UN University debuts online tool to help nations meet 2030 goal: Clean water, sanitation for all The self-reported struggle of many countries to design effective plans to achieve the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has inspired a new UN University online tool to guide such nations along a 6-step path towards the critical SDG 6: clean water and sanitation for all. The SDG Policy Support System (SDG-PSS, http://sdgpss. net/ en/ ) was launched Friday March 22, World Water Day, in English (with French and Spanish versions soon to follow) on the website of UNU's Canadian-based Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH). It draws on extensive research into a universal recipe for accelerating SDG-6 progress. It has been created by UNU-INWEH, the United Nations Office for Sustainable Development (UNOSD), the Korea Environment Corporation (K-eco), the Ministry of Environment, Republic of Korea, and national institutions from Costa Rica, Ghana, Pakistan, and Tunisia -- five partner countries in the system's development in 2017-2018. "Water problems constitute a crisis today in an increasing number of countries," says UNU-INWEH Director Vladimir Smakhtin. "Around 1.5 to 2 billion people currently live in areas of physical water scarcity, where water resources are insufficient to meet water demands, at least during part of the year. Around half a billion people experience water scarcity year-round. And there has been more than 50% drop in globally available freshwater per capita since 1960." "Implementing SDG 6, the 'water goal,' brings immense development, economic and health benefits and can unlock long-term funding," he says. "All too often, however, faced with competing goals and limited budgets, water-related development falls behind other priorities, and yet water is arguably the development issue that touches the largest number of people."? Says Dr. Jong-Soo Yoon, Head of UNOSD: "We hope that by sharing knowledge and training people in a proven system, more nations can effectively assess their situations and replace gaps and weaknesses with workable policies, frameworks and action plans. This will ultimately contribute to reducing water scarcity and pollution, mitigating disasters, and halt the ongoing degradation of water-dependent ecosystems."? Free to use by anyone, and explained in an online training tutorial, the system and tools are built for water-focused professionals, practitioners, and policy makers interested in systematically producing reliable, comprehensive, policy-relevant evidence of the ever-shifting situation relative to the eight SDG 6 targets, and their 11 monitoring indicators. The system helps to assemble existing national data and translate it into the evidence needed to assess and monitor progress against SDG6. It also produces easily-referenced summaries to expose key gaps and strengths in the following six critical components of successful SDG implementation, which were identified through consultations with the project's partner countries. Three of the components relate to capabilities; three to sustainability: Capacity. Countries must have the ability to obtain, strengthen and maintain the capability to set and achieve their own development objectives. Policy and institutional strength. Horizontal and vertical policy coherence, and the ability of institutions to make evidence-based decisions and build, implement and enforce inter-related policies Finance. Countries must define the costs and benefits of achieving each SDG 6 target, and align national finances with SDG targets Gender mainstreaming. Country policies must address women's specific water-related needs and empower women to participate at all levels of water management, including in decision-making and policy implementation, in ways defined by them Disaster risk reduction and resilience mainstreaming. Countries must have robust mechanisms to anticipate and reduce water-related disaster risk to protect communities; to assist communities to recover from water-related disasters; and to protect infrastructure and other water assets from hazard impacts Governance integrity. Countries must end corruption and maintain integrity and transparent practices across water policies, institutions and governance frameworks for greater accountability and trust in decision-making Says Manzoor Qadir, UNU-INWEH Assistant Director: "An effective, sustainable path to SDG 6 depends on the ability to assess strengths and weaknesses and track changes and progress for these components, and on the collaboration of all concerned government institutions, expert groups and civil society." 6-step path to SDG 6 1. Inventory current national data and knowledge This is best done as a collaborative exercise including scientists, experts, policy-makers and decision-makers. Finding data may be the task of scientists and experts but selecting which data to adopt must cross the science-policy divide. 2. Create a single, authoritative evidence base Data and knowledge must be translated into evidence that is useful and relevant for its varied users. It is critical to create only one national evidence base for SDG 6, and to include only evidence that is validated and agreed on by all stakeholders - experts, scientists, policy-makers and decision-makers. This authoritative evidence base will then become the foundation for national discourse and decision making. 3. Use the evidence base to evaluate the current enabling environment for SDG 6, reporting gaps and strengths The evidence base can be used to evaluate the current enabling environment against each target of SDG 6. 4. Make a plan, involve all stakeholders, to address weaknesses and build on strengths Once the enabling environment has been measured, it can be managed. Collaboration across multiple sectors and with multiple levels of government is vital. Collaboration means that all key stakeholders are involved in decision processes and are working to the same priorities under relevant national development plans. At this stage, international expertise and support can be useful to support the progress of the national plan. Support from lead UN agencies is available to both high- and low-income countries. 5. Implement the plan across all water-related sectors, focusing on maintaining policy coherence and collaborative action Putting the plan into action may require new mechanisms, the development of news skills and capacity, and the design of new policy and decision-making processes. To deliver SDG 6 success by 2030, these processes must be widely agreed by all and made a government priority. 6. Track progress in strengthening the six critical components and adjust plans as necessary over time. Collecting data, building evidence and analysing the six critical components is an ongoing process. Says Lisa Guppy, former senior researcher at UNU-INWEH whose work was instrumental in the system's creation: "The evidence base should be a dynamic resource, with an agreed review process to keep it relevant and up to date. A dynamic evidence base will show change achieved and send clear national messaging around SDG 6 progress - to government stakeholders, donors and international stakeholders." Says Ick-Hoon Choi, Vice-President of K-eco: "The Ministry of Environment, Republic of Korea, and K-eco have participated over the past two years as a project partner and host institution respectively. As one of the five pilot countries facing various water-related situations, the process of building the national data inventory and the evidence base to evaluate the current enabling environment against each target of SDG 6 has been a remarkable step forward for national stakeholders -- increase their understanding of SDG 6 and establishing a reliable channel of partnerships. As a leading environmental organization striving to achieve Korea's sustainable development, K-eco will continue to support building a knowledge base and platform for SDG 6 implementation." ### Related papers: UNU-INWEH inweh.unu.edu The UNU Institute for Water, Environment and Health is a member of the United Nations University family of organizations. It is the UN Think Tank on Water created by the UNU Governing Council in 1996. Its mission is to help resolve pressing water challenges of concern to the UN, its Member States and their people, through knowledge- based synthesis of existing bodies of scientific discovery; cutting edge targeted research that identifies emerging policy issues; application of on-the-ground scalable solutions based on credible research; and relevant and targeted public outreach. UNU-INWEH is supported by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada and hosted by McMaster University. This story has been published on: 2019-03-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. South Africa: Minister advises Premier on Limpopo broadband policy By Mish Molakeng Limpopo Premier Stanley Mathabatha on Friday met with Communications Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams to synchronize the provincial broadband rollout plan with national government on SA Connect broadband policy. The policy sets out targets and objectives which are based on four pillars -- Digital Readiness, Digital Future, Digital Development and Digital Opportunity. A key objective of SA Connect is that broadband must reach a critical mass of South Africans. We have travelled all the way from Polokwane to Tshwane to seek guidance from the Minister of Communication on how to go about implementing the provincial broadband plan in Limpopo province. The SA connect broadband policy comes from the Ministers department and they are best suited to advise us as a provincial government on what to do when rolling out the broadband policy, said Limpopo Premier Stanley Mathabatha SA Connect, first announced in 2013, is the national broadband project identified by government to meet the technology goals of the National Development Plan of creating an inclusive information society. The meeting today was just a start, it was a good meeting and necessary to avoid duplication and wastage of scarce financial resources; and to assist with SA Connect aspirations of delivering broadband access to all citizens. We cannot operate in silos, all three spheres National, Provincial, and Local government need to work together in driving the implementation of SA connect broadband policy, said Ndabeni-Abrahams. The next step now is for the provincial heads of the department to closely work with the Director General from the Department of Communication to establish and strengthen the provincial broadband steering committees. The Minister requested the cooperation of the provincial and local government in promoting the uptake of broadband. She said that while there might be a roll out of broadband, if people were not ready to use broadband to change their lives for the better, the objective of the program would not have been achieved. There was a need to empower SMMEs and have them participate on e-commerce platforms, the Minister said. Broadband Infraco, a state owned entity that is responsible for the ICT infrastructure deployment, Sentech, became the provider of microwave and satellite capacity, and the Universal Service and Access Agency of SA is contributing in some priority areas. The State IT Agency provides the applications. Due to the magnitude of the project, government decided it should be implemented in two phases. The first phase focuses on connecting all schools, health facilities, government offices, Thusong Centres and post offices in eight rural district municipalities to broadband services. SA Connect aims to deliver 100% broadband connectivity to government facilities by 2020. It is also expected to deliver broadband access to 90% of the country's population by 2020 and 100% by 2030 We will be meeting other provinces to assist in synchronizing the broadband plan to ensure that roles are not being duplicated, added Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-03-23. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Cardinal Ricardo Ezzati as archbishop of Santiago, the highest-ranking member of the Catholic Church in Chile, who has been caught up in the countrys sex abuse scandal. The decision to accept Ezzatis resignation, announced in a Vatican statement on Saturday, comes at a time of sustained criticism of the Churchs response to a decades-long sexual abuse crisis. Victims of sexual abuse by clergymen say a top-level conference at the Vatican last month failed to come up with concrete measures to tackle the issue. On March 13 an Australian court sentenced former Vatican treasurer Cardinal George Pell to six years in prison for sexually abusing two choir boys in Melbourne - the most senior Catholic to be convicted for child sex offences. Pell is appealing. Ezzati, 77, faces multiple charges of cover up, including some relating to the case of Oscar Munoz, a former top aide to the Santiago Archbishopric, who is facing trial on charges he abused and raped at least five children. He denies wrongdoing. In October, Ezzati exercised his right to remain silent after being summoned for questioning by a state prosecutor over the allegations. His resignation brought to eight the number of bishops who have stepped down since all of the countrys 34 bishops offered their resignations en masse during an emergency meeting with the pope last May over allegations of a cover-up. The May meeting was held after Vatican investigators produced a 2,300-page report alleging that senior Church officials in Chile had failed to act on abuse claims and in some cases hid them. Despite his resignation as archbishop of the Chilean capital, Ezzati will keep his title of cardinal. Until he turns 80, he also will be eligible to enter a conclave to elect a new pope after Francis death or resignation. The Vatican said the pope had named Bishop Celestino Aos Braco of the Chilean city of Copiapo, as apostolic administrator to run the Santiago archdiocese until a new archbishop is named. Apart from the eight active bishops who have resigned in Chile, last year Francis defrocked two other Chilean bishops who had been accused of molesting children. The pope also defrocked Father Fernando Karadima, an 88-year-old Chilean priest who was accused of sexually abusing teenage boys over many years and who was at the center of the Chilean abuse scandal. Chilean civil justice has investigated about 120 allegations of sexual abuse or cover-ups involving 167 Church officials or workers. On Monday, Cardinal Philippe Barbarin, the French Roman Catholic archbishop of Lyon, who a French court convicted of failing to report sexual abuse charges, offered his resignation to the pope, but Francis turned it down. Church authorities in Poland last week issued a study showing that almost 400 children had been sexually abused by clergy between 1990 and 2018. Search Keywords: Short link: 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. Beans from Balangoda View(s): It was a field research in Balangoda area carried out by a team of researchers and assisting students. One of the researchers, Chandini and her two assistants were waiting to interview a farmer. It was their first interview planned in the early morning hours of that day. The farmer who had a piece of cloth around the head covering his nose and mouth, was spraying pesticides to his early morning harvest of beans before it was loaded for transporting to the wholesale market. The visitors stayed away from the pesticides-spraying vicinity, also covering their nose and mouth with saree corners and handkerchiefs. After finishing the pesticides-spraying, the farmer removed his cloth mask, came closer and, gave a warm welcome to the team. Chandini asked: Beans are just plucked from the farm and, about to be taken to the market. Why does it need pesticides? The farmer answered: Madam, if there is just one worm in a bean, even a tiny one, then by tomorrow or day after my whole bean stock is destroyed; I will fall down from the pan to the fire. I have borrowed from the wholesale buyer in the Manning Market, and hope to get rid of my loans by selling this harvest to him. He continued: Besides that, with this spray even after a week these vegetables will look so fresh as if they are just plucked from the farm and brought to the market. Poisonous food Chandini said: But you are feeding poison to people, arent you? He answered: Yes madam, I know. All those diseases that Colombo people are suffering nowadays are just because of eating these poisonous vegetables. But, what can we do? After seeing some children playing a little far away, Chandini asked again: How do you feed your own children with this poison? He replied: Oh no madam, we dont eat these things. He stretched his hand pointing to a small plot of farm a faraway which was covered well with coconut branches. For us and our children, we grow them separately! Who should be blamed? The message of the above story is, however, not an uncommon or unusual one. Everyone knows and talks about agrochemical contents of the agricultural produce they buy and eat, perhaps excessively beyond the prescribed quantities. The question is whom to blame and how to stop? If we try to answer the question, we may find that at least there are three parties to be blamed for: Farmers, consumers and the Government. Let us examine one by one and, then see if there is a solution that we can suggest. Farmers Someone might argue that why on earth should farmers behave in such a cruel manner, feeding the nation with poisonous food just for money; they must be sued for this criminal act. However, the farmer in the above incident already explains why he has to make use of agrochemicals in such a manner. It is very much related to his livelihood; he wanted to get the maximum monetary gain on the one hand and to avoid any negative repercussions of market risk on the other hand. His main concern is about his short-term risk-free monetary gain so that he can pay off his debt. Consumers Another argument is that if consumers already know what they consume, why not they refuse to buy agricultural produce that contained agrochemicals. Consumer resistance is the most effective movement against the use of agrochemicals. Even if the consumers have some knowledge about the agricultural produce with harmful agrochemicals, they simply dont remember it at the point spending for them. Their focus is on the price rather than quality an inevitable feature of the poverty markets in developing countries. They are also conscious more about their short-term monetary gains than about the long-term health hazards. In urban supermarkets there is an organic product corner. This is exactly a rational market response to the widespread non-organic products. Naturally, the organic agricultural produce is for the high-income and health-conscious consumers so that the low yield and the high price premium keep average consumers away from the organic products. Average consumers are, after all left with no option other than buying poisonous products. Government We can also ask the Government to adopt tough measures to stop agrochemicals. In fact, we can argue that it is the government which has the legitimate responsibility about the safety of the citizens and it is the citizens who have elected the representatives for the government. But it might be interesting to find that, on the contrary it is also the Government which supplies agrochemicals at a subsidised price to the farmers, while showing its concern about food safety to the consumers. While the supply of subsidised agrochemicals keeps the farmers cost of production low, it encourages the farmers to use them excessively even beyond the accepted norms. Overuse of agrochemicals China is, perhaps, one of the largest agrochemical users in the world; it alone uses 30 per cent of the worlds fertilizers and pesticides just on 9 per cent of the worlds crop land. A study at the University of Melbourne has found that it is because China has the worlds most, smaller farm plots and smaller farms tend to overuse agrochemicals. Out of 220 million farm households, the estimated average farm size per household in China is 1.5 acres (or 0.6 hectares), which is less than half of the average farm size in neighbouring Japan and South Korea the two other countries which also have smaller farms. However, it should be noted that the average farm size in China varies vastly among the provinces. Towards the more developed eastern coastal areas farm size becomes much smaller and towards the hinterland it is relatively bigger. In the US the average farm size is more than 450 acres, while in Europe it varies between 45 170 acres in different countries. If you wish to compare the average farm size in Sri Lanka with countries mentioned above, it is little more than 1 acre and, therefore even less than the average farm size in China. There are 3.3 million small farm holdings in Sri Lanka. If smaller farms tend to overuse agrochemicals more than the larger farms, then it applies even more to the Sri Lankan farms than to Chinese farms. Too many, doing too little Now we have a question to answer: Why do smaller farms tend to overuse agrochemicals, as the case may be in our opening story? It is because the farm size is too small to increase productivity and to introduce new technology. By implication, farmer income remains too low so that the farmers attempt to maximise the yield with excessive use of agrochemicals. The main economic issue in Sri Lankan agriculture is that too many people produce too little. As a result, naturally and rationally there is tendency to overuse agrochemicals to increase yield and income. And the government too supports that attempt with subsidised prices for agrochemicals. Farm fragmentation By the way, there is another problem: While the average farm size in most of the countries has increased over time, in Sri Lanka it has been declining further! As people move away from the agriculture sector, finding occupations in non-agriculture sectors in urban areas, farms get more and more consolidated and become larger. But in Sri Lanka, what we have seen is that farms get fragmented into smaller units from generation to generation, because they have been divided among the children. This means that farm production and productivity become more and more uneconomical. You might ask the question, what then is the solution. The solution is not only within agriculture, but also outside agriculture. In a nutshell, it has much to do with long-term policies that allow farm consolidation alone with non-agricultural development. (The writer is a Professor of Economics at the University of Colombo and can be reached at sirimal@econ.cmb.ac.lk) SEC strengthens Investigations Division, takes on offenders By Duruthu Edirimuni Chandrasekera View(s): View(s): The new chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission [SEC] has successfully faced the challenge of capacity building at the institution and actually taken on certain offenders. Ranel Wijesinha has managed to beef up the Investigations Division within six weeks of becoming the chairman. Having kept a relatively low profile, this is the first occasion since taking office that he has spoken to the media, on investigation matters. I have been intensely focused on building the inside before battling the outside, while focusing in parallel on capital market development, he told the Business Times in an interview. SEC in the past nearly four years has got a lot of flak for not completing or re-starting investigations especially against the stock market mafia. The worst manipulations of the stock market including pump and dump of stocks by high net worth investors were during 2010 to 2012 and then SEC Chairperson Indrani Sugathadasa resigned from her post under pressure in December 2011. Then Thilak Karunaratne was appointed by then President Mahinda Rajapaksa but less than a year later he was asked to step down by Mr. Rajapaksa. In 2015 when Mr. Karunaratne was reappointed, they were shaken up but nothing happened. Also the SEC had a capacity issue. Having been a Commissioner from 2015-early 2018, during the time of the immediate preceding Chairman, I frequently questioned at monthly commission meetings as to the reasons for the apparent delays in investigations and my concerns about the absence of outcomes, and having known the institution and many of its good people, for decades, I resurfaced my concerns. The investigations divisions head count which previously averaged three to six was expanded to 15. Many experienced chartered accountants and lawyers were mainly transferred out of divisions such as the Supervision Division and the Corporate Affairs Division into the Investigations Division, Mr. Wijesinha explained. We have also begun a more substantive dialogue with the Attorney Generals Department and had discussions on enhancing what I term investigation and litigation strategy. He had experienced a culture of suspicion between and among a few of the SEC people when he took office. Certain persons were perceived to be representatives of the previous regime or supporters of the previous regime or representatives of what is termed the market mafia. Some were even sidelined. That era of favourites, or being suspected, sidelined, transferred, or made dormant, is now over, he said stressing that hes neither green, nor blue, nor red nor saffron without personal agenda, no passion to hold public office, no private vested interest or personal interest to make private profit. He added that on and off site supervision of brokers, has been substantially strengthened. Over the recent months several show cause letters and notices of action have been served on market participants.We have a warm and mutually respectful dialogue with the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) and all stakeholders, Mr. Wijesinha added. The Supervision Division had many pending complaints against brokers and margin providers and some complaints initially made to the CSE dated back to 2015. These complainants, recognising that there was a new administration at the SEC, spoke to, met with me and submitted written complaints direct to the Chairmans Office. We established a Complaints Review Committee as provided for in the SEC Act but not operationalised for almost four years and resourced it with senior commissioners who are experienced accountants and lawyers, Mr. Wijesinha said. The Director Investigations position has been vacant for a number of years. We then drafted a very different advertisement and 15 people applied. However only a few were suitable and the selected candidate may be recruited, however for another division. This is a challenge. Until we fill this vacancy, the Director General is heading this position, Mr. Wijesinha added. SLT: From Rainbow Pages to SLT muve car rides By Bandula Sirimanna View(s): View(s): Turning Sri Lankas traditional taxi service upside down, Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT), through its digital subsidiary company the publisher of SLT Rainbow Pages is set to offer car ridesharing services. Sri Lanka Telecom Digital Info Services (Pvt) Ltd is now diversifying its business portfolio from the publishing of telephone directories to its latest addition of car pooling for the digital era using a mobile app developed by an Australian IT company, SLT sources revealed. This new passenger and destination ridesharing service named SLT muve will be launched soon. It would provide transport services to one or three passengers at a time depending on the seating capacity of the vehicle. This innovative mobile app will help customers looking for fast and easy transport service to connect with a well-disciplined and company trained driver who is heading in the same direction that they want to travel, a senior SLT Digital Info Services official explained. Payment for the car ride could be made using credit or debit cards or in cash, he said adding that all drivers registered with the SLT Digital Info Services are independent contractors but not employees of the company. Car pooling (car-sharing, ride-sharing and lift-sharing) is the sharing of car journeys enabling more than one person to travel in a car. The company will pre-compute the fare subjected to the vehicle and the distance of the total trip. It will charge 10 per cent from each completed ride as a service charge from the driver. The official noted that they plan to deploy around 200 SLT vehicles in this venture during its initial stages. The service is fully secure and will be comfortable for the female passengers especially, he said adding that it also provides a Ladies Only option to restrict ride-sharing only for female passengers. After storm over UNHRC resolution, Wilpattu clearance; Karus honour brings calm By Sandun Jayawardana View(s): View(s): The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), whose support is crucial for the survival of the United National Front (UNF) Government, delivered a blunt warning in Parliament this week, over what it claimed were attempts to backtrack from setting up a hybrid judicial mechanism consisting of foreign judges to probe alleged war crimes and human rights violations. Speaking on Friday (22), a day after Sri Lanka co-sponsored the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Resolution 40/L.1 in Geneva, TNA MP and Party Spokesman M.A. Sumanthiran warned that the Tamil people will be left with no alternative but to seek an entirely foreign judicial mechanism, if the Government fails to honour its commitments to the international community to set up a hybrid court. The foreign judicial mechanism might be the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague or any other international tribunal, he observed. The TNAs frustration at the Governments apparent backtracking on earlier commitments was evident in Mr Sumanthirans speech, where he pointed out that this was the third time that Sri Lanka had co-sponsored a resolution at UNHRC. The latest resolution reiterates Sri Lankas commitment to adhere to commitments Resolution 30/1 of 2015. Accordingly, as per Resolution 30/1, Sri Lanka had again committed to set up a judicial mechanism which includes foreign judges, defence lawyers, authorised prosecutors and investigators, he added. It is false to say otherwise. This is an authoritative text. There can be no other interpretation to this. In his speech to the UNHRC in Geneva earlier in the week, Foreign Minister Thilak Marapana had stated that appointing non-citizen judges to function in the Sri Lankan judicial mechanism was not possible without an amendment to the Constitution by two thirds of MPs voting in favour and also the approval of the people at a Referendum. Mr Sumanthiran however, strongly disputed this assertion. If that was so, this resolution could not have been signed by Sri Lanka, he pointed out. The warning, while indicating a hardening of the TNAs stance, is unlikely to affect its support for the Governments Budget. The vote on the Third Reading is scheduled to be held on April 5. A defeat there would see the collapse of the UNF Government. A majority of TNA MPs led by its leader R. Sampanthan voted in favour of the Budget during the vote on the Second Reading on March 12. The alleged continued clearing of lands inside forest reserves bordering Wilpattu National Park, which has again gained national attention this past week, was also raised in Parliament, where Opposition MPs questioned Minister of Industry and Commerce, Resettlement of Protracted Displaced Persons and Co-operative Development Minister Rishad Bathiudeen over his alleged role in the destruction. Mr Bathiudeen, who has repeatedly come under flak in recent years over the Wilpattu issue, again pushed back strongly, claiming that the latest allegations had resurfaced just after he questioned the viability of the Aruwakkalu Sanitary Landfill Project in Puttalam. He further claimed that no lands had been released for resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) since 2012, adding that the current Government had not released one inch of land for this purpose. The Government was quick to palm off the blame on the issue to the Rajapaksa Government and former Minister Basil Rajapaksa, who had headed the Presidential Task Force under whose recommendation more than 2500 acres of forest lands were controversially released, allegedly without any consultation with relevant stakeholders. Leader of the House Lakshman Kiriella stated that the Government was ready to grant a debate on the issue at a later date. The negative ways in which myths are shaping the lives of people and the need to promote science to counter such negative myths was emphasized in Parliament during the debate on the Expenditure Heads on the Non Cabinet Ministry of Science, Technology and Research and the Non Cabinet Ministry of Digital Infrastructure and Information Technology. Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) MP Bimal Rathnayaka recounted a story he had heard about a woman in Kilinochchi, who took out Rs 50,000 as a loan from a microfinance company and used Rs 35, 000 of the money to purchase a lucky charm for her son. He pointed out that some principals of schools were also taking steps to ensure that students dont sign their GCE Ordinary Level exam admission papers during the inauspicious time (Raahu Kaalaya). School officials have no right to propagate myths regarding official policy in this manner, he stressed, urging the Government to ensure that myths are not promoted at institutional level and to draft Government policy only based on science. During the Expenditure Head debate on the Ministry of Primary Industries and Social Empowerment, United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA) MP Ranjith de Zoysa stated that the Governments proposal to absorb a further 600,000 families as Samurdhi beneficiaries destroys its own argument that poverty has reduced under its term. If anything, it proves that poverty has increased during the past four years, he quipped. Meanwhile, both the Government and the Opposition came together this week to pay tribute and offer congratulations to Speaker Karu Jayasuriya after he was conferred the Shashana Keerthi Sri Deshabhimani award by the Malwatte Chapter. The award is the highest honour the Malwatte Chapter confers on a layperson for services rendered to the Buddha Sasana and the nation. The tributes, which included those from Leader of the House Lakshman Kiriella and Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa, marked an all too rare display of unity in a Parliament still feeling the effects of last years crippling constitutional crisis. Yesterday (23) was the 9th day of 19 days allotted for the Committee Stage debate of the Budget. The Committee Stage debate will continue until April 5, with a final vote on the Third Reading to be taken on the same evening. SLFP-SLPP common alliance in the balance President Sirisena reveals that World Bank, IMF and Millennium Challenges Corporation suspended aid during political turmoil last year UNP Working Committee ignores Minister Navin Dissanayakes call for change in presidential election laws Sirisena and Rajapaksa in one-on-one talks Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa will be the candidate for the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) and its opposition allies at this years presidential election, the Sunday Times is able to confirm today. It has also been confirmed that he submitted an application through the United States Embassy in Colombo on March 6 to renounce his US citizenship. He is due to travel to Los Angeles next week to attend a wedding. He will seize that opportunity to meet authorities there to expedite his request. He has already been told that the process would take little over a month or more. Gotabayas Rajapaksas nomination has received the endorsement of both SLPP and Joint Opposition leaders. During a discussion among SLPP and JO leaders, a question was raised on who would convey the decision to President Maithripala Sirisena. I will go and explain it to him, declared Vasudeva Nanayakkara, the leader of Democratic Left Front (DLF) and MP from the Ratnapura District. However, Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa said Nanayakkara should not do so. He said it would only be proper if he (Mahinda Rajapaksa) conveyed it to the President. After all, he pointed out, there has been a dialogue between him and President Sirisena leading to his being named Prime Minister in October, last year. However, that would have to be done after some time. An Opposition source privy to the developments said it may be only in May or June. It allows time for the Opposition to be absolutely sure Gotabaya Rajapaksas renunciation of his US citizenship is formally confirmed, the source said. Yet, the news had already reached President Sirisena. Barely hours after his morning arrival by Emirates flight EK 652 in Colombo last Sunday, United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA) General Secretary Mahinda Amaraweera and UPFA Gampaha District Parliamentarian Lasantha Alagiyawanna sought a hurried meeting. There, the duo told him that Gotabaya Rajapaksa would be the nominee of the SLPP and its allies. Even Rajapaksa family members, they said, had given their blessings to the candidature. The news came as a shock to Sirisena. His immediate reaction was a query on why should the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) seek a common alliance with the SLPP if that was the case. He later told a meeting of SLFP parliamentarians that they should organise a May Day rally with a large turnout to demonstrate their political strength. The venue selected for this event is the Miriswatte grounds in Gampaha. Sirisena won this district by just over 5,000 votes at the presidential election. At this discussion with SLFP MPs, party General Secretary Dayasiri Jayasekera declared, This is our last chance. We must show our strength. Sirisena cut him short and declared, This is the beginning of a new, strong SLFP. The duos meeting came just ahead of President Sirisena making a trip by road to Kurunegala. Yet, the concerns were so heavy that President Sirisena sought a one-on-one meeting with Mahinda Rajapaksa. Interesting enough that was last Monday when Sirisena had to meet Rajapaksa on three different occasions first at the launch of an Action Plan against bribery and corruption by the Commission to Investigate Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). They are more in the news for celebrating action plans than for stepping up offensives against high-level bribery and corruption. Second was at a wedding in the forenoon and then the third, early in the night at the Presidents official residence at Mahagamsekera Mawatha. Both Sirisena and Rajapaksa had a near 40-minute meeting that night. Most of the details of what they discussed are not known. However, the Sunday Times has been able to piece together a brief account from what the two leaders have been talking to their own confidants. President Sirisena took great pains to explain to Mahinda Rajapaksa his recent actions and tried to make clear he was not leaning towards the United National Party (UNP) leadership a fact which was reported even in these columns just last week. Besides the talks, there was commitment too for his winning UNF support for the votes of the Presidency at the second reading of the budget, as revealed last week in this column. He had even nominated to the Constitutional Council a different person (contrary to the promise he gave the SLPP) for the post of President of the Court of Appeal. However, when the CC met on Monday, they found he had written to it not to make that appointment and he would send in another recommendation. The CC put off the meeting. The CC met yesterday and unanimously accepted Yasantha Kodagoda, Additional Solicitor General, as the President of the Court of Appeal. He had thus withdrawn the earlier nominee Deepali Wijesundera, who was also backed by the SLPP and its allies. SLFP stance on budget President Sirisena had said that the day before his departure to Kenya, he had asked SLFP MPs to vote in favour of the second reading of the budget. He had explained that he had to ask them to do so. Otherwise he would lose allocation of funds to the Presidency and ministries coming under it. Former Minister Tilak Siyambalapitiya, backed up Sirisenas claim at a news conference on Tuesday. He said, Our decision to vote at the second reading of the budget was taken to ensure the vote on the Presidents office was not defeated on the following day. There are many allocations for the Presidents office. Even though we have different views, the party makes a decision and we work accordingly. There are questions that beg answers. Why was the SLPP, albeit the JO, told the SLFP would vote against? Does this mean they would vote for the final budget too? Yet, there were contradictions, serious ones at that. A source close to the Presidency claimed, President Sirisena did not ask MPs to vote for the second reading of the budget. Strange indeed. The source went on to say, The SLFP discussed and took a neutral stand due to ongoing negotiations with the SLPP. We discussed the budget in our meetings. There were some good proposals. We are studying the budget closely. The ultimate test for the budget is passing it at the third reading. We will take a decision after deliberation. These remarks only make matters much worse for the SLFP. Rajapaksa had asked Sirisena why he publicly criticised Singapore over the return of Arjuna Mahendran, the Central Banks former Governor, who is most wanted in Sri Lanka over the bond scandal. He had explained that he had personally made a request from Singapore Prime Minister Li Hsieng Loong and they were delaying it without reason. There are no known instances of Singapore extraditing one of its nationals to face charges in a foreign court unless the person concerned is indicted in a court of law. The President had only handed over a dossier with details of investigations. He had, thereafter, heavily criticised Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe over his actions on a number of matters. Both Sirisena and Rajapaksa, one source said, had avoided any discussion of the upcoming presidential election or the question of candidates. Thus, there was no mention of Gotabaya Rajapaksas candidature. Yet, a source close to Sirisena said Rajapaksa did give an indication. This, however, cannot be confirmed. Issues over UNHRC resolution This development has once again rekindled speculation that President Sirisena may allow SLFP parliamentarians to take portfolios in the UNF government a move that would signal the birth of a National Democratic Alliance. Another subject of discussion was the adoption of a resolution on Sri Lanka at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Co-sponsored by Sri Lanka, it was moved by the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Macedonia and Montenegro last Wednesday in Geneva. It was only the previous Saturday, (March 16), that the envoys in Colombo for Britain, Canada and Germany met Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana to ask whether Sri Lanka would back out of this second co-sponsorship. He explained that Colombo would not renege on the assurance that had been already given by the UNF government. This new resolution gives Sri Lanka two years to implement outstanding matters from the previous 2015 resolution (30/1). That includes a call to implement fully the measures in the previous resolution including the probe into alleged war crimes by troops and Tiger guerrillas through hybrid courts. That has been acknowledged in the first sponsorship and re-iterated in the second one. Last Sunday night, President Sirisena chaired a meeting with the Sri Lanka delegation to the UNHRC. He was provided a Sinhala translation of the English text of the speech that was to be delivered on Wednesday. He made changes and it was accepted by the UNF leadership. Foreign Minister Marapana delivered it. The same evening Marapana and his delegation had a meeting in Geneva with Human Rights High Commissioner Michele Bachelot Jeria. President Sirisena had also explained to Rajapaksa that the decision to co-sponsor the latest resolution, like the previous one, had been made by Premier Wickremesinghe. He had in fact requested Mano Tittawela, a member of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (as well as an Advisor to the Ministry of Finance) to write directly to the Sri Lankas Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva to convey the decision on behalf of the Premier. Neither the Foreign Ministry nor the Presidential Secretariat was aware. It turned out that the letter had been sent during the 51-day period when Sirisena had foisted Mahinda Rajapaksa as Premier and later dissolved parliament. The Supreme Court later that the dissolution was unconstitutional. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, former UNF Justice Minister and now a legal consultant to Sirisena, read out parts of Tittawalas letter in Parliament. He was challenging the wisdom of why that letter had been sent. President Sirisena urged Rajapaksa to stay behind for dinner an invitation that was politely declined on grounds that he had another engagement. It was now time for a Joint Opposition delegation led by its Parliamentary Group leader Dinesh Gunawardena to meet Sirisena. Others were G.L. Peiris (nominal leader of SLPP), Vasudeva Nanayakkara (DLF), former minister Susil Premajayantha, a Communist Party representative and one from the Lanka Sama Samaja Party LSSP). It was here that the President made some hitherto unknown revelations the repercussions arising out of his decision last October to sack Premier Wickremesinghe. The World Bank as well as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) froze funding for Sri Lanka. Funding from the United States Millennium Challenges Corporation, too, was suspended. It seemed a stroke of unexpected luck that came Sirisenas way. The Court of Appeal issued a stay order on the functioning of the Cabinet of Ministers, Ministers of state and deputy ministers. That averted more action and resultant damage. Lamenting that he wielded only fifty percent of the power (with the rest remaining in the hands of the UNF), President Sirisena said he had to move cautiously. This was why he chose not to withdraw the sponsorship of the resolution for the second time and invite international ire. His remarks, a JO source who did not wish to be identified, said reflected a two-fold approach one was bitter criticism of the UNF to dispel the feeling he was now cosying up to it. The other was to impress on the JO that he still supported it. In reality, he was in fact wooing both, sometimes tilting to one, or the other. The contradictions were truly apparent and we found it difficult to comprehend the rationale behind some of President Sirisena actions, said the source. An example, the source pointed out, was the parliamentary group meetings which both SLFP and JO members attended. On voting day (for the second reading of the budget), President Sirisena was absent at the meeting in the morning. However, it was decided that both sides would vote against the budget. Later that day, President Sirisena summoned only his SLFP MPs and told them to vote in favour. This led to MPs Dilan Perera and Lakshman Wasantha Perera being engaged in heated arguments with him. There were six others who voted against the second reading in Parliament defying him, the source said. This naturally caused concerns for the SLPP. When the meeting ended, President Sirisena invited those present to dinner. When they gathered in the dining area, there were whispers and muted laughter. Apita ada rey Janadipathi thuma Aaappa denava or the President is giving us hoppers tonight. The menu was indeed hoppers, egg hoppers and an assortment of curries including seeni sambol, lunu miris, chicken and fish curry. Hoppers, a Sri Lankan delicacy, assumed a political connotation after Sirisena attended a dinner hosted by the then President Rajapaksa. He ate hoppers there and the next day announced his candidature for the January 2015 presidential election. This earned a variety of sobriquets for Sirisena, all beginning with the word Aappa. Jayasekeras outburst Thus, it is with a cloud of doubt that the SLFP and the SLPP delegations met for their second round of talks for the formation of a common alliance (together with all Opposition parties). It was at the Opposition Leaders Office at Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha. Contrary to reports in sections of the media and websites, there was only a discussion on a 20-point note given by Dullas Allahapperuma to SLFP General Secretary Dayasiri Jayasekera. The note, widely discussed, was on policy with regard to different issues like health and education. Allahapperuma threw a challenge to Jayasekera if he and the SLFP were serious about forming a common alliance, he should refrain from making insulting accusations against the SLPP. He said he had once alluded to the SLPP and declared its MPs were fortunate. That was because of a letter that UPFA General Secretary Mahinda Amaraweera had written to Speaker of Parliament that they were still members of the UPFA. Otherwise, they would have been thrown out of Parliament, he had asserted. And just a day before the SLFP-SLPP meeting, Jayasekera had addressed a meeting in Kegalle. He had said at the meeting related to the re-organisation of the party that the biggest setback to the SLFP was the actions by the SLPP during the past one and a half years. As the SLPP came up, they also destroyed the SLFP. Do we work with destructive forces or do we try to build up the party? That is something we should understand. We can form any alliance in the future. But we should not be a tail to the SLPP or to the UNP. We have nothing against the SLPP, but we should understand that the background was created due to the presence of Mahinda Rajapaksa. With the end of Mahinda Rajapaksas era in politics, the SLPP will end, and its members will return to the SLFP. You can write it down that it will not be far away. The SLPP makes various critical statements, but I dont take note of that. I dont need to go behind worshiping them. If they have to defeat me in the Kurunegala district, they will do that in the future. An angry Allahapperuma asked Jayasekera why he was making such offensive remarks against the SLPP if his party was so keen on forming a common alliance with the SLPP and its partners. He said that the SLFP leadership had reneged on their own pledge to vote against the budget. Now, it was the SLPPs turn to see what the SLFP would do at the final voting on April 5. That was the main reason why the third round of talks has now been put off for April 10. If the SLFP votes for the budget, it would be saying that the budget is good, noted an SLPP leader. On the other hand, like us, if they vote against the budget, they will be in line with our thinking, he said. It is then that we will decide whether we should go ahead with a common alliance, said the senior SLPP leader who sought anonymity. They (the SLFP) cannot continue to please both sides (meaning the UNF and the SLPP) and claim that they are consistent in their policy, he said. The SLPP will remain transparent in its talks to obviate any criticism or blame being placed on us. We will make everything known to the people, he added. They (the SLFP) said they would have to consult President Sirisena before the next round (on April 10). We said we will also consult our own leadership on whether to proceed or not, the source added. More importantly, SLPP shot down efforts by Jayasekera to persuade his SLPP counterparts to have a joint news conference to project a positive picture that the talks were proceeding well. We really do not have much to talk about, said the same source. A notable absentee at the meeting was Basil Rajapaksa, the architect of the SLPP. Behind the scenes, he is busy preparing the partys election campaign. The latest is a programme titled A conversation with the village a programme where there will be Sub Committees at the village level merged with a National Committee made up of experts to ensure community-based policy making. This weeks political developments clearly highlight two significant outcomes for President Sirisena. One is the confirmation that the SLPP will not back his candidature at this years presidential election. That has become a certainty. Nevertheless, he has not given up the prospects of contesting on the SLFP ticket though the party is threatened with a split down the middle with some MPs going the UNF way and the others to the SLPP. Ironic enough, in addition to the six members who voted against the budget, two others (Dilan Perera and Lakshman Wasantha Perera) voiced strong opposition. Of the 17 SLFP MPs, does that mean that a total of eight are not sharing Sirisenas views over entering into an alliance with the SLPP and opposing the UNF? That leaves behind only nine with President Sirisena. S.B, Dissanayake spoke against the budget with his colleagues but absented himself from voting in Parliament. This has brought out further fissures within the SLFP. Angry SLPPers reject alliance The other is the Presidents ambitious project for a common alliance with the SLPP. It is no exaggeration that some of President Sirisenas own actions, supplemented by General Secretary Jayasekeras remarks, have incensed the SLPP leadership. So much so, some of them who earlier backed the SLFP entry into the common alliance, are now opposing it. That would naturally isolate President Sirisena politically. There are no prospects at all of his either becoming a common candidate with the support of the UNF or forming a common alliance. This is notwithstanding the issues the United National Party (UNP)-led UNF may face over a presidential candidate. Yet, President Sirisena remains emboldened and hopeful. Asked whether there were prospects of an early presidential election, the source close to the Presidency said; People elected him for a period of six years. He reduced it to five years through the 19A. There is no development that compels him to advance the date. There is, however, a need to hold Provincial Council elections without delay. On the other hand, Gotabaya Rajapaksa receiving the blessing of members of his extended family is an interesting episode by itself. The man behind the move is Chamal Rajapaksa, a former Speaker of Parliament. Contrary to an earlier report in these columns, Chamal arranged for a dinner on Friday (March 15) at the residence of his younger son Shamindra at Pelawatte in Battaramulla. It was not at the Opposition official Leaders residence at Wijerama Road. Those present were six males and two females. Two more females were absent: Mahinda Rajapaksa, Basil Rajapaksa, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Mr and Mrs Shashindra Rajapaksa (son and daughter in law of Chamal), Mr and Mrs Shamindra Rajapaksa (the hosts) and Namal Rajapaksa. Two sisters of the Rajapaksas were absent. One was away in Texas attending to the almsgiving of a brother whilst another was on a visit to the United States. This meeting appears to have been prompted by two main reasons: one was speculation that there were divisions within the Rajapaksa family over the nomination of Gotabaya Rajapaksa as the presidential candidate. Views were to be sought to ascertain whether anyone entertained apprehensions. The other was speculation that it was not Gotabaya but Basil Rajapaksa who would eventually be the candidate. It was noted that Mahinda Rajapaksa could not contest since the Constitution debarred a third term for the candidate. His son Namal also presently remains disqualified since he was under 35 years and is not eligible to become a candidate, that too under the Constitution. That left only Gotabaya and Basil, who were both eligible, but had to renounce their United States citizenship. Basil had declared he had no plans to contest and that left only Gotabaya. It was noted that both the SLPP and their allies in the Joint Opposition had empowered the SLPP de facto leader Mahinda Rajapaksa to nominate a candidate of his choice and he had declared that he would pick a person who could win. It is in that backdrop that the family, after a somewhat lengthy discussion, gave their blessings to the candidature of Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The family members, who met over a vegetarian dinner of thosai, sambar and coconut chutneys of many kinds, also weighed factors in favour of Gotabaya and those against him when they discussed the approach to an election campaign. It also emerged during their discussion that if he wins, Gotabaya would be President. At the parliamentary elections if Mahinda Rajapaksa wins, he will become the Prime Minister. In answer to claims in some quarters that two brothers could not, or should not be President and Prime Minister, it was pointed out that there was no constitutional or legal barrier. Moreover, that would happen only after the voters gave their mandate, it was pointed out. As for himself, Gotabaya told the meeting that if there were any issue over his application to renounce US citizenship, he will be able to sort them out. The UNP-led UNF has not yet discussed the question of a presidential candidate formally, though the front runner is still Premier Wickremesinghe. At least one UNP Minister appears to be worried about the presidential candidature of Gotabaya Rajapaksa after making public references to him. At the UNPs Working Committee meeting on Thursday, Minister Navin Dissanayake who once left the UNP, lamented that there were no election laws to prohibit a foreign national, even if he has renounced his citizenship, from being debarred. He was suggesting that laws be introduced to empower the National Elections Commission (NEC) to reject the candidature of those who do not show proof of their renunciation. There were no takers. A senior Cabinet Minister who has held different party positions said we all know this situation. There is no reason for us to get scared over it. With a decision on Gotabaya Rajapaksa now in hand, the focus shifts to the UNF. The billion-dollar question is who it will choose as its presidential candidate. Or is it a foregone conclusion? Sri Lanka and Singapore in new koloppan View(s): When that rumbustious Weerawansa during the 2015 election campaign addressed the then opposition presidential candidate as aiyo Sirisena, one felt that the garrulous politician, hanging on to Mahinda Rajapaksas sataka, was being deliberately condescending and consciously insulting Maithripala Sirisena. It seemed that Weerawansa considered himself Zeus and sought to dismiss Sirisena with a shake of his coiffed head, not to mention his well-trimmed beard. So sure was the bearded one of a Mahinda victory that he appeared to have thought ridiculing Sirisena would not cost him even a devalued thousand rupee note. But, as years went by, the people who voted for Sirisena realised that their president was yet another political non-entity catapulted into power and trying to make a name for himself before he faded into history. So, more and more of the citizenry began using Weerawansas aiyo Sirisena, not because they liked Weerawansa more than they disliked Sirisena, but because Sirisena reneged on his promises and was travelling to every nook and corner of the globe, like an ancient Roman emperor touring his realm. As days passed and Sirisena became more and more exposed, even fellow columnists turned to the aiyo Sirisena form of address. That was not surprising, given the presidential predilection to say he did not know one thing or another or that nobody told him about some act performed by his government or that he read of it in the newspaper. Though he did not mention which newspaper, he would have warmed the cockles of publisher hearts and others who now knew that Sirisena gathered his news from the media and did not rely on his media division to brief him on happenings in his government. The trouble was that Sirisena thought he knew everything and acted as though he believed in his Ozymandian vision. In the last several month, he has cultivated a new morality culture which unfortunately does not sit well with his reflections and admiration for his presidential counterpart at the Malacanang Palace, who really does not mind what weapon he draws to eliminate citizens of his country who he perceives as functioning with criminal intent. So ,while Sirisena mounts his moral hobby-horse and canters around preaching the rule of law or what he knows about it his more recent friend rules with less consideration for the law. No wonder the people began to distrust a man who preaches like a committed Buddhist and at the same time is ready to engage in practices that contradict his preaching like hanging a few chaps now and then to harden his resolve and prove that he is a man of his word. His bombastic preaching and seeming knowledge of all things appear to have missed out on Hamlets advice to Horatio: There are more things in heaven and earth Horatio than are dreamt of in your philosophy. Had he read and imbibed the meaning of those worthy words, he would have realised that he does not rule the world though he traverses the globe with much alacrity and great expense, coughed up by Sri Lankan taxpayers. There is an old saying about biting more than one could chew. Had his education included such philosophical tidbits, he might have avoided running into Singapores code of ethics and administrative rules and regulations. We do not have to reiterate that in Sri Lanka it is a well-practised dogma that leaders and their friends influence, pressure and threaten officials and law enforcement authorities to drop or delay investigations and legal or other forms of action against their friends and relatives suspected indeed guilty of illegal activities. This is a country with much crime but little punishment. Perhaps, a Sri Lankan president or other leader might wave his magic wand and see that investigations are dropped and documents go missing, not to mention a witness or two hanging themselves in a police cell. Friends, Sri Lankans and countrymen, that does happen here and very much so. But if Sirisena thought that a word or two in Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loongs ear would be sufficient to have former Central Bank chief Arjuna Mahendran all shackled and returned to Sri Lanka in the first class, courtesy of Singapores national carrier, he should do some hard thinking. Despite his constant-travel to various countries, including Singapore, at least a couple of times last year, he had not learnt nor had he been advised that Singapore does not function the way corrupt politicians and governments do in Sri Lanka. Singapore diplomats and officials monitor newspapers and other media around the world. It is ready to respond to criticism of the city state within a day or two of any critical remarks. Had Sri Lanka learnt from such Singaporean practices, Sirisena might have avoided putting both of his feet in his mouth. I have experienced this swift comeback when Singapores envoy in Hong Kong, Mr See (Man Chee if I remember correctly) sent a reply to the editor in response to a comment I made in one of my columns about the then Singapore Prime Minister, Goh Chok Tong, telling voters of a particular constituency that they were unlikely to get a housing scheme if they voted for the rival candidate. We published envoy Sees letter with my response, in which I told Mr See that if he cannot see the point made he will not see at all. That ended that. But the fact is that tiny Singapore is so well organised administratively and diplomatically that it keeps its eyes and ears open to respond to criticisms of the country. That is how Singapores Foreign Ministry came to reply so quickly to Sirisenas charge that Singapore is not helping to have Mahendran returned to Sri Lanka. Sirisena claimed that the Singapore Government has not assisted us the way it should have. What Sirisena seemingly meant was that Singapore had not acted in the way he expected or wanted Singapore to react. Firstly, the people would like to know exactly what Sirisena told Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong when Sirisena says he spoke to the prime minister personally. One would have the Singaporean leader, thereafter, checking with the relevant agencies to ascertain the state of play, as it were. The question is whether Sri Lankas great leader checked with those in his government he still speaks to. Maybe Sirisena should widen his knot of advisers. The last lot did not fare too well after they seemed to have told the great leader that he could dissolve parliament as he thought fit and declare a date for elections. A full bench of the Supreme Court taught that bunch of upstarts a lesson, which, hopefully, Sirisena will have etched on his chest. Sirisena goes about saying that since he and his coalition government came to power the international community has been treating Sri Lanka well. If that is meant to be a boast, it is a hollow one. Without strengthening our relations with Asian nations, some of our leaders are going around alienating them. Scant wonder, the world does not know what the government is up to and remains confused. In parliament, last week, Opposition Whip Mahinda Amaraweera said that Sri Lanka had dispatched all necessary information which had been diplomatically communicated in writing to the relevant authorities in Singapore. So when Singapore says in an official statement that Sri Lanka had failed to provide documents necessary to support the extradition request, is it Sri Lankas position that Singapore is lying? If Sri Lanka has sent all the necessary documents and Sirisena keeps saying Singapore is reneging, the way Sirisena and his officials can step out of this morass is to name the documents that have been sent and produce some proof that Sri Lanka has sent the requirements. Meanwhile, has Sirisena asked the Dubai authorities for the return of Udayanga Weeratunga, alleged to be connected with the Russian MiG aircraft deal? If not why? And if so why is Sirisena not whispering in the Dubai Emirs ear for Weeratunga to be sent back, as he did with the Singapore leader? Has he pursued this case, and if not what is the secret? What Singapore will say in reply to Sri Lankas last response will be interesting. Or will Singapore ignore it all, leaving the Sri Lankan leaders to play with their new toys. After all, it might not be for long. The Karannagoda order and the Geneva spectacle View(s): Accountability in Sri Lanka was always about the working of the criminal law. And Justice was always about the clash of the non-equals with the more than equals. In that clash, seldom have the non-equals triumphed in this country, as bitter lessons of our legal history so persistently teach us. Refresher in institutional memory Those who are appalled at the recent ruling of the Supreme Court preventing the arrest of ex-Navy Chief Wasantha Karannagoda in connection with an ongoing investigation into the abductions of children for ransom while the parents of the children stood helpless in Court, may therefore be gently nudged towards a refresher course in institutional memory. As frequently reminded in these column spaces, meeting a constitutional challenge on separation of powers in asserting the Rule of Law and the primacy of the Constitution is one thing. Standing firm against cacophonous screeching in Court and outside, that national security trumps all, that military men are heroes who stand above the law, that those who saved the country must be protected at whatever cost and that anyone who dissents from this view is a traitor, is an entirely different matter altogether. That is a crucial distinction by and of itself. Never mind the fact that the brave men and women of this countrys military are disgraced collectively owing to the actions of a few or that the reputation of the service is besmirched due to the failure to properly wield the law against those who violate it. Technically, the prevention order by the Court is nothing very new. Earlier, a similar order had been issued in a different case, preventing the arrest of former Secretary Ministry of Defence Gotabhaya Rajapaksa now being touted as a Presidential candidate at the forthcoming elections. But in case, the order itself fades in consequence when measured against what Karannagodas counsel was permitted to say in open Court without rebuttal, including casting aspersions on fellow officers and disparaging the state law office to wit. Different strategies are needed In these instances, impassioned appeals to the Court to listen to the pleas of grieving mothers will not suffice by themselves. A different strategy is needed, part of which must be to desist from adulation of the Court itself. Correction of a wrong done by an unprecedented constitutional misadventure on the part of a sitting President and a former President last year is a judicial response limited to an extraordinary factual scenario. Indeed, the violation was so blatant that it would have been difficult to think of an alternative interpretation of the constitutional provisions. President Maithripala Sirisena played a risky political game at the egging of his legal advisors who had gambled on the United National Party and Speaker Karu Jayasuriya crumbling in the face of an audacious assault on constitutional propriety. That did not happen and the rest is history. But the law here in dispute was very clear (despite clumsily drafted provisions) and was bound to be upheld as such, if and when it went to the Court, which was indeed the case. The point however is that to stretch that outcome beyond its confines and engage in indulgent dialogues that hero worships the Court is both unwise and counter productive. This minimises the considerable effort needed to restore institutional strength in Sri Lankas judiciary, in regard to which more than one or two good judgements are needed. And here again, the strength of an institution cannot rest purely on the conscience of a particular Chief Justice, as fortunate as the nation may have been during that time. What was normal at the time Karannagoda was named as a suspect in an ongoing criminal investigation for possessing knowledge of the abduction, disappearance and subsequent killing of eleven Tamil, Sinhala and Muslim youths in and around Colombo more than a decade ago. To be clear, this was a racket driven at the highest levels of the security establishment with ransom demands from the family members of the abducted youngsters being the primary motive. The abductions spoke to the highest impunity that prevailed then. It was normal that blatant violations of the law could go unchecked. It was normal that the incidents be hushed up and grieving parents would be left to only appeal to the Gods for redress. It was normal that the police should turn a Nelsonian eye and that otherwise decent law abiding individuals should just shrug and turn away. As this country flirts with the return of those days, we should understand the enormity of what took place in front of us, as it were. During the last three years, incidents such as these have at least been brought to court, marking a difference from the past. But is that difference enough if the guilty goes unpunished? These are apt discussions in the backdrop of the 40th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) even as Sri Lanka affirms its strongest commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, in keeping with international human rights standards and Sri Lankas international obligations. The issue is not about Commissions and Offices looking into missing persons. We should not waste energy combating Ministers representing the State routinely prevaricating, obfuscating and lying at the UNHRC. Rather, single minded collective determination is called for in regard to documenting and discussing systemic and institutional failures shielding the more than equalsand bringing them to the court of public opinion so that courts of law in this country may awaken anew to their own onerous responsibilities. This is not only, I may add, in relation to injustice perpetuated against victims of Tamil ethnicity. A cursory look at reports of Commissions of Inquiry in the nineteen nineties setting out in painful detail, the protection of more than equal politicians, military men and policemen responsible for the torture, enforced disappearances and extra judicial executions of Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim civilians would establish this fact. That was under a different Government and in a different time. Yet the patterns of impunity remain largely the same, Rajapaksas or no Rajapaksas. Refraining from indulgent dialogues on the judiciary So this easy talk of restoration of judicial independence in Sri Lanka post December 2018 is to commit the same mistake made by some in early 2015 when Chief Justice Mohan Peiris was dismissed summarily from his post through presidential letter. The world was told that the Rajapaksas had departed and that, miraculously therefore, the institution of the judiciary had become independent again. At the time, this reminded me of the exuberant declaration of the Minister of Justice of Cambodia, when accepting a financial grant by the United Nations to bring judicial reforms in that country following the genocide of the PolPot era, said with one stroke of the pen, I shall make my countrys judges, independent. As tinged with deadly humour as both examples are, it must be said that the historical degeneration of the institution of the judiciary is not an evil that could be remedied so easily. At least now, we must refrain from indulgent dialogues that refuse to recognise this fact. No lessons learnt from Dubai snub View(s): It is about time someone counselled the President on matters of protocol when it comes to issues relating to foreign affairs and foreign policy. The President was never really groomed in foreign affairs during his political career. At most, he would attend a conference abroad as a Cabinet Minister, a practice he continues notwithstanding the fact that he is now a Head of State and Head of Government. He is not just a Cabinet Minister now; he is the President of the Republic. Last weeks photograph in the Political Column of this newspaper, and published elsewhere as well of him standing in the second row at a ministerial level conference in Kenya did not look good. Many years ago, when Prime Minister Dudley Senanayake attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in London and was asked to share a limousine with another leader from a small Commonwealth nation-state, he sent a message saying he was returning to Colombo if this was how a PM was treated. In more recent times, former President J.R. Jayewardene, who generally maintained decorum as Head of State, was accused of having an open house for just one Western ambassador and a high commissioner from a neighbouring country. There were Executive Presidents after him, though, who would attend embassy cocktail parties. This week, the President received a comeback snub from Singapore. Bad enough, the country was facing fearful odds from some Western nations at the UNHRC in Geneva. A mere spokesperson of the city-state responded to the Presidents public statement, expressing displeasure with the Prime Minister of Singapore for not following up on a request he had made for the extradition of the Central Banks disgraced former Governor , who is refusing to face trial here. The Singaporean spokesperson shot back saying the onus is on the Sri Lankan Government to provide the details required under Singaporean extradition laws. And in counter rebuttal, a spokesman MP for the President says all relevant documents have been given. Is anybody advising thea President on these matters, or is he not listening to advice? Whichever way, the President is getting compromised and looking more and more un-Presidential. In his early days in high office, some lawyers chasing after the alleged millions the former President Mahinda Rajapaksa had banked in Dubai, asked the incumbent President to write to his UAE counterpart for assistance in the matter. The answer was to stick to the legal procedures. Countries like the UAE and Singapore are trading nations, relying heavily on foreign remittances, and do not easily allow an erosion of investor confidence in their economies. In the Singapore case, no lessons were learnt from the rebuff from the UAE. The Geneva quagmire Compounding matters in the Presidents quest for a second term is the political corner he has boxed himself into. He is in an utterly awkward position, and so is the country. He is the Head of a Government in which the party he leads (SLFP) and is neither here (with the Government) nor there (with the Opposition). Caught in the cross-fire, his conduct on foreign policy is not entirely in sync with the rest of his (UNF) Government and consequently, the countrys approach at the on-going UNHRC sessions. The President has said that foreign policy ought to be his responsibility. In years gone by, it was the Head of Government, i.e. the Prime Minister who was Minister of Defence and External Affairs. That was until President Jayewardene bifurcated the ministry and appointed a separate Minster for Foreign Affairs. It was not that President Jayewardene did not intervene; Sri Lankas vote at the UN on the Falklands (Malvinas) issue where he overruled the Foreign Minister on behalf of the UK is a case in point. The UK has shown its gratitude by now co-sponsoring the Resolution against Sri Lanka at the UN in Geneva. So much for Thou friends thou hast; and their adoption tried. Grapple them unto thy soul with hoops of steel as Shakespeare famously wrote. But in the current situation, the UNP prevailed over the Presidents wish not to renew the co-sponsorship of Resolution 30/1 against Sri Lanka and the Joint Opposition jumped in to earn some brownie-points at home. The Rajapaksa-led SLPPs nominal leader issued a statement directly blaming the UNP and indirectly, the President, for co-sponsoring the resolution. One might suggest that the issue is not whether Sri Lanka should, or should not co-sponsor the resolution, but whether Sri Lanka should leave the UNHRC which the US, no less, referred to as a cesspool of political bias. For its part, the Government has shown some resistance in Geneva this time. It can be said that the Presidents input and the wider public disgust with the approach of the Diaspora-inspired West seems to have had some impact on the Governments position to reject calls for the setting up of an UNHRC office in Sri Lanka and the setting of deadlines to redress complicated socio-economic-political issues. No Government can allow a hybrid court with international judges. The UNHRC is a place where the numbers game is played out. That is why the US pulled out saying that there was a ganging up against Israel. Sri Lanka has no such Godfather State and mercifully so. That makes it more important to fine-tune its diplomacy and extend its reach beyond its shores. Some countries backed Sri Lanka in Geneva, some pussyfooted and some were on a crusade against this country behind a masked face of support. But when the powers-that-be cannot appoint an ambassador to an important station like Washington DC for more than two years, what can we expect in the State Department in terms of lobbying. The Government may have scored some points in Geneva by ensuring the new resolution 40/1 was passed without a vote giving the Government and future Governments two years grace to implement Res. 30/1 and for the Office of the UN High Commissioner to work in Sri Lanka only with the concurrence of the Government. No doubt, however, the process of reconciliation is slow and arduous. It was Peru, of all nations, that called, clearly by proxy, for a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Perus Shining Path movement is hardly comparable to the conflict this country faced with the LTTE. The Peruvian delegate, and others should go to South Africa where such a Commission served a degree of healing but where the undercurrents between black townships and the rest of the population are far worse than the tensions in Sri Lanka. Europe is facing Islamophobia and in the US an ugly tide of white nationalism is rearing up. It is time the West also took up Syria and Yemen, where human rights are in limbo because their armies and proxies are at war with terrorists. Kids World View(s): Environmental pollution As we all know, environmental pollution is the biggest issue which the whole world is facing as a challenge nowadays. The natural environment contains everything required for the survival, growth and development of living beings on earth. But we see that the technological development and unethical activities of humans has made the environment become more and more polluted. This happens due to the mixing of dangerous, unnatural materials into natural sources such as the water, air and soil which causes an imbalance in the eco-system. This leads to various health hazards for humans and animals. This is all because of the industrialization, urbanization, deforestation, technological advancement, overpopulation and modern lifestyle. All these are the main reasons for the increasing level of toxic gases that mix into the air and cause air pollution. According to the WHO around 6.7% of all deaths worldwide are due to the air pollution. Environmental pollution is a small and slow poison which is disturbing all living beings. It is not easy to stop it at once. However its not so tough to prevent it gradually. So my dear friends, we should understand the importance of the environment in which we live in and respect nature. Let us join hands together and take individual steps like simply planting a tree for the next generation and try to stop environmental pollution. Amaz Althaf (12 years) Zahira College, Colombo Water Water is very useful to us. We get water from lakes, rivers, wells and taps. Plants and animals need water to live. We use water for drinking, cooking and washing. Water has no colour, shape or taste. World Water Day is on March 22 every year. We must save water for the future. Water is a gift of nature. Pavanya Samaranayake (8 years) Musaeus College Save water, its precious! Water is the main living thing humans, animals and plants need to survive. If we do not drink enough water then we can get dehydrated. People can also die due to lack of water. Water can be used for drinking, cooking, rafting etc. Water can be very useful at times, for example if there is a fire, you can cool it down by splashing a bucket of water. We should never waste water. We should always think of the people who do not have enough water and save water. Do not forget that water is precious! Aamina Gaffoor (9 years) Royal Institute Girls School Water Water is our lifeblood. All living beings need water. We cant live without water, so water is very important. We get water from wells, rivers and streams. We use water for drinking, cooking, washing, bathing and cleaning. We use water for agriculture also. The people in the dry zone face many difficulties to find clean water. We should not waste water. We should not pollute waterways also. Kisan Amarasinghe (10 years) Prince of Wales College, Moratuwa Trees a valuable gift of nature Nature provides for man in many ways. It gives us fresh air to breathe, water to drink, food to eat, shelter to be safe and many more resources and services. Nature gives all this in many forms. Out of those, a very valuable and precious source is the tree. Trees are of many shapes and sizes. In Sri Lanka they can be found almost everywhere you look. From forest and jungles, to towns and cities, trees can be found in abundance. They provide us with a most essential resource for life; oxygen. They help maintain the water cycle. They supply us with fruits, leaves, medicines and oils. Even when they are cut down, they are equally useful as when they are alive. They provide timber for furniture and construction purposes. Despite helping man so much to an extent that our entire lives depend on them, man in return shows no love towards them. Forests are diminishing fast. Due to this, the amount of tree goes down and doesnt rise again. Although most people dont value trees, there is a handful of people who acknowledge the value of trees. Governments must protect trees by having awareness programmes, setting up reserves and making laws for the protection of trees. We as individual citizens must also do something that contributes to safeguarding trees. There are many ways to do so and we can also motivate family and friends. If everyone protects trees, there would be a massive change. So, save yourself by saving trees. Maslamah Murshid (Grade 11) Hejaaz Int. School, Mt. Lavinia Aruna Siriwardhana drums for Yamaha View(s): Veteran musician and virtuoso drummer Aruna Siriwardhana, a mentor to many young Sri Lankan musicians, has entered into an endorsement agreement with Yamaha Music Centre and its sister company Mike Audio for three leading global instrument brands, Yamaha Drums, Vic Firth sticks, and Sabian cymbals. Mr Siriwardhana will be provided Vic Firth sticks to meet all his performance requirements by Mike Audio (Pvt) Ltd., thesole distributor for the brand in Sri Lanka; an assortment of cymbals by Sabian HQ, Canada, also in collaboration with Mike Audio; and the use of a rehearsal facility at the newly built, fully-equipped Yamaha Pro Studio locatedon the first floor of Yamaha Music Centreforhis endorsement of Yamaha Drums, Japan. Aruna is one of the most respected personalities in the local music scene not only for his skills as a musician but for the role he plays as a discoverer and influencer of, and a mentor to, many young musicians who he teaches free of charge, said Shane Joachim, General Manager at Yamaha Music Centre. We are proud to sign him up as an endorser of our brands. Mr Siriwardhana exclusively uses the gear and instruments provided by the sponsor brands, because in his own words, they are some of the finest products in the market, and has for many years been a very satisfied user of these brands, and by extension publicly endorsed and supported their growth in the country. Vic Firth, headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, was founded by the American musicianEverett Joseph Vic Firth in 1963. The company bills itself the worlds largest manufacturer of drum sticks and mallets, which are made in Newport, Maine. Sabian is a Canadian cymbal designing and manufacturing company founded in 1981 by Robert Zildjian. It specialises in drum-set cymbals, cymbals for bands and orchestras, percussion instruments, and related accessories. Yamaha Drums is a subsidiary of the Yamaha Corporation founded in 1967. The company manufactures acoustic and electronic drum kits as well as percussion instruments, marching band equipment, and drum hardware. Among other Sri Lankan artistes endorsed in the past by Yamaha Music Centre are Lahiru Perera (La Signore), Billy Fernando, Sanka Dineth and Rookantha Gunathilaka, while Soundarie David is currently under endorsement. The Yamaha Music Centre is currently the only music store in the country offering customers world class musical instruments, home audio, pro audio and studio recording equipment under one roof. The Yamaha brands legacy in Sri Lanka traces its beginnings to Michael Caderamanpulle Snr retailing Yamaha pianos in 1922 under the name Yamaha Music Centre. Asandhimitta wins kudos at Osaka Film Festival By Susitha Fernando Nilmini Sigera awarded Most Brilliant Performer View(s): View(s): The debutant, Nilmini Sigera won the Most Brilliant Performer, Yakushi Pearl Award at the recently concluded Osaka Asian Film Festival held in Osaka City, Japan. She was awarded for her role in Asoka Handagamas Asandhimitta, film which started its local screening on March 22. Placed in the main competition of OAFF, Asandhimitta competed with films from Japan, Vietnam, Hong-Kong, Korea, China, India, Philippines and Taiwan. The jury members of the competition were Taiwan Director Yvette Chou, Poland artistic director and co-founder of Five Flavours Film Festival, Jakub Krolikowski and Samantha Lee, a filmmaker from Philippines Started in 2005, the Osaka Asian Film Festival aims to facilitate human resources development and exchange, to invigorate the Osaka economy, and to increase the citys appeal, through providing opportunities to watch excellent Asian films, supporting filmmaking in Osaka and attracting filmmakers from Asian countries and regions to Osaka. Promoting Osaka worldwide as a gateway city for Asian films, and engaging with many people from the fields of culture, art, education, tourism and business, from Osaka and all of Asia, OAFF works as an open platform to contribute to the development of Osaka and cinema. Marking its 14th edition this year, OAFF, under programming director TERUOKA Sozo, had selected high-quality Asian films. The Competition section, which received increased recognition every year, had selected films previously unreleased in Japan. The regular sections, Special Screenings and Indie Forum, and other special programs also featured a wide variety of excellent Asian films. The 10th film by Asoka Handagama, Asandhimitta is made based on a Novella by SamanWickramarchchi. Produced by H D Premasiri, the film stars Nilmini Sigera, Dharmapriya Dias, W Jayasiri, Shyam Fernando, Yashoda Wimaladharma, Rukmal Nirosh, Anula Bulathsinhala, GayaniGisanthika, SandaliHandagama and Pradeep Ramavikrama in the main cast. A renowned filmmaker receives a mysterious call from an old college mate in the middle of the night. Asandhimitta, whom he recalls as a large and voluptuous woman, asks him to make a film based on her life. She then confesses that she was recently involved in a triple homicide of three women and is taken into custody shortly afterwards. Intrigued, the filmmaker attempts to piece together her fragmented story for a film while Asandhimitta herself awaits her fate in a local prison. Asandhimitta had its world premiere at the 2018 Busan International Film Festival and had its European Premiere at the Black Nights Film Festival (In Competition ) in November 2018. ACEL release the film is now being screened at Regal Colombo, Lido Borella and other theatres as a limited engagement as in around the country. CTF discusses about Thomas Melle View(s): Screening of documentary film The World at your back (Thomas Melles Die Welt imRucken Novel and Theatre production) followed by discussion will be conducted as a part of Colombo Theatre Forum at 5 pm on onwards at the Goethe Institut Hall on Marfch 26. If you are bipolar, your life has no continuity from anymore. The illness has wrecked your past and it looms over your future even more threateninly. This book offers exceptional insights into what sufferers go through, offering an arresting chronicle of a disrupted broken life. And also it talks about the illness of his mental disorder and incidentally paints an atmospheric picture of the present pop culture. A radical autobiography of extraordinary literary power. Shortlisted for the German Book Prize 2016. It was also selected for the Merk Social Translating Project 2017 testing a new social practice for literary translation. Born in 1975, Thomas Melle studied applied literary studies and philosophy in Tubingen, Austin, Texas and Berlin. His 2012 debut novel, Sickster, was nominated for the German Book Prize. 2014 saw the publication of 3,000 Euros, which was shortlisted for the German Book Prize. In 2015, Thomas Melle received the Berlin Arts Prize, awarded by the city in which he lives. Curator of the Colombo Theatre Forum is M. Safeer and speakers are Ashani Shalika Ranasingha and Indeewara Thilakarathna. Colombo theatre forum is a space created for those who are seeking new dimensions in Sri Lankan theatre. Scholars, Directors, Script writers, Actors & Actresses, Critics, Lighting Directors, Back stage creators, Stage managers, students and spectators can join this forum in order to widen their horizons in the field of theatre. Colombo Theatre forum organized by Inter Act Art theatre and Goethe Institut Sri Lanka was re-commenced 2017 with the Participation of many young theatre lovers and foreign delegates. The forum will be held last Monday of this month at the Goethe Institut Hall from 5.00 pm onwards. The best of cinematic gems from Bangladesh View(s): Working under a challenging backdrop, both experienced and young Bangladeshi filmmakers have created an impressive mark in the cinema map of Asia. In such a setting, festival of Bangladeshi films would be a rare opportunity to many filmgoers, cinema lovers and students in Sri Lanka. Organised by Bangladesh High Commission, the second Bangladesh Film Festival with a number of award winning and internationally acclaimed set of films will be screened at the National Film Corporation cinema hall Colombo 7 from March 29 to 31. The festival will open with Sapnojaal directed by Giasuddin Selim at 5.30 pm on March 29. On March 30, Ghraan by Kamrul will be screened at 3 pm, at 4 pm Matir Porjar Desh by Bijon Imtiaz and Debi by Anam Biswas at 6 pm will be shown. On March 31 Tanvil Mokammefs Shimathorekha will be screened at 3 pm and Noor Imran Mithus award winning film Komala Rocket will be screened at 6.30. The debut direction by Mithu, Komala Rocket, won the Best Film award at the Jaffna Film Festival 2018. A Master class on cinema also will be held from 10 an 12 noon on March 31 at Colombo Film and Television Academy in Colombo 7. Canny detective work nabs alleged rapist View(s): Nearly three weeks of careful investigation and analysis of CCTV footage by police have led to the arrest of a suspect accused of the rape of a Hungarian national. The suspect, a van driver, was produced in court early this week and placed on remand. The attack occurred in Hikkaduwa on February 19, after the Hungarian woman mistakenly got into the wrong van to proceed to the airport to pick up her fiance, a Sri Lankan, who was returning from overseas. Hikkaduwa Police Acting Officer-in-Charge, Inspector Dinesh Nishantha de Silva, who led the investigations, said the seeds of the tragedy were sown when the arrangements for the van hired to take the woman to the airport went awry, with the van driver not arriving at the correct time. Worried about the delay in the vans arrival, the Hungarian woman tried without success to contact the driver. She then saw there was a vehicle parked where she had arranged to be picked up and asked the driver of that vehicle if he was going to the airport. The driver said yes and she climbed into the vehicle. After leaving the lights of Hikkaduwa behind, the driver stopped the van on an empty stretch of road near a bridge and raped the woman inside the vehicle. He then dropped her off by the roadside. Managing to summon a three-wheeler, the victim returned to where she had been staying and reported the attack to the police the next morning. Inspector de Silva began the hunt for the rapist that day, inspecting the CCTV cameras sited at the location where the victim got into the van. Police discovered the van used in the attack was a white Toyota Hiace KDH. A further breakthrough came when a camera at a petrol station revealed that the vehicle possessed particular accessories, including three special lights and a sticker pasted on the rear window. CCTV footage on March 1 showed the van in Unawatuna, where the driver had picked up two tourists from a guesthouse near the famous Unawatuna Devol Devalaya (Welle Devalaya). Inspector de Silva questioned employees at the guesthouse and learned the van had been dispatched from a travel agency in Mt Lavinia. The information was sent out to police stations and the inspector shortly afterwards received a call from an officer who reported that a van matching the description provided to police had been stopped at a roadblock and that the driver had said he was working for a travel agency in Mt Lavina. Inspector de Silva arrived at the scene and observed that modifications had been carried out on the van to alter its appearance, but he found that the driver had not deleted pictures in his phone that showed the van as it had looked prior to the modifications. After further investigations the suspect was produced for an identification parade this week, where he was picked out by the victim. He is behind bars on remand pending his next court appearance in two weeks time. Central Expressway: Japan imposes tough conditions for big loan By Damith Wickremasekara Threatens to cancel project if bribery is involved, but tough Govt. official says terms too severe View(s): View(s): Japan has imposed tough conditions, including the cancellation of the project, if bribery or corruption is involved, to award the US$ 1 billion commercial loan for the third phase of the Central Expressway project to build the 32 km Pothuhera-Galagedara stretch, a senior official said. The conditions include cancellation of the project and repayment of the loan, if any of the contracting parties is found guilty of bribery charges. In the event of an instance of arbitration, the matter is to be taken up under Japanese laws and in the event of the International Monetary Fund loan facility being withheld or cancelled, the project loan will also be cancelled. The Treasurys External Resources Department Director General, Priyantha Rathnayake, told the Sunday Times the government was not agreeable to such conditions as it was difficult to negotiate on these terms. He said the loan under negotiation had no link with the IMF facility and the government could not be held responsible if a third party got involved in a bribery issue. Mr Rathnayake said the proposal that Sri Lanka should follow Japanese arbitration laws was also not acceptable, as usually it should be a neutral country like Singapore or Britain where matters should be taken up. The loan was proposed by Japan. The contractor and the consultant were proposed by Japan. Therefore, there should be flexibility in approving the loan. We will be forced to look for other options if there is no flexibility, he said. The senior Treasury official said that agreeing to such conditions would also have implications on other loans. He said that if the project had to be called off midway, it would be a major loss for the government. Meanwhile, the Highways Ministry also has sought an opinion from the Attorney Generals Department over a request from Japan to seek the services of the former Japanese Consultant of the project at a new rate. Festering power struggles bubble over, again By Damith Wickremasekara and Asiri Fernando View(s): View(s): Despite strong assurances from the Power and Energy Ministry that power cuts imposed due to the sudden breakdown of the Norochcholai coal power plant on Monday, people are left without electricity for three to four hours at times. Households and business large and small, are all counting the cost of power cuts and failures. The power interruptions in turn have raised questions about future supplies and whether the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) can ensure uninterrupted power with only three more weeks left for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. These unannounced power outages have hurt us badly, We have lost millions. Much of the bread dough had to be thrown away due to the loss of power, complained Bakery Owners Association President M.K. Jayawardena. When the power goes out during baking, an entire batch is ruined. Pre-prepared dough also goes to the waste bin. He said most members cannot afford back-up generators. Even after the ministry said the power situation is fixed still more power outages occurred, although they were shorter in duration, he said, pointing out that orders for functions, restaurants, and weddings taken by small scale bakery owners cannot be delivered. Smaller businesses such as printers and communications centers have been badly affected. The unannounced power outages affect our business. Each time the power goes out, our printing and photocopy machines reset and need to be reprogrammed, claimed Ruwan Botheju, a communications center Owner in Rajagiriya. It affects our planned printing jobs and causes inconvenience to our clients, he said. Mr Botheju also said frequent power outages could damage electronic equipment and that could mean repair costs. Fish vendors are also concerned. Fish prices are already high, and people dont want to buy fish when they know there has been a power outage, argued K. Pushpakumara, a vendor in Bataramulla. He said small-scale vendors cannot afford back up power systems. We can only afford one fridge and a freezer. When the lights go out for several hours we cant sell the stock. He explained that many small-scale vendors buy on credit and face repayment problems when the stock is ruined due to lack of refrigeration. The Ceylon Electricity Board Engineers Union President, Saumaya Kumarawadu, told the Sunday Times that the board faces a shortage of 300 Megawatts of some 2,600MW needed every day, thereby triggering power failures. The problem has been building up over the years due to the failure of authorities to implement at least five key proposed power projects due to a variety of reasons. According to the engineers union, since the completion of the final stage of Norochcholai power plant in 2014, not a single power station was built to meet the increasing electricity needs in the country, leading to the current crisis. The union claims the projects were stopped or purposely delayed by organised groups with vested interests eager to promote projects beneficial to them. They blamed politicians, senior officials in the ministry as well as members and officials in the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL). A long-lerm, least cost electricity generation plan prepared by planning engineers in CEB was finally approved by PUCSL in 2018 amid severe pressure by the Engineers Union. The engineers raised issues about the transparency of the proposed LNG projects. The proposed Sampur power station with a capacity of 500MW was the next biggest power station to be built after Norochcholai and due to be completed by next year, but the project was held back due to a range of reasons. Earlier, a long-term power generation plan prepared by the CEB up to 2034 was sent to the PUCSL in 2016, but was delayed for more than a year and approved only with fewer power stations. Another proposal to add 230MW of LNG power to the national grid by this year has run into controversy with seven companies placing bids for the tender and authorities attempting to favour one bid from a South Korean company. The CEB Engineers Union objected to the move and eventually all bids were evaluated, but this has run into legal issues. Meanwhile, the government is attempting to build three more LNG power stations through several companies from Japan, India and China, but the engineers union claims that there is neither any appropriate proposal nor any agreement on pricing to date. Approval for another 100MW and 244 MW power stations which are to be fuelled by heavy furnace oil proposed as medium-term solutions has been further delayed with engineers refusing to sit on the technical evaluation committee. The CEB Engineers Union claims that six months have passed after the draft tenders were submitted for ministry approval, but the secretary to the ministry is proposing alterations to technical specifications to appease a few individuals with business interests. The union also claims that due to long delays in implementing low-cost coal and LNG power plants, several interim proposals were also made for a number of furnace oil-fuelled power plants as an alternative to the costly diesel powered plants, but the ministry had delayed approval for the bidding process. They claim that delaying tactics of the ministry in granting approval for the bidding process to continue would eventually lead to a situation where emergency power purchases at exorbitant rates from the private sector is the only option left. Cabinet approval was obtained for purchase 100MW of power from diesel generators during the first few weeks of February, but the plan did not materialise. Discussions on power purchases from Ace Matara and Asia Power which could yield 70MW has been suspended by the ministry, the unions claim. The hydropower generation capacity, too, has been dropping due to the adverse weather. The capacity at Castlereigh and Maussakele Reservoirs have dwindled to 8% and 25%, respectively. The capacities in reservoirs of the Mahaweli complex, including Kotmale, Victoria and Randenigala, are at a minimum. The remaining water in these reservoirs is needed for irrigation and the water released for hydro generation has been curtailed by the water management committee. However, the Secretary to the Ministry of Power and Energy, Dr Suren Batagoda, told the Sunday Times that the crisis was not a result of the development over the past three to four years, but a long standing issue. He said one of the reasons was that the engineers had declined to sit on technical evaluation committees resulting in the delay of project approvals. We have even asked the engineers to put forward the least cost of the supply of power so that we can ask bidders if they could provide power at those prices so that we can get the projects moving, he said. He said there are plans to award five LNG projects within the next month to ensure uninterrupted power. We also will be awarding tenders for heavy furnace oil plants and also get the services of a barge from which 100 megawatts could be supplied. Dr Batagoda said disputes between the engineers and the PUCSL were also worsening the power crisis. B N S Batagoda Kumarawadu Power generators add to cost burden The unannounced power cuts are also adversely affecting exporters including the tea and apparel industry. Tea Exporters are very concerned about the frequent power cuts and power interruptions, Mr Jayantha Karunarathne, chairman of the Tea Exporters Association of Sri Lanka told the Sunday Times. To continue with our production to meet shipment deadlines we need to use generators. However, using generators is expensive [and] that could have an impact on our costs depending on the duration of power interruptions, he explained. It is important that we resolve this issue without any further delay as continuous use of generators would lead to various other problems. The apparel industry is very concerned about the power crisis and unannounced power cuts, we have strict time lines for deliveriesm, Mr. MPT Cooray, the general secretary, Joint Apparel Association Forum of Sri Lanka, told the Sunday Times. Fake news on social media and communications platforms regarding pending power outages created disruptions and had compelled some companies to obtain back up power sources at significant cost, said Rohan Masakorala, the chief executive officer, Shippers Academy Colombo. He is also chairman, Advisory Committee for Logistics. Mr Masakorala pointed out that while the power disruptions havent had a significant impact on shipping yet, a prolonged power crisis and unannounced power cuts, may complicate matters. He said the authorities need to be proactive to reduce the spread of fake news. Huge oil refinery at Htota: Controversies and major questions over project By Namini Wijedasa View(s): View(s): By Namini Wijedasa The son of a controversial Indian politician from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is a director in, not just one, but two companies recently incorporated in Sri Lanka. The second was set up ostensibly to implement a US$ 3.85 billion (Rs 685.5 billion) oil refinery project in Hambantota. But the initiative is mired in confusion. The Sri Lankan Government first announced the involvement of the Omani Ministry of Oil and Gas. However, Oman swiftly denied it had any part in the multibillion dollar investment. This contradicted multiple documents including Cabinet and Board of Investment (BOI) papers the Sunday Times has seenthat conclusively say the Omani Ministry will hold a 30 percent stake in the relevant joint venture with the remaining 70 percent going to Silver Park International (Pte) Ltd of Singapore. The BOI then issued a statement admitting that there is no agreement that has been signed between Omans Ministry of Oil and Gas and Silver Park International Pte Ltd with regard to equity arrangements of the project. But the Oman Oil Company has registered their firm intention to participate in equity up to 30 percent, subject to reaching agreement between the parties, it said, indicating that the Omani participation had been heavily overplayed well before a deal was made. Yesterday, the Development Strategies and International trade Ministry circulated an urgent media statement, announcing that Omans Oil and Gas Minister Mohammed Hamad Al Rumhi had arrived in Colombo with the Chief Executive Officer of Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Co (ORPIC) for the groundbreaking ceremony of the oil refinery in Hambantota. This, too, said ORPIC has expressed its firm interest in partnering with Silver Park International in the project. It is clear, therefore, that the proposed deal between Silver Park and the Omani entity is still under negotiation. Now, the identity of the investors and the source of promised foreign investmentthe largest Sri Lanka will ever have received, if it comes in fullhave aroused local interest. Indias The Hindu newspaper named three of Silver Park Internationals four directors as Jegath Rakshagan Sundeep Anand, Jagathrakshakan Sri Nisha and Jagathrakshakan Anusuya. They are the son, daughter and wife of S. Jagathrakshakan, a DMK stalwart. Mr. Sundeep Anand and his wife Sri Nisha are also directors of Silver Park International (Pvt) Ltd and Silver Park Petroleum (Pvt) Ltd incorporated in Sri Lanka, the Sunday Times found. The first was set up on September 10, 2018. The second was formed as recently as February 21 this yearonly six days after Development Strategies and International Trade Minister Malik Samarawickrama submitted his latest Cabinet paper on the subject. Minister Samarawickrama sought approval for the BOI to pursue the project and to allocate 400 acres of land in Hambantota to the investors. Some 200 acres have already been earmarked. According to incorporation papers filed with the Registrar of Companies in Sri Lanka, Mr. Sundeep Anand and Ms. Nisha are also initial shareholders of Silver Park International, along with a 39-year-old man from Ward 02 Mulliyavalai in Mullaitivu. He is named Kunasingam Jasoharan. The companys stated objectives are: to carry out the business of manufacturing, importing, exporting, distributorship, intending, brokering, real estates, transportation and wholesale trade; to participate in Government tenders in order to implement the same project and to carry on bulk or wholesale trading activities; to operate as an investment holding company; to act as an agent or representative to any other person or companies; and to carry out any other business whatsoever the company may decide at a directors meeting. The Silver Park Petroleum directors are Sundeep Anand, Sri Nisha, Kunasingham Jasoharan and Talagala Achchimaddumage Gnanachandra Gunasekaraor engineer, Dr TAG Gunasekara. There are no Omani nationals or representatives of any Omani parties in either company. Cabinet papers say the investors created that company to build a 10 MMPTA (million metric tons per annum) petroleum refinery for exports at Hambantota. The original investment proposal was submitted to the BOI as far back as November 10, 2016, as a joint venture between Silver Park International (Pvt) Ltd, Singapore, and the Ministry of Oil and Gas of the Sultanate of Oman, Cabinet papers state. A Cabinet memorandum dated February 15 this year reaffirms that Silver Park International (Pte) Ltd of Singapore will hold 70 percent of shares while 30 percent will be owned by the Ministry of Oil and Gas of Sultanate of Oman. The debt to equity ratio is placed at 49:51. Export revenue is estimated at US$ 9000 million, expected in the tenth year of operation. And the project, to be completed in 44 months, is tipped to provide 565 Sri Lankans direct employment and up to 185 jobs for foreigners. A letter dated March 12 this year from the BOI to Silver Park International in Singapore also refers to an undertaking from that investor to set up a project for 10 MMPTA Green Field oil refinery in Hambantota for export market with an envisaged investment of US$ 3,850 or its equivalent in Sri Lankan rupees in collaboration with the Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Oil and Gas, PO Box 55, Muscat, Oman. The letter says the project will take 48 months (not 44, as Cabinet papers state) to complete. The construction and completion of the tank farm and ancillary facilities will cost US$ 1,850 million. The construction and operation of the oil refinery will cost US$ 2,000 million. All refined products are to be exported. According to information available online, Silver Park International (Pte) Ltd is a private company incorporated on June 15, 2017, in Singapore. It was, therefore, set up several months after the first investment proposal was submitted to the BOI in Sri Lanka. Silver Parks registered address is 18, Roberts Lane, #03-01 Goodland Building, Singapore (218297). This is the main address of an entity called Sigma Corporate Solutions whose business is to set up companies (Asias company formation specialist). Sigmas websites says it specialises in ten major jurisdictions: British Virgin Islands, Cayman Island, Samoa, Seychelles, Hong Kong, Singapore, Anguilla, Bahamas, Delaware and Mauritius. All are notorious for shell companies, with some of the featuring widely in global investigations on money-laundering and tax invasion. Sigma lends its Singapore address to many different entities, including Silver Park. Publicly available information shows that Jegathrakshagan Sundeep Anand is registered with the Indian Ministry of Corporate Affairs as a director of at least 19 companies. It was not immediately clear why the investors needed to set up a new company in Singapore to channel their investment into Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, one of the Sri Lankan addresses of Mr Jagathrakshakan and his wife is listed as 143B, Messenger Street (renamed as M.J.M. Lafeer Mawatha), Colombo-12. But that location is a shop near Armour Street called Bath Galaxy that sells wall and floor tiles, sanitary ware, sinks, aluminium doors and bathroom accessories. The person who answered the telephone said there were no Indians associated with the business. The other address, listed in the Silver Park Petroleum incorporation papers, is 50, Allium Tower, 4/3 Suwisuddharama Road, Colombo 6, Thimbirigasyaya. That flat has been taken on rent by a party, sources said, but it had no inhabitants at present. The Indian address of the couple is 1, 1st Main Road, Kasturibai Nagar, Adyar, Chennai 600020, Tamil Nadu. This is where the Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, started by Mr Jagathrakshan, is located. Minister Samarawickrama justifies the proposed project to the Cabinet by saying the country badly needs export-catalytic high value investments for rapid and sustainable growth, creating high income generating employment and value addition. The proposed investment is US$ 3,580 spread over 44 months to set up the petroleum refinery. He points out that this is Sri Lankas largest foreign direct investment to date. (Even the Chinese investment in Port City stopped at US$ 1.4 billion , while it cost China Merchants Port Holdings US$ 1.12bn to lease and manage the Hambantota port). The investment is from a Singapore registered company and the Ministry of Oil and Gas of the Sultanate of Oman is one of the equity participants with 30% equity, Ministers last Cabinet memorandum on this states, prematurely. It says the investors have already initiated preliminary work and are urging the BOI to allocate land immediately to begin site-specific environmental impact assessment (EIA), geo-technical studies and detailed front-end engineering design. The Cabinet paper states that action has been initiated to acquire suitable land parcels in Hambantota from the Mahaweli Authority for establishment of the Hambantota Industrial Zone, in which such projects could be established. The process, however, is time consuming and the investor has expressed deep concern on delay in allocating land. Considering above and to prevent the investor from shifting to another country, the BOI has applied to allocate 200 acres of land from the Mirijjawila Export Processing Zone on a 50-year lease based on applicable current rates as the initial segment of the land required, enabling the investor to commence the first stage of the project: that is, water treatment facility, desalination facility, storage tanks, etc, without further delay, the Cabinet has been told. With such allocation of land, the BOI will reportedly conduct a site-specific EIA while the investor will be able to begin the geo-technical studies for the first stage of the project. Approximately 400 acres of land is expected to be allocated once the land transfer takes place from the Mahaweli Authority, based on the valuation of the Government Chief Valuer, probably in March 2019, the memorandum states. The environmental impact assessment and other relevant studies for the said site will be conducted as and when access is available and land is demarcated. The BOIs 200 acres come at a non-refundable lease premium of the Sri Lankan rupee equivalent of US$ 20,000 per acre and a ground rent of US$ 4,235 per acre per annum. Cabinet documents also reveal that, out of three prospective investors, a Chinese party that requested predominant local market access with downstream operations has already dropped out. A proposal from the other potential investor, Sugih Energy International, is being pursued and will initiate upon allocation of initial plots of land, most probably in March 2019. Discussions are ongoing with the Minister of Finance on incentives to be granted for such high value, large-scale, export-catalytic investments and a separate joint Cabinet memorandum seeking approval for incentives for both these projects is to be submitted in due course, Minister Samarawickrama told the Cabinet. Allegations against the DMKs billionaire politico S. Jagathrakshakan was first elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly in 1984. Between 2009 and 2013, he held positions as Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy and Minister of State for Commerce and Industry. The senior politician has been embroiled in several allegations. It is widely reported that his personal wealth increased by 12 times in just two years. His 2009 election affidavit placed his assets at INR 5.9 crore (INR 59mn). This skyrocketed to INR 70 crore (INR 700mn) by 2011. Media reports said this was the highest percentage increase for assets among all ministers in the central Cabinet during that period. Mr Jagathrakshakans name was also associated with the infamous Indian coal allocation scam. Accusations of unexplained wealth have dogged the family for years. In 2016, income tax investigators raided around 40 properties, including residences owned and managed by Mr Jagathrakshakan and his family, on allegations of tax evasion. Journalists placed his personal worth at the time to be around INR 500 to 600 crore (INR 5000-6000mn) at the time. PM meets Omani oil minister Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, last evening, met Omani Oil and Gas Minister Mohammed Hamad Al Rumhy, amidst controversy over whether the Sri Lankan Government had prematurely announced Omans investment in a multibillion dollar oil storage facility and refinery in Hambantota. The meeting at Temple Trees was more in the nature of a courtesy call, a spokesman for the Prime Ministers office told the Sunday Times. No specifics were discussed, but the visiting Minister who will attend todays ceremony showed general interest in Sri Lanka and will meet Ministers Malik Samarawickrama, Kabir Hashim and Rishad Bathiudeen. The spokesman confirmed that the Omani Government had not invested any funds, nor agreed to invest any money so far on the project, but was awaiting the feasibility report to take a decision. Meanwhile, Minister Samarawickrama whose ministry referred to the project as the biggest foreign investment in Sri Lanka since Independence told the Sunday Times this is a very transparent long term project. Interested parties are trying to sabotage it. Mahendrans case: AG compiles new extradition report View(s): The Attorney Generals Department is compiling a further detailed report supporting the request for the extradition of the Central Banks former Governor Arjun Mahendran on the instructions given by the Presidents Secretary, a Presidential Secretariat spokesman said. The report would be sent to the Singaporean authorities after Singaporean Foreign Ministry called for further information over the extradition request put forwarded by the government, according to a statement issued by the Presidential Secretariat. On May 28 last year, Sri Lanka made an official request through the Defence Ministry Secretary to extradite Mr. Mahendran to Sri Lanka. The first request was sent to the Singapore Foreign Ministry after the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) by its submission, to the Fort Magistrate stated that Mr. Mahendran has committed an offence that falls within legal clauses of No 18 in the section 2 of the Extradition Act of Singapore, he should be extradited to Sri Lanka. Based on that report the INTERPOL has issued a red notice on April 19, 2018, and the notice has also been attached to the extradition request. Meanwhile, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said this was a ongoing process and was being handled at top level diplomatic channels between the two countries. There is no finality in this process as of now. I is premature to make a comment on that process at this stage, a spokesperson said. Early this week, the Presidential Secretariat rejected news reports suggesting that the Government had failed to submit adequate documents to facilitate the extradition of Mr. Mahendran. Navy personnel for specialised training on Chinese frigate View(s): A company of 110 Sri Lankan Navy personnel will leave for China at the end of the month to undergo specialised training on board a Chinese frigate, the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) told the Sunday Times. The frigate is expected to be handed over to the Sri Lanka Navy later this year. Ninety-two sailors and 18 officers make up the 110-strong delegation who are expected to take over duties on the vessel once it is handed over to the SLN later this year. Last week ship spotters in China photographed the frigate -P625- heading for sea trials. The Jangwei I class missile frigate, was previously the Tongling in the Peoples Liberation Armys Navy (PLAN) and served until 2015. Power cuts: Complain to the PUCSL View(s): The Public Utility Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) wants electricity consumers countrywide to tell it when supplies are disrupted so that it may confront the Ministry of Power and Energy. For this purpose, the PUCSL will place advertisements in the media, Corporate Communications Director Jayanat Herat told the Sunday Times yesterday. Days earlier, Power and Energy Minister Ravi Karunanayake declared there would be no power cuts under any circumstances. However, his Ministry Secretary Suren Batagoda told the Sunday Times the Ceylon Electricity Board was running short of 300MW of power every day. This was with consumption levels remaining at 2,500MW. The moves came as the Ministry urged the people to reduce power consumption, requested local councils to cut down street lighting by 50 percent and asked private industries to use their power generation plants in a fresh bid to overcome an ongoing power crisis. In recent days, different areas had been hit by unannounced power-cuts, sometimes for more than three hours. On Thursday, Power and Energy Minister Ravi Karunanayake presided over a meeting where the issue of power cuts was discussed, but no final decision was taken. Dr. Batagoda said they hope to take emergency measures for the next 20 days and would encourage the private sector to import generators while expecting an increase in hydropower generation to meet the demand. He said the Ministry would call a meeting of industrialists in the coming days to urge them to generate their own power. The Ministry will also urge the people to switch off at least two lights at nights and reduce the use of air conditioners. If these and other measures were successful, there would be a saving of 300MW daily. CEB engineers have recommended to the General Manager of the Board that imposing rotational load shedding was required in view of the shortfall of hydropower generation. At present, the hydropower generation capacity has dropped to five percent of the total supplies as against a supply of 40 to 50 percent of the power requirements on a daily basis. The CEB Engineers Union has claimed that the failure to implement several proposed projects from 2015 onwards has led to the current crisis. Union leader Saumaya Kumarawadu said the PUCSL and the ministry had failed to permit the implementation of the projects, but a PUCSL spokesman said it was the engineers who were delaying projects by refusing to attend Technical Evaluation Committee meetings. Among the projects delayed or held back from 2015 are four Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) projects aimed at producing 1,630MW, the 500 MW Sampur coal power project and also power stations fuelled by heavy furnace oil. Aconcagua will be waiting for us; another day By Smriti Daniel Determined to conquer it one day, after deciding to turn back just 500m away from the summit of this Andes range mountain, our very own Everest heroes Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala and Johann Peries recount the challenges they faced View(s): View(s): Its easy to assume that once you have stood on the summit of Everest, the world laid out before you, that no other climb will offer quite the same challenge. However, hanging from ropes on the icy face of Aconcaguas glacier in South America, their bodies shuddering uncontrollably with cold, their fingers at risk of frostbite, Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala and Johann Peries would have been the first to point out that that assumption was wrong. Just 500m from the summit of Aconcagua, but still hours away in reality, the two Sri Lankan mountaineers chose to head back down. They had landed in Mendoza in north-central Argentina, and began their journey from there toward the mountain on February 6. Their first sight of Aconcagua came across a broad, flat plain, which ended abruptly as the mountains rose in sharp relief. The summit itself, framed between the slopes of other mountains, was visible in the distance. Johann felt his heart surge: Its hard to describe the feeling of seeing the mountain for the first time. Youve pored over all these images and planned, and then there it is. Its like nothing else in the world, he remembers. They are famous for having become the only Sri Lankans to summit Mt. Everest Jayanthi in 2016, and Johann in 2018. Theyve become national heroes as a result, even as they have continued their everyday lives Jayanthi as a leading womens rights and gender expert and Johann as an entrepreneur and one of the citys best known stylists. The two, who hope to complete the seven summits challenge by standing on the peaks of the tallest mountains on every continent, have had people rooting for them. This time, their Summit sponsor was Hatton National Bank while their Official Gear sponsors were Petzl& SEALs. Wurth Lanka also partnered with them. Now, the duo say there were many similarities in the terrain between the approach to Aconcagua and that to Everest. A three-day hike had taken them first along the Vacas River, and then up the Relinchos. They could make out the Polish Glacier even from this distance a smear of white at the highest peak, wreathed in cloud. Each water crossing brought them closer to their destination but required that they mount one of the expeditions faithful mules or simply brave the frigid waters with their pants rolled up. More often than not, they opted for the mules. With a few days rest in Mendoza to draw on, both Johann and Jayanthi were in fine form in the days leading up the climb. Some of this ease extended to their hike up to base camp and Plaza Argentina (at 13,780 feet) itself, where in a first for them, they were served wine and enjoyed a BBQ at the foot of a mountain. They offer these mouth-watering feasts as an explanation for why Johann lost 10kg after Everest but only 2kg after Aconcagua. The hardest challenges now lay ahead. The two were among only four people attempting the summit through this technically challenging route this year. Their guide had impressed upon them how the success rates were lower for those who opted for it, adding that in any case, they would only reach the summit if the mountain willed it. Jayanthi was completely accepting of this philosophy. The summit can be quite elusive. There are so many things that have to come together, that there is really no way of predicting what will happen, she says, adding that it has always felt true to her that the mountain chooses you, rather than the other way around. They began their rotations, carrying their food up to Camp 1 (15,400 feet) and then later to Camp 2 (19,300 feet) and down again; making the journey multiple times to help them acclimatize. On one of those rounds, a storm hit, and in those winds Jayanthi says she was actually afraid. Winds rushing off the Pacific Ocean were pouring down these slopes at 75km to 80km per hour, and these threatened to lift her off her feet and send her tumbling down the slope. I found it really tough, she says, adding that a backpack filled with 10kg of food added to the challenge. Johann had experienced similar winds on Everest, but had not been trapped outdoors like they were here. They could barely see, and had to watch for small ice and scree propelled by gusts. They made it through, and the following days brought stunning views. The horizon was so clear they thought they could see all the way across the Chilean border, and the ranges lay stretched out before them, great masses of rock and snow piercing the sky. With so few people on the route, it felt like they were truly out in the wild. Rearing above their small tents at Camp 2, the Polish Glacier was a steep, icy incline and an intimidating presence. Before attempting that final stretch on February 18, a 10 to 12-hour roundtrip to the summit, they were tested for their fitness, the ability to self-arrest and climb at speed across snow and ice, as well as their understanding of essential techniques like the running belay system. Having passed, they set off at 2 a.m. Very quickly the two realised that they would have benefitted from more practice with the ice axes on a steep surface. They needed to be able to work with two ice axes for long periods of time, and this tested their strength and skills. The technique we had to use here was completely different to what we had used on Everest, says Jayanthi adding that they progressed at a much slower pace as a result. They describe a climb so steep, that one can barely rest, standing upright even when on a break, wedged into the ice in an attempt to stay anchored. It was very cold, and very clear, with the wind coming off the glacier, Jayanthi remembers, adding that it was a challenge to keep up with their more experienced guide. After several hours, dawn tinged the horizon with colour, but it remained bitterly cold. Their guide advised them to turn back, pointing out that there were several hours yet to go, and then they would still have to face the return journey. The two were shivering so much that they knew hypothermia was a real risk. The equipment had to be handled without heavy gloves, and that left their fingers miserably cold as well. The decision was taken to head back. Johann says he turned in part because of a miscommunication that had them believing they would still be able to attempt the less technical route. Unfortunately, the logistics werent in place for that. The duo says they were disappointed but do not regret their attempt. Aconcagua will be waiting for them when they return another day. Before we left, people kept saying to us, This will be a bed of roses! says Johann, but the truth is, every mountain has its challenges, and you have to face them. You need to work to overcome every obstacle, and on a mountain, there is nothing you can take for granted. Bangkoks Phra Buddha Sihing and the Sri Lankan connection By Sujiva Dewaraja View(s): View(s): The Phra Buddha Sihing bronze and gold Buddha statue which commands pride of place at the Buddhaisawan Chapel right at the front of the National Museum, Bangkok is considered the second most revered Buddha image in Thailand after the Emerald Buddha. The aura of this image is dignified, quietly refined and serene. The face is round with the faintest trace of a smile and the Ushnisha (protrusion from the head) almost merges with the pointed curls of hair. Elongated fingers of equal length make delicately sinuous curves. The image is surrounded in the chapel interior by the magnificent murals depicting the life of the Buddha atop which are rows of celestial beings, all of whom gaze reverentially at the spot where the Sihing sits close to the centre of the floor. The chapel was purpose-built in 1795 to house the Sihing as a private chapel for the Maha Uparaja or deputy prince, a younger brother of King Rama I. The image, believed to be spiritually protective and a symbol of Royal authority has been seized and re-located multiple times from Nakhon Si Thammarat to Sukhothai to Chiang Mai (Wat Phra Singh) to Ayuthaya. It was again removed from the Buddhaisawan Chapel upon the death of its architect, the Maha Uparaja for safekeeping to the Grand Palace and was not returned to the chapel until the reign of King Rama IV in the mid 19th Century. Every Songkran (Thailands New Year), the statue is taken out and placed for public veneration at the Sanam Luang palace grounds. The origin of the Phra Buddha Sihing (literally The Sinhalese Buddha) is shrouded in legend and mystery. There are multiple versions of the story of how it reached the Lanna Kingdom (Chiang Mai). The version recounted here is as related in the well- researched The Art of Sukhothai by Carol Stratton and Miriam McNair Scott. The great historical chronicle of Lanka, the Mahavamsa traces the origin of the Sinhalese race to when Prince Vijaya of Lala country (in present-day Bengal, North Eastern India), according to legend said to be descended of a lion, sailed into the coast of Sri Lanka flying a lion flag, on the precise day on which the Lord Buddha attained Parinirvana (passed away) in Kusinara in 543 B.C. The history of the Sihing The Phra Buddha Sihing we see today, is however, probably a late 15th Century replica, crafted in Siam, of the original Sinhalese Buddha. There are three similar statues in Thailand today referred to by the same name. The statues long and complicated history dates back almost two millennia. Legend relates that the image was made for a Sri Lankan King in 156 A.D. as per the vision of Buddha of a Naga or serpent king. Over the centuries, the fame of this remarkable image spread throughout the Buddhist world. A thousand years later, in 1256, the legendary King referred to as Rojarat of the Sukhothai Kingdom of 13th/14th Century Siam (probably King Intaratit or Ram Kamheng) went to Nakhon Si Thammarat on the east coast of Siam, where he heard of the wondrous ancient Sri Lankan Buddha image and promptly dispatched an emissary to Sri Lanka to ask for the statue. The king of Sri Lanka (probably Parakramabahu II) graciously consented and placed the prized image on a junk headed for Siam. The ship is said to have run aground on a reef prior to reaching its destination and the statue miraculously floated on a plank for three days before being washed ashore at Nakhon Si Thammarat. Rojarat triumphantly returned to his seat in Sukhothai bearing the precious statue, which came to be known as the Palladium, or magic protector of the Sukhothai Kingdom. Later, between the 14th to 18th centuries, the much prized Palladium was lost and three copies were made, each of which were subsequently claimed as the original. Two of the copies moved from principality to principality as prizes of war, finally ending up at Chiang Mai and Nakhon Si Thammarat. The third and most faithful copy is the one now at the National Museum, Bangkok. This image depicts the Buddha in the Dhyana or Samadhi Mudra (meditation posture), both hands on the lap facing upward, right hand on left, right leg crossed over left. This combination of hand and leg positions is typical of historical seated Buddha images from Sri Lanka. Two of the most famous the 4th Century Samadhi Buddha in Anuradhapura and 12th Century Gal Vihara in Polonnaruwa both carved in granite, depict Buddha in this identical posture. The other two copies made of the Sihing depict Buddha in the earth calling or subduing of Mara gesture, with one hand pointing earthward in the typical style of Sukhothai images, adding credence to the view that the Phra Buddha Sihing housed today at the Buddhaisawan Chapel is indeed the most authentic copy of the long lost Palladium of Sukhothai from Sri Lanka. The whereabouts of the original image are unknown. For now, the image housed in the Buddhaisawan Chapel continues to inspire the awe and reverence of thousands of Buddhist faithful as well as art lovers and visitors to Bangkok. Sri Lankas role in the propagation of Theravada Buddhism The story of the Sihing exemplifies the Lankan influence on the Sukhothai era, of which there is a multitude of evidence. Theravada Buddhism was brought to Sri Lanka from India in the 3rd century B.C by Arahath Mahinda, son of Emperor Asoka. Buddhas teachings, hitherto passed down by word of mouth, were written down as the Tripitaka for the first time in the 5th Century A.D in Sri Lanka in Pali, following a convention of 1000 monks. Since then, the island has come to be considered the bastion of Buddhist scholarship and orthodoxy, home to a chapter of monks with an unbroken line of succession from the time of the Buddha, the Mahavihara sect. In 1331, the Mahavihara sect of Sri Lanka set up a branch in Ramannadesa in lower Burma, which in turn had close links with the Sukhothai Kingdom in Siam. Consquently, ten Siamese monks were sent there during the reign of Lo Thai (1298 1346 A.D.) for re-ordination in the Sinhalese tradition, which led to the consolidation of Theravada Buddhism as the State Religion in Thailand. Religious and artistic links between the ancient Siamese and Sinhalese during the Sukhothai Era were further bolstered by the Siamese monk Sisatta who spent a long period in Sri Lanka participating in the restoration of the Mahathupa (Ruvanveli Dagaba). Sisatta brought back with him from Sri Lanka, two highly sacred hair and neck bone relics of the Buddha as well as a team of Sinhalese artisans who introduced new techniques and motifs into Sukhothai art. Unmistakable Sri Lankan influence is evident in the Bell (Ghantara) shaped stupa and elephant buttresses at Wat Chang Lom, Sri Satchnalai and Kala-arch decorative motifs at Wat Mahathat, Sukhothai. The revered 2nd century B.C. Mahatupa (Ruvanveli Dagoba) is thought to have inspired both Wat Mahathat and Wat Chang Lom in Siam. The typically Sinhalese style decorative motifs of inward turning Makaras with peacock tails on the arches at Wat Mahathat, Sukhothai are further examples of Sri Lankan elements in Sukhothai art. Furthermore, since very similar decorations can be seen at the Lankatilleke temple, Polonnaruwa, built in 1342 just prior to the restoration of the Mahathat, it is believed the same Sinhalese artisans worked on both projects. Drawing from and building upon this Sri Lankan as well as Khmer, Mon and other influences, the art of Sukhothai continued to flourish, evolving into its own unique style. Siam got its chance of returning the favour to Sri Lankan Buddhists in the late 18th Century, when after centuries of European colonial rule, Buddhism and the status of the Sangha had reached a low ebb, a Siamese monk Upali Thera travelled to Sri Lanka and played a key role in the establishment of the Siam Nikaya which paved the way for the revival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Being the work of Siamese craftsmen based on an ancient Sinhalese image, the magnificent Phra Buddha Sihing remains an enduring testament to the centuries- old history of religious, cultural and artistic links between Thailand and Sri Lanka which flourished during the Sukhothai era and continue to this day. (An abridged version of this article was published in Sala, the journal of the National Museum Volunteers, Bangkok) Umeshi brings Pluralism to stage By Ruqyyaha Deane View(s): View(s): The Mesh Academy of Dance (MAD) in collaboration with their sister company, Mesh Dance Theatre will soon bring to the public their new production Pluralism. Founder and Chief Artistic Director of Mesh Academy Umeshi Rajeendra who has choreographed the three dances in the show says it is a reflection of the different thoughts,views and opinions that society has drawn attention to or ignored. Pluralism is on April 5 and 6 at the Park Street Stables. After graduating with a BA in Dance (and a BA in Economics with a political science minor) from the Denison University in the US, Umeshi had the opportunity to work as a performer, collaborator and choreographer in New York. However through her experiences she realised she wanted to teach dance and give something back to the country that has given her so much. I believe in sharing what you learnt and any experiences that youve had. Thats the only way dance will ever grow. Thus Umeshi returned to Sri Lanka and launched the Mesh Dance Academy in 2015. As a company, Umeshi shares that she and her team believe that arts and education are crucial for understanding society and for any country to progress in a way that is equal and that is diverse and very welcoming. The show Pluralism is not just about diversity, or tolerance or relativism, its an energetic engagement that actively seeks to understand and create dialogue about current ideas, perceptions and thoughts around the world. The show supports the dancers and is not solely to premiere the three works that the company has been tirelessly working on. With the lack of backing for arts in Sri Lanka, the proceeds will help the dancers travel internationally and get the training they require. The funds from the show will also be in aid of Room to Read, a non-profit organisation that works with underprivileged children in education. Pluralism will be held on April 5 and 6 at the Park Street Stables, 50/1, Park Street, Colombo 2 at 7.30p.m. with an additional show at 3 p.m. on April 6. Tickets are priced at Rs. 1000, 2000 and 3000 and are available on www.taktikbook.lk Nerja Foreign Residents Department has announced that the Residents Day planned for this Sunday 24 March has been postponed until Sunday 31 March due to the poor weather forecast. According to the forecast issued by the Spanish met office Aemet on Saturday morning, there was a 60% chance of rain on Sunday afternoon, as well as a likelihood of winds up to 25 km/h. There is also a yellow weather warning in place for rough seas along the Costa del Sol. Trump critic, San Juan mayor to run for governor of Puerto Rico Miami, March 22 (AFP) Mar 22, 2019 San Juan, Puerto Rico's mayor -- who challenged President Donald Trump over what really happened when the US island was devastated by Hurricane Maria -- is running for governor, she said Friday. "I am going to serve the people of Puerto Rico as the next governor," Carmen Yulin Cruz said, in a T-shirt with the slogan "Sin miedo" (Fearless), two and a half years after gaining international attention for her firm handling of the massive crisis -- and of Trump. As Trump insisted the federal government had done all it could to help Puerto Rico, a US commonwealth of more than three million people, Cruz was quick to tell him the slow US federal response was what "killed" many islanders. She will represent the Popular Democratic Party - known by its Spanish acronym PPD -- in the 2020 race against Ricardo Rossello who favors having the island keep its current status. Trump defended his handling of the crisis, and charged Cruz with taking him on in order to benefits Democrats politically. Hit by two hurricanes in quick succession, Irma and then Maria, 3,000 people were killed in Puerto Rico. Trump boasted of a low casualty toll -- when local officials had not reported it in a timely and accurate way. Last year, Cruz, 56, took on Trump in another tweet, saying (in Spanish) "It isn't that you have failed to understand what happened. It's that you are unable to execute your moral imperative: helping the people of Puerto Rico." Puerto Rico's citizens are US citizens and carry a US passport. The mostly Spanish-speaking former Spanish colony long has debated whether it should seek independence, the current a relationship with the United States, or full US statehood. 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 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. MNDOBANDOBA - Government houses have been taken over by the community after being abandoned by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives at Mndobandoba, near Matata Shopping Complex. The houses were built over two decades ago to accommodate extension officers of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. This was when the country had a vibrant cotton ginnery and farmers were striking it rich in cotton farming. When the industry collapsed, the government personnel vacated the houses, leaving them to be dens for thugs, drug peddlers and sex profanities. The area had three units, which are two bed-room, fashioned the government style with built-in kitchen units, bathrooms and shower fittings. One of the houses accommodates a government tractor driver. When the trying years took toll in the agriculture industry, occasioned by the long drought spell, the houses were gradually plundered. Doors were ripped off, sinks and taps detached as well as some roof sheets. Glasses in windows were either carefully removed or crudely smashed, eventually bringing the houses to a ghostly state. The local authorities through umphakatsi intervened and assumed ownership of the houses, apparently to deal decisively with the high crime rate exacerbated by the unattended houses. Though some community members, who have watched the development with a critical eye, have alleged that one house was sold for as much as E20 000 to a community member, this was vehemently denied by the traditional authorities, who said no one had paid anything to purchase any of the houses. The headman of the area, Indvuna Mazibuko confirmed that the local authorities had taken over the houses after an agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture. He said the land on which the houses were built belonged to the local authority and not government, which gave the community every right to reconsider its use. MONENI The Ministry of Health is in a process of redeploying 15 nurses from the National TB Hospital and the medical practitioners staged a rare demonstration to oppose the move. According to the nurses, who ditched their meals during their lunch hour yesterday to picket at the main gate of the hospital in protest over the intended redeployments of some of them, the ministry assumed that they were overstaffed, yet they were of the view that they were understaffed. They said on Tuesday, the ministrys chief nursing officer came to notify them that since they were overstaffed, a total of 15 nurses would be redeployed to other hospitals which were in crisis in terms of staff members. However, they said according to their analysis, they needed more nurses in the hospital as they were short-staffed to an extent that sometimes a nurse had to work double shift in a ward or manage two wards. This poses a danger to the patients as they are supposed to take their medication at specific times, they said. Again, they alleged that due to the shortage of nurses in the hospital, some of the medical practitioners who were on leave were recalled while those who had applied to go on leave had their applications rejected. They said ordinarily, they had three shifts per day, per ward and in other wards, it happens that only a night shift nurse was available while at times it would have medical practitioners for two shifts. Their argument was that the ministry should engage them so that they could unpack what was happening on the ground as opposed to making decisions based on assumptions. On another note, they said working with patients with drug resistant (DR)-TB, it meant that they also had it but it was on latent stage. So, why does government want to expose us somewhere else? Again, once we get sick, we want to be compensated because chances are that we will be treated for XDR-TB, the picketing nurses said. They emphasised that they were against their redeployment and vowed to fight the process with all they have. They argued that it was public knowledge that shortages of nurses was a national issue and suggested that government should address that issue as opposed to redeploying some of them. Meanwhile, efforts of getting a comment from the Director of Health Services, Vusi Magagula, proved to be futile as his mobile phone was not available on MTN Eswatini network for the better part of yesterday afternoon. The Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Health, Simon Zwane, as well, could not be reached for a comment as his phone first rang unanswered but later on it was not available on MTN Eswatini network. MBABANE Its a double headache for the Central Transport Administration (CTA). About a month ago, the Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg described CTA as a major drain to government coffers. Workers at the department are making it worse by selling car parts to members of the public, illegally. Recently, the Times of Swaziland published a story that government assets at CTA, worth approximately E1 billion are protected by a knob stick (sagila). Journalists from this publication, who recently went undercover, discovered how easy it was to purchase car parts from employees without triggering the wrath of the armed security guards. During a two-week long investigation, our investigators were able to procure new car parts from two different depots of the agency. Bought The agency has depots in Mbabane (main branch), Matsapha, Nhlangano Siteki, and Piggs Peak. The parts bought form part of a service kit which comprises power plugs, oil filter and five-litre magnetic oil. In total these goods cost approximately E550 from a budget of E700. The plugs and oil filter were bought for E150 each while the oil cost E250. There was an additional cost of E5 which was used to purchase a five litre container for the oil. It should be noted that if a depot did not have a part, the buyer would be referred to another depot. The communication is done through cellphones. In a nutshell, government is losing approximately E550 per day this translates to about E132 000 a year if this happens on a daily basis, which the CTA employee said was the case. Loss For argument sake, if there are 10 similar transactions each day, this means a loss of over E1 million a year. This exercise proved to be costly because most of the parts were cheaper from legal retailers as per quotations sought. The oil was the only cheap commodity as it retails at E380. The plugs and oil filter cost about E120 and E66, respectively. When an explanation was sought about the ridiculous price, the response given was that a lot of people were involved. At most about four workers should be involved for the transaction to be smooth and undetected. How the process starts - the buyer and seller or a middleman meet at drinking holes to discuss about the project. This is where the buyer would be informed if the parts he was intending to purchase were available on stock or not. He would then be told about the prices of each of the goods. Negotiations on the price list would then begin. Nigerians returned to vote in governorship and state elections on Saturday after polling a fortnight ago was declared invalid in some areas because of violence. The decision by Nigeria\s electoral board to void March 9 elections in six states came two weeks after President Muhammadu Buhari won a second term in a poll denounced by his main rival as fraudulent. The INEC, the National Electoral Commission, said violence and other irregularities had prompted voting to be cancelled in some areas of Kano and Sokoto, in the northwest, Bauchi and Adamawa in the northwest, and the central states of Benue and Plateau. Another poll, in Rivers state, had been suspended. Around half a million registered voters were eligible to cast their ballot Saturday. Results are expected from early next week. The governorship races in the six states are closely fought between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). State parliamentary elections were also taking place across the country. Tempers have been frayed since Buhari\s re-election, with the defeated PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar challenging the result in an election tribunal and claiming that results in several states were manipulated. Election observers meanwhile criticised the organisation and running of the governorship and state elections, as well as presidential and parliamentary polls on February 23, citing reports of vote buying and intimidation. Situation Room, an umbrella group of more than 70 civil society organisations monitoring the vote, has called for an independent inquiry into the entire election process. The PDP denounced INEC\s decision to halt voting in affected states, claiming it was "clearly leading the (governorship) race," accusing INEC of collusion with the ruling party. INEC was "seeking ways to use the situation to aid the APC to alter the results and announce APC candidates as winners", it said in a statement Monday. Buhari\s APC won 13 states in the governorship elections, with the PDP winning 9. Regional elections are fiercely contested in Nigeria, where governors are powerful and influential figures, controlling state finances and responsible for key areas from education to health. Buhari will hope to consolidate his re-election victory whilst the opposition PDP seeks to claw back power at the state level. SOURCE: AFP By Trend Official exchange rate of the Azerbaijani manat against the US dollar, set by the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA), remained unchanged last week, Trend reports. Accordingly, at the end of the week, the average rate was 1.7 AZN/USD. Official AZN/USD exchange rate March 11 1.7 March 18 1.7 March 12 1.7 March 19 1.7 March 13 1.7 March 20 - March 14 1.7 March 21 - March 15 1.7 March 22 - Average weekly 1.7 Average weekly 1.7 At the end of last week, the official exchange rate of manat against euro, set by CBA, decreased by 0.0017 manats or 0.1 percent. Accordingly, the average AZN/EUR rate was 1.92795 manats. Official AZN/EUR exchange rate March 11 1.9097 March 18 1.9271 March 12 1.9128 March 19 1.9288 March 13 1.9181 March 20 - March 14 1.9242 March 21 - March 15 1.9241 March 22 - Average weekly 1.9178 Average weekly 1.92795 The official exchange rate of manat to Russian ruble, set by CBA, decreased by 0.0001 manats or 0.4 percent. Accordingly, the average AZN/RUB rate was 0.02588 manats. Official AZN/RUB exchange rate March 11 0.0257 March 18 0.0263 March 12 0.0258 March 19 0.0264 March 13 0.0259 March 20 - March 14 0.0260 March 21 - March 15 0.0260 March 22 - Average weekly 0.02588 Average weekly 0.02635 The official exchange rate of manat to Turkish lira, set by CBA, increased by 0.0009 manats or 0.3 percent. Accordingly, the average AZN/TRY rate was 0.3117 manats. Official AZN/TRY exchange rate March 11 0.3124 March 18 0.3119 March 12 0.3127 March 19 0.3110 March 13 0.3114 March 20 - March 14 0.3112 March 21 - March 15 0.3110 March 22 - Average weekly 0.3117 Average weekly 0.31145 March 20-26 are non-working days in Azerbaijan on the occasion of the Novruz holiday, and in this regard, the exchange rate of manat against other currencies wasnt formed. 22 March, Buenos Aires The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator, Mr. Achim Steiner stressed the importance of increased cooperation among countries in the South to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable progress. South-South and triangular cooperation is critical to the 2030 Agenda and the overarching goal of eradication of poverty in all its forms and dimensions. Steiner said. Mr. Steiner, who was also appointed as the Secretary-General of the Conference, was addressing participants of the Second High-level United Nations Conference on South-South Cooperation (BAPA+40). Hosted by the government of Argentina, the meeting brought together over 3800 participants, including heads of state and ministers from around the world. Forty years ago, Argentina hosted the Conference on Technical Cooperation Among Developing Countries where the historic Buenos Aires Plan of Action was adopted, highlighting the importance of South-South cooperation in addressing challenges confronting the developing world. Today, as an example of the progress made, trade among countries in the South accounts for more than one quarter of all world trade, while foreign direct investment outflows from the South represent one-third of global Foreign Direct Investment flows. South-South Cooperation plays an indispensable role in todays development landscape. It represents a shared vision among the peoples and countries of the South that is shaped by close historical realities, similar development pathways, as well as shared challenges, said Steiner. UNDP has a long history as a trusted knowledge broker, partnership facilitator, and a capacity development supporter for South-South and Triangular cooperation, said Steiner. We are committed to building on that legacy, leveraging on our established development expertise, global network, presence and trusted partnerships in over 170 countries and territories. At the end of this years conference, all Member States of the UN committed to taking concrete actions to reenergize South-South and Triangular Cooperation to achieve the 2030 Agenda as part of the newly adopted Buenos Aires Outcome Document. The conference also demonstrated a growing recognition of the importance and complementarity of South-South and Triangular cooperation. Today, solutions created in the South are delivering lasting results around the world. Colombia and the Dominican Republic exchange expertise on resilient climate-resistant rice production. Cameroon learned from Ethiopia how to best to implement their HIV Safety Net Programme. Cooperation among Australia, China, and Papua New Guinea is piloting ways to tackle malaria. Bangladesh pioneered and online platform allowing millions of people to access free public services online without needing to travel long distances and is now being shared and replicated in other countries. The UNDP Chief highlighted the importance of all stakeholders responsibility and the opportunity to take forward the outcomes of the conference, to use the linkages and connections made to tackle climate change, address inequalities, as well as improve institutional arrangements both within and between countries to improve cooperation and trade. It was agreed that the multilateral development system comes away from the BAPA+40 conference in a better position to support South-South cooperation and implement the 2030 Agenda. Publication: Southern Development Solutions for the Sustainable Development Goals. 4.3 million people remain in dire need of aid in Chad United Nations, Mar 23 (UNI) With Chad at a crossroads of life-threatening challenges ranging from violence to drought, the United Nations and its humanitarian partners appealed for 476 million to support the most vulnerable of 4.3 million people relying on aid in the African country. Violence, displacement and the collapse of basic services have led hundreds of thousands of families, especially the southern half of the country, to be dependent on aid. Cong demands enquiry into Telangana Martyrs Memorial construction scam 12 Dec 2021 | 1:04 AM Hyderabad, Dec 11 (UNI) Alleging a huge scam in in the construction of Telangana Martyrs' Memorial, Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) President & MP, A. Revanth Reddy on Saturday demanded a high level enquiry to expose the involvement of Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao and his family in the embezzlement of public money. see more.. Medha Patkar calls for mass agitation against Kerala's Silver Line Project 12 Dec 2021 | 12:09 AM Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 11 (UNI) Social activist Medha Patkar on Saturday called upon the people for a mass agitation against the Silver Line Project in Kerala. see more.. Pride, Prejudice and Punditry, a book written by Dr Shashi Tharoor launched in Hyderabad 12 Dec 2021 | 12:05 AM Hyderabad, Dec 11 (UNI) A Kolkata based nonprofit trust, Prabha Khaitan Foundation (PKF) which is dedicated to socio-cultural welfare and humanitarian causes, launched the second in the series of Dr Shashi Tharoor's 23rd book "Pride, Prejudice and Punditry" here on Saturday. see more.. Telangana reports 188 new Covid-19 cases, one death 12 Dec 2021 | 12:04 AM Hyderabad, Dec 11 (UNI) Telangana reported 188 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24-hours, taking the states COVID tally to 6,78,142, while the active cases stood at 3,891. see more.. Hong Kong: Michael Wong explains Lantau plan Artificial islands under the Lantau Tomorrow Vision project will provide at least 45,000 private flats, Secretary for Development Michael Wong said. Speaking to the media after attending a radio show today, Mr Wong said the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands will be able to provide 150,000 to 260,000 flats, of which 30% will be private housing. On the calculation of land revenue, if you use the lower bound, it is basically around 45,000 private residential units. Basically we use that as a basis for speculating upon the revenue from land sale in the future. So in doing that calculation, weve already factored in the fact that 70% of the residential units on (the artificial islands near) Kau Yi Chau will be public housing. The estimated land sale revenue calculated at the lower bound will be about $700 billion to more than $800 billion, Mr Wong added. This story has been published on: 2019-03-23. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Shocking to some, but all 50 states in the U . S . produce wine. I know Ive barely touched many of them myself and that is why I was excited to have the opportunity to try a variety of wines from Michigan state last month with the Winestudio program Im part of. Im most familiar with the wines of upstate NY around the Finger Lakes wine region and I could only assume that the climate is similar based on the latitude so they were probably growing some similar grape varietals. I was rather impressed by the wines I tried and its a shame wine regions like Mic h igan arent getting enough publicity and attention that they should be. Especially when there are 140 wineries to explore in this region. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Malcolm Turnbull, the former Prime Minister of Australia, has warned the United Kingdom against using Huawei to build their 5G networks, arguing that such an action would be a grave security risk to the nation. Australia has already banned the use of Huawei 5G hardware in their networks. Banning Huawei Turnbull highlighted the recent hacking attack against Australian political parties as an example of the risk involved in the latest communication systems. The hack compromised data about local MPs and voters. Most experts suspect China to be behind the attack. The former PM stated that he was always wary of companies that would not play by his countrys laws. Its why in one of the final decisions made while I was prime minister, as a decision of the government of course, the Cabinet, was to ban telecommunications companies which could not meet our security requirements, and that included Huawei and ZTE from providing equipment to our new 5G telecom networks on national security grounds We were the first nation formally to do so, and we decided not because another country told us to do so, let alone for protectionist reasons, but to defend our own sovereignty and to hedge against changing times, he said to The Sydney Morning Herald. He said that most Britons were unaware of the security risks that come with 5G technology. Since it has far greater bandwidth and lower latency, billions of future devices all across the world will eventually opt to use 5G networks. As such, those who control the networks will be in a position of power to use them as they wish. Recently, British intelligence agencies concluded that they could mitigate the risks involved in allowing Huaweis 5G equipment. However, the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), one of the top think tanks in the UK, has warned that allowing Huaweis participation in the nations 5G infrastructure development is irresponsible and would compromise the countrys communication infrastructure. Beijings interference is not aimed at subverting the West, but represents a rigorous, ruthless advancement of Chinas interests and values at the expense of those of the West, a report by the think tank stated (CNN). The document was written by former diplomat Charles Parton, who has extensive experience working in China. He warned that the UK was a very lucrative target for Beijing since it has a large Chinese community and an open society. A costly ban? Facing immense opposition in the U.S., Huawei has unleashed a propaganda campaign that seeks to create an impression that the United States would fall behind in 5G technology if it does not accept Huaweis involvement in building 5G infrastructure. However, market experts have dismissed such rumors and affirmed that Americas strong technological prowess will ensure that it easily keeps up with Chinas 5G development. Last year, AT&T announced that it will source 5G hardware from Ericsson, Samsung, and Nokia. In January this year, Samsung revealed that it was tasked with supplying 5G equipment to Verizon. As of Q3, 2018, AT&T and Verizon accounted for close to 69 percent of all wireless subscriptions. Even if Huawei was permanently excluded from the U.S., its (potential competitors and clients) like Nokia, Ericsson, Verizon, and AT&T, to name a handful, have the scale to ensure that the U.S. is fully catered for. Qualities like speed are unlikely to suffer in the U.S. in this scenario, Vinod Nair, a Singapore-based senior partner at advisory and investment firm Delta Partners, said to CNBC. Follow us on Twitter or subscribe to our weekly email If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit Here is how you can help tornado survivors Advertisement By West Kentucky Star Staff Mar. 22, 2019 | PADUCAH By West Kentucky Star Staff Mar. 22, 2019 | 07:14 PM | PADUCAH The McCracken County Sheriff's Department unveiled a new initiative in the battle against illegal drugs. In a statement posted Friday to social media, Sheriff Matt Carter announced a new campaign using what he calls the "STORM TEAM," which is an an acronym for "Sheriff, Taking prOactive cRiminal enforceMent To Ensure A safer McCracken County." Carter said there are very few families in the community that haven't felt the impact of drugs in some way, whether it is crime or addiction. Carter believes drugs are the root cause for many crimes, and he correlated end-of-the-year statistics where drug arrests increased while assaults and burglaries dropped. By restructuring some employees, Carter' "Storm Team" is a group of deputies on special assignment "to specifically and proactively combat our illegal drug problem as well as attempt to locate and prevent any other criminal activity." The team will not affect the level of current department resources for patrols, but Carter says they will "locate and apprehend wanted persons, recover stolen property, and prevent and/or deter crime at rates that we may never fully know." Carter sent a message to those who target addicted citizens to make a living by trafficking drugs. He suggested they change their ways or move out of the county. Otherwise, Carter said they are on his department's radar. "We will not back down until you are held accountable for your lawless actions. There is a STORM coming, and you are in its path," Carter said. Here is the complete release: New McCracken County Sheriffs Criminal Interdiction Team announcement. The GAUNTLET HAS BEEN THROWN DOWN and the STORM is coming. Everyone is aware of the current plague our community is under when it comes to illegal drugs, especially Methamphetamine, and the many crimes associated with illegal drugs. There are very few families that have not felt the impact of this poison in some way. Whether you have fallen victim to crime due to the actions of someone addicted to illegal drugs, have a family member that has been affected by this poison, or know someone who has, we all have a story to tell. From day one, I have pledged to the citizens of this county that vigorous drug enforcement would continue under my administration. I have held true to that promise by ending 2018 with our department's record year of illegal drug arrests with a 48% increase. I continue to stand firm in my beliefs that drugs are the root cause to many other crimes and last year's crime statistics were proof for any doubters that is, in fact, the case. With the increased number of drug arrests, we saw a reduction in many other categories, including assaults and burglaries. I, as well as many other law enforcement professionals, believe there is a direct correlation between illegal drug use and many other crimes that are committed against our citizens (burglaries, thefts, assaults, etc). These increased arrests have been made possible in part by the dedicated men and women that unselfishly work hard day in and day out to serve the citizens of this great community. My decision to restructure and reassign our staffing enabled us to increase our drug division by one detective without costing our taxpayers one penny. In addition to our increased drug enforcement division, I'm excited to inform you about a new program that will begin in a few short days. This program will be referred to as the McCracken County Sheriff's Office "Storm Team". The acronym "Storm Team" stands for: Sheriff, Taking, prOactive, cRiminal, enforceMent, To Ensure, A safer, McCracken County. This team of deputy sheriffs will be on special assignment to specifically and proactively combat our illegal drug problem as well as attempt to locate and prevent any other criminal activity. I have no doubt in addition to fighting the illegal drug problem, these men and women will locate and apprehend wanted persons, recover stolen property, and prevent and/or deter crime at rates that we may never fully know. This team of deputies will in no way take away from the resources that are needed to fulfill the daily responsibilities to our community. I do not believe the answer is incarceration in all cases, especially those that are battling addiction. However, for those choosing a lifestyle and make your living off of trafficking illegal drugs while targeting those battling addiction, you are encouraged to take notice. If you are committing other crimes that endanger or interfere with the law-abiding citizens of McCracken County, you too should take heed. It is a simple but profound process. 1. If you are committing crimes and/or a drug trafficker living in or providing this poison in McCracken County we would ask, hope, and encourage that you reform from your errored ways. 2. If you refuse to take this warning seriously, we encourage you to find another community elsewhere because your actions are not welcomed or wanted here. 3. If you refuse to adhere to options 1 or 2, you can rest assured that you are, and will continue to be, on our radar. We will not back down until you are held accountable for your lawless actions. There is a STORM coming, and you are in its path. Thank you to the multitude of great citizens throughout our community that are always there to support us as we serve you! We will continue our vigorous efforts to make our community one that is safe to raise and enjoy our families while making it impossible for the criminal element to ever become comfortable. Sincerely, Sheriff Matt Carter Advertisement By West Kentucky Star Staff Mar. 23, 2019 | MELBER By West Kentucky Star Staff Mar. 23, 2019 | 07:43 AM | MELBER A Cunningham man was arrested Thursday night after an investigation of a burglary in Melber. According to the Graves County Sheriff's Department, detectives went to a Melber home on March 16 where the victim said his front door was kicked open and a 55-inch flat screen television was taken, along with an Xbox 360 console and games. Graves detectives along with the Obion County Sheriff's Department spoke to 18-year-old Clayton Williams, Jr., of Cunningham. He reportedly told investigators where some of the property was taken, and the Xbox console and games were recovered. Williams was arrested and is being held at the Obion County Jail, pending extradition to Graves County. He will be charged with burglary 2nd degree and criminal mischief 1st degree. Detectives believe a person in Dyersburg purchased the television from Williams. They encourage that person to contact the Sheriff's Department at 270-247-4501 to arrange the return of stolen property. 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. Chinese President Xi Jinping (L, front) and his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella (R, front) hold talks in Rome, Italy, March 22, 2019. [Xinhua/Ju Peng] Chinese President Xi Jinping attends a grand welcome ceremony held by his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella before their talks in Rome, Italy, March 22, 2019. [Xinhua/Xie Huanchi] Chinese President Xi Jinping (2nd L) and his wife Peng Liyuan (1st L) pose for a group photo with Italian President Sergio Mattarella (2nd R) and his daughter Laura Mattarella in Rome, Italy, March 22, 2019. Xi and Mattarella held talks here Friday. Before the talks, Mattarella held a grand welcome ceremony for Xi. [Xinhua/Wang Ye] ROME, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Italian counterpart, Sergio Mattarella, held talks here Friday, and agreed to jointly push for greater development of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership in the new era. The two heads of state agreed to guide the direction of bilateral ties from a strategic height and long-term perspective. During their talks, Xi noted that both as countries with an ancient civilization, China and Italy have profound historical relations. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership, and the two countries will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations next year, Xi said. He recalled that for nearly half a century, China and Italy have respected, trusted and helped each other, enhanced high-level exchanges and strategic mutual trust, facilitated communication, cooperation and convergence of interests, and deepened mutual understanding and traditional friendship. As the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, China is willing to carry forward the spirit of cooperation with the Italian side, strengthen strategic communication, encourage the international community to seek common ground while reserving differences and promote development through cooperation, so as to contribute new wisdom and strength to building a better world, Xi said. China stands ready to join hands with Italy to firmly keep the direction of bilateral relations in the new era, carry out closer high-level exchanges and upgrade the quality and level of bilateral practical cooperation, he said. Xi said he agrees with Mattarella that Italy and China should be partners with inclusive interests and common development, adding that China is willing to enhance the comprehensive strategic partnership with Italy. The two sides need to strengthen communication on visions, consolidate political mutual trust, continue to extend mutual understanding and support on issues of each other's core interests and major concerns, and strengthen communication and cooperation between their governments, legislative bodies and political parties, Xi said. He encouraged the two sides to create highlights in bilateral cooperation, jointly build the Belt and Road, and promote the synergy of their development strategies and the planning of practical cooperation. China is willing to import more high-quality products from Italy and encourage more capable Chinese enterprises to invest and start business in Italy, Xi said. He also urged the two countries to boost cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and enhance communication and cooperation in such fields as culture, education, film and television, and media, so as to consolidate the popular support for friendship between the two peoples. On China-Europe relations, Xi said his country has always supported the European integration and respected the European Union's efforts in solving its problems. Xi said he hopes that Italy will continue playing a positive role in promoting EU-China partnership for peace, growth, reform and civilization, Xi said. China is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with the Italian side on major issues such as the United Nations affairs, global governance, climate change and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, jointly promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and jointly push economic globalization in the direction of becoming more open, inclusive, balanced, win-win, and beneficial to all, he said. Mattarella warmly welcomed Xi, saying he still has a vivid memory of his visit to China in 2017. The frequent high-level exchanges between Italy and China, especially President Xi's visit this time, demonstrated the high level of bilateral relations, Mattarella said, calling China a close and important partner of Italy. Italy admires China's development achievements, appreciates China's adherence to the opening-up strategy, and has confidence in the prospect of Italy-China cooperation, he said. Italy is willing to take the opportunities of the 15th anniversary of the Italy-China comprehensive strategic partnership this year and the 50th anniversary of Italy-China diplomatic relations next year to expand the mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields such as economy and trade, investment, science and technology, and innovation between the two countries, Mattarella said. Italy and China were at the two ends of the ancient Silk Road which had been a bond closely linking the two countries, Mattarella said. Italy supports Xi's initiative on jointly building the Belt and Road and believes that it will be conducive to Eurasian connectivity and common development, as well as to reviving the ancient Silk Road in modern times, Mattarella said. Calling the Belt and Road a cultural exchange road, the Italian president said his country is willing to boost communication and cooperation with China in culture and tourism. Both as countries with an ancient civilization, Mattarella said the peoples of Italy and China have wisdom to address the challenges facing human society today. Italy believes that China's rejuvenation will make new historic contributions to the world's peace and prosperity, he said, adding that Italy is committed to promoting in-depth development of EU-China ties. Italy is willing to enhance communication and coordination with China in multilateral institutions such as the UN and the Group of Twenty, jointly safeguard multilateralism and trade liberalization, and meet challenges such as climate change and international security together, Mattarella said. The two presidents held a joint press conference after the talks. Before their talks, the Italian president held a grand welcoming ceremony for Xi. The Chinese president arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. People wait in line to donate blood at a donation point after a deadly chemical factory blast killed dozens in Xiangshui county in Jiangsu province on Friday. [Photo by Wang Jing/China Daily] People donate blood at a donation point after a deadly chemical factory blast killed dozens in Xiangshui county in Jiangsu province on Friday. [Photo by Wang Jing/China Daily] People donate blood at a donation point after a deadly chemical factory blast killed dozens in Xiangshui county in Jiangsu province on Friday. [Photo by Wang Jing/China Daily] After an explosion at a chemical plant killed 47, residents of Xiangshui county in Jiangsu province have flooded centers to donate blood for the severely injured survivors. There were so many people coming in to donate blood that the organizers at one center ran out of application forms, China Daily discovered Friday afternoon. "On average, people have to wait for at least five hours for their turn," said Meng Xianghua, a member of the local labor union that has been assisting in the drive to build up blood supplies following the blast. He said one of his neighbors came in at 8 am Friday and had to wait until 1:30 pm to donate. "There are so many people coming that we failed to count how many people have donated so far," he added. The blast occurred on Thursday at the Chenjiagang Industrial Park in the city of Yancheng, in Jiangsu province, and the fire was brought under control on Friday. Meng's union has been offering free food and drinking water to those donating blood since the center was set up Thursday. Gao Shuibao, a volunteer at the local Red Cross society, estimated at least 280 people donated their blood on Thursday and the number stood at more than 200 on Friday morning. Zhang Yinlong, whose home is about 20 kilometers away from the donation point, had come in for the fourth time on Friday to give blood. "I came at 5 pm yesterday, but only found an extremely long line. I went back home and came back again at about 8 pm, but had to give it up after waiting for two hours," said the 38-year-old. The welder spent another three hours on Friday morning but had to quit again as he had to pick up his son from primary school at noon. He joined the line again after lunch, but he didn't have any idea about when his turn will come when China Daily interviewed him at 4:30 pm. There were so many donators that the organizers brought dozens of stools to the site so that people could rest after waiting a long time. Many people also came to Xiangshui People's Hospital to offer free food and medicine for those hospitalized. Chen Yueru, a member of local volunteer association, said they have received 2,177 boxes of packed food for lunch, more than 10,000 bottles of water, 24 boxes of ham sausage and 14 boxes of instant noodle and 500 breads at the hospital. She said clothes are in demand for many of the injured as the belongings of many have been buried in debris and stained with blood and dirt. Gao, the red society volunteer, said a company has donated about 600 bottles of a special medicine for wound sterilization and has also sent medicine for the injured. Rescuers work at the site of an explosion at a chemical industrial park in Xiangshui County of Yancheng, east China's Jiangsu Province, March 22, 2019. The death toll from an explosion in a chemical plant in east China's Jiangsu Province has risen to 64 as of 7 a.m. Saturday, authorities said. [Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng] The death toll from an explosion in a chemical plant in east China's Jiangsu Province has risen to 64 as of 7 a.m. Saturday, authorities said. One person was rescued alive on Saturday morning thanks to an around-the-clock search, about one and a half days after the devastating blast. But 28 people are still unaccounted for, Cao Lubao, mayor of the city of Yancheng, said at a press conference. Among the dead, 26 people have been identified, and their next of kin have been notified and offered with comfort and assistance, Cao said. The mayor added that the people reported as missing could possibly be among the 38 victims whose identifications have yet been verified. The blast also left 94 people with severe injuries, including 21 in critical conditions. The explosion happened at about 2:48 p.m. Thursday following a fire that broke out in a plant owned by Jiangsu Tianjiayi Chemical Co. Ltd., in a chemical industrial park in Xiangshui County in the city of Yancheng. Thousands of firefighters and medical workers and hundreds of ambulances and fire trucks have joined an all-out rescue after the explosion. Sixteen hospitals in Yancheng have accepted 617 injured people so far, 523 of which have minor injuries. According to local authorities, all readings by the environmental monitoring system were within a normal range, and drinking water was not affected by the blast. Dams were built to prevent polluted water from the chemical plant from flowing into the rivers. A total of 89 houses in nearby areas were severely damaged in the blast. The households will be compensated or relocated, authorities said. The damaged doors and windows at 10 nearby schools will be fixed in time to ensure classes resume as normal on Monday. (Source: Xinhua) The experimental Peking Opera Turandot is performed in Rome, Italy, February 5, 2019. [Photo/Xinhua] Italian students visit the book fair exhibiting Chinese childrens original books, at the 55th International Children's Book Fair in Bologna, Italy, March 28, 2018. [Photo/ Xinhua] Visitors watch the oil paintings at Chinese Resonance Oil Painting Exhibition, in Rome, Italy, July 18, 2018. [Photo/Xinhua] The experimental Peking Opera Turandot is performed in Rome, Italy, February 5, 2019. [Photo/Xinhua] "Classical stories blending innovative elements provide people a new artistic experience. In the future, I will start to pay more attention to Peking Opera, which is really an ancient and magical stage art, Italian archaeologist Simone said, expressing her love for the Sino-Italian experimental Peking Opera Turandot after its premiere at the Bolzano Theatre in Italy early this year. This new Turandot, adapted from the Italian opera Turandot,is a co-production of the China National Peking Opera Company and the Italian Emilia-Romagna Theater Foundation. Performed by both Chinese and Italian artists, the play incorporates both Chinese and Western drama and music elements, trying to interpret the moving legend of "Chinese Princess" from a new perspective. It toured several Italian cities this year, including Ferrara and Rome. The Peking Opera Turandot serves as another work jointly launched by China and Italy that integrates Chinese and Western art, following the experimental Peking Opera Faust in 2015. It enables Western audiences to appreciate the artistic charm of Chinese Peking Opera in their familiar stories and injects new vitality into Sino-Italian cultural exchanges. Sino-Italian friendship is rooted in the long history of friendly exchanges. In recent years, cultural cooperation between the two countries has maintained a good momentum of development. Especially after the establishment of Sino-Italian cultural cooperation mechanism by the two governments in 2014, the cultural exchanges between the two countries have been gradually enriched, and the fields and levels of cooperation continuously expanded and enhanced. According to Li Ruiyu, ambassador of China to Italy, under the mechanism, China has participated in important cultural events such as Venice Biennale and Milan Design Week. China has participated in the 55th Bologna International Children's Book Fair as the host country, organized art and relic exhibitions such as "Chinese Resonance Oil Painting Exhibition and " Civilization of Ancient Sichuan Exhibition". Chinese original artistic works such as the opera "Red Army is not afraid of expeditions" and the dance drama "Dunhuang My Dreamland" entered the Italian local art festival and received high praise from Italian audiences. Italy has actively participated in Shanghai International Art Festival and Beijing International Music Festival. Important projects such as "Pompeii- the Infinite Life Exhibition" successfully toured China, and Milan International Furniture Exhibition landed in Shanghai. With the deepening of Sino-Italian cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, the demand for learning Chinese language and Chinese culture in Italy has also increased rapidly. Since the first Confucius Institute in Italy was launched in Rome University in 2006, Italy has had 12 Confucius Institutes and nearly 40 Confucius classrooms, with more than 30,000 students registered for study. There are also more than 100 primary and secondary schools in Italy offering Chinese courses, and more than 40 universities offering Chinese majors. In 2016, the Italian government also promulgated the Chinese syllabus for Italian high schools. In the field of education, the Sino-Italian bilateral exchanges and cooperation have also developed rapidly. The two countries have carried out fruitful cooperation in sending foreign students, intercollegiate exchanges and language teaching. The two countries have maintained close exchanges through project cooperation and personnel exchanges. More than 20 universities and research institutes in China, such as Peking University and Tsinghua University, have established exchanges and cooperation with Italian universities. Cooperation in the field of tourism between the two countries has also developed vigorously. In recent years, the scale of Chinese tourists has been expanding, and Italy has become one of the most popular European countries for Chinese tourists. According to Italys official figures, the number of Chinese tourists to Italy reached 1.5 million in 2017, and the number of Italian tourists to China also showed an upward trend. Li Ruiyu said that in the future, China and Italy will explore and strengthen cooperation in the work related to UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, further boost publicity and attractiveness of the twos cultural heritage, and through exchanges and cooperation in this field, the cultural exchanges, economic and trade cooperation between the two countries will be promoted. The deepening cooperation between China and Italy in the field of culture not only builds a bridge between the two peoples, but also provides a strong impetus for the all-round development of the bilateral ties between two countries. (Source: China Daily) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-19 02:36:06|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close BAKU, March 18 (Xinhua) -- OPEC and Non-OPEC countries held a ministerial panel here on Monday amid statements by senior officials that oil cuts will remain in place until June, the state-run news agency AZERTAC reported. The 13th meeting of the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee is attended by high-level representatives from 14 member states of OPEC and non-OPEC countries, according to the report. In his key remarks, Saudi Energy Minister Khalid Al-Falih highlighted weakness in the area of oil investments. "Prior to the last downturn in 2014, global oil and gas investments were growing at a rapid pace of between five and fifteen percent per annum, depending on the year. They peaked at roughly 900 billion dollars in 2014, but continued to fall until 2016, dropping to as low as a little over 500 billion dollars," he said. Al-Falih called the investment recovery quite modest, noting that this year's estimates hover around 535 billion dollars, or some 40 percent less than the peak. "In other words, from 2016 to 2019, the industry invested only an additional 35 billion dollars per year for oil and gas combined," he said. "In the process, the industry cumulatively lost almost 1.7 trillion dollars in investments compared to 2014 levels." On Sunday, Al-Falih said OPEC may need to extend oil cuts until the end of 2019 amid growing global inventories. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 04:21:51|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Two flight engineers of the United States space agency NASA completed the first spacewalk of this year out of the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday to upgrade the space lab's power system. Nick Hague and Anne McClain wrapped up their spacewalk at 2:40 p.m. American Eastern Time, lasting about six hours and 39 minutes, according to NASA. The two astronauts replaced nickel-hydrogen batteries with three newer, more powerful lithium-ion batteries for the power channel on one pair of the station's solar arrays. They installed adapter plates and then hooked up electrical connections on the starboard truss, showed NASA's live broadcast online. The batteries were transported to the station in September 2018 aboard the Japanese H-II Transfer Vehicle. The batteries store power generated by the station's solar arrays to provide power to the station when the station is not in the sunlight, as it orbits the Earth during orbital night, according to NASA. They also worked to remove debris from outside of the station. McClain and another female flight engineer Christina Koch are scheduled to venture outside next Friday to work on a second set of battery replacements on a different power channel. It will be the first only-women spacewalk in history. Additional batteries will be replaced as part of this power upgrade over the next couple of years as new batteries are delivered to station, according to NASA. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 05:47:11|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- U.S. special counsel Robert Mueller has submitted a confidential report to Attorney General William Barr, marking the end of his nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, media reported Friday. The Justice Department notified Congress late Friday that it had received Mueller's report but did not describe its contents, according to The Washington Post. No details of Mueller's findings have been released. It is not clear how soon they will be made public. Barr reportedly said he could brief Congress as early as this weekend about the findings. The Mueller-led inquiry focused on possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow during the 2016 presidential election and whether the president obstructed justice. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 06:07:14|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close SANAA, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed late of Friday that they had shoot down a U.S. drone north of the capital Sanaa. "Our air defences shot down MQ-1 Predator Drone in Hamdan district north of the capital Sanaa," the rebels said in a brief statement on the group-controlled Saba news agency. The group said the drone is run by their foe Saudi-led coalition forces. There were no comments by the coalition over the rebels' claim. Saudi Arabia is leading a military coalition that intervened in Yemen in March 2015 to restore Yemeni President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi back to power after Houthi rebels forced him into exile and seized much of the country's north. The rebels have threatened to strike Riyadh and Abu Dhabi if the coalition forces pushed into Hodeidah, a key sea port for the entry of most food imports and humanitarian aid. The rebels have refused to withdraw from Hodeidah port city, hampering the implementation of a UN-brokered peace deal reached in Sweden in December last year to end four years of devastating war. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 07:02:23|Editor: Yurou Video Player Close Bashar Jaafari, Syria's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks to journalists at the UN headquarters in New York, March 22, 2019. Bashar Jaafari said Friday that the Syrian Golan will always remain an Arab Syrian territory, reacting to U.S. President Donald Trump's surprise tweet that the United States would recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. (Xinhua/Li Muzi) UNITED NATIONS, March 22 (Xinhua) -- A Syrian envoy said Friday that the Syrian Golan will always remain an Arab Syrian territory, reacting to U.S. President Donald Trump's surprise tweet that the United States would recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. "The statement made by the American President and his administration officials regarding the occupied Syrian Golan, and the visits of individuals who claim their representation of the American people, will never change the fact that the Syrian Golan was and will remain an Arab Syrian territory," Bashar Jaafari, Syria's permanent representative to the United Nations, told reporters at the UN headquarters in New York. "The Syrian people are more resolute and determined than ever to liberate this precious part of the Syrian territory by all means, and regain the Syrian sovereignty right over it," he added. Trump has overturned decades of U.S. policy by saying in a tweet Thursday that it was time to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, which it captured from Syria in 1967. Trump said in the tweet that the plateau was of "critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and regional stability." "The Government of the Syrian Arab Republic strongly condemns this irresponsible statement on the legal status of the occupied Syrian Golan," the Syrian ambassador said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 07:22:31|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) meets with Italian Senate Speaker Maria Elisabetta Alberti Casellati in Rome, Italy, March 22, 2019. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) ROME, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Italian Senate Speaker Maria Elisabetta Alberti Casellati here Friday on expanding exchanges and cooperation between the two countries' legislative institutions. China and Italy have enjoyed a traditional friendship, with the ancient Silk Road closely linking the two peoples, Xi said. Since they established diplomatic relations nearly 50 years ago, the China-Italy ties have seen healthy and stable development, and the two countries have become important partners who trust each other and work together, Xi said. The visit is meant to consolidate the stability and strategic nature of the China-Italy relations in the long term, and comprehensively elevate the level of their mutually beneficial cooperation, Xi said. China is willing to enhance high-level guidance with the Italian side, respect each other's major concerns, jointly build the Belt and Road, explore cooperation with third parties, boost cultural exchanges and local-level cooperation, and strengthen popular support for bilateral relations, Xi said. The Chinese president stressed that in recent years, China's National People's Congress and the Italian Senate have established a regular exchange mechanism. China supports the two countries' legislative bodies to carry out multi-level, wide-ranging and multi-channel exchanges and cooperation, and share successful experience on major issues such as legislative supervision, state governing, national economy and the people's livelihood, on the basis of mutual respect and mutual learning, Xi said. He said he hopes that the Italian Senate will continue to play an active facilitating role, and create better conditions for and inject greater momentum into the development of bilateral relations. The Italian Senate warmly welcomes Xi for his visit, Casellati said, noting that the Italian and Chinese peoples have always trusted each other and maintained profound friendship, with close ties in such fields as economy and trade, and culture. The Senate speaker said she agrees with Xi on his remarks about the traditional friendly exchanges between the two countries dating back over 2,000 years, published in leading Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera ahead of his visit. China and Italy are major countries that boast a rich culture, she said, adding that Italy is willing to boost communication and cooperation with the Chinese side in such fields as culture, art, language, heritage protection, tourism, science and technology, and innovation, and encourage their youths to increase exchanges and mutual understanding. The Italian side looks forward to enhancing cooperation with China on jointly building the Belt and Road, She said. Noting that the history of Italy-China exchanges for the past 50 years has been a history of dialogue and friendship, the speaker said the Italian Senate is willing to facilitate exchanges between the two countries' legislative institutions, and continue to make contributions to deepening Italy-China friendly cooperation. Xi arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, March 22, 2019. (Xinhua/Ting Shen) WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- U.S. special counsel Robert Mueller has submitted a confidential report to Attorney General William Barr, marking the end of his nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, media reported Friday. The Justice Department notified Congress late Friday that it had received Mueller's report but did not describe its contents, according to The Washington Post. No details of Mueller's findings have been released. It is not clear how soon they will be made public. Barr reportedly said he could brief Congress as early as this weekend about the findings. The Mueller-led inquiry focused on possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow during the 2016 presidential election and whether the president obstructed justice. The White House said in a statement Friday that it has not received or been briefed on the special counsel's report. "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course," the statement added. Mueller, who was appointed by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein in May 2017, is required to submit a report to Barr at the conclusion of his investigation. Barr, in turn, is required to notify Congress about Mueller's findings. According to special counsel regulations, the report must explain Mueller's "prosecution or declination decisions." Barr has said he will write his own report summarizing Mueller's findings. The probe, which has shadowed Trump's presidency, has led to felony charges against 34 people, including six Trump associates, and three companies. Trump has repeatedly dismissed any collusion between his campaign and Moscow, while slamming the wide-ranging inquiry as a "hoax" or "witch hunt." Russia has denied any meddling in the 2016 presidential election. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 07:32:38|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close LOS ANGELES, March 22 (Xinhua) -- California governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on wildfires in the western U.S. state on Friday, aiming to strengthen forest fire prevention ahead of the coming fire season. Building on lessons learned from past catastrophic wildfires, Newsom's order will direct his administration to "immediately expedite forest management projects that will protect 200 of California's most wildfire-vulnerable communities." "The increasing wildfire risks we face as a state mean we simply can't wait until a fire starts in order to start deploying emergency resources," said the governor. "California needs sustained focus and immediate action in order to better protect our communities," he added. The action followed the release of a report earlier this month by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), which identified 35 priority fuel-reduction projects that can be implemented immediately to help reduce the public safety risk for wildfire. According to the statement, the state of emergency provides time-saving waivers of administrative and regulatory requirements to protect public safety and allow for action to be taken in the next 12 months, which will begin to systematically address community vulnerability and wildfire fuel buildup through the rapid deployment of forest management resources. Newsom also announced additional details on the 50-million-U.S. dollar California for All Emergency Preparedness Campaign. More than 25 million acres of California wildlands are classified as under very high or extreme fire threat, extending that risk over half the state, according to the Cal Fire's Community Wildfire Prevention & Mitigation Report released in January. California experienced the deadliest and most destructive wildfires in its history in 2017 and 2018. Fueled by drought, an unprecedented buildup of dry vegetation and extreme winds, the size and intensity of these wildfires caused the loss of more than 100 lives, destroyed thousands of homes and exposed millions of urban and rural Californians to unhealthy air. The Camp Fire, the deadliest wildfire in the United States since 1918, caused at least 85 civilian fatalities and destroyed over 18,000 structures in 18 days in Northern California in November 2018. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 08:27:01|Editor: Yurou Video Player Close The photo taken on March 22, 2019 shows a view at the 54th International Motor Show in Belgrade, Serbia. The 54th International Motor Show in Belgrade opened to the public on Friday. The fair brought some 400 exhibitors all over the world, with 48 premieres of models from premium brands expected. (Xinhua/Nemanja Cabric) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 08:17:47|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close RIO DE JANEIRO, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Spanish giants Real Madrid are preparing an offer to sign highly rated Flamengo teenager Reinier, according to Brazilian media reports. The reigning European champions are willing to invest almost 70 million euros to secure the Flamengo midfielder on a long-term deal, the Globo Esporte news outlet reported on Friday. Reinier has also attracted the interest of Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal and Manchester City, according to the report. The 17-year-old, who is contracted with the Rio de Janeiro club until 2021, has been capped four times for Brazil's U-17 team, scoring two goals. Real Madrid currently have three Brazilians in their first-team squad: left-back Marcelo, midfielder Casemiro and forward Vinicius Junior. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 09:17:55|Editor: zh Video Player Close CANBERRA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has promised that his upcoming federal budget in April will "drive wages higher." Frydenberg told Fairfax Media on Saturday that the budget would focus on boosting economic growth and delivering essential services to Australians but would also increase pay packets. The Treasurer and Prime Minister Scott Morrison will deliver the federal budget for 2019/20 and are expected to announce the first budget surplus for the first time in a decade. "Our budget will include measures in it that will drive wages higher," Frydenberg told Fairfax. "It is going to be a pro-growth agenda and a pro-growth budget and it's going to do that without increasing taxes." "What you need to do to drive higher wages is more trade, more infrastructure and keep the focus on lower taxes." "But the focus is on getting policy right, growing the economy, guaranteeing essential services, balancing the books and then the politics will take care of itself." Delivering the budget will be one of the government's major acts. It represents the governing Liberal-National Party Coalition (LNP)'s chance to make up ground on the opposition Australian Labor Party (ALP), which leads on a two-party preferred basis according to Newspoll, one of the nation's opinion polls, in the lead-up to May's election. According to opinion polls, the economy is one of the areas where voters believe the LNP has better credentials than the ALP. Frydenberg also announced on Saturday that the budget would include a 600 million Australian dollar (424.8 million U.S. dollar) funding boost for Australia's corporate regulators. A new criminal division of the Federal Court will also be established to deal exclusively with cases involving banking executives accused of engaging in institutional misconduct. It comes after the landmark Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry found that institutional misconduct is commonplace in Australia's financial sector. "The lessons of the royal commission must be learned," Frydenberg said. "My message to the financial sector is clear -- it's time to restore a culture of compliance and accountability that puts people before profits." Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 09:22:56|Editor: zh Video Player Close YANGON, March 23 (Xinhua) -- An ethnic insurgent group, the Arakan Army (AA), continued to attack a column of the Myanmar armed forces conducting security operation in Yathedaung township, Rakhine state over the last two days, said a release from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the defense Services on Saturday. Using small and heavy weapons, the 150-strong AA group launched the attack on the military column from five positions north of Setaung village on Thursday night, leaving two from the government troops injured. The military column fought back the AA group and continued security operation. In a separate incident earlier on Wednesday, two masked men from the AA raided a civilian house in Myebon township of the state, killing a villager who was asleep. On Monday, the AA insurgent attacked a military convoy carrying out security operation and a local district police office in Mrauk U township, Rakhine state from inside civilian houses. North Korean has withdrawn its liaison office with South Korea. The North notified the South of the abrupt move Friday at the two Koreas' weekly meeting at their joint offices in the Northern city of Kaesong. South Korea Vice Unification Minister Chun Hae-sung told Reuters the North said the move was on "instructions from a higher level." South Korea said in a statement that the North's decision to withdraw from the office was "regrettable," but said the South would continue to work at the offices. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 09:27:59|Editor: zh Video Player Close YANGON, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The Myanmar government has appointed U Myint Maung as the chief minister of southern Tanintharyi region, according to an order from the President's Office issued late on Friday. U Myint Maung, the region's minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, will replace former chief Minister Daw Lae Lae Maw who was sacked on Monday and arrested on charge of corruption along with three local company officials. Meanwhile, two region ministers from the Taninthayyi region also resigned as a follow-up. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 09:53:03|Editor: zh Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Special counsel Robert Mueller has submitted a confidential report to Attorney General William Barr, signaling an end to the nearly two-year Russia investigation, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) said Friday. The DOJ notified Congress late Friday that it had received Mueller's report but did not describe its contents, according to The Washington Post. The report was delivered earlier Friday afternoon to the office of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein who appointed Mueller in May 2017 and, within minutes, to Barr, CNN reported, citing a DOJ official. The official described the report as "comprehensive." No details of Mueller's findings have been released. It is not clear how soon they will be made public. In a letter to House and Senate judiciary leaders, Barr said he "may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." The attorney general also said he remains committed "to as much transparency as possible" and would keep them informed "as to the status of my review." The Mueller-led inquiry focused on possible collusion between Donald Trump's campaign and Moscow during the 2016 presidential elections and whether the president obstructed justice. The White House said in a statement Friday that it has not received or been briefed on the special counsel's report. "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course," the statement added. Mueller is required to submit a report to Barr at the conclusion of his investigation. Barr, in turn, is required to notify Congress about Mueller's findings. According to special counsel regulations, the report must explain Mueller's "prosecution or declination decisions." Barr has said he will write his own report summarizing Mueller's findings. In a joint statement, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called upon Barr "to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress." "Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public," the statement said. The probe, which has shadowed Trump's presidency, has led to felony charges against 34 people, including six Trump associates, and three companies. CNN reported Mueller is "still special counsel" but his investigation is "complete" and the special counsel office is not recommending any further indictments, according to DOJ officials. Trump has repeatedly dismissed any collusion between his campaign and Moscow, while slamming the wide-ranging inquiry as a "hoax" or "witch hunt." Russia has denied any meddling in the 2016 presidential election. Trump has been ramping up efforts to discredit the Mueller report. "I have a deputy, appoints a man to write a report on me, to make a determination on my presidency," Trump said in an interview with Fox Business Network released Friday morning. "People will not stand for it." Earlier this week, Trump told reporters he doesn't understand why Mueller is writing a report, but he wants the general public to see it anyway. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 09:58:04|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close ROME, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Xinhua News Agency President Cai Mingzhao and ANSA news agency CEO Stefano De Alessandri signed an agreement on Friday to launch the Xinhua Italian Service. At the signing ceremony, Cai said that the Italian service is a milestone in the cooperation of the two news agencies, which will further strengthen the understanding and friendship between the two peoples. Alessandri said that the launch of the service will enable Italians to learn about China through the authoritative channel of Xinhua News Agency, and ANSA is proud of cooperating with a partner like Xinhua. Xinhua News Agency distributes news across the globe in eight languages --Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese and Japanese. The Italian service increases the number of Xinhua news service languages to nine. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 10:13:06|Editor: zh Video Player Close KIEV, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Trade between Ukraine and Belarus has been rising for three consecutive years due to strengthening bilateral economic ties, local media reported Friday, citing Ukraine's ambassador to Belarus. "We have a stable tendency of the annual increase in trade turnover by 16-20 percent. These figures are significant," Igor Kizim told the Ukrainian government-run Ukrinform news agency. According to him, Belarus was ranked as Ukraine's second-largest trading partner in 2018 among the members of the Commonwealth of Independent States, after Russia, with bilateral trade amounting to 5.3 billion U.S. dollars. Ukraine-Belarus trade volume stood at 4.6 billion dollars in 2017 and 3.8 billion dollars in 2016, Kizim added. Currently, Ukraine imports mainly fuel products from Belarus and exports food, transport and electronic products, Kizim said. He noted that Ukraine would like to work with Belarus to expand trade volume to 8 billion dollars this year. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 10:13:06|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) meets with Roberto Fico, president of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, in Rome, Italy, March 22, 2019. (Xinhua/Wang Ye) ROME, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Roberto Fico, president of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, here Friday on bilateral relationship, legislative exchanges and China-Europe cooperation. Xi said that with the concerted efforts of both countries, China-Italy ties have always taken the lead in the relations between China and European Union (EU) countries. China and Italy can achieve a long-term development of friendly relations mainly because they share similarities in history, reality and future, Xi said. Looking back into the past, China and Italy had no problems left over by history or conflicts of fundamental interests, he said, adding that the ancient Silk Road has linked the two countries together since long ago. Looking at today, with the world undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, China and Italy are both staunchly safeguarding the existing international rules and actively pushing for the building and reform of the international system, Xi said. The two sides are carrying out mutually beneficial economic cooperation and enjoy a broad prospect of Belt ad Road cooperation, he said. Looking to the future, both countries are committed to achieving their dream of great national rejuvenation, safeguarding multilateralism and building a community with a shared future for humanity, Xi said. "China is willing to work with Italy to constantly deepen strategic consensus, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and elevate the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level," he said. Noting that exchanges and cooperation between legislative bodies are an important channel for the two peoples to enhance mutual understanding and deepen friendship, Xi said that China supports the legislatures of the two countries in deepening experience sharing on lawmaking and governance, especially in doing more work for the economic and financial cooperation as well as the cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. He said he hopes the Italian Chamber of Deputies creates sound legal and policy conditions to facilitate bilateral practical cooperation and personnel exchanges. The two countries should also increase communication and cooperation in multilateral parliamentary organizations to make positive contributions to safeguarding world peace, stability and prosperity, Xi said. Xi also spoke of China-EU relations, saying that China supports the European integration and stands ready to work with EU countries to deepen China-EU cooperation. For his part, Fico said that in the era of globalization, all countries are dependent on each other, therefore they should join hands to address global issues. China is an important cooperation partner of Italy, he said, noting that he believes President Xi's visit will lift bilateral relations to a higher level. The Italian Chamber of Deputies is committed to promoting economic, trade and cultural exchanges and cooperation between Italy and China within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, strengthening communication and coordination on global affairs including tackling climate change and implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and helping the EU deepen its cooperation with China, he added. Xi arrived in Rome on Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 10:18:08|Editor: zh Video Player Close ROME, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Education experts in Italy are thrilled by Chinese President Xi Jinping's personal reply to a letter written to him by students at an Italian boarding school. Eight students at Rome Convitto Nazionale Vittorio Emanuele II, together with the school's president Paolo M. Reale, had written to Xi ahead of the Chinese president's state visit to Italy to express their expectations for the visit and their willingness to promote friendship between the two countries. The school is the only public one in Italy that requires students to learn Chinese. In his reply on Sunday, Xi encouraged the students to be cultural ambassadors between the two countries, saying that he was very pleased to see that the students could express themselves fluently in Chinese. Reale told Xinhua in an email interview on Thursday that the students were "thrilled and encouraged" to receive a personal reply from the leader of the world's most populous nation. "The students were eager to share their interest in China with President Xi, and his reply to them was very thoughtful and the students were very encouraged to receive it," Reale told Xinhua. "It helped bring China closer to the students." "This kind of exchange can be very valuable," said Suzanne Jeffrey, a college counselor at the American Overseas School of Rome. "Under the right circumstances, it can help transform a student's interest into lifelong passions." Alessio Treggiari, one of the eight students, told Italian media that "learning Chinese has helped show us a new world," and he wants to go to graduate school in China after graduating from the university. Italian media reports said the letter has helped spark interest in greater cultural exchanges, especially among students. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 10:28:11|Editor: zh Video Player Close SANTIAGO, March 22 (Xinhua) -- South American countries on Friday launched the Forum for the Progress of South America (Prosur), a new regional bloc which seeks the "integration and strengthening of the region." Presidents and representatives from Chile, Colombia, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, Paraguay and Guyana signed a joint declaration to create "a regional space of coordination and cooperation, without exclusion of ideologies" at a meeting in Santiago. The bloc intends to "advance toward a more effective integration, that allows contribution to growth, progress and development" for the nations, said the declaration. Prosur was driven by Chilean President Sebastian Pinera and Colombian President Ivan Duque, with a goal of strengthening regional ties and replacing the 12-member Union of South American Nations (Unasur) which started in 2008. Prosur is a forum "without ideology and bureaucracy, but with a total commitment to freedom, democracy and human rights," Pinera said Friday. The alliance would provide a forum for South American countries to work together, make their voices heard and achieve more freedom, integration and development, he said. Chile will lead Prosur for one year before Paraguay takes helm. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 11:08:15|Editor: zh Video Player Close GENEVA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- A two-day roundtable on Western Sahara ended here Friday with the parties involved saying in a joint statement that they welcomed the intention to meet again in the same format. The delegations "agreed to continue discussions in order to identify elements of convergence," Horst Kohler, personal envoy of the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General for Western Sahara, said in a press release after the end of the roundtable. Kohler said he had "encouraged delegations to explore good faith gestures and concrete actions that go beyond the roundtable." "There was consensus that the whole Maghreb (region) would greatly benefit from a solution to the question of Western Sahara. Delegations also recognized that the region had a special responsibility to contribute to a solution," Kohler said. Kohler said he was grateful that the delegations had agreed to continue and to convene again in the roundtable format, although no dates were mentioned. "There is still a lot of work ahead of the delegations. Nobody should expect a quick outcome, because many positions are still fundamentally diverging," Kohler said. "At the same time, being able to listen to each other even when things get controversial, is an important step to build trust," he said. "The costs of this conflict, in terms of human suffering, lack of prospects for the youth, and security risks, are far too high to be accepted," he continued. The relevant parties, namely Morocco, the Western Sahara's separatist movement the Polisario Front, Algeria and Mauritania, had their first roundtable meeting in December to discuss a way out of the decades-long conundrum. Western Sahara was partitioned between Morocco and Mauritania at the end of Spain's colonial rule in 1976. When Mauritania, under pressure from Polisario guerrillas, abandoned all claims to its portion in August 1979, Morocco moved to occupy that sector and asserted administrative control over the whole territory. Fighting broke out between Morocco and the pro-independence Polisario Front. A cease-fire was signed in 1991 and in that year, the UN mission, known by its French acronym as Minurso, was deployed to monitor the cease-fire. Algeria, on the other hand, supports self-determination for the Sahrawi people in Western Sahara. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 11:13:17|Editor: zh Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury on Friday slapped sanctions on Venezuelan Economic and Social Development Bank (BANDES) and on four other financial institutions BANDES owns or controls, over an alleged arrest of an aide of the country's opposition leader. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement that the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has "transformed BANDES and its subsidiaries into vehicles to move funds abroad in an attempt to prop up Maduro," hence distorting the original purpose of the bank. He added that Caracas' arrest of Roberto Marrero, an aide of the Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, will not be tolerated, noting that the nation's "political prisoners must be released immediately." As a result of the sanctions, all property of those entities that are in the United States would be blocked. Also, U.S. persons are generally prohibited from all dealings that involve any property of theirs. The White House also said in a separate statement that the United States "will continue to take steps to pressure Maduro, his regime, and those who support him, until they step out of the way." The State Department said on the same day that "the U.S. government today determined that persons operating in Venezuela's financial sector could be subject to sanctions." Earlier on Thursday, U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton criticized via Twitter the reported arrest of Marrero, saying that the arrest "will not go unanswered." The Trump administration recognized Guaido as Venezuela's "interim president" on Jan. 23, days after Maduro was inaugurated for a second term as Venezuelan president. In response, Maduro severed "diplomatic and political" ties with the United States. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 11:23:19|Editor: zh Video Player Close CAPE TOWN, March 22 (Xinhua) -- The African National Congress (ANC) is determined to get rid of corruption that has eroded its public support, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Friday. The ANC needs to redress whatever has gone wrong, said Ramaphosa, who is also president of the ANC. He acknowledged that corruption scandals have hurt the ANC and would likely dissuade voters from voting for the party in the upcoming general elections, Ramaphosa said when he was campaigning in Cape Town. Ramaphosa told a press conference that the ANC must tell the truth to the public about an inquiry into state capture, which refers to alleged collaboration between the controversial Indian Gupta family and a number of senior government officials in looting state coffers. "It was the ANC that said there should be such a commission because it was the ANC that realized that corruption and state capture had set in and we felt that we needed to address this," Ramaphosa said. Eskom, which generates about 95 percent of the electricity used in South Africa, is the first state-owned entity probed by the commission. It has been implicated in a series of corruption scandals linked to the Gupta family. Corruption and poor management are believed to be the major causes of the worsening power crisis in South Africa. Telling the truth sometimes hurts, "but if we are serious about serving the interests of the people of South Africa, we must tell the truth," he added. "Those who were responsible for anything that has gone wrong must be accountable. They must face the full might of the law," the president said. South Africans is set to hold general elections on May 8. A poll conducted in February by the South African Institute of Race Relations showed the ANC was losing nationwide public support steadily and especially in Gauteng Province, the economic powerhouse of the country. According to the poll, only 54.7 percent of those surveyed will vote for the ANC, down from the 62.1 percent in 2014. In Gauteng, where the country's largest city Johannesburg and its administrative capital Pretoria sit, the poll puts support for the ANC at 41 percent, a 12-percent drop from the 53.6 percent in the last general election. Meanwhile, support for two major opposition parties, namely the Democratic Alliance and the Economic Freedom Fighters, have been on the rise. The ANC, one of the oldest liberation movements in Africa, came to power in 1994 following the downfall of apartheid. It has remained dominant ever since. In the past two years, British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted repeatedly that Britain will exit the European Union on schedule on March 29 -- she has said so 108 times from the dispatch box in the House of Commons. But on Thursday, the embattled leader, whose days in office appear to be numbered, was forced to appeal to her fellow EU national leaders for a three-month postponement, throwing into deeper confusion a Brexit process that has pushed Britain into a constitutional crisis, dividing the country. May's face-to-face request at a summit in Brussels clearly strained the patience of the EU's other 27 national leaders, who are close to a breaking point. They fear Britain's tangled exit will never get resolved. During the summit, the Luxembourg prime minister told reporters, "We are not in a souk and we are not going to bargain for the next five years." French President Emmanuel Macron was especially reluctant about granting an extension, questioning why Britain should have more time to get its house in order, and skeptical whether it ever would. "We are heading towards no deal," he said as the leaders gathered. British Prime Minister Theresa May leaves after addressing a media conference at an EU summit in Brussels on March 22, 2019. /AP His foreign minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian, told the French National Assembly on the eve of a two-day EU summit in Brussels this week that France would oppose a lengthy Brexit postponement. He said Paris would only support a short extension, one giving the British parliament sufficient time to approve a contentious withdrawal agreement May and the EU agreed to in November -- but one that British lawmakers have overwhelmingly rejected twice. Without that approval, "the central scenario is a no-deal exit -- we are ready for it," the foreign minister said. Charles Grant, director of the research group Center for European Reform, says Macron worries most about the possible "spoiling" impact Britain may have on European Parliament elections this May, if Britain participates as a result of any lengthy Brexit delay. He "fears the U.K. will 'pollute' EU politics if the Brits hang around for a prolonged period," Grant tweeted. After more than two years of haggling with Britain over a transition deal, and amid accusations of British cherry-picking, some of the bloc's national governments weren't that far behind the French in toying with the idea of saying enough is enough, EU officials told VOA. Short Reprieve Possible Led by Germany, prudence overcame exasperation, and French resistance, on Thursday. No EU country wants to be blamed for Britain crashing out of the bloc without a deal. Such a chaotic departure would undermine EU principles of fraternity and would not only deeply harm Britain economically but also several near European neighbors, including France and Ireland, EU leaders fear. Initially, the EU 27 planned to agree to a shorter delay than May requested and one conditional on British lawmakers approving the transition deal, which is deeply unpopular with both hardline Brexiters in May's ruling Conservative party and pro-EU lawmakers across the British political spectrum. But they pulled back, fearing they might push Britain into crashing out without a deal, as much by accident as design. They also concluded, EU sources say, that May would fail a third time to get backing for her deal next week from the British parliament. They wanted to avoid having to hold an emergency Brexit summit next week to consider what to do again, enduring yet more cliff-edge drama. Instead, after running hours past the time allocated to consider the British request, leaving the world's media kicking their heels waiting for a decision, the EU 27 came up with what has been dubbed a "flextension" in a bid to seize more control of the process. Britain now has a short reprieve until May 22, if the British parliament ratifies May's deal next week. If it doesn't, then Britain has until April 12 to announce it will take part in European elections and would then be accorded an extension until the end of 2019. If it has not agreed to participate in the elections, then there can be no long extension. Donald Tusk, the president of the European Council, said the EU decided on the two options in a "positive spirit." European Union leaders attend a roundtable meeting at an EU summit in Brussels on March 21, 2019. /AP Britain's Next Move What Britain does now remains unclear and the drama will shift from Brussels back to London and a deadlocked British House of Commons. There are few signs that parliament will change its mind and approve the negotiated transition deal, one which Brexiters' fear could lock Britain into a semi-permanent customs union with the bloc. Pro-EU lawmakers worry it doesn't tie Britain closely enough to the EU. Prime Minister May hasn't helped the prospect of the deal being endorsed, say critics, who accuse her of brinkmanship, daring British lawmakers to reject her agreement and court the dangers of a no-deal Brexit. On Wednesday, she made a short, defiant statement from Downing Street, one that scorned British lawmakers and deflected blame for the crisis on parliament, in an apparent bid to turn voters' anger on to MPs. "You are tired of the infighting; you're tired of the political games and the arcane procedural rows, tired of MPs talking about nothing else but Brexit," she told the British public in the televised address. The statement angered many lawmakers, who dubbed it toxic and complained it was inflammatory at such a fevered time as this to describe the impasse as a matter of parliament versus the public. "If you are trying to persuade MPs, you don't help yourself by lambasting them," said Conservative lawmaker Mark Francois, a hardline Brexiter. He says if May brings back her deal to parliament, she "will get the same answer." Phillip Lee, a pro-EU Conservative, accused May of stoking unrest by casting lawmakers as "enemies of the people." Some lawmakers said they feel in physical danger, after receiving death threats following May's statement. "It is out of order. Lawmakers do their best for constituents and it is fundamentally wrong to undermine parliament," he warned. Some EU diplomats warned a no-deal British exit is still a possibility. Some are putting hope in the British parliament seizing control of the Brexit process from May and crafting a softer Brexit, even to revoke Britain's application to leave the EU. That hope has been prompted by more than two million people signing a petition this week for Brexit to be abandoned. Photo taken in Kampong Speu, Cambodian on March 22, 2019 shows construction machineries line up during the groundbreaking ceremony of the expressway connecting capital Phnom Penh to the southwestern seaport province of Preah Sihanoukof. (Xinhua/Mao Pengfei) by Nguon Sovan, Mao Pengfei KAMPONG SPEU, Cambodia, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen said here on Friday that the 2-billion-U.S.-dollar Chinese-invested expressway will play a crucial role to boost the economic development of Cambodia and to improve people's livelihoods. Speaking at a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a 190-km expressway stretching from capital Phnom Penh to the deep-sea port province of Preah Sihanouk, Hun Sen said the super highway is the first of its kind in Cambodia. He said the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) is investing about two billion U.S. dollars for the project, which will be taken four years to be constructed, starting from March 2019 to March 2023. "On behalf of the Cambodian government, I'd like to express my profound gratitude to the Chinese government for supporting this project, and to the CRBC for investing in it," he said. The expressway will be built on a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, he said, adding that when it is operational, the firm will collect tolls from road users based on the sizes and types of vehicles. "This expressway is very important to connect the country's first economic pole, Phnom Penh, to the second economic pole, Sihanoukville," Hun Sen said. "We believe that it will become an importantly strategic road that will contribute to boosting Cambodia's economic growth." The prime minister said that the thoroughfare will increase logistics efficiency in the country, and reduce cost of goods transportation and travel period. "Currently, travel between the two destinations takes about five hours, but when the expressway is built, it will take only two and a half hours," he said. Meanwhile, Hun Sen said China's progress has not only given direct benefits to the Chinese people, but also provided advantages to other developing countries, especially those along the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Speaking at the event, visiting Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said as a good brother, friend, partner, and neighbor of Cambodia, China attached great importance to the development of relations with Cambodia based on the principle of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit. "I believe that the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville expressway will not only provide enormous benefits to the Cambodian people, but also be a road of friendship and cooperation between China and Cambodia," he said. Kong said China has so far built more than 3,000 km of roads and eight large bridges in Cambodia and that Chinese aid and investment to Cambodia are "sincere", aiming at supporting the country's socio-economic development and poverty reduction. He said the super highway project was born of cooperation between China and Cambodia under the BRI. Cambodian Minister of Public Works and Transport Sun Chanthol said the expressway will connect Phnom Penh's Pursenchey district to the southwestern coastal province of Preah Sihanouk through Kandal, Kampong Speu, and Koh Kong provinces. "It is a strategic road and is the most important breath of Cambodia's economy," he said. He said the super highway will reduce traffic from National Road No. 4, which is the busiest road connecting Phnom Penh to the deep-sea port province of Preah Sihanouk. "It will play an important role in enhancing the efficiency of goods transportation and logistics system in Cambodia," Chanthol said. "Also, it will facilitate companies and people in transporting their products to local markets or to international markets through the international deep-sea port." The expressway will have two lanes for each direction and vehicles can travel with a speed of 100 km per hour. When it is open for traffic, the firm will not collect tolls for all kinds of vehicles for the first month, and then, it will offer a 20-percent discount for the first year, the minister said. CRBC's chairman Lu Shan said the project is a testament to the solid friendship between China and Cambodia, and is the alignment between China's BRI and Cambodia's Rectangular Strategy. During the construction, the expressway will create 6,000 jobs for Cambodians, and in the operational period, it will provide more than 2,000 jobs, he said. Lu said the project will be environment-friendly and the company will train local staff in the majors of road construction and maintenance, and business administration. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 12:28:26|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close HAVANA, March 22 (Xinhua) -- The third edition of the St. Petersburg-Havana regatta is a sign of the will and desire of the U.S. and Cuban people to reverse the current setback in ties, said organizers of the event on Friday. In a press conference at Havana's Ernest Hemingway Nautical Club, Jose Miguel Diaz, commodore of Cuba's Hemingway Marina, said despite harsh weather in the last few days, the event took place because of the desire to make bilateral relations better. "We currently live a political climate of tension and the message of yacht and sea lovers from the United States and Cuba is that we want to continue being friends," said Diaz. Meanwhile, Richard Winning, commodore of the St. Petersburg Yacht Club from the United States, said that the event suggested the empathy that exists between people who love the sea. "During these last three years we have had a wonderful journey towards this island. This regatta allows us to continue developing the bonds of friendship with the community that loves this sport in Cuba and in the world," said Winning. A total of 26 boats departed last Tuesday from St. Petersburg Yacht Club in Tampa, on the west coast of the U.S. state of Florida, of which 21 managed to arrive in Havana after traveling 284 nautical miles. The nearly 110 crew members that completed the oceanic race had to overcome many difficulties, as a cold front in the Caribbean Sea worsened weather conditions. Despite the storms and strong waves, after only 41 hours, the first boat arrived in Havana and on Thursday afternoon the last yacht anchored at the Marina Hemingway, west of Havana. "We have really enjoyed making this event and we strive to make it bigger and bigger. We are looking forward to future years in which we can work with the Ernest Hemingway International Nautical Club and with the Cuban people," said George Pennington, president of the St. Petersburg-Havana regatta. This event dates back to 1930 when it became the first of its kind between the United States and the island, but it was suspended in 1959 because of the Cuban Revolution. It resumed in 2017, two years after the two nations restored diplomatic links. U.S.-Cuban relations plummeted after Donald Trump became the U.S. president and rolled back the detente initiated by his predecessor Barack Obama. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 12:48:31|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close MOMBASA, March 22 (Xinhua) -- A Kenyan tycoon was arrested with heroin worth 1.5 million shillings (about 15,000 U.S. dollars) here on Friday. The drugs were seized from the car of Abdulmajid Mselem Timami by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. The suspect, who owns a fleet of transport trucks operating within the east African region, has been involved in drug business for nearly a decade, a police officer who declined to be named told Xinhua. Police suspect that the drugs wrapped in polythene bags and concealed in his new private car were to be delivered to local distributors. "He is currently in police custody awaiting court appearance on Monday," said the police officer. The port city of Mombasa has a big narcotic market, where underground drug barons including alleged prominent businessmen, politicians and security officials operate. Mombasa has also been used as a gateway and an exit for narcotics as well as banned animal trophies and products, according to regulatory agencies. The arrest is the latest in a series of seizures of hard drugs in the coastal city. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 13:13:34|Editor: zh Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump has met with several leaders of the Caribbean region to discuss regional issues at his Mar-a-Lago resort in the state of Florida, the White House said on Friday. In a statement, the White House said that Trump on the same day met "with the leaders of The Bahamas, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia." "They discussed the importance of supporting a peaceful democratic transition in Venezuela, disaster resilience, opportunities for investment, and ongoing security cooperation," the statement read. "We announced that OPIC will give priority status to these five countries and send a high level delegation in the next 90 days," it said, referring to the U.S. government-owned Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC). Trump said earlier he and the Caribbean leaders would talk about trade and Venezuela. Also on Friday, U.S. Department of the Treasury slapped sanctions on Venezuelan Economic and Social Development Bank (BANDES) and four other financial institutions BANDES owns or controls, over the alleged arrest of an aide of Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido. The Trump administration recognized Guaido as the nation's "interim president" on Jan. 23, days after Nicolas Maduro was inaugurated for a second term as Venezuela's president. In response, Maduro severed "diplomatic and political" ties with the United States. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 13:48:40|Editor: zh Video Player Close SUVA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Fiji Airports have advised all air traffic controllers to return to work as the authorities are looking into their grievances. The advice came on Saturday as about 33 Fijian Air Traffic Management (ATM) controllers have taken various forms of leave since March 18 while demanding increases in their pay from the Airports Fiji Limited Management. Fiji Airports said a pay rise is under contemplation with two internal papers already under discussion. However, the company said it is opposed to the manner in which a pay rise was being demanded under a threat by the air traffic controllers who have been on strike this week. It also said that in the last five years, from 2013 to 2018, air traffic controllers on average earned 61 percent more in gross pay, for 43 percent less workload in overtime. The reduction in workload is attributed to increase in numbers by 31 percent in that period. Fiji Airports said this gross pay is made up of the three pay rises and multiple allowance increases in 2014, 2015 and 2017, plus promotions within the ATM structure through active training that they conduct with their controllers. The company also said that contrary to irresponsible statements by the striking workers'representative Kolokesa Kini, no air traffic controller has been working continuously for 96 hours. Fiji Airports said it has put in place an approved procedure that significantly reduces the workload and traffic congestion in Fiji's airspace. There are 130 circuit training flights in a day in the Nadi airspace which have been restricted in deference to safety. The company said on average 30 international flight movements and 50 domestic flight movements in a day, which are their main priority. Fiji's Employment Ministry has declared the conduct of air traffic controllers at Nadi International Airport as an unlawful strike on Friday and urged them to return to work. Air traffic controllers are adamant they will not return to work until Fiji Airports agrees to negotiate on their pay. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 14:45:56|Editor: zh Video Player Close A child puts on a donated shirt at a temporary accommodation center in Beira, Mozambique, on March 22, 2019. Victims were being sheltered at one of the temporary accommodation centers set in Samora Moises Machel High School in Beira, central Mozambique. Most of the victims' houses were destroyed by the devastating storms and floods since the Tropical Cyclone Idai hit the area last Thursday night. Drinking water, food, personal hygiene materials and clothes are now in shortage. (Xinhua/Nie Zuguo) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 14:38:48|Editor: zh Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday denied any knowledge of son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner's alleged use of an encrypted messenger app for official White House business. "I know nothing about it. I've never heard that. I've never heard about it," Trump told reporters outside the White House before leaving for meetings at his Florida estate. House Oversight Chairman Elijah Cummings sent a letter to White House Counsel Pat Cipollone on Thursday, saying that he had learned from Kushner's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, that Kushner has used WhatsApp, a Facebook Inc-owned messaging application, for official work, including with some foreign officials. Cummings said he had also learned from Lowell that Ivanka Trump, the president's daughter and senior adviser, is still receiving work-related emails on her personal email account and did not always forward them to her official White House account. In an email to Cummings on Thursday, Lowell denied that he ever told the Democratic chairman Kushner had ever communicated with foreign officials, and that he had followed the proper protocol for classified information. He also denied having told the House panel that Ivanka Trump does not forward relevant personal emails. The U.S. Presidential Records Act prohibits senior White House officials from creating or sending a record "using a non-official electronic message account." During the 2016 campaign, Trump frequently lashed out at Hillary Clinton, then Democratic presidential candidate, for her use of a private email server while serving as secretary of state. Federal investigators launched an investigation against Clinton but brought no charges. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 15:18:54|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close RIO DE JANEIRO, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Former Brazilian President Michel Temer decided to remain silent when being questioned on Friday, local authorities reported. Temer, who was arrested Thursday on corruption charges and spent the night in a room at the Rio Federal Police headquarters, has told authorities that he would exercize his right to silence. The prosecution office accused Temer as being the leader of a group that committed crimes of corruption, embezzlement and money laundering. The current investigation is based on claims that he took bribes from nuclear energy company Electronuclear, in return for favoring the company with a contract for the nuclear power plant Angra 3. Temer's lawyer Carlos Marun said that the prosecution has no evidence against Temer and that he will soon be freed again. "They do not manage, in any moment, to prove anything to justify a preventive arrest," Marun said. "So, we are absolutely certain that this incredible mistake of the courts will be corrected very soon and the president will regain his freedom." However, former Mines and Energy Minister Moreira Franco, who was also arrested, denied his alleged involvement in the corruption scheme. Temer, the predecessor of current President Jair Bolsonaro, left office last year. He is the second Brazilian president that has been arrested for corruption, following Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who is currently serving a 12-year-and-one-month prison sentence for corruption and money laundering. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 15:23:55|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has talked with the head of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Jens Stoltenberg, over the phone to discuss plans of an upcoming meeting of NATO foreign ministers and Stoltenberg's address to the U.S. Congress, the U.S. State Department said on Friday. According to a statement issued by State Department deputy spokesperson Robert Palladino, Pompeo and Stoltenberg "discussed plans for the meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers to be held April 3-4 in Washington, D.C. where Allies will mark the 70th anniversary of NATO's founding and take stock of the Alliance's efforts to address the full range of challenges facing the Alliance." "They also discussed the Secretary General's planned address to a joint session of the U.S. Congress and the value of that event in highlighting the enduring transatlantic bond," the statement reads. The relations between Washington and other NATO partners in Europe have been challenged by potential U.S. tariffs on imported cars from Europe, the United States' plan of withdrawing troops from Syria, and Washington's complaint about Europe's alleged lack of commitment to raising defense spending, among others. During her recent tour to Washington, French Defense Minister Florence Parly reportedly said on March 18 that "a question mark has emerged" over the transatlantic alliance. Noting Washington's "current atmosphere of withdrawal: withdrawal from battlefields, from treaties, from trade pacts," she said that efforts need to be made in "building a European autonomy" as that question remains unanswered. "What Europeans are worried about is this: Will the U.S. commitment be perennial?" Parly asked. "The alliance should be unconditional, otherwise it is not an alliance." Some European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, have mentioned the establishment of "a true European army," which was criticized by U.S. President Donald Trump as "very insulting." Trump said on Tuesday that he might support Brazil in joining NATO, which is also expected to become a topic at this meeting of foreign ministers from NATO members. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 15:33:56|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close People take part in a protest after civilians killed by an airstrike in Kunduz province, Afghanistan, March 23, 2019. At least 10 civilians were killed and eight others wounded following airstrikes targeting militants in northern Afghan province of Kunduz overnight, a local official said Saturday. (Xinhua/Ajmal Kakar) KUNDUZ, Afghanistan, March 23 (Xinhua) -- At least 10 civilians were killed and eight others wounded following airstrikes targeting militants in northern Afghan province of Kunduz overnight, a local official said Saturday. "Fighting and clashes during a military operation have been ongoing in Taluka, an area some 8 km north of provincial capital Kunduz city within the past days. Security forces launched airstrikes against militants in Taluka Friday night, but the strikes also caused civilian casualties," Yousuf Ayoubi, a provincial council official, told Xinhua. The strikes also left several militants killed and injured, he said, adding further details will be shared with media by provincial officials later in the day. Local villagers were carrying the victims' bodies to Kunduz city earlier Saturday to register their protest against civilian deaths and injuries, he said. It is not immediately known whether the strikes were launched by Afghan Air Force or NATO-led coalition forces. On Friday, seven Afghan army soldiers and two U.S. troops lost their lives and several soldiers wounded during clashes in Taluka while more than 30 Taliban militants were also killed and 10 injured in recent engagements. Earlier this month, two dozen civilians were killed and injured during military operations and airstrikes in three eastern Afghan provinces. The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces remain in control of most of the country's population centers and all of 34 provincial capitals, but Taliban insurgents control large portions of rural areas, staging coordinated large-scale attacks against Afghan cities and districts since early last year. President Donald Trump on Friday said he was ordering the withdrawal of recently announced North Korea-related sanctions imposed by the U.S. Treasury Department. "It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury Department that additional large-scale sanctions would be added to those already existing sanctions on North Korea," Trump said on Twitter. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional sanctions!" It was not immediately clear what sanctions Trump was referring to. There were no new U.S. sanctions on North Korea announced on Friday, but on Thursday the United States blacklisted two Chinese shipping companies that it said had helped North Korea evade sanctions over its nuclear weapons program. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 16:19:05|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close YINCHUAN, March 23 (Xinhua) -- In a small workshop in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Li Youxia turns the threads of finely matched colors into blooming peonies on a piece of cloth. Li is a seamstress of ethnic Hui embroidery. The art is rich in colors with delicate texture, and is characterized by the unique culture of the Hui people of China. The 41-year-old woman is taking her latest work to countries along the Belt and Road in April, hoping to attract foreign orders of her embroidery. "Kuwait will be my first stop, and I will probably get an order there," Li said. A Kuwaiti businessman has already seen her embroidery work and discussed business with her last year in the workshop in Ningxia's Haiyuan County. The county, home to a large Hui population, is famous for Hui embroidery. Most local women can embroider, as part of family tradition. Li watched her mother and grandmother weave the threads on pillowcases and shoes when she was a little girl, and learned it by heart. "I went to work for a while, but I stuck with embroidering," she said. "In 2006, I resigned and opened my own workshop." The beautiful flowers on cloth later translated into big business, and Li even launched her own company in 2010. "Local people in Haiyuan are quite fond of the embroidery, but the market was limited, and competition was fierce," she said. "So I started to think about taking my products to a bigger market in China." Li began to attend exhibitions across the country, and many foreign business people showed particular interest in her works. It was during this period that Li's ambition turned from "going to other provinces" to "going overseas." In 2010, she went to Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt to see if there was any prospect. Even though no deals were struck, she saw huge potential. "Local people in these countries were quite interested in hand-made Chinese souvenirs, but our products failed to match their expectation due to strong cultural differences," Li said. So she decided to transform her business by accepting tailor-made Hui embroidery. She also started to build connections with foreign business people at the China-Arab States Expo, held every two years in Yinchuan, the regional capital of Ningxia. For starters, she managed to establish connections with Malaysian and Indonesian customers. With rising number of countries and regions along the Belt and Road, the market for Hui embroidery is expanding. Over the years, Li went to more than 10 countries in Southeast Asia and West Asia. The products Li makes include wallets, scarves, shoes and paintings. Art collections for high-end consumers are also produced. Last year, she inked deals worth about 3 million yuan (447,000 U.S. dollars) with a Malaysian businessman. "I started from scratch, and it was difficult," she said. "But the government supports the development of Hui embroidery, and I am also experienced, so I want to go further in the business." Li's company currently employs more than 30 seamstresses, including eight "intangible cultural heritage inheritors" at city or county level. "We used to be little women spending our days around woks, but now we are independent women making money from the work we love," she said. The monthly salary of each seamstress can reach 6,000 yuan - a handsome income in the poverty-stricken county. "They trust me, and stick with me, and of course I want to help them make more money to live better lives," Li said. Local officials have also encouraged locals to jump on the bandwagon of the Hui embroidery business. In 2015, a start-up training base was established in Haiyuan, helping women in poverty improve their skills in embroidery and paper-cutting, also a local tradition. Local official Li Jinxing said that the base had turned out more than 4,200 professionals in embroidery and paper-cutting. "The embroidery and paper-cutting industries in 24 villages can create an annual revenue of more than 16 million yuan," the official said. Li Youxia said that when production in her company is in full gear, she goes to seek skilled women from the training base for help. "I hope to boost women's confidence in our county, while passing on our cultural heritage," she said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 16:29:06|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close LOS ANGELES, March 22 (Xinhua) -- NASA's InSight lander mission team said on Friday more imaging and testing are planned to further study InSight's heat probe, which has hit a snag and paused digging. The testing includes a new round of hammering, which was last attempted on March 2, said a release of the mission team. The heat probe, known as the Heat Flow and Physical Properties Probe (HP3), is designed to dig up to five meters below the Martian surface and measure the heat coming from inside the Red Planet. After beginning to hammer itself into the soil on Feb. 28, the 16-inch-long (about 40-centimeter-long) probe reached about three fourths of the way out of its housing structure before stopping. According to the team, there is still little clarity as to whether the "mole" -- the nickname for the self-hammering spike which is part of HP3 -- is being blocked by a single rock or a layer of gravel. There is also the possibility that the probe or its cable might be stuck on something inside the instrument's protective housing. If the probe could eventually dig at least three meters underground, the mission team can get useful information about the Martian interior. Later this month, the team plans to conduct a 10-to-15-minute hammering test, which will allow InSight's seismometer to "listen" to the mole striking whatever obstacle it has hit, offering possible clues as to what may be blocking it. Meanwhile, the camera on InSight's robotic arm will photograph the mole's support structure in the hopes of catching any possible motion induced by the mole during hammering. In April, a replica of HP3 will be shipped to NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California, which will allow JPL's team to begin testing in concert with German Aerospace Center engineers working with similar models in Bremen, Germany, according to the mission team. InSight landed safely on Mars on Nov. 26 last year, kicking off a two-year mission to explore the deep interior of the Red Planet. The heat flow probe is one of the three instruments InSight brought to Mars. The other two are the Seismic Experiment for Interior Structure (SEIS) for recording "Marsquakes," and the Rotation and Interior Structure Experiment (RISE) for collecting preliminary data on the planet's core. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 16:34:07|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close LILONGWE, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Members of the Chinese community in Malawi on Friday donated 52,500 U.S. dollars to the Malawians who were affected by floods that occurred on March 5-8. The floods left at least 56 people dead and 577 people injured in 14 districts while over 83,000 people were displaced, forcing Malawian President Peter Mutharika to declare a state of disaster in all the affected districts. When presenting the donation in the capital, Chinese Charge d'Affaires in Malawi Wang Xiusheng said that in the face of the natural disaster, the Chinese community in Malawi feels a strong sense of responsibility to lend a helping hand. "Yesterday, H.E. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to H.E. President Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika to extend deep condolences to the victims and sincere sympathy to the bereaved families, the injured, and the people in the disaster-hit area," said Wang. "The Chinese side is willing to provide assistance within its capacity," he said, adding that members of the Chinese community have always been grateful for the countless support given by the Malawian government and its people. "Although only about one thousand in population, the Chinese community have voluntarily raised 38 million Malawi Kwacha within the last few days. They believe that ruthless floods will be tamed by infinite love," said Wang. The Chinese people feel the pain of the Malawian people, he said, adding that he is confident that under the strong leadership of President Mutharika and his government, the Malawian people will prevail over the disaster and rebuild their homes soon. Receiving the donation on behalf of the Malawian government, Minister of Homeland Security Nicholas Dausi thanked the Chinese government and the Chinese community in Malawi for the donation. Since President Mutharika declared a state of disaster in the areas affected by the floods, a number of local and international organizations, including the United Nations, have responded by supplying support in the form of money, material and human resources to the flood victims. South Africa supported the country with rescue teams and equipment while the U.S. government donated 193,600 dollars of food, health and sanitation items. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 16:49:10|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DAMASCUS, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Saturday the defeat of the Islamic State (IS) militant group in eastern Syria, the SDF spokesman said. The town of Baghouz, the last IS redoubt in eastern Syria, has been fully liberated, announced Mustafa Bali. He also sent congratulations to the world on the elimination of the so-called IS caliphate in Syria. The victory ended the IS rule that once spanned a third of Iraq and Syria. The SDF, with the help of the U.S.-led coalition, has been fighting the IS group in the eastern bank of the Euphrates River region since last September. Late Friday night, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said the SDF and the U.S.-led coalition were targeting a cave where 200 IS fighters were positioned. It's worth noting that thousands of civilians and IS militants have surrendered to the SDF since last December. While the SDF were targeting the last IS fighters in Baghouz, the White House said the SDF forces had retaken the final sliver of the IS territory. The IS emerged in Syria after the crisis began in 2011, after it was formed first in Iraq amid the U.S.-led invasion of the country. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the group's leader, broke ties with al-Qaeda and renamed his group "the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant" in 2013. In 2014, the extremist group captured Raqqa Province in Syria and declared establishment of a caliphate. However, the claimed victory by the SDF doesn't mean the elimination of the IS militants from Syria, as they have sleeper cells which are still capable of fomenting chaos. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 16:54:11|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- A trilateral two-day meeting on the Afghanistan issue ended here on Friday, as representatives of China, the United States and Russia agreed to hold further talks regarding the issue. Chinese special envoy for Afghanistan affairs Deng Xijun, U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad and Russian Presidential Special Representative Zamir Kabulov attended the meeting starting Thursday, during which they discussed the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan and ways to promote peace, prosperity and security in the country. The three parties emphasized that they respect the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, as well as Afghanistan's right to make its own decisions on political, security and economic issues. The three representatives also agreed to continue their consultations, and to decide via diplomatic channels the time and venue for their next meeting, in a bid to further promote the Afghan peace process, for which they will stay in contact. Also on the same day, the U.S. State Department said in a separate statement that "the parties exchanged views on the current status of the Afghan peace process" and discussed "common efforts to bring peace, prosperity, and security to Afghanistan." The State Department has said earlier on March 20 that Khalilzad will host Deng, Kabulov and EU Special Envoy Roland Kobia at the State Department in the meeting. Khalilzad said on March 13 that the peace talks between the United States and the Afghan Taliban have made progress after tough negotiations in Qatar and that conditions for achieving a peaceful settlement have improved. However, Afghanistan's National Security Adviser Hamdullah Mohib said later in Washington that "Ambassador Khalilzad ... doesn't know how to negotiate or in fact there may be other reasons behind what he is doing." He has reportedly refused to apologize for his remarks after the U.S. State Department expressed dissatisfaction. It also remains unclear if the Taliban would like to talk directly with the Afghan government. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 17:19:16|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close KAMPALA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Six people have been confirmed dead and eight others injured after two vehicles got involved in a Friday night accident in the Ugandan central district of Luwero, a police spokesperson said on Saturday. Paul Kangave, police spokesperson for Savannah Region, told Xinhua by telephone that the accident happened when a lorry and a commuter taxi had a head-on collision. "Preliminary reports point to reckless driving as the possible cause of the accident. The taxi driver tried to overtake from a prohibited place (sharp bend)," Kangave said. The injured were rushed to a government hospital in Luwero. Kangave advised motorists to avoid speeding, especially when approaching sharp bends. Uganda registers about 20,000 accidents each year, with some 2,000 deaths, making it one of the countries with the highest road traffic death rates, according to police statistics. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 17:24:18|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close KAMPALA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- As the world commemorates World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on Sunday, Uganda's ministry of health said it is scaling up diagnosis and treatment to reduce the incidence in the east African country. Jane Ruth Acieng, minister of health told reporters that the ministry aims at scaling down the TB incidence to 10 cases or fewer for every 100,000 people from the current 201 cases per 100,000 people developing the disease every year. Aceng said this is in line with the global movement to ending TB by 2030. According to ministry of health figures, TB is the leading cause of death for people living with HIV. "Many people with TB do not know they have it and about 40 percent of those with TB symptoms do not go to the health facility for treatment," Aceng said. The minister said to achieve the set target, government has put in place adequate infrastructure for diagnosis and treatment up to the village level. "All diagnosis and treatment is provided free of charge. Last year we registered marked improvement in the number of people we detected with TB disease. About 64 percent of all new TB cases were diagnosed and started on treatment," Aceng said. A recent ministry of health study shows that 53 percent of the households spend more than 20 percent of their annual income trying to seek TB services. The study also indicated that "for those found with the disease who initiate treatment, only slightly above 70 percent complete the treatment and over 20 percent do not return to complete treatment." Aceng said the ministry is reorganizing TB treatment centers to make them more patient centered and treatment customized to address some barriers patients may encounter. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 18:09:28|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BAGHDAD, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi on Saturday called on the parliament to sack the governor of Iraq's northern province of Nineveh and his two deputies after the ferry sinking accident that killed dozens of people. The governor is to be removed "for the negligence and dereliction of duty and responsibility, in addition to availability of investigations proving waste of public funds and influence peddling," said a statement by the prime minister's office. According to the Iraqi law, the parliament may remove the governor of the province and his two deputies if an absolute majority of its members approve the proposal of the prime minister. On Friday evening, Abdul Mahdi formed a crises cell comprising a university professor and two military commanders to temporarily run Nineveh Province following the ferry sinking accident. The accident took place on Thursday afternoon when a ferryboat carrying dozens of people capsized while crossing from the bank of the river to a small tourist island called Um al Rabeein in northern Mosul, some 400 km north of the capital Baghdad. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health said the death toll of the accident has risen to 96, and 60 others, including 19 children, were rescued. The sinking is the gravest accident in Mosul since the city was liberated from extremist Islamic State militants in late 2017. Angry residents of Mosul blamed the negligence of the local government for the accident, believing corruption and mismanagement to be the cause. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 18:14:29|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close CHAMBISHI, Zambia, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The Zambia-China Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone (ZCCZ) has been commended for establishing a multi-facility economic zone in Zambia's Chambishi town on the Copperbelt Province which has helped improve the living standards of people. The residents of the town are happy with the development and have called for the establishment of more multi-facility economic zones in other parts of the country. James Kabaso, a Chambishi resident, said a lot of people in the town have benefited from the jobs created in the multi-facility zone. Kabaso, an employee of Chambishi Copper Smelter, said Chinese have brought about development in the Township which is solely dependent on mining as its major economic activities. Dalitso Phiri another resident said China is helping developing countries like Zambia strengthen economic ventures for the benefit of the local people. "China has funded most of the projects in Zambia from construction of roads and the economic zones here on the Copperbelt province," he said. And Rashid Mulenga, mayor of Kalulushi town, said China is a good friend to Zambia which was stimulating development in various economic sectors. Chinese enterprises have created some 8,000 jobs in the two economic zones in Zambia in Chambishi and the capital city. Steven Lindunda, corporate affairs manager at the ZCCZ, said recently that 41 companies have invested at the economic zone in Chambishi, while 10 have invested in Lusaka. Lindunda said over 200 million U.S. dollars have been spent so far on infrastructure development at the two multi-facility economic zones in Zambia. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 18:34:32|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BAGHDAD, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Iraq rejected on Saturday the call of U.S. President Donald Trump to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, the Iraqi Foreign Ministry said. "Iraq strongly opposes the legitimization of the occupation of the Syrian Golan. The occupation is a crime against the security of humanity," Ahmed al-Sahaf, spokesman of the ministry, said in a statement. "Iraq confirms that the passing of time does not give the current occupying authority any right or sovereignty over the occupied territories of the Syrian Golan, or the occupied Palestinian territories, in particular Jerusalem," the statement said. Iraq calls upon the international community "to respect the rules of the international law, and to end the occupation of Arab territories, to accept the resolutions of international legitimacy issued by the United Nations," the statement added. Trump on Thursday tweeted that the United States would recognize Israel's control of the Golan Heights, a strategic territory seized by Israeli forces in the 1967 Middle East war. A journalist on a familiarization flight gained an intimate understanding of a system even the most seasoned military pilots almost never touch when he was accidentally ejected from a two-seat Rafale fighter in France this week. The unidentified 64-year-old man suffered a serious back injury in his abrupt return to the runway at Saint-Dizier 113 air base on March 20. Hes expected to be OK. The pilot was able to keep control of his suddenly open-cockpit jet and land safely. He had some cuts on his hands from the canopy glass but was otherwise uninjured. A host of agencies are now investigating and they still havent said whether the seat launched because of a malfunction, an accidental deployment or if it was intentional. The seat is made by a joint venture between Safran and Martin Baker. The passenger would have received training on the operation and deployment of the seat prior to the flight. This Martin Baker compilation of ejection seat tests gives some idea of what the passenger experienced. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 18:44:34|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close JAKARTA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The death toll in the flash floods and landslides in Jayapura district of Papua province in eastern Indonesia has jumped to 112, with 11,556 others taking shelters, a disaster official said on Saturday. Search for 94 missing persons persisted, involving soldiers, police personnel and those from search and rescue office, said Dodi Sambodo, spokesman of joint command post for emergency relief efforts at the province. Torrential rains pouring down the district days ago, had led the surface of water in Sentani Lake to rise, stoking fears among the people and triggering further evacuation, he said. "For now, one of the focuses of the emergency relief efforts is opening transport access, such as clearing roads from wooden logs, mud and ruble, and rebuilding temporary bridges. So that aids distribution can be paved," Dodi told Xinhua over phone from Jayapura district. There are 30 spots where the displaced persons are taking shelters in the district, the spokesman said. The disaster, which struck the district last Saturday, also damaged a total of 357 houses, over 100 buildings, four bridges, eight school buildings, five religious buildings and other infrastructures facilities, according to the national disaster management agency. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 18:59:36|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MAIMANA, Afghanistan, March 23 (Xinhua) -- At least 16 militants were killed and 15 others wounded after Afghan Air Force launched airstrikes against Taliban positions in the country's northern province of Faryab, authorities said Saturday. "The strikes were launched in Qaysar district and those among the killed were two Taliban divisional commanders named Mullah Harif and Ghyas Uddin," the Afghan army's Corps 209 Shaheen based in the region said in a statement. Large amount of weapons and ammunition and several Taliban's command and control posts were also destroyed following the raids which occurred on Friday, the statement added. The restive district has been the scene of heavy fighting and clashes between security forces and Taliban for long. More than 1,000 families were displaced during the clashes within the past one month, according to local officials. The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces remain in control of most of the country's population centers and all of 34 provincial capitals, but Taliban insurgents control large portions of rural areas, staging coordinated large-scale attacks against Afghan cities and districts since early last year. The Taliban militant group has not made a comment on the report so far. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 18:59:36|Editor: ZX Video Player Close KATHMANDU, March 23 (Xinhua) -- China Construction Seventh Engineering Division which bagged the contract of expanding a part of Nepal's longest East-West Highway, has started work on the project. Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday laid the foundation stone, inaugurating the expansion work on the 113-km Narayagadh-Butwal Road Expansion Project, which is part of 1,028-km long East-West Highway that runs through southern plain of Nepal. "The road will be expanded to four lanes from the current two lanes," Keshav Sharma, spokesperson of Nepal's Department of Road, a government entity responsible for developing and maintaining major highways, told Xinhua on Saturday. "It will have three-meter wide dividers in the middle, separating two lanes in each side which will help reduce road accidents." Another feature of the expanded road will be the separate service roads in major urban centers along the highway. "Local vehicles ply on these service roads without obstructing the movement of vehicles in the highway," Sharma said. Almost all major highways in Nepal have just two lanes without dividers and the Nepali government aims to expand all of them into four lanes in the coming years, according to officials. Oli said on Friday that the entire East-West Highway would be expanded in the coming years. "The years until 2024 will be the period of construction," he said during the foundation stone laying ceremony. The Chinese company, a subsidiary of China State Construction Engineering Corporation, had bagged the contract in December last year and it has to complete the expansion work within 42 months. The company was awarded the contract at 17 billion Nepali Rupees (153 million U.S. dollars). The East-West Highway, which connects Mechi district in the east and Kanchanpur district in the west, was built in 1961 and it works as a vital lifeline to a large section of the population. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 18:59:36|Editor: ZX Video Player Close ROME, March 23 (Xinhua) -- While cities such as Rome, Milan and Venice benefit from the vigor and vitality of the Chinese economy by welcoming hundreds of thousands of tourists each year from the Asian country, Trieste, Italy's northeasternmost port, is looking to benefit from the growing commerce between the two countries on the back of better connectivity. The small city of about 200,000, in the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, has been Italy's trade hub throughout history. It is now adding more features to better serve as the gateway to trade in Europe. Business leaders see an opportunity from the expanding connectivity championed by the Belt and Road Initiative, a development initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013 to drive growth by enhancing connectivity across Asia, Europe, Africa and beyond. "We are carrying out a project that has been talked about for the past 25 years, namely, that Italy must become a logistical platform for the Mediterranean Sea," Zeno D'Agostino, president of the Italian Association of Ports and vice president of the European Sea Ports Organisation said in a recent interview. THRIVING PORTS The cooperation has been expanding fast between the two countries that have shared stories of travel, exploration and connectivity since the time of Marco Polo. Italian ports along the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coast are now thriving with growing Chinese cargo, while more and more Italian goods are serving Chinese consumers. China is now Italy's largest trading partner in Asia, with bilateral trade reaching 42 billion euros in 2017, according to statistics from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Italy, meanwhile, is a key trade and economic partner of China. Equally if not more importantly, Italy also serves as a bridge in the cooperation between China and Europe. The Italy-China Foundation said at a meeting in Trieste in February that Italy is the third largest recipient of Chinese investments in Europe, behind Britain and Germany. The high-level visits between Italy and China have been frequent. The current Italian government, since taking office in June 2018, has sent its Finance Minister Giovanni Tria, Economic Development Undersecretary Michele Geraci, and Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio on visits to China. Di Maio's visit was "very well-received," said Chinese Ambassador to Italy Li Ruiyu. CHINA TASK FORCE In October last year, a task force on China was set up at Italy's Economy and Finance Ministry. Foreign Undersecretary Manlio Di Stefano said the objectives of the Task Force include "more access to the Chinese market, better quality products and more investments." "We want to set up a systematic approach," said Geraci, adding that the China Task Force will be subdivided into four general focus areas covering cooperation with China in third countries, China's macro economy and politics, high technology and chemicals, and culture and education. "This could be a way to acquire mutual trust and gain access to the Chinese market," Geraci said. Italian products have been popular in China as people in the Asian country enjoyed rising incomes and a better life. "We expect the Task Force to help strengthen the two countries' cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and contribute to a closer EU-China relationship," said Ambassador Li. ITALY IN CHINA-EUROPE COOPERATION In September last year, China and Italy signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on third-country cooperation. Business leaders from both sides look forward to better cooperation, both between Italy and China and in third countries. On March 8, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said at an event in Genoa that he sees the Belt and Road Initiative as "an opportunity for Italy and for Europe." D'Agostino, the ports association leader, sees the port Trieste riding on the growing commerce as it is expected to have a large quayside, a railway terminal, container deposit areas, offices, parking and a free zone that can be used not only for warehousing but also for assembling goods. The key to a successful port, he said, is in creating added value to the containers. He said the global container fleet is expected to grow 31.5 percent by 2019, and China "has taken on a dominant role" in the container shipping sector. The Italian ports want China's business, he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 19:24:44|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close NUR-SULTAN, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Kazakhstan's capital city Astana has been renamed Nur-sultan after the country's new President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree on the renaming in honor of his predecessor Nursultan Nazarbayev. The decree published on the presidential website on Saturday took effect immediately. The Kazakh parliament on Wednesday approved a bill to rename the capital after Nazarbayev at a joint session of its two houses. Earlier on Wednesday, Tokayev was sworn in as Kazakhstan's president following Nazarbayev's resignation. After his inauguration, Tokayev proposed to rename the Kazakh capital without a referendum. Nazarbayev had served as Kazakhstan's president for nearly three decades since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. He remains the head of the Central Asian country's Security Council, leader of the ruling Nur Otan party and a member of the Constitutional Council. Nazarbayev announced his decision to step down on Tuesday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 19:24:44|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CHINGOLA, Zambia, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Zambia has made use of the competitive and friendly financing from China to roll out infrastructure development across the country, a senior government official said on Saturday. Brian Mushimba, Minister of Transport and Communication, said the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has afforded Zambia and Africa as a whole access to friendly financing and technology. "China affords Africa a long term partnership without the history of prejudice and discrimination which is very critical for all stakeholders," he said. Mushimba told Xinhua that Zambia has taken advantage of the opportunities to roll out infrastructure development such as airports, hospitals and agriculture facilities. According to Muchimba, infrastructure development under the support of the Chinese government was evident in many parts of the country, adding that Zambia was committed to embracing more of such support for sustainable development. Mushimba said the BRI is a game changer in Africa as it has charted and created strong economic partnership than never before. The BRI has a lot of good programs in terms of infrastructure development that can be replicated in African projects, he added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 19:29:48|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close ACCRA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Ghana's "Leave No One Behind" in providing equal access to safe water and sanitation services came to the fore Friday with the celebration of the 2019 World Water Day. The government chose the School for the Blind in Akropong-Akwapim, 50 km north of the capital for this year's national commemoration of the World Water Day. In her message, Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah reiterated the need for concerted efforts to be achieved. There are obvious indications that achieving the SDG target of leaving no one behind is a target that needs the concerted and coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, she said. Government, the minister added, viewed the theme: "Leaving no one behind" as a strategic issue for which reason it had set its priorities towards ensuring the protection and provision of clean drinking water and sanitation to enable the increasing population to have the water they need to lead a healthy, happy and productive lives. Also present were pupils and students from the Mampong School for the Deaf while the choir of the School for the Blind staged exciting musical performances to the amazement of the dignitaries and guests at the celebration. "Government's attention is also on increasing investment in water and sanitation services," the minister added. Although Ghana's urban water coverage is more than 80 percent and that of rural is more than 60 percent, the country still has wide gaps in equity of access. Sylvia Lopez-Ekra, UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana pointed out that huge numbers of people were still living without safe water, including marginalized groups such as refugees, indigenous peoples, disabled people. "To leave no one behind water services must meet the needs of marginalized groups and their voices must be heard in decision-making processes. Sufficient funding must also be fairly and effectively targeted at those who need it most," she urged. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 19:44:53|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian authorities on Saturday directed councils across the country to employ game scouts for preventing wild animals from wreaking havoc to human settlements and farms. Constantine Kanyasu, the deputy minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, made the directive following reports of deaths of people and destruction of farm crops by wild animals that raided human settlements and farms in different parts of the country. He said successful anti-poaching operations pioneered by President John Magufuli resulted in an increase in the populations of elephants, hippos and buffalos that strayed into human settlements and farms, wreaking havoc. "Most of the raids by the wild animals occur in villages located near game reserves and national parks," said Kanyasu on his official tour of Mara region. He said directors of councils throughout the country should set aside budget for employing game scouts that will assist in making sure that the animals were not harmful to mankind. The official said the move to employ game officers will help reduce human-wildlife conflicts in areas adjacent to game reserves. "The employment of game scouts will reduce the amount of money being spent by the government to compensate people who are being attacked by the animals," said Kanyasu. Vincent Naano, Musoma district commissioner, said between January and March this year, wild animals attacked and killed 10 people in the district and destroyed 1,059 hectares of farms. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 19:44:55|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Online live-streaming has helped attract more young people to Chinese traditional culture and created new forms of cultural performance, which is considered conducive to popularizing and keeping traditional culture alive, Guangming Daily reported. The newspaper said live-streaming has rekindled young people's interests in Chinese traditional culture. Guangming Online rolled out more than 30 series of online live streams about intangible cultural heritage in 2017 and received around 30 million views, it said. It has offered a brand new stage for traditional culture performers and brought different experiences to its audience, according to the newspaper. An online anchor, once a Cantonese Opera actor, got popular by performing traditional opera on the live-streaming platform Kugou in an innovative way -- by rapping in Cantonese, it said. Bai Jin, a Beijing Opera actor from a Beijing-based theater, was quoted as saying that live-streaming has changed the content and forms of traditional culture, which previously did not meet the diversified aesthetic demands of modern society. "It feels like talking with the heroine face to face," a netizen was quoted as saying about a live-streaming performance of "The Peony Pavilion," a well-known Kunqu Opera by China's ancient playwright Tang Xianzu. In addition to traditional opera, Chinese traditional culture of various kinds such as ancient garments and folk handicrafts have also found their way to live-streaming platforms. It has not only boosted the popularity of traditional culture but also improved the environment of online live-streaming, according to the newspaper. "Live-streaming of traditional culture means more than shouldering social responsibility and has increased the popularity of our platform," Jia Wei, director of the live-streaming business of social media Momo, was quoted as saying. Meanwhile, the newspaper suggested young professionals in this field learn more from veteran artists and raise their performance levels, and integrate traditional Chinese culture into daily life. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 19:54:58|Editor: ZX Video Player Close by Xinhua writer Shi Xiaomeng BEIJING, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Over seven centuries ago, the young Venetian merchant and explorer Marco Polo embarked on a trailblazing journey along the ancient Silk Road that led him through Central Asia to China. The Oriental empire's abundant wealth recorded in his widely-circulated and eye-opening chronicles of his adventures had inspired Europeans of later generations to explore the riches of the East and ushered in the Age of Discovery. Today, as China is seeking to reignite the vitality of the ancient trade routes through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with partners worldwide, Italy has decided to follow in the footsteps of Marco Polo. During Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Italy, the two countries on Saturday inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the BRI cooperation. Earlier, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said he is going to attend the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation slated for next month in Beijing. Rome's official endorsement of the BRI has made it the first member of the Group of Seven, a bloc of wealthy Western powers, to join the China-proposed initiative, which seeks to connect the landmass of Asia, Europe and Africa through roads, railways and sea ports for the faster and easier flow of people, goods and capital in a bid to share the benefits of common development on a broader global scale. Italy's joining the initiative is a natural progression of its increasingly stronger partnership with China. The country is also a natural partner for China in BRI cooperation. In his signed article titled "East Meets West -- A New Chapter of Sino-Italian Friendship" published Wednesday in the leading Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Xi wrote that the two sides "may harness our historical and cultural bonds forged through the ancient Silk Road as well as our geographical locations to align connectivity cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative with Italy's plan to develop its northern ports and the InvestItalia program." With key port cities like Venice, Genoa, Trieste and Palermo that look out at the blue waves of the Mediterranean, Italy enjoys a unique geographical edge as a key southern European gateway that can link the East and the West. If these ports can reach their full handling capacity, Italy would have the chance to build for itself a competitive global trade hub that can be on par with Germany's Hamburg or the Netherlands' Rotterdam. The BRI can serve as a major vehicle for Rome to unlock its ports' potential for development in terms of expertise and funds. The BRI also offers Italian businesses broader access to Chinese markets. Last year, bilateral trade exceeded 50 billion U.S. dollars. The BRI partnership can help bring more Italian food, furniture and fashion designs to Chinese customers, and inject new impetus into its trade ties with other BRI countries. More importantly, the substantial progress the BRI has achieved over the past years since its birth is yet another key factor that can explain Rome's decision to join the initiative. In the words of Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the BRI is an "economic pie" that benefits the local people rather than a "debt trap." So far, more than 150 countries and international organizations have signed BRI deals with China, including some European countries like Greece and Hungary. Prior to Rome's signing of the MoU, some major Western powers on both sides of the Atlantic rushed to raise a red flag on the BRI's alleged national security and financial risks, distort the initiative as China's self-serving geo-political tool, and accuse Beijing of trying to expand its spheres of influence into the heartland of the European continent. For them, the Cold War seems to be still raging on. China's key motivation to roll out the initiative is not to scramble for control of what British political geographer Halford John Mackinder called the "World Island" which comprises Europe, Asia and Africa, but to promote shared growth and self-development. That's because Beijing understands that in this age of expanding global interdependence, one can only gain when others enjoy stability and prosperity. Therefore, all nations need to come together for common development. Protectionism and isolationism are not a way out. The BRI may be young and is certainly not perfect, yet it deserves patience and tolerance to be taken as a brand new option that could help shrink the global development deficit and bring about a more sustainable and inclusive type of globalization. Italy, a major global economic power, has its own rights and, of course, the ability to identify where its national interests lie. The BRI skeptics need to discard their obsolete zero-sum mentality, and move beyond ideological entrenchment. Before 17-year-old Marco Polo embarked on the ancient Silk Road, he could never imagine his journey would ignite a spark that has energized hundreds of years of East-West exchanges. Now a new spark has been lit. It is time for modern-day Marco Polos and their Chinese partners to write new chapters in the story of the Silk Road. . , 1:0 "", ... Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 20:00:02|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KANDAHAR, Afghanistan, March 23 (Xinhua) -- An Afghan lawmaker was shot and killed in Kandahar city, capital of southern province of Kandahar on Saturday, in a latest targeted killing in the country, local police confirmed. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 20:16:18|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close Undated file photo shows police dog Huahuangma. Three-month-old Kunxun arrived at Kunming Police Dog Base from Beijing earlier this month to receive training. Kunxun was born in December 2018 in Beijing at a healthy condition with 540 grams in weight and 23 centimeters in length. Kunxun was cloned from a 7-year-old female police dog named Huahuangma, which is considered a great detective dog. According to a test by a institution, Kunxun's DNA is over 99.9 percent identical to that of Huahuangma. (Xinhua) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 20:30:06|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 23 (Xinhua) -- China's health authorities and experts have stressed primary-level medical institutions' role in the prevention and control of tuberculosis. China has made headway in the prevention and control of tuberculosis in recent years and the diagnosis and treatment of the disease have been improved, said an official with the National Health Commission (NHC). "Grassroots medical health systems should play a greater role in this field," said the NHC official. The tuberculosis mortality rate has dropped steadily in China, where over 80 percent of the patients are from rural areas or migrant population, which has posed a big challenge for disease prevention and control. "Community health centers should play a greater role in follow-up visits as a way to reduce medical expenses," said Chen Zhongdan, an official of the China Office of the World Health Organization. In recent years, the tuberculosis-control program co-launched by NHC and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has carried out pilot projects in community-level areas including Tongxiang in Zhejiang Province, Wuzhong in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and Dehui in Jilin Province. "These projects have been effective," said Wang Lusheng, a research fellow at the National Health Development Research Center. "TB-afflicted areas concentrate in west China and rural areas. If control policies and measures can be improved in these places, fewer people will suffer from poverty caused by the disease," Wang said. The NHC will initiate a campaign against tuberculosis with other relevant authorities in a bid to eliminate the epidemic, said Li Bin, deputy director of the NHC. This year's World Tuberculosis Day falls on Sunday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:15:17|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Walking in the corridors of the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), Tanzania's biggest referral medical facility and its affiliate Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), one would come across Chinese doctors wearing surgical gowns. Indeed, the presence of the Chinese medical workers sent by the Chinese government is a common feature at the MNH and the JKCI, thanks to the long history of health cooperation between Tanzania and China. The current Chinese medical team in the east African nation, which started work in June 2018, comprises 11 medical doctors, with seven of them working at the MNH and four deployed at the Mbeya referral hospital in the southern highlands of the country. "Members of the Chinese medical team in the two hospitals are specialists in cardiology, neurosurgery, pediatric surgery, intensive care unit, orthopedic and anesthesia," says Qin Chengwei, head of the Chinese medical team, who is an anesthesiologist. "I work for between eight and 12 hours a day here at Muhimbili doing preoperative care of patients before, during and after surgery at the pediatric theater, the obstetric theater and the emergency theater," Qin told Xinhua in an interview at the hospital. The Chinese anesthesiologist says the MNH has three local anesthesiologists, two Cubans and himself, doing preoperative care at the hospital's eight theaters that perform 30 surgeries everyday from Monday to Saturday. He said he enjoys working at the MNH where the working environment is very friendly and "patients are very respectful to the medical personnel." However, Qin said one of the challenges he is facing when he receives referral patients from across the country is that most of their diseases, including tumor, are in the last stages. "The risk is much higher doing anesthesia in such patients," he said. The anesthesiologist said the Chinese medical team is also involved in offering medical services twice a year to rural clinics in different Tanzanian regions. Hu Bin, a cardiac surgeon at the JKCI, said he performs one cardiac surgery per working day in collaboration with local surgeons. "I deal with adult cardiac diseases such as all kinds of valve degenerative and myxomatous. Briefly, I am dealing with heart valve replacement and coronary artery bypass graft," said the cardiac surgeon. He said the JKCI is really a model of cooperation among countries in Tanzania, adding that every year there are more than 10 global surgeon teams that visit the JKCI to perform heart procedures that help local surgeons learn and improve their knowledge and skills. Cui Jian, another cardiologist at the JKCI, works with the Coronary Care Unit monitoring heart patients. At the JKCI he is commonly known as Dr. Richard, his English name. "I have been at the JKCI for nine months during which time I have treated 751 critical patients and I have done heart procedures for 122 patients," said the cardiologist with 20 years of experience. "Doctor Cui is one of my doctors who have saved my life. He is treating me well and I hope to recover very soon," Makame, a resident of the country's Zanzibar archipelago, who suffers from heart ailments, told Xinhua at his bedside. Mariam Mtaula, a mother of a young boy with a congenital heart defect, said that Chinese doctor has saved the life of her 8-year-old boy. "My son has started going to school now after undergoing medical treatment by the Chinese doctor," added the mother. Mohamed Janabi, JKCI Executive Director and a renowned cardiologist, said the contribution of the Chinese medical team to the institute was immeasurable. "Tanzania is benefitting a lot through the presence of the Chinese medical teams. First, China is very much advanced when it comes to medical treatment," Janabi told Xinhua in a telephone interview. "Tanzanian doctors are learning new medical techniques introduced by the Chinese medical teams, especially in the treatment of heart diseases." "In fact the Chinese medical teams are also training our local doctor. We don't have to send our doctors abroad because the training done by the Chinese doctors covers almost everything," Janabi added. Janabi said unlike in Western countries where medical expenses are very high, the medical treatment introduced by Chinese doctors is affordable to most of the people. Ummy Mwalimu, the minister for Health, said the Chinese medical team has been at the frontline in providing specialist medical treatment in collaboration with Tanzanian doctors. "The Chinese medical team is working closely with our local doctors, imparting to them their medical expertise and skills," said the minister. Mwalimu praises the Chinese medical team for their dedication in saving Tanzanian citizens' lives. "I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the commendable services these doctors have been providing to the citizens," Mwalimu said. According to the Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Wang Ke, medical and health cooperation between China and Tanzania began in 1964 and 1968, when the Chinese government started sending medical teams to the African country. "For 50 years, being fearless of difficulties and having overcome many obstacles, Chinese medical teams have treated over 300,000 Tanzanian patients with their diligent work and exquisite skill," says Wang. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:25:19|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MOGADISHU, March 23 (Xinhua) -- At least six people were killed and 11 others injured in twin blasts targeting the buildings of ministry of labor and public works in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday, police and medical sources said. Police officer Mohamed Abdulle told Xinhua that the suicide car bombing hit government buildings including labor ministry and public works. "So far we can confirm that six people died in the explosions while others were rescued from the buildings," Abdulle said. Mohamed Omar Dalha, a Somali lawmaker, confirmed to Xinhua that a Member of Parliament and deputy minister for labor and social Affairs Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla was among those killed in Mogadishu terror attacks. Witnesses said that the explosions were followed by gunfires. "After the blast occurred there was gunfire inside the building," a witness Ahmed Ismail told Xinhua. Amin Ambulance director Abdulkadir Abdirrahman told Xinhua that they had taken 11 injured people from the scene. Al-Qaida affiliated group al-Shabab claimed the responsibility for the latest bombings. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:25:21|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close HONG KONG, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Han Kuo-yu, mayor of Kaohsiung of China's Taiwan region, concluded his visit to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) with trade deals worth 2.47 billion new Taiwan dollars (about 80 million U.S. dollars) on Saturday. Han described his visit to Hong Kong as "fruitful", saying "our products sell well and the exchanges with Hong Kong friends are smooth." Han, who arrived in Hong Kong on Friday morning, leading a municipal delegation of Kaohsiung, attended an agricultural product promotion event and witnessed the signing of eight deals on selling Kaohsiung's agricultural, fishery and processed products. At the signing ceremony, Han said his trip to Hong Kong aimed at "making friends, selling goods, and inviting more friends in Hong Kong to visit Kaohsiung for tourism or investment." "We are expecting closer exchange between Kaohsiung and Hong Kong in the future," he said. Before the signing ceremony, Han met with Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive Carrie Lam, who said more high-quality agricultural and fisheries products are welcome to be exported from Kaohsiung to Hong Kong or be re-exported via Hong Kong to other places in the future. On Friday evening, Han had dinner with Wang Zhimin, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, and then toured the Victoria Harbor by ferry with about 50 representatives of Hong Kong tourism industry. The delegation left Hong Kong on Saturday morning and headed for Macao via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. On the world's longest cross-sea bridge, Han said the "heartshaking" bridge, with "amazing scene" and "smart design", could provide example and experience for bridge construction all over the world. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:30:22|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close An Afghan policeman stands guard after a lawmaker was killed in Kandahar city, capital of Kandahar province, Afghanistan, March 23, 2019. An Afghan lawmaker was shot dead in Kandahar city, capital of southern province of Kandahar on Saturday, in a latest targeted killing in the country, local police confirmed. (Xinhua/Sanaullah Seiam) KANDAHAR, Afghanistan, March 23 (Xinhua) -- An Afghan lawmaker was shot dead in Kandahar city, capital of southern province of Kandahar on Saturday, in a latest targeted killing in the country, local police confirmed. "Obaidullah Barakzai, an influential politician and representative of southern Uruzgan province in Wolesi Jirga or Lower House of National Parliament, was shot and killed by gunmen in Police District 6 of the city," provincial police chief Gen. Tadeen Khan told Xinhua. An investigation has been undertaken, he said. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani described the attack as an act of terror and extended condolences to the family of Barakzai and the people of Afghanistan, according to a Presidential Palace statement. In late 2016, Barakzai's son was killed following a terrorist attack in Kabul. No group or individual has claimed responsibility for the attack so far and Taliban militants denied involvement of their fighters in the attack. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:35:23|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close by Murad Abdo ADEN, Yemen, March 23 (Xinhua) -- After four years of internal military conflict, interventions of regional countries continue to push the Yemeni warring factions for new rounds of violence, said Yemeni experts and analysts. Rather than providing a solution for the civil war that enters its fifth year, the regional interventions in Yemen's affairs merely added fuel to the fire and contributed to its longevity. Yemeni experts and observers say tensions and divisions continue to deepen following four years of armed confrontations between the Iran-backed Shiite Houthi rebels and the government forces backed by Saudi Arabia. Adel Al-Shuja'a, a politics professor from Sanaa University, pointed to the involvement of foreign and neighboring countries in Yemen's internal affairs as the main factor that aggravated the crisis in the war-torn country. "The foreign interventions, particularly from the neighboring and regional powers, did not only provoke conflict in the country, but rather work on fuelling it," the professor told Xinhua. "The major hindrances for any political settlement in Yemen are caused by the intervening countries that mainly concentrate on its own interests and neglect Yemen's interest," he said. Al-Shuja'a expected that Yemen's conflict won't cease easily after four years of deadly conflict, saying the situation in Yemen, entangled with foreign interests, will be more complicated, even with the emergence of new political players in the fifth year. "Yemen's political parties no longer have the ability to decide the fate of their country because they have fully submitted their decisions to external agents and have become mere tools of others," he concluded. On March 25, Saudi Arabia and a group of Arab states began launching a large-scale air campaign against the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, who invaded the capital Sanaa militarily and seized most of the northern Yemeni provinces. Saudi Arabia's intervention aims to support the internationally recognized government of Yemen's President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, but war is still raging in various parts of the country. Other Yemeni experts believe Yemen's current political parties are divided and do not have a clear vision for the war-ravaged Arab country, which is the main reason for the country's prolonged bloody conflict. "Yemen is in a pressing need for an innovative national body that has the ability to outline a clear vision of the country that is still suffering from this conflict for the fifth year," Nabil Al-Sufi, a writer and political analyst, told Xinhua. "The Houthis are a militant group with no possibility of becoming a political party, because they were designed as an Iranian experience and prefer to remain as the sole ruling power above all country's political parties," he explained. It is impossible to achieve a political settlement in the existence of such divided parties and militant groups, Sufi concluded, as "every local party or group wants to be the decision-maker for this country alone." Several rounds of peace talks were conducted between the two warring sides under the auspices of the United Nations and the international community, but failed to bring an end to the country's conflict and achieve permanent peace. Last December, Yemen's government and Houthi rebels participated in UN-facilitated negotiations in Sweden and signed the Stockholm Agreement which called for the withdrawal of forces on both sides from the strategic city of Hodeidah after months of deadly fighting in the Red Sea port city. It was highly hoped that the Stockholm Agreement on Hodeidah should pave the way for permanent peace in the impoverished Arab country as the first step to end years of suffering of Yemenis. However, all provisions of the agreement were not implemented, and both Yemeni warring parties failed to withdraw their forces from the city's ports or surrounding outskirts and continued to prepare for new military escalation. "There are a number of huge obstacles that delayed or stopped making progress toward a peaceful settlement to end the suffering of 30 million Yemenis," Abdul-Raqeeb Hidyani, a political observer and writer, told Xinhua. "The regional countries leading the ongoing military operations in Yemen have the upper hand to terminate or escalate conflict in this country, but those countries involved in this crisis have different goals and agendas linked to their own interests and don't serve Yemen's stability," Hidyani explained. The long-running Yemeni conflict has caused the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Currently, some 24 million Yemenis, or 80 percent of the entire population, need humanitarian aid and protection, with some 20 million lacking security of food, according to the United Nations. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:35:24|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close LONDON, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Holding an EU flag, Clem Ruttet from Kent was walking in the London street between Westminster Abbey and the Houses of the Parliament to protest against Brexit. "My daughter studied in Spain years ago and she could have been a teacher in Spain and could retire there without a Spanish nationality, but because of Brexit, she can just come back and teach in the UK now," he said. If the UK remains in the EU, his daughter could work in Spain without being a Spanish, he added. One of his friends, aged 73, with stomach, heart and cancer problems, has lived in France for the last 13 years and now can't live there any more because of Brexit, he said. The uncertainty of Brexit has given rise to anxiety among the British. "We should remain in the EU," Ruttet said: "We need to get our voice into the parliament." The UK was set to leave the EU on March 29. The European Council on Thursday committed to agreeing to an extension until May 22 on condition that British Prime Minister Theresa May's deal would be passed in the parliament in the coming days. The deal has been rejected twice by the British parliament since January. A poll by Sky News on March 20 reveals that nine in ten Britons think that the way the UK is dealing with Brexit is a "national humiliation". "It's a shame," said Amanda Hopkins whose job is to organize events. She said if the UK really leaves the EU, then that will have a huge impart on her daily life. She had heard some Britons were preparing and storing food, medicine and the like for fear of a shortage caused by the uncertainty of Brexit and she may consider doing the same thing. "Companies like Nissan are leaving the UK and many people will lose jobs. It's just beginning if the chaos keep continuing," she said: "I know it is impossible but I am still hoping for a second referendum, because we should remain." Katy Brookes, a young woman without a job, has taken actions to stockpile food to prepare for the uncertainty of Brexit already. "Nobody knows what will happen in the next," she said. As an ordinary person, her daily life will be affected by the price fluctuations of food likely to be caused by the uncertainty of Brexit. Similarly, Julia Chen, who established the company, the Cheeky Panda, with her husband in the UK three years ago, has made preparation too. The Cheeky Panda is an innovative company, making tissues and wipes from virgin bamboo for markets both in the UK and European countries. Chen said, long before the first time May's deal was rejected in the parliament, they had felt the uncertainty of Brexit and registered a new company in Europe. "We don't know what will happen actually, but we think preparation should be made in advance for the uncertainty of Brexit," she said. When those who prefer to remain in the EU are worried about a deal or no-deal Brexit which will make a huge difference to them, the others who prefer to leave the EU are worried about remaining too. "Hoot, respect leave vote." Michelle Megan, wearing a red vest with the message, stood near the west gates of the Palace of Westminster. She said that she has protested here for more than three months. "I have been here since the New Year," Megan said, adding she has suffered enough with the no-progressing outcomes of the negotiations that May has had with the EU. "If there will be an extension, that means the members of parliament (MPs) want to remain in the EU and they are going to stop exiting EU now," Megan said: "If we are betrayed by the parliament, what I can do is just to stand here in the next weeks to make my voice heard by more people, because I don't have any other power." "Nobody can predict the future of the UK now," said Clare Camborn, a woman who lives in London and voted to leave at the time of the referendum in 2016. She echoed Megan's view that they are taking preparation too. "We need to keep fighting for Brexit," she stressed, adding that some leavers were preparing a huge march going from the north of the UK down to London "gathering everyone who voted to leave". "If Britain must leave, then a soft Brexit is acceptable," said David Naslin, a remainer who has protested outside the Palace of Westminster many times. "Otherwise, it would be a disaster to both the UK and the EU." Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:35:25|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close GUANGZHOU, March 23 (Xinhua) -- China recorded 23,219 cases of voluntary organ donations, with 64,087 organs donated, from 2010 to the end of February this year, official figure showed Saturday. Since China made posthumous voluntary donation the only legitimate source of organs in 2015, the country saw an annual increase of over 20 percent in donation cases, said Huang Jiefu, director of the China National Organ Donation and Transplantation Committee. "China has developed a nation-wide system of voluntary organ donation and achieved healthy and sustainable development in the area," said Huang at a biotech innovation conference in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province. In China, about 300,000 patients need organ transplants each year. More than 992,000 voluntary organ donors have registered across the country. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:40:27|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close MACAO, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Chief Executive of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chui Sai On met on Saturday with Han Kuo-yu, mayor of Kaohsiung, China's Taiwan, on promoting economic and trade exchanges between the two regions. Chui said that after its returning to the motherland 20 years ago, the Macao SAR has made great progresses in such areas as economic development, social stability, people's livelihoods as well as cultural development, making Macao one of the richest and safest cities in the world. The recent-issued Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area defines clearly the role of Macao in national development strategy, and provides new spaces and more opportunities for Macao's development, he added. He noted that as Macao and Taiwan have deep historical relationship with close contacts in terms of people-to-people exchanges and cooperation in various sectors, it is necessary to push forward the friendly relations between their peoples, so as to continue to improve their well-being. Han said that he was impressed by Macao's rapid socio-economic development, adding that there was great potential for cooperation between the two places, particularly in the exports of agricultural products. He hoped that Macao and Taiwan would strengthen their economic and trade exchanges, and promote bilateral cooperation in tourism and culture. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 21:45:27|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close AUCKLAND, March 23 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand ethnic communities celebrated the Race Relations Day with multicultural performance and national solidarity Friday night. The Fourth Race Relations Day Multicultural Festival was hosted by the Federation of the Chinese Association of New Zealand, which is dedicated to foster a vibrant community for Chinese New Zealanders. The event came after last Friday's Christchurch terrorist attack, which killed 50 people. Participants paid tribute to the innocent victims and vowed to stay together with love and unity. Steven Wong, director of the Federation of the Chinese Association of New Zealand, said in the opening remark that the United Nations' Race Relations Day is celebrated by New Zealand ethnic communities as they live peacefully together. "We strongly condemn the act of racism and terrorism. New Zealand Chinese community loves peace and lives harmoniously with many other ethnic groups in New Zealand. By hosting this event, we are showcasing a rich culture and peaceful cohabitation of ethnic groups in New Zealand society," said Wong. Tang Xin, Consul of China's Consulate-General in Auckland, praised the New Zealand Chinese community for its contribution and commitment to the New Zealand multicultural society, citing the generous donation made by the local and visiting Teochow group for the Christchurch attack victims. Tang also reiterated the strong relations between China and New Zealand and its cooperation in the Belt and Road Initiative. Guests of the day included members of parliament from the governing Labour Party, opposition National Party and Act Party, city councilors, local board members and community leaders. On behalf of the minister for ethnic communities, Hon Carmel Sepuloni led the Labour Party MPs by addressing the importance of multiculturalism and social diversity. "We are a country with 200 ethnic groups and 160 ethnic languages. We stay together to celebrate our multi-culture. We give no tolerance to racism and cultural discrimination," she said. Auckland Mayor Phil Goff began his speech by tri-lingual greetings to the audience, who are a mix of ethnic identities. Goff denounced the Christchurch gunman's motivation. "New Zealanders are committed to build a society that harbours cultural and religious freedom. The killer failed to separate us. Rather, New Zealanders are stronger and united with love and hope." National MP Hon Alfred Ngaro acknowledged the Federation of the Chinese Association of New Zealand in his speech for its efforts to unite the ethnic groups and to celebrate "our culture, our people and our language" for hosting the Race Relations Day Multicultural Festival for four consecutive years. Performers from Chinese, Russian, Chilean, Korean, Mongolian, Romanian, Spain and Pacific background showcased their ethnic dances, music and instrument at Saturday night's Multicultural Festival. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:00:37|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close MACAO, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The visiting delegation from Kaohsiung of China's Taiwan region has signed 23.3 million U.S. dollars worth of agriculture and fishery product contracts with buyers from the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), the SAR's financial chief said here on Saturday. Leong Vai Tac, the secretary for economy and finance of the Macao SAR government, said that there were 49 companies from Macao and Kaohsiung signing 27 longterm contracts, with a total sum of 188 million patacas (about 23.3 million U.S. dollars). The products ordered by Macao's supermarkets and food suppliers include fish, pineapples and other agricultural specialties of Kaohsiung. The contracts were signed during a promotion event attended by Leong and Kaohsiung Mayor Han Kuo-yu, who led the municipal delegation to visit Macao on Saturday after his trip to Hong Kong SAR. Han will also visit Shenzhen of Guangdong Province and Xiamen of Fujian Province. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:05:38|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close Pakistani soldiers march during the Republic Day parade in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan, March 23, 2019. Pakistan observed its 79th Republic Day on Saturday and vowed to achieve the goal of reforming the country into a welfare state, according to commemorating messages by the country's top leadership. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) ISLAMABAD, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan observed its 79th Republic Day on Saturday and vowed to achieve the goal of reforming the country into a welfare state, according to commemorating messages by the country's top leadership. President Arif Alvi addressed a military parade here that the nation had overcome challenges pertaining to extremism and terrorism, but Pakistan is yet to make efforts for excelling on social and economic fronts to deal with the challenges of poverty, hunger, unemployment and extremist mindset. "Pakistan believes in dialogue and peaceful means to resolve the issues and it desires to move forward by leaving behind the bitterness of past," the president added. Prime Minister Imran Khan in a separate message expressed resolve to establish a welfare state, whereby every person can contribute towards socio-economic development to the best of their ability. Pakistan wishes to have good relations with all its neighbors and wants to play its role in poverty alleviation in the region, said Khan. The Republic Day, also known as the Pakistan Day, commemorates March 23, 1940 when a resolution was passed in Lahore, now Pakistan's eastern city, to demand a separate homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent from the British. The military parade was held at the Shakarparian Parade Ground in Islamabad, which was attended by the country's leaders and guests from within and without the country. A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Armed Forces presented the guard of honor followed by the march-past. Various contingents from China, Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Bahrain, Sri Lanka and Brunei participated in the parade and airshow, according to the Pakistan army's media wing the Inter-Services Public Relations. A fleet of fighter jets, including the JF-17 Thunder and F-16, and helicopters from the Pakistan Air Force performed a fly-past. A group of J-10 fighter jets of China's Bayi Aerobatic Team also performed during the parade and received warm applaud from the hundreds of people presented at the venue. A special award distribution ceremony would also be held at the President House on Saturday evening where notables, including foreigners, would be conferred upon Pakistan civil awards in recognition of their services in their respective fields for the development of Pakistan. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:16:51|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close Two one-horned rhinos from Nepal eat at Shanghai Wild Animal Park in east China's Shanghai, March 23, 2019. Two one-horned rhinos from Nepal, named Soaltee and Mitini, made their first public appearance on Saturday at Shanghai Wild Animal Park. This rare species is now living in just a few Asian countries. Both Soaltee, the male, and Mitini, the female, now weigh over 1,000 kilograms. (Xinhua/Fan Jun) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:15:42|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MOSCOW, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Russian Su-27 fighters escorted U.S. B-52H strategic bombers twice in a day over the neutral waters of the Baltic Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry said Saturday. Two U.S. aircraft were detected by Russian airspace control devices at a considerable distance from the state border, and the Russian jets took off to accompany them, the ministry said on Facebook. The crews of the Su-27 fighters did not allow the U.S. bombers to approach the Russian border, it said in a statement, without disclosing the date of the incident. According to Russia's National Center for Defense Management, the aircraft of the U.S. strategic air force have carried out seven flights over the Baltic Sea since March 14. Media said that Washington recently deployed six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to Europe for "theater integration and flying training" drills with regional allies and North Atlantic Treaty Organization partners. The appearance of U.S. bombers near Russian borders created additional tension, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a briefing on Thursday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:20:43|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close RAMALLAH, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The Palestinian Foreign Ministry on Saturday rejected U.S. President Donald Trump's tweeted recognition of Israel's sovereignty over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights as "a boost to colonialism and the acquisition of territory by force." "The American and Israeli positions calling for recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan are contrary to international law and constitute a flagrant violation of international legality and its relevant resolutions, in particular the resolution 497," the ministry said in a statement. The U.S. move reflects "attempts by the Trump administration to topple the foundations of international order while hijacking and controlling it," the statement added. The Palestinian foreign ministry urged regional countries to unite against "the American bias toward the Israeli occupation." Israel occupied the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 Middle East war and then annexed it in 1981, in a move that has never been recognized by the international community. Earlier in the day, Secretary General of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Saed Erekat told the official Palestinian radio station Voice of Palestine that the next step for the U.S. government "would be to annex the West Bank and recognize a state in Gaza under the banner of Hamas." Trump's declaration "reflects that we are living in a era beyond the international, international legitimacy and the world order that has been consolidated for over thousands of years," said Erekat. Trump on Thursday called for officially recognizing Israel's sovereignty over Golan in a tweet. "After 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel's Sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability!" Trump tweeted. Israeli public radio said Trump is expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington next week. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:35:46|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, March 23 (Xinhua) -- At least six people were killed and 13 others injured when a wall of a private school collapsed in Pakistan's east Gujranwala district on Saturday, local reports said. The incident happened during a prize distribution ceremony. The killed children were performing on stage when the wall collapsed on them, police said, adding that the parents of the students were also watching the performance. Five students and a mother of one student were killed. The injured included teachers and students. The injured people were shifted to a nearby hospital where several of them are said to be in critical condition. Police said that the wall got dilapidated due to water seepage caused by continuous rains in the district over the last two months. Chief Minister of Punjab Usman Buzdar expressed sorrow over the incident and ordered an inquiry into it, besides directing hospital authorities to provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured students and teachers. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:35:46|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close PARIS, March 23 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday hailed U.S.-backed forces' successful operation to liberate the Islamic State's (IS) last pocket of resistance in eastern Syria, stressing that a "major danger for France" had been eliminated. "Syrian Democratic Forces announced that the last bastion of Daesh had fallen. I pay tribute to our partners and the armies of the international coalition, in which France takes part. They fought the terrorists with determination, for our security," Macron wrote in a Twitter message. "A huge step is reached today: a major danger for our country is eliminated," he said. Meanwhile, he warned "the threat remains and the fight against terrorist groups must continue." In a press release, French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean Yves Le Drian paid tribute "to the courage, determination and efficiency of these free fighters" who had led "to a final victory in the city of Baghouz." However, "Greatest determination remains necessary to prevent the resurgence of Daesh," he stressed, adding that Paris would continue combating terrorism and energizing diplomatic efforts to reach political solution in Syria. U.S.-backed forces announced, earlier on Saturday, the "total elimination" of the Islamic State after they had captured the group's last territory in eastern Syria area of Baghouz. France was one of the first European countries to join the international coalition against the IS. Its fighter jets bombed the group in Iraq in 2014 and then IS targets in Syria a year later. Around 1,200 troops including special forces have been based in the north of the country, deployed alongside local Kurdish and Arab forces. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:50:49|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MOGADISHU, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Somali government on Saturday mourned the death of deputy minister for labor and social affairs Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla who was among six people killed in the car bombing attack in Mogadishu. Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire led other government officials in sending condolences messages to the families of the victims killed when suicide car bombing hit government buildings housing ministries of and public works. The prime minister also condemned the terrorist attack and vowed to defeat extremism. A security officer said five al-Shabab attackers were killed during the operation, adding that gunfire was heard at the building housing the two ministries. The al-Shabab, an al-Qaida linked terrorist group, claimed responsibility for the attack, claiming one of its fighters entered the two buildings with a car laden with explosives and carried out the attack. The latest attack came as Somali security forces are vacating their military bases in protest of unpaid salaries, stoking fear among the residents that the al-Shabab may take over the abandoned bases. However, the government refuted such allegations, saying the soldiers are paid regularly and on time, adding that soldiers who have not received their salaries refused to register themselves under biometric system which was put in place to weed out fraud. Hong Kong: Acting CE responds to US report Acting Chief Executive Matthew Cheung today said foreign governments should not interfere in Hong Kongs internal affairs. Mr Cheung was responding to the US Department of States Hong Kong Policy Act Report. He told reporters the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government handles Hong Kongs internal affairs in strict accordance with the Basic Law. Since the return to the motherland, the HKSAR has been exercising a high degree of autonomy and Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong he said, adding the one country, two systems principle has been successfully implemented. Mr Cheung said advocacy of Hong Kong independence is unacceptable because it is against one country, two systems and the Basic Law. While maintaining a high degree of autonomy, Hong Kong should protect the countrys sovereignty and integrity, he added. This story has been published on: 2019-03-23. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:50:50|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close NICOSIA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Millions of multicolor Painted Lady Butterflies are making a migration stopover in Cyprus these days on their way from the hot Arabia peninsula to cooler habitats in the Balkans and areas of the Mediterranean, an environmentalist said on Saturday. "An estimated 25,000 butterflies are estimated to arrive in Cyprus every hour," said Elena Markitani of the Cyprus Wild Life organization. Butterfly migration has been noted for centuries, but the number of these lepidoptera migrating this year in the region of the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean is especially marked, for reasons which are not fully understood. The Lady Butterflies had been originally observed on Thursday gathering on the coastal regions of Israel. Israeli Lepidopterists alerted their Cypriot colleagues about their impending arrival on the eastern Mediterranean island. A small number of butterflies was noted in areas of Cyprus on Friday morning, with their numbers going up as they progressed. Markitani said that the butterflies start their journey from Saudi Arabia to seek cooler habitats for the summer months. Several thousand stay on the island to breed, but most travel even northern to Turkey, Greece and other Balkan countries. Painted Lady butterflies are known to make long trips within a single generation, unlike the Monarch butterflies which migrate from Mexico to California once in their lifetime. Painted lady butterflies have a wing span of five to nine centimeters and their colors are mostly orange tinted, with black spots. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 22:55:54|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close ROME, March 23 (Xinhua) -- When Chinese President Xi Jinping quoted Alberto Moravia in a signed article in a leading newspaper here, he cast new light on the 20th-century Italian writer who had a "long and intense" connection with China, scholars said. Quoting Moravia, Xi wrote in the Corriere della Sera article: "Friendships are not chosen by chance, but according to the passions that dominate us." The quotation, said Italian scholars, fits in well with the larger point in Xi's article, which was published on the eve of his state visit to Italy and focuses on promoting stronger ties between the two countries. "Moravia had a long and intense relationship with China," Donatello Santarone, a professor of intercultural education at Roma Tre University, told Xinhua. "On his first trip to China, Moravia wrote 32 articles, explaining the complexities of Chinese culture at a time when Italians knew very little about the country." All told, Moravia made three important trips to China over a period of 50 years, the last of which came in 1986, just four years before the writer, journalist and public intellectual died in Rome at the age of 82. According to Luca Clerici, a professor of Italian literature specializing in travel writing at the State University of Milan, Moravia's writings on China show that he was particularly entranced by Beijing and the Great Wall. Clerici also said Moravia's objectivity about places he traveled to made him an especially compelling storyteller. "Moravia was not a casual traveler," Clerici said. "He always studied about a place a great deal before traveling to that place. He didn't arrive with pre-conceived notions or a specific agenda. He didn't have political filters. That allowed him to discuss a place in a way that stands up years later." Clerici said Moravia played a key role in helping form public opinion about China for generations of Italians. "About a third of his writings touched on China in some way, and he introduced an interest in China to many Italians," Clerici said. While Moravia has been an important public figure in Italy for generations, his works have become less read with time, according to Lorenzo Pavolini, a writer and a member of the board of directors of the Alberto Moravia Fund. Xi's remarks, however, helped shed new light on Moravia's long and prolific career, Pavolini said. "Moravia was one of the most important 20th-century public intellectuals, with a career of a writer and journalist that spanned more than 60 years," Pavolini told Xinhua. "He remains a well-known and well-respected figure." "He is less read now than he was 20 or 25 years ago," he said. "But I think the fact that the president of China called attention to him might convince some Italians to do the same." Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 23:00:55|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte hold talks in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2019. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) ROME, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte held talks here Saturday on jointly elevating the China-Italy relations into a new era and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance the construction of the Belt and Road. During their talks, Xi noted that the China-Italy relations are rooted in the history of the two countries' thousand-year-old exchanges, with strong public support. In recent years, the two countries have continuously deepened their communication and cooperation in various fields, which helped each other's social and economic development, Xi said. Calling China and Italy important strategic partners to each other, Xi urged both sides to view and handle the bilateral ties from a strategic height with long-term perspective. The two countries should take the opportunities of the 15th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership this year and the 50th anniversary of China-Italy diplomatic relations next year to jointly elevate bilateral relations into a new era, and allow their practical cooperation fruits in various fields better serve the two peoples, Xi said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 23:05:57|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close YANCHENG, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor Wang Yong has stressed all-out efforts to treat the injured and deal with the follow-up work well following a deadly chemical plant explosion in east China's Jiangsu Province. Wang led officials from departments of the State Council Friday to arrive at the explosion site in a chemical industrial park in Xiangshui County in the city of Yancheng, to guide the rescue and emergency response work, visit family members of the victims and the injured people, and express regards to the rescue teams. The death toll from the explosion has risen to 64 as of 7 a.m. Saturday after the explosion ripped through a chemical factory owned by Jiangsu Tianjiayi Chemical Co. Ltd. in Xiangshui County at about 2:48 p.m. Thursday. Wang visited the First People's Hospital of Yancheng shortly after his arrival at about 8 p.m. on Friday, consoling the injured people and asking medical workers to do everything to save them. At 11 p.m., Wang presided over a conference at the explosion site. Wang urged Jiangsu officials and all parties concerned to resolutely implement the instructions of Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and Premier Li Keqiang to make all-out rescue efforts with a strong sense of responsibility towards the people. Saving lives is the top priority while best medical resources and experts must be organized to minimize casualties, Wang said. Every corner must be searched over and over again for the victims, and every injured person must be rescued, he said. Hazardous chemicals and pollutants must be promptly dealt with, while environmental monitoring on air, soil and drinking water must be strengthened to avoid secondary disasters, Wang said. Wang also ordered timely and accurate disclosure of authoritative information to respond to public concerns. Thorough probe into the blast shall be carried out in a timely manner and those responsible shall be held accountable, he said. Wang visited the injured at the People's Hospital of Xiangshui Saturday, then went to the explosion site again to discuss follow-up rescue measures, and offered condolences to family members of the victims at their homes. Wang was sent to the site by General Secretary Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang to guide the rescue work on behalf of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 23:15:58|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close PARIS, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Celebrating the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, France and China are expecting high-level visits and other important events this year, making 2019 a "good" and "productive" year for bilateral cooperation, former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin has told Xinhua. In an exclusive interview ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to France, Raffarin said that besides the exchanges of high-level visits, the two countries will also host important events such as a cultural forum in Nice, the second China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, and the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing. Recalling his first trip to China in 1970, the veteran politician said, "I probably made more than a hundred trips to China. I am very interested in the Chinese culture and in the changes made in China. I saw China transform itself and has become an economic and industrial power." Raffarin said that in recent years France and China have developed fruitful cooperation in various domains, including their shared commitment to the implementation of the 2015 Paris climate accord. "The Paris Agreement would not have been possible without China and without good French-Chinese cooperation," he said. Raffarin also spoke highly of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the CIIE, calling them new developments of China in the last few years. He said the BRI, which pools the cooperative willingness of various countries to achieve common development, is especially important in the current world. "It is better to have projects and construct roads and bridges, instead of building walls and closing oneself in," he said. Raffarin said China has demonstrated itself to be a major importer by organizing the first CIIE. French firms, such as L'Oreal, Danone, and Schneider, took advantage of the fair to reinforce their presence in China. Raffarin likened the important common consensuses in Franco-Chinese relations to three "concentric circles of cooperation." The first circle is that they have similar world views, Raffarin said, adding that despite different social systems, the two countries could uphold multilateralism with mutual respect and share the view that only dialogue leads to peace. To comply with the development of the times, improve the rules and framework of multilateralism and raise the voices of Asia and Africa in a multilateral system is the shared mission of both France and China, he said. Economic and trade cooperation is the second circle, Raffarin said. "The Chinese market represents the engine of global growth. We need Chinese growth. What weakens Chinese growth weakens global growth." French firms have been digging into the Chinese market and have continuously achieved success. Bilateral trade cooperation has been expanded into areas ranging from nuclear energy, aerospace and automaking to wine, luxury products and services. According to China's official statistics, bilateral trade surpassed 60 billion U.S. dollars in 2018, hitting a record high. Raffarin regards the common diplomatic concepts shared by the two nations as the third circle of cooperation. In the new international circumstances, Raffarin said, France should continue to communicate and keep the friendly relations with China, and continuously promote the France-China comprehensive strategic partnership. "We will not forget that in the debt crisis, it was China that bought the euro to protect the eurozone," he added. "The friendship between France and China is a key factor for world stability. The world will become more peaceful and stable, as France and China talk more frequently to each other, and cooperate more closely," Raffarin said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 23:20:59|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close SRINAGAR, India-controlled Kashmir, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Troops of India and Pakistan Saturday exchanged heavy fire and targeted each other's positions on the Line of Control (LoC) dividing Kashmir, officials said. The two sides exchanged fire in frontier Poonch district, about 180 km southwest of Srinagar, the summer capital of India-controlled Kashmir. "This evening at around 5:30 (local time) Pakistan initiated unprovoked cease-fire violation by using mortars and firing small arms along the LoC in Poonch," an Indian defense ministry spokesperson said. "Our side also gave a befitting reply to the other side." The exchange went on for some time. So far no loss of life was reported in the skirmishes on the Indian or Pakistani side. For the past two weeks, there has been a flare up on the LoC in Kashmir. Both India- and Pakistan-controlled parts have suffered civilian as well as troop casualties during the skirmishes. The daily firings have forced people living on both sides to migrate to safer locations. The latest tension between New Delhi and Islamabad grew after India carried out an air strike inside Pakistan, triggering a retaliation. Though the situation has de-escalated to some extent following calls of restraint from several countries, the situation on the LoC was yet to show desired results. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 23:31:02|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close SHENYANG, March 23 (Xinhua) -- A joint venture petrochemical company with a total investment of over 71 billion yuan (10.6 billion U.S. dollars) from China and Saudi Arabia was inaugurated in the city of Panjin in northeast China's Liaoning Province Saturday. The company is one of the largest China-Foreign joint ventures in recent years in terms of investment scale. The company, funded by world-leading energy company Saudi Aramco and two Chinese companies, Xincheng Group and China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), is expected to be put into operation in 2024, and will promote the development of a fully integrated refining and petrochemical complex in Panjin. With the capacity to refine 15 million tonnes of oil and produce 1.5 million tonnes of ethylene and 1.3 million tonnes of paraxylene a year, the annual sales revenue of the company is expected to exceed 100 billion yuan. "We anticipate that this company will be a world-class petrochemical base in a few years," said Jiao Kaihe, Chairman of NORINCO. The new company is a clear demonstration of Saudi Aramco's strategy to move from a buyer-seller relationship to one where the company can make significant investments to contribute to China's economic growth and development, said Amin Nasser, Saudi Aramco's president and CEO. He also believes this project will serve as a model to collaborate with China's Belt and Road Initiative and Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia. The three partners signed an agreement in February, with Saudi Aramco holding 35% of the JV, NORINCO and Panjin Xincheng holding 36% and 29% respectively. Panjin, about 500 km northeast of Beijing, is an important petrochemical industrial base of the country. Total sales income of more than 90 petrochemical enterprises in the city reached 189.8 billion yuan in 2018. "This city is home to a large number of skilled petrochemical workers and technicians, and this project will create 3,000 jobs in Panjin," Nasser said. The city has also reserved 14 square kilometers of land and built a 300,000-ton crude oil terminal for the project. Above-scale petrochemical industrial added value rose 15.1 percent year on year in Liaoning last year, with crude processing volume up 13.5 percent to 80.96 million tonnes. According to the provincial department of commerce, Liaoning's actual use of foreign capital increased by 36.2 percent in 2018. Chen Qiufa, secretary of the CPC Liaoning Provincial Committee, hoped this new joint-stock company could help optimize the structure of the petrochemical industry of the province and boost the local economy. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 23:51:09|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close TRIPOLI, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Libya's UN-backed Prime Minister Fayez Serraj on Saturday called for the activation of agreements with the EU regarding the training of the Libyan border security. Serraj made his remarks during a meeting with Vincenzo Tagliaferri, head of the EU mission to Libya, in the capital Tripoli. The two officials discussed the latest political developments in Libya and the cooperation between Libya and the EU, according to a statement issued by the prime minister's information office. "The Prime Minister stressed the importance of activating the agreements on cooperation programs, including training and capacity development of the border security forces and information exchange," the statement said. Tagliaferri confirmed that he will implement the agreements through meetings with Federica Mogherini, the high representative of the EU for foreign affairs and security policy, the statement added. Libyan security services struggle to control the country's borders, particularly the southern border that suffers from smuggling and large illegal immigration flows. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 23:56:10|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close TRIPOLI, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Libyan Interior Ministry on Saturday said it freed three African hostages kidnapped by an African national in the capital Tripoli. "Members of the Investigation Bureau managed to free three African abductees from Niger kidnapped for ransom by a Malian national in Tripoli," the ministry said. "One of the kidnapped contacted a relative and asked for the ransom. The relative contacted the bureau, which later arrested the criminal and freed the hostages," the ministry added. Kidnapping for ransom happen frequently to African nationals in Libya, where there are more than 700,000 illegal African immigrants, according to official reports. Libya is plagued by insecurity and chaos ever since the fall of the late leader Gaddafi's regime in 2011. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 23:56:10|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close By Xinhua Writers Chu Yi and Zi Qiang KUNMING, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Every year, He Rujun celebrates at least nine traditional ethnic festivals with neighbors from seven different minorities. As one of the Naxi minority, He wore a traditional costume of goatskin ornamented with seven round embroidered discs representing seven stars last Thursday to celebrate Sanduo Festival, one of the grandest annual religious events for the Naxi. "Almost everyone in my neighborhood joins the celebration, no matter which ethnic group they belong to," He said. "We taught them our songs and dances so that we could sing together in harmony of traditional Naxi mythical tales, swaying to the rhythm of drums and other handmade instruments." He lives in the community of Beimen in the city of Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province, where more than 86 percent of its residents are ethnic minorities. Yunnan is home to 25 ethnic groups, including Dai, Bai, Hani, Yi and Miao. Different ethnic groups have their own language, costume and customs. "In a community with multiple nationalities, having people with various habits and cultural backgrounds live harmoniously while preserving their ethnic characteristics is our top priority," said Liu Linjun, Party branch secretary of Beimen community. "We are seeking common ground while reserving differences." To promote ethnic cultures, Beimen organizes folk artists and culture inheritors to show their skills and give performances in popular tourist spots in Lijiang. Besides, it also holds grand celebrations on every ethnic festival and encourages residents to interact with each other so that everyone can have a better understanding of the diverse cultures and traditions in the community. "People can have a sense of ethnic pride and their cultural identity can be strengthened through communicating and celebrating together," Liu said. He Rujun has been living in Beimen for more than 30 years, witnessing the community's tremendous change from a wasteland to a modern neighborhood as the result of joint efforts by every ethnic group. "We worked together and hardened all the muddy roads. Last year, we renovated street lamps for about 11 kilometers and paved two new roads," He said. "Singing and dancing with friends of other minorities at the activity center in our community has almost become my daily routine, which has greatly enriched my retired life." There's an ethnic amalgamation in the community. He's daughter married somebody from a Bai ethnic minority and his daughter-in-law is from the Pumi ethnic minority. Since the Naxi and Pumi people had been at war in the past, marriage between the two minorities once was not allowed, but He's family broke with the tradition. Conflict, however, is still inevitable. "Therefore, we set up a consulting committee consisting of representatives from all seven ethnic groups, seniors with a good reputation as well as leaders of our community, to solve disputes and clear up misunderstandings," He added. Such an open and inclusive living environment has also attracted foreign residents. So far there are 12 foreign households settling in Beimen, including those from France, Spain, New Zealand and the Republic of Korea. Ethnic solidarity also contributes to local economic development. "Thanks to the nearby Old Town, a world-famous tourist spot in Lijiang, residents in Beimen are engaging in the tourism industry, showing the world our unique diverse cultures," Liu Linjun said. The annual per capita income of residents in Beimen increased to 38,000 yuan (5,562 U.S. dollars) last year, up 12 percent compared with that in 2016. "All nationalities are from one family, and we have to guarantee all family members are living happily," Liu said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 00:21:18|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close GAZA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- At least three Palestinians were injured on Saturday in an Israeli airstrike targeting the area east of the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza Strip, close to the border with Israel, medics said. Ashraf al-Qedra, spokesman of the Health Ministry in Gaza, told reporters that three men were slightly injured by the shrapnel of a missile fired by an Israeli drone, adding that the injured were sent to hospital for treatment. An Israeli army spokesman said in a press statement that the Israeli air forces attacked a group of Palestinians who were launching arson balloons carrying explosives from eastern Gaza Strip to southern Israel. Tension on the border between Gaza and Israel has been mounting for almost one year since the start of the marches of return, an anti-Israel protest calling for an end to the 12 years of Israeli blockade on the coastal enclave since 2007. According to the Health Ministry officials, the Israeli army has killed 261 demonstrators and wounded more than 29,000 others since the start of the protests, and around 40 percent of the casualties were shot by Israeli soldiers' gunfire. On Friday, two Palestinians were killed and 62 others injured by Israeli soldiers' gunfire during clashes that broke out in eastern Gaza Strip, close to the border with Israel. Meanwhile, Hamas movement which rules the Gaza Strip said in a press statement that it welcomes the United Nations Human Rights Council's condemnation towards the Israeli killing of Gaza demonstrators in the marches of return. "The decision is a step in the right direction towards backing the Palestinian legitimate rights and criminalizing the occupation (Israel) in the international organizations," Hamas statement said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 00:56:22|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close YANGON, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi called for active cooperation of government and artists to upgrade local movie industry to enter the international industry at a film academy awards presentation ceremony late Saturday. The state councelor also urged to produce more culture-based films which can portray Myanmar's culture and heritage to attract interest from all over the world. The Myanmar Motion Picture Organization (MMPO) presented 12 motion picture academy awards for the year 2018 to the outstanding artists after scrutiny out of 83 selected movies produced last year. Myint Myint Khin, 85-year-old film actress who has previously won five film academy awards, was presented the lifetime achievement award. Aiming at encouraging domestic film production and bringing up its quality, the film academy award presentations were annually held since 1952. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 01:16:26|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MOGADISHU, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from Saturday's two car bombings in Somali capital, Mogadishu, rose to 11 while 15 others were injured, a medical charity said on Saturday. Abdulkadir Abdirrahman, director of Amin ambulance confirmed the death toll to Xinhua, saying the operation at the ministry in central Mogadishu was over and the security officers are now in control. "So far, additional reports we found from our staff confirmed that today's car bomb attacks killed 11 people and injured 15 others," Abdirrahman said. Government officials said the siege on the buildings housing ministries of labor and public works, reconstruction and housing in Shangani came to an end after security forces shot dead all the five bombers. "Our security forces are now in control of the building. Our security forces managed to contain massive deaths by swiftly ending the siege," said a government official who declined to be quoted. The fighting started at midday after suicide bomber rammed a car laden with explosives into the gate of buildings before several armed men gained entry into the building. Deputy Minister for labor and social affairs Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla was among those killed in the blast which has been roundly condemned by senior government officials. "I was in my office when armed men broke into the building.I jumped from a window in my office as some of my colleagues did," Osman Bashir, a government employee who was rescued by the security forces said. The al-Shabab militant group claimed responsibility for the attack, claiming one of its fighters entered the two buildings with a car laden with explosives and carried out the attack. The al-Qaida allied terrorist group has been fighting the government. The latest attack came as Somali security forces are vacating their military bases in protest of unpaid salaries, stoking fear among the residents that al-Shabab may take over the abandoned bases. However, the government has refuted the allegations, saying the soldiers are paid regularly and on time, adding that soldiers who have not received their salaries refused to register themselves under biometric system which was put in place to weed out fraud. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 02:01:30|Editor: ZX Video Player Close ROME, March 23 (Xinhua) -- China and Italy signed here Saturday a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly advance the construction of the Belt and Road during Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to the country. The two sides welcome the signing of the intergovernmental MoU on jointly advancing the Belt and Road construction, said a joint communique issued by the two countries. The two sides realize the huge potential of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in promoting connectivity, and stand ready to strengthen the alignment of the BRI and Trans-European Transport Networks and deepen the cooperation in ports, logistics, marine transportation and other areas, the communique said. The two sides expressed willingness to join efforts under the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to advance connectivity in line with the AIIB's mission and functions. More air links can be expected as the two sides agreed to facilitate airlines from each other to do business and ease the market access for them, according to the communique. During his state visit to Italy from March 21 to 24, Xi held talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on bilateral ties, as well as regional and international issues of common interest. The communique said the two sides have agreed to advance China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership in the spirit of mutual respect and mutual benefit for win-win outcomes. Actions will be taken to fully implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, it added. The two sides reiterated their commitment to promote multilateralism and maintain the international system with the United Nations at its core. They agreed to oppose protectionism of any form, promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, maintain the World Trade Organization (WTO)'s central role and jointly push for necessary reforms to the WTO. The two sides agreed to work with each other on cooperation in fields such as environment and sustainable energy, agriculture, sustainable urbanization, health, aviation, space technology, infrastructure and transportation, according to the communique. The two sides also expressed willingness to strengthen cultural cooperation that includes heritage protection and fight against relic trafficking, education cooperation that highlights language studies, judicial cooperation that involves extradition and anti-graft experience sharing, and law enforcement cooperation. During Xi's visit, the two sides signed 19 intergovernmental bilateral cooperation documents, the communique said. A screengrab of footage released by the Russian Defense Ministry shows a U.S. B-52H strategic bomber flying over the neutral waters of the Baltic Sea. MOSCOW, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Russian Su-27 fighters escorted U.S. B-52H strategic bombers twice in a day over the neutral waters of the Baltic Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry said Saturday. Two U.S. aircraft were detected by Russian airspace control devices at a considerable distance from the state border, and the Russian jets took off to accompany them, the ministry said on Facebook. The crews of the Su-27 fighters did not allow the U.S. bombers to approach the Russian border, it said in a statement, without disclosing the date of the incident. According to Russia's National Center for Defense Management, the aircraft of the U.S. strategic air force have carried out seven flights over the Baltic Sea since March 14. Media said that Washington recently deployed six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to Europe for "theater integration and flying training" drills with regional allies and North Atlantic Treaty Organization partners. The appearance of U.S. bombers near Russian borders created additional tension, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a briefing on Thursday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 04:56:59|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close ALGIERS, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Algerian major opposition personalities and parties on Saturday drew up a roadmap for paving the way for smooth transition of power in this North African nation. Opposition parties, personalities, activists and trade union representatives met in the headquarters of El Binaa party in Algiers. They agreed to regroup under the new brand of "Forces of Change in Support of the People Choice," TSA news agency reported quoting a statement released by the participants at the end of their meeting. They agreed on a roadmap that proposes political solution and should be implemented after the end of the current presidential term on April 28. The roadmap suggests the creation of "a collegial presidential authority," in a bid to run a short transition period for less than six months. This body would be "composed of credible, honest and competent national personalities who should adopt the demands of the people, as they would be tasked with the mission of forming a government of national competencies to manage current affairs of the country, establish an independent national body for organizing elections, and amend the electoral law to guarantee fair and free elections." The members of the presidential collegial are committed not to run in any elections, underscored the statement. Algerians have been staging wide scale marches since Feb. 22 across the country to claim political changes. On March 11, Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika announced that the presidential election slated for April 18 will be postponed, and dropped his decision to seek a fifth presidential term. He also pledged to form a new cabinet to pave the way for organizing a national inclusive conference to draft a new constitution and organize presidential election. However, these propositions have been rejected by the protesters as they insist that the transition era should not be led by any representative of the government. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 05:52:08|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close KHARTOUM, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Sudanese police announced that eight children were killed on Saturday due to the explosion of "a strange object" in Sudan's Omdurman city, Sudan's Ashorooq TV channel reported. "The strange object exploded while the children were playing with it," Hashim Abdel-Rahim, Sudanese police spokesman, was quoted as saying. He said four children died immediately while the other four died after they were transferred to the hospital. He added that the police opened an investigation into the incident and the nature of the exploded object. The incident took place at al-Fath neighborhood in the north of the city, near a military training area. Meanwhile, according to eyewitnesses and families of the victims, the incident took place as the children were trying to dismantle a bomb to use the copper in it. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 05:52:09|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close JERUSALEM, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will leave on Saturday night for Washington to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump. The two leaders are scheduled to meet on Monday at the White House and on Tuesday over dinner. The prime minister's office stated that Netanyahu will discuss with Trump "the Iranian aggression, Iran's efforts to entrench militarily in Syria, how to prevent Iran from attaining nuclear weapons, and the tightening of cooperation on security and intelligence matters." According to the statement, Netanyahu will address the annual American Israel Public Affairs Committee conference on Tuesday morning. He will also hold diplomatic meetings on Capitol Hill with U.S. politicians. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 05:52:09|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close by Xinhua writers Zhang Dailei, Larry Neild LONDON, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The unknown effect of Brexit is damaging the theater and performing arts industry of Britain at the moment, said a senior representative for the British theaters. In a recent press briefing to foreign media, Julian Bird, Chief Executive of the Society of London Theater (SOLT) and UK Theater, said people in UK's theater industry "are very cautious, as in every industry here", because of the unknown effect of the Brexit. UNDER BREXIT SHADOW SOLT and UK Theater are UK's leading theater and performing arts membership organizations. According to their latest data, British theaters have enjoyed its golden period in recent years. In 2018 alone, a total of 62,945 performances in London's West End and across Britain have drawn a combined audience of over 34 million, generating ticket revenue of nearly 1.28 billion pounds (1. 69 billion U.S. dollars) . But the booming industry now is under the shadow of uncertainty of Brexit. "In case of unknown situation, the cost of a show may increase because you have actors and working staff coming from other European countries," said Bird, who is also a producer. An estimated 40,000 jobs depend on theaters in London's West End, many of which are taken by people from European countries. "If I plan for the autumn, what is going to entail for me as a producer or a manager of that production is just unknown. What are going to be the visa requirements and what is the cost of those going to be? If you've got a huge company going, you have to have visa requirements for multiple countries that could be very expensive and could jeopardize what we are doing in the first place," Bird added. The industry may also need to face the possible shrink of arts founding sources from Europe, as well as the challenge for co-productions that require efforts across multiple countries. "Some of those projects may never get off the ground in the first place," Bird warned, "There is definitely some trepidation." Besides, roughly one third of London West End's audience are overseas visitors and nearly 25 percent of holiday visitors staying in London will go to the theater. It is natural for the British theaters to worry about if they can keep visitors coming in a changing political climate. NO ANSWER SO FAR Bird became the chief of SOLT and UK Theater nine years ago. He is also the executive producer for the Olivier Awards and UK Theater Awards. Representing the theater society, he is in conversation with the British government. "We are in conversation all the time," Bird said, "but the negotiations are so complex, there are no special arrangements for any particular industry at the moment." He took the issue about shipping as an example. "You have probably heard the government talking about the distinction between goods and services. The people's performance is definitely a service. But if you think about a theater production, where does that fall? If I am taking an entire production to perform somewhere, is that a service? Or then if I'm taking physical sets and costumes, are they treated as goods or actually is the whole thing goods?" he asked. He said this kind of negotiations have last for months, and "the answer is there are no answers at the moment". Therefore, Bird called for a better mechanism for theater exchange and talents swap between Britain and Europe. The exchange scheme between Britain and America has developed well over years, which allows British actors go and work in theaters in America and vise versa. "There is the potential for a similar thing with Europe in the future," Bird said. "I prefer to stay in Europe, I'm not a leaver. But assuming we do leave, I think it will take a long time before that all starts to settle down and we all know where we are." Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 05:57:10|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close BUDAPEST, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Saturday called for an immediate action against migration at an international conference. "We need to act now on migration, on border protection, and European unity, because if European policy does not make immediate decisions, then processes that will be impossible to stop later will start," Orban said at the opening day of the Budapest Summit on Migration, hosted by the Mathias Corvinus Collegium. "We have to make decisions now, because otherwise our successors and maybe even ourselves will have to face painful consequences in 20, 30, 40 years," Orban added. He quoted UN data suggesting that the population of Africa would rise by half a billion people in the next 13 years, almost as much as the current population of the EU, while the difference between the quality of life in Africa and Europe would likely increase. This will surely increase migration pressure from Africa, according to him. Orban said that the EU therefore should start helping Africa now, and not in five years' time -- "Bring aid there and don't let trouble leave from there." "It must be acknowledged that the current EU leaders with the current structures are unable to resolve the issue of migration. Therefore, a modification of the system is necessary," he said. "The European Commission must be revoked from its rights concerning migration and border protection, and a new body should be set up, composed of the interior ministers of the Schengen area to answer the question of migration," he added. The Budapest Summit on Migration continues on Sunday and features a number of prominent international voices on these issues, including former Czech president Vaclav Klaus and former French president Nicolas Sarkozy. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 06:02:11|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close GAZA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- At least four Palestinians were injured during night protests and clashes with the Israeli soldiers in eastern Gaza Strip, close to the border with Israel, medics said. Four Palestinians were shot and injured by Israeli soldiers' gunfire in eastern Gaza Strip, and one of them is in critical condition, said Health Ministry Spokesman in Gaza Ashraf al-Qedra. The night confusion unit, which is part of the rallies called "the Great March of Return," began on Saturday night with activities along the border between eastern Gaza Strip and Israel, according to local media reports in Gaza. The participants burned tires, exploded dozens of sound bombs, and disturbed the residents of the Israeli small towns near the border. The Israeli media reported that the night confusion unit members threw around 300 sound bombs in three hours at the Israeli army forces stationed on the border, adding that no injuries were reported. The Palestinians in the Gaza Strip will mark one year for "the Great March of Return" on March 30. Al-Qedra said that since the outbreak of the rallies, the Israeli army killed at least 261 demonstrators and wounded more than 29,000 others. Around 40 percent of them were injured by live gunfire. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 06:07:12|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close GENEVA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organization (WHO) on Saturday called for urgent global support to deal with the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as the number of infected cases approaches 1,000. Since the Ebola outbreak was declared in the DRC in August 2018, the number of confirmed and probable cases has amounted to 993, resulting in 621 deaths. Though more than 96,000 people have been vaccinated in the country, and more than 44 million border screenings have helped to slow the spread of Ebola, the risk of national and regional spread remains very high, especially when episodes of violence and instability impact the response, the WHO warned in a statement. "This outbreak has gone on far too long. We owe it to the people of North Kivu to work with them in solidarity not only to end this outbreak as soon as possible, but to build the health systems that address the many other health threats they face on a daily basis," WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. Currently the UN health agency has more than 700 people in the DRC addressing the concerns of the affected communities. But "their fear of violence is now compounded by fear of Ebola," said Dr. Tedros. The WHO chief vowed that despite the increased attacks by armed groups, the WHO "will stay the course and will work with communities to end this outbreak together with the Ministry of Health and partners". "We need redoubled support from the international community, and a commitment to push together to bring this outbreak to an end," he added, referring to a financial need of at least 148 million U.S. dollars for the next six months, though only half, or 74 million dollars, had been received as of March 19. The WHO urged donors to help close the funding gap so as to end the outbreak as soon as possible. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 06:32:18|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close RABAT, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Five Israeli citizens have been arrested for their alleged involvement in obtaining Moroccan identity documents and passports through falsification, Morocco's police said in a statement on Saturday. The arrest of the five suspects is part of an ongoing probe into the criminal network led by a Moroccan of Jewish faith, which was detained in early March after being suspected of the involvement in the falsification of Moroccan identity documents for the benefit of the Jewish citizens of non-Moroccan origin, the statement said. The initial investigation revealed that two of the five foreigners are subjected to Interpol Red Notices for their arrest and extradition internationally, the statement said, noting that one of them is suspected of being involved in intentional killings, while the other is linked with international drug trafficking networks. The statement said that search operations carried out at homes rented by the suspects resulted in the seizure of the falsified documents, large sums of money in Moroccan and foreign currency, a quantity of cannabis and electronic devices. The suspects were held in police custody for investigation, the statement said. On March 7, the Moroccan police announced that they had arrested 10 suspects as part of the busting of a criminal network suspected of falsifying official documents to enable Israelis to obtain the Moroccan nationality and ID. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 06:52:22|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Sydney Aiello, who survived a shooting massacre at a high school in U.S. state of Florida in early 2018, has died from suicide, media reported Saturday. Aiello suffered from survivor's guilt following last year's shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, which left 17 students and teachers dead, and had recently been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, according to CNN, citing her mother, Cara. Aiello, a 19-year-old student at Florida Atlantic University, died at home last weekend in Coconut Creek, Florida, suffering a gunshot wound to the head, according to local authorities. Her funeral took place on Friday. Aiello had been in school on Feb. 14, 2018, the day of the mass shooting, but was not in the building where the attack took place, Cara said. The cheerleader graduated from the high school a month after the shooting, but struggled to attend college classes because she was afraid of being in a classroom, according to media reports. The shooting that had traumatized Aiello and shaken the nation was carried out by former Stoneman Douglas student Nikolas Cruz, then 19. He was indicted on 17 counts of murder. Grieving students launched a nationwide movement following the carnage, calling for changes in gun-related policies with the hope of preventing a similar tragedy from happening again. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-23 13:13:35|Editor: zh Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Special counsel Robert Mueller has finished his investigation of alleged Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election by submitting a confidential report to Attorney General William Barr on Friday afternoon. Barr has read Mueller's "comprehensive" report and the attorney general sent a letter to House and Senate judiciary leaders Friday, informing them that he "may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." A Justice Department official told CNN that distillation from Barr will be made public. But it's unclear how much of Mueller's full work will be seen by the public or when it will be released. Mueller was appointed by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein in May 2017 to lead an inquiry into possible collusion between Donald Trump's campaign and Moscow during the 2016 presidential elections and whether the president obstructed justice, among other things. For the past 22 months, the investigation has shadowed the White House, as it has led to felony charges against 34 people, including six Trump associates, and three companies, amid fierce criticism from the president and his political allies. Trump has repeatedly dismissed any collusion between his campaign and Moscow, while slamming the investigation as a "hoax" or "witch hunt." Russia has denied any meddling in the 2016 presidential election. Mueller "will be concluding his service in the coming days," according to Peter Carr, spokesman for the special counsel's office. A senior Justice Department official said Mueller is not recommending any further indictments. The highly-anticipated report set the stage for rounds of public fights over its release. Mueller is required to submit a confidential report to Barr at the conclusion of his investigation. Barr, in turn, is required to notify Congress about Mueller's findings. According to special counsel regulations, the report must explain Mueller's "prosecution or declination decisions." Barr told lawmakers Friday that he intends to consult with Rosenstein and Mueller to "determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public." "I remain committed to as much transparency as possible," he said. Democrats are pushing for the full release of Mueller's report as they warned the White House against interfering with decisions about what parts of Mueller's findings or evidence are made public. In a joint statement, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called upon Barr "to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress." "Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence," according to the statement. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said that his panel was willing to subpoena Mueller, if needed, in order to have a clearer picture of the contents of his final report. The White House said in a statement Friday that it has not received or been briefed on the special counsel's report. "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course," the statement added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-24 06:42:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 23 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Attorney General William Barr will not send his summary of special counsel Robert Mueller's report to Congress on Saturday, according to multiple media reports. Media reports were quoting a senior Department of Justice (DOJ) official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to publicly discuss the review process. Mueller has finished his inquiry into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election by submitting a confidential report to Barr on Friday. Bar, who reportedly arrived at the Department of Justice (DOJ) building in Washington, D.C. Saturday morning, is reviewing Mueller's findings. He told lawmakers Friday that he may provide Congress with the "principal conclusions" this weekend. The DOJ official told media that Barr was working with advisers to determine what to include in the summary to Congress, adding that the attorney general will not deliver it on Saturday. Mueller was appointed by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein in May, 2017 to lead an inquiry into possible collusion between Donald Trump's campaign and Moscow during the 2016 presidential election and whether the president obstructed justice, among other things. The investigation has shadowed the White House for nearly two years, as it has led to felony charges against 34 people, including six Trump associates, and three entities, triggering fierce criticism from the president and his political allies. Russia has denied any meddling in the 2016 election. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-22 22:05:18|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close HARARE, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese government has decided to donate 800,000 U.S. dollars in cash as emergency humanitarian assistance to Zimbabwe to help the country with its disaster relief efforts, an envoy said Friday. China will provide assistance in line with the need of the southern African country hit by Cyclone Idai, Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe Guo Shaochun said. Speaking at a press conference at the embassy, Guo said Chinese government will join the Zimbabwean government and people in the reconstruction efforts. The Chinese community in Zimbabwe, he added, also took swift action and managed to mobilize supplies worth about 310,000 dollars. "On Wednesday, 11 trucks fully loaded with those supplies including maize, cooking oil, bottled water, tents, quilts, blankets, arrived in disaster-stricken area and reached the people in bad need," Guo told the journalists. "As a brother of Zimbabwe, China deeply feels how the Zimbabwean people are feeling and are always standing side-by-side, ready to offer maximum possible support," Guo said. He said the Chinese government will provide more grants, more loans and encourage more investments in the affected regions under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the Belt and Road Initiative. Cyclone Idai, which hit the country from neighboring Mozambique, mainly affected eastern and southern parts of Zimbabwe. The Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services said as of Wednesday, the death toll from Idai in Zimbabwe had risen to 139 with 189 still missing, 144 people injured while 136 were marooned. More than 4,300 people had been displaced, the ministry added. As rescue and search efforts are under way, donations of relief supplies to the victims continue to pour in from local people, companies, regional governments and international aid agencies. Open source On March 23, the pro-Russian militants violated the ceasefire in Donbas once. It is reported by the press center of the Joint Forces Operation on Facebook. "The enemy conducted one adjusted attack on our positions near the village of Zolote-4 from the armament of an infantry fighting vehicle and a mounted anti-tank grenade launcher," the report says. It is emphasized that there are no casualties among the Ukrainian military personnel as a result of the fighting. "The unit gave an adequate response to the enemy to stop the shelling. The situation in the area of the Joint Forces Operation remains under control of the Ukrainian military," the report adds. Earlier in Kharkiv, officers of the Security Service of Ukraine detained the DNR militant, who moved to Ukraine and wanted to regain the previously lost Ukrainian documents. The press office of Security Service reported that on Facebook. In early 2019, the man decided to move to Ukraine for permanent residence. He tried to get a duplicate of his documents, which he allegedly lost. However, the SSU staff found that in February 2015, the militant lived in the territory of the occupied Horlivka and joined the illegal DNR armed group. There, the detainee received the call sign "Coob" and served in the "military intelligence of Novorossiya". The man was actively involved in the fight against the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Law enforcers searched the apartment of the man and found a RGD-5 grenade and a 400-gram TNT charge. A criminal case was opened on the facts of his involvement in 'DNR terrorist group'. Russian militants fired at positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine six times Open source On March 22, one Ukrainian serviceman died and one was wounded as a result of the hostile attack in Donbas conflict zone. The Joint Forces Operation (JFO) HQ reported this on Facebook. The Russian militants violated the ceasefire regime six times; they also used Minsk-banned weaponry five times over 24 hours. The enemy used 63 mines of 120 mm and 82 mm calibers. A sniper has been spotted as well. Ukrainian Armed Forces stopped the attack by opening fire as well. The casualties among the Russian militants are still being checked. The situation in the Joint Forces Operation area is under control of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Earlier, one of the Ukrainian defenders lost his life in combat in Donbas. Over the past 24 hours, the Russian mercenaries attacked Ukrainian positions in Donbas seven times. Zolote-1, Novozvanivka, Novooleksandrivka, Zolote-5, Vilny farmstead, Zolote-4, Pivdenne, Krymske, and Stanytsia Luhanska came under fire in Luhansk region. The enemy used anti-tank grenade launchers, heavy machine guns, and small arms. March 20, three Ukrainian soldiers sustained injuries in Donbas combat zone. Over the past 24 hours, Russian-backed militants have performed 11 attacks. The enemy used Minsk-banned weapons, including 82mm and 120mm mortars. 74 shells and five guided missiles were fired against our military in total. Volodymyr Markevych, the Ukrainian military doctor pressjfo.news Ukrainian military doctor Volodymyr Markevych deceased during fulfilling his duties in Donbas combat zone. The press service of the 24th Mechanized Brigade of Ukraine reports this on Facebook. Volodymyr Markevych was the senior military doctor, so he worked at the observation post of the forefront of the demarcation line near Novomykhaylivka village. The man was in the most dangerous area because the soldiers could have needed his help any moment. The enemy sniper shot three times at him, using the 12.7 mm rifle. One of the bullets hit the doctor. According to the press service, Marckevych was born on February 5, 1971, and used to live in Lviv region, in Rozdil village. The man went to the battlefield in the Joint Forces Operation in order to save soldiers' lives in April 2018. The Ukrainian soldiers speak about him as the courageous, sincere and good comrade. 22-year-old Kyrylo lost his father because of the tragic event. Earlier, one Ukrainian soldier died in the Donbas conflict zone on Friday, March 22. The Russian militants violated the ceasefire regime six times, they also used Minsk-banned weaponry five times over 24 hours. The enemy used 88 shells of 120 mm and 82 mm mortar. Ceasefire regime in Donbas Open source One Ukrainian soldier died in Donbas conflict zone on Friday, March 22. The Joint Forces Operation (JFO) HQ reported this on Facebook. The Russian militants violated the ceasefire regime six times, they also used Minsk-banned weaponry five times over 24 hours. The enemy fired 120 mm and 82 mm mortar; 88 mines hit the vicinities of Ukrainian outposts. In the East operational group action zone, the enemy fired twice with: High-precision artillery near Novomykhaylivka settlement; 120 mm mortar and automatic grenade launchers near Vodyane village. In the North group area, the enemy attacked our positions four times with: 120 mm and 82 mm mortars, near Novololexandrivka settlement (twice); 120 mm mortar near Novozvanivka village; Manual anti-tank grenade launchers, heavy machine guns, and small arms near Zolote-1 village. Besides, three residential buildings were destroyed by the enemy fire in Mariinka village. The Russian soldiers fired an 82 mm mortar on the Moskalevskyi Street. Luckily, no casualties have been spotted. According to the information of the intelligence, three Russian militants were killed and five more were wounded. No violations of the ceasefire regime have been spotted since midnight of March 23. Earlier Ukraines Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko stated that the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch handled him a 'do-not-prosecute list' Voice of America Anders Aslund, a senior researcher at the Atlantic Council, took his words back after saying that he did not believe in the statement of Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko about the United States Ambassador in Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch. He wrote that on his Twitter, reports "Business Capital". "I am withdrawing my statement on Lutsenko," Aslund wrote, without specifying any details. I am withdrawing my statement on Lutsenko. Anders Aslund (@anders_aslund) March 21, 2019 Earlier, Ukraines President Petro Poroshenko expressed support of the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch, as he said during the event dedicated to the 27th anniversary of the creation of the Security Service (SBU), broadcasted by 112 Ukraine. Petro Poroshenko supported Yovanovitch in the case of passing the not to prosecute list to Prosecutor General of Ukraine Yuriy Lutsenko. Petro Poroshenko noted that Marie Yovanovitch has an important role in development of the Ukrainian-American relationships. I want to note an important role of the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch in the development of the Ukrainian-American relationships. I stress that as the U.S. and the U.S. President Donald Trump representative she has my full support, Petro Poroshenko said. Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Arsen Avakov confirmed the fact of receiving the letter from the organization The ambassadors of the Group of Seven (G7) countries sent a letter to the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Arsen Avakov with a warning about the possible threat of disrupting the presidential elections slated for next week. Radio Liberty reports this, providing the copies of two letters by the G-7, which consists of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In their letters dating back to March 15, G7 urges Ukraine to undertake the measures against the violent political extremist movements that could undermine the coming elections and usurp the Ukrainian National Police. Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Arsen Avakov confirmed the fact of receiving the letter from the G7. Yes, I have got the letter, in which the ambassadors ask for an honest voting procedure and for preventing radical electoral to disrupt the process. They also wrote that they appreciate the efforts and points of view of the Ministry of Internal Affairs on this issue, Avakov said. Earlier, the hackers from the Russian Federation have spread the fake messages in the behalf of Arsen Avakov, the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, where they supported one of the presidential candidates in Ukranian elections. As we reported earlier, The Central Election Commission (CEC) of Ukraine has created 199 district election commissions for the upcoming presidential election on March 31. The election campaign has officially started on December 31, 2018. Registration of the candidates was closed on February 4, 2019, and on February 9, the final list of presidential candidates is expected to appear. The candidates would be able to withdraw their candidacy until March 7, 2019. Several thousand supporters of the National Corps political party gathered on Independence Square in Kyiv. They demanded to prosecute Oleg Gladkovsky, the former First Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, his son Igor and other defendants in the so-called Ukroboronprom embezzlement case. This is reported by Ukrainian News. The rally began at about 12:35. About 2,000 people gathered on the square. The protesters called to arrest the accounts and property of the Gladkovsky family, as well as other participants in the embezzlement scheme at the Ukroboronprom state concern - Vitaly Zhukov, Andriy Rogoza, as well as the concern's management, etc. The rally participants themselves demanded that offenders should be punished with maximum terms of imprisonment. According to the speaker of the National Corpus Oleksander Alferov, such actions will take place until the demands of the protesters are heard. After the rally, people moved to the building of the Presidential Administration. They were accompanied by the police. The international audit of Ukroboronprom, Ukraine's leading defense industry enterprise should take place by the end of the year. Petro Poroshenko, the President of Ukraine said that during his interview to TV channels, as Interfax-Ukraine news agency quoted him. 'The tender procedures will last for two months; speaking of how much time would the audit take place, I'd say for sure it will be over this year', the President said. He also added that he would pay maximum efforts to speed up this process. Currently, the government and the National Security Council should start the procedure of selection of the auditing authority, Poroshenko concluded. 'It should be a respected international company with certain credibility level', he concluded. The National Security and Defense Council instructed to perform the full and comprehensive audit of Ukroboronprom, the leading defense enterprise in this country. The press service of the National Security and Defense Council reports this. According to the results of the session, it is instructed to immediately fund the full audit of Ukroboronprom, the enterprises and the participants with involvement in the audit foreign experts. The General Prosecutors Office together with State Investigation Bureau, Security Service of Ukraine and the National Anti-Corruption Bureau should examine the enterprise and check the published by the press facts about violation of the purchases of defense articles, and they should announce the results to the people, - the report said. Yulia Tymoshenko Reuters Presidential candidate Yulia Tymoshenko has a reputation as a politician with great skill in political survival, writes the Financial Times. She is the face of a popular uprising, she is called a gas princess for her energy oligarch past, she was imprisoned as a rival, she is a former Ukrainian prime minister. However, the requirements for changes by the Ukrainians, who are tired of corruption and a low standard of living, can still threaten her third and possibly last attempt to become president of the country in elections this month, Glavkom news agency quotes the article. She claims that her experience in negotiating with Vladimir Putin will help her end the smoldering war on the eastern border of Ukraine, expanding negotiations thanks to the participation of the United States and Great Britain - even if her past relationship with the Russian President makes her an object of some Ukrainians' suspicion. But, if last year Tymoshenko confidently headed the ratings, now the situation has become complicated for her. The appearance of Volodymyr Zelensky, a 41-year-old comedian without political experience, diminished both her hopes and those of Petro Poroshenko, the incumbent president who wants re-election. Now, on the eve of the March 31 elections, Zelensky is in the first place. The growth of his popularity left Tymoshenko alone in the fight against Poroshenko for reaching the possible second round on April 21. In her quest to recapture, Tymoshenko has resorted to populist promises targeted at elder voters: halving gas prices, raising pensions three times and returning savings to Soviet depositors. Such slogans alerted investors, who fear that this could jeopardize the critical financial assistance from the IMF, which Poroshenko promised to support. CNN reports that Muellers report does not have new accusations, and it does not recommend further investigation U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller finished his investigation into Russias role in the U.S. presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by U.S. President Donald Trump, as Reuters reports. Mueller submitted the report to Attorney General William Barr, the Justice Department, who has to make conclusions of the investigation into Russias role in the U.S. presidential election and then represent it in the Congress. The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report, - Sarah Sanders, Press Secretary of the White House posted on Twitter. According to CNN, Muellers report, which is very detailed, has been seen by only a few people. The content of the report on the Russian case is still unknown, although the channel has already proclaimed Trump the winner in the confrontation with the Democrats. CNN says that Muellers report does not have new accusations, and it does not recommend further investigation. Robert Mueller declared that his service as the U.S. Special Counsel would end soon. Open source Officers of the Security Service of Ukraine detained the DNR militant in Kharkiv, northeastern Ukraine. He moved to Ukraine and wanted to regain the Ukrainian documents that he had lost. The press office of Security Service reports that on Facebook. In early 2019, the man decided to move to Ukraine for permanent residence. He tried to get a duplicate of his documents, which he allegedly lost. However, the SSU staff found that in February 2015, the militant lived in the territory of the occupied Horlivka and joined the illegal DNR armed group. There, the detainee received the call sign "Coob" and served in the "military intelligence of Novorossiya". The man was actively involved in the fight against the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Law enforcers searched the apartment of the man and found a RGD-5 grenade and a 400-gram TNT charge. A criminal case was opened on the facts of his involvement in DNR terrorist group. Earlier the SBU, Ukraine's State Security Service detained a man in Kramatorsk, Donetsk region; he appeared to be the informant working for the terrorist organization known as 'DNR' ('Donetsk People's Republic', - 112 International). The SBU press office posted this via Facebook. The law enforcers found out that the local resident gathered the data on the movement of Ukrainian military vehicles in Kramatorsk. He passed the information to the members of illegal armed formations. The perpetrator was detained and charged with the creation of a terrorist group. The pre-trial investigation is underway. Earlier, the so-called Internal Ministry of Donetsk Peoples Republic refused to issue citizenship to one of the founders of this terrorist group, Andrey Purgin, as Gazeta.ru reported. Andrey Purgin occupied the post of Chairman of Peoples Council of Republic in 2015 and stated that he got the refusal for the issuance of DPR passport. The refusal also concerned his wife; however, she still lives in the territory occupied by the militants and pays taxes. Economic negotiations between the delegation of the party Opposition Platform - For Life, headed by Viktor Medvedchuk and Yury Boyko, and Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Gazprom head Alexei Miller were held in Moscow on March 22 The President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko at the session of Kirovograd Council of regional development in Kropyvnytsky, February 28, 2019 Twitter Petro Poroshenko President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko condemns the visit of presidential candidate Yuriy Boyko and the chairman of the political council of Opposition platform For Life Party Viktor Medvedchuk to Russia, as well as talks with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Gazprom head Alexei Miller. He stated this during a speech at the Council of Regional Development in Chernivtsi region, reports 112 Ukraine. "You saw yesterday news and videos from the Kremlin ... They are discussing the economic matters ... They are discussing how to hang Ukraine again on the Russian gas needle, they are already discussing alliances that will be created after the presidential election, after the parliamentary elections, and now they all say that everyone will unite. Against whom will they unite? Against Ukraine, against each of us," he said. We recall that economic negotiations were held in Moscow on March 22 by the delegation of the party Opposition Platform - For Life, headed by Viktor Medvedchuk and Yury Boyko, with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Gazprom head Alexei Miller. Russias Gazprom is ready to hold direct negotiations on the concluding of a new contract for the Russian gas supply to the Ukrainian market. Alexey Miller, the Head of company made such statement during the meeting with the Delegation of Political Party Opposition platform For life headed by Viktor Medvedchuk, the chairman of political council and Yuriy Boyko, the founder of the party and presidential candidate and Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Medvedev. Of course, it is early to talk about particular price and contract. But, knowing about the high level of price for the end-consumers, present at the Ukrainian market today, it is possible to say that the price at the new contract will be lower for quarter for the end-consumer in Ukraine in comparison with the current level, Miller said. Viktor Medvedchuk, the Head of the Political Council of the Opposition platform For life told which Gazprom issues they discussed during the meeting between the party delegation together with the supported by the party presidential candidate Yuriy Boyko with the Prime Minister of Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev and Gazprom head Alexey Miller. Speaking about the direct gas supplies from Russia, I would like to outline what Yuriy Bouko and also Gazprom head Alexey Miller stated that when we know the price of gas supply to Russia, there is an opportunity today, it can be a subject of new negotiations, of reducing gas supplies to Ukraine up 25%. 11:13 | Lima, Mar. 23. During that time, he pledged to fight against corruption and empower the Inca country's regions. March 21 Pedro Pablo Kuczynski resigned as Peru's president after nearly 20 months in power in the face of a forthcoming impeachment vote and amid scandal. March 23 The engineer who replaced Ex-Head of State Pedro Pablo Kuczynski had been serving as Vice-President and Ambassador to Canada based in Ottawa. April 2 President Martin Vizcarra swore in 19 State Ministers , 10 days after having taken office as the new Head of State and Government. April 13 May 25 The extradition appeal was made by the First Preparatory Investigation Court for alleged crimes of influence peddling, collusion, and money laundering. June 1 Eyvi Agreda a femicide victim who was set on fire inside a public transport bus in April passed away at Lima-based Guillermo Almenara Hospital. Her death encouraged authorities to take stricter measures to combat gender violence June 15 July 7 July 19 His stepping down came amid a crisis in the justice system, which led to designing a comprehensive reform of the Judiciary. July 20 Supreme Prosecutor Pedro Chavarry was sworn in as Attorney General for the 2018-2021 term, amid a corruption scandal involving members of the country's justice administration system. July 26 July 28 September 3 September 11 October 3 A judge issued search and arrest warrants against Fujimori in order to send him back to jail. However, his son Kenji took him to Lima-based Centenario Clinic. October 4 Congress approved that suspended judge Cesar Hinostroza be dismissed , banned from holding public office for 10 years, and accused of organized crime involvement. October 7 October 10 October 19 Former Supreme Judge Cesar Hinostroza was arrested in Madrid (Spain) after he left the Andean country despite a travel ban imposed on him by the Judicial Branch. November 1 Former presidential candidate Keiko Fujimori was transferred to prison , where she would serve 36-month preventive detention over alleged money laundering charges , as ordered by a judge the previous day. Seal of Disapproval Ed Vielmetti has won the right to show Ann Arbor's city seal in an online encyclopedia. by Patrick Dunn From the March, 2019 issue A longtime local techie, Vielmetti is a dedicated follower (and live-Tweeter) of city council meetings, and an equally dedicated investigator of city affairs; he once wrote a regular "FOIA Fridays" column on DamnArbor.com. He most recently took issue with an ordinance council adopted in July, asserting the seal was the city's "exclusive property" and establishing a fine of up to $10,000 for anyone who used it outside the conduct of city business without the mayor's approval. The day the ordinance passed, Vielmetti added a caption to the image of the seal on ArborWiki (localwiki.org/ann-arbor/): "Not authorized by the City of Ann Arbor." Was he trying to preempt a legal challenge or make a sarcastic comment on the ordinance? "Maybe a little bit of both," he chuckles. More provocatively, he sent mayor Christopher Taylor and city attorney Stephen Postema a link to an entry about the city seal on ArborWiki, an open-source encyclopedia on Ann Arbor to which Vielmetti regularly contributes. The entry contains a drolly humorous history of the seal and an image of it. Senior assistant city attorney Matthew Rechtien fired back a cease-and-desist letter, demanding that he remove the "illicit content." Rechtien also sent a letter to LocalWiki, the San Francisco-based nonprofit that hosts ArborWiki and other similar sites, threatening a fine of up to $10,000 if the seal was not removed. "I wonder if I could have avoided most of this by not saying anything, but there's a principle to the thing," Vielmetti says. "It seems absurd to have an encyclopedia be in violation of a local law." After Vielmetti read Rechtien's letter aloud at a council meeting, he and LocalWiki both received letters from Mayor Taylor approving their use of the seal. But the ordinance still rankled Vielmetti. He calls the provision allowing the mayor to sanction certain uses of the seal "completely bogus." "It's not up to the mayor to make that decision," he says. "That's a straight-up First Amendment ...continued below... right." Vielmetti reached out to the ACLU of Michigan, who agreed with him and sent the city a letter in November asserting the ordinance's unconstitutionality.The city caved. In January, council adopted a heavily revised version that only forbids using the seal to give a false impression of city endorsement.The ordinance's origins are unclear. Emails obtained by Vielmetti under a Freedom of Information Act request show that city administrator Howard Lazarus and other city officials were concerned about the citizen-led Ann Arbor Police Task Force's use of the seal last May. But Lazarus says internal discussions about use of the seal went back farther than that, to concerns over solar energy installer Geostellar's use of the seal on its website.Lazarus says his main concern was avoiding false impressions of city endorsement, describing it as "good business practice." "If we were a private enterprise it would be protection of our brand," he says.Vielmetti says he's not terribly surprised by the way the situation played out. "I just basically sent a link to a lawyer who had just drafted a law against this, and I'm not at all surprised that the city took the hard line that it did," he says. "If you're a new city attorney trying to make your mark, you probably have to try to defend the ordinance you just wrote."He expresses a very reserved satisfaction with the resolution. "It feels like a victory in some sense but sort of a weird victory in that you wish you'd never had to have done it," he says."This particular case has not been a challenge to get people interested in because there's conflict and principles," he says. But the fact it fell to him to challenge the law highlights the city's shortage of professional watchdogs.[Originally published in March, 2019.] YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. A nationwide subbotnik, or a community service day, has kicked off in Armenia as part of the Clean Armenia program initiated by the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Development. Cleaning, waste removal, landscaping and other improvement activities will take place today in all towns, communities and cities across Armenia. Citizens are encouraged to be actively involved in this voluntary initiative. Government officials are also taking part in the cleaning. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan himself is participating in the event, cleaning the streets of Yerevan together with ordinary citizens. Mayor Hayk Marutyan, Cabinet members and lawmakers are also actively involved. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan sent a message of condolence to Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi following the tragic incident in Mosul, the PMs Office said. I was deeply grieved to learn of the tragic incident in Mosul which claimed about a hundred human lives. At this difficult moment, we express our solidarity with you and the friendly people of Iraq. I offer my condolences to the victims families, wishing them patience and fortitude, and the injured a speedy recovery, the PM said in the cable. Nearly 100 people have drowned after a ferry capsized in the Tigris River near Mosul in Iraq on March 21. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. More than 2800 residential buildings have been damaged as a result of the March 21 explosion at the Jiangsu Tianjiayi Chemical Company, on the outskirts of the city of Yancheng in Jiangsu Province in China, RIA Novosti reported. 89 homes have been damaged beyond repair. Local authorities have announced victims will be provided with compensations. The death toll in the explosion is currently 64. More than 600 were injured. Police detained personnel of the factory on Friday amid an ongoing investigation into the cause of the deadly blast. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Members of Parliament and parliament staff are actively participating in the nationwide community service day. They are cleaning the streets and planting trees at Yerevans Circle Park. Chief of Staff of the National Assembly (parliament) Tigran Galstyan told reporters they are planning to plant about 60 trees. The [Yerevan] City Hall has provided necessary equipment and their employees will transport the waste to landfills, he said. He said 60 lawmakers will join the cleaning works. Speaker of Parliament Ararat Mirzoyan is also actively participating, together with his wife and children. The goal is to clean public areas and overall it will be good if we didnt litter, and also understand that this is all our common territory and we must treat it with care, Mirzoyan said. This is yet another occasion to talk with the people, said Gevorg Petrosyan, MP from the opposition Tsarukyan faction, who is also participating in the community service day. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian Government is carrying out research to understand what would be more beneficial having a waste re-processing factory or putting the emphasis on bio-energy, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan told reporters today. The PM stressed that in case of the reprocessing factory the outcome is different, whereas in the second case energy can be produced. This isnt a matter of a political decision, experts must study the structure of the accumulated waste and say which option would be more effective, he said. He reminded an earlier statement made by him when he had said that the revolution will reach its final goal when they will completely get rid of car scraps and rusty kiosks. And I am very happy now that the Charentsavan Metallurgical Plant has reacted to my call. They are collecting the rusty scrapped cars from different places, he said. The PM said he is unhappy with the exiting situation in terms of cleanliness in the country. Asked how it should be tackled, he said first of all it simply requires not littering, and throwing garbage where it belongs garbage bins. When youll come to me and say it has been done, Ill tell you more about the continuation. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan today attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the new building of the Sos Sargsyan Hamazgayin Theater in Yerevan. The event, however, took place with a delay because soon after arriving at the area the prime minister noticed waste and garbage nearby. He said he will not participate in the event in such conditions and personally took the shovel and began cleaning the waste. Yerevan Mayor Hayk Marutyan, actors of the theater and construction workers joined the prime minister, as today a nationwide community service day is underway. Everything must be clean, you cant come and stand in garbage and participate in a ceremony. We arent honoring Sos Sargsyans memory in garbage, the form is there but the content is not, Pashinyan said. The PM and the Yerevan Mayor eventually participated in the groundbreaking ceremony, soon after the area was clean. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Defense of Armenia Davit Tonoyan held a meeting with Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, the defense ministry said in a press release. During the meeting the sides discussed the situation at the Artsakh-Azerbaijan line of contact (LoC) and the Armenia-Azerbaijan state border. In particular, Tonoyan briefed Kasprzyk on the tactical situation and possible developments. In turn, Kasprzyk informed the defense minister on the upcoming agenda issues of the negotiations process. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Chief of the General Staff of the Armenian Armed Forces Lt. General Artak Davtyan has chaired a consultation today with the top command of the military to discuss the monthly report and upcoming planned events, the defense ministry said in a press release. During the meeting he awarded Major General Avetik Muradyan, the former commander of the aviation department, for many years of service. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Armenian President Armen Sarkissian has once again visited Gyumri, and the visit was again an unofficial one. A reporter saw Sarkissian walking the streets of Gyumri on Friday, and asked him to comment on the visit. For me Gyumri is home, Ive come home, and this doesnt need any particular arrangement, the president said. Sarkissian toured the citys historic central district, and talked with passersby. Walking down the Abovyan Street, Sarkissian saw a movie set in action. He approached the production team to find out more about the film, and saw two children, Ani and Manvel, who are child actors portraying two characters in one part. Sarkissian talked to the young actors and invited them over to have tea and dessert at a nearby patisserie-cafe Aregak. Aregak, meaning sun, is an inclusive cafe that Sarkissian visits very often. The kids and the production team of the movie were delighted to have the chance to sit down with the president himself. Sarkissian commended the production of a film about the city, and overall any reference to the culture, history and traditions of Gyumri, once again attaching importance to the citys revival. The president then continued touring the city and viewed ongoing construction works. Speaking to reporters, the president said that Gyumri has the kind of architectural and cultural heritage that even the most developed cities around the world do not have. I am trying to achieve Gyumri being recognized also as an international cultural heritage because there arent many cities as beautiful as this one. This is a lengthy process but we must pass this path, Sarkissian said. He said Gyumri must also be recognized inside Armenia, and domestic visits must increase. We all have something to do, both businessmen, scholars and artists. Gyumri must become attractive, as a city of culture, arts, crafts and history. Gyumri isnt an ordinary city, Gyumri is an extraordinary city. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. NATO is planning to build a depot in Poland during two years which will house American military equipment, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told The Wall Street Journal. This shows the way we are working with the United States, Stoltenberg said in the interview. NATO will spend 260,000,000 dollars for the storage facility. The depot in Powidz, a village in Poland, will be used to store American armored vehicles, ammunition and weapons. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. The Kurdish community of Armenia gathered at the Arno Babajanyan Philharmonic Hall in Yerevan to celebrate Nawroz. Head of the Kurdish community of Armenia, Member of Parliament Knyaz Hasanov delivered remarks, congratulating on the holiday. He said that Nawroz is one of the most important holidays that roots back to pagan times. Today, Kurds around the world are starting common fires wherever they live, in settlements, in villages and cities, and all day they dance and rejoice around this fire, Hasanov said, referring to the traditional Nawroz fire. Then, when the struggle of the Kurdish people began under the leadership of our leader Abdulah Ojalan, Nawroz was re-interpreted, re-developed and became a national-liberation movement of the Kurdish people. In Turkey, Nawroz celebrations are banned for the Kurds, however our people do not fear anything, millions have gone out to celebrate and congratulate their national holiday, he said. On March 21, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed the Armenian Kurdish community on Nawruz. I cordially congratulate the representatives of the Kurdish community in Armenia on Nowruz, the New Year. Nowruz is one of the oldest and most popular national holidays of the Kurds. It coincides with the spring equinox and is perceived as a symbol of nature awakening and the beginning of the New Year. Let this spring holiday be a fresh start on the way to materializing your dreams, as a symbol of new life for our Kurdish friends, who are part of Armenias fraternal family of equal nations. Let the New Year be a year of peace, solidarity, new achievements and every success. I wish the Kurdish community of Armenia prosperity, happiness and perseverance: together, we must build a free, fair and prosperous country for us all, Pashinyan said. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Incumbent Gladys Berejiklian has become the first elected female Premier of Australias largest state of New South Wales. While it is yet unclear whether she will win with a majority or minority government, the Leader of the Opposition Michael Daley has conceded defeat. Australian-Armenian Berejiklian's victory has ensured she also makes history as the first leader of the Liberal (LIB) and National (NAT) Coalition to lead her political party to a third consecutive term in office. Premier Gladys Berejiklian fought back tears as she lauded NSW as "a state in which someone with a long surname and a woman can be the premier, Sydney Morning Herald reported. "I'm incredibly proud of the wonderful place in which we live. And what is most important to me is that, no matter what your background where you live, what your circumstances everybody in this state has the chance to be their best." Berejiklian assumed premiership the first time in 2017 following the resignation of Mike Baird as NSW Liberal leader and Premier. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Jailed former President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan has filed a complaint to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) for the fifth time. The complaint argues that his objection regarding his arrest has not been examined immediately, Kocharyans lawyer Hayk Alumyan told reporters. According to Alumyan, paragraph 4 of article 5 of the European Convention stipulates that any individual who has been incarcerated is entitled to object the arrest and a higher court is bound to immediately release them if the arrest took place unlawfully. Alumyan says there are judgments where the ECHR has stipulated that the higher court must examine the complaint immediately. The ECHR hasnt yet responded to any of Kocharyans complaints. Alumyan says theyve filed a complaint to the Court of Cassation back in December of 2018. The court has not only not examined it, but it didnt even launch proceedings. He argues that the delay can be considered a violation of the European Convention. 2nd President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan, who ruled the country from 1998 to 2008, spent two weeks in jail in summer of 2018, but was eventually freed. But on December 7, a higher court overruled the release and ordered him to be remanded into custody pending trial again. At the time the court announced the verdict, Kocharyan turned himself in to authorities. Kocharyan is charged with overthrowing constitutional order during the 2008 post-election unrest, when clashes between security forces and protesters left 10 people dead, including two police officers, during his final days as president. He vehemently denies wrongdoing. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC-AU) has congratulated Armenian-Australian Gladys Berejiklian on becoming the first elected female Premier of Australia's largest state of New South Wales, ANC-AU reported through its official website. While it is yet unclear whether she will win with a majority or minority government, the Leader of the Opposition Michael Daley has conceded defeat, and Berejiklian has accepted victory. A gracious Berejiklian thanked many in her speech, reserving special praise for the people of New South Wales: "No matter your background or where you live, you can be the Premier of New South Wales - a state where someone with a long surname and a woman can be the Premier." Berejiklian's victory has ensured she also makes history as the first leader of the Liberal (LIB) and National (NAT) Coalition to lead her political party to a third consecutive term in office. "This is a historic day for Armenian-Australians and for the global Armenian community, as Ms Berejiklian continues to be the most powerful Armenian woman in world politics; this time being elected in her own right to lead the executive branch of a government that runs a state of 7 million people - the largest state of a G20 nation," said ANC-AU Executive Director, Haig Kayserian. "The Armenian community of New South Wales is filled with joy, as support for Ms Berejiklian extends beyond party politics - the opportunity for an Armenian-Australian, for 'Our Gladys' to be elected was too big not to get completely behind," Kayserian added. ANC-AU has also congratulated the following close friends of the Armenian-Australian community, who were re-elected to their seats in the NSW Parliament: Premier Gladys Berejiklian (LIB) has also retained her seat of Willoughby; The Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of Armenia, Jonathan O'Dea (LIB) has retained the seat of Davidson; Finance Minister Victor Dominello (LIB) has retained the seat of Ryde; Treasurer Dominic Perrottet (LIB) has won the seat of Epping after moving there from Hawkesbury; Hugh McDermott (ALP) has retained the seat of Prospect; Kevin Conolly (LIB) has retained the seat of Riverstone; Education Minister Rob Stokes (LIB) has retained the seat of Pittwater; Multicultural Affairs Minister Ray Williams (LIB) has retained the seat of Castle Hill; Mark Coure (LIB) has retained the seat of Oatley; James Griffin (LIB) has retained the seat of Manly; Alister Henskens (LIB) has retained the seat of Ku-ring-gai; Gareth Ward (LIB) has retained the seat of Kiama; Anna Watson (ALP) has retained the seat of Shellharbour; Felicity Wilson (LIB) has retained the seat of North Shore; Guy Zangari (ALP) has retained the seat of Fairfield. "We congratulate all our friends and victors during the NSW State Election, which includes a series of Members in the Legislative Council that will become clearer in coming days," Kayserian said. "We also extend our condolences to all losing candidates, many of whom we met and won support from on key issues to our community, including but not limited to justice for the Armenian Genocide and the rights to self-determination of the Armenians of the Republic of Artsakh." Kayserian added: "We also wish to thank all our community volunteers, who helped the Armenian National Committee of Australia understand community needs and numbers during this NSW State Election campaign." YEREVAN, MARCH 23, ARMENPRESS. Taliban has claimed responsibility for the twin blasts in southern Afghanistan, RIA Novosti reported. According to updated death toll data, the explosions killed at least three people, and more than 30 were injured. Many local officials are among the wounded. Twin explosions rocked Farmers Day ceremony in Lashkargah city, the provincial capital of Helmand province in Afghanistan. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan The contractor, which asked that its name not be used to protect the welfare of its Manus Island-based staff, rejected the donation request and reported it to senior department officials in late 2017. It's understood more than one contractor has experienced similar problems. When the company, which was working for the Home Affairs department on the offshore detention regime, refused the request, the company's senior managers began to encounter problems with visas for staff to enter or remain in PNG. MELBOURNE - An Australian government contractor on Manus Island was asked by a senior Papua New Guinea official in 2017 for a multi-million-dollar donation to the ruling party of prime minister Peter ONeill. Manus from the air - looks peaceful but corruption, greed and exploitation roil beneath If the company had made the donation of K20 million to the Peoples National Congress party, it would have likely committed a criminal offence under Australias foreign bribery laws. There is no suggestion Mr ONeill was aware of the donation request. Home Affairs did not address questions on how it responded to the political donation request. A spokesman said contractors were required to abide by the laws of Australia, PNG and Nauru, including compliance with foreign bribery legislation. An investigation by The Age and Sydney Morning Herald has found serious problems with Australias exposure to corruption through the $5 billion offshore detention, as well as its wider interactions on PNG. Australias law enforcement integrity watchdog has identified corruption issues within the Australian Federal Polices procurement practices in PNG following a 2017 whistleblower complaint. Despite finding two instances of possible corruption within the AFP's PNG procurements, the Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity referred the matter back to the police to let the force investigate itself. Serious doubts over the adequacy of the AFPs subsequent investigation have since emerged, with no federal police agents, unsworn staff or contract winners questioned. Instead, a paperwork audit of the contracts was done. The Age and Herald can also reveal that Australian agencies have experienced similar problems when providing payments to PNG to shore-up the revival of the Lombrum naval base to curb Chinas regional influence. The flow of money from Australia has created a culture of expectation among some senior PNG politicians and officials. PNG government representatives also began to make demands in high-level meetings in Canberra for Home Affairs to order its Australian-owned and operated contractors to hire PNG companies on lucrative sub-contracts. While Australian government agencies and departments refer to PNG as a difficult environment to operate in, an internal 2018 AFP report seen by The Age and Sydney Morning Herald is more direct and describes PNG as having significant corruption issues. Australias offshore detention policy, supported by both Labor and Coalition federal governments since its operational revival in 2013, has cost more than $5 billion. Huge contracts have been awarded to companies in cloudy circumstances. These are often then split into sub-contracts involving politically-connected PNG-based interests. This flow of money, according to several well-placed sources working for Home Affairs and the PNG government, has created a culture of expectation among some senior PNG politicians and officials. With offshore detention and now the Lombrum base on the agenda there is an attitude in some senior levels in PNG that they have Australia over a barrel, said one Australian contractor with long experience in PNG. The Age and Sydney Morning Herald last week revealed emails from within PNGs biggest bank where a senior manager wrote that he believed his client, a PNG landowner company called NKW Holdings, was inflating its invoices to the Australian government under an $82 million contract awarded by Home Affairs. The AFP spent almost $50 million and had dozens of officers based in PNG as part of Australias commitment to help the country safely host last years APEC summit. At least four former PNG-based federal police officers were concerned about procurement practices and alleged conflicts of interest involving millions of dollars worth of contracts. The Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity assessed information about the AFPs PNG procurement arrangements and deemed that two corruption issues were identified. It then referred the matter back to the AFP for investigation and an unsworn staff member began a paperwork audit of relevant PNG contracts. This process found that the signatures of senior officials whose approval was required to award a $1 million building contract to Red Sea Housing Services which had already won several federal police-funded tenders in PNG without competition - were copied and pasted in breach of procurement rules. A handful of contracts had also not been registered on the AFPs procurement database as required. Several AFP officers formerly based in PNG are understood to be deeply disappointed with the way the federal police investigated their allegations. Among the allegations was the claim that direct approaches had been made to Saudi-owned building firm Red Sea Housing Services for the purchase of jet skis and provision of dogs for the PNG police. No interviews were done with AFP officers or winning contractors and alleged conflicts of interest and a drinking club culture involving senior federal police based in PNG was also not investigated. The overall finding of the paperwork audit was that nearly all the AFPs PNG contracts were being documented properly and meeting procurement criteria. It did note that the AFP mission in PNG was extensively using exemptions in procurement rules to engage suppliers directly. Processes in Mission need to be looked at to ensure the justification for the items/services being procured are robust, justified and are the best use of Commonwealth resources, the investigation report concluded. An AFP spokesman confirmed complaints were raised and an investigation followed. But he was not able to discuss the nature of the investigation or its findings. Lengthy written complaints by several former PNG-based AFP agents detail a broader story about the workplace culture of the federal police mission in Port Moresby and its effect on procurement practices. The complaints raise questions about the process that led to a $1.1 million contract to provide bomb detection dogs and training to the PNG police force being awarded to a company part-owned by a former senior New South Wales policeman. At least three former PNG-based AFP agents raised concerns about the canine contract, including the apparent loss of documentation authorising a direct approach to Queensland Police about its dogs and a subsequent directive to invite Dog Force Group Pty Ltd to tender for provision of dogs to PNG police. Dog Force Group is part owned by former senior NSW policeman, who used to work with at least one of the AFP's PNG-based officer. There is no suggestion of any wrongdoing by Dog Force Group nor doubts about its ability to carry out the contract. However, there were contrasting opinions about whether Dog Force Group or a competing company were best qualified to fulfil the needs of the contract. A decision by an unsworn AFP coordinator in PNG to overrule the position of the forces maritime advisers to buy six jet skis at the cost of $100,000 at extremely short notice was also raised in the whistleblower complaint. The jet skis were gifted to PNG police who were not trained to operate them. No one in mission, including Maritime advisers are qualified to operate these jet skis let alone train RPNGC members it is irresponsible and dangerous, the complaint stated. The AFP spokesman said staff deployed overseas underwent special governance training. If an investigation raised issues with procurement practices overseas, action was taken to ensure to prevent future problems, he said. (Reuters) - More than 300 Boeing 737 MAX jets have been grounded worldwide after two fatal crashes in the past five months in Ethiopia and Indonesia killed nearly 350 people. Investigators looking to uncover the causes must answer one of the biggest questions: Was the plane's software to blame? WHAT WE KNOW - Boeing has stopped delivery of all new MAX jets. Its shares have fallen 12 percent since the Ethiopian Airlines crash, wiping $28 billion from its market value. - Boeing maintains its new, fuel-efficient jets are safe, but supported the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) decision to ground them. - Europe and Canada said they would independently certify the safety of the jets, further complicating plans to get the aircraft flying. - Boeing will mandate on MAX jets a previously optional cockpit warning light, which might have warned of problems that possibly played a role in the recent crashes of Ethiopian and Indonesian planes, sources said. - Indonesia's flag carrier Garuda said on Friday it sent a letter to Boeing asking to cancel an order for 49 MAX 8 aircraft, becoming the first airline to confirm plans to cancel an order after the crashes. - Investigators have found similarities in the 'angle of attack' data from both flights. A piece of a stabilizer in the wreckage of the Ethiopian jet with the trim set in an unusual position was similar to that of the Lion Air plane, sources said. - Investigators who verified data from the black box recorders of the Ethiopian plane have found 'clear similarities' with the doomed Lion Air flight, French air accident authority BEA has also said. - Experts believe a new flight control system, MCAS, on the jets, designed to stop stalling by dipping the nose, may have been a factor in both crashes, with pilots unable to override it as their jets plunged after a faulty sensor indicated a stall. But no conclusive evidence yet links the two accidents. - The pilot of the Ethiopian flight had reported internal control problems and received permission to return. The pilot of the Lion Air flight, which crashed on Oct. 29 with the loss of all 189 aboard, had also asked to return soon after take-off from Jakarta. Story continues - Investigators confirmed a Reuters report that the Lion Air pilots scrambled through a handbook to understand why the jet was lurching downwards in the final minutes before it hit the water. - Indonesia has advanced the date for the release of its report on the Lion Air crash to between July and August, versus a previous schedule of between August and September. - Boeing's commercial airplane division has brought in a new vice president of engineering while dedicating another top executive to the aircraft investigations, a company email showed. WHAT'S NEXT? - U.S. lawmakers said the planes could be grounded for weeks to upgrade and install the software in every plane. Other countries may ground the planes even longer. - The U.S. Transportation Department's inspector general plans to audit the FAA's certification of the jet, an official with the office said this week. The office can recommend changes or improvements to how the FAA operates. - The U.S. Justice Department is also looking at the FAA's oversight of Boeing, one of the people said. The FAA has said it is "absolutely" confident in its vetting. - The chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives transportation committee and another key Democrat asked the Transportation Department's inspector general to examine key decisions the FAA made in certifying the MAX jet for use. - U.S. President Donald Trump will nominate former Delta Air Lines executive Steve Dickson to head the FAA, the White House said. - Ethiopian Airlines said on March 16 that DNA testing of the remains of the passengers may take up to six months. (Compiled by Ben Klayman, Sayantani Ghosh, Mark Potter and Keith Weir; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Alexander Smith) Kate Middleton has stunned fashion-watchers in a green ensemble during her annual appearance at the St Patricks Day parade at the Cavalry Barracks in London. The duchess, who appearance alongside Prince William, wore a new dark green military-style coat for the event believed to be a bespoke number by Alexander McQueen. Kate teamed the coat with a matching floral hat, her Gianvito Rossi black pumps and her Kiki McDonough tourmaline and green amethyst drop earrings. The gold Cartier shamrock brooch was pinned to her left shoulder a piece which belongs to the Irish Guards, who loan it out to female members of the royal family. The Duchess of Cambridge has attended the event every year since 2012, except for 2016 when she decided to stay home at Amner Hall ahead of a royal tour. Photo: Getty Images Will and Kate even downed a Guinness for the day that was in it. Photo: Getty Images Kate handed out shamrock to 1st Battalion the Irish Guards, including their mascot Irish Wolfhound Domhnall. William, who is Colonel of the Irish Guards, took the salute after the march past. The duchess has attended the event every year since 2012, except in 2016 when she controversially decided to spend time with Prince George and Princess Charlotte before jetting off on the royal tour of India and Bhutan. Kate wore a new dark green military-style coat for the event believed to be a bespoke number by Alexander McQueen. Photo: Getty Images Last year she was eight months pregnant with Prince Louis during the parade making it one of her last engagements before she went off on maternity leave. This week Kate will accompany the Queen to open Bush House at Kings College London on Tuesday and she will then carry out a solo visit to the Foundling Museum, which tells the story of the Foundling Hospital, Britains first home for children at risk of abandonment. Got a story tip? Send it to lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com Want more lifestyle and celebrity news? Follow Yahoo Lifestyle on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Or sign up to our daily newsletter here. Travel bugs have been offered the trip of a lifetime with free flights from Australia to Canada but theres a catch. Photo: Getty Images Travel bugs are being extended the offer of a lifetime, with one company offering flights from Australia to Canada for free. However the deal is not without a catch, and would-be travellers must take advantage of the offer by purchasing the 22-night Polar Bear and Canada Fair trip which includes a 10-night cruise around Newfoundlands rugged coast. Although pricey options start from $16,695 twin-share the holiday promises to be an unforgettable one. On the cross-country agenda is three-nights pre-cruise accommodation in Montreal and two nights in both Toronto and Vancouver following the trip. A once-in-a-lifetime four-day jaunt to the polar bear capital of the world in icy Churchill, northern Ontario, also helps explain the trips steep price tag. Meanwhile if Canada isnt top of your travel list, theres some other deals around. If youre willing to foot the flights bill and scrimp on the extras, Virgin Australia is offering what theyve dubbed a sale of the decade on flights to the USA. Botswana provided the back drop to where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle fell in love and now trips there are on sale. Photo: Getty Images Fares include Brisbane to Los Angeles from $949 return, Melbourne to San Francisco from $1,046 return, Melbourne to New York from $1,106 return and Sydney to Las Vegas from $1,046 return. For travellers seeking something hot, an equally inviting deal sees the price of a nine-day trip to Botswana slashed by almost a third to $2,648 per person twin-share The rugged country is known for its otherworldly safaris, huge inland deltas and famously provided the backdrop to where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle first fell in love. As part of the offer, sun seekers will be treated to a 44 trip through Chobe National Park, up close glimpses of Victoria Falls and an unforgettable lodge stay overlooking an elephant water hole. Got a story tip? Send it to lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com Want more lifestyle and celebrity news? Follow Yahoo Lifestyle on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Or sign up to our daily newsletter here. A famous body modification artist cut out a clients inner ear in conch removal surgery. Sonchai Maiber, from Calm Body Modification in Stockholm, Sweden, said on Facebook on Friday (local time) he was truly humbled to work on client Charles V. Bentley who travelled from Australia to have the procedure. To get some facts straight note that this procedure doesnt make you deaf, Mr Maiber said under two photos of Mr Bentleys modified ears. It might impair your ability to hear the direction of sound for the first week or two until your mind has adjusted to your new ears. Hearing from behind will in fact improve. Our ears dont catch sound as it did aeons of years ago when our ears were bigger hence why we have to create a bigger ear by cupping our hand around our ear to hear better. Mr Maiber was not immediately available for comment when contacted by Yahoo. At the time of publication, his photo was shared 15,000 times and has resulted in memes and puns. Unfortunately, that is ear-reversable, one person said. But professionals challenged Mr Maibers physiological claims. Just as a concerned audiologist .. literally every comment of yours regarding his hearing is WRONG. All of it. Completely incorrect, one professional said. I have been a nurse almost 30 years so I have a lot to say about this but I am gonna leave it at those are the most amazingly perfect sutures that I have EVER seen. You should take up quilting or black market liver sales, another person wrote. Audiologist here. You may hear better from behind but you will have far more difficulty knowing whether a sound is in fact behind or in front of you. Plus a bunch of other stuff you said is wrong but thats a big one, a fourth person said. Toronto audiologist Maryam Ghaderi told CTVNews.ca: If you have that part missing, I would guess a bit of your hearing would be affected probably your sense of localising sound. To say how much in terms of a percentage of hearing loss is hard to say. 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. It once flew over a chunk of the Middle East larger than Britain but on Saturday the Islamic State group's sinister black banner lay crumpled in the dust of its final bastion. A few metres from the reedy banks of the mighty Euphrates, what was likely one of the last flags of the "caliphate" had been torn and trampled. Near it was one of at least 10 discarded explosives belts spotted by AFP reporters in the last strip of land conquered by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. In a small and remote village near the Iraqi border, the nightmare of the "Islamic caliphate" has ended. The encampment on the edge of the village of Baghouz where the jihadists made their last stand is a churned-up wasteland of tents and truck carcasses. Music rings out from one of the SDF cars, and the applause of male and female fighters echoes across the hills surrounding the fallen jihadist encampment. "Three days ago we clutched our weapons, trying to break forward even a few metres," a fighter called Rami says. But "now we've finished with IS and its black banner and we've hoisted our own instead," the 33-year-old tells AFP. On the rooftop of a battle-scarred building near the Euphrates, a large yellow SDF flag now flies in the breeze. A small group of fighters have already removed their military uniforms, to slip on jeans, tracksuits and sandals. - 'Get married' - Just two days ago, they were combing the camp for holdout jihadists, when suddenly three suicide bombers jumped out from a tunnel wearing explosives belts. "They were running, we were scared. We killed one, and the other two blew themselves up," says a 25-year-old fighter who gives his name as Ashkarani. A fellow fighter was wounded and he had to carry him off to their armoured vehicle for evacuation, says the fighter from a small village in the wider province of Deir Ezzor says. His wounded comrade is now in the Kurdish-held city of Qamishli further north and recovering, he says. "It was just a light wound," adds Ashkarani, wearing a track suit rolled up above his ankles and sandals on his feet. When victory was declared, he emptied his last cartridge into the air. "We put music on. We started to dance," one of his friends interjects, laughing. Ashkarani has already told his fiancee he and his comrades have finally won after a grinding months-long battle. "I told her we'd finished and and we were coming home. She was happy," he says. "We're expecting to get married in 10 or 20 days time." At the foot of a hill, only charred cars and abandoned canvas remain of the cross-border "caliphate" that the extremist group declared in 2014 across large swathes of Syria and neighbouring Iraq. - Tunisians, Moroccans - Amid the skeletons of scorched vehicles, sheets, plastic carpets and thick blankets flap in the wind, once hastily thrown over metal rods or even trees to form makeshift tents. Some cover deep trenches dug out in the ground. Behind them, the jihadists have left saucepans, plastic basins -- even a stove. Ripped clothes cling onto the side of parched, brittle bushes. All around, there are sedans, mini-buses, even water tankers. Their mangled bodywork and those windscreens that have survived are riddled with bullet holes. Just moments before the SDF announced victory, the crackle and thud of mortar fire and the whistle of sniper bullets still sounded from the front line. A plume of smoke spiralled into the sky. Hisham Haroun, 21, says the SDF's best fighters were called in for the last two days of battle. "We needed military expertise equivalent" to that of the last IS holdouts, says the young fighter, still in his camouflage fatigues. "Those who held out until the end were mainly foreigners -- Tunisians, Moroccans, and Egyptians." The yellow flag of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces billows over the Islamic State group's last redoubt of Baghouz after the jihadist black flag is finally torn down Just days ago, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces were still locked in deadly fighting with diehard jihadists of the Islamic State group Now after nearly five years of combat in which they suffered heavy losses, the SDF's fighters can celebrate victory over one of the world's most brutal and feared adversaries Now the victorious SDF fighters can look foward to returning to their families and even marriage as they celebrate with a Kurdish line dance In one jihadist bastion after another, the black flag of the Islamic State group has been torn down, including here in Iraq's second city Mosul where it declared its "caliphate" in 2014 For the defeated jihadists of the Islamic State group, an uncertain future beckons as they are marched off to prison while their women and children are crammed into displacement camps Advancing on slowly onto the stage of a Madrid theatre, Marcos Hourmann introduces himself. "I am the first doctor convicted in Spain for practising euthanasia," he informs the public at the tiny Teatro del Barrio in the Lavapies neighbourhood which is known for its leftist roots. "I wish that tonight you judge me," he later adds during the play which premiered on Thursday and which recounts Hourmanns real life experiences. The play, called "Celebrare mi muerte" or "I Will Celebrate My Death", comes as Spain gears up for a snap general election on April 28. Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has promised to make Spain the fourth country in Europe to legalise euthanasia after Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands if he wins a majority in parliament -- a move fiercely opposed by the main opposition conservative Popular Party (PP). "This is a gift that I am being given, to be able to spew" words never before said Hourmann, a 59-year-old Argentine-born doctor who was convicted of killing a terminally ill patient without trial. During the 75-minute play he recounts how in March 2005 he was the duty doctor at a hospital in Tarragona in northeastern Spain when an 82-year-old woman named Carmen who had colon cancer and multiple other ailments arrived. Hourmann tells the audience that the woman told him twice that she wanted to die but he first did what was expected of him -- he tried to save her life. When there was no more hope legally sedated her to ease her pain. But a nurse later woke him up "because Carmen continued to choke. Her daughter told me: 'I can't see her like that'," he adds during the play. Hourmann then gave Carmen with a fatal dose of potassium chloride. "If I could no longer help her live, isn't it my duty as a doctor to help her die?," Hourmann asks the audience. - 'Hypocrisies' - Just two weeks before he was set to go on trial in 2009, public prosecutors proposed a plea deal which Hourmann accepted. Instead of facing a possible ten year sentence for homicide, he was convicted of the lesser charge of involuntary manslaughter and handed a one year suspended sentence, meaning he did not spend any time behind bars. Hourmann moved to Britain where he worked as a doctor but in 2010 British tabloid The Sun launched a campaign against him, dubbing him a "killer doctor" and he became unemployed. A voice off stage asks Hourmann during the play why he registered Carmen's cause of death as being by lethal injection, which is what led to him being charged. "If I did not write it, it would be going against my ideas," he responds, adding he rejects "hypocrisies". - 'End pain' - The play is careful to include the arguments of experts and lawmakers who are "totally opposed to euthanasia," its director, Alberto San Juan, said. A doctor argues in one scene that medical ethics allow physicians to "end pain" but prohibit "ending a patient's life". Euthanasia has long grabbed public attention in Spain, which has the world's second-highest life expectancy. Spanish-Chilean director Alejandro Amenabar won the Oscar for best foreign language film in 2005 for "The Sea Inside", based on the real story of a paraplegic Spanish fisherman's 29-year campaign to win the right to end his own life with assisted suicide. Fully 84 percent of Spaniards back euthanasia for terminally ill patients who conserve their mental faculties, according to a survey published last year in daily newspaper La Vanguardia. Spain's ruling Socialists in June presented a draft law on legalising euthanasia which was backed by far-left party Podemos but the PP and centre-right Ciudadanos blocked it in a parliamentary committee in October. "The Socialist party is expert in creating inexistant problems," PP leader Pablo Casado at the time, adding the state should not intervene in people's "conscience". Argentine-born Hourmann took to the stage as Spain's government looks to make the country the fourth country in Europe to legalise euthanasia after Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands Hourmann registered his patient's cause of death as being by lethal injection, which is what led to him being charged -- but he said not to have done so would have been hypocrisy and against his principles. Hourmann calls on the audience to judge him for his actions amid the debate on potential legalisation of euthanasia, something which has emerged as a hot-button political issue South Africa: Restoring dignity, one land claim at a time President Cyril Ramaphosa says the handover of title deeds for 3 990 hectares of land is historic and restores the dignity of local communities in the West Coast. The President said this when he officiated the handover of the title deeds for the settled portions of land claims to more than 50 households of Ebenhaeser, Beeswater in the Western Cape on Saturday. The handing over of these title deeds is a historic occasion, because it includes the first ever settled land claim in the Western Cape to descendants of the Griqua people. It is in the ownership of land that we find our independence as a people. It is land that we rely on to live, to work and to eat. It is land that holds firmly the roots of our ancestors. Land is the one thing that endures the passage of time, he said. The President said the number of claims settled for the West Coast Municipality a total of 392 out of 422 by February this year is a result of cooperation between the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform and the Office of the Regional Land Claims Commissioner. The handover of the title deeds marks an end to a 16 year journey after the Ebenhaeser community first submitted their land claim. This was done through the 2005 Ebenhaeser Settlement Framework Agreement, which stipulated that there should be a Community Development and Acquisition plan (CDLAP) to guide the resolution of the Ebenheaser land claim. The Community Development and Acquisition plan was then developed in conjunction with an extended Land Claims Committee and adopted by a commission managed Community Meeting on 31 October 2013. This plan then formed the basis of the Ebenheaser Communitys position in the negotiations towards the settlement of the claim. After this, 13 June 2015 became a historic day for Ebenhaeser and the Community Property Association as the Minister of Rural Development, Gugile Nkwinti, signed a Settlement Agreement with the Ebenhaeser Community Property Association. Addressing members of the community and beneficiaries on Saturday, the President said it remained governments priority to provide the necessary support to communities who have had their land returned to them in order for it to be utilised productively and effectively, and to support the broader goals of agricultural growth and economic transformation. I am therefore particularly pleased that the Ebenhaeser community wants to use the land for productive purposes. There are already various agricultural activities, including livestock farming, taking place on some of the farms, and three harvests have been completed so far. I am pleased to note that the emerging farmers in the community are being supported through the Ebenhaeser Farmer Production Support Unit and have established a co-operative model to build capacity in livestock, vineyards, lucerne and hay production as well as fresh produce, he said. The President said the restituted farms have also acquired a quota for the delivery of wine grapes to local sellers and the community trust is engaging with Pioneer Foods around the production of raisins, currants and sultanas. He said a number of infrastructure projects have also been implemented on the restituted land. The farms have combined water rights for 132 ha from the Olifantsrivier Irrigation Scheme, which will greatly help the community in its future agricultural activities. In the future the community is looking at exploring opportunities in the rapidly growing aquaculture sector, which has significant potential benefits in terms of job creation. The other communities are also exploring opportunities in livestock and game farming, as well as possible opportunities in salt and gypsum mining. It is critical that we highlight the post-settlement futures of these claims. Land reform isnt just an imperative for social justice. It is also part of our greater drive to grow our economy and create jobs for our people, the President said. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-03-23. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday accused the United States of using frozen Venezuelan funds to bankroll mercenaries to assassinate him in a "plot" he said was directed by opposition leader Juan Guaido. "We have dismantled a plan organized personally by the diabolical puppet to kill me," Maduro told thousands of supporters in Caracas, referring to Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries. He alleged that Colombia, Venezuela's US-aligned neighbor, was also involved, and said that an unidentified Colombian paramilitary chief had been captured in the country "and is giving testimony." Maduro's government gave details of the alleged plot on state television, with Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez saying "hitmen" from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras had been recruited "using big sums of money" and sent to Colombia ahead of missions into Venezuela to carry out "targeted assassinations" and "sabotage." Rodriguez accused Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, of receiving money from the United States and being a key organizer of the alleged operation. Marrero, a 49-year-old lawyer, was arrested on Thursday in his Caracas home, triggering an outcry and demands he be immediately released by the US, the European Union and major Latin American countries that recognize Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. He yelled out to a neighbor, an opposition lawmaker, that the SEBIN intelligence officers arresting him had planted two assault rifles and a grenade in his home. Hours later, Maduro's government showed pictures of weapons it said it found and alleged Marrero was part of a "terrorist cell." - US ratchets up sanctions - Rodriguez played recordings he said were from WhatsApp conversations between Marrero and Guaido in which he said they discussed using Venezuelan funds blocked by US sanctions to finance armed groups with the support of Colombian President Ivan Duque. The accusations were repeated shortly afterwards by Maduro as he addressed a crowd of thousands of supporters in the capital. According to his government, the United States has seized $30 billion is Venezuelan assets, including money in bank accounts. Rodriguez alleged funds in accounts in Bank of America and Banesco Panama were being used in the plot. Guaido, the head of the opposition-run assembly, has asked the international community to keep up its pressure on Maduro's government. The United States has ratcheted up successive rounds of sanctions on Venezuela, suspending visas for 300 Venezuelans deemed close to the regime and making it difficult for the state-run oil company PDVSA to operate or secure credit on the markets. On April 28, the sanctions will jump up another level with an embargo on crude exports. US President Donald Trump's administration has repeatedly warned Maduro to not arrest or intimidate Guaido or his aides, or else face unspecified consequences. Trump has reiterated that "all options" -- implicitly including military action -- are on the table for dealing with Venezuela. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro delivers a speech during a pro-government demonstration in Caracas on March 23, 2019.It is two months since Juan Guaido has asserted he is Venezuela's interim president. Domestically, he has been unable to shake President Nicolas Maduro from power Shocking photos show a restaurant customer with a dead rat on his spoon after reportedly finding the rodent inside a mutton stew hot pot. Wu Yin-ming, from Taiwans northern Hsinchu City, claims he was treating a friend to a mutton hot pot when they discovered a dead rat in the stew. At a restaurant in Zhunan township on the islands western county of Miaoli, the pot arrived with the carcass floating with the food inside. Shocking photos show a restaurant customer with a dead rat on his spoon after reportedly finding the rodent inside a mutton stew hot pot. Source: AsiaWire/Australscope His photos show the dead rat, which may have drowned or been boiled alive, buried among cabbage and corn in the metal pot of stew. Im buying mutton stew for a friend and a dead rat has appeared, Mr Wu said. Whats this? Buy one, get one free? The man said the restaurant gave him a full refund for the two pots ordered. But it was believed the business did not compensate him further for the unexpected extra ingredient. Australscope Mystery surrounds the tragic murder of three young friends on holiday as police launch a fresh appeal to solve the case. The friends were holidaying in Mount Isa in Far North Queensland in October 1978 with their dog, Tristie, when they were found dead. Police said 23-year-old Karen Edwards, 31-year-old Tim Thomson and 21-year-old Gordon Twaddle left Alice Springs for a motorcycle trip to Mount Isa. Karen Edwards was 23 when she was murdered. Source: Queensland Police They were planning to travel down the east coast and celebrate Christmas with family in Melbourne. Karen, Tim and Gordon were last seen alive leaving the Moondarra Caravan Park in Mount Isa in a brown and white Toyota Landcruiser long-wheel-drive with a man on the morning of October 5. The trio were found dead in bushland at Spear Creek, 12 kilometres north of Mount Isa, with gunshot wounds on October 24. The Queensland Police cold case investigation team, along with the Mount Isa Criminal Investigation Branch, started a review in the search for answers into the unsolved 40-year-old homicide investigation last year. Gordon Twaddle, 21, was found in bushland with gunshot wounds. Source: Queensland Police Tim Thomson, 31, was found dead with two of his friends. Source: Queensland Police They are hoping renewed focus could lead to a breakthrough in the case. Despite 40 years passing, we remain committed to solving this case, bringing those responsible to justice and ultimately providing closure to the victims families, Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell said. A $250,000 reward remains in place for information which leads to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for their murders. The trio were last seen at Moondarra Caravan Park. Source: Queensland Police Police are hoping people recognise Tim Thomsons distinctive motorcycle. Source: Queensland Police Det Snr Sgt Kentwell said the renewed investigative focus was no longer linking the triple homicide to other murders publicised at the time. While we are keeping an open mind, we are no longer focusing on links to the murder of John Tzelaidis who was found deceased near Karratha in Western Australia a few months earlier, she said. Anybody with information should contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or lodge a report online. 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. Kurdish-led forces pronounced the death of the Islamic State group's nearly five-year-old "caliphate" Saturday after flushing out diehard jihadists from their very last bastion in eastern Syria. Fighters of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces raised their yellow flag in Baghouz, the remote riverside village where jihadists from many countries made a desperate last stand. The SDF's victory capped a deadly six-month operation against the final remnants of the "caliphate" which once stretched across a vast swathe of Iraq and Syria, and held seven million people in its sway. World leaders hailed the victory as a major landmark in the fight against IS and its ideology, but warned that the group that spurred a spate of global terror attacks was far from defeated. "Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and 100 percent territorial defeat of ISIS," spokesman Mustefa Bali said in a statement, using another acronym for IS. US President Donald Trump hailed the announcement but vowed to remained "vigilant" as the military coalition his country led against IS said the fight "is far from over". In Al-Omar, an oil field used by the SDF as a staging base, fighters laid down their weapons and broke into song and dance. They joined top Kurdish and Arab tribal officials, as well as a leading US envoy, for a ceremony unveiling a monument to their fallen comrades and celebrating the landmark victory. The state proclaimed in mid-2014 by fugitive IS supremo Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi started collapsing in 2017 when parallel offensives in Iraq and Syria wrested back its main hubs Mosul and Raqa. The nearly five years of fighting against the most brutal jihadist group in modern history left major cities in ruins and populations homeless. - Foreigners last - IS-held territory continued to shrink month after month and in September 2018 the SDF launched a final offensive on the last dregs of the "caliphate" in the Euphrates Valley. SDF fighters last week expelled IS fighters who refused to surrender from an encampment on the edge of Baghouz and have since been hunting down a few survivors hiding on the reedy banks of the Euphrates River. "Those who lasted the longest were mostly foreigners... Tunisians, Moroccans, Egyptians," Kurdish fighter Hisham Harun, 21, told AFP. Around him, the former jihadist encampment was littered with bullet-riddled truck carcasses, discarded suicide belts and torn tents where the caliphate's last families sheltered for weeks. Some bodies of suspected IS fighters could also be seen. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said 630 civilians, 750 SDF fighters and around 1,600 jihadists were killed in the offensive. Kurdish officers and aid groups were flummoxed by the number of people who poured out of Baghouz, a small village even few Syrians knew of until this year. As SDF forces pummelled IS positions and US warplanes dropped huge payloads on the riverside village, tens of thousands of people fled over a rocky hill. - Aid emergency - For weeks, the ghostly figures hobbled out of the besieged village, famished, often wounded but sometimes still defiantly proclaiming their support for IS. The Kurdish-led force and foreign intelligence have screened more than 60,000 people since January, around 10 percent of them jihadists turning themselves in. Most of the people evacuated from the smouldering ruins of Baghouz in recent days were relatives of IS members who now fill overcrowded camps further north in Syria's Kurdish-controlled region. The biggest of them, Al-Hol, is struggling to host 74,000 people, including at least 25,000 school-aged children. Among them are thousands of foreigners from more than 40 countries that are in most cases unwilling to take them back. "The needs are huge and the camp is overwhelmed," International Committee of the Red Cross head Peter Maurer said Friday after a five-day visit to Syria. - Still a threat - Speaking at the ceremony in Al-Omar, top SDF commander Mazloum Kobane warned that a new phase had begun in anti-IS operations. The US has vowed to draw down its forces in Syria, but Kobane appealed for sustained coalition assistance to help smash sleeper cells "which are a great threat to our region and the whole world". US coalition envoy William Roebuck agreed and said "we still have much more to do to achieve an enduring defeat" of IS. Trump vowed the United States would remain "vigilant... until it is finally defeated wherever it operates" and would continue to work with its partners "to totally crush radical Islamic terrorists". The commander of anti-IS coalition forces, Lieutenant General Paul LaCamera, echoed him saying "now is not the time to rest". "Make no mistake, Daesh is preserving their force," LaCamera said. "They have made calculated decisions to preserve what is left of their dwindling personnel and capabilities by taking their chances in camps for internally displaced persons and going to ground in remote areas. They are waiting for the right time to reemerge." French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the fall of Baghouz, saying "a significant threat to our country" has been "eliminated", while British Prime Minister Theresa May spoke of "a historic milestone". The jihadists retain a presence in eastern Syria's vast Badia desert and various other hideouts from which they could wage the kind of deadly guerrilla insurgency that accompanied the rise of the Islamic State group. John Spencer, a scholar at the Modern War Institute at West Point, warned that while the geographic caliphate had been dismantled, IS was far from defeated. IS "is a terrorist organisation, all they have to do is put down their weapons and try to blend in with the population and just escape," he told AFP. "They're not gone, and they're not going to be gone." US-backed fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces raise their flag in the Islamic State group's last redoubt of Baghouz as their commanders proclaim the total elimination of its "caliphate" The decline of the zones controlled by Islamic State group between January 2015 and March 2019 in Syria and Iraq. Fighters of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, women prominent among them, celebrate victory after nearly five years of fighting the most brutal jihadist group in modern history Suspected Islamic State group fighters, many of them wounded, file towards a screening point where they will be interrogated by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces Surrendering Islamic State group jihadists and their families flee through the arid hills around their last redoubt in biblical scenes that intensified daily The displaced arrived in camps in their thousands famished, often wounded but sometimes still defiantly proclaiming their support for the Islamic State group The sheer number of displaced has threatened to overwhelm the capacity of the camps set up to accommodate them A Turkish-born suspect has confessed to terrorist charges over a shooting on a tram in the Dutch city of Utrecht which killed three people, prosecutors said Friday. Thousands of Dutch mourners including Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte took to Utrecht's streets later Friday evening to pay their last respects to the victims of the rampage, which also left seven injured. Gokmen Tanis, 37, said he acted alone in Monday's attack which triggered an eight-hour manhunt until he was captured. "The 37-year-old suspect confessed this morning to the examining magistrate the criminal offences against him. He also stated that he acted alone," the Dutch prosecution service said in a statement. "Because of the investigation nothing else can be said." Prosecutors said on Thursday that Tanis would be charged with "multiple murders with terrorist aims, as well as attempted murder and a terrorist threat." He appeared before a magistrate behind closed doors and was expected to be remanded in custody for a further two weeks. Police had meanwhile released a 40-year-old man who was arrested on Tuesday because Tanis had been found at his home, the prosecution service said. "An in-depth investigation has been carried out into whether the man was involved in the shooting incident or helped in any way. No evidence was found and the man is therefore no longer a suspect," it said. Two other men were arrested and released earlier in the week after police sniffer dogs followed a trail from Tanis's getaway car to their house. - 'No place for hate' - More than 10,000 mourners attended the commemoration march to remember the victims. Marchers walked in silence to the 24 October Square in the city where the three people -- a 19-year-old woman from Vianen, south of Utrecht, and two men aged 28 and 49 from Utrecht itself -- lost their lives. Many were carrying flowers and long queues formed as mourners stood in line to lay them at the scene where the tram came to a halt, the Dutch public newscaster NOS reported. The marchers were carrying banners saying: "Utrecht will never be bowed" and "Je suis Utrecht/New Zealand" in a reference to the recent Christchurch shootings and the 2015 attacks in France. The city's Muslim community was also well-represented with representatives from a local mosque also laying flowers, carrying a banner saying "Muslims are at peace with humanity." Earlier, Utrecht's mayor told marchers: "Today the city is silent once again." "We are showing that Utrecht is no place for violence and hate," Jan van Zanen told the marchers, after which a moment of silence followed. Thousands of mourners including Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte took to Utrecht's streets to pay their last respects to the victims of the deadly rampage Turkish-born Gokmen Tanis, 37, said he acted alone in Monday's attack triggered a huge eight-hour manhunt until he was finally captured Colombia's President Ivan Duque said Friday he had discussed with several Latin American counterparts the possibility of offering asylum to Venezuelan servicemen who desert President Nicolas Maduro's regime. Duque said the initiative -- which he said could spark a "domino effect" to draw power away from Maduro's regime -- was discussed with Chile's Sebastian Pinera and other Latin American leaders on the sidelines of a meeting to launch a new regional bloc. Seven right wing South American presidents -- including Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro and Colombia's Ivan Duque -- gathered in Santiago to launch the new regional Forum for the Progress of South America (PROSUR). Pinera and Duque were behind the idea of creating a new bloc to replace UNASUR, a largely defunct organization created in 2008 by late Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez and his leftist Brazilian counterpart, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The move came at a time when many Latin American countries were led by leftist governments, a trend reversed in recent years. "It's a good day for collaboration, dialogue, mutual understanding and integration in South America, because for more than five years the presidents of South America have not had the opportunity to meet," said Pinera. Among the "essential conditions" for joining the bloc are "the full validity of democracy" -- which rules out Venezuela, which was not invited to the meeting. Most of the leaders present had already dismissed Maduro as illegitimate and recognize his opposition rival Juan Guaido as interim president. The organization will be "phased in" and will have a "flexible, lightweight, inexpensive structure with clear operating rules and a simple decision making mechanism that will advance concrete agreements," a statement said. Uruguay and Bolivia, ruled by leftist governments, sent representatives to the meeting but did not join the bloc. Duque told Channel 23 television that widespread asylum for Venezuelan troops "is an issue we have been talking to several governments about after the events of February 23," when Maduro's forces blocked humanitarian aid from entering Venezuela. Duque said he hoped to provoke a "massive movement of troops" from Maduro's powerful army. Duque said that up to now Colombia has given shelter to 1,200 Venezuelan military deserters. Argentine President Mauricio Macri, Colombia's Ivan Duque, Martin Vizcarra of Peru, Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro, Paraguay's Mario Abdo host President Sebastian Pinera of Chile, pictured at La Moneda palace in Santiago at the launch of the new PROSUR bloc TULSA, Okla. Looking like a No. 6 seed no one wants to play, high-scoring Buffalo breezed into the second round of the NCAA Tournament for t Browse through recently listed homes in the Auburn and Cayuga County real estate market and find your next home! CYBERSPACEChina was the most severe violator of internet freedom in the 12 months from June 2017 to May 2018, according a new report by the nonprofit pro-democracy group Freedom House, which surveyed 65 countries and found that 26, or 40 percent, experienced crackdowns on digital freedoms, as PC Magazine reported. But even with the declines in internet freedom suffered in countries including Egypt, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Kenya, Nigeria, the Philippines and Venezuela, the Freedom House reporttitled The Rise of Digital Authoritarianismfound that with its internet Great Firewall model of digital control, China reached new extremes in 2018 with the implementation of the sweeping Cybersecurity Law and upgrades to surveillance technology. But internet freedom also declined in the United States, according to Freedom House, thanks in large part to the Federal Communications Commission vote to repeal net neutrality rules, a repeal which went into effect in June of 2018, after the period covered by the report, and on which AVN.com has reported extensively. The U.S. Congress also reauthorized the FISA Amendments Act, including the controversial Section 702 which allows the government to listen in on the digital communications of foreignersbut not Americansoutside of the United States without obtaining a warrant, as CNN explained. But under Section 702, communications of Americans may be swept up in the process of spying on foreigners. By reauthorizing the law, Congress, Freedom House said, is missing an opportunity to reform surveillance powers that allow the government to conduct broad sweeps in search of non-US targets and routinely collect the personal communications of Americans in the process. The overall quality of information online in the U.S. was also of concern to the researchers. Despite an online environment that remains vibrant, diverse, and free, disinformation and hyperpartisan content continued to be of pressing concern in the United States, particularly in the run-up to the 2018 midterm elections, the report said. In many other countries, crackdowns on internet freedom followed directly after authoritarian-style leaders rose to power. On the optimistic side, 19 countries saw positive developments on the digital front, with at least some increases in online freedoms recorded by Freedom House. In Gambia, for example, internet freedoms increased after the departure of dictator Yahya Jammeh, who had ruled the African country for more than two decades, in 2017. But many of the draconian laws instituted under Jammehs regime remained in place, causing the countrys internet to receive a score of Partly Free. But that was an improvement over the previous grade of Not Free. Though the report cited disinformation and hyperpartisan content online as a threat to internet freedom, the report also noted that authoritarian regimes regularly use charges of fake news to justify crackdowns on internet freedom. Earlier this week, as AVN.com reported, Russian President Vladimir Putin enacted a broad internet censorship law aimed at, the Russian government said, stopping the spread of so-called fake news. Photo By Government of UAE / Wikimedia Commons Public Domain Strange Egg Casings Found on Oregon Coast - But Some Know What They Are Published 03/22/2019 at 3:53 PM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Seaside, Oregon) A run of "strange eggs" found along the Oregon coast has caught the eyes of beachgoers lately, with reports coming in from all over the shoreline. (All photos courtesy Seaside Aquarium / Tiffany Boothe). People are scratching their heads, but Seaside Aquarium and their public education specialist Tiffany Boothe know exactly what they are. She's been answering a lot of questions lately. We have heard reports of findings up and down the coast but with a large concentration on Gearhart beach, Boothe said. These strange gelatinous tubes are squid eggs. Squid form large schools and lay their eggs together on the bottom of the seafloor. Each female may lay up to 12 egg capsules and each egg capsule has between 180 and 300 eggs developing inside. As the eggs develop you can actually see the baby squid moving while still in the egg. When they hatch they are about the size of a grain of rice. Meanwhile, the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport has been showing off skate eggs in recent days. These creatures at Seaside Aquarium are called Opalescent squid (Loligo opalescens) and they can reach up to 11 inches in length. They are found from Mexico to northern British Columbia and come into shallow waters to spawn. During the spring and summer large schools of Opalescent Squid move into shallow coves and bays to mate, lay their eggs, and die, Boothe said. Each female lays about a dozen cigar-shaped egg capsules, each containing 180 to 300 eggs. After that, the egg sacs automatically attach to each other, forming huge clusters. It then takes about five weeks for them to hatch. Nature has a unique way of hiding these from predators: the capsules have no taste or odor. Over the last decade and beyond, Seaside Aquarium has been picking these up and the egg casings of skates with regularity, letting them hatch in tanks. At one point in 2007, Boothe proclaimed We have babies! after some locals picked up a few of the skate eggs on the beach and one egg clearly had living creatures inside. They counted four healthy embryos that time, but have had more in other instances. The year before they had six of them hatch in the tanks. Back then she told Oregon Coast Beach Connection: They probably have about six months before they are ready to leave their protective casing. Until then they cannot be on display. Their eyes are sensitive to light at this stage. These squid eggs are also expected to create a new brood. You'll likely see them on display at Seaside Aquarium later in spring. West winds bring stuff like this onshore. In fact, squid eggs and skate eggs are a very common find this time of year. Boothe said it is also possible to find whale burps, ocean burps and even glass floats. Whale burps is the nickname for rock-hard bundles of sea grass that have been compressed together. There are also ocean burps, a very loose term for bundles of sundry objects that get stuck together and tossed up by the tide, which often yield still living specimens like live egg casings from various species. Egg casings from skates are often referred to as Mermaid Purses (picture at bottom of article), Skate egg cases are frequently found by local beachcombers. Boothe said that although its appearance resembles seaweed, it is a very tough, protective casing which can contain anywhere from two to seven embryos per casing. Adult female skates will drop these on the ocean floor, where the casing will drift for nine to twelve months, Boothe said. During that time, the embryos feed upon a yolk sack that they are attached to. When the babies are developed enough to be self-sufficient, one end of the casing will open up and the baby skates - now 3.5 inches long will emerge. Lodging in Astoria/Seaside - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours Below: the egg casing for a skate, found by the aquarium in the past 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 Kim Westbrook Strach, executive director of the State Board of Elections, during the public evidentiary hearing on the 9th Congressional District voting irregularities investigation Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019, at the North Carolina State Bar in Raleigh. (News & Observer pool photo) The top official at the State Board of Elections wants tougher punishment for election crimes, suggesting special prosecutors should be appointed if district attorneys or federal authorities refuse to investigate wrongdoing.The board's Executive Director Kim Strach delivered what she called a menu of vital reforms to tackle election corruption Wednesday, March 13, to the House Elections and Ethics Law Committee. Legislation passed last year directed the board recommend methods to improve absentee voting security after widespread fraud was detected in the 2016 and 2018 election cycles.Strach said more money was needed to expand the elections board's investigative staff to combat election fraud better, and catch it earlier.Committee Co-Chairman Destin Hall, R-Caldwell, told Strach he regularly hears from constituents who don't think the elections board vigorously investigates election fraud.The elections board doesn't have criminal investigation powers, and can't force prosecutors to launch probes. Hans von Spakovsky, senior legal fellow at the Washington, D.C-based Heritage Foundation, has been a critic of local elections officials and law enforcement agencies' reluctance to investigate election crimes."We have certainly been frustrated ourselves at times," Strach said. Although the elections board made referrals in 2016 to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina, she said there was scant evidence it was investigating potential crimes.Strach suggested the General Assembly consider a law that allows a special prosecutor to be appointed and look into violations if existing authorities fail to do their job.Strach said, saying they would deter crimes. Currently only two absentee voting crimes are felonies. Most are misdemeanors.Strach said the U.S. Department of Justice Public Integrity Section is finally taking North Carolina corruption seriously. It opened an investigation and issued grand jury subpoenas involving the 2018 9th U.S. Congressional District election.Leslie McCrae Dowless, the alleged ringleader of an absentee by-mail ballot harvesting operation in Bladen and Robeson counties in 2016 and 2018, and four co-conspirators have been charged after a Wake County grand jury handed up indictments in a state investigation. A fifth co-conspirator was not indicted. The investigation continues.Dowless worked for the Rev. Mark Harris, a Republican who unofficially won election to the 9th U.S. Congressional District in November. He called for a new election during an elections board hearing after evidence and testimony demonstrated sufficient fraud to cast the integrity of the election into doubt. Harris denied knowledge of the wrongdoing, and cited ill health for bowing out of the new election.Among her recommendations, Strach said: Prepay postage on absentee ballot envelopes. Some voters don't want to pay postage, and some don't have the desire or the means to buy stamps. These voters are more willing to let a third party unlawfully collect their ballots, and could enable vote harvesting operations. Third parties shouldn't be allowed to make copies of absentee ballot request forms they collect from voters. That's the law for voter registration drives. Use a unique absentee ballot request form for every election. Third parties then couldn't have a voter sign a form and use photocopies of it in succeeding elections. This change could prevent fraud and stop ballots from being sent to voters who no longer lived at the address on file with election authorities. Third parties that collect absentee ballot request forms should be paid hourly, not per form gathered, because that encourages fraud. This was one of the methods Dowless' associates testified he used to amass absentee ballot request forms in sparsely populated counties. The restriction is in place for voter registration. The law must ensure timely third party submission of absentee ballot request forms or else voters risk losing their right to cast a ballot. Penalties should be imposed for violations. Clarify the law requiring a copy of photo identification for absentee voting. Photo ID should be required only when a voter or near relative submits the voter's ballot, and has control over their personal and private information. Anyone can submit an absentee ballot request form. Easy access to photo ID copies could lead to misuse, loss, or identity theft. Require county boards of elections to keep a log when absentee ballot forms are requested, and when absentee ballots are brought in. On Friday afternoon, at 5 PM EDT, the Justice Department confirmed that Special Counsel Robert Mueller had indeed turned in his long-awaited report on supposed Trump-Russia collusion. Attorney General William Barr then released a letter to the ranking members of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees informing them that he "may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend.": Trump Weighs In On Whether Public Should See Mueller ReportUnder Department of Justice regulations, Barr must review the Mueller report for release; Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein wrote a letter last year suggesting that no allegations concerning non-criminal activity would be released to the public. Late on Friday afternoon, multiple news outlets broke the story that Mueller had recommended no further indictments in his report.The Mueller report represents the conclusion of a nearly two-year-long inquiry under Mueller's auspices, begun when Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein appointed Mueller after President Trump fired FBI director James Comey.Democrats have been clamoring for a full release of the Mueller report, presuming that a redacted report will be far less damaging to President Trump than the full report. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer released a statement calling on Barr to "make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress," declaring that the "White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public."Many in the media continue to report, despite the lack of further indictments, that prosecutions that have already taken place somehow provide evidence of Trump-Russia collusion. This is flatly false. None of the indictments already pursued concern collusion between the Trump campaign and the Russian government that implicates Trump or any high-ranking campaign officials. With that said, it is possible that Mueller recommended no further indictments thanks to DOJ regulations that state a sitting president cannot be indicted. We won't know the full extent of that possibility until we learn the details of the report.Meanwhile, media members have already turned their eyes hopefully to the Southern District of New York, where the possibility of criminal indictment against President Trump on the basis of campaign finance violations remains.This story will be updated as the evening unfolds. BLACK REPUBLICAN BLOG - The Republican Party is the party of civil rights and the four Fs: faith, family, freedom and fairness. The Democratic Party is the party of the four Ss: slavery, secession, segregation and socialism (Quote By Author Michael Scheuer). This blog is looking for wisdom, to have and to share. It is also looking for other rare character traits like good humor, courage, and honor. It is not an easy road, because all of us fall short. But God is love, forgiveness and grace. Those who believe in Him and repent of their sins have the promise of His Holy Spirit to guide us and show us the Way. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has a long history of being reactionary assholes who support the worst kind of corporate Democrats while libelling progressives and selling out to America's greediest and most rapacious corporate lobbies, so the latest move isn't much of a surprise, but it's still pretty fucking terrible. The DCCC has announced that any vendor or consultant who works with a candidate mounting a primary challenge to an incumbent Democrat will be cut off from doing any business with the Democratic Party in 2020. As Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has pointed out, this is a policy aimed at neutralizing candidates like her, who challenge long-term incumbent Dems in safe seats who run as Democrats, but govern like Republicans see also, say, Dan Lipinski, who literally inherited his seat from his father and is anti-gun-control, anti-abortion-rights, pro-deregulation of dangerous industries, awash in corporate money, but still (technically) a "Democrat." I donated to Bernie Sanders' campaign in 2016 and his current campaign (I'm also an Elizabeth Warren donor; I also donated to Hillary after she won the 2016 primary) and some friends of mine have asked me why Sanders doesn't just join the Democratic party? To me, stuff like this makes staying out of the party itself a no-brainer. As I tell party fundraisers when they call me, I won't give a dime to the Democratic party for so long as they're doing shit like this instead, I'll support Brand New Congress and Our Revolution and individual, progressive Democratic candidates. But giving money to the DCCC so they can hand it over to the likes of Dan Lipinski? Fuck that. Sideways. With a brick. After their coordinated attack on Laura Moser in Texas's 7th District, she raised $86,000, got an endorsement from Our Revolution, and made it to a runoff. She eventually lost to current Rep. Lizzie Fletcher. But the episode gave fodder to progressive groups like the Working Families Party, Justice Democrats, and Collective PAC, which had formed for precisely that occasion the party's increasing inability to make space for new voices, many of them progressive. D-trip proved their point, and Our Revolution and WFP stepped in instead. And in Nebraska's 2nd District, the DCCC backed former Rep. Brad Ashford over Kara Eastman, who ended up winning the primary and losing the general election. Ashford was a former Republican who flip-flopped on access to abortion throughout his time in the state legislature and later as a Democrat in the U.S. House, and opposed single-payer health care. Eastman was a staunchly pro-choice progressive who supported Medicare for All. She was one of only two insurgents to beat DCCC-backed candidates last cycle. In the Democratic primary for Kentucky's 6th District, Amy McGrath beat Jim Gray and later lost to Republican Rep. Andy Barr. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is now recruiting her to run against Majority Leader Mitch McConnell in 2020. Strategists and congressional staffers with knowledge of the change say it will disproportionately impact vendors and candidates who are women and people of color, as the consultants who work with incumbents are the ones who've come up through the party at a time when its commitment to diversity was even dimmer than it is today. House Democratic Leadership Warns It Will Cut Off Any Firms That Challenge Incumbents [Akela Lacy/The Intercept] Bitcoin mining South Africa is a digital currency system which ventured the market over the past years. Most nations and regions of the world are changing their transaction systems and adopting cryptocurrency. With this new trend, African bitcoin exchange is thus holding a significant position in the exchange market. Cryptocurrency buying and transfer is not only widespread in the U.S and Europe but also in South Africa. Read on to know about how to buy bitcoin in South Africa, bitcoin price South Africa, and more related information. Image: pexels.com Source: UGC Most individuals are turning into cryptocurrency exchange and transactions in carrying out their investments. Others consider this service when they need to cater or pay for a variety of services across the world. Are you willing to get free bitcoin South Africa and wonder what to do or where to buy? One of the pros of the cryptocurrency business is that it uses a transaction system that keeps the identity of the concerned parties unknown to anyone. Further, the blockchain records assure you of the security of your coins within the crypto systems. READ ALSO: Kidnappers demand Bitcoin ransom worth R1.5 million for young Witbank boy With its increasing popularity, most companies do not encourage investment in cryptocurrency due to the related risks. If you are thinking of making good money, you need to have an in-depth insight into what a fnb bitcoin account is. In this regard, this article will give you an idea of the price of bitcoin in rand. The A-Z guide on how to buy bitcoin in South Africa Before you start thinking of investing in cryptocurrency, you need to understand how to venture into the cryptocurrency market and reap the full benefits. We have everything simplified to get you through the process of South African crypto exchange. In this guide, you get a step-wise solution on how to buy bitcoin South Africa. Image: pexels.com Source: UGC STEP 1: Choose a Bitcoin wallet Before entering the Bitcoin market, you need someone to hold your bitcoin access key. The coin key holders are what we call bitcoin wallet. Keys are essential in the signing of public transactions. There are varieties of wallets to choose from and they include: Hardware wallets- these wallets provide Bitcoin key storage in offline platforms. E.g. TREZOR Desktop wallets- these allow you to store your private key on your computer hard drive. You can download them. E.g. Exodus Mobile wallets- wallets like Jaxx will enable you to use your private key on mobile devices and smartphones. Web wallets- these are online platforms that offer storage and convenient access to your private key each time you need them. They include the blockchain and others. STEP 2: Choose a bitcoin exchange platform For you to buy bitcoins, you need to choose where to buy them from. We have three categories representing the 100+ platforms available and they include: Bitcoin brokers Brokers offer quality services in bitcoin trade and avail coins whereby you pay with fiat currency like USD or ZAR. Though, known to provide their services at a high charge, their services are user-friendly. Example of such a platform is the coin base. Peer-to-peer exchanges These are platforms which give you a chance to purchase and sell bitcoins directly. They eliminate the role of intermediaries in the system. Here, you agree with the buyer on the acceptable terms and modes of payment. Cryptocurrency trading platforms These platforms do not use fiat currency but use other forms of crypto to carry out transactions. For one to transact within such platforms like binance, you would require a cryptocurrency first. STEP 3: Buy bitcoin Having chosen a bitcoin exchange platform, the next thing to do is to submit an order through your preferred platform. Bitcoin brokers are most convenient for beginners. Despite the type of exchange platform one chooses, signing up for an account is crucial. In this process, you either enter your email and contacts information. The following steps depend on the type of platform one chooses. Upon registration and verification, select the number of bitcoins to purchase. Examine the transaction costs and finalize the process. So, now you know how to buy crypto coins South Africa 2019. READ ALSO: Bitcoin tycoon crashes his R5 Million Lamborghini into a ditch How to buy bitcoins on Luno in South Africa Just like any other site, to purchase cryptocurrency in Luno, it is necessary that you follow a few simple steps. Luno makes it easy for one to use and hold cryptocurrency for future transactions. Here is also a guide from Luno where you can find all the necessary information related to cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin, and Ethereum. When logged into the buy option, the system takes you to the buy/sell page where you can make comparisons in price and quantity of coins. Here you can see the price of bitcoin in rands. But do you know why crypto business is quickly growing? Here are some of the advantages of buying and selling of crypto coins. No third parties within the transaction Users are untraceable and anonymous Low fee You get covered from identity theft Fraud payment protection Immediate transfer Is bitcoin mining legal in South Africa? Image: pixabay.com Source: UGC READ ALSO: COPE wants AfriForum's Kallie Kriel to withdraw comments about Apartheid In most cases, people wonder whether bitcoin mining is a legal business in South Africa. Crypto coin mining is a good business for individuals new investment. If you are thinking crypto business, then know that crypto mining is legal in South Africa. There is no clear rule in South Africa which prohibits bitcoin trade. However, the government has strategies which support crypto-trade. Nevertheless, the processes of bitcoin trade in South Africa are subject to taxation. Where and how to buy bitcoins in South Africa 2019 Image: pixabay.com Source: UGC a. Luno b. Coinmama c. LocalBitcoins d. CoinCorner Now, you have the relevant information on how to buy bitcoins South Africa with our guide. If you were thinking of how to invest in bitcoin, you have the insight into the business and an understanding of the right steps to take. Bitcoin South Africa news can also keep you posted about the market trends. Therefore, there is no reason why you cannot venture into bitcoin exchange South Africa. READ ALSO: Lights, camera, action: Who took home the win at the annual SAFTAs It's official: Cyril Ramaphosa's son will soon be a married man Source: Brielfy.co.za Source: Briefly.co.za - T. S. Eliot Thoughts After Lambeth "The World is trying the experiment of attempting to form a civilized but non-Christian mentality. The experiment will fail; but we must be very patient in awaiting its collapse; meanwhile redeeming the time: so that the Faith may be preserved alive through the dark ages before us; to renew and rebuild civilization, and save the World from suicide." Businessmen teamwork brainstorming meeting. The Canadian federal election is scheduled to take place on or before October 21, 2019. The next election promises to be one of the most contentious in living memory. As usual, the economy will be a huge focus. Can investors expect shifts in policy that will provide a boost for the market in the next decade? In the spring of 2018, Royal Bank of Canada (TSX:RY)(NYSE:RY) CEO Dave McKay warned that there was significant investment outflow from Canada to the United States. The US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 slashed corporate taxes in the US by 14%. U.S. stocks experienced huge gains in 2017 in anticipation of the legislation. Companies reported record profits in 2018, especially financial institutions, but many of these gains were already priced in. McKay and other business leaders in Canada are pushing for a modernization of Canadas tax laws. Canada has remained competitive when it comes to corporate tax, but there is renewed focus on personal income taxes. According to the Fraser Institute, Canadian workers across the income spectrum pay significantly higher personal income tax than their U.S. counterparts. Some economists argue that high marginal tax rates discourage productive economic activity. There is much debate on just how much impact these rates have, but you can bet it is enough to be politicized. Success breeds imitation, and the Ontario Progressive Conservatives marched their way to a stunning majority on a campaign of opening Ontario up for business, while mixing in some populist rhetoric. Canadian banks are unlikely to enjoy the kind of windfall their U.S. counterparts experienced after the 2017 U.S. tax reform package. However, some type of tax reform is almost guaranteed to be on the platform for all opposition parties this year. Magna International (TSX:MG)(NYSE:MGA) CEO Don Walker was also vocal on the topic of Canadian tax rates in the spring of 2018. In May, Walker said that it had become costlier to do business in Ontario, especially in the wake of U.S. tax reform. Doug Fords PCs ran on a campaign of reducing Ontarios corporate tax, although only by 1% as the rate already stands at 11.5%. This change has yet to come down the pipe, however. Story continues Magna will lobby for a boost, but it has been an absolute powerhouse in the face of economic headwinds going by its recent earnings. In 2018, Magna reported record sales of $40.8 billion which was up 12% from 2017. It posted record cash from operations of $3.7 billion and record diluted earnings per share of $6.61, a 13% year-over-year increase. Shares of Magna have climbed 5.1% in 2019 as of late afternoon trading on March 21. The stock is still down 10.7% from the prior year. Magna and other auto giants are still waiting on the USMCA to be ratified by Congress, but the agreement alleviated some anxiety. Now the company will eagerly await a push to lower the cost of doing business in its home country. More reading Fool contributor Ambrose O'Callaghan has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Magna International is a recommendation of Stock Advisor Canada. 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 (Bloomberg) -- The chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies Co. appears to have had a penchant for products by Apple Inc., one of the Chinese giants biggest rivals. When Canadian police arrested Meng Wanzhou at the behest of the U.S. on a Dec. 1 stopover at Vancouver International Airport, they seized her iPhone 7 Plus, a MacBook Air and an iPad Pro, according to a court filing Friday. Her defense lawyers filed an application seeking a copy of the data stored on the equipment, and for those devices to be subsequently sealed. The crown prosecution consented and the devices will be transferred "to the British Columbia Supreme Court Registry pending an assessment of solicitor-client privilege," Canadas justice department said in an email. Huawei has been known to get touchy when lesser employees have used iPhones -- it demoted and cut the pay of two employees held responsible after the companys official New Years greetings went out "via Twitter for iPhone." Chinas biggest telecoms gear maker, which supplanted Apple as the worlds No. 2 smartphone brand in 2018, is gunning for the top spot. Of course, Meng was a globetrotter prior to being put under house arrest at her luxury Vancouver home, and Huawei products can be difficult to come by in some places -- like the U.S. American officials have claimed Meng, once a frequent U.S. visitor, had avoided the country since April 2017 after becoming aware of a criminal investigation into Huawei. Meng, when detained in Canada, was on her way to Mexico, Costa Rica, Argentina and France -- all countries where Huawei sells its devices. Meng was carrying one product made by Huawei, founded by her billionaire father Ren Zhengfei -- a Huawei Mate 20 RS smartphone featuring a Porsche design, according to a list of devices attached to the court order. She also had a ScanDisk flash drive and a couple of SIM cards. To contact the reporter on this story: Natalie Obiko Pearson in Vancouver at npearson7@bloomberg.net Story continues To contact the editors responsible for this story: David Scanlan at dscanlan@bloomberg.net, Steven Frank For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. On Friday, special counsel Robert Mueller delivered his report on an almost two-year investigation centered around Russias interference in the 2016 presidential election and the possible involvement in that effort by anyone related to the Trump campaign. As reported by The New York Times, Mueller submitted the official document to Attorney General William Barr today, a handoff that was confirmed by the Justice Department. Though no conclusions or findings from the report have come out publicly yet, Barr said in a letter to congressional leaders today that information could be released as soon as this weekend, though how much of itand whenhe shares is up to him. I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, he wrote in a letter to lawmakers on the House and Senate Judiciary committees. President Trump has yet to comment on todays release, though earlier this week he commented on the report (which he has called a witch hunt in the past), saying, Let people see it. . . . There was no collusion. There was no obstruction. There was no nothing. The administration as a whole seemed to cooperate with the report; two of the presidents lawyers, Rudolph Giuliani and Jay Sekulow, released a statement today saying, Were pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the attorney general pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps. Since being appointed in 2017, Mueller has focused all his time on this probe, which takes a look at Russias possible involvement with the outcome of the 2016 presidential election and whether any Trump associates conspired with Russian operatives to interfere in the election. No public evidence of such an involvement has been proven as of yet, and the report will be the first deeply researched findings that can either support or deny the claim. Still, the probe has already had a few eye-opening moments and findings: so far, 34 people and three companies have been criminally charged during the investigation, including Trumps former national security adviser Michael Flynn, former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, former political adviser Roger Stone, and former personal lawyer Michael Cohen, to name a few. While time will only tell the verdict, the Times reports that some aspects of the investigation may still continue on, even after the findings are released. For example, recent court documents suggest that an investigation around why Manafort turned over campaign polling data in 2016 to a Russian associate tied to Russian intelligence is still ongoing. BEIRUT (AP) U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday called on the Lebanese people to stand up to Hezbollah's "criminality, terror and threats," and claimed U.S. sanctions on Iran and its Lebanese Shiite ally were working and that more pressure on them was forthcoming. His comments in Beirut were in strong contrast to those of his host, Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil who minutes earlier, while standing next to Pompeo, insisted that Hezbollah is "a Lebanese group that is not a terrorist organization and was elected by the people." Pompeo, however, warned that "the Lebanese people face a choice: Bravely move forward or allow the dark ambitions of Iran and Hezbollah to dictate your future." He added that the U.S. would continue using "all peaceful means" to curb Hezbollah and Iran's influence. Pompeo highlighted U.S. concerns about Hezbollah's "destabilizing activities" in Lebanon and the region in talks his with Lebanese leaders, amid strong regional condemnation of President Donald Trump's declaration that it's time the U.S. recognized Israel's sovereignty over the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. The abrupt pronouncement on the Golan Heights clouded Pompeo's visit during which he met with top officials, including some who are aligned with the Iran- and Syria-allied militant Hezbollah. The visit is the last leg of a Mideast tour that took Pompeo to Kuwait and Israel, where he lauded warm ties with Israel, met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on at least three separate occasions and promised to step up pressure on Iran. From Israel, Pompeo's plane travelled through Cypriot airspace, as Lebanon, which is technically in a state of war with Israel, bans direct flights from Israel. Once on the ground, Pompeo was taken to the Interior Ministry for a brief meeting with Raya El-Hassan, who was named earlier this year as the Arab world's first female minister in charge of security. Story continues Pompeo also met with Lebanon's powerful Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, before heading for a working lunch with Prime Minister Saad Hariri followed by a meeting with President Michel Aoun. The State Department's deputy spokesman, Robert Palladino, said Pompeo highlighted in the meetings U.S. concerns about Hezbollah's "destabilizing activities in Lebanon and the region" as well as the need to maintain calm along the border between Lebanon and Israel. In his Lebanon visit, Pompeo had hoped to step up pressure on the Shiite Hezbollah group, but he faces resistance even from America's local allies, who fear that pushing too hard could trigger a backlash and endanger the tiny country's fragile peace. Hezbollah wields more power than ever in parliament and the government. Aoun's office said the president told Pompeo that the country's priority is to preserve national unity and peace adding that "Hezbollah is a Lebanese party that has a popular base representing one of the main (religious) sects in the country." Pompeo later met with Bassil, the foreign minister. He, as well as Aoun and Berri, are close Hezbollah allies, while Hariri is a close Western ally who has been reluctant to confront Hezbollah. "How does stockpiling tens of thousands of missiles in Lebanon territory for use against Israel make this country stronger?" asked Pompeo, referring to Hezbollah's arsenal that the group boasts can strike any part of Israel. "Hezbollah and its illegitimate militia put the entire country on the front lines of Iran's misguided proxy campaign," Pompeo added. He said that Washington would continue to use "all peaceful means possible" to pressure Hezbollah, an apparent reference to the sanctions that the U.S. has imposed over the years and are drying up the militant group's finances. Pompeo referred to comments made by Hezbollah's leader earlier this month in which he urged supporters to donate money to the group. Hezbollah's Al-Manar TV aired the comments made by Bassil live, but cut back to normal programming once Pompeo began reading his statement. President Aoun, speaking to Russian journalists ahead of a visit to Moscow later this month, said that the sanctions imposed on Hezbollah, Iran and Syria are negatively impacting the already fragile Lebanese economy. "The negative effect of the sanctions on Hezbollah is hitting all Lebanese people as well as Lebanese banks," he said in remarks released later on Friday. Earlier this week, Pompeo had said "we'll spend a lot of time talking with the Lebanese government about how we can help them disconnect from the threat that Iran and Hezbollah present." "Hezbollah is a terrorist organization. You ask how tough I am going to be? It is a terrorist organization. Period. Full stop," Pompeo said in Jerusalem on Thursday. Pompeo's visit to Lebanon came as the Trump administration hit Iran with new sanctions on Friday. The Treasury Department said the sanctions target 31 Iranian scientists, technicians and companies affiliated with Iran's Organization for Defense Innovation and Research, which had been at the forefront of the country's former nuclear weapons program. Officials said those targeted continue to work in Iran's defense sector and form a core of experts who could reconstitute that program. Fourteen people, including the head of the organization and 17 subsidiary operations are covered by the sanctions. The sanctions freeze any assets that those targeted may have in U.S. jurisdictions and bar Americans from any transactions with them. Trump's statement about the Golan Heights on Thursday is a major shift in American policy. For some time, the administration has been considering recognizing Israel's sovereignty over the strategic highlands, which Israel captured from Syria in 1967. In a tweet that appeared to catch many by surprise, Trump said the time had come for the United States to take the step. The U.S. will be the first country to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan, which the rest of the international community regards as territory occupied by Israel whose status should be determined by negotiations between Israel and Syria. Syria, Iran and Turkey on Friday strongly denounced Trump's statement. ___ Lee reported from Jerusalem. Picture this: In a few weeks, youre sitting on a beach in Bali or walking around the streets of Tokyo. Spring break is on the horizon, and with any travel plans comes an equally exciting chance to upgrade your wardrobe. It might be time to grab a brand-new swimsuit to sun in or a pair of comfy and cool sneakers to hike around an unknown city. Take note from Adwoa Aboah: The British model and activist spent last summer in Positano off of Italys Amalfi Coast and wore a pair of leopard-print bicycle shorts and an adorable straw hat with statement platforms. Or Paloma Elsesser, who traveled to Cartagena, Colombia, and opted for a vertical striped button-up with a black-and-gray printed swimsuit as she posed on a boat. Meanwhile, Jeanne Damas headed to Morocco, the perfect place for the Rouje founder to catch some rays in an adorable purple minidress and a pair of espadrilles. Wherever you decide to jet off to this spring, be sure to do it as these women do: with style and comfort in spades. A long-running legal battle over a mining project near William's Lake in B.C's southern Interior continues in court today. The Tsilhqot'in Nation is seeking an injunction from the B.C. Court of Appeal against a drilling permit issued to Taseko Mines Ltd. Taseko's proposed New Prosperity Mine, located 125 kilometres southwest of Williams Lake was approved for development by the provincial government in 2010 and issued a drilling permit in 2017 for the company to collect geotechnical information. The Tsilhqot'in Nation is trying to protect Fish Lake called Teztan Biny in Tsilhqot'in which they say will be harmed by the project. On March 1, the B.C. Court of Appeal issued a judgment recognizing the Teztan Biny area as an active cultural school for the Tsilhqot'in, a resting place for ancestors, a site for spiritual and ceremonial activities and "a place of unique and special significance for the Tsilhqot'in cultural identity and heritage." But the court gave permission for the project to move ahead despite that recognition. CBC An injunction could halt the project while the Tsilhqot'in applies to the Supreme Court of Canada for leave to appeal the March 1 judgement. The Federal Government has already rejected the project proposal twice in 2010 and 2014. Both times, the mine was rejected, in part, because of its impact on Tsilhqot'in rights and the risk it poses to fish and fish habitats. According to a statement from the Tsilhqot'in Nation, Teztan Biny is one of the province's most productive wild trout lakes. Taseko has been trying to build the project for decades. The company began proposing the project to the federal and provincial governments in 1995. With files from The Canadian Press Police are asking victims of a man charged with assault after allegedly spitting on several people in downtown Vancouver to come forward. Daniel Bielewcz, a 28-year-old Vancouver resident, has been charged with assault after allegedly spitting in the face of a 19-year-old woman in a wheelchair. The incident happened just after 9 a.m. on Sunday, March 17 on Granville Street near West Georgia Street. Police say video surveillance shows Bielewcz walking on the east sidewalk of Granville Street towards West Georgia Street after the first assault. He then appears to spit on the chest of an elderly man walking by. The surveillance footage then shows Bielewcz arriving at the southeast corner of Granville Street and West Georgia. At this intersection, he appears to spit on two women walking past him. "These random assaults are very concerning," says Vancouver Police spokesperson Jason Robillard in a statement. Police say only the woman in the wheelchair has come forward. They are asking the three additional victims to come forward. Anyone who maybe a victim is asked to call the Vancouver Police Department at 604-717-3321. About 200 volunteers in Toronto spent hours packing family emergency kits on Saturday for people affected by Cyclone Idai in southern Africa. GlobalMedic, a Canadian registered charity and a disaster response agency organized the local relief effort at its headquarters in Etobicoke. The volunteers assembled about 2,200 kits for people in Mozambique and Zimbabwe. "There's such critical needs in southeastern Africa. We can't sit around and watch children die," says Rahul Singh, executive director of GlobalMedic. "You watch these images of these kids drinking filthy water and you understand that they are going to get a disease that is a waterborne disease and they are going to die needlessly. A kit like this, a solution that is just so simple, will keep them alive." Lorenda Reddekopp/CBC Cyclone Idai made landfall in Mozambique on March 14. Then, as a tropical storm, it drenched Zimbabwe and Malawi. Heavy rains and high winds from the storm caused flooding, damaged infrastructure and flattened houses and crops. Many people are missing and children have been orphaned. According to Reuters, the combined death toll from all three countries is now more than 700. Singh said each kit contains: a point-of-use water purification solution, with enough water purifier to provide a family with 2,400 litres of clean drinking water; some hygiene items including soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste; and oral rehydration sachets. The kits will be flown, some with the help of Air Canada, to Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Singh said the charity has teams in those countries who will go door-to-door and camp-to-camp to distribute the kits. Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi/Associated Press The charity sent a six-person team to Zimbabwe on Saturday that is bringing three point-of-source water purification units and four drones. Singh said the drones, donated by FLIR Systems Inc. in Waterloo, Ont., will be used to survey infrastructure damage in Zimbabwe to help the country make the case for international funds. They will also support search and rescue efforts and can be used to make emergency maps. Story continues The volunteers in Etobicoke included people who have lived in Zimbabwe and Mozambique or who have family there. The volunteers bring down costs because the charity doesn't have to pay for assembly, he said. Herbert Nyathi, charge d'affaires for the Embassy of Zimbabwe in Ottawa, went to the event on Saturday. He said he was there to show support and appreciation for the relief efforts. His office has also issued visas for the team going to Zimbabwe. "Actually, over the past week, I have been working very closely with GlobalMedic to arrange the movement of the donation from Canada to Zimbabwe," he said. Lorenda Reddekopp/CBC He said there is a need for materials such as beds, clothes, food, medicine and tents. Nyathi said women and children in a region known as the Eastern Highlands were particularly hard hit by the disaster. "We are still trying to establish who is where and who is missing," he said. "The need is great. It has washed away roads, homes, schools, bridges and crops and it has also affected livestock. It was quite a devastating cyclone. "We are very grateful for Globalmedic for facilitating the mobilization of donations. It is quite humbling to realize that there are people here in Canada who are very concerned about the welfare of people in Zimbabwe, though they don't even know these people." Lorenda Reddekopp/CBC Kerry Grier, a Zimbabwe resident who has been living in Toronto for the past eight years, said volunteers wrote messages of hope on the boxes. "Families receive the messages when they receive the boxes," she said. "It's great that it's in the news now and we want to be there to continue when the cameras have gone away. The work really begins when it's no longer in the news." The Canadian government announced on Saturday that it will provide up to $3.5 million in emergency aid to humanitarian organizations helping people deal with the cyclone's impact. Chinese importers are unwilling to purchase Canadian canola seed at the moment, the group that represents the industry in Canada says. Earlier this month, Chinese customs authorities revoked the sales licence for a major Canadian canola distributor, Richardson International. Officials said the move was related to "dangerous pests" such as fungi in the crop, an allegation the company has strongly denied. Against the backdrop of escalating trade tensions with China, there is much speculation that pushing back against a major Canadian crop was an attempt to send a political message. China tore up a bilateral trade deal with Norway and restricted imports of salmon from that country after Norway awarded the Nobel Peace Prize to Chinese political prisoner Liu Xiaobo in 2010. "China always links its trade diplomacy with its foreign policy," said Meredith Lilly, the Simon Reisman Chair in International Affairs at Carleton University, and an associate professor on international trade. "They've made this claim before," she said, referring to the allegations Canadian canola is somehow unsafe, "because to not make one with a legal justification would be an outright admission that this is just about geopolitics." Regardless of China's true motivations, Richardson is no longer the only Canadian canola seller being shut out of the Chinese market. There are 18 members of the group that represents the industry in Canada, including Viterra Inc., Louis Dreyfus Company, Cargill Ltd. and Parrish & Heimbecker Ltd. All of them say their contracts to sell in China are just drying up. "While there was some initial optimism that Chinese concerns with canola trade could be resolved quickly, technical discussions to date have not indicated an immediate resolution is possible," said the Canola Council of Canada (CCC). "Canola seed exporters report that Chinese importers are unwilling to purchase Canadian canola seed at this time." Story continues Canola seeds can be crushed to produce an oil used in food and cooking. The "can" in Canola stands for Canada, since the specific variety of the plant known as rapeseed that has a bright yellow flower was invented by Canadian researchers in the 1970s. A spokesperson for the canola group says that to their knowledge, oil and meal are not subject to the same "challenges" that the seeds are having in China. CBC About 40 per cent of Canada's canola seed exports last year went to China, worth about $2.7 billion. Canada also sent about $1 billion worth of canola oil to China, and about $500 million worth of canola meal, which is the name for canola seeds after they have been crushed and separated from their oil, leaving a product that is used as animal food. Up until the recent disruption, Chinese demand for Canadian canola has been strong, the group says. "We urge the government of Canada to continue to intensify efforts to resolve the situation," CCC president Jim Everson said. Canada's Minister of Agriculture Marie-Claude Bibeau said China only recently agreed to have scientists assess the claim that they have found organisms in Canadian canola, after they claimed that about Richardson's. "Officials from both countries will continue to engage in order to find a science-based solution to this issue as quickly as possible," Bibeau told CBC News on Friday. "We are working closely with industry stakeholders on this matter, and we will continue to keep them informed as additional information becomes available." The sudden canola clash has sent prices for the crop plunging. For delivery in May, it has fallen almost $10 to $458 a tonne on Friday, only slightly ahead of the multi-year low of $455 it hit earlier this month. Lilly said Canadian government officials should do their utmost to solve the dispute, but ultimately she suspects they may not have enough tools at their disposal to make that happen quickly. "Canada does not have currently a great deal of levers to reverse this situation." Alberta Premier Rachel Notley weighed into the dispute on Friday, noting how important the industry is to the province she leads, and calling on the Federal Government to "work very hard" to resolve the issue. "If they are unsuccessful at doing that, then all Albertans will be looking to the federal government to supply relief to our canola industry just as they would to SNC-Lavalin, just as they would to GM, just as they would to any other industry in the country that is in jeopardy because of international actions outside of our border," Notley said. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe echoed concerns over the reports in a statement and said the provincial government remains hopeful that the federal government will continue to engage with Chinese officials on a technical level. "We have also requested that the federal government elevate their engagement to a diplomatic level to rectify this situation as soon as possible." Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called it an important issue on Friday when speaking with reporters. "So, we're going to roll up our sleeves and work with the Chinese officials to demonstrate that canola should continue to flow safely from Canada to China," he said, adding the government is optimist it'll be able to make headway this year. In honour of International Womens Day, we asked eight women to share the impact public image and perception has had on them. Tessa Virtue The women featured in the video include: Tessa Virtue A five-time Olympic medalist and world ice dancing champion, Virtue is a mentor for FitSpirit, a non-profit organization that promotes the benefits of sport to young girls. Greta Hodgkinson An American-born ballerina and principal dancer with the National Ballet of Canada. In 2017, Hodgkinson was appointed to the Order of Ontario for her achievements in dance. Kawennahere Devery Jacobs A Canadian Screen Awards nominated television and film actress and Indigenous Rights Activist. Jenny and Taylor Frankel A mother and daughter team and the co-founders of Nudestix, an internationally sold cosmetics brand that celebrates natural beauty. Kae Tran An artist and digital creator living with muscular dystrophy, working to advocate and raise awareness for diversity and inclusion for disabled persons. Lisa Campbell The CEO of Lifford Cannabis Solutions, a Canadian company that works to help emerging cannabis brands succeed in a newly legalized market. Najwa Zebian A Lebanese-Canadian author, speaker, poet and educator celebrating the release of her third book, Sparks of Phoenix. Samra Zafar An award-winning international speaker, Zafar has shared her story of surviving domestic abuse and escaping a forced marriage in her book, A Good Wife. Produced by Hilary Hagerman, Farah Syed, Elisabetta Bianchini and Elizabeth Di Filippo Shot and edited by Rosa Park and Kyle Crockard Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Check out Yahoo Canadas podcast, Make It Reign our hot takes on all things royals in a non-stuffy way on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts. A priest at Montreal's renowned Saint Joseph's Oratory was stabbed in the chest Friday while delivering morning mass, shocking parishioners and those watching a live stream of the service from home. The suspect was quickly wrestled to the floor by security guards after stabbing Father Claude Grou, rector of the oratory. The priest was taken away by ambulance with minor injuries to his upper body. "I saw this man coming quickly and taking his knife out and going straight for Pere Grou," recounted Adele Plamondon, who was just finishing the day's reading when the man rose from the pew. "It was obvious what his intentions were. So, I left screaming to alert the security." Afterward, she saw the man on the floor being restrained. The attack was captured on a live stream and television broadcast by the Catholic channel Salt + Light. Conrad Fournier/Radio-Canada She said she spoke to Grou before he was taken to hospital. He was slashed twice and was in shock but seemed to be OK otherwise, Plamondon said. She said the priest's wounds were superficial because the knife broke. GRAPHIC WARNING | The following video shows the attack taking place. Please exercise discretion: Philip Barrett, who was attending the mass along with about 60 people, said the priest was behind the altar, getting ready to proclaim the gospel, when a tall man stood up from one of the pews and started walking forward. "He walked past the barrier leading into the sanctuary near the altar, and everyone was just initially wondering what was going on, and some people were starting to react a little bit," he said. "And he walked directly behind the altar and seemed to strike the priest." Both Plamondon and Barrett described the attacker as a tall, slim man who didn't say anything. Both said they had not seen him at the church before. WATCH | Parishioner describes what she saw during morning mass at St. Joseph's Oratory: Priest transported to hospital by ambulance Story continues A spokesperson for the first responder agency Urgences-sante, Benoit Garneau, said Grou was conscious while being transported to hospital. The injury was to his chest, he said, but he could not say whether there was more than one stab wound. CBC A 911 call was made at 8:40 a.m., and the suspected attacker was already being held by security when police arrived, said Montreal police spokesperson Const. Caroline Chevrefils. The man, who is 26, was taken into custody and will be interviewed by investigators later today, she said. Police say he isn't expected to be charged until Saturday at the earliest. Oratory spokesperson Celine Barbeau said while she believes current security measures are sufficient, there will be a review in the wake of the attack. She said there are no plans to start searching visitors or install metal detectors, because it would go against their mission. 'I wish him a speedy recovery,' says mayor The Montreal archdiocese issued a tweet saying the priest's condition was stable and "all of our prayers are with him." "We are all shocked by this act of violence that has taken place in our city, in a space dedicated to peace," Christian Lepine, Archbishop of Montreal, said in a statement. "We know that places of worship of many religions are targets of acts of violence. We must continue to follow the path of peace and love, believing that good will overcome evil through prayer and good works." In a tweet, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sent his best wishes to the priest. "What a horrible attack at Saint Joseph's Oratory in Montreal this morning. Father Claude Grou, Canadians are thinking of you and wishing you a swift recovery." Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante says this type of attack has no place in the city. "I am relieved to learn that the life of Father Claude Grou, rector of the [Oratory], is out of danger and that his condition is stable," she tweeted. "On behalf of all Montrealers, I wish him speedy recovery." Architecturally, the oratory is the largest church in Canada. Its construction was complete in 1967 on Mount Royal and its dome, one of the largest in the world, can be seen from across Montreal. Perched on the mountaintop, the oratory was founded by Saint Brother Andre and is now a pilgrimage site. 1. U.S. acceptance of coexistence as the only alternative to atomic war. 2. U.S. willingness to capitulate in preference to engaging in atomic war. 3. Develop the illusion that total disarmament of the United States would be a demonstration of moral strength. 4. Permit free trade between all nations regardless of Communist affiliation and regardless of whether or not items could be used for war. 5. Extension of long-term loans to Russia and Soviet satellites. 6. Provide American aid to all nations regardless of Communist domination. 7. Grant recognition of Red China. Admission of Red China to the U.N. 8. Set up East and West Germany as separate states in spite of Khrushchev's promise in 1955 to settle the German question by free elections under supervision of the U.N. 9. Prolong the conferences to ban atomic tests because the United States has agreed to suspend tests as long as negotiations are in progress. 10. Allow all Soviet satellites individual representation in the U.N. 11. Promote the U.N. as the only hope for mankind. If its charter is rewritten, demand that it be set up as a one-world government with its own independent armed forces. (Some Communist leaders believe the world can be taken over as easily by the U.N. as by Moscow. Sometimes these two centers compete with each other as they are now doing in the Congo.) 12. Resist any attempt to outlaw the Communist Party. 13. Do away with all loyalty oaths. 14. Continue giving Russia access to the U.S. Patent Office. 15. Capture one or both of the political parties in the United States. 16. Use technical decisions of the courts to weaken basic American institutions by claiming their activities violate civil rights. 17. Get control of the schools. Use them as transmission belts for socialism and current Communist propaganda. Soften the curriculum. Get control of teachers' associations. Put the party line in textbooks. 18. Gain control of all student newspapers. 19. Use student riots to foment public protests against programs or organizations which are under Communist attack. 20. Infiltrate the press. Get control of book-review assignments, editorial writing, policymaking positions. 21. Gain control of key positions in radio, TV, and motion pictures. 22. Continue discrediting American culture by degrading all forms of artistic expression. An American Communist cell was told to "eliminate all good sculpture from parks and buildings, substitute shapeless, awkward and meaningless forms." 23. Control art critics and directors of art museums. "Our plan is to promote ugliness, repulsive, meaningless art." 24. Eliminate all laws governing obscenity by calling them "censorship" and a violation of free speech and free press. 25. Break down cultural standards of morality by promoting pornography and obscenity in books, magazines, motion pictures, radio, and TV. 26. Present homosexuality, degeneracy and promiscuity as "normal, natural, healthy." 27. Infiltrate the churches and replace revealed religion with "social" religion. Discredit the Bible and emphasize the need for intellectual maturity which does not need a "religious crutch." 28. Eliminate prayer or any phase of religious expression in the schools on the ground that it violates the principle of "separation of church and state." 29. Discredit the American Constitution by calling it inadequate, old-fashioned, out of step with modern needs, a hindrance to cooperation between nations on a worldwide basis. 30. Discredit the American Founding Fathers. Present them as selfish aristocrats who had no concern for the "common man." 31. Belittle all forms of American culture and discourage the teaching of American history on the ground that it was only a minor part of the "big picture." Give more emphasis to Russian history since the Communists took over. 32. Support any socialist movement to give centralized control over any part of the culture--education, social agencies, welfare programs, mental health clinics, etc. 33. Eliminate all laws or procedures which interfere with the operation of the Communist apparatus. 34. Eliminate the House Committee on Un-American Activities. 35. Discredit and eventually dismantle the FBI. 36. Infiltrate and gain control of more unions. 37. Infiltrate and gain control of big business. 38. Transfer some of the powers of arrest from the police to social agencies. Treat all behavioral problems as psychiatric disorders which no one but psychiatrists can understand. 39. Dominate the psychiatric profession and use mental health laws as a means of gaining coercive control over those who oppose Communist goals. 40. Discredit the family as an institution. Encourage promiscuity and easy divorce. 41. Emphasize the need to raise children away from the negative influence of parents. Attribute prejudices, mental blocks and retarding of children to suppressive influence of parents. 42. Create the impression that violence and insurrection are legitimate aspects of the American tradition; that students and special-interest groups should rise up and use united force to solve economic, political or social problems. 43. Overthrow all colonial governments before native populations are ready for self-government. 44. Internationalize the Panama Canal. 45. Repeal the Connally reservation so the United States cannot prevent the World Court from seizing jurisdiction over nations and individuals alike. " " Facebook users expressed outrage when learning their private data was used by Cambridge Analytica, the recently defunct British firm at the center of a major scandal involving the 2016 election, Donald Trump and private data. DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images When news broke in early March 2018 that Cambridge Analytica, a data mining firm, accessed private information of more than 87 million Facebook users without their permission, people were outraged. But as the story grew, it became apparent that the information may have been used in nefarious ways, and that's when lawmakers on two continents demanded answers. It's become even more clear, through investigative reporting and whistle blowers like Christopher Wylie, Cambridge Analytica improperly collected private data via Facebook and used it to help influence the 2016 election in favor of its client, Donald Trump. How could this happen? That's what the Stuff They Don't Want You To Know hosts Ben Bowlin, Noel Brown and Matt Frederick detail in the podcast, Cambridge Analytica and Facebook, and what it means for all of us. Advertisement First, it's important to start here: Cambridge Analytica specialized in collecting data on internet users and then created "psychographic" profiles to help influence their purchasing and voting decisions. However, the firm itself didn't actually mine the Facebook data. The firm only analyzed it to create the consumer profiles. The Facebook data in question was accessed by an app called ThisIsYourDigitalLife. It was created by a guy named Aleksandr Kogan, who worked at the department of psychology at Cambridge University and had a relationship with Cambridge Analytica via his company, Global Science Research. ThisIsYourDigitalLife was a personality test, and in order to take it, users had to agree to allow the app access to their data. But unbeknownst to those users, it also gave Kogan access to their friends' data, as well. So even though only about 270,000 people downloaded the app, Kogan gained access to 87 million profiles' worth of information. When Facebook became aware of the issue, it told Cambridge Analytica that the firm violated Facebook's policies about sharing data. Facebook demanded a formal certification that the firm deleted any wrongly-acquired user information, which Cambridge Analytica provided, though clearly seems not to have followed through on. More trouble awaited when Cambridge Analytica's then-CEO Alexander Nix was caught on camera boasting that the firm engaged in shady political tactics like blackmail, entrapment and bribery to help its clients win elections. In the fallout, Cambridge Analytica declared bankruptcy on May 2, 2018 and announced that it is closing its offices in both the U.S. and U.K. Some think the company may rebrand and continue similar consumer research endeavors under new names. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has also had to deal with the aftermath. He testified before Congress in April, and Facebook took out full-page ads in prominent newspapers to apologize for the company's role in the data leak. It's not apparent, still, that anything illegal occurred, though it certainly has caused legislators in the United States and the United Kingdom to take a closer look at internet privacy and usage protections. The scandal also caused many Facebook users to examine how much they're sharing about their personal lives, who can see that information and how it can be used. So now that Cambridge Analytica is shutting its doors, what's next? Has Facebook taken enough steps to address these problems on its platform? What does this mean for the future of our online lives? And just how much data are we unknowingly giving away every time we go online? Matt, Ben and Noel address all of these questions and more, but you have to listen to the to the entire podcast to hear their thoughts on how this could play out. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram Mexico City, March 22, 2019 Authorities must immediately investigate an attack on Mexican journalist Hiram Moreno and guarantee his safety, the Committee to Protect Journalists said today. Moreno, the editor of news website Evidencias, survived a shooting in Salina Cruz, a town in Oaxaca state, on March 20, according to news reports and an account that Moreno gave to reporters. An unidentified man shot Moreno in the back and the arm as the journalist left a convenience store at about 4 p.m., according to a report on his website. The attacker fled on a motorcycle and Moreno managed to call for help. He was rushed to a hospital, where he was treated for his injuries, according to the report. Aaron Mastache, the head of the Federal Mechanism for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders and Journalists, which operates under the auspices of the federal Interior Secretariat, told CPJ on March 20 that the journalist has been enrolled in a federal protection program since 2013. He declined to provide further details on the nature of the measures, citing privacy and safety concerns. The attack on Hiram Moreno while he was under protective measures underscores the urgent need for the Mexican federal government to ramp up its efforts to protect journalists in extreme risk, said CPJ Mexico Representative Jan-Albert Hootsen. Oaxaca state authorities must do everything in their power to bring the attacker to justice. The journalist gave an account of his attack to a local broadcaster after leaving the hospital. I went to buy water at an Oxxo store in the La Petrolera neighborhood. Suddenly, I saw a person on a motorcycle. He stepped down from the motorcycle and I saw that he lifted his shirt and grabbed a gun, Moreno said. I immediately knew that it wasnt a robbery. He didnt say anything, he just started shooting. As of March 22, CPJ had not been able to obtain contact information for Moreno. Moreno is the founder and editor of Evidencias, which covers general news, crime, security, and politics in Tehuantepec Isthmus, a region in the southeastern limits of Oaxaca state. Moreno also reports for the site. In a March 5 story, he reported on allegations that members of the State Investigation Agency tortured three teenagers detained in a State Attorney Generals Office building, one of whom later died. CPJ made several calls to a spokesperson for the state attorney generals office on March 20 and 21, which went unanswered. The office released a statement on March 20 condemning the attack and saying that it had opened an investigation. Oaxaca governor Alejandro Murat condemned the attack on Twitter that same day. Several calls from CPJ to the State Investigation Agency were not immediately answered. Mexico is the deadliest country for journalists in the western hemisphere, according to CPJ research. Last year, a least four were murdered there in direct retaliation for their work. The Central Government has banned the Yasin Malik-led Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) as an unlawful association under the provisions of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) is spearheading the separatist ideology in the Kashmir valley and has been at the forefront of the separatist activities and violence since 1988. It is also alleged that JKLF was involved in murders of Kashmiri Pandits in 1989 which led to their exodus from the valley. It is also said that JKLF is posing a security threat to the country and is posing threat to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of India. JKLF is also actively and continuously encouraging feelings of enmity and hatred against the lawfully established government as well as armed rebellion. The decision to ban JKLF was taken in accordance with the policy of zero tolerance against terrorism. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 UAPA is anti-terrorist law aimed at effective prevention of unlawful activities associations in India. UAPAs objective is to provide necessary powers to the investigating agencies to act against activities directed against the integrity and sovereignty of India. UAPA bans certain terrorist associations, penalises membership and association with such organizations and punishes terrorist activities. UAPA imposes reasonable restrictions on the exercise of freedom of speech and expression, to assemble peaceably without arms and to form associations in interests of sovereignty and integrity of India. Granit Xhaka has cast doubt on his long-term future with Arsenal after suggesting he wants to 'take the next step' in his career.The Switzerland international, currently away on international duty, has established himself with the Gunnersand has worn the captain's armband on a number of occasions.But speaking to Tagblatt, the defensive midfielder has revealed a burning desire to push on his career and appears to suggest that step will not be taken at Arsenal.'I'm very ambitious, I want to take the next step,' he said. 'Arsenal does not have to be the last stop.'It was only last year that Xhaka signed a new five-year contract extension to commit himself to the Gunners.The 26-year-old moved to the north London club from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016 for 35million.Arsenal are already preparing for the loss of fellow central midfielder Aaron Ramsey this summer when he leaves on a free transfer to join Juventus.Manager Unai Emery will have question marks over Xhaka's position following his latest comments and will no doubt be keen to address it when his players return from international duty.Xhaka and his Switzerland team-mates face Georgia in their opening Euro 2020 qualifying game on Saturday before they host Denmark on Tuesday night.Arsenal are pushing Manchester United and Chelsea for a place in the top four of the Premier League and see in the return of domestic action at home to Newcastle United on April 1. I am a retired newspaperman. I live in Poca, WV, with my wife of 44 years, Lou Ann. I grew up in Cleveland. Three kids. Grandfather. Report all errors to DonSurber@GMail.com It should be no surprise to anyone who's been paying attention that the Republicans are going to run against Democrats next year by asserting they're all "socialists" who want to turn the U.S. into Venezuela. I asked Alan Grayson about the problem that Democratic candidates will be facing as they endeavor to combat these pernicious tactics. He told me he sees it as "part of a conscious propaganda strategy in demonizing Democrats, formerly known as McCarthyism. One side of the coin is decrying real news as 'fake news,' and the other side of the coin is slinging fake metaphors as real metaphors. Republican shills have weaponized analogies, trying to play upon a cognitive bias called 'illusory correlation.' Similes arent always similar. Not everything is like everything else. Likes can be deceiving." The other, day Dave Weigel'scolumn mentioned that conservative Democrats want their constituents to know that they're not socialists . Blue Dog Max Rose has accrued a ProgressivePunch "F" since coming to Congress. Only 12 freshman Dems have worse voting records so far. And none of them want anyone to think they're socialists. No one will. These are all corporate Dems with natural affinities to Wall Street, not to working families. At Rose's first town hall a Republican lawyer accused the Democratic Party of becoming "a forum for anti-Semitism" and left-wing extremism, causing Rose to pivot into throwing Ilhan Omar under the bus: "I have to make a confession: Im not a socialist. Im not an anti-Semite. Im the person who you all elected, and there are members of the Democratic Party who have said things I vehemently oppose. I was the first member of the Democratic Party to come out and criticize someone who, I believed, had made an anti-Semitic comment." There was a brief and loud round of applause; Rose did not need to mention that he was talking about Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN). The congressman, who ran nine points ahead of Hillary Clinton to win the swingy 11th Congressional District, did so as a moderate [the Post and its writes purposefully term even the most conservative, right-wing Democrats "moderates'] with a military record who would not take orders from his party. Rose, who is Jewish, told the audience that he had joined Democrats in condemning "acts of hate, acts of divisiveness, no matter where they came from" but that he would criticize his peers when they deserved it. The Democratic Party is a big tent, isnt it? he asked, rhetorically. Theyve kept it interesting for me. It was a nice way to describe a problem that dozens of House Democrats are confronting every time they head home. Rose, one of the 41 Democrats who flipped Republican-held seats last year, is near the top of the GOPs list of 2020 targets. The presidents party has signaled that it will run against the Democrats left, represented less by its White House hopefuls than by stars like Omar and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). This week, the first real congressional recess of the year, is seeing the first test of that strategy, as new Democrats with strong local images get asked about those other Democrats-- the ones constantly on their TV screens. At this stage in any congressional cycle, the party committees like to dream big. The Republicans target list includes not just the 31 Democrats whose districts backed the president in 2016, but also Democrats whose districts voted for Mitt Romney in 2012. After watching dozens of competent Republicans fail to separate themselves from Trump, they are betting that vulnerable Democrats will not be able to distance themselves from the partys energized left. The essential epithet, borrowed from the president, is socialist-- a press memo from the National Republican Congressional Committee last week used the phrase socialist Democrats no less than 21 times. And Republicans have gotten unexpected air cover from former Starbucks chief executive Howard Schultz, who has roamed the country threatening to run a centrist campaign for president because of the "mainstreaming of socialism" inside the Democratic Party. The evidence from some of the new Democrats town hall meetings is that the message has broken through, with a caveat-- new members from swing districts are happy to separate themselves from the partys left. At a Sunday town hall meeting in Virginias 10th District, Rep. Jennifer Wexton, one of the Democrats who flipped a seat in 2018, got questions on anti-Semitism, why more Democrats did not applaud the president during his State of the Union address, why Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D) had not resigned over revelations that he wore blackface and had a picture of a Klansman outfit in his medical school yearbook, and even why she hung a transgender flag outside of her office instead of a flag raising awareness of American prisoners of war. I chose to hang the transgender flag because thats a community thats been under attack, Wexton said. The man who asked the question and had been recording her answer, packed up and left in a huff. The hot-button questions did not dominate Wextons town hall; the only obviously organized groups that attended represented the health-care and disability rights group Little Lobbyists and the gun-safety group Moms Demand Action, both of which she had supported in the past. The diverse and highly educated 10th District has trended strongly Democratic since it was drawn, and Wexton is not seen as one of the most vulnerable new Democrats. Even so, the Republican plan of attack against Wexton has been to blur any differences between her and the high-profile left-wing members who dominated the last month of news about the House. An NRCC digital ad running in the district asks if Wexton would impeach the president-- not because he is popular in Northern Virginia, but because Republicans see a chance to define the low-key congresswoman before she can define herself. I represent the interests of my constituents, Wexton said after the town hall. I know that we hear a lot in the press about certain other people in our class, but each of us has our own agenda and our own constituents that were out here representing. Rose, whose constituents have voted Republican in recent elections, is in a trickier spot. He was one of the first new Democrats to draw a credible Republican opponent-- Nicole Malliotakis, a member of the state assembly who lopsidedly lost a 2017 run for New York mayor but carried Staten Island. In an interview, Malliotakis repeatedly called Rose a Park Slope liberal who had won only because a nasty 2018 primary weakened the Republican incumbent. (Rose was raised in that part of Brooklyn, but when his 2018 opponent brought it up, the Democrat said he would have moved to Staten Island sooner, had he not been serving in Afghanistan.) Sure, he criticized Omar, said Malliotakis-- but he voted with her more often than not, and he didnt call for her to be bounced from the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Im running against Max and the entire crop of new progressives who have come into the Congress who are trying to move the country toward socialism, she said. I thought it was great when he denounced Ilhan Omar, but I was disappointed later that day when he called her a friend with whom he shares values. I think the people of this district deserve to know what values he's referring to. Over 90 minutes in a Staten Island church, Rose didnt distance himself from the Democratic Party. He excoriated the president for leaving the Paris climate accords; he pledged to protect the Affordable Care Act; he stood his ground against a constituent angry that he had opposed a Republican amendment to the Democrats omnibus voting rights bill, which would have prevented undocumented immigrants from voting in any election, federal or local. (They already are banned.) A lot of people are afraid to actually vote to drain the swamp, so they decided to play games, Rose said. But Rose also jumped at the chance to distance himself from the partys far left. He defended his vote for a different Republican amendment, to the Democrats popular background checks bill, which required gun sellers to notify ICE, the immigraiton enforcement agency, if undocumented immigrants tried to make a purchase, by saying that "if someone is buying a weapon who shouldnt be, authorities should be notified." That did not change his opposition to some of ICE's tactics, he said. And Rose-- like Wexton-- was dismissive toward the Green New Deal, a climate-change measure proposed by Ocasio-Cortez. Wexton called it an aspirational document that didnt have enough details for her; Rose, just miles from Ocasio-Cortezs district, said that he wanted to transition responsibly to a carbon-free economy" and that the major left-wing project of 2019 did not work for him. The Green New Deal in so many ways takes a socialist economic agenda, and puts it under the veil of environmentalism, he said. Thats not who I am. Thats never who I was. Thats why Im not a signatory to the Green New Deal-- but, give me a plan to tackle climate change, and Ill be the first one to sign on. The DCCC raised $11.6 million last month, more than they ever raised in any February-- even more than in any presidential election year! Tragically, online donors gave nearly $3 million, at an average contribution of $18 in February. Most of these donors have no idea they're feeding their money into the ravenous, bloody maw of Moloch. National Journal--The Intercept-- Only the fear of a primary challenge can keep them on their toes. Swalwell primaried Stark and Beto primaried Reyes and, as they always do, the DC Democratic establishment freaked out and tried to destroy both challengers. That's what they do; that's what they always do. Because they're fuckers. [This blog started in 2004 and I don't recall having ever used that word before, except once to note that Tom DeLay was, in his day, a notorious pig-fucker-- although I would point out that a "fucker" and a "pig-fucker" are two entirely different descriptions.] I also how furiously the leadership fought to defend corrupt insiders like Al Wynn and Tim Holden when Donna Edwards and Matt Cartwright primaried them. This is standard Democratic House leadership modus operandi. Two stories came out yesterday that we must get into: Ally Mutnick's for-- House Democrats Move to Hobble Primary Challengers -- and Akela Lacy's for-- House Democratic Leadership Warns It Will Cut Off Any Firms Who Challenge Incumbents . But let me take you on a little tangent first. Eric Swalwell probably won't become president in 2020 but he's been edging closer to running. Beto, on the other hand, has a much better chance to become president. But if it had been up to Nancy Pelosi, both of these guys would have had their political careers smothered in their cribs-- or these two, as babies, fed right into Moloch's jaws. Both committed a sin Nancy Pelosi just does not countenance-- running a primary campaign against one of her allies. Pete Stark and Silvestre Reyes both represented deep blue, very safe districts, respectively with PVIs of D+20 and D+17. Incumbents in districts like these can go decades without every feeling any kind of accountability because of political vulnerability from a Republican.the fear of a primary challenge can keep them on their toes. Swalwell primaried Stark and Beto primaried Reyes and, as they always do, the DC Democratic establishment freaked out and tried to destroy both challengers. That's what they do; that's what they always do. Because they're fuckers. [This blog started in 2004 and I don't recall having ever used that word before, except once to note that Tom DeLay was, in his day, a notorious pig-fucker-- although I would point out that a "fucker" and a "pig-fucker" are two entirely different descriptions.] I also how furiously the leadership fought to defend corrupt insiders like Al Wynn and Tim Holden when Donna Edwards and Matt Cartwright primaried them. This is standard Democratic House leadership modus operandi. In the wake of spectacular victories by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ayanna Pressley against powerful, entrenched incumbents, some of today's unaccountable insiders are in serious threat of primaries, including top Pelosi lieutenants like Richard Neal (D-MA) , the corrupt chairman of the immensely powerful House Ways and Means Committee. OK, tangent over. Let's get right into Mutnick's report that the DCCC "rolled out new hiring standards to deter firms from working with candidates who run against incumbents... [in] an an early move to deter primary challenges against sitting incumbents in the caucus with a new policy aimed in part at protecting the new majority." How about the old policy of protecting their own asses? The campaign arm on Friday sent out a list of hiring standards to more than 100 political firms, including one provision that made clear it will neither contract with nor recommend to House candidates any political vendors that work to oust sitting members of Congress. That offers key protection to the caucuss moderate members in battleground seats, where House control will be won or lost. It is intended to help stymie attempts by insurgent progressive groups who plan to primary incumbents deemed insufficiently liberal on key issues, but also to shield members of the party's ascendant liberal wing who represent safe Democratic territory and could face intraparty challenges of their own. "The core mission of the DCCC is electing House Democrats, which includes supporting and protecting incumbents, the committee wrote in a memo. The new protocol, intentionally debuted early in the off-year before most campaign hiring begins, presents a stark financial deterrent to the countrys top firms that provide essential services ranging from polling to TV advertising to strategy. It could cripple would-be primary opponents ability to entice top talent to join their staff. The DCCC independent-expenditure arm doles out millions in contracts to consultants and drives more revenue toward them by connecting campaigns with vetted operatives. The DCCC is often times the gatekeeper for consultants to get to candidates, said Ian Russell, a campaign media strategist and former top official at the committee. Unless you have a steady stream of income coming from another source, it would be very difficult to navigate the House world if you were shut out by the DCCC. ...The change is likely to spark backlash from the constellation of liberal groups that are plotting against incumbents. Their central argument is that primary challenges are healthy for the party and bring in crucial perspectives, particularly from young women of color. "The DCCC can do anything it wants to try to prevent the next generation of Democrats from taking power. They will not succeed," said Sean McElwee, co-founder of Data for Progress, which is helping recruit primary challengers. He said his group would help those opponents find firms with which to work: "There are plenty." Alexandria and Goliath by Nancy Ohanian The midterms demonstrated not all campaigns needed large-scale operations to be successful. Now-Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ousted then-House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley on a relatively bare bones campaign budget in a low-turnout David-and-Goliath race. ...In practice, some prominent Democratic firms already have an internal policy not to work against incumbents, consultants said. But other political outfits haven't shied away from it. They could not do so again without penalty. Democratic Rep. Michael Capuano of Massachusetts lost a primary bid for his eleventh term to Ayanna Pressley, who hired both AKPD Message & Media, which was founded by consultants that worked for Obama's two campaigns, and Anzalone Liszt Grove, a top-tier Democratic polling outfit. And in suburban Chicago, Rep. Dan Lipinski, a Democrat who opposes abortion rights, nearly lost to Marie Newman, a progressive challenger who worked with Mothership Strategies, a firm also used by DCCC Chairwoman Cheri Bustos. Cheri and Rahm (not photo-shopped) The standards are largely preemptive and will not retroactively apply to firms that worked with primary challengers in past cycles. Newman is exploring a 2020 rematch, and received help from abortion rights groups such as NARAL Pro-Choice America. Individual firms that work for an outside group on a campaign against an incumbent would not be penalized, a DCCC official said. Both Newman and Pressley challenged members in safe Democratic districts that would not threaten their party's majority. So far, liberal groups, such as the Justice Democrats and Data for Progress, have largely trained their efforts on incumbents in Democratic territory, like Cuellar and Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts. This policy could stifle similar attempts in competitive districts, though it may not deter those who are already prepared to wage underdog campaigns. At least one swing-seat Democrat will face such a primary opponent. Eva Putzova, a former Flagstaff city councilwoman who waged a successful effort there to raise the minimum wage, plans to run to the left of Rep. Tom OHalleran, a Republican-turned-Democrat who holds a sprawling rural Arizona district that Trump carried in 2016. Putzova is in talks with progressive organizations, including Democracy for America and Brand New Congress, and said shes not concerned that establishment groups sometimes ignore her attempts to reach out. Putzova said she's hired a Phoenix-based firm to help with fundraising. Im choosing partners who we are on the same page with politically, Putzova said in an interview this week. We dont have to rely on the Democratic Party usuals. Akela Lacy also noted in her Intercept piece that "Its no secret that the DCCC and national party leaders often interfere on behalf of preferred candidates... The DCCC is known for prioritizing candidates and direct them to its own consultants, most of whom are alumni of the DCCC, which is known in Washington as a 'consultant factory.'" It's part of DC's thoroughly corrupt revolving door which somehow didn't get addressed in Pelosi's much-vaunted and doomed HR-1 hullabaloo. D-trips claims its top priority is protecting the majority, and that in order to do so, they must keep internal discord at a minimum. But as progressive candidates, organizers, and members build grassroots campaigns and prove they can hold their own, the D-trips old playbook is having the opposite effect. The strategy isnt new. Though it did bring a few more hiccups in 2018 than expected, which makes the rollout all the more puzzling. There was never an enforcement that Ive ever seen, the strategist told The Intercept. This is the first time that they are ever making it open policy. After their coordinated attack on Laura Moser in Texass 7th District, she raised $86,000, got an endorsement from Our Revolution, and made it to a runoff. She eventually lost to current Rep. Lizzie Fletcher. But the episode gave fodder to progressive groups like the Working Families Party, Justice Democrats, and Collective PAC, which had formed for precisely that occasion-- the partys increasing inability to make space for new voices, many of them progressive. D-trip proved their point, and Our Revolution and WFP stepped in instead. And in Nebraskas 2nd District, the DCCC backed former Rep. Brad Ashford over Kara Eastman, who ended up winning the primary and losing the general election. Ashford was a former Republican who flip-flopped on access to abortion throughout his time in the state legislature and later as a Democrat in the U.S. House, and opposed single-payer healthcare. Eastman was a staunchly pro-choice progressive who supported Medicare for All. She was one of only two insurgents to beat DCCC-backed candidates last cycle. In the Democratic primary for Kentuckys 6th District, Amy McGrath beat Jim Gray, and later lost to Republican Rep. Andy Barr. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is now recruiting her to run against Majority Leader Mitch McConnell in 2020. Strategists and congressional staffers with knowledge of the change say it will disproportionately impact vendors and candidates who are women and people of color, as the consultants who work with incumbents are the ones whove come up through the party at a time when its commitment to diversity was even dimmer than it is today. The committee is telling firms they cant oppose sitting members, the strategist said. Id rather keep the majority too, which is why to me this is kind of stupid to have a blanket rule. Because, if its a safe incumbent seat, why does it matter? The DCCCs move also creates a new niche business, paradoxically, opening the door for consultants who dont want to be under the thumb of the party. From here on out lets refer to the DCCC for what it is, the White Male Centrist Campaign Protection Committee (WMCCPC), said Sean McElwee of Data for Progress. My e-mail is seanadrianmc@gmail.com. Any challenger looking for firms to work with them can feel free to reach out. There are plenty. Rebecca Katz, a longtime Democratic consultant, also said shed be happy to work with the challengers. The people who cant understand the Party is stronger because we have Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ayanna Pressley in Congress should not be in the business of choosing who can run for Congress, she said. Alex Rojas, the head of Justice Democrats, the bane of the DCCC, is backing a primary challenge to incumbent Henry Cuellar in Texas, while looking for other candidates across the country. Make no mistake-- they are sending a signal that they are more afraid of Ayanna Pressley and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez winning primary challenges than Henry Cuellar who votes with Trump nearly 70 percent of the time, she said. For both parties, campaigns are a big business, and it has created an ecosystem that feeds those within it, and starves those outside of it. The Democratic and Republican parties are commercial enterprises and theyre very much interested in their own survival, Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA) previously told The Intercept. The money race is probably more important to them than the issues race in some cases. The main beneficiaries are the consultants in the good graces of party leadership. Its a commercial enterprise, said Lynch. This is the kind of pernicious garbage the DCCC is seeking to protect from accountability My biggest worry is that the DCCC will feel a sense of empowerment when they get away with this and then start systematically applying it against progressives running in primaries where the DCCC is trying to put a conservative in place to face the Republican. Not that that doesn't already happen. One progressive Democrat who ran for Congress recently, but he chose to remain anonymous in this instance told me that when he "made a job offer to a well-liked organizer from the district, word got out. Within 6 hours he was getting job offers from incumbent Representatives, and threats that he would never work again if he supported my campaign. (He took the job anyway.) The sad truth is that DCCC operatives and incumbents don't support Democratic primaries. They will seek to load the dice every time. On the bright side, they've been doing this all along. So I guess there's something to be said for transparency?" One former U.S. Senate candidate-- also on condition of anonymity-- told me that "its very true. I had several vendors, including two former vendors of our own, tell me that they wouldnt work with my Senate campaign because I was going against a party pick, and they expected repercussions if they did. In fact, our former direct mail vendor wouldnt even give us our own lists. And I had one quit in mid-campaign after receiving a phone call about it. They [the DCCC] also used a carrot, offering party work to one vendor if he dropped me." By the way, this might be a good time to ask you to visit the Blue America Primary A Blue Dog page; just click on the ActBlue thermometer on the right. The PCCC is one of the independent progressive groups furious over the DCCC's new rule and quoted Frank Luntz in an e-mail to their members: "This policy wouldve blacklisted anyone who worked on Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs primary campaign last year." They continued, explaining that "Dems in blue districts who oppose Medicare For All. Right now, some old-timer House Democrat committee chairs in deep blue districts are blocking action on Medicare For All. This past week, the PCCC publicly said we would support primaries to them if their obstruction continues. (Remember the name Richie Neal from Massachusetts.) To move issues we care about in Congress, primaries matter. In 2018, bold progressive Marie Newman ran against Dem Congressman Dan Lapinski in a blue Illinois district Hillary Clinton won by 15%. Lipinski serves as co-chair of the Pro-Life Caucus, voted against Obamacare, and is a corporate conservative Blue Dog Democrat. Marie came 1% away from winning the primary, she's running to finish the job, and the DCCC is trying to block consultants who want to help put a real Democrat in this seat." Adriel Hampton, a prominent California political strategist and advertising consultant, told me that "In 2016, San Francisco progressives were evaluating a strong 2018 challenge to then-Leader Nancy Pelosi. However, simply finding a polling vendor was impossible-- not insurgent professionals, not even national robo-pollers. They said they would lose DCCC business. Three first-time Democratic candidates went on to challenge Pelosi, splitting the left and allowing a Republican to squeak into the top-two primary (a first-time independent candidate faced Pelosi in the 2016 General Election). So this isn't news to Californians, and yes, incumbent protection works and stifles the debate. It is especially galling in a top-two state like California where two Democrats can and do appear on the general election ballot together-- it is how Reps. Swalwell and Khanna won their seats. A prominent progressive congresswoman pointed out that "Whats missing is any sense that the best vendors should get the work. As far as I know, the DCCC never does any post-mortem to determine which vendors were effective and which were not. Instead, they just keep the door spinning at the DCCC revolving door. I used one of their vendors once, to make an ad that required a technique our own media person didnt know how to do. The [expletive deleted] clearly was loyal to the DCCC, not me. When the ad was finished and I made suggestions on improving his TV buy given what we knew from our polling, he complained to the DCCC about me." It's a refrain we've heard here at DWT over and over for years. Another candidate who decided to stay anonymous, is running against a well-entrenched Democratic screwball who he's likely to beat. "The DCCCs mission," he said, "should be flipping red seats to blue seats. Going up against an incumbent is never easy which is why the DCCC should leave those campaigns up to the grassroots efforts of the congressional districts, especially in safe blue seats. Again, the focus should be on putting Democrats in Congress and sending Republicans packing, not meddling in primaries." Tom Wakely, a long-time progressive Texas activist, who ran for Congress and for governor without the backing of the party establishment, is no fan of the DCCC. "When you have someone like Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar here in Texas who votes more often with Republicans than Democrats he is a legitimate target for a primary challenge," he told us this morning. "I believe the DCCC is out-of-touch with what is going on in red states like Texas. If they had, as we would say down here in the Lone Star state, the cojones to do something, they would back progressive primary challenges against conservative Democrats all across the South and Southwest rather than punishing those who believe the time for meaningful change is long past due." UPDATE: OK City Tom Guild's supporters are urging him to challenge Blue Dog freshman Kendra Horn-- one of the worst Dems in the House-- to a primary this year. I asked him what he thought of Bustos' "new" party rules. "The DCCC is trying to play God in intraparty affairs," he answered. "The party shouldnt be a dictatorship, but a democratic institution. To blackball consultants or consulting firms that assist congressional house candidates running against incumbents is just wrong on so many levels. Im not high on consultants to begin with, but they should be able to work for candidates of their choice without being punished by a formal arm of the Democratic Party. Not all incumbents are good. Not all incumbents vote like they should. Not all incumbents embrace the party platform. Not all incumbents should be protected. Not all consultants hired by non-incumbent candidates should be punished. This is Trumpism at its worst. Hes the one systematically trying to destroy basic American institutions. The DCCC cant fight Trump on the one hand and put forth Trump-like authoritarian and unfair edicts on the other hand. What the DCCC is doing will weaken the party, reduce their contributions, and leave progressives and other Democrats outside the tent pissing in, instead of inside the tent pissing out. When will they ever learn?" Founded in April 2018, FastGo Vietnam JSC was launched its service after Ubers exit from Southeast Asia last June. Photo by Reuters Vietnamese ride-hailing firm FastGo is set to launch Singapore operations in April as part of its regional expansion plans. The nine-month old Vietnamese start-up has announced that drivers will be able to register on its ride hailing application from April 1, and customers can use the service from April 30. Diep Nguyen, country manager for FastGo Singapore, said the companys fleet size will be at least 3,000 cars. Singapore is the third country in which FastGo will operate, after Vietnam and Myanmar. The firm is expected to face fierce competition from market incumbents including Singapores Grab, Indonesias Go-Jek, as well as local startups Ryde and TADA. FastGo, which is part of Vietnamese technology startup NextTech Group, has plans to launch in five other countries in the region, including Indonesia and the Philippines, by the end of 2019. While FastGo has not yet publicised fares, but the ride-hailing app will not charge peak period surcharges, and customers can tip drivers. FastGo aims to undercut competitors like Grab and Go-Jek, who collect 20 percent of ride fares from drivers, by charging them a fixed daily subscription fee of $5 if a drivers income exceeds $30 a day. However, Singaporean newspaper Today Online has quoted economist Walter Theseira, an associate professor at the Singapore University of Social Sciences, as saying "another small entrant" will not make a difference to the local ride-hailing market, unless the new player is financially backed by a strong sponsor or a well-known Singaporean firm. "Other than GoJek and Grab, the other (existing) players have very small market share and have difficulty making much impact locally. The market is easy to enter but its very hard to get a substantial market share," he said. Founded in April 2018, FastGo Vietnam JSC launched its service after Ubers exit from Southeast Asia last June. With almost 60,000 drivers onboard, the company claims to be the second most popular ride-hailing firm in Vietnam, following Grab. After receiving an undisclosed sum in a Series A investment from venture capital platform VinaCapital Ventures in August last year, FastGo is aiming to raise another $50 million in its Series B investment round over the next few months. According to the companys statements, FastGo will diversify its services to include food delivery and financial services. Under the country's gas industry development plan by 2025, with vision to 2035, Vietnam plans to have six LNG terminals. Photo by Shutterstock The first quarter saw a flurry of interest among foreign investors in LNG-fired power projects in Vietnam. Thailands Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited (Gulf), at a meeting in early March with Ninh Thuan authorities, expressed interest in building a $7.8-billion liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fired power complex in Ca Na, a coastal commune in the central province of Ninh Thuan. It will have four LNG-fired power plants with a combined capacity of 6,000 MW to be built in build-operate-transfer (BOT) or other modes. An LNG regasification terminal will be another key component of the complex. Ninh Thuan recently sent to the Ministry of Industry and Trade a proposal to add the Ca Na power complex to its development plans for appraisal. The proposal will be submitted to competent authorities for approval later. Pham Van Hau, the provinces Vice Chairman, said once the proposal is approved Ninh Thuan would release the criteria for choosing investors, with Thailands Gulf Energy being one of the candidates. In addition to Ca Na, Gulf is also eyeing a 5,000 MW gas power complex in the southern province of Dong Nai and said it is ready to supply gas-fired power technologies to companies in Vietnam. The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) last year reportedly surveyed Ca Na for a 40-hectare site to build an over 3,000 MW gas-fired power plant. Vietnam is struggling to develop its energy sector since many coal-fired power projects have been behind the schedule, its hydropower potential is almost fully exploited and oil and gas reserves are running low. In that context LNG-fired power plants will play a critical role in the country's energy mix in the future, experts say. Last week, a working group from the German Development Bank (KfW) led by Michael Brandes, vice president for Power & Renewable projects in Asia Pacific met with PetroVietnam Power Corporation (PV Power) executives in Hanoi. As PV Power reported in its website, at the meeting Nguyen Duy Giang, deputy general director of PV Power, highlighted his firms upcoming projects, especially Nhon Trach 3 and 4 gas-fired power projects. Brandes sought information about PV Powers projects and how the Vietnamese firm plans to raise capital for them. Also last week, Giang met with representatives from Japans Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Japans energy developer JERA Co. The Japanese guests said they are eager to partner with PV Power in implementing its upcoming projects, including Nhon Trach 3 and 4 power plants. Earlier, PV Power and PV Gas, both subsidiaries of the state-run PetroVietnam, signed a deal on PV Gas supplying LNG for Nhon Trach 3 and 4 plants. The projects, with a combined capacity of about 1,500 MW, will be the first in Vietnam's chain of upcoming LNG-fired power plants. These projects and Thi Vai LNG re-gasification terminal project in the southern province of Ba Ria - Vung Tau are pioneering projects that are set to play a very significant role in the development of PetroVietnam and the countrys oil and gas industry at large. In January Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc spoke about the necessity for a $4 billion LNG-fired power project in the southern province of Bac Lieu at a meeting with provincial officials. Bac Lieu was seeking the addition of some renewable energy projects and the LNG power plant to the revised national Power Development Plan VII. Earlier it had asked to have an LNG-fired plant with a designed capacity of 3,200 MW developed at a total cost of $4.3 billion. The provincial authorities and the US-backed joint venture Energy Capital Vietnam last year signed a memorandum of understanding on developing the project. PM Phuc underlined the project's significant addition to the national power plan, and instructed the Ministry of Industry and Trade together with other relevant agencies to review and make a final decision on this project. Bac Lieu and related ministries and agencies have also been instructed to meet with investors to assess the project and spell out investment conditions so that the construction could begin soon. The revised national Power Development Plan VII envisages total power generation to reach around 129,500 MW by 2030. Of this 19,000 MW will come from gas-fired power plants, including LNG. Under the country's gas industry development plan by 2025, with vision to 2035, Vietnam plans to have six LNG terminals at a total cost of more than $6 billion. The World Bank has estimated Vietnams electricity demand to grow by around 8 percent a year for the next decade, and said it would need to invest $150 billion by 2030 to develop its energy sector. The exhibition is an activity to celebrate the 44th anniversary of Reunification Day. Photo by VnExpress/Dang Le An ongoing exhibition in Saigon revisits specific aspects of the Vietnam War and narrates some emotion-laden stories. The exhibition, Tim Lai Ky Uc (Finding Memories), features 250 photos, documents and artifacts. The event, co-organized by the museum and management board of Hoa Lo Prison Historical Relic in Hanoi, opened Thursday at War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. The exhibits focus on four themes: Encountering B52, Hanoi Hilton (a nickname given to the Hoa Lo prison in the past), Coming Back Home and Building the Future. Some of the images at an ongoing HCMC exhibition at the War Remnants Museum reflect the life of American pilots imprisoned at the Hoa Lo prison in Hanoi. Photo by VnExpress/Dang Le The first theme deals with the fierce battles that took place in Hanoi and northern Hai Phong City as citizens and soldiers retaliated against swarms of U.S armys B-52 aircraft dropping bombs in December 1972, also known as the Christmas Bombing. They also reflect the life of American pilots who were imprisoned at the Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi, which was nicknamed Hanoi Hilton Hotel, as well as efforts to overcome the consequences of war. In 1973, after the Paris accord was signed to end the war, the Vietnamese and U.S. governments began releasing their prisoners of war. The "Coming Back Home" section of this exhibition depicts happy, emotional family reunions. Photographs, posters and documents related to the U.S. bombing of Vietnam are on show at the Finding Memories exhibition. Photo by VnExpress/Dang Le Some of the touching post-war stories have to do with those who supervised American pilots at the Hoa Lo prison in Hanoi. The exhibition is an activity to celebrate the 44th anniversary of Reunification Day, and the 46th year of the last day of returning American prisoners of war in Hanoi, which happened in March 1973. On this occasion, the management board of Hoa Lo Prison Museum have also released a photo book with the exhibited images, documents and authentic stories. The exhibition will remain open at the War Remnants Museum on Vo Van Tan Street, Ho Chi Minh City until May. The specific closing date has not been decided. Rescue workers search for victims following a crash involving a passenger van and a trailer truck Saturday in Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand. Photo courtesy of Facebook 123 Khondee Mee Namjai. At least eight foreign workers, including five Vietnamese, died after a passenger van plunged into a canal in Thailand Saturday. Around 12.20 p.m, the 16-seater passenger van carrying 14 foreign migrant workers was hit by a 10-wheel trailer truck at the Srasetthi intersection in Tha Muang District, Kanchanaburi Province, around 150 kilometers to the west of Bangkok. After the crash, both vehicles plunged into a roadside canal, the Bangkok Post reported. Around 100 rescue workers and police officers were rushed to the accident site. As of 1.40 p.m, eight bodies had been recovered. The Vietnamese Embassy in Thailand has confirmed that the dead included five Vietnamese nationals. Four other passengers were rescued and taken to a local hospital for treatment while two others are still missing, and are suspected to have drowned. A search is ongoing. The passenger van driver has survived the accident. The Road Safety Risk Map for 2019 released by International SOS and Control Risks shows Thailand has the highest road death rate in Southeast Asia, followed by Vietnam. Vietnam sent a record number of 140,000 guest workers abroad last year, an increase of 7 percent from a year ago. According to the International Organization for Migration, around 100,000 Vietnamese leave the country every year to live in more developed nations. A Singaporean man was arrested Wednesday for allegedly staging his own kidnapping in Vietnam, The Straits Times reported Thursday. The unnamed, 30-year-old man could be fined and jailed up to 10 years if found guilty. Singaporean police last month received a report filed by the mans relatives saying he had been kidnapped in Vietnam. The man told his relatives that $15,000 would have to be transferred to his bank account for his release. An unrevealed sum of money, not the full amount, was transferred to the mans account afterwards. But Singaporean and Vietnamese police later found that the man had not been kidnapped, but was actually safe and sound in Vietnam. It appears that he staged his own kidnapping so that his relatives would send him money. The man was arrested at Singapore's Changi Airport when he returned to the country Wednesday. U.S. Navy cruiser the USS Lake Champlain makes a port call in Tien Sa, Da Nang, on March 3, 2018. Photo by VnExpress/Nguyen Dong A senior U.S. official said Friday that enhancement of Vietnam's maritime capabilities is vital for regional security. "Vietnam now has a Coast Guard vessel that is the largest vessel in their Coast Guard fleet. We were very pleased to be able to provide that. We will continue to take additional efforts to increase Vietnams maritime capabilities," Patrick Murphy, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, told the media at a teleconference Friday. "Its important for Vietnam, its important for the region. They have a lot they can contribute," Murphy said. In May 2017, the U.S. transferred its former cutter, USCGC Morgenthau, to the Vietnam Coast Guard through the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program. The ship now serves the Vietnam Coast Guard as CSB 8020. Referring to the 25th anniversary of the normalization of Vietnam-U.S. diplomatic relations and Vietnam becoming ASEAN's chair next year, Murphy said the U.S. "looks forward to working very closely with Vietnam on regional issues and our bilateral relationship." He also said that the U.S. would continue carrying out its freedom of navigation activities in the South China Sea, and that all nations in the world benefit from traffic and trade on sea routes being unimpeded. Vietnam calls the waterway the East Sea. Under the administration of President Donald Trump, the U.S. Navy has been conducting freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea and sailing close to the artificial islands China has illegally constructed in Vietnam's Spratly (Truong Sa) Islands. The U.S. Air Force in March also deployed B-52 bombers to carry out freedom of overflight in the sea twice. "We will, as a matter of policy, continue to sail, to fly, to operate wherever international law operates," Murphy said. He also asserted that the Indo-Pacific region is a top priority for the U.S. government. "There are many visions within the region, and we welcome that, we embrace that, but were very encouraged to see such commonality among these visions in a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific." Buddhists listen to teachings in Ba Vang Pagoda of Quang Ninh Province March 21, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/Viet Tuan A northern Vietnam pagoda gets flak for paid exorcisms and propagating superstitions after a follower blames murder on victims karma. Outrage erupted after a Buddhist follower of the Ba Vang Pagoda in Quang Ninh Province said in a publicized video that a Vietnamese woman raped and killed recently suffered the fate because of evil deeds done in previous lives. The statement was made by Pham Thi Yen, head of a Buddhist group formed under the auspices of the pagoda in Uong Bi Town. She was referring to the rape and murder of 21-year-old Cao Thi My Duyen by a group of men in the northern province of Dien Bien last month. Her statement invited immediate backlash, with many people saying it was unacceptable, insensitive and irresponsible. "[The statement] is hurtful and not appropriate at all, especially to the victims family," said Nguyen Ngoc, 25, an office worker in Cau Giay District, Hanoi. "[Yens] statement is nonsensical and insulting," said Phuong Nguyen, 43, a journalist in Hanoi. In the video, Yen had also said that people getting possessed by spirits was common these days and they could only be exorcised by "spending money [on rituals] or doing volunteer work". Pham Thi Yen makes the statement on paid exorcisms. Photo acquired by VnExpress Soon after, an investigation by the Lao Dong newspaper stated that the pagoda affiliated with Yen makes hundreds of billions of Vietnamese dong (about $5 million) each year by organizing sessions to "commune, exorcise spirits and undo bad karma." Authorities then stepped in, with Minister of Culture Nguyen Ngoc Thien and the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha asking relevant state agencies Wednesday to verify reports on the pagodas activities. Voluntary payments In an exchange Thursday with the Uong Bi Peoples Committee, Thich Truc Thai Minh, head monk of Ba Vang Pagoda, confirmed that the pagoda did provide exorcism services, but insisted that all payment was voluntary. Thich Truc Thai Minh, head monk of Ba Vang Pagoda. Photo by VnExpress/Viet Tuan The same day, Minh spoke with 300 followers about the negative media reports about the pagodas activities, which was streamed live on the pagodas official website and Facebook page. He blamed it on individuals who were "envious and jealous" of the pagoda and sought to undermine its reputation. He asked followers to stay calm amidst the flurry of media coverage. He said spirits are real and exorcisms are good for people. "Vengeful spirits follow people often. They make us and our children sick and incite discord within families. We have exorcisms to drive them out," Minh said. The pagoda never forced anyone to perform rituals, only encouraged them. These are all done voluntarily, he said, adding that their work took its toll on monks, too. "There are days when we have to work until 3 a.m," Minh said. Some Buddhists have supported the monk, saying they have had illnesses cured and conflicts resolved thanks to exorcisms. "If I wanted to make money [out of performing exorcisms], I would have charged people for sightseeing or parking their vehicles," Minh said. He denied reports about the pagoda making billions of VND per year, adding that all the money given to the pagoda is spent on furnishing, painting statues, crafting bells and "doing good." However, when reporters asked him to comment on Duyens parents saying that it was unacceptable that their dead daughter is mentioned as an example of "bad karma," Minh did not answer. Not Buddhist at all Some leading Buddhist officials have said that the services provided by Ba Vang Pagoda are not Buddhist practices. There are no such thing as communicating with spirits or exorcism in Buddhism, said Thich Gia Quang, Vice President of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha's (VBS) Coordinating Board. Echoing Quang, Chu Van Tuan, director of the Hanoi-based Institute for Religious Studies, said the notion that spirits trouble people was fabricated. "Spending money to undo bad karma from past lives is a form of profiteering. Buddhism states that people can do so through doing good, not (spending) money," he said. Thich Duc Thien, Vice President and General Secretary of VBS, said blaming Duyens murder on bad karma "is not true to Buddhist principles and goes against societys moral values." "We all feel pain when any person is brutally murdered. To blame this on past lives ... is a fallacy [that condones] brutal acts in society. This is unacceptable," said Thien, adding that there would be fitting punishment from the Sangha once it receives reports from local authorities. Some officials have said that there will be repercussions if violations are found, and that government institutions overseeing Vietnams cultural and religious institutions should be more vigilant for such violations and punish them accordingly. "Authorities will soon work with Pham Thi Yen, who has made statements about vengeful spirits and bad karma .... If it is found that her behavior is superstitious and has made people suffer... it will be punished," Nguyen Manh Ha, Chairman of the Uong Bi Peoples Committee, said Thursday. The VBS has asked Quang Ninh Provinces Buddhist Sangha to discipline individuals if they are found to have preached superstitions in Ba Vang Pagoda. The Government Committee for Religious Affairs asked the VBS and Quang Ninh authorities Friday to verify media reports about Ba Vang Pagoda. It also asked the VBS to affirm that superstitions have no place in Buddhist institutions, that exorcism and communicating with spirits are not part of Buddhist traditions, and that such practices are a violation of the Vietnamese Law on Folk Belief and Religion and would be dealt with accordingly. Ba Vang Pagoda in Quang Ninh Province. Photo by VnExpress/Minh Cuong This is not the first time Ba Vang Pagoda has come under the scanner for propagating superstitious beliefs. Thich Dao Hien, deputy head of the Coordinating Board of Quang Ninh Provinces Buddhist Sangha, said that they had asked the pagoda to stop preaching about vengeful spirits in 2017, and even asked local authorities to deal with the fact that Yen was highlighting such beliefs. Nevertheless, the services continued. Ba Vang Pagoda, located on the Thanh Dang Mountain in Quang Trung District, Uong Bi Town, Quang Ninh Province, was first built in 1706. The pagoda was rebuilt in 2011 with money donated by devout Buddhists. Thich Truc Thai Minh became the pagodas head monk in 2007. The pagoda holds three sessions every month for exorcism and lectures on vengeful spirits. The events, often attended by thousands of people, have been held for several years. Participants are required to leave their phones, recorders and cameras outside before entering any session involving exorcism or communication with spirits. Vietnam is a predominantly Buddhist nation. It is estimated that over 70 percent of the Vietnamese population are either Buddhist or follow Buddhist practices. The Foreign Ministry of Poland is concerned about the decision of the Russian court on sentencing Ukrainian political prisoner Pavlo Hryb to six years of imprisonment and is calling on the Russian Federation to release him immediately, the press service of the Polish Foreign Ministry said. "We strongly demand the release of both Pavlo Hryb and all other Ukrainians who have been illegally detained by Russia, and to provide persons in need of help with proper medical care and contact with their families by that time. We also call to provide Ukrainian consular services to these people," it says. President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko condemns the visit of presidential candidate Yuriy Boiko and leader of the movement Ukrainian Choice - The Right of the People, member of the For Life Party Viktor Medvedchuk to Russia and negotiations with leaders of the government and Gazprom. "They are discussing the economy ... They are discussing the issue of making Ukraine dependable again on the Russian gas, they are already discussing unions, which will be created after the presidential elections, after the parliamentary elections. And now they all claim that everyone will unite. Whom will they unite against? Against Ukraine, against each of us," Poroshenko said at the Regional Development Council in Chernivtsi region on Saturday. The president stressed that representatives of some political forces went to Moscow, and representatives of other political forces in Ukraine are ready to kneel before the president of the Russian Federation. According to him, Russian President Vladimir Putin, making sure that he cannot defeat Ukraine at the front, wants to change it from the inside and change power. "Moscow sees the strength of NATO and it does not dare to attack the strength of the Alliance. Moscow sees a strong Ukrainian army and understands that the price for an irresponsible decision of widespread aggression against our state will increase significantly, and Putin therefore has a plan to change tactics - not through victory on the front - it is already impossible for him, but to change the power in Ukraine from the inside, because then it will be possible to change our European and Euro-Atlantic course," Poroshenko noted. As reported, on March 22, Yuriy Boiko, a presidential candidate and the leader of the Ukrainian Choice-People's Right movement, and Viktor Medvedchuk, a member of the For Life party, met with Prime Minister Medvedev and Gazprom chief Alexei Miller in Moscow. The meeting focused on Ukraine continuing to transit Russian natural gas and the possibility of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. Miller backed Medvedchuk's proposal to revisit the idea of setting up a consortium to run Ukraine's gas transit system. The United States and the United Kingdom are concerned about the decision of the Russian court, which sentenced Ukrainian political prisoner Pavlo Hryb to six years in prison, and urge Moscow to immediately release the Ukrainian. "We are deeply concerned about today's Russian court decision unjustly sentencing Pavlo Hryb to six years in a penal colony. We are also concerned about Hryb's precarious health situation," the U.S. Embassy to Ukraine said on Twitter on Friday. The U.S. calls on Russia "to release all political prisoners immediately, to respect Ukraine's sovereignty and the rights of its citizens, and to cease its baseless political persecutions of Ukrainians." Jeremy Hunt, UK's Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, also called on Russia to immediately release Hryb. "Russia's continued use of politically motivated detentions is appalling. Pavlo Hryb was today sentenced to 6 yrs. He is suffering from serious medical conditions & has not received adequate care in Russian detention. I echo @pavloklimkin & call for his immediate release #FreeHryb," Hunt wrote on Twitter. Pavlo Hryb was detained while visiting Belarus on August 24, 2017. He was 19 at the time. It emerged later that he was held at a pretrial detention facility in Russia's Krasnodar. Russia accused Hryb of instigation of terrorism. He has denied any wrongdoing. The North Caucasus Military District Court sentenced Hryb to six years in a general security penitentiary on Friday. Hryb said in his last plea that he did not admit the charges of facilitating terrorist activities. Due to deteriorating health, Hryb needs urgent medical care, including surgery. This project was a full reimagining of a much-loved family retreat on the Murray River, 120km from Adelaide in South Australia. The brief was to squeeze as much out of the tight living space whilst opening up the pokey hidden away lime green 70s kitchen. From the architect: Upstairs, walls were removed and stairs realigned to make the most out of the available space and downstairs a large room was divided into a guest room and a fun kids' bunk room. Using plywood with a whitewash finish on the new elements meant the design was simple to build for the local trades but achieved a relaxed and comfortable holiday feel. Pendant lights crafted from local limestone positioned over the custom designed solid oak kitchen table added a unique local touch. Architect : James Allen Architect Location : Murray River South Australia , Australia Year : 2017 Photography : Jame Allen YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Art Deco Apartment by James Allen Architect YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Residence Le Nid: Overlooking the St. Lawrence River by Anne Carrier architecture YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Black House on Nevezis River Slope by NEBRAU BEFORE RENOVATION: Poroshenko says he is ready to accept any choice of Ukrainian people President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko declares that he will accept any result of the presidential election in Ukraine. "I am ready to accept the victory of the Ukrainian people, because fair elections are a victory for the Ukrainian people, whoever wins," he said in an interview with the Ukraina TV on Friday evening. Poroshenko stressed that he is confident in his victory, but the most important for him is free elections. "I declare that there will be an absolutely strict and clear requirement for law enforcement agencies to protect the elections, stop extremists, and not allow bloodshed. And I want to assure our Ukrainian citizens that I, as president, will make every effort to protect constitutional rights and freedoms of citizens," he said, speaking of possible attempts by the Russian Federation to disrupt the election of the president of Ukraine. ' Poroshenko also expressed confidence that law enforcement agencies must toughly respond to any attempt to bribe voters on the part of all presidential candidates. The president noted that the law enforcement officers in the framework of criminal cases had already detained people and arrested funds illegally used by some candidates in the election campaign. "I will support it regardless of the political force of those who try to discredit the confidence of the world, to discredit Ukrainians' confidence in the elections," the head of state said. Volodymyr Zelensky, a presidential candidate of Ukraine, believes that in order to resolve the conflict in Donbas and restore Ukraine's territorial integrity, it is necessary to win an informational "war" and work to make the population in the occupied territories feel part of Ukraine. "We need to start a serious information war and win it. I talked about this with my American colleagues, and they supported such an initiative. People, who live in the occupied territory of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, should return to understanding that they are Ukrainians," he said in the "Interview with the Presidential Candidate" program on ICTV. Zelensky suggests making a powerful Russian-language channel that would be international, that would broadcast to the territory of Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk, to the territory of Europe, the U.S. and Israel, and would show "real news and real life in Ukraine in the right way." "We should tell them [residents of the occupied territories] that they have been deceived by conducting an information war that they are being deprived of the Russian language. We do understand that the language was not the reason for the escalation of Russian aggression. We should tell them that the only thing they were hooked on is that allegedly there is an intention to take away this Russian language. I would do it purposefully," he noted. Zelensky believes that Ukraine should pay pensions to those living in these territories. "It is clear that they come to the territory of Ukraine, get it and leave. But most of the people there are deprived of it. I would return it. Experts say that this can be a big loss for the budget of our country, but that is also our country. If we say that Luhansk and Donetsk are our country, then we must do it," he explained. In his opinion, Ukraine should send a signal to the inhabitants of the occupied territories of Donbas and Crimea that "we remember you, you are ours, you are entrapped, but we are one country, and we will definitely return." Zelensky believes that the proper development of the Ukrainian economy and the demonstration of this will create "a wave that will start from Donetsk and Luhansk and even pass into Russia." "When these people begin to doubt, they themselves will help us very much to return these territories," he said. At the same time, the presidential candidate of Ukraine believes that the annexed Crimea can be returned to Ukraine, when "there is a change of authorities in Russia." Volodymyr Zelensky, a presidential candidate of Ukraine, again emphasizes that he does not depend on and has no agreement with businessman Ihor Kolomoisky, on whose (1 + 1 TV channel) television projects of the Kvartal 95 studio are shown. "I'm not interested in doing something if there is dishonest money or if I fulfill someone's will. Now they write a lot about my dependence on Mr. Kolomoisky. I don't have any agreements with him, signatures, or memorandums about the way I serve the owner Kolomoisky. He's not my boss. I don't have any boss," he said in the "Interview with Presidential Candidate" program on ICTV. Zelensky noted that almost all large TV channels in Ukraine, large enterprises belong to "financial giants." But this does not mean that all the people who work on these channels are not independent. They have contracts with this company, and who the owner of this company is, generally speaking, should not worry anyone. And the situation is similar in the whole world - some groups own some channels," he added. Zelensky stressed that his business relationship with Kolomoisky is exclusively business, and his studio Kvartal 95 and he earned their money themselves. G7 Ambassadors have sent a letter to Interior Minister of Ukraine Arsen Avakov, in which they expressed concern about the threat of the activities of "extremist movements" in Ukraine and the possible disruption of the presidential election, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) has reported. Correspondent Christopher Miller writes in his article that the RFE/RL obtained copies of two letters prepared by the G7 Ambassadors' Support Group for Ukraine - one sent privately and the other drafted but watered down before being shared publicly. The ambassadors' group comprises envoys from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In the letter that was addressed to Avakov on March 15, French Ambassador Isabelle Dumont wrote on behalf of her fellow ambassadors that "the G7 group is concerned by extreme political movements in Ukraine, whose violent actions are worrying in themselves." "They intimidate Ukrainian citizens, attempt to usurp the role of the National Police in safeguarding elections, and damage the Ukrainian government's national and international reputation," Dumont said. The journalist writes in his article that the letter contains a veiled reference to the National Corps Party and the National Guard Squads (Druzhinas) nationalist movement. Director of the Liaison Department of the Interior Ministry Artem Shevchenko confirmed to Radio Liberty that Minister Avakov had received a letter from diplomats. According to him, the position of the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs regarding extremist political movements in Ukraine "remains firm and indisputable." While Irans foreign ministry has denied reports about hacking the telephones of Israeli politicians, a conservative ayatollah has claimed Iran has hacked the telephones of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus family. Ahmad Alamolhoda, the custodian of the holy shrine in Mashhad and a close ally of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei also claimed on March 22: In the past few days Irans cyber-attacks have resulted in hacking the mobile telephone of a candidate in Israeli elections and access to all the information. Referring to media reports, he added that Iran has hacked the telephones of Netanyahu family members. The news about the prime minister's family first emerged on a new Saudi based news website, Independent Arabic. Israels Channel 12 TV reported last week that the mobile phone of Benny Gantz a leading candidate in the upcoming Israeli elections and also another candidate were hacked by Iran. Netanyahu got involved in the controversy by denying he had a role in publicizing the hacking story, insisting that Iran is supporting the rival candidates. Gantz and his supporters claimed that Netanyahu is involving Irans name in the elections to increase his chances for victory. Four Iranian borders guards freed in Pakistan on the eve of the Iranian New Year March 20, returned home on Friday, March 22, local news outlets reported. They were welcomed by several commanders of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), including its infantry commander, Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Bahram Ghasemi, expressed his gratitude to the Pakistani government and army for helping their release. "I hope that the remaining abductees will be freed and return to Iran as soon as possible," he said. Fifteen Iranian Basijis (volunteer forces serving under the command of the IRGC) and border guards were kidnapped by an insurgent Baluchi group on October 15, 2018, near the Iran-Pakistan border. According to Jaish ul-Adl, a militant Sunni group opposed to the Islamic Republic of Iran, the border guards, serving at an outpost in the city of Mirjaveh, southeast Iran, were "captured" by the group. IRGC Chief Commander Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari claimed at the time the guards were first drugged and then kidnapped. However, five of the border guards were later released through the efforts of the Pakistani government on November 15, 2018. Jaish ul-Adl, which claims to be fighting for the Sunni Baluch minority's rights in Iran, has repeatedly attacked Iranian border guards, killing or taking them hostage in Iran's second-largest province, Sistan&Baluchestan, bordering Pakistan. Iranian authorities maintain that Jaish ul-Adl is a terrorist group related to "foreign governments. Following the release of the four border guards on Wednesday, Commander of IRGC Ground Force Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour said that there are still six others held by Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan. In a statement on Thursday, Pakistan Army said that it had freed four Iranian border guards in Chaghi district, in Pakistan's province of Balochistan. The southern part of Irans Sistan and Baluchestan, bordering Pakistan, has been the scene of frequent clashes between Sunni Baluch militants and the Islamic Republics forces. The Islamic Republics security forces also frequently clash with drug traffickers in the area, which is located on a major smuggling route for Afghan opium and heroin. Tehran has repeatedly accused Islamabad of standing idly by, ignoring the fact that Pakistan has been turned into a safe haven for armed groups to attack Iran. The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has extended the mandate of its special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran for another year. During a session on March 22, the representatives of 22 governments voted for and seven (Afghanistan, China, Cuba, Eritrea, India, Iraq, and Pakistan) voted against a resolution for the extension of Javaid Rehman's mandate, while 18 abstained. Rehman, 32, a Pakistani-born British legal scholar and professor of Islamic law, was appointed to the position in July 2018 after former rapporteur Asma Jahangir passed away in February 2018. In his latest report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council on February 27, Rehman voiced concern over human rights violations in Iran, paying particular attention to the implementation of the death penalty. Directly addressing the high authorities in Iran, Rehman asked them to provide the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the special rapporteur with a list of all child offenders on death row. The recent crackdown on labor rights in Iran was also given special attention in Rehmans report. Meanwhile, Irans official news agency (IRNA) cited Tehran's representative to the European headquarters of the UN, Esmaeil Baghaei Hamaneh, as saying the resolution was an unfair, dishonest, and unjustified plan devised by "some certain governments." Passing the resolution, Baghaei Hamaneh argued, will merely reinforce illusionary cliches against Iran. "It is saddening that the time and budget of the UNHRC are wasted on devising such stereotypes cooked up by a few against a member of the UN," Baghaei Hamaneh said. Previously, in a letter published on March 15, more than 40 human rights organizations had supported the renewal of the mandate for the UN special rapporteur for human rights in Iran. In their letter, a copy of which was published by the New York-based Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI), 42 organizations called on the members of UNHRC to extend Rehman's mandate. In November 2016, Jahangir, a Pakistani human rights lawyer and social activist who co-founded and chaired the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, replaced Maldivian diplomat and politician Ahmed Shaheed as the UN special rapporteur on Iran. Jahangir, 66, suffered a stroke and a brain hemorrhage in Lahore in February 2018 and later died in the hospital. A professor of Islamic and international law at Brunel University, Rehman was appointed as Jahangirs successor and took office in July 2018. Iran never allowed Shaheed, Jahangir or Rehman to visit Iran, despite their repeated requests. Before the establishment of UNHRC to replace the UN Human Rights Commission, former Venezuelan Justice Minister Andres Aguilar was the representative of the UN for monitoring human rights in Iran (1984-1986). Aguilar's successor, Salvadoran lawyer, Reynaldo Galindo Pohl, served as UN special rapporteur for human rights in Iran from 1986 to 1995. Galindo Pohl's successor, Canadian lawyer Maurice Danby Capithorne, served until 2002. In an interview with Radio Free Europe, Danby Copithorne disclosed that his first report on human rights in Iran infuriated the Iranian authorities to the extent that they banned him from visiting Tehran. On December 17, 2018, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution condemning widespread human rights violations in Iran. The resolution denounced the countrys ongoing severe limitations and restrictions on the right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, or belief." Furthermore, Tehran was blamed by the resolution for restrictions and attacks on places of worship and burial and other human rights violations. These included but not limited to harassment, intimidation, persecution, arbitrary arrests, and detention, denial of access to education and incitement to hatred leading to violence against persons belonging to recognized and unrecognized religious minorities. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 Trend: Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops 25 times, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said March 23, Trend reports. The Armenian armed forces were using heavy machine guns. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 Trend: Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Elmar Mammadyarov first met the Vice-President of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, as well as the President of the Senate of Uruguay Lucia Topolansky and then President of the Chamber of Representatives Cecillia Bottino. At the meetings the intensification of bilateral relations between the two countries, in particular the role of the parliament diplomacy was highly appreciated. In this context, it was emphasized that the mutual visits of interparliamentary friendship groups of both countries make a significant contribution to the bilateral relations, Trend reports referring to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. Expressing their satisfaction with the development of cooperation in political sphere between the two countries, the sides highlighted the importance of this cooperation covering as well the economic, energy, transport and agricultural fields. In this regard, starting of importing the Azerbaijani oil by Uruguay was particularly stressed. During the meeting Minister Elmar Mammadyarov gave information about the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the current status of the negotiation process of conflict settlement, adding that the provocative actions of the members of the Armenian diaspora in various countries negatively impact the peaceful resolution of the conflict. On the other hand, it was underlined that defending the interests of aggressor Armenia, not the country of their citizenship by these community representatives is hard to understand. Senior officials of the Uruguayan Parliament stated that they understand the position of Azerbaijan on the conflict, and support the resolution of conflicts within the framework of international law. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 Trend: Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay Rodolfo Nin Novoa and held discussions on wide range of issues of bilateral relations, Trend reports referring to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. At the meeting successful development of bilateral relations was appreciated and intention of further developping the cooperation was expressed. The importance of considering the existing opportunities for wide cooperation in economic, agriculture, energy, transport, education, culture and tourism spheres and taking concrete steps in this direction was highlighted. Minister Mammadyarov noted that Azerbaijan was among 5 largest oil exporting countries to Uruguay last year, which is a vivid example of develeopment of trade relations between the two countries. Minister said that some states of Latin America get access to Asia by using the transit-transport infrastructure passing through the territory of Azerbaijan and stressed the possibility for Uruguay to use these opportunities. At the meeting Minister Mammadyarov informed his counterpart on the current negotiation process of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and noted with satisfaction the position of Uruguay on the settelement of the conflict based on internationa law. On his turn, minister Rodolfo Nin Novoa expressed the interest of his country in further deepening of relations with Azerbaijan. Realizing the sensitivity of the conflict issue for Azerbaijan, Minister Nin Novoa said that the current position of Uruguay based on international law and documents adopted by international organizations will remain unchanged. Minister Mammadyarov noted the mutually beneficial cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uruguay within international organizations and pointed out that the positions of both sides over numerous issues of international agenda overlap. He expressed his hope on the participation of Uruguay at the highest level at the Summit meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement to be held in Baku on October of this year. It was agreed at the meeting to evaluate the cooperation opportunities between the Azerbaijan International Development Agency (AIDA) and Uruguay International Cooperation Agency. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 Trend: On March 23, a delegation of the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan that is on an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan watched a military parade dedicated to the National Day of Pakistan, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said March 23, Trend reports. Minister of Defense Colonel General Zakir Hasanov took part in the parade as a distinguished guest. Our country has been represented by the parade squad of the Azerbaijan Army in a military parade held with the participation of representatives of the armed forces of many states. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 By Sara Israfilbayova Trend: Today Azerbaijan needs more technical assistance and less financial support, Mercy Tembon, the World Banks (WB) Regional Director for the South Caucasus, said in an exclusive interview with Trend. "In 1992, when Azerbaijan joined the WB group, it was not that developed and needed a lot of investments. But as time goes by, we can see that need for financial support is not as big as it used to be back then," she said. Tembon stressed that although the WBs program with the Azerbaijani government equally consists of all three components (financial assistance, technical assistance, knowledge sharing). Further, answering the question on financing of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC), she said that if any help is needed, the World Bank is always ready to provide the necessary support. The regional director said that SGC is a fantastic project, adding that the WB is happy of being one of the first international financial institutions, financing the project. The Southern Gas Corridor envisages the transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian region through Georgia and Turkey to Europe. The gas from the Azerbaijani Shah Deniz field has already gone through the first segment of the Southern Gas Corridor - from the Sangachal terminal to the expanded South Caucasus Pipeline. Azerbaijan joined the World Bank Group in 1992. During this period, the bank allocated loans for the implementation of over 50 projects in the country worth over $3 billion. Seven more projects worth about $1.5 billion are being implemented. Besides the loans, WB allocated 45 grants to Azerbaijan totalling $41.586 million in 1995-2014. ---- Follow the author on Twitter: @Israfilbekova Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: The Russian airline company IrAero is expanding the geography of flights from Azerbaijan, Trend reports with reference to the company. Regular flights to Russias Orenburg, Yekaterinburg and Chelyabinsk cities are available from Baku. The flights will be operated on Russian Superjet 100 aircraft. Baku-Orenburg and Orenburg-Baku flights will start from April 20, 2019. The flight will last two hours and will take place on Saturdays. The ticket price will start from 123 euros one way. Baku-Yekaterinburg and Yekaterinburg-Baku flights will be launched June 18, 2019 and will be operated on Tuesdays. The travel time will be three hours. The ticket price will start from 143 euros one way. Baku-Chelyabinsk and Chelyabinsk-Baku flights will be operated on Tuesdays from April 9 and September 10 and on Thursdays from June 20. The travel time will be three hours. The ticket price will start from 136 euros one way. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: Azerbaijan expects to transship at least 4 million tons of Turkmen oil via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline in 2020, Elshad Nassirov, vice president for marketing and investments of Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR, said in an interview with S&P Global Platts, Trend reports. SOCAR transports crude oil from Turkmenistan across the Caspian Sea in tankers to the BTC pipeline. "Last year we transshipped approximately 4.2 million tons [of crude from Turkmenistan]. We expect this figure to be lower this year, but in 2020 I think it will be no less than 4 million tons," Nassirov said. Azerbaijan is also looking to increase cooperation with other Caspian states, particularly on transportation, he added. SOCAR also signed memorandum of understanding with Kazakhstan's KazMunaiGas earlier this year that envisages increasing cooperation on oil and gas production as well as transportation. In the medium term this may include Kazakhstan resuming deliveries via the BTC pipeline network as oil production there grows. The total length of the BTC pipeline is 1,768 kilometers, 443 kilometers of which passes through Azerbaijan, 249 through Georgia and 1,076 through Turkey. Construction of the pipeline was commenced in April 2003, and the pipeline was filled with oil on May 18, 2005. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: The total value of the investment portfolio of the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) as of end-2019 is projected at $ 41.5 billion, the Fund told Trend. "If the Funds expenses remain at the level approved in the budget for 2019, the total value (weighted average) of the SOFAZ investment portfolio as of end-2019 is forecasted to stand at $ 41.5 billion," said SOFAZ. In addition, the Fund announced the currency structure of its investment portfolio for this year. "As you know, the diversification of the SOFAZ investment portfolio in terms of currency is regulated by the Investment Policy. The currency structure of the SOFAZ investment portfolio for 2019 is as follows: 50 percent of assets can be in dollars, 35 percent in euros, 5 percent in British pounds and up to 10 percent in other currencies," the Fund said. SOFAZ was established in 1999 with assets of $271 million. Based on SOFAZ's regulations, its funds may be used for the construction and reconstruction of strategically important infrastructure facilities, as well as solving important national problems. The main goals of the State Oil Fund include accumulation of resources and placement of assets abroad in order to minimize the negative effect to the economy, prevention of "Dutch disease" to some extent, promotion of resource accumulation for future generations and support of current social and economic processes in Azerbaijan. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 Trend: The US deeply values the contributions of Kazakhstans first President Nursultan Nazarbayev to establishing and promoting enduring, dynamic relations between the US and Kazakhstan, reads a statement by Robert Palladino, deputy spokesperson of the US Department of State, Trend reports via Kazinform March 23. At this historic moment in Kazakhstan, we salute Nazarbayevs role as the father of todays modern, sovereign, and prosperous Kazakhstan, and acknowledge the example he sets for responsible regional and global leadership, reads the statement. We once again applaud his significant efforts in the nonproliferation sphere, his leadership in global denuclearization efforts, his exemplary commitment to the peaceful transition of power, and his contributions to peace and prosperity in Kazakhstan and the region. Our relationship with Kazakhstan is based in our shared ideals of prosperity, respect for fundamental freedoms, and regional security, the statement said. We congratulate Kazakhstans new President Kassym-Zhomart Tokayev and look forward to continue working with him to deepen our enhanced strategic partnership and advance our longstanding mutual interests in economic development, trade and investment, and safeguarding regional and global security. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, March 23 By Huseyn Hasanov - Trend: Matthew S. Klimow of Virginia, will be the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Turkmenistan, Trend reports citing the White House. Klimow, a career member of the Senior Executive Service, currently serves as Senior Advisor in the Office of the Under Secretary for Management at the Department of State. Previously, Klimow served as a Deputy Assistant Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Brussels, Belgium, and as a United States Army officer from 1974 to 2003, retiring with the rank of colonel. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 Trend: The PJSB Trustbank of Uzbekistan has resumed participation in currency trading, Trend reports via Uzbek media. On March 19 this year, the bank didnt take part in currency trading on the Republican Currency Exchange for the purchase and sale of foreign currency, the banks press service said. After thorough examination by the regulator of the circumstances that emerged related to transactions at the currency exchange, on March 20, 2019, Trustbank was admitted to currency trading in a regular mode. All the needs of the bank at the request of customers were fully satisfied at the currency exchange. Trustbank guarantees the fulfillment of obligations under the current legislation and highly appreciates the trust of its customers and partners. Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 23 By Elnur Baghishov Trend: By improving the 27th phase of the joint South Pars Gas Complex, Iran will produce 750 million cubic meters of sour gas daily, Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Zanganeh said at a press conference on the launch of the phases of the South Pars gas field in Irans southern Bushehr Province, Trend reports referring to Tasnim News Agency. Zanganeh stated that 2 projects will be launched in the 14th phase and will be completed in 2020. "Currently, 2 of the 4 platforms in the 13th phase, and 2 out of 4 platforms of the 22nd, 23rd and 24th phases are ready for commission," he said. Praising the role of the Khatam al-Anbiya Construction Headquarter in the construction and the development of the 6 phases of the South Pars Gas Complex, the minister said that there are a number of tasks still awaiting completion at the seafront of the 13th, 22nd, 23rd and 24th phases, and that they will be commissioned in the first half of next year (begins March 21, 2019). Zanganeh went on to say that Iran is responsible for 90 percent of the construction work being carried out in the phases and for 60 percent of the equipment. As for Iran's gas exports to Oman, Zanganeh said that the time has come for Oman to cooperate in the implementation of this project. "Because the tender documents are all ready, and we are currently expecting the Omani side to continue the cooperation," he said. Regarding the future of the 11th phase of the South Pars Gas Complex, the minister said that a group from China will soon come to Iran and its future will soon be decided. Zanganeh mentioned that during the recent visit of the Iranian president to Iraq, it was offered by the Iranian side to supply Iranian gas through Iraq to Syria and Lebanon. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 23 By Matanat Nasibova Trend: Assumptions regarding the transit of Iranian gas to Georgia through Armenia have no basis for practical implementation, Farhad Ibrahimov, the expert of the Center for Post-Soviet Studies of the Primakov Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Russian political analyst, told Trend. He was commenting on this topic frequently discussed in the Armenian media. He said that for the implementation of the pipeline construction project from Iran to Georgia through Armenia, great financial resources are required, and they are unlikely to be covered by the Iranian side. I doubt that Iran will pay for this, because the country itself is actively seeking investments due to the sanctions, while Armenia and Georgia simply dont have such financial resource, he noted. Obviously, Nikol Pashinyan hopes to involve Georgia in his projects and expects that it will reduce gas imports from Azerbaijan. However, Georgia gets gas from Azerbaijan on quite favorable terms and Tbilisi is unlikely to look for alternative sources. Therefore, it is safe to say that all initiatives on gas supplies from Iran to Georgia through Armenia will remain only in words. The political analyst further noted that Armenia is going through a period of uncertainty, which is related to the chaotic foreign policy pursued by Pashinyan. On the one hand, he is trying to build relations with Russia in such a way as to show his electorate how serious he is and that the things wont be as they were before, on the other hand, he is counting on the support of Western countries in order to achieve his goals, Ibrahimov said. But he doesnt succeed in this, either, since there is nothing besides statements and words. Now, he turns to Iran for help hoping to get gas at a low price from the country. However, Iranians dont intend to sell their gas at a low price, especially in the current economic conditions. Moreover, before discussing economic issues, it is necessary to consider the political ones, Ibrahimov added. Throughout the whole year, Tehran has been closely following the course of events in Armenia, in particular, the speeches and statements by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. It is no secret that the Armenian prime minister surrounded himself with the people of pro-Western orientation, therefore, in their understanding, Pashinyan is a supporter of the West, and therefore, as a political figure, he isnt reliable. There are no pro-Iranian forces in Armenia, therefore, at the earliest opportunity all the agreements between Yerevan and Tehran will be terminated. In Ibrahimovs opinion, this fact doesnt suit the Iranian side at all, which is interested in stability in general, including stability in political relations. The Saudi-led coalition has launched raids on Houthi camps in Sanaa including al-Dailami Dailami air base which shares the structures with Sana'a International Airport, Al-Arabiya TV reported, Trend reports citing Sputnik. Yemen has been engulfed in a violent conflict between the government headed by President Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi and the Shiite Houthi movement, also known as Ansar Allah, backed by army units loyal to former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, for several years. Late last year, Saudi and UAE warplanes reportedly conducted more than 200 airstrikes on targets in and near Hudaydah amid Houthis calls to declare a ceasefire with the Saudi-led coalition and a peaceful settlement of the Yemen crisis. The Arab Coalition mounted air raids targeting Houthi sites in Yemens capital of Sanaa, Trend reported citing Al Arabiya. The raids targeted two sites in Sanaa which were used by the Houthi militia to store unmanned drones. We are asking civilians not to approach the targeted sites for their own safety, a statement released read. Al Arabiya sources also confirmed that the Arab Coalition launched separate air raids on Houthi sites in the province of al-Bayda. Visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Italian Senate Speaker Maria Elisabetta Alberti Casellati here Friday on expanding exchanges and cooperation between the two countries' legislative institutions, Trend reports citing Xinhua. China and Italy have enjoyed a traditional friendship, with the ancient Silk Road closely linking the two peoples, Xi said. Since they established diplomatic relations nearly 50 years ago, the China-Italy ties have seen healthy and stable development, and the two countries have become important partners who trust each other and work together, Xi said. The visit is meant to consolidate the stability and strategic nature of the China-Italy relations in the long term, and comprehensively elevate the level of their mutually beneficial cooperation, Xi said. China is willing to enhance high-level guidance with the Italian side, respect each other's major concerns, jointly build the Belt and Road, explore cooperation with third parties, boost cultural exchanges and local-level cooperation, and strengthen popular support for bilateral relations, Xi said. The Chinese president stressed that in recent years, China's National People's Congress and the Italian Senate have established a regular exchange mechanism. China supports the two countries' legislative bodies to carry out multi-level, wide-ranging and multi-channel exchanges and cooperation, and share successful experience on major issues such as legislative supervision, state governing, national economy and the people's livelihood, on the basis of mutual respect and mutual learning, Xi said. He said he hopes that the Italian Senate will continue to play an active facilitating role, and create better conditions for and inject greater momentum into the development of bilateral relations. The Italian Senate warmly welcomes Xi for his visit, Casellati said, noting that the Italian and Chinese peoples have always trusted each other and maintained profound friendship, with close ties in such fields as economy and trade, and culture. The Senate speaker said she agrees with Xi on his remarks about the traditional friendly exchanges between the two countries dating back over 2,000 years, published in leading Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera ahead of his visit. China and Italy are major countries that boast a rich culture, she said, adding that Italy is willing to boost communication and cooperation with the Chinese side in such fields as culture, art, language, heritage protection, tourism, science and technology, and innovation, and encourage their youths to increase exchanges and mutual understanding. The Italian side looks forward to enhancing cooperation with China on jointly building the Belt and Road, She said. Noting that the history of Italy-China exchanges for the past 50 years has been a history of dialogue and friendship, the speaker said the Italian Senate is willing to facilitate exchanges between the two countries' legislative institutions, and continue to make contributions to deepening Italy-China friendly cooperation. Xi arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. China can speed up the opening of its financial sector if the United States is unhappy with the pace because it will be good for both countries, Fang Xinghai, vice chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, said on Saturday, Trend reports citing Reuters. If the U.S. side complains that we have opened up too slowly, we can speed it up ... We are fully convinced its good for both countries - its good for China and good for the United States, Fang said at the annual China Development Forum. In the securities industry, mutual fund management, no problem, we can compete. The two countries have been working to resolve a bitter trade dispute that has rattled financial markets and disrupted world supply chains in a blow to global growth. The United States has accused China of limiting market access for U.S. firms, forcing companies to transfer technology and providing little protection for intellectual property rights. Italy is considering compensation claims against the European Commission for the strict interpretation it gave to EU banking rules, the Italian prime minister said on Friday, after a landmark EU ruling this week over a bank rescue. On Tuesday the EU general court overturned Brussels decision to block a 2014 rescue plan of small Italian lender Tercas, prompting compensation calls from Italian banks which argued that subsequent banking rescues in Italy were more costly because of the Commissions strict position. We have to draw political and juridical conclusions, including about a compensation plan, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte told reporters after a summit of EU leaders in Brussels. Earlier this week Italian Foreign Minister Enzo Moavero Milanesi had also flagged the possibility of a legal action against Brussels. Conte backed Moaveros comments but called for a cautious approach as the EU Commission could also appeal the ruling, he told reporters. Conte, whose eurosceptic government has used public funds to help Italys ailing Carige bank and has not ruled out further support, said the Tercas ruling set a precedent which could enable a less strict application of EU banking rules. The European Commission has said it is assessing the judgment and its consequences on future interventions. Seven banks have been rescued in Italy since the Tercas case, including Banca Monte dei Paschi, the worlds oldest lender still in operation, and a smaller bank in Tuscany whose collapse and the subsequent wipeout of its creditors triggered the suicide of one of them. The Tercas rescue was orchestrated by Italys deposit guarantee fund, which Brussels said could not be used for measures other than its core function of paying back savers hit by a bank failure. The EU court ruling, labeled historic by EU lawmakers, effectively dismissed the Commissions argument. The signing of the agreement comes during Chinese President Xi Jinping's three-day visit to Italy in an attempt to improve relations with Rome as China is currently engaged in a trade war with Washington, Trend reports citing Sputnik. Italy approved on Saturday China's Belt and Road (BRI) industrial initiative - this move makes the European country the first member of the Group of Seven (G7) powerful economies to join the Chinese project. In addition to the 'Belt and Road' deal, Chinese and Italian businesses concluded around ten other trade agreements these include projects in the steel, energy and gas industries. This comes after on 22 March Italian President Sergio Mattarella commented on the planned deal signing with China saying that it would create "perfect conditions" for boosting cooperation between the two countries' businesses. He also expressed hope that the BRI, also known as the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, would be a "two-way road," and it would allow exchanging not only of goods but of ideas. His Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, who is currently on an official three-day visit to Italy, for his part, said that he and Mattarella had reached a "broad agreement." In 2013, Xi unveiled China's planned Belt and Road project; its aim is to accelerate economic advancement and strengthen relations between Eurasian countries. Two explosions went off at a public celebration in the southern Afghan city of Lashkar Gah on Saturday, killing two people and wounding the governor of Helmand province, security and hospital officials said, Trend reports citing Reuters. The blasts came during a Farmers Day celebration at an outdoor stadium that was attended by nearly 1,000 people. The provincial governor, Mohammad Yasin Khan, was knocked over by the blasts before he was quickly removed from the celebration, according to a Reuters witness. The governors condition was unclear. Two people were killed and 23 were wounded, according to initial estimates by hospital officials. The blasts appeared to have been caused by planted explosives. The attack is one of several to occur during Afghanistans multi-day celebrations to mark its traditional new year, beginning with explosions in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday. Those attacks killed six people and wounded 23 and were claimed by Islamic State. 11:32 (GMT+4) Two explosions went off at a public celebration in the southern Afghan city of Lashkar Gah on Saturday, wounding the governor of Helmand province, security officials said, Trend reports citing Reuters. The blast came during a Farmers Day celebration. The provincial governor, Mohammad Yasin Khan, was knocked over by the blasts before he was quickly removed from the celebration, according to a Reuters witness. Emergency workers arrived to tend to at least 15 wounded, the witness said. The cause of the blasts was not clear but they appeared to have been caused by planted explosives. It was not immediately clear if anyone was killed. Helmand is one of several Afghan provinces in which insurgents have the greatest control and influence. Lashkar Gah is the provincial capital. Somalias al Shabaab stormed a government building on Saturday, detonating a suicide car bomb in the heart of the capital Mogadishu with at least 15 people, including an assistant minister, killed during the ensuing gun battle, Trend reported citing Reuters. In the latest bombing claimed by al Shabaab, an Islamist group which is fighting to establish its own rule in Somalia, based on a strict interpretation of sharia law, a huge explosion shook central Mogadishu and a large plume of smoke rose above a building housing Somalias ministries of labour and works. Police later said the fighting at the building had ended and that the premises had been completely secured. The building was secured by security forces. The four militants who attacked the building were shot dead. Another militant was a suicide car bomber and so he also died, Major Ali Abdullahi, a police officer told Reuters. Abdullahi said ten people, including assistant labour minister Saqar Ibrahim Abdala and police personnel, had died. Police said earlier that some 20 people had been injured in the assault, which began when a suicide bomber detonated a car bomb, allowing other militants to storm the building. Dr. Abdikadir Abdirahman, director of Amin Ambulance Service told Reuters soon after the assault began that people were trapped inside the building and that it was not possible to rescue them because of a heavy exchange of fire. Al Shabaab told Reuters one of its fighters had rammed the ministry building with a car bomb allowing others to enter. Abdiasis Abu Musab, al Shabaabs military operation spokesman later said he understood 20 people had been killed. In a separate assault on Saturday, Abu Musab said al Shabaab had exploded a roadside bomb at a security checkpoint in Mogadishu that killed three government soldiers and also injured a local lawmaker and three of his bodyguards. Police confirmed the roadside bomb attack but said two civilians and one soldier had been killed by the blast while a local lawmaker from one of Somalias federal states was injured. Al Shabaab, which is trying to topple Somalias western backed central government, was ejected from Mogadishu in 2011 and has since been driven from most of its other strongholds. But it remains a threat, with its fighters frequently carrying out bombings in Somalia and neighbouring Kenya, whose troops form part of the African Union mandated peacekeeping force AMISOM that helps defend Somalias central government. Additional reporting by Feisal Omar; writing by El The highest level of threat was declared on Friday in the Brazilian municipality of Barao de Cocais, located in the southeastern state of Minas Gerais, over a risk of a local dam collapse, Trend reported citing Sputnik. According to the G1 media outlet, the increased level of threat means that the dam may collapse at any moment. Civil defence forces were sent to the municipality in order to evacuate people, who remain in a potential disaster zone, in case of such a need. The mining giant Vale, which operates the dam, said that local residents had been evacuated from the area in February when warning sirens on the dam sounded for the first time. The need for such a precaution measure emerged after an independent auditor informed us about the dams instability, the company said. The warning comes after on 25 January, a dam at Vale's Corrego do Feijao mine in the states Brumadinho municipality collapsed, triggering heavy mud floods. The disaster left more than 200 people killed. Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 23 By Rufiz Hafizoglu Trend: Turkey plans to build a domestic car with electric engine, said Mehmet Gurcan Karakas, head of the consortium for the production of domestic cars, Trend reports referring to the Turkish media. According to Karakas, production of domestic cars with an electric engine will begin in Turkey by 2022, noting that the production of domestic cars is a priority for Turkey. Earlier, Turkish Minister of Industry and Technology Mustafa Varank said that the first prototype of the Turkish domestic car will be ready in 2019. Turkeys "Zorlu Holding" company, together with four other companies which are members of the consortium for development of a domestic Turkish car, had previously presented the first prototype of the vehicle. The prototype was developed together with the "Vestel Elektronik" company and was named "VEO". Earlier, former Turkish Minister of Science, Industry and Technology Faruk Ozlu said that Turkey will invest $3 billion in creating a domestic car. Ozlu said work is currently underway to develop prototypes of 5 different models of the domestic car. The minister also noted that one of the cars will be equipped with an electric engine. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday that U.S.-backed forces had dislodged the Islamic State militant group from its last holdout in Syria, Trend reports referring to Reuters. Heres ISIS on Election Day. And heres ISIS right now, Trump said, using the acronym for the group, as he displayed a before-and-after map to reporters, with the before portion full of red dots and the after-map empty. You guys can have the map. Congratulations, Trump said. I think its about time. The president has previously displayed a map illustrating the diminution of Islamic State. Trump has said Islamic State no longer holds territory several times over the past few weeks. But U.S. officials told Reuters that fighting still continued late into Thursday between U.S.-backed forces and Islamic State militants in the last remaining territory it holds. Earlier on Friday, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told reporters Islamic State no longer held any territory in Syria and that U.S. acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan had briefed the president on the milestone as he was traveling to Florida on Air Force One. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) battled Islamic State militants holed up in the Baghouz area overnight, supported by U.S.-led coalition air strikes, the SDF said, seeking to defeat the last pockets of jihadist resistance. The SDF has been battling for weeks to defeat Islamic State in the Baghouz enclave in southeastern Syria at the Iraqi border, all that remained of the territory the militants ruled, which once spanned a third of Syria and Iraq. While the U.S.-backed SDF has captured most of the area, Mustafa Bali, head of the SDF media office, told Reuters SDF fighters were clashing late on Thursday with IS militants in more than two positions where they were refusing to surrender. By Anna Watanabe, KYODO NEWS - Mar 23, 2019 - 15:10 | All, World Members of the Christchurch Muslim community were allowed back into the Al Noor Mosque on Saturday following last week's terror attack after police returned it to the building's caretakers. Representatives of the community were seen gathered around the gates of the mosque, talking with police and carefully looking over hundreds of floral tributes laid out along the mosque's gates. (Photo taken on March 23, 2019 shows one of the tributes left outside the Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch. The image shows Daoud Nabi who allegedly greeted the gunman by saying "Hello, brother," just before he opened fire.) The building is one of two mosques targeted in the March 15 attack, in which alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant opened fire on hundreds of people gathered for midday prayers. In total, 50 people died in the mass shooting -- New Zealand's worst ever terror event -- 42 of whom were from the Al Noor Mosque. Salma Sarik, 29, who traveled to Christchurch from Auckland to support the local community, was one of the many people waiting outside to re-enter the mosque. "This (the mosque being reopened) completed us. This is our place of worship and we will have to go back one day," she said. A friend of Sarik's family, Muhammad Suhail Shahid, was one of the people killed at the mosque. "We will not let that terrorist steal our faith," she said. Community members of the Linwood Mosque, the other building targeted in the attack and located five kilometers away, also returned to their mosque later in the day. The two mosques are not open to the public yet. Police had been working "relentlessly" to prepare both mosques to be handed back to the community in time for Friday prayers, but the process was subsequently delayed. Jordanian royal family member Prince El Hassan bin Talal is scheduled to visit the Al Noor Mosque later in the day to lay a floral tribute. Four Jordanian nationals were killed in the mass shooting, according to local media reports. Earlier on Saturday, thousands of people gathered in Hagley Park, near Christchurch Hospital, for a "March for Love" rally. (Photo taken on March 23, 2019 shows people participating in the "March for Love" rally in Christchurch.) People were encouraged to dress in colorful clothing to show solidarity with the entire city, which continues to grieve after the attack. "You're just so proud of your country and everyone for what's happened," a 57-year-old march participant who gave her name only as Debbie said during an acapella rendition of the New Zealand national anthem. The March for Love gathering was organized by three high school students who had organized the local Christchurch School Strike 4 Climate rally. Young people from across the city were gathered in Hagley Park for the climate change strike at the time the gunman began his attack on the mosques less than two kilometers away. "So much has been broken in our city: our buildings, our roads, and our hearts," said one of the organizers, Manaia Butler, 16. "But having this march, it shows when we unite, how resilient Christchurch can be." London: On Saturday, the media reported that British Airways is launching its shortest flight till date, a 54-mile, 50-minute flight from Bahrain International Airport to Dammam, Saudi Arabia. The return flight will be even quicker, with only 40 minutes spent in the air, CNN quoted the airlines as saying in a statement on Friday. The brief flight succeeds the airline`s current shortest trip: a 62-mile hop between the Caribbean islands of Antigua and Saint Kitts. also read Priest stabbed on Live TV during mass In Canada Church However, the 54-mile flight will not operate as an individual journey. Only passengers travelling to or from London will have access to the Bahrain-Dammam route. The airline statement said "The direct service will now enable seamless travel in eight hours from our home at Heathrow,". "More than half of Saudi Arabia`s oil and gas is produced in this region, so this new link underlines the importance of the Eastern province of the Kingdom and the need for smooth onward connections to Europe and the US." Here it is to be noted that the new service to Dammam is an extension of an existing route from London`s Heathrow Airport to Muharraq, Bahrain. At present, customers disembarking in Bahrain are offered a 90-minute limousine journey to Dammam. From December 1, travelers from London will have the option to continue on the same plane -- a four-class Boeing 777-200 -- to Dammam`s King Fahd International Airport. also read An Indian Truck driver in Canada sentenced to an eight-year imprisonment Twelve workers from Telangana approached the Indian embassy in Iraq after their employer threatened them with guns when they requested him to clear their pending salaries. Worried for their life, the workers told embassy officials that they want to return to India. According to the report, Around 12 people hailing from various regions in Telangana stranded in Iraq after being cheated by an agent who promised to offer jobs. The people are reported to have toiling without food and accommodation in Basra of Baghdad for the past few weeks. The general administration (NRI affairs) department of Telangana government on Friday wrote a letter to the Indian embassy in Iraq and the ministry of external affairs to extend immediate help to the workers, who are also finding it difficult to arrange food and accommodation. also read: Arvind Kejriwal compared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to German dictator Adolf Hitler The employer reportedly sent his son and three others with guns to terrorize the workers. "They came over to our place, behaved rudely, and threatened us with guns," the workers said in a letter to embassy officials. "They point guns at us if we raise the issue of pending salaries," said G Srinivas of Chaitanyapuri, Karimnagar. Rao was doing odd jobs in Nizamabad, and when he was offered a salary of 35,000 in Iraq, he couldn't resist. The workers were reportedly cornered in a small room and threatened several times. The migrants were identified as Ganga Srinivas, Akula Laxman, Chakali Rajeshwar, Hambati Surendar, Patwekar Hanmanth Rao, More Madhukar, Nune Srinivas, Ragi Ramulu, Patwekar Narsingh Rao, Singaram Raju, Paikari Srinivas Rajam, Sunkoju Manohar, Sunke Ramesh, and Dipu Kumar. also read: Rahul Gandhi should consume poison: BJP MLA Bhopal: BJP MLA from Madhya Pradesh's Harda Vidhan Sabha constituency Kamal Patel demanding proof over posters depicting Congress president Rahul Gandhi as a Shiva avatar, he said that Rahul Gandhi should consume poison. Patel's comments came after hoardings and posters presenting the Congress scion as a reincarnation of Lord Shiva came up in the streets of Harda region. Patel said that if Rahul survives after consuming poison like Lord Shiva then he'll believe the posters and even worship him. Patel was saying "Congress always demands proofs. Now, we also want. If Congress thinks Rahul Gandhi is Shiva avatar then they should give him poison. If he will survive like Shiva then he would also worship him,". According to Indian mythology, during the churning of the ocean by the Gods and Asuras, a dangerous poison called Halahala started emanating. It was Lord Shiva who came to save the world and stored the poison in his throat, turning it blue. BJP MLA Kamal Nath evoked the same story to challenge Rahul Gandhi to prove the veracity of the posters. also read Kamal Nath's challenge to contest from the "toughest" seat, Digvijaya Singh contest Bhopal seat Highlighting the loan waiver given by the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Rahul said that the grand old party was the one fulfils the promises made before the elections. Questioning the Chowkidar campaign Rahul asked why it was only used before the elections. Rahul added "Modi only wanted to become Prime Minister and now for the elections' sake he's made everyone a Chowkidar,". Meanwhile, the Congress president launched a scathing attack on PM Modi from Bihar's Purnia. Rahul accused the PM of backtracking on his promises took him on over demonetisation and the recently launched "Main Bhi Chowkidar" campaign. In another development, former Madhya Pradesh chief minister and senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has been fielded from Bhopal parliamentary constituency, where the Congress hasn't been able to win since the last three decades. also read British airway to launch its shortest flight from Bahrain to Dammam This came after the state Chief Minister Kamal Nath said that if the veteran leader wanted to contest then he should do so from the toughest seat. Currently, Bhopal is represented by BJP MP Alok Sanjar who had won with a landslide victory in the last general elections. In 2014, Congress' PC Sharma had contested from the seat but could only garner three lakh votes, 50% less than votes polled by Sanjar. Alexander Vinnik, alleged to have laundered billions of dollars as a bitcoin exchange operator wants to go home. | Source: Shutterstock One of the operators of BTC-e cryptocurrency exchange and leading suspect in multi-billion money laundering scandal, Alexander Vinnik, is seeking to be extradited to Russia from Greece rather than to the United States or France. According to Greek publication Kathimerini, Vinnik filed an appeal with a court in the port city of Piraeus seeking to be released or extradited to his home country. The Russian national who has been on a hunger strike for three months cited humanitarian reasons in his plea. Alexander Vinnik Alexander Vinnik, in frail condition following hunger strike. Photo shown by his lawyers at a press conference in Athens, Greece. | Source: Associated Press Per his lawyers Vinniks life is endangered. Besides claiming that the charges he is facing are unfounded, his lawyers also argue that he has been held for longer than the law allows. Vinnik was arrested nearly two years ago in Greece while on vacation. Alexander Vinnik, the Russian Sought by Elite U.S. Law Enforcement Agencies This was at the behest of U.S. law enforcement agencies including Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN): Disclaimer: These summaries are provided for educational purposes only by Nelson Rosario and Stephen Palley. They are not legal advice.The post Bitcoin miner builds electrical transformer in rented space, lawsuit follows appeared first on The Block. 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 Justin Steffen is JCS [related id=1]Main Mill Street Investments, LLC v. Coinmint, LLC and Ashton Soniat, Case 8:19-cv-00328-FJS-CFH (NY Sup. Ct., Clinton County, March 15, 2019) [NMR] Surprisingly, one area of law that we have not talked about at Crypto Caselaw Minute concerns landlord tenant issues. If youve ever rented an apartment youve signed a lease that lays out the nature of the agreement between you and your landlord. In a residential context this is usually a fairly low risk engagement for everyone involved. I mean, how much trouble can either party get into with respect to your studio apartment? In the commercial context, where a company is renting space for a commercial purpose, things can get dicier. Especially, if your commercial purpose involves, oh I dont know, consuming massive amounts of energy that necessitate you building your own electrical system to power your bitcoin mining operation. Thats one component of this case. Throw in some allegations of breach of contract and your landlord is probably going to sue you. Ashton Soniat is the CEO of a cryptocurrency mining company called Coinmint, LLC. Main Mill Street Investments, LLC (MMSI) is a real estate company that rents office space. On September 16, 2016, Coinmint leased office space in New York in a building owned by MMSI. Subsequently, on September 23, 2016, Soniat signed a personal guaranty that he would guarantee the prompt payment by Coinmint of all rents and other payments under the lease. Allegedly, right after the lease was signed Coinmint started violating the terms of the lease and problems began. Story continues One of the most common criticisms of cryptocurrency mining is the electricity costs involved in Proof of Work mining. It takes a lot of electricity. A lot. As such, one of the things that Coinmint did after leasing their office space was build its own electrical transformer units. Now, if you are going to build something like this you have to alert your landlord, because that is a pretty significant alteration to the premises, and it is probably not covered by your lease. This is what Coinmint (allegedly) did, but (also allegedly) there were many problems associated with the transition to the new electrical system. As noted in multiple exhibits attached to this lawsuit, MMSI alerted Coinmint on more than one occasion that they were in breach of their lease in large part due to construction issues related to all of the electrical changes Coinmint was implementing. Some of the changes were allegedly not approved by MMSI. Another building issue, is that allegedly, snow was coming into Coinmints office space. Additionally, Coinmint was allegedly not paying their rent, and not paying the company that did the electrical work for them to support the mining operation. The latter resulted a mechnics lien being placed on the altered property. Obviously, these issues, allowing snow to regularly come into your unit, not paying your rent, and getting a lien placed on your rented property, are going to upset your landlord. So, what is MMSI suing Coinmint for? Well, breach of contract issues. In particular, breaching the terms of the lease, ie failing to pay their rent, and the other issues. Given the attached exhibits Coinmint will have to present some compelling evidence that there was not damage to their rented office space, that they paid their rent, and that the mechanics lien was not valid, or was paid in full. That sounds like a tall order. 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. On Thursday, President Trump signed an executive order to protect against a electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that has the potential to disrupt, degrade, and damage technology and critical infrastructure systems. The order added that man-made or naturally-occurring EMPs can affect large geographic areas, disrupting elements critical to the Nations security and economic prosperity, and could adversely affect global commerce and stability. The Federal Government must foster sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective approaches to improving the Nations resilience to the effects of EMPs. TJ Gray, a Vietnam veteran and self-sufficienist, recently told us that EMPs are perhaps what worries him most in terms of a catastrophe that society would not be able to handle. Probably one of the greatest logical fears that I would personally have would be either a solar solar flare, which has happened, Gray said. They said the biggest one we've had was ... about 1850, and they said if that solar flare hit today, it would take out virtually every electrical device in America. And that happened, it already happened once set, there wasn't much electricity around then. TJ Gray in his bunker. (Source: Yahoo Finance) Gray, who explained that he served in the Air Force and worked on chemical and biological warfare unit, added that today we've got enemies that could hit us with a high altitude nuclear weapon that would give off an electromagnetic pulse that would fry all the computers in the cars, all of our electronic stuff. Your camera, your toilet. I mean it would knock everything out. It would knock out your water supplies, your fuel supplies. You're grocery stores would be empty within two hours probably. In the 1970s I had one of the largest Preparedness Companies in the USA Gray first showed up on our radar from an internet forum devoted to Preppers in Texas. He was known to be the lead moderator on the site, and other users said he had his own secret bunker somewhere in the Lone Star State. So Yahoo Finance reached out. Story continues A quote from one of our emails: In the 1970s I had one of the largest Preparedness Companies in the USA, and the media loved the negative tern [sic], Survivalist. Designed to make you a weird wacko. I demanded the term Self sufficienist, so as not to fall into their pre planned negative spin. I hope you are self aware enough to understand that this is a common sense approach for those at this stage of their life, to take on this endeavor. After weeks of correspondence via email, he agreed to an interview and would let us film the bunker he built with his family in 1980 after he returned from the war in Vietnam. TJ Gray in his bunker. (Source: Yahoo Finance) However there was a catch. He wouldnt reveal the location. Gray said if we met him in person we could get in his car, and hed drive us to the undisclosed location of his hidden bunker. So, at 1pm on a Wednesday in February we met Gray outside a closed bar in Dallas, TX. He pulled up in a 1999 Toyota Camry, rolled down the window, and said, You look like a bunch of Yahoos to me. We hopped in Grays car and headed out of Dallas, traversing access roads for about two dozen miles before reaching a long gravel road. What really affected my future thinking The bunker is larger than you might expect, about 20,000 square feet according to Gray. The structure is half above ground, half below ground reminiscent of those eco-friendly houses that were briefly popular in California during the 70s. I built it with my first wife and kids, Gray said. I wanted it to be something that was around long after I was gone. When pressed for a number, he estimates it will stand for at least 200 years. If thats true, the bunker will most likely outlive his children too. TJ Gray's bunker from the outside. (Source: Yahoo Finance) All of them are grown now and have families, but some of them have also developed the self-sufficient mindset as theyve gotten older, he said about his kids. The utilities have long been turned off in his bunker: Theres currently neither running water nor electricity. And no, there is no cellphone service either. Gray has lived in town for the last few decades. But back in his bunker and near what can only be described as a shipping box full of 1,000,000-volt stun guns he began to open up. The chemical-biological warfare position [in the Air Force] was what really affected my future thinking. Gray said. He said he visit a handful times a year nowadays. One of Grays biggest fears is not nuclear bombs but large electromagnetic pulses or solar flares. They say the biggest flare weve had was in 1850 if that solar flare hit today it would take out virtually every electrical device in America, says Gray. I mean it would knock everything out, he said. It would take out your water supplies, your fuel supplies, your grocery stores would be empty in two hours probably A space beneath the floor of the bunker that Gray did not want to discuss (Source: Yahoo Finance) $5,000 would be a minimum What if one person wanted to prepare themselves as effectively as possible for at least one year? Gray says, I would think $5,000 would be a minimum, he said. If you put away food and bought long-term storage food that was nitrogen-packed, the cost is going to be higher but more secure. Ive probably spent $130,000 in the 1980 terms. Thats around $400,000 in 2019. Gray worries less day-to-day about his grown children. In fact, hes now debating whether or not to sell the bunker. He said he brought a property appraiser to view it in 2017 and the person estimated that the property was worth about $600,000. TJ Gray in his bunker. (Source: Yahoo Finance) In any case, Gray currently lives in his local town and keeps the bunker. After our bunker tour, we got dropped back off at the bar by Gray and called an Uber back to the hotel. Its a wonderful new technology, Uber and as pointed out by Gray earlier in the day one solar flare away from vanishing. WATCH MORE: Fitness apps are solving the biggest problem with going to the gym Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, LinkedIn, YouTube, and reddit. The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), the labor-oriented, social democratic political organization, is backing Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders in his 2020 run for president. The DSAs National Political Committee leadership team announced its support for Sanders late Thursday. Were building a mass movement to take on the billionaires and win a society that puts people over profit, DSA tweeted. Democratic Socialists of America is proud to endorse Sen. Bernie Sanders for president! ???? Were building a mass movement to take on the billionaires and win a society that puts people over profit. Join us https://t.co/Gsy5Ij2G2K pic.twitter.com/66DHY9hqyk DSA ???? (@DemSocialists) March 22, 2019 During his 2016 primary campaign, Sanders declared himself a democratic socialist and said it is imperative to create a government that works for all and not just the few. He added that the U.S. government should not own the means of production. The DSA has seen a surge in membership since then, from 6,100 members to 56,000 members today. The organization endorsed Sanders in 2016 and more recently backed Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib in their runs for Congress in the 2018 midterms. In a press release, DSA called Sanders the only socialist in American history with a serious chance of winning the presidency. Bernie Sanders is part of an incredible revival of resistance to billionaires and their corporations, said DSA National Director Maria Svart, who added that Sanders will need the support of a long-term massive, multi-racial working-class movement. The Vermont Senator raised $5.9 million from more than 223,000 donors in the first 24 hours after announcing his presidential bid on Feb. 19. Sanders has put forth a progressive campaign platform, supportive of Medicare for All, a $15 federal minimum wage, and has endorsed a version of Ocasio-Cortezs Green New Deal. Jeremy Gong, a member of the DSAs National Political Committee told The Guardian that Sanders is the candidate with the best chance of defeating President Trump in 2020. Specifically because he has a working-class political agenda, as opposed to an elite, or moderate, or corporate-friendly agenda that is not exciting to anyone electorally except a very small number of either Democratic party diehards or upper middle class or wealthy people, said Gong. Don't expect France to hop on the crypto train anytime soon. | Source: Shutterstock Frances central bank wont issue its own digital currency anytime soon because doing so would be a complex undertaking that could hurt the countrys flailing economy. Thats the assessment of Pauline Adam Kalfon, a blockchain and cryptocurrency partner at PwC France. Pauline Kalfon: Bitcoin is Great, But Cool Your Heels Kalfon admits theres growing interest in bitcoin and blockchain in France. However, she warned against unchecked over-exuberance, saying the virtual currency economy needs to be battle-tested to ensure that investors are protected from scams, Forbes reported. Frances central bank may not be the best entity to drive forward such a digital currency project, which would sit within the prerogatives of the European Central Bank. Having said this, Banque de France could seize technological leadership by following European Central Bank guidance. It is clear that a European-level project would be very complex and challenging governance-wise, requiring alignment and the political consensus of all relevant stakeholders from each Member State. Crypto Should Be Battle-Tested By Corporations Pauline Adam Kalfon bitcoin Pauline Adam Kalfon (Source: PwC) Read the full story on CCN.com. General Motors will invest $300 million and add 400 jobs to build a new electric vehicle at its Orion Assembly Plant in Michigan. GM has pledged to spend $1.8 billion on manufacturing in the U.S., and create 700 new jobs. General Motors GM is making a $300 million investment at its Orion Assembly Plant in Michigan and adding 400 jobs to build a new electric vehicle, the automaker said Friday. The investment is a portion of the $1.8 billion GM pledged to spend on manufacturing in the U.S., which will create 700 new jobs and support a further 28,000 jobs across six states, the company said. "It makes sense because the Chevrolet Bolt EV is built at Orion and this is a great workforce," GM CEO Mary Barra told CNBC. "So there is capacity here to be able to do that and there are synergies as well." The new vehicle, which will bear GM's Chevrolet brand, will come out "in a year or two," Barra said on " Squawk on the Street ." "We haven't released the specific date yet," Barra said. "There will be a lot more to follow on the specifics of the product. Today we are really focused on the workforce at Lake Orion." GM had originally intended to build the new vehicle outside the U.S. The automaker said it moved production back because the new vehicle will be based on an advanced version of the platform used in the current Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicle, which the Orion plant currently builds. In addition, moving production to the U.S. "supports the rules of origin provisions in the proposed United States, Mexico and Canada Agreement," the company said. "The great workforce at Lake Orion understands that today's announcement will provide over 400 new jobs for a General Motors product of the future built by UAW Local 5960 members for years to come right here in Michigan," said Terry Dittes, who is vice president at the United Auto Workers union and oversees its negotiations with GM. "Today's GM commitment of $300 million to build this electric vehicle, with our UAW members, is a good start on GM's investment toward keeping future manufacturing jobs here in America." Story continues GM said late last year it planned to shut down five plants in North America and cut 14,000 jobs as it restructures its business to improve profitability. The move to close the company's plant in Lordstown, Ohio, prompted criticism from President Donald Trump. Barra did not comment directly on Trump's criticism. "We regularly brief the administration when we are going to be making announcements such as this, and so that is where I'll leave it," Barra said. GM is "committed to investing," she added, and the company has been making shifts because it sees the growth in segments such as trucks, crossovers, and increasingly in electric vehicles. Correction: This story has been updated to reflect the correct amount of the investment and the number of jobs added. More From CNBC The United States on Friday imposed new sanctions on Iran. The sanctions targeted 14 individuals and 17 entities that have connections with Irans Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research. American Islamic Forum for Democracy president Dr. Zuhdi Jasser told FOX Business The Evening Edit that the state of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran is on the verge of losing control of its own people. You see the human rights abuses, the torture happening even based on human rights watch reports. Theyre showing they ramped it up because they are spiraling not only economically, but theyre losing control of their population. According to Amnesty International, Iran is one of the top countries in violation of human rights and abuse.Thanks to the re-imposing of sanctions, they are beginning to feel the pressure and the revolution has gained steam, Jasser said. 2020 presidential hopefuls Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mas.), and Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) have all said that they would support re-entering the Iran Nuclear Deal that was formed under former President Obama. When asked to react to the Democrats view on the Iran Nuclear Deal, Jasser responded, Theyre not paying attention to it because theyre letting the radical part of their party drive them and because of social media platforms. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX BUSINESS APP He went on to forecast the fate of the Middle East by saying, I think the only future for those who believe in democracy in the middle and those who care about human rights is the hope for the revolution to continue to succeed. I promise you without the sanctions back in place the revolution would have been dead as it was dying under the Obama administration. Related Articles ROME, March 23 (Reuters) - Italy signed deals worth 2.5 billion euros ($2.8 billion) during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Rome, Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio said on Saturday, adding that the value of the contracts could rise to 20 billion. Earlier, Di Maio inked a preliminary deal making Italy the first major wealthy Western nation to endorse China's ambitious "Belt and Road" infrastructure project despite worries amongst key allies that this could undermine Western interests. Di Maio told reporters the government remained committed to its Western partners but said it had to put "Italy first". ($1 = 0.8840 euros) (Reporting by Giselda Vagnoni; Editing by Crispian Balmer) GREELEY, Colo., March 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pilgrims Pride Corporation (PPC), a worldwide leader in poultry and prepared foods, today announced that its Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Jayson Penn, current President of Pilgrims USA, to succeed Bill Lovette, who is retiring from the position of President and Chief Executive Officer of Pilgrims Pride. Lovette will remain available to provide strategic advisory services to the company through July 2020. Jayson Penn has enjoyed a distinguished career in the poultry industry and has played an integral role in the success of Pilgrims over the last eight years, said Gilberto Tomazoni, Chairman of the Board of Directors. Since joining the company in March 2011, Jayson has exemplified the leadership qualities, passion to succeed and business acumen that make him the ideal candidate to assume this role. The Boards decision is further validation of the Pilgrims strategy, implemented in 2012, to create a unique, diversified portfolio across multiple geographies, with a focus on key customers and operational excellence, to generate more consistent and higher margins. Jayson has been at the forefront of this strategy and we are confident in his ability to continue to create shareholder value. The Board is extremely grateful for Bills leadership, vision, dedication and commitment, Tomazoni said. His legacy at Pilgrims will endure through the strong management team and unique business platform he developed, which will position the company for continued growth and success. Lovette was appointed President and CEO by the Board of Directors in January 2011 and, during his tenure, led a period of unprecedented value creation for the company and its shareholders, growing the business from $6.9 billion to $10.9 billion in annual net revenue. Over the last eight years, Lovette helped establish Pilgrims as a leading global food company by building a diversified portfolio of brands and on-trend products, extending the companys footprint to the UK and Europe, significantly expanding its presence in Mexico, investing in operations and increasing margins and bottom-line profitability by partnering with key customers to create shared success. Story continues I appreciate the commitment and support from our team throughout this eight-year transformational journey to create the company Pilgrims is today, said Bill Lovette. Jayson has been instrumental in building our strong culture and we back him with our full support. Penn will assume the position of President and CEO immediately. I am humbled that the Board has given me the opportunity to serve as Pilgrims CEO, Penn said. Pilgrims has been on a remarkable journey of growth, building a strong culture of empowerment and providing our customers and consumers with high quality, innovative solutions that allow them to thrive. We are a global team of more than 52,000, unified in mission and purpose, and I am excited to help guide our team in the next steps of our journey. I am extremely grateful to Bill for his mentorship, counsel and friendship, Penn added. Working alongside Bill for these last eight years at Pilgrims has been the highlight of my career and his constant support, leadership by example and strong work ethic have made this seamless transition possible. Penn, an accomplished executive with more than 30 years of experience, grew up in the poultry industry, beginning in his familys poultry company. He joined Pilgrims in March 2011 and has served as Senior Vice President of the Commercial Business Group, Executive Vice President of Sales and Operations and, most recently, as President of Pilgrims USA. Prior to Pilgrims, Penn served in management positions at several leading poultry companies. He has also served on the board of directors and the executive committee of the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council and currently serves on the board and executive committee of the National Chicken Council and the board of directors of The World Poultry Foundation. He is a graduate of Florida State University in Tallahassee, Fla., and the Advanced Management Program at the Harvard Business School in Cambridge, Mass. About Pilgrims Pride Pilgrims employs approximately 52,100 people and operates chicken processing plants and prepared-foods facilities in 14 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, the U.K, and continental Europe. The Companys primary distribution is through retailers and foodservice distributors. For more information, please visit www.pilgrims.com . Media Contacts: Cameron Bruett 202-445-6168 cameron.bruett@jbssa.com President Donald Trump, right, meets with Caribbean leaders at Mar-A Lago, Friday, March 22, 2019, in Palm Beach, Fla. From left are Saint Lucia's Prime Minister Allen Michael Chastanet, Haiti President Jovenel Moise,Dominican Republic President Danilo Medina, Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Bahama Prime Minister Hubert Minnis. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) The Latest on President Donald Trump's meeting with leaders from the Caribbean (all times local): 3:45 p.m. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders says President Donald Trump is committed to preventing President Nicolas Maduro and his regime from stealing Venezuela's resources for personal gain. Sanders' statement comes after the Trump administration sanctioned a major Venezuelan bank and four subsidiary banks. Sanders says Maduro and his regime are using the banks as slush funds to evade United States sanctions and to move money out of Venezuela. The sanctions were announced by the Treasury Department after the arrest Thursday in Caracas of an aide to opposition leader Juan Guaido. The U.S. views Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. Sanders says the U.S. will continue to take steps to pressure Maduro and his regime until they step out of the way and allow a democratic transition to occur under Guaido. ___ 2:40 p.m. The U.S. Treasury Department says it has sanctioned BANDES, Venezuela's national development bank, and four additional subsidiaries that BANDES owns or controls. The department says the sanctions are in response to the illegal arrest of Roberto Marrero, chief of staff to opposition leader Juan Guaido. It's the latest salvo in the battle for power between in Venezuela between President Nicolas Maduro and Guaido. Treasury made the announcement while the president was meeting Friday with leaders from five Caribbean nations. The U.S. had already sanctioned scores of top Venezuelan officials and has blocked U.S. banks from doing business with Venezuela, putting a financial strangle-hold on the cash-strapped country. ___ 12:10 a.m. The political and economic crisis in Venezuela tops the agenda of President Donald Trump's meeting Friday with leaders from the Caribbean, a region that has been far from united in joining the U.S. call for the ouster of President Nicolas Maduro. Trump is hosting leaders of Jamaica, Bahamas, Haiti, Dominican Republic and St. Lucia at his affluent Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida to show his support for Caribbean countries that back democratic transition in Venezuela. The five have either denounced Maduro, or have joined more than 50 countries in recognizing Juan Guaido as the interim leader. The crisis has put some Caribbean nations in a tough spot. For years, Venezuela has provided then with a reliable supply of oil on low-credit terms, leaving them indebted to Caracas. Oh, brewers of Bud Light: you are hereby served notice that you are sued by the Miller Coors kingdom over the medieval corn syrup ads. What Happened MillerCoors, a subsidiary of Molson Coors Brewing Co. (NYSE: TAP), didnt find the Bud Light ads about the use of corn syrup in the brewing process as funny as many viewers did and sued Bud Light brewer Anheuser Busch Inbev NV (NYSE: BUD) Thursday, alleging the ad campaign is false and misleading. The suit, filed in federal court in Wisconsin, said the Bud Light ads are false because they imply Miller and Coors beer drinkers are consuming corn syrup. Corn syrup is used in the fermentation process and is turned into alcohol during brewing, so no corn syrup is actually present in the final product. AB, which makes and sells Bud Light beer, has publicly explained that it designed, tested and launched a false and misleading advertising campaign targeting Miller Lite and Coors Light in order to deceive beer consumers into believing that there is corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup in Miller Lite and Coors Light to increase sales of Bud Light," Miller said in its complaint. The suit alleges AB singled out MillerCoors for using what is in fact a commonly used item in the brewing process "for a deliberate and nefarious purpose." AB, the suit said, knew full well that many consumers don't like high-fructose corn syrup and knew that "consumers do not understand the difference between ordinary corn syrup (used by numerous brewers, including AB itself) and high fructose corn syrup, the controversial sweetener commonly used in soft drinks." MillerCoors is seeking montetary damages under federal false advertising laws and asking a judge to block the ads from airing. Bud Responds AB Inbev responded with a statement that the ads are true, merely pointing out that corn syrup isn't used in the Bud Light brewing process while it is used to brew Miller Lite and Coors Light. "These are facts," Anheuser-Busch Vice President of Communications Gemma Hart said in a statement. "MillerCoors has admitted to using corn syrup on its website, in social media, in a full-page ad thanking Bud Light following the Super Bowl, and even in the lawsuit itself. Story continues "MillerCoors lawsuit is baseless and will not deter Bud Light from providing consumers with the transparency they demand," Hart's statement continued. "We stand behind the Bud Light transparency campaign and have no plans to change the advertising." MillerCoors launched its own ads this week aimed at hitting back at Bud on TV. The ads purport to show the actors in Bud Light's medieval themed ads leaving the set and drinking Miller Lite. The point? Bud Light might be better in the TV world, but in the real world, people prefer Miller beers, Anup Shah, vice president of Miller brands, said in a blog post. Price Action Anheuser Busch shares were down 2.24 percent at $82.04 at the time of publication Friday, while Molson Coors shares were down 1.13 percent at $60.12. Related Links: Battle Lines Drawn Over Corn In Beer After Super Bowl Ads Molson Coors On Track To Outperform Beer Peers, Susquehanna Says See more from Benzinga 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. By Fabian Cambero SANTIAGO, March 22 (Reuters) - Chile's Antofagasta expects to reach an agreement with miner BHP to help ensure water supply at its Zalidvar copper mine in the country's northern desert, a company official told a Chilean newspaper on Friday. Antofagasta needs access to water for the future development of its Zaldivar copper deposit, which is near BHP's Escondida mine, the world's largest copper mine. Zaldivar's size, however, does not justify investing in its own desalination plant to bring water in from the Pacific ocean, Antofagasta has said. Both companies are seeking to extend existing permits to draw water from Chile's water-constrained Salar de Atacama, home to top lithium producers SQM and Albemarle. Chilean regulators last year implemented new restrictions on the salt flat amid concerns of dwindling water supplies . "We are worried and working on that in conjunction with BHP. I think we are going to come up with a good solution. There is a range of options and the decision has to be win-win," Alfredo Atucha, vice president of administration and finance for Antofagasta, said to Chilean daily La Tercera. "We have been negotiating for three or four months and we are nearing the end of that, I am hopeful that we will reach a good agreement," he added. The executive did not specify the potential options, though La Tercera cited sources saying that Escondida could sell water from its desalination plant to Antofagasta. Zaldivar is a joint project by Antofagasta and Barrick . In 2018, Zaldivar presented a study to Chile's environmental regulator with the aim of extending its operations until 2031, which will involve an investment of about $100 million in order to maintain its current production capacity. (Reporting by Fabian Cambero; writing by Cassandra Garrison Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) By Kane Wu and Anshuman Daga HONG KONG/SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Murphy Oil Corp is nearing a deal to sell its Malaysian oil and gas assets to Thailand's PTTEP PCL, people familiar with the matter said, in the latest energy M&A transaction in the Southeast Asian nation. The independent U.S. oil and gas exploration and production company could announce a deal, valued at just over $2 billion, with the Thai energy company as early as Thursday, said one source, who declined to be identified as the news is not public. Reuters reported in November, citing sources, that Murphy Oil was in talks to sell the assets after an unsolicited bid that could fetch between $2 billion to $3 billion. Murphy, which has been in Malaysia for two decades, could not be reached outside regular U.S. business hours. There was no immediate response from PTTEP to a Reuters query. Murphy had tapped banks for the potential sale of its majority interests in eight separate offshore production sharing contracts in Malaysia, sources had said. Others familiar with the matter had suggested Spanish oil major Repsol, whose presence in Malaysia is focused on its upstream business, or other global majors could be potential buyers for Murphy's assets. The potential transaction between Murphy and PTTEP comes as M&A activity is heating up in Malaysia's oil and gas sector, where international companies pursuing expansion plans are spotting opportunities.In September, Austrian oil and gas company OMV agreed on a joint venture with Sapura Energy Bhd, paying $540 million for a 50 percent stake in the exploration assets of the Malaysian firm. In August, citing sources, Reuters reported that U.S. company Hess Corp's Southeast Asian offshore natural gas assets had attracted bid interest from PTTEP and OMV. Hess later said it had no plans to sell its Southeast Asian assets.Malaysian state-owned Petronas partners Murphy in Malaysia. People familiar with Murphy's business had said the company could use the sale proceeds to fund its global expansion plans. In September 2014, Murphy announced the sale of a 30 percent stake in its Malaysian assets to Indonesian state oil company Pertamina for $2 billion as it cut its overseas holdings. (Reporting by Kane Wu in HONG KONG and Anshuman Daga in SINGAPORE; Additional reporting by Chayut Setboonsarng in BANGKOK; Editing by Sumeet Chatterjee and Tom Hogue) PORTLAND, Ore., March 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NW Natural Water Company, LLC (NW Natural Water), a subsidiary of Northwest Natural Holding Company (NWN) (NW Natural Holdings), has signed agreements through its subsidiaries to acquire six water utility systems and one water and wastewater management company, together serving nearly 1,200 water distribution connections and managing another 1,000 water and wastewater customers. The acquisitions include the water systems of Spirit Lake East, Lynnwood, Diamond Bar Estates, and Bar Circle S, as well as Water Works Management, all located in or around Coeur dAlene, Idaho. In addition, agreements have been signed to acquire the water systems of Estates and Monterra in Sequim, Washington. In this latest round of purchase agreements, were acquiring well-managed, well-positioned water systems in strategic locations with key expertise, said David H. Anderson, NW Natural Holdings president and CEO. Coeur d'Alene is ranked the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the fastest-growing state, and the Sequim acquisitions build on our existing footprint in Washingtons Puget Sound region. Were excited to serve these communities and look forward to providing them safe, reliable and affordable service, just like we do every day for our other natural gas and water utility customers. The transactions are subject to certain conditions, including approval by the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission and the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, and are expected to close in the summer of 2019. ABOUT NW NATURAL HOLDINGS Northwest Natural Holding Company, (NWN) (NW Natural Holdings), is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and through its subsidiaries has been doing business for 160 years in the Pacific Northwest. It owns NW Natural Gas Company (NW Natural), NW Natural Water Company (NW Natural Water), and other business interests and activities. NW Natural currently provides natural gas service to approximately two million people in more than 140 communities through more than 750,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington with one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation. NW Natural consistently leads the industry with high J.D. Power & Associates customer satisfaction scores. Story continues NW Natural is currently constructing a 2.5 Bcf regulated gas storage expansion of its 16 Bcf facility in Oregon to support renewables. NW Holdings subsidiaries own and operate 31 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity. NW Water currently provides water distribution service to approximately 22,000 people through 7,400 connections. To date, NW Water has acquired four water distribution systems with additional acquisitions pending. Upon closing all outstanding transactions, cumulatively, NW Water will serve approximately 45,000 people through about 18,000 connections in the Pacific Northwest with total investments of nearly $70 million. Additional information is available at nwnaturalholdings.com. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This report, and other presentations made by NW Natural Holdings from time to time, may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "seeks," "believes," "estimates," "expects" and similar references to future periods. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the following: plans, objectives, goals, strategies, assumptions, estimates, expectations, expenses, future events, investments, customer growth, the likelihood, timing, and success associated with any transaction, financial results, accretion or financial projections, strategic fit, financial position, revenues and earnings, performance, timing or effects of future regulatory proceedings or future regulatory approvals, and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. We caution you therefore against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are discussed by reference to the factors described in Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors," and Part II, Item 7 and Item 7A "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk" in Northwest Natural Gas Companys most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as updated by subsequent filed reports, and in Part I, Items 2 and 3 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk," and Part II, Item 1A, "Risk Factors," in such company's quarterly reports filed thereafter. All forward-looking statements made in this report and all subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral and whether made by or on behalf of NW Natural Holdings, are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for the company to predict all such factors, nor can it assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Investor Contact: Nikki Sparley, 503-721-2530, nikki.sparley@nwnatural.com Media Contact: Melissa Moore, 503-220-2436, melissa.moore@nwnatural.com Russian President Vladimir Putin bragged that a new nuclear-powered missile had unlimited range, but it has yet to perform a successful test and is too expensive for the Kremlin to develop, according to sources with direct knowledge of a U.S. intelligence report. One U.S. intelligence report assesses that the Burevestnik missile will not be combat-ready for another decade, despite Putin's claim that the "invincible" weapon has a proven capability. Currently, the United States does not have a defense against hypersonic weapons, which can travel at least five times the speed of sound, or about one mile per second. WASHINGTON Russian President Vladimir Putin bragged a year ago that his country had a new nuclear-powered missile with unlimited range . But the Kremlin will only produce a few of them because the weapon has yet to complete a successful test and is too expensive to develop, according to sources with direct knowledge of a U.S. intelligence report on the weapons program. Russia's cruise missile Burevestnik, referred to as "Skyfall" in American intelligence reports, was tested once earlier this year. Prior to that, the weapon was tested four times between November and February in 2018, each resulting in a crash, according to sources who spoke to CNBC on the condition of anonymity. The U.S. assessed that the longest test flight lasted just more than two minutes, with the missile flying 22 miles before losing control and crashing. The shortest test lasted four seconds and flew for five miles. The tests showed that the nuclear-powered heart of the cruise missile failed to initiate and, therefore, the weapon was unable to achieve the indefinite flight Putin had boasted about. The weapon, which has been in development since the early 2000s, is believed to use a gasoline-powered engine for takeoff before switching to a nuclear-powered one for flight, sources explained. One U.S. intelligence report assesses that the Burevestnik will not be combat-ready for another decade, despite Putin's claim that the "invincible" weapon has a proven capability. Story continues Putin's push to develop weapons of this caliber has sparked concerns of a budding arms race among China, the U.S. and Russia. What's more, the latest revelations come a little more than a year after the Russian leader touted his nation's growing hypersonic arsenal . Of the six new weapons Putin unveiled last March, CNBC learned that two of them, a hypersonic glide vehicle and air-launched cruise missile, will be ready for war by 2020 . The hypersonic glide vehicle, dubbed Avangard, is designed to sit atop an intercontinental ballistic missile. Once launched, it uses aerodynamic forces to sail on top of the atmosphere. One U.S. intelligence report, according to a source, noted that the hypersonic glide vehicles were mounted to Russian-made SS-19 intercontinental ballistic missiles and one test featured a mock warhead. Previous intelligence reports, which were curated last spring, calculate that Avangard is likely to achieve initial operational capability by 2020, a significant step that would enable the Kremlin to surpass the U.S. and China in this regard. The hypersonic cruise missile dubbed "Kinzhal," which means "dagger" in Russian, has been tested at least three times and was mounted and launched 12 times from a Russian MiG-31 fighter jet. Additionally, work is underway to mount the weapon on a strategic bomber. On Thursday, CNBC reported that nearly 20 of these Russian missiles were recently moved to a military testing site , signaling another milestone for the Kremlin's hypersonic weapons program. Currently, the United States does not have a defense against hypersonic weapons, which can travel at least five times the speed of sound, or about one mile per second. More From CNBC AV Cabinetry, in Sioux Falls, SD, have announced they can provide local customers with custom and semi custom kitchen cabinet design and installation. The company are known for their excellent service and customer satisfaction. SIOUX FALLS, SD / ACCESSWIRE / March 23, 2019 / AV Cabinetry LLC have announced they can provide local customers around Sioux Falls, SD, with custom and semi-custom kitchen cabinet design. The South Dakota cabinet makers are known for their high quality service and always work hard to get customers the best results. For more information please visit the website here: https://avcabinetry.com. AV Cabinetry is a veteran owned company with a special emphasis on the highest quality products, design and installation. Customers can get in touch knowing their vision and projects goals will be completed on time and to the highest specifications. Whether customers are looking to remodel their kitchen, bathroom, or even add cabinets to their mud or laundry room, the team at AV Cabinetry can cover all their customers' cabinet needs. Among the features provided, customers can benefit from solid wood designs that will last them for years to come. Each installation comes with a five year warranty for added peace of mind, and there is a lifetime warranty on door hinges and drawer tracks. Custom cabinet designs can be created, and dovetail joints, face frames and support rails are available. Customers can also get soft-close hinges and tracks, which are available on most models. Some of the custom options available include tilt outs, drawer inserts, pull outs, cutlery drawers, stemwear racks, roll outs, trash cans and mill work. There are a number of reasons homeowners like to remodel their kitchen and add new kitchen cabinets, including enhancing functionality and lowering energy costs. It can also improve the look and feel of the home with a modern and up to date appearance. Getting new, modern installations can also help to improve the safety of the kitchen, while adding to property value, comfort and appeal. Story continues Anyone in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area looking to transform their home with a new installation or new cabinets can get in touch with AV Cabinetry LLC for all their project needs. Those wishing to find out more can visit their website or their Google Business site: https://avcabinetryllc.business.site. Contact Info: Name: James Kennedy Email: Send Email Organization: AV Cabinetry LLC Address: 47001 Mona Street #2, Tea, SD 57064, United States Phone: +1-605-777-0100 Website: https://avcabinetry.com SOURCE: AV Cabinetry View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/539893/Sioux-Falls-Kitchen-Cabinets-Custom-Design-Service-Announced-By-AV-Cabinetry-LLC New Braunfels, TX (78130) Today Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low around 35F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low around 35F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. By Geoffrey Smith Investing.com -- Europes stock markets are tumbling Friday morning after a shockingly weak survey from the German manufacturing sector increased suspicions that the euro zones slowdown could be deeper and longer than first thought. IHS Markits flash purchasing managers index for Germany fell to 44.7 in March, its lowest in six and a half years and dashing hopes for a modest bounce after Februarys reading of 47.6. The comparable figure for France, released earlier, had also fallen more sharply than expected to 49.8, below the 50 level that signals no change in activity. The flash reading for the euro zone fell to 47.6, well below expectations of 49.8. As such, the euro zones manufacturing sector appears to have contracted in the first quarter, eking out only a small gain in January and shrinking in both of the following months. At 05:00 AM ET (09:00 GMT), the benchmark Stoxx 600 was down 1.80 points or 0.5% at 378.90, while Germanys Dax was down 0.6%, the French CAC 40 and the FTSE 100 were both down 0.8%. The numbers come at a bad time for sentiment, after Thursdays EU summit greatly increased the risk of a disorderly Brexit despite pushing back the March 29 deadline by two weeks. The brief extension still allows little time for the U.K. parliament to formulate an alternative course of action if as is still likely Prime Minister Theresa May fails to win approval for her Withdrawal Agreement. Among individual stocks, Deutsche Bank (DE:DBKGn) had stood out before the PMIs with a trading update that forecast its first rise in revenue in years. However, it reversed after the data to be up only 0.7%. The only other outperformers of note were again chipmakers, supported by the rally in U.S. tech stocks on Friday. Infineon (DE:IFXGn) was up 0.3%, while STMicroelectronics (PA:STM) was up 0.1% and U.K.-based software company Micro Focus (LON:MCRO) was up 1.4% Related Articles Swiss financial watchdog finds $90 million initial coin offering illegal Southwest trims first quarter outlook after 737 Max groundings Health insurer Centene to buy smaller rival WellCare for $15.27 billion * CEO says report gives assurance over AML procedures * Top two Swedbank shareholders back CEO, board * But two top 5 Swedbank investors say not satisfied * Swedbank shares down by more than 1 pct (Adds findings from Norwegian FSA's annual report) By Johan Ahlander and Esha Vaish STOCKHOLM, March 22 (Reuters) - Swedbank's board backed chief executive Birgitte Bonnesen on Friday as some investors questioned a heavily redacted external report into allegations of money laundering through its Baltic branches. Forensic Risk Alliance's (FRA) widely-anticipated report, which has large sections blacked out, said it had identified a number of previously named clients that a media report said should have raised red-flags at Swedbank over potential money-laundering risks. Several banks have been dragged into a scandal at Danske Bank, whose Estonian branch was used for 200 billion euros ($227 billion) of suspicious payments between 2007 and 2015, knocking their shares and fuelling investor fears. The Swedbank report came as Norway's Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA) said that several banks operating in the country, which it did not name, had made insufficient anti-money laundering risk assessments last year. Swedbank's CEO Bonnesen said the FRA's report showed that bank's systems and processes had worked, but its shares, which have lost around 15 percent since the allegations were published in February, dropped by 1 percent. "The important thing is that we feel secure in the way we have worked with this issue in the relation to the possible 50 clients," Bonnesen told Reuters. Swedbank Chairman Lars Idermark said the board continued to back Bonnesen, who was chief audit executive at Swedbank between 2009 and 2011, a job which included overseeing the bank's anti-money laundering policy. Bonnesen then moved on to run the lender's Baltic operations until 2014. But major shareholders in Swedbank, which is the subject of a joint inquiry by the Swedish, Latvian, Estonian and Lithuanian financial watchdogs, were not satisfied by the report. AMF Pension, Swedbank's fifth largest shareholder with 4.8 percent of shares, said it had expected more and that more information was needed to restore confidence in the bank. Story continues "We will therefore continue to work for more transparency and openness, thereby increasing confidence in the bank, and for answering remaining question," AMF said in a statement. Alecta, Swedbank's third-largest investor with close to 5 percent of its shares, called for more clarity and said a more thorough evaluation is needed to restore trust in the bank. "Neither the report presented ... nor the proposed continuation live up to our expectations," its said. The report was also criticised by Bill Browder, an investor who campaigns to expose corruption and has filed a criminal complaint with Swedish authorities over Swedbank's alleged link to money laundering through the Baltics. "This doesn't give us any clearer picture how big the money laundering problem was, who knew about it inside Swedbank, when they knew it and what they did about it," Browder said. FRA said Swedbank had searched its own systems for its report and that it had not been provided with an internal report on anti-money laundering procedures. DEEPER REVIEW Swedish Television reported allegations last month that 50 clients transferred at least 40 billion Swedish crowns ($4.3 billion) between Baltics accounts at Swedbank and Danske Bank between 2007 and 2015. Swedbank said on Friday it would continue to strengthen its anti money-laundering capabilities, adding that it had flagged some 3,800 suspicious transactions to local authorities in the Baltics in 2017 and 2018, while business dealings with 886 non-resident customers had been terminated in the region. Sweden's financial watchdog said the FRA report would be included in its probe and that it could not comment further on the matter, while Swedbank's board said it would conduct a deeper review in cooperation with "relevant authorities", without giving details. And the bank's two biggest shareholder, the Savings Banks' Owners Association which has a 10.5 percent stake, and Folksam, which has an about 7 percent stake, expressed confidence in the board and the CEO after seeing the report. "The bank has assured us that they have complied with applicable regulations and reported suspicious transactions to authorities in all countries concerned," Lennart Haglund, chairman of association and head of Swedbank's nomination committee, said in a statement. Investment bank Keefe, Bruyette & Woods said in a note to clients that it was positive that no "smoking gun" was found in the initial investigation but that "considerable further work will be required to clarify the situation comprehensively." (Additional reporting by Johannes Hellstrom, Writing by Johan Ahlander and Simon Johnson; editing by Gwladys Fouche and Alexander Smith) LUXEMBOURG, March 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tenaris S.A. (NYSE, Buenos Aires and Mexico: TS and MTA Italy: TEN) announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire from PAO TMK, a Russian company and manufacturer of steel pipe, 100% of the shares of its wholly owned U.S. subsidiary IPSCO Tubulars, Inc., for US$1,209 million, on a cash-free, debt-free basis, which includes US$270 million of working capital. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals, including approval by the U.S. antitrust authorities, and other customary conditions. IPSCO Tubulars is a U.S. domestic producer of seamless and welded OCTG and line pipe products, with an annual production capacity of 450,000 metric tons of steel bars, 400,000 metric tons of seamless pipe and 1,000,000 metric tons of welded pipe, and production facilities spread throughout the country. The acquisition would enhance Tenariss position and local manufacturing presence in the U.S. market, extending its product offering and expanding its service footprint. It would add a first U.S. steel bar production facility at Koppel, PA, complement its seamless production in Bay City, TX with a second facility in Ambridge, PA, and bring additional welded, heat treatment and finishing facilities to better serve customers throughout the country. Paolo Rocca, Chairman and CEO of Tenaris, commented: Over the past 15 years, we have been expanding our manufacturing presence and positioning in the U.S. market. This acquisition would mark a further step in our journey as a domestic producer and supplier to the U.S. oil and gas industry. Some of the statements contained in this press release are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are based on management's current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by those statements. Story continues Tenaris is a leading global supplier of steel tubes and related services for the worlds energy industry and certain other industrial applications. Giovanni Sardagna Tenaris 1-888-300-5432 www.tenaris.com * Talks also involve long-term product distribution pact * Talks between the two failed in 2017 over valuation - sources * FWD aggressively expanding Asia footprint (Adds background on FWD) By Chayut Setboonsarng BANGKOK, March 22 (Reuters) - Thailand's Siam Commercial Bank Pcl (SCB) has entered into exclusive talks with Hong Kong-based insurer FWD Group for the sale of its life insurance business, nearly two years after previous talks broke off. The memorandum of understanding for potential partnership in life insurance also involves a long-term product distribution pact, SCB CEO Arthid Nanthawithaya said in a statement on Friday. The companies are in exclusive negotiations to finalise terms and agreements, SCB said, adding that the agreements were not binding and subject to approval. No financial details were given. An FWD Group spokesman confirmed that the company was in talks with "SCB to explore the possible acquisition of its life insurance business". SCB and FWD were in talks two years ago about a potential $3 billion sale of SCB's life insurance unit, SCB Life Assurance, but the talks failed on valuation disagreements, Reuters had reported. FWD, owned by tycoon Richard Li, has been aggressively expanding its Asian footprint in the last couple of years, mainly through acquisitions as it seeks to grab a bigger share of the market from large global as well as local insurers. In August last year, it got regulatory approval to buy HSBC Holdings' 49 percent stake in the London-headquartered lender's Malaysian life insurance joint venture, HSBC Amanah Takaful Malaysia Bhd. FWD's Asia presence includes Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. The company is also awaiting regulatory approval in China to launch a life insurance joint venture. In 2018, SCB Life and FWD were ranked fifth and eighth, respectively, in terms of market share of total premiums in Thailand, according to Thai Life Assurance Association data. SCB, Thailand's second-largest bank by assets, signed a bancassurance deal last year with the Thai unit of UK-based Prudential Plc. (Reporting by Chayut Setboonsarng in Bangkok; Additional reporting by Sumeet Chatterjee in Hong Kong; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman) Tim Cook reportedly met with a Chinese official as he tours the country ahead of Apple's big event Tim Cook has been touring China ahead of this weekend's China Development Forum, where he called for privacy regulation last year. It's not immediately clear if Cook will attend this year's event. According to local reports, Cook met with Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan on Friday. Apple has its own event on Monday where it is expected to unveil a new TV streaming service. Apple AAPL CEO Tim Cook reportedly met with a top official in China Friday as he tours the country ahead of the China Development Forum and Apple's own event on Monday. State-run news agency Xinhua reported that Cook met with Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan on Friday. Apple did not immediately return a request for comment on the topic of the meeting or other reasons for Cook's trip to China, but Xinhua said Sun "made positive remarks" about Apple's role in relations between the U.S. and China. According to local reports, Cook also visited an online education company that is incorporating augmented reality into its product and met with a Chinese musician as he touted Apple's streaming service. Cook has been in the country since Thursday and has posted about the trip on Weibo, 9to5Mac reported . Tweet It's unclear if Cook will be in attendance at this weekend's Chinese Economic Forum, though Apple is listed as a participating group on the event's website. Cook attended the forum last year, where he had called for data privacy regulation following Facebook's FB Cambridge Analytica scandal that revealed the agency exploited millions of user data without their explicit consent. Tweet Cook's trip follows a turbulent year for commerce between the U.S. and China due to ongoing trade tensions between the two countries. Apple's revenue in the region was hit hard in its first quarter 2019, dropping nearly $5 billion from the previous year. Cook had cited economic slowdowns in China as a chief cause for its disappointing revenue in the quarter, but still expressed optimism in an interview with CNBC following the report. Story continues "I'm encouraged by the comments coming out of both countries," Cook told CNBC's Josh Lipton at the time. But the path forward between the two countries still remains unsettled . Cook is expected back in the U.S. by Monday, when Apple is hosting its own event where analysts anticipate it will unveil a new streaming service. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Watch: CNBC's full interview with Apple CEO Tim Cook More From CNBC The stock market has been on shaky ground since the drop off at the end of 2018 and with a 460 point drop in the Dow index just today. Therefore, a low beta stocks (low market correlation) with high yields might be a smart hedge for your portfolio. Utility stocks fit this profile with their low market correlation and typically larger dividend payouts. These stocks usually have a flight-to-quality classification as well when there is a broader market sell-off investors will go to utility stocks as a high yield safe haven. Treasury yields have been sinking since the Feds decision to hold rates steady came Wednesday afternoon. The US 10 Yr Treasury yield is down 16 basis points since Fed Chair Jerome Powell spoke on Wednesday and down 82 basis points from its high last November of 3.24%. Mr. Powell signaled that there would be no more rate hikes in 2019. The Fed also plans to slow their current portfolio runoff and completely end the quantitative tightening by October of this year. This dovish talk should cause the 10 yr yields to slide even further. These huge moves downward in the US economys risk-free bond makes high yield utility stocks look much more attractive to investors. Here are a few utility stocks to think about adding to your portfolio: NextEra Energy NEE NextEra Energy is the largest public utility company by market cap in the US, operating in 27 states and 4 provinces in Canada. The company produces 46% of its energy from natural gas, 26% from nuclear, 22% from wind turbines and the remaining 6% from solar, coal and oil combined. NEE has shown a consistent top-line with expanding margins (seen in the bar chart below) that have outpaced its competitors by a considerable amount (58% gross margin). The business is moving towards alternative power generation with plans to add around 15,000 MW by 2020 (currently producing close to 50,000 MW), in 2018 they were able to add more than 6,500 MW of renewable energy to their capacity. NextEra has numerous projects in the works including a joint venture that just received approval by the FERC called the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP) that will further connect their natural gas operations to the Southeast US markets. Story continues NEE trades more like a growth stock outpacing the S&P 500 index by almost 25% in the last 2 years. This is due to expanding margins and lucrative projects that have broadened NextEras reach. The stock is only yielding 2.6% but with a 0.29 beta this investment option would make a great broader market hedge for your portfolio NEE is currently a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Southern Company SO Southern Company is an Atlanta based electric utility firm that serves around 9 million customers in 9 states in the southeast. SO completed the acquisition of AGL Resources at the end of 2016 making them one of the largest utility companies in the US with a 46,000 MW capacity. This stock is boasting a similar growth story to NextEra Energy with a 27% total return over the last year, and according to Edward Jones analyst, earnings are expected to grow 5% annually for the next 5 years. Southern Company is trading at a beta of 0.19 and boasting a 4.65% yield making it an attractive hedge for your portfolio if you believe the growth story. The company has beaten estimates for the past 8 earnings report, and analyst are still adjusting future EPS estimates up. You can see below that for the full year 2019 and full year 2020 adjusted up motivating a Zacks Rank #2 (buy). Pacific Gas & Electric Co PCG PG&E has been in the news quite a bit recently because of its connection with the Paradise, California wildfire that killed at least 86 people. PG&E came out to the public and said they likely caused the campfire that destroyed thousands of lives and became the deadliest campfire in California history. The company decided to file bankruptcy protection to itself from lawsuits. As you could probably guess the stock plummeted and is currently trading down 57% for the last 52 weeks. I know this probably sounds like a stock you wouldnt want to touch because of the potential liabilities involved but this could be a great buying opportunity for a stock that everyone is scared of. PG&E didnt have any systemic changes in its operations other than increasing controls and safety measures. They have shown consistent adjusted net income growth (shown on the chart below). According to some investors, they didnt even need to file for bankruptcy protection because they had sufficient cash flows to pay for damages. PCG is also boasting a 20% yield because its stock dropped so much in the last 6 month. These catalysts lead me to believe this may be an excellent opportunity to get on the ground floor of an undervalued utility company that still serves 16 million Americans and not to mention a crazy high dividend yield. PCG is a Zacks Ranking #3 (Hold) at the moment. Looking for Stocks with Skyrocketing Upside? Zacks has just released a Special Report on the booming investment opportunities of legal marijuana. Ignited by new referendums and legislation, this industry is expected to blast from an already robust $6.7 billion to $20.2 billion in 2021. Early investors stand to make a killing, but you have to be ready to act and know just where to look. See the pot trades we're targeting>> 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 Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PCG) : Free Stock Analysis Report Southern Company (The) (SO) : Free Stock Analysis Report NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research FILE PHOTO: Patrick Pouyanne, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Total, attends the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos FILE PHOTO: Patrick Pouyanne, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Total, attends the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland January 25, 2018. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse PARIS (Reuters) - The board of French oil and gas major Total has proposed total 2018 compensation for Chief Executive Patrick Pouyanne of 3.1 million euros ($3.55 million), compared with 3.8 million in 2017, company documents showed on Wednesday. The total pay includes 1.4 million euros in fixed compensation, the same as in 2017, and 1.72 million in annual variable compensation, compared with 2.4 million in 2017, and 69,000 in other benefits, the documents showed. The company said in a statement that the decrease in variable compensation resulted from criteria based on the average three-year change in Total's adjusted net income in comparison with those of its peers. "The Board of Directors wants to emphasize that the decrease by 17 percent of Patrick Pouyanne's cash remuneration due for the year 2018, resulting from the strict application of the rules,... doesnt reflect in any way its appreciation of the exceptional work accomplished in 2018 by (him)," it said. Pouyanne has often quipped that he is the least paid among the bosses of the global oil majors. The company reported a 28 percent jump in full-year profit in 2018 to $13.6 billion. In comparison, Shell's CEO Ben van Beurden's 2018 pay package more than doubled to 20.1 million euros and Chevron Corp has said its Chief Executive Officer Michael Wirth is eligible for $19 million in total pay this year. Total's shareholders will vote on Pouyanne's proposed package during an annual meeting on May 29. (Reporting by Bate Felix; editing by Leigh Thomas and Kirsten Donovan) U.S. President Donald Trump talks to reporters as he departs to visit storm-hit areas of Alabama from the White House in Washington, U.S., March 8, 2019. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst 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. Story continues 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. 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 Donald Trump says he will remove new North Korea-related sanctions announced only on Thursday. The White House says he made the sudden move because he "likes" North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. The U.S. is pushing North Korea to abandon its nuclear and missile programs. President Donald Trump said Friday that he would scrap action his administration took only a day earlier to crack down on companies accused of helping North Korea evade sanctions. "It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea," the president tweeted on Friday, though the Treasury announcement he appeared to reference took place Thursday and did not involve "large scale" sanctions. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" Donald Trump North Korea tweet In explaining the president's sudden announcement, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said, "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary." Trump's tweet and the press secretary's clarification of it sent waves of confusion throughout Washington, from the Pentagon to the White House itself. On Thursday, Treasury designated two China-based shipping companies that it said has aided Pyongyang in circumventing U.S. and international sanctions. The U.S. and its allies have used those economic measures to push North Korea to dismantle its nuclear and missile programs. Trump and North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un have met face to face twice, but left a summit in Vietnam last month without reaching a deal on denuclearization. Since the summit, reports have emerged of new activity at a North Korean missile research center and rocket site. Trump's surprise reversal Friday marks a departure from his administration's messaging a day earlier. In a tweet Thursday after the Treasury's announcement, White House National Security Advisor John Bolton said "everyone should take notice and review their own activities to ensure that they are not involved in North Korea's sanctions evasion." Story continues John Bolton North Korea tweet Since exchanging explosive rhetoric with Kim during his first year in office, Trump has aimed to assuage his North Korean counterpart as he pushes for an agreement to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula. The president has also tried to tread carefully around China as he tries to reach a trade deal with Beijing and end a potentially devastating trade conflict. The U.S. has viewed getting Beijing to pull back its support for North Korea as crucial to getting the isolated regime to abandon its nuclear ambitions. A Treasury Department spokesman did not immediately respond to a request to comment on the president's tweet. The Pentagon referred all queries about it to the White House. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. More From CNBC Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) -- Facebook employees discussed Cambridge Analytica harvesting unwitting users' data as early as September 2015, months ahead of any public disclosures about the practice, which later became one of the troubled tech giants largest scandals to date. The disclosure comes as part of a lawsuit filed by Washington D.C.'s Attorney General Karl Racine, who is suing the social media giant for "ongoing unlawful trade practices. Facebook has moved to dismiss the case as well as to keep a key document sealed. The sealed document, described in a court filing by Racine's office on Monday, contains "an email exchange between Facebook employees discussing how Cambridge Analytica (and others) violated Facebooks policies, according to the filing. The filing also states that the data of "nearly half of all D.C. residents were swept up in this illicit sale" of data from Cambridge Analytica. Facebook confirmed the internal conversations about data scraping and Cambridge Analytica that were detailed in the document but called it "speculation" among the employees in an emailed statement to ABC News. These were two different incidents: in September 2015 employees heard speculation whether Cambridge Analytica was scraping data, something that is unfortunately common for any internet service, a company spokesperson wrote. "In December 2015, we first learned through media reports that Kogan sold data to Cambridge Analytica, and we took action. Those were two different things." Kogan refers to Aleksandr Kogan, the Cambridge University psychologist who developed the quiz that collected data from Facebook users, the results of which were then passed on to Cambridge Analytica. The two sides met in court on Friday afternoon and D.C. Superior Court Judge Fern F. Saddler said she would make a ruling by the end of April for whether to dismiss the case. She did not make a ruling on unsealing the Facebook documents. The messages between the employees in September 2015 are candid employee assessments that multiple third-party applications accessed and sold consumer data in violation of Facebooks policies during the 2016 United States Presidential Election," according to Racine's filing. It also indicates Facebook knew of Cambridge Analyticas improper data-gathering practices months before news outlets reported on the issue. The timing is important because the Cambridge Analytica scandal first exposed the general public to how tech companies share user data and how that data could have influenced world events, specifically the 2016 U.S. elections and Brexit. In December 2015, a report by the Guardian revealed that Cambridge Analytica, a political consulting firm that has since gone under, had harvested the data of tens of millions of people from Facebook by consulting firm Global Science Research (GSR), a data-focused marketing firm hired by the Ted Cruz campaign. GSR then transferred that data, without users' knowledge, to Cambridge Analyticas parent company Strategic Communications Laboratories (SCL). At the time, Steve Bannon was the vice president of Cambridge Analytica. He then became Donald Trumps 2016 campaign chairman. In March 2018, The Guardian published an explosive report detailing how Cambridge Analytica accessed the data of 50 million Facebook users. The number of users whose data was breached later climbed to 87 million. Cambridge Analytica had also been hired to work with the Trump campaign. At the time of The Guardian scoop the campaign told ABC News that it never used Cambridge Anaytica's data, saying it relied on voter information gathered by the Republican National Committee. Any claims that voter data were used from another source to support the victory in 2016 are false, the Trump campaign spokesperson said. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. By Tom Polansek CHICAGO, March 22 (Reuters) - U.S. border agents said they have seized 1 million pounds (453,592 kg) of food products from China this month, rather than 1 million pounds of pork as they had previously announced, as they work to keep out African swine fever. The containers seized also had noodles and tea bags that were used to facilitate the unlawful import of pork products, Anthony Bucci, spokesman for Customs Border and Protection, said this week. The previous week the agency said it had seized 1 million pounds of pork. Federal customs and agriculture officials are on high alert for illegal imports because China is suffering from an outbreak of African swine fever. There is no cure and no vaccine for the disease, which does not affect humans but is highly contagious and fatal to hogs. Authorities may fine importers of the products, according to Basil Liakakos, chief agriculture specialist for Customs and Border Protection at the Port of New York/Newark, but they will have a hard time punishing the exporters. The importers have not been named publicly. Officials detected the illegal pork in shipping containers after finding food products that had already been smuggled into the United States, he said in an interview. Home to the world's largest hog herd, China has reported 112 outbreaks of the disease in 28 provinces and regions since August. The United States wants to keep out the virus because an outbreak would likely limit trade and raise pork prices for consumers. While the products' importers may face fines, exporters are typically not penalized, Liakakos said. "It's very difficult to penalize an exporting country," he said. "You have to have a very large burden of proof to prove what they're doing." The United States and China are negotiating an end to a tariff dispute. U.S. officials determined the seized products could contain African swine fever because China has the disease, according to Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Story continues The agencies have worked together for about a year to gather intelligence and target ships that could pose a risk for the disease, said Lyndsay Cole, spokeswoman for the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The USDA will not test the seized products to determine whether they actually had African swine fever, Cole said, because all products found in violation of U.S. regulations are destroyed. (Reporting by Tom Polansek in Chicago Editing by Caroline Stauffer and Matthew Lewis) WASHINGTON, March 23 (Reuters) - The United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin will travel to Beijing for the latest round of high-level trade talks scheduled to start on March 28, the White House said in a statement on Saturday. The United States also will receive a Chinese trade delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He for meetings in Washington that are set to begin on April 3, the White House said. (Reporting by Roberta Rampton; Writing by Makini Brice Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) The marijuana industry has strong potential especially after legalization for recreational and medicinal use. Moreover, the industry is getting benefits of expansion into other industries like food, beverage, tobacco and cosmetics. Growing legalization of recreational or medical marijuana is likely to bolster investors confidence in this industry. Legalization Considered a Boon for the Industry Legalization has long been considered a boon for the marijuana industry. Canada has become the first major world economy and the second country after Uruguay to legalize recreational use of marijuana. Effective Oct 17, 2018, Canadians can legally buy and consume marijuana. Cannabis is getting official approval from many U.S. states for recreational uses, in addition to medical usage. Though pot remains entirely illegal at the federal level, currently 33 U.S. states have greenlighted medical use marijuana, while 10 states have allowed recreational use of marijuana. Hemp-CBD Market: A New Growth Area There is growing demand for uses of CBD, a non-psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, in food, drinks and cosmetics. The Hemp Business Journal estimated that sales in the hemp-CBD market will reach to about $1.3 billion by 2022. The U.S. cannabis companies are still under regulatory prohibitions. Canadian operators are looking for ways to expand their reach by mergers and acquisitions. The hemp-CBD market offers lucrative opportunities for expansion. This is because the 2018 Farm Bill subjects hemp and its derivatives to the agricultural products category rather than controlled substances. Strong Market Potential Research firm Euromonitor has estimated that the American market for legal marijuana products will reach $20 billion by 2020 from a mere $5.4 billion in 2015. According to the Arcview Market Research, the U.S. legal cannabis market is expected to reach $23 billion by 2022. Research firm Cowen projected that the market size of the U.S. legal cannabis industry will reach $75 billion in by 2030, surpassing the carbonated soft drink market in 2017. Per a study conducted by Colorado cannabis consulting firm Freedman & Koski, Illinois annual marijuana market could be between $1.69 billion and $2.58 billion. Overall, U.S. consumer spending on legal cannabis is expected to reach $22.2 billion by 2022, while Canadian spending is estimated to hit $5.9 billion, per a January report by Arcview Market. Extremely Volatile Industry The marijuana industry is considered as extremely volatile. Most of these companies are in their early stages of development and characterized as risky for investors. However, this industry had been providing fabulous returns to investors in 2018 before legalization in Canada. Since the industry is in its nascent stage, even a minor negative may become the cause of major stock price fluctuations. Notably, in October 2018, the news of supply shortages resulted in panic selling as investors look to offload risky stocks. According to some industry experts, 5-10% share price volatility daily should not be considered as unnatural for this industry. Major Gainers Major U.S.-listed marijuana companies are likely to gain from the industrys early-stage boom. As an evidence of strong demand in the United States, pot companies have engaged in deals of late. In the last one year, share prices of major marijuana companies such as Tilray Inc. TLRY, Cronos Group Inc. CRON, Canopy Growth Corp. CGC and GW Pharmaceuticals plc GWPH have jumped 213.8%, 175%, 77.8% and 51.7%, respectively. GW Pharmaceuticals carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy)stocks here. The chart below shows price performance of four major marijuana stocks in the last one year. Story continues Breakout Biotech Stocks with Triple-Digit Profit Potential The biotech sector is projected to surge beyond $775 billion by 2024 as scientists develop treatments for thousands of diseases. Theyre also finding ways to edit the human genome to literally erase our vulnerability to these diseases. Zacks has just released Century of Biology: 7 Biotech Stocks to Buy Right Now to help investors profit from 7 stocks poised for outperformance. Our recent biotech recommendations have produced gains of +98%, +119% and +164% in as little as 1 month. The stocks in this report could perform even better. See these 7 breakthrough stocks now>> 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 GW Pharmaceuticals PLC (GWPH) : Free Stock Analysis Report Tilray, Inc. (TLRY) : Free Stock Analysis Report Cronos Group Inc. (CRON) : Free Stock Analysis Report Canopy Growth Corporation (CGC) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research If you're looking for a Sector - Tech fund category, then a potential option is USAA Science & Technology Fund (USSCX). USSCX carries a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank of 3 (Hold), which is based on nine forecasting factors like size, cost, and past performance. Objective USSCX is part of the Sector - Tech category, which boasts an array of different possible selections. With a much more diversified approach, Sector - Tech mutual funds give investors a way to own a stake in a notoriously risky sector. Tech companies are in various industries like semiconductors, software, internet, and networking, among others. History of Fund/Manager USAA Group is based in San Antonio, TX, and is the manager of USSCX. Since USAA Science & Technology Fund made its debut in August of 1997, USSCX has garnered more than $1.33 billion in assets. The fund's current manager is a team of investment professionals. Performance Obviously, what investors are looking for in these funds is strong performance relative to their peers. USSCX has a 5-year annualized total return of 13.82% and is in the top third among its category peers. If you're interested in shorter time frames, do not dismiss looking at the fund's 3-year annualized total return of 20.12%, which places it in the middle third during this time-frame. When looking at a fund's performance, it is also important to note the standard deviation of the returns. The lower the standard deviation, the less volatility the fund experiences. USSCX's standard deviation over the past three years is 15.77% compared to the category average of 12.68%. The standard deviation of the fund over the past 5 years is 15.22% compared to the category average of 12.45%. This makes the fund more volatile than its peers over the past half-decade. Risk Factors Investors cannot discount the risks to this segment though, as it is always important to remember the downside for any potential investment. In USSCX's case, the fund lost 52.59% in the most recent bear market and outperformed its peer group by 0.72%. This could mean that the fund is a better choice than comparable funds during a bear market. Story continues Nevertheless, investors should also note that the fund has a 5-year beta of 1.19, which means it is hypothetically more volatile than the market at large. Because alpha represents a portfolio's performance on a risk-adjusted basis relative to a benchmark, which is the S&P 500 in this case, one should pay attention to this metric as well. The fund has produced a positive alpha over the past 5 years of 1.48, which shows that managers in this portfolio are skilled in picking securities that generate better-than-benchmark returns. Holdings Exploring the equity holdings of a mutual fund is also a valuable exercise. This can show us how the manager is applying their stated methodology, as well as if there are any inherent biases in their approach. For this particular fund, the focus is primarily on equities that are traded in the United States. The mutual fund currently has 97.49% of its holdings in stocks, which have an average market capitalization of $191.01 billion. The fund has the heaviest exposure to the following market sectors: Technology Health Turnover is 56%, which means this fund makes fewer trades than the average comparable fund. Expenses Costs are increasingly important for mutual fund investing, and particularly as competition heats up in this market. And all things being equal, a lower cost product will outperform its otherwise identical counterpart, so taking a closer look at these metrics is key for investors. In terms of fees, USSCX is a no load fund. It has an expense ratio of 1.04% compared to the category average of 1.31%. So, USSCX is actually cheaper than its peers from a cost perspective. While the minimum initial investment for the product is $3,000, investors should also note that each subsequent investment needs to be at least $50. Bottom Line Overall, USAA Science & Technology Fund ( USSCX ) has a neutral Zacks Mutual Fund rank, strong performance, average downside risk, and lower fees compared to its peers. Don't stop here for your research on Sector - Tech funds. We also have plenty more on our site in order to help you find the best possible fund for your portfolio. Make sure to check out www.zacks.com/funds/mutual-funds for more information about the world of funds, and feel free to compare USSCX to its peers as well for additional information. Zacks provides a full suite of tools to help you analyze your portfolio - both funds and stocks - in the most efficient way possible. 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 Get Your Free (USSCX): Fund Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The U.S. Capitol Building. Credit: Mike Scarcella/ALM Washington Wrap is a weekly look at industry news and Big Law moves shaping the legal business in Washington, D.C. Send news tips and lateral moves to Ryan Lovelace at rlovelace@alm.com. In the coming week we'll be continuing to analyze Am Law 100 and 200 financial results in the D.C. market and beyond. But it's not too early to note that while some of Washingtons largest law firms posted record revenues in 2018, some of their competitors faced stiffer headwinds. Bottom line: Not everyone is enjoying the broader industry trend of rising demand, growing revenue and increasing profits. Among early reports, Covington & Burling and Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr stand out for posting record high revenues in 2018. Wilmer ticked up to $1.149 billion in gross revenue, while Covington cracked the $1 billion threshold for the first time. Elsewhere around town and throughout the mid-Atlantic, however, the picture is somewhat less rosy. The majority of D.C. firms analyzed by Citi Private Banks Law Firm Group62 percentrecorded decreasing demand in 2018, while 61 percent of the total 191 firms Citi surveyed nationwide saw demand increase. Wells Fargos law firm and lending advisory unit reported similar results: demand dropped by 2.7 percent in the mid-Atlantic, but rose by 2.3 percent across all 150 firms it reviewed nationwide. Such results have prompted rumblings about the strength of the D.C. market and questions about how firms would survive an economic downturn amid divided government. But others are more optimistic. I dont think the D.C. market is vulnerable because its the D.C. market. I actually think D.C. firms that have our kind of brand are going to thrive in periods of congressional investigations and more regulation, said Bob Novick, co-managing partner at Wilmer. Its not D.C. versus New York versus Chicago, it is how much high-value work will corporate America, will the corporate clients push into the outside counsel market in a period of downturn? Because thats where we all live. Novick noted that the leverage between clients and law firms had shifted coming out of the financial crisis. While the financial crisis is in the past, clients never let us recover from it insofar as they did not start paying full rates again and covering all expenses, he said. He said firms trimmed down during the recession, which could leave little room for cuts that may be needed to weather a new storm. The tipping point for a firm approaching the brink, Novick said, is pretty quick. Jeffrey Lowe, Major, Lindsey & Africas managing partner in D.C., said 2018 was a pretty strong year for firms nationwide. He said he thinks firms are still very bullish about the market, knowing that its full steam ahead until it crashes. Since the Trump administration began, theres a continued focus on D.C. as a power center and I think thats a good thing for people in the D.C. market, Lowe said. D.C. firms also appear to be recognizing the strategic importance of another power center, with a clientele increasingly coming under the critical gaze of federal lawmakers and regulators: San Francisco. Wilmer is opening offices in San Francisco in 2019 and has designs on serving the tech sectors Washington-facing legal needs. Crowell & Moring, which is in the process of recalibrating after large contingency windfalls in recent years, has its "greatest aspiration for growth" this year in San Francisco, according to firm chair Philip Inglima. Such near-term planning for D.C. firms could shift again next year, depending on the economy and the outcome of the 2020 election. As a D.C. firm, youre always thinking, I could lose 20 people at the next election just because people have been waiting their turn and now they go, Novick said. And youre thinking, Who am I going to take out of an administration? Youre always sort of pipeline planning, if not by name sort of conceptually, are you well-positioned to attract 15 people as 20 people walk out the door? Story continues Law Firm Moves, News & Notes Speaking of walking out the door, K&L Gates partner Dick Thornburgh formally retired from the practice of law this week. He started at K&L Gates as an associate in 1959 and rejoined the firm after more than 25 years in government, including as Pennsylvanias governor and U.S. attorney general for Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton added Thomas Dillickrath as partner in its antitrust and competition practice group in Washington, D.C. Dillickrath was most recently deputy chief trial counsel at the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Sidley Austin added Laurence Kirsch and Noreen Phelan as partners in Washington, D.C. Kirsch is partner in the firms environmental practice and Phelan is partner in the energy and infrastructure practice. Kirsch made the move from Goodwin Procter where he was partner, while Phelan joined from Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe where she was partner. Venable has brought on Kevin Lipson as partner its regulatory practice in D.C. Lipson made the move after 26 years at Hogan Lovells. Lipson represents the estate of artist Robert Indiana, who created the LOVE sculpture. Karen C. Corallo has joined Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom as of counsel from Greenberg Traurig. She was of counsel at Greenberg Traurig, too. Corallo is a former director of the U.S. Food and Drug Administrations center for drug evaluation and research. She handles litigation for pharmaceutical, medical device and food industry clients and tackles regulatory and enforcement issues for businesses, according to Skadden. Former U.S. Sen. Joe Donnelly, D-Indiana, will start as partner at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld on April 1. Last weekend, Akin Gump international trade practice head Tom McCarthy co-chaired the Leukemia & Lymphoma Societys annual Leukemia Ball. Steptoe & Johnson added Teddy Baldwin as partner in Washington, D.C. Baldwin is joining from Baker McKenzie and handles international arbitration matters. Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck named Ryan A. Smith chair of the firms national resources department. Smith is a Brownstein shareholder in D.C. who joined the firm in 2011 after serving as a staffer to former U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Arizona. Jason Gould and James Jorden joined Drinker Biddle & Reath as partners from Carlton Fields. Gould is a class action litigator and Jorden is an insurance and financial institutions counsel. Jordens law firm merged with Carlton Fields in 2014 to form Carlton Fields Jorden Burt. In February, Carlton Fields axed Jorden Burt from its name and Jorden left with a large group of lawyers soon thereafter. Alston & Bird said Elinor Hiller rejoined the firm as a partner in its health care group in Washington, D.C. She was most recently a senior adviser at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and previously practiced at Alston & Bird for seven years. WASHINGTON -- U.S. officials have exchanged views with representatives of Russia and China on the current status of the Afghan peace process, the State Department says. In a statement on March 22, the department said representatives met in Washington on March 21-22 and discussed common efforts to bring peace, prosperity, and security to Afghanistan. They underscored their respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, as well as Afghanistans right to make its own political, security, and economic decisions, the statement added. It said the three countries agreed to hold further discussions on the issue and that the exact dates and sites for such talks were to be decided. The statement did not list which officials were involved in the discussions, although on March 20, the State Department announced that the U.S. special representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, would meet with officials from Russia and China on the matter. That statement said Zamir Kabulov, Russia's presidential envoy to Afghanistan; Deng Xijun, his Chinese counterpart; and Roland Kobia, the EU's special envoy, would be part of the briefing. Russian state-run TASS news agency said Kabulov attended the talks in Washington. And, simultaneously but separately, the State Department said Khalilzad had held consultations with Kobia, although it was not clear if the talks were together with the other diplomats or bilateral. 'Peace Must Be Key Objective' Khalilzad and Kobia agreed that bringing an end to Afghanistans war and achieving peace must be the key objective, and that violence should cease, the statement said. "Both sides underscored their respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Afghanistan," it said, adding that the United States and EU "encourage all countries to support the current peace process, inclusive intra-Afghan talks, and lasting development and reconstruction in Afghanistan. The government in Kabul is fighting against Taliban extremists, who are attempting to reclaim control of the Afghan government. The Taliban controlled the Afghan government before being driven from power in 2001 by a U.S.-led invasion after it refused to end support for Al-Qaeda terrorists following the September 11 terror attacks in the United States. Taliban leaders, who took control in 1996, imposed a harsh form of Islamic law that denied education and work to women and girls as they cracked down on other social activities. They were accused by international groups of human rights violations, causing concerns among more-moderate Afghans about their participation in any future government. The U.S. military has some 12,000 troops in Afghanistan, mostly serving in training and advisory roles, but President Donald Trump has indicated a desire to reduce U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts and withdraw American forces. Khalilzad has held several rounds of peace talks with the Taliban in Qatar, but the Western-backed government in Kabul has been absent from the negotiations, with the militant group insisting it will not engage with a Western "puppet." National Express Transit will close its Colorado Springs office and lay off all 60 employees on June 30, when its agreement to provide paratransit services to Mountain Metro Transit expires. However, most of those employees are expected to be hired by the new contractor, Transdev North America, when it takes over the paratransit operation on July 1, said Craig Blewitt, transit service manager for the city of Colorado Springs and Mountain Metro Transits director. Transdev has been selected as the preferred contractor and the city is negotiating terms of the deal with Mountain Metro, he said. National Express sent the layoff notice Friday to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, saying all 60 workers would be laid off due to the loss of business revenue and related reorganization. The notice complies with the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, which requires employers to give employees 60 days notice of a mass layoff. National Express had held the contract since 2014 and submitted a proposal when the city rebid the work late last year. Transdev, which provides fleet maintenance services to Mountain Metro, was selected as the winning bidder and a transition from National Express is expected to begin in mid-April, Blewitt said. Mountain Metro is required to recompete these contracts on a regular basis, so we test the market regularly to make sure we are paying market rates to its contractors, Blewitt said. Transdev North America, owned by Paris-based Transdev, is one of the nations largest transportation providers, serving 200 communities with a 20,000-person workforce. The company also operates the zTrip taxi service in Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins and 13 U.S. other cities and the SuperShuttle airport transportation service in Colorado Springs, Denver, 70 other U.S. cities and 15 other cities worldwide. Contact Wayne Heilman 636-0234 Facebook www.facebook.com/ wayne.heilman A lease between the city of Colorado Springs and Amazon shows that the online giant has bigger plans for the Springs, including the conversion of a temporary facility that opened in November into a permanent delivery station that could employ several hundred workers. The lease, that was signed in August and began Sept. 1, allows Amazon to use a site at the Colorado Springs Airport for erecting, furnishing, equipping and maintaining a modular delivery center for receiving, assembling, shipping, distributing, preparing and selling products, materials, food, grocery and liquor items. The property is south of the airports passenger terminal near rental car facilities. Amazons expansion to the Springs comes as the company grows its footprint across Colorado and nationwide to get merchandise to customers more quickly, sometimes within two hours. To speed deliveries in Colorado, the company opened a robot-aided distribution center in Thornton last summer with plans for up to 1,500 employees. Amazon employs more than 2,000 statewide at the Thornton center, a sorting center near Denver International Airport, another delivery station in Aurora, an engineering operation in Boulder focused on digital advertising and cloud computing, and a retail store in Park Meadows mall. The Gazette obtained the new information through a Colorado Open Records Act request for the lease, which covers 4 acres at 7704 Milton E. Proby Parkway, where Amazon.com Services opened a 17,000-square-foot temporary facility in November with 150 employees. Amazon is paying $10,000 a month for the land through March 31, 2020. Amazon opened the temporary station at the airport as the final step in delivering merchandise to customers through either companies or individuals under contract to make deliveries for Amazon, spokeswoman Amanda Ip told The Gazette in November. She declined then to discuss plans for a permanent facility. However, a paragraph in the lease allows Amazon to extend the lease for two years if it signs a lease or development agreement for a new facility of at least 50,000 square feet in the airports Peak Innovation Business Park. The citys Planning & Community Development Department approved plans last month from TC Pursuit Services for a 66,780-square-foot building in the business park at 4303 Grinnell Blvd. that is listed as a proposed delivery station. A building permit is pending. TC Pursuit Services is in real estate giant Trammell Crow Co.s downtown Denver office. Trammell Crow has marketed and developed property around the nation where Amazon has built distribution centers, including a 2.4-million-square-foot facility on 80 acres in Thornton. Shone Jemmott, an Amazon spokeswoman, said in an email she could not confirm the companys expansion plans. Jeff Greene, chief of staff for Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers, declined to comment, citing a confidentiality agreement on the temporary delivery station and the project in the business park. The proposed delivery station would be built on one of two parcels in Peak Innovation Business Park that the Colorado Springs City Council agreed in November to sell to a Fortune 500 company for a pair of warehouse-distribution facilities that would generate a significant number of jobs, according to information presented to council members. During discussion of the sale, Councilman Bill Murray referenced Amazon as a possible user of the distribution facilities. No plans have been submitted for the second, larger parcel in the park. Helen Fiske Hunt Jackson moved to Colorado in 1873. She came hoping the dry, high altitude would bring relief for her throat and bronchitis ailments and she found the air and climate here helpful and delightful. She had earned considerable acclaim for her poetry and journalism. She had lost her first husband, Edward Hunt. Hunt, a West Point-educated engineer, died in an accident during the Civil War. She settled in downtown Colorado Springs, then a fledgling frontier village, continued to write, and married a local Republican entrepreneur, William S. Jackson. She had met and fallen in love with Jackson while they were boarding at the first hotel in Colorado Springs, aptly known as the Colorado Springs Hotel, on Cascade Avenue. She scorned politics and was happy when her second husband failed in his bid to become one of Colorados first U.S. senators. He was a young business associate of Gen. William Palmer and became a leading banker and businessman here, as well as a four-decade trustee at Colorado College. After they married in late 1875, the Jacksons lived for the next decade at 228 East Kiowa St. (on the corner with Weber) in one of the towns nicest three-story houses. Helen Hunt Jackson soon found a political cause that led her to write both a scathing nonfiction policy tract and Ramona, a bestselling politically themed novel. Her cause was the plight of Native Americans and how they were mistreated by her fellow Caucasians. Her nonfiction A Century of Dishonor (1881) held that so long as there remains in our frontier one square mile of land occupied by a weak and helpless owner, there will be a strong and unscrupulous frontiersman ready to seize it, and a weak and unscrupulous politician, who can be hired for a vote, or for money to back him. It was a strident call, aimed at educating Americans about broken promises, questionable confiscations of tribal lands and hypocrisy. Jackson sent a copy of this work, at her own expense, to members of Congress and leading clergy. While her book was reviewed favorably, she was also dismissed as a preachy amateur historian. She decided to follow the example of Harriet Beecher Stowe, and conceived and wrote a sentimental romance novel, to make her case anew and try to reach a wider audience. Jacksons novel, Ramona, is a prime example of an observation George Orwell once made about effective writers. Writing a book, he said, is a horrible, exhausting struggle, a lot like a long bout of some painful illness. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not driven on by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand. Helen Hunt Jackson said she didnt write Ramona, it was written through me. Her demon was the prejudice and injustice she saw around the West. She poured all her energy and lifeblood into this novel and died the next year. Coloradans who havent read Ramona, should. It was inspired by what Jackson saw as she traveled around Colorado and California. She visited the site of the Sand Creek Massacre in southwestern Colorado and had toured many of the mining towns in Colorado. The novel is set in Southern California. Its endearing heroine, Ramona, is a beautiful young mixed-race orphan who falls in love with a manly, handsome young Indian named Alessandro Assis. Jacksons stoic and heroic Alessandro is a stand-in for countless Native Americans who had been removed from their lands by the Manifest Destiny policies. Alessandro, despite being in love with Ramona, knows that life with him and his fellow Indians will be one of poverty, struggle and frustration. He warns they could be treated as if they were animals, or beasts. But I, too, am an Indian, Ramona protests, adding she would rather die than be left behind by her lover. Oh, Alessandro, take me with you. Their love is wondrously rich. Forced to elope, they forsake the hacienda haven where Ramona had been adopted, and try to forge their own path as Indians. And their life is miserable. Jacksons novel beguiles us with a seductive love story, yet it is set in a larger context of heartless injustice and inhumane practices. Jackson criticized her fellow citizens who assumed the superiority of their Anglo race. Her contemporaries worshipped a white, primarily Anglo-Saxon Protestant god and thought of Native Americans as inferior, lazy, treacherous not like us. Jackson became a fearless reformer and an undaunted contrarian. Critics called her novel sentimental and faulted it for its one-sided idealizations. Her romantic duo is indeed so admirable, so physically and spiritually attractive, they might make even a Hollywood scriptwriter blush. Yet, there have been several film adaptations of her book, starring Mary Pickford and Loretta Young. Colorados Helen Hunt Jackson was a storyteller with a message, a novelist with a purpose and a writer who used her talents to celebrate inclusiveness, fairness, humanity and equal justice for all. (A splendid exhibit of Helen Hunt Jackson memorabilia and rooms from her house are well maintained on the third floor of the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum and a collection of her papers and writings are also open to the public at Tutt Librarys Special Collections at Colorado College.) Ramona stands with Uncle Toms Cabin, The Jungle, The Grapes of Wrath, and Beloved as a reminder of the kind of republic most Americans yearn it still might become. Tom Cronin is president emeritus of Whitman College and professor emeritus at Colorado College. City Editor Tom Roeder is the Gazette's City Editor. In Colorado Springs since 2003, Tom has covered the military at home and overseas and has covered statehouses in Denver and Olympia, Wash. His main job, though, is being dad to two great kids. 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 Colorado Springs April 2 municipal election has familiar faces, high-profile politicians and political newcomers running for mayor and three at-large City Council seats. Also on the ballot is Issue 1, proposed by the Professional Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 5, asking voters to approve collective bargaining rights for the citys firefighters. The election is conducted by mail and the city clerk mailed more than 260,000 ballots to Colorado Springs residents earlier this month. Those who have not received a ballot can contact the Clerks Office at 719.385.5901 or by email at election@springsgov.com. Over the past few months candidates have expressed a wide range of priorities and visions for Colorado Springs. They have also outlined their background and experience. The Gazette profiled candidates through the election season and - along with KOAA News5 hosted a forum for council candidates. At least one additional forum was held regarding Issue 1. The candidates and issue are listed below in the order they will appear on the ballot: Mayor Lawrence Martinez has worked as a hospice home care specialist and a business consultant. He also ran for mayor in 2015, getting less than 2 percent of the overall vote. Top priorities are providing job training for children, bringing manufacturing jobs to the citys southeast side and bolstering the citys nonprofit community to address homelessness. John Suthers, the incumbent, was elected in 2015. Suthers said he wants to hire more police officers, attract additional affordable housing and more aggressively enforce no camping bans. John Pitchford is an Army veteran who moved to Colorado Springs from Texas more than two years ago. Fairness has been the battle cry of his campaign alongside the complaint that too often developers appear to wield too much influence. Juliette Parker also moved to Colorado Springs about two years ago, but quickly threw herself into a position to advocate for more affordable housing and new approaches to addressing homelessness, including the installation of a tiny home village to offer them a path off the street. At-Large City Council Gordon Klingenschmitt, a conservative firebrand and former state representative, has said hes concerned Colorado Springs is moving too far to the left politically. Among his priorities is lowering the citys tax rates. Bill Murray is one of two at-large incumbents vying for a second term. He said he wants to further increase transparency for city officials and to rely increasingly on data-driven analysis to influence how city departments are run. Val Snider, a former at-large councilman from 2011-15. Since then Snider said he would seeks to bolster council relationships. Wayne Williams, former secretary of state and perhaps the El Paso Countys highest-profile Republican, said his experience as a former county commissioner and in the Capitol would benefit Colorado Springs. Tony Gioia, an Army veteran, former El Paso County planning commissioner and current member of the citys Citizen Transportation Advisory Board, has said affordable housing, homelessness and diversifying the citys public boards and commissions are among his top priorities. Terry Martinez, former principal of Will Rogers Elementary School who recently sought the Democratic nomination for Colorados House District 18, has said hes in tune with the community and can build relationships to provide more affordable housing and boost public safety. Regina English is the founder of a nonprofit serving at-risk youth and director of a pageant system for African-American women. She hopes to offer additional affordable housing, revitalize neglected areas of Colorado Springs and isnt afraid to consider new taxes as a possible source of future revenue, though she opposes legalizing the sale of recreational marijuana. Tom Strand, the second at-large incumbent seeking another term. Strand has also served as president of Colorado Springs Utilities Board of Directors. He has said he wants to continue mending the councils relationship with the mayors office, improve infrastructure and generate jobs. Randy Tuck is a 30-year veteran of the construction industry who boasts that he helped to build downtown Colorado Springs. Tuck has said he wants to use his management experience to find new revenue sources for the city and spur economic growth. Athena Roe serves as the co-director for an organization which helps those financially wronged in probate proceedings. In 2016 she failed to petition her way on to the ballot in Colorado House District 18. She said she wants to discourage regulation and promote economic freedom while opposing new taxes. Dennis Spiker, is an Army veteran who has lived in the area since about 2013 . Spiker has said he wants to boost diversity in city government, shift longstanding tax incentive policies to benefit small businesses and revitalize the southeast side of town. Issue The Gazette searched El Paso County and 4th Judicial District court filings and other records for cases involving the 11 City Council candidates vying for three at-large seats and the four mayoral candidates in the April 2 election. The following was found during background checks for council candidates Randy Tuck, Regina English, Tony Gioia, Wayne Williams and Gordon Klingenschmitt and mayoral candidates Lawrence Martinez and Juliette Parker. The rest of the candidates did not have noteworthy local criminal or civil records, The Gazette found. Randy Tuck Tuck, retired after a more than 30-year career in the construction industry, has been taken to court by collections agencies and other companies more than a dozen times in the past decade. Since 2010, judgments or default judgments have been entered against him for debts totaling more than $30,000, according to court records. Those cases are now closed; however, six of the judgments, worth more than $10,000 total, remain unsatisfied, records show. Tuck said hes still working on paying some of the debts. Two surgeries left him partially immobile and disabled after a work-related injury crushed several discs in his spine sometime before 2013, he said. His family lost a car, nearly lost their home and cleared out their savings account. Bills continued to pile up as he dealt with health issues, he said. When youre disabled and income is fixed, you have to meet your obligations however you can. Sometimes decisions made are based on what your ability and current situation happen to be at the time, he said in an email, adding that it would be unfair to expect him to have a spotless past given the accident and other obligations hes had. The Colorado Department of Revenue also issued distraint warrants, allowing the seizure of property to pay off a debt, against him in 2011 and 2014 for about $8,000 in delinquent taxes, according to court records. The 2014 distraint warrant, for about $100, might have been a late fee, Tuck said. His accountant is still disputing the 2011 case because the taxes due are incorrect, he said. Aurora Federal Savings Bank filed a foreclosure against Tuck and his wife on their Colorado Springs home in July 2012. The foreclosure was withdrawn about five months later, according to the El Paso County Public Trustees website. Tuck attributed the foreclosure filing to an error by the bank. He and his wife refinanced their home loan with a new company, and that company paid off the $200,000 they owed, he said. In 1997, the mother of a 17-year-old-boy sought a restraining order against Tuck for her son. She alleged that Tuck, the father of one of her sons classmates, made false statements to police about her son, which led to the teenager being wrongfully charged with witness intimidation. Tuck forced her son to lie down on his property in 1996, put a shotgun to his head, and made racial derogatory remarks in 1996, she wrote in a court filing. Tuck said the teenager was associated with a gang and had threatened to beat up his son. While he did detain the teenager with a gun, he denied pointing the weapon at his head, he said. This person came onto our property and threatened harm to my son and myself, Tuck said, adding that he had the right to protect himself and his home. The restraining order was retaliation by the teenagers mother, who found out several days later that Tuck was going to seek charges against her son after a bullet was shot through the front window of Tucks home, he said. The protection order was never vacated, court records show. I knew all of this was public record, it didnt matter to me. I am interested in making sure that there is a strong effort to make certain that there are new faces and ideas coming to our City Council, Tuck said. Regina English A woman had a protection order against English after she alleged in a court filing that English and several other people had assaulted her in September 2016. The woman, who has a child with one of Englishs sons, had come to pick up her child when English called her demeaning names and slapped her, according to the complaint filed in 2016. Others then punched the womans face, kicked her head, pulled her hair and dragged her on the ground until English told them to stop, the woman claimed in the filing. English, the founder of a nonprofit that serves at-risk youth, denied the allegations. She said that there was an altercation that day, and she and her family werent involved, but were in danger. The boyfriend of the woman who sought the protection order was also there, and when English refused to allow the child to go with the couple, he began shooting a gun, she said. Charges were never filed against the woman, court records show. The Gazette could not confirm if her boyfriend was charged. The incident resulted in Englishs family being wrongfully dragged through the courts for the last two years and forced to pay thousands of dollars in legal fees, she said. The protection order was never vacated. The system is so unbalanced, and its lopsided and I will say against people of color, because thats what it is, English said. Ive never, ever been in any trouble in my life. Or been in any trouble since then. The Colorado judicial system is absolutely ridiculous. And something needs to be done. Tony Gioia Army veteran and former El Paso County planning commissioner Tony Gioia also has had financial difficulties. In 2014, Gioias home was under foreclosure with a loan amount of more than $175,000 outstanding. I had been laid off at my previous job, this was still during the recession, Gioia said. I was unemployed for a little over a year. Finding work was difficult but I managed to get a new job. After finding a new job, Gioia said he was able to make up overdue payments and retain ownership of his home. I dont have anything left that is outstanding, he said. The foreclosure and several other financial difficulties were learning experiences that now help him relate to many Colorado Springs residents, who faced similar challenges, Gioia said. I have actually gone through times in my life where Ive had financial difficulty and worked my way out of it, he said. My wife and I have done quite well over the past five, six years. I got out of that situation and we have made a good life for ourselves. In the early 2000s, Gioia acknowledged he was taken to court for outstanding debts and had settlements against him for around $2,000. But, he added, those cases were years ago and he hasnt faced collections for unpaid debts for quite some time. Wayne Williams Former Colorado Secretary of State Wayne Williams is under investigation by the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission. A complaint filed in October claims that Williams reimbursed himself $35 for continuing legal education in July 2018. Hes also accused of using a state credit card to pay for annual membership dues to the state Bar Association in July 2016, July 2017 and June 2018, totaling $1,270. In addition, Williams is accused of using his offices discretionary fund to buy $2,427.86 worth of clothes between 2015 and 2017. Those older complaints arent under investigation by the commission because the agency only reviews allegations that took place within a year of the complaints filing. Williams denied wrongdoing related to the investigation, calling it a campaign stunt stemming from the 2018 election. He noted that past secretaries of state received the same benefits. The office has a longstanding policy of paying bar dues, Williams said. And the stipulated facts say that we followed the office policy. Gordon Klingenschmitt Gordon Klingenschmitt was convicted of a misdemeanor in a Navy court-martial and involuntarily separated from the armed forces with an honorable discharge after he participated in a religious observance in 2006 in Lafayette Park across from the White House and said a prayer while in uniform. Klingenschmitt noted that he demanded his court-martial to make them enforce the prayer policy, which they (the military) did, and the publicity inspired 300,000 petitions to Congress, which rescinded the same bad prayer policy for which I had been punished, so now other chaplains have freedom again to pray in Jesus name as I did not. Lawrence Martinez Mayoral candidate Lawrence Martinez, who also ran for mayor in 2015, has a history of restraining orders being filed against him. Martinez said one order was the result of a heated domestic relationship rather than a physical altercation. Martinez pleaded not guilty in 2001 to violating a restraining order obtained by his then-wife that year, The Gazette previously reported. She filed for divorce weeks later. In early 2002, Martinez said he was convicted of violating that restraining order, a misdemeanor, and was sentenced to 24 months of probation, which ended in 2004. The restraining order was later dropped by the judge, Martinez said. Martinezs ex-wife obtained another restraining order against him in 2008, which was vacated that November. Martinez told The Gazette he still sees his ex-wife and has a good relationship with her. Both orders were temporary and ultimately vacated, he said. Juliette Parker In 2014, mayoral candidate Juliette Parker was charged in U.S. District Court with larceny and trespassing at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state. She said she was hiking and unaware she was on military property when she found old ammunition including rifle bullets on the ground and picked it up, intending to throw it away. She said that at home, one of the bullets spontaneously fired, leading police to respond. She pleaded guilty to misdemeanor illegal burning and paid a $200 fine, she said. If youre nutty for Colorado-grown fruits and veggies, a bill headed to the governors desk could prove mighty sweet. House Bill 1191 could help farm stands sprout across the state by knocking out layers of regulation. With Gov. Jared Polis approval, no longer would one have to buy a Palisade peach on property officially zoned for agriculture, for example. And the size of the parcel where the produce is put up for sale wont matter, a local requirement that often favors larger sellers or more commercialized operations than a farmer with a few baskets. Local governments could still require a permit or license, however, but the new law would remove some of the discouraging red tape between growers and consumers. The bills sponsors hope the change will benefit farmers and those who want to eat healthy and buy local. The bill passed the state Senate, 35-0, this week and the House, 62-0, on March 8. The sponsors are Sen. Kerry Donovan, D-Vail, and Rep. Jeni Arndt, D-Fort Collins, who chair the Senate and House agriculture committees, respectively. I am a proud rancher, but too much unnecessary regulation prohibits many farms and ranches from selling what they produce, Donovan said in a statement. This legislation will support those small businesses and let locals buy directly from the farm or ranch. The farm stand deregulation law would take effect July 1, just in time to cash in on Colorado cucumbers, cabbage and blueberries. Contact Joey Bunch at joey.bunch@coloradopolitics.com or follow him on Twitter @joeybunch. The Army conducted an aerial assault on the campus of the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs last week as recruiters battle to overcome the biggest shortfall in 14 years. The college effort was part of a campaign thats putting more recruiters on the streets and offering bigger enlistment bonuses after the service came in 20,000 recruits below its goals for the active-duty Army and its Reserve and National Guard components in the fiscal year that ended October 1. Capt. Wes Barber, who oversees Army recruiters in Colorado Springs, said new outreach plans are showing promise even as the Army faces conditions that make recruiters cringe rising wages and historically low unemployment. Were doing OK, he said, while standing next to an attention-grabbing UH-60 helicopter flown into the center of the UCCS campus. A small number of students gathered around in the early going with more expected later. The recruiting crisis has had an impact in the ranks, with soldiers from Fort Carson to the Colorado National Guard complaining that units are undermanned. Experts remain worried that the Army could face another tough year in 2019 as the service lacks a luster for high-tech millennials who are drawn to the higher pay and more flexible lifestyle found in the civilian world. They need to admit that military service isnt very attractive at the moment, said Tim Nichols, who teaches counterterrorism and public policy at Duke University in North Carolina. Booming economies have traditionally made it hard to fill Army ranks. From the dot-com boom of the 1990s to the real estate bubble years of the mid-2000s, the Army doesnt get as many young people signing up when jobs elsewhere offer lucrative alternatives. And recruiting for the all-volunteer Army is tougher in wartime when parents are more likely to counsel their children against taking the risks that accompany serving in uniform. The Army has ruled out its go-to solution for recruiting woes. At the height of the Iraq war in 2005, when Army recruiting had similar shortfalls to those seen today, recruiters got to lower standards, taking in recruits who would otherwise be deemed undereducated, overweight or morally unfit. Those high standards are what drew Barber and his crew to UCCS. Were looking for high school graduates, especially those who want to get out of student debt, he said. The average college student who graduated in 2018 carried more than $30,000 in loans. Barber was offering bonuses of up to $40,000 and the GI Bill to undergraduates worried about their financial futures. The bonuses and tuition help are part of a program that is recommended by retired Army Lt. Gen. Thomas Spoehr, who heads Heritage Foundations Center for National Defense in Washington. Spoehr said the Army must offer more incentives, not necessarily monetary, for people to enter service. For the Army, bonuses are a huge drawing card. The average soldier signing up can count on putting at least $10,000 in the bank if they can ship out quickly enough. Those headed for highly technical fields, like code-breaking, can get even more cash. The Army has also changed how soldiers can save for the future, with 401k-like retirement plans augmenting old offerings that required troops to spend 20 years in uniform. But those changes might not be enough for the Army to catch the eye of the latest generation. One thing we need to realize is that American youth is changing, and the military changes much more slowly, Nichols said. Recruiting is actually a relatively recent problem for the modern American military. From World War I through Vietnam, the Armys ranks were filled out with draftees. Americas last draft was in 1973. Its end brought immediate recruiting problems. Some of the early efforts to recruit and retain troops in the 1970s seem comical. Fort Carson in those days brought in beer vending machines and topless dancers to entice volunteers. Since then, the Army built a sophisticated marketing effort that highlights college benefits, bonuses and personal growth. It has mostly worked, with a few notable exceptions. But some worry that those techniques may also be outdated. The youths of today do have a bent for helping others, but may not see the Army as the right tool, Nichols said. And this generation had its first exposure to technology in the crib and may not be willing to trade that passion in for a rifle, he warned. The service formed a professional video gaming team last year, and even released a hip-hop music video. And its latest push is sending recruiters into Americas hippest cities, with Seattle and Los Angeles hitting that list alongside Denver. That move could pay off Nichols said. It depends whether hipsters decide the Army is cool, Nichols said. Spoehr said the service must empower more national spokespersons on the virtue of public service. Barber said recruiters are more optimistic this spring, but admitted there hasnt been a stampede of recruits. Trying to get the word out is difficult, Barber said of the Armys latest bonus programs. But there is one thing almost certainly coming that will help the Army fill its ranks: a changing economic cycle. While good economic times have traditionally slowed recruiting, recessions have always boosted Army ranks, Nichols said. Its a hard job, but it brings a steady paycheck. In bad economies, the Army is a lot more attractive, he said. Contact Tom Roeder: 636-0240 Twitter: @xroederx Grand Old Partisan honors Schuyler Colfax, born in New York City this day of 1823. His father dying before his birth, he attended only three years of school before clerking at a store to help support his mother and grandmother. Age thirteen, he moved to Indiana with his mother and her new husband. Despite a lack of formal education, Colfax read assiduously and made of himself a talented writer. Horace Greeley named him, just sixteen, a correspondent for the New York Tribune. Three years later, he became editor of the state's foremost Whig newspaper, and in another three year bought a controlling interest. Colfax campaigned for Henry Clay in 1844 and was delegate to the 1848 Whig National Convention. His opposition to a ban against African-Americans entering the state narrowly cost him election for Congress. He won an 1854 rematch, as candidate of the People's Party, soon to reconstitute itself as the Indiana GOP. The affable legislator won seven terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. An influential speech during his first re-election campaign warned that slavery for African-Americans would lead to bondage for poor whites, too. "Mr. Colfax took an active part in the debate, giving and receiving hard blows with all the skill of an old gladiator." Abraham Lincoln counted him among his few confidantes on Capitol Hill. In 1863, Colfax was elected Speaker of the House. He broke precedent by casting a vote, for the GOP's 13th Amendment abolishing slavery. Hours before the Ford's Theater tragedy, the President refused his request to call Congress into special session. Page eighty-seven of Back to Basics for the Republican Party explains this was also tragic, since Lincoln's death left the presidency in the hands of a racist Democrat, Andrew Johnson, unencumbered by the Republican-controlled Congress. Postwar, the Speaker aligned himself with Radical Republicans, while maintaining ties with moderates. The 1868 Republican National Convention nominated him as Ulysses Grant's running mate. They won, narrowly. Involvement in the Credit Mobilier scandal caused him to be dropped from the re-election ticket. In later years, Colfax worked as bank executive and public lecturer. Age sixty-one, he died of a heart attack after walking nearly a mile in 30-degrees-below-zero Minnesota to catch a train. Schuyler - one of the nation's first 'cow towns' - is the seat of Colfax County, Nebraska; and there is also a Colfax County, New Mexico. Here is a Video Version of this article on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7OTqqL1xPgE Michael Zak is author of Back to Basics for the Republican Party, a history of GOP civil rights achievement. Each day, Michael Zak's grandoldpartisan YouTube channel and Grand Old Partisan blog celebrate more than sixteen decades of Republican heritage. And, see Speech Raves for audience feedback from his presentations in thirty-one states so far. He also wrote the 2005 Republican Freedom Calendar. Clarence Thomas cited Back to Basics for the Republican Party in a Supreme Court decision. Buy the book at Amazon "This is the most amazing book about politics that I have ever read. The Overview should be required reading for anyone with even a minor interest in government. The remainder is an enthralling history lesson that I will never forget. For years, we have all been misled about the true nature of the GOP. This is the real deal! Read it and be proud!" "Michael Zak wrote the definitive history of the GOP." "Back to Basics for the Republican Party is the most significant contribution to the Republican Party in the last twenty years apart from Ronald Reagan." "Back to Basics for the Republican Party is more important to our party now than ever before." and "one of the best books I ever read" " " Quinn Gerlach, 5, plays with his grandfather, Howard Broadman, in Laguna Niguel, California. Broadman came up with an idea of donating a kidney to a stranger today and getting a voucher for his grandson to use some day. UCLA Health More than 100,000 people in the United States alone are currently waiting for a kidneytransplant, with 3,000 added to the tally every month. The numbers are daunting, but a new kidney "gift certificate" program launched at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center hopes to someday turn such statistics into a distant memory. The premise is simple, and was inspired by a California man's wish to help his grandson while he was still physically able. Howard Broadman's grandson, Quinn, was born with just one diseased kidney. Advertisement "I know Quinn will eventually need a transplant, but by the time, he's ready, I'll be too old to give him one of my kidneys," said Broadman, now 66, in a press release. "So I approached UCLA and asked, 'Why don't I give a kidney to someone who needs it now, then get a voucher for my grandson to use when he needs a transplant in the future?'" Thus, the program was born, and has since been put into play at additional transplant centers around the country. The effort is managed by the Advanced Donation Program (ADP) of the National Kidney Registry, and functions as a chain of sorts. Basically, a person donates a kidney, which is transplanted immediately into a patient in need. Then, when their loved one requires a transplant, another donor supplies the necessary kidney. "When the time comes for the transplant [for the loved one], they will move into the most probable list of donors with a chain of recipients," says Drew Schaar, spokesperson for the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center by email. So, Quinn is now covered in the event he should ever require a kidney. It's a win for him and a win for his grandpa, whose bright idea could turn the transplantation selection process right on its ear. According to a UCLA Health press release, there were only 5,538 living donor kidney transplants in the U.S. in 2014. The waiting list could be wiped out 15 times over if just 0.5 percent of the nation's adults became living kidney donors. This innovative program might also spur an increase in "altruistic" donors (people who donate kidneys to strangers rather than family members). Under the kidney voucher program, the altruistic donor could get a gift certificate that could be used if a loved one needed a kidney in the future. This would lessen the fear of donating a kidney today and then not having one available if a family member needed it later on. Now That's Interesting About 13 people per day die while waiting for a kidney, many of whom simply become too sick to be considered candidates anymore. " " Mike Mozart/Flickr/ CC BY 2.0 A strongly worded statement signed by more than 200 health professionals is calling for tighter limits on certain antibacterial chemicals. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the chemical triclosan from body wash and hand soaps in September 2016 because of a link to hormone disruption, asthma and other health concerns. But the chemical still persists in the United States as an ingredient in cosmetics, lotions, exercise mats, food storage containers, countertops, school supplies and even some toothpastes. So is it time to wash our hands of antimicrobial chemicals for good? According to more than 200 international scientists, medical professionals and government officials, the answer is a solid yes. In a statement affirming that common antimicrobial products don't provide the health benefits we once thought, the experts underline that some antibacterial substances damage human health and cause environmental harm. The "Florence Statement on Triclosan and Triclocarban," published in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Health Perspectives, urges avoidance of triclosan, triclocarban and other antimicrobial chemicals. Advertisement " " A shop assistant removes Colgate toothpaste from the shelves of a Chinese supermarket in 2005. U.S researchers at the time linked triclosan to a chemical reaction that could produce the cancer-causing chloroform gas. The antimicrobrial ingredient persists in many products today. China Photos/Getty Images The scientists and medical professionals supporting the statement say evidence shows that antimicrobials should only be used rarely, and only if testing can demonstrate they are safe for specific uses. Currently triclosan and triclocarban are approved for use in more than 2,000 products ranging from toys and kitchen tools to shampoos and toothpastes, according to environmental health organization Environmental Working Group (EWG). The chemicals, say medical professionals and the FDA, are no better at killing bacteria than plain soap and water and using them has given rise to "superbug" bacteria that resist antibiotics. In addition, chemicals like triclosan and triclocarban build up in the human body and can disrupt hormones, which can lead to a range of problems, including early onset puberty. An earlier study by EWG found triclosan and 15 other chemicals in the blood and urine of teenage girls from eight states and the District of Columbia, pointing to the inclusion of antimicrobial chemicals in cosmetics and skin care products. "Triclosan may be harming reproduction and development, and may make people more likely to have allergic reactions," says David Andrews, Ph.D., a senior scientist at EWG and co-author of the statement on triclosan and triclocarban, "but it is still found in everything from lotions to cutting boards to blankets." Now That's Interesting Wondering how to tell if a product contains triclosan or other antimicrobial chemicals? Some products, like fluoride toothpastes, are considered over-the-counter drugs and are required to list ingredients. If a cosmetic contains triclosan, it should be included in the ingredient list on the product label. 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. Ichabod explores the Age of Apostasy, predicted in 2 Thessalonians 2:3, with an emphasis on UOJ, Church Growth, and Emergent Church heresies. The antidote to these poisons is trusting the efficacious Word in the Means of Grace. John 16:8. Most readers are WELS, LCMS, ELS, or ELCA. This blog also covers the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodoxy, and the mainline denominations. 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 Governments apathy towards forensic sector affecting police investigation Incumbent and former police officials as well as forensic experts have expressed concern over the governments apathy towards the forensic sector, which they say has been hugely hampering investigations. In reference to the ongoing uprising and protests, he said, We surpassed a very adventurous year, and added, Our enemies had plans for the Iranian people. The people showed a strong response in the political and economic perspectives, he said further. He claimed that the February 11th gathering displayed the regimes popularity. In truth, the rally, which marked the regime 40th anniversary, was widely boycotted by the Iranian people. Economically, we have many issues, Khamenei said. The value of the national currency must be lowered. Peoples purchasing power must be higher. Difficulties involving factories and unemployment are among the huge issues and economic dilemmas facing his regime. I have studied these issues and listened to the experts. The key to all these issues is developing our national production, he said. We named last year, 1397, as the year of supporting Iranian products. I cant say this motto was completely implemented. However, I can say that this slogan was acknowledged at a wide scale, Khamenei claimed. He had previously announced that this Iranian calendar year, 1398, is to be the year of Production Growth. Khamenei said the Islamic Republic has successfully resisted the sanctions and called on the government to boost national production to face enemy pressures. If production is launched as it should, it can solve both our poor living standards and provide what we are in need of from foreigners, including countries that are our enemies. It can also resolve our unemployment and national currency issues to a significant extent, Khamenei added. In a pre-recorded speech broadcast on state television he said, In the face of severe, and according to them unprecedented, sanctions from America and Europe, the Iranian people showed a strong and powerful reaction both in the field of politics and economy. With remarks such as these, the regimes leader still cannot deny his deep concerns for the new year. In December, he had already warned that the enemys plans for Irans economy would be implemented during in 2019. More daughters are enrolled in public schools while sons are sent to private ones Starting 2016, girls have outnumbered boys in the Secondary Education Examination, in a clear indication that more and more parents are sending their daughters to school. Though female population has always remained higher than mens in the country, it reflected in the secondary schooling only three years ago. The many faces of travel Travel means movement, but the concept is all about the destination. Unless youre a train- or plane-lover, travel is not about the grind between sites. In the almost 5, 000km I travelled in Europe, I didnt spend more than three days in one location. I didnt spend more than 12 hours in some cities. I tried to fit in the most important locations, but a lot of my time ended up being research for the next place to stay. Scott Olson/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- The governor of Kentucky isnt the only notable politician to question the necessity of vaccines, but experts warn that such comments are not happening in a vacuum, and could be exacerbating the confusion. Gov. Matt Bevin said during a recent radio interview that he and his wife decided to take their nine children to so-called 'pox parties' to expose them to the chicken pox rather than having them vaccinated for the disease, and questioned why such vaccines are mandatory. "Why are we forcing kids to get it?" Bevin said of the chicken pox vaccine in the interview with WKCT, a radio station in Bowling Green. "If you are worried about your child getting chickenpox or whatever else, vaccinate your child. ... And in many instances, those vaccinations make great sense. But for some people, and for some parents, for some reason they choose otherwise," he said. "This is America. The federal government should not be forcing this upon people. They just shouldnt," Bevin said. In addition to taking issue with so-called pox parties, where parents bring their young children who have not been exposed to chicken pox over to the homes of children who have the disease in order to expose them without having to get the vaccine, Peter Hotez, a vaccine advocate and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, said that there are widespread implications for the governors comments. I think when the governor makes statements like he did, it erodes public confidence in vaccines, Hotez said. Remember this is not happening in isolation. If this was just a one-off statement, it wouldnt be so damaging, he said. Hotez points to the almost 500 anti-vaccine websites on the internet as part of the problem as well. The misinformation in the digital sphere has been cited as problematic before. When 18-year-old Ethan Lindenberger testified before a Congressional committee on March 5, discussing his experience getting himself vaccinated in spite of his mothers anti-vaccination beliefs, he said that the misinformation online played a role in her beliefs. "My mother would turn to anti-vaccine groups online and on social media, looking for her evidence in defense rather than health officials and through clinical sources," Lindenberger said. Daniel Salmon, the director of the Institute of Vaccine Safety at Johns Hopkins University, told ABC News in January how there are numerous legitimate-looking websites online for anti-vaccination organizations that have names very similar to the acronyms for several valid, official medical associations. "For me, I know the difference, but the average parent is never going to know the difference. They're pseudo-science," Salmon said, adding, "its not a coincidence" that the acronyms for the misinformation campaigns are close to those of valid groups. The CDC website has all the information you need but the problem is its very difficult for a non-health professional to mine the website, Hotez said, referring to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Social media platforms are taking some steps to reduce anti-vaccination groups online footprint. The Daily Beast reported Friday that GoFundMe is banning anyone raising money to spread misinformation about vaccines from using their platform. That step comes after Facebook and Instagram announced certain steps that they are taking in the same vein, but Hotez thinks that their efforts, as well as similar steps by Amazon, do not go far enough. What Facebook and Amazon are doing are taking cosmetic measures to give the appearance that they care and that they're doing something... but the steps they've taken thus far are meaningless, he said, adding that the most virulent anti-vaccine voices on social media are still pervasive. Hotez who has published a pro-vaccine book -- cites the number of phony books and phony doctors who have their books available for sale on Amazon, many of which are labeled as best sellers. The defense of vaccines in the United States is left to a handful of academics like myself, he said. Ruth Carrico, an associate professor in the infectious disease division at the University of Louisville, told ABC News that she was trying to give [Bevin] the benefit of the doubt after hearing his statements about whether or not vaccines should be mandatory. I think certainly its great to live in a country where we have free speech however I think the message that was conveyed was not a message of public health and certainly not one for the 21st century, Carrico said. I think the responsibility of a governor is to lead the people, and in leading the people you listen to the people and that means not only the general public but you also listen to the scientific evidence, she said. I think that it would be hard to find someone that would disagree with the statement that in the 21st century it is unacceptable for a child or adult to suffer or die from a disease that is vaccine preventable, she said. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. The scam from Kathmandu: an honest film review from an actual man from Kathmandu The story is a revenge plot reminiscent of 90s Bollywood. Bunty aka Faisal Mustafa (Jose Manuel) comes to Kathmandu to look for his father but the city is full of crime and the primary reason is politics. Dans la soiree du 15 mai 2018, les Mahorais sont pris de panique: un seisme de magnitude 5,8 sur lechelle de Richter vient de faire trembler leur ile. Depuis le 10 mai, Mayotte est soumise a des secousses regulieres. Et le phenomene n'est pas pres de s'arreter. Explications. A.L Un phenomene inedit a Mayotte Des seismes en essaim [Point essaim de seisme] 30/05/2018 La terre continue de trembler. Celui la, il etait de magnitude 5. Ca commence a devenir long, nan... #Mayotte pic.twitter.com/V9gAJrvOOE Abby Said Adinani (@Bee_Mondroha) 30 mai 2018 Quelles sont les causes? Les vulcanologues ont fait des modelisations et ont emis l'hypothese d'une possibilite d'activite volcanique qui aurait genere ce deplacement. - Frederic Tronel, directeur regional BRGM de Mayotte Un volcan sous l'eau? Une meilleure cartographie des fonds marins Deploiement de sismometres et campagne oceanographique la1ere Le 15 mai 2018, un tremblement de terre de magnitude 5,8 sur l'echelle de Richter vient secouer Mayotte. Ce n'est pas le premier de la journee.Sur les reseaux sociaux enfle la rumeur d'une prochaine grosse replique.De peur que leurs maisons ne s'effondrent -et vu qu'il n'y a pas de structures d'acceuil aux normes sismiques sur l'ile-les Mahorais se rassemblent dans la rue et sur les places publiques pour passer la nuit a la belle etoile."S'il y a des degats, au moins, on est tous dehors (...) On est en train de demander de l'aide a Allah, qu'il nous protege au cas ou il y a des secousses", confie une jeune fille ce soir-la.Et les Mahorais de se mettre a prier. N'oublions pas qu'a Mayotte, 101eme departement francais, 95% de la population est musulmane.Voila cinq jours que l'ile est soumise a des secousses regulieres. Et le phenomene ne va pas s'arreter: les Mahorais vont devoir apprendre a vivre avec.Pour rappel, a Mayotte, le dernier tremblement de terre depassant 5 sur l'echelle de Richter remontait a 1993.Islande, Japon... Le phenomene n'est pas exceptionnel a l'echelle mondiale, mais a Mayotte, si.Plus ou moins intenses, plus ou moins espaces: depuis le 10 mai, l'ile a ete frappee par plus de 1600 seismes d'une magnitude superieure a 3,5.Et depuis septembre, Mayotte connait en moyenne 5 seismes par jour depssant 3,5 sur l'echelle de Richter. Et par mois, entre 30 et 40 sont d'une magnitude egale ou superieure a 4."Avant , je sentais quand ca arrivait... Maintenant, je le sens, mais pas comme avant, c'est devenu la routine, on s'habitue", raconte un Mahorais.Bref, c'est devenu leur quotidien.Pour qualifier cette repetition reguliere de seismes , les scientifiques parlent deVu la situation de l'ile sur le Canal du Mozambique, c'est d'abord la causeque les scientifiques vont mettre en avant.Mais l'apparition d'une donnee va tout changer:Des juillet, l'ENS enregistre un deplacement et un affaissement de l'ile beaucoup plus important que la normale. Effectivement, les scientifiques decouvrent que Mayotte se deplace chaque mois de 14 mm vers l'Est et s'affaisse aussi de 6 mm.Faites le calcul: aujourd'hui, Mayotte s'est ecartee des cotes africaines d'au moins 15 cm et s'est enfoncee de 6 cm dans l'ocean.De quoi orienter les scientifiques dans leurs recherches. Tout se jouerait donc depuis les profondeurs marines . A environ 50 km a l'Est des cotes de Mayotte, des remontees de magma seraient a l'origine de tous ces seismes.Mais a quelle profondeur? La question demeure et il est encore impossible d'affirmer qu'il s'agit bel et bien d'une eruption volcanique.Neanmoins, en janvier 2019, un evenement semble aller dans ce sens: des pecheurs vont ramener dans leur filet des poissons morts que l'on trouve habituellement dans les tres grandes profondeurs ... Le meme phenomene s'etait produit a La Reunion en 2007 apres une eruption du Piton de la Fournaise. Mais pour le moment, rien de scientifiquement prouve.Cette hypothese volcanique parait vraisemblable, mais alors, pourquoi, dans ce cas, les scientifiques ne peuvent-ils pas la confirmer?En fait, cette crise met en lumiere la meconnaissance geologiques des fonds marins de la region.Jusqu'ici, l'activite sismique etant limitee sur Mayotte, les projecteurs etaient diriges ailleurs dans l'archipel des Comores.Nathalie Feuillet, geologue-tectonicienne a l'Institut Physique du Globe de Paris explique: " Le volcan actif dans la zone des Comores, c'est Le Karthala . Donc il y a beaucoup d'instruments installes sur Le Karthala, beaucoup d'etudes. Mais Mayotte n'etait pas consideree comme une zone ou on avait une activite sismique et volcanique importante avant."Pour y remedier, les Instituts Physiques du Globe de Paris et de Strasbourg, conjointement avec l'Observatoire du Piton de la Fournaise ont commence a deployer de nouveaux instruments dans la region.Six sismometres "fond de mer" (OBS) ont ete largues dans l'ocean a l'Est de Petite Terre fin fevrier. Quatre autres sismometres sont deployes sur terre : 3 a Mayotte et un sur l'archipel des Glorieuses.Regardez ce reportage de Mayotte la 1ere:Des le mois de mai, une campagne oceanographique a bord du Marion Dufresne devrait recuperer les premieres donnees. Avec, entre autres, pour objectif, de repositionner certains OBS qui seront a nouveau etudies en septembre.Un an apres le debut de la crise, les scientifiques devraient disposer d'une cartographie un peu plus precise de ces fonds oceaniques.Ils en sauront donc sans doute un peu plus sur ce qui fait trembler Mayotte...En 2020, une autre mission en haute mer est prevue pour analyser la geologie des fonds marins entre Mayotte, Madagascar et l'archipel des Comores.La derniere campagne oceanographique dans la region date de 2004. Your tax-deductible gift today powers our reporters and keeps us independent. We rely on you, our reader, not paywalls to stay funded because we believe important news and information should be freely accessible to all. Start your day with LAist Sign up for the Morning Brief, delivered weekdays. Subscribe The civilian commission that acts as a watchdog for the L.A. County Sheriff's Department has accused Sheriff Alex Villanueva of having "turned back the clock on reforms." In a sternly-worded March 18 letter, the Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission said the sheriff's actions and statements, as well as those of his staff, have "eroded community trust" in the department. The letter pointed to Villanueva's "legally questionable" reinstatement of Caren Carl Mandoyan, a deputy accused of domestic violence. It said the sheriff's handling of the case "invites cynicism about the [department's] commitment to real reform especially since steps were taken to reinstate the deputy before you were even sworn in." The letter criticized Villanueva's suggestion that restrictions on the use of force against jail inmates be rolled back. And it said the oversight panel's requests for information about deputy cliques suspected of operating as violent gangs "have been met with dissembling and stonewalling." Seven deputies filed legal claims earlier this month saying they've been intimidated and physically attacked by members of the Banditos gang of deputies at the department's East L.A. patrol station. The oversight panel's letter to Villaneuva said that when it requested documents regarding "management's knowledge of and attempts to address the cliques ...the [department] initially delayed responding and later produced a single, non-responsive report about street gangs. This is unacceptable." The letter acknowledged the sheriff's unit that handles such requests is "understaffed" but said commission requests are "a necessary component of our independent civilian oversight function." It said the panel cannot fulfill its mission "in any meaningful manner without timely and complete access to all relevant information." The commission had previously been frustrated by what it considered to be a lack of urgency on the part of former Sheriff Jim McDonnell to confront the issue of alleged deputy gangs. The letter to Villanueva was signed by Commission Chair Patti Giggans, Vice-Chair Priscilla Ocen and Executive Director Brian Williams. The sheriff did not immediately respond to a request for comment. "Instead of undoing existing reforms, the [department] should rightly be investigating and implementing more reforms, to decrease uses of force on the streets in addition to in the jails," the letter said. The panel has "worked collaboratively" with the [department] on issues ranging from increasing the number of the sheriff's mental evaluation teams to better compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act, the letter said. "These reforms are far more important than any level of politics and acrimony," it said. The [commission] is committed to continuing to push for reform in the [department] and we are hopeful that you will wholeheartedly join us in this effort." The commission invited Villanueva to attend its public meeting Tuesday to discuss the issues raised in the letter. He will be there, said department spokeswoman Nicole Nishida. Bhrikuti Rai is an investigative reporter for The Kathmandu Post, covering technology, environment and human rights. Before joining The Kathmandu Post in 2019, she was a reporter at Nepali Times and South Asia Check. She loves all things audio, and is co-creator of the Boju Bajai podcast. Friday, March 22, 2019 Earlier this week, the Supreme Court granted cert in a new immigration case, Kansas v. Garcia. The issues presented in the case: (1) Whether the Immigration Reform and Control Act expressly pre-empts the states from using any information entered on or appended to a federal Form I-9, including common information such as name, date of birth, and social security number, in a prosecution of any person (citizen or alien) when that same, commonly used information also appears in non-IRCA documents, such as state tax forms, leases, and credit applications; and (2) if IRCA bars the states from using all such information for any purpose, whether Congress has the constitutional power to so broadly pre-empt the states from exercising their traditional police powers to prosecute state law crimes. Here is how Amy Howe on SCOTUSBlog describes the case: "In Kansas v. Garcia, the justices will review a ruling by the Kansas Supreme Court that reversed the convictions of Ramiro Garcia and two other defendants for identity theft after they used other peoples Social Security numbers. The federal Immigration Reform and Control Act bars employers from knowingly employing undocumented immigrants. The act also requires employees to verify that they are eligible to work in the United States by submitting a Form I-9, and it strictly limits the use of information on or attached to a Form I-9. Because the Social Security numbers that the defendants were using appeared on their I-9s, the state court reasoned, the prosecution was trumped by the IRCA, even if the Social Security numbers also appeared on the defendants tax-withholding forms. The justices asked the U.S. solicitor general to weigh in last spring, and in December the federal government agreed with Kansas that the court should review the case. Even if states cannot use the information contained in a Form I-9, the government contended, they can still prosecute someone using information from other documents. Today the court announced that it had granted Kansas request for review; the case is likely to be argued in the fall." https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/immigration/2019/03/supreme-court-grants-cert-in-identity-fraudimmigration-case.html Friday, March 22, 2019 The Iowa Supreme Court imposed a suspension rather than a proposed license revocation In this matter, the Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board brought a series of charges against attorney Eric Parrish related to his handling of a payment made by a client that the Board alleged was for the specific purpose of paying the cost of preparing a transcript on appeal. The Iowa Supreme Court Grievance Commission found that Parrish failed to use the funds to pay for the transcript as instructed by his client and, instead, converted the funds for his own use. The commission recommended revocation of Parrishs license. For the reasons stated below, we agree with the commission that Parrish violated ethical rules and suspend his license. Priors Eric Parrish is a licensed Iowa attorney. He was admitted to practice in 1999. Parrish received ten private admonitions between 2001 and 2013. On three occasions, the private admonitions related to Parrishs failure to provide his clients with itemization of services following his receipt of retainers. On three other occasions, he was privately admonished for neglect when his failure to pay filing fees or take other action caused dismissal of proceedings. On two occasions, he received private admonitions for withdrawing retained funds in excess of fees earned from his trust account. On another occasion, he allowed trust funds in a settled case to fall below the amount of a lien on the settlement funds, thereby failing to protect the rights of a third party to funds in his possession. He was also admonished for neglect in failing to notify clients of an adverse court decision and to inquire as to whether they wished to appeal. Although private admonitions are not discipline, they put a lawyer on notice of deficiencies regarding ethical requirements. On the public side of the ledger are three reprimands and a 60-day suspension. The fighting issue as to sanction Before we analyze the individual charges brought by the Board, we present an overview of relevant caselaw. In particular, we note that the caselaw establishes that there is a question whether a colorable future claim in funds provides a potential defense for alleged misappropriation or conversion of client funds entrusted to an attorney for a particular purpose. At the outset, we note that in cases involving misappropriation of client funds, we generally impose the severe sanction of revocation... On the other hand, the failure to follow the rules governing retainer fees normally results in a less severe sanction. Thus The critical difference between whether a lawyer has committed theft, thereby inviting license revocation, or merely violated trust account requirements that may result in a lesser sanction, often depends upon whether the attorney had a colorable future claim to the funds. See Iowa Supreme Ct. Atty Disciplinary Bd. v. Carter, 847 N.W.2d 228, 232 (Iowa 2014). While the Board has the burden of showing that a misappropriation of funds occurred, the attorney has the burden of providing evidence of a colorable future claim to the funds. Cepican, 861 N.W.2d at 844 Here, the payment was for a specific purpose This factual distinction is consequential. If the funds given to him on April 28 were a retainer to pay for attorney fees, Parrish could at least argue that he had a colorable future claim of right in the funds for work to be done on the appeal, thereby lessening the possibility of receiving harsh sanctions. Carter, 847 N.W.2d at 233. On the other hand, if the funds were given to Parrish for a particular purpose, any future claim of right would be undermined. See id. at 23334. While a lawyer might be able to claim that the premature withdrawal of retainer funds was only a question of timing when there was a future claim of right to the funds, that argument is more difficult to make when the funds given to the lawyer have a restricted use that does not include payment of attorney fees. See id. We think it abundantly clear that Ware advanced the $2467.50 for the specific purpose of paying for the transcript for her appeal in the custody matter. Wares testimony was firm and consistent on this point. Further, it is striking that the check was made out in the exact amount to the penny requested by the court reporter and Ware specifically wrote Transcript Fees on the memo line of the check. Moreover, Wares understanding of the urgency of obtaining transcript funds is reflected by Wares successful effort to convince her grandmother to advance to Ware money from her income tax refund to pay for it. No general retainer agreement We conclude, based on our examination of the entire record, that Parrish did not have a general retainer agreement with Ware at any time. In fact, there was no written agreement between Ware and Parrish. In the text messages with Ware, Parrish simply referred to the fee arrangement as a flat fee. The text messages never used the term retainer and made no mention of a limited term for representation. Ware and Parrish simply agreed to a flat fee of $5000 for the custody modification trial and, later, $2500 for the appeal. The violations Based on our review of the record, it is clear that Parrish knew the funds given to him by Ware on April 28, 2016, were for a limited purpose. Nonetheless, he cashed the check on the day it was received, did not place the funds in trust, and did not pay the court reporter for the preparation of the transcript needed for the appeal. There is no question that by using the transcript funds for other than their intended purpose, Parrish violated ethical rules related to proper handling of client funds. In order to determine whether Parrish violated rule 32:8.4(b) and (c), however, we must consider whether Parrish has validly asserted a colorable future claim of right to the funds... In this case, Ware did not pay the funds to Parrish as a retainer for future attorney fees. The funds were provided for the specific purpose of paying for the transcript and not paying for future fees. The question of conversion of the funds is not one of mere timing, but of substance. Under the circumstances, we do not think the future claim of right doctrine is applicable. There is no future claim of right to use funds provided for a particular purpose to instead pay for attorney fees a lawyer reasonably believes will be incurred in the future. While he had no present colorable claim Yet, we are concerned that our prior cases at least suggested that a future colorable claim of right might prevent a finding of misappropriation or theft. With a musical flourish "From This Moment On" In the disciplining process, we believe lawyers are entitled to fair notice of what might lead to serious discipline, particularly when license revocation is a potential sanction. See Cepican, 861 N.W.2d at 844. Because our prior cases suggested but did not clearly and unequivocally hold that a future colorable claim of right was not a defense to a claim of theft of misappropriation when limited use client funds are involved, we decline to find, in this case, that a theft or misappropriation occurred. At the time he cashed the check for transcript fees, Parrish had a future colorable claim of right that exceeded the amount of the check. We therefore consider Parrishs transgression as involving violations of our trust account regulations involving safekeeping of client funds. Carter, 847 N.W.2d at 232. We want to make it clear, however, that in future cases concerning specific purpose funds, a future colorable claim of right will not be a defense to a charge of theft or misappropriation. In that sense, our holding here is prospective only. As revocation is off the table the lengthy nature of Parrishs disciplinary record; the multiple nature of his violations and the relationship of the violations to past misconduct; his experience as an attorney; his resistance to the processes before the commission; his knowledge of his own wrongdoing, coupled with his refusal to admit wrongdoing or show remorse are important aggravating factors in imposing discipline. ...we suspend Parrish from the practice of law indefinitely with no possibility of reinstatement for two years from the date of this opinion. (Mike Frisch) https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2019/03/the-iowa-supreme-court-imposed-in-this-matter-the-iowa-supreme-court-attorney-disciplinary-board-brought-a-series-of-charge.html Friday, March 22, 2019 The New Hampshire Professional Conduct Committee recommends a three-year suspension of an attorney with 18 months stayed. The attorney has been retained to defend a lawsuit and had neglected the matter which resulted in a "chain of broken promises...and lies he told [one of the clients that] only came to life [sic light] at the tail end of the proceedings. in an ill-executed effort to prevent a sheriffs sale of his clients personal assets." He falsely attributed his failures to properly defend the matter to the "most corrupt backwards shit I've seen in my years as an attorney" and unfairly characterized opposing counsel as "assholes" and "shitheads." The committee rejected mitigations based on sleep apnea. (Mike Frisch) https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2019/03/the-new-hampshire-professional-conduct-committee-recommends-a-three-year-suspension-of-an-attorney-with-18-months-stayed-th.html Until recently, when scientists studied cells from people and animals, they often had to examine large samples, producing an average of results from many kinds of cells. The process was like trying to learn about bananas by studying a smoothie -- a drink made from different types of fruit. In recent years, scientists have developed methods that let them directly study the activity of cells and the genetic structure of individual cells. These techniques are now widely used and have provided information about how living organisms grow and develop. The techniques could also help scientists develop new treatments for diseases. Single-cell revolution A cell is any one of the very small parts that together form all living things. Cells each take on a job and work with their neighbors. In human beings, an average adult has around 37 trillion cells. Single-cell analysis is the term for a group of techniques that scientists have developed for isolating, or separating, cells from living organisms. Scientists can study genetic material in each cell and learn about the relationships between cells. The result, notes the journal Science, is that researchers can follow the development of people and other organisms in incredible detail. Francis Collins is the director of the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, a medical research agency that is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Collins recently noted the importance of such techniques for understanding human beings. Single-cell analysis is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of our biology and health, he said. In fact, the journal Science named the techniques that permit single-cell tracking of gene activity as its breakthrough of the year for 2018. The single-cell revolution is just starting, the publication declared. More precise questions Jonathan Weissman is a stem cell biologist at the University of California, San Francisco. He notes that single-cell analysis lets scientists ask much more detailed, exacting questions than they could in the past. Its like a flight recorder, where you are watching what went wrong and not just looking at a snapshot at the end, he said. We can ask questions at a resolution that was just not possible before. Nicholas Navin is a professor with the MD Anderson Cancer Center at the University of Texas. He uses single-cell DNA studies to discover patterns of mutations in cells of a cancerous tumor. These studies let Navin recreate when and where those mutations appeared as the tumor developed. That information helps him identify cells that contain combinations of mutations that make them the most deadly. In the future, such research could be used to help identify what treatments to use for certain patients, Navin said. The research might also help doctors follow how well their treatments are working against a cancer over time. Ten to 20 years from now, Navin notes, doctors might be able to find cancers very early by identifying and studying the DNA of rare cells in blood tests. Atlas of Cell Types The ability to produce single-cell results for hundreds of thousands of cells at a time has created other new possibilities for researchers. One research group, the Human Cell Atlas Consortium, is creating a detailed listing of human cells. The research group, made up of more than 1,000 scientists from 57 countries, estimates it will eventually list at least 10 billion cells found in both healthy and sick people. Aviv Regev is a biology professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a co-organizer of the project. Regev notes that the gene map has led scientists to identify genetic variants that raise or lower the risk of many diseases. But to turn this information into treatments, scientists must know in which cells those variants act. We have to map all of them, she said. Regev hopes for a first version of the planned cell atlas in about five years. To finish the job might take about 10 years, she estimates. This is not going to cure all disease immediately, she said, but it is a critical stepping stone. Im John Russell. John Russell adapted this story from the Associated Press. George Grow was the editor. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story analyze v.to study (something) closely and carefully; to learn the nature and relationship of the parts of (something) by a close and careful examination breakthrough n. a sudden increase in knowledge or understanding; an important discovery that happens after trying for a long time to understand or explain something mutation n. biology change in the genetic structure of a plant or animal that causes physical qualities that are different from what is normal DNA n. short for deoxyribonucleic acid.the carrier of genetic information pattern n. a model suggested for copying; something designed or used as a model variant n.one of two similar, but somewhat different things sample n.a representative part of something or a single object from a larger group U.S. President Donald Trump has approved an order linking free speech efforts at colleges and universities in the United States to federal money. Trump signed the executive order last Thursday at the White House. The measure directs public universities to create and enforce protections for students to express themselves freely. Under the order, schools have to promise to support the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects free speech rights. But legal experts have noted that education institutions receiving federal money are already required to do this. Private U.S. universities have more flexibility in limiting speech at their schools. The new executive order requires them to set up their own rules for free speech. The measure requires colleges to support a right protected under the constitution in order to receive federal research and educational money. U.S. colleges and universities receive billions of dollars in federal money each year, including more than $30 billion for research. Even as universities have received billions and billions of dollars from taxpayers, many have become increasingly hostile to free speech and to the First Amendment, Trump said during a signing ceremony. These universities have tried to restrict free thought, impose total conformity and shut down the voices of great young Americans. Trump administration officials have suggested that, in the past, some students have violated the rights of people visiting colleges to speak. The officials claimed that individuals with conservative values have been unfairly targeted. Trump announced his plans for his free speech order earlier this month during a speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington. At the event, Trump spoke about the case of activist Hayden Williams. Williams was hit during a visit to the University of California, Berkeley, in February. He went to the university to sign up students for a conservative group. Enforcement of the executive order will be left to federal agencies that award federal money. White House officials did not announce details about how schools will be monitored and what kinds of violations could lead to a loss in federal aid. Many colleges had already spoken out against the need for such an order before Trump signed it, and there was more criticism after the signing ceremony. Janet Napolitano, president of the University of California system, denied there is a problem with free speech at U.S. colleges and universities. In fact, she said many schools are ground zero for the free exchange of ideas. We do not need the federal government to mandate what already exists: our longstanding, unequivocal support for freedom of expression, Napolitano said. The American Association of State Colleges and Universities said in a statement that public schools already fully support free expression. The group added that the presidents order does not - and cannot - add to or subtract from our pre-existing obligations under the Constitution. The American Council on Education, which represents more than 1,700 college presidents, called the order a solution in search of a problem. Some U.S. student groups have called for restrictions on speech that is considered hateful or could incite violence. In a study published last year, a majority of American college students said they valued diversity more than protecting free speech. The study involved over 3,000 students across the country. They were asked how much they valued diversity and free speech. One question was: If you had to choose, which do you think is more important? About 53 percent of the students chose a diverse and inclusive society over protecting free speech rights. Im Bryan Lynn. Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from the Associated Press and Reuters. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story flexibility n. willing to change or to try different things impose v. force someone to accept conformity n. following rules or traditional ways of doing things monitor v. watch something carefully and record the results mandate n. officially require something unequivocal adj. completely clear and certain subtract v. take away from something obligation n. something that must be done because of a law, rule, promise, etc. diversity n. the state of having people who are different races or who have different cultures in a group or organization World Health Organization experts said last week it would be irresponsible for any scientist to do human gene-editing studies in people. They also called for a central registry of gene-editing studies to make sure scientists are open and honest about their work. The WHO group was set up three months ago after a Chinese scientist announced he had edited the genes of twin babies. They met for the first time last Tuesday in Geneva, Switzerland. The group said it had agreed on a way to set rules for gene-editing research. It also asked the WHO to start setting up a registry for such studies immediately. The committee will developguidance for all those working on this new technology said the WHOs chief scientist, Soumya Swamanathan. Last year, a Chinese scientist claimed to have edited the genes of two baby girls. They were born to the same mother in the same pregnancy. News of the births led to condemnation from around the world. Many people believed it might be the start of designer babies, children whose genes have been edited to give them desirable traits or qualities. Scientists and ethicists from seven countries called recently for a suspension of gene editing that would result in genetically-altered babies. They warned the process could have permanent and possibly harmful effects on human beings. The WHO group said in a statement that any human gene editing work should be done for research only. It also said trials of gene-editing should not be done on humans. The WHOs director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, welcomed the groups plans. Gene editing holds (great) promise for health, but it also poses some risks, both ethically and medically, he said. The group said it aims over the next two years to produce governance rules for national, local and international officials to make sure that human genome editing science progresses within agreed ethical limits. Im Susan Shand. The Reuters News Agency reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in this Story irresponsible adj. said or done with no sense of responsibility edit v. to make changes, correct mistakes ethics n. rules of behavior based on ideas about what is morally good and bad pose v. to put in place; to create Capital spending low despite simplified procurement process The government has been working to simplify the public procurement process in a bid to boost spending on development projects, but it has not been able to achieve the desired result mainly because local units are not connected to the e-government procurement system and an effective oversight agency is lacking. Stibiri Fiona of Uganda was born with the medical condition known as albinism. Her body lacks the natural dark brown or black coloring that is in the skin of many African people. As a result, she and others with the condition have unusually light skin, hair and eyes. In many countries, centuries-old beliefs about people with albinism create danger for those like Fiona. For while the medical cause is understood, the body parts of those with albinism are used in ceremonies that are said to bring wealth and good luck. People who want those body parts then attack individuals with the condition: cutting off their hair, fingers, arms, ears, and even murdering them. "Someone who abuses my nature, I feel so, so, so bad and so small. I feel like even shedding tears. I feel like going even to collect my mother in the grave to ask her why she produced me in such a color." Life is difficult for Ugandan women with albinism. One person who helps them is Nawejje Doreen Mayanja, who heads a group called Women and Children with Albinism. She works near the city of Kampala. "When you are qualified, it is a bit competitive to get a job. And just because most of these women were denied the chance to go to school, they are not educated, they are not empowered. You find they are living below the poverty line." Albinism is a genetic condition. In addition to having little coloring in the skin, people with albinism may have problems with their eyesight and are at a higher risk for skin cancer. Working as a primary school teacher, Fiona was married for eight years and has four children. Her husband asked her to stop working because he believed her albinism would make him rich. When that did not happen, she says his father ordered her to leave their home. Now she lives in a one-room house with her children. She has not been able to find a teaching job. "When I went there to apply for vacancies, they refused. They said children will fear you. Even other teachers looked at me as maybe a curse. So, as for now, I don't work." A 2017 United Nations report says that people with albinism face discrimination and barriers that prevent them from taking part equally in society. As a result, they are more likely to experience social exclusion and poverty. Safia Nalule is a member of Ugandas legislature. She represents people with disabilities. On March 7, she offered a bill in parliament on the social, economic and cultural rights of people living with albinism. "I am bringing this bill, first of all, to ask for great awareness raising about persons with albinism. That they are not different from us. It is only a genetic disorder which actually brings about albinism." Albinism in other African countries The World Health Organization reports that albinism is found in 1 out of 3,000 Ugandans. Few people with albinism are killed in the country. But a report by the Ugandan parliament says many are taken by force to Tanzania and parts of Kenya for human sacrifice. Uganda is not the only country where people with albinism are asking for their rights. Nearby in Malawi, 300 people, most of them with albinism, demonstrated in the past week near the home of the president Peter Mutharika. The demonstrators wanted to meet with him to discuss the killing of people with albinism. Im Jill Robbins. Halima Athumani reported on this story for VOA News. Jill Robbins adapted her report for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story shed v. to cause to flow grave v. a place where human remains are buried primary adj. of or related to the teaching of children qualify v. to demonstrate ones skill or ability for a special purpose exclusion n. to prevent someone from doing something or being a part of a group awareness n. understanding that something is happening Are people with albinism accepted in your country? What do you think of their efforts to gain their rights in Uganda and Malawi? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section. scholarship, news and new ideas in legal history When Microsoft announced earlier this month that it was open sourcing the Windows Calculator app for Windows 10, it honestly didnt seem like that big of a deal. Its a calculator app, after all. But unlike some of the companys past efforts to release old software under an open source license for educational and historical purposes, the newly open sourced Windows Calculator is a live project that community members can actively contribute to. And theyre doing that. In fact, it looks like Microsoft is already marking one proposal as pre-production, which means that you could eventually see graphing capabilities added to Windows Calculator. Other proposals under consideration include: Its unclear if or when any of these or the dozens of other features will make it into the shipping version of Windows Calculator, but now that its an open source project development and discussion is taking place in public,. You can also see pull requests, issues, and other information at github. via MSPowerUser and HTNovo Footwear imports double as domestic exports stagnate The import bill on footwear surged over two fold to Rs533 billion during the mid-July to mid-February period, mainly with a notable rise in imports from China Holi was colourless and joyless for families of those martyred during the 2015 Madhes protests Ramjyoti Devi of Jagarnathpur in Birgunj-22, Parsa, did not celebrate Holi this year In fact, she has not been celebrating the festival since her son died almost four years ago :: link Dear Muslim family, As Buddhists, we bear witness to your suffering and grief, and offer prayers of deep metta to you across the world in the wake of the Christchurch massacre. Wherever Muslim kin may feel under threat, from New Zealand to Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tibet, India, Palestine, Turkistan, Thailand, Europe, the occupied US, and more, we offer love. We support your right to live free from fear, and we vow to confront anti-Muslim sentiment that might make you feel anything less than safe, beloved, and holy in this world. We share our prayers in recognition that white, Christian, or Hindu supremacy, colonization and occupation, or violent nationalism by any dominant group including Buddhists are systemic manifestations of the Three Poisons: greed, hatred, and delusion. We must work to uproot these poisons not just from within ourselves, but also where they sit in structures of oppression in society. Throughout space and time, people in our families have been on either side of such religiously-justified, angry nationalist violence attacked for our faith, attacking others, or both. Taking refuge in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, and joining movements for justice, may we continue to learn how to skillfully turn toward peace. This is our hope, and our deep commitment. With sadness, solidarity, and love in this time of grief, Thenmozhi Soundararajan, Equality Labs Dedunu Suraweera, Sri Lankan Buddhist Community on Staten Island Dorjee Tseten, Students for a Free Tibet Sonamtso, Students for a Free Tibet Myokei Caine-Barrett Shonin, Nichiren Shu Order of North America Ouyporn Khuankaew, International Womens Partnership for Peace and Justice Ravi Mishra, Awaken Meditation App Katie Loncke, Buddhist Peace Fellowship Mushim Ikeda, East Bay Meditation Center If you support this statement, we welcome you to sign your name by adding a comment below. (by following the link at the bottom of this post) Notes: Our signatures and affiliations do not necessarily represent organizational endorsement. We speak for ourselves, in a diversity of Buddhist lineages and social movement organizations to which we belong. We the undersigned are Buddhists who are not also Muslim; however, we want to honor and recognize those who do carry both traditions. :: link Rural roads in poor state; no respite for locals In Ramechhap, all roadsexcept the Manthali-Ramechhap stretchare in a poor condition Although the road network in the district has expanded its reach to all the previous 55 VDCs, the connectivity has done little to mitigate commuting woes of the local people. Snow-blocked Mid-hill Highway section opened after three months Transportation along the Panchase-Patihalna section of the Mid-hill Highway has resumed nearly after three months of obstruction caused by incessant snowfall. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Caucasians and Hispanics with diabetes have a greater risk of fracture compared to those without diabetes, while African Americans with diabetes have little to no additional fracture risk, according to a study to be presented Saturday, March 23 at ENDO 2019, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in New Orleans, La. "Diabetes has been associated with additional risk of fracture, but it had not been well studied in African Americans or Hispanics, the two racial-ethnic groups with the highest rates of diabetes in the United States," said lead researcher Rajesh Jain, M.D., of the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa. He noted that because of the additional fracture risk associated with diabetes, some medical groups have suggested additional osteoporosis screening or treatment to help prevent fractures in patients with diabetes. "This research could mean that African Americans with diabetes may not require the additional screening or treatment for osteoporosis that Caucasians or Hispanics with diabetes may require," Jain said. The researchers evaluated data from 19,153 people with diabetes (7,618 Caucasian, 7,456 African American and 4,079 Hispanic) and 26,217 people with hypertension (15,138 Caucasian, 8,301 African American, and 2,778 Hispanic), all at least 40 years of age. When controlling for other important factors, the risk of fracture in white and Hispanic people with diabetes was 23 percent higher than those without diabetes. However, the risk of fracture in African Americans with diabetes was not significantly different than those without diabetes. "This is a novel finding and has not been previously reported," Jain said. African Americans, regardless of whether they had diabetes, had more than 10-fold risk of a fracture if they had a fracture in the past, compared with about a two-fold increased risk in white and Hispanic people. "This suggests risk factors for fracture may differ in African Americans," Jain said. Explore further Age, race impact atherosclerotic risk with psoriasis After what seemed like a very cold (again with the "by San Diego standards" disclaimer) and wet winter; it seems like Spring might be here. The Missus got off early from work today and since I go in at 6am; I decided to leave a bit early as well. We headed up to North Park; parked the car, and hit up a couple of places. Two of which I've posted on numerous times....so maybe you might just want to grab your favorite beverage and hit the TV or enjoy the weather or do something else. If not; here's the rundown with minimal verbiage. Seven Grand: We've been here a couple of times. The Missus loves the vibe and ambiance. Everytime we've visited; the folks here were really awesome and knew their whiskey. Plus, they carry the Missus's favorite label, Kavalan, from, of all places Taiwan. And they do half pours.... More on how we came across Kavalan (it was in Paris!) in a future post. Seven Grand 3054 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104 We then headed up 30th Street and around the corner at ECB to..... Tiger! Tiger!: Of course. We decided to just get the half charcuterie board. Which always seems to be more than enough. Tiger! Tiger! 3025 El Cajon Blvd San Diego, CA 92104 Then further down 30th to Adams and of course.... Et Voila!: We hadn't been here since New Year's eve. So with a Huckleberry Bourbon under my belt. We finished up our Happy Hour with a couple of old standbys. Et Voila! 3015 Adams Ave San Diego, CA 92116 Happy Friday! " " The initial costs associated with the birth of your little one will be pretty significant. bephotographers/iStock/Thinkstock Having kids is expensive. And since you've probably already purchased things like a changing table, a crib, clothing and those first few batches of diapers, you know what we mean. But the good news is, you can budget for much of these initial cost if you plan properly. If you're lucky, you might even receive many of these necessary items as gifts from family and friends. The bad news is that many of the primary expenses that come with having a child (e.g., hospital care) are pretty major, especially if you're uninsured and don't qualify for Medicaid. Advertisement So let's assume you're choosing a standard hospital birth as opposed to anything out of the ordinary, like hiring a dolphin to midwife a water birth (yes, that's a thing) [source: Locker]. If that's the case, the factor that will most influence how much the birth will cost is whether you'll be delivering via cesarean or vaginal birth. Because cesareans tend to involve longer hospital stays, they're much more expensive; in 2010, the average total cost for maternity care for mother and baby, including pre- and postpartum care, was $51,125 for a cesarean birth and $32,093 for a vaginal birth [source: Truven]. Fortunately, a majority of the costs of childbirth are covered by private insurance or Medicaid, so make sure your insurance includes maternity coverage especially because the longer you stay in the hospital, the more it will cost. Commercial insurance tends to cover most of the cost of having a baby, but in 2010, the average out-of-pocket expenses were about $1,686 and $1,948 for vaginal and cesarean births, respectively [source: Truven]. And although that might seem expensive, now might actually be better than later if you're thinking of having a child. Out-of-pocket payments for maternal care have nearly quadrupled in the past decade in 2004, the average was only $463 for vaginal and $523 for cesarean births [source: Truven]. Those numbers are just median costs, though, and if you give birth in the United States, the price for your hospital stay will vary depending on where you live. For instance, in Louisiana, the allowed amount for maternal payments by commercial insurers was only $10,318 for vaginal births and $13,943 for cesareans. At the other end of the spectrum, Massachusetts averaged $16,888 for vaginal births for mothers with commercial health care providers, while Californians were charged an average $21,307 for cesareans. KEDC INCENTIVES KEDC agreed to provide more than $1.78 million to MGC if it meets performance standards. If MGC wishes to expand, KEDC will give it up to 15.758 additional acres, worth $577,026. KEDC initially has offered MGC: $540,144 in 12.4 acres of land Up to $486,000 in reimbursements for property tax payments Up to $500,000 in infrastructure improvements Up to $224,000 for job creation About $20,000 in permitting fees, unless the city waives the fees Up to $10,000 in closing costs Unspecified amount for the cost of subdividing the site. " " Women are often discriminated against in coding HowStuffWorks Headlines in recent years asked why the percentage of women majoring in computer science had dropped from 37 percent in 1985 to 18 percent in 2010. Now, new research provides one answer. A study shows that women's peers are less likely to accept their coding even when their work product is just as good as (or better than) a man's. A team from California Polytechnic State University and North Carolina State University took on the behemoth issue of gender bias by way of GitHub, a collaborative software development site with 10 million users, only about 1.4 million profiles of which are identifiable by gender. Users can make software code suggestions, called "pull requests," to projects being managed by other members. Advertisement Data analyzed by the researchers found that pull requests offered by female programmers whose gender was publicly available were only accepted 62.5 percent of the time, as compared with a 71.8 percent acceptance rate from women whose gender was not known. This is in stark contrast with the overall numbers, which suggest higher acceptance of pull requests made by women whose gender was unknown, but who'd already developed a solid reputation on previous projects (78.6 percent accepted), as compared with those made by men in the same boat (74.6 percent accepted). "Surprisingly, our results show that women's contributions tend to be accepted more often than men," the researchers explain in the study, which they say will soon be peer-reviewed. "However, when a woman's gender is identifiable, they are rejected more often. Our results suggest that although women on GitHub may be more competent overall, bias against them exists nonetheless." We spoke with a few women in the field to get their thoughts on the study. As expected, the experiences were varied, though most agreed they had experienced bias. Alexandra Anghel, is CTO and founder of the online platform Appticles, and has more than 10 years' experience as a developer. She's gone gender-neutral on sites like Stack Overflow (a Q&A community for programmers). "I didn't have a profile photo when creating my account, and, after adding it, I saw that people were not accepting my answers anymore and their comments were becoming meaner and meaner," she says in an email. Leslie June, an experienced coder with BitCookie concurs. "I evade a lot of bias as I stay anonymous whenever I can, but I have certainly experienced the bias in person," June says via e-mail. Lookmai Rattana, a developer with two years' experience would agree with that statement. "The only time I have experienced a gender bias was when I used to attend hackathon events. People seemed to always assume I was the designer/creative of the team, rather than being one of the developers," she says via email. "That some people wouldn't even consider that I might be a developer kinda hurts more than assuming that I'm not good at the job." The very nature of coding might be partly to blame for this ladies-second attitude. "Coding itself has a competitive aspect that isn't as present in other industries. While many businesses rely on the communal efforts of a team, coding is very personal, independent, isolating work," June explains. Plus, "the perception that coding is a male-dominated industry is still pervasive, which leads to gender bias in and out of the community." But software engineer Priscilla Rodriguez doubts that the bias issue is as dire as some believe. "In my opinion other industries are way harder on female workers than in coding," she emails. "Other professional industries often give preferential treatment to men over women, but in my experience, coding has [a] pretty even playing field." Interestingly, it's not clear whether men are always the problem portion of the equation. "In the present paper, we haven't looked at the gender of the person responding to the pull request," researcher and North Carolina State associate professor of computer science, Emerson Murphy-Hill, notes. "We've done some preliminary analysis on that, and it looks like women are harder on women, and men are harder on men. But this analysis doesn't take into account whether the genders are visible." Several of the female developers pointed out that the answer to the problem is for more women to enter the field so it won't be so surprising to see a female coder, or accept suggestions from her. "The more women in the field, the less shocking it will be to anyone, and the more normalized it will become. Just like doctors no one is surprised by a female doctor anymore," emails Ann Gaffigan, CTO for National Land Realty. "I do think the answer is for us to be confident in our work, and to not apologize for being female." Now Thats Cool Groups like Girls Who Code and Black Girls Code encourage more women to join the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) work force. Girls Who Code cites a disturbing stat 74 percent of middle school-aged girls are interested in STEM subjects, but a measly 0.4 percent choose computer science majors come college time. My thinking has led me into a corner this week - a place where I can't really move forward, only a bit backward once I've fully explored this space. I think that this corner is an important one, so I've been content to just stay here and think and think and think. I realize that my title states "all" the different ways to define culture - that is my ultimate goal, but right now, I have started to define all the ways... My current corner is full of the different ways that we define culture and how many different types of cultural experiences we all have in our lives. When I start to think about the cultural experiences that make up the "me" that participates in this world, I find that I have lots of influences, expectations, biases, and exposures to different things that make up the culture of "me." This started me thinking about how far do we go when we consider "culture" when interacting with other people. First step in this exploration? Well, a definition of course!! This is from a Google Dictionary search: culture / klCHr / noun noun: culture ; plural noun: cultures 1. the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively. "20th century popular culture" synonyms: the humanities ; More intellectual achievement(s), intellectual activity ; literature , music , painting , philosophy "20th century popular culture" the arts, a refined understanding or appreciation of culture. "men of culture" synonyms: education , cultivation , enlightenment , discernment , discrimination , good taste, taste , refinement , polish ; More sophistication , urbanity , urbaneness ; erudition , learning , letters ; belles-lettres "a man of culture" intellectual/artistic awareness, 2. the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people, or other social group. "Caribbean culture" synonyms: civilization , society , way of life, lifestyle ; More customs , traditions, heritage , habits, ways, mores , values "people from many different cultures" the attitudes and behavior characteristic of a particular social group. "the emerging drug culture" 3. Biology the cultivation of bacteria, tissue cells, etc. in an artificial medium containing nutrients. "the cells proliferate readily in culture" a preparation of cells obtained from a culture. "the bacterium was isolated in two blood cultures" 4. the cultivation of plants. "this variety of lettuce is popular for its ease of culture" synonyms: cultivation , growing , farming ; More agriculture , husbandry , agronomy "the culture of crops" verb Biology verb: culture ; 3rd person present: cultures ; past tense: cultured ; past participle: cultured ; gerund or present participle: culturing 1. maintain (tissue cells, bacteria, etc.) in conditions suitable for growth. Origin Middle English (denoting a cultivated piece of land): the noun from French culture or directly from Latin cultura growing, cultivation; the verb from obsolete French culturer or medieval Latin culturare, both based on Latin colere tend, cultivate (see cultivate ). In late Middle English the sense was cultivation of the soil and from this (early 16th century), arose cultivation (of the mind, faculties, or manners); culture (sense 1 of the noun) dates from the early 19th century. Cultivation as the root of this word - interesting. I find etymology fascinating, and to find that we didn't really refer to culture as a human phenomenon until the early 19th century makes all of this even more interesting to me. I wonder when sociology became an official educational subject - was it around the same time? Let me check...According to the British Sociological Association , the subject was named by Auguste Comte and started in Europe in the 19th century. So, my first source indicates that the word was attached at about the same time as the origins of the study of how humans interact with their social groups. That makes sense to me - I can see how the word could be appropriated by the folks who wanted to study how social orders and group patterns affect us all. To cultivate something means considering where, when, and how something grows - our use of the word culture also encompasses these types of considerations. I wonder if there could be another word - I mean, I know that it won't happen now (our use of the word is too ingrained) - is there another term that could envelope all the ways we think about where we come from and the influences that have shaped our social responses? When I start to think about cultural influences in my own life, a list starts to form: Family Date of birth and subsequent experience in the world (age) Habitation - geographical location and experiences Social Circles - types of people who make up experiences and interactions Developmental patterns Education Socioeconomic status Exposure to novel experiences History of health Gender - both biological and preferred Sexual orientation I know that this is not a comprehensive list, but it is a starting point. I can tell you that my culture is primarily American with European influences (but mostly American), origin in the 70's, life in Texas, California, New Jersey, California, Kansas, Arizona, California, and Kansas, multi-cultural social circles (especially in California), higher education and advanced studies, middle-upper class socioeconomic status, opportunities to travel all over the United States and three opportunities to travel to other countries, female, heterosexual. All of these things make up my unique cultural experience as a person in this world. All of these things shape how I respond to others. All of these things are part of every other person that touch my life in any way at all. These things cannot be changed, but they can be expanded upon - if I want to take the time and acknowledge the biases and blind spots in my own life and interactions - which I do. So, what does this have to do with my work as a music therapist? I work with people who do not have the same cultural background as myself all of the time! If there is so much of me to consider, then I need to also consider all of these things for every single client who comes to my clinic. I also need to consider the culture that I establish in my music therapy clinic. Am I someone who supports each person as they are? Do I try to fit them into a preconceived mold of what a "music therapy client" has to be in order to be treated by me? The questions just continue. I will continue to think about this topic as I continue to figure out what all this means to me as a music therapist and as "me." Thanks for coming along for the ride. British Sociological Association. (2019). Origins of sociology. Retrieved (March 23, 2019) from: https://www.britsoc.co.uk/what-is-sociology/origins-of-sociology/ Many South African ICT professionals and executives are leaving the country, and the main reasons behind their decisions are affirmative action, BEE, and crime. This emerged from interviews which MyBroadband conducted with high-level ICT executives who left South Africa for Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The executives who were interviewed were guaranteed anonymity to give them the freedom to discuss the real reasons behind their decisions. One ICT Executive provided detailed information about his decision and his new life in Australia. He also shared his views on what South Africa and local companies can do to retain IT executives. His answers provide valuable insight into the exodus of IT skills from South Africa, and how this can be addressed. Why I left South Africa The ICT Executive said there are five reasons which influenced his decision to leave South Africa. Personal safety: My family and I were particularly hard hit by violent crime in South Africa. When we weighed up pros and cons, personal safety simply outweighed everything else. My family and I were particularly hard hit by violent crime in South Africa. When we weighed up pros and cons, personal safety simply outweighed everything else. Public health services: A huge consideration for me was the fact that public health services in South Africa have deteriorated dramatically in the last 10 years. The cost of private health in South Africa is very high, and I certainly did not want to be 65 years old and be unable to afford private health care in South Africa. A huge consideration for me was the fact that public health services in South Africa have deteriorated dramatically in the last 10 years. The cost of private health in South Africa is very high, and I certainly did not want to be 65 years old and be unable to afford private health care in South Africa. The real value of my pension fund at retirement: The cost of living in South Africa has dramatically increased, and it has become challenging to ensure financial stability after retirement. I did not want to be caught in a situation 20 years from now where my retirement fund is running out. The cost of living in South Africa has dramatically increased, and it has become challenging to ensure financial stability after retirement. I did not want to be caught in a situation 20 years from now where my retirement fund is running out. My age: I always considered Australia as the only suitable destination to leave SA, and the cut-off age for immigration was recently adjusted to 45. I always considered Australia as the only suitable destination to leave SA, and the cut-off age for immigration was recently adjusted to 45. Education: South Africa has one of the worst public education systems in the world, and I did not want our kids to go to private schools. He said the decision to leave South Africa was unrelated to his employer. My professional life is much better in Australia He said his professional life is much better in Australia than in South Africa for the reasons below. Quality: The quality of service providers and specialists in Australia is at a completely different level than in South Africa. Although it must be said that the associated cost could be 80-100% more. The quality of service providers and specialists in Australia is at a completely different level than in South Africa. Although it must be said that the associated cost could be 80-100% more. Ease of doing business: The core ICT infrastructure across Australia for connectivity and cloud data centres is of the highest quality, whereas Microsoft only now got Azure going in South Africa, with no Office 365 option yet. The core ICT infrastructure across Australia for connectivity and cloud data centres is of the highest quality, whereas Microsoft only now got Azure going in South Africa, with no Office 365 option yet. Corruption: Dealing with large contracts and suppliers in South Africa can be a bit of a minefield, with many an IT executive becoming a legal and contracting specialist, instead of staying focused on delivering value-adding technology to the organisation. Its a real pleasure to operate in a near corruption-free environment. He did, however, highlight that Australia is expensive and service providers are not shy to charge. What can be done to keep IT executives in SA The ICT Executive said South African organisations that want to ensure they hang on to IT executives and specialists should play an active role in dealing with the challenges in the country. Safety and security: Personal safety is more important than a large salary, and most people would prefer to sleep safely than have a big bank account. Companies that can offer secure offices and housing can mitigate this to some degree. Personal safety is more important than a large salary, and most people would prefer to sleep safely than have a big bank account. Companies that can offer secure offices and housing can mitigate this to some degree. Personal development: The IT sector is changing rapidly, and companies should ensure that their IT executives are exposed to first-world technology and not left behind. The IT sector is changing rapidly, and companies should ensure that their IT executives are exposed to first-world technology and not left behind. Offshore pension fund: Organisations that can offer dollar-based pension funds can help mitigate the risk of the unstable rand. Organisations that can offer dollar-based pension funds can help mitigate the risk of the unstable rand. Invest in electrical supply: Without an electrical supply, an IT executives hands are cut off. South African companies would do well to invest in getting off the grid, which will provide an enabling environment for IT staff. Now read: The truth behind IT executives leaving South Africa Three years ago, Brin Chartier went to Austin, Texas, for the South by Southwest festival and decided she wasnt going to leave. Then 27, the Boston native found a job at a tech startup and moved there the following year. I fell in love, she said. Lots of cities are trying to fashion themselves as the next Silicon Valley, but Austin is truly having a moment. Its economy, population and list of high-profile employers have all ballooned in recent years. Chartier is among a wave of Austin transplants, attracted by the mix of affordability, opportunity and eclecticism. So many new people were moving in, Chartier said. Its been wild. After a month or two, I was old news. Austins population increased 23 percent from 2010 to 2017, growing faster than any other U.S. metropolitan region, and far outpacing the national rate of 5 percent, according to data from research firm Statista. Its slated to expand the size of the downtown area by half, based on projects under construction or planned, according to Austins economic development department. As a result, the city is becoming less affordable and driving longtime residents out. Its starting to look more like the Valley in less desirable ways, too. One draw for businesses is the local tax incentive program, which takes into account job creation and environmental impact. The technology industry is one of the biggest drivers of growth. And the city isnt over-reliant on one employer-unlike, say, Arlington, Virginia, which Amazon.com Inc. plans to call its second home. In the past few years, Amazon, Apple Inc., Facebook Inc. and Google have established large Austin outposts, and each recently signaled plans to expand there. Amazon spent $13.7 billion to acquire Austin-based Whole Foods in 2017 and is leasing nearly half of a new tower under construction, according to a local report last month. Apples presence in Austin is the biggest after its headquarters in Cupertino, California, and the company said it would invest $1 billion in Austin to build an office park capable of holding 15,000 additional employees, roughly double the current workforce there. Juul Labs Inc., the San Francisco-based maker of a popular e-cigarette, said it will open an office in Austin for some four-dozen employees to start. The plans, which havent been previously reported, would designate Austin as the head of Americas for Juul. South by Southwest, which kicks off Friday, serves as the citys annual showcase. Since the first music festival in 1987, organizers have added film screenings, a technology conference, video game competitions and political debates. This year will feature Democratic presidential candidates Elizabeth Warren and Amy Klobuchar, alongside acting lessons from Jodie Foster and an interview with the founders of Instagram. A quasi-official slogan of the city is Keep Austin Weird. That a landlocked, lone liberal stronghold in the countrys conservative heartland became a tech hub is a suitably weird fact. Jeff Haynie, who has spent the last two decades starting tech companies in Atlanta and Silicon Valley, moved his family and his newest startup, Pinpoint Software Inc., from Mountain View, California, to Austin last year. The companys investors include Bessemer Venture Partners, Slack Technologies Inc. and Bloomberg Beta, the venture capital arm of Bloomberg LP. More affordable housing, a higher quality of life, relaxed business licensing rules and the absence of personal state income taxes convinced Haynie to come to Texas, he said. The state climbed to become the third-most-popular place to start a new business over the last decade, from 20th, according to the Kauffman Foundation. The recent migration of talent and a change in attitudes among VCs makes starting a tech company outside of the Valley more possible than ever, Haynie said. Haynie has been coming to South by Southwest since 2009. Hell spend the next week attending the festivities and entertaining friends and old colleagues from the Valley. More than 75,000 people are expected to descend on Austin for the event. Some restaurants pay the whole years rent in just that week, said Josh Baer, founder of a startup accelerator located downtown. Its hard to say whether Austin made South By or South By made Austin. The tech influx has been good for Baer. His accelerator, Capital Factory, worked with more than 100 startups last year, up from five in 2011. But he worries Austin could lose its cherished weirdness and replicate the urban woes of San Francisco, where high-earning tech professionals drove up the real estate market to extraordinary levels. The median home price in Austin jumped 40 percent over the last five years, exceeding the national average, according to Zillow. Traffic is already a problem, and a population boom could put an even greater strain on transportation and other infrastructure. Artists cant afford to live here anymore, Baer said. The cool people are going off to live somewhere else. With assistance from Bloombergs Ellen Huet and Olivia Zaleski. A Napa woman whose German Shepherd died while in the care of a Contra Costa dog trainer has been awarded $60,000 by a Napa County court. Denise Swank said she was devastated after her beloved dog, Gunnar, died in May after she sent him to be trained by Garry Reynolds of NorCal K-9. According to the Antioch police, officers found inhumane and cruel conditions at the home where Gunnar had likely been held. Swank then sued the trainer Reynolds for negligence, breach of contract and violation of California health and safety codes. Gunnar died an avoidable, painful and excruciating death, said a lawsuit Swank filed in Napa County. A Napa County judge seems to have agreed. On March 15, Superior Court Judge Victoria Wood awarded Swank $60,000 in damages for her loss, which included emotional distress, pain, suffering and inconvenience. Justice is being served, said Todd Wenzel, Swanks attorney. Im grateful for the decision, said Swank. Reynolds did not answer Swanks civil complaint and did not appear in court. Reached by phone last week, Reynolds declined to comment on the judgement, only to say it will be appealed. Last May, Swank paid $6,000 in cash to Reynolds with the promise that he would train Gunnar. But 17 days after Reynolds took Gunnar to his reported training facility, he was dead. A veterinary pathologist at UC Davis did a necropsy on Gunnar, for which Swank paid $1,800. The pathologist concluded that Gunnar had died of heat stress or hyperthermia. In June, Antioch animal control officers visited an Antioch address associated with Reynolds where they found seven dogs. One dog was returned to its owner. The other six were taken to a local shelter. But after rehabilitation efforts failed, all had to be euthanized. On Dec. 12, Reynolds, 37, and another man, Devon Benjamin Ashby, 30, were each charged in Contra Costa County with eight felony counts of cruelty to an animal. The criminal complaint states that Reynolds and Ashby deprived eight animals, including Gunnar, of proper food, drink or shelter and subjected the animals to needless suffering and cruelty. Reynolds insisted the dogs death was not his fault. I did nothing wrong, Reynolds said in a January interview. I loved Gunnar, Reynolds said. I feel for Gunnar and Gunnars family, he said, but there was nothing I could have done. Wenzel noted even though Swank has been awarded a judgement, enforcing it is a whole other ball game. Reynolds still faces multiple criminal charges, Wenzel noted. I think hes in a lot of trouble. If Reynolds doesnt pay, Swank can use the judgement to garnish Reynolds wages or place liens on any property he owns. 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. Gavin Newsom is fond of making grandiloquent, headline-grabbing gestures couched in moralistic terms. His tendency first surfaced in 2004 when, as the newly elected mayor of San Francisco, he directed officials to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples in defiance of a state law passed by California voters just a few years earlier. I had no right to do this, Newsom to an interviewer last year, when he was running for governor. We didnt have the formal authority. But we tried to exercise our moral authority and challenge the laws. Although his action was quickly slapped down by the courts, it made him a national political figure. Last week, Newsom did it again, ordering reprieves for the more than 700 inhabitants of Californias death row and, in effect, launching a campaign to persuade California voters to overturn capital punishment. That, like the same-sex marriage decree 15 years earlier, was well orchestrated for maximum media attention, including videos posted on Twitter and photos of San Quentins capital punishment chamber being dismantled. Once again, Newsom is defying the demonstrated will of California voters, who twice in this decade rejected ballot measures that would have ended the death penaltyand if theres a political price to be paid, it would be for that defiance. Although his opposition to capital punishment was no secret, Newsom on several occasions had pledged to honor those two votes. In a 2016 interview with the Modesto Bees editorial board, Newsom said he would be accountable to the will of the voters if elected governor. I would not get my personal opinions in the way of the publics right to make a determination of where they want to take us. While campaigning last year, Newsom said that while he was fervently opposed to the death penalty, he didnt want to get ahead of the will of the voters and wanted to give the voters a chance to reconsider. So last weeks action was definitely a flip-flop. He justified it by saying, The will of the voters is also entrusted in me on the basis of my constitutional right as governor to grant a reprieve to condemned prisoners. Ive had to process this in a way I didnt frankly anticipate . A few months ago, it was an abstract question, he told reporters. Now, its a very real question, he added, citing legal maneuvers over the states current mode of execution, lethal injection. There is a very cogent argument to be made against capital punishment, even on non-moralistic grounds. It makes little sense to continue sending killers to death row if the state is to continue what has been a de facto moratorium on executions. None has been performed since 2006, two governors ago. However, despite its being a very blue state, California voters have twice declared their support for capital punishment and its somewhat unseemly for a governor to, in effect, thumb his nose at them, especially after pledging not to do so. Newsoms predecessor, Jerry Brown, was no less opposed to capital punishment, and it cost him politically during his first stint as governor, contributing to a failed 1982 bid for the U.S. Senate, which short-circuited his presidential ambitions. During his second governorship, Brown bowed to capital punishments popularity and refused, despite pleas from death penalty opponents, to issue a blanket reprieve. Newsom has set himself apart from Brown on several high-profile issues, and this is another. His gay marriage gesture in 2004 turned out to be a political plus, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court agreed. Morality aside, this is another political gamble. 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. When Gov. Gavin Newsom suspended the death penalty in California last week, he cited an ineffective, irreversible and immoral process that, from trial to execution, is tainted by racial discrimination. African Americans bear the brunt of the bigotry; theyre the most overrepresented on death row. In a state that is only 6 percent black, more than one-third of defendants sentenced to death in California are black. Decades of studies have uncovered ways that race can tip the scales. For example, in capital cases where the victim is white, defendants are significantly more likely to receive a death sentence than when the victim is black. But the truth is more complicated, and more insidious, than a simple black/white divide. When black men are judged by juries in capital cases, their sentences can hinge on just how black they are perceived to be. Those with darker skin, wider noses and thicker lips are subject to far harsher sentencing than lighter-skinned blacks with less prominent, so-called black features. In research I led in 2006, looking more black more than doubled the chances that a defendant would receive the death penalty. But only when the victims were white. To determine the impact of appearance on jurors decisions, my team of psychologists and legal scholars used a database of death-eligible defendants black men convicted of capital crimes committed in Philadelphia between 1979 and 1999. We showed the mugshots of those defendants to a group of people who had no idea what our study was about, and asked them to rate each photograph on how stereotypically black the face appeared. We told the raters they could use any number of factors to make their determinations, including skin color, facial features and hair texture. Then we applied their ratings to the individual cases and examined the sentences those defendants had received at trial. For black men convicted of killing black victims, there was no stereotypicality effect. The men whose faces were rated highly stereotypical were sentenced to death at exactly the same rate as those who were rated low in stereotypicality. However, when we looked at black defendants who were convicted of killing white victims, we found a huge effect. Of the men rated low in stereotypical features, only 24 percent had been sentenced to death. But more than 57 percent of the highly stereotypical black defendants were sentenced to die for their crimes. The difference persisted even when we controlled for factors like the severity of the crime, aggravating or mitigating circumstances, the defendants socioeconomic class and the defendants perceived attractiveness. Regardless of the nonracial factors we took into account, black defendants appeared to be punished in proportion to the blackness of their physical features, the closer they hewed to conventional stereotypes. Those strong distinctions signal that our perspectives, our criminal justice process and our institutions are influenced by primitive racial narratives that link people of African descent to darkness and evil. The 18th century philosopher Immanuel Kant once asserted that punishment should be pronounced over all criminals, proportionate to their internal wickedness. Even in the 21st century, when people look upon a black defendant who is eligible for death, they may use the blackness of his appearance as a marker for wickedness and attempt to punish accordingly. Our deepening knowledge of implicit bias has contributed to 20 states abolishing the death penalty. Californias moratorium, however, will expire when Newsom leaves office, unless he can woo voters to his cause. Ironically, he may have made that harder by citing racial discrimination in his decision. Research has shown that highlighting racial differences in the justice system actually leads members of the broader public to be more supportive of punitive policies, including the death penalty. When the implicit narrative of black wickedness is not challenged, it can seem to perfectly explain the disparities in outcomes. Concessions to bias and bigotry have been so thoroughly incorporated into our national perspective on fairness and liberty that they have proven especially stubborn to change. Even documentation of gross racial disparities failed to move the Supreme Court in a 1987 death penalty case that has been called the Dred Scott decision of our time. After reviewing research that included 2,500 Georgia cases, the court acknowledged a discrepancy (in sentencing) that appears to correlate with race. Still, the justices upheld the death penalty for Warren McCleskey, a black Georgia man convicted of killing a white police officer while robbing a furniture store. Justice Lewis Powell, writing for the five-member majority, dismissed the statistical evidence because, as he put it, disparities in sentencing are an inevitable part of our criminal justice system. He worried that ruling otherwise would open the door to discrimination claims related to all manner of arbitrary variables, even to gender, he wrote. Or to the defendants facial characteristics. The ruling came under heavy criticism from legal scholars and civil rights activists, concerned that it made institutional racial bias constitutional, and simply part of the status quo. Powells decision reverberates today, making it difficult to challenge racial bias in any phase of the justice system without proof of deliberate discriminatory intent. Two months after delivering the ruling in the McCleskey case, Powell retired from the Supreme Court. He would later say that his decision in this case which allowed McCleskeys execution to go forward, in 1991 was the only court ruling he participated in that he ever regretted. Jennifer L. Eberhardt, a professor of psychology at Stanford, is the author of Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do. She wrote this for the Los Angeles Times. 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 The headline in last Sundays Register stated County Sues Drug Makers. It details astonishing statistics regarding the level of opioid use and abuse in Napa County and California. I would encourage everyone to read as much of the lawsuit as you can. Although a hefty 143 pages, it does detail the immensely profitable racketeering conspiracy that has taken place over the past 30 years involving Big Pharma. The amount of money that has been made by the companies and used to create demand is tragically matched by the human cost in addiction and death that continues to rise each month in the US. In its most insidious form, drug company representatives would convince doctors that a (non-existent) study showed that opioids were non-addictive, that doctors should never deny patients relief from pain, and finally they could be subject to malpractice if they failed to prescribe the pills. If a lawsuit is not your personal education method, I would recommend a new book that is entitled "American Overdose: The Opioid Tragedy in Three Acts," by Chris McGreal. It documents the 30 years of the opioid issue and provides a historical backdrop to the Napa County lawsuit. We have been hearing about the Opioid Crisis over the past few years. From reading the lawsuit and the book, it is clear that tragedy is a more apt description. It all started in some impoverished communities in West Virginia 30 years ago. It has expanded throughout the nation based on intense lobbying, education, and payments made by the pharmaceutical companies. This has been matched by little effective counteraction by elected representatives and government officials representing all political points of view and geography. To date, other legal action against the industry has resulted in large fines that the companies pay and factor in the cost of doing business; as such, little has deterred them to date. They are also determined to spread out into countries in Central and South America, and much of Asia. If you wonder how this all started, Big Pharma proudly touts that they use a version of the playbook developed by Big Tobacco over 60 years ago. We all know how successful that has been. Eric Zimny Napa Perched more than 2,000 feet above the valley floor on the very spine of the Mayacamas Mountains, Pride Mountain Vineyards straddles the Napa/Sonoma county line just northwest of St. Helena. The founder passed away in 2004, and now the second generation son Steve and daughter Suzanne continues the tradition of making exceptional high-altitude wines. [By 1989] My father wanted a weekend property in the Napa Valley where he might run cattle and grow a few grapes, Steve said. Our real estate agent brought us up the long, winding road to this property and showed us around. It was pretty rustic but my father saw the potential, and the deal was set when he met the owner. Steves dad, James Randolph Pride, was a dentist in San Francisco. Born in Santa Ana, he attended high school in Chico and later graduated from Loyola University School of Dentistry in Los Angeles. Eventually, he opened the Pride Institute in Novato, a management and consulting firm for dentists still in existence today. Along the way, Pride had had a personal physician, John Gamble, with whom hed lost touch over the years. But on a remote ranch atop Spring Mountain that day, Gamble welcomed his old patient and friend. A few weeks later, the Prides purchased the property. I was always really impressed by Dad because when he started this it wasnt like he was a Silicon Valley billionaire, and so although he had money coming in from his day job and my mom (Carolyn) had inherited some rice land in the Central Valley, he hired his own crew (still headed by David Orozco) and also worked in the fields himself, Steve said. And because of his frugalness and hard work we were able to grow slowly, not getting into much debt. According to Steve, his father initially met with some of the valleys most well-regarded (and most expensive) vineyard and winemaking consultants available, but decided because of economic realities and perhaps a bit of pride in being more hands-on himself that he wanted to take a different path. Pride style I first came to learn about Pride Mountain Vineyards in the late 1990s when I tasted the 1994 Pride Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. I remember being happily dumbfounded by the experience. I knew the grapes had been grown at high elevation and not on the valleys floor, but the wine was velvety and not at all tannic like I had anticipated. The flavors were luscious and ripe, not overly acidic or even slightly green as with some of the higher-altitude wines coming out of the region. When I explored further, I learned that Robert Foley was making the wine at that time. I had known Foley from growing up in St. Helena, but I knew him as Bob, the rock guitarist who played in various local bands. Beyond music, he was also making some of the better Napa Valley wines of the day, having started at Markham Vineyards in the late 1970s and then moved on to more cult-styled wines, including Pride Mountain, Switchback Ridge, Hourglass, Paloma, School House and his own label by the mid-1990s. By then, the 1992 vintage of Screaming Eagle had gotten a glowing write-up and 99 points from the influential wine critic Robert Parker Jr. Although Foley hadnt made that wine (Heidi Barrett had), his winemaking style was similar in that it produced big, ripe wines that resonated with a new cadre of American wine collectors whod begun to seek the newest and most exclusive wines from the Napa Valley that scored well with Parker. Winemaker Sally Johnson Since 2007, Sally Johnson has been Prides winemaker, carrying on and refining the wine program as the vineyard matured and the understanding of the sites unique soils and climate became better understood. The combination of dedicated owners, outstanding winemakers and exceptional vineyards have yielded continued high scores from Parker, with two coveted 100-point scores for Johnsons 2012 and 2013 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignons. Parker also listed Pride as one of only 22 California wineries included in his book, The Worlds Greatest Wine Estates: A Modern Perspective. The winery has been listed six times within the Wine Spectator annual survey of the worlds top 100 wines, and Pride wines have had the rare distinction of being served at 32 White House dinners over the last four administrations. With all the accolades and fanfare, one might expect that such rarefied air might have made the folks at Pride, well, prideful. However, thats not the feeling one gets when visiting the winery. Instead, the ambiance is more playful than serious, as exemplified by a hat I saw a cellar worker wearing a few years ago that proudly stated, Swallow your Pride. Beyond a strong team and the focus on quality, it is the site that truly makes Pride. The lands of Pride include roughly 235 acres with stunning valley views. Approximately 90 acres are planted with a variety of wine grapes, including Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and others. Vineyards are not new to the property, with the earliest known vines planted sometime in the late 1860s on what was then known as Summit Ranch. None of those original vineyards remain; however, there are 11 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that were planted by Gamble in the 1980s that make up whats known as the Rock Arch Vineyard. Rock Arch is the main contributor to our Reserve Cabernet, Steve said. Our first Reserve Cab in 1994 was made almost exclusively from these vines because the wines from this vineyard are intensely flavored. Steve said that when his father first bought the property the Rock Arch grapes were being sold to the Robert Mondavi Winery. However, that ended in 1992 when Charles Thomas (Mondavis winemaker at the time) ended the contract. He told my dad the quality wasnt good enough and so he didnt buy the fruit that year, Steve said. [My dad] faced with an unexpected 35 tons [of Cabernet Sauvignon] hired Bob Foley as his winemaker and then expanded production. The initial idea was to sell most of the fruit to other wineries and maybe make a few bottles of their own wine on the side. But with the extra 35 tons of grapes (roughly 21,000 bottles of wine), a more extensive wine program was on its way. The wines of Pride Until the current winery was built in 1997, the first Pride wines were made at the Rombauer Winery. Later, more than 20,000 square feet of caves were bored into the mountainside. Roughly half of the winery and vineyards fall within Napa County and the remaining within Sonoma County. A row of bricks in the concrete between the tasting room and the winery identifies the county line, and most of the wines include the percentage of grapes from either county listed on their labels. Although nearly all of the wines are worthy of discussion, including the exceptional Chardonnays, three reds from the new release of the 2015 vintage deserve special notice. Inspired by Steve Prides many years of teaching geology in France, where he learned to love the wines of Cote Rotie, the Pride Syrah ($60 per bottle and 958 cases made) has a touch of Viognier and is rich with aromas of peppery duck fat, kirsch, stony earth and honeysuckle. The palate mirrors the aromatics with a long finish that includes a surprising appearance of blueberry jam. The Merlot ($60 a bottle with roughly 4,000 cases made) is abundant with red raspberry and dark cherry aromas and has a broad mid-palate that finishes with hints of purple plum and smoky oak. The Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($145 a bottle and 1,400 cases made) has an elegant nose of creme de cassis, sandalwood incense, black olives and vanilla. This wine has a wonderful shape within the mouth that spreads across the tongue to leave an elegant impression of blackberry, sweet licorice and dried flowers that seems to give a nod toward Johnsons first remembered wine, the 1989 Chateau Clinet from Pomerol, France. Since our dad passed my sister and I have felt compelled to continue on the tradition he and my mother started, Steve said. About 85 percent of our wines are sold directly to our customers, many of whom have been with us since the early days and so we consider them like family. We are also connected to our team, many of whom have also been with us for a long time. Beyond that, we feel connected to this place and to our wines. And in some ways, what else matters but connection? David Orozco's name was spelled incorrectly in the original posting of this story. Arindam Kapinjal, a cadet of the 41 Meghalaya NCC Artillery Battery in Shillong, will represent India in Kazakhstan during a youth exchange programme conducted by the headquarters of the Director General of the National Cadet Corps (NCC). The Meghalaya-based defence PRO also tweeted that Cadet Arindam Kapinjal is a student of St Anthony College in Shillong. Earlier, Cdt Kapinjal represented the NCC directorate in North Eastern Region (NER) as the best cadet at the Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2019 at New Delhi. Informing this on its official Twitter handle on Saturday, the Shillong-based Defence PRO stated: Cdt Arindam Kapinjal of 41 Meghalya NCC Arty Bty, Shillong, to represent India at Kazakhstan, under youth exchange programme conducted by HQ DG NCC, adding, A student of St Anthony College ,Shillong ,he represented NCC Dte, NER as best Cdt at RDC 2019 at New Delhi. According to media reports, cadet Arindam Kapinjal, who is a senior under officer of 41 Meghalaya NCC Arty Bty. It has been reported that Col Rajeev Bagga, commanding officer of 41 Meghalaya NCC, was instrumental in grooming Cdt Kapinjal to achieve the success. Cdt Arindam will be part of the Indian team, which will depart for Kazakhstan soon to participate in the youth exchange programme in the central Asian country. In September 2018, the 41 Arty Battery, NCC group in Shillong conducted its annual training camp CATC-53 for the boys of Meghalaya. The camp was held from September 4 to 12, 2018 at Umroi Cantonment. The cadets were trained by the 41 Arty Battery, Shillong on various activities like drill, adventure, firing, team building exercises and various group activities. During that training, the NCC cadets of the Meghalaya were also shortlisted to represent their zone for selection in the NE Region directorate team for the Republic Day Camp (RDC) at New Delhi. UK urges allies to seek alternatives to Russia natural gas 168.am: Armenia ex-police chief hospitalized NBC: US holds back additional military aid to Ukraine to avoid tension Person, 26, found dead in Armenia water pit Criminal case launched into killing of Armenia soldier Man found dead in Yerevan At least 2 killed from tornado in Arkansas Investigative Committee: Staff left combat positions and fled as a result of which adversary invaded Armenia territory Jill Biden comments on talks about US President's mental fitness Poland PM issues ultimatum to Russia 30 new cases of coronavirus reported in Artsakh Media: Islamic State takes responsibility for 2 blasts in Kabul France presidential candidate Eric Zemmour to visit Armenia US to sell 18mn barrels of oil from its strategic reserve Famous Armenia singer declared wanted Bright Armenia Party leader: ECtHR obliges Azerbaijan to pay 30,000 to Badalyan as moral damage compensation Psaki: US seeks diplomacy in context of situation between Russia and Ukraine 290 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia Biden believes leaders of all other countries would like to be in his place Armenia PM: Internal patriots do not calm down because their foreign partners do not consider the mission over Peskov: Russia concerned about NATO military equipment transfer via Greece port Esplanade of Armenia opens in Paris Armenia soldier dies, 2 others wounded Newspaper: Bill that pampers Armenia banks to have very serious consequences Newspaper: What to expect from Armenia parliament special session next week? Boris Johnson threatened with resignation due to parties during pandemic Kopirkin: Russia is ready to make all efforts to contribute to normalization of Armenia-Azerbaijan relations Armenia MFA: '3+3' platform needs to refrain from duplicating formats with mandate to settle conflicts RT: US may build facilities in Georgia and Armenia to support its 'defense activities' Armenia 2nd President: We will continue the struggle, all the phony cases will be crushed MFA: Armenia calls on Azerbaijan to refrain from provocative rhetoric Hero of 44-day Karabakh war Garik Hovakimyan's sister Mariam is born Republican Party of Armenia Executive Body holds session chaired by Serzh Sargsyan Iranian Embassy: Iran supports '3+3' platform during meeting held in Moscow Armenia ex-defense minister on Prosecutor General's Office imposing attachment on his assets Alen Simonyan: Armenia is in one of the most crucial stages in its history, and opposition is demanding my resignation PM: Armenia is committed to contributing to global mission of strengthening democracy, and we hope we're not alone Armenia MOD: Soldier who was injured from gunshot fired by fellow serviceman has regained consciousness Armenia Deputy PM: Omicron variant is not sufficiently explored 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) -- Democratic candidates running to unseat President Donald Trump in 2020 reacted quickly to the news Friday that special counsel Robert Mueller had delivered his highly anticipated report to the Department of Justice. Their one consistent message: Make it public. Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Kamala Harris, D-Calif., and former Texas Rep. Beto O'Rourke, all called for the report -- the product of nearly two years of investigation -- to be released immediately to the American people. "The Mueller report must be made public. All of it," Gillibrand said at her 2020 campaign kickoff event in front of Trump International Hotel in New York. "It's not often that I agree with Richard Nixon. But he was right to say that the American people have a right to know whether their president is a crook." "The Mueller report must be made public all of it," Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand says in 2020 speech. "it is not often that I agree with Richard Nixon, but he was right to say that the American people have a right to know whether their president is a crook" https://t.co/rTYLWyQTQg pic.twitter.com/bsJxzCYQIN ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) March 24, 2019 "This report should be made public immediately," Booker tweeted from his campaign account. A longer reaction from Booker was tweeted from his official Senate account: "I am demanding the Mueller report be made immediately available for members of Congress and for the public. Anything short of full transparency will be detrimental to our country moving forward. The American people deserve the truth." "This report should be made public immediately," Booker tweeted from his campaign account. A longer reaction from Booker was tweeted from his official Senate account: "I am demanding the Mueller report be made immediately available for members of Congress and for the public. Anything short of full transparency will be detrimental to our country moving forward. The American people deserve the truth." I am demanding the Mueller report be made immediately available for members of Congress and for the public. Anything short of full transparency will be detrimental to our country moving forward. The American people deserve the truth. https://t.co/gyNDlHgZNY Sen. Cory Booker (@SenBooker) March 22, 2019 "As Donald Trump said, Let it come out." I call on the Trump administration to make Special Counsel Mueller's full report public as soon as possible. No one, including the president, is above the law," Sanders tweeted. As Donald Trump said, Let it come out." I call on the Trump administration to make Special Counsel Mueller's full report public as soon as possible. No one, including the president, is above the law. Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) March 22, 2019 "Americans deserve to know the truth now that the Mueller report is complete. The report must be released immediately and AG Barr must publicly testify under oath about the investigation's findings. We need total transparency here," Harris tweeted. Americans deserve to know the truth now that the Mueller report is complete. The report must be released immediately and AG Barr must publicly testify under oath about the investigation's findings. We need total transparency here. Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) March 22, 2019 "Attorney General Barr must release the full report to the public," Klobuchar tweeted. "The American people deserve to know the facts." BREAKING: The Mueller report is complete. Attorney General Barr must release the full report to the public. The American people deserve to know the facts. https://t.co/XdUaSw31Xu Amy Klobuchar (@amyklobuchar) March 22, 2019 "Attorney General Barrrelease the Mueller report to the American public. Now," Warren tweeted. I dont take PAC money or checks from federal lobbyists. This grassroots movement is by the people, for the peopleand its going to take all of us fighting side by side to win in #2020. Lets do this together. https://t.co/04aDwnif8a Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) March 21, 2019 "Release the Mueller report to the American people," O'Rourke tweeted. Other 2020 Democratic hopefuls who joined the chorus of calls for the report to be made public included former Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julian Castro and former Maryland Rep. John Delaney. The American public deserves to know the contents of the Mueller Report. Donald Trump and his Attorney General cannot be trusted to summarize or excerpt it accurately, Inslee tweeted. The American public deserves to know the contents of the Mueller Report. Donald Trump and his Attorney General cannot be trusted to summarize or excerpt it accurately. Jay Inslee (@JayInslee) March 22, 2019 "The American people deserve to know the full truth about Russias interference in our democracy," Castro wrote in a tweet. "The Special Counsel report must be publicly released in its entirety." "The patriotic action for the Attorney General is to release the entire Mueller Report to the American people. We paid for it and this moment requires transparency," Delaney said in a tweet. Make the full Mueller report public and available to the American people, Gabbard tweeted. Make the full Mueller report public and available to the American people. #ReleaseTheReport Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) March 23, 2019 The delivery of the report signaled the completion of Mueller's investigation into how far the Kremlin went to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, including whether anyone with the Trump campaign may have helped those efforts. The Mueller investigation has been looming over the White House for almost two years of Trump's presidency. As he mounts his re-election bid, the Democratic field appeared to show caution about attacking the president but were united in their calls for transparency. The first potential Republican primary challenger, former Massachusetts Gov. Bill Weld, said the process should play out "without interference." "It's about Rule of Law. Important for this process to play out without interference," Weld said in a tweet. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. US President Donald Trump's statement on the Golan Heights is directly proportional to the issue of Karabakh's hydrosecurity, Davit Babayan, press secretary of the President of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic/NKR), told the Armenian News-NEWS.am. "The statement of the U.S. President Donald Trump concerning the fact that the Golan Heights is an integral part of Israel as it is an important component of security in that country and provides stability in the region, is a very significant and unprecedented statement, especially in the context of the Azerbaijani-Karabakh conflict. Everything here is a symbolism. Even the announcement was made on the eve of the International Water Day, because the Golan Heights first of all is Israel's hydrodonor, which is home to the source of the largest Jordan River in Israel. David Babayan recalled that even 50 years before the establishment of the state of Israel,various circles of the Jewish diaspora emphasized the importance of controlling the sources of Jordan as a critical component of the security of a future state. Trump emphasized safety without any reference to history. In this context, we have a powerful opportunity to actively promote the importance of Karvachar from the point of view of ensuring the critical security component of Armenia and Artsakh. Karvachar, just as the Golan Heights,is a hydrodonor region from purely strategic point of view. Not to use messages of the great power in this context it is simply inadmissible", - David Babayan concluded. Heading to Canberra Airport in Australias capital after a tedious day trip analyzing stroke data with a statistician, Antonio Sanchez was amazed by the site from his taxicab window. A huge mob of kangaroos was bounding across an open field and onto the road. It was one of the most memorable and exciting moments of my two months in Australia, recalled Sanchez, who was among 11 nursing and public health students the School of Nursing and Health Studies (SONHS) dispatched around the world this past summer for its fourth Minority Health International Research Training Program, or MHIRT, funded by the NIHs National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities. But the eight weeks Sanchez spent at Australian Catholic University (ACU) in Sydney under the mentorship of a renowned stroke researcher also opened an exciting, new path to his future. Sanchez, who will graduate this May with a bachelor of science in nursing, returned to Miami committed to pursuing an advanced degree and a nursing career that encompasses both clinical care and health sciences research, the very interest that MHIRT was designed to foster among minority students. I hadnt had any experience with research before. I was not even aware of what it entailed, said Sanchez, who moved to South Florida from Spain while in high school. It was really this wonderful and exciting program that awoke that passion. Going to Australia and being exposed to all this great research actually showed me how nursing research is key to changing health care. Now approaching its fifth and final year of the $1 million-plus NIH grant, UMs MHIRT program aims to encourage and equip promising undergraduate minority students like Sanchez to pursue careers in health disparities research by providing them research training experiences abroad. Since the programs inception at the University of Miami, 41 MHIRT scholars have spent eight weeks in Australia, Spain, Chile, Jamaica, or the Dominican Republic, paired with UM and international mentors from institutions with which SONHS has previously collaborated. The final 10 MHIRT undergraduates were recently selected and will leave for their host countries in June. A handful of previous MHIRT scholars have gone on to pursue doctorate or masters degrees, which Johis Ortega, associate dean for hemispheric and global initiatives and co-principal investigator of the MHIRT program, said is a small but important step in meeting the national mandate to build a culturally competent scientific workforce and end the health disparities that plague socially, economically, and environmentally disadvantaged people not only around the world, but across the U.S. The minority population is increasing in the U.S., and we have a very small percentage of minority nurses prepared to pursue the research that can address their issues, Ortega said. Thats why its one of the main goals of the NIH to expand the number of minorities seeking higher degrees. Thats why they have programs like this. Who can understand better the issues of minorities than minority researchers? And who better than public health and nursing students, who are on the frontlines of health care? Antonio Sanchez and Sabrina Smith visit the sites of Sydney, where they spent two months on nursing research at Australian Catholic University. Sanchez and fellow nursing student Sabrina Smith got an in-depth look at how essential nurses are to improving care this past summer while working with a research team led by ACU nursing professor Sandy Middleton on an offshoot to her landmark stroke study. Published in The Lancet in 2011, the Quality in Acute Stroke Care (QASC) study showed that the protocols nurses initiated to manage three common post-stroke complicationsfever, high blood pressure, and swallowing dysfunctionresulted in a 16 percent decrease in death and disability among patients who suffered a stroke. The protocols have since been adopted in stroke units across New South Wales, Australias largest state, and are being introduced in 300 hospitals in 12 European countries. For Sanchez, the real-world application of QASC and the follow-up study he worked on during his summer in Sydney, which centered on the efficacy of spouses and family members who cared for QASC patients after they left the hospital, reaffirmed his initial impression of nursing. He formed that in high school, when he began volunteering in the emergency room of Miamis Mercy Hospital. Thats where I realized nurses are on the frontlines of health care and had the highest impact on health care, he said. But his experience in Australia also made him realize that actually gathering or analyzing the evidence that guides evidence-based medicine would make him a better clinician. Thats what compelled him, when he returned to Miami, to become a research assistant on Dean Cindy Munros Family Automated Voice Reorientation study. Known as FAVoR, the $1.9 million NIH-funded study is exploring whether scripted audio messages recorded by family members can help prevent delirium in critically ill ICU patients by orienting them to the chaotic ICU environment. Its also why Sanchez, who already has applied to the nursing schools graduate program for a master of science in nursing, is excited about the next benefit of the MHIRT program, which began with a three-week orientation with SONHS mentors before scholars headed to their host countries, and concluded with a weeklong seminar focused, in part, on disseminating their research. He was among six MHIRT scholars chosen to submit their research posters for presentation at the Nursing Consortium of South Floridas April 26 conference on leadership. That honor was announced last month on the SONHS Research Day devoted to MHIRT research and featuring a talk by Middleton, Sanchezs Australian mentor. The director of the Nursing Research Institute, a collaboration between ACU and St Vincents Health Australia in Sydney, Middleton spoke on a topic dear to Sanchezs heart, and his future: Is it possible to change clinician behavior and implement evidence-based care? Other students in Sanchezs MHIRT class contributed to a number of other studies, from an investigation of issues impacting nursing students in Chile to factors that contribute to medication and treatment adherence among adult asthma sufferers in Jamaica to the effects ofsocial support on pregnancy outcomes in the Dominican Republic. Silence filled the air as the names and ages of the 50 victims in the deadly mosque attack were read out loud. On Friday afternoon, people from all different backgrounds at the University of Miami converged on the Lakeside Patio to take a moment to honor the lives that were lost on March 15 when a gunman opened fire at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. It saddens me to tell you that on this beautiful day, instead of enjoying the many good things that God gave us, we have to stand grieving the lives of men, women, and children who were lost in an attack, said Imam Abdul Hamid Samra. What makes it easier for us is the support of the UM community to stand with us in solidarity. Nearly two dozen people attended the prayer service, which was hosted by the Muslim Students of the University of Miami (MSUM). Qismat Niazi, the president of the organization, said that although the attack did not happen in our vicinity, she, along with many others, have been shaken to the core. I would like to instill a hope in our Muslim brothers and sisters and in our non-Muslim colleagues, that there is support here at the U. The fact that we are all here today encourages me to say this statement with confidence, she said. Sumra Wahid was another student speaker who is part of the executive board of MSUM. She told the crowd that she vows to pray every day for those who lost their lives. In Islam, Muslims consider each other to be part of one Ummah, which is a community that is bound to each other and supports one another. This event here today has created a new meaning in my eyes to the word, said Wahid. Ryan C. Holmes, associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students, also offered words of hope. Let us use todays hurt as a component of tomorrows healing, and lets continue to build a better community while serving as a model for those abroad, he said. A show of unity was demonstrated at the vigil during a multi-faith prayer for peace. UM chaplains from different faiths offered words of peace. It is our responsibility to strengthen each other and come together in times like this to be strong together, said Rabbi Lyle Rothman. May gatherings like this cease to exist. It is my prayer to be pursuers of peace. At the end of the service, people of all religions were invited to attend a Jumuah Prayer at the Shalala Student Center. The requested page is currently unavailable on this server. Back to [RTHK News Homepage] JNIM Claims Killing 30 G5 Sahel Force Troops in Raid in Dioura, 9 MSA Elements in Menaka (Adds details, comment from GE and African Development Bank Group) March 22 (Reuters) - The African Development Bank Group said on Friday that two General Electric Co subsidiaries would be temporarily barred from bidding on power contracts as part of a settlement of misconduct cases. The agreement bars GE Power units in Egypt and Germany from bidding for up to 76 months, the bank said. The units, former parts of Alstom that GE acquired in 2015, were found to have engaged in bribery and fraud in 2006 and 2011, the bank said. "This conduct happened long before GE acquired Alstom's power business and we cooperated fully with the investigation," GE said in a statement. "Ethical behavior and compliance are foundational to GE's ability to successfully operate in more than 180 markets around the world." Other development banks may also enforce the bans, the bank said. "We have no reason whatsoever to doubt that the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Inter-American Development Bank and the World Bank Group will follow the African Development Bank's lead," Johann Benohr, a senior advisor to the director of the office of integrity and anti-corruption at the African Development Bank Group, said in an email to Reuters. The barred entities are Alstom Egypt for Power Projects S.A.E., based in Cairo, and GE Power Systems GmbH, based in Mannheim, Germany, the bank said. GE is trying to restore profits at its money-losing power business as the conglomerate slims down to three main product lines: power plants, jet engines and wind turbines. (Reporting by Alwyn Scott; editing by Diane Craft) (Adds quote in paragraph 19) By Humeyra Pamuk and Jarrett Renshaw MEAD, Neb./NEW YORK, March 22 (Reuters) - Massive flooding in the U.S. Midwest has knocked out roughly 13 percent of the countrys ethanol production capacity, as plants in Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota have been forced to shut down or scale back production following the devastation. Production facilities owned by large companies like Archer Daniels Midland Co and Green Plains Inc were still operating despite days of snowstorms followed by rains that sent record floods into the Farm Belt. However, with rail lines are washed out, and corn in storage flooded, production is dropping off, sending prices spiking in markets that buy the corn-based fuel. The U.S. has some 200 ethanol plants capable of producing 1.06 million barrels per day, and about 100,000 to 140,000 bpd of capacity has been taken off line due to the floods, according to three traders who track operations. Crop damage exceeds $400 million in Nebraska alone, according to Nebraska officials. The disruption comes as the ethanol industry is in the midst of a historic downswing due to the ongoing trade conflict with China and sluggish domestic demand growth that has led to high inventories and weak margins. The floods will boost margins for those still operating but could be punishing for firms digging out from the water. Ethanol plants use rail cars to deliver products to the Gulf Coast, East Coast and West Coast markets. Ethanol delivered in the Gulf Coast is trading at 15 to 17 cents per gallon above Chicago's benchmark price, about double the average gap for this time of year, traders said. Its only to get worse. I think we are looking at a three to four week situation. Typically, exports would help fill the void, but we are being told that Brazil doesnt have any excess supplies, said one trader. Among the plants that have scaled back are ADM's plant in Columbus, Nebraska, the largest in the United States, due to flooding of a small rail line serving the plant, said Chris Cuddy, president of Carbohydrate Solutions at ADM. Story continues The company said on Thursday that production is still limited without providing specific details, but traders said the plant's production has been minimal. The plant can produce 413 million gallons annually, according to the Nebraska Energy Office. "We haven't been able to get (corn) to them for at least for a week because of the flooding and the roads washed out," said Justin Mensik, 19, of Morse Bluff, Nebraska, who grows corn that supplies ADM's Columbus plant. In Arlington, Nebraska, a rail line was overrun by water, forcing its closure; contractors in the town said the line transports agricultural products like corn to other facilities. Roads to that line were also closed, and workers using diggers could be seen pulling out debris and using heavy rocks to fill holes. Transportation is definitely affected. All rail cars were put on hold since last Friday and they were not allowed to be sent out. We are not sure when it will be back to normal operations," said Scott Tingelhoff, general manager at AltEn, an ethanol processor in Mead, Nebraska, which produces about 24 million gallons of ethanol a year. Mike Jerke, chief executive of Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy LLC, which runs a 120 million-gallon-a-year ethanol production plant in Council Bluffs, on the border of Iowa and Nebraska, said he has had to cut production. Corn farmers who provide feedstock are still digging out from the flooding, and some have already determined some of their supplies are unsuitable. Omaha-based Green Plains, which has a market value of $700 million, said its five Nebraska plants are dry, but they are facing rail challenges around their Atkinson, Ord & Central City, Nebraska plants. The company is looking for ways to work around the flooding, such as unusual trucking routes, said company spokesman Jim Stark. It may take a couple of weeks to understand the total impact of the flooding, Stark said. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk in Mead, Nebraska, and Jarrett Renshaw in New York; editing by David Gaffen and Marguerita Choy) (Adds Allegheny County District Attorney comment) By David DeKok HARRISBURG, Pa., March 22 (Reuters) - A Pittsburgh jury on Friday unanimously found that a white police officer did not commit murder when he fatally shot black teenager Antwon Rose, an incident that sparked protests and fueled a debate about racial bias in the U.S. criminal justice system. East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld, 30, shot Rose, 17, as he fled from a car along with an 18-year-old associate who has since pleaded guilty to carrying out a drive-by shooting from the vehicle. "This case had nothing to do with race," Patrick Thomassey, Rosfeld's lawyer, told reporters outside the courtroom. The shooting was one of a series of high-profile U.S. police killings of unarmed black teens and men. A group of about 100 Rose family supporters chanted for "justice" outside the courtroom following the verdict, their fists raised in the air. "Antwon Rose was shot in the back, he was unarmed. He did not pose a threat to the officers or the community, the verdict today says that that is OK," said Lee Merritt, the family's attorney. Lawyers for Rosfeld, of Verona, Pennsylvania, argued that he acted in self-defense because he believed Rose was carrying a weapon. Thomassey portrayed Rosfeld as a police officer acting as a shield between good citizens and rampant crime in an area of Allegheny County. The jury of nine white people and three black people deliberated for less than four hours to reach their decision. "I was not surprised at the verdict because this happens time and time again," said Summer Lee, Pennsylvania state representative for Allegheny County. "We've seen it in Ferguson, we've seen it in Baltimore, we've seen it with black men and women killed by police officers." Pittsburgh police were braced for street protests over the verdict, although Rose's family publicly pleaded for a peaceful response. Story continues Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala, who filed homicide charges against Rosfeld, said he disagreed with the verdict. "In the interest of justice, we must continue to do our job of bringing charges in situations where charges are appropriate, regardless of the role an individual holds in the community," Zappala said in a statement. The shooting occurred on the night of June 19 in suburban East Pittsburgh, about 11 miles (18 km) from the downtown court where the trial took place. (Reporting by David DeKok, additional reporting by Andrew Hay; Editing by Scott Malone and Rosalba O'Brien) (Updates with official confirmation) LIMA, March 22 (Reuters) - Peruvian police said on Friday that they have arrested the leader and two lawyers of an indigenous community, accusing them of trying to extort Chinese miner MMG Ltd by blocking a road it uses to transport copper for the past month. Gregorio Rojas, president of the community Fuerabamba, was arrested in Lima late on Thursday, along with the community's attorneys, brothers Frank and Jorge Chavez, the police said in a statement. It was not immediately clear who the legal representatives were for Rojas and the Chavez brothers. Frank Chavez and Rojas have previously denied allegations by representatives of the mining industry that the road blockade aimed to illegally or unfairly secure money from MMG. Fuerabamba has said MMG built the road on its farmland without its permission, and that the government illegally made it a national highway last year to help MMG, which is controlled by state-owned China Minmetals Corp Ltd. The government and MMG deny the allegations. Rojas told Reuters this month that Fuerabamba asked MMG for 40 million soles ($12 million) for the rights to use the road. The arrests came as talks between the three parties reached a stalemate. The government had demanded an end to the blockade before discussing the community's demands any further. MMG said it respects decisions by Peru's judicial system and was open to dialog. It reiterated that the road blockade had halted its exports of copper but that production has not yet stopped. Las Bambas is one of Peru's biggest copper mines, with about 385,000 tonnes in output last year. Fuerabamba, a Quechua-speaking community that once farmed and herded animals in Peru's southern Andes, was relocated to a new town near Las Bambas earlier this decade so that the mine could be built. Fuerabamba has repeatedly accused MMG of failing to fulfill its commitments in the relocation agreement. In early February, community members camped out along a stretch of the road on its farmland to block MMG's trucks carrying copper concentrates to the port of Matarani on Peru's Pacific coast. Former Fuerabamba President Alfonso Vargas said by telephone on Friday that the blockade would continue despite the arrests. As part of the same operation, police said they had arrested two others and seized dynamite, guns and bullets from 12 properties in Lima and the region of Apurimac, where Las Bambas is located. The police statement did not specify whose property the weapons were seized from or how they related to the alleged extortion. (Reporting by Mitra Taj and Marco Aquino; Editing by Richard Chang and Sandra Maler) * Attorney general to decide how much of report to release * Top Democrats warn against White House interference * No new indictments announced at end of Mueller probe (Adds Scalise statement) By Sarah N. Lynch WASHINGTON, March 22 (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by U.S. President Donald Trump, setting off a clamor from lawmakers in both parties for the document's quick release. Marking the end of his nearly two-year investigation that ensnared former Trump aides and Russian intelligence officers and cast a cloud over the Republican businessman's presidency, Mueller submitted the report to Attorney General William Barr, the Justice Department said. Mueller did not recommend any further indictments, a senior Justice Department official said, in a sign that there might be no more criminal charges against Trump associates arising from the investigation. Throughout his investigation, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people and three companies. The big question now is whether the report contains allegations of wrongdoing by Trump himself or exonerates him. Mueller, a former FBI director, had been examining since May 2017 whether Trump's campaign conspired with Moscow to try to influence the election and whether the Republican president later unlawfully tried to obstruct his investigation. Trump has denied collusion and obstruction. Russia has denied election interference. Trump has sought to discredit the investigation, calling it a "witch hunt" and accusing Mueller of conflicts of interest. But he said on Wednesday he does not mind if the public is allowed to see the report. The report was not immediately made public. Barr, the top U.S. law enforcement officer and a Trump appointee, will have to decide how much of it to disclose. Barr told lawmakers in a letter he may be able to provide the "principal conclusions" of Mueller's findings to Congress as soon as this weekend and added that he was "committed to as much transparency as possible." Story continues Under regulations governing special counsel investigations, the attorney general must share an outline of Mueller's report with Democratic and Republican leaders of the judiciary committees in Congress but it is largely up to him what to make public. Key Trump aides, including his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, national security adviser Michael Flynn and personal lawyer Michael Cohen, have already either been convicted or pleaded guilty to charges brought by Mueller. None of those charges, however, directly related to the question of collusion between the campaign and Moscow. The Justice Department has a policy that sitting presidents cannot face criminal charges. Lawmakers from both parties called for prompt release of the report. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer - the two top Democrats in Congress - said it was "imperative" the full report be made public, that Barr not give Trump and his team a "sneak preview" of the findings and that the White House not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts are made public. They said the investigation focused on questions that "go to the integrity of our democracy itself: whether foreign powers corruptly interfered in our elections, and whether unlawful means were used to hinder that investigation." 'OPENNESS AND TRANSPARENCY' Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in Congress, said, "The attorney general has said he intends to provide as much information as possible. As I have said previously, I sincerely hope he will do so as soon as he can, and with as much openness and transparency as possible." The White House has not received or been briefed on the report, spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said, adding that "we look forward to the process taking its course." When the Justice Department announced the arrival of the report, Trump was at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where he met on Friday with a group of Caribbean leaders. Staff members at the private club were setting up for a Lincoln Day dinner fundraiser for a local branch of the Republican Party. Programs for the event featured an image of a $5 bill with 19th century President Abraham Lincoln sporting a red Trump campaign hat with the slogan "Keep America Great" on it. Donald Trump Jr., the president's eldest son, posted a picture on Twitter of his sons on a fishing trip. "Great day on the water with my little men for their spring break," he wrote. Representative Steve Scalise, the No. 2 House Republican and a strong ally of the president, expressed confidence the report would not find collusion with Russia. "The reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what we've known all along: there was never any collusion with Russia. The only collusion was between Democrats and many in the media who peddled this lie because they continue to refuse to accept the results of the 2016 election," Scalise said. Even if the Mueller report exonerates Trump, that may not spell the end to his legal troubles. Cohen pleaded guilty in August to campaign finance violations in a case overseen by federal prosecutors in Manhattan, who said in court filings that Cohen carried out the crimes at the direction of Trump. The U.S. Attorney's Office in Manhattan is also looking at the spending of Trump's inaugural committee and business practices at the Trump Organization, the family's company. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that Moscow meddled in the election with a campaign of email hacking and online propaganda aimed at sowing discord in the United States, hurting Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and helping Trump. Mueller's investigators have looked into a large number of contacts between people associated with Trump's campaign and Russia such as a meeting in New York's Trump Tower between members of the president's inner circle including his eldest son and a Kremlin-linked Russian lawyer five months before the election. Mueller sought to determine whether the campaign coordinated with Moscow, though it was not immediately clear whether the special counsel found evidence of a conspiracy. QUESTIONS ABOUT OBSTRUCTION Mueller also examined whether Trump committed obstruction of justice by trying to hinder the investigation, looking into acts such as urging FBI Director James Comey to drop a probe of Flynn's contacts with Russia, the subsequent firing of Comey, his attacks on the special counsel, dangling of pardons for former aides and the ouster of former Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Mueller's team already has signaled the direction of the investigation through indictments and hundreds of related court filings that have offered extensive details about Russian interference in the election. Trump fired Flynn in February 2017 after it emerged he had misled Vice President Mike Pence and the FBI about his dealings with the then-Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergey Kislyak. In May 2017, he ousted Comey, whose agency had been leading the Russia investigation. Comey's firing led the Justice Department to appoint Mueller to take over the probe. A small number of House Democrats have pushed for Congress to impeach Trump and remove him from office but the party's leadership including Pelosi has urged caution. No president has every been removed from office via impeachment. Several House committees in the meantime are conducting aggressive investigations of Trump and people around him. The last president to be impeached by the House, Democrat Bill Clinton, was acquitted by the Senate in 1999 on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice, meaning he was not removed from office. In prosecuting Manafort, Mueller showed how the former campaign chairman made millions of dollars working for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine, while also exposing his ties to a consultant who the special counsel said was connected to Russian intelligence. Manafort in the two cases prosecuted by Mueller's team was sentenced to 7-1/2 years in prison. The special counsel's case against Cohen revealed that Trump was negotiating to build a skyscraper in Moscow late into the 2016 campaign, contradicting statements from Trump at the time that he had nothing to do with the Russians. The special counsel also indicted longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone, a Republican operative and a self-proclaimed political "dirty trickster." Stone is accused of telling members of Trump's campaign that he knew in advance of plans by the WikiLeaks website to release emails damaging to Clinton that were stolen by Russia (Additional reporting by Karen Freifeld and Steve Holland in Washington, Nathan Layne in New York and Roberta Rampton in Florida Writing by Alistair Bell Editing by Will Dunham) (New throughout, adds details on software upgrade and FAA review timing; TV) By Tracy Rucinski and David Shepardson CHICAGO/WASHINGTON, March 23 (Reuters) - Teams from the three U.S. airlines that own 737 MAX jets headed to Boeing Co's factory in Renton, Washington, to review a software upgrade on Saturday, as U.S. regulators prepared to receive and review the fixes in coming weeks. The factory visits indicated Boeing may be near completing a software patch for its newest 737 following a Lion Air crash that killed 189 people in Indonesia last October. This month, a second deadly crash involving an Ethiopian Airlines MAX in Addis Ababa triggered the fleet's worldwide grounding. Timing for when passenger flights will resume remained uncertain. Boeing has come under global scrutiny along with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the agency that must approve the software fix and new training. Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines Co, the world's largest operator of the MAX, began parking its fleet at a facility in Victorville, California, at the southwestern edge of the Mojave Desert, to wait out the global grounding. Southwest has 34 of the jets; United Airlines has 14 and American Airlines has 24. Acting administrator Dan Elwell told lawmakers last week that the FAA expected Boeing would complete its upgrade as early as March 25, kicking off the approval process. An FAA spokesman said Saturday that the agency expects to receive the software fix early next week. A U.S. official briefed on the matter Saturday said the FAA has not yet signed off on the upgrade and training but the goal is to review them in coming weeks and approve them by April. It remained unclear whether the software upgrade, called "design changes" by the FAA, will resolve concerns stemming from the ongoing investigation into the March 10 Ethiopian Airlines crash, which killed all 157 on board. The U.S. official said planned changes included 15 minutes of training to help pilots deactivate the anti-stall system known as MCAS in the event of faulty sensor data or other issues. It also included some self-guided instruction, the official added. Story continues The Allied Pilots Association (APA), which represents American Airlines pilots, said it has been in talks with Boeing, the FAA and airlines to get the airplanes flying again as soon as possible with an acceptable level of safety. "Right now we're in wait-and-see mode to see what Boeing comes up with," said Captain Jason Goldberg, spokesman for the APA, part of a delegation of airline safety experts and pilots set to test the upgrade. "We're hopeful, but at the same time the process can't be rushed." Boeing said on Saturday it was continuing to schedule meetings with all 737 MAX operators. Southwest and United said they would also review documentation and training associated with Boeing's updates on Saturday. (Reporting by Tracy Rucinski and David Shepardson; additional writing by Susan Heavey; editing by Tom Brown and David Gregorio) WASHINGTON, March 22 (Reuters) - The United States imposed sanctions on Venezuela's development bank Bandes, a day after the Trump administration warned there would be consequences for the arrest of opposition leader Juan Guaido's top aide. The U.S. Treasury said it was slapping the sanctions on the Banco de Desarrollo Economico y Social de Venezuela, including its subsidiaries in Uruguay and Bolivia. "(President Nicolas) Maduro and his enablers have distorted the original purpose of the bank ... as part of a desperate attempt to hold onto power," U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement announcing the action. Guaido, who invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency in January, has accused Bandes of being used by officials of Maduro's government to steal funds. The U.S. Treasury said Maduro tried to move $1 billion out of Venezuela through Banco Bandes Uruguay in early 2019. Bandes has received billions of dollars over the past decade from the China Development Bank, in exchange for oil, which the Venezuelan government used to fund infrastructure projects. The sanctions freeze assets belonging to the bank and its subsidiaries, and prevent U.S. citizens from any dealings with Bandes. The announcement comes after Venezuelan authorities detained Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, on Thursday in a pre-dawn raid, sparking vows of reprisals from the United States, which backs Guaido. (Reporting by Lesley Wroughton, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) (Adds background) WASHINGTON, March 23 (Reuters) - United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin will travel to Beijing for the latest round of high-level trade talks scheduled to start on March 28, the White House said in a statement on Saturday. The United States also will receive a Chinese trade delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He for meetings in Washington that are set to begin on April 3, the White House said. President Donald Trump said on Friday the negotiations with China were progressing and a final agreement seemed probable, as the world's two largest economies seek to ease tensions from an eight-month-old trade war. But earlier this week, Trump warned the United States may leave tariffs on Chinese imports for a while, though Beijing has pushed for them to be removed as part of any deal. (Reporting by Roberta Rampton; Writing by Makini Brice Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) * Latest sanctions hit development, commercial banks * Imposed day after Guaido chief of staff detained * Guaido says aide being transferred from jail to court * Bandes sanctions could sway China away from Maduro -lawmaker (Adds response from Venezuela's foreign ministry, Guaido statement on chief of staff) By Lesley Wroughton and Deisy Buitrago WASHINGTON/CARACAS, March 22 (Reuters) - The United States imposed sanctions on Friday on Venezuela's development bank, Bandes, a day after the Trump administration warned there would be consequences for the arrest by Venezuelan authorities of opposition leader Juan Guaido's top aide. The U.S. Treasury said it was slapping the sanctions on Banco de Desarrollo Economico y Social de Venezuela, including its subsidiaries in Uruguay and Bolivia. It also imposed sanctions on state-owned Venezuelan commercial banks, including Banco de Venezuela and Banco Bicentenario. In a statement, Venezuela's foreign ministry said it "energetically rejects the unilateral, coercive, arbitrary and illegal measures" taken by the Trump administration. It said the sanctions would affect millions of Venezuelan people and companies who use the banks. Congress head Guaido, who invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency in January, has accused Bandes of being used by President Nicolas Maduro's government to funnel money outside Venezuela. The White House said in a statement it was committed to preventing Maduro's government from stealing Venezuela's resources and from arresting those pushing for political change. Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, was detained in a pre-dawn raid on Thursday, sparking vows of reprisals from the United States, which along with most Western countries backs Guaido as Venezuela's rightful leader. "The United States will not tolerate the arrest of peaceful democratic actors, including members of the democratically-elected Venezuelan National Assembly and those Venezuelans working with interim President Juan Guaido," the White House said in a statement. Story continues In a tweet on Friday evening, Guaido said he had been informed that Marrero was being transported from jail to court. He demanded Marrero be freed, calling the judges who would hear his case "complicit with the dictatorship." Venezuelan authorities said on Thursday that an arms cache had been seized from Marrero's house and accused him of planning attacks against political figures. Guaido said guns had been planted by intelligence agents. DEBT WITH CHINA The U.S. Treasury said Maduro tried to move $1 billion out of Venezuela through Banco Bandes Uruguay in early 2019 as he came under increasing pressure from the United States and other countries in the region to step down. Bandes has received billions of dollars over the past decade from the China Development Bank, in exchange for oil, which the Venezuelan government used to fund infrastructure projects. Uruguay has stayed neutral on Venezuela's political crisis and has called for dialog, while China, Russia and regional ally Cuba have backed Maduro. But the sanctions on Bandes could test Beijing's ties with Caracas, since it would impede Venezuela from restructuring its $20 billion debt with China, opposition lawmaker Angel Alvarado said on Friday. "That makes it even less likely that China will step in to save Maduro," Alvarado wrote on Twitter. Guaido and his allies have repeatedly argued that China and Russia are more likely to collect on their loans to Venezuela with Maduro out of office. The sanctions freeze assets belonging to the banks and subsidiaries, and prevent U.S. citizens from any dealings with them. They follow a raft of other sanctions imposed by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump in recent months against Maduro, top government officials, and state oil firm PDVSA. Trump's national security adviser John Bolton tweeted earlier on Friday: "BANDES bank is to Venezuela's financial sector what PDVSA is to its oil sector. This action will severely affect any attempted currency movements by Maduro and his cronies moving forward. Do not test the resolve of this Administration." It said that Visa, Mastercard and American Express would be prohibited from facilitating transactions involving the blacklisted commercial banks, beginning in March 2020. That would complicate basic purchases in a country stricken by hyperinflation and a sixth year of economic contraction. (Reporting by Lesley Wroughton, additional reporting by Angus Berwick and Luc Cohen in Caracas, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) Revoke Article 50 petition calling for Brexit to be cancelled hits four million signatures Four million people have now signed the petition urging to Government to revoke Article 50 and put a stop to Brexit. The Revoke Article 50 petition is the second most popular ever submitted to the Parliament website with the highest rate of sign-ups on record, according to the official Petitions Committee. Despite the petition garnering a huge following, Theresa May ruled out cancelling the countdown during her visit to Brussels earlier this week. She said: I do not believe that we should be revoking Article 50. The petition has surpassed another proposal which sought to prevent Donald Trump from making a state visit to the UK, which had 1.9 million sign-ups. The Revoke Article 50 campaign is edging close to the websites biggest ever, a 2016 petition calling for a second EU referendum should the winning vote and turnout not reach a certain threshold, which has received the most signatories to date, at almost 4.2 million. The official website has crashed numerous times since the petition leapt in popularity following the Prime Ministers statement on Wednesday, with MPs and celebrities publicly backing the appeal. In her Downing Street statement, Mrs May blamed MPs for failing to implement the result of the 2016 EU referendum and told frustrated voters: I am on your side. The petition quickly passed the 100,000-signature threshold needed for it to be debated in Parliament, with the official committee revealing nearly 2,000 signatures were being completed every minute during its peak. On Thursday, EU leaders said Brexit could be delayed from March 29 to May 22 but only on the condition that MPs vote for Mrs Mays deal next week. If it is rejected in the third meaningful vote, the UK would have until April 12 to tell the European Council a way forward. An extension could continue for several more months if Britain agreed to vote in Mays European Parliament elections. A consultant analyzing a mammogram - PA THOUSANDS of women with breast cancer could be spared chemotherapy if they were offered gene tests which show whether their disease is likely to spread, a major trial has found. The British study suggests that up to 5,000 women a year could avoid the toxic treatment, which can cause nausea and fatigue, through wider use of genetic risk profiling. Currently a test called Oncotype DX is offered to around 9,000 patients a year by the NHS when disease has not spread to the lymph nodes. But the new study suggests that the tests could also be used to tailor treatment for around 10,000 patients in whom disease has progressed, identifying which cases require chemotherapy and which can be helped by hormone therapy alone. Scientists said the research by The Royal Marsden Hospital could mean around 5,000 such women are spared chemotherapy, and its associated side-effects. Charities said the results were promising - but said further research was needed to assess the long-term outcomes of patients who were put only on hormone treatment. The study examined the use of the tests on breast cancer which is oestrogen receptor positive (ER+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (HER 2-), where disease had spread to be between one and three lymph nodes. Before the test was used, chemotherapy was recommended for 70 per cent of patients. But after the genetic analysis, just 28 per cent of cases were found to need the treatment. The rest were referred for less aggressive hormone therapy. Researchers said the analysis, from 582 patients at 30 hospitals, was also able to identify some cases in need of chemotherapy, who would not have been picked up using traditional assessments. Dr Sophie McGrath, Consultant in Medical Oncology at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, said that use of the test saw more than half of cases which would have been recommended for chemotherapy spared it. This data shows that the Oncotype DX test provides valuable information in guiding treatment decisions for patients whose cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, she said. Story continues More effective targeting of chemotherapy could be particularly valuable among older women, for whom the regime could prove punishing, she said. The test allows scientists to examine the genetic make-up of samples of tumours which are removed during surgery, to discover whether it is likely to spread to other parts of the body. If adopted by the NHS, the tests could reduce expenditure on chemotherapy by around 22 million, and cut waiting times. Latest figures show one in four cancer patients is waiting more than two months to start treatment. Baroness Delyth Morgan, chief executive at Breast Cancer Now, said such tests had real potential to personalise breast cancer treatment and enable some women to be safely spared the gruelling side-effects of chemotherapy. The early findings from this UK access programme are promising, and suggest that this test could change whether chemotherapy is recommended for a large proportion of node-positive patients. But we need to see long-term data to know that forgoing chemotherapy would not affect the chances of their breast cancer coming back or their survival outcomes, she said. Currently, the test is only recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) for cases which have not progressed to the lymph nodes but are at intermediate risk of spreading. Nice is not expected to update its guidance until 2021. A course of chemotherapy typically costs the health service 4,500. The list price of the Oncotype DX test is 2,500 each, but the NHS pays less for its use under a confidential deal with the manufacturer, Genomic Health. The findings were presented at the St Gallen International Breast Cancer Conference, in Switzerland. Earlier this week, the Health Secretary called for a wider rollout of gene testing on the NHS, as he revealed that tests had found he is at increased risk of prostate cancer. Matt Hancock called for a national debate about the biggest ethical questions concerning a revolution in genomics, as he revealed that he was shocked by his own results.The tests found he has a 15 per cent chance of suffering prostate cancer by the age of 75 - which was described as a risk about 1.5 times greater than the average man. The Health Secretary said he would pursue a blood test with his GP, and ensure he did not miss any screening appointments. But some scientists criticised his statements, with one accusing him of an astonishing level of ignorance and suggesting he had massively misinterpreted the findings. Making purchases on your debit card might seem like the responsible thing to do. After all, credit cards make it easier to spend more money than you actually have and pay interest on the balance. From a security standpoint, however, its better to pay with a credit card instead of a debit card, especially in certain high-risk situations. The Dangers Of Debit Card Fraud It doesnt matter if you are shopping in a physical store or online, using an EMV point-of-sale system or the older mag stripe readers, a corporate retailer or a mom-and-pop. When you use a debit card, you are more exposed to financial loss than you are with a credit card, said Jason Glassberg, co-founder of Casaba Security, a company that major retailers, financials and other Fortune 500s have hired to conduct hacking tests and security reviews. Fraud protection for credit card purchases is much better. According to federal law, the most any credit card holder will be liable for in the event of fraudulent purchases is $50. On the other hand, you must notify your bank of a compromised debit card within two business days to limit your liability to $50; if you notify the bank after two days but before 60 days, you could be liable for up to $500 in fraudulent charges. And if you dont realize theres a problem until much later, you could be liable for all charges that occurred up to the date you informed your bank of the issue. When fraud hits a credit card, you have a buffer zone between the fraud and your cash. Jason Glassberg, co-founder of Casaba Security Plus, when you pay with a debit card, the cash is withdrawn directly from your bank account. If a hacker or a thief gets a hold of your card number and goes on a shopping spree, the banks will probably cover your losses eventually, but it will take them days, maybe even weeks to process the case and refund your account, Glassberg said. That delay can be painful for a consumer if they dont have enough money left in their account to pay bills, eat, etc., he added. When fraud hits a credit card, you have a buffer zone between the fraud and your cash. Story continues That said, it might not be realistic for everyone to spend exclusively on a credit card or with cash. So if you do use your debit card every now and then, avoid these five places that are especially risky to swipe. 1. Gas Stations Gas stations are a notorious hunting ground for credit card skimmers. Skimming is when someone attaches a device to an otherwise legitimate credit card reader that captures all your information when you swipe your card. That data is stored in the device or transmitted to the criminal, who can then use the information to make purchases online or even transfer the data to a counterfeit card. According to Glassberg, even though the financial industry has pushed for the switch from regular swiping to chip-and-pin transactions, criminals have figured out a way to overcome this by using shimmers instead of skimmers to steal the cards details. A shimmer is a paper-thin chip that is inserted inside of the card reader slot, where it can steal information from the smart chip, he explained. Late last year, the U.S. Secret Service began cracking down on gas station card skimmers and shimmers. According to one special agent, its estimated that 20 to 30 skimming devices are recovered every week, and each one holds information from about 80 cards. So to protect your bank accounts, its a good idea to pay with a credit card instead of a debit card at the pump. 2. Restaurants And Bars When the bill comes at your favorite restaurant or watering hole, paying with a card means allowing it to leave your sight for several minutes while the server runs it over to the register. Of course, most service industry workers are honest, hardworking people. But there are bound to be a few dishonest folks who use this as an opportunity to jot down your card information or swipe it through a handheld reader. Plus, theres always the chance that the establishments point of sale system gets hacked by an outsider. Glassberg suggested that patrons consider the overall condition of a restaurant or bar before pulling out a card to pay. Does it look well-managed, or does it seem disorganized and messy? Disorganized venues are less likely to keep card readers updated or to follow other basic security measures, he said. Paying with a credit card instead of a debit card, in this case, doesnt eliminate these risks, but it does mean youre better protected if your card information is stolen. 3. Non-Bank And Outdoor ATMs Most banks have decent security in and around branches. At the very least, theyre under video surveillance 24/7. And many bank branches require customers to swipe their debit cards to gain access to the branch after-hours as an added level of security. But plenty of ATMs can be found outside of branches, and many more are nowhere near banks at all. From grocery stores to bars to salons and liquor stores, thousands of freestanding ATMs can be found in areas that are less likely to be monitored, making it easier to tamper with them. FICO Card Alert Service, which monitors hundreds of thousands of ATMs across the U.S., noticed a huge spike in ATM skimming between 2014 and 2015. In fact, instances of ATM skimming rose a whopping 546 percent that year. Criminals also use pinhole cameras to record card numbers and PINs without actually hacking the card reader or ATM, Glassberg said. So if you need to withdraw cash, plan ahead and use a secure ATM at your bank rather than a freestanding machine that could have been compromised. 4. Self-Checkout Kiosks Like gas stations and ATMs, self-checkout kiosks are another place where the card reader can easily be tampered with. Examples include parking lot pay stations, public transportation ticket machines and self-checkout lanes at grocery stores. These kiosks are often located in areas that arent supervised, providing the perfect opportunity for scammers to install fraudulent card readers. Before you swipe your card at one of these self-serve stations, check for loose or odd-looking parts that could indicate a skimmer was placed over the original card reader. 5. Online The internet might make it easier to find and buy just about anything you could ever want (thank you, Amazon Prime), but it also presents many more ways for your card information to be stolen. Cybercriminals can hack the retailers website directly or hack the third-party service it uses to process online transactions to capture your card information. Glassberg noted that one new attack hes seeing more of is formjacking, in which the criminal uses malicious code to steal your information right out of the online shopping cart fields before youve even had a chance to click send. Though its not possible to protect yourself 100 percent against online shopping fraud, using a credit card can help mitigate the risks. Its also a good idea to only shop on sites that have an https in the URL (the s indicates its a secured site), to avoid using public Wi-Fi and to install anti-virus software on your computer. Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump is again breaking diplomatic norms in backing Israel's capture of the Golan Heights, with experts warning that he risks justifying expansionism by other countries. Israel conquered the Golan from Syria in the Six-Day War of 1967 and annexed it in 1981, but until now, the international community has not accepted the move, hoping the territory could serve as a bargaining chip in a future peace deal between the countries. But Trump on Thursday turned to Twitter for the abrupt diplomatic turnaround, saying that after 52 years, "it is time for the United States to fully recognize" Israeli sovereignty. The move -- which came as Trump's ally, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, faces elections -- has caused dismay even among US allies, with Britain and France both saying they still considered the Golan Heights to be "occupied" by Israel. Richard Haass, president of the Council on Foreign Relations, feared the consequences of walking away from UN Security Council Resolution 242, which stressed the "inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by war." The measure was passed after the Six-Day War. "This is the most fundamental principle of international order and was the basis of US opposition to Saddam's conquest of Kuwait and Putin's of Crimea," Haas said, referring to the 1991 Gulf War in which a US-led coalition freed Kuwait and Russia's 2014 seizure of the Ukrainian peninsula. It is not the first time that the real-estate mogul turned president has brazenly dismissed international conventions. In December 2017, Trump recognized passionately contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital, fulfilling a major goal for the Jewish state. In a television interview Secretary of State Mike Pompeo rejected the suggestion that the United States was using a double standard by recognizing Israeli sovereignty in the Golan while imposing sanctions on Russia for annexing Crimea. Story continues "What the president did with the Golan Heights is recognize the reality on the ground and the security situation necessary for the protection of the Israeli state. It's that simple," he told Sky News. Pompeo characterized the US as a "force for good" in the region, with "noble" intentions. "We want good outcomes... for all nations in the Middle East, and the decision the president made will increase the opportunity for there to be stability throughout the region," he said. - Law of the 'jungle' - Sweden's former foreign minister Carl Bildt said that Trump was returning to the law of the "jungle." "This is a catastrophic departure from the very basis of international law. Kremlin will applaud and apply the same principle to Crimea. Beijing will applaud and apply to South China Sea," Bildt tweeted. Syria and its ally Iran reliably denounced Trump's move. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan -- fearful of a breakup of Syria under which Kurds could seek independence -- said that Trump has created a "new crisis" and called for intervention by the Organization of the Islamic Conference. But allies also worried about the implications. France's foreign ministry said in a statement that recognizing Israeli sovereignty "would be contrary to international law, in particular the obligation for states not to recognize an illegal situation." Steven Cook, an expert on the Middle East at the Council on Foreign Relations, questioned the need to shake up the status quo, saying that US recognition only triggered fresh opposition to Israel's longstanding control of the Golan, where 20,000 settlers live. "In reality, there is no need for the recognition. Israel is in Golan for its own reasons, and nothing the Trump administration decides will change that," he wrote in an article in Foreign Policy magazine. Ilan Goldenberg of the Center for a New American Security said that Trump's decision "stirs a hornet's nest that didn't need stirring." "Also, it makes it quite hard for the US to continue to contest Russia's annexation of Crimea under the principle that taking territory by force is illegal. We now have no leg to stand on and the Russians will use it," he tweeted. "So why do it? Because this is awesome for Bibi's politics," he said, using Netanyahu's nickname. ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) A young Pete Kaiser had the drive to learn about racing sled dogs and the family and community to support his passion. Years later, he won the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Growing up, Kaiser had plenty of sled dogs to choose from at his parents' kennel in Bethel, a rural community in southwest Alaska. He got his first taste of success as a senior in high school when he won a 65-mile (105-kilometer) race. From there, the competitions and prizes kept getting bigger. On Wednesday, the 31-year-old captured the crowning glory in the sport, the Iditarod, a grueling test against the wildest terrain Alaska has to offer. Kaiser crossed the finish line in the Gold Rush town of Nome after beating back a challenge from the defending champion, Joar Ulsom of Norway. Ulsom finished the race just 12 minutes after Kaiser, who took 9 days, 12 hours, 39 minutes and 6 seconds to complete the 1,000-mile (1,600-kilometer) journey over two mountain ranges, along the frozen Yukon River and across the treacherous, wind-swept Bering Sea coast. It's Kaiser's first Iditarod victory in his 10th try. He said he wasn't sure what made everything come together for him this year. "Just years of knowledge gained and trying to put it all together to have a better race, better dog team this year every little detail coming into play," he said in a post-victory interview televised from the finish line. Kaiser became the fifth Alaska Native and first Yupik musher to win the world's most famous sled dog race. Veteran Iditarod musher Mike Williams Sr. has been friends with the Kaiser family and watched Pete's career progress. His victory lifts up not only the Yupik people but all southwest Alaska, Williams said. "It's going to make 35,000 people proud," Williams said. "I think he's going to be a great representative for us." A large group of residents from Bethel, Kaiser's hometown, flew in to see his victory. Alaska Native dancers and drummers performed near the finish line as they waited for Kaiser to arrive, even though it was past 3 a.m. Story continues Kaiser called the support "extremely humbling, and it motivates me every day to perform to my best, and I just want to thank them for coming out here tonight." When he was young, Kaiser went to races like the Kuskokwim 300, an annual mid-distance race in Bethel, to learn everything he could from the mushers. That includes Ed Iten, a veteran musher whose best Iditarod finish was second place in 2005. "He was a young boy then and came over and helped me feed the dogs," Iten said. "Then he went from helping out when I was in Bethel feeding my dogs to eventually whipping my butt in the Kusko 300, so he's a quick study." Kaiser, who counts Iten as his mentor, went on to win four Kuskokwim 300 races. "It just couldn't be better," Iten said of Kaiser's Iditarod victory. "We've been waiting for this. There's been no doubt in my mind that he was going to get it sooner or later." Dogs are in the Kaiser family's blood. Pete's father, Ron, raced dogs for a few years and then kept an active kennel. His mother, Janet, managed the Kuskokwim 300. Kaiser, who is married with two children, mushes in the winter and gets seasonal summer jobs on top of managing the kennel. Sled dog races don't have lucrative jackpots Kaiser picked up about $50,000 and a new truck for winning the world's premier competition. The prize money is down about $20,000 from what the 2017 winner received. This year's race was marked by the stunning collapse of Frenchman Nicolas Petit, who was seemingly headed for victory as late as Monday. He had a five-hour lead until his dog team stopped running. Petit said one dog was picking on another during a rest break, and he yelled at the dog to knock it off. At that point, the entire team refused to run. He had to withdraw. Fifty-two mushers began this year's race. Petit was among 11 who withdrew. The 2019 race came during a bruising two-year stretch for the Iditarod that included a dog doping scandal and the loss of national sponsors amid protests by animal rights activists. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is the biggest critic. "Hundreds of dogs (including six from Pete Kaiser's team) were so sick, exhausted, or injured that they were pulled from the race, forcing the ones remaining to work even harder, struggling on in what is a grueling test not of human endurance but of a dog's ability to survive extreme cruelty," PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman said in a statement after Kaiser's victory. Libreville (AFP) - President Ali Bongo Ondimba flew home to Gabon Saturday after several months in Morocco recovering from illness. He flew back into Libreville on Saturday afternoon, accompanied by his wife Sylvia, to be welcomed by Prime Minister Julien Nkoghe Bekale and senior members of the government. Several thousand people also turned out at the airport to greet the president after the ruling Democratic Party announced his return and called for a warm reception. They were marshalled by a strong police presence. Bongo, walking slowly with the aid of a stick, raised first one arm and then the other to greet them, an AFP journalist noted. Since he suffered a stroke on October 24 while visiting Saudi Arabia, Bongo had previously only been back to Gabon for two brief visits. His prolonged absence stoked concern about power vacuum, apparently sparking a brief attempted coup by renegade soldiers on January 7. Bongo took office after an election in 2009 that followed the death of his father, former president Omar Bongo, who took office in 1967. Two American children who had not been vaccinated by their parents have fallen ill with measles in Costa Rica, in the first case to originate in the country for 13 years. The Ministry of Health announced that it tested four American children between the ages of three and 10, who displayed symptoms of the disease after being treated at a clinic in the Cobano region. Two of them tested positive. The parents, who are American citizens with five more children, never vaccinated their kids for measles. The case is the first time an individual contracted the measles virus while residing in Costa Rica since 2006. On Thursday, Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (PANI), Costa Ricas the child welfare agency, placed the family of 11 under tight quarantine in Cabuya de Cobano to prevent them from spreading the virus. The children were treated at the CCSS (Social Security) Cobano Clinic, have had a fever since 15 March and skin breakouts since the 18th, the Health Ministry said in a statement. It is suspected that the children contracted measles from an American woman who visited the family before leaving the island on 12 March. Costa Rican officials said national surveillance protocol would be used to determine if additional actions need to be taken to prevent the spread of the virus. There will not be an epidemic of measles in our country, Daniel Salas Peraza, the minister of health, told Tico Times. But obviously, we dont want any child to suffer from measles or face the complications measles can cause. The Health Ministry believes there is no relationship between the four suspected cases and the French family that reintroduced measles to Costa Rica last month. Those cases, Costa Ricas first since 2014, also involved an unvaccinated child. It is investigating whether the infected American children came in contact with any other individuals. They have not attended school in Costa Rica. Patricia Vega, PANI executive president, said the child welfare agency has the authority to force vaccination on the children if they believe the childrens rights to health and education are at risk. Story continues We have already pronounced on our power to force the children to be vaccinated. In this case, what we ordered was that the local office initiate a special protection process, which means that the PANI will visit the family to assess if there are any violation of the rights of the children; in this case, health and education, Ms Vega told Q Costa Rica. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, measles is an airborne viral infection that is highly contagious. It is spread when an infected person sneezes or coughs and early symptoms include a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes before a rash breaks out. The Islamic State group has lost its final sliver of territory in Syria, the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces said Saturday in declaring victory over the extremists. However, the announcement came with warnings that the group remains a threat. Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the SDF, tweeted that the militant group, also known as ISIS, suffered "100 percent territorial defeat." He said that the eastern Syrian village of Baghouz, where jihadists had been mounting a last stand, "is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved." Daesh is ISIS' Arabic acronym. Bali said that the self-declared caliphate that ISIS established in 2014, and which once sprawled across much of Syria and neighboring Iraq while imposing a brutal rule on as many as 8 million people, had been eradicated. He said the SDF pledged to continue the fight against remnants of the extremist group until they are completely gone. Saturday's announcement is significant. It marks the end of a 4-year military campaign by an array of forces against the extremist group, which at its height in 2014 ruled an area the size of the United Kingdom, including several major cities and towns. It follows remarks by President Donald Trump after landing in Palm Beach, Florida, on Wednesday. "Thats what we have right now," he said while showing reporters a map comparing ISIS-held territory in Syria and Iraq in 2014 with today. The map indicated ISIS' diminished territory. It "will be gone by tonight," he said. On Saturday, the White House issued a statement from Trump announcing that the ISIS-controlled area had been liberated. "ISISs loss of territory is further evidence of its false narrative, which tries to legitimize a record of savagery that includes brutal executions, the exploitation of children as soldiers, and the sexual abuse and murder of women and children," Trump said in the statement. "To all of the young people on the internet believing in ISISs Propaganda, you will be dead if you join. Think instead about having a great life." Story continues Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and %100 territorial defeat of ISIS. On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible. #SDFDefeatedISIS Mustafa Bali (@mustefabali) March 23, 2019 But the jihadist group remains a serious threat despite repeated announcements from Trump that it had been completely defeated and that its demise meant there was no longer any reason to keep U.S. troops deployed in Syria. While ISIS has yielded all of its physical territory in Syria or Iraq, it is still a potent fighting force and continues to carry out insurgent attacks in both countries. It also maintains affiliates in Egypts Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan and elsewhere. ISIS is still "a great threat to our region and our world," said Gen. Mazloum Kobani, the commander of SDF forces. His comments were echoed by William Roebuck, the U.S.'s special envoy for Syria, who said ISIS remains a threat to the U.S. and its allies. "We cannot be complacent. Even without territory, Daesh and its poisonous ideology will continue to pose a threat to the people of Iraq and Syria, as well as to the wider world. The international community must remain firm in its determination to counter and defeat it," said Britain's foreign secretary, Jeremy Hunt, in a statement. More: Hoda Muthana, who married into ISIS, won't get fast-tracked case, judge rules According to a study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, ISIS' military capabilities are far from obliterated. The Washington-based think tank estimates the militant group may still have 20,000 to 30,000 active fighters in Syria and Iraq. Army Gen. Joseph Votel, commander for U.S. operations in South Asia and the Middle East, said in February that coalition forces needed to maintain "a vigilant offensive against the now largely dispersed and disaggregated (ISIS) that retains leaders, fighters, facilitators, resources and the profane ideology that fuels their efforts." In January, U.S. military planners and officials issued a report for the Defense Department that said ISIS "could likely resurge in Syria within six to 12 months and regain limited territory" if adequate pressure by coalition forces was not maintained. After Trump ordered a complete withdrawal of the 2,000 U.S. troops in Syria, Defense Secretary James Mattis announced his intention to resign. In February, under pressure from Congress and the Pentagon, Trump agreed to leave a residual force of about 20 to 400 U.S. troops in Syria for "peacekeeping" purposes. Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, denied in a statement this week a report in The Wall Street Journal that the U.S. military is now developing plans to keep nearly 1,000 troops in Syria. Dunford called the report "factually incorrect." More: Told to leave, ISIS caliphate holdouts in Syria stay devoted An image grab released by the Kurdish Ronahi TV on March 23, 2019 shows the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) raising their flag atop a building in the Islamic State group's bastion in the eastern Syrian village of Baghouz. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: American-backed Syrian force declares victory over Islamic State Police activity outside a block of flats on Union Lane, Isleworth after a teenager was found fatally stabbed on Friday in west London Another teenager has been stabbed to death in London. A boy, believed to be around 17, was found fatally stabbed in west London after police were called to reports of a fight. The victim was discovered with stab injuries outside a block of flats on Union Lane, Isleworth, at around 10.35pm on Friday. Officers carried out first aid and paramedics were called to the scene, but the victim was pronounced dead a short time later. Scotland Yard have launched a murder investigation. The incident is the latest instance of knife crime in the capital. Official figures have revealed that the number of criminals caught with knives or dangerous weapons has hit its highest level in nearly a decade. Last year more than 21,000 offences of possessing or making threats with blades or offensive weapons resulted in a conviction or caution in England and Wales. One in five of the culprits was aged under 18. Anyone with information to contact officers on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. The mother of an unarmed black teenager fatally shot by a white police officer as he fled a traffic stop has expressed her anger and devastation over a jurys decision to acquit the officer. Former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld was charged with homicide for shooting Antwon Rose II last June in one of the many high-profile killings of black people by white police officers. The deadly confrontation, captured on video, led to weeks of unrest and angry protests in the Pittsburgh last year, including a late-night march that shut down a major motorway. Roses father pleaded for peace on Saturday after the verdict sparked protests on the streets of Pittsburgh. Police put officers on 12-hour shifts until further notice as hundreds of people gathered at an intersection named Freedom Corner in the Hill District neighbourhood, the historic centre of black cultural life in Pittsburgh. One man held a sign with the names of black men killed by police around the US. The mostly white crowd then marched through downtown Pittsburgh and other city neighbourhoods, periodically blocking streets as they chanted: Who did this? Police did this! The protest soon moved onto the University of Pittsburgh campus. Police reported no immediate arrests or injuries. Its very painful to see what happened, to sit there and deal with it, Roses father, Antwon Rose Sr, told the crowd. I just dont want it to happen to our city no more. Afterwards, he told reporters: I want peace, period, all the way around. ... Just because there was violence doesnt mean that we counter that with violence. On Friday, a panel of seven men and five women, including three black jurors, reached their verdict after less than four hours of deliberations. Reacting to the verdict, Roses mother, Michelle Kenney, said of Mr Rosfeld: I hope that man never sleeps at night. I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none. Rose,17, had been riding in the front seat of an unlicensed cab when Zaijuan Hester, in the back, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street. Story continues A few minutes later Mr Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot Rose in the back, arm, and the side of the face as he ran away. He told the court he thought Rose or another suspect had a gun pointed at him. Neither teen was holding one when Mr Rosfeld opened fire, though two semi-automatic handguns were later found in the car. Former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld (AP) Antwons familys lawyer had pushed for a murder conviction, saying it had been pretty obvious the teenager posed no threat to the police officer, who had only been sworn in to the police department hours prior to the fatal shooting. Fred Rabner told the jury: Make no mistake, there is nothing reasonable or appropriate about the manner Officer Rosfeld took Antwons life. Defence lawyer Patrick Thomassey told reporters Mr Rosfeld was a good man and the case had nothing to do with the kids colour. Prosecutors claimed the new recruit gave inconsistent statements about the shooting, including whether he thought Rose was armed. Family members of Antwon Rose II embrace as they listen to speakers during a protest calling for justice for the 17-year-old (Justin Merriman/Getty Images) During the four-day trial witness John Leach told the jury he heard Mr Rosfeld crying and hyperventilating after the shooting and repeatedly saying: I dont know why I shot him. I dont know why I fired. However, a defence expert testified Mr Rosfeld was justified in using lethal force to protect himself and the community if he thought a suspect had just been involved in a shooting. In his closing argument assistant district attorney Jonathan Fodi declared Mr Rosfeld had acted as judge, jury and executioner, and the video evidence showed there was no threat to the officer. Roses mother added she was unsurprised by the verdict: It isnt what I hoped for, but its what I expected. Her family will now pursue the federal civil rights lawsuit they filed last August against Mr Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh police. Additional reporting by agencies A Cardi B cardboard cutout, copies of both the Federalist papers and a book about the extreme dangers posed by climate change, photos of her family and her in the Girl Scouts and, across from Cardi Bs face, a picture of Wonder Woman. Welcome to New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs office in Washington, D.C., as described by TIME. Its where dozens of people stop by each day (most of them friendly fans) and the door-knocking can come as often as every 10 minutes, with aides watchful for a threat against a woman facing widespread conservative ire. Ocasio-Cortez, 29, was not in Congress a year or even six months ago, but she has attracted significant attention since taking office, knocking out longtime Rep. Joe Crowley, a major Democratic figure in Congress. The headlines following her surprise primary victory last summer have only increased in volume and prestige. This week TIME announced Ocasio-Cortez, better known as AOC, as its next cover star. I used to be much more cynical about how much was up against us, she told the magazine. I think Ive changed my mind. Because I think that change is a lot closer than we think. (Her rapid rise to prominence has more mundane drawbacks, too: I miss being able to go outside in sweats, she said.) RELATED: Ivanka Trump & Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Square Off on Twitter Over the Average Americans Pay Check Ocasio-Cortez is the youngest woman elected to Congress and its most visible democratic socialist, which makes her a national target for conservative politicians and media, such as Fox News pundits. She is fluent in the many dialects of Twitter (the clap-back, the thread, the meme) but has also made viral moments from the daily work of legislating, including her questioning during Congressional hearings. She is a main proponent of the Green New Deal, a vast proposal to fundamentally realign Americas response to climate change, which she believes poses an existential threat to daily life. Story continues Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez | William B. Plowman/NBC/NBC NewsWire via Getty Images Still, some on Capitol Hill (anonymously) tell journalists that she is more flash than substance and that her unabashedly progressive stances, naively or not, endanger the chance of Democrats winning voters across the country. She explained to TIME: Theres always this talk about division within the Democratic Party, ideological differences. But I actually think theyre generational differences. Because the America we grew up in is nothing like the America our parents or our grandparents grew up in. RELATED: Chrissy Teigen Invites Breakout Lawmaker Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to Her House for the Grammys On Twitter Thursday, she reflected on the visibility of her cover story, which declared her the phenom and Americas lightning rod. Last year, I woke up to organize w/ my community & waitressed to make ends meet. Today, staggeringly, I woke up to this. She continued: I believe in an America where all things are possible. Where a basic, dignified life isnt a dream, but a norm. Thats why I got up then,& why I get up now. In life and now in death John McCain continues to torment Donald Trump. Trump spent last week posthumously attacking the Arizona senator on Twitter, in interviews and in public remarks at an Army tank plant in Lima, Ohio. He was horrible, Trump said in an interview on Fox News on Friday, referring to McCains role in the defeat of legislation that would have repealed the Affordable Care Act. Im not a fan of John McCain and thats fine. Despite pleas from senior Republicans to stop, Trump has continued his verbal assault on McCain, the 2008 Republican presidential nominee and six-term senator who was tortured as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. McCain died seven months ago from brain cancer. The origins of the Trump-McCain feud stretch back to the beginning of the 2016 presidential election. But their hostile relationship came to embody the battle for the soul of the Republican party a fate sealed in the presidents favor by Trumps victory and McCains death. Related: 'New bizarre low': Trump faces backlash after reviving McCain attacks Nearly a month after Trump launched his presidential bid from his hotel disparaging Mexicans as rapists and drug dealers in June 2015, he held a rally in Phoenix. McCain, never one to hold his tongue, had previously expressed disdain for the then-candidates rhetoric on immigration and the criticism had reportedly gotten back to Trump. During a stream-of-consciousness performance in Phoenix, Trump promised to take our country back and blamed incompetent politicians such as McCain for allowing illegal immigration to reach a crisis point. At the mention of the senators name, the crowd booed. Though McCain was beloved in his adopted home state, memorialized as its most fascinating son, McCain has long been more popular in Arizona with Democrats and independent voters than Republicans. Days later, McCain, who was running for re-election, said Trumps comments on immigration fired up the crazies. Trump demanded McCain apologize and then intensified his attack. He then claimed McCain graduated last in his class at Naval Academy dummy. The accusation, which Trump has repeatedly leveled at the senator, is false: McCain graduated fifth from the bottom. Story continues Their dispute exploded into a full-blown feud when Trump told an audience in Iowa that McCain wasnt a a war hero because he was captured and that he preferred people that werent captured. McCain spent more than five years in captivity in Vietnam after his plane was shot down in 1967. He refused an offer of early release. Trump received draft deferments during Vietnam for bone spurs. Related: John McCain's daughter calls Trump 'a child' in rare public comment In October, McCain announced that he would not support Trump after the publication of the 2005 Access Hollywood tape in which he bragged about grabbing women. Trump continues to identify McCain as a central antagonist of his presidency and the source of his greatest woes: blaming him for his role in presenting the FBI with an unverified intelligence report, the so-called Steele dossier, after the 2016 election. He has repeatedly and falsely blamed McCain for triggering special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and possible coordination with the Trump campaign. The FBIs investigation actually began months before it received the dossier. The president has also held a grudge against McCain for his decisive vote against repealing the healthcare law. With a dramatic thumbs-down, he denied Trump the chance to fulfill one of his central campaign promises. When he died, McCains family requested that Trump not attend the funeral services in Arizona and Washington. Former presidents George Bush, who defeated McCain during the 2000 GOP nomination fight, and Barack Obama, who defeated him in 2008, delivered eulogies. For his part, Trump approved the military transport of McCains body, and, after much criticism, ordered the flags to half-staff. Trumps remarks last week drew a smattering of public denunciations from elected Republican officials, who remain wary of antagonizing the president and his ferociously loyal supporters. Related: Republicans' silence over Trump's attacks on McCain is truly shameful | Lloyd Green Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican of South Carolina who is an ally of the president and was one of McCains closest friends, said: I think the presidents comments about senator McCain hurt him more than they hurt the legacy of senator McCain. Senator Johnny Isakson, a Republican of Georgia, called the remark, deplorable and said he would continue to speak out in his former colleagues defense. Republican congressman Dan Crenshaw, a former NAVY Seal, implored Trump to seriously stop talking about Senator McCain. Trumps rolling commentary on McCain has confounded the late politicians family and friends. We only said goodbye to him almost 7 months ago, his daughter Bridget McCain said in a rare public statement. Even if you were invited to my dads funeral, you would have only wanted to be there for the credit and not for any condolences. Unfortunately, you could not be counted on to be courteous, as you are a child in the most important role the world knows. Canopy Growth (NYSE: CGC) is Canada's largest marijuana stock by revenue, but its future is going to be far less determined by legal marijuana sales in Canada than it will be by sales in the United States. This leading purveyor of pot has already announced plans to create a hemp industrial park in New York state to establish a footprint in the world's biggest marijuana market, and on Thursday, it announced it's acquiring AgriNextUSA, a U.S. hemp-focused real estate company. Here's what Canopy Growth is saying about its plans to profit from potential U.S. legalization. Reversing regulations Marijuana remains a schedule 1 controlled substance in the U.S., so it's still illegal at the federal level. However, 33 states have passed pot laws establishing marijuana marketplaces in some form, including 10 states that have created recreational, adult-use markets. A marijuana leaf on a table. IMAGE SOURCE: GETTY IMAGES. The momentum for widespread legalization in the U.S. is accelerating. According to Gallup, 2 in every 3 Americans support ending federal marijuana prohibition of its recreational use, including 75% of Democrats and 53% of Republicans. The improving attitude among voters toward marijuana is likely to result in more states creating recreational-use markets, including in New Jersey. It's also causing legalization to become a cornerstone policy among U.S. presidential candidates. If Congress eventually legalizes marijuana nationally, it would be a boon for publicly traded cannabis companies, including Canopy Growth. Until recently, Canopy Growth and its peers have been prevented from targeting the U.S. because of major stock exchange listing requirements that prevent stocks from engaging in business activities where federal law prohibits it. In December, the U.S. Farm Bill removed hemp, a nonpsychoactive form of cannabis sativa, from the controlled substance list, creating a pathway for individual states to set up regulated hemp markets that Canada's cannabis companies can participate in. Story continues Eyes on the big prize The global marijuana market is worth an estimated $150 billion per year, according to the United Nations, and the U.S. accounts for a whopping $50 billion of that spending. Most of the American market is conducted in the shadows, however -- billions of dollars per year in marijuana sales have been shifting to legal, regulated markets since Colorado became the first state in the U.S. to open an adult-use marketplace in 2014. Today, legal marijuana sales total about $8.4 billion annually, according to GreenWave Advisors' Matt Karnes, including $4.4 billion in recreational-use sales. The change in regulating hemp doesn't mean Canopy Growth will be able to sell marijuana in the U.S. yet, but it does give the company the opportunity to establish infrastructure to develop and market hemp-based products, and that infrastructure could eventually be leveraged for marijuana if marijuana also gets a federal nod of approval. A man looks through binoculars while sitting at a table. IMAGE SOURCE: GETTY IMAGES. Recognizing the opportunity associated with hemp, Canopy Growth announced in January it's received a license from New York state to create a hemp industrial park there. Canopy Growth expects to spend between $100 million to $150 million at a soon-to-be-announced location that will eventually allow it to process hemp and develop hemp-based products, including products containing cannabidiol, or CBD, a chemical associated with health benefits that's naturally occurring in hemp and marijuana. CBD products are widely available in the U.S., with all but three of the 50 states allowing its use as medicine. The U.S. CBD market is valued at roughly $600 million, and it could grow into a billion-dollar-plus-sized market in the future if regulators cooperate and mass-market retailers begin selling the products. Today, CBD products are usually only available at smaller natural foods stores or head shops or via prescriptions through medical marijuana dispensaries. The opportunity to use hemp as a gateway ahead of potential marijuana legalization nationwide has Canopy Growth CEO Bruce Linton excited. In announcing the AgriNextUSA acquisition, Linton said, "The United States is the next stop on Canopy Growth's desired path to becoming a leading, revenue-generating company focused on all aspects of cannabinoids and their potential." AgriNextUSA's CEO is Geoff Whaling, a hemp advocacy pioneer who is chairman of the National Hemp Association. Its focus is on creating hemp-based parks like the one Canopy Growth is planning in New York. Whaling and AgriNextUSA will "accelerate Canopy Growth [CGC]'s entry into key American jurisdictions as regulations surrounding the full use of hemp as a crop begin to be implemented," according to the company. The future hemp industrial parks they plan on building will allow hemp to be "fast-tracked through a production cycle that would result in commercial applications for all parts of the plant, from root to tip," providing farmers with a one-stop shop that can serve as a "single, regional destination for their hemp crops" that "connects them with the researchers, entrepreneurs and innovators whose ideas will turn their crops into new products and industries." Canopy Growth thinks the hemp market and hemp-derived products could disrupt several industries, including cosmetics, textiles, food, and health. If so, then Canopy Growth may become increasingly dependent on the U.S. for revenue growth in the future. More From The Motley Fool Todd Campbell has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. His clients may have positions in the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Teachers at an Indiana elementary school were left bruised, bleeding and frightened after being shot "execution style" with plastic pellets during an active-shooter training exercise in January, according to the Indiana State Teachers Association. It's shocked teachers, parents and psychologists alike, renewing the debate around active shooter and lockdown drills: Where is the line between preparing teachers and students and traumatizing them? Are drills effective in preventing school shooting deaths? Or harmful to all involved who, despite the seeming ubiquity of school shootings, are unlikely to endure one? "The teachers were terrified, but were told not to tell anyone what happened," the Indiana State Teachers Association said on Twitter. "Teachers waiting outside that heard the screaming were brought into the room four at a time and the shooting process was repeated." The drill in Monticello was conducted by the White County Sheriff's Department. Teachers were supposed to be receiving what is called ALICE training, which is used in thousands of schools around the country. "In that situation you are helpless, in that situation you are in pain, in that situation you feel danger. And those are the markers that define trauma," said clinical psychologist Azmaira Maker. Lockdown drills have been around for decades, but as fear of school shootings has intensified, they have become more widespread and elaborate. According to a 2016 Government Accountability Office survey, almost all of the nations public schools participated in lockdown drills the previous year, and 67 percent held active shooter drills. Those that did not said they were concerned the exercise, which often involves a live simulation of an armed assailant, would create too much fear. We asked our 50-person @USATODAY Network education team if they'd heard about this elsewhere in the country. People had heard of training using nerf guns or real gunshot sound effects, but nothing really close. https://t.co/sqQERf45bT Chrissie Thompson (@CThompTweets) March 22, 2019 It's already known that lockdown and active shooter drills can "produce anxiety, stress, and traumatic symptoms in some students or staff," according to the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Story continues Yet nearly all schools conduct one or the other, some multiple times per year, though some psychologists say there is scant evidence some of these approaches are effective. "We are living in a reactive time where schools are adopting policies which have no evidence of protecting schools and can actually create more anxiety for staff and kids hiding under desks, arming kindergartners with cans of food is the wrong direction," said Nancy Rappaport, a part time associate professor in psychiatry at Harvard medical school. "Building safe communities is about creating caring relationships, anonymous tip lines and a culture where kids share their concerns." NASP said research supports the effectiveness of lockdown drills when best practices are used, but more data is needed to determine the effectiveness of armed assailant drills. The dangerous element of surprise NASP says one of the most important things schools can do when conducting an active shooter lockdown drill is to prepare people for what's going to happen. "Those teachers from Monticello did not expect what they were put through," said AFT Indiana President GlenEva Dunham, who said drills for her teachers have not been nearly as intense. "We all go in open-minded ... but what they did to those teachers, not to give them warning of what they were up against they were welted up and bleeding. You don't do people like that." Sara Zaske has two children, a 9-year-old son and a 12-year-old daughter. She said both have had lockdown drills at their schools without warning. Her son was so upset that she wrote a letter to her school district last year expressing concern about the "surprise" lockdowns. She says she never received a response. "[My son] finds it very frightening," Zaske said. "I tell him to be calm. I also tell him despite the rise in active shooters, and you hear these horrible stories, it's still incredibly rare. It's really unlikely there's a shooter in his school." A January report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found school-associated homicides represent less than 2% of all youth homicides in the United States. While students had "duck and cover" drills in the 1950s to prepare for nuclear war, students and teachers had never seen nuclear bombs dropped on U.S. soil. Today students and teachers have seen school shootings happen in communities all over the country with TV news and social media broadcasting details of the tragedies on loop. "Some kids could be seeing images on social media of shootings in Parkland and New Zealand spending a lot of time feeling like the world is an unsafe place," said Katherine Cowan, staff liaison for NASP's school safety and crisis work and co-author of their armed assailant drill guidance document. "And without social support networks to help them move away from that kind of thinking, they could be at risk for having a more significant reaction to these kinds of drills." It's a bigger deal to some teachers and kids Active shooter drills can be frightening for anyone. The threat of danger, even when simulated, can feel very real. But for people who have experienced previous trauma, active shooter lockdown drills can be especially triggering, mental health experts say. "If kids or teachers have had a history of trauma even if you tell them we're doing a lockdown drill Tuesday and this is what's going to happen when they're physically in the situation and they're re-experiencing the significant danger, the physical memories in your body and your brain just fire up," Maker said. Maker said that's why it's important for schools to work with psychologists and education specialists in the planning of drills. Schools may even be able to identify ahead of time, through school counselors, kids who should not participate, whether because of trauma or sensorial issues. Some experts question how lifelike these simulations need to be. You don't dive the plane and fill the cabin with smoke to teach people to put their oxygen masks on, Cowan said. "How you react is going to vary if you're a 65-year-old teacher who has a heart problem, or a 6-year-old child who has high anxiety, or you are a kid whose parents are going through a divorce you're more vulnerable, and that can lead to a stronger reaction," she said. Active-shooter drills proliferated after the Columbine school shooting in 1999, when law enforcement realized that they needed better understanding of how to stop a shooter in a school setting. "There is value in law enforcement and lead school administrators understanding things like whether communications are working properly or what the layout of the school is," Cowan said. "But when you start to add groups of people into that simulation who are outside of that nexus, that's when you see additional risks." Emergency personnel from Clemson University and surrounding areas participate in an active shooter exercise at Daniel Hall Tuesday, Mar. 19, 2019. Is there a better way? NASP says there are ways to mitigate the psychological effects of lockdown and active drills, including: Follow best practices: NASP suggests all schools reference the Best Practice Considerations for Schools in Active Shooter and Other Armed Assailant Drills, which it helped develop to provide guidance on factors schools should consider when conducting armed assailant drills, including prior trauma and special needs. Plan: Let teachers, children and parents know a drill is going to take place. Do not surprise them. Always announce lockdown drills when they are happening. Opt-out: Give people the option not to participate, especially when props, such as airsoft guns, are used. Monitor during the drill: If someone is exhibiting signs of trauma, remove them. Feedback: When developing a plan for drills, give people the ability to provide feedback on what worked and what didn't. Feedback is important because the efficacy and impact of these drills is still being determined. "If you're using pellets, do a survey ... ask participants, did you have nightmares, sleeplessness, anxiety?" Maker said. "In any situation if you're caught and you're being hurt you're going to have a psychological reaction." Cowan said lockdown drills can be done in ways that are thoughtful and responsible, and that even for more extreme versions of active shooter drills, there are strategies to conduct the exercises appropriately. "We feel strongly that drills and practicing are very important," Cowan said. "It's not, 'don't do it'. It's what you do and how you do it that's really important." Dunham says what teachers want is to be a part of the conversation. "My thing is, ask us what we want," Dunham said. "They didn't ask us if wanted active drills. They just decided. We've got a lot to say, but no one ever listens. They just want us to go into the classroom and teach, but we know the world is a lot bigger than that." You may also be interested in: This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Terrified': Teachers, kids hit hard by shooter drills Like other political operatives, John Koza keeps tabs on the Electoral College map. But hes not looking at big swing states like Florida and Pennsylvania. Instead, the head of the National Popular Vote advocacy group is keenly interested in the states that presidential campaigns recently stopped caring as much about. Its those states places like Colorado and Nevada that he believes could change the way America picks its presidents. Koza, who has a Ph.D. in computer science, calls them jilted battlegrounds: states that had a taste of being the center of attention in a hard-fought presidential election is like, then lost it as they drifted away from swing-state status. He believes these states are key to shutting down the Electoral College for good, and sooner than youd think. 2020 is a reach, he said. I do think itll be done by 2024. Abolishing the Electoral College has long been a staple of dorm-room discussions and dinner-table speculation. But President Donald Trumps Electoral College win in 2016 despite losing the popular vote by nearly three million votes has given new urgency to reformers. Democratic presidential candidates are increasingly vocal on the issue. Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren called for abolishing the Electoral College during a town hall on CNN earlier this week, joining South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg. California Sen. Kamala Harris said shes open to the discussion, while former Texas Rep. Beto ORourke said he sees wisdom in the idea. In response, Trump who once called the Electoral College a disaster for democracy tweeted that he now believes its far better for the U.S.A. to keep it. ....just the large States - the Cities would end up running the Country. Smaller States & the entire Midwest would end up losing all power - & we cant let that happen. I used to like the idea of the Popular Vote, but now realize the Electoral College is far better for the U.S.A. Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 20, 2019 Its not just Trump whos switched sides. In 2011, 54% of Republicans told the Pew Research Center that the U.S. should elect presidents by popular vote. After Trumps win in 2016, that number dropped dramatically, to just 32% in a similar Pew poll in 2018. By contrast, 75% of Democrats in the 2018 poll backed abolishing the Electoral College. Story continues That switch in party sentiment is one reason that skeptics doubt the movement to abolish the Electoral College can succeed. A constitutional amendment which would require a two-thirds vote in Congress and ratification by two-thirds of states, if not an unheard-of constitutional convention, seems nearly impossible with this kind of polarization. But Koza, who helped create the scratch-off lottery ticket earlier in his career, believes he found an elegant way around that problem: Convincing states to join an interstate compact pledging to give their electors to the winner of the national popular vote. (The compact would go into effect once states representing a majority in the Electoral College have joined.) Hes lobbied for states to join the compact since 2006, by coauthoring a book on the idea and talking with state lawmakers. So far, 12 states plus Washington, D.C., have joined, including big states like California, Illinois, New Jersey and New York; medium-sized states like Maryland, Massachusetts and Washington; and smaller states like Rhode Island and Vermont. Colorado joined this week, and bills are awaiting the signatures of the governors of New Mexico and Delaware. If those last two states join, it would put the total electors in the compact at 189, 81 shy of the 270 needed for it to go into effect. Thats where things start to get tricky. So far, all of the states that have joined are historically blue states. The remaining blue states Oregon, Michigan and Minnesota could bring the interstate compact idea within striking distance. But to reach 270, its going to take more than that. Thats where the jilted battleground theory comes into play. Colorado and New Mexico would be the first former battlegrounds to join the compact, and Koza thinks Nevada and Virginia are in a similar position. Those are all red-to-blue states that became Democratic strongholds, and more likely to back an idea that has strong support among grassroots Democrats. But Koza, a registered Democrat who served as an elector in 1992 and 2000, thinks the popular vote could cross the finish line with the support of some former battlegrounds that are increasingly Republican, such as Ohio. If it ends up overlooked in the 2020 race, he argues, state lawmakers could have a light bulb moment and join the effort, especially if a Democrat ends up in the White House. Not everyone is convinced by Kozas theory. Colorado political consultant Rick Ridder, a Democrat, said he thinks the states decision to back the compact had more to do with its increasingly Democratic lean. Plus, he noted that Colorado wouldnt lose influence either way, since the Denver metropolitan area the 26th biggest in the country would still be a target for ads, campaign visits and get-out-the-vote efforts under a national popular vote. Reed Hundt, head of the bipartisan Making Every Vote Count advocacy group, thinks the states that will put it over the top might instead come from a successful ballot measure driven by grassroots support. Twenty-six states allow voters to approve either an initiative or a referendum on an issue, including potential interstate-compact targets like Ohio, Missouri and Arizona. The important thing is public opinion, the former FCC chairman said. The American people by large numbers need to say, Whats up with this 18th century artifact? We dont need to let it pick the president for us. We should pick ourselves.' Whichever strategy activists pursue in the next few years, the interstate compact is both closer than ever to success and still far from the finish line. A handful of medium-sized states could make the 2020 election the last one held under the current Electoral College system or the effort could find itself in perpetual limbo, tantalizingly close to 270 but never quite there. Even if enough states join, it would also likely face a constitutional challenge. Rob Natelson, a noted constitutional scholar and member of the Federalist Society, has argued that the compact violates other states constitutional rights to choose their electors. Hundt remains optimistic that it will succeed eventually, in part because he thinks Electoral College results will increasingly cut against the popular will. A statistical analysis in 2017 done for Making Every Vote Count predicted splits between the Electoral College and the popular vote could happen in nearly one out of three elections in the next century, and neither party is likely to have a long-term advantage. Based on how members of both parties have reacted in the past, a Republican loss under those circumstances would likely move public opinion on the right pretty quickly. And that, Hundt believes, could be what finally makes the difference. WASHINGTON The country might be divided on a whole host of political issues but on Friday, one thing seemingly united everyone: Special counsel Robert Mueller's report should be made public. From members of Congress and advocacy organizations to everyday people and those close to the president, nearly everyone has come to the same conclusion that releasing the report would end speculation surrounding the lengthy investigation, which has left a cloud over Donald Trump's presidency. Mueller gave his confidential report to Attorney General Bill Barr Friday afternoon, wrapping up his probe examing Russian interference in the 2016 election and any possible collusion between Russia and President Donald Trump's campaign. Barr said in a letter to Congress that he was "reviewing the report, and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." But the conclusions are just the start and likely not to quell the intense calls for the report to be released in its entirety. More: Special counsel Robert Mueller delivers report marking end of investigation into Trump's campaign, Russia More: Read Attorney General Barr's letter to Congress announcing end of Mueller's Russia probe Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on the Russia investigation MUST be made public. Elected officials work for the people. We have a right to know if President Trump and his associates coordinated with Russia to interfere in our elections. ACLU (@ACLU) March 22, 2019 "Elected officials work for the people and we deserve to see government business conducted in daylight," the American Civil Liberties Union's director David Cole said. "The Americans people have a right to know if President Trump and his associates coordinated with Russia to interfere in our elections, the full extent of Russian efforts to affect our elections, and any attempts to interfere with Special Counsel Mueller's investigation." Story continues Cole, who heads the left-leaning organization, urged for the Justice Department to "release the report swiftly." "If the Department of Justice does not make the Mueller report public, Congress should use its subpoena powers to make sure the truth sees the light of day," he added. The call echoed nearly everyone on social media Friday after the news broke that Mueller had finished his investigation. The Witch Hunt is over! Make the report public. Millions of taxpayer dollars wasted. Corey R. Lewandowski (@CLewandowski_) March 22, 2019 "The Witch Hunt is over! Make the report public. Millions of taxpayer dollars wasted," wrote Corey Lewandowski, a fierce advocate for Trump who previously served as his campaign manager. A group of left-leaning advocacy organizations, including MoveOn.org, released plans to host nationwide protests if the report was not made public. "If Barr/Trump hides the report from the public, we will take the streets again to demand that they #makeitpublic & #releasethereport," a No matter your partisan views, the Mueller report should be made public to the full extent possible, subject only to unavoidable redactions. We must insist on that. website for the events read. It wasn't just those in Washington making these demands. Brain Klaas, a political scientist at the London School of Economics, said releasing the report publicly should be a given and not a debate. No matter your partisan views, the Mueller report should be made public to the full extent possible, subject only to unavoidable redactions. We must insist on that. Brian Klaas (@brianklaas) March 22, 2019 "No matter your partisan views, the Mueller report should be made public to the full extent possible, subject only to unavoidable redactions. We must insist on that," he wrote on Twitter. Rep. Jim McGovern summed up the general feelings of most people succinctly: "Make. The. Whole. Thing. Public." the Massachusetts Democrat wrote on Twitter. Make. The. Whole. Thing. Public. Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) March 22, 2019 Lawmakers on both sides were quick to call for transparency. However, Republican comments generally were vague, calling for what was legally allowed to be made public. Democrats generally were more aggressive in their calls for the report to be released. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York released a joint statement saying it's "imperative for Mr. Barr to make the full report public." They called upon Barr to not give President Donald Trump, his lawyers or his staff a "sneak preview" of the special counsel's findings or evidence. The president himself has called, without qualification, for the report to be made public, Schumer said later. There is no reason on Gods green earth why Attorney General Barr should do any less. Across the aisle, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., called for time for Barr to review the report. McConnell said in his statement he hopes Barr will provide as much information as possible and "with as much openness and transparency as possible. A CNN poll earlier this week found 87 percent of people believed Mueller's findings should be made public. Only 9 percent said they didn't believe it was necessary. Contributing: Deborah Barfield Berry, Eliza Collins and Ledyard King This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: It's not just Congress. People on social media demand public release of Mueller report By Colin Packham SYDNEY (Reuters) - Prime Minister Scott Morrison's re-election prospects got a lift on Saturday when Australia's most populous state, New South Wales (NSW), returned his ruling Liberal Party to power. The NSW election, less than two months before a federal poll, was seen as a test case of Morrison's strategy to seek re-election on the back of his government's economic record. Speaking shortly after victory was confirmed, Morrison said the victory in NSW foreshadowed a federal victory in May. "In two months, we'll be back here to celebrate another Liberal/National win," Morrison told supporters in Sydney. Morrison's government is, however, well behind the main opposition Labor party in the most recent polls, trailing by 54 percent to 46 percent on a two-party preferred basis. While the Australian economy is the envy of many, NSW's finances are in even better shape. Unemployment in NSW is at a near record low, below even the national level which on Thursday was pegged at 4.9 percent. State coffers have also swelled, topping more than A$400 billion ($286.44 billion) last year to be worth more than the economies of Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, despite signs of a property price-led pullback. But echoing national discontent, Morrison's Liberal Party saw support ebb away in NSW as some voters felt they have not enjoyed the benefits of the soaring economy. Despite this and the Liberal Party's coalition partner, the Nationals on course to lose several seats that may cost the government an outright majority, the main opposition Labor party conceded NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian will retain power. Morrison will now hope to capitalize on the victory when his government delivers its final budget ahead of the election. The conservative government has promised to deliver the country's first budget surplus in a decade and armed with a hefty war chest, Morrison is likely to also promise tax cuts. (Reporting by Colin Packham; Editing by Alexander Smith) By Paul Sandle LONDON (Reuters) - Mike Lynch, once hailed as Britain's answer to Bill Gates, faces Hewlett-Packard (HP) in London's High Court on Monday in a multi-billion dollar showdown over the U.S. technology company's 2011 purchase of the Autonomy software business he founded. The case is part of a dispute between HP and Lynch lasting more than six years over who is to blame for the disastrous deal, which ended up costing the Silicon Valley stalwart's shareholders billions of dollars. HP is seeking damages of around $5 billion from Lynch and his former colleague Sushovan Hussain, alleging that they inflated the value of Autonomy before selling the big data firm, whose software searches and organises unstructured information, such as telephone conversations. Lynch has denied the allegations and said the failure of the $11 billion acquisition was down to HP's mismanagement. The 53-year-old, whose doctoral thesis is one of the most consulted at Cambridge University, is counter-suing for more than $160 million for loss and damage caused by HP's actions. Autonomy was supposed to be the centrepiece of a plan to transform HP from a PC and printer maker into a software-focused enterprise services firm, a shift successfully undertaken by IBM in the previous two decades. Lynch has been engaged in a war of words with HP ever since he was fired by former HP CEO Meg Whitman in 2012 less than a year after the deal was completed. The entrepreneur has maintained his standing in the British tech scene by investing in a string of new companies and through membership of bodies such as the Royal Society. However, the stakes in the dispute escalated in November when Lynch and Stephen Chamberlain, another former Autonomy executive, were indicted for wire fraud in the United States, a charge that carries a maximum term of 20 years imprisonment. An amended indictment filed on Friday added charges against both men, including a securities fraud count against Lynch that could subject him to a 25-year prison term. Lynch has stepped down from his government advisory role and from Royal Society committees. Hussain was found guilty in a related case in April 2018, but has not yet been sentenced. SOFTWARE STRATEGY The Autonomy deal started to turn sour before it was even completed. Many shareholders baulked at the 79 percent premium, the architect of the strategy CEO Leo Apotheker was sacked and HP's board looked into the possibility of walking away. And a little over a year after it was completed, HP said it had discovered "serious accounting improprieties" that had inflated the value of Autonomy, writing off more than $5 billion in relation to the botched deal. That is the sum it is now seeking from Lynch, who received about $800 million for his stake in Autonomy, and Hussain. HP will argue that Autonomy's management made undisclosed, loss-making hardware sales and misrepresented revenue to inflate Autonomy's value, its claim shows. Lynch will deny all of HP's claims, his defence says and a counterclaim document shows. In it Lynch says that HP's executives have campaigned over a number of years to shift the responsibility for their failures in the acquisition and integration of Autonomy onto him. The case is set to last until the end of year and it could then take the judge another six months to reach a decision. (Editing by Alexander Smith and Richard Chang) By Brad Brooks and Anthony Boadle SAO PAULO/BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazil's former President Michel Temer was arrested on Thursday in "Operation Radioactivity," a probe of alleged graft in the construction of a nuclear power plant, threatening to delay debate over the government's ambitious fiscal reforms. Temer was president from 2016 to 2018, taking office after the impeachment of Dilma Rousseff, who he served under as vice president for six years. His lawyer confirmed he was arrested in Sao Paulo, and his legal team has lodged an appeal for Temer to be freed. Prosecutors alleged that Temer was the leader of a "criminal organization" that took in 1.8 billion reais ($472 million) in bribes or pending future kickbacks as part of numerous schemes, including one related to the Angra nuclear power plant complex on the Rio de Janeiro coast and other state firms. The former president's Brazil Democratic Movement party long held sway over key appointments in Brazil's largely state-run energy sector, including nuclear power plants. Brazil's currency and the Bovespa stock index both slipped around 1 percent, as the arrest grabbed the attention of Congress just as it was taking up a bill to save some 1 trillion reais in social security spending over a decade. "This could slow down the pension reform process, which is already disappointing," Danilo Gennari, partner at Brasilia-based political consultancy DRG. "Temer's arrest will not help the climate in Congress." Federal police also arrested Temer's former minister and confidant Wellington Moreira Franco, who is married to the mother-in-law of Rodrigo Maia, the speaker of the lower house of Congress and a leading proponent of pension reform. Temer and Moreira Franco have repeatedly denied previous accusations of wrongdoing. Maia was not immediately available for comment. Asked about the arrest during a trip to Chile, President Jair Bolsonaro said "everyone must respond for their actions" and that Temer's fate was the result of traditional corrupt political practices that he has vowed to end. Brazil's sweeping "Car Wash" probe has uncovered what U.S. prosecutors called the world's largest graft scheme, starting with political bribery involving oil company Petroleo Brasileiro SA and spreading to other sectors and public works. Over 150 powerful politicians and businessmen have been convicted in relation to the investigation since 2014, which has reshaped the country's political and business landscapes. Temer is the second former president to be arrested in the anti-corruption push. Former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is in jail serving over 12 years for a corruption conviction. Voters' anger over long-running graft fueled the ascent of Bolsonaro, a far-right politician who served 30 years as a fringe lawmaker, but rose to power on the back of pledges to end graft in Brasilia. Since Bolsonaro took office on Jan. 1, federal police began a money laundering probe of his son, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro. NUCLEAR COMPLEX Work on Angra 3, the third nuclear power plant planned in Brazil's Angra complex, has advanced haltingly since 1984 and has long been on the radar of graft investigators. The complex is run by Eletronuclear, a unit of state power holding company Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA, or Eletrobras. Shares of Eletrobras, which has been the focus of shifting privatization plans in recent years, fell nearly 3 percent on Thursday. In 2016, Othon Luiz Pinheiro da Silva, the former chief executive of state nuclear power company Eletronuclear, was sentenced to 43 years in prison on a corruption conviction. Silva colluded with executives at Brazilian engineering firms Andrade Gutierrez and Engevix to receive kickbacks in return for overbilling on the Angra 3 construction, court records show. Temer, who left office with an approval rating of 7 percent, had not been formally cited in the case. But federal investigators alleged on Thursday he took at least 1 million reais in bribes in 2014 in relation to a contract at the nuclear complex won by Engevix and the Brazilian subsidiary of the Finnish firm AF Consult LTD. AF Consult did not respond to requests for comment. Engevix said it had no comment. Prosecutors told a news conference that Temer, who was a federal lawmaker for more than 15 years before becoming vice president, had been a part of schemes diverting public funds since the 1980s. "The criminal group that was arrested today .... has been in operation for more than 40 years," said federal prosecutor Fabiana Schneider. The group included a "counterintelligence" arm that tried to thwart any criminal charges by monitoring investigations and the prosecutors themselves, feeding false documents to authorities to mislead them, the prosecutors said. A federal judge in Rio de Janeiro granted an arrest warrant for Temer that prosecutors requested on preventative grounds, citing an ongoing payment scheme. Temer was hit with separate corruption charges during his presidency that were blocked by allies in the lower house of Congress, which must authorize charges against a sitting president. Temer, 78, previously led the MDB, a regionally fragmented party with no consistent ideology that for two decades held the most seats in Congress, making it a major power broker. The son of Lebanese immigrants who arrived in Brazil in 1925, Temer was the youngest of eight children and began his political career in the 1960s as an aide in Sao Paulo state's education secretariat. The governor at the time, Ademar de Barros, one of the first politicians to inspire the popular Brazilian saying about their leaders: "He steals, but he gets things done." (Reporting by Brad Brooks in Sao Paulo and Anthony Boadle in Brasilia; additional reporting by Rodrigo Viga Gaier, Gabriel Stargardter and Pedro Fonseca in Rio de Janeiro, Ricardo Brito in Brasilia and Marcelo Rochabrun in Sao Paulo; editing by Brad Haynes and Tom Brown) Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller, the husband-and-wife duo behind the [AD100 practice Carrier and Company Interiors] (https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/carrier-and-company-interiors-ad100), arent exactly newbies when it comes to furniture. Weve been doing custom pieces for years, says Miller. Weve just never designed that many all at once. That many would be the more than 50 chairs, sofas, tables, cabinets, and beds that they are unveiling for Century Furniture this month. Remarkably, the project marks their first commercial collection since they launched their firm in 2005. RALPH LAUREN CARRIER & COMPANY BOOK SIGNING EVENT Photo by Benjamin Lozovsky/BFA.com. Some of the introductions strike a familiar tone. The Osborne banquette was adapted from the tufted settee they created for Jessica Chastains Manhattan dining room, while the Bee wingback chair is based on one conceived for Vogues lobby. (It is named after Anna Wintours daughter, Bee Carrozzinilike her mother a client.) Throughout the collection, a love of historic silhouettes prevails. We trained before the internet, so weve been going to auctions and junk shops for so long, notes Miller. Adds Carrier, Antiques and custom are our comfort zone. Images courtesy of Carrier and Company. What attracted them to Century, Miller explains, was that its not just a company in the business of selling furnitureits a company that really makes furniture. When she and Carrier visited the brands North Carolina factory, CEO Alex Shuford III (grandson of the founder) was on his hands and knees with a staple gun, nail, and hammer. The couple mined that bespoke craftsmanship to enhance the collections form and function, from a showstopper bed frame with brass rivets to a parchment-wrapped dresser that has hidden compartments to hide unsightly gadgets. For us theres an interest in mixing different pieces together, says Miller. We like things that can stand out, and we also like things that are simple. centuryfurniture.com Tim Burton and Colin Farrell attend the European premiere of Dumbo held at Curzon Mayfair, London. Doug Peters/EMPICS Its been a long time since Colin Farrell first played an angry young man in the BBCs Ballykissangel no less. These days, hes switched his bad boy image for fatherhood and family films. He opened up about his rise to fame, getting sober and failing his final Boyzone audition on the couch with Lorraine Kelly this week. In a relaxed and candid chat, Farrell chatted about surviving Hollywood. It was fun for a while, but a real desire to live saved me. And the birth of my first son James was a moment in my life when I realised I wasnt just living for myself anymore. I had a little baby that didnt need a best friend, he needed a dad. He was about two when I got sober. He went on to reveal the first ever box set he binged on Queer as Folk and how close he came to almost being a member of Boyzone. I was tone deaf. They made me sing Carless Whisper twice because they couldnt believe how bad I was. Read more: Colin Farrell: I Sang Careless Whisper For Boyzone Audition There was one embarrassing moment when the In Bruges star forgot the name of a cousin, he was saying hello to live on air. Finally remembering, he laughed it off saying, Lorraine makes me nervous when she wears leopard skin print. Farrell is in the UK promoting new film, Dumbo, director Tim Burtons reimagining of the classic Disney adventure. When he signed on the dotted line to star in the production, he thought his kids would be impressed, but he was wrong, especially not his youngest. I was so excited to tell them both that I was doing it a couple of years ago, but he went Dumbo, tutted, and then went neerrr and did this thing with his hand. Read more: Colin Farrell: Screen time is a curse for children Farrell will return to his BBC roots, when he stars in the BBC Two thriller The North Water, about a dangerous whaling expedition to the Arctic Circle. The saga starts shooting in the autumn. Washington (AFP) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller has remained silent for nearly two years about his Russia meddling and collusion investigation, which wrapped up on Friday. But a vast story of conspiracy, possible collusion and obstruction has been told in documents that have emerged from the probe, particularly court filings in Mueller's indictment of 34 individuals and convictions of five former Trump associates. Here's what we have learned up until now: - The Russian conspiracy - In two conspiracy indictments Mueller described a cohesive effort under the auspices of Russian President Vladimir Putin to interfere in the 2016 presidential election to undermine Democrat Hillary Clinton and aid Republican candidate Donald Trump. One charged 12 hackers of the GRU military intelligence agency with stealing specifically Democratic Party materials and leaking them to WikiLeaks. The hackers "targeted over 300 individuals affiliated with the Clinton Campaign, DCCC, and DNC," it said, referring to two key national Democratic bodies. The second indictment named 13 Russians with the Internet Research Agency (IRA), a St. Petersburg troll farm controlled by Evgeny Prigozhin, a close associate of Putin. They were accused of running a massive "fake news" campaign on social media targeting US voters beginning in 2014. The IRA "had a strategic goal to sow discord in the US political system.... By early to mid-2016, defendants' operations included supporting the presidential campaign of then-candidate Donald J. Trump... and disparaging Hillary Clinton." WikiLeaks was not charged, but court filings said it actively communicated with the GRU hackers offering to help publish the stolen Democratic materials. - Trump campaign collusion with Russia - The investigation showed frequent, willing contacts between members of the Trump campaign and Russians or intermediaries with Moscow, more than 100 by some counts. Story continues Trump campaign aides made multiple efforts to arrange a pre-election meeting between him and Putin and to obtain Russian "dirt" on Clinton. "Have been receiving a lot of calls over the last month about Putin wanting to host him and the team," foreign policy advisor George Papadopoulos told an unidentified senior campaign official in an April 2016 email. He also told the campaign the Russians proposed to give him information damaging to Clinton. The investigation also revealed the June 9, 2016 Trump Tower meeting between top members of the campaign and a Russian lawyer offering dirt on Clinton. "If it's what you say I love it," Trump's son Don Jr. wrote in an email to the publicist who arranged the meeting. The indictments detailed secret communications between Trump national security advisor Michael Flynn and Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak. In them Flynn urged cooperation that effectively would undermine the policies of still-president Barack Obama. Court documents also showed campaign chairman Paul Manafort sharing polling data with a man with Russian intelligence links. And two associates of the campaign, Roger Stone and Jerome Corsi, communicated with WikiLeaks about its plans for releasing hacked communications from Clinton's operations. - Obstruction - Mueller's team meanwhile investigated actions by Trump that could support charges of obstruction of justice. That began with Trump's pressing FBI director James Comey in early 2017 to pull back on the investigation, and then his firing of Comey that May. Trump also reportedly repeatedly pressured then attorney general Jeff Sessions to reverse his decision to recuse himself from the Mueller probe; sought several times to have Mueller fired; and allegedly encouraged associates to lie about Russia contacts and other behavior. Trump also allegedly dangled pardons to indicted associates to prevent them from providing evidence against him. - Hush payments - A spinoff case from Mueller's investigation showed that, under Trump's direction his former lawyer Michael Cohen illegally used campaign funds to buy the silence of an adult film actress about an alleged affair she had with Trump in the 2000s. - Corrupt campaign chiefs - The investigation showed that former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his deputy chair Richard Gates had engaged in money laundering, tax evasion and other financial crimes related to their work from Russia-backed politicians in Ukraine in the decade before the 2016 race. Both maintained their contacts, which included a suspected Russian intelligence agent, Konstantin Kilimnik, through the 2016 campaign. According to reports, Mueller or spinoff investigations have also looked into the huge sums of money donated to the Trump transition and inauguration operations, which were partly overseen by Gates. There are indications that investigators have evidence of illegal foreign donations and misuse of funds. - Business with Russians - The investigation of Michael Cohen showed that the Trump Organization pursued a potentially huge real estate deal for a Trump Tower in Moscow throughout the 2016 campaign. Also reportedly examined were the Trump Organization's marketing of properties since the 2000s to wealthy Russians, with some of the sales raising questions of money laundering. By Terje Solsvik and Gwladys Fouche OSLO (Reuters) - Rescue helicopters were evacuating people from a cruise ship which suffered engine failure on Saturday in stormy weather off the west coast of Norway, police and rescue workers said. The maritime rescue service said the Viking Sky, with about 1,300 passengers and crew on board, had sent out a mayday signal as it had been drifting towards land. The crew were later able to restart one engine and the ship was at anchor about 2 km from land. Passengers were hoisted one-by-one from the deck of the vessel and airlifted to a village just north of the town of Molde on Norway's west coast. About 100 people had been evacuated by 1530 GMT, police said. "If we need to evacuate everyone, it will take a long time," rescue service spokesman Einar Knudsen told Reuters. Two purpose-built vessels operated by the Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue had been forced to turn back due to the severe weather, the service said. Waves were 6-8 metres high, with wind blowing at 24 metres per second, according to the Norwegian Meteorological Institute. The storm is expected to last at least until midnight local time (2300 GMT). The stretch of water known as Hustadvika is known for its fierce weather and shallow waters are dotted with reefs. The Norwegian government is evaluating whether to build a giant ocean tunnel through a nearby mountain to improve safety. The Viking Sky, built in 2017, belongs to Viking Ocean Cruises, part of the Viking Cruises group founded by Norwegian billionaire Torstein Hagen. According to the company's website, its passenger capacity is 930. Several vessels and four helicopters took part in the rescue and facilities to receive passengers have been set up on land, the rescue service said. All search and rescue teams in the region are mobilising, including 60 volunteers from the Norwegian Red Cross, a spokesman said. Viking's operational headquarters, located in Basel, Switzerland, did not respond when contacted by telephone. (Additional reporting by Stine Jacobsen; Editing by Alexander Smith and Angus MacSwan) Crypto exchange ShapeShift boss Erik Voorhees took to Twitter this morning to hit out at Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reporter Paul Vigna. Mr @paulvigna your work on crypto may not age well. Might I suggest sticking to your better talent of authoring books on The Walking Dead itself a fitting label for the banks and financial institutions sponsoring and patronizing the @wsj #factsmatter https://t.co/1VHLCxfvbC Erik Voorhees (@ErikVoorhees) March 23, 2019 Last year, the newspaper ran an article entitled How Dirty Money Disappears Into the Black Hole of Cryptocurrency. This claimed that ShapeShift had facilitated at least $9 million worth of money laundering over several years with a parade of suspected criminals. At ShapeShifts request, CipherBlade carried out a review of the article and, surprise, surprise, its findings, released this past week, were damning. The WSJs reporters produced a very misleading and factually incorrect article about ShapeShift, it concluded. It appears impossible to objectively reproduce their work or reach conclusions even remotely close to the claims made in the story about transactions that can be publicly reviewed by anyone with a basic understanding of the technology. We encourage the WSJ to publish the transaction IDs that support their claim that $9 million in illicit assets that were laundered through ShapeShift, and we welcome any independent forensic reviewer to use that data to rebut our analysis published here. Final word to Vigna, who responded immediately to Voerhees The Walking Dead jibe. Nice comeback, sir. Yeah, the Walking Dead book was pretty good, wasn't it? Thanks! Paul Vigna (@paulvigna) March 23, 2019 The post Your crypto work wont age well, Erik Voorhees tells WSJ journo appeared first on Coin Rivet. The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) has officially endorsed Bernie Sanders for president, with the organization throwing its growing political clout behind the Vermont senator ahead of the 2020 election. The DSAs National Political Committee leadership team voted to back Sanders during a meeting on Thursday night, after the rank-and-file membership had earlier overwhelmingly pledged their support. The backing of the DSA will provide a further fillip to Sanders, who quickly outraised most of his rivals for the Democratic nomination. The DSA endorsed Sanders in 2016 and helped the leftwing candidates Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib win long-shot elections to Congress in 2018. Related: Who is running for president? The full list of 2020 Democratic candidates He has the best possible chance of the Democratic field to beat Trump, said Jeremy Gong, a member of the NPC who voted to endorse Sanders. Specifically because he has a working-class political agenda, as opposed to an elite, or moderate, or corporate-friendly agenda that is not exciting to anyone electorally except a very small number of either Democratic party diehards or upper middle class or wealthy people. Sanders announced his run for president on 19 February and raised $5.9m in the first 24 hours of his campaign, second only to Texass Beto ORourke among Democratic candidates. Sanders is running second, behind Joe Biden, in most polling of Democratic candidates although the pair are probably benefitting from superior name recognition at this point in the election cycle. The DSA has seen a dramatic increase in membership since the 2016 election, rising from 5,000 members to more than 55,000. Ocasio-Cortez is the highest-profile beneficiary of the DSAs political heft, her victory in New Yorks 14th congressional district aided by the wealth of volunteers DSA can offer access to. Gong said the DSA was still working on its strategy to support Sanders, who is advocating for Medicare for All, a $15 minimum wage and a Green New Deal climate policy. There are more than 100 chapters in the US and each will decide how to promote Sanders. But Gong said the DSA was looking beyond just electing Sanders as president. Story continues Sanders alone, once in office, is not capable of pushing through these reforms, Gong said. Related: Bernie Sanders reignites enthusiasm on 2020 campaign trail We need to have a mass movement of ordinary people building organizations like the DSA, building their union, going on strike, demonstrating in the streets, pushing for his radical reform agenda. The DSA also aims to elect progressive candidates to local government across the country. Six democratic socialists are running for election to the Chicago city council this year, and despite Republicans seeking to use the term democratic socialist to denigrate Democrats, the DSA is continuing to grow. Sanders, 77, has been criticized in some quarters for entering what promises to be the most diverse race for the Democratic nomination in history, but Gong pointed to some polling which shows Sanders is popular among black and Latino voters, and said there is not a deep bench of candidates who have the politics and reach of the veteran senator. Itd be better and preferable if Sanders was not an old white man, and that there be someone who has the same track record, and the same politics and the same potential to transform our society that Sanders does, Gong said. [But] there is no one else who is advancing the Sanders agenda and building a movement in the way that Sanders is who could also be elected president. Washington (AFP) - Top US Democrats on Friday demanded the full special counsel report on Russian interference in the 2016 election be released publicly with no "sneak preview" for President Donald Trump. Many of the party's challengers for the 2020 presidential nomination, including senators Bernie Sanders and Kamala Harris, swiftly joined calls for full transparency after Special Counsel Robert Mueller submitted his report to Attorney General Bill Barr. "It is imperative for Mr Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement. Barr "must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public." As the nearly two-year investigation wrapped up, Democratic presidential hopefuls demanded the White House release the report on Russian election meddling and possible collusion with Trump's campaign. "Attorney General Barr -- release the Mueller report to the American public. Now," tweeted Senator Elizabeth Warren, a staunch Trump critic and liberal candidate challenging him in 2020. The document is confidential, but Barr said in a letter to Congress that he might be able to summarize its "principal" conclusions as early as this weekend. The sentiment among at least nine 2020 Democrats was unanimous: let the report come to light. "I call on the Trump administration to make Special Counsel Mueller's full report public as soon as possible. No one, including the president, is above the law," Sanders tweeted. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who holds a campaign launch event Sunday across the street from Manhattan's Trump Tower, also weighed in to say Americans "have a right to know its findings." Story continues Senator Kamala Harris, the former attorney general of California, joined her presidential rivals in demanding "total transparency" but took it a step further. "AG Barr must publicly testify under oath about the investigation's findings," she added. Trump has repeatedly branded the investigation a "witch hunt," but on Wednesday he revealed that he wanted Mueller's final report made public. Several Democratic and Republican lawmakers urged transparency in the report's handling. But Senate Judiciary Committee chairman Lindsey Graham, a Republican ally of the president, suggested there was a possibility that some of the report could be withheld. "I will work with... colleagues to ensure as much transparency as possible, consistent with the law," he said. Experts say the report is unlikely to be revealed in the raw, as it could have confidential data on people not charged, as well as top secret information on sources. But the leaders of six House committees, including Judiciary chairman Jerry Nadler, made explicitly clear that the president "must be subject to accountability." If the Justice Department feels it is unable to do so it must provide Congress with the probe's full evidence. "To then withhold evidence of wrongdoing from Congress because a sitting president cannot be charged is to convert Justice Department policy into the means for a cover-up," they warned. The Daily Beast Nuccio DiNuzzo/GettyA juror in the Jussie Smollett trial has explained several reasons why the jury felt there was no way they could acquit the star actor in his bombshell trial for staging a fake hate crime attack on himself. The female juror, who declined to be named, told the Chicago Sun-Times that the jury of six women and six men didnt have any major disagreements but they took nine hours to deliberate because they wanted to properly consider all the evidence. Some doubted that prosecutors Kinshasa (AFP) - The head of DR Congo's electoral commission on Saturday denied US allegations that he was involved in the embezzlement of funds intended for the country's presidential election. The United States on Friday imposed new sanctions on Corneille Nangaa and two other Congolese officials who monitored last year's polls. The Treasury Department froze Nangaa's US assets. Washington accuses the trio of corruption and of obstructing democracy in December's presidential election. "I have never been involved in any kind of corruption," Nangaa said on Twitter on Saturday. "We acted according to the guidelines of the (electoral commission) board and under the control of the parliament." The US Treasury sanctions also target commission vice president Norbert Basengezi and Marcellin Mukolo Basengezi, a son of Basengezi who is an adviser to Nangaa. The election saw Felix Tshisekedi controversially declared the winner, with the blessing of outgoing president Joseph Kabila. It marked the country's first peaceful handover of power since independence from Belgium in 1960. Fellow opposition leader Martin Fayalu accused Nangaa of rigging the results. Dubai (AFP) - Dubai has projected the image of New Zealand premier Jacinda Ardern onto its iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest skyscraper, in thanks for her response to last week's mosque shootings. Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum praised Ardern's "support to the Muslim community" after a white supremacist gunman attacked two mosques on March 15, killing 50 people. "Thank you PM @jacindaardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world," he wrote on Twitter. A photo from Dubai's Public Diplomacy Office showed Burj Khalifa lit up with a picture of Ardern in a hijab, warmly embracing a Muslim affected by the tragedy, under the word "peace" in Arabic and English. Ardern has been widely praised for her handling of the tragedy, meeting victims' families and moving quickly to tighten gun laws while calling for global efforts against extremism online. Cairo (AFP) - An Egyptian court on Saturday referred to experts the case of Nile islanders seeking to avoid eviction by the government, a defence lawyer said. The ruling by the administrative court comes nearly two years after Egyptian authorities moved to demolish "illegal" buildings on Warraq island, across from central Cairo. The operation triggered violent clashes between residents and security forces, with at least one person being killed before the campaign was suspended. The government maintains its actions were aimed at removing "encroachments" on state property, in order to develop the impoverished island. Authorities claim illegal buildings have created an informal residential area which should be cleared, although officials deny the plans are intended to make way for a luxury investment project. Many of Warraq's residents insist they hold legal property contracts and took the case to court to challenge the government's decision. Saturday's ruling is "a preliminary procedure that would allow experts to check the veracity of the residents' appeal claims," said defence lawyer Sayed Ibrahim. The legal proceedings will take months and a verdict is not expected until after June, Ibrahim said. The fate of the islanders has drawn the attention of the United Nations' expert on housing rights, Leilani Farha. "The government has expressed an interest in initiating luxury developments throughout Cairo," she said in October after a visit to Egypt. "There is concern that the island... will fall prey to this vision." She has since criticised "new expropriations and home demolitions", triggering charges from the government of "unfounded allegations" over its housing policies. Emilia Clarke has opened up about surviving two life-threatening brain aneurysms during the early days of Game of Thrones. In an article for the New Yorker, Clarke spoke publicly for the first time about suffering two brain aneurysms, the first of which struck shortly after she finished filming her scenes as Daenerys Targaryen for season 1 of Game of Thrones. She revealed that she experienced her first aneurysm at 24 years old while working out with her trainer. I immediately felt as though an elastic band were squeezing my brain. I tried to ignore the pain and push through it, but I just couldnt. I told my trainer I had to take a break, she wrote. Somehow, almost crawling, I made it to the locker room. I reached the toilet, sank to my knees, and proceeded to be violently, voluminously ill. Meanwhile, the painshooting, stabbing, constricting painwas getting worse. At some level, I knew what was happening: my brain was damaged. Clarke was rushed to the hospital where she underwent minimally invasive surgery for a subarachnoid hemorrhage, a.k.a. bleeding in the brain. A little more than two weeks after her surgery, Clarke discovered that she was suffering from aphasia, a condition that impairs a persons ability to process language. In Clarkes case, she couldnt recall her own name. Id never experienced fear like thata sense of doom closing in, she said of that time period. I could see my life ahead, and it wasnt worth living. I am an actor; I need to remember my lines. Now I couldnt recall my nameIn my worst moments, I wanted to pull the plug. I asked the medical staff to let me die. My jobmy entire dream of what my life would becentered on language, on communication. Without that, I was lost. The aphasia passed after about a week, but before Clarke left the hospital, she was told that she had a smaller aneurysm on the other side of her brain that could pop at any time. Two years later, when she went in for a brain scan after finishing season 3 of Game of Thrones, doctors told her that the aneurysm had doubled in size and it would be best to take care of it. Although she was promised a relatively simple operation, the procedure failed and Clarke was left with a massive brain bleed that required a subsequent fully invasive surgery. But in spite of all the complications, Clarke said that she has fully recovered in the years since. I have healed beyond my most unreasonable hopes, she wrote. I am now at a hundred per cent. By Gabriela Baczynska and William James BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Britain could leave the European Union without a Brexit deal on April 12 if lawmakers fail next week to back Prime Minister Theresa May's agreement with Brussels, EU leaders said after a crisis summit in Brussels on Thursday. With just a week to go until Britain risks lurching out into legal limbo at midnight (2300 GMT) next Friday, EU leaders gave May an extra two months, until May 22, to leave if she wins next week's vote in parliament. But she failed to convince the other 27 that she would succeed, prompting a frantic seven hours of talks to find a way to get Britain out without seeming to push. The conclusion was a deal that suggested that Britain could, if May fails, come back and ask for a much longer delay. But this would be on the condition -- likely a major stumbling block -- that it takes part in elections to the new EU parliament on May 23. For it to do so, British election law says that would have to be announced six weeks beforehand, by April 12. If it does not call an EU election, Britain will be out. "The European Council agrees to an extension until 22 May 2019, provided the Withdrawal Agreement is approved by the House of Commons next week," the statement said. "If the Withdrawal Agreement is not approved by the House of Commons next week, the European Council agrees to an extension until 12 April 2019 and expects the United Kingdom to indicate a way forward before this date for consideration by the European Council." (Reporting by Robin Emmott, Gabriela Baczynska, Elizabeth Piper, Richard Lough, Anthony Deutsch, Philip Blenkinsop, Giulia Paravicini, William James, Thomas Escritt, Jan Strupczewski and Alastair Macdonald in Brussels and Guy Faulconbridge and Kylie MacLellan in London Writing by Alastair Macdonald, Jan Strupczewski and Elizabeth Piper; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Alastair Macdonald) By Maggie Fick and Jason Neely ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - The captain of a doomed Ethiopian Airlines flight did not get a chance to practice on his airline's new simulator for the Boeing 737 MAX 8 before he died in a crash with 157 others, a pilot colleague said. Captain Yared Getachew, 29, was due for refresher training at the end of March, his colleague told Reuters, two months after Ethiopian Airlines had received one of the first such simulators being distributed. The March 10 disaster, following another MAX 8 crash in Indonesia in October, has set off one of the biggest inquiries in aviation history, focused on the safety of a new automated system and whether crews understood it properly. In both cases, the pilots lost control soon after take-off and fought a losing battle to stop their jets plunging down. The MAX, which came into service two years ago, has a new automated system called MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System). It is meant to prevent loss of lift which can cause an aerodynamic stall sending the plane downwards in an uncontrolled way. "Boeing did not send manuals on MCAS," the Ethiopian Airlines pilot told Reuters in a hotel lobby, declining to give his name as staff have been told not to speak in public. "Actually we know more about the MCAS system from the media than from Boeing." Under unprecedented scrutiny and with its MAX fleet grounded worldwide, the world's largest planemaker has said airlines were given guidance on how to respond to the activation of MCAS software. It is also promising a swift update. Boeing did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the pilot's remarks. It has not said 737 pilots should train on one of the new simulators to fly a 737 MAX, which has larger engines mounted slightly more forward than the previous model. "I think that the differences between the 737 NG and the MAX were underplayed by Boeing," said John Cox, an aviation safety consultant, former U.S. Airways pilot and former air safety chairman of the U.S. Airline Pilots Association. "Consequently the simulator manufacturers were not pushing it either. The operators didn't realize the magnitude of the differences," he told Reuters in a communication over the Ethiopian pilot's remarks. AIRLINE CHIDES "IRRESPONSIBLE" VIEWS Ethiopian Airlines said on Thursday its pilots had completed training recommended by Boeing and approved by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on differences between the previous 737 NG aircraft and the 737 MAX version. They were also briefed on an emergency directive after the Indonesia crash, which was incorporated into manuals and procedures, it said in a tweet. The 737 MAX simulator was not designed to replicate the MCAS system problems, it added. "We urge all concerned to refrain from making such uninformed, incorrect, irresponsible and misleading statements during the period of the accident investigation," it said. Yared's brother said he traveled to Miami twice in the last two years to train on a simulator there, but he did not know which one. Miami has had a 737 MAX simulator since 2017. Globally, most commercial airline pilots refresh training in simulators every six months. In the Ethiopian crash, it was not clear if Yared's colleague - First Officer Ahmednur Mohammed, 25, who also died in the crash - had used the new simulator. The 737 MAX 8 was introduced into commercial service in 2017, but pilots of older 737s were only required to have computer-based training to switch, according to Boeing, airlines, unions and regulators. By December, two months after the Lion Air crash that killed 189 people off Jakarta, the main simulator producer CAE Inc of Canada said it had delivered just four MAX simulators to airlines. At that time, CAE had orders from airlines globally for 30 MAX simulators, which cost between $6 million and $15 million each depending on customization. The world's largest 737 operator, Southwest Airlines Co, will not have its first MAX simulator ready for use until October, its pilot union said on Wednesday. "It is still very disturbing to us that Boeing did not disclose MCAS to the operators and pilots," the association told members in a memo seen by Reuters. (Additional reporting by Allison Lampert in Montreal and Tracy Rucinski in Chicago; Writing by Jamie Freed and Katharine Houreld; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) By Lesley Wroughton and Roberta Rampton WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Inter-American Development Bank on Friday called off next week's meeting of its 48 member countries in China after Beijing refused to allow a representative of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido to attend, two sources with knowledge of the decision said. The sources said the decision was made in Washington on Friday at a meeting of the executive board of the IADB, Latin America's largest development lender, after China refused to change its position. The sources said the board would vote within 30 days to reschedule the annual meeting for another date and location. On Thursday, the United States threatened to derail the March 26-31 meeting unless Beijing granted a visa to Guaido's representative, Harvard economist Ricardo Hausmann. The meeting, slated to bring together finance and development ministers from the lender's members, was meant to mark the bank's 60th anniversary. Guaido invoked the constitution to assume Venezuela's interim presidency in January, saying the re-election of President Nicolas Maduro was not legitimate. Most Western countries have recognized Guaido as head of state, but Russia and China, among others, back Maduro. One source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters on Thursday that China had proposed that no representative from either Maduro's or Guaido's camps attend the meeting to "depoliticize" the gathering. The White House was not immediately available to comment, and China's embassy in Washington did not respond to an emailed question on the IADB's decision. In a statement posted later on its website, the IADB confirmed that the meeting would not take place on March 28-30 in the city of Chengdu as planned, but it did not give a reason. China's foreign ministry said in its own statement it regretted the decision but bore no responsibility. Spokesman Geng Shuang said China "had difficulty allowing" Guaido's representative to attend because Guaido himself lacked legal standing. "Changing Venezuela's representative at the IADB won't help solve Venezuela's problems and (the proposal) damaged the atmosphere of the IADB annual meeting and disturbed preparations for the meeting," he said. The Washington-based IADB was the first multilateral lender to replace a Maduro-selected representative with one backed by Guaido. The move would eventually open lines of credit to Venezuela should Maduro step down. The International Monetary Fund and World Bank have so far not made a decision on whether to recognize Guaido officially as head of state. Had the annual meeting taken place next week, it would have been the first time the IADB held it in China. The Asian country has become a major player in Latin America and has poured more than $50 billion into Venezuela over the past decade in oil-for-loan agreements. Trump administration officials have called on the IADB since last year to hold the meeting in the Americas, where all of its borrowers are located. With relations between Washington and Beijing marred by an acrimonious trade dispute, U.S. officials have expressed concern in recent months at China's growing influence in Latin America - a region Washington has long regarded as its backyard. (Reporting by Lesley Wroughton and Roberta Rampton; Additional reporting by John Ruwitch in Shanghai and Ben Blanchard in Beijing; Editing by Leslie Adler and Rosalba O'Brien) By Stefanie Eschenbacher and Dave Graham ACAPULCO, Mexico (Reuters) - Various companies in Mexico, including Uber Technologies Inc., have shown interest in using a new mobile payments system developed by the country's central bank that seeks to promote financial inclusion, the head of the bank said on Friday. Banco de Mexico Governor Alejandro Diaz de Leon said in an interview with Reuters that the bank was seeking to educate companies about how the program could potentially be used. Called CoDi, the platform would allow customers to make and receive payments through their smartphones free of charge. When asked if Uber, the San Francisco-based ride-hailing firm, was one of the companies that had expressed interest, Diaz de Leon confirmed it had. But he noted that many prospective users were still trying to get to grips with how they might use CoDi. "In general, I'd say there is lots of interest in understanding the platform," Diaz de Leon said. "The idea is to listen to all of these potentially interested companies and see how we can... incorporate the biggest quantity of possible users to the platform. And they can be of all kinds." Uber in Mexico declined to comment. The central bank has already been in touch with Amazon.com Inc and its Argentine rival, MercadoLibre, about adopting the system, the bank's head of payments had told Reuters earlier this month. CoDi was one of the focal points of the annual Mexican banking conference at the beach resort of Acapulco where banks promoted the use of the payments system. Diaz de Leon also said that the service could potentially help companies harness data to better serve customers. "We feel that it could be very useful for other companies that have big and powerful databases," he said. Mexico's new leftist government under President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is betting on financial technology to help lift people out of poverty in a country where more than 50 percent, an estimated 42 million people, lack bank accounts. Broad acceptance of CoDi would mark an important step in its financial inclusion strategy. Phone-based banking is popular in other emerging markets such as China, India and Kenya, and has been driven by user-friendly, affordable apps from private companies. (Reporting by Stefanie Eschenbacher and Dave Graham; Writing by Julia Love; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Diane Craft) BEIRUT, March 23 (Reuters) - U.S.-backed fighters say they have captured Islamic State's last shred of ground in eastern Syria - but while its era of territorial rule may be over for now, there is near universal agreement that IS remains a threat. WHAT HAS ITS TERRITORIAL DEFEAT ACCOMPLISHED? Islamic State's possession of land in Iraq and Syria set it apart from other like-minded groups such as al Qaeda and became central to its mission when it declared a caliphate in 2014, claiming sovereignty over all Muslim lands and peoples. The destruction of the quasi-state it built there has denied the group its most potent propaganda and recruiting tool as well as a logistical base from which it could train fighters and plan coordinated attacks overseas. It also freed its former subjects from summary executions and draconian punishment for breaking its strict laws or, for some minorities, sexual slavery and slaughter. Warfare wiped out thousands of its fighters. And, financially, its defeat deprives it of greater resources than any modern jihadist movement has enjoyed, including taxes on its inhabitants and the proceeds of oil sales. WHAT THREAT DOES ISLAMIC STATE STILL POSE IN IRAQ AND SYRIA? In its previous guise as an al Qaeda offshoot in Iraq a decade ago, IS navigated adversity by going underground, biding its time to rise suddenly again. Since suffering devastating territorial losses in 2017, IS has steadily turned again to such tactics. Sleeper cells in Iraq have staged a scatter-gun campaign of kidnappings and killings to undermine the Baghdad government. The group has also carried out many bombings in northeast Syria, which is controlled by U.S.-backed Kurdish forces, including one that killed four Americans in January. Kurdish and U.S. officials say it remains a menace there. In Syria, IS fighters still have a presence in sparsely populated territory west of the Euphrates River in an area otherwise held by the Syrian government. Story continues The U.S. Pentagon's internal watchdog released a report last month saying Islamic State was regenerating functions and capabilities more quickly in Iraq than Syria. "Absent sustained (counterterrorism) pressure, ISIS could likely resurge in Syria within six to 12 months and regain limited territory," the report said. WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO ITS LEADERS, FIGHTERS AND FOLLOWERS? The fate of the IS leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, remains a mystery. The U.S. government's top experts strongly believe he is alive and possibly hiding in Iraq, U.S. sources recently said. Other top-echelon leaders have been killed in air strikes. Thousands of Islamic State insurgents and civilian followers have also been killed and thousands more captured. An unknown number remain at large in both Syria and Iraq. Iraq is putting on trial, imprisoning and often executing IS detainees. The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) holds many hundreds of Islamic State fighters and followers, but the numbers have ballooned as the SDF advanced into the area near Baghouz. The SDF said over the past two months, more than 60,000 people had left the Baghouz enclave, including 29,000 surrendering Islamic State supporters, 5,000 of whom were fighters. Many low-level local operatives have been released in Syria. The SDF complains that Western states are reluctant to take back the foreign fighters, who are widely seen as a security threat at home but who might be hard to legally prosecute. CAN IT STILL ORGANISE OR INSPIRE ATTACKS OVERSEAS? As Islamic State clung to its last scrap of land, the head of Britain's spy agency MI6 warned that the group would return to "asymmetric" attacks. Even after it began losing ground militarily, IS still claimed responsibility for attacks made in different countries, though often these have been blamed on "lone wolves" without its direction. It started years ago to call on followers abroad to plan their own attacks, rather than focusing purely on ones staged by trained operatives supported by the group's hierarchy. In early 2018 the head of U.S. military central command said Islamic State was resilient and remained capable of "inspiring attacks throughout the region and outside of the Middle East." WHAT DOES ITS FALL MEAN FOR THE FUTURE OF GLOBAL JIHAD? Although Islamic State's core territory was in Iraq and Syria, jihadists fighting in other countries, notably Nigeria, Yemen and Afghanistan, pledged their allegiance to it. Whether those groups will still wear its mantle, especially if Baghdadi is captured or killed, is an open question, but there seems little chance they will soon end their campaigns. Al Qaeda also retains numerous franchises around the world, and other militant Islamist groups operate in countries where normal governance has broken down. Jihadist ideology has long proven itself able to mutate as circumstances change, and there is no shortage of warfare, injustice, oppression, poverty, sectarianism and naked religious hatred for Islamist militants to exploit. (Reporting by Angus McDowall, editing by Louise Heavens) By Sarah N. Lynch and Jan Wolfe WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Now that Special Counsel Robert Mueller has submitted the report on his investigation of Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. election, Attorney General William Barr must decide how much of the document - if any - to make public. Justice Department regulations governing special counsels adopted in 1999 give Barr, the top U.S. law enforcement official, broad discretion in deciding how much to release to Congress and the public. Barr, in his January Senate confirmation hearings after being nominated by Trump, promised to "provide as much transparency as I can consistent with the law" - a pledge that still gives him a lot of wiggle room. Trump said on Wednesday he does not mind if the public is allowed to see the report. Mueller was named special counsel in May 2017 by the department's No. 2 official, Rod Rosenstein, to take over an investigation that had been headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He examined whether Trump's 2016 campaign conspired with Russia and whether the president unlawfully sought to obstruct the probe. Trump has denied collusion and obstruction and Russia has denied election interference. Here is an explanation of the rules Barr must follow and the political pressures that he faces in deciding on disclosure of Mueller's findings. WHAT DO JUSTICE DEPARTMENT REGULATIONS CALL FOR? Justice Department regulations do not require the release of the entire special counsel report but also do not prevent Barr from doing so, giving him leeway to disclose it if it is in the public interest. Special counsels can be appointed by the department to investigate matters of high sensitivity that are not handled through the normal channels. The department placed limits on special counsel powers in the 1999 regulations creating the post. The regulations state that when an investigation is conducted a special counsel must provide the attorney general a "confidential report" explaining why particular individuals were or were not charged. The regulations require Barr to notify the top Republicans and Democrats on the House of Representatives and Senate Judiciary Committees that the investigation has ended. Department policy calls for Barr to summarize the confidential report for Congress with "an outline of the actions and the reasons for them." According to the regulations, Barr "may determine that public release of these reports would be in the public interest, to the extent that release would comply with applicable legal restrictions." In deciding what to release, Barr may have to confront thorny legal issues involving secrecy of grand jury testimony, protecting classified information, communications with the White House possibly subject to the principle of executive privilege shielding certain information from disclosure, and safeguarding confidential reasons for why some individuals were not charged. WHAT POLITICAL PRESSURE MIGHT BARR BE FEELING? Some Democrats have expressed concern Barr may try to shield Trump and bury parts of the report. Barr may feel pressure from the Republican president to conceal damaging parts of Mueller's report and release any findings that may exonerate him. Barr, 68, is a veteran Washington insider who also was attorney general from 1991 to 1993 under Republican President George H.W. Bush. He has embraced an expansive view of presidential powers but also is considered a defender of the rule of law. Trump fired Barr's predecessor, Jeff Sessions, in November after complaining for months about Sessions' 2017 decision to recuse himself from overseeing the Russia investigation. WHAT IF BARR DECLINES TO RELEASE THE FULL REPORT? Democrats control the House and some already have pledged to subpoena the report and Mueller and go to court if necessary to secure its full release. The House on March 14 voted 420-0, with four conservative Republican lawmakers voting "present," to approve a non-binding resolution urging Barr to make public everything in Mueller's report that is not expressly prohibited by law and to provide the entire document to Congress. HOW HAVE OTHER SPECIAL COUNSEL REPORTS BEEN HANDLED? Only two special counsels have been appointed under the 1999 regulations: Mueller and former Senator John Danforth, who was appointed that same year to investigate the deadly 1993 federal raid on the Branch Davidian cult compound in Waco, Texas. Danforth's report in 2000 cleared government officials of wrongdoing. In appointing Danforth, Attorney General Janet Reno specifically directed him to draft a report for public release on his findings, which he did. Rosenstein made no such demand on Mueller. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch and Jan Wolfe; Writing by Will Dunham; Editing by Bill Trott) By Sarah N. Lynch WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller, examining potential conspiracy between President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign and Russia, is leading the latest in a series of high-profile U.S. investigations conducted by prosecutors outside usual Justice Department channels in recent decades. The release of the findings by previous investigators analogous to Mueller has been handled differently, sometimes with voluminous reports and other times with no reports or with key elements kept under wraps for months and even years. Mueller is preparing to submit a report to U.S. Attorney General William Barr on his findings, including Russia's role in the election and whether Trump unlawfully sought to obstruct the probe. The Republican president has denied collusion and obstruction. Russia has denied election interference. Barr already is coming under pressure from lawmakers to make the entire document public quickly, though he has wide latitude in what to release. Here is an explanation of some past investigations and how their findings were made public. WATERGATE SCANDAL The Justice Department named a special prosecutor to investigate the Watergate scandal that eventually forced Republican Richard Nixon in 1974 to become the only U.S. president to resign from office. At the time, no specific regulations or laws governed special prosecutors. Attorney General Elliot Richardson, as a condition of his Senate confirmation, appointed Archibald Cox as a special prosecutor to examine the 1972 break-in by Republican operatives at Democratic headquarters at the Watergate complex in Washington. Cox found himself at odds with Nixon over subpoenas to obtain taped White House conversations. Nixon ultimately ordered the firing of Cox, and several top Justice Department officials resigned in protest including Richardson, in an event dubbed the Saturday Night Massacre. Leon Jaworski, subsequently named as the new Watergate special prosecutor, prepared a report with his findings, known as the "road map," to assist Congress with possible impeachment proceedings to remove Nixon from office. The House of Representatives Judiciary Committee used it as a basis for hearings and passed articles of impeachment, though Nixon quit before the full House could act. The 1974 "road map" remained under seal by a federal court until it was released by federal archivists in 2018. IRAN-CONTRA AFFAIR The job of independent counsel, with broader powers, was created by Congress after the Watergate scandal. In 1986, Lawrence Walsh was named as independent counsel to investigate the Iran-Contra affair involving illegal arms sales to Iran under Republican President Ronald Reagan, with the proceeds diverted to fund rebels in Nicaragua called Contras. The probe lasted nearly seven years and led to criminal charges against 14 people. The convictions of some prominent officials - Oliver North and John Poindexter - were overturned on appeal. In 1992, Republican President George H.W. Bush pardoned others. Walsh submitted his final report in 1993 to a federal court, which had the power to release it publicly but was not required to do so. Its release was delayed after people identified in the report sued to keep it suppressed. A federal appeals court ruled in 1994 that it should be released in the public interest. Walsh then unveiled it at a news conference. WHITEWATER AND LEWINSKY SCANDALS Attorney General Janet Reno in 1994 appointed Robert Fiske as a independent counsel to investigate allegations of impropriety by Democratic President Bill Clinton and first lady Hillary Clinton regarding real estate investments in the Whitewater Development Corporation. Fiske's probe was expanded to include reviewing the death of Deputy White House Counsel Vince Foster, which police had ruled a suicide. Fiske, who was not subject to the independent counsel law because it had temporarily lapsed, publicly released an interim report in 1994 clearing White House officials of wrongdoing in the Whitewater affair and confirming that Foster's death was a suicide unrelated to Whitewater. On that same day, Clinton signed a law reauthorizing the independent counsel statute, which paved the way for a federal court to replace Fiske as independent counsel with Kenneth Starr. Starr turned in a report on Foster's death to federal courts in 1997, also finding no foul play. It remained under seal for three months before being released. Starr's probe expanded into other areas, including a sexual affair between Clinton and White House intern Monica Lewinsky and alleged improprieties in the White House travel office. His expansive 445-page report, containing explicit details on Clinton's sexual affair, was sent to Congress in 1998. Two days later, lawmakers voted to release it publicly. Its findings triggered an unsuccessful Republican effort to remove Clinton from office through the impeachment process. In 2018, Starr wrote that he regretted taking on the Lewinsky part of the investigation, but felt he had no other option. Congress let the independent counsel law expire, with some lawmakers believing Starr went too far. The Justice Department in 1999 wrote regulations creating the new job of special counsel, with more limited powers. FEDERAL RAID AT WACO Reno in 1999 appointed John Danforth as special counsel to investigate the 1993 federal raid on the Branch Davidian cult compound in Waco, Texas. The FBI used tear gas and a fire broke out, killing more than 70 people including cult leader David Koresh. Danforth was the first person appointed under the 1999 regulations, the rules that now apply to Mueller. Under those rules, a special counsel must submit a confidential report to the attorney general, who then has discretion to publicly release some or all of it. The attorney general must weigh the public interest. But he also must consider thorny issues such as secrecy of grand jury testimony, protecting classified information, communications with the White House possibly subject to the principle of executive privilege shielding certain information from disclosure, and safeguarding confidential reasons for why some individuals were not charged. Reno specifically instructed Danforth to prepare two versions of his report, a confidential one and another for public release. Rod Rosenstein, the Justice Department's No. 2 official, gave no such instruction to Mueller when he appointed him in May 2017. In 2000, Danforth held a news conference to publicly release his report, exonerating federal agents and Justice Department officials of any wrongdoing. OUTING OF CIA AGENT PLAME In 2003, James Comey, then the Justice Department's No. 2 official, appointed Patrick Fitzgerald as special counsel to investigate how CIA operative Valerie Plame's cover was blown through media leaks. Fitzgerald was not appointed under the 1999 regulations and was not bound by them. Fitzgerald held a 2005 news conference to announce that a grand jury had returned a five-count indictment against Vice President Dick Cheney's chief of staff, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, for obstruction of justice, perjury and making false statements. Fitzgerald never published a final report on his findings. A jury convicted Libby. Republican President George W. Bush commuted his sentence in 2007. Trump gave Libby a full pardon in 2018. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch; Editing by Will Dunham) MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) Gunmen set off a suicide car bombing and then stormed a government building in Somalia's capital Saturday, killing at least five people including the country's deputy labor minister, police said. It was the latest attack by Islamic extremists in the troubled Horn of Africa nation. After an hours-long gunbattle, Somalia's security forces took back control of the building in Mogadishu on Saturday afternoon from at least five attackers who forced their way into the government building that houses the ministries of labor and public works, police Capt. Mohamed Hussein told The Associated Press. Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, Somalia's deputy minister of labor and social affairs, was killed in his ground-floor office shortly after gunmen entered the building, he said. Hussein said at least 10 other people were wounded in the attack, which the al-Qaida-linked al-Shabab extremist group has claimed responsibility for. Dozens of people were inside the building at the time since Saturday is a working day in Somalia. The building is not far from the headquarters of the Somali intelligence agency. As the attack unfolded, gunfire could be heard from inside the building. White smoke billowed from the scene, according to witnesses. A similar attack targeting a busy area in Mogadishu at the end of February killed at least 24 people. Al-Shabab, Africa's most active Islamic extremist group, has been fighting for years to take power and create an Islamic state in Somalia. It frequently carries out suicide bombings targeting public places, hotels and government offices despite being pushed out of Mogadishu. It mostly operates from rural areas in the country's south. African Union peacekeepers stationed in Mogadishu and elsewhere in the country have helped Somali forces to keep al-Shabab fighters at bay. The extremist group has also carried out many deadly attacks in neighboring Kenya in retaliation over the country's deployment in 2011 of peacekeepers in Somalia. Story continues The U.S. military has carried out a number of deadly airstrikes in recent months against al-Shabab. ___ Associated Press writer Rodney Muhumuza in Kampala, Uganda, contributed to this report. By Andy Sullivan (Reuters) - U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller and other federal prosecutors have been investigating whether President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign conspired with Russia and whether the president unlawfully tried to obstruct the inquiry. Mueller has handed in the keenly awaited report on his probe, the Justice Department said on Friday. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded Russia interfered in the presidential election with a campaign of hacking and propaganda to sow discord in the United States and damage the Republican Trump's Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. Russia denies it. Trump has denied collusion and obstruction of justice. Here are some key figures in the investigation: DONALD TRUMP JR. Trump's eldest son set up a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower in New York with a Kremlin-linked lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, and other Russians who had offered damaging information on Clinton. In an email after being promised the Clinton "dirt," Trump Jr. wrote "I love it." When news of the meeting broke in July 2017, Trump Jr. issued a statement saying the meeting was set up to discuss adoption policy, not politics, before later admitting he had been expecting intelligence on Clinton. President Trump's advisers eventually said the president dictated the misleading statement put out in his son's name, after initially denying his involvement. JARED KUSHNER Trump's son-in-law has served as a senior adviser to him as both candidate and president. Kushner initially did not list any Russian contacts on his application for a White House security clearance, but subsequently revised those forms to reveal he had participated in the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting and discussed setting up a secure communications line at the Russian Embassy in Washington after Trump won the November 2016 election with Sergei Kislyak, then-Russian ambassador to the United States. JEFF SESSIONS Sessions, a longtime U.S. senator from Alabama, served as a campaign adviser and then Trump's first attorney general. During his Senate confirmation hearings he said he did not meet with Russian officials during the campaign, but later admitted he had met at least twice with Kislyak. Under pressure, he recused himself from oversight of the Russia investigation, which at the time was led by the FBI and later by Mueller. The recusal angered Trump, who eventually fired Sessions last November. MICHAEL FLYNN A retired U.S. Army lieutenant general, Flynn was a top campaign adviser and served as Trump's first national security adviser until he was fired after only weeks on the job for lying about his conversations with Kislyak in December 2017, after Trump won the election but before he took office. Flynn discussed U.S. sanctions with Russia and asked the ambassador for help with a U.N. vote, according to court filings. Flynn pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI and has been cooperating with investigators. Before he joined Trump's campaign, Flynn sat next to Russian President Vladimir Putin at a Moscow dinner in December 2015 celebrating RT, a pro-Kremlin Russian-owned English language media channel. PAUL MANAFORT Manafort served on Trump's campaign from March to August 2016, including three months as chairman, ensuring Trump secured the Republican presidential nomination during the party's convention in Cleveland. During that time, the Republican Party softened its support for arming U.S. allies in Ukraine. He participated in the Trump Tower meeting with Russians who offered damaging information on Clinton. Manafort's lawyers said that after the convention he shared election polling data and discussed a way to end the Ukraine conflict with Russian Konstantin Kilimnik, a former business associate who Mueller's team has called an agent of the Kremlin. Manafort was sentenced to 7-1/2 years in prison on March 13 in two cases prosecuted by Mueller. He was found guilty in Virginia of bank and tax fraud related to millions of dollars he earned as a political consultant for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine. He pleaded guilty in Washington to two conspiracy charges. A judge ruled on Feb. 13 that Manafort violated his plea agreement with prosecutors by repeatedly lying to Mueller's team. Less than an hour following his sentencing, the former campaign chairman was charged with residential mortgage fraud and other felonies in New York. State lawmakers moved to ensure Manafort can be prosecuted even if he receives a presidential pardon. nL1N21014A] RICK GATES Manafort's longtime lobbying associate served as deputy campaign chairman and worked on the transition after Trump was elected. Gates pleaded guilty to lying to investigators and was a star witness in Manafort's 2018 trial, testifying that he helped his boss file false tax returns and hide millions of dollars offshore. Gates has continued to cooperate with the investigation, according to court filings. MICHAEL COHEN Trump's former longtime personal attorney once boasted that he would take a bullet for his boss, but has since turned on him. In a series of guilty pleas, Cohen said he worked on a deal to build a Trump tower in Moscow for nearly a year while Trump was running for president, and acted at Trump's direction to break campaign-finance laws by arranging "hush money" payments to women who claim to have had sexual relationships with Trump. Cohen's turn against Trump was on dramatic display in his congressional testimony on Feb. 27, accusing the president of being a "racist," "conman" and "cheat." Cohen is due to begin serving a three-year prison sentence on May. 6. ROGER STONE Stone is a self-proclaimed political "dirty trickster" who has known Trump for about four decades. Stone is accused of telling members of Trump's presidential campaign that he knew in advance of plans by the WikiLeaks website to release damaging emails about Clinton. Cohen has said he heard Stone tell Trump on the telephone in July 2016 about a forthcoming release by WikiLeaks of the stolen emails. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded the emails were stolen by Russians. They sowed division among Democratic voters by showing that Democratic Party officials had favored Clinton over insurgent candidate Bernie Sanders. Stone pleaded not guilty in January to charges brought by Mueller. INTERNET RESEARCH AGENCY Muller's team has said this St. Petersburg-based organization tried to influence the 2016 U.S. presidential election through fake social-media accounts, aiming to spread distrust about the candidates and the American political system. The organization employed hundreds of people, according to an indictment. RUDY GIULIANI The former New York mayor and 2008 Republican presidential candidate has offered a freewheeling defense of the president in the news media since signing on as Trump's personal lawyer in April 2018. Giuliani has occasionally misstated facts, drawing rebukes from Trump or other members of his administration. MARIA BUTINA This Russian woman, a former graduate student at American University in Washington, has admitted to trying to infiltrate the influential National Rifle Association lobby group and make inroads with conservative activists and Republicans as an agent for Moscow in a criminal case in parallel with the Mueller investigation. Butina pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge in December 2018 and has agreed to cooperate with U.S. investigators. JAMES COMEY As FBI director, Comey oversaw the initial stages of the Russia investigation until Trump fired him in May 2017. The White House initially said Comey was fired because he had mishandled a 2016 investigation into Clinton's emails, but shortly thereafter Trump told NBC that he had "this Russia thing" on his mind in the dismissal. Comey has said that Trump pressured him to end the investigation of Flynn. CARTER PAGE The Trump foreign-policy adviser met with Russian officials in Moscow in July 2016, and has said he reported back to Sessions and other senior campaign officials after the trip. His contacts attracted suspicion from the FBI, which said in surveillance applications that it believed Page "has been collaborating and conspiring with the Russian Government" and had established relationships with Russian intelligence officers. Page, who has not been charged, has said he did nothing wrong. (Compiled by Andy Sullivan; Editing by Will Dunham and Jonathan Oatis) By Andy Sullivan (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller and other U.S. prosecutors have been investigating whether President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign conspired with Russia. Trump and Moscow have denied any collusion. Mueller handed in the keenly awaited report on his probe, the Justice Department said on Friday. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded Russia interfered in the presidential election with a campaign of hacking and propaganda to sow discord in the United States and damage the Republican Trump's Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton. Russia denies it. Here are some key interactions between Trump advisors and Russian figures that have been unearthed by Mueller's probe and investigations in Congress. TRUMP TOWER MEETING Several top Trump aides, including campaign chairman Paul Manafort, son-in-law Jared Kushner and son Donald Trump Jr., met in June 2016 at Trump Tower in New York with a Russian lawyer who had offered damaging information about Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. U.S. prosecutors said the lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, was an agent for the Kremlin. The meeting was arranged by Rob Goldstone, a British music publicist. Participants in the meeting said nothing improper occurred and that Veselnitskaya discussed U.S. sanctions on Russia and adoption policy, not election issues. The president said he did not know about the meeting beforehand. EFFORTS TO BUILD A SKYSCRAPER IN MOSCOW Trump's former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, said he pursued a deal to build a Trump-branded skyscraper in Moscow until June 2016, after Trump had clinched the Republican presidential nomination. Cohen said in a guilty plea that he spoke with an assistant to Russian President Vladimir Putin's press secretary in January of that year and briefed Trump on the project more than three times. Trump's lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, said the Moscow skyscraper talks continued until Trump won the November 2016 election but later said he misspoke. Trump, who repeatedly said during the campaign that he had no contacts with Russia, said after Cohen's guilty plea in November 2018 there was nothing wrong with pursuing the deal. EFFORTS TO SET UP A MEETING WITH RUSSIAN LEADERS Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos worked between March 2016 and August 2016 to set up a meeting with Russian leadership, according to prosecutors. They said a London-based professor with ties to the Russian government told him in April 2016 that Moscow had compromising information on Clinton. Papadopoulos served 14 days in prison after pleading guilty to lying to the FBI about those efforts. MANAFORT OFFERS CAMPAIGN INSIGHTS Manafort shared election campaign polling data in August 2016 with Konstantin Kilimnik, a former business partner who Mueller has described as having ties to Russian intelligence, according to a court filing inadvertently made public by Manafort's lawyers. The two also discussed a plan to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, a major Kremlin foreign policy goal as it seeks relief from U.S. economic sanctions, according to court filings. Manafort, a veteran Republican political consultant who earned million of dollars working for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine, also offered private briefings about the campaign to Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska, who is close to Putin, in an effort to collect past debts, according to the Washington Post. ROGER STONE AND WIKILEAKS Roger Stone, a veteran Republican political consultant who has worked on and off with Trump for decades, shared with Trump campaign officials advance knowledge he had of a plan by the WikiLeaks website to release emails stolen from the Clinton campaign by Russians, prosecutors said. The charging document mentions that a senior Trump campaign official "was directed to contact Stone about any additional releases and what other damaging information" WikiLeaks had about the Clinton campaign, raising the possibility Trump himself made the request. Stone pleaded not guilty to lying to Congress and witness tampering. MEETINGS WITH RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR SERGEI KISLYAK Several Trump advisers met with Russia's ambassador to the United States, Sergei Kislyak, before Trump became president. They included: Michael Flynn, who served as Trump's first White House national security advisor. Flynn has pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about his communications with Kislyak in December 2017, after Trump won the election but before he took office. During those calls, according to the indictment, Flynn discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia and asked Kislyak to help delay a U.N. vote seen as damaging to Israel, a move that ran counter to the policies of then-President Barack Obama, a Democrat. Jeff Sessions, a Republican U.S. senator serving as a campaign adviser who Trump later named attorney general, said he met with Kislyak at least twice in 2016 after initially telling Congress he was unaware of any communications between the campaign and Russia. As attorney general, Sessions recused himself from oversight of the Russia investigation, drawing the ire of Trump. The recusal by Sessions left Rod Rosenstein, the No. 2 Justice Department official, with oversight over the probe, which at the time was headed by the FBI. After Trump fired FBI Director James Comey in May 2017, Rosenstein appointed Mueller as special counsel to take over the probe. Kushner said he asked Kislyak if he could set up a secure communications channel at the Russian Embassy after Trump won the election. Kushner also said he met with Sergei Gorkov, the head of Russian state-owned bank, Vnesheconombank, during that period at Kislyak's insistence. Vnesheconombank has been subject to U.S. economic sanctions since mid-2014. (Compiled by Andy Sullivan; Editing by Will Dunham) By Juliet Nalwooga. The Speaker of Parliament, Rebecca Kadaga has been airlifted to the Kenyan capital, Nairobi for further specialized attention at Aga Khan Hospital. The Speakers Principal Assistant Press Secretary, Mr.Sam Obbo says the decision to transfer Rt. Hon Kadaga from Nakasero Hospital Kampala to Aga Khan Hospital in the Kenyan capital Nairobi was based on the advice of doctors in Kampala. Parliament in a statement issued on Thursday noted that the Speaker was admitted in critical condition at Nakasero hospital immediately after returning from the United States where she had been participating in the 63rd session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations headquarters. Related Stories. Parliament confirms Kadagas ailment (Refiles to fix amount in paragraph 22 to $200,000) By Peter Szekely NEW YORK, March 23 (Reuters) - Immigrant faces captured in life-sized portraits by artist Betsy Ashton look the viewer straight in the eye, as if eager to tell their stories of leaving home to brave new struggles in a strange land. Ashton said she created the oil paintings to counter what she calls a false political narrative spun by the Trump administration. "I simply decided it was time to balance the story, time to try to counter this inflammatory rage that's being whipped up against a group of people that don't deserve it," Ashton said. Her "Portraits of Immigrants" are on display through Easter at Manhattan's Riverside Church, about 10 miles up the Hudson River from Ellis Island, where 12 million newcomers landed from 1892 to 1954. The Statue of Liberty towers over the island, asking the world in a plaque to "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." The portraits include teachers, entrepreneurs, a nurse, housekeeper, actor, politician and barista from Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe. They are newcomers and long-timers. Some are U.S. citizens, others have proper documents, one does not. STRUGGLING TO FIT IN TO A NEW CULTURE Their stories, which Ashton, a former CBS News correspondent, wrote and posted next to each portrait, tell of struggling to fit in to a new culture and learning a new language for the promise of a better life. "The collective portrayal of the immigrant experience is what's compelling, not just one individual story," said Ron Kim, who came to New York from South Korea when he was 6. He is pictured in his New York State Assembly office, where he represents part of Queens, one of the city's five boroughs. Another immigrant immortalized in oil paint is Abdul Saboor, who taught U.S. troops the culture of his native Afghanistan before coming to the United States nearly five years ago. Story continues For Saboor, now a U.S. citizen working for the upstate New York nonprofit that helped resettle him, Ashton's exhibit is an opportunity for Americans "to imagine themselves in my skin." Both Kim and Saboor said they are keenly aware of - and disturbed by - the political hot potato that immigration has become since Donald Trump became president. As a candidate in 2016, Trump stirred anti-immigrant fervor by accusing Mexico of sending drug dealers, gangs and rapists into the country, as his supporters loudly urged him to "build that wall" along the southern U.S. border. As president, Trump has not only maintained a rhetorical drum beat against illegal immigrants, but also sought to narrow the pathways for legal immigration and travel. The White House did not respond to a request for comment on this story. SERMON ABOUT THE GOOD SAMARITAN Ashton says hearing Trump during the campaign shortly after a Sunday sermon about the Good Samaritan inspired her to put brush to canvas to show the true stories of American newcomers. In her neighborhood in Queens, where nearly half the population is foreign born, the English-Scottish-Welsh-German artist whose ancestors on her father's side arrived in the country about 300 years ago, had no trouble finding immigrants. She started with "Eddie" Rigo, who runs the espresso bar she visits each morning. He fled crime-ridden Sao Paulo where his Italian family had been in the pizza business. Then came Beata Szakowicz Kombel, a nurse Ashton knows from doctor visits. She left Poland's sagging economy in the early 1990s. The collection grew to 16, and Ashton is seeking two more immigrants from troubled countries, preferably Venezuela and Syria, to complete the set. Winning over her subjects often took salesmanship. "I didn't want to be in the spotlight," said Porez Luxama, who left Haiti in the 1990s and teaches math in a New York City middle school. "But she was very convincing." Ashton, whose works include a portrait on display in the U.S. embassy in London, has spent two years on the project, which cost her more than $200,000 in lost income. She is seeking other venues for her exhibit after it leaves Riverside Church. The subjects include "Angel" (not her real name), who came over on a tourist visa 20 years ago; Maria Solome, a Guatemalan housekeeper who sneaked across the Rio Grande but recently secured a green card; and John Lam who came from Hong Kong poor and now heads the Lam Group real estate investment conglomerate. Despite their assorted origins, races and religions, Ashton said immigrants share a determination to overcome the problems that drove them from their homes. "It's the grit, the guts and the resilience that comes with survival, sacrifice and risk-taking," she said. "Those are the same qualities that we celebrate in immigrants from generations past." (Reporting by Peter Szekely; Editing by Richard Chang) Special Counsel Robert Muellers probe into Russian collusion in the 2016 election has crossed the finish line after more than two years. But for Congress, the fight is just beginning. Attorney General William Barr wrote a letter which was hand-delivered to the top officials on the judiciary committees in Congress Friday announcing that Mueller had submitted his report. Under current regulations, Barr is only required to relay a summary of the reports contents to Congress more specifically to the chairman and ranking members of the Judiciary committees in the Senate and the House of Representatives. Barr noted in the letter, addressed to those members, that he may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. Read More: Full Text of the Letter Barr Sent to Congress Although Barr stressed in his letter that he remains committed to as much transparency as possible, there is no requirement that he give Congress the full report. Congressional Democrats have made clear, however, that they expect nothing less than that. They also want access to any classified portions, so they can determine if they were properly done. Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any sneak preview of Special Counsel Muellers findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement after Barrs letter was circulated. Democrats have been saying for months that they will fight tooth and nail to get the report publicized. Were going do everything in our legal and legislative powers to compel them to release the documents said one House Democratic leadership aide. U.S. Attorney General William Barr departs his home on March 22, 2019, in McLean, Virginia, the same day he submitted a letter to Congress confirming he received Robert Mueller's report. First though, they are are hoping that they dont have to do that. The three months since the Democrats regained the majority in the House of Representatives have dovetailed with impending rumors that Mueller was nearing the end of the probe. They have used this newfound power to try to force Barr to voluntarily comply with their requests. On Feb. 22, six Democratic committee chairs with the broadest oversight powers wrote a letter to Barr requesting they receive the report without delay and to the maximum extent permitted by law. Story continues Shortly after Fridays announcement the chairs released a joint statement reiterating these sentiments. It is long-standing policy in the Department of Justice that a sitting President cannot be indicted. Consequently, punitive measures for any possible crimes Trump committed that would be laid out in the report would fall to Congress. Signed by Oversight Chair Elijah Cummings, Foreign Affairs Chair Eliot Engel, Judiciary Chair Jerrold Nadler, Ways and Means Chair Richard Neal, Intelligence Chair Adam Schiff, and Financial Services Chair Maxine Waters, the letter uses this argument to highlight why it is so crucial Barr meet their demands. Read More: Can a Sitting President Be Indicted? Congress could be the only institution currently situated to act on evidence of the Presidents misconduct. To maintain that a sitting president cannot be indicted, and then to withhold evidence of wrongdoing from Congress because the President will not be charged, is to convert Department policy into the means for a cover-up, the chairs wrote. Less than three weeks later, the House unanimously passed a resolution calling for similar measures to the one laid out in the letter. While the resolution was non-binding, Democrats believe the fact that all but four Republicans voted for it will provide further ammunition to their argument to publicly release the report. (4 Republicans voted present). Polling is also in favor of this argument. A CNN poll from February found that nine in 10 Americans wanted the report to be public knowledge. Even President Trump, who continues to deride the probe as a witch hunt conceded something similar earlier this week Of course, many Congressional Democrats have expressed skepticism this public pressure will persuade Barr to give them everything they want. After watching Barrs testimony during his confirmation hearing, I do not believe AG Barr intends to release the Mueller report in full to Congress, said Rep Ted Lieu, a member of the judiciary committee. There are several options if Democrats do not obtain the full report, although the full extent is not yet clear. Nadler, who chairs the judiciary committee, has told TIME that if it is not made public he will issue a subpoena it, and possibly even bring in Mueller to testify before the committee. But for now, they are waiting on further information from Barr. Like the rest of the public, even some of the most powerful lawmakers in American are currently in a holding pattern. Jenna Coleman attending the Evening Standard Theatre Awards 2018 at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in Covent Garden, London. Matt Crossick/ EMPICS Entertainment. Victoria fans will be glued to their TVs this Sunday night, as the third series of Daisy Goodwins royal drama starts on ITV. But the shows star, Jenna Coleman, is already keeping busy with her next project, a production of Arthur Millers All My Sons, at Londons Old Vic Theatre. The Doctor Who actress joins Hollywood stars Bill Pullman and Sally Field, as well as Merlin actor Colin Morgan in the revival, which is set to open this April. The theatre released behind-the-scenes snaps of the cast having fun in rehearsal this week. Coleman is pictured laughing and smiling with both Field and Morgan on the shots. But that doesnt mean that shes forgotten her right royal role already, quite the contrary. Coleman and her co-star (and boyfriend) Tom Hughes, took to the Lorraine couch this week to talk about what lies ahead for the royal couple, and the discord that surfaces in their marriage in series 3. Its a turbulent time for both England and the couples marriage as they mature together. Coleman has spoken out about how shes overjoyed that she has been allowed to grow up and older as the queen. Read more: Jenna Coleman says its a joy to age alongside her Queen Victoria character Coleman actually started her career on stage, as part of the In Yer Space theatre company in Blackpool, before being cast as Jasmine Thomas in Emmerdale. Her role as Clara Oswald in Doctor Who made her internationally known. The diminutive actress has opened up about splitting her time between TV and the stage in the latest issue of Harpers Bazaar, which she graces the cover of this month. Victoria series 3 starts on ITV at 8pm this Sunday. Mogadishu (AFP) - An attack involving gunmen and bomb blasts on a complex housing government ministries in Somalia's capital killed at least 11 people on Saturday, including the deputy labour minister, officials said. Claimed by the Al-Shabaab Islamist group, the assault was a sign of the insurgency's continued ability to strike at the heart of Somalia's government, despite years of foreign military support for Mogadishu. The fighting began with two blasts at the gates of the complex housing the labour and works ministries. Police say at least four gunmen then stormed the buildings, leading to a shootout as officers rushed to confront the attackers. "The death toll reached eleven, three of them women, and the number of wounded is 15," said Abdukadir Abdirahman Adan, director of Mogadishu's Aamin ambulance service. Senator Ilyas Ali Hassan confirmed that Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, the deputy minister for labour and social affairs, was also killed. "I cannot elaborate on how he died but I can confirm that he was killed inside the ministry building," Hassan said. Police official Ibrahim Mohamed said all the gunmen were killed. "There were some other casualties including members of the police," he said, without elaborating. - Siege attacks - Attacks that combine bombings with gunmen have become a speciality of the Al-Qaeda linked group, which is running an armed insurrection against what it sees as heretic and foreign influence in Somalia. The group emerged from Islamic Courts that once controlled central and southern Somalia and are variously estimated to number between 5,000 and 9,000 men. In 2010 the Shabaab declared their allegiance to Al-Qaeda. The following year, the group were chased out of Mogadishu by the 22,000-strong African Union peace-enforcement mission, AMISOM. They have since lost many of their strongholds but retain control of large rural swathes of the country and continue to wage a guerrilla war, frequently hitting Mogadishu. Story continues In October 2017 a truck bombing in a busy neighbourhood of the capital killed over 500 people, the deadliest attack in Somalia to date. - Targeting Kenya - Among Al-Shabaab's adversaries is the US military, which has killed over 800 people in airstrikes targeting the insurgents over the last two years. This week Amnesty International released a report challening the US's claim that the airtrikes only killed "terrorists." Amnesty researchers say at least 14 civilians were killed in US bombings. The US military denied the report. The have also carried out a string of attacks in Kenya since 2011. The deadliest of these took place on April 2, 2015 when 148 people were killed at Garissa University in northeastern Kenya. In 2013, a raid on Nairobi's Westgate shopping mall left 67 dead in a siege that unfolded over four days. And in January this year, 14 people were killed in a -claimed attack on a luxury hotel complex in Nairobi. A Texas flight attendant who was enrolled in the government's program for "Dreamers" flew to Mexico for work and was stopped by immigration authorities who forced her to spend more than a month in detention, her attorney said. Selene Saavedra Roman, 28, who immigrated illegally to the U.S. as a child, was released Friday from a detention center in Conroe, Texas, according to a statement from Immigration and Customs Enforcement. "Being released is an indescribable feeling," she said through a spokesman. "I cried and hugged my husband and never wanted to let go. I am thankful and grateful for the amazing people that came to fight for me, and it fills my heart. Thank you to everyone that has supported. I am just so happy to have my freedom back." Originally from Peru and married to an American citizen, she raised concerns with Mesa Airlines about her immigration status after being assigned to an international flight, attorney Belinda Arroyo said. The airline assured her she would be fine, but she was stopped by U.S. authorities on Feb. 12, when she returned to Houston, and was sent to detention, where she remained for more than five weeks, Arroyo said. Soon after her lawyer, her husband, the airline and a flight attendants' group publicly demanded her release, Saavedra Roman called to tell her husband she was getting out. "She was crying and she said, 'Please come get me,'" her husband, David Watkins, told reporters. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said the agency was looking into her status. Earlier, the agency said Saavedra Roman did not have a valid document to enter the country and was being detained while going through immigration court proceedings. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services the agency that oversees the program known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA declined to discuss the case. But the agency says on its website that participants who travel outside the country without a special document allowing them to do so are no longer covered by the program. Story continues The agency no longer issues the document to the program's enrollees, according to the website. People enrolled in the program are commonly referred to as "Dreamers," based on never-passed proposals in Congress called the DREAM Act. The Trump administration sought to end the Obama-era program but was blocked by litigation. New applications have been halted, but renewals continue for hundreds of thousands of immigrants already enrolled. In a joint statement with the Association of Flight Attendants, Mesa Airlines chief executive Jonathan Ornstein apologized to Saavedra Roman and asked U.S. authorities to release her, arguing that it was unfair to continually detain someone "over something that is nothing more than an administrative error and a misunderstanding." "She should have never been advised that she could travel," Arroyo said. "It was a big mistake." Saavedra Roman who is scheduled to appear before an immigration judge in April attended Texas A&M University, where she met her husband. Watkins said he was not initially worried about her assignment because they already obtained approval from Citizenship and Immigration Services to apply for her green card as the wife of an American citizen. She has no criminal record and has long paid her taxes, he said, and she checked with her employer before the trip. Then she was detained. He could visit her only once a week and could only see her through thick glass. She sounded hopeless, he said. "I told her, 'Even if you get deported to Peru, I'll just go with you,'" he said to reporters. "Regardless of whatever happens in the future, I am not giving up. I am going to keep fighting." In a statement, the union representing Saavedra Roman and her colleagues said the event "highlights the urgency of commonsense immigration reform and resolution for America's children who are part of DACA." ___ Associated Press Writer Terry Wallace contributed to this report. Justice With Judge Jeanine, the Saturday-night opinion show led by Jeanine Pirro, will be off the Fox News schedule for a second week in the wake of remarks she made about a Muslim congresswoman. The networks online schedule shows that it will run another repeat of the documentary series Scandalous in its place Saturday night at 9 p.m. Related stories Former DNC Chair Donna Brazile Joins Fox News as Contributor Fox News' 'Judge Jeanine' Won't Air This Saturday Fox News Taps Laura Ingraham, Bret Baier in New Pitch to Madison Ave. Fox News declined to comment and has in recent days said it will not elaborate on what it has called scheduling changes. There has been recent speculation that Pirro, a fierce supporter of President Donald Trump, could return to the schedule Saturday, March 30. The president has taken to Twitter to express his support for Pirros show. During her March 9th broadcast, the former New York prosecutor, suggested Minnesota Democrat Ihan Omar, a U.S. representative, did not respect the law set down by the Constitution of the United States. Is her adherence to this Islamic doctrine indicative of her adherence to Sharia law, which is antithetical to the U.S. Constitution? Pirro asked. Oman is a Muslim. She has not appeared on Fox News since, and has not posted on Twitter since March 10. A handful of advertisers have in recent days expressed their unease with her comments. Personal-finance marketer NerdWallet, pharmaceutical advertiser Novo Nordis and online marketplace Letgo have indicated in press statements they will all stop running ads in Pirros program. Fox News issued a statement after Pirros last broadcast, rebuking her words. We strongly condemn Jeanine Pirros comments about Rep. Ilhan Omar, the network said in a statement. They do not reflect those of the network and we have addressed the matter with her directly. Fox News made a similar statement in November when Pirro and fellow Fox News host Sean Hannity, two favorites of President Donald Trump, appeared at a campaign rally Trump held in Missouri. Story continues Rep. Omar responded to the controversy the next day Thank you, @FoxNews. No ones commitment to our constitution should be questioned because of their faith or country of birth, she said via Twitter. Pirros absence from the Fox News schedule takes place as the network is once again under scrutiny from advocacy organizations, who in recent days have called for advertisers to pull support from weekday primetime host Tucker Carlson. Liberal groups including Media Matters have scrutinized a number of prominent Fox News hosts in recent months, including Carlson and Laura Ingraham. Several primetime sponsors have moved commercials to other parts of Fox News schedule, and some of the networks primetime broadcasts often feature more direct-response ads and show promos from 21st Century Fox-owned properties than national commercials from mainstream advertisers. Pirro sought to tamp down reaction to her comments with her own statement Ive seen a lot of comments about my opening statement from Saturday nights show and I did not call Rep. Omar un-American, she said. My intention was to ask a question and start a debate, but of course because one is Muslim does not mean you dont support the Constitution. I invite Rep. Omar to come on my show any time to discuss all of the important issues facing America today. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. BERLIN (Reuters) - Germany's credibility with its NATO partners is at stake unless lawmakers commit to increase military spending, German conservative leader Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer said on Friday, as divisions widen within Chancellor Angela Merkel's coalition. Merkel's cabinet approved a budget plan on Wednesday that would boost defense spending to 45.1 billion euros, or 1.37 percent of gross domestic product, in 2020, but allow that percentage to drop in subsequent years. The plan, which must be finalised by parliament, drew sharp criticism this week from U.S. Ambassador Richard Grenell, who questioned Germany's commitment to meeting the target for NATO members to spend 2 percent of GDP on the military. The defense spending row has added to tensions within a coalition government already at odds over tax rates, social spending and an embargo on arms exports to Saudi Arabia. Kramp-Karrenbauer told Der Spiegel magazine that Germany needed to live up to its commitments and called on lawmakers to "correct" the four-year budget plan prepared by Finance Minister Olaf Scholz, a Social Democrat. Merkel said on Thursday that Germany will meet an undertaking to NATO allies to spend 1.5 percent of economic output on defense by 2024. A separate push by Scholz's Social Democrats, junior partners in Merkel's coalition, to extend an embargo on arms shipments to Saudi Arabia by six months has meanwhile strained ties with Britain. The embargo is holding up London's efforts to finalize a 10 billion pound sale of Eurofighter combat jets to Riyadh. German components account for about a third of the jet's content. France has also warned it will not proceed with several large Franco-German weapons development programs unless Germany agrees to a binding accord that would allow the countries to block each other's future exports only when "direct interests or national security are compromised". "If you want a European security and defense policy, then you have to agree on European rules -- and they will not be as strict as the German ones," Kramp-Karrenbauer told Der Spiegel. Matthias Wachter, defense expert at the BDI Federation of German Industry, said extending the Saudi arms embargo created uncertainty for German companies, who face a growing risk of contractual penalties for not shipping arms ordered by Riyadh. "Companies have to evaluate legal options, since they might be liable to their shareholders by law," he said on Twitter. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal; Editing by Catherine Evans) By Peter Szekely NEW YORK (Reuters) - Immigrant faces captured in life-sized portraits by artist Betsy Ashton look the viewer straight in the eye, as if eager to tell their stories of leaving home to brave new struggles in a strange land. Ashton said she created the oil paintings to counter what she calls a false political narrative spun by the Trump administration. "I simply decided it was time to balance the story, time to try to counter this inflammatory rage that's being whipped up against a group of people that don't deserve it," Ashton said. Her "Portraits of Immigrants" are on display through Easter at Manhattan's Riverside Church, about 10 miles up the Hudson River from Ellis Island, where 12 million newcomers landed from 1892 to 1954. The Statue of Liberty towers over the island, asking the world in a plaque to "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." The portraits include teachers, entrepreneurs, a nurse, housekeeper, actor, politician and barista from Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe. They are newcomers and long-timers. Some are U.S. citizens, others have proper documents, one does not. STRUGGLING TO FIT IN TO A NEW CULTURE Their stories, which Ashton, a former CBS News correspondent, wrote and posted next to each portrait, tell of struggling to fit in to a new culture and learning a new language for the promise of a better life. "The collective portrayal of the immigrant experience is what's compelling, not just one individual story," said Ron Kim, who came to New York from South Korea when he was 6. He is pictured in his New York State Assembly office, where he represents part of Queens, one of the city's five boroughs. Another immigrant immortalized in oil paint is Abdul Saboor, who taught U.S. troops the culture of his native Afghanistan before coming to the United States nearly five years ago. Story continues For Saboor, now a U.S. citizen working for the upstate New York nonprofit that helped resettle him, Ashton's exhibit is an opportunity for Americans "to imagine themselves in my skin." Both Kim and Saboor said they are keenly aware of - and disturbed by - the political hot potato that immigration has become since Donald Trump became president. As a candidate in 2016, Trump stirred anti-immigrant fervor by accusing Mexico of sending drug dealers, gangs and rapists into the country, as his supporters loudly urged him to "build that wall" along the southern U.S. border. As president, Trump has not only maintained a rhetorical drum beat against illegal immigrants, but also sought to narrow the pathways for legal immigration and travel. The White House did not respond to a request for comment on this story. SERMON ABOUT THE GOOD SAMARITAN Ashton says hearing Trump during the campaign shortly after a Sunday sermon about the Good Samaritan inspired her to put brush to canvas to show the true stories of American newcomers. In her neighborhood in Queens, where nearly half the population is foreign born, the English-Scottish-Welsh-German artist whose ancestors on her father's side arrived in the country about 300 years ago, had no trouble finding immigrants. She started with "Eddie" Rigo, who runs the espresso bar she visits each morning. He fled crime-ridden Sao Paulo where his Italian family had been in the pizza business. Then came Beata Szakowicz Kombel, a nurse Ashton knows from doctor visits. She left Poland's sagging economy in the early 1990s. The collection grew to 16, and Ashton is seeking two more immigrants from troubled countries, preferably Venezuela and Syria, to complete the set. Winning over her subjects often took salesmanship. "I didn't want to be in the spotlight," said Porez Luxama, who left Haiti in the 1990s and teaches math in a New York City middle school. "But she was very convincing." Ashton, whose works include a portrait on display in the U.S. embassy in London, has spent two years on the project, which cost her more than $200,000 in lost income. She is seeking other venues for her exhibit after it leaves Riverside Church. The subjects include "Angel" (not her real name), who came over on a tourist visa 20 years ago; Maria Solome, a Guatemalan housekeeper who sneaked across the Rio Grande but recently secured a green card; and John Lam who came from Hong Kong poor and now heads the Lam Group real estate investment conglomerate. Despite their assorted origins, races and religions, Ashton said immigrants share a determination to overcome the problems that drove them from their homes. "It's the grit, the guts and the resilience that comes with survival, sacrifice and risk-taking," she said. "Those are the same qualities that we celebrate in immigrants from generations past." (This story refiles to fix amount in paragraph 22 to $200,000) (Reporting by Peter Szekely; Editing by Richard Chang) * Fuel exports committed before US imposed sanctions-company * Fuel shipments meant to settle crude purchases-Reliance * Reliance reiterates it has halted diluent naphtha exports * Reliance says it has been consulting with U.S. authorities By Nidhi Verma NEW DELHI, March 23 (Reuters) - India's Reliance Industries , operator of the world's largest oil refining complex, on Friday said in a statement it was not breaching U.S. sanctions against Venezuela. The company said that its recent fuel exports to Venezuela were agreed before Washington imposed sanctions in January, and that they were meant to settle Reliance's crude oil imports from Venezuela. Reliance said it has been in "continuous communication with the US Department of State regarding its activities in Venezuela" since the imposition of sanctions. The Reliance statement came a day after Reuters reported that the conglomerate is selling fuels to Venezuela from India and Europe to sidestep sanctions that bar U.S. based companies from dealing with state-run PDVSA, according to trading sources and Refinitiv Eikon data.. "Reliance's few transportation fuel shipments to Venezuela, treated as offsets for crude oil receipts, were committed and in-transit when there were no specific restrictions to such transactions. They were all fuels refined in India," it said in a statement. Reliance had been supplying alkylate, diluent naphtha and other fuel to Venezuela through its U.S.-based subsidiary before Washington imposed the sanctions aimed at curbing the OPEC member's oil exports and ousting Socialist President Nicolas Maduro. Reliance, the Indian conglomerate controlled by billionaire businessman Mukesh Ambani, has significant exposure to the financial system of the United States, where it operates subsidiaries linked to its oil and telecom businesses, among others. Additional sanctions against Venezuela are possible in the future, as U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has not yet tried to prevent companies based outside the United States from buying Venezuelan oil. Story continues Reliance said it had been transparent with U.S. authorities and provided detailed feedback to Washington as they were formulating and adjusting policy regarding product shipments to Venezuela. "Reliance not only has complied with US sanctions laws, but also has done its best to adjust its dealings with Venezuela on a voluntary basis to reflect the ongoing changes in US policy," the statement added. Reliance reiterated that it has stopped shipments of diluent naphtha to Venezuela, and has reduced its purchases of Venezuelan crude oil to well below its contracted levels. In 2012, Reliance signed a 15-year deal to buy between 300,000 to 400,000 bpd of heavy crude from PDVSA. Ship tracking data show that Reliance's average purchases from Venezuela were less than 300,000 bpd in 2018 and in the first two months of this year. (Reporting by Nidhi Verma Editing by Martin Howell and Elaine Hardcastle) Denpasar (Indonesia) (AFP) - A Russian tourist attempting to smuggle a drugged orangutan out of Indonesia in his suitcase to bring home and keep as a pet has been arrested in Bali, police said Saturday. Andrei Zhestkov was detained in Denpasar airport late on Friday while passing through a security screening before a planned flight back to Russia. Suspicious officers stopped him and opened his luggage to find a two-year-old male orangutan sleeping inside a rattan basket. "We believe the orangutan was fed allergy pills which caused him to sleep. We found the pills inside the suitcase," Bali conservation agency official I Ketut Catur Marbawa told AFP Saturday. "(Zhestkov) seemed prepared, like he was transporting a baby," he added. The 27-year-old also packed baby formula and blankets for the orangutan, Marbawa said. Police also found two live geckos and five lizards inside the suitcase. Zhestkov told authorities that the protected species was gifted by his friend, another Russian tourist who bought the primate for $3,000 from a street market in Java. He claimed his friend, who has since left Indonesia, convinced him he could bring home the orangutan as a pet. The Russian could face up to five years in prison and $7,000 in fines for smuggling, Marbawa said. Orangutans are a critically endangered species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with only about 100,000 remaining worldwide. Plantation workers and villagers in Indonesia often consider the apes pests and sometimes attack them, while poachers capture the animals to sell as pets. A string of fatal attacks on the apes have been blamed on farmers and hunters. Four Indonesian men were arrested last year over the killing of an orangutan shot some 130 times with an air gun. Garuda Indonesia has cancelled an order of Boeing 737 Max 8s following two fatal crashes involving the model - REUTERS Indonesia's national carrier Garuda will call off a multi-billion-dollar order for 49 Boeing 737 Max 8 jets after two fatal crashes involving the plane, the company said Friday, in what is thought to be the first formal cancellation for the model. "We have sent a letter to Boeing requesting that the order be cancelled," said Garuda spokesman Ikhsan Rosan. "The reason is that Garuda passengers in Indonesia have lost trust and no longer have the confidence" in the plane, he said, adding that the airline was awaiting a response from Boeing. Garuda had already received one of the 737 Max 8 planes, part of a 50-plane order worth $4.9 billion at list prices when it was announced in 2014. Garuda is also talking to Boeing about whether or not to return the plane it has received, the spokesman told AFP. The carrier had so far paid Boeing about $26 million, while Garuda's chief told Indonesian media outlet Detik that it would consider switching to a new version of the single-aisle jet. "In principle, it's not that we want to replace Boeing, but maybe we will replace [these planes] with another model," Garuda Indonesia director I Gusti Ngurah Askhara Danadiputra told Detik. This month, Indonesia's Lion Air said it was postponing taking delivery of four new Boeing 737 Max 8 jets after the Ethiopian Airlines crash that killed 157 people. That came after a Lion Air jet of the same model crashed in Indonesia in October, killing all 189 people on board. Baghdad (AFP) - Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi made a formal request to parliament on Saturday to fire the governor of Niniveh province where 100 people were killed in a ferry capsize. Most of those killed in Thursday's sinking on the Tigris River were women and children headed out of Iraq's second city Mosul for a Mother's Day picnic on the Kurds' Nowruz New Year holiday. In a letter to the speaker of parliament, Abdel Mahdi said there was clear evidence of "negligence and concrete failings" that merited a vote on dismissing governor Nawfel Akoub. "An ongoing investigation has found evidence of the misuse of public funds and the fraudulent abuse of his office," the prime minister alleged. Akoub has already been subjected to the anger of victims' relatives and their supporters over alleged corruption and cronyism. When he visited the scene of the tragedy on Friday stones were throw at his convoy by protesters demonstrating against perceived corruption and neglect. There is widespread anger in Mosul at the slow pace of reconstruction since the city's recapture from the Islamic State group in 2017 by Iraqi troops backed by a US-led coalition. The city still bears the scars of three years of iron-fisted rule by the jihadists who made it their "caliphate's" de facto capital. Survivors of Thursday's disaster were treated in hospitals heavily damaged by the months-long military campaign against IS. Jared Kushner uses WhatsApp - AP Jared Kushnerused WhatsApp to communicate with foreign leaders, Democrats have claimed. Using the encrypted messaging service for government duties could violate a law banning White House officials from employing non-official electronic messaging accounts. Elijah Cummings, Democrat chairman of the House oversight committee, asked the White House to provide information on whether Mr Kushner, a senior adviser to the president, had used WhatsApp to communicate sensitive or classified details. Mr Cummings suggestions were based on comments made to the committee by Abbe Lowell, Mr Kushner's lawyer. However, Mr Lowell later said the committee chairman's characterisation of what he said was "not completely accurate". Mr Lowell denied saying that Mr Kushner had been communicating with foreign "leaders" or "officials". He said Mr Kushner had many friends abroad and that he only used the messaging service to talk to "some people". Mr Cummings also suggested that Ivanka Trump - the president's daughter and Mr Kushner's wife - had continued to use a personal email account while a White House adviser, which would violate the Presidential Records Act. But Mr Lowell denied having told the committee that the president's daughter was doing that. He indicated that she "always forwards official business to her White House account". Donald Trump said he knew nothing about Mr Kushner's use of WhatsApp. He said: "I know nothing about it. I've never heard that, I've never heard about it." In the 2016 presidential campaign Mr Trump railed against Hillary Clinton, his Democrat opponent, over her use of a private email server while she was serving as secretary of state. Mr Kushner's communications, particularly with foreign leaders, have been under scrutiny and officials have previously raised questions over whether he should be given a top-secret security clearance. By Alastair Macdonald BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Europeans don't want Britons to vote in May's EU parliamentary election, the lead candidate for the center-right said on Friday, in part because Nigel Farage and other British euroskeptics would disrupt the Union. Speaking to Reuters after EU leaders agreed with Prime Minister Theresa May that Britain would elect its own members to a new European Parliament if it has not left before the May 23-26 vote, Manfred Weber of the European People's Party (EPP) said the summit had provided needed clarity on Brexit. Leaders hardened their insistence that Britain should be out of the European Union before the election, so as to avoid casting doubt on the EU legislature's legitimacy. Weber, who leads the EPP in the chamber and is campaigning to succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as EU chief executive, said he was concerned, however, that if Britain took up the leaders' offer to rethink its Brexit plan, stay until next year and send its own MEPs to the EU parliament, that would spell trouble. "A possible participation of Great Britain in the EU elections can lead to a big success for the anti-elite parties in Great Britain. So that is my worry," the German lawmaker said. "When Nigel Farage is back with a lot of MEPs in the EU parliament, that will create big problems for all of us." As leader of the UK Independence Party, Farage was a major voice in the campaign for the 2016 referendum that saw Britons vote 52-48 percent to leave. With Brexit still in doubt, he has said he will lead a new party to press for it, and would seek re-election to the European Parliament if Britons end up voting. Farage and Weber have often clashed verbally on the floor of the chamber in Strasbourg. The EPP leader denied, however, that his party was particularly opposed to Britain returning MEPs because it would also benefit their center-left opponents. May's Conservative Party quit the EPP a decade ago, meaning British EU elections always leave the center-right bloc empty-handed. "It's not about party politics," Weber said. "It's about how to manage the situation. "I cannot explain to anyone in Europe ... that a country which is leaving the EU has a big say in the future of the European Union. That is not understandable for people." Opinion polls indicate that, even without British votes, euroskeptic parties could increase their share of seats to 14 percent from 10 percent, potentially giving them a greater opportunity to disrupt efforts by the larger groupings in the pro-EU center to promote policies on European integration. (Additional reporting by Clare Roth; Editing by Janet Lawrence) Two JetBlue pilots allegedly drugged three crew members, with one pilot raping two of the women during a Puerto Rico layover, a new lawsuit claims. The lawsuit, filed by two of the crew members referred to as Jane Doe, alleges that pilot Eric Johnson, along with fellow pilot Dan Watson, passed three of their JetBlue colleagues an open beer on the beach outside the Intercontinental Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on May 9, 2018. The plaintiffs contend the beer contained a date rape drug. "After that point, the rest of the night became a blur for Doe # 1, Doe # 2 and the other crew member," the lawsuit states. Johnson is accused of raping Jane Doe 1 and the third crew member, who is not part of the lawsuit, in the same hotel bed. Jane Doe 1 "was unable to react to the situation, but was simply aware that it was happening, the lawsuit says. She has flashes of memory, which include Johnson saying, "Thank you for making my fantasy come true." Watson is accused of taking part in the alleged drugging but "he left the scene after having been scratched," according to the paperwork. Jane Doe 2 contends in the suit that the pilots had intended to sexually assault her, but she "began vomiting, which was a turnoff." The next morning, after waking up "groggy and numb," all three crew members convened on their return trip to Newark Airport. During the flight, they "were all nauseous and each had to use the bathroom to vomit." "The three of them then looked up the symptoms of rape drugs and found their symptoms were consistent with having been drugged, and that they all began feeling those symptoms and effects right after drinking from the defendants beer," the lawsuit states. Jane Doe 1 states she reported the incident to police upon returning home and sought medical assistance. Previously STD-free, she tested positive for the human papillomavirus and claims Johnson "intentionally" passed the STD on to her. Story continues The women reported their sexual assault, rape and sex and gender discrimination to JetBlue at their New York corporate headquarters. "Despite JetBlue purporting to investigate the matter, no corrective action was ever taken against" the defendants, the lawsuit states. The women are seeking an unspecified amount from the airline and pilots "to be determined at the time of trial." JetBlue declined to comment on the pending litigation, but told USA TODAY in a statement that the airline"takes allegations of violent or inappropriate behavior very seriously and investigates such claims thoroughly. We work to create a respectful workplace for all our crewmembers where they feel welcome and safe." The pilots union, the Air Line Pilots Association, also told USA TODAY in a statement: As this is an active lawsuit, ALPA is unable to comment on the specific incident. However, JetBlue pilots hold each other to the highest standards of professional conduct to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of our crew members and passengers." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: JetBlue lawsuit claims pilots drugged three crew members and raped two Graphic by Bae So-young By Lee Suh-yoon Frank Chinedu Obioha is a Nigerian inmate at a foreigners-only prison in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province. He has been here for a decade now. First arrested in China in 2007 then transferred to Korea, he was given a life sentence in 2009 after being found guilty of heading a drug trafficking ring. The only person who used to visit Obioha at the prison was the Nigerian ambassador around Christmas time. However, he has not had a single visitor after these annual visits ended in 2013. Now 51, he wants to serve the rest of his sentence back in Nigeria, where he can get regular visits from his family and friends while serving out his term, National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) officials who interviewed him at the prison said. But Obioha cannot apply for a transfer to a correction facility back home as Korea does not have a standing agreement with Nigeria for the transfer of convicted felons yet. After reviewing Obioha's case, the human rights watchdog called on the Ministry of Justice to "actively seek out which prisoners wish for a transfer to their home country and where possible, sign bilateral prisoner transfer pacts with the relevant countries" according to a press statement, Thursday. "The international transfer of prisoners facilitates their social rehabilitation," the NHRCK said. The commission had to drop Obioha's case in the end due to the lack of the transfer agreement. "Through the transfer system, we hope sentenced foreigners can lower any problems due to language or cultural differences, and have better emotional stability while preserving familial ties." Obioha is not the only one who does not have access to a repatriation procedure. Out of the 106 foreign prisoners with over 10 years remaining in their jail terms, 25 are from countries that do not have a standing agreement for the transfer, according to a 2018 government data. In a 2014 report titled "Prisons and Health," the World Health Organization recommended foreign prisoners be transferred to an equivalent facility in their home country, stating, "foreign prisoners can experience greater isolation than others and can face greater uncertainty about life after release," which may lead to mental health issues. The Ministry of Justice was not immediately available for comment regarding what steps were being taken following the NHRCK recommendations. Hwang Pill-kyu, a lawyer at GongGam Human Rights Law Foundation, says mutual prisoner transfer pacts with other nations will benefit Koreans, too. "Signing a mutual prisoner transfer pact with as many countries as possible will help Koreans who are sentenced abroad enjoy the same rights," Hwang told The Korea Times, Friday. "This is not something that will disadvantage Korea in any way or impose extra costs; it's just a system that will allow states to mutually respect each other's citizens." Based on his experience advising both Koreans who were sentenced abroad and foreigners who were sentenced here, Hwang says the bigger problem may be outlining a clear procedure so that both groups can speedily file for transfers. "Signing pacts is important, but making sure sentenced people predictably exercise their rights by outlining a clear and transparent procedure in advance is more often the problem," Hwang said. "In many cases, people belatedly find out about what works to their disadvantage." As it is a signatory to the European Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, Korea can currently transfer sentenced persons of 46 Council of Europe (CoE) member states and 21 non-European states that have also ratified the convention. It also has separate bilateral transfer pacts with Mongolia, China, Vietnam, India, Kuwait, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Kyrgyzstan. Washington (AFP) - Now that the Islamic State group has officially lost its geographic "caliphate," the Pentagon is marking a historic moment in its years-long campaign to defeat the jihadists. From a military perspective at least, the United States can claim significant success in its strategy of working "by, with and through" local proxy forces, where a Kurdish militia in Syria and security forces in Iraq bore the brunt of the fighting -- and dying. But IS still has thousands of battle-hardened fighters across several countries, and questions loom over whether the group's territorial loss can be parlayed into an enduring defeat -- or whether President Donald Trump's decision to pull most troops from Syria is premature, and risks ruining the end game. "I'd be hesitant to use the term winning," General Raymond Thomas, who heads US Special Operations Command, told lawmakers recently. The objective is "to be able to maintain persistent capabilities so that an external threat cannot emanate from that in the future." Asked if he was satisfied the United States was at that point, Thomas said: "I do not think we're there yet." How much the United States can influence things will only diminish after the Pentagon withdraws all but 200 of the 2,000 or so special forces from Syria that have been helping the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. Trump in December declared victory over IS, saying the US had "beaten them badly" as he announced the pullout. John Spencer, a scholar at the Modern War Institute at West Point, said things were not so simple. IS "is a terrorist organization, all they have to do is put down their weapons and try to blend in with the population and just escape," he told AFP. "They're not gone, and they're not going to be gone," he said. - Started under Obama - The US-led mission began in late 2014 under president Barack Obama, after IS fighters seized an area the size of Britain across Iraq and Syria. Story continues In an effort to "degrade and ultimately defeat" the black-flag-flying jihadists, the United States formed a coalition that grew to more than 70 nations, several of which started bombing IS positions in 2014. In the years since, the coalition has conducted about 34,000 air strikes in Syria and Iraq. Instead of committing large numbers of troops, the coalition combined its air campaign with training and advising to local forces. The decision stemmed partly from the Iraq War, which saw more than 4,400 US troops die. An American public wary of additional deployments did not want Obama recommitting more combat troops. The strategy paid off fastest in Iraq, where a national military that had neared collapse in the face of the IS advance morphed into an army that ousted the jihadists from one city after another until retaking their stronghold of Mosul in 2017. When Trump took office, he essentially continued Obama's strategy, albeit with tougher talk and looser constraints on air strikes. "Overall, the US strategy was effective at pushing back the Islamic State," Daniel Byman, a senior Fellow at the Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution, told AFP. However, he noted, it has not solved the problem of local governance in Syria, where the grueling civil war gave rise to the conditions that allowed IS to blossom in the first place. "So the Islamic State is remaining active -- hundreds of killings this month alone -- as an insurgency," Byman said. The toll on US-backed local forces has been brutal, with thousands of Syrian and Iraqi fighters killed. - 'It's just no' - Trump's decision to withdraw from Syria has left Kurdish partners scrambling for safeguards, and they are hoping a "safe zone" in the north can provide them cover. A US departure makes Kurdish fighters more vulnerable to attack by neighboring Turkey, which considers them to be "terrorists," and dashes their dreams of autonomy. The New York-based Soufan Group, which compiles security assessments, cautioned against claims of beating IS. That would "only serve to offer a false sense of security while showing that the United States remains out of touch with realities on the ground," Soufan said. General Joseph Votel, who heads the US military's Central Command, said the military cannot take its eye off IS. "The coalition's hard-won battlefield gains can only be secured by maintaining a vigilant offensive against a now largely disbursed and disaggregated (IS) that retains leaders, fighters, facilitators, resources and the profane ideology that fuels their efforts," said Votel, who is about to retire, adding that Trump never checked in with him about a Syria withdrawal. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan has tried to convince skeptical allies to help secure Syria. But "it is totally out of the question to have French troops on the ground without the Americans there," one French government source told AFP. "It's just no." The European Fine Art Fair, called TEFAF, is held every March in Maastricht in the Netherlands. Its the grande dame of art fairs: not the worlds oldest but in its 32nd year venerable enough, and certainly the best and most exclusive. It has a New York iteration now, and Ive written about that, but its Baby TEFAF. This week, I spent two days at the Maastricht mothership. With 275 of the best dealers, and with each object vetted for quality and authenticity, it was both a feast and one way to understand the overall condition of the art market. Of course, the art market is not just one market but a thousand niche markets. The Old Master market is much different from other markets and is itself parsed microscopically by nationality, chronology, school, fame, supply, condition, and fads. Ill use a slice of this market to answer the question, Why go to Maastricht? The big reason is seeing things like Bernardo Bellottos View of the Grand Canal from 1739. Bellotto (17221780) was, with Canaletto, the premier Venice view painter, and this picture is among the zeniths of the genre. Its gorgeous, with miniaturist dazzle and big scale. So, theres the highest quality. Its the freshest of meat, too. Purchased by an English Grand Tourist in 1760, it has stayed with the family since then. Its entirely new to the market and, to cut the gem more finely, has never been exhibited and was unknown to scholars. This happens, still. I once saw an unknown Winslow Homer watercolor whose owner kept it under his bed. His grandfather, who bought it from Homer in 1892, had kept it under his. So, theres quality and freshness in the Bellotto. The dealer, Charles Beddington, cleaned off nearly 300 years of dirt, but the schmutz was one of the things keeping it in pristine condition. Now, the markets for Bellotto and Canaletto are different, though they lived roughly the same time, did views, and were both Venetian. Canaletto is the more famous. Bellotto did Venice landscapes, but he also did city scenes of Dresden, Vienna, and other cities whose local grandees hired him. So, he does not have a concession on the high-end Venice niche. He wandered inland. That Bellotto was only 17 when he painted this might be a subtle factor in market price. To me, it shows a formidable prodigy at work. For others, he might be just a smart kid. Story continues Bellottos light and palette are different. Canaletto at his market prime painted blue skies, sparkling water, and rainbow colors. Bellottos light is silvery. His palette is more subdued. Bellottos paintings are filled with geometric forms, hundreds of squares and rectangles, which makes them look modern and edgy to me but too much so for the collector looking for the embodiment of an Old Master genre in its perfect form. Looking forward, for some, is too disconcerting. If it were by Canaletto, with the color and light key juiced a bit higher, it would go for $15 million. Beddington asks a fraction of that. He has a lovely Canaletto depicting Somerset House in London. Canaletto did English things, too, and the English scenes are less than the Venetian scenes. Theyre offbeat Canaletto subjects. Yet the name Canaletto is a mighty one. This English scene costs 6 million, still more than the Bellotto. Weiss Gallery offered an extraordinary Jacobean costume piece, or fancy dress portrait, that was in near-pristine condition, having descended from the subjects family since it was painted in 1620. It shows the young Thomas Dallison with soft sfumato brushwork, sumptuous silk, a lace collar and cuff, kid gloves, and a blue ostrich feather hat. A silver-embroidered mantle and sash with little lace droplets were the height of fashion and taste. Dallison was clearly a rich and ambitious young man. He later took the kings side in the Civil War and died in 1645 in the Battle of Naseby. Paul Van Somer, the Flemish emigre artist who painted the picture, is an enigmatic figure but certainly a fine talent. He presented Dallison with none of the stiffness of Elizabethan portraits, most of whose subjects have hard, porcelain-like faces. Both this picture, priced at 250,000, and Porcini Gallerys new-to-the-market painting of St. John the Baptist by Jusepe Ribera, at 900,000, show how distorted, no, distended and disgusting, the market for contemporary art has become. Agnews, always wonderful, had a sublime little painting of Jesus by Luis Morales, also fresh, at $500,000. He was a peer of El Greco, with a Christian vision powered by sadness and suffering rather than salvation and triumph. Lowell Libson and Jonny Yarker offered Two Boys and a Bladder by Joseph Wright of Derby from 1769, again unknown and hidden on the wall of an English country house for 250 years. Its an early tribute to the Industrial Revolution, then new, so its suffused with youth, discovery, and mystery. Yarker is a young dealer and an art-history Ph.D., so his perspective is different. It was already sold when I got there so I couldnt get the price. These pictures have presence, heritage, vision, and freshness. When I see people paying $80 million for a painting by Jean-Michel Basquiat, a good but limited and immature artist, or $50 million for work by Jeff Koons, until recently the highest price ever paid at auction for a living artist, I despair of the future of high culture. The Van Somer and Bellotto and many other Old Masters I loved are silver to their dross. TEFAF has certainly broadened its scope over the years. It was once strictly Old Masters and over time has added antiquities and tribal art. This year, it has pushed to feature dealers selling modern and contemporary art because thats where the big money is. Thats where rich young collectors are, too. They add spark, and I suppose their presence cuts collisions of motorized wheelchairs. The Old Master crowd is, well, old. Most of the modern art, art from, say, 1900 to 1970, was not junk but safe stuff. I saw lots of so-so Legers, Louise Nevelsons, a litter of small Giacometti sculptures, some nice works by Beckmann and Kirchner, a small de Stahl painting from 1952, a Mondrian from 1908, Mondrian before he was Mondian but still lovely. Pace had it, and I believe the asking price was $1.3 million. Pace had a small section of early Mondrians, mostly squiggles, but this one is complex enough to see where he was headed. Maastricht is still the peak of Old Masters shows. Theres a real drop in quality after the Impressionists. Some booths had prints by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein that were big, splashy, not what Id call crappy but lets say the buyers were either decorators or rich people insecure in their taste. Ill reserve comment on the work by living Asian artists since I dont know the field at all. There are some antiquities dealers but I wonder, dimly in terms of aesthetics, how much good material is on the marketplace. Its a legally fraught field because of so much theft and illegal movement. I saw a fine, strong sculpture by John Chamberlain from 1991, offered by Karsten Greve, a German dealer in Cologne and Paris. Its big, important, and handsome, and at 1.9 million it seems reasonable. Its quality is unquestionable. The fair is embracing contemporary art in baby steps. Three dealers seem to have climbed to the pinnacle in offering art that was both new and the best of its kind. Their booths were fascinating and clever. Massimo De Carlo is a Milan dealer with a handsome, eclectic selection of work by Piotr Uklanski, Luigi Ontani, Yan Pei-Ming, and Jim Hodges, very international, all new, and all good. The Hodges, at $475,000, was strong and one of the few American things at the fair. It makes the point that the art market is a world market with many bases aside from New York. Massimo De Carlo, for instance, has a shop in Hong Kong. Fergus McCaffrey from New York was the only dealer with an all-American booth and, as far as I can tell, the only dealer at TEFAF featuring a single-artist booth. Barry X Balls Hermaphrodite is probably the sensation of the fair. Ball takes famous works of Old Master and ancient sculpture, like the Louvres Sleeping Hermaphrodite from Hellenistic Greece and about 100 B.C., takes hundreds of photos, generates a 3D scan and selects exotic stone. A computer-programmed machine then carves the stone, making a hyper-realistic replica that the artist then polishes by hand, itself an arduous part of production. Its 21st-century technology changing how art is made. If Bernini or Michelangelo had had the technology, they would have used every bit of it. Balls Hermaphrodite wasnt for sale, but smaller works by Ball using the same approach were offered and selling for less than $500,000. These are not rip-offs of something else. Theyre freestanding creatures of our culture, our technology, and gorgeous materials. Of course, the Gender Fluidists in the art world loved Balls Hermaphrodite for its topicality. Were in a new, bizarre gender war. Unsaid is that hermaphrodites were figures in Greek and Roman mythology. Like unicorns, Santa Klaus, and the Easter Bunny, theyre not for real. That said, I was delighted with Balls work and Fergus McCaffreys bravery in presenting a single American artist. Ball is good, and I was proud to see American art so well represented. Some of the contemporary and modern art dealers confessed to me how sheepish they felt in pricing work as they choose, as the market dictates, really, while revered Old Master painting, truly smashing work like the Ribera, for instance, or the Somer, or the Morales, sells for less. They know, as I do, that Mr. Market has one crazy set of rules. Alex Vervoordts booth showed one approach future fairs might encourage. Hes a smart dealer based in Antwerp, again with a place in Hong Kong. His booth was the most eclectic and creative, with an installation of Minimalism, antiquities, Old Master tapestries, and a big, bold, complex figure study by the underpriced and understudied French artist Paul Helleu. Anchoring his booth were two great things. He had a splendid painting from Kazua Shiraga from 1963. He was the last Abstract Expressionist giant with a good, new idea. He was Japanese and painted very bold, intense works with his feet while in a deep state of meditation. At 2.5 million, its a good buy. That was on one end of his booth. On the other was a El Anatsui wall tapestry for $1.1 million made in 2017. Mixed with everything else, these two things created an overall impression of harmony and good taste, spanning many centuries, united by high quality. Its an art fair, and the bottom line for an art fair is buying and selling. Amid the refined frenzy, Franz Franckens Death Playing the Fiddle for an Old Man from about 1620 is a typically Flemish reminder that money, ultimately, is useless. Its the gentlest nudge and at 36,000, a fine and precious thing. Rafael Valls, a London dealer in small Dutch and Flemish cabinet pieces, has it. A finer point to take from everything I saw at the fair? Enjoy it while you can. More from National Review Washington (AFP) - America's top marine warned that deployments to the US-Mexico border and President Donald Trump's plan for a wall pose an "unacceptable risk" to the force, according to documents revealed Thursday by The Los Angeles Times. In memos addressed to acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan and Navy secretary Richard Spencer, General Robert Neller wrote that he had been forced to cancel or reduce exercises in five countries. Marines will miss exercises in Indonesia, Scotland and Mongolia, and their participation in joint exercises in Australia and South Korea will be reduced, Neller said in the documents dated March 18 and 19. A Marine Corps spokesman confirmed the validity of the documents published by the LA Times. Neller said Trump's emergency declaration to secure $6.7 billion from the Pentagon's 2019 budget for his wall meant the corps could not afford to rebuild hurricane-hit bases in North Carolina and Georgia. "The hurricane season is only three months away... and we have Marines, Sailors, and civilians working in compromised structures," Neller wrote. "While (financial year 2019) was supposed to be a 'good year' given an 'on-time' enacted budget and topline, those positive attributes are now overcome by the negative factors... imposing unacceptable risk to Marine Corps combat readiness and solvency," he added. Shanahan has not yet released the funds claimed by the president. "Monetarily, recovery for those areas affected by the hurricanes is by far the most significant budgetary pressure listed in the memo," said Marines spokesman Captain Joseph Butterfield. BEVERLY HILLS JANUARY 6: (L-R) Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys attend the 2019 Fox Nominee Party for the 76th Annual Golden Globe Awards at the Fox Terrace on the Roof Deck of the Beverly Hilton on January 6, 2019, in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Frank Micelotta/Fox/PictureGroup/Sipa USA) Its just simple maths. Matthew Rhys + Sopranos director + Perry Mason = cracking new HBO show. At least thats the equation that execs at the US TV network are banking on. News has been swirling about a reboot centring around the crime-fighting attorney for a while, but HBO green lit the project this week when Emmy-winning director Tim Van Patten came on board. Read more: Matthew Rhys To Star In Title Role Of HBO Patten is an HBO favourite having directed episodes of The Sopranos, Game of Thrones and Boardwalk Empire for the network. But the new Perry Mason wont be a remake as such. This Mason will be younger, living in the 1930s and not yet the legal eagle fans of the original show might remember (or might not, after all it originally screened in the 1950s and 60s). But while you may not have seen the show, you will know the famous title music. Its a welcome return to the small screen for Matthew Rhys too. Fans of The Americans have been crying into their hands since FX called time on his hit thriller last year. The Golden Globe-winning drama had viewers on tenterhooks for six long seasons as Rhys and co-star Keri Russell played Russian spies in America. Read more: Keri Russell & Matthew Rhys On The Americans Emmy-Nominated 4th Season During that time Rhys and Russell actually became a couple and now have a child together. When the Welsh actor picked up his Emmy for his part in The Americans earlier this year, he thanked his partner, adding that she said if you propose to me I will punch you clean in the mouth. The new Perry Mason will be executive produced by Rhys and Robert Downey Jrs production company Team Downey. The Avengers actor was originally meant to star, but feature film commitments made it impossible for him to proceed. Brussels (AFP) - Over an agonising two-hour grilling, British Prime Minister Theresa May failed to convince exasperated European leaders she has any plan to deliver an orderly Brexit if MPs vote her withdrawal deal down. Tightlipped and evasive, she parried questions until EU chiefs asked her to leave Thursday's summit meeting and embarked on a negotiation among themselves to draw up a new Brexit timetable. "British politicians are today incapable of implementing what the people asked for," France's President Emmanuel Macron declared. EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker was "at the end of his tether", one diplomatic source told AFP. May's government is in crisis and she has proved unable to muster a majority to approve the Brexit withdrawal deal struck at a previous Brussels get-together in November. With a potentially catastrophic "no deal" departure looming on March 29, the other 27 EU leaders were determined to take charge, and came to Brussels armed with the clear plan. As set out by host EU Council president Donald Tusk and in draft conclusions leaked to the media, they offered to postpone Brexit to May 22 if British MPs backed the prime minister's withdrawal agreement. But the leaders wanted to know what she would do if the deal fails again -- as most observers believe is likely. "She replied that she has no plan B, but was sticking to plan A," one source said. "She didn't have answers to all the questions," Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel told reporters on Friday morning. - May waits outside - Once May had left the room, Macron told the meeting that he had arrived believing there was a 10 percent chance that May would succeed, according to several European sources. But, after hearing from her, he said: "I think there is a five percent chance". To which Tusk retorted: "You are very optimistic." While May lurked in her delegation's office space, and the leaders argued over dinner, a new conclusions document was drawn up. Story continues After six hours, they eventually agreed to add to their original offer an unconditional proposal to delay Brexit to April 12. They were forced to postpone a planned discussion on relations with China -- for which May had been due to rejoin them, over dinner -- as different leaders set out different options. "It was very intense," said Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, a reflection echoed by German Chancellor Angela Merkel. At a press conference afterwards, Tusk insisted there was no rancour. "It was first and foremost a discussion about all possible scenarios. What if, what if -- nobody knows," an EU source said. May stayed in the building, and was briefed three times by Tusk -- once before the talks, once during a break and again after they finally reached an agreement at 11.20pm. Some of her team followed developments as they leaked out onto Twitter, with one official admitting afterwards that some of the options considered "would have been quite challenging". - EU hopes for 'rational choice' - In the end, Britain accepted the offer, even if it fell short of May's proposal for a delay until June 30, and several European leaders expressed satisfaction at the result. Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel said the EU "hoped for a rational choice" from Britain, but there remains intense frustration at the deadlock in parliament. The EU had previously floated the idea of an emergency summit next week if MPs reject May's deal, but Macron warned this would put the responsibility to decide onto the leaders. "The EU doesn't have all the cards, because everything depends on the British vote," Macron told a late-night press conference. And Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said: "We're a little bit careful given the history of votes." The discussion over the extension threatened to undermine the unity of the 27, which has held remarkably well since the Britain's 2016 referendum. But diplomats said that leaders are determined that Brexit wranglings will not disrupt preparations for European Parliament elections in May. "Now Brexit touches really the core of the functioning of the European Union," one said. burs-ar-dc/pdw/dl Donald Trump may have been sent by God to save the Jewish people from any threat posed by Iran, his secretary of state has claimed. In an interview in Jerusalem with the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), Mike Pompeo was asked whether the US president was a latter-day Queen Esther, a figure who appears on both Christian and Jewish stories as a person who halted an attempt to wipe out the Jewish people. Mr Pompeo claimed that because of the presidents hardline stance against Iran, Mr Trump may indeed fit such a role. Could it be that President Trump right now has been sort of raised for such a time as this, just like Queen Esther, to help save the Jewish people from the Iranian menace, CBNs interviewer asked Mr Pompeo. As a Christian I certainly believe thats possible, replied the US secretary of state. It was remarkable. So we were down in the tunnels where we could see 3,000 years ago, and 2,000 years ago if I have the history just right to see the remarkable history of the faith in this place and the work that our administration's done to make sure that this democracy in the Middle East, that this Jewish state remains. He added: I am confident that the Lord is at work here. The comments from Mr Pompeo were delivered as Mr Trump announced on Twitter that Washington will from now on recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, overturning longstanding US policy towards the area, which was seized from Syria during the Six-Day War in 1967. In December 2017, the US president broke with decades of precedent to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, the international community having long said the final status of the city was something that should be part of a comprehensive deal between Israel and the Palestinian authorities Last May, Mr Trump again broke with international consensus to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal and start reimposing sanctions on Tehran. While UN inspections had confirmed Iran was keeping its part of the agreement, Mr Trump always believed it was a "bad deal". At the same time, Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons. Story continues On Friday, Mr Pompeo tweeted: Our maximum pressure campaign on #Iran continues with todays sanctions on targets involved in the regimes nuclear program, including former nuclear weapons scientists. Well be relentless in denying Iran the ability to engage in WMD proliferation and all its outlaw activities. Also on Friday, the UN Human Rights Council criticised Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights The UN rights forum adopted an annual resolution on the Syrian Golan, brought by Pakistan on behalf of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC), with 26 states in favour, 16 against and 5 abstentions. European members including Britain voted against it. Voting for such a resolution should send a clear message...to the occupying power and to all who support Israel inside this Council and outside, Syria's ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Hussam Edin Aala, told the talks, Reuters said. The United States is justifying the practices by the Israeli occupation and ignoring Security Council resolutions. The occupied Syrian Golan was and shall remain Arab and Syrian. iStock/Thinkstock(WASHINGTON) -- Attorney General Wiliam Barr headed into work on Saturday morning to read special counsel Robert Mueller's report. The much-anticipated report was handed to the Justice Department for Barrs review, and Congress was notified of the transfer late Friday afternoon, according to a Justice Department spokeswoman. After reviewing Mueller's report, Barr will then send what he has described as his own "report" on the Mueller investigation to the top Democrats and Republicans on the House and Senate Judiciary committees. Barr has promised to be as transparent as possible, but it's unclear how extensive or detailed Barr's own "report" to Congress will be. In a letter to the leaders of the House and Senate Judiciary committees, Barr wrote that he is reviewing the report and anticipates that he "may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." He continued that, separately, he intends to "consult with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Special Counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law." "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders tweeted on Friday afternoon. A senior Department of Justice official told ABC News on Friday that the report will not include any further indictments. Mueller and his team investigated how far the Kremlin went to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, including trying to determine whether any Americans may have helped those efforts. At the heart of Muellers probe were two Russian operations: the spread of disinformation on social media, and the release of thousands of sensitive emails stolen by hackers from the Democratic National Committee and other Democratic targets. Muellers team has charged 25 Russian nationals and three foreign companies for their alleged role in those operations. In appointing a special counsel to investigate, however, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein also directed Mueller to look into allegations of possible coordination between Russian operatives and associates of President Donald Trump. Trump and his Republican allies have derided the investigation as a witch hunt. But Rosenstein, FBI Director Chris Wray and Barr have each explicitly disputed that description. At least four Trump associates, including Trumps former national security adviser Michael Flynn, have pleaded guilty to lying to federal agents during the Russia-related investigation. Another Trump associate, the presidents former attorney Michael Cohen, has pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about Trumps business dealings in Moscow. And former Trump adviser Roger Stone has been charged with lying to Congress about his alleged role in tracking information stolen from Democrats during the 2016 presidential campaign. Muellers investigation grew out of a probe the FBI launched in late July 2016. By then, the FBI was already scrutinizing Trump campaign manager Paul Manaforts business dealings with pro-Russian officials in Ukraine dealings that have since landed Manafort in jail. And the FBI was keeping tabs on Trump adviser Carter Page, who was previously targeted for recruitment by Russian spies and had raised eyebrows with a trip to Moscow in mid-July 2016. But claims by Trump adviser George Papadopoulos that the Russians were touting dirt on Clinton really set off alarms inside the FBI. If any Americans were part of helping the Russians [attack] us, that is a very big deal, James Comey, who was FBI director at the time, later told lawmakers. Several weeks after formally launching the Russia probe, counterintelligence agents leading the investigation in Washington received a so-called dossier, which had been compiled at the behest of Democrats and detailed uncorroborated allegations of coordination between Trumps campaign and the Kremlin. Some of the allegations involved Page, who was already on the FBIs radar, so agents began secretly intercepting his communications. Page has never been charged with any crimes. The wide-ranging investigation continued even after Trump took office. After Jeff Sessions became attorney general, he recused himself from oversight of the FBIs Russia-related probe, citing his previous advocacy for Trump on the campaign trail. Rosenstein subsequently assumed oversight of the investigation. And then Trump shocked the federal law enforcement community: He fired Comey. The move prompted Rosenstein to appoint Mueller to take over the whole matter, including a review of whether Comey's firing and other actions meant Trump improperly tried to obstruct the probe. Comey later alleged that in a private meeting with Trump before his removal, the president directed Comey to let [Flynn] go. Mueller has not released any evidence suggesting Trump committed a crime related to Russian efforts. However, Mueller did uncover evidence of other possible crimes and referred those cases to other federal prosecutors. The U.S. Attorneys Office in Manhattan ended up tying Trump to federal campaign violations, alleging that in the midst of the 2016 presidential campaign Trump personally directed Cohen to silence two woman claiming affairs with Trump by making illegal payments to them; Trump has repeatedly denied the affairs. Cohen has pleaded guilty for his role in the matter, but no other charges have been filed. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. By Karen Dillon ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (Reuters) - Record floodwaters that submerged vast stretches of Nebraska and Iowa farmland along America's longest river reached a new crest on Friday at the waterfront city of St. Joseph, Missouri, forcing chaotic evacuations of thousands from low-lying areas. With emergency sirens blaring as the Missouri River rose to the top of the three-story-high levee wall in St. Joseph, about 55 miles (88 km) north of Kansas City, Missouri, sheriff's deputies rushed door-to-door urging residents to flee to higher ground. About 1,500 residents and 6,000 employees of neighboring businesses were ushered out of the southern end of town, a city official said. Most of the evacuated dwellings were trailer homes interspersed among factories, warehouses and stockyards along a stretch of the riverfront known as "the Bottoms." Many residents appeared stunned as they scurried out of their homes with armloads of hurriedly gathered belongings to throw into their vehicles before joining a steady stream of cars, pickup trucks, SUVs and tractor-trailers. The abrupt evacuation, coming as the river rose just over 15 feet (4.57 meters) above flood stage - slightly exceeding the previous record of 32.1 feet (9.78 meters) - appeared to take authorities and residents by surprise. "We don't have anywhere to go. This is overwhelming," said Linda Roberts, 70, as she and her husband, John, 66, packed their SUV, their dog sitting uneasily in a pet carrier. With police doing their best to direct gridlocked traffic and with helicopters whirring overhead, dust billowed up from packed roadways for hours, mixed with the odors of livestock and chemicals, as the mass exodus proceeded in slow motion. The St. Jo Frontier Casino, about 5 miles to the north, was already surrounded by water, and roadways along the river were submerged, officials said. The flood crest was expected to reach the Kansas towns of Atchison and Leavenworth, about 35 miles farther downstream, on Saturday, and Kansas City as early as Sunday, officials said. Story continues FLOOD RECORDS BROKEN Missouri River flooding was triggered by last week's "bomb cyclone" storm, which killed at least four people, drowned livestock and closed dozens of roads across a large swath of Nebraska and Iowa. Property and financial losses for the two Midwestern states were projected to surpass $3 billion. Torrential showers over hundreds of square miles of melting snowpack produced record volumes of runoff that poured into the Missouri just above the Gavins Point Dam where the river divides Nebraska from South Dakota, nearly 400 miles upstream from Kansas City. The dam is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Water entering the reservoir from that storm marked the greatest volume measured there in 120 years of recordkeeping, said John Remus, chief water manager for the Army Corps' Missouri River basin. The downstream flow, breaking flood stage records at several locations along the river, has placed enormous strain on the region's system of flood-control levees. Nearly 50 levee breaches have been confirmed in the Army Corp's Omaha district alone, encompassing the hardest hit parts of Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri, officials told a news briefing. Nebraska farmers were digging out of flooded fields and coping with cut-off highways on Friday. "The biggest thing right now is the transportation. We're right between Loup and Cedar River, and transportation is nearly impossible," said Ryan Sonderup, 36, of Fullerton, Nebraska, who has been farming for 18 years. Officials downstream were carefully watching flood gauges in Atchison, Kansas, a community of about 10,000 residents where a handful of riverfront properties and roads were under threat of flooding. Missouri Governor Mike Parson declared an emergency on Wednesday as high water forced evacuations of several small farm communities in the northwestern corner of his state. President Donald Trump on Thursday approved a disaster declaration for Nebraska, making federal funding available in nine counties ravaged by last week's floods. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds on Friday requested a presidential disaster declaration for 57 flood-stricken counties in her state. The threat of extensive flooding lingers over the wider Midwest and could grow dire in coming weeks with additional rainfall and melting snow runoff, putting more than 200 million people at risk, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said on Thursday. (Reporting by Karen Dillon in St. Joseph, Mo.; Writing and additional reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Editing by Bill Tarrant and Leslie Adler) SALEM, Ore. In a matter of days, an Oregon mother watched her 7-week-old baby go from happy and alert to gravely sick with meningitis to dying in her arms. Now she's searching for answers, urging parents to trust their instincts and demanding changes at Salem Hospital's emergency room after her sick daughter was discharged hours before her vital signs crashed. "My hope is that something good can come out of this," Ginger McCall said. "What I want the most is to raise awareness so this doesn't happen to anyone else." McCall, an attorney and state official who works as Oregon's public record advocate, moved from Washington, D.C., to Salem with her husband a year ago. She was thrilled to discover she was pregnant. "I wanted a baby for years," McCall said. "I feel like I waited my entire life to meet her and we only got seven weeks together." Ginger McCall's 7-week-old daughter, Evianna Quintero-McCall, died of meningitis on Sunday after being discharged from the Salem Hospital emergency room with a fever. Photographed at her home in West Salem on March 22, 2019. Salem Hospital officials declined to comment on the death, citing privacy concerns. This is a heartbreaking loss, and Salem Health offers its deepest condolences," officials said in statement. McCall sat Friday in her living room surrounded by flowers and cards, a program from her daughter's memorial next to her on the table. It had been less than a week since Evianna Rose Quintero-McCall Evi for short died. Evi came down with a fever the morning of March 15. She cried a weak, moaning cry a cry McCall now knows is a telltale sign of Group B strep meningitis. She and her mother-in-law rushed Evi to Salem Hospital where she was given Tylenol and sent home with a lingering fever. More: Valley fever: Why the CDC calls this little-known disease a 'silent epidemic' Hospital staff called infection routine Looking back, McCall wishes she would've known to insist on a meningitis test, or driven 90 minutes to OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Portland, where they might have recognized the infection that would go on to kill her daughter. Story continues She tried to stay calm, trusting the doctors. "There's a stereotype of a hysterical, panicked, first-time mom, and that probably affected the situation," McCall said. She told staff she tested positive for Strep B while pregnant. Expectant mothers are typically tested for the Group B strep infection and treated with antibiotics. The bacterial infection can be passed to babies during delivery. McCall said hospital staff told her Evi probably just had a routine infection. But Evi's wounded cry "the worst sound you could imagine" continued. "I knew she was in real, terrible pain," she said. A few hours later, McCall drove her baby to her pediatrician. Still feverish, Evi threw-up in the exam room. Her doctor told her: Go to the emergency room. Now. He called ahead to alert hospital staff. "I figured the doctors would be able to fix it," McCall said. "I remember thinking we don't live in the 1800s, surely someone will save my child." Once there, everything became a blur as hospital staff performed a spinal tap and tried to stabilize her daughter. "It happened so fast. ... All of the sudden, she was crashing and they didn't take a moment to tell us what was happening. We were left in the dark." Evi was transported via ambulance to OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital. Her condition deteriorated. "They did their very best, but by the time she got there, it was just too late," McCall said. Doctors have to end life support Her daughter was placed on life support and declared brain dead. McCall and her husband, Omar Quintero, slept fitfully next to Evi. Alarms woke them at 5 a.m. Sunday her vital signs were dropping. Doctors withdrew life support, and McCall and her family took Evi to a hospital courtyard where they held her as she died. "I will never get to know what color her eyes would've been or what her voice would've sounded like or who she would've grown up to be," McCall said. "That just kills me." In the days that followed, McCall learned she wasn't the only Salem mother to lose her baby to meningitis. In May 2018, a 7-month-old boy was taken to Silverton Medical Center, where he was given Tylenol and sent home despite the family's concerns. The infant was later flown to Doernbecher and died from bacterial meningitis. More: Separate vaccine can protect against meningitis B strain An average of 4,100 cases of bacterial meningitis resulting in 500 deaths are reported every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Babies are at an increased risk of contracting meningitis, which can be spread during birth. They can also contract it through the air from people coughing and sneezing, or from contaminated food. McCall said she was told Evi had late-onset Group B strep, which caused the meningitis. She wants parents to know the warning signs. "I hope they will strongly advocate for themselves and their children," McCall said. "I hope they will appreciate every moment they have with their children." Ginger McCall holds an ultrasound image of her 7-week-old daughter, Evianna Quintero-McCall, who died of meningitis on Sunday after being discharged from the Salem Hospital emergency room with a fever. Photographed at her home in West Salem on March 22, 2019. Mom believes better training needed Symptoms of Group B strep meningitis and recording samples of the cries commonly heard in those infected are available at groupbstrepinternational.org. McCall said her real hope is for hospital staff to become better educated about meningitis symptoms and change their protocol about diagnosis and discharge. She wonders if her daughter would be alive if someone spotted her weak cry as a sign of the infection during her first ER visit. "I would like if for them to be trained to recognize the signs of this because it is so catastrophic and it happens so fast," she said. "Every minute matters." She said she's not interested in suing the hospital for money. She just wants to see change. With her good job, supportive family and law degree, McCall said she feels like she has the social, political and economic capital that most people do not have. "I think it is my responsibility to use that to ensure this doesn't happen again," she said. An outpouring of support followed Evi's death. Friends, family, government officials and co-workers filled Salem First Presbyterian Church Thursday for her memorial service. McCall said she tries to remember the beautiful moments from her daughter's short life a faint smile as she slept, an appetite so voracious they dubbed her the "Milk Monster," and trip to the coast where she looked up with awe at the light streaming through the moss-covered trees. McCall and her husband loved nature and hoped to share that love with Evi. They summited 14,439-foot Mount Elbert in Colorado last year and took a picture of themselves smiling, holding a sonogram of Evi. "We wanted to climb mountains with her," she said. Follow Whitney Woodworth on Twitter: @wmwoodworth My 7 week old daughter, Evi, died of bacterial meningitis on March 17 after being treated at Salem Hospital. On the morning of March 15, I took her to the Salem Hospital ER, where they saw us, treated her with Tylenol and fluids, then discharged us (while she still had a fever) Ginger McCall (@gingermccall) March 21, 2019 At 6:08AM, after she was declared braindead and life support was withdrawn, she died in my arms. Ginger McCall (@gingermccall) March 21, 2019 Know the signs of meningitis and advocate strongly for yourself and your child. Ginger McCall (@gingermccall) March 21, 2019 This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Mom questions hospital after infant's meningitis death Bamako (AFP) - Mali's government on Sunday announced the sacking of senior military officers and the dissolution of an ethnic militia, a day after the massacre of more than 130 Fulani villagers, including women and children. Prime Minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga said new military chiefs would be named, and that the Dan Nan Ambassagou association, composed of Dogon hunters, had been dissolved. The dissolution of the militia was to send a clear message, Maiga told journalists: "The protection of the population will remain the monopoly of the state." Survivors of Saturday's attack said ethnic Dogon hunters carried out the deadly raid in Ogossagou, a village in central Mali inhabited by the Fulani community. While local attacks are fuelled by accusations of Fulani herders grazing cattle on Dogon land and disputes over access to land and water, the area is also troubled by jihadist influence. Maiga did not name the senior officers sacked, but defence ministry sources told AFP they were the Armed Forces Chief of General Staff M'Bemba Moussa Keita, and chiefs of the army and the air force. The prime minister's announcement came hours after an emergency meeting called by President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in response to Saturday's massacre. At least 136 men, women and children were killed in the attack, according to a "provisional toll", public television ORTM said late Sunday. The television showed images of burned huts and livestock and shell casings in the village. The victims were shot or hacked to death with machetes, a security source told AFP. A government delegation led by Justice Minister Tiena Coulibaly went to the site of the massacre Sunday. They were sent by the president to "tell the people of Ogossagou that what happened here is unacceptable and that it will not go unpunished," Coulibaly said. - 'Predictable attack' - The UN Children's Fund said "Malian children are paying a heavy price for the intensification of violence." Story continues "Growing insecurity since 2017 has led to an increase in murders, mutilations and the recruitment of children," UNICEF said. For its part, the European Union called for "immediate steps (including) the disarmament and dismantling of all militias" in Mali. Researcher Baba Dakono of the Bamako-based Institute for Security Studies told AFP the attack was "unprecedented" but "predictable" because of a weak state presence in the region. It was the deadliest attack since the end of the 2013 French-led military intervention that drove back jihadist groups who had taken control of northern Mali. - UN chief 'outraged' - The massacre took place as a delegation from the UN Security Council visited the Sahel region to assess the jihadist threat. "The secretary general is shocked and outraged" by the bloodshed, Antonio Guterres's spokesman said in a statement late Saturday. The UN chief called on the Malian authorities "to swiftly investigate it and bring the perpetrators to justice", the statement added. Guterres's spokesman said the UN mission in Mali, MINUSMA, provided air support to deter further attacks and assisted with the evacuation of the injured. The attack was launched at dawn on Saturday in the village near the border with Burkina Faso, in a district that has seen frequent inter-communal violence. Jihadist fighters have also emerged as a threat in central Mali in the past four years. A group led by radical Islamist preacher Amadou Koufa has recruited mainly from the Fulani community. Since then, there have been repeated clashes between the Fulani and Dogon and last year the violence claimed some 500 civilian lives, according to UN figures. In January, Dogon hunters were blamed for the killing of 37 people in another Fulani village, Koulogon, in the same region. The Fulani have repeatedly called for more protection from the authorities. The government in Bamako has denied their accusations that it turns a blind eye to -- or even encourages -- Dogon attacks on the Fulani. Once considered a beacon of democracy and stability in Africa, Mali in recent years has been dogged by a coup, civil war and Islamist terrorism. Extremists linked to Al-Qaeda took control of the desert north in early 2012, but were largely driven out in a French-led military operation launched in January 2013. In June 2015, Mali's government signed a peace agreement with some armed groups, but the jihadists remain active, and large tracts of the country remain lawless, The violence persists despite the presence of UN peacekeepers, a strong French military contingent and the creation of a five-nation military force in the region. The news that Special Counsel Robert Mueller has closed his investigation without recommending criminal charges against President Trump is a relief. It is not a surprise. Nor is it a surprise that the news has Trump antagonists clamoring for full disclosure of the special counsels final report. Mind you, when skeptics of the Trump-Russia investigation asked what the criminal predicate for it was, and on what basis the Obama administration had decided to monitor the opposition partys presidential campaign, we were admonished about the wages of disclosure the compromise of precious defense secrets, of deep-cover intelligence sources and methods. Why, to ask for such information was to be an insurrectionist seeking to destroy the FBI, the Justice Department, and the rule of law itself. Now, though, its only the uncharged president of the United States at issue, so disclose away! Well, if were going to have disclosure, fine. But lets have full disclosure: Muellers report in addition to the FISA applications; the memoranda pertinent to the opening and continuation of the investigation; the testimony in secret hearings; the scope memorandum Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein issued on August 2, 2017, after failing to cite a crime when he appointed Mueller lets have all of it. As far as the special counsels report goes, because of the way the regulations work (at least when the Justice Department deigns to follow them), we now have Muellers bottom line, but not his reasoning and the underlying facts. It is the opposite of the Trump oppositions preferred Roger Stone and George Papadopoulos scenario, where Muellers team spins pages and pages of Gee, sure seems like a lot of almost-collusion here before you flip to the end and find that theres no case just a campaign hanger-on who lied to an investigator long after the imaginary espionage conspiracy occurred. At the moment, we just have Muellers conclusion: There is no basis to indict the president for a crime not collusion, not obstruction, not false statements. The collusion-peddlers, who took great umbrage at the suggestion that VERIFIED FISA surveillance-warrant applications should be disclosed, now demand Muellers full report so they can get to the familiar work of obscuring the bottom line and spinning the spin. Story continues As weve noted before, unlike Mueller, who needs a crime to indict, Congress does not need a crime to impeach. The media-Democrat alliance does not need a crime to inflate Muellers not-quite-so stories into treason. To keep this carnival rolling on for another year and a half, they just need fodder for the narrative which is so predictably morphing from the collusion narrative to the impeachment narrative to the campaign narrative. Since before Robert Mueller was appointed, I have been contending that there was no legal basis for the appointment of a special counsel because there was no evidence that the president had committed a crime. For nearly a year and a half, Ive maintained that Mueller had nothing close to an actionable collusion case, that he had no prosecutable obstruction case, and that this exercise was an impeachment investigation geared more toward rendering Trump unelectable in 2020 than toward actually removing him from office. This was not to dismiss Russias provocations (which Democrats spent most of the Obama years ignoring, and when it comes to hacking which Obama himself spent the 2016 campaign mostly ignoring). It was always essential that the FBI use its counterintelligence authorities for their proper purpose to monitor and undermine foreign powers. It still is. But investigations targeting Americans for violating the law have to be premised on crime. Even FISA, which allows a court to authorize spying on an American citizen suspected of being an agent of a foreign power, requires the Justice Department and the FBI to show probable cause that the American is knowingly engaged in clandestine activity on behalf of the foreign power and that this clandestine activity is a probable violation of American criminal law. (See FISA, section 1801(b)(2) of Title 50, U.S. Code the definition of agent of a foreign power that applies to American citizens.) That is why, as we have repeatedly pointed out, collusion is a weasel word. Collusion is just association concerted activity that could be benign, sinister, or somewhere in between. It is not a crime to have relationships, even troubling ones, with Russians. Fortunately for the Clinton campaign, it is not a crime to attempt to gather opposition research from foreign sources even former British spies who purport to have Kremlin-connected sources. When Americans are involved, the only collusion that federal criminal and counterintelligence law trouble themselves over involves conspiracy (or its close cousin, aiding and abetting). There must be knowing complicity in a crime. If you dont have a good-faith basis to believe a crime has been committed, you dont have an investigation. Again, we were pointing that out before Mueller was appointed. In order to justify a special-counsel appointment, the regulations require two things: (1) the attorney general (or the deputy AG when, as here, the AG is recused) must be able to articulate the factual basis for a criminal investigation or prosecution; (2) that investigation or prosecution must create a conflict of interest so profound that the Justice Department cannot ethically conduct the investigation a lawyer must be brought in from outside the government. It is the alleged crime that determines what is to be investigated and whether there is a conflict. Here, the issue was solely the president. The Justice Department and FBI did not need a special counsel to conduct a counterintelligence investigation of Russia, or a criminal investigation of, say, Michael Flynn or Paul Manafort. Indeed, such investigations were underway before Muellers appointment. A special counsel would have been needed only for the president, on the rationale that the president cannot credibly be investigated by his own Justice Department. That is fine: The president is not above the law, and if there is evidence that he committed a crime, he should be investigated. But there has to be evidence that he committed a crime. There wasnt. Even in his shocking public announcement that the FBI was investigating the Trump campaign for possible coordination in Russias election interference, former FBI director James Comey never actually accused the president of a crime. While privately assuring Trump that he was not a suspect, Comey publicly stated that the FBI was conducting a counterintelligence probe. You can believe, as I do, that this was a pretext for a criminal investigation that lacked a crime; but for present purposes, thats irrelevant. The point is: There was no crime. In May 2017, in the wake of Trumps firing of Comey (which acting FBI director Andrew McCabe wrongly concluded could be the basis for an obstruction investigation), Rosenstein appointed Mueller. But, again, no crime was cited (Rosenstein obviously knew better than McCabe). Perforce, there was no need for a special counsel. In the Justice Department, the FBI not a prosecutor conducts counterintelligence investigations. And there was palpably no conflict of interest requiring an outside lawyer. How could there be? There was no factual basis for a crime, and you cant know whether there is a conflict unless you know what the suspected crime is. Plus, Mueller recruited his staff from the Justice Departments top echelon, and later transferred cases he brought to Justice Department components; these actions would have been inappropriate if the Justice Department had actually been conflicted. There was no need for a special counsel. And there was no case again, obviously. Mueller never charged any Trump associate with any kind of espionage conspiracy. As weve pointed out repeatedly, when prosecutors have a conspiracy case, they induce the cooperating accomplice witnesses to plead guilty to the conspiracy and implicate the other conspirators at the time of the plea. Mueller, instead, pled his putative accomplices to process crimes of lying to investigators, and to massive fraud crimes that had nothing to do with Trump or Russia. No competent prosecutor builds a case that way and Mueller is an exceptionally competent prosecutor. Moreover, wholly apart from Muellers evidence-based decision not to accuse Trump associates of complicity in Russias election interference, there are also Muellers two indictments of Russian operatives the hacking and troll-farm cases. These charges not only fail to suggest a conspiratorial link to the Trump campaign; they positively indicate that the Russian operatives neither needed nor wanted American partners. They wanted deniability. Their operations predated Trumps entry into the campaign, and some of them were anti-Trump in nature. Did Putin want Trump to win the election? Who knows? But there is no reason to think Putin (unlike any other informed observer) believed Trump would win the election. What Russia was aiming for is what Russia is always aiming for: to sow discord in American society and make it more difficult for the American government to pursue American interests. In any event, Muellers Russia indictments, like his charges against Trump associates, appeared to preclude the possibility of a Trump-Kremlin conspiracy. If Mueller had suddenly found Trump guilty of collusion, his prior prosecutions would have been incomprehensible. And, to reiterate another oft-made point, a federal prosecutor cannot properly charge an obstruction case against the president based on lawful exercises of the chief executives constitutional prerogatives. To be sure, a president may be cited for obstruction based on acts that the Constitution does not endorse and that corruptly tamper with evidence or witnesses. But because prosecutorial power is executive in nature, a president like a prosecutor is permitted by the Constitution to take actions that negatively affect an investigation. A president is permitted to weigh in on the merits of an investigation; he may fire the investigators (including the FBI director); he may issue pardons. Clearly, these powers can be abused, and if they are, Congress may impeach the president. But it is not the place of a prosecutor, an inferior federal officer, to second-guess the chief executives exercise of executive discretion just because the inferior officer suspects improper motivation. The president should suffer politically for inappropriately insinuating himself in law-enforcement activities; but it is not a crime for him to do so. Finally, unlike criminal investigations, which are conducted to vindicate the rule of law in judicial proceedings and which should be insulated from politics, counterintelligence investigations are done strictly for the president to assist him in carrying out his national-security duties. If a president were to shut down a counterintelligence investigation which Trump has never done in connection with Russia, even after the FBI director publicly portrayed Trumps campaign as a suspected collaborator that could not be an obstruction crime, even if it were a reckless decision. It is the politically accountable president, not the administrative state, who determines the nations intelligence needs. In sum, we have endured a two-year ordeal in which the president of the United States was forced to govern under a cloud of suspicion suspicion of being a traitor, of scheming with a foreign adversary to steal an election. This happened because the Obama administration which opened the probe of the Trump campaign, and which opted to use foreign counterintelligence spying powers rather than give Trump a defensive briefing about suspected Russian infiltration of his campaign methodically forced its suspicions about Trump into the public domain. It is not just that FISA warrants were sought on the basis of the Steele dossier, an uncorroborated Clinton-campaign opposition-research screed that the Obama Justice Department and FBI well knew was being peddled to the media at the same time. There was a patently premeditated stream of intelligence leaks depicting a corrupt Trump-Russia arrangement. After Hillary Clinton lost the 2016 election, Obama, after doing virtually nothing about Russian aggression for most of eight years, suddenly made a show of issuing sanctions, seizing Russian assets, and expelling Russian operatives. He then rushed the completion of an intelligence assessment that would ordinarily have taken months to complete, so that it would be issued on his watch; and presto: The public was told not only that Russia interfered in the campaign, but that Russia did so because Putin was trying to get Trump elected. (Of course, the public was not told that Obama had known what Russia was doing during the campaign, but concluded it was too trivial to warrant a response; and the public was not reminded that, just days before the election when Russias perfidy was well known to the Obama administration both Obama and Hillary Clinton chastised Trump for daring to suggest that an American presidential election could be rigged.) The intelligence assessment provided Obamas intelligence agencies with a pretext to brief President-elect Trump on the Steele dossier. That, in turn, gave the media previously skittish about the dossiers sensational, unverified allegations exactly the news hook they needed to publish it. Weeks later, as the FBI continued relying on the unverified Steele dossier in FISA-warrant applications, the FBI director, in public testimony, not only disclosed the existence of a classified counterintelligence investigation but gratuitously added that Trumps campaign was a subject of the probe and that an assessment would be made of whether any crimes were committed signaling to the world that Trump was a suspect in what would be, if proved, one of the most heinous crimes in American history. Then, finally, more leaks to the media triggered the appointment of a special counsel in the absence of actual evidence that the president had committed a crime. You want disclosure? Me too. But lets see all of it. Not just Muellers report. Lets see everything: all of the memoranda relevant to the opening of the investigation, all of the testimony at closed hearings, all of the FISA-warrant applications, all of Rosensteins scope memo. (A year ago, I surmised that scope memo is redacted because it relies on the Steele dossier as did the FISA-warrant application Rosenstein had approved just a few weeks earlier; anyone want to bet me on that?) If a victorious Democratic nominee had been subjected to such an investigation, there would never have been a special counsel, but we would already have chapter and verse on every investigative action. If were going to have accountability, lets have complete accountability. More from National Review After roughly two years, special counsel Robert Mueller's much-anticipated report on Russia's meddling in the 2016 election is set to be made public, with Democrats and Republicans sparring over how much of the 400-page document should see the light of day. The release comes a month after Mr Barr penned a letter to Congress detailing the basic findings of the report, and set off a firestorm of criticism from Democrats who claimed that America's lead law enforcement official was shielding Donald Trump after a lengthy and exhausting investigation. Still, he report's release could ultimately lay bare further truths behind the foreign nations efforts to impact American democracy, and those who helped along the way. The conclusion of Mr Muellers probe comes amid a particularly polarising period in American politics, with the nation enraptured with the slow drip of details that have emerged from the investigation and painted an alarming portrait of a vast network of individuals connected to Donald Trump and implicated in a range of crimes. But, it appears as though any prosecution of those crimes remains a distant possibility, after Mr Barr's letter indicating that the Justice Department found insufficient evidence of crimes by Mr Trump. He also wrote that there was no collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia a claim that comes after repeated revelations of contacts between the campaign and officials related to the Kremlin. Heres how we got here. 2017 17 May 2017 Mr Mueller is appointed to as special counsel by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. The appointment comes just over a week after Mr Trump fires former FBI Director James Comey for, among other things, investigating his campaigns connection to Russian meddling in the 2016 election. 14 June 2017 The special counsel investigation, started primarily to investigate Russian meddling in 2016, widens to include whether Mr Trump obstructed justice. Story continues The development follows after Mr Comey testified in Congress that Mr Trump had approached him to try and get him to let go of an investigation into former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who lid to Vice President Mike Pence about contacts he had with Russian diplomats before the presidents inauguration. 19 July 2017 Mr Trump warns Mr Mueller against investigation the Trump familys financial history, saying it would be crossing a red line. I think thats a violation, Trump tells the New York Times. Look, this is about Russia. 26 July 2017 Federal investigators raid the home of Paul Manafort, who was Mr Trumps 2016 campaign manager. 30 October 2017 Manafort and his associate Rick Gates are charged for financial and conspiracy crimes uncovered by the special counsels office. At the same time, a previous guilty plea by former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulous is revealed, showing that he misled investigators about contacts with Russian officials. Manafort and Gates saw charges related to their work for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party, bringing them tens of millions of dollars that they were accused of laundering. 1 December 2017 Flynn pleads guilty to willfully and knowingly [making] false, fictitious and fraudulent statements and representations to investigators about his contacts with former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. He agrees to cooperate with the special counsel investigation. 2018 16 February 2018 The special counsels office brings charges against 13 Russian nationals and three Russian groups for working to interfere in the 2016 election. The allegations include charges that these individuals began a concentrated campaign in 2014 to influence the election that included stealing the identities of Americans and creating false online personas. The efforts are tied to the Russian group the Internet Research Agency, which used social media platforms like Facebook to spread disinformation and divisive rhetoric ahead of the 2016 election. 20 February 2018 Former lawyer Alex van der Zwaag is charged by the special counsels office for making materially false, fictitious, and fraudulent statements and representations to federal investigations about contacts he had with Gates. 22 February 2018 Mr Muellers probe files further charges against Manafort and Gates in a 32-count superseding indictment. The charges include tax fraud, bank fraud conspiracy, and failing to file appropriate reports on foreign bank accounts. Court documents say: Manafort and Gates generated tens of millions of dollars in income as a result of their Ukraine work. From approximately 2006 through the present, Manafort and Gates engaged in a scheme to hide income from United States authorities, while enjoying the use of the money. Manafort is named in 23 of the indictments. 23 February 2018 Gates pleads guilty on conspiracy and false statement charges, and agrees to cooperate with investigators. 3 April 2018 The first criminal sentence is handed down in relation to the Mueller probe. Van der Zwaag is sentenced to 30 days in prison, and told to pay a $20,000 fine. 9 April 2018 Donald Trumps former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, becomes the target of a federal raid on his home, office, and hotel room. Investigators raided Cohens properties seeking evidence related to a criminal campaign finance violation Mr Trump and Cohen allegedly paid out near the end of the 2016 campaign to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to keep her silent about an alleged affair with the president in 2006. 8 June 2018 Manaforts longtime aide Konstantin Kilimnik is the target of new charges. He is accused of witness tampering. 13 July 2018 Mr Muellers team indicts 12 Russians in relation to the 2016 hack of the Democratic National Committees email servers. The 12 Russians are all members of Russian intelligence services. Former Trump adviser Roger Stone appears to be referenced in the charges, but is not named. 21 August 2018 Manafort is found guilty on eight charges of bank and tax fraud in federal court in Virginia. Meanwhile, Cohen pleads guilty in federal court on financial crimes. Cohen also pleads guilty to charges that have shaped up to be a major potential liability: The payments to Daniels, which totalled $130,000, to keep her silent about the alleged affair. That level of undisclosed help for a presidential campaign violates campaign finance rules, and Cohen indicates the payments were made at the discretion of a candidate for federal office. 7 September 2018 Papadopoulos is sentenced to 14 days in prison. 14 September 2018 Manafort pleads guilty to charges filed in federal court in Washington, DC. He agrees to cooperate with investigators. 26 October 2018 Mr Muellers team interviews former Trump strategist Steve Bannon about Mr Stone, who had made comments suggesting he knew about the DNC email hacks before they were made public by WikiLeaks. 7 November 2018 After Attorney General Jeff Sessions resigns, Matthew Whittaker is appointed as acting attorney general and prepares to take over oversight of the Mueller probe. Mr Whittaker faces questions about conflict of interest related to the probe for past critical remarks of Mr Muellers investigation. 20 November 2018 Mr Trump reportedly submits answers to written questions from Mr Muellers team. 29 November 2018 Cohen admits that he lied to Congress about talks to build a Trump branded real estate project in Moscow during the 2016 campaign. 4 December 2018 Mr Mueller recommends no jail for Flynn, touting his assistance with the Russia investigation. 7 December 2018 New York prosecutors in a case separate form Mr Muellers probe but arising from its evidence recommend substantial prison time for Cohen, saying that even though he is cooperating with the Russia probe his crimes were substantial. Mr Mueller writes a separate memo related to the case, saying that he is not taking a position on Cohens sentencing. Elsewhere, prosecutors file charges against Manafort for allegedly lying to them and breaching his plea agreement. 12 December 2018 Cohen receives a three year prison sentence. He is told to voluntarily surrender in March, and to pay $1.4 million in restitution, forfeit $500,000 and pay a $50,000 fine. 20 December 2018 The House Intelligence Committee votes to turn over transcripts from its interview with Roger Stone on Russian interference from earlier in the year. Mr Stone responds that the transcripts should be made public. Donald Trump refuses to say if he'll make Mueller report public 2019 25 January 2019 Mr Stone is arrested at his home in Florida, and faces federal charges. 15 February 2019 Mr Muellers team recommends 19.5 to 24.5 years in prison for Manaforts crimes. 22 February 2019 The judge overseeing Mr Stones case issues a full gag order after he posts a photo on social media that includes the judges photo and a crosshair symbol. 23 February 2019 Mr Muellers team files a sentencing memo for Manafort, calling him a hardened criminal who brazenly broke the law for decades before he was caught. 7 February 2019 Manafort is sentenced to just under four years in prison for his crimes prosecuted in Virginia, far less than the recommendation Mr Mueller submitted. 14 March 2019 Manafort receives an additional 43 months on his sentence for his crimes charged in Washington, bring his total prison time to 7.5 years. 22 March 2019 Mueller report sent to the attorney general's office. 24 March 2019 Mr Barr submits a 4-page summary of the Mueller report to Congress, saying that there was no collusion and that Mr Trump will not be charged with obstruction of justice. 27 March 2019 Mr Barr agrees to testify before Congress about the Mueller report "reasonably soon". 3 April 2019 The House Judiciary Committee, controlled by Democrats, votes to grant chairman Jerry Nadler the power to subpoena the full and un-redacted Mueller report, and instructs Mr Barr to testify before the committee before May 2, which he had planned. 7 April 2019 Mr Trump says he has not read the Mueller report, and calls it a "total waste of time". 9/10 April 2019 Mr Barr, testifying before Congress on the Justice Department's budget, is asked about the report, and says that he will deliver the redacted report within the week. He also says that the FBI likely spied on the Trump campaign. Washington (AFP) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller concluded his Russia meddling investigation Friday without recommending any new charges, but President Donald Trump, who faced obstruction and collusion allegations, could still be implicated in serious, even impeachable wrongdoing. Experts say the confidential report Mueller has submitted to Attorney General Bill Barr might still have evidence of wrongdoing that for Mueller didn't rise to criminal level but could still an impeachment investigation by Congress. But no one else has seen the report yet, so the focus is on what comes next in the process in the coming days and weeks. - First step: inform Congress Under his mandate, Mueller was to provide to Barr "a confidential report explaining the prosecution or declination decisions." Barr is obliged to summarize the report for the House and Senate judiciary committees. Barr said Friday he be able to deliver its "principal conclusions" for the committees this weekend. But Barr, a past critic of Mueller who Trump named to lead the Justice Department only in February, can divulge or withhold as much information as he wants in his own report. The special counsel regulations "give Barr lots of discretion about what to disclose to Congress and the public," said Andrew Coan, a University of Arizona law professor who has written about special prosecutors and presidents. Coan said Barr could release an abbreviated report that puts Trump in a good light rather than a very damaging one. "The selective release of exculpatory material is a possibility worth watching for." Barr also said he will study how much of Mueller's report he can release to the public. With public pressure immense, Barr said he is "committed to as much transparency as possible." David Rivkin, a conservative attorney who has followed the investigation closely, says he thinks there won't be much that Barr needs to hold back. Story continues "My sense is it's going to be a nothing-burger. It will be fairly anticlimactic," he said. "Mueller is a cautious person, he's not going to make recommendations about impeachment." - Step two: Congress reacts Parts or all of Barr's summary can be expected to leak within hours of its arrival on Capitol Hill. But Congress has already moved beyond that to demand more. The Democratic chairs of six committees in the House insisted Friday that the full Mueller report be released to the public. "We also expect the underlying evidence uncovered during the course of the Special Counsel's investigation will be turned over to the relevant Committees of Congress upon request," they said. The value of that could be huge -- or a dud. The report could be "much ado about nothing," wrote Marcy Wheeler, an independent journalist known for her knowledge of the case. One the other hand, it might be "a very damning report that doesn't amount to criminal behavior" -- something that Democrats in Congress could act upon even if Mueller did not. If Barr refuses to give more, it could spark a pitched battle between Congress and the White House. "It is likely to be weeks, and possibly months, before this issue is fully resolved, with much legal and political wrangling in the meantime," said Coan. - Step three: Congress investigates Whatever they get from Barr, Congress -- or at least the Democrats who control the House -- will continue to investigate Trump and his circle. Their reason: through criminal cases against 34 individuals, including six former Trump aides, Mueller sketched out a picture of scores of willing contacts between the Trump campaign and the Russians and a readiness to exchange "dirt" on Trump's election rival Hillary Clinton. And Trump's behavior throughout the investigation has, many lawyers said, met most definitions of obstruction, even if Mueller didn't see a provable case. If there is more to that picture, Democrats want it out in public, and may believe that further investigation is required beyond the parameters that Mueller set for himself. Both Mueller and Barr can be expected to be summoned to testify, both behind closed doors where they can discuss intelligence matters, and in public. For the best part of two years, America and the rest of the world have waited for Robert Mueller to complete his report into Russias alleged interference in the 2016 election and possible collusion between Moscow and the Trump campaign. Now he has done so, and attorney general William Barr has said he could update members of congress with details as early as this weekend. The special counsel has submitted to me today a confidential report explaining the prosecution or declination decisions he has reached, he on Friday wrote to members of Congress, including Republicans Lindsey Graham and Doug Collins, and Democrats Jerrold Nadler and Dianne Feinstein, the chairs and ranking members of the two judiciary committees. I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. He added: Separately, I intend to consult with deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein and special counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law. So after all that what happens next? All eyes on Bill Barr: Barr, who oversees the investigation, has said he wants to release as much information as he can about the inquiry, as is consistent with the law, including the Special Counsel regulations, and the Departments long-standing practices and policies. I remain committed to as much transparency as possible, and I will keep you informed as to the status of my review. Barr has said he envisions two reports, and only one for congressional and public consumption. Barr has said he takes seriously the shall be confidential part of the regulations governing Muellers report. He has noted that department protocol says internal memos explaining charging decisions should not be released. During his confirmation hearing, Barr said he will draft, after Mueller turns in his report, a second one for the chairman and ranking members of the House and Senate Judiciary committees. But here again, the regulations provide little guidance for what such a report would say. Story continues The attorney general is required only to say the investigation has concluded and describe or explain any times when he or Rosenstein decided an action Mueller proposed was so inappropriate or unwarranted that it should not be pursued. Pressure: Pressure is already mounting from Democrats for it to be made completely public. All of the major Democrats running for 2020 made such demands, as has Democratic senator Mark Mark Warner, vice chairman of the Senate intelligence committee. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, sent out a joint statement calling on Mr Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public, they said. Some senior Republicans have also demanded the report be made public. Senator Chuck Grassley said releasing the report would to finally put an end to the speculation and innuendo that has loomed over this administration since its earliest days. White House: Mr Trump has yet to comment on the report. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement: The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. Mr Trumps lawyers lawyers say they were pleased that the special counsel has delivered his report. Rudy Giuliani and Jay Sekulow issued their joint statement within minutes of Barrs letter to key members of Congress. Were pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the attorney general pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps. But Muellers report, still confidential, sets the stage for big public fights to come, including in all likelihood, in federal court. The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. Sarah Sanders (@PressSec) March 22, 2019 Its not clear how much of the report will become public or provided to Congress. It is likely the White House will claim executive privilege permits the president to determine how transparent to be. Indeed, Mr Giuliani has also raised the prospect Trump legal team could try to invoke executive privilege to prevent the disclosure of any confidential conversation the president has had with his aides. This week, asked by reporters whether it should be made public, Mr Trump said he would be happy if the report is made public. Let it come out, let people see it, thats up to the attorney general....and well see what happens, he said. Legal cloud over the president. Mr Trump still has to contend with state and federal investigations in New York even with the Russia investigation complete. Some legal observers have ling said the greater threat to the presidency could stem from ongoing investigations in New York. Federal prosecutors in Manhattan are still investigating hush money payments that former Trump attorney Michael Cohen arranged to women who claimed affairs with Trump. Another inquiry is looking at the presidents inaugural committee and whether it received illegal foreign contributions. The US Justice Department has held for nearly a half-century that a sitting president is immune from indictment. But he could be charged after leaving office. Mr Trump has denied breaking any laws. Impeachment? As Mr Muellers report was handed in, a spokesperson for the Department of Justice said the special counsel was not recommending any further indictments. It is possible some indictments remain sealed and could be unsealed later. Democrats will now have to wait and see the details of the report to decide whether it has found the president has obstructed justice or acted in a way that would merit them seeking his impeachment. Democrats are very cautious of taking such a step, aware as they are of the potential political backlash. With inputs from Associated Press Robert Mueller has completed his Trump-Russia investigation without prosecuting additional associates of the president, and has reported his findings to William Barr, the US attorney general. Related: What does the Mueller report say and what does it mean for Trump? Barr said in a letter to senior members of Congress on Friday afternoon he had received a report from Mueller, the special counsel, and expected to be able to inform them of its main conclusions as soon as this weekend. The attorney general said he would consult Mueller and Rod Rosenstein, the deputy attorney general, to determine what information from the report could be released to the public . I remain committed to as much transparency as possible, Barr wrote, adding that he was constrained by law and justice department rules. Senior Democrats and Republicans called for Barr release the report in full. Justice department officials told reporters Mueller had not recommended any further indictments based on his findings, ending intense speculation that more members of Trumps circle would be prosecuted. Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer, the Democratic leaders in Congress, urged the attorney general not to give Trump a sneak preview of Muellers findings or to allow the White House to interfere in decisions on what information to release. The White House press secretary, Sarah Sanders, said Trump had not been briefed on the report. She said: The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. Muellers move brought to an end a sprawling criminal and counterintelligence inquiry that has dominated the first two years of Trumps presidency, prompting furious attacks from Trump and his allies. The investigation led to the criminal convictions of Trumps campaign chairman, deputy chairman, personal attorney and two policy advisers. The presidents longtime friend and adviser Roger Stone was also indicted. Muellers team secured criminal indictments of others, including more than two dozen Russians accused of involvement in Moscows interference in the 2016 US election, which US intelligence agencies concluded was aimed at helping Trump win. Story continues Feverish anticipation of the Mueller report had grown for months. Critics of Trump hoped for a full public account of any links between his presidential campaign team and the Russian operation, while allies of the president claimed the report would prove there had been no collusion. Background Robert S Mueller III, 74, is a former FBI director who was appointed by George W Bush and held over by Barack Obama beyond his 10-year term. The term extension required special congressional action which the Senate approved 100-0. Previously, Mueller held two different US attorney posts and was an assistant attorney general in the George HW Bush administration. Special counsel Mueller was appointed special counsel in May 2017, eight days after Trump fired FBI director James Comey. A special counsel is a prosecutor appointed in extraordinary circumstances or in cases of conflicts of interest within the justice department. In this case, there was a need for someone to investigate the Russian matter who was not appointed by or beholden to Trump. Muellers team of 17 lawyers operates independently of, but (ideally) in cooperation with, Congress, which has three committees conducting investigations in parallel to Mueller. Mueller is expected to submit a report to Congress and may bring criminal charges separately. Mueller has a sizeable budget and an open-ended term. He is specifically authorized to investigate any links and/or coordination between the Russian government and individuals associated with the campaign of President Donald Trump plus any matters that may arise directly from the investigation. He has the power to prosecute federal crimes. Can he be replaced? In theory, William Barr, the new attorney general, could fire Mueller. Barr, who once criticised Mueller's case as fatally misconceived, was asked during his confirmation hearing if he would fire the special counsel without good cause and replied: "I would not carry out that instruction." Although, if Trump wanted to fire Mueller, and Barr was unwilling, Trump could replace Barr. Trump's view Trump has said Mueller is very, very good friends with [James] Comey, which is very bothersome but also said Robert Mueller is an honorable man. It was not clear on Friday how much detail Muellers report contained. He was required by law to tell Barr only why his team of investigators decided to prosecute those people who were charged and declined to pursue others. It is ultimately up to Barr, who was confirmed as Trumps attorney general only last month, to decide how much information unearthed by Mueller may be disclosed to Congress and the public. Barr was obliged only to tell the members of Congress that Mueller has completed his work, and to note any actions proposed by Mueller that Barr blocked. Barr said in his letter there had been no such overruling by the attorney general. During confirmation hearings in January, Barr told senators that while he believed it was very important for the public to be informed of Muellers findings, he would aim provide as much transparency as I can consistent with the law. The US justice department typically does not disclose the identities of people who were investigated but not charged. James Comey, then FBI director, notoriously broke with that convention in 2016 to say publicly Hillary Clinton would not be prosecuted over her use of a private email server while secretary of state. Barr reported on Friday to the senior Republicans and Democrats on the Senate and House judiciary committees Senators Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Dianne Feinstein of California, and Representatives Jerrold Nadler of New York and Doug Collins of Georgia. Collins said he expected Barr to release the report to their committee and to the public without delay. Related: What do you want to know about the Mueller report? Guardian reporters answer your questions Mueller, a former FBI director and senior justice department official, was appointed special counsel by Rod Rosenstein, the deputy attorney general, in May 2017. His appointment followed the firing of Comey by Trump. He was mandated to investigate any links and/or coordination between the Russian government and individuals associated with the campaign of President Donald Trump and anything arising from that investigation. Trump repeatedly denounced the inquiry as a witch-hunt and took several steps that appeared aimed at obstructing the investigation. He reportedly had to be talked out of firing Mueller. Mueller charged Russian operatives with stealing emails from the accounts of senior Democrats and releasing them via WikiLeaks, the anti-secrecy website, disrupting the Clinton campaign. Other Russians were charged with mounting an online disinformation campaign aimed at swaying American voters. Mitch McConnell, the Republican Senate leader, said Muellers findings should be used to guard against future interference from foreign states. Related: Who is Robert Mueller, the 'pain in the ass' who took on Trump? Many Republicans have long believed that Russia poses a significant threat to American interests, he said. I hope the special counsels report will help inform and improve our efforts to protect our democracy. Advisers to former president Barack Obama have said that after secret talks during the 2016 campaign, McConnell refused to join a bipartisan public statement condemning Russias actions, claiming it was an effort to undermine Republicans. Trumps campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, was convicted on a series of financial crimes and later admitted to conspiracy charges as part of a plea deal. Mueller tore up the deal when Manafort continued lying to investigators. Manaforts deputy, Rick Gates, admitted to lying to investigators the same crime admitted by Trump campaign advisers Michael Flynn and George Papadopoulos. Flynn had been Trumps first White House national security adviser. Stone, a longtime friend and adviser to Trump, is charged with obstructing justice, lying to Congress and witness tampering. Special counsel Robert Mueller did not recommend any further charges as he submitted his long-awaited report on his investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 US election. The findings, which remain confidential, were delivered to attorney general William Barr, via the office of his deputy Rod Rosenstein who has been overseeing the inquiry. Mr Barr, who was chosen for the role by Donald Trump last year, will decide how much of it to share with Congress. In a letter to congressional leaders he said that he thought he would be able to inform them of the key findings this weekend. He planned to write his own account of the findings, he added. I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, he wrote, pledging a commitment to transparency. With no details released at this point, it is not known whether Mr Muellers report answers the core questions of his investigation: did Mr Trumps campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favour of the celebrity businessman? Also, did Mr Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? However, a senior Justice Department official said Mr Mueller did not recommend any further indictments, suggesting no more criminal charges will be brought against the president or his associates. The White House said it had not seen or been briefed on the special counsels document. What happens next is up to attorney general Barr, said spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. Mr Trump was at his Mar-a-Lago property in Florida when the Justice Department announced delivery of the report. Senior Democrats Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer said it was imperative to make the full report public. The American people have a right to the truth, the house speaker and senate minority leader said in a joint statement. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public. Story continues Democrats also expressed concern that Mr Trump would try to get a sneak preview of the findings. Mr Barr has said he wants to make as much of the report public as possible, but any efforts to withhold details will prompt a tussle between the Justice Department and politicians who may subpoena Mr Mueller and his investigators to testify before Congress. Such a move by Democrats would probably be vigorously contested by the Trump administration. The conclusion of Mr Muellers investigation does not remove legal peril for the president as he faces a separate Justice Department investigation in New York into hush money payments during the campaign to two women who say they had sex with him years before the election. He has also been implicated in a potential campaign finance violation by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who plead guilty to his role in the payments and alleged that the president asked him to arrange the transactions. Federal prosecutors, also in New York, have been investigating foreign contributions made to the presidents inaugural committee. Mr Mueller also secured convictions against Mr Trumps former campaign chairman Paul Manafort who cheated banks and dodged his taxes and his national security adviser Michael Flynn, who lied about his Russian contacts, and a campaign aide who misled the FBI about his knowledge of stolen emails. Another Trump confidant, Roger Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied about his pursuit of Russian-hacked emails ultimately released by WikiLeaks. Mr Trump has increasingly tried to undermine the probe by calling it a witch hunt and repeatedly proclaiming there was No Collusion with Russia. But the president also took certain acts as president that caught Mr Muellers attention and have been scrutinised for possible obstruction. Although the president criticised Mr Muellers team, his White House and campaign produced thousands of documents for the special counsel, and dozens of his aides were interviewed. The president submitted written answers to Mr Mueller regarding the Russia investigation, but he refused to be interviewed. Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said Friday he is suing his main election rivals for libel, over their comments alleging grave misconduct linked to the purchase of submarines from Germany. Israel's deal with German industrial giant ThyssenKrupp has been the subject of a lengthy investigation, with police saying in November there was evidence to charge one of Netanyahu's lawyers. The prime minister was questioned as a witness and is not a suspect, although the case has been dragged up again by his rivals amid fierce election campaigning. Netanyahu's threat of legal action centres on the newly-minted Blue and White alliance, whose head Benny Gantz claimed the premier profited by 16 million shekels ($4.4 million) from his stock rising on the strength of the submarine deal. Another Blue and White member, Moshe Yaalon, was asked on Wednesday if he considered Netanyahu had betrayed Israel and its security over the affair. "The matter is so important that it could reach as far as treason," Yaalon replied, speaking on Israeli public radio. "Let's have it investigated." Writing on Facebook, Netanyahu said Friday he had instructed his lawyers to sue Gantz and Yaalon. The premier would also have filed suit against the Blue and White party's co-leader Yair Lapid, he said, but as a member of the outgoing parliament he had immunity. "The lies of Lapid, Gantz and Yaalon cross a red line on the most sensitive issues concerning Israel's security," he wrote. "So I instructed my lawyers to sue them for libel." Blue and White's spokeswoman did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but Lapid fought back with a Facebook video clip of his own. "I am waiving my immunity, sue me!" he challenged Netanyahu. "You know very well that neither I, Benny Gantz nor Yaalon... called you 'traitor' regarding the submarine affair." Netanyahu is already under threat of indictment for corruption in separate cases and is facing stiff competition from Blue and White ahead of April 9 polls. Oslo (AFP) - Emergency services said on Saturday they had begun airlifting 1,300 passengers from a cruise ship in trouble off the Norwegian coast. The Viking Sky cruise ship sent an SOS message due to "engine problems in bad weather", southern Norway's rescue centre said on Twitter, while police reported the passengers would be evacuated by helicopter. "The boat only has one working engine and the winds are rather strong. Therefore we would prefer to have the passengers on land rather than on board the ship," police chief Tor Andre Franck said. By 4:30 pm (1430 GMT) 100 people had been evacuated, with four helicopters involved in the airlift. "It will take time to evacuate everyone," Franck said. The incident occurred mid-afternoon two kilometres (1.2 miles) off the More og Romsdal area of western Norway. The cruise ship had been en route from Tromso to Stavanger. "It is dangerous to encounter engine problems in these waters which hide numerous reefs," Franck added. Coastguard and sea rescue boats had also been sent to the area and a reception centre set up on shore to accommodate the evacuees. Another vessel had been despatched to try to tow the Viking Sky into port, possibly removing the need for the airlift. "The boat is stable. It has dropped anchor and one of its engines is working," said a rescue centre spokesman, Borghild Eldoen. "For the moment everything appears to be going well," added another spokesman, Einar Knutsen. In most places, state lawmakers and governors are responsible for drawing and approving maps for U.S. and state legislative districts following each U.S. Census. But a growing number of states are shifting the task to independent or bipartisan commissions, or making other changes intended to reduce the likelihood of partisan gerrymandering. Here's a look at some of the states using commissions or other nontraditional methods for the next round of redistricting, after the 2020 Census. ALASKA A five-member commission draws districts for the state House and Senate under a 1998 amendment to the state constitution. Two members are appointed by the governor and one each by the presiding officers of the House and Senate and the chief justice of the Supreme Court. Districts must be compact, contiguous and contain "a relatively integrated socio-economic area." Alaska has only one congressional district. ARIZONA Congressional and state legislative districts are drawn by a five-member commission established under a ballot measure approved by voters in 2000. Twenty-five potential redistricting commissioners are nominated by the same state panel that handles appeals court nominees. The Legislature's two Republican leaders choose two commissioners from 10 Republican candidates, and the two Democratic leaders chose two from their party's 10 nominees. Those four commissioners then select the fifth member, who must be an independent and serves as panel chairman. The constitution says "competitive districts" should be drawn so long as that doesn't detract from the goals of having compact, contiguous districts that respect communities of interest. CALIFORNIA Voters approved a pair of ballot measures, in 2008 and 2010, creating a 14-person commission to draw congressional and state legislative districts. A state auditor's panel takes applications and selects 60 potential redistricting commissioners 20 Democrats, 20 Republicans and 20 others. The state Assembly and Senate majority and minority leaders each can eliminate two nominees from each political category. Eight redistricting commissioners three Democrats, three Republicans and two unaffiliated members are randomly selected from the remaining pool of candidates. Those commissioners then select an additional two Democrats, two Republicans and two unaffiliated members. Approving a map requires nine votes, including three from each political category of members. The constitution says the districts should be compact and keep cities, counties and communities of interest in tact to the extent possible. Story continues COLORADO Congressional and state legislative districts will be drawn by a 12-person commission, under a pair of constitutional amendments approved by voters last November. The commission will consist of four Republicans, four Democrats and four independents selected from a pool of applicants. Half will be chosen randomly and the rest by a judicial panel. Nonpartisan legislative staff will draft proposed maps for the commission's approval, which will require at least eight votes including two from independents. The state Supreme Court will then review the maps to determine whether legal criteria were followed. The districts must be compact, preserve communities of interest and "maximize the number of politically competitive districts." HAWAII Congressional and state legislative districts are drawn by a nine-person commission. The majority and minority party leaders in the House and Senate each appoint two commissioners. Those eight then pick a ninth commissioner. If they can't agree, the ninth member is appointed by the state Supreme Court. Districts cannot be drawn to "unduly favor a person or political faction." IDAHO A six-member commission is responsible for drawing both congressional and state legislative districts. Two-thirds of the commissioners must vote to approve a map. The majority and minority party leaders in each legislative chamber each select one person to serve on the commission; the state chairmen of the Republican and Democratic parties also each select a commissioner. Mapmakers should avoid "oddly shaped" districts and preserve "traditional neighborhoods and local communities of interest." IOWA The nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency draws maps for congressional and state legislative districts, which are submitted to the Legislature for approval. Districts must consist of "convenient contiguous territory" and be reasonably compact. Districts cannot be drawn to favor a political party, incumbent or other person or group. MICHIGAN Under a constitutional amendment approved by voters last November, congressional and state legislative districts will be drawn by a 13-member citizens' commission. It will consist of four Democrats, four Republicans and five independents randomly selected by the secretary of state from among applicants. Approval of districts will require a majority vote with support of at least two Democrats, two Republicans and two independents. If that fails, each commissioner would submit a plan and rank their options by preference, with the highest-ranked plan prevailing. In case of a tie, the secretary of state would randomly select the final plan. Districts must be compact, contiguous, limit splitting of counties and cities, "reflect the state's diverse population and communities of interest," not favor or disfavor incumbents, and not provide a disproportionate advantage to any political party. MISSOURI A constitutional amendment approved by voters last November will require a new nonpartisan state demographer to draft maps for state House and Senate districts. The demographer is to design districts to achieve "partisan fairness" and "competitiveness" as determined by statistical measurements using the results of previous elections. Districts also shall be contiguous and limit splits among counties and cities. Compact districts are preferred but rank last among the criteria. The maps will be submitted to a pair of existing bipartisan commissions for approval. The governor will appoint a 10-member commission for the Senate districts, choosing five Republicans and five Democrats from among nominees submitted by the state parties. For the House, the governor will appoint an equal bipartisan commission of 16 members from nominees submitted by Republican and Democratic congressional district committees. Congressional districts still will be drawn by the state Legislature. MONTANA A five-person commission draws state legislative districts and would also draw congressional districts if Montana's population grows enough to have more than one. The majority and minority leaders of each legislative chamber appoint one member each. Those four then select a fifth member, who serves as chairman. Districts must be compact and contiguous. NEW JERSEY Congressional districts are drawn by a 13-member commission, which requires a majority vote to approve a map. The majority and minority leaders of each legislative chamber and the chairmen of the state's two major parties each appoint two members. Those 12 select one more member. A separate 10-member commission draws state legislative districts, with the chairmen of the two major political parties each appointing five members. If they can't agree on a plan, the Supreme Court appoints an 11th member. State legislative districts must be contiguous and as compact as possible. NEW YORK - Under a constitutional amendment approved by voters in 2014, a 10-member commission will draft districts for both Congress and the state Legislature. The majority and minority leaders of each chamber each appoint two members to the commission. Those eight members then select the other two commissioners. Their maps are submitted to the Legislature for approval. Districts shall be compact and contiguous and shall not be drawn to discourage competition or to favor incumbents, particular candidates or political parties. OHIO A pair of voter-approved amendments will require minority-party support to enact new congressional and state legislative districts that last a full decade. Under a plan approved in 2015, state legislative districts will be drawn by a seven-member commission consisting of the governor, auditor, secretary of state and one person appointed by each of the majority and minority party leaders in the House and Senate. To last 10 years, the maps need support from at least two members of each party; otherwise, they are valid for just four years. For congressional districts, voters approved a measure last May that requires the Legislature to pass a redistricting plan by a three-fifths majority with the support of at least half the members of the majority and minority parties. If that fails, districts are to be drawn by the seven-member commission and approval requires support from at least two members of each party. If that fails, the Legislature may pass a plan by a three-fifths vote with the support of at least one-third of the majority and minority party members. If that fails, the Legislature may pass a plan by a majority, but it would remain in effect for only four years. PENNSYLVANIA State legislative districts are drawn by a five-member commission under a procedure dating back several decades. The majority and minority leaders of the House and Senate each appoint one member, and those four then select a fifth person to serve as chairman. If they cannot agree on a chairman, the Supreme Court appoints one. Districts must be compact and contiguous and respect city boundaries. Congressional districts are drawn by the Legislature. UTAH Congressional and state legislative districts will be drawn by a seven-member commission, under a constitutional amendment approved by voters last November. The commission will be composed of one gubernatorial appointee, two appointees by Republican legislative leaders, two appointees by Democratic legislative leaders and two political independents appointed by majority and minority party legislative leaders. The commission's recommended maps will be submitted to the Legislature for final approval. Districts shall be compact and contiguous, preserve communities of interest and not favor or disfavor incumbents. Partisan voting records may not be considered. VERMONT A commission submits plans for state House and Senate districts to the state Legislature, which can approve or change them. The governor appoints one commissioner from each of the state's political parties that have had at least three state lawmakers for six of the past 10 years. The chairs of those parties appoint one member each. The chief justice appoints the committee chair. Districts should be compact and contiguous and recognize "patterns of geography, social interaction, trade, political ties and common interests." WASHINGTON Congressional and state legislative districts are drawn by a five-person commission under a constitutional amendment approved by voters in 1983. The majority and minority party leaders in both legislative chambers each appoint one commissioner, who cannot be an officeholder or lobbyist. Those four members then select a fifth, nonvoting member who serves as chairman. Legislators can amend the commission's maps with a two-thirds vote of each chamber, but their changes can shift no more than 2 percent of the population among districts. Districts should be composed of "convenient, contiguous and compact territory" and not drawn to purposely "favor or discriminate against any political party or group." Panama City (AFP) - Panama's ex-president Ricardo Martinelli faces up to 21 years in jail for spying on political foes, reporters and business leaders while in power, prosecutors said Friday. Martinelli created and directed "an organized state apparatus" for domestic espionage when in office from 2009-2014, said prosecutor Ricaurte Gonzalez. The then-president targeted about 150 individuals with illegal communications tapping -- done with no court order, the prosecutor said. Those critical of Martinelli seemed to have drawn his closest scrutiny, becoming targets for his taps, Gonzalez added. Attorney Carlos Carrillo of Martinelli's legal team however insisted that it was impossible to link Martinelli himself with the offences of which he has been accused. Vatican City (AFP) - Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Chilean Cardinal Ricardo Ezzati, who had agreed to step down along with his country's bishops over sexual abuse cases and their cover-up, the Vatican said Saturday. Ezzati, archbishop of Santiago, is the seventh senior Chilean church official to resign over a scandal which the pope insists must be remedied. To date, Ezzati, the Catholic Church's highest official in Chile, has maintained his right to silence although he has promised to cooperate with the investigation into his activities -- if the authorities first clear him, insisting he is innocent. The latest move in the Vatican's attempts to deal with abuse within the higher echelons of the Roman Catholic Church comes just days after disgraced Australian Cardinal George Pell received a jail term for sexually abusing two choirboys. Pell, 77, and the former Vatican number three, has maintained his innocence and says he plans to appeal his conviction on five offences including oral rape and molestation of the boys in 1996-1997. The decision over Ezzati also comes with Chilean media reporting that the nation's court of appeal had Friday confirmed he would face trial for not denouncing sexual abuse by three priests. It also comes after Argentine Pope Francis last Monday rejected the resignation of French cardinal Philippe Barbarin, who was handed a six-month suspended jail sentence earlier this month for failing to report sex abuse by a priest under his authority. Barbarin has appealed. The pontiff stated last month that "no abuse must ever be covered up, as has happened in the past" as the Church struggles to restore trust in its efforts to fight child abuse given the slew of abuse cases. In October, Francis did, reluctantly, accept the resignation of US cardinal and Washington Archbishop Donald Wuerl, accused of helping to cover up hundreds of child abuse cases in his former diocese. And in February the pontiff defrocked former cardinal American Theodore McCarrick, 88, who a Vatican court found guilty of sexually abusing a teenager 50 years ago. McCarrick became the first cardinal ever to be defrocked for sex abuse. Vatican City (AFP) - Pope Francis on Saturday accepted the resignation of Chilean cardinal Ricardo Ezzati, who agreed to step down after being accused of covering up sexual abuse by priests, the Vatican said. Ezzati, archbishop of Santiago, is the seventh senior Chilean church official to resign over a scandal which the pope insists must be remedied. To date, 77-year-old Ezzati, the Catholic Church's highest official in Chile, has insisted he is innocent. He has promised to cooperate with the investigation into his activities -- if the authorities first clear him. "It's not enough for to say, 'You're an accomplice.' It needs to be proven. And I am going forward with my head held high," Ezzati said in a declaration to Chilean media. He presented his resignation to the pope in May 2018 along with all of Chile's 34 bishops. So far the pontiff has accepted seven of the resignations. The latest move in the Vatican's attempts to deal with abuse within the higher echelons of the Roman Catholic Church comes just days after disgraced Australian Cardinal George Pell received a jail term for sexually abusing two choirboys. Pell, formerly the Vatican number three, has maintained his innocence and says he plans to appeal his conviction on five offences including oral rape and molestation of the boys in 1996-1997. - Moves to strip citizenship - The decision over Ezzati was made after Chile's court of appeal on Friday confirmed he would face trial for not calling out sexual abuse by three priests, one of whom was his close aide. Ezzati was made a bishop by Pope John Paul II in 1996. He served as the bishop for Santiago from 2010, and four years later Pope Francis made him a cardinal. Born in Italy, Ezzati took Chilean nationality in 2006. But in January a parliamentary commission voted to strip him of that citizenship, a measure that still needs to be ratified by both legislative chambers. In announcing Ezzati's resignation, the Vatican on Saturday said the pope named bishop Celestino Aos Braco, who was serving in Copiapo, a city 800 kilometers (500 miles) north of the capital, as the apostolic administrator for the Santiago archdiocese. Story continues Aos Braco was one among the bishops who offered to resign in May. Chile is one of the countries most caught up in the widening scandal of sexual wrongdoing by priests. The pope, who is Argentine, was accused of not taking appropriate steps after a controversial visit he made in January 2018. Afterwards, Francis listened more acutely to Chilean victims and made an apology before summoning all of Chile's bishops to the Vatican in May 2018 for discussions that led to their resignation letters. One of the victims, Jaime Concha, told AFP that the ousting of Ezzati "is late... and not enough." - French cardinal decision - The pope's action on Ezzati contrasted with his rejection last Monday of a resignation offered by French cardinal Philippe Barbarin, who was handed a six-month suspended jail sentence earlier this month for failing to report sex abuse by a priest under his authority. Barbarin has appealed. Vatican-watchers noted that the matter related to Barbarin occurred under his predecessors and it was likely that the pope did not want to create a precedent even as he seeks to clean up historic scandals. The pontiff stated last month that "no abuse must ever be covered up, as has happened in the past" as the Church struggles to restore trust in its efforts to fight child abuse, given the slew of cases. In October, Francis did, reluctantly, accept the resignation of US cardinal and Washington Archbishop Donald Wuerl, accused of helping to cover up hundreds of child abuse cases in his former diocese. And in February the pontiff defrocked former cardinal American Theodore McCarrick, 88, who a Vatican court found guilty of sexually abusing a teenager 50 years ago. McCarrick became the first cardinal ever to be defrocked for sex abuse. Every year, Apple holds two big events that tend to dominate the tech news cycle for weeks on end. Of course, theres WWDC, Apples annual developer conference which takes place every June. And last but not least, theres Apples annual iPhone event where we see the latest and greatest in Apple hardware. For years, these were the two major Apple events to keep tabs on, even though the company would sporadically sprinkle in a few iPad or Mac oriented hardware events along the way. Fast forward to 2019 and the tech landscape has shifted dramatically. These days, the smartphone market is arguably saturated with impressive devices that arent all that different from one another. Sure, some of the foldable phones weve seen are intriguing, but they hardly seem like polished products ready to revolutionize the industry. With that said, Apple is decidedly preparing for a life beyond the iPhone. While iPhone sales arent going to evaporate, its no secret that year-over-year sales have been trending downward. In light of that, Apple a company always in search of new revenue streams is poised to embrace the world of services; which brings us, of course, to Apples forthcoming media event on Monday, March 25. Related stories Last-minute WSJ report details pricing for Apple news and video bundles iPhone 11 may finally deliver a long overdue feature Apple's new gaming service might be announced Monday, and it's reportedly not what we thought Set to take place this Monday at 10 AM Pacific Time at the Steve Jobs Theater in Cupertino, Apple is expected to unveil two brand new services to accompany the companys increasingly popular Apple Music streaming service. There have been a number of scattered rumors regarding Apples upcoming services, so we thought it was high time to sift past the noise and hone in on what we expect Apple to introduce at its upcoming media event. Story continues Without question, the most intriguing rumor surrounding Apples media event centers on the companys plans in the TV space. Over the years, Apple has made no secret of its intention to make a splash in the TV space, with Tim Cook often noting rather vaguely that the company was intent to keep pulling this string and see where it takes us. For a while, there were rumblings that Apple was going to release a TV service comprised of a skinny bundle of select cable channels. Ultimately, word surfaced that Apple abandoned this plan after failing to secure deals to make such a service viable. Instead, Apple a few years ago decided to invest a lot of money in developing and acquiring original content. As it stands now, Apple is currently working on rolling out more than two dozen original programs, though its not entirely clear how Apple plans to make this content available to iOS users. From what weve gathered, Apples originals will be provided to iOS users for free and will be released alongside a new subscription plan. While some previously speculated that Apple was aiming to take on streaming giants like Netflix and Hulu, a recent report from Recode revealed that Apples TV plans for the time being will be a lot less ambitious. Instead of rolling out a traditional streaming service, rumor has it that Apple will offer users a subscription bundle where they can sign up for multiple premium channels such as HBO and Showtime at a price point that would be less than the cost of signing up for each one individually. It remains to be see how many channels will be available as part of this new subscription offering, but its worth noting that Netflix will not be apart of it. Instead, Apples main focus at least for now will be helping other people sell streaming video subscriptions and taking a cut of the transaction. Apple may also sell its own shows, at least as part of a bundle of other services. But for now, Apples original shows and movies should be considered very expensive giveaways, not the core product. Interestingly, Apples subscription ambitions extend beyond TV and also encompass magazines and newspapers. According to a number of credible reports which weve seen spring up over the past few months, Apple on Monday will introduce a news subscription service that will allow users to play a flat monthly fee and enjoy content from a number of publications, including The Wall Street Journal. Notably, some major publications refused to hop on board with Apple due to disagreements over revenue sharing. Specifically, The New York Times and The Washington Post will not be part of the subscription service. Rumor has it that Apples news subscription service may be priced around $9 $10 a month. The New York Times reported the following earlier in the month: The service, described by some as a Netflix for news, will offer access to a new paid tier of the Apple News app. Through that tier, readers will be able to consume articles from hundreds of participating magazines and news outlets. The apps free tier will still let people read a smattering of select articles from a wide variety of publishers. To persuade publishers to join the paid service, Apple executives have said the scale of Apple News, which is installed on every iPhone sold to consumers, could introduce millions of new customers to their content. Last, and definitely least, Apple on Monday may introduce a new Apple-branded credit card in association with Goldman Sachs. The card will reportedly be tightly integrated with Apples Wallet app and may offer users unique rewards when purchasing Apple products and, perhaps, some appealing cashback terms. Sign up for BGR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Trending Right Now: See the original version of this article on BGR.com Username: Password: or Register Back to Forum Reply to This post Post New Thread Thread Rating: 0 Vote(s) - 0 Average 1 2 3 4 5 Project 23000E silversides The bare necessities of life User ID: 148291 03-23-2019 03:53 AM Posts: 32,032 Post: #1 Project 23000E Advertisement https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmXJ1_S6p8A The Russian Navy is planning the construction of a new aircraft carrier to accompany the Admiral Kuznetsov. representatives of the Krylov State Research Center said that compared to the Russian heavy aircraft carrier of Shtorm (Storm Project 23000E )-class which is also under development, their ship will be cheaper as well as having a smaller displacement, according to Russian military expert Vladimir Karnozov. Currently, the military along with the nation's shipbuilders are working out the shape of the future vessel and its performance characteristics, with several options being placed on the table. One of them proceeds from the assumption that the dimensions of the vessel will be close to those of the heavy Russian aircraft-carrying cruiser Admiral Kuznetsov, according to Karnozov. The new aircraft carrier is expected to have a maximum speed of up to 25 knots, which is considered quite sufficient to ensure liftoff and landing operations of the Su-27K and the MiG-29K deck fighter jets. The knot is a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile (1.852 km) per hour. Commenting upon the Shtorm-class aircraft carrier, Karnozov warned against jumping to conclusions, saying that allegations about the closure of the projects hold no water. He recalled that a mock-up model of this 330-meter-long supercarrier was on display at the 2017 International Naval Show in St. Petersburg, where developers touted the vessel as "a multipurpose aircraft carrier designed to conduct combat operations in the remote sea and ocean areas as well as destroy enemy ground and sea targets." Karnozov did not rule out that "a final decision about the implementation of the Shtorm project will depend on whether Moscow will clinch relevant deals in India and China, Russia's long-standing and reliable partners in terms of military and technical cooperation." According to Russian defense industry sources, the new 90-100-ton warship should be capable of accommodating 80-90 aircraft and stay at sea for 90-120 days. According to Russian defense industry estimates, construction of the carrier would take seven to ten years and cost as much as $17.5 billion. Despite the admirals affirmation that the Russian Navy will continue to pursue the carrier project, multiple hurdles would need to be overcome. Next to the obvious fiscal constraints given the stagnating Russian defense budget, technical issues abound. For starters, Russia has never built an aircraft carrier, I explained previously. All Soviet carriers were constructed in Ukraine. Russias shipbuilding industry currently lacks the capacity to build a supercarrier and does not even have a large enough dry dock to accommodate a vessel the size of the Shtorm. The Russian Navy also lacks escort ships and support vessels for a carrier strike group not to mention carrier-based long-range strike and electronic warfare aircraft. In an interview, Victor Murakhovsky, editor-in-chief of Arsenal of the Fatherland magazine, and chairman of Russias Military-Industrial Commission, expressed skepticism that Russia would be able to afford an entire new carrier strike group. Displacement: 90,000100,000 tons Length: 330 m (1,083 ft) Beam: 40 m (131 ft) (waterline) Draught: 11 m (36 ft) Speed: 25 kn Sensors and processing systems: Integrated sensors, including: Multifunction phased array radar, Electronic warfare system, Communications suite Armament: Four anti-aircraft systems (unspecified) Aircraft carried: 90 Sukhoi Su-57 Sukhoi Su-33 Mikoyan MiG-29K Kamov Ka-27/52K Mikoyan UCAV Aviation facilities: Angled flight deck with four launching positions (two on the ski-jump ramp and two electromagnetic catapults) One set of arrestor gear. Dual island design --------------------------------------- Project 23000E Model of the proposed aircraft carrier of project 23000E at the ARMY-2015 military-technical forum. Class overview Name: Shtorm class Builders: Baltic Shipyard, Bolshoy Kamen, Dalzavod, Severnaya Verf, Sevmash, Zvezda shipyard (?) Operators: Russian Navy Preceded by: Kuznetsov class Ulyanovsk class Cost: ~$5.5 billion (for export version) General characteristics Type: Aircraft carrier Displacement: 90,000100,000 tons[1] Length: 330 m (1,083 ft)[1] Beam: 40 m (131 ft)[1] (waterline) Draught: 11 m (36 ft)[1] Propulsion: Steam turbines, 8 turbo-pressurised boilers, 4 shafts, 200,000 hp (150 MW) 4 50,000 hp (37 MW) turbines 9 2,011 hp (1,500 kW) turbogenerators 6 2,011 hp (1,500 kW) diesel generators 4 fixed pitch propellers Speed: 30 kn (56 km/h; 35 mph)[1] Sensors and processing systems: Integrated sensors, including:[1] Multifunction phased array radar Electronic warfare system Communications suite Armament: Four anti-aircraft systems (unspecified) Aircraft carried: 80-90[1] Sukhoi Su-57 Mikoyan MiG-29K Aviation facilities: Angled flight deck,[1] with four launching positions (two on the ski-jump ramp and two electromagnetic catapults) One set of arrestor gear. Notes: Dual island design[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_23000E Mele Kalikimaka New Russian Aircraft Carrier more dangerous than Shtorm! Novi ruski nosac avionaThe Russian Navy is planning the construction of a new aircraft carrier to accompany the Admiral Kuznetsov. representatives of the Krylov State Research Center said that compared to the Russian heavy aircraft carrier of Shtorm (Storm Project 23000E )-class which is also under development, their ship will be cheaper as well as having a smaller displacement, according to Russian military expert Vladimir Karnozov.Currently, the military along with the nation's shipbuilders are working out the shape of the future vessel and its performance characteristics, with several options being placed on the table.One of them proceeds from the assumption that the dimensions of the vessel will be close to those of the heavy Russian aircraft-carrying cruiser Admiral Kuznetsov, according to Karnozov.The new aircraft carrier is expected to have a maximum speed of up to 25 knots, which is considered quite sufficient to ensure liftoff and landing operations of the Su-27K and the MiG-29K deck fighter jets. The knot is a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile (1.852 km) per hour.Commenting upon the Shtorm-class aircraft carrier, Karnozov warned against jumping to conclusions, saying that allegations about the closure of the projects hold no water.He recalled that a mock-up model of this 330-meter-long supercarrier was on display at the 2017 International Naval Show in St. Petersburg, where developers touted the vessel as "a multipurpose aircraft carrier designed to conduct combat operations in the remote sea and ocean areas as well as destroy enemy ground and sea targets."Karnozov did not rule out that "a final decision about the implementation of the Shtorm project will depend on whether Moscow will clinch relevant deals in India and China, Russia's long-standing and reliable partners in terms of military and technical cooperation."According to Russian defense industry sources, the new 90-100-ton warship should be capable of accommodating 80-90 aircraft and stay at sea for 90-120 days.According to Russian defense industry estimates, construction of the carrier would take seven to ten years and cost as much as $17.5 billion. Despite the admirals affirmation that the Russian Navy will continue to pursue the carrier project, multiple hurdles would need to be overcome. Next to the obvious fiscal constraints given the stagnating Russian defense budget, technical issues abound.For starters, Russia has never built an aircraft carrier, I explained previously. All Soviet carriers were constructed in Ukraine. Russias shipbuilding industry currently lacks the capacity to build a supercarrier and does not even have a large enough dry dock to accommodate a vessel the size of the Shtorm.The Russian Navy also lacks escort ships and support vessels for a carrier strike group not to mention carrier-based long-range strike and electronic warfare aircraft. In an interview, Victor Murakhovsky, editor-in-chief of Arsenal of the Fatherland magazine, and chairman of Russias Military-Industrial Commission, expressed skepticism that Russia would be able to afford an entire new carrier strike group.Displacement: 90,000100,000 tonsLength: 330 m (1,083 ft)Beam: 40 m (131 ft) (waterline)Draught: 11 m (36 ft)Speed: 25 knSensors andprocessing systems:Integrated sensors, including:Multifunction phased array radar,Electronic warfare system,Communications suiteArmament: Four anti-aircraft systems (unspecified)Aircraft carried: 90Sukhoi Su-57Sukhoi Su-33Mikoyan MiG-29KKamov Ka-27/52KMikoyan UCAVAviation facilities:Angled flight deckwith four launching positions (two on the ski-jump ramp and two electromagnetic catapults)One set of arrestor gear.Dual island design---------------------------------------Project 23000EModel of the proposed aircraft carrier of project 23000E at the ARMY-2015 military-technical forum.Class overviewName:Shtorm classBuilders:Baltic Shipyard, Bolshoy Kamen, Dalzavod, Severnaya Verf, Sevmash, Zvezda shipyard (?)Operators:Russian NavyPreceded by:Kuznetsov classUlyanovsk classCost:~$5.5 billion (for export version)General characteristicsType:Aircraft carrierDisplacement:90,000100,000 tons[1]Length:330 m (1,083 ft)[1]Beam:40 m (131 ft)[1] (waterline)Draught:11 m (36 ft)[1]Propulsion:Steam turbines, 8 turbo-pressurised boilers, 4 shafts, 200,000 hp (150 MW) 4 50,000 hp (37 MW) turbines 9 2,011 hp (1,500 kW) turbogenerators 6 2,011 hp (1,500 kW) diesel generators4 fixed pitch propellersSpeed:30 kn (56 km/h; 35 mph)[1]Sensors andprocessing systems:Integrated sensors, including:[1]Multifunction phased array radarElectronic warfare systemCommunications suiteArmament:Four anti-aircraft systems (unspecified)Aircraft carried:80-90[1]Sukhoi Su-57Mikoyan MiG-29KAviation facilities:Angled flight deck,[1]with four launching positions (two on the ski-jump ramp and two electromagnetic catapults)One set of arrestor gear.Notes:Dual island design[1] (This post was last modified: 03-23-2019 03:54 AM by silversides .) LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 494452 03-23-2019 04:00 AM Post: #2 RE: Project 23000E waste silversides The bare necessities of life User ID: 148291 03-23-2019 04:04 AM Posts: 32,032 Post: #3 RE: Project 23000E LoP Guest Wrote: (03-23-2019 04:00 AM) waste I think they want to sell them to India... I think they want to sell them to India... Mele Kalikimaka Back to Forum Reply to This post Post New Thread WASHINGTON The day has finally come. Special counsel Robert Mueller has completed his investigation into Russian interference into the 2016 election and possible collusion with President Donald Trump's campaign. In announcing the end of the investigation, Attorney General William Barr sent a letter to members of Congress informing them that the probe, which roots go back to summer 2016, had been completed. "I write to notify you ... that special counsel Robert S. Mueller III has concluded his investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election and related matters," Barr wrote in the letter, which was sent to the top Democrats and Republicans on the Senate and House Judiciary Committees. Barr said in the letter that Mueller had submitted his final, confidential report, and that he could alert lawmakers in the coming days to its findings. Those findings will likely be made public at the same time, according to Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec. More: Special counsel Robert Mueller delivers report marking end of investigation into Trump's campaign, Russia Barr told lawmakers he is "reviewing the report, and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." But for now, Mueller's findings remain a mystery. In the nearly two years since Mueller was installed to oversee that work, the investigation has resulted in charges against more than two dozen Russian operatives, and a succession of aides and advisers to Trump's campaign, including its former chairman. In doing so, prosecutors mapped the details of a Russian operation to sway the election, and a campaign eager to reap the benefit of those efforts. Read the full letter here: Dear Chairman Graham, Chairman Nadler, Ranking Member Feinstein, and Ranking Member Collins: I write to notify you pursuant to 28 C.F.R. 8 600.9(a)(3) that Special Counsel Robert S. Mueller III has concluded his investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election and related matters. In addition to this notification, the Special Counsel regulations require that I provide you with "a description and explanation of instances (if any) in which the Attorney General" or acting Attorney General "concluded that a proposed action by a Special Counsel was so inappropriate or unwarranted under established Departmental practices that it should not be pursued." 28 C.F.R. 8 600.9(a)(3) 9. There were no such instances during the Special Counsel's investigation The Special Counsel has submitted to me today a "confidential report explaining the prosecution or declination decisions" he has reached, as required by 28 C.F.R. 8 600.8(c). I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend 99 prosecution or declination decisions Separately, I intend to consult with Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein and Special Counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law, including the Special Counsel regulations, and the Department's long-standing practices and policies. I remain committed to as much transparency as possible, and I will keep you informed as to the status of my review. Finally, the Special Counsel regulations provide that "the Attorney General may determine that public release of" this notification "would be in the public interest." 28 C.F.R. { 600.9(c). I have so determined, and I will disclose this letter to the public after delivering it to you. Sincerely, William P. Barr Attorney General Contributing: Kevin Johnson This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Read Attorney General Barr's letter to Congress announcing end of Mueller's Russia probe After receiving Special Counsel Robert Muellers highly anticipated report on President Donald Trump and Russian efforts to meddle in the 2016 election, Attorney General William Barr told Congress that he is committed to as much transparency as possible. In a letter addressed to ranking member of the Senate and House Committees on the Judiciary on Friday, Barr stated that he is currently reviewing the report and I may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. Barr also noted that when Mueller delivered the report, the Special Counsel stated that the Attorney General may determine that public release of this notification would be of the public interest. I have so determined, Barr wrote. Read Barrs full letter below. Attorney General Bill Barr notified Congress on Friday that Special Counsel Robert Mueller had completed his report and submitted it to him for review. Dear Chairman Graham, Chairman Nadler, Ranking Member Feinstein, and Ranking Member Collins: I write to notify you pursuant to 28 C.F.R. 600.9(a)(3) that Special Counsel Robert S. Mueller III has concluded his investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election and related matters. In addition to this notification, the Special Counsel regulations require that I provide you with a description and explanation of instances (if any) in which the Attorney General or acting Attorney General concluded that a proposed action by a Special Counsel was so inappropriate or unwarranted under established Departmental practices that it should not be pursued. 28 C.F.R. 600.9(a)(3). There were no such instances during the Special Counsels investigation. The Special Counsel has submitted to me today a confidential reporting explaining the prosecution or declination decisions he has reached, as required by 28 C.F.R. 600.9(a)(3). I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. Separately, I intend to consult with Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein and Special Counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the publicn consistent with the law. Lonzo Ball has reportedly cut ties with longtime family adviser and BBB co-founder Alan Foster over unaccounted for funds. (AP) Los Angeles Lakers guard Lonzo Ball has cut ties with Big Baller Brand co-founder Alan Foster over $1.5 million in unaccounted for money from Ball's personal and business accounts, ESPN reports. The report goes into detail about Fosters role in establishing the apparel brand, his criminal history that includes a seven-year prison sentence for mail fraud and money laundering and Balls decision to part ways with Foster independently of his father LaVar Ball. Lonzo Ball told ESPN that Foster used his access to my business and personal finances to enrich himself. As a result, I have decided to sever all ties with Alan, effective immediately." Who is Alan Foster? LaVar Ball has credited Foster with inspiring him to create Big Baller Brand, the familys apparel and shoe company that has led Lonzo Ball to eschew overtures from traditional shoe companies like Nike and Adidas. The relationship was built when Lonzo Ball became friends with Fosters son as a seventh-grader, according to the report. "This dude is one of the smartest suckers ever," LaVar Ball told ESPN of Foster in 2017. "He knows how everything goes. ... "He [Foster] was like, 'I'll tell you what. You're going to put all the work in with your boys. I'll come back and run the agency. Whatever you need me to do. Let me do it, though. Foster owned 16.3 percent of the company, while Lonzo Ball owns 51 percent, ESPN reports. LaVar Ball owns 16.4 percent and Lonzos mother Tina Ball owns 16.3 percent. Alan Foster, left, and LaVar Ball at LaMelo Ball's birthday party in 2017. (Getty) Urgent - $1.5 million Dollars Missing Lonzo Balls financial adviser Humble Lukanga raised concerns in October about not being able to complete Big Baller Brands taxes due to $1.5 million in unaccounted for money, according to the report. The subject line of the email from Lukanga flagging the alleged missing money read: "Urgent - $1.5 million Dollars Missing," according to ESPN. The email noted that Foster won't show any invoices or documentation of these expenses in reference to the allegedly unaccounted for money. Story continues Lukanga resigned in November over the discrepancy, but has recently rejoined the company after being rehired by Lonzo Ball, according to the report. Report: LaVar Ball delayed response to concerns LaVar Ball eventually addressed Lukangas concerns last week, according to the report, and issued a statement to ESPN for its story. "I've always believed in the best in people, the statement reads. Regretfully, I put my complete trust in Alan Foster to manage my son's business affairs. At the end of the day, family comes first, and I support Zo wholeheartedly. Together, we will make this right." Foster agreed to meet ESPN to discuss the story, but has failed to respond to the networks request to follow up on that agreement, according to the report. Fosters criminal past The report notes that Foster has a felony past that led to a seven-year prison sentence in 2002 and a legal order that he pay $3.4 million in restitution after a scheme that defrauded 70 investors of $4 million. He pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and two counts of money laundering, according to court records obtained by ESPN. Foster was also cited in 1999 for carrying a concealed handgun without a license and arrested on an unspecified felony-level violation of his probation for the financial fraud scheme in 2009, according to the report. The prosecutor in the financial fraud case told ESPN that Foster targeted black families. "They targeted African-Americans that they got to know through churches and by other means, Joseph Zwicker said. And they made various misrepresentations to them about their ability to return large sums on investments, which were false. They admitted that." ESPN reached out to the Lakers, who declined comment on the story. More from Yahoo Sports: Robert Mueller - REUTERS Robert Mueller, the special counsel, has finished his report into whether Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign colluded with Russia. A US justice department official said Mr Mueller, in his report, had not recommended any further criminal charges. Rudy Giuliani, Mr Trump's lawyer, said he was "confident there is no finding of collusion by the president" and Mr Trump had done "nothing wrong". The report was delivered, as is required, in hard copy form by Mr Mueller's team to the justice department following an investigation that lasted 675 days. It will now be up to Bill Barr, the US attorney general, to decide how much of the report to release to Congress and the public. Donald Trump has called the Russia investigation a "witch hunt" Credit: Reuters Mr Barr said he could release his account to Congress as soon as this weekend. The justice department official described the report as "comprehensive" but refused to say how many pages it was. Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer, the Democrat leaders in Congress, said it was "imperative" Mr Mueller's full report be made public. They said the White House should have no say in what was released. In a statement they said: "The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency." Bill Barr, the attorney general, will decide how much of the Mueller report to make public Credit: AFP Mr Giuliani said he was pleased that Mr Mueller has delivered his report, and that Mr Barr "will determine the appropriate next steps". Mr Giuliani said: "This marks the end of the investigation. We await a disclosure of the facts. "We are confident that there is no finding of collusion by the president and this underscores what the president has been saying - that he did nothing wrong." Sarah Sanders, the White House press secretary, said: The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. "The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report." In his one-page letter to the Senate and House judiciary committees Mr Barr wrote: "I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." Story continues He added: "I remain committed to as much transparency as possible." In his letter Mr Barr also said he was required to tell Congress if there had been any instances where the special counsel's actions had been "inappropriate or unwarranted". He said there had been "no such instances during the special counsel's investigation". Mr Barr's letter Credit: Reuters Shortly before the announcement Mr Trump had intensified his attacks on Mr Mueller's investigation. Mr Trump criticised how Rod Rosenstein, the deputy attorney general, had appointed Mr Mueller to carry out the probe in May 2017. That appointment followed the president's decision to fire James Comey as director of the FBI. At the time Mr Comey was leading an FBI investigation into whether there was collusion with Russia. Mr Trump said: "I have a deputy, appoints a man to write a report on me, to make a determination on my presidency. People will not stand for it." The president said that Mr Mueller was "best friend" to Mr Comey. James Comey was fired by Mr Trump Credit: Reuters He added: "There was no collusion. There was no obstruction [of justice]. Everybody knows it. It's all a big hoax. It's all a witch hunt." Justice department regulations require only that Mr Mueller give the attorney general a confidential report explaining his decisions to pursue, or not to pursue, prosecutions against people he has investigated. That could mean the report is anything from a simple list of bullet points to a hefty tome running to hundreds of pages. Mr Barr has said that, after reading Mr Mueller's report, he will write a second one to be seen by Congress and the public. Journalists working in a bus shelter outside the US justice department Credit: Reuters The major question surrounding the content of Mr Mueller's report is whether it will implicate the president in criminal conduct such as obstruction of justice or campaign finance violations. Mr Mueller's team, which had wide powers to investigate the president, has already brought criminal charges against 34 people, including six associates of Mr Trump. Alan Dershowitz, Harvard law professor emeritus, said the conclusion of the report meant there would be "no further indictments form the special counsel himself". But he said there may still be some in other investigations going on in New York, Washington and Virginia. However, he added: "If it is concluded there as no collusion or obstruction of justice it takes the wind out of the attack on the president himself." House Democrats, concerned president Donald Trumps attorney general may withhold evidence of wrongdoing uncovered by special counsel Robert Mueller, are preparing for potential battle over access to the full contents of Mr Muellers newly completed report, vowing to pursue it and any underlying investigative materials in court if necessary. We will fight for the full report, said representative Jerrold Nadler, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, emphasising that Democrats expect complete transparency from Mr Mueller and the Justice Department, save for redactions of classified information that could jeopardise sensitive law enforcement methods if disclosed publicly. Attorney general William Barr informed the heads of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees in a letter on Friday he might be able to advise them of Mr Muellers principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. He also noted neither Mr Barr nor his predecessors had challenged any actions Mr Mueller took during his probe. But with limited power to compel information from potential witnesses, congressional Democrats are looking to Mr Muellers findings to inform their investigations of Mr Trumps campaign, businesses and alleged foreign ties and insist they will be satisfied with nothing short of a complete account of the results and the evidence that informed them. [[gallery-0]] The special counsels investigation focused on questions that go to the integrity of our democracy itself: whether foreign powers corruptly interfered in our elections, and whether unlawful means were used to hinder that investigation, house speaker Nancy Pelosi and senate minority leader Charles Schumer said in a joint statement after Mr Barr announced Mr Mueller had completed his report. The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency. The stakes are high: If the special counsel found evidence Mr Trump committed a crime, participated in a cover up, or otherwise engaged in conduct undermining the public trust, it could fuel calls for impeachment, which Democratic leaders have resisted absent proof of wrongdoing. Story continues According to the Justice Department, Mr Mueller has not recommended any further indictments news Mr Trumps defenders in the GOP took as vindication. The reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what weve known all along: there was never any collusion with Russia, representative Steve Scalise of Louisiana, the Houses second-ranking Republican, said in a statement. Mr Trumps disdain for Mr Muellers probe, which he has labelled a witch hunt, and his animus towards congressional oversight, which he considers presidential harassment, have fed Democrats suspicion he might have something to hide and might attempt to force Mr Barr to conceal any unsavoury details from public view. As a result, Ms Pelosi and Mr Schumer warned on Friday it was imperative Mr Barr publicise Mr Muellers findings no later than the president was made aware of the reports contents. Attorney general Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any sneak preview of special counsel Muellers findings or evidence, they said. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public. Republicans say the full report should be released. But they have stopped short of echoing the Democrats concerns, expressing faith Mr Barr will be as transparent as possible indicating they will defer to Mr Barr, not fight him. Were jumping about 60 steps too far, said the Judiciary Committees ranking minority-party member, representative Douglas Collins when asked about the Democrats plans. At this point in time Im not going to question my attorney generals veracity or the fact that hes going to do what he says hes going to do. Until he proves me wrong. Regulations governing Mr Muellers work, which centres on Russias interference in the 2016 presidential election and whether anyone in the Trump campaign conspired with those efforts, require the special counsel only to provide Mr Barr with a confidential report explaining why he elected to prosecute certain individuals or declined to do so. Mr Barr may release the report publicly, if he deems it in the public interest. That is not required, though he is under considerable pressure to do so. One key question Democrats have is whether Mr Mueller has concluded that Mr Trump engaged in criminal activities but declined to charge him in deference to Justice Department policy that a sitting president may not be indicted. Such information should be made public, they argue. If the special counsel has reason to believe that the president has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct, then the Justice Department has an obligation not to conceal such information, the Democratic chairs of the six House panels conducting investigations that dovetail with Mr Muellers probe said in a joint statement Friday night. Anything less than full transparency would raise serious questions about whether the Department of Justice policy is being used as a pretext for a cover up of misconduct. Compounding Democrats unease are remarks made in February by deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein, who said the Justice Department should not reveal information about people it does not charge with crimes. That suggests the department will not release interviews, emails or other material concerning the president and others who were not charged, even though such information could be useful to ongoing investigations in the House. Im concerned that [DOJ is] signalling theyre going to fight the Congress when it comes to [Mr Muellers] underlying evidence, said representative Adam Schiff who as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee is leading one of six Trump-related probes in the House. The Senate Intelligence Committee is also examining Russias activities surrounding the 2016 election, a probe that began shortly after Mr Trumps inauguration. Were going to have to pick and choose our legal battles, Mr Schiff added, but it seems to me there are few fights as important as this one. To obtain the full report, Democrats will likely first negotiate with the Justice Department. An offer to let members read it in a secure room designed for viewing classified materials would not suffice, Mr Nadler said. No, no, no, he said. Information that goes to [intelligence] sources and methods should not be public. But everything else should be. If negotiations fail to produce the complete report and its underlying evidence, then the Democrats will move to more coercive measures such as subpoenas, Mr Nadler said. The next step after that is to ask Mueller to testify in front of the committee, he said. If the Justice Department resists, Ms Pelosi would have to decide whether to start a political battle by seeking to hold administration officials in contempt of Congress a decision likely to result in lengthy court fights. The administration could also seek to prevent disclosure of material involving the president by claiming it is subject to executive privilege, but such claims are not absolute. Mr Nadler and Mr Barr met in March for a working lunch, their first face-to-face meeting. Mr Nadler said he conveyed the importance of releasing the full report and underlying materials. Mr Barr, he added, just repeated that hed do what he could and wanted to have as much disclosure as possible, period. He wasnt getting specific and couldnt get specific. Mr Nadler cited two instances in which a court found that the executive branch could turn over grand jury material, one during the congressional investigation and impeachment proceedings of president Richard Nixon and the other during the 2010 impeachment trial of Thomas Porteous, a federal judge from Louisiana who was accused of taking bribes from lawyers and lying to lawmakers during their investigation. It should not be necessary that there be a formal impeachment proceeding for Congress to get that material, Mr Schiff said. It should be enough that Congress has a public purpose for it. Mr Nadler said its important for the public to see the full report, whether it implicates or exonerates the president, to begin to restore trust in government. The reason Mueller was appointed in the first place is theres a crisis of confidence, he said. To the extent he knows something or reaches a conclusion, the public ought to know it, and ought to know the underlying evidence. The Democrats intend to leverage a precedent set by the Justice Department during the last Congress in connection with Republican-led investigations into Hillary Clintons use of a private email server, the dismissal of FBI deputy director Andrew McCabe and allegations of bias among law enforcement officials involved in the Russia investigation. In those matters, the department released to Congress hundreds of thousands of internal documents regarding the FBIs decision-making, and all underlying documents involving the surveillance of a former Trump campaign official. Though he warned against the practice then, Mr Schiff said he believes the department should match or outpace that level of compliance with regard to Mr Muellers work, to avoid the appearance of being orchestrated by the president. The chairs of the six House panels investigating Mr Trump, including Oversight, Ways and Means, Financial Services and Foreign Affairs, also plan to issue preservation letters to agencies that have provided information to Mr Mueller, such as the Justice Department, the FBI, the White House Counsels Office. They want the agencies to retain any memos, correspondence, or other information that could be relevant in their ongoing probes. The CIA, National Security Agency, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Treasury and State departments also will receive letters. Democratic lawmakers issued similar letters last year when Mr Trump fired his first attorney general, Jeff Sessions. Democrats believe Mr Muellers report and investigative materials will facilitate their efforts to further scrutinise Mr Trumps campaign and administration, his personal finances and his business operations as they search for evidence of corruption or any effort to obstruct justice. There may be a lot of useful information in there, even if we think some things are unnecessarily redacted, said representative Jamie Raskin, a senior member of the Judiciary and Oversight committees. But as a first order of business, when Mr Barr delivers a report on Mr Muellers probe to Congress, Mr Raskin said: We plan to read it. Washington Post So this is it. After two years, more than 30 indictments or guilty pleas and close to 200 individual charges special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation is expected to be wound up within a few more days. His final verdict has been delivered to attorney general William Barr the third attorney general since the special counsel was handed oversight of one of the most sensitive investigations in US history. It is up to Mr Barr as to what Congress, and by extension the US public, see of the report. Mr Barr has pledged transparency over a report that at least one US official is said to have called comprehensive. However, if early reports of the contents of Mr Muellers findings into Russian election meddling and possible collusion with Donald Trumps campaign are to be believed, there will be no new damage to the presidents former inner circle. No new indictments are said to have been recommended. Mr Trump and his White House staff may be preparing to breathe a sigh of relief at the news the presidents strategy has always been to deny the allegations and to try and keep the investigation at arms length. The fact that around half a dozen former Trump officials have been indicted has ensured such tactics have been met with scepticism by many. According to Justice Department rules Mr Muellers report should explain the special counsels decisions. These include who was charged and who wasnt, and why each choice was made. There is little doubt that Mr Trump will seek to undermine the contents of the report, having spent much of the last two years publicly admonishing Mr Mueller as well as a number of his former associates who have either been found guilty or pleaded guilty to crimes that stemmed from the investigation. Mr Trumps former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen, Mr Trumps former campaign chief Paul Manafort and the presidents former national security adviser Michael Flynn are some of those who have been found guilty or agreed plea deals with Mr Muellers team or other prosecutors. Mr Trump will probably use whatever is released of the report to support his constant utterances of innocence and no collusion. Story continues While it cannot be ruled out that Mr Mueller has one last rabbit to pull out of his hat with the investigation having proved virtually leak-proof in the last two years the result of the report is likely to disappoint many liberals. But Mr Trump cannot breath completely easy just yet. First, there is the possibility that Mr Mueller could highlight possible collusion or obstruction of justice even without any new indictments, although current indictments should have pointed more definitely to that before now. But Mr Trumps biggest problem is that the Mueller inquiry has led to, or spawned, a number of other investigations. Prosecutors in both the southern and eastern areas of New York, Washington DC and parts of Virginia are all conducting federal probes that stretch beyond the scope of Mr Muellers work. Those prosecutors are not bound by the more limiting instructions and rules that Mr Muellers office must follow, and they do not face the scrutiny or pressure to finish promptly that the special counsels office have. With Democrats having also taken control of the House of Representatives in Novembers midterm elections, there are a number of investigations either beginning or slated to begin into Mr Trumps finances and other potential conduct from inside the White House. Leading Democrats have already called for Mr Barr to release the full Mueller report, and such pressure is unlikely to let up any time soon. (Repeats with no changes) By Colin Packham SYDNEY, March 22 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Scott Morrison's Liberal Party faces a tight election contest in Australia's largest state on Saturday, polls suggest, as a strong economy and a troubled opposition may not surmount voter anger over the removal of his predecessor. Morrison, who replaced Malcolm Turnbull after a backbench revolt last year, is pinning his re-election hopes for a May federal poll on his conservative government's economic track record, a strategy it has also deployed in New South Wales. The outcome in a state that has historically swung between the two major parties and is home to some marginal electorates that Morrison's party must win to secure re-election will be a pointer to the May result. "You can't escape the parallels between New South Wales and the federal election," said Haydon Manning, a political science specialist at Flinders University in South Australia. "If the Liberal Party can't retain government there, the odds of a Labor victory in May will be much shorter." Australia's robust economy would be the envy of politicians heading into a poll in other countries, but the state's finances are in even better shape, with unemployment near a record low, below the national figure of 4.9 percent. State coffers topped A$400 billion ($286 billion) last year, exceeding the economies of each of the southeast Asian nations of Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand, despite signs of a property price-led pullback. Yet the economic strength has not translated into strong polling for the state and federal Liberal parties. Voter frustration that the strong economy has yet to deliver better infrastructure has dented support for NSW Liberal leader Gladys Berejiklian, analysts said. "The infrastructure cycle hasn't matched the electoral one," said Rodney Smith, an expert in Australian politics at the University of Sydney. "Berejiklian has not been able to cut enough ribbons to make people think she has delivered." Story continues Despite a #MeToo scandal that has rocked the opposition Labor Party, its support has grown steadily in recent months amid rising discontent over inequality. "It will be close," Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney. "We need to finish the projects we've started, we need to begin the new ones." Less than two months before the federal election, Morrison's government is trailing Labor by 54 percent to 46 percent on a two-party preferred basis, amid voter anger at the removal of his predecessor. "There is a lot of anger at the change in prime minister," said John Warhurst, a specialist in Australian politics at the Australian National University. "The state election will provide a litmus test for Morrison's appeal in Sydney's west, where there are a few seats that incumbent Liberal members hold with only a small majority." ($1=1.3965 Australian dollars) (Reporting by Colin Packham; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) INDIANAPOLIS An active-shooter training at an Indiana school that left teachers with welts, bruises and abrasions has raised eyebrows and questions about how this training should be done. There is little agreement in the field about what the right approach to active-shooter training is some experts suggest traditional lockdowns are most effective, and in some methods, teachers simply observe while police role-play but they generally do not involve shooting teachers with an air-powered device, called an airsoft gun, that was used in this incident. Teachers at Meadowlawn Elementary School in Monticello were supposed to be receiving what is called ALICE training, an "options-based" approach that encourages students and teachers to be proactive in their response to an active-shooter and teaches tactics that include rushing a shooter in some situations. More: The teachers were told to kneel. Then 'shot.' An Indiana training exercise draws criticism Barbara Deardorff, an official with the Indiana State Teachers Association, represents 16 school districts, including the Twin Lakes district and Meadowlawn Elementary, and is familiar with the active-shooter training that teachers receive. Ive worked with teachers in other districts who have gone through ALICE, and this did not happen," she said. This is not the normal practice. Some methods teach people to flee, hide or fight The Ohio-based ALICE Training Institute offers training for different organizations across the country, including schools, police, businesses, higher education institutions and places of worship. ALICE is an acronym for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate. This model, and others like it, purport to give students and teachers options in an active-shooter scenario. They're encouraged to evacuate the school when possible, hide in locked-down classrooms when not and to fight back against the shooter in some way if faced with them by throwing things or even rushing the attacker. Story continues A common approach to teaching this is for law enforcement familiar with ALICE or other programs to come into schools and provide in-person training, as was the case at Meadowlawn. It can be local police departments or sheriff's offices. While this is a common method, it may not be the best approach, said Morgan Ballis, a school safety consultant who advocates for options-based approaches and is an ALICE trainer. "They were training them like they would train other law enforcement," he said. He said the training done with the Meadowlawn teachers sounds like what ALICE trainers receive but wasn't intended to be passed on to teachers. Reality-based training is important, he said, but trainers need to differentiate the lessons for their audience. "If we are physically or emotionally creating training scars, then we're not going to meet the training objectives," Ballis said. In State Police approach, teachers observe while officers role-play The Indiana State Police, which recommends an expanded version of the popular Run, Hide, Fight program, also offers in-school training sessions. It includes slide-show and video presentations and discussion. Spokesman Sgt. John Perrine said the department also offers live-scenario training sessions, if requested, but officers do the role-playing while teachers observe. State police officers do not use airsoft guns or fire any projectiles, but they do use a handgun designed to fire blank rounds. "The purpose of our scenario is simply to expose teachers and staff to the sounds of gunfire in the building, as well as the smells associated with gun powder," Perrine said. The live scenario sessions are generally reserved for schools, but state police also offer active-shooter training to business, churches and other groups. Since 2015, they have done nearly 1,200 presentations across the state to various groups. White County Sheriff Bill Brooks, whose agency led the Meadowlawn training, said the department has been doing active-shooter training in schools for years. After learning that teachers were upset by the use of the airsoft gun, Brooks said, the department is no longer using the device with teachers. Teachers union seeks to end projectile-shooting during training The Indiana State Teachers Association is seeking to prohibit the practice of shooting projectiles at teachers in these training sessions. A representative from the organization appealed to lawmakers to add that language to a bill earlier this week. The organization does not oppose options-based training like ALICE or what the state police offer just the way the training in Meadowlawn was done. "We dont demolish a building to teach teachers and staff members how to prepare for a tornado drill," said Keith Gambill, ISTA vice president. "We understand how horrific that instance is. "We just think this was a step too far in this training." Gambill said the decision about what type of training is most appropriate should be a local decision. What works best in one district may not in another, he said. Traditional lockdown methods are widely used The popularly of these training programs ALICE, Run, Hide, Fight and others like them is on the rise, but the majority of schools still employ the traditional lockdown model, said Ken Trump, a school safety consultant in Ohio and critic of the options-based approaches. In a lockdown, teachers and students lock their doors, turn out the lights, get out of the line-of-sight of windows and doors and stay quiet. The goal, Trump said, is to make it look like the room is empty. "There are shooters who have gone past a locked-down classroom and didnt know people were in there," he said. Most of these incidents happen quickly, Trump said, and shooters are not going to spend time trying to get into a locked room. They're looking for easy targets, he said. Instead of spending time on options-based approaches, Trump said, schools should be practicing their lockdown drills. He suggests holding them at different times of day during lunch or when students are moving between classes as a reasonable way to make schools as safe and prepared as possible. "They're learning unproven, questionable practices but haven't done the basics," he said. Follow Arika Herron on Twitter: @ArikaHerron. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: This school's active-shooter training went wrong. Here's how experts say it should go. Miami (AFP) - A teenager who survived the Parkland school shooting in Florida has killed herself while struggling with survivors' guilt, local media reported Friday. Sydney Aiello, 19, was a student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas last February 14 when a former student opened fire with a semiautomatic weapon, killing 14 students and three staff members. Among the dead were two of Aiello's best friends, Meadow Pollack and Joaquin Oliver. Her parents told local news CBS4 that she had been treated for PTSD, and suffered from survivor's guilt, when a victim fixates on why they were the one to live, not someone else. Her mother, Cara, told CBS Miami that Aiello had had a difficult time with her college classes "because classrooms now scared her." Aiello graduated from high school in July. She was a yoga enthusiast, and took part in the national student movement seeking legal changes on gun control policy. Stoneman Douglas students became crusaders against gun violence under the banner "March for Our Lives," lobbying for tougher gun control laws and organizing protests and rallies. Meadow's father, Andrew Pollack, told the Miami Herald that his "heart goes out to those poor, poor parents. "It's terrible what happened. Meadow and Sydney were friends for a long, long time," Pollack said. 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The material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes.In accordance with industry accepted best practices we ask that users limit their copy / paste of copyrighted material to the relevant portions of the article you wish to discuss (no more than 50% of the source material) provide a link back to the original articleIf you are a legal copyright holder or a designated agent for such and you believe a post on this website falls outside the boundaries of "Fair Use" and legitimately infringes on yours or your clients copyright please contact [email protected] This website is owned by :Marco ZwaneveldDrijfriemstraat 522516 XR The HagueNetherlands.I will not rent, sell, share or otherwise disclose your personal information to any third party.We might contact you from time to time regarding your purchases or the services (like forums and announcement lists) you have subscribed to.Some of the 3rd party advertisers on lunaticoutpost.com may use cookiesto track peformance and/or to serve relevant ads.If you wish to read more and/or opt out of such cookies, please visit: http://www.networkadvertising.org/choices/ Jamelle Bouie writes in the New York Times that Republicans are riled by recent Democrats calling for an end to the Electoral College system, because neither Trump nor his Republican predecessor George W. Bush would have won the White House on their first go-round. It is a good time to look at the College again, and to admit that it has developed in ways the Founders could not always anticipate. A spirit of later 19th-century democratization brought about the reforms that impelled electors to align their votes to those of the majority of their states electorate. Of course there are partisan energies at work. If Hillary had won 200,000 more votes in strategically important areas, we would not be having this conversation. Democrats were not advocating eliminating the Electoral College in 1992, when its electors granted a very healthy majority to Bill Clinton even though 57 percent of voters rejected him. But in fact the first mistake is to assume that simply removing the Electoral College and moving to popular-vote presidential elections would produce results similar to those we have now, only with slightly more Democratic wins, owing to the concentration of Democrats in big cities. It is very likely that removing the Electoral College would necessitate a run-off election system, or the institution of ranked-choice voting. In the midst of these proposals, Lee Drutman at Vox was quick to come out with a plan to combine the Colleges abolition with ranked-choice voting. And upon these changes taking effect, the two-party system itself would disappear. The presidential campaign is the weak point of Americas two-party system. Democrats and Republicans had to go to great legal and logistical lengths to prevent the two-party system from breaking down after election-shaping challenges from Ross Perot in the 1990s and Ralph Nader in the year 2000. Drutmans argument for a national popular vote touted the benefits of the two-round French presidential election system, which produced a giant majority for the centrist Emmanuel Macron of En Marche against the National Fronts Marine Le Pen. Drutman held that this system prevented the least popular candidate overall from gaining the office on a plurality vote. But in fact, Macrons somewhat bumbling presidency is proof that this system can elevate a profoundly unpopular figure to the presidency. There is actually no worse example for America than the way the combination of candidacies produced an election and president that have worsened Frances troubling divide between the metropole and the peripheries. Story continues The breakdown of the two-party system would ruin the other argument for abolishing the Electoral College. Some advocates of a national plebiscite say that eliminating the College will increase the power of Democratic voters in deep-red states, and of Republican voters in deep-blue states. But this is almost certainly wrong. The likeliest result is that conservative rural voters in New York and California will be even more disenfranchised from the system. A national plebiscite will dramatically enhance the power of the largest and most concentrated media markets, at the expense of swing states. Currently it is the two-party system that ties the concerns of Republican voters in rural New York, or Democratic voters in Nashville, Tennessee, to presidential candidates, and it does so through the House of Representatives. The Electoral College, like the House, is tied into a larger constitutional and factional system that moderates political demands and ambitions, and ties together the country. Though New Yorks rural conservatives may not turn out for a presidential election, they do feel invested in their party, which ties their ambitions to the presidents. An alternative, multi-party system could easily be more riven by sectional, religious, and racial divides, or, like France, leave enormous sections of the country feeling that they have no voice in the presidential contest. The system of states electing voters, and certain states preceding others in the party primary system, brings presidential candidates much closer to voters in a few select states from the Midwest, New England, the South, and the West. A national popular vote will accelerate the Donald Trump style of campaigning, in which earned media or car-crash celebrity are sought as a means of speaking directly to large television audiences. There are legitimate concerns that the current balance of electoral-power grants will more often give control of the presidency and the Senate to a 48 percent minority over a 51 percent majority. There are several other ways to remedy this. One is to restore some of the freedom of the Colleges electors, allowing them to grant victory to a popular vote majority winner. Another is to restore the primacy of Congress in our federal system. But advocates of eliminating the Electoral College have not yet thought through all the implications of their preferred reform. More from National Review SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's antitrust regulator has lowered a decade-old penalty imposed on U.S. chipmaker Qualcomm Inc by 18 percent to $200 million, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) said on Thursday. The reduction comes after the Supreme Court overturned in January one of several lower court rulings against the U.S. firm for abusing its dominant market position. In 2009, the KFTC fined Qualcomm 273 billion won ($242.6 million) for abusing its market power in CDMA modem and radio frequency chips, which were then used in handsets made by South Korea's Samsung Electronics Co Ltd and LG Electronics Inc. The KFTC said it had reset the penalty to reflect the Supreme Court's ruling, adding however that a "monopolist enterprise's abuse of its market position cannot be tolerated". The fine is the latest in a series of antitrust rulings and investigations faced by Qualcomm from regulators across the globe. In a separate case, the South Korean regulator fined Qualcomm $854 million in 2016 for what it called unfair business practices in patent licensing and modem chip sales. Qualcomm declined to comment. (Reporting by Ju-min Park; additional reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Stephen Coates) MONTGOMERY, Ala. Southern Poverty Law Center President Richard Cohen said in a statement Friday he has asked the board of the troubled organization to "to immediately launch a search for an interim president in order to give the organization the best chance to heal" and took responsibility for problems that have swept out the senior leadership of the group in just a week. Cohen, who has worked at the SPLC since 1986 and served as president since 2003, said in the statement that "we'll emerge stronger" after an audit of the organization's practices by Tina Tchen, a former White House official and Chicago-based lawyer. "Given my long tenure as the SPLC president, however, I do not think I should be involved in that process beyond cooperating with Tina, her team, and the board in any way that may be helpful," the statement said. Whatever problems exist at the SPLC happened on my watch, so I take responsibility for them." Richard Cohen, president of Southern Poverty Law Center, speaks as the Southern Poverty Law Center holds a press conference to update the status of their lawsuit against the Alabama Department of Corrections, dealing with the medical and mental health needs of inmates, on the steps of the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Ala., on Friday February 8, 2019. Cohen's statement follow's last week termination of SPLC co-founder Morris Dees. Cohen last week said Dees failed to adhere to the organization's "values," hinting broadly at misconduct. The Los Angeles Times reported the resignation of an assistant legal director in recent weeks over race and gender equity concerns may have acted as a catalyst for Dees' removal. On Thursday, Rhonda Brownstein, SPLC legal director and a member of its senior leadership staff, also resigned, a source familiar with the matter confirmed to the Advertiser. The center has grown from a three-man legal organization to a mammoth, $450 million advocacy organization with offices across the Southeast. Since Dees' termination, the Advertiser has reached out to more than a dozen current or former center employees. The majority either did not return comment or declined to speak, but four former employees agreed to outline their experiences to a reporter. All four employees requested anonymity due to the center's reputation in the progressive nonprofit and political realms, where all continue to work. Story continues Several of the employees described staff turnover as high and a "toxic" workplace riddled with conflicting priorities and inter-office politics. All four independently spoke of racial equity concerns in senior leadership, describing a disproportionate amount of people of color serving in entry-level administrative positions compared to the rest of the workforce. A review of the center's 2019 board and senior staff reveals that senior leadership at SPLC remains largely white. More: Southern Poverty Law Center fires co-founder, civil rights lawyer Morris Dees Dees had weathered criticism for decades, with a 1994 Montgomery Advertiser series citing concerns about racial discrimination against back employees. Staffers at the time accused Morris Dees, the centers driving force, of being a racist and black employees have felt threatened and banded together. Dees strenuously denied the accusation at the time. Critics of the center in recent years have drawn attention to SPLC's behemoth fundraising mechanism. "His obsession has really been with fundraising," said Stephen Bright, a Yale law professor and former director of the Southern Center for Human Rights in Atlanta. "And the fundraising really promotes him. Its brought in millions and millions and millions of dollars. Its enabled him in some ways to overcome whatever bad press he got. When youre sending out mail to hundreds of thousands of people, most of them dont live in Alabama. The bad press just didnt compare to the fundraising appeals. Morris is a genius of fundraising solicitations. Hes the king of junk mail. He did it better than anybody else." Bright, a longtime critic of Dees, said the SPLC continues to do good work but, "If you have $430 million, do you really need people to give you more money at that point?" Dees personally raked in nearly $5.7 million in compensation since 2001 according to a review of publicly available tax documents. Over the years, the SPLC has continued to amass massive funds from donors amid differing levels of scrutiny. The nonprofit has hundreds of employees and offices in four states. Its $450 million coffers easily dwarf other civil rights groups such as the Equal Justice Initiative and the NAACP during the same time frame. The Montgomery-based EJI had about $57 million in net assets at that time and the NAACP had about $3.8 million. Cohen in the statement called it an "incredible honor" to serve. According to a biography on the SPLC website, Cohen joined the center as legal director in 1986 after practicing law in Washington D.C. He was later promoted to vice president of SPLC programs before he was named as president in 20 "I hope everyone participates in the transformational process that Tina will be leading with an open heart and an open mind," the statement said. "And I hope that everyone will let the process play out before jumping to conclusions. We cant be calling for a review and simultaneously casting blame before that review is complete." Contributing: Andrew Yawn and Brian Edwards This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Southern Poverty Law Center President Richard Cohen to step down MADRID (Reuters) - Spain's Socialists led in a poll published on Sunday in daily El Pais, but fell short of a majority with its main ally ahead of a general election next month. The Socialists would win 27.1 percent of the vote, or 122 seats in the 350-seat parliament. Together with far-left ally Podemos they would have 162 seats in parliament. That is exactly the same number that a coalition of three right-wing parties - People's Party (PP), Ciudadanos and far-right Vox - would have, according to the poll conducted on March 14-19. Both blocs would be short of the 176 seats needed to secure an outright parliamentary majority. Socialist Pedro Sanchez could clinch a majority to get reelected as prime minister if he gets the support of the array of parties that backed him last June when he won a vote of confidence against PP's government at the time. Sanchez then received the backing of Podemos and small regional parties. But two Catalan pro-independence parties that voted for him in 2018 did not support his budget proposal last February, prompting him to call for a snap election. The Socialists would be the most voted party in the April 28 election, with 27.1 percent of votes, followed by PP with 19.3 percent but losing 61 seats from the last election in 2016, while Ciudadanos would get 17.7 percent of votes and gain 23 seats in parliament, according to the poll. Podemos would receive 12.3 percent of votes and lose 31 seats, while Vox would get 10.2 percent, equivalent to 31 seats, being the first time in nearly four decades that far-right lawmakers would be elected to Spain's parliament. A poll of polls published by El Pais on March 13 gave the Socialists 27.3 percent of the vote, PP 20 percent, while support for Vox rose sharply to 12.1 percent. Sunday's poll was conducted by 40db with 1,500 respondents and had a margin of error of 2.58 percentage points. (Reporting by Belen Carreno and Joan Faus; editing by Axel Bugge and Sandra Maler) It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Sprouts Farmers (SFM). Shares have lost about 2.9% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500. Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Sprouts Farmers 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. Sprouts Farmers Q4 Earnings Beat, Provides Soft View Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc. delivered a positive earnings surprise of 5.6% in fourth-quarter 2018. Notably, this was the seventh time in the trailing eight quarters that this organic supermarket chain surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Net sales also came ahead of the consensus mark for the third quarter in row. Further, both the top and bottom line continued to increase in double-digits on a year-over-year basis. In spite of reporting better-than-expected results, we remain concerned about the companys 2019 view, which was not well received by investors. It is to be noted that the companys projection is below analysts expectations. Management guided net sales growth of 9-10.5% for 2019. Further, earnings are projected in the range of $1.16-$1.24 per share, which is way below $1.29 reported in 2018. Lets Delve Deep Sprouts Farmers reported quarterly earnings of 19 cents a share that beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny and increased 19% from the year-ago period. Higher net sales, lower effective tax rate and fall in shares outstanding, courtesy of buyback program drove year-over-year earnings growth. Net sales came in at $1,269.3 million, up 11% from the prior-year quarter on account of comparable store sales growth of 2.3% and robust performance in new outlets. We note that net sales marginally came ahead of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1,266 million. Management expects 2019 comparable store sales to improve in the range of 1.5-3%. Gross profit jumped 11% to $421 million, however, gross margin fell 15 basis points to 33.2%. Higher promotional activity and rising distribution and transportation expenses weighed on margins. Operating income plunged 22% to $28.8 million, while operating margin shrunk 90 basis points to 2.3%. Adjusted EBITDA jumped 9% to $69 million, while adjusted EBITDA margin decreased by 10 basis points to 5.4%. SG&A expenses rose 11% to $352.7 million, while as a percentage of sales the same contracted 10 basis points to 27.8%. This improvement was due to fall in workers compensation expenses and payroll tax benefit for California team members. This was partly offset by planned wage investments, and increased occupancy and advertising expenses. Store Update During the quarter under review, Sprouts Farmers opened two new outlets, one each in Florida and Nevada. During 2018, the company opened 30 new outlets and shuttered two locations, thereby resulting in 313 stores in 19 states as of Dec 30, 2018. The company plans to open 28 stores during 2019. The company plans to expand in to three new states this year namely, New Jersey, Virginia, and Louisiana. Other Financial Aspects Sprouts Farmers ended the reported quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $1.6 million, long-term debt of $453 million and shareholders equity of $589.2 million. The company generated cash from operations of $294.4 million in 2018 and incurred capital expenditures (net of landlord reimbursements) of $154 million. Management plans to invest $170-$175 million in capital expenditures (net of landlord reimbursements) during 2019. The company bought back 11.1 million shares worth of $258 million in 2018. At the end of 2018, the company still had $218 million available under its share buyback program. Subsequent to the end of the year and through Feb 18, 2019, the company bought back 850,000 for a total of $20 million. Story continues How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then? In the past month, investors have witnessed a downward trend in fresh estimates. The consensus estimate has shifted -7.75% due to these changes. VGM Scores Currently, Sprouts Farmers has a great Growth Score of A, though it is lagging a bit on the Momentum Score front with a B. Following the exact same course, 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 A. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in. Outlook Estimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of this revision indicates a downward shift. It's no surprise Sprouts Farmers 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 Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc. (SFM) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The conclusion of special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election concluded Friday with the news that a final report had been delivered to the attorney general. The probes formal end, however, leaves questions about several ongoing legal proceedings, including the prosecution of Roger Stone, a former adviser to President Donald Trump. In addition to Stones prosecution, the offices legal loose ends include two sentencings and two grand jury subpoena appeals. Yet the governments plans to carry those matters forward are unclear. Before the dramatic news Friday, the special counsels high-powered appellate team appeared to be on the verge, after a long struggle, of winning a series of appeals filed by two recalcitrant witnesses fighting subpoenas to appear before his grand jury. If those victories had been secured, Mueller would have the right to seek documents and testimony from Andrew Miller, an associate of Stones, and a mysterious company about which little is known, other than it is owned by a foreign government and has an office in the United States. The mysterious company, while zealously guarding its identity from public disclosure, had fought Mueller from the district court all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which was poised to decide whether to hear the case on Friday. Miller had also repeatedly dragged his case from the district court to the federal court of appeals in Washington, D.C., and back, losing every time. As of late Friday night, the Supreme Court still had not issued its decision on whether to hear the mystery companys appeal. Roger Stone, an associate of President Trump's, leaves the U.S. District Court, after a court status conference on his seven charges in Washington. (Photo: Cliff Owen/AP) Now, with the investigation officially over, it appears that both Miller and the mystery company may have been handed a new argument: The request for their documents and testimony is moot with the special counsels investigation concluded, additional fact-finding can no longer be needed for the probe. That may not, however, be the end of the matter. Muellers grand jury in Washington, D.C., the legally independent body that issued the subpoenas, had its term extended in January for up to six months, just before its initial 18-month term was set to expire. Another part of the Justice Department, such as the departments foreign influence unit or the prosecutors who take over Stones case, could seek to step in and begin working with the grand jury to obtain the witnesses testimony. Story continues In addition, two former federal prosecutors agreed that the Justice Department would likely be loath to see recalcitrant witnesses come away with such an easy victory. I think some other unit within the Justice Department will likely see it through, either [the U.S. attorney in Washington, D.C.] or maybe DOJ national security, said Harry Sandick, a former prosecutor with the Manhattan U.S. attorneys office. It would set a bad precedent for Mueller to let witnesses defeat a subpoena through delay. I think that somebody will carry on the litigation because the grand jury is still in session until June, said Elizabeth de la Vega, a former organized crime prosecutor, agreeing. This courtroom sketch depicts Rick Gates, right, testifying last year during questioning in the bank fraud and tax evasion trial of Paul Manafort. (Dana Verkouteren via AP) Peter Carr, a spokesman for the special counsels office, declined to comment on what would happen next with the contested subpoenas. Muellers investigators had also executed search warrants at Roger Stones residences in Florida and New York when they arrested him in late January, seizing computers and phones, among other things. In court filings in Stones case, prosecutors disclosed that they had seized 9 terabytes from the electronic devices they found an enormous volume of stored data roughly equivalent to 29 hours of ultra-high-resolution video. It seems unlikely that the investigators would have been able to screen and review so much material in the less than two months since the search. The special counsels office is also closing with prosecutions still pending at various stages of completion. These include defendants who are waiting only to be sentenced at the completion of their cooperation, such as retired Lt. Gen. Michael T. Flynn, Trumps first national security adviser, and Rick Gates. Defendant Stone is in the pretrial stages of his prosecution, and a large number of foreign defendants have been indicted but not arrested and brought before a court. It is unlikely they ever will be. The prosecution of Stone on charges of lying in Congressional testimony and intimidating other witnesses will go forward even though the investigation that gave rise to the charges has come to a close. Stone will be prosecuted by the U.S. attorneys office in Washington, D.C., whose prosecutors have been attached to the case since its initiation, Carr confirmed by email Friday evening. Prosecutions that may spring to life in the future, for example, if the Russian defendants associated with the Internet Research Agency were ever arrested, would be handled by other Justice Department offices associated with those cases. Whether any former special counsel attorneys will continue to participate remains to be determined, Carr wrote. The Department of Justice in Washington, Friday. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) The prosecutions of Gates, Trumps deputy campaign manager, and Flynn, however, do not have any Justice Department components other than special counsels office involved. Gatess sentencing has been serially postponed, most recently on March 15, because Gates continues to cooperate with respect to several ongoing investigations, according to a status update filed with the court. Its not clear how many of those investigations remain ongoing after Fridays announcements; the next update is due in May. Gatess sentencing, when it happens, will be handled by the U.S. attorneys office in Washington, D.C., according to Carr. Flynns sentencing was delayed late last year after the federal judge expressed his extreme distaste with Flynns conduct and offered him the chance to complete his cooperation before being sentenced, an offer the retired general decided to accept. The next status update in Flynns case is due in June. The two special counsel attorneys assigned to Flynns case, Brandon Van Grack and Zainab Ahmad, had left the special counsels office even before the conclusion of its investigation on Friday. Asked which Justice Department office would be taking over Flynns case to handle the sentencing, Carr replied: To be determined. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: Baghouz (Syria) (AFP) - Kurdish-led forces pronounced the death of the Islamic State group's nearly five-year-old "caliphate" Saturday after flushing out diehard jihadists from their very last bastion in eastern Syria. Fighters of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces raised their yellow flag in Baghouz, the remote riverside village where jihadists from many countries made a desperate last stand. The SDF's victory capped a deadly six-month operation against the final remnants of the "caliphate" which once stretched across a vast swathe of Iraq and Syria, and held seven million people in its sway. World leaders hailed the victory as a major landmark in the fight against IS and its ideology, but warned that the group that spurred a spate of global terror attacks was far from defeated. "Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and 100 percent territorial defeat of ISIS," spokesman Mustefa Bali said in a statement, using another acronym for IS. US President Donald Trump hailed the announcement but vowed to remained "vigilant" as the military coalition his country led against IS said the fight "is far from over". In Al-Omar, an oil field used by the SDF as a staging base, fighters laid down their weapons and broke into song and dance. They joined top Kurdish and Arab tribal officials, as well as a leading US envoy, for a ceremony unveiling a monument to their fallen comrades and celebrating the landmark victory. The state proclaimed in mid-2014 by fugitive IS supremo Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi started collapsing in 2017 when parallel offensives in Iraq and Syria wrested back its main hubs Mosul and Raqa. The nearly five years of fighting against the most brutal jihadist group in modern history left major cities in ruins and populations homeless. - Foreigners last - IS-held territory continued to shrink month after month and in September 2018 the SDF launched a final offensive on the last dregs of the "caliphate" in the Euphrates Valley. Story continues SDF fighters last week expelled IS fighters who refused to surrender from an encampment on the edge of Baghouz and have since been hunting down a few survivors hiding on the reedy banks of the Euphrates River. "Those who lasted the longest were mostly foreigners... Tunisians, Moroccans, Egyptians," Kurdish fighter Hisham Harun, 21, told AFP. Around him, the former jihadist encampment was littered with bullet-riddled truck carcasses, discarded suicide belts and torn tents where the caliphate's last families sheltered for weeks. Some bodies of suspected IS fighters could also be seen. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said 630 civilians, 750 SDF fighters and around 1,600 jihadists were killed in the offensive. Kurdish officers and aid groups were flummoxed by the number of people who poured out of Baghouz, a small village even few Syrians knew of until this year. As SDF forces pummelled IS positions and US warplanes dropped huge payloads on the riverside village, tens of thousands of people fled over a rocky hill. - Aid emergency - For weeks, the ghostly figures hobbled out of the besieged village, famished, often wounded but sometimes still defiantly proclaiming their support for IS. The Kurdish-led force and foreign intelligence have screened more than 60,000 people since January, around 10 percent of them jihadists turning themselves in. Most of the people evacuated from the smouldering ruins of Baghouz in recent days were relatives of IS members who now fill overcrowded camps further north in Syria's Kurdish-controlled region. The biggest of them, Al-Hol, is struggling to host 74,000 people, including at least 25,000 school-aged children. Among them are thousands of foreigners from more than 40 countries that are in most cases unwilling to take them back. "The needs are huge and the camp is overwhelmed," International Committee of the Red Cross head Peter Maurer said Friday after a five-day visit to Syria. - Still a threat - Speaking at the ceremony in Al-Omar, top SDF commander Mazloum Kobane warned that a new phase had begun in anti-IS operations. The US has vowed to draw down its forces in Syria, but Kobane appealed for sustained coalition assistance to help smash sleeper cells "which are a great threat to our region and the whole world". US coalition envoy William Roebuck agreed and said "we still have much more to do to achieve an enduring defeat" of IS. Trump vowed the United States would remain "vigilant... until it is finally defeated wherever it operates" and would continue to work with its partners "to totally crush radical Islamic terrorists". The commander of anti-IS coalition forces, Lieutenant General Paul LaCamera, echoed him saying "now is not the time to rest". "Make no mistake, Daesh is preserving their force," LaCamera said. "They have made calculated decisions to preserve what is left of their dwindling personnel and capabilities by taking their chances in camps for internally displaced persons and going to ground in remote areas. They are waiting for the right time to reemerge." French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the fall of Baghouz, saying "a significant threat to our country" has been "eliminated", while British Prime Minister Theresa May spoke of "a historic milestone". The jihadists retain a presence in eastern Syria's vast Badia desert and various other hideouts from which they could wage the kind of deadly guerrilla insurgency that accompanied the rise of the Islamic State group. John Spencer, a scholar at the Modern War Institute at West Point, warned that while the geographic caliphate had been dismantled, IS was far from defeated. IS "is a terrorist organisation, all they have to do is put down their weapons and try to blend in with the population and just escape," he told AFP. "They're not gone, and they're not going to be gone." Attorney General William Barrs letter to congressional leaders on Friday afternoon notifying them special counsel Robert Mueller had finished his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election may be opening act in a protracted political battle over the probes conclusions. In the wake of Barrs letter to the Senate and House Judiciary committees confirming that the probe was complete, multiple Democratic presidential candidates swiftly issued statements calling for the immediate release of Muellers report. As Donald Trump said, 'Let it come out.' I call on the Trump administration to make special counsel Mueller's full report public as soon as possible. No one, including the president, is above the law, said Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. California Sen. Kamala Harris sent an email to her supporters wherein she vowed not to rest until the truth is delivered publicly and in full. Heres what must happen now. We need total transparency. A declassified report must be made public immediately, and all underlying investigative materials should be handed over to Congress. Attorney General William Barr must also testify under oath before Congress about the findings of this investigation, Harris said. Muellers investigation has captured the attention of the country and President Trump, who has repeatedly dismissed it as a witch hunt. Although Trump and his allies have attempted to paint the probe as a partisan attack on the White House, the presidents opponents have eagerly awaited the conclusion of the investigation in the hopes that it will bring damaging revelations about the Trump campaigns dealings with Russia. Trump has repeatedly insisted there was no collusion between his campaign and the Kremlin. Copies of a letter from Attorney General William Barr, advising Congress that special counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his investigation, are shown Friday, March 22, 2019, in Washington. (Photo: Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP) Muellers report has been the subject of almost feverish anticipation, but it is not clear that the public will see anything beyond Barrs letter to Congress. The Special Counsel has submitted to me today a confidential report explaining the prosecution or declination decisions he has reached, Barr wrote, adding, I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. Story continues The special counsel regulations required Mueller to submit a confidential report to Barr and called for the attorney general to notify the congressional Judiciary committees. According to the rules, Barr can decide what, if anything, from Muellers report will be made public. I intend to consult with Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein and Special Counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent to the law, Barr wrote in his letter. Muellers probe has resulted in a slew of indictments and multiple convictions against a variety of targets, including Russian nationals affiliated with that countrys intelligence agencies and former members of the Trump campaign. Allegations in a series of indictments documented evidence that Russian government agents stole emails and data from Democrats and the Clinton campaign and then disseminated those messages publicly via Guccifer 2.0, a Romanian hacker persona of their own creation, and WikiLeaks. Along with spreading the stolen emails, Russian agencies worked to distribute agitprop online during the 2016 race. Muellers indictments referenced some contacts between the Russian conspirators, disguised in their hacker persona, and an outside affiliate of the Trump campaign, Roger Stone, but those contacts have not yet been shown to be incriminating. The recent indictment of Stone for lying to Congress and intimidating witnesses also alleged that he coordinated with the Trump campaign, which was eager to learn about the content and planned WikiLeaks release of the Democrats stolen emails. However, this behavior has not been charged as or shown to be a crime. The prosecutors on Muellers team also won convictions against Trumps ex-campaign chairman Paul Manafort and the presidents former longtime personal attorney, Michael Cohen, in a separate series of indictments. The charges against the two men stemmed from their personal finances and, in Cohens case, false statements to Congress about a Trump real estate project in Moscow. President Donald Trump talks with reporters Friday before boarding Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Other guilty pleas secured by Muellers prosecutors have shown that Trump associates lied about key interactions they had with Russians. George Papadopoulos, a Trump campaign foreign policy adviser, admitted he lied about an approach he received from a shadowy Maltese professor and his Russian associates and they discussed the possibility of a meeting between then-candidate Trump and the Kremlin. The professor also told Papadopoulos that the Russians had thousands of Clinton emails, which constituted dirt on her. Although the factual narrative that accompanied Papadopolouss guilty plea detailed his discussions within the campaign about a potential meeting with Moscow, it did not describe the extent to which Clintons emails were discussed within Trumps team. Michael Flynn, another campaign foreign policy adviser who would go on to serve as Trumps first national security adviser, admitted to lying about his coordination with a Russian official on sanctions relief and a vote at the United Nations after the campaign was over. Additionally, Flynn admitted that he lied about his work for Turkey during the campaign. Ultimately, although Mueller revealed a number of contacts between Trump associates and Russia during the campaign, he never charged them as part of a conspiracy or revealed to what degree the Trump campaign was involved in those efforts. That central lingering question is one of the reasons Muellers report has been so highly anticipated. As the probe unfolded, there was turmoil within the Justice Department that led to doubts about who would oversee Mueller and whether the presidents allies might interfere with his work. The investigation began in the wake of a January 2017 U.S. intelligence community assessment that concluded the Russian government intervened in the 2016 election in order to boost Trump and hurt his Democratic Party rival, Hillary Clinton. That report did not indicate that Trumps campaign cooperated with the effort. Mueller was subsequently appointed to lead this investigation in May 2017 by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who was appointed by Trump, recused himself from the probe due to his involvement with the Trump campaign and contacts with Russias ambassador to the United States during the 2016 election. Robert Mueller leaves the U.S. Capitol Building in 2017. REUTERS/Aaron P. Bernstein Along with regularly blasting the Mueller probe, Trump repeatedly criticized Sessionss decision to recuse himself. Trumps anger led to lingering tensions that culminated in his request for Sessions to resign last November. Sessions was replaced on an acting basis by his former chief of staff, Matthew Whitaker, who had openly criticized the Mueller investigation. Eventually, Barr, who had also criticized the Mueller probe, was confirmed as attorney general. Democrats raised concerns about both Whitaker and Barrs oversight of the investigation due to their past critiques of it. Those worries were amplified by reports that Trump sought to have Justice Department leadership derail attempts to investigate his campaign. Now, with the investigation complete, the White House and Trumps legal team indicated they were comfortable leaving the fate of the report in Barrs hands. The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the special counsels report, said White House press secretary Sarah Sanders. Rudy Giuliani and Jay Sekulow, the counselors to the president, released a joint statement that said they were pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the Attorney General pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps, the statement said. The one person who has not, so far, made a public statement about the investigations conclusion is Trump. The president has not tweeted about the conclusion of the Mueller probe for now. Read more from Yahoo News: BEIRUT (AP) The Islamic State group erupted from the chaos of Syria and Iraq's conflicts and swiftly did what no Islamic militant group had done before, conquering a giant stretch of territory and declaring itself a "caliphate." Its territorial rule, which at its height in 2014 stretched across nearly a third of both Syria and Iraq, ended with a last stand by several hundred of its militants at a tiny Syrian village on the banks of the Euphrates near the border with Syria. Here are the key moments in the rise and fall of the Islamic State group: ___ April 2013 Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of al-Qaida's branch in Iraq, announces the merger of his group with al-Qaida's franchise in Syria, forming the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and expanding his reach into neighboring Syria. ___ 2014 January Al-Baghdadi's forces overrun the city of Fallujah in Iraq's western Anbar province and parts of the nearby provincial capital of Ramadi. In Syria, they seize sole control of the city of Raqqa after driving out rival Syrian rebel factions, and it becomes their de facto capital. ___ February Al-Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahri disavows al-Baghdadi after the Iraqi militant ignores his demands that IS leave Syria. ___ June IS captures Mosul, Iraqi's second-largest city, and pushes south as Iraqi forces crumble, eventually capturing Saddam Hussein's hometown of Tikrit and reaching the outskirts of Baghdad. When they threaten Shiite holy sites, Iraq's top Shiite cleric issues a call to arms, and masses of volunteers, largely backed and armed by Iran, join militias. ___ June 29 The group renames itself the Islamic State and declares the establishment of a self-styled "caliphate," a traditional model of Islamic rule, in its territories in Iraq and Syria. Al-Baghdadi is declared the caliph. ___ July 4 Al-Baghdadi makes his first public appearance, delivering a Friday sermon in Mosul's historic al-Nuri Mosque. He urges Muslims around the world to swear allegiance to the caliphate and obey him as its leader. Story continues ___ August IS captures the town of Sinjar west of Mosul and begins a systematic slaughter of the tiny Yazidi religious community. Women and girls are kidnapped as sex slaves; hundreds remain missing to this day. ___ Aug. 8 The U.S. launches its campaign of airstrikes against IS in Iraq. ___ Sept. 22 - The U.S.-led coalition begins an aerial campaign against IS in Syria. ___ 2015 January Iraqi Kurdish fighters, backed by U.S.-led airstrikes, drive IS out of several towns north of Mosul. In Syria, Kurdish fighters backed by U.S. airstrikes repel an IS onslaught on the town of Kobani on the border with Turkey, the first significant defeat for IS. ___ April 1 U.S.-backed Iraqi forces retake Tikrit, their first major victory against IS. ___ May 20 IS captures the ancient Syrian town of Palmyra, where the extremists later destroy archaeological treasures. ___ 2016 Feb. 9 Iraqi forces recapture Ramadi after months of fighting and at enormous cost, with thousands of buildings destroyed. Almost the entire population fled the city. ___ June 26 Fallujah is declared liberated by Iraqi forces after a five-week battle. ___ July 3 IS sets off a gigantic suicide truck bomb outside a Baghdad shopping mall, killing almost 300 people, the deadliest attack in Iraq since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion. ___ Oct. 17 Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi announces the start of the operation to liberate Mosul. ___ Oct. 21 IS militants and sleeper cells stage a wave of attacks with suicide blasts in the central Iraqi city of Kirkuk, killing at least 80 people in an attempt to divert attention from Mosul. ___ Nov. 5 The U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces launch Operation Euphrates Wrath, the first of five operations aiming to retake Raqqa, starting with an encircling of the city. ___ 2017 Jan. 24 Al-Abadi announces eastern Mosul has been "fully liberated." ___ Feb. 19 Iraqi forces begin the assault on western Mosul, taking the city's airport and nearby military base within four days. ___ May 10 SDF captures the strategic Tabqa dam after weeks of battles and a major airlift operation that brought SDF fighters and their U.S. advisers to the area. The fall of the dam facilitated the push on Raqqa, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. ___ June 6 SDF fighters begin an attack on Raqqa from three sides, backed by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes. ___ June 18 Iraqi forces launch battle for Mosul's Old City, the last IS stronghold there. ___ June 21 IS destroys Mosul's iconic al-Nuri Mosque and its 12th century leaning minaret as Iraqi forces close in, according to Iraqi and coalition officials. __ July 10 Iraqi prime minister declares victory over IS in Mosul and end of the extremists' caliphate in Iraq. ___ Oct. 17 SDF takes full control of Raqqa after months of heavy bombardment that devastates the city. ___ September-December Syrian government forces, backed by Russian air power and Iranian forces, recapture IS territory on the western bank of the Euphrates River, seizing the cities of Deir el-Zour, Mayadin and Boukamal on the border with Iraq. ___ 2018 Aug. 23 IS leader al-Baghdadi resurfaces in his first purported audio recording in almost a year; he urges followers to "persevere" and continue fighting. ___ Sept. 10 SDF launches a ground offensive, backed by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes, to take the last territory held by IS in Syria's eastern province of Deir el-Zour. ___ 2019 February-March SDF besiege IS in the village of Baghouz, the last scrap of land the group holds. The advance stalls as some 30,000 civilians, mostly families of IS members, are evacuated from the pocket over the course of weeks. March 23 SDF declares the complete capture of Baghouz and the end of the Islamic State group's territorial "caliphate." Indonesia's capital inaugurated its first mass rapid transit system on Sunday, a $1.1 billion project seen as crucial to tackling some of the world's worst traffic congestion. President Joko Widodo and other officials joined a ceremony in Jakarta to give a green light for the 16-kilometre (10 mile) line, almost six years after construction began on the Japanese-backed project. Tens of thousands of excited Jakartans were in attendance and eager to try riding on the subway for the first time, mobbing the president for selfies while music blared and traditional performers danced on a nearby stage. "Honestly I am so happy," office worker Mutia Fitrianti told AFP. "Now we don't have to go abroad just to ride an MRT." The train system runs above and below ground and stretches from the central Hotel Indonesia to the southern reaches of the Southeast Asian megalopolis of some 30 million people. It aims to cut travel times between the two points to just 30 minutes from around two hours, offering some relief to frustrated commuters long used to spending much of their day stuck in traffic. The new line is set to open to the public on Monday, with tickets free during the first week. Construction on a second line linking downtown to Jakarta's northern port is also kicking off Sunday with completion slated for 2024, and more lines are envisioned in the future. A separate elevated rail network is also being built to link satellite cities with Jakarta, nicknamed the Big Durian after the pungent fruit that bitterly divides fans and its detractors. The public transit projects are part of a sweeping infrastructure push that Widodo hopes will boost the fortunes of Southeast Asia's biggest economy -- and get him re-elected in national polls next month. "If we have and integrated transportation system, it will be easier for people to go places and they will leave their cars or motorcycles at home," Widodo told journalists on Sunday. Story continues - Clogged streets - Over the past decade, rising incomes in the country of 260 million have created a ballooning middle class and sent vehicle ownership soaring. But that's also brought hazardous air pollution and annual economic losses that run into the billions as cars crawl along the capital's roadways in the steamy tropical heat -- alongside an underused bus system. Environmentalists hope that the new line will cut traffic-linked carbon emissions by about half. It could also make a dent in annual economic losses of some 65 trillion Rupiah ($4.6 billion) linked to road congestion, according to government figures. The multi-billion dollar project is funded through a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). "We think MRT Jakarta is the project of the century for us," JICA senior vice president Tanaka Yasushi told reporters. But transport analysts have cautioned that the new line and cheap prices will not cure the traffic woes of a city infatuated with private vehicles and with few decent sidewalks. "The MRT won't immediately ease the traffic because changing the culture and attitudes isn't easy," Hendi Bowoputro, a public transit expert at the University of Brawijaya, told AFP before the inauguration. And the line's expected 130,000 daily passengers represent only about 10 percent of those who already cram into a decades-old commuter rail network. (Reuters) - Carmen Yulin Cruz, the mayor of Puerto Rico's capital San Juan and a fierce adversary of President Donald Trump, said on Friday she was running for governor of the U.S. territory in 2020. Cruz gained international attention in 2017 when she sparred with Trump over the speed and scale of the federal response to Hurricane Maria, which devastated her Caribbean island. "The day after the hurricane, it was clear that President Trump and his Republican government were going to leave us to die," Cruz, 56, said in her announcement speech, wearing a T-shirt reading "Without Fear." "The governor of Puerto Rico and the resident commissioner put their political interests in front of the country's needs and kept quiet." Cruz will face Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rossello, 40, in the 2020 November general elections. Rossello, of the New Progressive Party which backs Puerto Rico becoming a U.S. state, is seeking a second term. Cruz is a member of the Popular Democratic Party, which supports Puerto Rico remaining a Commonwealth of the United States with self government. She is also a co-chair of Senator Bernie Sanders' 2020 presidential campaign. She is in favor of eliminating a federal financial oversight board tasked with managing the territory's finances. The island is navigating the largest government bankruptcy in U.S. history, with $120 billion of combined bond and pension debt when it declared bankruptcy in May 2017 after more than a decade of recession. (Reporting by Andrew Hay; Editing by James Dalgleish) President Donald Trump scrapped new financial sanctions against the North Korean government Friday, just one day after his own Treasury Department announced them. It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions! Trump tweeted shortly after arriving at his club in Palm Beach, Florida. It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 The Treasury Department had slapped sanctions against two China-based shipping companies that were alleged to aid North Korea in circumventing U.S. and international sanctions. The measures were part of a larger international effort to squeeze Pyongyangs economy and urge North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to unwind his nuclear weapon and missile program. The United States and our like-minded partners remain committed to achieving the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea and believe that the full implementation of North Korea-related UN Security Council resolutions is crucial to a successful outcome, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said in a statement. Treasury will continue to enforce our sanctions, and we are making it explicitly clear that shipping companies employing deceptive tactics to mask illicit trade with North Korea expose themselves to great risk. Trumps own National Security Advisor John Bolton had praised the designations Thursday as important actions, adding that American adversaries should take notice if they are doing business with Pyongyang. Important actions today from @USTreasury; the maritime industry must do more to stop North Koreas illicit shipping practices. Everyone should take notice and review their own activities to ensure they are not involved in North Koreas sanctions evasion. https://t.co/AVnOPrWbH6 John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) March 21, 2019 The Presidents decision comes as intelligence officials are increasingly frustrated to see Trump ignore warnings from the intelligence community that Kim is showing no signs of relenting to international pressure. Story continues TIME exclusively reported Wednesday that Trump had sidelined his own lead negotiator, Stephen Biegun, and had brushed aside and intelligence assessment that North Korea would not give up its nuclear program. Trump believes his own personal relationship with Kim would convince the North Korean dictator to abandon his countrys decades-old effort to be able to hit the U.S. mainland with a nuclear strike. President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesnt think these sanctions will be necessary, said White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders in a statement Friday when asked about the White Houses reversal on the North Korean sanctions. Trumps move reveals a split in the administration following the failed Hanoi summit with Kim in February. According to officials familiar with the policy deliberations, Bolton has favored increasing the economic pressure on Kim to abandon his countrys nuclear weapons program in exchange for a gradual elimination of the sanctions on his poverty-stricken nation. Trump, however, wants to keep the door open to resuming negotiations because he continues to believe that he and Kim have a friendly relationship that in time can lead to an agreement, the officials said. Bolton favors the stick, but the President still thinks the economic carrot will being Kim around, one of the officials said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to describe internal discussions. With reporting from John Walcott in Washington President Donald Trump tweeted Friday that he has reversed his administration's decision to slap new sanctions on North Korea, with his press secretary explaining that the president "likes" leader Kim Jong Un and doesn't think they're necessary. It's unclear, however, which sanctions the president was referencing in his tweet, which took Treasury officials by surprise. "It was announced today by the US Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea," Trump wrote from his private club in Palm Beach, Florida. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" The White House did not immediately respond to questions about which sanctions Trump was referring to, or what large-scale sanctions were poised to be added to existing ones already imposed on North Korea. On Thursday, his administration did sanction two Chinese shipping companies suspected of helping North Korea evade sanctions the first targeted actions taken against Pyongyang since Trump and Kim met in Hanoi, Vietnam, last month for negotiations about North Korea's nuclear weapons program. In addition to Trump's talks with North Korea, the US is knee-deep in delicate trade negotiations with China. A person familiar with the action told The Associated Press that Trump's tweet was not a reversal of existing sanctions, but that the president was talking about not going forward with additional large-scale sanctions on North Korea at this time. The person was not authorised to discuss the president's comments and spoke on condition of anonymity. It's unclear whether Trump's decision was related to North Korea's move on Friday to abruptly withdraw its staff from a liaison office with South Korea. The development is likely to put a damper on ties between the North and South and further complicate global diplomacy on North Korea's nuclear program. The withdrawal also is seen as a major setback for South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has sought improved relations with North Korea alongside the nuclear negotiations between the North and the United States. Story continues North Korea said it was withdrawing its staff under instructions from unspecified "higher-level authorities," according to a Unification Ministry statement. It didn't say whether the withdrawal would be temporary or permanent. South Korea called the North's decision regrettable and urged the North to return its staff to the liaison office soon. It was the latest example of Trump's governance-by-tweet, which has often sent agency heads scrambling, trying to figure out what he meant and trying to implement policy proclamations that have not gone through traditional vetting processes. That includes when Trump announced, via tweet, that transgender people would no longer be allowed to serve in the military. And it came hours after Trump made the official announcement that Islamic State-controlled territory in Syria had been reduced to zero from an airport tarmac, using a printed map he held upside-down, instead of a formal statement or ceremony. His North Korea tweet prompted reporters to bombard officials at the White House National Security Council and Treasury Department with questions. All declined to comment. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders issued a brief statement saying only that Trump "likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary." When the administration announced the sanctions on Thursday against the Chinese shipping companies, administration officials briefed reporters. They said Thursday's sanctions were evidence the U.S. was maintaining pressure on North Korea in an effort to coax its leader to give up his nuclear weapons program. The Treasury Department sanctioned Dalian Haibo International Freight Co. Ltd. and Liaoning Danxing International Forwarding Co. Ltd. for using deceptive methods to circumvent international and US sanctions and the US commitment to implementing existing U.N. Security Council resolutions. Calls to the two companies rang without response Friday or were answered by people who immediately hung up the phone. The Treasury Department, in coordination with the State Department and the US Coast Guard, also updated a North Korea shipping advisory, adding dozens of vessels thought to be doing ship-to-ship transfers with North Korean tankers or exported North Korean coal in violation of sanctions. Two senior administration officials, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity to discuss US policy on North Korea, said that illegal ship-to-ship transfers that violate U.S. and international sanctions have increased and that not all countries, including China, are implementing the restrictions. They said the deceptive practices include disabling or manipulating ship identification systems, repainting the names on vessels and falsifying cargo documents. Associated Press By Ali Kucukgocmen and Jonathan Spicer ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey's banking watchdog said it had launched an investigation into JP Morgan and other banks over complaints it received after the lira plunged more than 4 percent and the main share index fell sharply on Friday. The BDDK watchdog said on Saturday it received complaints that a report JP Morgan published on Friday hurt the reputation of Turkish banks and caused volatility in financial markets. The necessary "administrative and judicial processes" would be followed, it said. The Capital Markets Board of Turkey (SPK) also said it had launched a probe after receiving complaints that a JP Morgan report was "misleading" and caused speculation on the Istanbul bourse. A JP Morgan spokesman for the region declined to comment. The Turkish lira tumbled more than 4 per cent against the U.S. dollar on Friday, its biggest one-day fall since a currency crisis took hold in August, raising concerns that Turks are buying more foreign cash as ties with Washington deteriorate. The regulators' actions are the latest official measures to counter the lira's sharp decline. The central bank said on Friday it was suspending one-week repo auctions "for a period of time", a policy tightening move to squeeze market liquidity and support the lira. A copy of the JP Morgan report seen by Reuters said it saw a high risk that the lira would decline after local elections set for 31 March, recommending clients to go 'long' on the U.S. dollar. Such advice is typical of client notes from banks globally. BDDK also said it was looking into claims that "some banks" had lead clients to buy foreign currencies in a manipulative and misleading way, and that the necessary administrative and judicial processes would be followed. The watchdog did not say which those banks were, or if they were Turkish or foreign. The total forex deposits and funds including precious metals of Turkish individuals hit a record high of $105.74 billion in the week to March 15, data from the central bank showed on Thursday. Turkey's main index BIST100 was down 3.45 percent at Friday's close, while the banking index had declined 6.64 percent. (Additional reporting by Umit Bektas and Nevzat Devranoglu; Editing by Clelia Oziel and Angus MacSwan) BAGHOUZ, Syria (Reuters) - U.S.-backed Syrian forces were sweeping on Thursday through the final enclave that had been held by Islamic State fighters, and said they would declare the group defeated once a search for hidden mines and jihadist holdouts was complete. "Our forces are still conducting combing and search operations and as soon as they are finished we will announce the liberation," Mustafa Bali, spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces, said in a note to journalists. Bali told Reuters the operation included sweeping for mines and combing for fighters still hidden in trenches and tunnels dug beneath Baghouz, the last patch of Islamic State territory. (How Islamic State lost Syria: https://tmsnrt.rs/2O7l4mN) The last clashes reported by the SDF were on Tuesday, indicating that major fighting is over in the last big battle of a five year international campaign against a self-proclaimed caliphate that once comprised a third of both Iraq and Syria. The SDF, backed by U.S. air power, swept on Tuesday into a camp where hundreds of fighters had been making their last stand with thousands of civilians, many their own wives and children. The situation in Baghouz appeared calm for a second consecutive day, a Reuters journalist in Baghouz said. Warplanes with the U.S.-led coalition, including drones, could be seen overhead. A news outlet with close ties to the Syrian Kurdish-led authorities, Hawar, reported that the operation was now finished and Islamic State defeated. But an SDF denial swiftly made clear it was not quite prepared to declare victory yet. A propaganda video carrying the mark of an Islamic State news outlet and distributed among online followers of the group on Thursday showed footage from inside Baghouz and a fighter calling for Muslims in Western countries to stage attacks. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) said another 2,000 women and children had arrived late on Wednesday at the al-Hol camp in northeastern Syria that has received tens of thousands of people who have poured out of the shrinking Islamic State territory. "These women and children are in the worst condition we have seen since the crisis first began. Many have been caught up in the fighting and dozens have been burnt or badly injured by shrapnel," Wendy Taeuber, IRCs Iraq and northeast Syria country director, said in a statement. "We are expecting another 3,000 to arrive soon and we are very worried that they may be in even worse shape." A report issued by the United Nations' population fund, the UNFPA, on Thursday said "it is estimated that around 7,000 people are still inside" Baghouz, without elaborating. The al-Hol camp is now holding more than 72,000 people, including more than 40,000 children, IRC said. The total number of deaths on the way to it or shortly after arriving now stood at 138, the overwhelming number of them babies and infants. Of the 1,248 pregnant women and girls in the camp, up to 15 percent were younger than 18, the UNFPA said. Though the defeat of Islamic State at Baghouz ends its grip over populated territory, it remains a threat, with fighters operating in remote territory elsewhere and capable of mounting insurgent attacks. The U.S. military has warned that Islamic State may still count tens of thousands of fighters, dispersed throughout Iraq and Syria, with enough leaders and resources to present a menacing insurgency. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, on a visit to Jerusalem, told reporters victory was "close". He was proud of "the work that the United States did, the Department of Defense did, that the folks fighting down in the Euphrates river valley did", he said. "The threat from radical Islamic terrorism remains. We need to finish out the last few square meters there, in Syria. Still work to do." The Pentagon's internal watchdog released a report last month saying Islamic State remained an active insurgent group and was regenerating functions and capabilities more quickly in Iraq than in Syria. The group could resurge in Syria within 6-12 months and regain limited territory without sustained pressure. The United States believes Iraq is the location of its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who stood at the pulpit of the great medieval mosque in Mosul in 2014 to declare himself caliph, sovereign over all Muslims. (Additional reporting by Rodi Said in Qamishli and a Reuters journalist in Baghouz, Syria; Writing by Tom Perry in Beirut; Editing by Peter Graff and Alison Williams) GENEVA, March 22 (Reuters) - The United Nations Human Rights Council on Friday condemned Israel's "apparent intentional use of unlawful lethal and other excessive force" against civilian protesters in Gaza and called for perpetrators of all violations in the strip to face justice. The Geneva forum adopted a resolution on accountability, brought by Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), by a vote of 23 states in favor, 8 against with 15 abstentions. European countries were divided. The United States does not participate, having quit the body last year over perceived anti-Israel bias. The text was based on a report by a U.N. inquiry which said that Israeli security forces may have committed war crimes and crimes against humanity in killing 189 Palestinians and wounding more than 6,100 at weekly protests last year. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay Editing by Peter Graff) (Reuters) - U.S. Republican Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn on Thursday pressed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to release six executives from Houston-based oil company Citgo Petroleum that have been in jail in the country since 2017. The former top employees of Venezuelan PDVSA's refining subsidiary, most of whom are U.S. citizens, were arrested in late 2017 and accused of embezzlement and money laundering linked to talks to refinance Citgo's debt. Family members of Jose Luis Zambrano, Alirio Zambrano, Jorge Toledo, Tomeu Vadell, Gustavo Cardenas and Jose Pereira have asked the U.S. government to intervene, citing health concerns for the men. Venezuela has denied them contact with U.S. State Department representatives, the two senators said. "We are gravely concerned for their health and safety as they continue to be used as political pawns by an illegitimate government. We call for their immediate release," the senators said in a release. The Venezuelan government is battling over Citgo with a group led by Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido, which has appointed its own board to run Citgo. Elliott Abrams, the U.S. special representative for Venezuela, earlier this month told senators the Trump administration has been unable to get consular access to the six executives despite court orders issued for their release. "We will continue to work with the administration to ensure these aggressive actions by the Maduro regime are met with the appropriate action," the senators said. (Reporting by Marianna Parraga; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) Roberto Marrero, pictured left, was taken away by intelligence agents and accused of leading a The Trump administration on Friday announced additional sanctions for Venezuela in response to what it describes as the illegal arrest of opposition leader Juan Guaido's chief of staff. The Treasury Department announcement came while the President Donald Trump met with leaders from five Caribbean nations, where Venezuela was at the top of the agenda. The region has been far from united in joining the US call for the ouster of President Nicolas Maduro. The department is specifically targeting Venezuela's national development bank, BANDES, and four additional subsidiaries that BANDES owns or controls. "The regime's continued use of kidnapping, torture, and murder of Venezuelan citizens will not be tolerated by the U.S. or the international coalition that is united behind President Guaido," said Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. "Roberto Marrero and other political prisoners must be released immediately." The US had already sanctioned scores of top Venezuelan officials and has blocked US banks from doing business with that country, imposing a financial strangle-hold on the cash-strapped nation. The sanctions announced on Friday also came as members of Congress from both parties condemned the arrest of Mr Marrero, who was later accused by the country's interior minister of leading a "terrorist cell". They described it as a kidnapping. "The international community is closely watching Maduro's actions and will respond accordingly to any that threaten the safety of the opposition and Interim President Juan Guaido," said Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas. Mr Trump is hosting the leaders of Jamaica, Bahamas, Haiti, Dominican Republic and St. Lucia at his Mar-a-Lago club to show his support for Caribbean countries that back democratic transition in Venezuela. The five have either denounced Mr Maduro or joined more than 50 countries in recognising Juan Guaido as the rightful interim leader of the nation. Story continues Mr Trump told the leaders as the meeting kicked off that he would be "discussing ways that we can be beneficial to you and you can be beneficial to us." The Trump administration considers Mr Maduro's government a dictatorship and says he was re-elected in an illegitimate election. The country is in an economic meltdown and millions of Venezuelans have fled. "As President Trump clearly stated, the toughest sanctions are yet to come," national security adviser John Bolton said in a tweet on Thursday. "Unless Maduro's usurpation ends, he and his cronies will be strangled financially. The window is closing." White House press secretary Sarah Sanders says Mr Trump will use the meeting to thank the leaders for their support for peace and democracy in Venezuela and discuss potential opportunities for energy investment. Nations in the Caribbean, however, have been split on whether to interfere in Venezuela. For years, Venezuela has provided a reliable supply of oil to many Caribbean nations. They purchased the oil under the PetroCaribe arrangement, which gave them low-interest credit terms, but have left them indebted to Caracas. Ms Sanders said Mr Trump will also use the meeting to strengthen cooperation and counter "China's predatory economic practices." Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and other Trump administration officials have told countries that they should beware of Chinese investment opportunities. It's unclear how well Mr Trump's message will be received. The US has a long history of interventions - military and otherwise - in Latin America. And Mr Trump has not always been kind to impoverished nations like some in the region. Last year, while meeting with senators on immigration, Mr Trump questioned why the United States would accept more immigrants from Haiti and "s--hole countries" in Africa, according to one participant and people briefed on the conversation. A Pew Research Center report published Thursday shows how staggeringly pessimistic Americans are about where the country is heading. When Americans peer 30 years into the future, they see a country in decline economically, politically and on the world stage, the report says. While 56 percent of Americans say they are somewhat or very optimistic about the U.S. over the next 30 years, the public is decidedly gloomier when asked about specific issues. Majorities of Americans predict that, by 2050, the economy will be weaker, standards of living will be lower, health care will be less affordable, the national debt will be larger and the condition of the environment will be worse. And a large majority sees a broken political system largely incapable of facing those challenges. The full 58-page report is worth a look, but here a few charts that stand out. Partisan differences on what government should do: Among all adults, health care and increased spending on education topped the list of policies that the public believes the federal government should enact to improve the quality of life for future generations, the Pew report says. Yet the top-three Republican priorities reducing the number of undocumented immigrants, cutting the national debt and avoiding tax increases dont even appear among the Democrats highest five priorities. And three of the top five Democratic priorities arent on the GOP list. Health care, education and national debt are top priorities: More than two-thirds of Americans say that providing high-quality, affordable health care for all should be a top priority for the government, while slightly more than half say that increased spending on education should be a primary emphasis. Skepticism about the future of Social Security: Most Americans say that, in 30 years, seniors will be less prepared for retirement than the current generation. Most Americans 74 percent dont want Social Security benefits to be cut in any way, and just 25 percent say that some reductions will have to be made (see chart below). But among those now in the workforce, 42 percent expect that Social Security wont provide any benefits once they retire, while another 42 percent expect reduced benefits. Almost half of Americans (48 percent) younger than 50 expect to receive no Social Security benefits when they retire. Like what you're reading? Sign up for our free newsletter. Kinshasa (AFP) - The United States on Friday placed new sanctions on three Democratic Republic of Congo officials who monitored last year's poll, including electoral commission head Corneille Nangaa. The US Treasury sanctions also target commission vice president Norbert Basengezi and Marcellin Mukolo Basengezi, a son of Basengezi who is an adviser to Nangaa. Washington accuses the trio of corruption and of obstructing democracy in Decembers presidential election. "Yesterday, the US government imposed further sanctions on #DRC officials responsible for undermining the countrys democratic process," tweeted US ambassador Mike Hammer. "We remain committed to working with President Tshisekedi in an effort to create a more peaceful and prosperous future for the Congolese people," added Hammer. On Thursday, the US had demanded that Kinshasa release "accurate" election results, or face sanctions for undermining democracy. "This action follows persistent corruption by senior officials within the DRCs National Independent Electoral Commission (CENI) and the former Kabila government to obstruct and delay preparations for credible and inclusive elections," said Sigal Mandelker, Treasury Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. The Treasury found that "under Nangaa's leadership, CENI officials inflated by as much as $100 million the costs for the electronic voting machine contract with the intent to use surplus funds for personal enrichment, bribes, and campaign costs to fund the election campaign of Kabila's candidate." The voting machines were bought from a South Korean company. Mandelker said the Americans "remain concerned about a flawed electoral process in which, following the presidential election, CENI continued to obstruct the democratic process and failed to ensure the vote reflected the will of the Congolese people." Basengezi is accused of delivering bribes to constitutional court judges "to uphold a decision by the CENI to delay DRC's 2016 elections." Story continues The poll saw Felix Tshisekedi controversially declared the winner, marking the country's first peaceful handover of power since independence from Belgium in 1960. Fellow opposition leader Martin Fayalu insisted he had won the poll by a wide margin in a disputed contest mired by fraud allegations. The poll commission found Tshisekedi the winner and the constitutional court ratified the result, allowing him to be invested on January 24 with Kabila present. The election was delayed several times as outgoing President Joseph Kabila clung to power having been scheduled to step down at the end of 2016. Fayalu accused the commission of "fabricating" results. Kabila retains considerable influence as his Common Front for Congo (FCC) wields a huge majority in the National Assembly, which also held elections on December 30. The US State Department last month announced a first raft of sanctions against Nangaa and the chairman of the constitutional court, including barring them from visiting the United States, citing "legitimate concerns" over the election. North Korea announced it would withdraw from the inter-Korean liaison office opened in September - KOREA POOL via YONHAP Donald Trump said on Friday that he would lift economic sanctions linked to North Korea which his own administration had announced just 24 hours earlier. In a bizarre public about-turn, the US president tweeted that he would withdraw the sanctions despite two members of his cabinet endorsing them on Thursday. His comment appeared to refer to the US Treasurys action against two Chinese shipping companies who were punished for helping North Korea evade existing sanctions. It was the first time fresh sanctions over North Korea had been imposed since Mr Trump and Kim Jong-uns talks in Vietnam collapsed without a deal on denuclearisation last month. Mr Trump tweeted: It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 The US presidents reference to today triggered confusion. No new action that matched the description was announced on Friday and it appeared he was actually discussing Thursday's move. No detailed explanation was given for the change of heart. Sarah Sanders, the White House press secretary, said: President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesnt think these sanctions will be necessary. The about-turn was embarrassing given that both Steven Mnuchin, the US Treasury secretary, and John Bolton, the White House national security adviser, endorsed the sanctions on Thursday. The renewed tension comes less than a month after Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un met in Hanoi Credit: White House Photo/Shealah Craighead/Handout Mr Bolton, who is believed to have pushed for a tougher line on Pyongyang since joining the White House, had tweeted that the sanctions amounted to important actions. Mr Mnuchin was quoted in a government press release saying: Treasury will continue to enforce our sanctions, and we are making it explicitly clear that shipping companies employing deceptive tactics to mask illicit trade with North Korea expose themselves to great risk. Story continues One possible cause for the change in US position was North Koreas decision to pull out of an inter-Korean liaison office on Friday a step back for dialogue with South Korea. The move came a week after Choe Son-hui, Pyongyangs vice foreign minister, threatened to pull out of nuclear negotiations with the US, citing a lack of American steps to match disarmament measures the North took last year. The US has ramped up the pressure on North Korea by drafting additional sanctions Credit: ED JONES/AFP/Getty Images Friday's withdrawal from the office, which was opened last September in the North Korean border city of Kaesong, represents a major setback for Moon Jae-in, the Souths president. He had been seeking improved relations with Pyongyang alongside the nuclear talks between the North and the US. Mr Moon's office said on Friday that his national security adviser, Chung Eui-yong, had convened an emergency meeting of the National Security Council to discuss the withdrawal. The US Treasurys initial announcement froze the US property and interests of two companies which it said used deceptive practices to help North Korea obtain oil and other goods banned under United Nations sanctions. Pyongyang has signalled its anger at the renewed pressure. On Thursday, an article in Rodong Sinmun, the mouthpiece of the Workers Party of Korea, said the nation would rather starve or freeze to death than give up its self-esteem. Progress to convince North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons has stalled since two days of talks between Mr Trump and Kim were held in Hanoi, Vietnams capital, last month. Despite upbeat comments from both leaders throughout the summit both sides hit an impasse, with Pyongyang insisting all sanctions imposed since 2016 were lifted in turn for the destruction of a key nuclear complex. Washington (AFP) - The US public and Washington's deeply divided political class on Sunday faced another day of anxiously waiting to learn if the key findings of the Russian meddling probe will implicate President Donald Trump in serious wrongdoing. Special Counsel Robert Mueller submitted the confidential final report on his 22-month investigation Friday and Attorney General Bill Barr has been studying the document, which he must summarize for Congress. The Justice Department had told legislators that Barr would not be sending an outline of its "principal conclusions" -- expected over the weekend -- on Saturday, according to US media. That left the American public still in the dark over what the Mueller investigation uncovered about the president's ties to Russia and alleged acts of obstruction of justice. Chronic tweeter Trump, who was spending the weekend at his Palm Beach, Florida Mar-a-Lago residence, remained uncommonly silent after spending two years repeatedly labeling Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation an illegal witch hunt. After the president spent the morning golfing, White House spokesman Hogan Gidley confirmed that they still had not seen the report or been briefed on its findings. Asked how the president felt, Gidley replied: "He's good." Meanwhile, Democrats in Congress, many of whom are hoping for evidence to support a presidential impeachment, pressed hard to ensure the report's full contents are made public, and not just a summary prepared by the Trump-appointed Barr. Neal Katyal, the former Justice Department official who drafted the rules for special counsels, said Barr had no excuse for keeping Mueller's report secret. - No new indictments - "Absolutely nothing in the law or the regulations prevents the report from becoming public," Katyal said in a Washington Post opinion piece. The secret report was handed to Barr on Friday with the announcement that no new indictments were forthcoming. Story continues That produced sighs of relief from the White House, where members of Trump's family -- Don Jr. and son-in-law Jared Kushner in particular -- had been feared possible targets of the probe. For Trump himself, Mueller was prevented by longstanding Justice Department policy from indicting the president. But his report could still outline criminal behavior by Trump that could be the basis for an impeachment effort. Mueller, a 74-year-old veteran criminal prosecutor and former FBI chief, investigated whether members of Trump's campaign colluded with Russians to skew the 2016 election. In addition, he studied whether actions by Trump, including the May 2017 firing of FBI director James Comey, amounted to criminal obstruction of justice. At the end of the probe, he was required to produce to Barr a confidential report that explained why he decided to indict or not indict subjects of the probe. Barr must summarize the report for Congress. He said in a letter to congressional leaders Friday that he is "committed to as much transparency as possible." However, the special counsel regulations "give Barr lots of discretion about what to disclose," said Andrew Coan, a University of Arizona law professor. "The selective release of exculpatory material is a possibility worth watching for," Coan warned. - 34 already charged - Analysts cautioned about reaching any conclusions, saying nothing is yet known about the form or length of the report. "The president should wait before popping the champagne corks over this and tweeting in triumph," Benjamin Wittes, a prominent Washington legal analyst, wrote on the Lawfare website. Mueller indicted 34 individuals during the probe, among them six Trump associates, including his former national security advisor Mike Flynn, his former personal lawyer Michael Cohen, and campaign chairman Paul Manafort. Five of the six have pleaded guilty to the charges against them. Court filings in those cases painted a broad picture of a cohesive Russian effort via hacking and social media manipulation to swing the election in Trump's favor against Democrat Hillary Clinton. The investigation has revealed scores of contacts between the campaign and Russians, with members of the team readily talking to the Russians about obtaining dirt on Clinton. Hours before Barr's announcement, Trump repeated his accusation that the entire investigation was a hoax and questioned Mueller's credentials for investigating him. But Mueller, who was director of the FBI for 12 years, has the respect and support of Democrats and Republicans alike as a straight-shooting, disciplined and fair investigator. The last pocket of Islamic State territory has fallen, Western-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) said on Saturday, marking the end of the group's "caliphate" four-and-a-half years after it was declared. "Total elimination of (the) so-called caliphate", Mustafa Bali, the SDF spokesman, wrote on Twitter. "The military victory against Daesh has been accomplished." The SDF had Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isil) cornered in a patch of land smaller than one-mile-square in the eastern Syrian village of Baghuz, before finally dealing them defeat. A small number of Isil fighters, most of them foreign, refused to surrender and fought to the last. Fighters of the SDF dance as they celebrate near the Omar oil field in the eastern Syrian Deir Ezzor province after announcing the total elimination of Isil Credit: AFP An unfathomable number of people - mostly women and children related to Isil members - have streamed out of Baghuz in the past weeks. The Kurdish-led SDF said its fighters were surprised by the amount of civilians - which in the end totalled more than 60,000 and forced them to slow their advance. For the last week, the SDF and US-led coalition has been pummeling the Baghuz pocket in the hope of bringing the battle to an end. Syrians on social media criticised the coalition for its heavy use of air strikes, after graphic photographs emerged purporting to show the charred bodies of women and children, as well as piles of corpses littering Baghuz. Isil had been given several chances by the SDF to evacuate out of safe passages. Those left at the end had rejected the offers and had effectively been using their families as human shields. There is no accurate estimate of how many were killed in the final stand. The battle took 1,737 days - four times longer than the liberation of western Europe from the Nazis. It took 100,000 bombs, two national armies, a band of militias, the might of the US, British and French air forces and a coalition of nearly 70 countries to defeat the jihadists. During their height they controlled territory spanning two countries that was roughly the size of Britain, imposing a radical and unforgiving interpretation of Islam over nearly 10 million people. Story continues Its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, declared an end to modern countries and called on supporters to join their jihadist utopia. Tens of thousands from all over the world came to live in the self-declared caliphate - the first in modern times. Fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) gesture the "V" for victory sign as they come back from the frontline in the Islamic State group's last remaining position in the village of Baghuz Credit: AFP Isil used their base in Syria and Iraq as launchpad for attacks around the globe, including the Paris attacks in 2015 which killed more than 130 people. At the same time, they began terrorising those they ruled over, carrying out large-scale massacres and public executions. While the battle may be over, questions still remain; such as the whereabouts of Baghdadi and the fate of a number of high-profile hostages including captured British journalist John Cantlie. There are rumours Baghdadi could be hiding out in the Anbar desert in western Iraq. While Isil has now lost all the urban territory they once held, it continues to have a presence in the desert of both Syria and Iraq. Isil declared in an audio message from its spokesman this week that the group would not be weakened by any defeat in Baghuz and urged its followers across Syria to attack the SDF elsewhere in the country. "Avenge the blood of your brothers and sisters.. set up the )explosive) devices and deploy the snipers," said Abu Hassan al-Muhajir. The SDF too has warned the end of the physical caliphate did not mark the end of Isil. Isil sleeper cells have stepped up attacks on SDF forces in recent weeks, attacking areas where once they controlled. Local Syrian Kurdish and Arab forces fear a return of Isil once the US withdraws most of its 2,000 forces in April. US intelligence agencies have warned that the jihadists would likely resurge in Syria within six to 12 months and regain limited territory if sustained pressure is not maintained. Gen. Joseph Votel, who oversees US military operations in the Middle East as commander of Central Command, told Congress earlier this month that extremism in Iraq and Syria is a "generational problem." Iraqi Special Forces soldiers surveyed the aftermath of an Isil suicide car bomb that managed to reach their lines in the Andalus neighbourhood, one of the last areas to be liberated in east Mosul Credit: Ivor Prickett/The New York Times Indeed it is not one that will likely be solved quickly. Tens of thousands of Isil suspects and their families are in prisons and camps in Iraq and Syria. Many have not been formally accused, others have been deemed guilty by association. It was in overcrowded camps like these that Baghdadi and a cadre of like-minded extremists formed a group that would later morph into Isil. The last to leave the final holdout expressed few regrets about how their jihadist project turned out, many continuing to pledge allegiance to a ruined caliphate they had already reconciled to losing. "Don't think we are surrendering," one woman leaving Baghuz told the Telegraph, "we are saving ourselves to rise again." Philippine Franchise Association president Richard Sanz Homegrown Philippine brands continue to level up to global standards with the help of franchising.Philippine Franchise Association president Richard Sanz said about 30 Filipino brands have successfully penetrated markets overseas and that about a hundred more are expected to join the fold in three years. We advocate Filipino franchises to go global. We want to see 100 of our brands in the international scene. These brands come from the mainstreaming of homegrown concepts. We have seen a lot of successful brands not only from Metro Manila but from the Visayas and Mindanao. It only makes sense for them to look for opportunities abroad. And when foreigners see these brands, they see the potential of these products in their home markets, he said. This will be one of the focal points at the Franchise Asia Philippines 2019 on March 27 to 31 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. In its 27th edition, the event continues to be the biggest franchise show in Asia with 13 participating countries showcasing more than 1,000 brands. About 20 percent of the brands during the show are foreign labels that seek entry into the dynamic Philippine market.Among the trends that PFA expects foreign brands to bring are the concepts of manless business models and experiencing death and reincarnation, two global franchising concepts that are starting to take roots in different markets. The expensive cost of maintaining manpower is the major push for the manless concept. Robotics and technological advancement provides a major support for manless establishments such as Amazon Go and manless convenience stores that started in South Korea. Using their cards, consumers need only to tap to enter the stores, grab their purchases and go. The data on their card allows for this kind of shopping set-up wherein the establishments capture the proper data needed to process their purchases and billed through e-wallet. The death and reincarnation franchise concept is a novel concept created to bring down the number of people taking their own lives. The participant has virtual experience while laying on a coffin for 30 minutes. Before that, he receives an inspirational message from a priest or a monk and gets to write his last will and testament. Another concept is the vendo machines. Vendo is not a totally fresh concept but it has always a dependable business model. Vendo, a Japanese selling concept, is now being franchised as well.Locally, franchising trends that are shaping the industry include DIY laundromat, specialty skin and beauty concepts, food parks, food strips, the renaissance of barber shops, the third wave popularity of milk teas, micro-finance, dialysis clinics, the rise of celebrity franchisors, among others. These are mostly homegrown ideas that captured the interest of franchisors.The franchise show continues to be a tool in promoting franchising as a business concept to many business owners and micro, small and medium enterprises. Sans said that franchising has evolved as a significant contributor to generating jobs for Filipinos. From the moment PFA was founded, we have implemented a two-pronged approach of endorsing franchising as a strategy for growth for MSMEs and in encouraging ordinary Filipinos to take the path of entrepreneurship via franchising, he said. Sanz said most pioneer franchisors are already preparing for the next of generation to take on the business. In other words, franchising has not only shown itself as a catalyst in growing businesses but also a creator of legacies, he said. PFA, he said, is bullish about hitting 25-percent growth to $31 billion in 2019 from $25 billion in 2018. One of the drivers for growth is the expanding middle class and their increasing ability to purchase goods and services. Another is the dispersal of jobs and development to areas outside Metro Manila such as Clark, Bacolod, Iloilo and Laguna. The third factor is the continuing growth of homegrown brands. PFA is also looking forward to bringing 100 more brands overseas by 2022. PFA is composed of more than 300 member-companies with at least 700 brands, combined. The group continues to mentor new businesses that want to expand through franchising. (WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) All remaining territory has been wrested from the Islamic State group in Syria, President Donald Trump announced Friday, though officials said sporadic fighting continued on the ground between coalition forces and the groups holdouts. The complete fall of the last IS stronghold in Baghouz, Syria, would mark the end of the Islamic State groups self-declared caliphate, which at its height stretched across large parts of Syria and Iraq. Controlling territory gave the group room to launch attacks around the world. Trump said Friday its about time that the group no longer controlled territory in the region, after a campaign by U.S. and coalition forces that spanned five years and two U.S. presidencies unleashed more than 100,000 bombs and killed untold numbers of civilians. The IS territorial caliphate has been eliminated in Syria, White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters aboard Air Force One. U.S. officials familiar with the situation in Syria said Friday that the Syrian Democratic Forces were still battling the last remaining IS fighters who were holed up in tunnels along the river cliffs in Baghouz and had refused to surrender. The SDF has not announced any declaration of victory, and there was no announcement planned for Friday, officials said. Associated Press journalists in Baghouz, in eastern Syria, said coalition fighters were still conducting mop-up operations in the village after seizing an encampment Tuesday where the extremists had been holed up for months. SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel told AP earlier Friday that there were still IS fighters and women and children hiding in caves near Baghouz. He said final operations were ongoing and there appeared to be several hundred people still inside. Other SDF officials said the camp was full of corpses, and that some civilians and IS fighters were still handing themselves over. At least two airstrikes were carried out on Baghouz earlier Friday, sending black smoke rising in the village. Story continues According to the officials, the SDF is moving slowly and carefully, and is willing to wait out the IS fighters who are out of food and low on water. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss mission details. Sanders told reporters that Trump was briefed about the development by acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan who was traveling with him to Florida. We got the information from the DOD, she added. Trump showed reporters a map of Iraq and Syria that indicated the terror group no longer controlled any territory in the region. Heres ISIS on Election Day, he said, linking coalition gains since then to his presidency. He pointed to a swath of red signifying the groups previous territorial hold, and then to one without any red, Heres ISIS right now. But Trump appeared to be overstating his administrations contribution to the anti-IS fight. A close-up of the map showed that Trump was displaying a depiction of the groups footprint at a high-point in 2014, not Election Day 2016, by which point the U.S.-backed campaign was well underway. Trump has been teasing the victory for days, most recently Wednesday when he said the milestone would be achieved by that night. But even after Baghouzs fall, IS maintains a scattered presence and sleeper cells that threaten to continue an insurgency. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, speaking in Jerusalem, said Thursday the U.S.-led coalition had achieved amazing results in Syria. But he said, The threat from radical Islamic terrorism remains. Trump tweeted a warning Friday to those who may be recruited by IS online, saying, They will always try to show a glimmer of vicious hope, but they are losers and barely breathing. He added: Think about that before you destroy your lives and the lives of your family! ISIS uses the internet better than almost anyone, but for all of those susceptible to ISIS propaganda, they are now being beaten badly at every level.... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 ....There is nothing to admire about them, they will always try to show a glimmer of vicious hope, but they are losers and barely breathing. Think about that before you destroy your lives and the lives of your family! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 If history is a guide, the reconquering of IS-held territory may prove a short-lived victory unless Iraq and Syria fix a problem that gave rise to the extremist movement in the first place: governments that pit one ethnic or sectarian group against another. The militants have been putting up a desperate fight, their propaganda machine working even on the brink of collapse. The battle for Baghouz has dragged on for weeks and the encampment had proven a major battleground, with tents covering foxholes and underground tunnels. The siege has also been slowed by the unexpectedly large number of civilians in Baghouz, most of them families of IS members. Over past weeks they have been flowing out, exhausted, hungry and often wounded. The sheer number who emerged nearly 30,000 since early January, according to Kurdish officials took the Syrian Democratic Forces by surprise. The world's gargantuan oil and gas companies are often referred to as supermajors. Investors can likely name a few of the half dozen or so businesses sporting the official label, such as Royal Dutch Shell and BP (NYSE: BP), which have generally performed well in recent years. All but ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM) have delivered a total return (stock performance plus dividends) that at least matches that of the S&P 500 in the last three years. Then again, sticking to the "official" list of supermajors -- comprising Western companies -- would have missed the best performance of all. Brazil's Petrobras (NYSE: PBR) has delivered a 227% total return in that span and has climbed back over a $100 billion market cap for the first time since 2014. While Wall Street has rewarded the business for swift progress on its turnaround plan that focuses on cleaning up the balance sheet and boosting operations, Petrobras still boasts a net debt level that's a whopping 60% higher than its closest supermajor peer. Can long-term investors overlook that risk? A golden oil well toy pumping oil onto a pile of $100 bills. BImage source: Getty Images. A promising future, but what about the debt? Petrobras appears to have put the now-infamous Brazilian political bribery scandal, called Operation Car Wash, behind it. The money laundering scheme plunged the business into chaos in late 2014 as investors worried about the potential for excessive fines and the actual writedown of billions of dollars in overvalued assets. The uncertainty was exacerbated the company's habit of binging on debt, partially stemming from its economic duty as a government-owned business, which forced it to rely on inefficient labor, goods, and services from local sources. The last few years haven't been easy, but Petrobras is on a much better trajectory today. It has overhauled its board with independent directors, agreed to pay a nearly $3 billion settlement, and embarked on an ambitious plan to deleverage its balance sheet. The strategy has seen the business divest tens of billions of dollars in noncore assets and agree to partnerships with multinationals worth over $21 billion. Story continues After hustling for years, Petrobras has reduced its net debt balance from a record $106 billion at the end of 2014 to an eight-year low of $69 billion at the end of 2018. While that's a significant reduction, the Brazilian supermajor easily paces its global peers (as discussed below). Nonetheless, Wall Street seems willing to overlook that fact as long as the business continues setting record levels of free cash flow, which has improved each year since 2013 (thanks in large part to asset sales). A wrecking ball with the word DEBT on it. Image source: Getty Images. Operations are poised to continue improving thanks to increasing output from its coveted offshore acreage known as the pre-salt formation. The pre-salt formations off the coast of Brazil are estimated to boast the third-lowest break-even costs in the world after the average OPEC producer and top-tier American shale production, respectively. That's helped Petrobras to sell off multibillion-dollar equity stakes in its pre-salt fields to ExxonMobil, BP, and CNPC, to name a few. The strategy monetizes exploration, de-risks development, and keeps operating expenses in check. Petrobras grew pre-salt production volume to 1.75 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) in 2018, marking a 9% increase year over year. That swamps the output of just 0.6 boe/d from 2014, which shows the youth and growth potential of Brazil's offshore resources. There's also potential for the company to leverage its experience in the formation as a selling point to court partners especially as it continues to reduce drilling time and costs for each new well created. A laptop in the foreground and an oil refinery in the background. Image source: Getty Images. By the numbers Brazil's pre-salt formation could be the ticket to a brighter future for Petrobras and its shareholders, but "brighter" might be relative. It's going to take years for the business to reduce net debt levels in line with where peers are today. And doing so will require management to divert substantial cash flow to debt and interest payments that might otherwise be returned to shareholders through a dividend. Brazil's crown jewel is the only supermajor that doesn't sport a market-beating dividend yield -- and it's not even close. It's also worth pointing out that each supermajor has an ambitious growth strategy of its own, which will create a moving target for Petrobras as it plays catch-up. After finally putting the Gulf of Mexico oil spill behind it, BP plans to expand once again in the region while making growth investments in Turkey and West Africa. ExxonMobil is poised to dominate America's Permian Basin for years to come -- and that's just one of several major projects receiving capital. The pre-salt formation could lead to growth for Petrobras, but it could also prove limiting in the long run compared to the global portfolios of peers. Here's how Petrobras stacks up against the traditional supermajors. Company Market Cap Net Debt Balance, End of 2018 Free Cash Flow, 2018 Dividend Yield Petrobras $108 billion $69.2 billion $14.3 billion 0.6% BP $148 billion $43.1 billion $6.2 billion 5.6% Royal Dutch Shell $258 billion $36.0 billion $30.1 billion 6% ExxonMobil $339 billion $33.4 billion $16.4 billion 4.1% Chevron $238 billion $24.1 billion $16.8 billion 3.8% Data source: Ycharts, Yahoo! Finance. As the table above suggests, there are more intriguing investments among the world's supermajors than the one calling Brazil home. This oil stock may have maxed out its gains for now While it's possible that the pre-salt formation could help Petrobras reach sustainably profitable operations over time, the business has a long way to go before reaching the financial flexibility of its peers. The Brazilian energy giant still boasts an unhealthy level of debt, likely won't be able to pay a significant dividend for the foreseeable future, and may be forced to divert most of its excess cash flow (driven in large part by asset divestments) to debt repayments. Can the business really earn a market cap much higher than its current $108 billion figure in the near future? Perhaps, but the numbers aren't in its favor. Investors would be better off looking elsewhere for energy exposure. More From The Motley Fool Maxx Chatsko has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Gibraltar Industries (ROCK). Shares have lost about 6.4% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500. Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Gibraltar Industries due for a breakout? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at the most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important drivers. Gibraltar's Q4 Earnings Beat, Revenues Miss Estimates Gibraltar Industries, Inc. reported mixed fourth-quarter 2018 results, wherein earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate while revenues missed the same. Nonetheless, the company provided encouraging guidance for 2019 on the back of solid performance in 2018 across the business. The bottom line of 47 cents surpassed the consensus estimate of 40 cents by 17.5%. Also, the reported figure increased 14.6% year over year on the back of robust performance from the Industrial and Infrastructure segment, effective price-material cost management and enduring benefits from 80/20 simplification initiatives. Its top line of $240.9 million missed the consensus mark of $245.6 million in the reported quarter. Also, the reported figure declined 6.7% year over year, due to lesser construction seasons during the quarter compared with the prior-year period. Segmental Details Net sales of the Residential Products segment were $102.2 million in the reported quarter, declining 2.9% on a year-over-year basis. Segment sales decreased mainly due to an unfavorable year-over-year comparison, as higher storm-related activity and subsequently milder weather in the prior year extended the roofing activity season into fourth-quarter 2017. Adjusted operating margins also contracted 90 bps during the quarter. Unfavorable product mix and lower volume added to the woes. Industrial and Infrastructure Products segments net sales increased 2.9% year over year to $50.5 million. The upside was mainly driven by increased activity in the Infrastructure business. Adjusted operating margins expanded 240 bps in the reported quarter, backed by its solid execution of 80/20 simplification initiatives, effective management of material costs to customer selling prices and improved mix of higher-margin innovative products. Quarterly sales at the Renewable Energy and Conservation segment fell 15% year over year to $88.1 million in the quarter. The decline resulted from an extended construction season in the prior year (due to favorable weather conditions) compared with the current quarter. Operating margins decreased 40 bps to 11.6% due to unfavorable volume and product mix. Costs and Margins Cost of sales in the quarter was $187.7 million, declining 6.8% year over year. Gross profit margin came in at 22.1%, up 10 bps year over year. Selling, general and administrative expenses totaled $33.3 million compared with $34.1 million a year ago. Adjusted operating margin came in at 8.7%, contacting 50 bps year over year. Balance Sheet and Cash Flow As of Dec 31, 2018, Gibraltar had cash and cash equivalents worth $297 million compared with $222.3 million recorded in the comparable period of 2017. Long-term debt was $1.6 million, significantly lower than $209.6 million recorded at the end of 2017. In 2018, the company provided $97.5 million cash from operating activities compared with $70.1 million a year ago. Full-Year 2018 Review In full-year 2018, the company reported adjusted earnings of $2.14 per share, up 25.1% on a year-over-year basis. Revenues of $1 billion also grew 1.6% from a year ago. Adjusted operating margins were in line with the prior-year figure of 10.1%. 2019 Guidance Although Gibraltar remains confident about the end markets across the business, it is cautious of the continued volatility in economy and material costs. The company intends to gain efficiency on the back of innovative product development, strategic acquisitions and implementation of 80/20 simplification projects. For 2019, Gibraltar expects consolidated revenues to be more than $1 billion. Gibraltar projects adjusted earnings in the range of $2.40-$2.55 per share. Adjusted operating income is expected in the range of $110-$117 million. Adjusted operating margin is expected in the range of 10.6-11.1%. For first-quarter 2019, the company anticipates to generate revenues in the range of $218-$224 million. Also, adjusted earnings are projected within 27-32 cents per share. Story continues How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then? Fresh estimates followed a downward path over the past two months. The consensus estimate has shifted -14.87% due to these changes. VGM Scores At this time, Gibraltar Industries has an average Growth Score of C, however its Momentum Score is doing a lot better with an A. Charting a somewhat similar path, the stock was allocated a grade of B on the value side, putting it in the top 40% for this investment strategy. Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of B. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in. Outlook Gibraltar Industries has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line 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 Gibraltar Industries, Inc. (ROCK) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research Special counsel Robert Mueller has officially concluded his investigation after more than two years and turned his final report in to the Justice Department. What happens next depends on one man: the attorney general, William Barr. Justice Department rules now make Barr the sole keeper of the Mueller report. He alone decides what to do with it, including how much to make public and whether to pursue prosecution or other punitive measures based on Robert Muellers findings. Certain aspects of the report will have to be redacted, such as grand-jury materials, classified details and information related to ongoing investigations. But beyond that, Barr will have almost total discretion over what to share with the White House, Congress and the American people. I remain committed to as much transparency as possible, and I will keep you informed as to the status of my view, Barr wrote in a letter to members of Congress on Friday. How Barr will wield his extraordinary power is a mystery even at the highest levels of government. The White House is preparing different responses to the Mueller report, depending on what it contains and what they are allowed to see, a White House official tells TIME. As the head of the executive branch, President Donald Trump is Barrs boss, so he, in the West Wings view, could request access to the full, un-redacted report. Others defending Trump, like the White House counsels office and Trumps team of personal lawyers, would be entitled to a version of the report scrubbed of classified or sensitive information, argues the official. The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course, White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement Friday. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. Trump aides are also gearing up for a fight if Barr tries to send anything damning about the President to Congress or the public. The White House believes that if a part of the report mentions people who have not been charged with crimes, it would violate Justice Department policy for those sections to be released, according to the official. So far, Trump has tried to project a sanguine front as he girds for Muellers report. Let it come out, the President said March 20. Let people see it. Most Americans agree: almost 90% of voters think the report should be made public, according to a CNN poll conducted from March 14-17. Story continues Congress is preparing for battle as well. Under the special counsel regulations, Barr is only required to notify Congress of a few very narrow scenarios about the end of the investigation, including if he overrules Mueller on a decision. Beyond that, its up to him what to show lawmakers. Its a very different situation than the one the nation faced in the 1990s, when independent counsel regulations mandated that Ken Starr send his report directly to Congress as well as to the attorney general. In congressional offices of both parties, a four-page memo from Congress nonpartisan internal think tank, the Congressional Research Service, has been making the rounds, explaining just how little disclosure Congress is entitled to. All of this hinges on the Attorney General, said one senior Senate Republican aide. The first potential flashpoint between the legislative and executive branches of government is the fact that the White House may get access to whatever Barr decides to send to Congress before Congress itself, so that it can decide whether to assert executive privilege. Democrats are worried about how far Barr may defer to the White House on that score. There has to be some reasonable opportunity to review and assert executive privilege, but it should be denied as much as possible, says Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, a Democrat on the Judiciary Committee. Thats where I think the ideological views of the Attorney General may have the greatest potential to threaten the transparency of the report. If any parts of the report or summary Congress receives are redacted, House committee chairs have already demanded they be given explanations for the reasoning. House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler, a New York Democrat, has suggested he and his colleagues could subpoena the full report or call Mueller to testify before Congress. The House voted unanimously this month for a resolution calling for any final report to be made public. Were going do everything in our legal legislative powers to compel them to release the documents, says a House Democratic leadership aide. Congress is conducting its own investigations into Trump and his orbit. But many Democrats have been waiting on Muellers findings to decide whether to initiate impeachment proceedings. Republicans, who control the Senate, are likewise anxious to see what Mueller has turned up. With impeachment potentially hanging in the balance, it becomes impossible to divorce ideology from politics. Whatever Barr decides to share with or withhold from Congress, for whatever reason, will have enormous consequences. Attorney General William P. Barr speaks with reporters at a news conference in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 19, 1991. Assistant Attorney General Robert Mueller stands on his right. It is a mark of just how explosive the Mueller findings will be for both parties that they have been held so closely for so long. Barr and Mueller are old friends Barr was Muellers boss from 1991 to 1993, during which time Barr served as George H.W. Bushs Attorney General while Mueller was head of DOJs criminal division. But aides say Barr and Mueller havent been socializing in their current roles. Barr also left in place the existing oversight structure for Muellers investigation, with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein responsible for managing any interactions required between Muellers office and Main Justice on Pennsylvania Avenue. The overall effect has been to try to inoculate Mueller from some of the political heat surrounding his probe. Whats clear is that Barr is about to make history. He alone will decide, based on his experience, beliefs and personality, how this consequential chapter of the Trump presidency unfolds. Even his closest aides recognize the power of the moment. Theres a lot of things coming down the pike at us, theres a lot of decisions that are going to need to be made, admits one, And it will be kind of viewed through the lens of how [Barr] handles things. (Adds U.S. congressman calling for witnesses on MAX 737 certification program; adds WASHINGTON to dateline, byline) * U.S. lawmaker urges Boeing, FAA employees to come forward * Garuda cancels 737 MAX order with list price of $6 billion * American Airlines pilots to test software fix in simulator * Flight control system MCAS at center of investigations By David Shepardson and Cindy Silviana WASHINGTON/JAKARTA, March 22 (Reuters) - A U.S. lawmaker on Friday urged current or former Boeing Co and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees to come forward with any information about the certification program for the 737 MAX, which has suffered two fatal crashes in five months. Boeing and the FAA are under global regulatory scrutiny over software and training on the signature aircraft. Boeing risked losing a $6 billion order for the jet on Friday, its first since the world's entire fleet was grounded last week. Indonesian airline Garuda said it plans to scrap its order because some passengers are afraid to board the plane, although industry analysts said the deal was already in doubt. In the United States, the chairman of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Peter DeFazio urged people to use the committee's whistleblower web page. "It is imperative we continue to ensure we have the highest level of safety for the traveling public," DeFazio said. American Airlines pilots were preparing to test Boeing's planned software upgrade for an anti-stall system on MAX simulators this weekend, saying they want their own safety guarantees on the software fix. The 737 MAX was Boeing's fastest selling jet before an Ethiopian Airlines crash near Addis Ababa on March 10, which followed a Lion Air crash in Indonesia on Oct. 29. Ethiopian and French investigators have pointed to "clear similarities" between the two crashes, which killed 346 people, putting pressure on Boeing and U.S. regulators to come up with an adequate fix. No direct link has been proven between the crashes but attention has focused on whether pilots had the correct information about the "angle of attack" at which the wing slices through the air. Story continues Ethiopia has shared limited information with foreign investigators, Reuters reported on Thursday, and an industry source said Boeing had not yet received any black box and voice recorder data. Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat, on Friday raised concerns in a letter to the FAA about regulations that allow aircraft manufacturers to effectively self-certify the safety of their planes and "left the fox guarding the henhouse." The FAA declined to comment. The U.S. Justice Department opened a separate investigation this week. The FBI has declined comment. Garuda CEO Ari Askhara told Reuters on Friday: "Many passengers told us they were afraid to get on a MAX 8." However, the airline had been reconsidering its order for 49 of the narrowbody jets before the Ethiopian crash, including potentially swapping some for widebody Boeing models. Southeast Asia faces a glut of narrowbody aircraft like the 737 MAX and rival Airbus A320neo at a time of slowing global economic growth and high fuel costs. "They have been re-looking at their fleet plan anyway so this is an opportunity to make some changes that otherwise may be difficult to do," CAPA Centre for Aviation Chief Analyst Brendan Sobie said. Indonesia's Lion Air has also said it might cancel 737 MAX aircraft, though industry sources say it is also struggling to absorb the number of planes on order. RETROFITS Boeing now plans to make compulsory a light to alert pilots when sensor readings of the angle of attack do not match - meaning at least one must be wrong -, according to two officials briefed on the matter. Investigators suspect a faulty angle-of-attack reading led the doomed Lion Air jet's computer to believe it had stalled, prompting its anti-stall system, called MCAS, repeatedly to push the plane's nose down. Norwegian Air played down the significance of the compulsory light, saying that, according to Boeing, it would not have been able to prevent erroneous signals that Lion Air pilots received before their new 737 MAX plane crashed in October. Boeing must be cautious with how it characterizes the safety alert, risking legal claims by saying it could have made a difference in the crash while not wanting to suggest that the retrofit is meaningless, legal experts said. The Lion Air plane did not have the warning light installed, and Ethiopian Airlines did not immediately comment on whether its crashed plane had the alert. But the Ethiopian carrier, whose reputation along with Boeing's is at stake, issued a statement on Friday emphasizing the modernity of its safety and training systems, with more than $500 million invested in infrastructure in the past five years. The Ethiopian crash has set off one of the widest inquiries in aviation history and cast a shadow over the Boeing 737 MAX model intended to be a standard for decades. Boeing did not comment on the plan to make the safety feature standard, but separately said it was moving quickly to make software changes and expected the upgrade to be approved by the FAA in coming weeks. Experts said the change needs regulatory approval and could take weeks or months. Regulators in Europe and Canada have said they will conduct their own reviews of any new systems. Boeing shares have fallen 14 percent since the Ethiopian crash. (Reporting by David Shepardson in WASHINGTON, Cindy Silviana in JAKARTA and Tracy Rucinski in CHICAGO; Additional reporting by Terje Solsvik in Oslo, Jamie Freed in Singapore, Bernadette Christina Munthe in Jakarta, Maggie Fick and Jason Neely in Addis Ababa, Tim Hepher in Paris, and Eric M. Johnson in Seattle; Writing by Sayantani Ghosh, Georgina Prodhan and Tracy Rucinski; Editing by Mark Potter and Grant McCool) Less than a week after a gunman allegedly murdered 50 worshippers inside two New Zealand mosques, the nations prime minister announced a sweeping, nation-wide ban on assault weapons. The measure was met with swift praise in the U.S. among gun reform advocates, who have long been pleading for similar restrictions. On Thursday, they renewed their calls for change and urged U.S. leaders to follow in New Zealands footsteps. But would a ban like New Zealands even hold up in American courts? Its difficult to say since the U.S. Supreme Court, the nations highest court, has not directly addressed whether semiautomatic weapons are protected under the Second Amendment. But constitutional scholars, pointing to a few legal precedents, say its certainly feasible. Its difficult to discern the chances, says Stanford University law professor David Studdert. But it could hold up in court. That is definitely a possibility. Before last weeks mosque attacks, New Zealand had not experienced a mass shooting in nearly three decades. The speed with which the country enacted change highlights the stark differences with how the U.S. has reacted to its own massacres. For instance, after 58 people were slaughtered at a Las Vegas music festival on Oct. 1, 2017the worst mass shooting in modern U.S. historyit took the federal government more than a year to ban bump stocksaccessories the killer used in the attack to dramatically increase his weapons rate of fire. And after 17 people were killed at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla. in February 2018, the state raised the minimum age to purchase a firearm, among other measures, yet there were no changes to gun laws on a federal level, despite nationwide marches. Heres what experts say could happen if a New Zealand-style assault weapons ban was passed into law in America: What, exactly, does New Zealands assault weapons ban do? At a news conference Thursday, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said a new federal law would prohibit the sale and possession of military-style semiautomatic weapons, with exceptions made to police and some farmers. It would also ban high-capacity magazines and accessories that can covert firearms into military-style semiautomatic weapons. Story continues In short, Ardern said, every semiautomatic weapon used in the terror attack on Friday will be banned in this country. As part of the new law, which is expected to be in place in a matter of weeks, the prime minister said gun owners would have a reasonable amount of time to give up and sell their weapons to the government. The buyback program is estimated to cost New Zealand up to 200 million New Zealand dollars, or $140 million. However, the prime minister said its unclear how many of the guns are currently in circulation. That is the price that we must pay to ensure the safety of our communities, she said. New Zealanders who illegally possess weapons currently face a fine of 4,000 New Zealand dollars ($2,750) and three years in prison. Those penalties could increase under the new law, the prime minister said. The announcement comes after a white supremacist opened fire inside two mosques in Christchurch on March 15. Ardern said the suspect, who live-streamed the massacre, used at least two assault rifles in the attacks. Purchased legally with a standard firearms license but modified illegally to enhance their capacity, the weapons, Ardern said, had the power to shoot continuously. Would that kind of ban even be legal in America? Its unclear for now, but experts say the existence of the Second Amendment on its own is likely not enough to protect semiautomatic weapons. The argument boils down to the Supreme Courts landmark Heller decision. In 2008, the court upheld that the Second Amendment protects a private citizens individual right to possess a firearm that is in common use, and to use that firearm for traditionally lawful purposes, like self-defense at home. The ruling says handguns at home are constitutional, but not machine guns. It does not offer guidance on semiautomatic weapons like AR-15-style assault rifles that were used in Christchurch and many U.S. mass shootings. Thats where the issue gets blurry. The Supreme Court has not said that the Second Amendment protects anything that New Zealand has banned, says Roger Williams University law professor Carl Bogus. But nobody knows, when faced with particular questions, how that court would answer. On one hand, experts argue that firearms like the AR-15 are commonly used for lawful purposes, like recreation, and therefore protected under the Second Amendment. The kinds of rifles that are going to be banned in New Zealand are commonly possessed in the U.S. by millions of law-abiding people, says Stephen Halbrook, an attorney who has represented the National Rifle Association on other issues in federal court. Theyre very widely possessed for sport and target shooting and self-defense. If you applied that test, this type of law would not be permissible here. On the other hand, there are some precedents that show how a national ban could be found legal, according to constitutional scholars. For one, fully automatic weapons, including machine gunswhich fire in rapid multiple rounds with a single trigger pullare illegal under the National Firearms Act. Experts say that law, originally enacted in 1934, shows that it would be legal to limit civilian possession of some guns. More significantly, under a law passed by Congress that went into effect in 1994, assault weapons were temporarily banned in the U.S. While constitutional scholars say the law, which had a 10-year expiration date, was riddled with loopholes, it still shows the such a ban was not struck down by the courts. On a local level, although the laws have been challenged in court, seven states and Washington, D.C. have put their own restrictions on assault weapons or large-capacity magazines, according to gun safety groups Brady and the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. And at least three U.S. Circuit Courts have also said bans on assault weapons are lawful. The reality is [assault weapons bans] do exist right now, Studdert, the Stanford professor, says. Its not completely theoretical. Because the Supreme Court decided not to hear those lower court appeals, it has been considered a win for gun-control advocates. It suggested some hesitancy on the part of the court to overturn these laws, according to UCLA School of Law professor Adam Winkler, who wrote Gunfight: The Battle Over the Right to Bear Arms in America. But that might all change. Earlier this year, the Supreme Court decided to take on its first big gun rights case in nearly a decade. The nine justices, five of whom are considered to be conservatives, agreed to weigh in on whether its constitutional for New York City to restrict gun owners from transporting their licensed, locked and unloaded handguns to second homes or shooting ranges outside of the city. Its the only law of its kind in the country, according to Halbrook and Winkler. The Supreme Courts ruling in the case could expand Second Amendment rights. At a minimum, experts say its a sign that the ambiguity surrounding gun laws could become clearer. The court for years has refused to take a bunch of gun cases, Winkler says. Now the justices may be more willing to grapple with these questions. By Sarah Dadouch and Bulent Usta ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan replayed graphic footage of New Zealand's worst mass shooting at an election rally on Friday - just hours after that country's foreign minister met him and said he believed the controversial showings had stopped. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters arrived in Istanbul on Friday to talk to Erdogan about the footage and comments he has made on the shooting of 50 people at mosques in Christchurch a week ago, which have drawn condemnation from New Zealand and Australia. But Peters emerged from a brief meeting with Erdogan and struck a conciliatory tone, saying that he had not raised at the meeting some of the most controversial comments the Turkish leader has made at rallies. He also said that he had not asked Erdogan to stop showing the videos. "I did not ask that question because I felt that I did not have to ask it, because they are not doing that anymore," Peters told reporters after attending a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Two hours later, however, Erdogan paused his speech at an election rally in the central province of Konya so that the audience could watch the video footage of the shootings that the alleged gunman had broadcast on Facebook on March 15. The video, which governments and social media sites have attempted to take down since the incident, was blurred but the gun shots were heard. Erdogan is seeking to drum up support for his Islamist-rooted AK Party in March 31 local elections. He has shown different versions of the video about a dozen times throughout the week, including on Thursday. "The New Zealand deputy Prime Minister came with a delegation and we had a chance to talk before coming here. We discussed and agreed upon what we should do," Erdogan told supporters in Konya without elaborating. 'COFFINS' COMMENT GOES UNADDRESSED The massacre in New Zealand was carried out by a lone gunman at two mosques. Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, has been charged with one murder following the attack and is likely to face more charges. In rallies across Turkey, Erdogan has since called on New Zealand to restore the death penalty and said Turkey would make the suspected attacker pay if that country did not. Referring to a "manifesto" posted online by the attacker, he said Turkey will return "in coffins" anyone who tried to take the battle to Istanbul. Peters told reporters he had not addressed these comments with Erdogan because he did not think it would serve a "long-term peaceful purpose," adding that he had received assurances regarding the safety of New Zealanders visiting Turkey. In an address to leaders of Muslim countries attending the OIC meeting, including Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and Saudi Arabia's ambassador to Turkey, Peters defended New Zealand's response to the shooting and said the perpetrator would spend his life in prison. "This person will face the full force of New Zealand law, and will spend the rest of his life in isolation in a New Zealand prison," Peters said, adding later that "misinterpretations" in the days following the shooting had been cleared up following his meeting with Erdogan and the OIC. Before leaving Istanbul to attend the election rally, Erdogan told the OIC that the empathy and reaction displayed by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern since the incident "should be an example to world leaders." Earlier on Friday, Ardern said Peters had gone to Turkey to "set the record straight" amid the diplomatic row. Earlier in the week, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison called Erdogan's comments "deeply offensive," though on Thursday he said progress had been made and "we've already seen the moderation of the president's views." No other heads of state or government attended the gathering of the OIC, which groups together Muslim countries to protect the interests of the Muslim world. It met on Friday to discuss Islamophobia and the New Zealand shooting. Relations have generally been good between Turkey, New Zealand and Australia, with thousands traveling to Turkey each year to commemorate soldiers in the ANZAC army corps who died at Gallipoli just over a century ago. "We are returning home to New Zealand with a grateful assurance that our people who come here to commemorate ANZAC will be as welcome as they always were," Peters said. (Additional reporting by Daren Butler, Ezgi Erkoyun, Ali Kucukgocmen and Tulay Karadeniz in Ankara, Editing by Jonathan Spicer, William Maclean) Home | News | General | Osun election tribunal: Jubilation in Osun as PDP supporters, sympathisers celebrate Adelekes victory - Supporters of PDP and Sen. Ademola Adeleke in Osun state have trooped out out en-masse to celebrate the party's victory at the tribunal - PDP party faithful were also seen in their large numbers moving to their party leaders residences to celebrate the partys victory - However, people of Fakunle, Olaiya, Egbeda, Baruwa and Ogo Oluwa areas of Osogbo carried on their business activities as if oblivious of the tribunals judgment Supporters and sympathisers of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun were in celebration mood across the state on Friday, March 22, following tribunal judgement declaring Sen. Ademola Adeleke winner of September 2018 governorship election. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that many residents of Ile-Ife were in joyous mood as party faithful and residents trooped out en-masse to celebrate the victory. READ ALSO: Why Adeleke was declared winner of governorship election NAN correspondent in Ile Ife reports that PDP supporters were seen jubilating from Ilode to Enuwa, Iremo, Lagere, Mayfair, Iloro, Oka road in celebration of the judgement. PDP party faithful were also seen in their large numbers moving to their party leaders residences to celebrate the partys victory at the tribunal. Wale Ojo, PDP Ife/Ijesa senatorial leader, commended the judiciary for delivering a truthful judgment, devoid of bias. Rotimi Adeyenuwo, Ife central PDP leader, who could not hide his feelings, congratulated Sen. Ademola Adeleke and other party members for the victory. Also in some parts of Osogbo, the state capital, some residents were seen jubilating over the declaration of Adeleke as the winner of the Osun governorship election. NAN reports that there were shouts and songs of joy along Oke-fia, Lameko Junction and Dada Estate areas of the state capital. Commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, were seen jubilating with various displays of their bikes and shouts of Imole Imole (the campaign slogan of Sen. Ademola Adeleke). At Dada Estate area, also in Osogbo, residents trooped out with excitement on hearing the announcement of the tribunals judgment. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app However, NAN reports that people of Fakunle, Olaiya, Egbeda, Baruwa and Ogo Oluwa areas of Osogbo carried on their business activities as if oblivious of the tribunals judgment. Some shop owners and artisans were, however, seen in small gatherings discussing the tribunal judgment. A tailor in the Egbeda area of Osogbo, who spoke under anonymity, said he and other tailors were happy about the judgement but could not express their joy or celebrate the victory because their landlord was an APC chieftain. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had earlier reported that there was wild jubilation in Ede, Osun, the home town of Sen. Ademola Adeleke on Friday, March 22, following the tribunal judgement which upheld his election. The tribunal which sat in Abuja had declared Adeleke winner of the Sept. 2018 governorship election in Osun. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! Protect your vote to make it count - PDP Guber Candidate | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Appoint substantive minister of petroleum - PENGASSAN to President Buhari - PENGASSAN urged President Muhammadu Buhari to appoint a minister of petroleum - President Buhari combined his position with that of the minister of petroleum - PENGASSAN president said combining the to work was not in the interest of the nation The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to appoint a substantive minister for the petroleum sector in his second term. Francis Johnson, PENGASSAN President made the appeal while fielding questions from journalists on Friday in Lagos on the associations National Executive Council (NEC) held on Thursday. READ ALSO: Osun election tribunal: Why Adeleke was declared winner of governorship election According to Johnson, separating both offices will allow for a more efficient and effective management of the oil and gas sector. It will be recall that in the last four years, President Buhari had combined his position with that of petroleum minister, while Ibe Kachukwu, was appointed minister of state for petroleum. Stakeholders had argued that the combination of the office of the President and minister of petroleum, was not in the interest of the economy, as he was bogged down with enormous responsibilities to pay enough attention to a sector that was the main stay of the nations economy. He commended the incumbent administrations efforts to the fight corruption and urged it to sustain the tempo. NEC-in-Session believes that the fight against corruption should not be allowed to shrink but rather sustained to cover all sectors and maintain the gains of the present dispensation. NEC-in-Session demands that government should make all efforts to see that all recovered looted funds are accounted for and re-invested in the economy to reduce unemployment, Johnson said. On human capital development and labour issues, he urged the government to channel the human capital potential of citizens toward optimising productivity and economic growth of a nation that all craved for. He said that the union had vowed to confront all industrial issues with utmost seriousness, as the general elections were over and warned all recalcitrant companies violating the Nigerian laws to brace up for a rude awakening. On security, the union leader called for more funding in support of the recently released 1 billion dollars earmarked for fighting insurgency and the acquisition/provision of equipment for various security agencies. Meanwhile, Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed, the finance minister of Nigeria, was on Thursday, March 21, appointed by the Africa Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as the chairperson of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of its peace fund. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app This Day reports that the board is made of five members drawn from each region of the continent. The board also has non-African members (United Nations and European Union) as international partners. According to the report, the finance minister represents the Western African sub-region on the board. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better. Nigerians set 2nd term agenda for President Buhari | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General A congresswoman has launched a program to make the adoption of orphan and abandoned children smoother. Taguig Rep. Pia Cayetano on Friday launched Taguig Citys Foster Care Orientation and Recruitment program which aims to encourage foster parenting among families in the city. The institutionalization of foster care in the country as a preferred way of caring for abused, abandoned, or neglected children is mandated by Republic Act 10165 or the Foster Care Act of 2012. The principal author and sponsor of RA 10165, Cayetano said she drew inspiration from her own experience as a foster parent and eventually as adoptive mom to her son, Rene Lucas Cayetano, 8. I wish all children will be.raised by good families, Cayetano said. Cayetano lauded the Taguig city government, under the leadership of Mayor Lani Cayetano, for aspiring to be a model city in promoting foster care through its orientation and recruitment program for foster parents. I worked on the Foster Care Act for quite some time until it became a law. We really need to see it working in our local government units, she said.RA 10165 states that in most cases, foster care is more beneficial than institutional care, in that it provides children with the proper attention and love that can only be provided in a family setting. For her part, the congresswoman underscored the need to encourage more Filipinos to consider being foster families and going through the screening and licensing process of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. According to the United Nations International Childrens Emergency Fund, about 1.8 million Filipino children are abandoned or neglected due to several reasons, including extreme poverty, natural disasters, and armed conflicts. On the other hand, the DSWD 2017 annual report showed that only 5,819 children were placed in residential care facilities run by the agency. The rest were either placed under institutional care or ended up on the streets. Apart from the launch of the orientation and recruitment program, the congresswoman, together with Mayor Cayetano, also witnessed the christening of three babies under the care of the Taguig Lingap Center, the citys temporary shelter for children at risk and the elderly. Cayetano is currently working with the center to link them with the Taguig-Pateros District Hospital milk bank. Home | News | General | Just in: White House claims ISIS has been '100% eliminated' in Syria - White House claims ISIS no longer controls any territory in Syria - The US government claimed that the terror group has been '100% eliminated' - Syrian Democratic Forces, backed by the US military, have been battling ISIS militants hiding in Baghouz - The terrorists were reportedly hiding in trenches as war planes carried out two raids against them on Thursday night, March 21 The White House has claimed that all ISIS-held territory in Syria has been '100%' eliminated, Daily Mail reports. The newspaper reports that the White House press secretary, Sarah Sanders, said that the United States president, Donald Trump, was briefed about the development by acting defence secretary Patrick Shanahan. Sanders reportedly showed reporters a map of Iraq and Syria that showed that ISIS no longer controlled any territory in the region. Legit.ng gathered that that the ISIS fanatics were hiding in caves in their final holdout in Syria when the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), supported by coalition airstrikes, engaged them in Baghouz overnight. Fighters from the SDF in the village of Baghouz as they push to rid the ISIS terrorists from all their territories. Credit: Reuters Source: UGC The terrorists were reportedly hiding in trenches as war planes carried out two raids against them on Thursday night, March 21. "Our forces are trying to force them to surrender, but so far the clashes are continuing," the SDF's Mustafa Bali was quoted to have said. The SDF had earlier reportedly said they would declare the group defeated once a search for hidden mines and jihadist holdouts was complete. Thus, the reported final defeat of the terrorist group at Baghouz means ISIS is no longer in control of any territory, ending the territorial rule that once spanned a third of Iraq and Syria. Also, in the later hours of Friday, President Trump also corroborated the reported defeat of ISIS in a series of tweets in his official and verified Twitter handle, @realDonaldTrump. Earlier, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, on a visit to Jerusalem, told reporters victory was 'close'. Pompeo was quoted to have said he was proud of 'the work that the United States did, the Department of Defense did, that the folks fighting down in the Euphrates river valley did', he said. "The threat from radical Islamic terrorism remains. We need to finish out the last few square metres there, in Syria. Still work to do," he said. However, the US military has reportedly warned that ISIS may still count tens of thousands of fighters, dispersed throughout Iraq and Syria, with enough leaders and resources to present a menacing insurgency. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android and read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a former president of Nigeria's Senate, Ameh Ebute, wrote an open letter to President Trump. Ebute said he believed that certain assumptions as contained in the "2018 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices" on Nigeria did not reflect the reality in our country under the President Muhammadu Buhari's administration. Street Gist: Will Nigeria be a better place with Trump as president? | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Supplementary elections: I believe in the will of the people, will not pressure voters - Buhari - President Buhari has promised not to put pressure on voters to elect leaders they do not like - The president disclosed this when he dismissed insinuations that he was forcing voters to elect candidates other than those they preferred during the supplementary elections - Buhari consequently assured Nigerians that he was ready to work with elected representatives of the people regardless of their party President Muhammadu Buhari says he believes in the will of the people and cannot put pressure on voters to elect leaders they do not like. Buhari statement by his senior special assistant on media and publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Friday, March 22, dismissed insinuations that he was forcing voters to elect candidates other than those they preferred during the supplementary elections scheduled for 17 states on March 23. The president said at no time did he give instructions that the electorate should vote particular candidates. READ ALSO: Tribunal chairman disagrees with judgement declaring Adeleke as winner The President assured Nigerians that he was ready to work with elected representatives of the people regardless of party platforms on which they were elected. President Buhari said he would work in the best interest of the country and democracy. President Buhari, who thanked voters for re-electing him for a second term in office, said he would never forget their sacrifices in defying harsh weather conditions to vote for him. He said: I was deeply overwhelmed by your show of incredible confidence in me, and I will never let you down. Thank you for your sincere show of support for me. President Buhari, however, appealed to voters not to get tired of coming out to vote in the supplementary elections, adding these elections are no less important than others before them. He appealed to voters to vote for the candidates they believed would deliver on promises because it is your constitutionally guaranteed democratic rights. President Buhari also called on INEC and security agencies to ensure that the supplementary elections are conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law and constitution. He, therefore, called on the electorate to come out en masse and participate in the supplementary elections. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had previously reported that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday, March 21, raised fresh alarm claiming that the All Progressives Congress plans to use the military to hijack the forthcoming supplementary polls. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app The opposition party also expressed belief that it would win the governorship election in all the states where the exercise has been rescheduled to hold. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded 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 | Election 2019: APC was not prepared for polls in Akwa Ibom - Group - A group in Akwa Ibom has stated that the APC was not prepared for the governorship election in the state - The Akwa Ibom Liberation Movement said the APC was instead depending federal might to muscle their way into power - The group also accused the APC of plotting to arm twist judiciary officials sitting on the election petition tribunal A sociopolitical organization based in Akwa Ibom state, Akwa Ibom Liberation Movement (AILM), has stated that the leadership of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state was not prepared for elections but instead depended on federal might to muscle their way into power. The group was responding to the Akwa Ibom APC chairman's call for relocation of the state elections tribunal from Uyo to Abuja. The APC leader, Ini Okopido, in a letter dated Thursday, March 21, had asked the Attorney General of the Federal (AGF) and Minister for Justice, Abubakar Malami, to relocate the states election petition tribunal to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The leader of AILM, Prince Emmanuel Sam, said APC lacks moral justification to point fingers at any person or organization, stressing that few honest members of the party have admitted honourably that their party did not prepare for the election. READ ALSO: Osun election tribunal: Why Adeleke was declared winner of governorship election He noted that typical of a bad loser, the APC has spared no effort at lamenting and trying to find faults in the electoral process that was copiously praised by local and foreign observers to be credible, free and fair. His words: The APC was not prepared for the election. Its leaders were only planning to intimidate, coerce and rob Akwa Ibom people of their inalienable right to choose freely at the polls. That prompted the craze at every of their campaigns, leaders of the party sung the fabled "federal might." Nevertheless, everyone saw the might in the unprecedented massive deployment of military and police personnel to the state, incessant arrests of PDP stalwarts on trumped up charges before and during the election. There are evidences that the APC did not spare any arsenal at its disposal in its failed attempt to 'capture' Akwa Ibom state (using the words of APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomole); but all the evil schemes failed through God's divine intervention. Consequently, if the party insists that the election 'was fraught with manifest irregularities and wide spread electoral infractions,' it is merely confessing to a crime it committed within a very limited area of influence, which as a matter of fact failed to affect the results from the entire state. We understand APC's grouse against INEC and its officials especially the REC, Mr.Mike Igini. It may be true that APC's onslaught against Igini was as a result of its inability to have the REC manipulate the election in their favour. A curious point that has perhaps eluded leaders of the party is that the federal government controlled INEC is already aware of the impeccable character of the REC. Therefore, it may take more than unsubstantiated accusations to indict him. There are still reasons to believe that had the party spent half of the resources it is spent to blackmail INEC in ward tours, its outing may not have been as miserable as it was. That at least would have given the party a fair basis to create more false claims ahead of election tribunal hearing than it is doing now. The group also accused the APC of plotting to arm twist judiciary officials sitting on the election petition tribunal, adding that the relocation request was so the party could have an influence on the tribunal members. On this, we insist that the Electoral Act is very clear on the location of election tribunal for states elections. We insist that Akwa Ibom state is peaceful and suitable for the election tribunal, the group added. READ ALSO: Osun Election Tribunal: APC to appeal Osun judgement Meanwhile, Akwa Ibom elders have commended the people of the state for voting massively for the reelection of Governor Udom Emmanuel, describing their action as a liberation for the state. Speaking in Uyo recently on the outcome of the general elections in the state, the elders led by the chairman of Divine Mandate Campaign Organization, Otuekong Idongesit Nkanga, acknowledged the resolve of Akwa Ibom people to vote their choice during the polls. The elders hailed the people of the state for defying intimidation and harassment during the entire duration of the exercise. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! Suspected political thugs hijack ballot materials in Rivers state | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Election Tribunal: Oyetola addresses Osun people after judgement recognises Adeleke as governor - Governor Gboyega Oyetola said he still remains the legitimate government of Osun - A tribunal had declared Ademola Adeleke of the PDP winner of the election - The governor said the judgement has already been appealed Governor Gboyega Oyetola of Osun says the judgment of Election Petition Tribunal that sacked him has been put on appeal Oyetola, in a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Wole Oyebamiji, on Friday in Osogbo said justice will prevail. READ ALSO: Osun election: Tribunal chairman disagrees with judgement declaring Adeleke as winner The statement read: The Government of the State of Osun wishes to appreciate the teeming support of the majority of the people in all things essential for mutual progress. As it is, the administration of His Excellency, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, Governor, State of Osun wishes to assure the people that the judgment of the Election Tribunal has been put on appeal. This is to further assure all the residents of the state of adequate security of lives and properties, as the Government of the State is still the only legitimate government having the authority to govern the State. We assure all our people that justice will prevail at last, and the law enforcement agencies have been instructed to maintain law and order across the state. We therefore urge all the residents of the state to go about their lawful duties without any hindrance. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja. on Friday, declared Adeleke winner. The three-member panel held that the rerun election that held on Sept. 27, 2018, was illegal. The tribunal, therefore, deducted the votes scored by the APC candidate, Gboyega Oyetola, in the rerun after declaring the rerun illegal. The tribunal said Adeleke won the election at the first ballot on Sept. 22 and the rerun that INEC devised to reach a final conclusion a week later was illegal. The declaration of Oyetola is null and void, the tribunal ruled in a majority decision with one member dissenting. Recall that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun says it will appeal the tribunal judgment that declared Sen. Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winner of the September 2018 re-run governorship election in Osun. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app Kunle Oyatomi, the APC Director of Publicity, Research and Strategy, said in a statement on Friday in Osogbo that the verdict would not stand superior legal scrutiny. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! Protect your vote to make it count - PDP Guber Candidate | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Breaking: Electoral materials set ablaze in Benue Suspected thugs on Saturday, March 23, reportedly set ablaze electoral materials meant for supplementary elections in the entire Azendeshi ward in Chito town of Benue state. Chito town is the headquarters of Azendeshi ward with 13,000 voting population. According to The Nation, the electoral materials were said to have been kept at a public primary school before thugs belonging to one of the political parties overpowered security men and set them ablaze. READ ALSO: Live updates: Situation reports, collation of results as APC, PDP battle for votes in supplementary gov elections There were also reports of a similar situation in part of Kwande local government area as thugs manhandled INEC staff and destroyed electoral materials but the situation was said to have been brought under control. Apart from these isolated cases the election was generally peaceful in Benue with a large turnout of voters at various polling units as earlier as 8am. As at the time of filing this report, the process was still ongoing in 22 local government areas out of 23 where the rerun exercise is taking place. PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update In a related development, voters and some journalists covering the supplementary governorship election in Kano state escaped lynching by some suspected thugs at Suntulma Primary School in Gama ward of Nasarawa local government area of the state. The journalists, who were in the area to monitor the poll, were chased out of the place by the hoodlums, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports. 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 Home | News | General | Kano rerun: Security beef up as police send more officers to Nasarawa LGA - Police command in Kano has sent more reinforcement to Nasarawa local government in Kano state - The reinforcement, according to the command's PRO, is to provide additional security personnel to the areas - DSP Abdullahi Haruna also disclosed that the high security beef up was due to visit police DIG, Anthony Micheal, to the area The police command in Kano state has sent more reinforcement of security personnel to Gama ward of Nasarawa local government to beef up security at the polling units located in the ward. The public relations officer of the command, DSP Abdullahi Haruna, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kano. He said that the deployment of additional security personnel to the areas followed the visit by the deputy inspector general of police, Anthony Micheal, to the area. READ ALSO: Live updates of supplementary governorship elections He said that following the report on the security challenges at the area, the DIG visited the ward to assess the security situation there. According to him, the deployment of additional security personnel was necessary as part of efforts to enhance security as well as ensure the protection of lives and property in the affected areas. He said: The DIG has visited Gama ward to assess the situation and had since sent more reinforcement to protect lives and property. He, however, added that the situation had since been brought under control. On the alleged arrest of the commissioner for special duties, Muktar Ishaq, the police spokesman denied the story, saying I am not aware of arrest of any commissioner. PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that voters and some journalists covering the supplementary governorship election in Kano state on Saturday, March 23, escaped lynching by some suspected thugs at Suntulma Primary School in Gama ward of Nasarawa local government area of the state. The journalists, who were in the area to monitor the poll, were chased out of the place by the hoodlums. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) --> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! 6 things that may happen on Election Day | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | More trouble for IPOB leader Kanu as Biafra activist says he collected money from PDP, Atiku - Anthony Nwoko, a Biafra activist, has called out IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu - Nwoko, at a press conference, said the IPOB leader has failed and is not fit as Biafra leader - Among others, Nwoko also alleged that Kanu collected money from PDP ahead of presidential election Anthony Nwoko, an activist, has berated the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, and his Biafra Independent Movement (BIM) counterpart, Ralph Uwazuruike, for compromising the Biafra struggle for personal profit. Nwoko, in a report available in Vanguard, raised heavy allegations against the duo among which was collecting money from Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking at a press briefing in Enugu on Friday, March 23, aggrieved Nwoko also said Kanu has failed and is inconsequential to the movement. READ ALSO: Live updates of supplementary governorship elections He said: It is time for Igbos to realize that they have fumbled for a long time. The agitators from the Igbo land have failed. Nnamdi Kanu with his group has failed, Uwazuruike and his group failed, Uchenna Madu with his group has failed. ''Let them come and see the great light from the East who is going to offer great glory into their lives this year, 2019. On the part of Nnamdi Kanu, whatever money he collected from the PDP which I saw from the revelation, let Atiku go and collect his money and forget about IPOB business with Biafra. IPOB and other groups dont have any standing to talk about Biafran nation because they are not mandated to do it. Nnamdi Kanu has already decided that he will not walk within Christs mandate and for that reason, IPoB and his group should forget about the Biafran message that God has sent to his people. Wherever Nnamdi Kanu is, let him and his boys sheath their sword and seek peace. Many have died in the name of IPOB. I tell my people to repent for the hour has come.'' Giving out advice to President Muhammadu Buhari on his victory, He also called on the Igbo people to look inward to another direction towards the actualisation of their Biafra struggle. He added:''You want Biafra, give me seven days. Biafra is not a hidden mandate; it is a nation that will give peace to the entire world. Nobody can cover the light of God. Tell the elected governors that God is about to do a new thing in this nation, precisely the Biafran Nation. ''Buhari should calm down and welcome the glory of God which is superior to him. If he thinks he is going to rule Nigeria with this kind of situation the nation is in right now, he is making a blunder. God did not accept his first four years and he has also rejected his second tenure.'' PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Thursday night, February 14, asked members of the separatist group to participate in 2019 general elections after initially calling for a boycott. Kanu said: "Having confirmed this evening that all our preconditions and terms have been met, signed, sealed and delivered; I hereby call-off the election boycott across Biafraland on February 16 presidential election." NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! THE SCOOP: IPOB proscribed, Nnamdi Kanu vanishes, 2600 rifles from Turkey | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | LIVE UPDATES: Voting ends, sorting begins as APC, PDP slug it out in supplementary governorship elections in 5 states 15:14 PM 68417 views by Nurudeen Lawal The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to conduct supplementary elections in the states where the governorship elections and some House of Assembly elections were declared inconclusive. The supplementary elections will be taking place today, Saturday, March 23. The governorship elections were declared inconclusive in six states, namely; Bauchi, Adamawa, Plateau, Sokoto, Benue and Kano states. However, only five of the affected states will be participating in the re-run elections as INEC has postponed the supplementary election in Adamawa state following a court order. Thus, as residents of the concerned areas in the affected states troop out to cast their votes for their candidates, Legit.ng is on ground to give insightful and verified live updates of the elections. Updates from Benue state: INEC staff ready for the election Polling unit 014 (All saints primary school, Makurdi) Ward: Central South. INEC staff already set for the exercise slated to commence at exactly 8am. Also at Makurdi LGA, Polling Unit 011, Ward (Modern Market), INEC officials and security personnels are on ground already. Updates from Plateau state: Accreditation and election has started The number of registered voters 1,297. The presiding officer, Imabo Enerst, addressing electorates as election is about to start. At 8am PU 027, ward 013 Tundu Wada Jos North LGA, accreditation and election has started. An election observer casting his vote. Credit: Premium Times Source: UGC Updates from Sokoto state: Disagreement among political parties's agents reportedly stalled the electoral process Polling Unit 12, Ward 11 (Sarkin, Adar, Atiku) Voting started at 8am as scheduled. However, disagreement among the agents of the political parties has reportedly stalled the process. Also, the PO says card reader is functioning well. The number of registered voters in the unit is 585. Updates from Kano state: Conflict erupts in a polling unit in Gaya LGA Around 8.30am, conflict erupts in Ward Gaya Kudu, Polling Unit, agency for mass education. Security agents are, however, trying to control the situation. However, voting is going on peacefully in PU Gidan Maigari 004 and 005, Ward Gama in Nasarawa LGA. Some thugs who were trying to disrupt the process have been arrested by the security agents. Updates from Benue state: Voting continues peacefully Accreditation and voting is going on peacefully in PU 003, Ward Yandev North in Gboko LGA. Updates from Sokoto state: Accreditation and voting ongoing Kofar Atiku polling unit 009 in Sokoto state, voting ongoing peacefully. Also, voting started at PU 003 Magajin Rafi B Ward, Sokoto North LGA at 08.27am, a little later than the 8am schedule, the PO says. Updates from Kano state; PU 011, Karaye LGA, election materials yet to arrive PU 011, Karaye LGA, election materials yet to arrive as some members of the political party are disputing the location of the polling unit. Similar situation happens at PU Magajin Gan where there are no INEC officials available. Updates from Plateau state: Voting ongoing in some polling units Polling Unit: 018 Ward 06 Jenta Plateau Hotel Junction, Jos North LGA The number of registered voters 853. The presiding officer, David Haruna, said voting started at about 8am. Updates from Kano state: No election in Rimin Gado LGA Supplementary elections are also expected to take place in Rimin Gado LGA ( Attawa, Tammawa, Dika, Gulu, Rimin Gado and Jilli). A report by Premium Times, however, states that people on ground at the affected areas said no election is going on anywhere because all the ballot papers have been pre-thumb printed." The newspaper also reports that a member of the House of Representatives for Gwale constituency, Garba Disu, arrived the Divisional Police station in Rimin Gado and complained that all the ballot boxes have been thumb printed. Both the lawmaker and the people we met accused the APC of the crime. How the APC and the PDP currently stand in the five affected states at the first ballot BENUE APC 329,022 PDP 410,576 PLATEAU APC 583,255 PDP 538,326 KANO APC 987,829 PDP 1,014,353 BAUCHI APC 465,453 PDP 469,512 SOKOTO APC 486,090 PDP 489,558 Updates from Sokoto state PU 003 Magajin Rafi B Ward, Sokoto North LGA. Voting started 8.27am, a little later than the 8 AM schedule, the PO says. The late start according to the PO was because the card reader malfunctioned. "It's now working after it was fixed," says the PO. The exercise is currently going on in an orderly manner. There are 716 registered voters in this unit and the turnout is huge. Premium Times observes separate lines for males and females queuing to exercise their voting right. This is typical of other areas in Muslim-dominated Northwest state, the newspaper notes. Updates from Sokoto: A physically challenged person determined to vote "Despite the election violence, Habba Muhammad, a physically challenged Sokoto citizen, is determined to participate." Updates from Kano state: Voting ongoing where there were earlier claims of no voting Voting is going on smoothly at PU002 in Atawa village, Rimin Gado local government area Kano. This is contrary to earlier reports that no election is holding in the area Updates from Plateau state: Large turn-out of voters PU 014 Jenta Mangoro Ward 06 Jenta Adamu, Jos North LGA There is huge voters turn out as observed in all four voting points. The polling unit has 2,017 registered voters. Updates from Kano state: INEC officials just arrived PU 33, Ward Goburawa in Kano LGA. INEC officials just arrived PU 33, Ward Goburawa in Kano LGA. Updates from Bauch state: Voting going on peacefully Time: 9.57am State: Bauchi LGA: Toro Ward: Ribina PU: Sala Primary School (019) - Security personnel present (Police, NSCDC, Immigration) - Card Readers are working well - Average voter turn out - APC, PDP, PRP, SDP Party agents are present Updates from Plateau state: PU 06 and PU 07, WARD 11 at Angua Hausawa, Mishakam Palace, Mangu LGA Voting is going on smoothly. European Union observers are seen observing the process. There are 1,453 registered voters here. Updates from Kano state: Nasarawa LGA The Kano state commissioner of police, Mohammed Wakil, just arrived and he was received with shouts of Singham by both voters and onlookers who were all hailing the top cop. The larger bulk of votes is expected from Gama ward in Nasarawa local government which has a total of 62 polling units. Meanwhile, election is going on smoothly though locals are complaining that some of the voters are not from Gama. Updates from Sokoto state: Underage voters sighted Underage voters photographed while casting their ballot at Bondiga Tauma Ward in Sokoto. Underage voters photographed while casting their ballot at Bondiga Tauma Ward in Sokoto. Credit: Sahara Reporters Source: UGC Updates from Kano state: PDP calls for cancellation of the ongoing supplementary elections Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, the Kano state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has reportedly called on INEC to cancel the ongoing supplementary elections with immediate effect. He cited violence and other forms of electoral irregularities for the reason behind the call. Meanwhile, At PU 03, Gama Ward, Nasarawa LGA of Kano state, voters and observers were denied access to the polling unit. Updates from Sokoto state: Party bigwigs clash at polling units Some notable party chieftains have engaged in popularity supremacy at Magajin Gari ward B Shiyyar Danfarijo polling unit 005 and 009, where supplementary polls are taking place. This led to chaos in the supplementary poll for the Sokoto North local government area of Sokoto state. The presence of party chieftains, Alhaji Murtala Daniya of the PDP and two APC) chieftains, Alhaji Abdullahi Hassan, a one time chairman of Sokoto North LGA and APC youth leader, Nasiru Italiya at the polling center disrupted the procesess. Police had to use teargas on the crowd and deploy more personnel before normalcy was restored after the election was put on hold for about three hours. Updates from Kano: Violence as residents scamper for safety "The news coming out of Kano is disheartening. We are hearing of armed thugs attacking voters and disrupting the polls This video is out of Minjibir where voting was allegedly disrupted by armed thugs," popular journalist Kadaria Ahmed wrote as she shared photos and video of the disruption on Twitter. Updates from Sokoto state: Counting of votes begins Counting of votes has started at PU 002 Buida Bakintiti, Dange-Shune LGA, Sokoto state. Updates from Bauchi state: Voting ends, counting begins In Bauchi: Voting has ended in Jankude Ward, Polling Unit Bakin Rijiya 015, Itas Gadau LGA. Sorting and counting of votes now on. Updates from Kano state: Commissioner arrested Muktar Yakasai, Kano state commissioner for special duties, has been arrested for allegedly leading suspected thugs to disrupt the election at Yelwa Secondary School in Dala LGA. Policemen in the state were said to have picked Yakasai up alongside some of the suspected thugs. Updates from Benue state: Election materials set ablaze In Benue, elections did not hold in Azendeshi Ward, Chito, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, after political thugs set election materials for the entire ward ablaze. Updates from Kano state: Police send reinforcement to Gama ward The police command in Kano state has sent more reinforcement of security personnel to Gama ward of Nasarawa local government to beef up security at the polling units located in the ward. The public relations officer of the command, DSP Abdullahi Haruna, disclosed this to NAN. He said that the deployment of additional security personnel to the areas followed the visit by the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Anthony Micheal, to the area. He said that following the report on the security challenges at the area, the DIG visited the ward to assess the security situation there. According to him, the deployment of additional security personnel was necessary as part of efforts to enhance security as well as ensure the protection of lives and property in the affected areas. The DIG has visited Gama ward to assess the situation and had since sent more reinforcement to protect lives and property, he said, adding that the situation had since been brought under control. On the alleged arrest of the commissioner for special Duties, Muktar Ishaq, the police spokesman denied the story, saying I am not aware of arrest of any commissioner. Updates from Benue: Voting cancelled in a ward Voting has been cancelled in Chito Adzendechi ward in Ukum LGA, Benue state, after election materials were burnt by suspected thugs. Channels TV quoted Nentawe Yilwatda, the state REC, as saying this while reacting to the attacks. There are 13,000 registered voters in the ward. Atiku reacts as the supplementary elections continue The PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has lamented reported cases of violence that have marred the supplementary elections in some polling units. Updates from Sokoto state: Voting ongoing Voting still on at Magajin Rafi B Ward, Polling Unit 008, Sokoto north LGA. Meanwhile, The results have started trickling in from some of the polling units. Check the results here. Updates from Pleateau state: Electoral staff, policemen allegedly caught taking bribe YIAGA AFRICA says it got reports of bribery of polling unit and security officials receiving bribe in Angwa Kasua PU 001, Ward 11, Mangu LGA in Plateau state. Updates from Kano state: Notes from observers Kano, of all the five states where supplementary elections took place, has recorded the highest level of violence. At unit 008 and 010, Kwarkiya ward, Munjibir LGA, YIAGA said observers checklist were snatched and destroyed by suspected thugs. Observers were also chased away at polling unit 008, Kanawa ward; Cikin Gari ward 05, in Sumaila LGA; and PU 07, Batayya ward 02, Albasu LGA. In PUs 008 and 010, Kwarkiya ward of Minjibir LGA, Kano state, YIAGA Africa observers checklists were snatched and destroyed by suspected thugs. Observers and journalists were also chased away by suspected thugs in polling unit 008, Kanawa ward; Cikin Gari ward 05, in Sumaila LGA; and PU 07, Batayya ward 02, Albasu LGA; Zango PU 021, Karaye ward 03, Karaye LGA - all in Kano state. Also, Muhammad Garba, Kano state commissioner of information, was attacked by suspected thugs at Yelwa ward of Dala local government. The Cable reports that Garba was with Aminu Amu, his finance counterpart, when he was attacked at Dala. PDP thugs attacked us and smashed the windscreen of our vehicle at Dala local government area," he said. Source: Legit.ng CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General More than a dozen people have been charged for allegedly sharing videos of sick footage showing a female backpacker beheaded in Morocco. Danish police on Thursday said they had launched prosecutions against 14 people suspected of sharing the clip on social media of the murder video of one of two young Scandinavian hikers killed on December 17. Danish student Louisa Vesterager Jespersen, 24, and 28-year-old Norwegian Maren Ueland were found dead at an isolated hiking spot south of Marrakesh. Danish backpackers Louisa Vesterager Jespersen and Maren Ueland were slain in a brutal attack. Source: AP The pair were stabbed, had their throats slit and were then beheaded, according to Moroccos counter-terror chief. A video circulating on social networks at the time, believed authentic by authorities, showed one of the murders in the High Atlas mountains. The 14 people are accused of violating the penal code by sharing the video, usually via Facebook Messenger or other social networks, said East Jutland police chief Michael Kjeldgaard in a statement. A forensic team scours the grounds of the campsite where the backpackers were found. Source: AP Two of them are also accused of apologising for terrorism, the prosecution told AFP. Six of those indicted, whose identities have not been revealed, are between 13 and 18 years old. The grisly killings of the hikers shocked Morocco, where tourism is a cornerstone of the economy. Moroccan authorities have called the killings a terrorist act and charged more than 20 people for their alleged involvement. The authorities allege that the four main suspects in the murder were inspired by the Islamic State group, but say they were not in direct contact with IS members in Iraq or Syria. Moroccans paid tribute to Danish student Louisa Vesterager Jespersen and Norwegian Maren Ueland after they were murdered The dwindling number of young farmers, as well as the lack of support for government agricultural programs that are already in place, have prompted a non-government organization to seek the establishment of agriculture schools in all towns. In a letter to the House of Representatives headed by Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Jerry L. Pelayo, president of the Agricultural Growth through the Inclusivity and Leadership by the Private Sector for Accelerated Modernization or AGILA, said the establishment of such schools will energize modernize and industrialize the agriculture industry. In his letter, Pelayo, former mayor of Candaba, Pampanga, said Congress can pass a bill requiring state agricultural universities to establish extension campuses in all towns. He said the establishment of these extension campuses will entail partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Agriculture. The goal of this program is to help educate farmers on new agriculture technologies, financial literacy and possible opportunities in the agriculture indistry, Pelayo said.He sought a dialogue with agencies that are concerned with agruculture to further discuss or initiate moves to help improve the situation of the agriculture sector. In a recent summit, the group identified several problems bessettig the agriculture sector, such as (1) aging farmers and fishers; (2) climate change; (3) high cost of production; (3) market chain in the Philippines seems to be long which reduces farmer profit; (4) research outputs not properly downloaded to end users leading to lack of transfer of technologies; (5) government progams are in place but needs more people support in their implementation to attain sustainability with a mechanism for needed subsidies and other forms of assistance when required; (6) and a need to review further the policies and regulations on importation to control the oversupply in the market. Pelayo noted that because of the poor economic situation of farmers and fishermen, their children prefer to migrate to cities to find better-paying jobs. He said he believes Congress has a big role in the eventual implementation of AGILAs proposal. Panama's ex-president Ricardo Martinelli faces up to 21 years in jail for spying on political foes, reporters and business leaders while in power, prosecutors said Friday. Martinelli created and directed "an organized state apparatus" for domestic espionage when in office from 2009-2014, said prosecutor Ricaurte Gonzalez. The then-president targeted about 150 individuals with illegal communications tapping -- done with no court order, the prosecutor said. Those critical of Martinelli seemed to have drawn his closest scrutiny, becoming targets for his taps, Gonzalez added. Attorney Carlos Carrillo of Martinelli's legal team however insisted that it was impossible to link Martinelli himself with the offences of which he has been accused. Panama's former president (2009-2014) Ricardo Martinelli (C), is escorted by police officers as he leaves the court where he was attending a hearing over wiretapping allegations someone @ that shipp girl Reply Thread Link LMAOOOOO Reply Parent Thread Link LOL Reply Parent Thread Link Lmao, she really played herself! Reply Parent Thread Link this has aged perfectly. Reply Parent Thread Link lmao Reply Parent Thread Link lol oops! Reply Thread Link Lmao yall really acting like this merger means theyre recasting Alexandra Shipp (@AlexShipppp) December 14, 2017 Reply Thread Link recast what? isn't this x-men saga done with dark phoenix anyway? no doubt they're taking a new direction with the franchise anyway nice try girl Reply Parent Thread Link Marvel/Disney is surely gonna reboot, no matter when it happens. Reply Parent Thread Link Wolverine - Jon Bernthal Cyclops - Jensen Ackles Jean - Tatiana Maslany Mystique - Sofia Boutella Prof. x -Mark Strong Storm - Sonequa Martin-Green Magneto - Ralph Fiennes Reply Parent Thread Expand Link First thing I thought of. I hope Kiki Layne gets the role in the reboot lol Reply Parent Thread Link I do still really want to see New Mutants, idgaf, just give it to me. This whole Fox/Disney thing seems to be turning into a disaster, though. I don't need or want Disney to make every single fucking movie in the theatres. Reply Thread Link this. that franchise is so deserving of quality adaptations into other media. Reply Parent Thread Link they failed twice though. and i love chris evans but those films were terrible. don't even mention that michael b jordan one haha Reply Parent Thread Link I genuinely don't think its possible Reply Parent Thread Link thr telling us things we already knew and/or could figure out on our own. i also love that new mutants is included in the tweet but so irrelevant that op doesnt even include a snippet about it in the post. they mention even more reshoots at the source like lmaoooo this movie is n e v e r coming out also now that hickman is back writing at marvel feige needs to snatch him that write that ff script. Edited at 2019-03-23 03:30 am (UTC) Reply Thread Link the fact that theyre thinking of doing MORE reshoots for that movie is truly mind boggling like someone needs to look up the definition of a sunk cost jfc Reply Parent Thread Link let's give storm to Kiki Layne right now if not some other wonderful dark skinned actress like Tika Sumpter Reply Thread Link yassss @ the good sis Reply Parent Thread Link Is it weird that I give a look every time it was someone say that the MCU is made up of B List heroes? Reply Thread Link I took all of the post from the article. except, as noted, the stuff about new mutants bc who could care. Reply Parent Thread Link theyre certainly not B-List heroes now. The MCU has made Iron Man and Captain America as high profile as characters like Batman and Superman. Reply Parent Thread Link I thought it said b list actors lol oop Reply Parent Thread Link to be fair..........most of them were too at the beginning lmao Reply Parent Thread Link i can see die-hard comic fans being tetchy about them being referred to as that, but general moviegoers wouldn't know most of them had it not been for the MCU, and that includes a LOT of the avengers, and even best picture nominee black panther Reply Parent Thread Expand Link If we're a 100 percent honest, Captain America, Ironman, Thor, et al. weren't really as famous/recognized as the X-men, Spiderman or the Fantastic 4. They became A list superheroes thanks to the movies. Reply Parent Thread Link lmao marvel had spidey and the hulk. black widow was z list at best. thor, iron man were c list. cap b list maybe. dc cartoons dominated the scene back in the day, nobody was checking for the avengers nnn the films did them well tbh. nobody gaf about the justice league now Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I agree with the people saying they were B list, but like isn't that kinda why they still had the movie rights? Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Ill never get over my X-Men anger. They had such amazing casting and the only movie I find rewatchable is First Class Reply Thread Link Mte, I've rewatched First Class many times because despite being set in a certain time and place it ages well because it doesn't bash you over the head with ~nostalgia~. It's a good self contained story. That sub lift scene still gives me chills. Reply Parent Thread Link I just dont even get straight up changing source shit too. There are thousands of comic books with varied story lines that stay true to character core and you just decide to do what you want with the characters? Reply Parent Thread Link x-men deserved better. x2 was fantastic but ... pedo director ya now Reply Parent Thread Link amazing casting lmao Reply Parent Thread Link Amazing casting??? Reply Parent Thread Link I hate Deadpool. We get it you know youre in a movie! Reply Thread Link Okay but can we still keep McFassy alive please and thank you? Reply Thread Link yes pls their chemistry is off the charts Reply Parent Thread Link damn what the hell happened with fassbender, it's like he fell off the face of the planet (and vikander too) Reply Parent Thread Link A lot of really bad career choices I think. McAvoy just does weird shit all the time and uses the franchise $$$ to do that but I think Fassbender just picked a lot of duds bc I remember tons of magazines and awards people talking about how amaaaaazing he was and now it's like *crickets* Reply Parent Thread Expand Link the snowman happened Reply Parent Thread Expand Link He just stopped caring about his career imo Reply Parent Thread Link The film (Shame) that launched him into the public consciousness was followed by a string of commercial (Haywire, Frank) and/or critical (The Counselor, X-Men: Apocalypse) failures, punctuated by unmemorable faff (The Light Between Oceans, Jane Eyre). The critically acclaimed films he starred in languished at the box office (Steve Jobs, Macbeth, Slow West). His films that did tick both boxes were ensemble pieces (First Class, Days of Future Past, 12 Years A Slave). Reply Parent Thread Link He could have sexual chemistry with a lamp, it's insane. Reply Parent Thread Link he's so old looking now. all that sun and free time and unemployment....... Reply Parent Thread Expand Link well yeah, everything except L has been ruined by fox Reply Thread Link In what universe Captain America a B-list hero? Reply Thread Link the movies and ed brubakers comic run really helped raise cap's profile. he might have still been a-list by the general public standards just based on name recognition before then but he was nowhere near spidey or x-men levels. Edited at 2019-03-23 03:40 am (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link MTE Reply Parent Thread Link Id never heard of captain america before these movies honestly. I dont buy that he was even a list in name recognition (dont kill me yall lmao). I knew spiderman and hulk though of course. Reply Parent Thread Link Honestly like he really was. Like this isn't meant to be an insult but none of the Avengers bar the Hulk were Marvel's front line heroes at all, it was alllll about the X-Men and Spidey especially in the 90s, which is why they even still have them to make films with. It seems insane now but they really were not characters you would expect to be able to headline billion dollar movies, most of them were lucky to even sustain their own solo comic run and appear in a guest book. Meanwhile the X-men and Spidey were spawning entire universes on their own. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link outside of the comics the avengers were b-list. none of them had the same cultural cache as batman or superman who would be referenced in everything from tv shows and movies to academic papers and political speeches because they're such a part of public consciousness. Reply Parent Thread Link Before Marvel built the MCU, everyone was all about the X-Men. I remember before Iron Man came out being like "who tf is going to watch a movie about Iron Man??? No one gives a fuck about him." Now here we are 10+ years later and the Avengers are the darling of Marvel and the X-Men were nearly canned due to Marvel not having the movie rights. Reply Parent Thread Link From the way I understand the story, they sold the rights to most of their main, popular characters and this is what they had left. My comic journey began with Kamala Khan and branched our from her, so I cant say much towards that, but I understand they were popular but not in the way they are now. The movies turned them into the hot characters they are currently. Reply Parent Thread Link in this one Reply Parent Thread Link In the universe of 2009 Reply Parent Thread Link i love the x-men characters and really hope disney does them right. personally mcu movies feel sorta sanitized and formulaic in a way that doesn't excite me, so i was kind of sad to see the property leave fox Reply Thread Link tbh the x-men movies have crafted such a compelling alternate history timeline. i think it's much interesting to see these movies jump from each decade and set their narrative there. there were obvious missteps and unused potential but ignoring that, they have casted great, compelling actors for logan, xavier and magneto. Reply Parent Thread Link Yes, my favourite superhero movies have been some of The X-Men, Spider-Man 1 & 2 and The Amazing Spider-Man 1, and I also enjoyed stuff like Deadpool. I actually do not care for The Marvel movies *shrug* Reply Parent Thread Link Im on episode two or three rn, does she dump Ryans useless ass? And get with her roomies hot brother? I can barely continue cuz Ryan is so cringy Reply Thread Link [ spoilers ] Briefly, but he definitely bounces back in. And yes, but he doesn't live in town, so he bounces out. Sigh. Reply Parent Thread Link I tried reading Sam Irbys book and I kind of lowkey hated it. Thats all I have to say here as I havent started Shrill yet. Reply Thread Link Her writing is terrible. Reply Parent Thread Link ooohh good to know, I had it on my list of recs for my book club Reply Parent Thread Link "And personally I'm insulted that anybody would think Sam would watch an entire Ted talk - if you've read her work you know THAT IS NOT HER DEAL" is like, SUCH a weird...brag? idk, but besides that, knowing nothing about these people except what is in this post, I would definitely be Team Sam. Especially given the dates with filming versus the book release, and also if people are saying (once they realize that Sam wrote it) that she only did it because a white producer told her to, that's straight up fucking wild. Reply Thread Link i love all yall with my whole heart and please know that i would never ever ever ever ever watch a tedx talk samantha irby (@wordscience) March 22, 2019 I know v little about these people so everything is bizarre looking at it from the outside lol I didn't get that either and I saw this on Sam's own timelineI know v little about these people so everything is bizarre looking at it from the outside Reply Parent Thread Link "Never ever watch a tedx talk" is taking me tf out This is so messy my god Reply Parent Thread Link its because tedx talks mostly suck lol this is a funny tweet Reply Parent Thread Expand Link lmao i feel so similarly Reply Parent Thread Link The timing of the book is not really important. ARCs of that book would have been out way before its release, and it's not impossible that another writer read it. If she's been telling this story for a while, the book's release really isn't relevant anyway. That said...even if the writer was inspired by her experience, it's not plagiarism. If writers could never be inspired by someone else's experiences, no one would ever write anything. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link lol that tweet was also weird to me Reply Parent Thread Link It doesnt read like a brag to me? Its just the joke everyone makes about Ted Talks because, honestly, who has the time. I click ahead through two-minute videos of things that actually interest me. But yeah, saying she was forced to do it and isnt responsible for what she wrote isnt exactly better! Its still damaging to her reputation, but it lets them pretend theyre not directly attacking a black writer with spurious plagiarism claims. Reply Parent Thread Link You have to have a pretty high opinion of yourself to think you invented body positive parties or women overcoming their issues to embrace their curves. My only take away was I didn't know this show was filmed in Portland. Reply Thread Link Portland is the Ted Talk of cities. Reply Parent Thread Link omg you're right though Reply Parent Thread Link shrill is very good but Im mad it was only six episodes! we got ten for other hulu originals I also feel like other hulu originals have been spread over week by week like normal tv but for some reason the whole season of shrill was dropped on one day like its netflix or something. Im probs reading too much into it. Reply Thread Link They do that for some shows. All ten eps of PEN15 were released all at once and so was the second season of the Marvel series Runaways Reply Parent Thread Link Honestly I think its because the best episodes are later on in the series and they knew that Reply Parent Thread Link I was lost on how it ended. It was so abrupt. Reply Parent Thread Link I was so shocked when I realized it was only six episodes and I had already gone through the whole season, I demand more! Reply Parent Thread Link A lot of Hulu's originals are starting to be dropped all at once, they probably realized that most people just wait until they're all out to binge them so it seems like they've mostly given up on weekly episodic releases lol Reply Parent Thread Link this. I also feel like there was a lot more ground to cover on additional episodes, it ended so abruptly. Reply Parent Thread Link alone together and the last season of casual (2018) were dropped all at once Reply Parent Thread Link I saw Shrill and really liked it. Episode 4 was the best. I loved the pool party, I need to go to something like that. I wanted all those swimsuits. I will say the one thing that ruined the whole show for me was Ryan. I think that they we were supposed to think he was charming but he wasn't. That man-child thing is the most unattractive thing in the world. Reply Thread Link Yeah Im right with you, Im on the 5th(?) ep now and I cant fucking believe theyre still dragging his existence out, its exhausting. Reply Parent Thread Link Not going to spoil anything. So let me know what you think when you're finished. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Yeah, I was so thrilled when she dumped his ass then the minute I realized they were doing the ~redemption thing with him, ugh. When Annie said Fran was the female Ryan I was like BITCH YOU DID NOT. He's the worst and that beard is gross as fuck. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I haven't started watching yet, but I follow Ijeoma on Twitter and...yeah, this sounds kinda ridiculous. Just the timing stuff alone should clear it up, shouldn't it??? Virgie claiming it's just 'her' story sounds crazy entitled. When it is pointed out that Sam wrote it, I'm seeing these same white women pivoting to say that Sam probably didn't have any power & wrote the scene at the command of white producers. That I can definitely believe. I've definitely seen that argument played out, especially in fandom settings, the 'I'm not erasing a creator of color, I'm just saying they can't possibly have any autonomy and I'm here to defend them!' thing. It's gross. Reply Thread Link lol same Reply Parent Thread Link Honestly same, I read every word of this post because I'm living for it, lol. Reply Parent Thread Link i feel this way any time there's a ya post cuz idk a single name but i do know those ppl are INSANE Reply Parent Thread Link immaturity and hubris make for amazing petty drama lol. All those people backstabbing for ways to get each other 'cancelled', it's like middle school. Reply Parent Thread Link The YA posts are my fave too! Never know who any of those people are but its all soooo petty and overly dramatic and I love it. Reply Parent Thread Link So far, she's got a prologue: and part one: I can't wait for part two. it's crazy! if you like writing drama, you should def check out Jenny Trout's blog for the ongoing saga of the #WritingCommunity being a bunch of racist assholes doxxing people.So far, she's got a prologue: http://jennytrout.com/?p=12497 and part one: http://jennytrout.com/?p=12502 I can't wait for part two. it's crazy! Reply Parent Thread Expand Link literally why I'm here! Reply Parent Thread Link lmao same Reply Parent Thread Link I liked shrill It could be frustrating but the annoying choices characters made were pretty true to life Reply Thread Link exactly! i think it's very frustrating in the moment bc you want them to make better choices, but a lot of times it's bc you've been in the same situation and NOW you know better. it's not realistic if a character is always making sane, common sense decisions. what person alive can relate to that? Reply Parent Thread Link Do you follow any fat acceptance people on twitter or IG? Lol no Reply Thread Link i wanted to like shrill but idk, it was v tiring by the end tbh the entire fat acceptance movement and body positivity movement just dont resonate with me. like, im too small to see bodies like mine being ~radically accepted, but im big enough to get body shamed. that coupled with dysphoria and long term issues with food, yeah, i wish i was thinner but i also wish i didnt wish i was thinner Reply Thread Link Yeah, I'm kind of in the same boat. Are you also kind of in the small end of plus-sized? Reply Parent Thread Link virgie bugs the shit out of me Reply Thread Link She is awful. Her ~women's empowerment photoshoot this month...r u kidding me Reply Parent Thread Link Yeah, there's something about her that bothers me, but atm I can't quite pinpoint what it is. But I do remember her condemning ppl who got weight loss surgery as traitors and acting like someone else's choice to have it was a huge tragedy or something. Reply Parent Thread Link https://www.virgietovar.com/blog/how-assholes-affect-my-ability-to-be-nice-part-1 This is why I coudn't stand her. A guy she had a crush on is a bigot and an asshole because he didn't like her, and then had the audacity to find a girlfriend 10 years later. So she mocks the other woman, and blocks them all. This is why I coudn't stand her. A guy she had a crush on is a bigot and an asshole because he didn't like her, and then had the audacity to find a girlfriend 10 years later. So she mocks the other woman, and blocks them all. Reply Parent Thread Link omg what Reply Parent Thread Expand Link You can own intellectual property, but you cant own the narrative for an entire group of people just because you ~feel~ like you had a singular experience. Ashley C. Ford (@iSmashFizzle) March 22, 2019 Anyway, I liked Shrill a lot but the last episode annoyed me. She got (rightfully) called out for being a shitty friend but did nothing to resolve it and continued to focus on herself and then it was just....over. Anyway, I liked Shrill a lot but the last episode annoyed me. She got (rightfully) called out for being a shitty friend but did nothing to resolve it and continued to focus on herself and then it was just....over. Reply Thread Link it's so embarrassing when people take such a big swing with plagiarism claims like this without more solid proof. her story of being at one of those pool parties is obviously not unique enough to her to claim that a writer *copied* her to the extent that she is asking for a writing credit. Reply Thread Link It's especially silly to claim her experience was that unique when a pool party literally needs other people experiencing the exact same event for it to be a party Reply Parent Thread Link Watching this all play out was super embarrassing (on Virgies part). If youre going to accuse someone of plagiarism you better have iron clad receipts and to be frank the concept that was accused of being stolen is not a super original one. Reply Thread Link It's bizarre that people like this are writers but apparently don't grasp the idea that words have specific meanings. Plagiarism is not a word that's applicable to'this person wrote a fictional thing that sounded kinda like my anecdote of a real life experience', facts can't be copyrighted. Reply Parent Thread Link READ: Metro Manila water shortage to affect economic competitiveness READ: Palace to water execs: Shape up or ship out READ: Arroyo seeks to penalize erring water companies I'm all up for women making power moves in this male dominated industry Go, Vanessa! Reply Thread Link They could at the very least make it a male high school teacher but nooo Reply Thread Link This sounds like exactly the kind of silly rubbish that's perfect for Christmas. Sign me up Reply Thread Link that is essentially my motto for christmas movies 'that sounds ridiculous, i love it' Reply Parent Thread Link lol same Reply Parent Thread Link i love being christmas trash. Reply Parent Thread Link mte, i'll be watching. Reply Parent Thread Link I kind of love this premise. And Im all for Vanessa potentially becoming the Netflix Christmas Ingenue. Her acting is awkward and not good but I enjoy seeing her. Reply Thread Link Lol this is the sweet, innocent, back-handed compliment I come to ONTD to find. But yeah, shes a kaka actress who does that same stutter-acting thing that Hilary Duff does and I respect her hustle to remain relevant. Reply Parent Thread Link her accent as the duchess in the Princess Switch was so bad I was convinced she was gonna be a villain for like the first half hour. It just sounded really menacing. Reply Parent Thread Link It was just honestly so cartoonish and weird. Especially when I realize that child Lindsay Lohan did a much better British accent in her feature length debut. Reply Parent Thread Link Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in Hello! Your entry got to top-25 of the most popular entries in LiveJournal!Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in FAQ Reply Thread Link This movie was horrendous. She shouldnt act, produce or do anything really. She has no talent. Reply Thread Link Do you like anyone? Reply Parent Thread Link Yes! Why is everybody ask me that here. I like plenty of people. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link This is not the way I saw her career going but I respect her hustle. Plus adding producer to your CV ain't bad at all. Reply Thread Link i probably would have watched if they had cast a cute male lead but....they didn't so its a no from me dawg. Reply Thread Link So basically a Christmas version of Kate & Leopold? Ok, sure. Reply Thread Link Lol mte! Reply Parent Thread Link i loved that movie so much Reply Parent Thread Link Perfect. I can't even pretend I don't eat this ridiculous Christmas shit up. Give it to me. Reply Thread Link Netflix Christmas Queen! Hallmark who? Reply Thread Link this sounds like it means no princess switch 2. this information is very difficult for me to accept atm Reply Thread Link I appreciate a bad pun in my Christmas film titles so Im here for this Reply Thread Link The Princess Switch and her ep of Hot Ones really endeared me to her and now I think she's supes adorbs so I'll prob watch this when I need something cheesy to watch. Reply Thread Link In good news for buyers but dismal news for producers and traders, both Asian spot liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices, as well as European spot prices, continue to crash. According to traders, prices for the super-cooled fuel for May delivery to Northeast Asia dipped this week by 80 cents to $4.65 per million British thermal units (MMBtu). This marks the lowest price point in three years. Reuters said its close to the lowest point in Refinitiv records going back to 2010 of $4.00/MMBtu, which was reached in April 2016. The price drop is the 13th consecutive decline for the fuel. LNG spot prices in Asia have also uncharacteristically dipped below spot prices in Europe, the first time this has happened since January and February 2015. LNG markets have seen decreased demand this winter, particularly in Asia, home to 72 percent of global LNG demand, amid warmer than usual temperatures, and no major LNG production outages. With winter drawing to an end, producers and traders will have to wait for hotter summer months to see demand and, hopefully for them, prices increase. Usually after the normal peak winter season, demand weakens, then strengthens again in the hotter summer months as gas is needed to meet increased air conditioning usage. However, complicating the market is more supply coming from Australia, the U.S., and Russia, while Egypt recently re-entered the LNG market as a supplier after a hiatus of several years. Egyptian state gas company EGAS tendered to sell four cargoes of LNG for loading in April, people with direct knowledge of the matter said two weeks ago. The company is also marketing four cargoes for loading in May and three for June, Bloomberg reported, citing sources. Just a few years ago LNG producers were counting on unloading excess cargoes to Egypt. Related: Morgan Stanley: Oil To Rise To $75 This Summer LNG prices in Europe, for their part, have also dipped below the $5/MMBtu price point due to warmer than usual temperatures this time of year, large LNG imports and a more pronounced shift to renewables than in the Asia-Pacific market. Investment bank Morgan Stanley recently said that current European gas prices are more than $2/MMBtu below the long-run marginal cost of U.S. LNG and just shy of U.S. LNG short-run marginal costs. The Asian market is sending similar signals. We noticed that in 2016 when global gas prices were also low, LNG output declined both locally in the U.S. as well as globally. We noted that there seems to be no decline in LNG exports from Sabine Pass in the U.S. But we also noticed that storages at Sabine Pass are now full (according to Platts) including capacity offered by berthed vessels. Analysts with BofA Merrill Lynch Global Research said Thursday the onslaught of U.S. natural gas exports may be too much for the Asian market to digest, which means there is more pressure for European demand to balance the global markets. Related: Is Beijing Losing Its Footing In South China Sea? Many have been counting on increased LNG demand from China to help balance global LNG markets in the mid to long term. However, the current supply overhang in markets for the fuel will persist, impacting both long-term off-take agreements as well as short term trading on the spot markets. Yet, if trade tensions between the U.S. and China arent resolved, several LNG project proposals in the U.S. will likely not receive necessary funding from Chinese firms nor sign long-term off-take agreements. This dynamic could also lead to a shortage of the super-cooled fuel before the mid part of the next decade. On Wednesday, the most unpredictable president in U.S. history, Donald J. Trump, spooked markets when he warned that U.S. tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese exports are unlikely to go away anytime soon even if the two countries reach a deal to end their trade war. "We're not talking about removing them, we're talking about leaving them for a substantial period of time," Trump said. "Because we have to make sure that if we do the deal with China that China lives by the deal because they've had a lot of problems living by certain deals." By Tim Daiss for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Total Exploration and Production Southern Africa recently made a massive offshore gas discovery off the coast of Mossel Bay. First reports of the newly discovered Brulpadda well speculate that the field holds anywhere from 500 million to more than 1 billion barrels of oil equivalent. While on the surface this would seem to be objectively good news for South Africa at a time when the countrys leadership is looking for ways to diversify the nations energy mix, the history of Africas long-suffering energy sector indicates that the future of South African energy remains uncertain, to say the least. Totals finding, while considerable, is not enough to take over South Africas currently coal-dominated energy mix on its own, but its timing is certainly fortuitous--for Total, at least--in a particularly weak moment in terms of the countrys energy policy and energy security. The nations Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which oversees energy policy over the years of 2010 through 2030, has only been reviewed once since it was put into place in 2011. There is a new draft of the IRP from 2018 that accounts for an additional 8,100 MW of gas-to-power capacity integrated into South Africas energy industry by 2030, but this much-needed updated draft is still caught up in bureaucracy, waiting for approval. If South Africa hopes to boost its economy and become an African energy industry frontrunner without seeing major exploitation of and damage to its environment, experts argue, it is paramount that the government needs to solidify its gas regulatory policy in a hurry. This is no small task, however, as at present South African energy policy is, in many ways, in a state of flux. Just months before Totals major offshore gas discovery, South African Minister of Mineral Resources Gwede Mantashe had put a moratorium on all applications for oil and gas exploration to give his office the opportunity to update its process for licensing. One notable consequence of this decision was the relinquishing of a license to search for oil off South Africa by supermajor Royal Dutch Shell, thanks to what they saw as legislative uncertainty. Related: A Paradigm Shift In The Permian Whether the country is legislatively ready for a major influx of resources and investment or not, Totals discovery is already being lauded as a saving grace for the nations economy. President Cyril Ramaphosas investment-focused state of the nation address leaned heavily on this promise, saying that this could well be a game-changer for our country and will have significant consequences for our countrys energy security and the development of this industry. Ramaphosa acknowledges, however, that his administration has some work to do before that can become a reality. In a statement just hours after Totals announcement of their discovery on February 7, the South African president said that his cabinet will need to overhaul its energy sector legislation in order to properly regulate this significantly changing industry. Its understandable why Ramaphosa is so hopeful about Totals discovery and South Africas energy future in general. According to the South African Oil & Gas Alliance, the Brulpadda well discovery could translate to as much as 1-trillion rand (over $73 billion) for the South African economy over the next 20 years. While some rejoice, however, there are also many who take this news with a large grain of salt. Environmental groups such as Greenpeace see not just a potential for economic upturn, but for vast environmental mistreatment and destruction. Greenpeace Africas Chris Vlavianos has dismissed the initiative as reckless, saying that deep-sea drilling is far too risky. The possibility for an oil spill always exists, and the environmental impacts of deep-sea drilling for oil and gas are too significant to be ignored, with very little benefit or job creation for South Africans. By Haley Zaremba for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The opposition-led National Assembly of Venezuela this week voted to suspend crude oil shipments to Cuba after its president, Juan Guaido, slammed these exports as funding dark purposes in a tweet from Sunday. The Economist Intelligence Unit reports that Guaidos proposal was voted for unanimously and took immediate effect. However, it remains to be seen whether it will take actual effect as the Maduro government still seems to be in charge of PDVSA, the troubled national oil company. Last week, Guaido tweeted that Venezuela was sending around 47,000 bpd of crude to Cuba and these were worth US$2.58 million that would be better used at home. Venezuela needs more than ever to leverage its resources, rather than fund dark purposes. For years, Cuba's interference was allowed, justifying with an ideological brotherhood that was nothing more than giving away our oil, the self-declared interim president of Venezuela said when Venezuela was struck by a large-scale power outage. Venezuela is Cubas largest oil supplier under a barter deal sealed by the late leaders of the two countries, Hugo Chavez and Fidel Castro. The deal envisaged Cuba getting regular shipments of crude in exchange for its highly trained doctors and other professionals to work in Venezuela. At one point during this partnership, Cuba was receiving more than 100,000 bpd of Venezuelan crude, an analysis by Oliver Pieper for Deutsche Welle said. Now, however, this is probably down by a half as Venezuela struggles to keep its fields producing. Even so, Venezuelan crude is an important part of Cubas energy mix and its elimination from this mix would almost certainly lead to power outages for Cuba as well. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit, Guaidos National Assembly cannot stop Venezuelan shipments of crude to Cuba unless the U.S., which was quick to recognize the opposition leader as the legitimate leader of Venezuela, imposed more sanctions, targeting shipping and insurance companies involved in Venezuela crude oil exports to the island. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: 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... " " Teddy Roosevelt stretched out the powers of the president. Stock Montage/Getty Images When President William McKinley walked into the Palace of Music at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York, on Sept. 6, 1901, he was an enormously popular figure with an accomplished record as chief executive. That's why, despite the intense heat, so many people had lined up to meet him at the scheduled reception. But when he stretched out his hand to a 28-year-old former steelworker named Leon Czolgosz, the young man pulled a .32-caliber pistol from his pocket and fired two bullets at point blank range. President McKinley died of his wounds eight days later, and Czolgosz was executed the next month. The assassin was an avowed anarchist, and his reason for killing McKinley had nothing to do with the president personally; rather, he was motivated by an ideological belief that powerful rulers should be eliminated. There is no small irony in this because Czolgosz's action handed the presidency to a man who would do more to expand executive power than any president before him [source: Andrews]. Advertisement Theodore Roosevelt had made his name as the commander of the Rough Riders cavalry unit in the Battle of San Juan Hill in Cuba during the Spanish-American War. After the war he successfully campaigned for the governorship of New York where he established a record as a popular and effective reformer. But this was the era of "political bosses," when powerful, unelected men smoking cigars in back rooms could make or break a political career. The political boss of the Republican Party in New York at the time, a man named Tom Platt, didn't want a reformer and decided to prevent a second Roosevelt term by shuffling the brash young politician into the innocuous role of vice president. As with the actions of the anarchist assassin, this strategy would backfire. Theodore Roosevelt would be a ruler and reformer unlike any the country had ever seen. At 42, he was, and still is, the youngest person to have ever held the office of U.S. president. His view of his new position was simple, but unprecedented. Whereas previous presidents had, for the most part, followed the general rule that their role was to execute the laws created by Congress, Theodore Roosevelt felt that as Commander in Chief he was free to do as he pleased wherever, and whenever, he pleased unless the law specifically said he couldn't [source: Theodore Roosevelt Association]. It was a political philosophy that would change the U.S. presidency forever, ushering in a new era of executive power. ANTI-SMOKING advocates renewed on Friday, March 22, their call for higher tax rates for cigarettes saying it would be beneficial in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) epidemic in the Philippines.In a ANTI-SMOKING advocates renewed on Friday, March 22, their call for higher tax rates for cigarettes saying it would be beneficial in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) epidemic in the Philippines. In a statement for the World Tuberculosis Day, Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) Philippines Executive Director Dr. Maricar Limpin urged lawmakers to do their part in fighting TB by approving a higher tobacco tax rate. Increasing the taxes on tobacco products will tremendously help in the implementation of the current strategies for a TB-free Philippines and will promote better health for Filipinos, said Limpin. She noted how having more costly cigarette products will help dissuade smokers from continuing their vices while avoiding new smokers. Raising the tax on cigarettes to at least P60 per pack will discourage vulnerable sectors, such as the young and the poor, from smoking and prevent more Filipinos at risk from developing TB. In effect, we can kill the epidemic at its source, Limpin said. In addition, the public health advocacy head of the Philippine College of Physicians said having higher sin tax will help finance the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. The tax increase will generate funds to help augment the budget of the Department of Health, and lend extra support in the efforts to provide potentially better outcome in the countrys initiatives to end TB, said Limpin. TB is a disease caused by bacteria called mycobacterium tuberculosis, and spreads through the air when a person with TB coughs, sneezes, or talks. Studies show that smoking greatly increases the risk of contracting TB. In the Philippines, 581,000 people develop TB every year, with 60 people dying every day. (HDT/SunStar Philippines) FOLLOWING President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of "permanent" termination of talks with the communists, Malacanang clarified on Saturday, March 23, that the current administration is FOLLOWING President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of "permanent" termination of talks with the communists, Malacanang clarified on Saturday, March 23, that the current administration is still bent on pursuing peace negotiations with the communist insurgents at the local level. In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the local peace talks with the communists who seemed to be not controlled by communist founder Jose Maria Sison would push through. "The Administration still seeks peace. We are just trying a different tact by localizing the peace talks as the concerns of rebel groups vary from one locality to another especially so that Mr. Sison appears not to have control over the communist forces on the ground," the Palace official said. The President on Thursday, March 21, announced the permanent termination of peace talks with the communist movement, saying that he was no longer keen to entertain any persuasions to return to the negotiating table. Duterte made the pronouncement, even as he had already officially scrapped the peace dialogue with the communist rebels in November 2017 through Proclamation 360. Responding to Duterte's latest statement, Sison said the Chief Executive is like an "old broken record repeating ad nauseam (to a sickening degree)" his termination of the peace negotiations. Panelo said the remark of Sison, who has been in self-exile in the Netherlands since 1987, was a "case of the pot calling the kettle black." "If as Mr. Sison says the President sounds like a broken record, the cantankerous steak chieftain of the National Democratic Front is like an echo with his repeated criticisms of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and this Administration to stay politically relevant in the Philippines while maintaining and lapping up his lavish lifestyle in Europe," he said. "Unlike Mr. Sison who has prolonged the peace process so he can milk the situation and continue freeloading in the Netherlands as well as enjoying the donations and grants by socialist organizations to his group, President Duterte has tread the path that his predecessors did not dare take to achieve genuine peace," Panelo added. Story continues Panelo also defended Duterte, saying that the President is merely using the presidency as a "bully pulpit" to expound his views and agenda to a greater and wider audience. He also stressed that Duterte has reasons to permanently scrap the peace talks. "Such platform is given to him by the people who placed him there by a democratic process," he said. "It is thus vital to explain to the people where the President is coming from and why he officially announced the permanent termination of talks between the government and the CPP, notwithstanding the issuance of Proclamation No. 360," Panelo added. Panelo expressed hope that the communist group would show "genuine sincerity," as it seeks to pursue talks with Duterte's successor. He remained optimistic that the communist guerillas would realize that they first need to lay down their arms and avoid violence and destruction of public infrastructures and private properties before engaging in peace negotiation with the government. "While Mr. Sison is right that the peace negotiation can still be resurrected by a new administration, which President Duterte himself said, the [communists] must first demonstrate genuine sincerity in the peace process," he said. "Until such demonstration of sincerity, the localized peace talks shall be given impetus," Panelo added. (SunStar Philippines) Mark Wilson/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) -- Since May 2017, the special counsels investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election has been a constant presence in U.S. politics a complex narrative that has included a rotating cast of characters and myriad plotlines. Here is a roundup of the various figures who have been connected to the investigation at various points since President Donald Trump took office in January 2017. Jeff Sessions The two conversations that former attorney general Jeff Sessions had with Russian ambassador Sergei Kislyak both of which happened during the campaign when Sessions was a very public supporter of Trump were confirmed by the Department of Justice the day before he recused himself from any existing or future probes related to the presidential campaign. Without that recusal, Sessions would have been the one to oversee any such probes given his role as attorney general. In a statement on March 2, 2017, Sessions said that over several weeks he met with "relevant senior career department officials" to discuss whether he should recuse himself and, "having concluded those meetings today, I have decided to recuse myself from any existing or future investigations of any matters related in any way to the campaigns for president of the United States." The recusal made Sessions one of Trumps favorite targets, with the president regularly blasting Sessions for failing to warn him that he might have to recuse himself. In November, Sessions resigned at the request of President Trump and Sessions' chief of staff, Matthew G. Whitaker, a former U.S. attorney, took on the acting attorney general role. In February, William Barr, Trump's nominee and the attorney general under President George H.W. Bush from 1991 to 1993 was confirmed and sworn-in as attorney general. Barr now heads the Justice Department during a pivotal time, overseeing special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference of the 2016 presidential election. Rod Rosenstein After then-Attorney General Sessions recused himself from campaign related investigations, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein oversaw the Russia investigation. Rosenstein appointed Mueller as special counsel in May of 2017. Since that time, Rosenstein has overseen Muellers probe, at times publicly defending the investigation from criticisms lodged by Republicans and the president. Rosenstein has appeared before Congress several times since taking the reins of the probe. Once Attorney General William Barr was sworn-in in February, Rosenstein was no longer in charge of overseeing Mueller's investigation. ABC News reported that Rosenstein plans to leave the Department of Justice in mid-March. James Comey Former FBI Director James Comey was initially associated with the 2016 election after gaining notoriety for his public updates into the investigation into Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server during her tenure as secretary of state. His role in the Clinton email investigation was cited in the letter that Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein issued calling for his dismissal in May 2017. "I remember just thinking, This is a lie. The stuff about, you know, being fired because of the Hillary Clinton email investigation, that makes no sense at all," Comey told ABC News Chief Anchor George Stephanopoulos in April 2018. "And then, of course, I quickly saw on the news that you know, the White House saying that the FBI was in tatters and the workforce -- it was relieved that I was fired. More and more lies. And so I was worried about the organization, worried about the people." Right after he was dismissed, the White House publicly denied that Trump was considering the handling of the FBI investigation into his campaigns possible ties with Russia when he fired Comey. But then, a couple of days later, Trump himself appeared to contradict that in an interview with Lester Holt of NBC News. When I decided to just do it, I said to myself, I said, 'You know, this Russia thing with Trump and Russia is a made up story, it's an excuse by the Democrats for having lost an election that they should have won,'" Trump told Holt. Matthew Whitaker Matthew Whitaker was named as the acting-attorney general on Nov. 8, 2018. Though Rosenstein had been overseeing the Russia probe during Sessions' tenure because of his recusal, that then shifted to Whitaker when he became the acting attorney general. Whitaker had previously criticized the probe a point of contention for Democrats when he appeared at a recent hearing before the House Judiciary Committee. Whitaker defended his performance saying that he had "not interfered in any way with the special counsel's investigation," but he refused to say whether he had discussed the Michael Cohen case with President Trump. In March, shortly after Bill Barr was confirmed as attorney general, ABC News reported that Whitaker left the Justice Department. Bill Barr Trump named Bill Barr as his new pick for attorney general in December of 2018, exactly one month after the departure of Jeff Sessions. He previously served as the nations top law enforcement official during former President George H.W. Bushs administration. Barr attempted to make it clear to wary Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee during his confirmation hearing that he will not unnecessarily or inappropriately interfere with the Russia investigation, but he did not commit to a full public release of Mueller's report as Democrats wanted. At one point during his opening remarks in January, Barr noted how he has known Mueller for 30 years and how they worked closely together during his earlier time at the Department of Justice. When he was named special counsel, I said his selection was good news and that, knowing him, I had confidence he would handle the matter properly. And I still have that confidence today, Barr said of Mueller during the hearing. At an earlier hearing, Barr said that he thinks it is in the best interest of everyone. that this matter be resolved by allowing the special counsel to complete his work. Barr was confirmed by the Senate and sworn in in February. Paul Manafort In the years prior to joining the Trump orbit, Manaforts political consulting work focused largely abroad, working for Ukraine's since-toppled President Viktor Yanukovych, and his political party, the Party of Regions, starting in 2006 and continuing until at least 2010. In the United States, Manafort, 69, was known in Republican Party politics for decades having worked for Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush before joining the Trump campaign in March 2016 as the campaigns convention manager and then getting promoted to campaign chairman two months later. Manafort was found guilty on eight counts of financial crimes as part of the first major prosecution won by the team led by special counsel Robert Mueller's team. On the eve of a second trial in Washington, DC, in September, Manafort pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors. But that plea deal was short-lived. The special counsels office accused Manafort of lying to prosecutors after agreeing to cooperate, which they say amounted to a breach of his agreement. Defense counsel claimed Manafort did not intentionally lie, but the federal judge overseeing his case sided with prosecutors. He has been behind bars since June after the judge in his D.C. case revoked his bail amid allegations of witness tampering. Sentencing dates in both courts have been set and delayed after the Office of Special Counsel moved to set aside the plea deal based on the allegations that Manafort had lied. The special counsel's office has since filed a sentencing memo for Manafort in Virginia, in which prosecutors agreed with the findings of an independent pre-sentence report, which calculated that Manaforts crimes call for a prison sentence of up to 25 years. Michael Flynn The first and only Trump White House aide to plead guilty to a crime in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian influence operations targeting the 2016 presidential election was a decorated retired military intelligence officer, Army Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, who the president had insisted serve as his White House national security adviser. In prosecuting Flynn for lying to FBI agents, a felony, about his discussions with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak about U.S. sanctions and other subjects, prior to Trump being sworn in as the 45th U.S. president, Mueller not only secured a key witness but he also sent a message to other witnesses in the probe to cooperate fully though several more Trump campaign aides later admitted to lying to the FBI anyway. Rick Gates Gates was a Trump campaign aide who was brought into the then-future-presidents orbit by his longtime boss Manafort. Gates served as the governments star witness in their trial against Manafort, and Gates admitted that they shielded millions of dollars in offshore accounts to keep it away from tax collectors. Gates was charged in two separate federal courts in connection to financial crimes, unregistered foreign lobbying and on allegations that he made false statements to federal prosecutors. Gates pleaded guilty in Washington, D.C., in February 2018 on counts of conspiracy against the United States and lying to federal prosecutors. As part of his plea agreement, he avoided prosecution on a slew of financial charges in the Eastern District of Virginia that included assisting in the preparation of false income taxes, bank fraud, bank fraud conspiracy and false income taxes. His charges are intimately tied to those of Manafort. In the Eastern District of Virginia, the two were indicted jointly. Konstantin Kilimnik Kilimnik is a longtime business associate of Paul Manaforts who was responsible for overseeing the Kiev, Ukraine office of Manaforts lobbying firm. In August of 2016, shortly after the Republican National Convention, Manafort, his business associate Rick Gates, and Kilimnik met at the Grand Havana Room, a cigar club in New York. In a closed-door hearing in Manafort's case in early February, special counsel prosecutor Andrew Weissmann told the judge that the meeting goes "very much to the heart of what the special counsel's office is investigating." Earlier Manafort indictments refer to a "Person A" who was identified by sources as Kilimnik. However, he was formally identified in a third superseding indictment against him and Manafort, which accused Kilimnik of conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstruction of justice. The charges he faces are linked largely to an attempt to relay messages from Manafort in his alleged attempt to tamper with potential witnesses in the case against him. Kilmnik has been identified as having ties to Russian intelligence. Though he's been indicted, he has not entered a plea. He remains out of reach of U.S. law enforcement. Michael Cohen One of the longest-serving members of the Trump inner circle who has come under scrutiny is Michael Cohen, Trump's former personal attorney and longtime fixer. Cohen's activity during the campaign came into the national spotlight in reference to payments made to two women who alleged that they had affairs with Trump, affairs Trump has denied. In August 2018, Cohen pleaded guilty to eight counts, including two related to illegal campaign contributions "in coordination and at the direction of a candidate for federal office." The charges were brought by federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York. He was sentenced to three years in prison for charges including campaign finance violations, tax evasion, and lying to Congress. According to court documents, Cohen admitted that he made the misstatements about the Moscow Project the Trump Organizations efforts to pursue a branded property in Moscow in an August 2017 letter to the House and Senate intelligence committees, which were conducting inquiries into alleged collusion and Russian interference. Ultimately, the proposed plan to build a Trump tower in Moscow was scrapped. Cohen has cooperated with Mueller and participated in multiple interview sessions with investigators from the office of special counsel Mueller, totaling more than 40 hours, sources told ABC News. Roger Stone Given his decades-long role in Republican politics, Stone was one of the better-known members of the extended Trump network of campaign advisers. His colorful history from the tattoo of former President Richard Nixon that he has on his back, to being a self-described dirty trickster in Republican politics for decades made him one of the most visible politicos in Trumps orbit. Stone was arrested in January after Mueller filed a seven-count indictment against him as part of the ongoing probe into Russia interference during the 2016 presidential election. The special counsel leveled against Stone, 66, five counts of lying to Congress, one count of obstruction of an official proceeding, and one count of witness tampering. He has pleaded not guilty and the federal judge overseeing his case has since issued a gag order on all parties involved in the case including the gregarious Stone. Carter Page Page was a foreign policy adviser to the Trump campaign and came under FBI scrutiny during the campaign itself because according to the FISA application, the FBI believed he had been the subject of targeted recruitment by the Russian government, according to an application with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. Page is alleged to have had established relationships with Russian Government officials, including Russian intelligence officers. Page told Stephanopoulos in February 2018 that there was "no basis" for the FBI to eavesdrop on him and called their investigation just complete ridiculousness. Felix Sater The Soviet-born American businessman, who, along with Michael Cohen, held discussions with Russians about a possible Trump tower in Russia used to describe himself as a senior advisor to Donald Trump. Sater is also a convicted felon and one-time stock scammer who promised to "get all of Putin's team to buy in" on a proposed plan to build "Trump Tower Moscow" in the heat of the presidential campaign. Donald Trump Jr. One known contact that several members of the Trump team had with Russians during the campaign came through a meeting arranged through pop music promoter Rob Goldstone with the presidents son, Donald Trump Jr, and a Russian attorney in Trump Tower on June 9, 2016. Accounts of the motive for the meeting, the nature of the meeting and the attendees involved changed after The New York Times first reported about the meeting in July 2017. The initial statement about the meeting which it was later determined to have been drafted by President Trump said that the meeting was about adoption policy. But as emails released by Trump Jr. show, he believed he was meeting the lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, to obtain damaging information about his father's then-Democratic rival Hillary Clinton. In addition to Trump Jr., two other key Trump campaign officials attended the meeting - then-chairman Paul Manafort and campaign adviser and Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner. In a statement on behalf of Donald Trump Jr., Trump Organization attorney Alan Futerfas previously said, Donald Trump Jr. has been professional and responsible throughout the Mueller and Congressional investigations. We are very confident of the accuracy and reliability of the information that has been provided by Mr. Trump, Jr., and on his behalf. Jared Kushner Kushner, who married into the Trump family when he wed Ivanka Trump, was an ever-present member of the Trump campaign and remains a key senior adviser in the administration. Because of his intimate role in the campaign, as well as his presence at the Trump Tower meeting with the Russian lawyer, questions about his contacts with Russians and knowledge of others were inevitable. In July 2017, Kushner became the first Trump family member questioned by the Senate Intelligence Committee as part of the investigations into Russian meddling. He released a statement before the closed-door session denying any collusion with Russia. "Let me be very clear: I did not collude with Russia, nor do I know of anyone else in the campaign who did so. I had no improper contacts. I have not relied on Russian funds for my businesses," Kushner said. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Gold Mid-Tier GDXJ Stocks Fundamentals The mid-tier gold miners stocks have been rallying on balance in recent months, carving a solid young upleg. Theyve mostly finished reporting their latest fourth-quarter results, revealing how they are faring fundamentally. Their operating and financial performance is very important for investors, as the mid-tier realm is where most of the gold-stock sectors gains accrue. They fared really well in a challenging quarter. Four times a year publicly-traded companies release treasure troves of valuable information in the form of quarterly reports. Required by the US Securities and Exchange Commission, these 10-Qs and 10-Ks contain the best fundamental data available to traders. They dispel all the sentiment distortions inevitably surrounding prevailing stock-price levels, revealing corporations underlying hard fundamental realities. While 10-Qs with filing deadlines of 40 days after quarter-ends are required for normal quarters, 10-K annual reports are instead mandated after quarters ending fiscal years. Most gold miners logically run their accounting on calendar years, so they issue 10-Ks after Q4s. Since these annual reports are larger and must be audited by independent CPAs, their filing deadlines are extended to 60 days after quarter-ends. The global nature of the gold-mining industry complicates efforts to gather this all-important fundamental data. Many mid-tier gold miners trade in Australia, South Africa, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries with quite-different reporting requirements. These include half-year reporting rather than quarterly, long 90-day filing deadlines after year-ends, and dissimilar presentations of operating and financial results. The definitive list of mid-tier gold miners to analyze comes from the GDXJ VanEck Vectors Junior Gold Miners ETF. Despite its misleading name, GDXJ is largely dominated by mid-tier gold miners and not juniors. GDXJ is the worlds second-largest gold-stock ETF, with $4.1b of net assets this week. That is only behind its big-brother GDX VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF that includes the major gold miners. Major gold miners are those that produce over 1m ounces of gold annually. The mid-tier gold miners are smaller, producing between 300k to 1m ounces each year. Below 300k is the junior realm. Translated into quarterly terms, majors mine 250k+ ounces, mid-tiers 75k to 250k, and juniors less than 75k. GDXJ was originally launched as a real junior-gold-stock ETF as its name implies, but it was forced to change its mission. Gold stocks soared in price and popularity in the first half of 2016, ignited by a new bull market in gold. The metal itself awoke from deep secular lows and surged 29.9% higher in just 6.7 months. GDXJ and GDX skyrocketed 202.5% and 151.2% higher in roughly that same span, greatly leveraging golds gains. As capital flooded into GDXJ to own junior gold stocks, this ETF risked running afoul of Canadian securities laws. Canada is the center of the junior-gold universe, where most juniors trade. Once any investor including an ETF buys up a 20%+ stake in a Canadian stock, it is legally deemed a takeover offer. This may have been relevant to a single corporate buyer amassing 20%+, but GDXJs legions of investors certainly werent trying to take over small gold miners. GDXJ diversified away from juniors to comply with that archaic rule. Smaller juniors by market capitalization were abandoned entirely, cutting them off from the sizable flows of ETF capital. Larger juniors were kept, but with their weightings within GDXJ greatly demoted. Most of its ranks were filled with mid-tier gold miners, as well as a handful of smaller majors. That was frustrating, but ultimately beneficial. Mid-tier gold miners are in the sweet spot for stock-price-appreciation potential! Major gold miners are increasingly struggling with declining production, they cant find or buy enough new gold to offset their depletion. And the stock-price inertia from their large market capitalizations is hard to overcome. The mid-tiers can and are boosting their gold output, fueling big growth in operating cash flows and profitability. With much-lower market caps, capital inflows drive their stock prices higher much faster. Every quarter I dive into the latest results from the top 34 GDXJ components. Thats simply an arbitrary number that fits neatly into the tables below, but a commanding sample. These companies represented 82.1% of GDXJs total weighting this week, even though it contained a whopping 71 stocks! 6 of the top 34 were majors mining 250k+ ounces, 17 mid-tiers at 75k to 250k, 8 juniors under 75k, and 3 explorers with zero. These majors accounted for 19.8% of GDXJs total weighting, and really have no place in a Junior Gold Miners ETF when they could instead be exclusively in GDX. These mid-tiers weighed in at 44.3% of GDXJ. The juniors among the top 34 represented just 14.8% of GDXJs total. But only 4 of them at a mere 6.1% of GDXJ are true junior golds, meaning they derive over half their revenues from actually mining gold. The rest are primary silver miners, gold-royalty companies, and gold streamers. GDXJ is overwhelmingly a mid-tier gold miners ETF, with sizable small-major exposure. Investors and speculators need to realize it is not a junior-gold investment vehicle as advertised. GDXJ also has major overlap with GDX. Fully 28 of these top 34 GDXJ gold miners are included in GDX too, with 23 of them also among GDXs top 34 stocks. The GDXJ top 34 accounting for 82.1% of its total weighting also represent 36.6% of GDXs own total weighting! The GDXJ top 34 clustered between the 11th- to 40th-highest weightings in GDX. Thus over 4/5ths of GDXJ is made up by almost 3/8ths of GDX. But GDXJ is far superior, excluding the large gold majors struggling with production growth. GDXJ gives much-higher weightings to better mid-tier miners. The average Q418 gold production among GDXJs top 34 was 164k ounces, just over half as big as the GDX top 34s 302k average. Despite these two ETFs extensive common holdings, GDXJ is increasingly outperforming GDX. GDXJ holds many of the worlds best mid-tier gold miners with big upside potential as golds own bull gradually powers higher. Thus it is important to analyze GDXJ miners latest results. So after every quarterly earnings season I wade through all available operational and financial results and dump key data into a big spreadsheet for analysis. Some highlights make it into these tables. Any blank fields mean a company hadnt reported that data as of this Wednesday. The first couple columns show each GDXJ components symbol and weighting within this ETF as of this week. Not all are US symbols. 19 of the GDXJ top 34 primarily trade in the US, 5 in Australia, 8 in Canada, and 2 in the UK. So some symbols are listings from companies main foreign stock exchanges. Thats followed by each gold miners Q418 production in ounces, which is mostly in pure-gold terms excluding byproducts often found in gold ore like silver and base metals. Then productions absolute year-over-year change from Q417 is shown. Next comes gold miners most-important fundamental data for investors, cash costs and all-in sustaining costs per ounce mined. The latter directly drives profitability which ultimately determines stock prices. These key costs are also followed by YoY changes. Last but not least the annual changes are shown in operating cash flows generated, hard GAAP earnings, revenues, and cash on hand with a couple exceptions. Percentage changes arent relevant or meaningful if data shifted from positive to negative or vice versa, or if derived from two negative numbers. So in those cases I included raw underlying data rather than weird or misleading percentage changes. In cases where foreign GDXJ components only released half-year data, I used that and split it in half where appropriate. That offers a decent approximation of Q418 results. Symbols highlighted in light blue newly climbed into the ranks of GDXJs top 34 over this past year. And symbols highlighted in yellow show the rare GDXJ-top-34 components that arent also in GDX. If both conditions are true blue-yellow checkerboarding is used. Finally production bold-faced in blue shows the handful of junior gold miners in GDXJs higher ranks, under 75k ounces quarterly with over half of sales from gold. This whole dataset together compared with past quarters offers a fantastic high-level read on how mid-tier gold miners as an industry are faring fundamentally. While Q418 proved challenging with lower average gold prices, the GDXJ miners generally weathered it well. These elite mid-tier miners did much better last quarter than the major-dominated GDX elites. Their profits and stock prices are ready to soar with higher gold. GDXJs managers have continued to fine-tune its ranks over this past year, making some good changes. For some inexplicable reason, one of the worlds largest gold miners AngloGold Ashanti was one of this ETFs top holdings as discussed last quarter. AU was finally kicked out and replaced with a smaller major gold miner Kinross Gold and a mid-tier Buenaventura. Together they now account for 11.7% of GDXJs weighting. Reshuffling at the top makes year-over-year changes less comparable, particularly given KGCs larger size relative to most of the rest of the GDXJ top 34. Neither it nor BVN were included in GDXJ a year ago, and are new additions since Q318 results. Both are sizable GDX components, probably added to GDXJ to keep the weightings down in its smaller Canadian components. 4 other stocks climbed into the top 34. Torex, Alacer, Hochschild, and Seabridge were already in GDXJ a year ago but weighted below the top 34. GDXJ is largely-but-not-entirely market-cap weighted, so its normal for components to rise into or fall out of the top 34 as their stock prices move higher or lower. All the following comparisons between Q418 and Q417 are across the two slightly-different GDXJ-top-34 sets, not the exact companies shown above. Production has always been the lifeblood of the gold-mining industry. Gold miners have no control over prevailing gold prices, their product sells for whatever the markets offer. Thus growing production is the only manageable way to boost revenues, leading to amplified gains in operating cash flows and profits. Higher production generates more capital to invest in expanding existing mines and building or buying new ones. Gold-stock investors have long prized production growth above everything else, as it is inexorably linked to company growth and thus stock-price-appreciation potential. The top 34 GDXJ gold miners excelled in that department, growing their aggregate output by a big 12.8% YoY to 5.1m ounces! Thats really impressive, trouncing both the major gold miners dominating GDX as well as the entire worlds gold-mining industry. Last week I analyzed the GDX majors Q418 results, which revealed they are still struggling with serious challenges. The GDX top 34s total production fell 3.9% YoY when adjusted for a mega-merger. That was worse than total global output slumping 0.9% YoY according to the World Gold Council. So GDXJs mostly-mid-tier gold miners really stand out. They are bucking the industry trend with strong production growth. Again GDXJs top 34 components start at the 11th-highest weighting within GDX. Most of the production problems occurred above that threshold, in GDXs top 10 components which include the worlds largest major gold miners. Their immense average production of 630k ounces in Q418 was nearly 4x the 164k average among GDXJs top 34! Those GDX top 10 also accounted for a dominant 59.1% of its total weighting. GDXJ excluding these depleting giants and reallocating their heavy weightings across smaller majors and mid-tier gold miners makes all the difference. The big majors waning production and large market caps act as an anchor retarding GDXs upside. GDXJ doesnt share that burden, which helped its top 34 show such strong production growth. Theres no reason to own the large majors with their serious challenges. Also interesting on the GDXJ production front last quarter was silver. This Junior Gold Miners ETF also includes major silver miners, both primary and byproduct ones. The GDXJ top 34s silver mined rocketed 53.8% higher YoY to 31.2m ounces! For comparison the GDX top 34s total reported output of 28.8m ounces actually slumped 1.5% YoY. The smaller GDXJ mid-tiers are way better than majors at growing their outputs. The mid-tier gold miners continue to prove all-important production growth is doable off smaller bases. With a handful of mines or less to operate, mid-tiers can focus on expanding them or building a new mine to boost their output beyond depletion. But the majors are increasingly failing to do this with the super-high production bases they operate at. As long as the majors are struggling, its prudent to avoid them. GDXJ investors would be better served if this ETF contained no major gold miners producing over 250k ounces a quarter on average. They still command nearly 1/5th of its weighting, which could be far better reallocated in mid-tiers and juniors. If VanEck kept the major gold miners in GDX where they should be, it could give GDXJ much-better upside potential. That would make this ETF more popular and successful. In gold mining, production and costs are generally inversely related. Gold-mining costs are largely fixed quarter after quarter, with actual mining requiring about the same levels of infrastructure, equipment, and employees. So the higher production, the more ounces to spread minings big fixed costs across. Thus with sharply-higher YoY production in Q418, the GDXJ top 34 shouldve seen proportionally-lower costs. There are two major ways to measure gold-mining costs, classic cash costs per ounce and the superior all-in sustaining costs per ounce. Both are useful metrics. Cash costs are the acid test of gold-miner survivability in lower-gold-price environments, revealing the worst-case gold levels necessary to keep the mines running. All-in sustaining costs show where gold needs to trade to maintain current mining tempos indefinitely. Cash costs naturally encompass all cash expenses necessary to produce each ounce of gold, including all direct production costs, mine-level administration, smelting, refining, transport, regulatory, royalty, and tax expenses. In Q418 these top-34-GDXJ-component gold miners that reported cash costs averaged $698 per ounce. That was up a sharp 10.8% YoY, and considerably worse than the GDX top 34s $655 average. Those were the highest GDXJ cash costs seen since at least Q216, when I started this research thread. But even $698 is far lower than prevailing gold prices, showing the mid-tier gold miners face no existential threat. And GDXJs high cash costs last quarter arent righteous anyway, as they were skewed higher by an extreme outlier. One of the new GDXJ companies Buenaventura reported crazy cash costs of $1627 per ounce! Excluding that wild anomaly, the rest of the GDXJ top 34 averaged cash costs of $662 which was right in line with Q318s $663. Theyd be even lower without Sibanye-Stillwater, a troubled South-African major gold miner that saw cash costs soar 30.1% YoY to an ugly $1167. If that too is excluded the overall average falls to $642. So for the most part the mid-tier gold miners cash costs remain really low relative to gold. Way more important than cash costs are the far-superior all-in sustaining costs. They were introduced by the World Gold Council in June 2013 to give investors a much-better understanding of what it really costs to maintain gold mines as ongoing concerns. AISCs include all direct cash costs, but then add on everything else that is necessary to maintain and replenish operations at current gold-production levels. These additional expenses include exploration for new gold to mine to replace depleting deposits, mine-development and construction expenses, remediation, and mine reclamation. They also include the corporate-level administration expenses necessary to oversee gold mines. All-in sustaining costs are the most-important gold-mining cost metric by far for investors, revealing gold miners true operating profitability. The GDXJ top 34 reporting AISCs averaged $932 per ounce in Q418, which was also up a sizable 7.1% YoY. That was also barely the highest seen since at least Q216, contradicting the big production growth these miners achieved. But once again this was heavily skewed by extreme outliers, including both BVN and SBGL. Hecla also reported a stunning 52.3% YoY surge in its gold AISCs to a nosebleed $1582 per ounce! Both BVN and SBGL reported sharply-lower YoY production, helping explain their huge cost surges. HLs is more temporary, as it expects 2019 gold AISCs to average a still-high-but-much-lower $1250. Without these abnormal situations, the rest of the GDXJ top 34 averaged excellent AISCs of just $863 per ounce. That would be down 0.8% YoY, and is close to the GDX majors $837 average also excluding BVN and HL. Yet even at that skewed artificially-high $932 per ounce, the elite GDXJ gold miners have great potential to enjoy surging profits and hence stock prices. Gold was relatively weak last quarter, averaging $1228 which was 3.8% lower YoY. That implied the mid-tier gold miners as an industry were earning $296 per ounce. Thats still a 24% profit margin, proving Q418s major GDXJ lows werent fundamentally righteous. Gold is faring much better in this almost-over Q119, averaging $1303 which is up a big 6.1% quarter-on-quarter. Assuming GDXJ-top-34 AISCs are flat, these elite mid-tier gold miners are earning around $371 per ounce this quarter. That implies enormous 25.3% QoQ profits growth! We wont know for sure until after Q1s earnings season, near mid-May. But the mid-tiers fundamentals shouldve greatly improved. Bigger profits driven by higher gold prices are sure to attract investors back to the still-beaten-down gold-stock sector in a big way. The gold miners will stand out even more with earnings growth expected to be scarce in the general stock markets this year. If gold continues marching higher on balance as it ought to, and GDXJ average AISCs retreat as BVN and HL get anomalous costs under control, GDXJ profits will soar. The GDXJ top 34s hard accounting results in Q418 were mixed, but way better than GDX on all fronts. These elite mid-tier gold miners reported total sales of $7.4b last quarter, up a strong 12.1% YoY. That is right in line with their 12.8% YoY total gold production growth. That huge 53.8% YoY surge in their silver output helped offset the 3.8% YoY decline in average gold prices. The mid-tier gold miners revenues are strong. Compare that to the GDX top 34, which saw sales plunge 10.3% YoY in Q4 due to 3.9%-lower merger-adjusted gold output. Those strong GDXJ-top-34 revenues kept operating-cash-flow generation solid, totaling $2.2b which was down 9.2% YoY. That again crushed the majors in the GDX top 34, which saw OCFs plummet 30.4% YoY. The divergence between how mid-tiers and majors are faring these days is gaping. The elite GDXJ mid-tier gold miners also invested in growing their production, so their collective total cash on hand slid 14.3% YoY to $5.9b. The GDX majors saw a similar 14.6% YoY decline in their cash, yet they certainly didnt spend enough to offset their depleting mines. The only real blemish on the GDXJ top 34s Q4 results came in hard GAAP profits. Their aggregate bottom line collapsed to a $732m loss last quarter! That was far worse than Q417s $26m loss. Much of this was due to big non-cash impairment charges, writedowns of the carrying value of gold mines and deposits due to lower gold prices and forecasts. If gold miners expect lower gold prices going forward, they have to flush the resulting expected economic losses through current-quarter results when those impairments are perceived. That hammered overall results. Honestly the Q418 impairments seemed pretty unnecessary, with average gold prices merely down 3.8% YoY. 2018s full-year average gold price actually rose 0.8% YoY. Major impairments usually happen in years gold plunges sharply, like 2013s brutal 27.9% plummeting. Something like that really changes the economic assumptions underlying gold mines. But gold only slumped 1.6% last year, which is utterly trivial. Some of the bigger impairment charges came from First Majestic Silver and Osisko Gold, which wrote off $168m and $166m. This primary silver miner and gold-royalty company arent even mid-tier gold miners. And the perpetually-troubled South African majors Gold Fields and Sibanye-Stillwater which have long tainted GDXJ reported big half-year losses implying $169m and $98m in Q4. These alone total $601m of losses. That accounted for nearly 5/6ths of the GDXJ top 34s total GAAP losses last quarter. While many of the elite mid-tier gold miners reported small losses, the great majority of the surge in losses came from a handful of stocks. Overall the GDXJ GAAP profits looked relatively decent compared to the majors. GDXs top 34 reported a staggering $6.0b in accounting losses in Q418! The mid-tiers are thrashing the majors. GDXJs mostly-mid-tier component list of great gold miners is really faring well, especially compared to the struggling large gold miners. Investors looking to ride this gold-stock bull should avoid the worlds biggest gold producers and instead deploy their capital in the mid-tier realm. The best gains will be won in individual smaller gold miners with superior fundamentals, plenty of which are included within GDXJ. Despite being the worlds leading gold-stock ETF, GDX needs to be avoided. The major gold miners that dominate its weightings are struggling too much fundamentally, unable to grow their production. Capital will instead flow into the mid-tiers, juniors, and maybe a few smaller majors still able to boost their output and thus earnings going forward. None of this is new, but the major and mid-tier disconnect continues to worsen. Again back in essentially the first half of 2016, GDXJ skyrocketed 202.5% higher on a 29.9% gold upleg in roughly the same span! While GDX somewhat kept pace then at +151.2%, it is lagging GDXJ more and more as its weightings are more concentrated in stagnant gold mega-miners. The recent big mergers are going to worsen that investor-hostile trend. Investors should buy better individual gold stocks, or GDXJ. One of my core missions at Zeal is relentlessly studying the gold-stock world to uncover the stocks with superior fundamentals and upside potential. The trading books in both our popular weekly and monthly newsletters are currently full of these better gold and silver miners. Mostly added in recent months as gold stocks recovered from deep lows, our unrealized gains are already running as high as 74% this week! If you want to multiply your capital in the markets, you have to stay informed. Our newsletters are a great way, easy to read and affordable. They draw on my vast experience, knowledge, wisdom, and ongoing research to explain whats going on in the markets, why, and how to trade them with specific stocks. As of Q4 weve recommended and realized 1076 newsletter stock trades since 2001, averaging annualized realized gains of +16.1%! Thats nearly double the long-term stock-market average. Subscribe today for just $12 per issue! The bottom line is the mid-tier gold miners are thriving fundamentally. They are still rapidly growing their production while majors suffer sharp output declines. The mid-tiers are holding the line on costs, which portends strong leveraged profits growth as gold continues grinding higher on balance. The performance gap between the smaller mid-tier and junior gold miners and larger major ones is big and still mounting. Investors and speculators really need to pay attention to this intra-sector disconnect. Gold and its miners stocks should power far higher in coming years as the lofty general stock markets roll over. But the vast majority of the gains will be concentrated in growing gold miners, not shrinking ones. This means the mid-tier and junior gold miners will far outperform the majors. The smaller miners have superior fundamentals. Adam Hamilton, CPA So how can you profit from this information? 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The flamboyant Beijing-friendly mayor of Kaohsiung, Taiwan has fired back at critics over a rare meeting with mainland Chinas top representative in Hong Kong, stressing he was only promoting trade and not selling out his people. Han Kuo-yu, a rising star in the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party, was responding to a call by Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council and politicians back home to clarify intentions over a Friday dinner meeting with Wang Zhimin, director of Beijings liaison office. Im bringing along my wife, my deputy mayor and my team to Hong Kong, under the watch of 10 city councillors. Am I really going to sell out Kaohsiung? Im only here to sell fruits and fish products, Han told reporters in Macau at noon on Saturday. He met Fu Ziying, director of Beijings liaison office in the casino hub. The noise and scepticism are simply boring and pointless ... Kaohsiung must open its mind and embrace people from all walks, including every business opportunity ... So we welcome all visits and there is no dark side to this, Han said. The noise and scepticism are simply boring and pointless Han Kuo-yu, Kaohsiung mayor Also on Saturday, Taiwans president Tsai Ing-wen, who is visiting the West Pacific island country of Palau, said China might be using Hans visit to set the stage for introducing the one country, two systems policy in Taiwan, according to the Central News Agency. The liaison office is an important department for China to implement one country, two systems in Hong Kong, Tsai said. Its difficult to rule out the possibility that [China was trying to] create an atmosphere for the policy by arranging for Han to visit the office. I dont know if he is aware of that, Tsai added. Han is the first Taiwanese mayor to meet Beijings top man in the city and the first mayor to meet Hong Kongs leader since 2014. The dinner event on Friday, hosted by the liaison office, was part of Hans high-profile visit to Hong Kong and three other Chinese cities Macau, Shenzhen and Xiamen to promote trade. Story continues Four pro-Beijing groups in Hong Kong and six mainland companies had earlier agreed to import a total of HK$690 million (US$87.9 million) worth of fruit, fish and other agricultural products from Kaohsiung in the next one to four years. Kaohsiung also signed 27 agreements with a total of 49 Macau companies and bodies involving HK$180 million. Hans trip coincided with wide speculation that the KMT would summon him to join the primary for Taiwans presidential race in 2020. On Friday afternoon, Sino Land tycoon Robert Ng Chee Siong had hosted a separate reception for Han, fuelling belief the latter was on his path to presidency. You all have to encourage him to step up. Please encourage him! Ng said. He also expressed Sinos willingness to invest in Kaohsiung. Han on Saturday reiterated that for the time being, he was focused on promoting trade and making friends across the straits. But liberal politicians from Hong Kong and Taiwan said the liaison office dinner, which was not officially announced, went beyond just trade. Taiwanese lawmakers Su Chiao-hui and Hsu Chih-chieh of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), as well as pro-independence New Power Party said Han had undermined the sovereignty of the self-ruled island. They called for a detailed account of his exchange with Wang. Chiu Chui-cheng, deputy minister of Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council pointed out that Hans meeting with the liaison office was not previously publicised, urging the mayor to clarify the situation and allay doubts. DPP secretary general Luo Wen-jia also criticised Han for knowingly meeting the liaison office, even though it had been accused of effectively giving orders in Hong Kong and undermining the citys freedom. Today there are talks within KMT to summon Han [to join the primary]. Outside, the Communist Partys liaison office is summoning Han the two parties are now joining hands, Luo said in a Facebook post. No wonder Hong Kong critics said [his trade deals] are deals with the devil. Han had previously dodged a question on his take on Xis proposal. Meanwhile, Hong Kongs pro-democracy lawmakers Eddie Chu Hoi-dick, Au Nok-hin, Leung Yiu-chung, and activist group Demosisto called Hans meeting with Wang inappropriate. Trade between Kaohsiung and Hong Kong certainly falls within the remit of the Hong Kong government, and that has nothing to do with the liaison office, they said in a statement. Trade between Kaohsiung and Hong Kong certainly falls within the remit of the Hong Kong government, and that has nothing to do with the liaison office Hong Kong pro-democracy lawmakers Out of respect for Hong Kongs one country, systems, it is unheard of for official guests to meet ... the director of the liaison office. Ousted lawmaker Nathan Law Kwun-chung said the meeting conveyed Beijings blessing for Han instead of being about trade promotion. Speaking before departing Hong Kong to meet Macau Chief Executive Fernando Chui Sai-on, Han said he had a warm and great dinner with Wang, and mainly discussed increased exchange between the two cities. We talked about everything past engagements, the bitterness and sweetness of life, our wives and children, as well as the future of Hong Kong and Kaohsiung. He was quick to clarify that he did not broach the sensitive issue of Taiwans future to Wang. Asked to respond to criticisms by Hong Kong politicians, he appeared reluctant. As the mayor of Kaohsiung, I should not comment too much on Hong Kongs internal matters ... Also we should be clear what we are here for. The DPP to which Taiwan president Tsai belongs and the KMT have previously pushed back against Chinese president Xi Jinpings proposal to adopt the one country, two systems model and start talks of unification. Han, known for his colourful and populist speeches, was earlier criticised on his Hong Kong trip for mocking Bhutans people as silly in a casual remark while comparing the Taiwanese and Bhutanese. In Macau, he also incorrectly said there was no direct flight between Macau and Kaohsiung, something he looked forward to discussing with Fernando Chui, when in fact, there are 32 flights between the two cities weekly. I only slept four to five hours a day and so I wasnt speaking clearly do forgive me, he said of the faux pas and factual error. Additional reporting by Su Xinqi This article Selling out my people? Im only here to sell fruits: Beijing-friendly Taiwanese mayor Han Kuo-yu fires back at critics over rare visit first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2019. Thailand's king issued a cryptic statement late Saturday hours before polls open for the country's first general election since a 2014 coup, quoting his late father's advice to support "good" leaders to prevent "chaos". King Maha Vajiralongkorn's last-minute intervention comes less than two months after another royal command torpedoed the candidacy of his elder sister Princess Ubolratana for prime minister of a party linked to billionaire ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The king called the move to bring his sister into politics "highly inappropriate", as the monarchy is ostensibly above the political fray. The party was later dissolved by a court, a fresh chapter of intrigue in the politically combustible country. Thaksin, a divisive telecoms tycoon, was ousted in a 2006 coup and went into self-exile two years later. But his affiliated parties have won every Thai election since, drawing on huge loyalty from rural and urban poor. On Friday Ubolratana was guest of honour at the glitzy Hong Kong wedding of Thaksin's daughter -- with photos of the tycoon and the princess hugging and smiling going viral. The unscheduled palace statement featured remarks by late king Bhumibol Adulyadej from 1969 calling for people to "support good people to govern the society and control the bad people" to prevent them from "creating chaos." Vajiralongkorn urged the public to "remember and be aware" of the remarks of his father, who died in 2016. The message comes a few hours before Thais are set to vote in a national election for the first time since the 2014 coup -- the twelfth by the army in less than a century. The king called on the general public, the military, police and civil service to heed the words of his father. "His majesty is concerned about the stability of the nation, the feelings and happiness of the people," the statement added. Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. But the palace holds unassailable powers and is shielded from criticism by a harsh royal defamation law. The turbulent kingdom remains bitterly divided despite the junta's pledge to rescue the country from a decade-long treadmill of political instability, protests and coups. Sunday's election pits a royalist junta and its allies against the Shinawatras' polished electoral machine and an unpredictable wave of millennial voters, whose political loyalties are unknown. Shortly after the king's statement the top trending hashtag on Thai Twitter was #oldenoughtochooseourselves. -- Numbers game -- The junta-party, which is proposing army chief turned premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha for civilian prime minister after the polls, is under intense pressure to avoid humiliation on Sunday in what is effectively a referendum on its popularity. Prayut toppled the civilian government of Thaksin's younger sister Yingluck in 2014. The army and its allies in the Bangkok elite loathe the Shinawatras, accusing the clan of toxifying Thai politics and society with money, nepotism and graft. The Shinawatras say they have simply recognised the economic and democratic aspirations of the majority of Thais, reflected in their landslide election wins. This time the ruling junta has written new election rules aimed at curbing the number of seats big parties -- specifically the Shinawatras' main election vehicle Pheu Thai -- can win. Pheu Thai is expected to again sweep up the north and northeastern heartlands as it seeks to head an anti-junta coalition. A 250-member junta-appointed senate and a new proportional system were meant to have manoeuvered Prayut and the junta party -- Phalang Pracharat -- into pole position. With senate votes in hand, the party needs just 126 lower house seats to secure a parliamentary majority. It can cross that line comfortably with alliances with smaller parties. Pheu Thai, however, needs 376 lower house seats to command an overall majority -- near impossible without complex tie-ups across pro-democracy factions. "A deadlock is very likely," political scientist Napisa Waitoolkiat of Naresuan University told AFP. New demographic forces have complicated the normal split between pro-and anti-Shinawatra factions. Seven million millennials are eligible to vote for the first time. Voter turnout is expected to be high among a public weary of junta rule. burs-joe/apj/rma 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 MARCH 21 was World Poetry Day. March 22 was World Water Day. This month El Nino strikes the country. Let us read two poems from the late Benjaline Hernandez, Atenean, poet, officer of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines. Famine Saw God in a hallway and he was dying. He told me to raise my fist so I could continue living. (written in 2000) Heres another poem which I cant seem to locate from the old Ateneos literary folio, so this is a bit of a paraphrase. The Gods of Life created water so that people can live. But the little gods placed water in a bottle, and sold it in the market. (written circa 1999) These poems may have been written nearly 20 years ago but it still captures the times we are facing. Our farmers are facing a double whammy of El Nino and zero rice tarriffication, they are hit both high and dry. Residents in Manila face a fake water crisis to pave the entry of a China-funded Kaliwa dam project that will damn the public to nearly a half-billion peso debt. We live in a time where words have become weapons by the powers that be that divide us, pierce us and throw us into the dark. Let poetry then be the unifier, the healer, the light that shines on us about our humanity and our capacity to build. Let the words by the youth like Beng in her prime who questioned authority, and also by the elders who continue to rage on, we have poetry to capture such spirit. In this April 8, 1998, file photo, a worker drives a cart through a tunnel inside the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant No. 2, 150 feet below the surface near Carlsbad, N.M. Twenty years and more than 12,330 shipments later, tons of Cold War-era radioactive waste from decades of bomb-making and research have been stashed in the salt caverns that make up the underground facility and not without issues. (AP Photo/Eric Draper, File) In a remote stretch of New Mexico desert, the U.S. government put in motion an experiment aimed at proving to the world that radioactive waste could be safely disposed of deep underground, rendering it less of a threat to the environment. Twenty years and more than 12,380 shipments later, tons of Cold War-era waste from decades of bomb-making and nuclear research across the U.S. have been stashed in the salt caverns that make up the underground facility . Each week, several shipments of special boxes and barrels packed with lab coats, rubber gloves, tools and debris contaminated with plutonium and other radioactive elements are trucked to the site. But the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant has not been without issues. A 2014 radiation leak forced an expensive, nearly three-year closure, delayed the federal government's cleanup program and prompted policy changes at national laboratories and defense-related sites across the U.S. More recently, the U.S. Department of Energy said it would investigate reports that workers may have been exposed last year to hazardous chemicals. Still, supporters consider the repository a success, saying it provides a viable option for dealing with a multibillion-dollar mess that stretches from a decommissioned nuclear weapons production site in Washington state to one of the nation's top nuclear research labs, in Idaho, and locations as far east as South Carolina. If it weren't for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, many containers of plutonium-contaminated waste would be outside, exposed to the weather and susceptible to natural disasters, said J.R. Stroble, head of business operations at the Department of Energy's Carlsbad Field Office, which oversees the contractor that operates the repository. "The whole purpose of WIPP is to isolate this long-lived radioactive, hazardous waste from the accessible environment, from people and the things people need in order to live life on Earth," he told The Associated Press. In this March 5, 2019 photo, Don Hancock with the Southwest Research and Information Center holds up a promotional flyswatter advertising the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant as the solution to nuclear pollution while in his office in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Hancock is among the watchdogs who have been monitoring the federal nuclear waste repository for decades. (AP Photo/Susan Montoya Bryan) Stroble and others in the communities surrounding the repository are steadfast in their conviction that the facility is a success. They point to 22 sites around the nation that have been cleaned up as a result of having somewhere to put the wasteincluding Rocky Flats, a former nuclear weapons plant outside Denver that had a history of leaks, spills and other violations. For critics, that success is checkered at best since the repository is far from fulfilling its mission. "It's 80 percent through its lifetime, and it has disposed of less than 40 percent of the waste and has cost more than twice as much as it was supposed to," said Don Hancock with the watchdog group Southwest Research and Information Center. "How great of a success is that?" Officials initially thought the facility would operate for about 25 years. Rather than wrapping up in the next few years, managers have bumped the timeline to 2050. The repository was carved out of an ancient salt formation about a half-mile (0.8 kilometer) below the surface, with the idea that the shifting salt would eventually entomb the radioactive waste. It was the National Academy of Sciences in the 1950s that first recommended disposing of atomic waste in deep geologic formations. Scientists began taking a hard look at the New Mexico site about two decades later. The scientists had to convince themselves and then federal regulators that it was safe. One of their tasks was determining that the ancient seawater trapped between the salt crystals and bound up in thin bands of clay within the salt deposit would pose no problems thousands of years later. This March 6, 2014, file photo shows the idled Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, the nation's only underground nuclear waste repository, near Carlsbad, N.M. Shipments of waste to the repository resumed in April 2017 for the first time since a 2014 radiation release contaminated part of the facility. (AP Photo/Susan Montoya Bryan, File) "It was exciting to be working on what was then going to be the world's first deep-geologic repository for that class of waste," said Peter Swift, a senior scientist at Sandia National Laboratories. "Nothing that radioactive had been put that deep underground before. And that's still true 20 years later." While the real test will be what happens generations from now, Swift is confident in the science behind the project. But the wild card in whether the repository is ultimately deemed a success will be the human factor. After all, missteps by management were blamed for the 2014 radiation release. With some areas permanently sealed off due to contamination, more mining will have to be done to expand capacity. The federal government also is spending more than a half-billion dollars to install a new ventilation system, sink more shafts and make other upgrades aimed at returning to "normal business." Hancock and some former elected leaders involved in early discussions about the facility worry about the subterranean landfill becoming a dumping ground for high-level waste or commercial nuclear waste. But it would take an act of Congress to expand the repository's mission, and getting consent from New Mexico's delegates would be a tall order since the federal government still has no long-term plan for dealing with such waste. Nevada's proposed Yucca Mountain project is mothballed, and no other permanent disposal proposals are on the table. Toney Anaya, who served as New Mexico governor in the 1980s, remembers the heated debates about bringing more radioactive waste to the state. He said there were concerns about safety, but the promise of jobs was attractive. Some also argued New Mexico had a moral obligation given its legacy of uranium mining and its role in the development of the atomic bomb. The first load of nuclear waste arrives in this March 26, 1999 file photo, at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) site in Carlsbad, N.M., from Los Alamos National Laboratory. Twenty years and more than 12,380 shipments later, tons of Cold War-era waste from decades of bomb-making and nuclear research across the U.S. have been stashed in the salt caverns that make up the underground facility. (AP Photo/Thomas Herbert) Another former governor, Bill Richardson, was on both sides of the tug of warfirst as a young Democratic congressman who wanted to impose environmental standards and keep 18-wheelers loaded with waste from passing through the heart of Santa Fe. Then, he became U.S. energy secretary during the Clinton administration and pressured the state to clear the way for the repository to open. "For New Mexico, we've done our share of storing waste, and we've done it safely and effectively," Richardson said. "It's provided jobs, but I just think the future of the state is not nuclear." Southeastern New Mexico's ties to nuclear run deep and will continue for at least the next 30 years under the plans being charted now. Robust state regulation will be key in ensuring responsible management going forward, said Hancock, with the watchdog group. The problem, he said, is that besides the Cold War-era waste that has yet to be dealt with, the federal government and nuclear power plants keep generating more. "We need to decide what our capacities are actually going to behow much nuclear power waste are we going to create, how much nuclear weapons waste are we going to createso that we can then put our arms around the problem," Hancock said. Explore further Operations resume at underground US nuclear waste repository 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. A Boeing 737 MAX 8 is pictured on the exterior of the Boeing Renton Factory in Renton, Washington, as the image of the manufacturer comes under pressure after fatal crashes A fix to the anti-stall system suspected in the crash of a Boeing 737 MAX 8 jet that killed 189 people in Indonesia is ready, industry sources said Saturday, as the company tries to avoid a lengthy grounding of its planes. Boeing was due to present the patch to officials and pilots of US airlinesAmerican, Southwest and Unitedin Renton, Washington state, where the plane is assembled, other sources said. "Boeing has already finalized the necessary corrective measures for the MAX," an aviation sector source told AFP on condition of anonymity. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will receive the patch "early next week," a government source added. Asked how long the certification process could take after the patch is in the hands of the authorities, this source said that nothing has been decided yet. The FAA declined to comment. The Lion Air crash in Indonesia last October and another accident this month involving an Ethiopian Airlines jet, which killed 346 people between them, have raised major concerns about the safety certification of the 737 MAX 8 model. The Ethiopian Airlines crash on March 10 led to the global grounding of 737 MAX planes. Although it will take months to determine the exact cause of both crashes, investigators in the Lion case have honed in on the MCAS automated anti-stalling system designed to point the nose of the plane downward if it is in danger of stalling, or losing lift. American Airlines and Southwest pilots were set to test simulators with the updates on Saturday, according to the sources. Boeing neither confirmed nor denied the information. The FAA had given until April for Boeing to make the necessary changes to the critical anti-stall system, and on March 15 two anonymous industry sources told AFP the upgrade would be ready in about 10 days. A spokesman for United Airlines, whose fleet includes 14 of the 737 MAX 9 planes, confirmed the company's attendance at the training session. Consumer protection Southwest and its SWAPA pilots union "have subject matter experts from our Technical Pilot Team and Training Teams headed to Boeing to review documentation and training associated with the modification to the B737 speed trim system," a spokeswoman said. Portraits of victims from the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX crash are displayed during a mass funeral at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on March 17, 2019 The company is one of the biggest 737 MAX 8 customers, owning 34 of the planes. "We've been working diligently and in close cooperation with the FAA on the software update. We are taking a comprehensive and careful approach to design, develop and test the software that will ultimately lead to certification," a Boeing spokeswoman said. "There will be training provided by Boeing." In addition to the software modification, the industry sources said Boeing has also finalized updates to its flight and pilots' training manuals, as the FAA asked. "We have been engaging with all 737 MAX operators and we are continuing to schedule meetings to share information about our plans for supporting the 737 MAX fleet," the Boeing spokeswoman said, declining to confirm the timeline for the changes. In another modification, the 737 MAX will be outfitted with a warning light for malfunctions in the anti-stall system, an industry source told AFP on Thursday, standardizing a feature previously sold as an optional extra. Neither the Lion Air aircraft nor the Ethiopian Airlines jet had the feature, the industry source said. US and Ethiopian authorities have said this month's crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302 near Addis Ababa bore "similarities" to last year's Lion Air crash. Since the Ethiopian crash, pressure has intensified on Boeing and the image of the companywhich also makes combat aircraft and space equipmenthas been eroded. Share value of the firm, which says it is the world's largest aerospace manufacturer, has dropped 12 percent since the accident, wiping out $28 billion in market capitalization Boeing and the FAA are under investigation by the Transportation Department over how the rollout of the jet was handled, including the anti-stall system. The acting FAA head is among transport officials who are to testify on Wednesday before a congressional subcommittee. Questioning is likely to focus on tight links between Boeing and the regulators, who maintain offices in the airplane factories and delegated a large part of the certification process for the 737 MAX and its anti-stall system to employees of Boeing, sources said. Press reports say that the Department of Justice has also opened a criminal investigation into the 737 MAX's development. Ralph Nader, the veteran US consumer protection advocate who lost a relative in the Ethiopia crash, called Friday for an organization to defend passengers' rights. 2019 AFP Tens of thousands of demonstrators rallied in Germany on Saturday to protest against an imminent EU copyright reform Tens of thousands of demonstrators rallied in Germany on Saturday to protest against an imminent EU copyright reform. Crowds protested in Berlin, Munich and other cities under the slogan "Save the Internet". They called on the European Parliament to reject the reform in a vote scheduled for Tuesday. The overhaul of EU online copyright law includes proposals to oblige YouTube and other platforms to remove illegal content using automatic filters. It also aims to make internet companies pay more to news organisations for reproducing or linking to their content. News organisations, including AFP, have pushed for that move. They argue that companies such as Facebook and Google make billions in revenue from advertising tied to news stories, while publishers suffer. Protesters and internet companies such as Google say the reform will harm freedom of information and small publishers on the internet. Organisers said some 15,000 people rallied in Berlin and 40,000 in Munich. They waved signs reading "Don't break our internet". The German Pirate party has been among the leaders of resistance to the reform. Rallies were also called in other countries including Austria, Poland and Portugal. More than 260 journalists and photographers signed an article published on Friday calling for the reform to be passed. In Poland, more than 200 film-makers called in an open letter for MEPs to pass the measures, in order to regulate use of their intellectual property on video platforms such as YouTube. Explore further Google fights European copyright overhaul 2019 AFP A toxicologist from Roundup weedkiller manufacturer Monsanto denied Friday that she had influenced scientific studies to hide the dangers of the product, in the damages phase of a trial in California. One of the lawyers for the plaintiffa 70-year-old retiree with cancerasked Dr Donna Farmer to explain internal documents from Monsanto made public in 2017. Among other documents, a February 2015 email sent to Farmer by another senior Monsanto scientist refers to the technique of writing scientific articles and then paying recognized scientistspresented as independentto sign them. Farmerwho testified by videorepeatedly denied that she participated in such "ghostwriting" and also responded "no" when asked if Roundup causes cancer. Edwin Hardeman is the man at the center of the case who says his 25-year use of Roundup, the principal ingredient of which is controversial chemical glyphosate, contributed to his non-Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis. The jury in San Francisco is weighing how much Monsanto knew about Roundup's possible risks, if it tried to hide those risks and whether the product's cans should have carried a warning. Jurors then must determine if Monsanto is liable for Hardeman's injuries, and if so, what damages are owed. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer found in 2015 that glyphosate is "probably carcinogenic," though the European Food Safety Authority, the European Chemicals Agency and US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not issued similar judgments. Explore further Monsanto's responsibility at the center of Roundup trial phase 2 2019 AFP Daejong Kim. Credit: Jeremy Agor A UTA mechanical engineer has partnered with a long-time friend from his home nation of South Korea to help find a more effective way for steelmaking companies to inspect and maintain their facilities. Daejong Kim, a University of Texas at Arlington associate professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, was awarded an $80,000 grant in January from South Korea-based POSCOone of the world's largest steelmakersto help fund a one-year feasibility study of intelligent robot systems for inspection and maintenance of steelmaking facilities. Kim, who has worked at UTA since 2008, is collaborating closely with POSCO senior principal researcher Kihwan Kim on the project. The two have been friends for almost 25 years after meeting in graduate school at Seoul National University. Kihwan Kim, who has worked at POSCO for 10 years, has come to UTA and will be on campus for the entire year to help with the feasibility study as a business scholar. "Steelmaking companies like POSCO have such large and complex production facilities, similar to petrochemical plants," Kihwan Kim said. "The companies always seek to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of inspection and maintenance of those facilities. Recent developments of intelligent robot technologies have drawn our attention greatly. Through this project, I hope to find some great ideas of robot applications for steelmaking facilities. Particularly, we will focus on robotics for harsh and hazardous environments such as high temperature, strong radiation and severe dust." Daejong Kim said robots could certainly be valuable to help at steelmaking facilities. "Underneath these plants is a huge maze of electrical wires," Daejong Kim said. "When there is too much of an overload in electrical wires a fire can start, and once that happens it's difficult to control because of the toxic gas undergroundit's highly combustible. Even firefighters have difficulty going in. We want to develop some kind of robotic system that can go in and monitor the temperature, and if the wires get too hot the robot can detect and monitor the location of the high-temperature spot and avoid a fire hazard. The robot should be able to avoid obstacles in front of it, carry infrared cameras, and have arms and legs and multiple sensors to detect the problems. "We're not developing an actual robot now," he continued. "Once the feasibility study is done, the next step is to develop the robot. The study is identifying what kind of functionality is needed with the robot." Daejong Kim moved from South Korea to the United States in 2000 and received his doctorate degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Kihwan Kim believes Dr. Kim is the right person to lead this feasibility study. "I would like to achieve practice results rather than just theoretical ideas, and Professor Kim has lots of experience in industrial application, which has been very successful," Kihwan Kim said. "So, I found that his strength could fit nicely to our goal. I also found out that UTA has strong traditions of engineering, including great people and facilities. It has been a great pleasure to work together with UTA researchers so far." Provided by University of Texas at Arlington 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 Though caviar has long been synonymous with the palette of the wealthy who acquired the luxury food item predominately from Russia and Iran, both things have changed dramatically. Today, the King of Caviar is China, and this Made in China delicacy is flooding the market to the point that prices are plunging, and the delicacy may become commonplace. Whatever you wish to call it, caviar is fish eggs, and fish eggs are being bred in China in huge volumes. Increasingly, fish eggs from wild female sturgeon are being obtained by Chinese fish farms at lower costs. In turn, that has led to an increase in China's total caviar exports by more than five times between 2012 and 2017, according to Wall Street Journal. In a way, China stepped in to fill a void when the world risked the extinction of wild sturgeon in the 1990s. Cheap Chinese labor for new fish farms was the answer. Russia and Iran overfished their beluga sturgeon from the Caspian Sea, rendering them endangered But the picture comes into clearer view when you consider that a single Chinese company, Kaluga Queen, produces a whopping one-third of all the worlds caviar. And its eyeing even greater market share. Kaluga Queen plans to increase output by up to 30 percent annually for at least the next five years. The company is eyeing a sustained double-digit growth rate, with production reaching 100 tons in 2019, as it predicts growing potential in retail in the country. Its also taking advantage of some other upside opportunities, including the sale of sturgeon fillets and skin for leather products. So, Chinese caviar isnt just for export According to China Daily, citing the China Sturgeon Association, the Chinese themselves will consume a projected 100 tons of caviar every year by 2020, accounting for one-third of the world's total. China, then, is taking over the caviar market, buoyed by the cheapest offerings that are still said to be of the highest quality. The Made in China label can be off-putting; and a series of food quality-control scandals involving bleach-soaked meat, antifreeze-laced apple juice, and pine nuts unsuitable for human consumption dont bode well for reputation. Still, despite the low level of trust in Chinese food, American caviar farmers are struggling to compete as China floods the market with black gold. Related: Federal Reserve Downgrades U.S. Growth And Cuts Rate Hikes The U.S. imported $17.8 million worth of caviar in 2018--up from $7.6 million in 2014. About half of the 2018 imports came from China, forcing many American producers to drop their caviar prices by 25 percent to compete. Perhaps it helps that Trump has added Chinese caviar to its 10-percent tariffs on Chinese seafood products, imposed in September 2018. But its not a cure-all. Caviar imported into the U.S. last fall sold at an average $276.24 per kilogram, down 13 percent year-on-year; but at almost half what prices were in 2012. The worldwide market for Caviar is expected to grow at a CAGR of roughly 5.8 percent over the next five years, reaching $500 million in 2024up from $360 million currently, according to a new market forecast. Iran, for its part, plans to keep trying to give China a run for its money. According to Iranian officials in August last year, exports of Iranian black caviar from Mazadaran province had tripled in the first three months of that Iranian calendar year. By Josh Owens for Safehaven.com More Top Reads From Safehaven.com: Education Reporter Mathew Burciaga is a Santa Maria Times reporter who covers education, agriculture and public safety. Prior to joining the Times, Mathew ran a 114-year-old community newspaper in Wyoming. He owns more than 40 pairs of crazy socks from across the globe. " " Not even Washington, D.C. is off limits to rising sea levels. Here a park bench sits in the waters of the Washington Channel during high tide in September 2016. Mark Wilson/Getty Images When a mass of ice the size of Delaware broke off in Antarctica the second week of July 2017, scientists weren't overly concerned that the 1 trillion tons (907 billion metric tons) of ice the largest ever recorded would cause an immediate rise in sea level as it melted. However, they were disturbed that the 2,240-square-mile (5,801-square-kilometer) iceberg was symptomatic of a larger problem: the future collapse of the entire ice shelf known as Larsen C. If it melted right away, scientists said, it would cause the oceans to rise almost a half inch (1.2 centimeters). A collapse of Larsen C is probably decades away, but instances like this are the exact reason why scientists have always kept a close eye on rising sea levels, especially in recent decades. Over the past 100 years, Earth's climate has warmed about 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius). As a result, the water bound up in ice caps, ice fields and glaciers has slowly melted, adding more water to the planet's oceans. In addition, heat causes water to expand, a concept known as thermal expansion. All of this has conspired to raise sea levels around the world nearly .07 inches (2 millimeters) a year. Advertisement " " A mass of ice more than twice the size of Delaware broke off the Larsen C ice shelf in July, spawning one of the largest icebergs on record. ESA via Getty Images But how do you even measure the level of the oceans? You can't just stand on the shoreline with a ruler the levels fluctuate constantly in part due to waves, tides, and planetary and solar orbit. Not to mention there are hills and valleys, mountains and canyons under the oceans as well as on land. And water in deep ocean basins also changes based on climate. To complicate matters even more, some coastal areas, such as New Orleans, Louisiana, and Venice, Italy, are sinking, while others, such as Alaska, are rising. To measure this constant rise and fall of the oceans, scientists use a variety of tools, including tidal gauges, which are placed around the world in harbors, breakwaters and piers. In the United States the job falls to National Water Level Observation Network (NWLON), which has 210 permanent observing systems throughout the United States and its territories. Before computers, the process was pretty rudimentary. Tidal gauges were placed inside tide houses that contained analog data recorders attached to floats. The floats were in "stilling wells" (long metal tubes that minimized waves) beneath the tide houses and the gauges recorded changes in water level. Nailed to one of the pier pilings was essentially a large measuring stick that scientists used to manually observe tidal levels and then compare the readings taken by the floating data recorder. Today the process is much more advanced and uses computerized tidal gauges. Unlike older tide-measuring stations that simply used floats and recorders, most of NWLON's 210 stations use acoustics and electronics placed inside a "sounding tube." Sensors send an audio signal down the tube and measure the time it takes the signal to return. The data is collected every six minutes and timing is controlled by a Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) network. The computerized system is more accurate and it measures, among other things, tidal heights, wind speed, wind direction, barometric pressure, along with air and water temperature. NWLON is continuing to improve the ways it measures sea level. Its newest tools use microwaves to measure the distance from a fixed point above the water to its surface. The agency is in the process of updating most of its monitoring stations with microwave radar water level sensors, which are superior to acoustic sensors. About 40 of the 210 stations use this technology. Scientists also use a variety of satellites orbiting the planet to measure changes in sea level, as well as the reasons causing them to do so. Now That's Cool Nearly 40 percent of the U.S. population lives in coastal counties, while eight of the 10 largest cities in the world are on the coast. While tide stations are a good indication of local sea level changes, worldwide satellite measurements give scientists with the average sea level of the world's oceans. " " Horace Wells was the first person to use nitrous oxide in dentistry. Corbis Horace Wells was a prominent dentist in Hartford, Connecticut, in the 1830s. Like many dentists of his day, Wells was deeply troubled by the agonizing pain his patients suffered during routine procedures like pulling diseased or rotten teeth without anesthesia ouch! In 1844, Wells attended a demonstration part scientific presentation, part sideshow spectacle by showman Gardner Colton on the mysterious power of nitrous oxide [source: Gifford]. Colton had briefly attended medical school where he and his classmates experimented with the exhilarating properties of the colorless, odorless gas [source: Encyclopaedia Britannica]. Advertisement During Colton's show, he administered nitrous oxide to audience volunteers who would burst into fits of giggling befitting a substance commonly known as "laughing gas." At the Hartford show attended by Wells, a delirious volunteer injured his leg on stage, but when Wells quizzed the man about it, he couldn't remember any pain [source: Gifford]. Back at his office the next day, Wells climbed into his own operating chair and asked a colleague, with the help of Colton, to administer nitrous oxide while pulling one of Wells' own troubled teeth. The tooth was yanked and Wells reported feeling not "so much as the prick of a pin" [source: Gifford]. The three men, it seemed, had invented painless dentistry. Wells was thrilled, and after some training from Colton, went on to perform dozens of similar procedures, each with pain-free results. Believing he had discovered a miracle anesthesia, Wells scheduled a public demonstration of his nitrous oxide technique in 1845 for a crowd of Harvard professors and medical students in Boston. The big show didn't go so great. In fact, it was a full-on disaster complete with its own name, the "humbug affair." Apparently, Wells' patient, after being administered the nitrous oxide, cried out when Wells began to extract his tooth. Whether it was a moan of delirium, a joke or real pain, the crowd of medical students taunted Wells with jeers of "Humbug!" and "Swindler!" [source: Gifford]. As we know today, Wells was no swindler. The Hartford dentist never recovered from his failed demonstration he sank into an irrecoverable depression aided by ether and chloroform but his discovery of nitrous oxide as a powerful anesthetic was recognized by the American Dental Association in 1864 [source: Gifford]. Sadly, Wells had taken his own life decades earlier. The story of nitrous oxide is long and complex, and its dual personality miracle pain reliever and dangerous recreational drug makes it just as controversial today as it was in the 1840s. Russian APT groups are targeting European governments for cyber-espionage purposes ahead of the upcoming European elections. According to experts from FireEye, Russia-linked APT28 (aka Fancy Bear, Pawn Storm, Sofacy Group, Sednit, and STRONTIUM) and Sandworm Team (also TeleBots) cyberespionage groups are targeting European governments for cyber-espionage purposes ahead of the upcoming European elections. The activity of the Russia-linked groups is focused on NATO member states. The APT28 group has been active since at least 2007 and it has targeted governments, militaries, and security organizations worldwide. The group was involved also in the string of attacks that targeted 2016 Presidential election. According to a report published by Symantec in October, the group was actively conducting cyber espionage campaigns against government and military organizations in Europe and South America. Starting in 2017 and continuing into 2018, the APT28 group returned to covert intelligence gathering operations in Europe and South America. The espionage activity on NATO member states has increased significantly since mid-2018, and it is ongoing. FireEye revealed that the two Russia-linked APT groups carried out spear-phishing attacks to trick victims into revealing government information and credentials. Experts noticed that the activities of the groups are aligned, but while APT28 was observed using custom malware and zero-day exploits, the Sandworm Team mainly used publicly available hacking tools. The groups could be trying to gain access to the targeted networks in order to gather information that will allow Russia to make more informed political decisions, or it could be gearing up to leak data that would be damaging for a particular political party or candidate ahead of the European elections, explained Benjamin Read, senior manager of cyberespionage analysis at FireEye. The link between this activity and the European elections is yet to be confirmed, but the multiple voting systems and political parties involved in the elections creates a broad attack surface for hackers, FireEyes Read said. According to The Milpitas, California-based firm, the group also targeted media outlets in France and Germany, political opposition groups in Russia, and LGBT organizations with links to Russia. FireEye notified targeted organizations after uncovering the espionage campaigns. Pierluigi Paganini (SecurityAffairs Russian APT group, cyberespionage) Share this... Linkedin Share this: Twitter Print LinkedIn Facebook More Tumblr Pocket Share On SINGAPORE (Mar 23): Although quarterly momentum appears ambivalent as it is consolidating beneath its own moving average, prices are intact. They have established support at the confluence of the 50- and 200-day moving averages which are moving into an increasingly positive stance at 3,217 and 3,186 respectively. The index may well be able to regain its 50-day moving average as short term stochastics is turning up from the bottom of its range. Since medium term indicators are neutral and drifting sideways, short term indicators could keep the STI afloat. However the range is likely to be narrow between 3,190 and 3,286. Support is at the breakout level of 3,190. The break above 3,190 indicates a target for 3,420, and this remains valid for the time being. Only a break below 3,190 indicates the upside is no longer valid. Hong Fok forms potential shooting star The large shadow on top and small body near the low on the candlestick chart suggests that selling pressure is likely to build. This could turn into a potential shooting star. If prices all below 94.5 cents on Monday, Mar 25, an evening star could form. Prices would need to stay above $1.01 to negate this scenario. In addition, ADX at 59, and 21-day RSI at 85.5 are at historic, overstretched highs. Temporary consolidation for QAF Prices are likely to consolidate In the immediate term as quarterly momentum has turned down from a 2-year high. The upmove is likely to resume its uptrend as the chart pattern remains intact. Prices broke out of a resistance and the 200-day moving average at 75 cents accompanied by volume expansion in mid-Mar. The breakout indicates a target of 95-96 cents.Prices had been in a two year downtrend, bottoming late last year at 56 cents. Any retreat should be supported at 75 cents below which the upside is no longer valid. Drivers in Singapore can sign up with FastGo from 1 April and users will be able to start booking rides from 30 April. FastGo, a Vietnamese ride-hailing application will launch in Singapore next month as it looks to expand in South-east Asia. Drivers can register with FastGo from April 1 and customers will be able to book rides from 30 April, the company said in a statement on Wednesday (20 March). Singapore is the third country for FastGo after Vietnam and Myanmar. The company plans to enter Indonesia next via Jakarta, followed by Thailand and the Philippines. FastGo aims to be in the six South-east Asian nations by this year. FastGo, part of technology start-up NextTech Group, began its ride-hailing service in Vietnam in June last year after Uber withdrew from the region. It has nearly 60,000 driver-partners in Vietnam. Six months later it entered Yangon, Myanmar, with Asia Sun Group. Unlike some ride-hailing apps, FastGo will charge its driver-partners a fixed daily subscription fee instead of collecting commission fees. It expects to charge a fee of below US$5 (S$6.80) if a drivers income exceeds US$30 a day, and there will be no fees if the driver makes less than US$30. Despite being a follower, FastGos model brings the best economic benefit to the drivers and customers, said Nguyen Huu Tuat, FastGos founder and chairman. FastGo received Series A investment from VinaCapital Ventures last August. The company is aiming to raise more funds in its Series B investments for expansion. Related stories: Grab vs. Go-Jek: Inside Asias Battle of the Super Apps Gojek extends services in beta phase for users to sign up across Singapore Grab Financial to offer consumer credit, expand lending services By David Shepardson and Cindy Silviana WASHINGTON/JAKARTA (Reuters) - A U.S. lawmaker on Friday urged current or former Boeing Co and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees to come forward with any information about the certification programme for the 737 MAX, which has suffered two fatal crashes in five months. Boeing and the FAA are under global regulatory scrutiny over software and training on the signature aircraft. Boeing risked losing a $6 billion order for the jet on Friday, its first since the world's entire fleet was grounded last week. Indonesian airline Garuda said it plans to scrap its order because some passengers are afraid to board the plane, although industry analysts said the deal was already in doubt. In the United States, the chairman of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Peter DeFazio urged people to use the committee's whistleblower web page. "It is imperative we continue to ensure we have the highest level of safety for the travelling public," DeFazio said. American Airlines pilots were preparing to test Boeing's planned software upgrade for an anti-stall system on MAX simulators this weekend, saying they want their own safety guarantees on the software fix. The 737 MAX was Boeing's fastest selling jet before an Ethiopian Airlines crash near Addis Ababa on March 10, which followed a Lion Air crash in Indonesia on Oct. 29. Ethiopian and French investigators have pointed to "clear similarities" between the two crashes, which killed 346 people, putting pressure on Boeing and U.S. regulators to come up with an adequate fix. No direct link has been proven between the crashes but attention has focussed on whether pilots had the correct information about the "angle of attack" at which the wing slices through the air. Ethiopia has shared limited information with foreign investigators, Reuters reported on Thursday, and an industry source said Boeing had not yet received any black box and voice recorder data. Story continues Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat, on Friday raised concerns in a letter to the FAA about regulations that allow aircraft manufacturers to effectively self-certify the safety of their planes and "left the fox guarding the henhouse." The FAA declined to comment. The U.S. Justice Department opened a separate investigation this week. The FBI has declined comment. Garuda CEO Ari Askhara told Reuters on Friday: "Many passengers told us they were afraid to get on a MAX 8." However, the airline had been reconsidering its order for 49 of the narrowbody jets before the Ethiopian crash, including potentially swapping some for widebody Boeing models. Southeast Asia faces a glut of narrowbody aircraft like the 737 MAX and rival Airbus A320neo at a time of slowing global economic growth and high fuel costs. "They have been re-looking at their fleet plan anyway so this is an opportunity to make some changes that otherwise may be difficult to do," CAPA Centre for Aviation Chief Analyst Brendan Sobie said. Indonesia's Lion Air has also said it might cancel 737 MAX aircraft, though industry sources say it is also struggling to absorb the number of planes on order. RETROFITS Boeing now plans to make compulsory a light to alert pilots when sensor readings of the angle of attack do not match - meaning at least one must be wrong -, according to two officials briefed on the matter. Investigators suspect a faulty angle-of-attack reading led the doomed Lion Air jet's computer to believe it had stalled, prompting its anti-stall system, called MCAS, repeatedly to push the plane's nose down. Norwegian Air played down the significance of the compulsory light, saying that, according to Boeing, it would not have been able to prevent erroneous signals that Lion Air pilots received before their new 737 MAX plane crashed in October. Boeing must be cautious with how it characterizes the safety alert, risking legal claims by saying it could have made a difference in the crash while not wanting to suggest that the retrofit is meaningless, legal experts said. The Lion Air plane did not have the warning light installed, and Ethiopian Airlines did not immediately comment on whether its crashed plane had the alert. But the Ethiopian carrier, whose reputation along with Boeing's is at stake, issued a statement on Friday emphasizing the modernity of its safety and training systems, with more than $500 million invested in infrastructure in the past five years. The Ethiopian crash has set off one of the widest inquiries in aviation history and cast a shadow over the Boeing 737 MAX model intended to be a standard for decades. Boeing did not comment on the plan to make the safety feature standard, but separately said it was moving quickly to make software changes and expected the upgrade to be approved by the FAA in coming weeks. Experts said the change needs regulatory approval and could take weeks or months. Regulators in Europe and Canada have said they will conduct their own reviews of any new systems. Boeing shares have fallen 14 percent since the Ethiopian crash. (Reporting by David Shepardson in WASHINGTON, Cindy Silviana in JAKARTA and Tracy Rucinski in CHICAGO; Additional reporting by Terje Solsvik in Oslo, Jamie Freed in Singapore, Bernadette Christina Munthe in Jakarta, Maggie Fick and Jason Neely in Addis Ababa, Tim Hepher in Paris, and Eric M. Johnson in Seattle; Writing by Sayantani Ghosh, Georgina Prodhan and Tracy Rucinski; Editing by Mark Potter and Grant McCool) Advancing on slowly onto the stage of a Madrid theatre, Marcos Hourmann introduces himself. "I am the first doctor convicted in Spain for practising euthanasia," he informs the public at the tiny Teatro del Barrio in the Lavapies neighbourhood which is known for its leftist roots. "I wish that tonight you judge me," he later adds during the play which premiered on Thursday and which recounts Hourmanns real life experiences. The play, called "Celebrare mi muerte" or "I Will Celebrate My Death", comes as Spain gears up for a snap general election on April 28. Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has promised to make Spain the fourth country in Europe to legalise euthanasia after Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands if he wins a majority in parliament -- a move fiercely opposed by the main opposition conservative Popular Party (PP). "This is a gift that I am being given, to be able to spew" words never before said Hourmann, a 59-year-old Argentine-born doctor who was convicted of killing a terminally ill patient without trial. During the 75-minute play he recounts how in March 2005 he was the duty doctor at a hospital in Tarragona in northeastern Spain when an 82-year-old woman named Carmen who had colon cancer and multiple other ailments arrived. Hourmann tells the audience that the woman told him twice that she wanted to die but he first did what was expected of him -- he tried to save her life. When there was no more hope legally sedated her to ease her pain. But a nurse later woke him up "because Carmen continued to choke. Her daughter told me: 'I can't see her like that'," he adds during the play. Hourmann then gave Carmen with a fatal dose of potassium chloride. "If I could no longer help her live, isn't it my duty as a doctor to help her die?," Hourmann asks the audience. - 'Hypocrisies' - Just two weeks before he was set to go on trial in 2009, public prosecutors proposed a plea deal which Hourmann accepted. Instead of facing a possible ten year sentence for homicide, he was convicted of the lesser charge of involuntary manslaughter and handed a one year suspended sentence, meaning he did not spend any time behind bars. Hourmann moved to Britain where he worked as a doctor but in 2010 British tabloid The Sun launched a campaign against him, dubbing him a "killer doctor" and he became unemployed. A voice off stage asks Hourmann during the play why he registered Carmen's cause of death as being by lethal injection, which is what led to him being charged. "If I did not write it, it would be going against my ideas," he responds, adding he rejects "hypocrisies". - 'End pain' - The play is careful to include the arguments of experts and lawmakers who are "totally opposed to euthanasia," its director, Alberto San Juan, said. A doctor argues in one scene that medical ethics allow physicians to "end pain" but prohibit "ending a patient's life". Euthanasia has long grabbed public attention in Spain, which has the world's second-highest life expectancy. Spanish-Chilean director Alejandro Amenabar won the Oscar for best foreign language film in 2005 for "The Sea Inside", based on the real story of a paraplegic Spanish fisherman's 29-year campaign to win the right to end his own life with assisted suicide. Fully 84 percent of Spaniards back euthanasia for terminally ill patients who conserve their mental faculties, according to a survey published last year in daily newspaper La Vanguardia. Spain's ruling Socialists in June presented a draft law on legalising euthanasia which was backed by far-left party Podemos but the PP and centre-right Ciudadanos blocked it in a parliamentary committee in October. "The Socialist party is expert in creating inexistant problems," PP leader Pablo Casado at the time, adding the state should not intervene in people's "conscience". Dubai has projected the image of New Zealand premier Jacinda Ardern onto its iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest skyscraper, in thanks for her response to last week's mosque shootings. Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum praised Ardern's "support to the Muslim community" after a white supremacist gunman attacked two mosques on March 15, killing 50 people. "Thank you PM @jacindaardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world," he wrote on Twitter. A photo from Dubai's Public Diplomacy Office showed Burj Khalifa lit up with a picture of Ardern in a hijab, warmly embracing a Muslim affected by the tragedy, under the word "peace" in Arabic and English. Ardern has been widely praised for her handling of the tragedy, meeting victims' families and moving quickly to tighten gun laws while calling for global efforts against extremism online. Relatives and supporters of Libya's Kadhafi-era intelligence chief, jailed for his alleged role in a bloody crackdown during the country's 2011 uprising, protested in Tripoli on Saturday to demand his release. Abdullah al-Senussi, a brother-in-law of longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi, was sentenced to death in 2015 over the part he allegedly played in the regime's response to a NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled and killed Kadhafi. Eight others close to Kadhafi, including the Libyan leader's son, Seif al-Islam, also received death sentences following a trial condemned by the United Nations as "seriously" flawed. Several dozen relatives and members of Senussi's tribe, the Magerha, gathered in a central Tripoli square to demand he be freed over health concerns. "The law and medical reports support our legitimate demand," said one protester, Mohamad Amer. Officials have not released specific details on his alleged health problems. In a statement, the Magerha said his liberation would "contribute to and consolidate national reconciliation" in a country torn apart by inter-communal conflicts since Kadhafi's fall. The unusual protest comes just over a month after the release on health grounds of Abuzeid Dorda, Kadhafi's head of foreign intelligence who was sentenced at the same time as Senussi. The protesters held up photos of Senussi behind bars and placards reading "Freedom to prisoners. Yes to national reconciliation". Senussi was extradited in September 2012 by Mauritania, where he had fled after Kadhafi's fall. Like the dictator's son, he had also been the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for suspected war crimes during the 2011 uprising. But in an unusual move, in 2013 the court gave Libyan authorities the green light to put him on trial. He has since been detained in the capital, along with some 40 other senior Kadhafi-era officials including the dictator's last prime minister Baghdadi al-Mahmoudi. Seif al-Islam, Kadhafi's son, was captured and imprisoned by an armed group in the northwestern city of Zintan and sentenced by a Tripoli court in absentia. The group announced his release in 2017 but it was never confirmed and his fate remains unknown. President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday accused the United States of using frozen Venezuelan funds to bankroll mercenaries to assassinate him in a "plot" he said was directed by opposition leader Juan Guaido. "We have dismantled a plan organized personally by the diabolical puppet to kill me," Maduro told thousands of supporters in Caracas, referring to Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries. He alleged that Colombia, Venezuela's US-aligned neighbor, was also involved, and said that an unidentified Colombian paramilitary chief had been captured in the country "and is giving testimony." Maduro's government gave details of the alleged plot on state television, with Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez saying "hitmen" from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras had been recruited "using big sums of money" and sent to Colombia ahead of missions into Venezuela to carry out "targeted assassinations" and "sabotage." Rodriguez accused Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, of receiving money from the United States and being a key organizer of the alleged operation. Marrero, a 49-year-old lawyer, was arrested on Thursday in his Caracas home, triggering an outcry and demands he be immediately released by the US, the European Union and major Latin American countries that recognize Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. He yelled out to a neighbor, an opposition lawmaker, that the SEBIN intelligence officers arresting him had planted two assault rifles and a grenade in his home. Hours later, Maduro's government showed pictures of weapons it said it found and alleged Marrero was part of a "terrorist cell." - US ratchets up sanctions - Rodriguez played recordings he said were from WhatsApp conversations between Marrero and Guaido in which he said they discussed using Venezuelan funds blocked by US sanctions to finance armed groups with the support of Colombian President Ivan Duque. The accusations were repeated shortly afterwards by Maduro as he addressed a crowd of thousands of supporters in the capital. According to his government, the United States has seized $30 billion is Venezuelan assets, including money in bank accounts. Rodriguez alleged funds in accounts in Bank of America and Banesco Panama were being used in the plot. Guaido, the head of the opposition-run assembly, has asked the international community to keep up its pressure on Maduro's government. The United States has ratcheted up successive rounds of sanctions on Venezuela, suspending visas for 300 Venezuelans deemed close to the regime and making it difficult for the state-run oil company PDVSA to operate or secure credit on the markets. On April 28, the sanctions will jump up another level with an embargo on crude exports. US President Donald Trump's administration has repeatedly warned Maduro to not arrest or intimidate Guaido or his aides, or else face unspecified consequences. Trump has reiterated that "all options" -- implicitly including military action -- are on the table for dealing with Venezuela. Visiting Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has pledged a tourism boost and gifted a coast guard vessel to the remote Pacific microstate of Palau, as she works to check a push for regional influence by rival China. Tsai arrived in Palau on Thursday to kick off her second official visit to the Pacific, amid growing concerns over Beijing's attempt to lure away Taipei's few remaining diplomatic allies. Her overtures this week included a pledge to increase flights to the tiny island state, which is struggling to boost tourism after cutting back on charter flights from mainland China. Tsai said national carrier China Airlines would add a fourth weekly flight to Palau to bolster the local tourism industry, which has been dominated by visitors from mainland China. She also gifted a coastal frigate for patrol of a new conservation area, to be established when the country closes part of its exclusive economic zone to commercial fishing by next year. The Taiwan leader made the commitments late Friday after meetings with Palau President Tommy Remengesau, who reaffirmed his tiny nation's "lasting friendship" with her country. "As our friends from Taiwan know all too well, as island states, securing our ocean spaces is vital to allow our respective national projects to flourish," he said. Remengesau added that Palau students currently on scholarships at the Taiwan Naval Academy would join its crew. The Taiwanese naval patrol frigate Hsun Hu No. 7 took part in joint exercises with Palau's Coast Guard on Saturday. Tsai addressed Palau's congress on Friday, thanking them for "their longstanding commitment to speaking up for Taiwan" at the UN and other world bodies, as well as for "upholding the core values of democracy and freedom". But the fragility of that support was underscored when both the Senate president and speaker, backers of shifting Palau's recognition from Taiwan to China, skipped the event. Beijing has stepped up diplomatic pressure on Taiwan since Tsai took office in 2016, as she has refused to acknowledge its "one China" policy that considers the self-ruling island a renegade province to be brought back into the fold. Five countries have switched official recognition to Beijing since Tsai became president, leaving Taipei with only 17 diplomatic allies including six in the Pacific, where China has been boosting its economic and military presence. Tsai leaves Palau on Sunday for Nauru and then the Marshall Islands. Tsai is due to wrap up her tour by transiting through Hawaii on March 27, drawing a protest by Beijing to Washington, which switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979 but remains Taiwan's most powerful unofficial ally and biggest arms supplier. Thailand's king issued a rare statement late Saturday hours before the junta-run country's first election in nearly five years, quoting his late father's advice to support "good" leaders to prevent "chaos". King Maha Vajiralongkorn's last-minute intervention comes less than two months after a royal command torpedoed the candidacy of his elder sister Princess Ubolratana for prime minister of a party linked to billionaire ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The party was later dissolved by a court, a fresh chapter of intrigue in the politically combustible country. Thaksin was ousted in a 2006 coup -- and went into self-exile two years later -- but his affiliated parties have won every Thai election since. On Friday Ubolratana was guest of honour at the glitzy Hong Kong wedding of Thaksin's daughter -- with photos of the tycoon and the princess hugging and smiling going viral. The unscheduled palace statement featured remarks by late king Bhumibol Adulyadej from 1969 calling for people to "support good people to govern the society and control the bad people" to prevent them from "creating chaos." Vajiralongkorn urged the public to "remember and be aware" of the remarks of his father, who died in 2016. The message comes a few hours before Thais are set to vote for the first time since a 2014 coup. The king called on the general public, the military, police and civil service to heed the words of his father. "His majesty is concerned about the stability of the nation, the feelings and happiness of the people," the statement added. The election pits a royalist junta and its allies against the Shinawatra's successful electoral machine and an unpredictable wave of millennial voters, whose political loyalties are unknown. The junta-party, which is proposing army chief turned premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha for civilian prime minister after the polls, is under intense pressure to perform well in what is effectively a referendum on its popularity. Prayut toppled the civilian government of Thaksin's younger sister Yingluck in 2014 -- the twelfth successful coup by the army in less than a century. The ruling junta has written new rules for this election aimed at curbing the number of seats big parties -- specifically the Shinawatras' election-winning Pheu Thai -- can win. Pheu Thai is expected to again sweep up the north and northeastern heartlands as it seeks to head an anti-junta coalition. Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. But the palace holds unassailable powers and is shielded from criticism by a harsh royal defamation law. burs-joe/apj/rma President Donald Trump said on Thursday the United States should acknowledge Israeli sovereignty over the hotly-contested Golan Heights, in a major pre-election gift to his ally Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "After 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel's Sovereignty over the Golan Heights," Trump said in a tweet. Trump called the Golan -- a strategic area seized from Syria and annexed in a move never recognized by the international community -- "of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability!" About 20,000 Israeli settlers live in the Golan, which overlooks Syrian territory. Trump's abrupt announcement was immediately cheered by Netanyahu, who faces a tough reelection battle and visits Washington next week. "At a time when Iran seeks to use Syria as a platform to destroy Israel, President Trump boldly recognizes Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights," the right-wing prime minister wrote on Twitter. "Thank you President Trump!" There was also quick approval from the senior Republican in the US Senate, Lindsey Graham, who is pushing for Congress to recognize Israeli control over the Golan. "President Trump's decision to recognize the Golan as part of Israel is strategically wise and overall awesome. Well done, Mr. President!" Graham tweeted. Trump's announcement coincided with a visit by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Jerusalem, where he became the first high-ranking American official to visit the Western Wall alongside an Israeli prime minister -- another boost for Netanyahu. However, Leon Panetta a veteran Democrat who served as CIA director and defense secretary, among other roles, blasted Trump for "tweeting out another policy that obviously has not been worked out with our international partners." - Diplomatic bombshell - The Golan recognition is only the latest diplomatic bombshell dropped by Washington, which is Israel's main backer, in seeking to redraw the fraught Middle East map. In 2017, Trump also went against decades of practice in recognizing the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, rather than the previously accepted Tel Aviv. The Golan Heights move was hinted at a week ago when the State Department changed its usual description of the area as "occupied" to "Israeli-controlled." The Trump State Department has likewise dropped previous definitions of the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and Gaza Strip as being "occupied" by the Jewish state. Israel occupied the Golan Heights, West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Six-Day War. It later annexed the Golan Heights and East Jerusalem in moves never recognized by the international community. During Pompeo's Jerusalem trip, there was also speculation that his Western Wall visit with Netanyahu could be interpreted as tacit approval of Israel's claim to sovereignty over the site. The wall is one of Judaism's holiest spots, but located in mainly Palestinian east Jerusalem. Trump's latest shakeup comes ahead of the expected unveiling of a White House plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace. Palestinian leaders, who broke off contact with Washington after the recognition of Jerusalem by Trump, say they expect the plan to be blatantly biased in favor of Israel. Panetta, who was speaking on CNN, said the Golan recognition "gives up one of the chips that everyone thought would be part of a Middle East peace agreement deal." "It's going to create real problems with our Arab partners in that part of the world," he said. Trump will host Netanyahu at the White House next Monday and Tuesday. The Israeli leader will be in Washington for the annual conference of the powerful American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) pro-Israel lobbying group. Netanyahu, who is campaigning under threat of indictment for corruption, is hoping that the strong US backing will help push him over the finish line. But Robert Malley, president of the Crisis Group consultancy, said the "intensely political" decision by Trump was "in disregard of international law" and "an ominous step at a time when voices in Israel calling for the annexation of the West Bank are growing louder." Volkswagen Alabang, which opened in late 2014 in the Molito commercial complex as a satellite showroom, is now a dealership with a more comprehensive display lineup, and is situated along the service road of Alabang-Zapote Road beside the Caltex station at the Madrigal Business Park in Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa City. Volkswagen Alabang, which was among the first four dealership network inaugurated soon after Volkswagen Philippines started business operations in late September 2013, addresses Volkswagen clientele in southern Metro Manila who are ready for the German-engineered precision and craftsmanship at accessible price points. The new Volkswagen Alabang dealership gives visiting customers an even more expansive showroom experience, while offering an enhanced aftersales service consistent with the premium automobile ownership. Volkswagen Alabang completes the present roster of eight dealer network of Volkswagen Philippines, the others being Volkswagen BGC at 938 28th Street City Center, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City; Volkswagen Quezon Avenue at 1229 Quezon Avenue, Quezon City; Volkswagen Greenfield District Service Center at 833 Sheridan Street, Barangay Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City; Volkswagen Pampanga at McArthur Highway, Dolores, City of San Fernando, Pampanga; Volkswagen Cebu at A. Soriano Avenue, North Reclamation Area, Cebu City; Volkswagen Iloilo at Top North, Mandurriao, Iloilo City, Iloilo; and, Volkswagen Bacolod along Araneta Street, Singcang, Bacolod City. Volkswagen Alabang As announced by new Volkswagen Philippines President Felipe Estrella last February 28, the exclusive importer and distributor of Volkswagen vehicles in the country intends to expand its nationwide dealership network to 12 by the end of 2019. The dealership expansion has, in fact, started rolling, with Volkswagen Sta. Rosa in Laguna to become the ninth and the most recent addition. The dealer network expansion has also been seen as a necessary step for the German marque to achieve its 2019 target sales that aims to top its 2018 sales record of 1,363 units by at least 50 percent more, consistent with its compounded annual growth rate of 67 percent since it started operations in 2013. Story continues Customers visiting the new Volkswagen Alabang showroom will see on display, and available for test drive, the vehicles that will make the ownership experience that is unique to the Volkswagen brand even more accessible to Filipinos: The Santana, Santana GTS, Lavida, Tiguan, and, Lamando. Customers can beat the morning rush hour to the dealership, as the Volkswagen Alabang showroom opens as early as 7 AM every day (including Sundays) and closes at 7 PM, while service hours begin from 8 AM up to 5 PM (Mondays to Saturdays). To make it even more convenient for customers, they can call in advance at trunkline (02) 5585807 or mobile number 09178549093, and ask for the Operations Manager (Eduard Rivera) to personally take care of their needs. With the bigger, more accessible, and enhanced aftersales services offered by the new Volkswagen Alabang, Filipinos residing and working in southern Metro Manila can now be more confidently assured: With Volkswagen, your drive will be better. Volkswagen Alabang The post Volkswagen Alabangs New Location Offers Better Showroom Experience for Southern Metro Clients appeared first on Carmudi Philippines. Photo credit: Melanie Stetson Freeman - Getty Images From Esquire (Permanent Musical Accompaniment To The Last Post Of The Week From The Blog's Favourite Living Canadian) COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA-On Friday, I took in the Beto O'Rourke Experience for the first time, at an outdoor rally on the campus of the University of South Carolina. O'Rourke was making his first swing through this state, about which more anon. He bounced onto the stage in a USC ballcap, led the crowd in the traditional "Game! Cocks!" call-and-response chant. And then delivered a speech that, I believe, consisted of one single 40-minute sentence. It took in a smattering of Spanish, a paean to the 1966 NCAA Champion Texas Western minors, the civil rights struggle both within and without O'Rourke's native El Paso, the climate crisis, the cost of prescription drugs, student loans, and every other conceivable issue that might arise during the 2020 campaign. He spoke with the same level of passion about all of them. O'Rourke has one rhetorical setting-loud and earnest. But the most interesting part of his appearance on campus Friday was the Q-and-A session that ended it. For the first time, somebody got O'Rourke simply...to...slow...down. He handled the bogus controversy about how much money his late Senate campaign got from people in the oil and gas industry by pointing out that most of it came in small amounts from the grunts in the industry. "As you can imagine in Texas, there are a lot of people-they may be out in the field. They may be engineers. They may be welders. They may be truck drivers. They may be secretaries, working for oil and gas companies. We were one of the top recipients of oil and gas money-ten bucks, twenty bucks, a hundred bucks at a time. At the same time, we were also the top recipient of hairdresser money, and pharmacist money, and doctors and schoolchildren, and just about every profession. The people in Texas-and some of you in South Carolina-stepped up and made sure that Texas, a state so reliably red that no Democrat ever competed or feared to tread, made sure that, if we banded together, which every one of the 254 counties banded together and did no let oil and gas corporation, any special interest to purchase access or corrupt, or give the appearance of corruption, we might just win." Story continues By the end of the answer, he had them cheering. His crowd was young, as might be expected, and it was overwhelmingly white, which may be significant. South Carolina is going to be the first real test of the ability of the Democratic field to connect with African American voters, a vital constituency for any Democratic presidential candidate. If O'Rourke is going for the Obama '08 inside straight, he's still a little bit short of it, which isn't that big a problem considering the primary is a year away. But he's going to have to put some meat on the superheated grill of his rhetoric. Enthusiasm isn't enough. Photo credit: Melanie Stetson Freeman - Getty Images Weekly WWOZ Pick To Click:"Banks of Newfoundland" (Siobhan Miller): Yeah, I pretty much still love New Orleans. Weekly Visit To The Pathe Archives: In 1962, four Capuchin monks were brought to trial for conspiracy to commit extortion, blackmail, robbery, and murder, all of which, I am fairly sure, are in violation of their vows. The so-called "Mazzarino Friars" started out by extorting their superiors in the Capuchin order and moved on quickly to shaking down local businessmen. The Church and its propagandists in the local press accused unnamed anti-Catholic Communists of setting up the friars. (One of the primary witnesses may have been "suicided" in custody.) The civilian assassins were convicted. The four priests were acquitted. 'Twas ever thus. History is so cool. Is it a good day for dinosaur news, ScienceDaily? it's always a good day for dinosaur news! "This is the rex of rexes," said Scott Persons, lead author of the study and postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Biological Sciences. "There is considerable size variability among Tyrannosaurus. Some individuals were lankier than others and some were more robust. Scotty exemplifies the robust. Take careful measurements of its legs, hips, and even shoulder, and Scotty comes out a bit heftier than other T. rex specimens." Scotty, nicknamed for a celebratory bottle of scotch the night it was discovered, has leg bones suggesting a living weight of more than 8,800 kg, making it bigger than all other carnivorous dinosaurs. The scientific work on Scotty has been a correspondingly massive project. The skeleton was first discovered in 1991, when paleontologists including T. rex expert and UAlberta professor Phil Currie were called in on the project. But the hard sandstone that encased the bones took more than a decade to remove -- only now have scientists been able to study Scotty fully-assembled and realize how unique a dinosaur it is. It took 28 years to get a complete look at this guy. That's a lot of work, but an 8,000 kg tyrannosaur is worth the wait, and surely lived then to make its discoverers, and us, happy now. Top Commenter Chris Caswell locked up Top Commenter of the Week because he let his creative freak flag fly regarding Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin's decision to let his kids get chicken pox. What wasn't reported in the story: Bevin used a crayon to connect the dots that appeared on his children's skin. When laid out side by side, the children then revealed a very good likeness of Edvard Munch's The Scream. IIRC, there was an episode of The Dick Van Dyke Show in which his son connected his freckles and made a depiction of the Liberty Bell. This is like that, except with epidemic disease. Anyway, 90.77 Beckhams to you, good sir. Jesus, it's weird to be chasing campaigns again. It seems like only yesterday, and yet, it seems like it's been 300 years instead of three. Anyway, be well and play nice, ya bastids. Stay above the snake-line, and, if somebody yells, "Game!" at you, reply, loudly, "Cocks!" and then wait for the cops. Respond to this post on the Esquire Politics Facebook page here. ('You Might Also Like',) The Wilsons style of trick-or-treating always made everyone uncomfortable. 2019 Universal Studios Director Jordan Peeles latest nightmare is best described as an episode of The Twilight Zone, if it were scripted by Dostoevsky and directed by George A. Romero. Us is a brilliant horror satire about doppelgangers going on a rampage and like Peeles stunning debut Get Out (see our review), its really a biting commentary on contemporary American society dressed as a suspenseful, if slightly hyperbolic, horror film. So those familiar with his work will know not to take the tongue-in-cheek wackiness of the plot at face value. Us follows an endearing family as they vacation at their remote holiday cabin. Determined to take their merry-making to the next level, Gabe (Winston Duke) convinces his wife Adelaide (Lupita Nyongo), and kids to drive up to the nearby Santa Cruz beach where they catch up with another couple and their two teen daughters. We also learn at the start of the movie through a very eerie flashback sequence that Adelaide sustained psychological trauma as a young girl in 1986. At a boardwalk carnival, she wandered off alone and found herself at the creepy funhouse of mirrors where she saw something that terrified her. Thats your Facebook profile photo right there. 2019 Universal Studios What happens next is obscured as the film jumps forward to the present day where Adelaide and her family hang out at the same beach where she had her scare all those years ago. She grows increasingly uneasy and her paranoia comes to a head that very night when their cabin gets broken into by four strangers. As if things arent bad enough already, they discover, to their horror, that the four invaders are their doppelgangers, dressed in red jumpsuits and brandishing a pair of gold scissors. They are led by Adelaides double, whos ominously named Red (also Nyongo). The family must then face their demons (literally!) in order to survive. And this is just the half of it! Peele has created a new and expansive horror mythology that will have genre fans theorising excitedly about it for a long time to come. Story continues Their album cover shoot was rather unusual. 2019 Universal Studios Like Get Out, Us is thematically loaded and bursting with symbolism. In true Peele fashion, this horror movie about psychotic doppelgangers is filled with deliciously wicked double meaning that serves as the vehicle for the films socially-conscious messaging. Its hard to do a deep dive into what Peele wants to convey without giving up spoilers and Us doles out enough suprises for viewers to go in with as little knowledge about the plot as possible. It is taut and bloody, so be prepared to process several stress-inducing fight-for-survival type sequences. There are various ways to interpret the film but the thing to keep in mind is the idea of double meaning. It then makes sense that Us,refers to both the objective case of we as well as the United States. And the film all but confirms it when at one point Adelaide asks horrified, What are you? Were Americans, Red quips. Even Peele has said in several interviews that Us is not about race relations but the state of Trump-era America, particularly how extra divisive it has gotten in recent years, fuelled by an escalating fear of the other. The primary objective here is to hold up a mirror to American society and compel it to face its demons and acknowledge the duality that exists in us all. 2019 Universal Studios Playing the likeable family and and their deranged doppelgangers also presents an opportunity for the cast to really showcase some range, and Im happy to report that they all rise to the challenge. The performance that really anchors the film Is Nyongos virtuosic turn as Adelaide and Red. As Adelaide, the Oscar-winner plays the neurotic, protective and soulful mother convincingly. By contrast, as Red, she is cruel and downright frightening with an unsettling raspy voice which she devised especially for this character. Its based on an actual medical condition called spasmodic dysphonia, a neurological disorder that causes involuntary spasms of the larynx. And its often a symptom of deep trauma. Us may not be as tight and clear as Get Out, but it is still an effective horror film masterfully executed with intelligence. And in an industry that is saturated with comic book and novel adaptations as well as reboots and remakes, Peele belongs to a rare breed of filmmakers who make a conscious effort to realise their original ideas and scripts. And thats something worth going to the cinema for! Us is out in Singapore cinemas now. Have you seen it? Tell us what you think below. The post Us review: Home invasion thriller with a twist appeared first on Geek Crusade. Photo credit: Kai Schwoerer - Getty Images From Harper's BAZAAR Women in New Zealand wore headscarves to show solidarity with the Muslim community one week after 50 people were killed in two mosque shootings in Christchurch. The "Headscarf for Harmony" movement was started by Thaya Ashman, a doctor in Auckland. Participants shared photos of themselves wearing the scarves on social media, and some shared their stories with BAZAAR.com. Women in New Zealand wore headscarves on Friday to pay tribute to the victims of the tragic shootings at two mosques in Christchurch last week. The gesture was a sign of solidarity with the Muslim community, which was targeted in the attack, especially Muslim women who wear the hijab, a veil covering the head and hair as an expression of their religious identity. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who swiftly announced a national ban on assault-style weapons a week after the tragedy that killed 50 people, wore a headscarf when she joined a Muslim call to prayer in Christchurch today. Women around the country-and around the world-also partook in the tribute. Photo credit: Kai Schwoerer - Getty Images News anchor Samantha Hayes wore a black headscarf on air. She noted on Instagram that this week, she saw a woman get harassed on the train for wearing a hijab after the shootings. "Im wearing a headscarf today for her, and for the families and friends of those killed in Christchurch a week ago," she wrote in the post. More participants in the tribute shared photos of themselves, friends, and families on social media, often with the hashtag #HeadscarvesForHarmony or #HeadscarfForHarmony. The social movement was started by Auckland doctor Thaya Ashman, Reuters reports. She started the movement, which is supported by Islamic Women's Council and the New Zealand Muslim Association, "to show our support, but also to recognise our grief as New Zealanders," she told Newshub. Story continues Here, a few women tell BAZAAR.com about their decision to take part in the movement. Rebecca Dickson of Christchurch, the city where the attacks took place, said she decided to wear a headscarf because "our Muslim community deserved to see that we love and support them. No one should feel fear or shame for what they wear or who they are. Kotahitanga is a beautiful Maori word meaning oneness and unity, and I believe we all helped embody that. I explained it to my daughter and she wanted to wear one too, one of two kids in her school who did. It was a simple thing for me to do but I can see it has meant a lot to so many." Larissa (Lala) McCarthy, a mother of 5, from Taupo, New Zealand: "I chose to wear a headscarf in solidarity with my Muslim sisters and brothers on March 22 as I believe in living my life through love and compassion. I believe in teaching my children to do the right thing, even when it is hard sometimes. I chose to feel and see only love. I felt proud yet humbled wearing it." Krystal Elizabeth Edwards of Auckland City: "I chose to wear a headscarf for many reasons, what happened in our country last week broke my heart. I wanted to go out into the world and show our unity, my love and support for the Muslim community. We are all one race: the human race. We will stand together in love and harmony and rise up against the hatred." Lynia Brooking of Te Araroa, New Zealand: "Not only did I take part in the headscarf tribute to show my undying support and love for our Muslim brothers and sisters, but to show, no matter how different we are, if we come together AS ONE PEOPLE in love and support, amazing things can happen." Jordan Reid from Tauranga, New Zealand: "After a week of joining this country in grieving the tragedy of last Friday, I felt I didnt have the words to articulate my devastation and to express my support for the Muslim Community. When I came across #headscarvesforharmony, I realized that I could use my craft to silently create a symbol of unity and support for all NZ women." Courtney Linwood from Oamaru, New Zealand: "I truly believed we lived in one of the safest countries in the world; you hear of things happening like this all over the world but I never thought it would happen here. Along with the rest of the nation, my heart was broken. I am so incredibly proud of the outpouring of love, support and compassion that our country has shown. Our Prime Minister has been an absolute inspiration and I think all leaders across the world should take note. "I chose to wear a headscarf to show solidarity and support for all Muslim women in our country that are too scared to wear their hijab in public out of fear of being identified as Muslim. I don't want them to feel scared. This is their home and they are us, just normal people trying to live their life. We are all human and all deserve to be treated as equals. I've had messages from all over the world thanking me for wearing a headscarf, telling me how much it means to them. I've seen nothing but love and support and that warms my heart. I will never forget that day, but it has only made us stronger as a nation. Love will always win." Sophie Nicole from Auckland: "The evening after the Christchurch terrorist attack my partner and I went to the beach, to remind ourselves why we live in beautiful New Zealand (also both immigrants from the U.K.). It was dark and the only light was from the moon. We saw a Muslim family walk past and I hoped that they chose to be there at that time and not because they felt they had to hide. I hoped with every ounce of my being that they felt safe and welcome in the moment, knowing full well that they probably didn't. "For me, wearing a hijab was a way of showing unity, solidarity, tolerance and kindness. I'm proud to stand along side Muslim men and women as part of one race, the human race, as no one should feel afraid to be themselves. If by me wearing a hijab helped one person feel less afraid and helps them be free to express their culture or to be themselves then it is worth it 1000 times over." ('You Might Also Like',) 2019 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #12 Posted on 23 March 2019 by John Hartz A chronological listing of news articles posted on the Skeptical Science Facebook Page during the past week, i.e., Sun, Mar 17 through Sat, Mar 23, 2019 Editor's Pick Tim Flannery: people are shocked about climate change but they should be angry The author and scientist, who has returned to his roots at the Australian Museum, says the world is about to see a major shift towards climate action Tim Flannery: Were in a different world now, a world where people are living with climate change consequences Photograph: Carly Earl/The Guardian Tim Flannery laments that young Australians today will never be able to experience in the same way the natural wonders he enjoyed in his youth. He grew up in Melbourne on remnants of the sandplain flora, one of the great floristic gems of Australia, he says. Once smothered in flowers in springtime, it has now largely been lost through development and altered burning regimes. Flannery, 63, spent his youth swimming and scuba diving in northern Port Phillip bay, which he says is now also gravely deteriorated. He further points to the Great Barrier Reef, which suffered unprecedented mass bleaching in 2016 and 2017 and the serious questions about whether it can now be saved. Something like 70% of the reef that was there a century ago is now dead, he says. But without detailed records on species distributions, its impossible to map the losses due to climate change, explains Flannery, who recently returned to the 192-year-old Australian Museum in Sydney, where he was principal mammalogist from 19841999. Rather than being a fusty old relic the museum is playing a vital role in this, he says. The collections that say where things were, and when, are here and thats the most important asset weve got to understand the response of biodiversity to climate change The people of New South Wales need to understand what a valuable asset they have. Tim Flannery: People are shocked about climate change but they should be angry, Interview by John Pickrell, Environment, Guardian, Mar 20, 2019 Links posted on Facebook Sun Mar 17, 2019 Mon Mar 18, 2019 Tue Mar 19, 2019 Wed Mar 20, 2019 Thu Mar 21, 2019 Fri Mar 22, 2019 Sat Mar 23, 2019 The opening scene of the new book Kushner Inc. depicts Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, Americas prince and princess, dancing at an inaugural ball. Meanwhile Jareds parents, Charles and Seryl, celebrate Shabbat a mile away, sniping at their other son and dreaming about the possibility of a presidential pardon for Charles. See, the book reminds us over and over, theres a contrast between Jared and Ivankas serene public image and their sordid hidden motivations. The book, by former Vanity Fair contributing editor Vicky Ward, is the most comprehensive collection of Jared and Ivankas scandals, missteps, and personality flaws to date. If anyone, anywhere, has reported something negative about Javanka, Ward has found it. This week, for example, House Democrats warned that Jared has been using the messaging service WhatsApp to conduct official business, including communicating with Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. Ward mentions Kushner and MBSs WhatsApp relationship in her book, having dug out the detail from a story in the Intercept last spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kushner Inc. is very much of its genrewhich is to say, contemporary White House palace-intrigue reporting. The most entertaining books on politics these days are often somewhat hazily sourced and heavily aggregated. This is a perfectly satisfying approach as long as the reader shares the authors instincts about who the storys villains and heroes areand why would you pick up this book if you dont? Ward repeats rumors about Charles Kushners bisexuality, Ivankas plastic surgery, and a perhaps apocryphal story about Jared kissing his fathers bare foot in a meeting. Anonymous sources tell Ward that the Kushner family scorned Jareds brothers now-wife, model Karlie Kloss, as an undereducated shiksa from Missouri; Seryl likely saw Joshs marriage to Kloss as her biggest failure. Advertisement Advertisement Ward also speculates about a profit-sharing agreement between Josh and Jared. Using the acronym BFPS, which stands for Brothers First, Partners Second, she suggests that each Kushner brother vowed to give half his profits to the other. The hedging is extreme: This person was told, it may be a vehicle for an arrangement, if such an arrangement existed, it is possible that it changed, capped off with an official denial from Joshs spokesman. Some tidbits have been filtered through multiple sources before settling onto the page. One chapter opens by quoting a New York Times review of a Bob Woodward book, including a line directly from the Woodward book, which in itself was summarizing the impressions of an anonymous source. This is an Instagram-filter approach to journalism, making allegations both fuzzier and sexier. Advertisement Advertisement The book is packaged as the extraordinary story of Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, but Ward is not as interested in Ivanka. She depicts the first daughter as inauthentic, overconfident, petty, out of touch, and not particularly bright, but ultimately less diabolical than her husband. One source tells Ward that before Ivanka shuttered her fashion brand, she would hover near her father when he received calls from foreign dignitaries who she thought could be helpful to her. She would hop on the call to chit-chat (something about yoga) until her father cut her off. Another source who sat next to Ivanka at a dinner party tells Ward that Ivanka insisted that libertarian and liberal were the same thing. When he suggested they look it up, she allegedly replied, Ill take that under advisement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kushner is the books real target. While Ivankas behavior was irritating, Ward writes, Kushner was playing a game on a whole different level. She characterizes Jareds infamously shady handling of the deal to sell 666 Fifth Avenue, his distracted and dishonest approach to running the New York Observer, and his inept meddling in the White Houses relationship with Mexico, Israel, and Qatar. Unlike Ivankas unseemly self-promotion, Jareds corruption seems to come in multiples of 1,000,000,000, and has put national security at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Many of Wards meatier allegations are drawn from reporting in the New York Times, Vanity Fair, the New Yorker, and New York magazine. This is still a useful service. Kushners complex, sprawling scandals have dribbled out in newsprint over the course of many months, so its clarifying to have them compiled and summarized in one place, even when the reporting isnt new. Ward also has several sources close to Steve Bannon and former secretary of state Rex Tillerson (if not the men themselves) who offer inside-the-room tidbits about those contentious relationships. When Tillerson told Kushner that his interference in the delicate relationship between Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and United States had put the country in danger, Kushner allegedly stormed out. Hes the type of person who lights the firecracker and then realizes its going to blow up and hands it off, a source tells Ward, in a typically juicy quote. Like last years Michael Wolff best-seller Fire and Fury, Kushner Inc. serves its readers exactly what they are craving. I fondly remember a 2010 weekend I stayed inside with John Edwards aide Andrew Youngs dishy tell-all The Politician. I gobbled up every word of that book, and now cant imagine ever returning to it. Anything this delicious comes with an expiration date, and might leave you feeling a little ill afterward. But its still helplessly fun to devour. Hundreds of thousands of protesters took to the streets of London Saturday afternoon to call on the countrys leaders to hold a second referendum on whether Britain should split from the European Union. Organizers claimed an estimated one million people took part in the Peoples Vote March as the continuing uncertainty about the countrys future has led to a political stalemate amid uncertainty over how or when Brexit could take place. If the estimate holds up, it would make the march the second-largest in London after a rally against the Iraq War gathered close to two million people in February 2003. Advertisement Many protesters carried EU flags and there was also plenty of the legendary British wit in some of the signs that the marchers carried. Here are some of the best. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement next time on RuPauls Best Anti-Brexit Placard Race: pic.twitter.com/78XipNSfzp Andrew (@tweetsbyandrewc) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Even a @RuPaul shout out at the anti-Brexit march today in London! pic.twitter.com/SE2VVvqCvH Paul Noblet (@PaulNoblet) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Top protest banners so far include: Pulling out doesnt work, just ask my Dad. pic.twitter.com/hrrycyG7dU Alex Jackson (@alexjacksondir) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My sister made a darn good sign for the #PeoplesVoteMarch pic.twitter.com/6V5EBOGJQC Jasper Wenban-Smith (@JWenbanSmith) March 23, 2019 Advertisement After weeks of fighting the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces declared it had finally defeated the last Islamic State stronghold in Syria. That effectively meant the end of the brutal Islamic State caliphate that began in 2014 when the militants started taking control of certain territories in Iraq and Syria in 2014. The last stand for ISIS took place in the village of Baghouz, where militants battled fiercely against the U.S.-backed forces as they refused to give in on the last 1.5.-square-mile land that they ended up controlling. Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved, tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the SDF. Advertisement Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and %100 territorial defeat of ISIS. On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible. #SDFDefeatedISIS Mustafa Bali (@mustefabali) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even as they celebrated though, members of the SDF made it clear that they were well aware this hardly marked the end of the ISIS threat. This is a big moment not just for us but for all of the world, said Kino Gabriel, a spokesman for the SDF. But we cannot say that ISIS is finished. It is true that they are finished on the ground as a standing army. But the ISIS threat remains around the globe. Advertisement Advertisement Todays liberation of Daeshs last territory in Syria is a historic achievement. But the fight is NOT over. We remain resolute in our commitment to tackle the real threat Daesh & its poisonous ideology poses to people in Iraq, Syria & around the world Jeremy Hunt (@Jeremy_Hunt) March 23, 2019 Despite this recognition of a continuing threat, the destruction of the ISIS territories marks a remarkable turnaround for a group that once controlled a large swath of territory that was the size of Britain and controlled the daily lives of around 8 million people. Taking hold of a large chunk of territory didnt just assist ISIS with its recruiting efforts, it also helped it raise lots of cash through taxes. That turned the Islamic State into the richest terrorist organization in the world. Advertisement The liberation of the last Daesh-held territory wouldnt have been possible without the immense courage of UK military and our allies. We will continue to do what is necessary to protect the British people, our Allies and partners from the threat Daesh poses. Theresa May (@theresa_may) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Even though the group is clearly diminished, experts warned that ISIS is still stronger now than it was in 2011, when U.S. troops pulled out of Iraq, notes the New York Times. There is a tendency to rush into declarations of victory too fast and too early with jihadist groups, Charlie Winter, a senior research fellow of the International Center for the Study of Radicalization at Kings College London, said. It may be weaker in the immediate term, but there is not a chance in hell that it has been defeated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nous noublions pas les victimes de Daech. Letape franchie aujourdhui est immense : un danger majeur pour notre pays est elimine. Mais la menace demeure et la lutte contre les groupes terroristes doit continuer. Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) March 23, 2019 As some worry about how the fight against ISIS fighters will go more underground to combat what have effectively become sleeper cells around the globe, others are trying to figure out how to bring captured fighters to justice. Most governments dont want to repatriate their citizens in order to try them, figuring there wont be much chance of pressing charges against them. But local officials say they dont have the resources to hold, let alone put on trial, some 800 foreign fighters currently in custody. Fox News spent most of Friday night taking a victory lap. Well, happy No Collusion Day, Tucker! Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz told Tucker Carlson with a big grin on his face. Happy No Collusion Day! Carlson laughed. Earlier Friday, special counsel Robert Mueller had delivered his long-awaited report to the U.S. attorney general. While the public doesnt know whats inside the report, unnamed Department of Justice sources told numerous media organizations that the special counsels office had issued no new indictments as it wrapped up its investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. This was all Fox News needed to know to declare an impromptu national holiday. The lefts favorite conspiracy theory is now dead, said Sean Hannity at the top of his show, looking like the picture of sanctimony. It is buried. And there was no collusion. No conspiracy. No obstruction. Nothing. The witch hunt is over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is and it isnt. Almost no one has even read the Mueller report. But the witch hunt narrative is too good for Fox to let go of that easily. The network spent two years preemptively discrediting the Mueller investigation while preparing to go to bat for President Trump in case the eventual report led Democrats to attempt to boot him from office. Removing a president is mostly a political question, and Fox was always going to make sure that the rabid right was against impeachment no matter what the Mueller report said. If the report had been devastating, the network would have just ignored or tried to discredit it with the same rhetorical sleight-of-hand it has used since Mueller was first appointed. For the moment, Fox News personalities think theyve been vindicatedbut theres no way theyre going to stop screaming witch hunt! Since they wont need to use it against Mueller anymore, theyll find a way to use it against Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Whatever we learn about the Mueller report, Friday evenings broadcast told us a lot about how the news will unfold on Fox Newsand how that will shape the reception of the report among conservatives. Advertisement First, the network used the reports of no new indictments to characterize the entire Mueller investigation as exculpatory to the president. I have spent 12 hours testifying in front of the House [Intelligence] Committee, and [Reps. Adam] Schiff and Eric Swalwell, who repeatedly said they are 100 percent certain that there was Russia collusion, said former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski. They said it many times. Now we know that there was no collusion. This take is premature since, again, no one at Fox has seen the report, but Foxs cadre of opinion hosts and panelists have never been shy about extrapolating broad conclusions from limited evidence. Even if the final Mueller report proves more nuanced than Foxs initial interpretationeven if it proves outright damagingthe network knows its role is to declare total victory for Donald Trump. If its hosts say that loudly and often enough, its viewers may not even notice if the score ends up closer than it initially appeared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What about all the Trumpworld figures who have been indicted, sentenced, and convicted of charges brought by Muellers investigators? Easy: Foxs talking heads dismissed these offenses as mere process crimes. While news anchor Chris Wallace valiantly tried to push back on this argument during the 6 oclock hourprocess crimes are not parking tickets, process crimes are lying to federal prosecutors, theyre lying to the FBI. This is the very basis under which justice is administered, he told Bret BaierI suspect his take will not become the networks dominant interpretation. Later Friday evening, Sean Hannity triumphantly slapped PROCESS CRIMES over an image of Mueller. Advertisement Advertisement Process crimes are no big deal compared to the purportedly more serious violations that Fox News now believes have been cleared up. Since they assume the president is not directly implicated by the report in any collusion with Russia, Foxs talkers are finally free to concede that colluding with Russia, in the abstract, is a very bad thing for a sitting president to do. If it were true that [Trump] was an agent of Russia, you wouldnt just be seeing one indictment. Youd be seeing dozens, if not hundreds of indictments, contributor Mollie Hemingway told Tucker Carlson at the outset of his show. Advertisement Advertisement And justified indictments, by the way, Carlson said of these hypothetical indictments. If the president of the United States was an agent of a foreign power? Yeah. Yes, hopefully we would be taking that very seriously, said Hemingway. Yes, we would be, said Carlson, with a certainty that I find somewhat hard to accept. Fox News most prominent opinion hosts have spent much of the past two years trying to smear Muellers credibility. Mueller should not be in charge of any investigation as it relates to Russia or Russian collusion or election interference, because he has yet another massive conflict of interest, Hannity said all the way back in October 2017, one example of thousands. If Mueller had delivered a report and indicted more figures close to the president, one that told a compelling and well-documented story about collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign, you can bet that Fox Newss opinion hosts would be dismissing it all as a product of bias and corruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But since they now hazard that the report does not document any acts of collusion, Fox opinion-havers face a slight consistency problem. If youre going to trust the Mueller reports conclusions, you also have to accept the credibility of its chief author, the hated Robert Mueller. The president and his allies have been out there attacking Robert Mueller, National Correspondent Ed Henry told Tucker Carlson Friday. But if Robert Muellers report now essentially clears the presidentagain, if, if, if theyre gonna all of the sudden say, hey, we actually like Bob Mueller, we like this report, he followed the facts. Already on Friday night, the network had begun to pivot toward depicting Mueller as a rock-ribbed paragon of prosecutorial virtue. [Attorney General William] Barr understands what Ive understood from day one: Muellers No. 1 job is to report on what Russia did. The second part of that is with whom if anyone did they do it? former Republican Rep. Trey Gowdy told Harris Faulkner, who was filling in for Martha MacCallum. Thats the Democrat focus, that is their obsession. But that was not Muellers obsession. Later on the same show, former Trump campaign staffer and Mueller interviewee Michael Caputo said that Muellers team was the most remarkable group of investigators that we could have assembled. On Carlsons show, Ed Henry noted that congressional Democrats may have missed a key point, which is follow the facts. And maybe to his creditwe need to see the details of the reportmaybe Robert Mueller actually followed the facts. All of this from a network that has spent 22 months criticizing the Mueller investigation as a partisan hackjob. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though Foxs critiques of Mueller may well subside, its virulent attacks on Democrats and the non-conservative media will almost certainly increase. There needs to be a reckoning, Hemingway told Bret Baier in the 6 oclock hour, and the people who spread this theory both inside and outside the government, who were not critical and who did not behave appropriately, need to be held accountable. During the next block, guest Ben Shapiro spoke bitterly of the media malfeasance for two years suggesting beyond the evidence at hand that President Trump was responsible for deep, dark collusion with Russia that ended with Hillary Clinton losing the election. In the 8 oclock hour, Laura Ingraham informed Tucker Carlson that the collusion between the media apparatus, the dominant media apparatusother than Foxand the DNC, the deep state, is profound. And the international elites who wanted this all to be true. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I can almost taste their tears from here, Hannity said of the media during his opening monologue. Years and years of breathless hysteria, lies presented as facts and truth. What is, like, Maddow and all of the other MSNBC conspiracy theoristswhat are they going to cover now? Where does fake news CNN where do they find their content now? Advertisement Well see. (Again, no one has read the report!) But Fox News will find its content where it always has. It would be an unexpected turn of events if the Mueller witch hunt ended up being more useful to Fox than to the networks counterparts, but maybe thats how this was always going to turn out. Fox spent two years preparing for an all-out media war over the special counsels report. Of course it wont settle for anything less than absolute annihilation of the presidents critics, even if it no longer has to worry about Robert Mueller. Happy No Collusion Day! The husband of White House counselor Kellyanne Conway was at it again Saturday morning, writing a series of tweets that harshly criticized his wifes boss. This time, George Conway focused much of his criticism on the way President Donald Trump sparked lots of confusion with a tweet in which he appeared to roll back newly imposed sanctions against North Korea. Later, officials said Trump appeared to be referring to sanctions that had not yet been formally issued. Of course, as usual, Trump is incompetent, George Conway wrote Saturday morning, noting that the presidents tweet managed to confuse everyone. Apart from his mental instability, he is simply inept, George Conway wrote. Stupid. Advertisement Of course, as usual, Trump is incompetent. His tweet referred to sanctions that had been previously announced. But it turns out, he was referring to sanctions that had yet to be announced. He confused everyone. Apart from his mental instability, he is simply inept. Stupid. https://t.co/V00AdwPVbx George Conway (@gtconway3d) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conway then went on to criticize the president for his apparent effort to become buddy-buddy with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. The real story here is, again, pathological narcissism. Why did Trump waive the sanctions? Conway asked. Not to further the national interests of the United States no informed person could think that. No, its that he likes KJU, says the WH. He likes this butcher. Even though the North Korean dictator murders with anti-aircraft batteries, Trump likes him because he writes big, beautifuland most importantly, flatteringletters that play to Trumps ego. In the end, the presidents narcissistic impulses are trumping the national interests of our country. Advertisement Advertisement But the real story here is, again, pathological narcissism. Why did Trump waive the sanctions? Not to further the national interests of the United Statesno informed person could think that. No, its that he likes KJU, says the WH. He likes this butcher. He likes this ... George Conway (@gtconway3d) March 23, 2019 man who murders with anti-aircraft batteries, because he writes big, beautifuland most importantly, flatteringletters that play to Trumps ego. Narcissism. Narcissistic whim, trumping the presidential oath, and trumping the national security interests of our country. George Conway (@gtconway3d) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conway then went for the kill, writing that in our lifetimes there has never been a president who has been so singularly unfit for the presidency, or indeed any public office. As if that werent amazing enough, whats even more remarkable is that *almost every day* Trump does something new to drive home the point. In our lifetimes there has never been a president who has been so singularly unfit for the presidency, or indeed any public office. Thats remarkable enoughbut whats even more remarkable is that *almost every day* Trump does something new to drive home the point. George Conway (@gtconway3d) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The feud between Kellyanne Conways husband and Trump is hardly new, but it did reach new heights this week after Trump directly attacked George Conway on Twitter. George Conway, often referred to as Mr. Kellyanne Conway by those who know him, is VERY jealous of his wifes success & angry that I, with her help, didnt give him the job he so desperately wanted, Trump tweeted Wednesday morning. I barely know him but just take a look, a stone cold LOSER & husband from hell! Trump later continued his attack, telling reporters that George Conway is a whack job who is doing a tremendous disservice to a wonderful wife. Kellyanne Conway defended Trumps criticism of her husband. He left it alone for months out of respect for me, Conway told Politico. But you think he shouldnt respond when somebody, a non-medical professional accuses him of having a mental disorder? You think he should just take that sitting down? Advertisement Advertisement Selene Saavedra Roman, 28, a flight attendant who grew up in Dallas was released after six weeks of detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement after her case started getting media attention. As a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program recipient, Saavedra cant travel abroad but her employer, Mesa Airlines, wrongly assured her she would be fine when they scheduled her to fly to Mexico in February. But she was taken into custody when she returned to the United States on Feb. 12. Advertisement Being released is an incredible feeling. I cried and hugged my husband and never wanted to let go, Saavedra, who came to the United States when she was three years old and is now married to a U.S. citizen, said in a statement. I am thankful and grateful for the amazing people that came to fight for me, and it fills my heart. Thank you everyone that has supported. I am just so happy to have my freedom back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BREAKING: Selene Saavedra Roman has been freed. Full story: https://t.co/9DxDviDuxE pic.twitter.com/nZ4r2ODECN The Points Guy (@thepointsguy) March 22, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement The story of Saavedra, a Texas A&M graduate and former kindergarten teacher, quickly went viral as the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA took up her case and started pressuring for her release. We are deeply sorry Selene and her husband have had to endure this situation. It is patently unfair for someone to be detained for six weeks over something that is nothing more than an administrative error and a misunderstanding, said Mesa Chairman and CEO Jonathan Ornstein. Hillary Clinton picked up the cause on Friday and called on her Twitter followers to sign a petition demanding Saavedras release. A jury on Friday acquitted a white former police officer in the killing of a 17-year-old unarmed black teenager last year. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld had been charged with homicide for killing Antwon Rose II in June. Rosfeld, a rookie who had been sworn in mere hours before the shooting, said he thought Rose or another suspect had a gun. The panel of seven men and five women appear to have been persuaded by the argument and acquitted Rosfeld after fewer than four hours of deliberations. Advertisement Roses death had been captured on video and it sparked widespread protests last year. There were also protests Friday night after the verdict although they were smaller as some 100 protesters gathered and blocked intersections Friday night to protest the verdict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crowd was a mixture of black and white people and included two children who appeared to be under 6 years old Video by @alexandrawimley pic.twitter.com/uKAD9TQ8jt Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (@PittsburghPG) March 23, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Whose streets? Our streets! Three shots in the back. How do you justify that? chanted a crowd of more than 100 people at the intersection of Forbes and Grant. https://t.co/wiRHowebvk Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (@PittsburghPG) March 23, 2019 Advertisement S. Lee Merritt, the familys attorney, said the legal fight will continue. It will have to be challenged, in the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. It will have to continue to be challenged on a federal level, he said. Antwon Rose was shot in his back. He was unarmed, and he did not pose a threat to the officer or to the community, and the verdict today says that is OK, that is acceptable behavior from a police officer. Advertisement Michelle Kenney, Roses mother, said that while the verdict was disappointing, she wasnt really surprised. It isnt what I hoped for, but its what I expected, she said. Rose had been riding in an unlicensed taxi that had been involved in a drive-by shooting. Rosfeld then shot rose in the back, arm, and side of the face as he ran away after he was pulled over. I hope that man never sleeps at night, Kenney said of Rosfeld. I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none. Advertisement Advertisement Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto issued a statement after the verdict that he grieves with Roses family and friends. Words cannot heal the pain so many are feeling. Only action can begin the process, a process that will take work & understanding, he wrote. An understanding that inequality exists & we have a moral obligation to address it. I offer the full support of the city of Pittsburgh, to help us find light in darkness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tonight I grieve with Antwons family, friends, and the entire community. Words cannot heal the pain so many are feeling. Only action can begin the process, a process that will take work & understanding. (Part 1 of 2) bill peduto (@billpeduto) March 23, 2019 As of this writing, here is what we know for certain about special counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian interference in the 2016 election: He has delivered the report to attorney general William Barr. A senior Justice Department official also told reporters that Mueller is not recommending any additional indictments. Barr told congressional leaders that he is now reviewing the report and may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. So now, we wait. Advertisement Unless you are a member of resistance-fantasy Twitter, that is. A loose cohort of online activists and quasi-journalists has spent the last few years creating the digital equivalent of a bulletin board covered in yarn, thumbtacks, and photos of everyone who has ever shaken hands with Donald Trump. And unsurprisingly, some of its biggest stars seemed preeeeetty sure on Friday night that no new indictments could mean only one thing: tons of new indictments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louise Mensch, a British blogger and former member of Parliament, spent much of Friday evening watching MSNBC and reacting either in horror or jubilation to its experts speculation. When Sen. Richard Blumenthal said that the full account was likely to include wrongdoing not covered by any indictments, Mensch interpreted that as a coded prediction: Its almost like the Democrats on the key committees are confident of more indictments. When Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, referred to Muellers office as a small contractor to the Department of Justice, she translated it as an implication that the office couldnt handle the volume of indictments to come. (She capped off her tweet with a smiley.) Toward the end of the evening, Mensch was retweeting follower replies including a photo of an Adam Schiff doll crocheted by a fan. Advertisement Advertisement Mensch also tweeted out a March 7 post from her blog, Patribotics, boasting an exclusive that Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner will all be indicted. This report is so exclusive that no reputable news organizations have reported it yet, but Menschs post confidently attributes it to multiple sources with links to the intelligence communities of more than one five eyes nation. (Mensch is best known for 2017 exclusive reporting that the Marshal of the Supreme Court had spoken with Trump about his supposedly impending impeachment.) Advertisement Another crucial member of the paranoid left, Eric Garland, tweeted after the reports delivery on Friday afternoon that he was about to roll with fun stuff. Garland is best known for a wide-ranging 127-tweet thread on Russian influence in America anchored by the phrase Time for some game theory, so he knows from fun stuff. Unfortunately, he now saves most of his tweets for a troll-free, disinformation-free locked Twitter account called Game Theory Today, which you can only access for $10 a month. His views on the report remain known only to his 543 subscribers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seth Abramson, a University of New Hampshire writing professor, tweeted three days ago that he was embarking on a Twitter break to finish his book, Proof of Conspiracy. But a higher duty called, and Abramson returned to post a 51-tweet essay on the report on Friday afternoon. The thread starts sensibly enough, with a reminder that Muellers mandate was capacious, and his offices work is not over. By the 15th tweet, he begins darkly alluding to how some in the media decidedI do not know why to associate only certain kinds of collusion cases with Mueller. He then imagines a scenario where Roger Stone flips. He also talks at length about the difference between 90 percent proof of collusion versus 81 percent versus 69. And he finishes off, naturally, with another plug for his book and an assurance to his followers that his hundreds of hours of professional research leave no doubt for me that Trump has acted criminally. And he may be right. But why wait a few more days for more concrete information from Muellers office when youve got a brand to build and legions of followers to fill with anxious hope? Charlottesville, Virginia, police arrested and charged a 17-year-old boy on Friday in connection with racist threats that warned of an ethnic cleansing and caused the city to close its schools Thursday and Friday, according to police. The suspect is a resident of the county but not the city, according to a statement from the Charlottesville school system superintendent, and he is not enrolled in the Charlottesville school system. He is being charged as a juvenile with the felony charge of making threats to commit serious bodily harm on school property and a misdemeanor charge of harassment by computer, Charlottesville Police Chief RaShall Brackney told reporters at a press conference Friday. Advertisement The threat, which used racist language against black and Latino students, was posted on Wednesday on the online message board 4chan. The post told white students to stay home and promised an ethnic cleansing at Charlottesville High School on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That post resulted in the school system closing all nine of its schools Thursday, affecting 4,300 students. The school system that night announced that based on extensive conversations with law enforcement, it would continue to keep the school closed the next day. I find it particularly troubling that a person who is not part of our Charlottesville City Schools community would make such a hurtful and divisive threat under the guise of being a CHS student, superintendent Rosa Atkins said in the statement. Since August 2017, we have made concerted efforts to have difficult conversations around race and to build trust and relationships. This comment attempted to undermine our community. Advertisement Advertisement In her statement, Atkins acknowledged the wounds Charlottesville carries from the Unite the Right white nationalist rally that captured national attention in August 2017 and led to the killing of 32-year-old Heather Heyer. James Alex Fields Jr., the avowed neo-Nazi who killed Heyer and injured 19 others when he drove into a crowd at the protest, was found guilty in December of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. In an apparently unrelated incident Friday, police in Albemarle County, Virginia, arrested a teenager for threatening to carry out a shooting at Albemarle High School, just a few miles away from Charlottesville High School, according to NBC News. That teenager was charged with one felony count of threats of death or bodily injury. 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. AciremaI get it. A familiar country where everything has gone backward. Its easy to recognize the feeling. Fake news, alternative factswere out on a blasted heath where the comforting tracks have suddenly gone blurry and hard to see. Theres a mighty sense of cosmic irony here. We spent the last generation or so getting used to the notion of postmodernity, with its relativism and competing narratives. But the conventional criticism was that what we were talking about was a theory advanced by people detached from reality and huddling in one extreme of the imagined political spectrum. Irony, I say, when the theory proves to be an accurate empirical description of political and cultural realities and practices taken to the extreme of effectiveness by folk from a very different point on that spectrum, folk who pride themselves on their hardheaded realism. Nietzsches dead God must be turning over in his grave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes, its true that there are no true stories. Human beings are story-making creatures, but no story can possibly be better that an edited, digested, spin-doctored version of events in we might still call the real world. The real story makers, the ones who give us our professed fictions, know that well and take full advantage of the techniques and the conveniences of their craft, the better to point us toward thoughts we would not come to so easily otherwise. So it is with Louisa Halls The Arisen, where whispers and breaths of sexual tension and ambiguity make sure that we know from the outset we are in a space of disorientation. The story that unfolds can be simple and straightforward in one way, where the unsettlement can come from the context and prepare us for an ending that leaves us turned backward. Advertisement Advertisement And the story maker can imagine as much of her world as she likes, then use as much of the real world as it suits her. So we can believealmostin the dystopian world of relocated authority and find ourselves twisted around by facts seized and weaponized and held maddeningly out of reach. Let each reader make of the story what she will. But Of course there are facts. Mary Bradfords diary is full of them. But we arent sure what they arewhich things in her diary are facts and which are not. Yet its a fact that theyre all in her diary. What I mean to say is that facts are what and how we make them. Human beings are fact-making animals, just as we are toolmakers. Facts are the tools of the brain, useful, destructive, creative, reliable, unreliableall depending on the human beings who use them and what they use them for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arisen is a fantasy riff on a possible world in which, perversely, human beings have become so enamored of facts-as-things that they have forgotten how to make them and how to use them. This story feels like a fragment in some epic science fiction construct like Dune or Foundation, but Im not sure I need to read any more. Its not going to end well. Facts will become brittle and useless, good for nothing but to be used as clubs to hurt other people with. Libraries, now. Libraries are fact factoriesamong other things. Oh yes, they are also fantasy factories and inspiration factories and really good placesif furnished properlyto take a nap. I know a university library with a large reading room and large green leather overstuffed sofas and chairs in which the brightest minds of the past half-dozen generations have lost consciousness with amazing regularity and reliability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But they are also fact factories. They are places where shrewd custodians keep watch on the constitution of knowledge by making sure that the right things, the good stuff, all come together and are findableand are found. And people who care about facts come to make them for themselves. Find yourself in a library and look around at the least prepossessing people therethe nervous procrastinating students, the dozing and distracted community patrons. Even they know what a library is and what its for, and if they fail to use it for the best, their presence indicates still their respect. (One of the most remarkable things about libraries is how easy it is to keep order, even with the worst of patrons at the worst of times.) The Arisen and its alternate university show us all these truths by showing us people made vulnerable by their struggle to find their footing in an environment that purports to be fact-made but in fact is destroying the capacity to make any facts at all. The contemporaryalmost momentaryresonance of the story is obvious. The moralwell, its a familiar tale. Be careful what you ask for: You might get it. Hang on to your libraries. Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society. As the Brexit process lumbers on, the British seem disinclined to take heed of anyones views. But Slovakia could offer some advice and even solace. News: Receive favorite authors articles by email. Try the new feature and turn on the subscription. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled The first lesson is: dont take the European Union too seriously. Slovaks gladly accept the financial benefits and personal freedoms that flow from membership all the while remaining sceptical of its aims and institutions. A poll conducted by the Focus polling agency for the European Commission office in Slovakia in February found that most people wanted the EU to act in every area they were asked about including an astonishing 80 percent who thought the EU should create joint armed forces to protect the country. Read also: Read also: EC: Slovakia lags in several fields Read more The EUs representative in Slovakia, Ladislav Miko, expressed some bewilderment: On one hand, there's a general debate to the effect that the [European] Union is interfering in everything and that it shouldnt. But when you ask what it should do, in every case a majority agreed that the EU should do something in that area, he told the TASR newswire. But given that the workings of the European Union make little sense to most people, why should they feel under any obligation to be consistent in return? Northern Illinois University The Northern Illinois University MBA program offers a degree in as little as one year through classes that meet two evenings per week. In order to be admitted, students will need a grade point average of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, students usually have a minimum of three to five years of business experience, as well as a bachelor's degree in order to be considered. Transcripts will be reviewed for admittance, and candidates that have a non-business undergraduate degree will need to complete the required prerequisite courses, which can be completed online. Total number of credits for the MBA may vary depending on prerequisites needed; however, phase two of the program requires at least 30 credits. Study abroad may be an option in this program. Students must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 throughout their graduate coursework in order to graduate. Notre Dame University Students enrolled at Notre Dame University's Mendoza College of Business generally have a business background and are looking to accelerate their career. This is a full-time program that is intensive, requires a high level of commitment, and begins during the summer semester. With an average class size of 43 students, the small program size and personal attention may be appealing. An official GMAT or GRE score is required for admission into this program. Students have the opportunity to explore networking strategies, business analytics, and financial accounting throughout the required coursework, along with taking part in a global experience. Within one year, students will be required to complete 46 credit hours in order to graduate with their degree. University of Illinois at Chicago The Liautaud Graduate School of Business at the University of Illinois at Chicago offers a full-time accelerated MBA program with classes on campus during the day. The one-year program begins in the fall semester and is 54 credits in length, with 26 of those credit as core curriculum and 28 credits worth of electives. MBA applicants to the Liautaud Graduate School of Business are expected to have at least two years of business-related work experience after earning a four-year bachelor degree in order to be considered. A few featured courses within this MBA program include Improv and Leadership, Web Analytics, and Social Entrepreneurs Leading Change. Study abroad may be available as an option. Northwestern University The one-year MBA program at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management begins in June and requires a student to complete 15.5 credits in order to receive an MBA degree. There are prerequisites to the Kellogg MBA program that must be completed before a student can begin in June. While many undergraduate business degrees will help a student bypass these prerequisites, the Kellogg School will also provide a student with a chance to take those courses ahead of time. What makes the one-year MBA program at Kellogg stand out from many accelerated programs is that it allows students to skip the core courses, and instead, focus on choosing from over 200 electives that speak to their career choices. Concordia University Chicago Concordia University Chicago offers a one-year classroom or online MBA program so that students can choose the format which best suits their needs. Each MBA course within the program will culminate into one Signature Project that showcases the various skills and accomplishments that the student has completed throughout his or her coursework. The Signature Project will also be provided to the student as a Business e-Folio, which can be used when applying for future career opportunities. A total of 12 courses are required, to be completed during three semesters. For the classroom program, courses meet during the day, two days a week. This school is located about ten miles from Chicago's city center, in River Forest. Enrolling in a one-year MBA program gives students the opportunity to accelerate their studies and earn a degree much faster than a traditional MBA program. The Chicago area offers a wide variety of fast-track MBA programs that have many of the same admission requirements and vary in credits required, class availability, and other special features. Scientists argue for more comprehensive studies of Cascade volcanoes CORVALLIS, Ore. - The string of volcanoes in the Cascades Arc, ranging from California's Mt. Lassen in the south to Washington's Mt. Baker in the north, have been studied by geologists and volcanologists for over a century. Spurred on by spectacular events such as the eruption of Mount Lassen in 1915 and Mount St. Helens in 1980, scientists have studied most of the Cascade volcanoes in detail, seeking to work out where the magma that erupts comes from and what future eruptions might look like. However, mysteries still remain about why nearby volcanoes often have radically different histories of eruption or erupt different types of magma. Now scientists would like to find out why - both for the Cascades and for other volcanic ranges. In a perspective essay published today (March 22) in Nature Communications, scientists argue for more "synthesis" research looking at the big picture of volcanology to complement myriad research efforts looking at single volcanoes. "The study of volcanoes is fascinating in detail, and it has largely been focused on research into individual volcanoes rather than the bigger picture," said Adam Kent, a volcano expert at Oregon State University and a co-author on the essay. "We now have the insight and data to go beyond looking at just Mount St. Helens and other well-known volcanoes. We can take a step back and ask why is St. Helens different from Mount Adams, why is that different from Mount Hood?" The study takes a novel approach to this topic. "One way to do this is to consider the heat it took to create each of the volcanoes in the Cascades Arc, for example, and also compare this to the local seismic wave speeds and heat flow within the crust, Kent said. "Linking these diverse data sources together this way gives us a better glimpse into the past, but offer some guidance on what we might expect in the future." The need for studying volcanoes more thoroughly is simple, noted Christy Till of Arizona State University, lead author of the Nature Communications essay. Worldwide almost a billion people live in areas at risk from volcanic eruptions, 90 percent of which live in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire. The subduction of the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate beneath the North American plate is the ultimate driver for the formation of the Cascade Range, as well as many of the earthquakes the Northwest has experienced. Subduction results in deep melting of the Earth's mantle, and the magma then heads upward towards the crust and surface, eventually reaching the surface to produce volcanoes. But there are differences among the volcanoes, the researchers note, including in the north and south of the Cascade Range. "The volcanoes in the north stand out because they stand alone," Kent said. "In the south, you also have recognizable peaks like the Three Sisters and Mount Jefferson, but you also many thousands of smaller volcanoes like Lava Butte and those in the McKenzie Pass area in between. Our work suggests that, together with the larger volcanoes, these small centers require almost twice the amount of magma being input into the crust in the southern part of the Cascade Range." Why is that important? "If you live around a volcano, you have to be prepared for hazards and the hazards are different with each different type of volcano," Kent said. "The northern Cascades are likely to have eruptions in the future, but we know where they'll probably be - at the larger stratovolcanoes like Mount Rainier, Mount Baker and Glacier Peak. In the south the larger volcanoes might also have eruptions, but then we have these large fields of smaller - so called 'monogenetic' volcanoes. For these it is harder to pinpoint where future eruptions will occur." The field of volcanology has progressed quite a bit, the researchers acknowledge, and the need now exists to integrate some of the methodology of individual detailed studies to give a more comprehensive look at the entire volcanic system. The past is the best informer of the future. "If you look at the geology of a volcano, you can tell what kind of eruption is most likely to happen," Kent said. "Mount Hood, for example, is known to have had quite small eruptions in the past, and the impact of these is mostly quite local. Crater Lake, on the other hand, spread ash across much of the contiguous United States. "What we would like to know is why one volcano turns out to be a Mount Hood while another develops into a Crater Lake, with a very different history of eruptions. This requires us to think about the data that we have in new ways." The 1980 eruption of Mt. St. Helens was a wake-up call to the threat of volcanoes in the continental United States, and though noteworthy, its eruption was relatively minor. The amount of magma involved in the eruption was estimated to be 1 kilometer cubed (enough to fill about 400,000 Olympic swimming pools), whereas the eruption of Mt. Mazama 6,000 years ago that created Crater Lake was 50 km cubed, or 50 times as great. The researchers say the process of building and tearing down volcanoes continues today, though it is difficult to observe on a day-to-day basis. "If you could watch a time-lapse camera over millions of years, you would see volcanoes building up slowly, and then eroding fairly quickly," said Kent, who is in OSU's College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences. "Sometimes, both are happening at once." Which of the Cascades is most likely to erupt? The smart money is on Mount St. Helens, because of its recent activity, but many of the volcanoes are still considered active. "I can tell you unequivocally that Mount Hood will erupt in the future," Kent said. "I just can't tell you when." For the record, Kent said the odds of Mt. Hood erupting in the next 30 to 50 years are less than 5 percent. ### This story has been published on: 2019-03-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. ABC News (WASHINGTON) -- Special counsel Robert Mueller's much-anticipated report the product of nearly two years of investigation will not include any further indictments, according to a senior Department of Justice official. The report was handed to the Justice Department for Attorney General Bill Barrs review, and Congress has been notified of the transfer late Friday afternoon, according to a Justice Department spokeswoman. According to federal regulations, the special counsel's final report should be "a confidential report explaining the prosecution or declination decisions reached by the Special Counsel." After reviewing Mueller's report, Barr will then send what he has described as his own "report" on the Mueller investigation to the top Democrats and Republicans on the House and Senate judiciary committees. Barr has promised to be as transparent as possible, but it's unclear how extensive or detailed Barr's own "report" to Congress will be. In a letter to the leaders of the House and Senate Judiciary committees, Barr wrote that he is reviewing the report and anticipates that he "may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." He continued that, separately, he intends to "consult with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Special Counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law." Sources who have spoken to the president told ABC News that Trump's initial reaction to Fridays news was that he's glad its over." "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders tweeted on Friday afternoon. Mueller and his team investigated how far the Kremlin went to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, including trying to determine whether any Americans may have helped those efforts. At the heart of Muellers probe were two Russian operations: the spread of disinformation on social media, and the release of thousands of sensitive emails stolen by hackers from the Democratic National Committee and other Democratic targets. Muellers team has charged 25 Russian nationals and three foreign companies for their alleged role in those operations. In appointing a special counsel to investigate, however, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein also directed Mueller to look into allegations of possible coordination between Russian operatives and associates of President Donald Trump. Over and over again, Trump and his Republican allies have derided the investigation as a witch hunt. But Rosenstein, FBI Director Chris Wray and now-attorney general William Barr have each explicitly disputed that description. We follow the rule of law, Rosenstein insisted last year. [And] when we confront foreign interference in American elections, its important for us to avoid thinking politically as Republicans or Democrats and instead to think patriotically as Americans. While looking into allegations of coordination with Trumps 2016 campaign, Mueller did find that a campaign adviser knew early on from a Russian operative that the Kremlin had compiled dirt on Hillary Clinton, and recent court filings said Trumps campaign repeatedly tried to elicit information about upcoming releases of Clinton-related documents stolen from the DNC and others. In court filings, Mueller also documented how Trumps personal business sought real estate deals in Moscow even after Trump became the Republican nominee for president, and documented how while the Obama administration was still in the White House senior members of Trumps national security team tried to influence official actions taken by Russia. According to federal prosecutors, Mueller also found that Trumps associates routinely lied to them about all of it. At least four Trump associates, including Trumps former national security adviser Michael Flynn, have pleaded guilty to lying to federal agents during the Russia-related investigation. Another Trump associate, the presidents former attorney Michael Cohen, has pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about Trumps business dealings in Moscow. And former Trump adviser Roger Stone has been charged with lying to Congress about his alleged role in tracking information stolen from Democrats during the 2016 campaign. The investigation has identified 199 different criminal acts, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York, noted during a recent House hearing. So lets be clear: The investigation into Russias attack on our democracy is not a witch hunt, its not a fishing expedition, its not a hoax, its not a lynch mob. Its a national security imperative. Muellers investigation grew out of a probe the FBI launched in late July 2016. By then, the FBI was already scrutinizing Trump campaign manager Paul Manaforts business dealings with pro-Russian officials in Ukraine dealings that have since landed Manafort in jail. And the FBI was keeping tabs on Trump adviser Carter Page, who was previously targeted for recruitment by Russian spies and had raised eyebrows with a trip to Moscow in mid-July 2016. But claims by Trump adviser George Papadopoulos that the Russians were touting dirt on Clinton really set off alarms inside the FBI. If any Americans were part of helping the Russians [attack] us, that is a very big deal, James Comey, who was FBI director at the time, later told lawmakers. Several weeks after formally launching the Russia probe, counterintelligence agents leading the investigation in Washington received a so-called dossier, which had been compiled at the behest of Democrats and detailed uncorroborated allegations of coordination between Trumps campaign and the Kremlin. Some of the allegations involved Page, who was already on the FBIs radar, so agents began secretly intercepting his communications. Page has never been charged with any crimes. The wide-ranging investigation continued even after Trump took office. After Jeff Sessions became attorney general, he recused himself from oversight of the FBIs Russia-related probe, citing his previous advocacy for Trump on the campaign trail. Rosenstein subsequently assumed oversight of the investigation. And then Trump shocked the federal law enforcement community: He fired Comey. The move prompted Rosenstein to appoint Mueller to take over the whole matter, including a review of whether Comey's firing and other actions meant Trump improperly tried to obstruct the probe. Comey later alleged that in a private meeting with Trump before his removal, the president directed Comey to let [Flynn] go. Mueller has not released any evidence suggesting Trump committed a crime related to Russian efforts. However, Mueller did uncover evidence of other possible crimes and referred those cases to other federal prosecutors. The U.S. Attorneys Office in Manhattan ended up tying Trump to federal campaign violations, alleging that in the midst of the 2016 presidential campaign Trump personally directed Cohen to silence two woman claiming affairs with Trump by making illegal payments to them. Cohen has pleaded guilty for his role in the matter, but no other charges have been filed. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. The new ankle exoskeleton design integrates into the shoe and under clothing. Credit: Matthew Yandell A new lightweight, low-profile and inexpensive ankle exoskeleton could be widely used among elderly people, those with impaired lower-leg muscle strength and workers whose jobs require substantial walking or running. Developed by Vanderbilt mechanical engineers, the device is believed to be the first ankle exoskeleton that could be worn under clothes without restricting motion. It does not require additional components such as batteries or actuators carried on the back or waist. The study, published online by IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems & Rehabilitation Engineering, builds on a successful and widely cited ankle exoskeleton concept from other researchers in 2015. "We've shown how an unpowered ankle exoskeleton could be redesigned to fit under clothing and inside/under shoes so it more seamlessly integrates into daily life," said Matt Yandell, a mechanical engineering Ph.D. student and lead author of the study. In a significant design advancement, the team invented an unpowered friction clutch mechanism that fits under the foot or shoe and is no thicker than a typical shoe insole. The complete device, which includes a soft shank sleeve and assistive spring, weighs just over one pound. The unpowered ankle exoskeleton costs less than $100 to fabricate, without factoring in optimized design for manufacturing and economies of scale. "Our design is lightweight, low profile, quiet, uses no motor or batteries, it is low cost to manufacture, and naturally adapts to different walking speeds to assist the ankle muscles," said Karl Zelik, assistant professor of mechanical engineering and senior author on the study. Zelik will be presenting this work next week at the Wearable Robotics Association Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The potential applications are broad, from helping aging people stay active to assisting recreational walkers, hikers or runners, he said. "It could also help reduce fatigue in occupations that involve lots of walking, such as postal and warehouse workers, and soldiers in the field," Zelik said. Joshua Tacca, BE'18, also is a co-author. He is now a graduate student in the Integrative Physiology Department at the University of Colorado-Boulder. Several other Vanderbilt undergraduate engineering students also contributed to the device design and pilot testing. More information: Matthew B. Yandell et al, Design of a Low Profile, Unpowered Ankle Exoskeleton That Fits Under Clothes: Overcoming Practical Barriers to Widespread Societal Adoption, IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering (2019). Matthew B. Yandell et al, Design of a Low Profile, Unpowered Ankle Exoskeleton That Fits Under Clothes: Overcoming Practical Barriers to Widespread Societal Adoption,(2019). DOI: 10.1109/TNSRE.2019.2904924 Investigators from McAfee's advanced threat research unit, working with partners at Coveware, have reevaluated hasty attributions of Ryuk ransomware to North Korea and have explored the inner workings of the threat. John Fokker is head of cyber investigations in McAfee's Advanced Threat research unit. He join us to share their findings. The original research can be found here: The UN Secretary-General has announced in a recent report that the budget of the UN mission in the Sahara, MINURSO, will be increased by 7.6 percent to improve ground and air surveillance operations conducted by the mission. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres who also called on MINURSO observers to be more vigilant, has closed the debate on reducing the missions mandate in the Moroccan Sahara, stressing the need for it to remain operational at all times. The increase of observation flights to 1,600 hours from nine areas monitored by the UN mission coincides with the specter of an armed rebellion within the Polisario, comments Moroccan news outlet le360, which reported the budget increase. Inspection of headquarters and military units requires the use of three helicopters, each of which performs an average of 44.33- hour flights per month. Guterres said that the MINURSO budget, for the period from June 2019 to June 2020, will increase significantly. In his new report, he asserts that the UN mission and its military observers must investigate all cease-fire violations reported by either party to the conflict. The UN Secretary-General emphasized the need to monitor, by air and land, the whole region by focusing on priority areas. He noted that mobile patrols of UN military controllers needed for the task will have to make 832 contact visits in the districts of the military forces of both parties. Each visiting group will be made up of four military members who will conduct four weekly checks during 52 weeks. Local daily Assabah reported on Friday (March 22), that the UN Secretary-General said the MINURSO budget should reach, in June 2020, a global amount of $56,369,400, not including aid and voluntary contributions amounting to $519,000. The budget will cover the salaries of 818 military observers, 27 contingents, 12 police officers, 82 international civil servants, 163 national civil servants as well as 18 volunteers and 10 civil servants seconded to the mission by the governments. The Missions planned budget shows a significant increase in contributions of 7.6 per cent compared to last year. The increase also shows that the MINURSO continues to accomplish its mission, implementing the UN decisions and ensuring respect for the ceasefire in the Moroccan Sahara. The current mandate of the MINURSO will end on April 30, but Antonio Guterress strong call for the mobilization of military observers means that the Security Council will surely extend the mandate, Assabah said, adding that the MINURSO will therefore continue to fulfil its task until a durable and consensual solution to the Moroccan Sahara issue is found. Looking for the vulture assist with Neolithic burials 1 year ago 15 hours ago 3 Dependable Dow Stocks to Buy in December Dow Jones Stocks Can Offer Dependable Long-Term Returns Adding components of the Dow Jones Industrial Average to your investing strategy certainly comes with its fair share of positives. Since the companies that make up this widely-recognized stock market index are some of the worlds best businesses, investors know they are getting quality by focusing on the Dow. Read Article King Mohammed VI of Morocco ordered the shipment of an urgent humanitarian aid to Mozambique where a massive flood destroyed swathes of lands leaving victims and considerable damage to fields and infrastructure. The 39 tons of aid is composed mainly of tents, blankets and foodstuff that will be carried by the Royal Armed Forces, the foreign ministry said in a statement. The gesture comes in response to international calls for support to Mozambique and falls in line with Moroccos solidarity with African nations, the ministry said. The floods propelled by Cyclone Idai affected Mozambique mostly but also hit other southern African countries like Zimbabwe, and Malawi last week. The floods created an inland ocean near the Mozambique coastal city of Beira destroying homes and natural habitat. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimates that at least 242 people have died and some 1,500 have been injured while 65,000 people are living in shelters. More than 17,400 homes have been destroyed by the storm. Beira, a city with a population of 400,000, continues to be without power and is only accessible by air and sea. Humanitarian agencies have raised alerts over hygiene and safe drinking water needs eight days after cyclone Idai lashed central Mozambique as some cholera cases are reported in Beira. Russia has surprisingly shied away from supporting the authoritarian status quo in Algeria as it seeks to secure its long term interest in the North African country, notably in terms of armament contracts. It was not a coincidence that Deputy Prime Minister Ramtane Lamamra paid his first international visit to white wash the regime to Moscow earlier this month. But to his disappointment Moscow fell short of showing its outright support for Bouteflikas proposal to quell protests. The recent events in Algeria form part of the countrys domestic affairs, and Russia hopes that the republic will resolve its issues in a constructive way, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated on March 15. Facing pressure from the street, Algerian president gave up on his fifth term bid and promised constitutional reform but stopped short of stepping down, defacto extending his fourth term, a move that further irked protesters who staged yet Friday (March 22) one of the most spectacular protests in the capital calling for the President and the regime to step down and for a new Algerian republic. Russias cautious reaction to unrest in Algeria reflects Moscows desire to maintain long-term influence in Algeria, regardless of the outcome of the protests, a Policy brief published by Carnegie said. The Russians are aware that the days of Bouteflika and his allies are numbered and are acting cautiously to keep good ties with the upcoming leaders. Russias supreme goal is to keep Algeria dependent on Russian weaponry. From 2014-2018, Russia was Algerias top arms supplier, providing 66% of Algerias armament imports. Thats no small figure, as Algeria was the worlds fifth-largest weapons importer during that period. For Moscow, Algeria has been a backer of its anti-Arab Spring stances. Algiers showed support for Moscow in Libya and Syria. Russias approach will allow it to preserve its arms contracts and pursue lucrative investment opportunities, regardless of who holds power in Algeria although Moscow has apprehension towards the ideology of the opposition, which may lean towards the EU or the US, two sides that have openly supported the popular protests. President Ali Bongo Ondimba of Gabon headed Saturday for his home country after he spent about three months in Morocco for medical rehabilitation and convalescence. President Ali Bongo has been receiving medical treatment in Morocco since December at the invitation of King Mohammed VI. The Gabonese head of state had suffered a stroke while attending an investment summit in Saudi Arabia in October last year. Although the military hospital in Rabat where had been treated discharged him, the African leader has remained in the kingdom for convalescence. During this period, he made short trips to his home country in January to attend the inauguration of a new cabinet and in February to chair a cabinet meeting and announce some appointments. Bongo, 59, came to power in Gabon in elections held following the death of his father, Omar Bongo, in 2009, who had ruled the country for 41 years. He won another term in office in 2016 in controversial elections with the European Union (UE) saying the results were cooked. Issues of concern to people who live in the west: property rights, water rights, endangered species, livestock grazing, energy production, wilderness and western agriculture. Plus a few items on western history, western literature and the sport of rodeo... Frank DuBois served as the NM Secretary of Agriculture from 1988 to 2003. DuBois is a former legislative assistant to a U.S. Senator, a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Interior, and is the founder of the DuBois Rodeo Scholarship. Emerging from the shadows at last. Photo: Zach Gibson/Bloomberg via Getty Images At long last, Special Counsel Robert Mueller has delivered his feverishly anticipated report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election to the Department of Justice. Details on the contents of the report are scarce, but multiple sources report that Mueller is not seeking any further indictments a good sign for President Trump. Intelligencer staffers Jonathan Chait, Benjamin Hart, and Ed Kilgore chewed over their initial reactions to the report, and what might come next. This chat ran in the Daily Intelligencer newsletter, which combines a digest of the stories you care about with exclusive political commentary that you wont find on the website. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Terms & Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. Ben: It finally happened: Robert Mueller has delivered his report. Nobody knows whats in it yet, but Barr says he could brief Congress on its contents as early as this weekend. What are your initial reaction to this (possibly) seismic news? Ed: Dropping it on the weekend is a cruel confirmation of the 24/7 Trump news cycle. Ben: Yes, Mueller must hate the media as much as Trump does, with this timing. Jon: If Congress is briefed this weekend, news should leak very soon. Ed: Jons right: once any information is in congressional hands, it will be a competitive leak-a-thon. Jon: Barrs letter seems to indicate hell disclose what he can. Ben: What do you make of Barrs assertion that he might announce the principle conclusions very soon? Is this a hint that hes ready to sing no collusion from the rooftops? Ed: So far no DoJWhite House tension, for what thats worth. Jon: Perhaps? I dont even have a firm grasp on Barrs real motives for taking this job if hes a Trump hack or a Mueller ally, or something in between. Ben: We also hear that the report is very comprehensive. Ed: So was the Bible. So was Finnegans Wake. Ben: Jon, do you agree with that? Jon: Sounds correct, I cant imagine a different possibility Ben: Multiple sources are now reporting that Mueller is recommending no further indictments. What does that tell us? Jon: It certainly seems to point toward an anticlimactic outcome. Ed: Since presumably there are people who (unlike Trump) can be indicted for helping him with collusion and/or obstruction, the fact that they likely wont be is a pretty good thing for Trump. Jon: Its strange, though, given how many crimes have been clearly hinted at to date Ben: This fits with the rising tide of chatter in the last few days, from White House sources and Democrats alike, predicting that the report will end up being quite favorable to Trump relatively speaking. Jon: Its interesting that Trump has said he wants to release everything, because that is the opposite of the position Democrats expected him to take Ed: Well, Republicans have long argued that if theres no collusion, theres no obstruction of justice, either. Thats not true from a legal point of view, but theyll certainly make that argument. Jon: Right, you can argue that if they dont find collusion, its because Trump obstructed the investigation. Thats usually why people obstruct justice. Ben: Also, if its just obstruction of justice, will anyone care all that much? Ed: As Ive pointed out, nobody doubted the underlying crime in Watergate, which separated it from the Lewinsky scandal. So obstruction charges stuck in the first case, but not the second. Ben: Right if its obstruction plus a new mountain of circumstantial evidence, that might be different. Ed: Then theres the whole expectations issue with Mueller, with all the hopes from Democrats that his report would tighten a noose around Trumps neck. So often, we talk about people moving to Luxembourg and discovering the many delights of living in a smaller country. But what about those who do leave? Do you end up pining for anything? Speaking from personal experience, moving away from the country you grew up can sometimes be a relieving experience, but also give you pangs of homesickness. Whilst I definitely needed a change of scenery after spending my first 20 years in Luxembourg, there are things I look back and miss. These can range from the smallest, most innocuous things to aspects that are emblematic of the Grand Duchy at large. 1. Good bread and pastries. This is obviously a byproduct of moving to the United Kingdom, but I miss being able to have good bread as a given in supermarkets, rather than plastic-packaged bread that never goes mouldy (what is in those things ?!) As an aside, I miss Boxemannchen, sweet pretzels, and more. 1.1. As a specific subsection, Luxembourgish eclairs filled with custard. Whipped cream does not make a sufficient substitute. Don't they make you salivate?! 2. The peace and quiet of Findel airport. Hear me out here - as someone who travels to and from the Grand Duchy a lot, no airport is quite like Luxembourg's airport. It's small, you get through security quickly, and best of all - nobody gets all in your space. Having flown from Luxembourg to connect at Heathrow for five hours, the only place I've found where you don't have people all up in your space at Heathrow are the loos. 3. The National Day/Grand Duke's birthday* celebrations. Whilst I am not the most patriotic of individuals, I do really enjoy the celebrations on the eve of National Day, 22 June. Whether you brave the masses and go into Luxembourg City or stick to your local municipal celebrations, I've found this to be one of the highlights of living in Luxembourg. Whilst fireworks are dropping in popularity, the festive atmosphere is one that is well worth soaking in, alongside the traditional parade. * I personally dislike referring to this as the Grand Duke's birthday on the technicality that it is an official birthday and not Grand Duke Henri's actual birthday. kewl/ Pixabay 4. On the note of summer, Steinsel strawberries - the best strawberries you'll find. I came back from university one June with a friend and while we were in the area, we bought a punnet of strawberries as I had proclaimed they were the best. She agreed. 5. Being able to go into Luxembourg City and see at least one person you know. For some more introverted/socially awkward people, this can actually be a nightmare. Granted, I can sometimes not be in a social mood and don't want to see people, but upon reflection, sometimes it is nicer to always recognise someone when you're out and about. 6. Pizza. I know this is an incredibly food-centric article, but hey, Luxembourg's pizzas are wonderful? Due to the large Italian community that has established itself in Luxembourg, there is a wealth of pizzerias. And the pizzas are divine, thin-crusted, and not greasy. This is difficult to find in the UK and in France, for example. As my Italian best friend has ranted to me, French pizzerias put emmental on their pizzas - which is a massive no-no. Mozzarella is the only cheese appropriate for a pizza base. 7. Cheap public transport: this will become moot (or even better) once public transport is made free in 2020, but the cost of public transport in Luxembourg has always been incredibly reasonable. This is something anyone who has used the UK's railways can attest to - 4 and you can travel through the whole country for that day, if you so desired. As a teenager, having a Jumbo card was also incredibly useful. In the municipality I lived in, you would get 25 subsidised. Before the Jumbo card rose to 75, you could have unlimited travel for 25 a year. 8. A good old fest. Apple fest, strawberry fest, potato fest,... Luxembourgers love celebrating their produce and I sometimes fondly miss those small town festivals. Granted, I have mixed feelings about being awoken by the Hammelsmarsch... but you can definitely say it's a uniquely Luxembourgish experience! And if we're being honest, I'd rather hear that than the sound of bagpipes waking me up. 9. The markets. I love Luxembourg's Christmas markets, which seem more authentic than British ones. Granted, my fondness comes from having grown up going to the Christmas markets, but I also think the Christmas markets in Luxembourg manage to bustling without completely overwhelming. After all, they're no fun when they're too busy. The Octave market is equally enjoyable, even with the lack of mulled wine about! 10. The possibilities you have. Granted, if you desperately want a big city experience, then you can get a train to Paris or Brussels, but everything else seems to be really close by. You want to wander around the forests? Done. You want to go to a lake? Done. You want to explore the vineyards along the banks of the Moselle? Done. You want to go to Germany/France/Belgium? Also easily done. An old castle? Not only done, but several to choose from! Okay, there may not be a beach in close proximity, but there are plenty of options if you want to immerse yourself in nature and have a change of scenery. You can even go explore Luxembourg's many film locations. Vianden Castle. / YvonneH/ Pixabay This is by no means an exclusive list and I'm sure I will think of more. People who have moved away from Luxembourg, please let us know what you miss in the Facebook comments! -- Nathalie Lodhi is an editor and translator for RTL Today, who now lives in Edinburgh. The European project to compensate the unemployed in their last country of work moves forward. The European Parliament and ministers announced on Thursday afternoon that the project for social benefits reform for mobile workers in the EU is moving forward. In Luxembourg's case, cross-border workers will be entitled to compensation in the Grand Duchy rather than their home country. This is particularly complex given cross-border workers make up more than 45% of the Luxembourg workforce, with numbers of around 190,000. Last June, then Minister of Labour, Employment, and the Social and Solidarity Economy Nicolas Schmit estimated that the reform would lead to more than 10,000 additional claimants to Luxembourg accounts, almost double the current total (around 15,000 benefits claimants at the start of 2019). WHAT WILL CHANGE FOR WORKERS For cross-border workers who lose their employment, the rules will change. They will have to submit to Luxembourg benefits criteria, the duration and amount of which will be subject to change. For example, currently everyone requesting benefits in Luxembourg has to attend monthly meetings with the National Employment Agency (ADEM). The maximum duration for compensation in Luxembourg is 12 months, compared to 24 months in France and Germany (dependent on age and duration of contributions) and unlimited in Belgium. There will also be amendments to the maximum amount. Luxembourg applies a declining maximum of 80% of the gross salary earned for three months prior to unemployment. Belgium uses multiple decreasing levels, the last of which is unlimited and set at a fixed rate. France chooses the most advantageous calculation based on the reference wage, which comprises the gross salary of the last 12 months prior to unemployment. Finally, Germany calculates 60% of net income. The amounts vary per individual situation, taking into account dependants, income, and length of contribution. The reform has yet to be voted in and is set to come into force from 2021. Luxembourg will be given extra time to adapt and the reform will only come into force in 2026, thus receiving time to make preparations for the thousands of additional dossiers to be managed. On 20 March 2018 a jewellery shop in Luxembourg City was burgled, with the culprits found near Lyon by the next day. The accused hail from the area around Lyon and are therefore being sentenced in the local courts, said the Luxembourg public prosecution office on Friday. The case in question relates to the robbery of a watch shop in Luxembourg City last March. During the investigation it was discovered that the culprits had been intercepted the following day in the region of Lyon in France, originating from the area and with previous convictions. On 18 March 2019 the Luxembourg public prosecutor's office denounced the crime committed in the Luxembourg jurisdiction, with the suspects now being tried in Lyon for the acts committed. There was potential for 30 donations in 2018, according to Protransplant. Four people were saved last year thanks to organ donation, which highlights the need for increased donations. Protransplant, the non-profit organisation which promotes organ donation, shared a statement on Friday revealing that only seven organs were donated in Luxembourg in 2018, compared to nine in the previous year. Luxembourg belongs to the Eurotransplant area, eight countries which cooperate in international organ exchanges. The organisation blaming politics for the decrease in organ donation. According to the president of Protransplant, Jos Buerg, the laws regarding donation for the last year were massively unclear, Buerg dubbing them "wishy-washy". Hospitals are currently not obliged to designate a specific person with the power of attorney to make a decision regarding donation on behalf of a patient without brain function. Following the 1982 law, every patient in a prolonged vegetative state can become a donor unless they previously have specifically stated in writing that they do not want this. According to Buerg, this law is useful but is not always applied, resulting in a "non-assistance to persons in danger". Luxembourg's police have launched a new campaign against fraud artists and popular scams, hoping to raise awareness amongst the elderly in particular. The new awareness campaign is mainly oriented towards the elderly and designed to make Luxembourg's senior citizens feel safer. Around 400 cases of fraud are reported to police each year, ranging from fraud involving money to theft to fake policemen and various other tricks. Tim Pauly from the police's prevention unit explained that we must not underestimate the unrecorded cases. Often, people are deeply ashamed or just too embarrassed to report similar cases to police. If they lost substantial amounts of money, victims may refrain from even telling their family about their misfortune. RTL Tele Letzebuerg / Luc Rollmann RTL Tele Letzebuerg / Luc Rollmann RTL Tele Letzebuerg / Luc Rollmann RTL Tele Letzebuerg / Luc Rollmann 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. The police offer various services to help Luxembourg's elderly in particular, as they may be especially vulnerable to such scams. The police train specialised security advisers for the elderly, but other measures also exist: the initiative BeeSecure has been brought to life to, among other things, combat online fraud and raise awareness among the elderly of various other internet dangers. According to Jean-Marie Mousel, elderly people are slightly more likely to fall prey to online fraud. As examples, he cites deceptive emails or fraudulent lotteries. Scams on dating sites have also become increasingly frequent in recent years. Luxembourg's Ministry of Family Affairs is hopeful that the campaign will make it easier for potential victims to come forward rather than isolate themselves out of shame. The campaign, titled 'Dear Grandma, dear Grandpa - don't let yourself be scammed!', features a young girl and the caption "Even your granddaughter advises you to be careful against scam artists or fake police officers." The campaign advises people: The World Meteorological Day takes place once a year on 23 March - this year, under the slogan "The Sun, the Earth, and the Weather." According to the weather service of Luxembourg's agricultural administration, the duration of sunshine has been climbing in Luxembourg over the last years. Climatologist Andrew Ferrone explained how clouds are formed on a sunny day, even if the skies are blue in the morning. The phenomenon occurs when the sun's radiation gradually heats up the land and, in turn, also the air just above the earth. This triggers movements in the atmosphere and the warm air starts to rise. The rising air consequently begins to form clouds. This meteorological phenomenon can often be witnessed during summer - and is also the culprit behind summertime thunderstorms. Luxembourg's weather service collects data from various weather stations around the clock. You can follow these stations at agrimeteo.lu. At the weather stations, meteorologists measure how long and how strongly the sun shines . Over the last years, the weather stations have found that duration of sunshine is slowly increasing. Photovoltaics could therefore be an option in the Grand Duchy in the near future. In case you were wondering, photovoltaics refers to the conversion of light into electricity. The most popular photovoltaic systems employ solar panels that can, for example, be mounted on rooftops. However, photovoltaics are less efficient on excessively hot summer days. As a rule of thumb, May and June are the ideal months to use similar systems to convert sunshine into electricity. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images On Friday afternoon, a security officer delivered special counsel Robert Muellers final report to the office of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. Within its pages, there were no new indictments under seal, meaning that the nearly two-year investigation ended without the special counsel recommending that President Trump, or any of his family members, be charged with conspiracy or obstruction of justice. If thats a victory for the president, it was one that many Mueller watchers saw coming. Although Muellers findings are reportedly very comprehensive, Democrats in Congress were not anticipating a finale that would convince their Republican colleagues to agree to an impeachment process. Still, its likely that Trump will use the report as a weapon, boasting of his innocence in the immediate future while determining how to leverage the report for 2020. As the AP states, Trump could take the findings and run on them, rather than against them, by painting the special counsel as an example of failed government overreach and Trump himself as the victim who managed to prove his innocence. Its always been extremely unlikely that Trump would face a charge from Muellers team under Justice Department policy, a sitting president cannot be indicted. But the president may not be in the clear just yet: The Southern District of New York or other Department of Justice prosecutors could pick up on significant threads from the report and pursue them deep into the 2020 campaign. If the wrap-up feels anticlimactic, its worth revisiting what is already known. Six former Trump aides including his personal fixer, national security adviser, and former campaign manager have been indicted, convicted, or pleaded guilty to crimes ranging from conspiracy to defraud the United States to lying to Congress. Now that Mueller has delivered the report, Attorney General William Barr will consult the special counsel and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein to determine what information, beyond principal conclusions, he will send to lawmakers. In a letter to the leadership of the House and Senate Judiciary committees, Barr wrote that he may send the conclusions over as soon as this weekend. Barr will also determine how much of the report the public will eventually see, but as New Yorks Jonathan Chait suggests, If Congress is briefed this weekend, news should leak very soon. If Robert Mueller is indeed handing off his investigation without further indictments, others are waiting their turn. Photo: SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images Politics, punditry and human nature being as they are, the late-Friday news that special prosecutor Robert Muellers final report has been transmitted to the attorney general (and will be described in summary form to Congress very soon) has spurred a frenzy of speculation, and the first of many leaks (credible and otherwise). The most prominent detail is that Mueller isnt recommending any additional indictments in his probe of possible collusion with Russia by the Trump campaign or obstruction of justice by the president himself. If that is true, you can be sure that the president and his allies will gloat that even Robert Mueller admits that his investigation was a witch hunt producing nothing but fresh evidence that the president has been unjustly persecuted by rogue elements in the FBI and the Justice Department. Indeed, as the Washington Posts David Weigel notes, Republicans will soon try to decisively change the subject and turn the tables: Whos gonna be first with the now that Muellers work is complete, the time has come to investigate the FBIs 2016 probe of Hillary Clinton press release? Dave Weigel (@daveweigel) March 22, 2019 Even if the no more prosecutions reports are accurate, though, the presidents hardly out of the woods with respect to scandals involving his presidency, his campaign, or his personal business. The Mueller report could contain facts, leads and hints that not only cast doubt on the presidents integrity, but also give material to other, later prosecutions. Just because Mueller considers a certain batch of evidence not grounds for a prosecution on his own motion doesnt mean it might not create future legal and political jeopardy for Trump. Other prosecutors pursuing other angles could pick up on his findings. And to the extent the Justice Department doubts a sitting president can be indicted at all, the report could provide evidence that will sit, ticking like a time bomb, until he leaves office. Michael Cohens conviction for campaign finance violations is a potentially direct threat given Cohens allegations about the presidents personal involvement in hush payment to women with explosive charges of adultery against Trump that surfaced in 2016. But separate federal investigations of Trumps business dealings by the staff of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York are even more potentially deadly, and they involve matters well beyond the scope of the Mueller investigation, as Politico reported last month: Manhattan-based federal prosecutors can challenge Trump in ways Mueller cant. They have jurisdiction over the presidents political operation and businesses subjects that arent protected by executive privilege, a tool Trump is considering invoking to block portions of Muellers report. From a PR perspective, Trump has been unable to run the same playbook on SDNY that hes used to erode conservatives faith in Mueller, the former George W. Bush-appointed FBI director. Legal circles are also buzzing over whether SDNY might buck DOJ guidance and seek to indict a sitting president. The threat was highlighted when SDNY prosecutors ordered officials from Trumps inaugural committee to hand over donor and financial records. It was the latest aggressive move from an office that has launched investigations into the presidents company, former lawyer and campaign finance practices. New York prosecutors have even implicated Trump in a crime. Add it all up and the result is a spate of hard-to-stymie, legally perilous probes that appears on track to drag on well into Trumps 2020 reelection campaign. SDNY stands poised to carry on Muellers efforts whenever the special counsels office closes shop Then theres the possibility of state investigations into Trumps business and charitable operations, as the Washington Post recently explained: [T[he end of the federal investigation into the 2016 campaign clears the path for criminal charges in multiple states. That should worry the president and the people in his circle. Early in his investigation, Mueller was reportedly sharing information he had gathered with the then-attorney general of New York, Eric Schneiderman, regarding Paul Manafort and his money-laundering activities. The evidence-sharing suggested the state of New York had a potential interest in looking at conduct that violated both state and federal law. More recently, the New York Attorney General sued the Trump Foundation, alleging a shocking pattern of illegality in its use and accounting of charitable funds (the foundation was shut down in December), and the New Jersey attorney general issued a subpoena to Trumps campaign for the financial records of his inaugural fund. Although these are both civil actions, they could reveal violations of state criminal laws concerning tax and financial fraud by members of the Trump campaign or Trump Organization. Beyond all these ongoing legal threats to Trump and his interests, of course, anything Mueller provides in the way of hints of misconduct or crimes by the president and his circle could be followed up on in the wide-ranging investigations being undertaken by various House committees now that Democrats control them. Anything they ultimately produce could provide additional grist for federal and state prosecutors, present or future, and possibly, for those arguing the president is guilty of high crimes and misdemeanors justifying impeachment proceedings. All of the continuing sources of legal and political peril for the president will predictably lead to loud demands from the White House and the presidents congressional and media allies that all inquiries cease and desist now that Mueller has supposedly exonerated the president. That wont happen, but the spin wars over Muellers report will begin even before its details make their way in the public domain. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Terms & Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. Fueled by the desire to help young Vietnamese enter a globalized, professional environment, Le Dinh Hieu, 31, chose establishing a soft-skills course in Vietnam over a well-paid job abroad in order to give back to his homeland. Hieu received a full-ride to study overseas at the age of 18 and, after graduating with a degree in Economics, immediately being working for a prominent firm in the U.S. Despite his success, Hieu felt unfulfilled, and eventually chose to return to Vietnam, where he established G.A.P, an institute which provides local youth with the skills and training they need to stand on their own todays tech-based world. A meaningful life Hieu first found himself working as the institutes headmaster by pure coincidence. During his childhood, he would often eat the Vietnamese-style pudding from a local vendor near his house in Ho Chi Minh City. The lady who worked the stall would usually be accompanied by her young daughter, just a toddler at the time. After Hieu went abroad, finished studying, and returned to Vietnam, he learned that the little girl who was once at the sellers side was now 15 years old, pregnant, and unsure of the father. Hieu was thrown by the situation, and before long found himself working towards a solution to improve the lives of youth in the local community. He was further convinced to support change as he recalled a lesson he received back in the U.S., that regardless of social status, age, body condition, nor race, whoever is good enough to raise above, should be provided ample opportunity to do so. After the fateful encounter with the vendors daughter, Hieu returned to America to leave his job and say his goodbyes. His new life would be in Vietnam. Once back, he planned to found an institute dedicating to helping the young acquire soft skills and critical thinking. To secure a teaching location, he had to ask permission from existing language centers in Ho Chi Minh City, and finally managed to land a deal on his tenth attempt. The establishment allowed him the use of one of their rooms on weekends, free of cost. In the first six months, Hieu taught for free to attract attention and earn a reputation. Afterwards, some of the students parents suggested he collect tuition fees and began assisting him in procuring materials for the newfound institute. Emerging from hardship From such a humble starting point three years ago, G.A.P slowly grew. Today it boasts over 8,500 alumni. As its aim is to uplift all Vietnamese youth, Hieu tries to ensure that his courses are open to everyone. For two paying students, the institute accepts a third free of charge. Needy students or those with disabilities are also guaranteed free courses at G.A.P. Hieu also recruits his students to work for the institute and tours southern Vietnam to give inspirational speeches at various education facilities and encourage young people to find their own path. But for Hieu, G.A.P. still has a long way to go. The institute is working to persuade public schools in Vietnam to improve their extracurricular activities to better equip students with soft skills, but their recommendations often fall on deaf ears. Even worse, many underprivileged youngsters have refused to attend his courses, as they are convinced the education will do little to none to improve their situation. Though many approaches are closed off before it gets a chance to shine, Hieu never falters. Every time hardship comes to him, his mother, a musical teacher who turned deaf at the age of 30 becomes his beacon of light. Though plagued with her sudden disability, Hieu never once saw her cry, anguish, nor lash out. Once you are faced with obstacles, try to coexist with them, and ultimately overcome them with your remaining power, he said, citing the best quote of his mother. Asides from designing classroom projects, Hieu also sponsored construction of swimming pools, libraries, and other useful amenities for young people. Building audio libraries for the disadvantaged According to Hieu, one of his most advantageous point is to meet up with a lot of passionate, experienced educators back in Vietnam. From their foundation, Hieu carries on to inspire more students. In order to make his mission go viral, Hieu even created a Facebook page to attract netizens into the fray. At the moment, he is cooperating with a reputable corporation in Vietnam, to provide scholarship to some 300 outstanding senior high school students across the nation. But his current concern is to provide the disadvantaged nationwide with a set of visualized textbooks, so that they too can receive proper education just like anyone else. The G.A.P Institute was selected by the UNESCO Centre for Culture, Education, and Training Organization to be a strategic partner for the Talent Generation project, which helped connect 10,000 students and create jobs for about 1,000 students from universities nationwide. In 2016 Hieu made it onto the list of the 30 brightest stars under the age of 30 in Vietnam in different fields by Forbes. Besides G.A.P, he is also the founder of Hear.US.Now, a project designed to teach English and computing skills to deaf people. Hieus devotion to social activities earned him the 2019 Vietnam Outstanding Young Faces Award, a highly esteemed event from the Youth Union Central Committee, aimed at honoring outstanding youths under 35 years old from across the nation. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The official launch of the Vietnamese version of the book Cities for People written by the award-winning Danish architect Jan Gehl took place in Ho Chi Minh City on Friday. The event, co-organized by the Danish Embassy in Vietnam, architecture news hub Ashui and other partners, was designed as a meet-and-greet with participation of Vietnamese architects, urban planners and architecture enthusiasts. A similar book launch was held in Hanoi on Wednesday. Gehl spent the majority of Fridays event giving attendees a brief view of his book, as well as a peek at what cities for people look like. He showed the importance of people as a central factor in urban planning and design. What cities are for, if not for people? the author underlined. This is why in Cities for People one of his latest publications, the Danish architect does provide a detailed analysis of public spaces and their social dimension. According to Jan Gehl, a successful city is the one designed with good rooms for safe walking and biking, leading to a less sedentary life behind steering wheels and computer screens. After many translations in other languages, Vietnamese is the 33rd foreign language the book is available in. The 300-page work is vividly illustrated with over 700 photos and drawings collected from Gehls works around the globe. "Cities for People" has been translated into 34 languages and won various international awards, including the 2011 Environmental Design Research Association and Planetizen. Jan Gehi and the cover of the Vietnamese edition of his book are seen in this combined photo on Ashui's website. As a celebrated Danish architect and urban designer with more than 40 years of researching on the subject, Gehl has helped to transform urban environments around the world into city spaces that people can actually use and enjoy. Over the course of his career, he has published many books besides Cities for People, including Life between buildings, New City Spaces, Public Spaces Public Life, New City Life, How to study public life and most recently People Cities. Gehls books are also considered a typical work of preference for many Vietnamese architects with different examples very close to life in Vietnam. In 2009, Jan Gehl visited Vietnam and worked as an advisor for Hanoi authorities on a plan to improve public space in the capital city with pedestrian streets. Currently, the walking areas in Hanoi have gradually become one of the most-visited attractions of the city. Tuoi Tre News reporter (left) listens as author Jan Gehl speaks during their discussion after the book launch in Ho Chi Minh City on March 22, 2019. Photo: Bao Anh / Tuoi Tre News With the issue of Ho Chi Minh City planning in a long term raised by the audience at Fridays book launch, Gehl advised both urban planners and citizens to think about what they want their city to look like in the future. He was also questioned for his opinion upon the feasibility of planning on public spaces for walking and biking in the southern metropolis, to which he answered that he believed most of the important activities in one persons life are done while that person is on their feet, not on motorbikes or cars. Cities can change and we have to change too because of [the impact of] climate changes and resources declines, Gehl told Tuoi Tre News at the event, implying his encouragement for changes in the Vietnamese peoples living style for more walking and biking. In the next ten or 15 years, we wont have enough aids and resources to cover so much individual transportation, he said, suggesting a cut down on motorbikes and cars in the southern metropolis. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Twenty-one foreigners who have spent significant time in Vietnam have shared their experiences, thoughts, and impressions on the Southeast Asian country in a 20-story anthology published earlier this month. Chuyen nguoi Tay o xu Ta, or Stories from Westerners in Vietnam, is anthology of stories written by 21 foreigners who have lived or are living in Vietnam published in Vietnamese by Nha Nam Publishing House and The Gioi (World) Publishing House. While some of the authors have made Vietnam their permanent home, others spend only a few months a year in the country. But regardless of how long they spend in Vietnam each year, their background, personal story, or perspective, they all share one thing: a love for Vietnam. 21 authors Chuyen nguoi Tay o xu Ta is the final product of an initiative by Ho Chieu Xanh (Green Passport), a non-profit organization which encourages Vietnamese to travel abroad and expand their horizons. By giving local readers insight into different perspectives on their country, Ho Chieu Xanh hopes to help Vietnamese understand differences between Vietnamese and foreign cultures through the experiences. The project first began with a call for contributions, and there was no shortage of submissions. As the articles poured in, the books editors began to form a better idea of what foreigners were experiencing in different regions across the country. Over a year later, after collecting each story, translating the English submissions to Vietnamese and editing the submissions written in Vietnamese, Ho Chieu Xanh was finally ready to release its final product. It took a lot of effort, both mental and physical, for this book to be published, Sevinch Orujova Fagradinova, one of the books authors, said. I can say that this book is filled with heart and soul, she said. Luong Huynh Trong Nghia, the main coordinator of the project, said the organizations goal was to create something resembling a summary of foreign perspectives of Vietnam. While Vietnamese find nothing strange about their own country, many things are unfamiliar and wow the foreigners, Nghia elaborated. That was the inspiration of this project. One of the challenges the organization faced during the publication and editing process was guaranteeing the diversity among its authors the stories they told, according to Nghia. We had to check each authors background, where in Vietnam they are working, what their professions are, and what they think of Vietnam, Nghia said In the end, each story we received was a unique reflection of the authors personal views, Nghia said, adding that he and his team were all honored to be able to work on this project because all stories were outstanding and highly motivating. Timing was also a challenge as many of the authors are currently residing outside of Vietnam and time differences of several hours made it difficult to schedule meetings. I had to submit my article last April, almost a year ago, said Jose Maguery Barrera, a Mexican photographer. Readers come to the book presentation event to have their books signed. Photo: Ha My / Tuoi Tre News Being present at the book presentation event on March 17 in Ho Chi Minh City, Barrera added that the book took around 1.5 years to finish, and that it was not until today that he finally had a chance to meet many of the other authors. Most of the writers involved only found out about the book thanks to word of mouth, said Australian Ray Kuschert, one of the authors, adding that it was his Vietnamese friend that introduced him to the project. I wanted to try writing in Vietnamese so I thought this would be a good opportunity, Ondra Slowik from the Czech Republic, one of the authors, said, adding that he is also working on his own book in Vietnamese at the moment. Vietnam taught me a lesson At the book presentation event, six of the 21 authors joined readers on Ho Chi Minh Citys Book Street to share stories from their experience of participating in the project, as well as from their time in Vietnam. Each other was eager to share their appreciation for being given the opportunity to participate in sharing their story and all agreed that Vietnam has played a major role in their lives. I grew up with the word Vietnam but I did not know what it meant, said Kuschert, who has spent the last six years training English teachers in Vietnam, adding that it was this curiosity that first brought him to the country where his father was a soldier in Vietnam in 1965. I was on vacation in Vietnam with my son and after a few days in the country, I told him that it felt like home, Kuschert said. Living in Vietnam has taught me a lot of lessons, and I think I would not be the same person thanks to my experience here in Vietnam, chimed in Barrera. According to Barrera, the most important thing hes learned since coming to Vietnam has been an appreciation for the small things in life, which can be most clearly seen in how Vietnamese appreciate take the time to cherish each cup of coffee. Coffee is very important in Vietnam because it is not just about coffee, he said, adding that his entry in the book is also about his experience with Vietnamese coffee breaks. On the other hand, Barrera admits that Vietnamese can be very stubborn sometimes so dealing with the instances of miscommunication that comes with not speaking the language fluently can be frustrating. Slowik, the husband and father to a Vietnamese woman and daughter, claims that in Vietnam people are more open to strangers, neighbors, and acquaintances, an attitude which fills life with many more interactions than in his home country of the Czech Republic. If I need to buy something quickly, I can leave my daughter with the guard of the building Im living in. This would be impossible at home, he said. Sevinch, one of the authors, holds hands with a reader. Photo: Ha My / Tuoi Tre News Echoing his view, Sevinch Orujova Fagradinova admits that in Russia, where she grew up, people have become increasingly indifferent towards each others lives, while in Vietnam she still enjoys affection and concern. For instance, if one asks for directions in Vietnam, one will receive detailed instructions from many people willing to go out of their way to help. On the other hand, in many other countries, people would pretend they did not hear in order to avoid trouble, Sevinch said. One thing that is missing in Vietnam, however, is the lack of transparency and honesty, Sevinch commented adding that many Vietnamese still avoid being direct in their demands, disapprovals, and opinions, making it hard for many to work on a professional level. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Read whats in the news today! Politics -- Hungary is looking to open a cultural and community center in Hanoi, Deputy Minister of State under the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Bezetei Akos said during a working session on Friday in Hanoi with Nguyen Van Suu, deputy chairman of the Vietnamese capital. -- The Embassy of Belgium in Vietnam held a ceremony to open a center for receiving visa applications to European countries, including Belgium, Germany and Italy, in the central city of Da Nang on Friday. Society -- More than 414 hectares, or a quarter of the total area of O Loan a brackish water lagoon and national scenic relic in the south-central province of Phu Yen have been misappropriated by local people for illegally-built shrimp ponds. -- A patrol group of Lang Co Border Guard Station in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue on Friday rescued a 19-year-old English tourist, who suffered a serious injury after he slipped while bathing in a waterfall on Hai Van Pass the same day. -- The driver of a truck was stuck unconscious inside his cabin after crashing his vehicle into a dump truck in the southern province of Binh Phuoc on Friday afternoon, prompting locals to use hammers and crowbars to break the vehicles door to rescue him. -- Two security officers at the Cam Ranh International Airport in the south-central province of Khanh Hoa have been commended for discovering and returning forgotten assets to two passengers, one Indian and one Chinese, the airports security team captain said on Friday. Business -- Vietnams leading mobile retailer The Gioi Di Dong (Mobile World) announced at the companys 2019 Annual General Meeting on Friday the plan of converting and opening 150 new stores for its electronics business called Dien May Xanh (Blue Electronics), while focusing on dry grocery and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) on the website of Bach Hoa Xanh its fresh food chain. -- With the current rapid growth, revenues from e-commerce retail in Vietnam are likely to reach US$15 billion in 2020, according to the Vietnam News Agency. Sports -- Vietnam thrashed Brunei 6-0 as they opened their campaign in the 2020 AFC (Asian Football Confederation) U23 Championship Qualifier in a stunning fashion at the My Dinh National Stadium, Hanoi, on Friday. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Bros before bureaucrats. Photo: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images President Trump likes Chairman Kim, and he doesnt think these sanctions will be necessary. With that Friday night statement from White House press secretary Sarah Saunders, foreign policys favorite star-crossed lovers were back: the ardent Donald Trump and the elusive dictator Kim Jong-un, kept apart by the United States Treasury. Which, according to the Constitution, reports to President Trump. Earlier on Friday, the president sparked rampant confusion within his administration when he tweeted this: It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 The problem: the U.S. hadnt unveiled any new large scale sanctions against North Korea. Some thought Trump might be referring to Treasurys announcement on Thursday that it would sanction Chinese shipping companies for breaking rules barring transactions with Pyonyang, but that was a small step just two firms were targeted. Eventually, administration officials told the Washington Post, it was determined that Trump was talking about a future round of previously unknown sanctions, which were set to be announced in the coming days. Since the Hanoi summit fell apart last month, administration officials have steadily sought to portray a hardening stance toward North Korea without appearing to close the door on further talks and progress. The growing extent of North Koreas sanctions-busting including exporting weapons and military training to war zones, and importing the fuel and other basics has been hard to ignore. Pyongyang has been accused of selling weapons to Houthi rebels in Yemen (whom our allies, the Saudis, are killing) and training soldiers in Uganda. A leaked United Nations report contained new evidence of North Korea flouting sanctions, including its transfer of 57,000 barrels of oil between ships on the high seas. The head of the U.N. panel behind the report said he had never seen such elaborate methods of smuggling, adding that the North is getting better at it all the time. Responding with new sanctions, however small, would have been another step in tensions ratcheting upwards. Last week, a North Korean official threatened to cut off continuing negotiations (although they arent actually continuing at the moment). She seemed to be trying to differentiate between the U.S. government and Trump, referring to the gangster-like stand of the U.S. but calling relations between Trump and Kim mysteriously wonderful the kind of thing you say about your friends romance that you really, really dont get. But North Koreas response to the failed summit has gone beyond talk. Within the week after Hanoi, analysts at several think tanks observed independently that one of the countrys important rocket test launching facilities, which it had partially dismantled as a sign of good faith after the Singapore Summit, had just been restored. This was backed up by leaks from intelligence agencies noting increased activity at the site. Breathless speculation that a missile test might be imminent ensued. The Trump administration, to its credit, batted down the speculation and stuck carefully to calm expressions of uncertainty about what the construction might mean. But National Security Adviser John Bolton, who has mused publicly about a pre-emptive attack on North Korea, warned Pyongyang not to test or launch, and conservative administration allies called for a stronger response even as Secretary of State Pompeo continued to insist that the administration believes a negotiated agreement remains possible. That agreement keeps getting bigger and more complex, though. Two weeks ago the administrations North Korea negotiator, Steven Biegun said that in addition to the nuclear weapons and facilities Pyongyang has so far refused to consider cataloguing or inspecting, let alone destroying North Korean disarmament would have to include its arsenal of chemical and biological weapons. His administration may be confused, but you have to hand it to Trump for consistency. I have a feeling that our relationship with North Korea, Kim Jong-un and myself, I think it is a very good one, Trump told reporters last week. I think it remains good. If only relations with our actual allies were so good. The Trump administration stunned observers shortly after the Hanoi summit by announcing that the U.S. would not resume large-scale military exercises with South Korea giving the North something it very much wanted without getting anything in return. Then came reports that the White House had directed the Pentagon to prepare to re-negotiate agreements with every country that hosts U.S. troops, with an option that the host countries would pay every cent of U.S. costs, plus 50 percent. If enacted, that could raise South Koreas costs five or six times. This was quite a shock to Seoul, which had just renewed its base agreement with the U.S. for just one year, agreeing to pay 9 percent more. The idea also drew outrage from conservatives like former vice president Dick Cheney, who see globally-deployed forces as one of the foundations of U.S. power, as well as from liberals and libertarians who dislike the idea of U.S. troops being used as mercenaries for sale to a high bidder. We are in uncharted territory here. It used to be pretty rare that presidents failed to control the executive branch policy process and when it did happen, they wouldnt show off their failure. Perhaps, one day, we will again have a president who wants to work with the executive branch, not against it; and two political parties, not just one, that take the role of congressional oversight of national security policy seriously. We had better hope so. Because it is increasingly clear that North Korea will still have nuclear weapons. More of them. And we will have fewer partners, and less trusting ones, to counter them. Officers from a local border guard station in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue on Friday rescued a young British tourist, who suffered a serious injury after he slipped during a waterfall swim the same day. The victim, identified as 19-year-old Christian Allwyn Hawitt, was receiving treatment at a hospital in the neighboring city of Da Nang, Hoang Van Dung, vice head of the Lang Co Border Guard Station, told the media on Friday evening. According to the officer, a patrol team of the station was on duty near the waterfall on Hai Van Pass, when they came across a group of three foreign tourists, one of whom appeared to suffer serious injuries. The border guards immediately called an ambulance and emergency services from Chan May General Hospital, located some 30km away from the waterfall, to the scene of the accident. The victim was then transferred to Da Nang for further treatment more than one hour after receiving first aid. According to initial information, the three tourists, all British nationals, were traveling from Hue, the capital of Thua Thien - Hue, to Da Nang on rented motorbikes when they decided to stop by the waterfall on Hai Van Pass to take a bath. Hawitt slipped and fell as he was climbing on the waterfall. Stretching approximately 21 kilometers along National Highway 1A, Hai Van Pass crosses the border between Thua Thien-Hue Province and Da Nang Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A bunker filled with over 100 artillery shells were safely cleared by authorities in Quang Tri Province in north-central Vietnam on Thursday following a surprise discovery by a local farmer. Nguyen Van Dung, a resident of Huong Hoa District in Quang Tri, came across an object that looked like an artillery shell while cultivating a piece of farmland to plant bananas the same day. He immediately reported his finding to the local military command, which notified the provincial mobile bomb disposal squad to come and examine the area. After some excavation works, the team discovered a bunker underneath the farmland and was able to unearth some 100 artillery shells of various types and sizes, many of which were unexploded. On the same day, all of the ordnances were relocated to a safe site for disposal. Quang Tri suffers from Vietnams worst contamination of explosive remnants of the American war that ended in 1975. More than 80 percent of the provinces total area is contaminated by unexploded bombs, according to statistics from the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defense. The ministry estimates that it would take Quang Tri approximately three centuries to completely remove all unexploded ordnances left from the war. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Everyone knows who won, but not everyone knows how. -Dominic Cummings. Next weekend the United Kingdom was due to leave the European Union, but as anybody who even fleetingly follows the news knows, the country has been in a state of disarray. PM Theresa May, whose leadership is seemingly hanging by a thread, is now pushing for a May exit if an agreement can be reached in the UK parliament. BBC First has timed Brexit: The Uncivil War for the week of ties cut but ironically that timing looks to be but one of the casualties. This telemovie, produced by Channel 4, is rather good if the whole sorry saga fascinates you. Moving beyond the politics, into a human drama, is more challenging. The script by James Graham (based on two books) is heavy in backroom negotiations, middle-aged white men and the art of war. The through-line, thankfully, is Benedict Cumberbatchs performance as Dominic Cummings, a high-viz wearing cyclist with a receding hairline who is a determined strategist behind the Leave campaign. Cummings is a wild card, depicted as bucking the Establishment in his relentless bid to win over the Remain campaign led by Craig Oliver (Rory Kinnear). Whilst politicians want to door-knock and hand out leaflets to leave the EU, Cummings taps into the power of digital campaigning. He meets a young Canadian, Zack Massingham (Kyle Soller) whose AggregateIQ software can bring together Facebook, Twitter and the Electoral poll. This is a battle that will be won not on the streets, but in targeted advertising. With issues such as the economy, the National Health Service, immigration and the potential of Turkey joining the EU (and thus the possibility of more migrants and refugees), Cummings also hitches his campaign to emotion. Theres also claims of 350m costs each week to be part of the EU. While the Remain campaign appeals to heads, Cummings aims for the hearts. The telemovie also dramatises a rival, second Leave campaign headed by wealthy businessman Aaron Banks (Lee Boardman), mayor Boris Johnson (Richard Goulding) joining the Leave campaign and ongoing frustrations within Craig Olivers Remain campaign. Hes not the messiah hes a very naughty f***ing arsehole. Craig Oliver. Rippling underneath the narrative are fears and fatherhood for Cummings, which are somewhat underwritten given his personal life gets limited screen time. But Cumberbatch is always watchable, spitting out dogma dialogue as required and suitably encapsulating part-genius / part-powderkeg ready to ignite at any moment. Rory Kinnear excels as the reasoned Craig Oliver, whose bright light moment comes as too little, too late. Richard Goulding strikes me as too young, and indeed too trim, as Boris Johnson but he does capture his spirit. The storys revelations about targeted advertising in political campaigns is truly scary (hello USA) and as Theresa May might soon discover, Brexit has a sequel that is still playing out. Brexit: The Uncivil War 8:30pm Saturday March 30 on BBC First. On Foreign Correspondent Sally Sara reports on The Battle for Rio. Democrat or despot? Brazils new strongman is cracking down on rampant crime but many fear the Trump of the Tropics is turning his country into a police state. People want to break the system and the great symbol to break the system was Bolsonaro. Rodrigo Amorim, MP and friend of new President Bolsonaro. Jair Bolsonaro vaulted to power on a pledge to smash corruption and endemic violent crime that sees around 60,000 Brazilians murdered each year, many in its tourist capital Rio, and to restore family values. His message rang with Brazils burgeoning evangelicals and middle classes. In Rio, reporter Sally Sara moves from wealthy gated communities to crime-infested favelas to explore why yet another democracy has turned to a hard-right absolutist leader Brazil really needs someone who is more severe, more drastic. Rachel, middle class single mother and victim of rape and robbery. and why his opponents live in dread. This is obviously a person who poses a danger to basic democratic principles, to the rule of law, to human rights. Glenn Greenwald, journalist and husband of left-wing MP. When Bolsonaro lets police shoot to kill, his army of supporters love him for it. It seems not to matter that the former soldier praises past military dictatorships, or that he trash-talks women, or that he is a homophobe. But there was one killing thats become a rallying point for those who oppose the new president. Black, gay, favela-raised politician Marielle Franco was a fierce critic of a policing system that kills a reported 5000 people a year. A year ago she and her driver were gunned down by unknown assailants. Just this month, two ex-military police were arrested in connection with the killings. There are men, powerful, who killed her because they dont accept people like us in politics David Miranda, gay left-wing politician. In death, Marielle Franco looms as large as she did in life. As preparations get under way for the spectacular annual Carnaval, huge flags are unfurled bearing her image. She has become a heroine and galvanising figure for opponents of the new order. She may inspire them, but she cant protect them Everybody is afraid of dying, everybody Sagat B, barber and musician in the favelas. 8pm Tuesday March 26 on ABC. North Korea has today withdrawn from the liaison office intended to provide continuing communications between the North and South. This follows failed talks between the US and North Korean leaders at a summit in Hanoi, Vietnam last month. South Korea expressed its regret at the Norths decision to cease communicating through the office, which had been seen as a further sign of thawing relations between the two countries. Before the centre was set up just across the border in North Korea, each side relied on fax machines and dedicated phone lines for communication. These were often shut off at short notice in reaction to perceived threats or aggressive language. The office was therefore designed to encourage a more steady flow of talks, with hopes of mutual benefit to each side. The timing of North Koreas withdrawal seems significant. The Hanoi summit between President Trump and North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un followed another in June 2018 in Singapore, where talks also broke down. Blame passed between US and North Korea Kim Hyun-wook of the (South) Korean National Diplomatic Academy commented, North Korea is putting South Korea on the spot to either make the US move or ignore sanctions and push forward with economic cooperation with them. Blame has been passed between the US and North Korea for failing to reach any solid agreements in the summits so far. The US has stated that it wants Kim Jong-un to provide a detailed list of weapons and missile facilities. North Korea has stated this is too much to ask, and wants Trump to remove sanctions in recognition of North Korean efforts to de-nuclearise. The US President walked out of the Hanoi summit after Kim insisted on a lifting of all sanctions. I could have 100% signed something today. We actually had papers ready to be signed, but it just wasnt appropriate. Id much rather do it right than do it fast, he said. On the North Korean side, Deputy Foreign Minister Choe Son stated, We have no intention to yield to the US demands in any form, nor are we willing to engage in negotiations of this kind. North Korea no longer a threat according to Trump After the first summit last year, President Trump spoke of North Korea's potential danger and stated it was no longer a nuclear threat. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recently appeared to renege somewhat on that view, declaring, What [Trump] said was that the efforts that had been made in Singapore - this commitment that Chairman Kim made - have substantially taken down the risk to the American people. The summits have been met with great fanfare on both the American and North Korean sides, and closely watched by the international community for signs that any solid agreements could be made. North and South Korea technically remain at war with each other. Those involved in peace talks since the Korean War started in 1950 have never been able to agree on terms. China, North Korea, and the UN Command led by the US would need to agree on a peace treaty for this to happen. An armistice was signed in 1953, but never a formal declaration that the war is over. Earlier this month, US Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Andrea Thompson stated, Is there a next summit? Well, I think there will be. Additional aid funding has been announced by the Scottish Government to help support relief efforts in Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe following deadly flooding in the region. More than 400,000 people have lost their homes and at least an estimated 480 lives have been lost as a result of Cyclone Idai. An appeal launched by the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) on Thursday to help those affected raised 8 million within its first 24 hours. Some of the devastation caused in Nhamatanda in Mozambique (AP) International Development Minister Ben Macpherson announced that the Scottish Government would provide 150,000 to the appeal. Around 100,000 of funding is to come from the international development budget, with 50,000 allocated from the Climate Justice Fund to support emergency flood relief in Malawi in securing water supplies and treating contamination. Earlier this month, the Scottish Government pledged a total of 175,000 towards supporting relief efforts. Our thoughts are with all of those affected by the terrible consequences of Cyclone Idai, said Mr Macpherson. As an outward-looking, compassionate country it is right that we do what we can to support the international response to this humanitarian emergency. This funding will help aid agencies in Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to deliver life-saving support to local families and communities in desperate need, as will all public donations to the DEC Scotland appeal. The area submerged by water in Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe is vast following #CycloneIdai. Land and livelihoods have been ruined and the recovery will take time. Please give what you can: https://t.co/qPy0EslyU0 pic.twitter.com/JU94PeACqL DEC (@decappeal) March 22, 2019 Sally Foster Fulton, of Christian Aid and DEC Scotland, said: The DEC in Scotland is delighted that the Scottish Government has made available this extra funding. The Scottish public are already responding generously, as always, and were sure this extra boost will inspire others to dig deep in the coming days. The response from our members and partners on the ground over the weekend will be vital in saving and protecting lives, so please donate now. Photo: J. Scott Applewhite/AP Robert Mueller has, at very long last, submitted his report to the Department of Justice. A driving question of the collected Russia investigations thus far: what does collusion really mean? In terms of legal consequence, the answer is frustratingly unattainable for those who dont hold a JD, or dont pore through every special counsel update although that second camp is growing by the day. Mueller Twitter, for all its vexations and sideshows, has been a helpful resource to interpret the larger meaning of all the indictments, sentencings, bombshells, and reports that fizzled out. Below is a rough guide to the voices leading the conversation about the special counsel on Twitter, and who will be essential to pay attention to whenever the Mueller report finally goes public. Among the moderates, one trend is clear: the best Mueller watchers are people with a law background who can quickly analyze and translate legal documents into most likely scenarios. The skeptics, meanwhile, insist that for all the riveting detail in Muellers findings, theres just not that much actionable dirt on the president. And who doesnt need a good alarmist in their life? The Alarmists SETH ABRAMSON Followers: 606,000 A University of New Hampshire professor, an attorney, and Twitters foremost abuser of the explainer-thread, Abramson treats nearly every development in the collected Russia investigations as a bombshell, plunging 10 tweets deep on how a new bit of information could damage a president who is all but untouchable. If youre looking for restraint, look elsewhere. If you want a big-picture reminder of the staggering amount of norms Trump is violating, youre in the right place. LAURENCE TRIBE Followers: 606,000 A Harvard law professor and member of the Al Gore legal team that contested the results of the Florida recount, Tribes feed consists of huge-if-true takes on all sorts of stories that paint Trump in a negative light. In 2017, Tribe received flack for promoting a conspiracy theory suggesting Trump gave $10 million worth of rubles to former Representative Jason Chaffetz after the House Oversight chairman leaked a letter from the FBI. The Moderates JONATHAN CHAIT Followers: 170,000 Last summer, in a feature for New York, Chait laid out the case that Trump has been a Russian asset since he first visited Moscow in the 80s, way before reports emerged that the FBI opened an inquiry into the possibility. He often notes how Trump and his surrogates keep changing their defense as prosecutors turn up more damning evidence. JOSH GERSTEIN Followers: 50,500 Politico senior legal affairs contributor Josh Gerstein provides straight angles and breaks news on the court-related aspects of the investigation, like when circuit courts uphold the special counsels authority. In an act of public generosity, Gerstein reads legal filings front to back so we dont have to finding, for example, the detail that Mueller recommended Manafort serve 17.5 years deep in the footnotes. RYAN GOODMAN Followers: 51,100 A former special counsel for the Department of Defense, Goodman often concerns himself with the federal and state tax crimes that Trump and his organization may have violated. His threads manage to find the through-lines connecting convoluted stories. SUSAN HENNESSEY Followers: 226,000 Hennessey, the executive editor of Lawfare, gives insight into the likely process of Trumps legal team. For example, when Michael Cohen submitted a document showing Trumps lawyers edited his statement in front of Congress in 2017, a question emerged: did the president sign off on the changes? Hennesseys answer: It does defy common sense and ordinary lawyering practice to think that Trumps lawyers would be freelancing on something so important without consulting with their client. RENATO MARIOTTI Followers: 196,000 Retweeting Donald Trump Jr. with a spicy angle is a classic pitfall of #resistance Twitter, but this CNN legal analyst and former federal prosecutor manages to do it well, explaining why the presidents son is mistaken in exact legal detail. Mariotti is also great distiller of court filings. BARBARA McQUADE Followers: 99,300 This former U.S. Attorney and University of Michigan law professor is a rare moderate willing to use the word impeach, and has made the argument that the House Judiciary Committees probe might be more damaging to the president than the special counsels investigation. ASHA RANGAPPA Followers: 300,000 A vital legal mind with a background in intelligence she spent three years as an FBI special agent Rangappa is able to blend the two disciplines in ways that should be obviously relevant for analyzing the Mueller investigation. Rangappa falls in with the camp that believes Trump is not an asset because he would make a terrible witting spy, but that he is easily manipulated and that Putin, a [former] KGB officer, knows how to pull his strings. The Skeptics GLENN GREENWALD Followers: 1 million The Intercept co-founder might be the most high-profile doubter of the Mueller investigations significance who isnt a registered Republican. From a 2018 New York profile: In his eyes, the Russia-Trump story is a shiny red herring one that distracts from the failures, corruption, and malice of the very Establishment so invested in promoting it. And when in January, as Journalism Twitter was chastising the president for one outrage or another, Congress quietly passed a bipartisan bill to reauthorize sweeping NSA surveillance, you had to admit Greenwald might have been onto something. MOLLIE HEMINGWAY Followers: 241,000 A senior editor at the Federalist, Hemingway has called the Trump-Russia story a hoax and a conspiracy theory, and is suspicious of how many journalists and DC types are full-blown, unadulterated Russia-Trump truthers. Look to Hemingway for a synopsis of conservative establishment case against the Mueller investigation. KIMBERLEY STRASSEL Followers: 231,000 This Wall Street Journal columnist has called House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff a conspiracy theorist, and posits that so far the information produced by Muellers team is more damning for the FBI than President Trump. BYRON YORK Followers: 313,000 The Washington Examiner columnist and Fox News contributor wants the Mueller report to be released in full, arguing for as much transparency in Trump-Russia matters as possible. York posits that the Mueller report will likely not impact Trump on any collusion-related charges, as sentencing memos thus far have yet to mention any such action between the president and contacts in Moscow. York is also skeptical that Schiffs probe will be able to find anything that Republican Devin Nuness House investigation did not. BRIT HUME Followers: 996,000 Hume, a senior political analyst at Fox News, claims that using the word collusion to describe the Russia investigation is misleading, and offers a measured defense for the common argument that nothing of consequence will come from them. The MAGA Counterpoint BILL MITCHELL Followers: 411,000 An executive recruiter by trade, Mitchell gained a following on conservative Twitter during the GOP primaries, and hasnt let up since, tweeting non-stop about the witch hunt. Recently, he put forward an argument which requires a great deal of faith in the presidents innocence: The JUDICIAL WATCH Followers: 1 million A staple of uncle-Twitter, the president of this legal blog has called the Mueller investigation a Get Trump effort. Stop in to see how the presidents defenders are fleshing out his witch hunt claims with legal arguments. LOUIE GOHMERT Followers: 198,000 In April 2018, this Congressman from east Texas wrote a 48-page essay published by Sean Hannity that begins: Robert Mueller has a long and sordid history of illicitly targeting innocent people that is a stain upon the legacy of American jurisprudence. Judging from past writing, expect Gohmert to issue an impassioned, if wordy rebuke of Muellers findings. MATT GAETZ Followers: 104,000 The night before Michael Cohens testimony, the Florida Congressman tweeted what appeared to be a threat at Cohen. This staunch defender of the president can be officially considered a wildcard. SEAN DAVIS Followers: 163,000 A co-founder of the Federalist, Davis is the rare establishment conservative who has expressed more MAGA-aligned rhetoric on the special counsel, calling the inquiry conspiracy mongering, and Muellers defenders as Resistance Russia truthers. SEBASTIAN GORKA Followers: 723,000 Gorka was recently cut from the Fox News roster, so the former deputy assistant to the presidents best bet for attention these days is to vigorously defend his former boss online. This post has been updated to reflect that Seth Abramson is a professor at the University of New Hampshire. The Duchess of Sussex is still keeping busy despite edging ever closer to her due date! It has been revealed that she attended a private meeting with one of her patronages, Smart Works, on Friday, confirming that she has now met with each of her original patronages ahead of the royal baby's arrival. The Court Circular note for 22 March read: "The Duchess of Sussex, Patron, this morning attended a Meeting at Smart Works, St Charles Hospital, Exmoor Street, London W10." prince-harry-meghan-markle-baby-record Meghan has held meetings with all her patronages It is thought that Meghan intended to meet with each organisation privately, before she winds down to prepare for the birth. The Duchess has kept herself pretty busy despite approaching the end of her first pregnancy, with overseas trips to New York and Morocco and a number of other official engagements during her final trimester. Prince Charles expresses his fears for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal baby Meghan is not expected to make any more public outings, and her recent meetings behind closed doors could reveal that she is now in fact on maternity leave, having visited each patronage. Prince Harry even hinted that Meghan is officially taking a much-needed break during his visit to St Vincents Catholic Primary School on Wednesday. Loading the player... As Harry met pupils in the playground, one asked him where Meghan was. Harry responded by miming his wife's baby bump with his hand, and telling them she was having a baby - suggesting that she's now officially on leave. The royal couple's last public appearance together was an unplanned engagement at New Zealand House in London, to pay tribute to the victims of last week's devastating attack. meghan-markle-nz-tribute Visiting New Zealand House to pay her respects For the emotional visit, heavily-pregnant Meghan wore a pair of earrings featuring a crossed feathers design given to her by the country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. They laid flowers outside and were among the first people to sign the book of condolence, which opened to the public on Tuesday. Kate Middleton surprises bystanders outside Kensington Palace If there's one thing we can all appreciate in Us, Jordan Peele's second feature film after his Oscar-winning Get Out, it's the view. Sure, it's mostly obscured by the murderous, jumpsuit-wearing doubles trying to annihilate Lupita Nyong'o and company, but that doesn't take away from the fact that the entire film takes place by the sunny beachside! The film's synopsis explains that Adelaide (Nyong'o), Gabe (Winston Duke), and their kids, Zora and Jason (Shahadi Wright Joseph and Evan Alex) travel to Adelaide's beachside childhood home for an idyllic summer getaway in Northern California. Specifically, they travel to Santa Cruz where they "relax" near the amusement park, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which Adelaide also visits with her parents when she's a young girl (played by Madison Curry). Peele's film crew was seen with cast members in Santa Cruz back in September 2018, where most of the exterior shots for the movie were filmed. Aside from the days spent in the Santa Cruz, most of the film was shot in Los Angeles. The Wilson's family vacation house is located in Pasadena, with the lake scenes being shot at Lake Gregory. Check out some behind-the-scenes photos of Peele and the cast filming ahead and, if you're ever in Santa Cruz or Los Angeles, I would keep your eyes peeled (Get it?) for any red jumpsuits. You never know who's lurking in the shadows . . . Related: Watch Lupita Nyong'o and the Cast of Us Rap to a Spooky Beat, and Just TRY Not to Nod Along Uprooted Palestinians are at the heart of the conflict in the M.E Palestinians uprooted by force of arms. Yet faced immense difficulties have survived, kept alive their history and culture, passed keys of family homes in occupied Palestine from one generation to the next. Spoilers for "The Young and the Restless" recently announced that Shemar Moore would be reprising his role as Malcolm Winters to say goodbye to television brother Neil. Now it is being revealed that Victoria Rowell and Mishael Morgan will also pay their respects to Kristoff St. John who died February 1. Hilary and Drucilla, however, will not be a part of the happenings in Genoa City because both their characters are deceased. Their portrayers will have a few moments to share how special St. John was to them, in a special segment that will air on April 26. There still has been no word on how Neil will be written out of the show, but spoilers have indicated his death will be tragic. Victoria Rowell returns to 'Y&R' Soap Opera Spy announced that Shemar Moore was coming back to Genoa City as Malcolm, to say a final farewell to Kristoff St. John's character Neil. Soap Dirt now says that Victoria Rowell has agreed to return as well to her old stomping grounds on "The Young and the Restless." Unlike Shemar, however, she will not be a part of the cast. Her character Drucilla fell to her death from a cliff many years ago so the actress will take part in an off-screen tribute to the man who portrayed her television husband. Neil and Dru were a popular couple on "Y&R" but that ended when Rowell decided to take on other projects, including co-starring in the hit series "Diagnosis Murder" with Dick VanDyke. During an interview with Steve Harvey on his talk show, the actress shared that she and Kristoff St. John remained good friends over the years even though they no longer worked together. Mishael Morgan is back but not as Hilary Soap Dirt indicates that joining Victoria Rowell in her tribute to Kristoff St. John will be Mishael Morgan who portrayed Hilary Curtis, Winters, Hamilton. Discuss this news on Eunomia Hilary was one of the casualties of Mal Young's reign as head writer on the show. When Morgan sought a raise, she was denied so did not renew her contract. Her character died due to injuries sustained in a car crash, so like Victoria, she will share her memories of the man who played Neil for three decades, off-screen. Be sure to watch "The Young and the Restless" on April 26 to hear about the fond memories that Mishael Morgan and Victoria Rowell will share about their former television husband. Continue to check for spoilers that give updates on the storyline related to how Kristoff St. John will be written out of the show, and how Malcolm deals with the death of his brother. "Y&R" airs weekday afternoons on CBS at 12:30 PM EST. An Indonesia-based international airline just became the very first airline company in the world that wants to cancel its orders for Boeing's Max aircraft. Such an unexpected cancellation of orders comes as a result of the two deadly crashes that took place in Ethiopia and Indonesia within a span of barely five months. This cancellation carries a risk of costing Boeing billions of dollars in losses, Gizmodo reported. Risks of Boeing's planes The Indonesian airline Garuda has reportedly contacted Boeing for the purpose of canceling its deal with the company for its Max planes. The deal that was supposed to happen between the two companies was worth somewhere around $4.9 billion. The deal included the purchase of 49 Boeing's 737 Max 8 planes. However, two deadly crashes happened recently which involved the 737 planes. Garuda's customers started raising several concerns related to the aircraft which is a huge reason why the company canceled its deal with Boeing, according to a report by the Associated Press. At the beginning of 2014, Garuda initially ordered 50 planes from Boeing but received the delivery of only one plane in 2017. Garuda recently released an official statement saying that its customers are constantly asking the airline staff regarding which aircraft they will be flying on due to the recent crashes that have taken place. The company also said its customers have lost their entire faith and belief in the brand new Boeing 737 Max planes. Fortunately for Boeing, its deal with Garuda airline might not be dead after all. Wall Street reports that it's quite a difficult task for airlines to change planes from entirely different manufacturers as pilots are trained for an extensive period of time on the specific plane that they will be flying. Discuss this news on Eunomia So now, if Garuda's pilots are familiar with the Boeing planes, it will be easy for the company to transition to a different Boeing aircraft. According to NBC News, the Indonesian airline sent a letter to Boeing in regards to the cancelation of its orders on March 14. The sending of the letter comes just four days after the latest crash in the country of Ethiopia on March 10 that killed all 157 passengers on board. The first crash that happened involving a Max 8 was on October 29, 2018. This was near the coast of Indonesia and killed around 189 people. Boeing 737 Max crashes The authorities are still investigating the cause of the latest plane crash. However, the earliest reports suggest that both planes may have given a false indication of the nose being pointed way too high. The automation system in the plane called the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System must have forced the aircraft's nose down to make sure that it didn't stall. Presently, it's not clear if the pilots had the ability to counteract or even override the automated system. Boeing issued an official statement recently saying that it is going to release a software update for the controversial Max planes by the end of April. Just recently, it was revealed that Boeing charges airline companies extra money for high-level safety features. These features include warning the pilot in case of a false reading in the automation system. As of now, about 385 Boeing Max planes are in the hands of airlines around the globe. But keeping the safety measures in consideration, every single one of those planes have been grounded until the authorities have completed their investigation. Orders for more than 4,000 planes have been placed by airlines but not yet delivered. It's pretty much expected for Boeing to see a lot more dissatisfied customers in the coming weeks over safety concerns. Garuda's top representatives have reportedly set up a meeting with the Boeing's senior executives next week in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta to talk about their ongoing deal. It's not entirely clear if Boeing will accept the cancelation at such short notice. There is also a possibility that the agreement between the two companies might force them to accept a different arrangement. Generally, a usual down-payment on an aircraft is around five percent. Before two years of the aircraft's final delivery, the airlines begins the process of progress payments, the Wall Street Journal reported. iStock/Thinkstock(BAGHOUZ, Syria) -- Syrian Kurdish forces declared victory over the Islamic State on Saturday, after a years-long fight to reclaim territory that once belonged to the terror groups self-declared caliphate. "Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and %100 territorial defeat of ISIS," Mustafa Bali, head of the SDF press office, said on Twitter. "On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible." At its peak in 2014, ISIS controlled approximately 34,000 square miles of territory across Iraq and Syria that was home to about 10 million people. On March 1, the Syrian Democratic Forces, SDF, began its last offensive to retake the city of Baghouz, the last ISIS stronghold along the Middle Euphrates River Valley near the Iraq border. Since that time, thousands of ISIS fighters and their families have poured out of the area with 62,000 mostly women and children arriving in poor health at the Al Hol camp, according to the International Rescue Committee (IRC). At least 100 people, mostly children, died on their way there during that time. The IRC described the camp as at a breaking point in terms of being able to house and care for the thousands of people arriving from ISIS-held areas. Meanwhile, men who are determined to have allegiance to ISIS have been detained by the SDF. They now hold over 1,000 ISIS foreign fighters, along with thousands from Iraq and Syria. In its fight to retake land from ISIS in Syria, the SDF has received backing from the U.S.-led coalition comprised of over 75 nations and partner organizations. The first U.S. troops -- just 50 advisers -- arrived in Syria under the Obama administration in October 2015. That number has grown to about 3,000 as the U.S. prepares to withdraw most of those forces under orders by President Donald Trump. Trump had touted in recent days that ISIS was on its last legs. He proudly displayed a once-classified map showing how the forces had waned since his election two years ago on both Thursday and Friday. His declaration on Thursday that ISIS would be "gone by tonight" was the third time he'd declared victory in three months. About 400 U.S. troops will remain in two areas of Syria: in the northeast along the Turkish border to provide security and stability for Kurdish partners, and in the southeast at the At Tanf Garrison, a small U.S. base seen largely as a way to counter Iranian influence in the region. But even as the SDF declares victory, a long road lies ahead before cities and towns once held by ISIS return to any level of normalcy. The SDF and coalition must conduct back clearance operations to rid areas of booby traps and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) left behind by the terror group. Additionally, it will cost billions to rebuild and restore communities extensively destroyed in the fight. Another challenge will be for local security forces to retain control should ISIS seek to reconstitute. In Iraq, where the military declared liberation from ISIS in December 2017, the terror group has already established sanctuaries, according to a report released on Thursday by the Institute for the Study of War, setting the conditions for future offensive operations against the Government of Iraq. And U.S. officials estimate there could be as many as 20,000 ISIS fighters in the region. The U.S. and its partners should not view the current relative security in Baghdad as confirmation of the defeat of ISIS, Institute for the Study of War wrote. The U.S. Anti-ISIS Coalitions strategy to enable Iraq to independently manage an insurgency through intelligence support and other building partner capacity efforts will likely fail to prevent ISIS from regaining momentum based on its current trajectory in Iraq. There are still about 5,000 U.S. troops in Iraq. The commander of U.S. troops in the Middle East Gen. Joseph Votel warned March 7 against the "calculated" retreat of ISIS fighters from Baghouz, saying the exodus of thousands is not a surrender, but a decision to retreat to camps and remote areas in the region until they can reconstitute as a violent extremist organization once again. "We will see low-level attacks, we'll see assassinations, we'll see IED attacks, we'll see ambush type things as they begin to emerge from this. What our focus has to be is working with our partners," Votel told the House Armed Services Committee, adding, "We're going to have to keep pressure on this. Votel told CNN last month that he opposed the U.S. withdrawal from Syria and testified before Congress that he was not consulted by Trump before the president announced the decision in late December. Another principal concern of Votel and the larger U.S. government is how the international community will deal with the thousands of ISIS foreign fighters now in SDF custody. "In my view, this is a serious generational problem that if not handled properly will sow the seeds of future violent extremism, Votel said. The U.S. is pushing for them to be returned to their home countries, but that effort has, so far, been met with mixed success. Administration officials have said options for foreign fighters who cannot be repatriated include the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. He reports, Barr decides. Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty Images The hour has finally arrived. Nearly two years after Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein tasked Robert Mueller with leading an investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, the special counsel has delivered his report to the Justice Department. Now, Attorney General William P. Barr is thumbing through Muellers findings, the White Houses spin doctors are putting on a pot of coffee, political journalists are mourning the untimely deaths of their weekend plans and you, dear reader, are searching for an answer to one simple query: When will we get to read what Mueller has written? As of this writing, no one can give you definite answer to that question. But heres what we do know: In a letter to Congress Friday evening, Barr announced his receipt of the report, and said, I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. In other words, it seems that we will see a summary of the report (albeit, one prepared by Donald Trumps handpicked attorney general) some time within the next few days. But already, some news outlets claim to have been tipped off to some of Muellers principal conclusions. According to CNNs Laura Jarrett, Muellers report does not recommend any further indictments. If true, this would not necessarily mean that the report does not implicate president Trump in any criminal wrongdoing. Many legal scholars believe that a sitting president cannot be indicted for a federal crime, even if there is probable cause to believe he has committed one. That said, it seems reasonable to suspect, based on Jarretts reporting, that there will not be any enormous bombshell in Muellers findings. Earlier this month, the House unanimously approved a nonbinding resolution calling for Muellers report to be released to the public. Ultimately, the decision about whether to honor that request lies with Barr. But he is expected to release some version of the report after taking a few weeks to study it, and to redact any information from it that is either classified, or sourced from a grand jury. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Terms & Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. The White House may have the opportunity to review Barrs redacted report, and look for information that it can withhold on grounds of executive privilege. In his letter Thursday, Barr revealed that Justice Department officials never deemed any of Muellers investigative actions as being too inappropriate or unwarranted to be pursued. Barr would have been obligated to report any such instances to Congress, had they occurred. His disclosure suggests both that the White House will have a difficult time delegitimizing Muellers probe, and that Mueller encountered little direct political interference during his investigation. Many of the criminal cases kicked up by Muellers investigation have not been completed (including the prosecution of Trump campaign associate Roger Stone for lying to Congress). Other federal prosecutors will continue working those cases in the coming months. You can review the Mueller investigation findings that have already been made public here. President Trump love affair with the despotic dictator of North Korea Kim Jong-un is going too far. The president continues despite growing photographic, and intelligence evidence that shows the short fat murdering little dictator is ramping up multiple rockets and nuclear testing facilities. This contradicts an understanding that Trump believes he has with the North Korean dictator. By James DiGeorgia The U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions little more than 24 hours and has already been ordered to roll them back by President Donald Trump. The outright reversal of additional large scale Sanctions on North Korea was announced by President Trump on Twitter shows the disorder and chaos within the Trump administration. Michael London of the World Opportunity Investor said of the decision President Trumps Administration is in chaos, and it's becoming a serious national security threat. Reversing decisions being made just hours earlier by the presidents officials shows theirs no communication, no coordination, and no strategy. Doing it on Twitter demonstrates the President isnt unorthodox but as George Conway suggested this week The President may be mentally unfit to serve as President. Adding validity of the many political and even mental health analysts and professionals President Trump appeared to confuse the day that the new North Korean sanctions were announced, saying the move occurred on Friday rather than on Thursday. The newly imposed sanctions by the Treasury Department were on two specific Chinese shipping companies that U.S. officials believe have been helping North Korea evade the international sanctions regime put in place by both the Obama and Trump administrations in the last three-plus years. These new sanctions were the first that the Treasury Department had imposed since late last year, and were put in place less than 30 days from the failed summit meeting between Mr. Trump and Kim Jong-un, North Koreas leader, collapsed in Hanoi, Vietnam, without a deal or for that matter any progress. White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said of the decision to reverse the implementation of the additional sanctions was a favor to Mr. Kim, she said President Trump likes Chairman Kim, and he doesnt think these sanctions will be necessary, The reversal of the new sanctions was especially embarrassing for Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary and one of Mr. Trumps most loyal aides, who personally signed off on the sanctions and hailed the decision in a statement accompanying them on Thursday The United States and our like-minded partners remain committed to achieving the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea and believe that the full implementation of North Korea-related U.N. Security Council resolutions is crucial to a successful outcome. The New York Times reported today that Current and former Treasury Department officials were stunned by Mr. Trumps decision on Friday. Some said they wondered if the move was planned, as a gesture to Mr. Kim. Others feared that Americas vaunted sanctions regime had been compromised. John E. Smith, the former director of the Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control, who left the department last year, was quoted as saying by the New York Times... For an administration that continues to surprise, this is another first the president of the United States undercutting his own sanctions agency for imposing sanctions on Chinese actors supporting North Korea. Its a win for North Korea and China and a loss for U.S. credibility. One can only wonder what President Trump will do if the murderous dictator restarts missile and nuclear tests. Grant North Korea favored nation status or perhaps invited the brutal regime to join NATO? On March 15, an Australian white nationalist committed terrorist attacks during Friday prayer at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Fifty people between the ages of two and 71 were killed in the attacks, and 50 more were injured. The shooters rambling 73-page manifesto contained a confused mess of talking points from the white nationalist online milieu. He was arrested within minutes of the first emergency call and prevented from committing a planned attack at a third location. How should individuals and organizations of positive intent respond to disgusting hate crimes such as these? Is it enough to post online statements denouncing the attacks, or are such declarations simply the equivalent of sending thoughts and prayers? Is there a way to move from being reactive to being proactive regarding the reality of white nationalist terrorism today? See you in Valhalla In his manifesto, the shooter claims that he contacted the reborn Knights Templar and received their blessing for his attacks. He references Urban II, the pope who began the Crusades in which the original Knights Templar were notorious participants. He writes that his relationship to Christianity is complicated. It was another line in the manifesto, though, that caused a groundswell of reaction from Heathen communities: Goodbye, god bless you all and I will see you in Valhalla. As reported in The Wild Hunt, the final words of this sentence are the only mention of Norse mythology or Heathen religions in the shooters text. Heathen organizations were quick to post statements that brush aside the Christian elements of the manifesto, assert a connection between the shooter and modern Heathenry, then deny the connection of the shooter to their own organizations and iterations of Heathenry. Is this the right way to go about things? Like parental posts about the supposed Momo scare leading to an actual Momo scare, are Heathens creating a connection to Heathenry that the shooter himself did not? In an era of multimillion-dollar Thor films, popular viking-themed television shows, the Norse-themed God of War game topping sales charts, and viking metal bands headlining international festivals, its strange for American Heathens to assert ownership of the mythological Valhalla. Its likewise strange for Heathens in the United States to accuse white nationalists with runes on their materials of appropriating Heathen symbols; do modern American Pagans really own an alphabet developed in Europe two thousand years ago? Indeed, the arrival in the United States of Else Christensens overtly racist Odinism predates the founding of national universalist Heathen organizations by nearly twenty years. Aside from the weirdness of Americans claiming ownership of medieval Icelandic literature and ancient Germanic writing systems, racist Heathenry was up and running long before inclusive Heathenry. Maybe the appropriation argument isnt the best way to combat white nationalism. In any case, this is the question at hand: are declarations after hate crimes really the best response to rising white nationalist violence? No longer associate Within hours of the Christchurch attacks, an online statement appeared that condemns the violence. It now lists nearly fifty Heathen and Pagan organization as signatories. This is good. This is right. These groups should be saluted for making this statement. We have been here before, though. We have seen long lists of Heathen organizations denouncing violence, hate, and racism. We have seen strongly worded posts on Facebook and hashtags on Twitter. Yet here we are, standing among the ruins. In 2016 decades after the publication of Stephen McNallens Metagenetics, which outlined the racist foundations of folkish Asatru (an expression of the soul of our race), and very shortly after an Asatru Folk Assembly (AFA) Facebook post about beautiful white children Declaration 127 was posted online to denounce the AFA, an organization McNallen founded. To date, nearly two hundred Asatru, Heathen, Pagan, and associated other organizations, businesses, and websites have signed on. My website, The Norse Mythology Blog, is listed. The key statement of the declaration is this (italics in the original): We will not promote, associate, or do business with the AFA as an organization so long as they maintain these discriminatory policies. The declaration also states, We hereby declare that we do not condone hatred or discrimination carried out in the name of our religion, and will no longer associate with those who do. What have the results of Declaration 127 been? Maybe adoption of the first line quoted above means there has been a reduction in Heathen groups do[ing] business with the AFA as an organization at official, public, and publicized levels of cooperation. But what about the second line, and what about the individual level? In the past three years, have the members of the signatory organizations lived up to their public declaration to no longer associate with Heathens who condone hatred or discrimination carried out in the name of our religion? I have repeatedly heard members and leaders of signatory groups insist that folkish doesnt mean racist, that they have good friends in the AFA, that inclusive Heathens should welcome AFA members to join their organizations, that it is better to include racist Heathens (in order to convert them to a less hateful ideology) than it is to denounce them as racist (which would break the peace of the community), and that even asking if their organizations members are also in hate groups or associate with those who are is the same as calling for a witch hunt. If public statements like Declaration 127 and those after the Christchurch shootings dont actually result in real change on the ground, within our communities, in our individual lives, and in the relationships we have (or dont), what are they really for? I worry that they are more about disassociating the signees from racism and white nationalism than they are about actually combating racists and white nationalists. I worry that they are more about insisting Im not racist! than they are about driving racists out of our communities and our lives. I worry that they are more about protecting the signatories from the consequences of public association with white nationalism than they are about truly fighting the white nationalists who pledge allegiance to the same gods. If the word Valhalla had not been included in the Christchurch terrorists manifesto, would the many Heathen groups who have denounced the attack have stepped forward and started petitions? Is this really about standing against anti-Muslim rhetoric, Islamophobic violence, and incitement against immigrants as invaders? Or is it really about convincing the wider public that racism and white nationalism arent deeply interwoven into the past and present of modern Heathenry? Ive been thinking a lot about declarations versus deeds, and about community statements versus concrete steps. Instead of reacting after the fact to the violent result of white nationalism on the international stage, what can we do to truly fight its cancerous presence in our own communities? Things we can do 1. If we are going to make declarations, we should declare that folkish does mean racist. For any who still believe that folkish Heathenry isnt inherently grounded in white nationalism, the Southern Poverty Law Centers discussion of what they call neo-volkisch ideology is a good place to begin learning about the long history of the movement. 2. We should stop using folkish terminology. Using the term the folk in rituals and publications (Hail the folk!), whether defining the term as our Heathen ancestors or the people of northern Europe, forwards the core doctrine of racist Heathenry the idea that DNA and religion are inherently connected as does waxing poetic about our glorious Heathen forebears of the North. If a given group defines the folk as practitioners of modern Heathenry or members of this particular Heathen group, there are plenty of other terms to use that didnt enter Heathenry via the folkish promotion of volkisch ideology. 3. We should rethink our approaches to ancestor veneration. If the results of a mail-away ancestry test convince someone that they have a deep spiritual connection to the five percent of their DNA that is supposedly Norwegian, that person is subscribing to the foundational bloodline-religion conceit of Metagenetics. For example, in my group, Thors Oak Kindred, we practice a form of the round to the ancestors that isnt based on blood; we define ancestor to mean anyone who is no longer alive and whom we want to thank or salute no shared DNA needed. 4. We should live up to the spirit of Declaration 127. We should take the list of neo-volkisch hate groups to heart and ban members of these associations from attending our events and joining our organizations. We should enact zero tolerance policies for racist comments, anti-immigrant rhetoric, and Islamophobic jokes. One strike and out. No more overlooking this nonsense in the interest of peace. 5. We should embrace affirmative action to build diversity. Declaring that our organizations are inclusive is not the same as being part of diverse religious communities. Many American Heathens believe in prison ministries that interface with overtly racist incarcerated Heathens, ostensibly in the hope of converting them to a less racist form of the religion. If Heathens are okay with missionaries seeking to recruit racists or save souls in prison, its difficult to understand why they would be opposed to actively seeking out non-white Heathens and bringing them into their practicing groups. This isnt about recruiting one person of color and featuring their photo on an organizations social media accounts. If Heathenry isnt a religion for white people, our religious communities should naturally reflect the diversity of the United States. If our organizations and events are full of white people exclusively, we need to ask what were doing that has built a de facto exclusive religious community. 6. We should diversify Heathen presence at wider Pagan and interfaith events. We should refuse to be part of or attend all-white panel discussions on Heathen issues. We should let organizers know that such presentations are no longer acceptable. I encourage any who feel that this is calling for tokenism to embrace that feeling and follow it to its logical conclusion. If the idea of including, for example, African-American or Latinx Heathens on a panel discussing Heathen issues is offensively tokenist, take steps to fight tokenism. Pledge to only support Heathen workshops, presentations, and panels featuring exclusively non-white practitioners for the next decade. To very loosely paraphrase Ruth Bader Ginsburg, if Heathens werent offended by the past fifty years of exclusively white Heathen presenters, why would they be shocked by ten years of exclusively non-white presenters? 7. We should end the emphasis on Valhalla and fixation on warriors and weapons. Whether valorizing members of modern militaries as vikings headed to Valhalla, or celebrating the violent raids of the Viking Age as intrinsically connected to Heathenry, we are engaging in a celebration of violence that does, in fact, align us with the white nationalists. I understand the positive intent behind post-Christchurch statements that there is no hate in Valhalla, but we shouldnt pretend that the lore presents playing tiddlywinks as the entrance exam for entering Odins hall. Valhalla was a place for violent men who died violent deaths and practiced violence daily in the afterlife to prepare for further future violence. Its difficult to claim this isnt a religion that celebrates violence if we are, in fact, celebrating violence. 8. We should support the reform of gun laws. Within a week of the Christchurch terrorist attacks, New Zealands prime minister announced strengthened gun laws and a ban on military-style semi-automatic weapons, assault rifles and high-capacity magazines. The change invalidates existing gun licenses, and the countrys Cabinet has announced amnesty for those who hand in their weapons as part of a buyback program. Is the strain of libertarianism so strong in American Heathenry that we cant back even the most widely supported common sense reforms in order to decrease the number of people who die each year at the hands of white nationalist terrorists? 9. We should cooperate with news media and law enforcement agencies investigating white nationalists in our communities. If our goal is not to simply protect our public image as not racist, but is instead to actually combat this pernicious scourge, we should be ready to both shine a light on the problem and take steps to fix it. There are readily available resources on both preventing and reporting hate crimes in our communities. 10. We should oppose Heathen rants about Abrahamic religions. Maybe someone had horrible experiences growing up Christian; maybe someone is still mad about Charlemagnes holy war against the pagan Saxons. But attacking any Heathen who holds a different view by calling them a crypto-Christian, denouncing the Abrahamic faiths as stranger creeds or desert religions, and saying that Muslim refugees refuse to accept our values, makes fellow-travelers of Heathens and some of the grossest groups discussed in Mattias Gardells Gods of the Blood: The Pagan Revival and White Separatism. We have to stand against this rhetoric before it leads to yet more violence. I understand that many may see these suggestions as extreme, empty, or both. These are simply suggestions of how we can avoid being sucked into an endless cycle of violence and denunciation. We can pick one or many of these suggestions and try to implement them. We can throw these all out and come up with completely different ways forward. The only necessary thing is that we do something beyond denying that we have any connection to or responsibility for the violence that is increasingly part of our everyday lives. We can act to make a real difference or we can wait for another terrorist attack, then send thoughts and prayers. The views and opinions expressed by our diverse panel of columnists and guest writers represent the many diverging perspectives held within the global Pagan, Heathen and polytheist communities, but do not necessarily reflect the views of The Wild Hunt Inc. or its management. past daily news Sep 13 (1) Sep 09 (15) Sep 06 (12) Sep 04 (10) Sep 03 (10) Aug 31 (17) Aug 29 (14) Aug 26 (13) Aug 22 (11) Aug 21 (12) Aug 19 (21) Aug 14 (6) Aug 13 (10) Aug 10 (10) Aug 08 (9) Aug 07 (10) Aug 06 (10) Aug 05 (8) Aug 03 (8) Aug 02 (7) Aug 01 (7) Jul 31 (14) Jul 29 (1) Jul 27 (7) Jul 25 (5) Jul 24 (10) Jul 22 (11) Jul 19 (16) Jul 17 (6) Jul 16 (10) Jul 15 (13) Jul 12 (7) Jul 11 (5) Jul 10 (8) Jul 08 (8) Jul 07 (3) Jul 06 (5) Jul 05 (8) Jul 04 (11) Jul 03 (8) Jul 02 (7) Jul 01 (5) Jun 30 (8) Jun 28 (7) Jun 27 (8) Jun 26 (7) Jun 25 (8) Jun 24 (6) Jun 23 (6) Jun 22 (9) Jun 20 (5) Jun 19 (9) Jun 18 (8) Jun 15 (9) Jun 13 (13) Jun 11 (11) Jun 09 (19) Jun 06 (10) Jun 04 (10) Jun 03 (8) Jun 01 (6) May 31 (5) 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Nov 15 (25) Nov 14 (17) Nov 13 (21) Nov 12 (18) Nov 11 (9) Nov 10 (15) Nov 09 (9) Nov 08 (9) Nov 07 (12) Nov 06 (8) Nov 05 (4) Oct 29 (1) Oct 01 (1) Jul 29 (1) May 11 (1) Jul 11 (1) David Byrne at his own website: Our systemas evidenced by studies at Princeton University and Northwestern University and other researchis not a true representative government. The will of the majority of people in the US is not representedexcept in those cases when the desires of the majority match the policies favored by the wealthy and powerful. Their interests are more often enacted into law. We, therefore, do NOT live in a democracy. As Tim Wu points out in the New York Times, the wishes of the majority are often all but ignored: About 75 percent of Americans favor higher taxes for the ultrawealthy. The idea of a federal law that would guarantee paid maternity leave attracts 67 percent support. Eighty-three percent favor strong net neutrality rules for broadband, and more than 60 percent want stronger privacy laws. Seventy-one percent think we should be able to buy drugs imported from Canada, and 92 percent want Medicare to negotiate for lower drug prices. The list goes on. I saw Astra Taylors documentary What Is Democracy? recently, and it got me thinkingwhich is what this film is meant to do. Its not a movie that hands out answers, and it never mentions Individual 1. Im not an expert on any of this, but especially considering the times we live in, I have taken an amateurs passionate interest in wondering what this thing we claim to love so much really is. Cornel West was at the screening (he also appears in the film), and he made the point that democracy alone is not going to solve our problems or lead to some of the big changes that are needed in the US or other countries. Brown v. Board of Education, the Civil Rights Act and Womens Suffrage did not happen because they were put to a vote. In fact, West pointed out, if some of these things had been put to a vote, they probably would have been rejected. The voice of the peoplewhich is heard via votingneeds to be coupled and linked with other institutions for the whole thing to work. The rule of law, a drive for justice, a free pressI would also venture to say that if theres too much economic inequality, you cant have democracy as well. In such situations, democracy is not possible. More here. Kevin Powers in The New York Times: There is an eminently useful thought experiment with which I suspect you are familiar. It goes something like, What would an alien think of ____? The blank is typically filled in with something like sex, or our destructive relationship to the natural world, or money. War is sometimes used to fill that blank, too. The point of the thought experiment is to invent a kind of critical distance between a particular aspect of human behavior and ourselves, the ones behaving un-self-consciously like humans. This thought experiment is useful precisely because it forces a perspective so separate, or alien, that with a little luck we gain some insight into why we are the way we are or why we do the things we do, like procreate, or poison our habitat, or hoard digital proxies for paper proxies for bits of rare but not all that rare metals, or watch old people get machine-gunned to death, or firebomb medium-size German cities. Ive often thought that Slaughterhouse-Five is a variation on this kind of thought experiment; it has few if any equals in creating the kind of distance that can offer insight into the mass insanity of modern warfare. But it is so much more than a uniquely useful thought experiment on war. It is equally remarkable in the innovative way its structure is married to, and made necessary by, the story itself. Just before his capture by the Germans during the war, our hero, Billy Pilgrim, becomes unstuck in time. Later in the narrative we learn that this is a consequence of Billys subsequent abduction by Tralfamadorians, aliens who happen to be unbound by the normal limitations of time and space. Through this ingenuous device Kurt Vonnegut shows the past as an irresistible force, particularly in the case of those who have trauma at the center of their experience. The war intrudes on Billys later life in a way that will be immediately familiar to those who have fought in one. His past arrives without invitation, bouncing between the war, his childhood and his unremarkable later life as an optometrist, which is itself punctuated by visits to mental and veterans hospitals. As the narrative progresses we begin to understand that for a man who has witnessed the horrors that Billy has, the Tralfamadorians belief that the past, present and future are merely the primitive notions of Earthlings starts to sound like a comforting explanation for the intrusive nature of traumatic experience. More here. En espanol | Millions of Americans rely every day on prescription drugs to maintain their health. AARP believes its unfair that we pay the highest prices in the world and that many older adults have to choose between filling their prescriptions and buying food. AARP says the president, Congress and state governments must Stop Rx Greed and Cut Drug Prices Now. Cap out-of-pocket costs The Medicare Part D prescription drug program makes medications more affordable for millions of seniors. But 1 in 10 Part D enrollees with high out-of-pocket costs spend at least $5,200 a year on their medicines. Many of these seniors have chronic conditions meaning they are facing these high costs for the rest of their lives. This forces many to choose between food or other necessities and medicine. AARP urges Congress and state governments to pass legislation that would help seniors with high drug costs by capping their out-of-pocket costs. Protect state pharmacy assistance programs Some states offer pharmacy assistance programs to help residents pay for prescription drugs. These programs differ in each state, often helping to pay Medicare Part D premiums, deductibles and copays. AARP urges states to maintain these vital programs and more states to pass laws creating them. Allow state importation A number of states have proposed legislation to allow or explore the feasibility of importing prescription drugs from Canada. For example, under a 2018 Vermont law, the state must submit a drug importation implementation proposal to the federal government for approval by July. AARP urges states to pass such laws and the Department of Health and Human Services to approve drug importation proposals that ensure imported drugs are safe and effective. Maintain donut hole provision Congress last year helped millions of Medicare beneficiaries with high prescription costs by requiring drugmakers to absorb more of the cost of brand-name medicines for beneficiaries in the Medicare Part D donut hole. The donut hole is the coverage gap enrollees find themselves in when their total spending reaches a certain level. The law increased the share drugmakers must pay for brand-name drugs for enrollees in the gap, from 50 percent to 70 percent. Those higher payments cut what seniors have to pay out of pocket to reach the catastrophic stage where Medicare picks up more of their costs. The drug industry has been aggressively lobbying lawmakers in both parties, trying to overturn this law. AARP urges Congress to maintain the donut hole provision. Semifinal bound: SDSU knocks off Villanova to advance in FCS playoffs Jackrabbits outscore Wildcats 21-0 in second half to pick up 11th win BERNALILLO Nepotism was the overall theme at last weeks Sandoval County Commission meeting during the public comment portion of the agenda. One by one, dissenters lined up to use their three minutes of speaking time to scold Sandoval County Assessor Linda Gallegos for hiring her first cousin to fill the deputy assessor position. News of Gallegos decision was verified earlier this month by the county and by Gallegos own admission. Sandoval County Attorney Robin Hammer said county guidelines made such an action illegal but pointed out that state law allowed for it and therefore superseded county law. County resident Jean Montoya said an elected official is held to a higher standard of quality and integrity. If you squirm out on one, what else will you squirm out on? Montoya said. The last assessor was challenged on his quality of integrity and following the guidelines of the county. You know what I am referring to. She said because of former Sandoval County Assessor Tom Garcias absences from the office, she made it a point to vote for Gallegos, because she thought she would make a difference. I went across party lines to get her elected, Montoya said. Now I am suggesting that she replace her deputy, family member, voluntarily, or that the county enforce or change the ordinance she is violating. County resident Robert Lopez said if it walks like a duck, looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it must be another nepotism case in New Mexico. Why is it anytime a job comes open, whoever is doing the search, the only qualified person they can ever find is Cousin Bubba? Lopez said. Its not enough just to beat the letter of the law, he said, but public perception needs to be accounted for also. Commissioner Jay Block picked up on the subject during commissioner comments, stating he felt it is wrong for any elected official to hire family. I think the assessors deputy should resign, Block said. I dont think if youre Donald Trump or Linda Gallegos, you should have family members working for you. Block said the president shouldnt have his daughter and son-in-law in the West Wing. I think this is wrong every which way to Sunday, he said. The oath of office was administered separately to Supreme Court Justices Michael E. Vigil, C. Shannon Bacon and David K. Thomson and Court of Appeals Judge Zachary A. Ives, during a Friday investiture ceremony at the Albuquerque Convention Center. The ceremony was attended by hundreds, including members of the New Mexico judiciary, lawyers, civic leaders and family and friends of those being sworn in. In her opening remarks, New Mexico Chief Justice Judith Nakamura, called the joint Supreme Court and Court of Appeals investiture ceremony historic. Today is the first time since the courts first three justices were sworn in, in January 1912, that we have three justices being sworn in at the same time, she said, And its only the second time in nearly two decades that Supreme Court justices and a Court of Appeals judge are sharing an investiture ceremony. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham picked Ives to fill the vacancy on the New Mexico Court of Appeals created with Vigils election in November to the state Supreme Court. Then the governor named Bacon to fill the seat left open by the retirement of Justice Charles Daniels, and she named Thomson to the seat left open by the retirement of Justice Petra Maes. Bacon had been a judge in the 2nd Judicial District in Bernalillo County since 2010, serving as the presiding judge for the Civil Division, as well as a water judge. Bacon has been an adjunct professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law, and is a former partner at two Albuquerque law firms. A graduate of St. Pius X High School, she went on to receive her bachelors degree and her law degree from Creighton University in Omaha. She was admitted to the State Bar of New Mexico in 1997. Thomson has been a judge in the 1st Judicial District Court, covering Santa Fe, Rio Arriba and Los Alamos counties, serving since 2014. He previously worked for more than a decade in the state Attorney Generals Office, where he served as deputy attorney general and director of the litigation division. Thomson graduated from Santa Fe High School. He received a bachelors degree from Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn., and his law degree from the University of Denver. He was admitted to the State Bar of New Mexico in 1999. Vigil served as judge and chief judge on the New Mexico Court of Appeals. He was appointed to the Court of Appeals in 2003 by then-Gov. Bill Richardson, and elected in 2004. Previously, he was a private practice attorney and an attorney in the Pre-Hearing Division of the New Mexico Court of Appeals. He is a graduate of Santa Fe High School and received a bachelors degree from the College of Santa Fe before attending the Georgetown University Law Center. He later joined the National Guard, and he was among those dispatched to the State Penitentiary riot in 1980. Ives has been an attorney with a number of law firms and has also been in solo practice for 17 years, practicing in state and federal courts, with extensive experience in criminal, appellate, commercial and personal injury law, according to a news release. He clerked under former Chief Justice Pamela Minzner of the New Mexico Supreme Court and received his law degree from the University of New Mexico in 2000. He was admitted to the New Mexico bar the same year. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal Two teenage boys were riddled with bullets, beaten and stabbed before being buried together in a shallow grave in Sandoval County late last year, according to autopsy reports released Friday afternoon. Investigators said many of the bullets were fired through the boys arms and legs and werent fatal. The findings by the Office of the Medical Investigator paint a grisly picture of the murders of Ahmed Lateef, 14, and Collin Romero, 15, and back up an Albuquerque police detectives descriptions that the boys were tortured before they were killed. The bodies were discovered on Dec. 29 in the remote mesa west of Rio Rancho by a cadaver dog and Sandoval County deputies. They had been missing for two weeks. What these monsters did to my son and his best friend, (they) will have to answer one way or another, Collins mother, Amanda Romero, told the Journal on Friday. They may have stolen their lives, but they cant take the 15 years we had with them. Anthony Aragon, 36, faces two counts of tampering with evidence in the boys burial, but murder charges have not been filed in their deaths. Due to the complexity of the case detectives are working on all investigative leads prior to filing charges, Albuquerque police spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said Friday. We are working hand in hand with prosecutors of the Bernalillo County District Attorneys Office to ensure a quality case is made available for prosecution. The homicides will be added to last years total, bringing the tally of 2018 slayings to 68. Nineteen-year-old Stephen Goldman has been implicated but not charged in this case. During a March 1 detention hearing in an unrelated case, APD detective Jessie Carter testified that Goldman who also goes by Sunshine and Calypso played a direct role in the double homicide. Goldman is in jail in connection with an unrelated armed robbery and drive-by shooting. Carter testified that Goldman and two others, who have not been identified, kidnapped Lateef and Romero after an Albuquerque drug deal went awry and drove them to a remote area, where they were tortured and killed. According to the autopsy report, Lateef was shot 19 times, eight of which were either lethal or potentially lethal. He was shot nine times in the upper body and 10 times through his arms and legs. Lateef was also badly bruised, was cut in various places, and his teeth were broken. Investigators say Romero was shot nine times, three in the head, once in the chest and four times in the foot, leg and shoulder. He was also beaten in the head and legs and stabbed in the knees. Bullets of varying size were pulled from both bodies during the autopsies. During his testimony, detective Carter said after the boys were killed they were left on the side of a dirt road and later collected by Aragon and others to be buried farther away in Sandoval County. He said the car used to transport the bodies was torched on tribal lands and he implicated Goldmans father in the vehicle disposal. Carter said Goldman fled to his sisters home in Gresham, Ore., after the killings. Local police arrested him after a SWAT standoff. While in their custody, police say, Goldman had a notebook with lyrics describing the double homicides and asking for forgiveness. I dont forgive and I definitely wont forget, Romeros mother said. It takes an evil person to do what they did and its just a reminder for us all that true evil walks amongst us. Its up to every citizen to put a stop to it. Lateefs mother, Yasameen Alabdulaziz said that since her sons death she sees a therapist, has been diagnosed with depression and takes numerous medications to battle it. Soon, she plans to move back to Iraq with Lateefs younger brother and start from square one. I cry every day. All my life changed after that, Alabdulaziz said. I dont have a job, I dont have anything. Everything is too hard for me. The Energy Transition Act, Senate Bill 489, made its way to the governors desk and was signed into law Friday creating the opportunity for our state to become a clean energy leader. With this bold piece of legislation, New Mexico can now diversify its economy by investing to develop our clean energy industry. Most importantly, this represents a chance for every New Mexican family to be able to access the emerging clean, safe and good-paying jobs, ensuring our children and communities can thrive. While SB 489 has solidified the fact that New Mexicans understand our move to a clean energy world is not a matter of why, rather a matter of when, there have been many questions of how we will ensure we do not leave New Mexican communities behind. Knowing workers in rural and indigenous communities continue to have very few choices when it comes to job opportunities and could be left behind as clean energy jobs are created, preparing our workforce for the emerging clean energy economy has become one of our states top-most priorities. The investment in this preparation is essential, knowing this will help to level the playing field, foster family stability and bring brighter futures for children across New Mexico while putting New Mexicans first. This year, we have jump-started the process of creating a blueprint for this clean energy future for rural communities through the Clean Energy Workforce Development Study. This blueprint will ensure that our rural, indigenous and communities of color are not left behind and are afforded access to every resource necessary to take advantage of the exciting new job opportunities in the years ahead. With this study, the expertise of the Department of Workforce Solutions will be enlisted to accomplish the following time-critical objectives: Prepare a report with recommendations by July 15, 2020, on the opportunities for and barriers to preparing and transitioning to a clean energy economy in low-income and rural communities. Study and provide recommendations on the need for increased education, career, technical education, job training and workforce development to help industries, workers and communities gain access to clean energy jobs. Identify in its report disadvantaged communities to prioritize for economic development opportunities in preparation for a sustainable, clean energy economy. A final report will be provided to the governor and presented to the Economic and Rural Development interim committee that addresses economic development issues by Oct. 1, 2020. The right path for thriving rural and indigenous communities in New Mexico comes in the form of wind and solar energy accompanied by strong investments in job training, apprenticeships and other employment services for local workers. We believe everyone who works hard deserves a chance to prosper and, in order to thrive, we will ensure rural workers have a fair shot at these clean, safe and good-paying jobs. Our rural economies will be built on our strengths: clean energy sources and hardworking, rural workers. The Affordable Care Act was supposed to help alleviate the all-too-common issue of medical bankruptcy. Unfortunately, we still see too many examples of online pleas from individuals desperate for help to pay for a variety of medical expenses, including prescription drugs. In a country with as much money and resources as the United States, thats unacceptable. A lot of this crowdfunding charity is necessary because of vast variations in drug prices. When we fill our prescriptions at our local pharmacy, we assume that the price we pay isnt too different from the prices down the road, or even across the state. Unfortunately, that is not true. U.S. PIRGs The Real Price of Medications found that prices can vary, on average, up to nine times from the cheapest price nationally. Why? The simple answer is because patients arent aware of their options, so prices are based on what patients will pay, not what they should pay. At the start of the supply chain, drug manufacturers have a stranglehold on the patents that give them the rights to set the prices on life-saving medications. Next, wholesalers, pharmacies and other middlemen engage in hidden negotiations trading discounts and rebates back and forth while hiking prices at each step in the process. All the while, were paying more if we can afford the medicine at all without getting any healthier than if wed spent less. Underlying all these price hikes is a simple truth: all the players know that patients cant afford to walk away from their medications like they can when businesses try to price-gouge them on products that dont affect their health. Patients can save now by shopping around, but that often requires a large amount of time and effort for both research and getting to and from the cheapest, closest pharmacy. Thats time many people dont have to spare. Our broken prescription drug system needs to be and can be fixed. Congress and state legislatures are engaging on the issue of drug pricing this year more than in years past, and the Trump administration is also weighing in, rolling out price reforms that take a step in the right direction. The focus should be on transparency, competition and protecting Americans from price-gouging. We need to shine a light on the pricing negotiations that take place throughout the supply chain, because transparency is the foundation on which we can build true reform. We need patent reform that allows generic drugs to come to market more quickly and stops brand-name drug companies from abusing their patent-protected monopolies. Finally, its time for the United States to institute policies to ensure that our health system puts patients above profits and prevents high drug prices from jeopardizing the health of millions of Americans. When the mass shooting suspect was led into a Christchurch, New Zealand, courtroom photographers captured his shackled image. The judge then ordered that the face of Brenton Harris Tarrant, accused of the worst mass murder in New Zealand history, be blurred from public view to ensure he gets a fair trial. What a quaint judicial order in this media-saturated day and age. Once the defendants name was revealed in court, enterprising reporters simply rushed to social media and almost instantaneously found photographs of Tarrant. His face and political affiliations posted by him for all to see were transmitted to the world within a matter of minutes. That said, the New Zealand judges order came from a thoughtful place, the idea that everything possible must be done by the court to ensure fair and impartial trials. That is a good thing. It makes me wonder about Americas justice system. We profess an allegiance to blind justice, yet steps are taken that can automatically taint the accused. Suspects are publicly displayed for television cameras, and their mugshots are widely distributed. Its a paradox. We say innocent until proven guilty, but how many innocent people wear handcuffs or take pictures with an arrest number scrawled underneath? Many police departments proudly post their mugshots online or regularly take out full-page ads showing them in local newspapers. It can be a counter to claims of racial profiling and a way to show the citizenry that officers are on the job. The media obviously likes the transparency. Automatic release of mugshots adds to the information they can gather and disseminate to the public. And these are good things, too. But is our system fair? Think of the tear-and-mascara smudged mugshot of the neighbor girl caught driving under the influence or the police photo of your friend who was falsely accused looking like a deer in the headlights. They were photographed on the worst day of their lives, and their photos underscore the problem with mugshots. Long after the case is over even if the suspect was fully cleared the unflattering image can live on in digital perpetuity. This is a bad thing. Several internet-based scavenger companies have popped up to capitalize on the humiliation. The operators of Mugshots.com are due in a California court later this month to answer extortion and money laundering charges. Their lucrative business combs through police and sheriffs department websites and then posts the photos and arrest details on line. If someone wanted their mugshot removed, they were directed to a companion site that charged thousands of dollars to de-publish the post. California authorities say the firm collected more than $2 million from more than 5,700 people all across the country. Those who cant afford to pay into this scheme to have their information removed pay the price when they look for a job, housing, or try to build relationships with others, Attorney General Xavier Becerra said. This is exploitation, plain and simple. Imagine how a mugshot could haunt mascara girl as she applies for college. In federal court in Pennsylvania, the defendant isnt a company but a government entity. A class-action suit is ongoing against Bucks County and its Correctional Institute for their policy of posting mugshots on the jails website and leaving them there permanently. The lead plaintiff is a man whose arrest record was expunged but his mugshot lived on, online, for years until the pending litigation forced a change. If the court rules against the county in this class-action suit, some court watchers believe it could open the way for tens of thousands of convicts to file claims. Sociologist Sarah Esther Lageson has studied the explosive impact of digitally shared mugshots for a decade. Citing the exploitation by companies that make money from publishing the photos, she wrote recently that, Its time for the mugshot digital economy to die. It is easy to agree that those who extort money through mugshots should be stopped. Its not freedom of speech; it is exploitation. It is also clear that permanently displayed mugshots can needlessly disgrace those who were found not guilty or those who served their time and are working hard to move on to a better life. Yet governments have a responsibility to protect and serve citizens, and many will say publishing mugshots informs the public about the character of those around them and helps those seeking background information on strangers that come into their lives. As was proven in the New Zealand case, blurring a face or withholding a mugshot doesnt mean the public is kept in the dark. It just means that to fully inform the public, reporters have to work a different way. With todays plethora of social media, it is not that difficult to find a photo of the accused. In fact, they probably posted it in the digital public square themselves. As everyone knows, whats posted on Facebook pretty much stays on Facebook forever. Diane@DianeDimond.com. EL PASO, Texas A West Texas sheriffs deputy was critically wounded Friday after being shot multiple times during a traffic stop, but authorities credited the body armor with saving his life. El Paso County Sheriffs Office spokesman Robert Flores identified the wounded deputy as Peter Herrera. He was shot around 1:50 a.m. Friday after he stopped a vehicle in San Elizario, southeast of El Paso along the U.S.-Mexico border. A man in the vehicle started shooting at Herrera after the deputy asked the driver to step out of the car, authorities said. Herrera did not return fire, Flores said, and the shooter fled on foot along with a female passenger. Deputies found the pair hiding in a tool shed a few blocks away from where the deputy was shot, Flores said. Thankfully he was wearing a vest, Flores said. The rounds that actually struck some of the more vital areas of his upper body were stopped by the vest. One round did strike Herrera in the upper thigh and another grazed his head, Flores said. Herrera was listed in critical but stable condition after undergoing surgery and was recovering in an area hospital. The suspected gunman, Facundo Chavez, 27, was booked into the El Paso County Jail without bond on attempted capital murder of a peace officer and other charges. Online jail records list no attorney for Chavez. Flores said investigators were trying to clarify the complicated relationship between the shooting suspect and the woman who was in the car. The woman cooperated with law enforcement and was released from custody, authorities said. Car trouble played a role in helping deputies track down the shooting suspect, Flores said. The vehicle, it stalled out on him, the spokesman said. It definitely helped us solve this crime. Dozens of fellow deputies and other law enforcement officers from the El Paso Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety lined up in the sheriff offices parking lot to donate blood and plasma Friday during a drive held to benefit Herrera, who has been a deputy for five years. Were brothers, said Detective Alan Gurtler, a 30-year veteran of the sheriffs office who was preparing to donate plasma in a mobile blood drive bus. (An) incident like this with a deputy getting shot multiple times in serious condition, its very rare here. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal The Bernalillo County District Attorneys Office is asking the state Supreme Court to consider whether a judge can release a defendant solely based on technical problems within a prosecutors request for detention. Its the latest chapter in what seems like a never-ending struggle over pretrial detention motions, which prosecutors must file to keep a defendant who is believed to be a flight risk or a danger to the community behind bars pending trial. This time, attorneys say, the fight centers on spacing, font size and the practice of the DAs Office of pasting large chunks of the criminal complaint narrative into the body of a motion. Defense attorney Jonathan Ibarra says the boilerplate motions had been over-relying on information about the current crime, without addressing whether or not a defendant might do well with the proper conditions of release. In some circumstances, the complaint narrative appeared to have been scanned in, cut out of its original document and then pasted into the motion in its original font and format. Ibarra said the resulting motions often included superfluous information that was sometimes reprinted in an illegible size. In a handful of cases, judges levied fines against the DAs Office for different types of format infractions, DAs Office spokesman Michael Patrick said. In the case of Jesus Cabral, Judge Stan Whitaker denied the states detention request because of the formatting of the motion, prosecutors say. The judge ordered Cabrals release on what the court itself described as a technicality.' Prosecutors say that decision prioritizes formatting over public safety. On Monday, they asked the states highest court to review Cabrals case and to consider whether the judge made the right decision when he denied the motion and released Cabral. The 31-year-old is accused of threatening a Home Depot security guard at gunpoint as he and a companion stole a power drill. After he was released, he failed to appear for a subsequent detention hearing and was ultimately arrested when sheriffs deputies found him behind an enclosed locked fence at a public pool in the South Valley at 4:53 a.m., according to court documents. He ran from deputies, and after he was caught, he provided a fake name. Despite Mondays filing, both sides agree that the detention motion situation has improved in recent weeks. They have finally started doing something that looks like a real motion, Ibarra said Monday. Thats a nice change. Ibarra said a more substantive motion lets defense attorneys prepare to argue for their clients. At stake, he said, is a defendants liberty over the months sometimes years between arrest and sentencing. Its important to us to know what were fighting against, Ibarra said, instead of having these motions that dont really say anything and the state comes in and argues things we dont know about. Patrick says the recent change came shortly after an informal meeting between the district attorney and the courts chief judge. The DAs Office has started including a shorter summary of the allegations in its motions that are in the same font and format as the rest of the motion. And so although Patrick says were at a good place right now, Supreme Court intervention could mean a more uniform solution that wont get changed down the road. At some point, a defendant released for a technical violation of the rules will harm a member of the community, prosecutor James Grayson wrote in the petition filed Monday. Pretrial detention motions have undergone several renovations in the years since the practice became legal. Ibarra said motions started out as generic forms including a short handwritten summary of the case. They later moved to typewritten motions with essentially no facts. That morphed into a version with the complaint scanned and pasted in. Prosecutors say the most recent iteration was a version where all of the text was taken out of the complaint and pasted into the motion. In Mondays filing, prosecutors wrote that theyve never ignored the courts concerns and theyve repeatedly revised their motions to fix problems identified by the court. I think theres been some sort of Goldilocks situation going on, a prosecutor said at a detention hearing early this month. Theres not enough, now theres too much. PHILADELPHIA With the long-awaited special counsels investigation finished but its contents still shrouded in mystery, Americans waited for details, yawned with boredom or stayed fixed to their long-cemented positions on President Donald Trump, the man at the probes center. For all the expected splash of Robert Muellers report, it arrived with more of a thud, thanks to the secrecy surrounding it. Few saw reason to think it would sway many opinions in a divided republic. Helen Jones, a 72-year-old retired English professor in Salt Lake City, Utah, who is Republican but despises Trump, knows whatever comes out, her relatives who strongly back the president wont budge just as detractors like her wont be convinced he isnt a crook. She sees no simple end in sight. I think its just the beginning, said Jones, a political junkie who called the moment a historic one like Watergate. I hope its a turning point in the Trump presidency. Across ideology, many expressed relief Saturday that the investigation was finally over. Now maybe we can move on to better things, said Bubba Metts, a 61-year-old conservative who is a financial adviser in Lexington, South Carolina. Twenty million dollars spent for nothing. Dajah Harris, 21, a college senior at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, is a Democrat and no fan of Trump. But she saw the investigation as a distraction from more important things like homelessness, college debt and welfare programs. The country should never have elected someone, she said, whose background raises such questions. I dont feel that where the country is right now that this is something we should even be discussing, she said. Mueller worked in virtual silence as a stream of charges have flowed forth against 37 people and companies. From the start, with his appointment on May 17, 2017, some have framed his work as a battle of good and evil of biblical proportions. And on the 675th day, Mueller finished his work, and he rested. But nothing immediately changed for those who had watched with bated breath. For Mark Itzen, a 64-year-old social worker from Levittown, Pennsylvania, it was a frustrating reality. The most disturbing thing for me is that we dont know the details, the Democrat said. I thought we have the right to know right off the bat after all this anticipation. Expectations remained high for some sort of explosive revelation, but what exactly it might be remained anyones guess. For liberals who welcomed the investigation with gleeful shouts of Its Mueller Time! and anxiously awaited justice that aligns with their view of Trump as Antichrist, it seemed the endless billows of smoke would surely produce evidence of fire. For conservatives who subscribed to the presidents view of the probe as a witch hunt and dismissed it as the misguided tomfoolery of a bitter opposition whose search for retribution is as loopy as its policies, it seemed certain to bring exoneration to Trump and maybe even a roadmap for future victory by him and his party. Jason Cox, a 51-year-old farmer in Campbellsville, Kentucky, who voted for Trump in 2016 and plans to again next year, saw it the way Trump framed it as a witch hunt. It didnt turn out, it seems to me, the way Democrats wanted, he said. I think Pelosi and Schumer are going to just keep beating and badgering and looking for something. Stanley Twardy, legal adviser to Republicans for the Rule of Law, which worked to protect the Mueller investigation from political interference, said the report wont bring a quick end to anything. Its not like the report will be issued and everybody says, OK, were done now,' he said. This is all part of a process. The process will work its way out. This is why our country has stood the test of time. Shaela and Cindy Buchanan were tackling chores Saturday morning at the Lost Sock Laundromat in Wichita, Kansas, when the topic of Mueller was raised. Which one is Mueller? asked Cindy, a 51-year-old manager at a paint company. She doesnt follow politics closely but liked Trump at first. The questions about Russia, though, caused the 51-year-old paint company manager to reconsider. Her 48-year-old wife Shaela, who considers herself a political independent, sees Trump as bought and paid for while regular people live paycheck to paycheck. She doubts Muellers report ultimately does anything to change that. I dont feel it is over once it is released, Shaela Buchanan said. People any more they have suffered to the point they dont have any power it doesnt matter. Peter Malak, a 42-year-old high school civics teacher from northeastern North Carolina, offered similar thoughts. He calls himself a swing voter who tends to lean right. While the media obsess over the Mueller report, he said, most Americans just want to pay their mortgages. The average person just doesnt care, he said, while stopping for a haircut. Your life is going to go on either way, regardless of what the Mueller investigation comes out to be. ___ Sedensky can be reached at msedensky@ap.org and https://twitter.com/sedensky ___ Contributing to this report were Mike Catalini in Morrisville, Pennsylvania; Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia; Claire Galofaro in Louisville, Kentucky; Allen Breed in Wake Forest, North Carolina; Jennifer McDermott in Providence, Rhode Island; Adam Beam in Frankfort, Kentucky; Lindsay Whitehurst in Salt Lake City, Utah; Hannah Grabenstein in Little Rock, Arkansas; Jeffrey Collins in Columbia, South Carolina; Roxana Hegeman in Wichita, Kansas; Sarah Blake Morgan in Charlotte, North Carolina; and Elliott Spagat in Solana Beach, California. PHOENIX Arizona wildlife officials say three endangered Mexican gray wolves, including two in New Mexico, died last month. The Arizona Game and Fish Department said in a news release Friday that the latest incidents means there have been four wolf deaths so far this year. One from a pack in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest died after it was captured to replace a faulty GPS collar. Another from a pack in the north-central area of the Gila National Forest was found dead. The third wolf was a single collared one in New Mexico. Officials did not say in what part of the state it dwelled. All the deaths are under investigation. Efforts to reintroduce the endangered wolves in Arizona and New Mexico have been ongoing for two decades. UPDATED 9:52 a.m. Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019 - The three suspects who were arrested Friday in Chico for a home invasion have been identified. Here are their names, ages and their photographs. Barry Eastman of Chico, 22 years old Tolynn Scott of Chico, 20 years old Marjon Blount of Chico, 22 years old --- CHICO, Calif. - Chico Police said three men who robbed a house at gunpoint are behind bars Friday night. The men led police on a chase that ended in a crash. Chico police said around 5:40 p.m., three men armed with firearms robbed a house on Chestnut Street and West 11th Street. Sergeant Omar Pena wouldn't confirm if the robbers knew anyone inside the house. Sergeant Pena said men took marijuana, but would not say if anything else was taken. The men drove off and police chased after them, according to Sergeant Pena. The car chase ended on Cactus Avenue when the suspects crashed into a utility box. Police said the suspects ran off, but they were soon found in the area and arrested. Several neighbors told Action News Now they've had a lot of trouble in the area and Friday night's events didn't surprise them. "It doesn't because I live on a busy street. What surprises me is I see an increase in incidents. This is what I consider the nicer parts of Chico, even my neighbors say we're all seeing changes to higher incidents," said a neighbor to Action News Now. "It's definitely scary, makes you think twice about what you do, locking your doors of course," said another neighbor to Action News Now. Sergeant Pena said the robbers were trying to steal marijuana. Police are still investigating whether anything else was taken. The Chico police department said the three men are facing armed robbery charges. As the investigation continues, other charges may be pending. Sergeant Pena said it is too early to say whether these suspects had anything to do with any of the other armed robberies in Chico earlier this year. BLASTING AND ROAD CLOSURE SCHEDULED Saturday, Mar. 23, 2019 Oroville Dam Blvd East will be closed for an estimated thirty minutes for construction blasting on Saturday from approximately 3:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Drivers who wish to avoid this delay at Canyon Drive or Glen Drive can bypass the closed portion, via 1) Canyon Drive to Olive Highway or 2) Glen Drive to Oro-Quincy Highway to Olive Highway. The short blasting is part of the post-construction site restoration on the hillsides near the spillway. DWR has been conducting controlled blasting at the Oroville spillways construction site since May of 2017. DWR has obtained required permits for the controlled light charge blasting from its state and federal regulatory partners, as well as the Butte County Sheriffs Department and the Butte County Air Quality Management District. According to the Department of Water Resources (DWR), ontrolled light charge blasting is a safe and a common practice at dam construction sites throughout the United States. Seismographs are located throughout the project area in Oroville in order to monitor movements and to make sure recorded vibrations are within safe levels, said DWR officials. The blasting will be similar to those completed in the past several weeks. The DWR said they anticipate similar noise levels locally. They apologize for any inconvenience and thank for your "continued patience." Amidst the vast wilderness, the survival of the fittest truly determines life and death. But what happens when your fight for survival brings with it the dangers of the wild? Witness a young boy unleash his inner warrior and struggle as he travels through treacherous landscapes in the epic-adventure film Alpha. For the first time on television, &flix, the destination for the biggest Hollywood hits, is set to premiere the adventure-drama film Alpha, this Sunday, March 24, at 1PM and 9PM. The film will also be telecast as a part of Club Prive, a property of &PriveHD on March 24, 3PM and on Zee Cafe at 2PM on the same day. Directed by the award-winning filmmaker Albert Hughes and supported by a powerful performance by Australian actor Kodi Smit-McPhee, the film gives you a chance to #LeapForth into a world where life is earned and not given. Join a young mans unflinching determination to a journey back home. Set against the backdrop of prehistoric Europe, Alpha traces the life of young Keda who is separated from his tribe during his first hunt ever. Naive yet fearless, Keda takes it upon himself to find his way back home and unite with his family. Barely surviving alone, the poor chap encounters a life-defying attack from a pack of wolves with him barely making it through. Injured and lonely, he chances upon an abandoned and ailing wolf and reluctantly tends to him. Enemy-turned-ally, Keda soon befriends the wolf and together they meander through the caves and trek through a harsh and unforgiving landscape to make it home before winter. Will they succeed in this mission? Witness the heart-warming bond between a man and wolf, as &flix is all set to air Alpha on Sunday, March 24 at 1PM and 9PM Catch the film on &PriveHD at 3PM And Zee Cafe at 2PM As Indian travellers look for rich travel experiences in a burgeoning luxury travel industry, National Geographic Expeditions launches in India. Urging people to gather authentic experiences and explore the unknown, National Geographic Expeditions will help Indian travellers gain access to people and places, get enriched by the knowledge of National Geographic experts and guides. Furthermore, when you travel with National Geographic Expeditions you give back since proceeds from National Geographic Expeditions travel programs support the National Geographic Societys efforts to increase global understanding through exploration, education and scientific research. Gary Knell, Chairman of National Geographic Partners announced the launch of National Geographic Expeditions as a part of his tour of India, and unveiled the India specific website www.natgeoexpeditions.in Imagine observing lions on the prowl in the Serengeti with a wildlife biologist, examining ancient ruins in Peru with an archaeologist, or shooting images in Italy alongside a National Geographic photographer. From photography to history to marine biology, our National Geographic experts offer enriching expedition experiences through fascinating presentations and informal discussions. The customised trips have been offered globally and will now be available to discerning Indian travellers in local currency with completely localized fulfilment and servicing for the travel bookings. Creating authentic and memorable experiences, the National Geographic Expeditions trips are designed to reflect travellers broad spectrum of interests and enable truly experiential travel. National Geographic Expeditions was founded to support the National Geographic Society's 131-year mission to inspire people to care about the planet by providing meaningful opportunities to explore it. Each expedition invite travellers to explore and encounter the wonders of the world up close, in depth, right at the source, and be transformed by the experience. Commenting on the National Geographic Expeditions launch in India, Gary Knell, Chairman of National Geographic & Partners said, National Geographic Expeditions span the globe on all seven continents and are designed to reflect our travellers broad spectrum of interests. We are delighted to bring National Geographic Expeditions to free-spirited Indian travellers and are looking forward to providing them authentic travel experiences. The itineraries designed under the program will help travellers immerse themselves in the heart of the places and cultures they visit. Moreover, our Expeditions will be accompanied by a National Geographic expert- including photographers, explorers and writers- for an unrivalled travel experience. We are hopeful that with this proposition, we will be able to cater to people who believe in not just visiting a destination but truly exploring. Some of the packages to watch for: Emblematic Antarctica Discover the Antarctic on a polar expedition cruise to the heart of the icy realm that is the Antarctic Peninsula and the Weddell Sea. Embark on an unforgettable 11-day voyage and succumb to the enchantment of the breath taking landscapes inhabited by astonishing wildlife. Around the World by Private Jet Embark on a globe-trotting expedition featuring 15 UNESCO World Heritage sites, from Easter Island to the Great Barrier Reef. Alongside a team of National Geographic experts in the field of marine biology, anthropology, archaeology, and paleontology, the expedition will help you gain insight into local cultures. Tanzania Photo Safari An absolute treat for photography enthusiasts who can learn how best to work with movement and light as they get to frame dazzling herds of zebra, lolling lions, and a colorful spectrum of birds. For more information on these expeditions, as well as other exciting expeditions log onto www.nategoexpeditions.in Tripoto, the global travel community, is partnering with Morris Garages (MG) India, the iconic British Automaker, for immersive video solutions, offering to boost awareness and sustain interest about the brand ahead of its India launch this year. Tripoto is creating a non-fiction travel web series, World of MG: An Indian Abroad, which will be shot in 6 different countries before concluding in India. Tripoto has collaborated with actor and model, Amol Parashar, for the 7-season web series, 1 season each for seven countries. Amol will be travelling to all 7 countries, promoting and sustaining Morris Garages as the worlds foremost luxury car brand. The series will have Amol bring to life how Morris Garages has been a part of these countries through their culture, food, revelry and cars. Talking about World of MG: An Indian Abroad, Michael Pargal Lyngdoh, Co-founder, Tripoto, said, The digital renaissance in our country has trigerred the youth to turn to the internet for alternative and shareable content. Web Series have become an impactful way to present a brand and create lasting conversations. Through World of MG: An Indian Abroad, we aim to build a connection for Morris Garages (MG) India amongst our strong and active community of more than 25 Mn+ travelers. Speaking on their association woth Tripoto, Pallavi Singh, Marketing Head, Morris Garages (MG) India India, said, Since the inception of the brand in 1924, storytelling has been an integral part of MG. In India, we have been following in the footsteps by focussing on powerful, emotive video content using new-age digital tools and formats. Weve had a great association with Tripoto in the past with #RoadToMGLive! Through World of MG: An Indian Abroad series, we hope to take this association further ahead by giving a peek into MGs global presence across the world and thereby, letting communities experience the local cultural flavour. The first of season of the series, shot in Thailand will go live on Tripotos social media channels and its website (www.tripoto.com) from March 14 onwards. The four episodes will be shown back to back each day from March 14 to March 17. Apart from Thailand, World of MG: An Indian Abroad has been shot in China and other countries in his travel map are Egypt, Australia, United Arab Emirates, South Africa and then culminating in India. Every icon has an origin story. Initially designed as a staple that could withstand the work of ranch hands and rodeo cowboys, Wrangler denim soon became a revolutionary style move for the icons. Its simple functionality and outlaw appeal made Wrangler a natural choice for artists, musicians, and actors always looking to set trends and blaze new trails. To celebrate this authentic attitude and era-defining style, Wrangler introduces its Icons Collection of jeans, shirts and jackets for a generation who will create and be part of the iconic moments of today. Six iconic denim styles, steeped in heritage and forever linked to the 70-year Wrangler journey, have been re-issued and re-styled for the modern world. The definitive, cult icons are available in four different stages of wear and fade to give the collection its unique edge (new, one year, two years and three years): New: Denim comes in crisp, rich, and dark, straight from the mill. One year: Darker fade patterns recall a year of wear, while keeping to the denim connoisseurs trend for rarely washing jeans. Two year: The lighter, less contrasted look of faded denim that comes from two years of wearing and washing regularly. Three year: In line with the evolution of the no wash trend, this denim recreates the look of a jean that has been washed only a handful of times, with authentic fade patterns. 11MWZ, Mens Western Zipper: For the 2019 reissue, the original styles exaggerated kick,historically cut generously to fit over a cowboy boot, is streamlined for todays consumer. Otherwise, with the same slim profile, higher rise and original tobacco stitching against the revolutionary broken twill denim, its just as any mid-century rodeo star would remember it. Available in new, one- year, two-year and three-year wear and fade patterns. 124MJ, Mens Western Jacket: The archetypal denim jacket, Steve McQueen wore it buttoned up and collar popped, while John Lennon took a more bohemian approach, wearing his open and over a shirt or sweater. Regardless of how you style it, the design is timeless, and the reissue is virtually unchanged. The sleeves are slimmed, and the body is slightly lengthened and the proportions, positioning of the heritage tobacco stitching, rounded pocket flaps and copper buttons are all true to the original. Available in new and three-year. 27MW, Mens Western Shirt: Created for cowboys but embraced by rock stars, the 27MW launched in the mid-1960s, this piece quickly became a blueprint for the western-style shirt. The reissue remains faithful to the original, with authentic detailing on the shape and depth of the yokes, cuffs and plackets, color and positioning of the stitching, and iconic details such as the W pocket stitching and pearl snaps. Available in new and one-year. Beginning late February, the Wrangler ICONS collection will be available at key Wrangler outlets. The collection ranges from Rs.3195 to Rs.4295. In tandem with Zee Telugus promise to encourage women to take a lead in their life, the channel is launching a new fiction show, Akka Chellellu, a story on two independent twins with contrasting personalities, and yet leading their lives together under the same roof. The fiction show is starring Chaitra Rai, who is known for her act in That is Mahalaxmi, as both the twins, Sravani and Dharani. The story beautifully captures the lives of two tenacious women in their journey of life. This new show is launching on March 25th, from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM, only on Zee Telugu and Zee Telugu HD. Sravani and Dharani, two differing twin sisters hail from a lower middle-class family, where their father works several odd jobs to give them a better life. Sravani is a self-centred and ambitious girl who has no worries. While Dharani is considerate in nature as she recognizes the challenges and sacrifices made by their father to educate and raise them. Dharani forfeits her education and other comforts for Sravani to pursue her higher studies and lead a cushy life, in order to lessen the burden of their father. Sravani grows up to achieve all her dreams and become a criminal lawyer. Watch the story unfold as Sravani and Dharani are destined to live under the same roof even after their marriage. Tune-in to watch Akka Chellellu starting March 25th, from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM, only on Zee Telugu and Zee Telugu HD. Note from the Editor-at-Large. The editors at Age of Autism want to clarify the record on the leak of the vaxxed/unvaxxed paper. We were in possession of an embargoed draft of the paper when it was set to be published on line in late November by the journal Frontiers in Pediatrics. Dan Olmsted and I had written a news story on the study, a revised version of which we have now published below. We respected the embargo at every stage and have never published anything about the study or its findings until today. Via different channels, a draft copy of the paper was published on a different web-site and has now become widely available. That makes the study and its leaked contents news that is highly relevant to our readers, so we are obligated to cover the story. We do so with sadness, since we share the concerns of many that this leak jeopardizes subsequent publication of the study, thereby impairing its scientific impact. By Mark Blaxill In a development that autism parents have long anticipated, the first-ever, peer-reviewed study comparing total health outcomes in vaccinated and unvaccinated children was released on line yesterday. According to sources close to the project, the study had been reviewed and accepted by two different journals, both of which pulled back on their approval once the political implications of the findings became clear. Thats largely because, as parents have long expected, the rate of autism is significantly higher in the vaccinated group, a finding that could shake vaccine safety claims just as the first president who has ever stated a belief in a link between vaccines and autism has taken office. Working in partnership with the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI), Dr. Anthony Mawson led a research team that investigated the relationship between vaccination exposures and a range of over 40 acute and chronic illnesses in home schooled children, a population chosen for its high proportion of unvaccinated children. Surveying families in four states--Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Oregonthe study (officially titled Vaccination and Health Outcomes: A Survey of 6- to 12-year-old Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Children based on Mothers Reports), reported a number of startling findings. Vaccinated children were significantly more likely than the unvaccinated to have been diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder: most notably, the risk of being affected by an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) was 4.7 fold higher in vaccinated children; as well, ADHD risk was 4.7 fold higher and learning disability risk was 3.7 fold higher. Overall, the vaccinated children in the study were 3.7 times more likely to have been diagnosed with some kind of neurodevelopmental disorder. Vaccinated children were also significantly more likely to be diagnosed with an immune-related disorder. The risk of allergic rhinitis (commonly known as hay fever) was over 30 times higher in vaccinated children, while the risk of other allergies was increased 3.9 fold and the eczema risk was increased 2.4 fold. With respect to acute illness and infectious disease the outcomes were in some respects surprising. As might be expected, unvaccinated children were significantly (4-10 times) more likely to have come down with chicken pox, rubella or pertussis. Perhaps unexpectedly, the unvaccinated children were less likely to suffer from otitis media and pneumonia: vaccinated children had 3.8 times greater odds of a middle ear infection and 5.9 times greater odds of a bout with pneumonia. The study was based on a survey with participants recruited in a process led by NHERI and coordinated through 84 state and local homeschool groups. The survey itself was, according to the authors, nonbiased and neutrally worded. These findings in a study population of 666 children, 261 of whom (39%) were unvaccinated, are sure to stir controversy, in part because it is the first of its kind. The scientific literature on the long-term effects of the vaccination program is virtually silent. Most studies on the safety of vaccines only consider immediate or short-term effects. There was no obvious explanation for the differences in health outcomes observed between the vaccinated and unvaccinated groups of children other than vaccination itself. Thank you to Brett Wilcox from his blog RunningTheCountry for sharing this letter he wrote. America was founded on religious freedom. And yet even here in my colonial state of Connecticut, religious vaccination exemptions are threatened. This about it. If Gardasil is mandated for your son and daughter - and it is a vaccine for a sexually transmitted disease - should you have the right to say "No thank you" for your 11 or 12 year old, perhaps allowing them to make the choice at 18? If the vaccine is mandated on the school schedule, also in play in many states, then you will not have the right to say no without perhaps even being barred from school attendance. For not taking a vaccine for an activity-preventable disease. The media wants you to believe that "anti-vax" means never taking even one vaccine - or allowing your children to do so. And for some, this is accurate. For the most part, Americans choose vaccination for their children, sometimes asking to delay or spread out or skip this or that shot. We earned this Freedom back in 1776 when we got ourselves out from under the tyranny of a King. We fought as rag tag but determined men and women against the world dominating British Red Coats. And we won. Here we are, 243 years later. And we face a new King in the form of the United States Government and Pharma. ### The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Office of the First Presidency 47 East South Temple Street Salt Lake City, Utah 84150 March 21, 2019 Re: Vaccination policy Dear President Nelson, President Oaks, and President Eyring, My name is Brett Wilcox. I am a lifelong member of the church, currently living in Sitka, Alaska with my family. Four years ago, I wrote a letter to President Monson and his counselors regarding the churchs position on vaccination (attached). (1) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is well known for its emphasis on protecting the sanctity of the family. The Church is also known for its support of vaccination programs, as evidenced by public statements encouraging vaccination, vaccine requirements for prospective missionaries, and its participation in and funding of international vaccination initiatives. By linking arms with the vaccine industry, the Church has literally linked arms with the arm of flesh. Nearly all modern vaccines are contaminated with DNA fragments from various animals and from aborted male and female fetuses. (2) It seems highly unlikely that a loving God would intend to have fetuses harvested, processed, and injected back into the bodies of pregnant women, infants, toddlers, and children. And surely, God did not intend to have His children place their faith in a one-size-fits-all medical intervention based on a (secret) combination of human sacrifice and cannibalism. Contrary to commonly accepted dogma, vaccines are dangerous. Vaccine researchersfully aware of this factdesign safety studies to hide vaccine injury and death. Rather than compare new vaccines to an inert placebo, researchers compare them to another vaccine, vaccines, or toxic vaccine ingredients, such as aluminum, which scientists routinely use to induce autoimmunity in laboratory rats. The result of these experiments is known beforehand: at least 2% of vaccine recipients in both the test group and the placebo group will experience serious adverse events. Researchers write off the injuries as New Medical Events unrelated to the test vaccine or to the toxic placebo. I repeat for emphasis: Researchers intentionally injure, and sometimes kill, healthy children who would not have been injured or killed, had they been given a legitimate placebo. The FDA licenses new vaccines fully aware that industry safety tests are nothing more than scientific treachery. (3) The ritual of vaccination is an assault on decency, individual health, families, and on the human race. The DNA in vaccines of both fetal and animal origin has the capacity to insert itself into the DNA of vaccine recipients. (4) Vaccines currently in development will intentionally and permanently alter human DNA and the human genome. (5) Consequently, we may be among the last of our species who are fully male, female, or even human. The Church cannot defend the sanctity of the family and simultaneously endorse a medical procedure that is altering the human genome, dissolving gender, decreasing fertility, diminishing mental capacity, and multiplying chronic disease and disability. (6) This is especially true in developing countries where people are chronically immunocompromised due to poverty, malnutrition, and unsanitary food, water, and living conditions. Children raised in these circumstances are more vulnerable to the toxins in vaccines, which would explain why researchers in Guinea-Bissau documented that the DTP vaccine multiplied childhood mortality by fivefold. (7) Read more here. Following what state Rep. Bill Taylor called the likely death of his anti-distracted-driving bill, state Sen. Tom Young is expected to file a very similar version on his side of the Legislature early next week. The Senate version will be known as the "South Carolina Hands-Free Act," according to Taylor and Young. Both are Aiken Republicans. The prospective legislation is like the "Driving Under the Influence of an Electronic Device" legislation Taylor filed last session. The South Carolina Hands-Free Act would make it illegal to hold a phone, call, text, email or watch a video while driving. Taylor's version made exemptions for first responders, those reporting a crime and those pulled over or legally parked. Violators would face a $100 fine but no points on first offense, according to Taylor and Young. Subsequent offenses would render a $300 fine and two points. Violations would be classified as criminal, like "speeding and running a red light," Taylor said Friday. "It's going to be like a traffic ticket," Young said. Taylor said he approached Young on Thursday after his bill this legislative session's so-called "DUI-E" was debated on the House floor and was then referred to the House Judiciary Committee. "We connected, and it's a workaround for being stymied in the House," Taylor said. "Success has many fathers and mothers," he continued. Young expects some support and some opposition in the Senate as the hands-free bill rolls out. But, he said, a "vast majority" of people in his district will support the idea. "Deadly distracted driving is a significant problem on the highways, and there is story after story about families that have been forever impacted as the result ... " Young said. Taylor has pitched his previous attempts as "Texting 2.0," a reference to South Carolina's 2014 texting-and-driving ban. Court summoned Asif Zardari-Faryal Talpur on April 8 An accountability court Friday summoned Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) supremo Asif Ali Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur and other accused for hearing of the money laundering case on April 08. After transfer of the case from Karachi to Islamabad, it will be the first hearing. Accountability Court Judge Arshad Malik will hear the case. It is worth mentioning here that the same court had earlier heard Al-Aziziya and Flagship references against former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. PPPs top leadership, Omni Groups Anwar Majeed and his son Abdul Ghani Majeed, Pakistan Stock Exchange former chairperson Hussain Lawai and Summit Bank Senior Vice-President Taha Raza are among those being investigated by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the National Accountability Bureau separately. The matter is also being heard by the Supreme Court. U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry firmly believes the Savannah River Site is the right place to recurrently produce a large tranche of plutonium pits. Speaking to reporters on Friday after an event at Plant Vogtle in Georgia, Perry said he thinks SRS can "absolutely" take on a 50-pits-per-year mission. At least 80 pits nuclear weapon cores are needed per year by 2030, according to the 2018 Nuclear Posture Review. The pits will be used to refresh the nation's nuclear arsenal. On May 10, 2018, the National Nuclear Security Administration and the U.S. Department of Defense jointly recommended producing 50 pits per year at SRS at a reworked Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility and the remaining 30 per year at a beefed up Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico. Perry on Friday described Los Alamos as the pit production "capital." Los Alamos is the nation's plutonium science and production center of excellence, per the fiscal year 2019 National Defense Authorization Act. The NNSA is a semiautonomous DOE agency in charge of the nation's nuclear outfit and related nonproliferation. The NNSA terminated the over-budget, past-due MOX project on Oct. 10, 2018. The deadline for fleshed-out pit production affords about 11 years to get facilities finished, up and running, and pumping out results. NNSA Chief of Staff William "Ike" White in mid-February speaking at the annual Nuclear Deterrence Summit said the proposed MOX-to-pits transformation represents a "major" nuclear recapitalization effort. A "sense of urgency," White said, is felt across the entire nuclear security enterprise. NNSA Deputy Administrator for Defense Programs Charles Verdon at the same conference said the nuclear agency is "focused like a laser beam" to satisfy pit production requirements. Perry on Friday said he is "confident" the 2030 production deadline will be met; he cited "American ingenuity" and President Donald Trump's administration-level "focus" on nuclear modernization as his proof. Not only can it be done, Perry continued, "it will be done." Satisfying both the energy and defense departments' FY19 nuclear-related requests would cost $494 billion over the next decade, according to a Congressional Budget Office review issued earlier this year. Of that 12-figure sum is a roughly estimated $9 billion for pit production buildout, according to the budget office. 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. WASHINGTON A senior Trump administration official said today that new US Iran sanctions designations targeting Iranians alleged to have been involved in sensitive defense research are part of a broader pressure campaign it hopes will eventually persuade Iran to come back to the negotiating table. For the last few months we have been going to a great deal of trouble to reimpose pressures upon Iran in order to try to incentivize Iran making the right choice and in coming back to the table to ultimately agree to the kind of enduring and better, more comprehensive settlement, a senior US administration official, speaking not for attribution, told journalists on a call hosted by the State and Treasury departments today. His comments came in a call announcing the designation of 14 Iranian individuals and 17 entities that US officials said were partly identified from the archive of Iranian nuclear weapons research that Israeli intelligence allegedly obtained from Iran last year. Israeli officials have reported that the archive describes research Iran conducted into nuclear weapons prior to 2003-2004, when this research was suspended. US officials said today that several individuals who had been involved with that shuttered research program continue to do sensitive defense research for Irans Organization of Defense Innovation and Research, better known by its Persian acronym SPND, and its subsidiaries. The new sanctions designations are intended in part to make SPND and its researchers radioactive, to disincentivize younger Iranian researchers from working for SPND or affiliates, the US officials said. In this action, we are designating the technical experts and critical entities linked to Irans previous nuclear weapons effort, a second senior administration official said on the State Department call. These are entities and people who continue to operate in Irans defense sector. With this action, were exposing those people, those entities, and we are making them radioactive internationally. US officials say they are concerned that SPND could let defense researchers keep their skills sharp should Iran in the future decide to try to reconstitute its shuttered weapons research program. This is a concern, the US official said, because under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal that Trump withdrew from last year, sunset provisions eventually allow Iran to expand its uranium enrichment capacity. Other provisions of the nuclear accord, however, constrain Irans potential breakout capabilities, including that Iran can only keep a small portion of its low-enriched nuclear fuel, and Iran remains under the most extensive International Atomic Energy Agency monitoring and inspections regime in the world. This particular tranche of sanctions has an additional layer of symbolic importance because its not just about putting pressure on Iran to reach a diplomatic, negotiated solution, the first senior official added. SPND is an organization that was set up in effect to keep the personnel and the human capital from the Iranian nuclear weapons program still together and to keep their skills sharp, apparently with some eye to potential future reconstitution. What were doing today is to continue to stigmatize SPND and that reconstitution program-in-waiting that it represents, and try to make it as unattractive as possible to be a part of that organization, the first official said. Asked by Al-Monitor if there was any progress in efforts to try to get Iran back to the negotiating table, the first US official said that talking about any such diplomatic overtures, if they exist, would be unhelpful. But he said the administration hopes that it will eventually get to the table with Iran as it has with North Korea. Im not in a position to talk about any particular diplomatic overtures, the first senior US administration official said. It tends to make them less useful where they exist, and one wouldnt want to create false promises or false hopes either if they dont exist. We have been gradually building an increasing amount of international support for insisting that Iran do make that right choice, the official continued. We are certainly not as far along the curve [with Iran] as we are with the North Koreans in terms of the actual engagements. But in some respect we are putting the same kinds of pressures on Iran with the hope of enticing a return to the table. That return to the table is further along in the North Korean context, but we hope that we will be soon working to come up with the kind of negotiated solution that Secretary [of State Mike] Pompeo has referred to. Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill gives out his cell phone number at public appearances and press conferences, encourages people to use it and makes a point that he answers his phone and returns calls. I think you would be hard pressed to find an elected official in the history of this state thats more accessible than me, Merrill said. His efforts to be accessible have limits when it comes to his social media accounts. Merrill has blocked people from his Twitter account. On Facebook, he has questioned the intelligence of those who disagree or criticize him. Merrill, a Republican who started his second term as secretary of state in January, says he wont allow people to use his social media accounts to promote causes he opposes or undermine the work of him and his staff in voter registration and the pursuit of voter fraud. Well, I always stick with the facts, Merrill said. Most of these people are trolls. Theyre not interested in the facts. Theyre interested in using my platform to promote their position, whatever it is. Most of the time its a very liberal position that is trying to bring attention to something that they think is important to them. And I dont really care what they want to do. But when they want to use my platform to promote their issue, Ive got a problem with that. Others see it differently. They say Merrills use of social media is a problem because of how he, as a public official, responds to his critics. A lawsuit pending in federal court alleges Merrill is violating the First Amendment by blocking Twitter users from his account. It echoes a case filed by Twitter users blocked from President Trumps account. A federal judge ruled against Trump last year and the case is on appeal. A Democratic party official from Birmingham who has sparred with Merrill on social media said Merrill turns defensive when his facts are questioned. Unfortunately, hes one of the types of people instead of pausing, examining and researching what hes actually saying, hes doubled down on the stupid things that he says, Julia Siergiey Juarez, a member of the state Democratic executive committee, said. Then he gets really defensive and likes to insult people. I find it kind of amusing just because thats usually normal on social media but you would think that an elected official would be a little more cognizant and aware of the fact that everybody else can see what hes saying also. Merrill disputes that characterization of his interactions on social media. My tone is always positive with everybody I deal with until they introduce that theyre not interested in being positive, Merrill said. When that happens, all bets are off. Period. In February, Merrill, Juarez and others had a sharp disagreement via Facebook after Merrill spoke to the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security about election security. Merrill told the committee that voter fraud involving absentee ballots happens frequently in Alabama. He cited two examples and showed a chart that indicated his office reviewed 879 voter fraud complaints of various types since April 2015. The chart showed 144 complaints had been referred to the attorney general, Ethics Commission or other law enforcement agencies. Merrill said there have been six voter fraud convictions and three overturned elections since he became secretary of state. In the Facebook exchange, Juarez and others accused Merrill of exaggerating the problem of voter fraud, saying the number of convictions and examples dont back his claim that fraud happens frequently. I believe John was lying, Juarez posted. What is your problem? Merrill responded. Do you have a hard time reading or just interpreting charts? I think you are using false rhetoric to manipulate people and I think that makes you untrustworthy, Juarez wrote back. Juarez accused Merrill of trying to make it harder for people to vote. Anybody that says voting is difficult in Alabama is either ignorant, ill-informed, or a fool. Merrill wrote back. We have broken every record in the history of the state for voter participation in the last four major elections. Youre entitled to your own opinion but not your own facts. While Merrill says his overall approach on social media is appropriate, he concedes hes mishandled some interactions. An example, he said, is an exchange before last years general election with Mallory Hagan, the Democratic candidate in Alabamas 3rd Congressional District. Hagan questioned whether placement of voters on an inactive status or their removals from rolls was an effort by Merrills office to suppress the vote. Merrill says thats part of the process of updating voter rolls and does not keep people from voting. You need to get off Twitter and get out campaigning because you are way behind, Merrill tweeted to Hagan. The people in the third congressional district are not liberal like the people in New York are. Youre going to find that out on Nov. 6. Merrill said he later told his daughter he should not have written that. Because that was not the way I needed to interact with her, Merrill said. And I told my daughter, I said Im sorry that I did this and I will not do that again in the same way. Because I was not my best self. John Bennett, deputy chief of staff and press secretary for Merrill, said his boss speaks bluntly to everyone, not just his critics on social media. Whether its me, our chief of staff, or probate judges, or other elected officials, hes straight to the point, Bennett said. Hes not going to dance around it by adding a bunch of flowery language just to be nice. But hes going to be direct and to the point. In September, three people represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Alabama sued Merrill in federal court in Montgomery alleging that Merrill violated the First Amendment when he blocked them from his Twitter account, @JohnHMerrill. The lawsuit says Merrill uses the account mainly to post information about his political activity, the policies of his office and election information. The lawsuit says Twitter serves as a digital town square and that Merrills decisions to block users suppresses dissent and discussion in a public forum. The plaintiffs have asked the court to declare that blocking users based on their viewpoints violates the First Amendment and to order Merrill to unblock them. The lawsuit notes that the Twitter account carries the tagline Representing the People of Alabama as their 53rd Secretary of State. Defendants viewpoint-based blocking of the Individual Plaintiffs from the @JohnHMerrill account infringes upon the individual Plaintiffs First Amendment rights, the lawsuit says. It imposes an unconstitutional restriction on their participation in a designated public forum. The plaintiffs cite a lawsuit filed by the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University on behalf of people blocked from President Trumps Twitter account. In May 2018, a federal judge ruled that the blocks violated the plaintiffs First Amendment rights. Trump unblocked the plaintiffs. The case is on appeal. Merrill argues in the lawsuit against him that the @JohnHMerrill account is a personal one that he has operated for six years, since before he was secretary of state, without aid of staff and with his own devices. He asserts that the decision to block users was not a government action subject to First Amendment challenge. Merrill argues that discussion of matters related to his office on the Twitter account does not make it a governmental account. He said he uses the personal account to answer questions related to his work as secretary of state. Because I answer a question that somebody asks me it becomes a state, formal official account? I dont think so, Merrill said. Social media usage by Alabama state agencies is governed by rules established by the Office of Information Technology. Stefanie East, director of communications for the OIT, said agencies can set their own policies but their rules must be at least as strict as OITs. OITs rules say that state agencies social media contents are public records and must be retained in accordance with the states public records law. Merrill said the contents of his social media accounts are not subject to the public records law because they are personal accounts. Im only talking about official business when somebody asks me a question and Im responding to them, Merrill said. Thats not an official office account. Its my account. Juarez, who is not a party in the lawsuit over Merrills Twitter account, says elected officials have a responsibility to engage the public in a meaningful way on social media, even those who disagree with them. Its that I think its important to have these public conversations, Juarez said. And social media gives us all that access to elected officials as long as they step up to the plate and do their part of it. Having a respectful dialogue with them in a public setting like on social media can help educate and empower the voting electorate to be more engaged and more involved and more understanding of what it is that the elected official is doing and why the elected official is doing what theyre doing. Merrill said the secretary of states official social media accounts are a resource for the public. We have an office account for Twitter and we have an office account for Facebook, Merrill said. And we use those. Nobodys ever been blocked from that. Nobodys ever been discontinued from being allowed to use it at any level by being muted or any other technique thats available on social media. But for his personal accounts, Merrill said hes under no obligation to allow access to users if he disagrees with their intentions. Now, Im a Christian, Merrill said. And the Bible teaches me that were supposed to turn the other cheek. But let me tell you what it doesnt say. That youre supposed to get your brains beat out. Because Im certainly a sinner. And I fall short of the glory of God all the time. But Im going let you have your say and I want you to have your say. But youre not going to try to embarrass or humiliate me, especially on something thats personal, like my account is. Cratbeer.com has complied its 2019 Great American Beer Bars list and one of those bars includes Loosa Brews in Tuscaloosa. The site asked its readers to nominate their favorite craft beer bar in their state and complete a survey about atmosphere, events, and beer selection. After tallying votes from December to January, they narrowed down the list to one bar in each state. In Alabama, that choice was Tuscaloosas Loosa Brews. Opened in 2014, the craft beer bar offers 63 taps, including 30 draft beers from around the state and some hard-to-find brews. Loosa Brews is on the list with Georgias Brick Store Pub and Mississippis The Porter. Loosas co-owner Chad Smith told Craftbeer.com that they were proud to be a friendly atmosphere for all things craft beer. "We strive to keep a pulse in the craft community. To see the entire list of bars, go to Craftbeer.com. CPEC to make positive contribution in regional peace-development: Chinese President Chinese President Xi Jinping Friday said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will not only bring concrete benefits to the people of the two countries but also make positive contribution to the regional peace and development. China-Pakistan relations maintain a good momentum. The two countries have been cooperating in all fields under the Belt and Road Initiative. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor not only brings concrete benefits to our people, but also makes positive contribution to regional peace and development, the Chinese president said in a message sent to President Arif Alvi on the occasion of Pakistan Day. I attach high importance to the development of China-Pakistan relations, and would like to join hands with you to upgrade the China-Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership to a higher level, and to build a closer China-Pakistan community of shared future in the new era, he stated. Currently, Pakistan is making efforts to maintain stability, expedite economic development and improve peoples livelihood. We are pleased that tangible outcomes have been achieved in this regard. I am sure that under the leadership of you and the Pakistani government, new progress will be made continuously in building your country, he said. On the occasion of the 80th Pakistan Day, on behalf of the government and people of China and also in my name, I would like to express my warm congratulations and best wishes to you and through you to the government and people of Pakistan, he added. May I wish Pakistan prosperity and her people happiness and wealth, he concluded. In a separate message sent to Prime Minister Imran Khan, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang extended warm congratulations and best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the occasion of the Pakistan Day. In recent years, China and Pakistan have worked together in promoting the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership towards a higher stage. A bill filed earlier this week could radically change who is in charge of education in the state of Alabama. Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston, and 22 other Alabama Senators filed SB119, which on the surface looked to eliminate Common Core. The bill calls for state lawmakers to have final say over any changes to or new adoptions of any of Alabama's learning standards for K-12 schools. Marsh said it is necessary given the lack of confidence lawmakers have in Alabama's elected state Board of Education. "The board has seemed to be dysfunctional," Marsh said on Friday. "Look at how many superintendents we've had. You add all the different issues up here, and right now, there's not a lot of confidence, unfortunately, in the state school board as a whole." The Alabama State Board of Educations eight members are elected by district to 4-year terms. Gov. Kay Ivey serves as the ninth member and President of the Board. Alabama Association of School Boards Executive Director Sally Smith said her organization is still opposed to the bill. "The Senate amendment merely made a bad bill less bad," Smith wrote in an emailed statement. "This bill is unnecessary." Alabama always has been in control of its standards, Smith continued. But from now on, the process would be further politicized by adding Legislature oversight. The state school board should be permitted to do its job. Marsh surprised the education community on Tuesday by filing a bill to eliminate Common Core from Alabama's education standards in math and English. Critics were quick to point out flaws in the bill, and, on Thursday, the version the Senate passed in a 23-7 vote had been amended to address most concerns raised by the education community. But the part about the legislature having the final say over academic standards flew under the radar until Thursday afternoon, when Marsh made mention of the legislative review of standards just before the Senate vote. The bill states: The State Board of Education shall replace the existing Common Core Standards with new standards adopted by rule pursuant to the Alabama Administrative Procedure Act. The Administrative Procedure Act, or APA, is a set of processes for how new rules and policies can be adopted by state agencies. Subjecting the adoption of new academic standards to the APA, Marsh said, adds an extra layer of oversight needed at this time because of the lack of confidence in the state board. A one-page document Marsh sent AL.com outlines what would happen to standards after the board approves them, pictured below. This is an excerpt of a one-page document Sen. Del Marsh provided to explain SB119. State Superintendent Eric Mackey had not seen Marshs one-page explanation when AL.com spoke with him Friday, but said he is concerned about slowing down an already careful process of adopting academic standards. It would be a real shame to go through the whole process---developing a course of study costs hundreds and hundreds of thousands of dollars, Mackey said, and then have to go back to the drawing board if a legislative body said to start over. "It's a 32-month process already," Mackey said. The 30-plus committee members, most of whom are appointed by the state board, meet 12 to 14 times over the year to do their work, he said. A draft of new standards is posted online for public comment in November for a period of 30 days, he said, and the committee then incorporates changes if needed. The standards are then presented to the board during a work session. The board votes on the new standards at the following meeting. After the standards are adopted by the state board of education, then a textbook committee begins reviewing possible textbooks. Historically, standards are reviewed every six to seven years. Adding another process on top of that lengthy one, Mackey said, could make the process unwieldy, and educators should be trusted to make those decisions. Marsh said he trusts the educators on the committee but isn't sure that the board is listening to all educators who want to have a voice in setting the standards. The legislative council meets in public and will hold public hearings before making a decision on the standards. "They can come and say 'Hey, listen what you have before you is not what we told [the state board]," he said. "It gives them a voice that they, quite honestly, don't have right now." Marsh reiterated that this is only "step one" of further reforms he is discussing with lawmakers and others in the education community. "We are looking at what we can do to move education in the right direction," he said. "We're going to be looking at everything from going to an appointed school board, to open enrollment---whatever we can think to start moving us in the right direction." Marsh said they are looking at how schools are funded, too. Mackey said he and others are meeting with lawmakers next week and wants to continue having conversations with Marsh and other lawmakers. Our primary focus, Mackey said, remains rigorous standards, high expectations, and excellent opportunities for all students regardless of their zip code. An effort is under way to steer federal money toward offering toll relief to local drivers wholl be traveling the improved and expanded Interstate 10 Bayway and the new Interstate 10 Bridge. Some state and federal lawmakers want the Alabama Department of Transportation to examine the use of Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) funds to pay for the toll costs. ALDOT has applied for a $150 million Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation, and is seeking all other funding opportunities. I will continue to advocate for GOMESA money to decrease the amount of tolls paid by our local residents, said state Sen. Chris Elliott, R-Daphne. Thats the best use of that money if you are in Baldwin and Mobile counties. He added, Its not committed yet, but its being discussed and will continue to be. Allison Gregg, a spokeswoman for the approximately $2 billion I-10 Bridge and Bayway widening project, said the state has not received information regarding GOMESA funding. The money is part of a program, which began in 2009 and provides millions of dollars to Gulf Coast states from offshore energy leases. Last year, for instance, federal officials announced that Alabama was getting $21 million, with another $5 million going to Mobile and Baldwin counties. That amount represented just the more recent phase of the GOMESA funding. The program runs through 2055, and payouts are expect to escalate every year. Competition for GOMESA money, though, will be fierce and there is no guarantee that it will be used to offset toll fares for coastal Alabama residents once the bridge is substantially completed by 2025. Gov. Kay Ivey has the authority to decide how the money will be spent. U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Fairhope, said hes always supported bonding funds from GOMESA to help pay for the states portion of the bridge project. Byrne has also long opposed tolling the structure. He would, of course, support using GOMESA funds to make the project more affordable and limit any impact from tolling, said Seth Morrow, spokesman for Byrne. If the state does move forward with tolling, Congressman Byrne has strongly urged them to ensure the bridge is affordable for residents from Mobile and Baldwin counties. Gregg said that ALDOT is exploring segmented tolling in which drivers pay tolls only on the segment of the roadway that they travel. For example, Gregg said that if a motorist gets onto the new I-10 Bayway at the Eastern Shore and exists within the middle of the Bayway, he or she would pay only for the use of that segment. ALDOT has committed to a frequent user discount to benefit drivers, said Gregg. Details are still being finalized. ALDOT is planning to host public hearings in May to provide further update on the project. A final request for proposal is expected out by the end of this year, with a preferred bidder being selected by the state in early 2020. Construction on the new bridge could be under way next year. The state sparked public upset by considering a $3 to $6 per-vehicle toll on both the future bridge in downtown Mobile and at the existing Wallace Tunnel. State officials are now examining whether the addition of tolls to both structures will lead to toll avoidance and the diversion of motorists to the Cochrane-Africantown Bridge near Prichard and the Bankhead Tunnel on Government Street. Spring is here, even if its still chilly outside. Longer days and sunshine means that Easter must be just around the corner. Easter is a floating holiday, meaning it doesnt occur at the same time each year. This year, Easter falls on April 21, which is relatively late in the year. Recent years saw the Easter celebration fall on April 1 (2018); April 16 (2017) and March 27 (2016). The last time Easter was this late in the year was in 2011, when the day was observed on April 24. It wont be so late again until 2030, when Easter is also set to fall on April 21. Why the changing dates? Easter, the Christian holiday which marks Christs resurrection, always falls on a Sunday between March 22 and April 25. According to scriptures, Jesus death followed the Jewish Passover, which is celebrated on a full moon in Spring. The early church used this date to determine Easter, celebrating it on the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the vernal or spring equinox. In an effort to standardize this date the timing of the equinox can vary between March 19, 20 or 21 the early church set March 21 as its standard day for the equinox. This means Easter each year falls on the Sunday after the first full moon following March 21, a moon known as the Paschal Full Moon. In 2019, a full moon and the Spring Equinox fell on the same day March 20. However, due to the March 21 change, Easter 2019 is pushed back into April. It will follow the full moon in April, which will occur April 19, falling on Good Friday. A man pleaded guilty Friday in the 2016 double murder of an East Alabama couple. Jeffery A. Wilcox, 33, was convicted of capital murder in the slayings of Daniel and Letitia Andrews, said Cherokee County District Attorney Mike ODell. Wilcox has been jailed since his Aug. 2, 2016 arrest. Cherokee County deputies responded July 31, 2016 to a home on County Road 19 where they found the couple had been fatally shot. Wilcox then kidnapped his estranged wife Chasidy Wilcox and fled the state. He was captured - and his estranged wife rescued two days later. Wilcox entered his plea Friday morning before Cherokee County Circuit Judge Shaunathan Bell. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Authorities at the time said murders resulted from a "domestic dispute." Jeffery and Chasidy Wilcox had file for divorce the previous year, and Casidy Wilcox had also filed for a protection order against her husband. Chasidy Wilcox was living with the Andrews her mother and stepfather - while separated from her husband, and their children were in the house when the murders occurred. Investigators at the time said Jeffery Wilcox was apparently on his way to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office to surrender when someone saw his truck and called 911. Centre police responded and arrested him without incident in the parking lot of the sheriff's office in downtown Centre. The truck was quickly spotted because law enforcement had shared photos of Wilcoxs truck with the license number. ODell commended the Cherokee County Major Crimes Unit for their excellent investigation of the case, saying ,any law enforcement agencies contributed to the successful prosecution of this case including the Cherokee County Sheriffs Office, the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, the State Fire Marshals Office, and the Jacksonville State University Center for Applied Forensics. Chief Deputy District Attorney Bob Johnston for his efforts in the prosecution of this capital murder case Fighting violent crime, not necessarily electronic gambling, is and will remain a priority for the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office, authorities said Friday. Earlier this week, Bessemer Cutoff District Attorney Lynneice Washington sent cease and desist letters to two bingo halls Super Highway Bingo on Bessemer Superhighway and Fun-N-Games in Brighton on the grounds that the businesses are operating illegally. As of Friday, both were still up and running and the parking lot was packed midday at Super Highway Bingo. Many have turned to Sheriff Mark Pettway for his plan to address the issue, but officials at the sheriffs office say they have bigger battles to fight and that enforcement of electronic bingo halls should be the responsibility of the police departments in the municipalities that are handing out business licenses to the bingo halls. Were not saying we wont enforce them, but our priorities are the crimes that really make a difference in our lives, said sheriffs spokesman Capt. David Agee. We are concentrating on serious crimes thefts, stolen property, robberies. The debate over bingo halls in Alabama is not new, both at the state level and the county level. The state Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that the electronic games are illegal slot machines because they dont fit the tradition definition of bingo. Authorities say such establishments are not only illegal but invite other crimes because they deal in unreported currency and are often targets for violent robberies. The customers are often retired and/or elderly and usually are duped out of their money. They have maintained over the years that commercial gaming is illegal in the state under the constitutional prohibitions against lotteries and the state code. Agee said the previous sheriffs administration aggressively enforced the matter, but said the current administration feels it may not be a pressing issue compared to other kinds of crimes. If a person illegally has a gambling device, such as a slot machine, they can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor and be sentenced to up to a year in jail and up to a $6,000 fine. However, Agee, said he cant recall a single conviction in any of the bingo hall raids in Jefferson County, and said the agency is currently paying storage for more than 1,500 gaming devices from raids that have not, and may not, ever go to trial. Brighton police Chief Larry Woods said he received a copy of the cease and desist letters but said he has not seen copies of the business licenses from the bingo halls. We dont have the manpower to raid or close them down or store the confiscated machines, Woods said. We would have to have help. Agee said they are willing to help with resources, but not manpower. We want to take a practical approach, Agee said, and use our resources wisely. An Alabama-based designer is opening a new store at Birminghams Pepper Place. Fashion designer Billy Reid will open a store of the same name at the former Dr. Pepper plant and bottling facility, Pepper Place announced on its website. Reid said in the announcement, Ive had my eye on Birmingham for a while and am proud to put roots down in Pepper Place. The space itself radiates the gritty, industrial history of the city and the district already houses some of the most well-respected creative minds in the region, which will only strengthen our concept. While Reid is from Louisiana, his wife is from Florence and the two moved to Muscle Shoals in 2001. He started the Billy Reid brand in 2001, and now has 13 stores across the countryincluding two in New York City and locations in Dallas and Houston. In 2005, he opened a Billy Reid store in Florences Pickett Place and also used the building to house his headquarters. In 2008, the store and headquarters operations moved to the current store on North Court Street in Florence. Since his move to north Alabama, Reid has become active in the local music and arts community and started a festival in 2009 called Shindig. Reid said, Our new Pepper Place retail concept is a lifestyle extension of the Billy Reid brand, bringing the soul and flavor of the South to life through fashion, music, food and art, much like our annual Shindig festival. A release from Pepper Place called Reids clothing style broken-in luxury, and said his dynamic lifestyle store will highlight authentic Southern food, art and music. The release said the brand has gained momentum because of its effortless blend of Southern sophistication and hardworking, high-quality seasonal clothing. The store is expected to open this summer. Sloss Real Estate Chief Operating Officer Tom Walker said the group is excited to bring another Southern creative to the district. The addition of Billy Reids lifestyle retail concept is an exciting representation of how the face of retail is changing through experience-driven concepts. In February, chef Chris Hastings confirmed Hot and Hot Fish Club is also moving to Pepper Place from its location off Highland Avenue. The restaurant will be located on Second Ave. South, next to the Red Cat coffeehouse. Walker said, The Billy Reid brand is one that generates an enormous amount of excitement within every creative industry, not only in Alabama, but also nationwide. Billys first namesake store in Birmingham is a perfect partner for Pepper Place, and we are excited to share more details very soon. A crash involving a Go-Kart and a motorhome on Friday night in Crenshaw County left one man dead. According to a report from WSFA News, the crash happened on Alabama 97 near the seventh mile marker. Alabama Law Enforcement Sgt. Drew Brooks said Randall Blain Bell was killed when the Go-Kart he was driving was hit by a 2019 Ford E-350 Motorhome. Bell, of Honoraville, was pronounced dead at the scene. Alabama State Troopers are investigating the incident. LHC rejected plea challenging acquittal of Shehbaz Sharif A division bench of the Lahore High Court (LHC), on Friday, rejected the plea challenging the acquittal of former Punjab chief minister, Shehbaz Sharif, in Sabzazar police encounter case. Khursheed Khanam, mother of the victims, Waseem and Rauf, killed in the police encounter, had filed the petition in 2009. The bench had approved the plea after the petitioner gave a credible reason for the delay. Petitioner stated that Shehbaz Sharif had been acquitted after another complainant in the murder case of Shakeel, Salahuddin and Ashraf had forgiven him, that led to his acquittal. Her husband had not withdrawn from the allegations and she continued pursuing the case, the petition added. Khanam said that the trial court could not acquit Sharif of the charges relying on the statement of one of the parties to the case while requesting the court to conduct his trial afresh. Sharifs counsel, Khawaja Haris, had said that trial court had released Sharif on merit while pointing out that the former chief minister had decided to face the trial as he rejected the reconcilement application of one of the complainants. As Jacinda Ardern walked up to the microphone, the weight of the world seemed to fall squarely on her shoulders. Asalamu alaikum! New Zealands prime minister uttered the universal Islamic greeting with grace and familiarity in front of thousands of mourners in attendance and millions more glued to TV screens. At this very moment, exactly one week after 50 of her countrymen and women were massacred, she didnt push Islam to the margins and away from the cameras, but deliberately chose to bring it alongside her for the whole world to see. She collected her breath, paused while everybody waited for her subsequent words and then read a saying of Prophet Muhammad. According to Prophet Muhammad salla Allahu alayhi wa salaam (peace be upon him) the believers in their mutual kindness, compassion and sympathy are just like one body. When any part of the body suffers, the whole body feels pain, she said. New Zealand mourns with you, we are one. Her message was clear. Islam is neither the other nor the invader. Islam is New Zealand and those adhering to it, departed or alive, are at home in this country. Over the previous week, Ardern had donned a hijab while grieving alongside mourning families, listened attentively while attending recovering mosques, and most potently, repeated and repeated the names of the 50 Muslim victims. She had refused to utter the terrorists name, stating: He is a terrorist. He is a criminal. He is an extremist. But he will, when I speak, be nameless. Clad in a hijab, a headscarf worn by many Muslim women who feel it is part of their religion, and a traditional black gown, Prime Minister Ardern chose to shine a light on Islam for all the world to see precisely 168 hours after a white supremacist shot worshippers in two mosques. We are one, she closed, echoing the message of the prophet. Then walked to join the rest of the gathering in Christchurch to listen to the adhan the Islamic call to prayer broadcast live throughout the entire country. 190319104526942 It was powerful, sublime, muscular and unapologetic. It was an unprecedented gesture on a stage of such magnitude and more importantly, it was far more than mere symbolism or political bluster. The sincerity streamed from a place of empathy empathy that absorbed the full violence of Islamophobia which for her and the whole country, unfolded in real time and right before their eyes. The massacres at Al Noor and Linwood mosques highlighted the reach and realness of that evil. It also revealed its relationship to the loaded rhetoric unleashed by political populists, most notably Americas Donald Trump and Frances Marine Le Pen, whose brazen demonisation of Islam and its adherents, have been arming white supremacist ideologies and equipping them with ammunition. After the Christchurch attack, it became crystal clear that xenophobic populism, and the Islamophobia it wields, is not empty rhetoric or a distant phenomenon. It is an enemy within. The shock of the massacre comes at a time when western democracies are being reshaped in line with the image of xenophobic and white supremacist populism. This process has pushed for the imposition of veil and Muslim travel bans, mounting surveillance, and restrictions on public calls to prayer all policies, which the Christchurch terrorist claimed as inspirations. On March 15, New Zealand and its prime minister came to understand how these policies radicalise terrorists like him and what the risks are of following in Europe and the United Statess supremacist spiral. In the aftermath of New Zealands deadliest attack, Ardern turned away from this global Islamophobic tide. Instead, she embraced everything that the West has come to hate: the headscarf, the religion which it symbolises and its final messenger and prophet. As her country stood silent and the whole world was watching, the call to prayer rang and reverberated as a decisive blow to the politics of Islamophobia gripping governments across the globe. This wasnt political posturing. It was personal. Fifty New Zealanders, 50 of Arderns people, were murdered only miles away from where she donned the hijab so gracefully, quoted the prophet so eloquently and listened to the Islamic prayer so honourably. In the turbulence of the attack aftermath, Ardern was shaping a new model of engagement with Islam for her people to follow, and with the attention of the world locked in on New Zealand, challenged the reign of global Islamophobia. This new model does not espouse religion as a marker of difference, but rather in the words of black feminist Audre Lorde as an item to be recognised and celebrated. This was more than just a tribute. It was a transformative precedent for the world to see and learn from. As the adhan rang through the streets of Christchurch, it was clear for the whole world, for Muslims and non-Muslims alike, that Ardern had answered the call to confront both in walk and word the Islamophobia that had ravaged her country and claimed the lives of 50 of her people. Today, I am a New Zealander. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance. The National Coordination for Change laid out plans for a transition, but received mixed reactions from protesters. Algiers, Algeria As tens of thousands of Algerians filled the streets for the fifth week in a row on Friday in an effort to push President Abdelaziz Bouteflika from power, leading opposition figures began working on collectively shaping the countrys political transition. Echoing demands of the street, the National Coordination for Change (CNC), an emerging bi-partisan umbrella group, that ranges in membership from socialist to Islamist activists, has rejected Bouteflikas plan to extend his 20-year rule, while overseeing Algerias political transition. This newly-formed group issued a statement on Monday titled the platform of change in which it urged Bouteflika to hand over power to a temporary collective presidency on April 28, the day on which his fourth term expires. In the statement, the CNC also called for the dissolution of parliament and asked the military not to interfere in politics. The army and the security services should carry their constitutional duties without interfering in the political choices of the people, it wrote. It is today urgent and necessary to make radical changes of the system in place, based on new foundations and new leaders. Mistrust among signatories 201903182049 The initiative raises many questions as it remains unclear who launched it. According to the statement, the platform is the result of weeks-long meetings between Algerians coming from cities and villages across the country, who are concerned by the future of Algeria. When contacted by Al Jazeera, however, the CNC declined to comment on the identity of the groups members, while some alleged signatories of the statement distanced themselves from the CNC. Mustapha Bouchachi, a prominent lawyer and human rights defender, denied joining the group. I have never signed this platform, Bouchachi told Al Jazeera. Likewise, Zoubida Assoul, a lawyer and leader of the Union for Change and Progress, a small political party, also said that she did not sign up to the platform. I received the document and responded that I agreed on the substance with the platform but I have never decided to join any such coalition, Assoul told Al Jazeera. For Samir Bouakir, former spokesperson of Algerias socialist party (FFS), the creation of an independent coalition to oversee the transition is premature. I signed the platform [statement], but I wont join the CNC. First, Bouteflika administration must leave. Only then we can discuss the creation of institutions, which will oversee the political transition, Bouakir told Al Jazeera. The initiative was not positively received by many street protesters, who questioned the participation of two Islamist activists. The two signatories, Mourad Dhina and Kamel Guemazi, are former high-ranking members of the banned Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) the Islamist party whose cancelled legislative election victory in 1991 led to a decade-long civil war. 190319182025253 Their signatures at the bottom of the Platform discredits this initiative, said a member of Mouwatana, a group of opposition figures, including political leaders and human rights activists, who called for the boycott of the presidential election. I will never collaborate with people who have blood on their hands and are responsible for the Black Decade, Cherifa Kheddar, head of Djazairouna, or Our Algeria, an association for victims of attacks, and a feminist activist, told Al Jazeera. But Dhina, who lives in exile in Geneva and has been accused by the Algerian authorities of belonging to a terrorist cell in Switzerland, rejects the allegation. There is no proof behind this accusation. I joined the FIS shortly after the 1992 military coup. But I have never been involved in any violent or criminal activities, Dhina told Al Jazeera. The cofounder of the exiled opposition movement Rachad said that he has no political ambition. This is a non-partisan approach. The Platform is a synthesis reuniting peoples ideas for a transition. I am not the initiator neither the mastermind of the CNC, he explained. Still, many protesters describe the initiative as an attempt by former Islamist activists to return to Algerias political arena. It is a strategy by banned FIS members to play a role in the transition. They are using the leaderless movement for their own agenda, a member of Mouwatana, who wished to remain anonymous, told Al Jazeera. Christchurch, New Zealand Christchurchs Al Noor mosque has reopened its doors, eight days after they were shuttered in the wake of the killing of 50 Muslims in the worst mass shootings in New Zealands modern history. Officials at Al Noor, where more than 40 people were shot dead during the attack on March 15, started allowing small groups of people back into the complex to pray and pay their respects shortly after midday on Saturday. Armed police stood guard at the gates of the complex, which were lined with flowers and messages of condolence, and by the mosque itself as returning worshippers and new visitors entered slowly, side-by-side. Inside, amid the potent smell of newly-painted walls, visitors passed through an uncarpeted hallway as they headed to the prayer room, where the dull sobs of kneeling worshippers punctuated an otherwise pristine silence. Linwood mosque, some 7km away, however, remains closed in the wake of the attack, allegedly carried out by 28-year-old Australian-born Brenton Tarrant. 190322075948462 Police have handed the complex back to the Muslim community, however, and shrunk security cordons around the site and at Al Noor. An armed security presence remains in force at both locations and at mosques around New Zealand. White supremacist suspect Among the scores of attendees at Al Noor on Saturday lunchtime was Fatima (not her real name), who said she travelled to Christchurch from Auckland to visit the mosque. Something is pulling me, without entering in the mosque and praying I cant leave. Its coming from my heart, Fatima told Al Jazeera. She said she would ask for forgiveness over last Fridays massacre. Our religion teaches us that all mankind should live under one umbrella in peace and unity, but we were unable to deliver that message to people in practice, Fatima said. We are sorry for that, and that 50 people had to sacrifice their lives to deliver that message, she added. Suspected attacker Tarrant, a self-identified white supremacist who was living in Dunedin, on New Zealands South Island, has been charged with one murder following the mosque attacks. However, police said in a statement last week that the person he was formally accused of killing had been wrongly declared dead, adding Tarrants charge sheet would be updated when he next appeared in court on April 5. Tarrant, who was remanded without a plea in his initial court appearance a week ago, is expected to face more charges then. The Al Noor mosque was reopened to worshippers and members of the public on Saturday [Edgar Su/Reuters] In the wake of his alleged attack, carried out using sophisticated weapons, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has moved to ban semiautomatic firearms and assault rifles. Ardern has also launched an inquiry into the countrys intelligence services, who critics argue should have identified Tarrant as a threat prior to the massacre. In the minutes before his alleged attack, Tarrant published a hate-filled online manifesto which called for violence against non-whites and immigrants. Ardern called it a terrorist incident. New Zealand is a land of peace Amr Soliman, another visitor to Al Noor from Auckland, said Tarrant had failed to sow division in New Zealand society. He achieved the reverse, when he shot these people he united us, all of us, all the nation, Soliman told Al Jazeera shortly after praying in the mosque. This attack is unforgettable but I feel satisfaction, because I see that these flowers, candles and tears are from the people who are not Muslim I thought that they loved us, but now I know for sure, he added. New Zealand is a land of peace, it was and it is and it will be, forever. On Friday, Ardern led the country in observing two minutes of silence, ushered in by the Muslim call to prayer, at a Friday prayers service held just metres away from Al Noor mosque. 190322000548154 The ceremony was attended by an estimated 20,000 people, including 5,000 Muslims, the equivalent of a 10th of the countrys total Muslim population. Vigils and other public acts of mourning also took place elsewhere across the Pacific nation on Friday, which has undergone a national outpouring of grief unlike anything in its modern history since last week. Hours after the ceremony in Christchurch, relatives of the victims of the attack laid 26 of their loved ones to rest in a mass burial at the citys New Park Cemetery. Imam issues Islamophobia warning Amid the nationwide shows of unity following Fridays attack, Muslim leaders and Ardern have also warned New Zealand and other countries must confront Islamophobia. Imam Gamal Fouda, prayer leader at Al Noor mosque who was present during the last weeks shooting, told the thousands gathered at the Friday prayers in Christchurch that Islamophobia kills, adding Muslims had felt its pain before in countries around the world, including the United Kingdom and the United States. He said the killing of 50 people at the Christchurch mosques last week did not come overnight, warning it was the result of the anti-Islamic and anti-Muslim rhetoric of some political leaders, media agencies and others. Fouda praised Ardern in particular for her response to the attack, saying her words and compassion showed the Muslim community she was one with us, but called on governments around the world, including New Zealand and the neighbouring countries to bring an end to hate speech and the politics of fear. As elsewhere in the world, Muslims in New Zealand have not been immune to discrimination in recent years. Though the country is renowned for its perceived tolerance, experts have warned Muslims continue to face everyday racism, negative stereotyping, including in the media, and a lack of knowledge about their faith and its associated customs. Ardern, for her part, has said racism is something New Zealand needs to confront as a nation if the safety of its minority communities is to be assured. She has also called for a global fight against extremism, saying Tarrants nationality showed world leaders could no longer think of safety in terms of boundaries. Mourners gathered outside Al Noor mosque on Saturday [Edgar Su/Reuters] Outside Al Noor, Australian Islamic relief charity delegate Jehad Skaf said more still needed to be done to eradicate Islamophobia and other forms of discrimination, but praised New Zealanders who had made a meaningful start on battling it back. As Muslims, we have felt so much pressure since the September 11 attacks, Skaf told Al Jazeera, adding he would normally try to hide his faith. But at the moment I feel Im proud to be a Muslim, walking the streets in New Zealand, people I dont know are saying As-Salaam Alaikum [peace be upon you] to me, he said, as mourners of all backgrounds congregated at Al Noors gates. This [attack] has lifted a lid on being a Muslim, and trying to engage more people that have any sort of hate towards Muslims. People have lost everything their houses, food, clothes and theyre given barely enough food for one day. The number of people killed in Mozambique alone has risen to more than 400. And the United Nations has warned of the risk of further flooding in the aftermath of Cyclone Idai. The government says it needs foreign support as for the months to come, everyone will depend on it to survive. Al Jazeeras Malcolm Webb reports from Sussundenga district, where some of the villages were among the hardest hit. Democrats say it is imperative Attorney General William Barr share full report and underlying findings with Congress. Congressional Democrats have demanded the full release of Special Counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation report that is now in the hands of the US Attorney General, William Barr. It is imperative for Mr Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress, House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate leader Chuck Schumer, the two most senior Congressional Democrats said in a joint statement. It also said Barr must not give President Donald Trump or his aides a sneak preview of the findings or evidence. Barr is set to review the long-awaited report on the probe into Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election and will determine how much to make public. He said he will release the principal findings soon and could provide details of the report in the next two days. 190322224139549 Barr has wide discretion on what he releases, and could withhold any information because its classified, or subject to court rules established by the grand jury that helped Mueller collect information. Because the Justice Department has ruled it will not indict a sitting president, Congress maintains it is the only institution that can hold the president accountable for any wrongdoing that the report may have uncovered. Senator Bernie Sanders, a presidential candidate in the 2020 election, used the presidents own words to make his case for the reports release. As Donald Trump said, Let it come out, he wrote on Twitter. As Donald Trump said, Let it come out." I call on the Trump administration to make Special Counsel Mueller's full report public as soon as possible. No one, including the president, is above the law. Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) March 22, 2019 Fellow Senator and candidate Elizabeth Warren launched a petition to garner support to make the report public. Robert Muellers finished his report. Hes delivered it to Attorney General William Barr. The American people deserve the full report. Sign our petition to make the Mueller report publicimmediately. https://t.co/kxhNh7GBWk Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) March 22, 2019 Six Democratic committee chairmen wrote in a letter to Barr on Friday that if Mueller has any reason to believe that Trump has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct, then the Justice Department should not conceal it. The president is not above the law and the need for public faith in our democratic institutions and the rule of law must be the priority, the chairmen wrote. The six chairs are Jerrold Nadler of Judiciary and Eliot Engel of Foreign Affairs; Elijah Cummings of Oversight and Reform; Adam Schiff of the Intelligence Committee, Maxine Waters of Financial Services and the Ways and Means Committees Richard Neal. Representative Jim McGovern, a Democrat from the state of Massachusetts, said Americans from both the parties want the report released. The American people Democrats, Republicans, and everyone in between overwhelmingly demand that this report be made public. We deserve to know the full, unabridged truth. We will settle for nothing less. pic.twitter.com/bJgtQHhVCM Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) March 23, 2019 He appeared to be referring to a poll conducted last month by the Washington Post and the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University that found 81 percent of Americans wanted the Mueller report to be made public. Senator Cory Booker said the American people have a right to see the report because they paid for it. About 6,000 police officers and two aerial drones deployed in the capital to help monitor the demonstrations. Thousands of anti-government yellow vest demonstrators have rallied in the French capital as authorities sought to enforce a ban on protests in certain areas amid enhanced security measures to avoid a repeat of last weeks riots. Protesters on Saturday gathered at Denfert-Rochereau square in southern Paris, before marching up north towards the tourist-heavy neighbourhood of Montmartre. The interior ministry said 3,100 protested in Paris, with 8,300 nationwide. 181204153014250 The figures marked a decline from the 14,500 counted by mid-afternoon a week ago, with 10,000 in the capital alone. The Champs-Elysees was almost empty except for a large police presence. Scores of shops were looted and ransacked last weekend, and some were set on fire by protesters. Fear of more violence kept tourists away, and police shut down metro stations in the area as a precaution. Dozens of police vehicles, including armoured trucks and water cannon, encircled the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the iconic avenue, with officers searching peoples bags and patrolling in front of boarded-up storefronts. Paris police arrested 51 people by early afternoon, issued 29 fines and conducted 4,688 preventive checks on protesters entering the capital. In Nice, police dispersed a few hundred protesters who gathered on a central plaza. The city was placed under high security measures as Chinese President Xi Jinping was expected to stay overnight on Sunday as part of his state visit to France. Deploying the army The new Paris police chief, Didier Lallement, who took charge following the destruction wrought by last weeks protests, said specific police units have been created to react faster to any violence. About 6,000 police officers were deployed in the capital on Saturday and two drones were helping to monitor the demonstrations. French authorities also deployed soldiers to protect sensitive sites, allowing police forces to focus on maintaining order during the protests. President Emmanuel Macron on Friday dismissed criticism from opposition leaders regarding the involvement of the military, saying they were not taking over police duties. Those trying to scare people, or to scare themselves, are wrong, he said in Belgiums capital, Brussels. Christelle Camus, a yellow vest protester from a southern suburb of Paris, called the deployment of French soldiers to help ensure security a great nonsense. Since when do soldiers face a population? We are here in France. You would say that we are here in [North] Korea or in China. I never saw something like this, she said. Last weeks surge in violence came as support for the four-month-old yellow vest movement has been dwindling, mostly as a reaction to the riots by some protesters. The rallies started in November to oppose a fuel tax raise but have expanded into a broader rejection of Macrons economic policies, which protesters say favour businesses and the wealthy over ordinary French workers. Macron countered by dropping the fuel tax raise and holding months of discussions with the public on Frances stagnant wages, high taxes and high unemployment. The movement was named after the fluorescent garments that French motorists must carry in their vehicles for emergencies. The US-backed fighters in Syria have declared military victory over ISIL on Saturday, ending a four-year battle against the group that once held territory spanning a third of Syria and Iraq. After weeks of heavy fighting, the tent camp where the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, or ISIS) fighters) had made their final stand in the village of Baghouz was bombed to shreds. A field pitted with abandoned trenches and bomb craters, and littered with scorched tents and the twisted metal carcasses of vehicles, was all that remained. Half buried in the dirt was a tattered shred of ISILs notorious black flag, while a giant yellow flag belonging to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fluttered atop a shell-pocked building. An official of the SDF announced the defeat of ISIL via Twitter on Saturday. 190320140536453 Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved, tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesperson for the Kurdish-led SDF, referring to ISIL by its Arabic acronym. The elimination of the last stronghold in Baghouz brings to a close a gruelling final battle that stretched across several weeks and saw thousands of people flee the territory and surrender in desperation, and hundreds killed. It is not known whether the groups leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is still alive or where he might be hiding. Al-Baghdadi remains at large while stakeholders in the Syria conflict claim he is dead [File: AP] It spells the end of the ISIL groups so-called caliphate, which at its height four years ago was home to some 8 million people, but the group still maintains a scattered presence and sleeper cells across Syria and Iraq. ISIL affiliates in Egypts Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan and other countries continue to pose a threat, and the groups ideology has inspired so-called lone-wolf attacks that had little if any connection to its leadership. The campaign to take back the territory by the US and its partners has spanned nearly five years and unleashed more than 100,000 bombs and killed untold numbers of fighters and civilians. Rise and fall of ISIL ISIL began as an offshoot of al-Qaeda in Iraq, which in 2006 became known as the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI). The movement, led by key al-Qaeda figures, played a major role in driving the sectarian conflict that followed the US invasion in 2003. ISI carried out deadly attacks in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, during this period, targeting Western-allied tribal leaders and US army posts before eventually being pushed out. Undeterred, it soon pitched up in Mosul, Iraqs second-largest city, which it then used as a hub to continue its attacks. In 2010, al-Baghdadi was named the ISI chief. Two years later, he mandated ISI affiliates to set up an offshoot in Syria a country that had been forced to contend with its own civil war. Members of that offshoot, first known as Jabhat al-Nusra, were then integrated into ISIL after a number of defections. ISIL quickly began to establish its presence over drained, vulnerable, war-torn areas in Syria and Iraq, making it easy for the group to gain both influence and military power. Meanwhile, in Raqqa, ISIL worked on weakening the Free Syrian Army (FSA), which opposed forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. It eventually ejected the two largest FSA factions at the start of 2014. At its height, the group carried out massacres and documented them with slickly produced videos circulated online. It beheaded foreign journalists and aid workers, and burned alive a captured Jordanian pilot. During a rampage through Iraqs Sinjar region in 2014, it captured thousands of women and girls from the Yazidi religious minority and forced them into sexual slavery. Many remain missing to this day. The group also used its caliphate as a launchpad for attacks around the globe, including the assaults in Paris in 2015 that killed more than 130 people. While it imposed an unforgiving version of Islamic law through public beheadings and crucifixions, the group also carried out the mundane duties of governance in its territories, including regulating prices at markets and repairing infrastructure. Cornered in Baghouz, the group fought fiercely and desperately to hang on to the last shred of territory it controlled, using thousands of civilians, including women and children, as human shields. Al Jazeeras Farah Najjar contributed to this report. Italy is the first G7 country to sign up to the scheme, in a move that has caused upset in Washington and Brussels. Resisting pressure from Washington and Brussels, Italy on Saturday became the first G7 country to join Chinas controversial Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Italys Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Rome, endorsing the global infrastructure-building scheme. Conte and Xi shook hands after 29 separate sections of the MoU were signed by members of both governments. As with previous MoUs, Saturdays accords were wide-ranging, covering cooperation in the banking sector, a partnership between a Chinese construction company and Italian ports and the export of fruit from the Mediterranean country to China. The agreements also hinted at collaboration between media outlets, as well as in the spheres of science and technology, and promised the return of hundreds of Chinese cultural objects currently in Italy. The MoU is non-binding. But by opening the door to greater Sino-Italian cooperation, it threatens to deepen rifts between Rome and its traditional allies and within Italys fragmented coalition government. Luigi di Maio, Italys minister for economic development and one of the countrys two deputy prime ministers, told reporters after the signing that Romes goal was to rebalance an imbalance in Sino-Italian trade. There is a lot of Made in China coming into Italy and too little Made in Italy that goes into China, Di Maio said, adding that Italy now hopes for a substantial and gradual increase of exports to balance out the trade imbalances. Di Maio, right, and Chinese Commerce Minister Zhong Shan sign some of the 29 accords [Yara Nardi/Reuters] New Silk Road vs debt-trap diplomacy Announced in 2013 as an ambitious plan to build a belt of overland corridors and a road of maritime shipping lanes spanning Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe, the BRI has evolved to encompass other regions as well as digital infrastructure and even cultural exchanges. Also known as The New Silk Road, it promises to strengthen Chinas trade and investment links with the rest of the world and cement its position as a major global economic power. 170729182520947 BRI projects are financed by Chinese state-owned enterprises that offer participating countries inexpensive loans and credit. Analysts at Morgan Stanley predict Chinas investments in BRI countries could reach $1.3 trillion by 2027. The scheme has drawn fire from critics who accuse Beijing of engaging in so-called debt-trap diplomacy and potentially masking military endeavours as commercial enterprises. In 2017, Sri Lanka handed Beijing control of a strategic port after it couldnt pay off its Chinese creditors. The spectre of unsustainable debt burdens has since prompted some countries to delay, scale back and cancel BRI projects. Bold statement to Brussels Italys decision to defy the recent backlash and join the BRI comes at a time when the potential to boost Italian exports to China and pump money into crumbling Italian infrastructure is an especially alluring proposition. Italy has an onerous public debt and it fell into recession at the end of last year. Italy needs investment and resources and China has those to provide, said Erik Jones, professor of European studies and international political economy at Johns Hopkins Universitys Bologna-based School of Advanced International Studies. Italy also needs to underpin and strengthen its business ties with China [and] this agreement will help there, he said. Under Giuseppe Conte, left, Italys relationship with the EU has become increasingly strained [File: Piroschka van de Wouw/Reuters] Italy is the thirteenth European Union country to sign a memorandum of understanding with China. But it is the first G7 member to do so, throwing the cohesion of the G7 into question. The landmark move is also a bold statement to Brussels, which engaged in an acrimonious budget battle with Rome last year that forced Italy to pare back its spending plans. Brussels and Rome have also butted heads over immigration. 180719094914584 Italy has issues where it is not happy with the EU and the EU is not happy with it, and the only way out of this conundrum is for [Italy] to expand their trade, Einar Tangen, a political and economic affairs commentator, told Al Jazeera. Being part of the Belt and Road Initiative would give them a little bit more independence and obviously offer more trade, he said. Brussels has held a tougher position against the BRI since reports first surfaced of Italys plan to join the scheme. The European Commission and the EUs diplomatic arm released a paper last week that branded China a systemic rival and threatened to tighten regulations on Chinese investment in Europe. The paper also included a pledge that EU member states would push for a common approach to potential 5G security risks in response to concerns raised by the US over Chinese tech giant Huawei. Uneasy alliances Some analysts also see Italys embrace of the BRI as a symbolic gesture of independence ahead of the European Parliament elections this May. 190307181920819 This agreement is something the government can hold up as an accomplishment, said Jones. That is particularly relevant for Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, who tends to have to mediate between the coalition partners more than he is able to take credit for new initiatives. But joining the BRI could further exacerbate tensions between the two main parties in Italys coalition government. Di Maios anti-establishment Five Star Movement has championed stronger ties with China, while its main coalition partner, the Eurosceptic, far-right League, is seeking to maintain good relations with the US, which is embroiled in an ongoing trade war with Beijing. Italy is a major global economy and a great investment destination. Endorsing BRI lends legitimacy to Chinas predatory approach to investment and will bring no benefits to the Italian people. NSC (@WHNSC) March 9, 2019 The US and China are also in an escalating dispute over Huawei, whose products the US claims pose a risk to national security. When reports of Italys intentions emerged in early March, the White House National Security Council tweeted: Endorsing BRI lends legitimacy to Chinas predatory approach to investment and will bring no benefits to the Italian people. On Tuesday, Conte appeared to try and assuage Washington, telling Italys parliament that any commercial and economic deals with China do not remotely put into doubt our Euro-Atlantic alliance. Astana has been renamed as Nur-Sultan, as a tribute to former leader Nursultan Nazarbayev, who resigned on Tuesday. Kazakhstan has renamed its capital Astana as Nur-Sultan in honour of the countrys longtime president who resigned in a surprise move earlier this week. The order to change the capital citys name was issued on Saturday by Kazakhstans newly sworn-in interim President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Tokayev initially proposed the new name on Wednesday as a tribute to Nursultan Nazarbayev, who led the country for decades until his resignation on Tuesday. 190319132408987 The opinion of [Nazarbayev] will be of special, one can say priority, importance in the development and adoption of strategic decisions, Tokayev said at the time. Small protests took place in Almaty and other cities after the name change was proposed. Astana replaced Almaty as the capital in 1997 and boomed from a minor provincial steppe town into a futuristic city. The name Astana literally means capital in Kazakh and there has long been speculation it could, at some point, be renamed after the leader who shaped it. Nazarbayev was at the helm of the country for nearly 30 years, first when it was still part of the Soviet Union and then as the first president of an independent Kazakhstan. His announcement on Tuesday surprised many, including analysts who had expected Nazarbayev to be a president for life, as has been the case with leaders in other Central Asian countries. 190319162859640 However, some noted that 78-year-old Nazarbayev, whom Tokayev praised as an outstanding reformer, would retain key powers as chairman of the Security Council and head of the ruling Nur Otan party. Nazarbayevs decades-long rule transformed Kazakhstan into an energy powerhouse but he governed with little tolerance for opposition. His resignation is not expected to fundamentally alter Kazakhstans authoritarian system, which rights groups say leaves little space for political competition, civil society and free media. Tokayev, a career diplomat who had been senate speaker, can serve the remainder of Nazarbayevs term ahead of scheduled elections next year. Mahathir Mohamad offered cooperation in combating corruption 23 March, 2019 Related News Imran Khan distributed loan cheques under Kamyab Jawan Programme PTI govt to face all challenges coming its way: Imran khan More on this View All Top 2021 Accessories We Know You Will Love Types of Casino Payment Methods Tips for Taking Incredible iPhone Travel Photos Are Slot Developers Important for players? Best Poker Hands ever played on a Casino Hand Wash and Toiletries in Pakistan And the Role of DUPAS in Reshaping the Industry Woke Bingo Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad on Friday offered Pakistan cooperation in combating corruption to avert losses to the national economy and also called for extending its scope to other Muslim countries. Addressing a joint press stake-out along with Prime Minister Imran Khan at the PM House, the Malaysian prime minister said his country is much concerned about the negative impact of corruption and believes that it hampers the socio-economic development of masses. He said money stolen by public office bearers must be extracted and diverted towards the development budget with an objective of their uplift. He seconded the vision of Prime Minister Imran Khan that corruption affects a country by making its people poor. We can exchange information with each other to combat corruption and share a mechanism with other Muslim states so as to help them ensure development, Mahathir said, who earlier presented a book to Prime Minister Imran Khan on the subject of fighting corruption. Imran Khan said Dr Mahathir as a statesman is a role model for the Muslim world who brought about improvement in the living standard of his countrymen, adding that his comeback in politics is a remarkable step towards ending corruption. He said Pakistanis admires Dr Mahathir for taking bold stance on issues confronting Muslims across the world and stresses his vibrant role in current scenario particularly addressing the challenges of Islamophobia. Prime Minister Imran Khan and his Malaysian counterpart Dr Mahathir, who earlier held a one-on-one meeting at the PM House, expressed the commitment to translate their bilateral relationship to the advantage of their peoples. Terming the talks very substantive and useful, Dr Mahathir said he is glad to renew the friendship between Malaysia and Pakistan and called for identifying the areas where the two could explore opportunities including in trade and power generation. He said it is necessary for a country to retain some wealth of its own to function well as a nation and also to have a sound place at international forums. He stressed upon Muslim countries to strive for attaining development, adding that Malaysia has converged its energies to achieve the 2025 goals of development. About growing trends of Islamophobia, the Malaysian prime minister said by winning hearts and minds, Muslims can change negative perception about them and reduce the atmosphere of enmity. Mahathir said he discussed the issue of terrorism with Imran Khan and emphasized mutual cooperation to counter the negative mindset. He expressed confidence that his visit will enable the two governments to improve bilateral trade and investment, resulting in stronger economies. On foreign direct investment (FDI), he stressed the need for having familiarity with the rules and practices of both countries and where possible, devising common regulations to encourage investment. On importance of economy-driven politics in 21st century, he said Malaysia achieved a degree of success by looking towards Japan and other developed eastern countries, adding his country is ready to share its expertise with Pakistan in relevant areas. Prime Minister Imran Khan said taking Malaysia as a model of development, his government soon after assuming power, focused on improving FDI and technological advancement. On collaboration in tourism, he said Pakistan can learn immensely from Malaysia which generates around $22 billion from this sector. Later a joint statement was also issued, which stated that both the leaders held fruitful and in-depth discussions in a warm and cordial atmosphere. Both leaders agreed that the existing relations between Pakistan and Malaysia be elevated to a strategic partnership. It marked a new level of the bilateral cooperation between both countries in various fields, namely trade in palm oil, agricultural products, food retail, halal products, automotive parts, energy, science and technology, and telecommunication investment. Both sides reaffirmed their shared desire to maintain close high-level contacts, deepen friendly exchanges of visits and cooperation in all fields, as well as, to actively promote Pakistan-Malaysia relations, the joint statement read. In a landmark cooperation in the automotive industry between Pakistan and Malaysia, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Prime Minister Imran Khan jointly officiated the symbolic ground-breaking ceremony of PROTON plant in Islamabad which will boost the manufacturing and services industry of both the countries. Both leaders witnessed the signing of agreement and memorandum of understanding in the field of investment and cooperation, particularly in the telecommunication sector. Malaysia expressed hope that Pakistan will continue to import more Malaysian palm oil and palm oil-based products as well as remove any non-tariff barriers on Malaysian goods and products. Both sides reaffirmed the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA) signed on November 8, 2007, and welcomed the growing momentum in the bilateral economic relations. They stressed on the need to convene the next MPCEPA joint committee meeting as soon as possible. Both leaders exchanged views on the situation in Palestine and in the Rakhine State, Myanmar involving Rohingya Muslims. On the Palestinian issue, both countries agreed to contribute positively in other forums, especially in the OIC Committee of Six on Palestine, of which Malaysia and Pakistan are members. Prime Minister Imran Khan briefed Prime Minister Dr Mahathir on the grave human rights situation in Kashmir. The two leaders agreed on the need to enhance educational ties particularly in the institutions of higher learning, technical and vocational training between Malaysia and Pakistan. Tourism and youth exchanges have also been identified as key drivers in promoting greater people-to-people contact and sustainable socio-economic growth. Local officials say early morning attack leaves at least 110 dead, amid worsening ethnic violence in parts of Mali. Armed men have killed more than 100 people in central Mali, according to local officials, in what is one of the deadliest attacks in a country plagued by worsening ethnic violence and the rise of armed groups. Moulaye Guindo, the mayor of the town of Bankass, said men dressed as traditional Donzo hunters encircled and attacked the nearby Fulani village of Ogossagou-Peul at around 4am (04:00 GMT) on Saturday. Its a very heavy death toll, he told Reuters news agency. The village of Ogossagou is completely devastated, the mayor said, adding that bodies were still being discovered. The body count continues by the gendarmes, who have just told me they have found 110 bodies, but the count continues, he said. 190317131905166 Guindo said another nearby Fulani village, Welingara, had also been attacked, causing a number of deaths. Abdoul Aziz Diallo, president of Tabital Pulaaku, a group representing ethnic Fulani, told The Associated Press news agency that the death toll in Ogossagou was 115. The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Mali confirmed reports of an attack but gave no figures, according to AP. Ethnic tensions Donzo hunters are part of the Bambara, Malis largest ethnic group. The semi-nomadic Fulani people are dispersed throughout the Sahel and West Africa. Saturdays attack is believed to be the latest in a series of clashes between the communities of Donzo and Fulani also known as Peul that have left dozens dead in recent months. In January, Donzo hunters were blamed for the killing of 37 people in a Fulani village. The violence is incited by accusations of grazing cattle on Donzo land and disputes over access to land and water, but the area is also troubled by the influence of armed groups, who the Fulani are accused of being tied to. Armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS) have exploited ethnic rivalries in Mali and its neighbours Burkina Faso and Niger to boost recruitment and render vast swaths of territory in the Sahel region virtually ungovernable. Saturdays attack came as a UN Security Council mission visited Mali to seek a resolution to the violence that saw hundreds of civilians killed last year. UN ambassadors met Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and other government officials on Friday evening to discuss the violence and the slow implementation of a peace agreement with certain armed groups. Aid agencies raise alert over sanitation and lack of safe drinking water as risk of disease outbreaks grows. Humanitarian agencies have raised alerts over hygiene and safe drinking water needs eight days after Cyclone Idai lashed central Mozambique, with cholera cases reported in the devastated port city of Beira. The warnings on Saturday came as the Mozambican government raised the death toll to at least 417, with an unspecified number of people missing. The number of dead was put at 259 in neighbouring Zimbabwe, which Idai tore through after Mozambique before moving to Malawi, which recorded 56 deaths. Henrietta Fore, the chief of United Nations childrens agency (UNICEF), told AFP news agency in Beira that stagnant water and decomposing bodies, as well lack of hygiene and sanitation, have created a risk of outbreaks of malaria and cholera. We are running out of time, it is at a critical point here, Fore said. The International Federation of Red Cross said in a statement on Friday that some cholera cases have already been reported in Beira, along with an increasing number of malaria infections. Diaz Simango, the mayor of Beira who has been helping clean up the city by driving an excavator, also told AFP that cases of diarrhoeal infections had already been reported. UNs World Food Programme declared the flood crisis a level-three emergency [Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi/AP] Meanwhile, four cases of typhoid were reported on Saturday in the small provincial district of Dombe, some 280km west of Beira, sparking fears that the disease could spread across the flood-prone area. Local health worker Adelbert Da Silva told Al Jazeera that after authorities became aware of a cholera outbreak in some parts of the country, several people who had complained of illness were attended to by a mobile voluntary medical team stationed in Manica Province. The four were found to have typhoid, and put on treatment. Da Silva said he expected more cases to emerge in the coming days, adding, however, that government and humanitarian aid organisations were working around the clock to contain an outbreak of acute diseases. Dombe was covered in water after the heavy downpour, and this place is prone to flooding and diseases such as cholera and typhoid, Da Silva said. But whilst we are still trying to come to terms and deal with the after-effects of this deadly cyclone, I can assure you that another crisis a disease outbreak will not be allowed to worsen an already bad situation. People slowly made their way from devastated inland areas to Beira [Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi/AP] Da Silva said most of those that perished were crushed at night in their huts by falling trees and weighty rocks rolling off hills under the sheer force of the violent flow. Food distribution and shelter have been reinforced in Dombe, with such organisations as Mozambiques relief agency INGC and UK Aid Direct coming to the rescue. Survivors whose homes were swept away are now housed in taints, with those that have fallen ill accessing medical attention from there. Meanwhile, aid group Doctors Without Borders said people were also at risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed for stepped up support for victims of Idai saying the UN and its humanitarian partners are scaling up the response but far greater international support is needed. He said in a statement that with crops destroyed in the breadbasket of Mozambique more people are at risk of food insecurity in all three countries. UNs World Food Programme (WFP) declared the flood crisis a level-three emergency, putting it on a par with Yemen, Syria and South Sudan. The homeless, hungry and injured slowly made their way from devastated inland areas of Mozambique to Beira, which was heavily damaged itself but has emerged as the nerve centre for rescue efforts. Some were wounded. Some were bleeding, said Julia Castigo, a Beira resident who watched them arrive. Some had feet white like flour for being in the water for so long. Aid workers are seeing many children who have been separated from their parents in the chaos or orphaned. More than 65,000 people are already in shelters in central Mozambique and other sites are being opened. Elhadj As Sy, secretary-general of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said the relief efforts so far are nowhere near the scale and magnitude of the problem, and the humanitarian needs are likely to grow in the coming weeks and months. We should brace ourselves, he said. Cyclone Idai moved to Zimbabwe after tearing through Mozambique [Philimon Bulawayo/Reuters] In Zimbabwe, where roads began to open and some basic communications were set up, a fuller picture of the extent of the damage began to emerge. The victims included a mother buried in the same grave with her child; headteachers missing together with dozens of students; illegal gold and diamond miners swept away by raging rivers; and police officers washed away with their prisoners. In the city of Mutare, Maina Chisiriirwa said she buried her son-in-law, who had gone to the diamond fields to mine illegally. There are no jobs and all he wanted was to feed his family. He was with his colleagues. They thought it would be easier to mine since the rains would keep the guards and the police away from patrolling, Chisiriirwa said. His colleagues survived, but her son-in-law was swept away, she said. Enock Muchinjo contributed to this report from Dombe, Mozambique What is the attorney general expected to do? Will Trump see it? What can the Democrats do? Heres what to expect next. Special counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his Trump-Russia investigation and has delivered his final report to US Attorney General William Barr. Mueller has been investigating Russias role in the 2016 presidential election and whether President Donald Trump unlawfully sought to obstruct the probe. Trump has denied collusion and obstruction, calling the investigation a witch-hunt. Russia has denied interfering in the election. The report, submitted on Friday, is confidential at this point, and it is still unclear how much, if any, the public may get to see. Barr has said he plans to write his own account of Muellers findings, and that he envisions two reports, and only one for congressional and public consumption. Heres what to expect next: What happens now? Justice Department regulations required only that Mueller give the attorney general a confidential report that explains the decisions to pursue or decline prosecutions. That could be as simple as a bullet points list or as fulsome as a report running hundreds of pages. What is Attorney General Barr required to do? The attorney general said he envisions two reports and only one for congressional and public consumption, which he will write. 190322211626341 Barr has said he takes seriously the shall be confidential part of the regulations governing Muellers report. He has noted that the department protocol says internal memos explaining charging decisions should not be released. Barr has said he will draft his report for the chairman and ranking members of the House and Senate Judiciary committees. But the regulations provide little guidance for what such a report would say. The attorney general is required only to say the investigation has concluded and describe or explain any times when he or Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein decided an action Mueller proposed was so inappropriate or unwarranted that it should not be pursued. In a letter Barr sent Friday to the four politicians, he said there were no such instances. He also said he may be in a position to advise them of Muellers principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. Barr said he would determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public after speaking with Mueller and Rosenstein. Will Trump be able to see the report? President Trumps lawyers want an early look at Muellers findings before they are made public. Thats according to Rudy Giuliani, Trumps lawyer. He said Trumps legal team has not received any assurances that they will get the early look they want, though. It is unclear under what circumstances Trump or his lawyers might be able to view it, especially because the document is meant to be confidential for the Justice Department leadership. Mueller reports to the Justice Department, not the White House. 190320164852591 Barr said at his confirmation hearing that he would not permit White House interference in the investigation. But he also has voiced an expansive view of executive power in which the president functions as the countrys chief law enforcement officer and has wide latitude in giving directives to the FBI and the Justice Department. What can the Democrats do? Democrats could seize on any disclosure to the president to argue that the report really isnt confidential and should be immediately provided to them as well. House Intelligence Committee chairman Adam Schiff says his panel will issue subpoenas if Muellers report and its underlying evidence are not released to Congress for further review. The California Democrat said on CNN that Congress needs to know and so does the country. He said hes willing to subpoena Mueller as well as Attorney General Barr, if needed, to push for disclosure. House Judiciary Committee member, Jerrold Nadler, also said his panel could subpoena Mueller or the report. We could subpoena the final report. We could subpoena Mueller and ask him in front of the committee what was in your final report. Those are things we could do, Nadler told ABCs This Week in October. But Trump, as the leader of the executive branch, could direct the Justice Department to defy the subpoena, setting the stage for a court fight that would almost certainly go to the Supreme Court. House Democrats now see the Mueller investigation as a starting point for their own probes of Trump and Russian interference in the 2016 election. Special counsel hands over long-awaited Russia probe report to the attorney general. Here are all the latest updates. US Special Counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his nearly two-year investigation into Russias role in the 2016 presidential election, any possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow and whether President Donald Trump unlawfully sought to obstruct the probe. On Friday, Mueller handed over his report to Attorney General William Barr, who has said he will write his own account of the special counsels findings. Trump has denied any collusion and called the report a witch-hunt. Moscow has denied interfering in the election. Democrats have demanded that Congress and the public be allowed to look at the full report. Here are all the latest updates as of Sunday, March 24: Trump claims complete exoneration Trump criticises the probe into his links with Russia as an illegal takedown that failed, claiming he had been completely cleared by the results. Its a shame that our country had to go through this, Trump told media from Palm Beach, Florida. To be honest its a shame that your president has had to go through this before I even got elected it began. It began illegally and hopefully, someone is going to look at the other side. This was an illegal takedown that failed. So its complete exoneration, no collusion, no obstruction. No Collusion, No Obstruction, Complete and Total EXONERATION. KEEP AMERICA GREAT! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 24, 2019 Barr: Mueller found no proof Trump campaign conspired with Russia Mueller concluded in his investigation that Trump should not be charged with obstruction of justice or conspired or coordinated with Russia to interfere during the 2016 election campaign, according to a letter by Barr to congressional leaders. The Special Counsels investigation did not find that the Trump campaign or anyone associated with it conspired or coordinated with Russia in its efforts to influence the 2016 US presidential election, Barr said in his letter on Sunday. The Special Counsel states that while this report does not conclude that the President committed a crime, it also does not exonerate him, Barr added. The special counsel did not reach a conclusion about whether Trump obstructed justice during the investigation but Barrs letter reaches a finding that, without evidence of an underlying conspiracy, the legal threshold for obstruction would not be met. The lack of a finding of obstruction was based on the recognition that the evidence does not establish that the President was involved in an underlying crime related to Russian election interference, the letter said. Muellers investigation included 19 lawyers and a team of 40 FBI agents, intelligence analysts, forensic accountants and professional staff. The team interviewed 500 witnesses, executed more than 500 search warrants, 13 requests to foreign governments, issued 2,800 subpoenas and 50 wiretaps in the investigation, according to Barr. Congress to get findings within an hour The Department of Justice has told Congress to expect a summary of Muellers findings within the hour, the Associated Press news agency has reported, citing two sources. The two people, who are familiar with the Departments plans, spoke to AP on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media. GOPs Jordan says Mueller is next to Jesus Representative Jim Jordan has yet to see the special counsels report, but the Ohio Republican insists it shows no evidence of coordination, collusion, conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia. Jordan told ABCs This Week TV programme that everyone in town was confident Mueller would lead a thorough investigation. Jordan said Mueller is seen as right next to Jesus; he can almost walk on water and that he will have the definitive statement on that fundamental question. Democrats press for full release of Muellers report Democrats are pressing for full disclosure of Muellers report on the Russia investigation and vowing to use subpoena powers and other legal means if necessary to get it. Barr was expected to release his first summary of Muellers findings on Sunday, people familiar with the process said. Since receiving the report on Friday, Barr has been deciding how much of it Congress and the public will see. Democrats are anxious over the prospect that some information may be withheld. I suspect that well find those words of transparency to prove hollow, that in fact, they will fight to make sure that Congress doesnt get this underlying evidence, House Intelligence Committee chairman Adam Schiff said on ABCs This Week. His plan: Ask for information and if thats denied, subpoena. If subpoenas are denied, we will haul people before Congress. And yes, we will prosecute in court as necessary to get this information. Barr expected to release summary of Muellers report on Sunday Barr is on pace to release his first summary of Muellers confidential report on Sunday, people familiar with the process said. The attorney general has said he wants to release as much as he can under the law. That decision will require him to weigh the Justice Departments long-standing protocol of not releasing negative information about people who arent indicted against the extraordinary public interest in a criminal investigation into the president and his campaign. Americans await details on probe after conclusion Americans waited for details on Sunday of the special counsels investigation that is shrouded in mystery. Many expressed relief the investigation was finally over. Now maybe we can move on to better things, said Bubba Metts, a 61-year-old conservative from Lexington, South Carolina. Twenty million dollars spent for nothing. Dajah Harris, 21, a college senior at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, is a Democrat and no fan of Trump. But she saw the investigation as a distraction from more important things such as homelessness, college debt, and welfare programmes. I dont feel that where the country is right now that this is something we should even be discussing, she said. Trump remained uncharacteristically silent early Sunday. After months of denouncing the probe as a witch-hunt, the US president had yet to comment on its conclusion. Trumps silence stretches on Trump is yet to address Muellers report, almost 24 hours since news broke that the special counsels investigation had concluded. The president is at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida where he played golf on Saturday, following a meeting with leaders from several Caribbean countries on Friday. Al Jazeeras Gabriel Elizondo, reporting from nearby Palm Beach, said Trump was in the company of his top lawyers and advisers but that the White House had yet to be briefed on the report. They are just as much in the dark as everybody else, he added. When Trump did tweet on Saturday, it was to warn against online propaganda from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS) and announce the withdrawal of newly-issued additional sanctions on North Korea. Congress wont see Muellers findings on Saturday: Justice Department official Barr will not be providing Congress with Muellers findings on Saturday, a senior Justice Department official has told The Associated Press news agency. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorised to publicly discuss the review process. Barr is currently reviewing Muellers confidential report and has said he expects to provide Congress with the principle conclusions this weekend. House Democrats set group call on Mueller report House Democrats are expected to gather by phone as they wait for the Justice Department to send them details of what Mueller has found in his investigation of Russian interference, according to a person familiar with the meeting. The source requested anonymity to discuss the private call. Democrats planned the 3pm conference call on Saturday to discuss strategy and their next steps after they were notified Friday afternoon that Mueller had sent his completed report to Barr. Barr said in a Friday letter to the House and Senate Judiciary committees that he would share Muellers principal conclusions with Congress as soon as Saturday. The special counsels full report is confidential, but Barr says he will be deciding soon how much of it he will release to Congress and the public. Democrats demand release of full report without delay The Democratic chairs of six House committees have demanded that the Justice Department release without delay the full report it has received from Special Counsel Robert Mueller. They said they expect Barr also to turn over all evidence Mueller has uncovered. 190322211626341 The Democrats said since the Justice Department asserts a sitting president cant be indicted, Barrs failure to release evidence of criminal or other misconduct by Trump would raise serious questions about whether the Department of Justice policy is being used as a pretext for a cover-up of misconduct. The six chairs are Jerrold Nadler of Judiciary and Eliot Engel of Foreign Affairs; Elijah Cummings of Oversight and Reform; Adam Schiff of the Intelligence Committee, Maxine Waters of Financial Services and the Ways and Means Committees Richard Neal. Trumps lawyers want early look President Trumps lawyers said they want an early look at Muellers findings before they are made public. Thats according to Rudy Giuliani, Trumps lawyer. He said Trumps legal team has not received any assurances that they will get the early look they want, though. Trump lawyer Giuliani is requesting an early look at Muellers report [File: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters] Mueller to conclude service in coming days Mueller will conclude his government service in the coming days, according to special counsel spokesman Peter Carr. Carr said in a statement that a small number of the offices staff will remain to assist in closing the operations of the office. He did not provide a specific timeline for when that might occur. As of Friday, 11 prosecutors were still employed by the special counsels office. Schiff: House intel panel will issue subpoena if necessary House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff says his panel will issue subpoenas if Muellers report and its underlying evidence are not released to Congress for further review. 190322211626341 The California Democrat said on CNN that Congress needs to know and so does the country. He said he is willing to subpoena Mueller as well as Attorney General Barr, if needed, to push for disclosure. House Democrats now see the Mueller investigation as a starting point for their own probes of President Trump and Russian interference in the 2016 election. Republican senator demands report be made public A top Republican, Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, said the findings of the special counsels Russia investigation must be made public to end the speculation and innuendo that hangs over Trumps administration. The former Judiciary Committee chairman said while it is clear the Russians tried to meddle in our democratic processes, he has still not seen any evidence of collusion. Grassley said Barr must provide the findings from Muellers report to Congress and the American people to finally put an end to the speculation and innuendo that has loomed over this administration since its earliest days. Muller not recommending further indictments Mueller is not recommending any further indictments in the Russia investigation. That is according to a Justice Department official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorised to speak publicly about the confidential recommendation. Graham: We will be brief in coming days Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham said that he and the panels top Democrat, Senator Dianne Feinstein, will be briefed in the coming days about Muellers report. 190322205843843 The South Carolina Republican said he was notified by the Justice Department that Muellers report has been turned over and that the attorney general will pursue as much transparency as possible. Graham said he expects to be more thoroughly briefed. He says he believed it was important for Mueller to do his job without interference, and that has been accomplished. Barr: DOJ did not block Mueller Attorney General Barr said the Justice Department did not block Mueller from taking any action during his Russia investigation. Barr is required to disclose to Congress any instance in which he or Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein decided an action Mueller proposed should not be pursued. He said in his letter to members of Congress on Friday that there were no such instances during the Special Counsels investigation. The attorney general notified four key congresspeople that he may update them over the weekend. McConnell welcomes conclusion of probe Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he welcomes news that Mueller has completed his investigation into Russias efforts to interfere in the 2016 elections. McConnell said he and other Republicans have long believed that Russia poses a significant threat to American interests, adding that he hopes Muellers report will help inform and improve our efforts to protect our democracy. The Kentucky Republican said he hopes that Barr, who received Muellers report on Friday, will provide as much information as possible on the findings, with as much openness and transparency as possible. Georgia Congressman Doug Collins, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, said he expects the Justice Department to release the report to the committee without delay and to the maximum extent permitted by law. Top Dems: Its imperative to make full report public Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is among the Democrats calling for the report to be released to the public in full [File: J. Scott Applewhite/Reuters] House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senator Chuck Schumer said its imperative to make the full report from Mueller public. 190322234420467 The top congressional Democrats said, The American people have a right to the truth. In a joint statement, they said Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or staff any sneak preview of the findings or evidence. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public, they said. Nadler: Congress should be given full report The chairman of the House Judiciary Committee said Congress should receive the full report from Muellers Russia investigation. New York Democrat Jerrold Nadler said in a statement: We look forward to getting the full Mueller report and related materials. He added that transparency and the public interest demand nothing less because the public needs to have faith in the rule of law. Democratic presidential candidates demand full report be made public Democratic presidential candidates have demanded that Attorney General Barr make Muellers report on Russia public. Minutes after Barr notified members of Congress on Friday that Mueller had delivered his report, Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts tweeted that the attorney general should release the Mueller report to the American public. Shortly afterwards, Warren tweeted a call to supporters to sign a petition to have the report made public. Robert Muellers finished his report. Hes delivered it to Attorney General William Barr. The American people deserve the full report. Sign our petition to make the Mueller report publicimmediately. https://t.co/kxhNh7GBWk Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) March 22, 2019 Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey tweeted that the report should be made public immediately. The Trump administrations handling of Muellers report foretells big fights to come, from the presidential campaign trail to, in all likelihood, the federal courts. Trumps lawyers say they are pleased report is delivered President Trumps lawyers said they were pleased that Mueller has delivered his report. Rudy Giuliani and Jay Sekulow issued their joint statement within minutes of Barrs letter to key members of Congress confirming the delivery and suggesting he could update congresspeople as soon as this weekend. Were pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the Attorney General pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps, the statement said. Barrs letter was released to the public shortly after it was shared with key members of Congress [Jim Bourg/Reuters] White House: Next steps are up to Barr Responding to the release of the report, the White House said the next steps are up to Attorney General (William) Barr. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said, We look forward to the process taking its course. She added, The White House has not received or been briefed on the special counsels report. Report delivered by security officer Muellers report concluding the Russia investigation was delivered by a security officer early on Friday afternoon to the office of Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein, according to Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec. It was then delivered within minutes to Attorney General Barr. The White House was notified around 4:35pm that the Justice Department had received the report. The letter was scheduled to be delivered at 5pm to staff members on Capitol Hill. Later on Friday, Rosenstein was expected to call Mueller to thank him for his work in the last two years. Barr could update Congress over weekend The Justice Department says Attorney General Barr is reviewing Muellers final report, which is still confidential. Barr said he could update Congress as early as this weekend about Muellers findings in the Russia investigation. Attorney General William Barr is set to deliver his principal conclusions as soon as Saturday [File: Leah Millis/Reuters] It sets the stage for big public fights to come. The next steps are up to Trumps attorney general, Congress and, in all likelihood, federal courts. It is not clear how much of the report will become public or will be provided to Congress. Barr has said he will write his own report summarising Muellers findings. The nearly two-year probe has shadowed Trumps presidency and resulted in felony charges against 34 people, including six people who served on Trumps campaign. A look at the probe into Russia interference in 2016 election, and possible collusion between Trump campaign and Moscow. Washington US Special Counsel Robert Mueller has concluded the Trump-Russia investigation and handed over his report to Attorney General William Barr on Friday. Mueller was investigating Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and possible collusion between US President Donald Trumps campaign and Moscow. Trump has repeatedly denied any collusion and called the probe a witch-hunt. Russia has denied interfering in the election. Over the course of the nearly two-year investigation, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including several individuals who were at some point an aide or adviser to Trump, and three companies. Heres a detailed look at the Mueller investigation and how we got here: What is the Mueller investigation? The Special Counsel Investigation, also known as the Mueller probe, is an official investigation by the US Department of Justice conducted under special regulations that provide for inquiries outside the normal chain of command. Robert S Mueller III was appointed as special counsel in May 2017 to oversee the governments investigation into Russias attempts to influence the 2016 presidential election in favour of Trump. 190322211626341 Mueller had been FBI Director from 2001 to 2013 and was working in private practice as a lawyer when asked by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein to oversee the FBIs investigation into Russian interference. Mueller assembled an investigative team of 14 prosecutors, FBI agents and other lawyers who have been working out of a separate office from the Department of Justice. The main focus of the Mueller investigation is to determine whether Trump and his 2016 campaign team coordinated with Russia to influence the American election. Trump denies any collusion. Muellers team has taken testimony from dozens of witnesses, subpoenaed documents, and brought charges against 34 people in federal courts in New York, Virginia and Washington. In addition, Mueller has access to classified information collected by US spy agencies and other nations. Related issues include whether President Trump has obstructed justice by attempting to interfere with the FBIs investigation and whether he violated the US campaign finance laws by orchestrating hush payments to two former mistresses. How did we get here? In June and July of 2016, as Trump and Hillary Clinton were securing their party nominations for the presidential election, thousands of hacked emails and stolen documents of the Democratic National Committee and top Clinton campaign officials were published by WikiLeaks. The emails appeared to show top Democrat Party officers had favoured Clinton over her challenger Bernie Sanders, creating a scandal within the party and prompting the resignation of DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz. The FBI began an investigation of the hack. 190322234420467 Trump seized on the email leaks as a campaign issue and tied them back to Clintons controversial use of a private email server while she had been secretary of state during former President Barack Obamas first term. Shortly after the emails were stolen and released, Trump, speaking to reporters, said, Russia, if you are listening, I hope you are able to find the 30,000 emails that are missing. I think you will probably be rewarded mightily by our press. Months later, during an October 2016 presidential debate, Clinton accused Trump of being a puppet for Russian President Vladimir Putin. You wont admit that the Russians engaged in cyberattacks against the United States and that you encouraged cyberattacks against the people of our country, Clinton said. In weeks after the 2016 election, then-President Obama ordered an intelligence community investigation into Russian hacking. Obama followed up on a report by US intelligence agencies, in the waning days of his presidency, by expelling 35 Russian operatives from the US and imposing sanctions on the Russian intelligence service GRU. Indeed, it would later emerge that DCLeaks had been a front for Russian intelligence and WikiLeaks was working in coordination with Russian hackers, according to court information filed by the special counsel. What has Trump said? Trump has called the investigation a hoax and a witch-hunt. He has denied there was any collusion with Russia. Trump has urged investigators to look more closely at Clinton and accused FBI investigators of bias. In January, Trump issued a blistering series of tweets attacking the FBI. Wow, just learned in the Failing New York Times that the corrupt former leaders of the FBI, almost all fired or forced to leave the agency for some very bad reasons, opened up an investigation on me, for no reason & with no proof, after I fired Lyin James Comey, a total sleaze! Trump has said decisions about a forthcoming report would be made by the new Attorney General, William Barr. That will be up to the new attorney general who is a tremendous man, who really respects this country, who really respects the Justice Department. So that will be totally up to him, Trump said. Earlier this week, Trump again criticised the report, but said he does not mind if the public is allowed to see the report that Special Counsel Robert Mueller has prepared. Let it come out, let people see it, Trump said. Lets see whether or not its legit, he said. In October 2018, Trump tweeted about charges brought against his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort. Sorry, but this is years ago, before Paul Manafort was part of the Trump campaign. But why arent Crooked Hillary & the Dems the focus????? Trump frequently expressed frustration with former Attorney General Jeff Sessions who had recused himself from involvement in the special counsel investigation. Sessions should have never recused himself, and if he was going to recuse himself, he should have told me before he took the job and I would have picked someone else, Trump said in an interview with the New York Times newspaper in July 2017. Who has been charged with crimes? Trump associates Roger Stone Roger Stone is a flamboyant US political consultant who has worked for decades on Republican political campaigns. In the summer of 2016, Stone was in touch with senior Trump campaign officials and communicated with WikiLeaks about the timing and nature of hacked email releases, according to a January 24 indictment filed by Mueller. Stone is charged with lying to Congress, obstructing the House Intelligence Committees inquiry and witness tampering. Stone has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial in federal court in Washington. Roger Stone leaves the federal court on January 25, 2019, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida [File: Joe Raedle/Getty Images/AFP] Michael Cohen From 2007 to 2017, Michael Cohen was Trumps personal lawyer and in-house counsel to Trumps real estate company. In August 2018, Cohen reached a plea agreement with federal prosecutors in New York on charges of tax evasion and orchestrating payments to two women who had affairs with Trump. Cohen has been sentenced to three years in jail but remains free while he is cooperating with the Mueller probe. Cohen has informed investigators about Trumps continuing discussion of building a tower in Moscow during the 2016 campaign, according to court documents. Cohen paid $130,000, at Trumps direction, to adult film star Stephanie Clifford, aka Stormy Daniels, in order to secure her silence about having sex with Trump. The president has denied having sex with Clifford. Cohen orchestrated a $150,000 payment by the owner of the tabloid National Enquirer to former Playboy model Karen McDougal to prevent her from speaking about an affair with Trump. New York prosecutors construed the payments as illegal money contributions to Trumps 2016 political campaign. In December 2018, in an agreement with Mueller, Cohen pleaded guilty to lying to Congress. He is expected to begin his three-year prison sentence in May. Michael Cohen arrives to testify before the House Oversight and Reform Committee [File: Mandel Ngan/AFP] Paul Manafort Paul Manafort was Trumps presidential campaign chairman from March to August 2016. He is a longtime Republican political consultant and a US lobbyist for leaders of other countries, including the pro-Russia former Ukraine President Viktor Yanukovych. He has been the target of two separate prosecutions in federal courts in Washington and Virginia. Manafort participated in the June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower between Donald Trump Jr, Jared Kushner and Russian lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya. The group discussed Russian sanctions and a potential exchange of negative information on Clinton. Manafort left the Trump campaign in August 2016 after his work for Yanukovych became a focus of US media attention. The FBI searched Manaforts home in July 2017, seizing documents and other materials. In October 2017, Manafort was arrested and charged in federal court in Washington with money laundering, acting as an unregistered foreign agent, conspiracy and making false statements. He was further charged with witness tampering in June 2018. A subsequent plea agreement in the case has been thrown into question after the judge found Manafort had lied to the FBI and Mueller about his Russian business associate Konstantin Kilimnik. Prosecutors say Kilimnik has ties to Russian intelligence. Separately, Manafort was charged in February 2018 in federal court in Virginia with tax avoidance and bank fraud. After a trial, he was convicted on eight counts of financial fraud and currently awaits sentencing. Manafort has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison. Former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort arrives at the E Barrett Prettyman US Courthouse for a hearing on June 15, 2018, in Washington [File: Mark Wilson/AFP] Rick Gates Rick Gates is Manaforts former business partner in their lobbying firm. He was charged equally with Manafort of 12 counts of conspiracy, making false statements and money laundering in the October 2017 indictment. Gates agreed to cooperate with prosecutors and pleaded guilty to one conspiracy charge and one false statement charge. In this February 23, 2018 photo, Rick Gates leaves federal court in Washington [File: Jose Luis Magana/AP] Michael Flynn A retired US Army officer and former head of the Defense Intelligence Agency, Michael Flynn formed his own national security consultancy in 2014 working for private corporations and foreign governments. He joined the Trump campaign in 2016 as a top adviser on foreign policy. Flynn campaigned for Trump while at the same time working quietly for the Turkish government. After Obamas expulsion of Russian diplomats at the end of 2016, Flynn spoke with Russias US Ambassador Sergey Kislyak on behalf of the incoming Trump administration urging a moderated response from Moscow. After taking office, Trump named Flynn to his White House team as the national security adviser. Flynn lasted 24 days, the shortest tenure ever for anyone in that post. He resigned on February 13, 2017, amid reports of his contacts with Kislyak. He later stipulated in a plea agreement with Mueller that he had lied about those contacts in an FBI interview. Flynn has been cooperating with Muellers investigation. His sentencing has been postponed. Michael Flynn reacts at a campaign event for then-Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump in Virginia Beach, Virginia [File: Mike Segar/Reuters] George Papadopoulos Papadopoulos was a Trump campaign operative who tried to organise meetings between Trump officials and representatives of the Russian government. He believed he was advancing Trumps agenda of improving US relations with Russia. Papadopoulos pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI and cooperated with investigators. He served 14 days in prison in late 2018. Notably, Papadopoulos had drawn FBI attention during the summer of 2016 after an Australian diplomat in London recounted to US authorities a conversation with Papadopoulos. The encounter had taken place over drinks in a bar and Papadopoulos had mentioned Russia had political dirt on Clinton. Former Trump campaign aide George Papadopoulos with his wife Simona Mangiante seen leaving after his sentencing hearing at US District Court in Washington [File: Yuri Gripas/Reuters] Russians GRU intelligence agents In July 2018, Mueller filed a detailed 29-page indictment naming 12 Russian intelligence GRU officers alleging they hacked the Democrats and Clinton computers, stole emails, and staged releases of documents using fictional personas, Guccifer 2.0 and DCLeaks. Putin and the Russian government have denied any involvement in the alleged hacks. In the spring and summer of 2016, according to the indictment, the Russian hackers targeted more than 300 people working for Clinton and the Democratic Party, sending spear-phishing emails to steal passwords and gain access to computers. The hackers installed malware on the computer networks of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and the Democratic National Committee. They then copied emails, opposition research and field operation plans. They used bitcoin to fund the operation. The indictment indicated potential coordination between the Russian hackers and a person connected to the Trump campaign, alleging the hackers communicated with a person who was in regular contact with senior members of the presidential campaign of Donald J Trump. Roger Stone said at the time he believed he was the unnamed person referenced by Mueller. The indictment further revealed that on the same day as Trumps press conference comments July 27, 2016, urging Russia to find Clintons lost emails, the Russians attempted to spear-phish Clintons personal email accounts. Internet Research Agency (aka The Russian Troll Farm) On February 16, 2018, in a 37-page indictment, the Special Counsels office brought charges against Yevgeniy Prigozhin, three companies he controlled and 12 other Russian nationals who allegedly engaged in sophisticated cyberattacks on the US political system beginning in 2014 and continuing through the 2016 election. Prigozhin is a Russian businessman with ties to Putin, known colloquially as Putins chef. The operatives posed online as Americans and sought to foment discord in swing states through social media. A view of a Business centre, believed to be the location of the new troll farm in St Petersburg, Russia [Mstyslav Chernov/AP] Konstantin Kilimnik Kilimnik is a Russian-Ukrainian translator who worked for Manafort and Gates as head of a consulting office in Kiev doing political and public relations work for Yanukovych. Kilimnik is a former GRU officer with continuing ties to Russian intelligence and Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, according to court information. Mueller charged Kilimnik and Manafort together with witness tampering in an attempt to cover up $75m unreported funds Manafort held in offshore accounts, some of which was used to pay for pro-Yanukovych lobbying in the US and Europe. Kilimnik, Manafort and Gates remained in contact during the 2016 presidential campaign, according to court documents. A look at the key players entangled in special counsel Robert Muellers Russia probe. US Special Counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his investigation into Russias role in the 2016 presidential election and whether President Donald Trump unlawfully sought to obstruct the probe. Mueller delivered his final report to US Attorney General William Barr on Friday. Trump has repeatedly denied collusion and obstruction, calling the investigation a witch-hunt. Russia has denied interfering in the election. Over the course of the 21-month investigation, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including six aides and advisers to the president, and three companies. Here are the key players in the probe: Paul Manafort Paul Manafort, the former chairman of Trumps campaign, has been convicted in Washington and Virginia of crimes related to years of Ukrainian political consulting work, including allegations he concealed his foreign government work from the US and failed to pay taxes on it. Then-Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump gives a thumbs up as his campaign manager Paul Manafort looks on during Trumps walk-through at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland [File: Rick Wilking/Reuters] Though the charges dont directly touch Trump, Manafort has nonetheless remained a figure of considerable intrigue and enjoys the continued sympathy of the president, who has left open the door for a pardon. He is now serving a more than seven-year prison sentence. Michael Flynn Trumps former national security adviser, Michael Flynn, pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI just days after Trump took office by telling agents that he had never discussed sanctions with the then Russian ambassador to the US. The White House said Flynn had misled administration officials, including Vice President Mike Pence, about the conversation and removed him weeks later. He has since become a vital cooperator for Mueller, having met 19 times with investigators. Prosecutors arent recommending any prison time when hes sentenced next week. Michael Cohen Trumps longtime lawyer and fixer, Michael Cohen, is at the centre of not only Muellers investigation but also a separate, and rapidly mushrooming, investigation into hush-money payments. Michael Cohen is sworn in to testify at a hearing on Capitol Hill [File: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters] In Muellers investigation, Cohen has admitted lying to Congress about a proposed real estate development in Moscow. He told politicians the negotiations were done in January 2016 when in fact they stretched deep into the campaign. He also pleaded guilty in New York to campaign finance violations stemming from the payments, with prosecutors saying last week that he acted in coordination and at the direction of Individual 1 or Trump. George Papadopoulos George Papadopoulos, the former Trump campaign foreign policy adviser served a 14-day prison sentence after admitting lying to the FBI about a 2016 conversation with a Maltese professor who told him that Russia had dirt on Hillary Clinton in the form of stolen emails. Information about Papadopouloss contacts during the campaign started the FBIs Russia investigation. Russian intelligence Twelve Russian military intelligence officers were charged in July with hacking into email accounts of Clintons presidential campaign and the Democratic Party and then facilitating the release of tens of thousands of private communications. It remains perhaps the most direct example of what intelligence officials say was a broad conspiracy by the Kremlin to meddle in the 2016 election on Trumps behalf. Russian online trolls A separate indictment charges 13 Russians with funding a covert social media propaganda campaign to sow discord among Americans in the run-up to the 2016 presidential election. Prosecutors say the scheme was run by a Russia-based troll farm that used bogus social media postings and advertisements fraudulently purchased in the name of Americans to try to influence the race. Roger Stone A longtime Trump confidant, and self-proclaimed dirty trickster of Republican politics, Roger Stone is charged with witness tampering and lying to Congress about his efforts to gain advance knowledge of WikiLeakss plans to release damaging information on Clinton during 2016. Roger Stone arrives for his arraignment at US District Court in Washington [File: Leah Millis/Reuters] Though a Stone tweet from 2016 Trust me, it will soon the Podestas time in the barrel appeared to presage the disclosure of hacked emails, Stone has said he had no inside knowledge about the content, source or timing of WikiLeakss disclosure. He has also pleaded not guilty to the federal charges brought by Mueller. Julian Assange WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange, who has been under Justice Department scrutiny for years for the groups role in publishing government secrets, has been an important figure in the Mueller probe as investigators examine how WikiLeaks obtained emails stolen from Clintons campaign and Democratic groups. Prosecutors have also investigated whether any Americans were involved in coordinating that effort. Separately, prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia inadvertently disclosed the existence of a sealed criminal complaint against the WikiLeaks founder, though no details have been publicly announced. Donald Trump Jr The presidents eldest son has attracted scrutiny for his role in arranging a Trump Tower meeting in June 2016 also attended by Manafort and Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner at which he expected to receive damaging information on Clinton. He has said the meeting was a waste of time because he didnt receive anything interesting from the lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya. Both he and his father have suggested that anyone in that position would have taken such a meeting in hopes of getting dirt on a political opponent. The meeting has been of interest to investigators, who have called multiple participants before the grand jury. Seven candidates running in the 2020 presidential race said they will not attend next weeks AIPAC conference. Washington At least seven top Democratic and presidential candidates running in the 2020 election will not attend next weeks American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) annual policy conference. The conference by the United States-based lobbying group, which advocates pro-Israel policies, tends to lead both Republicans and Democrats competing over speaker spots. But this year, Democrats have decided to shun the entire three-day event after growing pressure calling politicians to boycott the conference. The Democrats who have so far said they would not attend include, Pete Buttigieg, Julian Castro, Kamala Harris, Jay Inslee, Beto ORourke, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, liberal advocacy group MoveOn told Al Jazeera. It is not clear if any of the politicians had planned. A survey, published by MoveOn on Wednesday, found that 74 percent of its members agreed that any progressive vying to be the Democratic nominee for president should skip the AIPAC conference. {articleGUID} Iram Ali, director of political action at MoveOn, said the change of heart was not sudden. She said it follows years of changing conversation about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and a shifting tide to how progressives view AIPAC. AIPAC clearly is a partisan lobbying group that has undermined diplomatic efforts and progressives want no part in it, Ali told Al Jazeera. I think this means that AIPAC stances and policies are coming to the forefront. They can no longer pretend to be a bipartisan group, she added. As well as strongly opposing the nuclear deal former President Barack Obama struck with Iran, AIPAC has also failed to condemn anti-semitic statements made by Republicans and Islamophobia, she said, adding that Congress freshmen have shown a willingness to take a different stance on the lobby group. Sanderss policy director Josh Orton confirmed to local media that Sanders planned to skip the conference. Hes concerned about the platform AIPAC is providing for leaders who have expressed bigotry and oppose a two-state solution, he said. According to the Associated Press news agency, Gillibrands senior adviser, Glen Caplin, said, Senator Gillibrand was not planning to speak at the policy conference and will not be attending. As she does every year, she will meet separately with her New York constituents. The AP also reported that presidential candidate John Delaney would not attend due to a scheduling conflict. His aide told the news agency that the former congressman was disappointed to miss the conference. Change in the Democratic Party Ilhan Omar, one of the first two Muslim congresswomen in US history, was under fire for weeks earlier this year over what was labelled as anti-Semitic rhetoric, which led to an offshoot conversation of AIPACs influence in Washington. In support of Omar, Sanders, who is Jewish, said anti-Semitism should not be equated with legitimate criticism of the right-wing government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Warren warned that 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. Harris also expressed concern over the condemnation Omar had received and called for a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. James Zogby, president of the Arab American Institute, said Omar was not the reason for the Democrats pulling out of the event. He said that the decisions by some to not attend were a result of a change in the Democratic Party, period. I am thankful never in my lifetime did we imagine or think people would be seeing AIPAC [this way], he told Al Jazeera. He said a change in the polling demographics shows that people are moving decidedly away from policies put forward by the Israeli government. {articleGUID} We have [US President Donald] Trump and [Benjamin] Netanyahu to thank for this, he said, adding that the duo were exhibiting the worse form of macho male behaviour. They are what is changing in the constituency in the Democratic Party. He added that both this boycott and the Omar controversy were symptoms of what is taking place in the larger political landscape in the country. In response this morning to the event boycotts, Trump said, Democrats have very much proven to be anti-Israel and frankly I think they are anti-Jewish. Among those scheduled to speak next week at the AIPAC conference are Netanyahu, Vice President Mike Pence, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senator Mitch McConnell. AIPAC was not immediately available for comments. Several vessels and helicopters take part in the rescue, as facilities to receive passengers are set up on land. Officials in Norway say they have managed to rescue about 100 people from a cruise ship stranded off the countrys western coast amid ongoing evacuation operations. The maritime rescue service on Saturday said the Viking Sky, which suffered an engine failure and has roughly 1,300 passengers and crew on board, had sent a mayday signal as it had been drifting towards land. The crew was later able to restart one engine and the vessel was at anchor about two kilometres from land in Hustadsvika Bay, allowing the evacuation effort to continue. Rescue teams with helicopters and boats were sent to help, and the evacuation process was expected to take several hours. If we need to evacuate everyone, it will take a long time, rescue service spokesperson Einar Knudsen was quoted as saying by Reuters news agency. Police Chief Tor Andrew Franck, however, said that unfavourable weather conditions meant that we would prefer to have the passengers at land rather than on board ship. Norwegian public broadcaster NRK said the Viking Skys evacuation was likely to be a slow and dangerous process, as passengers needed to be hoisted from the cruise ship to the five available helicopters one by one. Authorities told NRK that a strong storm with high waves was preventing rescue workers from using lifeboats or other vessels in taking passengers ashore. Its a demanding exercise, because they [passengers] have to hang in the air under a helicopter and theres a very, very strong wind, Odd Roar Lange, a witness at the site, told NRK. Eight people suffered light injuries and had been evacuated, said the rescue service, which was coordinating the response. It did not give details of how the people were hurt. According to the cruisemapper.com website, the Viking Sky was on a 12-day trip that began March 14 in the western Norwegian city of Bergen. The ship was visiting the Norwegian towns and cities of Narvik, Alta, Tromso, Bodo and Stavanger before its scheduled arrival on Tuesday in the British port of Tilbury on the River Thames. The Viking Sky, built in 2017, belongs to Viking Ocean Cruises, part of the Viking Cruises group founded by Norwegian billionaire Torstein Hagen. According to the companys website, its passenger capacity is 930. The president said the country desired peace in the region but warned the quest for peace is not a sign of weakness. Pakistan has been showing off its military might as part of national day celebrations. Regional tensions between India and Pakistan remain high following last months suicide attack in disputed Kashmir that left dozens of Indian soldiers dead and escalated into a major standoff between the two nuclear-armed powers. Al Jazeeras Kamal Hyder reports from Islamabad. The US city of Pittsburgh is bracing for protests, a day after a jurys decision to acquit a white police officer who fatally shot an unarmed black teenager last year. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld was charged with homicide for shooting Antwon Rose II in the back as the 17-year-old ran away from a high-stakes traffic stop last June. But Rosfeld walked out of the courtroom a free man on Friday after jurors rejected the prosecutions argument that he acted as Roses judge, jury and executioner, in the words of an assistant district attorney. The decision was met with sadness and anger by the family of the teen. I hope that man never sleeps at night, Roses mother, Michelle Kenney, said of Rosfeld, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none. The verdict leaves Roses family to pursue the federal civil rights lawsuit they filed last August against Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh, a small municipality about 16km from central Pittsburgh. Roses death one of many high-profile killings of black men and teens by white police officers in recent years spurred angry protests in the Pittsburgh area last year, including a late-night march that shut down a major highway. 180623071641986 The reaction was measured after Friday nights verdict, with a small group of chanting protesters briefly blocking intersections and entering hotels. Pittsburgh police tweeted the peaceful demonstration had resulted in rolling, temporary road closures. Rose was riding in an unlicensed taxi that had been involved in a drive-by shooting minutes earlier when Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot the 17-year-old in the back, arm and side of the face as he ran away. The former officer told jurors he thought Rose or another suspect had a gun pointed at him, insisting he fired his weapon to protect himself and the community. Neither teen was holding one when Rosfeld opened fire, though two guns were later found in the car. Rose posed no threat whatsoever to Rosfeld or others, said the familys lawyer, Fred Rabner. Make no mistake, there is nothing reasonable or appropriate about the manner Officer Rosfeld took Antwons life. It isnt what I hoped for, but its what I expected The seven-member panel saw video footage of the fatal confrontation, which showed Rose falling to the ground after being hit. The acquittal came after fewer than four hours of deliberations on the fourth day of the trial. Defence lawyer Patrick Thomassey told reporters that Rosfeld is a good man. He said to me many times, Patrick, this has nothing to do with the kids colour. I was doing what I was trained to do. Thomassey said he hoped the city remained calm, and everybody takes a deep breath and gets on with their lives. Michelle Kenney, Roses mother, said she was upset but unsurprised by the verdict, given other cases in which police officers have either avoided charges or won acquittals in similar shootings. It isnt what I hoped for, but its what I expected, she said, adding she feels her son ended up dead because he was black. Questions raised At trial, the prosecution and the defence sparred over whether Rosfeld who had worked for the East Pittsburgh Police Department for only a few weeks and was officially sworn in just hours before the fatal shooting was justified in using lethal force. Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Fodi declared in his closing argument that Rosfeld had acted as judge, jury and executioner, and the video evidence showed there was no threat to the officer. We dont shoot first and ask questions later, the prosecutor added. But a defence expert testified Rosfeld was within his rights to use deadly force to stop suspects he thought had been involved in a shooting. Prosecutors did not call their own use-of-force expert. The prosecutions handling of this case, particularly the decision not to call a police expert, raises many questions, said Reggie Shuford, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania. Rose had been riding in the front seat of the cab when another occupant, Zaijuan Hester, in the back, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street, hitting one in the abdomen. A few minutes later, Rosfeld spotted their car, which had its rear windshield shot out, and pulled it over. Rosfeld ordered the driver to the ground, but Rose and another passenger jumped out and began running away. Rosfeld fired three times in quick succession. The defence said the shooting was justified because Rosfeld believed he was in danger and could not wait for other officers to get there. Hes a sitting duck, Thomassey told jurors in his closing argument, asking them to consider the standard of what a reasonable police officer would do under the circumstances. Hester, 18, pleaded guilty last week to aggravated assault and firearms violations. Hester told a judge that he, not Rose, did the shooting. Prosecutors had charged Rosfeld with an open count of homicide, meaning the jury had the option of convicting him of murder or manslaughter. The prosecution said Rosfeld gave inconsistent statements about the shooting, including whether he thought Rose was armed. Maryam Nawaz thanked govt Maryam Nawaz posted a tweet thanking the government,"I am told that MNSs blood samples to check his renal function (urea & creatinine) have been taken," she wrote, referring to her father. "Thank you very much. I hope the lab results, as soon as they come, will also be shared with me." And then she tweeted: "Permission to meet MNS also granted. Thank you again," she said, without naming her addressee. A few hours prior, Maryam had retweeted a post by Dr Adnan, Sharif's personal physician, in which he had claimed that the former prime minister has a dull ache in his sides. Citing "underlying Chronic Kidney Disease (Stage 3) and Nephrolithiasis besides significant heart disease" as the reason for his emergency visit, the physician had claimed that access to Sharif was denied by jail authorities. "Jail authorities are requested to get Complete Renal Profile and Ultrasound KUB done to assess renal status," he had requested. What followed was a flood of tweets by Maryam in which she sought to call attention to the claim that Sharif's renal condition is worsening and that his doctor "was made to wait [for] 2 hours outside [the] jail, was not allowed in and sent back". At one point she even vowed to stand outside the jail tomorrow until access is granted to her, but later said she would forgo the plan on her father's instructions. Maryam in her tweets claimed that letters requesting permission to visit her father had been sent by her without any response given in turn by the government. This prompted the Punjab chief minister's spokesperson, Shahbaz Gill, to issue a series of video messages in which he talked in detail about Sharif's daily activities, food intake and health indicators such as blood pressure, rejecting all claims made by the former premier's daughter. Gill, in response to Maryam's tweets about the letters, said that one had been sent on March 21 and was received today whereas the second she had tweeted about (dated March 22) had not been received as yet and will likely arrive in a day or two. He called into question the alleged manner in which Sharif's health continued to be "politicised and used as a tool for vengeance" and regretted the way "false propaganda" was being spread, that too ahead of March 23. The spokesperson assured Maryam that her father was receiving the best of medical attention and had not complained of anything in the past 12 days with the exception of a dull ache in the tooth for which a dental surgeon was called in immediately. He said that blood and urine samples had already been taken and sent to the laboratory and promised that the results will be shared as soon as they arrive. Shahbaz Gill addressing Maryam's tweets. Maryam has accused the government multiple times of trying to prevent her and Sharif's physician from visiting him, with the government refuting all such claims each time. Sharif is serving a seven-year imprisonment sentence in the Kot Lakhpat jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case. The 69-year-old underwent heart surgery in London in May 2016. He has undergone cardiac procedures twice during the past eight years. US Secretary of State Pompeo says sanctions on Iran and Hezbollah are working, but experts are divided. Beirut, Lebanon A seven-minute media address by United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday was dominated by his countrys preoccupation with Hezbollah and, in effect, its patron Iran. Pompeo read out his statement during his visit to Beirut as his Lebanese counterpart Gebran Bassil watched with an unwavering gaze. The top US diplomat minced no words while declaring the intentions of President Donald Trumps administration to take on Hezbollah for its criminal activities and terrorist network albeit by peaceful means. Referring to a recent televised speech by Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, Pompeo claimed success of US sanctions against the group, saying Nasrallah begged for contributions. Trump has reversed his predecessor Barack Obamas Middle East policy, abandoning the much-hailed 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposing sanctions. The US has since imposed additional sanctions on Hezbollah as well. Bassils address took on a different tone to Pompeos, however, with the foreign minister reaffirming that Hezbollah is not a terrorist organisation, has a large support base and is part of Lebanons national unity government. Political and military growth In October, the US designated Hezbollah as a transnational crime threat, alleging that the groups network spans across West Africa and South America and is involved in money laundering, drug trafficking and terrorism. However, Thanassis Cambanis, a fellow with The Century Foundation and author of a book on Hezbollah, said that while the sanctions made life harder for Hezbollah, they have done nothing to stop its political or military growth. 190322174514076 American efforts to weaken and isolate Hezbollah have created myriad practical problems for the organisation but do nothing to accomplish the fundamental United States goal of containing Hezbollah politically and militarily, Cambanis told Al Jazeera. Terror-listing and sanctions make it difficult for Hezbollahs non-military operations. They do nothing, however, to reduce Hezbollahs reach as a military power, he added. Hezbollah has grown from being an Iranian proxy inside Lebanon to a regional armed force over the last decade. It has sent fighters in thousands to the Syrian war. Those who survived have returned battle-hardened. The group has also aided Shia militias in Iraq and backed the Houthis in Yemen. Hezbollah has been forming a bloc against Israel in South Lebanon but now it is also present in southern Syria in the part of Golan Heights still under Syrian control. The group has also gained power politically and dominates the Lebanese parliament. Along with its allies, Hezbollah has over 70 of the 128 parliamentary seats and three ministers in the cabinet. Preserving unity Lebanese politicians, including President Michelle Aoun, base their support for Hezbollah on the need to preserve unity among the different factions represented in Lebanons sectarian divisions of power. Alain Aoun, an MP with President Aoun and Gebran Basils Free Patriotic Movement, told Al Jazeera that while the US was free to limit whatever it deemed to be Hezbollahs external acts, within Lebanon, Hezbollah was a legitimate part of the society. The US must not take punitive measures against Lebanese people, said Aoun. We are Hezbollahs political allies, as it represents a major Lebanese community, but this does not mean that we know what is happening outside. 190308132705535 Although many had feared Pompeo would announce further sanctions, he promised that the US would continue to support Lebanese state institutions, including financially. His words were underlaid with veiled warnings that continued reliance on Hezbollah would risk Lebanons economic prospects. Lebanon faces a choice; bravely move forward as an independent and proud nation or allow the dark ambitions of Iran and Hezbollah to dictate your future, Pompeo said in his address. He also reminded the Lebanese people of the $800m the US provided to Lebanon in pecuniary support just last year. How much has Hezbollah or Iran provided, asked Pompeo, adding that Iran gives Hezbollah $700m a year. Interestingly, and perhaps not coincidentally, he visited Lebanon after Israel, just as President Trump recognised Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights. The Trump administration has already moved its embassy to disputed Jerusalem and is preparing a deal to resolve the conflict with Palestine that will reportedly mirror many of Israels demands. The lasting effect of US policy is yet to be seen. However, Cambanis of The Century Foundation believes the US should adopt a more nuanced approach towards Hezbollah. Sanctions against Hezbollah have already ensued a siege mentality among its followers. This is unlikely to weaken the group and instead give it more control, more supporters. Historic flooding continues across the Great Plains and Midwest and it could be early summer before the waters recede. Flood waters continue to rise across the United States and there are fears that many parts of the Mississippi River will remain above flood stage for a further two or three months. Many waterways across the Great Plains into the Midwest have been hit by heavy spring rains. That accompanied by rapid snowmelt and ice jams have led to a massive and destructive rise in water levels. The mayor of Atchison, Kansas, Shawn Rizza, monitored the increased water level of the Missouri River from a Kansas Highway Patrol aircraft on Friday. Rizza encouraged residents of Atchison to volunteer for cleanup activities as the water recedes. Paddocks at Washington County Fairgrounds are partially underwater due to flooding in Arlington, Nebraska [Humeyra Pamuk/Reuters] The flood crest was expected to reach the Kansas towns of Atchison and Leavenworth, about 55 kilometres further downstream, on Saturday, and Kansas City as early as Sunday, officials said. Missouri River flooding was triggered by last weeks bomb cyclone storm, which killed at least four people in Nebraska and Iowa, left a man missing below Nebraskas collapsed Spencer Dam, and inflicted an estimated $1.5bn in damages in Nebraska. On Thursday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued their spring outlook. They report that the situation for the central US is soon going to get much, much worse. The extensive flooding weve seen in the past two weeks will continue through May and become more dire and may be exacerbated in the coming weeks as the water flows downstream, said Ed Clark, director of NOAAs National Water Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, in a statement. This is shaping up to be a potentially unprecedented flood season, with more than 200 million people at risk for flooding in their communities. Of the total, about 41 million people are at risk for moderate flooding and 14 million more for major flooding. The US charges that SPND oversees nuclear-relevant research for Iran and is active in the training of new scientists. The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on 14 people and 17 entities connected to an Iranian research organisation it said had played a central role in the countrys past nuclear weapons effort and which remains active. Among those designated for sanctions was the Shahid Karimi group, which works on missile and explosive-related projects for Irans Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research, and four associated individuals, the US Treasury Department said in a statement. The US charges that the organisation, known by its Farsi acronym SPND, oversees nuclear-relevant research for Iran and is active in the training of new scientists. In 2008, the US sanctioned SPNDs head, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. The announcement coincided with a visit on Friday by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Beirut, where he was expected to focus on Lebanons ties to the heavily armed, Iran-backed Hezbollah. The US government is taking decisive action against actors at all levels in connection with Irans Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND) who have supported the Iranian regimes defence sector, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said. {articleGUID} An administration official, who spoke on a conference call with the Reuters news agency on condition of anonymity, warned that any association with SPND or its subordinate groups makes them radioactive and open to US sanctions. A second official told Reuters the sanctions were aimed at trying to pressure Tehran to negotiate a more comprehensive nuclear deal with the US. It is not just putting pressure on Iran to reach a diplomatic negotiated solution, we are highlighting continued existence of the SPND, the official said. Iran deal In his first year in office in 2017, President Donald Trump withdrew the US from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), signed in 2015 between Iran and six world powers, which aimed to curb Irans nuclear programme. France, Britain, Germany, China and Russia remain part of the nuclear agreement, despite the reimposition of sanctions by the US against Iran. The crux of the deal, negotiated over almost two years by the Obama administration, was that Iran would restrain its nuclear programme in return for the relaxation of sanctions that had crippled its economy. Trump considered it flawed because it did not include curbs on ballistic missiles or regional activity. Fridays steps target current SPND subordinate groups, supporters, front companies, and associated officials. The move freezes any US assets of those targeted and bans US dealings with them. {articleGUID} Todays action serves as a warning to individuals and entities considering dealing with the Iranian regimes defence sector in general, and SPND in particular: by engaging in sanctionable activity with designated Iranian persons, you risk professional, personal, and financial isolation, the US Treasury said in a statement. Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Thursday that Tehran was determined to boost its defence capabilities despite mounting pressure from the US and its allies to curb its ballistic missile programme. Governments call SDF capture of groups last remaining stronghold in Syria a milestone but warn of remaining threats. Leaders from a number of countries are reacting to the announcement by US-backed forces that they have captured the last enclave held by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS) group in Syria, eliminating the groups so-called caliphate. After weeks of heavy fighting and aerial bombardment, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on Saturday declared victory over ISIL, saying they had flushed the groups fighters from their last remaining stronghold in the eastern town of Baghouz, on the banks of the Euphrates River. We announce today the destruction of the so-called Islamic State organisation and the end of its ground control in its last pocket in Baghouz, Mazloum Abdi, SDF general commander, told a victory ceremony. The SDF has been Washingtons partner on the ground in Syria, spearheading the fight against ISIL, for the past five years. {articleGUID} The announcement marked the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate that ISIL originally an offshoot of al-Qaeda carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. Yet the capture of Baghouz will likely not mark the end of ISIL as a force in the region, according to analysts. Heres the initial regional and international reaction to the news of the fall of ISILs last bastion. Syrias Kurds The top military commander of the SDF urged the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to choose the path of dialogue after ISILs military defeat, as he announced a new phase in the conflict. We call on the central government in Damascus to prefer the process of dialogue, Mazloum Kobane said in a statement. He also called on Damascus to start practical steps to reach a political solution based on the recognition of autonomous institutions and of the SDFs special status. Commenting on the battle against ISIL, he said that a new phase in the fight against terrorists is beginning, adding that the target was now to eliminate the groups sleeper cells. United States President Donald Trump said that the US will remain vigilant against ISIS by aligning global counterterrorism efforts to fight the armed group until it is finally defeated. To all of the young people on the internet believing in ISISs propaganda, you will be dead if you join, Trump said in a statement. Think instead about having a great life. While on occasion these cowards will resurface, they have lost all prestige and power, he said, adding they are losers and will always be losers. Meanwhile, William Roebuck, the State Departments deputy special envoy to the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, hailed the demise of ISIL as a critical milestone. We congratulate the Syrian people and particularly the Syrian Democratic Forces on the destruction of ISISs fraudulent caliphate, said Roebuck. While we have completed the territorial defeat of ISIS in Syria and Iraq, we still have much work to do to achieve an enduring defeat of ISIS ISIS remains a significant threat in the region, (to) the United States and our partners and allies, he added. France President Emmanuel Macron said a source of potential violence had been eliminated but warned that the threat remains and the fight against terrorist groups must continue. Syrian Democratic Forces have announced that Daeshs last stronghold has fallen. I pay homage to our partners and to the armies of the international coalition, of which France is part, Macron said on Twitter. They fought the terrorists with determination for our security. United Kingdom Prime Minister Theresa May called the bastions fall a historic milestone in the fight against ISIL, and said the British government remained committed to eradicating their poisonous ideology. The liberation of the last Daesh-held territory wouldnt have been possible without the immense courage of UK military and our allies, she said on Twitter, using the groups acronym in Arabic. We will continue to do what is necessary to protect the British people, our Allies and partners from the threat Daesh poses. Britain said its armed forces had nearly 1,400 personnel in the region providing support to local forces in addition to numerous air attacks carried out by the Royal Air Force. Britains army has also helped train Iraqi security forces. Germany Foreign Minister Heiko Maas described the end of the so-called caliphate as an important step. He warned, however, that it was clear that ISIL continues to represent a considerable threat. We shall not underestimate that threat, he said. After years of fighting, it was finally time to dance. As their commanders on Saturday declared final victory over the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS), the soldiers of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) unfurled their yellow flag atop a bullet-ridden building in celebration. They celebrated the victory with the Dabke, a folk dance, and embracing each other, though with tears in their eyes for the loss of 11,000 fellow fighters killed in the long war against ISIL. Mazloum Kobani, general commander of the US-backed Kurdish-led forces, appeared on a stage erected at the Omar oilfields near Baghouz ISILs last enclave in eastern Syria and the site of heavy battles in recent weeks and told the world that it was the efforts of the SDF that led to the defeat of the armed group. SDF had freed five million people from terrorism and liberated 52,000 square kilometres of Syrian territory, Kobani said. Were so happy today, we raised the names of our martyrs and didnt waste their sacrifices, Smako Shekaki, a Kurdish field SDF commander, told Al Jazeera on the phone. Wont forget our revenge The SDF is led by the Kurdish YPG (Peoples Protection Units), but it also includes Arab and Christian brigades and tribal fighters, including members of the Shaitat tribe. In 2014, hundreds of the tribes men were shot or beheaded after being captured by ISIL in eastern Syria. 190323140353285 Ayman Allawi, a Shaitat commander with the SDF, dedicated the victory to the mothers of his slain fellow tribesmen. We are so happy, and the fighters are enjoying the taste of victory, as now the atrocities and unfairness of Daesh are over, he said, using ISILs Arabic acronym. We have lived bitter days because of them. The happiest are the mothers of the martyrs of 2014. Tamim al-Shaiti lost three of his cousins in the killings five years ago. Were all happy for the defeat of Daesh but wont forget our revenge even after 100 years, he said from his village in Syrias eastern Deir Az Zor province. The blood of our brothers wont be in vain. We will look for Daeshs supporters and sleeper cells and bury them. Future autonomy within Syria The SDF fighters, the main ground ally of Western powers in the fight against ISIL, are now hoping that their military victory will help win them future autonomy within Syria. US President Donald Trump has reversed a previous decision to withdraw all troops, giving assurances he would maintain a limited mission in eastern Syria. Nonetheless, following ISILs defeat, there seem to be fears within the SDF that he might again change his mind. In his speech, Kobani said that while the SDF would continue to ensure stability in the area by targeting ISILs sleeper cells in the post-war phase, a dialogue with Damascus leading to a political solution was necessary. Last week, the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad threatened to retake SDF-held areas by force if necessary. We call on the central government in Damascus to prefer the process of dialogue and start practical steps to reach a political solution based on the recognition of elected self-administrations in northeast of Syria and acceptance of the special nature of the Syrian Democratic Forces, Kobani said. General Kobani also appealed to Turkey to talk and resolve its differences with Syrian Kurds instead of interfering in Syrian internal affairs. Aron Lund, a fellow with The Century Foundation, said the Kurds were in a difficult position. The moment the US leaves, if not before, theyre going to be sandwiched between a hostile Turkey and a hostile Syrian government, with ISIL remnants doing what they can to exploit the chaos, Lund told Al Jazeera. So SDF leaders are trying to preemptively put a new security architecture in place, by asking for some form of autonomy under Syrian government auspices. Possible ISIL resurgence Following the SDFs declaration of the elimination of ISILs self-styled caliphate, which at its peak covered an area across Iraq and Syria roughly equivalent to the size of Britain, a number of international leaders hailed the development but cautioned against remaining dangers. Analysts and locals whether Kurd or Arab echoed the warning, sounding the alarm against losing sight of the threat the group still posed and its potential re-emergence under the right conditions, including taking advantage of regional ethnic rivalries. Lund, of the Century Foundation, noted that ISIL would look for power vacuums and exploit every opportunity to stage a comeback. Meanwhile, Shekaki, the field commander in Baghouz, struck a chord of unity and said ISILs defeat was a victory for all the people in Syria. Its the day when Daesh was defeated by the Kurdish, Arab, and Assyrian brothers. It is a day to bring happiness to all of us, he said. Dr Marc Lamont Hill is an award-winning journalist and author and is the Steve Charles Professor of Media, Cities, and Solutions at Temple University. Hill is known for his work addressing the intersections of race, justice, politics and culture. His latest best-selling book is We Still Here: Pandemics, Policing, Protest and Possibility which follows on the success of Nobody: Casualties of Americas War on the Vulnerable from Flint to Ferguson. Hill has received numerous prestigious awards from the US National Association of Black Journalists, GLAAD, and the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences. In addition to the fact that limousine travel is very glamorous, it is also the most comfortable trip you can... Modi sent wishes on Pakistan day Islamabad and New Delhi on Friday exchanged thoughtful wishes on the eve of the Pakistan Day being celebrated in Pakistan with renewed commitment towards peace and stability in the region. Prime Minister Imran Khan Friday said he has received a message from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in which the latter extended greetings and best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the occasion of the Pakistan Day. It is time that the people of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, Modi said in the message, according to a tweet by Prime Minister Khan. The Indian prime ministers message prompted a quick response from his Pakistani counterpart. I welcome PM Modis message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day, I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people, PM Imran said in a tweet in response to Modis message. The Pakistan Day is observed on March 23 every year to commemorate the passage of Lahore Resolution on this day in 1940 when the Muslims of the sub-continent set the agenda of a separate homeland for themselves. This is another amicable engagement between the two countries since the February 14 Pulwama attack, following which the nuclear-armed neighbours even came to the brink of war. Indian government has decided not to send any official representative to attend the Pakistan Day celebrations scheduled to be held at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi on Saturday (today). According to Indian media reports, the New Delhi has decided not to send its representatives due to Pakistan High Commissions invitation to the Hurriyat Conference leaders in the ceremony. Indian High Commission in Islamabad has announced not to attend the Pakistan Day parade in Islamabad on March 23 (today). Indian defence attache and senior diplomats had last year attended the parade on the invitation of the Pakistani government. I thought we had reached the zenith of liberal language policing. What with the left grousing like henpecking harridans over improper pronouns, gender labels, offensive jokes, stereotypes, sexual preference, and plain old observations, one might be led to believe that every combination of vowels and consonants was already cordoned off with a generous unfurling of police tape. But, one would be wrong to make that assumption. Theres a new patois proscription, and its one that the bleakest of bleak nihilists would endorse, if he or she had such positive feelings to express. Princeton economist Alan Krueger recently committed suicide, shocking his colleagues and fellow economists. (Theres a macabre joke here about his self-slaughter having a negative impact on G.D.P., but Ill save it.) Famous for allegedly debunking the iron law that says minimum wage hikes lead to unemployment, Krueger also did some empirical work on the detrimental effects of occupational licensing. His death, like many suicides, was unexpected. Liberals now object to my description of Kruegers end by his own hand. Its not in any sentiment I suggested, explicit or implied. No, its grammatical. The use of the word committed carries an unfortunate connotation. When Bloomberg reporter Katia Dmitrieva highlighted Kruegers suicide over Twitter, Dylan Matthews of Vox took umbrage with her phrasing. Dmitrieva originally commented, Economist Alan Krueger committed suicide, according to statement from Krueger family. Like a bloodhound trained to sniff out problematic vernacular, Matthews scolded her thusly: [T]his is a small thing but best practices (sic) is to use died by suicide sted (sic) committed, which connotes a crime or wrongdoing and contributes a bit to stigma. Matthews apparently wasnt the only one raising an objection. As is common practice in these overly delicate days, Dmitrieva at once acknowledged her wrongdoing: As many have noted, the correct phrasing when discussing someone killing himself or herself is died by suicide because committed implies a criminal act. First off, the idea that the transitive past-tense verb committed is indicative of crime or wrongdoing is loony projection. You can commit all sorts of things: to marriage, to the military, an act of charity, an act of malice. And dont forget the option of committing someone to the bughouse -- a trip that seems in order for soldiers of the jargon gendarmes. Commit, which comes from the Latin committo, is not within the exclusive province of criminality. Where Matthews came up with such an outre example of cognitive bias probably came from reading his own error-prone site. He might want to commit himself to a remedial English course, preferably one void of Stephen Greenblatts influence. The heart of Matthewss argument is that we should all watch our mouths so as to lessen the stigma of suicide. Im sorry, but why shouldnt there be a stigma on suicide? Shouldnt we want to lessen the act of voluntarily taking ones life? Stigmatizing is just a byword for shaming, and while our culturati fancies itself as down on shaming -- lest we discourage someone from, say, I dont know, committing suicide? -- shouldnt the practice be applied to unnecessary deaths? Suicides dont have to happen. They are a choice. And while the concept of felo de se never made any practical sense other than to charge accomplices, its irresponsible to not discourage self-murder. Supporting the erasure of humanity is, strictly speaking, inhumane. Le Suicide by Edouard Manet That attitude is changing, of course, with Belgium and the Netherlands legalizing the practice of doctor-approved euthanasia. Euthanasia now accounts for 4% of all Dutch deaths. There is even door-to-door suicide machines. In Canada, which legalized euthanasia in 2016, send-off parties are being thrown for the despairing and sick whove decided to shuffle off this mortal coil. In the U.S., seven states have legalized physician-assisted suicide, which differs from euthanasia by having strict requirements for an official prognosis of less than six months to live. Dont think, though, that if the left were to have its way, we wouldnt soon resemble our northern neighbor. The liberal belief in personal autonomy is too strong to deny the de-jure right to off yourself. Euthanasia is seen as a freedom of a piece with abortion and same-sex marriage. There is sympathetic appeal in those suffering extreme, unending pain asking for final relief. But even in those heart-wrenching cases, encouraging suicide sounds like a cruel abandonment, a giving up. Is it really love to surrender someones life to death? And its in loved ones that the issue of suicide really reaches its moral limit. Suicide is a selfish act. That may be a hackneyed thing to say, but its true. Dying deprives those around you of your presence. Children, parents, spouse, friends, coworkers, neighborsthey, too, lose in the end. I just know that suicide is a wicked thing, Michael Brendan Dougherty wrote in reaction to another famous suicide: that of peripatetic gastronome Anthony Bourdain. So it will always be. And the stigma remains deserved. When Democrat senator Kamala Harris announced her run for the presidency, she vowed to be a tireless advocate of men and women who lack power and wealth. But Sen. Harris and her fellow Democrats are obsessed with removing power from We the People. Removing parents' power to raise their children, Democrats implemented mandatory LGBTQ indoctrination in public school. Parents are forbidden to opt out their child. Sen. Harris and her party seek to remove more power from the people by disarming them. Students have been brainwashed into absurdly believing that law-abiding gun-owners are responsible for school shootings. Democrats are pushing to lower the voting age to 16 so kids will naively vote to repeal their parent's Second Amendment right to bear arms. Power to freely worship is under attack by Democrats. They want to ban the Bible, criminalize quoting the Bible, and mandate that Christians betray biblical teachings. Sen. Harris said that she will advocate for those who lack wealth. Between her party's obsession with oppressive taxation and outrageously high death taxes, everyday Americans are blocked from acquiring wealth. A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children. (Proverbs 13:22) Democrats make this biblical principle impossible. Cruelly, they rush to confiscate and redistribute children's inheritances. Children are forced to sell their parent's life's work (home and business) to pay the death taxes. Sen. Harris said, I knew I wanted to protect people. And I knew that the people in our society who are most often targeted by predators are also most often the voiceless and the vulnerable. This exposes Harris' demeaning view of America and Americans. There are no masses of Americans supposedly targeted by predators. This is another Democratic tactic of creating an enemy which does not exist. Former U.S. presidents did not view Americans as weaklings, needing a president to be their parent. President John F. Kennedy believed in the strength and greatness of Americans. He said, Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. When I was a young black man, President Ronald Reagan inspired me to be all I could be; to proudly contribute to the greatness of my country. Harris and her fellow Democratic presidential contenders are campaigning on their standard lowbrow rhetoric, creating victims and bogus enemies. They instill entitlement mindsets, class envy and hatred for the wealthy. Blacks have bought Democrats' garbage for 50 years. Blacks are still suffering in poverty stricken hellholes run by Democrats. When I was a kid living in the East Baltimore projects, Dad drove me through white neighborhoods with beautiful homes. Dad said, If you get an education, you can live like this. He never taught me to hate wealth or white people. Dad did not fill my head with the Democrats' lie that white America was scheming 24/7 to prevent me from achieving my American dream. Democrats' lies about America have crushed far too many black youth's hopes, dreams, and ambitions. In my late 20s, I became a born-gain Christian. Excited, I visited prisons to share the good news of Jesus. To my surprise, most of the inmates were black. Many were gifted and talented. Their major hindrance was negative attitudes, hopelessness, victim and entitlement mindsets. Many thought, Whitey is gonna stop me, so why even try. Who filled these young black mens heads with such destructive nonsense? The answer is Democrats. America is the greatest land of opportunity on the planet for all who choose to pursue their dreams. Period. Tragically, dumbed-down millennials believe it is morally just to punish the rich and redistribute their wealth. A disturbingly high number of millennials embrace socialism. Here's my parable illustrating capitalism v. socialism. Mary and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary over dinner. Our waiter was fantastic, enthusiastically going the extra mile to make our special occasion truly special. I rewarded him with a generous tip. Capitalism allows our waiter to pocket my tip, giving him incentive to increase his wait skills. Socialism would require him to put my tip into a jar to be distributed between all the waiters at the end of the shift. So, slacker waiter Randy who takes excessive smoke breaks, repeatedly monitors his phone, and screws up food orders would get the same amount of tip money as my excellent waiter. This is the demoralizing consequence of socialism. In truth, every Democratic presidential contender wants to remove as much power as possible from We the People. Democratic presidential candidate Cory Booker wants to force Americans to stop eating meat. American families save $2,500 a year shopping at Walmart. Democrat presidential candidate Bernie Sanders wants to stop Americans from shopping and working for Walmart. Democratic presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren has built her campaign on the sin of covetousness (class envy). She seeks to demonize and punish wealth. Every Democratic presidential contender signed on to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Green New Deal, which mandates that in 10 years, we must end air travel, stop using fossil fuels, every new job must be unionized, nuclear plants must be closed, and every building must be rebuilt for state-of-the-art energy efficiency. Sandy O's deal also demands that deadbeats receive government funding. Each Democratic presidential contender emits a foul odor of arrogance and superiority. They believe they are our betters, extremely qualified to dictate how we should think and live our lives. Contrary to Sen. Harris' presidential announcement speech, she and her fellow Democrats seek to remove our power by repealing our constitutional rights and block us from acquiring wealth. We are far better, much smarter, and much stronger than Democratic presidential contenders think we are. We are Americans. Lloyd Marcus, The Unhyphenated American Help Lloyd spread the Truth China has always been big on prestige and ceremony, so the Inter-American Development Bank's cancelation Friday of a major 60th-anniversary conference scheduled to open with lots of razzmatazz in a few days was a pretty significant blow. In Asia, that's known as "losing face." According to Reuters: WASHINGTON (Reuters) The Inter-American Development Bank on Friday called off next week's meeting of its 48 member countries in China after Beijing refused to allow a representative of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido to attend, two sources with knowledge of the decision said. The sources said the decision was made in Washington on Friday at a meeting of the executive board of the IADB, Latin America's largest development lender, after China refused to change its position. What, again, was the stupidity that triggered this event? Denying a visa to respected Harvard economist Ricardo Hausmann, a Venezuelan who was appointed by Venezuela's acting president, Juan Guaido (what's this "opposition leader" crap from Reuters? Guaido is the president, and Nicolas Maduro is the dictator this isn't hard to understand), to represent Venezuela at the multilateral forum. Now, normally, IADB isn't the most exciting forum for anyone to think about, but it's the largest lender of money to the hemisphere, doling out billions in development aid to build highways and bridges and issue loans to small businesses to clean the place up. It does a pretty good job and hasn't been involved in any notable scandals. IADB is run by a board of at least 48 nations that contribute to its large capital base, with the U.S. an important player. In reality, it's basically run by the Colombians, the real good ones who helped make Colombia a desirable country to live in under the presidency of Alvaro Uribe, with respected Colombian diplomat Luis Moreno at the helm. A place like that is real important to China to have a finger in, and so the Chinese joined the multilateral lender, too, shoveling out a $350-million capital donation to get a seat in 2009. Their donation was actually piddly compared to some of the others such as the U.S., which has a 30% shareholding stake. When China joined, it apparently bought into a less- than 1% stake, according to IADB. It was good enough for a board seat, however, and China may have since contributed more. I went to the big 50th IADB anniversary conference in Medellin and enjoyed meeting many of the top IADB officials, who seemed like conservatives to me, as well as members of the Colombian cabinet, and on my own, the biggest captains of Colombia's industries, as a member of the press. IADB featured Bill Clinton as its keynote speaker, and he spoke like the hardest-core anti-drug warrior I've ever heard. (Clinton was actually good.) The IADB anniversary conference was impressive and it's likely that the China-hosted event was to be even more impressive, because China was presenting its heft to a large part of the world that it would like to retain influence in. But somehow, they sure as heck weren't going to issue a visa to Venezuela's Hausmann...and now they've lost the conference. No dancing girls with whirling ribbons. All those catering orders canceled. Rents for rooms lost. What a mess. What it shows is that the nations of the Americas, who dominate that board, are presenting a unified front against the Maduro dictatorship, and either China plays ball or no dancing girls. They mean what they say when they say Guaido is the only legitimate president of Venezuela, which they were one of the first to do back in February. That works, a good bank must be a lender of integrity, and this was the collective decision of the shareholding members. China didn't respect that board consensus, and it had warnings about the potential cancelation of the conference for it, too and the Chinese still didn't issue the visa, apparently calculating that the IADB and U.S. warnings were paper tigers, because nobody'd cancel at this late date, would he? They chose poorly. Now they're trying to paper it over by claiming they had "no responsibility" for the cancelation. Laughable. But it's actually more than just canceling the visa of a placeholder representative. It's Hausmann they wanted to keep out, and that's very, very significant in itself. I mentioned that Hausmann was respectable and prominent, with an extremely sound grasp of economics, and having dealt with him myself, he's also very nice. Hausmann got his name in the news a few years ago because in writing about Venezuela's economic ruin here is his powerful 2014 essay he called on Venezuela to default on its international debts, which, as I recall, moved the markets because, coming from him, it was a bombshell. Here is his opener: The fact that President Nicolas Maduro's administration has chosen to default on 30 million Venezuelans, rather than on Wall Street, is not a sign of its moral rectitude. It is a signal of its moral bankruptcy. Hausmann's reasoning was absolutely sound, too by defaulting, the country would effectively be declaring bankruptcy (which of course it is) and be able to use whatever money it was taking in to feed its people. It's nasty-sounding as a solution, and we all know how sovereign defaults went over in places such as Argentina and Ecuador, but it made no sense for Venezuela to be paying off all its international lenders while its people at home were starving . He was perfectly right. China is one of those nations on the bondholder and loan side. Hausmann has effectively advocated stiffing it. And that loan strategy, to get these Latin socialist states on the hook so that they can never dig out, is a key element of China's strategy on Latin America. I blogged about that here, here, here, and here. Hausmann on the board of IADB is an important choice, because he's a signal indicator that Venezuela is going to be looking at Venezuela's interests before taking out any multilateral loans, at a minimum, to ensure that the locals won't be starving as the loans are paid back. IADB thought it better to have this guy in than out, and it shows they are all on the same page. But from IADB's perspective as a bank, it was also stupid of China to deny this guy a visa. Venezuela represents big business for the Chinese to start planning for, given that (to paraphrase economist Herb Stein) anything that can't go on won't. China attempting to shut Hausmann out (they also offered to deny Maduro's man a visa to "depoliticize" the conference) was bad for IADB business, given that Venezuela may well become their biggest customer. Bad business choice, China. If China can't go along with the consensus at IADB, quite hypocritically, by the way, given its claims to fealty to the consensus in international forums, then sending it a message through the canceled conference is the right way to teach a lesson. It also raises the question of why the heck it's on the board there anyway. It can't go along with the consensus, and it's getting these countries in hock to the point that they can't dig out, something that makes the Chinese a malevolent competitor to the IADB mission. If anything, IADB was being mild and gentle in canceling the conference. It actually should kick China out. Refund the Chinese their money and send them on their way. In denying Hausmann a visa, they've shown they can't play nice. And after that, point at them. Nothing like some loss of face for an obnoxious Asian giant. Image credit: World Economic Forum via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. Now that the news is out that there will be no indictments at all related to the actual mission of the Mueller special counsel appointment, those of us who criticized him (including President Trump) are being told we should suddenly reverse ourselves and praise him as a man of integrity. Some even ask whether we owe him an apology. Robert Mueller visits Barack Obama and Joe Biden in the Oval Office, July 20, 2012. Official White House photo by Pete Souza. Jonah Goldberg, one of the smartest NeverTrumps, tweeted out, even before the Mueller Report was delivered, an ironic speculation that the Left would turn on Mueller, while the right would suddenly discover his many virtues: So, if Mueller in effect clears Trump, I expect to see a lot of folks who insisted Mueller was a dirty cop, deep state, witch hunter to suddenly discover Muellers integrity. And a lot of folks who insisted Mueller was the Last Honest Man to vilify him as a cover up artist. Jonah Goldberg (@JonahNRO) March 22, 2019 I don't think so. The Left will not turn on him because he has made criminal referrals to the Southern District of New York, upon which the Left now pins its hopes. They also hope for the Report to indicate some dirt on Trump for which he cannot be indicted while in office, but which he may have to face after he leaves the presidency. And as for conservative critics of Mueller, I will speak for myself. First of all, he should never have hired Andrew Weissmann to be his lead investigator, who, it has been suggested by many, was the actual boss of the investigation, as Mueller withdrew from active, day-to-day management. Weissmann had disgraced himself in the prosecution of Arthur Anderson's work for Enron, where the guilty verdicts were thrown out by the Supreme Court, after that firm had been utterly destroyed, costing thousands of people their jobs and the partners their fortunes. Second, the prosecutors included no Republican donors but many Hillary donors, and the team initially included Peter Strzok and Lisa Page, whose fanatic hatred for Trump, disdain for his supporters, and determination to act as an "insurance policy" in case he was elected, should have disqualified them. A prosecutor interested in the truth should not assemble such a lopsided crew of fanatics. Third, once it became clear that the Steele dossier the very basis for the appointment of Mueller was a Hillary-generated oppo research fantasy, Mueller should have announced that he would not pursue what the law calls the "fruit of a poisonous tree," resigned, and disbanded his investigation. Fourth, so far as we know, though I would be delighted to learn otherwise when the Report is released, Mueller pursued no investigation of Democrats and Hillary for colluding with Russia. We know that after laundering their money through the law firm of Perkins Coie and Fusion GPS, a foreign intelligence agent named Christopher Steele was employed by the Hillary campaign and DNC to collude with Russian intelligence sources and influence our election. So far as we know, Mueller was not told to investigate only Republicans. Fifth, the aggressive prosecutors ruined many innocent lives with the costs of lawyers, including the destruction of professional careers. We now know that an abusive threat to prosecute him was made against author Jerome Corsi unless he signed a "confession" he claims was untrue. Special counsel Robert Mueller's team offered Corsi a proposed plea agreement, which would have required him to admit to one criminal charge with two components: lying to investigators and obstruction of justice before congressional or grand jury proceedings. Corsi refused to sign the plea deal. He then released drafts of his plea agreement and indictment, went on a media tour slamming Mueller's team, and published a book detailing his experiences with the special counsel. In the end, Mueller concluded his investigation without ever bringing charges against Corsi. On Friday, Corsi accused Mueller's team of trying to push him to plead guilty to a crime he didn't commit. "I went in there to cooperate with them. They treated me as a criminal," Corsi said. "I consider this entire investigation to be fraudulent," he said. "I'm glad it's over." Because Corsi was never prosecuted, we know that this was a false threat, that there was no substantial case. Had Dr. Corsi (he is a Harvard Ph.D. in history) possessed fewer resources (including especially guts), he might well have lied and given the false evidence demanded in order to spare himself the ordeal of prosecution before a District of Columbia jury composed overwhelmingly of Hillary voters, cognizant that federal prosecutors obtain guilty verdicts about 98% of the time. I do commend Robert Mueller and his team for not faking enough evidence to obtain a phony indictment, but I still hold them responsible for the five types of abuses I just outlined. Several Hollywood celebrities are pushing New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to eliminate the wage difference between hourly employees and tipped workers like waitresses and bartenders. Sarah Jessica Parker, Michelle Williams, Amy Poehler and Amy Schumer are among the more prominent actresses pushing the proposal. But, not suprisingly the waitresses have written a letter to the celebrities, telling them "no thanks." New York Times: Waitresses and other servers are resisting the proposal, saying they can make more money from tips and do not need celebrities to help protect them from harassment. Harassment is a real concern, they say, but so is the need to earn a living. The resounding message from servers in New York to these actresses in Hollywood is to just leave us alone, said Maggie Raczynski, a bartender at an Outback Steakhouse in upstate New York. These celebrities have literally no idea. I feel like they need to butt out. The state Department of Labor has held hearings around the state for the last year, but Cuomo is reluctant to pull the trigger and support the legislation that would eliminate the different minimum wage for tipped employees. There's a very good reason why waitresses and others want Hollywood and the state government to butt out: In New York City, many servers at busy restaurants and bars earn more than enough in tips to push their hourly wage well above the $15 minimum. The best-paid people in the restaurant are the servers and the bartenders, said Jeremy Merrin, the owner of four Havana Central restaurants, including one in Times Square. My servers make well in excess of $20 an hour. Tending tables or mixing drinks has traditionally been a reliable means of survival for aspiring actors and actresses or a steady way to pay the bills between gigs. Raising wages for tipped workers, many waitresses say, could threaten an economic lifesaver if it forces restaurants to change tipping policies or, worse, puts them out of business. Maybe if the celebrities, who make millions of dollars a year, would be more generous to their waitresses when they go out to eat, there wouldn't be this kind of resentment: Ms. Raczynski said she was angered by a letter sent to Mr. Cuomo by Hollywood celebrities including Ms. Poehler, Reese Witherspoon and Natalie Portman. The actresses urged the governor to eliminate the lower minimum wage for servers because they said it created a work environment where customers feel entitled to abuse women in exchange for service. The servers fired back in a letter to the actresses, saying, Thank you for your concern. But we dont need your help and were not asking to be saved. Most restaurants I've worked in - and there have been a few - employed waitresses who were perfectly capable of handling the odd piggish man who would make leering suggestions of what she had to do for a good tip. The best waitresses are unobtrusive, efficient, and get everybody's order right the first time. Even skinflints who only leave a 10% tip augment a server's income beyond whatever phony minimum wage liberals decree. I like the attitude of the waitresses toward the celebrities; "we don't need your help." Rep. Adam Schiff, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee said about a month ago the "evidence" of Trump collusion with Russia was "in plain sight. Politico: "Chairman Burr must have a different word for it," Schiff told host Dana Bash on "State of the Union," pointing to communications between Russia and Donald Trump Jr. and former Trump aides George Papadopoulos and Michael Flynn. "You can see evidence in plain sight on the issue of collusion, pretty compelling evidence," Schiff said, adding, "There is a difference between seeing evidence of collusion and being able to prove a criminal conspiracy beyond a reasonable doubt." If there's "evidence in plain sight" for Russian collusion, then Mueller is either blind or in cahoots with Trump, because the special counsel isn't indicting anyone else. But Schiff is nothing if not tenacious. He is vowing to continue the investigation. "We will find the truth," he told Wolf Blitzer of CNN. Today, Schiff and numerous other politicians, pundits, and various left-wing loons are still digging through that manure pile looking for the pony they are certain is there. It's sort of like Bullwinkle pulling a rabbit out of his hat ("Nuthin up my sleeve...presto!") "Wrong hat," Adam. The news that Morris Dees was kicked out of the organization he founded, the Southern Poverty Law Center, sent shockwaves out among leftists, including the many news outlets that accept without question its verdicts that conservatives are "hate groups." Major donors, like Google, were put on notice that they may have been misguided. It turns out that those shockwaves have toppled more careers of big shots at the SPLC. The Montgomery Advertiser reports: Southern Poverty Law Center President Richard Cohen said in a statement Friday he has asked the board of the troubled organization to "to immediately launch a search for an interim president in order to give the organization the best chance to heal," and took responsibility for problems that have swept out the senior leadership of the group in just a week. Cohen, who has worked at the SPLC since 1986 and served as president since 2003, said in the statement that "we'll emerge stronger" after an audit of the organization's practices by Tina Tchen, a former White House official and Chicago-based lawyer. "Given my long tenure as the SPLC president, however, I do not think I should be involved in that process beyond cooperating with Tina, her team, and the board in any way that may be helpful," the statement said. "Whatever problems exist at the SPLC happened on my watch, so I take responsibility for them." When reached for comment on Friday evening, an SPLC spokesperson said the center cannot comment on the specifics of individual personnel decisions. Ms. Tchen, a former member of Michelle Obama's staff, is not someone you would go to for a complete airing of evidence. She has a scandal of her own back home in Chicago, attempting to get the Chicago Police Department pulled off the Jussie Smollett case at the behest of his family. As the U.K. Daily Mail reports: [Jussie] Smollett won an outpouring of sympathy and the Chicago Police Department said it was working vigorously to find who attacked him. But behind the scenes, his family had enlisted lawyer Tina Tchen. They were 'concerned' about details of the incident and Smollett's reports to investigators being leaked and said that they wanted the FBI to handle the case. Tchen, who serves as Michelle Obama's Chief of Staff, contacted [state's attorney Kim] Foxx. 'I wanted to give you a call on behalf of Jussie Smollett and family who I know. They have concerns about the investigation,' she said in her first text which was obtained by The Chicago Sun Tribune. Hours later, Foxx received a text from one of Smollett's relatives. Over the course of the next two weeks, she tried to have the case handed over to the FBI. 'Spoke to the superintendent earlier. He is going to make the ask. Trying to figure out logistics. I'll keep you posted,' she said in a February 13 text. By then, there had been questions surrounding Smollett's cooperation with the investigation but Smollett was, officially, still being treated as a victim. The relative responded: 'OMG this would be a huge victory.' Foxx replied: 'I make no guarantees but I'm trying.' Later that day, she emailed Tchen saying: 'Spoke to the Superintendent Johnson. I convinced him to reach out to FBI to ask that they take over the investigation. He is reaching out now and will get to me shortly.' Tchen was unsuccessful, and as result, the CPD charged Smollett, denying the family the "huge victory" they hoped for. But even with a Democrat fixer in charge of the internal SPLC investigation, senior staff are bailing out. The Advertiser reports: On Thursday, Rhonda Brownstein, SPLC legal director and a member of its senior leadership staff, also resigned, a source familiar with the matter confirmed to the Advertiser. The Montgomery Advertiser, the hometown paper of the city where the Southern Poverty Law Center is headquartered, should (but probably won't for ideological reasons) get a Pulitzer Prize for leading the entire nation in reporting on the scandals at the SPLC. Taking on a rich (almost half a billion dollars in endowment) organization that employs litigious attorneys by the score takes courage. The SPLC occupies what I am told is the most lavish private building in Montgomery, reflective of its vast power in the community. It is more than fair from now on to precede every newspaper reference to the SPLC with the modifier "scandal-ridden." While other companies are rapidly shifting gears to promote cloud-based gaming experiences, ARCHOS has now revealed a device that goes decidedly against that grain and focuses on local gameplay in a digital form via the ARCHOS Play Tab. As its name suggests, the new device is a tablet but at 21.5-inches and with a goal to reunite users over more traditional family game night-style titles, this budget gadget is very different from most other offerings available. ARCHOS says its new tablet is specifically intended for users to gather around over classic board games. It packs in all of the features one might expect from a tablet, including Android 9 Pie and a high-capacity battery, in addition to full support for 3D, AR, and AI-enabled apps. It also comes packed with plenty to do while everybodys hanging out thanks to the 3.5-million apps, games, movies, music, and books available via the Google Play Store. While the gadget certainly appears thicker than most on the market, its also designed to withstand a bit more abuse, keeping it relatively safe from harm. Advertisement Known specs ARCHOS hasnt given away all of the details regarding the specifications of its latest tablet but the details provided so far indicate the Play Tab is well-prepared to handle just about anything users want to throw at it. Driven by a 5,000 mAh capacity battery, the tablet is powered by a high performance but unspecified octa-core chipset backed up by a healthy, but not spectacular, 3GB of memory and 32GB of onboard storage. Its 21.5-inch display is set at a full HD resolution that should hit something of a sweet spot for the ARCHOS Play Tabs underlying purpose. The tempered glass front panel is also comparatively hefty at 6mm while splash and shock resistance is part of the overall design. Advertisement For software, ARCHOS is heavily focused on making localized gameplay enjoyable with over 1,000 titles embedded from the start, across several categories ranging from strategy to educational, complete with animated rulebooks and tutorials. Those games can be started or stopped as needed and theres a dedicated interface in place to make the play as straightforward as possible. The company specifically lists Carcassonne, Gloomheaven, Monopoly, Pandemic, Scrabble, Settlers of Catan, The Room, Ticket to Ride, and Uno as some of the freemium titles consumers can expect to find. Of course, since this is a dedicated, board-game-focused tablet, there dont appear to be any cameras or other hardware of the sort to speak of. Advertisement Availability and pricing Pricing for the new ARCHOS tablet follows in line with other offerings the manufacturer has released over the past several months, landing neatly just above the budget end of the spectrum. The tablet is expected to cost just 249 approximately $280. The company says it will release the ARCHOS Play Tab in Europe just in time for Back to School 2019. That should place the arrival of the tablet at right around early September. As of this writing, the company hasnt expressly provided details regarding whether or not no word the ARCHOS Play Tab will launch in any other regions. Nation to celebrate Pakistan Day today The nation is to celebrate Pakistan Day on Saturday (today) with traditional zeal and a renewed commitment to work hard for the progress and prosperity of the motherland. The day is observed on March 23 every year to commemorate the passage of Lahore Resolution on this day in 1940 when the Muslims of the sub-continent set the agenda of a separate homeland for themselves. The day dawn with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in the provincial capitals. Special prayers offered in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country. National flag hoisted on all major government buildings. The main feature of the day is the grand military parade in Islamabad where contingents of the three armed forces and the security forces conducted march past. Various jets belonging to Army Aviation and Pakistan Air Force demonstrated aerobatic feats for the audience. Similarly, combat and attack helicopters as well as skydivers of airborne units from the three armed forces also showcase their skills. The parade also showcased cultures of all the four provinces. Cultural delegates and floats from Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir featured during the ceremony. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad was the guest of honour at the parade. President Dr Arif Alvi, Prime Minister Imran Khan, ministers, members of the parliament, the three services chiefs and diplomats also witnessed the parade. Defence Minister of Azerbaijan, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Bahrain and government officials from Oman also attended the ceremony. Various contingents from Azerbaijan, Bahrain, China, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Turkey participated in the parade. An investiture ceremony will also be held at Aiwan-e-Sadr in the evening where the president will confer civil awards on individuals demonstrating feats in different fields of science and arts. One hundred and seventy-one personalities, including some foreigners, have been selected for this years awards. Pakistani missions abroad as well different organizations and societies will also arrange functions and ceremonies to commemorate the day to inculcate a spirit for the progress, prosperity and defence of the country. Radio Pakistan, Pakistan Television as well as private TV channels will air special programmes to highlight the struggle of the forefathers for a separate homeland as well as the importance of the day. Marysville, CA (95901) Today Showers this evening, becoming a steady rain overnight. Low 46F. Winds SE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.. Tonight Showers this evening, becoming a steady rain overnight. Low 46F. Winds SE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. Rising trend of Islamophobia is serious phenomenon: Shah Mahmood Quershi OIC 23 March, 2019 Related News Imran Khan distributed loan cheques under Kamyab Jawan Programme PTI govt to face all challenges coming its way: Imran khan More on this View All Top 2021 Accessories We Know You Will Love Types of Casino Payment Methods Tips for Taking Incredible iPhone Travel Photos Are Slot Developers Important for players? Best Poker Hands ever played on a Casino Hand Wash and Toiletries in Pakistan And the Role of DUPAS in Reshaping the Industry Woke Bingo Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi Friday said that rising trend of Islamophobia was a serious phenomenon which did not happen overnight, as he outlines a comprehensive global strategy to tackle the issue at an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperations Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul. The meeting was called to discuss the causes, impacts and way forward in the aftermath of the New Zealand terror attacks targeting two mosques in Christchurch, in which 50 Muslims, including nine Pakistanis, were killed by a white supremacist during Friday prayers last week. Foreign ministers from over 20 countries participated in the meeting, alongside representatives from international organisations, including the United Nations and the European Union and Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. New Zealands Foreign Minister Winston Peters also attended the session. Talking to reporters following the conclusion of the session, Qureshi announced that a joint communique by all the members had been issued which contains six proposals four of whom were put forth by Pakistan. All four of our proposals received uniform acceptance and I would like to put these forward before you, he said. The first proposal is that the scope and definition of terrorism be broadened. And the imposition of sanctions should not be limited to entities such as Al Qaeda, Daesh, etc though those are important in their own right but those elements which reek of Islamophobia should also be included in the list of those sanctioned, he said. Our second proposal which came under discussion and was then accepted is that a special session of the United Nations General Assembly be held on the topic of Islamophobia, he added. The third proposal we put forth is that the OIC secretary general should play a role in the removal of content on social media that is linked to Islamophobia and should devise a strategy to deal with how it incites hatred and how it can be tackled immediately because such content is leading to extremism taking root, he continued. The fourth thing that was proposed is that a special rapporteur be appointed who monitors Islamophobia and presents recommendations on how to counter it, he added. Earlier in his speech at the session, Foreign Minister Qureshi said the Christchurch attack has shed light on a number of alarming trends ? the mainstreaming of anti-Muslim sentiment by the rise of populist politics in many western countries; the undermining of a culture of respect and tolerance through narratives of exclusion and bigotry, and the implementation of anti-immigration policies by some in the west. He reminded the attendees that the attack is not an isolated act of a lone maniac. What happened in New Zealand is a grim reminder of the tide of Islamophobia sweeping the world. Every bullet fired by the terrorist was an assault on the values of pluralism and diversity that underpin modern multicultural societies, he stated. Qureshi explained that the acts are not restricted to western countries alone. Pakistans eastern neighbour, a self-professed friend to many of those sitting around the table, prides itself in its democratic and secular credentials. In practice, it is anything, he lamented, and discussed a systemic discrimination and the social, political and economic marginalisation and humiliation of the Muslims in India at the hands of Hindutva brigades. Mob lynching of Muslims in the name of cow protection and attempts at Muslims forced conversions are commonplace, as indeed is violence against other minorities including Sikhs, Christians and Dalits, he said. In Indian-held Kashmir, extra-judicial killings, staged encounters, sexual harassment and use of pellet guns against unarmed protesters are a norm. Recently, an Indian court exonerated Hindu terrorists who had confessed to killing 68 people, mostly Muslims ? including 44 Pakistanis ? on a train in India, he said. There exists no United Nations architecture that can proscribe such individuals or address terrorism posed by Hindutva ideologues or white supremacists, he pointed out. Championing strengthening of international obligations enunciated in existing UNGA and OIC resolutions on religious intolerance. This includes calling for a plenary meeting of the UNGA to seek, among other things, a comprehensive regime outlawing Islamophobia Supporting the UN secretary generals plans to develop a system-wide plan of action against hate speech and crimes Proposing a comprehensive overhaul of the UN counter-terrorism listings framework that goes beyond al Qaeda to include terrorists of all colours. Creating a united front against Islamophobia by engaging not just governments but also civil societies, religious and community leaders, academia and the public at large, and countering alternate facts by presenting real facts and creating support within western societies. Strengthening collaborative partnerships with social media platforms to prevent dissemination of anti-Islam content. Strengthening OICs own regimes to monitor and counter anti-Islam, anti-Muslim propaganda. Institutionalising mechanisms within OIC to report and safeguard rights of Muslim minorities. CEOs Share Their Advice on How to Get Promoted Get That Promotion ASAP With These Tips From CEOs The writing isnt on the wall, but on the signature in the right-hand corner of your paycheck every two weeks. We all want more zeros in our salaries and more benefits and perks from our employers, but the path to get there isnt always perfectly paved. As Adam Fields, CEO of ARTA, explains, being promoted is a two-way street requiring two key players: employee and manager. While your managers are tasked with providing you a reasonable timeline for upward mobility and tracking your progress, the ball is in your court to hustle and ask for not only what you want, but can prove you deserve. RELATED: How to Ask for a Raise (And Actually Get It) Employees must be prepared to take advantage of the opportunities that align with their pathway to promotion, Fields says. Its important to remember that employers and managers prefer to promote from within as it validates their hiring efforts, extends an employees lifeline within the company, provides further incentive for others, and optimizes internal resources and focus. If you want to streamline your strategy to solidify your spot in your company and bring in thicker bacon, its best to take advice from those at the top. And by the top, we mean CEOs who have not only put in their time but have also made mistakes and learned from them. Here, they share their insight on getting ahead in the workplace and landing that promotion. GettyImages Its one thing to double your numbers in one magical quarter, and an entirely different feat to do it every single season like clockwork. Even if you arent exceeding expectations, remaining consistently strong in your position will make you memorable during review season. After all, in a moment of reflection of your life and happiness, what comes to mind first? People who make everything easier and rosier, right? Leo Kremer, CEO of Dos Toros, explains that its the dependable employees who tend to rise above the rest. A lot of people can do a great job for a couple weeks or a couple months, but its important to see steady, strong work for six months to a year before we are ready to discuss the promotion process, he explains. There are no shortcuts to demonstrating consistent excellence except to show up every day and own it. GettyImages Ever been on a date with someone who looked or acted miserable? No energy, no zingy banter, just a dull, overpriced cocktail and sour company? Though no one can be on 100 percent, 24/7, if you really want to excel in your career, expressing how much you love what you do with thoughtful enthusiasm will earn you gold stars, according to Victor Mohan, CEO of Mohans Custom Tailors. By coming in to work and showing that love through hard work and consistency, you will excel. When working directly with customers, you must be able to connect with them. Through your knowledge and love for the job, the customer will leave fulfilled and is more likely to return, he explains. We look for employees who show passion on the daily. On days where you feel truly off, and your charisma cant hide your lack of A-game, its smarter to take a longer break than show your lack of engagement or negativity in the office. Unfortunately, people are more likely to remember the off-the-cuff remark than your usual charm. RELATED: Best Productivity Books GettyImages One surefire way to cement your position in the company is to work so tirelessly and interweave yourself so thoroughly across teams that you become indispensable. As Fields explains, ultimately the gesture of a promotion is often made when an employee has executed their goals, demonstrated initiative, and gone above and beyond. He notes this not only makes the professional better, but also their manager, their team and the company as a whole. [This makes] the employee a more vital part of the organization. When an employee becomes indispensable to a company, managers need to recognize that effort through a promotion, he adds. Promotions drive employees, teams, and companies forward, so it truly pays for all parties to focus on them as part of building and scaling a career, and a business, he adds. GettyImages If youre part of a start-up that hasnt really thought about tracking progress quite yet, take it as your opportunity to create a timeline. Or, if your company does have success measures in place, make sure you agree on the benchmarks so you can make progress, suggests Jared Pobre, co-founder and CEO of Calder Lab. If you want to grow with the company you'll need to talk the talk and walk the walk: Be collaborative, communicative, and a team player. Your seniors will appreciate the ease of working with you just as much as your hard work, he explains. As with anything career-oriented or important, get your goals on paper so you can illustrate during review season the progress youve made, and how you set out to do what you intended. The paper trail wont lie, and any numbers to prove your growth make helps make the case, he adds. GettyImages Flying first class nonstop to Miami to entertain clients and stay in a five-star room on the companys dime? Sure thing! Digging through two years of financial reports to seek out an error? Meh, not so fun. But being willing to get your hands dirty, put in the overtime, and exhaust every effort to execute the unpleasant or tough parts of job make you outshine anyone else you work with, according to Kremer. If you really want to know how to get promoted, step outside of your official job description and do it with a killer attitude. The extra effort into volunteering makes a great impression and shows that you aren't hung up on your own ego, and that you will do whatever you can to help support the team, whether or not it's your job, he adds. GettyImages Sure, someone who agrees with everything you say, think, and do is nice at the beginning. But over time, never being challenged to think differently or never presenting alternative ideas or solutions can make you forgettable. On the other hand, Mohan explains that those worker bees who arent afraid to voice and share their opinion within reason, of course are the ones that executives notice. Especially when their new way of thinking or strategizing means success for the team or the company as a whole. Becoming a yes-man will never allow your employer to see your true potential, he points out. You werent hired to just go through the motions, so use the passion you have for what you do and speak up. RELATED: Dating Strategies to Apply to Your Job Search GettyImages How many people are you friendly with outside of your section of the workplace? Do you take the extra few steps to say hi to the receptionist? Are you willing to step away from your computer and gasp! actually go have a conversation in person to avoid conflict? The value of networking, in and out of your office, is always underestimated, according to Pobre. Networking is about sharing ideas, support, opportunities, and perspectives. It will also build your confidence and knowledge, and in turn make you more valuable, he explains. You never know when your connections will play a role in your life down the road. GettyImages There are plenty of three-word combinations that pack a big punch, but these from senior partner Marc Anidjar really sting. How to get promoted? Ask for it. Many times you might be doing great work, but it does not necessarily mean that the higher-ups see all of your achievements, he says. Ask for a promotion and back that ask up with quantifiable ways you have excelled: i.e., made the company money, helped identify a problem that you solved, or provided service in a manner that made the company look good, Anidjar advises. He explains this will show that not only are you a great employee, but that your care and know your worth. From being consistent to humbly taking on the dirty work, keep these expert tips in mind as you pave that path to your promotion. You can do it! You Might Also Dig: Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Hi - my experience with the immigration re: tourist visas is that even if they are 'supposed' to have all the ravel info on an australian tourist, I don't think they actually bother looking. Recently, my sister-in-law's tourist visa was rejected for not complying with being a "genuine tourist" when she has been travelling here since 2006 and has NEVER broken any of her visa conditions. I re-applied within 3 days, but this time addressed the ground for visa rejection. I think it was question 18 on the online form. I documented all her travels in a Word document, tabulated with date of visa approval, entry and exit dates on passports, travelling alone or solo. Within the week, we got a visa. If I were you, always re-submit all necessary documents. Do not assume they look at previous files/records because honestly, I do not believe they do! And it is also a case of lottery .... you get some good and sympathetic case officers. And sad to say..some who really do not care less. All the best. Take a good look at the rendering above. By now, anybody with a passion for cars and an Internet connection has seen plenty of such pixel plays, which come to challenge conventions and offend purists. However, the image sitting before us is different, simply because this is bound to become a real car.The render comes from Yasid Oozeear, an aficionado who likes to sketch such toys for the fun of it. No automotive icon is safe from this gear head's pixel wielding, not even the Porsche 911.However, the digital artist has joined forces with Alexandre Danton, who owns a small French chop shop. Dubbed Danton Arts Kustoms, the label is responsible for rat rods based on cars that normally spend their time in collectors' garages.You know, stuff like an air-cooled Neunelfer or a Lamborghini Espada (you can check out the tales behind the links to see the two converted into rat rods and roaming the streets of the world).Returning to the 997-generation Porscha we have here, this started out in life as a ".2" (think: mid-cycle revamp) Carrera 4S Cabriolet. However, now that the said French label has gotten its hands on the vehicle (things have happened ), it will end up resembling the virtual contraption portrayed here.In fact, we're inviting you to use the swipe feature of the Instagram post below, which allows one to check out this digital proposal from all angles.Of course, such a project will split opinions like few others and we're not just talking about Porschephiles here. However, whether you find yourself among those who would rather see the 911 remaining stock, or belong to the camp that adores such builds, there's one thing you need to admit - such a contraption can't be ignored.We'll keep an eye on this Franken-Porsche and return with updates as soon as the promised HEMI lands in the frunk of the car. Six ppl died in IHK by Indian forces A 12-year-old boy was among six people killed in three separate gun battles between freedom fighters and security forces in Indian-held Kashmir, the police and army said Friday. Clashes have raged in the restive mountainous region since the deaths of 40 Indian troops in a suicide bombing last month provoked tit-for-tat air strikes between India and Pakistan. The boy was killed after the fighters were trapped in his home in the northern town of Hajin and engaged in a two-day gun battle ending Friday, police said. His father escaped. Police later claimed the boy was kept hostage by the fighters. Despite repeated requests by community members and police for his release, he was brutally killed by them, a police statement said. Two more were eliminated late Thursday in the frontier district of Baramulla, army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said, while one soldier and two policemen were injured. Another fighter died in a clash with soldiers in the south of the Kashmir valley, Kalia added. At least a dozen villagers were wounded when government forces clashed with protestors near the site of the fighting, firing metal pellets and live bullets to push them back. Three of the villagers were taken to hospital in Srinagar and were in critical condition, a local police officer and hospital sources said. Entire neighbourhoods in Kashmir often march towards sites of gun battles between freedom fighters and government forces, attempting to rescue them. Scores of civilians have died during such clashes. India has about 500,000 soldiers in the part it occupuied, where freedom fighters are fighting for independence or a merger with Pakistan. The death in police custody Tuesday of teacher Rizwan Asad Pandit one of around 1,000 people detained in recent weeks has further enraged the locals. Pandits family claimed the young man was tortured, saying his bones and even his spine were broken and that his body bore cuts and clear signs of torture. SUV MQB TDI HP The milestone vehicle was made at the Kvasiny factory in the Czech Republic. However, the same car is also put together in Aurangabad (India), Nanjing (China), Ust-Kamenogorsk (Kazakhstan) and Solomonovo (Ukraine).Skoda claims that this production is due to the Superb being one of the most popular cars in the European midsize segment. But we don't think it's that simple. Looking at an infographic, they released, the Superb is only the fifth most popular car, only ahead of the Citigo and the Karoq, which didn't have a full year of sales in 2018.Also, China is by far the biggest single market, sucking up about a quarter of all the world's Skodas. They also have about as many customers in Russia as in the UK or the Czech Republic.Skoda likes to time these milestone announcements, so we expect the Superb mid-life facelift to be revealed within a month. It's also going to be their first-ever plug-in model. The first VW-based Superb came out in 2001, and during that time, they've sold about 1,250,000 sedans and wagons.The Superb is one of the biggest cars based on theplatform, which a wheelbase measuring 2,841 mm. Currently, you can buy it with a 150 horsepower versions of the 1.5 TSI and 2.0, as well as a 1902.0 TDI. The most potent model has 272 HP from a 2-liter turbo.Michael Oeljeklaus, Skoda Board Member for Production and Logistics, had this to say about the milestone: Today, we have half a million reasons to be proud. The production milestone is great evidence of the Skoda Superbs continued popularity. With its design and technological qualities as well as the unbeatable amount of interior space, we have been substantiating the brands aspiration in the mid-size car segment for four years. The Superb which is now produced at five different factories ranks among the best and most successful mid-size cars, and the brand owes a large proportion of its growth to it. Satellite image 2019 Maxar Technologies The aftermath of Cyclone Idai in southern Africa has left hundreds of homes and buildings with serious structural devastation and flooded streets. DigitalGlobes WorldView-3 satellite collected imagery on Friday of Beira, Mozambique, reveals the extent of the destruction. Details: This weekend, charity confederation Oxfam intends to start distributing aid, including water purification tabs and hygiene kits, as hundreds of thousands of survivors in Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe run the risk of waterborne illness including cholera and diarrhea. Teams with Doctors Without Borders (MSF) are also responding to the damage with medical supplies, water and sanitation support. What's happening: Per an Oxfam press release and other new reports... Oxfam aid worker Takaindisa Sanangurai said, Ninety percent of Beira is still under water and it is difficult to contain the problem. The death toll has climbed to 417, and the situation remains critical as heavy rain continues. If things do not change we shall all perish. No one will be left behind, a woman told Oxfam. The destruction in photos, all from DigitalGlobe: What's next: Over the next 3 months, Oxfam and partners will truck in clean water and distribute water treatment and hygiene kits that contain items such as buckets, soaps, jerry cans and menstrual hygiene kits. Editor's note: This piece has been clarified to show Doctors without Borders is the same as Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) and not a separate entity. Following 2 similar crashes of Boeing 737 MAX 8 planes that killed a total of 346 people, the aircraft have been grounded worldwide as a series of investigations look into what caused the crashes and any potential flaws that went unnoticed during the safety certification process. Context: The FAA's approval process was designed to be seamless in that airlines that already flew other versions of the best-selling 737 series were able to treat the MAX as another in the series. This limited the training requirements for 737 MAX pilots and kept customer costs down. However, in reality, the plane had many new pieces of hardware, including more powerful engines, a redesigned tail, new wing design and, crucially, new software. Key players Federal Aviation Administration: Responsible for certifying new planes and has faced criticism for not grounding the Boeing 737 MAX jets faster. The organization is also also under scrutiny for delegating certification activities to Boeing. Responsible for certifying new planes and has faced criticism for not grounding the Boeing 737 MAX jets faster. The organization is also also under scrutiny for delegating certification activities to Boeing. Boeing: Manufactures the 737 MAX series and is currently being investigated by the House, Senate, Transportation Department's Inspector General, Justice Department and FBI on how the 737 MAX was certified as safe to fly in 2017 and judged safe enough to continue to fly after October's Lion Air crash in Indonesia. Manufactures the 737 MAX series and is currently being investigated by the House, Senate, Transportation Department's Inspector General, Justice Department and FBI on how the 737 MAX was certified as safe to fly in 2017 and judged safe enough to continue to fly after October's Lion Air crash in Indonesia. The plane has racked up more than 5,000 orders to become the best-selling aircraft in Boeing history. American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines: U.S. airlines that fly the 737 MAX. U.S. airlines that fly the 737 MAX. Airbus: Boeing's archrival in the aircraft business, which makes the Airbus A320neo, the competitor to the 737 MAX. News reports have indicated that the FAA and Boeing employees felt pressured to quickly approve the 737 MAX to keep pace with Airbus' development. Key terms Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS): An automated system Boeing installed to prevent the aircraft from stalling (losing lift) by pushing the plane's nose down. A malfunction with this system, where it appeared to activate based on faulty readings from a flight sensor, is the suspected cause of both crashes. An automated system Boeing installed to prevent the aircraft from stalling (losing lift) by pushing the plane's nose down. A malfunction with this system, where it appeared to activate based on faulty readings from a flight sensor, is the suspected cause of both crashes. According to the New York Times, many 737 pilots were not required to undergo intensive training in flight simulators instead doing so on iPads. Until the Lion Air crash, many 737 MAX pilots were unaware the MCAS system existed. Key events What's next: We still don't know what caused the two crashes, if the Boeing 737 MAX is safe and how the certification process may have led to a potentially flawed aircraft being released. Boeing is working on software fixes to improve the MCAS system, but it's unclear when regulators in the U.S. and abroad may clear the plane for takeoff again. Boeing is in uncharted territory when it comes to modern aviation history: Not since the De Havilland Comet in the 1950s has a brand-new aircraft suffered such a spate of fatal incidents. Go deeper: What we've learned from the Boeing 737 MAX crashes For six years, the U.S. and Europe have been fixated on Russia as their gravest geopolitical threat all while China has been building up its massive global infrastructure project known as One Belt, One Road. Now, Beijing and its commercial aims seem much more of a menace. Driving the news: China today obtained the commercial equivalent of a beachhead in the heart of Europe, when Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte signed a Belt and Road accord in Rome. Their agreement makes Italy the first G7 country to join Belt and Road, a network of highways, ports, railroads, and energy pipelines that are quickly setting commercial terms around the world. the first G7 country to join Belt and Road, a network of highways, ports, railroads, and energy pipelines that are quickly setting commercial terms around the world. With the accord, Beijing obtains access to the ports of Trieste and Genoa, which will be the staging point for Chinese products to go by railroad and truck across the continent. "The EU has been so focused on Russia for so long that its now waking up to the reality that China poses a more serious challenge," says Jonathan Hillman, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. "Part of the delay is that Russia has posed a military threat, while China is exercising economic power." The U.S. has responded furiously in recent days, suggesting that Italy is a traitor to the West. Europe's largest countries, too, have expressed alarm. What worries China critics : Thus far in China's four-decade economic surge, Beijing has largely called the shots. Its businesses have enjoyed a relative open door to western economies while it has constrained access to its own markets, and displayed little respect for Western intellectual property. : Thus far in China's four-decade economic surge, Beijing has largely called the shots. Its businesses have enjoyed a relative open door to western economies while it has constrained access to its own markets, and displayed little respect for Western intellectual property. While President Trump, with his trade war, is attempting to break down some of the barriers, the Italian breach in Europe could weaken the solid western front. trade war, is attempting to break down some of the barriers, the Italian breach in Europe could weaken the solid western front. "Along with Chinas growing involvement in Europes telecom industry, we are seeing deepening economic links between Europe and China that will have long-term geopolitical implications," said Charles Kupchan, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. Italy itself suggests that its allies are overreacting: While it may not seem so, the deal does not come out of nowhere Italy has been negotiating it for months, and says Washington said nothing until now. In an op-ed yesterday in the FT, Michele Garaci, Italy's undersecretary of state at the Ministry of Economic Development, who has conducted the negotiations with Beijing, suggests that his country is being unfairly singled out. Chinese investment in European ports is nothing new, he says: China has put money in ports in Spain, France, the Netherlands, Malta and Greece (where it has a controlling stake in the port of Piraeus). Why the fuss over Italy? ports is nothing new, he says: China has put money in ports in Spain, France, the Netherlands, Malta and Greece (where it has a controlling stake in the port of Piraeus). Why the fuss over Italy? Italy, he says, is only "protecting our national interests and strategic assets" by getting onto the new Silk Road. While doing so, Italy is establishing best practices. He urges the rest of the big European nations to follow suit. This view appears to have broad local support: "Italy is part of the NATO Alliance, a founder of the European Union, and it has been a trusted ally for decades: it supported sanctions on Russia, and never [challenged] the Trans-Atlantic pact," Andrea Montanino, chief economist at Confindustria, tells Axios. What's next: Both Montanino and CSIS's Hillman suggest that, in the coming months, Europe will respond by forming a united front for a new trade agreement setting a more level playing field with China. "Its hard to imagine with all the Brexit distractions right now, but a response is coming," Hillman tells Axios. Editor's note: This story has been updated to show that the accord was signed on March 23, 2019. In just the past 12 months, Nebraska floods, Carolina and Florida hurricanes and California wildfires have put military installations in peril, ravaging buildings and doing billions in damage. The big picture: The national security consequences of climate change, mainly through extreme weather events, are here and now, Axios Science editor Andrew Freedman emails. Why it matters: This is not a far off threat for the Pentagon to consider, and it's certain to get more challenging as the climate continues to warm, seas rise, and stronger and wetter storms strike. The AP described the efforts to halt the floodwaters at Offutt Air Force Base, which hosts the Strategic Command headquarters just outside Omaha, Nebraska: "Earlier heavy flooding at Offutt has prompted the base to start raising its levee by 2 feet this year, said Maj. Meghan M. Liemburg-Archer, spokeswoman for Strategic Command." at Offutt has prompted the base to start raising its levee by 2 feet this year, said Maj. Meghan M. Liemburg-Archer, spokeswoman for Strategic Command." "More than 30 aircraft were towed to higher ground or flown to other locations. Crews hauled out loads of equipment, engines and tools." to higher ground or flown to other locations. Crews hauled out loads of equipment, engines and tools." "By Saturday , the flood had rolled over a third of the base, swamping more than 1.2 million square feet of buildings." , the flood had rolled over a third of the base, swamping more than 1.2 million square feet of buildings." "Though Strategic Command headquarters escaped flooding, it had to cut staff to a minimum as high water blocked roads. The command holds down a range of responsibilities, including global strike capacity, missile defense, nuclear operations and strategic deterrence." GIF of Offutt flooding. Credit: DigitalGlobe The bottom line: Retired Rear Adm. David W. Titley told the AP that Defense Department officials by and large know what they need to do, but its very hard for them to do. White House dynamics are the White House does not want to hear about it." With Robert Mueller's delivery of his report, and word from the Justice Department that he would have no more indictments, President Trump's legal team believes the immediate threat to the presidency has passed. What were hearing: "Sounds like it's over for us but of course its not over until its over," Rudy Giuliani, one of Trump's lawyers, texted me. "Cautious optimism. Still watchful waiting." No one named "Trump" will be indicted by the special counsel. But remember that, as Axios has outlined, what Mueller revealed in the course of his investigation was "highly damning and highly detailed." as Axios has outlined, what Mueller revealed in the course of his investigation was "highly damning and highly detailed." And remember that Trump's campaign chairman is behind bars, perhaps for life, and his longtime political fixer is going to prison. Trump's campaign chairman is behind bars, perhaps for life, and his longtime political fixer is going to prison. And numerous other federal state investigations are picking up steam. The split-screen America ahead: Fox News' Sean Hannity last night sported a "COLLUSION DELUSION" graphic. last night sported a "COLLUSION DELUSION" graphic. Over on MSNBC, Neal K. Katyal, acting solicitor general under President Obama, told Brian Williams: "Today what happened was the end of the beginning." The bottom line ... There are two forms of "collusion delusion": The Trump/Fox victory dance because no one new was indicted for collusion or corruption involving Russia and therefore claims of "witch hunts" and innocence were vindicated. The bitter reality that this probe has spawned many others stretching far beyond Russia so it's delusional to think it simply ends with no collusion. Be smart: The new defining question for American politics is: Will Democrats demand the nation stick to historical norms of proper presidential behavior, or will Mueller's revelations be the new standard? As Chile's Catholic Church is entangled in a sprawling sex abuse scandal, Pope Francis authorized the resignation of Cardinal Ricardo Ezzati as archbishop of Santiago, per a Vatican statement released on Saturday, Reuters reports. The big picture: Ezzati, 77, was the highest-ranking member of the Catholic Church in Chile. Despite abdicating his position, he can maintain his cardinal title. His resignation brought the total to 8 bishops who have stepped down since 34 Chilean bishops collectively withdrew during an emergency meeting with the pope in May 2018 amid a cover-up probe. Also last year, 2 other Chilean bishops were defrocked in response to accusations that they molested children. Per Reuters, investigations have followed 120 allegations of sexual abuse or cover-ups involving 167 Chilean Church officials or workers. What's next: Ezzati has been indicted on several charges of cover up, including some involving the case of Oscar Munoz, once a top aide to the Santiago Archbishopric, who will stand trial for charges of abuse and rape of at least 5 children. The Vatican announced the pope named Bishop Celestino Aos Braco as apostolic administrator to lead the Santiago archdiocese until a new archbishop is named. Go deeper: Almost 400 Catholic priests, staff in Illinois accused of child abuse Syrian Democratic Forces confirmed the Islamic State had been eliminated from its final stronghold on the Euphrates River on Saturday. Details: On Saturday U.S.-backed Syrian forces raised a yellow flag over town, celebrating their victory over ISIS. "Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and 100% territorial defeat of ISIS. On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible," tweeted Mustafa Bali, the head of the SDF press office. The White House Office of the Press Secretary delivered a statement on Saturday in response to the liberation of the ISIS-controlled territory, saying: "I am pleased to announce that, together with our partners in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, including the Iraqi Security Forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces, the United States has liberated all ISIS-controlled territory in Syria and Iraq100 Percent of the caliphate. Just two years ago, ISIS controlled a vast amount of territory in both Iraq and Syria. Since then, we have retaken more than 20,000 square miles of land and liberated millions of Syrians and Iraqis from ISISs caliphate. ISISs loss of territory is further evidence of its false narrative, which tries to legitimize a record of savagery that includes brutal executions, the exploitation of children as soldiers, and the sexual abuse and murder of women and children. To all of the young people on the internet believing in ISISs Propaganda, you will be dead if you join. Think instead about having a great life. While on occasion these cowards will resurface, they have lost all prestige and power. They are losers and will always be losers. We will remain vigilant against ISIS by aligning global counterterrorism efforts to fight ISIS until it is finally defeated wherever it operates. The United States will defend American interests whenever and wherever necessary. We will continue to work with our partners and allies to totally crush Radical Islamic Terrorists." But but but: Per Sami Nadar, the head of Levant Institute for Strategic Affairs, the conclusion of military operations against Islamic State does not guarantee the threat is eliminated, Bloomberg reports. By Trend Today Azerbaijan needs more technical assistance and less financial support, Mercy Tembon, the World Banks (WB) Regional Director for the South Caucasus, said in an exclusive interview with Trend. "In 1992, when Azerbaijan joined the WB group, it was not that developed and needed a lot of investments. But as time goes by, we can see that need for financial support is not as big as it used to be back then," she said. Tembon stressed that although the WBs program with the Azerbaijani government equally consists of all three components (financial assistance, technical assistance, knowledge sharing). Further, answering the question on financing of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC), she said that if any help is needed, the World Bank is always ready to provide the necessary support. The regional director said that SGC is a fantastic project, adding that the WB is happy of being one of the first international financial institutions, financing the project. The Southern Gas Corridor envisages the transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian region through Georgia and Turkey to Europe. The gas from the Azerbaijani Shah Deniz field has already gone through the first segment of the Southern Gas Corridor - from the Sangachal terminal to the expanded South Caucasus Pipeline. Azerbaijan joined the World Bank Group in 1992. During this period, the bank allocated loans for the implementation of over 50 projects in the country worth over $3 billion. Seven more projects worth about $1.5 billion are being implemented. Besides the loans, WB allocated 45 grants to Azerbaijan totalling $41.586 million in 1995-2014. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Azerbaijani Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov met with the Commander of the Land Forces of this country, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said March 22, Trend reports. During the meeting, the sides expressed satisfaction with the development of relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, both in bilateral and multilateral formats, in particular, the expansion of military cooperation, as well as the level of strategic partnership. The sides, also noting the importance of organizing mutual visits and holding meetings, once again stressed the need to expand relations in the field of security, including in the military, military-technical and military-educational spheres. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz President Akufo-Addo has asked the Ghana Police Service to give its unflinching support to the legislation to check vigilantism when it is passed and ensure its enforcement. Speaking at the end-of-year WASSA of the Police Service, the President reiterated his commitment to ending the worrying and unacceptable phenomenon of vigilantism in our body politic. As you know, I have tasked the Attorney General to prepare and submit to Parliament, as soon as possible, specific legislation to deal with this phenomenon of vigilantism and provide appropriate sanctions against its occurrence. I am asking for the full support of the Police Service in the passage of the law, and in its enforcement. We owe it to the Ghanaian people and to generations yet unborn to maintain the peace and stability of our nation, which our generation enjoys. As I indicated in my Message on the State of the Nation to Parliament, I am determined to end acts of political party vigilantism. I have said so on several occasions, and I will repeat it again. Crime is a crime, it has no political colour, and the police should act against any person or group of persons engaged in unlawful acts, he added. Describing the peace, the safety of people, and the territorial integrity as the most important things for a nation, President Akufo-Addo noted that law and order is particularly germane in the country, at a time when indiscipline, lawlessness, kidnappings, murders, assault by and against police officers, vigilantism, amongst others, are threatening the rule of law. The government, the President added, is determined to work with the Police Service to guarantee the security of citizens in accordance with the rule of law. And to that end, we are, amongst others, constructing a new National Detective Training Academy in Kenyasi No.1, in the Ahafo Region; and we have promoted 1,502 senior police officers and 18,853 junior officers, since I took office in 2017, with over 2,230 in the first quarter of 2019, a development which has been described as unprecedented by the IGP, President Akufo-Addo said. He continued, The construction of 320 housing units for officers at the National Police Training Academy is ongoing, and 4,000 police officers are being recruited into the Service, with 2,000 already under training. The government has, so far, supplied 320 vehicles to the Police Service, with 273 soon to be delivered. In addition, three helicopters are being procured to facilitate Police operations, with some selected Police Officers set to be trained as pilots. Touching on the image of the Police Service, President Akufo-Addo commended the police for arresting the trotro driver and his mate who assaulted a police officer, Constable Julius Mawuli Ekpe, on the Mallam-Kasoa road in Accra. In and around the same time, some police officers were also seen assaulting two journalists, Malik Sulemana and Raissa Sambou. I am happy that the IGP has moved quickly to interdict the police officers, who were responsible for the assault, ordering immediate investigations into the matter, he added. President Akufo-Addo noted that it is important for the growth and development of a society that justice is done to all manner of persons without fear or favour, affection or ill-will. It is in everybodys interest that the Police Service retains the neutrality and professionalism guaranteed under the Constitution. Source: citi 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 By Trend Azerbaijan expects to transship at least 4 million tons of Turkmen oil via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline in 2020, Elshad Nassirov, vice president for marketing and investments of Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR, said in an interview with S&P Global Platts, Trend reports. SOCAR transports crude oil from Turkmenistan across the Caspian Sea in tankers to the BTC pipeline. "Last year we transshipped approximately 4.2 million tons [of crude from Turkmenistan]. We expect this figure to be lower this year, but in 2020 I think it will be no less than 4 million tons," Nassirov said. Azerbaijan is also looking to increase cooperation with other Caspian states, particularly on transportation, he added. SOCAR also signed memorandum of understanding with Kazakhstan's KazMunaiGas earlier this year that envisages increasing cooperation on oil and gas production as well as transportation. In the medium term this may include Kazakhstan resuming deliveries via the BTC pipeline network as oil production there grows. The total length of the BTC pipeline is 1,768 kilometers, 443 kilometers of which passes through Azerbaijan, 249 through Georgia and 1,076 through Turkey. Construction of the pipeline was commenced in April 2003, and the pipeline was filled with oil on May 18, 2005. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Fox News on Thursday that the United States would step up financial and political pressure on Iran's theocratic regime as it seeks to "extend its reach" across the Middle East, Trend reports citing Fox News. "You've seen us now designate [Iran-backed] militias inside of Iraq [as terror groups]," Pompeo told "Fox News at Night" host Shannon Bream. "You've seen us designate senior leaders inside the [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps]. You've seen us designate financial institutions, financial agents engaged in moving illicit money in support of the Houthis [in Yemen], in support of Hamas, in support of Hezbollah. This administration has taken serious efforts across ... a broad range of efforts [by] Iran to extend its reach." Pompeo spoke to Fox News from Jerusalem, where he met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the latter's planned visit to the White House next week. The visit coincided with Trump's support for recognizing Israel's control of the disputed Golan Heights. Last week, the State Department dropped the phrase "Israeli-occupied" from the Golan Heights section, instead calling it "Israeli-controlled." Pompeo's visit is likely to further infuriate Palestinians, who have already severed ties with the US over Trump's decision to move the American embassy to Jerusalem last year. However, the secretary of state expressed optimism that the Trump administration could broker a lasting peace agreement. "This administration has created the conditions which ultimately may well get us to a place where we can achieve the very peace that everyone in the world wants," he said. "A better life for the Palestinian people, a better life and less conflict risk between the Palestinians and the Israelis." Pompeo also discussed the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, where opposition leader Juan Guaido's chief of staff was arrested and detained by disputed President Nicolas Marrero's intelligence forces. "We think we understand how this went down, we think we understand those who were involved," Pompeo said. "We will make sure that the world knows who those people were. ... We will do all that we can to hold the individuals accountable, those who conducted this activity and those who ordered it.." --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend The US deeply values the contributions of Kazakhstans first President Nursultan Nazarbayev to establishing and promoting enduring, dynamic relations between the US and Kazakhstan, reads a statement by Robert Palladino, deputy spokesperson of the US Department of State, Trend reports via Kazinform on March 23. At this historic moment in Kazakhstan, we salute Nazarbayevs role as the father of todays modern, sovereign, and prosperous Kazakhstan, and acknowledge the example he sets for responsible regional and global leadership, reads the statement. We once again applaud his significant efforts in the nonproliferation sphere, his leadership in global denuclearization efforts, his exemplary commitment to the peaceful transition of power, and his contributions to peace and prosperity in Kazakhstan and the region. Our relationship with Kazakhstan is based in our shared ideals of prosperity, respect for fundamental freedoms, and regional security, the statement said. We congratulate Kazakhstans new President Kassym-Zhomart Tokayev and look forward to continue working with him to deepen our enhanced strategic partnership and advance our longstanding mutual interests in economic development, trade and investment, and safeguarding regional and global security. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Matthew S. Klimow of Virginia, will be the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Turkmenistan, Trend reports citing the White House. Klimow, a career member of the Senior Executive Service, currently serves as Senior Advisor in the Office of the Under Secretary for Management at the Department of State. Previously, Klimow served as a Deputy Assistant Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Brussels, Belgium, and as a United States Army officer from 1974 to 2003, retiring with the rank of colonel. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday said he was ordering the withdrawal of recently announced North Korea-related sanctions imposed by the U.S. Treasury Department, Trend reports citing Reuters. It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large-scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea, Trump said on Twitter. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions! It was not immediately clear what sanctions Trump was referring to. There were no new U.S. sanctions on North Korea announced on Friday but on Thursday the United States blacklisted two Chinese shipping companies that it said helped North Korea evade sanctions over its nuclear weapons program. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders did not specify which sanctions Trump spoke of but said: President Trump likes Chairman Kim (Jong Un) and he doesnt think these sanctions will be necessary. The sanctions on the Chinese shippers were the first since the second U.S.-North Korea summit broke down last month. Hours after the sanctions announcement, North Korea on Friday pulled out of a liaison office with the South, a major setback for Seoul. North Korea said it was quitting the joint liaison office set up in September in the border city of Kaesong after a historic summit between leader Kim Jong Un and South Koreas President Moon Jae-in early last year. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend The European Unions commercial ties with China must be reciprocal, German Chancellor Merkel said, meaning that both sides should grant each other equal degrees of market access, Trend reports referring to Reuters. We are not just partners, but also competitors, she told reporters after a Brussels summit. We want a relationship based on reciprocity: if one side has access then the other side should too. She added that, while there was nothing to criticize in a memorandum of understanding Italy had signed with China, it would be preferable if the countries of the European Union acted together when dealing with China. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Tens of thousands of people opposed to Britains withdrawal from the European Union gathered to march through central London on Saturday to demand a new referendum as the deepening Brexit crisis risked sinking Prime Minister Theresa Mays premiership, Trend reports citing Reuters. After three years of tortuous debate, it is still uncertain how, when or even if Brexit will happen as May tries to plot a way out of the gravest political crisis in at least a generation. May hinted on Friday that she might not bring her twice-defeated EU divorce deal back to parliament next week, leaving her Brexit strategy in meltdown. The Times and The Daily Telegraph reported that pressure was growing on May to resign. Its intolerable, the situation that were in, and Im afraid Theresas the problem, Anna Soubry, a pro-EU lawmaker who left the Conservative party to join the Independent Group in February, told BBC TV. She has to go, and we need some temporary prime minister who can reach out, put the country first, and get this back to the British people. Thats what were all marching for today. While the country and its politicians are divided over Brexit, most agree it is the most important strategic decision the United Kingdom has faced since World War Two. Pro-EU protesters gathered for a Put it to the people march at Marble Arch on the edge of Hyde Park around midday, before marching past the prime ministers office in Downing Street and finish outside parliament. While there was no official estimate of the numbers, a Reuters reporter said tens of thousands of people had gathered even before the event officially started. Organisers were confident that the size of the crowd would exceed a similar rally held in October, when supporters said about 700,000 people turned up. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz The Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Osei Assibey Antwi, has showered praises on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of his ascension to the Golden Stool. He stated emphatically that Otumfuos 20-year reign had brought total transformation to Asanteman and Ghana in general. According to the Kumasi Mayor, virtually all the various areas in Asanteman have witnessed massive growth by virtue of Otumfuos excellent leadership. Mr. Assibey Antwi told DAILY GUIDE exclusively that Otumfuo ascended the stool at a crucial period in the history of Asanteman and Ghana at large. He, therefore, prayed fervently to God to grant the Asantehene long life, wisdom and health so that he can continue to lead Asanteman into affluence. The mayor mentioned that Otumfuo had transformed education by giving many children scholarships to pursue excellence, saying Otumfuos Education Fund has supported over 20,000 brilliant but needy students from the various backgrounds across Ghana to climb high the educational ladder. He said the immense contribution of Asantehene to the educational sector must be commended highly. He has also helped to construct school buildings, donated books and furniture and also organized teachers awards to motivate teachers in Ghana and needs to be commended, he stressed. The mayor said Otumfuo had spearheaded the building of clinics to improve the health sector, saying his massive support, through the Otumfuo Charity Foundation to children, whose parents have died through HIV/AIDS, cannot be underestimated. He said through Otumfuos leadership style land guard issues which pose security threats have vanished from Asanteman, adding that Otumfuo has managed to resolve all the chieftaincy disputes in Asanteman, and this has brought total peace and also eliminated problems related to land guards. He also described Otumfuo as a kind, peace-loving and development-oriented traditional leader who always wants to see Ghanaians live peacefully together. Upon getting closer to him as the Kumasi Mayor, I have realized that Otumfuo is the epitome of wisdom and peace, and that is why God has blessed him and Asanteman. Source: Daily Guide 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 An Accra High Court which is to start the trial of Daniel Asiedu aka Sexy Dondon, one of the suspects being held for the murder of the late J.B. Dankwa- Adu, Member of Parliament for Abuakwa North, says it will get him a competent lawyer to defend him. The court presided over by Mr Justice Boadi gave the assurance when Asiedu and Vincent Bossu aka Junior Agogo appeared before it for the first time. Asiedu continued to insist on being represented by a lawyer from the International Criminal Court. According to Asiedu he would be glad if the said lawyer from Ghana would be truthful. He told the court that his lawyer, Mr Augustines Obuor was fed up with the matter hence he has not been attending court. The court, however, informed Asiedu that there were competent lawyers in Ghana who could defend him. In the case of Bossu, he told the court that his lawyer was Mr Kasim Miniru. Ms Sefakor Batsa, Senior State Attorney informed the court that; This is a fresh matter and we are here for the courts direction. She explained that after committal proceedings at the District court, the matter was transferred to the High Court. The trial judge indicated that he had seen the bill of indictment, summary of evidence and other documents filed. Asiedu and Bossu are being held over the death of the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa North. They have been charged with conspiracy to commit a crime to wit robbery. Asiedu is facing additional charges of robbery and murder. The two were arrested following their alleged involvement in the murder of the MP. In the year 2016, the MP was murdered in his residence at East Legon and following Police investigations the accused persons were arrested. They have since been remanded into Prison custody by the High Court to reappear on April 1. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video You can reach Sam Morgen at 661-395-7415 or smorgen@bakersfield.com. You may also follow him on Twitter @smorgenTBC. African Court on Human and Peoples Right has called for the strengthening of the culture of human rights justice in Africa. As an African Court, we should stand out as a model for internal reforms and an efficiency icon for the rest of the institutions and citizens of the continent, Justice Sylvain Ore, the African Court President stated in a telephone interview with the Ghana News Agency. The African Court President has therefore declared 2019 as a year of personal excellence and contribute to the success of the human rights justice administration in Africa. Justice Ore encouraged Human Rights Advocates, Lawyers, Judges, Media and other stakeholders to adhere to professionalism, perseverance and team spirit to propel the administration of human rights justice to Africans across the continent. He also commended the staff of the African Court, whose contribution led to tremendous achievements in 2018, stressing what we achieved as a team is a faithful reflection of this commitment and I take this opportunity to congratulate you wholeheartedly. The entire African human rights community, our major achievement in 2018 was judicial productivity, which almost doubled over the past two years. Our main mission is to render justice to Africans and African victims of violation of their rights. We can be proud to have rendered justice to a greater extent in 2018. Justice Ore said this year, the African Court would continue with the sensitisation mission, which formed part of the on-going efforts to interact with different stakeholders in order to deepen their understanding of the Continental Courts mission and importance. He said the mission to different countries to encourage African Union (AU) Member States to ratify the Protocol establishing the African Court and deposit the declaration under Article 34(6) which allowed direct access to the Court by Non-governmental Organisations and individuals. The African Court President said for the African Court to achieve its objectives and strengthen the African human rights system, a greater number of countries must ratify the Protocol and make the declaration under Article 34(6). He explained that the success of the African Court as a human rights protection mechanism required much wider ratification of the Protocol by Member States, as well as their acceptance of the competence of the Court by making the declaration under Article 34(6). This universal ratification will give the African Court the legitimacy it needs to effectively discharge its mandate, he said. He said since December 2010, the African Court had carried out continent-wide promotion programmes, by undertaking sensitisation visits and held regional seminars and conferences. Justice Ore said the main objective of the sensitisation visits was to enhance the protection of human rights in Africa; raising public awareness about the African Court; encouraging the ratification of the Protocol and deposit of the Declaration that allowed individuals and NGOs direct access to the African Court. He said its a platform also used to educate would-be applicants on how to access the African Court and the procedures before the African Court; encourages the public to utilise the African Court in settling human rights disputes. The African Continental Court was established by virtue of Article 1 of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Establishment of an African Court, to complement the protective mandate of the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights with a view to enhancing the protection of human rights on the continent. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The president and CEO of Baltimore-based University of Maryland Medical System agreed to take a leave of absence, effective March 25, amid a scandal involving business deals between the system and several of its board members, according to The Washington Post. Six things to know: 1. UMMS Board Chairman Stephen Burch announced the board's unanimous decision March 21 to have President and CEO Robert Chrencik take a leave of absence. The system will also hire an independent accounting and legal firm to audit the board's contracts, and the search for an independent third party will begin immediately. "Over the past week, I've had the proper time to listen to concerns and reflect. The board and I am firmly committed to evolving our governance principles and operating with even more transparency," Mr. Burch said. 2. John Ashworth, senior vice president of network development at UMMS and associate dean at the Baltimore-based University of Maryland School of Medicine, will serve as interim president and CEO of the 13-hospital system. 3. The leadership changes follow the resignations of three UMMS board members, including Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh. At least four other board members have taken a leave of absence. The deals have been sharply criticized by state lawmakers, including Gov. Larry Hogan. 4. Ms. Pugh resigned from the board after facing criticism for a $500,000 book deal she made with UMMS. A spokesperson for the mayor's office said March 20 Ms. Pugh has returned $100,000 in profit to the health system because production on the books was delayed and they were not actually delivered to UMMS, which had planned to distribute the books to city schools. 5. Hours before Mr. Burch notified the public of Mr. Chrencik's leave of absence, the Maryland House of Delegates unanimously fast-tracked a bill to overhaul UMMS' 27-member board of directors, The Washington Post reports. 6. Amid the scandal at UMMS, The Baltimore Sun reviewed state disclosure and tax forms for several other health systems in the state and found at least five other systems have engaged in business deals with members of their board. The American Hospital Association's guidance on the issue does not prevent such deals from taking place, but asks that leadership ensure "certain preconditions to make sure that the organization's interests prevail in the board's decision-making." Official report from the Jema Government Hospital has confirmed that 67 people perished in the gory accident which occurred on the Techiman-Kintampo highway in the early hours of Friday. Two of the survivors who sustained degrees of injury died on arrival at the hospital whilst 35 of the deceased were burnt beyond recognition when one of the buses involved in the accident caught fire due to the impact of the crash. Dr. Prince Kwabena Tabiri, the Medical Officer in charge of the Hospital told the media on Friday at Jema in the Kintampo South District of the newly-created Bono East Region that the charred bodies have since been deposited at the Hospitals mortuary, and about 30 of the injured were also on admission, saying, that many of the injured are in critical condition. At the Techiman Holy Family Hospital Meanwhile, Mr. Christopher Akanbobnaab, the Administrator told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that six persons out of 30 injured and on admission at the Hospital were in critical condition. He said no death had yet been recorded among the injured on admission but two of those in critical condition were at the theatre. The accident occurred around 0100 hours when two buses, a Grandbird with registration number GT 5694-18 traveling from Garu to Kumasi and a VIP bus with registration number GT 3916-17, which was travelling from Accra to Bolgatanga collided head-on. GNA investigations revealed that the accident happened at Watchman, a farming settlement along the highway between Tuobodom in the Techiman North District and Jema. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A federal appeals court declined a full review of its decision to award $248 million to Stryker in a surgical tool patent case against Zimmer Biomet, according to MassDevice. Five things to know: 1. In December 2010, Stryker sued Zimmer Biomet in the U.S. District Court for Western Michigan, alleging that Zimmer infringed on three wound debridement technology patents with Zimmer's Pulsavac Plus device. 2. In February 2013, a jury awarded Stryker $70 million; Judge Robert Jonker trebled the damages in August 2013. 3. In 2014, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit rolled back the $228 million ruling, claiming that Stryker failed to prove willful infringement. Stryker appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, which vacated the appeals court's ruling and ordered it to reconsider the case. 4. In December 2018, the Federal Circuit upheld the treble damages in the case, based on a Supreme Court decision in Halo Electronics v. Pulse Electronics that relaxed the standard for enhanced damage awards in patent infringement cases. 5. Zimmer Biomet appealed that decision, asking for a three-judge panel and the entire Federal Circuit bench to re-evaluate the case. The court denied both petitions March 19 and set March 26 as the date for issuing the court mandate. An application has been submitted for a licence to allow Drumbo Park to reopen for greyhound racing, it can be revealed. The charity Almost Home Greyhound Rescue NI has reacted with dismay to the development and said countless dogs will suffer if the application to permit racing is given the green light. Drumbo Park in Lisburn closed at the start of the year, with the loss of 44 jobs. At the time, directors blamed a combination of factors for the decision to pull down the shutters, including online betting, a lack of government funding and restrictive licensing laws. However, less than three months later, an application for a track betting licence has been submitted by newly-formed company Run with Passion Ltd. Former Drumbo Park stadium manager John Connor is a director of the firm, according to Companies House. Almost Home Greyhound Rescue NI said it is devastated at the prospect of the track reopening. A spokesperson said: "I am gutted. This must not be permitted, imagine if it was cockapoos or Labradors being injured and killed on such a scale. "There is no way it would be allowed to continue. "Surely gambling addiction is a problem in this country as well as everywhere else. "We believe it would make more sense to turn the facility into a safe community dog park with cafe and a greyhound rehoming and education centre. "Greyhounds are the best dogs and they make the easiest house pets as they need little exercise compared to other breeds and are also very devoted to their humans. "The only difficult greyhounds are those blooded with live chickens, rabbits and kittens to try to make them chase. "Greyhounds are the most gentle, affectionate and easiest house pets, but the industry won't allow comparison with pets as the greyhounds are easily disposable as betting commodities. "Drumbo Park cannot be allowed to reopen if live animals are going to suffer as a result." It is not known what has prompted the decision to try to reopen the racetrack, coming so soon after the former director of the racetrack said they had run out of money. Previously, Michael McAdam said that over the weekend prior to the closure the business had recorded a 10,000 loss despite efforts to cut overheads. He said the financial problems were being exacerbated by "restrictive licensing laws". "You can race on a Sunday, you can gamble on a Sunday, you can have a meal in our restaurant, but you can't have a glass of wine with it," he said. "So that ruled out the opportunity to try and change our race pattern. It's just so frustrating - nobody wanted to help us." Queen's University, Belfast has told its 3,700 staff that they will be paid early this month because of Brexit. The large workforce at the academic institution was informed on Thursday that wages will be transferred on March 27 following a decision by its Brexit operational working group. The email pre-dated Thursday night's decision in Brussels to grant the UK an extension to Article 50 beyond March 29. "As a result of the ongoing uncertainty relating to Brexit, the university has put in place a number of contingency plans to reassure our staff and reduce risks to business continuity," a spokesperson said. "This includes the practical step of paying salaries earlier than usual for March 2019 to avoid any potential disruption and inconvenience in the unlikely event of banking or payments processing issues on the original withdrawal date of March 29. "The university is also providing regular information events for international staff and dedicated web resources to keep staff and students informed as the situation evolves." It's understood that the decision was not based on advice from Northern Ireland's four main banks. A source at one of the main banks said yesterday that it was not anticipating any issues around transactions on March 29, nor had it advised business customers to alter their pay schedules. Ulster University said yesterday that it was not changing its pay day, which falls on the last Thursday of every month. The Department of Finance also confirmed that wages for civil servants will be paid as normal. "DoF is not bringing forward the payment dates of NICS salaries due to Brexit or for any other reason. All salaries will be paid as normal," said a spokesperson. The president of the University and Colleges Union at Queen's welcomed the development. Dr Merav Amir said while the decision was not something the union was aware of, staff were "very happy" the university was taking the precautionary measure. "Anything that will reduce the uncertainty that people have to face around this time, is a positive development from our perspective," she said. "We're quite happy that they decided to do it." Star turn: Steve McQueen famously used a motorbike in a bid for freedom in The Great Escape Digging in: from left, Richard Attenborough and Charles Bronson as the Tunnel King in The Great Escape Orange Order historians in Northern Ireland who regularly bang the drum about the achievements of their famous old boys across the world have just discovered a previously unknown link between their organisation and the famous Great Escape by Allied prisoners during the Second World War. For after a little bit of digging they've unearthed the surprising fact that Wallace Floody, on whom Charles Bronson's Tunnel King character in the Great Escape movie was based, was a leading Orangeman who's being remembered at events to mark this year's 75th anniversary of the break-out. Yet until 2018 the Order here had absolutely no knowledge about Floody, his Orange background or of his ties to the Great Escape, making him the one that got away, so to speak. A call from Canada last year alerted local Orangemen to the possibility that Floody might have been a member of the Order on the other side of the Atlantic. And it was later confirmed that he was indeed an Orangeman. Floody was born and bred in Ontario, though it's thought his ancestors may have come from Ireland, bringing their fervour for the Orange Order with them as they settled in a small hamlet they called Enniskillen. "We knew nothing until last year about Wallace Floody or his connections to the Orange Order," says Dr Jonathan Mattison, the curator of the Museum of Orange Heritage on Belfast's Cregagh Road. But after carrying out their spadework Jonathan and his team found that the Floody family had long been immersed in the Orange tradition in Canada, which used to boast one of the biggest numbers of members in the world, upwards of 100,000 at one point. Research showed that the Floodys had been members of the Orange Order in Toronto from the 1830s. Floody's great-grandfather is also listed in the history books as the leader of loyalists from his local area who went to Toronto in 1837 to defend the city from a rebellion and earned himself the nickname of "Two Tunes", because he thought the only tunes worth playing were Orange ones. It's also been established that Wallace Floody's father helped set up the Conservative party in Peel County in Canada and once spoke of the massive numbers of Orangemen in the area. He said: "Wherever I went, it was Orange grips, Orange passwords and then the freedom of the county." The story goes that when Wallace Floody was born on April 28, 1918, his parents decided to have him baptised on the Twelfth of July. It's also claimed that he was christened in water from the River Boyne but how it travelled the very untraditional route from Co Louth to Canada is the subject of major conjecture. But it's known that Floody's Christian names of Clarke Wallace were a nod to Nathaniel Clarke Wallace, a former Grand Master of the Grand Orange Lodge of Canada whose parents were from Co Sligo. The young Wallace Floody moved to northern Ontario in 1936 and started to acquire some of the mining skills that would stand him in good stead for the Great Escape. In the mines Floody shovelled rock and mud into carts before they were hauled to the surface and after working in Alberta he returned to Ontario at the outbreak of the Second World War and tried to enlist in the Royal Canadian Airforce. "With no money he financed his trip to Toronto by shovelling coal into the locomotive boiler for the whole way back from Alberta," says Jonathan. However, Floody's hopes of becoming a pilot were initially dashed because he was a married man and recruitment officers were keener on enlisting single men. Eventually, Floody persuaded them that his wife was backing him 100%. So he was allowed to reach for the skies and after training in Manitoba, Floody became a Spitfire pilot with No 401 Squadron, RCAF, in England. Floody's career in the air, however, was short-lived. On one of his earliest sorties into France, he was shot down by a group of Messerschmitts over Saint-Omer but he bailed out, only to be captured by German military police. Floody's detention was the start of his Great Escape story He was sent to Stalag Luft I where fellow prisoners of war persuaded him to use his mining skills in a daring attempt to escape. However, two of his tunnels were found by the Germans and he was sent to Stalag Luft 111 in Poland. But if that was supposed to curb his enthusiasm for freedom, it backfired. In his new surroundings he utilised his mining experience with even more zeal and audaciously drew up plans for three escape tunnels, with the thinking that if one of them was spotted, the Germans would stop looking for any others. Earning himself the nickname of "the Tunnel King", Floody called his trio of escape routes Tom, Dick and Harry. Tom was found by the Germans in November 1943 and Dick was abandoned because its exit became obvious after the camp guards cleared the area around it of trees to facilitate an expansion to the camp. However, Dick did play its part because sand and soil from Harry was stored in the empty tunnel. Soon it was all-systems go. Yet Floody, who did a lot of the tunnelling and was caught in several collapses, never got the chance to join the Great Escape. Unlike the film, which took liberties with the truth and which showed Bronson's Tunnel King getting away, Floody was moved from his camp before he could flee. Jonathan says that the Germans were always suspicious of Floody because of his mining background, but became even more wary due to his pale complexion. "To them it looked like he wasn't getting enough exposure to the sunlight and they suspected what he was doing but they couldn't find out for sure," he adds. Just before the escape bid, Floody and 19 other prisoners were transferred to Belaria POW camp in Italy. He always regretted the switch, because he told friends he never got over the feeling that he should have joined his fellow conspirators in the escape attempt which was set for March 24, 1944. But the Germans' decision probably saved his life. The escape tunnel turned out to be 28 metres short of woods beyond the camp, leaving the only option for prisoners to make a dash for freedom in the open. Seventy six men did escape, though all but three of them were recaptured. And, as is chillingly portrayed in the movie, 50 of them were shot dead in cold blood, with the orders coming directly from a furious Hitler. After the war Floody testified at the Nuremberg war tribunals about conditions in the POW camps and in 1946 he was awarded an OBE by King George VI. His citation read: "Flight Lieutenant (F/L) Floody made a thorough study of tunnelling work and devised many different methods and techniques. He became one of the leading organisers and indefatigable workers in the tunnels themselves. Besides being arduous, his work was frequently dangerous... F/L Floody was buried under heavy falls of sand... but, despite all dangers and difficulties, F/L Floody persisted, showing a marked degree of courage and devotion to duty." Floody's inside track on the repeated efforts to get out of the POW camps featured in a book about him and had another unusual spin-off in 1963 when he was hired to work as the technical adviser on The Great Escape. He enjoyed the 12-month stint and went on to comment that he liked Hollywood actors including James Garner, Steve McQueen and Charles Bronson. But he added in a subsequent TV interview: "They would have had to pay me a lot of money to be an actor. It's a boring job. You sit and sit and sit and wait for something to happen." Back in Canada, Floody resumed his membership of Imperial LOL No 2767, a Toronto Orange Lodge, and he became a salesman, a conventions organiser and a champion of cancer charities and the Red Cross, as well as working on behalf of military veterans. He died in September 1989 and refused to have a funeral. He said his 50 colleagues murdered by the Gestapo hadn't had funerals and he didn't want one either. In Belfast the Orange Order is hoping to put up a pictorial tribute to Floody on its wall of fame in the Heritage Museum which includes photographs of former Prime Ministers and Presidents from around the globe, notably Canada and New Zealand. Floody, however, isn't the first Orange figure in North America to have come as a shock to the Order here. Several years ago it was revealed that the Secret Service agent who was driving President Kennedy's car on the day of his assassination in Dallas in November 1963 was a Tyrone man who had once been a member of an Orange lodge near Stewartstown in Co Tyrone. Bill Greer emigrated to America in his teens and joined the Navy and later the Secret Service. He drove for presidents Truman and Eisenhower before being recruited to be JFK's chauffeur. Greer's photograph is on the montage of pictures at the Cregagh Road museum. Museum of Orange Heritage, 368 Cregagh Road, Belfast I've been dreading the week ahead for such a long time. Many months ago my son, who's in the last year of primary school, came and asked me if he could go on a school trip to London. At the time I remember thinking that it would be great to give him something to look forward to, a light at the end of the horrible transfer test tunnel and a special experience to share with the people in his class before he and his mates head their separate ways in September when they start big school. So, I said yes, signed the permission slip and handed over almost enough money to pay for a family holiday to Spain. And I have regretted it ever since. It's not the money involved that has given me second thoughts, although I confess I thought I was seeing double when so many digits appeared in the 'total cost' box. It's that I can't bear the thought of my boy travelling so far away from me that I'd have to catch a plane to reach him. My children have travelled to far-flung countries without me before but never without a family member to watch over them. My mum regularly springs the eldest two from the boring confines of life at home to take them with her to the Canary Islands during the half-term holidays. I know that she lets them eat chocolate and crisps for breakfast, lunch and dinner and that they're allowed to stay up as late as they want to but I also know that she would give Rambo a run for his money if anyone, or indeed anything, was to threaten their safety. It's a big leap of faith to hand your child, the walking, talking beat of your heart into the hands of adults outside your family circle and trust that they'll be taken care of and protected in the way you would. Don't get me wrong, my son's school is superb. It has a wonderful, caring headmaster, the teachers are fantastic and they all go above and beyond on a daily basis. I know they'll do a superb job of watching over him but it's just hard to turn off that maternal instinct to protect my babies and, instead, to let them step out into the world, literally in this case, without being by their side to catch them if they fall. It's something all parents know we need to do, to let our children do their own thing and encourage independence along the way, but that doesn't make it any easier. When I was just 15, not much older than my son is now, I headed off to work in France for a few weeks. My parents let me go there, having taken every precaution they could think of to make sure I was secure that summer. My dad had accompanied me over to France, they had checked out the family I went to work for, given me an emergency pot of money to dip into if needed and, while I was there, phoned every night to check that I was safe and happy. They had done everything they could to ensure my safety but still allow me to spread my wings at the same time. Achieving that outcome is such a tricky balancing act but it's one that all parents of teenagers attempt. I'm sure many thought they had successfully managed it last weekend when their youngsters went out to the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown. Before leaving for that St Patrick's Day party, I've no doubt that dozens of families had the same question and answer session along the lines of, who are you going with, how are you getting there, how are you getting home and what time will you be back? Questions that you think would provide you with enough information to keep your children safe. Sadly, after the terrible tragedy that took three young lives, we now know that not to be the case. I can't start to imagine how those parents are feeling. I only know that the whole country is heartbroken for them and that those of us with teenagers have been hugging them extra tightly since last Sunday night... I had been trying to get to the Angler's Rest by Benone Beach ever since chef Paula McIntyre had sung its praises to me months ago, insisting we must go there for lunch. Many failed attempts to find a mutually convenient date followed and in the end a window during which I could jump in the car and go there alone opened up. Turns out Paula also had a moment the next day, so we were both there, alone, within 24 hours. As with any long-haul drive from Belfast I wondered, was it going to be worth it? I consoled myself with the thought that a bad review is always easier to write, so either way it would be a win-win. The restaurant, lonely and isolated on a stretch of road between the magnificent steep rise of Binevenagh and the vast sands of Benone strand, does not offer a good first impression to the tired traveller. It starts with arrival at what looks like a roadside Irish cottage but painted MoD bunker grey. It has the lovely Angler's Rest logo sign on it but, God, that paint? But this must not put you off, as I discovered minutes later. I walked into an entirely empty bar. At each end of the classic Irish pub interior are two fireplaces, both log fires roaring. A couple of seconds later a young woman appears, all smiles, and asks, "Are you here for lunch?". After that, the place starts filling up and, within minutes, there's the buzz of hungry visitors and travellers who have also heard about the delights of this deceptively and unexpectedly fabulous wee place. The menu is distinctly pub but only at first glance. There's ham and eggs, bangers and mash, beef pie and fish and chips. Take a closer look and the ham and eggs is actually a slow-cooked hock from nearby Corndale Farm. It has been glazed with Irish black butter, the intriguing dark spread made from apples, and it comes with Corndale's own chorizo, used to make a rich hash with potatoes and two fried eggs on top. It is astonishingly well made - the meat glides away from the bone like two ballroom dancers separating in mid-dance. The flavour of the pork is as deep and salty as you have ever had it and the rich egg yolks add a wintry support to this big dish. In the interests of research and any future questions, I have the chowder to start. This is as good as Niall McKenna's in James Street, beautifully balanced and generous in salmon, hake, prawns and other bits and pieces I cannot identify (but very, very few spuds) and a cake-like slice of nearly black, crumbling Guinness bread. A lick of Broighter Gold oil over the top actually adds a visually attractive touch (and it is from just around the corner). Angler's Rest has a 484 menu, which means that for 16 you can eat like medieval Irish nobility. There is ham hock terrine with house pickles, toasted sourdough and celeriac remoulade, crispy pork croquettes with Bramley apple puree and wholegrain mustard, crispy smoked haddock and seafood fishcakes - and that's just for starters. Among the mains are vintage cheddar and onion pie, braised angus ragu and even homemade meatballs. There is much more but, in effect, the price largely makes up for the drive there because, honestly, you will not get this quality for miles. And then there's the service. Husband and wife team Thomas and Patricia Deighan are the kind of hospitable pair who just want people to come back, and to secure that repeat, they know they have to be brilliant. The thing is, they make it look easy. Chris Furey and Chris Fitzwilliam in the kitchen are class acts, as is Emma behind the bar, at welcoming, taking orders, pulling pints, stoking the fires and generally being the kind of hostess every bar and restaurant in Ireland needs. My advice is to get there as quickly as you can because there will soon be a rush. And don't let that paint put you off. The bill Chowder (Starter size)....................... 4 Ham & eggs special ..................... 12.95 Orange posset .................................... 4 Total............................................... 20.95 The year is 1848 - a turbulent and uncertain time for both Europe and the monarchy. And there lies the dramatic backdrop for the third series of ITV hit show Victoria, which sees Jenna Coleman reprise her role as the young Queen, alongside Tom Hughes as Prince Albert. Not only is Queen Victoria under pressure from the Government to leave London for her own safety, but her relationship with her husband is at breaking point as they clash over the role of the monarchy. Victoria is one of ITV's most successful dramas - the first series was the highest rating drama of 2016 on the channel. And both Coleman and Hughes, whose romance extends off-screen, were delighted to return to their roles. "I love her lack of filter, her frankness and honesty," enthuses Blackpool-born Coleman (32). "I love the fact that, if she likes someone, she is incredibly loyal and if she doesn't, she will let that person know. "In terms of playing her, when she is in a bad mood, or is tired, she is very reactionary and temperate, so she has always been known and written about as having tempers." Indeed, we can probably expect some emotional outbursts from the monarch in the new episodes. "As she gets older, she becomes even less controlled," adds Coleman, "so it is fun to age with her." For Hughes, who's also 32, there is a continued fascination about how unique Albert's story is. "There are only a small amount of people in the history of mankind who have held his position," suggests the Chester-born actor. "In terms of history, this era was one of shifting sands and the world won't ever return from this point, so the human impact of that fascinates me." Adding to the fans' excitement over Victoria's return to our screens is the fact that Laurence Fox (40) has joined the cast as the Foreign Secretary, Lord Palmerston. "He's a bit of an old rogue," the Lewis star offers up as a description of the role. "He's a little bit Boris Johnson-y." The actor, who was born in Yorkshire, continues with a smile: "He's a maverick, doesn't do what he's told, very rude to everybody, but quite diplomatic." There are similarities between his character and President Donald Trump, too, Fox notes. "What they do cleverly in the show is parallel it up with modern life, so there is a slight Trump-iness to him in terms of the fact that he is a populist and nationalist and a troublemaker." So, what is Palmerston's relationship with Victoria like? "Bit fractious. He thinks, 'What are these Germans doing in charge of England?' So, he sort of gently winds them up. She's very patient; we do develop a begrudging respect for each other, because I give her some good advice. "And she appreciates the fact that (Palmerston is) strong-willed and single-minded and that I act in what I perceive to be the nation's best interest." Another new development this series is the arrival of Victoria's mysterious sister Feodora, who makes an unexpected return into the Queen's life. Played by Harlots star Kate Fleetwood, viewers will quickly realise that the siblings have a tricky relationship. "There is a lot of unspoken resentment and history between these two - Victoria resents Feodora for leaving her when she went off and got married; Feodora resents Victoria for having the attention and focus because she was the heir," explains Coleman. "They also have a shared experience at Kensington, which bonds them, so there is a constant push and pull of love and resentment between them. They haven't seen each other for years and instinctively Victoria doesn't trust Feodora." Feodora also has an impact on Albert as she "plays him brilliantly, preying on a weakness she may not even realise he has", says Hughes. "She becomes everything Albert is lacking. Victoria and him are distant and when the invisible string between them is fraying, he needs that female figure in his life as there is a void, and Feodora sweeps in and fills that." When the series starts, Victoria is pregnant with her and Albert's sixth child. So, as you would expect, there are a lot of children running around in between takes. "It is a form of utterly amazing and completely chaotic mayhem," quips Coleman. "You just have to call 'action' and see what happens. "Kids really do say the funniest things and it is the unpredictability on set which is hilarious, especially when you throw in a few dogs, horses and a couple of politicians. "I can't imagine the palace now not inhabited by hordes of children." Another challenge for Coleman this series was filming a scene in which Victoria takes what was meant to be a leisurely dip. She had to wear a bathing suit which "is a lot like pyjamas that are made from hemp" and there were some treacherous waves that day. "It was absolutely freezing and unfortunately we had to film this twice because the weather was so awful," she recalls. The shoot for Victoria sounds intense, what with long days of filming and some uncomfortable period costumes. But even with the early starts on set, Fox says Palmerston has been the most "fun character ever" to play. And, as with all the roles he delves into, he never struggled to switch off after filming. "I'm only ever really concentrating when they say 'action' anyway. I don't really like to concentrate at other times, otherwise it's all a bit serious. When you work with people who are very serious, it can be very draining." Of the acting process, he continues: "The longer you do it, the more forgiving you are towards everyone's process and at the end of the day you've got to respect how everybody gets to their place. "But not for me; it's like you've got to play and feel quite playful, and then you can go and do what you need to do." Victoria, ITV, Sunday, 9pm Teachers are being pushed to the limit, assaulted in class and face trial by social media from parents and pupils, a leading union representative will warn today. Teachers are being pushed to the limit, assaulted in class and face trial by social media from parents and pupils, a leading union representative will warn today. NASUWT Northern Ireland president David Baxter is to tell the union's annual conference near Belfast that police and government officials must do more and work together to protect those working in education. He will also highlight the "perilous state" of the education service here due to lack of funding, and urge MLAs to restore the Assembly. At the event, NASUWT members will debate a range of motions on pay, sexual harassment, making upskirting and downblousing an offence in criminal law, violence against teachers, school funding, and a call for changes to the Fair Employment and Treatment (NI) Order 1988. Teaching jobs are exempt from the legislation - meaning that schools can lawfully discriminate on the grounds of religious belief in the appointment of teachers. Although the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) has said in the past it would like to see that exemption being removed, moves to do so at Stormont never succeeded. Mr Baxter will say that he has had his "eyes opened at the level of ill-health of teachers and also, the number of physical assaults on staff". Earlier this year, former Enniskillen Royal Grammar School pupil Timothy Boomer (18) was found guilty of outraging public decency after he filmed up the skirts of two of his teachers in 2015 and 2016. "I keep my most impassioned call for the police and government to work together to protect us in the teaching profession," Mr Baxter will say. "We professionals, we caring professionals, constantly face trial and jury by social media and the wrath of angry pupils and parents. "We have some degree of protection in our classrooms but against a global internet industry, we are powerless." Mr Baxter will say he is "very concerned about the mental and emotional state of teachers". He will add: "We are pushed to the limit, due to a very caring and compassionate workforce which is used and abused by management." Mr Baxter will also address school funding, saying that "all aspects of education are in a perilous state". He is also due to warn that children are suffering as a result of the Stormont stalemate. "I call on politicians to use every ounce of energy they have to restore governance in Northern Ireland. "These fine young people, tomorrow's leaders, are the ones who are ultimately suffering - they only have one crack at growing up," he is to say. The Department of Education said: "The safety of teaching and support staff in schools is the responsibility of individual schools and employing authorities. "The department abhors any violence towards or abuse of staff in schools. "It will fully support schools and employing authorities in addressing this issue." The Education Authority spokesperson: "The safety and well-being of all our staff is a top priority. "We regularly meet with trade union colleagues through our joint health and safety committee to discuss matters of this nature and actions required to ensure we have safe and respectful working environments for our staff." The CCMS added that teachers' safety at work is not just a matter of concern for teachers, employers and trade unions, but also for wider society. "We need to ask serious questions as to why it is the case and whether it is ever acceptable that increasingly teachers, or indeed other public servants, should have to consider their safety at risk," it said. "CCMS is unambiguous in this regard, teachers deserve to be free from this concern and we would welcome an opportunity to work with all of our partners developing strategies to achieve that goal." The PSNI said: "Abuse of any kind whether physical, verbal or online is unacceptable, and police officers are committed to investigating offences, supporting victims and bringing perpetrators to justice. "We are mindful of the impact that abuse can have on family and work life. "We would therefore encourage any member of teaching and teaching support staff who has been subjected to abuse to report it to police. "We would also welcome the opportunity to work with the education sector to try and prevent incidences of abuse occurring." Madam Cynthia Mamle Morrison, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection has assured caterers under the Ghana School Feeding Programme(GSFP) that government would soon pay all arrears owed them. She said government had already made GHC186 million payment through the Ghana School Feeding Programme(GSFP) to sustain the programme and asked the caterers to keep faith with government. The Minister said this at Hohoe when she paid a working visit to the Volta Region. She was unhappy that some caterers gave wrong numbers of pupils they were feeding to cheat the system and said auditing was ongoing and such caterers would be dealt with. Dr. Mrs. Gertrude Quashigah, the National Coordinator, Ghana School Feeding Programme(GSFP), said the Programme would continue to train caterers and ensure that children were served nutritious meals at school and urged the caterers to work diligently to justify their engagement. She appealed to them to add fruits to the meals, at least once a week. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The scene of a fire in the Kildress Terrace area of Cookstown Two family homes have been gutted in separate overnight fires in counties Down and Tyrone. PSNI detectives in Mid Ulster are investigating a blaze in Cookstown in which a caravan and house were extensively damaged in an arson attack. Three fire crews from Cookstown and Pomeroy attended the scene of the fire at Kildress Terrace, a remote area around seven miles outside Cookstown. The blaze broke out in the caravan at around 10pm on Thursday and spread to a two-storey mid-terrace house. The fire is believed to have been started deliberately and police are treating the incident as arson endangering life. "We received a report shortly after 10pm that a caravan located in the Kildress Terrace area was on fire and that the blaze had spread to a house close by. "Both the caravan and house were gutted as a result of the blaze. "I want to appeal to anyone who was in the area, between 10pm and 10.05pm and saw what happened, or who has information which may assist our investigation, to call detectives in Mid Ulster on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 1400 of March 21." Meanwhile, over 30 firefighters spent almost three hours battling a blaze in the Lurgan Road area of Banbridge on Thursday around 7.45pm. The NI Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze started in a motorhome in the Weavers Meadow development and spread to a neighbouring two-storey detached house and garage. The occupant of the house, a man in his 60s, was treated at the scene for minor burns but did not attend hospital. The fire service said the incident is being treated as accidental and may have been the result of a gas leak. Unionist politicians last night called for police in the UK and Ireland to investigate evidence given to the Birmingham pub bombings inquest naming four IRA men as the perpetrators of the 1974 atrocities. At the inquest, 'Witness O' named four men he alleged were responsible for the attack, including one who is still alive. He told the court he had been given permission to do so by the current head of the IRA in Dublin. Yesterday, former IRA member Kieran Conway stated that the attacks were "not sanctioned" by the IRA but that the deaths were not murder because they were "an IRA operation that went badly wrong". Read More Lagan Valley MP Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said: "One of the individuals named today has previously admitted involvement in the Birmingham pub bombings. "This further evidence demands a proper police investigation into his involvement in the murder of 21 people. "There is a clear challenge for the authorities in the Republic of Ireland whether they are prepared to pursue justice for the victims of republican terrorism with the same vigour as they demand the pursuit of those who were acting on behalf of the state in Northern Ireland." He added: "The PSNI have previously indicated that the IRA exists but is not involved in paramilitary activity. "That stands in stark contrast to the assertions of Sinn Fein. "[Sinn Fein president] Mary Lou McDonald needs to explain how the head of the IRA in Dublin can give 'permission' for an individual to be named, when she tells us the IRA doesn't exist." Ulster Unionist justice spokesman Doug Beattie MLA also called on the PSNI, Garda and West Midlands Police to examine claims by Witness O. Mr Beattie said: "The evidence from Witness O was very interesting on a number of fronts. "Firstly, he said that the 'head of the IRA' in Dublin has given him permission to name names. "Given that numerous Sinn Fein politicians have claimed that there is no IRA, you wonder just who is sitting in Dublin, claiming to be the head of it?" He said veteran republican Bobby Storey had once stated that the IRA "had become a butterfly and flown away". "So who exactly is at the head of what some claim is a 'non-existent' organisation?" Mr Beattie asked. "The PSNI and the Garda need to give an assessment of this claim as a matter of urgency. "Secondly, if any of these people named are still alive - and I understand at least one is - then they are liable to prosecution. "If Soldier F can be lined up for prosecution for alleged offences in Londonderry in 1972 then so can alleged IRA members for alleged offences in Birmingham in 1974. "That's what is meant by equality before the law." A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "The pub bombings investigation has never closed. Our approach is, where new facts come to light they are scrutinised to see if people can be brought to justice. "The force will never lose sight of the tragic fact that 21 people lost their lives in the atrocities that took place in Birmingham in 1974." A Garda spokesman said: "An Garda Siochana do not comment on named individuals and on matters before the courts in other jurisdictions." Nearly 20,000 people in Northern Ireland have signed a petition for the UK Government to revoke Article 50 and remain in the European Union. The top three local constituencies with the most signatures were all DUP - Emma Little-Pengelly's South Belfast seat (2,802), Gavin Robinson's in East Belfast (1,438) and Lagan Valley (1,291) held by DUP whip Sir Jeffrey Donaldson. As of lunchtime yesterday, out of over three million who had signed the petition on the official Parliament petitions website, 19,183 were from Northern Ireland. For the latest figures click here Those petitions which receive over 100,000 signatures get scheduled for a debate in Parliament. However, Prime Minister Theresa May has said she "will not countenance" revoking Article 50. The Petitions Committee said nearly 2,000 signatures were being completed every minute over lunchtime on Thursday, leading to the website crashing because of unprecedented demand. Many took to social media claiming people who were not UK nationals or UK residents were signing the petition. A House of Commons spokesman said: "Anyone who is a UK resident or a British citizen can sign a petition. "This includes British citizens living overseas." Commons leader Andrea Leadsom dismissed the petition as not being on the same scale as the pro-Brexit vote in the 2016 referendum, which saw 17.4m people vote to take the UK out of the EU. A woman shop worker was threatened with a hammer in a burglary in Garvagh after she confronted them. On Friday night two men broke into the back of Main Street shop at around 10.30pm. They lifted a handbag and as they were leaving were confronted by the woman. She was threatened before the pair made off. Detective Sergeant Robinson said: "Thankfully, there were no reports of any injuries, but staff who were simply doing their job in their place of employment have understandably been left shaken by what must have been a frightening ordeal. "I want to appeal to anyone who was in the Main Street area of Garvagh around 10:25pm and saw two males acting suspiciously, or who has information which may assist our investigation, to contact detectives in Coleraine on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1638 of 22/03/19. "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." Lauren Bullocks dad Martin (right) carries his daughters coffin from the church following funeral Mass at St Patricks Church, Donaghmore Only the slow, solemn toll of a church bell and the gentle patter of rain broke the silence as Lauren Bullock was carried on her final journey. A shaken community lined the main street of Donaghmore to pay their final respects to a young girl who, as a priest said, had too short a time on this earth. Lauren (17) was one of three teenagers killed in the St Patrick's night tragedy in Cookstown. Her funeral heard that, amid the sense of loss, "precious memories" of a "beautiful girl" could never be taken away. The rain fell as the cortege made its way from the family home, turning on to the main street on the short walk to St Patrick's Church. There, tearful friends and family members watched as the pink and white rose-patterned coffin was carried inside. Read More An emotional service heard about Lauren's love of cheerleading, her pet dog Benji, and her warm and infectious personality. Fr David Moore, parish priest of Pomeroy, said March 17, 2019, will always be remembered as the awful day that three beautiful young people, all in the prime of their lives, needlessly died. The mourners included Lauren's parents Martin and Mary, brothers Shane and Ryan, grandparents Martin, Ann-Marie and Joe, and wider family circle. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Sinn Fein Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O'Neill at the funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Sinn Fein Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O'Neill at the funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph A mass booklet from a memorial service in memory of Lauren Bullock rests with floral tributes at the entrance of The Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown Co. Tyrone were three teenagers died on the evening of St Patrick's Day. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Picture date: Tuesday March 19, 2019. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire PA Lauren Bullock Photopress / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald, deputy leader Michelle O'Neill and Archbishop Eamon Martin were also present. So were pupils from Lauren's school, St Patrick's College in Dungannon. Many wore ribbons in the purple colour of the Euphoria All Star Cheerleading NI group that she was a member of. Mourners heard Fr Moore say Lauren could never be forgotten. "One thing that never can be taken from us are our precious memories of your beautiful girl, Lauren," he said. "Lauren has been the essence of a wonderful and caring daughter, sister, grand-daughter, niece to her family and a loyal and caring friend to so many others." The priest described how, at the age of 17, Lauren was already well in the process of making her mark on her home, school, community and wide circle of friends. "She was living the dream, energetic and full of life, doing and enjoying all the things that made her happy," he added. "She was a girl who was happiest when she was doing things to help others and gave of herself and her time to do a good deed whenever and wherever she could." Fr Moore referred to tributes from the young woman's friends, many of whom recalled her warm and bubbly personality and infectious smile. "That's a lovely picture for all of us to have of her in our minds today," he said. Fr Moore said Lauren was an eager and able student at St Patrick's College. He said she had a bright future and so much more to contribute to her community. "Nothing seemed to get Lauren down," he added. "She had such a positive outlook on life and a real zest for living. "Lauren loved people as much as they loved her and was a real 'socialite' with lots of friends and people who admired and looked up to her." One real passion was cheerleading with the Euphoria group, mourners were told. Another was her dog Benji. The order of service featured a treasured family photograph of the two together. Fr Moore said Benji had arrived three years ago as "Lauren's dog". "He was absolute gold dust, her pride and joy," he said. Mourners heard that Lauren had got a part-time job in McDonald's, "keeping the whole of the food outlet in craic, friendship and fun". Fr Moore added: "Lauren has had too short a time on this earth, but for her 17 years of life she has certainly achieved a lot, she used her time well and wisely." He spoke of the "numbness" that tragedy brings, but paid tribute to the people of Donaghmore, Tyrone and further afield, who have had Lauren and the two other victims of last Sunday night, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard, in their prayers. "Since the early hours of Monday morning, there has been a wealth of support and care for the family from the entire Donaghmore community and further afield," he said. He added: "I commend our schools in the locality for all that they have done in ensuring the well-being of all our students as they come to terms with the deaths of Lauren, Connor and Morgan." Archbishop Martin, as he did at the other two funerals, addressed mourners, referring to the "terribly tragic events" of St Patrick's night. As the service drew to a close, a guard of honour formed outside the church. Members of Lauren's cheerleading group held hands as friends from St Patrick's College and neighbouring schools wiped away tears. They watched in anguish as the coffin was carried from the church, once more in perfect silence. Slowly, it made its way back on to the main street, past the village's famous 19th century high cross, towards the cemetery for burial. Archbishop Eamon Martin arriving for the the funeral of Morgan Barnard School friends and family comfort each other outside the church School friends and family comfort each other outside the church School friends and family comfort each other outside the church Maria Barnard, the mother of Morgan Barnard, comforted by his father Jimmy Bradley at the funeral of their son, one of the three victims of a crush at a St Patricks night disco at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown Heartfelt sobbing was almost the only sound that could be heard as the coffin carrying Morgan Barnard on his final journey was placed before the altar ahead of 10am Requiem Mass. Outside, as the heavens opened and heavy rain fell, there were devastating scenes before the service at St Patrick's Church when the schoolboy's mother Maria, weighed down with her grief, had to be helped inside. Up to 2,000 mourners, who had gathered at the chapel yesterday to say their last goodbyes, were told that the St Patrick's Academy pupil would be buried with the school's crest on his heart. Father Aidan McCann, curate of Dungannon and chief celebrant of the Mass, said the special gesture was a mark of love because the 17-year-old student adored his friends and teachers at the school, and they loved him. Read More Morgan, from Springdale in the Co Tyrone town, was one of three teenagers who tragically lost their lives in a crush while queuing for a St Patrick's night disco at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown. Archbishop Eamon Martin also remembered the other two teenage victims of the tragedy - Lauren Bullock (17) and Connor Currie (16) - during a short address at the start of the 70-minute service. The head of the Catholic Church in Ireland told the congregation that "only faith can dare to speak into the darkness of these days to offer a glimmer of light and hope in this valley of tears". "Words fail us at times like this," Archbishop Martin said. "All that really matters and makes a difference is love and friendship and compassion. "The shocking events of last Sunday have reminded us that life is very fragile; we need to cherish every moment and always look out for each other and keep each other safe. "In the days ahead, we will cherish the memories of these precious and gifted young people whose lives have been so suddenly wrenched from among us; we will continue to hold their families, and each other, close in love and faith." Mourners began arriving at the hillside place of worship shortly after 9am, by the time the service began scores of ashen-faced youngsters lined the aisles in tearful reflection. Ahead of Mass, a guard of honour with pupils from St Patrick's Academy and schools in neighbouring Cookstown and Coalisland formed outside as blazers, coats and skirts whirled in the biting wind. In his homily, Fr McCann said that in "these days of tragedy and deep sorrow" he learned that Morgan, who has four siblings - Calvin, Robyn, Reagan and Elyssa - will always be remembered for the smile on his face. "To say that Morgan was well liked would be an understatement," the priest said. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Friends and family of teenager Morgan Barnard attend his funeral in Dungannon. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 22/03/2019 Friends and family of teenager Morgan Barnard attend his funeral in Dungannon this morning. Morgan and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press Mother Maria Barnard is held by her partner James Bradley as they follow the funeral cortege at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon after the funeral of their child, Morgan Barnard. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton The coffin of Morgan Barnard is taken from St Patrick's Church, Dungannon after his funeral. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The coffin of Morgan Barnard is taken into St Patrick's Church, Dungannon for his funeral. Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Mourners at the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The coffin of Morgan Barnard is taken into St Patrick's Church, Dungannon for his funeral. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Catherine McHugh (right), principal of St Patrick's College, Dungannon at the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Catherine McHugh (holding red and whit umbrella), principal of St Patrick's College, Dungannon at the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA PACEMAKER BELFAST 22/03/2019 Principal Catherine McHugh at St Patrick's College with Friends and family of teenager Morgan Barnard attend his funeral in Dungannon this morning. Morgan and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press Archbishop Eamon Martin arriving for the the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Archbishop Eamon Martin arriving for the the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. Pic: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton The funeral cortege arriving at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon for the funeral of Morgan Barnard. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton Mourners gather for funeral of Morgan Barnard. 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton Morgan Barnard, 17, was one of three teenagers killed in a crush outside a St Patricks Day party (St. Patricks Academy Dungannon/PA) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Friends and family of teenager Morgan Barnard attend his funeral in Dungannon. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press "He was a vivacious, charismatic and energetic young man who nobody had a bad word to say about. "Morgan was a person of character who had a great sense of humour with an abundance of wit; always a smile on his face. "You could never pass him on the corridor in school and no doubt anywhere else without getting a warm look or a quick joke as he passed." Fr McCann added: "He loved the academy, his friends and teachers there; and the academy loved him, too - and so it is fitting and very moving that he is buried wearing the academy crest on his heart." Extending his sympathies to Morgan's mother, who is 17 weeks pregnant, and father Jimmy, Fr McCann said the new baby "will know his or her brother by the stories of love they will hear about him". Following the readings, Morgan's 16-year-old cousin Elliot Barnard said a short, emotional prayer of the faithful. Breaking down in tears, he promised the two of them would always share a special bond. "Morgan was my best friend and no matter where he is, he'll always be my best friend and I'll love him forever," Elliot said. Gifts brought up and placed on the altar included a framed photograph of Morgan wearing his school uniform, a PlayStation console and a black pocket-sized 2018/19 diary. Throughout the service, attended by Sinn Fein MP Michelle Gildernew, the sound of intermittent crying pervaded as pupils struggled to deal with their profound pain. Shortly before Mass ended, thunderous applause rang out after Sean McLaughlin struggled through his emotions to read a poem in Irish, dedicated to his friend Morgan, from the altar. "How short your life and abrupt your death," he said. "Your lovely face, so well known, now among the angels." As the funeral cortege went onwards to Carland Road cemetery for Morgan's burial, many pupils stopped to hug each other. Then, at the graveside, his broken-hearted mum Maria, shattered by sorrow, was helped away. Ireland is fighting a rear-guard action to ensure there is no return to a hard border in the event of a disorderly Brexit. Informal conversations have taken place between Irish officials and the EU Commission over how to turn Northern Ireland into a special case. Both the EU and Ireland believe the main responsibility for preventing checks on goods travelling between the Republic and Northern Ireland lies with the UK Government. However, behind the closed doors at this weeks EU summit, German Chancellor Angela Merkel noted there is now a serious risk of a no-deal outcome. And she called on the EUs chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier to explore a fall-back plan to uphold the Good Friday Agreement. Speaking publicly, Mrs Merkel said EU leaders were trying to avoid a new border on the island of Ireland. At the end of fraught two-day summit, one EU official was quoted as saying it was the "first time leaders tried to crystallise what a no-deal means". Tanaiste Simon Coveney on Friday night confirmed for the first time that there had been "conversations" around how to prevent a border if the UK crashes out on April 12. However, he denied there had been "formal discussion or negotiation as to how it would work". Family and Friends carry the Coffin of Alice Morrow into Roselawn crematorum. Family and Friends of Alice Morrow gather outside Roselawn as her remains arrive. The Hearse carrying the coffin of Alice Morrow arrives at Roselawn. Family and Friends carry the Coffin of Alice Morrow into Roselawn crematorum. The funeral of murdered east Belfast woman Alice Morrow took place on Friday afternoon. Ms Morrow was found dead in her home in Whincroft Way in the Braniel estate on Sunday March 10. William Hutchinson (42), from Kilbroney House in east Belfast, appeared before Belfast Magistrates Court last Thursday charged with her murder. Her funeral cortege departed from her mother's home in Belvoir Drive for a funeral service at Roselawn Crematorium. Ms Morrow was the daughter of Roy and Maggie, mother to Glen and Kelly-Anne, and had three grandchildren, a funeral notice stated. Her family has asked for donations to be made in lieu if desired to Women's Aid. The coffin of Alice Morrow is carried in for the funeral service The family of a murdered Belfast grandmother have paid tribute at her funeral to a woman who had "a heart of gold". Alice Morrow (53) was found dead in her flat at Whincroft Way in the Braniel estate on Sunday, March 10. The man accused of her murder, William Hutchinson (42), from Kilbroney House in east Belfast, is next due to appear in court by video link on April 15. Over 200 people attended Ms Morrow's funeral service in Roselawn Crematorium on a rainy afternoon yesterday. The mourners stood as a specially requested hymn was played at the beginning of the ceremony. Speaking on behalf of the family, a relative named Craig said the mother of three and grandmother of three had already suffered tragedy twice in her "rollercoaster" life. "Alice was always a bit of a rebel. Constantly in and out of harmless mischief and trouble," he said. He spoke of one humorous occasion when, as a child, her hyperactive nature saw the family keep her still by attaching her jumper to the back door. "Two reasons, it kept her out of trouble, and my granny and granda knew where she was," he said. "In her teenage years she met her partner of mischief and harmless pranks, who she later went on to marry, David Morrow, also known as DJ." Ms Morrow had her first child, Glen, at 17, followed by Kelly-Anne and her "blue-eyed boy" Stuart. "There were many ups and downs in Alice's life, it was like a rollercoaster. "Two of the darkest times in Alice's life were the loss of her brother Colin and her husband DJ. "No one would ever come close," he told the mourners. "Even then Alice, as the person she was, gained another 'son', Christopher (Colin's son), and she made absolutely no difference between him and her own children." The mourners heard how Ms Morrow adored her three grandchildren, Ben, Tegan and Jessica. "The grandkids actually got jealous of each other," the relative said. "One time Ben threw all of Tegan's photos out of the window of Alice's flat." He continued: "As we go on, Alice was a troubled woman who had her own problems but had a heart of gold. "When it came to lost causes that everyone else was to give up on, Alice saw the potential. "Be it in partners, dogs or her beloved Peugeot 106. "I believe (her son) Glen offered to upgrade her car a few times. She named it Jinxie which shows you how close it was to her." Turning to the nature of her death, he said tragedy struck "in her own home where she should have felt safest". "As a family, we now take comfort in knowing she is safe with her husband DJ and her brother Colin, who she called Snowball," he said. "Alice now knows the answer to the question she longed for her whole life - what happens after life on earth, finally at peace." Pastor Sam McIlwrath from Forestside Church led yesterday's service. "This large gathering here today is an expression of your love and appreciation for Alice," he said. "We were all very saddened by the very serious, sudden and unexpected death of dear Alice and we're appalled at the tragic circumstances that accompanied her death. "It was unwelcomed and undesirable," he added. Ms Morrow first attended Forestside Church 20 years ago. Pastor McIlwrath said he had lost touch with her over the years but she had made contact again earlier this month. "As I left my home in Belvoir a car drove past and pulled in and stopped," he told the mourners. "I didn't recognise her at first. "I got a sense after a brief conversation that she was trying to sort things out (in her life) sincerely. "I asked her about her faith. I have a strong impression she indicated she was intending to get her relationship with her Lord put right. "Just a few days before she had visited our church and had a conversation with my daughter-in-law indicating that same sense of spiritual desire. "That gives me hope." As the service ended, the Bob Marley track Everything's Gonna Be Alright played. The family had asked for donations to be made in lieu of flowers, if desired, to the charity Women's Aid. Ms Morrow's murder occurred just days after the unrelated deaths of a mother and daughter in their own home. Giselle Marimon-Herrera (37) and her daughter Allison (15) were found dead in their flat at Glin Ree Court in Newry on March 7. Police believe Giselle's partner, Russell Steele (38), strangled them before taking his own life. A joint funeral service for Giselle and Allison was also held in Roselawn only three hours after Ms Morrow's service. Speaking earlier this month, SDLP justice spokesperson, Dolores Kelly MLA, said the deaths were an "outrage beyond comprehension". "We all have a duty to ensure that we do not become desensitised to these horrific murders, where women are being killed in what should always be a safe space, their own home," she said. "As a society we must speak up and speak out against all types of violence, but in particular domestic violence, which can too easily be hidden and swept under a rug." Nine men have been charged with various offences after police raids targeting loyalist paramilitaries in Belfast. Officers from the PSNI's Paramilitary Crime Task Force seized drugs, cash and expensive cars and jewellery in an operation on Friday morning it described as targeting "the criminal activities of the UVF". A total of 14 searches were conducted in Belfast, Newtownards and Comber and 11 suspects, aged between 22 and 48, taken into police custody for questioning. Four men aged 22, 27, 29 and 38 are to appear in court on Saturday charged with drugs offences. Four other men aged 32, 47 and two both aged 48, have also been charged with being concerned in the supply of a Class A controlled drug and are due to appear at Belfast Magistrates' Court on April 18. A 34-year-old man has been charged with unlawfully obtaining of/disclosure of personal data and will also appear at Belfast Magistrates' Court on April 18. A 32-year-old man arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class A controlled drug with intent to supply has been released on bail pending further enquiries. And a 40-year-old man arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class B controlled drug, intimidation and improper use of electronic communications has been released to be reported to the Public Prosecution Service. As is normal procedure all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service. Mr Mohammed Iddrisu Ngmenipuo, a Commodities Exchange Analyst, on Friday commended Government for setting-up the Ghana Commodities Exchange (GCX). The decision of Government to take promoter risk in rolling-out the exchange platform is highly commended, since the operational system can be considered as an economic infrastructure that Government needs to invest in, Mr Ngmenipuo told the Ghana News Agency in an interview in Accra. He said the commodities exchanges and related Warehouse Receipt System (WRS) are the highest form of free enterprise as its performance impacts all consumers. Tracing the genesis of the development of the commodities exchange in the country, Mr Ngmenipuo said: our research shows that among others, a private company, Commodity Clearing House Limited (CCHL) started the promotion of the exchange and warehouse receipt system, as far back as 1993. He said at the same period, the CCHL served as a member of the Ghana Futures Exchange Committee (GFE) Standing Committee, which included the Bank of Ghana, Securities and Exchange Commission, Ghana Stock Exchange, and other bodies for the promotion of the development of commodities and financial futures markets in Ghana. Mr Ngmenipuo said the GFEs Standing Committee represented Ghana at the SAFEXs 10th anniversary, which was held under the theme: Commodity Markets and Derivatives, as a capacity building and sensitization exercise for the development of the markets in the country. In 2000, CCHL co-sponsored and jointly funded with the Bank of Ghana (BoG), a programme that sent two senior staff of the Bank to visit SAFEX in South Africa for two weeks, to build the capacity of the Bank in the commodities trade and risk management and related financial markets. He said on completion of the programme and a workshop, sponsored by the company for the Bank and the commodities industry actors; a provisional license was issued by the BoG to CCHL to present a business model and a legal framework for the implementation of the companys proprietary commodity finance scheme, under conditions to be set by the Central Bank. Mr Ngmenipuo said after investing a lot of money to develop the business model and related legal framework, as per the requirements of the BoG, the documents were presented in 2002, within the required timeframe. He said a meeting was organized in 2004, chaired by the then Governor of the BoG, and in attendance, were representatives of the Minister of Finance, the Director General and Deputy Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, together with the Directors and advisors of the Company. Consequently, it was then agreed that the legal framework for the scheme, as presented, required that the proposed scheme be regulated under the Securities Industry Law (SIL). The project was to be moved to, and be supervised by the SEC under the SIL, with a suggested new name Ghana Commodities Exchange, as a self-regulated organization. Mr Ngmenipuo said a Working Committee was set up between the Central Bank and the SEC for the transfer of capacity acquired and to oversee the implementation of the project. He said a company, Ghana Commodity Exchange, was formed and registered by the CCHL and applied to the SEC for license for operating a commodities exchange, using a modified business model of the companys scheme. The SEC requested authority from the Ministry of Finance to develop the necessary regulatory framework. The then Finance Minister responded to SEC, advising the latter to develop the necessary regulatory framework for a commodities exchange, he said. In addition, the Ministry of Finance set up a Technical Committee for the development of a GCX, chaired by a Deputy Minister, and the Special Advisor to the Senior Minister in 2004, with the company as a member. Mr Ngmenipuo said it is on record that, as a result of a request from the CCHL, the Ministry of Finance included a draft prepared by the CCHL, development of regulated warehouse receipt system, in the 2004 Annual Budget which empowered the SEC to develop the regulatory framework. It is noteworthy that, the World Bank provided a grant to the SEC thereafter for a study of the feasibility of a commodities exchange and related warehouse receipt system in Ghana, he said. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Police have issued a public appeal to have trace the whereabouts of a Co Down man. Detectives from PSNI Public Protection Branch said they would like to speak with 24-year-old Casey Morgan. Detective Inspector Thompson said: Detectives from the PSNI Public Protection Branch would like to speak with Casey in relation to suspected breach of a violent offences prevention order and breach of bail. We believe he may regularly frequent the Ballynahinch area. If members of the public see Mr Morgan, I would urge them not to approach him but to ring 999. Any other information can be conveyed to Police by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 11 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime. An ATM was ripped from the wall of a bank on the Mallusk Road in Newtownabbey in the early hours of Friday An ATM was ripped from the wall of a bank on the Mallusk Road in Newtownabbey in the early hours of Friday A van and possible ATM machine were found in a field off the Carnaghliss Road. Pic Google Maps Police have found what they believe to be a stolen cash machine in a burnt out van in a field in Co Antrim. The discovery was made in the Carnaghliss Road area of Crumlin on Saturday morning. The burnt out Transit-type van contained the remnants of an ATM. Police said their investigations were at an early stage, but the find comes after a spate of cash-machine robberies in recent weeks. The PSNI established a special team to investigate the thefts after concerns from retail bodies it could lead to the facilities being removed. Read More In the most recent incident a stolen digger was used to take a cash machine out of the wall of a Danske Bank branch on the Mallusk Road in Newtownabbey in the early hours of Friday. The branch is closed until further notice, Danske Bank said. Substantial damage was caused to the building as a result of the incident. Police believe the digger was stolen from a business a short distance away. It was set on fire at the scene immediately after the theft. Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts has said there is a concern if businesses start to remove machines it could cut off rural communities from access to cash. He urged businesses to be vigilant particularly if they are near building sites with diggers and for contractors to review security of building sites. Detective Sergeant Lyttle added: "We received a report shortly before 11.30am on Saturday a burnt out Transit-type van, containing what appears to be the remnants of an ATM machine, was discovered in a field in the Carnaghliss Road area. It's believed the fire occurred sometime last night (Friday 22 March) around 10.30pm. NIFRS attended and have ruled this to be deliberate ignition. "Our enquiries are at an early stage, and we are working to establish where the vehicle and machine were stolen from. "I am appealing to anyone who was in the Carnaghliss Road area last night - between 10pm and 10:35pm - and saw any suspicious activity to call us. Anyone with information they believe may assist our investigation is asked to phone detectives in Antrim on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference number 406 of 23/03/19. Expand Close An ATM was ripped from the wall of a bank on the Mallusk Road in Newtownabbey in the early hours of Friday / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp An ATM was ripped from the wall of a bank on the Mallusk Road in Newtownabbey in the early hours of Friday "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." Police have pledged to track down and arrest those behind fake Facebook profiles trolling those killed in the Greenvale Hotel St Patrick's Day tragedy. The PSNI said it was inundated with complaints after fake social media profiles were set up on Facebook and Instagram in the names of the teenagers killed. It is understood they have since been set to private and renamed. Read More Users on Facebook said the profiles broadcast videos accompanied with a "disgusting" narration about the tragedy. There was widespread revulsion as word of the profiles spread. Many feared those closed to the teenagers would see the content. "Im beyond words," said one Facebook user. "Who in the right mind could do such a thing, please get the accounts taken off. They keep making new ones. Its a disgrace. The families dont need this, its so sad and so disrespectful." Just hours after the three teenagers, 17-year-old Morgan Barnard, Lauren Bullock (17) and 16-year-old Connor Currie were laid to rest police posted on Facebook to say they were aware of the accounts and were working to identify those individuals behind them. Thousands lined the streets of Tyrone and the community came to a standstill to pay its respects to the families and their families and friends. Officers urged the public not to share the posts but instead report them to both the police and the social media company. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Funeral of 16-year-old Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church in Edendork, Co. Tyrone. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 22nd March 2019 Funeral of 16-year-old Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church in Edendork, Co. Tyrone. Connor died along with Morgan Barnard(17) and 17-year-old Lauren Bullock after an incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown on St Patrick's night. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com The hearse arrives at the funeral of Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church, Edendork. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The coffin arrives for the funeral of Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church, Edendork. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Friends and family of teenager Conor Currie attend his funeral in Edendork this morning. Conor and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Mourners attend the funeral of Connor Currie. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph PACEMAKER BELFAST 22/03/2019 Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill and Mary Lou McDonald attend the funeral of Conor Currie in Edendork this morning. Conor and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 22/03/2019 Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill and Mary Lou McDonald attend the funeral of Conor Currie in Edendork this morning. Conor and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Connor Currie Photopress / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Funeral of 16-year-old Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church in Edendork, Co. Tyrone. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com "The individuals behind such disgusting behaviour feed on publicity," they said. However, many criticised police for themselves highlighting the posts and "adding fuel to the fire". Police responded: "We received a huge number of reports about this. The post was put out to reassure those who were understandably upset about it that we were aware and we were also dealing with it. Any comments naming the account were removed. "Its always going to be a fine balancing act. Keep people updated/offer advice and the complaint is we 'shouldnt be saying anything'. Dont keep people updated/offer advice and the complaint is 'we arent doing anything'." Superintendent Mike Baird added: "Police are aware of a number of social media posts in relation to the tragedy in Cookstown on St Patrick's night. "It is disgusting to think that anyone would make light of such a tragedy in which three young people so sadly lost their lives. "Enquiries are continuing and I would appeal to anyone who has information about these posts to call us on the non emergency number 101. "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." Police are investigating the incident at the door of the Greenvale Hotel on Sunday evening. Two people were arrested in connection with the incident and later released. Facebook has been contacted for comment. DUP MP Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has told the Fine Gael party conference he would like to see Ireland join the Commonwealth. Sir Jeffrey received a round of applause when he mentioned the idea in Co Wexford on Saturday. This wont get agreement with everyone here, he said. The Commonwealth is a place where Ireland's voice should be heard and I would like to see that happenSir Jeffrey Donaldson I do hope we can come to a day when the Republic of Ireland will join with many other nations in the Commonwealth of nations and recognising, whatever our history, and whatever differences there have been in the past, that weve overcome a lot of diversity in the past in dealing with those issues, and I think it would be good in dealing with that. The Commonwealth is a place where Irelands voice should be heard and I would like to see that happen. The Republic of Ireland was a member of the Commonwealth until April 1949 when The Republic of Ireland Act 1948, came into force, severing all formal ties with the British Crown. The idea of Ireland rejoining the Commonwealth has been prominently supported by Fine Gael Senator Frank Feighan, who Sir Jeffrey referenced a number of times. Mr Feighan argues membership would promote Irelands values on a global stage and strengthen economic relations internationally. The event, hosted by Young Fine Gael, brought Sir Jeffrey as well as Alliance Party leader Naomi Long and SDLP MLA Claire Hanna to discuss north-south relations. A round of applause at the Fine Gael conference for Jeffrey Donaldson who was thanked in particular for attending. pic.twitter.com/RoBGSYkDsS aoife moore. (@aoifegracemoore) March 23, 2019 Sir Jeffrey spoke at length about his partys wish to be good neighbours to the Republic of Ireland, despite tense Brexit negotiations. There is no ulterior motive in unionism that says we can use Brexit to prevent this or prevent that, in terms of increased, enhanced cooperation in our common good, he said. We need to ensure that people are comfortable where they are, we need to address the issues around the backstop in particular, but its about developing the new relationship. The UK has taken a decision, that decision has to be respected but it doesnt mean we cant continue to build those north-south and internal relationships, and that is the challenge for all of us. We do not see Brexit as some kind of a vehicle to undermine those relationships, and what we do in taking Brexit forward is important and we move forward on the basis of co-operation. Sir Jeffrey was also pressed on his partys use of the petition of concern in the Stormont Assembly to block a vote on marriage equality. He pointed out the DUP no longer have enough to members to have the majority for a petition of concern, and that it may no longer be a problem if there was a Northern Ireland executive. Relatives and friends comfort each other as the remains of Giselle and Allison Marimon-Herrera arrive at Roselawn crematorium Relatives and friends comfort each other as the remains of Giselle and Allison Marimon-Herrera arrive at Roselawn crematorium The remains of Giselle and Allison Marimon-Herrera arrive at Roselawn crematorium There were emotional scenes yesterday as the words of a teenager who was murdered alongside her mother were read out at their funeral. Giselle Marimon-Herrera (37) and her 15-year-old daughter Allison were found dead at a flat in the Glin Ree Court area of Newry on March 7. It's believed their pet chihuahua was also killed in the attack. Ms Marimon's partner Russell Steele (38), originally from Kilmarnock, was found hanged in the flat and police believe he killed himself after strangling both women. Her parents and sister travelled from Colombia to attend the committal service at Roselawn Crematorium yesterday afternoon. The tearful family were also joined by many of Allison's class mates. The coffins of mother and daughter sat with white flowers on top as the service was conducted in both English and Spanish. Originally from Colombia, Ms Marimon-Herrera had lived in Northern Ireland for four years. Her daughter was born in Spain but moved to join her mother in 2017. She attended Newry High School. A priest conducting the service in English and Spanish welcomed the family members. "We come on this very sad occasion indeed with the immediate family of Giselle and Allison," he said. "We're confused, we're saddened and we're in Lent. "But we journey through the darkness of these days towards Easter, the light." School principal Iestyn Brown told mourners that Allison had been a "cheerful, courteous, well-mannered, kind, lovely young lady". At school she had taken on a caring role to support a new student who had joined on an exchange programme. "Allison had been like a big sister and supported Sofia," Mr Brown said. "It's really hard for me to stand in front of you and try and sum up what Allison was all about and what was important to her. "So I'm going to cheat slightly and I'm going to let Allison tell you what was important to her." Reading from an assignment called 'all about me', Mr Brown shared an insight into the teenager's close bond with her mother. Under the first heading of 'what I do', she wrote: "I miss Spain a lot, so I watch Spanish television, I really like it. "I love arriving home from school, doing my homework while watching Spanish television. "I feel like I'm in Spain." Her assignment continued: "I like to draw, I like to cook, to go to the cinema, to go to the fair. To me, the best fairs are those in Spain. "Above all, the best moments (are with) my mother." Asked to write about 'how I am', she said: "I'm quite perfectionist, I like to do things well. "I'm calm, I love the people around me. I try to be happy with a few things that I value very much, the little things. "For the most wonderful person is my mother and I love her, I love her very much. Also my family, I miss them and they are very important to me." Mr Brown then held up the writing, showing a self portrait Allison had drawn at the bottom. Sharing his own memory, he said: "One day I saw Allison and Sofia talk at 9,000 miles an hour in a language I couldn't understand. As the bell went they said 'adios' to each other as they were going to separate classes. "I said adios back and they both beamed a lovely smile. It's that smile that we've been talking about over the past couple of weeks in school." He added that Allison was "exceptionally wise, calm and sweet but also stubborn". "She had opinions, she was happy to share them, but she was always respectful, well mannered and polite in how she delivered them," he said. "As a school community we're going to miss the lovely little light touches that Allison brought to us all every day." Last week, the family thanked a number of fundraisers who have helped to raise 11,000 to help the family in Colombia. In a statement released through the PSNI, they said they wished to "thank the people of Newry for the kindness shown to them at this very sad time. "They would also like to thank everyone who made donations to help them in their hour of need." Police have said they are treating domestic violence as a major line of enquiry, after reports that Steele was a disruptive and aggressive neighbour who was known to them. Scottish Pastor Burt Garrick, of the Central Evangelical Church in Kilmarnock, also sent a message of sympathy to the family after online footage showed Steele singing in the choir. "He would have been an occasional attender some five or six years ago," he said at the time. "I only came here four years ago so never met him personally; he has not been back here in my time at the church. "This has been a very tragic situation and on behalf of the people of Kilmarnock I extend sympathies to the families of those who have lost their lives." The funeral details for Steele remain unknown at present. His brother said he had mental health problems but still called him an "absolute gentleman" and "one in a million". Earlier this month, demonstrators at International Women's Day voiced their anger by remembering the mother and daughter with a minute's noise. The double funeral was held only hours after a service for another woman who was killed in her own home. Alice Morrow (53) was found dead in her flat in east Belfast on March 10. A touching watercolour tribute to the victims of the Greenvale Hotel tragedy has been praised by St Patricks Academy the school two of the victims attended. It was painted by Emma NicGabhann (23), a nurse from Northern Ireland whos now working in London. Emma told the Belfast Telegraph: I never expected it to have such feedback. Im glad that those both directly and indirectly affected have all been so touched and moved by the painting. It seems to have brought about some comfort through these difficult days. "Are you all ok? We have to look after each other, don't we?" As we sat in the back pews of our chapel in Donaghmore waiting for the cortege of 17-year-old Lauren Bullock to arrive, Archbishop Eamon Martin gently stopped at every row and in a quiet whisper said words of comfort to waiting mourners. Outside the chapel, hundreds of silent people, too numb with sorrow to speak, lined the street in our beautiful village of Donaghmore as the ancient cross of St Patrick, that stands so proudly, watched over them. Young people formed an extensive guard of honour wearing uniforms representing schools from all over the district. Read More Lauren's friends passed round ribbons of purple which teenagers pinned to their jackets - a touching tribute to the girl who loved to dance in her favourite colour. It has been a week of silence and whispers in Tyrone; a week of disbelief, of shock and tears. It has been a week that will change the meaning of St Patrick's Day for us all for a very long time. Our local GAA club in Donaghmore is named after our patron saint. So is our chapel, our primary school and the two schools where Lauren, Morgan and Connor attended in nearby Dungannon until they, as our parish priest Fr Moore said, "were overpowered literally in the mad rush of the modern world and needlessly lost their lives". Everyone knows by now that Sunday night turned out to be one of horror for the young people who attended what was supposed to be a night of celebration, fun and dance at the Greenvale. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Friends and family of teenager Morgan Barnard attend his funeral in Dungannon. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 22/03/2019 Friends and family of teenager Morgan Barnard attend his funeral in Dungannon this morning. Morgan and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press Mother Maria Barnard is held by her partner James Bradley as they follow the funeral cortege at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon after the funeral of their child, Morgan Barnard. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends pictured as the coffin leaves St Patricks Church in Dungannon after paying respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day . Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton The coffin of Morgan Barnard is taken from St Patrick's Church, Dungannon after his funeral. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The coffin of Morgan Barnard is taken into St Patrick's Church, Dungannon for his funeral. Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Mourners at the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The coffin of Morgan Barnard is taken into St Patrick's Church, Dungannon for his funeral. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Catherine McHugh (right), principal of St Patrick's College, Dungannon at the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Catherine McHugh (holding red and whit umbrella), principal of St Patrick's College, Dungannon at the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA PACEMAKER BELFAST 22/03/2019 Principal Catherine McHugh at St Patrick's College with Friends and family of teenager Morgan Barnard attend his funeral in Dungannon this morning. Morgan and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press Archbishop Eamon Martin arriving for the the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Archbishop Eamon Martin arriving for the the funeral of Morgan Barnard at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon. Pic: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton The funeral cortege arriving at St Patrick's Church, Dungannon for the funeral of Morgan Barnard. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton Mourners gather for funeral of Morgan Barnard. 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton 22nd March 2019 Family and friends gather at St Patricks Church in Dungannon to pay respects to teenager Morgan Barnard who sadly passed away in a tragic accident on St Patricks day Mandatory Credit :Stephen Hamilton Stephen Hamilton Morgan Barnard, 17, was one of three teenagers killed in a crush outside a St Patricks Day party (St. Patricks Academy Dungannon/PA) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Friends and family of teenager Morgan Barnard attend his funeral in Dungannon. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press Monday brought deep shock as the news slowly sank in, and as the days that led up to the funerals for all three young people ticked by, our community walked around quietly, tip-toeing beneath a dark cloud of pain and disbelief. The roads seemed quieter this week. People huddled in supermarkets, shaking heads, patting shoulders, wondering how on earth life could be so cruel that three youngsters on a night out could be so tragically taken from this world. Books of condolence were opened across mid-Ulster to give those who didn't know what to say but who just wanted to say something a chance to put down their feelings on paper, hoping their words might bring some sense of comfort to the bereaved. TV crews and media from all over Ireland and the UK descended on the quiet streets of our village and in our neighbouring towns of Cookstown and Dungannon. Everyone could feel in the air that something had changed. Something awful had happened. Something just wasn't right. Our schools have been incredible this week and will continue to do sterling work for all those affected for many weeks and months to come. Teachers and staff have truly stepped up and gone way beyond duty, leaving no stone unturned for all the students struggling to comprehend how three of their peers will no longer take the school bus with them, will no longer pass them in the corridor or sit with them in class or in the canteen. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Sinn Fein Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O'Neill at the funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Sinn Fein Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O'Neill at the funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph A mass booklet from a memorial service in memory of Lauren Bullock rests with floral tributes at the entrance of The Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown Co. Tyrone were three teenagers died on the evening of St Patrick's Day. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Picture date: Tuesday March 19, 2019. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire PA Lauren Bullock Photopress / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The funeral of Lauren Bullock takes place St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) They will no longer laugh with them, or share the dread of exams, or look forward in anticipation to a new weekend and all it will bring. A glimmer of hope has splintered through the darkness though in the offers of help that continue to come from absolutely anyone who can make these teens feel even a tiny bit better. Parents of those who were at the disco and who did return home on Sunday, like me, will have locked their doors at bedtime each night this week with a sigh of relief, but also with a deep sense of dread and fear at how it could have been their son or daughter who perished in such an unexplainable way. But at the forefront of all of our minds each minute of every day have always been the parents and families of Connor, Lauren and Morgan who within a three-mile radius of our own home, were leaving their doors open day after day this week as the community rallied round to lend support to them in their darkest hours. Archbishop Eamon reminded us yesterday that "all that really matters, and makes a difference is love and friendship and compassion. And only faith can dare to speak into the darkness of these days to offer a glimmer of light and hope in this valley of tears". We have to look after each other, don't we? Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Funeral of 16-year-old Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church in Edendork, Co. Tyrone. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 22nd March 2019 Funeral of 16-year-old Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church in Edendork, Co. Tyrone. Connor died along with Morgan Barnard(17) and 17-year-old Lauren Bullock after an incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown on St Patrick's night. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com The hearse arrives at the funeral of Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church, Edendork. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The coffin arrives for the funeral of Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church, Edendork. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday March 22, 2019. Teenagers Lauren Bullock, Connor Currie and Morgan Barnard died after a crush at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, on Sunday. See PA story ULSTER Cookstown. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Friends and family of teenager Conor Currie attend his funeral in Edendork this morning. Conor and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Mourners attend the funeral of Connor Currie. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph PACEMAKER BELFAST 22/03/2019 Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill and Mary Lou McDonald attend the funeral of Conor Currie in Edendork this morning. Conor and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 22/03/2019 Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill and Mary Lou McDonald attend the funeral of Conor Currie in Edendork this morning. Conor and two others were killed in a tragic accident at the Greenvale Hotel on St Patricks night. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Connor Currie takes place St Malachy's Church, Edendork on March 22nd 2019 following a crushing incident at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Connor Currie Photopress / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Funeral of 16-year-old Connor Currie at St Malachy's Church in Edendork, Co. Tyrone. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com Simple words, but oh so powerful and never so meaningful to our community as they are today, and will be for many days to come. An ATM was ripped from the wall of a bank on the Mallusk Road in Newtownabbey in the early hours of Friday An ATM was ripped from the wall of a bank on the Mallusk Road in Newtownabbey in the early hours of Friday Businesses with an external ATM across Northern Ireland have been urged to be vigilant after a digger was used to steal a machine from a bank in Newtownabbey. The cash machine was removed from the wall of a Danske Bank branch on the Mallusk Road in the early hours of Friday. It comes after a spate of ATM robberies across Northern Ireland which prompted the PSNI to set up a special team of detectives to investigate them. Substantial damage was caused to the building as a result of the incident. Police believe the digger was stolen from a business a short distance away. It was set on fire at the scene immediately after the theft. Detective Chief Inspector David Henderson said: "I am appealing to anyone who was in the area of Mallusk Road between 2.30am and 3.30am and who witnessed what happened, or anyone who has any information which could assist our investigation, to contact police on 101 quoting reference 163 22/03/19." DUP MLA Pam Cameron said the actions were "reprehensible and reckless". She said: "Many depend on this bank for business and day-to-day needs. "Criminal activity like this is simply not acceptable." SDLP Councillor Thomas Burns said this type of theft "robs the entire community". "The impact extends far beyond the damage of the bank. It depletes the finances of local services and deters new business from investing in the area." Retail NI chief Glyn Roberts urged "all businesses who have external ATMs to be vigilant, particularly if they are near building sites with diggers. "Retail NI would also urge building contractors to review the security of their sites." A spokesman for Danske Bank said the branch would be closed until further notice as the investigation continues. A DUP MP is to be a "surprise" guest speaker at Fine Gaels annual conference in Wexford this weekend, it has been revealed. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is to take part in a debate with other Northern Ireland politicians and Tanaiste Simon Coveney. He has previously clashed heavily with the Irish government and in particular Taoiseach Leo Varadkar who he accused of playing politics with the Good Friday Agreement. It also comes after the DUP made their latest attempt to kill off the Brexit deal which the Irish government desperately wants to be approved in Westminster next week. Earlier the DUPs Nigel Dodds said the Brexit extension negotiated by British Prime Minister Theresa May with EU leaders amounted to a disappointment and inexcusable failure. "Lectures by the Prime Minister putting the blame on others cannot disguise the responsibility her government bears for the current debacle and the fact that her agreement has been twice overwhelmingly rejected," Mr Dodds said. The session Mr Donaldson will take part in is being hosted by Young Fine Gael is titled "North-South relations into the future". Other panellists include the leader of the Alliance Party, Naomi Long and former SDLP MLA Claire Hanna who stood down from her positions in the party over their recent partnership with Fianna Fail. The topics being discussed include the lack of an functioning executive in Northern Ireland. The agenda for the Fine Gael conference is heavily focused on Brexit. Another special guest is the European People Partys candidate to be the next president of the European Commission Manfred Weber. After Thursday's agreement to delay Brexit, Britain's EU withdrawal is taking place to a new timetable. So what happens next? March 23: Large crowds of Brexit opponents are expected to throng the streets of London for a Put It To The People march demanding a second referendum. March 25: Parliament debates an amendable Government motion on the Brexit deal, which gives MPs a chance to put their favoured outcomes to a vote. Mrs May's effective deputy David Lidington has promised a process for MPs to debate potential Brexit outcomes over the following two weeks. March 26: Possible date for the third 'meaningful vote' - known in Westminster as MV3 - on Mrs May's Withdrawal Agreement. Downing Street says that no date is fixed for the vote, which must come by the end of the week. March 27: MPs led by Sir Oliver Letwin hope to seize control of parliamentary time to force votes on Brexit options. March 29: No longer Brexit day. April 12: If Mrs May has failed to secure Commons support for her Withdrawal Agreement, this is the final day on which the UK can set out its next steps to the European Council. If it does not do so, the UK would leave the EU without a deal. May 22: If the Commons has approved Mrs May's deal, the UK formally leaves the EU on this date with a Withdrawal Agreement, entering a transition period. December 31, 2020: If the UK has left with a deal, this will be the end of the transition period. President Akufo-Addo has tasked the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Creative Arts and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to build on what he described as the pan-African legacy of Ghanas early leaders. He made the call in a statement read on his behalf by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, at the 15th edition of the Ghana Tourism Awards on Friday, March 22, 2019. According to the president, the pan-African legacy of our early leaders has never been in doubt and I have tasked the ministry and the Tourism Authority to build on this legacy and make Ghana a true heritage pilgrimage destination for our brothers and sisters from the diaspora. He described the tourism sector as one of the most important sectors of the Ghanaian economy and spoke about the interventions his administration has put in place to further develop the sector. He said, Under my watch, the tourism sector is receiving the needed push with the elevation of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to cabinet status. The Tourism Authority has reported gains and growth across several indices visitor arrivals, per capita spend of visitors, number of establishments, number of tourists facilities etc since we assumed the reins of government. The president explained that I am also aware of several tourist sites improvement programs such as the Axim Fort St. Antonio project, Assin Manso Slave River project, Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm, Bunso Aboretrem, Kintampo waterfalls and the Elmina Heritage Bay project. He added that this with the ongoing destination single window automation programme and the marketing programmes Visit Ghana, See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana and Feel Ghana are all part of integral plans to transform the sector. According to him, The ongoing $40 million World Bank Tourism development programme is also an added bonus to this drive to make our tourism sector grow. Mr. Akufo-Addo stressed that tourism is a multi-sector industry and the various other sectors roads, skills development, sanitation, aviation and the visa regime are all being tackled in a multi-sectoral way for the needed impact. He indicated that the theme chosen for todays event, celebrating our heritage resonates with the Year of Return project which I proudly launched infront of the Congressional Black Caucus of the United States Congress, in September 2018. He added that as we celebrate the award winners, it must be a clarion call for all of us within the sector and its value chain to be ready for the takeoff. Source: Daily Guide 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 Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall visit the House of Chocolate (Chris Jackson/PA) The Prince of Wales emulated Charlie in the chocolate factory when he visited a chocolate producer in Grenada. The prince and his wife were given a colossal hamper full of goodies to mark their visit to House of Chocolate in the capital St Georges, which produces an array of sweet treats. Charles eyed up the chocolate liqueurs joking: I might have to try some of that on the way back! Chocolate educator Magdalena Field told the couple the story of how chocolate is made. Expand Close Charles and Camilla were told the story of how chocolate is made (Chris Jackson/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Charles and Camilla were told the story of how chocolate is made (Chris Jackson/PA) While the prince nodded at the commentary, his wifes eyes drifted over to dozens of bars of chocolate on display and she could not resist buying some. Charles had to gently tap his wife on the shoulder to encourage her to move on to see the next showcase of desserts and carefully crafted truffles. Charles quipped: They are all very good for you, Im sure! Did you make all these yourselves, even the chocolate gold? The couple were then given some cocoa tea to try, but seemed surprised at the bitter taste. The Prince and The Duchess visit the House of Chocolate where they learn about the history of the cocoa industry in Grenada #RoyalVisitGrenada pic.twitter.com/HEKiK2iN1Y The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall (@ClarenceHouse) March 23, 2019 Camilla was not too keen but Charles seemed to be a big fan and asked to finish hers as well, which he promptly did. They were then given a whole selection of chocolate samples to try, which they enjoyed. Flavours included charcoal roasted beans, dark with bee pollen, sea salt, nutmeg and spices. Camilla was taken with the bee pollen variety while Charles was very keen on the spice, claiming the pairing was a particular favourite, according to staff. Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the Peoples Vote March in London (Yui Mok/PA) Anti-Brexit campaigners before they take part in the People's Vote March in London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday March 23, 2019. See PA story POLITICS Brexit March. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Anti-Brexit campaigners in Park Lane before they take part in the People's Vote March in London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday March 23, 2019. See PA story POLITICS Brexit March. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March in London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday March 23, 2019. See PA story POLITICS Brexit March. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March in London. Pic: Yui Mok/PA Wire Independent Group MPs Chuka Umunna and Anna Soubry have a selfie taken with Tracey Ullman as they join anti-Brexit campaigners taking part in the People's Vote March in London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday March 23, 2019. See PA story POLITICS Brexit March. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March in London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday March 23, 2019. See PA story POLITICS Brexit March. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March in London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday March 23, 2019. See PA story POLITICS Brexit March. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Demonstrators flooded the streets of central London as they marched on Parliament to demand the public are given a final say over Brexit. Marchers set off from Hyde Park Corner at around midday on Saturday as part of the Put It To The People protest. Organisers claimed there was a turnout of around one million, which they said made it one of the biggest protests in British history. Marching bands, music, whistles, chants and cheers provided a noisy backdrop to the march. Expand Close A screengrab taken from BBC News shows the aerial view of the anti-Brexit campaigners marching in London (BBC/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A screengrab taken from BBC News shows the aerial view of the anti-Brexit campaigners marching in London (BBC/PA) Demonstrators wore blue and yellow berets and flew large EU flags above the crowd as the march slowly made its way to Parliament Square. Placards bore messages urging the Government to revoke article 50 and for Brexit to be put to the people. Expand Close Demonstrators gather in Parliament Square (Yui Mok/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Demonstrators gather in Parliament Square (Yui Mok/PA) The size of the crowd saw people spill over into the capitals side streets and some underground trains were not stopping at Green Park station. Mariella Frostrup and Richard Bacon, who were hosting a rally in Parliament Square, told the crowds an initial count showed the amount of people taking part in the march had topped one million. The march featured people of all ages who were lead in chants for a peoples vote. Many people wore yellow fluorescent stickers reading Bollocks to Brexit. Its not a done deal. Why young socialists will be marching today #FinalSayForAll https://t.co/lZm58XGAFL Clive Lewis MP (@labourlewis) March 23, 2019 The days activities were kicked off by the unfurling of a large banner on Westminster Bridge that read Love socialism, hate Brexit. The stunt was organised by a group calling itself the Left Bloc which is supported by Labour MPs, including Clive Lewis and Kate Osamor, Green Party MP Caroline Lucas, trade unions and grassroots campaigners. Expand Close Anti-Brexit campaigners in Park Lane (Yui Mok/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Anti-Brexit campaigners in Park Lane (Yui Mok/PA) In Parliament Square, Labours deputy leader Tom Watson is expected to tell marchers the only way to resolve the Brexit impasse is for people themselves to sign it off. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine and London mayor Sadiq Khan are also expected to take the stage. Massive crowds at #PutIttothePeople rally in London today. Good to be there. pic.twitter.com/hgY2kZaW0c Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) March 23, 2019 Other speakers will include former Conservative cabinet minister Justine Greening and ex-attorney general Dominic Grieve, former Tory turned independent MP Anna Soubry, Lib Dem deputy leader Jo Swinson, Green Party MP Caroline Lucas and SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford. Campaigners arrived in the capital from across the country, with one taking on a 715-mile journey on ferries, trains and buses from Orkney in Scotland. Student Sorcha Kirker, 27, was joined by about 30 other students from the University of the Highlands and Islands. Great to kick off the #PeoplesVoteMarch just now. There is a huge turnout of people here from all walks of life, of all ages and from all over the country. We are a Remain country now with 60% wanting to stop the Brexit mess. #ExitfromBrexit #PutitToThePeople pic.twitter.com/9Osfwd1Jc0 Vince Cable (@vincecable) March 23, 2019 The London march coincides with pro-Brexit campaigners continuing their long hike from the North East to the capital. Former Ukip leader Nigel Farage re-joined the March to Leave when it set off from Linby, near Nottingham, on Saturday morning. Expand Close Nigel Farage leads the March to Leave protest (Joe Giddens/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Nigel Farage leads the March to Leave protest (Joe Giddens/PA) Saturdays demonstrations follow EU leaders agreeing to delay Brexit to give Prime Minister Theresa May a final chance to get her deal through Parliament. Leaders agreed to extend Brexit to May 22 if Mrs May can get MPs to back her deal in the Commons at the third time of asking. And we're off! Here in London, thousands of people from across our city and country have come together with @peoplesvote_uk to send a clear message: Enough is enough - it's time to give the British public the final say on Brexit. #PeoplesVote #PutItToThePeople pic.twitter.com/wJzXF4UB6N Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) March 23, 2019 If the vote is not passed, the UK will have to set out an alternative way forward by April 12, which could mean a much longer delay with the UK required to hold elections to the European Parliament or leaving without a deal at all. An online petition demanding the Government stops the Brexit process had topped four million signatures by Saturday morning. It is now the most popular ever submitted to the Parliament website, moving ahead of a 2016 petition calling for a second EU referendum. DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds has accused the Prime Minister of missing an opportunity in Brussels to put forward proposals to improve the chances of an acceptable Withdrawal Agreement. He was speaking as European Council President Donald Tusk said that until April 12 "anything is possible", including the UK cancelling Brexit. Under the plan set out at the Brussels summit, EU leaders agreed to extend Brexit to May 22 if Theresa May can finally get MPs to back her deal in a third House of Commons "meaningful" vote. If she fails, the Government will have to set out an alternative way forward by April 12, which could mean a much longer delay - with the UK required to hold elections to the European Parliament - or leaving without a deal. The Prime Minister insisted that the Brussels plan will enable the UK to leave in an "orderly manner" in eight weeks' time. But amid signs her authority is crumbling, there were calls for her to quit as MPs voiced their anger that Brexit won't go ahead on March 29. Tory backbencher Steve Double said Mrs May was "isolated" and that there were "many people" in the party at Westminster who now wanted her to go. "We need to find a way forward and I think that requires new leadership," he said. Mr Dodds said the Government "has consistently settled for inferior compromises when they didn't need to". He continued: "Nothing has changed as far as the Withdrawal Agreement is concerned. "Nothing fundamentally turns on the formal ratification of documents which the Attorney General has already said do not change the risk of the UK being trapped in the backstop." Alliance deputy leader Stephen Farry described the Government's implementation of Brexit as "incompetent and humiliating". He said: "The European Council has essentially had to intervene to provide some structure and breathing space for the UK Government and Parliament to take clear and long overdue decisions, and to avoid an immediate cliff edge no deal outcome. "For Alliance, the most coherent and democratic option is to have a people's vote and ask the EU for a longer extension before April 12. "An alternative way forward is to modify the Political Declaration to telegraph a softer version of Brexit. If neither of those is viable, then the bottom remains this Withdrawal Agreement with the current backstop." Meanwhile, yesterday's Financial Times reported that at the EU summit, German Chancellor Angela Merkel noted the serious risks of a no-deal outcome. The paper reported that she had stressed the difficulties this would pose for maintaining an open border with Northern Ireland. It said she called for a fall-back plan to be explored to uphold the Good Friday Agreement. DUP leader Arlene Foster MLA said: "These comments show clearly that the backstop is unnecessary and a so-called hard border can be avoided. "After all the rhetoric, we now see the EU working towards alternatives which only a few months ago they said were impossible. "The issue of a hard border has been used as a negotiating tactic by the EU to advance its own agenda in negotiations." Mrs Merkel had requested that the EU ramp up its plans to avoid a hard border in the event of no-deal with the creation of a taskforce. But Tanaiste Simon Coveney said prime responsibility for protecting the Good Friday Agreement lies with Britain. "I don't accept that there is clearly a frustration with Ireland, there is an understanding across the European Union that the border question is a very emotive and political question on this island, that's why we've had so much support and solidarity across the European Union for solutions to that question, that's why we have the backstop within the Withdrawal Agreement," he said. "It's why, even in a no-deal scenario, the European Commission will work with Ireland to ensure that of course we need to protect the single market, we will also ensure that it doesn't result in physical infrastructure on the island." Mr Coveney also had a message for the DUP. "I read the statement that Nigel Dodds made today, it was very critical of the Prime Minister - I think we need to be careful not to read too much into emotive language now," he added. Sinn Fein MP Elisha McCallion said a fall-back to a hard border already exists - the backstop. She added: "If there is a no-deal, crash-out Brexit, the Good Friday Agreement includes provision for a referendum on Irish unity and both the British and Irish governments should be preparing for that." SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan said: "Only weeks out from Brexit and it is finally hitting home that a no-deal outcome will be devastating for people on this island. Business has already said that the UK Government's no-deal plan isn't workable. "Without the backstop, the British Government's negotiating team knows that the EU will be forced to secure its economic frontier in our communities. "Driving us off that cliff edge with no plan is an act of profound recklessness." People pass through a section of the road damaged by Cyclone Idai in Nhamatanda (AP) Additional aid funding has been announced by the Scottish Government to help support relief efforts in Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe following deadly flooding in the region. More than 400,000 people have lost their homes and at least an estimated 480 lives have been lost as a result of Cyclone Idai. An appeal launched by the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) on Thursday to help those affected raised 8 million within its first 24 hours. Expand Close Some of the devastation caused in Nhamatanda in Mozambique (AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Some of the devastation caused in Nhamatanda in Mozambique (AP) International Development Minister Ben Macpherson announced that the Scottish Government would provide 150,000 to the appeal. Around 100,000 of funding is to come from the international development budget, with 50,000 allocated from the Climate Justice Fund to support emergency flood relief in Malawi in securing water supplies and treating contamination. Earlier this month, the Scottish Government pledged a total of 175,000 towards supporting relief efforts. As an outward-looking, compassionate country it is right that we do what we can to support the international response to this humanitarian emergencyInternational Development Minister Ben Macpherson Our thoughts are with all of those affected by the terrible consequences of Cyclone Idai, said Mr Macpherson. As an outward-looking, compassionate country it is right that we do what we can to support the international response to this humanitarian emergency. This funding will help aid agencies in Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to deliver life-saving support to local families and communities in desperate need, as will all public donations to the DEC Scotland appeal. The area submerged by water in Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe is vast following #CycloneIdai. Land and livelihoods have been ruined and the recovery will take time. Please give what you can: https://t.co/qPy0EslyU0 pic.twitter.com/JU94PeACqL DEC (@decappeal) March 22, 2019 Sally Foster Fulton, of Christian Aid and DEC Scotland, said: The DEC in Scotland is delighted that the Scottish Government has made available this extra funding. The Scottish public are already responding generously, as always, and were sure this extra boost will inspire others to dig deep in the coming days. The response from our members and partners on the ground over the weekend will be vital in saving and protecting lives, so please donate now. Former Labour prime minister Tony Blair has said he has lots of sympathy for Theresa May as she battles to deliver Brexit. Mr Blair cautioned that the Prime Minister is making decisions which will determine the future of the country for generations to come, but said he acknowledged the very tough position she is in. I have got lots of sympathy for her personally and I think its a very, very tough position to be in. I can tell frankly that shes obviously very tired, probably exhausted, with it all and its a huge strain, he told BBC Radio 4s Week in Westminster. All of that is obviously true but unfortunately the decisions that are being taken are going to determine the future of the country for generations to come. On now: Tony Blair on #WeekInWestminster - I have lots of sympathy for [Theresa May]. Its a very tough position to be in. But the decisions that are being taken are going to determine the future of the country for generations to come. Listen: https://t.co/soKHabblWA Tony Blair Institute (@InstituteGC) March 23, 2019 Mr Blair, a strong proponent of a second referendum, also called for a proposed series of indicative votes on alternatives to Mrs Mays Brexit deal to be delayed, saying it would be better to have a debate in a less frenzied atmosphere. He said: The most difficult thing for MPs will be: do they try and do these so-called indicative votes fast and get a conclusion by 12th April? I personally would not do that, but I think theyll be under huge pressure to do it. It would be better if we took a longer time to do it. He added: Really what Im saying is because we spent so long not really grasping what a soft Brexit means, the so-called Norway option, what a hard Brexit means, the so-called Canada option, it would be better if you had a debate that happened in less of an atmosphere of frenzy. But obviously the downside of that is that you then have to have a longer extension and then the question of the European elections and so on comes up so I understand all the reasons against it but I think the most important thing to realise is that at some point Parliament is going to have to nail its colours to the mast. The Prince of Wales attends an official welcome ceremony in Grenada (Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA) Victoria Cross hero Johnson Beharry has said the royal family are embracing the Commonwealth as Britain moves closer towards Brexit. Sergeant Beharry, who was awarded Britains highest military honour for twice saving colleagues while under fire in Iraq, suggested Charles, a future head of the Commonwealth, was helping to revive the institution which he said many had forgotten. The soldiers comments came during a whirlwind tour of Grenada by the prince and duchess who celebrated local food producers, indulged themselves at a chocolate company and ended their day by taking a stroll on the beach. Expand Close The Prince of Wales talks with Johnson Beharry (Phil Noble/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Prince of Wales talks with Johnson Beharry (Phil Noble/PA) Grenada-born Sgt Beharry met Charles when he visited the countrys new parliament building for talks with prime minister Keith Mitchell. Asked about the meeting, Sgt Beharry said: As you say his name I keep getting goosebumps. I never thought in history I would be in Grenada with his royal highness at the same time. The VC recipient, of the 1st Battalion, Princess of Waless Royal Regiment, highlighted the importance of Harrys 2016 trip to Grenada and now his fathers visit. Lively vibes in Grenada as The Prince and The Duchess visit St Georges waterfront, the Carenage. #RoyalVisitGrenada pic.twitter.com/YoBzS2jURX The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall (@ClarenceHouse) March 23, 2019 He added: First we have Prince Harry and now with have His Royal Highness Prince Charles, I cannot really put it together in words how important it is to have the royal family visiting Grenada. With whats going on with Brexit and everything else, to build a relationship with the Commonwealth, to show that there is a Commonwealth and to see the royal familys actually embracing the Commonwealth more or less recreating back the Foreign and Commonwealth. Expand Close Harry meeting children during his visit to Grenada (Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Harry meeting children during his visit to Grenada (Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA) Because for years there was the word Commonwealth and no one knew, even myself, what it meant because there was no relationship and I know the reason why. Now is very important to raise the profile of the Commonwealth and bring the whole of the Commonwealth back together and the UK is showing support to the Commonwealth. The prince and Duchess of Cornwall have already visited St Lucia, Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis and St Vincent and the Grenadines during a busy tour at the request of the British Government which is aimed at strengthening ties with the Commonwealth nations. The heir to the throne and his wife went for a stroll on the sands of Grand Anse Beach before leaving Grenada and the duchess told a family sat on sun loungers youre just in the right place. Expand Close Charles and Camilla walk along Grand Anse beach (Jane Barlow/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Charles and Camilla walk along Grand Anse beach (Jane Barlow/PA) Camilla had kicked off her shoes revealing the pink nail polish on her toes as she shared the brief private time with her husband. The prince had left a private blue economy roundtable event discussing plans for the stewardship of the waters of the West Indies to join his wife. Earlier, the heir to the throne had emulated Charlie in the chocolate factory when the couple visited House of Chocolate, a company famed for the sweet treats it produces. Expand Close The royals visited a market in St Georges (Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The royals visited a market in St Georges (Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA) An array of chocolates were laid out for them to taste with Charles preferring a spice flavoured sample while his wife liked bee pollen. When they left the business in the heart of the capital St Georges they received a colourful welcome with the streets lined with young women in traditional dress, performing stilt walkers and a steel pan band playing. They made their way to the waterfront to see a display of local produce and spices as Grenada is known as the spice island and exhibitors were showing innovative ways to use products like nutmeg to find a new market for their goods. What the papers say March 23 (PA) Britains departure from the European Union and Theresa Mays future make headlines on Saturday, while stories of a robbery on Coronation Street and the death of a Britains Got Talent contestant also feature on the fronts. The Times reports that Mrs May is under pressure to set a date for her departure from Downing Street with the paper reporting that her support among Cabinet ranks is draining away. The Times 23/3/2019 Armsan RS-S1 Box Fed Shotgun. Weapons similar to those used in the New Zealand massacre are legally on sale in Britain, despite the governments boast that UK gun laws are the toughest in the world. #thetimes #tomorrowspaperstoday @thetimes pic.twitter.com/04fbLtMVua The Times Pictures (@TimesPictures) March 22, 2019 The Daily Telegraph reports that Mrs May will gamble by allowing MPs a vote on Britain remaining in the customs union. The front page of tomorrow's Daily Telegraph - 'May gambles with vote on customs union' #tomorrowspaperstoday #brexit pic.twitter.com/WV2O5bIs8g The Telegraph (@Telegraph) March 22, 2019 The Guardian carries detail from a confidential Cabinet Office document about the impact of a no-deal Brexit. Guardian front page, Saturday 23 March 2019: Revealed: secret plan for months of no-deal chaos pic.twitter.com/4W8Vb8qjG2 The Guardian (@guardian) March 23, 2019 The Financial Times writes that MPs are to seize control of Brexit, reporting that Mrs Mays deal is unlikely to succeed. Just published: front page of the Financial Times UK edition, Saturday March 23 https://t.co/9VOnHJw031 pic.twitter.com/PzS2SHRwJu Financial Times (@FinancialTimes) March 22, 2019 The i carries the headline PM losing her grip on power, reporting Mrs Mays control over the Government and Cabinet is fading. The Independent carries details of a march on Parliament taking place on Saturday. Elsewhere, the Daily Mirror reports on the death of Britains Got Talent dancer Jack Saunders, while the Sun reports on raiders striking on the set of Coronation Street. The Daily Mail reports on its campaign to get volunteers to give the country a spring clean. The Daily Express says Mrs May is facing a fight for her survival. Here is tomorrow's @Daily_Express front page: - May's last stand - Catherine Zeta Jones: How to arrive at the airport Hollywood style - Victoria's Secrets: All you need to know about the new series - FREE #Brexit blue passport holder#TomorrowsPaperToday pic.twitter.com/l7tkKB4L6I Daily Express (@Daily_Express) March 22, 2019 And the Daily Star writes about its crusade to get people to stop talking about Brexit for 24 hours. Staff pose with the steer bull in the Texas store (Shelly Lumpkin/Facebook) Petco has shown that all pets really are welcome after a couple stunned shoppers by bringing in their enormous steer bull. Owner Vincent Browning decided to test the pet shops policy of allowing all leashed pets by putting African Watusi bull Oliver on a lead and taking him shopping. In a video posted on Facebook, staff in the Texas store are seen approaching the bull and even stroking him between his large horns. Photo/Video credit: Shelly Lumpkin We decided to take a chance and call Petco 's bluff on the 'ALL LEASHED PETS ARE... Posted by Vincent Browning on Monday, March 18, 2019 Alongside the video, Mr Browning wrote: The awesome crew at Petco Atascocita did not disappoint!! They welcomed Oliver the African Watusi with open arms. The staff members here are always super friendly and courteous to us. We really enjoy coming to this locationour favorite Petco BY FAR!! The post soon became a viral hit, with many animal lovers praising Petco for the open door policy. Pets are family no matter the type, breed or size! So proud (and a little jealous) of our Atascocita team for keeping @Petcos word when we say ALL leashed #pets are welcome. Meeting Oliver, the African Watusi, looks like an incredible experience! https://t.co/Y55mxYRHYs Ron Coughlin (@RCoughlinPetco) March 21, 2019 Petco CEO Ron Coughlin joined in on the conversation, tweeting: Pets are family no matter the type, breed or size! So proud (and a little jealous) of our Atascocita team for keeping @Petcos word when we say ALL leashed #pets are welcome. Meeting Oliver, the African Watusi, looks like an incredible experience! President Donald Trump has been under pressure over the Mueller report (Terry Renna/AP) US special counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his investigation into Russian interference in the US presidential election and alleged collusion with associates of Donald Trump. The Justice Department said Mr Mueller delivered his final report on Friday to Attorney General William Barr, who is reviewing it. Expand Close Attorney General William Barr is reviewing Robert Muellers report (Jose Luis Magana/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Attorney General William Barr is reviewing Robert Muellers report (Jose Luis Magana/AP) Responding to the release, the White House said the next steps are up to Attorney General (William) Barr. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said we look forward to the process taking its course. She added: The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. Kayleigh McEnany 45 Archived (@PressSec45) March 22, 2019 Leading Democrats Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer said it is imperative to make the full report public. The top congressional Democrats said: The American people have a right to the truth. In a joint statement, they said Mr Barr must not give Mr Trump, his lawyers or staff any sneak preview of the findings or evidence. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public, they said. Mr Muellers report sets the stage for big public fights to come. The next steps are up to Mr Trumps attorney general, to Congress and, in all likelihood, federal courts. It is not clear how much of the report will become public or be provided to Congress. Mr Barr has said he will write his own report summarising Mr Muellers findings. The nearly two-year probe has shadowed Mr Trumps presidency and resulted in felony charges against 34 people including six people who served on Mr Trumps campaign. Mr Barr said he could release his account to Congress as soon as this weekend. I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, Mr Barr said in his letter to the top Republicans and Democrats on the House and Senate Judiciary committees. Mr Trumps lawyers said they were pleased that Mr Mueller has delivered his report. Rudy Giuliani and Jay Sekulow said: Were pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the Attorney General pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps. With no details released at this point, it is not known whether Mr Muellers report answers the core questions of his investigation: Did Mr Trumps campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favour of the celebrity businessman? Did Mr Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? Expand Close President Donald Trump has been dogged by the investigation (Carolyn Kaster/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Donald Trump has been dogged by the investigation (Carolyn Kaster/AP) But the delivery of the report does mean the investigation has concluded without any public charges of a criminal conspiracy between the campaign and Russia, or of obstruction by the President. It is unclear what steps Mr Mueller will take if he uncovered what he believes to be criminal wrongdoing by Mr Trump, in light of Justice Department legal opinions that have held that sitting presidents may not be indicted. The mere delivery of a confidential report will set off immediate demands, including in the Democratic-led House, for full release of Mr Muellers findings. Mr Barr has said he wants to make as much public as possible, and any efforts to withhold details will prompt a tussle between the Justice Department and lawmakers who may subpoena Mr Mueller and his investigators to testify before Congress. Such a move by Democrats would likely be vigorously contested by the Trump administration. The conclusion of Mr Muellers investigation does not remove legal peril for the president. Mr Trump faces a separate Justice Department investigation in New York into hush money payments during the campaign to two women who say they had sex with him years before the election. He has also been implicated in a potential campaign finance violation by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who says Mr Trump asked him to arrange the transactions. Federal prosecutors, also in New York, have been investigating foreign contributions made to the presidents inaugural committee. No matter the findings in Mr Muellers report, the investigation has already illuminated Russias assault on the American political system, painted the Trump campaign as eager to exploit the release of hacked Democratic emails and exposed lies by Trump aides aimed at covering up their Russia-related contacts. The special counsel brought a sweeping indictment accusing Russian military intelligence officers of hacking Democrat Hillary Clintons campaign and other Democratic groups during the 2016 election. He charged another group of Russians with carrying out a large-scale social media disinformation campaign against the American political process that also sought to help Mr Trump and hurt Mrs Clinton. Closer to the president, Mr Mueller secured convictions against a campaign chairman who cheated banks and dodged his taxes, a national security adviser who lied about his Russian contacts and a campaign aide who misled the FBI about his knowledge of stolen emails. Cohen, the presidents former lawyer, pleaded guilty in New York to campaign finance violations arising from the hush money payments and in the Mueller probe to lying to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. Another Trump confidant, Roger Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied about his pursuit of Russian-hacked emails ultimately released by WikiLeaks. It is unclear whether any of the aides who have been convicted, all of whom have pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigators, might angle for a pardon. Mr Trump has left open the idea of pardons. Israeli Rafi Eitan during the 2011 opening of an exhibition about Eichmanns capture (Sebastian Scheiner/AP) Rafi Eitan, a legendary Mossad spy who led the team that captured Holocaust mastermind Adolf Eichmann in Argentina, has died at the age of 92. Eitan was one of the founders of Israels intelligence community and among its most prominent figures in Israel and abroad. Rafi was among the heroes of the intelligence services of the State of Israel on countless missions on behalf of the security of Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in tribute. His wisdom, wit and commitment to the people of Israel and our state were without peer. His work and his actions will be etched in gold letters in the annals of the stateMossad director Yossi Cohen The 1960 operation to capture Eichmann in Argentina and bring him to trial in Jerusalem was perhaps Mossads most memorable mission. It brought to life the horrors of the Nazi Final Solution, of which Eichmann was the architect, creating a blueprint to wipe out the entire Jewish population of Europe. Eichmann was convicted in 1961 of war crimes and crimes against humanity. He was hanged the following year the only time Israel has carried out a death sentence. He had fled Germany after the Second World War and assumed the name Ricardo Klement in Argentina. Mr Eitan, who headed a seven-man team on the ground, grabbed Eichmann on the way back to his Buenos Aires home, shoved him into a car and spirited him to a safe house. In the back seat of the car, one agent shoved a gloved hand inside Eichmanns mouth in case he had a cyanide pill hidden in a tooth, as some former top Nazis were known to have to foil their capture. Mr Eitan identified Eichmann by searching his body for distinctive scars on his arm and stomach, recalling years later: And once I felt it I was convinced. This is the man we got Eichmann. Mossad director Yossi Cohen said the majority of Eitans exploits still remain unknown to the general public. His work and his actions will be etched in gold letters in the annals of the state, Mr Cohen said in a statement. The foundations that Rafi laid in the first years of the state are a significant layer in the activities of the Mossad even today. Mr Eitan was also known for being the handler of Pentagon spy Jonathan Pollard, a US intelligence analyst who passed information to Israel in the 1980s. Pollard was arrested in 1985 and pleaded guilty, in an espionage affair that embarrassed Israel and severely tarnished its relations with the United States. Mr Eitan claimed his actions were sanctioned by his superiors, but eventually was forced to resign his post. He went into business and later in life entered politics and scored an election sensation in 2006 as head of the Pensioners Party, garnering seven seats in the 120-seat parliament and becoming a cabinet minister in Ehud Olmerts government. Welcome Guest! You Are Here: As special counsel Robert Mueller concluded his Russia investigation, here is a look at the key names who are likely to feature in the report. Paul Manafort The former campaign chairman of Donald Trumps campaign has been convicted in Washington and Virginia of crimes related to years of Ukrainian political consulting work, including allegations he concealed his foreign government work from the United States and failed to pay taxes on it. Though the charges do not directly touch Mr Trump, he nonetheless remained a figure of considerable intrigue and enjoys the continued sympathy of the President, who has left open the door for a pardon. He is now serving a more than seven-year prison sentence. Michael Flynn Expand Close President Donald Trumps former national security adviser Michael Flynn is awaiting sentencing (Carolyn Kaster/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Donald Trumps former national security adviser Michael Flynn is awaiting sentencing (Carolyn Kaster/AP) Mr Trumps former national security adviser pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI just days after Mr Trump took office by telling agents that he had never discussed sanctions with the-then Russian ambassador to the United States. The White House said Flynn had misled administration officials, including Vice President Mike Pence, about the conversation and ousted him weeks later. He has since become a vital cooperator for Mr Mueller, having met 19 times with investigators. Prosecutors are not recommending any prison time when he is sentenced next week. Michael Cohen Mr Trumps long-time lawyer and fixer is at the centre of not only Mr Muellers investigation but also a separate, and rapidly mushrooming, investigation into hush-money payments. In Mr Muellers investigation, Cohen has admitted lying to Congress about a proposed real estate development in Moscow. He told lawmakers the negotiations were done in January 2016 when in fact they stretched deep into the campaign. He also pleaded guilty in New York to campaign finance violations stemming from the payments, with prosecutors saying last week that he acted in coordination and at the direction of Individual 1 or Mr Trump. George Papadopoulos The former Trump campaign foreign policy adviser served a 14-day prison sentence after admitting lying to the FBI about a 2016 conversation with a Maltese professor who told him that Russia had dirt on Hillary Clinton in the form of stolen emails. Information about Papadopouloss contacts during the campaign started the FBIs Russia investigation. Russian intelligence Twelve Russian military intelligence officers were charged in July with hacking into email accounts of Hillary Clintons presidential campaign and the Democratic Party and then facilitating the release of tens of thousands of private communications. It remains perhaps the most direct example of what intelligence officials say was a broad conspiracy by the Kremlin to meddle in the 2016 election on Mr Trumps behalf. Russian online trolls A separate indictment charges 13 Russians with funding a covert social media propaganda campaign to sow discord among Americans in the run-up to the 2016 presidential election. Prosecutors say the scheme was run by a Russia-based troll farm that used bogus social media postings and advertisements fraudulently purchased in the name of Americans to try to influence the race. Roger Stone Expand Close Roger Stone, an associate of President Donald Trump, is facing charges (Cliff Owen/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Roger Stone, an associate of President Donald Trump, is facing charges (Cliff Owen/AP) A long-time Trump confidant, and self-proclaimed dirty trickster of Republican politics, Stone is charged with witness tampering and lying to Congress about his efforts to gain advance knowledge of WikiLeakss plans to release damaging information on Mrs Clinton during 2016. Though a Stone tweet from 2016 Trust me, it will soon the Podestas time in the barrel appeared to presage the disclosure of hacked emails, Stone has said he had no inside knowledge about the content, source or timing of WikiLeakss disclosure. He has also pleaded not guilty to the federal charges brought by Mr Mueller. Julian Assange The WikiLeaks founder, under Justice Department scrutiny for years for the groups role in publishing government secrets, has been an important figure in the Mueller investigation as investigators examine how WikiLeaks obtained emails stolen from Mrs Clintons campaign and Democratic groups. Prosecutors have also investigated whether any Americans were involved in coordinating that effort. Separately, prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia inadvertently disclosed the existence of a sealed criminal complaint against the WikiLeaks founder, though no details have been publicly announced. Donald Trump Jr The presidents eldest son has attracted scrutiny for his role in arranging a Trump Tower meeting in June 2016 also attended by Manafort and Mr Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner at which he expected to receive damaging information on Mrs Clinton. He has said the meeting was a waste of time because he did not receive anything interesting from the attorney, Natalia Veselnitskaya. Both he and his father have suggested that anyone in that position would have taken such a meeting in hopes of getting dirt on a political opponent. One of the men sobbed throughout the hearing at Belfast Magistrates' Court. The arrests of several men in connection with PSNI drug raids was part of an ongoing investigation into the activities of the East Belfast UVF, a court has been told. A detective made the admission during cross-examination by a solicitor for Andrew Crawford (28), from Carndore Grange, Newtownards, who was remanded in custody on charges of supplying cocaine. He was among 11 people arrested on Friday in dawn raids by officers from the Paramilitary Crime Taskforce. Also remanded in custody on cocaine dealing charges were Mark Rainey (39) with an address at St Patricks Walk Belfast, and Darren Baine (29) from Cheviot Avenue. A fourth man Conor McConnell (22), with an address at Wye Street in Belfast was freed on bail after police accepted his case was stand alone and not connected to Fridays Taskforce operation. During Saturdays court hearing unemployed Baine was accused by police of being part of a drug-dealing network and a criminal gang linked to east Belfast UVF. He was also named as playing a key role in the drug-dealing operation. A detective revealed that cocaine with a street value of 15,000 was discovered in Crawfords home which he shares with his partner and two young children. Drug dealing paraphernalia, UVF flags, and a handful of ecstasy tables were also located. Both men were refused bail on the basis that they may commit further offences which put a risk to public health. Rainey did not apply for bail. The court heard how McConnell was arrested after his mobile phone was seized by detectives who were searching for a relative in connection with the UVF murder of Ian Ogle in January. It contained evidence of minor drug dealing which he admitted to during police interviews last Friday. McConnell, who sobbed throughout the hearing, was freed on bail after an officer accepted that his case was not linked to the Paramilitary Crime Taskforces UVF investigation. cbarnes@sundaylife.co.uk Moncks Corner, SC (29461) Today Rain likely. Thunder possible. Low near 50F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Rain likely. Thunder possible. Low near 50F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Kathmandu, Nepal, March 23: With the arrest of the senior leader of the Netra Bikram Chand (Biplav)-led Communist Party of Nepal (CPN), Hemanta Prakash Oli and eight others, new form of wave has emerged in the political front of the country. As the government adopted stern measure against of the Biplav led CPN, political parties, intellectuals and general public seem afraid of another conflict in the country. Police have arrested NCP leader Shanker Adhikari, Dev Ghimire, Dharma Raj Rajbahak, Ram Krishna Khatiwada, Bijaya Shrestha, Lalit Tamang, Sanjiv Karki and Lokendra Khadka at wee hours on Friday. A joint team deployed from the special bureau, the central investigation bureau and the district police office of Kavre arrested them from Milche area of Khanikhola Rural Municipality-7 in Kavrepalanchok at around 4:50 am, Police source said. It is said that the government has already arrested the security agencies to take stern action against of the outlawed Chanda led CPN. Sindhuli, Nepal, March 23: Nepali Congresss senior leader Ramchandra Poudel has accused the incumbent government of jeopardizing the democratic values and culture of consensual politics. The Nepal Communist Party (NCP) led incumbent government has been attempting to centralize power not putting democracy at risk, Nepali Congress senior leader Poudel said. The government seems full of arrogant due to the majority strength in the parliament, Poudel accused while peaking at a press meet organised by the Nepal Press Union (NPU), Sindhuli on Saturday. During a reception in Hanoi on March 22 for Singaporean Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Public Security Teo Chee Hean, PM Phuc said Vietnam always supports Singaporean firms to do business in the country, highlighting that Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) model is successful in Vietnamese localities. He thanked and lauded Singapore for partnering with Vietnam during development and integration, especially in training high-quality workforce, sharing experience in macro management, developing science and new economies to catch up with the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The host hailed the two countries for focusing on innovation and creativity, especially for young generations. The leader wished that Singaporean enterprises would join the public-private partnership in infrastructure, renewable energy, liquefied natural gas, energy, smart grid, high technology, agriculture and farm produce processing, aquaculture, apparel, wood processing, urban infrastructure, high-quality education-training, pharmaceuticals, health care, seaport logistics. He urged for the prompt launch of the VSIP project in the central province of Quang Tri, a software park in the central city of Da Nang, and assistance to Vietnam in building a national innovation centre. On the occasion, he lauded Singapore for successfully playing its role as ASEAN Chair 2018 and Coordinator of ASEAN China relations for 2015 2018. Vietnam wants Singapore to share its experience during its Year of ASEAN Chairmanship as well as work closely with Vietnam to promote priorities and initiatives within the framework of ASEAN Vision on self-reliance and creativity, he said. The PM also stressed that Vietnam will uphold its role in ensuring food security in the region and the world. Both sides shared the importance of ensuring peace, stability, maritime and aviation security and freedom in the East Sea, building a rules-based order, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea, the leader noted, suggesting that they should continue close joint work within the framework of ASEAN and relevant forums, maintaining the blocs solidarity, role and common voice on the East Sea issue, particularly ongoing complicated issues. PM Phuc said ASEAN needs to actively build a rules-based order in the East Sea, step up measures to build trust, ease tension and prevent incidents. He spoke highly of Singapores role in ASEAN China negotiations on the draft Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) and proposed mutual support in the process. The development of the Vietnam Singapore ties is beneficial to ASEAN Community, he said. Singaporean Deputy PM Teo, for his part, informed the host about the outcomes of his talks with Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh. He congratulated Vietnam on successfully holding the second USA DPRK Summit and preparing to assume its role as ASEAN Chair by 2020, vowing that Singapore will actively support Vietnam in the near future. Teo suggested promoting technological innovation space for businesses, especially start-ups. According to him, Singapore wants to import more high-quality Vietnamese farm produce. The two nations should expand aviation industry, air routes, defence cooperation and linkage in services and finance, he said, suggesting stepping up customs clearance, financial e-transactions, and legal framework for trade and investment. Singapore commits all possible support to Vietnams assumption of ASEAN Chair 2020 and appreciates Vietnams role in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), he said. He expressed his hope that both sides will soon conclude the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) deal. On the East Sea issue, he said Singapore consistently advocates that every dispute must be settled by peaceful means to ensure maritime and aviation security and safety. 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 his 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 telecom 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 27,000 USD 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 sate and government agencies. Vietnamplus The 10-bed regional hospital that serves the medical needs of 5,000 people on the remote west coast of Vancouver Island has been doing extra duty lately as an emergency shelter for the homeless and poorly housed, says the mayor of Tofino. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Surfers head into the water in Tofino, B.C. Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2010. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward The 10-bed regional hospital that serves the medical needs of 5,000 people on the remote west coast of Vancouver Island has been doing extra duty lately as an emergency shelter for the homeless and poorly housed, says the mayor of Tofino. Josie Osborne says she and her council were shocked to discover that Tofino General Hospital regularly provides beds and meals for people who arrive at the facility for treatment who would normally not require in-patient service. A delegation from Island Health, including the area's medical health officer and a hospital doctor, appeared at Tofino council last month when the issue was discussed, she said. "I personally was unaware that people were staying overnight in the hospital sometimes because they simply didn't have an adequate home to go back to," said Osborne. "That's deeply concerning." Tofino General Hospital serves as a regional health facility for a vast region of eight communities, some of which are accessible only by boat or float plane. Osborne said due to the distances some people travel and the remoteness of their communities, the hospital sometimes admits people overnight who can't make it home after treatment, although the homeless issue is a recent development. "But there are a few people who live in Tofino who present at the hospital and they've got both medical and social reasons why the hospital staff choose to admit them overnight," said Osborne. "It is effectively acting as a temporary shelter for some people who don't have a safe home or a healthy place to return to at night." She said hospital staff now admit people on a regular basis overnight who have no other place to go. "It's a clarion call, I think, to the entire community to say we have problems we have to talk about," Osborne said. "They are difficult to talk about but we've got to resolve these." She said she doesn't believe the hospital is planning to close its doors to the homeless. "I don't get the sense the hospital is upset," Osborne said. Island Health spokeswoman Shannon Marshall said B.C. hospitals, including Tofino General, do not consider themselves emergency homeless shelters, but patients without housing are often admitted overnight to allow health officials to help make plans for their futures. Tofino regularly struggles with affordable housing shortages for local workers who serve the area's thousands of tourists, but now the accommodation crisis is hitting the most vulnerable people the hardest, said Osborne. "With the exception of higher end market housing, it's very difficult for people to find something affordable for their income range," she said. "That goes from professionals down to tourism front-line workers to retirees who move to the community and want to spend their time here." Tofino is in the planning stages of developing an affordable, multi-unit, rental housing project on municipal land, but a completion date has not been set, said Osborne. She said discovering the local hospital is serving as an emergency shelter heightens the need to address the housing shortfall in the community. "It just raises the level of awareness that there are gaps at all levels, especially when you hear about the gaps for our more vulnerable population." The B.C. Housing Ministry said in a statement the situation in Tofino demonstrates how the housing crisis is affecting communities. The province has committed to building 114,000 new affordable homes over 10 years. OTTAWA - Premier Doug Ford says mainstream journalists have become irrelevant because social media allows him to speak directly to Ontarians. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Ontario Premier Doug Ford makes a keynote address at the Manning Networking Conference in Ottawa on Saturday, March 23, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang OTTAWA - Premier Doug Ford says mainstream journalists have become irrelevant because social media allows him to speak directly to Ontarians. The Ontario premier told a conference of conservative thinkers, strategists and politicians Saturday that journalists are "losing the battle" to inform people about the news. Speaking at the annual Manning Networking Conference, Ford accused journalists of being "far-left" and intent on distorting the messages of politicians. "I get along with them one-on-one, I really do," Ford told the crowd. "I like them but it's like the cheese slipped off the cracker with these guys and they just went far-left." Ford said the spin put on political messages by mainstream media no longer matters. "But guess what? Now there's social media so we're circumventing the media through our social media." During last year's provincial election, he recounted how he "drove the media crazy" by going directly to voters through social media tools like Facebook and Youtube and Twitter. He boasted that his campaign website "Ford Nation Live" got 18 million hits purportedly more than all the mainstream television news networks combined. And as premier, he said they're continuing that approach through the Ontario News Now website. "They want to take what you said and clip and chop and twist it around but we went direct to the people. And they know they're losing the battle," Ford said. Attacking the media is a favourite ploy of U.S. President Donald Trump, but Ford insisted he's no Trump. "People always say, 'Oh, you're like Trump.' No, I'm Doug Ford. I'm not Donald Trump." Still, Ford praised Trump's policies, particularly slashing the corporate tax rate and reducing regulatory red tape that he said has spurred economic growth. "Down in the U.S., it's absolutely booming and, just my opinion, when the U.S. is booming, Canada is booming," he said. "You couldn't ask for a better neighbour anywhere in the world than the United States of America." Ford also reiterated his vow to fight tooth and nail against the federal Liberal government's plan to impose a carbon tax in Ontario, starting next month. Ontario is one of four provinces that has refused to meet the federal threshold for putting a price on carbon so the federal government is imposing its own tax, the revenue from which is to be rebated directly back to residents in those provinces. Ontario, along with Saskatchewan, Manitoba and New Brunswick, are fighting the tax in court. "The carbon tax is a tax with the word carbon in front of it and it does absolutely nothing for the environment, nothing at all," Ford said, arguing that Ontario is being penalized even though it is "leading the country" in reducing carbon emissions. "Everything you do is going to cost more," he predicted. OTTAWA - Legendary Republican campaign strategist Karl Rove, known for his no-holds-barred approach to American politics, has some advice for Canadian conservatives: simplistic, bumper-sticker sloganeering isn't enough. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Political strategist and pundit Karl Rove, who served as a Senior Advisor and Deputy Chief of Staff to U.S. President George W. Bush, speaks with Preston Manning during the Manning Networking Conference in Ottawa on Friday, March 22, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang OTTAWA - Legendary Republican campaign strategist Karl Rove, known for his no-holds-barred approach to American politics, has some advice for Canadian conservatives: simplistic, bumper-sticker sloganeering isn't enough. Rove on Friday kicked off the annual Manning Networking Conference, a gathering of this country's most influential federal and provincial conservative thinkers, strategists and politicians. This year's event comes amid a political uproar over allegations of interference in the criminal prosecution of Montreal engineering giant SNC-Lavalin by Justin Trudeau's Liberal government, and just seven months before Canadians head to the polls. Rove talked about the rise of populism in the United States that led to Donald Trump's election as president in 2016, as well as how distaste for Trump's "coarseness" and personality has since driven college-educated surburbanites, particularly women, away from the Republican party. "All of these things sort of tie together in an imperative for the conservative movement in my country, and I suspect the conservative movement in your country as well. And that is we gotta take the proposals of the opposition seriously," he told several hundred conference attendees. "We need to take these proposals seriously. We can't mock them, we can't dismiss them with a cute phrase, we've gotta take them on and explain to the American people why they're bad policy, why they're not in keeping with the values of our state or our country. And finally, we've got to go out there and begin to describe which is hard for conservatives in my country to do what it is that we do as an alternative." In the U.S., he said, it's particularly urgent for conservatives to propose alternatives to universal health care advocated by some Democrats. He did not point to any particular issue in Canada, but arguably his message could apply to the federal Conservative party's steadfast opposition to the Liberal government's plan to impose a price on carbon pollution. The Tories deride the plan as a job-killing carbon tax that will drive up the cost of everything but have yet to unveil their own plan for tackling climate change. Rove is credited as the architect of George W. Bush's two presidential victories. He is also a controversial figure in American politics, infamous for negative attack ads and, currently, as a key figure behind the millions in so-called "dark money" funnelled to Republican campaigns through political action committees. Rove said Trump could win a second term next year but "I think they're realistic, they know they're in for a tough race." He predicted Trump will use a strategy pioneered by his Democrat predecessor, Barack Obama, to win a second term: appealing for unity and common purpose, which he said Trump "wisely" started talking about in his recent state of the union address. He also said Trump will portray his main opponent as someone "unworthy of holding the Oval Office" long before the election campaign gets underway. On the last point, Rove said he thinks Trump is counting on Democrats choosing a left-wing presidential candidate who advocates things like free college education, free health care and guaranteed jobs, and said he's already laying the groundwork for discrediting the winner. "The president began to lay the predicate for 2020 in the state of the union address by saying, 'We've never been and never will be a socialist country.'" The Manning conference is to hear from Ontario Progressive Conservative Premier Doug Ford and federal Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer on Saturday. The president of the European Central Bank, Mario Draghi, has told EU leaders that companies have to increase their preparations for a possible no-deal Brexit. Mr Draghis comments came the day after EU leaders agreed at a summit in Brussels to give Britain a final chance to leave the bloc with a deal, extending the Brexit deadline by two weeks to April 12 from March 29. Authorities and central banks are prepared but the private sector has to step up preparations, Mr Draghi told the European summit. In the case of a no-deal Brexit, trade between Britain and the EU would face immediate trade barriers and restrictions on business. Mr Draghi said the negative consequences for the 19-country eurozone would be limited, but he acknowledged that some countries were more exposed than others. Ireland, France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands are among EU countries with large trade flows with Britain and they are likely to feel more of the pain of a non-negotiated Brexit. Mr Draghi also told EU leaders that the eurozone economy is still facing protracted weakness and pervasive uncertainty but risks of a recession remain quite low. Sterling rallied yesterday, helped by a weaker euro and after EU leaders gave British prime minister Theresa May a two-week reprieve to decide how Britain will leave the EU. Disappointing economic survey results in both the eurozone and the US raised volatility across currency markets and added to the pounds gains. The biggest loser was the euro as investors grew increasingly concerned about the outlook for the global economy. Sterling had plunged on Thursday in its biggest one-day fall of 2019 as fears mounted that Britain would crash out of the EU on March 29 without a deal. The EU has said Britain can have a short delay to Brexit, as requested by Ms May, but she must first win parliamentary approval for her withdrawal deal. EU leaders have described the two-week extension as a last chance for Britain to secure an orderly Brexit. The pound was up 0.6% at $1.3188, while its gains versus the euro were as high as 1.5% to 85.49 pence. The gain was largely on the back of weakness in the single currency following disappointing data out of Germany. Reuters Image by Eva Vernooij Adiatu[1], a young Sierra Leonean laboratory scientist, turns on the light in the high risk room of the molecular unit of the recently renovated laboratory in Sierra Leones largest governmental hospital. The sterile, all-white laboratory space is filled with high-end equipment for the detection of Ebola virus. The biosafety cabinets, -80C freezers, hotplates and buckets of chlorine that populate the room were brought in by the British government during the refurbishment of the laboratory, completed two years after the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak was declared over. Adiatu wipes a few particles of dust from the workbench and says she is supposed to clean the high risk room every day, but the only time she has ever received a suspected Ebola sample was in June 2018. At that time, she was by herself in the molecular unit and, without a buddy available to help her put on the protective equipment, prepared a bucket of chlorine to take with her to the specimen collection window to receive the sample (see photo). The Ebola testing procedure consists of a series of steps, starting with in-activating the blood sample in the biosafety cabinet and ending with inserting the specimen into the cartridge of the GeneXpert diagnostic device, produced by the American company Cepheid. The point-of-care GeneXpert machine uses an automated molecular diagnostic method known as real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect the Ebola viruss genomic material. RT-PCR is the primary diagnostic device used in the current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (Butler 2018). Adiatu recalls that when she inserted the specimen into the GeneXpert machine, the machine started beeping and rejected the sample; I wasted my energy, no work done! she sighs, as she recounts finding out that the Xpert cartridge reagents were expired. The Xpert cartridges have a limited shelf-life of three months, which results in boxes of expired cartridges sitting on the shelf in the PCR analysis room. Adiatu later found out that the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and Sanitation also sent samples from the same patient to be tested in two other laboratories with newly established molecular diagnostic facilities in the Western Area District. Fortunately, both test results were negative. I am in Sierra Leone conducting ethnographic fieldwork as part of the DiaDev research project, funded by the European Research Council to investigate the design, development and use of diagnostic tools in Global Health. In my fieldwork, I am tracing the legacy of the diagnostic interventions that were deployed during the Ebola outbreak and researching how current local and international efforts to strengthen laboratory infrastructure in Sierra Leone are transforming the health system. In particular, I am studying how these changes are experienced and perceived by policy makers, laboratory workers, health workers and patients, while exploring what a sustainable and appropriate national laboratory system might look like in a chronically under-resourced health system. During the Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, there were numerous international laboratories supporting the government. Some support was of a temporary nature and consisted of mobile laboratories that are no longer present, whilst other international investment, in the form of refurbished laboratory spaces and high-end equipment to track emergent pathogens, remains in place. Towards the end of the outbreak, a range of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) in addition to PCR-based methods were developed to be used in clinical sites without access to a laboratory. The dwindling number of cases meant that the RDTs were never widely deployed and the outbreak response remained largely dependent on laboratory-based PCR testing. Only one of the RDTs developed in West Africa is currently in use in the Democratic Republic of Congo, due in part to manufacturer-related barriers to sustain the availability of the RDTs, and in other part, to lesser-known country-level regulatory frameworks and deployment of diagnostic devices (Cnops et al 2019). There is a stark contrast between the high-end, Ebola-focused technology brought in by international parties during and/or after the outbreak, which is largely situated in central hospital laboratories, and the limited investments in and capacity for RDTs for endemic illnesses such as malaria and typhoid available at primary health facilities in Sierra Leone. A rapid assessment undertaken by the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and Sanitation in 2015 revealed that only 24 out of 181 Community Health Centers (CHC) sampled were able to perform a selection of basic diagnostic tests, including, for example, blood glucose, malaria RDTs and general microscopy for stool parasite testing. Furthermore, the assessment found that 30% of the CHCs did not have a laboratory worker on staff, and only around a quarter of the primary health facilities were referring specimens to higher level facilities. These severe infrastructural disparities speak to debates about effective strategies for strengthening laboratories in resource-poor settings, which are at the heart of the DiaDev research project. Specifically, these disparities raise questions about the relative benefits of deploying single-plex point-of-care devices versus investment in central laboratories, and the role that central laboratories can potentially play in strengthening diagnosis in primary health care. Another infrastructural investment in the hospital where Adiatu worked was the construction of what the former Kings Sierra Leone Partnership (KSLP) country director, Dr Oliver Johnson, called a dream isolation unit (Walsh & Johnson 2018: 327). During the Ebola outbreak, KSLP was heading the hospitals isolation unit, which was awkwardly located inside the Emergency department. Hundreds of patients pass the Emergency department each day on their way to the triage, resuscitation area and consultation rooms, making it a risky location to hold suspected Ebola patients. Towards the end of the outbreak, with support of the UK Military, the dream isolation unit was constructed at the back of the hospital grounds, which included private rooms, a video intercom system to communicate between the high risk zone and office, and a new incinerator for medical waste. To prevent the loss of facilities and skills learned by the nursing staff during the Ebola outbreak, the units policy stipulates that the unit will be opened to patients with a broader range of diagnoses, including Cholera, Lassa, HIV, Measles, and Chickenpox. Currently, the dream isolation unit has yet to be fully integrated into the everyday running of the hospital. Few medical doctors visit patients, out of fear of being infected with respiratory illnesses such as TB, which make up the majority of its admitted patients. In an interview with the nurse-in-charge of the infectious disease unit, he asserted; Look at this guy laying over here! whilst pointing at one of his volunteer staff members, who lay curled up on a hospital stretcher in a dark corner of the room. The young man on the stretcher volunteered at the unit during the Ebola outbreak and does not have money to pay for his hernia operation. The in-charges attempts to get the hospital management to assist with the operation were unsuccessful. The in-charge explained: During Ebola times there was massive support for the unit, but for nowwe the staff are not taken care of. The sentiment of not feeling cared for by hospital management or by the national government is widely shared amongst other cadres of hospital staffs. As an expression of this sentiment, in December 2018, medical doctors in Sierra Leone undertook a three-week-long, nationwide strike to demand better payment and safer working conditions in government hospitals. During my remaining time in Sierra Leone, I intend to explore the connections and disconnections between infrastructural investments and remainders from the Ebola epidemic, as well as the everyday challenges of health workers practicing medicine in a precarious public health care system. What can these different investments in Ebola diagnostics, buildings and people tell us about divergent models for strengthening health systems, and how do external investments differ from local and national priorities for improving laboratory medicine? What kind of interactions characterise the relationships between health workers who do not feel cared for, and patients who are seeking care from them? And, how do diagnostic tests become embedded and valued in such interactions? The DiaDev research project seeks to answer such questions through participant observation in hospital laboratories, interviewing national-level policy makers and health workers, mapping the availability of diagnostics tests, and following patients with fever-based illnesses through the health care system. Notes [1] All names are pseudonyms. Works Cited Butler, D. 2018. Fast Ebola test limits outbreak. Nature, 558: 172. Cnops, L. et al. 2019. Where are the Ebola diagnostics from last time? Nature, 565: 419-421. Lee, S. J. 2018. Reimagining point of care testing and the role of the central laboratory. Nature Research Microbiology Community. Street, A. 2018. The Testing Revolution: Investigating Diagnostic Devices in Global Health. Somatosphere. Walsh, D. & O. Johnson 2018. Getting to Zero: A Doctor and a Diplomat on the Ebola Frontline. London: Zed Books. Eva Vernooij is a research fellow in the department of Social Anthropology at the University of Edinburgh. She is conducting ethnographic research about the use of diagnostic devices in health systems strengthening in Sierra Leone as part of a ERC-funded project Investigating the Design and Use of Diagnostic Devices in Global Health (DiaDev). Her PhD research at the University of Amsterdam focused on the translation practices of policy makers, scientists, health workers and people living with HIV involved in an implementation study about HIV Treatment as Prevention in Swaziland. This project has received funding from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Unions Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 715450. Share this: Share Email Facebook Twitter Reddit Tumblr LinkedIn [view academic citations] [hide academic citations] Philomena Canning, the independent midwife who had been battling ovarian cancer, has died. Ms Canning had earlier this month settled a High Court action with the HSE after suing them for the wrongful suspension of her licence to practice in 2014 which she says ultimately forced her out of midwifery. She settled the case so she could access funds to pay for the anti-cancer drug, Pembro. This is a day of vindication for me the first day in almost four-and-a-half years where I have woken without a shadow over me; the shadow of having been wronged," she told the Irish Examiner at the time. "I have the peace of mind I longed for. Since news broke of her death, tributes have been pouring in. "So saddened to hear of the death of Philomena Canning - campaigner, activist and strong advocate for womens healthcare. Rest in peace," tweeted the National Women's Council of Ireland. So saddened to hear of the death of Philomena Canning - campaigner, activist and strong advocate for womens healthcare. Rest in peace. https://t.co/1qVMDBqgX2 Womenscouncilireland (@NWCI) March 23, 2019 R.I.P. Sarah Philomena Canning Midwife, warrior, queen We will hold you forever in our hearts and cherish the gifts you gave us. Canning Campaign (@CanningCampaign) March 23, 2019 On behalf of Ireland's midwives and nurses, we send our deepest condolences to the friends and family of the inspirational midwife, Philomena Canning. RIP. Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation (@INMO_IRL) March 23, 2019 DUP MP, Jeffrey Donaldson, will address the Fine Gael National Conference later on North-South relations after Brexit. Over 1,000 party members are attending the two-day event in Wexford, which ends with a televised address by the Taoiseach tonight. Brexit and Ireland's future in Europe opened the Conference in Clayton Whites Hotel last night, with Tanaiste Simon Coveney answering questions on Ireland's preparedness for the UK's withdrawal from the EU. It's a topic that is dominating the event, not least because senior DUP MP Jeffrey Donaldson is addressing delegates this afternoon. Simon Coveney says he hopes to have some quiet time with Mr. Donaldson, to discuss the party's stance on Brexit but says he knows the DUP doesn't respond well to arm twisting. Over 1,000 Fine Gael members are attending, and topics up for discussion today include social protection, education, childcare, tax reform, housing and women in politics. All eyes will be on Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's televised address tonight at 8.30, where he will likely make an election pitch and promises to the party faithful and voters. The Taoiseach has hit out at Conor McGregor claiming he does not want to be associated with his actions. Leo Varadkar was taken by surprise when the MMA fighter turned up to march alongside in him in the St Patrick's Day parade in Chicago last week. Residents and business owners in Stoneybatter in Dublin are holding a community day later to highlight what they believe will be the negative impact of new bus lanes in the area. They are calling on the National Transport Authority to change proposals under the NTA's BusConnects scheme. Speculation that Theresa May will be ousted from Number 10 has reached fever pitch amid reports that UK Cabinet ministers are plotting a coup to get rid of her. The British Prime Minister could be forced to resign within days, one paper claimed, amid a furious backlash over her handling of Brexit. Mrs May's former policy adviser MP George Freeman said it was "all over for the PM", tweeting: "She's done her best. But across the country you can see the anger. "Everyone feels betrayed. Government's gridlocked. Trust in democracy collapsing. This can't go on. We need a new PM who can reach out (and) build some sort of coalition for a PlanB." Im afraid its all over for the PM. Shes done her best. But across the country you can see the anger. Everyone feels betrayed. Governments gridlocked. Trust in democracy collapsing. This cant go on. We need a new PM who can reach out & build some sort of coalition for a PlanB. George Freeman MP (@GeorgeFreemanMP) March 23, 2019 Pro-EU former UK education secretary Nicky Morgan told the Sunday Telegraph that Cabinet ministers should tell Mrs May "it's time to go" while Brexiteer Steve Baker said potential leadership contenders in the Government should "act now". Tory backbencher Anne-Marie Trevelyan wrote in the same paper: "We now need a leader who believes in our country and wants to take her on the next stage of her journey." Conservative peer Lord Gadhia, a former member of David Cameron's inner circle, said the upcoming days in Parliament may be "very dramatic" and could see the end of Mrs May's time as British Prime Minister. The Sunday Times reported 11 Cabinet ministers had told the paper they wanted Mrs May to make way for someone else and that Mrs May's de facto deputy David Lidington was in line to take over the helm. The Sunday Telegraph: Cabinet told to oust May #tomorrowspaperstoday pic.twitter.com/hwejwq54BT Helena Wilkinson (@BBCHelena) March 23, 2019 But the Mail on Sunday reported ministers were plotting to install UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove as a caretaker leader. On Saturday, around one million people were said by organisers to have joined a march on Parliament demanding a final say for the public over Brexit. Marchers waving EU flags and carrying their placards emblazoned with political messages weaved their way from Hyde Park Corner to Parliament Square. Elsewhere, pro-Brexit campaigners will continue their long hike from the North East to the capital, leaving Loughborough on Sunday morning. Michael Gove After another turbulent week for the British Prime Minister which saw her come under fire for delaying Brexit and seeking to blame MPs for the impasse, the Commons was expected to be given the third chance to vote on her Withdrawal Agreement this week. But on Friday night Mrs May wrote to parliamentarians warning if there is insufficient support for her Withdrawal Agreement in the coming days that she could seek an extension to Britain's EU membership beyond the European Parliament elections. Mrs May said she was holding Brexit meetings over the weekend as she tweeted pictures of herself on the local election campaign trail in Milton Keynes. Tory former UK Brexit secretary David Davis argued leaving without a deal on World Trade Organisation terms "looks much better than the other options in front of us" in a piece for the Sunday Telegraph. He wrote: "If Parliament rejects the deal on offer, the Prime Minister has it in her power to deliver a WTO outcome. That is what she should do. "And if some Ministers resign as a result? That would be a pity, but there are always volunteers to replace every departure." PA Trot Insider has received clarification on Thursday's announcement of increased Horse Improvement Program (HIP) funding from the Province of Ontario and Ontario Lottery & Gaming. Thursday's announcement from the Province stated that "the government will provide $10 million per year to support programs for breeders and horsepeople through the Horse Improvement Program (HIP). This will support breeding and industry development for Ontario-bred horses and will be administered by Ontario Racing, replacing the Enhanced Horse Improvement Program previously administered by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs." There was confusion over whether the announcement pledged an additional $10 million or brought the current Enhanced HIP funding to $10 million. According to Scott Blodgett, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Finance, the support amount is a complete replacement of previous Enhanced HIP funding. "[The Long-Term Funding Agreement] also includes $10 million each year to support programs for breeders and horse people through the Horse Improvement Program (a replacement of the current Enhanced Horse Improvement Program)," said Blodgett in an email sent Friday. "This is an additional $3.5 million beyond what the sector currently receives and operational funding for eligible racetracks through the optional Slots at Racetracks Program designed to directly support the horse racing industry and rural communities." Consumer and public health groups are renewing their push to make the governments Health Star Ratings mandatory to boost public confidence in the labelling system, but the food industry would strongly resist such a change. The federal government is reviewing the Health Star Ratings, a scheme introduced in 2014 that provides an at-a-glance healthiness score on food packaging, based on the products nutrient profile. Nutri-Grain could lose stars and yoghurts gain more under the proposed changes. Credit:Peter Braig The review, published in February, recommends keeping the system voluntary with a target for it to be on 70 per cent of relevant products by the end of 2023. Submissions close on Monday and a slew of organisations, including the food industry and various consumer and health groups, are preparing to submit last-minute responses. Chemist Warehouse stores appear to be running low on goods as allegations emerged that striking workers have been targeted with violence and threats at the picket line. The indefinite strike at three key Chemist Warehouse distribution centres has been running for nearly two weeks with little progress in talks between the company and union. On Friday, The Sunday Age visited five Chemist Warehouse stores in inner Melbourne and all appeared to show considerable reductions in stock with numerous empty and thinning shelves. Chemist Warehouse has become best known for its ultra-cheap prices and its assault on the traditional pharmacy business model in Australia. One parent was so upset about their child's assessment that they paid an outside tutor to re-mark the essay and demanded the school use the rival result, which was one point higher. Then there was the mother who wrote to a school offering to sit detention on her daughter's behalf, arguing she was the one who was late to wash the forgotten uniform, so she would accept the punishment. Karen Porter with her two boys Cameron Morris and Lachie Morris, at their Fairlight home where they share the chores. Credit:James Brickwood They are among a legion of Sydney parents rushing to rescue their children from everyday challenges and minor failures such as a spat with a mate, a talking-to from their teacher, or a forgotten history assignment. Some dub them snowploughs, because they remove obstacles from their child's path. But the principal of St Catherine's School in Waverley, Julie Townsend, prefers the term 'concierge parents'. "They are there at a little desk waiting for any problems, and sort them out," she said. When I was 14, she took me shopping for make-up to wear on stage in my school rock band. By then, my little sister was four years old, and it had been a long time since Mum and I had spent time together outside the house. I remember the sales assistant selecting slim glass bottles of foundation, cakes of powder, pencils and pots of eyeliner and smoky eyeshadow, and applying these unusual substances to my face with soft brushes and cool fingers. I remember feeling absorbed in the ritual, re-creating it in the bathroom at home. I also remember my sister finding my make-up bag and spilling green-gold eyeshadow all over the floor she was as fascinated with it as I was. Later, she'd ask me to do her make-up, and obviously I said yes. For the women who choose to participate in them, rituals around beauty and make-up are a prime source of female bonding experiences, moments that bring us closer to other women: being taken to get your hair or nails done for the first time; doing each other's faces at sleepovers; borrowing your friend's GHD straightener before graduation; sharing lip gloss in pub bathrooms. Membership of this club might be forced upon you, but the upside is admission to a worldwide VIP room full of secrets, esoteric knowledge and your best mates. Beauty vloggers are some of YouTube's biggest stars. Michelle Phan, one of the first vloggers to achieve cult-idol status, has more than 8 million subscribers, over a billion cumulative views, and makes $3 million a year. She's been using the platform since at least 2007. Phan's videos follow a soothing formula: she greets her viewers with her famously soft, American-accented voiceover ("Hello cuties"; "Hi, gorgeous"). She appears with a full face of themed make-up the Spanish Rose, maybe, or a red-lipped Chinese New Year look explains what she's about to do ("I have here a beautiful look for you to try out to ring in the lunar new year"), and then the video snap-cuts to Phan bare-faced and staring down the barrel of the camera, starting with skincare and going through a routine, step by step, until her transformation is complete. Phan has been around long enough to become an often-referenced source of inspiration for the thousands like her, who collectively embody every possible variation on the same theme: women doing their make-up for an audience. They have a wealth of secrets to share, a never-ending series of beauty memes and tags ("Put your make-up on without a mirror!" "Kylie Jenner lips!"), and they don't demand anything from their viewers except that they like and subscribe. Beauty vloggers tend not to talk politics. But they are still, without even trying, political. The more beauty tutorials I watched, the more I came to believe that I was witnessing something extraordinary: the creation of a realm that could not exist in such an unfettered form anywhere but digitally a space just for women. Somewhere for us to nut out the often difficult business of being women, to discuss the trappings of performed femininity that would be uncomfortable to raise in the company of men covering acne blemishes, contouring one's face to appear slimmer, enjoying the art of disguise. Beauty vloggers strip away the layers of artifice shellacked onto any mainstream image of beauty. By that I mean that I have had bad skin since I was 10 years old acne, oil slicks, giant pores, scars, hyperpigmentation, the lot. I felt ashamed of the way I looked without make-up because I never saw anyone who looked like I did in any of the culture I consumed. Nothing has made me feel better about my skin than watching beauty vloggers. They appear bare-faced and unashamed of their acne, dark circles, pigmentation and blotchiness, disentangling the cultural myths that imply that beauty and virtue are synonymous, and they show, step by step, how the illusion is created. "Beauty", as understood by the broader culture, is largely trend-based and deeply connected to the cosmetic industry almost no one looks beautiful to the standards demanded by advertisements and popular culture without cosmetic help. As Dolly Parton says in Steel Magnolias: "Ain't no such thing as natural beauty." Loading Online make-up communities embody this philosophy entirely beauty is by nature artificial, and by recognising that truth we can disconnect beauty from inherent goodness or correctness, and connect it instead to skill, effort and ingenuity. Being beautiful is like carving castles out of eggshells: it's impressive, difficult, time-consuming, and not everyone wants to do it. But if you do want to, you can learn how. Now, sometimes, I leave the house without putting foundation on not because my skin is different, but because I'm no longer ashamed of it. I'd never have made this progress had I not seen the effort that goes into making those effortlessly beautiful women in magazines look the way they do. More importantly, beauty vloggers transcend physical boundaries like geography, which is important for many young women of colour in majority-white countries like Australia. It's still rare to see non-white faces in women's media, particularly in the context of make-up. When I asked my friends what they loved about YouTube beauty tutorials, this was the strongest response: the videos gave them a chance to see themselves. There are beauty vloggers of every race and creed, just as there are beauty vloggers of every skin quirk and eyebrow idiosyncrasy. For women who don't have representations of themselves elsewhere in their lives, YouTube videos can be life-changing. Look through the comments section on a beauty vlog and you'll see outpourings of admiration. The openness of this admiration is part of the appeal of these online spaces: here is a place in which women publicly demonstrate their care, affection and admiration for one another. In terms of spaces that allow women to access a form of femininity that encourages collaboration rather than competition, digital beauty communities are unique. Once I started to talk to other women about make-up online, it opened up channels in my real life as well. Now I talk to all my female friends about it. Make-up talk is coded as shallow, but it makes for deep connections. We talk about the tricky aspects of beauty; we tease apart the political mess of wanting to be pretty but maybe not wanting to want to be pretty; we get theoretical. I couldn't do the work I do on this topic without those women to work through things with me. Many of my friends tell me they feel something unusual after they watch beauty videos or engage with online beauty communities: they feel calm. I don't think it's just because beauty vloggers often have soothing voices. When friends Mary Lou Ryan and Deborah Sams launched their fashion label Bassike in 2006, they filled a niche calling for luxury T-shirts and organic cotton jerseys that didn't come with complicated care instructions. Along the way, their fuss-free brand became an iconic Aussie must-have with their dot T-shirt a firm favourite. Sarah Jessica Parker has stepped out in it and Gigi Hadid is a fan, too. Mary Lou and Deborah are proof that business and pleasure do mix, and that motherhood need not get in the way of entrepreneurial ambition. The business partners, who still holiday together, met 20 years ago while working as buyers for General Pants. Both moved to Ksubi [then Tsubi] before deciding to embark on a joint business venture. Its a nice place to be. We can be women in business and do things were passionate about." Credit:James Brickwood Bassike now employs 88 staff at its Sydney headquarters, and has 11 retail stores, including one that recently opened in Brisbane and a flagship store in Venice Beach, California. What was the inspiration behind starting the label? Jennifer's 1997 statement to police is hard to read. When she was eight, she was sent by her teacher to a seminary adjacent to her Catholic school in a southern suburb of Melbourne to carry out an errand. While she was looking for something in the chapel cupboard, a priest she didn't know approached her. "Jennifer" remembered nothing about the priest other than that he spoke with a thick Italian accent. Credit:Darrian Traynor After grabbing her, he pulled down her tights, raped her and then forced her to perform a sex act on him. "I can remember that he said I was bad and evil, and that I was naughty, and that God was watching me," she told police. She remembered nothing about the priest other than that he spoke with a thick Italian accent. The police investigated thoroughly. Jennifer said they were "fantastic". They believed her but, in the end, there was not enough evidence for a conviction. Jennifer's parents said the police had told them the chief suspect had been "moved back to Italy" and this had hampered the investigation. The police also said other people had made complaints about this priest. "They said if he were ever to enter the country again, he would be a person of interest to them," Jennifer's mother said. April 2013: Peter O'Callaghan QC gives testimony about the Melbourne Response at the Victorian parliamentary inquiry into the Handling of Child Abuse by Religious and other Non-government Organisations. Credit:Justin McManus The happy and outgoing child her parents had known changed virtually overnight. For a month afterwards she fiercely resisted going to school. Her parents were worried but never knew the reason for the change. In late 1997, Jennifer met the independent commissioner the Church had appointed, Peter O'Callaghan, QC, who ended up serving in the role for 20 years. She also met with the compensation panel and with Carelink, which was co-ordinating health services under the Melbourne Response. The process happened in fits and starts. Jennifer said she and her parents "had to instigate everything", though she also put things on hold herself for just under two years when she went to live overseas. You had to push and push and push. The only reason they took me seriously, I think, was because I went to the police. Her mother recalls the meeting with Mr O'Callaghan as professional but "very lawyerly". The process struck her as "trying to keep everything within the Church to limit the damage to the Church". "It didn't seem to take into any account the human damage that had been done." The Child Abuse Royal Commission made extensive criticisms of Pell's Melbourne Response along very similar lines to Jennifer's, including that it was "not sufficiently independent of the Archdiocese of Melbourne in its operation". Loading It concluded that a "scheme that is heavily dominated by lawyers and traditional legal process is unlikely to provide the most supportive environment for complainants". It found Mr O'Callaghan had discouraged two victims from going to the police. Jennifer and her parents are certain they never received a transcript of the interview with Mr O'Callaghan. It is not suggested that Mr O'Callaghan personally withheld from providing the transcript to Jennifer and her parents. If the archdiocese did fail to send a copy of the transcript, this would be a breach of the process. A spokesman for the Melbourne Archdiocese said that Jennifer had been legally represented throughout the process but did not comment specifically on whether a transcript had been sent. Mr O'Callaghan told the royal commission he had been "independent in all respects", making decisions "without fear or favour and without any influence from other persons". Jennifer reached the end of the Melbourne Response process more than three years after she told her parents about the rape. In 2000, she received a carefully worded pro forma letter from Pell offering her $25,000 as compensation along with a legal agreement that she drop the matter. "It is my hope that my offer ... will be accepted by you as a preferable alternative to legal proceedings and that it too will assist you with your future," Pell wrote. An earlier, harsher, version of the letter had warned victims the Church would "strenuously defend" any court proceedings. The royal commission found it was "inevitable" that such language would intimidate victims who might be considering pursuit of civil cases. Jennifer accepted the payment and understood the agreement to also impose a legal obligation on her not to talk about her abuse - one reason she hasn't spoken about her experience before. A Church lawyer acknowledged to the royal commission that some of the compensation paperwork could be read as legally compelling victims' silence, but insisted that this was not actually the case. Jennifer, who is now 40, has managed well, but the rape has changed her life, her mother says. She has a prominent role in the public service, which is part of the reason she has requested anonymity. But her personal relationships have suffered. She had a long-term male partner until recently, though her psychologist says there were unhealthy aspects to the relationship. The psychologist told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age the impact of the rape had been "profound and pervasive". Ribbons on the railings of St Patrick's Cathedral in Melbourne earlier this month, for the victims of sexual abuse by Catholic clergy. Credit:Simon Schluter The family remain astounded that no one senior from the Church - not their local priest, much less Pell - phoned or held a meeting with them. "We were known enough in the area and in the Church ... and we were just left out in the cold," Jennifer said. Two globalist Jews, having finished their lattes, are walking from the cafe to the Canberra Theatre when one says to the other: "You know, there were a good five people I hung out with who, if I saw their name in the news for that reason I wouldnt be surprised." John Safran Im with John Safran, comedian and author of Depends What You Mean By Extremist, a funny, cutting, much-cited inside account of far-something communities around Australia. As we talk about the 50 killed in Christchurch, and the 28-year old Australian who allegedly committed the act, he agonises over whether the worst is yet to come. Safran would know. For the book, he sidled up against Australias far-right once downing tequila shots with its Melbourne ringleaders after a Reclaim Australia rally and as a result, out of anyone in the country, he has some of the most intimate on-the-ground knowledge of the community. From the two minutes' silence across her nation on Friday to the gunman who shall not be named, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern showed us this past week that leadership is as much what you dont say as what you do. Our own Prime Minister Scott Morrison, despite loosening his tie and sitting down for a television interview with commentator Waleed Aly, could have taken some lessons out of the Ardern playbook. Not long before his interview on The Project, which can only be described as awkward and at times aggressive, the New Zealand first family had some news of their own. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern at the Al Noor Mosque for a national call to prayer on Friday. Credit:Jason South It was delivered in their trademark dont-tell-me-show-me style, which has become synonymous with the social media stream of this former DJ PM and her TV star partner, Clarke Gayford, host of Fish of the Day and stay-at-home father. It wasnt Arderns announcement in Christchurch that her country would ban all semi-automatic assault rifles in light of the massacre of 50 people in two mosques, welcome though that was, and applauded the world over by the likes of Hillary Clinton. It was back in the capital, Wellington. Liberal candidate Wendy Tuckerman was reluctant to call her seat of Goulburn on election night, despite outgoing MP Pru Goward making the prediction on Saturday evening. Speaking on Saturday at the party's campaign gathering, Mrs Tuckerman said while it was humbling to hear ABC election analyst Antony Green declare the seat for the Liberals, "there was still a long way to go". "The results won't be known until later and we have to wait until that happens," she said. Liberal Party candidate for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman (front left), Pru Goward (centre) and staffers celebrate at their campaign office on Saturday night. Credit:Louise Thrower As of Saturday evening, Mrs Tuckerman was sitting on 7988 first preference votes (40.27 per cent) to Labor candidate Dr Ursula Stephens on 5652 votes (28.49 per cent), according to the NSW Electoral Commission. A total 19,251 of the eligible 57,564 votes in the electorate have been counted. He was twice her age and often away at sea, but who could blame the teenage Sarah Cox for falling for the silver-tongued Captain John Payne. It is my sincere intention to make you a companion of my future life, he wrote in a love letter to Cox in 1822. The wedding of Gisela Stahl and Alfred Andre in the Snowy Mountains in 1958. Credit:NSW State Archives Payne began courting Cox when he was 34 and she was 16 years old after obtaining permission from her parents. However, he also lavished his affections on other women, according to Dr Penny Stannard, a senior curator at the NSW State Archives. Eventually, he would reaffirm his love for Sarah who, after chastising him, would accept him back. During their period of promise, Payne unexpectedly married a wealthy widow. 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. The agenda for the seminar is as follows: PEI Standardbred Symposium 10:30 a.m. - Welcome 10:35 a.m. - Spring Transition in Mares; Dr. Martha Mellish, Atlantic Veterinary College 11:05 a.m. - Preparing Your Mare for Foaling; Dr. Bill Best, Charlottetown Vet Clinic 11:30 a.m. - The Equine Industry and PEI Bio Alliance; Rory Francis, Executive Director PEI Bio Alliance Noon Lunch - Sponsored by PEI Lotteries Commission 12:45 p.m. - Highlights of PEI Harness Racing Sector Growth and Sustainability Study; Aaron Hansen, Grant Thornton 1:00 p.m. - Hon. Heath MacDonald, Minister of Finance and Minister Responsible for Harness Racing 1:15 p.m. - Atlantic Provinces Harness Racing Commission; Brett Revington, Director of Racing, APHRC 1:45 pm - Current Industry Trends and Issues 1. Red Shores Marketing Plan Lee Drake, Manager Marketing and Brands, Red Shores 2. Red Shores Wagering Adam Walsh , Racing Experience Manager, Red Shores (PEISHOA) Thanks for joining our live coverage of the 2019 NSW state election over the last two days. Counting has concluded for the day, with Lismore, East Hills and Dubbo still up in the air. On current numbers, Labor is expected to take Lismore, the Liberals East Hills and the Nationals Dubbo. Tallying will resume tomorrow. The upper house will likely not be finalised for a week, but Premier Gladys Berejiklian is already looking forward to her second term, having become NSW's first elected female premier as state political editor Alexandra Smith reports. The premier says the state will be "amazing" but acknowledges a "cry for help" from people in regional NSW. And Labor leader Michael Daley faces a potential challenge to his leadership. That's all for tonight. Goodnight. A man has been charged after a woman was grabbed by the throat and forced to sit in a chair during a forced entry at a house on Brisbane's southside. Police said the 53-year-old woman was in the lounge room at a Harlen Road residence at Salisbury when a man has forced open the front door about 12.05am on Saturday. The woman was then allegedly assaulted by the man she did not know who forced her to sit on a chair. She then yelled for help and other residents came to her aid as the man ran from the home and fled in a vehicle. One of the residents recorded the registration number and a short time later police found a man in the vehicle nearby. She reached land on Sunday afternoon and was over the coast just east of Roebourne and west of Port Hedland at 4pm. Communities on high alert Premier Mark McGowan briefed the media in Perth on Sunday afternoon, warning the storm was moving slower than most that had seen before, adding to the risks for locals. "It's also a very, very large storm, and one not to be underestimated," he said. "It's not one of those storms that's going to pass though quickly. "Be patient and sit tight. "It might be difficult, people will want to get out, but the advice is stay indoors, stay safe, make sure your children are kept safe, do everything you can to avoid going outside." Mr McGowan said the cyclone was different to those people in the Pilbara were used to. Wendy Van Dongen took this photo in Karratha during the yellow alert on Saturday. Credit:Wendy Van Dongen "The slow movement of the cyclone means that communities in the path of the cyclone should prepare to shelter from the destructive winds for an extended period tonight and Monday," a Bureau of Meteorology alert said. "Gales are likely to contract from the east including Port Hedland during Monday morning. "Widespread very heavy rainfall conducive to major flooding is likely over the Pilbara coast and adjacent inland areas today and Monday." Residents flee fierce storm Port Hedland resident Trent Morley told Radio 6PR he evacuated on Saturday. "It was a bit worrisome yesterday when we went through the high tide with the storm surge and the water came up pretty close to our house," he said. "We evacuated and moved in to another friend's house so we're all good now. "We're quite lucky to be prepared for this because we had a bit of warning, everyone had a good chance to make sure every box was ticked ... it's a bit intense now actually. "It's above 100km/hr, there's branches down - the most damaged property I can see is mostly vehicles. We've had a lot of rain this morning but in the last hour or so it's really started to crank up. "We're expecting it to really ramp up from now into the afternoon. At the moment it's just extra windy ... having lived in [Geraldton] for a few years, it's more than I've ever seen there. "It's just the constant howl coming through. The big thing is the unknown, you don't know how bad it's going to get ... it's getting pretty daunting to be honest. "It's the first time I've ever seen anything like this. We had a little episode two years ago but it was nothing like this - this is far more intense than anything else I've experienced." Nine News Perth reporter Jacquelin Robson described how the cyclone picked up up steam on Sunday. "I'm looking outside and the trees are bending over," she said. "I can't see the horizon it's all covered in fog, it's heavy rain. I think we saw about [170mm] of rain pour down last night, we're expecting 500mm over the entirety of the weekend. "There's sand blowing off the dunes, there's trees and branches floating around. "We are expecting those destructive winds to come through in the next three to six hours so that's when things will really get serious." Red alert remains for parts of the Pilbara A red alert remains in place for people in or near communities between DeGrey and Mardie, including Port Hedland, South Hedland, Whim Creek, Point Samson, Wickham, Roebourne, Karratha, Dampier but excluding Marble Bar, need to go to shelter immediately. It means there is now a threat to lives and homes and locals need to remain inside and shelter in the strongest, safest part of their house or evacuation centre. They must stay indoors until the all clear is given by authorities. A yellow alert is current for people in or near communities of Barrow Island, Pannawonica, Mardie and surrounding areas. Communities for parts of the inland Pilbara are on blue alert. Tropical Cyclone Veronica will track westwards, close to the Pilbara coast. It is currently producing destructive winds and heavy rainfall west of Port Hedland. Credit:Bureau of Meteorology at 5am Storm surge According to the Bureau of Meteorology, tropical cyclone Veronica will result in a significant storm surge along parts of the Pilbara coast. The bureau warned to expect very dangerous storm surge conditions, which could lead to coastal inundation along sections of the Pilbara coast east of Wickham. The storm is expected to bring tides up to four metres. Credit:Amy Blanco Tides are at the highest point this weekend which increases the risk of large storm tides. The surge may be up to four metres on top of the existing tide level, and flooding is likely as a result. DFES Superintendent John Newman warned those who live in this area it was too late to leave, and they need to shelter in the strongest part of their property. "People in the broader Port Hedland area need to clearly understand that gales will be developing in the Port Hedland area in the next few hours," he said. "This storm tide continues to be a very significant risk for us. The first high tide is scheduled for just before 1am [on Saturday]. A second high tide at 1pm tomorrow. A further at 1.30am the following morning. I cannot over-emphasise the hazards this represents." "I cannot under emphasise the hazard presented by this storm tide." People have been warned to stay indoors. Credit:DFES According to DFES, is likely that if flooded, power will be cut and if not live electricity could pose a risk to residents. Utilities like power and gas may be unavailable for an extended period of time following the event and residents should consider this when making their decision to stay or relocate. Port Hedland Mayor Camilo Blanco echoed Mr Newman's concerns about the storm surge. There is the potential for a very dangerous storm tide along the Pilbara coast over the weekend," he said. With a power outage, devices connected to the NBN might not work ... [for those not evacuating] it is essential you have battery-powered radios." State Emergency Service volunteers ran out of sandbags on Friday. An additional 1000 became available from mid-morning Saturday but WAtoday understands that these may have run out. Families have prepared for surging flood waters. Credit:Grace Fitzgibbon More than 4000 people live in the town, with hundreds of homes falling within the storm surge zone. To see the map on the DFES website click here (if you are on a mobile you may have to press and hold the link for five seconds). DFES has deployed 40 people including rescue personnel and State Emergency Service volunteers to the area and all the local SES and volunteer firefighters are preparing to assist. DFES has also contacted remote communities to assess their preparedness and WA Police, St John Ambulance and all relevant government agencies are also involved. Horizon Power advised its customers between Pardoo and Mardie should prepare for extended outages as crews are not able to restore power during a red alert. Staff at the BP service station on Balmoral road closed on Saturday evening. It was the last of the servos to close the doors in central Karratha. Credit:Grace Fitzgibbon Roads and closures The following roads are now closed. Reopening will be subject to cyclone damage and flooding assessments. Karratha-Tom Price Road (Warlu Road) both directions between Cherratta Road and North West Coastal Highway Madigan Road - Karratha Dampier Road - Karratha Point Samson-Roebourne Road North West Coastal Highway both directions 5km north of Roebourne (Roebourne turf club) to Great Northern Highway North West Coastal Highway both directions from Dewitt Road to Great Northern Highway Intersection Wilson Street both directions Great Northern Highway Port Hedland Great Northern Highway both directions between Auski Roadhouse Sandfire Roadhouse Marble Bar Road both directions from Great Northern Highway to Limestone-Marble Bar Road Marble Bar Ripon Hills Road in both directions Never drive into water of unknown depth and current. Visit www.mainroads.wa.gov.au to keep up to date. Pilbara ports have been evacuated and BHP has sent home all non-essential workers. Loading Karratha-Tom Price Road (Warlu Road) both directions between Cherratta Road and North West Coastal Highway are closed. Port Hedland Airport and Karratha Airport are now both closed. Karijini and Millstream Chichester national parks are closed. Police patrolling closed roads on Saturday. Credit:Grace Fitzgibbon Karratha and Hedland Health Campus emergency departments will continue to operate, as will Onslow Health Service, while Roebourne Hospital will be closed. Anyone with a pre-existing medical condition should be prepared with sufficient medication. If you are sick during a red alert, call Health Direct or 000 in case of emergency. Where to go Police have seized almost 4000 cannabis plants at a property north-east of Perth. Organised Crime Squad officers discovered the massive stash of drugs last week during a warrant at a property in Bambun, 88 kilometres north-east of Perth, just south of Gingin. Police seized almost 4000 plants at the property. Credit:WA Police Officers executed the warrant on the Sullivan Road property as part of their ongoing investigation into South East Asian organised crime syndicates and cannabis grow houses across the Perth metropolitan area. During the warrant officers seized 3972 cannabis plants, 50-60 kilograms of cannabis head material, a Ford transit van and a tractor. The PM really did attempt a very astute move nine days ago, which, as it turned out, didnt quite work. On the Friday before last, the well-loved TV journo and now Griffith Uni professor Stan Grant, was minding his own business at home when the phone rang. It was Scott Morrison, wondering if Stan would pop by Kirribilli House to have a chat that afternoon? Thanks for the offer, PM ... but Stan Grant declined the request to stand for the Liberal Party. Credit:ABC Yes, Prime Minister. The proposal the PM made, sitting in his study overlooking Sydney Harbour, was simple. Stan, we want you to run for the Liberal Party in the seat of Reid, which, as you know, Craig Laundy has announced he will not be re-contesting. We believe you can win it, and will put full resources behind you to do so. Stan thanked him for the offer, and told him he would need a week to think about it. There are many issues on which he has strong opinions and would love to have input, most particularly Indigenous affairs. On the other hand, he is not a member of any political party, let alone the Liberals, and if he did win there would be certain colleagues on the far right of the party he would not feel comfortable defending in the public domain. And so he wrestled with the question for the next week until, on Friday, he finally gave his answer. "Thank you, but no. Bugger. It was an honour to be asked by the Prime Minister, Stan tells me, but in the end that role is just not for me. I like what I am doing now, totally independently, and I dont have to make my views fit within a party framework. Gladys Berjiklian has been praised by her colleagues as she became the first female to be elected premier in NSW, delivering the Coalition a third term at a time when polling shows the federal Liberal Party as increasingly unpopular. The Liberals had only lost one seat during counting on Saturday night, the eastern suburbs electorate of Coogee - however East Hills and Penrith remained too to call. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian is greeted by Prime Minister Scott Morrison as she enters the ballroom of the Sofitel Wentworth for her victory celebrations. Credit:James Brickwood NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet praised his leader's qualities, saying the Liberals' success in being re-elected was due to Ms Berejiklian. "I think what Gladys has been able to successfully do in this election is talking about the other things, the significant infrastructure, that we're building across the state and the importance of that," told ABC TV. The Labor faithful gathered at Coogee to watch the results roll in on Saturday night, hopeful that after a bad final week of the campaign they still might have forced the Coalition into a minority government. At Coogee Bay Hotel, famous music venue Selina's had been decked out in Labor-red for the party's official election function. NSW Opposition Leader Michael Daley's election party at the Coogee Bay Hotel. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer That Labor strategists opted for a pub deep in the heart of Coogee MP Bruce Notley-Smiths electorate, rather than Mr Daley's own seat of Maroubra, was a show of confidence it would reclaim the seat. "If we don't win Coogee, what have we won?" one senior Labor party source remarked. Minister for Sport and for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres says he could "thank Michael Daley for his service" as he retained Penrith after fighting to hold his seat amid an intense focus on stadiums and the M4 throughout the state election campaign. Mr Ayres waited until 10.30pm on Saturday to confirm victory at the Panthers Penrith Leagues Club as the seat remained too close to call for most of the night, and early counting showed a small swing to Labor candidate Karen McKeown. "We knew how important this seat was," he said as he acknowledged whoever won Penrith was likely to win government. Marise Payne with Stuart Ayres at Jamison High School. Credit:Louise Kennerley Mr Ayres agreed his retention of the government's third most marginal seat vindicated its infrastructure policy, and said people in the electorate "know if they want better infrastructure they have to pay for it". Pro-British marchers were angry at the Russian migrants, many of whom had fled Russian prison camps and Siberian gulags after the failed Russian uprising of 1905. This was more than a decade before the 1917 Russian revolution. They made their way to Brisbanes ports as refugee migrants on board steamships from Asia. South Brisbane was a working class suburb with many wharves and boarding houses at the turn of the century. It remained like that almost until it was transformed for World Expo 88. Brisbanes Russian community at the time was led by Captain Alexander Zuzenko, who was clearly trying to spread the Bolsheviks' success in Australia. According to fellow historian Kevin Windle, Zuzenko a journalist and mariner by trade came to Brisbane in 1911, helped form the Communist Party of Australia and helped organise the rallies before being deported. Zuzenko's argument was that Australia was the "weakest link in the British imperial pantheon." Between pro-British and pro-Russian supporters that day were hundreds of Queensland police - many on horseback armed with bayonets. Police with bayonets stood between armed pro-British protesters and Russian refugees on the streets of South Brisbane in the Red Flag riots of 1919. Credit:State Library of Queensland. Police fought for their lives between the two bitterly opposed groups along South Brisbanes Melbourne and Merivale streets, where the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre is today. More than 100 protesters both Russian and pro-British were stabbed by bayonets, 19 police were seriously injured and several horses were badly injured. One troopers horse, shot by nine bullets, had to be destroyed. Miraculously no one was killed. Retired University of Queensland historian Professor Raymond Evans wrote of the riot in his books The Red Flag Riots: A Study of Intolerance in 1988 and Radical Brisbane: An Unruly History in 2004. The shrill cries of frightened and wounded animals, the clatter of hooves on asphalt, the thunder of running feet, the crack of whips, breaking glass, the whack and thud of palings and rifle butts and the yells, groans and curses of people stabbed by bayonets, he wrote. On March 24, when the 8000 marchers ran yelling and chanting pro-British songs and slogans over the Victoria Bridge, led by a marcher with an Australian flag, it was the culmination of months of tension between the two groups. The day before pro-British returned soldiers taunted the union-backed Russian migrants at Brisbanes Domain near the Queensland Parliament building where the Queensland University of Technology stands today. Later that same evening the two groups clashed near the Brisbane River at North Quay where refugees and pro-civil liberties groups were speaking. I think it is a very sobering reminder of what hatred in society can lead to. UQ Professor Raymond Evans. They used to have a big platform big speakers platform and the returned soldiers rushed the big platform and threw it down into the river and started beating up the Russians, Professor Evans said. One Russian man got very badly stabbed and they were trying to thrown him to the river," he said. Hundreds of Russians ran back over the bridge towards the Merivale Street Hall, chased by pro-British supporters and returned soldiers. The Russians reached their hall first and armed themselves with rifles. They fired some warning shots and that deterred the smaller group of returned soldiers from pursuing them, Professor Evans said. Captain Alexander Zuzenko, who arrived in Brisbane in 1911 from Riga to lead Brisbane's Red Flag Riots. He later founded the Communist Party in Australia before being deported from Australia twice. Collectively these skirmishes became known as Brisbanes Red Flag Riots of 1919. In Radical Brisbane, Professor Evans described how the local politics inflamed the situation. During 1918 these had taken on a more politically focussed character as local fears of a Bolshevik revolution connected 'anti-alien' with 'anti-radical' hysteria," he said. Feeding the mounting frenzy was the local conservative press, principally The Brisbane Courier and the Daily Mail, depicting revolutionary Russians as 'Bolshevik swine', 'guilty of repulsive beastiality, lawlessness and lust'." Arguably those papers were reflecting the mood of the times. The union movement had its own papers; The Daily Standard and The Worker. Evans also noted 70,000 people had signed up to a pro-British group that called itself the Australian Democratic Union, run by the former president of the prestigious Queensland Club, Dr Ernest Sandford-Jones. Now retired, Professor Evans said Brisbane authorities in 1919 like many other western countries was worried the 1917 Russian Revolution could take seed in Australia. Which, of course was not really feasible, but you know how things can get stirred up into an extreme position, he said this week. So Commonwealth authorities were conducting surveillance against radicals and leftists and non-British foreigners in Australia. Particularly the Russian migrants who had come here. He said many of these politicised refugees had escaped horrible conditions. Its an amazing story. They had escaped, quite often from Czarist political prisons and gulags (forced work camps) and travelled across Asia and come out on to ships coming to the Queensland area. Several thousand of them had migrated to Queensland before 1919. Professor Evans believes Brisbanes Red Flag riots even though they occurred 100 years ago - are still a very important part of Queenslands and Australias modern history. These riots and this agitation was basically against refugees, he said. Digital voice assistants Siri, Alexa, Cortana and Google Assistant all have something in common: they have female voices by default. Enter Q, a new genderless voice assistant with a voice frequency of 145HZ - considered to be a neutral pitch that is neither male nor female. Q debuted at technology and culture conference SXSW in Austin, Texas last week as a pitch for the biggest creators of voice assistants - Google, Apple, Microsoft and Amazon - to add a gender-neutral option to their platforms. The tool is a collaboration between five international organisations - advocacy groups Equal AI and Copenhagen Pride, creative agencies Virtue and Koalition and sound studio Thirty Sounds Good. Gonoforum President Dr. Kamal Hossain speaking at a press conference organised by Gonoforum at the Jatiya Press Club on Saturday demanding safe road. Beijing: When author Morris Gleitzman ended his talk at a Beijing community library by showing a list of Australians who write books that children love, the Chinese parents leapt to their feet with smartphones to photograph it. The worlds biggest book publishing market thrives on personal recommendations. School book lists are tightly controlled by the government in China, as are book publishing licences. But the voracious readers who are fuelling a revival in physical bookstores, and a rush by western publishing houses to translate childrens titles into Chinese, take their cues elsewhere. It is social media influencers that often inspire the book choices Chinese parents make. Loading One: Persistence isnt a virtue in itself. If I turned a corner and ran headfirst into a brick wall I shouldnt win praise for saying "well, Ill just duck my head and run faster next time". Two: Look at what she has actually done, which is not very good. Three: Look at what shes threatening to do next, which is not very good. In the last week, May did what she had flatly denied 108 times to the UK parliament she would do: seek to delay Brexit. Even if you consider this the best result in the circumstances, that doesnt change the political point: if you insist youre not going to do something for a very long time then do it, why should anyone believe your claims about what youll do next? You may never bluff again, and even if you dont, or weren't the first time, people will suspect you do and did. May fell into the utterly foreseeable hole she had dug for herself. Then on Wednesday night, after deciding on a delay, May addressed the nation from Number 10 and blamed it on MPs "playing political games" and holding "arcane procedural rows". "Im with you," she told voters. Politicians who pretend not to be politicians are everywhere these days, but for a countrys elected leader to pretend she isnt one is next-level bullshit. May played a lead role in the Commons farce. Just a week before, she voted against her own motion to reject a no deal Brexit after it was amended in a way that amounted to nothing of any consequence, to make a political point that was lost anyway in the chaos. The next day she voted for the delay she had vowed wouldnt happen. Loading And Mays criticism went down a treat with her parliamentary colleagues, who all believe theyre personally doing a terrific job (narrators voice: they arent) and its just the other MPs letting the country down. Sure, May was annoyed by the Commons hopeless paralysis and inability to vote for anything that would bring substantial progress on Brexit. Who wouldnt be? But why hold a press conference to say that, and pretty much only that, precisely when she most needs to get more MPs on side in order to get the Brexit she presumably still wants? One Cabinet minister reportedly called it "the most inept performance of a Downing Street of all time". Then there was Mays work in Brussels on Thursday, as she tried to persuade EU leaders to agree to delay Brexit. Reports from inside the room included her being "evasive, had no plan and even seemed confused", and one EU prime minister said "the only thing that came through with clarity was her lack of a plan". In the end they literally wrote one for her. So shes not been great recently. British Prime Minister Theresa May speaks with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker during a round table meeting at an EU summit in Brussels on Thursday. Credit:AP Before that, she was also not great. When the divorce deal she did with the EU was obviously going to be rejected by the Commons in December, she put off the vote. When it was eventually voted on and lost, badly, she brought it back for another vote with a handful of legal footnotes, and it was unsurprisingly voted down again. The identical deal will likely be voted down again next week. And all the time the country got closer to a no-deal Brexit. May is not the only person in this game whose idea of compromise is to insist the other person give in, but its a hell of a game to play for someone whose job is to have the countrys best interests at heart. A no-deal Brexit is predicted to be a Global Financial Crisis-level blow to the economy with the loss of thousands of jobs. May has given no reason to believe she doubts this, and yet she has insisted it is the only alternative she will accept to ratifying her deal. And she is going to keep pressing her opponents up against this dilemma until something cracks. Even if this cliff-edge brinkmanship works, and hardcore Brexiters or the DUP or Labour fold, it was a hell of a risk to play with a lot of peoples livelihoods and the countrys future. Nevertheless, May kept doggedly maneuvering towards a binary choice between her deal or no deal, with the real and rising chance it might be the latter. Consensus, to her, means consent. Which is a fine political tactic from a position of power, not so much for a PM of a minority government pushing a policy that polls show the country hates. Contrast the other EU national leaders in Brussels on Thursday: 27 very different leaders in personality and politics, who began the evening in what sounds like serious disagreement on a Brexit delay then reached unanimity on a new common ground a few hours later, after a nice meal of duckling a l'Orange. Is there a way May could achieve this in the UK? She has barely even tried to find out. There have been repeated attempts to try to set up a process by which the Commons can hold a series of indicative votes to determine the sort of Brexit it would be prepared to compromise on. Loading There has also been, reportedly, a compromise offered by the opposition in which it would vote her deal through on the condition the public get a final say. There has been an attempt to soften the deal into a Brexit that the EU would likely accept: remaining within its customs union. May rejected all these, because of what she claims was the motivation of the majority in the 2016 Brexit vote, which she insists is a matter of fact rather than just her opinion (in the last few days she has finally accepted the need for indicative votes, but has not yet committed to be bound by them). There have been a few token meetings with opposition party leaders and Tory opponents, but they came out reporting May just used them to rehearse arguments she had made already in public. Why is/was she so intransigent? Its hardly that shes so enamoured with her own deal; shes talked it down herself, calling it a compromise and the best available in the circumstances. The real reason is probably that, unless it was in absolute extremis (and possibly even then), even entertaining the chance of a soft Brexit or a revocation of Brexit could tear Mays party apart and possibly end her premiership. So instead she pressed the country to the brink of a no-deal Brexit, because apparently the risk of ructions in the Conservative Party is much worse than the risk of screwing the country. Deliberately or, to be generous, in effect she put her political interest above that of the country. Not what youd hope from a leader in a big crisis. And is she even good at being a partisan party leader? Not according to former Conservative MP, now Times columnist Matthew Parris: Loading "Time and again my informants MPs, former MPs, civil servants, special advisers tell me, eyes flashing, that [May is] not normal. Shes extraordinary. Extraordinarily uncommunicative; extraordinarily rude in the way she blanks people, ideas and arguments. "Theresa May, they tell me (in a couple of cases actually shouting) is the Death Star of modern British politics. a political black hole." None of this is to say Jeremy Corbyn and Labour have helped in any way. Thats the topic for another rant. But theyre the opposition. Brexit is not their project and theres no reason why they should help May commit the country to self-harm. Finally, this whole situation could probably have been avoided if it werent for May's colossal mistake two years ago. New York: During winter in New York, Australian expats take solace where we can find it. As friends back home post dreamy photographs from the beach, we are here in thermals questioning our life choices. The first flurries of snow are magical, no doubt, but the novelty fades. As the temperature plunges to 20 degrees below zero, the colour seems to fade from the once-vibrant city streets. People withdraw into themselves, hibernating until the Great Thaw arrives. I have survived this winter thanks, in no small part, to the Russian and Turkish baths, a historic underground sauna in Manhattan's East Village. The baths have been operating since 1892, making only minimal concessions to modernity in the intervening 127 years. Mueller's decision to issue a final report indicates that he chose not to indict other major figures in his investigation, including members of Trump's family and the president. However, if he secured any indictments under seal, they could be handed off to other elements of the Justice Department, such as a US attorney's office. Mueller's report could be politically disastrous for Trump if the special counsel says he uncovered evidence that would justify a congressional move to impeach the president - and it's sure to be claimed as vindication by the president if he doesn't. Even so, Trump isn't necessarily in the clear. He also faces continuing risk from other investigations, with federal prosecutors in New York looking into his company, presidential campaign and inaugural committee. Mueller has been sharing some matters and handing off others to US attorney's offices in Manhattan; Alexandria, Virginia; and Washington, as well as the Justice Department's national security division, giving cases that touch on his personal and business affairs a longer lease on life. Nor is it certain that others close to the president - including Donald Trump Jr., who met with a Russian lawyer after being promised dirt on Clinton - are out of jeopardy. Other prosecutors may well be pursuing investigations related to them. Barr's Decision During Barr's confirmation hearing in February, he said Mueller's report would be confidential while "the report that goes public would be a report by the attorney general." He suggested that he might exclude criticism of Trump as inappropriate for any such public report because Justice Department guidelines argue against indicting a sitting president. US Attorney-General William Barr has suggested that he might exclude criticism of Trump as inappropriate for a public report. Credit:AP "If you're not going to indict someone, then you don't stand up there and unload negative information about the person," he said. The Justice Department probably won't want to release the names of people that Mueller investigated but didn't charge. Material related to ongoing law enforcement operations, grand jury proceedings or classified intelligence programs is also expected to be withheld from the public. Ultimately, the Supreme Court may decide the fate of Mueller's findings. Trump and his lawyers have indicated they want the opportunity to issue a rebuttal on anything damaging to the president and to assert executive privilege over any disclosures of his actions during the presidential transition and the presidency. Loading But congressional Democrats - who now control the House - say they want broad disclosure of Mueller's investigative work, citing the earlier success of Republicans in pressuring the Justice Department to release details they said showed anti-Trump bias in the FBI. They have talked of issuing subpoenas to force disclosure and even public testimony by Mueller. "We're going to insist on the underlying evidence," Representative Adam Schiff, the Democratic chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, said in February on ABC's This Week. "If you take the position that the president cannot be indicted, and the only remedy for improper, illegal or other conduct is impeachment, then you cannot withhold that information from Congress, or essentially the president has immunity," he said. Trump told reporters on Wednesday that he, too, wants Mueller's report made public. "Let it come out," he said. "Let people see it." Collusion, Obstruction Mueller, a former FBI director, was appointed in May 2017 to conduct one of the most consequential investigations in US history. Beyond Russia's election meddling - which US intelligence agencies found was aimed at hurting Clinton and ultimately at helping Trump win - Mueller has been probing possible collusion in the operation and whether Trump sought to obstruct justice. In particular, Mueller investigated Trump's efforts to get then-FBI Director James Comey to drop an investigation into his first national security adviser, Michael Flynn. Mueller also investigated whether Trump's decision to fire Comey in May 2017 constituted obstruction of justice. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein appointed Mueller as special counsel days after Comey's firing. While Trump has often tweeted that "NO COLLUSION!" with Russia has been found, Mueller's inquiry has resulted in indictments of figures including the president's longtime adviser Roger Stone. Roger Stone, former campaign adviser for President Donald Trump. Credit:AP Mueller indicted and convicted Manafort, Trump's former campaign chairman, for a series of financial crimes, and Manafort has been sentenced to 7 years in prison. He also secured guilty pleas and cooperation agreements from Flynn and Trump's deputy campaign chairman Richard Gates and he worked with federal prosecutors in New York who secured a deal with former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen. Mueller's investigation cost about $US25 million ($35 million) from his appointment in May 2017 through September 2018, according to the latest figures, provided by the Justice Department in December. It's been a fast-paced project compared to other major investigations of sitting presidents. Independent Counsel Kenneth Starr spent four years investigating President Bill Clinton before releasing his 1998 report on the Monica Lewinsky affair, which spun out of a probe into an Arkansas land deal known as Whitewater. The length and cost of that inquiry - and Starr's public release of a report with sexually explicit details about Clinton's relations with Lewinsky, an intern - contributed to Congress letting the law authorising independent counsels expire. Mueller was named under a less expansive Justice Department regulation providing for special counsels. Many victims in Christchurch had sought just that leaving Somalia, Pakistan, Syria or Afghanistan for a better life, often with little in their pockets. Abdelhalim spoke of the city as a dream made real. In Cairo, Abdelhalim said, he'd worked as a judge specialising in inheritance and tenancy cases. He lived in a well-heeled suburb, his parents a teacher and a government employee, his brother an officer in the Egyptian military. But he did not see the future he wanted for his three children in Egypt. Cairo had witnessed a president being assassinated by Islamic militants in 1981, and a string of bombs exploding in and around the city in 1993. So the family moved to Christchurch, and Abdelhalim took the only job he could find, as a clerk at Work and Income, the government agency for employment services and financial assistance. "I tried to study law, but found it was very hard to begin again," he said. Nevertheless, his children were going to good schools and his family moved into a small brick home, where he still lives, with roses in the well-trimmed yard. A neighbour invited him over for tea, he said, "nearly every day." The family got to know the woman at the post office, a local shopkeeper and just about everyone else. Far from the chaos of Cairo, Christchurch is a place where men in straw hats and vests take tourists down the placid waters of the Avon River. It is a city of parks with birds chirping and a streetcar clanking past Cathedral Square. Loading Abdelhalim's life grew along with the city. He opened a restaurant, named for his old home, Cairo. He became active in the Muslim community, working as the imam at a mosque called Al Noor. When terrorists flew planes into the World Trade Centre in New York in September 2001, Abdelhalim was the head of a local Islamic association. At the time, he said, there was a flare up of young people yelling at Muslims and trying to grab women's headscarves. Abdelhalim responded by organising community events at the mosque. In 2017, he took part in opening a multi-faith prayer space at the airport. "My only weapon," he said, "is my tongue." He also helped start and agreed to be the imam, the religious leader, of the Linwood mosque as its doors opened early last year, though it was across the city from his house. The building, a former community centre, sits amid signs for the Salvation Army, a pawnshop, the Super Liquor and the Value Mart. Its presence was a marker of growth in the city's still-small Muslim community. A policeman stands guard at the Al Noor Mosque early on Friday morning. Credit:Jason South It was at another mosque, Al Noor, that the gunman first began shooting. He shot at men, women and children, taking more than 40 lives there. The gunman then got into his car and drove to Linwood, where Abdelhalim, a man with a carefully cut white beard, was beginning to pray. In the back of the mosque, a 27-year-old man from Afghanistan named Ahmed Khan peeked out a window. The plump-faced Khan and his family had arrived in Christchurch 12 years earlier, leaving behind a nation torn by war. "Someone called 'help!' and when I looked out the window, somebody was laying down, bleeding," he said. Khan's eyes flitted across the driveway and spotted a strange figure a man wearing a helmet, standing in broad daylight with a rifle in his hands. The man squeezed the trigger, Khan said, and a bullet flew through the window. Khan recalls calling out, "There's someone with a gun!" In the prayer area, where Abdelhalim had stood reciting holy words just moments before, people flung themselves on the ground in panic. Khan recalls cradling a man in his arms one moment and then, the next, the gunman "shot him when I was holding him, in the head. And he was dead." There was another man in the room who rushed toward the door. In the gunfire that followed, seven people were killed. Khan said the toll almost certainly would have been higher if this man - Abdul Aziz, a short, muscular man who runs a furniture shop - hadn't confronted the shooter. Loading Aziz grabbed a credit card machine and hurled it at the gunman, dodging bullets. He later chased the gunman with an unloaded shotgun that the shooter dropped as he went back for another weapon, then hurled it like a spear through his car window. With four of his children in the mosque, Aziz later said, he acted to protect his own piece of adopted homeland. "I didn't know where my own kids were if they are alive, if they are dead," he said. They'd survived, with one of his sons laid over a younger brother, protecting the smaller boy's body with his own. Abdelhalim's wife and son also made it out alive. Now, in the aftermath of 50 dead in his city, Abdelhalim is trying to keep his family and his people together. They are left to navigate an issue that has confronted communities around the world after mass shootings: How, in the midst of suffering and rage, does normalcy and the peace they once knew return, if at all? The world's tallest building has been lit up with a giant image of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern embracing a woman at the Kilbirnie Mosque in Wellington. The Burj Khalifa, an 829-metre-tall skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, beamed out a photo taken by Wellington photographer Hagen Hopkins, as well as the Arabic word "salam" and its English translation, "peace". Sheik Mohammed, the Prime Minister and Vice-President of the UAE, and ruler of the emirate of Dubai, tweeted an image with a message of support and thanks for New Zealand. "New Zealand today fell silent in honour of the mosque attacks' martyrs. Thank you PM Jacinda Ardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world." Sign up for our PoliticsNY newsletter for the latest coverage and to stay informed about the 2021 elections in your district and across NYC Words picks: Girls Burn Brighter, by Shobha Rao Every single time that I had to leave Raos debut novel, I found myself counting down the seconds until I could get back to it! A beautifully written story of two best friends, who meet as teenage girls in a small village in India, are separated by a tragic incident, and who endure much more tragedy in the journey to reconnect with one another. Be prepared to be angry, to cry, and to want to grab Savitha and Poornima and hold them tight. Jeff Waxman, Word [126 Franklin St. at Milton Street in Greenpoint, (718) 3830096, www.wordbookstores.com]. Community Bookstores pick: Milkman, by Anna Burns Set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles of the 1970s, Anna Burnss Man Booker Prize-winning novel explores the paranoia, repression, and near-surreal dislocation of living in a community at war with itself. Rigorous and distilled in its prose and structure, Burns claims a place beside Joyce and Beckett as one of the Emerald Isles all-time greats. Samuel Partal, Community Bookstore [43 Seventh Ave. between Carroll Street and Garfield Place in Park Slope, (718) 7833075, www.communitybookstore.net]. Greenlight Bookstores pick: Machines Like Me, by Ian McEwan Ian McEwans new novel is set in an alternative 1980s, where technology is much more advanced and Britain has just lost the Falklands War. Our protagonist finds himself in a love triangle with the girl of his dreams and the very-close-to-human robot he has just purchased. This is one of the wittiest pieces of speculative fiction I have read in a long while, and McEwans thoughts are a joy to wade through. Of course weve seen robots gain sentience in countless books and movies, but we have not yet encountered the likes of Ian McEwans Adam an endlessly complex and fascinating character. Sarah Goewey, Greenlight Bookstore [686 Fulton St. between S. Elliott Place and S. Portland Avenue in Fort Greene, (718) 2460200, www.greenlightbookstore.com]. 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. 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. 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Digital Editor Crisis-hit Jet Airways' lenders struggle for consensus on revival plan The lenders to Jet Airways are yet to come to an agreement on firming up a rescue package for the airline, which is left with a skeleton fleet. While State Bank of India (SBI), leader of the lenders consortium, is working overtime to arrange emergency funds, many other banks are resisting such a move. After a meeting of banks on Friday on ways to make funds available immediately, a source in the know said lenders other than SBI and Punjab National Bank had not come on board so far to chip in with their ... The Narendra Modi-led NDA government is all set to showcase the progress of its 100 smart cities initiative to woo the urban middle class this election season. According to sources, the Centre would be talking about the work that has been done as well as the projects that are being planned in these 100 cities. During its campaigns, the party will explain how cities will get transformed over the next five years. Many of the brownfield projects are slated to start taking off after the polls. The smart cities initiative is primarily aimed at the aspirational middle class. They ... How do you see the national outcome in 2019? The party learnt its lesson from the 2014 elections, recognising there was too much fragmentation of the vote. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power on the back of just 31 per cent of the vote. So the remaining 65 per cent or so was against the BJP but it got scattered. The lesson for the opposition was: Dont let the vote get scattered. So opposition strategy was one candidate against one Hindutva candidate. Initially, when people talked about a mahagathbandhan, they said it was necessary to project a leader of the ... Rajat Gupta had been moved to a larger part of the prison when he came face to face with his nemesis, Raj Rajaratnam. Mr. Rajaratnam, a disgraced hedge fund manager, hadnt always been Mr. Guptas nemesis. For a long time, they were close so close that a jury was convinced Mr. Gupta had slipped him boardroom secrets so that Mr. Rajaratnam could trade on inside information. Mr. Gupta once a member of the financial elite as the head of McKinsey, a board member of Goldman Sachs and an adviser to Bill Gates had been convicted of securities fraud in ... US Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday appeared to end his probe without bringing criminal charges against several individuals he had investigated, including advisers and family members of President Donald Trump accused by Democratic lawmakers of not fully disclosing contacts with Russians. Mueller handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election to US Attorney General William Barr, who will decide how much of it to make public. ALSO READ: Mueller seeks tough sentence for Trump's former campaign ... It isnt how much you make but how much you keep. Most investors grasp that concept when it comes to their own finances, but they also need to consider how it applies to the companies they own. A long-term tailwind to stocks from expanding profit margins is at risk of flipping into reverse. Steady increases in margins have been the stock markets secret sauce since the 1980s, allowing earnings to grow at a much faster clip than sales and pushing share prices higher as a result. If profit margins were merely to return to their levels of 20 years ago, then ... Veteran actor Sridevi was posthumously conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 64th Filmfare Awards here on Saturday. The award was received by the late actor's husband Boney Kapoor and their two daughters - Janhvi and Khushi. Sridevi, who entered the world of films at the age of four as a child artist, passed away in February last year after she accidentally drowned in a bathtub at her hotel room in Dubai. In a career spanning five decades, Sridevi was known for her portrayals of women in challenging situations, and she has appeared in a range of genres, from slapstick comedy to epic dramas. She is known for films such as 'Himmatwala,' 'Mr. India,' ' ChaalBaaz,' 'Sadma,' 'Nagina,' and 'English Vinglish', among others. 'Mom' was Sridevi's last film as a lead actor, while she had a brief cameo in 2018 film 'Zero', starring Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma. Sridevi had already shot her scenes for 'Zero' before she passed away in February 2018. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Four people were killed and 31 sustained injuries in twin blasts in a stadium in Afghanistan's Lashkar Gah on Saturday. According to the Aljazeera, two bombs went off during a function organised to celebrate Farmers' day. Reportedly, 1000 people were present during the event. Few important political leaders were also present during the event. Taliban has claimed the responsibility of the attack Condemning the attack, Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, "The terrorists are the enemies of peoples' bright future and development, they are attacking civilian installations, gatherings, and occasions to spread fear and horror, and to hide their defeats on the battlefront." Taliban's attack has come amid the peace talks carried out by the United States in an effort to end 17 years of war. US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction Khalilzad Zalmay in January claimed that the democratically elected government only control half of the country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Armed men on Saturday blew up a portion of a gas pipeline in Pir Koh area of Dera Bugti district in Balochistan province, suspending supply from Pirkoh gas filed to several cities of Punjab province. According to Levies sources, the explosive device was fixed with the 28-inch gas pipeline connecting Pir Koh with the Sui plant. The device, detonated by remote control, exploded with a loud noise. "As a result of the explosion, a portion of the pipeline had been destroyed and gas supply from Pir Koh to Sui and cities of Punjab was suspended," they said. The attack took place about few hundred meters from a base of Pakistan paramilitary forces. Baloch Republican Army spokesperson Sarbaaz Baloch claimed responsibility for blowing up the gas pipeline. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) on Saturday questioned Congress president Rahul Gandhi about his source of income while alleging that his assets have grown from Rs 55,38,123 in 2004 to Rs 9 crore in 2014. "In 2004, Rahul declared in election affidavit that his income is Rs 55,38,123. This became 2 crore rupees in 2009 and 9 crores in 2014 elections. Rahul Gandhi, please tell us what is this model of development? What is the ostensible source of income that from a mere Rs 55.38 lakh in 2004, your asset grew to Rs 9 crore in 2014?" Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said while addressing a press conference here. "BJP would like to know, what were those factors which led to an extraordinary jump in Rahul's income from mere 55 lakhs to 9 crore?" the Union Minister added. Taking a jibe at the Gandhi family, Prasad said, "There is a lot of discussion on development. We have seen a Vadra model of development where you invest 6-7 lakhs and become the owner of 700-800 crore in two-three years. Now, we are also seeing a Rahul model of development. Rahul is an MP and his source of income is the salary of a parliamentarian. There is no other visible source of income from him." Prasad further alleged that Rahul has bought two properties from Unitech, a company whose promoters have been jailed in connection to the 2G scam. Terming the judgment of a trial court as "legally unsound" and "morally improper", Prasad said, "Judge commented that I (judge) was waiting for evidence from seven-eight years but no evidence was presented to him. Is there a connection between this property purchase and no evidence (presented before the court)?" Prasad posed the question to Rahul while saying that his party would like the Congres president to deny it. Prasad also claimed that most of the trials in 2G case happened before the NDA government came to power. The Union Minister even levelled allegations against Rahul's sister and the eastern UP general secretary of the Congress, Priyanka Gandhi. "Rahul and Priyanka own a 4.5-acre farmhouse which they had rented to Financial Technologies of India, the same company which was issued show cause notice in the case related to Spot Exchange Limited. NSEL was promoted by Financial Technologies of India. FTIL issued an interest-free cheque of Rs 40 lakh," Prasad alleged. Denying the charges levelled against senior BJP leaders, Prasad said, "Yesterday, we had exposed them about the fake diary related to BS Yeddyurappa which was given by Congress leader DK Shivkumar himself during an Income Tax raid. He (Shivkumar) could not prove it and later said that I don't possess the originals of these documents". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Terming Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks on Ram Manohar Lohia as an "election gimmick", Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday alleged BJP, the "most casteist party" in the country, should not give out lessons on the principles of socialism. Reacting to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement earlier today that opposition parties were betraying principles of Ram Manohar Lohia, Yadav said: "We do not want to learn from BJP. They should not teach us. As elections are approaching and BJP does not have its own leaders so they want to claim every other leader into their party." "BJP is the most casteist party in the country. But this year the country is ready to avenge and they will throw them out of power," Akhilesh told ANI. Asking BJP to tell people the benefit of demonetisation and GST, Akhilesh said, "Today India stands last in employment, gender equality and many other issues. If Lohia ji was alive, he would have protested against BJP policies and " In a blog titled "Remembering Dr. Lohia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday wrote, "Dr Lohia would be horrified at the political developments taking place...Those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic Maha Milawat or adulteration alliances with the same Congress. It is both ironical and reprehensible." Prime Minister Modi exclaimed that 130 crore Indians face a moot question today, which he said was, "How can those who betrayed Dr Lohia be expected to serve the nation?" "Today they are betraying the principles of Dr Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India," wrote Prime Minister Modi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A tourist bus suddenly caught fire on a highway in Hunan Province of Central China, late on Friday, killing 26 people and injuring 28 others, local authorities said. Xinhua news agency confirmed that the injured, including five in critical condition, were rushed to three local hospitals for treatment, after quoting the publicity department of China's Hunan Provincial Committee. The 59-seater bus, with 56 people on board, including 53 passengers, two drivers and a tour guide, was travelling from Hunan province in Central China to Hanshou County in Changde city. An investigation was immediately launched by the police who detained the two bus drivers after the accident was reported. Further details are awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Aam Aadmi Party has rejected the claims of Delhi Police that it merely changed the venue of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's public meeting at Shakur Basti on Saturday. "It's completely false. First, police cancelled the original public meeting venue for no reason. Our team kept pleading with the District Magistrate till late Sunday evening, but when nothing happened the party was forced to cancel this meeting," AAP said in a statement. Terming the decision of Delhi Police as politically biased, the party has warned of registering a 'strong protest' before the Election Commission of India against the decision of "Modi Police." "It is only after the CM's tweet today that as a face-saver the Delhi Police said it has allowed an alternate venue today afternoon. It is a farce and the Delhi Police are only trying to cover-up its politically biased decision after the AAP exposed it," the statement said. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Kejriwal tweeted: "BJP gets my public rally cancelled today through police. Police denies permission. How many BJP rallies were denied permission by police in Delhi in last 5 yrs?" The Chief Minister further asked the BJP to concede that they were losing all the seven seats in New Delhi. "Accept that you (BJP) are losing all the seven seats in New Delhi. Modi did not fulfill the promise to grant full statehood to Delhi. Now, people will teach a lesson," Kejriwal said in the tweet. The Lok Sabha for all seven seats in Delhi is scheduled to be held in a single phase on May 12. The results of the election will be declared on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Crime Branch of Delhi Police on Saturday claimed to have busted a gang of ATM burglars by apprehending two members of the gang--Narender and Deshraj. On specific inputs, they were nabbed from a government school near Nasirpur village. The gang was busted by Special Team for Active Robbers and Snatchers (STAR-I) of the Crime Branch. The arrested duo are residents of Rohtak district in Haryana and are accused in seven cases related to ATM burglary in Delhi and NCR area. In a press statement, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) G Ram Gopal Naik said: "Several incidents of ATM burglary have been reported in the outskirt of Delhi, Gurugram, and Rohtak. One such incident was reported in Jaffarpur Kalan area in Delhi a while back." Acting on the complaint, a team of STAR-I kept a watch over the suspected criminals in Delhi-NCR region and after going through the modus operandi of these types of incidents, a team under the leadership of Inspector Arun Chauhan was formed to bust the gang. "During interrogation, the accused disclosed that they along with their friends targeted specific isolated ATMs and removed the whole machines with the help of gas cutters. They later shifted the machines to Kalawad in Rohtak and after dismantling them, took out the whole cash and distributed the bounty among themselves," said Naik. A case in this regard has been registered against them under Section 41 of CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure). Further investigation is on. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Minister for Railway Piyush Goyal on Saturday said that all the citizens of India are 'Chowkidars.' He was addressing the 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' programme here. "All the citizens of our country are Chowkidars--from students and housewives to all professionals. Every person should be true to his work to secure the future of our country" said Goyal. Goyal claimed that 130 crore people of the country feel secure because of the NDA government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has become the 'Chowkidar' for the security and development of the country. "We are not like the previous government who remains silent after attacks in India. BJP government gives a reply to these attacks. Modi is the only Prime minister who has worked 365 days without taking leave to make our country secure." Attacking the opposition, Goyal said: "Congress Manifesto Committee chief on Friday while talking about the terrorist attack in Mumbai said 'some things happen.' This shows the mindset of the opposition. They are just rooting for votes." The Union Minister alleged the Congress failed to reach their schemes in all villages, but the BJP brought the online system to ensure the benefit of schemes directly reach people's account." "During the Congress rule rates of products increased a lot and people were confused to pay taxes. But the BJP government has brought in GST. BJP exempted 30 cr people, with income below 5 lakh, from taxpaying by the new income tax policies" Goyal said. Talking about great freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, he said: "We can only secure our country if every citizen shows patriotism towards the nation." He urged the people to participate in the ensuing elections as 'Chowkidars' in order to make the country a superpower and make Modi the PM again. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A massive fire broke out at the State Bank of India's (SBI) main branch here on Saturday. Important files, computers as well as cash were burnt in the fire. Several bank employees were trapped in the fire, sources said. The firemen rushed to the spot to extinguish the fire. The reason behind the fire is yet to be known. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Despite a warning by United States, Italy on Saturday joined China's signature foreign policy Belt and Road initiative (BRI), making it the first G7 country to officially do so reports Xinhua. Addressing a press conference, Italian president Sergio Mattarella said, "Italy and China were at the two ends of the ancient Silk Road which had been a bond closely linking the two countries. Italy supports Xi's initiative on jointly building the Belt and Road and believes that it will be conducive to Eurasian connectivity and common development, as well as to reviving the ancient Silk Road in modern times." "Italy supports Xi's initiative on jointly building the Belt and Road and believes that it will be conducive to Eurasian connectivity and common development, as well as to reviving the ancient Silk Road in modern times," he added. China and Italy on Saturday also a Memorandum of Understanding in this regard. Already, China has signed BRI cooperation agreements with over 40 countries. Notably, this might upset Italy's other partners including the US and other European countries as it would mean China economic domination in the reason. The US had also urged Italy not to "lend legitimacy" to China's "infrastructure vanity project" while referring to the One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative. Facing the third recession in a decade, Italy has defended its action saying that Chinese investment is good for their country. The Chinese President arrived in Rome on Thursday for a state visit and he will later head to Monaco and France. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on Friday said that there will be no law and order situation in the state if YSR Congress (YSRC) chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy is voted to power. "Jagan is an anarchist. If he comes to power, state development will be hampered. He is an expert in crimes. If he comes to power, there will be no law and order in the state," the chief minister said while addressing a public rally at Pendurthi in Visakhapatnam. Naidu accused Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) supremo and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao of helping YSR party chief in the Andhra Pradesh assembly elections. "Jagan has become a slave of KCR. The TRS leader is sending Rs 1000 crores to Andhra Pradesh, to support Jagan in the elections. We do not need such sin money. Jagan knelt before KCR like a slave. Andhraites should him teach them a lesson," he said. Naidu, who is the chief of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) claimed that Reddy is colluding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to get rid of cases pending against him. "Jagan surrendered to Modi to get rid of the CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) cases against him. Modi is angry with me as I am fighting against him now," he said. Naidu's TDP supported the BJP-led government after 2014 Lok Sabha elections but withdrew the support in March last year over the issue of special status to Andhra Pradesh. In 2014 assembly elections, Naidu-led TDP won 103 seats and YSRC bagged 67 seats. BJP had won only four seats and the Congress could not get even a single seat. Naidu is going to contest from the Kuppam seat in Chittoor district for the seventh consecutive time. He had contested from the seat for the first time in 1989. The elections to the 175-member Andhra Pradesh Assembly are scheduled to be held on April 11 simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls. The counting of votes for both will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement will not contest the upcoming parliamentary elections, its leader and former IAS officer Shah Faisal announced on Saturday. However, he made it clear that the party will contest the legislative elections whenever they are conducted. "We are a newly formed party. Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement is no longer just about Shah Faisal. After having discussions in the core committee, we have decided not to contest the upcoming parliamentary polls," Shah said addressing a Press Conference here. Stating the reasons behind this decision, he said," First, that we are a newly formed party. Our focus is on people to people contact. Second, through this step, we want to reply to those people who were saying that this party has been brought by the Centre to increase electoral participation and manipulate the votes." Faisal claimed that his party is not eyeing elections or power. "Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement is here to fight for a long time. We are here to restore the political and developmental rights of the people here and we are ready to wait for that," Shah Faisal said talking to reporters. "We will decide soon which party our cadres should support (in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections)," he added. On being asked about Legislative Assembly elections, he said, "Legislative elections are critical for us. Our special status is under attack. We will contest those elections whenever they will be held." Faisal also criticised "custodial killing" of a teacher in police custody last week and demanded the arrest of officers responsible for it. "We know a magisterial inquiry is going on. We believe that only a judicial inquiry can take it to the (right) conclusion," he said. He also condemned the death of a 12-year-old boy who was held hostage by the terrorists and killed during an encounter in Hajin yesterday, urging "both competent (security forces and terrorists)" to refrain from human rights violations. Terming the central government's recently imposed ban on Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) as anti-democracy, he said, "This will further shrink the democratic space here". Shah appreciated New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern for her handling of the situation in the aftermath of Christchurch attack. "We believe the kind of leadership she (Jacinda Ardern) had shown is an example for the leaders of South Asian region. We hope that leaders of our nation, our neighbouring nations and South Asian regions will take similar steps to ensure the protection of minorities," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three people lost their lives on Saturday after two trucks collided with each other in Aiginabilu village, said police. One truck was carrying LPG cylinders while the other was loaded with construction material. As per the police, the deceased have been identified as truck driver Sachin, Lokesh who was driving the truck containing LPG cylinders, and Malakappa who was the cleaner of the truck loaded with construction material. Umesh, who was sitting with the driver carrying cylinders, has been admitted to a government hospital in Sagara, informed the police. More details of the incident are awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hours after former Supreme Court judge Pinaki Chandra Ghose took oath as the first Lokpal chairperson, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati launched an attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he was forced to take this step under the pressure of the Supreme Court. "Thanks to hon. Supreme Court those who did not allow to have a Lokayukta in his home state of Gujarat had to ultimately appoint Lokpal in the country after 5 years of dilly-dallying. Justice Pinaki Ghose today took oath as first Lokpal of India. Greetings to him and to people," she Tweeted. Earlier in the day, President Ram Nath Kovind administered the oath of office to Justice (retd) Ghose as Lokpal chairperson in New Delhi. Justice Ghose was on March 19 appointed as the country's first Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman. The former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister also took a swipe at the Prime Minister for sending best wishes to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the eve of the neighbouring country's day. "On the one hand strong anti-Pakistan stand and striking statements for the sake of vote bank but on the other hand secret greeting letter to Pakistan PM. Is this kind of of deceive and deception with 130 crore people of the country by BJP proper? People must remain alert," she tweeted. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress leader Digvijaya Singh will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath said on Saturday. "I had asked Digvijaya Singh to contest from Bhopal and he immediately agreed. Even during the meeting with Congress high command, his name was suggested," Nath said during an event. "I hope people will support him." This ends speculation that Singh could contest from Rajgarh seat, which he had represented in 1984 and 1991. In Madhya Pradesh, polling will be conducted in four stages during phase four, five, six and seven scheduled on April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. Madhya Pradesh has a total of 29 Lok Sabha constituencies. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP had won from 27 constituencies while Congress bagged two seats. . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), along with smaller parties, on Saturday sealed their seat-sharing agreement for the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. Announcing the break-up, former Maharashtra Chief Minister and state Congress chief Ashok Chavan, "Congress will contest on 24 seats, NCP on 20 seats, Bahujan Vikas Aghadi on one seat, Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana on two seats and Yuva Swabhimani Paksha on one seat." The finalising of the seat-sharing deal comes days after NCP chief Sharad Pawar said that he will not contest in the impending Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, the Congress has announced candidates for 12 seats and NCP for 16 seats in Maharashtra. On February 18, the BJP and its NDA ally Shiv Sena had announced the seat-sharing deal in the state. According to the agreement, the BJP will fight on 25 seats and Shiv Sena on 23 seats. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP won 23 seats while the Shiv Sena garnered 18 seats. The NCP and Congress won just four and two seats, respectively. Maharashtra will go to polls in the first four phases, beginning April 11. 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.) Union Minister Nitin Gadkari will file his nomination from Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency on March 25, Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Pankaja Munde informed on Saturday. Beed MP Pritam Munde, daughter of late Gopinath Munde, will also file her nomination on the same day. Gadkari's name was announced in the first list of candidates released by BJP on March 21. He will be contesting against the Congress' Nana Patole who quit BJP to join Congress last year. BJP-Shiv Sena had last month finalised a plan to contest the upcoming General elections jointly in 48 seats. While BJP will contest on 25 seats, Shiv Sena will contest on 23 seats. Maharashtra will vote for Lok Sabha elections in the first four phases, April 11, 18, 23 and 29. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Daughter of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Thursday thanked the Punjab government here for addressing her ailing father's 'deteriorating health'. "I am told that MNS's blood samples to check his renal function (urea & creatinine) have been taken. Thank you very much. I hope the lab results, as soon as they come, will also be shared with me," Maryam tweeted while apparently referring to her father. "Permission to meet MNS also granted. Thank you again," she added. Ailing Nawaz is currently serving imprisonment at Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore in connection with graft cases. In her previous tweets, Maryam had said that Sharif's renal function is "deteriorating further" and "his kidney disease is on stage three", demanding the Punjab government to free her father. Maryam stated that the doctor who went for the medical check-up of Nawaz "was not allowed in and sent back." Maryam claimed that letters requesting permission to visit her father had been sent by her without any response given in turn by the authorities. She warned that she will hold a protest if jail authorities will not provide Nawaz with medical help until tomorrow. Meanwhile, in response to her tweets, Punjab chief minister's spokesperson, Shahbaz Gill, in a series of video footages, revealed the conversation where he had in which he talked in detail about Sharif's daily activities, food intake and health indicators such as blood pressure, slaming all claims made by the former Prime Minister's daughter, Dawn reported. Gill questioned the accusations made over Sharif's health and the manner in which it was "politicised and used as a tool for vengeance". Gill further assured Maryam that her father was receiving the best of medical attention and had not complained of anything in the past 12 days apart from a toothache for which a dental surgeon was called in immediately. He said that blood and urine samples had already been taken and sent to the laboratory, promised to share the results soon. Sharif was shifted to Jinnah Hospital on February 15 after he complained of fever, stomach ache, and headache. However, he was later moved to the jail after Islamabad High Court last week rejected his petition seeking bail on medical grounds. Citing inadequate availability of medical facilities in jail, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members, in February, had requested the Punjab Assembly secretariat to grant permission to the three-time Prime Minister to go abroad for his medical treatment. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Special counsel Robert Mueller has ended his 22-month long probe into possible Russian collusion in the 2016 Presidential elections which saw Donald Trump come to power as the 45th President of the United States. Mueller wrapped up the investigation and submitted the report to Attorney General William Barr on Friday (local time), according to CNN. The investigation into possible Russian interference in Trump's 2016 Presidential run has seen charges being filed against 37 defendants, seven guilty pleas and one conviction. Barr may provide the US Congress with "the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." Meanwhile, a Justice Department official has labelled the report as "comprehensive". "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsel's report," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders tweeted. The incumbent US President has often decried Mueller's investigation as a "witch-hunt" and asked for the probe to be scrapped. He is yet to respond to the investigation's cessation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A court here on Saturday framed murder charges against two UP cops Prashant Chaudhary and Sandeep in connection with the killing of an Apple Executive Vivek Tiwari last year. The court of Additional District Judge (ADJ) Sanjay Shankar Pandey after framing murder charges against the accused persons fixed April 4 as the date for the recording of statements. Both the accused were sent to jail after the charges were framed against them. The police had in its charge-sheet booked Prashant on murder charges while Sandeep was only booked for assault. Following this, Kalpana Tiwari, wife of the deceased Apple Executive approached the court to frame a murder charge against Sandeep. After hearing Kalpana's plea, the court on March 8 directed Sandeep to surrender before it. Sandeep was present at the scene of the crime along with the main accused, constable Prashant. On September 28, 2018, Tiwari was allegedly shot dead by a patrolling constable for refusing to stop his car. On October 2, the post-mortem examination report of Tiwari revealed that he died due to a gunshot injury on the left side of his chin. During the preliminary investigation, the cop who allegedly shot Apple executive claimed that he fired at the latter's car in self-defence as he tried to run over his motorbike. The bullet was allegedly fired by Constable Prashant, while he was accompanied by Sandeep. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a charge sheet against three persons - Mohammad Salman from Delhi, Mohammad Salim from Rajasthan and Mohammad Kamran (absconding), a native of Pakistan - in a case related to Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation (FIF). In an official statement issued on Friday, the NIA said that after investigation, it was found that FIF chief Hafiz Saeed and his deputy Shahid Mahmood hatched a conspiracy in 2012 to create sleeper cells and logistic base in Delhi and Haryana under the garb of religious work such as construction of mosques, madrasa education, financial assistance for marriage of poor Muslim girls, and so on. In pursuance of this conspiracy, the NIA said, Mahmood tasked his associate Mohammad Kamran, a Pakistani based at Dubai, for re-routing funds from Pakistan to Dubai and further to India through hawala channels. Kamran was further tasked to identify "religious minded Indian Muslims who could be given this fund in the name of construction of mosque, education in Madrasa, marriage of Muslims girls, medical assistance etc." to create its bases. During this preparatory work, the target persons were intended to be used for creating sleeper cells/hideouts. "Accordingly, Kamran identified a few Indians in Dubai including one Mohammad Salman, a resident of New Delhi, for this purpose. He started transferring large amount of funds (through illegal hawala) in the name of religious work - construction of mosque Khulfa-e-Rashideen in Uttawar, Palwal in Haryana and for marriage of Muslims girls. Mohammad Salman had received huge funds from Mohammad Kamran from Dubai in this connection," the NIA stated. Further investigation is underway against the accused persons under section 173(8) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor and BJP leader Paresh Rawal on Saturday announced that he is not keen on contesting the ensuing Lok Sabha polls. Rawal is a sitting Member of Parliament from Ahmedabad East constituency. "I had told the party 4-5 months ago that I do not want to contest the elections. But, ultimately it is the party's decision," Rawal said. Rawal's statement comes shortly after his name was not seen in the first list of candidates released by the BJP on Friday. Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be held from April 11 and will go on till May 19 in seven phases. The 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.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday invoked socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia to launch an attack on the Opposition including the Rahul Gandhi-led Congress which are making efforts to form a united front against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led coalition in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls. In his blog titled "Remembering Dr. Lohia", Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, "Dr Lohia would be horrified at the political developments taking place...Those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic Maha Milawat or adulteration alliances with the same Congress. It is both ironical and reprehensible." "Whenever Dr Lohia spoke, inside or outside Parliament, the Congress trembled with fear," he added recalling Lohia on his birth anniversary. Dubbing the main Opposition "disastrous", the Prime Minister quoted Lohi as saying, "During the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the army has improved." The Prime Minister stated his government was following Lohia's thoughts and ideals by introducing programmes such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and many more. "Nothing pained Dr Lohia more than the caste hierarchy and inequality between women and men. Our Mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' as well as our track record in the last five years show that we have made a long-lasting contribution in fulfilling the vision of Dr Lohia. He would surely have been very proud of the NDA Government's work," Modi said. In his concluding remark, Prime Minister Narendra Modi exclaimed that 130 crore Indians face a moot question today, which he said was, "How can those who betrayed Dr Lohia be expected to serve the nation?" "Today they are betraying the principles of Dr Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India," wrote Prime Minister Modi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their death anniversary and said there story of supreme sacrifice will continue to inspire generations. "I bow to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on their martyrdom day. The tale of their courage and valour will continue to inspire generations," Prime Minister Tweeted. On March 23, 1931, the three revolutionary freedom fighters were hanged to death, a few hours ahead of schedule, in the Lahore conspiracy case. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also paid tributes to the three freedom fighters and wrote on the micro-blogging site, "On Martyrdom day of Shaeed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, we, remember their supreme sacrifice for the motherland and pay them our respectful tributes. The great martyrs have always been the inspiration for every Indian. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of creating two Hindustan - one, of those people who lead a lavish life with private planes, luxurious cars and 15-20 cell phones and the other who can only afford missed calls. "Prime Minister Modi is creating two Hindustan - one with persons having private planes, Mercedes cars, 15-20 cell phones while the other comprising Hindustan of labour class who can only make missed calls," Rahul said while addressing a public rally here. Mocking Modi's 'Main bhi chowkidar' campaign, Rahul said the Prime Minister is "chowkidar" (watchman) for rich people like Anil Ambani, Mehul Chowksi, Nirav Modi and others, not for the poor and marginalised people. "Modi now says that all are Chowkidar. He is indeed a chowkidar but not of the poor, he has done chowkidari of Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi and others. The farmers are their own chowkidar as they protect their crop and fields in the night by themselves," Rahul said. He alleged that Modi has given money out of the poor man's pocket to the businessman like Anil Ambani. "He calls you 'Mitr' (friend) but calls Anil Ambani 'Bhai' (brother). He has taken money out of Mitr's pocket and gave it to his Bhai," Rahul said alleging that Narendra Modi has waived off loans to the tune of Rs 3.5 lakh crore of 15 "big persons". The Congress president also said that Modi's monthly radio programme "Mann ki Baat" is like a "flop movie" which people are seeing for last five years. "You are seeing the same flop picture for the last five years. Mann ki Baat, Mann ki Baat, Mann ki Baat...you all are tired of hearing it. You go to see a picture, you watch it for two hours and then come out and say it was a flop movie. But see the irony, you are seeing the same picture for the last five years," said Rahul. Asserting that he is not afraid of Modi, the Congress chief said, "The rest of the world may be afraid of Narendra Modi but I am not afraid of Narendra Modi, BJP and RSS. I am afraid of only one thing and I believe in the truth, and I am telling you the truth, everyday money from your pocket is being looted," said Rahul Gandhi. Promising that the Congress will give "minimum guaranteed income" to all on coming to power, he asserted, "If Narendra Modi can give such huge amounts to 15-20 people, I can also give money to the poor, farmers, youth, labourers and others. Congress has decided a minimum income line and after coming to power we will transfer money directly into the account of all who fall below this line." Bihar will witness polling in seven phases for its 40 Lok Sabha elections. The dates of polling in the state will be on April 11, 18, 23, 29 and May 6, 12 and 19. The 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.) China and Russia are awaiting the 'immediate success' of the talks between the United States and Taliban, which are aimed at achieving peace in war-torn Afghanistan. "Both we and the Chinese are certainly interested in the immediate success of the US talks with the Taliban movement, five rounds of which were held in Doha. That's why this is a key moment for further progress towards a stable peace in Afghanistan," Russia's Presidential Envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov was quoted TASS news agency. As soon as the US agrees with the Taliban over withdrawing half of its troops from Afghanistan, "we can start making next and more particular steps, leading to establishing peace in Afghanistan: this is ceasefire and a whole number of other steps, and the most important of them will be direct talks of a broad spectrum of Afghans with the Taliban movement," he added. A statement issued by the US Department State said that representatives of the US, China, and Russia met in Washington, on March 21 and 22, in order to exchange their views on the current status of the Afghan peace process and discuss common efforts to bring peace, prosperity, and security to Afghanistan. In the meeting, the officials underscored their respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, as well as Afghanistan's right to make its own political, security, and economic decisions, the statement read. The United States, China, and Russia agreed to continue further discussions. However, the exact date and venue for the next meeting will be decided through diplomatic channels. The parties will continue to seek common efforts and coordination on the Afghan peace process, the statement added. "The Taliban movement has said many times at its discussions with both the US and other [sides] that it wants to see serious guarantors of its future deal with the United States. Among such guarantors they named Russia [and also] China, Pakistan and Iran," Kabulov said. However, the envoy noted that there was no discussion on any particular form of providing such guarantees since progress in Afghan settlement has not reached that phase. US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalizad, took to Twitter and wrote, "Welcome the robust interest in Afghan Peace Process. Met with my counterparts from Russia and China and then the EU before we all came together for lunch. We respect Afghan sovereignty, want peace for all Afghans & seek an Afghanistan that is never a source of threat for any of us. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A scooterist died in an accident on Saturday here near the residence of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. The victim who was on a two-wheeler when he hit a Mahindra Bolero jeep. He died on the spot. The jeep driver Anil, while talking to ANI, said: "I was returning from Vijayawada after dropping my boss." "I was driving at the speed of 30kmph when the person coming from the wrong direction hit my jeep. He seemed to be drunk," he said. The victim's body was shifted to Mangalagiri government hospital by the police. The jeep was sent to Tadepalli police station. Details of the deceased are yet to be traced. Further probe is on. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rome [Italy], Mar 23 (ANI): Italy signed on Saturday a Memorandum of Understanding with China to join the Belt Road Initiative (BRI), becoming the first member of the G-7 grouping of industrialised countries to do so. The pact was signed here by Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping who is on a three-day visit to Rome since yesterday. The Italian government says the goal of the MoU is largely symbolic and has no legal value, and points out to the fact that other European countries, like Malta, Greece and Portugal, have already signed something similar. But the criticism in the country and outside has been loud and strong, and not without reasons. Many analysts and experts, besides those backed by China, are extremely worried about the potential consequences of opening the country to Chinese projects. Italy is looking for money, and the MoU has been pursued not only by this Government but by the Renzi and Gentiloni governments too. But while a strategy to attract investments in a country in desperate need to revive its economy is totally legitimate, the cost of attracting Chinese investments and to enter the BRI should have rung some bells. It did not. And the strategy China has been unfolding for the past few years all over the and particularly in its neighbourhood countries worked in Italy too. In the recent past, in fact, China has aggressively taken on the task of raising a support base in political parties, industry, media and academics in countries where it has economic or strategic interests by 'buying' over the support of key functionaries in these sectors. While in smaller countries this task has been often undertaken by the Chinese embassy, in developed economies China has been using its agents of influence, who are often of Chinese origin, to reach out to their targets. We have seen the strategy unfolding in Nepal, in Australia, in Pakistan, in Sri Lanka and all over Africa. It worked and is working in Italy too: the number of those praising Chinese money flowing into Italian land is constantly growing, despite the fact that BRI initiative all over the proved to be a strangling debt trap for all the countries involved, starting from Sri Lanka and Pakistan. China has used the brilliant and evocative brand of the "New Silk Roads" to build a 360-degree counter-globalization infrastructure project of sea and land routes between China-Asia, Africa and Europe by investing in ports, inland ports, railways, telecommunications and digital roads. This is why Beijing has invested $ 448 billion in the last four years in 64 countries, another 117 are planned for 2019. And these are the numbers fed to local populations, totally unaware of the strings attached to these projects: only Chineses, in fact, benefit from them. Chinese workers are brought in together with Chinese technology and Chinese money. The local workers are not benefitting in any way from the project and, in the very much boasted CPEC 'test', people have been thrown out of their land with no compensation. Not only this, authoritarism, human rights violations, disregard for environmental issues are only a few of the 'benefits' attached to Chinese projects all over the But the Italian government seems to think none of this is going to happen in Italy. In fact, they are projecting themselves, with a certain degree of satisfaction and a touch of arrogance, as the next key factor in geopolitical terms between China and USA, without considering for a second that Italy risks to end up badly crushed between the two superpowers. First of all, it is true, the MOU is symbolic, but Italy is a G7 country hosting a large number of NATO and USA military bases. Washington is not happy, and so is the European Union, worried about the potential threat both in strategic and economic terms. The symbolism is heavy, and not a good one. Conte and his masters, Salvini and Di Maio, are totally ignoring the biggest worry of analysts and experts. Everywhere in the world, the BRI initiatives have been closely followed by Chinese troops and China has been building military bases along the affected routes. The first and most notorious is in Djibouti, a fundamental bottleneck along the Pacific-Indian-Suez-Mediterranean route, where in fact almost all the major powers are installed, including Italy. Other bases will follow, or, better, they could already be there undercovered. The Chinese project in Italy, boasted with the same arrogant and mellifluous rhetoric used in Pakistan, could deepen the crisis already perceptible all over Europe and lead, at a point, to a confrontation between US and China: and, according to sources, the hypothesis has already been studied in every detail by the Armed Forces of the two contenders. The US will never accept Chinese bases at the door. The containment of Beijing's ambitions already takes place in all dimensions, starting with intelligence and a potential cyber war. Washington considers the BRI a vital threat - after having long underestimated it - and is ready to strike with any kind of reprisals anyone who opens the door too much to Beijing, especially if it is a historical ally. And for sure, nobody is happy to see, accompanying Xi Jinping in Italy, the number two of Huawei. Most probably Italy did not realize fully what was at stake when has been offering golden bridges to China to invest in Italy, including buying parties of the public debt. This involves the decisive dimensions of networks, new technologies, artificial intelligence, as well as the military sphere. It's late, but not too late for drawing at least clear lines, in the MOU, which are not to be crossed and to behave like a G7 nation and not one of those characters in old 50s movies ready to sell, cheating, the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain to foreigners. (ANI) . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Several Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers were injured after a stage collapsed during a 'Holi milan' function in Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. BJP Kisan Morcha leader Avadhesh Yadav got injured in the accident. "There was much excitement and enthusiasm among the party workers for the Holy Milan. As the crowd swelled the stage suddenly collapsed. Many of the party workers got injured but they are recovering now. I also have sustained a fracture (in leg)," said Yadav. The incident was caught on camera. . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi should stop sending "love letters" to Pakistan which continues to sponsor terrorism against India, said Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala here on Saturday. "Modi ji secretly wrote a love letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Pakistan's Day. In the letter, Modi ji forgot to discuss the terrorists sent to India by Pakistan and its ISI," said Surjewala here at a press conference. "When you (PM Modi) wrote a letter to Imran Khan, did you ask him to stop the terror activities, which are funded by Pakistan," he asked Prime Minister Modi. Reminding Prime Minister Modi of his statement where he had asked the UPA government to "stop sending love letters" to Pakistan, Surjewala said: "It is now Prime Minister Modi to stop sending love letters to Pakistan." He also reminded Modi of his words--"Pakistan needs to be talked to in the language it understands." Imran Khan on Friday took to his Twitter handle to disclose that he received Prime Minister Modi's message on Pakistan's Day, which is celebrated to mark the Lahore Resolution on March 23 each year. "Received message from PM Modi: I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the Day of Pakistan. It is time that people of sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence," Khan tweeted. Speaking on Prime Minister Modi's greetings, the government sources told ANI that this is a customary unsigned letter, which is sent to other heads of states on their National days as well. Sources further emphasised that the letter to Khan highlighted terrorism in South Asia. Surjewala also accused Prime Minister Modi of hiding the fact from the people of the county that he had wished Imran Khan on Pakistan's National Day without a word on terrorism funded by the neighbouring country. "Mr 56" of the Sari-Shawl-Impromptu Pak visit for Birthday-ISI invite fame diplomacy was feeling very shy yesterday. Guess? #Chowkidar hid the fact that he had wished Pak PM on Pak National Day without a word on Pak terrorism. Muscular soap opera for people & media only," tweeted Surjewala. India on Friday decided to boycott Pakistan's National Day reception organised by the Pakistan High Commission in the national capital, citing invitation to separatists from Jammu and Kashmir as the reason behind the boycott. This comes amid the escalating tension between the two nations following Pulwama terror attack orchestrated by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad on February 14, which was followed by air strikes by India at Jaish-e-Mohammad training camp in Pakistan's Balakot. For long, India has been asking Pakistan to act against terrorists operating from its soil, reiterating that talks and terror cannot go hand in hand. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Minister and Rajya Sabha MP Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday expressed gratitude to the BJP for fielding him from Bihar's Patna Sahib Lok Sabha constituency, while refusing to comment on Shatrughan Sinha, the sitting MP, who has apparently been dropped for his critical views on the top leadership. "Patna is my city. I was born and brought up there. I was a member of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh there and I have emotional connections with Patna," Prasad told ANI after he got Lok Sabha ticket from Patna Sahib seat. The actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha had won 2014 general elections from the constituency on BJP ticket. However, he was dropped from the list. Sinha has been vocal against the top leadership of the party on various occasions in the past. Refusing to comment on him, Prasad said: "I have not commented on him before and I will not do it now." However, he added, "This fight will be on issues of development; this would be between hope and opportunism." He added, "This election is about hope and making Narendra Modi the Prime Minister of the country again. We have worked in the IT sector in Patna. Many Business Processing Outsourcing (BPOs) and innovation centres started there, I will take these works forward. The voters of Patna are very aware and they know which way takes India forward," he added. Lok Sabha MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy, who has been re-nominated by the party from Saran constituency, said: "Saran has been a bastion of Lalu ji. I have been again given the opportunity to fight election from there. I would thank the party and leadership for this." On being asked about Sinha, he said, "I don't know where he is and from which party he is going to contest elections. We are clueless about him as of now." BJP has nominated Union Minister of State Giriraj Singh from Begusarai who is sitting MP from Nawada. Speaking on Singh, Rudy said, "He is a senior leader, sitting MP and a minister. He has a different seat to contest now and he will win from Begusarai." Bihar, which has 40 Lok Sabha constituencies, will witness polls in all the seven phases, beginning April 11. The 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.) 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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 US President Donald Trump removed additional "large-scale" US Treasury sanctions on North Korea on Friday (local time). "It was announced today by the US Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" Trump tweeted. This move is largely being viewed as Trump's bid to keep denuclearisation talks with North Korea on track after the Hanoi summit ended abruptly last month without any agreement. The White House refused to comment on Trump's move, according to CNN, but added that the President took the step because he "likes" North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said, without revealing the exact sanctions which have been removed. While it is still unclear as to which sanctions were stopped, the US Treasury Department had recently targeted two Chinese shipping companies for helping Pyongyang skirt UN-imposed sanctions. Despite the breakdown of the second USA-North Korea summit, Trump had maintained that the relationship with the elusive state continues to be "good". Meanwhile, the process of denuclearisation has come to a halt in the Korean Peninsula, as North Korea's demand to ease sanctions was turned down by the US in Hanoi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Minister Uma Bharti has been appointed the president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, said Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda here on Saturday. "As Uma ji has written to BJP president Amit Shah, reiterating her decision not to contest the Lok Sabha elections, the party has appointed her the vice president of the BJP," Nadda said at a press conference. Drinking Water and Sanitation Minister Uma had told Shah that she won't be contesting 17th Lok Sabha elections, adding that she will be happy to accept any other responsibilities assigned to her by the party. "Dear friend, as I have already declared, reiterating the same I had written a letter to the party president Mr Amit Shah, repeating my request of not contesting an election, so that the party officially declares it," wrote Bharti on her Twitter account. "I have told all the friends that for the next one-and-a-half years, I want to spend the maximum time on the banks of the Ganga. During this period, I will participate in the Lok Sabha election campaign according to the BJP's directive, and will fulfill the responsibilities assigned to me," she said. Bharti, however, said that she will not retire from till 'her last breathe' and will continue to do for the rights of poor man."Prime Minister @narendramodi ji is the head guard of the country. All of BJP workers are included in the army of the chowkidars. My wish is that our government is formed and Narendra Modi becomes the Prime Minister again," she had tweeted. In 1989, Bharti contested and won Khajuraho Lok Sabha seat, and retained it in elections conducted in 1991, 1996 and 1998. In 1999, she switched her constituency and won Bhopal seat in Madhya Pradesh. She won the last poll from Jhansi in UP. In December last year, Bharti had announced to take a break from active to focus on the issue of Ram temple and cleaning of Ganga river. She had also announced that she would not contest the Lok Sabha polls in 2019. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United States on Friday (local time) sanctioned Venezuela's state-owned Bandes bank as a retaliatory measure after the Nicolas Maduro-led regime arrested one of Juan Guaido's closest aides. "BANDES bank is to Venezuela's financial sector what PDVSA is to its oil sector. This action will severely affect any attempted currency movements by Maduro and his cronies moving forward. Do not test the resolve of this Administration," US National Security Advisor John Bolton tweeted. The bank's four additional subsidiaries have also been designated. All properties owned by the bank and its entities in the United States have been blocked, an official notification by the US Treasury Department noted. "The willingness of Maduro's inner-circle to exploit Venezuela's institutions knows no bounds. Regime insiders have transformed BANDES and its subsidiaries into vehicles to move funds abroad in an attempt to prop up Maduro. Maduro and his enablers have distorted the original purpose of the bank, which was founded to help the economic and social well-being of the Venezuelan people, as part of a desperate attempt to hold onto power," Treasury Secretary Steven T Mnuchin stated. "The regime's continued use of kidnapping, torture, and murder of Venezuelan citizens will not be tolerated by the US or the international coalition that is united behind President Guaido. Roberto Marrero and other political prisoners must be released immediately," he added. The sanctions come a day after Bolton promised to take action against the Maduro regime in the wake of Roberto Marrero's arrest. Venezuela's intelligence service had detained two of Guaido's associates, out of which one has been recognised as Marrero who had rifles and a grenade in possession at the time of arrest. The Latin American nation's Minister of Interior Nestor Reverol on Thursday alleged that Marrero was part of a terror cell which planned attacks. While one of the arrested has been let off, Marrero still continues to be under detention. "When the dictator Maduro uses imprisonment & intimidation against the legitimate government of Venezuela, America will respond. The United States will continue to stand strong with the people of Venezuela. FREE MARRERO NOW!" US Vice President Mike Pence tweeted on Friday. Venezuela has been in the throes of a political crisis after Guaido proclaimed himself as the President of the nation in January. The United States immediately recognised Guaido's claim and back the opposition leader, along with asking other countries to recognise Guaido as the interim President. Maduro, who is the elected President of the nation, decried the events and accused the US of plotting a coup to overthrow him by supporting Guaido. He continues to hold on to his post despite calls by the international community for fresh elections. Amongst other sanctions, the United States has previously proscribed Venezuela's state-owned oil and natural gas company PDVSA in a bid to stifle funding to the Maduro regime. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rajasthan is one of the most vibrant states in the country drawing huge number of domestic and international tourists. Located just 240 kms from Delhi and 160 kms from Jaipur, is Vivaana Culture Hotel in a Rajasthani village of Churiajitgarh that breaks away from the usual and makes for a perfect weekend getaway. Having carved a distinct niche for itself in the heritage hospitality segment, Vivaana, a meticulously restored 19th century Shekhawati Haveli in Churi Ajitgarh, Mandawa, Rajasthan was bestowed with the prestigious "Best Heritage Hotel" award at the III edition of the SATTE Awards 2019. Atul Khanna and Devna Khanna - the Directors of Vivaana Culture Hotel were present at the awards ceremony to receive the award for their dream project brought to life. Vivaana is situated in the Shekhawati region which is also known as the "Open Art Gallery" because of the elaborate and intricate frescos in the Havelis of the region. Vivaana is one of the gems, whose walls boast of beautiful frescoes that are a glimpse of Indian culture and heritage. "We are delighted to receive this prestigious award for Vivaana. It is a 'True Restoration by Heart' as it was conceived with a lot of passion and dedication to offer a lifetime experience to travellers in an ambience reflecting the old world charm and splendour of the bygone era", said Atul Khanna, heritage lover and conservationist at heart. "Rajasthan is truly a destination of grand Havelis which are beautifully crafted with delicate artwork and have stood against the vagaries of nature. The entire process of restoring Vivaana has been quite enlivening and inspiring though a daunting process. Hence the onus is on us to restore it especially in the wake of this falling prey to commercial lucre and greed. We appeal to entrepreneurs to incorporate these in their models, archaeological departments to take ownership and a native to be proud of these ageless wonders", added Khanna, reiterating the need to conserve heritage monuments. With a paradigm shift taking place in the travel industry, heritage hotels have been gaining importance lately as travellers want to experience the age-old era of glorious past of dynasties that lived in these beautifully crafted and designed mansions. Heritage hotels have been the catalyst for the growth of tourism in many states and the conversion of heritage structures into revenue-generating hospitality units have directly or indirectly helped the conservation of these structures. While these structures become self-sustaining units, they also provide employment opportunities to the local people. This story is provided by NewsVoir. 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.) Launching a blistering attack on the BJP here on Saturday, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seems to be schizophrenic. He said the BJP claimed to adhere to the principles of Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Sardar Patel, B.R. Ambedkar and Ram Manohar Lohia, but instead they follow people who these leaders opposed and disagreed with. "I wonder which principles are being spoken of. The BJP seems to be schizophrenic. On the one hand they try to co-opt Gandhi Ji, Bhagat Singh, Sardar Patel, Dr Ambedkar and Dr Lohia and on the other hand they follow people who these leaders opposed and disagreed with," he said in a tweet. The former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister's remarks came shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused political parties that claim to be followers of socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia of betraying his principles. Earlier in the day, Yadav who arrived at the Lohia Park in the city to pay floral tributes to the socialist leader, said: "They (BJP) should remember that the Dalits and the backward communities were aware of their mindset. And people are now ready to give their reply in the Lok Sabha polls. "When the BJP came to power, it said it will hug the backward communities. But they have suppressed them." Referring to the incident of burning his and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati's photos during the 'Holika dahan' ceremony in Barabanki district, Yadav said: "In a democracy to oppose (against something), effigies are burnt, but by burning someone's picture on the day of a festival, I want to ask the BJP, what kind of nationalism and social justice was that?" The Barabanki Police has registered a case against the culprits. On Congress President Rahul Gandhi's chief advisor Sam Pitroda's remark on the February 14 Pulwama attacks, Yadav said: "The BJP cannot issue the certificate of nationalism to people. For the sacrifices and valour of the armed forces, we always have respect." The Samajwadi Party leader also asked for the reason behind the intelligence failure in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. "When the Opposition parties want about the big intelligence failure, the government does not want to answer. And that's why I have said a number of times that the BJP knows how to divert the attention of people from real issues." He also said that earlier the entire debate was on 'chaiwala', but now it is on 'chowkidaar'. On unemployment, he said that due to demonetisation and the GST, crores of youth have lost their jobs. "They (BJP) promised to bring 'achhe din', but they brought 'bure din' for the people." Regarding filing of his nomination papers for the Azamgarh parliamentary constituency, he said: "Will do that soon if people are demanding. And will also decide on Dimple Yadav's (his wife) candidature from Kannauj as people are asking her to contest." He added that the candidate for Varanasi will be announced soon along with the other parliamentary constituencies. On Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath kicking off his electoral campaign in the state, he said: "Don't tell me about the him. We have heard that he (Yogi Adityanath) played Holi wearing a rain coat. Holi is the festival of colours, and if the colours are not smeared on your face then it is not Holi." The SP leader described the social media team of the BJP as "Internet terrorists" and demanded action against them. "The kind of language they use is not good and we do not want to use such language," he added. --IANS aks/ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sandeep Ssingh, one of the producers of "PM Narendra Modi", says that the makers of the forthcoming film had acquired the rights of a song penned by lyricist Javed Akhtar and that is why he was given a credit. The producer also says Akhtar could have discussed it before commenting on social media. "Javed Akhtar is one of the highly regarded poets and lyricists of our nation and I have grown up watching his films and songs. He knows all of us so, before tweeting on the matter, he could have just made a call. "We bought the copyright of the song before using it in our film. Our music department followed the process," Ssingh told IANS here. Akhtar had tweeted on Friday: "I am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it." He also posted a snapshot of the trailer's video in which his name was mentioned among several other artistes in the lyrics category. But did anyone contact Akhtar? "Even he could have done the same thing. He knows Vivek (Oberoi, the film's lead actor), he knows Bhushan Kumar of T-Series. Before tweeting, he could have contacted us," the producer replied. According to a statement from Ssingh, "T-Series being the official music partner of our film...we have taken the songs 'Ishwar Allah'* from the film '1947: Earth' and the song 'Suno gaur se duniya walon' from the film 'Dus', thus we have given the due credits to respective lyricists Javed Sahab and Sameerji". The film is also involved in controversy because of its trailer. Many claimed that the trailer that was shown to the media earlier this week was different from what is now available on YouTube for public viewing. Are the makers trying to avoid the projection of the 2002 Gujarat riots in the film? Without speaking much about the trailer, Ssingh said: "...people will have to watch the film." The movie is releasing on April 5, a few days before the commencement of the Lok Sabha elections in India. But a leader of the DMK in Pollachi in Tamil Nadu has reportedly written to the Chief Election Commissioner seeking a ban on the release of Modi's biopic till the Lok Sabha polls get over. Asked about it, Ssingh said: "I think whether it is the DMK or (other) political party, instead of talking about the film, they should focus on the work they have done for the state and for their people." --IANS aru/nn/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Abdul Sattar A. Nabi, a senior Congress legislator from Maharashtra's Sillod Assembly constituency, quit the party on Saturday to contest as an Independent in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "I have tendered my resignation to the party today. I will try my luck in the parliamentary elections from the Aurangabad Lok Sabha seat," Sattar, 54, told the media. However, Sattar assured that he was "not disgruntled or unhappy with anybody either in the party or the leadership" which could have prompted him to leave the party. "I am very keen to do something for the Muslim community, help solve their problems and achieve their aspirations. I feel it can be done on a larger platform through a Muslim elected to Parliament." He added that members of all communities were keen that he should take the plunge in national for the betterment of all the people of Aurangabad and he had decided to bow before their wishes. "Not only will I contest, I will not withdraw and I hope to definitely win the Lok Sabha elections," said Sattar, who is a two-time legislator, adding that he would give a tough fight to all the other candidates in the fray. When contacted, an aide to state Congress President Ashok Chavan said they would await details before commenting on the matter. In July 2018, Sattar was among five legislators from various parties who had resigned from their Maharashtra Legislature seats in support of the Maratha quotas agitation. However, after the state government finally cleared the 16 per cent reservations for Marathas in November, the issue was resolved amicably and their resignation issue also ended. --IANS qn/ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, here on Saturday, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of getting his public rally cancelled by misusing the police. However, the DCP Outer Delhi said the venue was unfit and an alternate site, 150-meter away, was approved for the rally. "The BJP gets my public rally cancelled today through police. Police denies permission. How many BJP rallies were denied permission by police in Delhi in last 5 years?" Kejriwal tweeted. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief also said the BJP should concede that it will lose all the seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi. "Narendra Modi forgot his promise of full statehood. Now the people will answer him," Kejriwal stated. Responding to Kejriwal's tweet, The DCP Outer Delhi said the origin site was not found fit. "Busy intersection of Sant Nagar Chowk was not found fit for a proposed public meeting of 2,000, with around 1,000 seats and pandal, due to heavy traffic and weekly market. This was conveyed on March 20. 'No objection' for alternate site, 150 metre away, has been conveyed," the DCP said via his official Twitter handle. According to the AAP, Kejriwal was scheduled to address a rally in Shakurbasti on Saturday, for which the police did not give permission. Responding to the "false" claim of the police, the AAP said they cancelled the venue for no reason. In a statement the AAP said the police is claiming it "merely changed the venue". "This is false. First the police cancelled the original meeting venue without any reason. Our team kept pleading with the DM till late yesterday (Friday) evening, but when nothing happened the party was forced to cancel the meeting," the AAP said. The party said, as a face saver, the Delhi Police said it allowed an alternate venue today afternoon, after Kejriwal tweeted. "It is a farce and the Delhi Police is only trying to cover up it's politically biased decision after the AAP exposed it," the party said. The AAP said it will protest the Modi Police move before the Election Commission. --IANS nks/rs/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Spanish giants Real Madrid are preparing an offer to sign highly rated Flamengo teenager Reinier, according to Brazilian media reports. The reigning European champions are willing to invest almost 70 million euros to secure the 17-year-old Flamengo midfielder on a long-term deal, the Globo Esporte news outlet reported on Friday as quoted by Xinhua news agency. Reinier has also attracted the interest of Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal and Manchester City, according to the report. Reinier, who is contracted with the Rio de Janeiro club until 2021, has been capped four times for Brazil's U-17 team, scoring two goals. Real Madrid currently have three Brazilians in their first-team squad: left-back Marcelo, midfielder Casemiro and forward Vinicius Junior. --IANS bbh/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) British Airways is launching its shortest flight till date, a 54-mile, 50-minute flight from Bahrain International Airport to Dammam, Saudi Arabia, the media reported on Saturday. The return flight will be even quicker, with only 40 minutes spent in the air, CNN quoted the airlines as saying in a statement on Friday. The brief flight succeeds the airline's current shortest trip: a 62-mile hop between the Caribbean islands of Antigua and Saint Kitts. The new service to Dammam is an extension of an existing route from London's Heathrow Airport to Muharraq, Bahrain. At present, customers disembarking in Bahrain are offered a 90-minute limousine journey to Dammam. From December 1, travelers from London will have the option to continue on the same plane -- a four-class Boeing 777-200 -- to Dammam's King Fahd International Airport. The 54-mile flight will not operate as an individual journey. Only passengers travelling to or from London will have access to the Bahrain-Dammam route. "The direct service will now enable seamless travel in eight hours from our home at Heathrow," the airline statement said. "More than half of Saudi Arabia's oil and gas is produced in this region, so this new link underlines the importance of the Eastern province of the Kingdom and the need for smooth onward connections to Europe and the US." --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The death toll from an explosion in a chemical plant in China's Jiangsu province increased to 64 on Saturday while 28 people still remain missing, authorities said. Of the 64 victims, 26 have been identified, Cao Lubao, the Mayor of Yancheng city, said at a press conference. One person was rescued on Saturday morning, Xinhua news agency quoted Cao as saying. The blast has left 94 people with severe injuries, including 21 in critical conditions. The explosion took place at 2,48 p.m. on Thursday following a fire that broke out in the plant, owned by Jiangsu Tianjiayi Chemical Co. Ltd., in a chemical industrial park in Xiangshui county in Yancheng. China's earthquake administration reported a tremor equivalent to 2.2-magnitude at the time of the blast. The last big accident in China was the August 2015 Tianjin explosion, which killed more than 160 people and injured nearly 1,000. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As the clamour for Congress President Rahul Gandhi to fight from a seat in southern India grows, Amethi district Congress and its various units on Saturday passed resolutions that he should accept the offer like his mother Sonia Gandhi and grandmother Indira did in the past. It seemed a trifle contrived and perhaps orchestrated in the face of Union minister Smriti Irani rising heft in Amethi. "Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and former President Sonia Gandhi too contested from southern India and represented the country. It will be a sign of respect for Congress workers in south India. A resolution has been passed that Rahul Gandhi should accept this offer. It's a welcome move," a resolution from the Amethi unit of the Congress Seva Dal read. "People of Amethi are excited and have blessed him (Rahul) with their support. He will win from both the seats and become Prime Minister," it added. The two seats referred to are Amethi and the one from southern India. The support for Rahul to contest from a seat in southern India came from Amethi's NSUI, SC department, Youth Congress and All India Kisan Morcha units which adopted such resolutions supporting the demand. All the resolutions have the exactly same wording. This comes in the wake of top Congress leaders in Kerala, including AICC general secretary Oommen Chandy and Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala urging Gandhi to contest from the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala. "Today, we have again put forward our request and I have already spoken to the Wayanad district Congress president, who also evinced huge interest," said Chennithala. The Congress has already nominated Kozhikode district Congress president T. Siddique to contest from the Wayanad seat. The Congress state units in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka had also demanded that the party president contest the Lok Sabha elections from the respective states. Asked about the demands, Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said that Rahul Gandhi will positively consider it. "We thank them for their effort as also expression of their love and affection and Congress President will positively consider it," Surjewala told reporters. The Congress under Rahul Gandhi has tried to develop a convention of picking candidates on the basis of recommendations of local party units. This could be employed in the case of the party president as well. The Congress earlier this month had announced that Rahul Gandhi will contest from his family bastion of Amethi. However, Deepak Singh, Leader of the Congress in Uttar Pradesh legislative council, said that Rahul Gandhi should respect the sentiments of the party's Kerala unit but he is having family relations with Amethi. "Rahul ji is a national leader. Every state wants him to contest. He must respect the feelings of party workers in Kerala but he is having family relationship with Amethi. Rajiv Gandhi won from Amethi and became Prime Minister. Amethi is going to repeat this. Rahul Gandhi, an MP from Amethi, will become Prime Minister," Singh, an MLC from Amethi, tweeted. Meanwhile, Union Minister Smriti Irani took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, saying the people of Amethi had rejected him and he was now creating a drama about demands being raised for him to contest from a southern seat. "Amethi ne bhagaya, jagah-jagah se bulawe ka swang rachaya, kyonki janata ne thukraya. (Amethi forced you to run away, creating drama of demands from different places, because people have rejected you)," Irani tweeted with a hashtag 'Bhag Rahul Bhag'. She used lines from Ramdhari Singh Dinkar's poem to taunt him with the words, "Sinhasan khali karo Rahulji ki janata aati hai (vacate the throne for people, they are coming)" which was also used by Jayaprakash Narayan to attract and encourage lakhs of people at the Ramlila Maidan in Delhi during the Emergency. The BJP has again fielded Irani from Amethi in the upcoming general election. In the last Lok Sabha polls, she challenged Rahul Gandhi in his bastion and was defeated by a margin of over one lakh votes. However, his victory was far less impressive than in most earlier Lok Sabha elections in Amethi. The Congress party's vote share was reduced to 46 per cent in 2014 as against the earlier figures of 71 per cent and 66 per cent in the 2009 and 2004 elections, respectively. The BJP, whose vote share in Amethi remained in the single digits in 2004, garnered 37 per cent of the votes cast in 2014. The seat has long been a stronghold of the Congress, which has not been defeated here in three decades -- barring in 1998, when the BJP's Sanjay Singh defeated Satish Sharma of the Congress by a margin of 23,270 votes. Amethi was regained by the Congress in 1999 when Sonia Gandhi was elected MP from there. --IANS bns/am/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indicative of a tough fight, the Congress has decided to field former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister from the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency, it was announced here on Saturday. Bhopal is one of the four seats the party has not been able to wrest from the BJP for the past three decades. The Congress is yet to release its list of nominees, but Chief Minister and PCC chief Kamal Nath made the announcement during a chat with reporters here on Saturday. Among all the leaders of various Congress factions, Digvijay Singh is seen as the only one with an all-Madhya Pradesh connect. Indore, Vidisha and Damoh are the other constituencies the Congress has not been able to wrest from the BJP for the past 30 years. The proposal to field Digvijay Singh follows Kamal Nath's suggestion that the party must field its best candidates from such BJP strongholds. The move is also seen as a way to stymie Digvijaya Singh, who has often embarrassed the party with his utterances. Two other senior leaders, Jyotiraditya Scindia and former Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, Ajay Singh, might be fielded from Gwalior and Sidhi respectively. The party had conducted a statewide survey and decided to reshuffle its pack for the upcoming elections. The Congress holds three of the state's 29 seats in the outgoing Lok Sabha - Chhindwara, Guna and Ratlam. The BJP, which swept 27 seats in 2014, later lost Ratlam in a byelection to Kantilal Bhuria, a former PCC chief. Scindia may shift to Gwalior after reports of possible dissensions within the party over his current Guna constituency. Bhuria would again contest from Ratlam. Though new Congress ally Jai Adivasi Yuva Sangathan (Jayas) has staked its claim for four tribal seats, including Ratlam, it might settle for two and Bhuria would thus stay put in Ratlam. Kamal Nath, who has represented Chhindwara for the past nine terms, would contest a by-election from the Chhindwara assembly seat. His son Nakul Nath might contest the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat. Digvijaya Singh, who was keen to join the fray from Rajgarh, is projected as a winning proposition from Bhopal. With nearly two million votes at stake, Digvijaya Singh could provide a strong challenge to the BJP, which has retained the constituency for five terms. Dogged by factionalism, the Congress has remained out of power for three terms in Madhya Pradesh. Through the Assembly elections, Digvijaya Singh was, therefore, tasked to eliminate factionalism from the party and he travelled through the state to bring about rapprochement among diverse groups. Digvijaya had announced self-exile from electoral for ten years after the Congress lost power in 2003. His critics termed the 'sanyas' a delusional tactic. After his exile ended in 2013, Digvijay Singh was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2014. Digvijaya Singh had commenced his Narmada Yatra on September 30, 2017, declaring it a private, religious journey. In six months, he covered 90 Asssembly constituencies and "friends" from the BJP also welcomed him at various places. (Chandrakant Naidu can be contacted at chandrakant.naidu@gmail.com) --IANS naidu/vm/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a complaint to the Election Commission of India on Saturday, the Goa Congress has demanded that the poll authority should strike down a state government order, which appoints two key coalition leaders as deputy Chief Ministers. "The order is a clear violation of the Model Code of Conduct and as such this order should be immediately set aside by the EC and strict and stringent action should be taken against the concerned officer and the government of Goa," Congress's head of the communications department for Goa, Trajano D'Mello, said in his complaint to the top poll authority in New Delhi. On March 20, days after BJP leader Pramod Sawant was sworn-in as Chief Minister, the State government issued an order appointing Vijai Sardesai of the Goa Forward Party and Sudin Dhavalikar of the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party as deputy CMs. With three MLAs each, the Goa Forward as well as the MGP provide crucial support to the BJP-led coalition, without whose numbers the government is likely to be in a minority. Addressing a press conference at the state Congress headquarters here, D'Mello said that the appointment of the two deputy Chief Ministers was to gain political capital by the BJP, in view of the upcoming elections to the Lok Sabha and the three by-polls in the coastal state. "These appointments were done at a time when the Model Code of Conduct was already announced and keeping the Lok Sabha elections and the by-polls in mind," D'Mello said. "With coming into force of the Model Code of Conduct of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and for the by-polls of the legislative assembly in the state, it is incumbent upon the government not to declare any decision which will influence the votes in favour of the party in power," the Congress leader said. "It is done solely for the purpose of attracting votes," D'Mello added. --IANS maya/oeb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Series: "Delhi Crime" (Netflix); Cast: Shefali Shah, Rasika Dugal; Director: Richie Mehta; Rating: *** (3 and a half stars) It isn't easy being on the right side of the law when all you get for your efforts is brickbats and insults from fence sitters. To say that this disturbing but finally redundant real-life crime drama whitewashes the khaki uniform would be frivolous and irresponsible to the extreme. What it does do is to humanise the police force by showing a cluster of fiercely committed police persons (the two main Khaki persona in the story are women) driving themselves over the edge to nap the perpetrators of the crime. Did the cops on the case really show this level of commitment? Does it matter? Heroism on a level where it heals society is unquestionable. Recreating in vivid vicious colours, the events before, during and after the life-changing 'Nirbhaya' gang rape in Delhi, this seven-part series spares us the brutality of watching the rape but protects from none of the trauma and horrific aftermath of a crime that shook the conscience of the nation. As we hear our drama's hero Vartika Chaturvedi say, this crime was different, the savagery was unprecedented. She got it right. I will never forget the sequence where the ravaged girl is rolled into the hospital bloodied, brutalised beyond all human explanation, in pain beyond all endurance she tells her father, "I will be fine". We do that all the time. We keep saying things will be fine when we know they will only get worse. Director Richie Mehta negotiates with powerful hands the many hurdles that a crime investigation so complex must face. This is a very professionally handled crime drama, superior to some of the real-life crime dramas on television (some of which are not bad at all) mainly for the level of performance director Mehta gets out of the cast especially Shefali Shah. But it doesn't achieve that level of emotional impact that I expected from the product considering the fine talent that's gone into it. There are two reasons why "Delhi Crime" stops short of being a masterpiece on real-life crime. For one, it holds back way too much of the angst probably to appeal to a global audience. The attempt to subdue the sheer insanity of the crime is admirable but eventually a fatal error of judgment. A more immediate crisis of efficacy emerges from the fact that "Delhi Crime" resembles a very recent Netflix film "Soni" which was in every way a superior work. The domestic disarray in the life of the female cops and the professional dynamics between two female officers in "Soni" is echoed here in the rapport that grows between the two cops played by Shefali Shah and Rasika Dugal, both in fine form imbuing the contours of crime with an implosive reined-in anger at a system that fosters inequality and brutality. Shefali Shah is specially powerful. She is compelling because her anger is internalised, palpable. She not only anchors the series with her persuasive presence, she also diminishes and decimates the rather disturbing feeling we get that this sort of stark recreation of India's most well-known sex crime serves no purpose except to remind us that the change we hoped to see in the number of rapes in our country never happened. Nirbhaya lives, and dies, again. Long live Nirbhaya. --IANS skj/nn/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) supremo and former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda will contest from the Tumkur Lok Sabha constituency in south Karnataka, a party official said on Saturday. "Deve Gowda will file his nomination on March 25 at the deputy commissioner's office at Tumkur as a joint candidate of the JD-S-Congress alliance," said JD-S spokesman Ramesh Babu in a statement here. Tumkur is about 70 km northwest of the state capital Bengaluru. The 85-year-old Gowda has shifted his parliamentary constituency from Hassan, about 180 km from here, after representing it for a record six times since 1991 to pave the way for his grandson Prajwal to contest in his place for the first time. Prajwal, the only son of Deve Gowda's second son and state PWD Minister H.D. Revanna, filed his nomination on March 22 from the Hassan parliamentary seat, which is the traditional bastion of the Gowda clan. Polling in Tumkur and Hassan will be held in the first phase on April 18 along with 12 other seats in the central and southern regions of the state. Polling in the remaining 14 seats will be held in the second phase on April 23. Vote count in all the 28 Lok Sabha seats across the state will be on May 23. --IANS fb/oeb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Telangana's main opposition Congress urged the state Governor on Saturday to disqualify nine legislators who defected to the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS). A delegation of Congress leaders led by party's central leader and former Union Minister M. Veerappa Moily called on Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan at the Raj Bhavan and submitted him a memorandum. They urged the Governor to direct the Assembly Speaker to disqualify those MLAs who have announced that they were leaving the Congress. The delegation included former Union Minister S. Jaipal Reddy, party Secretary incharge of party affairs in the state R. C. Khuntia, state Congress chief Uttam Kumar Reddy and Congress Legislature Party leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka. The party also resolved to take the up issue of defections at the national level and complain to the Lokpal. Earlier, Moily met senior party leaders and discussed the situation created by the defection of nine MLAs this month. This has reduced Congress party's strength in 119-member Telangana Assembly to 10. Moily told reporters that the TRS was engineering defections in the Congress and warned that Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao would have to pay a price for this. Terming defections a "blood cancer", he said party President Rahul Gandhi was concerned about it. Exuding confidence that Congress would come to power at the Centre, the former Law Minister said it would bring amendments to Anti-Defection Law to provide more teeth to the courts to deal with the problem. Khuntia said the MLAs who were elected on the Congress symbol should resign from the Assembly. Uttam Kumar Reddy alleged that the TRS was indulging horse trading by using the "ill-gotten" money. He claimed that the statements of all defected MLAs were similar and typed in the Chief Minister's office. --IANS ms/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actress Eva Mendes, who has taken an extended hiatus from acting to care for her daughters Esmeralda and Amada, says she would return to the big screen and she would like to work with her husband and actor Ryan Gosling. The two last starred with each other in the 2012 movie "The Place Beyond The Pines". Mendes told Extra magazine that she would "absolutely" work with Gosling again, adding: "I'm excited to go back to work, it's just not, like, I'm dying to do a movie again, so it has to be something really special." She also said that she is the stricter parent to the couple's daughters, reports femalefirst.co.uk. "I think I am. There's that term 'helicopter parent', but aren't you supposed to be a helicopter parent?... I'm strict about what they eat, and what they wear, and what time they go to bed. And what they watch, so yeah," the 45-year-old actress said. --IANS dc/nn/vc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With China putting on hold the efforts in United Nations Security Council (UNSC), spearheaded by France with UK and US, to declare terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad's chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, France has again taken the initiative on the issue and has approached to European Union for the purpose. The Ministry of External Affairs has said the political and economic union of 28-member states is expected to take a decision on the issue based on the principle of consensus. "France has taken up the matter with the EU. We understand that the EU will take its decision once their process of designating a terrorist is complete," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters on Friday. "It has to be a unanimous decision," he said. The EU functions under the principle of consensus. The move by France, a member of the EU, came days China put a hold on a fresh move to designate Azhar a global terrorist by the Sanctions Committee of the United Nations Security Council. Fourteen out of the 15 members of the UN Security Council supported the proposal, but China was the only country which did not go with the move. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UNSC 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. "Once the process by the EU is complete, they will make an announcement," Kumar said. Azhar's listing by the bloc will result in his travel ban as well as freezing of his assets in all 28 countries of the EU. On March 15, France imposed financial sanctions on Azhar and said it will work with its European partners to put the JeM chief's name on the EU list of persons and entities involved in terrorist acts. The United Nations has deemed the JeM to be a terrorist organisation since 2001. However, defying global opposition to terrorism, China has repeatedly vetoed sanctions against Azhar. --IANS bns-ps/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police in Germany on Saturday arrested 10 people on suspicion of planning an Islamist attack. The arrests were made after some 200 police officers carried out raids in the states of Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate, reports the BBC. The men had plotted to "kill as many 'non-believers' as possible" using a vehicle and guns, prosecutors said. A 21-year-old man from Offenbach, near Frankfurt, and two 31-year-old brothers from Wiesbaden were the main suspects. "They had already made contact with different arms dealers, rented a large vehicle and collected financial assets to use for the purchase of guns and the execution of the planned murders," a spokeswoman for the prosecutor's office said. Police seized 20,000 euros ($22,500) in cash during the raids, as well as knives, drugs, a number of electronic devices and documents. Germany has been on high alert following several jihadi attacks in recent years. The most deadly was in December 2016 when a man drove a lorry into a crowded Christmas market in Berlin, killing 12 people. --IANS ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid claims on social media that "shuddhikaran" (purification) was conducted at the site where late Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's body was kept in the government-run Kala Academy for public to pay last respects, Goa's Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude has ordered a probe into the matter. Gurudas Pilernekar, member secretary of the state's premier Arts and Culture centre, told IANS that while a probe had been ordered by the institution, prima facie the four Hindu priests had been called by an academy staffer for chanting of the 'Om' mantra. He, however, did not explain why the Om mantra chanting exercise had been conducted. "The minister has already ordered a probe into the incident, but prima facie it appears that what rites the four pandits had performed was not a purification ceremony, but chanting of the Om mantra," Pilernekar said, after photos of the four priests chanting and walking about in the area, where Parrikar's remains had been kept for a day on March 18, before his cremation. Parrikar died on March 17, after a prolonged battle with advanced pancreatic cancer. In a Facebook post, Gaude, said that the Kala Acedemy, which functions under the aegis of his ministry, does not promote unscientific activities. "I have taken a strong note of some activities carried out in the Kala Academy premises as rituals today. I have ordered an inquiry into it. We cannot promote or patronise unscientific activities inside government buildings," Gaude said. Speaking to reporters, the minister also said that he does not know "whether it is shuddhikaran or shantikaran (pacification) ceremony". --IANS maya/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Syrian envoy on Friday said that the Syrian Golan will always remain an Arab Syrian territory, reacting to US President Donald Trump's surprise tweet that the US would recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. "The statement made by the American President and his administration officials regarding the occupied Syrian Golan, and the visits of individuals who claim their representation of the American people, will never change the fact that the Syrian Golan was and will remain an Arab Syrian territory," Bashar Jaafari, Syria's permanent representative to the UN, told reporters at the UN headquarters in New York. "The Syrian people are more resolute and determined than ever to liberate this precious part of the Syrian territory by all means, and regain the Syrian sovereignty right over it," he added, Xinhua reported. Trump has overturned decades of US policy by saying in a tweet on Thursday that it was time to recognise Israel's sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, which it captured from Syria in 1967. Trump said in the tweet that the plateau was of "critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and regional stability." "The Government of the Syrian Arab Republic strongly condemns this irresponsible statement on the legal status of the occupied Syrian Golan," the Syrian ambassador said. --IANS vc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Changes in the SEBI listing and prevention of insider-trading regulations, revisions in the double-taxation avoidance agreements (DTAAs) with Mauritius and Singapore are set to come into effect from April 1. The changes in DTAAs give India the right to tax capital gains arising on Indian equity shares sold by a Singapore or Mauritian resident All this may also help improve corporate governance standards for the listed companies in India. Indian financial markets recently saw several cases of high volatility in companies, like Sun Pharma, DHFL and IL&FS, which created panic among retail investors. In all these, the role of the board came under lens. The modifications in the listing agreement will improve corporate governance by making relevant changes in the organisation of the board. Among the key regulations, which will come into effect, are that the top 1,000 listed companies will be required to have at least six directors on their board against three, prescribed by the Companies Act 2013. Besides, the top 500 will also need to have at least one independent woman director. Also, a director can hold that position in not more than the eight listed entities, while an individual will not be permitted to be independent director in more than seven companies. A detailed explanation will be required if an independent director resigns before completion of the term. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has also amended insider-trading regulations. As per the amendment, the definition of unpublished price sensitive information (UPSI) has been narrowed, allowing listed companies to share such information for board-determined legitimate purposes, but only if the disclosure is in the best interest of the company. While UPSI will help check insider-trading, the SEBI regulations have permitted flexibility by allowing block trade between insiders or between related parties within a company sharing same UPSI. The changes will also keep transactions undertaken due to a regulatory obligation and exercise of stock option at a pre-determined price out of the ambit of insider-trading. The new requirements with relation to SEBI regulations will also apply to intermediaries like auditors, accountancy firms, law firms, analysts and consultants. They'll have to put in place internal controls to check insider-trading. Additionally, the concessional tax regime for investors under the earlier DTAAs for making investments into India via Singapore and Mauritius will cease to exist from April 1. India amended DTAAs with Singapore and Mauritius in 2016. It gave India the right to collect tax on capital gains arising on Indian equity shares sold by a Singapore or Mauritian resident. --IANS ravi/sn/ksk/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Authorities in Iceland has temporarily closed the canyon of Fjaorargljufur, a popular tourist attraction, due to environmental damage caused by an ever-increasing number of visitors, the media reported. Located in southern Iceland about 70 km from Vik, the canyon will be closed until June, despite the early summer start of the country's high tourism season, CNN quoted the Environmental Agency of Iceland as saying on Friday. The canyon was also briefly closed for weather-related maintenance in 2018. While Iceland has many gorgeous natural formations throughout the country, the 100-meter-deep Fjaorargljufur has become very popular for several reasons. Its tall, slender canyon walls are sheer, creating a beautiful effect that photographers love. Inga Hlin Palsdottir, director of the national tourism agency Visit Iceland, told CNN that it was not not fair to blame over-tourism for Fjaorargljufur's closure. "It's just a natural wonder that wasn't meant to be that popular," she said. "We need to build a better infrastructure there so we can invite people all year round. We need paths that can be discovered all year round. It's not only because of nature, it's a safety issue." Iceland's popularity as a tourism destination has skyrocketed in the past decade. Nearly 2.2 million people visited the country in 2017, according to the Icelandic Tourist Board, a figure which was way more that the number of people -- just 350,000 -- who actually live in Iceland. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Indian and Pakistani armies exchanged heavy fire on the Line of Control (LoC) on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district. Defence Ministry spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Devender Anand said, "At about 5.30 p.m. today the Pakistan Army resorted to unprovoked ceasefire violation on the LoC in Poonch district." "They used mortar shelling and firing by small arms to target Indian positions," he said, adding that our troops are retaliating effectively. The firing is still continuing. --IANS sq/rs/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Islamic State (IS) has lost its last stronghold in Syria, the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Saturday, bringing an end to the so-called caliphate declared by the terror group in 2014. The SDF said it defeated the IS and fully liberated Baghouz in eastern Syria, reports CNN. "Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of the so-called caliphate and 100 per cent territorial defeat of IS. On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible," tweeted Mustafa Bali, head of the SDF press office. At its peak, the IS controlled a huge stretch of territory stretching from western Syria to the outskirts of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad. But the final battle took place in the past several weeks around the small and otherwise unremarkable Syrian town of Baghouz, on the banks of the Euphrates River. A coalition of Kurdish and Arab soldiers backed by the US, British and French special forces launched the last assault in Baghouz early last month. For weeks, US-led coalition airstrikes had pummelled parts of the town while fighters from the SDF pushed forward on the ground. Before the offensive started, SDF officials estimated that 1,500 civilians and 500 IS fighters remained, but as the assault got under way it became clear that the actual number was much higher. The final phase of the battle was delayed to allow thousands more civilians to get out of of the besieged town. The militants who mounted the last stand in Baghouz included some of the most battle-hardened and experienced personnel remaining in the IS, and the wives and children of the fighters were used as human shields. SDF commanders told CNN that its fighters had faced fierce resistance from the terror group, which slowed the offensive with snipers, improvised explosive devices. The militants had also dug a network of underground tunnels that allowed them to move from house to house undetected. At the group's height, 7.7 million people were estimated to live under IS rule. Despite the loss of territory and funds, a UN-monitoring committee estimated last July that IS membership in Iraq and Syria was still between 20,000 and 30,000. In total, 41,490 international citizens travelled to Syria and Iraq to join the IS. --IANS ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Veteran actress Soni Razdan says it is special for her to shoot in Kashmir as she is half Kashmiri. The 62-year-old actress, whose father was a Kashmiri Pandit, said her experience while shooting for "No Fathers in Kashmir" was special all the more because of her "Kashmir connect". "Being half Kashmiri, it's always special for me to shoot in the valley and to be there with the locals. They are all very warm people who are very hospitable and genteel, and always welcome everyone with an open heart," Soni said in a statement. The film, directed by Ashvin Kumar, is about a teenage British-Kashmiri, Noor, who re-traces her roots in search of her father. Talking about working in the film, Soni said: "When Ashvin first sent me the script, I was immediately drawn to the compelling story he had. And it's so refreshing to see a filmmaker who's writing a story about Kashmir which isn't just a love story or some kind of an action drama. This is a film which speaks the truth and shows the reality." After an eight-month battle with the Central Board of Film Certification Kumar's directorial "No Fathers in Kashmir" is scheduled to hit the screens on April 5. --IANS dc/nn/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Defying the pre-poll alliance between the ruling allies in Karnataka, outgoing Congress Lok Sabha member S.P. Muddahanumegowda on Saturday dared to re-contest from Tumkur constituency from where Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) supremo H.D. Deve Gowda is contesting and filing nomination on Monday. "Though my party (Congress) conceded my constituency (Tumkur) to the JD-S as part of the seat-sharing arrangement, I have decided to re-contest in response to the demand from thousands of my supporters and cadre," Muddahanumegowda told reporters in Kannada at Tumkur, about 70km northwest of Bengaluru. As part of the pre-poll tie-up, the Congress is contesting from 20 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats across the southern state, leaving the remaining 8, including Tumkur to the JD-S despite vociferous protests by the party's local leaders and cadres. "I will also file nomination on Monday as a Congress candidate from Tumkur again even if Deve Gowda files nomination as a JD-S candidate. In the event of my party not giving me B-form as its contestant, I will still be in the fray as an Independent," an agitated Muddahanumegowda said, adding he cannot let down his supporters at any cost. Accusing his party high command of going back on its word to allow all its nine outgoing or sitting LoK Sabha members to re-contest, the rebel MP said why he should be made a scapegoat when the party's other MPs were allowed to re-contest from their seats. In fact, with 9 wins in the 2014 parliamentary polls from the state, the Congress had the largest number of Lok Sabha members from Karnataka, accounting for 21 per cent of the 44 seats it won from across the country though lowest ever since the first general elections way back in 1951-52. The BJP won 17 and JD-S only 2 in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections from the state. Ironically, Deputy Chief Minister from the Congress G. Parameshwara, who hails from Tumkur district, is said to be backing Muddahanumegowda unofficially due to mounting pressure from the party's local leaders and cadres. "I hope my party leaders and the JD-S will understand the pulse of the voters and allow me to re-contest from Tumkur and re-allocate another parliamentary seat to the JD-S," said an emotional Muddahanumegowda. Earlier in the evening, JD-S spokesman Ramesh Babu said in a statement that former prime minister Deve Gowda would file his nomination on March 25 at the deputy commissioner's office at Tumkur as a joint candidate of the JD-S-Congress alliance. The 85-year-old Gowda has shifted his parliamentary constituency from Hassan, about 180km from here, after representing it for a record six times since 1991 to pave way for his grandson Prajwal to contest in his place for the first time. Prajwal, the only son of Deve Gowda's second son and state PWD Minister H.D. Revanna, filed his nomination on March 22 from the Hassan parliamentary seat, which is the traditional bastion of the Gowda clan. Polling in Tumkur and Hassan will be held in the first phase on April 18 along with 12 other seats in the central and southern regions of the state. Polling in the remaining 14 seats in the coastal and northern regions will be held in the second phase on April 23. Vote count in all the 28 Lok Sabha seats across the state will be on May 23. --IANS fb/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora (GKPD) on Saturday welcomed Union government's "positive and pathbreaking" decision to ban separatist organization Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) and holding its founder, Yasin Malik, responsible for the "genocide" of Kashmiri Pandits. The GKPD, a joint initiative of Kashmiri Pandit organizations in India and abroad, has been persistently demanding the formal acknowledgement that what the Kashmiri Pandits suffered was nothing but "genocide". "Today, Kashmiri Pandit community has proven to be triumphant in that the sword of their truth has prevailed over the sword of violence. Kashmiri Pandits have been steadfast in their truth, Satyamev Jayate, even in the face of an extremely hostile state administration and a complicit establishment," GKPD said in a statement. They said that the "victory" has been achieved because of the sacrifices and hard work of the entire Kashmiri Pandit community. "It culminated in the trailblazing Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which articulated that the first and foremost demand of the Kashmiri Pandit community was to recognize Kashmiri Pandit Genocide and Ethnic cleansing," the GKPD said. The GKPD MOU was presented to union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in September, 2018. "We thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for recognizing that the militant movement in Kashmir was not about liberation, not about economic suffering, not about justice but a theo-fascist movement which has brought great suffering to the land and its people," the statement added. "After years of waiting while steadfastly vouching for the truth, the community is looking at vindication of that stand." In a recent GKPD Conclave "Right the Wrong" held on February 23, 2019, PDP MP Muzaffar Hussain Baig had also endorsed Kashmiri Pandits' genocide and ethnic cleansing. The GKPD will announce a political steering committee very soon and GKPD will partner with all stakeholders in Jammu and Kashmir and Government so that Kashmiri Pandit demand that the community be declared as Internally Displaced People becomes real and that all reliefs as laid down in the United Nations guiding principles be applied to them. The Indian government on Friday outlawed the JKLF led by Muhammad Yasin Malik, alleging it was responsible for promoting terrorism and secessionism in the state. --IANS akk-bns/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Kashmiri businessmen and civil society members, here on Saturday, expressed anguish at the alleged silence of the world community and rights organisations over the 'repeated brutalisation of Kashmiris'. Addressing a media conference, Sheikh Ashiq, president of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), said: "The business community and the local civil society have organised this press conference to collectively express our anguish at the perennial silence of the world community and human rights organisations over the repeated brutalisation of our community." He said the battered body of Rizwan Asad Pandit, a 29-year-old school teacher, picked up for questioning on March 17, was returned to the family on March 19. According to the family, marks on the body proved that he was subjected to extreme physical violence. The video of his final ablution, shared on social media by his brother, showed torture and burn marks, the KCCI chief said and alleged it was widely believed that Rizwan died in the custody due to physical torture inflicted upon him. On the magisterial inquiry ordered int it, Ashiq said most such inquiries end up without any results. "Such inquiries, suffering from institutional bias and state interference, have rarely served the interests of justice. We have reasons to believe this killing would also see the same fate and killers would roam free, more confident in that their crimes will never be brought to account," he said. Appealing Governor Satya Pal Malik for a time-bound independent special commission of inquiry, the KCCI president said, "Till the time the commission submits report, it would serve the ends of justice if the case is treated to be one of custodial killing and all persons associated with it are put behind bars and kept away from active duty". --IANS sq/oeb/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Top Congress leaders in Kerala, including AICC general secretary Oommen Chandy and Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala, on Saturday urged AICC president Rahul Gandhi to contest from the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala. Speaking to the media in Kottayam, Chennithala said that he has already spoken to Gandhi when he visited Kerala earlier this month. "Today, we have again put forward our request and I have already spoken to the Wayanad district Congress president, who also evinced huge interest," said Chennithala. The Congress has nominated Kozhikode district Congress president T. Siddique to contest from the Wayanad seat. Chandy told the media that this is the request from Congress workers and "we wish and want that Gandhi contests from Wayanad". "Siddique has already been informed about this and he has welcomed it. Gandhi, if he decides to accept our request, then it would not only be a massive boost for the party in Kerala, but across South India," Chandy told the media. The Wayanad seat was formed in 2009 and is one of the strongest constituencies for the Congress party. Both in 2009 and 2014 it was won by senior Congress leader M.I. Shanawaz, but he passed away last year and since then the seat has been lying vacant. "If Gandhi decides to contest from Wayanad, I will be leading his campaign. Gandhi will win with the biggest margin in the country," said Siddique. Reacting to the news about the Kerala Congress' plea to Gandhi, CPI-M Kerala state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said that they do not fear such things. " We do not fear if Gandhi contests from Kerala. This move shows a loss of confidence of the Congress party. He should now let all know which constituency he would give up - Amethi or Wayanad," said Balakrishnan to the media. Former Mizoram Governor and BJP candidate from the Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha constituency, Kummanem Rajasekheran, said it's now clear that Rahul Gandhi has lost hope of retaining Amethi or northern India. "Since he is afraid, he is moving to a state considered safe and he would also have got the concurrence of the Left. Now what the Left should do is to withdraw their candidate from Wayanad," said Rajasekheran. P.P.Suneer of the CPI has been selected to contest from Wayanad constituency. Wayanad is a hilly district located in North Kerala that shares borders with both the neighbouring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. --IANS sg/oeb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday launched a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of running the entire state according to her whims. "Bengal is being run by just one person. She neither talks to anyone nor takes anybody's suggestion. She does whatever she feels like," Gandhi said while addressing a rally in this town in Malda district, about 385 km north of Kolkata. "Does Bengal not have any voice? Is it not important for Bengal to have its own voice? Should one person be allowed to run an entire state?" he asked. Gandhi also accused Banerjee of having done nothing for the state's people. "Nothing has been done for the farmers, youths here. Unemployment is everywhere. Only Mamata ji's speeches go on all day long. Tell me what has she (Banerjee) done for you? Has she revoked the taxes for the farmers? Has she given employment to the youths or helped out the small businessmen?" he questioned while the massive crowd responded with a resounding "No". Alleging that the Congress activists face relentless attacks from 'goons' of Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress every day, Gandhi said the situation will soon change. "Congress activists are throttled and beaten up every day... I want to congratulate all our party activists who fight for the of principle. I want to tell them to keep fighting for Congress and its ideology. Do not be afraid. I am with you. (We will) form government in Delhi. Then you will see what happens," he said. He thanked the people of Malda, a traditional Congress bastion, for always standing by his party and assured he will try to fulfil all their wishes. "I want to thank you because you have always stood with Congress. You have always given us love and support no matter what the condition of the party is. I will not forget this in my entire life. I will remember this when our party forms the government in Delhi. "I will fulfil all your needs. Be it farmers' issue, issues with jobs or land, I will try to help you out so long I am alive. Our relation is of love, not of politics," he said. Comparing the Banerjee government with the erstwhile Left Front regime in the state, Gandhi said both have failed to take Bengal on the path of development and claimed that the state can't progress until the Congress forms the government here. "You have seen the rule of CPI-M for years. They could not bring development. Then you chose Mamata Banerjee. But the situation in Bengal is the same. The atrocities that used to happen during the CPI-M rule are still happening under Mamata ji," he alleged. "We will try our best to form a Congress government in Bengal. I promise our party activists that Congress will keep fighting to form a Congress government in the state," he added. Gandhi also indirectly targeted sitting MP Mausam Benazir Noor, who has crossed over from the Congress to the Trinamool, and is now the latter's candidate from the constituency, saying she had "deceived" the people. "She has hoodwinked you by leaving the party under pressure. This is a Congress bastion, and you make her realise that by deceiving the people, one cannot work in Bengal," he said, without taking her name. --IANS mgr/ssp/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who delved into the murky depths of the 2016 election looking for links between President Donald Trump's campaign and Russia, has completed his probe and a tense nation awaits his findings that will profoundly affect the future of US Mueller submitted his report on Friday evening to Attorney General William Barr, who wrote to Congressional leaders that he may share its key findings this weekend. He has the prerogative to keep parts of it secret, but the House of Representatives with near unanimity, called for it to be released in full, and Trump has backed it. Even before Mueller completed his inquiry, the probe's tentacles reached deep into Trump's inner circle and led to the conviction of five important members, including former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, his personal lawyer Michael Cohen and former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn on various charges, like lying during investigations and others that were collateral like tax and financial fraud unrelated to the Russian link. After the 2016 election vaulted Trump, an outsider to traditional politics, into the presidency after his unconventional and divisive campaign defeated Hillary Clinton, the Democrats saw the hand of Russia and demanded the probe that coloured US for nearly two years. Whether the report produced after 22 months of investigations connects Trump personally to the Russian interference or not, either way it will impact US in the short as well as in the long term. And the odds appear to be that it does not signal a criminal, direct Trump-Russia connection because senior Justice Department officials in background briefings to US media said on Friday night that Mueller has not recommended any more prosecutions beyond those that have been launched. Republican Senator Steve Scalise declared that this confirmed that "there was never any collusion with Russia". Trump, who has kept a steady Twitter fire denouncing Mueller's probe as a "witchhunt", can claim vindication and continue in office. But his adversaries are not convinced and the most saw the Mueller probe as the ultimate weapon to drive Trump out of the office. If there is even the slightest hint that Trump willingly collaborated with the Russians or condoned his campaign's links with them, the "I-Word" - impeachment - looms. Whatever the report reveals, Representative Rashida Tlaib has said she will introduce an impeachment resolution while Representative Brad Sherman has already framed the charges for it. But the Democrat leadership and others were wary of such a course because of its impact on the deeply - and dangerously - divided nation. According to a RealClearPolitics aggregation of recent opinion polls, Trump has an approval rating of 42.5 per cent, with one poll by USA Today showing 48 per cent. James Comey, the former Federal Bureau of Investigation who was dismissed by Trump, said that he considered the latter as "morally unfit to be president", but warned in a New York Times op-ed against an impeachment. "If Mr. Trump were removed from office by Congress, a significant portion of this country would see this as a coup, and it would drive those people farther from the common centre of American life, more deeply fracturing our country," he wrote. Impeaching Trump is "just not worth it", Speaker Nancy Pelosi told the Washington Post earlier this month. "Impeachment is so divisive to the country that unless there's something so compelling and overwhelming and bipartisan, I don't think we should go down that path, because it divides the country." Congressional Democrat Hakeem Jeffries said that the vast majority of his party Representatives want to "proceed with caution". But Trump's opposition in the Democratic Party and also among Republicans will seek to find enough ammunition to step up attacks on his fitness for office and his credibility. Whatever the report may say, a "Plan B" is already in operation with several investigations handed off by Mueller to federal prosecutors. Their counterparts in Democratic-controlled states are also targeting Trump associates under state laws and the Mueller findings might give them the ammunition to go after them, and possibly the president himself. According to some reports, New York City prosecutors may take a look at Trump family members. The Democratic Party-controlled House is also ready to launch several investigations against Trump and his inner circle. It is widely accepted that Russians had a hand in leaking to WikiLeaks internal emails of Democrats that exposed internal manipulations that cast them in a negative light and caused divisions within the party ranks that helped Trump. Russians trolls, whether operating on behalf of President Vladimir Putin or financed by others, used social media to boost Trump in innovative ways -- not just through outright propaganda, but by sharpening existing ideological, racial, economic and social divisions to either suppress or increase participation by voter segments. Many Russians have been charged in connection with those campaigns. One of them, lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya, is charged with money laundering and she is alleged to have met Manafort, Donald Trump Jr., and Jared Kushner in New York's Trump Tower in June 2016 offering dirt on Clinton. The picture has been muddied by Trump's real estate company's negotiations with Russians that continued during his campaign and they may lead to further investigations about them. His lawyer Cohen admitted in a federal court that he was guilty of lying when he told Congress that the discussions had ended in January 2016 when they continued through June. The Mueller investigation has been controversial from the start. In May 2017, then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who had been a member of the Trump campaign, recused himself and handed off the issue to his deputy, Rod Rosenstein, who appointed Mueller. Mueller had previously served as the FBI Director under both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama and as assistant attorney general under Presidents George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Trump railed against Sessions for not taking charge of the probe and later dismissed him. Trump also fired Comey, who had been involved in the early Russia probe, reportedly because he would not drop investigations of Flynn. These could be construed as grounds for Congressional investigations of charges of obstruction of justice by Trump, which would be a criminal offence. (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed on Twitter @arulouis) --IANS al/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New Zealand has banned the possession and distribution of a manifesto believed to be written by the lone gunman who carried out the March 15 Christchurch mosques carnage where 50 people were killed, officials said on Saturday. The Office of Film and Literature Classification announced that the document is objectionable under the law, reports CNN. The so-called "manifesto" of Brenton Tarrant, the 28-year-old Australian charged with the massacre, spans more than 80 pages and is filled with anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim rants. "There is an important distinction to be made between 'hate speech,' which may be rejected by many right-thinking people, but which is legal to express, and this type of publication, which is deliberately constructed to inspire further murder and terrorism," said New Zealand's Chief Censor David Shanks. "It crosses the line." The document was posted on social media and was sent to the office of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern just before the shooting began. On Thursday, Shanks called on the public to delete any copies, as well as online posts or links to the document. People can also report any social media posts, links or websites. "New Zealanders can all play a part in denying those who exhort hatred, killing and terror," Shanks said. "Do not support the murderous objectives of its author by republishing or distributing it." Earlier this week, authorities banned footage of the fatal shootings, including edited clips and still images. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An off-the-cuff remark by Maharashtra Congress President Ashok Chavan, in an audio-clip that went viral on Saturday, sparked of speculation whether he was going to quit before the 2019 elections. The episode pertained to a conversation between Chavan and a party activist from Chandrapur, identifying himself as Rajurkar, seeking to voice resentment and opposition among party workers to nomination of Vinayak Bangade for the Chandrapur Lok Sabha seat. During the conversation, Chavan is heard saying: "I have also informed the party. Nobody is listening to me. I am also thinking whether to quit." He suggested Rajurkar raise the issue with central party leader Mukul Wasnik, implying he called the shots on candidature. "But, Wasnik is a non-entity before you," the caller replied. Later, when questioned by the media, Chavan - a former Chief Minister - said he had not heard the audio, but denied that he has quit. He also questioned "why a purely private conversation was made public in this manner". Agreeing that there are certain issues on the nomination announced for Chandrapur, he, however, said, "But, it is our internal matter and I would not prefer to discuss it publicly." The party also dismissed the speculation of Chavan quitting. "All these are just mischievous rumours to create confusion. The state party President has not reigned," state spokesperson Sachin Sawant told IANS. Chavan's quitting rumours gained quick credence coming barely hours after the party legislator from Sillod in Aurangabad, Abdul Sattar, suddenly resigned to contest as an independent candidate for the Lok Sabha, challenging Shiv Sena's Chandrakant Khaire and Congress' Subhash Zambad. A former minister and two-time legislator, Sattar took pains to maintain that he has "not rebelled, nor harboured any grievances/complaints against anybody in the party", but had quit on his own initiative. Congress insiders claim that on several occasions, the party has not even taken Chavan into confidence before declaring names of Lok Sabha candidates, even though he is also a sitting MP from Nanded. In fact, in the run-up to the elections in the past few days, there have been several "incomings" to the Bharatiya Janata Party from both the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party. Prominent among them are: Sujay, the son of Leader of Opposition Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil of the Congress and Ranjitsinh, the son of former Deputy Chief Minister Vijaysinh Mohite-Patil of the NCP, and others, who have been promptly rewarded with BJP tickets. --IANS qn/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday hoped that there was equal condemnation against rights violations by militants in the state as when the security forces are accused of it. His remark comes a day after a 12-year-old boy, who was taken hostage, was killed in a gunfight in Bandipora district's Mir Mohalla area along with two other militants. The police however, accused the militnats of shooting the boy dead. Taking to Twitter, Omar said: "I wish there was as much outrage in Kashmir against militants when they take a young boy hostage as there is when security forces are accused of human rights violations. "Selective outrage is cowardly and hypocritical." --IANS sq/pg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two petitions were launched calling for New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize for her handling of the March 15 Christchurch mosques carnage, the media reported on Saturday. A Change.org petition, that started four days ago, has garnered more than 3,000 signatures while a petition on French website AVAAZ.org received over 1,000 signatures, The New Zealand Herald reported. "Following the tragic events of Christchurch and the adequate, open and peaceful response of New Zealand Premier Jacinda Ardern, we wish to propose her as the recipient of the upcoming Nobel Peace Prize," the French petition said. Ardern has been praised by the international community for the way she led the country through the carnage where 50 people lost their lives. In recognition of Ardern's work, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with an image of her in a hijab hugging a Muslim woman. --IANS ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi Police are scanning CCTV footage to identify four-five accused who robbed Rs 1.40 crore from a businessman here on Friday, said a police officer here on Saturday. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. when Vinod Garg, a grain trader, and his son were returning to their home in Saraswati Vihar of Outer Delhi in a car with Rs 1.40 crore cash in a bag. "When they reached near Kapil Vihar of Rani Bagh, four-five bike-borne men wearing helmets intercepted the car and asked the duo to hand over the bag to them flashing guns. The accused dragged them out of the car and threatened to kill," Deputy Commissioner of Police Seju P. Kuruvilla told IANS. "The accused fled in their (trader's) car with the cash," the DCP said. "The police later found the car abandoned some 400 meters away from the spot," he said. --IANS sp/rs/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP chief Amit Shah on Saturday said that Congress President Rahul Gandhi should apologise for his chief advisor Sam Pitroda's statement on the February 14 Pulwama attack. "I demand from the Congress President that he must apologise to the families of the slain troopers," Shah told the media here. Shah's statement came in response to Pitroda's comments that incidents like the Pulwama suicide bombing that killed 40 CRPF troopers, "happen all the time" and that the UPA government also could have sent planes to Pakistan after the 2008 Mumbai terror attack but "that is not the right approach". Shah questioned whether the Congress considered heinous attacks as a normal phenomenon. "At a time when the country is growing rapidly towards the general election and the issue of national security is important for the voters, the statement of Sam Pitroda is very unfortunate," he said. He slammed the Congress saying that doubting the Indian Air Force was not right for any party's national president. He said that the Bharatiya Janata Party at the Centre has adopted a zero tolerance policy towards terrorism. --IANS bns-akk/ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Attorney General William Barr will not send his summary of special counsel Robert Mueller's report to Congress on Saturday, according to multiple media reports. Media reports were quoting a senior Justice Department official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorised to publicly discuss the review process, reports Xinhua. Mueller has wrapped up his inquiry into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election and possible coordination with US President Donald Trump's campaign by submitting a confidential report to Barr on Friday. Barr is reviewing Mueller's findings and said previously that he may provide Congress with the "principal conclusions" this weekend. --IANS vc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Subramanian Swamy here on Saturday said China's stance on Pakistan would change by September, and added India, China and the US should cooperate with each other by becoming the part of a 'trilateral system'. "China will change. If we tell them that the US, France and Russia have agreed to mark Pakistan a 'terror state' and they should do the same. They will have to change," he said on the sidelines of Annual Calcutta Dialogue 2019 in the West Bengal capital. "Our objective should not be to support the US or China, but to be a part of the trilateral system," he stressed. "Obviously, we would be closer to China as we are neighbours and both of us have influence in south-east Asia, either politically or culturally. Therefore, our objective should be not to involve in any bilateral controversy between these three countries ever," he said. According to him, if the US has a problem with China, India should have nothing to do with it. Same way, if India has a problem with the US, one should not expect China to side with India. On certain issues, China is expected to be with India and that has to be done with discussion as it is also a victim of terrorism. On China's support to Pakistan, he said: "When Chinese make a commitment, they keep it and that is what explains their relationship with Pakistan. I am not happy with their relationship with Pakistan and would like to request them to be with us instead or at least stay neutral." The priority should be to resolve all the tensions between India and China. India must be clear about neighbouring country's objective before promoting the Chinese language, understanding of their culture and so on, the BJP veteran said. --IANS bnd/ssp/rs/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tuberculosis (TB) bacterium primarily affects the lungs, but can also spread and cause secondary infections to the uterus and even the fallopian tubes, which can reduce chances of pregnancy, health experts warned ahead of the World Tuberculosis Day that falls on March 24. Usually caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) bacteria, TB is the top infectious killer worldwide, claiming around 4,400 lives a day. When the bacteria attacks the uterus, it causes uterine tuberculosis (also known as pelvic TB) which mostly affects women during the child-bearing period and is usually diagnosed during an infertility check-up. "Women are more often affected than males and due to uterine tuberculosis, two out of 10 females are unable to bear a child," Shweta Goswami, Infertility Specialist at Jaypee Hospital in Noida, told IANS. "In extreme cases, the uterine lining become so thin that it is unable to bear an implantation resulting in miscarriage," she added. Mtb bacteria is transported by blood to other organs including reproductive organs and causes infection in fallopian tubes, uterus or in endometrial lining. "Tuberculosis has the ability to severely damage the fallopian tubes, if not treated at the initial stage.. it can further lead to serious health complications and also result in infertility," Goswami said. Symptoms of TB in uterus include irregular menstruation, pelvic pain, continuous discharge which is stained with blood or without blood with a foul smell and bleeding after intercourse. A 2018 study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) showed that over 50 per cent of female patients in India coming for IVF procedure have been reported to have genital TB. The prevalence of genital TB among Indian women has increased from 19 per cent in 2011 to 30 per cent in 2015. In over 95 per cent of the cases, the infection was found to affect the fallopian tubes, in 50 per cent the endometrium and 30 per cent the ovaries. Moreover, nearly 75 per cent of women with genital TB were found to be infertile, and 50-60 per cent of women with infertility were found to have genital TB, the report stated. "Treating uterine TB should be of the utmost importance as soon as it is detected. There is social stigma attached with TB which makes it difficult for people to come openly and talk about it," said Shobha Gupta, Medical Director and IVF Specialist from Mother's Lap IVF Centre, New Delhi. There are combined tests which are used to investigate whether a person is suffering from TB which are a combination of AFB smear, culture and PCR for tuberculosis. "Also, with medication, women can be helped to conceive through ART, either IVF of or IUI, where intervention can be done to repair the after-effects," Gupta noted. According to the World Health Organization's (WHO) 'Global Tuberculosis Report 2018', India accounted for 27 per cent of the 10 million people, who had developed TB in 2017, besides making up 32 per cent of global TB deaths among HIV-negative people and 27 per cent of combined TB deaths. To combat the disease, it is essential that diagnostic facilities reach the farthest areas and people made aware of the consequences of contracting TB, said Rajkumar, Consultant Internal Medicine at New Delhi-based Indian Spinal Injuries Centre. "It is also important that people thwart the factors that contribute to TB by making their living conditions more hygienic, improving immunity, and having better access to nutrition," he added. (Rachel V. Thomas can be reached at rachel.t@ians.in) --IANS rt/na/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bolstered by an encouraging trend in the last general elections and subsequent state assembly polls, many tour operators and travel companies are gearing up for poll tourism, mainly targeting foreign tourists as political parties gear up for the April-May Lok Sabha contest. Poll tourism, which is emerging fast as a new segment, is not considered to be leisure travel and many operators are betting on overseas students studying in colleges and universities, media persons, youngsters and researchers keen to witness Indian elections to join their tours. "This new segment is fast emerging in India as overseas students, researchers and youngsters are increasingly taking interest in the world's largest democracy. They are keen to see how the Election Commission of India (ECI) conducts the poll process, which is a humongous exercise," Gujarat-based Akshar Travels chief Manish Sharma told IANS. According to tour and travel operators, poll tourism as a concept was tested in the Gujarat Assembly polls in 2012 and had received "good response" in the 2014 general elections and subsequent state assembly polls, though the scale of operations was on the "lower side". "This time, operators are gearing up and have started getting enquiries. About 5,000 tourists, taking the accumulated data from various operators, had come for the elections in 2014 from the US, the UK, UAE, Japan, Germany, France and many other European countries. Our expectation is that over 10,000 tourists will come this time for the polls," Sharma said. Like last time, the operators are planning to take tourists to public rallies of different political parties and trying to arrange interactions with candidates or ministers of the Central or state governments who are either in the fray or involved in the campaign for their respective parties, Travel Agents Federation of India National Committee Member Hitank Shah said. Asked why foreigners are keen to experience the poll process, he said: "Elections in India are like a festival. The Election Commission, too, calls the parliamentary battle the largest festival of democracy. Even the filing of nominations by the candidates has become colourful. Tourists coming from the UK, the US, Japan and some European countries want to see the political jamboree in India because they do not have the same kind of scenario in their respective countries. Along with witnessing the election process and procedure in India, the poll tourism packages covering 7-8 days tag known tourists destinations of various states so that the heritage, tradition and culture of India can be experienced, operators said. "We are expecting around 8,000-10,000 tourists to come and witness the election carnival in India. About 1,000-1,200 tourists have already made their bookings with various operators," Shah told IANS. Bookings and enquiries are "expected to go up" as political parties come out with full lists of candidates and start campaigning, Sharma said. Foreign tourists are keen to know how the electors choose their representatives in Parliament and how common people and political personalities interact with each other. The elections will be held in seven phases for 543 Lok Sabha constituencies from April 11 to May 19. The votes will be counted on May 23. Tour operators also said states with multiple-phase polls provide them a greater opportunity and flexibility to design the packages, while the 22 states and union territories going to the hustings in a single phase provides less flexibility. (Bappaditya Chatterjee can be contacted at bappaditya.c@ians.in) --IANS bdc/ssp/vm/am (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump's tweet on withdrawing sanctions against North Korea has sparked confusion among administration officials. The tweet set off a firestorm in the administration, with aides trying to understand what sanctions Trump was referring to and what the policy implications would be, CNN reported on Saturday. "It was announced today by the US Treasury that additional large scale sanctions would be added to those already existing sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional sanctions!" Trump tweeted on Friday. Many aides quickly concluded that the President was referring to sanctions targeting two Chinese shipping companies that have allegedly helped North Korea skirt sanctions imposed by the United Nations. But two sources familiar with Trump's tweet said it was in fact not about those sanctions, but instead about additional large-scale sanctions targeting North Korea that have been in the works. A senior official said the administration will not be pursuing additional sanctions against North Korea at this time and that the actions against the Chinese shippers remain in place. The White House declined to provide details on the sudden policy shift, but said Trump was pulling back the sanctions because he "likes" North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. More than two hours after the President's tweet announcing he would roll back the newly imposed sanctions, administration officials involved were still waiting for guidance from the White House on the meaning of Trump's tweet and how to proceed. --IANS mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi Police have arrested two persons for allegedly uprooting seven ATMs (automated teller machines) in the national capital and adjoining districts, said a police officer, here on Saturday. "Narender (30) and his accomplice Deshraj (25), both natives of Rohtak in Haryana, were involved in uprooting ATMs and an assault on a police party. They were arrested following a tip-off on Friday night when they had come to meet friends in Nasirpur village of Delhi," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) G. Ram Gopal Naik. "The accused targeted ATMs with no security guards. The duo, along with two other gang members -- Rohit and Ajay -- would remove ATMs with by using gas cutters and shift them to Kalawad in Rohtak," Naik said. "They would then dismantled ATMs and take cash out," he added. "The gang was involved in several burglaries in September-October 2018. Seven such incidents were reported in the outskirts of Delhi, Gurugram and Rohtak," the DCP said. Last year, Rohit and Deshraj also assaulted a constable after they were intercepted by a police vehicle in Najafgarh. Rohit was apprehended but Deshraj escaped. The fourth member of the gang, Ajay, is absconding, the DCP said. --IANS sp/arm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday said that the US will continue to support the Lebanese army, the National News Agency reported. "We will keep on supporting the Lebanese army, our strategic partner in fighting against terrorism," Pompeo was quoted as saying during his meeting with Armed Forces Commander Joseph Aoun. The US is the biggest provider of military aid to Lebanon. The Lebanese army has received a total of $1.5 billion in military aid from successive US administrations since the war with Israel in 2006, reports Xinhua. Pompeo said that Washington is committed to working continuously with Lebanon on preserving the country's peace and prosperity. Pompeo has ended a two-day visit to Lebanon where he held discussions with Lebanese officials focusing on Hezbollah and other issues of interest to both countries. --IANS vc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, the Congress party candidate from Telangana's Chevella Lok Sabha constituency, has declared family assets worth Rs 895 crore, making him the richest politician in both the Telugu states. Vishweshwar Reddy owns movable assets of Rs 223 crore, while the movable assets of his wife K. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals stood at Rs 613 crore. The movable assets of their dependent son were nearly Rs 20 crore. However, none of the family members own a car or any other motor vehicle. Vishweshwar Reddy also has immovable assets of Rs 36 crore while the same of his wife are valued at Rs 1.81 crore. The engineer-turned-politician submitted an affidavit declaring his and family assets while filing nomination on Friday. In 2014, he declared family assets of over Rs 528 crore. He had then contested and won as a Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) candidate. He joined the Congress on the eve of the Assembly elections last December. Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Minister P. Narayana, who owns the Narayana Group of institutions, also declared family assets of Rs 667 crore on Friday while filing nomination for the state Assembly from Nellore constituency. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu declared family assets worth Rs 574 crore while YSR Congress Party chief Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy and his wife own assets worth Rs 538 crore. --IANS ms/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) British Prime Minister Theresa May has told MPs that there might not be a third vote on her Brexit deal next week if there was insufficient support for it to pass. If it does not pass and no alternative plan is put forward, the UK is set to leave the European Union (EU) on April 12. And if it passes, the bloc has agreed to extend the Brexit deadline until May 12, the BBC reported. In a letter to all MPs on Friday night, May offered to talk to them over the coming days "as Parliament prepares to take momentous decisions". She said there were now four "clear choices", which were approving her deal next week; asking for another extension before April 12 which would mean the UK would have to take part in elections for the European Parliament; revoking Article 50 or cancelling Brexit; and leaving the EU without a deal. May also confirmed in her letter that the government would change the law to officially change the UK's initial departure date of March 29 from the EU. Meanwhile, supporters of another referendum will march through central London on Saturday. Campaigners say they expect hundreds of thousands of people to attend the 'Put It To The People' demonstration, which will be addressed by Labour's deputy leader Tom Watson, Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and others. Sturgeon has said that now was "the moment of maximum opportunity" to avoid a no-deal Brexit. A petition on Parliament's website calling for Brexit to be cancelled by revoking Article 50 has attracted nearly four million signatures. --IANS ksk/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After taking their protests to the National capital to highlight their demands, Tamil Nadu farmers are gearing up for an electoral battle and will file 111 nominations from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is contesting. Tamil Nadu farmers leader P Ayyakannu said Saturday that 111 farmers from the State will contest against Modi from Varanasi. Ayyakannu, who is also president of the National South Indian Rivers Inter-Linking Farmers Association, said the decision to contest the polls from Uttar Pradesh was to urge the BJP to include in their manifesto that their demands, including "profitable prices for farm produce," would be fulfilled. Speaking to PTI, the farmers leader, who spearheaded agitations in Delhi in 2017 for over 100 days, said the "moment they assure in their manifesto that our demands will be fulfilled, we will drop our decision to contest against Modi." In the event of that not happening, he said they would go ahead and contest against Modi. The decision to contest polls has the support of farmers everywhere and the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, Ayyakannu said. Asked why they were raising the demand with BJP alone and not other parties like the Congress to include it in their manifestos, he said the BJP was still the ruling party and Modi the Prime Minister. Parties like the DMK and the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam have assured full loan waiver, which is also one of the farmers' demands, in their manifestos, he said. "We are not against the BJP or our PM Modi. Before assuming power, Modi ji promised fulfilling our demands and assured to double our income. Even today he is our Prime Minister and the BJP is the ruling party and that is why we are making this demand to them." The leader wondered as to what stopped the saffron party from giving an assurance. Already, he said, he has booked train tickets for 300 farmers to go to Varanasi. Farmers from districts, including Tiruvannamalai and Tiruchirappalli, will reach Varanasi, he said. The BJP-led government at the Centre had promised to fulfill their demands including profitable prices for farm produce, loan waiver from all banks including nationalised, and cooperative and Rs 5,000 pension for farmers over 60, Ayyakannu said. "At the least, let the lone BJP MP from Tamil Nadu Pon Radhakrishnan commit that our promises will be honoured in the manifesto, we may think about reconsidering our decision," he said. In November 2018, farmers led by Ayyakannu had gone to Delhi with two "skulls," to take part in a kisan rally, saying it belonged to their colleagues who had allegedly committed suicide over debt. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 12-year-old girl allegedly committed suicide at her residence in Nagpada in south Mumbai, police said Saturday. Gulshan Mohammad Guddu Shah hanged herself with a dupatta in her first floor residence on Temkar Street Friday night when nobody was at home, Senior Inspector Shirish Gaikwad of JJ Marg police station said. "The incident came to light when her uncle came home but did not get any response when he knocked at the door. He then went to Gulshan's father's shop nearby and when he returned and opened the door, he found her hanging from a wall-mounted utensil rack," Gaikwad said. "She was rushed to hospital where authorities declared her dead on arrival. She is a Class VI student and had returned home with her siblings at around 9pm on Friday. The siblings went down to play after that," he said. A probe is on to find out the cause, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The sextoy market is growing quite rapidly in India right now. Although it is not a big trend, it is a hot topic on the internet as it is secretly expanding its market. In this article, we will focus on sextoy and introduce recommended sextoy for Indian beginners of sextoy by gender. India, the birthplace of the Kama Sutra, is very strict about sex. Also, premarital sex is basically not allowed. Therefore, there are many people who are sexually restricted. But what happens when you continue to be sexually restricted? Frustration may build up and you may end up taking your sexual stress out on your partner. If you are able to adopt sextoy in a timely manner, you can get rid of those problems. I want to have more exciting sex than Im having now. I want more variation in masturbation I want to get even stronger pleasure than I do on my own. If you have any of these problems, please stay with me until the end. What is sex toys for Indian? Sextoy, as the name implies, is a toy used during sex and masturbation. It is a generic term for vibrators, Egg-vibrators, Electric massagers, dildo, handcuffs and condoms. They are used to make regular sex more exciting or to make masturbation more pleasurable. Because sextoy is very stimulating, it can help you to get rid of the problems and frustrations of being in a rut of sex with your partner for a long time, or if you are unhappy with the lack of pleasure in sex with your partner. The ability to satisfy your desires with movement, texture, and size, which cannot be done by a normal human being, can help you to be satisfied with sex and, as a result, improve your relationship with your partner. It is also said to help improve sexual dysfunction (inability to get an erection or ejaculate) and difficulty in feeling during sex (insensitivity), which is attracting more attention than in the past. In recent years, the demand for sextoy has increased due to the spread of smartphones and the Internet and the increasing number of people using online shopping. Even those who are concerned about the appearance of sextoy (and find it difficult to purchase) can now easily obtain it by using mail order. In the case of online shopping, most of the stores have taken steps to ensure that the contents of the products delivered to you are not revealed, so you can purchase them without your family members knowing. Until a while ago, you had to go to the store where the adult goods were sold to buy them, so it was quite a hurdle to overcome. Also, many people may have an image that sextoy is somehow embarrassing to own. But nowadays, some of them are so stylish and cute that you cant believe they are sextoy at a glance. More and more people are using them for travel and outdoor use because they are not too bulky and are suitable for carrying around. Sextoy situation in India Before introducing the recommended sextoy for Indians, lets talk about one of the sextoy situations in India in recent years. In India, due to the high concentration of population, the following six cities have particularly high sales of sextoy in India. Mumbai Kolkata Bangalore Delhi Chennai Hyderabad These cities account for roughly 70 percent of sextoy sales in India. In the future, the percentage of sextoy use will gradually increase in other cities in India as well. If you never talk about sextoy publicly, that girl in your neighborhood might be a sextoy user too. If you are interested in sextoy, you dont have to suppress your desire for it. What are Sextoys for beginner? Among all sextoys, sextoy for beginners are vibrators, dildo, masturbators, Sex Lubricants, and condoms. Sex Lubricants and condoms, which are familiar to people who have had sex, are also a great beginners sextoy. I will explain the details of each toy later, but there are many sextoy products that are painful to use and can only be used after some anal expansion. I assume that the Indian readers of this article are people who have not had much experience with sextoy. If such people use professional sextoy suddenly, they are at risk of injury or trauma. Therefore, to introduce sextoy, you need to start with a beginners version and gradually become familiar with it. Advantages of using sextoy for Indians There are three advantages of using sextoy for Indians You can masturbate in a wide variety of ways. Can have stimulating sex Can develop new sexual zones If you try to masturbate with your own fingers or hands, it tends to be a pattern. However, with sextoy, you can easily masturbate in a variety of ways. You will definitely be fascinated by the attraction of new stimulation. Also, your daily sex life will be more exciting than ever. There are many things in sextoy that are visually stimulating and give you a strong and intense feeling of pleasure. This allows you to see your partners promiscuity in a way that you wouldnt normally see it. When you are in a relationship, sex with your partner may become a pattern, but it can also eliminate these problems. It can also lead to the development of new sexual zones (which is the training of sexual stimulation to allow you to feel orgasms). For more information on the development of new sexual zones, see the following articles [Women's Erogenous Zone]How to find and develop, 7 hidden sexual zones !![In India] In this issue, we will dissect the female erogenous zone! ..." Many of you may be like that. Men, in particular, shou... Thus, the use of sextoy can only be a good thing for the men and women of India. Sextoy for beginner men in India So, lets continue with the recommended goods for Indian sextoy beginners. For ease of understanding, we will introduce them by gender. Lets start with the men! The following five goods are recommended for novice Indian sextoy men Masturbator Cock rings Love Doll Sex Lubricants Toys for the prostate Lets check each one in detail. Masturbator The masturbator is a sextoy for men that elaborately reproduces a womans vagina, mouth, and anus, and is one of the most popular sextoy products. It is used by men to masturbate, and it is popular because it provides stronger stimulation and pleasure more easily than using hands. Most are made of good quality silicone, and their softness is something that cannot be achieved with ones own hands. They can provide stronger pleasure than a real womans vagina, so be careful not to overuse them. (You wont be able to have an orgasm in a womans vagina anymore.) Again Male masturbators are a wonderful toy. I do not need any favourite timing, bothersome bargaining. You do not have to worry too much. Revolutionize your masturbation time! ! ! Made in Japan is a wonderful kinky toy.#sextoysindia #SexToyIndia #Japanhttps://t.co/4k70QGzoTP pic.twitter.com/tRVdxTKPpa SEXToys India PR (@SextoysIndia) November 12, 2018 Some of them are disposable, while others can be washed and used over and over again, so its fun to buy a few to use depending on your mood. If you want to know more about masturbator, please click here Really pleasant male masturbation and how to do it Are you in a rut with your daily masturbation routine? I'm going to show you five ways men masturbate that you might ... [For Beginners] How to choose and use a male masturbator without fail Gentlemen.Have you ever used a masturbator? The person who sees this article is probably the one who has not experien... Cock Ring A cock ring is literally a ring-shaped sextoy that is worn on a mans penis. It maintains an erection by binding the penis with a ring of rubber and blocking blood flow. It is sometimes used as an accessory to be worn on the penis, and may be made of metal or plastic as well as rubber. In some cases, cock rings have parts or vibrators attached to them that stimulate the vagina, so they kill two birds with one stone, giving a woman pleasure while maintaining an erection. Cock rings are also sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction. It can help with erectile dysfunction, where the penis doesnt get hard when you get an erection or doesnt last long when you try to insert it. Men who are prone to breakage or who are unsure of the hardness and size of their erections can use a cock ring to increase the size of their penis and maintain an erection for a longer period of time. Cock rings vary in price from around RS700 to over RS2000 with a vibrator function. Some of them do not fit your penis, so you should check the size of the cock ring before you buy. You should know the size of your partners or your own penis when it is erect. [Penis enlargement] What is a cock ring? Types and usage Cock rings can make your penis bigger and harder. It also makes sex with women more fulfilling and increases your sat... Love Doll Love dolls, also known as Dutchwives, are dolls with the appearance of a woman who can experience simulated sex. There are dolls that look like a woman, but they have no face and only have their breasts and lower torso cut off, and some dolls are so realistic that they can actually be mistaken for real women. Some expensive dolls can cost more than 1 million yen, and the quality of the doll is easily influenced by the price. The higher the price, the higher the quality of the doll will be, the closer it will be to the real woman, and the cheaper the doll will be, the less elaborate it will be, making it look like a real doll! Something is wrong! That is also true. You cant go wrong if you choose a balance between price and taste. There are stores that allow you to make custom-made love dolls, so you can create a girl of your choice. You can make a girl of your choice. You can start with inexpensive love dolls at first, and once you get used to it, you can try custom-made love dolls. If you want to know more about Love doll, please click here Thorough explanation of the charm of sex dolls! Have you ever heard of sex dolls that are used primarily for pseudo-sex purposes? It is a doll that is quite close to... Sex lubricants Sex lubricants are used as a substitute for lubricating fluid during sex or as a lubricant for men to use masturbator rules. It is not uncommon for women to have difficulty getting wet, depending on their physical condition, or to have difficulty getting wet due to their constitution. Forcing the penis into the vagina at such times can cause painful intercourse. There are various types of Sex Lubricants, some with a warming effect, some with a cooling effect, and some with a scent. Changing the Sex Lubricant used during play is recommended as a good sex accent. If you want to learn more about Sex Lubricants, click here. What is sex lubricant?Explain the difference and usage of each ingredient The word "sex toy" may seem like a hurdle to overcome, but lotion is actually one of the most familiar sex toys. Many... Toys for the Prostate Another sextoy for men is prostate toys. The most famous prostate toys include Enemagra, which was originally a prostate massager developed by an American urologist to treat an enlarged prostate line. Modern prostate toys are imitations of Enemagra that have spread as sextoy for men. Many people think of prostate toys as being used by gay men, but in fact they are often used by straight men. What is the prostate? The prostate is an organ found only in men. It is a walnut-sized organ located deep in the pelvis, just below the bladder, and its primary role is to protect and nourish sperm. You cannot touch the prostate gland from outside the body, but you can touch it by inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus. By inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus and touching the prostate and developing it, you can feel intense orgasms. Orgasms felt in the prostate are mainly dry orgasms, which are orgasms that do not involve ejaculation. (You can also feel orgasms with ejaculation through prostate stimulation.) The prostate is called the male G-spot, and dry orgasms can be much more intense than ejaculation. Therefore, men who are able to develop a prostate can become addicted to the pleasure. sextoy for beinner women in India The following are the recommended goods for Indian women who are new to sextoy. The following three are recommended for use by women who are new to sextoy. Vibrator. Dildo Electric Masserger Lets check out what each one is in detail. If you want to check out womens toys, click here. [BEST25]Sex Toys for Women in IndiaThat Can Help You Have an Orgasm There are many women who pretend to feel orgasm during sex. But don't worry, you don't have to pretend to feel orgasm... Vibrators A vibrator is a sextoy that vibrates with an Egg-Vibrator to provide stimulation and is often referred to simply as a vibrator. Some vibrate as well as rotate, and there are many variations of sextoy. It is quite a popular sextoy, and is well recognized by people who do not know much about sextoy. Its usage is similar to that of a massager, but it is more compact and easier to carry than a massager, and many of them look as cute as a lipstick or a macaroon, so they are popular among women. For a while, a famous influencer on twitter said, This is good! You may have heard of the topic of this article by introducing the recommended vibrators. Vibrators are great for women to use on their own, but they are also recommended for men who have difficulty satisfying women with sex. Since it is powered by electricity, it is far less tiring than moving your hands by yourself. This makes it easier to satisfy a woman with sex because you can caress her for longer than usual. Vibrators are mainly used on the female side, but they can also be used on men. When used on men, they are used to attack the nipples and glans, and in both cases it is recommended to wear a condom for hygiene reasons. Introducing how to use the vibrator, its purpose, and how to choose it! Vibrator uses the vibrations caused by the rotation of the motor to provide stimulation. It is one or two of the most... Dildo A dildo is a model sextoy made to mimic a male penis. It can be made of silicone, elastomer (think of it as a material similar to PVC), metal or glass. A dildo can be used by a man for his female partner during sex, or by a woman for masturbation to get pleasure from it. They are mainly inserted into women, but some can be used in the male anus as well. It is sometimes used synonymously with vibrators, but the vibrator is not the same thing as a vibrating device. A model of a penis that does not vibrate is a dildo. Some of them have suction cups that can be attached to the floor or wall so that you can enjoy realistic masturbation without using your hands. For fun, there is a dildo made in the shape of your partners penis. This one is also popular as a gift, and if youve been together for a long time and are having trouble finding a gift for your partner, you might want to pick one. To learn more about dildo, please click here. What is Dildo: Orgasms with Dildos for Men and Women A dildo is a model of a male organ that is used by women for masturbation and by men to stimulate the prostate gland. Th... Electric Masserger A Electric Masserger is a hand-held electric massager, also known as a handheld massager, and can usually be purchased at electronics stores. It was originally designed to relieve stiff shoulders and back pain, so the hurdle of buying one in a physical store is quite low. Many people may have seen or used it in some form or another, as it is often installed in leisure hotels. Such a massager is highly recommended for beginners because it is easy for women to get pleasure from it when they use it during masturbation. It is larger than Egg-Vibrator and vibrations are stronger than those of Egg-Vibrators and vibrators, so even just hitting the clitoris can give you a great deal of pleasure. For those women who have never had an orgasm during sex with their man, the massager may be a good way to get a feel for what it feels like to have an orgasm. It looks and feels like an electric massager, so you wont have to feel awkward if your roommate finds out. If you are in a rut of having sex with your partner, if you want to feel an orgasm through masturbation, or if you are thinking of using a sextoy, why dont you try it from a simple massager? To learn more about Electric Masserger, click here. What is a massager? Introducing types, selection methods, and usage Originally, the Magic-wand vibrator and the massage machine were sold as a home massage machine used for the back and th... How to choose a sextoy for Indian Now that weve covered the different types of sextoy, heres how to choose one. Especially if you are trying sextoy for the first time, pay attention to the following three points: Does the size fit you (the partner)? Does the size fit you (your partner)? Is the environment able to produce sound without problems? Price range First of all, the choice of size is quite important. Most sextoy are used against or inserted into the genitals, but the genitals are very delicate organs for both men and women. For this reason, using an inappropriate size may cause damage. Secondly, the environment should be able to produce sound without problems. Some sextoys not only wear, but also rotate and vibrate. Its easier to get pleasure from something that moves than something that doesnt, but the fact that it moves means that the internal rotors make some noise. If you live in a house with thin walls or if you have roommates, you may not be able to concentrate because of the noise, so it is best to choose one that is silent or has a low noise level. Especially in India, where many people live with their families, it is very important that you dont have to worry about sound when you use it. Finally, there is the price range. The price range of sextoy ranges widely, from around RS500 at the cheapest to RS10,000 or more at the highest. Its good to consider how much money you can afford and how much you want to buy. Do you want your family to not find out about sextoy? I live with my family and want to use sextoy without them finding out! If you are a man, you should buy a camouflage sextoy that does not look like a sextoy at first glance. For men, there are many masturbators that do not look like a sextoy, and for women, there are vibrators that only look like cosmetics. If you choose such a type, youll be safe in case your family members find out. How to buy sextoys in India The best way to purchase sextoy is through online shopping. For more information on how to purchase sextoy, please see the article below. Sextoy is one of them. Therefore, you can easily get sextoy in India by using online shopping. SexToysINDIA is a long established and stable sextoy store and you can have sextoy delivered to any place in India. They also offer cash on delivery, so those who are worried about shopping with a credit card do not have to worry. Of course, the latest security is in place, so your information will not be taken out when you use your credit card. To begin with, many people may be concerned about whether they are legally allowed to purchase sextoy. ikmAs it turns out, its not illegal. Right now, it is not open to the public because the Indian adult market is still in the development stage, but it will gradually spread from now on. Take advantage of sextoy and open the door to new pleasures and culture. Cautions for Indians using sextoy When using sextoy, keep the following three things in mind Keep sex toys clean Watch out for electrical leakage Beware of the heat generated by the body while using a sex toy As I mentioned earlier, many sextoy products are used for the delicate zone. Therefore, it is most important to keep the sextoy itself clean. It is very important to keep the sextoy itself clean, because if a slight scratch is created by friction, bacteria can enter and breed there. It is safe to wear a condom when using the masturbator, just in case. In addition, many sextoy devices are powered by a power source, so if they are not waterproof, there is a possibility of electric shock or malfunction due to wetness. Some may even develop heat during continuous use. If the fever becomes too much, you may get burned, so be careful. If you get a fever during use, stop driving the sextoy immediately and refrain from using it. You will enjoy sex more if you keep it safe and use it correctly. Summary What did you think? In this article, we have introduced the recommended sextoy for the beginners of sextoy in India. The sextoy market is growing rapidly in India and it will continue to grow steadily in the future. As India is a rather closed-minded country, it can be difficult to be open about ones sexual habits and values. However, being faithful to ones desires by properly dissolving ones sexual desire is very effective for ones physical and mental health. If this is your first time to learn about sextoy, or if you are interested in using sextoy, why not give it a try? Indian Sextoys for ur best! will introduce you to sextoy and other trivia about sextoy, sexuality, and sexuality for men and women. I want to read more! If you think its a great idea, please bookmark it. A tour bus with 56 people on board caught fire in China's central Hunan province, killing 26 people and injuring 28 others, officials said Saturday. The accident occurred on Friday when the 59-seater bus from the neighbouring Henan province suddenly caught fire on a highway in Hanshou county in Changde city. The 28 injured were rushed to three local hospitals. Five of the injured are in a critical condition, state-run Xinhua agency quoted local officials as saying. The bus had 53 passengers, two drivers and a tour guide at the time of the incident. The two drivers were detained and an investigation into the cause of the accident was underway. The incident came a day after 64 people lost their lives while 640 were injured in a powerful explosion at a chemical plant in eastern China. The blast occurred on Thursday following a fire in a fertilizer factory in a chemical industrial park in Yancheng, Jiangsu province, according to the government of Xiangshui county. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A tour bus caught fire in central China's Hunan Province on Friday killing 26 people, local authorities said. The 28 injured in the incident were rushed to three local hospitals for treatment. Among them the condition of five were state to be critical, state-run Xinhua agency quoted local officials as saying. The accident occurred around on Friday evening when the 59-seater bus from neighbouring Henan province suddenly caught fire on a highway in Hanshou County in the city of Changde. The bus had 53 passengers, two drivers and a tour guide at the time of the incident. The two drivers were detained and an investigation into the cause of the accident is underway. The incident came a day after 64 people lost their lives while 640 were injured in a powerful explosion at a chemical plant in eastern China. The blast occurred on Thursday following a fire in a fertilizer factory in a chemical industrial park in Yancheng, Jiangsu province, according to the government of Xiangshui county. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Film actor and Ahmedabad East Lok Sabha MP Paresh Rawal will not contest the forthcoming general polls, Gujarat state BJP chief Jitu Vaghani said Saturday. Earlier, Rawal tweeted he had informed the party "months in advance" that he would not contest the April-May Lok Sabha polls. "Paresh Rawal ji has conveyed to the party that he will not contest the elections. In the last five years, despite being very busy as an actor, he has given time for his constituency. He will continue to work for the party," Vaghani told reporters here today. In a tweet, Rawal said, "I request media and friends not to speculate about my nomination. I had informed the party months in advance of my decision to not contest LS elections. I, however, remain a loyal member of BJP and a staunch supporter of @narendramodi." Rawal had won from Ahmedabad East in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls by over 3.25 lakh votes. The Congress on its part has routinely alleged that Rawal was not devoting enough time to his constituency amid his film commitments. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Shiv Sena Saturday said L K Advani would remain the "tallest leader" of the BJP irrespective of his poll presence, two days after the party nominated its chief Amit Shah from Gandhinagar, a seat represented by the BJP patriarch. In an editorial in the party mouthpiece "Saamana", the Sena said Shah contesting in place of Advani is politically translated as the 'Bhishmacharya' of Indian being "forced" to retire. "Lal Krishna Advani is known as the 'Bhishmacharya' of Indian politics, but his name does not feature in the list of BJP's candidates for Lok Sabha polls, which is not surprising," the edit said. The Sena said the development underlined that the BJP's Advani era has come to an end. "Advani has been elected from Gujarat's Gandhinagar constituency six times. Now, Amit Shah will be contesting from that seat. This simply means Advani has been forced to retire," the editorial said. Marking a generational shift in the BJP, the party recently announced candidature of Shah, who will be contesting his debut parliamentary election, from Gandhinagar. Advani, 91, had served as Union home minister and deputy prime minister. He won the Gandhinagar seat six times. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the BJP to massive victory in 2014 and Shah was made the party president, Advani was made a member of Margdarshak Mandal (group of mentors). The Sena said, "Advani was one of the founding members of the BJP, who along with former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee steered the rath of the party ahead. "But today, Modi and Shah have taken the place of them (Vajpayee and Advani). An environment has already been created in the party to ensure that seniors do not get any responsibility this time," it stated. The Sena further said Advani has played a "long innings" in and would remain the "tallest leader" of the BJP. The Sena is contesting the next month's Lok Sabha elections in alliance with the BJP. The Sena said it didn't believe that a leader retains his top position only if he continues to be in active The Uddhav Thackeray-led party also attacked the Congress which has said the Gandhinagar seat has been snatched from Advani. "The party (Congress) should not talk about insult to elders. The then prime minister P V Narasimha Rao, who had steered the Congress governments in difficult times, was insulted by the party even after his death," it said. The Sena also referred to the 2013 incident when Rahul Gandhi tore an ordinance (on protecting convicted lawmakers) in the presence of the then prime minister Manmohan Singh. "What happened with Sitaram Kesari (former Congress president who was succeeded by Sonia Gandhi)?....Therefore it does not suit the Congress to talk about respecting elders," the Sena said. Praising Advani, the Sena said he was responsible for expanding the BJP's footprint across the country. "Every shining sun has to set. The BJP could reach the top because of Advani's 'Rath yatra' in Ayodhya in 1990s. The BJP is reaping (dividends) because of Advani's toil," the Sena said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and his Haryana counterpart Manohar Lal Khattar Saturday paid tributes toBhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on the three freedom fighters' death anniversary observed as 'Shaheed Diwas' (Martyr's Day). "My tributes to Shaheed-e-Azam and Shaheed Sukhdev & Rajguru on their Shaheed Diwas. We remember the sacrifice of these brave sons of the soil, who continue to inspire generations, on this special day, which Punjab is observing as Youth Empowerment Day," Amarinder tweeted. Khattar in his tweet wrote, "Homage to the fearless and revolutionary freedom fighters -- Bhagat Singh, Rajguru & Sukhdev who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Their sacrifice for the motherland will continue to inspire generations to come," Khattar wrote in his tweet. Meanwhile, in Ferozepur, on the occasion of 'Shaheed Diwas', Deputy Commissioner Chander Gaind accompanied people to the martyrs' memorial in a special train. The DC interacted with the people, listened to their grievances and directed officials concerned to resolve their problems in a time-bound manner. After reaching Hussainiwala, the Deputy Commissioner reached martyrs' memorial and paid floral tribute to the three freedom fighters who were hanged on March 23, 1931 by the British. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Australia and Sri Lanka have pledged to deepen maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean as an Australian Joint Task Group comprised of Navy, Army and Air Force arrived here on Sunday to take part in a defence engagement programme. HMAS Canberra, the flagship vessel of the Royal Australian Navy, and HMAS Newcastle arrived at the Colombo port on to take part in a defence engagement programme with Sri lanka under the Indo Pacific Endeavour 2019 (IPE -19). This is Australia's largest ever defence engagement with Sri Lanka. The Australian embassy officials here said over 1,000 personnel on four vessels have arrived in Colombo and the eastern port of Trincomalee. Australian and Sri Lankan defence forces will work together on disaster assistance planning, naval manoeuvres and military training activities to improve cooperation, familiarity and interoperability before the ships depart on March 30, sailing for India. Jon Philp, the acting Australian High Commissioner said, Australia has always been an Indian Ocean nation. With increasing interconnectedness and dynamism in our region, Australia is committed to strengthening cooperation with Sri Lanka to ensure a stable, secure, ruled-based order where all countries benefit from continued growth. As Indo-Pacific nations, Australia and Sri Lanka are working together on the continuation of a rules-based regional order, where the Indian Ocean remains free, open and inclusive. Philp said: Australia's vision for the region is characterised by cooperation, respect for rules and norms, transparency, economic sustainability and mutual respect. Sri Lanka is a partner of choice for Australia as we work together to embed a commitment to international law and unimpeded trade flows. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Separatists Saturday said the Centre's decision to ban Jammu and Kashmir Liberatation Front headed by Yasin Malik was "undemocratic" and "political vendetta". Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), an amalgam of separatist groups, called for a general strike on Sunday to protest against the ban imposed by the government on the JKLF. "The Government of India's decision of banning the JKLF for five years is highly authoritarian, autocratic and pure political vendetta," the JRL said in a statement. The JRL urged people of Kashmir to observe a complete shutdown on March 24 against "the arbitrary and undemocratic decision" of the government. "The way Government of India is announcing bans and crackdowns on the organizations associated with the Kashmir struggle, arresting the leadership and slapping them with draconian PSA, killing youth in custody .... exposes their hollow claims of democracy," it said. This is the second organisation in Jammu and Kashmir which has been banned this month. Earlier, the Centre had banned the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir. The Yasin Malik-led JKLF was banned on Friday for a series of violent acts and being in the forefront of separatist activities in the militancy-hit state since 1988, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba had said. Listing out its subversive and violent activities, Gauba said the JKLF spearheaded the separatist ideology in Kashmir Valley and the action was taken following the "zero tolerance" policy of the central government against terrorism. Malik is at present lodged in Kot Balwal jail in Jammu, and is likely to face trial in the three-decade-old case of kidnapping of Rubaya Sayeed and gunning down of four IAF personnel in Srinagar. The JKLF was founded by Pakistani national Amanullah Khan in mid-1970 at Birmingham in the United Kingdom and came into prominence in 1971 when its member hijacked an Indian Airlines plane flying from Srinagar to Jammu. A total of 37 FIRs have been registered by the Jammu and Kashmir Police against JKLF and two cases, including that of murder of IAF personnel, were registered by the CBI. The organisation was also involved in the kidnapping and killing of Ravindra Mhatre, an Indian diplomat posted the UK, in 1984. A week later, India executed Maqbool Bhat, a JKLF activist, who had been sentenced to death. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Yasin Malik-led Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front, which was banned by the government on Friday, was the first terrorist group to raise the slogan of 'azadi' in the state and among its first targets was a BJP leader, a Kashmiri Pandit, in 1989, officials said. The JKLF was responsible for a litany of terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir since 1980s. Raising the slogan of 'azadi', the group targeted Kashmiri Pandits, government employees and ordinary, peace-loving Kashmiri people, a security official said. The JKLF targeted a Kashmiri Pandit for the first time on September 14, 1989 when it killed Pandit Tikalal Taploo, the state BJP vice president, in front of several people, a security official said. The terror group was also involved in the blasts at three government buildings, including the Telegraph Office in Srinagar, on August 1, 1988. JKLF terrorists killed Mohammad Yousuf Halwai, a local leader of the National Conference, in Srinagar on August 17, 1989 and shot dead retired sessions judge N K Ganjoo, who had sentenced JKLF leader Maqbool Butt to death, on October 4, 1989, the official said. The terror group also kidnapped Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of then Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, when she was returning home from a hospital in Srinagar on December 8, 1989. She was released five days later, on December 13, in exchange of the release of five JKLF terrorists from jail. Four IAF officers were killed by the terror outfit on January 25, 1990 when they were waiting at a bus stop along with their family members at Natipora in Srinagar. Twelve family members of the IAF personnel were also injured in the attack. Two of them later died in a hospital, another official said. A chargesheet in this case was filed in Jammu TADA court against Yasin Malik, the prime accused, and six others. Malik tried all methods in the book to escape the trial and moved a petition in 2008 for transfer of the case to Srinagar which was rejected, the official said. Against this order, he approached the Jammu and Kashmir High Court through a writ petition. For one reason or the other, hearing on this writ petition could not be completed till March 2019. The Union Home Ministry and the Jammu and Kashmir administration pursued the matter relentlessly and on March 13, 2019, the high court dismissed Malik's plea to transfer the trial to Srinagar. Trial in this case is expected to resume soon in Jammu, the official said. The JKLF continues to abet stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir, indulge in money laundering, provide financial and logistic support to separatist groups and glorify terrorist activities. The JKLF was declared an unlawful association yesterday by the central government. Crackdown on the JKLF is a sign that the Centre will not tolerate separatist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, while it keeps its doors open for all those peace-loving Kashmir people for dialogue, the official said. Malik is currently in a jail in Jammu. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A candle-light vigil was held here on Saturday to mark the 88th death anniversary of Indian freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev. The programme was organised by the Lahore-based Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation under police security to the participants after the organisation filed an application with the district administration that it feared some 'religious extremists' might sabotage the event in the current Pak-India scenario. Singh was hanged at the age of 23 in Lahore on March 23, 1931, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev. The capital punishment had inspired thousands of people to take up the cause of the freedom movement. The participants hailed the contributions made the the three freedom fighters and called for peace between India and Pakistan. "People like these three revolutionaries are born in centuries. We should fight hatred and promote peace between the two countries,"Imtiaz Rashid Qureshi, Chairman of Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation, said. The participants also observed one-minute silence for the people killed in the New Zealand's Christchurch terror attack. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJD Kandhamal MP Pratyusha Rajeswari Singh joined BJP on Saturday after quitting the party, becoming the third parliamentarian of the regional party to do so ahead of the simultaneous general and assembly elections in Odisha. As BJP is yet to name its candidate for the Lok Sabha seat Singh, who was denied a BJD ticket, could be fielded from her own constituency. The Kandhamal MP's joining BJP has surprised all as Odisha Pradesh Congess Committee had two days ago announced that the formal announcemnent of her joining the party would be made either on Saturday or Sunday. BJD president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had replaced her with Rajya Sabha MP Achyut Samant. Singh had raised her voice in revolt against the decision and had blamed certain party leaders for it. She formally joined BJP at the residence of the BJP legislature party leader K V Singhdeo and in the presence of BJP national vice-president Baijayant Panda, state party president Basant Panda and union minister Dharmendra Pradhan. "I joined BJP on being influenced by the working style of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I would like to serve the people of Nayagarh and work as per the direction of the BJP leadership," Singh told reporters. Before Singh, Nabarangpur BJD MP Balabhadra Majhi had joined the saffron and got a ticket to contest from his parliamentary constituency. He was preceded by Kendrapara BJD MP Baijayant Panda, who has secured a BJP ticket from the seat. Kalahandi MP Arka Keshari Deo too had resigned from BJD but has not joined any political party so far. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Delhi BJP delegation led by party leader Vijender Gupta Saturday met the chief electoral officer and sought action against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his alleged "misuse of Twitter" and violation of the model code of conduct (MCC). In its complaint to the CEO, the BJP alleged that Kejriwal, through social media platforms, was trying to incite religious frenzy and communal tensions. The development comes a day after Gupta hit out at the chief minister for tweeting a picture that depicted a broom, the symbol of Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), chasing a "Hindu swastika". Gupta had said the tweet was a violation of the MCC and aimed at disrupting communal harmony. Kejriwal's tweet, posted late night on March 20, had triggered an uproar, with the Twitterati slamming the chief minister. Following the outrage, the ruling party clarified that the picture showed the Nazi symbol and not a 'swastika'. Referring to Kejriwal retweeting on Saturday a video of an attack on the members of a Muslim family in Gurgaon on Holi, the Delhi BJP claimed that the chief minister was trying to give a religious colour to the incident. Gupta alleged that Kejriwal was trying to incite feelings of two communities even after the district administration of Gurgaon had taken appropriate action in the matter. This is the second complaint filed by the BJP against the AAP this week. Earlier on Tuesday, the BJP had lodged a complaint with the Election Commission against the AAP over the latter's alleged attempts to "create communal tension" by "politicising the cow". The complaint followed a tweet by AAP Lok Sabha poll candidate Raghav Chadha wherein he shared an image of a cow and a calf standing at the doorstep of a house and wrote "door to door campaigning by BJP". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Independent candidate and multi lingual actress Sumalatha received a big boost Saturday with the BJP deciding to support her in Mandya to take on Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamys son Nikhil in the Lok Sabha polls. Sumalatha, widow of actor-turned-politician M H Ambareesh, decided to contest as an independent after being denied a ticket by the Congress, which is now facing trouble in the district over conceding the seat to it's ruling coalition partner JD(S). BJP's Central Election Committee Secretary Jagat Prakash Nadda announced the partys decision to support Sumalatha, as he read out the list of candidates for various Lok Sabha seats across the country in Delhi. With Congress ruling out fielding Sumalatha for Mandya, saying it would go to JD(S), clamour had grown within BJP to induct her and field her as the candidate, as a section believed it would help the saffron party, which doesn't have much presence in the Vokkaliga bastion. However, BJP's state leadership was one in supporting her as an independent so she could continue to bank on the support of disgruntled Congress leaders in Mandya, who are upset about their party's decision to cede the seat to JD(S). Congress and JD(S) have been arch rivals in old Mysuru region, especially Mandya. Both parties forged an alliance to form the government after the 2018 assembly poll results and are fighting the Lok Sabah polls together, according to the coalition arrangement. Sumalatha's late husband Ambareesh had contested and won from Mandya in the past and enjoys popularity among the masses there. She had filed her nomination as an independent on Wednesday and enjoys the support of many within the Kannada film industry, with film stars Darshan and Yash among others by her side during campaigning. Sumalatha had also sought the support of senior BJP leader and former Karnataka Chief Minster S M Krishna, a prominent Vokkaliga leader from Mandya. Despite losing Mandya Lok Sabha seat in the bypolls in November 2018, BJP had made significant inroads, with party candidate Siddaramaiah, a political greenhorn and former civil servant securing 2,44,404 votes, its best performance there. BJP on Saturday also announced that Muniswamy S, a Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike corporator from Kadugudi, would be its candidate for the Kolar Lok Sabha seat. With the announcement for two seats on Saturday, BJP has so far announced candidates for 23 (including Mandya) out of total of 28 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The first list of 21 candidates was announced on Thursday. The five seats for which the party is yet announce its candidates are Koppal, Raichur, Bangalore South, Bangalore Rural and Chikkodi. Congress and JD(S) that have decided to fight the polls in alliance will contest for 20 and eight seats respectively and are yet to formally announce their list of candidates. Karnataka will go to the polls in two phases, 14 constituencies each, on April 18 and 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Welcoming the ban on Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front, BJP Saturday said the reaction of some mainstream politicians in the valley including former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti is "unfortunate". "The Bharatiya Janata Party expresses satisfaction over the swift action taken by the government of India regarding ban on JKLF which was instrumental in fomenting trouble in the state in early eighties," the party said in a statement here. It said the JKLF targeted minority Hindu community in Kashmir during the 1988-90 period of terrorism there. "What was the then Congress government at the Centre expected to do, has been done by the Modi-led government in a positive and effective action. This is the most laudable action since the announcement of ban on communal Jamat-e-Islami which created hatred and violence in the minds of the young Kashmiris against the nation and other communities," it said. The BJP said JEI and JKLF are the main recruitment agencies of the terror network in the state and for the stone-pelting spree. "Their funds collection have always been seen with doubts by the security agencies of the state. Regular FIRs were registered against them but no follow-up action was initiated by the law enforcing agencies under political pressure," it said. Pakistan's complicity too in supplying arms, funds, men and material, besides providing training is not a concealed secret. It alleged that the government ought to have nailed the separatist outfits like JEI and JKLF long ago during their inception 30 years ago but it allowed them to grow and destroy the social fabric in Kashmir. "Filing and pursuing cases against the separatist icon Syed Ali Shah Geelani in older cases of Hawala funds is also a welcome step. The BJP considers the action taken by the government as a big step in right direction," the party said. It said the reactions of the mainstream politicians of the Kashmir-centric parties are "unfortunate and instigating". The BJP said PDP president Mehbooba Mufti as a former chief minister should have not opposed the move to arrest the separatist leadership or banning the Jamat or JKLF. "The recent killing of an 11-year-old Kashmiri boy by the barbaric terrorists in Kashmir is an eye opener as to how the terrorists in Kashmir are opting for ISIS infamous style of massacres of Kashmiris. "The Kashmir-centric leaders instead of raising hue and cry over the action of the government should advise the terror outfits to leave terrorism and separatist actions which are liable to bring death and destruction only in Kashmir," it said. The fight against anti-nationalists and terrorists would be taken to its logical conclusion on all costs, it added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Theresa May said Saturday the fall of the last bastion held by Islamic State (IS) jihadists in Syria marked "a historic milestone", paying tribute to British and coalition forces. "The liberation of the last Daesh-held territory is a historic milestone that would not have been possible without their commitment, professionalism and courage," she said in a statement, using an Arabic acronym for IS. "I commend the tireless work and extraordinary courage of the British forces and our global coalition partners that have fought Daesh in Syria and Iraq." Kurdish-led forces among the 79 international partners pronounced the death of the nearly five-year-old "caliphate" Saturday after flushing out IS jihadists from their last redoubt in Baghouz, eastern Syria. Britain, which has suffered from multiple terrorist attacks in recent years by perpetrators said to have been inspired by IS, has vowed to remain focused on fighting the group and securing the region. "We must not lose sight of the threat Daesh poses and the government remains committed to eradicating their poisonous ideology," May added. "We will continue to do what is necessary to protect the British people and our allies." Britain has committed nearly 1,400 military personnel to the region to support local forces, while the Royal Air Force has conducted more than 1,600 air strikes in Iraq and Syria, according to government figures. Western allies in the US-led coalition are negotiating with Washington on the residual force that will remain after most of the American soldiers are brought home. "We cannot be complacent," British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned Saturday. "Even without territory, Daesh and its poisonous ideology will continue to pose a threat to the people of Iraq and Syria, as well as to the wider world. "The international community must remain firm in its determination to counter and defeat it. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Mukto Assembly seat in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, currently held by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, is set to witness a triangular fight after a gap of 20 years. Since 1999, the MLAs in the constituency, along the India-China border, has been elected without a contest. The Congress has fielded Thupten Kunphen from the seat this time, while the Janata Dal (Secular) nominated 39-year- old Buddhist monk Lama Lobsang Gyatso. Elections to the 60 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh will be held concurrently on April 11. Gyatso, who has been leading movements against mega dam projects in Tawang, will be taking on Khandu, who won unopposed from the seat in 2014 Assembly polls as well 2011 by-election, necessitated by his father and former CM Dorjee Khandu's death in a helicopter crash. Dorjee Khandu, who had contested and won Mukto seat since 1990, had locked horns with Janata Dal candidate Rimchem Dorjee in 1995. Barring the 1995 elections, the seat, dominated by the Monpa community, had been loyal to the Khandu family, which had set the ball rolling for hydroelectric power projects in the district over the years. Gyatso, who has been associated with the Anna Hazare movement against corruption said, "In 2014, too, I had wanted to contest the election, but could not. This year I have planned and decided to contest from the constituency to make people aware about their choices." In April 2016, he was arrested for his opposition to two proposed mega dams in the district. On May 2 the same year, the police opened fire on protesters demanding his release, killing two monks. The 39-year-old monk claimed that the Khandu family has "sold lies" to the people of the district, while promising them upgraded infrastructure. "There has been lot of protests and unrest among the people over dam construction. We have moved several platforms against the projects, which are 'anti-people'. In spite of our legal battle and democratic movements, we have not been able to close the chapter. "I live life like a fugitive, often having to move in disguise to avoid those who have opposed our protests against the dam projects, which have been cleared without abiding by the environmental norms," Gyatso added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president Rahul Gandhi will address three public meetings during his one-day visit to Rajasthan next Tuesday. Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress chief Sachin Pilot said the party would declare the names of the candidates for the Lok Sabha election after Gandhi's visit. The Congress president will be addressing rallies in Suratgarh city in Ganganagar district and Bundi on March 26. He will also hold dialogues with selected booth-level workers in Jaipur, Pilot said. The deputy chief minister said booth-level workers, who were given training by the party in all the 200 assembly constituencies, had been shortlisted for the meeting in Jaipur. Elections in 25 constituencies of Rajasthan will be held in two phases on April 29 and May 6. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A number of civil society organisations and city residents Saturday took out a march to protest the alleged failure of authorities to shut down a waste-to-energy plant in Okhla, saying toxic emissions from it were polluting the area. The protesters said the Okhla plant is situated in a densely-populated part of South Delhi. The incinerator is close to Sukhdev Vihar, Ishwar Nagar, New Friends Colony, Jasola, Sarita Vihar, Haji Colony and Ghaffar Manzil. They said a joint panel of the Central Pollution Control Board and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee had told the Supreme Court in September 2018 that the plants at Okhla, Ghazipur and Narela-Bawana were not complying with the emission standards. Unconcerned about the pollution problem, the operator of the plant was seeking to increase its capacity from 16 megawatts to 20 megawatts, the residents claimed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chief Minister K Palaniswami Saturday lashed out at arch rival DMK,dubbing it a "chameleon" for shifting its stand for power while DMK chief M K Stalin trained his guns on the AIADMK, saying it has forgotten late J Jayalalithaa,who opposed Prime Minister Modi. Palaniswami, spearheading the ruling party's election campaign at Vellore, said DMK was akin to a chameleon which changed its colours quite too often. "DMK has shifted its stand many a times for the sake of power and the word chameleon applies only to it and no other party. The alliance led by it is an opportunistic alliance," he said, adding that the AIADMK was a combine wedded to people's welfare. Though the Centre discontinued subsidy for the Haj pilgrimage (following a Supreme Court directive for gradual withdrawal of subsidy), the AIADMK government continued it providing Rs six crore for it, he said in the city, which has several pockets of Muslims. "Amma's government had always been a fortress in protecting the rights of the minorities," he said. Similarly, when a law on banning triple talaq was introduced in the Rajya Sabha, the AIADMK opposed it and subsequently it was not adopted, he said. Though the Stalin-led party had been part of several regimes at the Centre, including the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance, it did not bring projects beneficial to Tamil Nadu, he claimed. "Congress leader P Chidambaram had been the Finance Minister and still did not allocate necessary funds for the growth of Tamil Nadu," he alleged. "It is a party bereft of any principles. DMK is a family party," he said, adding that the elections would end such family Outlining his government's welfare initiatives, Palaniswami said the recent Global Investors Meet attracted investments over Rs three lakh crore. "Jobs for 10.50 lakh youth have been created through such new investments, which will lead to setting up of new industries," he said. DMK President Stalin, addressing a poll rally at Harur in Dharmapuri district, mocked Palaniswami for invoking the legacies of late leaders M G Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa. "Palaniswami is talking about MGR and Jayalalithaa. What locus standi does he have to talk about them ? he asked. When Modi was named as BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate in 2014, Jayalalithaa had said that "this lady is better than Modi" and that was the stand she took to oppose Narendra Modi, he said. "However, today you have pledged the AIADMK and the government with the BJP," he alleged. AIADMK cannot be redeemed from the "clutches of the BJP," he said. The DMK leader also wanted to know how the AIADMK joined hands with the PMK, which had brought out a booklet criticising Jayalalithaa. "I would like to know how Palaniswami will follow the path of Jayalalithaa,?" he asked. Hitting out at the Chief Minister for accusing DMK of not bringing beneficial projects to Tamil Nadu, despite being part of the governments at the Centre, he said the roads and bridges under the golden quadrilateral highway project (for the State) became a reality because of his party. The golden quadrilateral highway project was an initiative of the NDA regime when late Atal Bihari Vajpayee was Prime Minister and DMK was a partner in the government. Stalin also listed the Chennai Metro Rail and the Rs 1,555 crore Hogenakkal Combined Drinking Water project for Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts. Despite being friendly with the BJP government at the Centre even before forging an alliance with the saffron party, the AIADMK cannot say that it was successful in bringing projects for Tamil Nadu, he claimed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP chief Amit Shah Saturday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on Sam Pitroda's comments questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack, saying the opposition party has "insulted" martyrdom of soldiers and put a question mark on the nation's security. Launching a fresh offensive against the Congress, Shah said the opposition party is known for its "vote bank" and "appeasement" during elections, but Gandhi should answer whether it is above national interest and if such can be done over the grief of families of soldiers killed. Speaking to media, Shah said Congress leader Pitroda's remarks conveyed that the Pulwama terror attack was a "routine" incident carried out by a few people for which Pakistan cannot be blamed. Pitroda, he added, also questioned surgical strikes and air strikes launched by the Indian armed forces. "Does the Congress believe that terror incidents that happen in the country have nothing to do with the Pakistan government or Pakistan army?" Shah asked, seeking Gandhi's response. The BJP chief said the Congress has a habit of playing down such comments of its leaders as their individual opinions, but it never takes any action against them while, many of whom are close to Gandhi, he added. Pitroda, Indian Overseas Congress chief, had told media that one cannot "jump on entire nation" (Pakistan) just because some people from there "came here and attacked". In an apparent reference to the Pulwama terror attack, the Congress leader had said attacks happen all the time and then referred to the Mumbai terror strikes in 2008 when the Congress-led UPA was in power, saying the then government could have sent its planes but that is "not the right approach". Prime Minister Narendra Modi had Friday cited Pitroda's comments to launch an all out attack against the Congress on the issues of terrorism and national security. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By Trend Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Fox News on Thursday that the United States would step up financial and political pressure on Iran's theocratic regime as it seeks to "extend its reach" across the Middle East, Trend reports citing Fox News. "You've seen us now designate [Iran-backed] militias inside of Iraq [as terror groups]," Pompeo told "Fox News at Night" host Shannon Bream. "You've seen us designate senior leaders inside the [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps]. You've seen us designate financial institutions, financial agents engaged in moving illicit money in support of the Houthis [in Yemen], in support of Hamas, in support of Hezbollah. This administration has taken serious efforts across ... a broad range of efforts [by] Iran to extend its reach." Pompeo spoke to Fox News from Jerusalem, where he met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the latter's planned visit to the White House next week. The visit coincided with Trump's support for recognizing Israel's control of the disputed Golan Heights. Last week, the State Department dropped the phrase "Israeli-occupied" from the Golan Heights section, instead calling it "Israeli-controlled." Pompeo's visit is likely to further infuriate Palestinians, who have already severed ties with the US over Trump's decision to move the American embassy to Jerusalem last year. However, the secretary of state expressed optimism that the Trump administration could broker a lasting peace agreement. "This administration has created the conditions which ultimately may well get us to a place where we can achieve the very peace that everyone in the world wants," he said. "A better life for the Palestinian people, a better life and less conflict risk between the Palestinians and the Israelis." Pompeo also discussed the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, where opposition leader Juan Guaido's chief of staff was arrested and detained by disputed President Nicolas Marrero's intelligence forces. "We think we understand how this went down, we think we understand those who were involved," Pompeo said. "We will make sure that the world knows who those people were. ... We will do all that we can to hold the individuals accountable, those who conducted this activity and those who ordered it.." The Congress in Kerala has suggested that party president Rahul Gandhi should contest the Lok Sabha election from the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat, a party bastion in the state. The party argued that Gandhi contesting from two seats in northern and southern regions of the country "will strengthen national unity and integration" and energise the party workers. AICC General Secretary Oommen Chandy Saturday said the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee has requested Gandhi to contest from Wayanad, but he has not yet commented on the proposal. Speaking on the matter, Congress chief spokesperson Ranadeep Surjewala said, "A decision in this regard is yet to be taken by the Congress President. However, we thank Kerala PCC Unit, Congress workers, leaders and people of Kerala for the immense affection, for the respect as also for the desire with which they have urged Gandhi." He said Amethi will remain Gandhi's "Karambhoomi". Gandhi had been contesting from the Amethi seat from 2004. Talking to reporters in Pathanamthitta district, Chandy said there is a demand from party leaders that Gandhi should contest from any of the Lok Sabha seats in South India and "we have requested Gandhi to contest from Wayanad seat". "He has not commented on the request so far. But we expect that there would be a positive response," Chandy said. The party, which is contesting 16 out of 20 Lok Sabha seats in Kerala, has announced the names of 14 candidates but has not declared its candidates from Wayanad and Vadakara. At Kottayam, the leader of opposition in the State Assembly, Ramesh Chennithala, said he had requested Gandhi to contest from Wayanad when the Congress president visited Kerala recently to launch the party's election campaign. He also said the matter was discussed with senior party leaders, including A K Antony. "I once again request Gandhi to contest from Wayanad. Congress president contesting from Lok Sabha seats in South India and North India will strengthen national unity and integration," Chennithala said. Gandhi's candidature from Wayanad will energise the Congress party in South India and thus the party can win majority of seats from the region, the leaders said. The Congress had earlier proposed T Siddique, the Kozhikode District Congress Committee president, for the Wayanad seat but he has backed out. Siddique said he also wants Gandhi to contest from the Wayanad seat. The election convention of the party-led UDF for Wayanad constituency will unanimously urge Gandhi to contest from the seat, he added. The Congress state units in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have also demanded that the party president contest the Lok Sabha elections from their respective states. The Congress earlier this month had announced that Gandhi will contest from his bastion Amethi and Sonia Gandhi from Rae Bareli. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress Saturday petitioned the state Governor over the ruling TRS in Telangana allegedly encouraging defections of its MLAs and said it would also complain to the Lokpal on the matter. "We request you to send the copy of our representation to the President of India and Union Ministry to impose President's rule by invoking Article 356 of the Constitution of India," the memorandum said. Copies of the memorandum were later shared with the media. "...Lok Pal has been constituted. This was an act passed by the UPA-2 government and I was the law minister to draft this... this will be the first complaint to be lodged there," senior Congress leader Veerappa Moily told reporters here. The Congress' ire came in the wake of nine of its MLAs announcing their decision to quit the party and support TRS. Many among them said they would quit as MLAs and seek re-election, if necessary. The party had won 19 seats (out of total 119) in the Assembly elections in December last year and the switch over of MLAs would reduce its strength to 11. Congress also held an all-party meeting here Saturday against the alleged defection of MLAs. On state Congress president N Uttam Kumar Reddy's charge that all the media statements of MLAs switching sides were similar and were drafted in the chief Minister's office, Moily claimed it would be 'evidence' against the Chief Minister (K Chandrasekhar Rao). "Uttam ji has already said that these are all drafted in the CM's office with same type-writing...same language. This will be substantial evidence against the Chief Minister. He can escape today, but he cannot escape tomorrow or thereafter. He will have to suffer for this," he said. "Of course, we have to be blamed for creating a Frankenstein like KCR in Telangana. We have done it for the sake of Telangana.... Not for the sake of KCR," he said, a reference to creation of the state when UPA was in power. The defections of the MLAs were a question of abuse of power, he said, adding that Congress president Rahul Gandhi was also concerned about the matter. "But in a state like Telangana today, or even the BJP party by their operation Lotus... they have institutionalised defections," he said. The government headed by Rao is "heralding anarchy and rule of law has been flouted," he alleged. The senior Congress leader also said his party would like to amend the anti-defection law so that "courts will have teeth, the law will have teeth." Those who commit corruption, abuse institutions and ulimately demolish democratic structures like legislatures would have to be seriously dealt with, he said. The proposed amendment would apply with retrospective effect, also covering the "commission and ommission on the part of the Chief Minister....", he said. Moily said it was the "last warning" to the Chief Minister to act in accordance with the law and the "last request" to the Governor to evoke his powers to stop the "illegal act to sabotage and subvert the Constitution. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress on Saturday accused Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant of violating the Model Code of Conduct by appointing deputy chief ministers. State Congress leader Trajano D'Mello submitted a complaint in this regard to the Election Commission of India. The BJP-led Goa government issued an order on March 20 appointing Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party's Sudin Dhavalikar and Goa Forward Party's Vijai Sardesai as deputy chief ministers. After the death of Manohar Parrikar, Sawant was sworn in as the new chief minister on March 19. The next day, Varsha Naik, under secretary, General Administration, issued the order announcing the appointment of Dhavalikar and Sardesai -- both BJP allies -- as deputy CMs. The state Congress, in its submission to Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, said the government should not have announced any decision which could influence voters after the Code of Conduct came into force. The EC should "immediately set aside" the order appointing deputy chief ministers and take action against the concerned officer and the state government for violation of the Code of Conduct, D'Mello's petition said. Polling will be held in Goa on April 23 for two Lok Sabha seats as well as for by-election to three Assembly seats. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress on Saturday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending best wishes to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the eve of its National Day, alleging that he had been on good terms with the Pakistani establishment even earlier. "Remember Modiji...you embraced (then Pakistani premier) Nawaz Sharif, called him to your inauguration and showed what a change it would be. It was you who shared a birthday bash, gave him gifts. While our PM never visited Pakistan, you gave him gifts and then you are teaching us lessons on Pakistan?" said senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal. Official sources said Friday that Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi's message to Khan came in the midst of severe strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the Pulwama attack and the subsequent air strikes by India on a JeM terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot. Significantly, India Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission here to mark Pakistan's National Day, objecting to invites extended to several separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir for the event. The Congress leader further said that soldiers were being killed everyday. He said the number of security personnel killed in terrorist attack has been rising ever since the Modi dispensation assumed office, citing terrorist strikes in Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Uri and Pulwama. "More than 60 security personnel have been martyred since the Pulwama attack. Everyday our soldiers are martyred. Why is the 'chowkidar' asleep during these terror attacks?" asked Sibal. Sibal also said that what is unfortunate is that the "many leader of thieves are telling us now that they are guards". Forty CRPF jawans were killed in the Pulwama terror attack in February. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) There is convergence of views between India and the US not only on international issues but also in their economic vision as the two countries are natural allies and partners in progress, according to India's envoy here. Noting that the relationship between the two countries has evolved into a truly comprehensive partnership of mutual trust and confidence over the years, Indian Ambassador to the US Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Friday told a business audience that the visits by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Washington in 2016 and 2017 highlighted the huge bipartisan support for this relationship. He received an overwhelming welcome from the US Congress and the business community and during his meeting with President Donald Trump, both leaders spoke about convergence in values, priorities, concerns, and interests, Shringla said in his address to the Business Seminar in the London House in Chicago. Both leaders committed to further expand the trade relationship with focus on job creation and to develop an understanding of each other's priorities. Government of India is committed to building on this relationship with the US. There is a convergence of views of the two countries not only on international issues but also in the economic vision, he said. Shringla said the most recent political level engagement held at the bilateral Commercial Dialogue in Delhi last month also took note that annual bilateral trade in goods and services between the US and India more than doubled over the last decade, from USD 58 billion in 2007 to USD 126 billion in 2017. Both sides resolved to remain engaged and take measures for further enhancement of bilateral trade. The sides agreed to continue to find ways to improve bilateral trade and increase market access in our countries as was agreed upon in the United States and India: Prosperity Through Partnership joint statement of June 2017 and the Commercial Dialogue Joint Statement of October 2017, he said. Asserting that trade and commercial ties between the two countries are strong, he said the two-way trade has grown exponentially and was worth USD 126 billion in goods and services in 2017. In 2018, it is expected to cross USD 140 billion more than 11 per cent increase over 2017. Total bilateral merchandise trade in 2018 was more than USD 87.5 billion. US exports to India in 2018 have grown at nearly 30 per cent to over USD 33 billion while Indian exports have grown at about 12 per cent to over USD 54 billion. This growth has ensured that bilateral trade deficit has reduced by over seven per cent in 2018 alone, he said. Shringla expressed hope that the inclusion of India in the License Exception Strategic Trade Authorization (STA-1) will further give a fillip to the defence trade between the two countries and integrate India into the international supply chains. High level engagement like the 2+2 dialogue between the two countries has once again thrown focus on the importance that both sides attach to the relationship. It has brought into light the shared commitment to a forward-looking vision for the India-US strategic partnership which is putting our relations on an upward trajectory, he said. Noting that people to people relations form the bedrock of the bilateral relations between the two countries, he said the presence of a large and vibrant Indian American community is a bonding factor between the two countries. More than 227,000 Indian students are studying in the US who contribute over USD 6.5 billion to the US education sector each year. US has continued to be among the largest tourist generating market for India during the last few years with over 1.3 million tourists visiting India in 2017, he said. A similar number of Indian nationals also visited the US. India is the sixth largest market for international visitor spending in America. Both countries look forward to further enhancing potential of the sector to support economic growth, create jobs and foster closer relationships between our people, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A has ordered attachment of liquor baron Vijay Mallya's properties in Bengaluru in a case relating to FERA violations. Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Deepak Sherawat issued fresh directions after the Bengaluru Police, through Enforcement Directorate's special public prosecutor N K Matta and advocate Samvedna Verma, sought more time to execute its earlier order in this regard. The court directed the state police to attach the properties by July 10, the next date of hearing. The Bengaluru Police had earlier informed the court that it had identified 159 properties belonging to Mallya, but had not been able to attach any of them. Mallya was declared a proclaimed offender by the court on January 4 last year for evading its summons in the case. The court had on May 8 last year directed the attachment of Mallya's properties in the case through the Bengaluru Police commissioner and sought a report on it. It had declared Mallya a proclaimed offender for evading summons in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FERA) violation case after noting that he had failed to appear despite repeated summonses. It had on April 12, 2017, issued an open-ended non-bailable warrant (NBW) against the liquor baron. Unlike a non-bailable warrant, an 'open-ended NBW' does not carry a time limit for execution. Left Front chairman Biman Bose and leaders of CPI(M)'s frontal organisations Saturday pledged support to the aspiring school teachers who are on relay hunger strike for 24 days demanding recruitment to vacant posts in state-run and state-aided institutes. Bose, a senior CPI(M) leader, claimed that he came to the agitators at their venue here as a citizen and not as the leader of a political party and expressed solidarity with their demands. "I fully agree to their claims that despite qualifying in the School Service Commission (SSC) written test in 2016, the deserving candidates have not been called for interview and there have been irregularities in the recruitment process," he said. The SFI and DYFI, student and youth wings of the CPI(M) respectively, also took out a rally in the city in support of the SSC candidates. SFI general secretary Srijon Bhattacharya said, "It is a matter of regret that the chief minister did not visit the agitating candidates in the past 24 days." One of the agitators Pratap Roy Chowdhury claimed, "Some officials of the Kolkata Police showed us a letter sent by the Army to the police. In the letter, the Army said it apprehended violence if we continue with the protests at this venue. On that basis, the police want us to withdraw the agitation." The Army is the custodian of the Maidan, on a part of which the aspiring teachers are continuing their dharna. There was no indication of any violence in all these 24 days and "we will leave the spot once we get assurance that our demands will be met," Roy Chowdhury said. SFI leader Srijon Bhattacharya said, "We will come to the support of the agitators - if there is any move to forcibly stop the movement, or evict them." While two agitators had to be hospitalised from the relay fast venue on Wednesday, two others Buddhadeb Mondal and Tania Seth, fell sick today. Education Minister Partha Chatterjee Friday met representatives of the aspiring teachers and later announced that a committee was formed to look into their demands. The agitators, on dharna and relay fast since February 28 under the banner of the SSC Yuva-Chhatra Adhikar Manch, were claiming that a large number of teachers' posts were lying vacant but the authorities were not calling them for interview though they have the requisite qualifications. The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the students' wing of the RSS, earlier slammed the authorities alleging precious little was done to end the impasse. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Accusing the Congress of passing off forged and fabricated photocopies as B S Yeddyurappa's diary, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said falsehood and forgeries cannot influence polls as voters are wiser than politicians. The Congress on Friday sought an investigation by the Lokpal into a media report that alleged bribes of Rs 1,800 crore were paid to BJP's top brass by former Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa. The allegations were based on photocopies of BSY's purported diary which were submitted to the tax department. Observing that the forged and fabricated photocopies manufactured and provided by the Congress party were passed off as BSY's diary, Jaitley stressed "falsehood and forgeries can never influence a poll. Just as voters are wiser than politicians, they are also wiser than those who ride on the 'caravan' of falsehood and forgeries." In his blog titled "The Opposition's 'Caravan' Achieves a New Low From Falsehood to Forgery", the minister also accused some media organisations of endorsing falsehoods. The documents, Jaitley said, appear to be a self-serving forgery of the Congress party and its leader. "Faced with odds on a daily basis, the Congress party needed to distract from the self-goal created by Sam Pitroda. He had questioned the Air Force's targeted attack at Balakot. The 'caravan' of falsehood was ready for a 'Rahul Bailout', Jaitley wrote. Pitroda, the Indian Overseas Congress chief, Friday questioned the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack. He also sought more facts from the Modi government on Balakot air strikes last month while referring to international media reports questioning claims that over 300 terrorists were killed in the IAF action. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Novak Djokovic put his Indian Wells disappointment behind him on Friday at the ATP and WTA Miami Open with a ruthless 7-6 (7/2) 6-2 destruction of Australian Bernard Tomic to move into the third round. The Serbian world number one endured a meek exit at the hands of German Philipp Kohlschreiber in the California desert but arrived desperate to land what would be a record seventh title in South Florida. Tomic, the current world No. 81, gave the 31-year-old a few problems yet the Australian struggles to consistently challenge the best players and this was evident once again as Djokovic eased through the gears at Hard Rock Stadium with just one hour and 13 minutes on the clock. "In Indian Wells I wasn't feeling my best," conceded Djokovic who won 81 per cent of points on his first serve and hit 11 aces. "Everyone has nerves coming onto center court regardless of how much experience you have and what your ranking is. You care about it and if you are nervous that means you care. "I commonly feel like that. This was my first time playing at this new stadium, it felt like being indoor a little bit. It's unique. "Now hopefully," he added, "I can build some momentum." On a day that saw Djokovic, top-ranked woman Naomi Osaka and 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams advance, the shock of the day was the departure of Indian Wells Masters winner Dominic Thiem, who was beaten 6-4 6-4 by highly rated Polish 22-year-old Hubert Hurkacz. Elsewhere, there was disappointment for Kei Nishikori. The fifth seed lost to Serbian Dusan Lajovic 2-6 6-2 6-3 but reigning champion John Isner outlasted Italian qualifier Lorenzo Sonego 7-6 (7/2) 7-6, (9/7). Japanese star Osaka had to keep her emotions in check as she opened her campaign by outlasting Yanina Wickmayer 6-0 6-7 (3/7) 6-1. Since winning her second consecutive Grand Slam title in January at the Australian Open, Osaka has failed to go deep in Dubai or Indian Wells. But she appeared in solid form against 141st-ranked Wickmayer, despite losing her way in the middle of an entertaining match at Hard Rock Stadium. The 21 year-old was forced to dig deep after the Belgian, who reached the Miami Open last eight in 2010, forced a third set as Osaka's game badly dipped. - 'Just breathe' - ================== "In the second set, I got really emotional, so in the third, I just tried to shut off my feelings," Osaka said. "I started thinking about winning and not the things I could do in order to win. I had a dip and she started playing really well. "I just had to breathe and regroup," she said. "I find myself doing it often when I am in emotional situations, it's like an energy saver." Next up in the third round is Taiwan's Hsieh Su-Wei, who defeated American Alison Riske 6-2, 7-5. The pair had a rollercoaster clash in the Australian Open at the start of 2019 with Hsieh a set and 4-1 up in Melbourne only to lose a dramatic third-round encounter. Serena Williams survived a second-set lull to beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson 6-3 1-6 6-1 and elder sister Venus also advanced with a 7-6 (7/4) 6-1 win over Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro. There will be a repeat of last week's WTA final in Indian Wells between Bianca Andreescu and Angelique Kerber. Canadian 18-year-old Andreescu, who brilliantly won her maiden WTA title in California, beat American Sofia Kenin 6-3 6-3 to book a third-round meeting with three-time Grand Slam winner Kerber, who saw off Russia's Karolina Muchova 3-6 6-3 6-3. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Karnataka Dalita Sangharsha Samiti (DSS) will support the Congress and other secular parties in the coming Lok Sabha elections, its state chief convenor Mavalli Shankar said Saturday. Addressing reporters at the press club here, he alleged that the BJP-led NDA government had failed to fulfil the promises made during their election campaign in 2014. The promise of job creation for the youth had fallen flat while the agrarian sector was in distress, he said. The number of farmers committing suicide has gone up after Prime Minister Narenda Modis government came to power, Shankar alleged. He said small businessmen had to suffer huge losses due to the demonetisation carried out by the government. "The NDA government should be ousted to protect the Constitution, which is facing a threat under the regime," he said. Democratic values were also being eroded, he said, adding there was an urgent need to protect the Constitution and democracy in the country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By Trend Turkey plans to build a domestic car with electric engine, said Mehmet Gurcan Karakas, head of the consortium for the production of domestic cars, Trend reports referring to the Turkish media. According to Karakas, production of domestic cars with an electric engine will begin in Turkey by 2022, noting that the production of domestic cars is a priority for Turkey. Earlier, Turkish Minister of Industry and Technology Mustafa Varank said that the first prototype of the Turkish domestic car will be ready in 2019. Turkeys "Zorlu Holding" company, together with four other companies which are members of the consortium for development of a domestic Turkish car, had previously presented the first prototype of the vehicle. The prototype was developed together with the "Vestel Elektronik" company and was named "VEO". Earlier, former Turkish Minister of Science, Industry and Technology Faruk Ozlu said that Turkey will invest $3 billion in creating a domestic car. Ozlu said work is currently underway to develop prototypes of 5 different models of the domestic car. The minister also noted that one of the cars will be equipped with an electric engine. Dubai has projected the image of New Zealand premier Jacinda Ardern onto its iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest skyscraper, in thanks for her response to last week's mosque shootings. Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum praised Ardern's "support to the Muslim community" after a white supremacist gunman attacked two mosques on Mar 15, killing 50 people. "Thank you PM @jacindaardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world," he wrote on Twitter. A photo from Dubai's Public Diplomacy Office showed Burj Khalifa lit up with a picture of Ardern in a hijab, warmly embracing a Muslim affected by the tragedy, under the word "peace" in Arabic and English. Ardern has been widely praised for her handling of the tragedy, meeting victims' families and moving quickly to tighten gun laws while calling for global efforts against extremism online. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Election Commission has released the final voters' list in Andhra Pradesh which showed deletion of about 1.41 lakh names, contrary to charges traded by ruling TDP and opposition YSR Congress about largescale removals and bogus entries in recent months. According to the list released by the state Chief Electoral Officer Gopal Krishna Dwivedi, as of March 22 the total number of electorate was 3,91,81,399 comprising 1,93,82,068 male, 1,97,95,423, women and 3,908 transgenders. The state will have a single phase polling on April 11 for the 175-member assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats. A total of 1,41,822 names of voters were deleted from the electoral rolls between January 11 and March 21, the CEO said in a statement. The deletions related to death, shifting, missing cases and repeat entries in the list. The number of voters was 3,69,33,091 when the rolls were first published on January 11 after a special summary revision. Subsequently, 22,48,308 voters were added till March 15, thereby taking the total number to 3,91,81,399, the CEO said. Guntur district accounted for the highest number of deletions (35,603) followed by East Godavari (24,190). The lowest deletions (2,407) was in Visakhapatnam district, according to data released by the CEO. The main opposition YSR Congress had petitioned the EC alleging that there were over 56 lakh bogus or duplicate entries of voters in the rolls and sought their deletion. As a counter, the ruling Telugu Desam Party alleged the YSRC had submitted fake petitions using Form-7 to get names of genuine voters deleted from the list. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu had claimed that names of eight lakh voters had been deleted. "A person from Bihar has been acting as a consultant of the YSRC. Eight lakh TDP votes have been deleted," he had said adding that Form-7 was used for this. "Looks like they will remove even my vote," Naidu had tweeted on March 4. The state government had constituted a Special Investigation Team headed by an Inspector General of Police to probe into the "en masse" submission of form-7 applications and 400 FIRs had been rgistered in various police stations across the state on the issue. Official sources have earlier said over 9.5 lakh applications in form-7 for deletion were received but more than 85 per cent of them were rejected as being fake. Of the remaining applications, 1,41,822 votes have been removed from the rolls. "No vote has been deleted due to fake Form-7 applications and more than 400 FIRs have been lodged against the culprits, the CEO said. Of the total votes deleted, 68,422 were cases of death and 64,083 repeat entries. Another 8,698 shifted to other places while 480 voters were reported missing, said the EC data. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday dubbed as "reprehensible" efforts of regional parties to form a grand alliance with the Congress, saying socialist ideologue Ram Manohar Lohia would be "horrified" as most of these parties claim to be his followers. In a blog to mark the 109th birth anniversary of Lohia, Modi alleged, "Today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr. Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic 'maha-milawat' or adulteration alliances with the same Congress (which Lohia opposed). It is both ironical and reprehensible." The Samajwadi Party,Janata Dal-Secular, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Sharad Yadav's Loktantrik Janata Dal, which will merge with the RJD after the Lok Sabha polls, were some of the parties formed on socialist ideology. On the other hand, Modi said Lohia would be "proud" of the NDA government led by the BJP for following his ideas. "Dr Lohia's thoughts inspire us. He wrote about modernising agriculture and empowering farmers, which the NDA government is effectively doing through efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and more," he said in the blog shared on Twitter. Referring to gender inequality, the prime minister said nothing pained Lohia more than the caste hierarchy and inequality between women and men. "But neck deep in vote bank politics, it was parties that dishonestly claim to be Dr Lohia's followers that opposed the NDA government's move to abolish the inhuman practice of triple talaq," he alleged. Hitting out at the Congress, Modi said whenever Lohia spoke, the Congress "trembled with fear". He said Lohia had once claimed that during the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the Army improved. "These words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored," the PM wrote. Noting that anti-Congressism was Lohia's "heart and soul", Modi said, "Unfortunately, today Lohia would be horrified at the political developments taking place.""Those parties that claim inspiration from Lohia have completely abandoned his principles. They are leaving no opportunity to insult him... Lohia always believed that dynastic was inimical to democracy. He would have been flabbergasted to see his 'followers' think about their own families first instead of the nation," he wrote. Modi alleged that these parties are "experts at grabbing power, looting as much as possible and exploiting others. Poor people, tribals, Dalits, OBCs and women are not safe in their rule because these parties give a free run to criminals and anti-social elements." He said people should realise as as to how can those who betrayed Lohia be expected to serve the nation. "Today they are betraying the principles of Dr Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India," Modi alleged. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former IAS officer Shah Faesal on Saturday said his recently formed party, Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Movement (JKPM), will not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, but asked the people to vote in large numbers for electing the "right candidates". "We have had several meetings of the core group of our party over the past few days and we have decided that we will not contest the Lok Sabha elections this time," Faesal told reporters here. The former IAS officer said the main reason for not contesting the polls was to focus more on the mass contact programme. "The unanimous view was that we are a party still in the stages of infancy and that we should also focus on mass contact programme. This was also our response to those elements who were accusing us of being stooges of the Centre for dividing votes in the current elections," he said. He said it will be communicated in due course of time as to which party or candidates the JKPM cadres will support. Faesal, however, said people should come out in large numbers to participate in the democratic process. "Whether there is boycott or not, elections will be held and people will be elected to Parliament. So, people should take part in the democratic process so that the right candidates are elected," he added. On his party's stand on the challenge to Articles 370 and 35A of the Constitution of India, he said they stood for protection of these provisions, which give special status to Jammu and Kashmir. "These provisions are the link between the Union of India and the state of Jammu and Kashmir and we will strive for their continuation and protection," said Faesal, who came into limelight after becoming the first Kashmiri to top the UPSC civil services exam in 2009 but quit the IAS in January. In response to a question, Faesal said the ban on JKLF would lead to shrinking of democratic space in Kashmir. He condemned the death of a school teacher allegedly in police custody. "The erring police officials should be arrested and tried. Ultimately, we feel that only a judicial inquiry can unravel the truth behind the death of Rizwan (Pandit)," he said. Faesal also condemned the killing of a 12-year-old boy by militants after being taken hostage during an encounter in Hajin area of Bandipora district. "We saw a tragedy yesterday (Friday) in Hajin where a boy, taken hostage, got killed. We condemn the incident," he said, adding no one should violate the human rights of civilians. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 45-year-old farmer allegedly consumed poison here Saturday after the electricity supply to his farm was stopped due to non-payment of bills. Avadhnarayan Bhadoriya, who consumed poison outside the state-run power company's office in Bairgarh area, was hospitalised and out of danger, police said. Police sub-inspector Rajesh Tiwari said Bhadoriya, resident of Behata village in Bhopal district, had allegedly not paid electricity bills for several months and the arrears had reached Rs 70,000. He went to the company's office Saturday afternoon, demanding that the power supply be restored. When company officials said they could not do so until he paid the bills, Bhadoriya threatened to consume poison, the police officer said. The officials informed police. But before the police could reach the spot, he had consumed some poisonous substance. He was rushed to the Government-run Hamidia Hospital where he was stated to be out of danger, the inspector said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Traditional Dogon hunters killed at least 50 people in an attack on a Fulani community village in central Mali on Saturday, security, military and local officials said. "At least 50 Fulani civilians have been killed Saturday in the village of Ogossagou by traditional hunters," a security source told AFP. "They were killed with guns, machetes," he added. Cheick Harouna Sankare, mayor of neighbouring Ouenkoro, confirmed the toll. "There are for the moment about fifty dead in the village. "It is a massacre of Fulani civilians by traditional Dogon hunters". The toll was in danger of rising because they had no of other civilians and the army was not yet on site to help them, he added. A Malian military source also reported the attack. The attack happened at Bankass, near the border with Burkina Faso, where there has been frequent inter-communal violence. Two witnesses questioned separately by AFP said traditional hunters had burned down nearly all the huts in the village. A statement by a local community defence association for the Fulani also reported the attack. Neighbouring villages had been attacked too said the statement, from the Kisal association, which did not give a toll. The conflict was just the latest in a series of clashes between the Dogon and the Fulani -- the English term for Peul -- communities that have left dozens dead in recent months. In January, Dogon hungers were blamed for the killing of 37 people in a Fulani village. The violence is fuelled by accusations of grazing cattle on Dogon land and disputes over access to land and water, but the area is also troubled by jihadist influence. Some communities have accused the herders of being accomplices of jihadist groups. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Thick plumes of smoke billowed into the sky Saturday as a fire ripped through Sudan's old presidential palace in the capital Khartoum, the presidency and an AFP journalist reported. Police cordoned off the streets heading to the palace, built in 1832 on the bank of the Blue Nile, as smoke billowed from the building. The fire broke out due to a short circuit in some of the offices on the second floor of the palace, the presidency said. "Most offices in the old republican palace are not in use... the fire has now been brought under control," Mohamed Saleh, an official at the presidency said in a statement. He did not say whether there were any casualties. The palace was the official seat of the Sudanese government in the decades following the country's independence in 1956. But in recent years, President Omar al-Bashir had shifted to a new palace from where he runs his administration's daily affairs. The 75-year-old leader is facing a wave of angry protests against his iron-fisted rule of three decades, with demonstrators calling on him to step down. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ending days of suspense, Janata Dal (Secular) Saturday said its National President and former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda will contest the Lok Sabha poll from Tumkur. The 85-year-old JD(S) patriarch had earlier expressed doubts about contesting the polls, saying he was thinking about his "usefulness" in the national capital. "Former PM and JDS National president Sri H D Deve Gowda will contest from Tumkur Parliamentary constituency as JD(S)-Congress combined candidate," JD(S) Spokesperson Ramesh Babu said in a statement. Gowda will file his nomination on March 25, he said, adding that JD(S) and Congress leaders will be present on the occasion. Gowda ceded the Hassan seat that he had been representing to his grandson Prajwal Revanna. Amid doubts about Gowda contesting the polls, as he had earlier indicated he would not, there was speculation that he may contest from Bangalore North. Though there was pressure within JD(S) for their party supremo to contest from Bangalore North, it was apprehensive about Congress' complete support there as most party's MLAs there are considered close to Gowda's bete noire Siddaramaiah. It was feared that the MLAs may seek to take revenge for the former Chief Minister's defeat from Chamundeshwari in the 2018 assembly polls. Interestingly, JD(S)' announcement on Gowda's constituency comes on a day when Congress' sitting Member of Parliament from Tumkur S P Muddahanumegowda Saturday said he would file his nomination on Monday as the party candidate. Muddahanumegowda's decision goes against the seat sharing arrangement reached between the Congress and JD(S), according to which Tumkur seat has gone to the regional party. If Muddahanumegowda contests from Tumkur as a rebel, it will add to the Congress-JD(S) coalition worries as the alliance is facing backlash at several places,including Mandya and Hassan, with party workers unhappy with the seat arrangements. In Tumkur, there is simmering discontent within the Congress' local leadership about ceding the seat to JD(S), despite party having a sitting MP there. For the coalition to emerge as a formidable opposition to BJP and win more number of seats, it is crucial for the Congress to transfer its votes to JD(S) and vice-versa, including Mandya. BJP has fielded G S Basavaraj as its candidate from Tumkur. Gowda's other son and Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil is the candidate from the JD(S) bastion of Mandya. The Congress and JD(S), that had bitterly fought against each other ahead of May 2018 assembly polls, decided to join hands to form a coalition government as the election threw up a hung verdict. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Gujarat minister, who had recently switched from the Congress to the BJP, Saturday was in the eye of a storm for tongue-lashing journalists. Jawahar Chavda, former Congress MLA from Manavadar seat and current minister in the Vijay Rupani government, told a public gathering that journalists pestered him with queries on why he switched sides. Addressing a gathering in Rajkot, he said, "Journalists still ask this question as to why he (referring to himself) left Congress to join BJP, why you joined BJP, what was the grievance. I said taara baap (your father, referring to himself) never had any grievance." A video clip of the incident went viral on social media platforms, following which Chavda apologised, but at the same time accused the media of being selective in its reportage. "I apologise. My intention was not to hurt anybody. But my biggest question is you showed only three seconds of my twenty minute speech," Chavda contended. Congress leaders Alpesh Thakor and Hardik Patel criticised Chavda for his utterance against the media. "Journalists ask questions and discuss things that do not concern them directly. If you are praised in the media, then you should also learn to accept negative comments," said Thakor. Patel said Chavda should think about the post he holds before using such words against journalists. "One can be angry with the media, but the word he used is not right. You can discuss grievance with the media one-on-one, but making comments about parents from a public platform is unfortunate. He should have respect for the post of minister. He has anger for media," Patel said. Meanwhile, BJP spokesperson Bharat Pandya said the matter should be laid to rest as Chavda had apologised. "Jawaharbhai has apologised. Such words are not right. He has said his intention was not to hurt anybody. I believe the matter ends here," Pandya said. A four-time MLA from Manavadar, Chavda had on March 8 resigned from the Assembly to join the BJP, after which he was made a cabinet minister in the Vijay Rupani government. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ruing that not much time is allotted for debates and discussions in Parliament, former vice-president Hamid Ansari Saturday expressed worry over its functioning, terming it "inefficient". Speaking at the launch of 'Every Vote Counts' by former chief election commissioner Navin Chawla, Ansari said that while during the 1950s and 1970s Parliament would meet 90 to 100 days a year, today it was meeting 60-65 days. He said the end product of elections is reflected in a set of institutions, which he and many other citizens worried about. "These institutions are elected bodies...headed by Parliament, state assemblies and down the line village panchayats...are they functioning is the question? My answer is that they are functioning very inefficiently," Ansari said. "The time available for Parliament of India to do its assigned work has been reduced by 80-90 per cent. The job of Parliament is to hold the executive accountable...on a daily basis," he said. He said accountability is through questions being asked, discussions on public matter and expressing views on the legislative issues brought by the ruling party. He said the reason for debating legislation, before approving it, is that people from different walks of life discuss what a particular piece of legislation will do in actual practice. "Now, if it is not debated or is passed in a hurry as is being happening quite frequently, then where is the scrutiny? Scrutiny is being done partially and sometimes not at all," Ansari said. He also expressed worry over the loss of the Question Hour in Parliament and said the jury is out if India has the "substance" of a democracy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, Saudi Arabia, has welcomed Guenter Gebhard as its new general manager. The appointment places Gebhard, a hospitality industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience, at the helm of one of Saudi Arabias most prestigious addresses. Gebhard joined Four Seasons in January, and is set to play a key role in overseeing a substantial renovation project at the stylish property in Riyadhs iconic Kingdom Centre. He will also be responsible for driving the hotels ongoing Saudisation efforts, which has been identified as one of the main focus points for the continued success of the property, in addition to exploring avenues for further expansion throughout the EMEA region. Simon Casson, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts president of hotel operations Europe, Middle East and Africa, welcomed the appointment, commenting: Guenters extensive international experience in the luxury hospitality sector makes him an ideal choice to lead Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre. His successful track record in taking ownership of complex pre-opening and refurbishment projects speaks for itself, and I am confident hell be an outstanding addition to the Four Seasons EMEA team. Were delighted to welcome him on board and look forward to working together to further strengthen the Hotels reputation as one of the finest in the kingdom. Prior to joining Four Seasons, German-born Gebhard excelled in a variety of senior leadership positions across the globe with brands including Kempinski, Jumeirah, Marriott, Kerzner, and most recently Mandarin Oriental, who he represented in Turkey as general manager of the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum resort and then for development in the Middle East region from Riyadh. Its both a pleasure and a privilege to commence my journey with Four Seasons at this beautiful property, said Gebhard. The kingdoms hospitality sector is going through a period of rapid change and is poised to achieve tremendous growth, in line with the ambitious roadmap presented by Saudi Vision 2030. This makes it a very exciting time to join the Hotel I look forward to getting to know the team here and contributing to many more successful years ahead for Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre as well expanding the footprint within the Kingdom and region." - TradeArabia News Service SAD leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal Saturday accused Punjab Health Minister Brahm Mohindra of dragging his feet over setting up of a temporary campus for the Rs 925 crore Bathinda AIIMS project. She also alleged that Mohindra had conspired with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Punjab Ekta Party to derail the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) project. "Punjab health minister Brahm Mohindra should explain why he did not do his job and approach the Centre for establishing a temporary campus for AIIMS, Bathinda," questioned the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader. She advised Mohindra to start working for the welfare of the youth and make the temporary AIIMS campus at the Baba Farid University, Faridkot operational immediately. "This is what you have been elected for. You should have gone to Delhi to get the project expedited," the Union food processing industry minister in the Narendra Modi government said in the statement. "Instead of doing this you are becoming a co-conspirator in the move to derail AIIMS, Bathinda solely to ensure I do not get credit for bringing the prestigious medical college and university to this constituency," she said. "The truth of the matter was that the expert committee of PGI had recommended that the temporary campus of AIIMS, Bathinda be established in Faridkot so that the first batch of MBBS for the 2019-20 academic year can be started," she added. "You (Mohindra) as health minister know this. There is no reason for the Congress government to drag its feet on establishing the campus of such a prestigious project which falls in the assembly segment of its finance minister Manpreet Badal," she said further. "It is unfortunate that the FM as well as leaders of other political parties including AAP State Convener Bhagwant Mann and PEP leader Sukhpal Khaira have joined hands to derail AIIMS, Bathinda and deny the youth their due," she alleged. "It was befuddling that Mohindra and his office was not able to comprehend the recommendation of the PGI Expert Committee which clearly stated 'the institutional arrangements' (for Temporary Campus) will have to be worked between Baba Farid University and AIIMS, Bathinda," she said. The SAD leader further claimed that both the Union ministry as well as PGI, Chandigarh which was the mentor institution for AIIMS, Bathinda had approved the temporary campus. "However the Punjab government, which should have been first to act on this recommendation, is trying to obfuscate the issue and is purposely derailing the project," she alleged. "I on my part did my best. I spoke to the Baba Farid Vice Chancellor and Union health minister J P Nadda and even wrote to chief minister Amarinder Singh to start classes of AIIMS, Bathinda at Faridkot," she said. "Everyone responded except for the Punjab government which is still trying to deny the development," she added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court on Saturday expressed concern over illegal mining of natural wealth, including sand, and directed officials to get details of action taken against those allowing it and how many people had been booked. Justices N Kirubakran and S S Sundar gave the directive on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking action against illegal mining in Dindigul district and sought to know the designation of the officials against whom the Goondas Act had been invoked for allegedly conniving with the illegal miners. The court said a report on the action taken should be submitted to it at the next hearing on April 21. The judges wanted to know about the provisions invoked against illegal mining and transporting sand while registering the FIR, and asked how money had been collected as fine for such activity in the last 10 years. They asked if the fine was levied or cost of the minerals was recovered. The judges then directed the government to collect Rs 75 lakh from the officials for allowing illegal mining in unapproved areas in Sitharevu village in Attur area of Dindigul district. Stating that the case pertaining to the district was only the tip of the iceberg, the judges said illegal mining of sand and blue metal had become a regular feature in Tamil Nadu. "It is being said that the officials were making unjust enrichments out of illegal acts either on their own or on instructions. The court is convinced that there was a failure on the part of the officials and with their connivance illegal mining was on," the judges said. The high court said departmental action needed to be taken against the officials. The judges noted that though the court had directed the officials to slap the Goondas Act on the officials, it was not known whether the action was ever taken. They said the report submitted by the advocate commissioner indicated mining of lake sand had been done and about 10,000 cubic metres of gravel had been removed from the prohibited areas. Though the revenue inspector, village administrative office and tehsildar and the deputy tehsildar were supposed to act, they had not done so, the judges said. The photographs submitted by the petitioner also showed that illegal mining had been done on a large scale, they said, posting the matter for further hearing next month. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Following are the top at 5.00 PM: DEL7 POL-MODI-GRAND ALLIANCE Efforts of regional parties to form grand alliance with Cong reprehensible:PM New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday dubbed as "reprehensible" efforts of regional parties to form a grand alliance with the Congress, saying socialist ideologue Ram Manohar Lohia would be "horrified" as most of these parties claim to be his followers. DEL19 PM-KISAN SCHEME PM-Kisan scheme: About 4.74 cr farmers to get second installment from next month New Delhi: About 4.74 crore small and marginal farmers registered under the PM-Kisan scheme before the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for general election came into effect on March 10 will get the second installment of Rs 2,000 each in their bank accounts, a senior government official said Saturday. DEL6 PREZ-LD LOKPAL-OATH Prez administers oath of office to Lokpal chief Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind Saturday administered the oath of office to Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose as the country's first Lokpal. DEL3 POLL-BJP-CANDIDATES BJP releases 2nd list of candidates for LS polls New Delhi: The BJP has released its second list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls containing 36 names, which included 23 nominees for Andhra Pradesh where polling will be held in the first phase on April 11. ELN16 RAHULWB RALLY Modi lies all day, he is chowkidar of the corrupt : Rahul Malda(WB): Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of lying all day and said he is the "chowkidar" of the corrupt and fugitives like Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya. DEL15 CONG-PM-PAK DAY Stop writing love letters: Cong to PM Modi on Pak Day greetings New Delhi: The Congress on Saturday took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending best wishes to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the eve of the neighbouring country's national day. LGD1 DL-COURT-MALLYA Court orders attachment of Mallya's properties New Delhi: A Delhi court has ordered attachment of liquor baron Vijay Mallya's properties in Bengaluru in a case relating to FERA violations. DEL14 SHAH-RAHUL Cong has insulted martyrdom of soldiers, put question mark on national security: Shah New Delhi: BJP chief Amit Shah Saturday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on Sam Pitroda's comments questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack, saying the opposition party has "insulted" martyrdom of soldiers and put a question mark on the nation's security. DEL21 DEF-NAVYCHIEF-LD APPOINTMENT Vice Admiral Karambir Singh appointed as next Navy Chief New Delhi: Vice Admiral Karambir Singh was appointed as the next chief of naval staff, succeeding Admiral Sunil Lanba who retires on May 30, the defence Ministry said Saturday. MDS1 AVI-AIRCRAFT New Delhi-bound flight returns to Chennai after developing technical problem Chennai: A New Delhi-bound SpiceJet flight carrying 182 passengers returned back to the airport here after flying for over an hour, following a technical problem, officials said Saturday. FOREIGN: FGN8 PAK-DAY-INDIA-PREZ It would be 'mistake' for India to view Pakistan with a pre-partition eye: Prez Alvi Islamabad: It would be a "mistake" for India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition and its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness, President Arif Alvi said on Saturday as Islamabad displayed its military might on the National Day. By Sajjad Hussain FGN2 PAK-IMRAN-MODI Imran Khan welcomes PM Modi's greetings on Pakistan National Day Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has welcomed his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi's greetings on the eve of its National Day, saying time has come to begin a "comprehensive dialogue" between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including the "central issue" of Kashmir. FGN10 CHINA-BUS-2NDLD FIRE 26 charred to death in China as tour bus catches fire Beijing: A tour bus with 56 people on board caught fire in China's central Hunan province, killing 26 people and injuring 28 others, officials said Saturday. By K J M Varma FGN4 US-TRUMP-LD NKOREA Trump orders withdrawal of sanctions against N Korea immediately after Treasury imposes them Washington: Donald Trump has abruptly ordered the withdrawal of additional "large-scale" sanctions on North Korea, immediately after the Treasury Department imposed them, with his press secretary saying that the US President "likes" North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and does not think they are necessary. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) British star Idris Elba is in negotiations to join the cast of Fox Studios' fantasy action film "Mouse Guard". Based on David Petersen's comics and graphic novel of the same name, the film will be directed by "Maze Runner" helmer Wes Ball, reported Variety. If finalised, the 46-year-old actor will join actors Andy Serkis and Thomas Brodie-Sangster in the project. The story, set in a medieval world, is about an order of mice who are the sworn protectors of their realm. Their enemies range from predators such as foxes and eagles to other rodents. Serkis, who recently directed and starred in "Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle", will be essaying the villainous blacksmith, Midnight. Brodie-Sangster, best known for playing Jojen Reed on "Game of Thrones", will be portraying Lieam, one of the Mouse Guard's youngest members. The film will be shot using motion capture technology which Serkis has mastered while working on his "Lord of the Rings" and "Planet of the Apes" series. Director Matt Reeves, who worked with Serkis on "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" (2014) and "War for the Planet of the Apes" (2017), is producing the new project along with Ross Richie, Stephen Christy and Joe Hartwick Jr. The project is expected to start production in May. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan Prime Minister has welcomed his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi's greetings on the eve of its National Day, saying time has come to begin a "comprehensive dialogue" between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including the "central issue" of Kashmir. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Khan, in a tweet, welcomed Modi's message and said the time has come to begin a comprehensive dialogue between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including Kashmir. "I welcome PM Modi's message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people," Khan tweeted on Friday. has made it clear to Pakistan that cross-border terror attacks and talks cannot go hand in hand. last year called off a planned meeting of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi on the sidelines of the annual session of the UN General Assembly in New York after blaming Pakistan-based entities for killing of three special police officers in Kashmir. Earlier, Khan also tweeted Modi's message. "Received msg from PM Modi: 'I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence'," Khan said. Modi's message to Khan came in the midst of severe strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the Pulwama attack and the subsequent air strikes by India on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot. Significantly, India Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission here to mark Pakistan's National Day, objecting to invites extended to several separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir for the event. The official sources in New Delhi said the prime minister sends a customary message on National Days to other heads of state and government and added that his message to Khan highlighted the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group JeM killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Every year on March 23, Pakistan celebrates its National Day commemorating the Lahore Resolution passed on March 23, 1940 and the adoption of the first constitution of Pakistan on March 23, 1956. Indian-origin homes are at the centre of over 140 million pounds worth of gold jewellery stolen in the UK over the past five years, a freedom of information request revealed on Saturday. So-called "Asian gold", bought as wedding gifts and known to be stored in homes of South Asian origin families as it is passed down generations, led to nearly 28,000 thefts since 2013, the BBC investigation found. Out of 23 of 45 police forces from across Britain that provided figures on these thefts, Greater London had the highest value stolen 115.6 million pounds, followed by 9.6 million pounds in Greater Manchester. Sanjay Kumar, who specialises in selling Asian gold in the dominantly Indian-origin suburb of Southall in west London said he recognised the cultural significance behind gold jewellery and always advised his customers to think carefully about how they store their gold and to insure it. "People are told by their parents and grandparents 'you must buy gold it's an investment, it's lucky. It's something that we as Asians do, so people are following the tradition and the culture," he said. Police forces investigating cases of theft said that in some of the burglaries victims owned large amounts of jewellery, but that was not always the case. In Cheshire, police set up a dedicated team to work with members of the community after a series of Asian gold related burglaries. Aaron Duggan, head of crime at Cheshire Police, said that one of the challenges his officers face is that gold can be disposed of easily. "At second-hand outlets, certainly around Asian jewellery, questions should be asked - 'who is this person in front of me selling this gold?' The irony is it's often harder in this country to sell scrap metal than it is second-hand jewellery," he said. Scotland Yard regularly issues special advice around Diwali, Navratri and other major Indian festivals for the British Asian community to be extra vigilant. "The festival period tends to see a spike in this type of crime largely due to more jewellery being worn as communities travel across London to different venues whether temples or to other people's homes," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement. During the course of 2017-18, the Met Police recorded 3,300 such high-value thefts, worth around 21.2 million pounds. Kent Police with 89 thefts worth 1.6 million pounds and Greater Manchester Police with 238 thefts worth 1.5 million pounds were among the other key hotspots. "Gold will continue to be highly desired by criminals due to the speed and anonymity with which it can be exchanged for large sums of cash," Metropolitan Police Detective Constable Lisa Keeley said during last year's Diwali appeal. "These pieces of gold and jewellery are not just valuable possessions, they are also of great sentimental value, and if stolen, would have a huge impact on owners. Our proactive measures to tackle these crimes has seen reductions in offences, however there is more to be done," she said. Operation Nugget is the Met Police's dedicated operation to tackle gold thieves, which seeks to drive down the number of such offences through a series of initiatives. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Inter-American Development Bank said Friday its annual meeting would exit China after the United States led objections to Beijing's refusal to grant a visa to the Venezuelan representative backed by Washington. The bank, which provides development funding for Latin America and in which Washington holds 30 percent of voting power, said it would no longer gather in the southwestern city of Chengdu from March 28 to 31 in what would have been its first annual meeting in China. The Washington-based institution said its board would decide within 30 days where to hold the meeting instead. The decision marks a two-front victory for the United States which is trying to oust Venezuela's leftist President Nicolas Maduro and to reduce Chinese influence in Latin America. A State Department official said that the United States objected to China holding the meeting so long as it did not issue a visa to Ricardo Hausmann, who is considered the Venezuelan representative to the bank by Juan Guaido, the self-declared interim president recognized by Washington and major Latin American and European states. US allies backed the US position, with more than 80 percent of IDB shareholders voting Friday to move the meeting out of China, the official said. "Allowing a country to prevent the seating of a legitimate delegation of a multilateral organization would have set a precedent contrary to a century of established diplomatic norms," the official said on condition of anonymity. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang in a statement Saturday said China believes that the annual IDB meeting "should focus on financial cooperation rather than ... discussing sensitive political issues." Geng said China had made lengthy preparations as the host country, but the venue is being changed as "some parties were manipulating the Venezuelan issue, and forcibly allowing representatives of Guaido to attend the IDB meeting." Vice President Mike Pence who raised the issue in an opinion piece in The Miami herald, accused China of "propping up a corrupt dictator." It would mark "the first time in the bank's history that a host nation has refused to seat a member," he wrote. China is the main creditor of Venezuela, granting more than $60 billion over the past decade to Maduro's cash-strapped government, which pays back in oil. The Inter-American Development Bank's president, Colombian Luis Alberto Moreno, has voiced willingness to work with Guaido. Hausmann was the IDB's chief economist from 1994 to 2000 and served as minister of planning under Venezuelan president Carlos Andres Perez, implementing a package of economic reforms. Maduro's predecessor Hugo Chavez led a coup against Perez in 1992, citing the reforms. Chavez was later elected president and has branded himself as a champion of the poor. Venezuela, which helped found the IDB in 1959, in May was declared in default of the bank which said it would not grant any further loans. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Iranian human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh has been sentenced to an extra 10 years in jail on top of the five-year term she is already serving, her husband said Tuesday. Sotoudeh is an award-winning rights activist who was arrested last June and told she had been found guilty in absentia of espionage charges and sentenced to five years. The new 10-year sentence was the longest of seven different verdicts totalling 33 years bundled together in a case and communicated to Sotoudeh in prison, according to her husband Reza Khandan. "But only the longest sentence will be served, which is 'encouraging corruption and debauchery and providing the means'," he told AFP by telephone. He said Sotoudeh had also been sentenced to a total of 148 lashes for appearing in court without the hijab Islamic head covering and for another offence. She had been found guilty of "colluding against the system, propaganda against the system... disrupting public order" and several other counts. On Monday, a judge at Tehran's Revolutionary Court said she had been sentenced in her latest conviction to five years for colluding against the system and two years for insulting Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. But Khandan said to the best of his knowledge his wife had not been charged with insulting the leader. The United Nations' top expert on human rights in Iran, Javaid Rehman, said the reported conviction was "a crystal-clear illustration of an increasingly severe state response". "There is an increasing concern that the civil space for human rights lawyers and defenders is being reduced," he told journalists in Geneva. Amnesty International condemned the latest case against Sotoudeh as an "outrageous injustice" and called for her immediate and unconditional release. "Nasrin Sotoudeh has dedicated her life to defending women's rights and speaking out against the death penalty -- it is utterly outrageous that Iran's authorities are punishing her for her human rights work," it said. Before her arrest, Sotoudeh, 55, had taken on the cases of several women arrested for appearing in public without headscarves in protest at the mandatory dress code in force in Iran. Sotoudeh won the European Parliament's prestigious Sakharov Prize in 2012 for her work on high-profile cases, including those of convicts on death row for offences committed as minors. She spent three years in prison after representing dissidents arrested during mass protests in 2009 against the disputed re-election of ultra-conservative president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi made a formal request to parliament on Saturday to fire the governor of Niniveh province where 100 people were killed in a ferry capsize. Most of those killed in Thursday's sinking on the Tigris River were women and children headed out of Iraq's second city Mosul for a Mother's Day picnic on the Kurds' Nowruz New Year holiday. In a letter to the speaker of parliament, Abdel Mahdi said there was clear evidence of "negligence and concrete failings" that merited a vote on dismissing governor Nawfel Akoub. "An ongoing investigation has found evidence of the misuse of public funds and the fraudulent abuse of his office," the prime minister alleged. Akoub has already been subjected to the anger of victims' relatives and their supporters over alleged corruption and cronyism. When he visited the scene of the tragedy on Friday stones were thrown at his convoy by protesters demonstrating against perceived corruption and neglect. There is widespread anger in Mosul at the slow pace of reconstruction since the city's recapture from the Islamic State group in 2017 by Iraqi troops backed by a US-led coalition. The city still bears the scars of three years of iron-fisted rule by the jihadists who made it their "caliphate's" de facto capital. Survivors of Thursday's disaster were treated in hospitals heavily damaged by the months-long military campaign against IS. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An American envoy to the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group hailed the demise of the extremist group's self-declared "caliphate" in eastern Syria on Saturday as a "critical milestone". "This critical milestone in the fight against ISIS delivers a crushing strategic blow and underscores the unwavering commitment of our local partners and the global coalition to defeat ISIS," William Roebuck said, using an alternative acronym for IS. But the coalition envoy warned that the fight against the jihadists was not yet over. "While we have completed the territorial defeat of ISIS in Syria and Iraq, we still have much work to do to achieve an enduring defeat of ISIS," he said at a main staging base for the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces whose Kurdish-led fighters defeated IS. "The campaign is not over. ISIS... remains a significant threat," Roebuck said at the Omar oil field in eastern Syria. IS's loss on Saturday of its last redoubt in the village of Baghouz signalled the demise of the "caliphate" that the extremist group declared over a large swathe of Syria and neighbouring Iraq in 2014. But the jihadists still retain a presence in eastern Syria's vast desert and have claimed deadly attacks in areas controlled by US-backed forces. "We will continue to support the coalition's operations in Syria to ensure... this enduring defeat," Roebuck said. President Donald Trump and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo "have been forceful in saying that we will do what is necessary in the region, including here in Syria, and across the globe to ensure the defeat of this threat. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By Nikhat Fatima, TwoCircles.net Rehana Khan, the daredevil stuntwoman, from Chhattisgarh was in Hyderabad last month February 2019, and we met up with her to know about her journey in a field that is still predominantly a male bastion. Like most people, Rehana Khans first experience with the Maut ka Kuan (Well of Death) was during her childhood when she saw bikers in her village. She remembers the thunderous applause from the audience. She was so impressed by the daredevil stunts that she decided she would also do the same. Support TwoCircles Rehana learnt how to ride a motorcycle when she lived with her parents in Etah, Uttar Pradesh. Her father, being a mechanic, used to have several bikes of his customers at his garage. And it didnt take long for Rehana to learn to ride one. But all that stopped when she got married after her 12th and went to live with her husband in Chhattisgarh. She settled down in a married life trying to be the dutiful daughter-in-law and the wife that she was expected to be. And after one year of marriage, the couple had a son. And Rehanas dream which preoccupied her most of the time had turned into a passion she wanted to pursue at any cost. Thankfully, her husband, Riyaz Khan decided to support her. But Rehans parents and in-laws were not sure about the idea of her riding a bike and that too as a stuntwoman. Even women taking up jobs in the public sphere was unheard of in their household. But Riyaz did not want his wife to give up her dream. So he allowed her to ride his bike, a Bajaj Pulsar, now and then. Slowly, the people of the town began noticing the lady biker. Riyaz had also managed to convince his parents. And together they convinced Rehanas parents also to allow her to pursue her passion. But finding an instructor was the next big task. Riyaz used his contacts in all the places and finally, they found one through a friend. And the next challenge was to convince the Ustad (teacher) that Rehana has the mettle and all else that takes to be a stuntwoman. Once the teacher saw her riding the motorcycle confidently and with ease, he agreed. In a conversation with TwoCircles.net, she said, I was a bit nervous. I was thinking if I dont do well, the ustad may give up on mebut I gave it my best. She was a committed student and it took her just one month to master the art. The main thing needed to perform these stunts is to remain totally focused all the time while maintaining the speed of the bike and having absolute control over the bike. It is important to be unafraid of heights and also not feel dizzy as they have to race across the silo drome in circular motions. I used to ride in circles, round and round on the ground first to overcome the feeling of dizziness before riding on the silodrome. The bikes used by these stunt persons do not have brakes which helps them maintain the speed without feeling the need to apply the brakes. Applying brakes would mean we fall off the wall. she further explained. For my first show, I was nervous despite the training. I was feeling what if something untoward happened and I lost my balance? What if I fall? What if I fail? But somehow I steeled myself and raced my bike. And after the show, I was a changed person. I was a success. I was jubilant, she said, laughing, as she recalled her very first show in a village in Uttar Pradesh. In the beginning, the other bikers who were all young men felt uneasy seeing a woman around them. But later they got used to it. And now we are all comfortable with each other, Rehana explained. My husband travels with me everywhere. He is my manager, my friend and my biggest support. Rehana Khan, now 26, began when she was just 21 years old. And now after 5 years of biking, she has given successful performances in Jharkhand, Kolkata, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh and now Telangana. This was the first time she was visiting Hyderabad to perform in the Maut ka Kuan at the annual consumer exhibition popularly called as Numaish started by the Nizam in 1938. Rehana was the crowd puller for the Gudiya Maruti circus who runs these stunt shows. This was the first time that a lady biker has been hired by the circus. Having Rehana in their show has proved to be profitable for the Gudiya circus proprietors. The show began with Rehana riding her Yamaha motorcycle on the vertical walls of the silodrome in full throttle waving her hands in the air, letting go of the handles and sitting cross-legged on the bike. The crowd went wild yelling and clapping in excitement. But it doesnt stop there. Following Rehana, six other bikers start vrooming on the vertical walls, waving their hands and doing all kinds of stunts that make the crowds gasp. And then Rehana comes in one of the 4 cars that join the bikers. As the cars speed, she leans out of the window with her arms and a leg out even as she is lying on the car. Looking at her calm smiling face, one can see that she is completely at ease performing all these dare-devil stunts. As the bikes and cars speed in circular motions on the wall of death in a wooden structure which rattles heavily making the spectators feel as if it is going to collapse any moment which actually adds to the crowds excitement. And after a good 10 minutes, all the stunt persons come down on the ground from the rattling wooden structure of the wall of death. And the audience heaves a sigh of relief and happy that it was a show worth watching. After the show, young girls and children came up to meet Rehana, to shake hands with her and even take a snap with her. Rehana, dressed in a tee-shirt, jeans and boots and a hijab is all smiles. And many of the girls who come up to meet her are burkha clad. The girls in the burkha are particularly impressed with me maybe because I wear a hijab and they can relate to me in some way, she said. More than the monetary benefit in this profession, it is the admiration I get from the spectators I enjoy. Even though in the sound of our motorcycles we cannot hear the claps of the audience, we know they are clapping and cheering us. And it makes us happy. She told TwoCircles.net About her experience in Hyderabad, she says, Hyderabad is a nice place. I took the time to go out and see the Charminar. I would like to come again the next year to perform here. Leaving behind her 7-year-old son is not easy for her especially when she is away for months. Her in-laws take care of the child when her parents are away. Rehana has no concrete plans for the future. She says, she will keep on riding and doing the daredevil stunts as long as she can. And to all the girls who are in awe of her, says, If you want to do something, you just need to have a Junoon (passion) for it. It all depends on how badly you want to do it. If your passion is strong enough then you will find a way. Be strong; dont ever feel you are inferior. It would be a "mistake" for India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition and its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness, President Arif Alvi said on Saturday as Islamabad displayed its military might on the National Day. Alvi was addressing the annual Pakistan Day Parade here to commemorate the resolution passed by the All-India Muslim League on the day in 1940 in Lahore demanding a separate country for Muslims. The National Day featured a joint parade by the army, air force and navy, display of military hardware, along with open and veiled anti-India rhetoric. "It was the duty and responsibility of Pakistan to respond to the Indian aggression... We responded with better strategy," Alvi said, apparently referring to the downing of an Indian Air Force jet. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group JeM killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation against a JeM training camp in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Alvi said India's actions jeopardised peace in the region. "It would a mistake on part of India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition. Doing so would be very dangerous for the region's stability. "India will have to accept Pakistan as a reality, and it must come to the conclusion that dialogue is the only way to resolve issues," Alvi said at the ceremony where Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was the guest of honour. He said Pakistan wants peaceful co-existence but its "desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness". "We are a peaceful nation, but are not oblivious to our defence, and the same has been proved in the recent demonstration of Pakistan's defence capability," he said, adding that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and respects integrity and sovereignty of other states. Alvi said the country is safe and moving on the path of progress and development after effectively combating the menace of terrorism. The president also inspected the parade before his address. Prime Minister Imran Khan, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mehmood Hayat, army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, naval chief Admiral Zafar Mehmood Abbasi and Chief of Air Staff Mujahid Anwar Khan attended the ceremony. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Contingents, paratroopers and fighter jets from Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, China, Bahrain and Sri Lanka also took part in the parade. Shahper and Buraq drones were also displayed in the parade along with different missile systems including Nasr, Babur, Shaheen 1, Ghuri, Shaheen 111 among others, and defence systems as well as tanks. The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were also offered in mosques after morning prayers for the country's progress and prosperity. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The police Saturday arresed an ivory smuggler carrying 13 tusks at a place near Bangladesh border in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. Suspicious movement by the accused who was on a motorbike was spotted by policemen during a routine check in Dalu area. Police said they stopped the motorbike, searched his bags and found the tusks inside them. The 33-year-old arrested man is a resident of Gasuapara area in South Garo Hills district. A man from Assam was supposed to receive the tusks but he might have fled, police said. (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 Saturday paid tributes to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on their 88th martyrdom anniversary. Saluting the revolutionaries, the Governor observed that the sacrifices made by them in India's freedom struggle will always inspire the youth to serve selflessly towards the better interest of the nation. Their sacrifice and courage will forever be remembered by generations to come, he added. The trio were hanged to death in Lahore Jail (Pakistan) on March 23, 1931. Meanwhile, various political and social organisations held separate functions to pay homage to the martyrs. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Veteran politician and chief patron Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) Bhim Singh will contest the Lok Sabha elections from Jammu parliamentary constituency which is going to polls in the first phase on April 11. The decision to field 77-year-old leader from Jammu parliamentary constituency was taken at a meeting of senior party leaders after days of hectic deliberations, a spokesman of the JKNPP said. He said Singh would file nomination papers before the returning officer at Jammu on Monday, the last day for the filing of nomination papers for the constituency. The spokesman said the candidate for UdhampurDoda parliamentary constituency, which is going to polls in the second phase on April 18, will be announced on Monday. Earlier on Wednesday, Singh had announced that his party would contest all the six Lok Sabha seats in the state. Born on August 17, 1941, Singh had founded the JKNPP in 1982 after parting ways with the Congress. He nominated his nephew, Harsh Dev Singh, as party chairman in 2012 after holding the post for over 30 years. He had served as an MLA from 1977 to 1987, MLC from 2003 to 2008 and had also won a bypoll from Udhampur parliamentary constituency in 1988. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ending the suspense over its candidate in Pathanamthitta,where the Sabarimala shrine is located, BJP Saturday announced the name of K Surendran, state general secretary who will try his luck from the constituency. The BJP, while announcing its first list of 184 candidates on Thursday, including 13 from Kerala, had left out only Pathanamthitta constituency. In the list released by the party Saturday, Surendran's name was included. The saffron party, which is seeking to open its account in Lok Sabha from Kerala in the April 23 polls, is contesting 14 of the 20 seats in the state, leaving five to its allies -- BDJS (Bharat Dharma Jana Sena) and one to Kerala Congress led by P C Thomas. The party, which had spearheaded the agitation over the CPI(M) led LDF government's decision to implement the Supreme Court's verdict, allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine of Lord Ayyappa late last year, is pinning hopes on Pathanamithitta constituency. BJP state President P S Sreedharan Pillai, state General secretaries K Surendran and M T Ramesh and Union minister Alphons Kannanthanam were all keen on the Pathanamthitta seat. However, Kannanthanam has been fielded in Ernakulam. Surendran was in the forefront of the agitation over the entry of women in menstrual age into Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala and had been incarcerated for nearly a month over the protest. Surendran told reporters that BJP would face the polls unitedly and expressed confidence of a massive win in Pathnamthitta. He described the Congress party's proposed move to field Rahul Gandhi from Wayanad as a "historical blunder". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Miscreants stoned the house of Kannada film actor Darshan and damaged his car Saturday, three days after he started canvassing support for actress Sumalatha, who is contesting from Mandya Lok Sabha constituency against Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's son. Sumalatha, the widow of popular Kannada film actor and three-time Mandya MP Ambareesh,is contesting as an independent against former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda's grandson and Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy. Flanked by an enormous crowd, she filed her nominations on March 20, which was followed by an emotional speech. Darshan, who too hails from Mandya, is among the many film actors and prominent persons from the Kannada film industry, including Yash and 'Rockline' Venkatesh, who openly came out in support of Sumalatha. According to police, the actor was in Hyderabad for shooting when the incident occurred in the early hours Saturday. Reacting to the incident, Sumalatha said "Such intimidating tactics will not work. Nobody can dare threaten Darshan and Yash. Our workers need not have to get provoked by such incidents. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Voicing his displeasure over disgruntlement in the Congress over seat sharing with his party JD(S) for the Lok Sabha polls in Karnataka, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Saturday said it was the grand old party's duty to address it. The Chief Minister said he would neither plead in front of anyone nor allow his self esteem to be hit. "...it is something that is not related to my party. They have given 8 seats to my party. We have to field candidates in eight seats, we will do so," Kumaraswamy said to a question about Congress' rebel candidate in Tumkur. Former prime minister and Kumaraswamy's father H D Deve Gowda is contesting from Tumkur. Speaking to reporters here, he said, "The issue is not related to me, it is related to Congress leaders, ask them." "I have already said in Mandya that I will not plead before anyone and will not allow my self esteem to be hit. We also have strength, our party workers are there. So I will not discuss about it, I will do my duty. Let Congress people do their duty," he added. Kumaraswamy's sharp reaction came days after he accused some Congress leaders of "backstabbing". He had on Thursday said he would not plead for support with those Congress leaders who are against his son Nikhil Kumaraswamy's candidature as the coalition candidate from Mandya, with several of them supporting independent Sumalatha Ambareesh, despite the grand old party denying her the ticket. Congress' sitting MP from Tumkur S P Muddahanumegowda Saturday said he would file his nomination on Monday as the party candidate, going against the seat sharing arrangement reached between the coalition parties, according to which the seat has gone to JD(S). Muddahanumegowda's decision follows the simmering discontent within Congress in Tumkur about ceding the seat to JD(S), despite the party having a sitting MP there. Muddahanumegowda will be the rebel candidate against former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, as JD(S) Saturday announced he would be the coalition candidate from Tumkur. The development's has added to Congress-JD(S) coalition's worries as the alliance is facing a backlash at several places, including Tumkur, Mandya and Hassan, with party workers unhappy with the seat arrangement. For the coalition to emerge as a formidable opposition to the BJP and win more number of seats, it is crucial for the Congress to transfer its votes to JD(S) and vice-versa. According to the seat sharing arrangement, out of the total of 28 seats, Congress will contest 20 and JD(S) eight. The Congress and JD(S), that had bitterly fought each other ahead of May 2018 assembly polls, decided to join hands to form a coalition government as the election threw up a hung verdict. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has said that Sri Lanka preserved its sovereignty by not agreeing to set up an office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in the country even as main Tamil party TNA called for allowing foreign judges and prosecutors to probe the alleged war crimes. "We told that an office was not required, the High Commissioner is welcome to visit the country if she so wished. We have preserved Sri Lanka's sovereignty and the world has come to accept it," Wickremesinghe said at a public gathering on Friday. The Tamil and international rights groups had demanded that UN Human Rights High Commissioner's office be set up here in order to keep monitoring Sri Lanka's human rights accountability process in terms of the UN rights resolutions adopted since 2012. They cited Sri Lanka's snail paced action and its lack of political will to deliver justice to the victims of three-decade long civil war with the LTTE. Wickremesinghe said former president Mahinda Rajapaksa and the former UN chief Ban ki Moon in May 2009 had agreed to subject Sri Lanka to an accountability process for violation of international humanitarian law. Sri Lanka's non-compliance later had forced the UN rights body resolutions. The prime minister said that no soldier will be taken before any court for trial outside. "We will take action against anyone breaking the law," he said. On Thursday, the UN Human Rights Council gave Colombo two more years to set up a credible investigation into the country's brutal civil war and fulfil its commitments in the 2015 resolution. The 2015 resolution had called for an international investigation in a hybrid court on alleged human rights violations blamed on both the government troops and the LTTE during the final phase of the conflict which ended in 2009 with the killing of rebel Tamil Tiger chief Velupillai Prabhakaran. Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Thilak Marapana told the UNHRC in Geneva on Thursday that the island's constitution does not permit foreign judges to function in the country. Marapana said Sri Lanka should be encouraged to and assisted in finding innovative local mechanism with international best practices. Tamil and rights groups have called for establishing an office of the UN rights commissioner locally to monitor Sri Lanka's implementation process. Marapana said there was no justification for setting up of such an office as Sri Lanka had already taken many measures for transitional justice. The main Tamil party in parliament debunked Marapana's assertion and said they would press for an international tribunal even taking the issue to the international criminal court. They said that Tamils cannot trust the Sri Lankan state to deliver justice when they are a party to the conflict. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will address a rally in northeast parliamentary constituency on Tuesday as part of the BJP's 'Vijay Sankalp' rallies for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. BJP president Amit Shah will launch the party's poll campaign after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced with a rally in Agra in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, and its top leaders will hold rallies in every constituency across the country till Tuesday. Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Sushma Swaraj, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Piyush Goyal, J P Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan, Nirmala Sitharaman, Smriti Irani and other party leaders are scheduled to address are scheduled to address rallies on Sunday and Tuesday. Delhi BJP General Secretary Rajesh Bhatia said the party's Delhi wing will organise two Jan Sabhas on March 24 and five jan sabhas on March 26 as part of the election campaign. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will address the rally in northeast parliamentary constituency on Tuesday and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will address the Jan Sabha in New Delhi Parliamentary Constituency. BJP's National general secretary Dr Anil Jain will address party workers of northwest parliamentary constituency, Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will address workers in east Delhi, Lok Sabha Elections co-incharge Jai Bhan Paiwaya in Chandni Chowk, national spokesperson Sambit Patra in south Delhi and MP and national spokesperson Meenakshi Lekhi will address party workers of west Delhi. Meanwhile, on Saturday, a 'Chikitsak Sammelan' (Doctors Conclave) was organised by the Delhi BJP where the office-bearers interacted with several doctors. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said that if anybody has taken care of the health of 130 crore people of the country, it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "If anybody falls ill and requires medical treatment, Modi government will provide free treatment of up to Rs 5 lakh. By obstructing the implementation of Aayushman Bharat and 10 per cent reservation to the forward castes, the Kejriwal Government has betrayed the people," he said. He said just like 'the Prime Minister who is the chowkidaar of the country, doctors are also the chowkidaars of Delhi". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) French President Emmanuel Macron said Saturday that the fall of the so-called "caliphate" run by Islamic State jihadists in Syria has removed a source of potential terror attacks against France. "A significant threat to our country" has been "eliminated", Macron said on Twitter, adding that "the step taken today is immense." "But the threat remains and the fight against terrorist groups must continue," he said. France has suffered a wave of jihadist-inspired terror attacks that have killed 250 people since 2015, when gunmen massacred 12 people at the offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris. The next day a man took hostages at a Jewish supermarket on the edge of Paris, killing four before being shot and killed by police. "If you attack the caliphate, we will attack you," the attacker, Amedy Coulibaly, said in a posthumous video. Macron's comments came as Prime Minister Edouard Philippe and other officials gathered in Trebes, southern France, to mark the first anniversary of a shooting spree by a man claiming allegiance to the Islamic State. Four people were killed by gunman Radouane Lakdim, including a police officer who volunteered to take the place of a hostage. Kurdish-led forces pronounced the death of the nearly five-year-old "caliphate" Saturday after flushing out Islamic State group jihadists from their last redoubt in Baghouz, eastern Syria. France has said it would maintain its participation in the coalition in case the fighters attempt to regroup, despite plans by the United States to withdraw the bulk of its troops from Syria. The Western allies in the US-led coalition fighting IS remnants are negotiating with Washington on the residual force that will remain after most of the American soldiers are brought home. France has contributed around 1,200 soldiers to the coalition backing the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). "We all understand that we have to continue the anti-terrorist fight" even after Baghouz eventually falls, a French defence ministry source told AFP earlier this month. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Yesterday, the United States imposed sanctions against two transport companies in China in connection with the situation around the DPRK. Washington considers these companies helped Pyongyang to transport cargo by sea, bypassing the sanctions imposed on the DPRK. At the same time, there was information that US President Donald Trump insists that China increase purchases of American goods two to three times compared with Beijings previous proposal for additional imports by $ 1.2 trillion over six years. China-US trade consultations continue. The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday that "negotiators for the US and China have scheduled a new round of high-level trade talks in Beijing and Washington US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin plan to fly to Beijing next week," and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will travel to Washington in the following week. As of press time, neither Beijing or Washington has commented on the report. As Global Times writes in the article Rationality continues to guide China-US trade talks, China and the US have maintained close contact since the seventh round of talks in February and have made substantial progress in settling remaining difference. Divergences still exist, but both sides believe that none are irresolvable. China and the US are both positive about resolving differences fairly and equally. Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump said that there would either be "a good deal or it's not going to be a deal." This is obviously also the bottom line of China. Both China and the US have a strong willingness to overcome key divergences so as to prevent the worst case scenario from becoming a reality. According to foreign media reports, the main difference between the two sides now is the mechanism to ensure that the final agreement can be implemented and on the question of how to cancel the tariffs. Theoretically speaking, as long as both parties have enough sincerity to reach an agreement, those issues should not be stumbling blocks. It has been four weeks since the seventh round of talks. Regardless of confusing information, the trend that Beijing and Washington are meeting each other halfway to resolve issues has been further consolidated. Notwithstanding the uncertainties, no reasons or motives have been observed yet from either side to neglect the existing results. An old Chinese saying goes, "No discord, no concord." Another says, "A good gain takes long pain." After all the twists and turns of the past year, the two countries have achieved new understandings not only of each other's will and strength, but also a recognition for mutual benefit and fairness. The Madras High Court Saturday came to the rescue of a 40-year-old secondary grade teacher whose services were terminated 22 years ago, directing the Tamil Nadu government to reinstate her. The state government, which could not justify her termination before the Supreme Court, informed the high court that she would soon be reinstated. Sudha, a city resident, completed her schooling in Chennai and pursued a diploma course in teacher training in Kerala. In 1992, the Tamil Nadu government invited applications from eligible candidates for appointment of secondary grade teachers. Candidates from other states were also allowed to apply. Sudha was shortlisted and appointed as a teacher in Kadayampatti Government School, Pudukottai, on July 24, 1995. However, she found out that the school department had passed an order on May 29, 1997, terminating her services on the ground that her diploma had not been evaluated as it was obtained from another state. Sudha then moved the high court. In 2009, the court dismissed the plea as it was not properly represented by the petitioner and was based on a submission by the state that she had stopped attending school. Sudha moved an appeal against the dismissal order. The court allowed her appeal and directed the Tamil Nadu government to reinstate her. Challenging the appeal, the state moved the Supreme Court, which dismissed the plea on April 6, 2018. However, the school department did not reinstate Sudha, following which she filed a contempt petition in the high court. She prayed for a direction to the Tamil Nadu government to implement the apex court's order, reinstate her and punish the concerned authorities for wilful disobedience of the court order. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An umbrella body of minority community members Saturday listed a set of 14 demands for political parties for the April-May Lok Sabha polls. The Minority Coordination Committee said the demands include amendment to the National Commission for Minorities Act, setting up of a ministry of minority affairs in all states, establishment of an equal opportunities commission, special budget provisions for minorities and enacting laws to prevent communal violence. The Minority Coordination Committee convener Mujahid Nafees told reporters the charter of demands would be conveyed to all parties and candidates contesting from the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat. "These are issues related to the development and existence of minorities in the country. Our demands are being made for the first time in an organised manner. We hope parties will implement them after coming to power," Nafees said. The committee also wants to set up a judicial inquiry commission to probe police encounters, banning of training and exhibition of arms by certain organisations, protection of Wakf properties, strengthening the Minority Finance and Development Corporation as well as enacting laws to ensure political participation. Highlighting the need to amend the National Commission for Minorities Act 1992, Nafees alleged it was an "ineffective legislation" with powers that are not clearly marked. He said an equal opportunities commission needs to be set up so that the country's Muslims can tide over the rampant discrimination they are subject to. "The representation of minorities in politics is less as per their population and they are a victims of political untouchability in the country. Therefore, laws should be made to ensure political representation of the deprived classes. We have made this demand as well," Nafees said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The MNS on Saturday threatened to stall the release of a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi claiming it violated the model code of conduct for the April-May Lok Sabha polls. 'PM Narendra Modi', directed by Omung Kumar with Vivek Oberoi in the lead, is set for a theatrical release on April 5. The film also stars Boman Irani, Manoj Joshi, Zarina Wahab and Prashant Narayanan. In a statement, MNS general secretary Shalini Thackeray said party chief Raj Thackeray had last year stated that the BJP was sponsoring movies like 'Toilet-Ek Prem Katha' and 'Padman' to promote its government's schemes. "Not even a year has passed and the BJP has added another feather to its cap," she said, referring to the biopic on the PM. Stating that it should not be allowed to release, Thackeray also slammed the makers of the movie for giving credit for lyrics to Javed Akhtar and Sameer. Both the noted Bollywood lyricists have publicly claimed that they have not contributed in any way to the Modi biopic. "These people want to falsely spread a message that noted people from society and known names from the film industry have contributed to the movie on the life of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The MNS Chitrapat Karmachari Sena condemns this cheap tactic to promote the film," Thackeray, and Amey Khopkar, the president of Maharashtra Navnirman Chitrapat Karmachari Sena, said in a joint message. Thackeray and Khopkar said political parties are expected to adhere to the model code of conduct in place for Lok Sabha elections. They further claimed the MNS will stop the release of the film "in its own style". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP MP Saturday claimed neither Prime Minister nor Minister knew economics, as they dub as the fifth largest economy despite it being the third largest one. In an apparent backhanded praise, Swamy said he does not understand why the prime minister says is the world's fifth largest economy when, as per scientifically acceptable procedures for GDP calculations, the Indian economy is the third largest after the USA and "I don't know why our prime minister keeps saying the fifth largest... because he doesn't know economics, and the minister also doesn't know any economics," said Swamy, who has often courted controversies through his comments. Swamy, who holds a PhD in economics from and also taught the subject there, has often been critical of Jaitley. Noting that calculations based on exchange rates make the Indian economy fifth in the world, he said exchange rates keep on changing and owing to a devalued Rupee, is the seventh largest economy at present, on the basis of such calculations. The correct way to calculate the size of economy is the purchase power parity, on the basis of which India is at number three, Swamy said. Addressing a gathering here on "Engaging People's Republic of China", he said India and were respectively the first and second most prosperous countries in the world before invasions by colonial forces. "We should not fluctuate from patronising them (China) like Nehru did (on one side) to the other side of hostility; we should find a common ground," he said. Jawaharlal Nehru had refused a permanent seat offered to India in the Security Council in 1950, said Swamy, adding the country's first prime minister who was in a "sarvodaya mood" had contended that it should go to Maintaining that the two large neighbours, which share between them one-third of the world's population, have the longest history between two neighbours of living in peace, he said, "We need to go back to the ancient and historic relationship between the two countries." Observing that the two neighbours have a great potential of working together, Chinese consul general in Kolkata Zha Liyon said China has the second largest economy while India has the fifth or the third largest, depending on calculations and statistics. Inviting Indian businesses to invest in trade, commerce and industries in the neighbouring Yunnan province, Liyon said there are opportunities in manufacturing, and tourism sectors. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of lying all day and said he is the "chowkidar" of the corrupt and fugitives like Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya. Congress is fighting to keep the country united and the upcoming Lok Sabha elections will be a fight between ideologies of the Congress and the BJP-RSS, he said at a rally here kicking off his party's campaign in West Bengal. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi keeps on lying all day. Wherever he goes he lies ... The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the state will be between ideologies. On one hand you have the Congress party which is fighting to keep the country united and on another hand the BJP-RSS-Narendra Modi who want to divide the country on religious and caste lines," Gandhi said while addressing a rally here. Accusing Modi of being the "chowkidar" of "corrupt and fugitive" businessmen Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya, he said Narendra Modi had gifted Anil Ambani the Rafale deal and had looted Rs 30,000 crore of public money. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The BJP leadership has decided to carpet-bomb West Bengal with rallies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP national president Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during all the seven phases of polling. Modi will address his first election rally in the city's Brigade Parade ground on April 3, a senior state BJP leader said. "Modi ji will address at least one rally in each phase in the state. Amit Shah ji will also address one rally per phase and Yogiji will address eight rallies in all," the leader said. West Bengal is one of the priority states for the BJP in the country. The saffron party, which bagged two Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2014 elections, is now targeting 23 of the state's 42 constituencies. The Lok Sabha election in the state is a "semi-final match" for the BJP before it goes out for an all-out battle to oust the Mamata Banerjee-headed Trinamool Congress government in the 2021 assembly polls, party leaders said. A senior state BJP leader said apart from Odisha, West Bengal is the focus for the party in eastern India. The saffron party is hoping to overcome its deficit in the number of seats from states of North India, where it has reached a saturation point, by winning more seats from states like West Bengal and Odisha, the leader said. Lok Sabha elections will be held in West Bengal in seven phases from April 11 to May 19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) More than 630 civilians were killed in the six-month operation against the Islamic State group that culminated in its defeat by US-backed Syrian forces on Saturday, a monitor said. The civilian dead -- among them relatives of IS fighters -- included 209 children and 157 women, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group said. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces launched their offensive against the jihadists' last bastions in the Euphrates Valley on September 10, taking town after town before finally announcing victory in the village of Baghouz on Saturday. The Britain-based Observatory said the operation had cost the lives of 730 SDF fighters while 1,600 jihadists were also killed. The SDF does not usually divulge its losses for months. The Observatory says its figures are drawn from a network of sources inside Syria. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Special counsel has submitted a report on his nearly two-year inquiry into allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 US elections and the Trump campaign's collusion with them, following which the opposition Democratic Party demanded that its content be made public. US Attorney General William Barr, to whom the report was delivered on Friday, told Congressional leaders that he may submit to them its summary "as soon as this weekend". Reacting to the development, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said, "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the special counsel's report." President Donald Trump's counsel Jay Sekulow and personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, in a joint statement, said, "We're pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the attorney general pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps." During his 22 months of investigation, Mueller, a former FBI director, criminally charged three companies and 34 individuals, of which seven pleaded guilty and one was convicted. He had also posed question to President Trump which were responded to in writing. Trump has repeatedly claimed that he was a victim of "witch hunt", while asserting that there was no collusion between his campaign and the Russians. The probe report, which justice department officials described as comprehensive, does not recommend any further indictment. However, the Democratic leadership, which alleged that Russian interference helped Trump in the 2016 polls, on Friday demanded that the entire report be made public. "Now that Special Counsel Mueller has submitted his report to the attorney general, it is imperative for Mr Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement. "Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any sneak preview of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public," they said. "The special counsel's investigation focused on questions that go to the integrity of our democracy itself: whether foreign powers corruptly interfered in our elections, and whether unlawful means were used to hinder that investigation. The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency," the two top Democratic leader said. Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna demanded that the Mueller investigation report be made public. "There is no room here for selective editing or political favours. The entire Mueller report must be made fully available to the American people. That's transparency... and that's justice," he said. While CNN described the completion of the investigation an end of the one of the most dramatic chapters in Trump's presidency, Fox News said this marks the end of "the politically explosive probe and the beginning of a new battle" over its contents and implications. The New York Times reported, "While Mr Mueller is not recommending any new charges be filed, lawmakers conducting their own inquiries will still be able to refer criminal charges to the Justice Department, for instance, if a committee finds that a witness lied under oath. Special counsel Robert Mueller has submitted the much-awaited probe report on alleged collusion between Russia and US President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign, ending an investigation that has cast a shadow over the Trump presidency for nearly two years. A justice department official said that Mueller's report did not recommend any further indictments. During his 22 months of investigation, Mueller, a former FBI director, criminally charged three companies and 34 individuals, of which seven pleaded guilty and one was convicted. He had also posed question to President Trump which were responded to in writing. US Attorney General William Barr, to whom the report was delivered on Friday, told Congressional leaders that he may submit to them its summary "as soon as this weekend". Trump has repeatedly claimed that he was a victim of "witch hunt", while asserting that there was no collusion between his campaign and the Russians. Reacting to the development, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said, "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the special counsel's report." President Trump's counsel Jay Sekulow and personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, in a joint statement, said, "We're pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the attorney general pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps." The probe report, which justice department officials described as comprehensive, does not recommend any further indictment. However, the Democratic leadership, which alleged that Russian interference helped Trump in the 2016 polls, on Friday demanded that the entire report be made public. "Now that Special Counsel Mueller has submitted his report to the attorney general, it is imperative for Mr Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement. "Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any sneak preview of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public," they said. "The special counsel's investigation focused on questions that go to the integrity of our democracy itself: whether foreign powers corruptly interfered in our elections, and whether unlawful means were used to hinder that investigation. The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency," the two top Democratic leader said. Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna demanded that the Mueller investigation report be made public. "There is no room here for selective editing or political favours. The entire Mueller report must be made fully available to the American people. That's transparency... and that's justice," he said. While CNN described the completion of the investigation an end of the one of the most dramatic chapters in Trump's presidency, Fox said this marks the end of "the politically explosive probe and the beginning of a new battle" over its contents and implications. The New York Times reported, "While Mr Mueller is not recommending any new charges be filed, lawmakers conducting their own inquiries will still be able to refer criminal charges to the Justice Department, for instance, if a committee finds that a witness lied under oath. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Conference, which has sealed an alliance with the Congress in Jammu and Kashmir, Saturday announced setting up of two election campaign committees for the twin Lok Sabha seats of Jammu and Udhampur. The party also set up a four-member campaign coordination committee for the province. NC is supporting Congress candidates Vikramadatiya Singh for Udhampur and Raman Bhalla for Jammu Lok Sabha seats. In return, the Congress is not fielding any candidate against NC president Farooq Abdullah who is seeking re-election from Srinagar parliamentary constituency. As per the agreement, the other three seats - Anantnag, Baramulla and Ladakh - will witness a "friendly contest" between the two parties to defeat their opponents. Provincial president Devender Singh Rana constituted the election campaign committees for Jammu and Udhampur lok sabha constituencies besides a campaign coordination committee, a spokesman of the NC said. He said former minister and party state secretary Surjeet Singh Slathia would head the 32-member campaign committee for Udhampur parliamentary constituency while senior leader and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra will head the 45-member panel for Jammu constituency. The four-member campaign coordination committee would be headed by state secretary Rattan Lal Gupta, the spokesman said. "All the district and block committees will function as the election committees for the parliamentary elections," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) On Thursday, US President Donald Trump tweeted that it is time to recognize Israels sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Following by, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo commented on the presidential tweet as an already made decision. On Friday, the Foreign Ministry of the Russian Federation regarded such statements as another manifestation of Washingtons disregard for the international law, UN Security Council resolutions, the principle of land for peace, developed during the Madrid Peace Conference co-sponsored by Russia and the United States in the framework of the Arab Peace Initiative. Smolensk Square considers that such statements of Washington are following the line of the current US administration trying to revise the generally accepted international legal framework for resolving the situation in the Middle East. Russia's position on this issue remains unchanged: the Golan Heights are the Syrian territory, which Israel occupied as a result of the 1967 war, and 14 years later illegally annexed. In 1981, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution according to which the decision of Israel to establish its laws, jurisdiction and administration in the Golan Heights is invalid and has no international legal force. The Russian Foreign Ministry thinks that an important step on the path of stabilization would be the return of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force to the Golan Heights that became possible due to Russia's efforts. Last year, the Russian military police began to patrol the Bravo line, which allowed international observers to freely perform the tasks on disengagement assigned to them. As Deutsche Welle writes in the article Russia, Iran and Syria slam Trump's Golan Heights comments, a host of countries on Friday criticized President Donald Trump's announcement that the United States intends to unilaterally recognize Israeli sovereignty over the occupied-Golan Heights. Syrias Foreign Ministry said the move showed "the blind bias of the United States to the Zionist entity," in reference to Israel. Damascus added that Trump's statement won't change "the fact that Golan was and will remain Arab and Syrian." Iran's Foreign Ministry said the "illegal and unacceptable recognition does not change the fact that it belongs to Syria." The European Union said that "in line with international law, (the EU) does not recognize Israel's sovereignty over the territories occupied by Israel since June 1967, including the Golan Heights and does not consider them to be part of Israel's territory." The German Foreign Ministry said the government rejects unilateral moves and national borders can only change through peaceful negotiations. In Turkey, where the Organization of the Islamic Conference was gathering, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned that Trump's announcement "brings the region to the edge of a new crisis." The US announcement over the Golan Heights is likely to stoke regional tensions over the contested territory, which Syria demands be returned in exchange for any future peace deal with Israel. Iranian forces backing the Assad regime, its Lebanese ally Hezbollah and the Syrian Army have positions close to the Israel-Syria frontier. This is viewed as a threat by Israel, which has carried out scores of airstrikes to push back against Iranian entrenchment in Syria. US recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights would also set a precedent that territory can be captured in war in violation of international law. UN Security Council Resolutions 242 and 497, both supported by the United States, provide the legal basis stating that Israeli occupation of Syrian territory is in violation of international law. The Syrian civil war has severely weakened the authority of the state, giving Israel an opportunity to exert its claims over the Golan Heights. It also comes as Israelis right-wing government has a friend in the Trump administration which already recognized Jerusalem as Israels capital . Analysts say Trumps announcement may give a boost to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of April 9 elections and distract attention away from multiple corruption investigations swirling around him. A New Delhi-bound SpiceJet flight carrying 182 passengers returned back to the airport here after flying for over an hour, following a technical problem, officials said Saturday. According to the airline's website, flight SG104 had taken off at 7.00 am and the pilot decided to return due to the technical problems and landed the plane at 8.10 am. The aircraft later resumed its journey at 10.00 am after the issue was sorted out and safely landed at 1.10 pm in New Delhi, the airline added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A notorious criminal was detained under the Public Safety Act in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, official said Saturday. A dossier of his detention was prepared by district police office Rajouri and submitted to the district magistrate, he said. The DM ordered his detention under public safety and a team from the Rajouri police station implemented the detention order Friday, the official said. The accused, Haroon Rashid, has been lodged in Kot Bhalwal jail Jammu, he said. The official said he was involved in seven criminal cases and booked in a number of cases registered in the Rajouri police station. Senior Superintendent of Police Yougal Manhas said Jammu and Kashmir Police is taking strict action against all those involved in unlawful activities. He said activities of some more persons is under surveillance and action against them will soon be taken. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The election flying squad Saturday seized foreign currencies amounting to Rs 43.44 lakh from a motorcyclist here, and Rs 1.83 crore from a van in Salem, official sources said. During a vehicle-check in the area of Singanallur assembly constituency in Coimbatore, the squad stopped the two-wheeler of Jayaraman, and found in it 35,000 USD (Rs 24.29 lakh), Singapore dollars 22,000 (Rs 11.31 lakh) and 10,000 Euros (Rs 7.84 lakh), they said. The currencies were handed over to the income tax authorities, and Jayaraman, working in a private firm and on his way to airport, produced some documents which were being verified, the sources said. Meanwhile in Salem, a flying squad seized Rs 1.83 crore from a van that was to be deposited in an ATM. Since there were no relevant documents produced by the occupants of the vehicle, the money was handed over to the sub-treasury, the sources said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan army Saturday resorted to unprovoked firing on forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, a defence spokesman said. The small arms firing from across the border in Poonch sector started at around 5.30 pm, he added. The Indian Army retaliated befittingly, the spokesman said. He said there was no report of any casualty on the Indian side in the latest ceasefire violation by Pakistan. Official sources said Pakistani troops targeted Shahpur and Kerni areas, forcing people to take shelter inside their homes. The skirmishes between the two sides witnessed a spurt after India's preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot on February 26 following the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Five persons - four civilians and a soldier - were killed and several others injured as Pakistan army targeted dozens of villages in over 125 incidents of ceasefire violations along the LoC in the state, especially in the twin districts of Poonch and Rajouri, since then. According to official sources, Pakistan army suffered heavy casualties and a number of its posts were destroyed in the retaliation action by the Indian Army over the past couple of weeks. Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, Commander of Udhampur-based northern command, had on Friday visited forward posts in Rajouri and Reasi sectors to interact with soldiers and review the operational preparedness. He was accompanied by White Knight Corps Commander Lt Gen Paramjit Singh. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP dissidents angry over denial of party tickets to them continued to gherao the state party headquarters and kept its main gate locked for the second day on Saturday. This forced the party to induct Kandhamal MP Pratyusha Rajeswar Singh at the residence of senior BJP leader K V Singhdeo during the day. The state will witness simultaneous election to 21 Lok Sabha and 147 state assembly seats in four phases from April 11. The BJP has so far announced candidates for 15 of the state's 21 Lok Sabha seats and 121 of 147 assembly seat. Protests were in the beginning held by supporters of Amiya Dash who has been denied a BJP ticket from Ekamra-Bhubaneswar Assembly seat. BJP has fielded Babu Singh, who recently joined the saffron party after quitting BJD, from the constituency. Though the supporters of Dash withdrew their agitation on Friday night, they resumed the protest before the state BJP office on Saturday. They were later joined by dissident BJP leaders from Aul, Rajnagar, Digapandi and some other places. All the dissidents alleged that the party has promoted turncoats as candidates foe the coming polls ignoring the original workers who have been working for BJP for a long time. Similar reports of dissidents locking the BJP district offices were received from Keonjhar, Bhadrak among other places. There were voices of protest against BJP state president Basant Kumar Panda, who has been announced the party's candidate from Kalahandi Lok Sabha seat where senior leader Pradipta Nayak was denied ticket. Nayak has been fielded to contest from Bhawanipatna assembly seat. The supporters of BJP leader Subhas Chouhan also burnt an effigy of Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan after the party named Suresh Pujari as its candidate from Bargarh Lok Sabha seat. Chouhan, who had lost the Lok Sabha polls by a margin of 11,183 votes, was a strong contender for the Bargarh seat. There was tension at the party office at Laxmipur in Koraput district as BJP workers burnt effigies of Pradhan and Koraput BJP president Jayram Pangi and ransacked it after the party gave ticket to Kumud Saunta. The dissidents also threatened mass resignation, alleging that the party had ignored six aspirants and given ticket to someone who joined the party only two months ago. At Bhadrak, BJP leader Dinabandhu Patis supporters locked up the party's office there against the allotting of party ticket to Madhabananda Mallick in Basudevpur Assembly seat. There were also protests against the candidature of Dola Gobind Nayak and Alekh Jena for Aul and Rajanagar Assembly seats in Kendrapara district. Reacting to the growing dissidence, BJP spokesman Golak Mohapatra said "This shows BJP is gaining popularity. Never before there was such craze for BJP tickets." State BJP president Basant Kumar Panda said "We are a democratic party. Therefore, people raise their voices. We will resolve the issue through discussion." The Congress too faced protests by partymen over allotment of tickets to new comers and the district party office was locked up like that of BJP in at least one place. There was report of clash between two groups of the party at Nilgiri in Balasore district where the supporters of Chittaranjan Sadangi have been opposing candidature of Manoja Manjari Devi, a member of the royal family there. Dissidents in Jharsuguda assembly segment locked up the district Congress office protesting against nomination of Mahendra Nayak there. The Jharsuguda seat was won in 2014 by Congress candidate Naba Kishore Das, who has switched over to the BJD. Dissidence activities were also reported from Sundergarh and Chitrakonda assembly segments. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) About 4.74 crore small and marginal farmers registered under the before the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for general election came into effect on March 10 will get the second installment of Rs 2,000 each in their bank accounts, a senior government official said Saturday. Of these 4.74 crore beneficiaries, 2.74 crore farmers have so far received the first installment and the rest will be covered by month-end, he said. The Election Commission of (ECI) has allowed the Union Agriculture Ministry to transfer the first and second tranche of the payment to all those beneficiaries registered under the scheme before March 10, the official added. Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the Centre announced the Rs 75,000-crore Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme under which Rs 6,000 per year would be disbursed in three instalments to around 12 crore farmers who hold cultivable land up to 2 hectares. In the budget, the NDA government allocated a sum of Rs 20,000 crore, to transfer Rs 2,000 each to farmers in the first installment by March-end, for the ongoing fiscal under the scheme. The scheme was formally launched at national level by Prime Minister on February 24 at in by transferring the first instalment to 1.01 crore farmers, amounting Rs 2,021 crore. "We were hoping to have the data of 12 crore farmers from across the country. But the data of 4.74 crore farmers has come before the MCC was enforced," the official told The government has already released the first installment of Rs 2,000 each to 2.74 crore beneficiaries and the remaining will be covered before this month-end, he said. With regard to the payment of second tranche to begin from April 1, the official said the ECI has allowed to make the payment to all those beneficiaries registered before the MCC kicked in. "We can go ahead and make the payment of first installment to the rest of the people whose names are on the portal. We can go ahead and make the payment for the second installment as well," the official said. In Uttar Pradesh, the first installment has been released to around one crore farmers so far and the Centre has received data of additional 66 lakh farmers. The official further said that and are amongst the top beneficiary states as more than 80 per cent of the farmers registered under the scheme have received the first installment. While, some states including West Bengal, and have yet not submitted the farmers' data and therefore no money has been transferred. The official also mentioned that no fresh data has come from states after the MCC came into effect. Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said Saturday that last month's Pulwama terror attack took place because there was an intelligence failure, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi was silent on this aspect. Singh, whose name was announced earlier in the day as the Congress's candidate from Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency, also said he had not sought to question the air strikes carried out by the Indian Air Force on terror camps in Pakistan. "I did not ask for clarification. I said questions are being raised in international media, so the government should come up with evidence (of the air strikes' impact)," he told reporters. "There was intelligence input from IG (Inspector General of Police) of Kashmir six days before Pulwama attack. A large convoy 2,500 CRPF personnel was moving...(terror group) Jaish-e-Mohammed had already issued a warning. "But a vehicle coming from the wrong side attacked and 44 (CRPF) jawans were martyred. This was a gross intelligence failure. But no statement came from the prime minister (Modi) and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. Who will answer these questions?" Singh said. On March 2, Singh had said, "I am not questioning the recent IAF action against Pakistan-based terrorist camps. But the pictures of any incident in open space can be accessed through satellite technology. So we should also give evidence, the way the United States government presented evidence before the world on (the killing of) Osama bin Laden." His remarks triggered a controversy. Forty CRPF personnel were killed in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday took potshots at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Main Bhi Chowkidar" campaign, calling him a gatekeeper who stood guard for the wealth of the rich. Modi and his partymen have launched the 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' (I too am a watchman) campaign to blunt the Opposition's, especially the Congress's, 'chowkidar chor hai (watchman is a thief) slogan. "What type of people employ chowkidars outside their homes? Have you seen a chowkidar deployed at the gates of a common man's house?" Gandhi asked the gathering here. Addressing his maiden rally in Bihar upon the announcement of the Lok Sabha polls, Gandhi said Modi treated and addressed Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi "and others like them as bhai" while "he calls common people like you as only mitron (friends)". "He made promises of Rs 15 lakh into the accounts of all the poor, two crore jobs in five years and waiver of loans to the farmers. Did he ever tell you why he failed to deliver on these? Has he done anything for the benefit of farmers, workers and the youth?" Gandhi asked. "The Congress, on the other hand, promised loan waiver for farmers and did so within a fortnight of its governments being formed in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan," he claimed. He also said if the Congress-led alliance came to power in the state, "it will draw a minimum income line and a sum of money will be automatically deposited into the accounts of those who were below this line". Referring to demonetisation, the Congress president said if its stated purpose was eradication of black money, why were the common people made to undergo such great difficulties. "Why the savings of women made over the years for difficult times were taken away from them in the name of demonetisation? If this government can waive loans worth Rs 3.5 lakh crore of the rich, why can he not provide much-needed relief to farmers?" Gandhi asked. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday paid tribute to freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their death anniversary observed as 'Shaheed Diwas' (Martyr's Day), saying the spirit of revolution espoused by them is running in our veins. Gandhi said we will continue to fight the battle for their thoughts and ideals. "Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru are not mere names, they are the spirit of revolution running in our veins," he tweeted in Hindi. "Their lives make us strong even today and make us free and human. On Martyrs Day, we bow our heads to our bravehearts. We will continue to fight the battle for their thoughts and ideals," Gandhi wrote. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Karnataka-Goa Income Tax region has detected and unearthed about Rs 800 crore worth foreign assets and started prosecution in three cases, a top department official said here Saturday. "Till date the directorate has detected and unearthed foreign assets worth close to approximately Rs 800 crore. Prosecution has been launched in three cases under the Black Money Act. Prosecution notices have already been issued in 10 other cases," principal chief Income Tax Commissioner (Karnataka-Goa), B R Balakrishnan told a conference here. He said the searches exposed a complex web of overseas entities floated by the assessees for laundering money abroad and investments made in foreign assets, having ramifications under the Black Money Act. While probing many assessees in the mining business, evidence of laundering the money abroad to clear undisclosed overseas assets were found, he said. "A few assessees have surrendered their Indian citizenships and obtained citizenship of other countries. They were found to have opened various undisclosed bank accounts, made substantial investments in trust structures and acquired real estate properties overseas in countries like Hong Kong, the U.K., Samoa, Singapore, Bulgaria and Panama. Searches have been conducted in 26 cases involving foreign assets," Balakrishnan added. On Benami prohibition,he said the I-T department detected a unique modus operandi in Goa, where foreigners used to acquire properties which were not registered in their names. "Enquiries have revealed that many foreigners had paid consideration for villas and were occupying the same for more than a decade without getting it registered or transferred in their names in order to circumvent the law of the land," said Balakrishnan. He said 12 such properties have been provisionally attached under the 'Prohibition of Benami Properties Transaction Act.' The I-T department was likely to provisionally attach approximately 100 acres of land worth more than Rs 100 crore by the end of March, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Iran's supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called the economic difficulties of Iranians the main and most urgent problem of the country in a message aired Thursday on state TV. As Daily Mail writes, Iran has faced increased economic hardship in the last 12 months which was aggravated after US President Donald Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers last May. The renewal of American sanctions, which had been eased in exchange for curbs on Tehran's nuclear programme, sent shockwaves through Iran's economy. "Specially in recent months the difficulties for people's livelihoods has increased," Khamenei said in a prerecorded message aired to mark the beginning of the new Iranian year (21 March 2019 till 20 March 2010). "The economy is the country's urgent problem, it's the country's (most) serious and primary problem," he added, mentioning the devaluation of the national currency, the drop in purchasing power and the fall in production as symptoms of the issue. Khamenei said increasing production was the key to saving the economy and declared "national production" the motto of the new year. The IMF reported that the Iranian economy slumped into recession in 2018 and has forecast a 3.6 percent decline in GDP for 2019. Iran's President Hassan Rouhani also focused on the US sanctions in his new year message broadcast on state TV immediately after Khamenei's. "Some might ask till when will these sanctions and problems go on... these problems began with the oath-breakers and those who have recently reached power in Washington, but the (key to the) end is in our hands," he said sitting in front of a row of Iranian flags. "The more we are united, and the more the enemy realizes that with these sanctions our nation becomes more cohesive, the sooner they will despair and regret (sanctioning Iran)," Rouhani said calling on all branches of government, as well as the armed forces and Iranians from all walks of life, to put aside differences and share the burden of economic "problems and disorder". Rouhani had heavily counted on the 2015 nuclear deal to help save the floundering economy. But ever since the US withdrawal he has been under increasing criticism from his political opponents both for mismanagement of the economy as well as his perceived gullibility in trusting the US in the nuclear deal. Several thousand supporters of Russia's Communist Party rallied in Moscow against government policies, with some attacking President Vladimir Putin who they said was personally responsible for entrenched corruption and rising prices. The Communists had called on Russians to take to the streets across the country to protest the latest raft of repressive laws and falling living standards. The Moscow rally featured both young and elderly protesters and was led by veteran Communist leader Gennady Zyuganov, 74. Similar protests took place in other cities across the country. "I looked at Putin's historical rule and realised that he has not done anything good for the country over the past 20 years," said one of the Moscow protesters, Sergei Tereshin, blaming Putin for corruption and rising poverty. "I cannot trust such a leader," said the 25-year-old engineer. Critics say the Kremlin is ramping up a crackdown on dissenters to counter a fall in Putin's approval rating amid mounting economic troubles. This week Putin signed laws that allow courts to fine and briefly jail people for showing disrespect towards authorities, and to block media for publishing "fake news". Soon after Putin was re-elected for a fourth Kremlin term last year, his government raised value-added tax and hiked the retirement age for the first time since the 1930s, sparking anger across the country. (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 will come out with names of candidates for the remaining Lok Sabha seats in a week. The party had already announced to field Bibi Jagir Kaur and Charanjit Singh Atwal from Khadoor Sahib and Jalandhar seats respectively. "The party will release its remaining candidate list for the parliamentary election in another one week or so, said Sukhbir here. Out of total 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab, Akali Dal contests on 10 and BJP on three. 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. SAD chief said he held a meeting on Saturday with party leaders and workers of Fatehgarh Sahib parliamentary constituency. He further said the party would start a week long membership drive starting April 1 during the course of which party office bearers would fan out across the state to register new members. Sukhbir urged the party office bearers to go house-to-house to make the membership drive a huge success. He said he would also participate in the drive and enroll new members in Jalalabad. SAD chief also announced that he would address party rallies across the state as part of the election campaign for the forthcoming parliamentary polls from March 31. He said he would address three rallies on March 31 at Ropar, Garhshankar and Balachaur. SAD president said he was on the verge of ending the 'Worker Milni' (meeting) programme under which he had interacted with party workers across 90 constituencies in the last more than one month. He said workers were upbeat and ready to take on the alleged "corrupt and non performing" Congress government. "Everywhere I went workers told me the people were ready to teach a befitting lesson to the Congress government for reneging on each and every promise made to the people," he alleged. "People are now also comparing the people friendly leadership of Parkash Singh Badal during which each and every segment of society was benefited with the totally inept and failed leadership of chief minister Amarinder Singh, Sukhbir claimed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A teenager who survived the Parkland school shooting in Florida has killed herself while struggling with survivors' guilt, local media reported Friday. Sydney Aiello, 19, was a student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas on February 14 last year when a former student opened fire with a semiautomatic weapon, killing 14 students and three staff members. Among the dead were two of Aiello's best friends, Meadow Pollack and Joaquin Oliver. Her parents told local CBS4 that she had been treated for PTSD, and suffered from survivor's guilt, when a victim fixates on why they were the one to live, not someone else. Her mother, Cara, told CBS Miami that Aiello had had a difficult time with her college classes "because classrooms now scared her." Aiello graduated from high school in July. She was a yoga enthusiast, and took part in the national student movement seeking legal changes on gun control policy. Stoneman Douglas students became crusaders against gun violence under the banner "March for Our Lives," lobbying for tougher gun control laws and organizing protests and rallies. Meadow's father, Andrew Pollack, told the Miami Herald that his "heart goes out to those poor, poor parents. "It's terrible what happened. Meadow and Sydney were friends for a long, long time," Pollack said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An attack involving gunmen and bomb blasts on a complex housing government ministries in Somalia's capital killed at least 11 people on Saturday, including the deputy labour minister, officials said. Claimed by the Al-Shabaab Islamist group, the assault was a sign of the insurgency's continued ability to strike at the heart of Somalia's government, despite years of foreign military support for Mogadishu. The fighting began with two blasts at the gates of the complex housing the labour and works ministries. Police say at least four gunmen then stormed the buildings, leading to a shootout as officers rushed to confront the attackers. "The death toll reached eleven, three of them women, and the number of wounded is 15," said Abdukadir Abdirahman Adan, director of Mogadishu's Aamin ambulance service. Senator Ilyas Ali Hassan confirmed that Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, the deputy minister for labour and social affairs, was also killed. "I cannot elaborate on how he died but I can confirm that he was killed inside the ministry building," Hassan said. Police official Ibrahim Mohamed said all the gunmen were killed. "There were some other casualties including members of the police," he said, without elaborating. Attacks that combine bombings with gunmen have become a speciality of the Al-Qaeda linked group, which is running an armed insurrection against what it sees as heretic and foreign influence in Somalia. The group emerged from Islamic Courts that once controlled central and southern Somalia and are variously estimated to number between 5,000 and 9,000 men. In 2010 the Shabaab declared their allegiance to Al-Qaeda. The following year, the group were chased out of Mogadishu by the 22,000-strong African Union peace-enforcement mission, AMISOM. They have since lost many of their strongholds but retain control of large rural swathes of the country and continue to wage a guerrilla war, frequently hitting Mogadishu. In October 2017 a truck bombing in a busy neighbourhood of the capital killed over 500 people, the deadliest attack in Somalia to date. Among Al-Shabaab's adversaries is the US military, which has killed over 800 people in airstrikes targeting the insurgents over the last two years. This week Amnesty International released a report challening the US's claim that the airtrikes only killed "terrorists." Amnesty researchers say at least 14 civilians were killed in US bombings. The US military denied the report. The Shabaab have also carried out a string of attacks in Kenya since 2011. The deadliest of these took place on April 2, 2015 when 148 people were killed at Garissa University in northeastern Kenya. In 2013, a Shabaab raid on Nairobi's Westgate shopping mall left 67 dead in a siege that unfolded over four days. And in January this year, 14 people were killed in a Shabaab-claimed attack on a luxury hotel complex in Nairobi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP president Amit Shah Saturday cited Sam Pitroda's comments to accuse the Congress of "insulting" martyrdom of soldiers killed in the Pulwama terror attack and asserted that only his party can ensure the country's security. In a fresh offensive against the Congress a day after its leader Pitroda questioned the government's aggressive action against Pakistan, Shah asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to apologise to people and armed forces for these comments. Speaking to media, Shah said Pitroda's statement conveyed that the Pulwama terror attack was a "routine" incident carried out by a few people for which Pakistan cannot be blamed, as the BJP chief asked Gandhi to make his party's stand clear on the issue. Pitroda, he added, also questioned surgical strikes and air strikes by the Indian armed forces. "Does the Congress believe that terror incidents in the country have nothing to do with the Pakistan government or Pakistan Army?" Shah asked, seeking Gandhi's response. Pitroda is Indian Overseas Congress chief and is seen to be one of the key advisers to Gandhi. His comments, including that one cannot "jump on entire nation" (Pakistan) just because some people from there "came here and attacked" in reference to Pulwama terror attack, were Friday seized on by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead the BJP's all-out attack against the Congress on the issues of terrorism. Keeping the heat on the opposition party on the issues of terrorism and nationalism in the run-up to the Lok Sabha polls, Shah said Saturday the Congress is known for "vote bank" and "appeasement" during election and asked if such can be above national interest and the "blood of martyrs". The BJP president then drew a comparison between the Congress-led UPA dispensation's "no strong action" against terrorism and the Modi government's "zero tolerance" against it to assert that only the saffron party is capable of securing India. "I want to reassure people of this country that only the BJP can provide security to the country, can give a befitting response to terrorism and can foil Pakistan's conspiracy," he said. The Modi government has succeeded in isolating Pakistan internationally and the morale of security forces is sky high, he said. Shah said the Congress president on March 7 had said that questions raised on air strikes should be answered. "But whose questions he wants to be answered and who raising questions on Indian Air Force. Who do you support? It is not proper for the national president of a party to raise such questions and doubt the IAF," he said. Attacking Gandhi, he added, "When anti-national slogans were raised in JNU you called it freedom of expression and you also went there in their support. This is an example of your abhorrent vote bank politics". The BJP president also rejected the Congress distancing itself from Pitroda's comments by terming them as his personal views, as he wondered "what is personal view in politics". People have seen through the Congress' "strategy" of running an orchestrated campaign like this for vote bank and have been distancing themselves from it, Shah said in a swipe at the opposition party. He cited past controversial comments of several Congress leaders - including B K Hariprasad, Kapil Sibal, Digvijay Singh and Sandeep Dikshit among others - from which their party had disassociated itself, and claimed that it is part of Gandhi's politics. The Congress president should tender an apology without any delay, he demanded. Citing Pitroda's comments, Shah said Gandhi should also answer if he believes that armed forces' actions like surgical strikes and air strikes will not work in dealing with terrorism but dialogue with Pakistan will. Shah said many terror attacks were carried out in the UPA rule government and asked, "If terror attacks shouldn't be responded with surgical strikes and air strikes, then is this the Congress' policy to deal with terrorism with talks. You opted for talks but what was the result?" The "Sonia Manmohan" government was in power for 10 years but there was no tough action taken against terrorism because the Congress lacked courage, he claimed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP president will launch the party's poll campaign after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced with a rally in Agra in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, and its top leaders will hold rallies in every constituency across the country till Tuesday. Asserting that national security plank will figure high on the party's 'Vijay Sankalp' (Pledge for Victory) rallies planned for Sunday and Tuesday, senior party leader Mulkhtar Abbas Naqvi said the BJP will launch "ground strike" against "abusers of security forces". Top party leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have been accusing the opposition of lowering the morale of armed forces with its comments following the Balakot air strikes by the Indian Air Force. Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Sushma Swaraj, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Piyush Goyal, J P Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan, Nirmala Sitharaman, Smriti Irani and other party leaders are scheduled to address rallies on Sunday and Tuesday, Naqvi said. Many senior leaders, who are contesting the elections, will also address public meetings in their respective constituency. Naqvi, who is not in the fray, will address rallies in Rampur and Amroha, former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan in Bhopal and Puri and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Varanasi and Gandhinagar. Union minister Arun Jaitley will attend political programme in Delhi while BJP general secretary Bhupendra Yadav will speak in Ranchi and Gandhinagar. Shah will address a rally in Moradabad on Tuesday. Naqvi said the BJP will share the details of the work of the Modi government, which he added has been committed to the country's development and pride, in these rallies. "We will also caution people against the insult being caused to security forces by the and other opposition parties," he said. The Election Commission had announced the schedule for seven-phase elections on March 10. A Chinese-origin businessman in Singapore has drawn flak for mistakenly publishing flyers in Hindi instead of Tamil which is one of the four official languages of the country. The flyers, whose about 100 copies have been circulated, were meant to inform the public about the relocation of a common "Wet Market" where fresh food is sold. The announcement was printed in English and translated into three other languages: Chinese, Malay and what was meant to be Tamil but ended up as Hindi instead. Wayne Neo, a Chinese-origin market operator, prepared a letter of apology in Singapore's four official languages -- English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil -- and submitted it to the authorities to vet, The Straits Times reported. The error was highlighted in a flyer which had translation in Hindi instead of Tamil. A photo of one such flyer was posted on Facebook on March 22 by an Indian-origin woman Vijaya Kandasamy. "I think you need more people who can read and write Tamil. What language is that?... Please remove the person from your team if they don't know our very own official languages!" Netizens also pointed out that the Malay portion of the flyer was poorly translated. Indian-origin MP for Sembawang Group Representative Constituency Vikram Nair told the daily that the flyers were put up by an independent "Wet Market" operator, who had not consulted any MPs or the town council before printing them. Nair said the operator does not speak Hindi or Tamil. The "well-meaning" operator tried to print the flyers to promote the new location of the "Wet Market", he said. "He has been fighting hard for the stall owners (at the market at Admiralty Place mall), to keep the "Wet Market" alive given its move to a temporary location (next to Woodlands East Neighbourhood Police Centre in northern Singapore)," he said. Nair said that he contacted the operator who said the flyers have been taken down. "He was very apologetic," said Nair. Neo has repeatedly apologised for the mistake when contacted by The Straits Times on Friday. A spokesman for the market said: "It was a bad mistake on our part, there are really no excuses." Initially, he and his team had planned to print the flyers in English but were concerned that some elderly residents in the area might not understand the language. A decision was then made to print the flyers in the four official languages. Neo and his team used 'Google Translate' to produce the translations, leading to the poorly-translated Malay section. "We also mistakenly selected Hindi instead of Tamil," Neo told the daily. He intends to display the copies of the letter of apology on the stalls at the market's current location. Nair told Neo that while the MPs were supportive of his efforts, he should only print flyers after getting all the necessary government approvals, and ensuring that the translations are correct. "I also told him that we have people who could help if he needed assistance, and that he should issue future notices in English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil," Nair added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Five people were killed including a deputy minister on Saturday after Al-Shabaab militants stormed government buildings in Somalia's capital, a witness and a senator told AFP. "I saw the dead bodies of four people, one of them in police uniform," said witness Abdulahi Mohamed. Senator Ilyas Ali Hassan named the deceased minister as Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, who was killed separately. The attack began with twin bombings of the complex housing Somalia's ministries of works and labour, which were then stormed by the Shabaab. Police official Ibrahim Mohamed said the attack ended after police killed four gunmen. "There were some other casualties including members of the police," he said, without elaborating. The attack also left at least 11 people wounded, according to Abdukadir Abdirahman Adan, director of the Aamin ambulance service in the capital Mogadishu. Shortly after the assault began, Al-Shabaab issued a statement claiming credit. Attacks that combine bombings with gunmen have become a speciality of the Al-Qaeda linked group, which is fighting an armed insurrection in Somalia against what it sees as heretic and foreign influence. Earlier this month, at least 20 people died in an attack in Mogadishu which saw Al-Shabaab jihadists battling security forces for nearly 24 hours. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Syria on Friday asked the UN Security Council to uphold resolutions declaring that Israel withdraw from the Golan Heights after President Donald Trump said the United States would recognize Israel's annexation of the territory. Syrian Ambassador Bashar Jaafari urged the council to "take practical measures to ensure that the council is fulfilling ... its mandate in the implementation of its resolutions" concerning the Golan, in a letter seen by AFP. The council is scheduled to discuss the Golan on Wednesday during a meeting on renewing the mandate of the UN peacekeeping force deployed between Israel and Syria in the Golan, known as UNDOF. Trump broke with decades of US Middle East policy when he posted a Tweet on Thursday that said it was time to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan. In the letter, the Syrian ambassador also asked Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to reaffirm the UN position on Israel's occupation of the Golan, which it seized from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War. Asked about Trump's stance, UN spokesman Farhan Haq said UN policy was based on council resolutions and those of the General Assembly on the status of the Golan. "The resolutions are of course unchanged," said Haq. "Our policies have not changed in that regard." The United States backed Resolution 242 adopted in 1967, which calls on Israel to withdraw from territories it occupied in the Six-Day war and refers to the "inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by war". The council adopted another resolution in 1973 that reaffirmed the demand for a withdrawal and in 1981, backed a separate measure that rejected Israel's annexation of the Golan. After Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a group of Arab countries presented a resolution in 2017 condemning the decision to the General Assembly that won overwhelming support. UN diplomats said it was premature to speculate as to whether there would be a similar measure in the assembly. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Thailand's election Sunday is likely to produce a weak, unstable government whether it's a civilian or military-backed party that cobbles together a coalition, setting off a new phase of uncertainty in a country that's a US ally in Southeast Asia and one of the world's top tourist destinations. The election is Thailand's first since its military seized power from an elected government in May 2014. It was the conservative establishment's third major attempt by either military or legal coup to eradicate the influence of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a tycoon who made his fortune in telecommunication and upended Thailand's with a populist political revolution nearly two decades ago. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who as army chief led the 2014 coup, is hoping to stay in power with a hybrid political system that relies on an appointed Senate and a 20-year national strategic plan to limit the power of political parties not aligned with the military. "It will be unstable," said Prajak Kongkirati, a political science lecturer at Thailand's Thammasat University. "Whatever party wins, Prayuth or Thaksin's side, both governments will be weak and unstable. The government can collapse within a year or a year and a half and we might have a new election quite soon." Prayuth's five years as junta leader have been marred by complaints of human rights violations and growing economic inequality. Thailand's ties with the U.S. cooled because of the coup and Prayuth is seeking greater international legitimacy with an election meant to provide the appearance of a return to democracy. If the junta had one success, it was reinforcing its claim to be the protector of Thailand's monarchy, an institution at the heart of Thai society, following the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 2016 after a reign of seven decades and the succession of his son Maha Vajiralongkorn. Critics say the new military-designed political system is intrinsically unstable because it is not accepted by all sides and will be the beginning of a new round of struggle in Thailand. The country's prime minister will not be directly elected by its 51 million voters. Instead, 750 lawmakers 500 from an elected lower house of parliament and 250 from a junta-appointed Senate will decide by simple majority. The prime minister does not have to be a member of parliament. None of the major political parties is likely to have enough elected lawmakers to choose a prime minister and form a government outright. Chaotic outcomes, such as a military-favored prime minister chosen with Senate backing who lacks a majority in the lower house, are possible. Sunday's vote is the latest episode in a sometimes violent political struggle that pits Thaksin's political machine against a conservative establishment led by the ultra-royalist military. Thaksin swept to power in 2001 with social welfare policies aimed at uplifting the majority rural poor. He has lived in exile since being ousted by a 2006 military coup and accused of abuse of power, corruption and self-enrichment. Some saw him as disrespectful to the monarchy. The 2014 coup ousted the government that was led by Thaksin's sister Yingluck Shinawatra, who was the head of the Thaksin-allied Pheu Thai party at the time. On Friday, Thaksin hosted a glittering wedding reception in Hong Kong for his youngest daughter, causing a sensation and substantial media and online coverage in Thailand. Guests included the Thai king's sister Princess Ubolratana Mahidol, who last month made a spectacular but quickly aborted attempt to be a prime ministerial candidate for a small Thaksin-allied party. Though ostensibly a family affair, the ceremony's timing two days ahead of the election seemed to implicitly say: Don't forget me and my political allies when you go out to vote. The Pheu Thai party remains broadly popular, especially in the country's north and northeast, home to the majority of voters, and its current leader, Sudarat Keyuraphan, has urged all Thais to vote, hoping a high turnout will derail Prayuth's plans to stay in power. "If Pheu Thai does reach the number needed to form a new government, it is unclear how the military leadership would respond," said John Ciorciari, a Southeast Asia expert at the University of Michigan. "Regardless of the election result, it is unlikely to put an end to Thailand's protracted political crisis," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The solemn event dedicated to the Novruz holiday was held in the park named after Zarifa Aliyeva in the Binagadi district of Baku. A festive program with the participation of the ensemble Yanardag, dance groups, and performers Aygun Mammadli, Asif Aliyev and others was prepared for the guests. The main characters of the Novruz holiday - Bahar gyzy, Kyosa and Kechal - created a unique festive atmosphere to the event, Trend reports. The event was organized with the support of the executive branch of the Binagadi district and the Main Culture Department of Baku. President Donald Trump tweeted Friday that he has reversed his administration's decision to slap new sanctions on North Korea, with his press secretary explaining that he "likes" leader Kim Jong Un and doesn't think they're necessary. It's unclear, however, which sanctions the president was referencing in his tweet, which took Treasury officials by surprise. "It was announced today by the US Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea," Trump wrote from his private club in Palm Beach. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" The White House did not immediately respond to questions about which sanctions Trump was referring to. No new action against North Korea was announced by the Treasury Department on Friday, though Trump this week did threaten that new ones could be added. On Thursday, his administration did sanction two Chinese shipping companies suspected of helping North Korea evade sanctions the first targeted actions taken against Pyongyang since Trump and Kim met in Hanoi, Vietnam, last month for negotiations about North Korea's nuclear weapons program. The summit ended without a deal. It was the latest example of Trump's unusual governance-by-tweet. Trump's proclamations have often caught agency officials by surprise, leaving them scrambling to figure out what he's directing and to implement his directives. Trump's national security adviser John Bolton had described that step as "important" action, tweeting, "The maritime industry must do more to stop North Korea's illicit shipping practices." White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement Friday that Trump "likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary."The White House had said Thursday's sanctions were evidence the US was maintaining pressure on North Korea in an effort to coax its leader to give up his nuclear weapons program. The Treasury Department sanctioned Dalian Haibo International Freight Co. Ltd. and Liaoning Danxing International Forwarding Co. Ltd. for using deceptive methods to circumvent international and US sanctions and the US commitment to implementing existing U.N. Security Council resolutions. Calls to the two companies rang without response Friday or were answered by people who immediately hung up the phone. The Treasury Department, in coordination with the State Department and the US Coast Guard, also updated a North Korea shipping advisory, adding dozens of vessels thought to be doing ship-to-ship transfers with North Korean tankers or exported North Korean coal in violation of sanctions. Two senior administration officials, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity to discuss US policy on North Korea, said that illegal ship-to-ship transfers that violate US and international sanctions have increased and that not all countries, including China, are implementing the restrictions. They said the deceptive practices include disabling or manipulating ship identification systems, repainting the names on vessels and falsifying cargo documents. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement that fully implementing the UN resolutions is key to getting Kim to give up his nuclear weapons program. "Treasury will continue to enforce our sanctions, and we are making it explicitly clear that shipping companies employing deceptive tactics to mask illicit trade with North Korea expose themselves to great risk," Mnuchin said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two minor Hindu sisters were allegedly kidnapped and forcibly married after being converted to Islam in Pakistan's Sindh province, triggering protests by the minority community. The two girls, 13-year-old Raveena and 15-year-old Reena, were allegedly kidnapped by a group of "influential" men from their home in Ghotki district on the eve of Holi. Soon after the kidnapping, a video went viral in which a cleric was purportedly shown soleminising the Nikah (marriage) of the two girls. Later another video surfaced in which the two sisters claimed they embraced Islam themselves and no one forced them to covert or get married. The Hindu community in Pakistan has carried out massive demonstrations calling for strict action to be taken against those responsible, while reminding Prime Minister Imran Khan of his promises to the minorities of the country. Sanjesh Dhanja, President of Pakistan Hindu Sewa Welfare Trust, an NGO, called on Prime Minister Khan to take note of the incident and prove to everyone that minorities were indeed safe and secure in Pakistan. The truth is minorities suffer from different sorts of persecution and the problem of young Hindu girls being kidnapped at gunpoint and forced to convert to Islam or get married to much older men is widespread in Sindh, he said. Dhanja said the Hindu community had staged several sit-ins in Ghotki district after which police reluctantly registered FIR against the accused persons. The Hindu community leaders have claimed that the accused belonged to the Kohbar and Malik tribes in the area. Following the incident, an FIR was filed by the girls' brother, alleging that their father had an altercation with the accused sometime ago and on the eve of Holi they armed with pistols forcibly entered their home and took the sisters away. A Pakistan Muslim League-Functional MPA Nand Kumar Goklani, who had initially moved a bill against forced conversions, urged the government to get the law passed immediately. We demand the government to take up my bill and get it passed without any delay, he said. Goklani said: "The fact that the two girls were underage confirmed it was a crime and they couldn't show free will on getting married or conversion to Islam". "One of the accused persons has been arrested, while the police were conducting raids to arrest the others," a senior police official of Ghotki district said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday hailed the defeat of the Islamic State (ISIS) after the capture of the terrorist network's last held territory of Baghuz in Syria and vowed to carry on fighting the terrorist ideology. Prime Minister May praised the extraordinary courage of British forces that have fought in Syria and Iraq alongside a US-led global military coalition. "The liberation of the last Daesh (ISIS) held territory is a historic milestone that would not have been possible without their (armed forces') commitment, professionalism and courage, May said in a Downing Street statement. But we must not lose sight of the threat Daesh poses and the Government remains committed to eradicating their poisonous ideology. We will continue to do what is necessary to protect the British people and our allies, she said. UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt echoed her views on the historic moment achieved by the tireless work of the global forces against terror. Daesh once imposed their rule of terror on an area the size of the United Kingdom. Now the last territory held by Daesh in Syria has been liberated, he said. But we cannot be complacent. Even without territory, Daesh and its poisonous ideology will continue to pose a threat to the people of Iraq and Syria, as well as to the wider world. The international community must remain firm in its determination to counter and defeat it, he said. ISIS had held out for months against the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the small town of Baghuz on the Euphrates river, clinging on to an area of land less than 700 sq metres wide despite fierce coalition bombing. On Saturday an SDF spokesperson, Mustafa Bali, tweeted that the town had been liberated. On this unique day we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible, he wrote. The elimination of the so-called ISIS Caliphate is a significant symbolic victory against the terror group, which at the height of its power held more than 8 million people hostage to its bloody interpretation of Islamic law. This has been a long campaign ending the misery of millions, as [Isis] swept through Syria and Iraq, and came so close to taking the city of Baghdad. But due to the tireless efforts of our service personnel, we have been able to beat them back, depriving them of territory and making sure that Britain is safer, said UK defence secretary Gavin Williamson. But we cannot be complacent. They've dispersed, and they'll continue to pose a threat to Britain, and that is why we will always remain vigilant, he said. At least 11,000 SDF fighters, a Kurdish-led militia which includes Arab, Syriac and Turkmen units, have died in the four-year military campaign against ISIS in Syria. Tens of thousands more troops died across the border in Iraq, with countless civilian causalties. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Goa police Saturday arrested a Ukrainian national for staying in the state after the expiry of his tourist visa. Sindieiev Oleksandr was arrested at Margao Railway Station. A senior police official said his visa had expired in January this year. A case was filed against him under the Foreigners Act for illegally staying in the state, the officer said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The BJP on Saturday appointed Union minister Uma Bharti, who has decided not to contest the Lok Sabha polls, its national vice-president. Bharti, who represents Jhansi in the Lok Sabha, was brought in as a senior office bearer after she conveyed to the BJP leadership her wish to not contest the coming general elections. The Hindutva leader has said she wants to go on a 18-month-long pilgrimage from May. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A man Saturday tried to commit suicide as he was upset the Shiv Sena had denied a ticket to sitting Osamanabad Lok Sabha MP Ravindra Gaikwad, police said. The Shiv Sena Friday declared a list of 21 candidates for the Lok Sabha poll, dropping Gaikwad (59), who had hit an Air India staffer with a slipper at the IGI airport in Delhi. The Sena has replaced Gaikwad with Omraje Nimbalkar in Osmanabad constituency. "Baba Bhosle, a rickshaw driver, tried to immolate himself on Saturday afternoon in Umarga area. He was at a meeting organised by Sena workers upset with Gaikwad being denied a ticket. However, police deployed at the meet managed to stop Bhosle from lighting a match after dousing himself with kerosene," an official said. Bhosle was detained and he told police he was upset about Gaikwad being dropped from the Sena's list of Lok Sabha candidates, the official added. A case of attempt to commit suicide has been registered against Bhosle, the official said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil was conspicuously absent Saturday when the Congress and NCP announced firming up of opposition's alliance in Maharashtra here. There were also reports that he was campaigning for the BJP in Ahmednagar, his home turf, which the Congress denied. Vikhe Patil's son Sujay has joined the BJP, which has fielded him from Ahmednagar Lok Sabha constituency. The Congress veteran had earlier lashed out at the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) for not giving up the Ahmednagar seat from its quota for Sujay. The leader of opposition in the Assembly had also said he would not campaign for the NCP nominee in Ahmednagar. Asked about reports that Vikhe Patil was campaigning for the BJP in Ahmednagar, state Congress chief Ashok Chavan said, "I refuse to believe that Vikhe Patil is campaigning for the BJP. "I will ascertain the facts from him. He wanted Ahmednagar seat for his son. We held discussions with the NCP but the things did not work out," Chavan said at the press conference where he formally announced the alliance of 56 parties for Lok Sabha polls against the BJP-Sena combine in the state. Asked if the Congress will leave Sangli constituency for Raju Shetti's Swabimani Shetkari Sanghtana, Chavan said discussions were on with local leaders on this issue. "But we are committed to give one seat to Shetti," he said. Chavan, sitting MP from Nanded, also said he would contest from there if the party asked him to. Rajiv Satav, the other Congress MP from Maharashtra who represents Hingoli, has refused to contest, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The BJP leadership Saturday sent out a strong message to dissidents who have been protesting over selection of candidates in West Bengal saying that those who do not agree with the party's decison are free to leave it. "There is some resentment over candidate selection. Everything can be sorted out through discussions. But if some people think that by staging protests the party would be influenced to change its decision then they are wrong. They are free to leave the party," Ghosh told reporters. Protests erupted in various parts of West Bengal after BJP in its first list of 28 candidates for West Bengal nominated several defectors from the ruling Trinamool Congress and even the CPI-M to take on Mamata Banerjee's party in the state. Another candidate Mafuja Khatun was announced by the party today. She will contest from Jangipur, where the Congress has fielded former president Pranab Mukherjee's son Abhijit Mukherjee. With old-timers being overlooked in favour of turncoats and newcomers, protestors gathered outside BJP offices in various parts of the state to vent their feelings. In some places they put up posters of rejected ticket aspirants outside the party's offices. This is not the first time that the BJP has faced such protests. During the Kolkata Municipal Corporation polls in 2015 several ticket aspirants had staged protests outside the party office here. The BJP Bengal leadership Saturday held a closed door meeting with state leaders and discussed various aspects of the upcoming polls. During the meeting BJP national general secretary and Bengal minder, Kailash Vijayvargiya is reported to have said that if some aspirant did not get a ticket this time it did not mean that he would not the next time. "You (an aspirant) have to wait and keep working for the party. There is still a long way to go," a state BJP leader quoted him as saying in the meeting. The saffron party, which bagged two Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2014 elections, is now targeting 23 of the state's 42 constituencies. BJP state vice-president Raj Kamal Pathak submitted his resignation from the post after he was denied a party ticket. "If after serving the party for three decades and holding the post of vice-president do not make me qualified to get a party ticket, it is better to resign from the post," Pathak had said while tendering his resignation. The veteran BJP leader wanted to contest from Hooghly district, but he was overlooked in favour of a newcomer. Of the 29 candidates announced so far, five had recently defected to the saffron party from Trinamool Congress and two from the CPI(M). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Karnataka kept the door open on Saturday to talks with local ride-hailing service Ola to avoid a ban that could help rival Uber build market share. Karnataka earlier this week issued a notice to suspend Ola's licence for six months for violating government rules by running motorcycle taxis which are not allowed for safety reasons. State capital and technology hub Bengaluru is among Ola's top three markets in India. V P Ikkeri, state commissioner for transport and road safety, told reporters the department had seized and issued fines for about 258 bikes during a probe ... A Delhi court has ordered attachment of embattled liquor baron Vijay Mallya's properties in Bengaluru in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FERA) violation case, PTI reported. According to the agency report, Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Deepak Sherawat issued fresh directions after the Bengaluru Police, through Enforcement Directorate's special public prosecutor N K Matta and advocate Samvedna Verma, sought more time to execute its earlier order in this regard. Fugitive Vijay Mallya, who remains on bail on an extradition warrant in the UK, is wanted in India on alleged fraud and money laundering charges amounting to an estimated Rs 9,000 crore. The court has reportedly directed the state police to attach Mallya's properties by July 10, the next date of hearing. Also Read: Will Vijay Mallya be extradited before or after general elections? The 63-year-old businessman has been declared a proclaimed offender by the court on January 4 last year for evading its summons in the case. As per agency report, the Bengaluru Police had earlier informed the court that it had identified 159 properties belonging to the businessman, but had not been able to attach any of them. Earlier on April 12, 2017, the Court had issued an open-ended non-bailable warrant (NBW) against the liquor baron. An open-ended non-bailable warrant does not carry a time limit for execution, unlike other non-bailable warrants. Also Read: Vijay Mallya seeks UK court permission to appeal against extradition order Last month, the Delhi court sent corporate lobbyist Deepak Talwar with alleged links to Vijay Mallya to 14-day judicial custody in a money laundering case. Deepak Talwar, who was extradited from Dubai along with Dubai-based businessman Rajeev Saxena, had alleged links with Mallya in a money laundering case pertaining to the negotiations favoring foreign private airlines, causing loss to Air India, the ED had reported. Edited by Chitranjan Kumar Five people were injured as a result of a car accident with a minibus in Almaty. The accident occurred at the intersection of Ryskulov and Kazybayev streets. According to the witnesses to the accident, the driver of the Toyota Camry exceeded the speed. As he later said, another car allegedly cut him off at a protracted turn. Trying to avoid the collision, he turned to the left, after which the car skidded, flew over the separator and collided with the Mercedes Sprinter minibus. Jet Airways pilots have said they, along with engineers and another highly critical segment of employees, have not been paid salaries since January 1. The airline has released only 12.5 per cent of the December pay, they said. Jet Airways, which reportedly has a debt of a billion dollars, has failed to pay lenders and aircraft lessors and has grounded one third of its fleet. The next few days will be critical for its future as the pilots have said they will not fly from April 1 unless Jet clears their pending salaries. The pilots' union NAG (National Aviators' Guild) has appealed to the Prime Ministers' Office (PMO) and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu for urgent intervention. There are hundreds of pilots that have reportedly approached other airlines for jobs. ''Solve the issues of the pilots. They are undergoing lots of hardships,'' says Captain Chopra in a letter to the Civil Aviation Minister, Suresh Prabhu. He is a Boeing 777 commander with more than two decades of experience as a pilot, who also heads the union representing pilots of Jet Airways. Captain Karan Chopra adds, ''There are EMIs to be paid by the pilots. There are kids' education, aging parents and hospital bills. Marriages have been postponed. Young First Officers have called me repeatedly and have said 'Sir, we have to pawn ornaments of our mothers. Please save us. Please urge the management to pay our salaries." ''Stress in this section of employees can easily compromise safety and is not at all desirable in a profession that demands the highest levels of alertness and safety,'' he says. Once India's second-biggest airline, Jet Airways has been forced to ground almost two-thirds of its fleet because of its inability to pay lessors. As per industry estimates, Jet has total debt of Rs 8,000 crore in addition to payables such as vendors' dues worth Rs 15,000 crore. According to reports, State Bank of India has asked the airline's chairman Naresh Goyal , his wife and two nominees to step down from the board of the airline with immediate effect. The lenders have also agreed to put in Rs 1,200 crore of interim financing, which would make them the majority equity holder after Etihad decided to pull out. In the meanwhile, rivals like IndiGo and SpiceJet are potential beneficiaries of Jet grounding most of its fleet. The government has tried reaching out to other carriers for saving jobs at Jet Airways India Ltd. including SpiceJet Ltd. to consider taking over some of the debt-laden company's aircraft, as per media reports. The proposal involves SpiceJet, led by Chairman Ajay Singh, acquiring as many as 40 of Jet Airways' grounded planes that are owned by lessors, one of the people said, asking not to be identified as discussions are preliminary. The government has also reached out to other carriers. "Operating 40 aircraft will help employ as many as 250 pilots as well as cabin crew, maintenance workers and engineers," sources quoted. The aviation regulator recently said Jet Airways had only 41 aircraft in its fleet for operations out of around 120 planes, and that there might be further attrition in the fleet size and flights ahead. (Edited by Rupa Burman Roy) Also Read: Lok Sabha Elections 2019: Congress party struggles to build alliance, giving Modi an edge Also Read: PM Modi sends greetings to Imran Khan on Pak National Day, says time to work together in an atmosphere free of terror and violence The Election Commission of India (ECI) has registered on Twitter to promote voter awareness ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. The account name, ECI #DeshKaMahaTyohar, will be used to make people aware about their voting rights. The EC's decision to open official account on Twitter comes days after Twitter introduced an election emoji, which has an image of Parliament and its hashtag is available in 12 different languages. The #LokSabhaElections2019 is just 20 days away! Join in the election conversation with a special emoji using the below hashtags, available in 12 different languages. #LokSabhaElections2019 #IndiaDecides2019#IndiaElections2019#2019 pic.twitter.com/TY49t0ETI1 Twitter India (@TwitterIndia) March 22, 2019 The Twitter account refers to the Election Commission of India's awareness programme called "Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation"(SVEEP), which utilises various modes and media to educate citizens. The official website of SVEEP provides information on how people can register themselves for voting, deadlines for the registration, and the key elections dates. "Welcome Election Commission of India @ECISVEEP on Twitter! Look forward to raising voter awareness together #LokSabhaElections2019 #DeshKaMahaTyohar" Twitter said in a post. The account has 14,000 plus followers and is following nine people as of now, including official accounts of Chief Electoral Officers of various states and the official account of Twitter India. Welcome Election Commission of India @ECISVEEP on Twitter! Look forward to raising voter awareness together #LokSabhaElections2019 #DeshKaMahaTyohar https://t.co/Oe4E7GjUts Twitter India (@TwitterIndia) March 22, 2019 Mahima Kaul, Director, Public Policy and Government at Twitter India, told NDTV: "India is the world's largest democracy, and the upcoming election is a key priority for us at Twitter. Over the past several months, we've taken significant steps to safeguard the integrity of conversations and enhance the health of our platform. We are honoured to onboard the Election Commission handle to encourage voter education". The Election Commission of India is an autonomous constitutional body, which is responsible for administering election processes in India. It administers elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies in India and the offices of the President and the Vice President in the country. (Edited by: Nehal Solanki) Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2019: Congress party struggles to build alliance, giving Modi an edge Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2019 LIVE: NDA announces candidates for 39 out of 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar; Ravi Shankar Prasad to contest from Patna Sahib About 4.74 crore small and marginal farmers registered under the PM-Kisan scheme before the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for general election came into effect on March 10 will get the second installment of Rs 2,000 each in their bank accounts, a senior government official said Saturday. Of these 4.74 crore beneficiaries, 2.74 crore farmers have so far received the first installment and the rest will be covered by month-end, he said. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has allowed the Union Agriculture Ministry to transfer the first and second tranche of the payment to all those beneficiaries registered under the scheme before March 10, the official added. Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the Centre announced the Rs 75,000-crore Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme under which Rs 6,000 per year would be disbursed in three instalments to around 12 crore farmers who hold cultivable land up to 2 hectares. In the budget, the NDA government allocated a sum of Rs 20,000 crore, to transfer Rs 2,000 each to farmers in the first installment by March-end, for the ongoing fiscal under the scheme. Also Read: Lok Sabha Elections 2019 LIVE: Kerala Congress wants Rahul Gandhi to contest from Wayanad The scheme was formally launched at national level by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 24 at Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh by transferring the first instalment to 1.01 crore farmers, amounting Rs 2,021 crore. "We were hoping to have the data of 12 crore farmers from across the country. But the data of 4.74 crore farmers has come before the MCC was enforced," the official told PTI. The government has already released the first installment of Rs 2,000 each to 2.74 crore beneficiaries and the remaining will be covered before this month-end, he said. With regard to the payment of second tranche to begin from April 1, the official said the ECI has allowed to make the payment to all those beneficiaries registered before the MCC kicked in. "We can go ahead and make the payment of first installment to the rest of the people whose names are on the portal. We can go ahead and make the payment for the second installment as well," the official said. In Uttar Pradesh, the first installment has been released to around one crore farmers so far and the Centre has received data of additional 66 lakh farmers. The official further said that Punjab and Haryana are amongst the top beneficiary states as more than 80 per cent of the farmers registered under the scheme have received the first installment. While, some states including West Bengal, Delhi and Sikkim have yet not submitted the farmers' data and therefore no money has been transferred. The official also mentioned that no fresh data has come from states after the MCC came into effect. Also Read: Jet Airways crises: Pilots urge PMO to 'save' them; say salary delay has forced them to pawn mothers' ornaments The BJP leadership has decided to carpet-bomb West Bengal with rallies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP national president Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during all the seven phases of polling. Modi will address his first election rally in the city's Brigade Parade ground on April 3, a senior state BJP leader said. "Modi ji will address at least one rally in each phase in the state. Amit Shah ji will also address one rally per phase and Yogiji will address eight rallies in all," the leader said. West Bengal is one of the priority states for the BJP in the country. The saffron party, which bagged two Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2014 elections, is now targeting 23 of the state's 42 constituencies. The Lok Sabha election in the state is a "semi-final match" for the BJP before it goes out for an all-out battle to oust the Mamata Banerjee-headed Trinamool Congress government in the 2021 assembly polls, party leaders said. A senior state BJP leader said apart from Odisha, West Bengal is the focus for the party in eastern India. The saffron party is hoping to overcome its deficit in the number of seats from states of North India, where it has reached a saturation point, by winning more seats from states like West Bengal and Odisha, the leader said. Lok Sabha elections will be held in West Bengal in seven phases from April 11 to May 19. Also Read: Lok Sabha Elections 2019: BJP releases sixth list of 48 candidates, Jayant Sinha gets ticket for Hazaribagh India's Reliance Industries, operator of the world's largest oil refining complex, on Friday said in a statement it was not breaching U.S. sanctions against Venezuela. The company said its recent fuel exports to Venezuela were agreed to before Washington imposed sanctions in January, and that they were meant to settle Reliance's crude oil imports from Venezuela. Reliance said it has been in "continuous communication with the US Department of State regarding its activities in Venezuela" since the imposition of sanctions. The State Department referred a request for comment to the Treasury Department which did not immediately respond. The Reliance statement came a day after Reuters reported that the conglomerate was selling fuels to Venezuela from India and Europe to sidestep sanctions that bar U.S.-based companies from dealing with state-run PDVSA, according to trading sources and Refinitiv Eikon data. "Reliance's few transportation fuel shipments to Venezuela, treated as offsets for crude oil receipts, were committed and in-transit when there were no specific restrictions to such transactions. They were all fuels refined in India," Reliance said. Reliance had been supplying alkylate, diluent naphtha and other fuel to Venezuela through its U.S.-based subsidiary before Washington imposed sanctions aimed at curbing the OPEC member's oil exports and ousting socialist President Nicolas Maduro. Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries biggest gainer in market cap in FY19 Reliance, controlled by billionaire businessman Mukesh Ambani, has significant exposure to the financial system of the United States, where it operates subsidiaries linked to its oil and telecom businesses, among others. Additional Venezuela-related sanctions are possible in the future, as U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has not yet tried to prevent companies based outside the United States from buying Venezuelan oil. Reliance said it had been transparent with U.S. authorities and provided detailed feedback to Washington as they were formulating and adjusting policy regarding product shipments to Venezuela. "Reliance not only has complied with US sanctions laws, but also has done its best to adjust its dealings with Venezuela on a voluntary basis to reflect the ongoing changes in US policy," the statement added. Reliance reiterated that it has stopped shipments of diluent naphtha to Venezuela, and has reduced its purchases of Venezuelan crude oil to well below its contracted levels. In 2012, Reliance signed a 15-year deal to buy between 300,000 to 400,000 bpd of heavy crude from PDVSA. Ship tracking data show that Reliance's average purchases from Venezuela were less than 300,000 bpd in 2018 and in the first two months of this year. Mukesh Ambani's brotherly gesture is a ray of hope for Anil Ambani Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sent a letter to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan, greeting people of the neighbouring country on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia, official sources said Friday. The prime minister, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Received msg from PM Modi: "I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence" - Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 22, 2019 Pakistan's Prime Minister Khan, in a tweet, welcome Modi's message and said the time has come to begin a comprehensive dialogue between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including Kashmir. "I welcome PM Modi's message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people," Khan tweeted. I welcome PM Modi's message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people. - Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 22, 2019 Modi's message to Khan came in the midst of severe strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the Pulwama attack and the subsequent air strikes by India on a JeM terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot. Significantly, India Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission here to mark Pakistan's National Day, objecting to invites extended to several separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir for the event. The official sources said the prime minister sends a customary message on National Days to other heads of state and government and added that his message to Khan highlighted the importance of a terror-free South asia. They further said it was an unsigned letter which goes to Pakistan on its National Day as a standard diplomatic practice. Such letters are sent to all countries with whom India has diplomatic relations. Earlier, Khan also tweeted PM Modi's message. "Received msg from PM Modi: 'I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence'," Khan said. Pakistani envoy Sohail Mahmood, in an address at the reception here, said Pakistan and India need to consolidate the process of de-escalation and stabilise the ties against further shocks, hoping that the "long winter" in bilateral relations would come to an early end. He said both the countries should act with "wisdom" to normalise ties, asserting that "coercive measures" have not worked in the past and will not work in the future. The envoy said a key takeaway from recent developments was that a lack of engagement creates "dangerous vacuum and serious risks" for relations between the two neighbours, adding Pakistan has "turned a corner" in its fight against the scourge of terrorism. He said the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, return of the two High Commissioners to their respective missions, and bilateral meetings on the Kartarpur Corridor "are steps in a positive direction". Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian Air Force fighter jets bombed terror group JeM's training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan on February 26. Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations the next day. However, the IAF thwarted their plans. The Indian strike on the JeM camp came 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed. Also Read: Sebi bars Bhoruka Aluminium, 4 others for five years from securities market for GDR manipulation Also Read: Sebi issues norms for valuation of below investment grade debt securities : Mutual funds Jet Airways, on the verge of going belly-up, has suspended operations on as many as 13 more international routes till end-April even as it grounded seven more planes due to non-payment of rentals, taking the number of such aircraft to 54. Besides, the airline has also reduced frequencies on seven other overseas routes, mostly from Delhi and Mumbai, according to airline sources. "... an additional seven aircraft including two planes of JetLite, have been grounded due to non-payment of amounts outstanding to lessors under their respective lease agreements," the airline said in a filing to the stock exchanges late evening Friday. The company said that as mentioned earlier, it is actively engaged with all its aircraft lessors and is regularly providing them with updates on the efforts taken to improve the liquidity. Earlier, sources said routes where services have been temporarily withdrawn include Pune-Singapore (seven a week), which was launched with much fanfare late last December, and Pune-Abu Dhabi (seven flights a week). Jet Airways has already suspended services on the Mumbai-Manchester route. Gasping for funds and no bailout on the horizon, the Naresh Goyal-controlled airline has now reduced its operations to one-fourth from over 600 daily flights earlier, with just one-third of its 119 fleet being operational. The airline has discontinued services from Delhi to Abu Dhabi (nine a week), Dammam (14 weekly), Dhaka (11), Hong Kong and Riyadh (seven each a week) up to April 30, said the airline source. Besides, the airline has also suspended services on the Bangalore-Singapore route, where it flies twice daily, till April 30. The flights which have been suspended from Mumbai for this period include services to Abu Dhabi (12 weekly), Bahrain (4-7 weekly), and Dammam (14 weekly). These services will remain suspended till April 30, as per the source. Similarly, flights on the Mumbai-Hong Kong (7 weekly) route will also not be operated between March 23 and April 30, while the Kolkata-Dhaka services have also been suspended till April 30. In addition to this, services from Delhi and Mumbai to Kathmandu, Bangkok, Doha, Kuwait and Singapore have been also reduced significantly. Why SBI is going out of its way to save Jet Airways Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia on April 8, 2019 the president's office said in a statement on Saturday, TASS reports. "It is expected that our president will visit Russia on April 8, 2019," the communiqu says. news, latest-news Ta Moko is the traditional Maori art of marking the skin. It is very different from a tattoo and is considered a great cultural privilege. The National Gallery's Curator, Pacific Arts, Crispin Howarth, says, "A tattoo in our culture is something you go to a shop for and acquire with money. "Moko is something you receive when your family, community, everyone think that you're ready to receive." Howarth curated Maori Markings: Ta Moko. The exhibition, which opened at the gallery on Saturday, features paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, sculptures and other works depicting moko from the 18th century until modern times. Ta moko was outlawed in 1907 by the New Zealand governments Tohunga Suppression Act that repressed the spiritual and educational role of Maori experts (tohunga) and Maori cultural practices. But, Howarth said, the law faded into disuse and the 1990s saw a resurgence in Ta moko. On Friday, the exhibition's launch was marked with a series of cross-cultural ceremonies. An Indigenous smoking ceremony and welcome to country was followed by Maori incantations and song. The New Zealand High Commissioner to Australia, Dame Annette King called for a minute's silence in memory of the victims of the Christchurch silence and the Christchurch Response, a declaration of compassion, kindness and inclusion, was read aloud by all. Derek Lardelli, one of the New Zealand delegation, has been one of many Ta Moko artists for more than 50 years. He began when he was 14 and is still working. "I do more than 100 each year," he said. Traditionally made with a sharp chisel known as uhi - though now often done with tattoo equipment - ta moko marks a person with unique patterns on any part of the body. It's a combination of traditional designs and artistic expression. Lardelli said he would talk to a recipient about such matters as their geneology, occupation and family before setting to work on a design that reflected the person's background and wishes. "You want to know the thing they really want to respect." Lardelli said after delivering an incantation to put them both at ease, he began marking the body. Once people are chosen for ta moko they can get as many designs as they want, sometimes covering most of their bodies over time. But while facial moko are probably the most familiar kind, Lardelli said these were restricted: only certain highly respected people were entitled to these. Lardelli received a moko when he was 15 - a year after he began the art. He wanted to honour his family with it. Where is Lardelli's moko? "Hidden." Maori Markings: Ta Moko is on at the National Gallery of Australia from March 23 to August 25. Admission is free. nga.gov.au. /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/cad6e101-b9dc-41ae-af02-a7840bd07f32/r0_190_4099_2506_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg The European Union and several countries have launched an anti-corruption investigation against the Ukrainian leader, Petro Poroshenko, presidential candidate Yulia Tymoshenko announced. According to her, the investigation has already begun. The investigation is conducted by three parties - the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States. "The European Union has launched an anti-corruption investigation against President Poroshenko," Tymoshenko said, adding that a Cyprus court is also involved in the investigation. news, latest-news The son of Italian migrants, Dr Antonio Di Dio had never really dwelled upon the fact both his parents came to Australia by boat. But a recent appointment has made him think more about his familys journey to, and life in, Australia. He is the federal Australian Medical Associations nominee to be its representative on the panel of clinicians to review government refusal to transfer refugees in offshore detention to Australia for treatment. Dr Di Dio, the associations ACT branch president and a Canberra GP, said providing adequate medical care to refugees in Australias care was a matter of basic human rights and dignity. The panel was a hard fought political win - part of the so called Medevac bill - which doctors and groups like the Australian Medical Association were key to. The bill was intended to get sick refugees on Nauru or Manus Island the medical care they needed in Australia. The most important thing is to identify and treat any health issues in people who live in or are looked after by Australia, Dr Di Dio says. It is zero to do with politics, I have no interest in that whatsoever. It's simply about the physical and mental health of people. We were one of the most influential bodies last year in getting the kids off Nauru. That course of action makes me incredibly proud." Dr Di Dio was born in Queensland, growing up as a son of two Italian migrants on a banana farm. The family moved back to Sicily, Italy, when he was very young, before returning to Australia when he was 11. He credits growing up in small country towns in Italy and Australia for his passion for general practice. My only exposure to medicine was the local GP who was and still is an unbelievably strong presence in the community, Dr Di Dio says. He and his family have lived in Canberra for about 15 years,. It is the city his wife grew up in, and they jointly run a practice in Yarralumla. Dr Di Dio has been president of the ACT branch of the association since May but had little time to settle into the new role as 2018 was one of the most tumultuous years in ACTs public health system in recent memory. The government came under intense pressure over mismanagement and bullying allegations within the health system as well as its ongoing poor performance against key performance indicators. The association in September made the decision to come out and call for a royal commission type inquiry into ACTs health system, in effect supporting the Oppositions ongoing calls for the same type of inquiry. Eventually, the government decided to settle on an independent review of ACTs public health system, which lacked the powers and protections of a board of inquiry. That was an extremely stressful and painful but it had to be done, he says. What I'm most proud of is connecting together the three disparate medical associations - [Visiting Medical Officers Association], and the AMA have over the years intersected at times and had some mutual respect but I think were working much more closely than we did before. I'm also very proud weve had a very deep review into ACT Health, I feel that review to a significant extent occurred because of combined pressure from us. The outcomes from that review are a big challenge from that as well. We want to be a part of a process that ensures accountability we have a really good relationship with government and with the opposition who we respect and we hope they will listen to us when we hold them accountable to the recommendation in their review." He says Health Minister Meegan Fitzharris must take the lead in making sure the people within ACT Health that have shown poor behaviour for years are held accountable. "In a sense, by opting for the independent review process the minister has made herself responsible for addressing these issues," he says. "While doing this raises significant challenges, in our view it needs to be done." Dr Di Dio is a fierce advocate for GPs and believes they often get an unfair rap by the media, politicians and the community more broadly. GPs and private practitioners who work in the ACT, they deserve a huge pat on the back, he says. We are one of the very few states or territories with an under supply of GPs." He said most GPs in Canberra bulk billed many patients simply because they cared for people. They are working unbelievably long hours and all they get is criticised and picked on because they charge more than the bulk billing rate, or the waiting list is so long," he says. If we bulk billed all our patients we would be getting negative income. He said the low Medicare rebate rate meant it was not financially viable for most GPs and practices to bulk bill all patients. [The rebate is] the same value that bulk billing was when introduced by the Hawke government," he says. Dr Di Dio says he wants to use his remaining time as president to keep advocating for community health. "I've always been proud to be part of the AMA being an organisation that was extremely unpopular and picked on when we said smoking was bad for you," he said. "When I was a kid I loved To Kill a Mocking Bird and 12 Angry Men - I think we have those same values, it's about doing what's right." /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/8dec4639-0080-4b5e-abb3-c99575b03c65/r0_264_5000_3089_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg news, latest-news More than 1100 students have called on the ACT government to reinstate a bus route that travels through the Australian National University, amid fears a lack of transport would make it difficult for students to travel to and from the campus. Disability advocates have also raised concerns about cutting the route, which travels between Belconnen and Woden and services the Canberra Institute of Technology campus at Bruce and the Calvary hospital. Madhumitha Janagaraja, who has an immune condition and joint pain, lives on campus and has been using the Number 3 bus for the past three years. She is also ANU student association disability officer. Unable to walk the one kilometre journey to the closest alternative bus in the city, Ms Janagaraja said she was unsure how she would get around Canberra when the Number 3 route was axed next month under the government's new bus network. "I have very limited energy, I already struggle to get groceries, or go to see medical [specialists] and feed myself and I just think what am I going to do?" she said. "At the moment I have to walk 300 metres to the bus stop and there's still a lot of pain in that. What I'm most disappointed about is they haven't given me any other option." A petition calling on the ACT government to reinstate the Number 3 bus route or find alternative transport was tabled in the Legislative Assembly on Thursday. Launched by the ANU Postgraduate and Research Students' Association, which said it had not been properly consulted on the change, the petition has been referred to a standing committee for consideration. Liberal Candice Burch told the Assembly a 19-year-old female student who lives on the university campus would have to reconsider working late at night without a bus to drop her outside her college. Cutting the route would affect the most vulnerable students in the university's growing on-campus population, she said. Liberal Elizabeth Kikkert, who sponsored the petition, said the Number 3 bus had run since 1980 and the university had "grown up" around the route. Disability advocates are concerned the loss of bus services from the campus of the Canberra Institute of Technology in Bruce and the Calvary Hospital, which the Number 3 provides, would prevent students from accessing education and healthcare. The chief executive of Women with Disabilities ACT, Clare Moore, said the hill between Haydon Drive and the institute's campus was steep and paths were in poor condition. "It's further to walk but it's also that if you can't walk and you're using a mobility device, it's a serious problem because of the gradient," Moore said. "There's systemic issues around access to education for all people with disabilities, and where we've been making progress this is a real step backwards." Moore said retaining the route would solve the problems with transport to all three locations. The number of signatures on the petition was in line with the community outcry Women with Disabilities ACT had heard from speaking to students and other members of the community. The president of the university's Postgraduate and Research Students' Association, Zyl Hovenga-Wauchope, said the petition showed people knew a bus route through a university was a good idea. "I'd hope from the outcome of how today went, that any committee looking at the merits of [the route] would be swayed that it's a good thing," he said. A Transport Canberra spokesman said the directorate was working with the Canberra Institute of Technology and Calvary to provide a transport option for patients and students. Transport Canberra has redesigned the public transport network to integrate with light rail. The new network begins on April 29. /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/3c75b667-ad66-46b0-900f-53729f923347/r0_333_5413_3391_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg news, latest-news The annual Cancer Council ACT Relay for Life experienced a massive swell in participants for this year's event, demonstrating the passion and commitment in the capital to fight cancer. Dozens of school groups, businesses and even the military entered teams, each one with colourful themes and decorations to help get them around the Australian Institute of Sport athletics track in style. Relay for Life teams must have at least one person walking or running around the track at any given time for 24 hours. The event also includes local bands, food stalls, games and a ceremony with more than 1500 candles this year, to give participants a moment to stop and remember someone they may have lost to cancer. Cancer Council ACT executive manager Belinda Barnier said participants were up on the last two or three years, with anywhere between 800 and 1000 people walking on Saturday afternoon. She wanted to see numbers double for next year. "Only with the gravity of numbers will we spread the awareness of cancer and the message of an early diagnosis," Ms Barnier said. "[The participants] have the power to change the future." Ms Barnier said 1600 people in Canberra were diagnosed with cancer each year, at a rate of 31 people each week, meaning demand for cancer services was only increasing. She said all money raised would stay in the Canberra region and help bring more services to the capital. Taking part on Saturday was Lizzie Christiansen Young, who said there was a desperate need in Canberra for more extensive oncology services for children. Her daughter, Freyja Christiansen, 7, was diagnosed two-and-a-half years ago with clear cell sarcoma. Since then, she has also developed HLH, a condition where her immune system attacks her healthy organs because of her cancer treatment. Ms Christiansen Young said she and Freyja took part to support Cancer Council ACT in its bid to bring more patient support services to the territory. During 2016 and 2017, after the diagnosis, the family had to spend a combined 10 months in Sydney for treatment. In 2018, there were three lots of three-month visits to Melbourne. Ms Christiansen Young said she understood having to travel for particularly complicated procedures, but often Freyja was required to travel interstate for a 30-minute infusion treatment, something an adult could get at Canberra Hospital. She said she had been forced to contact charities and sell possessions to help fund treatments because health funds provided little and Freyja did not qualify for the National Disablity Insurance Scheme. One of the biggest concerns, Ms Christiansen Young said, was the impact on children's mental health due to a lack of support when they were ripped out of school and their family homes to get treatment interstate. The Relay for Life event was also important for Freyja, her mother said, to remember friends she had made who were also battling cancer. Of a group of 17 children Freyja had become close with since diagnosis, she was the only one left alive. She also walked carrying a scarf given to her by her friend, and cancer advocate, Connie Johnson. /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/4879db5d-c639-4df7-b36b-3a59e41858f3/r84_0_5024_2791_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg news, latest-news "Doesn't matter", "all the money's in Sydney": these are just some of the views of Queanbeyan punters have as the region around Canberra heads to the polls on Saturday. Two of the seats up for grabs across the ACT border are Goulburn and Monaro, the former generally regarded as a safe Liberal seat and the other considered a bellwether; whoever takes it, tends to take parliament. Monaro's incumbent is Nationals MP and NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro, who is fighting for his third term against multiple parties, including Country Labor's Bryce Wilson. But in the Tourist Hotel on Queanbeyan's Monaro Street, James Moffat and Chris "Sharky" Heap are sceptical of what anyone will bring to the border town. "All the money's in Sydney," Mr Moffat said. "The rest of us don't get a look in." Mr Moffat said with the talk on how immigrants were supposedly bogging down Sydney's infrastructure, if the major parties invested in serious infrastructure outside of Sydney, people would flock to the country. Mr Heap just sees it as "the same bullshit" and said the biggest issues for him were a lack of affordable housing and a lack of staff at Queanbeyan Hospital. At Revolution CD, Canberra man and owner Glen Stewart said while he doesn't get to vote on Saturday, Labor's proposed changes to payroll tax might hurt his one NSW shop. But he said while he liked Queanbeyan, the town had been "dead for 10 years". Local hairdresser Maddie Corbin said she would just look "to wing it" on election day. "I don't pay that much attention," Ms Corbin said. "It doesn't really matter." When asked what needed fixing around Queanbeyan she pointed to the lack of local schools, a lack of parking on the main drag, Monaro Street and the empty shopfronts. "They need to do something about that," she said. She said more needed to be done to attract shoppers and stop them from driving through to Canberra. While there had been recent changes to Monaro Street, including planter boxes, Ms Corbin said nobody cared. Ms Corbin said Mr Barilaro seems nice enough - she had seen him on TV and posters across town - but hadn't heard anything about his Labor opponent, Mr Wilson. Mr Barilaro said he was feeling good about Saturday. "We never take anything for granted in Monaro and my team and I will be working hard right until polls close," he said. Mr Wilson, handing out how-to-vote cards on Crawford Street said he believed he'd run Labor's biggest campaign in Monaro. "We'll see where it goes," he said. "We've put everything in." Over in Goulburn, Liberal candidate Wendy Tuckerman is hoping to inherit the seat from Pru Goward, who will be retired as of Saturday. "I think it's going to be very close," Ms Tuckerman said. She said whatever happens on Saturday, she's looking forward to spending some downtime with her family on Sunday. Labor's candidate for Goulburn, Ursula Stephens, said she'll be looking to celebrate a few family birthdays on Sunday but otherwise is ready for Saturday night. "I'm all fired up and ready to go," she said. "Neither party will take this seat for granted again." /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/661a0953-0a87-420a-9fdf-45eb924f7fe7/r0_141_2403_1499_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg news, latest-news "How do you know when a politician is lying?" the old joke went. "You see his lips are moving." One rarely needs a polygraph, encyclopaedic memory or deep forensic talent to tell when most politicians are being economical with the verite. Some have big tells, which would forever disqualify them from a serious game of poker. Rates of eye blinking, for example. Shifts to bluster and dissembling, often prefaced by the claim of being very offended by any suggestion of being less than completely straightforward with the public, or the questioner. Running for cover, initial threats (quickly withdrawn) of defamation writs, and efforts to parse old, now embarrassing, statements in a search for a proposition that can be claimed to sit comfortably with diametrically opposing assertions of what was said or done. In an earlier life, Scott Morrison was a marketer, salesman and spin doctor; steeped in the arts of polishing turds, and of saying black is white and appearing to believe it. And well able, too, at reinventing history and past statements on the run, with different stresses and emphases, discreet omissions and generous borrowings of blather and attempts to avoid questions by making allegations against the other side. Another tell, on most issues, is the pretence of passion for the matter at issue, the suggestion that some matter of morality or principle is involved, or pleading his public character the well-known fact, as he believes it, that everyone knows him as a dinky-di bloke who would never mislead or deceive indeed, a man whose word is his bond. Politicians rarely tell complete lies, least of all on matters that can be checked or for which there were witnesses or records. "Lie" is an unparliamentary word, unless it is contained, in effect, in a motion of no confidence. Far better for the opponent, or commentator, to use words such as dissembling, dissimulating, prevaricating or disingenuous when a politician seeks to convey a wrong impression or avoid answering a question. A shifty or unreliable politician may hide their mendacity behind deceit, fabrication on confabulation, or by rehearsed counter-attack that simply ignores the questions but makes imputations against the other. A safer tactic can be types of evasion, quibbling equivocation, deliberate obfuscation, being deliberately unclear, or tergiversation. There was a type of misleading impression that Malcolm Fraser specialised in 40 years ago, when he would make a seemingly strong and positive statement with an unstressed caveat. If things did not turn out as Fraser had hoped, the caveat or condition would suddenly be stressed, and the statement made to seem to convey an intention the exact opposite of that originally conveyed and stressed. Morrison is a professional politician, one who brings calculation into almost everything he says or does. He has never been able to see as far through a brick wall as John Howard, but he weighs, measures and counts almost everything that happens in terms of political advantage, generally of the short term. He enjoys his job generally except when caught whopping, when his body language almost completely gives him away but there's not a great deal of emotion in how he does it. Much of the enthusiasm and ebullience is fake, or confected; he seems rarely genuinely relaxed, especially with his colleagues. That is in part because he cannot lead them intellectually, with ideas or general conversation. He is not a reader of anything substantial, and it shows. On almost any subject, he could sometimes has argued the exact opposite proposition with the same outward appearance of self-belief, sincerity and sneering. Even after a bad day, he can sleep well in the hope of a better one tomorrow, bounce back like a blow-up fat controller with sand in his feet, or, after some relaxation, rearrange the facts and persuade himself he had a great victory. It happens almost every week, with or without Parliament sitting. Every day, he diminishes a little. Certainly, every day since he became Prime Minister, though, in truth, his time as treasurer set the theme for an essential inauthenticity. This week, it mattered, and he looked much diminished on the national and international stage as he struggled to represent the feelings of most Australians about the appalling tragedy in New Zealand. Morrison was, of course, not in a beauty contest with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Nor was it a zero-sum game. But Ardern's leadership, confidence and humility could not have better illustrated Morrison's embarrassing failure to rise to the task of leading the nation. In another context, the cynic, or the partisan, might have at least been able to take a malicious pleasure from the way he was undercutting and undermining his own claim to his position. In truth, however, he was diminishing and undermining Australia, and most of its decent citizens, with every pompous word. His want of feel for the task at hand was a natural consequence of his own role, and the role of senior ministers in his government, in dividing the nation around Islam, in race-baiting in elections such as the last Victorian election strongly repudiated by voters and in painting boat people on Nauru or Manus as rapists, murderers and terrorists. One cannot unite and embrace while simultaneously demonising and disgracing. Morrison himself has been flinging the mud for so long that he cannot say his hands are clean. Nor does that judgment, or opinion, depend on leaks of what Morrison is said to have said at a meeting seven years ago, though his claim that he said the opposite of what unnamed colleagues told several journalists is hardly convincing. No one could accuse him of wanting or inciting the massacre in New Zealand, but he and his side in politics must take their share of responsibility for creating the atmosphere that made it possible. His claim that he was in fact a leader in promoting religious tolerance and acceptance of Muslim settlers would be risible if it were not, on his record, so contemptible. Nor can his predecessors Malcolm Turnbull, Tony Abbott and even Howard escape their share of the blame. Generally, Turnbull did not stray too far from his decency gene, but he sat comfortably by, even occasionally throwing a stick into the fire, as Peter Dutton, The Australian and Murdoch tabloids tried to whip up a moral and physical panic about African gangs in Melbourne. One might, however, say of all three that each has been capable of saying gracious and unifying things at moments of local, national and international tragedy, as often as not without the help of a speechwriter. Morrison simply seems to lack an instinct for the unifying, the appropriate and the empathetic. On recent occasions (including Julie Bishop's retirement), Bill Shorten crafted a better, more thoughtful and kinder speech, with an insight or a phrase likely to endure. Like Kevin Rudd, Morrison has a cack ear for an Australian phrase, and the only one he will have as a legacy the so-called "Canberra bubble" serves primarily as a vehicle to refuse to answer inconvenient, but perfectly reasonable, questions. It's an interesting comparison, because Shorten, like Morrison, also has authenticity problems with the electorate. By now, his victory at the coming election seems almost inevitable. Yet it seems plain that this is not so much voters embracing Labor or its leaders as in rejecting the Coalition. The Coalition has tried to run a scare campaign around Shortern's Shorten and the idea that he has some diabolical hidden agenda. That seems to have failed, so far. Yet even as continuing disunity, signs of arrogance, loss of inspiration and the consequences of policy failures particularly on climate change, water and the environment plague Morrison's government, the evidence suggests voters have not warmed to Shorten. Nonetheless, he has led a remarkably united team, which is promoting policies and agendas rather than seeking to make itself a small target. Shorten gives a better stump speech, either in Parliament or from the back of a truck, than a formal one, but has already acquired some of the gravitas, detachment and fire he will need if he is to establish himself as prime minister. He will not arrive, like Gough Whitlam, Bob Hawke or Rudd, as an exceptional messiah leading his troops out of the wilderness, based on his own personal appeal to voters. The risk that poses is that a Shorten government, dominated by the same style of management as the Morrison (Turnbull or Abbott) government, will succumb to many of the same problems, not least in winning and holding voters' respect and trust. Sooner or later, the government itself will trip up as likely as not because of some event out of its control. Sooner or later probably sooner most ministers will make mistakes calling into question their judgment, honesty or competence. Initially, perhaps, a defeated and dispirited opposition will be unable to capitalise. But a ministry that becomes arrogant, comfortable in power, or inclined, as someone once called it, to treat government as though the party held it on freehold not leasehold, will again show the sort of bluster, deception and obfuscation that we now see. Such bluster is usually obvious. Weary voters will begin to think the new lot are taking them for granted, they will stop listening to the spin and the explanations, and, no doubt, politicians' reputation will fall even further, if that is possible. I've always thought the key to getting out of the bind in which successive federal governments have found themselves is to loosen some of the discipline; admit or concede that there are differences of opinion and emphasis within the ministry about appropriate policies and programs. Sometimes even admit that cabinet canvassed alternatives the broad scope of which is disclosed before settling on one, to which, after extensive discussion, the whole ministry was now committed. Governments have increasingly tried to control the flow of ideas, and the communication of policies, or potential policies, to voters. They do this even as they proclaim that they lead open, accountable and transparent administrations. Such is the pressure of the discipline that any leak, particularly from within government, is automatically proof of major disunity, any deviation from the standard script in explaining or defending policy is proclaimed as a split. It doesn't need to be like this, even in a Westminster system of collective responsibility of ministers. In countries such as Britain, Canada and New Zealand, there is a more relaxed approach to the policymaking process, with ministers willing to admit that a policy did not fall from heaven as self-evidently the only thing to do. Ministers can sometimes admit mistakes even volunteer them before being caught out, without a major scandal looming and without suggestions of a cover-up. A focus on better policy and better administration must admit the notion of learning from mistakes, and the dangers of refusing to admit them, or to make changes, lest one become vulnerable to criticism. In the early 1980s, the Hawke government was elected, inter alia, with a mandate to challenge the building of hydroelectric dams on the Gordon River in Tasmania. The then attorney-general, Gareth Evans, ordered the air force to fly an F-111 reconnaissance mission over the Gordon and Franklin rivers for photos it could use in the High Court case. The Tasmanian government responded as if there had been an armed invasion of the state, and attacked Evans (now nicknamed Biggles). Evans could have blocked the ball for days, loyally supported by ministers in both houses denying any wrongdoing, introducing much distraction and bringing orderly government to a halt. Instead, he owned up to an error of judgment. He pleaded the streaker's excuse: "It seemed like a good idea at the time." Everyone laughed, Evans was forgiven (if never quite allowed to forget) and the government was out of trouble. Voters might note there seem to have been no such errors under any of the past six prime ministers at least ones to which ministers or prime ministers will admit. Each crisis is a call to circle wagons and defend the indefensible, ever with a partisan edge. Prime ministers, ministers and now bureaucrats at least those in the Department of Home Affairs must sing from the same hymn sheet, unwilling ever to concede that the relevant leader could have been wrong. Great webs of lies are necessary to shroud the guilty and the negligent. In due course, prime ministers are spending all of their credit and credibility defending the indefensible. Ask Morrison. Jack Waterford is a former editor of The Canberra Times. jwaterfordcanberra@gmail.com /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/450400b2-ca64-4a03-bc75-b1e7505ebc38/r51_0_2522_1396_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg The Chinese Development Bank will provide a $ 20 million loan to the state-owned company "Partner Fund". The relevant announcement was posted on the fund's website. It is clarified that the loan will be allocated without the provision of state guarantees. "For the state-owned companies operating in Georgia, this is a precedent," the report reads. The money will go to the investment portfolio of the fund and subsequently will be used to finance various projects. Our Promise: Welcome to Care2, the world's largest community for good. Here, you'll find over 45 million like-minded people working towards progress, kindness, and lasting impact. Care2 Stands Against: bigots, racists, bullies, science deniers, misogynists, gun lobbyists, xenophobes, the willfully ignorant, animal abusers, frackers, and other mean people. If you find yourself aligning with any of those folks, you can move along, nothing to see here. Care2 Stands With: humanitarians, animal lovers, feminists, rabble-rousers, nature-buffs, creatives, the naturally curious, and people who really love to do the right thing. You are our people. You Care. We Care2. Photo: The Canadian Press Jennifer Lopez, left, and Alex Rodriguez arrive at the Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Barack Obama is feeling the love about the engagement of Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez. A-Rod shared a congratulatory handwritten note Thursday on Twitter he received from the former president and his wife, Michelle. Obama wrote: "After 26 years together, we can say that whatever challenges life may bring, sharing them with someone you love makes it all better." Rodriguez tweeted the note "means the world to us." The former Yankees shortstop and the "World of Dance" judge got engaged earlier this month. It will be Lopez's fourth marriage and Rodriguez's second. Each has two children from previous marriages. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is paying his first working visit to Turkestan, the Facebook account of the President's press secretary Berik Kurmangali reads, Kazinform reports. The President is expected to tour the regional centre, to survey industrial and social facilities and meet with the general public. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have declared a final military victory over Daesh terrorists, Sputnik reports. "Baghouz has been liberated. The military victory against Daesh has been accomplished," Mustafa Bali, head of the SDF media office, wrote on Twitter. The SDF has been fighting to capture Baghouz, an enclave north of the Euphrates River near the Iraqi border, for weeks. Earlier, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders declared that the entire territory of Syria has been "100 per cent eliminated" from Daesh* terrorists. In turn, the Syrian envoy to the UN called the White House 's announcement of victory over Daesh a 'bluff'. *Daesh (ISIS/IS/ISIL) is a terrorist group which has been banned by Russia Yesterday Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received newly appointed US Ambassador to Armenia, Mrs. Lynne Tracy, News.am reported citing the PM's office. Nikol Pashinyan congratulated Lynne Tracy on assuming the office of U.S. Ambassador to Armenia and wished her success in her career. The PM stressed that the Armenian Government attaches great importance to the development and expansion of partnership with the United States, including in political and economic sectors. The head of the government noted that Armenia is moving constantly toward developing and reinforcing democracy, fighting against corruption, protection of human rights, ensuring freedom of speech. In this pre-context he attached big significance to the implementation of joint projects and cooperation with the US. In 1950 there were 12 urban areas in the United States that had one million or more citizens. In 2010, 41 had more than one million in population and this number is projected to grow to 53 by 2030 (Source: United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division). And currently more than 85 percent of our population is clustered into cities. Of the ten most populated metropolitan regions touching seven or eight states, all went overwhelmingly for the Democrat in the 2016 presidential election. Now Senator Elizabeth Warren is hopping around saying almost anything to distinguish her candidacy from the profusion of others running for president. Sandwiched between her promises of trillion dollar giveaways is a clever ruse to abolish the electoral college. It will always draw rousing cheers from her audiences. That is because a few know it would mean Democrats would be elected president into the next millennium. People like Rep Steve Cohen say by selecting the president by popular vote it would be more democratic, but what he really means is it would elect more Democrats. Meanwhile the majority of those wanting to eliminate the electoral college dont have a clue why we have it and how it protects the minority from dominance by a few regions. This is who they are counting on to back their crafty scheme. We have the electoral college because we are a representative republic of fifty separate states that work symbiotically together to form a union. We have the Senate for the same reason. Recently Ive also heard Democrats questioning the makeup of the Senate complaining that California has the same number of senators as Wyoming. Well, wake up and smell the Skinny Latte Californians, a representative republic is what we were given so tyrants would have an almost impossible path to power. Today that includes an equal obstacle for dominance by one political party. But, like the Eloi in the Time Machine, when Warren sounds the siren, her supporters fall in lockstep with whatever silly thing she tosses out. The Founding Fathers experienced the persecution of tyrants. Their parents and grandparents experienced even more of the evils of absolute power living in Europe. They were subject to forced military service to fight the tyrants never ending wars over territory, excessive taxation and even confiscation of their land and livestock. They knew how nearly impossible it was to stop them. So they gave the new nation the electoral college as a way to elect temporary leaders. And its worked just fine since 1788. We only hear whining when some sore losers campaign failed to take into account the electoral college. Do we want the big cities deciding who will be our president? Look at the disasters many of those cities are in: violent crime, failed schools, potential bankruptcy. What party has controlled them for the last half century or more? These people make grand promises of prosperity but often deliver poverty just like Venezuela. And doing away with the electoral college would allow those Democrat controlled big cities to dominate the presidential elections. Dont let anyone tell you the electoral college is unconstitutional-a tool they often employ. What the constitution clearly permits is not unconstitutional. Cohen knows that and thats why he tries to link the electoral college with racism. He hopes to make those defending the electoral college appear to be defending racism. Dont be fooled by that one. Do we want leaders who trick people into supporting a sinister plan to abandon something that has helped make this nation great? Tell Elizabeth Warren and Steve Cohen we know what they are up to and we dont want any part of it. Ralph Miller * * * I'm afraid I have a different view than my good friend Ralph Miller in regards to the Electoral College. As an independent voter, I have no ax to grind regarding the last presidential election or any previous presidential election for that matter. I've heard many people explain how the Electoral College was created to prevent large states from controlling elections. However, they are thinking of something commonly referred to as the "Great Compromise". This was the agreement to establish our bicameral legislature where representation in the House of Representatives is based on the population of each state, and representation in the Senate is two senators per state. This was a method to make sure that small states' interests where equally represented and not merely cast aside by the large states' representatives. The Electoral College was established because the framers of the Constitution simply did not trust the American electorate of the late eighteenth century! There was good reason for them having this attitude. The American public as a whole in the late 1700's were poorly educated and usually unaware of how government worked and the important issues of the day. The electors of that day could vote for any person receiving votes when the Electoral College voted in January following a presidential election. Currently, over 20 states have passed laws requiring electors to vote for the candidate receiving the majority of the popular vote in their state. The Electoral College was a last ditch body that could override the election of, for lack of a better term, an "American Hitler". In addition, the founding fathers further restricted the ability of the common man to vote. To qualify in most states a voter had to be white, male, at least 25, and own land. An additional restriction was created by establishing the voting day as Tuesday. Most workers in those days couldn't afford to give up wages to go vote. Today, no other western civilized country votes during the week. Voting is conducted usually on Saturday, or Saturday and Sunday because most people don't have to lose a day's work to vote. The President of the United States is the only office elected nationally. It is also the only indirect election we have where people vote then another group actually decides who wins the election. Additionally, why should our votes here in Tennessee count less than people's votes in other states? Tennessee has 11 electoral votes, two senators and nine representatives, and a population of just over 6,000,000. Each elector represents 600,000 citizens. Wyoming has three electors, two senators and one representative, and a population of 600,000. Each elector represents only 200,000 citizens. Why should our Tennessee votes only count 1/3 as much as someone voting in Wyoming? The basic question is do we believe in the concept of one person one vote? I always have! Ken Barker * * * I think we should give every county in this country a vote, I think that would make us all equal. There are 3,141 counties including parishes, organized boroughs, census areas, independent cities and the District of Columbia. If you are wondering about the last election Donald Trump won 3,084 counties and Clinton won 57. This country is over 3.7 million square miles and the 57 counties that voted for Clinton are 319 square miles. Does that really seem like a majority of our country voted for Clinton? Damon Sledge * * * In response to Mr. Sledge, the numbers quoted on counties are entirely incorrect. According to fact-check.org, Clinton won at least 487 counties. In fact, Clinton won 27 counties in Texas and 31 in Georgia, which exceeds the quoted number of 57. The idea that the 57 quoted counties totaled 319 square miles is absurd because that would mean that these counties each averaged only 5.6 square miles. Los Angeles County alone covers 4,751 square miles with a population of over 10 million, which is more than 41 states. I think the Electoral College serves a purpose because it does decide the presidential election when no one gets a majority of the popular vote, which happens often due to third party candidates. If elections required a majority of the popular vote we would often be in a run-off situation, which would be difficult to implement for many reasons. However, I struggle with the idea that the vote of people in populous states, like Democratic California and Republican Texas count proportionally less than a voter in a less populous state. Also, with the Electoral College, a Democratic voter here in Tennessee must feel like his or her vote doesnt count in a presidential election because the state is overwhelmingly Republican and its winner take all on the electoral votes. The same thing must hold true for a Republican voter in a state like California, which votes heavily Democratic. Perhaps electoral votes should be voted in same proportions that the state voted. I dont have all of the answers, but it sure seems like a problem that in two of the last three presidential elections with no incumbent, the winner got fewer votes from Americans than the loser. How can someone get the most votes and lose? Im not advocating for a Republican or Democratic position, just thinking about it from a common sense standpoint. David Groves Here is the upcoming City Council agenda: I. Call to Order. II. Pledge of Allegiance/Invocation (Councilwoman Coonrod). III. Minute Approval. IV. Special Presentation. Proclamation National Vietnam War Veterans Day By Councilman Chip Henderson V. Ordinances Final Reading: (None) VI. Ordinances First Reading: LEGAL a. An ordinance amending Chattanooga City Code, Chapter 2, Article II, Division 2, Section 2-49, relating to Legal Liability Claims. (Sponsored by Chairman Smith)PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATIONPublic Worksb. An ordinance amending Chattanooga City Code, Part II, Chapter 4, Article II, Rules,Regulations, Criteria, Standards, Section 4-41, Rules Adopted and Chapter 20, ArticleII, Health Nuisances, by adding Sections 20-29 through 20-32, relating to NoxiousOdors and Nuisances. (Sponsored by Chairman Smith)An ordinance amending Chattanooga City Code, Part II, Chapter 4, Article II, Rules,Regulations, Criteria, Standards, Section 4-41, Rules Adopted and Chapter 20, ArticleII, Health Nuisances, by adding Sections 20-29 through 20-32, relating to NoxiousOdors and Nuisances. (Alternate Version)VII. Resolutions:ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTa. A resolution authorizing the Administrator for the Department of Economic andCommunity Development to accept a grant sponsored by the Footprint Foundation tosupport the mentorship component of the Public Art Divisions City Artist Program,in the amount of $30,000.00.b. A resolution authorizing the Administrator for the Department of Economic andCommunity Development to accept the donation of funds raised by the CommunityFoundation of Greater Chattanooga for the Fallen Five Memorial Fund to the City ofChattanooga for use in constructing the Fallen Five Memorial, Wreath of Honor byShane Albritton and Norman Lee in the Tennessee Riverpark.c. A resolution to confirm the Mayors appointments to the Chattanooga Public ArtCommission.FINANCEd. A resolution authorizing the redemption of certain City of Chattanooga, TennesseeGeneral Obligation Bonds.VIII. Purchases.IX. Other Business.X. Committee Reports.XI. Recognition of Persons Wishing to Address the Council on Non-Agenda Matters.XII. Adjournment.TUESDAY, APRIL 2, 2019CITY COUNCIL AGENDA6:00 PM1. Call to Order.2. Pledge of Allegiance/Invocation (Councilman Henderson).3. Minute Approval.4. Special Presentation.5. Ordinances Final Reading:LEGALa. An ordinance amending Chattanooga City Code, Chapter 2, Article II, Division 2,Section 2-49, relating to Legal Liability Claims. (Sponsored by Chairman Smith)PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATIONPublic Worksb. An ordinance amending Chattanooga City Code, Part II, Chapter 4, Article II, Rules,Regulations, Criteria, Standards, Section 4-41, Rules Adopted and Chapter 20, ArticleII, Health Nuisances, by adding Sections 20-29 through 20-32, relating to NoxiousOdors and Nuisances. (Sponsored by Chairman Smith)An ordinance amending Chattanooga City Code, Part II, Chapter 4, Article II, Rules,Regulations, Criteria, Standards, Section 4-41, Rules Adopted and Chapter 20, ArticleII, Health Nuisances, by adding Sections 20-29 through 20-32, relating to NoxiousOdors and Nuisances. (Alternate Version)6. Ordinances First Reading: (None)7. Resolutions:ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTa. A resolution authorizing the Administrator for the Department of Economic andCommunity Development to enter into an agreement with Judge Walter Williams toserve as a public officer and to conduct demolition hearings for a twelve (12) monthperiod, with the option to extend the agreement an additional three (3) terms oftwelve (12) months in length, for a total period not to exceed forty-eight (48) months.b. A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a First Amendment and Renewal ofLicense Agreement, in substantially the form attached, with River City Ducks, LLCfor the non-exclusive use of the Ross Landing ramp.c. A resolution to temporarily suspend the application and enforcement of theInternational Energy Conservation Code, 2012 Edition, as it applies to one and twofamily dwellings and townhouses and to instead apply and enforce the 2009 Editionof said code.GENERAL GOVERNMENTd. A resolution to amend Resolution No. 29833 adopted on March 12, 2019, adoptingnew Rules of Operation for the Chattanooga City Council.A resolution to amend Resolution No. 29833 adopted on March 12, 2019, adoptingnew Rules of Operation for the Chattanooga City Council. (Alternate Version)INFORMATION TECHNOLOGYe. A resolution authorizing the Department of Information Technology to accept, onbehalf of Brent Messer and Brian Silvenis comped registrations for the GOOGLECloud Next Conference 2019 to be held April 9, 2019 through April 11, 2019, in theamount of $1,967.00.PLANNINGf. JRD Properties, LLC/BHEE, LLC d/b/a Island Point Wine & Spirits (SpecialExceptions Permit). A resolution approving a Special Exceptions Permit for anexisting liquor store, change in ownership, located at 5987 Brainerd Road. (District6)POLICEg. A resolution authorizing the Chief of the Chattanooga Police Department to execute aone year contract with Forensic Logic, for the purpose of maintaining the CopLinkSoftware platform, as well as complementary data integration services, to be activefrom January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019, for a total cost of maintenance andservices not to exceed $39,307.00.PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATIONPublic Worksh. A resolution authorizing the award of Contract No. Y-18-002-201 to JDH Company,Inc. of Chattanooga, TN, Replacement Roofing System for Heritage HouseCommunity Center, in the amount of $167,216.20, with a contingency amount of$20,000.00, for an amount not to exceed $187,216.20. (District 4)i. A resolution authorizing the Administrator for the Department of Public Works toexecute a Paving for Pizza Agreement and to accept a monetary donation sponsoredby Dominos Pizza to fill potholes within the City, subject to certain conditions, for atotal amount not to exceed $5,000.00.j. A resolution to authorize year three (3) of a four (4) year term for the on-call blanketcontract(s) for Geo-Environmental Consulting and Construction Materials TestingServices, Contract No. E-16-007-301, with the following firms: (1) Geoservices,LLC; (2) K.S. Ware and Associates, LLC; (3) S&ME, Inc.; (4) Stantec ConsultingServices, Inc.; (5) Terracon Consultants, Inc.; and (6) Thompson Engineering, Inc.;based on the three (3) services categories of geotechnical, construction materialstesting, and environmental services that each consultant qualified for, the renewal ofthe six (6), one (1) year blanket contracts for professional services estimated at$400,000.00 total annually for all six (6) professional firms for use by alldepartments.Transportationk. A resolution authorizing the Administrator for the Department of Transportation toapply for and, if awarded, accept a grant from the Riverview Foundation forexpansion of the bike Chattanooga electric bicycle fleet, in the amount of $80,000.00.8. Purchases.9. Other Business.a. BHEE, LLC d/b/a Island Point Wine & Spirits - Certificate of Compliance(District 6)10. Committee Reports.11. Recognition of Persons Wishing to Address the Council on Non-Agenda Matters.12. Adjournment. At the Community Choices Workshops held this March at local YFD centers, students from Orchard Knob Elementary and Hardy Elementary shared their ideas for Area 3. The plan study area features 17 neighborhoods that are generally bounded by the Tennessee River at Amnicola Highway for areas below South Chickamauga Creek, to the base of Missionary Ridge, and then south to I-24 and east of Central Avenue or the rail yards. (See map at chcrpa.org/area-3-plan) A "Build-a-Block" exercise was presented by RPA staff to explore the potential for 6 focus areas that were identified by the community at the January 26th public meeting. A top issue identified by the students was safe streets and pedestrian ways. They envisioned crosswalks and more sidewalks along with park enhancements such as water features and trees. The workshops and survey cover topics related to Commercial Centers, New Development & Jobs, Housing Options, Parks, Greenways & Open Space and Transportation. Workshop participants also asked questions about the area plan process and staff responded by noting some key points: Why is public Input important? Identifies the preferences of the people who live and work in Area 3. Establishes goals and a shared vision for the community. You can shape your community as it grows. What does an Area Plan do? Identifies natural resources and places with unique community character that should be preserved. Lays out a vision for new commercial centers, housing, major employers, transportation, parks and greenways; Influences City investments in public infrastructure and helps align those investments with new development; Informs City decisions about rezoning. As of March 22, a total of 483 Surveys have been completed. The Community Choices Survey is open until March 31. Staff reminds participants who take the paper version, to return the completed survey to one of the YFD Recreation Centers in Area 3 or mail it to the Regional Planning Agency (1250 Market Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402) by March 31. A Spanish language version is also available on-line or by contacting the RPA office. Contact the RPA for more information at 423-643-5901 or email pglaser@chattanooga.gov Wright-Mitchem, Clara Clara Wright-Mitchem, 80, of Chattanooga, went to be with the Lord Thursday, March 21, 2019. She is preceded in death by parents, Maynard and Rosa Lee Wright and brother, Newell Wright. She is survived by husband, Danny S. Mitchem and Betty (Gene) McMahan; nephews, Michael Sr. (Gayla) Wright and Greg (Tracy) Wright; great-nephews and nieces, Chelsey, Michael II, Heather, Kayla, Cole and Caroline Wright; great-great-nephews and niece, Josh Taylor, Kaiden, Michael V., Hunter, Lucas and Gracie Wright; and special cousin, Judy Brown. The family will receive friends and family at Ewtons Funeral Home in Dunlap on Friday, March 22, from 3-7 p.m. CST. Funeral Services will be held in the Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday at noon CST. Burial will follow in Sequatchie Co. Memorial Gardens. The family is asking for contributions to the Alzheimers Association in lieu of flowers. The Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center announced today it has added three "nationally prominent" individuals to its boards, effective immediately. This announcement comes as the organization undergoes construction for its new $6 million Heritage Center that will be located in downtown Chattanooga at the Aquarium Plaza.The new board members are: Honorary Board: Medal of Honor recipient Colonel Jack Jacobs, U.S. Army (Retired); Honorary Board: Medal of Honor recipient Sergeant First Class Melvin Morris, U.S.Army (Retired); and Board of Advisors: Major General Carl R. Horst, U.S. Army (Retired) and President and CEO of the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation.We are truly honored to have Medal of Honor recipients Jacobs and Morris join our Honorary Board as their acts of valor during the Vietnam War are the embodiment of Courage and Sacrifice, said Major General Bill Raines, U.S. Army (Retired) and chairman of the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. They're continuing commitment to our community and country serves as a wonderful example to all Americans, particularly our youth. We are extremely grateful that these real-life heroes will join our mission, and we look forward to the guidance they can provide as we move forward with this meaningful project."We are also extremely honored to have Major General Horst join our Board of Advisors as his leadership experience in both the United States Army and with the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation will help strengthen our Board and bring a level of expertise that will benefit the Heritage Center as we prepare to open our world-class facility in February 2020.Board Bios:Major General Horst served in the U.S. Army for more than 40 years and led American soldiers at different command levels around the world. He commanded an airborne infantry battalion and a brigade in the 82nd Airborne Division. As the Deputy Commanding General for Multi-National Division Baghdad, Major General Horst was responsible for more than 56,000 troops engaged in combat. He concluded his Army career as the Chief of Staff for U.S. Central Command, overseeing operations in 20 countries and multiple combat operations in the Middle East. Horst currently serves as the President @ CEO of the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation in Washington, D.C.Colonel Jacobs served in Vietnam twice, both times as an advisor to Vietnamese infantry battalions, earning three Bronze Stars, two Silver Stars and the Medal of Honor, the nations highest combat decoration. Jacobs continued to serve in the U.S. Army until he retired as a Colonel in 1987. He went on to have a very successful career in business and today he is a principle of The Fitzroy group, a firm that specializes in the development of residential real estate in London and invests both for his own account and in joint ventures with other institutions. Jacobs also serves as a military analyst for NBC News and MSNBC; vice chairman of the Medal of Honor Foundation; a trustee for the National World War II Museum; and co-author of two books. He holds the McDermott Chair of Politics at the U.S. Military Academy and was the keynote speaker for the Heritage Centers 2018 Celebration of Valor Luncheon.Sergeant First Class Morris, a retired Green Beret, distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Commander of the Strike Force in the Republic of Vietnam on September 17, 1969. For his extraordinary heroism on that day, he received the Distinguished Service Cross. Morris continued to serve in various posts in the U.S. Army before retiring at Fort Hood, Texas in May 1985. In 2014, Sergeant First Class Morris was one of 24 recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross (also known as the Valor 24) that received the Congressional Medal of Honor under the Defense Authorization Act. Morris officially received the Medal of Honor from President Barack Obama in a March 18, 2014 ceremony at the White House. He is now actively engaged with the Medal of Honor Foundations Character Development Program nationwide. Morris also served as the guest presenter at the local Character Development Program training session held at Girls Preparatory School."The mission of the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center is to memorialize the acts of valor demonstrated by the recipients of our highest military award and educate the next generation about the character traits associated with their gallantry, from the First Medal forward."To recognize Chattanooga as the Birthplace of the Medal of Honor and to honor the first recipients of our countrys highest medal of an act of valor, the Heritage Center launched its $6 million capital campaign in August 2017 to build a new facility in downtown Chattanooga at the Aquarium Plaza," officials said.Construction of its new facility began in January 2019 with the planned opening date of February 2020. The 19,000-square-foot facility will include a large permanent gallery with immersive, interactive exhibits on Medal of Honor recipients and a dedicated area for exhibits, classrooms, an event rental space and a gift shop. The facility will also serve as the hub for the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundations Character Development Program that teaches the six character traits that embody the Medal of Honor and its recipients Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice, and Commitment. With the death toll eclipsing 70 in Kentucky alone, 2021 is now the deadliest year for tornadoes since 2011. Powerful twisters ripped through swaths of the South and Midwest, leaving several more dead in Arkansas and at an Amazon warehouse in Illinois. A major nighttime tornado outbreak erupted across an area stretching from the South to the Midwest late Friday night and into ... (click for more) (Jen Jeffrey Billington, Chattanoogan.com correspondent, lives a short distance from Mayfield, Ky., that suffered massive tornado damage. Power is out at her home, but she was able to post this on Facebook) Not sure if this will post, Internet is down and I can only do certain things on Facebook, but not everything. It gets hung up when I try to answer your comments. My family ... (click for more) I want to set the record straight about growth in North Hamilton County. On Feb. 21, 2019, County Mayor Coppinger called a reset meeting with the residents of Ooltewah/Harrison over the proposed sewer plant in North Hamilton County. In front of this community, I stood up and specifically asked the county mayor if growth could continue in Ooltewah and Harrison on septic tanks alone has it has in this area over the last 75 years. He said Yes. I repeat Yes was his response to this question. He keeps saying that not having a sewer treatment facility has stalled growth and will halt any future growth. That is 100 percent not true; and he confirmed it publicly. I continued to ask if there was any environmental reason why septic tanks could not be used in the North Hamilton County area to continue growth? He responded No. He was backed in this response by members of the WWTA board and other engineers. I am so sick and tired of hearing the report that if we dont build this plant it will stop and hinder growth. This is a lie! The county mayor confirmed that growth can continue on septic tanks. If you dont believe me ask one of the other 200+ people in attendance who witnessed me ask and him answer this question. In fact, did you know that north of the proposed Mahan Gap property there are multiple subdivisions being developed that are being built on septic tanks systems? One subdivision has over 40 homes being developed. That sounds like growth to me. Subdivisions have been built since the 1970s in Ooltewah on septic tanks and are still operating well. Growth can still occur in Ooltewah and Harrison on septic tanks without the need for an expensive sewer treatment plant. It does mean that property plots in subdivisions would have to be larger, and you cant build homes on just a small quarter acre. But why is that a problem? People move to Ooltewah because of the wide-open spaces and a quiet, peaceful environment. We werent looking for an urban residence. Did you know that some families in Ooltewah have owned their land and passed it down for over 75 years? For them it is not about money. Not to get sappy in this post, but it about the memories and the peace they feel on their land. This is a money cant buy everything situation. Why is it bad that we want to keep the integrity and essence of the Ooltewah and Harrison we all love? In the latest commission meeting the county mayor was commended by another commissioner for his passion in this fight. This is the same passion the people in this community have to save and preserve something we love. Why is our passion any less commendable? Why have we become the enemy for fighting for what we love? It is terrible that this issue has been so poorly presented without studies, community input, lots of misinformation. It is pitting resident against resident, neighbor against neighbor. In the county mayors most recent commission speech he noted that this issue has become wildly political. The fact of the matter is that any issue brought in front of the county commission for decision is political. That is just simple definition of political issues. I think our county mayor misspoke and should have said it has become personal. I do hate that for officials and their families that it has become personal and you have been attacked. This shouldnt be the case. However, you have to understand it is very personal for us too. It is our homes. Our homes where we have placed large financial investments, where we raise our families, where we find a community and a place to belong, where we celebrate lifes great moments, and where we find comfort in low ones, so it is very personal to us and we feel attacked as well. County Mayor Coppinger, we feel you arent listening to the people you represent in this area. You are more interested in growth for growths sake than planning for responsible growth and listening to the people that have placed their personal investment in a community they love. You can have growth and keep the essence of a community. Other cities have done it well, and it is possible. However, it takes hard work, working together, and developing well thought out plan to make it happen. I told the county mayor at the meeting that I believe it is the responsibility of a mayor to get involved in growth and create a responsible growth plan. This has not been done. Did you know that no formal plan for growth has been developed yet for north of the Meadowview/Ooltewah Georgetown Road Junction. Nothing! The exact area this plant is supposed to service. How do you know what the needs are unless you properly plan? I asked the county mayor the night of the reset meeting to get involved and help lead development of a responsible growth plan first instead of just pushing a plant that doesnt a solid plan behind it. My verbal request seems to be pushed to the side, so here it is in writing. I know I am a proponent for growth via septic tanks. I hate seeing farms cleared, trees torn down, and land striped for new subdivisions; because, we feel the need to pack in the homes. I have yet to see a study on what growth would look like on septic tank development alone. I think any resident would agree with me they would rather pay $17-$25 per month for water and no sewer service than $110-$200 for water and sewer. I am still shocked each month by the $110-$200 bill I receive. Sewer cost is over 70 percent of my bill. I can find much better things to spend $1,000-$2,000 on each year. I understand I may stand alone in being pro-growth on septic tanks alone for Hamilton County. Many have told me that it will never happen, but I am not giving up on the fight. I think a study is at least warranted, and we at least need to explore what that growth plan would look like. I also recognize that following reports I may have to secede to further sewer development, but I am one that needs to see it in writing. Not matter what we need a solid plan that addresses regional development as a whole (jobs, schools, housing, roads, and other infrastructures). Growth should be responsible and intentional. Currently, proper studies and reports have not been evaluated and reported to stakeholders. Before we take on such an excessive financial burden that effect so many stakeholders the homework needs to be done. I propose that we need to take 2019 to focus on developing a great growth plan. I believe there are other cities in the U.S. we could learn from who have executed great growth plans, and they havent stolen the original essence from the areas they occupy. This plan should evaluate how we preserve what makes our cities great, input from residents, and address what responsible debt burdens look like for our county and repayment strategies. I believe we trying to put the cart before the horse, and in doing so we are looking at a massive financial burden for the entire county. Regional planning is at the heart of this sewer issue, and we need to develop a plan before we take on such I high burden for our county. I encourage you to write/keep writing your Hamilton County commissioner asking them to make responsible planning the first item on the agenda. Veronica Seaman Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department officials confirmed Friday that an employee working at the Western Sizzlin Restaurant, 6021 Relocation Way, Ooltewah, has been diagnosed with acute hepatitis A. The restaurant employee worked at the restaurant while contagious March 10-20. Persons who ate at this restaurant during these dates should get vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine as soon as possible, health officials said. The Health Department said, "The hepatitis A vaccine is safe, effective, and well tolerated. It is the best protection against the hepatitis A virus. Additional protective measures, such as immune globulin injections, may be recommended for certain people." The Health Department will offer free hepatitis A vaccine at the following special clinics: Sunday, March 24, 1PM 6PM: Health Department (Main Campus), 921 E. 3rd Street, Chattanooga, TN 37403 Monday, March 25, 8AM 6PM: Ooltewah Health Center, 5520 High Street, Ooltewah, TN 37363 Health Department (Main Campus), 921 E. 3rd Street, Chattanooga, TN 37403 Tuesday, March 26, 8AM 6PM: Ooltewah Health Center, 5520 High Street, Ooltewah, TN 37363 Health Department (Main Campus), 921 E. 3rd Street, Chattanooga, TN 37403 For those who cannot make it to these special clinics, they may come into any Health Department health center during regular hours any day next week. Symptoms of hepatitis A are fatigue, decreased appetite, stomach pain, nausea, darkened urine, pale stools, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). People can become ill 15 to 50 days after being exposed to the virus. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention. Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department officials have confirmed 129 cases of hepatitis A have been reported in Hamilton County since May 2018. During this time, the Health Department has led an aggressive hepatitis A vaccine campaign, supported by community partners and the Tennessee Department of Health. Over 5,000 vaccinations have been given so far. Hepatitis A usually spreads by the fecal-oral route through ingestion of contaminated food or drinks, close person-to-person contact with an infected person, and recreational drug use, particularly intravenous drugs. The best ways to prevent hepatitis A infection are to get vaccinated and to practice good hand washing to remove germs. For more information, visit health.hamiltontn.gov, or call 423-209-8190 during regular hours. Every member of Tennessees congressional delegation on Saturday urged President Trump to quickly approve Governor Bill Lees request for a major disaster declaration for the state of Tennessee to help 58 Tennessee counties impacted by flooding and severe weather in February and March. On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we are writing to support Governor Bill Lees request to declare a major disaster pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief Act as a result of the flooding and severe storms that impacted our state beginning on February 6, 2019. ...We thank you for your Administrations ongoing response, specifically the Federal Highway Administration making $10 million immediately available to help repair roads damaged by flood and landslides. However, the severe storms that swept across the State of Tennessee beginning on February 6th brought severe storms and flooding that cost the state over $151 million. Federal Emergency Management Agency and State joint Preliminary Damage Assessments in affected counties for both Public and Individual Assistance occurred between March 7, 2019 and March 21, 2019. The letter was signed by U.S. Senators Lamar Alexander and Marsha Blackburn and Representatives Tim Burchett, Steve Cohen, Jim Cooper, Scott DesJarlais, Chuck Fleischmann, Mark Green, David Kustoff, Phil Roe and John Rose. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Mr. President: On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we are writing to support Governor Bill Lees request to declare a major disaster pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief Act as a result of the flooding and severe storms that impacted our state beginning on February 6, 2019. Governor Bill Lee has submitted a request for Public Assistance for Anderson, Bedford, Bledsoe, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Cheatham, Claiborne, Clay, Cocke, Coffee, Decatur, Dekalb, Dickson, Dyer, Fentress, Gibson, Giles, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hamilton, Hancock, Hardin, Hawkins, Hickman, Houston, Humphreys, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Knox, Lake, Lauderdale, Lewis, Lincoln, Marion, Marshall, McNairy, Moore, Morgan, Obion, Overton, Perry, Rhea, Roane, Robertson, Scott, Sequatchie, Sevier, Smith, Tipton, Unicoi, Union, Van Buren, Warren, Wayne, and Weakley Counties to respond to the severe flooding and overwhelming storms that tore through Tennessee. The State has also requested Individual Assistance for Decatur, Hardin, Humphreys, Perry, and Sevier Counties. We strongly urge you to approve Governor Lees request, and we hope you will consider our States request as soon as possible. We thank you for your Administrations ongoing response, specifically the March 15, 2019, announcement that $10 million is immediately available to help repair roads damaged by flood and landslides. However, the severe storms that swept across the State of Tennessee beginning on February 6th brought severe storms and flooding that cost the state over $151 million. In response to the floods and severe storms, the State of Tennessee provided over 4,000 meals, distributed almost 300 cases of water, monitored fifty-eight rock slides or falls, and was forced to close down 75 locations on state highways. Federal Emergency Management Agency and State joint Preliminary Damage Assessments in affected counties for both Public and Individual Assistance occurred between March 12, 2019, and March 21, 2019. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency has been working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency since the beginning of this incident, and we are grateful for their efforts to respond to Tennessees needs. Our offices can provide you with any additional information should you have any questions. The head of the US Department of State, Mike Pompeo, said that Washingtons intention to recognize the Golan Heights as an Israeli territory amid the situation with Crimea is not a policy of double standards. According to him, the United States has previously imposed sanctions on Russia in connection with the situation around Crimea. And, responding to a question whether the US intention on the Golan Heights means the double standards policy, the head of the US Department of State noted that the actions of US President Donald Trump on the Golan Heights - are the recognition of the real situation on the ground and security situation required to protect the Israeli state ", RIA Novosti quotes Pompeo as saying. Wednesday, March 27 Friday, March 29 will be recognized in Hamilton County as Vietnam Veterans Appreciation Day to coincide with the national observance, Friday, March 29. Only recently has the nation appeared united in its recognition that members of the armed forces returning from the raging conflict in Southeast Asia [1965-1975] were greeted with unfriendly stares instead of cheering crowds and parade streamers. The local observance at 10 am on Wednesday, March 27 on the high hill at the Chattanooga National Cemetery will pay homage to the over 150 young men from the Chattanooga Valley who died in that conflict and will honor the more than 10,000 surviving men and women of the region who fought in Vietnam. For many citizens, the Vietnam War is a distant memory, one page in an abbreviated U. S. History text or the Ken Burns PBS series. For others, Vietnam was a defining moment in their lives, whether they served in Southeast Asia, as support forces in other regions of the world or simply lived through the events of the war via the first nightly war broadcasts in our nations history. For those citizens, the events of fifty years ago remain a crisp memory, only softened around the edges by the passage of time. 1969. The world seemed to be changing quickly. Apollo 11 landed on the moon and Neil Armstrong proclaimed a giant leap for mankind. Woodstock and the Stonewall Riots sent shiver through the nation as a new generation seemed to also take a giant leap beyond the seemingly uncomplicated life of the 1950s. Political news ping-ponged from the inauguration of Richard Nixon to the unsettling news of Chappaquiddick. All of the major domestic stories, however, played out against the continuing images of the Vietnam Conflict. 1969 in Vietnam saw US troops engaged in a 10-day attempt to cut off North Vietnamese infiltration from Laos in a high carnage battle at Ap Bia Mountain, later nicknamed Hamburger Hill by journalists. Ho Chi Minh died of a heart attack in September and, instead of lessening North Vietnamese resolve, fighting intensified. The U.S. responded with two strong and seemingly counteractions: the institution of a draft lottery and Vietnamization program designed to gradually reduce the number of U. S. forces in South Vietnam. The draft seemed to gather up those young men not enrolled in college and to create a new group known as draft dodgers who fled to Canada to avoid combat. Vietnamization worked as troop numbers dropped from more that 549,000 in 1969 to less than 69,000 in 1972 and an anxious nation watched as reports began to focus on the Paris peace talks. Amidst all the political and social upheaval of 1969, soldiers, sailor, airmen and Marines from the Tennessee Valley continued the fight. Most would return home accompanied by memories that remain vivid fifty years later; most, when interviewed, will tell you that they served with honor and that, while the political management of the war was often clouded, they were fighting to stop the spread of communism, masking totalitarian corruption and lack of self-determination. Two generations later, the scars remain but the links of friendship between those who served also remain. Set aside thirty minutes, beginning at 10 am, Wednesday, March 27 at the Chattanooga National Cemetery, for an opportunity to witness a Welcome Home moment among brothers and sisters for whom 1969 seems only a few days ago. The event is sponsored by Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter # 203, Hamilton County Government, the Chief John Ross Chapter, NSDAR and the Chattanooga National Cemetery. - - - Linda Moss Mines is the official Chattanooga-Hamilton County Historian, Co-Chair of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration Committee and an active member of the Chief John Ross Chapter, NSDAR. For more information about Vietnam commemorative events, she can be reached at localhistorycounts@gmail.com . To information regarding membership in VVA 203 or the VVA 203 Associates, contact Chapter President Charlie Hobbs at nam67mp@aol.com. Meghan Markle is getting closer and closer to her due date (said to be somewhere between the end of April and beginning of May). From what weve seen, so far, shes handled this pregnancy with only the grace and poise one can expect from a pregnant duchess. Her maternity wardrobe has been nothing short of chic, her schedule has remained incredibly busy, and she and Harry are even still squeezing in date nights here and there. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle | Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage Meghan Markles pregnancy has been clean and green A source recently told People that Markles pregnancy has been a very California-influenced one. Markle was born and raised in Los Angeles, and the source told the publication that the duchesss California roots are coming through as she prepares to become a mother. Shes being mindful of what she puts in her body and on her skin and even her at-home cleaning supplies, said the source. Shes hyperaware of what shes using. Shes looking for natural things. The source says that, in addition to the products Markle is using on her body, she is being mindful of what shes eating as well, a trend the source predicts will continue after the baby is born. She eats cleaner, and shell probably make her own baby food. Its going to be clean living for this baby. The final stages of Meghan Markles pregnancy Though shes beginning to be in the final stages of her pregnancy, Markle has been busy overseeing the renovations being performed on Frogmore Cottage in Windsor. The royal couple is expected to move in before the birth of the baby, but moving can be stressful for anyone, never mind someone whos pregnant! Markle has said that shes excited to finally get to a point in her pregnancy where she can start relaxing and put her feet up. Her schedule is finally starting to slow down, and once the renovations are complete and she and Harry can move in it should be smooth sailing until the babys born. Relaxing Frogmore Cottage Luckily for the busy royal couple, Frogmore Cottage is said to be a much more relaxing place to live than the hustling and bustling Kensington Palace in London where Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their children reside. People reports that their source spoke about how both Markle and Harry would like for their home at Frogmore Cottage to be a relaxing sanctuary for their growing family. The source also says this baby has been incredible for the couples relationship. This is a very happy time for Meghan and Harry. This baby has brought them even closer. Read more: The Real Reason Meghan Markle Wants Her Children to Attend an American School Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! As can be evidenced in pictures of the royal family, Prince Charles gets along wonderfully with his daughters-in-law, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle. He can often be seen joking and laughing with them, and even recently said he was elated when both of them married his sons. Although there have been past rumors of a feud, Meghan and Kate also seem to get along just fine. With the playful banter that we often see between brothers Prince William and Prince Harry, we can assume that everyone in the family has great relationships! However, we hardly ever see Charles wife, Camilla, with Kate or Meghan. Does she have a close relationship with the two of them? Camilla was not immediately liked by royal fans It was famously known that Prince Charles was unfaithful to his first wife, Princess Diana when he had an affair with Camilla Parker-Bowles. Royal fans, who absolutely adored Diana, had a hard time accepting the hurt that he ultimately caused her. As a result, when Camilla and Charles were married, she did not receive the warmest of welcomes from the people of England. The Duchess of Cornwall has since earned the acceptance of Queen Elizabeth Through her extensive charity work and dedication to royal duties, Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, has gained the seal of approval from her mother-in-law, the queen. Although Queen Elizabeth is very difficult to please, she has come to realize over the years that Camilla is a great addition to the family and that she is a wonderful wife to Prince Charles. Do we ever see Camilla with Meghan or Kate? It is rare that we see Camilla appear at an engagement with the Duchess of Sussex or the Duchess of Cambridge. However, we do see them at royal events, such as the recent party that was held at Buckingham Palace in honor of the 50th anniversary of the investiture of Prince Charles. It could very well be that they are just not scheduled to appear at royal engagements together, but when there is a party or other event that involves many members of the family, we can always see the three duchesses together. Camillas relationship with Kate Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall | Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage Behind the scenes, Camilla is said to actually have a very close relationship with Kate. Even before she was officially married to Prince William, Camilla enjoyed spending time with her and even held a pre-wedding lunch in her honor. The two seem to get along just fine, although it reportedly took some time for Camilla to develop a relationship with Kate when she and William began dating. Her relationship with Meghan is just as good, as she was beyond thrilled when the news broke that Meghan and Harry had become engaged. William, Harry, and Camilla Princes William and Harry tragically lost their mother when they were both very young. The boys were very close to Diana, and to this day, they still recall all of the fond memories of their childhood. When their father married Camilla, the two princes were happy to have her as their stepmother. Although it took some getting used to in the beginning, they eventually formed relationships with her as well as her daughter, and now, everyone is one big, happy family! Kate Middleton and Meghan Markles fashion choices have had an impressive impact on both the fashion industry and the economy. And while its not uncommon for the Duchess of Cambridge and Duchess of Sussex to rock Dolce & Gabbana, J. Crew, Aritzia, Aquazurra, Zara, and other popular designers and brands, the royal women also throw in some lesser-known companies. Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle | Karwai Tang/WireImage Do Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle purchase and wear clothes from under-the-radar brands and designers on purpose? We find out, ahead. The Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle effect The Duchess of Cambridge and Duchess of Sussexs wardrobes are a mix of high and affordable fashion. And, some of their favorite affordable brands arent that far off from many of us commoners (think: Zara, Aritzia, and H&M). While their wardrobe relatability is notable, we cant help but wonder about the lesser-known brands highlighted in some of their fashion choices. Its no secret that Kate Middleton and Meghan Markles outfits get a significant amount of attention. According to Love the Sales, Meghan Markles maternity wardrobe alone has caused an influx of fashion searches over the last eight months with some brands including those lesser-known companies seeing search volume increase by over 5,000%. In fact, one smaller designer, Karen Gee saw overnight searches grow by 5,800% and a website crash after the Duchess of Sussex wore a white shift dress by the designer. The royal women often wear British brands and designers which helps boost the British economy but also wear more local brands when visiting countries outside of the United Kingdom. Meghan Markle also wears a lot of Canadian brands, which might have something to do with her best friend and unofficial stylist, Jessica Mulroney. The Canadian stylist and fashion consultant has drawn attention to designers like House of Nonie through the Duchess of Sussexs wardrobe. Both Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle have what fashion experts refer to as the Kate Effect and the Meghan effect, which means that both women have a tremendous amount of buyer influence and are like walking billboards for designers and brands. Do Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle wear under-the-radar brands and designers on purpose? Its unclear whether their interest in lesser-known brands and designers is on purpose. However, some might argue that their support of many British brands and designers (both under-the-radar and well-known) and Meghan Markles love for Canadian fashion companies might be on purpose. Regardless of popularity, wearing a British designer or brand helps boost the British economy significantly. According to StyleCaster, Meghan Markles influence on consumers was forecasted at over $212 million between her engagement and the royal wedding alone. Kate Middleton also has an impressive influence over the British economy with the designers she chooses. According to Business Insider, the Duchess of Cambridges outfits allegedly brought in $205 million to the economy in 2015. While they might not choose lesser-known brands and designers on purpose, the royal women know that the companies they garments to wear to royal engagements can make their countrys economy a lot of money. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Diana, Princess of Wales, will always be remembered for her philanthropy and her uncanny ability to stay relate-able even though she was a royal. But the Peoples Princess also had a passion for fashion and always made an impact when the cameras were pointed towards her. From the frilly wedding gown to the infamous Elvis dress (see page 14) here are 15 of Princess Dianas most memorable outfits. 1. Introducing: The ring Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles following the announcement of their engagement | Tim Graham/Getty Images The blue suit Diana wore when she and Prince Charles announced their engagement is easily one of her most memorable ensembles. The occasion also marks the first time the public got to see her now-infamous sapphire ring, which she displayed proudly in her engagement photos. (That ring, of course, has been passed on to Kate Middleton.) Next: All the frills 2. Engagement ensembles Lady Diana Spencer on a walkabout at Broadlands during her engagement | Tim Graham/Getty Images Many of Dianas ensembles during her time as a royal especially early on featured a plethora of ruffles and frills, like this one she wore at Broadlands during her engagement. Although later it was revealed she dressed this way to fit in with royal family standards. Her personal style, which was much more streamlined, came out more after her divorce from Prince Charles. Next: And if you thought that collar was frilly 3. Wedding (dress) of the Century Diana, Princess of Wales, wearing an Emanuel wedding dress, leaves St. Pauls Cathedral with Prince Charles, Prince of Wales following their wedding on 29 July, 1981 in London, England | Anwar Hussein/Getty Images The Princess of Wales was the talk of the town the whole globe actually when she married Prince Charles on July 29, 1981. Her large Emanuel wedding dress and gargantuan train were left to her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, in her will. Next: Not everything had ruffles 4. Globetrotting in style Prince Charles dozing for a few moments while Princess Diana watches a display of dancing in Fiji | Tim Graham/Getty Images Traveling all over the world can be a grueling feat, but that doesnt mean the royals can stop looking stylish. Diana rocked a sleek, warm-weather-friendly frock when she and Prince Charles made a quick trip to Fiji in the middle of visits to Australia and the United States. Next: Speaking of visiting the States 5. Her first trip to the USA Prince Charles and Princess Diana meet President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan at the White House on November 9, 1985 |Tim Graham/Getty Images Princess Diana was noted as being very charming when she made her inaugural visit to the United States with Prince Charles to meet President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan. Her sleek black dress became one of her most memorable outfits in part because she was wearing it when she danced with John Travolta. Next: Very regal 6. Pretty in periwinkle Diana at the V&A Museum attending the Splendours of the Gonzagas exhibition wearing a dress designed by fashion designers Bellville Sassoon | Tim Graham/Getty Images Dianas appearance at the Victoria & Albert Museum exhibit Splendours of the Gonzagas in 1981 is memorable for two reasons. The first, of course, was for the beautiful Bellville Sassoon dress she wore. The second was because she dozed off while sitting onstage. Next: There was always something blue 7. Attending fashion shows The Princess of Wales arrives at the Guildhall in London for a fashion show, November 1982 | Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Images Princess Dianas passion for fashion was apparent in everything she wore but especially when she attended fashion-focused events. One great example is when she attended a fashion show at Guildhall in London with her ladies-in-waiting, wearing a stunning blue Bruce Oldfield number. Next: The little prince 8. Introducing: Prince William Newborn Prince William with Diana, Princess of Wales and Prince Charles leave St. Marys hospital on June 22, 1982, in Paddington, London, England |David Levenson/Getty Images Dianas first son, Prince William, was the first in the royal bloodline to be born at a hospital instead of at home. So naturally, there was press waiting outside of St. Marys Hospital to greet them. Her polka-dot frock instantly became memorable. Next: Lady in red 9. Introducing: Prince Harry Princess Diana leaving St Marys Hospital, London with her new-born son, Prince Harry, 16th September 1984 |Terry Fincher/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Images Princess Dianas style evolved over her time in the spotlight to incorporate more statement jackets. This was evident when she emerged from St. Marys Hospital with newborn Prince Harry in 1984 wearing a stylish red Jan van Velden blazer. Next: The fairest of them all 10. The birthday girl Diana attends a gala dinner at the Tate Gallery on her 36th b irthday | Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images Dianas 36th birthday celebration at Londons Tate Gallery in 1997 was her last before she tragically passed away. She was a year removed from her divorce from Prince Charles and was doing what she could to put her troubled married years behind her. She looked stunning in the process, donning a Chantilly lace gown by Jacques Azagury which the designer had given her as a birthday gift. Next: Baring arms 11. At the Cannes Film Festival Diana, Princess of Wales, wearing a pale blue chiffon dress and matching stole by Catherine Walker | Anwar Hussein/Getty Images Late fashion designer Catherine Walker was one of Dianas go-tos for red carpet events and other big happenings. This included the ethereal sleeveless blue chiffon dress the Princess of Wales wore at the Cannes Film Festival in 1987. Next: Hats off 12. Attending the Ascot Diana, Princess of Wales, and Sarah, Duchess of York, stroll through the Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot races |David Levenson/Getty Images When she wasnt rocking a tiara, Diana could often be found wearing a variety of awesome hats. She was particularly keen to bright colors for balcony appearances or trips to the races and the blue-and-yellow ensemble she wore at Royal Ascot in 1987 is definitely a standout. Next: Looking beautiful even when abroad 13. At the Elysee Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, meet guests arriving at a dinner in November 1988, during the Royal Tour of France | David Levenson/Getty Images Keeping up with royal duties, two children, and the stress of being in an unhappy marriage never dulled Dianas sparkle. Here shes seen with Prince Charles during a tour of France in 1988, looking regal as ever in a Victor Edelstein dress for dinner in the Elysee Palace in Paris. Next: One of her most iconic outfits 14. The Elvis Dress Diana, Princess of Wales wears a white Catherine Walker gown, known as the Elvis dress | Tim Graham/Getty Images While the chiffon gown at the Cannes Film Festival was a hit, Catherine Walkers beaded white gown with matching bolero may be even more iconic. Diana wore the frock, which she infamously dubbed her Elvis dress, to the British Fashion Awards at Royal Albert Hall in 1989. Next: Last but not least 15. Casual elegance The Princess Of Wales with Princes William and Harry at the V-J Day 50th anniversary celebrations in London |Antony Jones/Julian Parker/UK Press via Getty Images While many of Dianas most memorable outfits were worn at royal engagements, she also made headlines for wearing more casual attire when hanging out with her sons. But the trio had a memorable fashion-forward family moment while attending the V-J Day 50th anniversary celebration in 1995, when Diana donned a clean-cut white dress suit and pearls. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Nothing can prepare you for motherhood it changes every aspect of your life in extreme ways, making it impossible to imagine life before. So far, most members of the Kar-Jenner clan know this phenomenon intimately since almost all have babies and young kids. Kylie Jenner, founder of super successful beauty brand Kylie Cosmetics, is no exception. Kylie and her boyfriend, rapper Travis Scott, are parents to 1-year-old daughter Stormi Webster. The Keeping Up With the Kardashians star recently hosted an elaborate birthday party for the little girl and everyone was blown away by the excess. What is Kylie really like as a mom? Read on to find out. Kylie Jenner knew she wanted to be a young mom The billionaire beauty industry guru spoke about her feelings on motherhood in a recent in interview: I always knew I wanted to be a young mother, Kylie told Interview Germany. I remember people used to ask, Are you ready for this? And I always knew I was ready, but you dont know what that love and that feeling is like until after you have a child. She really comes before me so that is a lot to take in at a young age, but I feel like I was definitely made for this and she has changed my life for the better. Kylie claims motherhood has made her a better person Theres something about being completely responsible for a young life that changes your perspective in huge ways. In the same interview, Kylie Jenner admitted that shes a better person since she gave birth to Stormi in February 2018. The way that I look at things is a lot more positive and I really feel like my life didnt start until I had her, Jenner says in a sentiment that so many moms can relate to. Will Stormi be featured on the show Keeping Up With the Kardashians? You may catch a glimpse of precious Stormi on Kylies social media accounts, but dont expect to see her featured on KUWTK episodes anytime soon. I am going to wait until she is old enough to make that decision for herself, Kylie says of her decision to keep her off the show. These are wise words of wisdom from this new mom, indeed. Kylie Jenner | Presley Ann/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images Is Kylie Jenner planning to have more kids? Kylie may have wanted to be a young mom, but does she want to have a lot of kids? In the interview, she admits that yes, shes planning to expand her family and give Stormi a sibling. I do want more kids but I do not have any plans in the near future to have children right now, she said. Could her admission have anything to do with the reported Travis Scott cheating rumors? Possibly. Its likely that Kylie Jenner doesnt want to have more children with a man who isnt fully committed. Shes seen how much dysfunctional relationships can hurt children just by watching her sisters go through it no doubt shes trying to protect her daughter and future children from that drama. By all accounts, motherhood has made Kylie Jenner more mature, wise, grounded, and practical. And those are all good things. Us is Jordan Peeles second foray into the horror genre since his critically acclaimed movie Get Out, and it does not disappoint. Starring Lupita Nyongo, Winston Duke, and Elizabeth Moss, the film follows Adelaide Wilson, and her family, as they return to the beachfront home where Adelaide grew up. Jordan Peele | Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images Adelaide convinced that something terrible is going to happen as a result of an eerie and traumatic childhood experience at the beach cant seem to settle into the vacation mindset. Adelaides fears become reality when four masked strangers descend upon their home. The twist: the four attackers are mirror images of Adelaides family. One for the daughter. One for the son. One who resembles the father. And of course, one who mirrors Adelaide herself. The film, just like Get Out, disowns horror movie cliches and, instead, asks viewers to confront their own psychological tendencies and societal outlook. The film is not merely a horror; it is an allegory centered on the concept of other, or us vs them. Before getting into this films three major triumphs, keep in mind that this post will attempt to be spoiler-free, as the goal is to convince those who have not seen the film to get on over to the theatre. However, for the sake of argumentation, thematic spoilers and/or minor revelations may slip through the cracks. 1 Horror is not the foundation; it is the means of execution. Like any quality horror film, of which there are so few these days, Jordan Peeles Us does not rely on horror tactics for success. If it did, the film would not be so critically praised, as the scrutinizing, and seemingly faceless, voices behind Rotten Tomatoes would never adulate a Freddy vs. Jason-esque escapade. In Us, horror is just the means of execution. It is the vehicle Jordan Peele uses to get his message across. By choosing the horror genre, the nature of the doppelgangers their underlying purpose is augmented; they become the other to be feared. They are villainous. They are dangerous. However, it is not Peele who casts them aside as the bad guys, a viewers natural tendency takes care of this: A natural tendency to assume other is bad, which is the very thing Peele is asking society to reflect on. And, thus, the allegory at large. *MINOR PLOT SPOILER AHEAD*: In the movie, Adelaides doppelganger explains that living as Adelaides alternate self in the world down under left her with no agency. She was destined to live as her shadow, tethered to Adelaides existence as a mere reflection. The other Adelaide is also a human, with feelings of her own, and pent up anger from a life unfulfilled. Her circumstances out of her control and drastically subpar to virtually any human existence have placed her where she is today. Is Jordan Peele asking us to reflect on what it means to be part of the privileged? Most definitely, and in the most horrifying way possible. 2 Lupita Nyongo kills it! Lupita Nyongo, playing both Adelaide and the other Adelaide, delivers a performance worth seeing on the silver screen. From the protective mother who refuses to see her children hurt to the condemned other looking to claim an existence for herself, Lupita Nyongo perfectly shifts between the two identities. In Us,Nyongo is a joy to watch. Her characters are heartfelt, horrifying, harrowed, and captivating. While the surrounding cast members also deliver stellar performances, it is Nyongo who grabs your attention and never lets it go. 3 Us returns dignity to horror and may become the second film in the genre to ever win the Oscar for Best Picture As mentioned earlier, Us marks Jordan Peeles second horror movie triumph since Get Out, and Get Out was nominated for Best Picture. However, everyone knows the Academy rarely awards this honor to someone who hasnt done his/her time. Now, Jordan Peele has. And with his Twilight Zone revamp on the horizon, its clear that Peele doesnt plan to abandon terror territory or socially stirring sci-fi stints anytime soon. Currently boasting a 95% according to critics on Rotten Tomatoes, Us is a horror movie that transcends its genre and is thus deserving of Oscar recognition (as was Get Out). Except, this time, Peele may just take the award home. To this day, 1992s Silence of the Lambs is the only horror movie to ever win the honor. Jordan Peeles previous success and critical acclaim in this arena may just be enough to bring dignity back to the horror genre, and an award along with it. Chris Evans was born on June 13, 1981, in Boston, Massachusetts to a theater employee and a dentist. He showed a love of acting early and participated in both school productions and local theater shows. Evans first real acting gig happened in 1997, but it was his role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe which truly propelled him into fame. Evans first film in the MCU was Captain America: The First Avenger, in 2011. He has since gone on to reprise the character in Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), The Avengers (2012), Thor: The Dark World (2013, briefly), Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015), Ant-Man (2015), Captain America: Civil War (2016), Spiderman: Homecoming (2017), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), and Captain Marvel (2019). That is a long time, and a lot of films, to be playing one character, but nobody could possibly be Captain America besides Chris Evans. Except, of course, for the fact he will be retiring the role after one final film. His retirement comes alongside several of his superhero contemporaries including Chris Hemsworth (Thor) and Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man). But after close to a decade as the iconic Captain America, what will the 37-year-old actor do now? Whats next for Chris Evans? Heres what we know. Avengers: Endgame (2019) Marvel fans will get one last chance to see Chris Evans in his role as Captain America. Avengers: Endgame is set to hit theaters later this year, on April 26th. This final installment will be the conclusion of the current MCU story. Fans will remember when half of the universes population was wiped from existence at the end of Avengers: Infinity War which included half of the Avengers. The remaining Avengers must band together to once again stop Thanos, and figure out a way to undo the catastrophic things he did throughout the last movie especially in the final few moments. Knives Out (2019) Although the plot of Knives Out isnt yet known, the film has been described as a modern murder mystery in a classic whodunit style. The film is set to hit theaters late this year, on November 27, 2019. Chris Evans has been confirmed for the film, but his exact role hasnt yet been revealed. The Red Sea Diving Resort Chris Evans has been cast in the role of Ari Levinson in The Red Sea Diving Resort, which currently does not have a scheduled release date. The film is based on the true story of the rescue of Ethiopian Jewish immigrants, and their subsequent move to Israel in 1981. Jekyll Chris Evans | Anthony Harvey/Getty Images Talk show host, Ellen DeGeneres, will be producing this film. The only confirmed cast member so far is Chris Evans in the role of Tom Jackman. Jekyll promises to be a new view on the classic story of The Strange Case Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, first told in the 1886 book written by Robert Louis Stevenson. According to IMDB, Jekyll will take a look at the only living descendant of Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde. This descendant makes a deal with the dark side, and so begins his own strange case. Infinite Chris Evans will star as a man who begins having hallucinations in Infinite. At some point, he realizes that these are not just mere hallucinations but are actually visions from his past lives. There is no scheduled release date or full casting information available yet for Infinite. Defending Jacob Defending Jacob is a dramatic, limited television series that will consist of eight episodes. The plot is based on William Landays New York Times best selling novel (2012) by the same name. The show will also include the talents of Michelle Dockery and Jaeden Martell. The Food Network is known for featuring a number of stars who have fantastic personalities and even better recipes. And over the years, relative newcomer Ree Drummond has become a fan favorite. Known as The Pioneer Woman, the accidental country girl first attained fame through a blog and has built out her business from there. While shes now most well-known for her delicious comfort food, shes found a number of ways to build out her brand and become one of the most beloved stars of the network. It turns out Ree doesnt want fans to think of her as a big shot, however. Heres why the star highly dislikes when others say she owns an empire. Rees first business as a blogger kickstarted her rise to fame Ree Drummond (L) and Editor in Chief of Food Network Magazine Maile Carpenter | Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Hearst Just like Ree wasnt always a woman hoping to live in the country, she also wasnt always known for her recipes, either. Her fame actually began with a highly successful blog that she still keeps up with. The Pioneer Woman blog began in 2006, which People notes was 10 years after she began embracing rural life (we cant forget that she once had big aspirations to live in the city before meeting her husband, Ladd). As for why she started the blog, Ree wanted a place where she could discuss what ranch life was all about. She shared photos of her home and family, and later on, recipes. As her husband said, Being a mom and wife is very fulfilling but she obviously has a lot of creative talent and it needed an outlet. Forbes notes Ree even made it as No. 22 on the Forbes 2010 Web Celeb 25 list due to her unique and excellent content. As Ree said of her blog, Its a few moments of lightness in a day, and I think a lot of people enjoy the slice of ranch life that they wouldnt get to see. She now owns multiple businesses, all of which are highly successful Rees blog was obviously enough to begin her rise to fame, but she didnt stop with her Food Network show, either. Today reminds us back in 2012, Ree and Ladd bought an old general store in their small town of Pawhuska, Oklahoma, with big plans to turn it into something huge. Theyve since turned the space into The Mercantile, their own restaurant, bakery, general store, and country-chic shopping place spanning 25,000 square feet. Fans of the Drummonds line up every morning to get into The Merc, and they all swear by the excellent meals served there, too. And Ree didnt stop there. Shes also the proud writer of five best-selling cookbooks, a line of kitchen products, and a lifestyle magazine. Not only that, but shes managed to open an eight-room boutique hotel known as The Boarding House as well as a popular pizza restaurant. The Drummond family has single-handedly turned Pawhuska from ghost town to booming tourist destination. Heres why she hates when people say she owns an empire Today notes the Drummonds are employing over 250 people at The Mercantile and Boarding House alone, which is definitely impressive. But while Ree is obviously highly successful, she doesnt want her fans to think of her as owning an empire. As she said during a recent interview with CBS Sunday Morning, I just think of the word empire as being in a position where you can just sit and reflect on everything youve done, and I just dont have time to do that. Ive got too much to do today. Its clear Ree is no slouch, and she doesnt want her fans thinking shes not putting plenty of hard work into her multiple businesses, either. No matter what, we cant wait to see what she does next with her brand. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Being born into the royal family is a life of privilege, glitz, and glamor, and that is exactly what Baby Sussex is sure to experience. The birth of the first child of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle is eagerly anticipated by fans all over the world. While the baby is sure to be in the spotlight, especially at first, eventually all of that attention is sure to fade just a little as Meghan and Harry raise the child in the countryside town of Windsor, England. However, fans will still want to know as much about Baby Sussex as possible, which leads many people to wonder if Meghan and Harrys child will grow up in competition with his or her cousins, the Cambridge children? Prince George is a future king Although Prince William and Kate Middleton are choosing not to tell him until he is a little older, we cant forget about the fact that little Prince George will someday be ruling monarch of the United Kingdom. This is quite a role to undertake, and his sister and brother are currently right behind him in the line of succession. Meghan and Harrys child, however, is not in the direct line to the throne, and will more than likely never be king or q ueen . Princess Charlotte is currently the only girl With little Princess Charlotte currently being the only granddaughter of Prince Charles, she certainly garners a lot of attention! If Meghan and Harry should welcome a new son this spring, Charlotte will not lose her place as the only diva in the family! It is possible that this will create some competition between the new royal baby and the Cambridge children. Were Harry and William ever in competition with each other? Princes Harry and William are actually extremely close friends as well as brothers. As far as royal fans know, there was never anything more than friendly competition between the two, and it had nothing to do with the fact William is a future King! Harry was never jealous of or compared to his brother in any way, and he actually once said he is glad that he will never be the ruling monarch of the United Kingdom. Although the brothers have affectionately been called an heir and a spare by the British public and the world, it appears that there is no competition between the two. The cousins are likely to have playdates Prince George of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte of Cambridge | Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage Although Meghan and Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are choosing to leave the city of London in favor of a quieter life for their child, they will most certainly be bringing the baby to Kensington Palace in order to spend time with the Cambridge family. There is plenty of room at the palace for all of the children to run around and have a wonderful time as they grow up together. Many memories are sure to be made as the two families share experiences together and allow all of their children to be the best of friends. There isnt likely to be any competition Fortunately, it does not seem likely that there will be any competition between Baby Sussex and the children of Prince William and Kate Middleton. All of the parents are extremely close, so chances are, the children will be as well. With rumors of a royal feud between Meghan and Kate beginning to disappear, it would appear as if the sisters-in-law are becoming closer as time goes by, and will choose to raise their children together! The members of the Royal family are famously close, and it is good to know that Baby Sussex will be a welcome addition. The opening ceremony of the new avenue was held on Saturday in Stavropol, the press service of the head of the city informed, specifying that the avenue was entitled Student. The new avenue is located at the intersection of Lenin and Pushkin streets. The press service added that the regional Palace of Students will soon be opened in the city. In addition, the maintenance of the Academic Drama Theater will be performed as well, AiF Staropol reports. Yes, its beginning to look a lot like Christmaswhich, for many of us, feels like a rush into chaos. Celebrating Advent during this season slows us down and helps our hearts and minds be reoriented around the coming of Christ.Yes, its beginning to look a lot like Christmaswhich, for many of us, feels like a rush into chaos. Celebrating Advent during this season slows us down and helps our hearts and minds be reoriented around the coming of Christ. Opposition to reparations for slavery is of the devil, prominent SBC pastor says Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Prominent Southern Baptist Pastor Thabiti Anyabwile said conservative opposition to the idea of reparations for slavery is of the devil. In a series of tweets last Friday, Anyabwile, who leads Anacostia River Church in Washington D.C., argued that conservatives who believe the broadly unpopular idea of reparations for slavery and Jim Crow is about blacks who want to steal whites money appeared more concerned about the idolatry of money instead of righteousness. Im sad for folks who hear the word reparations, w/o any specific proposal attached, who start exclaiming, Blacks just want to steal whites money! Its a retort that reveals possible idolization of mammon and willful blindness to 250 years of stealing Black ppl themselves, Anyabwile began. And the hypocrisy of some self-professed conservatives who argue all day long that a person should be able to control their labor but who do not think any recompense is owed for CENTURIES of stolen labor is mind-blowing. Its a glaring inconsistency, he argued. Democrat presidential candidates, like former HUD Secretary Julian Castro, and Senators Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris, have expressed their support for reparations for slavery. They have yet to offer specific proposals. And, there is a debate among them about whether reparations means direct cash payments or can be broader policy programs, such as financial aid, aimed at reducing the racial wealth gap. Warren has also suggested that native Americans should be included. Anyabwile continued that Christians who argue that supporting reparations will only further divide the church is simply a continuation of gospel escapism that will do nothing for racial reconciliation. Then there are those who rush to tell us, Reparations wont bring reconciliation and will only further the divide. What omniscience! And as if the burying of our heads, refusing to acknowledge wrongdoing, and gospel escapism the church has been practicing is healing the divide, he said. The Anacostia River Church leader suggested that the refusal of Christians to even consider reparations as an effort to right the wrongs of slavery reflects a stronghold that is not of God. There are so many excuses tossed about and rejections even before an actual idea is offered that there appear to be strongholds at work. Perhaps the strategy should be to go back to some basic questions: 1. Was a wrong committed? 2. Is it right to right the wrong? Those are admittedly basic questions but it seems to be where a few Christians are stuck. If a *Christian* cannot answer an unequivocal yes to those questions then far more than debate about reparations is going on. More serious soul work is needed, Anyabwile argued. And if we cannot bear to entertain a third basic question3. What does God in His word require of me to right the wrong?then, as I said, Im sad for those Christians. These are the ABCs of moral reasoning. Nothing fancy. But is costly to follow Jesus. Thats cross carrying, he continued. More than money however, Anyabwile said he wants Christians to be free from historical and personal guilt over slavery. In the final analysis I want something much more profound than the countrys money. I want its moral and spiritual rectitude. I want Christians to follow the Way more fully with a glad heart. I want your freedom from guiltboth historical and where applicable personal, he said. The stronghold says you cant have these things or the cost is too high or the task too difficult or its unfair. But where does that reasoning come from when the topic is pursuing righteousness? Hint: it does not come from God or His word. Its the world, the flesh or the devil. I would have you walk in victory over the enemies Christ has defeated. I would have you walk in that faith which is our victory. I would have you walk in the obedience that comes from faith. But I would not coddle you. Following Jesus is costly. Itll cost more than your money, he added. John Carpenter, pastor of Covenant Reformed Baptist Church in Yanceyville, North Carolina shot back on Twitter however that: This is the kind of argument that creates social Justice Contras. When Anyabwile responded with three question marks however Carpenter took the opportunity to elaborate. Obviously taking money from one group of people none of whom actually participated in the wrong doing and many of whom dont have any ancestors who did to distribute it to others is divisive and sure to inflame racism. It doesnt take omniscience to reality (sic) that, Carpenter wrote. Anyabwile pushed back against Carpenters response by arguing that American society in general has benefited from slavery. I see. Yeah, except that enslavement, Jim Crow, discrimination policies were never solely individual acts. All of them were enshrined in law and policy, making them society wide practices and giving them sanction. The country benefited as is, therefore, guilty, he replied. If that stirs social justice Contras, so be it. Its the historical, legal and social facts. The monetary benefit to the country *as a whole* have been studied and documented. Im not buying into the overly individualized view that allows people to ignore these realities. Jeff Maples of Reformation Charlotte, an apologetics publication, argued that Anyabwiles reasoning is spiritually poisonous. The reality is, Thabiti has introduced and continues to push one of the most sinister of spiritual poisons not only that Christs sacrifice is insufficient to atone for sins, but that people of a certain skin color are guilty by that very virtue of generational sins, he wrote. During a CNN town hall in Mississippi Monday, Sen. Warren argued that she supports a serious national conversation of reparations because African Americans continue to suffer from the effects of slavery today. America was founded on principles of liberty and freedom and on the backs of slave labor. This is a stain on America. And were not going to fix that, were not going to change that, until we address it head-on, directly. And its not just the original founding. Its whats happened generation after generation, she said. The impact of discrimination handed down from one to the next means that today in America because of housing discrimination, because of employment discrimination, if the average white family has $100, the average black family has about $5. So I believe its time to start the national full-blown conversation about reparations in this country. And that means I support the bill in the House to appoint a congressional panel of experts, of people who are studying this, who talk about different ways we may be able to do it, and to make a report back to Congress so that we can as a nation do whats right and begin to heal, she added. Jason Riley, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute and Fox News commentator, criticized both Warren and Harris support for reparations. Sen. Elizabeth Warren told a town-hall audience in Jackson, Miss., Monday that its time to start the national, full-blown conversation about slavery reparations for blacks. Come again? Compensating black Americans for past oppression has been a subject of discussion for decades. The senators problem is that large majorities of the public have consistently opposed reparations, not that we dont talk about it, Riley wrote in the Wall Street Journal. Actress Taraji P Henson says Christians must model Jesus Christ, combat hate with love Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment NEW YORK Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson stars in the upcoming film The Best of Enemies, and like her character, Ann Atwater, she believes true followers of Christ are to display unconditional love, even to those who are hateful. The Best of Enemies tells the true story of an unlikely relationship between Ann Atwater (Henson), an outspoken civil rights activist, and C.P. Ellis, the president of the Durham chapter of United Klans of America (played by Oscar-winner Sam Rockwell). The pair unwittingly co-chaired a community summit in Durham, North Carolina, in the summer of 1971, just months after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the use of busing to desegregate schools. What followed would change Durham and the lives of Atwater and Ellis forever, as the two formed a friendship that lasted a lifetime up until Ellis' death in 2005. When asked about finding resolutions to racial tensions, Henson told CP that a Christian's role is to work to defuse the conflict that's around them. "If you're a person of Christ, and if you are a Christian, then that's what you do, that's what Jesus did. Jesus was nailed to a cross by people who hated Him, resurrected, and still loved those same people. So you have to tap into that if you are truly a Christian, she told The Christian Post. The love Atwater showed Ellis despite his innate hatred of black people as a KKK leader eventually broke through his contempt, and Henson describes that as a reflection of Gods heart. "When we talk about love, we talk about God's love. It's unconditional and love is the search for understanding, Henson said. So even the person you hate, if you want change you can't match it with hate or else nothing's going to change. Someone has to rise above and tap into love. And that's when she (Atwater) was able to get change." "It changed C.P.," Hensons co-star, Sam Rockwell, added. In the film, Ellis and Atwater talk about what helps them fight their battles. While Ellis says his gun does his fighting for him, Atwater replies that her Bible does her fighting for her. Rockwell claimed "acting" does his fighting for him. While Henson agreed, she admitted it goes a little further for her. Henson added: "But then, on a higher level, because we're all still just humans, I believe in a higher power because humans gonna hurt you. Your mother, your father, we're humans that's what we do, right? So I have a higher power. You call it whatever you want, I call it God and that's who fights my battles. Because some situations, I shouldn't have walked away from. So it had to be something bigger than me." Both Henson and Rockwell give award-worthy performances in The Best of Enemies. They truly embodied their characters' revolutionary roles and honored Atwater's and Ellis memories. "Because these are real people it was very important for both of us that we got it right," Henson said. "Even though they're not alive, they have family members that love them very much and we wanted it to do them a service. This story is very important and if we don't handle it well, then their lives were in vain. And we can't have that because their stories are too important. "I was scared to death to portray this, but I don't take roles if they don't scare me. Because if I'm not scared, I'm not going to transform. And if I don't transform, how's the audience going to transform? So she (Atwater) scared me because she was a real person, she continued. The Empire star said she loves to be challenged in the roles she takes on and Atwater, the sassy southern activist, was just that. "I'm a character actress, so the more I don't look like myself, the better. It was fun. I love playing different characters. Then when Sam signed on, I was like, 'This is gonna be so much fun,' because he's a character actor too. He disappears in all of his roles, Henson gushed. Henson further revealed that shes always looking to work with people who will inspire her to raise the bar. Rockwell likewise praised Henson, saying, "I probably wouldn't have done the film if it wasn't for Taraji. Taraji was the main reason. I'd played a racist before, I wasn't looking to play a racist again. But I was like, 'Well, this is an interesting character, it's an interesting story, and a chance to work with Taraji. And it's about change and love that it's an important story,' The Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri actor concluded. The Best of Enemies STXfilms hits theaters on April 5. For more information visit the movies website. When your child is struggling with suicidal thoughts, simply 'more faith' isn't the answer Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Kelly Rosati has four adopted children. Three of them have a serious mental illness. And one thing she doesnt like to hear is that her problems would be solved if her faith was stronger. This idea that as Christians, if we were just spiritual enough, that somehow Christianity teaches we wouldnt experience these things Ive seen so many people suffer and have their faith crumble because of those lies, Rosati said in an interview with Saddleback Church co-founder Kay Warren this week. After Rosati and her husband, John, were unable to have their own children, the couple began the adoption journey through the foster care system. Several of her children were born addicted to drugs or exposed to alcohol in utero, she said. Among her four children, three have dealt with suicidality. One has bipolar disorder and another has schizophrenia. Her children have been in and out of emergency rooms and residential psychiatric care facilities. One, the youngest, is currently at a residential facility. Its not exactly what she and her husband pictured when they first decided to grow their family through adoption. We wanted to create this family for these kids who didnt have one. We were going to watch 'VeggieTales' and do all the Christian things, said Rosati, who is vice president of community outreach at Focus on the Family. Instead, our lives have been full of hospitals, psychiatric wards, and the police and a lot of bad cuss words. Theres a grieving that comes from losing what you imagine. The first time signs of mental illness emerged was when one of her children was in middle school. The child was violent, had extreme mood swings and almost complete debilitation. We were completely undone. We had no idea what was happening, what to do, Rosati recalled. We were going day to day in complete survival mode. That child had very serious bipolar disorder and sometimes expressed the desire to commit suicide. When our child would weep in my arms and express thoughts of not wanting to be alive, what I felt was pure terror. On my inside, it was a terror like I had never known and a despairing and a franticness, the mother described. Rosati described life as hell. And Kay Warren, wife of Pastor Rick Warren, agreed, having had one of her own children struggle with mental illness and eventually take his own life. How hellish it is to have a child that you love with your entire heart and that you have done everything that you know to do, have sought all the mental health help, all the medication help, all the therapy help, all the prayers that youve prayed, all the Bible verse believing youve done, all the on the face crying in the night for your child, and still know they are facing an illness that will eat them alive if something doesnt happen, Warren said. I call that living on the edge of hell. Warrens son, Matthew, was around 12 when she realized that he was having suicidal thoughts. He had already been diagnosed with depression at age 7. I tucked him into bed and in the quiet as Im getting ready to walk out he asked me if I would kill him and put him out of his misery, Warren recalled, completely heartbroken to hear those words coming out of her childs mouth. Matthew ended up dying by suicide at age 27 in 2013. Warren said she had lived in denial for a long time, thinking her son would eventually outgrow his depression and become normal. But it never happened. Both Warren and Rosati recognized that many Christians are suspicious of or hesitant to seek help through therapy or a psychiatric clinic. Theyre also afraid of being judged as a bad parent if they try to get mental health help for their children. I want to say: none of that matters, Rosati stressed as she encouraged parents to get the help they need. The first time she and her husband decided to get residential treatment for one of their children some six years ago, Rosati felt like the world was coming to an end and she was scared about making the wrong decision. But after four straight years of daily violence from their child, including holes in the wall and blood drawn, they decided they could not continue that way. They had other children they needed to take care of as well. The day she dropped her child off at the residential treatment, she sobbed and even had to drive to the mountains of Colorado to be alone in a hotel room because of how undone she felt by everything. I felt almost incapable of functioning, Rosati said. But she wants parents to know that resources such as residential treatment are incredible blessings that exist int he community to help the kids who are really sick and who need more help than we can get them at home. Sometimes your kids are so sick they need an army to guard them. They need a staff to keep them safe, she said. Its wrong to think that you failed as a parent if you choose those treatment options, she stressed. Have a little compassion for ourselves in the midst of this, she advised parents. I believe my kids are still here today in part [due to] access to residential services. The journey is lonely. Though Rosati would like to have a group of people supporting her through all of this, there is a lot of misunderstanding. Some friends or relatives would tell her that her children just needed a spanking or more discipline or that she needed to pray more. People would regularly ask if her children were doing better. She got tired of saying no, he has schizophrenia. She commended Warren for her work in making more people aware of mental illness, debunking myths and saying its not a sin to be sick and that its OK to seek help. I shudder to think if you werent doing what youre doing so faithfully in the midst of your tragedy, how alone so many people like us would feel because there was no one that people would listen to saying no, dont tell people its not because they dont have enough faith, Rosati said. The Colorado mom was able to let go of her dream of a perfect family. I cant attach my well-being to the outcome. Thats tough when youre a mom, she noted. Shes confident that the Lord cares and now has more peace in the midst of what has been chaos. Rosati offered the following advice for parents whose children are struggling with mental illness or suicidal thoughts: Do not minimize your childs problems. Validate their feelings and be empathetic (as opposed to comparing their small problems to your own) If your child expresses suicidal intentions, do not diminish it and take it very seriously. Do not let the child out of your sight. "Uber nurture" or go full throttle nurture When your kids express any kind of emotional anguish, when they have taken the risk to share with you that they are suffering, do not shame, blame, judge or lecture them. Let every ounce of the love of Christ that is in you flow through you to them. Go to an emergency room and have the medical staff assess whether your child poses an immediate threat to him/herself or others Be open to and cooperate with the staff/therapists. Sometimes, an involuntary hold may be placed on your child and your child may be sent to a safe, locked-down psychiatric hospital (for a few days). Though it may feel like the end of the world, that feeling will pass. During this time, go home and sleep and thank God your child is safe. Always frame things with your child in terms of were going to get the help that you need so you can feel better and be home and be healthy and happy. Make sure your home is safe lock up the meds and weapons Consider residential treatment Get a lot of therapy (both Rosati and Warren can attest to that) Have open communication within your family (especially if you have other children who are not struggling). Encourage one another to be honest. Resources available Mental health support groups for caregivers: Nami.org Grace Alliance Phone numbers: 211 (if youre searching for mental health care as well as physical care) 1-800-273-8255 (Suicide Prevention Lifeline) 310-855-HOPE (Teen line) Conservative United Methodists gearing up for church court battle over Traditional Plan Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Theologically conservative members of the United Methodist Church are preparing to argue in front of the denominations highest court in defense of a plan approved last month to strengthen its stance against homosexuality and same-sex marriage. The United Methodist Judicial Council is scheduled to meet April 23-26 in Evanston, Illinois, to hear challenges to The Traditional Plan, a measure approved at the UMCs special session of General Conference last month. The official April docket includes two items: the first being from Pastor Timothy Bruster of the Central Texas Annual Conference requesting that the Judicial Council review the constitutionality, meaning, application, and effect of the adopted legislation referred to as the Traditional Plan. The second item came from the UMC Council of Bishops, who submitted a request on March 6 for the Judicial Council to determine the constitutionality of Petition 90066, which changes the denominations policy on congregation disaffiliation. According to a statement released March 6, the Council of Bishops opposed the petition, which allows for an easier dismissal process for congregations, including allowing them to keep their property and financial assets. The Rev. Thomas Lambrecht, vice president and general manager of Good News Magazine, told The Christian Post in an interview on Thursday that the Judicial Council will be considering the constitutionality of all parts of the Traditional Plan, with some parts having greater focus. They will determine which parts of the plan are consistent with the UM Church Constitution and can therefore be implemented as passed, explained Lambrecht. They will also be ruling on the disaffiliation petition that set a process for local churches to use in leaving the denomination while keeping their property and assets. They will determine whether that disaffiliation process is consistent with the UMC Constitution and therefore be able to take effect. Lambrecht added that his organization was assisting some General Conference delegates with arguments and legal briefs, explaining that only General Conference delegates have standing to present legal arguments on the Traditional Plan. Some opponents of the Traditional Plan have filed briefs arguing that the entire plan should be struck down. While noting that it was possible that the Judicial Council will agree, Lambrecht considered the likelihood of the Judicial Council doing so fairly low. Their operating principle is to try to save as much of any legislative package as possible. So it is more likely that the Judicial Council will only strike down those parts of the plan that do not pass constitutional muster, said Lamrecht to CP. Keith Boyette, president of the Wesleyan Covenant Association, told CP that he's serving as an advocate for one of the General Conference delegates who has been designated as an interested party in the proceedings. If the Judicial Council rules that a portion of the Traditional Plan is unconstitutional, such a ruling would not change the fact that the 2019 General Conference defeated the One Church Plan and reaffirmed the churchs teachings on marriage, ordination, and human sexuality, said Boyette. On Feb. 26, the UMC special session voted 438-384 in favor of adopting the Traditional Plan for resolving the denomination's internal debate over sexual ethics, which has threatened to bring schism to the denomination. The Traditional Plan succeeded largely because delegates representing Africa and other overseas regional bodies within the UMC voted overwhelmingly in favor of it. Conservatives within the denomination celebrated the vote result as an affirmation of sound Christian teaching while liberals within the denomination saw it as harmful to LGBT individuals. Normally, the Judicial Council releases a decision within days of the conclusion of a meeting. If the church court upholds the Traditional Plan, it will take effect on new years day 2020 for congregations based in the United States and then 12 months after the 2020 General Conference for congregations based outside of the U.S. The Story Behind the Ousting of Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment HARARE (Reuters) - Inside State House in Harare, Robert Mugabe was in the tightest spot of his 37-year rule. Tanks were on the streets and troops had occupied the state broadcaster, from where the army had announced it had taken control of Zimbabwe. Mugabe, 93 years old but still alert, remained defiant. The only leader the country had known since independence was refusing to quit. At a tense meeting with his military top brass on Nov. 16, the world's oldest head of state put his foot down: "Bring me the constitution and tell me what it says," he ordered military chief Constantino Chiwenga, according to two sources present. An aide brought a copy of the constitution, which lays out that the president is commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Chiwenga, dressed in camouflage fatigues, hesitated before replying that Zimbabwe was facing a national crisis that demanded military intervention. Mugabe retorted that the army was the problem, according to the sources present. Then the beleaguered president indicated that perhaps they could find a solution together. The meeting marked the start of an extraordinary five-day standoff between Mugabe and Zimbabwe's supreme law on one side, and the military, his party and Zimbabwe's people on the other. The generals wanted Mugabe to go, but they also wanted a peaceful "coup," one that would not irreparably tarnish the administration aiming to take over, according to multiple military and political sources. The president finally accepted defeat only after he was sacked by his own ZANU-PF party and faced the ignominy of impeachment. He signed a short letter of resignation to parliament speaker Jacob Mudenda that was read out to lawmakers on Nov. 21. Mugabe, who had run Zimbabwe since 1980 and overseen its descent into economic ruin while his wife shopped for luxury goods, was gone. The country erupted into ecstasy. Parliamentarians danced and people poured onto the streets in their tens of thousands to celebrate a political downfall that sent shockwaves across Africa and the world. To many, the end of Mugabe had been unthinkable only one week before. Reuters has pieced together the events leading up to Mugabe's removal, showing that the army's action was the culmination of months of planning that stretched from Harare to Johannesburg to Beijing. BITTER RIVALRY Drawing on a trove of intelligence documents from within Mugabe's feared Central Intelligence Organization (CIO), Reuters reported in September that the army was backing Emmerson Mnangagwa, then vice president, to succeed Mugabe when the time came. The report detailed how Mnangagwa, a lifelong friend and former security chief of Mugabe, might cooperate with Mugabe's political foes in order to revive the economy. It caused furore in Zimbabwe's media and political circles. Bitter rivalry intensified between Mnangagwa and Grace, Mugabe's 52-year-old wife, who also hoped to take over as president and had the backing of a ZANU-PF faction known as G40. In early October, Mnangagwa said he had been airlifted to hospital in South Africa after a poisoning attempt in August. He pointed no fingers - but he didn't need to. Grace's swift response was to deny it and accuse her rival of seeking sympathy; she belittled him as nothing but an employee of her husband, according to a report in the state-run Herald newspaper. As the pressure built, Mugabe became increasingly paranoid about the loyalty of army chief Chiwenga, a career soldier and decorated veteran of Zimbabwe's 1970s bush-war against white-minority rule. Mugabe's spies, who permeated every institution and section of society in Zimbabwe, were warning him the military would not accept Grace as president. "Mugabe is very worried of a coup," one intelligence report, dated Oct. 23, said. "Mugabe was openly told by senior CIOs that the military is not going to easily accept the appointment of Grace. He was warned to be ready for civil war." Reuters reviewed the document, and hundreds of other intelligence reports dating back to 2009, before the coup took place. The documents come from within the CIO, but Reuters could not determine for whom they were written. The CIO is split into factions, some pro- and some anti-Mugabe. In late October, Mugabe summoned Chiwenga to a showdown, according to another of the documents, dated Oct. 30. It said Mugabe confronted the army chief about his ties to Mnangagwa and told him that going against Grace would cost him his life. "Chiwenga was warned by Mugabe that it is high time for him to start following. He mentioned to Chiwenga that those fighting his wife are bound to die a painful death," the intelligence report said. At the same meeting, Mugabe also ordered Chiwenga to pledge allegiance to Grace. He refused. "Chiwengwa refused to be intimidated. He stood his ground over his loyalty to Mnangagwa," the report said. Reuters put questions about this exchange and other aspects of this article to Mugabe's spokesman, George Charamba. In an enigmatic text message dated Nov. 23, he replied: "Enjoy Reuters copy. Goodnight." Two spokesmen for Chiwenga declined to comment. After another tense meeting with Mugabe on Nov. 5, Chiwenga left Harare on a pre-arranged official trip and traveled to China, which wields significant influence as a major investor in Zimbabwe. A day later, Mugabe sacked Mnangagwa as vice president and purged him from ZANU-PF, the liberation movement that Mnangagwa had served since his youth and for which, as a young militant caught bombing a train, he had nearly been executed. For the generals, Mugabe had gone too far. The military immediately activated a "Code Red" alert, its highest level of preparedness, a military source said. ASSASSINATION PLOT Moments after Mnangagwa was ousted on Nov. 6, the security details assigned to him and his house were withdrawn, according to a statement he issued later. He was told his life was in danger. "Security personnel, who are friendly to me, warned me that plans were underfoot to eliminate me once arrested and taken to a police station," Mnangagwa said in a Nov. 21 statement. "It was in my security interest to leave the country immediately." From Harare, he managed to escape over the border into neighboring Mozambique, where he caught a plane to China, according to one source familiar with his movements. There he met up with Chiwenga, the source said. Reuters could not confirm the account; but an intelligence report from Nov. 13 indicates that Mugabe suspected some of his generals of preparing to overthrow him from China. "A number of generals are now in China ready to plot Mugabe's ouster with Mnangagwa," the report said. It was not clear which generals, and whether their travel to China was authorized. Mugabe's spies suspected old allies had turned against the aging president. An intelligence report, dated Oct. 30, said Beijing and Moscow both supported regime change out of frustration at Zimbabwe's economic implosion under Mugabe. "China and Russia are after change," the report said. "They are after change within ZANU-PF as they are sick and tired of Mugabe's leadership." "The two countries are even ready to clandestinely supply arms of war to Mnangagwa to fight Mugabe." Neither China's Defense Ministry nor Foreign Ministry responded to a request for comment. The Foreign Ministry had previously said Chiwenga's visit was "a normal military exchange mutually agreed upon by China and Zimbabwe." Reuters sent written requests for comment to the Kremlin, the Russian Defense Ministry and the Russian Foreign Ministry. None of them responded. China has long taken an interest in Zimbabwe, having supported Mugabe's forces during the liberation struggle. After independence it developed connections there in mining, security and construction. Russia has also had ties to Zimbabwe since the early 1980s, and in 2014 a Russian consortium entered into a partnership to develop a $3 billion platinum mining project in the country. Chiwenga's trip to China culminated in him meeting Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan in Beijing on Nov. 10. Two sources with knowledge of the talks told Reuters that Chiwenga asked if China would agree not to interfere if he took temporary control in Zimbabwe to remove Mugabe from power. Chang assured him Beijing would not get involved and the two also discussed tactics that might be employed during the de facto coup, the sources said. Reuters could not establish whether Mnangagwa met Chang. Having got wind of the talks in China, Mugabe summoned his still-loyal police commissioner, Augustine Chihuri, and his deputy, Innocent Matibiri, to detain Chiwenga on his return to Harare, government and security sources said. The pair assembled a squad of 100 police and intelligence agents. But the plot leaked and Chiwenga supporters managed to pull together a counter-team of several hundred special forces soldiers and agents as their commander's plane approached. Some were disguised as baggage handlers, their military fatigues and weapons hidden beneath high-visibility jackets and overalls, one security source said. Realizing they were outnumbered and outgunned, Chihuri's police team backed down, allowing Chiwenga to touch down without incident, the security source said. Mugabe's spokesman did not comment on the incident. "VERY ALARMED" Two days later, Chiwenga and a group of military commanders demanded a meeting with Mugabe at his official State House residence in Harare, an ornate colonial villa complete with stuffed leopards and thick red carpets, according to a government source. They said they were "very alarmed" at the firing of Mnangagwa and told Mugabe to rein in his wife and her G40 faction, whom they accused of trying to divide the military, according to the government official, who was present at the discussions. "What do you think should be done?" Mugabe demanded of the soldiers as he sat slumped in an armchair. The generals asked him to give assurances that they too would not be purged. Mugabe's response was lukewarm, the government source said. Chiwenga told Mugabe he would be making his concerns about the G40 faction public. Hours later, Chiwenga summoned reporters to the military's main barracks near Harare to issue a statement. "We must remind those behind the current treacherous shenanigans that, when it comes to matters of protecting our revolution, the military will not hesitate to step in," he said, reading from a prepared text. The following afternoon, Reuters reported six armored personnel carriers heading towards the headquarters of Mugabe's Presidential Guard on the outskirts of Harare. It was unclear whose command they were under. At the time, the city's residents were on edge but still unsure what it all meant. THE LINE WENT DEAD At around 6 p.m. on Nov. 14, Mugabe's motorcade headed to his private "Blue Roof" residence, a heavily fortified compound in the capital's leafy northern suburb of Borrowdale. Meanwhile, social media buzzed with pictures of armored vehicles driving along roads to Harare, sparking frenzied speculation about a coup. Increasingly concerned, Grace put in a call shortly after 7 p.m. to a cabinet minister asking to get WhatsApp and Twitter shut down, according to one source familiar with a recording of the conversation. The minister, whose identity Reuters is withholding for safety reasons, replied that such a move was the responsibility of state security minister Kembo Mohadi. "No-one will stand for a coup. It cannot happen," said Grace, commonly referred to as Amai, which means Mother, according to a source who heard the recording. Mugabe's voice is then heard on the line: "As you have heard from Amai, is there anything that can be done?" The minister gave the same response, about the responsibilities of state security, and the line went dead, the source said. Mohadi declined to comment. Two hours later, two armored vehicles rolled into the Pockets Hill headquarters of the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), according to ZBC sources. Dozens of soldiers sealed off the site and stormed into the studios where they accosted staff, snatching their phones and halting programs. State-owned ZBC, widely seen as a mouthpiece for Mugabe, switched to broadcasting pop music videos. Mugabe's inner circle, nearly all of them G40 loyalists, had no idea what was under way, according to four sources familiar with their conversations. Information Minister Simon Khaya Moyo called Defense Minister Sydney Sekeramayi to ask if he had any information about a possible coup. Sekeramayi said no, but tried to check with military chief Chiwenga. Chiwenga told Sekeramayi he would get back to him. According to the sources, Chiwenga never did. Moyo remains in hiding and was unavailable for comment. Sekeramayi declined to comment. SECURITY DETAIL As ministers in the G40 faction tried frantically to work out what was going on, Chiwenga's men closed in on Mugabe's compound. According to a source briefed on the situation, Albert Ngulube, a CIO director and head of Mugabe's security detail, was driving home around 9.30 p.m. after visiting Mugabe. He met an armored car on Borrowdale Brooke, a side road leading to Mugabe's house. When Ngulube confronted the soldiers and threatened to shoot them, they beat him up and detained him, the source said. Ngulube was later released, but had suffered head and facial injuries, the source added. Spokesmen for Chiwenga and Mnangagwa declined to comment. Reuters was unable to contact Ngulube. Other G40 ministers were also picked up by soldiers. Finance minister Ignatius Chombo was found hiding in a toilet at his house and beaten before being detained at an undisclosed location for more than a week. On his release on Nov. 24, he was hospitalized with injuries to his hands, legs and back, his lawyer told Reuters, describing the army's behavior as "brutal and draconian." Soldiers used explosives to blow the front door off the house of Jonathan Moyo, the main brains behind G40, according to video footage of the house seen by Reuters. Others burst through the front gates of the residence of local government minister Saviour Kasukuwere, another key Grace supporter. Both men managed to escape to Mugabe's residence. Contacted by Reuters shortly after midnight in the early hours of Nov. 15, Kasukuwere was audibly stressed. "I can't talk. I'm in a meeting," he said, before hanging up. For another week, Mugabe clung on to the presidency as Chiwenga and his forces tried to engineer a peaceful, and quasi-legal, exit for the long-serving leader. But as parliament began impeachment proceedings on Nov. 21, Mugabe finally gave up. After 37 years in control, during which much of his country fell into poverty, his letter of resignation said he was stepping down out of "concern for the welfare of the people of Zimbabwe." Trump signs executive order denying funds to universities that stifle free speech Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment President Trump signed an executive order Thursday stating that federal research grants will be withheld from colleges and universities that are hostile to free speech. The move comes on the heels of a promise the president made at CPAC, the nation's largest conservative political conference earlier this month, that he would act on what many consider a growing problem of the suppression of ideas on U.S. college campuses. "Were here to take historic action to defend American students and American values," the president said at the White House signing ceremony, surrounded by conservative students whose free speech had been stifled on their college campuses. "Theyve been under siege," he said of those standing up for free speech, particularly those challenging far-left views. He continued, "Under the guise of speech codes, safe spaces and trigger warnings, these universities have tried to restrict free thought, impose total conformity and shut down the voices of great young Americans like those here today." "We will not stand idly by and allow public institutions to violate their students' constitutional rights," Trump said, adding that if a college or university does not allow students to speak they will be denied funding. "It's that simple," he said. Crystallizing the hostility toward conservative students on university campuses was the recent assault of Hayden Williams, a student activist with Turning Point USA, who was working as a recruiter for the organization on the campus of University of California at Berkeley. In a scuffle that was caught on video and went viral online, Zachary Greenberg cursed at and punched Williams in the face on Feb. 19, giving him a black eye. Police arrested Greenburg, who is not a Berkeley student, on March 1, and he is now facing charges. Williams was present for the signing ceremony Thursday. According to Inside Higher Ed, the order directs federal agencies to make sure that universities are abiding by requirements already on the books, but it does not detail how the enforcement of the order is to be implemented. Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education, said the executive order was a "solution in search of a problem." "It is neither needed nor desirable, and could lead to unwanted federal micromanagement of the cutting-edge research that is critical to our nation's continued vitality and global leadership," Mitchell said. Yet the College Republican National Committee praised the move. "College campuses are ground zero in the campaign by the liberal left to shut down conservative dissent," said Chandler Thornton, CRNC chairman, in an interview with Politico. "President Trump's executive order is critically needed because college and university bureaucrats have absolutely failed to protect free speech on campus." Stanley Kurtz, senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, noted that almost every campus already has a "never-enforced rule against shout-downs." "Whats going to happen when a school refuses to discipline a manifest violation of that rule? Kurtz asked in his National Review blog. "Shout-downs arent exactly secret. Youre likely to catch the next one on a viral video. Even if regulators would prefer to do nothing, inaction in the face of video evidence will be difficult." Thus, he stressed, the Trump administration's move sets in motion a new, important dynamic on campus. "The administration will either actively enforce the new rule, or be publicly attacked by its base for refusing to do so in the face of obvious violations. In many perhaps most cases, university offices of legal counsel will remove unconstitutional policies well before regulators even act," he said. Public universities applying for federal grants would have to show they are in compliance with the First Amendment, which already applies to them; private universities, however, have more flexibility in limiting speech, but would have to commit to their own institutional rules, Fox News reported Thursday. World Help facilitating aid to help Zimbabwe recover in aftermath of devastating Cyclone Idai Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A Virginia-based Christian aid group is facilitating relief to Zimbabwe following a devastating cyclone earlier this week. Cyclone Idai, which besieged southern Africa last Sunday, tore across Mozambique with over 100 miles per hour winds and struck Zimbabwe with brutal force, causing floods and landslides. The nation has declared a state of emergency. In an interview with Mark Hogsed, vice president of global programs for World Help, said their ministry partner on the ground has explained to them that the storm hit an area where people were already struggling, compounding the problem. The heavy rains and winds accompanied by floods carried many away in their sleep, while homes also collapsed. Hundreds have lost their lives and many more remain missing, he explained. "Zimbabwe has constantly struggled with food insecurity even in some of their [better] times, so this is further complicating the food shortages" as the cyclone has wreaked havoc on their crops. "We're trying to meet their most urgent needs with food and personal care kits," he said. Sources have informed World Help that the lack of clean water is a major issue as wells and water pipes have been damaged as have roads and sources of power. World Help's efforts are focused on assisting the Chipinge and Chimanimani in Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe, largely rural communities. Limited communication remains an issue and some areas are still inaccessible and have yet to be reached. "An estimated 1,000 homes were washed away and damaged. About 15,000 people were affected directly are now homeless," Hogsed said. In cooperation with their ministry partners World Help is aiming to reach 1,000 households, approximately 5,000 people, over the next few months. But beyond sending physical resources, the humanitarian organization is calling on people to also provide spiritual hope for victims and pray for the disaster-stricken nation. Hogsed stressed that it's essential Christians not allow the dire situation in Zimbabwe to become "just another news story that is out-of-sight and out-of-mind." "We have to be diligent in praying for each and every person affected by this disaster. It's also important to understand the challenges in a nation like Zimbabwe in mobilizing aid from one portion of the country to another portion to the country. There are challenges there and it's not easy, it doesn't go quickly, communication can be difficult," he said. "While this disaster will be out of our news cycle in a couple of days, it's going to take months, even years, for Zimbabwe, for Mozambique and Malawi and those affected areas to recover. Life is not going to get back to normal for them for quite some time." World Help is asking for donations of $50 which will provide food, water, hygiene supplies, and infant care kits for those affected, he said. People are terrified. Theyre wondering if their lives will ever be the same. Please stop whatever youre doing and pray on behalf of families impacted by this cyclone, said Vernon Brewer, founder of World Help in a statement to The Christian Post. Yes, we must provide help so they may survive this disaster, but we also must send them hope through our prayers so they know they are not forgotten and they still have a future, Brewer said. World Help was founded in 1991 and is headquartered in Forest, Virginia. Russian traveler Fedor Konyukhov, who is in a round-the-world expedition, has been caught in a storm as severe as hurricane, his wife Irina told journalists. According to her, now the traveler is in a very difficult situation. He is liying fastened and trying to survive the storm. He writes every hour, the messages are short, like, Im fine, " TASS quotes Konyukhova as saying. Zimbabweans 'Confused, Anxious' Over Alleged Coup Against President, Christian Leaders 'Disturbed' Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Christian leaders are speaking out amidst the growing uncertainty in Zimbabwe following the alleged coup against President Robert Mugabe, with some saying they are "disturbed" at what is unfolding. Bishop Abel Gabuza of Kimberley, who chairs the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference justice and peace commission, told Catholic News Service on Wednesday that "we are very disturbed at what's happening" in neighboring Zimbabwe. "This is the price one pays when the democratic process has been undermined for so long" Gabuza said, adding that the latest developments have "all the ingredients of a coup." As Sky News reported, military in Zimbabwe have taken control of key government buildings in Harare, the capital, including the state broadcaster, while Mugabe has been placed under military guard. Major General SB Moyo has denied that there has been a coup, however, and has claimed that the 93-year-old president is still in charge of the country. BBC News added on Thursday morning that Mugabe, who led the nation for 37 years, is still under house arrest, and is resisting pressure to resign. The military decided to act against the controversial president on Wednesday after Mugabe decided to back his wife, Grace, to succeed him as leader against her rival Emmerson Mnangagwa, the former vice-president who he fired for "disloyalty and deceit." The power struggle has apparently divided the ruling Zanu-PF party, creating further strife in the economically hard-hit country. The Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations met in Harare in the midst of the crisis, and have called for an interim government to be formed to "oversee the smooth transition to a free and fair election." The Christian leaders added that citizens are "confused and anxious about what has transpired and continues to unfold in our nation." They also said that the military needs to know that "it is their responsibility to ensure that human dignity and rights are respected." The church representatives explained that although big changes have come in the past few days, "the real deterioration has been visible for everyone to see for a long time." The Christian leaders said that there is "no chasm that is too big not to be crossed through the power of reconciliation," however, warning that "without reconciliation and openness to a process of shared national envisioning, we are all doomed." South Africa has sheltered millions of economic refugees that have arrived from Zimbabwe over the past decades, with many blaming Mugabe's policies for the country's financial troubles. "We hope a resolution is found soon," Gabuza added, noting that the southern African region needs a "politically and economically stable Zimbabwe." Reuters reported that Catholic priest Fidelis Mukonori is acting as a middle-man between Mugabe and military officials, with talks seeking for a smooth transition of power. The president has been resistant to the mediation by the priest, the intelligence source said, however, with his future very much unclear. Despite the political drama unfolding in the country, there have not yet been reports of violence or unrest on the streets. Tendai Biti, a Zimbabwean opposition leader, told BBC that there needs to be a transitional authority. "It is urgent that we go back to democracy," Biti said. "It is urgent that we go back to legitimacy but we need a transitional period and I think, I hope, that dialogue can now be opened between the army and Zimbabweans." Franklin Graham meets sanctioned Russian official, says VP Pence approved of his trip Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Leading American evangelical Franklin Graham recently met with a Russian official sanctioned by the U.S. government during a trip to Moscow that he says Vice President Mike Pence wholeheartedly supported. At the beginning of March, the 66-year-old Graham, the chair of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, visited with religious and political leaders in Moscow. In addition to a meeting he had with Russian Orthodox Bishop Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and evangelical leaders, Graham also met with the leader of the lower house of the Russian Federal Assembly, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin. As reported by the left-leaning news site Think Progress, Volodin is among seven Russian government officials sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department in 2014 on grounds that Russian leadership failed to take concrete steps to deescalate the situation of Russias unlawful actions in Ukraine. The sanctions came weeks after Russia annexed the Ukranian territory of Crimea. The Treasury Department stated that Putins decision to move into Crimea is believed to have been based on consultations with his closest advisers, including Volodin. At the time, Volodin was the first deputy chief of staff of the Presidential Executive Office. According to a picture of the meeting posted by the State Duma Instagram page on March 4, Graham and Volodin talked about their views on the state of U.S.-Russia relations and the implementation of humanitarian projects. Additionally, they discussed the possibility of intensifying contacts between the State Duma and the U.S. Congress. In his own Instagram post from March 6, Graham said it was an honor to meet Volodin and called him a gracious man. Graham explained that Volodin told him his grandfather was a priest who was killed by communists for baptizing children in the river. Remember to keep him in your prayers, Graham asked his followers. The Christian Post asked Graham for a comment on his meeting with Volodin but was informed that he is traveling to a remote part of Alaska and is unable to provide comment at this time. In an interview with a Russian state-operated news outlet, Graham, who is also head of the evangelical humanitarian organization Samaritans Purse, explained that he was not dissuaded from going on the trip. Graham has been a vocal supporter of the Trump administration and has on occasion participated in events for evangelical leaders at the White House. Although the trip comes at a time in which many questions still surround Russias and other countries' interference in the 2016 presidential election, and allegations by Democrats that the Trump campaign was involved in collusion, Graham explained that he talked with Vice President Mike Pence personally about his trip before leaving. [B]efore I left home, I called up with Vice President Mike Pence to inform him that I was going to Moscow, Graham was quoted as saying. He was very happy to hear this news. And he admitted that he wholeheartedly supported my decision. Grahams trips to Russia come as American evangelicals have been working build ties with religious leaders in Russia for some time. Grahams trip earlier this month was not the the first time he has traveled to Russia or has met with high-profile Russian government officials. In 2015, Graham met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to one of Grahams social media posts from 2017. In October of that year, Graham traveled to Moscow and met with Patriarch Kirill to discuss Christian persecution worldwide, the global refugee crisis and the need to reach the younger generation brought up in secular schools and secular culture. As a result of that visit, Graham announced in 2016 that the BGEAs World Summit in Defense of Persecuted Christians will be held in Moscow. But later that year, Graham and BGEA moved the summit out of Russia to Washington, D.C. because Putin signed a law severely limiting religious liberties and legal evangelism. Critics feared the law is unfair for evangelicals and other believers who were not part of Orthodox Christianity. Even though the event was not held in Moscow, a delegation from the Russian Orthodox Church was invited to take part in the D.C. Summit. In Grahams meeting with Kirill this month, the two again discussed how the Russian youth can be reached with the Gospel. Graham took part in a ceremony organized by the Russian Orthodox Church launching a book it published containing 50 of Billy Grahams (Grahams father) sermons. I appreciate his strong stand with biblical truth on issues such as abortion. In a world where many church leaders are losing their moral voice, @PatriarchKirill is refreshing, Graham wrote. Graham added that he also met with evangelical leaders in the country while he was there. Im meeting with the Russian churches on how we can share with more young people about faith in Jesus Christ! Graham wrote in a March 3 Instagram post. Thats not collusion, but it is collaboration for the sake of souls. Trump has reportedly met with Putin on different occasions since taking office and has taken heat from media over the fact that the meetings were done in private and were not recorded. Upon his first meeting with Putin in 2018, Graham praised Trump. Nothing would be easier politically than to refuse to meet, to refuse to engage, but that would not accomplish anything, Graham wrote in a social media post last July. I would rather take a political risk in pursuit of peace than to risk peace in pursuit of politics." Pro-life activists win right to protest outside Ohio abortion clinic Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A district court judge ruled that two pro-life activists, a father and a daughter, have the right to protest outside of an Ohio-based abortion clinic. Last August, Calvin Zastrow and his daughter, Corrie, filed a complaint in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio against the city of Toledo, its police chief and two officers over being stopped from holding demonstrations outside an abortion clinic. Judge James G. Carr issued a consent judgment and order on Tuesday in favor of the Zastrow family, concluding that the pro-life activists can engage in non-obstructive, expressive activity when demonstrating against the clinic. The parties agree that the term non-obstructive, expressive activity means activity protected by the First Amendment that does not physically prevent a pedestrian from using a public sidewalk or other public way or that does not physically impede a vehicle from traveling on a public road or street, wrote Judge Carr. This does not mean that the person or persons engaging in the First Amendment activity must be moving all the time. Additionally, the First Amendment activity is not obstructive because a pedestrian might have to walk around the person engaging in the expressive activity. As part of the order, the defendants will also pay the American Freedom Law Center, which represented the Zastrow family, $7,500 in attorneys fees and costs. AFLC Co-Founder and Senior Counsel Robert Muise said in a statement released Wednesday that the order was yet another victory for the First Amendment. As this court order demonstrates, the Constitution protects our clients pro-life activity from such abuse, stated Muise. The government has no authority to silence our clients speech simply because they are preaching the Gospel on a public sidewalk next to an abortion center. In August of last year, the Zastrows filed suit over multiple incidents in which Toledo police forced them to stop holding religious pro-life protests on the public sidewalk across the street from the Capital Care Network. For example, one incident that took place on Oct. 3, 2017 involved Calvin being arrested for reading the Bible and preaching as he stood across the street from the abortion provider. "At no time prior to his arrest, did Plaintiff Calvin Zastrow enter upon the property of the Capital Care abortion center nor did he impede or block anyone from entering the abortion center. He remained on the public sidewalk. At no time did Plaintiff Calvin Zastrow engage in any violence," explained the lawsuit filed last year. "At no time did Plaintiff Calvin Zastrow employ any sound amplification device. He only used his voice and the spoken word. At no time did Plaintiff Calvin Zastrow physically block anyone from using the public sidewalk the sidewalk is large enough to permit several people to walk on it at one time, as ... photographs ... demonstrate." Google banned Christian YouTube ad on homosexuality after backlash from employees Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A video advertisement informing people on the Bibles teachings on homosexuality was banned by Google-owned YouTube and ruled to be counter to the organizations mission. The Daily Caller News Foundation has reported that a Google vice president in June 2018 moved to prohibit a video advertisement from Messianic Jewish Radio host Michael Brown from being advertised on YouTube after employees called the video homophobic. The video in question is titled Can you be gay and be a Christian? and was posted on Browns AskDrBrownAccount. In the video, Brown, an author, host of the "Line of Fire" podcast, and contributor to The Christian Post and other publications, argues that homosexual sex is a sin. Although he argues it is no worse than other sins, he states that Christians are called to abstain from sinful behavior. According to internal Google communications obtained by the Daily Caller, the video was flagged in an internal listserv newsletter called Yes at Google. The newsletter is run by Googles human resources and is sent to over 30,000 employees. The listserv is devoted to addressing microaggressions and micro-corrections within the company. Highlighted in the listserve was a comment from an employee who stated that Browns advertisement was appearing in channels operated by gay and lesbian users. I cannot see how this can be allowed when the specific idea of LGBT videos is to allow the creators to feel free to share their content and be comfortable that anti-LGBT advertisers would not be attached to their content, the employee reportedly wrote. This seems very counter to our mission, specifically around PRIDE 2018 timeframe. After backlash to Browns videos advertising continued to grow among employees, Google vice president for product management and ads, Vishal Sharma, declared that the video would no longer be eligible to run as an advertisement. Although she stated that YouTube is an open platform that supports the free expression of creators with a wide range of views, Sharma reportedly explained in a comment published by the listserv that we dont allow advertising that disparages people based on who they are. This also includes peoples sexual orientation. [W]e remove ads that violate this basic principle, she stated. After careful and multiple reviews over the course of a few days, our teams decided to remove the ad in question here as it violates our policy. Weve communicated this to the advertiser and have been in touch with creators who have been actively engaged on this issue. The Christian Post reached out to Google for comment on the Daily Caller article and for confirmation of Sharmas comments. A response is pending. Brown responded to the Daily Caller article in an op-ed titled Google v. Gods word. Although Sharma accuses his video of disparaging people, Brown asserts that his video showed no hatred toward the LGBT community and just simply shared Gods word. I did not disparage anyone on the video. Not once, he stressed. I simply stated what Gods Word says, simply and clearly and directly. While some could argue that Browns assertion that someone cant be a true follower of Christ if they openly practice homosexuality is disparaging, he maintains that he simply repeated what Gods word says and what the Synagogue and Church have believed for millennia. Not only so, but in the video I made clear that no one is condemned for having feelings or attractions, he detailed. The issue is whether we act on those feelings or attractions. And that, in fact, is our choice. Brown said he believes that Googles battle right now is with the Bible. [This means] that, if I simply produced a video reading relevant Bible verses on the subject, that video would not be suitable for advertising either, he warned. It would be one thing if Google said, 'Lets be sure this video is only advertised on conservative Christian channels.' That would have been perfectly fine, and we would have fully respected that. Our goal was to equip believers with truth, not provoke LGBT viewers on their own channels. But that was not to be. Google software engineer Mike Wacker first spoke out against the Yes at Google listserv in a Twitter thread last week where he stated that HR is involved in describing sincere religious beliefs as homophobic. [T]his newsletter has also enabled a call-out culture where small incidents or opposing viewpoints are called out with big words: misogynistic, racist, homophobic, etc, Wacker wrote. Employees call out each other and sometimes call out Google's users. In addition to banning his video from being advertised, Browns YouTube account has also been demonetized based on a decision he can not appeal. This means that the account cant earn money from advertising posted to the accounts videos. Administrators claimed that Browns account was demonetized due to re-used copywrited content. His account was ruled not to comply with YouTube Partner Program terms. There are a handful of videos that we received notice about for using a music clip or TV clip that they claimed was not fair usage. But in each case, they made clear this was not a strike against us, that we were not in any trouble with them, and that there was nothing we needed to do, Brown explained. In the end, a few of those videos were demonetized based on these alleged copyright violations. When Brown asked for clarification on the decision to demonetize the account, he received an email back explaining that administrators could not provide him with specific details as to what led them to this decision. Of course, we will push back every way we know how, first because these are unfair business practices and second because pushing back against YouTubes double standards is the thing to do, Brown stated. And while I cant say for sure that this happened to us because we are outspoken, conservative, Bible believers, I can say with certainty that Google/YouTube has certainly made clear where it stands on these issues. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Over the past week, Senior Colson Fellow Glenn Sunshine has taken to Facebook to do something that much of the mainstream mediato its discredithas neglected to do: alerting people to what is happening to Christians in places like Nigeria. Last summer on BreakPoint, I talked about the violence targeting Christians in whats known as the middle belt of Nigeria. The population of Nigeria is almost evenly divided between Muslims and Christians. That religious split largely follows geographic lines: The northern part of the country is predominantly Muslim, the eastern and southern parts of the country heavily Christian. The Middle Belt is, as you probably guessed, ethnically and religiously diverse. In this part of the country, Christians have been on the receiving end of a campaign that Open Doors calls religious cleansing, that is, an attempt to eradicate Christianity from the region. One of the most notorious Islamist groups in the world, Boko Haram, is responsible for killing thousands of Christians and displacing countless more in northern Nigeria. But Boko Haram isnt the only group targeting Christians there. In late June, Christian leaders claimed that over 6,000 personsmostly children, women and the agedhave been maimed and killed in night raids by armed Fulani herdsmen. The Fulani are an ethnic group that are overwhelmingly Muslim, and for the record, their raids are not always at night. In their statement, Nigerian Christian leaders also complained about the continuous abduction of under-aged Christian girls by Muslim youths These girls are forcefully converted to Islam and taken in for marriage without the consent of their parents. While Open Doors calls what is happening in the Middle Belt religious cleansing, Nigerian Christian leaders have called it genocide, and not without good reason. Under the International Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide, genocide consists of action intended to destroy in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial or religious group. The actions can include killing members of the group, causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group, and forcibly transferring children of the group to another group, among other things. All three of these things are happening in Nigeria right now. Where is the Nigerian government in all of this? At best, nowhere to be found. Officials are downplaying, if not outright denying, any religious dimension of whats happening. Instead, theyre calling this a conflict over resources, in this case, over land. This denial conveniently glosses over the one-sided nature of the violence in the region: The Fulani and Boko Haram are the hammers and the Christians are the nails. Did I mention that the president of Nigeria is the son of a Fulani chief? Since I told you about this campaign of extermination last summer, the violence against Christians has continued unabated. Since February alone, according to the Baptist Press and the Barnabas Fund, nearly 300 Christians have been killed and thousands more displaced. Yet, the mainstream media here in the States remains mum. Which is why Glenn is using his Facebook to bring this to peoples attention. As tempting as it is to speculate why we arent hearing about it, that wont do our Nigerian brethren a bit of good. It wont put pressure on our government to speak up, or on the Nigerian government to do its basic duty and protect all of its citizens. What will help is emulating what people like Glenn Sunshine and Mindy Belz of WORLD Magazine are doingusing the channels and forums available to them to spread the word. What will help is becoming knowledgeable about what is happening to Christians in Nigeria and around the word. We are living in a new age of religious persecution and even martyrdom. This kind of intentional and thoughtful engagementalong with, of course, our most important efforts of consistent and concerted prayeris our brethrens best chance at relief. Its a task we all must embrace. Resources Nigerias killing spree, Nigerias killing spree Mindy Belz | WORLD magazine | March 18, 2019 Militia attacks claim 120 lives since Feb, CSW.org.uk | March 14, 2019 Pure Genocide in Nigeria: Christians Under Attack, John Stonestreet | BreakPoint.org | July 10, 2018 Gerald McDermott: Religious Cleansing in Nigeria, John Stonestreet |BreakPoint.org | July 16, 2018 280 Christians killed in attacks in Nigeria, Diana Chandler | Baptist Press | March 18, 2019 Over 300 Nigerian Christians slain in merciless killing spree by Fulani militants since February, Barnabasfund.org | March 19, 2019 Originally posted at Breakpoint. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Last Thursday in The Federalist, Chris Humphrey continued our discussion about the factors behind the 50 percent decline in the U.S. abortion rate since 1980. Humphrey continues to argue that the increase in the number of pregnancy help centers provides the best explanation for the long-term decline in the U.S. abortion rate. He also argues there has not been a significant shift in public attitudes toward abortion. However, I argue that a closer examination of public opinion data indicates there has been a shift in abortion attitudes, especially among young people. Furthermore, pro-life efforts to change hearts and minds will continue to be an important pro-life objective for a variety of reasons, including helping pregnancy help centers accomplish their lifesaving missions. As I said in my previous Federalist article, public opinion on sanctity of life issues is nuanced and can be analyzed in different ways. That said, I want to emphasize a few points here. First, the General Social Survey (GSS) provides the best long-term data on abortion attitudes. They have been asking the same six questions on abortion since the early 1970s. These questions include hard cases, such as whether abortion should be a legal option when the pregnancy results from a rape. They also include cases where more people would feel comfortable restricting abortion, such as where the woman is married and does not want additional children. The GSS collects a great deal of demographic data from respondents and is the dataset most frequently used by public opinion scholars. Interestingly, for each of the six General Social Survey questions, public attitudes have shifted in a more pro-life direction since the mid 90s. Humphrey downplays the shift in attitudes among young adults saying that the change is very slight. However, the fact that young adults ages 18 to 29 went from the age demographic most sympathetic to abortion in the 70s to the age demographic least sympathetic in the aughts is certainly evidence of an important shift in public attitudes. It is also a question that has engaged prominent public opinion researchers. Many are puzzled by this shift in abortion opinion among young people. The best predictors of pro-life sentiment are religiosity and conservative views on sexual issues. However, the current generation of young adults is not particularly religious and tends to have fairly liberal attitudes toward premarital sex. Another important point is that abortion rates are not declining uniformly among various age demographics. In 2014, my Lozier Institute colleague Susan Willis analyzed the decline in the abortion rate between 1990 and 2010. During this time period, it fell by 35 percent. However, the age demographic that showed the largest-percentage decline were those aged 15-19, whose abortion rate fell by 71 percent. Similarly, young adults aged 20-24 saw their abortion rate fall by 52 percent during that time period. Older demographics showed smaller declines in percentage terms. It is certainly likely that changing attitudes among young people might be playing a role in these large abortion rate declines. The data Humphrey presents from Pittsburgh on the outreach efforts of Vision for Life is certainly interesting. However, more rigorous analysis of the impact of pregnancy help centers is needed. The Charlotte Lozier Institute, where I am an associate scholar, supports research that assists pregnancy help centers in their lifesaving mission. I am working on an academic paper on the effect of pregnancy help centers on state abortion rates. I will be presenting this paper at the annual meeting of the Midwest Political Science Association this spring, and I look forward to sharing my results with both the pro-life and academic community. Regardless of my findings, however, shifting public opinion in a pro-life direction will always remain an important policy objective for pro-lifers. If nothing else, gains in pro-life sentiment will improve the efficacy of pregnancy help centers and allow them to continue their vital, lifesaving work. States with a strong pro-life sentiment have been far less likely to enact burdensome regulations intended to hamper the work of pregnancy help centers. Similarly, a woman facing an unintended pregnancy will be far more likely to seek out the services of a pregnancy help center if she and others around her are sympathetic to the pro-life message. Legislative, educational, and service efforts all continue to play a crucial role in building a culture of life in the United States. Originally posted at thefederalist.com Michael J. New is a Visiting Associate Professor at Ave Maria University and an associate scholar at the Charlotte Lozier Institute. Follow him on Twitter @Michael_J_New Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Weve heard it taught for years. Jesus is coming like a thief in the night, so be ready. He could come at any moment, without any warning, so stay alert. You dont want to be left behind! I remember hearing this teaching when I first came to faith in 1971. The signs were all there. The prophecies were being fulfilled in front of our eyes. You could feel it in the air. Jesus was about to rapture His church to catch us away at any moment. Hal Lindseys mega-bestseller The Late Great Planet Earth laid it all out, and the countdown had clearly begun. Well be out of here any second now. But that was a long time ago, almost 50 years now. And still, Jesus hasnt returned. Of course, from 1995-2007, there was the mega-bestselling series of Left Behind novels by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins, and they fascinated and inspired a new generation of readers. But still, with all the talk of Jesus coming any day now, with all the excitement about the prophecies being fulfilled, the Lord has not yet returned. Have our expectations been wrong? Are we following a popular, relatively modern teaching rather than the Scriptures? Without a doubt, the New Testament proclaims that Jesus will return to earth and establish His kingdom. And without a doubt, the New Testament calls us to live with readiness and expectation. We can all agree on that. But does the New Testament teach that, for true believers, Jesus will come suddenly, like a thief in the night, without any signs? Or, to the contrary, does it teach that His coming will not be like a thief in the night for godly believers, since we are awake and alert, fully aware of the signs of the times? To be clear, I dont doubt for a moment that were living in prophetic times. The gospel is spreading all over the world in unprecedented fashion, just as the Scriptures predicted. Out of the ashes of the Holocaust, Israel has been rebirthed and Jerusalem remains at the center of world attention, again, in accordance with the prophets words And around the globe, Christians are being brutally persecuted for their faith, mowed down by the hundreds and thousands. This too is in harmony with Scripture, which speak of the last days as times of great blessing and great upheaval, of great light and great darkness, or great victory and great conflict. But what if the teaching of an any-minute rapture, followed by the Second Coming of Jesus 7 years later is not biblical? What then? And what if, rather than being rescued from a time of Great Tribulation, God will enable us to endure and overcome while in the midst of it? When I came to the Lord in 1971, I learned about this pre-tribulation rapture just as I learned about all the other fundamentals of the faith. This was basic. This was Bible. This was truth. But the more I read the Bible, day and night, for hours, and the more I memorized the Bible (for a period of time, memorizing 20 verses a day), the more I realized I didnt learn this doctrine from the Scriptures. I learned it from other books. Once I went back to reading the Scriptures alone, without other commentary or interpretation, delving into the Hebrew and Greek as best as I could, I concluded that the pre-tribulation rapture was not scriptural. I was not that surprised, then, to learn that the doctrine was virtually unknown throughout Church history until the 1830s. That being said, some of my best friends believe in a pre-tribulation rapture. Some of the finest Christians on the planet believe in it, as do some of the best Bible teachers. I dont divide over this issue, and I dont fight over it. But when an editor approached me, along with my friend Craig Keener, one of the worlds foremost New Testament scholars, and asked us to write a book on the subject, we felt that now was the right time. Our new book, Not Afraid of the Antichrist: Why We Dont Believe in a Pre-tribulation Rapture, is hot off the press. And as expected, its already being bashed and criticized by people who say they wont read it. How interesting! Why is the book so threatening? Why do some Christians take this so personally? Within the Church, there have been competing views about the end-times for centuries, and we can agree to disagree with love and respect. But why is it that, for some, just questioning whether the Bible really teaches a pre-tribulation rapture is like poking them in the eye or insulting their own mother? Why is this such a sacred cow? Readers of the book will see that Prof. Keener and I do not bash those with whom we differ, and they will see that we examine opposing views with fairness and grace. And above all, readers will see that our book is meant to encourage, to remind us that in Jesus, we are overcomers. Readers will also be reminded that throughout Church history, right until this moment, our fellow-believers are suffering atrocities for the gospel being burned alive, buried alive, beheaded, tortured, imprisoned, and exile. Yet, in Pauls words, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37). This is our theme as well. So, we invite you to read our book, to reflect on what we have written, to examine the Scriptures afresh, and to join us, whatever your conclusions might be, in earnestly desiring our blessed hope, the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus the Messiah (Titus 2:14). Maranatha! Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment For many years, Swedish authorities have been deporting Christians to countries where Christians are persecuted and killed. Countries like Afghanistan, which Open Doors describes as the second most dangerous country for Christians in the world, second only to North Korea. This is an ongoing crisis: several Christians were deported from Sweden to Afghanistan just a few weeks ago, and more deportations are planned to take place soon. Swedish authorities motivate these human rights abuses by claiming that the asylum seekers arent "real" Christians. I have previously written about the absurd questions they use in order to "discern" this, questions like "What does Matthew 10:34 say?" and "Can you describe the sacraments?" I made a test that included these questions and let tens of thousands of Swedish Christians try it out. Only 300 people managed to get more than 60% correct answers. Clearly, these kinds of questions dont show whether youre a Christian or not. The Swedish Migration Board have defended the usage of questions like these, and they have claimed that their system is in accordance with the rule of law so that they can be confident that those who they deport arent real Christians. Now, we have proven them wrong. Last Wednesday, a report called "Inquiry into the Asylum Processes of Religious Converts in Sweden" was released. It was commissioned by four of Swedens biggest evangelical denominations and authored by various scholars and lawyers. They looked at 619 Afghan citizens seeking asylum in Sweden who are baptized members in Swedish churches. The report showed that 68% of them had their asylum applications rejected, even though their pastors in almost all cases insisted that their faith is genuine. Furthermore, the report shows that some Migration Board offices reject asylum applications far more than others, and that lay judges in the migration courts make their decisions influenced by political ideology rather than by following law and evidence. For example, lay judges belonging to the far-right Sweden Democrats party vote for deportation in 93% of cases, while lay judges of the socialist Left Party do the same in only 15% of cases. Ulrik Josefsson, who has a PhD in theology and is one of the authors of the report, called it a "complete lottery." At the press conference in Stockholm where the report was released, he concluded that the decisions from the Migration Board are arbitrary and challenges legal security for converts. In a qualitative analysis of the material, the researchers found that the Swedish authorities are not in line with contemporary research of what defines and characterizes faith and conversion. Baptism, active church involvement and the trust of pastors and priests means basically nothing when the Migration Board tries to discern "genuine" Christian belief. This is contrary to what religious studies have found, and so Sweden is thoroughly unscientific in this regard. Most damaging, the authors of the report found that what did matter the most for the Swedish authorities is the ability to formulate and express ones faith and answer knowledge-based questions like those mentioned above. This means that what theyre measuring is not genuine Christian faith, but intellectual capacity. Converts who passionately love and try to follow Jesus still get deported if they cant express it in an sufficiently intellectual manner that the officials find pleasing. For that, Sweden sends them to their death. The report concludes: The Swedish Migration Board has a weak understanding of religion and conversion which lacks scientific grounding. The Swedish Migration Boards decisions show unreasonable differences between comparable entities, leading to arbitrary decisions. The Swedish Migration Boards praxis is not based on reliable methodology, leading to inconsistent motivations for decisions. The Swedish Migration Board does not comply sufficiently with international law and human rights conventions, leading to a lack of legal security. The report also demands that until these severe problems are adressed, all asylum processes involving converts should be paused, and those whose asylum application has been rejected needs to have a new trial. The Swedish government has previously recognized that the asylum process of converts needs to improve, but until now there havent been any evidence to suggest that it is a crisis. Now we know. Sweden deports genuine Christians to their death, and this needs to stop immediately. If the government fails to respond adequately, other countries and international organizations need to raise their voices and demand immediate change. A summary in English of the report can be downloaded here. Vancouver city council defunds rape crisis center for barring males who identify as female Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The Vancouver city council has voted to cut public funding from Canada's oldest rape crisis center because they refuse to allow trans-identified males into spaces specifically reserved for female victims. Vancouver Rape Relief, which was founded in 1973, was defunded because they were "supporting transphobia," according to city council member Christine Boyle, who in a March 13 tweet explained that she was voting to strip the organization of public funds because she could not support an organization that was not "inclusive" of transwomen and sex workers. Transgender advocates celebrated the vote as they have long considered the nonprofit group as a hub of bigotry toward persons who identify as transgender. The rape crisis center said in an statement online that they were the victims of discrimination masked as "inclusion" and said the city government was attempting to "coerce us to change our position" of barring males and only offering services to females, the National Post reported earlier this week. "Our services are available to all women who have experienced male violence. We provide assistance to women and girls in prostitution who have been assaulted by johns, pimps or men pressuring them into prostitution. We provide assistance to women who are currently being prostituted, women who are trying to escape prostitution, and women who have been trafficked into prostitution," VRR explained. "Being girls and women in this world often impacts both how we look and how we act in private and in public; what we are allowed to do, encouraged to do and rewarded for; and also what we are discouraged from doing, prohibited to do or punished for." The Christian Post reached out to VRR for comment on this article and was referred to their online statement. "In the last few days we have received many messages of solidarity and donations from around the world. We are encouraged and grateful for this tremendous support," the group said in part. VRR has long maintained that forcing females particularly those recovering from rape and other forms of male violence to share intimate spaces with males, even if they present as female, is disrespectful of the victims and often serves to re-traumatize them. The move to bar VRR from government resources was led in large part by Morgane Oger, a trans-identified male who has long accused this group of discrimination and bigotry. Oger is also the vice president of the British Columbia New Democratic Party. "Tax-funded @VanRapeRelief pushes prejudice in an indignant online rant about discrimination despite a one-year grace period to catch up to Canada's discrimination laws by @CityofVancouver," Oger said in a March 17 tweet in response to VRR's statement. The City of Vancouver funds represents only $33,972 of Vancouver Rape Reliefs over $1 million annual budget, the majority of which is provided by the Province of British Columbia, the National Post reported Monday. VRR said the city funds were used for educational outreach programs which were free and accessible and available to everyone, including those who identify as transgender. Rape Relief is strong enough and principled enough and has enough supporters in the community ... we will say no to that kind of money, VRR spokesperson Hilla Kerner told Star Vancouver in a March 14 phone interview before the city council vote took place. Meghan Murphy, the Vancouver-based founder and editor Feminist Current and longtime advocate for VRR's work, said the city government's action against them was "disgusting." "I will never understand the drive to lie about and smear those who support and fight for women," Murphy said, noting it was especially hard to see young women do so. "We live in such a sad, confused time." Canada's oldest rape crisis centre defunded for refusing to allow trans women The Vancouver city council has voted to cut public funding from Canada's oldest rape crisis centre because they refuse to allow trans-identified males into spaces specifically reserved for female victims. Vancouver Rape Relief, which was founded in 1973, was defunded because they were "supporting transphobia," according to city council member Christine Boyle, who in a March 13 tweet explained that she was voting to strip the organization of public funds because she could not support an organization that was not "inclusive" of transwomen and sex workers. Transgender advocates celebrated the vote as they have long considered the nonprofit group as a hub of bigotry toward persons who identify as transgender. The rape crisis centre said in an statement online that they were the victims of discrimination masked as "inclusion" and said the city government was attempting to "coerce us to change our position" of barring males and only offering services to females, the National Post reported earlier this week. "Our services are available to all women who have experienced male violence. We provide assistance to women and girls in prostitution who have been assaulted by johns, pimps or men pressuring them into prostitution. We provide assistance to women who are currently being prostituted, women who are trying to escape prostitution, and women who have been trafficked into prostitution," VRR explained. "Being girls and women in this world often impacts both how we look and how we act in private and in public; what we are allowed to do, encouraged to do and rewarded for; and also what we are discouraged from doing, prohibited to do or punished for." It continued: "In the last few days we have received many messages of solidarity and donations from around the world. We are encouraged and grateful for this tremendous support." VRR has long maintained that forcing females particularly those recovering from rape and other forms of male violence to share intimate spaces with males, even if they present as female, is disrespectful of the victims and often serves to re-traumatize them. The move to bar VRR from government resources was led in large part by Morgane Oger, a trans-identified male who has long accused this group of discrimination and bigotry. Oger is also the vice president of the British Columbia New Democratic Party. "Tax-funded @VanRapeRelief pushes prejudice in an indignant online rant about discrimination despite a one-year grace period to catch up to Canada's discrimination laws by @CityofVancouver," Oger said in a March 17 tweet in response to VRR's statement. The City of Vancouver funds represents only $33,972 of Vancouver Rape Relief's over $1 million annual budget, the majority of which is provided by the Province of British Columbia, the National Post reported Monday. VRR said the city funds were used for educational outreach programs which were "free and accessible and available to everyone," including those who identify as transgender. "Rape Relief is strong enough and principled enough and has enough supporters in the community ... we will say no to that kind of money," VRR spokesperson Hilla Kerner told Star Vancouver in a March 14 phone interview before the city council vote took place. Meghan Murphy, the Vancouver-based founder and editor Feminist Current and longtime advocate for VRR's work, said the city government's action against them was "disgusting." "I will never understand the drive to lie about and smear those who support and fight for women," Murphy said, noting it was especially hard to see young women do so. "We live in such a sad, confused time." Courtesy of The Christian Post US President Donald Trump said that the US and its partners in the international antiterrorist coalition had liberated all the territories of Syria and Iraq from the militants of the ISIS terrorist group (banned in Russia). In addition, the American leader said that the United States "will remain vigilant and will fight against the militants until they are finally defeated. Police to take 'no further action' against Caroline Farrow over 'misgendering' complaint No further action will be taken by police against Caroline Farrow, the Catholic journalist who faced being investigated after she was accused of "misgendering" the daughter of a trans rights activist. Mrs Farrow, a writer for the Catholic Herald and a mother-of-five, revealed earlier this week that she had been asked in for interview by Surrey Police following a complaint by Susie Green, who chairs trans support charity Mermaids and is the mother of Jackie Green, who was born male. Mrs Farrow, who does not believe people can change sex, allegedly used the wrong pronoun to describe Mrs Green's daughter in Twitter posts after the pair appeared together on Good Morning Britain to debate transgender issues. Mrs Green said Mrs Farrow's posts about her daughter were "distressing" and "spiteful" but she later withdrew her police complaint. "She constantly refers to my daughter as a boy but that's not... the key issues in here weren't those," she told the BBC's Victoria Derbyshire programme. "It was the really damaging things that she said about me and my actions that made me decide that this was an appropriate course of action." Mrs Farrow denied any wrongdoing. "I have done nothing wrong, nothing illegal and will happily do jail time for my right to say that people cannot change sex," she said. Surrey Police said they followed up the complaint because they had a "duty of care to fully investigate all allegations which are reported to us". It confirmed that it would be taking no further action as the complaint had now been withdrawn. "The original allegation has subsequently been withdrawn and no further action will be taken in relation to this matter," it said in a statement. When people think their acts of evil are somehow good As I record this commentary, the death toll in the horrific terrorist attack in New Zealand has risen to 50 souls. Though New Zealand is 7,500 miles away from where I live, this one hit close to home for me. I've visited New Zealand many times over the last twenty years, and I have developed marvelous friendships with many folks there, particularly on the North Island, but also in the city of Christchurch, where the massacre took place. That this murderer chose a beautiful and peaceful place like Christchurch, and that he chose to gun down people as they were particularly vulnerable during a time of worship, only adds to how sickening the whole event is. I do not have the stomach to read the killer's so-called manifesto, but I've read enough about it to know that for the New Zealand killer, what's wrong with the world is "the other." People not like him. People he saw as a threat to Western, or specifically "white," civilization. The so-called invaders, as he called them, were even, in his mind, threats to the environment, because they were overpopulating the world (even as white European birthrates decline). The Muslim worshippers became the targets of the killer's hatred of the "other." In his eyes, they were not individual, valuable human beings. They were a faceless group who represented foreign religion and lesser races. The elevation of himself and those "like him" as being somehow better, in tandem with the dehumanization of those not "like him" as the source of our world's problems, led him to think his act of evil was somehow good, and that any chaos he succeeded in creating was somehow necessary to "fix" the world. Like all worldviews, the killer addressed two fundamental questions: What's wrong with the world? And, how do we fix it? His bad ideas had many, many victims. Even so, in a sense, the killer's actions were the extreme but logical consequence of an ideological pariah infecting Western culture right now: what Andrew Walker of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission called on yesterday's BreakPoint Podcast "the decline of the concept of our shared humanity." Andrew reminded us that the human heart is bent towards "not seeing our neighbor as our fellow man and as a partaker of our fellow humanity. The heart apart from Christ is driven towards animus and resentment toward those who are not like us." He is exactly right. At the root of jihadism, and white supremacism, and most of the other odious "isms," is that same tendency to demonize another as the source of evil in the world. The obvious irony too few in the media are discussing is that in the name of defending Western civilization, this terrorist struck at a foundational premise of Western civilization: that all men are created equal and therefore possess the same human rights. Instead, to a much lesser and less-deadly degree, the tendency to demonize the "other" is reflected in the media's persistent description of the murderer as "right-wing." His denouncement of capitalism, admiration for Communist China and self-proclaimed "eco-fascism" (whatever that is) should be enough to prove otherwise. Labeling him as this or that only feeds a narrative that says, "Those people are what's wrong with the world." Of course, that is the standard way humans have operated throughout history since the fall. But, as voices as disparate as Friedrich Nietzsche and Chuck Colson have pointed out, Christianity, with its rock-solid foundational conviction that all human beings are made in the image of God, brought the idea of a shared humanity to Western civilization, and subsequently to much of the rest of the world. It took a long time for that idea of the image of God to take root and bear fruit in the world, and Christians have not always lived up to what it demands. Still, we should not be surprised that the more the Western world drifts away from, spurns and rejects the only solid foundational source for human value, the more we see the demonizing of "the other;" the more we will see our civic and political dialogue descend into the gutter; and the more we will see acts of extreme violence. Lord, have mercy upon us. Resources Podcast: The Equality Act and the Threat to Religious Freedom, with Andrew Walker, Andrew Walker | BreakPoint.org | March 18, 2019 Death toll rises to 50 in New Zealand mosque shootings, Nicole Chavez and Madeline Holcombe | CNN.com | March 17, 2019 Originally posted at Breakpoint. Energy and steel shipments were among those potentially delayed Friday when contaminated runoff at Intercontinental Terminals Co. closed a roughly seven-mile portion of the Houston Ship Channel near the Lynchburg Ferry. Roughly half of the Ship Channel was cut off from the Gulf of Mexico and Gulf Intracoastal Waterway due to the central location of the closure, and no detours around it. Companies in the affected area could include LyondellBasell Industries, Royal Dutch Shell, Enterprise Products Partners, Targa Resources, Valero Energy and others. The amount of traffic that goes up and down that channel is huge, said Jim Kruse, director of the Center for Ports and Waterways at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. Any time youre closing the channel down, youre having a major, major impact. Closures are not unknown to the Ship Channel, where fog often plagues ships and barges. But at least those scenarios have an estimated end date. The U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Services, which sent out the message to close the Houston Ship Channel at 12:36 p.m. Friday, did not know late Friday afternoon at what time the Ship Channel could reopen. With fog you can usually look at the weather and see how many more days youre going to have with it, said Capt. Bill Diehl, president of the Greater Houston Port Bureau trade organization. Predictability is what companies want, and thats what they dont have right now. The fire at Intercontinental Terminals filled the Houston skies with black smoke and flared up again on Friday afternoon. The economic impact it will have on the Ship Channel ultimately depends on how long the waterway remains closed. A half-day closure will back up traffic, but that could be relieved in 24 hours or so. A closure for several days could stall the movement of products between the ports various facilities, as well as crimp the regions import and export businesses. This logistics chain, which we call the port, is in pause until we figure out whats going to happen here, Diehl said. Royal Dutch Shell said it was trying to assess the situation, adding that its refining operations were normal at Shell Deer Park. Enterprise Products Partners likewise said its ship channel terminal is operational. LyondellBasell Industries said its Channelview and Bayport facilities remain operating. We are experiencing constrained barge and vessel logistics capabilities, the company said. We are currently evaluating the impact of this event on our production and logistics capabilities. Targa Resources and Valero Energy could not be reached for comment. Not affected by the Ship Channel shutdown are cruises departing from Galveston and container ships calling on Bayport or Barbours Cut Container Terminals. YouTube star Conan Gray hopped off the screen and into the House of Blues on Friday as part of his Sunset Tour. Texas has been home for most of Gray's life until his college career took him to California. There, his bedroom became the music studio where he worked on his debut EP "Sunset Season." A breach in a containment wall at Intercontinental Terminals Co. that allowed flame-retardant foam to leak from the charred Deer Park tank farm likely caused the site to re-ignite on Friday afternoon, company officials said at a news conference Saturday morning. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox The 10-foot breach allowed an unknown volume of foam and volatile compounds from the storage tanks to leak into a nearby ditch and then the Houston Ship Channel, ITC Incident Commander Brent Weber said. Footage from television helicopters shortly before the eruption showed gaps in the foam blanket covering the site, increasing the risk of ignition. DEER PARK DISASTER: Get your legal questions answered on Saturday about Deer Park plant fire The fire erupted at 3:45 p.m. at the site of three storage tanks that had already burned and a new location, the ditch into which fuels had leaked. Unlike a brief flare-up on Wednesday, which firefighters extinguished within minutes, Friday's blazes took an hour to put out. "Firefighters immediately begin spraying foam on both fires," spokeswoman Alice Richardson said. HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM INVESTIGATES: Deer Park company battling fire accused of intentionally polluting water during Harvey The fires forced crews back into a defensive position, scuttling plans Friday to continue siphoning fuel from the damaged 80,000-barrel tanks to secure containers, Weber said. The site is too unstable to determine the amount of product left in each tank, though he said they contain compounds including gasoline blends, xylene naptha and pyrolysis gasoline. Weber said crews on Saturday hope to continue cleaning up the tank farm and nearby waterways into which chemicals have leaked. "The focus of the unified command today, over the next 24 hours, is to transition back from reactive to proactive," he said. The incident commander said he could not rule out further flare ups, and said continuously maintaining the foam layer on the site is key to preventing more fires. Higher winds on Saturday and the potential for rain by Monday may make that objective more challenging, he said. The wall breach and chemical leak into Buffalo and Tucker bayous prompted the U.S. Coast Guard to close a portion of the Ship Channel. Coast Guard Captain Kevin Oditt said crews will continue to use booms and skimming devices to remove chemicals from the water. "At this time, I do not have an exact timetable for reopening the Ship Channel," he said. The company defended waiting 18 hours to brief the public on Friday's developments, which created an information vacuum Harris County officials struggled to fill as Deer Park residents clamored for updates. ITC cancelled a news conference planned for Friday afternoon. "I will tell you, as you saw that happening, we saw that happening," Richardson said. "So it's fast. It's moving quickly. We're trying our best." Richardson said ITC has yet to determine when the next news briefing will occur. Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia, who has been critical of ITC's response to the incident, closed several parks in the area until further notice as a precaution. They are: Bay Area Park in Houston Clear Lake Park in Seabrook Sylvan Beach in La Porte Juan Seguin in La Porte Rio Villa Nature Trail Meadow Brook River Terrace Moncrief Park 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. Youve had beer. Maybe even enjoyed it. But you havent indulged in beer until youve indulged in beer: a 98-degree bath filled with hops, yeast, herbs and, yes, beer. The beer soak, as it is called at Piva Beer Spa in Chicago, is a transcendental moment in a day of beer-fueled relaxation. It dazzles every sense: the warmth of the water, the wafting herbal-floral aroma, the cool 16 ounces of Pilsner Urquell sitting at your side, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the soak. Piva Beer Spa piva means beer in many Slavic languages offers an array of treatments, from facials to massage to a salt chamber meant to vitalize the respiratory system. But the highlight is undoubtedly the beer soak. It happens in one of eight larch-wood tubs in the basement of the spa that opened late last year in Noble Square. The soak is included in four different packages, available for singles and couples, ranging from $155 to $550. Father-and-son founders Edin and Dino Sarancic launched Piva Beer Spa based simply on what they perceived as a hole in the market for a concept not uncommon in Europe. A handful of American spas claim to do beer treatments, usually invoking beer as an ingredient in a scrub or a facial. Piva is one of the few to go all in, just as youd find in, say, Prague. Beer purportedly lends hydration and acts as an antioxidant for skin and hair. But mostly, its a novel getaway in the middle of Chicago. If you go Piva Beer Spa: 1052 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773-570-9280. Packages, available for singles and couples, range from $155 to $550. Salt room ($35 for 45 minutes or available cheaper as part of multisession packages) and massage (ranging between $45 and $120, depending on length) are available a la carte. See More Collapse I booked a platinum package at Piva Beer Spa one chilly Monday afternoon. It was supposed to last three hours and 15 minutes but stretched closer to four hours (at no extra charge). Dino Sarancic, burly and with a shaved head, greeted me from behind the counter as sounds of plucked acoustic guitar filled the spa. Its not a large space, but enough has been squeezed in for a getaway: a gleaming new steam room, a handsome sauna, a couple of rooms for massage, four soaking rooms (two tubs in each) and small changing rooms. Sarancic pointed to a sliding wood door. Behind it, he said, I would begin my day in the halotherapy room. He slid the door open to reveal a long narrow room, all white but tinged violet from lights in the ceiling. A handful of reclining chairs were lined up on top of a couple of inches of salt spread across the floor. A machine on the wall pumped light, salty mist into the air. After a quick change from street clothes into Pivas spa gear a blue cotton waffle robe and plastic shower shoes it was off to that salt chamber for 45 minutes. My busy 21st-century brain defaulted to the obvious question: Should I bring my phone? What will I do for 45 minutes if not checking Twitter?! I resisted the impulse. (Sarancic said many people dont resist, and he doesnt judge. Its whatever you want to do, he said.) The salt room was warm and comforting and only modestly salty. As I reclined in the violet haze, I could feel a light saltiness on my lips. The most memorable sensation was squishing my feet in the salt spilled across the floor like sand but cleaner and finer. I closed my eyes and nearly dozed off amid the gentle hum of the salt machine. I didnt miss my phone for a moment. Next was the steam room for 15 minutes. Then the sauna for another 15. Then the highlight: the beer soak. Piva Beer Spa doesnt say exactly how much beer is mixed into the tub a six-pack? 12-pack? A case? but Sarancic pegs it as about 15 to 20 percent of the warm mixture. So, no, its not a pure beer bath. Its a fine balance between having the hydrating and antioxidant component but not enough to make people feel sticky and nasty when they leave here, Sarancic said. The beer? That he will reveal. Although father and son investigated partnering with a brewery from Chicagos booming craft-beer industry, they wound up aiming to replicate the Czech experience by employing that countrys most famous export: Pilsner Urquell. The spa technician led me to the lower level, where the CTAs Blue Line rumbled by every 10 or so minutes on the other side of the wall a reminder that the city continued to stir. The soaking tub waited on the other side of the wood door, filled with gray-green water where hops floated on the surface. Beside the tub was a plate of nibbles: apple slices, two kinds of cheese (asiago and brie), dark rye bread and green olives. It was a delightful surprise, but the most delightful surprise of all was that glass of Pilsner Urquell, in a wood mug imported from Europe. I slid in and deeply inhaled the herbal-floral mix. Then sipped the beer and nibbled the cheese. And repeat. The 45 minutes ended far too soon. Next it was back upstairs for the relaxation room and application of a beer mask. The bed, oddly enough, was a wooden slat covered in hay similar to what youd find in Eastern Europe, Dino Sarancic said. It was blissfully comfortable rustic yet cozy. The spa technician covered my eyes and began dabbing a paste on my face made in the Czech Republic that, sure enough, features beer in the mix. Finally came the full-body massage. It was Edin Sarancic who had the idea to create a beer spa in Chicago after experiencing one in Prague. Father and son spent three years creating it, during which it seemed all the more appropriate as Chicago grew into one of the nations brewing capitals. That was kind of a plus and a validation for us, Dino Sarancic said. After nearly four hours at Piva Beer Spa, I had no idea how much of a difference the beer made in the experience: the soak, the mask, the 16 ounces. But I left with unmistakable satisfaction warm, loose and a touch woozy and quite pleased to be at that warm intersection of deep-muscle relaxation and beer. More than a dozen individuals and an alleged human smuggling guide were recently apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol agents near Laredo. The incident occurred on Thursday when agents assigned to the Laredo Sector Marine unit and Laredo South Station observed individuals along the Rio Grande attempting to enter the United States illegally. When President Donald Trump signed a large package of tax cuts into law in 2017, the IRS moved to make sure the savings showed up quickly in paychecks. Doing so probably lifted consumer spending last year, but it may have hurt Republicans politically, new polling suggests. Administration officials, it appears, underestimated Americans love of tax refunds. Nearly 4 in 5 people say they would rather overpay their federal income taxes and get a refund every spring effectively making an interest-free loan to the government than to underpay and owe money come tax season, according to a poll for The New York Times by online research firm SurveyMonkey. That preference appears to be influencing how Americans view Trumps signature cuts: Among people who have already filed their tax returns, those who said they received a bigger refund this year are far more likely than others to approve of the law. But many people are reporting that their tax refunds are smaller this tax season, or that they owe money. In addition to being more likely than other Americans to say they oppose the law, those people feel worse about the economy overall. They are also significantly more likely to disapprove of Trumps performance in office. The findings suggest that the administrations decisions on withholding may have hurt the law politically. I was hopeful that the rhetoric for once was going to match expectations and it did not, said Tony Mendes, 61, a federal employee in Denver. I got back less than I would have anticipated. Bigger paychecks for most, smaller refunds for some Independent analyses consistently show that the 2017 law gave most Americans a tax cut, and few families will end up paying more than under the previous rules. Federal officials faced a choice about how to pass those savings on to taxpayers. One option would have been to make most people wait until they filed tax returns this spring, delivering a tax-season windfall but essentially delaying the cut by a year. Instead, the IRS chose to begin withholding less from workers paychecks early last year. That put more money in workers pockets right away, but made the effects of the tax cut harder to see, since the savings amounted to just a few dollars per pay period for many people. Administration officials said this week that they stood by their decisions on how to update withholding tables. They said their goal was to make the tables as accurate as possible, and to encourage taxpayers to use a calculator on the IRS website to estimate their liability or refund at the end of the year and decide whether to change how much was being withheld. But for some people, the IRS decision has resulted in a nasty shock come tax season. The new law made numerous changes to the tax code eliminating and capping some deductions and credits while increasing others and the revised withholding rules did not account for every situation. As a result, government auditors warned last year that the withholding changes would reduce refunds for several million Americans. It is not yet clear how many Americans will end up paying more. As of last week, IRS statistics showed that the average refund had not changed for those who had filed. But total filings were down, and the share of returns producing a refund had declined by 0.5 percentage points, or about 300,000 filers. (Experts caution against reading too much into tax statistics before the April filing deadline.) You can see people potentially being frustrated if the tax season isnt playing out the way they expected, said Michelle Meyer, chief U.S. economist for Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Other people might be quite pleased. It is quite split how people are being impacted by the tax cut. Democrats have accused the Trump administration of political gamesmanship. The Treasury Department under-withheld taxes from millions of families paychecks to make the benefits of the tax law appear greater before the 2018 election, and the bill is now coming due, Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, the top Democrat on the Finance Committee, said in an emailed statement. Families who depend on annual tax refunds to pay down debt, cover medical expenses and afford car repairs are discovering their refunds are smaller or they owe money. Smaller refunds could be hurting support Among people who have already filed tax returns, 32 percent said their refunds had shrunk from a year ago, compared with 22 percent who said their refunds had grown, according to the Times survey. Another 11 percent said they owed money this year. Tax refunds reflect the difference between what taxpayers had withheld during the year and what they actually owed. They reveal next to nothing about whether a given household got a tax cut under the 2017 law. Still, it is not always easy for taxpayers to figure out how they are affected by policy changes, and many people may draw conclusions based on the size of their refunds. Among survey respondents who said their refunds were smaller or that they owed money, just 35 percent believed they had gotten a tax cut as a result of the law. Among those whose refunds grew or stayed the same, on the other hand, 49 percent said they had gotten a tax cut. Cause and effect is not always straightforward in public opinion surveys. It is possible that people who already approved of Trump and his policies are more likely to believe their refunds had grown, or are at least more likely to report that to pollsters. Surveys in recent years have revealed growing partisan splits on views of the economy and other issues. Laura Wronski, a researcher for SurveyMonkey, noted that Republicans were more likely to say their refunds had gotten bigger. Its just unlikely that it aligns that perfectly along partisan lines, she said. Its more likely that people are going to stick to the side theyre on. Still, partisanship is not the whole story. Even among Republicans, those who said their refunds had shrunk were significantly less likely to believe they had received a tax cut. Will this years spending be affected? By adjusting workers paychecks right away, the IRS may have helped pump up economic growth last year. People are more likely to spend small, incremental increases to their paychecks, economists said, whereas they often try to save larger lump sums. Consumer spending surged in the middle of last year, helping the economy to one of its best years of the past decade. The uncertainty over tax refunds could now be dragging spending down. Low-income consumers, in particular, often rely on tax refunds to finance major purchases. Data from Bank of America showed a dip in spending among low-income households in February, which could reflect a delay in tax refunds. If youre used to getting a nice refund and then you discover you owe, thats a big shock, Meyer said. Low earners are not the only ones affected. Alan Abraham, who works in medical research in Pittsburgh, said he used his tax refund every year to buy season tickets to the Penguins. This year his refund was much smaller, and he has not decided whether to renew. Abraham said he paid more under the new tax law because of its cap on the deduction for state and local taxes, which hit him particularly hard because he owns two homes. A political independent who supports a flat tax, Abraham said he mistrusted politicians of both parties and did not vote in 2016. But he said the tax law had made him less likely to support Trump, whom he did not vote for in 2016, next year. At the beginning I was, like, Well, lets see how he does, Abraham said. Based on the fact that my tax bill has gone up, I actually wouldnt vote for him. The tax law has gotten more popular Despite the skepticism of people like Abraham, the tax law has gained support in recent months. Half of the surveys respondents said they approved of the law, up from 45 percent in September and the highest share since February 2018. (The Times has not asked about the tax law every month.) There are signs that as more people file returns, they are discovering that they benefited from the law. Among those who had filed before completing the survey, 43 percent said they definitely or probably received a tax cut, compared with 35 percent of those who had not yet filed. It seems like people are realizing as theyre going through the process of doing their taxes that, Oh, things did improve for me, and I wasnt expecting that, Wronski, the SurveyMonkey researcher, said. A vote by the Houston-Galveston Area Council on Friday morning in Houston is the culmination of more than three years of work to help fund the relocation of the United Pacific railroad tracks at Highway 90. Following 70-plus minutes of presentation and comments, a vote was taken that could change the trajectory of the city of Dayton and Liberty County, area officials said. The approved project would move the railroad tracks on US 90 further south closer to the eventual site of the Grand Parkway with four grade separations two eastbound and two westbound. The project is not completely funded but should get an initial grant of $45,016,157 in federal funding after receiving the H-GACs blessing. This is just the first of many more progressive steps, but its a big one. And were moving in the right direction, said a beaming Liberty County Judge Jay Knight, who was on hand for the vote. Knight estimated that with the first $45 million-plus that comes from the federal funds, they would still need about another $150 million to get it done. This is one of the biggest things to happen to Liberty County in more than a decade, said State Rep. Ernest Bailes who was ecstatic with the news. Its the result of a lot of hard work from a whole lot of people who made this happen, he said. Bailes was among the group that organized in November of 2015 to try to make something happen for the Dayton train. U.S. Congressman Brian Babin is in the district this weekend and was excited about the news. I applaud the efforts of local, county, and state leaders for working with the railroad companies and all stakeholders in this project. It has been a group effort, Babin said This is a big step in a complex process, but I believe we are on the right track. In November of 2015, Bailes, State Sen. Robert Nichols, representatives from Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway, Gulf Inland, Knight and Commissioner Leon Wilson met first to figure out how to get talks started again. Nichols suggested county officials take the lead since he viewed the issue more as an economic one for the entire county and he thought it would help expedite the work. We took his recommendation and worked on putting the meetings together, Knight said. In 2016, not only did BNSF attend the meeting, but so did Union Pacific (UP), representatives of the Liberty County Rural Rail District, Commissioner Greg Arthur, Congressman Dr. Brian Babin and several TxDOT officials. We all agreed we could get something done, and we did, the judge said. Each of the officials went to work in their own realm of responsibility to make sure the project got underway. Union Pacific will continue working with H-GAC, Liberty County, the Texas Department of Transportation, industry and other transportation partners on this project, said Kristen South, spokesperson for Union Pacific. We are pleased to hear this project was selected, which will assist with removing a conflict between railroad operations and the traveling public, she said. TxDOT officials, who submitted the proposal to H-GAC, also responded to the news. The proposed Dayton Railroad Overpass Project has been approved for partial funding by the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC). The project will require further funding, coordination with Union Pacific Railroad, and environmental clearance before it will be ready for design and construction, but this is a great first step in the process, said Sarah Dupre, spokesperson for the Beaumont District of TxDOT. Bailes, who was working cattle on Friday, said It took getting the right people to the table and once we got those there and they understood what our needs were and that there was no viable Plan B, we were able to get it all together. The growth that we have coming is going to amplify without this fix, he said. Knight said no matching funds were required for this particular grant. I think this can be done with the federal, state funding, and the Rural Rail District who could offer bonds to pay for some of the work as well, he said. The district was formed in 2008 under former County Judge Phil Fitzgerald to deal with procuring funding for rail projects such as this. Its not a taxing entity and they collect no tax but having them allows them to sell bonds for infrastructure. Those can be offered in the private sector, Knight said and should attract a lot of interest. This will be the first and likely the largest bond the district will ever incur. Alan Clark, director of transportation planning for H-GAC, said it would not only cure the bottleneck of traffic, but provide the impetus for economic growth for Dayton and the county. US 90 has been recognized as a critical route. When theres an issue on Interstate 10, US 90 is the only east/west corridor, he said. Clark said he hoped the grade separations project would come online at the same time frame as the Grand Parkway neared completion. We fully expect your area to see tremendous growth and development with the Grand Parkway, he said. Clark also pointed out the growth coming out of Humble into Huffman and down FM 1960. You dont have to go far until you run into Houston traffic coming out of there, he said. Clark called the project a game changer not just for Dayton and Liberty, but for the entire county. Were really excited to see this move forward. I think our friends (TxDOT) in the Beaumont District are really motivated with this project, Clark said. Clark arrived in Houston in 1981 and said it was a problem then. The rail crossing also has its own Facebook account under Dayton Train. While it became an aggravating impasse at times for commuters trying to get to work, it was also an economic engine for the city providing a substantial amount of tax base. The project will be beneficial to the railroad as well as the oil and gas economic boom across the Gulf Coast continues to drive revenues. This will be one of those projects that well look back on and say, Look what has happened since that was fixed and the Grand Parkway opened, Clark said. Clark, the director of transportation planning or H-GAC, pointed out that trains arent going slow at that intersection because they want to, but because of the geometry of the curve that requires them to go slow as they cross the highway. There was little debate on the need for the grade separations amongst the H-GAC. I think everyone who has ever been around here for any length of time is aware of the situation, Clark said. The city of Dayton has not returned phone calls before this story was posted. dtaylor@hcnonline.com The United Nations has not changed its position on the status of the Golan Heights, UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told a briefing yesterday, TASS reported. US President Donald Trump earlier wrote on his official Twitter account that "after 52 years, it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and regional stability." "We don't have any comment on the tweet that we saw yesterday," Haq said. "If you're asking what the UN policy on the Golan Heights is, then it's very clear it's the policy reflected in resolutions of the Security Council and relevant resolutions of the General Assembly," he added. "The status of the Golan Heights has not changed," he noted. "It is up the members of the Security Council themselves to determine whether their resolutions have been breached or not. So we'll leave that matter in their hands," he said. On what was the first day of spring, former Navy man Darren Clark recited a pledge to an American flag in a setting he called home only seven months ago: the Montgomery County Jail. There is no way Ill go back to that life. Ive got a good job, Clark said in an interview. Clarks quiet voice stretched across the room Wednesday as he spoke to about 20 incarcerated military veterans about how he transitioned from repeat offender and inmate to independence as a well-paid metal tradesman. The 48-year-old who was previously convicted of multiple nonviolent offenses, mostly for drug possession, found the way forward through three resources available to the jailed military vets. Dressed in their pressed fatigue green-colored jail uniforms, the inmates in attendance are part of the Veterans Embracing Tools for Success (VETS) military vet assistance program started in May 2017 by Sgt. Kimberly Anderson and Lt. Felicia Webb of the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office. These men and women served their country, Anderson said. They came back, they ran into some issues and its our duty to assist them in these issues and get them back on the right track. THE WOODLANDS: Hundreds gather at mosque for unity, remembrance event The veterans pod currently consists of 20 inmates 18 men and two women visiting under close observation of detention officers. To keep the counseling effective, the pod does not exceed 30 inmates, Anderson said. Acceptance into the program is on a case-by-case basis taking into account the current charges the veteran is facing and prior convictions. Clad in a red T-shirt and blue jeans, Clark praised Restore Texas Ministries, where he was placed after release through another Huntsville-based nonprofit, the Armatus Reintegration Program. It is run by 58-year-old Rick Pritchard, a former Marine sniper from Iowa who after ministering to Texas prisoners said he realized there was nothing catering to the needs of incarcerated veterans. VETS mandatory counseling takes place three days a week. A Veteran Affairs representative visits weekly to discuss assistance and benefits the inmates may be eligible to receive. Every new military vet is assigned a fellow incarcerated veteran as a mentor. Lt. Webb said between five to 10 inmates have been released, learned a trade, found a home and have returned to act in a mentorship role, just as Clark was doing. These guys who have gotten out, this program is very important to them, Lt. Webb said. They mentor to these other guys, telling them that You can do it reinforcing it for them. FINANCIAL HELP: United Way of Montgomery County unveils THRIVE Center Anderson explained since jail is a secure, controlled environment, and because many do not have proper housing, family and friends to help them, outside resources like Armatus Reintegration are crucial. Some dont get it right the first time, and thats OK. The goal is to get them on a secure exit plan so that they get comfortable in their environment to be able to move forward, Anderson said. Thats why having all these community organizations is so imperative because they help them navigate after the fact, as well. Armatus plays a big role in that. Armatus Reintegration volunteers currently serve 400 military vet inmates weekly in 11 penitentiaries, including the William P. Hobby Unit, a womans facility. Montgomery County is the only jail the program currently serves. Armatus Reintegration meetings are held Wednesdays there. Each holding unit is assigned two volunteer military vets. We serve the forgotten veteran and the forgotten veteran is the incarcerated veteran, Pritchard said. Everyone forgets about the people behind the wire. The program uses what Pritchard described as evidence-based curriculum addressing post-traumatic stress disorder, parenting, domestic violence, anger management and job training. In the next 30 to 45 days, Pritchard plans to introduce resources on cognitive behavior to what is featured at the Montgomery County Jails VETS program. Pritchard said many military veterans convicted of criminal offenses are missing the structure the armed forces offered them. WATERWAY ARTS DISTRICT: Woodlands officials still ironing out details of banners They lose that camaraderie, that purpose they get themselves in trouble, Pritchard said. Our job is to help them get back into that positive thinking. After Clark was stationed on an aircraft carrier during the 1990 Gulf War, he started dabbling in drugs to manage the post-traumatic stress disorder he said he suffered. It was a coping mechanism at the time, Clark said about his drug use. I had self-medicated like a prescription. Born in Ohio and raised in Nebraska, Clark first found himself in Montgomery County in 1994. Echoing Pritchards point, he said he longed for the camaraderie that was fundamental to his time in the military. This consisted of depending on the guy next to you, knowing that hell be there for you and youll be there for him, Clark said. Trying to compensate, he joined a ragtag group of people whose routine was getting up in the morning, getting high and heading to work. In his third stay at Montgomery County Jail, Clark struggled to find employment. Then he said Restore Texas offered him an opportunity to avoid further incarceration. Everything pointed to that. There was no way that I could go other than that way, Clark said. It was spooky, how clear it was. RESIDENTS SPEAK OUT: Tax abatement for planned Woodlands office building on hold At Restore Texas, Clark joined about 11 other veterans recently released from incarceration. If you wanna quit, then you need to get with other people who want to quit. Then you get that, some loyalty and devotion, if you will. Clark said. There are currently two veterans recently released out of Montgomery County Jail who are enrolled through Restore Texas just as Clark had been. Though it is faith-based, we dont force that on you, executive director Kevin Webb said, but we hope it rubs off on you. While there, Clark learned his current trade and obeyed the three Ds rule: no drinking, no drugs and no drama. Restore Texas has a heart for you guys, Pritchard told the group gathered at the veterans pod. As he spoke to the inmates, Clark advised them to avoid old acquaintances to not fall into the same life choices that led them to jail. As such, he left Montgomery County and now lives in a neighboring county. Among those intently listening to Clark, was Army vet Shane Parnell. The 40-year-old who is being held for a DWI offense, has, like Clark, embraced the structure offered through VETS. SPRING CREEK: Toth adds funding request for reservoir to proposed state budget Parnell singled out the standard operating procedure followed in the veterans pod, modeled by the militarys own, which include how beds are made and an expectation of overall cleanliness. Similarly, inmates are on a merit system where three demerits lead to a discharge from the pod. Just as with Clark, the camaraderie ties it all together for Parnell. Were all a brotherhood and a sisterhood and we all gave a blank check to give our lives for our country, Parnell said. Toward the close of his speech, Clark recalled a scene he recently observed between two young brothers at play. The younger of the two was struggling with a glow stick not lighting up. The old brother had a solution that resonated with Clarks journey. He told his brother, You have to break it in order for it to work, Clark said, concluding, Im glowing now. You had to break me first. jose.gonzalez@chron.com twitter.com/jrgzztx Courtesy of Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Montgomery County Sheriffs Office deputies are looking for a couple they say in early March stole close to $18,000 from a Conroe pool business. Jordan Laffitte, 25, and Tori Brady, 22, are wanted on felony theft charges after detectives say on March 4 the two stole $17,838 from Parrot Head Pool Services on Fussel Road. Laffitte was an employee of Parrot Head and Brady is reportedly his girlfriend, according to a Sheriffs Office press release. The Houston narcotics officer at the center of an internal police investigation as well as an FBI civil rights probe into a botched January raid that left two people dead has retired, his lawyer confirmed Friday. Officer Gerald Goines retired Friday afternoon while under investigation following the Jan. 28 shooting deaths of two residents during a no-knock raid of a Pecan Park residence in south Houston. The Harris County District Attorneys Office is reviewing more than 1,400 criminal cases that Goines worked on over the course of his 34-year career. Goines was relieved of duty as questions mounted about his actions leading up to the drug raid, in which a team of undercover narcotics officers burst into a residence at 7815 Harding St. after obtaining a no-knock search warrant. A gun battle ensued that left homeowners Dennis Tuttle and Rhogena Nicholas dead. Goines was shot, as were three other officers, one of whom remains hospitalized. 'CLEAR HER NAME: Mother of woman killed in botched Pecan Park drug raid speaks out Nicole DeBorde, the attorney representing Goines, confirmed her clients retirement. He has quite an extensive recovery to deal with, she said. So instead of fighting with that and all the administrative issues, he decided it was time. Goines retirement came a day after Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo confirmed that he expected more than one officer to be criminally charged for their actions in the ill-fated raid. After court documents related to the investigation were made public in February, Acevedo said he expected the case agent would likely face criminal charges for allegedly lying about using a confidential informant to conduct an undercover buy at the Harding Street residence. The Pecan Park bust and the officers actions have drawn scrutiny because police did not find any heroin, only a small quantity of cocaine and marijuana. Investigators later were unable to find the confidential informant whom police said they relied upon to obtain a search warrant. Officer Steven Bryant, who participated in the raid and was also relieved of duty as questions mounted, retired earlier this month. In a search warrant for Bryants phone data, an investigator with HPDs Special Investigations Unit wrote that Bryant told investigators that he had retrieved two bags of heroin from the center console of Goines police car at the instruction of another officer. That, however, was not consistent with the affidavit used to obtain the warrant for the Jan. 28 raid, in which Goines wrote that Bryant identified heroin brought out of the house. Though he took the two bags of drugs for testing to determine that they contained heroin, Bryant eventually told investigators that he had never seen the narcotics in question before retrieving them from the car. Goiness retirement is the latest fallout from the deadly raid, and comes as Acevedo has launched a wide-ranging probe into the narcotics division and its operations following the raid. The FBI has launched a civil rights investigation into the operation and the DAs office has announced that it is reviewing 2,200 of the past criminal cases handled by Goines and Bryant. FALLOUT: Acevedo reveals new no-knock raid policy Acevedo has dramatically curtailed no-knock raids and said that he will equip raid teams with body cameras to record the operations. None of the narcotics officers who conducted the raid was wearing a body camera. Two other narcotics officers, including Goines longtime former partner, have also quietly retired from the department in recent weeks, one under investigation for an unrelated matter, according to police documents and sources. Each officer had more than 20 years experience with the department. Michael Doyle, the attorney representing the family of Nicholas, who died in the raid, offered a succinct comment on the news. That doesnt really answer any questions or change anything, he said. Acevedo was not immediately available for comment Friday evening, and officials with the Houston Police Officers Union declined to comment. James Pinkerton contributed to this report. st.john.smith@chron.com What is the minimum salary you need to buy a home in Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin? One company sought to find the answer. On Mar. 19, smartasset.com released a report that calculated the figures for those five locations, as well as the other top 10 largest cities in the United States. You can examine the organization's methodology more deeply here. The company describes itself as "a financial technology company aiming to provide the best personal finance advice on the web." You can click through the slideshow above to see the minimum salary you need to afford home payments in the 15 largest U.S. cities in 2019, according to smartasset.com. All of the pictures above are homes in those cities. RELATED: Several Houston area universities among top nursing schools in Texas Peter Dawson is a digital reporter in Houston. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com. | Peter.Dawson@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. Emergency apparatuses, equipment and uniformed first responders from local safety-related entities will be stationed throughout Old Town Spring on Saturday, March 30, for the inaugural Spring into Safety Day. Families are invited to peruse and learn about the variety of departments keeping north Harris County safe and the tools they use to do so. Its kind of like going to the zoo, I guess, said Spring Fire Chief Scott Seifert. We can bring people into Old Town Spring to see whats out there in the public safety realm not just fire departments, but EMS departments, some of the county departments like the Fire Marshals office, and law enforcement agencies. The public will have an opportunity to engage all those organizations in one place. The Spring Fire Department spearheaded the event and enlisted the help of Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Jack Cagles office to round up community partners, which include Harris County Pct. 4 Constable Mark Hermans office, Harris County Fire Marshal Office, Cypress Creek EMS, Emergency Chaplain Group, as well as the event host, Old Town Spring. Public interaction with first responders tends to be limited to negative circumstances, explained Seifert, so an event like Spring into Safety brings the community together with their first responders in a festive, educational setting. The community deals with these organizations usually when something bad happens and this gives them the opportunity to see whats behind the curtain some of the things they dont see every day, Seifert said. Landon Reed, assistant director of community outreach at the Harris County Pct. 4 Commissioners Office, said the event will feature a passport challenge for children, similar to Pct. 4s Civic Adventure Day. We have a passport that the kids can get and if they go to each one of the apparatuses and get stamped, then they get a bag of goodies at the end from all the entities that are in the event, Reed said. The idea for Spring into Safety sprung from a similar event held annually on the west side of Houston. Harris County ESD 48 theyve been doing their safety fest for several years and its continued to grow and grow and grow, Seifert said. We dont have anything like that on the north side of Harris County, so the idea sparked from their event. We anticipate a good turnout for our inaugural event and we expect it to grow over the next few years. Spring into Safety Day will take place in Old Town Spring on Saturday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.springfd.org or the Spring Fire Department Facebook page. mfeuk@hcnonline.com In the wake of terrorist attacks at two New Zealand mosques that killed 50 people earlier this month, a Muslim leader in The Woodlands called for unity and an end to attacks on Islam. What we need to do now is start to work on our responsibility as leaders, as peace makers, as wise and passionate human beings, Imam Mohammed Rihabi told more than 300 people during an interdenominational service at The Woodlands Masjid Al-Ansaar mosque on Friday night. It is time to stand now against Islamaphobia. There is no more time to wait. It is time to fix this issue. Rihabi joined by other faith leaders from Christian churches, a local Jewish synagogue, a nearby Mormon temple and The Hindu Temple of The Woodlands who offered their own blessings and prayers for the victims. All of the speakers called for more tolerance in the world for religious differences. Fridays vigil came a week after two mosques were attacked in Christchurch, New Zealand. Fifty people were killed in the attacks and scores more were injured. A 28-year-old Australian man was arrested and charged with murder. What happened has shaken the whole world. Fifty worshippers were killed. Forty-four were wounded. All people came to worship God.Allah, Rihabi said. Where did he learn hate? How did he adopt hate as a language? He committed these crimes because he did not learn the language of love because he had learned the language of Islamaphobia. Rihabis comments were met with applause and nods of agreement. In addition to comments from Rihabi, community leaders from both government and local religious institutions shared their thoughts. Among the speakers were Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Wayne Mack; Craig Sorenson, president of The Woodlands Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; Don McDonald, executive pastor at Woodsedge Church; Rabbi Jan Brahms of Congregation Beth Shalom of The Woodlands; a chaplain from CHI St. Lukes Hospital of The Woodlands; Deborah Leiber, from the Sisterhood of Salam Shalom; Rashmi Gupta of The Hindu Temple of The Woodlands; several representatives from the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office and various county constables; and speakers from local chapters of both Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action. Religious freedom teaches one to love and respect your neighbor, Sorenson said in an emotional speech. We join with all of you in prayer and will continue to build bridges that help humanity. Mack, who has been active in trying to create unity throughout Montgomery County, said the tragedy of any loss of life is a sad for all humanity. As humans, we must respect the sanctity of life. In respecting the sanctity of life, whether it is Christchurch, or Pittsburgh, or Charlotte or Syria or any of the places across Africa where people are being killed because of their religious beliefs is a shame for humanity. We must all pray, Mack said. I love your message of coming together and building bridges. There is one God, and we must show his love, we must show his mercy and always, always, always give honor to the sanctity of life. No matter the color of their skin. There is one race, the human race, your faith all of our faiths teach us to respect life. Evil comes because there is a lack of faith. Rabbi Jan Brahms said despite societys various religious customs, people share a common source which gives us our ideals and value systems in life. We are all from the same source, we all have hopes and dreams, Brahms said. We should focus not on what divides us, but what unites us. We must all speak when evil occurs. Evil is evil. We must stand together in unity because love will triumph over evil. Deborah Leiber, who is a leader of the local chapter in The Woodlands of Sisterhood of Salam Shalom, said when she woke up the morning after the New Zealand terror attack on the two mosques, her first thought was deep concern for all her Muslim sisters and friends. Her group composed of Jewish and Muslim teenagers and women. The haters represent a threat to us all and we must not let them win, Leiber said. This is the time to come together. In addition to the adult speakers, numerous teens and high shool students spoke, including Ziad Samir Aziz, a student at College Park High School; Hana Thai, a student at Tomball High School; and Annika Gallaway, a student at The Woodlands High School who has led various protests and events via her advocacy in Students Demand Actions local chapter. Aziz told the crowd in an emphatic speech that his learnings from the Prophet Mohammed were those of peace and tolerance, and he added that places of worship such as mosques are intended to be safe havens, not places where innocent people are slaughtered. He also quoted renowned civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., reciting a short passage from the 1960s leader saying darkness cannot drive out darkness. I am an American and a Muslim. The sanctity of that safe haven (the mosques in New Zealand) was destroyed, Aziz said. We have so much more in common (than we realize). We all despise evil, but we must do our part to unite. We must unite. Thai, who is a sophomore at Tomball High School, said several of her non-Muslim friends had reached out to her in the aftermath of the New Zealand shootings, offering sympathy and support and letting her know they were allies in unity. Waking up to headlines like these is a reality check. What more do Muslims have to do (to be welcomed), I truly dont know, Thai said. I am begging Muslims and non-Muslims we should not merely coexist, we should thrive. jeff.forward@chron.com Tough Elementary students receive award from Toshiba International On Thursday morning, March 21, at Coulson Tough Elementary, a team of four sixth graders were honored with an award from Toshiba International and the National Science Teachers Association for being regional winners in the ExploraVision competition, one of the worlds largest K-12 STEM competitions. Science teacher Dawn Caldwell explained that the competition challenges students to envision futuristic technology to solve real-world problems. Toshiba representative Tony Proval, the companys senior logistics manager, presented the schools Team Algatiles made up of Owen Plourde, Calvin Nyeholt, Aarush Shenoy and Aditya Thakarwith an award for their project. Their project analyzed how rising levels of anthropogenic carbon dioxide are driving global temperature increase and created a concept for roof tiles to absorb carbon dioxide. Although the team has already won a Toshiba laptop, the group is to go on to compete against the other regional winners for the competitions national award. Cox Intermediate student selected as one of two top youth volunteers One sixth-grader, who is dedicated to helping feed hungry kids and adults, received a Prudential Spirit of Community award making him one of the states top two youth volunteers this year. Matthew Reel, who attends Cox Intermediate School, has been giving out food packets and packing food into backpacks for kids who might need it on the weekends for more than three years. Thats why he was chosen by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals to receive an engraved silver medallion signifying this award. Two state honorees were selected from each state. Reel received $1,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C. in May because of this recognition of his personal initiative and growth, effort and impact. Texas Autism Academy receives donation from Hodges Collision Centers Hodges Collision Centers, an independent body shop in the Houston area, surprised the Texas Autism Academy with a $10,000 donation at The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event. The centers president and CEO, Steve Guinn, said hes excited to see the academys growth and impact they have on students. The cause is close to Guinn because he has a grandson with autism, and the academy is focused on providing a dedicated and specialized education plan for students with autism. John Cooper students qualify for state level of National History Day contest After two teams of ninth-grade students competed at the regional level of the National History Day contest Feb. 23 at Lone Star College-Montgomery, they successfully qualified to advance to the state level of competition in Austin on April 27. One team made an exhibit about the election of Hugo Chavez, while one team made a website about the Bangladesh Liberation War for the overall competition theme of Triumph and Tragedy in History. jane.stueckemann@chron.com A proposed property tax abatement for a planned four-story office being sought by officials from human-resources company Alight was put on hold Thursday night after an insufficient number of township directors were available to vote on the item. Consideration of the possible tax abatement for the proposed new four-story, 180,000 square foot office building along with a multi-story parking garage along New Trails Drive in The Woodlands will apparently be placed on the agenda of a township board meeting in April, although those agendas are not typically released until several days before a meeting. On Thursday, the scheduled vote on the abatement never happened after township staff attorney Robin Cross gave a detailed explanation of why directors could take no action they did not have a quorum. Depending on who does not participate, we may not have a quorum, for voting, Cross said. After the explanation from Cross, board Chairman Gordy Bunch and directors John Anthony Brown and Bruce Rieser all recused themselves from the abatement discussion and possible vote citing various conflicts of interest. Because board Member Brian Boniface was once again not present at a meeting, that left only three members, which was not enough to proceed with any actions. Bunch and Rieser explained to attendees that they could not vote on the project due to conflict of interest of both of them owning stock in a company called Blackstone LP, which is the parent company of Alight. Browns recusal stemmed from his wifes employment at Alight. After Brown, Bunch and Rieser recused themselves, the remaining three board members John McMullan, Ann Snyder and Carol Stromatt indicated that the board would revisit the abatement request at a future meeting. The possibility of the new building being constructed has caused concern from some local residents who say the new building will impact their lives and quality of life. Dozens of residents of the neighborhood, Founders Reserve, showed up at Thursdays meeting in an effort to get assistance from township board members in minimizing the impact of the project. One resident of the community, Tiffany Dunne-Oldfield, said she has been unofficially appointed as a spokesperson for a group of dozens of concerned residents who live in Founders Reserve, which is the neighborhood immediately east of the proposed building. Dunne-Oldfield told the directors that she, as well as dozens of other residents of the enclave that is technically not inside the boundaries of The Woodlands Township, that they hope to preserve the forest buffer that is currently in existence, want assurances that no water runoff would impact their properties and also that a plan for light pollution be developed to minimize the shining into their homes. We are strongly opposed to any project that hurts The Woodlands reputation as an eco-friendly, family-friendly, master-planned community. We are also opposed to any project that imposes undue hardships on local homeowners. As currently outlined, this project would do just that, Dunne-Oldfield said during public comment. As background, many Founders Reserve homeowners paid a premium for their home as the area now in question was marketed as a protected reserve. And while we are not here to argue the validity of what we were told, we believe it is important that you understand this background. The concrete parking lot currently planned for this project would begin just 30 feet from the backdoors of our homes and the beautiful tree canopy and natural reserve that borders our community would be completely destroyed. Project background The new building would be constructed by The Woodlands Development Co./Howard Hughes Corp. and owned by the firm and merely rented out to Alight, according both documents detailing the project and Lorrie Parise, a spokesperson for The Woodlands Development Co./Howard Hughes Corp. It is a build to suit opportunity which we would lease, Parise said of the plans. In this case, it is one tenant. According to documents filed with the township, Alight officials reported that they need to vacate their current office which is located on Technology Forest Boulevard by March 2020, hence the need for new offices. The company, one letter states, wants to remain in The Woodlands and to, Continue its employment of a very significant number of local residents and its support of the local businesses and philanthropic needs of this community. The documents detail the proposed building as costing more than $34 million and if successful, will lead to the retention of at least 950 jobs with a salary base of $47 million in annual payroll for the next 10 years. Company officials are requesting a 100 percent tax abatement from year one through year seven, and then 80 percent abatement in year eight, 60 percent abatement in year nine and 40 percent tax abatement in year 10. In a letter to developers and township officials, residents asked for several concessions and discussion about the projects impact before it is approved. The letter was signed by 53 different residents of the neighborhood. Parise said officials with The Woodlands Development Co. are already in discussions with affected residents and are planning to wholeheartedly work with them through the process. There is a meeting with homeowners set for Monday, March 25, but no time or location for the get-together was announced on Thursday. We have been speaking to (a) homeowners group there, Parise said in an interview on Tuesday. We do plan to follow all of the (development) standards of The Woodlands. We are going to meet with residents on (March 25) when we are going to share plans for the project. We want to assure them we will follow the rules. Attemps to contact administrative officials with Alights corporate headquarters in Illinois were unsuccessful. Courier of Montgomery County Managing Editor Catherine Dominguez contributed to this story. jeff.forward@chron.com WASHINGTON - Attorney General William Barr plans to spend the weekend reviewing special counsel Robert Mueller's report on his investigation into possible obstruction of justice by President Donald Trump and Russia's interference in the 2016 election, a senior Justice Department official said Saturday, indicating it would be at least another day until the probe's findings would be shared with Congress. While the White House, Congress and the country awaited word of the findings, Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein huddled at the Justice Department, reading and assessing Mueller's work alongside key advisers. "They're working basically hand in hand," said the official, who like others spoke on the condition of anonymity to share general insights about the attorney general's process. The official said that very few people know the report's contents. Mueller did not participate in the review Saturday, the official said. The attorney general announced Friday that Mueller's work had come to an end, and Barr spent that afternoon and early evening in his fifth-floor office reading the special counsel's final report - which one Justice Department official described as a "comprehensive" document. Barr told lawmakers in a letter that he "may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions" as early as this weekend. A Justice Department spokeswoman said those conclusions would be made public but declined to otherwise describe what was in the report. The submission of Mueller's report ended his high-pressure investigation, a probe that has engulfed the Trump administration since its inception and led to criminal charges against 34 people, including six former Trump associates and advisers. On Saturday, officials said that one of those cases - that of Trump's former deputy campaign chairman Rick Gates - will be transferred from the special counsel's office to federal prosecutors in Washington. Gates pleaded guilty last year to conspiracy and lying to the FBI, and he continues to cooperate with prosecutors while awaiting sentencing. A senior Justice Department official said the special counsel has not recommended any further indictments - a revelation that buoyed Trump's supporters, even as additional Trump-related investigations continue in other parts of the Justice Department, in Congress and in New York. David Laufman, a former Justice Department official involved in the early stages of the Russia probe, said it was important that the lack of further charges "not be seen as a failure or an invalidation of his investigation." "What matters is that prosecutors and agents faithfully carried out their jobs to uncover the relevant facts and applied law and policy to those facts," he said. "Of particular importance now is the comprehensiveness of the special counsel's evidentiary narrative in the report and how he explains his reasons for declining additional charges." An advocacy group, EPIC, has filed a lawsuit seeking to make the Mueller report public. On Saturday, House Democrats held what was billed as an "emergency conference call" to talk about the report. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., told the roughly 120 lawmakers on the call that "right now, we are in the mode [of] wanting to know the truth, wanting the facts," according to a partial transcript of her remarks. Pelosi said on the call that she would oppose any effort by the Justice Department to restrict the flow of information to a small, classified briefing - arguing that it was important that any briefing on Mueller's investigation be unclassified so that lawmakers can talk about it publicly. The Democratic chairmen of six House committees also spoke on the 35-minute phone call, pledging to seek the full report's public release, and insisting that the underlying investigative material Mueller's team gathered be shared with Congress. Democrats believe that Mueller's work will bolster their efforts to further probe the Trump administration, his presidential campaign, his finances and his business operations. People who took part in Saturday's call said a key message from Democratic leaders was that the end of the Mueller investigation does not end the multiple congressional inquiries into the Trump administration. Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said in an interview that House Democrats' "number one objective" is to ensure that Barr releases "the entire Mueller report and all of the underlying evidence that it is built on." "Obviously the congressional scope of inquiry is far broader than that of a special counsel," he said. "We've got a broader interest than just nailing particular individuals for crimes committed." For lawmakers seeking evidence of corruption or any effort to obstruct justice, the Mueller report is a starting point, Raskin said. "We will be in a position as soon as we get the report and underlying evidence to make the judgment about where we need to go in terms of a number of different live investigations," he said. Trump's supporters, meanwhile, took news of the report's filing as an optimistic indication that he was on the cusp of being vindicated after nearly two years under Mueller's microscope. The president spent Saturday at his Florida resort, accompanied by White House lawyers and senior aides. Rudy Giuliani, one of the president's lawyers, said he has been counseling patience while everyone waits to learn what Mueller found. "My message is: We've all waited this long, let's just await the reading of what's disclosed and then we can have proper final reactions. There's too much assuming going on, on the other side, and we shouldn't fall into that trap," Giuliani said. "The best news is that the release means the case is over. But you can't say more, or know more, until you read it. I'm confident, as I've been from the start, that the president did nothing wrong and that will sustain him. For everything he's done, there's a clear explanation he can make to the public." A person involved in discussions among Trump's legal team, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said they have prepared a "counter-report" - a series of documents addressing various topics that emerged during the course of Mueller's investigation. Some of the memos deal with what one Trump ally called the "innuendo of obstruction," which they see as an area where Mueller could make unfavorable judgments about the president's conduct. This includes Trump's interactions with James Comey, whom the president fired as FBI director in May 2017, setting off alarms in the Justice Department and in Congress, where lawmakers feared Trump was determined to end the Russia probe before it was completed. Trump's team is ready to challenge Comey's credibility and counter any such conclusions with timelines, said the ally, who also spoke on the condition of anonymity. Trump's lawyers are also looking beyond Mueller, the person said, and preparing to use some of the same arguments and documents to counter any attacks by House Democrats. The conclusions that Barr is expected to release could be brief and high-level - which surely would leave lawmakers and others unsatisfied. Earlier this month, the House voted nearly unanimously to urge the Justice Department to release Mueller's report in its entirety. Barr and Rosenstein have noted publicly that Justice Department policies generally discourage prosecutors from making public any unflattering information about those they decide not to charge, or information that is classified or gathered by a grand jury. In his letter to lawmakers Friday, Barr said he would consult with Rosenstein and Mueller, who remains special counsel even though his investigation is complete, "to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law, including the Special Counsel regulations, and the Department's long-standing practices and policies." Those discussions are likely to last significantly beyond the weekend. And no matter what Barr decides, lawmakers might upend his plans by subpoenaing documents and summoning witnesses to testify about the now-concluded probe. Jimmy Carter - the 39th president of the United States - has recently celebrated multiple record-breaking milestones: The 40th anniversary of his inauguration was in 2017, and in October, he joined George H.W. Bush as the only other president to reach 94. On Friday, at the age of 94 years and 172 days, Carter reached a new milestone, becoming the longest-living president in U.S. history. He did so despite thinking he was on the verge of death just a few years earlier, after doctors discovered that cancer had spread to his brain. True to form for the low-key former chief executive, however, "there are no special celebrations planned," his spokeswoman said. Born on Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, the typically cheery and humble former Navy lieutenant has had a life of service. Before taking office as president, he served as a state senator in Georgia and as governor. His presidency - remembered for the Camp David accords, the Iran hostage crisis and creation of the Departments of Energy and Education - flamed out during the election of 1980, when Ronald Reagan defeated him. After leaving the White House in 1981, Carter, then 56, and his wife, Rosalynn, returned to their hometown in southern Georgia. Yet another distinction: Carter has been an ex-president longer than anybody in American history. He remains engaged in the causes and activities that matter most, according to the Carter Center's director of communications, Deanna Congileo: He participates in Carter Center programs in global peace and health and annual Habitat for Humanity builds, and he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, for work during and after his time in office. Carter also continues to teach Sunday school lessons and courses at Emory University. "Both President and Mrs. Carter are determined to use their influence for as long as they can to make the world a better place. Their tireless resolve and heart have helped to improve life for millions of the world's poorest people," Congileo wrote in an email to The Post. In 2015, Carter announced doctors had discovered a form of melanoma that spread to his brain. "I just thought I had a few weeks left, but I was surprisingly at ease," Carter said at a news conference that August. "I've had an exciting and adventurous and gratifying existence." He received his first radiation treatment at 90 years old. Four months later, he was - remarkably - cancer free. Bush, the 41st president, died on Nov. 30. Carter attended the funeral service in Washington, along with President Trump and former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton and, of course, Bush's son, George W. Carter says he takes pride in having "always told the truth." He also says he is proud that former secretary of state Hillary Clinton and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., "comported themselves with dignity, talked about issues that matter and presented a vision for our nation," during the 2016 presidential election. Still, thinking back on more than 40 years, Carter told The Post in August that he "regrets not doing more to unify the Democratic Party." His 2016 message to the younger generation of voters was: "Stay engaged. Stay involved. And be sure to vote." A family is mourning the loss of their beloved dog who gave his life to protect them when a man opened fire at their house. The Martinez family was hosting a birthday party when a man arrived with a gun and shots were fired. "This is not something we would ever think was going to happen," Martinez said. Texas police said the person believed to be responsible, Javian Castaneda, isnt a stranger to the family. In fact, Castaneda is friends with their children. After a recent burglary, Laura Martinez said they suspected one of their childrens friends was involved. Martinez told authorities they went to discuss the situation with Castanedas parents. When they arrived, the parents were gone. Laura Martinez said she left a note asking them to call her. Police said Castaneda then showed up at the Martinezs house with a gun and started an argument that led to gunfire. Laura Martinez and her two children were left injured including the familys dog, Zero, who reportedly jumped on the suspect repeatedly as he fired the weapon. "I went to go turn to run and I just feel instant pressure in my lower back. Put my hand back there and I realize there was blood all over my hands," Martinezs daughter, Valori Pace said. According to the family, Zero first bit the suspect after he fired shots. The suspect then shot the dog who fell back for a moment before jumping on the suspect again, who fired three shots at the dog leaving him fatally injured. The family has a memorial where they can visit Zero, Click2Houston reported. "I honestly believe if Zero had not kept jumping on him, he wouldve been able to get shots higher than our legs," Martinez said. Authorities are still searching for Castaneda for questioning. During the 2018 Texas Senate race, Austin resident Michele Schwartz canvassed for Beto ORourke and opened a pop-up office for his campaign at her home. A religious follower of Pod Save America a favorite podcast among liberals the race between ORourke and Republican Sen. Ted Cruz presented her with an obvious choice. On Saturday, though, Schwartz turned out for a rally at Texas Southern University to hear U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris, D-California, stump to a Houston audience for the first time in her presidential campaign. Already, Schwartz, 50, has soured a bit on ORourke, turning instead to her preferred candidate: Harris. I'm even less excited about him since his announcement rollout, she said, donning a black Kamala hat. I just didn't think it was very professionally done, and I think at this stage of our country, we need a candidate who can have the right people behind him and supporting him, or her because they're going to throw everything they can at this candidate. Hardly a week into his campaign, ORourkes prospects in the nascent 2020 Democratic presidential primary may depend on the loyalty of his Texas base at the polls next March, 16 months after his narrow loss to Cruz. Now with a menu of alternatives, including Democrats who are not white men and those who have embraced the partys progressive policy planks with greater enthusiasm than ORourke, voters are considering candidates such as Harris, who sees an opening in the countrys third most delegate-rich state. At Harris rally, some of the same Democrats who embraced ORourke for his slapdash campaign style and freewheeling rhetoric indicated they may be looking for something else in a presidential candidate. I would rather have seen Beto run for Senate against (Republican Sen. John) Cornyn, said Houston resident Robert Tomlinson, 77. He would have had a better chance. That doesn't mean that he's not going to possibly win the race, the nomination for the presidency. But it's a lot different when you're running against the most hated senator in the nation, and then you've got to run against a lot of people who have a lot of similar ideas." Tomlinson could do without ORourkes propensity for dropping f-bombs during stump speeches, he added, because presidential candidates should be held to a higher standard. Harris, speaking at TSUs recreational center Saturday afternoon in front of signs proclaiming This is Harris County, reprised her campaign theme of speaking truth, using the phrase to tee up a stump speech that touched on climate change, gun control and the economic struggles of the middle class. Her early policy platform includes a proposal that would provide tax credits to poor and middle-income families. One of the most important ingredients in trust is truth, Harris told the crowd of about 2,400, according to her campaigns estimate. So lets speak some truth, Harris County. Though Harris did not touch on the news Friday that special counsel Robert Mueller had finished his Trump-Russia investigation, she did briefly unveil a plan to ramp up federal investment in teacher pay, pledging to close the pay gap between public teachers and similar professionals with college degrees by the end of her first term. The vast majority of us have so much more to come, Harris said. Notably, she took the stage to a rousing introduction from Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, who endorsed Harris on the spot while defending her prosecutorial record. Though some progressives have critiqued Harris for being overly tough on crime as the San Francisco district attorney and California attorney general, Ellis said, I know she's gonna fight for criminal justice reform. Others in attendance included U.S. Reps. Sylvia Garcia and Sheila Jackson Lee, both Democrats of Houston. Harris also met Saturday with a group of female African-American judges elected to Harris County benches in the November midterms. It was Ellis introduction, though, that drew attention due to his record of staunch criminal justice advocacy. "She was a career prosecutor, but she was a thoughtful prosecutor, Ellis said of Harris. Some attendees were undeterred by reports of Harris less-than-progressive prosecutorial record, including Kelly Broussard, a Harris County attorney who named criminal justice reform as a top issue and said Harris is learning as shes on the campaign trail about what voters want. I know she has received a lot of flack, a lot of backlash about that, said Broussard, 43. But as a prosecutor, I think people don't understand that her position is not that of judge and jury. She's there to prosecute serious crimes. Meanwhile, the prevalence of ORourke voters here who are now contemplating a Harris presidency underscored the challenge for both candidates. In some ways, they are courting a similar base of voters, said Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston. Both have more conservative-moderate records and are moving in a more progressive direction, Rottinghaus said. That, in a nutshell, is where Texas is. It has a long history of having conservative Democrats, who now find themselves in the same party as some very progressive Democrats. Where Harris may have the edge over ORourke, Rottinghaus said, is in her ability to draw Latino voters a group among which ORourke notably underperformed in the 2018 Democratic primary. For that demographic, Harris also will find herself competing in Texas with presidential candidate Julian Castro, the former San Antonio mayor and Housing and Urban Development secretary. Castros self-acknowledged underdog campaign relies heavily on winning Texas, Rottinghaus said, and his path to victory becomes heavily clouded if non-Texas candidates continue to aggressively pursue delegates here. I think he had hoped to have Texas to himself. That would have been a delegate goldmine, Rottinghaus said. He really needed Texas. Before Houston, Harris stopped Friday evening in Grapevine, where she fielded questions from Tarrant County Democratic Party Chair Deborah Peoples. At both Texas stops, Harris did not appear to mention ORourke or address the question of how aggressively she plans to pursue delegates here. The more the merrier, Harris said on MSNBC when asked earlier this month about ORourkes candidacy. Pressed to weigh in on the candidate, she told the moderator, I probably have not studied him as much as you have. Selene Saavedra had been a flight attendant at Mesa Airlines for just a month when the company scheduled her on a flight to Mexico. The 28-year-old from Bryan had put the country on her no fly list, worried that her temporary permit for young immigrants who came here illegally as children would keep her from being allowed back into the United States. Her supervisors incorrectly told her that status, known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, would protect her. I was afraid of being fired, she told her husband, a U.S. citizen. Im a brand-new employee on probation. Saavedra told her supervisors at the regional airline that she was concerned. She followed up with a phone call on the day of her flight to make sure they were certain she could go. She already had an immigrant visa to become a legal permanent resident approved through her marriage, and didn't want to risk her status. She still lacked several challenging steps, including obtaining a provisional waiver for her unlawful presence prior to holding her DACA permit. She also needed to undergo a consular interview in Peru in a process to obtain her green card that could stretch two years to complete. COURT MOVE: With inaction, Supreme Court gives longer life to DACA Immediately upon her return from Monterrey to Houstons George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Customs and Border Protection agents detained her, saying she did not have a valid visa. Federal agents imprisoned Saavedra in an immigrant detention center in Conroe and asked the government to revoke her DACA permit. She faced deportation to Peru, a country she hasnt seen since she was 3. It is the latest example of both the uncertainty faced by more than 700,000 so-called Dreamers across the country and of the unfettered authority CBP officers have to deny anyones entrance into the U.S. This shows how broken our immigration system is, said Stephen Yale-Loehr, an immigration law professor at Cornell University. Immigration law is very complicated and CBP has incredible power at the border, and this administration is exercising it to detain more people, rather than extending their discretion favorably. President Donald Trump rescinded DACA in 2017 and, though courts so far have allowed current recipients to renew their permits, they cant leave the country as they could before when they could apply for a status known as advance parole. Jin K. Park, the first-ever DACA recipient to win Oxford Universitys prestigious Rhodes Scholarship, may not be able to attend as a result. The Trump administration has requested the Supreme Court terminate DACA, though justices have not yet taken up the case. For the past 18 months, Dreamers have teetered between hope and despair as two government shutdowns teased a resolution to their fate, but came and went without one. TRUMP TWEETS: Lawmaker sniping derails DACA negotiations Arriving in Houston on Feb. 12, CBP officers processed Saavedra as a refused crew member, because she didnt have valid entry documentation. After 24 hours in their custody she was transferred to the federal detention center, said Tim Oberle, a spokesman for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in an email. Saavedras immigration attorney, Belinda Arroyo, requested the agency grant her parole, which would allow Saavedra to remain here while she fights her immigration case in court. Instead, she said the agency told her they had asked the government to revoke Saavedras DACA permit, which would mean she could immediately be deported. Arwen FitzGerald, a spokeswoman for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency in charge of DACA permits, said she could not comment on specific cases and cited its January 2018 memo stating that the agency would not accept or approve advance parole requests from DACA recipients allowing them to travel. Saavedras situation was dire, so her husband took to the Internet. It was a quagmire and it was definitely a pointless battle, said David Watkins, 33. Until I got social media involved. He emailed The Points Guy, a U.S. website focused on travel and aviation with a popular online following. Thursday, the site published a story on Saavedras plight and within hours her case had gone viral with the hashtag #FreeSelene and #Bringherhome. United We Dream, the countrys largest organization for Dreamers, organized a press call. The Association of Flight Attendants -CWA launched a petition with MoveOn.org to request Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen release Saavedra and drop her charges. By Friday, it had more than 20,800 signatures and Hillary Clinton had shared it on Twitter. The unions president, Sara Nelson, in a statement jointly issued with Mesa Airlines, urged the government to release Saavedra. She has followed the rules, paid taxes, and is currently in process to citizenship, Nelson said. The United States is her country and we need to bring her home. Jonathan Ornstein, the chief executive officer of Mesa Air Group Inc., said in a statement that the government should free her and drop her immigration charges. It is patently unfair for someone to be detained for six weeks over something that is nothing more than an administrative error and a misunderstanding, Ornstein said. Late Friday, Saavedra called her husband, whom she met years ago at Texas A&M University, where they both studied. She called me crying and said, Come get me, Watkins said. The power of social media. Oberle, the ICE spokesman, confirmed that Saavedra was released from ICE custody at 6:15 p.m., Friday pending adjudication of her immigration proceedings. Watkins said the ordeal wasnt over and that Saavedra would still have to plead her case in immigration court, where she faces deportation for leaving the country against the terms of her DACA permit. Arroyo, Saavedra's attorney, said the government granted her the status known as parole late Friday, so she could be eligible to more easily adjust her status. Its been a month and a half of purely bad news, so this is the first bit of good news, Saavedra's husband said. In a statement, Saavedra said that being freed is "an indescribable feeling." "I am thankful and grateful for the amazing people that came to fight for me, and it fills my heart," she said. lomi.kriel@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. A Houston police sergeant was charged with murder Saturday after his wife was found shot to death in their Pearland home, according to enforcement officials. Pearland police were called at noon Saturday to a house in the 1900 block of Canyon Creek Court, after a family member trying to get in contact with the victim found her dead inside the kitchen. Hilario R. Hernandez, 56, was taken into custody hours later in Kingsville, southwest of Corpus Christi. Jodi Silva, a Houston Police Department spokeswoman, confirmed that Hernandez works for HPD. Pearland ISD confirmed that Belinda Hernandez, the librarian at Shadycrest Elementary, died Saturday. The district will have extra counselors on campus Monday to help children cope. "Please keep our Shadycrest family and the Hernandez family in your prayers," the statement said. The couple had been married more than three decades and had two grown children. "I was very happily married; I loved my children," Belinda Hernandez told the Chronicle in 2014, when she was featured in a story for fulfilling her dream of becoming a teacher. "But I always had my one regret. I wished I had gone to college and become a teacher." She returned to college in 2011 to make that dream a reality. Investigators are now looking for surveillance video that could provide additional details, Pearland police spokesman Jason Wells said. "We are going to conduct business as usual," Wells said. "The law is held accountable for everybody, actually more so for (officers)." Police had not yet found anyone who heard gunshots. More than a dozen neighbors stood outside watching police investigate, with almost the entire dead-end block taped off by Pearland police. They were shocked, describing the area as a quiet suburban neighborhood with no history of violence. "They seemed like just everyday, normal people," said Lucretia Jeansonne, 64, who lives down the street. She would wave at Hernandez when he drove by. 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. Wealth has a strong bearing on how safe your community is, according to a recent study. The new numbers from SafeWise, a research company specializing in home security and safety products, use federal crime data to calculate a safety ranking of the most populous cities and suburbs in Texas. The ranking also includes median income levels, and there appears to be a strong link between wealth and safety rating. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox The safest Texas communities ranking is dominated by wealthy affluent suburbs, mostly near Houston and the Dallas-Fort Worth areas, with small populations. SafeWise used data from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation's Unified Crime Reporting Program from 2017, the most recent available, to formulate their rankings. SafeWise reports that the population threshold for the study was based on the state's median city population. For Texas, cities with populations above 5,000 were considered for the study, according to SafeWise. The company then calculated how many instances of reported violent crimes (aggravated assault, murder, rape, and robbery) there were per one thousand residents. They also used property crime reports to determine the final rankings. Click through the gallery to see the 20 most dangerous cities in Texas. Godofredo A. Vasquez, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer AUSTIN Attorney General Ken Paxton, on behalf of the states top regulatory agency, filed suit Friday against the company responsible for the Deer Park fire, alleging it released pollution in violation of the Texas Clean Air Act. In the 18-page suit filed in a Travis County district court, Paxton seeks a citation and civil penalties against Intercontinental Terminals Company, the liquid storage terminal company whose facility caused a series of fires this week, for violations of Texas Commission on Environmental Quality rules. The violations include unauthorized air pollution, outdoor burning and visible emissions. A Texan aspirant to the Democratic nomination for president likes the issue; it gets attention, doesnt it? Memo to the Republican National Committee: Send Julian Castro of San Antonio, perpetual rising star in Texas Democratic politics, a fruit basket. A big one. You see, while many believe slavery reparations to African-Americans is too much of a hot potato, Castro keeps calling attention to the issue. And while Castro surely is for other meaningful changes and has other ideas a nationwide pre-kindergarten program a la San Antonio? A high-speed train from New York to Texas? I cant name one, nor has any other issue received such traction via Castro. In a heartstrings-pulling quote, Castro said: If under the Constitution we compensate people because we take their property, why wouldnt you compensate people who actually were property? Well put, Mr. Castro. African-Americans who endured slavery certainly deserve compensation and sympathy. Yet Castro, who recently announced hes seeking the Democratic nomination for president in 2020, would be hard put to find a living ex-slave. And lets count Sens. Kamala Harris, Elizabeth Warren and Corey Booker as also believing reparations are a logical and correct thing to do. The rest of the field of Democratic nomination aspirants seems to be cool (so far) to the idea. But as Castros quote made my eyes misty, the mind wanders to the implementation of reparations. One would think that reparations to African-Americans, perhaps in the form of a direct monetary payment to individuals, is fraught with problems, political and societal. And to Castros credit, he didnt say he knew all the answers and wasnt presenting a neat little reparations package with all the ts crossed and the is dotted. He said recently that hed prefer a top-level commission to look into the issue of reparations. So, lets take a look at the benefits of reparations: It is something that, after almost 160 years when slavery ended, is owed. Its a great rallying point for a Democratic nominee or a seeker of the 2020 nomination. Look at a state such as Alabama or New York or California, with many African-American voters (no, blacks are not monolithic, but lets just take a guess as their preference for reparations) with electoral riches in the primaries. Now, Mr. Castro, lets look at the questions associated with reparations. Would these payments be to all people in the United States of African descent? If my nephew, for instance, is 50 percent African-American, would he be eligible? And how much? Would that handsome lad get a one-time payment of $1,000, or $100,000, or $500,000? Or would payments be paid monthly for his lifetime? And, if so, would these payments continue, in perpetuity, to his descendants? Would a woman of 90 percent African-American descent get more money than, say, my nephew? What about a threshold for being black and deserving reparations? If I send my money and DNA to ancestry.com, and I discover my Iberian background is 15 percent African, would I be in line for reparations? What about my friend Louis, who is fair-skinned and black? If he turns out to be 40 percent African-American, how does he stand relative to a payout? Another friend goes to a hairstylist who is from Jamaica. Where does she stand? Will blackness count? Those African-Americans who happen to be fair-skinned with European features, would they be bypassed? What about a lineup before a reparations commission to weed out the wannabes from those with enough African genes to be truly considered African-America? If an African grew up in, say, Massachusetts in the 1700s and was never a slave, would his or her descendants get a payout? What mechanism would decide reparations? Would the Department of Health and Human Services be the go-to agency for this? Who would be on such a commission or panel? A recent Somali refugee, a recent immigrant from Jamaica, Nigeria or Guyana? Where would they stand as far as reparations? How big would such an agency have to be or grow to cover what is said to be 13 percent of the population? To be sure, reparations pose lots of headaches for politicians, sociologists and genetic experts. But mainly for politicians. It could be that Castro is ahead of his time, but reparations as a plank in the Democratic Party platform could be a problem. One PBS website shows 55 percent of Americans opposing reparations, 40 percent supporting them and 5 percent undecided. An Associated Press poll in 2016 reported 68 percent of Americans opposed. A recent Rasmussen poll showed 70 percent of Americans opposed to slavery reparations. But, of course, these are only numbers from a small sample of Americans. And, Mr. Castro, why would you put slavery reparations ahead of reparations for Hispanics who lost roughly one-third of the present-day land mass to the United States? Hispanics who lived in what is now the United States and were brutalized, swindled and robbed of so much land? What about women, who toiled at no pay, then half pay, for much of U.S. history? American Indians where do they stand? Having lost 100 percent of what is now the U.S. land mass, I would assume they are wondering about Castros largesse for African-Americans but not for Native Americans, who endured genocide and banishment from their lands. A friend reminds me that there is precedent. Japanese-American internees were paid for their horrific treatment and detainment during World War II. But the difference is that the Japanese-Americans were the actual victims of our wartime insanity, a time when we feared a Japanese military invasion on the West Coast. If there is a single African-American today who withstood the horrors of slavery, Id like to meet that person and offer a personal apology. I dont think there are any. Today, when talk about writing trillion-dollar checks for a green nation, student debt forgiveness, farm subsidy payments to prevent farmers from overplanting (love that socialism, farmers?) and making college education free, my heart tells me that reparations to African-Americans (and others) should go to the front of the class. Yet my mind tells me it would be folly to conceive of such a divisive and selective program when no former slaves are alive today. And if in a fit of conscience purging and doing what we believe is right in paying reparations to African-Americans, then the Democrats would be the party with enough imagination, decency and conscience to do it. Yet in a Trumpian era, it is difficult for a Democrat to want to say yes to reparations and the electorate to say yes to Trump in 2020. Memo to the RNC: Aside from the fruit basket, send Julian Castro a bouquet of roses, no thorns. Because with reparations as his rallying cry, the Democrats surely will have enough of a thorny issue as they slog toward 2020. Guillermo Torres is a 44-year veteran of editing and writing for American newspapers. Hes worked at the Los Angeles Times, Dallas Morning News, the Santa Fe New Mexican and the Express-News, among other newspapers. He was one of the authors of A Legacy Greater Than Words (UT Press). Hes also a fellow of the Freedom Forum and the Institute for Journalism Educations Minority Editing Program. englishforyou68@yahoo.com AKRON, Ohio With prom season around the corner, scores of teen girls and their entourages of friends and family packed into an Akron church on Saturday to choose their perfect gown for free. Local members of Altrusa International, a volunteer service organization, held their 19th annual Princess Night Project at Family of Faith United Methodist Church to provide Northeast Ohio girls with new or gently-used prom dresses and accessories at no cost. More than 1,000 dresses hung on racks, along with dress shoes, purses, wraps and jewelry. Girls could also receive complimentary makeup and fragrance samples. Its like going to a beautiful boutique, said organizer Linda Rittenour, who has been in Altrusa International for eight years. Volunteers acted as personal shoppers to help girls select their dresses and seamstresses were available to make minor alterations. Over the 19 years, Akrons Princess Night Project has provided nearly 2,000 free dresses, Rittenour said. The project began when one of Altrusa Internationals Akron members went to the dry-cleaner and asked why there was a rack of prom dresses. The dry-cleaner said girls brought them in after prom and never picked them up, Rittenour said. The local group decided to ask for dress donations and give them away for free. We just feel that prom is a milestone in anyones life and we dont want any girl to be deprived of that, Rittenour told cleveland.com previously. Girls attending the event did not need to provide their name or personal information. Volunteers only asked about how she heard of the event and where she goes to school, so the organization can gauge which areas they are affecting, Rittenour said. Its truly a blessing to have this program, a mother said on cleveland.coms Facebook Live. They dont have to miss out on prom. Every girl should go to her prom. Another mother was particularly grateful because shes on double duty. Ive got twins graduating this year so its going to be really hard for me to be able to finance all the stuff that comes with graduating, so for this, Im really thankful, she said. Anyone interested in donating a gently-used dresses, shoes or accessories should hold onto them until January, when Altrusa International members in Northeast Ohio start collecting for their 20th annual Princess Night Project. Want more Akron news? Sign up for cleveland.coms Rubber City Daily, an email newsletter delivered at 5:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, Ohio -- With more than 50 years of experience between them, Santo Incorvaia and Myra Staresina Severyn recently were sworn in as legal counsel for Middleburg Heights. Incorvaia became the city's new law director, and Severyn will serve as assistant law director and prosecutor. They took their oaths of office at City Council's March 12 meeting. "I am very excited to be able to make these two appointments," said Mayor Matt Castelli. "They are extremely important positions to our community. I don't think we could have found better candidates for these opportunities." Middleburgs two most recent law directors were discharged only months apart and under unusual circumstances. Longtime law director Peter Hull was terminated suddenly by former mayor Gary Starr without explanation in January 2018. Starr then appointed Gary Ebert, whose relationship with City Council collapsed after he refused to share un-redacted city documents involving Starr -- Ebert cited attorney-client privilege -- which council members argued they were entitled to see. City Council subsequently fired Ebert last November. Incorvaia became an attorney in 1988. Throughout his career, he has served as Maple Heights mayor and in several communities as mayor's court magistrate. "He has the highest level of professional excellence and the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards," Castelli said. Severyn, an attorney since 1987, has served as Macedonia city prosecutor since 1996 and is an experienced civil litigator. "Myra implemented a community mediation program in Macedonia and has since served as a mediator in other municipalities, primarily in neighborhood dispute matters," Castelli told council. "She brings the values and approach that I think is right for our community going forward." Incorvaia said he is looking forward to what we can accomplish in the Law Department. Everybody here is top-notch, and Im very excited to join the team, added Severyn. MEDINA, Ohio -- The Medina County Retired Teachers Association will conduct its quarterly luncheon meeting at noon on Tuesday, April 9, at Williams on the Lake, 787 Lafayette Road, Medina. All retired Medina County teachers from kindergarten to college level are invited to attend and share ideas, renew and make new friendships, and learn about interesting programs and trips. Reservations are required and can be made by sending a check for $12 made out to MCRTA to Joanne Knudsen, P.O. Box 188, Sharon Center, Ohio, 44274. Donations of personal hygiene items are needed to support the groups community service project. The public is invited to attend the Speakers Series part of the meeting, which will begin at 12:45 p.m. The guest speaker will be Baji Panchumarti. He was born in a small village in southern India and was fascinated by math and technology at an early age. He attended the India Institute of Technology, ITT and the University of Cincinnati. Panchumarti writes custom code and software programs in a variety of software languages. He will speak about staying safe in this ever-changing communications era. May 1 is the deadline to apply for either a MCRTA Scholarship or a Boomhower Active Teacher Grant. Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to juniors and seniors in the College of Education. Contact Amy Panchumarti for further information at Amy4Ohio@Gmail.com. Any teacher with a special project they would like to implement can download a $200 grant application from the website. After thoughtful and careful review of the Boomhower Grant Applications for the school year 2018-2019, the Grant Committee has chosen the following teachers to receive $200 each to help implement their special projects: Neil Rainey, Reading Workshop Cloverleaf High School/Cloverleaf Local Debra Marshall, Caring Kids-Connecting Kids Applewood Elementary/Brunswick City Abby Elliott, Rockin for Reading, Writing and Arithmetic Wadsworth High School/Wadsworth City Kristy Piper, Rhythmically Moving and Teaching Culture through Folk Dancing Towslee Elementary/Brunswick City Joan Zacharias, Chalk Ceiling Tiles Granger Elementary/Highland Local. Presentations by these educators will be featured at the June luncheon meeting. NORTH OLMSTED, Ohio -- Possession of marijuana, Country Club Boulevard: An officer stopped a car at about 5:15 p.m. March 12 for driving 44 mph in a 25 mph zone. The officer noticed the smell of raw marijuana coming from the car, according to police. The driver denied having any pot, but a search of the car turned up several sandwich-size plastic bags containing 6.4 grams of marijuana in the womans purse. Officers also recovered a vape pen from the womans purse and a glass bong from the cars trunk. Police cited the woman for speeding and possession of marijuana. Petty theft, Brookpark Road: Officers responded at 2:06 p.m. March 11 to Walmart regarding a suspected shoplifter in custody. A loss prevention officer said she had seen the female suspect at a self-checkout register and observed her scanning some items and not scanning others. A video of the incident backed up the security guards observations, police said. The suspect is accused of trying to steal $49 worth of store merchandise. A second suspect was arrested at about 6:27 p.m., also on March 11, for using the same method of only ringing up some items to try to steal more than $104 in merchandise. A third suspect using the same technique was arrested about 4:10 p.m. March 12 when she tried to take more than $48 worth of food items by not ringing up all of her items at a self-checkout register. Possession of marijuana, Brookpark Road: Police stopped a car at 9:42 p.m. March 12 for having an expired license tag. An officer approaching the car reported smelling burnt marijuana. During a probable-cause search of the car, police found a small amount of marijuana after the driver told them to check the center console. Police issued a warning citation for expired plates and cited the driver for possession of marijuana, a minor misdemeanor. Petty theft, Brookpark Road: Two officers responded at 11:31 a.m. March 14 to Macys department store after store security reported detaining a suspected shoplifter. A loss prevention officer reported spotting the male suspect conceal three fragrance gift scents inside a jacket pocket, then try to leave the store. The total value of the merchandise was $350. The suspect is charged with petty theft. If youd like to comment on this story, visit Saturdays crime and courts comments section. UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, Ohio -- The city, on Monday, became the 21st in Ohio to pass legislation raising the legal age for purchase of tobacco, nicotine and vaping products from 18 to 21. Councilwoman Michele Weiss Councilwoman Michele Weiss, who introduced the legislation, said of the new law, "The vaping epidemic has moved our country back decades in the fight against nicotine addition. I feel this ordinance is a prime example of why I ran for office -- to make meaningful impact in the community for the betterment of our residents. The driving factor behind this was our youth, and the increase in vaping, which is really unprecedented, she said. The country has really made strides in reducing smoking and nicotine addiction in the last few decades, and its actually increasing now, which is unheard of. Council approved the measure by a 6-0 vote (Councilman Phillip Ertel was not present). Later in the same evening, Lakewood became Ohios 22nd city to pass such legislation. Last fall, Cleveland Heights City Council passed an ordinance making 21 the legal age for nicotine and vaping purchases. Before voting on the matter, University Heights City Council heard from Rick Novickis, director of Environmental Public Health Services for the Cuyahoga County Board of Health. Novickis applauded the legislation and told council that nearly 40 million Americans smoke, and almost 5 million middle and high schoolers use at least one tobacco product, including e-cigarettes. The primary source of tobacco products for underage smokers, he said, is their 18- to 21-year-old peers -- their brothers, their sisters, their peers from school. He said that, to date, seven states and 425 communities throughout the country have implemented a law making 21 the legal age for purchase. Since more than 95 percent of addicted smokers start before the age of 21, implementing legislation like this will help minimize the number of kids who actually start smoking, Novickis said. Also present at Monday's meeting was Wendy Hyde, representing Tobacco 21, a national campaign aimed at raising the minimum legal age for tobacco and nicotine products to 21. Hyde told those present that studies show that in places where the legal age was increased to 21, teen smoking dropped by 40 percent. "This policy works," she said. "It's not going to solve all of our issues, but it certainly will have a significant result." Mayor Michael Dylan Brennan said at the meeting that the absence of smoke and the addition of sweet flavors to e-cigarettes can make them more attractive to young people, while still encouraging ingestion of nicotine. "Legislating the health, safety and welfare of our community is a valid role of the city government, and there is a valid public health concern that makes this legislation proper," Brennan said. "We don't have to prevent every sale or acquisition of these products in order for this law to be a positive statement and policy, stop some nicotine sales to the youth in our city, and make some progress in advancing public health." Upper Arlington became the first Ohio city to pass a law increasing the legal age of purchase to 21 in June, 2015. Since then, other cities have included Cleveland, Columbus, Akron, Euclid, Wickliffe and Brooklyn. Brennan signed the University Heights legislation into law on March 19 and it will become effective April 18. CLEVELAND, Ohio General Motors asked a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the United Auto Workers labor union over the car companys decision to shutter plants in Lordstown plant and other states. The car company said in court filings Thursday that the union has two grievances pending over the companys decision to idle plants in Lordstown and Michigan, and did not go through arbitration before filing suit, as required by a collective bargaining agreement. It also says the agreement prohibits the union from suing if grievances are open. (You can read the filing here or at the bottom of this story.) The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Youngstown last month, said the automaker agreed in an October 2015 letter to not close or idle any of its plants for the duration of the unions collective bargaining agreement. That agreement does not expire until September of this year, yet the company announced Nov. 26 that it plans to shutter its Lordstown assembly plant, along with other plants in Michigan, Maryland and Canada. The lawsuit asked a judge to order GM to keep open plants in Lordstown, suburban Baltimore and suburban Detroit for the duration of the union contract. GMs plans would cut 14,000 jobs. Of those, more than 1,400 were in Lordstown, which the company says it will close as it winds down production of the Chevrolet Cruze. The Lordstown plant went idle earlier this month. GM said the grievances pertained to what the union considered violations of the October 2015 letter. The company also filed documents formally answering the unions lawsuit, as well as asking a judge to move the case to a federal court in Michigan. The union also sued GM in January over its use of temporary workers at a plant in Fort Wayne, Indiana, instead of laid-off workers from Lordstown. GM denied any legal wrongdoing. Both cases are assigned to U.S. District Judge Benita Pearson. General Motors and its decision to idle the Lordstown plant have been on President Donald Trumps mind this week. He tweeted an attack on UAW Local 1112 President Dave Green, head of the union that represents Lordstown workers. The president wrote that Green needed to get his act together and stop complaining, suggesting it is the union boss fault that the plant shut down. Democrat UAW Local 1112 President David Green ought to get his act together and produce. G.M. let our Country down, but other much better car companies are coming into the U.S. in droves. I want action on Lordstown fast. Stop complaining and get the job done! 3.8% Unemployment! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 17, 2019 Ohio Democrats and presidential candidate Beto ORourke, who visited Green during a trip to Ohio this week, defended the union head in the wake of Trumps tweet. Trump, with top Republican lawmakers from Ohio positioned behind him, didnt stop there, and blamed the union during a trip to Lima on Wednesday. He said GM could have kept the workers in the factory if the union lowered its dues. Earlier in his speech, Trump said GM CEO Mary Barra moved too slow in getting the Lordstown plant operational again either through new production or selling it to another manufacturer. News outlets reported that Cleveland car dealership magnate Bernie Moreno submitted a proposal to GM to keep the plant open, but that the company turned it down. GM spokesman Dan Flores said in a statement that the company received inquiries from interested parties related to Lordstown and the Cruze, and that the company would consider what it considers viable business proposals. To be clear, under the terms of the UAW-GM National Agreement, the ultimate future of the unallocated plants will be resolved between GM and the UAW, Flores said. We remain open to talking with all affected stakeholders, but our main focus remains on our employees and offering them jobs in our plants where we have growth opportunities. We have now placed over 1,000 employees from our unallocated plants to other GM locations, and we have opportunities available for virtually all impacted employees. EASTLAKE, Ohio -- A 20-year-old man has been charged after being accused of assaulting a 17-year-old boy he caught sexually assaulting a 5-year-old boy, police say. Richard Adams, of Painesville, is charged with felonious assault in the incident that happened about 8:15 p.m. Thursday on East 363rd Street near Vine Street, according to court records and a police report. The 17-year-old has been charged with rape, the report says. Adams walked in on the boy sexually assaulting the child and started fighting with him, the report says. Police did not say if either of them were injured or provide any information on the childs condition. Police have not released any further details on the incident. If youd like to comment on this story, visit Saturdays crime and courts comments section. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A St. Patricks Day argument between two men who ran out of beer led to one hitting the other over the head with a folding ladder, court records say. Matthew Flint, 32, is charged with felonious assault in the incident that happened Sunday at an apartment on West 130th Street near West Avenue, according to court records. He is not in custody, but a warrant was issued Wednesday for his arrest. A 61-year-old man told investigators that Flint also smashed his TV and computer monitor, and threw some of his living room furniture, police reports say. Flint rents a room from the man, and the two were drinking together when the incident occurred sometime between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m., police reports say. Flint asked the man for his last beer, with the promise that he would return him three beers at some later occasion. The man agreed, and Flint drank the final beer. He asked for more beer, but the man told him that he didnt have any. The two men argued, and Flint started breaking things in the living room, police reports say. The argument spilled into the kitchen, where Flint grabbed a folding ladder and hit the man over the head, police reports say. The report does not list the size of the folding ladder. Flints girlfriend eventually stepped in to break up the fight, and Flint left the apartment with her. The man, who suffered cuts on his head and both thumbs, called a friend to take him to a hospital. He underwent a CT scan, which did not reveal any other injuries. He returned home to find his cellphone missing and all four of his cars tires slashed. The police report and court records do not say who stole the phone and slashed the tires. To comment on this story, visit Fridays crime and courts comments section. FAIRVIEW PARK, Ohio -- A Pattons Five Star Towing employee will lose half his leg after being pinned under his truck bed when a car crashed into it. The tow truck driver, who has worked at the towing company for a year, was towing a car when another car struck his truck and crushed his leg, according to a statement from Pattons Towing on behalf of the Association of Professional Towers. Pattons Towing reports that he will have the lower half of his leg amputated. The statement does not say which one. However, we are all very optimistic about his recovery, the statement says. In his first two days at the hospital he already has the mindset of coming back to work, which is outstanding giving the seriousness of his injury. The crash happened Monday about 4 a.m. on Lorain Road near West 204th Street, Fairview Park police said. An officer requested a tow truck for a car that was stopped in the eastbound lane on Lorain Road near West 204th Street. The tow driver started to put the car onto the tow truck when a westbound Acura on Lorain Road struck the tow struck on the drivers side, police said. Both the police cruiser and tow truck had emergency lights activated when the crash happened. The crash pushed the tow truck on top of its driver and pinned him under the truck bed. Officers gave first aid to the driver of the Acura and the tow truck driver until Fairview Park fire arrived. Police have not said if the 35-year-old driver of the Acura has been charged. Those who would like to donate can do so at Pattons Towing on Lorain Road near Stearns Road in North Olmsted. If youd like to comment on this story, visit Saturdays crime and comments section. CLEVELAND, OhioPlanned Parenthood locations across Ohio on Thursday received notice from the Ohio Department of Health that their state funding will end next month. The notice comes following a federal appeals court ruling this month that upheld a 2016 Ohio law forbidding the state from sending preventive health funding to any organization, or affiliate of an organization, that performs or promotes non-therapeutic abortions. The law was signed by former Gov. John Kasich. The letter from ODH, which was dated March 21, informs the organizations 26 locations that as of April 20, they will no longer receive funding for a wide variety of programs formerly supported by the state. Last year, ODH gave about $600,000 in grants to Planned Parenthood, according to a spokesman for the department. The state money funded programs such as sexual assault services; breast and cervical cancer prevention; the STD (sexually transmitted disease) Control program; the Minority HIV/AIDS initiative; as well as five programs designed to reduce infant mortality, including CenteringPregnancy and Moms and Babies First, a neighborhood outreach program targeting high-risk black women. There are three Ohio Planned Parenthood locations that provide abortions in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Bedford Heights but the nonprofits that provide these services, Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio and Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region, do not use public money to fund them. The two organizations sued after the 2016 law was signed. On March 12th, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati ruled 11 to 6 to reverse a federal judges decision to declare the 2016 law unconstitutional. ODH Director Amy Acton responded to Planned Parenthoods motion to stay the appeals court decision, asserting that a stay amounted to a delay tactic; that the organization would not likely get Supreme Court review of the decision or win the case if it did; the funding loss was not significant and would not irreparably harm the organization; that the state would ensure that other organizations and healthcare providers would fill the gap in programs; and that an immediate issuance of the mandate is in the public interest. Scroll down to see the full text of Actons response and the letter from ODH. After receiving Thursdays letter, Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio CEO Iris Harvey tweeted: Gov DeWine is HEARTLESS. Just got a 30 day notice from Health Dept. Defunding Planned Parenthood work to reduce Black infant mortality, prevent violence against women, provide cancer screenings, HIV tests and sex education! All care health depts couldnt do! IRIS E. Harvey (@CeoGreaterOhio) March 21, 2019 In a statement, Harvey said the short notice provided by ODH will gravely impact patients and communities across Ohio." Harvey added: "Ohio continues to put politics over people, putting them at greater risk. This isnt about politics, this is about lifesaving health care. Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May makes a statement following winning a confidence vote, after Parliament rejected her Brexit deal, outside 10 Downing Street in London, Britain, January 16, 2019. Clodagh Kilcoyne | Reuters Perhaps the best one can hope for this coming week in the United Kingdom, in light of a slightly extended Brexit deadline to April 12, is something akin to a failed suicide. As is sometimes the case after narrowly escaped tragedy, the potential victim draws meaning from the exhilaration of unexpected survival. Perhaps, by some miracle in the coming days, wiser heads in the UK government and parliament can construct a longer Brexit extension for a year or more that would allow a period of national reflection, resulting possibly in a new general election or even a second referendum, a so-called "people's vote," on whether to leave the European Union under now-known terms. Perhaps, British legislators will see this reexamination as the only alternative, having soundly rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plan twice an agreement the EU has insisted it won't renegotiate. They voted as well against the only other outcome on offer: a hard, no-deal Brexit with all its devastating economic consequences. The process of elimination would seem to leave only one logical way forward. So perhaps it is not too late for one of the world's great parliamentary democracies to come to its senses and concede that the country knows now what was unclear at the time of the June 2016 referendum: the United Kingdom will be economically poorer and politically less influential under any Brexit plan. The run-up alone by one estimate is costing the British economy 40 billion pounds annually and 2 percent of GDP. Perhaps even Brexit advocates will have learned that their argument that leaving the EU would allow British citizens to "take back control" of their country was always a false premise. Nothing could have made that clearer than the huddle of 27 European leaders this week, laying down the final terms dictating when exactly the British people will leave the EU and under which circumstances. And, perhaps even the most frustrated and angry Eurocrats in Brussels will remind themselves that both Europe and the UK will be less if the current suicidal course isn't replaced by urgent intervention and reconsideration. Perhaps, just perhaps, by next week pigs will fly. Impossible dream Yes, it may be an impossible dream that the United Kingdom's ongoing nervous Brexit breakdown could end as outlined above. Yet the past week has made it more possible. The new facts: EU leaders in Brussels have given the United Kingdom just the sort of breathing space that could result in a better outcome. Parliament will vote again next week on the Theresa May plan, and if they approve it May 22 will be the Brexit date, one day before EU parliamentary elections. It would be a shame if it happens, as the consensus is that all sides dislike the plan. If parliament fails to pass it, EU leaders have given their British partners until April 12 to indicate what's next. As the Danish Prime Minister put it, the new date gives the UK, "an opportunity to rethink the whole thing," as it is the last possible time the UK could decide to participate in European Parliament elections, which could also unlock the lengthier process. This column has been waiting for the right moment to opine on Brexit, after long weeks of watching the UK's national nightmare, Europe's delusional underestimation of the costs to itself, the United States' unfathomable amnesia about the historic costs of a divided, wayward Europe riven by growing nationalism. For me the moment of truth came Wednesday evening in seeing British Prime Minister Theresa May blame her country's ongoing crisis on her own parliament, the House of Commons, not only one of the world's grandest deliberative bodies but also a group upon whom her continued leadership ultimately rests. She spoke to her citizens for four minutes, standing at her lectern at 10 Downing Street, using that brief time at such a historic moment more to apportion blame than provide solutions. "Two years on, MPs have been unable to agree on a way to implement the UK's withdrawal," she said. "Do they want to leave the EU with a deal? Do they want to leave without a deal? Or do they not want to leave at all? So far parliament has done everything possible to avoid making a choice." She then abruptly turned and walked off, leaving British MPs infuriated over her blunt accusations, and the chances for her deal being approved even further diminished. Parliament must decide Italy considers joining Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, which could reignite ancient trade route that was featured in classical works of art. The lands of Italy and China have been connected for more than two millennia, thanks to the ancient Silk Road trade route. Trade between the two nations began to blossom on an unprecedented scale in the first century BC after the Roman Empire expanded its territory to the east and south. Citizens of the Roman Empire received luxuries such as silk ware from China, while Roman products like glassware were also exported to China. The Silk Road was also central to cultural exchanges between the two nations.Evidence of the exchanges was shown in Beijings National Museum of China in an exhibition called When the Silk Road Meets the Renaissance last summer. Exhibits from museums in China and Italy, as well as the rest of Europe, were arranged side by side for comparison, showing similarities and inspirations from both cultures. The most eye-catching was the wall painting of Flora, the goddess of flowers, standing at the entrance of the exhibition hall. It was unearthed in the ancient city of Pompeii, which was devastated by a volcano eruption in the first century. The goddess wears a gown that appears to be silk, judging from the soft, fluffy pleats. This could be direct evidence for a silk trade between China and the Roman Empire. Apparently, the Romans had no idea how silk was produced. Attorney General William Barr will not be sending a summary of special counsel Robert Mueller's Russia report to members of Congress on Saturday, a senior Justice Department official told NBC News. Barr had suggested in a letter to the leaders of House and Senate Judiciary committees that he might share the conclusions from Mueller's final report as soon as this weekend. NBC reported that Barr was reviewing the document on Saturday at the Department of Justice. The special counsel had delivered the report to Barr on Friday. Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who oversaw the investigation of Russian election meddling and possible collusion with Donald Trump's presidential campaign, are working closely together, the official told NBC. Trump has denied any wrongdoing related to Mueller's probe, which he has long attacked as a "witch hunt." The president, at his private Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida this weekend, has kept quiet about the probe since the report was delivered. White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a tweet Friday that the White House had not yet been briefed on the report, but said "we look forward to the process taking its course." Sanders TWEET Such a development, commonly known as "hard Brexit ," will happen if the British parliament does not back the Withdrawal Agreement that Prime Minister Theresa May has reached with the EU. The agreement has been rejected twice by lawmakers and will be put to a vote again next week. The U.K. could go into a recession if the country ends up leaving the European Union without a deal, Blackstone Chief Executive Steve Schwarzman warned on Saturday. I think they'd go into recession. I think you'd have a real adjustment of their currency and asset values. EU leaders have warned the U.K. that it has one last opportunity to leave the bloc in an orderly way. The EU offered to delay U.K.'s departure until May 22 if British lawmakers support May's deal. If they once again reject the agreement, Britain will leave the EU on April 12 without a deal. "I think that hard Brexit would hit the U.K. very hard. I think they'd go into recession. I think you'd have a real adjustment of their currency and asset values," Schwarzman told CNBC's Eunice Yoon at the China Development Forum in Beijing. Blackstone is one of the world's biggest private equity firms and asset managers. "At least from just reading things, it doesn't appear they're at all prepared for something of that type. And I don't know if their public would really want to do that if they had the chance to vote on, it as compared to other alternatives," he added. Schwarzman's comments contrasted sharply with Brexit supporter Nigel Farage's claims Friday. Farage, the former leader of the U.K. Independence Party, told BBC radio that a growing number of British people will support leaving the EU without a deal after the bloc offered to delay U.K.'s exit. Reuters contributed to this report. Accusations that U.S. President Donald Trump colluded with Russia to help him win the 2016 presidential election "made no sense," said Steve Schwarzman, the chief executive of asset management giant Blackstone. Schwarzman made the comment on Saturday, one day after Special Counsel Robert Mueller delivered his long-awaited report to Attorney General William Barr. Mueller and his team investigated possible collusion between Trump's presidential campaign and Russia. "The allegations that the president and the senior people were conspiring with Russians to rig an American election ... just made no sense to me," Schwarzman told CNBC's Eunice Yoon at the China Development Forum in Beijing. Yoon had asked whether the Mueller report could become a risk to the U.S. and global economy. Schwarzman became an important backer of the GOP after the 2016 election, donating just over $12.8 million to the party last year. The billionaire didn't donate to the Trump campaign during the 2016 presidential race, nor did he endorse Trump's candidacy then, according to The Washington Post. The findings of the Mueller report have not been made public, and it's still not clear how much will be revealed. So far, 34 people and three Russian companies have faced charges as a result of the investigation. Former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling is looking at ways to return to the energy business, according to two sources familiar with his activities. Among the ventures he is considering is an idea he came up with in 2015 and put to paper while serving a federal prison sentence for his role in Enron's 2001 collapse. Skilling, 65, completed that sentence last month, and has been meeting with friends and former colleagues since his release into a residential re-entry program in Houston last August. News of his possible return to the industry was first reported Friday by the Wall Street Journal. Skilling declined to comment. The sources described Skilling's idea, broadly, as a software program for oil and gas investors. They stressed that the project is in its early stages. No investors have put any money into the venture, though some individuals who provided input have been required to sign non-disclosure agreements. Skilling developed the idea as an inmate at a federal correctional facility in Montgomery, Alabama, and apparently worried for the rest of his sentence that someone else would come up with the idea before he got out. Among those Skilling has been discussing his ideas with, the sources said, is Lou Pai, the former head of Enron's Energy Services division, now an industry consultant. Pai could not be reached for a comment. Contrary to other reporting, the sources told CNBC that the venture does not involve cryptocurrency or blockchain technology. And they said it is one of a number of paths Skilling is considering in hopes of returning to the industry he knows best. Protesters chant slogans as during the 'yellow vests' demonstration on the Champs-Elysees near the Arc de Triomphe on December 8, 2018 in Paris France. The French government vowed to strengthen security as yellow vest protesters stage a 19th round of demonstrations, in an effort to avoid a repeat of last week's riots in Paris. Authorities banned protests Saturday from the capital's Champs-Elysees avenue and central areas of several cities including Bordeaux, Toulouse, Marseille and Nice in the south, and Rouen in western France. In Paris, some yellow vests protesters were gathering Saturday morning on Trocadero plaza, next to the Eiffel Tower. Others issued calls for a demonstration from the Denfert-Rochereau plaza, in southern Paris, to tourist hotspot Montmartre in the north. The new Paris police chief, Didier Lallement, who took charge following last week's protests, said specific police units have been created to react faster to any violence. About 6,000 police officers are deployed in the capital and two drones are helping to monitor the demonstrations. Authorities also deployed soldiers to protect sensitive sites and allow police forces to focus on maintaining order during the protests. President Emmanuel Macron on Friday dismissed criticism from opposition leaders regarding the involvement of the military. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft apologized to his family, friends and fans and vowed to regain their confidence and respect in his first public statement since being charged with two counts of soliciting prostitution as part of a human-trafficking probe in South Florida. His statement, below, comes after prosecutors offered Kraft a deal on March 18 to drop charges of soliciting prostitution in exchange for an admission that he could have been found guilty in the case if prosecutors presented their evidence at trial. "In deference to the judicial process, I have remained silent these past several weeks. To correct some of the misinformation surrounding this matter, my attorney made his first public comments on Friday night. I would like to use this opportunity to say something that I have wanted to say for four weeks. "I am truly sorry. I know I have hurt and disappointed my family, my close friends, my co-workers, our fans and many others who rightfully hold me to a higher standard. "Throughout my life, I have always tried to do the right thing. The last thing I would ever want to do is disrespect another human being. I have extraordinary respect for women; my morals and my soul were shaped by the most wonderful woman, the love of my life, who I was blessed to have as my partner for 50 years. "As I move forward, I hope to continue to use the platform with which I have been blessed to help others and to try to make a difference. I expect to be judged not by my words, but by my actions. And through those actions, I hope to regain your confidence and respect." Kraft and two dozen other men were charged in February in a police sting as part of a human trafficking probe focusing on massage parlors in Florida. Kraft was hit with two misdemeanor counts of soliciting prostitution and has pleaded not guilty. The businessman was not accused of human trafficking. Authorities said Kraft had visited a spa in Jupiter, Florida, on Jan. 19 and 20 in two different Bentleys and received sexual services in exchange for money. Both visits were captured by cameras police had hidden in the Orchids of Asia Day Spa. The Wall Street Journal reported last week that Kraft will have until his next court appearance on March 28 to decide whether to accept the deferred prosecution offer or to move the case toward trial. Correction: This story's headline was updated to reflect that Kraft was charged, not arrested. The head of mining giant Rio Tinto says he isn't worried about China's slowing growth and he sees "lots of opportunities" in the world's second largest economy. "There is no doubt that the Chinese economy is still slowing down, but it is as expected. Even growing 6, and 6 and a half percent, is a massive number," CEO Jean-Sebastien Jacques told CNBC's Eunice Yoon at the China Development Forum in Beijing on Saturday. Compared with growth rate of Europe, the U.S. and Canada, China's projected expansion of 6 to 6.5 percent is still a "big number," Jacques said. China is a large-scale buyer of mined commodities from Australia, where Rio Tinto one of the world's largest metals and mining companies has major operations. The U.S. Federal Reserve downgraded its economic outlook for 2019 last week, and now sees growth of just 2.1 percent for the United States this year, down from the 2.3 percent estimate in December. This month, Europe's central bank cut its growth projection for the bloc to 1.1 percent in 2019 and 1.6 percent in 2020 and announced a slew of stimulus measures. Jacques said that Rio Tinto is well placed to benefit from China's infrastructure spending. It is "very good for us," he said. "The more iron ore you need, high quality iron ore, the more bauxite, the more copper, the better it is for Rio Tinto ... We are one of the first players here, we've been there for more than a hundred years." US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing on Feb. 15, 2019 President Donald Trump is sending U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to Beijing, China, on Thursday to continue U.S. trade talks with China, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Saturday. On Feb. 22 Chinese President Xi Jinping had delivered an optimistic message to Trump, calling on the U.S. and China to redouble their efforts to meet halfway on a trade deal that had been the subject of high-level bilateral meetings in Washington that week. Lighthizer, who had attended the Oval Office meetings, said negotiations had made some progress but noted that "a few very big hurdles" remained. The U.S. negotiators will be accompanied by Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Jeffrey Gerrish and other senior officials from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and the Department of the Treasury. According to Sanders, the United States looks forward to welcoming a delegation from China, led by Vice Premier Liu He, for meetings in Washington starting on April 3. The trade war between the U.S. and China which has threatened global growth was a result of "economic illiteracy" on the part of President Donald Trump, according to an economics professor at Columbia University. Trump has on many occasions said the trade imbalance between the U.S. and China is a sign that America is being "ripped off." The president has made reducing that disparity one of his goals in the ongoing trade negotiations between Washington and Beijing. "The problem with the trade talks is that it's all based on a false premise. The premise is that somehow China's trade imbalance is because of unfair practices. This is the kind of economic illiteracy of the president of the United States," Jeffrey Sachs, a professor at Columbia University, told CNBC's Martin Soong on Saturday at the China Development Forum in Beijing. "The whole trade war is premised on two false ideas: One is that China cheats ... the second idea is that China is a menace," he added. CNBC contacted the White House outside U.S. business hours to request for a comment on what Sachs said, but has yet to hear back. Sachs is not the only one who has challenged Trump's aim to reduce the U.S.-China trade imbalance. Other economists have also said that the the trade gap which measures imports and exports between two countries doesn't adequately reveal who's winning or losing in a relationship. However, others have also said that Trump isn't wrong to accuse China for its unfair trade practices. The European Union, for example, similarly alleged that Beijing forces foreign companies to hand over their technological know-how in exchange for access to its massive domestic market. 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. 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. The Missourians Opinion section is a public forum for the discussion of ideas. The views presented in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missourian or the University of Missouri. If you would like to contribute to the Opinion page with a response or an original topic of your own, visit our submission form Throughout Brexit, there have been two apparently fixed points on the EU side of the negotiations. The first was their remarkable cohesion, in the face of a deeply divided British political class, and the second was their solidarity with Dublin. As this Governments efforts to negotiate Brexit reach their apparent nadir, it is worth paying attention to the other side of the table and noting that something appears to have shifted this week, at least with regards to the former point. The apparent willingness of certain EU leaders to go for no deal, rather than endlessly indulging Parliament with a series of extensions in which it can continue to vote down the Withdrawal Agreement, seems to contradict the Unions policy of catering to the particular needs of the Republic of Ireland. Whilst the EU is perfectly willing to roll out the high-minded rhetoric about the vital importance of an invisible border whilst attempting to persuade the UK to adopt the backstop, it seems improbable that they would content to allow unregulated goods to flood into the Single Market through Northern Ireland in the event of no-deal. On top of the serious economic consequences, this is one of the reasons that Leo Varadkars government has good reason to be deeply worried by the prospect hence our Editor floating the Varadkar Test as a gauge of Theresa Mays real willingness to pursue such a course. By apparently hardening their attitude towards one, then, leaders such as Emmanuel Macron seem on the surface to be abandoning their commitments to Dublins interests. Which is a very good reason to think it might be a bluff, of course, but if it is a bluff it has been deeply unhelpful for a Prime Minister who needed Brexiteer MPs to think that a no-deal exit had been taken off the table to win them round to her Withdrawal Agreement. Could it be the case that they are simply running out of patience with the whole process, and losing their cohesion as a result? The fact that Angela Merkel appears to have had to rebuke both Macron and Donald Tusk, and emphasise in strong terms that a no-deal Brexit must be avoided, certainly suggests so. And there is no doubt that there is genuine concern about whether or not the UK takes part in the next European elections, a decision which must be made soon and which could impose tight legal limits on any deferment. But it is a long way from there to thinking that Brussels really will abandon its previous priorities, especially against the wishes of the German Chancellor, and facilitate no deal. It still seems more likely that, for now at least, EU leaders will if pressed swallow their frustrations and grant a long extension almost certainly with strings attached if the British Government seeks one. If that is the case, this rare crack in the united front could possibly not have come at a worse moment for May. Just when some of them felt she had the gun to their heads, Macron has muddied the waters. At the Port of Kaohsiung, the Pier 2-10 area has been revamped and open to the public since last December as the Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC) looks to diversify and expand beyond its core business. Former warehouses have been turned into creative venues for leisure and recreation for cruise guests at the waterfront. The distinct ocean atmosphere along with creative industries are highlighted to transform the old port area into a sustainable and innovative port, according to a statement. The new business model has successfully transformed the old port area, diversified the port functions and further increased the sustainability of the port. The port is also looking forward to be a first-time homeport operation from Dream Cruises later this year as the premium brand is set to sail a four-day cruise roundtrip from Kaohsiung to Okinawa and Ishigaki Island. By next January, a new cruise terminal will be open for mega ships in Kaohsiung, able to accommodate the latest Oasis- and Global-class vessels, TIPC said in a statement. At the port of Keelung, the bustling cruise hub is planning for a renovated passenger terminal to be completed later this year to handle the increasing volume of cruise guests. A new landmark building for exhibitions and a hotel is also underway in the port area. There is also the Port of Taichung which recently saw a large investment, with a new designated area for waterfront recreation, shopping and commercial activity. The recent grand opening of the Mitsui Outlet Park is just the start, according to TIPC, which said it will cooperate with the Taichung City Government to introduce hotels and recreation facilities in the area, and construct a yacht marina and cruise terminal. According to Norwegian authorities, a cargo ship that had diverted from its course to assist to the Viking Skys mayday call has now issued its own mayday call following an engine failure. The cargo ship could be seen listing, via camera coverage from Norwegian broadcaster NRK. Local authorities are reporting nine crew will be airlifted off the cargo ship to safety. The Stamford Public Education Foundations 12th annual Excellence in Education Awards took place Thursday with over 400 attendees. The event, designed to celebrate excellence in education, highlighted the work of a handful of educators. The SPEF Educator Award was given to Stamford High School teacher Janell Iyer, while the 2019 Teacher of the Year award was handed to to Julia A. Stark Elementary School teacher, Katelyn Tavolacci, during the ceremony at the Sheraton Stamford Hotel. Westhills Jazz Ensemble welcomed attendees into the event, who were then ushered downstairs to a networking reception. Sixty baskets were on display at the silent auction, which included items donated by The Palace Theatre, Zaza Restaurant, OrangeTheory, and other SPEF supporters. The award ceremony began with Project Music and Turn of River seventh grader Jade Rueda singing the National Anthem. The SPEF Leadership Award was awarded to Barbara Dalio for her efforts in supporting public education in Connecticut as the co-founder and director of The Dalio Foundation. NatWest Markets CEO Paul Stevelman accepted the SPEF Philanthropy Award on behalf of the company for its volunteer efforts. The SPEF Educator Award went to Iyer, who received a $1,000 donation for her classroom/learning environment. Islamic Center to host professional networking event The Stamford Islamic Center will host an event titled Tri-State Youth Speaker Panel for high school and college students and young professionals Saturday from noon to 4 p.m., at 10 Outlook St. in Stamford. The event will feature speakers Tariq Farid, CEO and founder of Edible Arrangements; Adnan Durrani, CEO and founder of American Halal; Suhail Farooqui, CEO and co-founder of K12 Insights; and Afraz Khan, community liaison for the American Civil Liberties Union. The event will feature panels on growing up as an American Muslim and the American Muslim dream. For information, call 203-550-0067. Temple Beth El to host immigration forum Temple Beth El will host an immigration forum March 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 350 Roxbury Road in Stamford. The forum, entitled Immigration: Separating Fact from Fiction, will cover what is going on nationally as well as what is happening in Connecticut and Stamford, and how to support immigrants in the community. The two speakers are Catalina Horak, executive director of Building One Community in Stamford, and Aleksandr Troyb, an immigration lawyer in Stamford with Benjamin, Gold & Troyb in Stamford. John Mayer sends nonprofit $25,000 to combat AIDS Fairfield native and Grammy-winner John Mayer donated $25,000 to Stamford CARES and its mission to ensure HIV/AIDS-afflicted residents receive high-quality services and care. The $25,000 grant from Mayers donor-advised fund the Back To You Fund of Fairfield Countys Community Foundation comes at a critical time for CARES, according to a news release. We are enormously grateful for John Mayers ongoing commitment to his Fairfield County roots and his investment in the work we do for people living with HIV/AIDS, said Dennis Torres, Family Centers vice president of Health Care Programs. While there have been incredible advances in HIV/AIDS research and treatment, we must continue the battle against this virus and the stigma that continues to surround it. Stamford CARES offers a host of counseling and education services to help children and adults with HIV/AIDS. Services include case management, emergency financial assistance, support groups and referral services. Stamford CARES also oversees all HIV/AIDS prevention services in the Stamford area. Mayer created The Back to You Fund with the Fairfield County Community Foundation in 2003. Since, the fund has donated thousands to nonprofits that promote local community centers, homeless shelters, domestic violence programs, food banks and programs serving people with HIV/AIDS. Gallery to present Stamford artist solo show Stamford artist Julliette Tehranis solo show, titled Nature Abstracted, will be on display in the Phillips and West Galleries at the Stamford Loft Artists Gallery at 575 Pacific St., from March 30 to April 28. An opening reception will take place April 6, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The exhibit includes Tehranis new paintings on aluminum, reflecting her ongoing artistic journey where she explores new ideas and materials. I love working on aluminum, because it enables the paint to be moved around in ways not possible on more traditional surfaces, Tehrani said. Magic is created when intended outcomes develop into unplanned random occurrences. Tehrani returned to painting, her lifetime passion, following a highly successful career as a senior executive in finance. Originally from London, Tehranis artistic themes are influenced by her extensive travels. She paints in her studios in Stamford and the French Riviera. Cannabis software is a necessity for weed businesses navigating the complex regulations surrounding legalization. Out of a growing list of options, the following programs are setting the industry standard when it comes to seed to sale tracking. Seed-to-sale tracking is exactly what the term implies -- complex cannabis laws mandate that weed businesses track their wares literally from seed to sale to prove they are not selling black market weed. Specifically, this means maintaining a database that traces products through cultivation, production, distribution and sale But this goes beyond having a ledger of where a product has been: cannabis software for seed-to-sale tracking typically includes the following elements, among many others, real-time tracking for regulators; state approval at various steps; and lab test results. It also typically contains tools for businesses to keep track of their products, the laws and generally keep their business in the black. These may consist of tax compliance tools, payroll and job boards. Related: California Has a Serious Compliance Problem Complex state regulations necessitate seed-to-sale tracking. Cannabis isnt the only industry that requires intensive tracking -- everything consumable and regulated must follow specific health and safety protocol if its legally to be sold in stores. Food, beverages and drugs all require intense supply chain documentation. Of course, things are a little more intense in the cannabis industry because weed is still illegal federally. People starting a cannabis dispensary have to make sure theyre prepared to abide by a series of state and even country-specific laws that are subject to change. What distinguishes the cannabis software from the competition? There are myriad options when it comes to cannabis software today. The best programs have multiple capabilities for regulators and businesses alike. The cannabis software on this list is already in wide use across the industry and is both easy to use and comprehensive. Wurk Wurk offers high levels of customized for small, medium, and large businesses that want to follow complex regulations all while hiring key employees and keeping payroll and expenses under control. This cannabis software emphasizes the following capabilities all within their mobile-friendly UX: Regulatory compliance and seed to sale tracking Maximizing profits and minimizing costs Hiring and keeping employees Payroll and scheduling The weed business has all sorts of considerations that don't typically apply to "normal" businesses but they do need to deal with hiring, payroll and scheduling like every company does. All of these capabilities are available through Wurks platform, along with in-depth software for regulatory compliance. MJ Freeway This cannabis software provides everything from seed to sale tracking to market forecasts for the industry. Specifically, their program can be tailored for different types of weed businesses, including vertically integrated businesses, dispensaries, delivery services, cannabis oil extractors and cultivators MJ Freeway provides data that goes beyond seed-to-sale tracking. For instance, they can calculate customer retention rates, help businesses submit licenses and create long-term financial plans. Related: Cryptocurrency and the Allure of a Cashless Cannabis Industry BioTrackTHC Tracking products a major part of running a legal weed business. Additionally, that data gives you great insight into how to grow a business based on which are the hottest cannabis products, for example. BioTrachTHC has the capabilities to create comprehensive data reports and provides marketing support based on that data. Specifically, this cannabis software caters to cultivators, dispensaries requiring point-of-sale systems, manufacturers and processors. BioTrachTHC can be customized for any region because it contains the requirements for every unique license within every state. It can also be integrated with Metrc. Metrc Tracking products seed-to-sale is tough for businesses and government agencies. According to their own estimates, Metrc has more than 20,000 users in Colorado. Since 2013, this cannabis software system has tracked at least five million plants. Metrcs capabilities include tracking chain of custody and credentials of parties involved; analyzing trends of businesses within the system; registry of businesses, buyers, physicians, strains and other product information; tracking plants, packages and harvest. Metrc was implemented in 2013 in Colorado when regulators were first confronted with the challenge of regulating cannabis. Today, creating a record of licensed businesses and giving governments a full overview of everything from individual harvests to licenses is a key part of bringing cannabis products to the shelves. Related: NBA Champion John Salley Talks About the 'Seed to Sale' Process for Cannabis Business Trellis This cannabis software helps businesses follow regulations while providing actionable business analytics by enabling cultivators to track their harvests through every step, including charting crop yields. Trellis software is designed for all types of cannabis businesses and has the following features: A dashboard that displays cultivation, manufacturing and other updates in real time Protected chain of custody records Inventory tracking, including crop yields Growers can survey trim yields to moisture levels. Extractors can understand their cost per gram, no matter the process Producers can track plants through every stage. Trellis provides high levels of customization for various types of cannabis businesses and can create reports on each. More cannabis software solutions are available all the time. The challenge of following complex regulations is why supply chain manager is one of the most in-demand cannabis jobs right now. But luckily for weed entrepreneurs, there are more cannabis software options than ever. Today, the best options on the market provide more than supply chain management. They can analyze market trends, help business owners cut expenses and simplify payroll and HR. No matter how challenging cannabis regulations can be, entrepreneurs are finding ways to stay within the law with innovative software. Related: Installing Right Automation Systems at the Workplace Lines, Curves & Charts: The Power of Analytics in Education What Makes AI the Flavour of 2019? Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved Former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld was acquitted in the 2018 fatal shooting of 17-year-old Antwon Rose. Rose was shot three times June 19, 2018, including in the back, as he ran from a car that Rosfeld had pulled over after a reported drive-by shooting in the Pittsburgh neighborhood of North Braddock just minutes earlier. Authorities said that Rose was an unarmed passenger in the vehicle and was not the gunman in the drive-by shooting, but Rosfeld's lawyer argued Rose's shooting was justified. The trial lasted four days, during which time the jury heard from witnesses, experts and Rosfeld himself. NEW HAVEN In 2018, Yale Universitys drivers ignored parking meter limits, parked in bus stops, no-standing zones and on sidewalks, resulting in bills from the city totaling $85,195. That bill, averaging $7,099.58 a month, was mostly for parking at an expired meter, which carried a fine of $20 until July 1, when it increased to $25. The New Haven Register received the 2018 and 2019 invoices from the citys corporation counsels office on Friday afternoon. So far in 2019, the universitys vehicles had been tagged for a total of $27,040. As of Friday, Yales outstanding bill was $5,595. Yale is part of the citys fleet-management program, so it is billed monthly for all of its vehicles violations. The records show that Yale pays its monthly bill, so it is not technically a scofflaw, said Doug Hausladen, director of the citys Department of Transportation, Traffic and Parking. But he said it is not unusual for large fleets to receive numerous tickets. Were nondiscriminatory. We give everyone a parking ticket, he said. Yales monthly bills far outweigh those of the citys biggest individual parking scofflaw, who as of March 18 was Marissa Vasilakos of Stratford. She owed $1,470 on 14 outstanding tickets, according to information from the citys Finance Department. Yales overall total does not show up in that list. As of March 18, the university was listed at 38th, at $500. The reason for the discrepancy could not be determined late Friday. Yale spokeswoman Karen Peart wrote in an email on Tuesday, We understand from our administrators that this has been resolved. Neither Peart nor spokesman Tom Conroy responded when asked why Yale drivers appear to regularly violate the citys parking ordinances. Vasilakos, who could not be reached for comment, sits atop a list that totals $13 million in lost city revenue, an amount that is frustratingly hard to reduce, according to Doug Hausladen, the citys director of transportation, traffic and parking. The amounts are as high as they are because the fines double after 15 days and triple after 30 days, although one ticket for illegal parking, stopping or standing cannot be increased to more than $250, according to the city ordinances. Fines range from $20 to $150, depending on the offense. City spokesman Laurence Grotheer wrote in an email, the day-to-day balance on any one of these accounts depends upon timing within that billing/invoicing/payment cycle. Yale routinely keeps current with the city in terms of paying its parking ticket invoices. However, in its earlier report, sent to the Register on March 11, Yales $1,500 total was based on $500 in tickets issued, meaning that the fines had not been paid within at least 15 days of the ticket being issued. As of Monday, the top 50 scofflaws, according to the citys list, owed $34,134 for 469 tickets. None of the top 10 debtors could be reached for comment. Whether people are overstaying their limit at a parking meter (a $20 penalty) or committing the most egregious violation, parking in a handicapped-only space (a $150 fine), if they do not pay the fine, they are depriving New Haven of money it could use to improve the transportation infrastructure of the city, Hausladen said. Parking is a complex topic in a dense city like New Haven, with time limits and pricing at meters, garage spaces, bike lanes and bus routes all affecting the number of empty spaces left on the street for drivers. People who dont pay the meters or let them run out, or who violate other regulations parking within 10 feet of a fire hydrant, parking less than 25 feet from the corner, crosswalk or stop sign, blocking a driveway or taking up space at a bus stop are inconveniencing others, threatening public safety and holding the city back from making improvements that would benefit everyone, Hausladen said. If the 50 worst offenders owe less than $35,000 out of an outstanding $13 million loss, that means there are an awful lot of people who are trying to beat the system and park for free or who arent paying out of anger because they got back to their car five minutes after the meter ran out and found a ticket on their windshield. The list of 50 includes drivers from Florida, Indiana, South Carolina, Texas and Quebec. All have gone over 15 or 30 days with at least one of their tickets and each has received at least seven. The rest of the Top 10 scofflaws are William Palmieri of New Haven, 17 tickets, $1,410; Giesi Rodriguez of New Haven, 14, $1,260; Theresa Katz of Hamden, 17, $1,200; Luilly Gomez of New Haven, 13, $1,170; Larkins Flooring LLC of Bridgeport, eight, $1,060; Marc Arotsky of Woodbridge, 13, $1,050; Stranja Perrin of Ansonia, nine, $900; and Carmen Figueroa of North Lauderdale, Florida, eight, $885. There are a lot of details to the rules of parking in New Haven. For example, while there is a limit of two hours at most downtown parking meters, which must be fed until 9 p.m., that limit is lifted after 5 p.m., so that you can pay for up to four hours, have dinner and not have to worry about running out to find a new parking space once your meter expires. In fact, its a violation to feed a meter to keep a parking space. Those who do so are called meter repeaters and are subject to a $20 ticket. Youre not supposed to park within 500 feet once you hit the time limit, Hausladen said. Thats roughly one block-length. The purpose of short-term on-street parking is short term. There is a right-size parking location for every parking need. Numerous garages and parking lots are scattered all over downtown. We now digitally chalk tires to make sure the vehicle hasnt overstayed its limit, Hausladen said. We dont do it every day; its pretty time-consuming. But while police and the citys 21 parking-enforcement officers do make a note of cars that havent been moved, It is harder for us to enforce meter repeating than it is a meter violation, he said. Its possible that those further down the list were the victims of imperfect meters, which do break occasionally, but there is the right of appeal. The number of people who tell me directly that they had a problem with their meter is insane, Hausladen said. About twice a week, once a week, a credit card gets stuck in a meter. And people have their reasons for why they didnt deserve the ticket they received. Everyone who drives will park so were all mild experts, Hausladen said. Its really important to approach the work with the empathy that anyone can be a scofflaw, from your law-abiding grandmother to the one whos evading parking tickets, he said. Fines add up Of $13.8 million in outstanding parking tickets, $10.5 million is owed by Connecticut residents, but $2.9 million of that is owed on vehicles with unknown owners. Out-of-state drivers owe $3.1 million, only $1.2 million of which is owned by known vehicle owners, Hausladen said. The balance is from unknown drivers. The city collected $5.29 million from parking fines in fiscal 2018, compared with $6.5 million from the meters. Of 203,000 tickets that are outstanding, the average amount owed after escalators, after everything, is about $68, Hausladen said. In the year ending June 2018, 135,096 tickets were processed. Scofflaws face more than the fines they owe if theyre caught. Anyone who owes more than $200 can have their car booted, and owing more than $400 will get the car towed. The boot fee is $55 and the cost of getting a towed car back is $77 ($88 during a snow emergency). Thats in addition to paying for the tickets, towing fees and outstanding taxes, and theres a $20-a-day storage fee. The fine for violating a snow emergency parking ban is $100, and its $150 for parking in a handicapped space without a permit. If that doubles [it] can get you in the boot, Hausladen said. Another way scofflaws can get caught is when they try to register their vehicles with the state Department of Motor Vehicles, but theyll be kept from registering only if they have more than five outstanding tickets, and the city only reaps about $40,000 a year that way. That represents 0.29 percent of the delinquency, Hausladen said. And the city actively looks for scofflaws, Hausladen said. Crown Towing has a contract with the city to have someone drive around the city, shooting photos of license plates with a camera that then dings the scofflaws it finds. Its not easy to track down people who owe the city money. Our methods of collection are limited by statute and by ordinance, Hausladen said. Collection notices and photographing license plates can go only so far. The challenge of course is that our contractor drives only in the city of New Haven so, once you leave the city of New Haven, our power is diminished considerably. Another ng fact No. 2: There are between 1,000 and 1,200 street spaces downtown, where the object is to churn, as Hausladen calls it, keeping people moving so others can stop to shop or eat. But there are 20,000 spaces in the 24 garages and lots in or close to downtown. On-street parking is a limited common good, Hausladen said. Theres only so much of it and everybody has access to it at some level. But, he added, theres psychologically something about being able to see your destination from your parking space. My job is to equitably distribute this limited common good and my only mechanisms to do this distribution are price, duration and regulations. Then theres the ghost of Concetta Penney Serra. Hausladen did not live in New Haven on July 16, 1973, when Serra was stabbed to death in a 10th-floor stairwell of the Temple Street Garage. But he knows the name well. Her killer was not caught and convicted until 2002, and the crime made the garages less attractive as parking spots than they might otherwise have been. In a dense downtown, parking meters and other strategies serve to keep traffic moving and to make sure its not too difficult to reach the shops, restaurants, theaters, churches and other activities New Haven is known for. Hausladen also wants to encourage people to use mass transit, bike and walk. So having to pay for parking serves a purpose beyond bringing revenue to the city. When its zero dollars, everyone drives, he said. Ideally, downtown parking spots would be about 85 percent full, Hausladen said. When you turn the corner, one or two spaces should be available to you, he said. But Hausladen believes planners need to get away from the notion that there has to be a space for everyone who comes into the city to live or work. Seattle added 40,000 jobs, I believe, to downtown in the last 15 years and theyve added zero cars, he said. This perpetuation of designing for storage of vehicles as a zoning requirement is anti-human. Relying on the ideas of Donald Shoup, a Yale University graduate and author of The High Cost of Free Parking, Hausladen said he would make several changes if he could: He would remove rules for minimum off-street parking spaces for new buildings and he would re-examine the charges for parking. In some places rates would go up; in some places rates would go down, he said. Hausladen would like to target the fines from parking tickets to the areas they come from. I would take the revenue from the system that we create and I would reinvest it in the district that it came from, he said. He would spend the money on streetscape, pedestrian lighting, curbs, bump-outs, bus shelters and benches, all of which would make city living that much more pleasant, he said. edward.stannard@hearstmediact.com; 203-680-9382. Serial entrepreneur Billy Levy has a good nose for business opportunities. In 2007, Levy co-founded a gaming company, which eventually caught the eye of Richard Branson who invested and changed the name to Virgin Gaming. In 2012, Levy co-founded a seed-to-sale marijuana company called Mettrum, which he sold last year for over $430 million (Canadian dollars). Now he's co-founder and president, of SLANG Worldwide, a leading cannabis-focused consumer packaged goods company. The company sells its products in 2600 plus stores across 10 states in the U.S. and has a market value of about $500 million on the Canadian Securities Exchange. Image credit: SLANG Worldwide Here, we do a deep dive into some tips and tricks he's learned along the way. What business tips did you learn from Richard Branson? As an entrepreneur myself, having the opportunity to work with him was a bit of a dream come true. One of the main things that I learned was not to take everything so seriously. It's easy for things to get lost in the shuffle of the day. Richard is a free spirit who's always having a lot of fun, but also like super serious and sharp about what he's doing. And it's a tough balance to have, but he's mastered it. For example, when we first announced Virgin Gaming, I had never done a press conference and been on stage in front of so many people and cameras. I'll never forget how nervous we were, but to him, everything was laughs and jokes, and that helped make things easier on us, which was appreciated. He's been public about his support for legalization. Have you had any conversations with him about getting into the business? Yeah, but not that I can share. He does a lot for the cause and has been very public with a policy-driven approach. He sees it more as a social justice issue. But he's a great supporter of the cause. Related: Richard Branson: Just Say Yes to Smoking Pot With Your Kids You went from a very lucrative exit from the gaming industry to cannabis. Why? A guy I had worked with in Canada, Peter Miller [who is co-founder at CEO of Slang] said to me, "Are you aware that the medical marijuana laws in Canada are changing?" I said no, and I don't care. His family has a deep agricultural background and over a thousand acres about an hour outside of Toronto, and he felt that we could build a grow facility on their land. I was completely uninterested. I had never seen a live marijuana plant before. Having a videogame business was easy for me because I played a lot of video games. I used cannabis, but I had no idea about anything related to growing it or the business of it. But Peter kept sending me news articles and research reports on the entrepreneurial opportunity within the cannabis industry. Finally, I said, "Ok, let's go for it. And that led to Peter, and I did the first new construction project for a license cannabis producer in Canada. Most people were retrofitting old facilities, but we were super naive about it. Long story short, it ended up paying off for us. We were awarded one of the original licenses and co-founded Mettrum together. What was an innovation you introduced there to make you stand out? We found that physicians didn't want to prescribe products with names like Super Lemon Haze and O.G. Purp. So we came up with a color system for our products, which we called the "Mettrum Spectrum" to simplify the conversation. The colors were based around the potency of the product, and it just made it easier for patients and physicians to have a conversation. Describe the idea behind your newest business venture, SLANG. We looked at our experience with Mettrum as fully vertically-integrated producer and distributor of cannabis in a limited license environment in Canada, and that was a great business experience and boot camp in terms of how to actually run one of these grow businesses. But ultimately we saw that there are not any parallels we could think of in which, right out of the gate, you had to be a good farmer, good manufacturer, good marketer brander, distributor, retailer, etc. All of those are very different and separate businesses. Ultimately, cannabis is just a consumer product. And how are consumer products businesses successful in the real world? It's great brands that are really widely distributed. So that's what we've set up with SLANG-- a host of really good brands that have the best distribution. In looking for a partner, we merged with companies like Organa Brands because we saw that they had product in 1200 stores at the time. That was the biggest distribution footprint we had heard of. Would you advise that other cannabis entrepreneurs consider mergers and joint ventures as part of their strategy? Yeah, I think there's a lot of power and collaboration and partnership being that the industry is new and growing so fast. A lot of people do tend to have their elbows out and are a little bit competitive or maybe want to try to do everything themselves. But the reality is that it's just really difficult to do. You could get a lot of value through partnership, and you don't have to do everything yourself. Related: Your Cannabis Company Was Acquired. Now What? What's something that you've learned along the way you can share with other aspiring business owners? I've been lucky, but I think part of the success has been having a real interest in whatever you're working on. I've seen for myself that makes all the difference because there are a lot of times now where it doesn't really feel like work and I'm able to go that much harder because of the interest that I have in the topic. Like I said, I was a gamer, and I played competitively, so the vision was to build this great competitive gaming product. But when I first got into cannabis, I was thinking so much about the growing and agricultural that I didn't ultimately realize this is about building a brand and a market. And that I was going to be working with the type of product that I would also like to consume. Related: Over 2 Billion Served: How This Cannabis Company Got There Cannabis Boxes Curated by Celebrities Are Big Business What Happens When AI Meets a Cannabis Grinder Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved Arlington County, which has been stymied in its long-running effort to change the name of Jefferson Davis Highway, can ask the Commonwealth Transportation Board to do so and does not need the approval of the state legislature, Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring, D, said in an advisory opinion Friday. The opinion could break the logjam over the name of the road, also known as Route 1, which runs from the Potomac River south through Crystal City and to Alexandria. The strongly Democratic northern Virginia communities have long deplored the name, which honors the president of the Confederacy. Last year, Alexandria renamed the portion of the road that runs through its borders, changing it to Richmond Highway. But state law seemed to say that while cities can decide what to call roads, counties cannot alter names set by the legislature. And the Republican-controlled General Assembly has resisted previous efforts by Arlington that would allow a name change. Herring, in a response to a request from state Del. Mark Levine, D-Alexandria, said a statute change in 2012 allows counties to request a name change from the 17-member transportation board, which is appointed by Gov. Ralph Northam, a Democrat. Arlington County Board Chair Christian Dorsey, D, said he thinks the board will make that request quickly. "It's long been our stated intent, and we value highly our ability to name the streets and roads of Arlington County," Dorsey said, citing the importance of the road's name being consistent in Arlington and Alexandria. "I'll have to discuss this with the other board members, but this gives us the ability to move forward." Levine, who represents the area, said in a news release that the county board, despite its desire to alter the name, previously expressed concerns about the legal ramifications of not going through the General Assembly. This opinion lays those concerns to rest, he said. "It's 2019," Levine said. "The vast majority of northern Virginians no longer wants to honor the Confederacy or Jefferson Davis." Bertram Hayes-Davis, a great-great-grandson of Jefferson Davis, said he thinks the highway should keep his ancestor's name as long as it honors his entire life and not just his four years as president of the Confederate states. "History has left him out of a lot of things he did before 1861," said Hayes-Davis, who runs a foundation for Davis in Vicksburg, Mississippi. "Most people don't know he was a West Point graduate, a congressman, served in the Army for eight years, a senator from Mississippi and was secretary of war under Franklin Pierce." The Republican leadership in Richmond had no comment Friday on Herring's opinion. State Sen. Barbara Favola, D-Arlington, who unsuccessfully proposed a bill two years ago to allow Arlington to make the name change and who continues to support it, expressed skepticism Friday that the opinion will make a significant difference. "It is highly unlikely the Commonwealth Transportation Board would overrule the General Assembly," she said. Mary Hynes, a former Arlington County Board member who now serves on the transportation board, said she could not predict the outcome. "It has the potential to end the confusion as to what this road is called. From the Potomac all the way through Fairfax County, it's called Richmond Highway," she said. The name change has long been on the Arlington County Board's list of legislative priorities. The commonwealth made a point of its "inclusivity" when it pitched itself to Amazon nearly two years ago, and the name of the highway, which passes some of the buildings that the online giant will occupy in Crystal City, has been a potential embarrassment to the region. The attorney general's opinion also comes as Northam is in the midst of a listening tour to African American communities in Virginia, after he and Herring both admitted in February that they, as young men, wore blackface to parties. That scandal has led to calls for Northam to resign and has imperiled Herring's plan to run for governor in 2021. Virginia has struggled with how to handle Confederate monuments, flags and statues, as well as schools named after Confederate leaders. It's an issue that came to a boil nationally in 2015 when a man shot and killed nine black worshipers at the historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. The shooter, Dylann Roof, posted a photo of himself with a Confederate flag on social media. In 2017, a rally by white separatists, neo-Nazis and white nationalists protesting the pending removal of a Confederate monument in Charlottesville turned violent and resulted in the death of an anti-Nazi demonstrator. Jefferson Davis Highway was named in 1922 in response to a request from the United Daughters of the Confederacy to build a Southern transcontinental highway in Davis's honor. The road has at least 18 different local names in Virginia, Levine said, adding that Davis was indicted on a charge of treason against the United States in 1865. He was pardoned in 1868 and never tried. I was first elected to the Senate in November 1974, just three months after President Richard Nixon resigned. Congress and the nation were both shaped and scarred by the Watergate scandal, by the strain it placed on our democratic institutions, and the mistrust in government that ensued. Those years serve as a reminder that a democracy hidden from the people is no democracy at all. The parallels between then and now are many. In both sagas, a politically motivated theft - one a burglary, the other a hacking - led to an investigation described by the president as a "witch hunt." In both instances, the sitting president attacked the investigators and fired the lead investigator, leading to concerns that he may have obstructed justice. And in both episodes, the ensuing investigation led to dozens of indictments reaching the closest aides of the president. For President Donald Trump, that includes his former national security adviser, his personal lawyer, a longtime political adviser, the chairman and deputy chairman of his campaign, and an aide who learned months before anyone else that Russia had "dirt" on Hillary Clinton in the form of "thousands of emails." In both investigations, the question ultimately became what did the president know, and when did he know it. Now that special counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his investigation and has submitted a report to Attorney General William P. Barr, I believe it would be a grave mistake for the president to follow the footsteps of Nixon and seek to hide the truth from both Congress and the American people. Nixon fought the release of his secret White House recordings all the way to our highest court. He lost. If Trump attempts to hide the Mueller report, I believe he will lose, too. This week, the president said the Mueller report should be made public. I hope he meant it. But all other signs indicate that he's preparing to mount an aggressive fight to keep at least portions of it hidden. In January, the White House reportedly hired 17 additional lawyers in anticipation of a battle over the report's release. It has been said that the White House expects to review any report for executive privilege before it heads to Congress. And the president's personal attorney, Rudolph W. Giuliani, even previously asserted that the president should be able to "correct" the report before its release - a claim that Barr himself, thankfully, dismissed in response to my question during his confirmation hearing in January. Confirmed as the attorney general last month, Barr has the authority to release the report. On Friday, he stated that he may advise Congress of the report's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, and will subsequently determine how much of the report to disclose to Congress and the public. He should disclose all of it. At his Senate confirmation hearing in January, Barr was clear that executive privilege cannot be used to cover up evidence of a crime. But Barr refused to commit to releasing the report, and would only promise transparency consistent with the law and Justice Department policies. Fair enough, but Barr pointed to two policies that, in concert, could lead to no transparency at all: one prohibiting the indictment of sitting presidents, and the other restricting the release of derogatory information about unindicted parties. Taken together, these constraints could amount to a transparency-stifling catch-22 by which presidential misconduct remains hidden, resulting in a president who is effectively above the law. If the attorney general attempts to hide presidential misconduct by relying on these policies it would, in my view, forever tarnish the Justice Department. On numerous occasions, the Justice Department has disclosed evidence from an investigation when no indictments resulted. In 2016, the department provided Sen. Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and me, as the leaders of the Judiciary Committee, with 46 sensitive FBI witness-interview summaries from the investigation into Hillary Clinton's email server. Just last year, the department publicly released previously classified material relating to an uncharged subject of the Russia investigation. Ultimately, if the administration tries to hide the full Mueller report, the president will find himself relying on the courts to quash a congressional subpoena. No one can predict with certainty what the courts will do, but the United States v. Nixon decision makes a strong case for disclosure. Where there is unparalleled public interest in the material; where Congress has a constitutional role in holding the Office of the Presidency to account; and where the alternative could allow for the concealment of misconduct and national security vulnerabilities within the highest levels of our government, I believe Trump, like Nixon before him, would find little refuge in the courts. The special counsel's 37 indictments already qualify the 2016 attack on our elections as the greatest scandal since Watergate. If the president has nothing to hide, as he claims, he should support the full release of the special counsel's report and its underlying evidence. That would go a long way toward turning the page on a dark chapter in U.S. history. Anything short of that will only raise further suspicion. The truth has a way of coming out in the end. If Nixon taught us anything, it is this: the harder the attempts to conceal the truth, the harder the fall. - - - Leahy, a Democrat, represents Vermont in the U.S. Senate. DERBY If you want to know the secret to living to 100, just ask Nellie Hapak. Laughter, people and Oil of Olay, said Hapak, who was honored for hitting the centenarian mark Friday and for volunteering at Griffin Hospital for nearly 40 years. The hospital helped Hapak celebrate her milestone birthday, complete with citations from the Connecticut General Assembly, Gov. Ned Lamont and the City, along with a giant cake, bouquets of flowers and plenty of well-wishes from friends and family. A giant banner was created in Hapaks honor and prominently displayed on the hospitals front entrance. One gift Griffin President and CEO Patrick Charmel promised to present Hapak with upon turning 100 was a trip to Las Vegas. Well, since Hapak doesnt fly, Charmel came up with a more local solution. He got in cahoots with the folks at Foxwoods wholl honor Hapak with a celebration of their own in the coming weeks. Known as the matriarch of the Griffin family, Charmel and others reflected on Hapaks sassy nature, especially when it comes to one of her favorite pastimes: telling jokes. Hapak, decked out in a stylish navy blue pants suit, and hair and make-up done to the nines, treated the crowd gathered in the hospitals dining room to a gut-busting favorite. Two men were talking and one asked what did you give your wife for your 25th anniversary? Hapak asked her captive audience. I sent her to Italy. The man then asked his friend what will you give her for your 50th anniversary? Im going to get her. The crowd howled in laughter. Laughter is something Hapak said is key to a happy life, and has come in handy as a longtime volunteer, logging in more than 19,000 hours at Griffin. I started volunteering shortly after my husband (of 32 years) died, and it gave me something to do, Hapak said. I stayed this long because I love it. I like to be around people and listen to them, and many of them share their troubles with mekind of like a bartender. Before retiring at age 85, Hapak worked at the former BF Goodrich plant, ran a corner store downtown, doling out penny candy to neighborhood kids who often lingered so long that Hapak said she had chase them out with a broom, and waitressed at several local Valley joints. Hapak was born in Derby in 1919, the year Woodrow Wilson was president, a loaf of bread cost less than 10 cents and you could fill your gas tank for 25 cents a gallon. Marge Deegan, Hapaks niece and Griffins vice president of Ambulatory Services, said that same year, the average life expectancy for a female was 54 years old. Myweve come a long way, said Deegan. And today we celebrate a centenarian. The youngest of six children, Hapak recalled growing up in the 1920s, playing marbles, jacks and hide and seek, and said shes been fortunate to witness three major renovations at Griffin. Diane Betkoski, director of Planetree Services at Griffin, who oversees the volunteer department, said Hapak has been an asset. Volunteering provides a person with a sense of purpose, belonging and need, Betkoski said. Evidence supports the fact that volunteering provides many health benefits. Nellies 100th birthday is a true testament of this. And a daily dose of Oil of Olay doesnt hurt either, Hapak said. In fact, Charmel said he posted a story about Hapak to Proctor & Gamble, which creates the anti-aging skin care line, in hopes theyll gift her with a lifetime supply of the stuff or at best make her a spokesmodel. jean.sos@snet.net Spanish Network of Excellence on Cybersecurity Research (RENIC) is a membership based sectoral association that includes research centers and other agents of the research cybersecurity ecosystem in Spain. RENIC aims to promote scientific research, technological development, innovation, knowledge and technology transference to industry and the development of R&D in the field of cybersecurity. Our Goals: - Improve the positioning of Spanish cybersecurity research and innovation - Cooperate and collaborate with other national and international research networks - Fostering research excellence in cybersecurity - Contribute to the creation of innovative cybersecurity solutions - Representation of the Spanish cybersecurity ecosystem - Identify, attract and retain research talent in cybersecurity at the national level DOWNINGTOWN Downingtown West High School students listened to Vietnam veterans on Friday share their experiences, and how they felt fortunate to come back home. They are willing to share moments and memories which are painful, out of a belief of the importance for future generations to understand this period of history which many would rather try to forget, said teacher Scott Turner, who organized the second annual Downingtown West Vietnam Veterans Symposium for juniors. Army veteran Paul Hanson, originally of California, said there are memories of the war that stick with you forever. When asked about the biggest adjustment to coming from the war, Hanson said with a smile it was different not getting shot at, and the students laughed with him. Navy veteran Frank Roessner, of Drexel Hill in Delaware County, said it was hard for him to listen to fireworks because the loud booms were often heard during the war. Hansen echoed that. If you hear a noise that sounds wrong, youll jump under the table, Hanson added. Youre trained to do that. It takes a while to get that out of your system. Another adjustment for them was coming home to how people treated them. Hanson said it was common for the service members to be spit on at airports when they were back in the states and on their way home. Hanson was even attacked in the bathroom in an airport. I didnt realize three people followed me into the bathroom. (Something) didnt feel right, Hanson said, explaining that the three men called him names and one of them got physical with him. You dont take on a soldier, who just spent four months in the infantry out in the jungle, by yourself. Hanson defended himself at which time an alert police officer came into the bathroom and stepped in to help him. When asked by students, he said the way they were treated by fellow Americans depended on what year they came home from the war. He explained in the earlier years of the war, people applauded them for their service, but later on when the death toll of American service members increased, people began to protest the war and they were unsupported of them. They also mentioned that people watched the violence of the war that the media reported on, and the protests against the war also targeted those who survived the war. People felt our young men were getting killed for no reason, Army veteran Jack Mitch added. Mitch, of Ridley in Delaware County, said reading letters from family and friends back home kept me going and it helped him to survive. Roessner and Hanson agreed that receiving mail was a highlight. Hanson recalls counting down the days until he got to go home, and he said it was always in the back of your mind. The one thing youre thinking about the whole time is riding on that silver bird because that was your ride home, Hanson said. Roessner said his ship had been shot at from underneath them in two separate occasions. Im lucky my name isnt on that wall, he said about the Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. We all are. Roessner and Hanson praised the nurses, who also have a memorial wall, for their life-saving efforts. Mitch wanted to avoid the draft and he enlisted in the Army in 1966 for three years. He was sent to Vietnam in July 1967 and one of his jobs as part of the combat engineers was to clear parts of the jungle. Because the jungle was so thick in Vietnam, you could go right off the edge of a road. The vegetation was so thick that you couldnt see more than a foot or two in front of you, even in broad daylight, Mitch explained. This allowed our enemies to come up to the edge of a road and ambush conveys. Hanson said it was part of his job to search for the bad guys and at times he was assigned to protect the military conveys. He heard about the war every time he turned on the TV and the radio, and its one of the reasons that led him to join the Army, which became a career for him. I was tired of listening and watching, said Hanson, who served in Vietnam from 1971-72. The veterans showed the students the weapons they would use and the traps they had to be careful of while walking through the jungle. During his time overseas, Hanson said they were in fire fights every day and every night. They spent about 20 to 40 minutes sleeping at night because the enemy would fire at them at all hours. Mitch added the enemy wanted to take advantage of them being sleep deprived. Hanson said they carried shovels because the Army wanted you to dig a hole and sleep in it. They said they would each dig three foxholes to make it harder for the enemy to find them, but they noted that the enemy often knew where they were during the fire fights. This was my best friend, Hanson said as he held an M-16. He retired from the Army in 1992 as a sergeant major and now teaches American history at Neumann University. He tells students about some of the positive things they did that were not covered by the media, such as how they would rebuild bridges and buildings. Ever since she became Prime Minister, I have been impressed by Theresa Mays fixity of purpose as she has struggled to push her version of Brexit through the Commons. Ive admired, too, her stoicism and courage but I have to concede that she has now lost her grip. The accounts of her ordeal in Brussels on Thursday made for excruciating reading. She was robotic and unconvincing. She had no answer to the question of what she thought would happen if MPs voted down her withdrawal deal for a third time. Why did she want to extend Article 50 until June 29? No explanation. And with that, Mrs May was exiled to her hotel for seven hours while the leaders of the other 27 EU countries discussed Britains fate. Inevitably, they rejected her proposed date and gave us until May 22 to stay in the EU but only on condition that MPs approve her withdrawal deal. Otherwise, April 12 is the deadline. British Prime Minister Theresa May walks after holding a press conference on March 22, 2019, on the first day of an EU summit focused on Brexit, in Brussels A humbled Mrs May then returned to more humiliation at home. In London, her authority was holed as she was abandoned by some of her own team. Chief Whip Julian Smiths friends made it known that he had described as appalling her TV broadcast on Wednesday night attacking MPs and blaming them for the Brexit deadlock. Just as damagingly, David Lidington her de facto deputy left the impression that he, too, had lost faith in the PM. And Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee of Tory backbench MPs, said that an increasing number want her to resign. To make matters worse, some MPs who previously voted for the Prime Ministers deal reportedly suggested they are likely to withdraw their support. The seemingly killer blow came yesterday tea-time when the Democratic Unionist partys (DUP) deputy leader Nigel Dodds announced his implacable opposition to the Prime Minister. He said: We will not accept any deal which poses a long-term risk to the constitutional and economic integrity of the UK. Tragically, this scenario reminds me of the last days of Margaret Thatcher in No 10. The ruling partys MPs in open revolt. A chief whip stoking disaffection. Theresa Mays problem has been obvious from the start. Shes tried to bring her partys ultra-Brexiteers and Remainers to a compromise. Not only has she failed, they now seem to be further apart than ever. Prime Minister Theresa May leaves the British Residence in Brussels to return to the UK without attending the second day of the EU Council Summit So is she finished? Probably. But dont bank on it yet. There is still a sliver of a chance that she can get her deal through next week. This, though, would not be down to her statesmanship but to the fact that the alternative is a long period of anarchy at Westminster and of uncertainty across the whole country. Let me set out what I see as the likely consequences if Mrs Mays deal fails again, or it doesnt even get voted on. A restless Parliament would probably seize control of Government business if a cross-party Commons motion (sponsored by Labours Hilary Benn and the Tories Sir Oliver Letwin) is successful. (Bear in mind that only two weeks ago a similar bid to wrest the Brexit timetable out of Mrs Mays hands failed by only two votes.) If this happens, Mrs May is doomed. So what next? Considering that the Commons is bitterly divided between hard-Brexiteers, Remainers, soft-Brexiteers, Labour MPs whose eyes are set only on having a General Election, the DUP, the Scottish Nationalists and assorted others there is no way that Parliament would act collectively. One thing is for sure, though: the majority of MPs want either a much softer Brexit than Mrs May is offering, or no Brexit at all. That said, they would be emboldened to instruct a lame duck Mrs May to negotiate a new EU exit arrangement probably something like the arrangement Norway has. Although not an EU member, Norway is in the Single Market but not part of the Customs Union. How utterly galling it would be for Mrs May to be told to adopt a policy shes long repudiated. Conversely, if Mrs May accepts being treated as MPs slave, hard-Brexit Tory MPs and, Im convinced, the majority of her Cabinet who had not already resigned would react with outrage. They would insist that she made clear that Britain would leave the EU with no deal on April 12. But Mrs May would not be able to do that if the Commons had taken the whip hand. If the next few weeks pan out as I describe, I cannot see how Mrs May could survive beyond that point. In her heart, Im sure she knows this, too, and that she would have to quit No 10. A Tory leadership election would then be held, taking several weeks to conclude. Brexiteers Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab would be favourites to win. British Prime Minister Theresa May speaks during a media conference at an EU summit in Brussels, Friday, March 22, 2019. Worn down by three years of indecision in London, EU leaders on Thursday were grudgingly leaning toward giving the U.K. more time to ease itself out of the bloc I can disclose that when the possibility of a leadership contest was discussed in Cabinet last week, May loyalist Liam Fox wisely remarked that the winner would be a king without a kingdom. With the Tories ripping themselves to shreds, there would, of course, be a need for an acting prime minister to helm the tottering government. The most obvious candidate, as I have argued in this column, would be David Lidington. I have known this so-called Invisible Man for more than a quarter of a century. Politically, he favours a softer Brexit than the one offered by Theresa May. A politician who has been trusted by everyone hes worked with, and liked even by opponents, he has no ambition to be Tory leader but I can see him being a stop-gap PM for a few months. He would find himself in charge of a makeshift coalition government, which, considering the chaos the country would be in, would have to include senior Labour politicians. Ironically, although still the governing party, the bulk of the Tory MPs would feel as if they were the opposition. In any case, its hard to imagine such an arrangement lasting long. A snap General Election would become inevitable. I fear that voters, bemused by what was happening in Westminster, would abstain in their hundreds of thousands. Who knows what would happen? But it is conceivable that Jeremy Corbyn who in this scenario would by then be 70 would become prime minister. Yes, the picture I have painted is bleak. But it is very plausible considering the wretched situation that Britain finds itself in this weekend. Mrs May is almost finished. But the alternative is mayhem. Is that what the hard-Brexiteers really want? Britain's Conservative Party Chairman Brandon Lewis walks on Downing Street in London, March 21 Tories must deal with discrimination Tory chairman Brandon Lewis faces allegations which he must prove are untrue otherwise he risks badly damaging the reputation of the Government. An anti-racism group called Hope Not Hate says he lied about Tory attempts to fight Islamophobia. And former Tory chairman Baroness (Sayeeda) Warsi says Mr Lewis has been dishonest. The allegations date back to November when Lewis was asked about the Tory record on Islamophobia. He responded: We deal with complaints. None outstanding. But there were outstanding complaints at the time. One example was that members of Portsmouth South Conservative Association claim that Lewis ignored complaints that had been sent by email and registered post. They include claims a senior party official had referred to an Asian councillor as an orangutan and that minority ethnic members had been omitted from communications. A Conservative Party official referred me to a statement by Lewis in which he said: abuse or discrimination directed at anyone because of religion, race, gender, sexual orientation or disability is totally unacceptable. A self-confessed 'mad scientist' from New Zealand who hand-crafted a yellow submarine is offering Airbnb guests a unique experience for $130 a night - and has been stunned by the array of people eager to spend a night inside. Keith Lovelock and his wife Jen, a part-time nurse, live on a 100-acre section in Marton, which is situated in the North Island of New Zealand. The pair run two Airbnbs - a tiny home that was previously a pump house and a two-story yellow submarine built by scratch by Mr Lovelock, a former radio technician. 'It was a whimsical notion we thought was going to be our playhouse, but it's taken on a life of its own. I was called a daydreamer at school,' he told FEMAIL. This yellow submarine is a two-storied getaway located within a grove of trees on a farm in Marton, New Zealand The sub was constructed from a range of recycled items, many of which came from Mr Lovelock's sheds 'I just started doing it for myself as a fun thing and I wasn't even really sure what I wanted to achieve.' The first element of the sub, a fibreglass silo, was found by accident by Mr Lovelock's wife on Trademe (an online auction site) for $1. After the pair travelled to collect it, they realised the would have to pay $320 to have the awkward item delivered to their farm. This disused wheat silo was discovered on an online auction site and it came with the low price tag of $1 'I remember thinking, "Oh God, what have I done?" I had no idea how to construct a submarine. So it was a matter of looking at books and trying to figure it out,' Mr Lovelock said. 'Then I learnt it basically takes eight to 10 years to design a nuclear submarine and about a billion dollars. 'But I did it in a year, by returning to my childhood.' After the sub was purchased and thoroughly cleaned, Mr Lovelock had it painted yellow as he thought no one would want to stay in a grey vessel The first thing Mr Lovelook did to prepare the silo for its transformation was to water blast it, then he painted it yellow because 'no one would want to stay in a grey submarine'. It was decided the silo - now called the fuselage - would be moved to its new home, among a grove of redwood trees to the rear of the property. 'I wanted it to float in a sea of green - like lyrics from the Beatles song - suspended among redwood trees,' he said. The sub offers an 'immersive experience' albeit one among a grove of redwood trees 'I learnt it basically takes eight to 10 years to design a nuclear submarine and about a billion dollars,' Mr Lovelock said What is a conning tower? * A conning tower is a raised platform on a ship or submarine. * It's used as the bridge when the vessel is on the surface Advertisement Once located in its new environs, Mr Lovelock set to work building the front. This was done using 'some old ray domes' the former technician had spare. Then to add to the shape, a large parabolic disk - another item that also happened to be gathering dust in Mr Lovelock's sheds - was strapped underneath. Working with a vision of creating a vessel that had bulbous shape, Mr Lovelock again turned to his sheds to uncovered a disused spa and repurpose this as a conning tower. 'I have lots of sheds here,' he said, 'because being of Scottish ancestry, I don't like to throw anything away.' The submarine was built using a range of items sourced from online auction sites and in total the couple spent $20,000 The sub sleeps up to four people and comes complete with a double bed and single bed An extractor fan was added to the sub as its propeller. Along the way, the former radio technician added bits off old solar panels, television satellite dish mounts and aircraft flooring for an authentic looking creation. In total, the Lovelocks spent $20,000 on the two-story structure. The exterior of the sub is mostly fashioned from recycled materials with spending for the project largely dedicated to decorating the interior to make it as comfortable as possible for visitors. Mr Lovelock proudly states the job was 100 per cent done by him although he said he was 'egged on by my lovely wife who steered me in the right direction'. The unusual retreat has everything imaginable for a getaway, this includes a shower with hot water, a flushing toilet and running water What facilities does the sub offer guests? *Sleeping arrangements for up to four people; a double bed and a single bed * Running water; a shower and toilet * Electricity * A galley kitchen for cooking which includes a microwave and a fridge * A variety of soundtracks to choose to suit your theme: Beatles, Cold War superpower scenario or World War ll U Boat Source: Airbnb Advertisement In the six months since the yellow submarine has been listed on Airbnb, bookings have 'gone ballistic'. 'The amazing thing is people just get into the theme of it,' Mr Lovelock said. He said as well as the Beatles-esque theme, there are three other influences at play. These include a Cold War superpower theme, a World War ll U Boat theme and the Victorian trend, Steampunk. 'We get Beatles fans who come and listen to all their hits and then there are those who love the claustrophobia of World War ll submarine. The interior of the sub draws on a number of different themes including Steampunk 'Different people get different things from it. Kids come along and act like adults and adults come back and recreate their childhood. Mr Lovelock said female guests tend to have the strangest response to staying in the sub and that inexplicably he has found the John Lennon mannequin in various states of disarray after they've departed. 'Women seem to like to take off his clothes and do photoshoots with him because we quite often find his shirt isn't put on properly or his arm isn't the sleeve.' Mr Lovelock said so far response by those who've stayed has been overwhelmingly positive The handcrafted home isn't ideal for those who feel claustrophobic Despite the odd hiccup with John Lennon, and the occasional person who has 'freaked out with claustrophobia', reactions by guests have been overwhelmingly positive. Mr Lovelock says he's a dreamer whose hobby are disproving relativity and quantum mechanics 'We've even had the NZ Navy turn up. Divers came to stay with us because New Zealand doesn't have a submarine. 'It cracked me up that we had professional divers coming to a fake submarine,' he said. Mr Lovelock remembered other visitors to the sub whose kids had been told by teachers they been dreaming after they'd told them of their visit to his farm. 'I guess it's hard for some to accept an altered reality.' While there aren't any plans in the works for any other flights of fancy, Mr Lovelock said he loves to mess around and that as a dreamer, anything was possible. 'My hobbies are disproving relativity and quantum mechanics - which keeps my brain occupied. 'Building the yellow submarine just kept me physically motivated.' For almost four decades, Jeanette Clabassi suffered constant stomach pains. Multiple doctors dismissed her crippling symptoms as food allergies and even an eating disorder over the years until the Melbourne-based dancer was rushed to hospital with a 'sore tummy' in November 2017. The morning before, the 40-year-old woman said she woke up feeling 'fine' but as the hours went by, her body started to deteriorate. She underwent an emergency surgery before being diagnosed with abdominal cocoon syndrome - a rare condition that causes her intestines to twist into a 'butterfly cocoon' shape inside her stomach. For most part of her life, Jeanette Clabassi (pictured left aged in her 30s) suffered constant stomach pains - and in November 2017, she was rushed to hospital for an emergency surgery (right) where she was finally diagnosed with abdominal cocoon syndrome What is an abdominal cocoon syndrome? An abdominal cocoon syndrome is a rare condition that causes the intestines to twist into a 'butterfly cocoon' shape inside the stomach. The cause is not known but it can usually be treated with surgery. It cannot be cured. It can only be detected once someone is opened up for surgery even though sufferers are born with the condition. Advertisement 'All my life I was misdiagnosed,' Jeanette told Daily Mail Australia. 'No one could give me a reason for my stomach pains until I had surgery. My poor intestines had wrapped up, strangulated inside. No wonder I was going through what I was going through.' Living with the excruciating pain for most of her life, Jeanette said every day was a constant battle. 'Every day was challenging for me. I was in some form of pain, it was getting to a point where I was severely drained, some days I would be in tears. 'I would go to the doctors and they would say the same thing over and over again, "your body is fine, there's nothing wrong with you". 'No one was listening to me, I was alone. I tried desperately to live a normal life but I couldn't.' For years, she underwent several colonoscopies, X-rays and tests but doctors struggled to figure out where the pain was coming from. 'I was also accused of having an eating disorder, pretty much my entire life. I was actually put into an eating disorder ward against my will, which in all honesty caused more damage to me,' she said. 'Doctors made a lot of mistakes, everything they were doing was a test. "We'll just try this" or "give this a go" - it was all I was hearing. 'It was hard when no one was listening to me. My heart would be shattered, what am I meant to do here, no one is listening here does it take me to nearly die for people to realise?' After being placed in a month-long coma due to surgery complications in 2017, Jeanette found out her family had been told she had 24 hours to live and to 'start planning a funeral' 'No one was listening to me, I was alone. I tried desperately to live a normal life but I couldn't,' she said (pictured in her 30s) After being placed in a month-long coma due to surgery complications in 2017, Jeanette found out her family had been told she had 24 hours to live and to 'start planning a funeral'. Much to their relief she miraculously woke up but she was in extreme pain and paralysed from all pf the surgery as her father recalled everything they'd been told. 'That was horrific because I just looked at my dad and tears started flowing down my face. It really freaked me out,' she said. 'I couldn't feel my body, I couldn't move side to side. I couldn't bear the pain, it was horrific, and my stomach still hurts... even to this day.' She was fitted with an ileostomy bag attached to an opening outside her abdomen to help relieve inflammation in her digestive system. 'I wasn't allowed to eat solid foods for a couple of months. My bowels were extremely thin so anything I ate leaked out inside my body,' Jeanette said. 'Every hour, I was only allowed to suck on 20mL of liquid - either jelly or ice cream,' she said. Within seven weeks, her weight dramatically plummeted to just 29 kilos. 'Every day, I felt like my body was eating itself,' she said. Coming from a nutrition background, Jeanette started eating a teaspoon of coconut oil to keep her fluids up. 'I started sucking on a teaspoon of coconut oil every hour and after the first week, I gained seven kilos. I thought "my body is loving this, it doesn't have to eat my own body anymore",' she said. 'Every day, I felt like my body was eating itself,' she said The actress, dancer and model led a very successful career until her world crumbled in 2017 'I've become anti-social, I lost my whole life, I lost a lot of business, I had goals and dreams, and they pretty much disappeared,' she said (pictured before her diagnosis) After spending 10 months in hospital, she was finally allowed home - but she still has a long way to go to as the condition is incurable. 'I've become anti-social, I lost my whole life, I lost a lot of business, I had goals and dreams, and they pretty much disappeared,' she said. 'Everything's just touch and go at the moment. I get around on crutches, I haven't left the house since I came back home to my parents in July last year. 'I'm petrified. To be honest, I don't know what's going to happen next. It's going to take me a long time to rebuild my life again. I don't have much support.' Since undergoing surgery, Jeanette said she has been struggling with the simple tasks, even eating has been challenging. 'When food goes into my stomach, it's not fine, it gives me certain reactions. I could be eating dinner but then feel sick five minutes later,' she said. 'My stomach is flat one minute, and then I'm bloated the next. It could take hours before it settles down again, I'd have to lie down or do exercises to alleviate the pain. 'Sometimes I feel embarrassed, I don't feel attractive like I used to. I had a six-pack once upon a time. I wanted to be pregnant but it's not going to be possible anymore. Maybe I'll adopt when my life gets back to normal.' By sharing her story, Jeanette - who hopes to become an inspirational speaker - wanted other women to draw hope from her experience. 'Never give up,' she said. 'I must say I am very grateful to be alive.' To follow Jeanette Clabassi's journey or make a donation, please visit her Facebook. It is one of the most well-documented divorces of the 20th century and yet, 23 years later we are still learning new things about the Prince of Wales and Lady Diana's infamous separation. A new Channel 5 documentary claims that the late Lady Di and Charles, 70, both cried together on the day they signed their divorce papers. Ingrid Seward, the editor of Royalty Magazine, reveals the information half-way through the documentary. 'Diana did tell me something quite interesting,' she says. 'She said that on the day of the divorce, she and Charles sat down together on the sofa and they both cried,' she goes on. 'It was this crazy separation, but by the time the divorce was finalised, they were on much better terms.' The Prince and Princess of Wales attend a welcome ceremony in Toronto at the beginning of their Canadian tour, October 1991, five years before their divorce. A new documentary sheds light on the couple's infamous separation Ingrid Seward, the editor of Royalty Magazine, said Lady Diana told her Charles and her both cried together on the day of their divorce This leads to believe Charles and Diana ended things on much better terms then previously thought. Prince Charles and Lady Diana's divorce was officially finalised on 24 August 1996, after a very public fall out. The first part of the new documentary, called The Royal Family at War, revisits the former couple's fairy-tale-to-nightmare love story. It claims that, as previously reported, Diana did not want to divorce Charles, but would have preferred a - temporary - separation. Diana and Charles' relationship started like a fairy-tale, which an engagement announcement and a beautiful wedding, but the relationship ended with a bitter divorce, or so we thought It claims that Lady Diana felt threatened early on by Camilla, now Duchess of Cornwall and Charles' new wife. In the wake of their engagement, Diana already suspected that something was going on between her groom-to-be and his former flame. 'At the time of the marriage, Charles was not seeing Camilla, but Diana was convinced he was,' said Seward, 'and then her worst fears came true.' The documentary recounts that Diana intercepted a package from Charles to Camilla, which contained a bracelet engraved with the initials 'F' and 'G,' for 'Fred' and Gladys', Charles and Camilla's nicknames for each other. Charles once made a joke it would have been 'far easier to have two wives' during public walkabouts 'Diana, of course, floods of tears, went to Charles and demanded to know what was going on. 'But Charles, so insensitive, he insisted on still giving it to Camilla.' 'Charles did not show huge emotional intelligence, if I'm brutally honest,' royal biographer Penny Junor said. The documentary mentions that Charles also wore cufflinks engraved two C's entwined that Camilla had given him on his honey moon with Diana. Lady Diana always suspected Charles had feelings for his former girlfriend Camilla and even confronted her at a birthday party in 1989, seven years before her divorce from Charles Charles with Prince William (center left) and Prince Harry (center right). Princess Diana told a friend she 'cried herself to sleep' the day Prince Harry was born Driven by jealousy, Diana actually confronted Camilla at a common friend's birthday party in 1989. The content of that conversation has been retold many times. Diana told Camilla she knew 'exactly what's going on,' and warned her: 'Don't treat me like an idiot.' When Camilla, to defend herself, responded: 'Youve got two beautiful children. What more would you want?' Diana simply replied: 'My husband.' The couple in 1987, two years before Diana confronted Camilla and a friend's birthday party in 1989 and told her not to 'treat [her] like an idiot' Former security officer for Diana Ken Wharfe says in the documentary that Charles and Diana did not exchange a word with each other on their way back to Buckingham Palace that night. The documentary also revisits the media craze around the fall out and how both Charles and Diana tried to control the narrative by talking to the media. Diana hit first with the Andrew Morton Book Diana: Her true Story. The explosive book recounted how sad her life was and her feelings about Camilla Parker Bowles. Charles and Diana during their tour of Germany in 1987. The two used the media to address the problems in their marriage 'She was absolutely miserable, and she felt she was like a prisoner of the Palace,' Morton says during the documentary. 'Nothing prepared me for the cascade of information and the controversy that the book aroused,' he adds. 'She was speaking like a prisoner in a cell, that just had a few minutes to get the story out.' Very early on in their relationship, Diana suspected that Charles still held a flame for Camilla and resented him The book was followed by the 1993 broadcast in the media of recorded phone calls between Charles and Camilla, which is called Camillagate or tampongate. In the tapes, Charles infamously joked about becoming a tampon. Charles addressed the controversy in an documentary Charles: the private man, the public role. 'It gave her a level of justification that had never been before.' After Diana answered with her own televised interview with Panorama, the Queen sent her an official letter advising for a divorce. The Royal Family at War airs on Channel 5 at 9pm on Saturday. The White Crow Cert: 12A, 2hrs 7mins Rating: Ralph Fiennes doesnt speak much Russian himself, apparently, but the country has clearly got under his skin. When hes not playing you-know-who in Harry Potter or M in James Bond, Fiennes likes nothing more than making a film either set in Russia or about a Russian preferably both. In 1999 he starred in Onegin, a stylish adaptation of Alexander Pushkins verse-novel that was very much a Fiennes family venture, with sister Martha directing and brother Magnus composing the music. Then, five years ago, he upped the stakes with Two Women, a Russian adaptation of the Turgenev play A Month In The Country, in which, despite his self-confessed linguistic shortcomings, he delivered his lines in near-perfect Russian. The White Crow is a quietly rather gorgeous biopic about Rudolph Nureyev, the great Russian ballet dancer. Oleg Ivenko lights up the whole film as the central character (above) Now hes at it again, directing and playing a major supporting role again in Russian in The White Crow, a quietly rather gorgeous biopic about Rudolph Nureyev, the great Russian ballet dancer who, like his predecessor Vaslav Nijinsky, was destined to become so famous that he could be referred to the world over simply by his surname. But it was not always like that, and David Hares cleverly constructed screenplay restlessly shifting backwards and forwards in time tells Nureyevs story from his romantic-sounding but no doubt very uncomfortable (at least for his mother) birth on board the Trans-Siberian express in 1938 to the dramatic key turning point in his life his defection to the West in Paris in 1961. Lighting up the whole thing is the central performance of Oleg Ivenko, the young Russian dancer who makes his film-acting debut here as Nureyev and brings a reality not just to the dance scenes, as you might expect, but to Nureyevs complex, charismatic but often difficult character too. As well as directing, Ralph Fiennes (above) plays Nureyev's teacher and mentor, giving a masterclass in how an actor can still capture our attention by apparently doing very little White crow is a Russian nickname used to tease those who are unusual, extraordinary, not like others, and Nureyev was certainly that. He was petulant, furiously driven, egocentric and, in an attempt to make up for the shortcomings of his impoverished childhood, as desperate for knowledge as he was for success. For an actor with so little experience, the photogenic Ivenko does a wonderful job of capturing Nureyevs many facets (he was a man capable of great charm too), and his captivating performance is a tribute to Fienness talents as a director. Not only did he find the right actor, hes drawn a great performance from him. Fienness own performance, as Nureyevs teacher and mentor at the Kirov Ballet, is a quieter, more austere affair, and something of a masterclass in how an actor can still capture our attention by apparently doing very little. Despite his clear preference for understatement, Fiennes delivers the big moments with undeniable skill; the climactic stand-off at Orly airport is worthy of the best Cold War thriller As a director, Fienness approach to language impresses too. When scenes take place in Russia, the dialogue, quite rightly, is in subtitled Russian. When the action switches to France, its certainly plausible that Nureyev and his new French friends conversed in imperfect English. Less convincing but enviable is the access that Fiennes secured to two of the worlds greatest art museums. Those who have jostled for a two-second glimpse of the Mona Lisa will gaze in awe as Nureyev surveys Theodore Gericaults The Raft Of The Medusa in the Louvre, and watch in disbelief as he saunters through the deserted courtyards of the Hermitage. Wed all be art buffs if it was that easy. If some of the story feels familiar, thats partly because a decent documentary covered the same ground last year, and partly because both Pawel Pawlikowskis Cold War and, more improbably, Luca Guadagninos remake of Suspiria have recently mixed Iron Curtain politics with the velvet curtain of the opera house too. Nureyev was only 23 when he defected young enough perhaps for his no doubt well concealed sexual preference (homosexuality was still illegal in the UK, let alone the Soviet Union) to appear more fluid than it would soon become when he became the long-term partner of Danish dancer Erik Bruhn. Still, his passionate affair with his mentors attractive wife (Chulpan Khamatova) does come as something of a surprise. Despite his clear preference for understatement, Fiennes delivers the big moments with undeniable skill. Nureyevs first standing ovation in Paris is real hairs-on-the-back-of-the-neck stuff, while the climactic stand-off at Orly airport, where Nureyev is forced to choose between East or West, is worthy of the best Cold War thriller. Highly recommended. ALSO OUT THIS WEEK Us (15) Rating: Jordan Peele won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay with his first film, Get Out, and it will be interesting to see how he gets on with his follow-up, Us. For while its undoubtedly high time we saw more black leading characters in mainstream horror films and Lupita Nyongo makes a good kick-ass mum here I remain unconvinced that hes really reinventing the wheel. Oscar-winning Jordan Peele returns with Us starring Lupita Nyongo (above with Evan Alex and Shahadi Wright Joseph) as a mum who encounters an ominous family in her driveway In Us, the Wilson family have retired to their holiday home near Santa Cruz for a well earned break. Then, late one night, their small son announces Theres a family in the driveway and were off. The family are dressed in red boiler suits, armed with scissors and definitely do not come in peace. Suddenly, the much-referenced Bible passage Jeremiah 11:11 Therefore thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will bring evil upon them which they shall not be able to escape begins to make sense. Sorry Angel (15) Rating: Its 1993 and Jacques Tondelli (Pierre Deladonchamps) is a gay man living on what is almost certainly borrowed time. But while friends and former lovers succumb to the scourge that was Aids, Jacques, a playwright, lives on. Does he have time for one last love affair with a much younger man? Im afraid, amid all the cigarette smoke and moody introspection, most of us will run out of patience before we find out. Onima 1-3 Avery Row, London W1 Rating: I was expecting the worst, steeling myself for a gold-clad cacophony of nipped, tucked Hermes-toting excess. After all, Onima promises five dimensions of pleasure, as if it were some futuristic marital aid, rather than a small Greek restaurant in the heart of Mayfair. A small Greek restaurant with a philosophy, no less We exist for the citys most discerning pleasure-seekers, purrs the website, everything we do is designed to play with all five senses. And there was me looking for lunch. The interior of Onima. The place isnt bad looking, in a slick, expensive, marble-and-mirrors Mayfair way So Im worried. Doubly so, because this is no usual review, rather a lunch with Fiona and Ross Wilson, who very generously bought Giles Coren (of The Times) and me at an auction in aid of the brilliant Felix Project. I know plenty of people who would pay NOT to spend a couple of hours in our company, but the Wilsons put charity over pleasure. Anyway, I arrive first, and am looked up and down like a piece of just-off meat. It takes me a while to convince them that I have a booking, and Im led, at arms length, to a wobbly table in a near-empty room. The place isnt bad looking, in a slick, expensive, marble-and-mirrors Mayfair way. French chanteurs croon over an immaculate stereo, while everything gleams and shines and glitters. Especially the teeth of the hunky, artfully be-stubbled fella next door, who seems to be midway through a photoshoot with a pair of bored-looking models. It turns out to be the owner, Alexandros Andrianopoulos, who was big on Mykonos. And wanted to bring a slice of the island vibe to London. The menu is Crazee Euro to its core, the sort of jet-set, fat-watch-wearing pan-global hotchpotch found from Moscow to Marbella, studded with truffles and wagyu, Josper-grilled lobsters and caviar. Yet in among the Champagne-spraying bling are dishes from Italy, Greece and Japan. Our waiter insists on explaining the menu, despite our protestations. But the sommelier knows his stuff, and the floor staff are charming enough. As for the food Damn, its silly, bum-clenchingly expensive. 130 tomahawk steak. 90 seabass for two. A burger for 32. For a certain crowd, food only tastes good when the bill reaches four figures. Reassuringly expensive and all that. But the cooking is really rather good. Often exceptional. Crisp discs of delicately battered aubergine and courgettes are piled one on top of the other and come with a tart, dill-spiked tzatziki dip. Sicilian red prawns, sweet and blissfully rich, come raw with olive oil and lemon. They remind me of Catania market. In everything but the 36 price. Tempura prawns (a heady 24), so often so turgid, are clad in the most gossamer-light of batters. A small Greek restaurant with a philosophy, no less We exist for the citys most discerning pleasure-seekers, purrs the website, everything we do is designed to play with all five senses. And there was me looking for lunch Saganaki sees flawless fried cheese with lemon and herbs and a sharp lemon puree. As good as I once ate in Corfu. And Melbourne. But at 14, not exactly given away. Just like the spanakopita, the spinach and cheese flavours as big and bold as the crisp filo pastry is dainty. This is modern Greek food at its very best. Main courses are pretty impressive too. A sticky, succulent poussin marinated in miso; roast rack of lamb with caponata, the beast cooked pink, the caponata blessed with pure agrodolce allure. Guazetto, a sort of sloppy, soupy fish stew, has a throaty submarine depth, and lots of silken mullet and prawns, while rabbit is a touch dull, despite all those olives and capers. A bowl of tonnarelli cacio e pepe pasta, though, is exceptional. Unforgettable. Although at 19, its peasant food at oligarch prices. Onima could have been a Bagatelle, but its far superior to that. And yes, this is Mayfair. They know their crowd. Which is not really us. Still, it will keep the private-jet crew happy, their wives and mistresses too. Head chef Carmelo Carnevale sure can cook. Its just those prices I found difficult to digest. About 80 per head The Bay At Nice Menier Chocolate Factory, London Until May 4, 1hr 15mins Rating: Heres a David Hare play thats not remotely annoying, unlike most David Hare plays. It has been unseen since it was first staged in 1986, to admiring but tepid reviews. Here it proves tough, witty, brainy and with a bravura part for an older actress to be thoroughly grumpy in. Originally it was Irene Worth. Now its Penelope Wilton. If you thought she was unlikeable as Mrs Crawley in Downton Abbey, in this shes truly fearsome, as Valentina Nrovka, a haughty Russian mum whose wintry smile could blast-freeze a pork chop. This David Hare play proves tough, witty, brainy and with a bravura part for an older actress to be thoroughly grumpy in. Originally it was Irene Worth. Now its Penelope Wilton The action is set in a museum in Leningrad in 1956. Stalin is three years dead. Valentina has been invited in to authenticate an unsigned Matisse painting of the plays title. She knew him as his young pupil and was, possibly, his lover, among many others. She left bohemian Paris and returned to the Soviet Union pregnant, where she has since made a religion out of not complaining. We all make our choices. The museum encounter is largely with her half-estranged daughter Sophia, who has come in need of money and moral support in her decision to dump her husband for a much older man from the sanitation department! The action is set in a museum in Leningrad in 1956, in an encounter between Wilton's Valentina and her half-estranged daughter (rising star Ophelia Lovibond, above with David Rintoul) Cue lots of brittle exchanges, put-downs and brutal frankness. Valentina harangues her daughter for believing divorce will solve her problems and for prattling about rights. This 33-year-old play has morphed into a short but bracing assault on our own cultures addiction to the sort of inane, self-empowerment cobblers spouted by Meghan and Harry. But there was a let-down on opening night. Penelope Wilton had persistent trouble with her lines. It happens to the best. Richard Eyre directs with a complete sense of what the play is about and the entire cast impresses: Wilton is truly fearsome and Martin Hutson (above) brilliant as the assistant-curator She was well protected by rising star Ophelia Lovibond as Sophia, by the brilliant Martin Hutson as the awkward assistant-curator, and by David Rintoul as the daughters geriatric new love a delightful portrait of male futility straight out of the pages of Chekhov. Richard Eyre directs with a complete sense of what the plays about. The real pay-off comes in the second half, when the writing really takes flight. Wilton was totally on top of Valentinas tremendous, intimate speech about Matisses method and his genius. You are transported out of the chilly Soviet museum and into warm, life-affirming, Mediterranean sunshine. What could be lovelier? Admissions 1hr 40mins Trafalgar Studios, London Until May 25, touring until June 22 Rating: Entitled white liberals are in the cross-hairs of this provocative American comedy by Joshua Harmon. Alex Kingston plays Sherri, the utterly anti-racist head of admissions at an exclusive New Hampshire college, desperate to increase the black intake of the school where her husband (Andrew Woodall) is head. She spews a lot of honeyed pieties about diversity until her gifted son fails to get into Yale, unlike his non-white friend. Alex Kingston (above with Margot Leicester) plays an the head of admissions at an exclusive college desperate to increase the black intake in this provocative American comedy The writing takes a flame-thrower to the race-obsessed, hypocritical white establishment (the sort that over here runs British theatre) in a Right-wing rant from the rejected kid well played by Ben Edelman. But the evening then fizzles out when Harmons play tries to have the cake its already eaten. And how weird to see a comedy thats all about race relations with no black characters in it. admissionsplay.com The Life I Lead 1hr 50mins Park Theatre, London Until Saturday, touring until April 7 Rating: Old-school British actor David Tomlinson returned to our thoughts with the release of Mary Poppins Returns last year. His most famous role was, of course, in the original 1964 film as Mr Banks, the stiff-upper-lip (with moustache) father who disapproves of the carpet- bag-toting flying nanny and her colourful ways with his two litle mites. The title of this entertaining one-man play by James Kettle, starring Miles Jupp of Rev fame, is that of one of Tomlinsons songs in the movie, in which he extols the virtues of his well-ordered family life. As we know, the title song is ironic as Julie Andrewss iconic governess runs magical rings around the strictly run household. In this one-man play about Mary Poppins actor David Tomlinson, Miles Jupp delivers the many witty anecdotes with, unsurprisingly for a comic, spot-on timing and a winning charm David Tomlinsons own life was also more disordered beneath the calm, genial persona he exuded as an actor, and not without considerable personal trauma. Not least his relationship with his father, a cantankerous and distant man obsessed with Napoleon, who Tomlinson discovered later in life was living a double life with another family and sired seven children and that his mother knew all along. As a father himself, though, Tomlinson coped lovingly with a son, one of the first British children to be diagnosed as autistic. Thats not all. His first marriage to an American widow ended after a few months when she jumped from a New York building with her two children. Thankfully he was with his second wife for 47 years. Credit is due to writer James Kettles adroit handling of the sadder material, which is never mawkish, and is subtly blended with a comic account of Tomlinsons years as a jobbing actor All credit to Kettles adroit handling of this sadder material, which is never mawkish, and is subtly blended like a spoonful of sugar with a comic account of Tomlinsons years as a jobbing actor in pretty minor plays and films. After laughter at one particularly silly, outre plot, Jupp remarks beadily: Doesnt sound like much. But Graham Greene saw it twice. Noel Coward described him as looking like a very old baby, and on Mary Poppins he became friends with Walt Disney, leading to roles in Bedknobs And Broomsticks and The Love Bug. But Tomlinson retired gracefully before the offers dried up, even pretending to be his own American agent on the phone to fob off enquirers. As the man himself, Jupp presents us with a thoroughly decent man who never took anything too seriously and delivers the many witty anecdotes with, unsurprisingly for a comic, spot-on timing and a winning charm that the affable Tomlinson himself would have admired. Mark Cook Stones In His Pockets Touring until August 5 1hr 45mins Rating: A whopping hit almost 20 years ago, Marie Joness tragicomedy about a couple of luckless, aimless Irish men who become Hollywood film extras relies on very fleet performances. Two actors play not only Jake and Charlie but also every other part. Lindsay Posner's production is never sufficiently comic, or indeed tragic. Owen Sharpe is hugely energetic but its too full-on while Kevin Trainor is at least more subtle in his shading Lindsay Posners production, however, never seems sufficiently comic, or indeed tragic, and the rapid transitions between roles are often clunky rather than crisp. Theres naturally an element of caricature in taking on so many characters. As Jake, Owen Sharpe gives a hugely energetic performance, but its so full-on it smothers any emotional truth. Kevin Trainor possesses cheeky charm, but is more subtle in his shading. Even so, the plays darker messages about lack of opportunity, failed dreams and male loneliness rarely hit home. Holly Williams Sorolla: Spanish Master Of Light Sainsbury Wing, The National Gallery Until July 7 Rating: The first time Spanish painter Joaquin Sorolla y Bastida attempted to wow London he put on his own exhibition at the Grafton Galleries in 1908 and was announced as the worlds greatest living painter. Edwardian London sniffed at such presumption. Now, 96 years after his death, Sorolla gets a major National Gallery retrospective that shows 60 works over seven rooms. Among the best are works such as Young Fisherman, Valencia, 1904, which shows his mastery of the Mediterranean sun on the shoreline at El Cabanyal. A suburb that survives, in large part, as Sorolla would have known it. A brooding self-portrait at the start of this show is both a calling card and indicator of how seriously Sorolla regarded his own talent. He placed himself in the lineage of Velazquez and Goya and drew attention to it. Spanish painter Sorolla is the subject of a major National Gallery retrospective with 60 works on display. Among the best are works such as Young Fisherman, Valencia, 1904 (above) In Maria With Mantilla, 1910, his daughter becomes Goyas Duchess Of Alba, and My Children, 1904 an almost supernaturally intense group portrait of his son and two daughters directly quotes Velazquezs Las Meninas. Sorolla even painted his wife Clotilde as the Rokeby Venus. Unlike his countrymen Velazquez, Goya and Picasso, Sorolla wasnt a painter of ideas, which might be why British critics, enamoured by the experiments of the impressionists and post-impressionists, resisted his charms. Sorolla responded to surface, finding his depth in whatever circumstance put in front of him. Often this is delightful. Running Along The Beach, 1908, seeks to do nothing more than capture the sheer joy of being a child. Boys On The Beach, 1909, is a painting of concentrated happiness that seems effortlessly to overcome the challenge of capturing light and laughter reflected in wet sand. He frames paintings as if he were behind a camera, and theres a dazzling immediacy to Sewing The Sail, 1896, a kaleidoscopic interplay of light and shade shown for the first time in Britain Sorolla skirts close to sentimentality but never quite submits, and he was technically innovative, having trained as a photographers assistant. He frames paintings as if he were behind a camera, and theres a dazzling immediacy to Sewing The Sail, 1896, a kaleidoscopic interplay of light and shade shown here for the first time in Britain. In The Return From Fishing, 1894, a boat is being dragged on to the beach by oxen, but the real drama is in the sunlight that floods the horizon and fills the sails. Sad Inheritance, 1899, which won the Grand Prix at the Paris Exposition in 1900 and made Sorolla known internationally, summons up darkness instead. The sea is brooding, as the disabled inmates of an institution for abandoned boys are taken to bathe. He placed himself in the lineage of Velazquez and Goya and drew attention to it even painting his wife Clotilde as the Rokeby Venus in Female Nude from 1902 (above) This is a hard painting to look at. It usually hangs upstairs in the Coleccion Fundacion Bancaja in Valencia, a remarkable place with so many works by Picasso that Sorollas masterpiece takes a back seat; here it emerges in all its power as a painting that attacked hypocrisy and complacency. Turn-of-the-century Spain was riven by strife and injustice and Sorolla, too ambitious to be a true radical but nonetheless appalled, had a genius for telling detail. In Another Marguerite, 1892, the two Guardia officers who watch over a young woman accused of killing her child seem just as sad as she is. The chain around her wrist signals her likely fate should she escape the death penalty. Sad Inheritance, 1899, won the Grand Prix in 1900 and made Sorolla known internationally. His narrative paintings caused a sensation, but they took a psychological toll upon the artist The narrative paintings caused a sensation, especially in the US, but they took a psychological toll upon Sorolla and he moved away from Spains social problems. Seven years after painting Sad Inheritance he had a mansion in Madrid, today the utterly captivating Sorolla Museum, and was holidaying at Biarritz. He lived an apparently enchanted bourgeois life, painting his wife and daughters in glowing white dresses but, restless as ever, he was reaching towards abstraction. The Matisse-like The Siesta, 1911, condenses his wife, daughters and a cousin into an amalgam of intense greens and whites, suggesting he would not have floundered in the new world of representation that was coming. Sorollas life ended early, aged 60, and it ended as badly as it can for an artist. After a stroke in 1920 he spent three years in Madrid, unable to paint, before he died. Its too late to say sorry but we should welcome Sorollas second chance in London this show proves he deserves it. Buy a brand new car and you are guaranteed to lose money, buy an older one at the bottom of its depreciation curve and while you may find yourself forking out for repairs you wont lose thousands in value. That can spell interesting motoring that costs you less - and may even pay for itself. This is the theory behind our Cash Cars series and in this column we look at the Jaguar XJR. Jaguars supercharged luxe-express might not be the unreliable money-pit you think it is, reckons Tony Middlehurst, and a smasher could be yours from about 6,000. Supercar performance, limousine luxury and superb handling, Jaguar's XJR won rave reviews and has a cult following, surely that spells future classic? As some of you may know, Uncle Bob is our in-house expert at picking out motorings slow depreciators. If you met him in the street (or perhaps more accurately on the street, outside a pub) and you had to guess what car he drove, you might very well plump for the Jaguar XJ. That would be a very good guess. Bob is both a big fan and a serial owner of old-school Jag saloons, and of the XJR in particular. In his view, nothing beats them for lowering the heartrate when beating a hasty retreat from angry bookmakers. And right now, in terms of affordable performance and luxury, not much else beats a 400bhp XJR starting at about 6,000 for value. What is the the XJRs power secret? Supercharging. In the last forty years of so, turbocharging has morphed from a scary performance add-on into an everyday way of adding power to titchy engines. Supercharging, in Bobs non-PC view, is a far more manly means of achieving big power. For him, the whine of a steel compressor mechanically forcing air into a large-capacity engine is one of lifes great noises, in either classic aviation or modern motoring. You can still get supercharged engines in the current X351-bodyshape XJ, but as far as Bob is concerned the association of this car with such people as, for example, the Prime Minister has killed off any appeal they may or may not have had. If you really wanted to unleash your inner Clarkson, you could take your XJR to the track and spend the day doing this - then waft home No, for Bob there are only two real XJRs: the AJ16 6-cylinder 326bhp X300 of 1994, and the V8 models that followed it from 1997. First, there was the 370bhp 4.0-litre V8 X308. Then, in 2003, the X308 became the X350 by throwing off its heavy old steel coat in exchange for a swish aluminium number. The supercharged 4.0 V8 grew to a 4.2 with 400bhp, the equipment-stuffed walnut burl and leather cabin reached new heights of opulence, and the electronically controlled air suspension was so clever it would quietly turn itself on every 24 hours to level the car up. The final combination made for a wonderfully luxurious car in the finest British tradition that could also do the 0-60mph dash in five seconds dead and cruise serenely at a computer-restricted top whack of 155mph along an autobahn, if you can find and get to one. Earlier steel-sprung XJs rode even more sumptuously than the later ones, but even though the marketing-driven imperative of handling had added an edge of hardness to the X350 and to the bodykitted X358 of 2007 (the one with the vertical silver trim fillets on the trailing edges of the front wings), the XJR experience was never less than comfortable. Not to mention very bloody fast. Older Jaguars have something of a reputation for being unreliable, that's undeserved reckons our Cash Cars columnist Tony Middlehurst Now, there is some negative public perception about XJs. Theyre unreliable, and everybody knows it. That sort of perception. But when were talking about the later XJs, thats an unfair call. Granted, there was a time when you probably wouldn't have bet your dogs kennel, let alone your house, on an XJs electrics. But by the time the X350 and X358s were rolling off the line, everything had changed. In 2009, Jaguar came top of the luxury brands in the tough JD Power ownership satisfaction survey. Never buy into the myth that German brands have some sort of unique free pass when it comes to reliability. It simply isnt true. Anyway, back to the point: the 2003-on X350s and X358s were the last proper XJRs to feature forced induction. They cost 58,500 in 2003, but prices for them now start at a sorely tempting 5,000 or even less, while with a bit of haggling just over 6,000 should get you a good one, so theyre the XJRs were going to look at here. Besides, looking at them is a whole lot better than looking at Bob. Even he would admit that. The interior of an XJR is a very pleasant place to pass a long journey, as driver or passenger The Cash Cars verdict on the XJR It may be that, in the not too distant future when were all enjoying the effortless thrust of 400bhp electric cars, some of us will look back on the supercharged V8 XJR and wonder why we ever thought it was a good idea to rely on complicated, petrol-guzzling, hydrocarbon-belching engines to deliver the exact same experience. Those of us with a more romantic outlook on life are more likely to look back and regret that we never tried an XJR while we could and at a time when they were absurdly cheap. That time is now. Jaguar XJR: Bobs three to think on Prices for the 2003 to 2007 X350 XJR run from 5,000 for a well-used one with 120,000+ miles to 13,000 for a low-miler with hardly any owners and all the documentation you can eat. Good examples of the visually refreshed 2007 to 2009 X358 will cost you between 9,000 for a privately-owned car with a six-figure mileage to 18,000 for the top billy specimens. Either model will deliver storming performance, reasonable cruising economy and wonderful road presence. Here are three tasty choices that Uncle Bob has identified. Get in quick before he nabs one (or all) of them. This 85,000 mile XJR has had just two owners and seems well looked after at 8,500 2003, Jaguar XJR (X350), 8,500 An 85,000-miler in Eastbourne Light Gold sorry, Topaz this lovely XJR won't come with its private plate which an Aston Martin owner might pay good money for, but with just two owners, a clean MOT pass in November and always-garaged no expense spared maintenance (which presumably means a full service history), it looks practically new inside and out and should be a solid bet for a few years worth of deluxe motoring. A full service history and long-term owner bodes well for this 10,995 2008 XJR 2008, Jaguar XJR (X358), 10,995 A beautiful example of the facelifted/bodykitted X358 in pearl grey metallic with ivory leather, this XJR failed its MOT in February on the classic corroded brake pipe problem that affects so many cars, not just XJRs and not just Jaguars. That was fixed for the retest that was done early in March 2019, and that had no advisories. Owner by the same person since (nearly) new, it comes with a full service history. It's done 112,000 miles. Smashing. A fully-loaded Super V8 with 118,000, a few cosmetic 'improvements' and extra points for being photographed next to a plane, yours for 6,450 2003, Jaguar Super V8 (X350), 6,450 The Super V8 is a great outside-the-box stealth option. A 70,000 car new, it had the same 400bhp output as the XJR but offered even more cabin luxury, especially for rear passengers who had lots of buttons to play with. From 2004 you could get a long-wheelbase Super V8, but the first 2003 models like this one were all regular wheelbase, making them a tidier drive on twisty roads and easier to park in multi-storeys. Basically, its an even posher XJR. It only has a partial service history, but its for the last five years rather than the first five. Uncle Bob calls that the best kind of partial service history. Jaguar XJR: The Good Stuff As someone else might say, POWERRRR. If 400bhp from the 2003-on XJRs isnt enough, though heaven knows why it shouldn't be on todays clogged roads, 450bhp-plus is quickly available via a remap, and a rampant 650bhp is possible if youre willing and financially able to upgrade the supercharger to a twin-screw version. But an XJR isnt just about unlikely speed in a delicately sculpted body. Its also about arent-I-lucky comfort, refinement and luxury. The Super V8 topped the XJR on equipment, but that was the thick end of 70,000 new. Really, when you set down all the requirements for a car of this type, the XJR doesnt just tick every box, it double-taps every box, wraps them in a body bag and buries them seventeen miles out of town. The last of the old-style XJs, the X350 and X358 facelift cars still had a clear styling link to their relatives from years gone by Weve already mentioned the X350 XJRs aluminium bodywork. Interestingly, if youre boring, Jaguar used things called self-piercing rivets to stitch it all together. The only trouble with that was the rivets were made of steel. Add moisture to the mix and the possibility exists of the sort of reaction you wouldnt have been hoping for when you bought your Jaguar, ie corrosion. Not rust, because as we all remember from our O-level Physics, aluminium doesnt rust. Unlike proper British rust, aluminium corrosion doesnt spread like wildfire through your car. Plus, if an X350 isnt showing signs of corrosion now, it has every chance of remaining so for the foreseeable future, all of which is why were including this under the Good Stuff heading. But do keep an eye on the edges of panels like wheelarches, doors, bootlids, and sunroofs, and on the bits that are not made of aluminium, like the subframes, which are annoyingly made of steel. You may notice a warning light coming up to tell you that your air suspension has failed. Thats not Good Stuff, surely? Well, its not necessarily Not So Good Stuff either, because warning lights dont always tell the truth. In this case it may not mean that you have to book the car in for a ruinously expensive replacement of the airbags and pump, as a naughty Jaguar dealer might once have told you. It may simply be that the compressor hasn't managed to inflate the bags in the two minutes allowed by the cars suspension ECU. That can happen on a cold day or if the car has been left standing for a while. Cash Cars Cars lose money. As a general rule thats true, with depreciation eating up thousands of pounds of the price you paid. However, it doesnt have to be the case. Savvy buyers can pick up cars that will not only retain their value, but could be sold for more down the line. In our new Cash Cars series we look for those that fit the bill, read more: Honda S2000: Sportscar heaven Audi A8: Luxury at a bargain price Mercedes SL: R129 about to shine Weve all had our sluggish morning moments. It could be that all you need is a new air pump diaphragm, which is somewhat cheaper than a whole new suspension setup. Before 2012, if your airbags did fail, you were definitely in for a massive bill from your Jaguar dealer, but in that year Bilstein made the original B4 Airmatic suspension modules (their name for a gas shock absorber) commercially available to owners. Its a lot cheaper, but still steep at a few pence under 750 a corner. If youre happy with a recon unit you can cut that cost by around 50 per cent. Thats one of the biggest fears of XJR ownership spiked. Another would be the behaviour of the six-speed automatic transmission. Even when fit, it did garner a reputation for jerkiness off the line that was unbecoming of a car of this nature. The good news is that plugging the gearbox ECU into an appropriate laptop and giving it whats known as a reflash in laymans terms, overwriting the memory of a computer chip to make it do something different will sort that out. None of the engine-related issues that affected the earlier X308 V8s like timing chain tensioners, water pumps, throttle bodies and Nikasil bore erosion should worry you on the X350s. Finally, economy. What? Yes, you heard right, economy. Trundle along at the UKs commonly chosen (but remember over the limit) cruising speed of 80mph and you can expect to see 30mpg. Not bad, eh. The aluminium bodied Jaguar XJs, such as this one, have a good reputation but some prefer the more slimline look of earlier cars Jaguar XJR: The Not So Good Stuff The limitations of the classic XJ bodystyle will become evident when your family is comfortably ensconced in the car and you lift the boot lid to insert their luggage. Or carrier bags, as their luggage will therafter be called. Its not so much that the boot is small as the fact that its awkwardly shaped for larger items, like Grannys Zimmer frame or your Canyon bike. At the other end of the XJR we have the bonnet. Beneath that, unless you find yourself buying from one of Uncle Bobs seedier associates, you should find the magnificent V8 engine. If you see any wetness there, that could mean either that a pipe has popped off the coolant expansion tank or that an under-charger coolant pipe is leaking. A new one of those costs buttons, but the labour required to remove the supercharger hardware getting in the way of it unfortunately does not. The auto transmission was rather vaingloriously set up as a sealed for life proposition, indicating that no maintenance would ever be required, but as is the way of these things it all turned out to be not so much blue sky thinking as pie in the sky thinking. In Jaguars defence, they were not the only peddler of these snake-oil claims. You do need to change the transmission fluid, and methods have been devised to do that. If theres nothing on the paperwork to suggest it hasnt been renewed in the last 50,000 miles, youd be well advised to rectify matters. One transmission foible that should by now have been sorted by a recall on all X350s was the tendency of early cars to suddenly switch into reverse while motoring smartly along in a forwards fashion. That would test the glue on your toupee. Make sure the battery is always in good condition, as a weak one can impact the car in many strange and undesirable ways. Go for the older XJR and you'll find what looks like a more dated interior with no sat nav etc, but skipping a sat nav that will feel out of date by now anyway is no big deal Inside, the rapid evolution of infotainment technology means that the XJs satnav now looks about as modern as a Pathe News feature. Thats not the XJs fault: its the fault of manufacturers ramming satnavs into their dashes as a 2,000 extra or, as here, as a partial justification for high new-car pricing, rather than allowing owners to fit their own much cheaper satnavs from the wider market. But that olde-worlde satnav is also a metaphor for the XJs biggest problem. Its looks. Bob has zero difficulty with them, and hasn't since the first XJ glided smoothly onto our roads in 1968. For others, however, the XJ has always looked old. Unsurprising really, because that first 1960s XJ deliberately incorporated classic Jaguar styling notes from earlier still. One mans graceful is another mans obsolete. Between the front and back of the XJR we have that lovely aluminium body. Its always best to try and avoid accidents, obviously, but thats especially true of the X350. Not because its unsafe, far from it, but from a financial perspective even a little bump will be expensive to put right as bodywork repairs for aluminium demand different and pricier techniques. Cosmetic paint bubbling can occur as a result of either the steel rivets thing or, if you enjoy conspiracy theories, too-thin lacquer from the factory. Maladies that affect many other cars, like fragile doorhandles, reluctant windows, sticking mirrors and soggy parking sensors, also affect X350s. Under the body there should be some suspension components. Weve talked about this in the Good Stuff bit, but we do have to warn you that it can still go wrong, both in the hardware and the software. Aluminium or not, this is still a heavyish car at a piglet short of 1,800kg, so suspension parts will need monitoring and replacing when you start hearing funny noises. The air suspension compressor is not averse to giving up the ghost either. Recon units are about 200, or you can now get DIY rebuild kits for 35. Then there is potential failure of the Body Processing Module, a pewter-hued box of electronics that (unsurprisingly) costs several hundred quid to buy new. However, many are available via the gentlemen of the scrapping trade for as little as 10. You need to make sure its the right one for your car, but still theres no guarantee that it will be any better than the one youve already got unless you pay three figures for a tested one. They don't make them like that anymore: Classic Jaguar looks combined with a legendary engine are sure to stand the price of XJRs in good stead in years to come If youre looking at 2006-registered cars, make sure theyve had the factory recall done on leaky brake pipes, because if theres one thing you dont want on a 400bhp car its non-functioning brakes. If youre looking at any XJR, look at the back brake pads as they dissolve pretty smartly. While you're down there, have a look at the suspension wishbone bushes. Unless youre a mechanic, and even if you are a mechanic, youre unlikely to be able to tell anything by doing that, because a knackered bush doesnt look that different to a good one. Just know that theyll probably need replacing if theres no mention on the service history of them having been renewed for a few years, and/or if youre hearing clonking. For goodness sake make sure that the electronic parking brake works. Anyone who has been constantly cursed with this on a Land Rover Discovery 3 will know what a pain EPBs can be. In Bobs view this is a ridiculous idea that should never have seen the light of day. As noted earlier, dont run off with the idea that German cars in this class are somehow vastly superior on the reliability front. Reputable surveys have shown that the contemporary Mercedes S-Class suffered from more expensive faults than the XJ. Another US tax year may have come to a close, but for Americans living in the UK this means it is time to put things in order for 5 April. This is Money has asked financial experts at London & Capital to give US expats living in the UK the basics of what they need to know before the UK tax year ends. There are many key differences between UK and US tax regimes you will need to be aware of Make use of Isa and pension allowances Robert Paul, partner, US Team at London & Capital, replies: The first thing to do is take care of what many see as basic UK tax planning contributing to Individual Savings Accounts and pensions. Although this may seem obvious, not everyone remembers to use these allowances each year. There is no reason why Americans living in the UK cant contribute to a pension, but it is important to select the right pension vehicle and be aware of how personal and employer contributions are taxed from a US perspective, and how to use any foreign tax credits on your income. One benefit is that for anyone who hasnt used the full annual allowance in a particular tax year it is possible to carry forward unused contributions from the previous three tax years. By carrying forward unused pension contributions, it is possible to reduce a tax liability. The other point is that US tax authorities view Isas as normal investment accounts and not tax-free vehicles like they are in the UK. Robert Paul, partner at London & Capital There is still some benefit to using them, but the assets held within them need to be compliant from a US perspective and they should be managed with a view to eventually paying capital gains tax to the IRS. Offset investment gains and losses Americans who are resident in the UK pay tax to HMRC on all their worldwide income and gains regardless of location. This means all investment accounts need to be considered, whether held in the US or any other jurisdiction. Therefore, it is important to keep track of any assets that were bought and sold during the year and then view any gains or losses from a sterling perspective. Complicating matters is that efforts to reduce a tax liability in one jurisdiction could lead to an unwanted tax bill in the other. A UK investment portfolio wont be managed to minimise dollar-based gains and losses at US tax year end, and this can incur capital gains taxes in a clients US tax return. The same is of course true in reverse for a US investment manager. Gifting and charitable donations When looking to gift assets to the next generation or make charitable donations, there are several pitfalls to avoid. The US has a more generous regime than the UK when it comes to gifting assets to family or friends, so any gifts need to be factored into a UK wealth plan or they need to be dual-compliant. US authorities view Isas as normal investment accounts and not tax-free vehicles like the UK US citizens have an $11,180,000 lifetime gift and estate tax allowance and can give up to $15,000 to any individuals they want each year. They can also give $152,000 to a non-American spouse each year without it forming part of their $11.18million. These allowances are not recognised in the UK, and UK inheritance tax will be due if they die within seven years of the gift date. Similarly, when making charitable donations, tax breaks are only earned on both sides of the Atlantic if donations are made into dual-qualifying charities in other words, those that are registered charities in both the US and UK. Many US charities, including many college endowments, are not recognised as charities in the UK and cannot be used to reduce a tax bill with HMRC, and this can catch people out. The world's big gold mining firms have already had a busy year. Things kicked off with a bang when, on 2019's first day of trading, Barrick Gold completed its 4.6billion takeover of FTSE 100-listed rival Randgold Resources, capping off one of the industry's biggest ever mergers. Randgold shares delisted in London on the same day leaving small British investors without a blue-chip gold miner to buy into and no other clear successor for retail portfolios. Gold equities, according to Duncan MacInnes of investment manager Ruffer, are 'cheap' and 'unloved'. But rising gold prices and better cost controls are making the sector more appealing again. So in the absence of Randgold from the LSE, where should shareholders turn now? There is, unfortunately, little solace to be had from higher-profile mid-cap gold miners. Finncap's deputy head of corporate finance for mining, Christopher Raggett, said: 'There is simply no mid-tier producer in whom London investors can confidently put their money.' Egypt-focused miner Centamin expects gold output to increase by between 4 per cent and 10 per cent this year but its recent track record is far from unblemished. The company lowered its gold production guidance three times in 2018 and undershot analysts' forecasts for 2019 output with revised guidance. And costs are also rising more quickly than analysts had thought as the firm battles operational and geological issues at its Sukari mine in Egypt. Tanzania-focused Acacia Mining (majority-owned by Barrick) has had a torrid time after being slapped with an eye-wateringly large 144 billion tax bill by the Tanzanian government in 2017, which has also banned Acacia from exporting gold concentrate and even arrested some of the company's staff. Peel Hunt analysts believe it is undervalued despite being a risky purchase, giving it an 'Add' rating partly on the grounds that it predicts Barrick and the Tanzanian government will come to a resolution this year. But given Centamin's operational disappointments and the dispute overhang with Acacia, they believe Latin America-focused Hochschild Mining might be safer in the near-term. The Barrick-Randgold merger also prompted speculation that some of the mid-market companies would bulk out as the combined company sold smaller assets. Watch closely: Egypt-focused miner Centamin expects gold output to increase by between 4 per cent and 10 per cent this year but its recent track record is far from unblemished Finncap's Raggett believes it is more likely that smaller producers seeking to build scale will be looking for mergers and acquisitions. Cheerleaders of West African gold producer Avesoro Resources say it is in prime position to become one of the main beneficiaries of this trend. Shares in AIM-quoted Avesoro could be about to boom, with the company expected to reveal in the second quarter that the mineral reserves at its Burkina Faso asset are much more extensive than previously thought. But Avesoro is also not in a rush to pay down debt, with AJ Bell's investment director Russ Mould saying it remains a 'highly risky play'. However, SP Angel's research director John Meyer is sceptical that this trend will actually play out at all in the near future. 'Bankers, brokers and advisers love the idea of a wave of acquisitions in the gold sector. The truth is these are rare events,' he says. 'The big miners might offer some peripheral mining assets but there are unlikely to be any bargains on offer till the market forces the company to unwind more debt.' So if the bigger-name, mid-cap miners are generally a risky bunch at present, is this the moment to jump on the small-cap bandwagon and try to suss out the next dynamite exploration company? Another West Africa-focused gold miner, Hummingbird Resources, and Scotgold, a company developing a gold mine in Scotland, both have their enthusiasts. But local production disruptions in Mali ward some analysts off Hummingbird and the potential for environmental opposition for Scotgold's mine targeted to be built in a national park also provide a compelling counter-balance. Investec Global Gold Fund manager George Cheveley warns: 'Single asset and/or country risk can undermine investments in small companies even though the management team may be very credible.' At least for now, it would seem there is no successor to Randgold's blue-chip throne and an element of calculated risk with all the other firms on offer. The old adage might be to 'buy gold' in times of market turmoil. The advice with gold companies is probably best described as: proceed with caution. What is it? It is the option in Baillie Gifford's impressive stable of Japanese equity funds that focuses on smaller companies. It has a portfolio of between 40 and 75 shares. Shin Nippon means New Japan. What does the manager invest in? The manager, Praveen Kumar, principally invests in small Japanese companies which he believes to have above-average prospects. Industrial and information technology stocks account for about half of the fund's assets. Top holdings include Asahi Intecc, Bengo4 and Outsourcing. What do the experts like? Japan's large corporate names are well covered by analysts, but when you move down the scale to smaller firms there is limited research. This is an opportunity for Baillie Gifford to find hidden gems overlooked by the market. Any downsides? Tom Stevenson, investment director at Fidelity Personal Investing, warns Japan is exposed to slowing growth in China and trade tensions with the US. This is a high-octane investment with potentially high rewards but also more risks than a fund focused on bigger, more stable companies. A top executive at ailing Deutsche Bank is being paid an extra 214,000 a month for overseeing the lender's Brexit plans. Garth Ritchie, head of investment banking at the German firm, was paid a total of 7.4million in 2018 up from 2.8million for the previous year. The bonanza came as board members were given bonuses for the first time in four years, even though profits dropped by more than half to 454million last year. Sign of the times: The bonanza came as board members were given bonuses for the first time in four years Ritchie, a 50-year-old South African, is due to get the extra monthly payments until November 2020, by which point he will have earned 7.7million under the scheme. He was paid even more than Deutsche's chief executive Christian Sewing last year who trousered 6million, up from 2.4million. A blockbuster High Court trial will next week pit 'the UK's Bill Gates' against one of America's technology titans. In one of the biggest fraud claims involving a British businessman, Mike Lynch is accused of cooking the books at his former software firm Autonomy before it was sold to HP for 8.5billion eight years ago. HP later wrote off most of the company's value and brought a 3.8billion damages claim against Lynch. The US giant alleges that he and other executives deliberately inflated the firm's value. Fight: Mike Lynch is accused of cooking the books at his former software firm Autonomy before it was sold to HP It will claim this even led Lynch to jet out to Rome to try and win business from the Vatican Library. A deal to digitise the 15th-century library which houses more than 2m books and manuscripts was booked in Autonomy's sales figures even though the project never materialised. The legal battle has left Lynch fighting for his reputation and estimated 469m fortune. He has quit a series of directorships at tech start-ups backed by his investment fund, as well as a prestigious post advising Prime Minister Theresa May, so he can focus on his court clashes. Adding to the pressure are separate criminal charges in the US over the alleged Autonomy fraud, which could see him jailed for 20 years if he is found guilty. Sushovan Hussain, his former finance chief, was found guilty of similar charges last year. Lynch, who could be extradited to America, strongly denies the allegations against him and says they stem from different accounting practices on each side of the Atlantic. He has also accused HP of using him as a scapegoat for their disastrous mismanagement of Autonomy after they bought it and has brought a counter-claim against the company. HP was rife with 'political infighting' after the Autonomy deal, his defence documents claim. Proceedings are due to start on Monday after years of manoeuvring by both sides. Lawyers from City firm Travers Smith are representing HP, with Magic Circle firm Clifford Chance brought in to defend Lynch. The trial is expected to last as long as nine months because of the complex and technical evidence involved. HP accuses Lynch, Hussain and other executives of artificially inflating Autonomy's quarterly revenue figures to make the company appear more valuable. Examples such as the Vatican project saw Autonomy book sales from deals with third-party resellers before it had received any money, it will argue. However, Lynch has insisted the company's auditor, Deloitte, never raised issues with his company's financial reporting and that he relied on its expertise. Deloitte is being investigated by the Financial Reporting Council over the affair. Deloitte declined to comment yesterday. HP Enterprises, which was spun off from HP, has brought the case to court. It declined to comment. A spokesman for Lynch said: 'Mike Lynch is pleased to finally have the opportunity to respond in court to HP's accusations.' A two-year-old boy left to die by his biological father was removed from his foster family because they 'weren't black enough', his outraged foster carer has claimed. Baden Bond was taken from his foster family and returned to his biological parents, Shane Simpson and Dina Bond, in October 2006. Simpson and Bond neglected Baden, who was born with methylamphetamine in his system. They left him in a dark room that stunk of urine and faeces. One night in May 2007 Simpson dumped him at a boat ramp in Logan. He was never seen again and presumed to have drowned in the river. In a shock twist, Daily Mail Australia can also reveal Baden's death was the second to hit Bond and Simpson's family in two years. Their daughter, Kareen, passed away in a 'cot death' a year before Baden was born. The revelation comes as Baden's foster family revealed their anger at how the system failed their beloved little boy - who was making progress with his medical condition before being returned. 'We are so upset. We had Baden for most of his life. But he was taken from us because the indigenous worker told us we weren't black enough to have him. Abused, neglected, drugged from birth by his biological parents ... but 'adored' by his foster family. Baden Bond, one-year-old, this exclusive photo shared by his foster family 'We were told he was never to be returned to his parents because of how violent ... Shane and Dina were. We were absolutely devastated.' Baden (pictured) lost an older sister to SIDS Baden was born at home in May 2005 with meth in his system. He was taken to hospital and believed to have a mild case of cerebral palsy. The indigenous boy was immediately taken into care with a Caucasian foster family at two weeks' old. 'I've had drug babies that scream and scream, but Baden didn't,' the foster mother said. 'He just wanted to be cuddled. He was the most beautiful boy.' Baden was with the family for most of his short life and they were crushed when they learned what happened to him. In late 2006, he was taken away into the care of a second foster family, with the foster mother claiming she was told by an indigenous worker the family wasn't 'black enough'. 'When he was taken from us, he was put in with a Kiwi family, because they told me, they raise him like the Aboriginal children (in respect to cultural traditions),' she claimed. 'But he would have only been there for a couple of months.' Queensland child safety minister Di Farmer said while she can't comment on specific cases, if a child can't be raised by their family, or a suitable relative, authorities then look to 'someone within the child's community, language group or culture to help maintain cultural connections', before they are placed with non-Indigenous carers. Court documents have confirmed that Baden was then returned to the custody of his biological parents in October 2006. But, shockingly, just two months later the Department of Child Safety (DOCS) assessed he was 'at risk of neglect'. Despite that, DOCS ruled he would be safe at home thanks to 'intensive departmental involvement'. That was despite his parents' well-documented history of drug use and hostility to DOCS, the court heard. 'He wanted to be cuddled': Bond as an infant, when he was in the care of his foster family Bond was born with methylamphetamine in his system and was taken to hospital TROUBLING: A TIMELINE OF DOCS INVOLVEMENT WITH BADEN BOND May 2005: Baden Bond is born at home with meth in his system and is taken to hospital. Two weeks later, he is taken into foster care by the Department of Child Safety. October 21, 2006: Bond is returned to the custody of his parents by DOCS December 2006: DOCS assess Baden as 'at risk of neglect', due to their parents' drug history and 'poor history of communication with DOCS'. But the department rules he is safe within the home with 'intensive departmental involvement' March 27, 2007: The last day Baden is seen alive by DOCS. He had a rash on his face 'due to the family dog' May 2007: Baden dies June 2007: DOCS is told Baden is at his aunt's house. The family abandon their home and move to Nambucca Heads, NSW 2016: NSW Family and Community Services officers ask where Baden is. They are told he is with relatives. The department applies to initiate care proceedings March 2016: Police demand to know where Baden is and are told to 'f*** off' March 2017: Police charge Simpson and Bond Advertisement DOCS last saw Baden alive at home by DOCS in March 2007. He had a rash on his head, allegedly from the family dog. What was really happening at their Housing Department home went beyond the worst fears of child safety workers. Witnesses have told the Supreme Court Baden was living in a room that stunk of urine and faeces. Its windows were spray painted black. His parents called him 'little c***', 'devil's child' and 'evil' and Baden was seen at the home with unexplained bruises on his face. His bedroom was locked off and visiting family members were banned from seeing Baden. And then his father, Simpson, decided to rid himself of Baden altogether. Queensland Supreme Court Justice Peter Applegarth described the moment Baden was left for dead in sentencing remarks last week. '(Simpson), you abandoned your two year old son as darkness fell in a park near the Logan River. No one else was there. 'This vulnerable, abandoned toddler presumably was attracted to the water's edge and drowned. 'Having abandoned him so callously and in such danger and having driven off, you did not turn around 10 minutes later or return to that area that night to remove Baden from danger. 'You went home and got on with your life'. So began a decade of deception for Simpson and Bond, the court heard. Police search the Housing Department property where Baden was last living with his biological parents in 2017 Bond's parents, Dina Bond and Shane Simpson, kept him in a room with blacked-out windows that reeked of faeces and urine, a court heard F*** off. We do not need to tell you anything. I gave him away. I do not need to tell you who to. Shane Arthur Simpson's denial to police They fled to Nambucca Heads, on the NSW North Coast, lying to relatives - including Baden's seven surviving siblings - and dodging authorities. Eventually, police caught up to them. In 2016, Simpson told NSW Police: 'F*** off. We do not need to tell you anything. I gave him away. I do not need to tell you who to.' Simpson described the boy to Baden's brother as 'just a little dog f***er' and 'nothing but a troublemaking little c***'. In 2017, he admitted to police that he abandoned Baden. But he never showed a shred of remorse. Simpson said, because Baden was mentally slower than his other kids, he was 'just tired of caring for him.' The court was also told the parents, bizarrely, blamed Baden, because the discovery of drugs in his system had led them to lose custody of their other children. So Simpson dumped Baden at the river, later claiming he said 'sorry' as he left him behind. Baden's grandmother, Carol Bond (in maroon) leaves court after Baden's father admitted killing his young son This is the park where Baden was dropped off and left for dead by the river He was adored. It never should have happened to him. Baden's foster mother Simpson was last week jailed for 12 years on the charge of manslaughter. Bond served more than two years behind bars for being an accessory after the fact to manslaughter. She was released on parole with time served. As for Baden, his foster family just want people to know he was loved - although not by his vile biological parents. 'You see all the comments (online) going 'I hope he was loved' - I'm yelling at the other end going 'yes, he was!' 'He was adored. It should never have happened to him.' Female stand-up comedians are scared to walk home late at night after gigs - as a shocking report reveals half of young women feel unsafe. Young women more than doubled men reporting to feel unsafe walking alone after dark, according to a survey of 30,000 people by Mission Australia. The report comes after Aya Masarwe was killed returning from a comedy show in January and comedian Eurydice Dixon was murdered in similar circumstances last year. Aya Masarwe is murdered in northern Melbourne after watching a comedy show in the city. Young women more than doubled men in feeling unsafe walking alone after dark Sydney comedian Kathryn Thomas said she was cornered by a drunk man after a comedy gig at the Cafe Lounge in Surry Hills. 'I was being followed by a man in a hooded jacket, I had earphones in and picked up pace as soon as I realised there was someone else on the quiet street,' she said. 'The man gained pace on me and managed to corner me next to a skip bin on the footpath. 'Luckily, as this happened a taxi came down the street and I screamed for it to stop. 'I pushed past the man and got in the taxi.' She called for comics to leave gigs together and look out for each other in the Sydney Comedy Scene Facebook page after the incident. Kathryn Thomas (pictured) was cornered by a drunk man in Sydney's Surry Hills after a comedy gig. She managed to push past him and escaped in a taxi Sydney comedian Stephanie Broadbridge, 36, 'hates the idea of being a victim' and tries not to think about safety when walking at night from gigs. 'There have been a couple of times where I was genuinely terrified,' she said. 'The scariest part for me was that I felt inadequately equipped to protect myself. 'I wasnt sure how I could stop it if the guy did turn on me and try anything. 'They were physically stronger than me and there is nothing I could have done about that.' Stephanie Broadbridge 'hates the idea of being a victim' but said there have been times when she was 'genuinely terrified'. She is pictured performing musical comedy with a ukelele The Mission Australia survey found that 47 per cent of women feel unsafe walking home, as opposed to 18 per cent of men. Mission Australia CEO James Toomey said 'we need to put a spotlight on what young women are telling us'. 'This is not OK, young females should not have to tolerate feeling unsafe as they go about their day to day lives.' Women returning home at night from comedy shows have been a consistent target of men in the last year. International student Aya Maasarwe, 21, was killed while she was returning home from a comedy night in Northern Melbourne on January 16. Comedian Eurydice Dixon, 22, was raped and murdered in a Melbourne Park as she walked home from a comedy show on June 14, 2018. The peculiar sight of strangers silently sitting and staring into each other's eyes in Australian parks is part of the 'eye gazing' phenomenon. The Human Connection Movement wants to reduce anxiety and loneliness through eye gazing events across Australia - with two coming up in Sydney and Melbourne. Founder and actor Igor Kreyman started the movement in public parks but now also runs couples sessions and corporate activities. Strangers sit opposite each other in parks and silently stare into each others eyes. There are two eye gazing events coming up this month in Sydney and Melbourne Around 100 people arrive at parks and sit opposite a stranger in casual sessions that run for up to four hours. Mr Kreyman said there is an 'loneliness and mental health epidemic' and eye gazing can reduce anxiety and improve confidence. 'People give their power to external forces like anxiety and social media,' he said. 'People might be anxious about looking into someone's eyes for the first time but after they sit with someone in a safe environment all their distracting thoughts disappear within minutes.' One in four Australians are lonely and younger Australians are more likely to be anxious about socialising, according to the 2018 Loneliness Report. Actor Igor Kreyman is the founder of the Human Connection Movement who run the events. He said there is a 'loneliness and mental health epidemic' and eye gazing can help reduce it Mr Kreyman highlighted that although social media brings people together, it can have a negative impact self worth. 'I think comparison and competition is part of a process that affects people,' he said. 'When you look at someone's Instagram profile, you're seeing a curated image of someone. 'When you look into someone's eyes, you see them for who they are.' Mr Kreyman said people 'associate prolonged eye contact with intimacy'. He said the point of eye gazing is to see people for their true self rather than their physical appearance Mr Kreyman said eye gazing is not romantic despite people 'associating prolonged eye contact with intimacy'. 'When you see someone for who they are, that sexual desire begins to dissolve slowly and you see them for a higher aspect - for more than their physical appearance.' 'If you do connect with someone, the connection would be amplified.' He said some people have inevitably formed romantic relationships from eye gazing sessions. 'Think about it, you've got people looking into each other people's eyes - it's going to happen.' Mr Kreyman was originally inspired by artist Marina Abramovic who silently stared into strangers eyes at MOMA. The Human Connection Movement has taken eye gazing overseas to Los Angeles and regularly run sessions in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Byron Bay. There are free sessions at Melbourne's Albert Park on March 23 and at Sydney's Hyde Park on March 30. Mr Kreyman encouraged people to 'be happy now rather than waiting for happiness'. A jury reached a verdict Friday night in the trial of a white former police officer who shot and killed an unarmed black teen fleeing a high-stakes traffic stop outside Pittsburgh. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld fired on 17-year-old Antwon Rose II last summer outside Pittsburgh in a killing that sparked weeks of unrest. Jurors informed the court Friday night that they had reached a verdict. They can convict Rosfeld of murder or manslaughter, or return an acquittal. Rosfeld, 30, shot Rose in the back, arm and side of the face after pulling over an unlicensed taxi that had been used in a drive-by shooting. Rosfeld ordered the driver to the ground, but Rose and another passenger got out and began running away. Jurors saw video of the fatal confrontation, which showed Rose falling to the ground after being hit. Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Fodi declared in his closing argument Friday that Rosfeld had acted as 'judge, jury and executioner.' Rose family attorney, S. Lee Merritt, left, and Michelle Kenney, center, mother of Antwon Rose II, walk towards members of the media following the closing arguments in the homicide trial of former East Pittsburgh Police officer Michael Rosfeld, Friday, March 22, 2019. at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. A jury has started deliberating in the homicide trial of Rosfeld, a white former police officer charged with killing Rose, an unarmed black teenager outside Pittsburgh last summer.(Nate Smallwood/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Rosfeld could have waited for backup or given chase, Fodi said, adding that teenagers sometimes run from police. 'Is it foolish? Yes. Does it deserve death? No. Is it reasonable? Absolutely not,' Fodi said. 'There was no need to use deadly force.' Rosfeld told the jury he thought Rose or the other passenger had a gun. The defense said the shooting was justified because Rosfeld believed he was in danger and couldn't wait for other officers to get there. 'He's a sitting duck,' defense attorney Patrick Thomassey told jurors in his closing, asking them to consider 'the standard of what a reasonable police officer would do under the circumstances.' The defense asked Judge Alexander Bicket to acquit Rosfeld, but the judge declined. 'We believe the jury has enough information to arrive at the right conclusion: that Antwon Rose was murdered,' the family's attorney, S. Lee Merritt, told The Associated Press in a courthouse hallway. Merritt said 'it's pretty obvious' Rose was not a threat to Rosfeld. Rose had been riding in the front seat of the cab when another occupant in the back, Zaijuan Hester, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street, hitting one in the abdomen. A few minutes later, Rosfeld spotted their car, which had its rear windshield shot out, and pulled it over. Hester, 18, pleaded guilty last week to aggravated assault and firearms violations. Hester told a judge that he, not Rose, did the shooting. At the beginning of the trial's fourth day Friday, a defense expert, retired Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Clifford W. Jobe Jr., returned to the stand and repeated his belief that Rosfeld followed his training when he shot Rose. Under cross-examination, Jobe agreed with Fodi that a police officer can lie, violate the law or be unreasonable. He also agreed with the prosecutor that, in some circumstances, it is reasonable to refrain from shooting or to disengage from a situation. But Jobe said that Rosfeld was within his rights to use 'deadly force' to stop fleeing suspects he thought had been involved in a shooting. 'What did Michael Rosfeld do wrong on June the 19th?' asked Thomassey, the defense attorney. 'I don't think he did anything wrong. He was following his training,' Jobe replied. A day earlier, Rosfeld testified that he thought Rose or the other passenger had pointed a weapon at him. Neither teen was holding a gun at the time, though two guns were later found in the car. 'It happened very quickly,' Rosfeld said. 'My intent was to end the threat that was made against me.' Prosecutors say Rosfeld has given inconsistent statements about the shooting, including whether he thought Rose was armed. A prosecution witness has said that after the shooting, he heard Rosfeld say repeatedly, 'I don't know why I shot him. I don't know why I fired.' Another prosecution witness said he heard the officer ask, 'Why did he do that? Why did he take that out of his pocket?' In his closing, Fodi said the video evidence shows 'there was no threat' to Rosfeld, who he said 'squared up' on the taxi 'with plenty of time to do something about it.' 'We don't shoot first and ask questions later,' Fodi said. But Thomassey said prosecutors did not produce a single witness 'to say Michael Rosfeld did not do what he was supposed to do. They knew he was doing it by the book.' One juror, a white woman who had taken copious notes, was dismissed from the panel Friday and replaced with a white man. No reason was given for her dismissal. The jury now consists of seven men and five women. There are three black jurors. Also Friday, Bicket lifted a gag order he imposed on the parties in the case. Thomassey made the request, saying that while he and prosecutors had abided by the judge's order, the attorney for Rose's family had not. Merritt released a letter to the media this week that Rose's mother wrote to prosecutors urging them to show what a 'kind, loving and funny' person her son was. Michelle Kenney, center, mother of Antwon Rose II, speaks to members of the media following the closing arguments in the homicide trial of former East Pittsburgh Police officer Michael Rosfeld, Friday, March 22, 2019. at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. A jury has started deliberating in the homicide trial of Rosfeld, a white former police officer charged with killing Rose, an unarmed black teenager outside Pittsburgh last summer.(Nate Smallwood/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Rose family attorney, S. Lee Merritt, left, and Michelle Kenney, center, mother of Antwon Rose II, walk towards members of the media following the closing arguments in the homicide trial of former East Pittsburgh Police officer Michael Rosfeld, Friday, March 22, 2019. at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. A jury has started deliberating in the homicide trial of Rosfeld, a white former police officer charged with killing Rose, an unarmed black teenager outside Pittsburgh last summer.(Nate Smallwood/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Rose family attorney, S. Lee Merritt, left, and Michelle Kenney, center, mother of Antwon Rose II, address members of the media following the closing arguments in the homicide trial of former East Pittsburgh Police officer Michael Rosfeld, Friday, March 22, 2019. at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. A jury has started deliberating in the homicide trial of Rosfeld, a white former police officer charged with killing Rose, an unarmed black teenager outside Pittsburgh last summer.(Nate Smallwood/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Rose family attorney, S. Lee Merritt, speaks with the media Friday, March 22, 2019, at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. The defense has rested its case in the homicide trial of the white police officer charged with shooting and killing an unarmed black teenager near Pittsburgh. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld is charged with gunning down 17-year-old Antwon Rose II last summer. (Nate Smallwood/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Rose family attorney, S. Lee Merritt, speaks with the media Friday, March 22, 2019, at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. The defense has rested its case in the homicide trial of the white police officer charged with shooting and killing an unarmed black teenager near Pittsburgh. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld is charged with gunning down 17-year-old Antwon Rose II last summer. (Nate Smallwood/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Rose family attorney, S. Lee Merritt, speaks with the media Friday, March 22, 2019, at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. The defense has rested its case in the homicide trial of the white police officer charged with shooting and killing an unarmed black teenager near Pittsburgh. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld is charged with gunning down 17-year-old Antwon Rose II last summer. (Nate Smallwood/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Patrick Thomassey, attorney for former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld, speaks Friday, March 22, 2019, at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. The defense has rested its case in the homicide trial of the white police officer charged with shooting and killing an unarmed black teenager near Pittsburgh. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld is charged with gunning down 17-year-old Antwon Rose II last summer. (Nate Smallwood//Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Patrick Thomassey, attorney for former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld, speaks Friday, March 22, 2019, at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. The defense has rested its case in the homicide trial of the white police officer charged with shooting and killing an unarmed black teenager near Pittsburgh. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld is charged with gunning down 17-year-old Antwon Rose II last summer. (Nate Smallwood/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Republican Iowa Rep. Steve King has sparked outrage after slamming Hurricane Katrina victims for asking for government help in the aftermath of the devastating and deadly storm. Speaking at a town hall meeting in Charter Oak on Thursday, King addressed how Iowa is dealing with the state's devastating floods this month, boasting that Iowans 'take care of each other' and are handling the waters themselves. He then drew a comparison to how New Orleans responded to Hurricane Katrina, belittling the city for asking for government help. Iowa Rep. Steve King has come under fire for slamming Hurricane Katrina victims for asking for government help following the 2005 storm, unlike Iowans who 'take care of each other'. King is pictured above making his controversial comments during a town hall meeting Thursday On Thursday he boasted that Iowans 'take care of each other' as the state reels from devastating floods this month that have caused $1.6billion in damage Streets were turned into rivers in Hamburg, Iowa after the Missouri River flooded 'Here's what FEMA tells me: We go to a place like New Orleans and everybody's looking around saying, "Who's gonna help me, who's gonna help me?"' he said referring to the Federal Emergency management Agency. 'When FEMA responds to problems in Iowa, they're just always gratified when they come and see how Iowans take care of each other,' he added. His comments sparked fury as the 2005 hurricane destroyed and debilitated Louisiana, killing 1,833 people in southern states. The devastating floods in the Iowa and Nebraska have led to at least four deaths. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said Friday that floods in the state led to an estimated $1.6billion in damage and she issued a letter to President Trump to issue a disaster declaration for 57 counties in Iowa impacted in the floods. King is known for making controversial comments on race and his statements drew a comparison to Iowa's mostly white population to New Orleans' predominantly black population. FEMA spokeswoman Lizzie Litzoe countered Steve King's comments where he praised Iowa's recovery efforts following the floods and dissed New Orleans for asking for government aid following Hurricane Katrina Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards slammed King, calling his comments 'disgusting and disheartening' Louisiana Rep Cedric Richmond joined the chorus and slammed King as a 'white supremacist' FEMA spokeswoman Lizzie Litzow rejected King's remarks on Friday. '.@SteveKingIA's recent comments about @FEMA comparing recovery efforts are inaccurate,' she tweeted. 'All disasters are unique and our mission remains true that we are here to help all people before, during, and after disasters,' she added. His comments led to intense backlash and Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards, responded to King's comments saying his portrayal of Katrina survivors were 'disgusting and disheartening'. 'When communities are affected by disasters, we come together to help each other, not tear each other down,' Edwards added. His comments sparked fury as the 2005 hurricane destroyed and debilitated Louisiana, killing 1,833 people in southern states. The devastating floods in Iowa and Nebraska have led to at least four deaths Louisiana Rep. Cedric Richmond slammed King as a 'white supremacist' for his comments. 'My heart goes out to all Iowans. Though it unsettles me that @SteveKingIA would dare compare them to the countless victims of Katrina, many of whom lost their lives. When people show you who they are, believe them,' he tweeted on Thursday. 'Steve King is a white supremacist and I wont stand for it,' he added. House Republican Whip Steve Scalise, who was born in New Orleans, responded to King in a statement saying, 'His comments about Katrina victims are absurd and offensive, and are a complete contradiction to the strength and resilience the people of New Orleans demonstrated to the entire nation in the wake of the total devastation they experienced.' It was the latest slap from House Republican leaders to King. Earlier this year, they punished him for comments about race, most recently stripping King of his committee assignments. Advertisement Toting a semi-automatic rifle, police officer Michelle Evans looked foreboding as she stood outside a cemetery in Christchurch on Thursday. But her decision to wear a hijab and pin a red rose to her bulletproof vest as an act of symbolic solidarity touched people around the world. The photograph, taken by Associated Press photographer Vincent Yu, went viral on Friday with many people commenting that Ms Evans perfectly reflected the feeling many New Zealanders had towards Muslims. Constable Evans is just 24 and joined the police force in 2016 as a new recruit. In an interview she gave to The Whanganui Chronicle, Ms Evans said she wanted to become a police officer to serve the Whanganui community, where she was brought up. 'I want my career to be here. I love Whanganui. It's a beautiful, small town and this is where I want to live,' she said. Constable Michelle Evans, 24, donned a black Calvin Klein head scarf while she stood guard at Christchurch Memorial Park Cemetery on Thursday Ms Evans shows her pierced ear and blonde hair out of her police uniform. In her spare time she likes to work out, travel, paint and read Constable Evans joined the police force in 2016 as a new recruit when she was just 22-years-old. She wanted to become a police officer to serve her hometown Whanganui Ms Evans shared a post about the pressure of being a police officer six months ago. 'Its not normal, to carry the burdens police officers do, emotionally, physically, and mentally,' the post said. Constable Evans began policing after spending her gap year studying business and accounting. When she began working at Whanganui Police she wanted to focus on youth engagement and frontline work. She works out everyday, likes to paint scenery and reads about health and psychology because she is interested in how people think. Pictures of Constable Evans armed with a Bushmaster rifle have gone viral with many commending her for wearing the scarf Ms Evans stands side by side with a female paramedic who is also wearing a hijab. Hundreds of non-Muslim women have donned head scarfs to show solidarity with the Muslim community 'We're not going to leave until we know everybody's safe,' Ms Evans said. Police guarded the cemetery where funerals for people killed in the Christchurch mass shooting took place A fellow male police officer took off his hat to show respect for family and friends saying bye to their loved ones On Friday Ms Evan's colleague took off his cap to show respect for grieving family and friends attending funerals. While New Zealand bikie gang Mongrel Mob stood guard outside Friday prayers in Jamia Masjid mosque in Hamilton, in the North Island. Hundreds of Muslims and non-Muslims gathered in the city's Hagley Park opposite the Al Noor mosque where worshipers were gunned down in a horrific terror attack just over a week ago. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern wore a black and gold headscarf for the emotional engagement. 'New Zealand mourns with you, we are one,' she said. The call to prayer was heard at 1.30pm local time (11.30am AEDT) and followed by two minutes of silence. Senator Ted Cruz has shared his opposition to Chick-fil-A being banned from San Antonio International Airport, claiming that fast food fans are being punished because of the company's philanthropic efforts. The Texas Republican on Friday afternoon responded to news the restaurant was blocked from opening at the airport in April 2020 due to its donations to organizations that have expressed anti-LGBTQ views. 'The citizens of beautiful San Antonio deserve more delicious sandwiches, and fewer rabid attacks against companies because of their charitable giving to the community. Come on,' Cruz posted on Twitter alongside an article revealing the City Council voted to pass a project as long as the chicken eatery wasn't a part of it. Scroll down for videos Six council members approved ban on Chick-fil-A at San Antonio International Airport as part of a new project coming in April 2020 Councilman Roberto Trevino made a motion to approve the Food, Beverage and Retail Prime Concession Agreement with Paradies Lagardere, 'provided it exclude the Chick-Fil-A concept' Senator Ted Cruz has shared his opposition to Chick-fil-A being banned from the airport As well as the post to 1.22 million on his government account, Cruz tweeted 'ridiculous' in response to the story on his personal Twitter page which has 3.3 million followers. The move came after on Wednesday Think Progress shared tax documents from Chick-fil-A Inc. showing it had donated $1.8million to discriminatory organizations. It was despite a 2012 backlash against Chick-fil-A's CEO Dan Cathy who claimed America is 'inviting God's judgment on our nation when we shake our fist at him and say we know better than you as to what constitutes a marriage.' The company later vowed in a Facebook statement to 'leave the policy debate over same-sex marriage to the government and political arena'. International Economic Development Council president Jeff Finkle said after including Chick-fil-A in a conference on equality that he believed the company was reforming and that its tax returns would reflect that. But tax returns show the Chick-fil-A Foundation gave $1,653,416 to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, $6,000 to the Paul Anderson Youth Home, and $150,000 to the Salvation Army in 2017. It was even more than in 2016. Cruz tweeted 'ridiculous' in response to the story on his personal Twitter page which has 3.3 million followers Tax documents from Chick-fil-A Inc. showing they donated $1.8million to discriminatory organizations, including $1,653,416 to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes It was reported the Salvation Army had opposed legal protection for the LGBTQ community, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes had a policy that banned 'homosexual acts' and the Paul Anderson Youth Home taught troubled residents that homosexuality was wrong. The chicken strip restaurant told Think Progress they stopped donating to the youth home after a 'blog post from 2010 surfaced that does not meet Chick-fil-A's commitment to creating a welcoming environment to all'. But the damage was already done for the City of San Antonio, which on Thursday revealed District 1 City Councilman Roberto Trevino had made a motion to approve the Food, Beverage and Retail Prime Concession Agreement with Paradies Lagardere 'provided that it exclude the Chick-Fil-A concept'. The amendment was approved by a vote of 6-4. Trevino said in a statement: 'With this decision, the City Council reaffirmed the work our city has done to become a champion of equality and inclusion. San Antonio is a city full of compassion, and we do not have room in our public facilities for a business with a legacy of anti-LGBTQ behavior. 'Everyone has a place here, and everyone should feel welcome when they walk through our airport. I look forward to the announcement of a suitable replacement by Paradies.' The Luxury, Smoke Shack BBQ and Southern Kitchen, Boss Wood Fired Bagels & Coffee, Sip Brew Bar and Market, Local Coffee (pictured), the Spurs Store and iStore/Adina's Market are expected to have a presence KTSA reported the original idea for Chick-fil-A as one of the concessions for the seven-year contract - with three opportunities for one-year extensions came from City Council members. Initially having Panda Express in mind, Trevino secured votes opposing the idea for the project expected to raise $2.1million in revenue for the city. Elements of the new agreement include a coffee kiosk in the baggage claim area, food options before reaching the security line, fast pay areas and charging stations at restaurants. Passengers will be able to enjoy the culinary creations of award-winning chef Andrew Weisman and other local iconic personalities, taste some local barbecue and purchase memorabilia or a T-shirt from the NBA's San Antonio Spurs. The Luxury, Smoke Shack BBQ and Southern Kitchen, Boss Wood Fired Bagels & Coffee, Sip Brew Bar and Market, Local Coffee, the Spurs Store and iStore/Adina's Market are expected to have a presence. The final outlet will be decided at a later date. 'The more than 34 million tourists who visit San Antonio annually already know about San Antonio's unique ambiance, history and culture, Mayor Ron Nirenberg said Thursday. 'Giving them an opportunity to taste some of our city's finest local culinary delights at the airport will enhance the city's appeal encouraging further exploration and longer stays.' But the Atlanta-founded Chick-fil-A will not be a part of that. Last month New Jersey's Rider University College of Business dean Cynthia Newman resigned after the campus banned Chick-fil-A from opening on its private campus due to its perceived 'opposition to the LGBTQ+ community' Check-fil-A told DailyMail.com in a statement: 'The press release issued by the councilmember was the first we heard of his motion and its approval by the San Antonio City Council. We wish we had the opportunity to clarify misperceptions about our company prior to the vote. 'We agree with the councilmember that everyone should feel welcome at Chick-fil-A. In fact, we have welcomed everyone in San Antonio into our 32 local stores for more than 40 years. Our local restaurants consistently give back to the San Antonio community, and have awarded more than $600,000 in scholarships to Chick-fil-A restaurant team members in San Antonio.' Mentioning that they were named 'Best Franchise Brand' in 2018 by Airport Revenue News, Chick-fil-A said they have been 'transparent about our giving' via their website and are 'proud of the positive impact we are making in communities across America, and specifically in San Antonio'. 'We would welcome the opportunity to have a thoughtful dialogue with the city council and we invite all of them into our local stores to interact with the more than 2,000 team members who are serving the people of San Antonio, the statement continued. 'We hope they will experience for themselves that Chick-fil-A embraces all people, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity.' Last month New Jersey's Rider University College of Business dean Cynthia Newman resigned after the campus banned Chick-fil-A from opening on its private campus due to its perceived 'opposition to the LGBTQ+ community'. It was after requesting the school apologize for disparaging language used about the corporate values of the restaurant, and the school failing to do so. Advertisement Voting has opened across New South Wales in an election that's tipped to be one of the closest in decades. More than four million people are expected to vote at more than 2200 polling booths around the state. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Opposition Leader Michael Daley were up early on Saturday to cast their votes. Ms Berejiklian stuck with the Australian tradition after voting at Willoughby Public School, in Sydney's north, by tucking into a sausage. Scroll down for video NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured right) eats a sausage roll alongside Liberal candidate for East Hills Wendy Lindsay (left) during a visit to the Revesby Public School on 2019 New South Wales election day in Sydney, Saturday It has been confirmed that Ms Berejiklian's sausage was eaten the appropriate way with the onions under the sausage Voters across New South Wales have been enjoying a Democracy Sausage in the sunshine on Saturday ahead of an election that's tipped to be one of the closest in decades Ms Berejiklian ordered her sausage with onions and smothered it in barbecue sauce. Social media users were quick to question where the onions had been placed on Ms Berejiklian after national outrage was sparked when Bunnings introduced its sausage safety rules last year. Bunnings chief operating officer Debbie Poole at the time said onion should be placed underneath sausages to help prevent the onion from falling out and creating a slipping hazard. It has since been confirmed that Ms Berejiklian's sausage was eaten the appropriate way with the onions under the sausage. Controversial: Opposition Leader Michael Daley finally found room to devour his Democracy Sausage. He captioned the image with: 'Onions on top'. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison eats a sausage roll at the Sylvania Heights Public School, on 2019 New South Wales election day in Sydney Voting, Australian style, where its considered tradition to buy a Democracy Sausage as you vote. This person went with the standard onion and tomato sauce Social media has been flooded with posts featuring #democracysausage as New South Wales residents hit the polling booths The NSW premier is aiming to become the first popularly-elected female premier in NSW history - and based on the latest polls, this is now a distinct possibility. 'It's going to be really really tight and I think today the people will decide for themselves but I don't want to see NSW go backwards,' she told Today. 'We're building for the future now, we've got a strong economy, we're helping taking pressure off families and that's where I want to see NSW (go) into the future.' Mr Daley decided to cast his vote at Chifley Public School in Sydney's east. And while most voters stick to the Australian tradition of opting for Democracy Sausage after casting their vote, Mr Daley was seen tucking into a meat pie instead. Speaking to Sydney Morning Herald outside the school, he said the polls had been tight. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured) and and Opposition Leader Michael Daley were up early to cast their votes on Saturday NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian stuck with the Australian tradition by eating a sausage after casting her vote on Saturday More than four million people are expected to vote at more than 2200 polling booths around the state as voting opens on Saturday morning Ms Berejiklian was at Willoughby Public School, in Sydney's north, submitting her voting form. She opted for cupcakes over a sanga '(It was) easier 30 years ago when the voting patterns were different. People chop and change - that's not a bad thing. You have to work harder for that vote.' As the day was drawing to a close Mr Daley finally found room for a sausage. The Opposition leader posted images of himself devouring a sausage on two pieces of bread to Twitter. He opted for tomato sauce as his condiment of choice. He captioned the image with: 'Onions on top'. Nearly 1.1 million people took advantage of early voting, with about one-in-five making their decision at pre-poll centres or via the post, internet or telephone. A special Newspoll, published in The Weekend Australian, suggested the coalition is ahead of Labor 51-49 on a two-party preferred basis. A similar result at the election would see Ms Berejiklian lose six seats, meaning she would need the support of at least one independent from the crossbench to form a government. If the Coalition win on Saturday, it would be the first time since 1971 that a Liberal Party-led government in NSW had won a third consecutive term and Ms Berejiklian would become the first popularly elected female premier in NSW history. Michael Daley partakes in a Democracy Sausage on Saturday after rising early to vote. He started his day with a meat pie and strawberry milk A cupcake stand at a voting site had a tribute to Eggboy with chocolate cupcakes topped with egg lollies. The cupcakes were $3 each Voters joke about voting for Eggboy following the now infamous incident last Saturday, which saw teenager Will Connolly crack an egg on the controversial politician Fraser Anning's head A woman heads for a morning swim, dressed in bathers and a swim cap, as people vote at Clovelly Surf Lifesaving Club on Saturday Voting was underway at Timbumburi Public School (pictured), the school was promoting the Democracy Sausage The Newspoll showed the Coalition has lost support outside Sydney, with a six per cent slump in primary-vote support to 39 per cent, deadlocking it with Labor at 50-50 on a two-party-preferred basis. Ms Berejiklian leads Labor leader Michael Daley 43 to 35 as preferred premier, but 22 per cent of voters remained uncommitted. Mr Daley's disapproval rating rose nine points from 38 per cent to 47 and his satisfaction rating dropped five points from 37 to 32. Ms Berejiklian emerged victorious at the People's Forum on Wednesday where she debated key policies with Mr Daley. From an audience of 100 undecided voters, Ms Berejiklian managed to draw 50 in favour of the Coalition while the opposition leader only managed to draw 25 votes. The final 25 were undecided. A series of blunders from Mr Daley helped lift Ms Berejiklian to the top as the Labor leader drew blanks on a number of his party's policies. The debate came after a September 2018 video of Mr Daley surfaced where he claimed young people were being forced to 'flee' Sydney because educated Asian migrants were stealing their jobs. A bad week for Mr Daley also hurt Labor's primary vote, which is now at 35 per cent. Election day means Democracy Sausages in Australia. Voters will be clambering to get their mouths around one on Saturday Barbecues have been fired up ready for Saturday's election. Voters have been getting their hands on Democracy Sausages on offer across New South Wales on Saturday Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison cooks sausages with daughter Lily (centre) alongside the NSW Liberal candidate for Miranda, Eleni Petinos at the Sylvania Heights Public School, on 2019 New South Wales election day The Coalition's statewide primary vote is up one to 41 per cent, with the Greens steady at ten per cent and 'others', which includes independents, One Nation and the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party, also steady at 14 per cent. Ms Berejiklian and the Coalition government have been slammed by Labor for their controversial plan to knock down Allianz Stadium in Sydney's eastern suburbs. Major demolition works have already begun on the stadium, which will be bulldozed and replaced with a new one at a cost of $729 million. Mr Daley has been pushing to stop the works until at least after the election, on the basis that if he is elected he will refurbish the stadium at a lower cost. Ms Berejiklian has also come under fire for her hard-line stance against drug testing following a spate of drug-related deaths at music festivals. A number of music festivals have since been cancelled due to high costs of new rules governing the events, including increased security. Polling booths are open until 6pm on Saturday. While most voters were keen on a Democracy Sausage after casting their vote, Opposition Leader Michael Daley opted for a meat pie instead The details of the long-awaited Mueller report have not been made public Special counsel Robert Mueller delivered the results of his two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election to Attorney General William Barr on Friday, and the internet had a lot to say about it. The details of the long-awaited Mueller report have not been made public but he has not recommended any new criminal indictments. Only time will tell whether President Donald Trump will be implicated. But that didn't stop meme wizards and Twitter comedians from weighing in on this historical moment. From depictions of Mueller taking a much-deserved vacation, to Marie Kondo expressing joy over how much she loves a good mess, and so many jokes about procrastinating leading up to deadline, the internet was quick to poke fun on how the investigation continues to play out. Scroll down for video Special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election officially ended on Friday and the internet did not waste time making jokes about the situation. Mueller is shown arriving at his office in Washington, DC on Thursday One meme by Twitter user @CoffeeNTrees showed Mueller's face behind cartoon sunglasses, edited onto the body former President Barach Obama on a boat wearing a life vest, from not long after he left office Trevor Noah's '@TheDailyShow' also got in on the fun, making Mueller over into a version of Beyonce as she appeared in her 'Lemonade' studio album. 'Oooh Mueller report just dropped!' the account posted, making fun of the fervor with which Beyonce's work of art was received when it came out unexpectedly Another post referenced the cultural phenomenon that has become of Marie Kondo and her Netlix series, 'Tidying Up,' with a play on words about what a mess this whole thing is One meme by Twitter user @CoffeeNTrees showed Mueller's face behind cartoon sunglasses, edited onto the body former President Barach Obama on a boat wearing a life vest, from not long after he left office. 'Robert Mueller at 5.15 today,' the post read, implying Mueller immediately went on vacation after turning over his findings to AG Barr. Another post referenced the cultural phenomenon that has become of Marie Kondo and her Netlix series, 'Tidying Up.' In the show, Kondo often says she gets excited about the change to help people organize their lives, saying 'I love mess.' Twitter user '@mattcasill' referenced Kondo's brand showcasing a still of her from the show saying, 'I'm so excited because I love mess,' with the caption, 'tfw [that feeling when] when the mueller report gets delivered.' Author Caroline Moss came in swinging with a much less wholesome cultural reference. Author Caroline Moss came in swinging with a much less wholesome cultural reference. Moss brought up YouTube star Shane Dawson having to clarify that he did not 'f**k his cat' or ejaculate on his cat, after saying he did in unearthed podcast audio Another post by '@ebfavs' showed a scene that would strike fear into the hearts of many, because we've all undoubtedly been there. It's Mueller depicted getting technical support at an Apple store as a woman looks on, captioned with 'I swear I hit save' Moss brought up YouTube star Shane Dawson having to clarify that he did not 'f**k his cat' or ejaculate on his cat, after saying he did in unearthed podcast audio. Moss tweeted a fictional rendition of what a comedic take on the Mueller report might look like if it was released as a thread. 'The Mueller Report,' she wrote, followed with, 'I didn't f**k my cat (1/2847). Another post by '@ebfavs' showed a scene that would strike fear into the hearts of many, because we've all undoubtedly been there. It's Mueller depicted getting technical support at an Apple store as a woman looks on, captioned with 'I swear I hit save.' Along the same lines, Patrick Monahan, co-host of the What A Time To Be Alive podcast, described a scene many writers are all too familiar with. 'Robert Mueller sweating in front of his laptop, staring at a Word doc containing only the words The Mueller Report and a blinking cursor,' he wrote. Trevor Noah's '@TheDailyShow' also got in on the fun, making Mueller over into a version of Beyonce as she appeared in her 'Lemonade' studio album. 'Oooh Mueller report just dropped!' the account posted, making fun of the fervor with which Beyonce's work of art was received when it came out unexpectedly. On the image, The Daily Show team had overlayed text reading 'Kremlinade,' referring to Russia's citadel in Moscow. Along the same lines, Patrick Monahan, co-host of the What A Time To Be Alive podcast, described a scene many writers are all too familiar with, writing, 'Robert Mueller sweating in front of his laptop, staring at a Word doc containing only the words The Mueller Report and a blinking cursor' Actor, director, author, and activist George Takei took a straight forward approach at poking fun at the president, quoting an imaginary conversation between the leader of the free world and Mueller Twitter use '@KenCox' joked that Mueller had important plans after dropping off his report Actor, director, author, and activist George Takei took a straight forward approach at poking fun at the president, quoting an imaginary conversation between the leader of the free world and Mueller. Trump has often referred to the Mueller probe as a 'witch hunt' so Takei ran with that. 'Trump: WITCH HUNT!' Takei wrote, envisioning a reply from Mueller saying, 'Here you go. Enjoy your weekend.' Twitter use '@KenCox' joked that Mueller had important plans after dropping off his lengthy report. 'Mueller's going to take the car in for service after ignoring that Check Engine light for the last year,' he wrote. So many others got in a viral thread with sarcastic comments about being on deadline. Mother Jones national politics writer Tim Murphy kicked it off, tweeting, 'I've been in Robert Mueller's position before and let me tell you, he has not written sh*t.' The replies came rolling in, including some real gems showcasing classic procrastination methods that have stood the test of time. So many others got in a viral thread with sarcastic comments about being on deadline. Mother Jones national politics writer Tim Murphy kicked it off, tweeting, 'I've been in Robert Mueller's position before and let me tell you, he has not written sh*t' The replies came rolling in, including some real gems showcasing classic procrastination methods that have stood the test of time. User '@lizchar' wrote, 'Mueller's just gonna take a quick nap and then workon the report when he gets up...' Similarly, White House reporter for the Washington Post and MSNBC and NBC News political analyst Ashley Parker joked in a tweet, 'Muellers gonna just rest his eyes for a minute and then see if there are any Thin Mints still left in the freezer...' Switching stalling methods, Matt Duss, foreign policy advisor for senator Bernie Sanders, wrote, 'Mueller suddenly realized how important it was to look up the filmography of the guy who played Porkins' User '@lizchar' wrote, 'Mueller's just gonna take a quick nap and then work on the report when he gets up...' Similarly, White House reporter for the Washington Post and MSNBC and NBC News political analyst Ashley Parker joked in a tweet, 'Muellers gonna just rest his eyes for a minute and then see if there are any Thin Mints still left in the freezer...' Switching stalling methods, Matt Duss, foreign policy advisor for senator Bernie Sanders, wrote, 'Mueller suddenly realized how important it was to look up the filmography of the guy who played Porkins.' Washington Post nonfiction book critic Carlos Lozada tweeted, 'Mueller's going to go for a quick run to clear his head and then really get cranking on this thing...' Washington Post nonfiction book critic Carlos Lozada tweeted, 'Mueller's going to go for a quick run to clear his head and then really get cranking on this thing...' Twitter user '@WenzlerPowers' wrote, 'Muellers's gonna take himself out to lunch because he can't think in his own place and going outside will get the juices flowing' White House correspondent for The Atlantic and CNN political analyst Elaina Plott tweeted, 'Muellers gonna dust the whole apartment and then iron a few things because hes really been meaning to do that' 'Muellers gonna just do a quick rewatch of Russian Doll start to finish & then its DOWN TO BUSINESS,' writer Rachel Klein tweeted. Twitter user '@WenzlerPowers' wrote, 'Muellers's gonna take himself out to lunch because he can't think in his own place and going outside will get the juices flowing.' White House correspondent for The Atlantic and CNN political analyst Elaina Plott tweeted, 'Muellers gonna dust the whole apartment and then iron a few things because hes really been meaning to do that.' 'Muellers gonna just do a quick rewatch of Russian Doll start to finish & then its DOWN TO BUSINESS,' writer Rachel Klein tweeted. Others joked more about what Mueller would be up to with all of his anticipated free time. Others joked more about what Mueller would be up to with all of his anticipated free time. 'Mueller getting him to a DVR backlogged with two years' worth of Real Housewives episodes,' wrote New York Times culture reporter Dave Itzkoff Senior editor at The Daily Beast Erin Gloria Ryan tweeted about the real crime here. 'Mueller is such a drama queen, trying to steal the glory of national puppy day for himself,' she wrote 'Mueller getting him to a DVR backlogged with two years' worth of Real Housewives episodes,' wrote New York Times culture reporter Dave Itzkoff. Senior editor at The Daily Beast Erin Gloria Ryan tweeted about the real crime here. 'Mueller is such a drama queen, trying to steal the glory of national puppy day for himself,' she wrote. For now, Mueller has not recommended any new criminal indictments. Only time will tell whether President Donald Trump will be implicated. Trump is pictured on the South Lawn of the White House on Friday The Duke of Northumberlands daughter Lady Melissa Percy was devastated when her marriage to Princess Charlottes godfather, Thomas van Straubenzee, broke down after less than three years. Now Missy whose family home, Alnwick Castle, doubles as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films has a wizard new lover. He is American hedge fund tycoon Remy Trafelet, 48, who is 17 years her senior. Lady Melissa Percy (left) is now in a relationship with Remy Trafelet (centre right). Trafelet Lara Schmidt Trafelet (left of Remy) is locked in a bitter divorce battle with Remy The Alnwick Castle (pictured above) is most famously known as the Hogwarts Castle His reputed 200 million fortune was the subject of a bitter battle when he divorced his Manhattan socialite wife, Lara Schmidt Trafelet, in 2017. Missy reveals that she has been courted by Trafelet for the past two years. She explains: It all sort of happened at the right time and we have so much in common. Im super-happy. Trafelets wife, 49, with whom he has three children, was so enraged by their break-up that she reportedly instructed forensic accountants to kick him between his legs and bring him to his knees. Lady Melissa Percy (left) on her wedding day with her ex Thomas van Straubenzee. Their marriage broke down after less than three years Lady Melissa Percy's family home is Alnwick Castle (pictured above) which doubles as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films Melissa Percy (left) arrived at her wedding with her father the Duke of Northumberland (right) Lady Melissa, whose family also own Syon House in West London, is now living with Trafelet in New York. He should have little trouble keeping her in the style to which shes accustomed. He and his ex-wife owned a grouse-shooting estate in Scotland and a quail farm in Georgia, as well as four other properties including an 11.3 million flat in Park Avenue and a 7.6 million Long Island summer home. They also enjoyed the services of a personal trainer, chauffeur, assistant, and private chef. Plus, a private jet for ultra-luxury vacations that cost as much as 300,000 in a single year. Lady Melissa's ex, Thomas van Straubenzee, is the godfather to Princess Charlotte (pictured above) Lady Melissa's family also owns Syon House in West London (pictured above) The smart set's talking about...Beautiful brainbox Olympia Campbell Olympia Campbell (pictured above) says she hopes to work in 'policy, the development industry, or politics' Genial Old Etonian businessman Roddy Campbell once joked that he didnt know why he had spent 250,000 educating his two daughters, Edie and Olympia, at top private schools when they had gone on to become models. So hell be delighted to learn that Mulberry mannequin Olympia, 23, is celebrating after winning funding to study for a PhD in Biosocial Research at University College London. Olympia must be this countrys cleverest model, gushes a pal. Educated at 19,000-per-year City of London School for Girls, Olympia hopes to end up working in policy, the development industry or politics. Raised by Roddy and his ex-wife, architect Sophie Hicks, Olympia studied Human Sciences at UCL, graduating last year. She and Burberry model Edie, 28, do enjoy letting their hair down, too. They once hosted a joint birthday party where the dress code was Absolute Filth. Their father entered into the spirit, slipping into a ladys black swimsuit, bunny ears and fishnets. India Hicks and a stitch in time for mum's 90th Princess Diana's bridesmaid India Hicks has written amusingly about how she had stockpiled all the birthday presents from her godfather, Prince Charles. And it seems shes been doing the same with her mums old dresses. The designer used the 90th birthday party of her mother, Lady Pamela Hicks, to give one of her society frocks an airing. India Hicks (left) has been raiding her mother's old wardrobe and was photographed wearing a floral dress. Lady Pamela (right) in the dress which she accesorised with a brooch It has not seen the light of day for 30 years, India declares. We shook off the dust, removed the neck, adjusted the length and cinched the waist. Lady Pamela, daughter of the 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma, recognised it immediately. She still has a beady eye, adds India. HM heads back to school for Sophie The Queen is looking forward to a real family day of engagements next Thursday. Not only is she making an official visit to art dealers Hauser & Wirth, of which her granddaughter Princess Eugenie is director, but shes also visiting a school close to the heart of her favourite daughter-in-law, the Countess of Wessex. The Queen is heading to a school which is said to be close to the heart of Sophie, Countess of Wessex (pictured above) She has agreed to open a new music faculty at Kings Bruton school, alma mater of Sophies father, Christopher Rhys-Jones. Hes helped organise the event. The Queen has become very close to Chris ever since his wife died 13 years ago, a friend tells me. He often escorts her to functions and she invites him to dinners to meet her single ladies-in-waiting. (Very) modern manners Oscar winner Sir Ben Kingsley has always denied insisting that people use his title. But producers demand underlings refer to him as Sir Ben nevertheless, according to distinguished film editor Tariq Anwar. At the start of production, like all the heads of department, I was given a memo sent to all cast and crew, that he was to be addressed as Sir Ben Kingsley, says Anwar, who worked with him on the 2005 film Mrs Harris. It was disappointing to think those rumours about him were true. There was much rolling of eyes behind his back on set but Im sure that he was blithely unaware of that. An American artist has written a new cookbook which includes recipes on how to cook feral cats, cane toads and snake jerky. Kirsha Kaechele, who lives in Tasmania, curated Eat the Problem, which will go on display at Mona and includes a recipe for a boar's eye Bloody Mary and myna bird parfait. Inspired by global cuisines, the book focuses on turning Australia's biggest pests into delicious meals. Ms Kaechele said: 'This book is a surreal and appetising way to reimagine what we think of as invasive. It celebrates an abundance of pests, and the art of transforming sh*t into gold'. 'Eat the Problem solves multiple problems at once with stylish and delicious results.' Sweet and sour cane toad legs (pictured) by David McMahon are featured in the artwork In a new Museum of New and Old Art (MONA) cookbook focusing on sustainability, Tasmania-based Californian Kirsha Kaechele has shared ways to turn cane toads, foxes and grasshoppers into delicious meals Pheasant with onion cream, wild fennel and pollen (pictured) by David Moyle is featured in the artwork Kirsha Kaechele, who lives in Tasmania, curated Eat the Problem, which will go on display at Mona 'It's an aesthetic object, it's a total indulgence. I do not see this book as contributing to society. I mean, it has a moral message, presented in a fun way. It glamourises eating sustainably,' Ms Kaechele told the Sydney Morning Herald. The 544-page book is colour-coded based on species, and works through recipes ranging from sweet and sour cane toad legs, whole roasted camel, fox tikka masala, fried grasshopper and 'pussycat Tasmanian style'. The book will be released on Monday and costs $277.77, which will go towards Ms Kaechele's 24 Carrot healthy eating program in Hobart primary schools. The book also features works from some of the world's most recognised and celebrated artists. Starfish on a stick by Kirsha Kaechele and Vince Trim (left) and River trout no youzuri by Tobias Fiegal and Daniel Jackson (right) This artistic spread featured in the cook book is one of many that line the 544-page artwork An American artist who explores the relationship between food, art and culture is targeting invasive species by eating them Rabbit saddle, potatoes, cauliflower comte and turnips by Vince Trim (pictured) Works from Pablo Picasso, Marina Abramovic, and Australia's Mike Parr all feature in the book, alongside recipes from celebrated chefs. Along with meditations on eating, destroying, or transforming invasive species into art, Eat The Problem includes recipes for life in the form of poetry, essays and interviews, a spokeswoman from Mona told Daily Mail Australia. Other features in the book are ways to 'wear the enemy', and Ms Kaechele herself swears by cane toad leather. Ms Kauchele said the length of her newest work wasn't intended, but she wanted to make sure she didn't ignore any interesting species. 'Each chapter is dedicated to a particular invasive species, so I really wanted to include anything interesting about those species, and I didn't want to miss any of the good species,' she said. Wild boar's eye Bloody Mary by Adam Turner (pictured) is the drink of choice to wash down the food This artistic spread featured in the cook book is one of many that line the 544-page artwork Ms Kaechele is the wife of David Walsh, the founder of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart Kirsha Kaechele, who lives in Tasmania, curated Eat the Problem, which will go on display at Mona 'You can't miss humans (there is an anthropologically sourced recipe for cooking humans), you can't miss cats, you can't miss the brown tree snake, so it just kept going.' A series of immersive feasts will be held in April at MONA in celebration of the books release, ranging from $111.11 to $666.66 for a nine-course extravaganza. The events will coincide with the art gallery's famed winter solstice celebration Dark Mofo. The BBC plans to use tens of millions of pounds of licence fee payers cash to settle the tax bills of its stars. Its board members have discussed using the public funds to pay around two thirds of the money the presenters owe the taxman, in a bid to draw a line under their long battle with HM Revenue & Customs. Hundreds of BBC stars owe the taxman large sums because the broadcaster pressured them to set up personal services companies (PSCs) so they could be treated as freelances. The BBC plans to use licence fee payers' money to settle its length tax bill with HMRC Presenters were asked to set up personal service companies so that the BBC could avoid a lengthy tax bill. Christa Ackroyd, 61, former presenter of Look North, has been ordered to pay 420,000 in tax The arrangement enabled the BBC to save millions in National Insurance contributions, as well as the cost of sick pay, holidays, pension contributions and other staff entitlements. Presenters paid directly by the broadcaster have to pay income tax at a rate of up to 45 per cent, whereas PSCs have to pay corporation tax at 19 per cent. But it left many of its workers facing demands for unpaid tax, after HMRC ruled that they should never have classified themselves as self-employed. Some presenters have been left owing hundreds of thousands of pounds. The former Look North presenter Christa Ackroyd, 61, was ordered to pay 420,000 after losing a case against HMRC last February. A number of those affected are highly paid household names. It is not known if HMRC is pursuing Claudia Winkleman and Chris Evans, but both broadcasters have received part of their BBC pay via PSCs. However, thousands of others are small-time presenters who face having to sell their homes to settle their bills. The broadcaster spent years denying responsibility for the debacle, and only recently apologised to its workers for pushing them into the PSCs. The BBC now plans to use licence fee funds to settle the matter. It will encourage workers who have strong cases against HMRC to fight them in court, with the reassurance that the BBC will pick up most of their tax bill if they fail. The broadcaster will also compensate workers who do not have a strong case against HMRC. Lorraine Kelly won a tax case against HMRC this week, making BBC board members more confident that their stars could be successful in challenging the large tax bill However, board members are eager that the affected workers try to fight HMRC where possible and feel more confident that they could be successful following Lorraine Kellys legal victory against HMRC this week. The ITV host avoided a 1.2million tax bill when a court ruled that she was a freelancer. Earlier this week, BBC board members informally agreed a mechanism whereby the broadcaster would take responsibility for the money its workers would owe the taxman if they had set up a basic PSC. The broadcaster plans to pay the difference between the tax its presenters would have paid if they had remained on staff, and the amount they would have paid in corporation tax. But the proposed settlement would not compensate them for any extra tax they owe because they tried to save more by hiring family members or writing off tax against expenses. The development will be a relief to many of the workers affected by PSCs but some insist the BBC should settle the whole bill, not just two thirds of it. The BBC said: Were working with HMRC and our presenters to try to resolve these issues. Labour will have no future if it does not expel a hard-Left ally of John McDonnell over alleged anti-Semitism next week, MPs have warned. The shadow chancellor defended Jackie Walker last month, even though she has been suspended twice for making comments offensive to Jewish people. He pledged to take up her case with Jeremy Corbyn and party general secretary Jennie Formby in an apparent contravention of Labours claim that the leadership is not involved in disciplinary cases. Jackie Walker (file image) - who claimed the Jews were the 'chief financiers' of the slave trade -has already been suspended twice from the Labour party after making offensive comments to Jewish people John McDonnell has pledged to take up her case with Jeremy Corbyn and party general secretary Jennie Formby Miss Walker was suspended in 2016 and then let back into the party despite claiming that Jews were chief financiers of the slave trade. She was suspended a second time later that year for questioning the need for security at Jewish schools and saying that Holocaust Memorial Day was too limited in scope. She was also removed from her position as vice-chairman of Momentum. Her case will finally come before Labours disciplinary panel on Tuesday after two-and-a-half years of delay. Backbenchers said the party must ensure she is expelled if Labour is to have any chance of proving it is not institutionally anti-Semitic. Dame Margaret Hodge said: Its extraordinary that it has taken so long to bring her to an expulsion hearing. Tough action must be taken but one expulsion will not solve a far deeper cultural problem that has infected the party. Ian Austin, who resigned from Labour last month to sit as an independent, added: Why is Jackie Walker still in the Labour Party after all this time? Theyve got to start booting these people out. Dame Margaret Hodge said it was 'extraordinary' that it had taken so long to bring an expulsion hearing for her Euan Phillips, from the group Labour Against Anti-Semitism, said: If Ms Walker is expelled, as she should be, we can expect an explosion of outrage across the Labour membership itself an indication of how ingrained anti-Semitism has become. Mr McDonnell is a longstanding friend of Miss Walker, and both sit on the hard-Left Labour Representation Committee. Last month he was recorded saying he would take up her case with the leadership, although it is thought he never did so. A Labour spokesman said: We cant comment on individual cases. A Britain's Got Talent contestant that had been due to feature on next month's show has taken his own life, his devastated family have revealed. Jack Saunders, 25, was part of a five-man dance troupe, Green Force Five, that made it through to the semi-finals of the new series. But before the live-shows could start later this year, the tragic dancer is reported to have taken his life in the early hours of Sunday morning, according to The Mirror. Jack Saunders (pictured with Cheryl Cole), 25, was part of a five-man dance troupe, Green Force Five, that made it through to the semi-finals of the new series. Mr Saunders already had a successful dancing career, prior to his audition on Britain's Got Talent. He had traveled to countries including Las Vegas, India and Barcelona to perform At just 18-years-of-age, Mr Saunders (pictured) was the youngest paid dancer to perform at the London Olympics ceremony, before also that year reaching the Got to Dance finals with Unity UK The news has left family and staff on the show devastated, with bosses now deciding whether to air the audition or scrap it entirely. Jack's mother, Sandra, 53, paid a moving tribute to the promising young dancer from the family home in Uxbridge, west London. She told The Mirror: 'We don't know why he did it, he didn't leave a note. He did not have depression. 'Suicide can happen to anyone at any time. People can't believe Jack is gone. We are the same. 'I want people to know that this can happen to any family. There is no stereotype it doesn't have to be a manic depressive who has shown signs of mental health problems.' Jack's mother, Sandra, 53, paid a moving tribute to the promising young dancer from the family home in Uxbridge, west London (Mr Saunders is pictured with Niall Horan) His mother described him as 'a kind soul', saying he was 'always focused on others to make sure they were OK' (Mr Saunders is pictured) Jack already had a successful dancing career, prior to his audition on Britain's Got Talent. He had traveled to countries including Las Vegas, India and Barcelona to perform. And at just 18-years-of-age was the youngest paid dancer to perform at the London Olympics ceremony, before also that year reaching the Got to Dance finals with Unity UK. His mother described him as 'a kind soul', saying he was 'always focused on others to make sure they were OK'. His sister, Kayla Williams, 28, said: 'Suicide awareness is getting better but there is still a bit of a stigma, but it can happen to anyone. 'The message we want to share about Jack's death is how important it is to talk to people, and tell people how great they are. A spokesman for Britain's Got Talent said: 'Our thoughts and condolences are with Jack's family and friends during this difficult and devastating time.' Love Island star Mike Thalassitis (pictured left and right) was found dead in the woods near his hometown in London on Friday morning News of his death comes soon after it was revealed that Love Island contestant Mike Thalassitis had taken his own life, found hanged in a park by his childhood home aged 26. It had been suggested that Mike was at the time struggling to come to terms with the death of his grandmother and had recently been dealing with debt. The reality TV star had moved in with the 94-year-old after her deteriorating health meant she needed a full time carer. And soon after news of his death emerged, former Love Island contestant Montana Brown said that Thalassitis had been 'in a dark place' recently, wishing she had done more to help. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article then you can call the Samaritans on 116 123, alternatively you can visit the website at by clicking here. Theresa Mays Brexit deal suffered a potentially fatal blow last night after she wrote to MPs admitting she might not seek a third vote in Parliament next week if she does not think it will pass. Her letter followed a decision by the DUP to rule out support for her deal and warnings from ministers that the Prime Minister could be gone within days if she presses ahead with a new plan for MPs to vote on alternative options, including a soft Brexit or second referendum. Mrs May wrote to MPs: If it appears there is not sufficient support to bring the deal back next week, or the House rejects it again, we can ask for another extension before April 12 but that will involve holding European Parliament elections. Before Theresa Mays letter was released, Whitehall sources said the Commons would be given seven options to vote on next week, including remaining in the EUs customs union, a second referendum, No Deal or cancelling Brexit altogether As the Prime Ministers crisis deepened, with the Cabinet at war over the best way forward, Nigel Dodds, the DUPs Westminster leader, accused Mrs May of an inexcusable failure to secure changes from Brussels and criticised her for being far too willing to capitulate. The DUPs dramatic move came as: Pro-Brexit Tories demanded that Mrs May stand down, while a member of her Cabinet criticised her television address to the nation on Wednesday night in which she blamed MPs for Brexit delays; EU leaders taunted Britain by warning it faces a choice between No Deal and a softer Norway-style Brexit if the PMs deal is rejected; Mrs May told Boris Johnson she would not step aside to help resolve the impasse at a meeting on Tuesday, it was claimed; Nigel Farage said he will take over leadership of the new Brexit Party after its former leader resigned over anti-Islam tweets; A leaked Cabinet Office document revealed that Whitehalls doomsday scenario for dealing with a No Deal Brexit could collapse due to unforeseen crises. Before Mrs Mays letter was released, Whitehall sources said the Commons would be given seven options to vote on next week, including remaining in the EUs customs union, a second referendum, No Deal or cancelling Brexit altogether. The official proposal to hold these so-called indicative votes triggered a fierce Tory backlash.One minister said last night: If MPs push through a soft Brexit it will be game over. She will not survive. Mrs May's letter followed a decision by the DUP (pictured DUP MEP Dianne Dodds, leader Arlene Foster and Deputy Leader Nigel Dodds) to rule out support for her deal and warnings from ministers that the Prime Minister could be gone within days if she presses ahead with a new plan for MPs to vote on alternative options, including a soft Brexit or second referendum Eurosceptics accused Mrs May of declaring open war on her own backbenchers. Former Brexit minister Steve Baker said: National humiliation is imminent through these indicative votes. The wrong Conservatives have the levers of power. Tory MP Marcus Fysh said it was the most ludicrous, childish and unrealistic idea I have ever seen. He added: We were elected on a manifesto to leave the customs union and single market. To be doing this at the last minute is just absurd. It is quite astonishing that the Government should even consider it. It would be the most monumentally stupid course of action in modern times by any government of any kind, banana republic or otherwise. As the Prime Ministers crisis deepened, with the Cabinet at war over the best way forward, Nigel Dodds, the DUPs Westminster leader, accused Mrs May of an inexcusable failure to secure changes from Brussels and criticised her for being far too willing to capitulate' Michael Fabricant, the Tory MP for Lichfield, said: If this is true, has Theresa May now decided to declare open war on all her backbenchers following her ill-advised statement last Wednesday night? Business Secretary Greg Clark last night confirmed the plans to offer indicative votes. But he argued that if ministers did not do this voluntarily they would be forced to anyway by a cross-party backbench amendment tabled by Labours Yvette Cooper, Tory Sir Oliver Letwin and others, which will be debated on Monday and is widely expected to pass. Mr Clark told the BBC: If it [Mrs Mays deal] doesnt get passed then the Government will facilitate... the ability for Parliament to express a majority of what it would approve. I think that is the right step. Asked if that meant the PM would give MPs indicative votes, he said: Yes. David Lidington, Mrs Mays de facto deputy, met opposition leaders yesterday to discuss how the votes could work. An opposition source said: He told us they are looking at whether to give MPs the chance to pick just one option each, the opportunity to rank them in order of preference, or a simple for or against vote on each one. In the Commons, Brexit Minister Kwasi Kwarteng said if indicative votes were to take place it would be surprising if Conservative MPs were not given the freedom to vote according to their personal views. Mrs May had planned to bring back her Brexit deal to the Commons next week for a third attempt to get it passed. Downing Street had been hopeful that if it got the DUPs 10 MPs on board, then a number of Eurosceptic Tory rebels would follow. But in a statement last night, Mr Dodds said nothing has changed on the deal, indicating the party would vote against it for a third time. The Prime Minister missed an opportunity at the EU Council to put forward proposals which could have improved the prospects of an acceptable withdrawal agreement and help unite the country, he said. That failure is all the more inexcusable given the clear divisions and arguments which became evident amongst EU member states when faced with outcomes they dont like. Nothing has changed as far as the withdrawal agreement is concerned. We will not accept any deal which poses a long-term risk to the constitutional and economic integrity of the United Kingdom.' A swim school that allowed an alleged child molester to keep his job after complaints he touched girls inappropriately has vowed to 'introduce additional safety measures'. Mosman Swim Centre, on Sydney's north shore, will improve their child safety policy to go 'over and above' industry practice. Swimming teacher Kyle Daniels, 20, is accused of molesting eight children - including two sisters aged six and eight. He was hit with seven further Apprehended Violence Orders on Friday. Accused swimming teacher Kyle Daniels, 20, was hit with seven Apprehended Violence Orders on Friday The South African-born student was hit with 31 charges of child sexual abuse relating to eight girls under the age of 10, who he was teaching to swim. They include eight counts of sexual intercourse with a child under 10, six counts of intentionally sexually touch child under 10, and 14 counts of indecent assault person under 16 years of age, The Daily Telegraph reported. Daniels was given a 'cuddle ban' and told not to hold children close to the groin or chest and keep his hands above water following complaints about his conduct last June, the court heard on Wednesday. Mosman Swim Centre general manager Mike Conna, a father of two young children from Balgowlah, said 'safety is our priority'. Former private schoolboy Kyle Daniels (pictured with his father James) allegedly assaulted eight girls while he was teaching them at Mosman Swim Centre in Sydney 'In light of these horrific claims involving a former instructor at the centre, we are introducing additional safety measures that go over and beyond industry practice, so parents can be assured children are as safe as possible,' he said. Mosman swim staff take Child Protection and Safety training from governing body Swimming Australia. The swim centre is run by Ezyswim, a business that also runs Lindfield and Bankstown swimming schools. Daniels appeared briefly via video link wearing a black T-shirt. He was granted bail at a hearing on Wednesday to continue studying at Sydney University (court sketch pictured) As part of the standard terms of the AVOs, Daniels must not 'assault, threaten or intimidate' the protected persons and must not go near their school. Daniels was not in court on Friday when the AVOs were issued. He was granted strict bail at a hearing on Wednesday whereby he must live at his parents' home and report to police daily. Police said Daniels' alleged crimes took place during swimming lessons at the pool between June 2018 and March 2019. A Catholic priest is believed to have killed himself after he was accused of sexually abusing a young girl. Father Joseph Tran, 49, was found dead by police on Thursday, hours after officers launched an investigation into the allegations. He was accused of sexually abusing a young girl, now 13 years old, over a period of several years. The child's mother is said to have confronted Father Joseph this week after the accusations surfaced, the West Australian reported. Father Joseph Tran, 49, was accused of sexually abusing a young girl (not pictured), now 13 years old, over a period of several years Father Joseph was a well-known and popular priest who worked as a chaplain in a number of Perth schools, according to The West Australian. The publication also said he had been a priest for 15 years at Armadale's St Francis Xavier at Whitfords Parish. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Catholic Education Western Australia and Armadale's St Francis Xavier for comment. For confidential support call the Lifeline 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14. Advertisement Donald Trump and the First Lady of the United States didn't appear to be fazed after Robert Mueller handed over his report on the president's Russia connections Friday. POTUS and Melania Trump were grinning from ear-to-ear as they posed for a photo opportunity with Caribbean leaders in Florida as the world waited for a reaction to the probe being officially complete. Standing on the steps of Trump's beloved vacation spot, spectators waited for some indication the Special Counsel news may have stirred them. Scroll down for videos Melania and Donald Trump hosted Caribbean leaders at Mar-a-Lago, Florida on Friday The president and First Lady appeared on the same day Robert Mueller handed in his report on possible Trump collusion election with Russia While her husband is under intense scrutiny, all eyes were on Melania during the photo call. Melania wore a linen silk dress from UK brand LK Bennett featuring distracting bold orange, white and black Aztec-inspired prints. The cinched-in-at-the-waist 'Andrea' round-neck occasion dress is currently on sale for $282.50, down from $565. Melania paired the midi-length half price frock with Christian Louboutin heels. The First Lady had a breezy attitude as she took to social media to speak about her day with Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Haiti President Jovenel Moise, Saint Lucia's Prime Minister Allen Michael Chastanet, Dominican Republic President Danilo Medina, and Bahamas Prime Minister Hubert Minnis. 'Enjoyed hosting the leaders & their delegations,' she posted on Twitter about the day at West Palm Beach. They posed with leaders from Jamaica, Haiti, Saint Lucia, Dominican Republic and Bahamas The White House residents said they 'enjoyed' and were 'honored' hosting Caribbean leaders Trump (3rd left) and Melania (center) hosted (left to right) Allen Michael Chastanet, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia; Danilo Medina SAnchez, President of the Dominican Republic; Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica; Jovenel MoAse, President of the Republic of Haiti; and Hubert A. Minnis, Prime Minister of the Bahamas Earlier Trump had shared a video on Twitter from inside his meeting. Making no mention of the Mueller report, he posted: 'Today in Florida, @FLOTUS and I were honored to welcome and meet with leaders from the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia!' He arrived on Air Force One at the Palm Beach International Airport waving to supporters. Late on Friday Trump's attorney Rudy Giuliani told Fox News: 'This marks the end of the Russia investigation. We await a disclosure of the facts. We are confident that there is no finding of collusion by the president and this underscores what the president has been saying from the beginning - that he did nothing wrong.' FLOTUS wore distracting dress from UK brand LK Bennett among a sea of men in suits Trump shakes the hand of Allen Michael Chastanet, the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia US President Trump shakes the hand of Hubert A. Minnis, the Prime Minister of the Bahamas The First Lady posted on Twitter as the world learned Robert Mueller had completed his probe Trump turned attention to a staged photo opportunity on the day all eyes were on Russia probe The Robert Mueller-led probe was over Friday. Mueller is pictured arriving at his Washington DC office Thursday night Barr said in a letter to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y.; Ranking Member Doug Collins, R-Ga.; Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.; and Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., that he 'may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend'. 'Separately, I intend to consult with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Special Counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with law, including the Special Counsel regulations, and the Department's long-standing practices and policies,' he added Friday. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a joint statement: 'It is imperative for Mr. Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress. 'Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public.' Attorney General William Barr (center) arrives at home in McLean, Virginia on Friday evening Trump's meeting took place on the day it emerged Congress could be briefed on Mueller's report as soon as this weekend But Trump's team said they were confident the findings would show there was no collusion A lord who led a campaign to stop fracking in his village has been branded a hypocrite after revealing plans to mine millions of tons of sand from a nearby beauty spot. Lord Cowdray, owner of the 16,500-acre Cowdray Park Polo Club and estate, has caused outrage by applying to excavate across a vast area in the South Downs National Park. It comes six years after he fought fracking plans on his doorstep in the village of Fernhurst, West Sussex. Lord Cowdray, 64, has proposed to mine near the village of Bepton, near Midhurst. Locals say it will cause untold disruption and could pollute the nearby River Rother. The land is a recognised wildlife corridor, and home to endangered nightjar birds, of which there are just 4,600 left in the country. Pictured with his wife Marina At the time, he said: Its hardly what people expect when they come to a national park to see flares and nodding donkeys. But now Lord Cowdrays lucrative project to open two giant sand mines on land he owns five miles down the road is being condemned by residents, who say it will destroy a unique area teeming with wildlife. Lord Cowdray, 64, has proposed to mine near the village of Bepton, near Midhurst. Locals say it will cause untold disruption and could pollute the nearby River Rother. The land is a recognised wildlife corridor, and home to endangered nightjar birds, of which there are just 4,600 left in the country. Mother-of-three Katherine Steele, who has lived in Bepton for 15 years, is aghast at Lord Cowdrays project. Severals Woods in the South Downs where Lord Cowdray applied to excavate across a 'vast area' in the National Park The beauty therapist, who walks daily with her children on the land, said: The contractors have said this will be a positive thing for the community, which is crazy. Theres nothing positive about digging into the South Downs National Park. A big thing about this is how hypocritical Lord Cowdray is. He completely opposed fracking on his doorstep and for very much the same reasons we are opposing this quarry plan. Six years after he fought fracking plans on his doorstep in the village of Fernhurst, West Sussex Lord Cowdray wants to open 'two giant sand mines' Mrs Steele, 43, who lives about 300 yards from the proposed site, added: The noise would be unbearable, Im sure. And health-wise, I dont want my children growing up breathing in debris and particles from a quarry. Loppy Gibson, 49, who bought a five-bedroom house in the centre of the proposed site with her husband Alex in September last year, said the plans were a nightmare. The mother of three added: It is completely mad. Our house is like a bulls-eye in the middle of the site. It would be devastating for us if these plans go ahead. The noise and lorries going up and down will be terrible. I dont see how its going to work our road is so narrow, they might have to build a new road to access the site. Its just outrageous. This is devastating for us we moved from East Sussex to start a new life, we have three children and we wanted to raise them in the countryside. In 2013, Lord Cowdray, the major shareholder of FTSE 100 company Pearson plc, was vocal in his opposition to Celtique Energies plans to drill for oil and gas in Fernhurst. He refused permission for Celtique to lease his land for exploration, saying: If they find the reserves they are looking for, naturally they will go on to frack to extract the gas. I dont support fracking at all. A public consultation on Lord Cowdrays sand mining application ended last Monday, and West Sussex Council is expected to make its decision known imminently. A spokesman for Lord Cowdray said: While the perception of mineral extraction is emotive, the Cowdray Estate have deliberately partnered with a firm [Raymond Brown Quarry Products Ltd] who demonstrate a track record of both proactive engagement with the community and responsibility and respect for the environment and landscape. Three months of No Deal chaos are predicted in a secret Cabinet dossier, as Theresa May faces an embarrassing leak ahead of next week's third meaningful vote. Operation Yellowhammer reportedly sets out Whitehall's plans for how ministers will meet at 7am for a sitrep (situation report) to tackle crucial risk areas. Whitehall will outline briefings for the Brexit war room including details on national security, as well as food and water supplies. Civil servants could be expected to work alongside the executive branch for up to 12 weeks as they provide expertise throughout the night until 5.30am every day. The details of the government's Operation Yellowhammer have been revealed as Theresa May threatens the European bloc with leaving without a deal (pictured handing over a ministerial box in January) The Cabinet Office's secret Operation Yellowhammer dossier sets out the command structure for the government in the event of no deal The Operation Yellowhammer dossier sets out 12 'risk areas' which range from law and order to the supply of food and water The dossier seen by the Guardian outlines 12 hazards, including electricity and gas supplies, law and order, impacts to banking and national security both domestically and in overseas territories. What does yellowhammer mean and how did civil servants come up with the name? Yellowhammer is the code name for the work for planning a no deal Brexit carried out by the Civil Contingencies Secretariat (CCS). It takes its name from a small yellow bird which lives across the UK. They forage for seeds to eat, breed in May and enjoy singing. Male yellowhammers learn their songs from their fathers, and over the course of time regional dialects have developed. In ancient legend the birds were linked to the devil - the intricate patterns on their eggs were said to conceal an evil message. The Yellowhammer operation works across all Whitehall departments to ensure the UK is able to weather the shock of crashing out of the Brussels bloc. The word itself is randomly generated by a computer. The CCS was established in 2011 and works on projects to ensure the UK can handle potentially disruptive change. Projects similar to Yellowhammer have been carried out to prepare for the 2012 Olympics and the Champions League final. Advertisement The news comes as the Ministry of Defence makes preparations for a nuclear-proof bunker beneath Whitehall to manage the military in the event of a no deal Brexit. Some 3,500 troops are being put on stand-by to deal with the apparent threat posed by crashing out of Europe. The Yellowhammer papers warn the command and control structure set out by the government could fail if 'too many decisions are unnecessarily escalated to the top levels that could have reasonably been dealt with internally.' It also concedes there are 'likely to be unforeseen issues and impacts' of a no deal Brexit that they have been unable to predict. The document obtained by the Guardian states: 'Under the planning assumptions it is assumed that the command, control and coordination arrangements might last, during the critical phase, for a minimum of 12 weeks and might require 24/7 working for all involved departments and agencies.' 'Some impacts may be felt for up to 24 weeks.' The most important decisions in response to any potential crisis will be taken by the little-known European Union exit and trade (preparedness) subcommittee. The committee was set up in January, and is chaired by Theresa May, the Guardian reported. It will have powers to order emergency measures, including mobilising the military, and getting rid of regulations if necessary, the document suggests. It added: 'The committee will be available to take an overview of the situation and make any relevant decisions including on the following areas but not limited to legislation, identifying funding opportunities, allocation of national level resources (such as military, law enforcement or civil service resources, direction of government bodies and relaxation of regulations required at the ministerial level.' A flow chart sets out the routine for the day, with business starting at 7am and running to 5.30am the following day Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay told Cabinet on Tuesday that Operation Yellowhammer would be stood up on March 25 Yellowhammer is the civil contingencies wing of No Deal and involves putting 3,500 troops on standby, booking space on emergency ferries for NHS drugs and preparing for miles of lorry queues out of Dover Troops are to be commanded out of the 'Pindar' nuclear bunker under the Ministry of Defence on Whitehall. The military part of the plan is dubbed Operation Redfold, Sky News reported earlier this week. Officials have been planning for No Deal for months and activated 320 other contingency plans before Christmas. It included a public information campaign telling citizens to prepare their own families. The new escalation comes with just under a week until exit is due to happen and with no deal agreed amid deadlock in Parliament. Cabinet Ministers were told on Tuesday Operation Yellowhammer would be stood up, the Daily Telegraph revealed. Brexit secretary, Stephen Barclay, told them in a letter: 'Operation Yellowhammer command and control structures will be enacted fully on 25 March unless a new exit date has been agreed between the UK and the EU.' He told departments to be ready to make 'necessary changes' to their contingency planning to account for an extension, and be ready to 're-programme' certain measures so that they could instead be activated before the new exit date. Generous Britons raised an astonishing 8 million on the first day of the Cyclone Idai appeal but more is needed to prevent a humanitarian disaster, charities say. Half a million people are at dire risk of disease as receding floodwaters reveal the horrors of bodies and ruined homes. A week after Cyclone Idai smashed into the coast of Mozambique, UK aid is beginning to reach stricken families who have lost everything. The British public has responded magnificently to the appeal launched on Thursday by the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), an umbrella group of 14 aid agencies. So far the UK has sent 7,500 shelter kits and 100 family tents to Mozambique. Tomorrow, a plane carrying forklift trucks and other equipment will fly to the region They put in 6 million and the Government matched pound-for-pound the first 2 million taking the first-day total to 8 million. The Queen and Prince Charles were among those to give money. Now the Treasury has agreed to match a further 2 million, meaning the next donors to pledge cash will see their contributions doubled. So far the UK has sent 7,500 shelter kits and 100 family tents to Mozambique. Tomorrow, a plane carrying forklift trucks and other equipment will fly to the region. It is feared thousands may have perished when the 105mph tropical storm lashed Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe, sweeping floodwaters 30 miles inland and turning homes, villages and farmland into squalid lakes. Some 2.6 million survivors urgently need help. They include 3,000 found sheltering on the roof of a school that has just six toilets. A week after Cyclone Idai smashed into the coast of Mozambique, UK aid is beginning to reach stricken families who have lost everything DEC chief executive Saleh Saeed said: We are extremely grateful for the huge generosity of everyone in the UK who has donated. The situation across Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe remains desperate, with thousands still to be brought to safety, and many more in need of food, medical attention, clean water and shelter. Every hour counts in the race to save lives. International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt said: We are only just beginning to see the true impact of this devastating cyclone. UK aid is now in the region worst hit by the cyclone. It is right that the UK, the biggest global donor and one of the first to respond to the crisis, does all it can to provide life-saving assistance to those desperately in need. There are thought to be 15,000 stranded people in bad shape, many of them on rooftops or stuck in trees, Mozambican minister Celso Correia said. The UN has warned that Cyclone Idai could prove to be the worst weather-related disaster ever to strike the Southern Hemisphere. Humanitarian agencies are desperately worried about the spread of malaria and cholera. We are running out of time, it is at a critical point here, Unicef chief Henrietta Fore said. Theres stagnant water, decomposing bodies, and lack of good hygiene and sanitation. We are worried about cholera, about malaria, because of the stagnant water. A staunch animal rights activist has slapped with a fine after storming a piggery and forcing it into lockdown. Jamila Riley appeared in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Friday where she pleaded guilty to charges relating to the animal right protest. The 22-year-old was part of a group of more than 100 people who targeted the Glasshouse Country Farms at Beerburrum in December last year. Jamila Riley (pictured) appeared in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Friday where she pleaded guilty to charges relating to the protest in December last year The activists can be seen donning T-shirts with the words 'meat the victims' About 30 protesters wearing black T-shirts that read 'meat the victims' stormed the piggery following claims of animal mistreatment, The Courier Mail reported. There were another 70 activists outside during the protest. Activist Leah Doellinger broadcast a live Facebook video from inside the piggery, during which she appears visibly upset and can be heard saying: 'We are in here with the victims and we're not leaving.' Ms Doellinger also said: 'This kind of resistance aims to oppose oppressive systems that have seen other animals be enslaved, exploited and harmed.' Riley (pictured left at a vegan market in the Sunshine Coast) is an animal activist who promotes 'animal justice'. About 30 protesters wearing black T-shirts that read 'meat the victims' stormed the piggery following claims of animal mistreatment The farm had been targeted by animal rights activists in April last year, however, there was no suggestion that Riley was part of the first protest. Riley was charged with unlawfully entering farmland but escaped without conviction. She was fined $150 and given a stern warning by Magistrate Rod Madsen. Dozens of British veterans who helped liberate France in the Second World War are still waiting for their medals. They were promised the Legion dHonneur Frances highest national award five years ago by then president Francois Hollande. He said all those who fought on D-Day on June 6, 1944 would be eligible, along with troops who had taken part in the battle to free his country from Nazi rule. D-Day veteran Ted Turner, 89, is awarded the 'Legion dHonneur' by Captain Francois Jean, the Consul Honoraire of France, on behalf of French President Francois Hollande, at a ceremony at the Royal Marines Museum in Southsea on March 23, 2015 French President Francois Hollande reads a note as he waits for guests aboard the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier off shore near Toulon, southern France, on August 15, 2014, as part of ceremonies marking the 70th anniversary of the Allied landing in Provence But it emerged last night that at least 75 Britons have still not received their gongs from the French. Today marks 75 days until the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The veterans are now well into their 90s and following years of delays it is feared they will not live to receive their awards. Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry, who uncovered the problem, said: The people of Britain and France owe a huge debt to the courage of those brave soldiers, sailors and airmen who led the D-Day landings 75 years ago, and liberated France over the following months. And it is right that France has recognised our surviving veterans with its highest national honour. So I hope the French authorities in particular, as well as our own Government, will pull out all the stops to ensure that these 75 confirmed veterans, and the 14 others whose applications are pending, receive the medals they are due before the 75th anniversary in June, and know that our two nations will remain ever grateful to them for the freedom they won for us. The scheme is handled jointly by the Ministry of Defence and the French embassy in London. Last night the MoD confirmed that 75 British veterans were still waiting to receive their Legion DHonneur. Of these, 68 are waiting for the French to process their applications. D-Day and Normandy 1944 British veterans watch a Rescue demonstration as a part of the 72th Anniversary of D-Day in Arromanches, Normandy, on Monday, June 6, 2016 There are another seven whose applications have been confirmed by the MoD but are waiting to have them sent to the French. A further 14 cases are being held by the MoD while officials seek more information. On the 70th Anniversary of D-Day, President Hollande announced that all British soldiers involved were eligible for the Legion dHonneur. But the scheme was hit with delays, because the MoD was not expecting the level of demand and ministers were forced to apologise for the hurt and upset caused. Some 5,500 of the medals have now been awarded at special ceremonies throughout the UK, often presided over by the French ambassador. French President Francois Hollande attends a ceremony to pay tribute to the French resistance during the Second World War at the Porte Avion Charles De Gaulle in Toulon on August 15, 2014 Among those who received his medal in 2016 was Michael Laine from Hayle in Cornwall. As a 19-year-old, he was a midshipman serving aboard HMS Ramillies during the Normandy landings, supporting airborne troops fighting to take Pegasus Bridge. At the time he said: Im very fond of France so this, in my twilight years, is something really very very special. The Mail is also backing a campaign to raise 9million for a memorial for the more than 22,000 British servicemen who fell in the liberation of France. Britain remains the only Allied country without a national memorial to its fallen in Normandy during the Second World War. A female soldier is to command British Army infantry troops for the first time. The soldier, who cannot be identified for security reasons, recently passed a tough course designed to select future leaders. She is now qualified to command a section of eight soldiers and is set to transfer into a regular infantry battalion, an Army source confirmed last night. She is the first woman to successfully complete the Section Commanders Battle Course, which lasts 16 weeks and includes eight weeks of live firing on ranges and a tactics phase. A woman is understood to have passed the Section Commanders Battle Course to the same standards as her male counterparts (file image) Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson announced in October that all roles in the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, including infantry units, were to be opened to women The course at the Infantry Battle School in the Brecon Beacons, South Wales, is designed to select the best Junior Non-Commissioned Officers to lead infantry soldiers in combat. Troops are tested in how to organise defensive positions and plan attacks, while being pushed to the limits of exhaustion on gruelling fitness tests. The woman is understood to have passed all the tests to the same standards as her male counterparts. Women officers have previously commanded troops on the front line in the Royal Engineers and Royal Artillery but not infantry soldiers, whose primary role is close combat on the battlefield. Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson announced in October that all roles in the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, including infantry units, were to be opened to women. But some former military figures remain sceptical about women in close-combat roles, saying that few have the same raw strength as men. Former Labour MP Chris Mullin arrived to give evidence at the inquest yesterday flanked by three burly security guards after receiving death threats. No details about the threats were revealed but they were said to have been made overnight before his appearance at the Birmingham Civil Justice Centre hearing. Mr Mullin, 71, who wrote a book about the wrongful convictions of the Birmingham Six, has previously named those he believes are responsible. Former Labour MP Chris Mullin arrived to give evidence at the inquest yesterday flanked by three burly security guards after receiving death threats The former MP for Sunderland South was also accompanied by G4S security guards as he left the inquest and will give evidence again next week. A missing parcel bomb posted without a proper address was found yesterday at a post office in Ireland. Police said the device appears identical to four sent to addresses and recovered in Britain. A group calling itself the IRA had claimed it sent five. The package found yesterday in Limerick had a return-to-sender note saying Irelan [sic] Tourism and officials confirmed it could be the missing bomb. Teaching children to reject homophobia can help stop terror attacks, according to a teacher at the centre of a gay rights row. Andrew Moffat, who is the assistant head of Parkfield primary school in Birmingham, said getting pupils to understand diversity and difference may help prevent further atrocities by those with extreme ideologies. Andrew Moffat MBE, assistant headteacher at Parkfield Community School in Saltley, Birmingham He said such lessons could stop attacks against minority communities, such as the mosque shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand, last week. He added: The rise of the far-Right is very worrying terrorist attacks. Look at Christchurch. Why did that happen? That happened because someone doesnt understand about diversity and difference. Someone is frightened of people who are different-skinned, a different religion. Mr Moffat has faced numerous protests because of his No Outsiders lessons, which he says he devised to teach about people from different backgrounds. But some Muslim parents said they were not appropriate because homosexuality is against their religion and their children were too young to learn about it. Mr Moffat, who has been shortlisted for an international teaching prize, has been forced to abandon the lessons. When asked whether he hoped a programme like No Outsiders could prevent future attacks, Mr Moffat said: When I wrote it, that wasnt my aim, but now I absolutely believe that. A grandmother who has had two near-fatal drug overdoses uses heroin up to eight times a day at an injecting room in Melbourne. Tanya Williams, 55, has been using heroin for six years and injects up to eight times a day at a Victorian-state-government funded injecting room in North Richmond. Ms Williams, who is homeless, is one of 2,300 registered clients who use the medically supervised injecting room that opened last year. A 57-year-old man shoots up in Richmond. Paramedics responded to 281 heroin overdoses in 2018 in the a notorious drug hotpot in North Richmond in inner Melbourne. 'I use the injecting room about four to five times a day and that's on a bad day,' Ms Williams said to 9News. 'On a good day I use it up to eight times.' Ms Williams' said her family introduced her to heroin to cope with the death of her daughter six years ago. 'I lost my daughter and it was very hard for me. I felt like I couldn't grieve and I had to kill the pain,' she said. A Victorian-state-government funded injecting room in North Richmond has been open since July 2018 gives 2,300 patients access to clean needles and monitoring The clinic is in Melbourne's notorious 'heroin rectangle' between Victoria Street, Elizabeth Street, Hoddle Street, and Lennox St - minutes from bars and restaurants. Half of the clinic's clients are homeless and sleep rough in Richmond or the Melbourne CBD. A quarter have recently been released from prison and many struggle with mental health issues. There were 199 overdoses in the drug hotspot in 2016, which rose to 281 in 2018, according to The Herald Sun. A state school known as the socialist Eton is living up to good old Left-wing principles. In this case, having spent 15,000 on luxury Farrow & Ball paint, it seems Holland Park School is showing that nothing is too good for the workers and, indeed, the pupils. Now it faces a Government investigation after it splashed out on the 62-a-pot brand while the national education budget is being squeezed. Holland Park School in west London (pictured) spent 15,000 on luxury Farrow & Ball paint and 6,000 over three years on designer Jo Malone candles The west London school also blew 6,000 over three years on designer Jo Malone candles, which cost up to 47 each, to create a relaxing and inspiring environment. Holland Park won its nickname by being the choice of rich socialists who avoid sending their children to private school because of their principles. The lavish spending by Holland Park which educated Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee and Tony Benns daughter Melissa was revealed by trade newspaper Schools Week following a Freedom of Information request. Academies minister Lord Agnew yesterday said: The public will rightly ask how this benefits pupils. We will look into this. We take the financial accountability of all schools very seriously and the department will take action when necessary. The school claimed that deluxe Farrow & Ball paint favoured by former prime minister David Cameron was high quality and hard-wearing and safe for children and the environment. The Harrow & Ball paint sells for around 62-a-pot. The school bought the paint while the national education budget is being squeezed But Matthew Clements-Wheeler, chairman of the Institute of School Business Leadership, said the spending looked luxurious and did not add to educational outcomes. A 2.5-litre tin of Farrow & Ball costs up to 62 on the B&Q website, while the same size of Dulux emulsion costs 20. The schools spending also included 80,268 on furnishings from Insider Dealings, a bespoke interior design store. A school spokesman said: We appreciate that school funding levels mean the same choices are not open to all government-funded schools, but we provide the best education and environment for our students within our own budgetary restraints. Through shrewd budgetary management, the school is able to report annually a healthy financial position. The school argued that Jo Malone candles also lasted much longer than many cheaper brands. Holland Park is rated outstanding by Ofsted. The Australian Conservatives have been left red-faced after releasing its pamphlet in the lead up to the New South Wales state election with a glaring spelling error. Its 'How-to-vote for common sense' pamphlet was released with the word 'district' spelled wrong. The pamphlet read 'Dictrict of North Shore' as part of its flyer. When the Australian Conservatives released its pamphlet in the lead up to the New South Wales state election they may not have double checked the spelling Social media users were quick to point out the error, with many expressing delight over the mistake. Many people took to Twitter to highlight the party's spelling as they head to the polling booths on Saturday. 'VERY funny typo from the Australian Conservatives ~ they dont deserve a single vote,' one person said on Twitter. 'Maybe thats how it was spelt in the Middle Ages, these guys can be a bit fussy duddy,' another person said. More than four million people are expected to vote at more than 2200 polling booths around the state in what has been tipped to be one of the closest in decades. Nearly 1.1 million people took advantage of early voting, with about one-in-five making their decision at pre-poll centres or via the post, internet or telephone. The cold case of three friends who were shot dead while holidaying through Australia has been reopened. On October 24, 1978, Karen Edwards, 23, Tim Thompson, 31, and 21-year-old Gordon Twaddle were found dead in bushland near Mount Isa, regional Queensland. They had all died from gunshot wounds. The trio were camping with a man they had recently met during a road trip throughout Australia and were with their dog, which was also found dumped in a tip. The case eventually went cold, but investigators from the Cold Case Investigation Team, with the assistance of Mount Isa Criminal Investigation Branch began a full review into the unsolved 40-year-homicide in 2018. On October 24, 1978, Karen Edwards (pictured) was found dead from a gunshot wound with two companions On October 24, 1978, Gordon Twaddle (pictured) was found dead from a gunshot wound with two companions On October 24, 1978, Tim Thomson (pictured) was found dead from a gunshot wound with two companions After extensive research, the team have decided to reopen the cold case and are now appealing for anybody with information to come forward. 'We are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have seen a male motorcyclist who befriended the group and joined them on their travels between Frewena and Mount Isa,' Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell said. The trio, along with their dog ' Tristie', were on a motorcycle trip when they were murdered. They had planned to travel down the east coast of Australia to join family in Melbourne for Christmas. The trio, along with their dog ' Tristie' (pictured), were on a motorcycle trip at the time of the tragedy Detective Senior Sergeant Kentwell said investigators were confident the renewed focus could lead to a breakthrough in the case. 'Despite 40 years passing, we remain committed to solving this case, bringing those responsible to justice and ultimately providing closure to the victims' families,' Detective Senior Sergeant Kentwell said. 'We have reviewed thousands of pieces of information provided to police over the years, however, today we are launching a fresh appeal to encourage new witnesses and those who have already spoken to police to make contact with us. All three victims were last seen alive leaving the Moondarra Caravan Park in Mount Isa in a brown and white Toyota Landcruiser long wheel drive with a man on the morning of Thursday, October 5. Police have revealed a picture of a vehicle of interest since reopening the cold case A $250,000 reward remains in place for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for their murders. Detective Senior Sergeant Kentwell said police were no longer investigating connections between the triple homicide to other murders publicised at the time. 'While we are keeping an open mind, we are no longer focusing on links to the murder of John Tzelaidis who was found deceased near Karratha in Western Australia a few months earlier,' she said. Mr Twaddle's brother, John, thanked the Australian Police for their renewed efforts. 'I feel that a result and conviction of the person (persons) responsible for these murders would bring some peace of mind and form some closure,' he said. Police have revealed a picture of a vehicle of interest since reopening the cold case Police also released a picture of Karen's watch since reopening the 40-year-old cold case 'But it will never take away the pain of knowing how their lives ended far too soon in such a horrible way.' Mr Thompson's brother, Tim, also shared memories with his brother, saying that he was invited on the trip. 'Tim invited me to go on the trip through the centre of Australia with him and Gordon and Karen but I was unable to go,' he said. 'Otherwise I would probably not be writing this letter.' 'My parents were shattered by the murders and I still feel a numbness that I don't think will ever disappear.' Anybody with information is urged to contact Policelink on 131 444. A Boeing 737 MAX 8 being built for Oman Air took off from Renton, Washington and taxied past a Boeing hanger after landing in Seattle Friday, amid the air ban of the plane model. Last week the US was the only nation to have not grounded the jets after a second plane crash in five months, this time in Ethiopia. But President Donald Trump finally announced MAX flights would be grounded pending investigation into the similarities between that incident and one in Indonesia last year, and now the planes are being tested on the West Coast. Scroll down for video A Boeing 737 MAX 8 being built for Oman Air takes off from Renton Municipal Airport, Friday A Boeing 737 MAX 8 being built for Oman Air taxis past a Boeing hanger after landing at Boeing Field, Friday Images showed the aircraft soaring into the sky at Renton Municipal Airport and landing at Boeing Field. Oman Air operated five of the aircraft before the Ethiopia Airlines crash. It announced the arrival of its fleet last January when it said it ordered 30 of the model. But the sultanate's carrier said in a tweet earlier this month about their actions following the Addis Ababa crash that killed 157 people and the Lion Air crash that took the lives of 189: 'Oman Air's primary and overriding consideration is the safety and well-being of its staff and guests.' As Oman Air planes tested out the 737 MAX 8s, Boeing said it is 'still building airplanes' and delivering the older 737 NG models. The 737 MAX 8s were being built at a rate of 57 per month. A new automatic flight control system could be behind the planes nosediving to their doom in October 2018 and March this year. One of two sensors that measures the angle of attack is pictured at bottom on a Boeing 737 MAX 8 airplane outside the company's factory on March 22, 2019 in Renton, Washington The sensor and the associated software are at the center of a safety investigation after two 737 MAX airliners crashed within five months of one another A worker on a lift works on a Boeing 737 Max 8 being built for SpiceJet at Renton Municipal Airport, Friday Boeing plans to have a solution for the MCAs in April but the Federal Aviation Administration has allowed the jets to be from Renton to Boeing Field, Moses Lake or other locations to be stored while waiting for delivery or flight approval. Works on Boeing 737 Max 8 being built for SpiceJet were also seen on Friday American Airlines pilots are to test Boeing Co's 737 MAX software fix on simulators this weekend, the pilots' union told Reuters on Thursday, a key step in restoring confidence in the jet after two fatal crashes. American is the second-largest U.S. operator of the MAX in the United States with 24 jets, behind Southwest Airlines with 34. Boeing 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. Pilots will have to complete FAA-approved computer-based training on the changes, followed by a mandatory test, and some pilots have said more may be needed. A Boeing 737 MAX 8 airliner takes off from Renton Municipal Airport near the company's factory, on Friday After Lion Air, American pilots met with Boeing executives in Fort Worth, Texas and demanded to know why the manufacturer had not told them about the new system, known as MCAS. They also questioned whether a 56-minute iPad course on the MAX had been sufficient. MAX simulator training is not required, partly because few simulators exist. Southwest and American expect to receive MAX simulators later this year. Meanwhile, Indonesia's flag carrier is seeking the cancellation of a multibillion dollar order for 49 of the manufacturer's 737 Max 8 jets, citing a loss of confidence after two crashes within five months. It is the first announcement of a cancellation since Boeing's new model aircraft were grounded following fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. PT Garuda Indonesia, which had ordered 50 Max 8 jets in 2014 and had received just one plane last year, sent a letter to Boeing last week requesting to cancel the order worth $4.9 billion, company spokesman Ikhsan Rosan said Friday. The carrier has so far paid Boeing about $26 million for the order. A Boeing 737 MAX 9 test plane is pictured at Boeing Field on Friday in Seattle, Washington Boeing said it was stopping production of the planes for three days next week 'to help us recover from the impact of the winter storms and supplier delays.' But they said otherwise it would be business as usual. 'The production lines will not pulse forward on those days, work will continue in every area inside and outside the factory.' The Wall Street Journal reported late Friday that federal investigators are looking into whether Boeing gave U.S. regulators and the company's customers incomplete or misleading information about the jets. The report cited people familiar with the matter who were not named. Earlier this week, a person briefed on the matter told The Associated Press that U.S. prosecutors are looking into the development of the 737 Max jets. The Transportation Department's inspector general is also investigating the FAA's approval of jets, a U.S. official told AP. Boeing Co. shares closed Friday down $10.53, or 2.8 percent, at $362.17 amid a broad stock market decline. Boeing shares have dropped 14 percent since the Ethiopia Airlines crash. An animal charity has criticised the Education Secretarys suggestion to allow dogs into classrooms, saying that it is not good for their welfare. The Dogs Trust said animals may get tired and stressed in schools because they are noisy and unpredictable. It comes after Damian Hinds praised the growing number of schools adopting wellbeing dogs to help childrens mental health. Handlers at Dogs Trust Leeds, West Yorks, who provided round-the-clock care until these pups found their feet. The Dogs Trust said animals may get tired and stressed in schools because they are noisy and unpredictable Speaking at the University of Buckingham Ultimate Wellbeing conference on Thursday, he said dogs can be uplifting for children although he added that individual schools should decide whether to use them or not. Sir Anthony Seldon, vice chancellor of Buckingham University, went one step further and called for a dog in every school. He said: The quickest and biggest hit that we can make to improve mental health in our schools and to make them feel safe for children is to have at least one dog in every single school in the country. However, the charity hit back at the suggestion, saying: While being around dogs can have huge benefits, having a dog in the classroom needs to be equally enjoyable for the dog too. Speaking at the University of Buckingham Ultimate Wellbeing conference on Thursday, he said dogs can be uplifting for children although he added that individual schools should decide whether to use them or not A classroom can be noisy and unpredictable and could stress any dog who visits. Having a dog in every school is not something wed recommend and not likely to be in the best interests of dog welfare. Many companies and universities including Buckingham are already giving employees and students access to dogs to enhance wellbeing. The Dogs Trust is the largest dog welfare charity in the UK and cares for over 15,000 dogs each year through a network of 20 rehoming centres. Advertisement A jury has acquitted a white former police officer who fatally shot an unarmed black teenager as he was fleeing a traffic stop, a confrontation that was captured on video and led to weeks of unrest. Former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld was charged with homicide for shooting Antwon Rose II last June, meaning the jury could have convicted Rosfeld of murder or manslaughter. The panel of seven men and five women - including three black jurors - saw video of the fatal confrontation, which showed Rose falling to the ground after being hit. The acquittal Friday came after fewer than four hours of deliberations on the fourth day of the trial. 'I hope that man never sleeps at night,' Rose's mother, Michelle Kenney, said of Rosfeld, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. 'I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none.' The verdict leaves Rose's family to pursue the federal civil rights lawsuit they filed last August against Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh, a small municipality about 10 miles from downtown Pittsburgh. Rose was riding in an unlicensed taxi that had been involved in a drive-by shooting when Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot the 17-year-old in the back, arm and side of the face as he ran away. A prosecution witness said that after the shooting, he heard Rosfeld say repeatedly, 'I don't know why I shot him. I don't know why I fired.' Scroll down for video Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld (left on March 12) was charged with homicide for shooting Antwon Rose II (right) during a traffic stop last June. He was acquitted Friday Supporters of Antwon Rose II, stand on the steps of Allegheny County Courthouse after hearing the verdict of not guilty on all charges for Michael Rosfeld Supporters of Antwon hug as they leave the courthouse. The protester in gray above read aloud a poem Rose had written two years earlier. Part of it said: 'I am not what you think. I am confused and afraid. I wonder what path I will take. There were tears and gasps from black people gathered in an overflow courtroom, and several broke out in song: 'Antwon Rose was a freedom fighter, and he taught us how to fight.' A protester is seen outside court Michelle Kenney, the mother of Antwon Rose II, leaves the Allegheny County Courthouse with supporters after hearing the verdict of not guilty on all charges for Rosfeld Rose's family remained stoic after the verdict was delivered. His sister Kyra Jamison had tears streaming down her face and her mother Kenney urged her not to cry. Kenney said she was upset but unsurprised by the verdict, given other cases in which police officers have either avoided charges or won acquittals in similar shootings. 'It isn't what I hoped for, but it's what I expected,' she said, adding she feels her son ended up dead because he was black. There were tears and gasps from black people gathered in an overflow courtroom, and several broke out in song: 'Antwon Rose was a freedom fighter, and he taught us how to fight.' Rosfeld's wife burst out sobbing as the verdict was announced. She and Rosfeld were hustled out of the courtroom by deputies. The reaction was measured after Friday night's verdict, with a small group of chanting protesters gathering outside the Allegheny County Courthouse briefly blocking intersections and entering hotels. Pittsburgh police tweeted the 'peaceful demonstration' had resulted in rolling, temporary road closures. One protester read aloud a poem Rose had written two years earlier. Part of it said: 'I hear that there's only two ways out. I see mothers bury their sons. I want my mom to never feel that pain. I am confused and afraid.' The Woodlands Hills School District had released the poem after his death at the request of Antwon's mother Kenney. The crowd then started chanting 'it is our duty to fight for our freedom'. Other chants included 'no Justice, no peace' and 'three shots in the back. How you justify that?' The crowd started chanting 'it is our duty to fight for our freedom' outside the court house Other chants included 'no Justice, no peace' and 'three shots in the back. How you justify that?'. Supporters of Antwon are seen above Rosfeld's wife burst out sobbing as the verdict was announced. She and Rosfeld were hustled out of the courtroom by deputies. Antwon's supporters are seen above A prosecution witness said that after the shooting, he heard Rosfeld say repeatedly, 'I don't know why I shot him. I don't know why I fired.' Supporters of Antwon gather outside the courthouse The Rose family's attorney, S. Lee Merritt, had urged a murder conviction, saying before closing arguments that it's 'pretty obvious' Rose was not a threat to Rosfeld. Rose's death - one of many high-profile killings of black men and teens by white police officers in recent years - spurred protests in the Pittsburgh area last year, including a late-night march that shut down a major highway. On Friday, Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Fodi declared in his closing argument that Rosfeld had acted as 'judge, jury and executioner'. A defense expert, retired Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Clifford W. Jobe Jr., testified Rosfeld followed proper procedure when he shot and killed Rose. 'I can't fault Officer Rosfeld,' Jobe, a use-of-force expert, told jurors on Thursday. He called the officer's actions 'textbook.' The chilling poem penned by Antwon before his death is seen above. One line reads, 'I see mothers bury their sons; I want my mom to never feel that pain' Rose family attorney, S. Lee Merritt, left, and Michelle Kenney, center, mother of Antwon Rose II, walk towards members of the media following the closing arguments in the trial Friday Antwon's sister Kyra Jamison is pictured Wednesday leaving the trial with her jacket calling for justice for her dead brother As Jobe returned to the stand Friday for cross-examination, the judge lifted a gag order he imposed on parties in the case at the request of the defense. Defense attorney Patrick Thomassey said while he and prosecutors have abided by the judge's order, the attorney for Rose's family has not. On Wednesday, S. Lee Merritt released a letter to the media that Rose's mother wrote to prosecutors urging them to show what a 'kind, loving and funny' person her son was. Rosfeld testified Thursday he thought Rose or another passenger in the car had pointed a weapon at him, and he fired in self-defense. But it turned out that neither teen had a gun at the time. 'It happened very quickly,' said Rosfeld, who took the stand in his own defense. 'My intent was to end the threat that was made against me. I just wanted to end the threat to me. I followed the threat and fired.' Rosfeld got choked up and dabbed away tears as he recounted finding the mortally wounded Rose on the ground. 'I was upset, shocked,' he said. 'He was moaning, trying to breathe.' S. Lee Merritt, attorney for Antwon's mother talks with reporters as he leaves the Allegheny County Courthouse Friday Footage of the moment Michael Rosfeld shot dead unarmed black 17-year-old Antwon Rose II as he fled a traffic stop last June was shown to the jury at the former East Pittsburgh police officer's trial on Tuesday. Rosfeld is circled left and Rose is circled right Rose had been riding in the front seat of the cab when another occupant, Zaijuan Hester, in the backseat, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street, hitting one in the abdomen. A few minutes later, Rosfeld spotted their car, which had its rear windshield shot out, and pulled it over. Hester, 18, pleaded guilty last week to aggravated assault and firearms violations. Hester told a judge that he, not Rose, did the shooting. Reports of Islamophobic hate crimes have soared in the wake of the Christchurch terror attack where 50 people were massacred in two mosques in New Zealand, a charity said. Tell Mama, a group that monitors anti-Muslim incidents, said on Friday there was a six-fold increase in allegations compared to the previous week. They received complaints of 95 incidences of Islamophobia in the week after the terror attack, all but ten of those referenced the massacre. On Friday last week 50 people were shot dead at two mosques in the city during Friday prayers. The Al-Noor Mosque in Christchurch which was targeted in the attack, with hundreds of locals paying their respects to the victims today Members of London's New Zealand community hold a vigil at Trafalgar Square in honour of the victims on Wednesday Mosques in the UK have been on high alert, with increased police patrols, since the terror attack and hate crimes have been reported across the nation. Five mosques in Birmingham had windows smashed, prompting an investigation by counter-terrorism officers. On Friday a 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated criminal damage. In addition a 50-year-old man was charged with offences including attempted murder and racially aggravated fear of violence following a terror attack in Stanwell, Surrey. Commenting on the data, Tell Mama director Iman Atta told the Guardian: 'This shows that some people see Muslims as fair game for hate and it is now clear that we have an ongoing and persistent ideology of hate that is generating a focus on Muslims. 'Muslims in New Zealand were killed and British Muslims feel the anger of bigots. It is perverse.' The National Police Chiefs' Council said attacks such as the one in Christchurch often prompt a rise in reporting, due to an increase in hostility and fear. Assistant Chief Constable Mark Hamilton said: 'Experience tells us that we should sadly expect that a horrific attack such as the one in Christchurch will have an impact on levels of hostility in the UK but it will also increase the fear of crime in affected communities. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Adern speaks to the media in Wellington, New Zealand, the day after the horrific terror attack in Christchurch 'Both of these factors are likely to increase reporting levels.' The Muslim Council of Britain said the statistics were 'deeply worrying' and called for a zero tolerance approach from politicians, while praising New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's 'bold leadership'. 'It seems an environment has been created in our society over a period of time, fed in part by sections of the media and political commentators, that Muslims are fair game,' a statement said. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Adam Schiff has said that he believes there will likely be further indictments from Robert Mueller as the full contents of his report are looked at in closer detail. Schiff suggested he would call the special counsel before a House panel if necessary to learn what is contained in the long-awaited document. 'If necessary, we will call Bob Mueller or others before our committee, I would imagine the judiciary committee may call the attorney general if necessary,' the California Democrat said during an interview Friday on CNN. Scroll down for video House Intelligence Committee chairman Adam Schiff said Friday that he's willing to subpoena Robert Mueller and Attorney General Barr, if needed, to push for disclosure 'At the end of the day, the department is under a statutory obligation to provide our committee with any information regarding significant intelligence activities, including counterintelligence. And it's hard to imagine anything more significant than what Bob Mueller has been investigating. 'We have a right to be informed, and we will demand to be informed about it.' Special Counsel Robert Mueller turned over his report to AG William Barr Friday afternoon Schiff was asked by Wolf Blitzer if he would be satisfied if 'the most sensitive information' obtained by Mueller was only shared with the so-called 'gang of eight'. 'No, it would not suffice. Now, there may be a select sub-section of information they feel they can only share because of the very sensitive sources which derived the information, but the volumes of information that has been found needs to be shared with the whole committee so we can evaluate what steps have to be taken to protect the country. 'We're going to need to have the same sort of discovery that we saw during the last Congress, and indeed it may be far more extensive than that, to make sure that U.S. policy is driven by U.S. interest and not because the president or anyone around him is looking to make money from the Kremlin on a tower or anything else.' In another interview with MSNBC, Schiff said that it is entirely likely that more indictments could be forthcoming, saying instead it is 'entirely possible, if not likely, that there will be' more. 'Well, what it means is that the office of the special counsel, which is essentially a contract attorney to the Justice Department, that that office won't be bringing any further indictments,' he said. 'It doesn't mean, of course, that main justice or the Seventh District of New York and the Eastern District or others may not bring indictments. 'In fact, given the lengthy redactions in many of the pleadings of the special counsel eluding to other investigations, I think it's entirely possible if not likely that there will be other indictments. 'Now, how central or peripheral they'll be to the core issues of potential conspiracy is yet to be determined.' How the news broke: This is the letter Bill Barr, the attorney general, sent to the chairs and ranking members of the Judiciary Committees, revealing the Mueller probe is over Though Trump himself has said the report should be made public, it's not clear whether the administration would fight subpoenas for testimony or block the transmission of grand jury material. If the administration decides to fight, lawmakers could ask federal courts to step in and enforce a subpoena. A court fight could, in theory, reach the Supreme Court. But few tussles between Congress and the White House get that far. They often are resolved through negotiation. The Democrats, led by Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, could also formally ask Mueller to send his committee evidence that could be used in possible impeachment proceedings against Trump, as suggested by Benjamin Wittes, a senior Brookings Institution fellow and editor-in-chief of the Lawfare blog. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer are demanding to see the full Mueller report immediately 'There is no reason on God's green earth why Attorney General Barr' shouldn't release the full report, said Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer With Attorney General William Barr vowing to rush out information on the report's 'principal conclusions' as soon as this weekend, Democrats were insisting they see both the complete document and the evidence in its entirety. 'It is imperative for Mr. Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress,' House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer said in a joint statement. 'Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public,' the leaders said. 'The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency,' they said. President Donald Trump talks with reporters before boarding Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House, Friday, in Washington Speaking to reporters Friday, Schumer said: 'The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency.' He added: 'The president himself has called without qualification or the report to be made public. There is no reason on God's green earth why Attorney General Barr should do any less.' Schumer predicted the effort ultimately would prevail due to public sentiment. 'The demand of the public is overwhelming to see the report when it's on such a serious matter and it will be made public. Public pressure will force it to be,' he said. Barr himself pledged transparency during his Senate confirmation hearing. But the strong defender of presidential power also left open the possibility he would share his own summary, rather than the report itself, to Congress a move that would provoke a fight with the Democratic House. Although there were reports Mueller would bring no additional indictments, there remained the possibility of indictments already sealed, or that another body such as the Southern District of New York wold bring indictments. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, told MSNBC there was a 'high probability' that could happen. 'I think there is a strong possibility of additional indictments, including president Trump's family,' Blumenthal said Friday evening. 'Maybe not by the Department of Justice, main Justice. But by other offices. I know that you want to stick to the Mueller report. But the Mueller report cannot be viewed in isolation,' the former prosecutor and Trump nemesis continued. 'Any more than an investigation, even though it may end, cannot lead to additional investigative leads and actions. And so I think there's a high probability of additional indictments.' With the White House already resisting document requests from the Democratic Congress, lawmakers want to get hold of Mueller's work product and use it as the basis for additional investigation. Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell of California, a member of the Intelligence and Judiciary panels, bluntly told CNN Friday afternoon: 'We want the full report. We want it now. We want it before the president is able to get it or make any edits.' Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) speaks with House Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), who is ramping up his own investigations The president is a subject. He's a subject of the investigation. He has an inherent conflict of interest,' Swalwell continued. 'It's really inappropriate that he would even touch this. IF he didn't do anything wrong, he would keep his hands off it.' Sand Senate Intelligence Committee Co-chair Democrat Mark Warner: 'Congress and the American people deserve to judge the facts of the Mueller report for themselves. It must be provided to Congress immediately, and the AG should swiftly prepare a declassified version for the public. Nothing short of that will suffice.' Warner added on Twitter: 'Any attempt by the Trump Administration to cover up the results of this investigation into Russia's attack on our democracy would be unacceptable.' House Judiciary ranking member Rep. Doug Collins, a Republican of Georgia, joined the call for the release of the Mueller report. 'After nearly two years, the special counsel has concluded his investigation, and I look forward to reviewing Attorney General Barr's report carefully, when it becomes available. I fully expect the Justice Department to release the special counsel's report to this committee and to the public without delay and to the maximum extent permitted by law,' Collins said. 'We want the full report. We want it now,' said Rep. Eric Swalwell of California Special Counsel Robert Muller arrives at his office building, Thursday, March 21, 2019, in Washington Barr told key lawmakers: 'I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend,' he wrote. That raised the possibility that he would provide a mere summary of Mueller's findings, which could leave information that didn't result in charges out of the matter. Trump said that he would have no objection to the public release of Mueller's findings although he was not specific as to what he would see released. 'I don't mind,' he said. 'Let it come out,' Trump declared. 'Let people see it.' And White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told the public via Twitter Friday afternoon: 'The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsel's report.' Sir David Attenborough will present a new 'unflinching' documentary about climate change as he fears 'conditions have changed far faster' than he ever imagined. In the one-off film for BBC One - which comes after one of the hottest years on record - the naturalist and broadcaster will look at the potential threats to the planet as well as possible solutions, 20 years after he first started talking about the impact of climate change. Climate Change - The Facts will air in the spring and feature footage of the devastating impact global warming has already had. Scroll for video Sir David Attenborough, 92, will present Climate Change - The Facts which will air in the spring and feature footage of the devastating impact of global warming Scientists including Dr James Hansen, Dr Michael Mann and Professor Catherine Mitchell will explore the science behind the extreme weather conditions of recent years - which has seen severe storms and massive wildfires. They will also discuss the accelerating rate at which the world's ice is melting, causing the sea level to rise, and how deforestation is worsening the problem by adding to CO2 in the atmosphere. The BBC said the film will 'deliver an unflinching exploration of what dangerous levels of climate change could mean for human populations, what is likely to happen if global warming exceeds 1.5 degrees, and if major reductions in CO2 emissions are not made in the next decade'. Sir David, 92, says in the documentary: 'It may sound frightening but the scientific evidence is that if we have not taken dramatic action within the next decade, we could face irreversible damage to the natural world and the collapse of our societies. 'We're running out of time but there's still hope... I believe that if we better understand the threat we face, the more likely it is that we can avoid such a catastrophic future.' Sir David Attenborough said that for the first time in human history the stability of our planet 'can't be taken for granted' Charlotte Moore, BBC director of content, said: 'There is a real hunger from audiences to find out more about climate change and understand the facts. So it feels right to address the issue in peak on BBC One. 'We have a trusted guide in Sir David Attenborough, who will be speaking to the challenging issues that it raises, and presenting an engaging and informative look at one of the biggest issues of our time.' Tom McDonald, head of commissioning, natural history and specialist factual, said: 'This is an urgent, important and timely film which lays out in detail the impact that climate change is having on our planet. 'This documentary continues our commitment to telling the most significant environmental stories and reflecting the speed at which our world is changing.' It comes after Sir David said his first Netflix series Our Planet is the most important he has ever made as he discusses 'the crucial health of our planet'. He said: 'The natural world is the greatest source of excitement, visual beauty and intellectual interest,' he says. 'It is the greatest source of so much that makes life worth living. 'We are totally dependent on it. 'It provides us with every mouthful we eat and every breath we take. Our future depends on our ability to take action now.' Groundbreaking new Netflix series Our Planet travels across the different terrains of the earth and introduces us to some of its most fascinating and endangered species. Narrated by legendary broadcaster Sir David it took four years of filming, a crew of 600, and filmed across 50 countries in seven continents Entangled in a fishing net, an endangered Hawaiian monk seal awaits rescue. Scientists believe that marine mammals are ingesting huge volumes of plastic, especially particles that have broken down to the size of krill and plankton - a whale's primary source of food Icebergs float in the sea on the east coast of Greenland, near the Arctic. The show explores how the whole planet works together The eight-part show is an attempt to wake humanity up to the damage being done to the natural world and to inspire people to find ways to protect it. Shot in high-definition, it tries to showcase the world's wildlife habitats and reveal how they depend on each other for survival. Sir David narrates the show but was not involved in the filming and says he does not merit all the acclaim. He said: 'A lot of people think I shoot all these pictures. 'I tell them, "I wasn't there, dear boy!" I'm credited with all sorts of achievements I don't deserve. 'All I do is write the scripts these days.' He added: 'My responsibility in this series is the words, trying to get the right words in the first place and then speaking them once you've got them.' For Sean Hannity, the 'witch hunt' was finally over. Rachel Maddow considered it the start of something. The diametrically opposed opinion hosts, who vie for the distinction of the most popular in cable news, were the windows through which many Americans digested Friday's news that special counsel Robert Mueller had concluded a nearly two-year investigation into Russian involvement in the 2016 election. While his report, or even a summary, has not been released, television news still had hours to fill talking about it. Fox News Channel's Hannity, a close Trump ally, focused on reports there will be no additional indictments stemming from Mueller's probe. Fox News Channel's Hannity, a close Trump ally, focused on reports there will be no additional indictments stemming from Mueller's probe 'The left's favorite conspiracy theory is now dead,' Hannity said. 'It is buried, and there was no collusion, no conspiracy, no obstruction. The witch hunt is over and there will be no further charges.' He lamented that lives were ruined by the investigation and said that people who have been prosecuted or convicted had committed 'process crimes,' or crimes such as lying to investigators that stem from the very existence of the investigation. The accusations against Trump were 'what we always said, a hoax, a lie conceived by hate.' Hannity's Fox colleague Tucker Carlson stressed that the investigation had ended with no charges related to 'collusion' between President Donald Trump's campaign and the Russian government, the purported impetus for the probe. 'This investigation was always, from day one about collusion with Russia, about betraying this country. They told us that for years,' Carlson said. Carlson played a highlight reel of Democrats and pundits on other channels previously predicting imminent indictments of Trump and his family members. None were indicted and Mueller reportedly doesn't recommend any further prosecutions. 'This has been a disaster. How can we let the people who are responsible for it continue as if it never happened?' he said, calling for the resignation of top Democrats who have pushed the collusion narrative. Tucker Carlson stressed that the investigation had ended with no charges related to 'collusion' with Russia, the purported impetus for the probe While Carlson suggested it was a night Americans 'should be celebrating the great news' that no crime was apparently found regarding collusion, Hannity said citizens should be outraged by the amount of time and money spent on the case. He promised a reckoning in the coming weeks of politicians and media figures he claimed were guilty of a rush to judgment, and his first target was U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, chairman of the House Investigations Committee. 'Schifty Schiff' read the words onscreen behind him. 'What is Maddow and all the other MSNBC conspiracy theorists, what are they going to ever do now?' he said. As he talked, Maddow was doing the same. Unlike most evenings, when the two figures work in studios across Manhattan's Sixth Avenue from each other, Maddow had rushed to a studio in Tennessee where she had spent the day trout fishing. 'Finally, it happened,' she said. 'In terms of what that means and what Mueller has found, we know only the smallest little bits. This is the start of something, not the end of something.' In meticulous fashion, she detailed how the news that Mueller's investigation had concluded was reported and what a letter by Attorney General William Barr meant about what will be released to the public. Rachel Maddow waited until 16 minutes into her program to discuss the reports that there will be no new indictments stemming from the probe Democrats in Congress have already demanded the full report be released and that they see background materials; Maddow read a letter by Schiff about that on the air. 'Right now we mostly have just a ton of questions, as to what Mueller's report says, who gets to see it, who gets to decide who gets to see it and when,' she said. It wasn't until 16 minutes into her program that she discussed the reports that there will be no new indictments stemming from the probe. Many Fox News Channel guests, not just Hannity, focused on that detail on Friday evening. Former Trump aide Corey Lewandowski called it 'a very clear signal that this entire hoax is over.' Still, some Fox personalities, including Chris Wallace and Harris Faulkner, had to caution guests that Mueller's report hadn't been seen yet. 'To say that somehow this clears the president seems like the height of rushing to judgment,' Wallace said. He dismissed the idea that those prosecuted had been charged with process crimes, saying they were very serious. Meanwhile, on CNN, analyst and frequent Trump critic Jeffrey Toobin had an answer to colleagues who warned Trump and his supporters against prematurely celebrating. While he isn't necessarily in the clear, the fact that the president's sons or son-in-law Jared Kushner were not indicted 'is unambiguously good news for him,' Toobin said. The world's tallest building has been lit up with an image of New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hugging a mourning women at the Kilbirnie mosque in Wellington. The Burj Khalifa in Dubai beamed out the picture of Ms Ardern in a black hijab on the 829m skyscraper on Friday. The word 'peace' in both Arabic and English was marked on the building in honour, a week after 50 people lost their lives in the Christchurch terrorist attack. Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of the emirate of Dubai, Sheik Mohammed, shared the image on twitter and thanked Ms Ardern for her support. The Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with the image of Ms Ardern in a black hijab hugging a mourning woman on Friday 'New Zealand today fell silent in honour of the mosque attacks' martyrs,' he tweeted. 'Thank you PM @jacindaardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world,' Sheik Mohammed posted. The heartbreaking image was projected on the same day New Zealand broadcast the Muslim call to prayer on national television and radio. Sheikh Mohammed thanked Jacinda Ardern for her support and empathy as 50 Muslims were killed in Christchurch Most victims were laid to rest in a mass burial in Christchurch on Friday following traditional prayers and a two minute silence. Ms Ardern has been praised for her response to the tragedy by politicians and people all around the world. '[She] reflects the type of sincere, people-oriented leadership that the world needs to evolve from its current chaotic state,' Martin Luther King Jr's daughter Bernice King tweeted. Muslim community organiser Faiza Ali posted: 'Among the many faces & stories Ill remember from the #ChristChurchMosque tragedy, I will never forget Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. What a remarkable leader.' A Michigan couple who were married for 56 years have died on the same day within hours of each other. Will and Judy Webb, both 77, were battling illnesses and their daughter said they spent two months in separate hospitals in the lead-up to them passing away on March 6. The story has led to the duo being compared to characters in the 2004 movie, The Notebook. Scroll down for video Will and Judy Webb, both 77, died within hours of each other on March 6 in a Michigan hospice The couple held hands during their final hours and Judy rubbed her husband's hand as he died The Michigan couple were married 56 years and the husband's illness mirrored his wife's In December, Judy had a procedure that 'didn't go well', daughter MaryBeth said. She almost died due to infection on New Year's Eve and was transported to Henry Ford Hospital. 'My dad seeing her like that it was too much for him,' their daughter told News Herald about the printer-turned-beverage distributor. 'From that point on, everything that happened to her happened to him in a different place. 'She spiked a fever, he spiked a fever. She started getting congestion, he got pneumonia. She got a reaction from a medication called metabolic encephalopathy, then he turned around and that's what he had.' The feelings of illness were made worse by Judy being apart from the man she'd been with for decades. They missed their anniversary for the first time in 13 years during that period, MaryBeth told WXYZ. In December, Judy (right) had a procedure that 'didn't go well'. Then Will (left) got sick too Judy (center) perked up when daughter offered to reunite her with Will (right) in a hospice 'To me, they didn't want to live without each other,' their daughter said. 'I know it sounds crazy, but people can die from a broken heart, and I feel like that's what happened to my dad. All my mom wanted to do she wasn't really responding real well and I asked if she wanted to just do comfort care and go be with dad. She perked up, shot her head right up and said, 'Yes, where is he?' The pair were reunited in a hospice and as Will - one of 11 siblings - slipped away, a very poorly Judy subtly responded by rubbing his hand. Hours later Judy who worked in infectious disease at a hospital - took her last breath. She left behind two brothers named Ronald and Donald. They met when they were 14. 'They were friends, they dated other people, they were engaged to other people,' said Marybeth. 'And then they were both single when he went to Army. So she was like, 'I didn't have anyone to write, so I started writing your dad.' Their daughter said 'people die of a broken heart'. 'They didn't want to live without each other' The Melvindale couple survived by their three daughters Lori Thomas, Ann Warren and Mary Beth, five grandchildren (David, Nichole, Ivy, Rykki and Brycen) and four great-grandchildren (Mackenzie, Regan, Avery and Easton). Their funeral took place Tuesday morning at Michigan Memorial Funeral Home, and they were later cremated at The Witness Crematory. The story has had people across the US contacting MaryBeth to tell her how similar it is the film starring Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling. 'I've never seen the movie The Notebook, so whenever anybody made reference to it, I didn't know what they were talking about it,' she said. 'I told one of my friends, 'I've never seen it, I'm going to have to watch it.' She said, 'You just lived it.' 'Hearing from people warms my heart because it is a great love story. But I still lost my parents. I'm happy that they went together and don't have to suffer losing each other, but it's still hard.' A Russian tourist attempting to smuggle a drugged orangutan out of Indonesia in his suitcase to bring home and keep as a pet has been arrested in Bali. Andrei Zhestkov was detained in Denpasar airport late on Friday while passing through a security screening before a planned flight back to Russia. Suspicious officers stopped him and opened his luggage to find a two-year-old male orangutan sleeping inside a rattan basket. 'We believe the orangutan was fed allergy pills which caused him to sleep. We found the pills inside the suitcase,' Bali conservation agency official I Ketut Catur Marbawa told AFP Saturday. '(Zhestkov) seemed prepared, like he was transporting a baby,' he added. A Russian tourist was caught trying to smuggle this two-year-old orangutan, pictured being bottle-fed after he was rescued, out of Bali The orangutan was found sleeping inside a rattan basket (pictured). It is believed Andrei Zhestkov drugged him with allergy pills Zhestkov, pictured centre, told authorities that the protected species was gifted by his friend for him to keep as a pet The 27-year-old also packed baby formula and blankets for the orangutan, Marbawa said. Police also found two live geckos and five lizards inside the suitcase. Zhestkov told authorities that the protected species was gifted by his friend, another Russian tourist who bought the primate for $3,000 from a street market in Java. He claimed his friend, who has since left Indonesia, convinced him he could bring home the orangutan as a pet. The Russian could face up to five years in prison and $7,000 in fines for smuggling the critically endangered species The Russian could face up to five years in prison and $7,000 in fines for smuggling, Marbawa said. Orangutans are a critically endangered species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with only about 100,000 remaining worldwide. Plantation workers and villagers in Indonesia often consider the apes pests and sometimes attack them, while poachers capture the animals to sell as pets. A string of fatal attacks on the apes have been blamed on farmers and hunters. Four Indonesian men were arrested last year over the killing of an orangutan shot some 130 times with an air gun. A gay arts teacher who had sex with two female teenagers could face 20 years in prison. The 28-year-old woman was arrested last year after it was revealed she had sexual relationships with students in a Perth school for more than two years. The teacher would take her students on trips to the beach and would host photography and graphic design workshops, The West Australian reported. She could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in jail for sexual conduct with a child under 16, which she admitted to. A 28-year-old lesbian arts teacher had a sexual relationship with students in a Perth school for two years (file image) An investigation was launched after a teenage girl claimed she had been in a relationship with the teacher. The woman pleaded guilty to 48 sex offences including sexual penetration on her victim aged between 13 and 16 at the time of the offence. She indecently assaulted the victim up to 19 times on multiple occasions including repeated assaults on Australia Day 2016. In 2017, the teacher indecently dealt with a second student and sexually penetrated on her 14 times, the Rockingham Magistrates Court heard. The woman who has been teaching since 2013 was arrested in July 2018 and dismissed by the Education Department not long after. She will be sentenced in May however a pre-sentence and psychological report have been requested by her lawyer. Advertisement Miami Beach Police took alcohol and drugs away from spring breakers as they sifted through the Florida vacation crowd on Friday after holding an emergency council meeting where there was talk of imposing a curfew. An additional 80 officers from the department were deployed and outside agencies assisted with approximately 70 more officers coming in as the party crowd caused quite the scene. Among those people was a college crowd posing up to lick Reddi Whip off each others bodies. Scroll down for video Miami Beach Police held an emergency council meeting where there was talk of imposing a curfew in the Florida city The US holiday known for excessive partying every March college students stripping down to the bare essentials A sign speaking out against toxic heavy fuels used by Carnival Cruise Lines is flown above the heads of spring breakers Others frolicked around on the sand pointing at a sign speaking out against toxic heavy fuels used by Carnival Cruise Lines as a ship sailed below it. But elsewhere law enforcement was focused on breaking up fights and keeping revelers under control by night. While it's all fun and games for visitors, the cops had the best interests of those there all-year-round at heart. 'It is vital that our residents feel safe in our city nothing is more important than preserving quality of life,' said Mayor Dan Gelber. 'We also welcome all visitors as long as they follow our laws and respect our community. This is not a place where anything goes, and if that is their reason for coming here, they should go elsewhere.' The US holiday known for excessive partying every March sees the bar-lined ocean-front area fill up with students from across the country, drinking, partying and stripping down to the bare essentials. The drunken revelry has reached such chaotic heights this year - with drunken brawls on the beachfront and a tourist falling to her death out of a car window - that the authorities have decided to call time on the wild festivities. Miami Beach Police on ATVs took alcohol and drugs away from spring breakers as they sifted through the crowd on Friday Miami Beach appears similar to a war zone as spring breakers descend upon the iconic beach front and cops shut roads down Spring breakers are out in full force during one of the final weeks of college spring break on South Beach in Miami Beach The authorities have said they will no longer ignore people consuming alcohol or lighting up joints on the beach and drove ATVs directly through a sea of sunbathers relaxing on beach towels. Miami Beach Commisioner Mark Samuelian said: 'As Spring Break continues to attract more visitors to our community, the City of Miami Beach has deployed an average of 117 goodwill ambassadors every day from Friday through Sunday last week, and will deploy an average of 134 goodwill ambassadors every day this weekend. Riot police have begun patrolling the waterfront, with police vans parked nearby to detain party people who go too far. 'We will also be patrolling the shorelines to effectively monitor the crowds on the beach. Please enjoy our waters and beaches while following our safety rules and regulations,' Miami Beach Police tweeted. MBPD officers on the beach amidst spring breakers, confiscating alcohol.https://t.co/9klwAWGIPY pic.twitter.com/NUlgKpECBU Miami Beach Police (@MiamiBeachPD) March 21, 2019 Miami Beach Police take alcohol and drugs away from spring breakers as they sift through the crowd in the Florida city A residential boundary around the entire Flamingo Park area took effect Friday and Saturday evenings. Flamingo Park residents were told to carry a photo ID with them to access the area. Similar steps were taken to protect the residents in the South of Fifth neighborhood. Traffic and parking were also affected by the final week of Spring break. The Julia Tuttle will have two lanes open at all times and one lane closed Saturday from 10pm to 3am. It was the same case on Friday night. Ocean Drive, where happy hour discounts on monster-sized cocktails are popular, remained pedestrian only and parking was removed on Collins Avenue between 5-15 streets. A group of spring breakers have fun using whipped cream on Miami Beach, Florida on Friday afternoon Spring breakers are out in full force during one of the final weeks of college spring break on South Beach in Miami Beach Plainclothes police officers mingling with the crowd and the various closures was a comprise so cops didn't have the shut the whole thing down after complaints from residents. 'You can't stop people from having fun,' said Marta Ramirez, a 70-year-old resident of Miami Beach. 'But they should try to show a little more respect. Let them dance and have fun, but with order.' The police slogan for those heading to Miami for Spring Break this year was 'Come on vacation, don't leave on probation' but with the streets reeking of urine each morning. it's clear the crowd has been up to no good. 'I thank all of our law enforcement and first responders for working long, difficult days and nights to keep us safe and for exercising their best judgment under trying circumstances. We appreciate their service,' added Mayor Gelber. Spring breakers cross Ocean Drive in South Beach, Florida on Friday. The excesses of students celebrating Spring Break have reached a point that is forcing Miami Beach officials to deploy anti-riot police to quell the parties Entire ballot boxes at one election point in NSW have been quarantined after a blunder that allowed a Liberal party volunteer to mark off the votes. The woman has found herself in the centre of a major security breach at the Strathfield polling booths, in Sydney's Inner West. The seat is currently held by Labor with a slim margin of just 1.8 per cent. Entire ballot boxes at one election point in NSW have been quarantined after a blunder that allowed a Liberal party volunteer to mark off the votes (pictured is NSW Liberal party leader Gladys Berejiklian) She allegedly arrived this morning at the booth with the intention of handing out pamphlets in support of the local Liberal candidate, Philip Madirazza. When she arrived, she was allegedly ushered into a room where she signed an official code of conduct by Commission staff. She was then told to start marking off votes, a source told The Daily Telegraph. It wasn't until she received a text from the Liberals asking where she was that she realised she may have made a mistake, the source claims. A senior Labour source confirmed to the publication the party would be making a formal complaint (pictured is NSW Labor party leader Michael Daley 'She went outside asking if she had made a mistake. The Commission is believed to have quarantined all the ballot boxes that she was involved with, or may have come into contact with. A senior Labour source confirmed to the publication the party would be making a formal complaint. 'We are obviously very concerned about this conduct, and have reported the matter to the NSW Electoral Commission for a thorough investigation,' the source said. NSW residents around the state have been heading to designated polling booths to vote for their local MP as well as to vote for state leadership. Gladys Berejiklian and Michael Daley have been heavily campaigning in the days leading up to the voting. A transgender student says his Georgia high school removed him from this year's prom king ballot. Johnson High School senior Dex Frier, from Gainesville, Georgia, was nominated by the student body as one of six candidates for prom king, but was later informed by school officials that he could only be on the prom queen ballot or not at all. Frier came out identifying as male during his sophomore year. Dex Frier, 17, learned he was one of six students nominated to for prom king Soon after, the transgender student was told he could only run for prom queen and not king Fellow students have said the school's decision sends 'a message of intolerance that could act as a precedent for future issues' 'I've never been shown so much support before,' Dex - whose birth name is Phenix - told the Gainsville Times. 'Just because I'm not legally male I was going to get excluded from something that every guy has the opportunity to be in high school. It was really upsetting,' Dex said in an interview with BuzzFeed News of the meeting with school officials. 'That was the way it was in Hall County.' 'If I've got to be the one to start the change for that, then so be it,' Frier said to CBS News. 'And I hope this puts pressure on the Hall County School System because this shouldn't happen next year. And if it does, I'm going to be really upset because I should be the first and only person who has to go through so much trouble in order to be who I want to be.' Frier says he learned one valuable lesson that he hopes he can teach others: 'There's always going to be at least one person out there to back you up and to help you stand your ground when you feel like you're falling through the floor.' Hall County Schools Superintendent Will Schofield says the district has never removed students from prom. 'I've never been shown so much support before,' Frier said. 'Just because I'm not legally male I was going to get excluded from something that every guy has the opportunity to be in high school. It was really upsetting' Schofield said: 'I am not interested in being responsible for placing our school district in the middle of a national social, societal and legal issue, which would have the potential to substantially disrupt us from our core mission of providing an education for the boys and girls in our community. Prom should be a time for students to fellowship together and celebrate their local school.' Georgia is one of several states that requires a court order granting a legal name change before a school can adjust its records. A petition calling for Frier's return to the ballot has amassed more than 17,500 signatures in less than a week. Friends emailed Schofield, suggesting his decision sent 'a message of intolerance that could act as a precedent for future issues'. A petition calling for Frier's return to the ballot has amassed more than 17,500 signatures in less than a week Frier has said that he feels he has 'the right to be put on the ballot' and plans to attend the dance even if he doesn't end up on prom court. The petition called Schofield's interference 'an exposition of a transphobic attitude that endangers many.' The petition asked for 'Dex Frier to remain as a male member of Johnson High School's Prom Court.' Two competing petitions affirming Frier's exclusion have fewer than 100 signatures. Lisa Frier, Frier's grandmother and guardian, said her grandson shared with her more than a month ago that he had been nominated by his peers for prom king. 'They probably voted for him because he's amazingly talented, extremely diverse in many things, very engaging, very opinionated and smart. I believe that the group he associates with see value in that,' she said to NBC News. 'But perhaps, they are also trying to make a statement: "Let's be loving and kind and inclusive", which is what one of the school mottos is. The administration removing him from the ballot is not a representation of that whatsoever.' The prom is due to take place this Saturday evening. Frier has said that he feels he has 'the right to be put on the ballot' and plans to attend the dance even if he doesn't end up on prom court. In a state election that has been tipped to be one of the closest in decades, social media has been divided over one very important issue - but it's not what you think. More than four million people voted in the NSW state election on Saturday, but it wasn't who to choose as Premier that left people torn - but rather whose sausage sandwich was best. While voters everywhere enjoyed the Australian tradition of opting for a Democracy Sausage after casting their vote, the ritual has once again rehashed safety concerns. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured right) eats a sausage roll alongside Liberal candidate for East Hills Wendy Lindsay (left) during a visit to the Revesby Public School on Saturday Last year, the issue of onions being a slip hazard caused national outrage when Bunnings introduced its sausage sizzle safety rules. Under the controversial rules, those running charity BBQs were to serve onions underneath sausages so they didn't fall out and become a slipping hazard. Both NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Opposition Leader Michael Daley enjoyed a snag on Saturday, but each had very different views on how it should be served. Ms Berejiklian was first to share a pic of herself tucking into a snag at Willoughby Public School, in Sydney's north, along with the caption '#democracysausage time'. She ordered her sausage with onions and barbecue sauce, and it wasn't long before social media users were quick to question where the onions had been placed. Following her post, Twitter users were quick to slam the NSW premier for having onions on top of her sausage. It has been confirmed that Ms Berejiklian's sausage was eaten with onions under the sausage Opposition Leader Michael Daley found room to devour his sausage with: 'Onions on top' 'These two women have ONIONS ON TOP OF THE SANGER @Bunnings will be horrified,' one person wrote. 'Opppps..Onion on the top!' another person said. A third person added: 'Very dangerous.' Despite the backlash, it has since been confirmed Ms Berejiklian's sausage was eaten according to Bunnings' safety-first rules, with the onions being underneath. Mr Daley decided to cast his vote at Chifley Public School in Sydney's east, where he initially opted out of the Australian tradition and tucked into a meat pie instead. One onions-on-top user tweeted: 'And to those voting in the NSW election today, it's vitally important that you remember, the onion goes on top of the sausage' Another user who was against onions, tweeted: '#dogsatpollingstations with a side of #democracysausages served with onions on the bottom' When he finally decided to partake and devour a sausage on two pieces of bread, he shared a pic of himself on Twitter, along with the cheeky caption: 'Onions on top'. 'Perfectly done,' one Twitter user replied to the Opposition Leader's post. But it wasn't just the candidates who had a clear difference of opinion, with many social media users taking to Twitter to share pics of their preferred method. One onions-on-top user tweeted: 'And to those voting in the NSW election today, it's vitally important that you remember, the onion goes on top of the sausage.' Another user, who was against onions as a topping, tweeted: '#dogsatpollingstations with a side of #democracysausages served with onions on the bottom.' Voters across New South Wales enjoyed a Democracy Sausage in the sunshine on Saturday ahead of an election that's tipped to be one of the closest in decades Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison eats a sausage roll at the Sylvania Heights Public School, on 2019 New South Wales election day in Sydney This person opted to have their Democracy Sausage served with controversial onions on top Social media has been flooded with posts featuring #democracysausage as New South Wales residents hit the polling booths All snags aside, Ms Berejiklian is on Saturday aiming to become the first popularly-elected female Premier in NSW history - and based on the latest polls, this is now a distinct possibility. 'It's going to be really really tight and I think today the people will decide for themselves but I don't want to see NSW go backwards,' she told Today. 'We're building for the future now, we've got a strong economy, we're helping taking pressure off families and that's where I want to see NSW [go] into the future.' Speaking to Sydney Morning Herald outside Chifley Public School, Mr Daley said the polls had been tight. Voting was underway at Timbumburi Public School (pictured), the school was promoting the Democracy Sausage NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian stuck with the Australian tradition by eating a sausage after casting her vote on Saturday '(It was) easier 30 years ago when the voting patterns were different. People chop and change - that's not a bad thing. You have to work harder for that vote.' Nearly 1.1 million people took advantage of early voting, with about one-in-five making their decision at pre-poll centres or via the post, internet or telephone. A special Newspoll, published in The Weekend Australian, suggested the coalition is ahead of Labor 51-49 on a two-party preferred basis. A similar result at the election would see Ms Berejiklian lose six seats, meaning she would need the support of at least one independent from the crossbench to form a government. Michael Daley (pictured) partakes in a Democracy Sausage on Saturday after rising early to vote Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison cooks sausages with daughter Lily (centre) alongside the NSW Liberal candidate for Miranda, Eleni Petinos at the Sylvania Heights Public School, on 2019 New South Wales election day If the Coalition win on Saturday, it would be the first time since 1971 that a Liberal Party-led government in NSW had won a third consecutive term and Ms Berejiklian would become the first popularly elected female premier in NSW history. The Newspoll showed the Coalition has lost support outside Sydney, with a six per cent slump in primary-vote support to 39 per cent, deadlocking it with Labor at 50-50 on a two-party-preferred basis. Ms Berejiklian leads Labor leader Michael Daley 43 to 35 as preferred premier, but 22 per cent of voters remained uncommitted. Mr Daley's disapproval rating rose nine points from 38 per cent to 47 and his satisfaction rating dropped five points from 37 to 32. Voters got their hands on Democracy Sausages on offer across New South Wales on Saturday Drivers who promise to give up their cars will be given 3,000 a year as part of a scheme to reduce pollution. A pilot scheme, which will be launched in Coventry, West Midlands, later this year, will see motorists given cash credits for public transport, electric car and bike hire. Those who agree to leave their cars at home are set to gain as much as 3,000 a year, according to a report in The Times. Drivers who promise to leave their cars on their driveways will be given 3,000 a year as part of a scheme to reduce pollution The plans were approved by the West Midlands Combined Authority on Friday and will see credit added to a smart card with the aim of encouraging motorists to 'give up their private vehicles in exchange for a limited time period of support'. Documents presented at the meeting said the aim was to 'stimulate a long-term sustainable shift in travel behaviour' among drivers, who will be asked to surrender their car for a period. John Seddon, head of transport and innovation at Coventry City Council, told the newspaper around 100 people would initially take part in the trial, funded by a 20 million Department for Transport award. 'We see it as a variant of scrappage schemes of the past but rather than trading in an old car for a newer one, it is trading in the car for the ability to use other modes of transport,' he told the paper. A pilot scheme, which will be launched in Coventry, West Midlands (city centre pictured) later this year, will see motorists given cash credits for public transport, electric car and bike hire 'For it to be fully effective we would want people to make the commitment where the car was at least surrendered for a particular time.' In London, Mayor Sadiq Khan has launched a huge crackdown on vehicle emissions, with steep charges for high-polluting vehicles to be introduced next month. From April 8 anyone with a car that does not meet new emission standards will be charged 12.50 to drive through central London, on top of the existing 11.50 congestion charge. There are also plans to extend the capital's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to the North and South Circular Roads in 2021. A man has admitted to taking speed, merging onto the opposite side of a highway and mounting a concrete barrier in a bid to avoid paying a toll. Frank Mollica, 47, drove his ute up the exit-ramp on the M5 highway near Hammondville in Sydney's south-west during peak hour traffic on Saturday morning. After driving around 10kms into oncoming traffic, the brick-layer then scaled the concrete barrier trying to avoid another toll. The silver Volkswagon ute suddenly tilted sideways before two of the wheels lifted into the air, leaving Mr Mollica airborne and stuck. In an attempt to avoid tolls, a Sydney man mounted his silver Volkswagon ute onto a concrete barrier on the M5 highaway and drove onto oncoming traffic on Saturday morning Frank Mollica, 47, (pictured) said he drove his ute up the exit-ramp on the highway near Hammondville in Sydney's south-west during peak hour traffic and mounted his vehicle along the barrier Despite the severity of the crash however, Mr Mollica, who lives in Georges Hall, appeared nonchalant. 'I got on about four tollways ago and I was trying to avoid the toll,' he casually told 7 News. He then said he had tried to mount the 'little bit in the middle' but it hadn't worked. 'I don't know how I got up here, I was trying to jump it really,' he said. Mr Mollica said he had tried to mount 'the little bit in the middle' to avoid the oncoming toll but it hadn't worked Traffic piled up around the incident, which Mr Mollica seemed unphased with creating 'I'm surprised I survived it,' he told Nine News. Inspector Phil Brooks from Highway Traffic and Control said it was one of the most 'grave and dangerous events' that they had seen in a very long time. Mr Mollica also admitted to both police and reporters that he had taken illicit drugs before he got behind the wheel. '[I've taken] a bit of speed in the last two days at a party,'. Mr Mollica was arrested and taken to Bankstown Hospital where he underwent several blood and urine tests. He is expected to face several traffic offences including dangerous driving. An Australian citizen and army major is begging authorities to let his 29-year-old British daughter to stay in Australia while he fights a terminal cancer diagnosis. Arthur Hall, 57, has called Australia home for more than a decade after he was offered a job to serve in the national army. But the decorated war veteran, who has been diagnosed with incurable bone cancer, is battling with the Australian government to let his daughter, Jennifer, stay. Mr Hall, who was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire from the Queen, spent 22 years serving for the UK armed forces before moving to Australia. Australian citizen and army major Arthur Hall (left) is begging authorities to let his 29-year-old British daughter (right) to stay in Australia while he fights a terminal cancer diagnosis The Australian Army called him explaining they needed aircraft engineers after they learnt he was leaving the British Army. Mr Hall decided it was 'time to do the call of duty again' and moved to Australia with his then 13-year-old son Sam - who has since followed in his footsteps by serving in the army. The father-and-son quickly received Australian citizenship while his then 16-year-old daughter Jennifer stayed in the UK to complete her studies. After completing her education and becoming a qualified dental nurse, Jennifer decided she wanted to be in Australia with her brother and father. 'I came to Australia in January 2015 on a Subclass 417 Working Holiday Visa to reunite with my father and brother, both of whom are Australian citizens, serving in the Australian Regular Army,' Jennifer wrote on Change.org. 'My father is a proud Australian War Veteran.' Mr Hall, who was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire from the Queen (pictured), spent 22 years serving for the UK armed forces before moving to Australia To stay in Australia, Jennifer began studying at the Canberra Institute of Technology on a Subclass 500 Student Visa in February 2017. She completed a Certificate III in Business, Certificate III in Accounts Administration and a Certificate IV in Accounting, which she claims allowed her to further invest in her future as the qualifications are recognised in Australia. Jennifer then applied for permanent residency but her request was declined. 'In June 2018, I submitted a request for Ministerial Intervention, asking the minister to grant me permanent residency so I could remain in Australia with my family,' she wrote. 'This request was declined by Minister David Coleman on February 28 2019, almost eight months later.' After completing her education and becoming a qualified dental nurse, Jennifer (left) decided she wanted to be in Australia with her brother and father 'The letter received simply cited ''that it would not be in the public interest to intervene''.' The terminal diagnosis of her father has left Jennifer more determined than ever to become an Australian resident. 'I would be the proudest person ever to be able to say, I'm an Australian,' Jennifer told A Current Affair. Mr Hall said he felt he was having 'everything taken away' and wants nothing more than to have his daughter with him in Australia. 'I would be the proudest person ever to be able to say, I'm an Australian,' Jennifer told A Current Affair 'I'm 57 years old now. It'd mean more to me to have my daughter get her residency than for them to say to me, ''we've got a cure'',' he said. 'I'm coming to the end of my life, really, she's just in the beginning of hers.' The family have launched a Change.org petition to rally support for Jennifer to stay in Australia. The petition has a goal of 10,000 signatures and has already tallied more than 8,500. Great Scotland Yard has been converted into a luxury five-star hotel with rooms expecting to go for up to 10,000 a night. A billionaire tycoon, Yusuff Ali, has completed the 75million makeover of the former HQ of the Metropolitan Police. His Abu Dhabi-based company, Lulu Group International - whose annual turnover is 5.6billion, oversaw the renovation of the building into 153 rooms. Great Scotland Yard has been converted into a luxury five-star hotel with rooms expecting to go for up to 10,000 a night The hotel includes a secret whiskey bar (pictured) as well as artwork by prisoners and converted cells Some of the suites feature views of Westminster Abbey, Nelson's Column and Buckingham Palace. Great Scotland Yard was chosen by former prime minister, Sir Robert Peel, as the headquarters for the Met police when it was formed in 1829 and until it moved to New Scotland Yard in 1890. The history of the building hasn't been lost during the renovation and certain features give a subtle nod to infamous criminals from the past. A large chandelier made up of glass shards refers to the Forty Elephants, a 19th-century gang of female thieves that would smash jewellery shop windows to steal the goods inside. Old police cells have been turned into meeting rooms and workspace areas that can be rented. Billionaire tycoon, Yusuff Ali, has completed the 75million makeover of the former HQ of the Metropolitan Police. Pictured is a sketch from a magazine in 1884 showing an explosion at Great Scotland Yard Guests will be able to make use of a secret whiskey bar, a tea parlour, a ballroom and a restaurant. Restaurateur Robin Gill, who trained under Marco Pierre White, acted as a consultant on the Great Scotland Yard project to select and place their Executive Chef Alex Harper. Decorations include military uniforms and artwork by prisoners. The hotel is due to open this year and will be operated by the Hyatt group, joining the company's luxurious Unbound Collection as the first of its kind in the UK. Unbound Collection hotels, which currently operate in the US, Continental Europe and Asia, are known for their luxury and grandeur. ISIS has lost its final stronghold in Syria according to the US-backed forces in a desperate stand which saw women deployed, but its leader remains elusive. Syrian Democratic Forces declared a 'total elimination' of the jihadist group on Saturday morning after flushing out suicidal jihadists from the holdout in Baghouz, eastern Syria. The terrorist group's bloody last stand saw male and female fanatics hiding in caves as US-backed forces rained down an overnight barrage on Thursday. The world's most wanted man Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who declared himself the tyrant of the regime in 2014, was apparently not among their number. Nicknamed 'The Ghost', Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, last appeared in public to deliver this sermon at Mosul's famed Al-Nuri mosque in 2014 declaring himself 'caliph' Footage released by ISIS appears to show burqa-clad women firing AK-47s at SDF forces during the final days of the so-called caliphate Pictured: smoke rising from the final stronghold of ISIS in Baghouz, eastern Syria, earlier this week The 47-year-old Iraqi recluse, who suffers from diabetes, has been rumoured to have been wounded or killed several times in the past. But his whereabouts have never been confirmed and a $25million price remains for his scalp. 'He only has three companions: his older brother Jumaa, his driver and bodyguard Abdullatif al-Jubury, whom he has known since childhood, and his courier Saud al-Kurdi,' said Hisham al-Hashemi, an Iraqi specialist in IS. Hashemi said the quartet is likely laying low somewhere in Syria's vast Badia desert, which stretches from the eastern border with Iraq to the sweeping province of Homs. That is where his son Hudhayfa al-Badri was reportedly killed in July by three Russian guided missiles, he added. Nicknamed 'The Ghost', he has not appeared in public since he delivered a sermon at Mosul's famed Al-Nuri mosque in 2014 declaring himself 'caliph'. His last voice recording to his supporters was released in August, eight months after Iraq announced it had defeated IS and as US-backed forces closed in next door in Syria. But as the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces pressed the 'final battle' against IS's last sliver of territory, a spokesman for the US-backed group said the elusive leader was likely not there. 'We do not think he is in Syria,' Mustafa Bali said. Keeping a low profile - in contrast to slain Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden - has helped Baghdadi survive for years. Born Ibrahim Awad al-Badri in 1971, the passionate football fan came from modest beginnings in Samarra, north of Baghdad. His school results prevented him studying law and his poor eyesight stopped him joining the army, so he moved to the Baghdad district of Tobchi to study Islam. Al-Baghdadi is not thought to be in Syria by the US-backed SDF forces - a recording purportedly of his voice surfaced in August addressing his followers (pictured in 2014) Al-Baghdadi is accused of keeping sex slaves, including a pre-teen Yazidi girl and US aid worker Kayla Mueller, who was subsequently killed 'He had a vision, early on, of where he wanted to go and what kind of organisation he wanted to create,' said Sofia Amara, author of a 2017 documentary that unveiled exclusive documents on Baghdadi. After US-led forces invaded Iraq in 2003, he founded his own insurgent organisation but never carried out major attacks. When he was arrested and held in a US detention facility in southern Iraq in February 2004, he was still very much a lower tier jihadist. But it was Camp Bucca - later dubbed 'the University of Jihad' - where Baghdadi came of age as a jihadist. 'People there realised that this nobody, this shy guy was an astute strategist,' Amara said. He was released at the end of 2004 for lack of evidence. Iraqi security services arrested him twice subsequently, in 2007 and 2012, but let him go because they did not know who he was. In 2005, the father-of-five from two different wives pledged allegiance to Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the brutal leader of Iraq's Al-Qaeda franchise. Zarqawi was killed by an American drone strike in 2006, and after his successor was also eliminated, Baghdadi took the helm in 2010. He revived the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI), expanded into Syria in 2013 and declared independence from Al-Qaeda. In the following years, Baghdadi's Islamic State group captured swathes of territory, set up a brutal system of government, and inspired thousands to join the 'caliphate' from abroad. Baghdadi was raised in a family divided between a religious clan and officers loyal to Saddam's secular Baath party. Years later, his jihadist group incorporated ex-Baathists, capitalising on the bitterness many officers felt after the American move to dissolve the Iraqi army in 2003. President Donald Trump declared victory over the self-declared caliphate yesterday, holding this upside down map showing the territory held by ISIS on election day versus Friday Pictured: US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces stand in front of their flag in Baghouz, east Syria, after eliminating the jihadist group in the area Until now, women have been stopped from joining ISIS forces on the frontline as it is considered taboo That gave his leadership the military legitimacy he personally lacked and formed a solid backbone of what was to become IS, combining extreme religious propaganda with ferocious guerrilla efficiency. Uncharismatic and an average orator, Baghdadi was described by his repudiated ex-wife Saja al-Dulaimi, who now lives in Lebanon, as a 'normal family man' who was good with children. He is thought to have had three wives in total, Iraqi Asma al-Kubaysi, Syrian Isra al-Qaysi and another, more recently, from the Gulf. He has been accused of repeatedly raping girls and women he kept as 'sex slaves', including a pre-teen Yazidi girl and US aid worker Kayla Mueller, who was subsequently killed. President Donald Trump declared victory over the vicious regime yesterday. After showing off an upside down before-and-after map of the area comparing their territory on Election Day versus Friday, he handed the paper to a journalist, saying, 'You guys can have the map. Congratulations. You'll spread it around?' In the final days of the caliphate, official footage released by ISIS appears to show women in burqas firing AK-47s at the SDF. Until now, women have been stopped from joining ISIS forces on the frontline as it is considered taboo. Devorah Margolin, a war studies analyst at King's College London, told the Telegraph: 'Isil has always been adamant that women should participate in violence only under circumstances of 'defensive jihad', or in simpler terms only when Muslim lands are under attack and it is strategically necessary. 'The loss of physical territory for them really seems to have been the final straw.' Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces, tweeted that 'Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved', referring to the group by its Arabic acronym. The terrorist group's bloody last stand saw fanatics hiding in caves as US-backed forces launched airstrikes (pictured yesterday) Pictured: ISIS weapons seized by Syrian Democratic Forces. Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces, tweeted that 'Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved' Bali said the so-called caliphate is gone, and pledged to continue the fight against remnants of the extremist group until they are completely eradicated. Prime Minister Theresa May said the fall of the last bastion held by ISIS marked 'a historic milestone' as she paid tribute to British forces and coalition partners. 'The liberation of the last (IS)-held territory is a historic milestone that would not have been possible without their commitment, professionalism and courage,' she said in a statement. British forces will not scale-back their presence in Syria and Iraq following the capture of the last remaining territory. Britain has committed nearly 1,400 military personnel to the region to support local forces, while the Royal Air Force has conducted more than 1,600 air strikes in Iraq and Syria, according to government figures. More than 630 civilians were killed in the six-month operation against the Islamic State group that culminated in its defeat. The civilian dead - among them relatives of IS fighters - included 209 children and 157 women, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group has said. The Britain-based Observatory said the operation had cost the lives of 730 SDF fighters while 1,600 jihadists were also killed. The announcement marks the end of a four-and-a-half year campaign by an array of forces against the extremist group, which at its height in 2014 ruled an area the size of the United Kingdom, including several major cities and towns. The group no longer controls any territory in Syria or Iraq, but continues to carry out insurgent attacks in both countries. It also maintains affiliates in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan and elsewhere. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been forced to delay their move to Frogmore Cottage due to last-minute design changes. Meghan, 37, and Harry, 34, were due to move into Frogmore Cottage, Windsor, this week, but workmen are still on-site. They could be waiting another four weeks, which would mean the heavily-pregnant Duchess would move in just days before giving birth. Meghan, 37, and Harry, 34 (pictured at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abey on March 11) are believed to have delayed their move to Frogmore Cottage in Windsor as workmen are still carrying out last-minute design changes Workmen are pictured on the roof of Frogmore Cottage making last-minute changes to the property ahead of the move Frogmore Cottage is pictured while workmen rush to finish last-minute changes to the royal couple's new home A royal source told The Sun: 'It's been all hands to the pump. The builders have worked all week whatever the weather. But they keep making changes, particularly on the layout. 'The word is they've been quite demanding, which is understandable as what homeowner doesn't want their house to be perfect?' It has been reported that the couple are moving 'in the spring - hopefully before the birth' of the new royal baby, but a Kensington Palace spokesman said they would not comment any further. The Frogmore renovations have seen interior walls knocked down to create a five-bedroom property with en-suite bathrooms and a huge kitchen-diner space. The royal couple have already moved out of their Kensington Palace cottage, sparking rumours of a rift between them and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The latest reports claim the couple have been offered an apartment at Buckingham Palace in the interim after its 369million renovation. When finished, the new-look Frogmore Cottage will have views of Windsor Great Park and Frogmore House, where the couple had their wedding reception last year They will be the first royals in recent history to go without a London base when they finally do make the move to Windsor. When finished, the new-look Frogmore Cottage will have views of Windsor Great Park and Frogmore House, where the couple had their wedding reception last year. It was confirmed this week the Duchess will give birth to her first baby on the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in London after reports she could break with tradition and choose another location. It was suggested she would opt for the US-owned hospital The Portland or one closer to their new Windsor home such as Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey. But a source told the Evening Standard yesterday: 'Having weighed up the options, and in acknowledgement of its place in royal tradition, they consider it the superior choice'. The Frogmore Cottage (pictured) renovations have seen interior walls knocked down to create a five-bedroom property with en-suite bathrooms and a huge kitchen-diner space Victims of sexual assault may be less likely to come forward if personal information from their phones is shared as evidence in court, over fears they may be blamed for their attack in the 'digital equivalent of a short skirt'. Sara Thornton, chairwoman of the National Police Chiefs' Council, said evidence disclosure is important, but insists that officers must balance that against the risk of discouraging victims. Charges and prosecutions for sexual offences remain below average when compared to other crimes in the UK. Last year, police forces were hit by several cases where errors in evidence disclosure led to the collapse of sexual assault trials. Sara Thornton, chairwoman of the National Police Chiefs' Council, says victims of sexual assault may be discouraged if their personal phone data is shared in court Ms Thornton told The Times: 'We don't want this to make victims feel that they can't report offences because they fear the intrusion into their private life and their private information because they fear that that will either be shared by the defence inappropriately or be dealt with in court. 'That's where we came to the equivalent of the digital short skirt this idea that we must be reassuring victims that information which is nothing to do with the case would never be used to discredit them in the way that the idea of a woman's dress in some way [is used to suggest] she's responsible.' More than 900 criminal cases were dropped in 2017 due to a failure by police or prosecutors to disclose evidence. The series of failures led former Lord Chief Justice, Igor Judge, to warn that juries may start to think they have not been shown all the evidence, and victims to not come forward. In 2018, dozens of prosecutions for rape or serious sexual offences were thwarted because of issues with the disclosure of material. The cases led to accusations that police officers were 'cherry picking' evidence in order to force a conviction and create a narrative. These events led to widespread scrutiny on the police and calls for improvements in the process. However, while acknowledging he need for police to do better, Ms Thornton has warned of the risk of disclosing too much personal information, which may leave victims too scared to come forward and share evidence. She added: 'It's essential that investigators are open-minded and fair, they have a duty to be fair.' An alleged far-right extremist has been charged in Sydney with threatening a Melbourne lawyer and journalist who had written about him. Nathan Sykes, 50, was arrested at his Brighton-Le-Sands home on Friday morning and taken to Newtown police station where he was charged with multiple offences. He is charged with three counts of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence; and two counts of using a carriage service to threaten serious harm. Nathan Sykes, 50 (pictured), was arrested at his Brighton-Le-Sands home on Friday morning and taken to Newtown police station where he was charged with multiple offences Sykes (pictured), trying to conceal his identity with a piece of paper as he walked through Newtown, revealed large rings on each finger of his right hand Sykes is allegedly a lieutenant of Australia's most prominent white supremacist Jim Saleam, Fairfax reported. He was arrested over allegations he made repeated and explicit violent threats to Melbourne lawyer and journalist Luke McMahon. Mr McMahon in 2017 claimed Sykes had used pseudonyms to harass left-wing and Muslim activists on social media and contribute to neo-Nazi website Daily Stormer. The 50-year-old is alleged to have also left Mr McMahon a series of threatening messages, which were recorded, The Age reported. In one of the recordings, Skyes allegedly threatens Mr McMahon, saying: 'I'm going to torture you to an absolute delight little Lukey Luke. 'I have people looking at you right now, staring at you from across the f***ing street from where you live, enjoy this mother-f***er,' the recorded voice stated. Sykes (pictured) is allegedly a lieutenant of Australia's most prominent white supremacist Jim Saleam, according to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age Sykes was granted strict bail on Friday on the condition he doesn't travel to Victoria, doesn't contact the alleged victim and he surrenders his passport to NSW Police. As he was leaving the police station, Sykes was asked by a reporter if he'd threatened McMahon. 'No, I was harassed by a troll,' he replied. Asked the same question again he replied: 'If that guy's a journalist, mate, I'm a goddamn rocket scientist.' Sykes, trying to conceal his identity with a piece of paper as he walked through Newtown, revealed large rings on each finger of his right hand. Sykes (pictured) was granted strict bail on Friday on the condition he doesn't travel to Victoria, doesn't contact the alleged victim and he surrenders his passport to NSW Police As he was leaving the police station (pictured), Sykes was asked by a reporter if he'd threatened McMahon. He replied: 'No, I was harassed by a troll' One ring bore the Iron Cross, a symbol often associated with the German military during the Nazi era. Another ring featured the logo of the Golden Dawn, a Greek ultra-nationalist political movement. Sykes' arrest came after former NSW Police Force deputy commissioner Nick Kaldas claimed policing agencies were failing to effectively monitor the growth of right-wing extremists. However, senior NSW police sources reportedly told the publication they were effectively targeting multiple far-right threats. Sykes is due to face Newtown Local Court on April 4. Millions of Britons have effectively no protection against the Omicron Covid variant, health experts have warned as the public was urged to get their booster jabs to avoid overwhelming the health service this Christmas. The highly-transmissible mutant strain is likely to make up most cases of Covid in Britain over the next two weeks, the UK Health Security Agency said in a report yesterday, and could reach one million infections by the end of this month. While Covid booster jabs have been shown to be effective against Omicron, there are concerns that the millions of people who are yet to get their third inoculation could be unprotected against the virus without it. Government scientists compared 581 cases of Omicron in Britain with 56,000 of Delta to give preliminary estimates of how well vaccines protect against a variant with mutations that help it evade the body's immune response. They found that the mostly elderly people who had two doses of AstraZeneca several months ago had almost no protection against Omicron infection, and two Pfizer doses offered little more than 30 per cent. But a third dose, if using Pfizer, can take protection levels back up to 71 per cent in those who had AstraZeneca the first time around and 76 per cent for those who had Pfizer. Hundreds of thousands of chickens may need to be destroyed after one of Australia's 'most significant salmonella outbreaks' sparked a massive egg recall on Thursday. The eggs were pulled from shelves across Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, South Australia and the ACT after salmonella-related illnesses were linked with the Bridgewater Poultry farm in central Victoria. The farm was placed under a strict quarantine in a bid to stop the strain from spreading any further - but the next step will likely involve an enormous chicken cull. Bridgewater Poultry in central Victoria (pictured) has been placed under a strict quarantine after a salmonella outbreak was linked to the farm - causing a nationwide egg recall on Thursday The severity of the outbreak may lead to a massive chicken cull at the farm (stock image) 'We immediately put in place quarantine notices to prevent birds or machinery from leaving the premises, and also a food safety notice to ensure no eggs went into the food chain,' Victoria's chief vet Dr Charles Milne told ABC News. LIST OF RECALLED EGGS Woolworths 12 Cage Free Eggs 700g Victorian Fresh Barn Laid Eggs 600g Victorian Fresh Barn Laid Eggs 700g Victorian Fresh Barn Laid Eggs 800g Loddon Valley Barn Laid 600g Affected eggs have best-before dates of March 20, March 23, March 27, March 30, April 3, April 6, April 10, April 14, April 17, April 20, April 24, April 27, April 29= Advertisement 'The farm will [now] be managed in line with an industry-owned response plan and that will almost certainly involve the slaughter of the birds.' Dr Milne said three of nine sheds on the property were likely to be affected by the outbreak and all chickens found inside that shed would need to be killed. However, the cull could very well extend to the entire farm if authorities feel the salmonella outbreak has spread across the grounds. This decision could ultimately bring the industry to a halt and will most likely jack up prices of eggs. Though it is said the farm is well organised and it would be likely there'd only be between 150,000 and 200,000 birds affected. The strain of salmonella is said to be the most significant example seen in Australia. 'This is the first real major commercial farm it is unusual, most salmonellas are surface contaminates of eggs, but this particular strain can pass the disease vertically inside the egg,' Dr Milne said. Vets will visit the farm on Monday to investigate the extent of the outbreak. Bridgewater Poultry are currently working with authorities to determine whether the salmonella strain is linked with the recent outbreak in Sydney earlier this year. The latest strain has caused five people to be struck down, Victoria Health confirmed on Friday. This salmonella strain is one of the most 'significant' seen in Australia, says Victoria's chief vet Dr Charles Milne (Pictured: Victorian Fresh Eggs - part of the egg recall) The illness date back to January and could be linked to eggs produced by Bridgewater Poultry. Two people were hospitalised but have since been released. Ages of the patients range from their 20s through to their 80s and authorities fear more patients could be stuck down by the salmonella enteritidis strain, which is rarely found in Victoria. The latest recall has ignited further debate around more significant warnings telling consumers of the risk of salmonella when consuming raw eggs. The salmonella bacteria is killed once an egg is properly cooked. Advertisement Yellow Vest protesters caused havoc on the streets France today, with one video from Rouen showing a group of demonstrators knocking over a portable building. Other snaps from Montpellier show angry protesters smashing tram stops and setting fires in the streets in front of riot gear-clad police. Thousands of police fanned out across central Paris and other French cities today, with the government vowing to prevent a repeat of the rioting and looting seen in the capital last week. An estimated 8,300 people had turned out for today's protests across France by 1pm, including 3,100 in Paris, the interior ministry said. The figures suggest a marked drop from last weekend, when officials counted 14,500 demonstrators by mid-afternoon in France, with 10,000 in Paris, the scene of rioting and looting on the Champs-Elysees. In recent weeks, the protesters' numbers have dwindled, falling from 282,000 nationwide on the first Saturday to just 32,000 last week, according to official estimates. But those still on the streets appear more determined than ever to make their presence felt. Unruly yellow vest protestors tipped over a portable building in Rouen today, as an estimated 8,300 people turned out across France to participate - with those still on the streets appearing more determined than ever to make their presence felt In recent weeks, the protesters' numbers have dwindled, falling from 282,000 nationwide on the first Saturday to just 32,000 last week, according to official estimates. But those still on the streets managed to cause some disruption, with several protestors in Rouen tipping over a portable building Anti-riot police officers stand guard in front of a fire during clashes with yellow vest protestors taking part in an anti-government demonstration in Montpellier today Protesters from the 'Gilets Jaunes' (yellow vests) movement clash with French anti-riot police near Montmartre near Paris In recent weeks, the protesters' numbers have dwindled, falling from 282,000 nationwide on the first Saturday to just 32,000 last week One angry Yellow Vest protester broke the glass at a tram stop with a stone at a demonstration in Montpellier in southern France Pictured: a protester clashes with riot police outside a restaurant in Nice today - despite protest bans being in effect in the city Yellow Vest protesters were pictured gathering outside of the Sacre Coeur Basilica in Montmartre today Photos from Paris show French Army soldiers, who have been redeployed from its Sentinelle anti-terror force, near the Eiffel Tower today A Yellow Vest protester waving a rainbow flag was knocked to the ground during a stampede in Nice today, as armed police put Paris' famous Champs-Elysees avenue into lockdown. Shocking photos from the 19th week of anti-Macron violence across France show a group of protesters running from a police cordon outside of a restaurant. A silver-haired protester is knocked to the ground in the rush to get away from police in riot gear. Yesterday, the military governor of Paris General Bruno Leray said French soldiers would be permitted to 'open fire' if lives are threatened by Yellow Vest rioters. General Leray told Franceinfo Radio: 'If their life or that of the people they defend is threatened, they can go up to opening fire.' The move drew fierce criticism from opposition parties, who have accused the government of playing with fire. President Macron later insisted that soldiers, who have been redeployed from its Sentinelle anti-terror force to guard public buildings, would not be forced to turn their guns on protesters. He told Franceinfo: 'The soldiers are perfectly capable of appraising the nature of the threat and responding in a proportionate manner.' Paris police said they detained 51 people by early afternoon, issued 29 fines and conducted 4,688 'preventive checks' on protesters entering the capital. The crowd gathered peacefully Saturday at Denfert-Rochereau Square in southern Paris and then headed north. The protesters are expected to finish Saturday's march in the tourist-heavy neighborhood of Montmartre around its signature monument, the hilltop Sacre-Coeur Cathedral. But banks and other businesses remained shut in several parts of the city, their windows protected with planks of wood, and some schools had cancelled Saturday classes in anticipation of further violence. Dozens of police vehicles, including armoured trucks and water cannons, encircled the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the iconic avenue today, with officers searching people's bags and patrolling in front of boarded-up storefronts. Authorities have banned demonstrations in a large area in the west of the city, which was the scene of last week's rampage by hundreds of black-clad agitators. At the opposite end of the avenue access was completely blocked to the Place de la Concorde, near the presidential palace and the National Assembly, and two drones were flying over the capital to help officers track any protesters' movements. Yellow Vest protesters took to the streets in Nice in south east France today, including this woman holding a rainbow flag In the rush to get away from a police cordon outside of a restaurant, the silver-haired protester was knocked to the ground As protesters were banned from Champs-Elysees avenue, Yellow Vest demonstrators marched past the Notre-Dame in Paris today One Yellow Vest marcher was seen holding this angry looking picture of president Emmanuel Macron #GiletsJaunes Une femme a ete blessee a #Nice dans le mouvement de foule provoque par levacuation de la Place Garibaldi par les CRS. Elle a ete evacuee par les pompiers. Il reste une dizaine de "gilets jaunes" Place Garibaldi. IMAGEShttps://t.co/EBSQTs5idv pic.twitter.com/oUHKz0MFLn France 3 Cote d'Azur (@F3cotedazur) March 23, 2019 Protest bans were also in effect in the centres of Toulouse, Bordeaux, Dijon, Rennes and the southern city of Nice, where Chinese President Xi Jinping is to meet his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron this weekend. Macron is under pressure to avoid a repeat of last week's sacking of the Champs-Elysees, where over 100 shops were damaged, looted or set alight during seven hours of rioting by mainly masked, black-clad protesters. On social media, several 'yellow vest' leaders urged caution for Saturday, warning demonstrators against appearing to countenance the violence by far-left or far-right infiltrators. In a YouTube post, truck driver Eric Drouet called on protesters not to try to return to the Champs-Elysees. 'It's a very, very bad idea. You know what image they're trying to create of us,' he said, predicting a 'quiet Saturday'. Macron's government drew fierce criticism over its handling of last week's protests, when police appeared to hang back during the wave of rioting and vandalism that swept the Champs-Elysees. Analysts say the authorities may have been reluctant to engage the rioters after the dozens of injuries sustained by participants in previous protests. But this week officials vowed 'zero tolerance' for more violence. Champs-Elysees, pictured, went into lockdown today ahead of the 19th week of Yellow Vest protests Bold protesters declared Champs-Elysees the Yellow Vests avenue ahead of expected protests today Pictured: anti-riot police officers standing over a protester who has fallen to the round near Garibaldi Square in Nice 'He needs to show the world that the government has a handle on the country and on the capital,' said Sylvian, the leader of a team of repair workers still clearing away debris on the avenue on Friday. The Paris police chief was fired over his handling of the violence, which saw dozens of windows shattered by people hurling paving stones and wielding hammers and other makeshift weapons. The protests began in rural France on November 17 over fuel tax increases and quickly ballooned into a full-scale anti-government rebellion that two months of public policy debates have failed to defuse. In a Facebook video this week, Maxime Nicolle one of the movement's figureheads, explained the periodic rioting in Paris and other cities as the result of '40 years of being beaten psychologically and financially' by successive governments. 'It's a bit as if a battered woman beats up her boyfriend and you say she's the violent one,' he said. The violence has cost the protesters much of the public support they enjoyed early in the movement, which seeks higher taxes on the rich and a greater say for ordinary people in the running of the country. Some 53 percent of respondents said they either supported or felt a degree of sympathy towards the movement, down eight points in a week, according to a poll released Wednesday. Pictured: anti-riot police blocking access to Garibaldi Square in downtown Nice during Yellow Vest protests today A water cannon was put in place on Champs-Elysees today, despite authorities banning protests in the area Famous Parisian restaurant Le Fouquet's, which was set alight by protesters last week, was boarded up today A teenage boy was stabbed in the back during a mass brawl that broke out in Norwich last night, an hour before a 17-year-old boy was stabbed to death in London. The boy was rushed to hospital with knife wounds, while two other teenage boys were arrested in connection with the stabbing. Emergency services rushed to the scene after police received reports of a fight between 10 youths in Mountbatten Drive, Norwich at 9.25pm. A teenage boy was stabbed in the back during a mass brawl between ten people in Norwich last night. The boy was rushed to hospital and two other teenagers have been arrested in connection with the stabbing and are being questioned by police It comes as British is battling with a knife crime epidemic which has seen 42 deaths across the country so far this year - with 12 happening in the space of just two weeks. Britain's murder rates have soared to the highest number in a decade and knife crime has increased by eight per cent. Scotland Yard have unveiled new plans to tackle knife crime by carrying out 1,000 stop and searches every day. A tent has been erected outside a block of flats in Isleworth, west London where a 17-year-old boy was found stabbed to death last night A spokesman for Norfolk Police said: 'Police have arrested two people following an incident in Norwich on Friday 22 March 2019. 'Officers were called to reports of a disturbance involving up to ten youths in Mountbatten Drive at 9.25pm. 'During the incident a boy, aged in his late teens, suffered stab wounds to his back. 'He was taken to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital for treatment; however, his injuries are not believed to be life threatening. 'Two males, aged in their late teens and from the Norwich area, have since been arrested in connection with the incident and have been taken into custody where they will be questioned later today. 'Enquiries are ongoing and anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or anyone with information, should contact Sergeant Pete Wilson at Norwich CID on 101. 'Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.' The boy, believed to be 17, was stabbed to death outside a block of flats on Union Lane, Isleworth, west London (scene pictured) Jodie Chesney and Yousef Makki, both 17, were stabbed to death during one violence-filled weekend earlier this month. Just last week a 19-year-old boy was rushed to hospital with serious injuries after he was stabbed outside a DLR station in Lewisham, London. A few days ago a 14-year-old boy tried to slash a classmate's face with a meat cleaver in Brent, London. Chancellor Philip Hammond has announced a 100million funding package to tackle Britain's knife crime crisis. Facebooks vice president of Product Management was given a new title for less than a day after posting an update on the Christchurch massacre. Guy Rosen's name appeared at the top of the update about how Facebook was used to circulate the live video of the massacre, and what they were doing to combat it. But the update appeared with a new title for Rosen - Head of Integrity - which was quickly changed back when called out by a journalist. Guardian tech journalist Alex Hern noticed the change and tweeted about it whilst several other media outlets, including Venturebeat and Global News Canada, ran the story with Rosen's new title. A picture taken from Facebook showing the company's VP of Product Management, Guy Rosen The journalist tweeted: 'Facebook exec Guy Rosen is usually referred to as VP of Product Management. Yesterday, his statement on Christchurch came as Head of Integrity. 'I asked whether hed been promoted, and they silently edited the post back to 'VP of Product Management'.' Hern asked of Facebook in a follow-up tweet: 'Why must they be like this'. A tweet from a tech journalist from the Guardian, questioning Rosen's change in title Updated version of the Facebook release, showing Guy Rosen as VP for Product Management A cached version of the update published by Facebook confirms the gaffe, while the current version does indeed list Rosen as his original title - VP of Product Management. 'We recognize that the immediacy of Facebook Live brings unique challenges,' said the statement, referring to the fact that the person responsible for killing 50 people at two mosques used the service to stream his attack on March 15. During live videos Facebook only offers the option for viewers to report content that may show 'suicide', but there is no button to flag 'murder' to moderators. Facebook said that even still, the video was viewed about 4,000 times in total before being removed and that they culled more than 1.2 million videos of the attack at upload within 24 hours. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in the wake of the attacks: 'It cannot be a case of all profit, no responsibility,' in terms of social media's role in atrocities Approximately 300,000 additional copies were removed after they were posted, the statement added. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in the wake of the attack: 'We will look at the role that social media played and what steps we can take, including on the international stage and in unison with our partners. 'They are the publisher, not just the postman. It cannot be a case of all profit, no responsibility,' she added. A fashion designer who killed her husband by stabbing him in the chest days before Christmas has sent bizarre religious letters to his parents. Katie Ann Castel pleaded guilty on Tuesday to the manslaughter of her 35-year-old husband Jarred Castel at their home in Chapel Hill, Brisbane, on December 2017. Castel was sentenced to nine years in jail for the fatal stabbing which left the couple's five-year-old son Levi without parents. One month after the fatal stabbing, Castel sent her husband's grieving parents strange letters from behind bars, The Courier-Mail reported. A fashion designer who killed her husband after stabbing him in the chest days before Christmas has sent bizarre religious letters to his parents Jarred Paul Castel (pictured) was stabbed to death by his wife in December 2017 The letters lasted 12 pages and Castel touched on religious teachings and her experience of being imprisoned. 'The night I lost Jarred they put me in the Brisbane Watchhouse it was truly the bowels of hell, a concrete cell with a tiny window I couldn't see out of, graffiti on every inch, no underwear and a couple of plastic-covered cushions,' she wrote. The mother-of-one went on to claim she was a 'novelty' in jail and she was 'the only one as far as the eye can see who doesn't have a drug charge'. The letters also told her husband's parents to 'rest in Jesus', and quoted a Bible passage saying: 'He who is forgiven much, loves much'. Castel penned a similar letter to Justice Jean Dalton, in an attempt to explain who she is as a person. Katie Ann Castel (right) pleaded guilty on Tuesday to the manslaughter of her 35-year-old husband Jarred Castel (left) at their home in Chapel Hill, Brisbane, on December 2017 Castel was sentenced to nine years in jail for the fatal stabbing which left the couple's five-year-old son Levi without parents 'I hope these thoughts will give you some understanding of who I am as a person, how sorry I am and how my husband's death has affected my life,' she wrote. 'I feel deeply the shame of being a prisoner. It is utterly demoralising and demonising to be inherently mistrusted, to have your individuality ignored, and be herded and lined up and counted like livestock every day.' The letter went on to say she had a role in jail of bringing 'salvation' to others. After Castel was sentenced to nine years behind bars, Mr Castel's family launched a Go Fund Me page to raise money for the couple's child. One month after the fatal stabbing, Castel sent the grieving family bizarre letters from behind bars Pictured: Mr Castel's sister Jehanne Geddes (left), father Anthony Castel (centre) and brother Ryan Castel (right) 'His Aunt is providing a beautiful loving home and is cherishing him, but there are many bills to pay and his future to think of,' the Go Fund Me says. 'Levi's father was a kind man who worked day and night to provide for his family and now that his father is dead, the little boy Levi doesn't have that financial support and won't ever again.' 'The family thanks you for your generosity, it really means so much.' The family hope donations can go towards giving Levi a 'loving life' with enough resources for his future. After Castel was sentenced nine years behind bars, Mr Castel's family launched a Go Fund Me page to raise money for the couple's child The family hope donations can go towards giving Levi a 'loving life' with enough resources for his future The page says Mr Castel purchased his first home at 19, built a local shop fitting business and lived with his wife who 'he adored'. 'Levi was his shining light, an intelligent little chap whose resemblance to his father is uncanny,' the family wrote. The page has already made over $13,000 since it was launched on Tuesday. The girlfriend of Jack Saunders, 25, the Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist who took his own life last weekend, has spoken out for the first time since his death. In a poignant Facebook message, which shared the front page of the Daily Mirror, Frankie Hurst wrote: 'As much as this truly breaks my heart, there is such an important message within this article. 'The signs are not always obvious and so we have have to talk about this and encourage men especially to speak up. The girlfriend (left) of the Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist Jack Saunders, 25, (right) who took his own life has spoken out in a poignant Facebook message 'THIS HAS TO STOP. LETS TALK ABOUT IT.' Ms Hurst also ran a special dance class that she dedicated to Mr Saunders this week, and donated all of the proceeds to mental health charity, Calm. In a Facebook message written the day after his death she wrote: 'I still cannot get my head around all of this but yesterday heaven gained the most special angel, my soul mate, my best friend, my right arm. In a Facebook message written the day after his death Frankie Hurst wrote: 'I still cannot get my head around all of this but yesterday heaven gained the most special angel, my soul mate, my best friend, my right arm Ms Hurst said: 'The signs are not always obvious and so we have have to talk about this and encourage men especially to speak up' 'I can't even find the words to begin but no one ever showed me as much love as you did, every single day and I'm eternally grateful for you. I'm so lucky to have experienced the love that we have and I'll forever carry that in my heart.' Mr Saunders' family will be hosting a memorial with Ms Hurst on Sunday at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford from 2pm, with a minute's silence at 4pm. The Britain's Got Talent contestant had been due to feature on next month's show. Jack Saunders, 25, was part of a five-man dance troupe, Green Force Five, that made it through to the semi-finals of the new series. But before the live-shows could start later this year, the tragic dancer was reported to have taken his life in the early hours of Sunday morning, according to The Mirror. Jack Saunders (pictured with Cheryl Cole), 25, was part of a five-man dance troupe, Green Force Five, that made it through to the semi-finals of the new series. Mr Saunders already had a successful dancing career, prior to his audition on Britain's Got Talent. He had traveled to countries including Las Vegas, India and Barcelona to perform At just 18-years-of-age, Mr Saunders (pictured with his girlfriend Frankie Hurst) was the youngest paid dancer to perform at the London Olympics ceremony, before also that year reaching the Got to Dance finals with Unity UK The news has left family and staff on the show devastated, with bosses now deciding whether to air the audition or scrap it entirely. Jack's mother, Sandra, 53, paid a moving tribute to the promising young dancer from the family home in Uxbridge, west London. She told The Mirror: 'We don't know why he did it, he didn't leave a note. He did not have depression. 'Suicide can happen to anyone at any time. People can't believe Jack is gone. We are the same. 'I want people to know that this can happen to any family. There is no stereotype it doesn't have to be a manic depressive who has shown signs of mental health problems.' Jack's mother, Sandra, 53, paid a moving tribute to the promising young dancer from the family home in Uxbridge, west London (Mr Saunders is pictured with Niall Horan) His mother described him as 'a kind soul', saying he was 'always focused on others to make sure they were OK' (Mr Saunders is pictured) Jack already had a successful dancing career, prior to his audition on Britain's Got Talent. He had traveled to countries including Las Vegas, India and Barcelona to perform. And at just 18-years-of-age was the youngest paid dancer to perform at the London Olympics ceremony, before also that year reaching the Got to Dance finals with Unity UK. His mother described him as 'a kind soul', saying he was 'always focused on others to make sure they were OK'. His sister, Kayla Williams, 28, said: 'Suicide awareness is getting better but there is still a bit of a stigma, but it can happen to anyone. 'The message we want to share about Jack's death is how important it is to talk to people, and tell people how great they are. A spokesman for Britain's Got Talent said: 'Our thoughts and condolences are with Jack's family and friends during this difficult and devastating time.' Love Island star Mike Thalassitis (pictured left and right) was found dead in the woods near his hometown in London on Friday morning News of his death comes soon after it was revealed that Love Island contestant Mike Thalassitis had taken his own life, found hanged in a park by his childhood home aged 26. It had been suggested that Mike was at the time struggling to come to terms with the death of his grandmother and had recently been dealing with debt. The reality TV star had moved in with the 94-year-old after her deteriorating health meant she needed a full time carer. And soon after news of his death emerged, former Love Island contestant Montana Brown said that Thalassitis had been 'in a dark place' recently, wishing she had done more to help. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article then you can call the Samaritans on 116 123, alternatively you can visit the website at by clicking here. A Colorado man has been arrested for allegedly throwing water on Rep. Steve King as he was dining at a restaurant in Iowa. The Iowa Congressman was dining in Fort Dodge when 26-year-old Blake Gibbins approached and allegedly tossed a glass of water at him, drenching King. The incident took place around 12.30pm on Friday at Mineral City Mill and Grill, where King was dining with a group of people. Witness accounts led police to believe King was specifically targeted because of his position as a Congressman. Gibbins, of Lafayette, Colorado, was visiting family in the area and didn't know that King would be in the restaurant, according to CBS. Colorado man Blake Gibbins, 26, has been arrested for allegedly throwing a glass of water at Rep. Steve King on Friday afternoon as he was dining in a Fort Dodge, Iowa restaurant Gibbins was arrested on Friday and charged with two counts of simple assault and one count of disorderly conduct. All the charges are misdemeanors. Fort Dodge Police were called to the restaurant where they discovered 'the intended victim, Rep. Steve King, was having a group lunch when an unknown male approached their table.' The water hit King and some of the others he was eating with, cops said. The incident follows King's incendiary comments about Hurricane Katina survivors during a town hall meeting that sparked major backlash online and among politicians. The incident took place at Mineral City Mill and Grill in Fort Dodge Iowa on Friday around 12.30pom On Thursday during a town hall in his district he suggested that Hurricane Katrina disaster victims were desperate for asking for government assistance after the storm. He painted the New Orleans storm victims in a poor light saying they asked the government 'who's gonna help me' while Iowans 'take care of each other' after the state was inundated with devastating flooding this month. He didn't mention race, but is known for his controversial comments on race. His comments led to intense backlash and Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards, responded to King's comments saying his portrayal of Katrina survivors were 'disgusting and disheartening'. Louisiana Rep. Cedric Richmond slammed King as a 'white supremacist', adding 'I won't stand for it'. Michael Daley he has declared he intends to remain as the leader of the New South Labor party despite losing the state election. Just before 10pm AEDT on Saturday, Mr Daley conceded defeat after calling Premier Gladys Berejiklian to congratulate her. The Coalition has returned for a third term in office, and it is believed they will form a majority government. Scroll down for video Michael Daley (pictured) says he intends to remain as leader of the NSW Labor party despite losing the state election More than 5.2 million people cast their vote in what was tipped to be one of the closest elections in decades, but in the end the Coalition led the way. Labor needed 13 seats to form a majority government, but so far they have only picked up Coogee in Sydney from the Liberal Party and possibly Lismore, in the state's far north, from the National Party. The Opposition went backwards in East Hills, the Liberal Party's most marginal seat, in south-west Sydney. In a bizarre concession speech, Mr Daley touched the shoulder of his deputy Penny Sharpe. 'Penny certainly is an ornament to the party,' he said. With his wife Christina by his side, Mr Daley thanked his family, candidates, the party, and the 22,000 volunteers, who he referred to as 'beautiful people in red T-shirts'. 'Thank you so much, you can hold your head high - as can our party,' he said. Mr Daley said despite the disappointing result, he would continue on as NSW Labor leader to a cheering crowd of about 200 at the Coogee Bay Hotel. 'Sometimes we win them, and sometimes we lose them,' he said. 'But one thing never changes - our passion, our belief and our mission to make NSW and Australia a better place, and that is what we will continue to do.' Mr Daley became leader 134 days ago following the forced resignation of Luke Foley, over an alleged sexual assault scandal, and said there wasn't enough time to cut through to the electorate. 'It just wasn't long enough. But I can tell you that it is my intention to remain the leader of the party,' he told the Labor function in conceding defeat. The Labor leader had always likened his chances in the election as climbing Mount Everest and on Saturday admitted he was up against an 'enormous machine'. But, he later said he was 'hopeful' of continuing as party leader when parliament returns. Mr Daley (pictured) became leader 134 days ago following the forced resignation of Luke Foley and said there wasn't enough time to cut through to the electorate Mr Daley (pictured) said despite the disappointing result, he would continue on as NSW Labor leader to a cheering crowd of about 200 at Coogee Bay Hotel His comments suggest he knows he'll be under pressure from fellow MPs considering the 11 per cent swing against him in his own seat of Maroubra, where high-profile marathon runner and former federal MP Pat Farmer was the Liberal candidate. Senior Labor MP Jodi McKay backed Mr Daley to stay on as party leader 'He has performed very, very strongly,' Ms McKay told ABC TV. 'In saying that, last week we had a bad week. We had two incidents there which I think all of us wish hadn't happened.' Ms McKay said a video of Mr Daley in September saying Asian migrants were taking local jobs was 'very unfortunate and I for one wish that that hadn't happened.' The Labor leader also made missteps during the leaders' debate mid-week when he couldn't remember how much the opposition had committed to schools and TAFE. 'They were two major setbacks for us,' she said. At one point Mr Daley, a former Randwick deputy mayor, said he had been the member for Maroubra since 1995, even though he didn't win that Sydney seat in a by-election until 2005. 'I thank the people of Maroubra who have re-elected me again tonight,' he said. 'They've been doing so continually since 1995.' Mr Daley (pictured) said after what seemed like a very, very long time, he would finally be able to have a drink or two with friends Mr Daley also called for an improvement in politics in the state to end the continual erosion of public confidence in the political system. 'One of the concerns I have about the result tonight, being someone who believes in the political stability the two-party system [provides]... is that it really hasn't been all that great a night for the major parties. 'We have more work to do,' he said. Federal Opposition leader Bill Shorten, who didn't attend Saturday's event, congratulated Ms Berejiklian for her win and Mr Daley for his efforts. 'I salute Michael Daley and his team for the positive, passionately campaign they conducted,' he said in a statement. 'They were asked to achieve the near-impossible in just a few months.' Mr Daley said after what seemed like a very, very long time, he would finally be able to have a drink or two with friends. 'I can't remember the last time I did it so I think I might treat myself with that enjoyable experience now,' he said. The grieving mother of Hull student Libby Squire has paid a heartbreaking tribute to her 'beautiful baby girl' as police have launched a murder investigation. On Saturday morning, Lisa Squire took to Facebook to share her grief and pain as the family tries to come to terms with the devastating loss of the 21-year-old - whose cause of death has not been revealed. Police confirmed on Thursday that a body pulled from the Humber Estuary the day before was in fact Libby's, they said yesterday they're now 'solely investigating' her death as a possible murder and have stopped probing other causes. Mrs Squire said her heart was broken for Libby's friends before thanking her eldest child for 'making me a mummy' in a post which has been shared 2,000 times and received hundreds of messages of support. One of her university flatmates, Amelia Cummins also posted a heartfelt tribute on Facebook where she described Libby as an 'incredible person'. Lisa Squire with her eldest daughter Libby, who was found in the Humber Estuary this week The post signalled the end of a seven-week wait for answers for the family who often travelled from their High Wycombe home to Hull, where their daughter went to university. Mrs Squire, who affectionately called Libby 'Pie', wrote: 'My baby girl is gone. Gone forever. No more birthdays with us. 'No more Christmas days with us. No more family time all together. Tributes have been paid to the student after her body was found in the Humber Estuary 'No family should have to endure that. No sisters should have that special girl they have known for all their time on this earth taken from her. 'No 11-year-old brother should have his idol taken from him. No dad should have his first born little girl, his princess, taken from him. 'No grandparent should lose their first born grandchild child. No aunt and uncle lose their first born niece. No mother should have to watch her family go through all of that.' Mrs Squire went on to reveal the crushing moment she had to inform 'the absolute love of Libby's life', Connor, that she had died. She said: 'There have been so many low points but by far the worst point was having to call Connor, the absolute love of her life, and tell him I am so sorry the girl you love the most in the world has gone. Lisa Squire also posted this message in tribute to her 21-year-old daughter Passers by view a digital police poster in the centre of Hull as the search continued for Libby 'The girl you planned to be with for the rest of your life, the boy she planned to be with for the rest of her life. He made her happy. She made him happy. That made me happy. 'My heart is broken for her friends. The friends she knows and loves because they are my friend's babies. Watching your children become friends with your friend's children is a special thing. Philosophy and religion student Libby went missing from a park bench - which has since been filled with tributes - just yards from her student accommodation after a night out on January 31. Her mother's post continued: 'Those little people who came in to her life when she was pre-school and are still there. 'Those precious little people that she meet at school in September 2002. The class her very experienced teacher told me was 'a unique class of children who acted more like brothers and sisters, not just friends'. 'How right was she as nearly 17 years on they are back together supporting each other and missing Libby. Lisa Squire's full tribute to her 'baby girl' as she thanks her 'for making me a mummy' Libby's mother Lisa Squire posted this message on Facebook this morning My baby girl is gone. Gone forever. No more birthdays with us. No more Christmas Days with us. No more family time all together. No family should have to endure that. No sisters should have that special girl they have known for all their time on this earth taken from her. No 11 year old brother should have his idol taken from him. No dad should have his first born little girl, his princess, taken from him. No grandparent should lose their first born grandchild. No aunt and uncle lose their first born niece. No mother should have to watch her family go through all of that. There have been so many low points but by far the worst point was having to call Connor, the absolute love of her life, and tell him I am so sorry the girl you love the most in the world has gone. The girl you planned to be with for the rest of your life, the boy she planned to be with for the rest of her life. He made her happy. She made him happy. That made me happy. My heart is broken for her friends. The friends she knows and loves because they are my friend's babies. Watching your children become friends with your friend's children is a special thing. Those little people who came in to her life when she was pre school and are still there. Those precious little people that she meet at school in September 2002 ~ the class her very experienced teacher told me was 'a unique class of children who acted more like brothers and sisters, not just friends'. How right was she as nearly 17 years on they are back together supporting each other and missing Libby. Her friends she found at WHS. Those who carried her through her most turbulent of times and still loved her. Her college friends. Friends that made college bearable. Friends who looked out for her and loved her. Her friends at her job ~ the job she was so proud of and loved. Her friends that she had made this last 18 months at uni who still had so much to learn about her. Broken for you all. Most of all I have lost one of the 4 most precious things in my life.I cannot thank you enough my darling Pie for making me a mummy. For choosing me to be your mummy. It's an honour, a privilege and a joy. I kept you safe for as long as I could and I am so sorry I could not keep you safe on that night. I'm sorry. I'm so so sorry. I love you my beautiful girl with all my being and I always will.Until we meet again my Pie. I love you more xxxxxx Advertisement Floral tributes are left for Libby at a bench on Beverley Road, Hull, where she was last seen 'Her friends she found at WHS. Those who carried her through her most turbulent of times and still loved her. Her college friends. Friends that made college bearable. Friends who looked out for her and loved her. 'Her friends at her job - the job she was so proud of and loved. Her friends that she had made this last 18 months at uni who still had so much to learn about her. Broken for you all. The mother-of-four then heartbreakingly said she was sorry to Libby for not being able to keep her safe on the night she went missing. Lisa Squire issuing a police appeal with Libby's father. Libby was found this week near Hull Lisa Squire, shares heartbreaking Facebook post three weeks into the search for Libby Mrs Squire continued: 'Most of all I have lost one of the four most precious things in my life. I cannot thank you enough my darling Pie for making me a mummy. For choosing me to be your mummy. It's an honour, a privilege and a joy. 'I kept you safe for as long as I could and I am so sorry I could not keep you safe on that night. I'm sorry. I'm so so sorry. 'I love you my beautiful girl with all my being and I always will. Until we meet again my Pie. I love you more xxxxxx.' Since the post, which was published at 7.30am on Saturday, March 23, more than 1,000 people have commented to express their support and love for the Squire family at this distressing time. One said: 'So sorry Lisa for your loss. Your words are beautiful,' while another person wrote: 'So, so sorry for your loss. One thing is for sure Libby is always in our hearts. May she rest in peace.' The message followed a Facebook post from Libby's university flatmate Amelia Cummins, who was one of the last people to see Libby alive. Amelia Cummins (left) and Libby (right) had been flatmates together at University where they studied philosophy She praised the efforts of the police force and said they had gone 'above and beyond' to help find her. She said: 'Libby was an incredible person, and as Lisa said to me the other week, "if you had the blessing of being her friend you were very lucky". 'I count myself incredibly lucky to have know Lib. We came to uni not expecting to find the "life long" friend that everyone who's done uni and found that friend talks about, but we did; we found each other.' She added that if anyone had met Libby then they had 'a right to be sad'. A bankrupt construction company owner accused of beating his wife to death, hiding her body in a pool before going to Applebee's as an alibi has reportedly taken a plea deal in the case. Norman F. Long pleaded guilty to an amended charge of first-degree aggravated manslaughter after his wife Michelle, 47, was found floating in the backyard pool of the $500,000 New Jersey home they shared in June 2017. Long had been charged with murder and Gloucester County prosecutors are now recommending a 15-year sentence, nj.com reports. He is due to be sentence May 3 after charges of tampering with evidence and obstruction were dropped under the deal. Long's attorney, David Bahuriak Jr., said: 'It was the result of a sudden provocation, intoxication and a number of mental health issues all converging in a perfect storm. 'He wishes he could take it back. The best that he can do is accept responsibility and ask for forgiveness.' Michelle Long, 47, right, was found floating in the backyard pool on June 17 by her husband, Norman Long, left, who told cops initially she drowned An autopsy determined that the cause of her death was not drowning, but instead blunt force trauma after Michelle was found floating in the backyard pool, pictured, of the $500,000 New Jersey home the couple shared in June 2017 An autopsy determined that the cause of Michelle's death was not drowning, but instead blunt force trauma. On the day of her murder, police say Long, who owned Long Construction Company, returned to their home in Gloucester County after picking up takeout food from Applebee's. He is then said to have called 911 and pretended he discovered his wife of 15 years body in the pool when he returned. When first responders arrived, he told them she had drowned, according to cops. Prosecutors say Norman, who had filed for bankruptcy, and their neighbors were performing CPR on Michelle when investigators arrived to the scene. Michelle was said to have been leaving her husband and was looking at homes for sale on the computer in the moments before she was killed. Long plead guilty to an amended charge of first-degree aggravated manslaughter Long had been charged with murder and Gloucester County prosecutors are now recommending a 15-year sentence The victim's daughter, who has no biological relation to Norman, spoke at a press conference following his arrest. Brittany Maguire (above with Michelle) said: 'She was definitely the best mom and she did not deserve this at all' The couple had been married for more than 15 years and owned Long Construction Company together. Pictured is their home in New Jersey Neighbors told officials that the husband became combative while others performed CPR on Michelle. At one point, he even had to be restrained. She was pronounced dead a short time later at the scene, as a small dog was also found in the bottom of the pool dead. Her daughter Brittany Maguire, who has no biological relation to Norman, said: 'She was definitely the best mom and she did not deserve this at all. We are all broken without her.' A Pennsylvania District Attorney has spoken out against a jury's decision to acquit a white former police officer of homicide, after he shot and killed an unarmed black teenager as he fled from a traffic stop. In a press conference on Friday night, DA Stephen Zappala Jr. said he believes the jury were wrong in letting Michael Rosfeld walk from the Allegheny County Courthouse free from any charges. But Zappala said he also understands it's everyday citizens who ultimately decide guilt in criminal cases, and 'they have spoken'. 'I have always believed that the criminal justice system belongs to the people and the best example of that is when 12 men and women sit in a room and deliberate how best to pass judgement onto one of their peers,' Zappala said 'While I respectfully disagree with their verdict, it is the people of this commonwealth who decide guilty or not guilty and they have spoken in this matter.' He added, that in the interests of justice, he'll continue to bring about charges against Rosfeld, where charges are deemed appropriate. DA Stephen Zappala Jr. (above) said he disagreed with the jury's decision to acquit Rosfeld, but said he respects the decision Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld (left on March 12) was charged with homicide for shooting Antwon Rose II (right) during a traffic stop last June. He was acquitted Friday Supporters of Antwon Rose II, stand on the steps of Allegheny County Courthouse after hearing the verdict of not guilty on all charges for Michael Rosfeld Supporters of Antwon hug as they leave the courthouse. The protester in gray above read aloud a poem Rose had written two years earlier. Part of it said: 'I am not what you think. I am confused and afraid. I wonder what path I will take' Michelle Kenney, the mother of Antwon Rose II, leaves the Allegheny County Courthouse with supporters after hearing the verdict of not guilty on all charges for Rosfeld The jury deliberated for less than four hours on March 22, before clearing ex-East Pittsburgh police officer Rosfeld of homicide in the shooting of Antwon Rose II, in 2018. 'I hope that man never sleeps at night,' Rose's mother, Michelle Kenney, said of Rosfeld, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. 'I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none.' The verdict leaves Rose's family to pursue the federal civil rights lawsuit they filed last August against Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh, a small municipality about 10 miles from downtown Pittsburgh. Rose was riding in an unlicensed taxi that had been involved in a drive-by shooting when Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot the 17-year-old in the back, arm and side of the face as he ran away. A prosecution witness said that after the shooting, he heard Rosfeld say repeatedly, 'I don't know why I shot him. I don't know why I fired.' Rosfeld's lawyer referred to his client as 'a good man', adding that he feared for his life in the moments leading up to the shooting and had to make a split-second decision. Rosfeld's wife burst out sobbing as the verdict was announced. She and Rosfeld were hustled out of the courtroom by deputies. Antwon's supporters are seen above The crowd started chanting 'it is our duty to fight for our freedom' outside the court house A prosecution witness said that after the shooting, he heard Rosfeld say repeatedly, 'I don't know why I shot him. I don't know why I fired.' Supporters of Antwon gather outside the courthouse Rose's family remained stoic after the verdict was delivered. His sister Kyra Jamison had tears streaming down her face and her mother Kenney urged her not to cry. Kenney said she was upset but unsurprised by the verdict, given other cases in which police officers have either avoided charges or won acquittals in similar shootings. 'It isn't what I hoped for, but it's what I expected,' she said, adding she feels her son ended up dead because he was black. Antwon's sister Kyra Jamison is pictured Wednesday leaving the trial with her jacket calling for justice for her dead brother There were tears and gasps from black people gathered in an overflow courtroom, and several broke out in song: 'Antwon Rose was a freedom fighter, and he taught us how to fight.' Rosfeld's wife burst out sobbing as the verdict was announced. She and Rosfeld were hustled out of the courtroom by deputies. The reaction was measured after Friday night's verdict, with a small group of chanting protesters gathering outside the Allegheny County Courthouse briefly blocking intersections and entering hotels. Pittsburgh police tweeted the 'peaceful demonstration' had resulted in rolling, temporary road closures. One protester read aloud a poem Rose had written two years earlier. Part of it said: 'I hear that there's only two ways out. I see mothers bury their sons. I want my mom to never feel that pain. I am confused and afraid.' The Woodlands Hills School District had released the poem after his death at the request of Antwon's mother Kenney. The crowd then started chanting 'it is our duty to fight for our freedom'. Other chants included 'no Justice, no peace' and 'three shots in the back. How you justify that?' S. Lee Merritt, attorney for Antwon's mother talks with reporters as he leaves the Allegheny County Courthouse Friday Footage of the moment Michael Rosfeld shot dead unarmed black 17-year-old Antwon Rose II as he fled a traffic stop last June was shown to the jury at the former East Pittsburgh police officer's trial on Tuesday. Rosfeld is circled left and Rose is circled right The Rose family's attorney, S. Lee Merritt, had urged a murder conviction, saying before closing arguments that it's 'pretty obvious' Rose was not a threat to Rosfeld. Rose's death - one of many high-profile killings of black men and teens by white police officers in recent years - spurred protests in the Pittsburgh area last year, including a late-night march that shut down a major highway. On Friday, Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Fodi declared in his closing argument that Rosfeld had acted as 'judge, jury and executioner'. A defense expert, retired Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Clifford W. Jobe Jr., testified Rosfeld followed proper procedure when he shot and killed Rose. 'I can't fault Officer Rosfeld,' Jobe, a use-of-force expert, told jurors on Thursday. He called the officer's actions 'textbook.' As Jobe returned to the stand Friday for cross-examination, the judge lifted a gag order he imposed on parties in the case at the request of the defense. Defense attorney Patrick Thomassey said while he and prosecutors have abided by the judge's order, the attorney for Rose's family has not. On Wednesday, S. Lee Merritt released a letter to the media that Rose's mother wrote to prosecutors urging them to show what a 'kind, loving and funny' person her son was. Video from the drive-by shooting that preceded the fatal traffic stop shows 18-year-old Zaijuan Hester extending his gun out of the window of the gold Chevrolet Cruze and firing. Rose's silhouette can be made out in the front seat Rosfeld testified Thursday he thought Rose or another passenger in the car had pointed a weapon at him, and he fired in self-defense. But it turned out that neither teen had a gun at the time. 'It happened very quickly,' said Rosfeld, who took the stand in his own defense. 'My intent was to end the threat that was made against me. I just wanted to end the threat to me. I followed the threat and fired.' Rosfeld got choked up and dabbed away tears as he recounted finding the mortally wounded Rose on the ground. 'I was upset, shocked,' he said. 'He was moaning, trying to breathe.' Rose had been riding in the front seat of the cab when another occupant, Zaijuan Hester, in the backseat, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street, hitting one in the abdomen. A few minutes later, Rosfeld spotted their car, which had its rear windshield shot out, and pulled it over. Hester, 18, pleaded guilty last week to aggravated assault and firearms violations. Hester told a judge that he, not Rose, did the shooting. Roger Stone associate Jerome Corsi has said that the end of special counsel Robert Mueller' investigation is a personal vindication, after he refused to take a plea deal under threat of prosecution. With a senior Justice Department official saying that Mueller's final report submitted on Friday does not recommend further indictments, author and conspiracy theorist Corsi appears to be off the hook. 'I feel vindicated. They offered me a plea deal which I thought was fraudulent,' Corsi said in a statement to Fox News. In November, Corsi said he had refused to plead guilty to one count of perjury because he did not believe that he had committed any crime. Author and conspiracy theorist Jerome Corsi (seen in January) said that he was vindicated by the end of the Mueller probe after refusing to take a plea deal 'I did not knowingly and willfully give them information I knew was false,' Corsi said on Friday. 'The fact is I wasn't going to lie to keep myself out of prison. I did nothing wrong and it is clear I did nothing wrong or they would have prosecuted me.' Corsi celebrated the news in a series of triumphant tweets, writing: 'It's over but it has been the worst seven months of my life. MUELLER IS DONE. I am in the clear.' 'I want to thank all of you who have prayed for me and my family,' he added, attributing his legal outcome to the power of prayer. Corsi came under scrutiny by Mueller for his communications with Stone, a Trump campaign advisor, about WikiLeaks publishing stolen emails from Hillary Clinton's campaign. Corsi came under scrutiny by Mueller for his communications with Rodger Stone, a Trump campaign advisor, who is seen above earlier this month Court documents indicate that Stone sought to use him as an intermediary to communicate with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange during the election. Stone was arrested in January in a pre-dawn raid on his home in Florida, and is charged with one count of obstruction of an official proceeding, five counts of false statements, and one count of witness tampering. He is currently free on bond and has pleaded not guilty on all counts. Mueller's probe ended without any Americans being charged with conspiring with the Russian government to tamper with the 2016 election, the central allegation of the nearly two-year investigation. Earlier government had mopped up Rs 50,809.76 crore from disinvestment of various public sector enterprises. The government had set Rs 3,500 crore as the base issue size for the three-day issuance of the fifth tranche of the CPSE ETF. Mumbai: With the CPSE ETF Further Fund Offer 4 receiving an overwhelming market response, the central government has exceeded its disinvestment target for the second year in a row, with the selloff proceeds touching Rs 85,000 crore against the budgeted target of Rs 80,000 crore. "As against a target of Rs 80,000 crore for disinvestment for the current year, the divestment receipts have touched Rs 85,000 crores today," Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said in tweet on Friday. The government is likely to get Rs 10,000 crore from the CPSE ETF FFO4 as it plans to exercise the entire green shoe option of Rs 6,500 crore, along with the Rs 3,500-crore base issue size, said sources close to the merchant bankers managing CPSE ETF FFO4 that closed on Friday. The government also realised Rs 14,500 crore on Friday from the REC-PFC deal. "PFC has today signed a Share Purchase Agreement to acquire 103.94 crore equity shares of Rs 10/- each, of REC Limited from the President of India constituting 52.63 per cent of the paid-up share capital of REC Limited." PFC said in a statement on Friday. Earlier government had mopped up Rs 50,809.76 crore from disinvestment of various public sector enterprises. The major disinvestment mop-up in FY 2018-19 included Bharat 22 ETF(Rs 8325 crore), CPSE ETF (17,000 crore), Coal India (Rs 5,218 crore), Bharat 22 ETF FFO (Rs 10,404 crore) Inidan Oil Corporation (Rs 2,650 crore) and ONGC (Rs 2,510 crore). As per last details available, CPSE ETF FFO4 received subscriptions of more than Rs 20,000 crore against the issue size of Rs 3,500 crore. The government had set Rs 3,500 crore as the base issue size for the three-day issuance of the fifth tranche of the CPSE ETF. As much as 30 per cent of the issue size was reserved for anchor investors. The list of anchor investors include BNP Paribas Arbitrage, Citi Group Global Markets Mauritius, Credit Suisse Singapore, Edelweiss Alpha Fund, ICICI Prudential Balanced Advantage Fund, Merrill Lynch Markets Singapore and Morgan Stanley (France) SA. The exchange traded fund tracks shares of 11 central public sector enterprisesONGC, NTPC, CIL, IOC, REC, PFC, BEL, OIL, NBCC India, NLC India and SJVN. Through the earlier four ETF tranches, the Centre had raised Rs 28,500 crore--Rs 3,000 crore in March 2014, Rs 6,000 crore in January 2017, Rs 2,500 crore in March 2017 and Rs 17,000 crore in November 2018. A minor party that wants to weaken gun laws has tripled its number of lower house seats in Australia's biggest state - just one week after 50 people were shot dead in the Christchurch massacre. The Shooters Fishers and Farmers Party retained Orange with a 37 per cent swing towards them and picked up two more seats, Barwon and Murray, with massive double digit swings against the National Party. They now have the same number of seats in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly as the Greens following Saturday's state election, with more than 100,000 voters backing them. A minor party that wants to weaken gun laws has tripled its number of lower house seats in Australia's biggest state - just one week after 50 people were shot dead in the Christchurch massacre (Shooters Fishers and Farmers Party candidate Helen Dalton pictured) More than 100,000 New South Wales residents voted for the Shooters party, representing a positive swing of at least 3.2 per cent (pictured: Shooters candidate Roy Butler) Third-time Shooters party candidate Helen Dalton resoundingly defeated Nationals candidate Austin Evans in the seat of Murray, which stretches along the Victorian border. She secured a swing of 27.8 per cent against the Nationals, more than overcoming a 3.3 per cent margin in a seat previously held by former state education minister Adrian Piccoli. Ms Dalton confirmed her victory on Saturday evening, writing on Facebook that Mr Evans had called to concede defeat. 'I'd like to congratulate him on a gruelling and hard fought campaign,' she said. 'This has been an amazing performance by all of you. I'd like to offer my sincere thank you to every volunteer and every person who voted for me. 'I'm extremely honoured to be able to end 35 years of National rule and look forward to representing you as YOUR member for Murray.' In her third attempt, Helen Dalton (pictured) won the safe National seat of Murray from candidate Austin Evans 'I'm extremely honoured to be able to end 35 years of National rule and look forward to representing you as YOUR member for Murray,' Ms Dalton wrote on Saturday The Shooters are also on track to grab the state's largest seat, Barwon, which stretches from Walgett, Narrabri and Coonabarabran in the east to Broken Hill and the South Australian border. Shooters candidate Roy Butler led the race on Saturday night with a 21.5 per cent swing against the Nationals. The Shooters party won the seat of Orange in a 2016 by-election. Philip Donato retain that seat on Saturday with a 37.2 per cent swing. His primary vote of 50.6 per cent was double that of his National Party opponent Kate Hazelton. The Nationals, previously known as the Country Party, had held this seat in the state's Central West from 1947 until the 2016 by-election. The Shooters want the government to stop recording ammunition sales and are pushing a controversial plan to allow former police and army officers to grant gun licences and exempt them from paying any fees. Shooters candidate Roy Butler led the race on Saturday evening to claim the north-west rural electorate from Nationals representative Austin Evans Former Deputy Prime Minister Tim Fischer, who was also a state Country and National Party MP for 13 years, said the Shooters party was influenced by the American National Rifle Association and presented a real threat to gun laws in NSW. 'It's not helped if the Shooters party were to win an outright balance of power and multiple seats in both houses,' Mr Fischer told Daily Mail Australia on Friday. 'The National Rifle Association in the USA is still a presence on the internet.' Mr Fischer, who championed national gun laws in 1996, said 'any wholesale chipping away of the gun laws' was a risk to 'children's safety and community safety' in the aftermath of the Christchurch massacre. Outgoing Shooters MP Robert Brown hit back at Mr Fischer's suggestion his party was influenced by the NRA and downplayed the possibility of them securing changes to gun laws. 'Bulls***. You can quote me on that,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'Tim Fischer is telling lies.' The Shooters party won the seat of Orange in a 2016 by-election. Philip Donato (pictured) retain that seat on Saturday with a 37.2 per cent swing The massive swings come just one week after 50 Muslim worshippers were gunned down during Friday prayers at two mosques in Christchurch. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was swift to call for the country's lax gun laws to be strengthened in the wake of the attack. On Thursday, Ms Ardern announced that New Zealand would ban all military-style weapons and assault rifles. 'On 15 March our history changed forever. Now, our laws will too. We are announcing action today on behalf of all New Zealanders to strengthen our gun laws and make our country a safer place,' Ms Ardern said. 'All semi-automatic weapons used during the terrorist attack on Friday 15 March will be banned. 'I strongly believe that the vast majority of legitimate gun owners in New Zealand will understand that these moves are in the national interest, and will take these changes in their stride.' Advertisement Two monkeys were snapped landing flying kicks on each other in a fierce kung fu fight. Tensions escalated between the dusky leaf monkeys and after a chase the pair started brawling, punching, kicking and even biting each other with their sharp teeth. Wildlife photographer Sergey Savvi, 38, photographed the pair as they landed martial arts-style flying kicks at Kaeng Krachen National Park in Phetchaburi, Thailand, as they tried to assert dominance. Mr Savvi said, from Saint Petersburg, Russia, said: 'It all started with grabbing and then they were chasing each other for several minutes. Wildlife photographer Sergey Savvi, 38, said: 'The kicks reminded me of the famous scene from the movie 300 when King Leonidas shouts "this is Sparta!" and kicks his opponent' Tensions escalated between the dusky leaf monkeys and after a chase the pair started brawling, punching, kicking and even biting each other with their sharp teeth 'There were a few clashes that lasted for a few seconds, without any serious harm for the monkeys. 'Some of their moves looked like karate or kung fu, while others looked like wrestling. 'The fight included lots of karate kicks, grappling, biting and pushing. 'I suspect this was some kind of social play, where one animal dominates another to try and show who the boss is.' He added: 'I have never seen anything like this before. Dusky leaf monkeys grow up to 60cm tall, weigh up to 9kg, and have a lifespan of up to 25 years The two monkeys exchanged blows at Kaeng Krachen National Park in Phetchaburi, Thailand, as they tried to assert dominance 'Dusky leaf monkeys spend the most of their time feeding or resting up trees, so to see them on the ground is very rare. 'They are not usually aggressive animals and the winner and loser of this fight ended up going into the jungle together afterwards. 'I'm glad I saw and pictured such a rare moment.' He also said: 'The kicks reminded me of the famous scene from the movie 300 when King Leonidas shouts "this is Sparta!" and kicks his opponent.' Dusky leaf monkeys grow up to 60cm tall, weigh up to 9kg, and have a lifespan of up to 25 years. The family of a Parkland high school shooting victim are mourning the death of their daughter's best friend who killed herself this week after suffering from 'survivor's guilt'. Sydney Aiello, 19, became the inadvertent 18th victim of the devastating Parkland high school shooting when she took her own life on Sunday. She survived the Valentines Day shooting in 2018, but lost her best friend Meadow Pollack in the attack that left 17 students and staff dead, and struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder and 'survivors guilt' afterwards. Meadow's grief-stricken family is now lamenting Sydney's death, sharing their heartbreak on having to bury yet another Parkland teenager. A GoFundMe page raising money for Sydney's funeral expenses reached $60,896 on Saturday, surpassing the goal of $20,000. Parkland High School shooting survivor Sydney Aiello, 19, took her own life on Sunday after suffering from 'survivor's guilt' and post-traumatic stress disorder following the horrific attack Sydney lost her best friend Meadow Pollock in the attack. Meadow's brother took to Twitter to pay tribute to Sydney saying: 'Rest in peace, Sydney. Please take care of my sister' He paid tribute to Sydney who was best friends with Meadow while they attended Parkland High together Hunter Pollock pictured above with his sister Meadow who was killed in the deadly Parkland High School shooting that killed 17 staff and students 'It was devastating to bury another beautiful young person in Parkland today. Our community is going through tragedy again. Please keep the Aiello Family in your prayers,' Hunter Pollack, Meadow's brother, wrote on Twitter on Friday. 'Rest in peace, Sydney. Please take care of my sister,' he added. Meadow's father Andrew Pollack, who has turned into a gun reform activist following the attack, told the Miami Herald his 'heart goes out to those poor, poor parents'. 'Its terrible what happened. Meadow and Sydney were friends for a long, long time,' he said. 'Killing yourself is not the answer,' he added. Aiello died on Sunday at her home in Coconut Creek, Florida, suffering a gunshot wound to the head, according to the Broward County medical examiner's office. Her funeral took place Friday. Meadow's father Andrew Pollock, who has become a gun reform activist following the Parkland shooting, also lamented Sydney's death saying his 'heart goes out to those poor, poor parents' 'Its terrible what happened. Meadow and Sydney were friends for a long, long time. Killing yourself is not the answer,' Meadow's father Andrew Pollock said on Sydney's death. Meadow pictured left smiling with Sydney She graduated from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018, one month after the devastating shooting that killed 17 students and staff and shook the nation. She went on to study at Florida Atlantic University, but struggled to attend college classes because she was afraid of being in a classroom. Her mother Cara Aiello said her daughter was on campus at Marjory when Cruz opened fire, but was not in the Freshman Building. Following the shooting Sydney was often sad but didn't ask for help before she killed herself. In June 2018 on Facebook she a post about Robin Williams, Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain - all of whom have committed suicide in the past few years. The post said 'Sometimes you need to check on those who seem the strongest'. Sydney is survived by her parents Cara and Joe, and her brother Nick. She loved yoga and according to her mother, wanted to dedicate her life to helping others. A GoFundMe page raising money for her funeral expenses has crossed the $60,000 mark as of Saturday as loved ones filled the comments section, remembering Sydney as a beloved cheerleader who loved 'brightening up the days of others'. 'Sydney spent 19 years writing her story as a beloved daughter, sister and friend to many. She lit up every room she entered. Sydney aspired to work in the medical field helping others in need.' If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741-741. A man beat a two-year-old boy so severely he's now in a vegetative state unable to feel anything other than pain. Adam Thomas, 28, was given two back-to-back life sentences in February, for abusing Thomas Sullivan and his sister Amery, 3, last summer. He had been dating the childrens' mother, Denis Rae Watson, 26, when the horrifying abuse began at her Texas home. Little Thomas Sullivan was rushed to the intensive care unit of the Texas Childrens Hospital in Houston last September, suffering a severe head trauma, a lacerated liver, multiple fractures and burns. He is now in a vegetative state and will suffer permanent mental and physical disabilities as a result of the abuse, doctors say. Thomas Sullivan (pictured) is now in a vegetative state and will suffer permanent mental and physical disabilities as a result of the abuse, doctors say Adam Thomas (left), 28, was issued two back-to-back life sentences in February, for abusing Thomas Sullivan and his sister Amery, 3, last summer. Denise Watson (right) pleaded guilty for failing to seek care for her two children, and was handed a 20 year sentence on March 7 'He's only responsive to pain,' the toddler's aunt, Sarah Sullivan, told the Courier. '[Thomas] breathes on his own, and then he stops. Hes not doing well. Hes going to live, but they said we need to prepare for him to be in this state for the rest of his life.' The tot's sister, Amery, also suffered horrific injuries to her stomach, and a series of fractures to her pelvis and ribs. Sullivan revealed that Amery had to undergo kidney surgery to repair her organs after Thomas repeatedly kicked her in the stomach, the Metro reported. 'As many of you know, my niece and nephew were brutally beaten...and I love them more than life itself,' Sullivan wrote in a heartfelt post on GoFundMe, set up to help cover the costs of Amery and little Thomas' medical treatment. 'I finished college [and] moved home to help raise them. But the thing is, they filled a void in my heart that can never be replaced. 'My family is in it deep, emotionally [and] financially.' Last September, Thomas (pictured with Denise) was taken to intensive care, having suffering a severe head trauma, a lacerated liver, multiple fractures and burns Amery (shown with Denise), also suffered horrific injuries to her stomach, and a series of fractures to her pelvis and ribs According to investigators, Adam Thomas tried to claim the children had suffered the extensive injuries through 'a series of accidents, such as falling down the stairs, falling off a toy wagon or playing too hard on a slip-and-slide at a birthday party.' Police believe the abuse occurred over several weeks. And after his arrest last Autumn, police later discovered that Thomas had previously abused and burned two other young children, who were a similar age to Amery and Thomas Sullivan. He conspired with Watson to lie to police and attempt to cover-up the abuse he had subjected her children to, even writing a script for her to memorize offering alternative explanations for their injuries. Watson pleaded guilty for failing to seek care for her two children, and was handed a 20 year sentence on March 7. Adam Thomas (left) conspired with Watson to lie to police and attempt to cover-up the abuse he had subjected her children to, even writing a script for her to memorize offering alternative explanations for Amery and Thomas' (right) injuries In a post on Facebook, the children's grandfather, Gerald Sullivan, said he is fighting to adopt the children Police say she cooperated with the investigation and later testified against her boyfriend to reveal the extent of the abuse. 'Can you believe my son's ex tried to murder these precious Angel's during hurricane Harvey?' Grandfather Gerald Sullivan said in a December Facebook post, accompanied by several pictures of Amery and Thomas. '[Amery] is ok after 4 major surgeries and we are fighting CPS for custody. '[Thomas'] digestive tract and legs are still paralyzed and he gets 24 hour nursing care thru Texas Children's Hospital outpatient services. Please say a prayer for them.' To donate to the family's GoFundMe cause: click here. The head of the Southern Poverty Law Center on Friday announced that he is stepping down amid questions over its treatment of employees. Richard Cohen became he latest high-profile departure from the watchdog organization best known for its work monitoring extremist groups. The organization, which is based in Montgomery, Alabama, last week fired founder and prominent civil rights attorney Morris Dees for unspecified reasons. Southern Poverty Law Center President Richard Cohen sent an email to staff saying that he would be stepping down from his leadership role at the organization. Richard Cohen, (left), stepped down as President of the Southern Law Center a week after Morris Dees, (right), was fired, having founded the center in 1971 'Whatever problems exist at the SPLC happened on my watch, so I take responsibility for them,' Cohen wrote. Cohen in October had approached the organization's board about finding a 'new generation' of leadership. Cohen worked at the center since 1986 and and was made President in 2003, according to the the Montgomery Advertiser. He became one of the group's most prominent figures, bringing legal campaigns against the Ku Klux Klan and other hate groups. He wrote on Friday that he was stepping up that time frame in light of recent events, and asked the organization's board to immediately begin the search for an interim president 'in order to give the organization the best chance to heal.' He also asked his staff for patience as they bring in an outside party to review the organization's workplace environment. The SPLC did not elaborate on the reasons behind Dees' termination. Richard Cohen wants to give the organization 'the best chance to heal' with new leadership SPLC co-founder Morris Dees was dismissed from his position last week amid questions over whether its values were beginning to conflict with its treatment of staff In a statement about Dees' departure, Cohen only said the organization is '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.' The group this week announced it hired Tina Tchen, a one-time aide to former first lady Michelle Obama, to review its workplace. Tchen was chief of staff to the former first lady and now works for a Chicago law firm focusing on workplace issues including gender and racial equity and sexual harassment. Cohen asked SPLC staff to let the 'process play out before jumping to conclusions.' Florida Republican Matt Gaetz, (pictured), said the SPLC had unfairly labelled groups like the Christian Family Research Council 'We're going through a difficult period right now, and I know that we'll emerge stronger at the end of the process that we've launched with Tina Tchen,' Cohen wrote. Dees founded the Montgomery-based law center with a partner in 1971 as a watchdog for minorities and the underprivileged. A decade later he won a $7 million judgment against the United Klans of America on behalf of Beulah Mae Donald, whose son was murdered by KKK members in Mobile. The organization has sometimes been criticized for its aggressive fundraising tactics. In 2017, tax records show, the organization had some $450 million in assets. Last year, it agreed to pay a $3.4 million settlement after wrongly labeling a British organization and its founder as extremists. Florida Republican Matt Gaetz said the SPLC had unfairly labelled groups like the Christian Family Research Council (FRC). Tina Tchen, (pictured), a one-time aide to former first lady Michelle Obama, has been hired to carry out a review of the organization's operations and objectives 'The SPLCs conflation of mainstream political advocacy groups with legitimate hate groups and domestic terror groups is absurd, frequently indiscriminate and dangerous,' Gaetz said. Some staff at the center also raised concerns over whether its treatment of its minority employees contradicted the group's mission of combating hate and discrimination, The Los Angeles Times reported. About two dozen employees signed a letter and cited 'allegations of mistreatment, sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and racism threaten the moral authority of this organization and our integrity along with it,' according to The LA Times. Bill Maher has said he doesn't need the Robert Mueller report to know President Donald Trump is a traitor 'because he has a TV'. Speaking on his Friday night show the Real Time host said: 'I must say, I don't think it looks good. No further indictments, which means not Don Jr., even after the "I love it" memo, really? Not Jared, not Manafort or Stone for working with the Russians. 'Did the Democrats put too must trust in the Mueller report? Because I don't need the Mueller report to know he's a traitor. I have a TV.' Maher was joined by a panel of Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, GOP pollster Kristen Soltis Anderson and former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Defense for Russia Evelyn Farkas. After labeling Trump a traitor the audience the clapped in approval. Swalwell agreed, saying 'yes, if you have a TV or a Twitter account you've already seen obstruction of justice'. Real Time host Bill Maher said Friday night he doesn't need the Robert Mueller report to know President Donald Trump is a traitor 'because he has a TV' Special Counsel Robert Mueller has not recommended any new criminal indictments as he wraps up his Russia probe. Trump's attorney, Rudy Giuliani, said he and the president's other lawyers 'are confident that there is no finding of collusion by the president' Congressman @EricSwalwell: We are going to subpoena Robert Mueller. #RealTime pic.twitter.com/u08k4WiBI0 Real Time with Bill Maher (@RealTimers) March 23, 2019 Swalwell said: 'And people are on their way to jail, have gone to jail, there's probably a farming out of other investigations, but yes, if you have a TV or a Twitter account you've already seen obstruction of justice. 'But here's what's important is that the public sees the report contemporaneously with the president. He should not be allowed to edit, he should not be allowed to restrict or sanitize, and Mueller has to come before Congress and tell us its veracity.' He said they would subpoena Mueller to testify before Congress to make that happen. Anderson said she was 'glad' that the Mueller report was filed, suggesting that the president had helped to drive down the public's opinion of the special counsel's investigation. Maher added: 'He knows how to do that - to hammer the same thing every day, month after month after month. ''Mueller's dirty, I'm clean!" Can you imagine getting people to believe that?' Mueller has not recommended any new criminal indictments as he wraps up his Russia probe. He delivered a long-awaited report Friday to Attorney General Bill Barr, opening up the possibility that key members of Congress could know its bottom line by the end of the weekend. President Donald Trump's attorney, Rudy Giuliani, said he and the president's other lawyers 'are confident that there is no finding of collusion by the president.' A 15-year-old girl was removed from a Spirit Airlines flight due to overbooking while her mother and brother sat at the back of the plane unaware of the decision. The frightened teenager was flying from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Detroit, Michigan, in April of 2018, when she was asked to get off the plane just minutes before the scheduled take-off. Now the girl's mother Stacy Giordano, who says she did not realise her daughter was missing until mid-way through the flight, is suing the airline for $75,000 and claims the schoolgirl could not warn her as her cellphone was set to 'airplane mode'. The frightened teenager was flying from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Detroit, Michigan, in April of 2018, when she was asked to get off the plane just minutes before the scheduled take-off According to Giordano's attorney, Jerry Thurswell, the young teenager was removed from the plane due to overbooking and her seat was given to another passenger. 'They didn't want to hear anything. They just pulled her off the plane,' Thurswell told ABC News. 'When the child says "my mother's in the back of the plane, why are you taking me off?" and they just take the child off and say, "sit here, you'll be on the next flight out" - you don't just separate a child from their mother,' Thurswell added. Spirit Airlines reportedly refunded Giordano for a ticket and offered her extra miles. The young girl was put on another flight to her destination hours later, but Giordano and her daughter claim they suffered emotional distress because of the incident, and are seeking more than $75,000 in damages. Giordano claims she 'became sick, suffered a panic attack and suffered great emotional distress, extreme fear, horror, mental shock, mental anguish and psychological trauma' in not knowing where her daughter was, the lawsuit said. Spirit Airlines said in a statement: 'The safety and security of our guests is our top priority. It is our practice, however, not to comment on pending litigation.' A study conducted by Stanford University has concluded that, on average, black drivers are 20% more likely to be pulled over than white motorists. The damning conclusion came from the analysis of over 93 million traffic stops from 21 different state patrol agencies and 29 different police departments, between 2001 and 2017. The data was then cross-referenced to the number of people of driving age within each of the different police jurisdictions, and controlled for demographics, gender, reasons for the traffic stop and a number of other factors to create a standardized set of data. Revealing a quite significant racial bias, the study echoed a sentiment that African-Americans and other people of ethnicity have long shared. 'Relative to their share of the residential population, we find that black drivers are, on average, stopped more often than whites,' Stanford Computational Policy Lab wrote in conclusion of their study. On average, black drivers were determined to be 20% more likely to be pulled over than white motorists (file photo) Conducted by the Stadford University group, the Stanford Computational Policy Lab, authors of the study believe the results elude to 'evidence of widespread discrimination' in law enforcement Using what they call the 'veil of darkness' trial, the study's authors looked at the data from traffic stops after dark - when a driver's face is harder to discern - to further test the idea of a racial bias. They did in fact see a slight drop in black drivers being pulled over after dark, affirming racial discrimination as potential a factor. Interestingly, though the study determined that police were more likely to find guns, drugs and other contraband when stopping white drivers, black motorists were searched over two times more often. Across 16 different state patrols, searches of white drivers - who were typically searched at a rate of 1.5 percent - led to finding contraband 36 percent of the time. For black drivers, searched at an average rate of 3.8 percent of the time, only 32 percent were found to posses contraband. The study's authors believe their analysis 'reveals evidence of widespread discrimination' in law enforcement's decisions to stop and search drivers. 'I see the work were doing as opening the door and starting the conversation with local journalists, policymakers to start doing a deeper dive to understand whats driving the discrimination,' said Stanford data scientist Amy Shoemaker. 'And have conversations with police departments about how to make policy changes addressing these disparities and about the impact on communities of color.' The findings of the study correlate with with previous research, such as a Department of Justice survey analyzed by the Washington Post in 2011, which showed that black drivers were 31 percent more likely to be stopped than white drivers. To further strengthen the argument of racial bias, the study also considered the effects that states such as Colorado and Washington legalizing marijuana may have on stop and search statistics. And while the findings suggested that searches dropped dramatically for both white and black drivers, black motorists were still far more likely to be frisked. The results help to contextualize a decades-old argument from African-American activists who have long claimed to have been unfairly profiled by traffic cops. Taking the findings a step further, the data may also help the contextualize some of the high-profile traffic stop stories that have resulted in violence against, or the death of, black Americans. Walter Scott failed to stop for a broken tail light in Charleston, South Carolina in 2015. In the pursuit that followed he was shot dead by officer Michael Slager, who was later convicted of his murder. 'We hope that police departments start regularly analyzing their data and report the results of their findings,' the authors of the study say. 'Such analyses might include estimates of stop, search, and hit rates, stratified by race, age, gender, and location; distribution of stop reasons by race; and trends over time. 'More ambitiously, departments could use their data to design statistically informed guidelines that encourage more consistent, efficient, and equitable decisions.' Jeremy Corbyn has visited Morecambe as part of a local election campaign tour at the same time as one million people took to the streets for an anti-Brexit protest. The Labour leader, who has been criticised for a lack of clarity on his Brexit stance, spoke at the Lancashire town ahead of local elections on May 2. Meanwhile, the 'Put it to the People' march saw an estimated million protesters in the capital. Jeremy Corbyn (pictured above) took a stroll on the beach in Morecambe today after spending a day canvassing there While Corbyn enjoyed the beach crowds gathered in London to listen to speakers at a rally organised by the pro-European People's Vote campaign Many protesters waved banners and placards that criticised Corbyn's Brexit policy. One group had a picture of the Labour leader with the caption 'he's not the messiah, he's a very naughty boy', in reference to Monty Python's Life of Brian. Speakers addressing the rally outside Parliament include Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Labour's London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Labour deputy leader Tom Watson. Jeremy Corbyn chose to visit Morecambe ahead of local elections on May 2 rather than attend the 'People's Vote' march in London The Labour leader canvassed with local councillors in the Lancashire town, distancing himself from the protests in London Organisers of the march claim a million took to the streets of central London six days before the UK is due to leave the EU Former Labour MP Chuka Umunna joined in on the march wearing a t-shirt demanding a People's Vote. Jeremy Corbyn walked out of a cross-party meeting earlier this week when he discovered Umunna, the spokesman for The Independent Group, was present. Organisers of the march claim a million people turned up while the Metropolitan Police refused to comment on the numbers. Jeremy Corbyn has been criticised for not taking a firm stance on Brexit as the country nears its split from the EU Former Labour MP Chuka Umunna took centre stage during the protest, wearing a shirt alongside Anna Soubry expressing their support for the march as they were surrounded by anti-Brexit campaigners As well as campaigning against Brexit, this protester took the time out to express his dissatisfaction with the leaders of both of the UK's main parties Banners saying 'Labour for a socialist Europe' and 'Love socialism, hate Brexit' were seen at the protest despite Jeremy Corbyn's absence. Another waved two placards saying 'Corbyn and May betray the UK' and 'Working class against Brexit'. At the same time, the Labour leader joined councillors knocking on doors in Morecambe and spoke at the town's War Memorial Hall. An anti-Brexit and pro-socialist banner was unfurled and hung from Westminster Bridge before today's march in London started Former UKIP leader Nigel Farage stopped off at a pub in Nottinghamshire after speaking at a March To Leave protest - on the same day that 'one million' anti-Brexit protesters descended on London to call for another referendum. The newly appointed leader of the Brexit party rejoined the symbolic walk in the car park of the Horse and Groom pub in the village of Linby, Nottinghamshire, part of a 14 day, 270 mile route led by Leave Means Leave chairman John Longworth. The protest is on day eight of its journey from Sunderland to London and is set to finish with a rally at Parliament Square on March 29, the original Brexit day. The smiling Brexiteer sported 'Keep Calm And Carry On' cufflinks as he enjoyed a pint after slamming Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit policy as 'one of the saddest chapters in the history of our nation'. Former UKIP leader Nigel Farage, wears 'Keep Calm and Carry ON' cufflinks, as he drinks a pint of beer The cufflinks and broad smiles made the Brexiteer seemed relaxed and carefree - despite the huge anti-Brexit protest in London today He said: 'What has happened this week is not only a national humiliation but it is an outright betrayal because Mrs May now tells us we're not leaving next Friday despite telling us over a hundred times that we would be, despite putting a piece of law in place supported by 500 MPs. 'So there is something going on here that I believe to be one of the saddest chapters in the history of our nation and we will not take this lying down.' Asked about the March to Leave supporters being outnumbered on Saturday by the Peoples Vote March in London, he pointed to the cheering marchers gathered in a pub car park and said: 'There are 17.4 million here, can't you see them?' Nigel Farage addresses marchers from the top of a bus, as he brands Theresa May's Brexit policy as 'one of the saddest chapters in the history of our nation' Mr Farage took to the top of a double-decker open-top bus to address the crowds before leading them off on their trek to Beeston, also in Nottinghamshire. He told the marchers: 'What a week it's been. I was hoping to spend more time with you on the march this week but I've been in Brussels watching a British Prime Minister reducing our nation in the eyes of the world to the state of humiliation. 'Worse than that, the gap that's now opened up between the people and the politicians is such that, despite everything we were told in the referendum, everything we were told in general election manifestos, every promise that was made when 498 MPs voted for article 50 which said we leave on March 29 with or without a deal, the Prime Minister signalled that we will not be leaving this Friday. Farage party rejoined the symbolic walk in the car park of the Horse and Groom pub in Nottinghamshire The protest is on day eight of its journey from Sunderland to London and is set to finish with a rally at Parliament Square on March 29, the original Brexit day Speaking about Theresa May, he said: 'What has happened this week is not only a national humiliation but it is an outright betrayal' 'And that means this March to Leave could not be better timed.' Mr Farage was cheered as he said: 'Our message is very clear. If they think they can walk all over us, we're going to march back and tell them, no you can't, we will not give in, we will not roll over, we will fight and we know that we will get Brexit whether it's this Friday or at a later date. 'Whatever battles we face and have to fight, be confident because we are united. They are in the minority, we are in the majority. 'We are going to win this great historic battle and we will become again a self governing, independent, normal country not run by (Jean-Claude) Junker and the gang in Brussels.' Lyricist Sameer expressed his shock over his name in the credits of the film PM Narendra Modi starring Vivek Oberoi. Mumbai: After Javed Akhtar's tweet, Lyricist Sameer expressed his shock over his name in the credits of the film PM Narendra Modi starring Vivek Oberoi. Sameer told Mid-Day that he has not contributed to the film in any manner and has tried to reach out to the makers about the same issue. He told the tabloid, "After reading his tweet, I called Javed saab to tell him that I too was not approached by the filmmaker or the production house to work on the biopic. I havent written any song for the movie. I dont understand what they are crediting me for." Surprisingly, Sameer claimed that he tried contacting the music label T-Series but they are too clueless about it. Even if the makers have used any of my old songs, the music label should be aware. But in this case, they too are clueless," Sameer revealed. Before Sameer, Javed Akhtar had expressed his disappointment on Twitter. He wrote, "Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it! Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it ! pic.twitter.com/tIeg2vMpVG Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) March 22, 2019 Meanwhile, PM Narendra Modi stars Vivek Oberoi in and as the current Prime Minister of India. The film is helmed by Omung Kumar and will release on April 5, 2019, a week before Elections. Candidate for the Democrat presidential nomination Beto O'Rourke has said he still believes that President Donald Trump conspired with Russia to rig the 2016 election. O'Rourke was speaking at a town hall event at Burke High School in Charleston, South Carolina on Saturday morning when he doubled down on the Russian collusion theory. 'You have a president who in my opinion, beyond a shadow of a doubt, sought to, however ham-handedly, collude with the Russian government, a foreign power, to undermine and influence our elections,' O'Rourke said. 'It is beyond the shadow of a doubt that the president once in office sought to obstruct justice,' he continued. O'Rourke was speaking at a town hall event at Burke High School in Charleston, South Carolina on Saturday morning when he doubled down on the Russian collusion theory His remarks came soon after special counsel Robert Mueller submitted his investigative report, which a Justice Department official says indicates he will not file further indictments. In the course of the 22-month investigation, Mueller has not charged any American with conspiring with the Russian government to break election laws, and Trump's supporters took word that there would be no further indictments as proof that the collusion allegations were false. But the contents of the report have yet to be revealed, and Trump's opponents hope they will reveal malfeasance. US Attorney General Bill Barr is expected to hand Congress as early as Saturday the key findings of the report. O'Rourke, seen campaigning on Friday, reiterated his belief in a Russian conspiracy Trump is seen arriving in Florida on Friday to spend the weekend at Mar-a-lago. He has not tweeted or spoken publicly since news of the report broke Chronic tweeter Trump, who was at his Florida residence for the weekend, remained uncommonly silent after spending two years repeatedly labeling Mueller's investigation an illegal witch hunt. The White House has not received a copy of the report or been briefed on it, Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said on Friday. 'The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course,' Sanders said in a statement. Meanwhile Democrats in Congress, many of who are hoping for evidence to support a presidential impeachment, were pressing hard to ensure its full contents are made public, and not just a summary prepared by the Trump-appointed Justice Department chief. Clear skies mean parts of the UK are in with a chance of seeing the Northern Lights tonight. The spectacular light display could be visible in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, with the best locations in rural areas away from towns and cities. Dry and clear conditions in northern areas are ideal for spotting the Aurora Borealis, which is caused by charged particles being thrown around by solar winds. Those committed to getting a glimpse of the extraordinary weather phenomenon will have to endure below-freezing temperatures with some regions dropping to -2C overnight. Tomorrow will be sunnier than today but remain cold with clear skies and spring sunshine. Cloud will dominate in Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland and the north of England, but conditions will be much warmer with more sunshine on Monday. The Met Office said the phenomenon, known as the Aurora Borealis (pictured over St Mary's Lighthouse in Whitley Bay in 2014), may be visible in Scotland and parts of Northern Ireland Grey skies are pictured across Brighton today, where temperatures are cooling off as teh evening approaches Scattered showers will mean people in Edinburgh and Glasgow are likely to miss out. Further north, in the Scottish Highlands, or east, in Dundee and Aberdeen, the sky is likely to be clearer. The Met Office said there is a 'moderate' chance of seeing the sky light up in fabulous colours. The Northern Lights are created by disturbances in Earth's magnetosphere caused by a flow of particles from the Sun, and are usually concentrated around the Earth's magnetic poles. The southward shift of the lights today is caused by an ejection of plasma, known as a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) from the Sun, which followed a solar flare on Wednesday. The Met Office tweeted to tell people which parts of the countries are in with a chance of seeing the lights on Saturday evening CME forecast to arrive late 23rd March following C5 flare from sunspot AR2736. Active-minor geomagnetic storm periods possible with low risk of moderate storms. As a result, aurora may be visible in Scotland where cloud breaks. Latest forecast available https://t.co/JL4kEFnjRa pic.twitter.com/kxTtoqolDc Met Office Space (@MetOfficeSpace) March 21, 2019 Bonnie Diamond, meteorologist at the Met Office, said: 'A Coronal Mass Ejection has happened and the effects of that are expected to arrive later tomorrow evening. 'This type of active geomagnetic storm means that there is the possibility of the aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights. 'Whether or not you will see the Northern Lights depends on where you are and what the weather is like. Scotland is where you're most likely to see it. 'There's a couple of showers on the west coast of Scotland on Saturday evening, and with those showers there will be a bit of cloud. 'However, the clearest skies are further east in Aberdeenshire, where there are plenty of clear skies. Further north, you're pretty likely to see something.' The Met Office's Space account tweeted: 'CME forecast to arrive late 23rd March following C5 flare from sunspot AR2736. Active-minor geomagnetic storm periods possible with low risk of moderate storms. 'As a result, aurora may be visible in Scotland where cloud breaks. Latest forecast available' NOAA, an American agency that monitors the atmosphere, said the Northern Lights could be visible as far south as Michigan and Wisconsin in the United States. Virginia transit officials have said the state should stick with traditional railways and roads for now after checking out a tunnel dug by Elon Musk's Boring Company. Tech billionaire Musk unveiled his plans in December last year and said the future system will make vehicles 'capable of traveling safely at over 150 mph' when complete. But Michael McLaughlin, Virginia's chief of rail transportation, said: 'It's a car in a very small tunnel. If one day we decide it's feasible, we'll obviously come back to you. 'We'll give Elon Musk and the Boring Company credit for at least trying.' The Virginia Mercury reports the Commonwealth Transportation Board's public transit subcommittee has been looking into the state's rail infrastructure. They are said to have been considering a $1.3 billion bridge between Virginia and Washington but wanted to see if Musk's idea was more viable. Elon Musk, co-founder and chief executive officer of Tesla Inc., speaks during an unveiling event for the Boring Company Hawthorne test tunnel in Hawthorne, south of Los Angeles Virginia transit officials have said the state should stick with traditional railways and roads for now after checking out a tunnel dug by Elon Musk's Boring Company Commonwealth Transportation Board member Scott Kasprowicz made the trip with McLaughlin and public transit chief Jennifer Mitchell. He said: 'I think there's a lot of show going on here. I don't mean to suggest that they don't have a serious plan in mind, but I don't consider the steps they've taken to date to be substantive. Scott Kasprowicz, a Commonwealth Transportation Board member, said he 'thinks there's a lot of show going on here' 'They've purchased a used boring machine. They've put a bore in the neighborhood where they developed the SpaceX product, and they've taken a Model 3 and put guidewheels on it and they're running it through the tunnel at 60 miles per hour. 'None of that, I think, is really significant from a standpoint of moving this process forward. The reality is it's a great idea, but I'm not sure its time has come.' In December guests boarded Musks Tesla Model S and rode about one mile along Los Angeles-area surface streets to what is known as OLeary Station in his just-completed Hawthorne Test Tunnel. The demo rides, though considerably slower than the fully executed plan is expected to allow, ran at 40 mph. Musk said the future system will make vehicles 'capable of traveling safely at over 150mph. At that speed, it will feel like teleporting within a city.' 'For me it was a eureka moment,' he told a room full of reporters. 'I was like, "This thing is going to damn well work."' Just as with modern-day traffic signals, red means stop or slow down, and green means it's safe to accelerate Autonomous, electric vehicles could be lowered into the system on wall-less elevators the size of two cars. Such elevators could be placed almost anywhere cars can go. A number of autonomous cars would remain inside the system just for pedestrians and bicyclists. Once on the main arteries of the system, every car could run at top speed except when entering and exiting. Musk began The Boring Company, with its tongue-in-cheek name completely intentional, after announcing on Twitter almost exactly two years ago that 'traffic is driving me nuts' and he was 'going to build a tunnel boring machine and just start digging.' A double-amputee was rescued from an island in the middle of the Rio Grande River this week while he was trying to make his way into the United States. Agents from the Eagle Pass Station marine unit said they saw the vulnerable 37-year-old man by himself in a wheelchair stranded on an island in the center of the river. The Border Patrol says he was determined to be in the United States illegally and was assisted to the U.S. shore for medical attention and processing. Agents from the Eagle Pass Station marine unit said they saw the vulnerable 37-year-old man by himself in a wheelchair stranded on an island in the center of the river (pictured) The rescue comes shortly after two similar incidents involving people with special needs. On March 19, a Honduran man, 41 was taken into custody crossing the Rio Grande. Border patrol agents say they realized he was unable hear or speak, making communication a challenge. The day previous a 36-year-old Honduran woman was arrested entering the United States illegally with her step-brother. Agents found her to have a mental impairment that caused her to become agitated and inconsolable. The woman was calmed by her step-brother, so processing could be completed. 'The current humanitarian crisis on the border is stressing our immigration system,' said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. 'Our stations and processing centers were never designed to handle the current demographics of families and medical cases that we are experiencing.' The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. A three-year-old boy is fighting for life in Pakistan after being caught in crossfire in a drive-by shooting. Mohammed Ehsaan Khan, from Alum Rock in Birmingham, was shot next to his mother Yasmin Akhtar in a taxi. He was left in a bloodied heap in the back of the car after being shot twice, once in his stomach and again in his thigh. Mohammed Ehsaan Khan from Birmingham was shot twice after he was caught in crossfire in Pakistan The three-year-old was visiting family in Peshawar with his mother Yasmin Akhtar when the attack took place His mother, who travelled from Birmingham to Peshawar to visit family, was on her way to a local shopping mall with Mohammed and brother-in-law Sardar Ali, who suffered a gunshot wound to his hand. The mother-of six said a motorcyclist appeared and fired at the taxi driver who was shot in the shoulder. Mrs Akhtar, 33, said from Mohammed's hospital bed: 'Our holiday turned into hell. 'I've gone through the hardest thing a mother has to go through, seeing my youngest child lay lifeless not knowing what's going to happen next. 'The images of him will stay with me forever, seeing him in that taxi bleeding out. 'I'm not eating or sleeping at the moment, and I'm desperate to get back to the UK with Mohammed. I know he will get the best care back home. 'My son has been traumatised by everything. He's barely spoken since the shooting and he's in a surrounding he's never seen before, in constant pain. Mohammed's mother said a motorcyclist appeared at the window of their taxi and shot the driver The Foreign Office say they are supporting the family in Pakistan 'It's heartbreaking for me, his mother. He is crying for his daddy, brother and sister everyday.' Mrs Akhtar and Mohammed were meant to fly back to Birmingham on Wednesday after spending 15 days in Peshawar. She said Mohammed is slowly recovering but his condition remains critical at Lady Reading Hospital. She said: 'I'm scared for my son's life, of course. 'I just want my husband, I want to get us back home and for him to receive proper care. 'I'm desperate, I'm praying for my son.' The Foreign & Commonwealth Office confirmed staff are supporting the family in Pakistan following the shooting. A North Carolina woman has sued the owner of a Subway outlet after he allegedly slapped her during a dispute over a sandwich. Elizabeth Hinson, who goes by the name Tina Richardson, went to a Subway franchise run by Kenneth Lancaster in Concord on March 8 to get a Sesame-Ginger Glazed Chicken Wrap for an elderly woman. However he later slapped her in the face during an argument after she asked for a refund, according to a lawsuit seen by ABC News. A North Carolina woman has sued the owner of Subway outlet Kenneth Lancaster, (pictured), after he allegedly slapped her during a dispute over a sandwich The elderly lady told Richardson the wrap did not resemble the picture on the flyer advertisement and did not have a taste of ginger. She subsequent returned to the Subway to request a refund, which the employee refused, according to the complaint. Lancaster then appeared from the back, yelled expletives at her and told her to leave the store. Lancaster is seen aggressively walking towards the customer before raising his hand up Lancaster raises his hand towards the woman as she films the incident and and tells her to 'get the f**k out' of the store while shouting a number of expletives at her Richardson later shared footage of the incident on her Facebook page, which shows Lancaster walking towards her aggressively and raising his hand up. It is at this point, it is alleged, that he slapped her, according to the complain seen by ABC News. He then tells her to 'get the f**k out' and called the woman a 'c**t'. She then films the sandwich on the floor which he apparently knocked out of her hand. He tells her to 'go to hell' and flips her the finger when she asked him what his name is before walking off. The Sesame-Ginger Glazed Chicken Wrap that Richardson ordered his seen on the floor and she claimed that the owner did it after she raised 'a legitimate complaint' with him A female employee then comes out from a prep area and tells the woman to 'get the f**k out' In the video she states: 'This is what the owner of Subway Concord does to his customers who have a legitimate complaint.' He then comes back out of a kitchen area and tells her to get out along with another staff female member who said: 'you need to get the f**k out like he just told you to.' Bo Caudill, Richardsons attorney, told ABC News, that the video received over two million views. Richardson complained that the wrap didn't look like the one in the advertisement 'When she did not get the wrap that she ordered, Ms. Richardson returned to Subway expecting a simple refund. Instead, she received a slap in the face,' Caudill told ABC News in a statement. 'The violent conduct depicted in the video is disgraceful and deplorable, and should greatly concern everyone who eats at Subway and expects Subway stores and their owners to provide a safe, family-friendly environment, free of sexist discrimination and violence.' Subway, on behalf of Lancaster, issued a statement expressing regret for the incident, and claimed that it does not meet the company's standards. In a statement to WSOCTV.com, the sandwich outlet said: 'Providing an excellent guest experience is important to us and our expectation is that everyone is treated with respect. 'The local team has reached out to the guest to apologize on behalf of the restaurant as this incident is inconsistent with the high standards Subway restaurants requires of its Franchise Owners. 'The Franchise Owner expressed his regrets for how he handled the situation.' Shane O'Brien, 31, (pictured) is the chief suspect in the murder of 21-year-old Josh Hanson, who was killed in an unprovoked knife attack in a bar in Hillingdon. He has just been caught in Romania after going on the run four years ago Britain's most wanted man has finally been caught in Romania - four years after he allegedly knifed a man to death. Shane O'Brien, 31, originally from Ladbroke Grove in London, has been on the run since 2015 and is the chief suspect in the murder of 21-year-old Josh Hanson, who was killed in an unprovoked knife attack in a bar in Hillingdon, west London. Mr Hanson was stabbed in the neck in front of around 40 horrified onlookers. O'Brien is subject to a European Arrest Warrant on behalf of the Metropolitan Police. A 50,000 reward was put on O'Brien's head in 2017, two years after Mr Hanson's death. O'Brien, who heads the National Crime Agency's 'most wanted' list, was flown out of the UK in a privately chartered plane from Biggin Hill Airport after Mr Hanson's death. At the time, it was believed he could be hiding in the Netherlands but it later emerged he had travelled to Dubai. In February 2017 he was arrested in Prague for criminal damage and assault, but used the Italian alias of Enzo Mellonceli, supported by false documentation, and was bailed pending further enquiries. It is believed he had spent time in the Netherlands, Dubai and at least seven months in Prague where he may have had a string of affairs with women and spent time in boxing clubs, gyms and nightclubs. Police photos taken at the time show O'Brien had changed his appearance, having longer hair and a beard as well as a large tattoo of an owl holding a skull that covers a large portion of his back. This was to cover up a distinctive tattoo he had that said 'Shannon 15-04-06'. Mr Hanson, from Kingsbury, north-west London, died at the scene after the incident at the RE Bar in Hillingdon where he was stabbed in front of 40 onlookers An image taken then shows O'Brien has grown his hair, has a full beard and has a distinctive new tattoo of an owl holding a skull, which covers up his previous 'Shannon 15-04-06' tattoo O'Brien was placed on a world-wide most wanted list in 2018 after he had been on the run for three years Ian Cruxton, the National Crime Agency's head of international operations, said: 'O'Brien has spent several years looking over his shoulder as he has been at the centre of an extensive operation to track him down. 'I'm delighted that the pressure brought to bear by this has finally resulted in him being captured as a result of close working with the Romanian authorities. 'I hope his arrest offers some comfort to the family and friends of Josh Hanson.' Mr Hanson lived with his sister Brooke and mother Tracey in Kingsbury, near Wembley. Reacting to the news on Twitter, the Josh Hanson Trust, a charity set up in the wake of his death, thanked DCI Noel McHugh, the officer investigating the case followed by 'Love you Josh'. Another tweet read: 'Today on the 23rd of March 2019 and after 3 and a half years of waiting today is Josh's day.' In an emotional appeal from 2017, his mother said: 'Take a minute and look at your child and imagine your world without him or herno - neither could have I done before my son was brutally murdered in a totally unprovoked knife attack on 11 October 2015. 'These past 24 months have been a living nightmare, a nightmare that I would not wish on anyone. I nurtured my son from the moment I saw him, held his hand while he took his first steps, handed him his school bag on his first day of school and watched him grow into a bright, capable, funny and loving young man who worked hard and provided for his family. 'We laughed and cried together and shared our innermost thoughts and secrets; he was my son and he was also my best friend.' She added: 'He was my son and he was also my best friend...it rips at your soul and your very being.' The process of his extradition back to the United Kingdom has now begun. Mr Hanson's family have been kept fully up to date with developments. An off-duty Chicago cop has been shot dead while a second man remains in critical condition after a gunman began firing into a parked car in the early hours of Saturday morning. Both men, aged 23, were sat together in the River North neighborhood when two men approached and one began firing a gun into the car in an unprovoked attack. Another man - also an off-duty Chicago police officer - and a civilian woman were in the car as well but were not injured in the attack, police said. An off-duty Chicago policeman has been shot dead while a second man remains in critical condition after a gunman began firing into a parked car in the early hours of Saturday morning (picture shows evidence from the scene) Both men, aged 23, were sat together in the River North neighborhood when two men walked up and one began firing a gun into the car in an unprovoked attack The slain officer has been named as John P. Rivera, a resident of the Hegewisch neighborhood on the city's Far South Side. The tragic officer was shot in the mouth, chest and arm, and was pronounced dead at Northwestern Memorial Hospital shortly before 4am, police said. Rivera was just weeks from his second anniversary as a policeman. The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office said an autopsy was scheduled for tomorrow. The second man, who remains in critical condition, was shot in the chest and arm and was taken to Northwestern, where he is expected to survive. A manhunt is underway for the attacker who fled on foot. Police remain at the scene in Chicago with the area cordoned off while forensic officers gather evidence. Chief Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi called the attack a 'devastating incident,' and said persons of interest were being questioned During a press conference outside the hospital, Police Deputy Supt. Anthony Riccio said they were unaware of what could have sparked the shooting. 'It's a very fresh investigation,' Riccio said. Rivera and the attackers had 'no problems, no words were exchanged, no robbery demand, no carjacking demand,' Riccio said. Rivera was just weeks from his second anniversary as a policeman. The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office said an autopsy was scheduled for tomorrow Police remain at the scene in Chicago with the area cordoned off while forensic officers gather evidence. Chief Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi called the attack a 'devastating incident,' and said persons of interest were being questioned. 'It's a very sad day, we're mourning the loss of yet another Chicago police officer,' said a police union spokesman during the press conference. 'And yet, we're going out there later today,' he said, referring to officers working the beat on Saturday. A flight attendant who was brought to the U.S. illegally as a child has been released from the custody of U.S. immigration authorities after more than a month of detention. Selene Saavedra Roman, 28, said it feels 'incredible' to be free after she was released from an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Conroe, Texas on Friday evening. In a statement issued through a spokesman, Saavedra Roman said that when she left the detention center, 'I cried and hugged my husband and never wanted to let go.' She expressed gratitude for those who argued for her release, saying 'it fills my heart.' Selene Saavedra Roman (above) was released from an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Conroe, Texas on Friday evening Roman's attorney, Belinda Martinez Arroyo, said Mesa Airlines had mistakenly reassured the enrollee in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program that she could work a flight to Mexico, but Saavedra Roman was detained on February 12 upon her return to Houston. She is originally from Peru and came to the US aged three. Roman graduated college at Texas A&M and was granted legal work status under DACA. Roman is married to an American citizen, David Watkins, and is in the process of applying for legal residency status. Watkins told NBC that his wife had put Mexico and Canada on her 'no fly' list 'very intentionally' when she was hired by Mesa Airlines. Roman (above) who is enrolled in DACA was detained even after she was reassured by Mesa Airlines that she could travel to Mexico and be admitted back into the U.S. Watkins said he did not know his wife had been sent to Mexico. He learnt by text upon her return that she had landed in Houston but was being detained. 'It has been absolutely terrible,' Watkins said. 'Sometimes you have a nightmare and when you wake up you say, "Okay the nightmare is over." When I go to sleep, I have nightmares. When I wake up, I'm still stuck in the nightmare.' Former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton lent her voice to Roman's plight on Friday. 'This is an awful story: A DACA recipient in good standing was told by her airline she could work on a route to Mexico. Now she's in detention and ICE is threatening to revoke her status,' Clinton tweeted. Hillary Clinton mentioned Roman's plight on Twitter and asked people to sign a petition calling for her to be released from a detention center where she is being held by ICE She went on to ask people to sign a petition calling for Roman's release. Mesa Airlines apologized and joined the Association of Flight Attendants in also asking for her release. Immigration and Customs Enforcement says Saavedra Roman didn't have a valid document to enter the country. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services says on its website that those who travel outside the country without permission are no longer covered by the DACA program. A former animal rescue shelter employee has pleaded guilty in Louisiana for persuading a female co-worker into having sex with his dog. In a crime against nature, Booker Thomas, 43, admitted to a Shreveport judge that he actively encouraged his co-worker, 24-year-old Celina Cabrera, to engage in sexual relations with his pitbull. The pair first met working at the Caddo Parish Animal Shelter, in Shreveport, in 2016. Cabrera allegedly went through with the act on December 9 the same year, but the incident went unreported until February 2017. Shreveport police were alerted to the encounter when Cabrera came forward and told officers that Thomas had, after persuading her to go through with it, filmed the sex act on his cellphone. Booker Thomas, 43, (left) admitted to a Shreveport judge that he actively encouraged his co-worker, 24-year-old Celina Cabrera, (right) to engage in sexual relations with his pitbull The pitbull in question, along with another of Thomas' dogs, has been surrendered to the Caddo Parish Animal Control During their investigation, police failed to recover any videos documenting Cabrera and the dog, but found additional footage of a different woman having sex with the same pet. They also unearthed a number of text messages between Thomas and Cabrera, discussing the incident shortly afterwards. Cabrera pleaded guilty to a crime against nature charge in June and was given an 18-month suspended sentence, and 18 months of active supervised probation. Initially denying the depraved sexual scene ever took place, Thomas faced up to five years in prison and a $2,000 fine. Shreveport police were alerted to the encounter when Cabrera came forward and told officers that Thomas had filmed the encounter on his phone Thomas, striking a plea deal with prosecutors, was issued a three-year suspended sentence and surrendered his right to own animals for five years The pair first met working at the Caddo Parish Animal Shelter (above), in Shreveport, in 2016 But striking a plea deal with prosecutors, he was issued a three-year suspended sentence and placed on three-years of supervised probation. The 43-year-old was also ordered to surrender custody of all his animals, including another dog. As part of his plea deal, Thomas also relinquished the right to possess or look-after any animal for the next five years; work in either a paid of voluntary capacity with animals for five years; and undergo a psychological evaluation for sex offenders, participating in any necessary treatment. Ajay has also agreed to do extended cameos in films like Rajamoulis RRR and Rohit Shettys Sooryavanshi, which makes for eight releases. Ajay Devgn has found his eight ways to Friday in the next two years where he will be seen having back to back releases. Ostensibly, Ajay has not only found a way to emulate Akshay Kumars style of doing multiples films in a year but he has actually done a bit better. After the release and success of his last oeuvre at the turnstiles Total Dhamaal Ajay has a fantastic lineup. His next release will be De De Pyaar De where he is experimenting with a romantic comedy after many years. The trailer of that film will be out on his birthday on April 2. That will be followed by his historical war drama Taanaji: The Unsung Warrior and then by Neeraj Pandeys Chanakya. Ajay will also be working on the Syed Abdul Rahim biopic in the days to come with Badhaai Ho director Amit Sharma for producer Boney Kapoor. He has also greenlighted a film for Luv Ranjan along with Ranbir Kapoor that should also see an official announcement soon about when it will go on the floors. He had another film announcement recently that is based on the 70s and will see him as IAF officer Wing Commander Vijay Karnik, informs the trade source about his list of never-ending signups. Besides, Ajay has also agreed to do extended cameos in films like Rajamoulis RRR and Rohit Shettys Sooryavanshi, which makes for eight releases. With an actor like Akshay Kumar teaching other actors how to manage time and do several films in a year, we are sure that many more biggies will also follow suit. Sanskriti Media Porn star Teanna Trump has claimed she had sex with a 'really famous' Indiana Pacers player at the age of 16 and the pair filmed their encounters. The adult film actress, 23, made the shocking admission during a podcast where she said it was the sportsman who got her into porn. Teanna, whose real name is Keanna Nichele Jones, told the No Jumper podcast: 'So the person that, like, got me, got me, got me into porn was a Pacers player. 'I was 16 years old he hit me up on Instagram. We had pictures, we had videos of me 16 and having sex with this man. 'Sixteen is [the] age of consent though, so hes good.' In Indiana the age of consent is 16. Porn star Teanna Trump has claimed she had sex with a 'really famous' Indiana Pacers player at age 16 and the pair filmed their encounters The adult film actress said it was the sportsman who got her into porn Teanna added: 'I told him a couple years ago, I was like, "How old do you think I am?"' 'And he, like, said some dumb s**t, like 26. I was like, "No, and when I met you I was 16". Because, like, he would videotape me.' Host Adam22 then asked: 'Did he freak out when he realized that all his videotapes were child porn?' Teanna replied: 'No, and he still shows me em and a hacker got ahold of em. No one ever did, we never had it blown up and hes a really famous person.' The porn star did not name the NBA player but said she may identify another famous athlete that she says used her social media account to catfish men. She said: 'No, he went on there messaging men hey, messaging men acting like me but he was like, "I got a new number, hit me up, I got a new iPhone 10". And he would message them, ask them for videos.' Teanna was speaking on the No Jumper podcast to hhost Adam22, pictured left, when she made the admission. Teanna said the athlete played for the Indiana Pacers In 2016 she launched a crowdfunding campaign to help her get 'back on her feet' after she was released from jail. She pleaded guilty in Oklahoma to marijuana possession charges and was jailed for 180 days. A one-year-old California boy has died after he was viciously mauled to death by two Rottweiler dogs. The child had got out of the house and was in the front yard when two dogs that ran away from a neighboring home attacked him around 11am on Friday in Fresno. The boy's grandmother ran to get the child away from the crazed dogs but was bitten by one of the canines. Then the grandfather of the child came out of the house to help and successfully stopped the dogs by whipping them with a pipe hose, according to ABC. Police were called to the scene and performed CPR on the boy. He was taken to Community Regional Medical Center and pronounced dead. A one-year-old boy from Fresno was mauled to death by two Rottweiler dogs on Friday. The dogs pictured above in Central California SPCA custody following the attack The two dogs were captured at a home about a block and a half away from the residence where the child lived and they were euthanized that same day The two Rottweilers were captured at a home about a block and a half from where the incident took place and taken to Central California SPCA and were euthanized later that day. Investigators say the dogs got to the boy by digging a hole under the fence, running through a neighbors yard and ended up at the home of the child. No criminal charges are pending against the dogs' owners, who neighbors describe as 'good and friendly people'. Neighbor Theresa Davis says the dogs have been in the neighborhood for years. Investigators say the dogs got to the boy by digging a hole under the fence, running through a neighbors yard and ended up at the home of the child. Police pictured at the scene above No criminal charges are pending against the dogs' owners, who neighbors describe as 'good and friendly people' The incident took place in Fresno, California near the intersection of Kaviland and Fordham 'I said, "oh my god, this is horrendous, these dogs have been in our neighborhood for eight or nine years,"' David said recalling seeing pictures of the dogs behind the attack. The dogs lived in the home behind her and had a history of digging themselves out. 'Just primarily on the back fence, they've come out the side gate of their property, and recently discovered that hole a couple of days ago,' Davis said. Animal Control officers said they had no record of complaints against the Rottweiler's owners. Neighbors say the community is grieving for both hurting families. 'Just thinking about the little boy, the baby losing its life... it's a tragedy. Anybody with a heart would get teary at least,' neighbor Arcelia Ruiz said to ABC. Donald Trump Jr has used a Maury Povich meme to mock Democrats over the conclusion of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation. 'Democrats, the test results are back, and Donald Trump is your daddy,' read the text on the image Trump Jr posted on Instagram Saturday, a day after Mueller filed his final report. Trump Jr added in a comment: '... and your president,' along with three laughing emojis. The image depicted Povich, whose long running daytime talk show often features startling revelations about love triangles and cheating spouses. Trump Jr posted the above meme to his Instagram account on Saturday Trump Jr (seen last year) mocked Democrats saying that the 'test results' show that President Donald Trump is their 'daddy' It came as President Donald Trump's supporters trumpeted reports that Mueller will seek no additional prosecutions, despite months of feverish predictions that Trump Jr or other close Trump associates would be the next to face indictment. In the course of the 22-month investigation, Mueller has not charged any American with conspiring with the Russian government to break election laws, and Trump's supporters took word that there would be no further indictments as proof that the collusion allegations were false. But the contents of the report have yet to be revealed, and Trump's opponents hope they will reveal malfeasance. Attorney General William Barr is now expected to deliver his summary of Mueller's findings to Congress no sooner than Sunday. MSNBC's Rachel Maddow was disheartened at the news that Mueller would not seek further indictments. She is seen above interview Democrat Rep. Adam Schiff House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said in a statement that Barr's offer to provide congressional committees with a summary of the report's conclusions is insufficient and that 'Congress requires the full report and the underlying documents.' Senator Chris Coons, a Democratic member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said Trump and his core team could still face legal risks even if the report does not find that they committed crimes. Trump's business, his charity and his presidential transition operation remain under investigation, Coons said, and congressional Democrats would keep looking into his activities. 'It's the end of the beginning, but it's not the beginning of the end,' Coons told reporters on a telephone conference. A Verizon worker was suspended from his job for rescuing a cat which was stranded on top of a telephone pole. Maurice German was working in a neighborhood in Port Richmond, Pennsylvania last Saturday, when a resident asked him to help rescue 'Momma' the cat. The feline had been stuck on top of the pole for about 12 hours, CBS Philly reported. Verizon worker Maurice German, (left), was suspended from his job for 15 days after he helped a woman rescue her cat who had become stranded at the top of a telephone pole, (right) German obliged by using a boom lift to reach the cat as residents filmed the rescue operation and applauded the man. The cat was safely returned to its owner and was not harmed. But Verizon suspended German for 15 days, saying its vehicles and equipment were not intended to be used in the area where he operated. Verizon spokesperson Rich Young told CBS Philly: 'We take no joy in this job action. 'However, were committed and responsible for keeping our employees and customers safe while working in a particular area.' The telecommunications network said its field technicians are obliged to participate in safety training exercises with the intention of keeping both its workers and customers safe. He added: 'Unfortunately, while this employees goal was admirable, he potentially put his life and those around him in jeopardy. The cat called 'Momma' (pictured) was stuck at the top of the telephone for over 12 hours Maurice German, (pictured), helped to get the cat down after being a asked by a neighbor of the owner 'While our actions may not be popular, its in the best interest of our employees and the communities we serve.' Young said Verizon is making a donation to the Pennsylvania SPCA in Fishton to support the charity's animal rescue efforts. Amanda Boyce, of Port Richmond, told CBS that one of her neighbors attempted to rescue the cat from 12.30am to 1.30am on Saturday morning but to no avail. The cats owner called the fire department, animal rescue and the telephone company attempting to have their pet rescued. A colleague set up a GoFundMe account after German, (fourth from right), was suspended A number of people expressed their disappointment at the actions that Verizon took However another resident later found German in the area and asked for his help. Despite his goodwill gesture, Verizon still suspended the man - a move which prompted outrage amongst the local community. Two GoFundMe pages were set up to raise the amount that would have matched Germans' salary for working 15 days. One was set up by his colleague Keith Morales and in a description he wrote: 'The $4,650 goal is the equivalent of the 15 days (3 weeks) pay that Maurice will forgo for simply being a human being looking to help one of our 4 legged friends. 'Thank you in advance for your donation, and please remember that no donation is too small.' Morales' page has so far raised $2,478 of a $4,000 goal in just 17 hours and the other one has raised $440 out of a $2,400 goal. Gatwick Express and LNER are the UKs worst train companies with barely three out of ten trains arriving on time, government data has revealed. The Department of Transport-owned operator LNER achieved the shocking figures after taking over the East Coast mainline connecting London to Scotland. Govia Thameslink-run Gatwick Express managed the disaster despite running most trains over 50 miles of track between the capital, one of its busiest airports and Brighton. This comes as Govia Thameslink was fined 5million last week for disruption caused to passengers following the timetable change in May. Gatwick Express and LNER were the worst train companies in the UK, with the fewest number of trains arriving at the right time at their destination LNER trains dropped to average barely a third of their trains arriving at the right time last year Govia Thameslink-owned Gatwick Express saw a similar dip in train punctuality, with three in 10 trains arriving at the right time CrossCountry was the second worst UK train company, with an average of 34 per cent of its trains arriving at the right time TransPennine Express, operating trains in the north of England, was the third worst operator with 37.4 per cent of trains arriving at the right time on average CrossCountry, which links Aberdeen, Sheffield, Birmingham and Exeter among others, was the second worst UK train operator with 34 per cent of its trains at the right time. TransPennine Express was the third worst, pulling in with 37.4 per cent of its trains on time. The heavily criticised company operates trains in Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and Glasgow. Northern, which also operates trains across the north of England, was the seventh worst company with just over five out of 10 of its trains arriving on time. The Southern mainline was the 10th worst last year with 55 per cent arriving on time, and Thameslink came 14th with 64 per cent. Gatwick Express runs most of its trains across 50 miles of track between London, one of its main airports and Brighton TransPennine Express, which has been heavily criticised by customers, also saw low punctuality for its train service Northern, which runs services across the north of England, saw a sudden drop in the number of trains arriving at the right time last year ScotRail also sees a regular change in its punctuality, although it only dropped below 40 per cent of trains arriving on time on one occasion several years ago Out of the UKs 23 train operators, Arriva Trains Wales was the best, according to government figures, after on average 81.4 per cent of its trains arrived on time. Caledonian Sleeper, which runs an overnight train between London and Scotland, and the London Overground were together the UKs second best railway services with eight out of ten trains arriving at the right time on average. The third best was Buckinghamshire's Chiltern Railways which saw 79 per cent of trains arriving on time. Arriva Trains Wales was the best train company in the UK with 81.4 per cent of its trains arriving on time London Overground was second best in the UK with 79.6 per cent of its trains arriving on time Caledonian Sleeper, which runs trains between London and Scotland, was also on average second best in the country with an average of eight out of ten trains arriving at the right time Chiltern Railways, in Buckinghamshire, was the UK's third best railway company with 79 per cent of its trains arriving on average at the right time last year The Office of Rail and Road released right time statistics every four weeks through 2018. These were averaged for the past year for each train company to reveal the shocking results. Trains are marked late if they arrive more than 59 seconds behind their scheduled arrival time. Train ticket prices went up by as much as three per cent in January despite falling performance. An LNER spokesman said the company has been working hard to improve punctuality. Were pleased to say that this is starting to have an impact with our performance showing signs of improvement so far this year, for example our Right Time at Destination for the last period was 45 per cent compared to the yearly average of 32 per cent. Transport for London trains also scored highly with on average 78.7 per cent of trains arriving at the right time The Southern mainline was seventh worst in the UK with on average 55 per cent of its trains arriving on time Were also very excited that new rolling stock will begin to be introduced from May, which will help us to continue improving our punctuality and provide a great service for our customers. The core performance problems on the East Coast mainline over the past year are well known, including challenging weather conditions, an ageing fleet and issues with infrastructure. A Gatwick Express spokesman said: The vast majority of trains do arrive within five minutes of schedule but running trains fast and to the minute on what is the most congested rail route in the country is a challenge. Also, with just 141 services a day, punctuality rates are easily affected when something holds up a train. Operational changes have already made noticeable improvements to this years punctuality figures and more enhancements will be introduced this spring. Almost nine out of 10 passengers were satisfied with their Gatwick Express journey in the latest national passenger satisfaction survey a 7 per cent increase. A TransPennine Express spokesman said: 'We are working with Network Rail and other train operators to deliver improved performance at every point of the journey.' They also said that working with the East Coast and West Coast main lines, as well as sharing other lines with 'stopper services' has contributed to delays. 'These interchanges, and the signalling regulation of trains, affects the delivery of right time and, although our Public Performance Measure has improved significantly since the December 2018 timetable change, the rail industry recognises the importance of delivering right time services consistently for customers.' MailOnline has contacted CrossCountry, Northern and Southern for comment. The U.S. Government is offering $1,000 to people willing to adopt a wild horse or burro to target an overpopulation of animals on public lands. The Adoption Incentive Program aims to reduce recurring costs associated with caring for wild horses and burros. It wants to help the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) confront a growing over-population of wild horses and burros on public range lands, BLM said in a statement. Wild horses roam free on state and some private land outside Milford in Utah with damaged and overgrazed land in the foreground and green grasses in the background Both wild horses and burros are federally protected since 1971, when the Wild and Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act was signed into law. The animals are also considered a powerful symbol of the American West and have long been immortalized in movies and literature. According to the law, the animals are protected from 'capture, branding,harassment, or death.' The $1,000 incentive is offered to those who adopt a wild horse or burro that is eligible for a new home after March 12 can receive $500 within 60 days of the adoption, in addition to another $500 within 60 days of 'titling the animal.' Most of the U.S.'s estimated 75,000 wild horses live on public lands which are generally large expanses that the government controls in the American West. Preservation societies and government agencies encourage the public to visit and view North Americas wild horses as long as it is done from a respectful distance. There are over 45,000 wild horses currently in holding areas, costing taxpayers about $50 million annually. The U.S. Department of Interior sought to address this expense in 2018 budget by lifting regulations that prevent slaughtering wild horses. Wild horses are held in a holding/adoption facility after being rounded up from BLM land in Delta, Utah A burro roams free on state and some private land in Milford, Utah, as authorities struggle as to what to do and how to control the burgeoning horse population in the West If slaughtering wild horses becomes legal, some animal rights activists are concerned that these horses will become extinct. In January concerns were raised over BLM's practice of using helicopters to herd horses off public lands and sometimes permanently put them into holding facilities in an effort to control their population. Simone Netherlands, an animal rights activist, told ABC News in January: 'Sometimes these horses get stampeded for miles and miles. 'The BLM, the very agency in charge of protecting them, is asking Congress for permission to kill them," Netherlands said. 'They've stockpiled wild horses in holding pens and so now what are they going to do with all the horses that they've stockpiled? The Adoption Incentive Program provides up to $1,000 to adopt an untrained wild horse or burro from the BLM 'The adoption rates are not high enough so they can't adopt them all out. So now we have a bunch of wild horses that the taxpayers are paying for and holding facilities and their solution is kill them.' But Lisa Reid, a BLM spokesperson, said the agency's goal is to always have healthy horses on healthy range lands. 'There's three things that wild horses need: food, water and obviously space. 'As you can see we do have millions of acres out here, but not every acre is producing viable forage for the horses. 'So you know just as with any type of species they have to be managed just so that they don't become ... overpopulated and diseased.' She added: ''By our count we are overpopulated by sometimes 300 percent on most of our herd management areas. 'The Bureau of Land Management is a public agency. We have to answer to all groups. ... So we have to try and find that balance to make sure that we can do what's best for the horses.' New Yorkers and a handful of other Americans may not have to travel to the remote glaciers of Greenland or Iceland to catch a glimpse of one of the world's most fascinating phenomenons this weekend - it may be coming to them instead. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a geomagnetic storm may make the Aurora Borealis visible over Upstate New York this weekend, and may even extend to other parts of Northern America. Such regions are projected to include New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Montana, Northern Idaho and Washington state. NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) signaled the beginning of the geomagnetic storm on Friday, but the Northern Lights are only likely to be visible from Saturday night. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a geomagnetic storm may make the Aurora Borealis visible this weekend NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) signaled the beginning of the geomagnetic storm on Friday, but the Northern Lights are only likely to be visible from Saturday night In the northern-most parts of the US, night-sky gazers will have the greatest chance of catching a glimpse of natural light display at around 10.55pm, a NOAA forecast predicts. This isn't the first time a sighting of the Aurora has been possible over the US. In 2017, New York and several states in the Upper Midwest witnessed a shimmering hue of green and purple lighting up the sky. In 2011, the Northern Lights were even spotted as far down south as Alabama. However, as various weather conditions have to align perfectly for the phenomenon to appear, a sighting is far from guaranteed. 'I would not drive out of my way for this particular event,' said Terry Onsager, a physicist at NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center to The New York Times. The reason, Onsanger goes on to reveal, is that there is no guarantee the geomagnetic storm will even hit earth - particularly at the optimum viewing hours, just before midnight. In the northern-most parts of the US, night-sky gazers will have the greatest chance of catching a glimpse of natural light display at around 10:55pm (pictured: the Northern Lights over Upstate New York, in June 2015) Projected regions to be treated to a sighting include New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North and South Dakota (pictured in 2003), Montana, Northern Idaho and Washington state To see the Aurora Borealis, a near-full moon and clear, dark sky are mandatory requirements (pictured Tennessee in 2011) He said a chunk of the sun's atmosphere began hurtling towards Earth this week, which is expected to collide with our planet's magnetic field on Saturday. That collision would produce the glow of the Northern Lights, but it may have already taken place during the day, as the impact could have occurred as early as 11am, NOAA say. Cloud coverage could also play a part, as many of the potential viewing locations listed by NOAA currently foretasted for a cloudy evening. To see the Aurora Borealis, a near-full moon and clear, dark sky are mandatory requirements. NOAA officials advise checking your area's weather forecast prior to hatching any observation plans. But it could be good news for residents of Syracuse, New York, where clear skies are forecasted for Saturday night. 'We have to be realistic,' NBC meteorologist Ben Gelber told the Times. 'We have to dampen expectations, to be honest. '[But] Theres always a remote chance. 'You dont want to close the window and figure out the skys breaking at the right time.' A secret Government report has warned that more than 3,000 British children are being taken to Pakistan each year and enrolled in extremist summer schools. The chilling Home Office study says courses at madrasas teach a 'glorified version of jihad', according to a source. Officials fear some youngsters will be radicalised and return to the UK with a warped ideology and pose a terrorism risk. 'It is highly likely that this education in Pakistan, even for short periods of time, increases the risk of exposure to extremism for British-Pakistani children,' the source told The Mail on Sunday. Denial: Students are seated at Pakistans Jamiatul Uloom Ul Islamia madrasa - the report identified this madrasa as among three of concern 'Enrolment at madrasas poses the greatest risk of exposure to more serious forms of religious extremism.' Two of the 7/7 bombers, Mohammad Sidique Khan and Shehzad Tanweer, enrolled on madrasa courses in Pakistan a year before they launched their deadly attack in 2005, which killed 52. But the security services have established that some Pakistani parents take their children back to their native homeland during summer holidays under the pretext of visiting extended family. In reality, they sign them up for lessons at some of Pakistan's estimated 20,000 madrasas. The report says some of those madrasas receive funds raised in Britain and that UK-based imams have established seminaries in their ancestral homeland. It identifies three madrasas of concern the Darul Uloom Haqqania (DUH) madrasa in the remote Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region bordering Afghanistan; the Jamia Binoria in Karachi and Jamiatul Uloom Ul Islamia in Azad Kashmir. Each has denied involvement in extremism. The DUH madrasa has previously been labelled the 'University of Jihad' because former students include Asim Umar, an Al Qaeda leader, and it awarded an honorary doctorate to the former Taliban leader Mullah Omar. There are also fears that British taxpayers may have inadvertently provided it with funds. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, which controversially handed a 2.2 million grant to the madrasa in 2016, will have received 283 million from Britain to help boost education when a ten-year project ends in 2020. A satellite image shows a remote madrasa near Balakot, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan Denying any involvement with extremists, the madrasa's chief Maulana Hamid ul Haq said: 'If you ask questions about the 'Taliban', 'Taliban' is a term used for students so we call all students 'Taliban'. If some of the students turn violent or extremist, then what can we do? We have nothing to do with it.' The Jamia Binoria madrasa has been accused of adopting a 'pro-jihadi and anti-Western stance' and has reportedly enrolled foreign students. However, an official said British students no longer attended and the madrasa had no involvement in extremism. The British founder of the Jamiatul Uloom Ul Islamia madrasa, based in Mirpur, also denied any links with terrorism. Haji Bostan, from Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, said no British students had enrolled and that no form of extremism was taught. A Department for International Development spokesman said: 'All funds for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are for agreed purposes. It does not include funding for madrasas.' A giant cocktail shaker serving 2,400 gallons of alcohol from a cement mix style truck will go on a tour of Florida next week. The 27 feet long, 13 feet tall and eight feet wide vehicle will head to various locations around Orlando. It can hold the equivalent of 12,000 bottles of Monkey Shoulder, makers say. The truck will be filled with the Mixed Up Monkey cocktail which is made from whiskey, mint simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, soda and mint leaves. Seb Derbomez, US Monkey Shoulder Ambassador, said: 'Many consider whisky sacred and precious. Many take their cocktails very seriously. 'We respect that, but believe people should play with their whisky, and enjoy the experience. The Monkey Mixer is a great to share this message in a big and unmistakable way.' The giant cocktail shaker can hold 2,400 gallons of alcohol in a cement mix style truck The 27-feet long, 13 feet tall shaker will go on a tour of Florida next week The truck will be filled with the Mixed Up Monkey cocktail which is made from whiskey, mint simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, soda and mint leaves It also boasts an impressive sound system with three amplifiers, four speakers and three subwoofers. The truck will head to the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace on March 29 and 30, The Orlando Sentinel reports. There are said to be extra stops, all open to the public, being added through to April 2 after it made its debut during Arizona Cocktail Week last February. The truck will head to various locations around Orlando next week and comes complete with rotating drum to mix the Mixed Up Monkey cocktail Advertisement The death toll from Cyclone Idai has more than doubled to 732 but the United Nations said the final casualty figure in southern Africa will not be known until flood waters recede. The new figure comes as the Red Cross's chief in Mozambique's port city of Beira, which was devastated when the cyclone struck on March 14 before moving inland across Zimbabwe and Malawi, said the destruction is 'worse than we imagined'. Hicham Mandoudi, head of the sub-delegation for the Red Cross in Beira, said: 'Every day we discover that the destruction left by Cyclone Idai is worse than we imagined. The death toll from Cyclone Idai has more than doubled to 732 but the United Nations said the final casualty figure in southern Africa will not be known until flood waters recede (Above: The owner of a destroyed bar in Beira, Mozambique The new figure comes as the Red Cross's chief in Mozambique's port city of Beira, which was devastated when the cyclone struck on March 14 before moving inland across Zimbabwe and Malawi, said the destruction is 'worse than we imagined' Above: A man stands near his wrecked car in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe. Hicham Mandoudi, head of the sub-delegation for the Red Cross in Beira, said: 'Every day we discover that the destruction left by Cyclone Idai is worse than we imagined' 'We are deeply concerned about remote communities that are cut off by flooding and landslides and are yet to receive any humanitarian assistance.' 'More rain is expected to come, which will compound the suffering of people who have already lost everything,' he added. The UN said that, until the rains stops and flood waters recede, the ultimate casualty figure will not be known. 'We're going to have to wait until the flood waters recede until we know the full expanse of the toll on the people of Mozambique,' said U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) coordinator Sebastian Rhodes Stampa. Mozambique's government formally requested assistance from the international community, the U.N. humanitarian office said, opening the door to further aid efforts. But UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday appealed for stepped up support for victims of Idai, saying that 'far greater support is needed'. Above: A man carries two children through the flooded streets of Beira. The UN said that, until the rains stops and flood waters recede, the ultimate casualty figure will not be known Above: Flooded buildings in Beira seen from the air. 'We're going to have to wait until the flood waters recede until we know the full expanse of the toll on the people of Mozambique,' said U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) coordinator Sebastian Rhodes Stampa Above: A 15-year-old girl holds the hand of her sister through floodwaters in Buzi, Mozambique, yesterday. The country's government formally requested assistance from the international community, the U.N. humanitarian office said, opening the door to further aid efforts Above: The desvastation caused by flooding is clear as people waited on rooftops to be rescued on Tuesday. At least 417 people have been declared dead in Mozambique alone, Land and Environment Minister Celso Correia said, with Beira only able to be reached by land or sea People collect metal sheets from a damaged supermarket to re-build their destroyed houses following the devastation caused by Cyclone Idai in Beira He said in a statement that 'with crops destroyed in the breadbasket of Mozambique more people are at risk of food insecurity in all three countries.' At least 417 people have been declared dead in Mozambique alone, Land and Environment Minister Celso Correia said, with Beira only able to be reached by land or sea. And at least 259 have died in Zimbabwe, while in Malawi 56 people died in heavy rains ahead of the cyclone. In all three countries, survivors have been digging through rubble to search for victims, and scrambling for shelter, food and water, while governments and aid agencies try to help. The British public have so far raised 6million in aid to support the cyclone victims, in an appeal launched on Thursday by the Disasters Emergency Committee, with a further 2million from the Government bringing the figure to 8million. Yesterday, a team of ex-military volunteers, trained and experienced in disaster response, will traveled to Mozambique. Team Rubicon UK's advance team anticipated they would be working to get aid and water into the most remote, cut-off communities. The volunteers, predominantly military veterans, will focus on delivering where the need is most acute, with expertise in water purification, needs assessment, drones for damage assessment support and last-mile logistics. However, rescue workers in Mozambique fear an outbreak of cholera, dysentery or malaria could take the death toll from Cyclone Idai even higher after the country's President said as many as 1,000 people could have died. Up to 500,000 people are still believed to be at risk and accompanying heavy rains have triggered floods, and inundated swathes of farmland, while health services and clinics have broken down and water supplies have been damaged. People walk on the flooded street of Buzi, central Mozambique. The storm has also killed 259 in Zimbabwe, while in Malawi 56 people died in heavy rains ahead of the cyclone A woman walks with her daughters through floodwater in Buzi, Mozambique, yesterday. The British public have so far raised 6million in aid to support the cyclone victims, in an appeal launched on Thursday by the Disasters Emergency Committee, with a further 2million from the Government bringing the figure to 8million But rescue workers in Mozambique fear an outbreak of cholera, dysentery or malaria could take the death toll from Cyclone Idai even higher after the country's President said as many as 1,000 people could have died. Above: An 11-year-old girl wakes up beside her sister after sleeping among plastic sheets in Buzi, Mozambique An aerial view shows Beira, central Mozambique, on Wednesday, after the passage of cyclone Idai Medecins Sans Frontieres aid workers said people would resort to drinking water contaminated with waste and sewage as well as dead bodies which will be discovered as water levels recede. One aid worker said: 'With latrines having been washed away and sanitary systems disrupted, open defecation and the pollution of water sources is a major concern. These can lead to waterborne illnesses, such as cholera and typhoid.' About 90 percent of the infrastructure in Beira city alone has been destroyed, said rescue workers, and rescue teams are battling to reach communities cut off due roads and bridges being washed away. In Malawi, where almost 1 million people have been affected by floods, aid workers said they were worried about the spread of disease in some 170 makeshift camps where more than 125,000 people have sought refuge without sufficient toilets. 'This may be the most devastating such disaster in the region's history, and its damage can escalate quickly if we do not act immediately,' said Concern Worldwide's U.S. chief executive Colleen Kelly. 'We must prevent a second wave of destruction from additional flooding, crop loss, hunger, and potential disease.' Donate to Team Rubicon here. Citizen science programs provide valuable data on intermittent rivers in southwestern US A University of Oklahoma-led project is showing how citizen science programs provide valuable data on rivers in southwestern United States. The datasets of ecological and hydrological data obtained from intermittent rivers (rivers that dry at some point in space or time) in Arizona are input into a nationwide network. Trained citizen scientists are mapping three rivers in Arizona: the San Pedro River, Cienega Creek and Agua Fria River. The wet and dry data collected yearly from these programs map information on how to best manage water resources under a changing climate. "It is difficult to get good quality data about how much water is in intermittent rivers. Most of our existing infrastructure for measuring river flows in the United States is geared towards monitoring water levels of perennial rivers, which are those that always flow. Citizen science groups provide valuable contributions to the field of river science, as the data they produce would not be available otherwise. Without that data we wouldn't be able to answer basic research questions like how the length of wet river reaches in these rivers has changed over time, and what these changes might mean for fish that live in these rivers," said Daniel Allen, assistant professor in the Department of Biology, OU College of Arts and Sciences. In this study, these three groups of citizen scientists divide up and measure the river using a simple method that includes measuring the river from where it begins to where it ends in places where there is at least 30 feet of water. The three long-term wet and dry datasets produced by citizen science river monitoring programs describe landscape drying patterns, examine how they vary over time and use models to quantify landscape drying patterns and temperature, precipitation, stream flow and drought metrics. While trained citizen scientists conducted the wet and dry surveys on each of these rivers, Friends of the Agua Fria National Monument organize the Agua Fria River surveying effort. The Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management organize the upper Cienega Creek surveys, and the Pima County Association of Governments organize surveys of the lowest reaches of Cienega Creek. The Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management organize surveys on the San Pedro River. The data from these surveys is used to generate maps on long-term trends in the three rivers. Two of the rivers measured in this study, the Cienega Creek and the Agua Fria River, showed significant decline. The San Pedro is the only one of three rivers did not decline, which may be due to a groundwater management resource plan in effect. It may be that the declining rivers have no protection and groundwater use has increased during the recent droughts in the area, leading to surface water declines. Changes in landscape drying patterns in intermittent rivers have strong implications for fish connectivity and bird migration. Drying patterns are likely to decrease connectivity for native fish who need long stretches of unbroken river to reproduce. Rivers in this region are important for the millions of birds that migrate from South America and stop in the region on their way north. The cottonwood and willow trees where they roost during resting periods are typically only found next to rivers where there is water year round. The southwestern United States has experienced large droughts over the past several decades, and the extent of river drying will likely continue as a result of climate change. Citizen science programs focused on mapping wet and dry sections of rivers and streams are valuable and could be expanded unmonitored intermittent rivers. New technologies, such as smartphone applications, are being developed to improve efforts and aid in integrating data collected by different programs. This type of program could be expanded across the United States to study the variables impacting intermittent rivers in different climates and by different intensities of human water use. ### This study is part of a larger effort to create an intermittent river research coordination network funded with a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. A paper is available in the journal Freshwater Science at https:/ / www. journals. uchicago. edu/ doi/ full/ 10. 1086/ 701483 . For more information, contact Professor Allen at dcallen@ou.edu. This story has been published on: 2019-03-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. They alleged that Mir was brutally killed by two Pakistani terrorists who were also killed in the final assault of the security forces. According to the police, both the militants were killed by the security forces and that from the incriminating material recovered at the site of the encounter, it is understood that the two killed terrorists were Pakistani nationals, identified as Ali and Hubaib. (Representational Image) Srinagar: Six militants and a minor boy were killed and three Army jawans injured in a series of gunbattles that took place across Kashmir Valley late Thursday night and on Friday. 12-year-old Aatif Ahmed Mir, killed during one of these gunfights, had been held hostage by two militants holed up inside a private house in Hajin area of northern Bandipore district, officials said. They alleged that Mir was brutally killed by two Pakistani terrorists who were also killed in the final assault of the security forces. A police spokesman here said that the Pakistani militants belonging to Lashkar-e-Tayyaba (LeT) had initially taken two civilians hostages after the security forces laid siege to the area on Thurs-day evening. However, the police and security forces with the assistance of community members safely rescued one of them identified as 60-year-old Abdul Hameed, the spokesman said. Another civilian, a 12-year-old boy Aatif Mir, was kept hostage by the terrorists till the end and despite repeated requests by community members and the police for his release, he was brutally killed by them, the spokesman said. According to the police, both the militants were killed by the security forces and that from the incriminating material recovered at the site of the encounter, it is understood that the two killed terrorists were Pakistani nationals, identified as Ali and Hubaib. Four more militants were killed in similar clas-hes with security forces at Kalantara Payeen in Bar-amulla district and Gadap-ora in southern Shopian district, officials said. They said that one of the two militants killed at Kalantara Payeen has been identified as Aamir Rasool, a resident of north-western town Sopo-re, whereas the other is believed to be a Pakistani national. The duo, they added, was associated with proscribed JeM, the outfit responsible for the Pulwama terror attack. The identities of the militants killed in Shopian encounter are being ascertained, the officials said. At least, one dozen people, including policeman Tariq Ahmed, were injured in clashes near the encounter site in Shopian, a report said. Witnesses and hospital sources said that while the policeman was hit by a stone during the clashes, nine persons sustained pellet injuries and one person was hit by a bullet in the neck as the security forces used force to quell the stone-pelting mobs in the area. During the encounter, nine residential houses and a few cowsheds and granaries caught fire, the reports received here said. Meanwhile, a J&K policeman Irshad Ahmed was shot and critically wounded by unidentified gunman in Court Road New Townhall area of southern Anantnag town on Friday evening. He was immediately evacuated to the hospital, the police said. It blamed the attack on militants. A drunk passenger urinated on another passenger's luggage during a flight from Chicago to Charlotte, police have said. American Airlines requested police meet the passenger at the Flight 1344 gate once it arrived in Charlotte at 12.52am on Thursday, it was reported. Airline officials said that 'due to an intoxicated passenger, police were waiting at the gate to arrest the suspect, who has not been identified in police reports. A drunk passenger urinated on another passenger's luggage during a flight from Chicago to Charlotte, police have said. American Airlines asked law enforcement to meet Flight 1344 once it arrived in Charlotte at 12.52am on Thursday, it was reported A police report said the victim was a female passenger though there is little information about the suspect arrested. A spokeswoman for the Charlotte office of the FBI told the Charlottesville Observer Saturday that the FBI was notified of the police report Friday. It comes just a month after an American Airlines flight bound for Philadelphia was canceled after one of the pilots was arrested on suspicion of being intoxicated. The airline confirmed the incident involved 'a member of its crew at Manchester Airport' in England on February 19. The name of the pilot has not released. 'The employee was detained and the flight, AA735 to Philadelphia, has been cancelled,' a statement from the airline said. Greater Manchester Police told the Manchester Evening News that they followed up on reports that a pilot my be under the influence: 'Officers attended and a 62-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of performing an aviation function when over the prescribed limit of alcohol.' In a statement, American Airlines said: 'safety is our highest priority. 'We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement and further questions should be referred to them,' the airline concluded. In its emotive fundraising films, Comic Relief paints a bleak picture of impoverished Britons in desperate need of cash to combat hunger, deprivation and homelessness. But today The Mail on Sunday can reveal that the charity is sitting on a cash pile of almost 117 million nearly twice the total donated on Red Nose Day. Last night, critics blasted Comic Relief bosses for hoarding the sizeable sum. Tory MP Andrew Bridgen said: It is clear that the famously generous British public will not be happy if their donations are merely swelling the reserves of an already well-funded charity. It is difficult to see who the reserves are actually aiding, apart from the organisation itself. Im sure that was not where people intended their generous donations to go. Stacey Dooley went to Uganda for Comic Relief to discover more about projects Britons have funded their with their donations Rowan Atkinson played a vicar for a revival of Four Weddings and a Funeral for this year's Red Nose Day special Actresses Lily James (left) and Alicia Vikander played characters who were married for the special production Comic Reliefs most recently published accounts also show it spent 11.9 million on salaries in 2017, with 30 staff earning more than 60,000 and five pocketing more than 100,000. The news comes a week after The Mail on Sunday revealed that the BBC faced fierce criticism for allowing stars such as Ed Sheeran to paint a downbeat picture of Britain and effectively deliver an advert for Jeremy Corbyn. In one film, charity co-founder Lenny Henry warned that real hunger is hitting a huge number of people in this country. However, Comic Relief itself is in fine financial fettle. According to its most recent figures, its 116.9 million reserves in 2016-17 were up from 93.5 million the previous year. The lions share of that is a balance of 66 million in donations yet to be paid out in grants, plus a 50 million war chest intended to keep the charity running for six months in the event of an emergency, including a collapse in the value of its investments. The MoS has also learned that Ministers have expressed concern about Comic Reliefs spending. The Department for International Development (Dfid), which has given taxpayers cash to fund some of the charitys projects, has sought assurances that Comic Relief money was being spent on good causes rather than going towards running costs or lost to fraud. The charity is currently investigating three separate fraud allegations involving a total of 867,000. In 2017, Comic Relief chief Liz Warner reassured Priti Patel, who was International Development Secretary at the time, about how they planned to review and tighten our systems to address the issues. Comic Relief last night declined to give details of exactly what her comments related to. But a source close to Dfid said: There was concern about where all Dfids donations to Comic Relief were going, particularly as the charity had quite high staffing and administrative costs. Dfid said action was taken after Comic Relief discovered fraud in a partners programme, adding: Funds were recouped and no taxpayers money was lost. Joanna Lumley taking part in this year's Red Nose Day special for Comic Relief This years Comic Relief fundraiser, which included a Four Weddings And A Funeral reunion starring Hugh Grant and Lily James, raised more than 63 million, but that was 8 million less than the previous appeal in 2017. Last night a spokeswoman said: Comic Relief is committed to making sure every pound the charity gets directly from the public goes towards helping transform the lives of people dealing with poverty and injustice. She said no public donations went to the emergency war chest and that Comic Relief takes a zero-tolerance approach to corruption. It would be a moment to make any parent proud: having a poem or story their child wrote selected for publication after entering a competition. But the Young Writers scheme, which runs across 7,000 schools in Britain, has been branded a 'manipulative, immoral' ruse to part proud parents from their cash. For it is claimed that sometimes almost every entrant is chosen, putting pressure on thousands of parents to buy 15.99 books containing the work. The competition is run by a company owned by a convicted fraudster with an expensive taste in cars, fuelling parents' suspicions. Ian Walton seen driving a 2017 F-Type Jaguar, worth up to 50,000. The convicted criminal, who runs a publishing business, is accused of ripping off school pupils who want to see their work in print Clare Mackintosh, herself a successful thriller writer, said her pride that her daughter had been selected turned to 'alarm bells' when she found out more. Her ten-year-old rushed home excitedly brandishing a letter about winning a creative writing competition, but Ms Mackintosh, whose novels have sold more than two million copies, explained: 'The letter stated my daughter's story had been 'chosen for publication' but the reality is that practically every entry is chosen. 'All I have to do is sign the permission slip, on the reverse of which is a handy order form, with which I can order the finished anthology at an eye-watering 15.99 per paperback copy. Young Writers is not a scam in the strictest sense of the word, but it is unethical. 'Relatives aren't compelled to buy a vastly overpriced book, but the combined effects of peer pressure and emotional blackmail mean most of them will. There is little or no selection process this is vanity publishing, not a competition.' An advert from Young Writers invites children age 7 to 11 enter a spooky themed saga for a competition in December Hertfordshire father Steve Berry, 47, called the competition 'manipulative and immoral'. He said: 'My daughter came running home from school and said, 'My poem has been published in a book.' I was delighted and said, 'Well done, sweetie, that's amazing.' Then she produced the order form which says that you can buy the book for 15.99. 'I started thinking, 'Hang on a minute' I was furious when I discovered almost every other pupil in her class had also won. Out of 30, about 26 of them are published. The whole thing is just a ruse.' Last night the National Association for Primary Education said: 'We have some concerns that there are publishers who exploit parents' goodwill for the benefit of selling their books.' The company that publishes the children's work, Bonacia, is run by Ian Walton, 69, who was given a suspended sentence of 16 months in Spain a year ago for fraud and instructed to pay back 150,000 to parents who had ordered books that never arrived. He previously ran Young Writers through the company Forward Press, but that went into voluntary liquidation in 2010 owing 1.6 million and leading to 70 redundancies. But just three days later, Bonacia controversially bought the rights to Young Writers for just 1. Bonacia has made 700,000 profits since it was formed in 2005. Walton, who started Young Writers in 1991, lives in a 500,000 period cottage in rural Cambridgeshire, where he was recently seen driving a 2017 F-Type Jaguar, worth up to 50,000. His daughter, Morgan, now runs the Young Writers scheme. She denied it was 'immoral', saying: 'We try our hardest to make sure parents do not feel like they have to buy a book. However, as a parent myself, we feel pressure on a daily basis to spend money on our children. 'I, for one, would much rather spend my 15.99 on something that encouraged my daughter over the latest fad item. 'We are clear there is no obligation to buy the book and provide the school with a free copy of the book their pupils feature in so all children can see their work in print.' Panicking crowds fled from Disneyland Paris tonight as reports of a blast put the children's theme park on lock-down. A faulty escalator at the main railway station for Disneyland Paris sparked mass panic on Saturday night. Visitors to the theme park heard 'loud noises' and then 'screaming' as they were caught up in the drama which was recorded shortly after 9pm. There were fears of explosions and even gunshots, but a spokesman for the RER station at Marne la Vallee said: 'It seems that a malfunctioning escalator has caused the problems. Families and other tourists could be heard shrieking as they rushed from the scene as fear spread throughout Disneyland Paris on Saturday night 'It began working erratically, and causing loud noises. It may be that some people have been hurt in this accident.' Police and soldiers were seen flooding the area around the station, which is around 20 miles from the centre of the French capital. It follows warnings from terrorist groups including Islamic State and Al-Qaeda that Disneyland is a prime target. Following the RER escalator problems, visitors to Disneyland were briefly confined in buildings, including the police station. 'I was at a coffee terrace when I saw people running and screaming,' said one vistor. 'We all started running in panic and I took refuge at the police station with dozens of other people. There were resports of disturbing noises at the station.' A spokesman for Disneyland Paris said: 'There has been no explosions, no shootings, no injuries. It a false alarm. 'Please don't read any rumours or stories that over exaggerate - the lockdown and police attendance were standard procedure following any sort of incident.' In January 2016 a man was arrested in a hotel in the hugely popular leisure complex carrying two handguns, ammunition, and a 'guide to the Koran'. A woman and a young boy dash from the resort (left) and crowds look back towards the entrance to the theme park as people can be heard shrieking (right) Bomb disposal experts surrounded his car after the weapons were detected in luggage put through an X-ray machine. Staff stopped the 28-year-old man before anti-terrorist commandoes were scrambled to the scene. In February of the same year the man was sentenced to six months wearing an electronic tag for arms possession, after investigators decided not to press terrorism charges. Disneyland Paris is among Europe's most-visited tourist destinations, with up to 10 million visitors a year. A model who attended Silvio Berlusconis notorious bunga bunga parties and died in mysterious circumstances told her sister she was a marked woman days before her agonising death. Moroccan-born Imane Fadil, 34, was a key witness in the trial of the former Italian prime minister when he was accused of paying for sex with an underage girl and lurid details emerged of debauched sex parties at his Milan villa. Earlier this month, days before she was due to testify against him again, she died of organ failure after telling her brother and lawyer she had been poisoned. Moroccan-born Imane Fadil, 34, who attended Silvio Berlusconis notorious bunga bunga parties and died in mysterious circumstances, told her sister she was a marked woman days before her agonising death Dangerous levels of toxic metals cadmium and antimony were found in her body and, while pathologists and her lawyer ruled out radiation poisoning, police have launched a murder inquiry. Last night, Ms Fadils sister Fatima said the young model had feared for her life in her final days, adding that her life had been destroyed by her involvement in the scandal. The court case had become her obsession. 'She didnt sleep for days on end with the questions eating away at her, the fear, disbelief, she said. She described how Ms Fadil became penniless, yet rejected her familys offers of help and lived like a recluse on the outskirts of Milan. She said she was a marked woman and said it was unjust that she was suffering financially when it was her that had told the truth, said Fatima. Imane Fadil died earlier this month, days before she was due to testify against Silvio Berlusconi, the former Italian prime minister. She died of organ failure after telling her brother and lawyer she had been poisoned When I called her, she had a swollen stomach, her eyes were yellow, with dark circles, she often had blood coming from her nose and all these tubes attached to clean her blood, as the doctors called it. 'This is all the fault of all the stress, the fear, the pressure. During Berlusconis trial in 2012, Ms Fadil told how young women, some dressed as nuns, would strip and pole-dance, and claimed some were paid 10,000 to stay the night and have sex with Berlusconi, including Karima El Mahroug, a prostitute nicknamed Ruby the Heartstealer who was underage at the time. Berlusconi, 82, was cleared on appeal. Berlusconi resigned over the sex scandal in 2011 and now intends to run for the European Parliament in May. He is accused of giving cash and other gifts to more than two dozen models and escorts in exchange for them lying in court during the first trial. During Berlusconis trial in 2012, Ms Fadil told how young women, some dressed as nuns, would strip and pole-dance, and claimed some were paid 10,000 to stay the night and have sex with Berlusconi. Asked about Ms Fadils death, Mr Berlusconi said: I never met this person, never talked to her' Authorities have not ruled out a rare disease causing Ms Fadils death. A full post-mortem is due this week. Asked about Ms Fadils death, Mr Berlusconi said: I never met this person, never talked to her. What I read of her statements made me think that everything was invented, absurd. A 26-year-old woman was killed in a hit and run in upper Manhattan on Friday night by a Bronx man who police have detained and charged with numerous counts. Erica Imbasciani, a Brooklyn artist, was struck by a GMC Yukon Denali driven by 27-year-old Tryik Cooper, the NYPD explained to NBC New York. As Imbasciani was trying to cross Amsterdam and West 141st Street at around 10pm, Cooper struck the woman with his black 2003 SUV and pinned her against a parked car before driving off. Erica Imbasciani, a 26-year-old Brooklyn artist, was struck by a GMC Yukon Denali driven by 27-year-old Tryik Cooper on Friday in Hamilton Heights As Imbasciani was trying to cross Amsterdam and West 141st Street at around 10pm, Cooper struck the woman with his black 2003 SUV and pinned her against a parked car before driving off The artist - originally from Staten Island - was rushed to St. Luke's Hospital but succumbed to the severe head and body trauma that she suffered, local authorities said. Cooper was charged with vehicular manslaughter, leaving the scene, driving without a license and driving while impaired by drugs. He is said to have struck another SUV that was waiting for a red light after taking off from the original scene in Hamilton Heights. The artist - originally from Staten Island - was rushed to St. Luke's Hospital but succumbed to the severe head and body trauma that she suffered Cooper is said to have struck another SUV that was waiting for a red light after taking off from the original scene in Hamilton Heights That was where police detained the Bronx man. It is currently unknown whether Cooper has a lawyer. He has had previous arrest for turnstile jumping and drug possession. Lisa Imbasciani, the woman's mother, took to Facebook on Saturday to mourn her daughter. 'My beautiful, brilliant and talented daughter Erica was taken from us last bight by a Hit and Run driver,' she said in the post. 'I don't know how to live from this point on. I miss you my baby. I wish it was me.' Theresa May could be ousted from No 10 within days after her Cabinet plotted to replace her with Michael Gove as a caretaker Prime Minister. A senior Downing Street source told The Mail on Sunday last night that even Mrs Mays Chief Whip, Julian Smith, had advised her to set out her departure plans, with Environment Secretary Mr Gove emerging as the consensus choice to succeed her. Mr Gove is being championed by Cabinet Brexiteers who are furious about what they see as an attempted coup by Remain-backing David Lidington, Mrs Mays de facto deputy. Last night Henry Newman, one of Michael Goves most loyal supporters and a former aide, said the Prime Ministers ill-judged speech blaming MPs for the Brexit crisis united Labour and Tory critics against her A senior Government source said yesterday that there was now complete unanimity in the Cabinet that Mrs May should step down as soon as possible. In a number of astonishing, fast-moving developments, coming just days before a series of historic Commons votes: No 10 warned Tory rebels that, if they didnt back Mrs Mays deal, the Commons could revoke Article 50, effectively cancelling Brexit; Mrs May mounted a last-ditch effort to save the deal by pleading with Jacob Rees-Mogg to drop his opposition as his European Research Group made plans to select their preferred leadership candidate; A tearful Tory whip accused Mrs May of betraying Brexit and destroying our party; Boris Johnson demanded to the Prime Ministers face that she rule out leading the party into an Election, while her aides wargamed what would happen if Mrs May went to the country if the Commons rejected her Brexit deal again; No 10 scheduled the crunch votes for Wednesday and Thursday, with MPs voting on Mrs Mays deal and alternative options such as membership of a customs union; Chancellor Philip Hammond refused demands by Cabinet colleagues to wield the knife and tell the Prime Minister that she had to resign; Tory MP Nigel Evans said that, if Mrs May agreed to resign, then the partys Brexiteers would support her deal; Central London was brought to a standstill as anti-Brexit protesters staged a major march calling for another EU referendum. The Cabinets move against Mrs May comes after a disastrous week in which she blamed MPs for the delay to Brexit in a live televised address, which left Mr Smith incandescent with rage. She was then humiliated by EU leaders at a summit which agreed that, if her deal is defeated again, then Parliament will have just two more weeks to find an alternative, or risk a no-deal Brexit on April 12. A senior Government source said yesterday that there was now complete unanimity in the Cabinet that Prime Minister Theresa May should step down as soon as possible A senior Government source said Mr Smith had conveyed the message [that Mrs Mays Cabinet colleagues believe she should stand down] to the PM. A Downing Street spokesman said that they did not comment on private conversations. The collapse in the Prime Ministers authority has triggered rival Cabinet plots by Remainers and Brexiteers to seize power. Pro-Remain Cabinet Ministers, led by Mr Hammond and Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd, have been backing Cabinet Office Minister Mr Lidington to take over as temporary Prime Minister. But when pro-Brexit Cabinet Ministers, led by Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson and Chief Secretary to the Treasury Liz Truss, found out that Mr Lidington was holding talks with Labour MPs about votes on soft Brexit measures they moved quickly to stifle the plot by backing Mr Gove instead. Under the plan, Mr Gove would see through Brexit as PM, before a full leadership contest in the summer. One senior Cabinet Minister told The Mail on Sunday: The public will never forgive us if in a time of historical crisis our answer is David Lidington. This is where it is going to get very scary, whatever you think about it. Last night Henry Newman, one of Michael Goves most loyal supporters and a former aide, said the Prime Ministers ill-judged speech blaming MPs for the Brexit crisis united Labour and Tory critics against her. He added: I think she will have to offer to step down to get her deal through. A series of so-called indicative votes will be held next week to test which alternatives to Mrs Mays deal are likely to pass the Commons, including a Norway-style customs union or even cancelling Brexit. One senior Minister warned rebel Tory MPs that, if they continued to vote down Mrs Mays deal, then they would be on a conveyor belt to Norway possibly with Jeremy Corbyn leading the way. The Minister added: If we do not deliver Brexit we are so unbelievably f****d, not just as a party or a Government, but in a national way. Now is the time to be bold, a customs union is a cop-out its the easiest solution for Parliament but the worst solution for the country. It has to be Mrs Mays deal, or no deal. We cannot be allowed to drift into the worst position, but that is what David Lidington is manoeuvring us to and there is no upside to it. Another Minister said that it was a matter of arithmetic that Mrs May should set out her departure date: Just look at the numbers of people saying they would back the deal if she sets out a timetable for her departure and add them up. Say no more. A series of senior Conservative figures warned Mrs May last week that she has lost the confidence of her party. Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the Conservatives 1922 Committee, visited the Prime Minister on Monday, where he told her that the number of colleagues calling for her to go was growing. Mr Johnson also repeatedly challenged Mrs May to rule out leading the party into a General Election this year which she has refused to do. It is understood that all but one member of the Tory whips office think that her time is up. One, Paul Maynard, was in tears recently when he told the Prime Minister: Ive heard enough. When I was told that we would have to come over and talk to you I began to cry. I said I dont want to go over and talk to that woman any more. Shes betrayed Brexit, destroying our party. I want her gone. Mrs May replied: Im sorry you feel that way. Education Minister Nadhim Zahawi warned yesterday of a political meltdown if Mrs Mays deal is rejected again. 'It's a f****** coup': Cabinet war over plot to replace Theresa May with her No 2 leaves Michael Gove favourite to be caretaker Prime Minister By Glen Owen and Harry Cole for The Mail on Sunday After a torturous 14 hours at the EU Council, the Prime Minister returned to the British residency in Brussels in the early hours of Friday morning and demanded a large whisky. But back in Westminster, her closest Cabinet colleagues were preparing to hand Theresa May a revolver to go with it. Senior Cabinet Ministers and allies are privately urging Mrs May to set a departure date to help get her beleaguered Brexit deal over the line as a matter of arithmetic. Michael Gove (right) has emerged as a consensus candidate who could bring the crucial backing of both Remainers and Brexiteers, and act as a caretaker Prime Minister should a plot to force Mrs May (left) from office go ahead Cabinet sources have told The Mail on Sunday that Mr Lidington was initially reluctant to step into the role of caretaker but was told it would be a four-month job' with a strict mandate But others have simply decided her time is up and have spent the last three days plotting how to oust her. A senior Downing Street source told this newspaper: Discussions about the Prime Ministers future are ongoing. On Friday evening, David Lidington, the pro-EU Cabinet Office boss and de facto deputy PM, was said to be in the advanced stages of a plot to force Mrs May from office and herald a long Brexit extension as an interim leader who could build a cross-party Brexit deal. But as news of the plan leaked, it sparked a furious Cabinet backlash that saw Michael Gove emerge as a consensus candidate who could bring the crucial backing of both Remainers and Brexiteers. Cabinet sources have told The Mail on Sunday that Mr Lidington was initially reluctant to step into the role of caretaker but was told it would be a four-month job with a three-pronged mandate: to negotiate a long extension, to oversee testing of what Parliament wants and to ensure a fair Tory leadership contest. A source said: David is 60. It would be his last job in politics and what a way to go out. The key players are on board. Its just a matter of when. The Mail on Sunday has learnt that Cabinet big beasts including Amber Rudd and Jeremy Hunt have urged Mr Lidington to knock on the door and call time on Mrs Mays premiership. The Mail on Sunday has learnt that Cabinet big beasts including Amber Rudd and Jeremy Hunt have urged Mr Lidington to knock on the door and call time on Mrs Mays premiership In the febrile atmosphere in Westminster, there were even claims Michael Gove had initially supported Mr Lidington acting as caretaker, with one source claiming the plot was far less factional than Brexit lines. However, as word of Mr Lidingtons manoeuvrings ripped through Westminster on Friday evening, Brexiteer Ministers were quick to brand the Cabinet politicking a Remainer coup, with former Vote Leave boss Mr Gove touted by Ministers and MPs for the job instead. One senior Cabinet Minister told The Mail on Sunday: The British public will never forgive us if, in a time of historical crisis, our answer is David Lidington. This is where it is going to get very scary, whatever you think about it. If we do not deliver Brexit, we are so unbelievably f*****, not just as a party or a government, but in a national way. Now is the time to be bold. A customs union is a cop out its the easiest solution for Parliament but the worst solution for the country. It has to be her deal, or no deal. We cannot be allowed to drift into the worst position and that is what David Lidington is manoeuvring us to there is no upside to it. And another Cabinet Minister branded the plot a f****** coup. ...And if he gets into No 10, will old foe Boris ever get him out? Bookies last night slashed Michael Goves odds of being the next Prime Minister. The Environment Secretary is now 5/1 joint favourite with his rival Boris Johnson to take the Tory crown. Should Mr Gove secure the keys to No 10, it would be a remarkable turnaround after he stabbed Mr Johnson in the back during in the 2016 Tory leadership battle, when he withdrew his support for his fellow Brexit campaigner at the last minute so he could stand himself. Bitter rivals: Michael Gove and Boris Johnson pull pints of beer at the Old Chapel pub in Darwen in Lancashire, as part of the Vote Leave EU referendum campaign Having initially been sacked by the victorious Theresa May, Mr Gove was subsequently brought back into the Cabinet fold and has spent the last year being studiously loyal to the Prime Minister in public, as he sought to repair his reputation among the Tory grassroots. Although Mr Gove was touted as a consensus caretaker last night, Mr Johnson will be wary of letting his nemesis become Tory leader without a fight. Last night, a Ladbrokes spokesman said: Money for Michael Gove in the past few days has left the firm with no choice but to cut his odds of becoming the next PM. Mr Gove continues to attract punters cash. Advertisement Outside of the Cabinet, one Minister furiously rejected Mr Lidington stepping in, saying: You might as well put the permanent secretaries in charge. They added: This is a pipe dream for the bland brigade, who must be deluded if they think replacing uncertainty with more uncertainty is going to fix anything. The backlash also broke on to the airwaves and social media, as Tory MPs began openly discussing Mrs May standing down. After it emerged Mr Lidington had discussed soft-Brexit plans with Labour MPs, Tory Brexiteer Michael Fabricant compared his pro-EU stance to that of Britains appeasing of Hitler in the 1930s. The outspoken backbencher hit out: With the PM acting like Chamberlain, we now have David Lidington freelancing and acting like Lord Halifax hoping to come to an accommodation with Labour. Enough is enough! Asked if the PM would still be in post by next month, fellow Tory Marcus Fysh told BBC2s Newsnight: I dont know. We are starting to get to the stage where it really would have been good to have better negotiations going on, he added. And fellow Leaver James Duddridge, tweeted #Resign. Tory peer Lord Gadhia said: She may not survive to the end of the week. He added: It is quite possible that she herself may decide actually, look, I am an obstacle to a resolution of this process. So we may have a very dramatic week. Leadership speculation is gripping all corners of the parliamentary Conservative party, with other Ministers privately accepting that a General Election under a new leader would be needed to achieve a fresh mandate from the public ahead of Round Two of EU negotiations over a trade deal. And Brexiteer hardliners in the European Research Group are determined not to repeat their disastrous implosion during the 2016 leadership battle which allowed Mrs May, who had campaigned to Remain, to come through the divided Brexiteers. Senior MPs in the ERG plan to hold their own leadership contest to unite around one candidate. They point out a Brexiteer only needs to come second, with 105 MPs behind them, to proceed to the final round a vote of the overwhelmingly Eurosceptic party membership. Last night a source close to Mr Lidington said the claims from his Cabinet colleagues were nonsense, adding: David has not discussed anything of the sort. His focus is on getting the PMs deal agreed. Downing Street is eyeing one last attempt to get Theresa Mays deal over the line by placing it in stark contrast to a soft Brexit that would see Britain like Norway stay in the EUs single market. Whips have warned No 10 that they are powerless to stop a bid by MPs to seize control of Commons business tomorrow to demand indicative votes of Parliaments Brexit desires, so Downing Street is poised to offer the votes on Wednesday. Under current plans, Brexiteer MPs and the DUP would then be given one final chance on Thursday to back Mrs Mays deal or accept the soft Brexit compromise most likely to be chosen by MPs. Under current plans, Brexiteer MPs and the DUP would then be given one final chance on Thursday to back Mrs Mays deal One Cabinet Minister told The Mail on Sunday: Brexiteer colleagues need to understand they are a conveyor belt to the Norway model if the deal is voted down. Last Tuesday, the Cabinet discussed how to get round Speaker John Bercows ruling that Mrs Mays deal could not return to the Commons by restructuring the wording of the motion and encouraging influential figures to put public pressure on the Speaker to let the vote take place. Last night Education Minister Nadhim Zahawi warned of chaos if the deal was voted down again, saying: It would be political meltdown and Parliament would have failed. He added that he was not prepared to countenance Britain taking part in the EU elections as part of a long delay. We may not yet have found evidence of alien life, but that doesnt mean it hasn't found us. This is according to a group of scientists who gathered this week in Paris to discuss why, despite decades of searching and the high probability that life exists beyond our own atmosphere, weve yet to make contact. One possibility, albeit unflattering, could be that intelligent aliens are intentionally shielding us from the truth because humans would struggle to cope with the reality of their existence, some say. Researchers at the METI International meeting proposed that aliens could be keeping us in somewhat of a galactic zoo, simply watching us without revealing themselves so as to avoid spurring cultural upset on Earth. Despite decades of searching and the high probability that life exists beyond our own atmosphere, weve yet to make contact with extraterrestrial life. Scientists say that could be because they're hiding WHAT WILL WE DO IF WE MAKE CONTACT? Basic protocols for our first contact with aliens were put in place in the 1980s, but these are merely guidelines, rather than an action plan for dealing with alien contact. Dr Seth Shostak, who leads the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Institute's efforts to detect radio signals from alien civilisations, has previously said a more detailed action plan must be put in place. In November last year he said our current response to aliens 'would be like the Neanderthals having a plan in case the US Air Force showed up.' In the 1990s, Dr Shostak chaired a committee that prepared a 'post-detection protocol' for researchers listening for alien transmissions. But these have remained largely unchanged since then, and are seen as guidelines, rather than a definite plan for dealing with alien contact. Advertisement The day-long workshop organized by METI International (Messaging Extraterrestrial Intelligence) is held every other year in Paris, according to Forbes. Scientists from all disciplines gathered at the Cite des Sciences et de lIndustriem science museum to explore a question that dates back to 1950, now known as the Fermi Paradox: Where is everybody? While its an unnerving thought, some suggest extraterrestrial observers have been there all along without us realizing it. It seems likely that extraterrestrials are imposing a galactic quarantine because they realize it would be culturally disruptive for us to learn about them, said co-chair Jean-Pierre Rospars, the honorary research director at the Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, according to Forbes. Cognitive evolution on Earth shows random features while also following predictable paths. 'We can expect the repeated, independent emergence of intelligent species in the universe, and we should expect to see more or less similar forms of intelligence everywhere, under favourable conditions. Theres no reason to think that humans have reached the highest cognitive level possible. Higher levels might evolve on Earth in the future and already be reached elsewhere. To break the silence, then, the researchers say we may need to be more direct in our approach. Humanity may not yet have found evidence of alien life, but that doesnt mean they havent found us, some scientists say Douglas Vakoch, president of METI, likens this to a zebra in a zoo who suddenly turns to look you in the eye and punches out prime numbers with its hoof. Such an extreme and unexpected prompt would most certainly provoke a response from the observer. Perhaps extraterrestrial are watching humans on Earth, much like we watch animals in a zoo, Vakoch said, according to Forbes. How can we get the galactic zookeepers to reveal themselves? For humans using a scientific approach, that prompt could be radio signal transmissions to nearby stars. Its something thats been attempted on numerous occasions going back to the early 1970s, when scientists beamed for the first time an intentional message into space, using the Arecibo Radio Telescope in Puerto Rico. But, it seems well just have to keep trying. There's something addictive about Bologna, with its long porticoed streets, sun-baked squares, cavernous churches and labyrinthine lanes dotted with bars and cafes. It is home to the western worlds oldest university (dating from the 11th century) and there are tremendous towers that make the mind boggle. The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region retains a delightfully sleepy feel perfect for a lazy weekend. Bologna stuns with its sun-baked squares, cavernous churches and labyrinthine lanes dotted with bars and cafes, writes Tom Chesshyre WHERE TO STAY Hotel University Close to the campus, this small hotel with 22 smart rooms is on a narrow street with pink and ochre old buildings. Its popular with parents visiting children attending the university, but it also suits those after simple lodgings in a central location. B&B doubles from 82 (hoteluniversitybologna.com) Best Western Hotel San Donato Don't let the chain-brand name put you off. This is in an ancient building converted into a functional hotel with original features such as arches and pillars. The rooftop terrace has views of Bolognas leaning towers. Rooms are modern and spacious. B&B doubles from 94 (hotelsandonato.it) Albergo delle Drapperie This friendly little hotel is on a tiny street busy with bakeries, wine merchants, fishmongers and antique shops. Its in the heart of the city, just off the Piazza Maggiore. The 20 rooms are colourful and restful; the best tucked away on the top floor with exposed beams. Beware the steps to the first-floor reception. B&B doubles from 90 (albergodrapperie.com) Art Hotel Orologio Even closer to Piazza Maggiore, this hotel lives up to its name with eye-catching art and slick public areas with sculptures and mirrors. Some rooms have views of the piazza and the hills beyond the city. Rates can creep over 100, but if you book in advance, the cheapest deals are available. B&B doubles from 94 (art-hotel-orologio.com). Prices can fluctuate. WHERE TO EAT Restaurant Pizzeria Nino Set on quiet street with some tables on a long terrace. Great pizza, grilled beef with rosemary, lasagne, seafood spaghetti and lobster are among main courses. Ristoranteninobologna.it Caffe Gran Bar It can get busy at this popular tapas bar just off Piazza Maggiore. Select tapas from a cabinet at the back of the bar (about 2.50 a go) and the friendly waiters bring them to you: olives, cheeses, hams and pizza slices. A great spot to unwind. 7 Via Massimo dAzeglio Galliera 49 For delicious chocolate, rum, lemon or pistachio ice cream, seek out this much-loved maker of gelato, just north of the centre. One scoop 1.30. Galliera49.it Buca San Petronio Bologna is known as La Grassa - 'the fat one' - for its generous helpings of pasta. Buca San Petronio pictured above In a small shaded courtyard, this jolly restaurant has outside tables which are lovely on a balmy evening. Pasta offerings include lasagna, tortellini with ragu and ravioli with asparagus. 15-20 for two courses. Bucasanpetronio.it WHAT TO SEE AND DO Free entry to the Basilica Wander into San Petronio Basilica and marvel at this fine red-brick church, dedicated to the citys 5th-century bishop, St Petronius. It has pride of place on Piazza Maggiore and was originally planned to be bigger than St Peters in Rome. When Catholic authorities heard of this, however, funds were diverted. Its still pretty massive: 132m long, 60m wide and 45m tall. Climb the leaning tower OK, so this is not free a ticket to ascend Bolognas remarkable Torre degli Asinelli, a tower built for an important family in the 12th century, costs 4.30. Buy tickets at the tourist information centre on Piazza Maggiore, where you can choose a time slot. The 498-step ascent is invigorating (and tough), but what great views: the tower rises 97 metres and leans precariously westwards more than two metres. The setting is fabulous, with the Torre Garisenda almost alongside. Museums galore Masterpiece: Botticini Raffaello's Madonna della Misericordia e donatori can be viewed at Bologna's Pinacoteca Nazionale. A Bologna Welcome card allows entry to all the citys main attractions including the contemporary art gallery and the archaeological museum Bologna Welcome cards allow entry to all the citys main museums and galleries, including the contemporary art gallery, the archaeological museum and Pinacoteca Nazionale (home to one of northern Italys most important collections of fine art). There are more than 50 museums and galleries in all. The card also includes a walking tour (21, bolognawelcome.com). Another version includes a train ride, an ascent of the Torre degli Asinelli and other benefits, and costs 34. They can be purchased at the tourist office on the main square or online. Bag a bargain at the market Head to Piazza VIII Agosto on Saturday to browse dozens of stalls offering cut-price clothes, shoes, and arts and crafts. Its a higgledy-piggledy affair with all sorts of great deals. For more information on antique and vintage markets see bolognawelcome.com. Check out a street stall A ruddy selection: Cherries, strawberries and watermelon are among the healthy offerings in the markets in Bologna The Quadrilatero district just off Piazza Maggiore is full of delightful food stalls and kiosk-like cafes in its tangle of tiny streets. It was here that the craft guilds of the city such as goldsmiths, butchers, fishermen, salaroli (workers who salted meat to preserve it), the furriers, barbers and the painters were all based from medieval times. Go a little further eastwards and you are soon in the university district, which is great for ice creams, cheap pizzas and food stalls selling tapas, salads and pasta with ragu. Bologna is known locally as La Grassa (the fat one) and you soon find out why. Pasta with ragu (not spaghetti bolognese!) is usually about 5-10. Get lost on a ramble Bologna is flat and its a pleasure simply to walk beneath the miles of porticos (25 miles in total and remarkably cool even on a baking day). Explore little neighbourhoods and stop off at a cafe for an 85p espresso or a 1.70 glass of wine or beer. It is learnt that the party has identified eleven parliamentary constituencies on the basis of the result of 2017 assembly election. Ahmedabad: With announcement of party president Mr. Amit Shah contesting from Gandhinagar, replacing party veteran L.K. Advani, all eyes are on Gujarat now. While state unite of the BJP is ready to take advantage of Mr. Shahs nomination from the state, the Congress is re-working on its strategy to counter the move. The Congress has already announced four candidates for Gujarat and is expected to announce names for remaining 22 seats anytime from now. According to senior party leader, the Congress is planning to create the momentum like 2017 assembly election to counter the BJPs nationalism narrative. State party leadership is planning the campaign in the same way. This time, the party is hopeful of Ms Priyanka Gandhis visit to attract women voters. The induction of patidar leader Hardik Patel was a step in that direction only. Hardik factor had helped us in the assembly election. Now he is with the party so we are hoping to get full support from his team-PAAS. We will raise same issues of farmers distress and unemployment. The temple visits will also be a part of the campaign, said a party leader with smile. It is learnt that the party has identified eleven parliamentary constituencies on the basis of the result of 2017 assembly election. Banaskantha, Patan, Mehsana, Sabarkantha, Surendranagar, Junagadh, Amreli and Anand are the eight seats where the party is leading in votes in assembly segments. Compared to 2014 Lok Sabha election, Jamnagar, Bharuch and Porbandar are another three seats where it is trailing the BJP with margin of less than 20000 votes as per assembly results. For example, if Hardik Patel contests from Jamnagar, the Congress can hope to get patidar votes in entire Saurashtra region. In Amreli constituency, the party has five MLAs out of seven assembly segments. Anand seat of central Gujarat has been remained with the party, except in 2014, and this time with the nomination of former state president Mr. Bharat Solanki, it is hoping to get the fortress back. In short, party will focus more on those seats where it has a chance to win. It is not hoping much from urban constituencies where the BJP still dominates. Party leaders believe that the party is in a position to win at least these eight seats and can give tough fight on other three seats, if they are able to create same political atmosphere like they had created in December 2017. We are fighting on all 26 seats including Gandhinagar, where Mr. Amit Shah is contesting, with same spirit. We will get maximum seats from Gujarat this time. State party spokesperson Dr. Manish Doshi said. Q. My husband and I have booked a cruise from Singapore that ends in Shanghai, where we will stay two nights. I am told there is a 144-hour free transit visa in Shanghai, but the cruise line will not confirm this. Can you help? Jean Cotterell, by email China has a 144-hour visa exemption for UK transit passengers arriving or departing by sea or air and then travelling onwards to a third country (not the country from which your ship or flight originated). This exemption covers those arriving in Shanghai, Beijing and Tianjin. China offers 144-hour free transit visas to UK passengers arriving by sea or air. Shanghai city pictured above Before boarding, your cruise ship will request proof of your homeward flight. You will then be required to present this to immigration officials when disembarking in Shanghai. Its a good idea to have to hand a copy of your Shanghai accommodation booking. Visit travelchinaguide.com. Q. We are travelling to Jamaica in May and want to know if it is better to take Jamaican or U.S. dollars. Also, any ideas for things to do in Montego Bay? Karen, by email U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but, off the beaten track, Jamaican dollars are recommended. It is usually better to obtain Jamaican dollars in advance at a bank or your hotel the current exchange rate is 151.39 Jamaican dollars to the pound (postoffice.co.uk). There is plenty to do around Montego Bay, including excursions to Dunns River Falls (a beautiful terraced waterfall) and the Blue Mountains coffee plantations. Q. My husband and I would like to take our four children aged one to seven on their first holiday abroad somewhere sunny. Wed like to fly for less than three hours to a resort with plenty to entertain kids, plus a beach. We are happy to save for next year, so should have a decent budget. Ellen Sheane, by email Something for everyone: Marthinhal Quintal Family Resort, in the Algarve, Portugal, lives up to its name, with childrens clubs, creches, pools, indoor play areas and villas with private pools Marthinhal Quintal Family Resort, in the Algarve in Portugal, lives up to its name, with childrens clubs, creches, pools, indoor play areas and villas with private pools. This is the top tip for children your age from Jane Anderson, editor of Family Traveller magazine (familytraveller.com), but its not cheap: a seven-night self-catering stay starts from 5,840 for your family with Stansted flights and transfers (jet2holidays.com). If you need advice, the Holiday Guru is here to answer your questions and provide tips on how to make the most of your precious time off. Please send questions to holidayplanner@dailymail.co.uk or write to Daily Mail Travel, Northcliffe House, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TT and include your contact details. We will do our best to answer your queries but we cant reply to every enquiry. Please do not send in any original documents. We look forward to hearing from you. There was a lump in my throat as I hauled my suitcase out of the front door. I had just left my cat in the hands of a total stranger and was about to head off for a weekend break in the snowy hills of Switzerland. The stranger was called Angela, and I had found her last-minute on a website dedicated to connecting pet-owners and pet-lovers. Whats more, she was offering her services for free. It seemed like the perfect solution to what was becoming a repetitive headache for my fiance Dan and me. Purr-fect solution: Harriet with pet-sitter Angela and Dewi, the cat who can open the fridge In the past, weve had friends, friends of friends and relatives look after Dewi, our three-year-old Maine coon. Weve even made the 12-hour round trip to Wales to leave him with my parents. There had to be another way. I had been connected with Angela through TrustedHousesitters (trustedhousesitters.com) just ten days before our holiday. The website works like this: you pay an annual 89 fee and then set up your own profile, with information about your pet and your home. You enter the dates you are away and up come dozens of smiling faces belonging to people willing to look after your pet whatever it might be and stay in your home. In return, sitters are given the opportunity to be a resident, rather than a visitor, in a new location for free. The website has thousands of members in more than 130 countries. There are several other companies that offer similar (albeit paid-for) services, including The Animal Angels (animalangels.co.uk). Straightaway, I liked the look of Angela. She appeared friendly and had 62 glowing reviews on the TrustedHousesitters website. Once connected, we spoke on the telephone for half an hour and Skyped to give her a tour of my sisters flat, where she would be staying with Dewi and to give Dewi a virtual introduction to his new best friend. Our nerves were instantly settled by Angelas warm personality and clear love of animals throughout our call, she had a 21-year-old cat sleeping and purring on her lap. SOME OF ANGELA'S TRAVELS Brisbane, Australia; Queenstown, New Zealand; Victoria, Canada; British Columbia, Canada; New York; Snoqualmie, Washington; Portland, Oregon; Los Angeles, California; San Francisco, California; San Diego, California; Barbados; Benalmadena, Spain; Mijas, Spain; Epernay, France. Advertisement Dewi is not the easiest of cats. Shamefully, my instructions/warnings to Angela were as follows: leave all internal doors open, even when in the loo or the shower, or he will moan; feed him daily at 8am and 8pm; leave a chair in front of the fridge as he can open it; be prepared for him to share your bed. It hardly sounded like an appealing weekend. As we were clambering on to the slopes, Angela sent us a message with a picture of Dewi and kept in touch throughout our trip with daily updates, videos and images. We felt totally assured that he was safe and happy. We finally met Angela in person the morning we landed. The house was sparkling clean, with fresh flowers, and it was clear that she and Dewi had bonded. Angelas love of pets has taken her and her husband far and wide. It allows me to explore my three passions: pets, places and people, she says. I did two sits in Barbados, the first with Honey, a golden labrador, who spent all her time in the pool chasing rocks. We stayed in a beautiful ocean view villa in St Jamess and had a vehicle so we could take Honey out exploring the island. Barbados is very expensive and staying in a home away from home is a great affordable option. Taking it easy: Toby the Shih Tzu puts his feet up on a deckchair in Camber Sands, East Sussex Angela adds: In May, Im going back to San Diego to look after a dog we previously looked after in New York in a nine-room apartment on Fifth Avenue that used to be owned by a member the Kennedy family. Theres no guarantee that every sitter will be like Angela, but would we use Trusted Housesitters again? Absolutely. And now that Im a signed up member, we plan to look after someone elses pet during a holiday in Barcelona this summer. It might be a cat but, just as easily, it could be a hamster. Advertisement The lounge at Southend Airport has been ranked the worst out of 21 pay-as-you-go airport lounges in the UK for the second consecutive year. Inspectors from consumer group Which? say they found barely-there facilities at the Skylife Lounge with no runway view, no hot food and no sparkling wine - earning it just one star out of five. The best lounges are jointly ranked as the No1 Lounge at Heathrow's Terminal 3, Heathrow's The House lounge in Terminal 5 and the 1903 lounge in Manchester's T3. The Skylife Lounge at Southend Airport, which has been named the worst UK airport lounge for a second year running by Which? Travel Skylife was criticised for its lack of hot food and its interiors. This is despite the airport being named as the best in Which? Travel's annual airport survey The undercover reviewers said the lounge at Southend Airport had 'stained carpets' that were 'dusted with crumbs,' 'uncomfortable lurid yellow, low-slung sofas' and a 'sad-looking buffet' of 'unripe bananas' and 'pastries cut into halves' in the place of hot food options. The airport itself, however, is rated one of the best in Which? Travel's annual airport survey - leaving the inspectors wondering if its money should have been redirected. Access to the lounge costs nearly 20 when booked in advance or 24 for those paying on the day. The report also found Edinburgh's Aspire lounge lacking - earning just one and a half stars. Which? says it found the Aspire lounge at Edinburgh Airport to be lacking and it earns just one and a half stars The joint third-worst lounge is the Luton Airport Aspire lounge, which reviewers said served eggs that were 'congealed' and 'stale' bread rolls Which? says that while this lounge did include a hot food menu, the inspector described a salad that had 'a past-its-best tang', pasta that 'looked like cat food' and a glass that was 'worryingly sticky'. To make matters worse, the toilet is outside the lounge and halfway across the airport terminal. Joint third worst is the Luton Aspire, which Which? says offered 'congealed eggs' and 'stale bread rolls'. The consumer group added that whether better options are available in the airport itself - voted the UK's worst by passengers for the past three years - will depend on the success of Luton's multi-million-pound refurbishment. The No1 Lounge at Heathrow's Terminal 3, which boasts a cinema, free showers, private sleep pods and hot food options made to order Sharing the accolade for the best UK airport lounge is Manchester's 1903 Lounge in T3. Reviewers noted the 'floor to ceiling runway' view, cheese plates and an 'immaculate' self-service bar Heathrow's The House lounge in Terminal 4, pictured, also receives four stars and comes joint top, but the price on the door is 50 However, Which? found that Aspire, which runs 20 pay-as-you-go airport lounges in the UK, has shown some improvement since it last visited, but the report found that its rival, No1, is still delivering a better experience, according to undercover inspectors. Complimentary sparkling wines and a la carte dishes gave these lounges the edge, helping Heathrow's Terminal 3 No1 lounge to the top. The London airport lounge is described as the best-equipped location Which? inspected. It boasts a cinema, free showers, private sleep pods and hot food options made to order. Coming third in the ranking is the No1 Lounge at Birmingham Airport, pictured. No1 Lounges are ranked the best in the survey THE BEST AND WORST PAY-AS-YOU-GO AIRPORT LOUNGES IN THE UK The best lounges 1. = Heathrow No1 T3 1. = Manchester 1903 T3 1. = Heathrow The House T4 3. = Birmingham No1 3. = Gatwick Clubrooms North and South terminals The worst lounges 1. Southend Skylife Lounge 2. Edinburgh Aspire 3 = Luton Aspire 4 = Heathrow Aspire Terminal 5 5 = Belfast International Causeway Source: Which? Advertisement According to Which?, the only downside is that in common with all No1 lounges, guests are now limited to only one made-to-order dish per person, knocking down what might have been a five-star review to four. Jointly top-ranked Manchester T3 1903 was praised for being dotted with model planes and aviator goggles as well as a pick and mix sweet station. Reviewers noted the 'floor to ceiling runway' view, cheese plates and an 'immaculate' self-service bar that was found to be 'well-stocked'. Made-to-order hot food was available here, too, but limited to just one choice - pork belly on the day Which? visited - earning the lounge another four out of the five-star rating. Heathrow's The House lounge in Terminal 4 also receives four stars but the price on the door is 50. Other highly ranked lounges include the No1 lounge at Birmingham Airport, which was rated third, as well as the Gatwick Clubrooms in both the North and South terminals, which rounded off the top five. Which? also went undercover to review two high-end airline lounges - the British Airways galleries club lounge at Heathrow Terminal 5 and the Singapore Airlines Silverkris at Heathrow Terminal 2. The BA lounge is rated three stars out of five, with food described by Which? inspectors as 'basic canteen fare' of penne and tomato sauce and white rice and chilli. PC and printing facilities, PlayStation and complimentary spa treatments did redeem the lounge somewhat but reviewers claimed it was not the 'nirvana' they were expecting and was comparable to its pay-as-you-go counterparts. The Singapore Airlines lounge, on the other hand, is described as 'a giant step up' from the average airport lounge experience. The cocktail bar, 'fancy layered desserts' and rainfall showers made this lounge 'feel exclusive' and it earned a coveted four and a half stars. The Clubrooms at Gatwick's North Terminal gains four and a half stars out of five from the Which? inspectors The Gatwick Clubrooms in the South Terminal also fares well in the survey, and it rounds off the top five It lost a half point because although the food was of restaurant quality, there was no a la carte menu. Which? Travel editor Rory Boland said: 'Battling through security queues and the maze that has become duty-free can be such an ordeal - it's no wonder that the promise of an oasis of calm in a pay-to-enter lounge is so appealing. 'But with lounges charging up to 50 for what might amount to little more than a seat on a stained sofa and a soggy pastry, passengers might be better off saving their cash to treat themselves once they reach their destination.' A spokesperson for Southend Airport said: 'We always welcome feedback on our facilities and we are always seeking ways to improve the experience for our passengers. 'In the past year, we have worked hard to develop our Skylife lounge and we have seen use by our passengers almost double. Clearly, there is more for us to do, and we look forward to continuing the development of Londons favourite airport.' A spokesman for Aspire said: 'Whilst it is encouraging to be recognised for improvement, we are disappointed by some of the findings of the Which? report. Each of the individual comments will be reviewed, and improvements made where appropriate. Aspire Lounges always welcome feedback, both positive and negative, and use it to evolve our offer to better meet the needs of the modern traveller, no matter what the reason for their journey. 'The vast majority of 28,000 surveyed guests have an extremely positive experience at our lounges, but we are committed to learning from the feedback in the Which? report and making continual improvements. 'In light of this feedback and in keeping with our seasonal adjustments, we are launching a new hot food menu for Summer 2019, to complement our soups, snacks and treats, which will include dishes such as vegan friendly three bean chili with nacho chips, through to chicken and chorizo pasta. 'We are committed to improving the stay of each of our guests and have commenced work on a brand-new lounge facility at Edinburgh, which will bring new design elements and toilets within the lounge to guests departing from the airport. 'It is worth highlighting that there are many great benefits to using an Aspire Lounge in addition to the complimentary foods that we offer, including Free WiFi, a place to work, complimentary drinks, newspapers and above all, a relaxing environment and comfortable seat, which are not always available in the main terminal.' Oscar-winning actress Brie Larson is making her directorial debut with the Netflix film Unicorn Store - and a new trailer for the project dropped Friday. Brie, 29, stars as a woman called Kit who is expelled from art school and plants herself on the couch for days, until a surprise comes along to cheer her up. Her childhood dream of having a pet unicorn looks like it may come true courtesy of a salesman played by Brie's Captain Marvel co-star Samuel L. Jackson. At the helm: Oscar-winning actress Brie Larson is making her directorial debut with the Netflix film Unicorn Store - and a new trailer for the project dropped Friday While lounging about on her sofa in a fog of melancholy, she gets a visit from her parents, played by Joan Cusack and Bradley Whitford. They are joined by Kevin, apparently an old friend of Kit's played by Karan Soni, who asks his pal: 'So what's your plan now that you've been kicked out of school?' Kit has drifted into an unfulfilling job as an office temporary, where one of her colleagues asks wanly: 'You don't wanna be a temp forever, do you?' Dealing with it: Brie, 29, stars as a woman called Kit who is expelled from art school and plants herself on the couch for days, until a surprise comes along to cheer her up Star power: Her childhood dream of having a pet unicorn looks like it may come true courtesy of a salesman played by Brie's Captain Marvel co-star Samuel L. Jackson Loved ones: While lounging about on her sofa in a fog of melancholy, she gets a visit from her parents, played by Joan Cusack and Bradley Whitford Cheery: They are joined by Kevin, apparently an old friend of Kit's played by Karan Soni, who asks his pal: 'So what's your plan now that you've been kicked out of school?' Stagnant: Kit has drifted into an unfulfilling job as an office temporary, where one of her colleagues asks wanly: 'You don't wanna be a temp forever, do you?' A mysterious letter summons her to a massive and well-appointed venue marked out as: 'The Store' by a neon pink sign over the entrance. Samuel's salesman character is waiting for her inside, modeling a bubblegum pink suit and glittering silver threads wrapped up in his hair. 'We sell what you need,' sells The Salesman, before projecting a video of a unicorn - a pet Kit describes as 'the only thing i ever wanted.' Arriving: A mysterious letter summons her to a massive and well-appointed venue marked out as: 'The Store' by a neon pink sign over the entrance Splashy: Samuel's salesman character is waiting for her inside, modeling a bubblegum pink suit and glittering silver threads wrapped up in his hair The dream: 'We sell what you need,' sells The Salesman, before projecting a video of a unicorn - a pet Kit describes as 'the only thing i ever wanted' 'If I have one brought here, I have to know that you're for real,' says The Salesman, prompting Kit to put together 'a home worthy of a unicorn.' She enlists the help of a gentleman called Virgil, played by Mamoudou Athie, whom she brings to her basement and tells: 'I'm thinking something like a stable.' 'I don't think a pony wants to live in your basement,' says Virgil, to which Kit looks around at her surroundings and says with resignation: 'That's a good point.' Can't be too careful: 'If I have one brought here, I have to know that you're for real,' says The Salesman, prompting Kit to put together 'a home worthy of a unicorn' Assistance: She enlists the help of a gentleman called Virgil, played by Mamoudou Athie, whom she brings to her basement and tells: 'I'm thinking something like a stable' Common sense: 'I don't think a pony wants to live in your basement,' says Virgil, to which Kit looks around at her surroundings and says with resignation: 'That's a good point' Her parents are of course perplexed at her behavior, and at one point her mother yells at her: 'Should we just get you a puppy?' 'I know that I'm just a disappointment. You're always like: "Why don't you have a boyfriend?" or: "Why aren't you just more like Kevin?"' Kit snaps back. During a tearful confab, Kit's mother tells her: 'The most grown-up thing you can do is fail at things you really care about,' and they fall into each other's arms. 'I know that I'm just a disappointment': 'You're always like: "Why don't you have a boyfriend?" or: "Why aren't you just more like Kevin?"' Kit complains to her parents So sweet: During a tearful confab, Kit's mother tells her: 'The most grown-up thing you can do is fail at things you really care about,' and they fall into each other's arms 'Everybody needs some magic in their lives, even if they're all grown up,' Kit says, giving the movie its tagline at the end of the trailer. In one scene, Kit and Virgil are eating at a diner when he asks: 'Tell me, where does this unicorn come from?' and she says matter-of-factly: 'Oh, the unicorn store.' The movie has had a long road to release - it had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival two years ago, but will bow on Netflix this April 5. Mystical: 'Everybody needs some magic in their lives, even if they're all grown up,' Kit says, giving the movie its tagline at the end of the trailer Nothing to it: In one scene, Kit and Virgil are eating at a diner when he asks: 'Tell me, where does this unicorn come from?' and she says matter-of-factly: 'Oh, the unicorn store' Renowned Australian artist Vincent Fantauzzo has a surprisingly refreshing perspective on the crippling dyslexia he has suffered since he was a child. On Saturday Vincent, 42, who married actress Asher Keddie in 2014, credited the couple's boys Luca, nine, and Valentino, four, with changing his perspective. He told The Weekend Australian Magazine that he no longer fears they will inherit the condition, saying: 'Dyslexia is a gift... I've seen the other side and I know what kids with dyslexia can be and I reckon I'd be the best parent to guide them through it, so I'm not worried,' he said. 'Every day is an explosion of joy with them around': Asher Keddie's portrait artist husband Vincent Fantauzzo spoke candidly about the couple's children on Saturday, and said that his profound dyslexia is 'a gift'. Vincent is pictured with Asher He added: 'The boys have opened my eyes and reminded me kids should live with a lightness, not worry. Every day is an explosion of joy with them around.' Life has certainly not been easy for the artist, or even for those around him, as chronic forgetfulness is one of the hallmarks of his condition. So much so that, Asher, 44, has had to send Vincent detailed rundowns of his and their children's commitments each day while she is away filming in South Africa. Embracing it: Vincent told The Weekend Australian magazine that he no longer fears they will inherit the condition. Pictured left is Valentino, four, and right, Luca, nine. He has Luca from a previous relationship But despite their difficulties, the couple are able to juggle busy careers and family life. Speaking to Stellar Magazine in February, Vincent praised Asher and said the loved-up pair 'both know their strengths' in the relationship. 'I appreciate the way she always looks out for me,' Vincent said of his wife, whom he met in 2012, after being introduced by celebrity chef Matt Moran, 49. A doting father: Vincent added: 'The boys have opened my eyes and reminded me kids should live with a lightness, not worry. Every day is an explosion of joy with them around' 'She never forgets anything. She is extremely organised while I'm the opposite... I never document or plan anything, I fly by the seat of my pants most of the time,' Vincent added. The artist described their home life as 'beautiful chaos' and the pair as 'best friends', confessing that Asher takes care of organising the kids for school. '[She knows] all that kind of stuff. If it were left up to me, they would probably be turning up on the wrong day in the wrong clothes,' he said. The couple secretly married in 2014 at Fiji's exclusive Turtle Island, and only had one guest at their wedding: Vincent's son, Luca. Actor John Stamos is sometimes found touring with The Beach Boys, including a show last night in Dallas where he had an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction. Stamos, 55, took to Twitter to reveal photos from on stage during the Dallas performance, where he had ripped his Tom Ford pants somehow. The actor/musician also took the opportunity to continue his humorous bromance/prank war with Nick Jonas. Wardrobe malfunction: John Stamos suffers a wardrobe malfunction with his pants ripping while on stage with The Beach Boys in Dallas 'First time @TomFord has ever let me down,' Stamos begn. 'Ripped pants five minutes in to @TheBeachBoys show in Dallas. The actor went on to joke that, 'I think that Jonas kid is behind this! (or my butt is getting bigger --). The unfortunate incident is also a rather hilarious tie-in, of sorts, to his fictional band on Full House, dubbed Jesse and the Rippers. Rippers: 'First time @TomFord has ever let me down,' Stamos begn. 'Ripped pants five minutes in to @TheBeachBoys show in Dallas Stamos seemed to be referencing his fictional band with the hashtag #Rippers along with the hashtag for Beach Boys fans, #BeachBums. Nick Jonas has not yet responded to the accusation that he somehow made Stamos rip his pants on stage, but it certainly would be an interesting escalation in their strange relationship. Just last week, Stamos shared a photo on Instagram where he was seemingly getting Nick Jonas' face tattooed on his forearm, with the hashtag #jobrosforlife Ripped pants: Stamos seemed to be referencing his fictional band with the hashtag #Rippers along with the hashtag for Beach Boys fans, #BeachBums 'Dangerous stuff': The star took to Instagram ahead of his show to joke about his concert prep Has to get it right: The handsome star was blow drying his hair for the camera This mutual appreciation between Stamos and Jonas began last October, when Stamos was spotted wearing a Jonas Brothers World Tour t-shirt from 2009 to the AMAs. Nick responded in February, when he was spotted out wearing a shirt featuring a photo of Stamos wearing their Jonas Brothers tour shirt. Earlier this month, Stamos took things up another notch by sharing a photo on Twitter where he was resting his head on a pillow with the image of Jonas wearing the Stamos shirt where Stamos was pictured wearing the Jonas shirt. Another notch: Earlier this month, Stamos took things up another notch by sharing a photo on Twitter where he was resting his head on a pillow with the image of Jonas wearing the Stamos shirt where Stamos was pictured wearing the Jonas shirt Jonas prank: Then Jonas took things up yet another notch, posting a photo of him sleeping soundly under a blanket with Stamos' picture of him with the Jonas pillow Then Jonas took things up yet another notch, posting a photo of him sleeping soundly under a blanket with Stamos' picture of him with the Jonas pillow. 'Ill sleep well tonight knowing #sucker is number 1!' Jonas said, referring to his new Jonas Brothers song Sucker that was topped the singles charts. Stamos will also be performing with The Beach Boys on Friday night, during their show in Midland, Texas, which Stamos revealed on his Instagram story. Nick's joke: Nick responded in February, when he was spotted out wearing a shirt featuring a photo of Stamos wearing their Jonas Brothers tour shirt Miley Cyrus was seen enjoying a dog-walk in the Studio City area of Los Angeles on Friday, accompanied by her mother Tish Cyrus. The 26-year-old pop act zipped herself into a grey hoodie and swept her signature blonde hair into a high ponytail, playing up her gams in black leggings. Meanwhile, her 51-year-old mother wore a spoof of an Adidas sweater that featured a marijuana leaf in place of the brand's iconic trefoil logo. Family time: Miley Cyrus was seen enjoying a dog-walk in the Studio City area of Los Angeles on Friday, accompanied by her mother Tish Cyrus The Tennessee-born duo were joined on their sunlit stroll that day by a male pal who cut a splashy figure in a bright orange jacket and tie-dye top. Tish has been married since 1993 to Miley's father and Hannah Montana co-star Billy Ray Cyrus, he of Achy Breaky Heart one-hit-wonder fame. In addition to Miley, Tish and Billy Ray share four other children - daughters Brandi, 31, and Noah, 19, and sons Trace, 30, and Braison, 24. Hoofing it: The 26-year-old pop act zipped herself into a grey hoodie and swept her signature blonde hair into a high ponytail, playing up her gams in black leggings The marriage has not been without its share of hiccups, including a divorce filing in 2010 and another in 2013, but is intact at the time of writing. Miley and her on-off fiance Liam Hemsworth, whom she met co-starring in the 2010 Nicholas Sparks adaptation The Last Song, finally married this past December. They tied the knot in Nashville two days before Christmas and announced their marriage publicly only after the wedding was over. On the move: The Tennessee-born duo were joined on their sunlit stroll that day by a male pal who cut a splashy figure in a bright orange jacket and tie-dye top Miley has recently treated her Instagram following to a string of sizzling snaps, modeling a Dior bikini and festooning herself with jewelry. In one of them, she stood in a swimming pool and poured a cup of water over herself, captioning: 'Drenching myself in @champagnepapi's tears'. The Instagram handle she tagged in that post belongs to Drake, and the upload led to online theories that he and Miley might be working on new music together. She may be a superstar host, actress and dancer, but at the end of the day, she's just a regular mom. And on Friday, Jenna Dewan stepped out with daughter Everly Tatum to run errands in Studio City, California. Despite her low-key outing, The Resident star looked stylish while doing so. Beautiful: On Friday, Jenna Dewan, 38, looked stylish as she ran errands in Studio City Jenna combined different textures for ensemble. The star, 38, layered a silk cami underneath an olive green, military style jacket. The former World of Dance host tucked in her cream blouse with a pair of trendy, cut-off jeans and brown wedges. Jenna accessorized with layered necklaces, multiple earrings and a maroon suede purse. Stylish: Jenna combined different textures for ensemble. The star layered a silk cami underneath an olive green, military style jacket The switch: The former World of Dance host tucked in her cream blouse with a pair of trendy, cut-off jeans and brown wedges. She later changed into a pair of flat sneakers Not seen with Jenna was boyfriend Steve Kazee, 43. The couple have been dating last year. 'She's very happy,' a source recently revealed to People. 'Jenna thinks he's great with her daughter.' The same source noted that the World of Dance host is in awe of 'how amazing her relationship with Steve is.' Cute: Everly, five, was sweetly dressed in a light pink dress and bubblegum-colored leggings Her love: Not seen with Jenna was boyfriend Steve Kazee, 43. They are seen in LA last Saturday The couple spent both her birthday and Valentine's Day side-by-side as well. Jenna's happier times come after she filed for divorce from ex-husband Channing Tatum in October. The duo announced their plans to split after nine years together through an Instagram post shared in April. Strictly Come Dancing pro Giovanni Pernice has taken a playful swipe at judges Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli, as he insists men should 'grown old naturally.' The Italian dancer, 28, told The Sun that he doesn't believe in any of the anti-ageing techniques undertaken by his co-stars, such as Botox injections and dying their hair. It comes as Giovanni also revealed he's planning on moving to England with girlfriend Ashley Roberts, as the pair are currently juggling travel between Italy and the United States. Savage: Strictly Come Dancing pro Giovanni Pernice has taken a playful swipe at judges Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli, as he insists men should 'grown old naturally' Giovanni said: 'I understand why women want to do it. I get that they will want to put a bit of Botox in. It makes sense for the ladies, but for me, as an Italian boy, it's different. 'I prefer for men especially to let it go naturally. Everybody has to get old. I don't need to dye my hair. My dad is a good looking guy. He's almost 60 and has grey hair.' Craig, 54, has spoken openly in the past about his use of plastic surgery, and admitted in 2016: 'Yes 'I've had my nose done.' Transformed: In 2016, Craig, 53, admitted he underwent a nose job, but has kept mum on whether he's ever had Botox In shape: Meanwhile Bruno, 63, dyes his hair to maintain his youthful appearance, and has also said he wouldn't rule out Botox The famously cutthroat dance expert has kept mum on whether he has ever used Botox. Meanwhile Bruno, 63, dyes his hair, and hasn't ruled out using Botox to roll back the years, telling Now: 'If I found a brilliant surgeon who could do it without making me look ridiculous, I probably would, if and when the time comes. But my face has to be mobile for my job.' This comes just weeks after it was confirmed Giovanni would be among the pros returning to Strictly later this year, his fifth year on the show after making it to the final last year with Steps' Faye Tozer. Dynamic: This comes just weeks after it was confirmed Giovanni would be returning to Strictly later this year, his fifth year on the show after making it to the final in 2018 with Faye Tozer It was during last series that Giovanni found love with Pussycat Doll Ashley Roberts, who also made the final with pro Pasha Kovalev. Speaking about their blossoming romance, which was only confirmed after the series wrapped, Giovanni admitted they've already started plans to move in together. He said: 'It's going amazing. I'm hoping to take her home to Italy to meet my parents soon, and I'll go to America to meet her family. We'll be living in England together hopefully. We're happy.' She recently caused quite the stir when she arrived at a Louis Vuitton store in Paris for a fitting. And Bella Hadid was spotted enjoying a casual stroll in the French capital on Friday night following Paris Fashion Week. The 22-year-old fashion icon dressed for the winter weather as she stepped out in a hooded khaki padded jacket and straight cut blue jeans. Out and about: Bella Hadid was spotted enjoying a casual stroll in the French capital on Friday night following Paris Fashion Week Sweeping back her brunette tresses into a tight ponytail, the 2016 Model of the Year showcased her sun-kissed complexion as she walked through the Parisian streets and greeted fans. The model looked as radiant as ever as she displayed her dramatic cat eye makeup and highlighted her cheekbones with a touch of rouge. She completed her look with a black Dior handbag underneath her arms as decided to step out into streets and embrace the chilly weather. Taking a stroll: The fashion icon wore a khaki coloured puffer jacket and blue jeans as she hit the streets Bella, who once called Paris her 'second home' in an Instagram post, is in city of love to work on a new campaign with Dior. Her appearance follows the much anticipated Paris Fashion week which began on February 25 and culminated on March 5. The fashionista, who has been a face for Dior Makeup since 2017, has featured in a number of videos titled 'Dior Makeup with Bella Hadid' for the international beauty chain. Smile: The young model smiled for the camera's and greeted fans as she took a walk through the French capital In February 2017 the social media icon was also signed on to be the global ambassador for the luxury watch brand Tag Heuer. The famous model and her sister of Gigi Hadid recently caught the attention of literature lovers across the globe after a New York Post article spotted the famous models make books 'the hot new accessory of 2019' while out and about in public. During the latest fashion trend, Bella was spotted carrying The Outsider by Stephen King while sister Gigi held onto The Stranger by Albert Camus. Page-turners! The famous model recently caught the attention of literature lovers across the globe after she was spotted carrying The Outsider by Stephen King Sources alleged that Sathak had directly sent about Rs 50 crore funds to Naik, which the preacher illegally routed and laundered. New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday arrested Abdul Kadir Najmudin Sathak, a trusted aide of controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, from Mumbai in connection with a money laundering case against Naik and others. Sources said Sathak, a jeweller, has been arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering (PMLA) for his role in actively assisting Naik and aiding him in money laundering by transferring funds of dubious origin from the UAE to facilitate production and broadcasting incriminating videos for spreading communal hatred and radicalisation of a particular community. The agency will also soon file a fresh chargesheet in this case based on fresh evidence, they added. Sources alleged that Sathak had directly sent about Rs 50 crore funds to Naik, which the preacher illegally routed and laundered. Sathak was also the director of Global Broadcasting Corporation FZE LLC that owned Naiks Peace TV channel. He will be produced before a special PMLA court in Mumbai. They said the company, Global Broadcasting, was controlled by Naik, who is stated to be in Malaysia at present, through Sathak, who was his trusted aide. An amount of Rs 79 crore was received from GBC to Ms Harmony Media Pvt Ltd. But for these monies, it would not have been possible to produce these controversial speeches of Naik and reach wider audiences through Peace TV, the ED alleged. It claimed that the source of funds remitted by GBC to Harmony Media is suspicious as there were no advertisements run on this channel and Sathak had not submitted any details in this context. Naik has been under investigation since 2016, when the Centre banned his Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) for five years. Indian security agencies have been monitoring him ever since allegations surfaced that he had inspired one of the militants involved in the Dhaka restaurant attack on July 1, 2016, which left 22 people dead. Naik, wanted in India for terror-related activities and hate speech, reportedly left the country in 2016 and subsequently moved to largely Muslim populated Malaysia, where he was granted permanent residency. The ED had registered a criminal case against Naik and others in December, 2016 after taking cognisance of a National Investigation Agency (NIA) complaint filed under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). Kiwi model Nikki Phillips welcomed her second son, Luca Fox, on Tuesday. And the new mother-of-two can't stop gushing about her adorable bundle of joy. Taking to Instagram on Saturday, the 36-year-old posted a sweet black and white photo of herself two sons Jett, one, and new arrival, Luca Fox. 'Heart exploding!' Nikki Phillips (pictured) shared an adorable photo with her two sons Jett, one, (right) and newborn Luca Fox (left) just days after giving birth The photo showed the two siblings sitting on their mother's lap with little Luca fast asleep while Nikki looking affectionately down at the pair. 'Heart Exploding,' she wrote, along with a love heart emoji, adding: 'My Boys. Jett and Luca.' In the image, the pair wear long sleeve tops that read, 'big brother' and 'little brother.' The cute post comes after Nikki announced the happy news that she gave birth via Instagram on Friday, sharing a photo of the sleeping newborn wrapped up in a colourful baby blanket. Baby joy! Nikki welcomed her second son, Luca Fox, on Tuesday 'I'm so lucky, so grateful and so in love,' Nikki wrote in the caption. She added: 'Welcome to this big ole world little man. You make our family complete. Luca Fox Phillips Rumble. Born 19/03/19.' 'What can I say? I'm so lucky, so grateful and so in love #MyBoys #BabyNumberTwo #blessed.' How sweet! Nikki eldest son Jett looked excited to meet his younger brother for the first time 'About ready to pop!' On Monday, just a day before giving birth, Nikki shared the last photo of her baby bump to Instagram Nikki later shared another photo of her eldest son Jett, one, who held a balloon and wore a T-shirt featuring the words 'big brother'. On Monday, just a day before giving birth, Nikki shared the last photo of her baby bump to Instagram. 'About ready to pop. Don't think this tummy can grow anymore!' she captioned the post. Nikki shares her two sons with her husband, 37-year-old musician Dane Rumble. She turned 43 today, and her look-alike daughter was there to wish her a happy birthday. Reese Witherspoon's 19-year-old daughter Ava Phillippe posted a cute photo of the mother-daughter duo amid a sunny beach getaway. 'Happy happy birthday to my glowingly gorgeous mama,' she captioned the sweet snap. Look-alikes: Reese Witherspoon's 19-year-old daughter Ava Phillippe posted a cute photo of the mother-daughter duo amid a sunny beach getaway for her mom's 43rd birthday Reese and her nearly identical daughter were pictured on the beach during a picturesquely golden dusk. The two blonde beauties were dressed in matching white off the shoulder tops. Reese's outfit also added some delicate blue stripes. Ava also wrote, 'You are such a generous, conscientious, and passionately kind person, and I am so blessed to bear witness to your light and love each and every day! love you.' Birthday fun: The Cruel Intentions star posted her own birthday photo, an elegant image of a pier with lilac painted poles from her seaside getaway The Cruel Intentions star posted her own birthday photo, an elegant image of a pier with lilac painted poles. 'On the eve of my birthday, Im reflecting on this past year. How many amazing people I met, the great fun I have had at work, friends I truly cherish, the people I have lost, the joys that definitely outweigh the sadnesses, and my loving family always at the center of everything,' she wrote. 'I always remember that saying, 'Dont look back, youre not going that way,' but I want to look back a minute before I go forward again and say thank you to everyone who follows me here, everyone who came to see me speak this year, everyone who took time to say hi or say something positive, everyone who showed me their heart and their kindness. I am so lucky to walk through this world with you all,' she concluded. Beach vacation: The Big Little Lies actress also posted an impressionistic video of herself walking through the surf, captioned 'Good Morning' Up close and personal: In a second video, she and her children spotted a washed up sea star and tried to pick up the aquatic oddity Birthday fun: On March 9, life imitated art when Reese Witherspoon dressed up as a late-'70s clubber for a Saturday Night Fever-themed disco party with her husband Jim Toth, 49, and son Tennessee, six The Big Little Lies actress also posted an impressionistic video of herself walking through the surf, captioned 'Good Morning.' In a second video, she and her children spotted a washed up sea star and tried to pick up the aquatic oddity. She didn't specify where her family was visiting for her special day. In addition to Ava, Reese shares a 15-year-old son, Deacon, with her ex-husband, Ryan Phillippe, 44. The two were married from 1999-2007. In 2011, she married talent agent Jim Toth, 49. They share a six-year-old son, Tennessee. Musical talent: Earlier on Friday, Reese's longtime friend Jennifer Garner, 46, posted a video of herself playing a saxophone and dressed up in a marching band uniform as a birthday tribute Blast from the past: 'Many moons ago, my high school marching band played this song for homecoming. Today I play it for my boo, @reesewitherspoon. We have a groovy kind of love. Happy birthday, Lady. #bandgeeksarethebestgeeks #havethebestday,' she wrote Earlier on Friday, Reese's longtime friend Jennifer Garner, 46, posted a video of herself playing a saxophone and dressed up in a marching band uniform as a birthday tribute. 'Many moons ago, my high school marching band played this song for homecoming. Today I play it for my boo, @reesewitherspoon. We have a groovy kind of love. Happy birthday, Lady. #bandgeeksarethebestgeeks #havethebestday,' she wrote. Jennifer played a shaky but admirable rendition of Phil Collins' 1988, A Groovy Kind Of Love, first performed by The Mindbenders in 1965. Last week, Reese laughed off a cover story in OK! magazine suggesting she and the Alias star were both pregnant. Not buying it: Last week, Reese laughed off a cover story in OK! magazine suggesting she and the Alias star were both pregnant; pictured in 2006 Both she and her husband are worth millions, and are doing what they can to give back. And on Friday, Kim Kardashian announced she was selling shoes from her husband Kanye West's footwear line through pop-up lemonade stands across the country. The star took to Instagram and Twitter to share the news. Helping out: On Friday, Kim Kardashian, 38, announced pop-up lemonade stands across the country, filled with shoes from husband Kanye West's line Kim said that both Kanye and Adidas, the company behind his shoes, were joining forces to stock lemonade stands with an unreleased shoes from his line. 'All proceeds made via the stands will be donated directly to the national alliance on mental illness (nami.org), the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of americans affected by mental illness,' she said. As was outlined in a press release, stand locations include: 'Indianapolis, IN; Missouri, TX; Waterloo, IA; Minneapolis, MN; Alton, IL; West Chester, OH; Belle Fourche, SD; Cedar Rapids, IA.' Kind effort: They would be donating proceeds of his latest unreleased shoe to the National Alliance on Mental Illness Ready to work: Kanye was dressed casually in a gray T-shirt, black joggers and sneakers Working hard: Penelope, six, and North, five, helped stacked boxes The star then shared snaps of families all over the U.S. participating in the lemonade sale. Kim then shared videos of her own family preparing for their lemonade stand. Eldest daughter North, five, and niece Penelope, six, were sweetly painting a prop for the family's stand. Works of art: Earlier, the girls helped paint what looked to be trash cans Keeping them in the look: Kim shared this post on social media to alert her fans of what was going on Later, the girls, along with Kanye, helped stacked boxes of shoes for sale in Hidden Hills. This won't be the first time Kim has helped do her part for charity. The reality star previously met with President Donald Trump in hopes for prison reform. She recently offered to pay for five year's worth of rent for former prisoner, Matthew Charles. Skate break: Kanye and the girls made time for a little fun in the midst of their hard work '700 V2 Boost': Kanye stood by a sign that was advertising his shoe Peace and love! Kim flashed a peace sign as she took a family photo with the children and her sister Khloe A step in the right direction: The famous family were in good spirits after doing good They have apparently enjoyed a holiday fling while filming TOWIE in Thailand. But Chloe Sims broke down in tears during a conversation with her close pal Diags when she learned that not everyone is in favour of her shock romance with newly-single Dan Edgar, following his split from Amber Turner. In scenes set to air on Sunday, the reality star, 36, asks her friend for his opinion on the developing romance between the two pals, but the conversation quickly becomes tearful. Emotional: Chloe Sims broke down in tears during a conversation with her close pal Diags when she learned that not everyone is in favour of her shock romance with newly-single Dan Edgar Although it is yet to be revealed why her friends don't approve of her fling, it is likely because they are also friends with Dan's ex Amber, who is thought to be seething over the news that Chloe and Dan have hooked up. Chloe and Dan have been friends for years, but the pair have recently developed 'strong feelings' for one another. The reality stars are said to be 'scared' to take things further for fear of ruining their friendship and making things awkward within the group. Elsewhere, Dan seeks advice from Georgia Kousoulou on his developing feelings for Chloe, which seems an unlikely move for Dan who previously kept tight-lipped on his feelings for Amber during their on/off relationship. What do you think? In scenes set to air on Sunday, the reality star, 36, asks her friend for his opinion on the developing romance between the two pals, but the conversation quickly becomes tearful Awkward: Although it is yet to be revealed why her friends don't approve of her fling, it is likely because they are also friends with Dan's ex Amber, who is thought to be seething over the news that Chloe and Dan have hooked up Dan and Chloe are set to come face-to-face later in the episode where it will be decided whether they plan to end their relationship or take it to the next level. In last week's episode Shelby Tribble came to blows with her former fling Sam Mucklow after she heard he planned to make moves on Chloe's sister Demi hours after they slept together. The showdown came after Shelby, 26, confronted Sam, 23, for trying to crack on with Chloe Sims' younger sister Demi, just one day after he slept with her. Shelby decided to give Sam a piece of her mind at the beach party, with the chat soon escalating with Shelby calling him 'disrespectful' for mugging her off. Agony aunt: Elsewhere, Dan seeks advice from Georgia Kousoulou on his developing feelings for Chloe, which seems an unlikely move for Dan who previously kept tight-lipped on his feelings for Amber during their on/off relationship To be, or not to be: Dan and Chloe are set to come face-to-face later in the episode where it will be decided whether they plan to end their relationship or take it to the next level She ranted: 'I trusted you and I felt safe with you as a friend, that's why we took things to the next level. 'You made me feel like a cheap f***ing s**g after hearing you say you are cracking on with Demi and going to treat her like a lady, what does that make me?' With that, the furious brunette beauty threw a drink in Sam's face, with him then retaliating, shouting: 'You are a s**g', while Shelby stormed off. Debrief: Following the row Shelby and Clelia debriefed on the incident with pals Chloe Meadows and Courtney Green, as Clelia reveals how it has impacted her friendship with Sam Muggy: Shelby decided to give Sam a piece of her mind at the beach party, with the chat soon escalating with Shelby calling him 'disrespectful' for mugging her off Following the row Shelby and Clelia will debrief on the incident with pals Chloe Meadows and Courtney Green, as Clelia reveals how it has impacted her friendship with Sam. However his spat with Shelby didn't appear to deter Sam from pursuing Demi, as scenes show the pair growing ever closer since he admitted he fancied her. The two spend time flirting up a storm, prompting Georgia and her boyfriend Tommy Mallet to question the nature of their relationship. The drama continues in The Only Way Is Essex, on Sunday 24th March at 9pm on ITVBe. Days ago she marveled at the falling hailstones in chilly Calabasas. But things were heating up for Kim Kardashian on Friday, as the 38-year-old reality TV star continued to post behind-the-scenes shots from the forthcoming Carolina Lemke eyewear collection. In the series of images, the socialite puckered up for the camera after stripping down to just her black underwear for the steamy photo shoot. On Sight: On Friday Kim Kardashian was seen modelling her forthcoming Carolina Lemke eyewear collection in a series of behind the scenes shots posted to Instagram The Keeping Up With The Kardashians mainstay modeled her own retro-inspired shield sunglasses for the German eyewear designer. She was flanked by topless mannequins, all wearing the same shades as the occasional actress. Kim flashed plenty of her abundant cleavage as she pouted for the photo shoot. Her 90s influenced range is set to go on sale on April 2. Future's so bright: The Keeping Up With The Kardashians mainstay modeled her own retro-inspired shield sunglasses for the German eyewear designer Coming soon: Her 90s influenced range is set to go on sale on April 2 It may have been the first day of spring, but Los Angeles still experienced some unusual weather. Kim was among one of the many Californians marveling at the odd, wintry elements in her hometown of Calabasas. The star posted a video of what she believed to be snow falling in her backyard, when in reality it was just hail. Forces of nature: Kim could not believe her eyes as she watched the hail pelt her backyard on Wednesday Kim could not believe her eyes as the hail pelted furiously throughout her backyard, covering her furniture. 'Okay guys, it is snowing in Calabasas. Can someone please cover my outdoor furniture?' she said. 'OMG, do you guys see that?' she continued. 'Snowing in Calabasas!' It didn't take long for Kim to realize what she was in fact seeing was actually hail. 'OMG, do you guys see that?' The mom of three was astonished to see the odd weather Save the furniture! Kim watched in horror as the hail fell upon her outdoor couch Let it snow: Kardashian initially mistook the hail for snow She posted another video of the unusual spring weather while identifying the weather for what it is. 'You guys, you don't even know. The hail... in Calabasas, my backyard.' It was another early day for Kim, who woke up bright and early Wednesday to squeeze in another workout. And the reality star had words of inspiration for her fans, as she confessed she had been struggling to find motivation every morning lately. In a photo of a stair climber, she admitted: 'As I finish my morning workout, I'm thinking about how this week I have been tired and not as motivated. BUT consistency wins and all of the early mornings in the gym will pay off. Everything counts. Motivation doesn't build muscle. Dedication does.' Work it! It was another early day for Kardashian, who woke up bright and early Wednesday to squeeze in another workout (pictured December 2018) She previously led the star-studded megahit Crazy Rich Asians. Now Constance Wu is shooting her next high wattage follow-up, Hustlers, in New York. The 37-year-old actress was seen on set bundled up against the cold on Friday as she began filming scenes for the upcoming heist film. In character: Constance Wu, 37, was seen on set in New York on Friday for the first day of filming the true crime heist film Hustlers The 5ft4in Fresh Off The Boat star was dressed in ripped black leggings and comfy gray knit boots. She had on a fur-trim coat over a purple top and carried a black and white graphic handbag. Her hair featured a set of severe bangs with some red-dyed streaks, and she had a pair of fake eyelashes pasted on for the film role. Hustlers is about a group of 'former strip club employees who band together to turn the tables on their Wall Street clients', according to Collider. Chilly day: The 5ft4in Fresh Off The Boat star was dressed in ripped black leggings and comfy gray knit boots with a fur-trim coat Constance stars opposite a star-studded group of actresses in the true crime film. In addition to her co-star, Jennifer Lopez, it was announced on Tuesday that Riverdale's Lili Reinhart, Julia Styles, Keke Palmer and rapper Cardi B would be joining the film. Cardi B famously worked as a stripper briefly before launching to rap stardom. The film is written and directed by Lorene Scafaria, who wrote Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist from 2008 and wrote and directed 2012's Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World. Hustlers is based on a New York Magazine article about the real-life strippers who fancied themselves as modern-day Robin Hoods. True crime story: Hustlers is about a group of 'former strip club employees who band together to turn the tables on their Wall Street clients', according to Collider What a difference! Constance Wu showing off her usual glamour at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party; pictured February 24 Though she's about to start out on another major film project, Constance is still a fixture on the ABC comedy Fresh Off The Boat, based on author and Chef Eddie Huang's memoir of the same name about his life as the son of Taiwanese immigrants living in Washington, D.C. She stars as Jessica Huang, Eddie's no nonsense Republican mother. The series, which is currently airing its fifth season, celebrated hitting the coveted 100 episode mark in late February. Constance was joined by her co-stars in Los Angeles as they partied with a special Fresh Off The Boat-themed cake. Major milestone: Constance Wu, Randall Park (M) and Hudson Yang celebrate Fresh Off The Boat's 100th episode; pictured February 27 She's set to star in Quentin Tarantino's high-profile period crime film Once Upon A Time In Hollywood. But Dakota Fanning was on the other side of the country on Friday when she was spotted out and about in New York City. The 25-year-old actress was out in a sporty outfit and covered up against the cold on the particularly windy day. Cold shock: She's set to star in Quentin Tarantino's high-profile period crime film Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, but Dakota Fanning, 25, was on the other side of the country on Friday when she was spotted out and about in New York City The 5ft4in American Pastoral star had a puffy white down jacket on and a thick New York Yankees fanny pack with a floral pattern perfect for spring. She looked like she just came from a workout thanks to her multi-shade gray leggings and baby blue trainers. Her long golden hair whipped back and forth in the wind, partially obscuring her Gentle Monster X Alexander Wang CEO sunglasses. Dakota picked up some Mediterranean takeout from CAVA during her city outing. Bundled up: The 5ft4in American Pastoral star had a puffy white down jacket on and a thick New York Yankees fanny pack with a floral pattern perfect for spring Earlier in March, the Man On Fire star showed off some warm weather snaps from a bachelorette party in Miami, a striking contrast with the chilly weather. She showed off her toned bikini body next to the brilliant blue water. Dakota was spotted late last month spending a fun-filled day at Universal Studios Hollywood with her sister, fellow actress Elle Fanning, 20. The younger actress recently revealed that she refused to watch a young Dakota when she scored a part as one of Phoebe's triplets on Friends because she had been rejected for the same role. Tropical getaway: Earlier in March, the Man On Fire star showed off some warm weather snaps from a bachelorette party in Miami, a striking contrast with the chilly weather Fun in the sun: She showed off her toned bikini body next to the brilliant blue water Loving sisters: Dakota was spotted late last month spending a fun-filled day at Universal Studios Hollywood with her sister, fellow actress Elle Fanning (L), 20; pictured in 2018 The Coraline actress will next be seen in Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, the ninth feature-length film from Pulp Fiction director Quentin Tarantino. Dakota will appear in a supporting role as Lynette 'Squeaky' Fromme, a follower of Charles Manson who was later sentenced to life in prison for the attempted assassination of President Gerald Ford. The dramedy, which stars Leonard DiCaprio and Brad Pitt, is connected to the 1969 murders of actress Sharon Tate and four others in a rented house north of Beverly Hills. Margot Robbie co-stars as Tate in the film, though the film appears to only loosely match up with real-life events. She's kept a low profile since rocking the Kardashian-Jenner world by hooking up with Tristan Thompson. But Jordyn Woods returned to the party scene in style on Friday night, donning a skin-baring ensemble for a night out at West Hollywood hotspot Craigs. The 21-year-old Good American model rocked a plunging top and a minuscule mini skirt for her return to the public eye. She's back! Jordyn Woods returned to the party scene in style on Friday night, donning a skin-baring ensemble for a night out at West Hollywood hotspot Craigs The raven-haired beauty went braless beneath her black top, which revealed plenty of Jordyn's cleavage. The cropped top also gave a glimpse of the top of her stockings, which peeked out above a tiny miniskirt. Woods wore her hair in a bob with bangs, and the highlight of her impeccable makeup was a dab of nude lip. The BFF of billionaire Kylie Jenner gave a discreet thumbs up as she entered the upscale Los Angeles eatery. Taking the plunge: The 21-year-old Good American model rocked a plunging top and a minuscule mini skirt for her return to the public eye Back in black: The raven-haired beauty went braless beneath her black top, which revealed plenty of Jordyn's cleavage Peep show: The cropped top also gave a glimpse of the top of her stockings, which peeked out above a tiny miniskirt Woods is preparing to jet off to London in the wake of her cheating scandal with Khloe Kardashian's now ex Tristan Thompson. The model, 21, took to her Instagram platform on Friday to tell her followers that she will soon be in the British capital to promote her new Eylure lash collection with Superdrug. It seems like Jordyn will be attempting to give her former best friend Kylie Jenner some time to think things through, as it's been reported by TMZ that the billionaire is 'so over their friendship' and 'determined to move on'. Broken relationship: Kylie Jenner [right] allegedly still isn't speaking to Jordyn since the cheating incident and wants to draw a line on their relationship. Seen in August 2018 The make-up mogul allegedly still isn't speaking to Jordyn since the incident and wants to draw a line on their relationship. Jordyn poured her heart out in a Red Table Talk interview with Jade Pinkett Smith last month, denying she had cheated with Tristan. The Cleveland Cavaliers player shares baby True, 11 months, with Kylie's sister Khloe, who has reportedly been left devastated by the claims. Kylie wasn't buying her childhood friend's apology, however, and the public denial supposedly annoyed her even more. TMZ reports that Kylie has asked Jordyn to come and pick up her stuff from her guest house in a bid to cut ties. A source claims that while Kylie might consider being 'amicable' in future, their days of being best friends are over for good. Married At First Sight's Bronson Norrish has finally gone 'Instagram official' with pole dancer girlfriend Melissa Dobson. In a photo shared to the site on Friday, the 35-year-old former stripper could not wipe the smile off his face as he posed next to his ladylove. While Melissa had been posting numerous pictures of the couple in recent weeks, Bronson had chosen to not reveal her full identity, by concealing her face. Ines, who? Married At First Sight's Bronson Norrish (right) FINALLY goes 'Instagram official' with pole dancer girlfriend Melissa Dobson (left) In the photo, Bronson sported a white T-shirt and embraced Melissa, as they stood in front of Perth's Empire bar. Melissa, 34, coordinated with her beau in a white ensemble, and placed one hand affectionately on Bronson's shoulder. Appearing to be somewhat of a promotional post, Bronson wrote in the picture's caption: 'Sneaky pre drinks this Sunday before the short walk to Optus Stadium for the big (NRL) game. Can't wait!' Being the first time Bronson has shared a photo with his girlfriend's face clearly visible, fans wasted no time in wishing the couple well. Official: While Melissa, 34, had regularly posted photos of the couple to Instagram, it was only until Friday that Bronson, 35, had shared a photo with his girlfriend's face clearly visible 'So happy to see you with a nice girl,' one directed at the reality TV star, along with another who wrote: 'You deserve a lovely lady Bronson... all the best.' Bronson's new romance with Melissa, after his ill-fated 'marriage' to co-star Ines Basic, was revealed by Daily Mail Australia in February. During an exclusive chat, Melissa revealed that the pair actually met 17 years ago, and that Bronson tracked her down last year after his 'marriage' to TV wife Ines Basic ended in October. After Bronson unexpectedly reached out to her, Melissa joked: 'I had no idea who he was, and I had to ask him, "Who are you? Sorry I don't remember (laughs)".' Revealed: Daily Mail Australia exclusively revealed in February that Bronson had begun dating Melissa, a Perth-based pole dance instructor and model She continued: 'It was 17 years since we last seen each other. We caught up and had a connection straight away and spoke about the old days.' 'Every time we caught up, there was more and more we learnt about each other that we had in common. From there he swept me off my feet.' Melissa, who is also a passionate charity worker in Western Australia and animal rescue advocate, added: 'It's all about timing and he really is an amazing guy. I feel like I'm the most luckiest girl in the world.' Sharing his thoughts on their relationship, after having enjoyed a romantic trip to Bali together, Bronson said: 'I am extremely happy.' Due to contractual restrictions attached to his appearance on Married At First Sight, Bronson said he is unable to say anything more. She began dating Reece Hawkins just months after he split up with his fiancee Tammy Hembrow. And now London Goheen could be set to rival her boyfriend's ex, as she teases a collaboration with two fashion brands. The 21-year-old American model looks to be working on a clothing and footwear line, after Tammy's successful launch of Saski Collection. Soon-to-be business rivals? London Goheen (left) could be set to rival her boyfriend's ex Tammy Hembrow (right), as she teases a collaboration with two fashion brands London took to Instagram on Saturday, teasing a collaboration with London-based footwear designer Naked Wolfe, and Australian bespoke fashion line, Her Pony The Label. A photo saw the brunette beauty standing in front of a car park in Los Angeles, in a white singlet top, black mini-skirt, black blazer and chunky '90s style white sneakers. Without giving away the exact details of the project, London wrote in the picture's caption: 'Working on some things for all my girlies... can't wait to share, soon!!! xo.' New flame: American model London began dating Reece Hawkins (pictured), just months after he split up with his fiancee Tammy Vague: Without giving away much detail, London told Instagram fans on Saturday that she's creating something for 'all my girlies' Daily Mail Australia has reached out to London for comment. London's yet to be unveiled collaboration could potentially rival Tammy's successful athleisure brand, Saski Collection. The 24-year-old fitness model created the brand in 2017, combining her passion for fitness and fashion. Designs: Saski Collection features crop tops, high-waisted leggings, sweatpants, as well as 'booty shorts' and sheer midriffs, in colours ranging from black and grey to neon yellow and pink Tammy travelled to New York for Fashion Week last September, where her label was showcased on the runway. Saski Collection features crop tops, high-waisted leggings, sweatpants, as well as 'booty shorts' and sheer midriffs, in colours ranging from black and grey to neon yellow and pink. Pieces from the range have been worn by LA socialite Chantel Jeffries, reality star and model Nicole Williams, Skye Wheatley and Kylie Jenner's BFF Anastasia Karanikolaou. The BJPs central election committee, comprising Mr Modi and Mr Shah, however, rejected his name, which led to speculation in the media. Guwahati: In an obvious attempt to put all speculations to rest, BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said that senior party leader and Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will not be given a ticket to contest the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. Despite the state u-nit recommending his name for the Lok Sabha elections, Mr Sarma has been asked to concentrate on developing the state and strengthening the partys base in the Northeast, Mr Shah said this in a series of tweets in Hindi. Mr Sarma responded to the tweets, saying that he has accepted the decision humbly and the region will not disappoint Mr Shah in making Narendra Modi the Prime Minister again. I hope the Assam BJP and the workers of the entire Northeast will ac-cept this decision. I fully believe it will take Assa-m and the Northeast to-wards the path of development, Mr Shah said. Mr Shah tweeted, The central BJP wants Mr Sarma to continue as a minister in Assam and discharge his duties as the chairman of the Nor-th East Democratic Alli-ance (NEDA), the regional platform of the NDA. The BJP president said, Mr Sarma is needed for coordination between the region and the central party, and the government in New Delhi. The Assam election committee and the party workers had sent Mr Sarmas name unanimously for the Lok Sabha polls. The central BJP has wished that he should strengthen the party in Assam and Northeast while remaining as a minister in Assam, and convener of the NEDA, Mr Shah said. Expressing gratefulness for the faith bestowed upon him by the BJP national president, Mr Sarma responded in another tweet, I humbly accept your decision. It is significant that Mr Sarma on numerous occasions stated that he would not contest the Assembly elections in the state in 2021, indicating that he was looking for a national role. In fact, in the last Cabinet meeting, Mr Sarma told reporters that it was his last Cabinet meeting. The Assam BJP had sent only one name for the candidate for the prestigious Tezpur constituency in Assam while preparing the state units panel of names for the elections. The BJPs central election committee, comprising Mr Modi and Mr Shah, however, rejected his name, which led to speculation in the media. Mr Shahs tweets have been seen as an attempt to put an end to this. The ninth season of The Walking Dead has been a tumultuous and unsettling one since leader Rick Grimes' departure as Alexandria's existence comes under threat by the Whisperers. And amid the series' terror, show star Norman Reedus attended 36th Annual PaleyFest on Friday in Los Angeles alongside his The Walking Dead co-stars Lauren Ridloff and Eleanor Matsuura. The 50-year-old actor, who has played Daryl Dixon on the show since 2010, looked dapper for his red carpet appearance in a black shirt and matching patterned tie. Walk this way: Norman Reedus attended 36th Annual PaleyFest on Friday in Los Angeles The star, who has moved into the central spotlight since Grimes' departure, complemented his look with a pair of charcoal-coloured suit trousers while his trademark shoulder-length hair was styled loose. Speaking at the Q&A, Norman revealed that his character Daryl, who does not appear in the comics, was influenced by his own early on-set experience when he believed the cast 'hated' him. The screen star, who has appeared on the show since 2010, said he 'had a chip on his shoulder' as he filmed his first scene. He said: 'I came on in the third episode and that cast really knew each other. Star studded: He was joined alongside his The Walking Dead co-stars Lauren Ridloff (L) and Eleanor Matsuura (R) Dapper: The actor, who plays Daryl Dixon, looked dapper for his red carpet appearance in a black shirt and matching patterned tie alongside his other co-star Ryan Hurst Cast: Host Chris Hardwick chatted to Executive producer Angela Kang as well as (L-R) the cast Norman Reedus, Ryan Hurst, Christian Serratos, Eleanor Matsuura and Lauren Ridloff 'They had been doing press and they were all stupid-tightin the beginning I didnt quite know what I was going to do yet, I kind of had an idea of the Southern thing and I did that a little bit. Adding: 'The first scene I did was, "Merle, come down here, I got squirrels let's stew them up," which is a crazy line, first offwhen I turn around there is all this cast. There's like 13 people who were just staring at me. 'And I immediately got a chip on my shoulder. I was like, "They hate me." And I realized, that's who this guy [Daryl] is. "You hate me? I hate you, too." And thats just how I started.' Walking out: The star, who has moved into the central spotlight since Grimes' departure, complemented his look with a pair of charcoal-coloured suit trousers Storyline: Norman teased what fans could expect, with rumours circulating that it could rival Game Of Thrones infamous Red Wedding episode in terms of characters carnage Open: Speaking at the Q&A, Norman revealed that his character Daryl, who does not appear in the comics, was influenced by his own early on-set experience when he believed the cast 'hated' him Also dishing on the final two episodes of the ninth season, Norman teased what fans could expect, with rumours circulating that it could rival Game Of Thrones infamous Red Wedding episode in terms of characters carnage. He hinted: 'Rock 'em sock 'em robots. There was a warnow the two teams are going at each other. It does feel like a western.' Meanwhile, back on the red carpet Lauren Ridloff turned heads in a red and blue snakeskin print midi dress. Print perfection: Bringing a pop of colour to the carpet was Lauren Ridloff, who turned heads in a red and blue snakeskin print midi dress Bold: The American actress, who plays Connie on the AMC series, posed for photos at the event All in the details: Lauren accessorised her plunging garment with a pair of neon yellow earrings Chic: She completed her ensemble with a pair of black stilettos The American actress, who plays Connie on the AMC series, accessorised her plunging garment with a pair of neon yellow earrings and black stilettos. British actress Eleanor Matsuura, 35, looked chic in forest green-coloured suit, which she layered over a graphic white and red tee. The Japanese-born star joined the series as Andrew Lincoln's character Rick left, but has been an integral part of the show's tonal shift since showrunner Angela Kang made the decision to jump the storyline six years in the future. During the Q&A at the PaleyFest TV festival, she said that show's high on-screen death rate keeps the show 'sexy' and believes that the uncertainty around characters' futures has contributed to the its success. Delight: British actress Eleanor Matsuura, 35, looked chic in forest green-coloured suit, which she layered over a graphic white and red tee Integral: The Japanese-born star joined the series as Andrew Lincoln's character Rick left, but has been an integral part of the show's tonal shift since showrunner Angela Kang made the decision to jump the storyline six years in the future Thigh's the limit: Christian Serratos donned a glittering knit dress with a thigh-high slit In the clear: She walked across the stage in a pair of clear mules In the blue: Showrunner Angela Kang attended the event in a bold aqua blue midi dress Eleanor, who plays Yumiko, told the Press Association: 'It's kind of cool actually. It keeps the show sexy. You know that no character is safe all the time, you know there's always danger around the corner. 'I think thats why people love the show so much and why they tune in.' Also attending the event was their co-star Christian Serratos, who donned a glittering knit dress with a thigh-high slit and accessorised with a pair of clear mules. Act: Comedian Chris Hardwick (L) chaired the event while show star Ryan Hurst, who plays Beta, was in attendance She recently returned from a luxurious trip to the Maldives, where she celebrated best pal Billie Faiers' wedding. And Ferne McCann was keen to keep the party going as she headed for a night out at reality star hotspot, Sheesh restaurant in Chigwell on Friday. The First Time Mum star, 28, looked chic in a daring, low-cut patterned peach mini dress, which showed off a hint of her brown lacy bra underneath while also putting her endless and extremely toned legs on full display. Big night out: Ferne McCann, 28, was keen to keep the party going as she headed for a night out at Sheesh restaurant in Chigwell on Friday night Ferne, who has recently had a fitness overhaul and released a workout DVD, was sure to show off the fruits of her hard labour in the sexy mini. The short ruffled hem of her dress perfectly showed off the reality star's tanned, toned legs, with Ferne adding a pair of pointed snakeskin boots to her look. The mum-of-one, who shares 17-month-old daughter Sunday with her acid attacker ex Arthur Collins, looked glowing as her bronzed tan from her trip still remained, with the star upping the glam with a smoky eye and a slick of lip gloss. Ferne let her honey-blonde tresses flow freely on her shoulders, completing her ensemble with delicate gold jewellery. Chic: The First Time Mum star looked chic in a daringly low-cut patterned peach mini dress, which showed off a hint of her brown lacy bra underneath Former TOWIE star Ferne kept her fans updated with the day's activities on Instagram stories, which featured her at an earlier photo shoot. She panned the camera to both the model and photographer as she shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of her new fashion line Souki Belair. Ferne then headed to Sheesh with her pals where she showed off the group's delicious looking meal. Out and about: The short ruffled hem of her dress perfectly showed off the reality star's tanned, toned legs, with Ferne adding a pair of pointed snakeskin boots to her look The star also shared a snap of herself enjoying dessert at the Essex hot spot, where she tucked into a meal of strawberries and cream. Ferne's night out comes after she showed off her bikini body in a photo shoot with former TOWIE co-star and pal Danielle Armstrong, 30. Prancing about in a canary yellow two-piece, Ferne pouted as she took selfies while showing off her washboard abs and toned arms. Yum: The star also shared a snap of herself enjoying dessert at the Essex hotspot, where she tucked into a meal of strawberries and cream Party time: Ferne was still in the party mood weeks after returning from pal Billie Faiers and Greg Shepherd's wedding in The Maldives with daughter Sunday In the background of the clip, shared on Instagram, Danielle could be seen posing for professional photographer James Rudland in a skimpy red string bikini. Proving she can still enjoy her favourite treats, she was spotted on footage on Danielle's social media account nibbling on a cupcake as she stood in a blue leopard print bikini. Ferne recently caused bosses who produced her fitness DVD Fit As Ferne to be furious after she promoted a supplement alongside a picture of herself in a yellow bikini. A source told The Sun: 'Ferne's fitness DVD bosses are fuming. They can't believe she has credited Herbalife with helping her get her pre-pregnancy body back. Fit friends: Ferne was back in a bikini once again as she took part in a photo shoot with her pal Danielle Armstrong, 30, at Hutton Hall in Brentwood, Essex, on Thursday 'Her DVD has been promoted as the 'workout that got her into the best shape of her life' after having Sunday. 'Yet, she's also saying that a meal replacement shakes and bars were the trick to achieving her post-baby body. It's a nightmare.' In the post in question, Ferne wrote on January 4: 'I look like this because I decided to do a 30 day challenge [with Herbalife] this time last year in Jan.' The post was shared on her @fernutrition account which has 100,000 followers compared to the 2,200,000 admirers on her official Instagram account. Trim: Prancing about in a canary yellow two-piece, the mother-of-one pouted as she took selfies while showing off her washboard abs and toned arms Treat: Ferne was spotted on footage on Danielle's social media account nibbling on a cupcake as she posed in a blue leopard print bikini Herbalife member Ferne claimed her journey with the supplement began when she was pregnant and she was 'blown away' by her BFF Danielle's figure. She wrote on the official website: 'My Herbalife Nutrition journey began when I was pregnant. I was blown away by my friend Danielle Armstrong's body transformation. 'She had completely changed her body shape by dropping 21 lbs in body weight & gained 7 lbs of lean muscle. 'She was glowing and looked absolutely incredible. I couldn't believe this was all down to Herbalife Nutrition.' Rachael Finch has been busy travelling around America the past week - stopping in New York City and Los Angeles. And it seems the model's five-year-old daughter, Violet, has had enough of the concrete jungles overseas. The youngster demanded to play in some foliage on Friday, with Rachael, 30, searching far and wide for a grassy knoll. 'I want to put my feet in the grass!' On Friday, Rachael Finch (pictured) went hunting for a patch of lawn so her daughter Violet, five, could play on in the middle of Los Angeles The model took to Instagram Stories to share a video in which she's sitting on a small patch of lawn in the Californian metropolis of Los Angeles. Rachael explained that after having breakfast in the hotel that morning, Violet had declared: 'I want to see some grass! I want to put my feet in the grass!' The dutiful mum scouted a small area of lawn by a roadside and it seemed enough to please her little girl. Comfy: The model took to Instagram Stories on Friday to share a video in which she's sitting on a small patch of lawn in the Californian metropolis of LA Rachael explained that after having breakfast in the hotel that morning, Violet (pictured) had declared: 'I want to put my feet in the grass!' As she filmed, Violet skipped in the background As the model filmed, her daughter gleefully ran and skipped around in the background. The brunette said to camera with a laugh: 'So we found a little spot. Violet is doing some sprints, and here we are!' Rachael spent the past week in the Big Apple with her husband Mike Miziner, daughter Violet and son Dominic, 2, before jetting across the country to LA. Travel time: Rachael (right) took to Instagram earlier in the week to share a photo of herself and Violet (left) all rugged up in Manhattan Family time: Rachael spent the past week in the Big Apple with her husband Mike Miziner (centre) daughter Violet and son Dominic, 2 (left) before jetting across the country to LA She took to Instagram earlier in the week to share a photo of herself and Violet all rugged up in Manhattan, quite the contrast to their morning in sunny LA. She has been in the United States promoting her health and fitness brand, Body By Finch. Rachael's fitness app, Body By Finch, is popular with several local celebrities, including Home and Away's Sam Frost. The brunette beauty and Michael met on Dancing With The Stars back in late 2010 and tied the knot in January 2013. Love Island's Olivia Buckland sent temperatures soaring during her Barbados holiday on Friday before she was fat shamed by a beach vendor. The Love Island star, 25, looked fantastic in an animal print bikini top with raunchy cut outs before she took to Twitter to share her outrage over the incident. She wrote angrily: 'Wowwww so one of the guys who runs the jet skis out here just thought it fine to tell me I had put on weight & that I needed to watch myself.' 'He thought it was fine to say I'd put on weight!' Olivia Buckland sizzled in tiny bikini during Barbados break on Friday... before she was FAT-SHAMED by beach vendor The Instagram sensation said she tried to laugh off the cruel remarks as she made a joke at her own expense about 'married life' but the beach vendor made another dig. She wrote: 'I tried to laugh it off saying "married life" and he continued to say I needed to just be careful & go back to what I was. CHEERS 4 THAT.' Olivia admitted she was left mortified by his cutting comments as she spiraled into a furious social media tirade. Outrage: Olivia admitted she was left mortified by his cutting comments as she spiraled into a furious social media tirade Fuming: The Love Island star, 25, looked fantastic in an animal print bikini top with raunchy cut outs before she took to Twitter to share her outrage Seething: The reality star told how she was 'so shocked' she walked away from the beach vendor when she updated her fans with a follow-up tweet Hard time: The Instagram sensation said she tried to laugh off the cruel remarks as she made a joke at her own expense about 'married life' but the beach vendor made another dig The reality star told how she was 'so shocked' she walked away from the beach vendor when she updated her fans with a follow-up tweet. 'Wish I had gave him a good earful but I was so shocked I walked away. 'oh well. Sometimes life will show you these kind of people & you just gotta take a breath & turn the other cheek, my apparent bigger a** cheek at that.' The Love Island star has been showing off the rewards of her fitness labours in a slew of different swimming costumes. Ink-credible: Tattoos covered Olivia's incredible physique including two theatrical masks on her left thigh and a rose etched in red ink on her right leg Wonderful wardrobe choices: The Love Island star has been showing off the rewards of her fitness labours in a slew of different swimming costumes Olivia looked phenomenal in her leopard print swimming number when she relaxed on the beach with her husband Alex. She rested her sunglasses on her head which neatly swept her cropped blonde locks from her face. Incredible tattoos covered Olivia's incredible physique including two theatrical masks on her left thigh and a rose etched in red ink on her right leg. Dolled up: Olivia maintained her glamorous TV image by applying heavy make-up to her face Quick one! The blonde reality star popped back to the room on her own momentarily with her iPhone and room key to hand Abs-olutely incredible: Olivia looked phenomenal in her leopard print swimming number when she headed back from the beach to the hotel Sensational: Olivia carried her essentials in a rucksack while Alex continued to relax on the sun lounger Alex browsed his social media on his phone as he relaxed on the sun lounger which was surrounded by their belongings. With 1.4million followers to impress, he took to Instagram to share a touching tribute to his wife during their idyllic getaway. He wrote: 'Everytime we come back here we swim with the (turtles) and each time is amazing.' (sic) Snap a picture! Alex browsed his social media on his phone as he relaxed on the sun lounger which was surrounded by their belongings Prepared: The barefoot star picked up her wedge flip flops incase she wanted to slip them back on when she headed back to the hotel Lovebirds: The couple were very comfortable in each other's company Earlier in the day, the smitten Love Island couple shared a tender moment when they locked lips on the balcony. Alex cupped a giddy Olivia's face as they looked lovingly into each other's eyes after the pair had awoken from their sweet slumber. Before she jetted off on holiday, Olivia had a cosy chat with MailOnline about how her husband Alex has motivated her to be healthier as they work out together. It can only be love: With 1.4million followers to impress, he took to Instagram to share a touching tribute to his wife during their idyllic getaway Happy together: Olivia slipped into a yellow bikini when she went swimming with turtles as she branded her husband her 'favourite' person It's real love: Earlier in the day, the smitten Love Island couple shared a tender moment when they locked lips on the balcony Spotted: Alex cupped a giddy Olivia's face as they looked lovingly into each other's eyes after the pair had awoken from their sweet slumber She told us: 'Everyone thinks when you're married you let yourself go, but me and Alex have gotten quite into the gym and being healthy.' The television personality chatted about how marriage has brought her even closer to Alex as she praised her love for being 'really caring' and 'noticing things'. Talking more about her marriage, Olivia also said: 'I don't feel any different now that we're married. If anything, we feel closer.' Good match: Olivia revealed her thoughtful husband Alex always makes her feel better because he senses when she is upset Lovely: Alex's face lit up as he laid his eyes on his stunning ladylove Olivia revealed her thoughtful husband Alex always makes her feel better because he senses when she is upset. She added: 'Alex is really caring, and he really notices things. He has an awareness of when I'm feeling down, or when I don't feel right. 'We know how to make each other feel better, and feel good. It's a trust thing. If you don't have trust you have nothing.' Hilarious: Giggling Olivia wiped tears of laughter from her face as she enjoyed her beau's company during their getaway Mother-daughter duo Katie Holmes and Suri Cruise are on their way home from a humanitarian trip. Tom Cruise's ex-wife, 40, took their 12-year-old to Greece to visit Moria Refugee Camp, where they worked with some of the women and young children. Smiling on their way through departures at Athens International Airport on Saturday morning, the duo seemed to have had a life altering experience. Heading home: Katie Holmes and daughter Suri Cruise were seen leaving Athens International Airport on Saturday after a humanitarian trip to Greece Katie looked casual in cropped jeans, matching a caramel coloured Madewell knit with her sliders. Suri, meanwhile, travelled in a pair of pink patterned trousers, a scarf and sporty trainers, while also adding a Madewell knit to her look for warmth. The pair were seen leaving New York last week and Katie spent this weekend uploading photos from their humanitarian trip on Instagram. Flying home: The pair were seen flying back to New York after a life altering experience Week away: They left New York last week to visit the Moria Refugee Camp Katie wrote: 'I am so grateful for this experience of working with and getting to know these incredible women in #moriarefugeecamp their hearts are so kind.' The Dawson's Creek actress is a global ambassador for Artolution, a community-based public art project that helps to address a variety of challenges faced by local residents. Visiting on behalf of the project, Katie and her daughter were photographed decorating and making art with the refugees in a series of Katie's pictures. Suri, dressed in a charity T-shirt, was also seen playing with a younger boy as the pre-teen got stuck in with the volunteering experience. Incredible: Katie shared pictures from the Moria Refugee Camp after spending a week with the women and young children Volunteering: Katie took her pre-teen to play with the refugees and teach them things After their visit, the Artolution project thanked Katie and Suri in a statement on Instagram. It said: 'Thank you, Katie Holmes for your support AND working on the ground with us in Greece, teaching performance to refugees in the Moria Refugee Camp! 'Showing up and sharing this experience together. Kindness in action.' Greece's Moria refugee camp faced closure last September over 'uncontrollable amounts of waste'. The biggest refugee camp in Greece, Moria was declared 'dangerous for public health and the environment.' Glowing: Katie smiled broadly as she prepared to board her US-bound flight Working hard: Katie has been serving as global ambassador for their project, Artolution They were issued a 30-day deadline for improvement and it now seems like Artolution will have been able to ease some of the improvements. Katie's trip follows claims that her long-term relationship with Hollywood actor Jamie Foxx has come to an end. Jamie allegedly declared that he was 'single' at a February Oscars party, but since then, neither has addressed any break up publicly. It's been just over two years since Katie and Jamie went public with their notoriously secretive romance, after years of speculation. Last November, there was speculation that they were planning a secret wedding in Paris, despite never confirming an engagement. Good cause: The Dawson's Creek star used her profile to raise awareness of the project Touch down: Katie and her mini me daughter Suri hopped off the airplane Luggage: Katie hauled a pale pink suitcase off the plane as they stepped off Here we are! After a long flight the family arrived in the sunshine Windy: It appeared that the mother an daughter were struggling with the wind Gusty: Suri grappled with her pretty pink scarf which appeared to be trying to make its escape Coordinated: Suri's trendy outfit was complete with touches of pink Travel attire: Katie chatted to a member of staff before pulling her case along the tarmac Nova radio star Matt de Groot wed journalist Bronte Coy in a beautiful country wedding in Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales on Saturday. The newsreader looked dapper in a tailored black suit alongside his bride, who wore a flowing Moira Hughes Couture gown. Notable guests included former Bachelor Matty Johnson and pregnant girlfriend Laura Byrne, as well as Nova duo Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald and Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli. Scroll down for video Country nuptials: Nova radio star Matt de Groot wed journalist Bronte Coy in Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales on Saturday. Guests included Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald, Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli and their partners (pictured far left) In stunning photos shared to Instagram by guests, the couple tied the knot underneath a floral arch. Bronte looked beautiful in an off-white Moira Hughes Couture gown with a V-neckline, and flowing of fabric from the waist down. The reporter accessorised with statement jewel drop earrings, and had her blonde locks styled into an elegant half-up, half-down do. Matt cut a dapper figure in a crisp white dress shirt, a tailored black suit jacket and trousers and black bow tie. Bride and groom: Bronte looked beautiful in an off-white Moira Hughes Couture gown, while Matt cut a dapper figure in a crisp white dress shirt, a tailored black suit jacket and trousers and black bow tie Familiar faces: Former Bachelor star Laura Byrne, who attended with beau Matty Johnson (both pictured), captured the day on her Instagram Stories The reception was held at a nearby venue, where a rustic decor theme featured throughout. Former Bachelor star Laura Byrne, who attended with beau Matty Johnson, captured the day on her Instagram Stories. Overcome with emotion, the 32-year-old humorously captioned one of her posts: 'My eyes aren't leaking... it's just humid.' Matt's Nova colleagues Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald and Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli, also posted snapshots of the day to Instagram, under the hashtag 'decoywedding'. How Matt and Bronte first met makes for a great conversation starter. Emotional: Overcome with emotion, the 32-year-old humorously captioned one of her posts: 'My eyes aren't leaking... it's just humid' Festivities: The reception was held at a nearby venue, where a rustic decor theme featured throughout Matt was interstate when he employed Bronte at a former job, and it wasn't until around a year later that they finally met. 'I was like, "Oh dear, we are in a small pickle here, because now my employee is someone I find quite remarkable,"' he told 9Honey in December. Bronte returned to her home in Melbourne with Matt based in Sydney, and it wasn't until a light-bulb moment that made him take action. 'I was driving along (and) just went, 'Matt, what are you doing?'' he recalled. 'Everything you're looking for in a person - a best friend, someone that makes you laugh, someone that challenges you, someone you're proud to walk into a room with and say have-a-look-at-this-beautiful-person-that-has-picked-me she's right in front of you.' She's been in wedded bliss since returning from her idyllic nuptials to long-term partner Greg Shepherd in the Maldives earlier this month. And now Billie Faiers, 29, sent her social media followers wild as she unveiled a dramatic new look, swapping her trademark golden-hued locks for a long silver-coloured wig for a saucy Instagram post on Saturday. A departure from her usual style, the ITVBe star had her fans likening her to American reality star Kim Kardashian, 38, under the social media snap. Dramatic: Billie Faiers, 29, sent her social media followers wild as she unveiled a dramatic new look, swapping her trademark golden-hued locks for a long silver-coloured wig for a saucy Instagram post on Saturday In the photo, Billie appeared to channel her inner Barbie as she sported a one-shouldered baby pink top while her wig, which was made by hairstylist Carl Bembridge, fell in long straight style down her shoulders. The reality star complemented her playful appearance with a glowing beauty look and wore a dramatic pink eye. Captioning the shot, she wrote: 'Saturday vibes .... loved changing up my look' as she thanked her glam squad. Astounded by her transformation, some of Billie's 1.9million followers commented about her incredible new look, with many drawing similarities to Kim Kardashian and even Barbie. Similarities: The ITVBe star had her fans likening her to American reality star Kim Kardashian (R) under the social media snap Golden girl: Billie's silver-hued hair is a departure from her usual shoulder-length golden locks One wrote: 'Wow!!! Kim Kardashian eat your heart out'. 'Kim k double,' another said. 'On a quick glance I though you was one of the Kardashians'. A fourth lamented: 'Looking like @kimkardashian.' 'Come on barbie lets go party,' a fan posted. 'Look a beautiful natural Barbie'. Barbie girl: In the photo, Billie appeared to channel her inner Barbie as she sported a one-shouldered baby pink top while her new locks fell in long straight style down her shoulders Comments: Some of Billie's 1.9million followers commented about her incredible new look, with many drawing similarities to Kim Kardashian and even Barbie While another said she looked similar to X-Men character Storm: 'You look like Storm from the Avengers!' Meanwhile, Billie and long-term partner Greg Shepherd, 33, married in an idyllic beach ceremony on the Maldives earlier this month. The couple spoke to OK! magazine about their idyllic honeymoon on the island of Medhufaru and how they feel about baby number three. The reality star revealed that she and Greg made memories to 'last a lifetime' on the idyllic island off the Maldives, shortly before giving a candid insight into how she nailed her bridal body with the help of a personal trainer. Astounded: Her fans couldn't get enough of the transformation Enamoured Billie added: 'We are privileged to have visited some amazing places over the years but nowhere quite compares.' And she revealed that the couple's first plans as a married couple are to go house hunting but despite saying baby number three isn't a 'priority the blonde beauty added: 'never say never'. The pair married after a five-year engagement and are parents to Nelly, four, and Arthur, two, but admitted that it was 'nice to take some time' on their honeymoon without their children. Quality time: The reality star revealed that she and Greg, 33, made memories to 'last a lifetime' on the idyllic island off the Maldives Alone: The pair married are parents to Nelly, four, and Arthur, two, but admitted that it was 'nice to take some time' on their honeymoon without their children Billie added: 'We obviously missed the kids so much but we had such a whirlwind of a week, it was nice to take some time for Greg and I to reflect on everything.' The Mummy Diaries star, who looked sensational in not one, but two gowns, on her big day revealed she enlisted the help of a personal trainer before the wedding to help her look her best. She explained: 'I have never been a gym-goer but I hired a personal trainer called Ellie Hopley a few months before my wedding so that I felt confident. Wow: Billie added: 'We obviously missed the kids so much but we had such a whirlwind of a week, it was nice to take some time for Greg and I to reflect on everything' Fit: The Mummy Diaries star who looked sensational in not one but two gowns on her big day revealed she enlisted the help of a personal trainer before the wedding However, their nuptials haven't been without controversy after they were accused of ruining a host of fellow holidaymakers' trips due to their guests' raucous behaviour. And while the pair remained defiant about the antics, the couple skirted their woes to enjoy their honeymoon. 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. She's recently returned from a trip to the Middle East with her TOWIE co-stars. And Clelia Theodorou was in a mood for reminiscing as she shared a sensational bikini clad snap on Instagram on Saturday of her time in Thailand. In the snap the reality star, 23, sported a two-piece in different shades of blue which accentuated her tone figure to perfection. Beach babe: Clelia Theodorou, 23, was in a mood for reminiscing as she shared a sensational bikini clad snap on Instagram on Saturday of her time in Thailand She left little to the imagination as her sensational bust was just about held up in the string bikini top. Clelia pulled up her bikini bottoms over her hips and luckily avoided a wardrobe malfunction. She left her brunette locks flowing and looked every-inch the beach babe as she posed against the white sand. The good life: The snaps come as Clelia was in Thailand earlier this year with the TOWIE gang for filming Unloved: Clelia recently told MailOnline that her Instagram followers hate her new fringe and as a result, she's opted to grow it out Clelia recently opened up to MailOnline about the struggles of being in the public eye. She revealed she was even going to be changing her hairstyle due to the negative reaction her new cut had been met with on Instagram. 'Everyone hates my fringe. I'm growing it out', she confessed. 'I thought I'd do something really different with my hair, but everyone on my Instagram hated it.' Haters: She revealed she was trolled: 'I've had it really bad where this person kept making more and more accounts, messaging me constantly. I was blocking them, but how can I get away?' There will be those who claim they can simply ignore the comments, or not read them, but Clelia explained it's not always that simple. She said: 'I've had it really bad where this person kept making more and more accounts, messaging me constantly. I was blocking them, but how can I get away?' Since joining the cast of TOWIE with best friend Shelby Tribble, the pair have documented their close friendship on social media. Katie Price showcased her cleavage in a low-cut gold costume, in Thailand as her ex Kieran Hayler gushed over girlfriend Michelle Penticost amid playground drama. The reality star, 40, escaped the country for some rest after she was in court over accusations that she yelled profanities at Michelle. Mother-of-five Katie didn't look like she had a worry in the world when she put on a busty display in a plunging swimsuit as she emerged from the water smiling. Looking sensational: Katie Price looked VERY busty in a revealing gold swimsuit in Thailand as Kieran Hayler gushed over his girlfriend Michelle Penticost amid playground drama As she led out on the poolside, the My Crazy Life leading star offered a look at her sideboob in a skimpy neckline style of her costume. Provocatively, the businesswoman ran her fingers through her long waist-length locks which were dripping wet following her swim. As Katie soaked up the sunshine, Kieran took to social media to praise his current girlfriend Michelle using a shirtless snap of himself. Mane attraction: Provocatively, the businesswoman ran her fingers through her long waist-length locks which were dripping wet following her swim On Friday, he wrote: '32 and feeling fresh!!!!! Had an amazing birthday!! Massive thank you to Michelle and all my friends and family.' His ex Katie was in court this week, accused of yelling profanities at his new girlfriend Michelle Penticost. But Kieran Hayler sided with the school teacher on his birthday on Friday, as they spent the night at a luxury spa in Sussex. Nude ambition: Katie showed off her peachy posterior in the barely-there costume as she kept cool in the pool under the scorching hot sunshine He'd spent his 32-year-old birthday luxuriating with new partner Michelle, who teaches at the same school that his children Jett, 5, and Bunny, 4, attend. It's been a stressful week for Kieran, whose estranged wife pleaded 'definitely not' guilty to claims she confronted Michelle in the school playground last September. Katie attended the Crawley Magistrates Court on Wednesday, her third court appearance this year, and will face trial at Horsham Magistrates on June 3. Breast attraction: As she led out on the poolside, the My Crazy Life leading star offered a look at her sideboob in a skimpy neckline style of her costume The head teacher at a primary school in the West Sussex village of Shipley overheard an altercation between Katie and Michelle late last year. Katie is accused of shouting 'Are you f***ing my husband?' at Michelle outside the school in front of shocked parents. The model was criticised for failing to attend a hearing last week while she was on holiday with current boyfriend Kris Boyson. On Friday, just as Kieran was celebrating his birthday, Katie cryptically condemned the betrayal that happened during her third marriage to Kieran. In multiple now-deleted images, the mum-of-five suggested that she was trying to 'forgive and trust' someone who 'betrayed' her. So in love: As Katie soaked up the sunshine, Kieran took to social media to praise his current girlfriend Michelle using a shirtless snap of himself Forgiveness: Katie posted quotes relating to relationships, betrayal, trust, forgiveness and self-love as she asserted she is 'back to calmness' and is herself again, after 'riding the storm' Many fans speculated that the individual in question was Katie's former best friend Jane Pountney, who had an affair with Kieran behind Katie's back. Katie acknowledged that a relationship 'can never "go back" to the way it was', but offered hope to her former friend with the hope that it 'can go forward.' Kieran was accused of being unfaithful on more than one occasion during his marriage to Katie. Current situation: Katie confirmed that the quotes she was posting related to her current situation, alongside an image which read: 'You must forgive those who hurt you' Betrayal: Next to a post that read: 'People are meant to betray you. Your friend had betrayed you many times' she added: 'Yes she did but we were talking all night' How and why: She continued: 'But we have spoken and know in-depth how and why it ended up like that,' alongside another heartbreaking quote He had an affair with Jane as well as Katie's pal Chrissy Thomas back in 2014, just one year after his wedding to the model. Katie also recently accused the former stripper of straying with the family nanny and a 19-year-old girl in their local Co-op. Katie confirmed her split from Kieran in May, after months of attempting to save their marriage following his affair with the family nanny Nikki Brown. Moving forward? Katie acknowledged that a relationship 'can never "go back" to the way it was', but offered hope to her former friend with the hope that it 'can go forward' Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos are one hot couple, and they know it. As a result, Kelly, 48, is constantly posting about her man, with the latest Instagram of the actor, 47, showing off his rock hard abs in a steamy video, which the talk show host shared on Friday. While most who saw the video were left floored, one person in particular wished she had never seen it - their 17-year-old daughter, Lola. Someone's been lifting: Mark Conseulos, 47, showed off his ripped abs in a video that wife Kelly Ripa, 48, re shared on Instagram Friday, creeping their daughter, Lola, 17, out Gifting viewers with her husband's sexiness, Ripa re-shared a video of the dark-haired hottie where he seductively lifted his grey shirt up to reveal his insanely toned stomach. The clip was originally recorded by Mark's Riverdale co-star, KJ Apa, 21. His superstar wife then re-posted the video, saying, 'This thirst trap Friday has been brought to you by the letters K and J. Thanks @kjapa.' With fans flocking to the post to share their amazement at Mark's fitness, their only daughter, Lola, instead shut things down. A stunning family: The proud parents smiled for a picture with their three kids, Lola, Joaquin, 16, and Michael, 21 while Kelly received her star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame She added an unenthused quip writing, 'I just reported this.' Lola's hilarious reaction to the too hot for words video of her father garnered hundreds of likes, proving plenty of users can relate to her agony over seeing her dad in that light. In response, the LIVE With Kelly And Ryan star joked back with some sass saying, 'Lola...... shouldn't you be reading a book or something?' But first coffee: Mark trolled KJ Apa, 21, as he subtly bragged about his toned physique in a video the Riverdale star posted to his story And being the gift that just keeps on giving, KJ shared other similar videos of his cast mate too. In one, Mark walked towards his fellow actor, holding an espresso machine. He playfully asked Apa if he's seen his caffeine creator as he slyly flexed his muscles and showed off his six pack. The All MY Children actor did the same in the video Kelly posted, trolling KJ and asking him if he'd seen his phone, when in reality, he was just throwing his fitness in his younger, also very muscular friend's face. That video caused a stir within the rest of the Hollywood community too, as other celebrities added their honest thoughts in the comments section. Lisa Rinna, 55, wrote, 'I am dead Daddy.' And The Soup comedian Joel McHale said, 'I think it's with your body hair.' This also isn't the first time that the blonde host's Instagram oversharing has traumatized poor Lola. Girl bye: Lola and her mom have it out in the comments section as the teenager shares her disgust with her parent's PDA Because just last Friday, the mom of three shared an old throwback picture of her and Mark in their early years together, packing on some PDA. In the picture, Mark wrapped his arms around Kelly's waist. She captioned the shot saying, '#fbf 2007 those hands." Again, after seeing her parents that close, Lola shared her discomfort saying, 'Is the caption necessary?' But despite Lola being grossed out, both Kelly and Mark continue to flaunt their love all over social media. India is set to hold separate bilateral forums with Croatia, Bolivia and Chile during President Ram Nath Kovind's visit to the countries. Kovind will be paying a state visit to Croatia from March 25 to 28, Bolivia from March 28 to 30 and Chile from March 30 to April 1. (File Photo) New Delhi: India is set to hold separate bilateral forums with Croatia, Bolivia and Chile during President Ram Nath Kovind's official visit to the countries from March 25 to April 2. Kovind will be paying a state visit to Croatia from March 25 to 28, Bolivia from March 28 to 30 and Chile from March 30 to April 1. "The large business delegations joining in the bilateral business forums organized as part of the visit of President, indicate the increasing interest of Indian companies in expanding business ties with these countries," the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official statement. Kovind will be meeting with Presidents of all the three countries during his visit India and Croatia are currently focusing on strengthening trade and investment linkages, according to the MEA. "Bolivias Lithium and our needs for eMobility and eStorage provide natural synergies. As Bolivia embarks on the industrialization of its resources, India is a willing partner for know-how, technology and skills. In the Financial Year 2017-18, the bilateral trade grew by 205 per cent to reach USD 772 million," the statement outlined. Meanwhile, Kovind's visit to Chile comes at a time when the 70th year of establishment of India-Chile diplomatic relations is being celebrated. "President's State Visits to the three countries would reinvigorate bilateral ties and provide new direction to multi-faceted development of our bilateral relations," the statement lastly noted. They were the glamour couple of Hollywood in the 1960s and 1970s. And now veteran actress Brenda Vaccaro, 79, has told UsWeekly that she and Michael Douglas, 74, used to have fun experimenting with drugs. The brunette beauty - who can next be seen with Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon A Time In Hollywood - claimed the two did acid. Uh-oh: They were the glamour couple of the 1960s and 1970s. And now veteran actress Brenda Vaccaro has told UsWeekly that she and Michael Douglas used to have fun experimenting with drugs; seen in the 1970 The truth comes out? The brunette beauty - who can next be seen with Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon A Time In Hollywood - claimed the two did acid. Seen in NYC on Friday 'I had never done any of that,' began the star, who worked with Douglas on his hit TV series The Streets Of San Francisco. 'Clear Pane, acid, grass, all that s*** was new to me.' Clear Pane is a clear or white, odorless, water-soluble material synthesized from lysergic acid, a compound derived from a rye fungus. LSD is initially produced in crystalline form, which can then be used to produce tablets known as 'microdots' or thin squares of gelatin called 'window panes.' Drugs days: 'I had never done any of that,' began the star, who worked with Douglas on his hit TV series The Streets Of San Francisco. 'Clear Pane, acid, grass, all that s*** was new to me.' Seen in 1973 Done it: She said the 'absolutely' tried acid together. 'It was 1965, '67, '68. It was a very special time. But acid, I didn't like it because I saw things five times,' said the pinup. Seen in the 1970s Vaccaro talked to the site when at the Broadway opening of Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations at the Longacre Theatre in New York City. She said they 'absolutely' tried acid together. 'It was 1965, '67, '68. It was a very special time. But acid, I didn't like it because I saw things five times,' said the pinup. And she said he was in a very different phase back then: 'He was a hippie,' she said. 'He still had his hair down to [his shoulder]. He'd been in Santa Barbara in a commune, I called him my hippie dippy.' SPILL: And she added he liked marijuana: 'He was a hippie,' she said. 'He still had his hair down to [his shoulder]. He'd been in Santa Barbara in a commune, I called him my hippie dippy.' Seen in Summertime in 1971 Good looks: Vaccaro was a siren who often played tough-talking women; seen in 1973 A rep for Douglas had no comment. But the star - whose father is Spartacus actor Kirk Douglas - was always very family oriented which she was drawn to. 'I think some of the most wonderful days we spent were with his family in Connecticut,' she explained. 'His mother was married to Bill Darrid we sat by the fireplace and cooked in the kitchen and had a picnic out on the front yard and those were the beginning days. Family first: But he was always very family oriented which she was drawn to. 'I think some of the most wonderful days we spent were with his family in Connecticut,' she explained. Seen in February 'We traveled a lot together and that was fun, too. And just being young and being together.' She also told Closer that the two had a 'hippie wedding.' 'This was the 1970s. No one got married,' she told the magazine in August 2017. 'Then we decided to have a "hippie wedding" at my agent's house. We said vows that we loved each other and would be together forever. Finally, it came time to say that we were doing it for real. I said, 'Yes,' then wound up backing out of it. I really messed that one up.' She looks a bit like Brenda: He married Catherine Zeta Jones, 49, in year 2000 and together they had son Dylan, 18, and daughter Carys, 15 Dream fam: (L to R) Patricia Fair, Dylan, Catherine, Carys and David James Jones attend The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama 2019 Gala at The Rainbow Room in NYC Douglas was wed to Diandra Luker from 1977 to 2000. They had son Cameron, 40, who has battled a heroin addiction and served time in prison for drug-related charges. He married Catherine Zeta Jones, 49, in year 2000 and together they had son Dylan, 18, and daughter Carys, 15. Vaccaro was married to Martin Fried in 1961, William Bishop in 1977, Charles Cannizzaro in 1981 and Guy Hector in 1986. Stronger than ever: Zeta-Jones (L) and Douglas attend the 76th Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in January Douglas has been open about his troubles with addiction. He was in rehab to fulfill a 30-day recovery program for drug and alcohol addiction. 'I was in rehab in 1991, probably more alcohol but drugs were a part of it,' he said in 2018. His first son: Michael's has son Cameron, 40, with his ex-wife; seen in LA in February He is doing just fine: Cameron has been sober for years and now has a child with his girlfriend 'I lost my brother and my eldest boy spent seven and a half years in federal prison for a non-violent drug offence now he is fine, doing really well, he explained. But he worries that Dylan and Carys will be forced to endure the same struggles hes been through. And he is doing everything in his power to make sure it doesnt happen again. You have to be careful, so you learn about genetics. [Addiction is] on both sides of my family so with my younger ones, they keep a much closer eye on it, Michael shared, adding that he has ongoing conversations with his children about addiction. Jacqueline Jossa has continued to hit back at suggestions she took her wedding ring off as she proudly showed off the eye-catching piece off jewellery at a Claire's Accessories event with her daughters on Saturday. The 26-year-old proved she has moved on from accusations made last week that her husband Dan Osborne shared a 'kiss' with Love Island's Alexandra Cane - which they have both denied - as she posed for photos at the Westfield White City store. The former EastEnders actress tucked her chic navy cropped jumper into her lightwash denim jeans and carried her adorable eight-month-old daughter Mia on her hip while Ella, four, beamed for cameras. Girls' day out: Jacqueline Jossa has continued to hit back at suggestions she took her wedding ring off as she proudly showed off the eye-catching piece off jewellery at a Claire's Accessories event with her daughters on Saturday Jacqueline appeared in jovial spirits as she flashed her diamond ring and draped her tan-coloured bag over her shoulder before indulging in a spot of glitter face paint. Continuing her stylish display, Jacqueline worked her brunette locks into a sleek top knot and sported a natural beauty look at the event, which saw Imogen Thomas, Rachel Stevens and Hollyoaks' Kieron Richardson in attendance. Adding an extra touch of glamour to the festivities was newly-married Billie Faiers, 29, who arrived with daughter Nelly and sister Sam. The ITVBe star looked stylish in a white shirt with a pair of dark denim flares while sister Sam wore a cream-coloured shirt with beige cargo pants. Family affair: The former EastEnders actress tucked her chic navy cropped jumper into her lightwash denim jeans alongside daughter Ella, four All that glitters: Jacqueline appeared in jovial spirits as she indulged in a spot of glitter face paint All smiles: She flashed her diamond ring and draped her tan-coloured bag over her shoulder The ITV darlings brought their daughter Nelly and Rosie along for the girly event. Meanwhile, Jacqueline's appearance comes it was said she was fuming after reports surfaced claiming her husband Dan shared a kiss Alexandra earlier this month. The beauty decided to take a break from all of the drama this week when she jetted off on a well-deserved getaway to the Culloden Estate and Spa in Bangor, Ireland. In pictures obtained by The Sun, the EastEnders actress was seen arriving at London City Airport with her suitcases to hand with a friend. Moving on: Jacqueline's appearance comes it was said she was fuming after reports surfaced claiming her husband Dan shared a kiss Alexandra earlier this month Beauty: The beauty decided to take a break from all of the drama this week when she jetted off on a well-deserved getaway to the Culloden Estate and Spa in Bangor, Ireland Having fun: Adding an extra touch of glamour to the festivities was newly-married Billie Faiers, 29, who arrived with daughter Nelly, sister Sam and niece Rosie Style savvy: The ITVBe star looked stylish in a white shirt with a pair of dark denim flares while sister Sam wore a cream-coloured shirt with beige cargo pants The glamorous mum-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. Girls: The sisters and their children looked in high spirits Fashion fiends: Sam's cream blazer featured a belted waist while Billie draped her Chanel bag across her torso Off-duty: She teamed the look with a pair of cream trainers Cute: Sam's daughter Rosie looked adorable in a pink top and leggings Picture perfect: Nelly sported face jewels and glitter for the event In the snap, the EastEnders star strategically placed her hand over her heart and she pointed to her sparkling rock. 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. On Thursday, the actress enjoyed some chill time with her children Ella and Mia as they watched Disney's Frozen in their living room. Denim days: Imogen Thomas donned a pair of high-waisted jeans for the event with her chunky white trainers Dazzling: The model also got into the spirit of the day and wore gold glitter on her face 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.' Star-studded: Corrie's Helen Flanagan (L) and Rachel Stevens (R) posed for photos at the event Fun-filled: Helen cradled her daughter Delilah in her arms A rep for Dan Osborne told the site that he has just temporarily moved out to help his nan clean out her house. 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. Selfie: Sam took a charming selfie with her little one Posing up a storm: Celebrity make-up artist Lou Teasdale (L) and stylist Caroline Watson (R) attended the event '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. Mother, daughter: Hollyoaks' Rachel Adedeji and her daughter Lillian Adedeji-Finegan smiled Celebrations: Hollyoaks star Kieron Richardson posed with his children Phoebe and Chase 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 has just returned from an humanitarian trip to Greece. And Katie Holmes and her daughter Suri were seen in new pictures taken at the Moria Refugee Camp on Thursday. The 40-year-old actress was seen wearing no make-up and an Artolution T-shirt, as she arrived at the camp to make art with refugees based there. Humanitarian trip: Katie Holmes was seen in new pictures taken at the Moria Refugee Camp on Thursday The beauty - who is rumoured to have now split from Jamie Foxx - arrived on the island of Lesbos last weekend. Tom Cruise's ex-wife and their 12-year-old daughter worked with some of the women and young children at the camp to create art projects. Katie wrote on her Instagram: 'I am so grateful for this experience of working with and getting to know these incredible women in #moriarefugeecamp their hearts are so kind.' Charitable ambassador: The 40-year-old actress was seen wearing no make-up and an Artolution T-shirt, as she arrived at the camp to make art with refugees based there The Dawson's Creek actress is a global ambassador for Artolution, a community-based public art project that helps to address a variety of challenges faced by local residents. Visiting on behalf of the project, Katie and her daughter were photographed decorating and making art with the refugees in a series of Katie's pictures. Suri, dressed in a charity T-shirt, was also seen playing with a younger boy as the pre-teen got stuck in with the volunteering experience. Fresh faced: Katie wore no make-up as she visited the camp with her daughter Suri Casual: She chose a green Mexico sweatshirt on Wednesday Philanthropic: The Hollywood star and her daughter (far left) looked happy to be there Helping out: She took belongings from the trunk of the car Warm welcome: The former wife of Tom Cruise opened her arms wide to greet those at the camp After their visit, the Artolution project thanked Katie and Suri in a statement on Instagram. It said: 'Thank you, Katie Holmes for your support AND working on the ground with us in Greece, teaching performance to refugees in the Moria Refugee Camp! 'Showing up and sharing this experience together. Kindness in action.' Raising awareness: The Dawson's Creek actress is a global ambassador for Artolution, a community-based public art project that helps to address a variety of challenges faced by local residents Positive experience: Visiting on behalf of the project, Katie and her daughter were photographed decorating and making art with the refugees in a series of Katie's pictures Love hearts: She shared images of some of the painting they had done Light relief: She posted the works they had done together in the camp Volunteering: Katie took her pre-teen to engage with the refugees and the positivity was clear Greece's Moria refugee camp faced closure last September over 'uncontrollable amounts of waste'. The biggest refugee camp in Greece, Moria was declared 'dangerous for public health and the environment.' They were issued a 30-day deadline for improvement and it now seems like Artolution will have been able to ease some of the improvements. The New York Times visited the camp in October last year, and found squalid conditions where around 9,000 people were living in a space designed for just 3,100. They reported that the overcrowding at the camp is so extreme that asylum seekers spend as much as 12 hours a day waiting in line for food that is sometimes moldy. The majority of the camps residents are Syrian, Iraqi and Afghan refugees, many of whom have suffered wartime traumas that are then exacerbated by the overcrowded and static conditions, they reported. Katie's trip follows claims that her long-term relationship with Hollywood actor Jamie Foxx has come to an end. Jamie allegedly declared that he was 'single' at a February Oscars party, but since then, neither has addressed any break up publicly. It's been just over two years since Katie and Jamie went public with their notoriously secretive romance, after years of speculation. Last November, there was speculation that they were planning a secret wedding in Paris, despite never confirming an engagement. The director of the Elton John biopic Rocketman has hit back at claims that a naked sex scene between lead actor Taron Egerton and Richard Madden has been cut. Rumours were rife that the scene had been removed from the film in order to maintain a lower age rating for the film when it is released. However director Dexter Fletcher has now insisted that the film is yet to be completed, before adding that the biopic will still be a 'no holds barred' production. No truth! The director of the Elton John biopic Rocketman has hit back at claims that a naked sex scene between lead actor Taron Egerton and Richard Madden has been cut Amid the speculation, Dexter took to Twitter to address the speculation, writing: Seeing much speculation about ROCKETMAN!! Thats good! Its still unfinished so its nothing but rumours. It has and always will be the no holds barred, musical fantasy that Paramount and producers passionately support and believe in. Rumours surrounding the scene suggested that Paramount Pictures demanded that Dexter and producer Matthew Vaughn cut a 40-second scene that shows Taron, and Richard, cast as his one-time lover and manager John Reid, writhing on a bed. Speculation: Rumours were rife that the scene had been removed from the film in order to maintain a lower age rating for the film when it is released It was previously reported that Paramount had been forced to cut the scene so that it fitted into the American PG 13 rating, which is similar to a British 12A rating. A source working on the film, said: Two guys have a naked cuddle to express their love for each other and that will be reduced to a fully dressed warm hello. The world knows Eltons gay. Its no secret, Elton told the producers that he didn't want anything hidden during the portrayal of his life, he previously said: 'Tell it all. Go as R-rated as you need to. 'No holds barred': However director Dexter Fletcher has now insisted that the film is yet to be completed, before adding that the biopic will still be a 'no holds barred' production Sir Elton, 71, is working as a co-producer on the film, alongside his husband David Furnish, 55. The film shot scenes in London and also stars Bryce Dallas Howard and Steven Mackintosh as his parents. Director Dexter previously told Daily Mail's Baz Bamigboye: 'It's about Elton navigating personal and family relationships. Lovers: Rumours surrounding the scene suggested that Paramount Pictures demanded that Dexter and producer Matthew Vaughn cut a 40-second scene that shows Taron, and Richard, cast as his one-time lover and manager John Reid, writhing on a bed 'He looks for love in all the wrong places, he abuses himself with drugs and booze yet he's a genius who has survived for over half a century in showbusiness.' Producer Matthew Vaughn added: 'This film is going to make people's jaws hit the ground, Elton just said "Tell it all. Go as R-rated as you need to". And we do just that, with his blessing. The flaws and the genius are all there.' Although the movie, written by Lee Hall, is based on fact, some of Eltons story has been fictionalised, while Welsh-born Egerton does his own singing. The film is slated for release in the UK on May 24 2019, and in the USA on May 31. Poldark star Aidan Turner has revealed the incredibly surprising secret behind his famously chiselled physique. The hunky actor, 35, who has set pulses racing as Captain Ross in the BBC drama since 2015, spoke candidly to Dogs Monthly magazine about his fitness regime, admitting that it was actually dog walking which keeps him in shape. The Irish star, who left fans swooning over his ripped torso as he scythed the fields along the English coast on the series, revealed that he always jumps at the chance to walk his girlfriend Caitlin FitzGeralds dog Charlie in a bid to maintain his rippling physique. Not what you would expect! Poldark star Aidan Turner, 35, has revealed the incredibly surprising secret behind his famously chiselled physique Aidan revealed: 'Poldark has been very good to me and I have had some really great parts in my career already with, I hope, many more to come. 'It means that I also have to take care of myself at least until they stop wanting me to take my shirt off. 'One of the best exercise tips I have is to take a dog for a walk,' he confessed. While his tips for staying in shape may bring delight to those looking for a far less strenuous exercise regime, it is clear that dog walking is not the only exercise on Aidan's list. 'The best exercise tip': The hunky actor admitted that it was actually dog walking which keeps him in shape Fitness: The Irish star revealed that he always jumps at the chance to walk his girlfriend Caitlin FitzGeralds dog Charlie in a bid to maintain his rippling physique In an interview with the Sunday Times last year Aidan revealed that he also fasts until 7pm and endures gruelling workouts twice a day. Meanwhile, on the personal front, Adian met his American actress girlfriend Caitlin when the pair played lovers in the fantasy film The Man Who Killed Hitler And Then The Bigfoot. The couple were then spotted making a rare public appearance at the Hollywood premiere of their film earlier this year. The Hollywood blockbuster sees Aidan play an American soldier who must leave Caitlin's character to embark on a dangerous mission during the Second World War. Popular role: Aidan has set pulses racing as Captain Ross in the BBC drama since 2015 Tough: In an interview with the Sunday Times last year Aidan revealed that he also fasts until 7pm and endures gruelling workouts twice a day The BBC heartthrob, who recently finished filming in the seaside resort of Cornwall, is set to return to our screens later this year for series five of the popular Cornish saga. Aidan recently revealed he would 'love' to take on more theatre roles after starring in hot television series Poldark. He told The Evening Standard in July 2018: 'Id love to do more but it is finding time, there is one more year left of Poldark to do and then were open. Victoria lead Jenna Coleman is treated like a real queen on set, her co-star has revealed. Speaking to The Mirror, Kate Fleetwood - who makes her debut on Sunday as Victoria's half-sister Feodora - admitted Jenna 'sets a really high bar' for the cast, and praised the actress for her professionalism and leadership. It comes as Victoria makes its long-awaited return on Sunday after it's last series aired in 2017, and will see Her Majesty and her husband Albert at breaking point at tensions arise in their marriage. Regal: Victoria lead Jenna Coleman is treated like a real queen on set, her co-star has revealed Kate said: 'Jenna is a great leader. She is supremely prepared, organised, professional. She sets a really high bar for everybody. 'She totally pulls it off. Jenna has a huge amount of authority. 'She's definitely the monarch but she has such humility as well. I have really enjoyed watching her work and learning from her.' Funny: Actress Kate Fleetwood - who plays Victoria's half-sister Feodora - praised her co-star in an interview with The Mirror, adding she commands the set with her professionalism Kate's praise for her co-star comes as the pair are set to be at odds on-screen in the new series, as Feodora makes a dramatic arrival in England after being left destitute in her native Germany. While the court quickly warms to this new princess, Victoria remains apprehensive, having always lived in her siblings shadow throughout their childhood. Meanwhile the new series will also feature plenty of international conflict, with the first episode set to document the 1848 February Revolution. Awaited: The revelations come as Victoria makes her long-awaited return to TV on Sunday, with the third series set to document rising attentions between Her Majesty and Prince Albert But the real drama will come from rising tensions between Victoria and Albert, which Jenna teased during an appearance on Friday's Lorraine. She explained: 'Victoria and Albert I think having very different minds, temperaments, personalities, Albert being very logical and Victoria being very temperamental and emotionally led. 'We see them kind of more separate than they were before theres definitely things that they cant seem to work out which causes a big marital rift, I suppose.' Victoria returns on Sunday 24th March at 9pm on ITV. He's the former Married At First Sight star who is working hard at kick-starting his stand-up comedy career. And Ryan Gallagher, 30, was back in the spotlight when he attended the Daylesford Polo at the Mingela Polo Club in Drummond, Melbourne on Saturday. Clad in a striking beige cowboy hat and sunglasses, the jocular hunk was spotted reading entertaining commentary from a clipboard in front of the VIP crowd. Not his first rodeo! MAFS star Ryan Gallagher, 30, was back in the spotlight when he attended the Daylesford Polo at the Mingela Polo Club in Drummond, Melbourne on Saturday. He completed his track-side ensemble with a white polo shirt, black jeans and a pair of beige suede boots. Joining Ryan at the sun-soaked event was Bachelor In Paradise star Laurina Fleure, who looked typically glamorous in a plunging white jumpsuit. She covered her eyes from the sun's glare with a pair of dark shades, while completing her sleek look with a pastel pink Bvlgari handbag. Taking centre stage: Clad in a striking beige cowboy hat and sunglasses, the jocular hunk was spotted reading entertaining commentary from a clipboard in front of the VIP crowd. Suave in suede! He completed his track-side ensemble with a white polo shirt, black jeans and a pair of beige suede boots A delight in white! Joining Ryan at the sun-soaked event was Bachelor In Paradise star Laurina Fleure, who looked typically glamorous in a plunging white jumpsuit Elsewhere, fellow Bachelorette rejects Bill Goldsmith and Robert Colangelo were spotted partying inside the marquee alongside Bachelor 2018 contestant Aleksandra Sekuloska. Bill is set to return to screens on the upcoming season of Bachelor In Paradise, which is set to hit screens later this month. Former Real Housewives Of Melbourne star Susie Mclean was also spotted at the event posing up a storm in a baby blue two-piece top and skirt. Elsewhere, fellow Bachelorette rejects Bill Goldsmith (second right) and Robert Colangelo (far right) were spotted partying inside the marquee alongside Bachelor 2018 contestant Aleksandra Sekuloska (second left) Beautiful in blue! Former Real Housewives Of Melbourne star Susie Mclean was also spotted at the event posing up a storm in a baby blue two-piece top and skirt She completed her look with a polka-dot hair scarf in blue and white, and a pair of sunglasses. Neighbors star Sharon Johal certainly turned heads with her track-side ensemble, donning a lilac jacquard top with bubble sleeves and a matching mini-skirt. She accentuated her eyes with dark kohl liner and added height to her frame with a pair of fuchsia heels. Lovely in lilac! Neighbors star Sharon Johal certainly turned heads with her track-side ensemble, donning a lilac jacquard top with bubble sleeves and a matching mini-skirt Caitlyn Jenner got stylish while out for a dinner date in Malibu on Friday. The former Olympian, 69, sported some open toed Yeezy slides while walking through the sunny weather with her partner, Sophia Hutchins, 22. After just returning from a brief trip to Greece, the duo continued to spend time together. No food left behind: Caitlyn Jenner, 69, stepped out for a romantic dinner date with Sophia Hutchins, 22, in Malibu on Friday She did it first: Kim Kardashian had the same funky grey shoes on in July in Hollywood For the romantic meal, Caitlyn rocked all grey in a soft looking sweater with skinny jeans. On her feet, she sported matching Yeezy slides, designed by her 38-year-old step daughter, Kim Kardashian's husband, Kanye West, 41. The reality star carried the couple's leftovers in one hand and a black purse in another. Next to her, Sophia opted for less comfortable shoes, wearing black pumps. The Pepperdine graduate's long white blonde hair was pin straight, falling over her all black outfit. Jenner and Hutchins looked at ease as they made their way out of the restaurant on the Southern California coast. Inseparable: Jenner and Hutchins looked at ease as they made their way out of the restaurant on the Southern California coast One night prior, Caitlyn headed out for another Malibu dinner, this time with her eldest daughter, Kendall Jenner, 23. Together, they enjoyed seafood at celebrity hot spot, Nobu, overlooking the ocean. Kendall looked at her model best as she strutted out of the popular venue, apparently with her leftovers in a paper bag. She was dressed head to toe in black, with tight-fitting leather-style skinny pants showcasing her long limbs. Her dark tresses were styled in a loose updo, with tendrils framing her exceptionally pretty facial features. Father daughter dinner: Caitlyn and her daughter Kendall Jenner, 23, were spotted dining at Nobu in Malibu on Thursday night And prior to her two lavish meals in California, the I Am Cait star jetted off to Greece with her blonde companion. While abroad, they visited a series of historic landmarks. Hutchins, who is also transgender, wrote on Instagram that 'Athens was great!' and that she was 'so sad it was only for 24 hours...we will be back.' According to the model, her and Caitlyn are not dating, but are rather just partners. Amid much speculation, she opened up about the nature of her relationship with Jenner while chatting with The Hidden Truth Show last fall. 'I would not use the word "girlfriend," I would not use the word, "dating." We're partners,' she said. The two women, who me a few years ago via their makeup artist and hairstylist, now live together and appear to be going strong. Advertisement Alessandra Ambrosio has a new swimwear line to plug and she is not shy about doing so. Nearly every day the Brazilian model has been posting images from her GAL Floripa line as she spoils her followers. This weekend, the 37-year-old Victoria's Secret vet shared several fresh shots taken on a beach at sunset. This girl sure has her poses down: Here the Fendi model lies on one side as she puts her hand up to her head The 37-year-old star, who has two children, was stretched out on a beach in Brazil where she was born and raised. The siren has a deep tan and is in the best shape of her life. This bombshell - who modeled for Victoria's Secret for many years - is excited about the line GAL Floripa. She launched the fun collection, which has the tagline 'Created in the Magic Island,' earlier this month with her sister Aline and one of her best friends. 'We were always in a swimsuit going from one beach to another and always wanted to have a bikini shop there one day. Sitting pretty: The mother of two added, 'We need to love who we are because that's all we have anyway. If we don't love who we are, who are we going to love?' 'That was our dream when we were 18.' And it's for all shapes: 'Everyone should feel good wearing a swimsuit because it shows your body,' she said. 'You shouldn't be self-conscious about it. We all have different shapes and need to embrace that. We need to love who we are because that's all we have anyway. If we don't love who we are, who are we going to love?' In one of the latest images, Alessandra has on a flirty one piece that hugs her curves just right while showing off a peek of cleavage thanks to a low neckline and a plunging front. Dreamy: 'You shouldn't be self-conscious about it. We all have different shapes and need to embrace that,' said the very slender supermodel There are thin straps holding the suit up and also a few across her body. The suit comes up high on the hips making the model's legs look longer. The stunner has fun modeling the suit as she stands next to a tree while looking down with a little pout. The cover girl is also seen running around on boulders while the sun sets. In earlier photos she was seen in both a peach colored one piece as well as a bikini. Small white shells hung from the strings on the bikini lending a beachy feel. Alessandra worked with her sister Aline Ambrosio and best friend Gisele Coria and they are manufacturing the product in Brazil. 'We always had this dream. We grew up in Florianopolis, which is an island south of Brazil, and swim was always like our second skin,' the model told People. She also said it's important to be happy in your suit. 'We work all year long to take those vacations and we take those vacations and we go somewhere nice and warm and we need to feel as good as it gets.' The name of their brand is a combination of the letters in their names (Gisele+ALessandra+ALine) and a tribute to their favorite beach spot they told the site. Their Galactic Sun collection features one-piece and two-piece swimsuits. There is a '70s-inspired 'out of this world' feel. Alessandra's last swimwear line is Ale by Alessandra. 'It was so much fun to create the collection. We chose our favorite cuts for the swimwear and from there chose colors and fabrics,' said Alessandra. 'We chose comfortable fabrics that had a little bit of shimmer and they're a little bit iridescent,' she said. 'We have four different types of bottoms and five different types of tops that you can kind of mix and match and just whatever makes your body feel comfortable and gives the nice shape that you're looking for'. And she revealed the inspiration for the name of the swim line. 'I was like re-watching one of my favorite movies, Bernardo Bertolucci's Stealing Beauty, and this song came up [on the soundtrack]. And there's this part where it says "the galactic sun" and I was like "Oh my God!" So I called them it was super late and I was like "I got the name for the collection!" And they were so excited and loved it,' she said. Prices ranging from $88 to 228. The Sydney Opera House is set to turn green, along with other landmarks across the country, as they light up to celebrate everything Irish on St Patrick's Day. It will be the 10th year of the Opera House "going green" but other sites, including the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, have signed up for the first time to celebrate the day, Tourism Ireland says. The theme for this year's parade in Sydney is "Back to Our Roots", with thousands expected to join festivities around the city. Live music and Irish dancers will set the scene at The Rocks on Sunday while the official parade will begin at 11am at First Fleet Park and conclude at Dawes Point Park. "It's a day for everyone, you don't have to be Irish to attend or enjoy the festival," said Karen Murphy, president of the Sydney St Patrick's Day organisation. Referring to the very difficult time recently, Mr Mahmood said the two countries had limped back from the brink. New Delhi: Pakistan high commissioner Sohail Mahmood on Friday said lack of engagement between India and Pakistan creates dangerous vacuum and serious risks in the relationship even as he hoped for an end to the long winter and the on-set of a new spring in the troubled ties between the two neighbours. He was speaking at a reception at the Pakistan high commission on Friday, ahead of Pakistans National Day on March 23. The Indian government boycotted the reception. There was high drama outside the Pakistan high commission gates before the function began, with personnel in plain-cloth-es persuading arriving guests to return, citing the official boycott. Meanwhile, referring to the events of last month and warning that coercive measures (by India) would not work, Mr Mahmood pitched for diplomacy and dialogue to address mutual concerns and long-standing disputes. Referring to the very difficult time recently, Mr Mahmood said the two countries had limped back from the brink. He pitched for consolidation of de-escalation and stabilising ties against further shocks. He also hailed Pakistan PM Imran Khans recent decision to return captured IAF pilot Wg Cdr Abhinandan to India and talks on the Kartarpur corridor as steps in the positive direction. A prayer service to honour the victims and lives lost in the New Zealand terror attack is expected to be held in Queensland. The Islamic Council of Queensland and the Council of Imams Queensland have invited Muslims and non-Muslims to join them on Sunday at the Islamic College of Brisbane. "We can only defeat hate when we come together and support each other on the basis of our humanity," a social media post advertising the event said. "Let us unite, pray for the victims and the safety of their families." Queensland Senator Fraser Anning has more egg on his face as the prime minister moves to censure him for victim-blaming Muslims over the New Zealand terror attack. Scott Morrison announced his government would formally disapprove the independent for blaming the Islamic community for the New Zealand mosque shootings. Mr Morrison is also in talks with senators Mathias Cormann and Penny Wong about a bipartisan motion when parliament returns in April. "These comments are appalling and they're ugly and they have no place in Australia," he told reporters in Sydney on Saturday. "In the Australian parliament also. He should be, frankly, ashamed of himself." Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said Senator Anning was "chasing a headline" and questioned whether he'd made "Australians less safe overseas". "That's another reason not to give this fool any more oxygen," he said. More than 300,000 people have signed a change.org petition calling for Senator Anning's expulsion from parliament. The motion comes amid a 17-year-old throwing an egg at Senator Anning's head at a speaking event in Melbourne's southeast on Saturday. Vision live streamed on social media showed Senator Anning punching the teenager twice before others pinned the youth down on the ground, and police arrived. The teenager was arrested but was released pending further inquiries, and no other people had been arrested on Saturday night. Mosques will open across Victoria to allow Muslims to share their faith instead of turning people away despite shooting attacks at Islamic places of worship in New Zealand. More than 20 mosques are taking part in the Islamic Council of Victoria's annual event on Sunday which welcomes visitors of all race, religion and gender to step inside. Visitors will be able to meet Muslims, go on guided tours, take hijab tutorials or have henna tattoo art, enjoy sausage sizzles and even discuss Islamic beliefs. "Sharing our cultural heritage is part of celebrating what it means to be truly Australian," ICV president Mohamed Mohideen said ahead of the day. "It is about celebrating the benefits of our multicultural society which has come about as a result of the successful integration of migrants into the Australian community." Among the events, Australian academic Susan Carland will take part in a conversation with Benevolence Australia founder Saara Sabbagh at the suburban Melbourne venue. "During this time of grief with the recent tragic incident in New Zealand, let us come together to strengthen our shared humanity," Benevolence Australia stated online. The Victorian event is going ahead despite the shooting attacks at two mosques in Christchurch on Friday, which left at least 49 people dead. Police will also attend the mosques to take part in activities and to patrol the venues. The Victorian Multicultural Commission and Victorian Government and Australian Federation of Islamic Councils support the statewide event. Following the court appearance of an Australian accused of carrying out a deadly shooting at two New Zealand mosques, New Zealand police may soon lay out the involvement of two others arrested after the attack. Brenton Tarrant, 28, on Saturday appeared in Christchurch District Court on a charge of murder after an unprecedented killing spree across two mosques left 49 worshippers dead and dozens of others, including children, badly injured. Police have been piecing together what's been described as a complex event and are on Sunday expected to give further details, including what had since happened to other two people arrested on Friday. A fourth person taken into custody has since been released. Officials say 41 people were killed at the Masjid Al Noor mosque on Deans Avenue, before gunfire broke out at Linwood Masjid six kilometres away, leaving seven more dead. One later died in hospital. Dozens remain in hospital, with at least 12 - including a four-year-old girl - critical. The attack, confirmed as an act of terror by officials, is the worst shooting in the country's history and has seen its threat level raised to high for the first time. Police say they will continue guarding mosques around the country until further notice. Helicopters have been hovering overhead in Christchurch since, while heavily-armed officers patrol streets. Former NSW personal trainer Tarrant, wearing a tunic and handcuffs n his first court appearance, did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody without plea until April 5 "There is one charge of murder brought at the moment, it is reasonable to assume that there will be others," the presiding judge noted. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinta Ardern earlier told media there had been "one prime suspected perpetrator" but said the public's safety was not being taken for granted. "Police are insuring they include an investigation to give assurance there are no ongoing threats," she said. "A complex and comprehensive investigation is under way." Landing in Christchurch on Saturday, Ardern held a series of meetings to assure the Muslim community their safety was top priority. "This is not New Zealand," she told a group at the city's refugee centre. "This act of terror was brought to our shores and rained down upon us." Questions have been raised about why none of those arrested had appeared on a watchlist of New Zealand or Australian security agencies. Ardern, meanwhile, also vowed New Zealand would be changing its gun laws, after it was discovered Tarrant was licensed and had five guns, some modified. A series of vigils have now been scheduled around the country, while flowers were being left at cordons near the attack sites in Christchurch. "If this evil thinks we will stop going to our mosque here or stop doing our worship to our god, Allah, we cannot ever stop," Linwood mosque Imam Ibrahim Abdelhalim said. "We are part of the New Zealand community." Muslim community members have also raised concerns the time taken to remove the bodies from the mosques would comprise the burial process. The hope would be that police had removed the bodies by the end of Saturday, Ardern said. Leaders across the world, including Queen Elizabeth, British Prime Minister Theresa May, Pope Francis and United States president Donald Trump have sent condolences and condemned the attack. He broke his own run metres record, busted six tackles and set up the match sealing four pointer in round one, but North Queensland lock Jason Taumalolo still isn't content. The former Dally M Medal winner was magnificent in the Cowboys' 24-12 win over St George Illawarra in Townsville on Saturday but played down the significance of his round one display "I wouldn't say it's a statement it's still round one, I got a bit lucky there but it would have been nice to score a try," Taumalolo told AAP. The Tongan captain was referring to the try he handed to five-eighth Te Maire Martin, when he had only Dragons Fullback Gareth Widdop to beat after already breaking three tackles. "I thought about putting on a chip and chase but then didn't want to get sprayed in the review on Monday." Taumalolo's performance was the perfect way for Paul Green's side to start their transition following the retirement of Johnathan Thurston. The $10 million dollar man ran for 286 metres, beating his own previous personal best to take the Cowboys to a 24 -12 win. The man who replaced the original "JT" in the No. 7 jersey, Michael Morgan was in awe. "He was unreal, he is a very special player not just his work rate the things he can do in the open field," Morgan said. "For me I love sitting back and watching him go forward." Taumalolo's new running partner Josh McGuire also did his part in the round one win; the ex-Bronco forward getting through 154 metres of his own. A noted enforcer, McGuire's happy he no longer has to get in front of Taumalolo, in a game situation at least. "I don't have to tackle him now!" McGuire laughed. "But also I have to tackle him at training every week now, so it's a glass half empty half full kind of thing." The Cowboys "bash brothers" will face a tough test this week when they come up against McGuire's former side on Friday. Two men have died on NSW's roads within hours in separate single-vehicle crashes. A 46-year-old man crashed his van into the median strip on the M1 motorway just south of the town of Brooklyn, in Sydney's northwest, about 5pm on Saturday. He was trapped in the vehicle and died at the scene. Earlier in the day, just before 11am, another man was killed when his ute left the road and rolled in Byrock, about 79km southeast of Bourke. The 24-year-old was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene. His two male passengers suffered minor injuries. As families and friends of victims of a deadly shooting in New Zealand mosques look to bury their dead, residents across the country have come together to mourn. Police cordons still remain in place around two mosques in the city of Christchurch after a gunman opened fire during Friday prayers, killing 49 and wounding dozens of others. As police removed bodies from the mosques and the names of victims began to emerge, thousands attended vigils across the country on Saturday night. Kiwis gathered in Auckland, Hamilton, Dunedin and Tauranga to show support, with more vigils planned for coming days. In Christchurch, person after person arrived at the cordon near the first shooting site, flowers piling up as they paid their respects. Nearby, at Hagley College, minutes from where the first gunfire broke out at Al Noor mosque, killing 41, the city's Muslim community were gathering from the start of the day. Among them was the Linwood mosque's imam, Ibrahim Abdul Halim, who was leading prayers when fire broke out and whose wife has since been discharged from hospital after being shot in the arm. He called for unity and said the attack would never stop his community from worshipping. "We still believe this country accepts all religions," he said. "We are part of the New Zealand community." His son, Mohammed Abdelhalim, described to Radio NZ losing a number of childhood friends, three with young families, in the attack. "We were ... family people with no malice, no aggression and nothing but love for this country," he said. "We just want our loved ones back now. We want to lay them to rest." More stories of heroism during the attacks have emerged since. Abdul Aziz, 48, is being applauded after it emerged he managed to scare the shooter away from the Linwood mosque to protect dozens inside, including his four sons. And former Masjid Al Noor president Mohamed Jama recounted for Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who is visiting the city to give her assurance the community would be looked after, how he had tapped the gunman on the shoulder as he entered the mosque. At Christchurch Hospital, families remained waiting for news about those still in hospital, with at least 12 - including a four-year-old girl - critical. Police say mosques will remain under heavy guard until further notice, while New Zealand's Jewish synagogues were closed for the sabbath for the first time on Saturday. The alleged attacker, 28-year Australian Brenton Tarrant, appeared in court on Saturday and entered no plea on a charge or murder. Police are expected to give an update on Sunday on two others who were arrested. Pepper spray and the dog squad were called in to break up a wild party of about 300 people at an inner-Melbourne park. Police were called to the Westgate Park over a noise complaint about 1.30am on Sunday and arrived to find amplifiers and DJs playing music for the rabble. Officers pepper sprayed three people who ran away, a 20-year-old Wangaratta woman was taken to hospital after being hit on the head with a bottle and the 21-year-old Northcote man who organised the party was spoken to and released pending inquiries. Police are aware of a small number of white extremists in NSW and are keeping a vigilant watch on them after the massacre in New Zealand, the state's opposition leader says. An Australian man, Brenton Tarrant from Grafton in NSW, remains the only person charged with murder over the Christchurch mosques mass shootings that has claimed the lives of 50 people. The 28-year-old 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. However, questions have been raised why he did not appear on a watchlist of New Zealand or Australian security agencies. NSW Opposition Leader Michael Daley said the police minister and police commissioner had told him in briefings on Saturday there were a small number of white supremacists and extremists in the state. "The numbers are not growing to a degree that would alarm them but they are keeping a very vigilant watch on them," he told Sky News on Sunday. "Extremism in all its forms is a one-way street and we have to stamp it out. "We cannot tolerate violence like this, it doesn't matter whether they're white supremacists or other sorts of extremists, we have to reject extremism outright." The prime minister wants independent senator Fraser Anning to face "the full force of the law" over his comments the Islamic community was to blame for the New Zealand mosque massacre. And New Zealand's representative in Australia says the Queensland senator's comments were atrocious. The government and Labor are planning a bipartisan motion condemning Senator Anning when parliament returns in April. However, Scott Morrison went further on Sunday, when asked if a parliamentary motion was enough, saying: "I think the full force of the law should be applied to Senator Anning." He previously said the comments the senator made were appalling, ugly and had no place in Australia. New Zealand High Commissioner Annette King said her country rejected absolutely Senator Anning's sentiment. "We just condemn what he said and I'm absolutely delighted that his comments were condemned from the very top of government here in Australia and the people of Australia," she told reporters in Canberra. However, she said it was up to Australians to decide if he was fit to be an elected representative. A change.org petition calling for Mr Anning's expulsion from parliament has amassed almost 750,000 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," it states. 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. The teenager has since been released pending further inquiries. He posted a video on social media saying: "Don't egg politicians, you get tackled by 30 bogans at the same time - I learnt the hard way." Senator Anning used his Facebook page to thank those who had supported him after the incident. He made several more anti-Islamic posts and complained about "the backlash of the establishment media and globalist politicians". He also said Twitter had banned him from posting there for breaching the platform's community standards. Senator Anning came to the Senate in late 2017 as a replacement for One Nation's Malcolm Roberts after he was found to have been a dual citizen and therefore ineligible for election. While Senator Anning ran on the One Nation ticket at the 2016 poll, he quit the party minutes before being sworn in after falling out with leader Pauline Hanson. He was roundly condemned after invoking the phrase "final solution" in his first speech to parliament - a reference to the Holocaust - and again after attending a far-right rally in Melbourne where participants made Nazi salutes. The message may act as a further impetus towards de-escalation by the two countries. New Delhi: On a day when India officially boycotted the Pakistan National Day reception at the Pakistan high commission (PHC) in New Delhi on Friday evening, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a surprise move, sent a message to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan, saying it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence. PM Modi sent the message as a greeting on the eve of Pakistans National Day on March 23. Government sources said it was customary to send a greeting on such occasions. PM Modis message was tweeted by Pakistan PM Imran Khan. PM Modis message to Mr Khan comes just weeks after the air forces of the two countries were involved in a dogfight in the skies on February 27 following the IAF strike on a JeM terror camp at Balakot in Pakistans KPK province on February 26. The message may act as a further impetus towards de-escalation by the two countries. India on Friday officially boycotted the Pakistan National Day reception, ahead of the Pakistan National Day on March 23, on the grounds that the PHC had invited (Kashmiri separatist) Hurriyat representatives to the function. Interestingly, the Pulwa-ma terror attack and the Pakistani Air Force retaliation on February 27 to Indias air-strikes against JeM terror targets in Pakistan on February 26 were not cited as reasons for the boycott. India has decided not to send any representative to attend (the reception). This decision was taken after Pakistan decided to invite Hurriyat representatives. Any attempt by the Pakistan leadership to engage with Hurriyat representatives will not be taken lightly, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. He added that the Indian high commission in Islamabad will boycott similar events in Islamabad on Saturday. However, eyebrows are being raised on why the invitation to the Hurriyat was being cited as the reason, considering that Pakistan has been inviting various Hurriyat leaders for the function over the years. Despite that India had been sending representatives at the level of minister of state (MoS) to the PHC National Day Reception in the past few years. Sources said the current environment of Indo-Pak tensions did not make it feasible for any Indian official participation in the PHC Reception this time. Speculation is also rife that Pulwama or the recent Indo-Pak military tensions were not cited as the reason for the Indian official boycott since there is a possibility that Pakistan may continue to participate in Indian official functions. The MEA also rejected the recent Pakistani criticism of the Samjhauta Express (Indian) court verdict, saying New Delhi respected the verdict of the court. On Pakistani criticism of the Samjhauta verdict, the MEA said it reflected lack of understanding on the Pakistani side about the functioning of the Indian judiciary, adding that due process was followed by the court in India. The MEA said there was no cooperation from Pakistan on serving of summons to witnesses in the case during the trial, adding that the Pakistani reaction was to deflect the attention from the failure of Pakistan to bring perpetrators to justice of terror crimes committed in India (but plotted and planned in Pakistan like the Mumbai terror attacks of 2008). The federal government will talk with social media companies to make sure the tool can't be used by terrorists in the wake of the Christchurch attack. Fifty people died in the massacre on Friday at two mosques on New Zealand's South Island and about 36 people are in hospital. A 17-minute live video of the alleged attacker - Australian Brenton Harrison Tarrant - arming himself and entering a mosque where he started shooting was uploaded and shared online. The 28-year-old also posted a 74-page "manifesto" online before the attack. Leaders and police from both Australia and New Zealand pleaded with people and the media to not share or watch the video. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Facebook has previously suspended "these sort of" livestreams. "Assurances were given that ... it could avoid this and clearly it hasn't," Mr Morrison told reporters in Sydney on Sunday. He said there needed to be some "very real" discussions about how such content could exist on social media. "We will be seeking to get assurances from the social media companies about their capabilities to ensure that this tool cannot be used by terrorists," Mr Morrison said. The prime minister conceded it was "very difficult" to prevent images and videos from spreading once they have already been uploaded onto social media. Tarrant, from Grafton in NSW, is the only person charged with murder over the attack and has been remanded in custody until April 5. They are politically polar when it comes to policy, but a handful of Queensland crossbenchers have found common ground in how they recognise First Nations Australians in state parliament. Acknowledging traditional owners at the start of each sitting day became customary in 2007, when former Labor MP Mike Reynolds was Speaker. Members typically stand for the prayer that comes before the recognition, and then return to their seats. But One Nation member Steven Andrew, Greens MP Michael Berkman, and Sandy Bolton, the Independent MP for Noosa, are staying on their feet. "What does it cost to be courteous and what does it cost to have respect? It costs nothing, and for me to do that is no different to the respect we should have for any of our other cultures," Mr Andrew told AAP. Mr Berkman will this week write to members across the political spectrum, encouraging them to stand. "Symbolic gestures won't fix the crises in health, housing, over-incarceration and intergenerational trauma, but without respect for traditional owners we won't get anywhere," he said. It comes after he wrote to Speaker Curtis Pitt, proposing he deliver the acknowledgement standing, rather than seated. In his response, Mr Pitt said he had noticed some MPs were not silent during acknowledgement, but that he was reluctant to change how symbolic gestures were made. "To make one change would invite requests for other symbolic acts on different matters or changes or omission to existing ones," he wrote to Mr Berkman. "I do not wish to reopen debate on the merits of various symbolic acts at this time." However, Ms Bolton says broader talks about which traditions are included and how they are carried out going forward is needed. "It's not about saying anyone has to do anything," she said. "(But) I would like to think that it would encourage a respectful discussion on traditional rituals that we have not only in parliament, but across Queensland." Dozens of Victorian right wing extremists are on terror watchlists, and monitoring of the so-called alt-right has escalated after the deadly attack in New Zealand by an Australian. Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton on Sunday said police were keeping tabs on the extremists, particularly online. "After Friday we have intensified our monitoring of the alt-right individuals within Victoria," Mr Ashton said. "We've been monitoring also a range of individuals since Friday, we're just making sure we're not seeing any increased levels of anxiety around any sort of action and certainly to date we haven't seen that." Mr Ashton said he spoke with his federal counterpart about monitoring online rhetoric that might constitute a federal offence. "These threats can emerge very quickly and often from very little information or intelligence beforehand," he said. "You do the best you can, we make sure we're plugged into what's happening in the intelligence arena, particularly with our federal partners." Mr Ashton was at Preston Mosque on Sunday alongside Premier Daniel Andrews as part of a pre-organised, statewide open mosque day. Anti-immigration white nationalists violently leapt on a teenager who egged Queensland Senator Fraser Anning at an event in suburban Melbourne on Saturday. Among them was convicted criminal Neil Erikson who is currently going through the courts again. Mr Ashton said he's directed his officers to go through footage of the incident in its entirety to consider whether assault charges and breach of bail offences might also come into play. West Australian Premier Mark McGowan has vowed to do everything possible to prevent the same "abhorrent act of violence" in New Zealand happen on Australian shores. While meeting with Islamic leaders, Mr McGowan on Sunday condemned the terrorist attack in Christchurch two days earlier and urged the community to protect diversity. "What an abhorrent act of violence it was that took place on Friday. We must, all of us, condemn that sort of violence, and do everything we possibly can to prevent that sort of violence occurring here in Australia and especially here in Western Australia," he told reporters. He noted that extra vigilance was in place at the state's mosques to prevent a similar attack to the Christchurch one, in which 50 people died. Social media giants Google and Facebook will face hefty penalties if they breach privacy laws and fail to keep data safe. Prime Minister Scott Morrison will announce the penalties, which will run into hundreds of millions of dollars, on Sunday, News Corp Australia reports. The current maximum penalty is up to $2.1 million. The crackdown comes after disturbing video of the Christchurch mosque gunman was livestreamed and shared despite the efforts of police and governments to have it taken down. "They have had the smarts to build the technology and rake in the revenues, they can use these same smarts to keep Australians safe," Mr Morrison told The Sunday Telegraph. The heftier penalties and new powers for the Information Commissioner are in the pipeline if the coalition wins the federal election and will bring Australia into the stringent privacy laws enacted in the European Union. The party of new Dr Congo President Felix Tshisekedi suffered a crushing defeat in Friday's senate election A police officer was killed in DR Congo on Saturday as violence broke out after the crushing defeat of new President Felix Tshisekedi's party in the previous day's senate election. Separately, presidential pardons from Tshisekedi released an opposition leader and a rights activist jailed during the presidency of Joseph Kabila. Tshisekedi was sworn in on January 24 after a bitterly disputed election mired by fraud allegations, replacing Kabila who yielded power after 18 turbulent years at the helm of sub-Saharan Africa's biggest country. But Kabila has retained significant influence as his Common Front for Congo (FCC) coalition wields overwhelming control of the lower house of parliament. The pro-Kabila FCC extended its parliamentary dominance on Friday when it won "a very large majority of over two-thirds" of the country's more than 100 senate seats, the FCC said in a statement. The size of the majority means the FCC will be able to make changes to the country's constitution or pursue legal proceedings against the current head of state. Locally elected politicians in the country's provincial assemblies elect the senators in each region and some of them have been accused of having sold their votes. - Local politicians targeted - Tshisekedi's UDPS, the Democratic Republic of Congo's largest and oldest opposition party, did not win a single senate seat in the central Kasai Oriental province, of which Mbuji-Mayi is the capital. A policeman was killed in Mbuji-Mayi in the resulting violence, according to several sources. Governor Alphonse Ngoyi Kasanji, who was elected as an FCC senator, said that "UDPS fighters this morning conducted punitive expeditions in the residence of some provincial deputies". "They looted, destroyed and torched houses and vehicles. FCC MP Felicita Ngalula lost all her possessions. Her bodyguard was killed", he tweeted. Civil society member Jimmy Bashile also said "angry UDPS fighters" had raided Ngalula's home. "They arrived and ransacked everything. A police officer guarding her was killed," Bashile told AFP. The police confirmed the death of one of their officers. The UDPS also held protests on Friday night and Saturday in the capital Kinshasa, where the party also failed to win a single senate seat despite having 12 MPs in the provincial assembly. Tshisekedi won a surprise victory in the presidential election held on December 30 after three postponements, beating opposition leader Martin Fayulu, whom pre-vote polls had predicted would prevail. Fayulu says the result was a stitch-up between Tshisekedi and Kabila. Nearly two months after his inauguration, Tshisekedi has been unable to push through his choice of prime minister as his party only garnered 32 seats out of 500 in the National Assembly. Kabila, who as a former president has become a senator for life, meanwhile gathered the leaders of the FCC coalition's 18 member parties at his farm last month and pressed them to sign a loyalty pledge. - Political prisoners freed - After his election, Tshisekedi pledged to release political prisoners from Kabila's reign. Opposition leader Franck Diongo was released after two years in prison The former leader of a minor opposition party, Franck Diongo, was released from prison in Kinshasa on Saturday. He was arrested in December 2016 during protests against Kabila after the then president refused to step down when he reached the constitutional limit on his term in office. On Friday, human rights activist Firmin Yangambi was also released after a decade in prison. "No spite or rancour," he said on Twitter. "It's time to save the Congo". Home to more than 40,000 people, Halabja is just 11 kilometres (seven miles) from the border with Saddam Hussein's arch-enemy Iran 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. Those who died at Halabja were among the victims of Saddam Hussein's Anfal campaign, which saw nearly 180,000 killed and more than 3,000 villages destroyed 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. 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. The US move marks the latest deterioration in relations between Washington and Havana Havana accused Washington on Saturday of creating obstacles to US travel by Cubans by reducing the duration of its tourist visas from five years to three months. The United States, which announced the change on Friday, said it was matching the island's own visa rules for US visitors. The so-called B-2 tourist visa allowed Cubans multiple entries to the United States for periods up to five years. As of Monday, they will be eligible only for three-month, single-entry tourist visas. The Cuban foreign ministry issued a statement objecting to the change, saying "it increases the obstacles for family and other visits." "If the United States really wants to apply reciprocity, it should immediately open its consulate in Havana, and resume the process of issuing visas, which it arbitrarily and unjustifiably interrupted more than a year ago, and eliminate the prohibition on US citizens traveling freely to Cuba," it said. US relations with Cuba, which were restored under former president Barack Obama, have soured under Donald Trump. If Washington "really wants to apply reciprocity, it should immediately open its consulate in Havana," resume issuing visas, and "eliminate the prohibition on US citizens traveling freely to Cuba," Cuba's foreign ministry said The United States 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 US move was "politically motivated." Iranians protested outside the former US embassy in Tehran on November 4, 2018, the anniversary of its storming by student protesters that triggered a hostage crisis in 1979 An Iranian court has sentenced an American to 10 years in prison for insulting the country's supreme leader and posting a private picture, his lawyer confirmed Saturday. Michael White, 46, a 13-year US Navy veteran, was arrested in July in the northeastern Iranian city of Mashhad while visiting a girlfriend he reportedly met online. His lawyer Mark Zaid confirmed that White was sentenced to two years for insulting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and 10 years for posting a picture, apparently to be served concurrently. "We remain very concerned about his health as he has pre-existing medical conditions but we've been informed he appears to be in a good state at the moment," Zaid said in an email. The New York Times, which first reported the sentencing, said White had been given two court hearings, on March 6 and March 9. The State Department was informed of the sentencing by Swiss diplomats who represent US interests in Iran, according to Zaid, who said White has not been allowed to communicate directly with his family. White's family has said he traveled to Iran on a valid visa to visit a woman with whom he had fallen in love. White was the first American to be detained in Iran since Donald Trump became president of the United States. Three other Americans imprisoned in Iran -- Siamak Namazi, Baquer Namazi and Xiyue Wang -- have been accused of spying and sedition. A fourth, Robert Levinson, has been missing in Iran since 2007. The Congress leader said that he was neither questioning the armed forces as being alleged by the BJP and the Prime Minister nor the government. Facing criticism from Mr Modi, Mr Pitroda, chief of Indian Overseas Congress, said that he was baffled by the Prime Ministers reaction to his question related to airstrikes. (Photo: File) New Delhi: Senior Congress leader and Gandhi family confidante Sam Pitroda stepped into a huge political row on Friday when he sought more facts from the government on last months airstrikes in Pakistans Balakot. The ruling BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were quick to slam the Congress leader for his remarks, saying they reflect the Congress unwillingness to respond to forces of terror. Leading the BJP charge, Mr Modi said Mr Pitroda, Congress president Rahul Gandhis most trusted adviser and guide, has kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of his party, ironically by demeaning Indias armed forces. Posting a series of tweets using the hashtag Janta maaf nahi karegi (people will not forgive), the PM said on the eve of Pakistans National Day, Loyal courtier of Congress royal dynasty admits what the nation already knew Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror. This is a New India we will answer terrorists in a language they understand and with interest! In an apparent reference to Pulwama terror attack, Mr Pitroda had said that attacks happen all the time and then referred to the Mumbai terror strikes in 2008 when the Congress-led UPA was in power, saying the then government could have sent its planes but that is not the right approach. He also sought more facts from the Modi government on Balakot airstrikes last month while referring to international media reports questioning claims that over 300 terrorists were killed in the IAF action. Facing criticism from Mr Modi, Mr Pitroda, chief of Indian Overseas Congress, said that he was baffled by the Prime Ministers reaction to his question related to airstrikes. All I said is, can we get more facts, thats all. I dont know why this whole confusion... In democracy you are entitled to ask a question. It is good to have a debate, discussion, dialogue, discourse, he said. The Congress leader said that he was neither questioning the armed forces as being alleged by the BJP and the Prime Minister nor the government. I am just saying give me more facts, said Mr Pitroda. With the BJP using the nationalism pitch to corner the Congress, the Opposition party distanced itself from Mr Pitrodas comments. At a press conference, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said, Whether it is Mr Pitroda or any individual, such comments may be their personal opinion and the Congress has nothing to do with them. He asserted that the Pulwama terror attack was a grave national security failure of the Modi government while the Balakot airstrike was a shining example of the valour of the Indian Air Force. BJP chief Amit Shah and finance minister Amit Shah also slammed Mr Pitroda for his remarks. Finance minister Arun Jaitley trained his guns on Mr Pitroda saying, There is no country that has criticised the surgical strikes or the airstrikes conducted by India except for one nation, Pakistan. The fact that senior Congress leaders are speaking the same language is unfortunate and also hurts the sentiments of the country. To say that the Pulwama attack was self-engineered is a blessing for Pakistans narrative, he said. BJP president Amit Shah said the difference between the Opposition and the BJP is clear. They suspect our Army, we are proud of our Army. Theirheart beats for terrorists, ours beats for the tiranga. This election, through the power of your vote, do a surgical strike on the Congress culture, he said. Paris Jackson attends the 2019 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in February 2019 Paris Jackson, daughter of the late superstar Michael, struck down rumors that she attempted suicide Saturday, assailing "liars" in an expletive-laden tweet. Celebrity news website TMZ initially ran the report saying Jackson, a 20-year-old model, was hospitalized after a suicide attempt at her Los Angeles home. Without providing additional details a police spokesman told AFP that units from Hollywood responded to an "attempt suicide" requiring an ambulance, at about 7:30 am, after which the "subject was transported to a local hospital." Jackson has been open about her struggles with mental health. She attempted to kill herself in 2013, and told Rolling Stone magazine she had previously attempted suicide "multiple times." Saturday's rumors follow weeks of fallout over a documentary detailing pedophilia accusations against Michael Jackson, who died in 2009 of an overdose. Michael Jackson is the subject of a documentary reviving pedophilia accusations against him in stark detail The model tweeted recently it was "not my role" to defend her father's legacy, saying other family members were carrying the torch and she supports them. "I'm just tryna get everyone to chill out and go with the flow, be mellow and think about the bigger picture. that's me," Jackson tweeted. In a later tweet she said "my father handled his trials and tribulations with grace, peace, and love. it's a more effective way of life. i suggest we all take that as an example." A number of radio stations from Australia to Canada have shelved Jackson's catalogue in light of the "Leaving Neverland" documentary. French luxury brand Louis Vuitton dropped Jackson-themed clothing on Thursday from a collection it had shown at Paris Fashion Week in January, saying it found the "allegations in the documentary deeply troubling and disturbing." Former US vice president Joe Biden is the most prominent American Democrat who is still openly mulling a 2020 White House bid against President Donald Trump What a tease. Veteran Democrat Joe Biden campaigned for president in all but name Saturday, declining to announce his 2020 plans but dropping hints, including a significant gaffe that suggests he will soon be all in. As the number of White House hopefuls keeps growing -- at least 14 Democrats are officially in the race -- Biden is now the last major politician who is contemplating jumping in. But the former vice president has maintained the suspense. He received a hero's welcome in his home state of Delaware, where he told nearly 1,000 party brokers and leaders at a Democratic dinner that it was time to restore America's "backbone," but also that political "consensus" was necessary to move beyond the toxic tone of the Trump era. "Our politics has become so mean, so petty, so vicious, that we can't govern ourselves -- in many cases, even talk to one another," he said. Then, a startling slip by the notoriously gaffe-prone Biden -- perhaps an accident, perhaps a perfectly placed tease as he inches towards a presidential campaign. "I'm told I get criticized by the new left. I have the most progressive record of anybody running for the United" -- and then he catches himself. "Anybody who WOULD run." A murmur rippled through the crowd, and within moments his die-hard supporters rose to their feet, chanting "Run Joe run." "I didn't mean it!" he chuckled, looking down before crossing himself as the applause lingered. "Of anybody who would run," he repeated. "Because folks, we have to bring this country back together again." Biden, 76, sounded as if he was rehearsing a campaign speech, repeating lines about the promise of the 21st century and American resolve that he had used earlier in the week at a Washington speech to firefighters. "There's so much at stake," he said about the next election, calling it the most important in a century. "Our core values are being shredded." The Democratic senior statesman has been mulling a challenge against Trump for months. While he tops nearly all early polls for the Democratic nominations race, he is under pressure to enter the field soon, or bow out. One of his potential rivals, the former Texas congressman Beto O'Rourke, launched his presidential bid Thursday and spent three straight days campaigning in the early voting state of Iowa, sucking up much of the political oxygen. Biden, a consensus-building pragmatist and Washington establishment fixture, is almost certain to kick off his campaign by mid-April, sources recently told The New York Times. "Folks, as I said, we're literally in the battle for the soul of America, and an overwhelming need to restore the backbone of America: the working class, the middle class," he said in the unmistakable rhetoric of a candidate. Biden mulled a presidential bid after eight years as Barack Obama's deputy, but he declined after his son Beau died of cancer in early 2015. For many, it was a relief to hear their state's favorite son sounding like a candidate once again. "He doesn't just look like he's back, he looks like he's ready for a fight," Delaware Governor John Carney said, firing up the crowd. "In my humble opinion, we have never needed Joe Biden more than we need him right now." Other Democrats in the audience agreed. "Let me tell you something, it's Joe time," Stefanie Thompson, a vice president at a financial services company, told AFP as she rattled off several Biden attributes she sees as crucial for the next president. "Civility, experience, professionalism, and grace -- qualities that only Joe has out of this very crowded field." But not everyone agreed that Biden ought to remain eloquent and above the fray should he take on Trump. "I think we tried eloquent before. Maybe we need to fight harder this time," said Jeffrey Sytsma-Sherman, a Delaware Health and Social Services employee. Biden was ready with lines of attack, assailing Trump for "tearing down the guardrails of our democracy" by weakening hallowed institutions like the independent judiciary. He also slammed the dissolution of the "basic bargain" of corporations shared their financial successes with their employees. Biden wouldn't elaborate, but dropped a final tantalizing hint: "You're going to be hearing a hell of a lot more about it from me." Puea Thai's party candidate Chadchart Sittipunt talks to a voter in Bangkok In his final days as a "Red Shirt" rabble-rouser Suporn "Rambo Isaan" Attawong urged farmers to take up martial arts in defence of Thai democracy as a coup loomed. Now he is contesting national elections for a party aligned to the junta which seized power weeks later -- a political volte-face in a nation where pragmatism often trumps ideology and cash coaxes voter loyalty. "Politics is a competition," he says of his political reversal. "We used to be part of previous government and now we are on the other side." Turbulent Thailand is often cast as a country neatly split between political camps representing the pro-democracy movement and the army-aligned establishment. Korranit Ngamsukonratana, a parliamentary candidate for the army-aligned Phalang Pracharat party, campaigning in the slum area of Klongtoey district in Bangkok last week But after two coups in 13 years -- featuring rounds of paralysing protests and the demolition of several parties by the courts -- the political landscape is more roughly hewn. It is tacked together by influential local politicians with large vote banks and a knack for backing the winning side. Suporn was dubbed "Rambo Isaan" by the media for his tough guy persona and heritage in Isaan -- the poor, rice farming northeast which carries the most votes in parliament. But his fortunes were imperilled by the coup that took out the civilian government of Yingluck Shinawatra. At the time a lawmaker for her Pheu Thai ruling party, Suporn was detained by the military. He emerged contrite, renouncing his previous affiliations on national television. His about-turn will be complete if he wins his district seat in Nakon Ratchasima province on March 24 for the junta-aligned Phalang Pracharat party. Rambo says his political resurrection came after he accepted he was "part of the conflict" tearing apart the country. His new side "will bring reconciliation", he added. Early voting begins on Sunday, with more than 2.5 million reportedly set to cast their ballots. - Playing politics - Phalang Pracharat has poached more than 40 other veteran MPs from Pheu Thai in the hope of lassoing in northeastern voters who mostly back Shinawatra-aligned parties. An electoral poster of the military-aligned Phalang Pracharat party bearing the portrait of General Prayut Chan-O-Cha displayed in the Klongtoey district of Bangkok Junta chief Prayut Chan-O-Cha is the party's candidate for prime minister after the election, which experts say will at best return a straitjacketed democracy with the military still prominent. Thai power is sharply hierarchical, with patronage networks fanning out from Bangkok, through provincial government and down to village headmen. The Shinawatra political clan perfected the art of pulling in provincial votes. Universal healthcare, farm subsidies and village funds boosted incomes and aspirations in long-neglected rural areas of the country, bolstering the popularity of local politicians. Many of the MPs to recently jump ship from Pheu Thai grew powerful under the Shinawatras but flipped as the political tea leaves augured a long stay in power for the generals and their allies. The defectors are "vote magnets in their constituencies, because they are the local providers", according to Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a politics professor at Chulalongkorn University. This entrenched system of patronage disadvantages newcomers who choose to "play politics" -- as Thais describe the dash for office. The task of convincing grassroots voters to swap sides falls to trusted canvassers who often sit under politicians' wings. The Election Commission punishes vote-buying and cash inducements during campaign season with up to 10 years in prison, but the system is deeply embedded in local politics. "Canvassers are like salesmen approaching clients," an experienced practitioner of the dark political arts in the northeast told AFP. Korranit Ngamsukonratana, a parliamentary candidate for the army-aligned Phalang Pracharat party, leads a motorcade while campaigning in Klongtoey district in Bangkok "No matter how loyal voters are, money can change it," he added. The "vast majority" of the country is already under the control of these canvassers, analyst Thitinan added, citing Bangkok as the exception. "The more up-country and the poorer the area is, the more it is exposed to vote-buying," he said. Historically payments can reach up to 1,000 baht ($31) for a pledged vote, a large sum in areas where the monthly wage can dip well below $100. - 'Dogs howl' - Thais have not voted in a general election since 2011. Some fear beefed up laws will threaten the time-honoured election ritual of paying voters top-up sums (up to 500 baht) the night before polls open. Dubbed "the night the dogs howl" -- canvassers normally go door-to-door across remote villages trying to outbid rivals. This year they expect greater monitoring and possible election bans. So "the payments will be made a few days before", one told AFP. Voters are also wise to the changing game. Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha delivers an address at an economic forum in Bangkok "Where candidates are neck-and-neck, parties will employ every tactic," said Laddawan Tantivitayapitak of poll monitoring group Open Forum for Democracy Foundation. "But the people know their politicians, they have learned their lesson." One voter in Nakhon Ratchasima told AFP he "earned" around 2,000 baht ($62) from several different parties right before the 2011 election. But his political loyalty cannot be rented, the 33-year-old insisted, requesting anonymity. "We will take the money but will vote for whoever improves our the economic situation of our area," he said. Chinese police checking a public bath house as masseurs serve their guests in Qingdao, east China's Shandong province. When Chinese legislators recommended the abolition of "education" detention centres where prostitutes and clients can be held without charge for two years, activists hoped the facilities' days were numbered. They will have to wait longer. The rubber-stamp National People's Congress (NPC) passed only one new law when it ended its annual session on Friday -- and it had to do with opening up foreign investment. Under the nearly three-decade-old system, police have unilateral power to detain sex workers and their clients for up to two years in "shelter and education" centres. Critics say the centres have little to do with education. "There may be resistance inside the regime against abolition, perhaps by the police, as this would take away some of its arbitrary detention powers," said Wang Yaqiu, a researcher at Human Rights Watch. In 2013, testimonies of ex-detainees collected by Asia Catalyst -- an organisation that defends the health of marginalised groups in the region -- revealed the harsh living conditions in the centres. These included ill-treatment, forced labour, and the obligation to pay for subsistence and forced medical examinations at prohibitive prices. Chinese police watch over a group of massage girls suspected of prostitution during a raid on a parlour in Beijing a few years ago "All this is a matter of money, the talk of rehabilitation or ideological education is hollow, it is just a way of extorting money on behalf of the state and the police", one of the women told the group. Shen Chunyao, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee's legislative affairs commission, said in December that "the time has come to begin the work of abolition". "In recent years, the use of the detention and education system has gradually decreased, the number of people in the centres has clearly diminished and they have been banned in some places," he added. - 'Very dangerous' - Discussion over the future of the centres came after China's top legislative committee abolished its system of "re-education through labour camps", known as "laojiao", in 2013. Shen Chunyao has said "the time has come to begin the work of abolition" of the detention centres Shutting the labour camps -- introduced more than half a century ago as a speedy way to handle petty offenders -- closed the curtain on a dark aspect of the country's modern history long criticised by human rights groups and which Chinese officials admitted was no longer viable. But authorities retained the right to detain sex workers and their clients, and in 2014 police announced that popular actor Huang Haibo would be held for six months for having solicited a prostitute. That prompted a rare instance of dissent from state media, which questioned the system. Getting rid of the detention centres would be "a very positive step for the rule of law in China", said Shen Tingting, director of advocacy and policy at Asia Catalyst. Although illegal, prostitution remains widespread in China, with an estimated several million sex workers. A woman awaits customers from the doorway of a neon-lit barber shop in Beijing before a police offensive aimed cracking down on the city's rollicking sex industry Many living in Beijing were driven out with migrant workers as part of a demolition campaign in the city's slums in 2017. "Today they are in the suburbs, isolated, with no place to work. They go online and go to the customer's house, it's very dangerous," Shen said. She said the existing legal arsenal is already "sufficient" -- prostitutes and their clients can be fined up to 5,000 yuan ($745) and face up to 15 days of administrative detention. But Shen is unconvinced that attitudes towards sex workers would change, even if the forced re-education of prostitutes eventually disappears. "The repression will continue," she said, "and one wonders what new system (could) replace the old one." Pakistani authorities have arrested hundreds of suspected Islamist militants and shuttered more than 700 madrassas, mosques, and clinics linked to banned groups At a mosque on a quiet Islamabad street, any reference to the UN-listed terror group which runs it has been removed as Pakistan -- once again -- comes under pressure to demonstrate its sincerity about eliminating militancy. The first wave of militant detentions was announced by Islamabad on March 5, as tensions were still cooling between India and Pakistan after their latest confrontation over the disputed Kashmir region. New Delhi has long accused Islamabad of harbouring militant groups, which it says are used by Pakistan intelligence agencies to attack India. The February 14 suicide blast in Indian-administered Kashmir -- claimed by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed -- is the latest example, and the attack which ignited the recent crisis between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Since March 5, Pakistani authorities have arrested hundreds of suspected Islamist militants and shuttered more than 700 madrassas, mosques, and clinics linked to banned groups. Mosques like the Al-Quba mosque visited by AFP in Islamabad -- which is run by Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), seen by the UN as a charity front for an anti-India militant group -- have had all signs announcing their links to such organisations removed. Instead, a green sign clinging to a post proclaims the new management of the premises by the "Government of Pakistan". The crackdown by authorities is reminiscent of previous efforts, and Pakistan has yet to convince the international community this latest one is sincere "This government will not allow Pakistan's land to be used for any kind of outside terrorism," vowed Prime Minister Imran Khan earlier this month. But the crackdown is reminiscent of previous efforts, and Pakistan has yet to convince the international community that their latest thrust is sincere. Cracks have already begun to emerge after Pakistan's longtime ally China this week blocked measures by the UN Security Council to blacklist JeM leader Masood Azhar. It was the fourth time China has blocked such attempts, reinforcing suspicions that it was acting on Pakistan's behest. If so, observers said, the move undermined the sincerity of the crackdown. Had Azhar been blacklisted, Pakistan would have been morally compelled to halt his activities, a Western diplomat said. "Is Pakistan just trying to fool us?" the diplomat asked. "I would say yes." New Delhi also remained sceptical. "The widespread presence of terrorist camps in Pakistan is public knowledge within and outside Pakistan," said Indian foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar last week. - 'Low profile' - The crackdown has largely targeted JeM along with JuD, which is linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, the group accused by India and Washington of masterminding the terrorist attacks in Mumbai in 2008. Shuttering groups like JuD -- which provides widespread and vital services like healthcare to poor communities in a developing country where government-run social services are sorely lacking -- risks a potential backlash. "We were ordered to close the health centres and give our ambulances to the authorities," Akbar Khan, a JuD official based in the northwestern city of Peshawar, told AFP. "Our leaders asked us to accept everything and to keep a low profile," he added. A source close to JeM said the ongoing operation was unprecedented in its scale. "Almost the entire leadership of JeM has been detained, all the clerics and head clerics have been replaced and administrative control of all our mosques have also been taken over," said the source. "We have never seen such harsh steps in past." However the operation mirrors similar crackdowns on militants, such as after attacks on the Indian parliament in 2001 and in Mumbai in 2008. Groups like Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) provide widespread and vital services like healthcare to poor communities Then, extremists were also detained -- only for many to be released later, and the groups allowed to continue their activities, both militant and charitable. Pakistan has also not yet demonstrated its willingness to go any further than detentions and closures. "Closing major infrastructures is a very important step, but it doesn't show that the whole network has been dismantled," said analyst Huma Yusuf, a fellow with the Washington-based Wilson Center. "There are still thousands of militants in the country. What do you do with them? A peace and reconciliation process? A deradicalisation plan? Anything? Right now, there is nothing." - Terror financing - The crisis also comes as Pakistan is facing possible sanctions from the Financial Action Task Force -- an anti money-laundering monitor based in Paris -- for failing to rein in terror financing. The organisation will soon decide whether to add Pakistan to a blacklist that would trigger automatic sanctions, further weakening Pakistan's already faltering economy. Analysts fear even those headwinds may not be enough to convince the Pakistani intelligence agencies to cut their alleged ties with militants. "Why would they give away something that they have created, nurtured and defended for 30 years?" said author Myra MacDonald, a researcher specialising in Pakistan. "There is a concern that if you hit them too hard, they will hit the Pakistani state back." strs-sjd-jf/ahe/ds/gle Indonesian officials raiding a book store and seizing what they say were communism-related books in Padang, West Sumatra province earlier this year Bookseller Yanto Tjahaja was tending to his shop when soldiers burst through the door and confiscated a dozen titles over claims they violated one of Indonesia's most sensitive taboos: communism. Upwards of half a million leftists were massacred across the Southeast Asian nation in the mid-1960s, a bloody spectacle that ushered in the long rule of dictator Suharto, whose fervent anti-communist stance remains decades on. The killings led to the collapse of the now-banned Indonesian Communist Party (PKI), once among the biggest in the world behind China and the Soviet Union. Jakarta's narrative was that any violence was necessary to rid the Muslim-majority country of a godless ideology. And Indonesians are still warned from an early age about the dangers of a communist revival in the nation of 260 million, now the world's third-biggest democracy. The January raid on Tjahaja's shop -- part of a government-ordered sweep -- has been slammed by some critics as a cynical ploy to win over voters ahead of April's national elections, as it resurrects one of the darkest chapters in Indonesian history. "They said the confiscated books were about the PKI. But we didn't know. We just sold them," Tjahaja told AFP at his shop in Padang city on Sumatra island. "My wife and I are still traumatised. We were treated like criminals," he added. - 'Election linked' - The images of Latin American revolutionary Che Guevara or communist symbols like the hammer and sickle may adorn books, t-shirts and posters elsewhere in the world, but such displays can see Indonesians jailed under laws banning communist ideology and political representation. Dozens of bookstores nationwide have been targeted recently with troops taking away titles such as "Chronicle 65" and "Children of the Revolution", which document the violent crackdown. Rights groups have called on President Joko Widodo, who is running for re-election, to end the raids. Uchikowati Fauzia, the daughter of a once-imprisoned communist Djohar Arifin Santosa, posing with her father's photograph in Jakarta. Upwards of half a million leftists were massacred across the Southeast Asian nation in the mid-Sixties "These recent raids were only done to give the impression that the government is not ignoring fears that communism is coming back," said Asvi Warwan Adam, a political history professor at The Indonesian Institute of Sciences. "It's obviously linked to the elections," he explained. There is little evidence that communism -- or the defunct PKI -- is mounting a comeback. But fears about a PKI resurrection run deep in Indonesia. In the runup to elections, AFP found numerous false claims online aimed at discrediting Widodo and his challenger Prabowo Subianto -- a former general who married one of Suharto's daughters -- by suggesting that they themselves are communist sympathisers. Ronny Augustinus, head of online bookstore Marjin Kiri, said Widodo's adminstration is tapping a well-worn, election-time bogeyman because it's "only concerned about maintaining power". The Attorney General's office did not respond to requests for comment on the raids. - 'Communist Treachery' - The PKI, which once had millions of members, was prominent in Indonesia after it won independence from Dutch colonists in the 1940s. Its power grew as a faltering economy left millions impoverished, but the party was blamed for a failed 1965 coup attempt that left top military personnel dead. In response, the Suharto-led military and army-backed paramilitaries massacred PKI members, sympathisers and their families. The bloodshed opened the door for then-general Suharto to seize power from left-leaning president and independence hero Sukarno. In 2017, declassified US diplomatic documents revealed that a communist-fearing White House was well aware of the bloody purges, which one diplomat described as a "widespread slaughter". Indonesian officials seizing what they say were communism-related books in West Sumatra The Act of Killing, an Oscar-nominated 2012 documentary, highlighted the brutality through the eyes of unpunished perpetrators as they brazenly re-enacted decades-old murders of leftists. "My friends and I were labelled daughters of the PKI and it went on for years," Uchikowati Fauzia, the daughter of a once-imprisoned communist, told AFP. "Even now the stigma has not gone away," she added. But there is little sympathy at the Suharto-built Museum of the Treachery of the Communist Party, a staple for class trips and domestic tourists. The site in a Jakarta suburb features dozens of graphic dioramas that chronicle gruesome torture and violence carried out by communists, while deifying the dead generals. "Communism has no place in our country. They were ruthless and brutally killed our heroes so we've got to be alert," said 26-year-old visitor Muhammad Hafiz. - 'Confusion and mistrust' - There is still widespread disagreement about the killings and even the number of victims -- some estimates reach as high as three million dead. While Widodo did back public discussions into the bloodshed, he faced a strong backlash from a military reluctant to shine a light on its involvement. More recently, a group of young journalists started an online project called Ingat 65 -- Remember 65 -- to document the tumultuous period through personal narratives. "Many Indonesians know the (official) narrative contains lies and half-truths, but there is too much confusion," said Michael Van, an academic at California's Sacramento State University. "Confusion and mistrust can breed apathy." Back in Padang, Tjahaja is considering closing his bookstore as scared customers stopped coming and the business has been vilified on social media. "They were history books," he said of the confiscated titles. He added: "If we cant sell them, then we might as well just not study history at all." Abdul Kadir's split-second decision saved his life in the Christchurch mosque massacre As the bullets tore into worshippers during Friday prayers, taxi driver Abdul Kadir Ababora threw himself to the floor and wedged himself under a bookshelf used to hold Korans, praying he would see his wife and kids again. Somehow that decision saved his life and he emerged from the carnage unscathed. "It's just a miracle," he told AFP on Sunday as he revisited the scene. "When I woke up to the left and right of me it was just dead bodies." Like so many who attended weekly prayers at Christchurch's Al Noor mosque, Ababora had come to New Zealand from a troubled overseas homeland hoping to find peace and prosperity. The 48-year-old said he arrived from Ethiopia in 2010 and made a life for himself in the placid city of Canterbury. Two weeks ago he and his wife celebrated the birth of their third son. Then on Friday a self-professed white supremacist, wielding an armoury of semi-automatic rifles scrawled with racist ideology, walked into the Al Noor mosque and unleashed a rampage that left at least 50 dead and dozens more with life-changing injuries. - Sermon then gunfire - Ababora said the mosque's imam had just started delivering the English translation of the khutbah -- the sermon during Friday prayers -- when the gunfire erupted outside. The first person he saw struck was a Palestinian, a man who was an engineer by training but who, like Abobora, also drove a taxi in the city. "He walked up just to see what is going on and then he saw the attacker. When he tried to run he shot him somewhere here," Ababora recalled, pointing to his side. "I saw him falling down." Soon Brenton Tarrant, the 28-year-old Australian police say carried out the massacre, was inside the prayer hall, pumping round after round into the defenceless worshippers. Ababora said he instinctively fell to the ground and managed to squeeze himself against a bookshelf that held the Korans worshippers used during prayers. Crucially, it made his body a slightly smaller target. "I just pretended as if I am dead," he said. Ababora said he was sickened at how methodical the killer was, firing round after round into the crumpled pile of bodies in a well-planned attack he later learned was broadcast on Facebook. "This guy started to shoot randomly, left and right, automatic. And then he finished the first box (magazine) and then he changed it, again automatic. Then he finished the second one, he put the third box, again start automatic in the other room again." He could feel the shockwaves from the bullets pass by his body. "I was waiting (for) my moment, when every second (a) shot comes I was saying 'This is for me. This is for me'. And I lost hope," he said. He began to silently pray and think of his family. - 'Blood everywhere' - The horror was far from over when the gunman departed after emptying a fourth magazine before driving across town to commit a second atrocity at the Linwood mosque. For an agonising number of minutes afterwards, no one at the Al Noor mosque dared make a sound. But as the pain got too much for the wounded, people started crying out. The scene in front of Ababora was hellish. "There was blood everywhere," he said. A friend called out, saying he had been shot in the leg. He tried to help him up but the leg was shattered by the bullet. Ababora staggered outside to find another worshipper -- whose son is friends with his eldest son -- alive but with horrific injuries. He had been shot in the jaw, his hand and his back. It was only after laying the man down he noticed two more bodies -- two women lying in a pool of blood. "They were late comers," he explained. "When he (the gunman) finished everyone in the mosque and he came out to escape, these ladies were late, and he shot them. Bang. Bang." Close by was one of the gunman's discarded rifles and Ababora said he instantly recognised "Nazi" symbols written on it as well as historic places and dates celebrated by the far-right such as the Battle of Vienna in 1683. "He wrote all the places where Muslims were attacked on the gun, all over the gun." Like most of Christchurchs inhabitants, Ababora said he never believed such hatred would arrive on his doorstep. "We used to say New Zealand is safe, especially in Christchurch we say we are safe, it's a trusting system here. The Muslims here, we are the most quiet people," he said, adding the mosques in the city dont even broadcast the call to prayer. "New Zealand is not safe any more," he concluded. "This is brutal." Doctors, surgeons and nurses have been working around the clock at Christchurch Hospital since Friday's mass shooting In a city battered by quakes, Christchurch's medics were tragically well-schooled in tackling mass casualty events -- but none could have prepared for the injuries unleashed by a white supremacist with assault rifles bent on mass murder. Doctors, surgeons and nurses have been working around the clock at Christchurch Hospital since Friday's mass shooting at two mosques, frantically trying to stem bleeding, patch up shattered bodies and save lives. On Sunday, 34 patients remained in the hospital in Christchurch, twelve of them still in critical condition. Another of the injured -- four-year-old girl Alin Alsati -- was in intensive care at a specialist children's hospital in Auckland. Greg Robertson, the chief surgeon at Christchurch Hospital, spoke on Sunday of the sheer magnitude of Friday's massacre. "Horror, stunned, anger," he said, describing how his team of doctors, nurses and surgeons felt as the wounded poured in -- initially in private cars and then in an ever-increasing stream of ambulances. This is not the first time the city has dealt with mass casualties. A series of earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 killed more than 180 people and left many more injured, honing the medical skills of the city's doctors to deal with a sudden influx of complex wounds. "I dont think there's any doubt the earthquake did have a bearing on it -- the old adage practice makes perfect works on a lot of things and thats part of our processes," he said. But he admitted the horrifying, man-made nature of the latest tragedy had a much greater psychological impact on staff. "The earthquake was something that we couldn't control,' he said. "It's the fact that someone has done this to our people, our friends, our colleagues, this is just unbelievable." - Brutal ammunition - The kind of injuries surgeons were facing this time around were also particularly horrifying. Robertson said his teams do sometimes encounter gunshot wounds but never on such a scale. New Zealand usually witnesses only 50 murders a year. Suddenly one town had that many people murdered in a single day and dozens more wounded -- some struck by multiple bullets. Many of those brought to the hospital have been in and out of operating theatres multiple times, as surgeons prioritise the worst parts of the injuries -- such as stemming the bleeding, clearing blocked airways, trying to save limbs -- before dealing with the less severe wounds. Greg Robertson, chief of surgery at Christchurch Hospital, said previously working with earthquake victims gave staff valuable medical experience First responders and paramedics played a crucial role. "I guess that's reflected in the fact we've had only one death in a patient that arrived at the hospital. Those who got here, have a chance," Robertson said. It is likely Pakistani national Mohammed Amin Nas only survived because of the paramedics. His son Yasir Amin told AFP they encountered the alleged assailant -- Australian national Brenton Tarrant -- driving outside the Al Noor mosque. "He took out this big gun and just shot at us as we were running," Yasir said. His father was struck four times. Yasir called emergency services who spent 10 minutes treating his father where he lay before rushing him to hospital. He has been into surgery three times and remains in intensive care. On a normal day, Christchurch would have three acute surgery theatres operating. On Sunday, seven were up and running with people working around the clock. Tarrant appears to have chosen ammunition designed to cause maximum trauma, Robertson said. "These are not something that goes through," he said, referring to the type of bullets. "We've got a lot of fragments, shotgun injuries." He said those treating patients would inevitably have their own traumatic memories. "There will undoubtedly be, as we saw after the earthquakes, a delayed mental stress type response to this whole thing." For now, he said, people were focused on saving lives. But colleagues would keep a close eye on each other in the weeks ahead. "Most people are coping with things pretty well when you're doing things," he said. "It's when you go home and you think about it, that's when the issues start to declare themselves." "You don't have much time to think, whatever you think of, you just do it, you know," Abdul Aziz told AFP, brushing off the "hero" tag When Afghan refugee Abdul Aziz saw a man brandishing a gun outside his mosque in Christchurch, he ran towards the attacker armed with the only weapon he could find -- a hand-held credit card machine. Seven people were killed when a white supremacist stormed Linwood Masjid -- the second mosque he attacked on Friday -- as worshippers knelt to pray. But the death toll could have been much higher if not for the heroic actions of Aziz, whose efforts to distract and chase the gunman away have attracted widespread praise. "You don't have much time to think, whatever you think of, you just do it, you know," Aziz told AFP, brushing off the "hero" tag as local Muslims gathered to thank him for saving relatives and friends. Aziz and his four sons were worshipping at the mosque when they heard the loud cracks of a gun being fired outside the building. Afghan refugee and local resident Abdul Aziz (L), is greeted by a man who came to thank him for his bravery Initially thinking someone was setting off firecrackers, Aziz became suspicious and ran out of the mosque, grabbing a small credit card processing device. Outside, he was stunned to find an armed man wearing military-style fatigues. "At first, I didn't know if he was the good guy or the bad guy. But when he started swearing, I knew he was not the good guy," he said. Aziz hurled the machine at Tarrant and then ducked between several cars as the self-confessed fascist unleashed a barrage of shots at him. Aziz then heard one of his sons call out, "Daddy, please come back inside!" Unhurt, Aziz picked up an empty shotgun that the gunman had discarded and shouted "come on here" repeatedly in an effort to draw him away from his sons and the other worshippers. "When he see the gun in my hands, I don't know what happened, he dropped the gun and I chased him with my own gun... I managed to throw the gun on his car and smash the car window, and I could see he was a bit frightened." Aziz kept chasing the attacker as he sped off in his car. The 48-year-old then returned to the mosque where he was greeted by scenes of carnage. Aziz, an Australian, moved Down Under as a child refugee. He lived in Sydney for almost three decades before moving to Christchurch a few years later. He says he has nothing but contempt for the attacker. "A lot of people tell him he is a gunman. But... a man never hurts anybody. He is not a man; he is a coward," Aziz said. Iranian lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh won the European Parliament's prestigious Sakharov Prize in 2012 France on Thursday called for Iranian human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh to be released and warned Tehran that its adherence to a nuclear accord does not give it a blank cheque on human rights. "We will do all we can to secure the release of Mrs Sotoudeh", French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told the upper chamber Senate. "She was condemned under astonishing conditions," for "defending the rights of women, in particular those who contest the obligation to wear the Islamic veil," he added. Sotoudeh's husband Reza Khandan told AFP on Sunday that his wife had been sentenced to a total of 33 years in prison over a case with seven charges, but she is to only serve the longest sentence, 12 years imposed on Sunday for "encouraging corruption and debauchery". She has also been convicted of espionage. Sotoudeh has also been sentenced to a total of 148 lashes for appearing in court without the hijab Islamic head covering and for another offence. According to Khandan, Sotoudeh has refrained from choosing a lawyer as attorneys on her previous cases have faced prosecution for representing her. "We have been making considerable efforts in recent months to preserve the (Iranian) nuclear accord, despite America's withdrawal," said Le Drian. "We are doing so because we respect our signature, but Iran must also respect its obligations in particular those international agreements relating to civil and political rights," he added. Last month the UN atomic watchdog said that Iran has been adhering to its deal with world powers on limiting its nuclear programme, as diplomatic wrangling continues over the future of the accord. The latest report from the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that Iran was still complying with the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with global powers under which Tehran drastically scaled back its nuclear programme in return for sanctions relief. Last week, European nations rejected a call from US Vice President Mike Pence to follow the US lead in withdrawing from the Iranian nuclear deal. Le Drian said Thursday: "Our wish to preserve the Vienna accord does not grant carte-blanche to Iran and certainly not in the matter of human rights." Before her arrest, Sotoudeh, 55, had taken on the cases of several women arrested for appearing in public without headscarves in protest at the mandatory dress code in force in Iran. Sotoudeh won the European Parliament's prestigious Sakharov Prize in 2012 for her work on high-profile cases, including those of convicts on death row for offences committed as minors. She spent three years in prison after representing dissidents arrested during mass protests in 2009 against the disputed re-election of ultra-conservative president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. The two-time Lok Sabha MP from Patna Sahib has also openly praised Mr Gandhi number of times earlier. Patna/New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday announced the names of 102 more candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, including partys senior leader and Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad from Patna Sahib in Bihar and national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri in Odisha. Mr Prasad replaces film actor and sitting MP Shatrughan Sinha. According to media reports, Mr Sinha is expected to join the Congress and seek re-election on the grand old partys ticket. The decision is likely to be announced either on Sunday or Monday in New Delhi in the presence of Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Mr Sinha, who had won 2009 and 2014 Lok Sabha elections on BJP ticket from Patna Sahib, has been at loggerheads with the party after he was not inducted into the Cabinet. On a number of occasions earlier he defied Prime Minister Narendra Modi and criticised demonetisation and GST rollout two major decisions of Modi government in 2016 and 2017. He has also been vocal about his support to RJD chief Lalu Yadav despite mounting corruption cases and conviction in the fodder scam which didnt go down well with the BJP leadership, party leaders said in Patna on Saturday. The two-time Lok Sabha MP from Patna Sahib has also openly praised Mr Gandhi number of times earlier. Mr Prasads name was announced jointly by NDA constituents at the state BJP office in Patna. The three NDA constituents in Bihar BJP, JD(U) and LJP announced the names of candidates for the 39 out of 40 seats for the 2019 general elections. Sources said that the BJP had shortlisted two Kayastha leaders with a strong support base in Patna to replace Mr Sinha. But after days of discussions, Mr Prasads name was included in the list. The party fielded Union ministers Narendra Singh Tomar, Jayant Sinha, Shripad Naik from Morena (Madhya Pradesh), Hazaribagh (Jharkhand), North Goa seats respectively. Party leader Anurag Thakur has been renominated from Hamirpur. Veteran party leader and sitting Kangra MP Shanta Kumar has been denied a ticket. Kishan Kapoor will replace the octogenarian leader as the BJP nominee from Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. The party has also changed the seat of Union minister Giriraj Singh from Nawada to Begusarai in Bihar. The BJP on Saturday also announced the candidature of its national spokesperson Sambhit Patra from Puri, through there was speculation earlier that Mr Modi would contest from that seat. With these 102 names, the BJP has announced the name of its 286 candidates so far for the election to the 543-member Lok Sabha which will held in seven phases beginning 11 April and ending on 19 May. Counting of votes will take place on 23 May. The names of candidates have been cleared by the BJPs central election committee (CEC) headed by party chief Amit Shah and including Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a series of meetings held in the national capital this week. The BJP had on Thursday released its first list of 184 candidates for the elections to 543-member Lok Sabha. Names of Mr Modi and Ms Shah figured in the list with the Prime Minister being fielded from Varanasi, the constituency he currently represents in Lok Sabha. The highlight of the list was the partys decision to field Mr Shah from Gandhinagar in place of its veteran leader L.K. Advani. US President Donald Trump, left, has bolstered his ally Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by making the unusual diplomatic move of backing Israel's capture of the Golan Heights and recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital US President Donald Trump is again breaking diplomatic norms in backing Israel's capture of the Golan Heights, with experts warning that he risks justifying expansionism by other countries. Israel conquered the Golan from Syria in the Six-Day War of 1967 and annexed it in 1981, but until now, the international community has not accepted the move, hoping the territory could serve as a bargaining chip in a future peace deal between the countries. But Trump on Thursday turned to Twitter for the abrupt diplomatic turnaround, saying that after 52 years, "it is time for the United States to fully recognize" Israeli sovereignty. The move -- which came as Trump's ally, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, faces elections -- has caused dismay even among US allies, with Britain and France both saying they still considered the Golan Heights to be "occupied" by Israel. Richard Haass, president of the Council on Foreign Relations, feared the consequences of walking away from UN Security Council Resolution 242, which stressed the "inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by war." The measure was passed after the Six-Day War. "This is the most fundamental principle of international order and was the basis of US opposition to Saddam's conquest of Kuwait and Putin's of Crimea," Haas said, referring to the 1991 Gulf War in which a US-led coalition freed Kuwait and Russia's 2014 seizure of the Ukrainian peninsula. It is not the first time that the real-estate mogul turned president has brazenly dismissed international conventions. In December 2017, Trump recognized passionately contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital, fulfilling a major goal for the Jewish state. In a television interview Secretary of State Mike Pompeo rejected the suggestion that the United States was using a double standard by recognizing Israeli sovereignty in the Golan while imposing sanctions on Russia for annexing Crimea. "What the president did with the Golan Heights is recognize the reality on the ground and the security situation necessary for the protection of the Israeli state. It's that simple," he told Sky News. Pompeo characterized the US as a "force for good" in the region, with "noble" intentions. "We want good outcomes... for all nations in the Middle East, and the decision the president made will increase the opportunity for there to be stability throughout the region," he said. - Law of the 'jungle' - Tourists visit Mount Bental in the Golan Heights Sweden's former foreign minister Carl Bildt said that Trump was returning to the law of the "jungle." "This is a catastrophic departure from the very basis of international law. Kremlin will applaud and apply the same principle to Crimea. Beijing will applaud and apply to South China Sea," Bildt tweeted. Syria and its ally Iran reliably denounced Trump's move. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan -- fearful of a breakup of Syria under which Kurds could seek independence -- said that Trump has created a "new crisis" and called for intervention by the Organization of the Islamic Conference. But allies also worried about the implications. France's foreign ministry said in a statement that recognizing Israeli sovereignty "would be contrary to international law, in particular the obligation for states not to recognize an illegal situation." Steven Cook, an expert on the Middle East at the Council on Foreign Relations, questioned the need to shake up the status quo, saying that US recognition only triggered fresh opposition to Israel's longstanding control of the Golan, where 20,000 settlers live. "In reality, there is no need for the recognition. Israel is in Golan for its own reasons, and nothing the Trump administration decides will change that," he wrote in an article in Foreign Policy magazine. Ilan Goldenberg of the Center for a New American Security said that Trump's decision "stirs a hornet's nest that didn't need stirring." "Also, it makes it quite hard for the US to continue to contest Russia's annexation of Crimea under the principle that taking territory by force is illegal. We now have no leg to stand on and the Russians will use it," he tweeted. "So why do it? Because this is awesome for Bibi's politics," he said, using Netanyahu's nickname. ZAGREB, Croatia (AP) - Thousands of people have rallied in Croatia demanding government action against domestic violence after a man threw his four small children from a balcony, seriously injuring them. The attack last month on the Adriatic Sea island of Pag has sent shock waves through the Balkan nation, inspiring a #spasime (save me) movement on social networks. The protesters gathered Saturday in Zagreb, the capital, and other Croatian cities. They carried banners reading "Zero Tolerance" or "No to violence." Croatian media say Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic came to Saturday's rally, demanding tougher measures against perpetrators of domestic violence and more prevention. The children in Pag, ranged in age from 3 to 8 and were tossed by their father from a height of 6 meters (20 feet). MILWAUKEE (AP) - The Latest on discovery of body in Minnesota believed to be missing 2-year-old girl whose mother was killed in Milwaukee (all times local): 11:25 a.m. Milwaukee police Chief Alfonso Morales says a body found along a southern Minnesota highway is believed to be that of a missing 2-year-old girl whose father is accused of killing her mother in Milwaukee. Morales told reporters Saturday that an off-duty public works employee saw something along Highway 218 north of Austin, Minnesota, as he was driving home Friday night. The chief says a child's body was found inside a blanket off the shoulder of the highway. Morales says the body is believed to be that of 2-year-old Noelani Robinson. He says an autopsy has not been conducted yet, but authorities believe the girl "had been there for quite some time." The girl's father, Dariaz Higgins, is accused of fatally shooting 24-year-old Sierra Robinson and wounding one of her friends Monday. Police arrested him Wednesday and say Higgins had been Robinson's pimp. Robinson had recently been living in Las Vegas. ___ 10:05 a.m. Authorities 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 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 girl's father, who is suspected of fatally shooting her mother 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." GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) - Palestinian rights groups say Hamas briefly detained four of their researchers as it dispersed protests in Gaza against recent tax hikes. Hundreds of Gazans gathered for a third day on Saturday to protest the tax hikes, which have made life even harder in the territory. Gaza has been under an Israeli and Egyptian blockade since Hamas seized power more than a decade ago. Two researchers from the Al-Mezan rights group, one from the Palestinian Center for Human Rights and one from Al-Dameer were held for a few hours before being released. Online videos show Hamas forces raiding homes, attacking protesters with clubs and firing into the air. Several Palestinian factions have signed a statement urging Hamas to stop its crackdown and lower the taxes. NEW YORK (AP) - The Latest on St. Patrick's Day parades in the U.S. (all times local): 12:50 p.m. The St. Patrick's Day parade in New York City is a mix of celebration and a new troublesome topic hovering over the marchers: Britain's failed Brexit deal with the European Union that could squeeze Ireland's economy. But nothing could put a damper on the largest American celebration of Irish heritage Saturday. Tens of thousands of participants followed a painted green line up the avenue for the six-hour procession. A 27-year-old spectator from New Jersey says he's always been proud to be Irish-American. But Kevin Coughlan has family in the Republic of Ireland and worries that a rift with the United Kingdom could close the border with U.K-governed Northern Ireland. And that would slow business for the Irish. The parade followed Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, where Cardinal Timothy Dolan is greeting marchers. ___ 1 a.m. It's going to be a sea of green in New York City for the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. The parade brings together tens of thousands of marchers in celebration of Irish heritage. It's one of the city's oldest events, with its earliest iterations dating back more than 250 years and its current format going back to the mid-1800s. This year's event is taking place as Ireland and the rest of the European Union are waiting to see how the United Kingdom handles Brexit, which had been scheduled for March 29. This week, British lawmakers voted to seek to delay Brexit for at least three months. The parade goes up Fifth Avenue over the course of six hours, with the reviewing stand at St. Patrick's Cathedral. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) - 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 U.S. State Department, which in turn learned of it from the Swiss government, which looks after American interests in Iran. In this 2018 photograph released by lawyer Mark Zaid, Michael R. White, right, is seen with his mother, Joanne White, left. White, a U.S. Navy veteran from California, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in Iran, his lawyer said Saturday, March 16, 2019, becoming the first American known to be imprisoned there since President Donald Trump took office. (White family via AP) 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 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. ___ Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellap . MADRID (AP) - Thousands of people marched Saturday in Madrid to support Catalan politicians and activists who are on trial for their attempts to secede from Spain in October 2017. The nine defendants face decades in prison on rebellion and other charges for staging a banned independence referendum for the northeastern region and pushing ahead with an independence declaration that Madrid deemed unconstitutional. Large pro-independence protests have filled the streets of Spain's northeastern region of Catalonia and some European cities, but Saturday's was the first major separatist march in the Spanish capital. Organizers said 120,000 people attended, well beyond their expectations. Police put the number of marchers at around 18,000 and said no incidents were reported. It was not possible to reconcile the different crowd estimates. A banner reading "Self-determination is not a crime" opened the demonstration, with Catalan politicians leading the way. Speaking to reporters at the scene, Catalonia's regional president said the march in Madrid was needed in order to decry a trial that he described as a "farce." Many separatists in Catalonia believe the defendants in the Supreme Court case are political prisoners who are being tried for their ideas. Spain says the judicial process is fair and that its courts are fully independent from the government. Catalan pro-independence demonstrators wave "esteladas," or separatist flags during a rally in Madrid, Spain, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Tens of thousands are marching in Madrid to support Catalan politicians and activists standing trial for their attempt to secede from Spain. The nine defendants face decades in prison on rebellion and other charges for staging a banned referendum in October 2017 and declaring Catalan independence. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue) The trial is about to enter the fifth week of hearings. The proceedings in Madrid are being closely followed across the country, with media broadcasting live lengthy testimonies by defendants and witnesses and radios hosting in-depth debates about prosecution strategies. A sentence is not expected until after Spain's April 28 general election. The issue of Catalan independence versus Spanish unity is a major topic for voters. The failed Catalan independence declaration in 2017 set off Spain's most serious constitutional crisis in decades. Catalan pro-independence demonstrators hold "estelada," or separatist flags, as they arrive to Madrid, Spain, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Demonstrators made their way to Spain's capital to show support for former regional politicians who they consider political prisoners and are the defendants in an ongoing trial related to 2017 independence push. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) A Catalan pro-independence demonstrator drinks using a wineskin, as they arrive to Madrid, Spain, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Tens of thousands are marching Madrid in support of Catalan politicians and activists standing trial for an attempt to secede from Spain. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) Catalan pro-independence demonstrators hold banners reading "shall not pass" and "there is no justice" during a rally in Madrid, Spain, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Tens of thousands are marching in Madrid to support Catalan politicians and activists standing trial for their attempt to secede from Spain. The nine defendants face decades in prison on rebellion and other charges for staging a banned referendum in October 2017 and declaring Catalan independence. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue) A man holds a Spanish flag as Catalan pro-independence demonstrators wave an "estelada," or separatist flag and a ribbon, in support of Catalonian politicians who have been jailed on charges of sedition, as they arrive to Madrid, Spain, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Tens of thousands are marching Madrid in support of Catalan politicians and activists standing trial for an attempt to secede from Spain. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) NEW YORK (AP) - 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." President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, March 15, 2019, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) 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." 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 MEXICO CITY (AP) - Authorities say a Mexican radio journalist has been shot and killed in the northern state of Sonora. The state attorney's office says Santiago Barroso, 47, was sprayed with bullets upon answering a knock at the door of his home Friday evening. Barroso retreated inside and called for an ambulance. He died less than two hours later at a hospital from two bullet wounds to his stomach and one to his left clavicle. Barroso is at least the third journalist in Mexico to be murdered this year. The state attorney's office has opened an investigation. Mexico currently ranks seventh in the Committee to Protect Journalists' impunity index, which tallies the number of unsolved journalist murders as a percentage of a country's population in places where it's dangerous to work. CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK, Utah (AP) - Authorities say a 33-year-old University of Iowa graduate student found dead at Canyonlands National Park in southern Utah apparently fell 500 feet (152.4 meters) from an overlook. The San Juan County Sheriff's Office said Jonathan Hogue's body was found Friday at the base over the Green River Overlook following a search that began Tuesday. His car was found near the overlook in the park's Island in the Sky district. Hogue was described as an avid hiker known for going off trail and traveling long distances. Rahul accuses Mamata of running an autocracy, questions lack of farmers welfare during her rule. Kolkata: Kickstarting his Lok Sabha election campaign in West Bengal on Saturday, Congress president Rahul Gandhi accused chief minister Mamata Banerjee of running autocracy in the state. He questionned the unemployment and lack of farmers welfare during her rule while addressing a Congress rally at Chanchol in Malda. Mr Gandhi also pinned hope on the Congress to come to power in the state. His sharp attack on the Trinamul supremo in her turf comes two months after Ms Banerjees United India rally on January 19, which saw the presence of two Congress leaders. UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had showered lavish praise on her for trying to stich an anti-BJP alliance ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. The Trinamul, however, has fielded its candidates in all of the 42 seats in the state. The Congress has so far fielded 10 candidates leaving five for the Left Front over a seat-sharing formula which, however, failed. Equating Ms Banerjee with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr Gandhi said, On one hand Modiji keeps lying and on the other the chief minister makes promises here but nothing happens. In Bengal only one person runs the state without consulting or asking anyone. She does what comes to her mind. Doesnt Bengal have any voice? Shouldnt the people of Bengal have any voice? Should an individual run the state? The Congress workers are killed and beaten up here. We will see to it once the new government is formed in New Delhi. Mamataji spends the whole day giving lectures only, he said. The farmers of the nation and Bengal appeal for loan waiver from Mr Modi. But neither Mr Modi nor Arun Jaitley and not even Mamataji waived off these loans. Chowkidar promised of jobs and farmers welfare. Has anyone been benefitted by his rule or even Mamataji here? No one is here. Please tell me what development work Mamataji undertook here in the last couple of years. Has anyone got job? Has there been any welfare of farmers here? he asked the party workers at the rally. Without taking the name of two-time Congress MP of Maldah Uttar Mausam Benazir Noor, who recently defected to the Trinamul and even got a Trinamul ticket, Mr Gandhi claimed that she cheated the people. You have voted the Congress here. But this time a person has cheated you. Keep it in mind that an old Congress candidate fooled you, he said. Mr Gandhi said, Do not forget it. It is a battle of principles. That person cheated you after coming under pressure. This is a Congress bastion. Remind that person that no one can work in Bengal by cheating. Untill Congress comes to power in Bengal, the state can not see progress. We will devote our energy to ensure that Congress will fight and form government here. The Congress president also placed Mr Modi and Ms Banerjee on the same page over spreading falsehood and making hollow claims. He not only accused the PM of lying all day but also tore into him over his Chowkidar campaign. Mr Gandhi noted that only the rich have Chowkidar at their homes and the PM worked as Chowkidar for the industrialists. He claimed, Modiji tells lies all day in his speeches wherever he goes, be it on providing jobs to two crore people in a year or depositing Rs 15 lakhs in each Indians bank account or round-the-clock help to the farmers. You may remember that during the last Lok Sabha polls in 2014 he had declared that he did not want to become the PM. He said that all he wanted to do was to become a Chowkidar. Mr Gandhi sarcastically told the PM, After stealing and getting caught for theft a Chowkidar says: I am Chowkidar and the entire nation is Chowkidar. Modiji, try to understand one thing first. The poor do not have Chowkidar at their homes. Only the rich have Chowkidar at their residences. A Chowkidar is not found in the homes of a farmer, unemployed and small shopkeeper. But a Chowkidar can be found in Anil Ambanis house. Yes it is a fact you have worked as a Chowkidar. Mr Gandhi added, You worked as the Chowkidar of Anil Ambani, Mehul Choksi, Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya. Raising the Rafale aircraft deal he blamed Mr Modi of paying around Rs 30,000 crores to Anil Ambani-owned Reliance instead of the state-run Hindustan Aeronotical Limited which was contracted by the erstwhile UPA government led by the Congress. BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) - A former health minister of Azerbaijan who has been imprisoned for 12 years has been pardoned by the country's president. Ali Insanov was among 431 people pardoned or allotted reduced sentences Saturday by President Ilham Aliev ahead of the Nowruz new year's holiday. Insanov was arrested in 2005 and initially charged with plotting to overthrow the government. That charge was dropped, and in 2007 he was convicted of illegal privatization of state assets. Two years ago he was additionally convicted of harboring psychotropic substances while in prison and of scuffling with a prison employee. Insanov claimed the charges were cooked up to keep him imprisoned. Human rights groups considered him a political prisoner. SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. (AP) - Wildlife officials say they believe someone illegally separated two bear cubs from their mother and left the young animals along a Northern California highway. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says its investigators are processing evidence discovered with the cubs March 9 along State Route 96. Game wardens say they couldn't find the mother, so they took the cubs to be evaluated by wildlife veterinarians who determined they were healthy. The cubs were then transferred to a rehabilitation facility in South Lake Tahoe. Investigators from the department are seeking tips from the public. They said there are only a few hundred wildlife officers spread throughout California and they need help from residents to combat poaching. NEW YORK (AP) - In a story March 16 about an arrest in the killing of a reputed Gambino crime boss, The Associated Press erroneously reported where the victim was born. Francesco Cali was born in New York City, not in Sicily. A corrected version of the story is below: Suspect arrested in murder of reputed mob boss New York police say a man is in custody in the shooting death of the reputed Gambino crime family boss NEW YORK (AP) - A 24-year-old man was arrested Saturday in the shooting death of the reputed boss of the Gambino crime family, New York City police said. Anthony Comello was arrested in New Jersey in the death of Francesco Cali on Wednesday in front of his Staten Island home, said Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea, who stressed that the investigation is in its early stages. "There are multiple, multiple angles that we are exploring," Shea said at a news conference at police headquarters. "Was the person paid to do it? Were others conspiring to do this crime?" The 53-year-old Cali, a native New Yorker, was shot to death by a gunman who may have crashed his truck into Cali's car to lure him outside. Shea said Cali was shot 10 times. Shea said police have recovered the truck but have not recovered the gun used in the murder. Asked about Comello's arrest record, Shea said he "crossed paths in some limited circumstances with the NYPD" including getting a parking ticket on Staten Island the day Cali was killed. Comello will be extradited from New Jersey to New York to face charges, Shea said. Information on an attorney for Comello was not immediately available. Federal prosecutors referred to Cali in court filings in recent years as the underboss of the Mafia's Gambino family, once one of the most powerful crime organizations in the country. News accounts since 2015 said he had ascended to the top spot. Cali's 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. Police say they are still investigating whether Cali's murder was a mob hit or whether he was killed for some other motive. The last Mafia boss to be rubbed out in New York City was Gambino don "Big Paul" Castellano, who was assassinated while getting out of a black limousine outside a high-end Manhattan steakhouse in 1985. DETROIT (AP) - 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. Men leave the Islamic Cultural Center of New York under increased police security following the shooting in New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019, in New York. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan) 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 doesn't 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 they're at the masjid (mosque). It's where they bring their worries, their weaknesses, and try to speak to God. They're 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 year's 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 we're also armed on the other hand, not in a vigilante way ... I hope I'll 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 doesn't 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 they've 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, it's 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 it's important for the church not lose its open and welcoming environment. "We seek to not lose ourselves and our own purpose and who we're supposed to be as we react to the present dilemmas that we're 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, we've 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. People leave the Islamic Cultural Center of New York under increased police security following the shooting in New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019, in New York. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan) A woman leaves the Islamic Cultural Center of New York under increased police security following the shooting in New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019, in New York. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan) A woman arrives for service at the Islamic Cultural Center of New York under increased police security following the shooting in New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019, in New York. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan) BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) - Demonstrators protesting the autocratic rule of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic burst into state-run TV headquarters in Belgrade on Saturday to denounce a broadcaster whose reporting they consider highly biased. Helmeted and baton-wielding riot police arrived at the scene in the Serbian capital and tried to evict hundreds of people, including some opposition leaders, who had entered the downtown building. Some protest leaders said they won't leave until they are given time on the main evening news. There were reports of injuries during the scuffles. Thousands of opposition supporters who gathered in front of the building chanted to the police officers: "shame on you, arrest Vucic!" Serbian Interior Minister Nebojsa Stefanovic warned the protesters to leave the TV building or police would move in to "protect all Serbian TV journalists." Serbian Defense Minister Aleksandar Vulin told the pro-government Pink TV that the protesters are "fascists" who should be severely punished. 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. People march during a protest in Belgrade, Serbia, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Thousands of people have rallied in Serbia's capital for 15th week in a row against populist President Aleksandar Vucic and his government. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic) 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. People hold a banner that reads: ''#1 out of 5 million'' during a protest in Belgrade, Serbia, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Thousands of people have rallied in Serbia's capital for 15th week in a row against populist President Aleksandar Vucic and his government. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic) People hold a banner that reads: ''#1out of 5 million'' during a protest in Belgrade, Serbia, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Thousands of people have rallied in Serbia's capital for 15th week in a row against populist President Aleksandar Vucic and his government. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic) SKOPJE, North Macedonia (AP) - Police in North Macedonia say they have arrested a man suspected of smuggling five migrants from Greece, headed north toward Serbia. Police said Saturday that one Afghan citizen and four Pakistanis were discovered during a routine checkup on a car late Thursday on the main north-south highway. The suspect, a North Macedonian, was identified only by his initials as E.E. An investigative judge has ordered him detained for 30 days, pending trial. Trafficking migrants from Greece to wealthier western European countries is still happening in North Macedonia, even though the so-called Balkan route of migrant trafficking into Europe has been officially closed since mid-2015. RIVERSIDE, Calif. (AP) - A pilot has died after a small plane crashed into the backyard of a Southern California house. A spokesman for the Federal Aviation Administration said the twin-engine Beechcraft BE50 crashed in Riverside shortly before noon Saturday after the pilot reported engine issues. Riverside Fire Capt. Brian Guzzetta told the Press-Enterprise no one on the ground was injured and debris from the plane caused minor damage to nearby homes. Guzzetta said the plane caught on fire, and the flames did not spread to the house. FAA spokesman Ian Gregor said the plane was flying to the town of Apple Valley from Chino, located east of Los Angeles. The National Transportation and Safety Board will investigate the cause of the crash. HILLSBOROUGH, Calif. (AP) - A San Francisco Bay Area town is suing the owner of the quirky Flintstone House, alleging she violated local codes when she put dinosaur sculptures in the backyard and made other landscaping changes that caused local officials to declare it a public nuisance. The town of Hillsborough filed a complaint this week against Florence Fang, a media mogul who purchased the orange-and-purple, bulbous-shaped house in 2017. She began installing the large metal sculptures, a sign in the driveway that reads "Yabba Dabba Doo," figurines of characters from "The Flintstones" animated sitcom, a staircase, a parking strip, a deck and other additions to the front and backyard. In October, a code enforcement panel found the changes created "a highly visible eyesore and are out of keeping with community standards." The complaint was filed after she failed to comply with the panel's order to remove the features. Fang is a former publisher of The San Francisco Examiner. Her grandson said in a statement that his grandmother "will fight to save the Flintstone House." FILE - In this Feb. 19, 2004, file photo, James Fang, left, talks with his mother, Florence Fang, as president and publisher of The San Francisco Examiner and Independent newspapers Scott McKibben, second from right, announces The Anschutz Co. purchasing the newspapers from the Fang family at the Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco. A San Francisco Bay Area town is suing Florence Fang, the owner of the quirky Flintstone House, alleging she violated local codes when she put dinosaur sculptures in the backyard and made other landscaping changes that caused local officials to declare it a public nuisance. The town of Hillsborough filed a complaint this week against Fang, the media mogul who purchased the orange-and-purple, bulbous-shaped house in 2017. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File) "I think the dinosaurs are beautiful. They make everyone smile and should stay," Sean Fang said. LAS VEGAS (AP) - The Latest on a Las Vegas casino robbery (all times local): 3:10 p.m. Las Vegas police say a robbery suspect wounded during in a brief shootout with police outside the Bellagio hotel-casino on the Strip has died. An officer shot in his bulletproof vest escaped serious injury. Police Capt. Nichole Splinter said the suspect robbed the packed casino Friday night and was confronted by four officers as he tried to carjack a vehicle in the valet lot. Splinter said the suspect fired at least one shot at an officer before being shot by a second officer. She said the suspect's bullet hit the chest of the officer, whose vest probably saved his life. Las Vegas police respond to an officer-involved shooting in front of Bellagio on Friday, March 15, 2019, in Las Vegas. (Benjamin Hager/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP) A police spokesman, Officer Aden OcampoGomez, confirmed the suspect's death Saturday. No identities were released. Police did not disclose how much money the suspect took in the holdup. ___ 8:30 a.m. Police say a brief shootout outside the Bellagio hotel-casino on the Las Vegas Strip left a robbery suspect critically wounded while an officer who was shot in his bulletproof vest escaped serious injury. Police Capt. Nicole Splinter said the suspect robbed the packed casino Friday night and was confronted by four officers as he tried to carjack a vehicle in the valet lot. Splinter said the suspect fired at least one shot at an officer before being shot by a second officer. She said the suspect's bullet hit the chest of the officer whose vest probably saved his life. No identities were released and police did not disclose how much money the suspect took in the holdup. MANAGUA, Nicaragua (AP) - 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 Vatican's ambassador. Nicaragua's government banned opposition protests in September and police broke up Saturday's 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. Police detain protesters in Managua, Nicaragua, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Nicaragua's government banned opposition protests in September and police broke up Saturday's attempt at a demonstration to pressure the government to release hundreds of protesters held in custody since 2018. (AP Photo/Alfredo Zuniga) On Friday, Nicaragua's 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. Police detain protesters in Managua, Nicaragua, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Nicaragua's government banned opposition protests in September and police broke up Saturday's attempt at a demonstration to pressure the government to release hundreds of protesters held in custody since 2018. (AP Photo/Alfredo Zuniga) Police detain protesters in Managua, Nicaragua, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Nicaragua's government banned opposition protests in September and police broke up Saturday's attempt at a demonstration to pressure the government to release hundreds of protesters held in custody since 2018. (AP Photo/Alfredo Zuniga) Young men wave national flags during a protest demanding the government release hundreds of protesters held in custody since 2018, in Managua, Nicaragua, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Nicaragua's government banned opposition protests in September and police broke up Saturday's attempt at a demonstration. (AP Photo/Alfredo Zuniga) A protester ties a kerchief around her face during a protest demanding the government release hundreds of protesters held in custody since 2018, in Managua, Nicaragua, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Nicaragua's government banned opposition protests in September and police broke up Saturday's attempt at a demonstration. (AP Photo/Alfredo Zuniga) Attack came after PM sent his best wishes to Khan on Pak National Day, which is celebrated to mark Lahore Resolution on Mar 23 each year. New Delhi: Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending best wishes to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the countrys National Day, the Congress on Saturday said the Prime Minister should stop writing love letters to Pakistan. Official sources had said on Friday that Mr Modi sent a letter to Mr Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala alleged that the PMs muscular politics was aimed at only the people and the media and asked him to stop writing love letters to Pakistan. Mr 56 of the Sari-Shawl-Impromptu Pak visit for Birthday-ISI invite fame diplomacy was feeling very shy yesterday. Guess? Chowkidar hid the fact that he had wished Pakistan Prime Minister on Pakistan National Day without a word on Pak terrorism. Muscular politics soap opera for people and media only, Mr Surjewala said on Twitter. Modi ji, Stop writing this Love Letter to Pakistan, he added. The Congress chief spokesperson also posted a video of Mr Modis interview to a channel where the former Gujarat chief minister during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) time is saying Pakistan needs to be talked to in the language it understands and that writing love letters to it should be stopped. He was referring to then Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs letter to then Pakistan President. India on Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission to mark Pakistans National Day as several separatists leaders from Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have been invited to the event. ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) - The University of Michigan says popping balloons may have sparked an "active shooter" alert at a building in the middle of campus. In a statement late Saturday, the university says authorities received up to 20 calls about shots being fired at Mason Hall. The reports came during a nearby vigil for those killed in the mosque shootings in New Zealand. Alerts issued by the school's Department of Public Safety and Security around 5 p.m. told students who were near Mason Hall to "run, hide, fight." About 40 minutes later, the university sent another alert saying there "does not appear to be an active threat to the community." Authorities confirmed there was "balloon popping activity" in the area where reports emerged about shots being fired. The school says there was no "malicious intent" behind the activity. ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - Ignacio Piatti scored two goals on Saturday and the Montreal Impact beat Orlando City 3-1. Oriji Okwonkwo gave the Impact (2-1-0) the lead in the 14th minute with his first MLS goal. Piatti added another Impact goal a minute later, capitalizing on a defensive miscue as Orlando's Shane O'Neill misplayed a pass following the kickoff. Piatti eluded Sacha Kljestan with a cutback and slotted home a right-footed shot to make it 3-0 in the 80th minute. Dom Dwyer scored with a sliding finish into an open net to pull one back for Orlando City (0-1-2) in the 91st minute. Montreal's Zakaria Diallo was shown a red card in the 96th minute after contact with Dwyer. LINDEN, Ala. (AP) - An African-American woman who took over the helm of a small-town Alabama newspaper that recently called for the Ku Klux Klan to "ride again" has stepped down after a few weeks, citing interference from the newspaper's owner. Elecia R. Dexter told The New York Times on Friday that she stepped down because of continuing interference from the newspaper's owner who had published the KKK editorial. Dexter said she wanted to maintain her "integrity and well-being." "I would have liked it to turn out a different way, but it didn't," Dexter, 46, told the newspaper. "This is a hard one because it's sad - so much good could have come out of this." Dexter last month replaced Goodloe Sutton as editor and publisher of the Democrat-Reporter of Linden. Dexter took over after a firestorm erupted when Sutton wrote and published an editorial that began: "Time for the Ku Klux Klan to night ride again." The editorial said Democrats and "Democrats in the Republican Party" are plotting to raise taxes, so the Klan should raid their communities. It was one of many incendiary and racially insensitive editorials published by the paper. Dexter's appointment was heralded as a positive in the small Alabama town. She said she hoped her appointment would let the community know "this is everybody's paper." FILE - In this Feb. 21, 2019, file photo, Goodloe Sutton, publisher of the Democrat-Reporter newspaper, speaks during an interview at the newspaper's office in Linden, Ala. Elecia R. Dexter, an African-American woman who took over the helm of the small-town Alabama newspaper a few weeks, told The New York Times on Friday, March 15, that she stepped down because of continuing interference from the newspaper's owner who had published the KKK editorial. Dexter said she wanted to maintain her "integrity and well-being." (Mickey Welsh/The Montgomery Advertiser via AP, File) But Dexter told the Times that Sutton, who had retained ownership of the paper, had continually interfered in operations. Sutton did not respond to the Times' requests for comment Friday. The paper dates to 1879 and its editorials are consistently conservative and often critical of Democrats. The use of "Democrat" in its name reflects back to the period when nearly all white conservatives in the South were Democrats. FONTANA, Calif. (AP) - Four drivers have earned a victory in the first four weeks of what's shaping up as a competitive NASCAR Cup Series season. Only two teams have reached Victory Lane, however. Two other giants of the sport are eager to join them. Stewart-Haas Racing and Hendrick Motorsports are still looking for their first wins of the year heading into Sunday's race at Fontana. Plenty of uncertainty still exists around NASCAR's new racing rules package as the West Coast Swing wraps up at Auto Club Speedway, but the trailing teams believe they're starting to figure it out. While cars fielded by Joe Gibbs Racing and Team Penske have made quick adjustments to the new rules, Hendrick and Southern California's own Jimmie Johnson are still trying to bounce back from a slow start. They're hoping for a boost on this familiar weathered asphalt one hour east of Los Angeles, where Johnson has won six times. "There are tracks that a driver can make a difference at," said Johnson, who hasn't won anywhere since June 2017. "This track has been one. The one thing that is so different right now is we're back to a package we've run two other times this year. We're on a high-wear track. I look at Atlanta. It did not go well. "Atlanta is similar to this place, so I'm hopeful that we've made our car better since Atlanta for this type of environment. That's what I think the whole Hendrick Motorsports crowd is focused on right now." Stewart-Haas also appears to be making progress. Kevin Harvick was the fastest in the second practice Saturday in his Ford Mustang, and the California native is counting on his familiarity with Fontana to help Sunday, even while every driver attempts to figure out how their cars are working under the rules package. "I think in the last three weeks, you have seen the veteran guys shine," said Harvick, who starts second on Sunday. "I used to tell Danica Patrick this all the time, 'I have 25 years on you, and you will never catch up.' And that is the truth. Experience matters, more so in our sport than maybe any other sport. The knowledge of the race track, things you have been through, things you have done." Here are more things to watch at Auto Club Speedway: KYLE'S TIME Although Kyle Busch lost the Xfinity Series race Saturday thanks to a poor late pit stop , he has a chance to make history Sunday regardless of the results of Saturday's Xfinity Series race. The 33-year-old Busch arrived at Fontana with 199 career victories after sweeping both races in Phoenix, and Richard Petty holds NASCAR's career record with 200 wins. The King did it all in the top series, while Busch's wins are scattered across NASCAR's top three series. Differences aside, Busch's achievement will be praised by his fellow drivers when he crosses the mark. UNQUALIFIED DRIVERS Austin Dillon starts on the pole after one of the weirdest qualifying sessions in recent Cup Series history . No drivers completed a lap in the final round of qualifying because every car waited too long to start driving in hopes of being the final car in a group. The singular importance of drafting under the new rules package was the reason for the embarrassing session, but the drivers all realize starting track position isn't incredibly important in this long race. FROM THE BACK Martin Truex Jr. won this race last year by a whopping 11.685 seconds over Kyle Larson, but that was before the new rules package designed to prevent any car from pulling away from the field. Truex qualified in 27th on Friday, but was fast in practice on Saturday. He also finished second behind Kyle Busch last week in Phoenix. NEW RULES The cars will have tapered spacers to reduce horsepower, and aero ducts will be used along with larger spoilers. Responding to the results of a tire test here in January, they'll also have more durable tires on the right side because rubber wears out quickly in Fontana. The rules changes haven't yet led to frantic racing and constant passing, but it could happen this weekend - particularly on restarts, which are usually entertaining at Fontana because of the five-wide capability on the old track. LONG TIME COMING Johnson has gone 63 starts without a win, while fellow Californian Kyle Larson has gone 50 starts without grabbing a checkered flag. But Larson has seven second-place finishes in that stretch, and here at Fontana in 2017. ___ More AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/tag/apf-AutoRacing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports ANETH, Utah (AP) - A search continued Saturday along the San Juan River on the Utah portion of the Navajo Nation for a 3-year-old girl missing since late Thursday. The Navajo Nation Police Department said in a statement on Facebook that over 100 volunteers searched for Andanndine Jones on foot along 8 miles (12.87 kilometers) of the riverbed west of Aneth while boat crews from county, state and federal agencies covered 24 miles (39 kilometers) of the river. Andanndine Jones reportedly wandered away from her home. Initial search efforts focused along a creek that feeds into the San Juan. The river is a tributary of the Colorado River and flows into Lake Powell. ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) - Protesters repeatedly shouted "shame" as a northern Virginia county board Saturday unanimously approved a $23 million incentives package for Amazon to build a new headquarters there. The Arlington County Board's 5-0 vote came after hours of heated public testimony, news outlets reported. Supporters said Amazon's plan to build a massive facility in Crystal City will lead to tens of thousands of good jobs and bring in hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue. Opponents, however, said the tech giant neither needs nor deserves public subsidies. They also said lower-income residents would be driven out by rising rents. "This vote today is about racial justice," Danny Cendejas, a member of the La ColectiVA advocacy group, said, according to WRC-TV . "We have been talking to folks in communities of color, immigrant communities. We have been hearing consistently the concerns about gentrification." The Washington Post reported that in response to concerns about increased rents, traffic congestion and school overcrowding, Board Chair Christian Dorsey said, "I am confident we can manage those impacts." Amazon plans to create at least 25,000 jobs over 12 years in the Washington suburb. The state of Virginia has already approved a $750 million incentives package for the company. FILE - This Nov. 13, 2018, file photo shows a sign of a street map for Crystal City neighborhood of Arlington, Va. Protesters repeatedly shouted "shame" as a northern Virginia county board Saturday unanimously approved a $23 million incentives package for Amazon to build a new headquarters there. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen, File) During the meeting, activists grew outraged after they were not allowed to ask questions to the Amazon officials who had given testimony. Washington resident Chris Otten shouted that a vote should not be permitted and yelled profanities at a pro-Amazon attendee who he said cursed at him. That prompted police and security personnel to physically remove Otten, who screamed as he was carried out. He was charged with disorderly conduct. Otten told the Associated Press that he had recently broken his wrist and was in pain from being "strong-armed" out of the building. Calling from a hospital where he was undergoing precautionary X-rays, Otten said the county should be focused on using its funds to help the neediest. "It's sad when you hear the board say they don't have the resources to help people who are in need now, but then they give out millions and millions to a company that doesn't need that sort of help," Otten said. "It's corporate welfare over social need." Board Vice Chair Libby Garvey said she is excited for the future of Arlington County 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." In November, Amazon selected New York City and Crystal City as the winners of a secretive, yearlong process in which more than 230 North American cities bid to become the home of the Seattle-based company's second headquarters. Amazon last month abandoned its New York City headquarters plan amid pushback from politicians and activists who were angry about the tax breaks that had been offered as well as the company's anti-union stance. CANBERRA, Australia (AP) - Australia's prime minister on Sunday suggested an anti-Muslim senator should be charged after he slapped a teen who cracked a raw egg over the legislator's head. Sen. Fraser Anning has been widely condemned for blaming Muslim immigration for racist attacks on two New Zealand mosques that claimed at least 50 lives. Will Connolly, the 17-year-old boy who egged Anning, has become an online hero for the incident, which was captured on video. Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Sunday took Connolly's side, telling reporters: "The full force of the law should be applied to Sen. Anning." Police allege Connolly, who calls himself "Egg Boy" online, assaulted the senator with the egg. Anning "retaliated and struck the teen twice" before Connolly was dragged to the ground by Anning supporters, a police statement said. In this image made from video, a teenager breaks an egg on the head of Senator Fraser Anning while he holds a press conference, Saturday, March 16, 2019, in Melbourne, New Zealand. Following the mass shootings on Friday, Anning came under sharp criticism over tweets including one that said: "Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence?" (AP Photo) "The incident is being actively investigated by Victoria Police in its entirety," the statement said, including Anning's actions. 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 later statement. Anning has now been assigned a federal police security detail, a precaution usually reserved for the prime minister. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern for the first time on Sunday joined the public condemnation of Anning. Asked by a journalist what she thought of Anning's comments, she replied simply: "They're a disgrace." A GoFundMe page set up to raise 2,000 Australia dollars ($1,400) to pay for Connolly's "legal fees" and "more eggs" had exceeded AU$25,000 on Sunday. The site says most of the money will go to Christchurch victims. "Love the spunk of egg boy who puts his egg where we'd like it to be!" donor Val Lehmann-Monck posted. "This kid is awesome. The senator will not get re-elected due to the publicity and those comments and his reaction," donor Nikhil Reddy wrote. After the egging, Anning supporters pinned Connolly to the ground until journalists appealed for him to be allowed back on his feet, The Sun-Herald newspaper reported. Far-right activist Neil Erikson, who was involved in tackling Connolly, shouted for reporters to be removed from the area. "Get the journalists out of here ... If you don't like, get out," Erikson was quoted as saying. Police say they arrested Connolly, took his details and then released him without charge. Connolly urged his online followers not to follow his example. "Don't egg politicians. You get tackled by 30 bogans at the same time," he said in a video, using Australian slang for a poor, ignorant white person. "I learnt the hard way," he added. In this image made from video, a teenager breaks an egg on the head of Senator Fraser Anning while he holds a press conference, Saturday, March 16, 2019, in Melbourne, New Zealand. Following the mass shootings on Friday, Anning came under sharp criticism over tweets including one that said: "Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence?" (AP Photo) QUETTA, Pakistan (AP) - Police in Pakistan say a bomb explosion aboard a moving train has killed at least three passengers and wounded seven others in the country's volatile southwest. Officer Abdullah Jamali says the bomb went off in one of the cars of a Quetta-bound train early Sunday, damaging five cars. He says two men and a woman were killed, and that women and children were among the wounded. No one claimed responsibility, but ethnic Baluch separatists have attacked trains in the past. The southwestern Baluchistan province has been the scene of a low-level separatist insurgency for well over a decade. The separatists accuse the central government of unfairly exploiting the region's gas and mineral wealth. New Zealands most senior Muslim police officer broke down in tears as she addressed a vigil for the Christchurch terror attack victims. Forty-nine people were killed in the attacks on two mosques in the city by a white supremacist. A clearly emotional Superintendent Naila Hassan told thousands of people at the vigil in Auckland: I am a proud Muslim and I am a leader in the NZ Police and I am horrified at the events in Christchurch. I know this is a very, very distressing time for our Muslim community in particular, but to everyone in our communities, she said. We want to reassure everyone we are doing everything we can to ensure the victims of this devastating attack are treated with the utmost respect. I want our Muslim community in particular to know, and the people of Christchurch to know, that we stand with you and we all share in your grief and in your pain. Superintendent Naila Hassan speaking to the crowd in Auckland (New Zealand Police) We, the New Zealand Police, will do everything we can to support our wider community and in particular our Muslim communities, she said. She concluded by saying inshallah, an Arabic phrase meaning God willing. Theresa May has warned MPs that if they fail to back her Brexit deal at the third time of asking then Brussels might insist on a lengthy delay, potentially scuppering chances of leaving the European Union altogether. The Prime Minister said it would be a potent symbol of Parliaments collective political failure if a delay to Brexit meant the UK was forced to take part in Mays European elections almost three years after voting to leave. She warned that if MPs did not back her deal before Thursdays European Council summit we will not leave the EU for many months, if ever. Mrs May acknowledged that even if her deal is passed before the summit of EU leaders the Government would need a short technical extension beyond the scheduled March 29 Brexit date. That is not an ideal outcome we could and should have been leaving the EU on March 29, she said. But it is something the British people would accept if it led swiftly to delivering Brexit. Theresa May is warning against a long Brexit delay that would see the UK elect new MEPs (EPTV) The alternative if Parliament cannot agree the deal by that time is much worse. Writing in the Sunday Telegraph she said her fellow leaders would demand a clear purpose for a longer extension that was not merely a technical delay to allow legislation to pass. In a message aimed at MPs seeking rival versions of Brexit she said: 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 United Kingdom to participate in the European Parliament elections in May. 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. All this makes the choice now facing MPs clearer than it has ever been. If Parliament can find a way to back the Brexit deal before European Council, the UK will leave the EU this spring, without having to take part in the European elections, and we can get on with building our future relationship with the EU. If it cannot, we will not leave the EU for many months, if ever. In an appeal to MPs to back her deal, she said: I know that I will have to do more to convince others, as well as the DUP, if I am to succeed in finally securing a majority for the deal. That remains my goal. It is the only way through the current impasse. The possibility of Brexit being delayed or overturned in a second referendum is swinging some Eurosceptics reluctantly behind the deal ahead of a third vote on the package. Backbench rebel Daniel Kawczynski publicly indicated he will now back the Prime Ministers plan. But so far the number of Tories publicly switching positions has amounted to a trickle rather than the flood the Prime Minister needs to overturn the 149-vote defeat for the deal she suffered on Tuesday. Shrewsbury and Atcham MP Mr Kawczynski acknowledged that the Prime Ministers deal was now the only game in town. Constituents fed up with infighting in both Parties.Parliament voted this week to take no deal from table (mistake in my view)) No other deal can get through Commons so Mrs Mays Deal is only game in town. Do we continue to obstruct & risk no Brexit? I doubt I can take that risk Daniel Kawczynski (@DKShrewsbury) March 16, 2019 His comments came after former cabinet minister Esther McVey, who resigned over the Brexit deal, suggested she and other MPs could now back it, even though it was rubbish and North Wiltshire MP James Gray appealed to fellow members of the Brexiteer European Research Group (ERG) to get the obnoxious deal over the line. But other ERG figures played down the prospect of large numbers getting behind the deal when it is brought back for a vote. Meanwhile, talks continued with the DUP, but the party stressed that the presence of Chancellor Philip Hammond at a meeting on Friday did not mean that money was being demanded. 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, a spokesman said. Contrary to some reports we are not discussing cash. There are still issues to be addressed in our discussions. Jeremy Corbyn has offered talks with opposition leaders and backbench MPs in an effort to find a Brexit compromise which could replace Mrs Mays plan. Labour is expected to throw its weight behind an amendment tabled by backbenchers Peter Kyle and Phil Wilson which would make support for the Brexit deal conditional on a referendum. This decision comes four days after Kamal Nath's challenge to Digvijaya Singh to contest from the 'toughest' seat in the upcoming polls. Congress leader Digvijaya Singh will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath said on Saturday. (Photo: File) Bhopal: Congress leader Digvijaya Singh will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath said on Saturday. "I had asked Digvijaya Singh to contest from Bhopal and he immediately agreed. Even during the meeting with Congress high command, his name was suggested," Nath said during an event. "I hope people will support him." This ends speculation that Singh could contest from Rajgarh seat, which he had represented in 1984 and 1991. In Madhya Pradesh, polling will be conducted in four stages during phase four, five, six and seven scheduled on April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. Madhya Pradesh has a total of 29 Lok Sabha constituencies. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP had won from 27 constituencies while Congress bagged two seats. Two men have died following separate road crashes in Co Antrim. The PSNI said the incidents both happened on Saturday morning. One man died after the car he was driving left the carriageway at Ballyhill Road near Nutts Corner shortly before 8.25am. Two men have died following road traffic collisions at Ballynure and Nutts Corner this morning. The A8 carriageway and the Ballyhill Road have now both re-opened and police are asking witnesses or anyone with dash-cam footage of either collision to contact 101 Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) March 16, 2019 The other man died after his car collided with a stationary lorry on the Belfast bound A8 dual carriageway at around 7.50am. Both roads have since re-opened. Chief Inspector Neil Beck said: Officers are working to establish the circumstances surrounding both tragic fatal collisions. The PSNI are appealing for witnesses after two men died in separate road crashes in Co Antrim (Niall Carson/PA Wire) I would appeal to anyone who witnessed either collision or who has dash-cam footage to contact police at Antrim or Larne on 101. 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. 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. 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. The Democratic Unionist Party has denied that extra cash for Northern Ireland is forming part of the Brexit deal discussions. Talks between the DUP and the UK Government continued on Saturday with the party saying there were still issues to be discussed with ministers about the deal and the contentious Irish backstop measures. It comes as UK Prime Minister Theresa May continues her efforts to win support for her Brexit deal. 1. If Philip Hammond's presence at the talks with the DUP is an indication that the Tories are offering the DUP another bung In return for their support for May's Brexit Deal, I am warning the PM that she is in danger of destroying all confidence in our political system. John McDonnell MP (@johnmcdonnellMP) March 16, 2019 The party stressed that the presence of Chancellor Philip Hammond at a meeting on Friday did not mean that money was an issue. 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, a DUP spokesman said. Contrary to some reports we are not discussing cash. Emma Little Pengelly, deputy leader Nigel Dodds and Gavin Robinson (Victoria Jones/PA) There are still issues to be addressed in our discussions. More talks are expected to take place with the DUP in the coming days. Mrs May knows that winning support from the DUP could lead to her deal being approved by MPs in the House of Commons next week, after it was rejected for the second time on Tuesday. 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. 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. 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. 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. A blast of wintry weather affecting most parts of the UK is to be short lived with sunshine and showers expected from Sunday. In some areas there could even be temperatures of around 18C (64F) by Thursday as high pressure will settle the weather which affected many on Saturday. Snow caused problems for travellers in Scotland with the Met Office issuing yellow warnings until the evening, with an ice warning into the early hours of Sunday. Much of Scotland, Northern Ireland and the north east of England were to be affected, while wind and rain was forecast for Wales with high winds expected on the south coast. A tourist takes a photograph during strong winds on Westminster Bridge (Victoria Jones/PA) Met Office adviser Marco Petagna said: Therell be an icy start (on Sunday) for many northern and northwestern areas before a day of sunshine and showers. Most of the showers will be in the north and west where locally heavy and with some thunder. Therell be some snow too on hills above about 200 or 300 metres, although no significant settling expected. Itll be feeling cold in the fresh to strong west to northwest wind, with gales in the north east of the UK. Sunday will be a day of #sunshine and #showers with a mixture of #hail and #thunder. Don't be surprised if you see some #snow over the hilltops pic.twitter.com/pD7qyfEgQA Met Office (@metoffice) March 16, 2019 He added there would be highs 7C to 11C but it would be notably colder in the south than on Saturday. Ahead of next week Mr Petagna also said: High pressure will settle the weather down in the south and east. A lot of dry weather with some sunshine during the day, patchy low cloud/fog and frost overnight. Temperatures are on the rise by the day, we could see 16C or 17C on Wednesday and perhaps 18C on Thursday in the sunnier spots. Meanwhile the far north and west of the UK will continue to see some cloudier spells with patchy rain and it will also stay windy at times in the far northwest. Heavy snow fell in parts of Northumberland overnight, covering part of the A1 and Alnwick Castle (Owen Humphreys/PA) Police Scotland issued a warning to motorists as road conditions worsened on Saturday morning. As much as 10cm of snow was expected to fall on higher ground with strong gusts of 45mph to even 65mph in some costal areas. Elsewhere heavy snow fell in parts of Northumberland overnight, covering part of the A1 at Alnwick. A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged over the death of a chef in Edinburgh. Lionel Simenya, originally from Burundi, died after being found on Fords Road in the citys Saughton area around 3.50am on March 7. The 36-year-old had won an award as a chef since moving to the Scottish capital. On Saturday police said a man had been arrested in connection with the death. The 22-year-old was also charged and is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday. A 21-year-old man arrested on Friday has since been released. Irish premier Leo Varadkar will meet European Council president Donald Tusk next week in Dublin to consider any requests from the UK to delay Brexit. The Taoiseach has already revealed how he spoke to DUP leader Arlene Foster about the partys talks with the Conservative Government. He hinted that the pair were both against a no-deal Brexit, but did not discuss details. Speaking during his annual US St Patricks Day Tour, Mr Varadkar said: President Tusk will come to Dublin on Tuesday for meetings with me, in advance of the European Council summit later in the week, to consider any requests that come from the UK at that point for an extension. On Wednesday at our Cabinet meeting we will be in position to sign off on a package of supports for businesses, for farmers, for the agri-food sector and for anyone who may be adversely affected by a no-deal Brexit. Obviously we are hoping the deal will be ratified in the House of Commons before then, but if its not we are ready. Weve already passed the legislation to provide for a no-deal Brexit, we have the Common Travel Area and this package of measures to support incomes and jobs. Its not going to be a case of everything being all right, Brexit is bad news. President of the European Council Donald Tusk (Rick Findler/PA) On Friday evening Mr Varadkar said US president Donald Trump could visit Ireland as early as June as part of his trip to Europe. But closer to home he said he hoped his discussions with Mr Tusk could help avoid a rolling extension. He added: I will have a chance to speak to him in more detail at that point and I would hope that things over the next couple of days may become a bit clearer in terms of what Westminster wants and what the British Government wants. Ive always said that what I would like to avoid is a rolling extension, where there is an extension every few months, that would just add to uncertainty and wouldnt solve the problem. There seems to be two emerging possibilities, one would be the ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement by Westminster followed by a short extension into the summer which would allow them time to pass the necessary legislation or potentially a much longer extension of up to two years and the purpose of that would be to allow other options to be considered, for example participation in Customs Union. Mr Varadkar took part in Chicagos St Patricks Day parade on Saturday, alongside surprise guest UFC star Conor McGregor. Everyone is equal before the law regardless of who they love, Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said. Days after Mr Varadkar delivered his anti-discrimination speech at a meeting with US vice president Mike Pence, the Taoiseach said he wanted to express Irelands values. Mr Pence, who has a history of anti-gay policies, hosted the breakfast meeting with Mr Varadkar and his partner Dr Matt Barrett on Thursday. Mr Varadkar is Irelands first openly gay leader and one of very few openly gay national leaders in the world. The Taoiseach is on an official visit to the United States (Brian Lawless/PA) Speaking in Chicago on the final day of his St Patricks tour, the Taoiseach said he was not nervous about delivering the strong message. He said: I gave consideration about what I was going to say and how I was going to say it. Ultimately Matt and I were guests in his home, so I wanted to make sure that what I had to say was respectful and I hope it came across that way, (and) at the same time expressing what are now Irelands values, that everyone is equal before the law regardless of their religion or lack thereof, their gender, the colour of their skin or who they love. I dont really take him (Matt) to official events, he has his own life and his own career and doesnt particularly enjoy coming along to events as my plus-one unless its a match or a concert, but when we got the invitation from the Pences it was different and he felt it was an invitation that he wanted to accept. Mr Varadkar has extended an invitation to Mr Pence and his wife, Karen, when they visit Ireland. They are a family with really genuine Irish connection to Co Sligo and to Co Clare, the Taoiseach added. He said that Ireland has made progress on womens issues following last years historic referendum on the countrys abortion laws. Unfortunately in America I think things are so polarised, people watching different news channels and shouting at each other, refusing to engage with each other, and maybe we did it a bit differently in Ireland, he added. The death toll from the New Zealand mosque attacks has risen to 50, authorities said. A further 50 people suffered injuries in the mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch during midday prayers on Friday, New Zealand police commissioner Mike Bush said. Thirty-four victims remain in Christchurch Hospital, with 12 of them in intensive care. A four-year-old girl taken to Starship Hospital in Auckland remains in a critical condition, New Zealand Police said. At a press conference on Sunday morning New Zealand time, Mr Bush said: It is with sadness that I advise that the number of people who have died in this awful event has now risen to 50. 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. 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 will follow. He appeared to have live-streamed the terror attack and outlined his anti-immigrant motives in a manifesto posted online. A search of a property on Somerville Street in Dunedin was completed with a number of items of interest found but none that would present harm to members of the public were discovered, New Zealand Police said. 36 people remain in hospital in Canterbury District, being treated for injuries. Eleven of those are in a critical condition. In addition, the four-year-old child transported to Starship Hospital in Auckland yesterday remains in a critical condition. New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 16, 2019 New Zealand Police also said two people arrested after the attacks are not believed to be involved with one released and another charged with a separate offence. The force said another person has been taken into custody due to evidence collected during the investigation but there is no information to suggest they are linked to the attacks. Mr Bush said the shooter obtained a legitimate firearms licence in 2017 in New Zealand, adding that it was quite obvious the gunman had modified a category A firearm. New Zealands Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has vowed to change the countrys gun laws in the wake of the shooting spree that stunned the world. Ms Ardern 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. 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 The wounded four-year-old girl was named as Elin by her uncle Sabri Daraghmeh, who told reporters in a phone call from Jordan on Saturday that she was in the danger phase. 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. The majority of the injured patients are male aged 30 to 40, while two of them are boys aged two and 13, said Greg Robertson, chief of surgery at Christchurch 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. The 50th victim was located at the mosque on Deans Avenue on Sunday morning, New Zealand Police said. 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. An injured man is taken to hospital (AP) He said victims families would be supported by a very large contingent of ethnic liaison officers working with religious leaders and other religious support people. He added: There is so much outpouring of grief and we have to support those people and meet their needs. Police will stand guard outside all mosques across New Zealand that choose to open their doors, the force said. 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. Jeremy Corbyn has written to MPs backing soft Brexit plans as well as supporters of a second referendum, inviting them for talks to find a cross-party compromise. The Labour leader called for urgent meetings to find a solution that ends the needless uncertainty and worry caused by Prime Minister Theresa Mays failed Brexit negotiations. He said Labours credible plans would form the starting point for any discussions, but he was keen to find common ground with supporters of other plans. The offer has been extended to SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable, DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds, Plaids Liz Saville Roberts and Green MP Caroline Lucas. Backbench MPs invited for talks with Mr Corbyn and shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer include Labours Peter Kyle and Phil Wilson, who have put forward a plan for the Commons to allow the Prime Ministers Brexit deal to go through, subject to a referendum. Senior Labour backbenchers Yvette Cooper, Hilary Benn and Rachel Reeves have also been offered talks, along with Tories Ken Clarke and Nicky Morgan. Invitations have also been sent to Sir Oliver Letwin, Nick Boles, Stephen Kinnock and Lucy Powell the Tory and Labour MPs behind a push for a Norway-style soft Brexit inside the single market with a customs union. The Labour leader said Mrs Mays failures had caused needless uncertainty and worry (Kirsty OConnor/PA) Labours Jack Dromey and Tory former minister Dame Caroline Spelman, who led Commons efforts to reject a no-deal Brexit, have also been offered a meeting. Mr Corbyn said: Labour has set out credible options as to how we propose to break the deadlock and avoid a disastrous no-deal. This includes putting forward an alternative Brexit plan with a permanent customs union, single market deal and dynamic alignment on rights and protections. We have also said that we would support a public vote to prevent damaging Brexit proposals being forced on the country. We would obviously use that position as a starting point for any discussions, but we would like to hear about the plans you are advocating, and we are keen to see if there is scope to find common ground between our respective proposals and to work together to break the impasse. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of lying all day. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the state will be between ideologies. (File Photo) Malda: Launching his partys poll campaign in West Bengal, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he makes only fake promises and lies to the people. Rahul Gandhi drew a comparison between the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and PM Modi in the rally. Addressing his maiden poll rally in West Bengal's Malda, he said, "Did the youth get employment, did the farmers receive any help? Like Modi, Mamata Banerjee makes only fake promises and lies to the people. Rahul said the Congress workers are beaten up in West Bengal and added, let our government to power in Delhi, then you shall see what happens. He went on to add, On the one hand, Narendra Modi ji lies and on the other hand, your Chief Minister (Mamata Banerjee) keeps on making promises but nothing happens... Mamata has done nothing for the state. She just gives long speeches. Everyone knows about Bengal...the state is running for just one person. Rahul expressed confidence that the Congress will form the government in West Bengal in the next Assembly polls. The Congress President also took a jibe at Modi's 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign, saying he is watchman only for the rich people as the poor people do not need guards. "In 2014, chowkidar (a reference to Modi) said, I do not want to be the Prime Minister, I want to become a 'chowkidar'. After being caught on his lies, he says we all are 'chowkidar'. Modi ji, the poor do not keep 'chowkidars'. Only the rich people do. Modi should know that watchmen are not found in the houses of the poor but only at the residences of rich people like Anil Ambani. Rahul also said that the BJP spreads hatred, while his Congress party speaks about brotherhood. "We bring all religions together and talk about brotherhood, while the BJP spreads hatred among people in forms of language and religion, he said. He also said that the Congress has decided to introduce a minimum income guarantee scheme, if it comes to power in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Under the proposed scheme, a certain amount will be directly deposited in the accounts of the beneficiaries. "We will fight poverty through minimum income guarantee," he added. West Bengal will have polling in all seven phases of the elections which begin on April 11 and conclude on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. The funding of mental health care for Scotlands prisoners must be increased after the number of self-harm incidents skyrocketed, an MSP has said. Figures show there were 762 incidents in 2018, compared to 532 in the previous year a jump of 43%. These include burns, cuts, attempted suicide, ligature, overdoses and swallowing items. The highest number was at HMP & YOI Grampian in the north east. It recorded 175 incidents in 2018, with 138 of those categorised as cuts. Of the 762 total incidents recorded across Scotland, 517 were for cuts. A total of 72 incidents in Scotland were categorised under swallows item, 41 for overdose and 31 as attempted suicide. An FOI by the Scottish Liberal Democrats shows the number of self-harming incidents has increased (Paul Faith/PA) The figures were published following a Freedom of Information request made by the Scottish Liberal Democrats. The partys justice spokesman, Liam McArthur MSP, said: Incident numbers have been on an upward trajectory for years but last year they skyrocketed. The scale of self-harm in Scotlands prisons is devastating. This must prompt serious new investment in prison mental health care. Prison staff are working incredibly hard but they dont have the resources or staff they need. It has been two years since the Scottish Government accepted Scottish Liberal Democrat proposals to expand the mental health workforce in prisons. However, so far there are just two new staff across Scotlands 15 prisons. Ministers still cant tell us how many extra staff there will be in the end. Staff, prisoners and the communities they return to have every right to demand better. We need more mental health professionals deployed in our prisons now. This will help save lives. A Scottish Government spokesman said: We recognise that people entering the criminal justice system often have complex needs. This is why in recent years SPS (Scottish Prisons Service) have improved reporting procedures and awareness of the risks of self-harm among prison staff, ensuring that cases are properly recorded and appropriate care and support are provided. SPS are working closely with NHS staff, responsible for mental healthcare provision in Scotlands prisons. In addition, HMIPS is currently carrying out a review of mental health services at HMP YOI Polmont and a review of forensic services, which will include provision in the prison estate, was announced last week. The learning and recommendations from these reviews will inform our approach in the future. Through our 10-year Mental Health Strategy, we are delivering an increase in support for the mental health needs of people detained in prison. The strategy aims to increase the overall mental health workforce by 800 additional staff, with prisons also benefiting from this enhanced workforce. This is supported by investment rising to 35 million by 2021-22. The mental health staffing model in each prison is determined by each NHS Board and any changes will be monitored jointly with the SPS. A village is to mark 50 years since a lifeboat disaster which devastated the small community. Eight men from Longhope on Orkney were lost when their boat capsized in a fierce storm on March 17, 1969. The volunteer RNLI crew covering one of the wildest outposts of the lifeboat network met their deaths while going to the assistance of a Liberian-registered cargo ship. Longhope lost a quarter of its population, with seven women widowed and 10 children left without a father. Two women lost both husbands and sons. The lifeboat sits today in the Scottish Marine Museum in Ayr (RNLI/PA) The disaster was a key factor in hastening the development of self-righting lifeboats. Sunday will see a day of commemoration organised by RNLI Longhope and the Longhope Lifeboat Museum Trust. Leading the memorial will be Kevin Kirkpatrick, coxswain of the current Longhope Lifeboat. Mr Kirkpatrick lost his father, uncle and grandfather in the disaster, as did his wife. Despite this, both their son Jack and daughter Stella volunteer as crew members today. He said: This will be an emotional day for us all. The tragic loss of our eight lifeboat men and the ultimate sacrifice they made will never be forgotten here, but it is due to the strength and resilience of our local community that our lifeboat station continues and still operates from Longhope today. The lost lifeboat was located in the Pentland Firth the day after the tragedy and recovered with all but one man still inside. To mark the anniversary a flotilla including RNLI lifeboats from Thurso, Stromness, Wick, and the current Longhope lifeboat, will congregate in Aith Hope to dip their flags as a mark of respect. A service will take place at the memorial in Osmundwall Cemetery, and guests will congregate at the Longhope Lifeboat Museum and community hall for ceremonies to remember the lost men. Further afield, flags at the RNLIs base in Perth and its headquarters in Poole will be lowered to half-mast. At the Scottish Maritime Museum in Irvine, where the vessel is housed, staff will mark the tragedy by holding a minutes silence and laying a wreath by the boat. Jacob Davies, lifesaving manager for the RNLI in Scotland, said: As an organisation we are reminded of the terrible sacrifice that the crew made that night and remember the bravery that it takes to go to the aid of those in danger around our coast. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will celebrate St Patricks Day by attending a parade of the Irish Guards. William, who is Colonel of the Irish Guards, and Kate will pay a visit to 1st Battalion at their base in Hounslow, west London. The royals will be reunited with their furry friend Domhnall, an Irish wolfhound and mascot they have met several times previously. Domhnall, which is Gaelic for world leader, will lead 350 soldiers as they march on the Parade Square at Cavalry Barracks on Sunday morning. Kate will then present the shamrock to officers and warrant officers, before a march past where William will take the salute. Since 1901, when the regiment was first founded by order of Queen Victoria, the regiments parade has traditionally been presided over by a woman. Kate and William at last years parade (Andrew Parsons/PA) The pair will then be toasted by the longest-serving Guardsman at the Guardsmans Lunch, and the duchess thanked for presenting the shamrock. At past parades the Duke has sipped on a pint of Guinness in a nod to the tradition of the day. Last year Kate, who was heavily pregnant with the couples third child, opted for a sparkling water instead. Three years of ceremonial duties for the Irish Guards came to an end in January. The main focus of the past 12 months was on exercise Askari Storm, a battlegroup exercise in Kenya. It currently has troops deployed in Uganda, Jordan and Kenya, and training will ramp up in September ahead of missions to South Sudan and Iraq. Alongside its role serving in British conflicts overseas, the Irish Guards also serve in ceremonial and public duties at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, St Jamess Palace and the Tower of London. Grieving family members of victims of the Ethiopian air disaster are being given sacks of earth to bury in place of the remains of their loved ones. Officials have begun delivering bags of earth to family members of the 157 victims of the crash instead of the remains of their loved ones because the identification process is going to take such a long time. Families are being given a 1kg sack of scorched earth taken from the crash sites, members of two different families told The Associated Press. An Ethiopian government official also confirmed the deliveries of soil. The soil came as it became impossible to identify bodies and hand over remains to family members, one family member said. We will not rest until we are given the real body or body parts of our loved ones. An Ethiopian relative of a crash victim grieves next to a floral tribute at the crash site (Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Forensic DNA work has begun on identifying the remains but it may take six months to identify the victims. However, authorities say they will issue death certificates within two weeks. The victims of the crash came from 35 countries. A mass memorial service for the dead is planned in Addis Ababa to take place on 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. Interpol and Blake Emergency Services, hired by Ethiopian Airlines, will work with Ethiopian police and health officials to identify the bodies, Dagmawit Moges, Ethiopias Minister of Transport said on Saturday. The cockpit voice recorder from the crashed Ethiopian Airlines jet (BEA via AP) Preparation for the identification process has already started and we will make sure that the post-mortem investigation will start as soon as possible, she said. The US National Transportation Safety Board has sent about 16 members to assist the investigation, she said. In Paris, investigators started studying the cockpit voice recorder of the crashed Ethiopian Airlines jet on Saturday. The French air accident investigation agency BEA tweeted on Saturday that technical work on the recorder began. The BEA also said work resumed on the flights data recorders. The recorders, also known as black boxes, were sent to France because the BEA has extensive expertise in analysing such devices. Experts from the US National Transportation Safety Board and the planes manufacturer Boeing are among those involved in the investigation. 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. The US 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. Boeing said it supports the grounding of its planes as a precautionary step, while reiterating full confidence in their safety. Hundreds of people across Scotland have gathered at vigils to call for peace and religious tolerance following last weeks terrorist attack in New Zealand. In an event organised by the Muslim Council of Scotland on Saturday, religious leaders joined with politicians, campaigners and members of the public in solidarity in the face of intolerance. At a vigil held on Glasgows George Square, speakers included Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf, SNP MP Alison Thewliss, Lord Provost Eva Bolander, Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard, Labour MSP Anas Sarwar and human rights lawyer Aamer Anwar. Hundreds of people across the Scotland attended vigils calling for peace (Lewis McKenzie/PA) In his speech, Mr Yousaf said that politicians and the media must help play a role in tackling intolerance in society. That attack didnt happen in a vacuum, Mr Yousaf said. The political discourse, the media discourse on Islam, on Muslims, on minorities is adding a gallon of petrol on a fire that does not need to be there. So when Boris Johnson says that women in niqab look like bankrobbers, or letterboxes Boris Johnson, shame on you because youre the one thats adding fuel to the fire. When politicians talk about swarms of immigrants, talk about villages and towns being swamped by immigrants, then you are part of the problem. When we have our media outlets not all of the them, many of them good but when we have some of our media outlets that will give platforms to the hate-mongers like Tommy Robinson or invite Nigel Farage who makes issues around immigration his central core, using inflammatory language, when they give him more time on Question Time than the SNP, the Liberal Democrats, Labour put together, then Im sorry, theres a problem with our media outlets. Lord Provost Eva Bolander writes a message to be added a peace tree (Lewis McKenzie/PA) Scottish Labour MSP Anas Sarwar urged all people from different backgrounds to work together to root out all forms all hate and intolerance. I say to you all, please do not think this is someone elses fight this is your fight as well, said Mr Sarwar. Do not leave the fight against Islamophobia to the Muslim community, its a fight for all of us. Dont leave the fight against anti-Semitism to the Jewish community, its a fight for all of us. Dont leave the fight against racism to our diverse minority-ethnic communities, its a fight for all of us. And also to the brothers in the room, dont leave the fight against sexism to the sisters, its a fight for all of us. Only if we see it as our own fight, only if we build allies, only if we stand shoulder to shoulder with each other can we defeat the haters in the face of such prejudice. 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. 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. BIGG Digital Assets Inc. operates in the digital assets and blockchain technology industry. It operates through two segments, Blockchain Technology Development and Digital Currency Sales Brokerage. The company develops QLUE, a blockchain-agnostic search and analytics engine that enables law enforcement, RegTech, regulators, and government agencies to visually track, trace, and monitor digital currencies transactions at a forensic level; and BitRank Verified that offers a risk score for digital currencies that enables RegTech, banks, ATMs, exchanges, and retailers to meet traditional regulatory/compliance requirements. It also develops brokerage and exchange software to make the purchase and sale of digital currency easily accessible to the mass consumer and investor with a focus on compliance and safety. The company has a partnership with Blockchain Foundry Inc. to develop an integrated forensic and risk scoring product for syscoin-based tokens. The company was formerly known as BIG Blockchain Intelligence Group Inc. and changed its name to BIGG Digital Assets Inc. in September 2019. BIGG Digital Assets Inc. is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Read More 16 hours ago 3 Dependable Dow Stocks to Buy in December Dow Jones Stocks Can Offer Dependable Long-Term Returns Adding components of the Dow Jones Industrial Average to your investing strategy certainly comes with its fair share of positives. Since the companies that make up this widely-recognized stock market index are some of the worlds best businesses, investors know they are getting quality by focusing on the Dow. Read Article Palaniswami, spearheading the ruling party's election campaign, said DMK was akin to a chameleon which changed its colours quite too often. hief Minister K Palaniswami on Saturday lashed out at arch-rival DMK, dubbing it a 'chameleon' for shifting its stand for power while DMK chief M K Stalin trained his guns on the AIADMK, saying it has forgotten late J Jayalalithaa, who opposed Prime Minister Modi. (Photo: File) Vellore/Dharmapuri: Chief Minister K Palaniswami on Saturday lashed out at arch-rival DMK, dubbing it a "chameleon" for shifting its stand for power while DMK chief M K Stalin trained his guns on the AIADMK, saying it has forgotten late J Jayalalithaa, who opposed Prime Minister Modi. Palaniswami, spearheading the ruling party's election campaign at Vellore, said DMK was akin to a chameleon which changed its colours quite too often. "DMK has shifted its stand many a times for the sake of power and the word chameleon applies only to it and no other party. The alliance led by it is an opportunistic alliance," he said, adding that the AIADMK was a combine wedded to people's welfare. Though the Centre discontinued subsidy for the Haj pilgrimage (following a Supreme Court directive for a gradual withdrawal of subsidy), the AIADMK government continued it providing Rs six crore for it, he said in the city, which has several pockets of Muslims. "Amma's government had always been a fortress in protecting the rights of the minorities," he said. Similarly, when a law on banning triple talaq was introduced in the Rajya Sabha, the AIADMK opposed it and subsequently it was not adopted, he said. Though the Stalin-led party had been part of several regimes at the Centre, including the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance, it did not bring projects beneficial to Tamil Nadu, he claimed. "Congress leader P Chidambaram had been the Finance Minister and still did not allocate necessary funds for the growth of Tamil Nadu," he alleged. "It is a party bereft of any principles. DMK is a family party," he said, adding that the elections would end such family politics. Outlining his government's welfare initiatives, Palaniswami said the recent Global Investors Meet attracted investments over Rs three lakh crore. "Jobs for 10.50 lakh youth have been created through such new investments, which will lead to setting up of new industries," he said. DMK President Stalin, addressing a poll rally at Harur in Dharmapuri district, mocked Palaniswami for invoking the legacies of late leaders M G Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa. "Palaniswami is talking about MGR and Jayalalithaa. What locus standi does he have to talk about them? he asked. When Modi was named as BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate in 2014, Jayalalithaa had said that "this lady is better than Modi" and that was the stand she took to oppose Narendra Modi, he said. "However, today you have pledged the AIADMK and the government with the BJP," he alleged. AIADMK cannot be redeemed from the "clutches of the BJP," he said. The DMK leader also wanted to know how the AIADMK joined hands with the PMK, which had brought out a booklet criticising Jayalalithaa. "I would like to know how Palaniswami will follow the path of Jayalalithaa,?" he asked. Hitting out at the Chief Minister for accusing DMK of not bringing beneficial projects to Tamil Nadu, despite being part of the governments at the Centre, he said the roads and bridges under the golden quadrilateral highway project (for the State) became a reality because of his party. The golden quadrilateral highway project was an initiative of the NDA regime when late Atal Bihari Vajpayee was Prime Minister and DMK was a partner in the government. Stalin also listed the Chennai Metro Rail and the Rs 1,555 crore Hogenakkal Combined Drinking Water project for Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts. Despite being friendly with the BJP government at the Centre even before forging an alliance with the saffron party, the AIADMK cannot say that it was successful in bringing projects for Tamil Nadu, he claimed The following companies are subsidiares of BP: 200 PS Overseas Holdings Inc., 563916 Alberta Ltd., ACP (Malaysia) Inc., AE Cedar Creek Holdings LLC, AE Goshen II Holdings LLC, AE Goshen II Wind Farm LLC, AE Power Services LLC, AE Wind PartsCo LLC, AM/PM International Inc., ARCO, ARCO British International, ARCO British Limited, ARCO Coal Australia Inc., ARCO El-Djazair Holdings Inc., ARCO Environmental Remediation L.L.C., ARCO Exploration Inc., ARCO Gaviota Company, ARCO International Investments Inc., ARCO International Services Inc., ARCO Midcon LLC, ARCO Oil Company Nigeria Unlimited, ARCO Oman Inc, ARCO Resources Limited, ARCO Trinidad Exploration and Production Company Limited, ARCO Unimar Holdings LLC, Actomat B.V., Advance Petroleum Holdings Pty Ltd, Advance Petroleum Pty Ltd, Air BP Albania SHA, Air BP Brasil Ltda., Air BP Canada LLC, Air BP Croatia d.o.o., Air BP Finland Oy, Air BP Iceland, Air BP Limited, Air BP Norway AS, Air BP Sales Romania S.R.L., Air BP Sweden AB, Air Refuel Pty Ltd, Allgreen Pty Ltd, AmProp Finance Company, American Oil Company, Amoco (Fiddich) Limited, Amoco (U.K.) Exploration Company LLC., Amoco Bolivia Petroleum Company, Amoco Bolivia Services Company Inc., Amoco Canada International Holdings B.V., Amoco Capline Pipeline Company, Amoco Chemical (Europe) S.A., Amoco Chemicals (FSC) B.V., Amoco Cypress Pipeline Company, Amoco Destin Pipeline Company, Amoco Environmental Services Company, Amoco Exploration Holdings B.V., Amoco Guatemala Petroleum Company, Amoco International Finance Corporation, Amoco International Petroleum Company, Amoco Leasing Corporation, Amoco Louisiana Fractionator Company, Amoco MB Fractionation Company, Amoco MBF Company, Amoco Main Pass Gathering Company, Amoco Marketing Environmental Services Company, Amoco Netherlands Petroleum Company, Amoco Nigeria Exploration Company Limited, Amoco Nigeria Oil Company Limited, Amoco Nigeria Petroleum Company, Amoco Nigeria Petroleum Company Limited, Amoco Norway Oil Company, Amoco Oil Holding Company, Amoco Olefins Corporation, Amoco Overseas Exploration Company, Amoco Pipeline Asset Company, Amoco Pipeline Holding Company, Amoco Properties Incorporated, Amoco Remediation Management Services Corporation, Amoco Research Operating Company, Amoco Rio Grande Pipeline Company, Amoco Somalia Petroleum Company, Amoco Sulfur Recovery Company, Amoco Tri-States NGL Pipeline Company, Amoco Trinidad Gas B.V., Amoco U.K. Petroleum Limited, Amprop Illinois I Limited, Amprop Inc., Anaconda Arizona Inc., Arabian Production And Marketing Lubricants, Aral Aktiengesellschaft, Aral Luxembourg S.A., Aral Services Luxembourg Sarl, Aral Tankstellen Services Sarl, Arco Mediterraneo Inversiones S.L., Areas Noriega S.L., Areas Singulares Reyes S.L., Aspac Lubricants (Malaysia) Sdn. 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Limited, Castrol B.V., Castrol BP Petco Limited Liability Company, Castrol Brasil Ltda., Castrol Caribbean & Central America Inc., Castrol Colombia Ltda., Castrol Del Peru S.A., Castrol Egypt Lubricants S.A.E., Castrol India Limited, Castrol Industrie und Service GmbH, Castrol KK, Castrol Limited, Castrol Lubricants RO S.R.L, Castrol Mexico S.A., Castrol Namibia (Pty) Limited, Castrol Offshore Limited, Castrol Pakistan (Private) Limited, Castrol Philippines Inc., Castrol Servicos Ltda., Castrol Ukraine LLC, Castrol Zimbabwe (Private) Limited, Centrel Pty Ltd, Charge Your Car Limitedc, Chargemaster, Chargemaster (Europe) GmbH, Chargemaster Limited, Charging Solutions Limited, Clarisse Holdings Pty Ltd, Coastwise Trading Company Inc., Consolidada de Energia y Lubricantes (CENERLUB) C.A., Conti Cross Keys Inn Inc., Coro Trading NZ Limited, Cuyama Pipeline Company, DHC Solvent Chemie GmbH, Dermody Developments Pty Ltd, Dermody Holdings Pty Ltd, Dermody Investments Pty Ltd, Dermody Petroleum Pty. Ltd., Dome Beaufort Petroleum Limited, Dome Wallis (1980) Limited Partnership, ECM Markets SA (Pty) Ltd, Elektromotive Limited, Elite Customer Solutions Pty Ltd, Elm Holdings Inc., Energy Global Investments (USA) Inc., Enstar LLC, Estacion de Servicio Alto Campoo S.L., Estacion de Servicio Ganzo 10 S.L., Estacion de Servicio Reocin 9 S.L., Estacion de Servicio Santillana II S.L., Estacion de Servicio Sardinero S.L., Estonian Aviation Fuelling Services, Europa Oil NZ Limited, Exomet Inc., Expandite Contract Services Limited, Exploration (Luderitz Basin) Limited, Exploration Service Company Limited, FWK (2017) Limited, FWK Holdings (2017) LTD, Finite Carbon, Flat Ridge 2 Holdings LLC, Flat Ridge Wind Energy LLC, Foseco Holding Inc., Foseco Holding International B.V., Foseco Inc., Fosroc Expandite Limited, Fotech Solutions Ltd, Fowler Ridge Holdings LLC, Fowler Ridge I Land Investments LLC, Fowler Ridge II Holdings LLC, Fowler Ridge III Wind Farm LLC, FreeBees B.V., Fuel & Retail Aviat ion Sweden AB, Fuelplane- Sociedade Abastecedora De Aeronaves Unipessoal Lda, GOAM 1 C.I S. A .S, Gardena Holdings Inc., Gelsenkirchen Raffinerie Netz GmbH, Grampian Aviation Fuelling Services Limited, Guangdong Investments Limited, Highlands Ethanol LLC, Hosteleria Noriega S.L., IGI Resources Inc., Insight Analytics Solutions Holdings Limited, Insight Analytics Solutions Limited, Insight Analytics Solutions USA Inc., International Bunker Supplies Pty Ltd, Iraq Petroleum Company Limited, Jupiter Insurance Limited, Ken-Chas Reserve Company, Kenilworth Oil Company Limited, Kingbook Inversiones Socimi S.A., Latin Energy Argentina S.A., Lebanese Aviation Technical Services S.A.L., Limited Liability Company BP Toplivnaya Kompania, Limited liability company Setra Lubricants, Lubricants UK Limited, Lytt Limited, Manormaker (Nominee No. 1) Limited, Manormaker (Nominee No. 2) Limited, Manormaker GP Limited (99.90%) 11 Black Horse Lane, Mardi Gras Transportation System Company LLC, Markoil S.A., Masana Petroleum Solutions (Pty) Ltd, Mayaro Initiative for Private Enterprise Development, Mehoopany Holdings LLC, Mes Tecnologia En Servicios Y Energia S.A., Minza Pty. Ltd., Mountain City Remediation LLC, No. 1 Riverside Quay Proprietary Limited, Nordic Lubricants A/S, Nordic Lubricants AB, North America Funding Company, OMD87 Inc., OOO BP STL, Omega Oil Company, OnSight Analytics Solutions India Private Ltd., Open Energi, Orion Delaware Mountain Wind Farm LP, Orion Energy Holdings LLC, Orion Energy L.L.C.b, Orion Post Land Investments LLC, Oyambre 1 S.L., PRODUITS METALLURGIE DOITTAU, PT BP Petrochemicals, PT Castrol Indonesia, PT Castrol Manufacturing Indonesia, PT Jasatama Petroindo, Pacroy (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Peaks America Inc., Pearl River Delta Investments Limited, Petrocorner Retail S.L.U., Phoenix Petroleum Services Limited, Pozuelo 4 S.L., Prospect International C.A. (In liquidation), Puente Arce 4 S.L., Remediation Management Services Company, Richfield Oil Corporation, Rio Corvo 2 S.L., Rolling Thunder I Power Partners LLC, Romax Insight Korea Ltd., Ropemaker Deansgate Limited, Ropemaker Properties Limited, Ruhr Oel GmbH, Rusdene GSS Limited, SOFAST Limited, SRHP, Saturn Insurance Inc., Sherbino I Holdings LLC, Sherbino Mesa I Land Investments LLC, Sociedade de Promocao Imobiliaria Quinta do Loureiro SA, Societe de Gestion de Depots d'Hydrocarbures - GDH, South Texas Shale LLC, Southeast Texas Biofuels LLC, Southern Ridge Pipeline Holding Company, Southern Ridge Pipeline LP LLC, Sp/f Decision3 (GreenSteam) Company, Standard Oil Company, Standard Oil Company Inc., Standard Oil of Ohio, Stryde Limited, Sunrise Oil Sands Partnership, TISA Education Complex LLC, TJKK, Taradadis Pty. Ltd., Telcom General Corporation, Terre de Grace Partnership, The Anaconda Company, The BP Share Plans Trustees Limited, The Burmah Oil Company (Pakistan Trading) Limited, The Standard Oil Company, Thorntons, Toledo Refinery Holding Company LLC, Torrelavega 7 S.L., Union Texas International Corporation, Vastar Pipeline LLC, Veba Oel AG Veba Oel, Verenium, Viceroy Investments Limited, Villacarriedo 8 S.L., Warrenville Development Limited, Water Way Trading and Petroleum Services LLC, Welchem Inc., West Kimberley Fuels Pty Ltd, Westlake Houston Development LLC, Whiting Clean Energy Inc., Windpark Energy Nederland B.V., and Winwell Resources L.L.C. SPDR S&P Oil & Gas Equipment & Services ETF's stock was trading at $2.58 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, XES stock has increased by 1,950.0% and is now trading at $52.89. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF's stock was trading at $52.50 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, IEFA stock has increased by 42.6% and is now trading at $74.89. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. He said, 'If Congress thinks Rahul Gandhi is Shiva avatar then they should give him poison.' BJP MLA Kamal Patel made this statement in response to the posters that have come up in the streets of Madhya Pradesh portraying the Congress chief as the Hindu deity. (Photo: ANI) Harda: In a bizarre statement, a BJP MLA in Madhya Pradesh has said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi should consume poison to prove that he is worth worshipping like Lord Shiva. BJP MLA Kamal Patel made this statement in response to the posters that have come up in the streets of Madhya Pradesh portraying the Congress chief as the Hindu deity. "Congress always demands proofs. Now, we also want. If Congress thinks Rahul Gandhi is Shiva avatar then they should give him poison. If he will survive like Shiva then he would also worship him," Patel said. The Hershey Co. engages in the manufacture and market of chocolate and sugar confectionery products. The firm operates through the following geographical segments: North America; and International and Other. The North America segment is responsible for the traditional chocolate and non-chocolate confectionery market position of the company, as well as its grocery and snacks market positions, in the United States and Canada. The International and Other segment is the combination of all other operating segments which are not individually material, including those geographic regions where the company operates outside of North America. Its brands include Hershey's, Reese's, and Kisses. The company was founded by Milton S. Hershey in 1894 and is headquartered in Hershey, PA. Read More There is not enough analysis data for American Premium Water. 3.9 Community Rank Outperform Votes American Premium Water has received 24 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes American Premium Water has received 17 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment American Premium Water has received 58.54% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about American Premium Water and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe HIPH will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe HIPH will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next There is not enough analysis data for PIMCO Income Strategy Fund II. 4.8 Community Rank Outperform Votes PIMCO Income Strategy Fund II has received 105 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes PIMCO Income Strategy Fund II has received 41 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment PIMCO Income Strategy Fund II has received 71.92% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about PIMCO Income Strategy Fund II and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe PFN will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe PFN will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next The following companies are subsidiares of American International Group: AGC Life Insurance Company, AIG APAC HOLDINGS PTE. LTD., AIG Advisors S.r.l., AIG Aerospace Insurance Services Inc., AIG Asia Pacific Insurance Pte. Ltd., AIG Asset Management (Europe) Limited, AIG Asset Management (U.S.) LLC, AIG Assurance Company, AIG Australia Limited, AIG Brazil Holding I LLC, AIG CIS Investments LLC, AIG Canada Holdings Inc., AIG Capital Corporation, AIG Capital Services Inc., AIG Claims Inc., AIG Egypt Insurance Company S.A.E., AIG Employee Services Inc., AIG Europe (Services) Limited, AIG Europe Holdings S.a.rl., AIG Europe S.A., AIG Federal Savings Bank, AIG Financial Products Corp., AIG General Insurance Co. Ltd., AIG Global Asset Management Holdings Corp., AIG Global Real Estate Investment Corp., AIG Global Reinsurance Operations, AIG Holdings Europe Limited, AIG Insurance (Thailand) Public Company Limited, AIG Insurance Company China Limited, AIG Insurance Company JSC, AIG Insurance Company of Canada, AIG Insurance Company-Puerto Rico, AIG Insurance Hong Kong Limited, AIG Insurance Limited, AIG Insurance Management Services Inc., AIG Insurance New Zealand Limited, AIG International Holdings GmbH, AIG Investments UK Limited, AIG Israel Insurance Company Ltd, AIG Japan Holdings Kabushiki Kaisha, AIG Kenya Insurance Company Limited, AIG Korea Inc., AIG Latin America I.I., AIG Latin America Investments S.L., AIG Lebanon SAL, AIG Life Holdings Inc., AIG Life Insurance Company (Switzerland) Ltd, AIG Life Limited, AIG Life South Africa Limited, AIG Life of Bermuda Ltd., AIG MEA Holdings Limited, AIG MEA Limited, AIG Malaysia Insurance Berhad, AIG Markets Inc., AIG Matched Funding Corp., AIG PC Global Services Inc., AIG Philippines Insurance Inc., AIG Property Casualty Company, AIG Property Casualty Inc., AIG Property Casualty International LLC, AIG Property Casualty U.S. Inc., AIG Re-Takaful (L) Berhad, AIG Resseguros Brasil S.A., AIG Seguros Brasil S.A., AIG Seguros Mexico S.A. de C.V., AIG Shared Services Corporation, AIG South Africa Limited, AIG Specialty Insurance Company, AIG Technologies Inc., AIG Travel Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., AIG Travel Assist Inc., AIG Travel Assist Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., AIG Travel EMEA Limited, AIG Travel Inc., AIG Uganda Limited, AIG Vietnam Insurance Company Limited, AIG WarrantyGuard Inc., AIG-FP Pinestead Holdings Corp., AIG-Metropolitana Cia. de Seguros y Reaseguros S.A., AIGGRE EOLA LLC, AIGGRE Europe Real Estate Fund I GP S.a r.l., AIGGRE U.S. Real Estate Fund I GP LLC, AIGGRE U.S. Real Estate Fund I LP, AIGGRE U.S. Real Estate Fund II GP LLC, AIU Insurance Company, AM Holdings LLC, Ageas Protect, AlphaCat Managers Ltd., American General Corporation, American General Life Insurance Company, American Home Assurance Co. Ltd., American Home Assurance Company, American Home Assurance Company Escritorio de Representacao no Brasil Ltda., American International Group Inc., American International Group UK Limited, American International Overseas Association, American International Overseas Limited, American International Realty Corp., American International Reinsurance Company Ltd., American International Underwriters del Ecuador-Holding S.A., American Security Life Insurance Company Limited, Arthur J. Glatfelter Agency Inc., Avondhu Limited, Blackboard Customer Care Insurance Services LLC, Blackboard Insurance Company, Blackboard Services LLC, Blackboard Specialty Insurance Company, Blackboard U.S. Holdings Inc., Chartis Takaful Enaya B.S.C. (c), Commerce and Industry Insurance Company, Crop Risk Services Inc., Eaglestone Reinsurance Company, Ellipse, Fortitude Group Holdings LLC, Fortitude Life & Annuity Solutions Inc., Fortitude Reinsurance Company Ltd., Franklin Life Insurance Company, Fuji Fire and Marine, Glatfelter Insurance Group, Globe and Rutgers Insurance Group, Grand Isle SAC Limited, Granite State Insurance Company, Group Risk Services Limited, Group Risk Technologies Limited, Illinois National Insurance Co., Jefferson Eola Venture LLC, Johannesburg Insurance Holdings (Proprietary) Limited, Laya Healthcare Limited, Lexington Insurance Company, MG Reinsurance Limited, Mt. Mansfield Company Inc., National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh Pa., National Union Fire Insurance Company of Vermont, New Hampshire Insurance Company, PT AIG Insurance Indonesia, Pine Street Real Estate Holdings Corp., Private Joint-Stock Company AIG Ukraine Insurance Company, Risk Specialists Companies Insurance Agency Inc., SA Affordable Housing LLC, SAFG Retirement Services Inc., Service Net Warranty LLC, Stratford Insurance Company, SunAmerica Affordable Housing Partners Inc., SunAmerica Asset Management LLC, Talbot Holdings Ltd., Talbot Underwriting Holdings Ltd., Talbot Underwriting Ltd., Thai CIT Holding Company Limited, The Insurance Company of the State of Pennsylvania, The United States Life Insurance Company in the City of New York, The Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company, Travel Guard, Travel Guard Group Canada Inc./Groupe Garde Voyage du Canada Inc., Travel Guard Group Inc., Tudor Insurance Company, VALIC Financial Advisors Inc., Valic Retirement Services Company, Validus Holdings, Validus Holdings (UK) Ltd., Validus Holdings Ltd., Validus Reinsurance (Switzerland) Ltd, Validus Reinsurance Ltd., Validus Ventures Ltd., Volunteer Firemen's Insurance Services Inc., Western World Insurance Company, and Western World Insurance Group Inc.. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA engages in the traditional banking businesses of retail banking, asset management, private banking, and wholesale banking. It operates through the following segments: Spain, the United States, Mexico, Turkey, South America, and Rest of Eurasia. The Spain segment includes mainly the banking and insurance business that the group carries out in Spain. The United States segment consists of the financial business activity of BBVA USA in the country and the activity of the branch of BBVA SA in New York. The Mexico segment refers to banking and insurance businesses in this country as well as the activity of its branch in Houston. The Turkey segment reports the activity of Garanti BBVA group that is mainly carried out in this country and, to a lesser extent, in Romania and the Netherlands. The South America segment comprises of operations in n Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. The Rest of Eurasia segment includes the banking business activity carried out by the group in Europe and Asia, excluding Spain. The company was founded in 1857 and is headquartered in Madrid, Spain. Read More Families and school both crucial in promoting self-confidence: Study. After analysing the data, the researchers found that higher levels of conflict between parents were linked to adolescents' feeling that their sense of security in the family was threatened. (Photo: Representational/Pixabay) Washington: According to a recent study, family and school both a play a big role in developing and encouraging one's self-confidence. According to the researchers, self-confidence is a critical key to prepare for the challenges of adulthood and both family and school play a pivotal role in boosting up the self-confidence of adolescents. The study was published in the Journal of Adolescence. It was found that adolescents who frequently witnessed their parents arguing or engaging in other forms of conflict experienced lower self-efficacy later on. But, success in school and support from peers were able to help compensate for family problems and even boost self-efficacy higher than those losses. The healthier you can make the relationship with your partner, the better that is for your child. Parents can get really focused on how they parent and that is important, but their relationship with one another is an important source of strength for the family and for their children's development. Investing in a healthy couple relationship is going to promote a positive outcome for the child. "One of the goals of adolescence is to start to gain independence, form new social groups and eventually, down the line, start a family of their own. As you encounter challenges in your life, your constant thought is: I can't do this and that can be stifling. But, if you have high self-efficacy, you're going to continue to pursue your goals, find more success and that's going to reinforce and build on itself," said Devin McCauley, one of the co-authors. The researchers used data from 768 families, which included two-parent households with at least one adolescent in the home. The data was collected twice when the adolescents were in sixth grade and once when they were in seventh grade. At each time point, adolescents reported data on the conflict they witnessed between their parents, how threatened they felt by that conflict, feelings of self-efficacy, their school success and how much they felt supported by their peers. After analysing the data, the researchers found that higher levels of conflict between parents were linked to adolescents' feeling that their sense of security in the family was threatened. And this lower sense of security, in turn, was linked to diminished self-efficacy. But, greater success in school, as well as feeling supported by peers, contributed to higher levels of self-efficacy, enough to compensate for the losses stemming from teens' exposure to conflict between parents. "If these adolescents are experiencing a lot of conflict at home, that can be offset to an extent by feeling successful in school or in their peer relationships. Even though inter-parental conflict at home is a risk factor for undermining their self-efficacy, these positive experiences out of the home will help offset damages to their belief in themselves, in their ability to overcome challenges, said Greg Fosco, one of the co-authors. The study suggests there are multiple ways to help promote self-efficacy in adolescents and that one set of solutions may not fit all teens. This gives the parents different approaches to work within when it comes to intervention or prevention strategies. If it's difficult to work with the family, if it's hard to get them to come to programmes or sessions, parents can help teens be successful in other areas of their life. This study is a good reminder for parents about the importance of healthy co-parenting relationships. 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.. At Landsec, we strive to connect communities, realise potential and deliver sustainable places. As one of the largest real estate companies in Europe, our A11.8 billion portfolio spans 24 million sq ft (as at 30 September 2020) of well-connected retail, leisure, workspace and residential hubs. From the iconic Piccadilly Lights in the West End and the regeneration of London's Victoria, to the creation of retail destinations at Westgate Oxford and Trinity Leeds, we own and manage some of the most successful and memorable real estate in the UK. We aim to lead our industry in critical long-term issues A- from diversity and community employment, to carbon reduction and climate resilience. We deliver value for our shareholders, great experiences for our customers and positive change for our communities. Read More The saffron party, which bagged two LS seats in the state in the 2014 elections, is now targeting 23 of the states 42 constituencies. Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to address seven BJP rallies including a grand one on April 3 in support of the party candidates at the historic Brigade Parade Ground as part of his campaign for the Lok Sabha Elections. He will be followed by BJP president Amit Shah who is expected to address at least four rallies in the first week of the next month, according to sources adding that Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanaths name has also been on the list of campaigners. State BJP general secretary Raju Banerjee said, A proposal has been sent to the party central leadership for organising a rally at the Brigade. A discussion has been underway. The PM schedule, be it venue or the date is generally finalised from the PMO. West Bengal is one of the priority states for the BJP in the country. The saffron party, which bagged two Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2014 elections, is now targeting 23 of the states 42 constituencies. The Lok Sabha election in the state is a semi-final match for the BJP before it goes out for an all-out battle to oust the Mamata Banerjee-headed Trinamul Congress government in the 2021 assembly polls, a senior state BJP leader said. The last time the BJP had planned to organise a rally at the Brigade was on January 23 on the occasion of statewide mega event Rath Yatra, which however did not take place. This time however the state BJP leadership sounded determined to hold the rally. Lok Sabha elections will be held in West Bengal in seven phases from April 11 to May 19. The following companies are subsidiares of SYNNEX: 2117974 Ontario Inc., Afina Peru S.A.C., Afina S.R.L., Afina Sistemas Informaticos Limitada, Afina Sistemas Informaticos S.L, Afina Sistemas Sociedade Ltda., Afina Venezuela C.A., Afinasis S.A. de C.V., Asset Ohio Fourth Street LLC, BPO Holdco Cooperatief U.A., Beijing Jumeng Technology Development Ltd., Brazil HoldCo Limited, CNX Services Jamaica Limited, Chongqing Jumeng Technologies Development Ltd., ComputerLand Corporation, Comstor Colombia S.A.S., Concentrix (Canada) Limited, Concentrix (Suzhou) Information Consulting Co. Limited, Concentrix Beteiligungen GmbH, Concentrix Brazil Outsourcing of Processes Administrative Services and Technologies to Enterprises Ltda., Concentrix Business Services UK Limited, Concentrix CMG Canada ULC, Concentrix CRM Services Germany GmbH, Concentrix CRM Services Hungary Kft, Concentrix CRM Services RO S.R.L., Concentrix CRM Services UK Limited, Concentrix CVG (Mauritius) Ltd, Concentrix CVG Brite Voice Systems LLC, Concentrix CVG CMG Insurance Services LLC, Concentrix CVG CMG UK Limited, Concentrix CVG Contact Tunisie S.A.R.L., Concentrix CVG Corporation, Concentrix CVG Customer Management Australia Pty. Ltd., Concentrix CVG Customer Management Colombia S.A.S., Concentrix CVG Customer Management Delaware LLC, Concentrix CVG Customer Management Group Inc., Concentrix CVG Delaware Inc., Concentrix CVG Delaware International Inc., Concentrix CVG Egypt Limited Liability Company, Concentrix CVG France S.A.R.L., Concentrix CVG Funding Inc., Concentrix CVG Global Services AZ Inc., Concentrix CVG Global Services El Salvador S.A. de C.V., Concentrix CVG Global Services Honduras S.A., Concentrix CVG Global Services Hong Kong Limited, Concentrix CVG Government Solutions LLC, Concentrix CVG Group Limited, Concentrix CVG Holding LLC, Concentrix CVG Intelligent Contact Limited, Concentrix CVG International Bulgaria EOOD, Concentrix CVG International Holding Ltd., Concentrix CVG International Sp. Z.o.o., Concentrix CVG Ireland Contact Services Limited, Concentrix CVG Ireland Limited, Concentrix CVG Italy S.R.L., Concentrix CVG LLC, Concentrix CVG Learning Solutions LLC, Concentrix CVG Malaysia (Phillipines) Sdn. Bhd., Concentrix CVG Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Concentrix CVG Philippines Inc., Concentrix CVG Pte. Ltd., Concentrix CVG Services Singapore Pte. Ltd., Concentrix CVG Servicios Informaticos S.L, Concentrix CVG Singapore Holdings Pte. Ltd., Concentrix CVG Tunisie BPO S.A.R.L., Concentrix CVG Tunisie S.A.R.L., Concentrix Corporation, Concentrix Costa Rica S.A., Concentrix Daksh Services India Private Limited, Concentrix Daksh Services Philippines Corporation, Concentrix Digital Services Limited, Concentrix Duisburg GmbH, Concentrix Dusseldorf GmbH, Concentrix Europe Limited, Concentrix Frankfurt a. M. GmbH, Concentrix Free Trade Zone S.A., Concentrix Gera GmbH, Concentrix Global Services GmbH, Concentrix Gmbh, Concentrix HK Limited, Concentrix Halle GmbH, Concentrix Insurance Administration Solutions Corporation, Concentrix International Europe B.V., Concentrix International GmbH, Concentrix International Services Europe B.V., Concentrix Investment Holdings Corporation, Concentrix Investment Holdings Singapore 1 Pte. Ltd, Concentrix Investment Holdings Singapore 2 Pte. Ltd, Concentrix Investment Holdings Singapore 3 Pte. Ltd, Concentrix Investments Europe B.V., Concentrix Legal Services Company Limited, Concentrix Leipzig GmbH, Concentrix Logistics Corporation, Concentrix Management Holding GmbH & Co. KG, Concentrix Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V, Concentrix Munster GmbH, Concentrix New (BVI) Corporation, Concentrix NewHK Limited, Concentrix Nicaragua S.A., Concentrix Osnabruck GmbH, Concentrix Receivables Inc, Concentrix Rechenzentrum GmbH, Concentrix Romania S.R.L., Concentrix Schwerin GmbH, Concentrix Services (Colombia) S.A.S., Concentrix Services (Dalian) Co. Ltd., Concentrix Services (Germany) GmbH, Concentrix Services (Ireland) Limited, Concentrix Services (Netherlands) B.V., Concentrix Services (New Zealand) Limited, Concentrix Services (Poland) spolka z o.o., Concentrix Services (Saudi Arabia) Corporation LLC, Concentrix Services (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Concentrix Services (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Concentrix Services (Uruguay) S.A., Concentrix Services Bulgaria EOOD, Concentrix Services Corporation, Concentrix Services GmbH, Concentrix Services Holdco (Netherlands) B.V., Concentrix Services Hungary KFT, Concentrix Services India Private Limited, Concentrix Services Korea Limited, Concentrix Services Mexico S.A. de C.V., Concentrix Services Philippines Inc., Concentrix Services Portugal Sociedade Unipessoal LDA, Concentrix Services Pty Ltd, Concentrix Services Slovakia s.r.o., Concentrix Services Spain S.L.U., Concentrix Services UK Limited, Concentrix Services US Inc., Concentrix Software Technologies (HK) Limited, Concentrix Solutions Corporation, Concentrix Technologies (India) Private Limited, Concentrix Technologies Limited, Concentrix Technologies Services (Canada) Limited, Concentrix Tigerspike Technology FZ-LLC, Concentrix VN Technologies Services Company Limited, Concentrix Verwaltungs GmbH, Concentrix Wismar GmbH, Concentrix Wuppertal GmbH, Convergys, Convergys Customer Management Group Canada Holding Inc., Convergys Customer Management International Inc., Convergys Customer Management Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Convergys Holdings (GB) Limited, Convergys Holdings (UK) Limited, Convergys India Services Private Limited, Convergys International Inc., Convergys International Nordic AB, Convergys Services Denmark ApS, Convergys South Africa (Pty) Ltd., CyberLogistics Corporation, Dalian Jumeng Information Services Ltd., Dalian Jumeng Technology Development Ltd., EMJ America Inc., Encore Receivable Management Inc., Foshan Jumeng Information Technology Service Co. Ltd, GLS Software S. de R.L., Guiyang Jumeng Technology Development Ltd., Hyve Design Solutions (Taiwan) Corporation, Hyve Design Solutions Corporation, Hyve IT Solutions Israel Ltd, Hyve IT Solutions South Africa (PTY) Ltd., Hyve SNX Solutions Ireland Limited, Hyve Solutions (Taiwan) Corporation, Hyve Solutions Canada Limited, Hyve Solutions China Limited, Hyve Solutions Corporation, Hyve Solutions Europe Limited, Hyve Solutions HK Limited, Hyve Solutions Holding Company Limited, Hyve Solutions India Private Limited, Hyve Solutions Japan K.K., Hyve Solutions Korea Limited, Hyve Solutions Malaysia SDN.BHD., Hyve Solutions New Zealand Limited, Hyve Solutions Singapore Pte. Ltd, Hyve Solutions US Global Holding Corporation, IBM World Wide Customer Care, Intervoice Acquisition Subsidiary Inc., Intervoice Colombia Ltda., Intervoice GP Inc., Intervoice GmbH, Intervoice LP Inc., Intervoice Limited, Intervoice Limited Partnership, Intervoice do Brasil Comercio Servicos e Participacoes Ltda., Jack Of All Games Inc., Japan Concentrix KK, LATAM HoldCo Limited, Lasting Holdings Corporation, License Online Inc, Minacs, Minacs Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., PT Concentrix Services Indonesia, PT Convergys Customer Management Indonesia, Pegasus Telecom LLC, SCGS (Malaysia) SDN. BHD., SGS Holdings Inc., SIT Funding Corporation, SYNNEX Canada Limited, SYNNEX Finance Hybrid II LLC, SYNNEX Holdco Inc., SYNNEX Information Technologies (Beijing) Ltd., SYNNEX Information Technologies (Chengdu) Ltd., SYNNEX Information Technologies (China) Ltd., SYNNEX Japan Corporation, SYNNEX Japan Holdings K.K., SYNNEX Servicios S.A. de C.V., SYNNEX de Mexico S.A. de C.V., SYNNEX-Concentrix UK Limited, Sennex Enterprises Limited, Servicios Afinasis S.A. de C.V., Shenzhen Shunrong Telecommunication Technologies Ltd., Sichuan 86Bridge Information Technology Ltd., Stream Business Process Outsourcing South Africa (Proprietary) Ltd., Stream Florida Inc., Stream Global Services - US Inc., Stream Global Services Inc., Stream Holdings Corporation, Suzhou Ke Wei Xun Information Services Co. Ltd., Tech Data, The Global Email Trustee Limited, Tigerspike Co. Ltd, Tigerspike FZ-LLC, Tigerspike Holdings Pty Ltd, Tigerspike Inc., Tigerspike Ltd, Tigerspike Products Pte. Ltd., Tigerspike Pte. Ltd., Tigerspike Pty Ltd, Velami Holdings Corporation, Vietnam Concentrix Services Company Limited, VisionMAX, WG-UK Holding Company Limited, WG-US HoldCo Inc, Westcon Brasil Ltda., Westcon CALA Inc., Westcon Canada Systems (WCSI) Inc., Westcon Corporation Ecuador WCE Cia. Ltda, Westcon GDS LLC, Westcon Group Colombia Limitada, Westcon Group Costa Rica S.A., Westcon Group Inc., Westcon Group North America Inc., Westcon Group Panama S.A., Westcon Mexico S.A. de C.V., Westcon-Comstor Americas, Xi'an Jumeng Technologies Development Ltd, and eTelecare Philippines Inc.. Chheda left the BJP seven years ago to join the Congress, due to his differences with the local MLA Prakash Mehta. Mumbai: In another setback to the Congress ahead of next months polling, its sitting corporator in Mumbai Pravin Chheda returned to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Along with Mr Chheda and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) state unit vice president Bharti Pawar also joined the BJP in the presence of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai. Mr Chheda left the BJP seven years ago to join the Congress, due to his differences with the local MLA Prakash Mehta. Before joining the Congress, Mr Chheda was a three-term corporator in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. I am impressed by the development work being carried out by the BJP government. The Congress had offered me candidature from the Mumbai north east seat, but I ignored the offer and returned to the BJP, said Mr Chheda expressing satisfaction decision. I will play the role party wants me to play, he added. The NCP state vice president Bharati Pawar also joined the BJP on Friday. Ms Pawar had unsuccessfully contested the 2014 Lok Sabha polls from Dindori constituency aga-inst BJPs Harishchandra Chavan. She said Their works over the past five years have inspired me to join the BJP. I will work for the uplift of the poor and tribal. On the occasion, Mr Fadanvis said that leaders and workers doing well in other parties were joining the BJP by trusting Mr Modis performance and the schemes being carried out by the Centre for poor and farmers. Mr Fadnavis clarified that Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Kakade will stay in the BJP. Due to some reasons, Mr Kakde was unha-ppy and the Congress contacted him and offered a candidature from Pune. 11 Wall Street analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for Hugo Boss in the last year. There are currently 6 hold ratings and 5 buy ratings for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street analysts is that investors should "hold" Hugo Boss stock. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in BOSS, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares. View analyst ratings for Hugo Boss or view top-rated stocks. iShares MSCI India ETF's stock was trading at $28.76 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, INDA stock has increased by 68.7% and is now trading at $48.52. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. KAZ Minerals PLC, together with its subsidiaries, engages in mining and processing copper and other metals primarily in Kazakhstan, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan. It operates through Bozshakol, Aktogay, East Region and Bozymchak, and Mining Projects segments. The company operates the Aktogay and Bozshakol open pit copper mines in the east region and Pavlodar region of Kazakhstan; three underground mines in the east region of Kazakhstan; and the Bozymchak copper-gold mine in Kyrgyzstan. It also develops greenfield metal deposits; operates Koksay deposit in Kazakhstan, and the Baimskaya licence area in the Chukotka region of Russia; and produces and sells various by-products, such as gold, silver, molybdenum, and zinc. In addition, the company supplies and distributes heat, water, and electricity; and offers construction, project management, financing, management, sales and logistics, and repairs and maintenance services. The company was formerly known as Kazakhmys PLC and changed its name to KAZ Minerals PLC in October 2014. KAZ Minerals PLC was founded in 1930 and is based in London, the United Kingdom. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Kroger: 84.51 HQ Building Company LLC, 84.51 LLC, Alpha Beta Company, Ansonborough Square Investors I LLC, Ansonborough Square Retail LLC, Ardrey Kell Investments LLC, Bay Area Warehouse Stores Inc., Beech Tree Holdings LLC, Bell Markets Inc., Bleecker Ventures LLC, Bluefield Beverage Company, Box Cutter Inc., Brier Creek Arbors Drive Retail LLC, CB&S Advertising Agency Inc., Cala Co., Cala Foods Inc., Cheeses of All Nations Inc., Country Oven Inc., Crawford Stores Inc., Creedmoor Retail LLC, Dillon Companies LLC, Dillon Real Estate Co. Inc., Dillons, Distribution Trucking Company, Dotto Inc., Edgewood Plaza Holdings LLC, Embassy International Inc., FM Inc., FMJ Inc., Farmacia Doral Inc., Food 4 Less GM Inc., Food 4 Less Holdings Inc., Food 4 Less Merchandising Inc., Food 4 Less of California Inc., Food 4 Less of Southern California Inc., Fred Meyer, Fred Meyer Inc., Fred Meyer Jewelers Inc., Fred Meyer Stores Inc., Glasswing Labs LLC, Glendale/Goodwin Realty I LLC, Grubstake Investments LLC, HT Fuel DE LLC, HT Fuel NC LLC, HT Fuel SC LLC, HT Fuel VA LLC, HTGBD LLC, HTP Bluffton LLC, HTP Plaza LLC, HTP Relo LLC, HTPS LLC, HTTAH LLC, Harris Teeter, Harris Teeter LLC, Henpil Inc., Home Chef, Hood-Clayton Logistics LLC, Hughes Markets Inc., Hughes Realty Inc., I.T.A. Inc., IRP LLC, ITAC 119 LLC, ITAC 265 LLC, Inter-American Foods Inc., Inter-American Products Inc., J.V. Distributing Inc., Jondex Corp., Jubilee Carolina LLC, KCDE 2012 LLC, KCDE 2013 LLC, KCDE-2 LLC, KCDE-3 LLC, KCDE-4 LLC, KCDE-5 LLC, KGO LLC, KPF LLC, KPS LLC, KRGP LLC, KRLP Inc., KV Anderson LLC, Kee Trans Inc., Kessel FP, Kiosk Medicine Kentucky LLC, Kirkpatrick West Retail LLC, Kroger Community Development Entity LLC, Kroger Dedicated Logistics Co., Kroger Fulfillment Network LLC, Kroger G.O. LLC, Kroger LM Real Estate Holdings LLC, Kroger Limited Partnership I, Kroger Limited Partnership II, Kroger MC Holdings LLC, Kroger MTL Management LLC, Kroger Management Co., Kroger Management Corryville LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Athens I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Champaign I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Champaign II LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Cincinnati I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Dallas I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Danville I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Logansport I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Missouri I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Oak Ridge I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Olney I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Omaha I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Portsmouth I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Starkville I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Topeka I LLC, Kroger Management NMTC Warrenton I LLC, Kroger NMTC Fremont I LLC, Kroger OZ1 Inc., Kroger OZ1 LLC, Kroger OZ2 Inc., Kroger OZ2 LLC, Kroger OZ3 Inc., Kroger OZ3 LLC, Kroger Opportunity Fund I Inc., Kroger Prescription Plans Inc., Kroger Specialty Infusion AL LLC, Kroger Specialty Infusion CA LLC, Kroger Specialty Infusion Holdings Inc., Kroger Specialty Infusion TX LLC, Kroger Specialty Pharmacy CA 2 LLC, Kroger Specialty Pharmacy CA LLC, Kroger Specialty Pharmacy FL 2 LLC, Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Holdings 2 Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Holdings 3 Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Holdings I Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Holdings Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy LA LLC, Kroger Texas L.P., LCGP3 Home Cooking Inc., Latta Village LLC, Local Mkt LLC, Main & Vine LLC, Matthews Property 1 LLC, Mega Marts LLC, Michigan Dairy L.L.C., ModernHealth LTC, Murrays Cheese LLC, Murrays LIC LLC, Murrays Table LLC, Pace Dairy Foods Company, Paramount Logistics LLC, Pay Less Super Markets Inc., Peyton's-Southeastern Inc., Plum Labs LLC, Pontiac Foods Inc., Queen City Assurance Inc., RBF LLC, RGC Southeast Properties LLC, Ralphs Grocery Company, Relish Labs LLC, Rocket Newco Inc., Roundy's, Roundys Acquisition Corp., Roundys Illinois LLC, Roundys Inc., Roundys Supermarkets Inc., Second Story Inc., Shop-Rite LLC, Smiths Beverage of Wyoming Inc., Smiths Food & Drug Centers Inc., Southern Ice Cream Specialties Inc., Stallings Investors I LLC, Sunrise R&D Holdings LLC, Sunrise Technology LLC, TLC Corporate Services LLC, TLC Immunization Clinic LLC, TLC of Georgia LLC, The Kroger Co. of Michigan, The Little Clinic LLC, The Little Clinic Management Services LLC, The Little Clinic of Arizona LLC, The Little Clinic of Colorado LLC, The Little Clinic of IN LLC, The Little Clinic of Kansas LLC, The Little Clinic of Mississippi LLC, The Little Clinic of Ohio LLC, The Little Clinic of TX LLC, The Little Clinic of Tennessee LLC, The Little Clinic of VA LLC, Topvalco Inc., Ultimate Mart LLC, Ultra Mart Foods LLC, Vine Court Assurance Incorporated, Vitacost, Vitacost.com Inc., Woodmont Holdings LLC, and YOU Technology. Fadnavis said that while the pride of the nation has awakened, the Opposition raised questions on surgical strike. Mumbai: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said that questions would be raised on the nationalism of those speaking the language of Pakistan. Mr Fadnavis said that while the pride of the nation has awakened in the country, the Opposition raised questions on the surgical strike on terrorists camps in Pakistan. The question would be raised on the Oppositions nationalism too, he said. Without taking name of any political parties, the BJP leader alleged that the Opposition has been bringing up the issue of nationalism in the politics. The forces have destroyed terrorist camps in Pakistan. The whole world was supporting the surgical strike. However, the Opposition raised questions over the surgical strike and spoke Pakistans language, Mr Fadnavis said. Mr Fadnavis said that the pride of the nation has been awakened under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership that isolated Pakistan in the world following the Pulwama attack in February. Sometimes I feel bad about the nationalism being politicised. Some people questioned the surgical strike, while some are of late speaking the language of Pakistan, Mr Fadnavis said. Conagra Brands, Inc. engages in the manufacture and sale of processed and packaged foods. It operates through the following segments: Grocery and Snacks; Refrigerated and Frozen; International; and Foodservice. The Grocery and Snacks segment includes branded, shelf stable food products sold in various retail channels in the United States. The Refrigerated and Frozen segment comprises branded, temperature controlled food products sold in various retail channels in the United States. The International segment consists branded food products, in various temperature states, sold in various retail and foodservice channels outside of the United States. The Foodservice segment focuses in the branded and customized food products, including meals, entrees, sauces, and a variety of custom-manufactured culinary products packaged for sale to restaurants and other foodservice establishments in the United States. The company was founded by Alva Kinney and Frank Little in 1919 and is headquartered in Chicago, IL. Read More There is not enough analysis data for RWE Aktiengesellschaft. 4.1 Community Rank Outperform Votes RWE Aktiengesellschaft has received 32 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes RWE Aktiengesellschaft has received 20 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment RWE Aktiengesellschaft has received 61.54% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about RWE Aktiengesellschaft and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe RWE will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe RWE will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next SunTrust Banks, Inc. operates as the holding company for SunTrust Bank that provides various financial services for consumers, businesses, corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit entities in the United States. It operates in two segments, Consumer and Wholesale. The Consumer segment provides deposits and payments; home equity and personal credit lines; auto, student, and other lending products; credit cards; discount/online and full-service brokerage products; professional investment advisory products and services; and trust services, as well as family office solutions. This segment also offers residential mortgage products in the secondary market. The Wholesale segment provides capital markets solutions, including advisory, capital raising, and financial risk management; asset-based financing solutions, such as securitizations, asset-based lending, equipment financing, and structured real estate arrangements; cash management services and auto dealer financing solutions; investment banking solutions; and credit and deposit, fee-based product offering, multi-family agency lending, advisory, commercial mortgage brokerage, and tailored financing and equity investment solutions. This segment also offers treasury and payment solutions, such as operating various electronic and paper payment types, which comprise card, wire transfer, automated clearing house, check, and cash; and provides services clients to manage their accounts online. The company offers its products and services through a network of traditional and in-store branches, automated teller machines, Internet, mobile, and telephone banking channels. As of December 31, 2018, it operated 1,218 full-service banking offices located in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland, South Carolina, and the District of Columbia. SunTrust Banks, Inc. was founded in 1891 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Read More The Congress will contest 26 seats, while the NCP will fight 22 seats. Both the parties will give its two seats to the alliance partners. Mumbai: The Congress has announced its grand alliance with 56 political parties and social organisations in order to fight the saffron alliance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena in state. The Congress will contest 26 seats, while the NCP will fight 22 seats. Both the parties will give its two seats to the alliance partners. The Raju Shetti-led party will be given a seat by the Congress and NCP. The Hitendra Thakur-led Bahujan Vikas Aghadi will be given one seat (Palghar) from the Congresss quota. The NCP will give one seat to independent MLA Ravi Ranas Yuva Swabhiman Party. Addressing a joint press conference in south Mumbai, state Congress president Ashok Chavan said that the BJP-led government had betrayed the people of this country and the state. The people would teach a lesson to the BJP. The Opposition has united to give justice to the people of the country, he said. NCP state president Jayant Patil said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered greetings on the eve of Pakistans National Day to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and at the same time, took a stand against Pakistan. This shows the double standards (of Mr Modi) over Pakistan, which led the country in the wrong direction, he said. Raju Shetti of the Swabhimani Paksha said that the BJP had promised a maze of Achche din. The farmers and poor were feeling cheated by the BJP, he said. Genesee & Wyoming Inc. owns and leases freight railroads. It operates through three segments: North American Operations, Australian Operations, and U.K./European Operations. The company transports various commodities, including agricultural products, autos and auto parts, chemicals and plastics, coal and coke, food and kindred products, lumber and forest products, metallic ores, metals, minerals and stone, petroleum products, pulp and paper, waste, and other commodities. It owns or leases 122 freight railroads, including 105 short line railroads and 2 regional freight railroads located in the United States, 8 short line railroads located in Canada, 3 railroads located in Australia, 1 railroad located in the United Kingdom, 1 railroad in Poland and Germany, and 2 railroads in the Netherlands with a total of approximately 16,200 miles of track. The company also operates 6,200 additional miles of track that is owned or leased by others. In addition, it operates deep sea maritime containers and provides bulk haulage, including coal, aggregates, cement, and infrastructure services. Further, the company provides rail service at approximately 40 ports; rail-ferry service in North America, Australia, and Europe; and contract coal loading and railcar switching for industrial customers. Genesee & Wyoming Inc. was founded in 1899 and is headquartered in Darien, Connecticut. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Sherwin-Williams: Acquire Sourcing LLC, CTS National Corporation, Comex North America Inc., Compania Sherwin-Williams S.A. de C.V., Contract Transportation Systems Co., Dongguan Lilly Paint Industries Ltd, Duron, EPS (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., EPS B.V., Geocel Holdings, Geocel Limited, Guangdong Valspar Paints Manufacturing Co Ltd., Inver East Med S.A., Inver France SAS, Inver GmbH, Inver Industrial Coating SRL, Inver Polska Spoka Z O.O, Inver Spa, Invercolor Bologna Srl, Invercolor Ltd, Invercolor Roma Srl, Invercolor Torino Srl, Invercolor Toscana Srl, Isocoat Tintas e Vernizes Ltda, Isva Vernici Srl, Leighs Paints, M.A. Bruder & Sons, Omega Specialty Products & Services LLC, Oy Sherwin-Williams Finland Ab, PT Sherwin-Williams Indonesia, PT Valspar Indonesia, Paint Sundry Brands, Pinturas Condor S.A., Pinturas Industriales S.A., Piton Paints Limited, Plasti-Kote Co. Inc., Plasti-kote Limited, Productos Quimicos y Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Quest Automotive Products UK Limited, Quetzal Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Ronseal (Ireland) Limited, SWIMC LLC, SWIPCO Sherwin Williams do Brasil Propriedade Intelectual Ltda, Sherwin Williams Colombia S.A.S., Sherwin-Williams (Australia) Pty. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams (Belize) Limited, Sherwin-Williams (Caribbean) N.V., Sherwin-Williams (Ireland) Limited, Sherwin-Williams (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Sherwin-Williams (Nantong) Coatings Technology Co. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams (Nantong) Company Limited, Sherwin-Williams (S) Pte. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams (Shanghai) Limited, Sherwin-Williams (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams (Vietnam) Limited, Sherwin-Williams (West Indies) Limited, Sherwin-Williams Argentina I.y C.S.A., Sherwin-Williams Aruba VBA, Sherwin-Williams Automotive Mexico S.de R.L.de C.V., Sherwin-Williams Balkan S.R.L., Sherwin-Williams Bel Unitary Enterprise, Sherwin-Williams Benelux NV, Sherwin-Williams Canada Inc., Sherwin-Williams Cayman Islands Limited, Sherwin-Williams Chile S.A., Sherwin-Williams Coatings India Private Limited, Sherwin-Williams Coatings S.a r.l., Sherwin-Williams Czech Republic spol. s r.o, Sherwin-Williams Denmark A/S, Sherwin-Williams Deutschland GmbH, Sherwin-Williams Diversified Brands Limited, Sherwin-Williams France Finishes SAS, Sherwin-Williams Italy S.r.l., Sherwin-Williams Norway AS, Sherwin-Williams Paints Limited Liability Company, Sherwin-Williams Peru S.R.L., Sherwin-Williams Pinturas de Venezuela S.A., Sherwin-Williams Poland Sp. z o.o, Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings, Sherwin-Williams Realty Holdings Inc., Sherwin-Williams Services (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Sherwin-Williams Spain Coatings S.L., Sherwin-Williams Sweden AB, Sherwin-Williams UK Coatings Limited, Sherwin-Williams do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., Spanyc Paints Joint Stock Company, Syntema I Vaggeryd AB, Taiwan Valspar Co. Ltd., The Sherwin-Williams Acceptance Corporation, The Sherwin-Williams Headquarters Company, The Sherwin-Williams Manufacturing Company, The Sherwin-Williams US Licensing Company, The Valspar (Asia) Corporation Limited, The Valspar (Australia) Corporation Pty. Ltd., The Valspar (Finland) Corporation Oy, The Valspar (France) Corporation S.A.S., The Valspar (France) Research Corporation SAS, The Valspar (Malaysia) Corporation Sdn Bhd, The Valspar (Nantes) Corporation S.A.S., The Valspar (Singapore) Corporation Pte. Ltd, The Valspar (South Africa) Corporation (Pty) Ltd, The Valspar (Spain) Corporation S.R.L., The Valspar (Switzerland) Corporation AG, The Valspar (Thailand) Corporation Ltd., The Valspar (UK) Corporation Limited, The Valspar (Vietnam) Corporation Ltd., The Valspar Corporation, The Valspar Corporation Limitada, UAB Sherwin-Williams Baltic, Valspar (India) Coatings Corporation Private Limited, Valspar (Shanghai) Management Co. Ltd., Valspar (Uruguay) Corporation S.A., Valspar (WPC) Pty Ltd, Valspar Aries Coatings S. de R.L. de C.V., Valspar Automotive (UK) Corporation Limited, Valspar Automotive Australia Pty Limited, Valspar B.V., Valspar Coatings (Guangdong) Co. Ltd., Valspar Coatings (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Valspar Coatings (Tianjin) Co. Ltd, Valspar D.o.o Beograd, Valspar Industries (Ireland) Ltd., Valspar Industries (Italy) S.r.l., Valspar Industries GmbH, Valspar LLC, Valspar Mexicana S.A. de C.V., Valspar Paint (Australia) Pty Ltd, Valspar Paint (NZ) Limited, Valspar Powder Coatings Limited, Valspar Rock Company Limited (Japan), Valspar Specialty Paints LLC, and ZAO Sherwin-Williams. 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 The following companies are subsidiares of Vodafone Group: 360 Connect S.A., [email protected] Telecom, A-ccelerator B.V., A-ccelerator Holding B.V, AAA (Euro) Limited, AAA (MCR) Limited, AAA (UK) Limited, Acorn Communications Limited, Africonnect (Zambia) Limited, Ag Mercantile Company Private Limited, Al-Amin Investments Limited, Amsterdamse Beheer- en Consultingmaatschappij B.V., Apollo Submarine Cable System Limited, Array Holdings Limited, Asian Telecommunication Investments (Mauritius) Limited, Aspective Limited, Astec Communications Limited, Autoconnex Limited, Aztec Limited, BelCompany BV, Bluefish Apac Communications Pte. Ltd, Bluefish Communications, Bluefish Communications Limited, Business Serve Limited, C&W Worldwide Nigeria Limited, C.S.P. Solutions Limited, CCII (Mauritius) Inc., CGP India Investments Ltd., CGP Investments (Holdings) Limited, COOP Mobil s.r.o, CT Networks Limited, CWGNL S.A., CWW Operations Limited, Cable & Wireless Access Limited, Cable & Wireless Americas Systems Inc., Cable & Wireless Aspac Holdings Limited, Cable & Wireless CIS Services Limited, Cable & Wireless CIS Svyaz LLC, Cable & Wireless Capital Limited , Cable & Wireless Communications Data Network Services Limited, Cable & Wireless Communications Starclass Limited, Cable & Wireless Communications Technical Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd (Beijing Branch), Cable & Wireless Europe Holdings Limited, Cable & Wireless GN Limited, Cable & Wireless Global (India) Private Limited, Cable & Wireless Global Business Services Limited, Cable & Wireless Global Holding Limited, Cable & Wireless Global Telecommunication Services Limited, Cable & Wireless Holdco Limited, Cable & Wireless Networks India Private Limited, Cable & Wireless Trade Mark Management Limited, Cable & Wireless UK Holdings Limited, Cable & Wireless UK Services Limited, Cable & Wireless Waterside Holdings Limited, Cable & Wireless Worldwide, Cable & Wireless Worldwide Limited, Cable & Wireless Worldwide Pension Trustee Limited, Cable & Wireless Worldwide Services Limited, Cable & Wireless Worldwide Voice Messaging Limited, Cable & Wireless a-Services Inc, Cable & Wireless a-Services Limited, Cable and Wireless (India) Limited, Cable and Wireless (India) Limited Indian Branch Office, Cable and Wireless Nominee Limited, Cable and Wireless Worldwide South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Cavalry Holdings Ltd, Celfocus Solucoes Informaticas Para Telecomunicacoes S.A, Cellops Limited, Cellular Operations Limited, Central Communications Group Limited, Central Telecom (Northern) Limited, Centurion GSM Limited, Chelys Limited, City Cable (Holdings) Limited, Cobra do Brasil Servicos de Telematica ltda., Commnet Cellular Inc., Complete Network Technology, Connect (India) Mobile Technologies Private Limited, Cornerstone Telecommunications Infrastructure Limited, Dataroam Limited , Device Insight, Digital Island (UK) Ltd, Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited, East Africa Investment (Mauritius) Limited, Emtel Europe Limited, Energis (Ireland) Limited, Energis Communications Limited, Energis Holdings Limited, Energis Local Access Limited, Energis Management Limited, Energis Squared Limited, Erudite Systems Limited, Esprit Telecom B.V., Eudokia Limited, Euro Pacific Securities Ltd., Eurocall Holdings Limited, Europolitan Holdings AB (now Europolitan Vodafone AB), FB Holdings Limited, FM Associates (UK) Limited, FinCo Partner 1 B.V., FireFly Networks Limited, Flexphone Limited, GS Telecom (Pty) Limited, Gateway Communications Africa (UK) Limited, Gateway Communications Tanzania Limited, General Mobile Corporation, Generation Telecom Limited, Ghana Telecommunications, Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited, Global Cellular Rental Limited, Globe Limited, GrandCentrix GmbH, Grupo Corporativo ONO S.A.U., H3ga Properties (No 3) Pty Limited, HBO Nederland Cooperatief U.A., HBO Netherlands Channels sro, HBO Netherlands Distribution B.V., Hellas Online, How2 Telecom Limited, Hutchison Essar Ltd, Indus Towers Limited, Intercell Communications Limited, Internet Network Services Limited, Invitation Digital Limited, Ipergy Communications NV, Isis Telecommunications Management Limited, Jaguar Communications Limited, Jaykay Finholding (India) Private Limited, Jupicol (Proprietary) Limited, KABELCOM Braunschweig Gesellschaft Fur BreitbandkabelKommunikation Mit Beschrankter Haftung, KABELCOM Wolfsburg Gesellschaft Fur BreitbandkabelKommunikation Mit Beschrankter Haftung, Kabel Deutschland, Kabel Deutschland Holding, Kabel Deutschland Holding Erste Beteiligungs GmbH, Kabel Deutschland Holding Zweite Beteilgungs GmbH, Kabel Deutschland Neunte Beteiligungs GmbH, Kabel Deutschland Siebte Beteiligungs GmbH, Kabelfernsehen Munchen Servicenter GmbH & Co. KG, LG Financing Partnership, LGE HoldCo V B.V., LGE HoldCo VI B.V., LGE HoldCo VIII B.V., LGE Holdco VII B.V., LLC Vodafone Enterprise Ukraine, Le Bunt Holdings Limited, Legend Communications Limited, Liberty Global, Liberty Global Content Netherlands B.V., London Hydraulic Power Company, M-PESA Foundation, M-PESA Holding Co. Limited, ML Integration Group Limited, ML Integration Limited, ML Integration Services Limited, MV Healthcare Services Private Limited, Mannesmann AG, MetroHoldings Limited, Mezzanine Ware Proprietary Limited (RF), Mirambo Limited, Misrfone Trading Company LLC, MobiFon S.A., Mobile Commerce Solutions Limited, Mobile Phone Centre Limited, Mobile Wallet VM1, Mobile Wallet VM2, Mobile by Sainsburys Limited, Mobiles 4 Business.com Limited, Mobileworld Communications Pty Limited, Mobileworld Operating Pty Ltd, Mobilvest, Motifpros 1 (Proprietary) Limited, Multi Risk Indemnity Company Limited, Multi Risk Limited, ND Callus Info Services Private Limited, Nadal Trading Company Private Limited, Nat Comm Air Limited, National Communications Backbone Company Limited, Navtrak Ltd, Netforce Group Limited, Netgrid Telecom SRL, Number Portability Company (Proprietary) Limited, ONO, Omega Telecom Holdings Private Limited, Oni Way Infocomunicacoes S.A, Oskar Mobil S.R.O., Oxygen Solutions Limited, P.C.P. (North West) Limited, PPL Pty Limited, PT Network Services Limited, PTI Telecom Limited, Peoples Phone Limited, Pinnacle Cellular Group Limited, Pinnacle Cellular Limited, Plex Limited, Plustech Mercantile Company Private Limited, Prime Metals Ltd., Project Telecom Holdings Limited, Quickcomm Software Solutions, Radio Opt GmbH, Rian Mobile Limited, SBC SMART CITY 1517 B.V., SMMS Investments Pvt Limited, Safaricom Limited, Safenet N.P A., Sarmady Communications, Scarlet Ibis Investments 23 (Pty) Limited, Scorpios Beverages Pvt. Ltd, Silver Stream Investments Limited, Singlepoint (4U) Limited, Singlepoint (4U) Ltd., Singlepoint Payment Services Limited, Siro Limited, Spar Aerospace (Nigeria) Limited, Sport TV Portugal S.A, Starnet, Stentor Communications Limited, Stentor Limited, Storage Technology Services (Pty) Limited, T.W. Telecom Limited, T3 Telecommunications Limited, TKS Telepost Kabel-Service Kaiserslautern Beteiligungs GmbH, TKS Telepost Kabel-Service Kaiserslautern GmbH & Co. KG, TNAS Limited, TSM NZ Limited, Talkland Airtime Services Limited, Talkland Australia Pty Limited, Talkland Communications Limited, Talkland International Limited, Talkland Midlands Limited, Talkmobile Limited, Tele2 Italia SPA, Tele2 Spain, Telecom Investments India Private Limited, Telecommunications Europe Limited, Ternhill Communications Limited, The Cobra Group, The Eastern Leasing Company Limited, The Old Telecom Sales Co. Limited, Thus Group Holdings Limited, Thus Group Limited, Thus Limited, Thus Profit Sharing Trustees Limited, TnT Expense Management LLC, Tomorrow Street GP S.a r.l., Tomorrow Street SCA, Torenspits II B.V., Townley Communications Limited, Trans Crystal Ltd., UMT Investments Limited, UPC Nederland Holding I B.V., UPC Nederland Holding II B.V., UPC Nederland Holding III B.V., Unified Communications, Uniqueair Limited, Urbana Teleunion Rostock GmbH & Co.KG, Usha Martin Telematics Limited, VAPL No. 2 Pty Limited, VBA (Mauritius) Limited, VBA Holdings Limited, VBA International (SL) Limited, VBA International Limited, VEI S.r.l., VM SA, VND S.p.A, VSSB Vodafone Shared Services Budapest Private Limited Company, Verwaltung Urbana Teleunion Rostock GmbH, Victus Networks S.A., Vizzavi Finance Limited, Vizzavi Limited, Voda Limited, Vodacall Limited, Vodacash s.p.r.l., Vodacom (Pty) Limited, Vodacom Business (Angola) Limitada, Vodacom Business (Ghana) Limited, Vodacom Business (Kenya) Limited, Vodacom Business Africa (Nigeria) Limited, Vodacom Business Africa Group (Pty) Limited, Vodacom Business Africa Group Services Limited, Vodacom Business Cameroon SA, Vodacom Business Cote Divoire S.A.R.L., Vodacom Congo (RDC) SA, Vodacom Financial Services (Proprietary) Limited, Vodacom Group Limited, Vodacom Insurance Administration Company (Proprietary) Limited, Vodacom Insurance Company (RF) Limited, Vodacom International Holdings (Pty) Limited, Vodacom International Limited, Vodacom Lesotho (Pty) Limited, Vodacom Life Assurance Company (RF) Limited, Vodacom Payment Services (Proprietary) Limited, Vodacom Properties No 1 (Proprietary) Limited, Vodacom Properties No.2 (Pty) Limited, Vodacom Tanzania Limited Zanzibar, Vodacom Tanzania Public Limited Company, Vodacom UK Limited, Vodafone (NI) Limited, Vodafone (New Zealand) Hedging Limited, Vodafone (Scotland) Limited, Vodafone 2, Vodafone 4 UK, Vodafone 5 Limited, Vodafone 5 UK, Vodafone 6 UK, Vodafone Albania Sh.A, Vodafone Alternatif Telekom Hizmetleri A.S., Vodafone Americas 4, Vodafone Americas Virginia Inc., Vodafone And Qatar Foundation L.L.C, Vodafone Asset Management Services S.a r.l., Vodafone Australia Pty Limited, Vodafone Automotive Deutschland GmbH, Vodafone Automotive Electronic Systems S.r.L, Vodafone Automotive France S.A.S, Vodafone Automotive Iberia S.L, Vodafone Automotive Italia S.p.A, Vodafone Automotive Japan K.K, Vodafone Automotive Korea Limited, Vodafone Automotive SpA, Vodafone Automotive Technologies (Beijing) Co Ltd, Vodafone Automotive Telematics Development S.A.S, Vodafone Automotive Telematics S.A, Vodafone Automotive UK Limited, Vodafone Belgium SA/NV, Vodafone Benelux Limited, Vodafone Bilgi Ve Iletisim Hizmetleri AS, Vodafone Business Services Limited, Vodafone Business Solutions Limited, Vodafone Canada Inc, Vodafone Cellular Limited, Vodafone Central Services Limited, Vodafone China Limited (China), Vodafone China Limited (Hong Kong), Vodafone Connect 2 Limited, Vodafone Connect Limited, Vodafone Consolidated Holdings Limited, Vodafone Corporate Limited, Vodafone Corporate Secretaries Limited, Vodafone Czech Republic A.S., Vodafone DC Pension Trustee Company Limited, Vodafone Dagitim Hizmetleri A.S., Vodafone Data, Vodafone Distribution Holdings Limited, Vodafone Egypt Telecommunications S.A.E., Vodafone Elektronik Para Ve Odeme Hizmetleri A.S., Vodafone Empresa Brasil Telecomunicacoes Ltda, Vodafone Empresa Mexico S.de R.L. de C.V., Vodafone Enabler Espana S.L., Vodafone Enterprise Australia Pty Limited, Vodafone Enterprise Austria GmbH, Vodafone Enterprise Bahrain W.L.L., Vodafone Enterprise Bulgaria EOOD, Vodafone Enterprise Chile SA, Vodafone Enterprise Communications Technical Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Vodafone Enterprise Corporate Secretaries Limited, Vodafone Enterprise Denmark A/S, Vodafone Enterprise Equipment Limited, Vodafone Enterprise Europe (UK) Limited, Vodafone Enterprise Europe (UK) Limited Czech Branch, Vodafone Enterprise Europe (UK) Limited DubaiI Branch, Vodafone Enterprise Finland OY, Vodafone Enterprise France SAS, Vodafone Enterprise Germany GmbH, Vodafone Enterprise Global Businesses S.a r.l., Vodafone Enterprise Global Limited, Vodafone Enterprise Global Network HK Ltd, Vodafone Enterprise Global Network Pte. Ltd., Vodafone Enterprise Hong Kong Ltd, Vodafone Enterprise Italy S.r.L, Vodafone Enterprise Korea Limited, Vodafone Enterprise Luxembourg S.A., Vodafone Enterprise Netherlands BV, Vodafone Enterprise Norway AS, Vodafone Enterprise Regional Business Singapore Pte.Ltd., Vodafone Enterprise Singapore Pte.Ltd, Vodafone Enterprise Spain S.L.U. Portugal Branch, Vodafone Enterprise Spain SLU, Vodafone Enterprise Sweden AB, Vodafone Enterprise Switzerland AG, Vodafone Erste Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Vodafone Espana S.A.U., Vodafone Euro Hedging Limited, Vodafone Euro Hedging Two, Vodafone Europe B.V., Vodafone Europe UK, Vodafone European Investments, Vodafone European Portal Limited, Vodafone Finance Limited, Vodafone Finance Luxembourg Limited, Vodafone Finance Sweden, Vodafone Finance UK Limited, Vodafone Financial Operations, Vodafone Financial Services B.V., Vodafone Fixed Ltd, Vodafone Foundation, Vodafone Foundation Australia Pty Limited, Vodafone Gestioni S.p.A, Vodafone Ghana Mobile Financial Services Limited, Vodafone Global Content Services Limited, Vodafone Global Enterprise (Hong Kong) Limited, Vodafone Global Enterprise (Italy) S.R.L., Vodafone Global Enterprise (Japan) K.K., Vodafone Global Enterprise (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Vodafone Global Enterprise Limited, Vodafone Global Enterprise Russia LLC, Vodafone Global Enterprise Taiwan Limited, Vodafone Global Enterprise Telecommunications (Hellas) A.E., Vodafone Global Network Limited, Vodafone Global Network Limited Slovakia Branch, Vodafone Global Services Private Limited, Vodafone GmbH, Vodafone Group (Directors) Trustee Limited, Vodafone Group Pension Trustee Limited, Vodafone Group Services GmbH, Vodafone Group Services Ireland Limited, Vodafone Group Services Limited, Vodafone Group Services No.2 Limited, Vodafone Group Share Trustee Limited, Vodafone Hire Limited, Vodafone Holding A.S., Vodafone Holdings (Jersey) Limited, Vodafone Holdings (SA) Proprietary Limited, Vodafone Holdings Europe S.L.U., Vodafone Holdings Luxembourg Limited, Vodafone Hutchison Australia Pty Limited, Vodafone Hutchison Finance Pty Limited, Vodafone Hutchison Receivables Pty Limited, Vodafone IP Licensing Limited, Vodafone India Digital Limited, Vodafone India Limited, Vodafone India Services Private Limited, Vodafone India Ventures Limited, Vodafone Institut fur Gesellschaft und Kommunikation GmbH, Vodafone Intermediate Enterprises Limited, Vodafone International 1 S.a.r.l. Luxembourg Zweigniederlassung Bern, Vodafone International 1 S.a r.l., Vodafone International 2 Limited, Vodafone International Holdings B.V., Vodafone International Holdings Limited, Vodafone International M S.a r.l., Vodafone International Operations Limited, Vodafone International Services LLC, Vodafone Investment UK, Vodafone Investments (SA) Proprietary Limited, Vodafone Investments Australia Limited, Vodafone Investments Limited, Vodafone Investments Luxembourg S.a r.l., Vodafone Investments Luxembourg S.a r.l. Luxembourg Zweigniederlassung Bern, Vodafone Ireland Distribution Limited, Vodafone Ireland Ltd., Vodafone Ireland Marketing Limited, Vodafone Ireland Property Holdings Limited, Vodafone Ireland Retail Limited, Vodafone Italia S.p.A., Vodafone Jersey Dollar Holdings Limited, Vodafone Jersey Finance, Vodafone Jersey Yen Holdings Unlimited, Vodafone Kabel Deutschland Field Services GmbH, Vodafone Kabel Deutschland GmbH, Vodafone Kabel Deutschland Kundenbetreuung GmbH, Vodafone Kenya Limited, Vodafone Leasing Limited, Vodafone Libertel B.V., Vodafone Limited, Vodafone Luxembourg 5 S.a r.l., Vodafone Luxembourg 5 S.a r.l. Luxembourg Zweigniederlassung Bern, Vodafone Luxembourg S.a r.l., Vodafone Luxembourg S.a r.l. Luxembourg Zweigniederlassung Bern, Vodafone M-PESA SH.P.K., Vodafone M-Pesa S.A, Vodafone M.C. Mobile Services Limited , Vodafone Magyarorszag Mobile Tavkozlesi Zartkoruen Mukodo Reszvenytarsasag, Vodafone Malta Limited, Vodafone Marketing UK , Vodafone Maroc SARL, Vodafone Mauritius Ltd., Vodafone Mobile Commerce Limited, Vodafone Mobile Communications Limited, Vodafone Mobile Enterprises Limited, Vodafone Mobile NZ Limited, Vodafone Mobile Network Limited, Vodafone Mobile Operations Limited, Vodafone Mobile Services Limited, Vodafone Multimedia Limited, Vodafone Nederland Holding I B.V., Vodafone Nederland Holding II B.V., Vodafone Nederland Holding III B.V., Vodafone Net Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S., Vodafone Network Pty Limited, Vodafone New Zealand Foundation Limited, Vodafone New Zealand Limited, Vodafone Next Generation Services Limited, Vodafone Nominees Limited1, Vodafone ONO S.A.U., Vodafone Oceania Limited, Vodafone Old Show Ground Site Management Limited, Vodafone Overseas Finance Limited, Vodafone Overseas Holdings Limited, Vodafone Panafon International Holdings B.V., Vodafone Panafon UK, Vodafone Partner Services Limited, Vodafone Payment Solutions S.a r.l., Vodafone Portugal Comunicacoes Pessoais S.A., Vodafone Procurement Company S.a r.l., Vodafone Property Investments Limited, Vodafone Pty Limited, Vodafone Qatar Q.S.C., Vodafone Retail (Holdings) Limited , Vodafone Retail Limited, Vodafone Roaming Services S.a r.l., Vodafone Romania S.A, Vodafone Romania M - Payments SRL, Vodafone Romania Technologies SRL, Vodafone Sales & Services Limited, Vodafone Satellite Services Limited, Vodafone Servicios SL.U, Vodafone Servizi E Tecnologie S.R.L, Vodafone Servicos Empresariais Brasil Ltda., Vodafone Shared Services Romania SRL, Vodafone Specialist Communications Limited, Vodafone Stiftung Deutschland Gemeinnutzige GmbH, Vodafone Technology Solutions Limited, Vodafone Teknoloji Hizmetleri A.S., Vodafone Tele-Services (India) Holdings Limited, Vodafone Telecel-Comunicates Pessoais S.A., Vodafone Telecommunications (India) Limited, Vodafone Telekomunikasyon A.S, Vodafone Towers Limited, Vodafone UK Content Services Limited, Vodafone UK Investments Limited , Vodafone UK Limited1 , Vodafone US Inc, Vodafone Ventures Limited1 , Vodafone Vierte Verwaltungs AG, Vodafone Worldwide Holdings Limited, Vodafone Yen Finance Limited , Vodafone m-pesa Limited, Vodafone-Central Limited Vodaphone Limited, Vodafone-Panafon Hellenic Telecommunications Company S.A., VodafoneZiggo Group Holding B.V, Vodata Limited , Vouchercloud SA (Pty) Ltd, Wataneya Telecommunications S.A.E, Waterberg Lodge (Proprietary) Limited, Wayfinder, Wheatfields Investments 276 (Proprietary) Limited, Wireless Interactions & NFC Accelerator 2013 B.V., Woodend Cellular Limited, Woodend Communications Limited, Woodend Group Limited, Woodend Holdings Limited, XB Facilities B.V, XLink Communications (Proprietary) Limited, Your Communications Group Limited, ZUM B.V., ZYB, Zelitron S.A., Zesko B.V., Ziggo B.V., Ziggo Bond Company B.V., Ziggo Deelnemingen B.V., Ziggo Finance 2 B.V., Ziggo Financing Partnership, Ziggo Holding B.V., Ziggo Netwerk B.V., Ziggo Netwerk II B.V., Ziggo Services B.V., Ziggo Services Employment B.V., Ziggo Services Netwerk 2 B.V., Ziggo Zakelijk Services B.V., and Zoranet Connectivity Services B.V.. A Kerala scientist wins the highest civilian honour for women for designing a low-cost brassiere that detects breast cancer. On International Women's Day, Dr A Seema bagged the Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian honour for women for developing a sensor-attached-brassiere to diagnose breast cancer in women. Breast cancer has one of the highest rates of incidence in India. Sadly, the latest cancer statistics in India states that out of every two women who develop breast cancer, one dies. The disease is increasingly being detected in women in the age of 30-40 years and sometimes, even younger. The most prevalent method of screening is through a mammogram but doctors often advise the test only after the age of 50 due to the effects of radiation. To tackle these shortcomings, Seema, a scientist at C-MET (Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology), Thrissur invented this unique bra. The devices sensor will detect a higher body temperature if you have any abnormality in the breasts Dr A. Seema, Scientist at C-MET. The Malabar Cancer Centre asked us to develop a suitable device or methodology which can be used in a community for breast cancer screening, Seema said. MCC's request made Seema and her team brainstorm for a solution and find a suitable device. So, how will a woman find out that she has been diagnosed breast cancer? The device's sensor will detect a higher body temperature if you have any abnormality in the breasts, she says adding that the undergarment is as good as a common bra and doesn't emit any radiation. But the road to the final product was not without hindrance. For Seema, convincing people about the concept was a major challenge and till the time they went for clinical trials, many were reluctant to accept its authenticity. Speaking about commercially producing the garment and its cost, the inventor reveals that it is already in the process. The bra will be very much affordable to the common people, Dr added. Prior to the Nari Shakti Puraskar, Seema had also won an award from the Ministry of Science and Technology of Rs 5 lakh for her contributions for the development of women through the use of science. Together, the researchers have been able to build a full end-to-end automated DNA storage device. The entire process for the 5-byte message took 21 hours to convert back and forth. The researchers have come up with ways to make the process both time and cost efficient. In the future, you will be storing data not into megabytes or gigabytes, but into DNA. In what comes as a significant achievement, Microsoft and researchers from the University of Washington have been able to translate digital information into DNA and then back to bits. Together, the researchers have been able to build a full end-to-end automated DNA storage device, Engadget reports. The prototype device converted the word Hello into DNA. The device first encoded the bits (1's and 0's) into DNA sequences (A's, C's, T's, G's). It then synthesized the DNA and stored it as a liquid. This was then read by a DNA sequencer, and a software translated the sequences back into bits. The entire process for the 5-byte message took 21 hours to convert back and forth. The researchers have come up with ways to make the process both time and cost efficient. The data converted through this process from the word Hello yielded approximately 1 mg of DNA, and just 4 micrograms were retained for sequencing. This basically means, the current requirement of having warehouse-sized data centres could do away for a few standard-size dice using this method. The device is still a proof-of-concept, however, Microsoft hopes it will advance DNA storage technology. A mayor in northwest France close to PM Edouard Philippe has resigned after several nude pictures of him were released by a woman. Philippe's office on Friday welcomed the resignation, describing it as a responsible decision. (Photo:Twitter) Paris: A mayor in northwest France close to Prime Minister Edouard Philippe has resigned after several nude pictures of him were released by a woman who claims she was the victim of unwanted advances. Philippe's office on Friday welcomed the resignation, describing it as a "responsible decision". Luc Lemonnier, a 50-year-old father of four who replaced Philippe as mayor of the Channel port city of Le Havre in 2017, announced his resignation on Thursday in order to "protect his family." He denied improper behaviour, saying "the exchange of messages occurred without any coercive intent and between consenting adults." Lemonnier had filed a libel suit last June over the publication of the text messages, though prosecutors later dropped the case. "Municipal council members received a picture of the mayor along with a description of behaviours which he denies," Lemonnier's lawyer Christian Saint-Palais told news agency AFP. But the woman who released the photos said she felt she had no other option. "It was a very difficult situation," she told a local radio station this week, on condition of anonymity. "I've been married for more than 20 years, I have children and our relationship is fulfilling -- I was not involved at all in any games of seduction," she said. The mayor's resignation is an embarrassment for the centrist Republic on the Move government which is hoping to win over Philippe's former political stronghold in the 2020 municipal elections. Before signing on as prime minister to President Emmanuel Macron in 2017, Philippe served, both as mayor and as a member of parliament for Le Havre, as a member of the conservative party the Republicans. Pakistan FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi said he discussed the issue of Masood Azhar with close ally China. Mr Qureshi who returned from Beijing on Thursday after attending the first strategic bilateral dialogue between the two all-weather allies. (File Photo) Islamabad: Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said he discussed the issue of Masood Azhar with close ally China, which blocked for the fourth time a proposal at the UN to designate the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief as a ''global terrorist''. Mr Qureshi who returned from Beijing on Thursday after attending the first strategic bilateral dialogue between the two all-weather allies, heaped praise on China. "We take each other into confidence on all issues. Sometime they guide us and sometimes they change their policy after listening to us," he said after talks with Chinese Foriegn Minister Wang Yi. Mr Qureshi said he discussed the issue of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Azhar with China, which used its right of technical hold to stop a proposal by France, the US and the UK against him at the UN Security Council. China, a veto-wielding permanent member of the Security Council, for the fourth time blocked a bid in the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist", saying it wanted "more time to examine" the proposal. The technical hold is valid for up to six months and it can be again extended by up to three months. India has described the outcome as "disappointing". The JeM claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama suicide attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead and raised tensions between India and Pakistan. "As you know, China despite a lot of pressure used the right of technical hold in order to collect more information on the issue.... We talked what US, China and UK were thinking about it," Mr Qureshi said. He said the two sides held discussion on the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanction Committee but refused to share details. He said Pakistan was aware what the world wanted on the issue of Azhar. "We are aware. We know what the world wants, what we should do, what are our interests, and what should be our policy. It (issue of Azhar) should be seen in larger context...It should be seen in the context of money laundering and what FATF is saying because it is all linked," he said. Qureshi further said that discussion with China on the issue of Masood Azhar will continue. He also said that Pakistan was analysing the contents of the dossier given by India on Pulwama. "We are serious about it and are analysing the dossier and (will) present our findings to you (media) and to the world," the foreign minister said. Amidst the Indo-Pak tensions following the Pulwama terror attack by a JeM suicide bomber, Mr Qureshi confirmed that Masood Azhar was present in Pakistan but said he was "very ill." He said Pakistan was committed to address terrorism and eliminate it completely from the country. Indonesias largest market is the United States, which in 2018 consumed almost half of its catch. Since 2014, tuna exports to the US have increased by 130 per cent. About 3.3 million people work in the industry. Transparency and a modern processing have made the country a point of reference. Jakarta (AsiaNews/Agencies) Indonesia is the worlds largest producer of tuna, with an annual catch worth an estimated US billion. Roughly one in six tuna caught worldwide over the past three years came from Indonesia, which accounted for 16 per cent of world tuna production last year, Indonesian Fisheries authorities report. The United States is the countrys largest market consuming nearly half of its tuna catch last year, mostly as frozen whole fish or fillets. Indonesias tuna exports to the US have soared 130 per cent since 2014. Japan, which introduced sushi to the world, imported nearly a quarter of Indonesias tuna last year. The rest went mainly to Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and South Korea. For some years, Indonesian authorities have been working at making the industry more transparent to reassure its customers about its supply chains. With an estimated 3.3 million people employed in the sector, the government has had to fight perceptions of poor labour practices, human trafficking, and rampant illegal fishing in the western Pacific. Under Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Susi Pudjiastuti, Indonesia was the first fishing nation to make public real-time data on the location of all vessels in its waters. Introducing that system made it a global leader in terms of transparency. Under President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo's administration, hundreds of foreign fishing boats caught fishing illegally in Indonesian waters have been sunk, often by theatrical explosions. The country has also developed a modern and efficient processing industry to cope with the volume of fish that is caught. Indonesian fishing vessels have long used large nets capable of lifting entire schools of tuna from the ocean. By this method, Indonesia catches about as many fish as top tuna producers Japan and Taiwan. Fishing by purse seine a large wall of netting risks overfishing however, leaving insufficient fish to repopulate a given area. In recent years, Indonesia has emerged as second only to Japan in pole and handline fishing, where fish are caught one by one, eliminating the risk of hauling in an unintended catch. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, there were 15.23 million births in 2018, two million fewer than in the previous year. In 2029 the population will start to decline. In 2050 the employed will have to pay support 400 million people over the age of 60. Beijing (AsiaNews/Agencies) Despite government efforts to encourage couples to have more children, the birthrate in various Chinese regions and in Beijing continued to decline in 2018, Reuters reports, citing the China Daily, the daily newspaper of the Chinese Communist Party. In Chinas capital, the birthrate was 8.24 per 1,000 people last year, down from 9.06 in 2017. In Chinas financial capital, Shanghai, the birth rate dropped to 7.2 per 1,000, from 8.1 in 2017. China recorded 15.23 million births last year, down 2 million from 2017; the second consecutive annual decline, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The marriage rate is also falling, down to 0.72 per cent last year from 0.99 per cent in 2013, NBS data showed. The data add further evidence to the progressive aging of the countrys population, which the authorities would like to counter by eliminating every barrier to having children. Yet, few Chinese couples want to have more than one child, a sign that people are still struggling to get over 30 years of restrictive family planning. As the workforce declines, the situation will weigh heavily on the countrys pension system. China's population is expected to peak at 1.4 billion in 2029 and then begin to decline, which could reduce the workforce by as many as 200 million people by the middle of the century. At that point, the dwindling number of workers will be under pressure to support more than 400 million people aged 60 or over, putting at risk the country's pension, health and social service system. In 2015 the Chinese authorities repealed the one-child law adopted in 1979 under Deng Xiaoping, allowing couples to have two children. When it was enforced, the 1979 law was applied with radical and ruthless methods: human rights were violated, huge fines were imposed, and sterilisation and forced abortions were practised. Due to a preference for boys, especially in the countryside, the law led a sex imbalance as parents chose to abort female fetuses. With an estimated sex gap of 40 million females, the net result has been the development of women trafficking from North Korea, Vietnam and Cambodia. Likely to be priced between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 7.5 lakh (ex-showroom). Codenamed the Renault RBC, it will offer a 5+2 seating layout. The Kwid-based MPV is expected to be launched in July 2019. Will be a sub-4m offering positioned below Lodgy and Ertiga. Likely to be priced between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 7.5 lakh (ex-showroom). Will be based on the same CMF-A platform as the Kwid and Datsun redi-GO. When launched, it will be the longest vehicle based on the CMF-A platform. Premium features like DRLs, projector headlamps, up to four airbags expected. Unlikely to be offered with a diesel engine. Once again, a test mule of Renaults upcoming Kwid-based MPV has been spotted on a highway near Chennai. The MPV looks close to production-ready and is likely to be launched in July 2019 as hinted by Renaults new CEO Venkatram Mamillapalle. "We have new product launches in 2019 and 2020. Two new products will be launched, one in July (2019) and the other, the year after that," Mamillapalle told PTI. So, what do the new spy shots reveal about the Kwid-based MPV? Well, the headlamp unit features a projector setup while the LED DRLs are located near the fog lamps casing further down on the front bumper. This is the first time we are getting a good look at the tail lamps and they look like sleek wraparound units and we expect them to get some kind of LED treatment as well. The new images also show 15-inch alloy wheels (blacked out it this case). Also, under the camouflage is what seems to be black body cladding (they could be seen in a previous set of spy shots). Although it is based on the same CMF-A platform as the Kwid and redi-GO, the MPV looks considerably wider than the two hatchbacks. Although the RBC will be a sub-4 metre offering, it will be the longest car to be built on the modular platform till date. The redi-GO measures 3429mm in length while the bigger Kwid is 3679mm long. On the inside, the Kwid-based MPV is expected to get a grey and beige dual tone interior theme with silver accents. The steering wheel will feature three spokes and a flat-ish bottom. The infotainment unit should get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, like the Kwid and Duster. Safety features like dual-front airbags, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors will come as standard to comply with upcoming safety norms. Higher variants of the MPV are expected to get front side airbags as well, taking the tally to four. As far as the powertrain is concerned, we expect the Kwids 1.0-litre motor (68PS/91Nm) to not sufficient enough to haul the MPV. So, expect it to get a bigger engine, or at least a turbocharged version of the 1.0-litre motor. Expect an AMT (automated-manual transmission) besides a standard 5-speed manual as well. A diesel engine is unlikely to be offered with the MPV since several carmakers, including Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors, are planning to discontinue diesel versions of their small cars post the implementation of BSVI norms in April 2020. The two homegrown manufacturers suggest that diesel-powered cars will be substantially more expensive than their petrol counterparts once stricter emission norms come in place. When the Kwid-based MPV is launched, expect it to be priced in the Rs 5 lakh to Rs 7.5 lakh range. It is likely to be positioned beneath Renaults Lodgy and the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. Disclaimer: This article has not been edited by Deccan Chronicle and is taken from a syndicated feed. Photos: CarDekho. Ajay Devgn has found his eight ways to Friday in the next two years where he will be seen having back to back releases. Ostensibly, Ajay has not only found a way to emulate Akshay Kumars style of doing multiples films in a year but he has actually done a bit better. After the release and success of his last oeuvre at the turnstiles Total Dhamaal Ajay has a fantastic lineup. His next release will be De De Pyaar De where he is experimenting with a romantic comedy after many years. The trailer of that film will be out on his birthday on April 2. That will be followed by his historical war drama Taanaji: The Unsung Warrior and then by Neeraj Pandeys Chanakya. Ajay will also be working on the Syed Abdul Rahim biopic in the days to come with Badhaai Ho director Amit Sharma and producer Boney Kapoor. He has also greenlighted a film for Luv Ranjan along with Ranbir Kapoor. He had another film announcement recently that is based on the 70s and will see him as IAF officer Wing Commander Vijay Karnik, informs the source. Besides, Ajay has also agreed to do extended cameos in films like Rajamoulis RRR and Rohit Shettys Sooryavanshi, which makes for eight releases. With an actor like Akshay Kumar teaching other actors how to manage time and do several films in a year, we are sure that many more biggies will also follow suit. Social media is a boon to many, but it is also a platform where hatred is spread. The recent incident in which social media giant Facebook live-streamed the massacre at a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, showed how worse it can get. Before Facebook removed the 17-minute-long video, it had been played around 4,000 times. The worst part was that it had been circulated on other platforms like YouTube and WhatsApp by then. However, the company stated that no user had reported about the video while it was being live-streamed. The first user report came after 12 minutes. Facebook confirmed that almost 1.5 million videos of the mosque shootings were removed within a day of the attack. Facebook received a lot of flak for live-streaming the video and many questioned its ethics. There were many who threatened to quit the platform because of this, however, it was Tony Fernandes, AirAsias CEO, who quit Facebook suggesting that the platform needed a cleanup and that they could have done more to prevent such hatred being spread. Tony had around 6,70,000 followers on Facebook. It is a great platform to communicate... Strong engagement and very useful but New Zealand was too much for me to take along with all the other issues, he tweeted after quitting Facebook. Tony, who has 1.3 million followers on Twitter, also thought of quitting Twitter at one stage, but didnt. I totally agree with the stand Tony Fernandes has taken. At many times, I myself have thought about deactivating my account, because of the sheer lack of ethics, but I have had second thoughts on how am I going to gather business if I were to quit this huge medium. Thats the advantage and control that Facebook or any other social media platform has over us. We depend so much on social networking these days, which has started taking our lives, be it in the form of our profits, business dealings or even marketing. I cant think of a solution here, but there is always a better way of maintaining and policing the social media ethics, says Aswathy Pillai, a model and emc. Aswathy pillai She adds: Its saddening to see so much hatred on social media these days whether it is based on religion, politics or race. This trend started a few years back and its going for the worse with many more considering this to be a forum for venting out their hatred against what they oppose. And the horrifying fact is that Facebook itself doesnt have a control of it or maybe they choose to ignore all thats going on. The massacre video was removed by Facebook only after being watched and shared by millions around the world. When social media is a boon to people like me, where we showcase our business or talents, or even does product sales, it is being misused in several ways. Adarsh S.V. Nair, head of Information Security of a leading MNC, believes that the recent attack in New Zealand is an example of the serious misuse of features like openness and reach of social media. When the feature of real-time sharing of content to a larger audience was being misused to spread fake news, there emerged methodologies to tackle the problem. While algorithms to devalue fake news have started to gain momentum, there raised the problem of extremists spreading their ideas, which can be violent and explicit demonstrations, especially in the form of videos. Tony Fernandes marked his protest on the issue by quitting Facebook. As a renowned entrepreneur, with numerous followers on social media, his move brought worlds attention to the issue, which might accelerate the urgency to find a solution for the same. The possibilities of technologies like Analytics along with Machine Learning and Computer Vision need to be explored in tackling this problem. Entrepreneur Anitha Thomas asserts that we need to maintain absolute control of what we do on Facebook. Those who are part of the platform are expected to maintain a high degree of maturity and self control. Tony Fernandes said it was heartbreaking for him to see the video. Fernandes decision is hardly surprising to me. We appreciate the purity of his thoughts and actions, and the accolades he received thereafter. There is too much negativity and exhibitionism on social media nowadays. All kinds of violence such as against women, minorities, children etc., are being normalised and people consume such rubbish with ghoulish glee and fascination. To preserve ones sanity, it is better to quit such platforms. Following a directive from the collector, the district social welfare department conducted an inquiry and found the complaint to be true. (Representational image) Chennai: A woman teacher has been jailed after being charged with sexually abusing her school students at Arani in Tiruvannamalai district. Her arrest followed complaint lodged by none other than her husband before the district collector saying the police were refusing to accept his petition and that his wife has been a repeat offender despite being transferred out from various schools for her perverse criminal conduct. U. Nithya (30), a teacher of English at the Paiyur government high school, had allegedly abused her students at school or during her visits to their houses for tuition classes. She would even capture the intimate scenes on her mobile phone, her husband Umesh Kumar, also a government school teacher, told the district collector in his complaint made in December last year. Kumar had found intimate pictures and porn visuals of the students on her phone and confronted her. When she continued to indulge in such misconduct, the two had arguments and she moved out to live separately. Meanwhile, some of the schools where she had worked over the last few years transferred her out after her bad conduct became known. Following a directive from the collector, the district social welfare department conducted an inquiry and found the complaint to be true. The district child protection unit lodged complaint with the police and a case was registered against the women teacher under Sections 10 (aggravated sexual assault) and 14 (punishment for using child for pornographic purposes) of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act. Police said preliminary investigation showed that the woman had sexually abused some students in the age group of 15-17 and even captured those images on her phone for sharing online. So far, we have evidence of her abusing two boys, said an officer, adding that the teacher would go to the houses of the students for taking tuition classes and lure them into intimate relationship. Sadly, though the husband had approached various police stations complaining of his wifes conduct, no action was taken. And schools too failed to take firm action against her, choosing to merely transfer her out. District Primary Education Officer V Jayakumar has now removed Nithya from her posting. She has been remanded to custody by the Fast Track Mahila Court at Tiruvannamalai court and ordered to be kept in remand until April 4 until investigations are completed. While the accused and his friends were playing Holi on the streets, the victim and her brother joined him. Hyderabad: In a heinous crime, a 20-year-old man sexually abused and killed a six-year-old girl by slitting her throat on Thursday afternoon. She was abducted by the accused in the afternoon and abused in a secluded area near the railway tracks, and then murdered. At the time of the abduction, the girls parents were away at work. First, the accused took the brother of the victim to a shop and bought him colours. In the same manner, he lured the victim to go with him to the secluded area. The accused Rajesh arrived in the city two months ago. According to the police, he had come to visit his brother-in-law, who lives next to the victims house, to celebrate Holi on Thursday. He was under the influence of alcohol when he committed the crime. While the accused and his friends were playing Holi on the streets, the victim and her brother joined him. First, he took the boy to a nearby shop and bought him colours to play with. In the same manner, he took the girl away from the scene and then abducted her to a nearby secluded area next to the railway tracks, where he abused her and then killed her. It looks like when the girl tried fighting the abuse, he subdued her and gashed her neck with an iron wire which was in his possession and continued the act. The girl succumbed to her injuries and died. Later in the day, when the victims father returned from work, he found only his son at home. So he enquired and searched for his daughter in the surrounding areas but in vain. Subsequently, he approached the cops and lodged a complaint. Balanagar division Deputy commissioner of police Ms P. V. Padmaja said, We registered a case of kidnapping and formed three teams to nab the culprit. We also put the dog squad into action. The bloodhound trail ended at the house right next to the minor girls residence. Following the inquiry, the cops zeroed in on the position of the killer and nabbed him at a house in the Krishnanagar colony in Bollaram within 12 hours of committing the offence. She further added that the killer Rajesh Kumar used to work at Nandini Tent house, Bollaram. The accused, hailing from Bihar, came to Hyderabad two months ago. When questioned, the killer confessed to the crime which he had committed while in an inebriated condition. The cops have recovered the incriminating evidence, i.e., the small iron wire that he used to kill the victim. The cops have registered the case under sections 363, 376-A, 376 AB, 302 IPC and Sec 5 r/w 6 of POCSO ACT 201. Rachakonda police said that in the Kushaiguda case, a housewife, 41, was a regular visitor at a temple located in AS Rao Nagar. Hyderabad: A 51-year-old priest at a temple in Kushaiguda was arrested for sending objectionable pictures and videos to a woman. Despite the warning, he failed to correct his behaviour. The SHE Team, which received a complaint from the victim, have arrested Ch Bhaskara Sharma. The She Teams also apprehended 33 others for misbehaving with women and girls. As many as 38 complaints have been received by the Rachakonda SHE Team over the last four weeks, of which FIRs were registered in 21 cases and 12 cases were booked. The persons apprehended include six minor boys, for eve-teasing and harassment of women and girls. Rachakonda police said that in the Kushaiguda case, a housewife, 41, was a regular visitor at a temple located in AS Rao Nagar. The priest at the temple, Ch Bhaskara Sharma, had taken the woman's number. A few days later, the woman received WhatsApp messages, which were objectionable in nature, from the priest. Despite her warnings, Sharma continued to send such messages. She then lodged a complaint with the SHE Team. A case was registered at the Kushaiguda police station under section 354 D of IPC and the priest was arrested and remanded to judicial custody. The She Teams also apprehended four juvenile boys who were found teasing women at a street in Kushaiguda and Vanasthalipuram. They were counseled before letting off, said the police. The SHE Teams also averted four child marriages at Vanasthalipur-am, Bhongir, Choutuppal, and Ibrahimpatnam. The use of bike taxis is illegal in the state and the department has earlier issued notice to Rapido, another bike taxi service. It is also not clear under which licence Rapido was operating. Bengaluru: The state transport department has cancelled cab aggregator Olas licence for six months for operating bike taxis under the same licence. The cab aggregator will have to submit its licence within three days from Friday (when it received the order). Hence booking an Ola from Saturday would be illegal. The use of bike taxis is illegal in the state and the department has earlier issued notice to Rapido, another bike taxi service. It is also not clear under which licence Rapido was operating. Transport department officials said they had recently issued show-cause notice to Ola for use of bike taxis, but it had failed to respond. Bike taxis in the city was also opposed by BMTC and other cab operators, as they contend that it was affecting their revenue. Ola, Taxiforsure and Uber Drivers and Owners Association President Tanveer Pasha told Deccan Chronicle, Ola was violating the states laws by running commercial and non-commercial bike taxis in the state. It cannot run any vehicle on its platform, as per the rules. But they did not bother to follow it. They ran bike taxi service using private own-use vehicles. The transport department order issued to Ola stated, According to Section 11 (1) The Karnataka On Demand Transportation Technology Aggregators Rules 2016, the Transport Department can decide to cancel the licence of the cab aggregator as there is a violation of rules. Pasha said, "People should now use Uber to book cabs. Ola is a law unto itself and they dont listen to anyone. We used to have frequent fights with Ola management. But now the government itself has acted. It is also a wake-up call for Uber to follow rules. If they too violate rules, the government should take action against Uber also. Though bike taxis are currently illegal in the state, the Transport Department is working on a policy with stakeholders to decide whether bike taxis can be allowed in Bengaluru city, if not the state. Currently only Goa and Haryana have allowed bike taxis. To obtain a bike taxi licence the vehicles need to be commercially insured and they should have yellow background number plates. They also need to follow certain safety regulations. We have also witnessed people travelling in goods carrier vehicles being killed in accidents, he said (Representational Image) Bengaluru: Goods vehicles carrying passengers or modified to ferry people will be seized by the transport and traffic police departments soon in the state. A senior officer in the transport department said that recently, the High Court directed the department to ensure that no goods or luggage carrier vehicles are used to carry people. We have also found that goods vehicles are being modified to carry people charging a certain fare. This has been on the rise and also become a business. It is against the rules as goods vehicles are manufactured to carry luggage and not people, and this poses a great danger to the people and their safety. He said, We have also witnessed people travelling in goods carrier vehicles being killed in accidents. It was brought to our notice that different types of mini-goods vehicles are being converted and used to pick up and drop schoolchildren. These are going unchecked and it is time we seize such vehicles before any accidents occur. He said that a meeting will be held with the traffic police department to discuss about cracking down on the illegal practice. A senior traffic police officer said, Every day, we see people travelling in goods vehicle. For example, construction labourers are found travelling with the moulding machine inside a tempo traveller which is illegal. The vehicle can be used to carry the machine and not people. We have already penalised several such vehicles. Now we will start seizing these vehicles. The officer said, We will carry out checks near all educational institutions from June to ensure that no converted goods vehicles are used to carry children. We will issue directions to educational institutions to ensure that parents do not encourage such a practice. An accidental release of LPG is likely to affect everything within a radius of three-and-a-half km surrounding the plants. Hyderabad: The danger of having massive LPG storage plants near cities and human habitations in Telangana state is being grossly underestimated, according to an environmental engineer. Thousands of tonnes of highly-inflammable liquid gas petroleum stored at Cherlapally, near Secunderabad, could cause unimaginable loss to life and property in case of an accidental release. Sagar Dhara, an environmental engineer who specialises in risk analysis, said a disaster could be waiting to happen unless the plants are moved to isolated areas. The industrial zone of Cherlapally, an area packed with industrial establishments and manufacturing units, has three massive LPG storage plants owned by Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). The companies have other plants in Telangana state, including one at Thimmapur in Mahbubnagar district and another at Jammikunta in Karimnagar district. The IOCs Rated Bottling Capacity at its Cherlapally plant is 180 TMTPA (thousand metric tonnes per annum), and a massive 50,000 cylinders are bottled here per day. Its plant in Thimmapur has a capacity of 120 tmpta and bottles 35,000 cylinders every day, a spokesperson from the company confirmed. BPCLs Cherlapally plant has a capacity of 170 tmt per annum, producing 40,000 cylinders per day, and HPCL has the capacity to produce 218 tmt per annum at its Cherlapally plant, according to a 2017 report. An accidental release of LPG is likely to affect everything within a radius of three-and-a-half km surrounding the plants, Mr Dhara said. For Cherlapally, this could mean affecting thousands of people, many schools, hospitals and places of worship, and reaching dangerously close to the Nuclear Fuel Complex in Moula Ali. The loss would be devastating, said Mr Dhara, and added, LPG accidents are a huge risk and happen every year in India. The danger is that an accidental leak could happen anywhere from any of the tanks at the tank farm or even from a tanker truck. Mr Dhara, who submitted a risk appraisal of IOCs proposed LPG tank farm at Puduvypin in Kochi to the villagers of Puduvypin, added, The boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion that happened in an LPG tank farm in a suburb of Mexico City in November 1984, killed about 800 people. Usually, LPG is shipped as a cryogenic substance in liquid form at very low temperatures. It is then loaded into pipelines and transported to storage tanks before being distributed through tanker trucks. Mr Dhara added, There are several risks involved in the entire process. For example, if the pipelines carrying petroleum products develop a leak, it could mean a massive fire or explosion. He added, An LPG spill along a tanker transport route also poses high risk to humans and structures due to three consequent events thermal radiation from a fireball or a pool fire, flying fragments and overpressure from the explosion, and downwind toxic effects of the fire by products. The only solution is to move them away from human habitation. Speaking about the safety measures in place, a spokesperson for IOCL said: All plants are constructed in line with Oil Industry Safety Directorate (OISD) standards and comply with various statutory authorities like Petroleum and Explosives Safety (PESO), Factories Department, Central Electricity Authority (CEA) etc. Extensive safety measures have been adopted which includes automatic sprinkler system, gas detection system, vapour extraction system, emergency shutdown system, remote operated valves etc. The Cherlapally plant is located in an industrial estate and Thimmapur is located at the far end of Hyderabad. With the campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections picking up, the spotlight of attention appears to be on the two opposing national narratives that are competing for public attention and endorsement. The BJPs Idea of India with its focus on nationalism, patriotism, security and leadership is being confronted by an alternative narrative that seeks to shift the attention to the fives years of BJP rule - an audit of the fulfilment of the promises made by the ruling party which helped it win a majority in 2014. It is clear that there will be no uniform response to the competing narratives across the country. The context of the politics of each state will be a critical factor in shaping the citizen response to the two narratives. This column, would like to focus attention on an equally important and linked factor which is likely to be the true flavour of this election season. The nature and politics of alliances which both the BJP and its opponents are aiming to stitch together in the run up to the elections will be critical in deciding the electoral trends this time around. After having virtually treated the NDA as a belated afterthought for the five years it has been in power, the BJP has realised that in order to return to power, it needs to get its coalition arithmetic right. Besides, minor adjustment with state based parties in a few states of the North East, there are four crucial state level alliances that the BJP has forged. Each of these alliances is governed by a different logic and political-electoral calculation. The BJP has, at least for this election, preferred to place on the back burner, the bitter exchanges over the last four years with its oldest ally, the Shiv Sena. Given that Maharashtra sends the second largest state contingent to the Lok Sabha, it was vital that the BJP made peace with its upset ally. The BJP clearly had to appease a recalcitrant ally to ensure that there was no vote split in this politically vital state. It would be interesting to see how well, the BJP and Shiv Sena collaborate at the ground level and ensure the transfer of votes to their partner. The mutual bickering is not really a thing of the past as after Manohar Parrikar's demise the Shiv Sena was quick to criticize the BJP for what it terms as the 'undue haste' in swearing in a new Chief Minister. It was interesting to see the BJP spokesperson JP Nadda, holding back from announcing the parties candidates from Bihar and instead saying that the list would be jointly announced by the NDA coalition leaders in Patna. The compulsions of coalition have forced the BJP to contest less seats this time than what it won in 2014. This clearly shows how critical it was for the BJP to keep the JDU and the LJP on board. A sacrifice of a few seats was worth the political costs for the BJP to ensure a good performance in 2019. Down South, a crucial NDA partner in 2014, the TDP had bid goodbye and turned into a bitter rival. The BJP stitched together an alliance with the AIADMK, PMK and MDMK in Tamil Nadu to challenge the formidable DMK-Congress alliance. The Tamil Nadu alliance is an interesting gamble for the BJP as many would argue that the only direction an AIADMK without Jayalalitha, can head seems to be downwords. This was an alliance which the BJP delayed till the last moment, as it was assessing the ground situation. With Rajnikanth refusing to bite the electoral bullet, the BJP was left with limited options. Given that the BJP had just one MP from Tamil Nadu, the logic of an electoral tie-up could well have been that there was a low baseline from where the alliance began! The BJP-Akali Dal alliance in Punjab is clearly an agreement of mutual convenience. The BJP is clearly a junior partner in the alliance and the Akali Dal does not appear to have recovered from the Assembly election drubbing. There clearly is not much of an expectation of any major electoral dividend for the alliance in Punjab. THE OPPOSITION Forging alliances also seem to be central focus of the parties opposed to the BJP. The SP-BSP alliance in UP, seems to have dramatically altered the structure of the political competition in UP. This state had been critical in 2014, in helping the BJP securing a majority. This time around too, the route to power at Delhi is via Lucknow. While the state is all set to witness a three cornered fight as the Congress is going it alone, the SP-BSP alliance poses a formidable challenge to the BJP to repeat it's 2014 performance. Central to the discussion of alliance politics is the stand and position of the Congress party. While it had managed to tie up with the RJD and its other allies in Bihar, with the National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir, the NCP in Maharashtra, the DMK in Tamil Nadu and the JD(S) in Karnataka it has been unable to break bread with the AAP in Delhi, Left parties in West Bengal and the TDP in Andhra Pradesh. The alliance in Karnataka and Maharashtra has faced several challenges. Like the BJP's alliances, the unity on the ground and vote transfer among the Congress and its allies will be closely watched. In its attempt to forge an anti-BJP alliance, the Congress finds itself in a bind. In it's negotiations with State based parties and other parties opposed to the BJP especially in Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh it is unable to strike a balance between building a united Opposition to the BJP and retaining its identity. At the end of the day, this election will be on the comparative success of the two alliances at the ground level. This election is not just a perception battle on the alternative Ideas of India but on the strength and unity within each of the alliances. (Sandeep Shastri is Pro Vice Chancellor, JAIN - a deemed to be university ) The Malaysian capital saw the Solidarity4Peace march unfold this morning during which the Kuala Lumpur Peace Declaration was read. For Minister for Religious Affairs, Terrorism is not born from any religion, no race was born with hatred. Kuala Lumpur (AsiaNews/Agencies) People from various religious and ethnic backgrounds, including Sikhs, Taoists, Christians, Hindus and Muslims, took to the streets of Malaysias capital Kuala Lumpur in a march to promote peace and express solidarity for the 50 victims of the terrorist attack on the mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. During the rally, organisers and government officials read out a five-point peace declaration. In it, they condemn all acts of discrimination, violence and killing in the name of religion or ethnicity; reject any act or culture based on hatred in the name of religion or ethnicity; voice support for all efforts to foster peace and promote harmony among people of all ethnicities and religions; defend Malaysias Federal Constitution and the countrys sovereignty against agents of racial and religious hatred.; and express solidarity with the citizens of the world to develop an environment of peace and prosperity based on the recognition of different ethnicities and religions. Participants in Saturday's rally, mostly clad in white T-shirts, met in front of a shopping mall in the heart of the city as early as 6.30 am, before marching towards Merdeka (Independence) Square about 1 kilometre away, carrying Malaysian flags and banners with peace messages. Members of the Malaysian government, including Islamic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa, took part in the event. "The world must be defended from any act of terror. The tragedy in Christchurch was a shocking incident when there are so many movements in this world fighting to promote peace," Mr Mujahid said. "The act of terror in New Zealand cannot be associated with any religion or any race in this world. Terrorism is not born from any religion; no race was born with hatred... Terrorism has no face. Therefore, our declaration today condemns any act of discrimination, violence and killing in the name of religion or ethnicity." Bhubaneswar: The All-India Congress Committee (AICC) released its second list of candidates for two Lok Sabha and 54 Assembly constituencies of Odisha, through an official notification late on Friday night. Samarendra Mishra, son of the Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly Narasingha Mishra, will contest from Bolangir Lok Sabha seat, while Saptagiri Ulka is in the fray from Koraput LS seat. However, the party is yet to announce its candidate for the Aska Lok Sabha seat, which will go to polls in the second phase. So far, names of eight candidates out of nine Lok Sabha seats, which will go to polls in the first and second phase on April 11 and April 18 respectively, have been announced by the Congress. Similarly, names of candidates for 54 Assembly segments in the state was also announced. Bismaya Mahapatra, who was given a ticket from Digapahandi Assembly constituency in the first list, has been replaced by Prafulla Panda in the second list. Besides, Ripunath Seth will contest elections against BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik from Bijepur, while Saroj Mahapatra is in the fray from Bhatli. Sitting Congress MLA Prafulla Majhi, who has won thrice from Talsara Assembly segment and is considered a traditional stronghold of the party, has once again been fielded from the constituency. Congress president Rahul Gandhi being garlanded by party leaders during a rally, at Chanchal in Malda, on Saturday. (Photo: AP) Thiruvananthapuram: Congress president Rahul Gandhi will in all probability contest from Wayanad in Kerala besides his family citadel of Amethi. The announcement came from AICC general secretary Oommen Chandy, confirmed by state unit chief Mullappally Ramachandran. T. Siddique, who had started campaigning in the high-range constituency, before an official nomination, said he was withdrawing for his supreme leader. The news electrified the Congress-led United Democratic Front in Kerala, going by reactions from the allies who feel he embodies the idea of secular India. Keralas ruling CPM, the principal rival to the Congress, isnt particularly happy. He will be a liability for the UDF as all Congress leaders will make a beeline to Wayanad, said its secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. Congress cadres went euphoric as television channels broke the news. UDF allies including the Indian Union Muslim League and Kerala Congress expressed confidence of sweeping all the 20 seats. Mr Chandy said in Pathanamthitta that KPCC had requested Mr Gandhi to contest from Wayanad, but he had not responded so far. There is a demand that he should contest from any of the southern Indian seats. We suggested Wayanad. He has not commented on the request so far. But we are expecting a positive response, he said. Bhopal: Ending weeklong speculation, Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath on Saturday declared that veteran party leader Digvijay Singh would contest from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, considered a BJP bastion, in the upcoming polls. Barely an hour after the announcement, saffron leader Sadhvi Pragyan who has recently been acquitted in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, declared that she was ready to fight against Mr Singh in Bhopal to settle her personal score with him. I am ready to take on Mr Singh, if BJP decides. I consider enemy of the country is my enemy. I consider Digvijay Singh as my enemy, she told reporters. Sadhvi was being treated for cancer in an ayurvedic hospital. Earlier, attending the meet-the-press programme, Mr Nath said, The Central Election Committee (CEC) of the party has decided that Digvijay Singh will contest from Bhopal. Mr Nath said, I had earlier asked Digvijay Singhji to choose one of the three difficult constituencies, Bhopal, Indore and Jabalpur, to contest from, instead of opting for Rajgarh seat. The CEC has decided to field him in Bhopal. Last week, the chief minister had literally thrown a challenge at Mr Singh asking him to choose the toughest seat to contest from if he desired to enter the fray in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Mr Singh later responded to the challenge saying that I am ready to contest wherever my leader Rahul Gandhiji wants me to. Mr Singh would contest polls after a gap of 16 years if he joined the fray in the upcoming LS elections from Bhopal. He had last contested elections in 2003 and had taken the vow not to contest polls in Madhya Pradesh for ten years after the Congress government led by him was dislodged in 2003 assembly elections. He was said to be keen to contest from Rajgarh LS seat in the forthcoming polls. Hyderabad: The Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM), a sister organisation of the RSS, has launched a signature campaign in the city demanding that Articles 370 and 35a of the Constitution be abrogated. MRM leaders contended that the Articles were harmful to the country and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. They should be abrogated since they do not support the constitutional directives of unity and equality. MRM state convener M.S. Sattar said that a White Paper had been issued after detailed discussions across the country demanding scrapping of both Articles. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir had been deprived of basic rights of development like education, industrial development, health, communication and infrastructure development. He said such provisions destroyed the image of the Muslim community because the general public was under the impression that Kashmiri people were getting undue advantages with these Articles. In reality, there was nothing in the hands of the Kashmiris due to such provisions. Mr Sattar said no one from outside the state could purchase a piece of land there and could not establish industries, education institutions and other allied platforms of development. We will send more than 10,000 signatures to our headquarters from Hyderabad, he said. This initiative has attracted Opposition from a section of the people in the Old City. Many people refused to endorse such activities and said it created needless debates and confusion among the common people. We are in no way concerned with these articles as it deals with the Jammu & Kashmir. Mr Mohammed Farooq, secretary, Gouse Khamooshi Trust, said the RSS was dividing the Muslim community by raising such issues. It formed the MRM to achieve its designs. In cities like Hyderabad there was no space for such activities. New Delhi: In a fresh offensive against the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah on Saturday cited Sam Pitrodas comments to accuse the Congress of insulting martyrdom of soldiers killed in the Pulwama terror attack and asserted that only his party can ensure the countrys security. A day after Congress leader Mr Pitroda questioned the governments aggressive action against Pakistan, Mr Shah asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to apologise to people and armed forces for these comments. The BJP chief said Mr Pitrodas statement conveyed that the Pulwama terror attack was a routine incident carried out by a few people for which Pakistan cannot be blamed, as the BJP chief asked Rahul Gan-dhi to make his partys stand clear on the issue. Does the Congress believe that terror incidents in the country have nothing to do with the Pakistan government or Pakistan Army? Mr Shah asked, seeking Mr Gandhis response. The BJP president then drew a comparison between the UPA dispensations no strong action against terrorism and the Modi governments zero tolerance against it to assert that only the saffron party is capable of securing India. New Delhi: Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending best wishes to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the countrys National Day, the Congress on Saturday said the Prime Minister should stop writing love letters to Pakistan. Official sources had said on Friday that Mr Modi sent a letter to Mr Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala alleged that the PMs muscular politics was aimed at only the people and the media and asked him to stop writing love letters to Pakistan. Mr 56 of the Sari-Shawl-Impromptu Pak visit for Birthday-ISI invite fame diplomacy was feeling very shy yesterday. Guess? Chowkidar hid the fact that he had wished Pakistan Prime Minister on Pakistan National Day without a word on Pak terrorism. Muscular politics soap opera for people and media only, Mr Surjewala said on Twitter. Modi ji, Stop writing this Love Letter to Pakistan, he added. The Congress chief spokesperson also posted a video of Mr Modis interview to a channel where the former Gujarat chief minister during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) time is saying Pakistan needs to be talked to in the language it understands and that writing love letters to it should be stopped. He was referring to then Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs letter to then Pakistan President. India on Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission to mark Pakistans National Day as several separatists leaders from Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have been invited to the event. Visakhapatnam: Former Union minister Vyricherla Kishore Chandra Deo, who recently joined the Telugu Desam from the Congress, is pitted against his daughter Shruthi Vyricherla who is representing the Congress in the April 11 elections from the Araku Lok Sabha constituency. Given this unique situation, both father and daughter, who stay in the same house, do not wish each other the best in their political ventures. Both of them said that they do not discuss politics in the house. When we both are in separate political parties there is no point in discussing politics, Mr Kishore Chandra Deo said. Contesting against him was his daughters independent decision and he had no right to stop her, he said. I dont want to be a hypocrite, I cant wish her all the best when I am contesting the elections to win, he added. Ms Shruthi Vyricherla said she would definitely criticise her father on policy issues. QApart from being the daughter of Kishore Chandra Deo, who is Shruthi Vyricherla? Advocate in the Supreme Court since 1997. A woman who joined the Congress in 1998, a grassroots campaigner as well as a pro bono politico-legal adviser, primarily via advising and supporting my father. I am an independent legal consultant and a specialist in environmental and tribal rights law and policy. Q What comprises the body of your political work? I have worked diligently for over two decades and played a role in building a brand of politics that has been workable for the poorest of the poor, and for marginalised sections of society on the planet, while taking Indias governance forward in appropriate ways in the global context, including in connection with a slew of national-level legislation, as well as international treaties and conventions. I have also been involved in political campaigning and coalition building. QHow did your father react to your decision to contest against him? We never discuss politics at home. He knew that Im contesting in the election. We usually have a family talk at home and speak to each other on various issues every day. But, to date, we havent spoken about contesting against each other. Contesting in the election is my independent decision. QWhy against your father? I have been with the Congress all these years and I want to contest in the elections to bring gender justice and to work for forest rights. I want to serve the people and I have decided to contest in the elections. But it was not intentional to contest against my father. I can say both my father and I are anti-corruption and will never entertain corruption. QHaving been a political adviser to your father, do you think it will help you to understand your father's strategies? Are you going to criticise him? Though I know about my fathers strategies very well, I dont need to think of them as Im confident of winning the Araku Lok Sabha seat. The people there have been in touch with me for many years; they know me well. Im very strong in the constituency. Im not going to criticise anyone personally. But, I will criticise him along with representatives of other parties when we deal with policy issues. QYou served as Union minister and your daughter is contesting against you. How do you feel about it? Everyone has the right to contest in the election. I will never stop anyone from contesting the elections, even if it is my daughter. Shruthi is not a child and she is completely independent. I know that she is capable of taking her own decision. QWas there any discussion between you two regarding this? Have you wished your daughter all the best? We never have political conversations at home. I dont want to be a hypocrite. Im contesting to win the election not to lose. So, I havent wished her all the best. QThere are several allegations against TD and it is now being described as a U-turn party with regard to special category status? We cannot compare this election with 2014. With the bifurcation of the state, people were confused. There will be lots of qualitative differences in the present election when compared to the previous one. This time the people have clarity, and are ready to vote for me and for the TD. QAraku was won by the YSRC in 2014 and YSRC leaders are saying its their stronghold. What do you say? The Telugu Desam is not looking back into the past but is going forward into the future. I was a member of the UPA 2 government. Then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had directed the Planning Commission to start the process of special category status for the state. Though the BJP said that they will provide a special package, they failed to do it. So, the people will not choose a party that supports BJP in the Centre. QIf the people vote for the Telugu Desam again, will it work with a commitment for special category status? The Dharma Porata Deeksha that was held in Delhi shows the commitment of Telugu Desam for special category status. Most of the regional parties have extended their support to Andhra Pradesh. We are 100 per cent sure that there will be a non BJP government after the elections. Most probably a coalition government will be formed with the regional parties. Thus, we can get complete support to achieve Special Category Status. We are informing the same to the public during the campaigning. hief Minister K Palaniswami on Saturday lashed out at arch-rival DMK, dubbing it a 'chameleon' for shifting its stand for power while DMK chief M K Stalin trained his guns on the AIADMK, saying it has forgotten late J Jayalalithaa, who opposed Prime Minister Modi. (Photo: File) Vellore/Dharmapuri: Chief Minister K Palaniswami on Saturday lashed out at arch-rival DMK, dubbing it a "chameleon" for shifting its stand for power while DMK chief M K Stalin trained his guns on the AIADMK, saying it has forgotten late J Jayalalithaa, who opposed Prime Minister Modi. Palaniswami, spearheading the ruling party's election campaign at Vellore, said DMK was akin to a chameleon which changed its colours quite too often. "DMK has shifted its stand many a times for the sake of power and the word chameleon applies only to it and no other party. The alliance led by it is an opportunistic alliance," he said, adding that the AIADMK was a combine wedded to people's welfare. Though the Centre discontinued subsidy for the Haj pilgrimage (following a Supreme Court directive for a gradual withdrawal of subsidy), the AIADMK government continued it providing Rs six crore for it, he said in the city, which has several pockets of Muslims. "Amma's government had always been a fortress in protecting the rights of the minorities," he said. Similarly, when a law on banning triple talaq was introduced in the Rajya Sabha, the AIADMK opposed it and subsequently it was not adopted, he said. Though the Stalin-led party had been part of several regimes at the Centre, including the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance, it did not bring projects beneficial to Tamil Nadu, he claimed. "Congress leader P Chidambaram had been the Finance Minister and still did not allocate necessary funds for the growth of Tamil Nadu," he alleged. "It is a party bereft of any principles. DMK is a family party," he said, adding that the elections would end such family politics. Outlining his government's welfare initiatives, Palaniswami said the recent Global Investors Meet attracted investments over Rs three lakh crore. "Jobs for 10.50 lakh youth have been created through such new investments, which will lead to setting up of new industries," he said. DMK President Stalin, addressing a poll rally at Harur in Dharmapuri district, mocked Palaniswami for invoking the legacies of late leaders M G Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa. "Palaniswami is talking about MGR and Jayalalithaa. What locus standi does he have to talk about them? he asked. When Modi was named as BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate in 2014, Jayalalithaa had said that "this lady is better than Modi" and that was the stand she took to oppose Narendra Modi, he said. "However, today you have pledged the AIADMK and the government with the BJP," he alleged. AIADMK cannot be redeemed from the "clutches of the BJP," he said. The DMK leader also wanted to know how the AIADMK joined hands with the PMK, which had brought out a booklet criticising Jayalalithaa. "I would like to know how Palaniswami will follow the path of Jayalalithaa,?" he asked. Hitting out at the Chief Minister for accusing DMK of not bringing beneficial projects to Tamil Nadu, despite being part of the governments at the Centre, he said the roads and bridges under the golden quadrilateral highway project (for the State) became a reality because of his party. The golden quadrilateral highway project was an initiative of the NDA regime when late Atal Bihari Vajpayee was Prime Minister and DMK was a partner in the government. Stalin also listed the Chennai Metro Rail and the Rs 1,555 crore Hogenakkal Combined Drinking Water project for Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts. Despite being friendly with the BJP government at the Centre even before forging an alliance with the saffron party, the AIADMK cannot say that it was successful in bringing projects for Tamil Nadu, he claimed The Sena said, "Advani was one of the founding members of the BJP, who along with former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee steered the rath of the party ahead. (Photo: PTI) Mumbai: The Shiv Sena Saturday said L K Advani would remain the "tallest leader" of the BJP irrespective of his poll presence, two days after the party nominated its chief Amit Shah from Gandhinagar, a seat represented by the BJP patriarch. In an editorial in the party mouthpiece "Saamana", the Sena said Shah contesting in place of Advani is politically translated as the 'Bhishmacharya' of Indian politics being "forced" to retire. "Lal Krishna Advani is known as the 'Bhishmacharya' of Indian politics, but his name does not feature in the list of BJP's candidates for Lok Sabha polls, which is not surprising," the edit said. The Sena said the development underlined that the BJP's Advani era has come to an end. "Advani has been elected from Gujarat's Gandhinagar constituency six times. Now, Amit Shah will be contesting from that seat. This simply means Advani has been forced to retire," the editorial said. Marking a generational shift in the BJP, the party recently announced candidature of Shah, who will be contesting his debut parliamentary election, from Gandhinagar. Advani, 91, had served as Union home minister and deputy prime minister. He won the Gandhinagar seat six times. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the BJP to a massive victory in 2014 and Shah was made the party president, Advani was made a member of Margdarshak Mandal (group of mentors). The Sena said, "Advani was one of the founding members of the BJP, who along with former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee steered the rath of the party ahead. "But today, Modi and Shah have taken the place of them (Vajpayee and Advani). An environment has already been created in the party to ensure that seniors do not get any responsibility this time," it stated. The Sena further said Advani has played a "long innings" in politics and would remain the "tallest leader" of the BJP. The Sena is contesting the next month's Lok Sabha elections in alliance with the BJP. The Sena said it didn't believe that a leader retains his top position only if he continues to be in active politics. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party also attacked the Congress which has said the Gandhinagar seat has been snatched from Advani. "The party (Congress) should not talk about insult to elders. The then prime minister P V Narasimha Rao, who had steered the Congress governments in difficult times, was insulted by the party even after his death," it said. The Sena also referred to the 2013 incident when Rahul Gandhi tore an ordinance (on protecting convicted lawmakers) in the presence of the then prime minister Manmohan Singh. "What happened with Sitaram Kesari (former Congress president who was succeeded by Sonia Gandhi)?....Therefore it does not suit the Congress to talk about respecting elders," the Sena said. Praising Advani, the Sena said he was responsible for expanding the BJP's footprint across the country. "Every shining sun has to set. The BJP could reach the top because of Advani's 'Rath yatra' in Ayodhya in 1990s. The BJP is reaping (dividends) because of Advani's toil," the Sena said. Bengaluru: Mandya district Congress leader and KPCC member, Sachidananda, was expelled from the party for sharing the dais with Mrs Sumalatha Ambareesh at a rally in Mandya earlier this week and for accompanying her to various Assembly constituencies despite a diktat issued by top leaders of Congress. Sources in Congress said such disciplinary action against Mr Sachidananda would serve as a warning for scores of party workers who accompanied her in a procession in Mandya ahead of submission of her nomination papers on Wednesday. Soon, party leaders acted against Mr Sachidanana as a furious Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy complained to them that such support of Congress workers would impact the prospects of his son and JD (S) candidate Nikhil Kumaraswamy. He also discussed the issue with energy minister D K Shivakumar with the latter chairing a meeting with Mandya Congress leaders to warn them against expressing their support for Mrs Sumalatha Ambareesh. Trumps decision sowed confusion in the media, which thought he referred to those imposed two days ago. White House spokesman says the US president likes Chairman Kim". The North Korean leader will soon decide whether to continue the talks and maintain the moratorium on nuclear and missile tests. Washington (AsiaNews/Agencies) US President Donald Trump ordered a stop to new sanctions against North Korea, signalling his intention to continue denuclearisation talks with its ruler. Trump was initially thought to be referring to sanctions the US Department of the Treasury imposed on two Chinese shipping companies accused of helping the North evade sanctions. Citing government sources, US media later clarified that Trump was referring to future sanctions, planned for the next few days. The announcement comes at a time when the negotiations to dismantle North Koreas nuclear weapons programme are at a standstill after the failure of the Hanoi summit between US President Donald J. Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters that "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary." During the second Kim-Trump summit, the US did not accept what North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho called "realistic proposals", such as the complete decommissioning of the Yongbyon Nuclear Scientific Research Centre, as well as an end to nuclear bomb and long-range missile testing. In exchange, North Korea wanted the US to removes partial sanctions, the articles of sanctions that hamper the economy and the livelihood of our people, Ri said. Last week, North Korean Deputy Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui threatened to abandon the negotiations, saying that North Korea had no intention to give in to Washington's "gangster-like" demands. She also said Kim would decide soon whether to pursue talks and maintain his moratorium on nuclear and missile tests. Hours after the sanctions were announced Thursday, North Korea pulled its officials from an inter-Korean liaison office in its border city of Kaesong. The latter had opened last year. BJP chief Amit Shah on Saturday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on Sam Pitroda's comments questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack. (Photo: Twitter/ ANI) New Delhi: BJP chief Amit Shah on Saturday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on Sam Pitroda's comments questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack, saying the opposition party has "insulted" martyrdom of soldiers and put a question mark on the nation's security. Launching a fresh offensive against the Congress, Shah said the opposition party is known for its "vote bank" and "appeasement" politics during elections, but Gandhi should answer whether it is above national interest and if such politics can be done over the grief of families of soldiers killed. Shah also asked Gandhi to apologise to the country, to the families of those killed in the Pulwama terror attack and armed forces for Pitroda's remarks, saying for the Congress to merely distance itself from his comments will not do. Speaking to media, Shah said Congress leader Pitroda's remarks conveyed that the Pulwama terror attack was a "routine" incident carried out by a few people for which Pakistan cannot be blamed. Pitroda, he added, also questioned surgical strikes and air strikes launched by the Indian armed forces. "Does the Congress believe that terror incidents that happen in the country have nothing to do with the Pakistan government or Pakistan army?" Shah asked, seeking Gandhi's response. The BJP chief said the Congress has a habit of playing down such comments of its leaders as their individual opinions, but it never takes any action against them while, many of whom are close to Gandhi, he added. Pitroda, Indian Overseas Congress chief, had told media that one cannot "jump on entire nation" (Pakistan) just because some people from there "came here and attacked". In an apparent reference to the Pulwama terror attack, the Congress leader had said attacks happen all the time and then referred to the Mumbai terror strikes in 2008 when the Congress-led UPA was in power, saying the then government could have sent its planes but that is "not the right approach". Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday cited Pitroda's comments to launch an all-out attack against the Congress on the issues of terrorism and national security. CHENNAI: The Congress has announced candidates for eight out of nine Lok Sabha constituencies in Tamil Nadu allotted to it in the seat-sharing pact with the DMK for the April 18 election. But he obvious miss on the list is its candidate for Sivagangai constituency, the stronghold of former union minister P Chidambaram. His son Karti had unsuccessfully contested from Sivagangai in the 2014 election. AIADMKs P. R. Senthilnathan won the seat in 2014 when his party swept the polls. Chidambaram had won from this constituency seven times. The ruling AIADMK has allotted this seat to the BJP, which has fielded its national secretary H. Raja. This constituency will see a straight contest between the BJP and the Congress which is part of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance. The Congress has fielded veterans for the other seats. The party has nominated its sitting legislator H. Vasanthakumar, recently appointed as one of the working presidents of the Tamil Nadu Congress, to Kanyakumari constituency to lock horns with Union minister of state for finance and shipping Pon Radhakrishnan from the BJP. Former TNCC chief EVKS Elangovan will fight from Theni, and he will take on Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvams son P. Ravindranath from the AIADMK and Thangatamilselvan from Dhinakarans AMMK. Announcing its first list of candidates, the party said former TNCC chief Su. Thirunavukkarasar will contest from Tiruchi. He was recently dropped from the position and replaced with K. S. Alagiri. The other candidates are: former Namakkal legislator K. Jayakumar will contest from Tiruvallur, A Chellakumar: Krishnagiri, Manickam Tagore Virudhunagar, TNCC working president Dr Vishnuprasad Arani and writer-politician Jothimani, making a debut, will contest against AIADMK leader and Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M. Thambidurai in Karur. Party senior V. Vaithilingam will represent the lone Puducherry seat. Former MLA A. Chellakumar is likely to face stiff competition from AIADMK veteran K. P. Munusamy. The Congress has been allotted a total of 10 Lok Sabha seats - nine in Tamil Nadu and the lone Puducherry seat, in the seat-sharing pact with the DMK. Hyderabad: A TPCC delegation headed by Opposition leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka demanded that Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan recommend to the Centre and the President to impose Presidents rule on the state by invoking Article 356 of the Constitution. In a memorandum submitted to the Governor, the TPCC alleged that even after the model code of conduct came into force for the Lok Sabha elections, Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao was encouraging defections and his camp office had become the venue for the unconstitutional and immoral and illegal defections. Such an immoral person cannot be continued as Chief Minister, the memorandum said and demanded that the nine Congress who have defected by disqualified. The delegation comprising former Union ministers Veerappa Moily and S. Jaipal Reddy, former state ministers K. Jana Reddy, J. Geetha Reddy, Shabbir Ali and others called on the Governor at Raj Bhavan on Saturday to submit the memorandum. The TPCC leaders told the Governor that the defected MLAs were invited by Mr Rao to join the ruling party. The defectors accordingly gave statements that they were prepared to strengthen the TRS which amounted to voluntarily giving up to the membership of the political party from which they had got elected. The delegation said the action of Mr Rao not only violates Schedule III of the Constitution but also encouraged defection in derogation of Schedule X. They said that in substance if Mr Rao encourages defection in the official residence of Chief Minister, the Assembly Speaker who is a political member of the TRS can never decide any disqualification petition filed before him. Therefore the Speaker is deemed to be a member of the TRS who has to decide on the disqualifications. Thereby both the CM as well as the Speaker were violating the Constitution. TPCC leaders said that Article 154 of the Constitution mandated that executive power of the state shall be vested in the Governor and shall be exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinates to him but in accordance with the Constitution, They said, A constitutional authority like Governor who not only owes a duty but also responsibility to the Constitution has to refer this application forthwith without adopting any dilatory tactics to favour the ruling party to the President of India and union ministry to impose President;s rule by invoking Article 356 of the Constitution. CHENNAI: Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami has accused the DMK chief M K Stalin and the DMK of trying to sabotage and block the government welfare programmes to the poor. Contending that the DMK resorted to all sorts of tactics, especially approaching the court to scuttle the implementation of the welfare schemes, Mr. Palaniswami said unable to digest the popularity of the government Stalin's DMK went to the court to stop the implementation of the Pongal gift. Now his DMK had approached the Election Commission to stay the implementation of the Rs. 2,000 cash dole to the BPL families. Will Stalin and his DMK, which is preventing the poor from getting the benefits, ever do good for the people? he asked while campaigning for Puthiya Needhi Katchi (PNK) candidate A. C. Shanmugam, an ally of the AIADMK, in Vellore district on Saturday. He said his government would implement the Rs. 2,000 one-time cash dole scheme after the election. Although the DMK had been part of several regimes at the Centre, including the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance, it did not bring any projects for the benefit of Tamil Nadu. Despite the Congress leader P Chidambaram who had been the Union Finance Minister, haling from the State, Tamil Nadu did not see any growth, the CM alleged. It is a party bereft of any principles. DMK is a family party, he said and added that the elections would end such family politics. Mr. Palaniswami also alleged that the DMK was akin to a chameleon which changed its colours quite often. DMK has shifted its stand many a times for the sake of power and the word chameleon applies only to it and no other party. The alliance led by it is an opportunistic alliance, he said. On the other hand, the AIADMK alliance was committed to peoples welfare. Ammas government had always been a fortress in protecting the rights of the minorities, he added. Mr. Palaniswami also assured that his government would take steps to extend the 100 days employment guarantee scheme to 200 days. Hyderabad: TRS working president K.T. Rama Rao will concentrate on three important and high-visibility Lok Sabha constituencies for the April 11 elections Malkajgiri, Secunderabad and Chevella. All three are located in the capital or on the outskirts. In 2014, the Telugu Desam had won the Malkajgiri LS seat and the BJP, Secunderabad. The TRS won in Chevella but MP Konda Vishweshwar Reddy recently defected and is contesting on a Congress ticket. The TRS has fielded fresh candidates for these seats to take on senior Opposition leaders and will require a lot of support from Mr Rama Rao. Instead of holding public meetings, Mr Rama Rao wants to conduct road shows which are more effective. He may start the road shows from March 30. n Page 2: KCR to start campaign from March 29 Thiruvananthapuram: Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday sought to know from Congress what message the party wants to send across the country by fielding Rahul Gandhi from Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency. Reacting to reports on Congress move, the chief minister said the main political force in Kerala is LDF. Rahul is not coming to the state to fight the BJP but the Left parties. Is this stand in consonance with the current national political environment? This is for the Congress to introspect. The chief minister said the electoral battle would go its way. Just because Rahul Gandhi is coming here and contesting would not make any difference. But what message are you trying to give to the people of the country. The biggest leader of the Congress coming to Kerala and taking on the Left. Its not the BJP but the Left which has to be destroyed, this is the message that this contest will give to the country. Is this right? Let them introspect, he said. The chief minister said that as far as the electoral battle was considered, the candidate was immaterial. We will put up a strong fight, he said. Pinarayi said the SP and BSP had left Rai Bareli and Amethi for the Congress without any electoral understanding. This showed the magnanimity and importance of the SP and BSP. Meanwhile, CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran rejected the demand made by UDF to withdraw LDF candidate P. P. Suneer from the contest. CPM state secretary Kodyeri Balakrishnan said the move to bring Rahul Gandhi was a major set back for former chief minister Oommen Chandy. Hyderabad: Union minister Piyush Goyal said the BJP-led Centre would reply to the terrorists in their own language and will not tolerate any attack on the nation. Mr Goyal was participating a Chowkidar programme conducted by the Telangana BJP on Saturday and said that in the five years after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took over, economic growth had increased tremendously. Mr Goyal said only a strong Prime Minister could take harsh decisions for the benefit of the country. He said Mr Modi wanted to make the country a superpower and people should stand by him. The BJP will be the chowkidar in Telangana state, he said. Telangana BJP president K. Laxman demanded that Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao spell out his stand on the Ram mandir at Ayodhya. He alleged that Mr Rao was distracting the attention of the people by bringing in the Hindutva issue. Whenever an election is around the corner, political parties witness a rush of new entrants as well as defections. The Bharatiya Janata Party, which has attracted a fair number of turncoats from other parties in this election, has a special script for those who are crossing over from the Congress. In the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, disgruntled Congress members who joined the BJP would invariably blame their departure on party president Rahul Gandhi's poor leadership; that he was immature and non-serious and was inaccessible to workers. From Jayanti Natarajan to Hemanta Biswa Sarma all read from the same script. This time, however, the BJP has a new formulation for the Congress entrants. Since the saffron party is currently riding high on a nationalist agenda post-Pulwama terror attack and the Balakot airstrike, those coming from the Congress have to necessarily declare that they were leaving because they did not agree with the Congress response to India's retaliatory strike against Pakistan and that the Opposition party was undermining the armed forces by raising doubts about its operation. The BJP strategy in the last election was to demolish Rahul Gandhi and project him as a "Pappu". In the coming electoral contest, the saffron party's effort is to dub the Congress as being "anti-national". This explains the BJP's changed script. When finance minister Arun Jaitley was forced to take time off from work for medical reasons, there was constant talk in the capital's political circles that he had lost his clout in the Modi government and was being kept at arm's length by both the Prime Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah. But, as it turned out, this was nothing but idle chatter. Mr Jaitley was given back the finance ministry as soon as his doctors allowed him to resume work has also managed to get plum postings for bureaucrats who worked with him. For instance, the newly-appointed Election Commission member, Sushil Chandra, recently retired as the chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes, which is under Mr Jaitley. Similarly, Vanaja Sarna and Mahender Singh, who retired as chairman and member of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, respectively, were appointed information commissioner and non-judicial member of the newly set-up Lokpal authority. Both officers worked closely with Mr Jaitley for the past 18 months in the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax. Former law secretary Suresh Chandra, who had an old association with Mr Jaitley when he was a minister in the Vajpayee government, was appointed Central Information Commissioner. Meanwhile, Mr Jaitley is playing a key role in the preparations for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls and is also busy unsettling the Opposition through his regular blogs. While the Congress is having a tough time in its seat-sharing negotiations with its allies, the Bharatiya Janata Party has managed to pacify its sulking partners, including the Asom Gana Parishad and the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha. The GJM was upset with the Modi government for not acting on its demand for a separate state of Gorkhaland and, at one stage its protesting supporters had even clashed with BJP workers during the 2017 shutdown in the Valley. Angry with Darjeeling MP BJPs S.S. Ahluwalia for not being in regular touch with his constituency over his five-year term, the GJM was keen that its chief, Bimal Gurung, should contest this time. But not only has the GJM been persuaded to continue its partnership with the saffron party, but it has also agreed to back a BJP candidate in Darjeeling once again. Among the various names being mentioned is Uttarakhand tourism minister Satpal Maharaj who is not known to be on the best of terms with his chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat. It would suit Mr Rawat if Maharaj is moved out of the state. Having suffered a back injury, Chief Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala is moving around with great difficulty these days and was assisted by two helpers when he attended the meeting of the Haryana coordination committee last week. But, according to the buzz in Congress circles, Mr Surjewala is essentially making grounds for not contesting the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls in case he is asked by the leadership to take the electoral plunge. A sitting MLA from Haryana's Kaithal assembly constituency, Mr Surjewala would prefer to focus on the state elections as that puts him in the reckoning for the chief minister's post in the future. But Congress insiders said Mr Surjewala should remember that Rohtak MP Deepender Hooda, was also rendered immobile with a back injury during the 2014 general election. His campaign was run by his father, former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, while Hooda junior reached out to the electorate from his sickbed through video and audio messages. It's a different matter that Deepender Hooda was back on his feet as soon as he won his seat. Speaking recently at the Kautilya International Foundation in New Delhi, I said that Chanakya should be mandatory reading for all diplomats. In saying this I was not only paying tribute to the author of the worlds first substantive treatise on statecraft, the Arthashastra, written sometime around 150 CE, a millennium and a half before Machiavelli wrote The Prince in the 16th century CE. I believe that the Arthashastra is essential reading because, even if things have changed greatly by now, the treatise contains essential lessons about the conduct of diplomacy and war that are surprisingly relevant today. The first thing Chanakya stresses on is clarity of objective. That clarity can only be arrived at by unemotional appraisal and a rigorous application of mind. If we conflate this advice with the present, what it means for India is a clear understanding that we face two not one endemically hostile states on our northern border Pakistan and China. Our objective must be to deal with them in a manner where our national interests are served and we can adequately protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity. The recent veto by China on the UNs banning of Masood Azhar, and our reaction to it, presents a good example of what is realistic appraisal. Pakistan and China are all-weather friends, and will unhesitatingly collude with each other against us. We should, therefore, have expected that China will not forsake Pakistan. Once this was clear, our diplomatic reaction should have been threefold. One, we should have dispensed with expending so much energy in persuading China to change its decision. Two, we should have devalued the dividends of a ban by the UN, and stressed that India is prepared to fight its battles alone in the goal to eradicate international terrorism. After all, Lashkar-e-Tayyaba chief Hafiz Saeed, has been designated an international terrorist by the UN, but roams around free in Pakistan pursuing his terrorist activities. And, third, instead of lamely expressing disappointment when China did use its veto, issued a bold statement condemning China for being an accessory to global terrorism. Chanakya stated that once the objective is clearly defined, it can be pursued by several means. These means are essentially four: sama, dama, danda, bheda reconciliation, inducement, deterrent action and subversion. There is also a lesser known fifth instrument asana or the strategic art of deliberately sitting on the fence. Each tactic has a definite use. All instruments can be used collectively or individually or in combination. There is never a situation of either-or. Each situation merits a careful application of the instrument(s) required. I sometimes feel that Pakistan and China have mastered Chanakya better than we have. Pakistan uses a well-tried policy of aggression (danda) followed by appeasement (sama). This was demonstrated clearly in the Pulwama attack, and the events that followed it. First, Pakistan used the terrorist organisation, Jaish, to inflict unacceptable casualties on a CRPF convoy through a suicide bomber. Immediately thereafter, PM Imran Khan issued a conciliatory statement inviting India for talks. Pakistan is adept also in the policy of subversion (bheda). The ISI has successfully recruited local Indians to further its proxy terrorist war against India. Its covert infrastructure within India is widespread and it can activate sleeper cells at will within our borders. China, too, is a past master in Chanakyan politics. It engages with India (sama), but never loses sight of its principal goal of containing India (danda). Only such a policy can explain the major Chinese military incursion in Chumar in Ladakh even as President Xi Jin Ping was on a state visit to India in September 2014. Following Pulwama, our precision airstrike against Jaish terrorist bases in Balakot is a good example of the correct use of Chanakyan principles. It must be remembered that Chanakya privileged peace over war. War, he said, must be the last option, when no other means allow coexistence with dignity. In response to the magnitude of the Pulwama attack, and the ceaseless use by Pakistan of terrorism against us, restraint at any cost was not commensurate with national dignity. The airstrike on Balakot was clearly the need of the hour. But, since our aim was not war, it was good that the air strike was calibrated to be only against terrorist bases, avoiding military installations or inflicting civilian casualties. Chanakyan politics is clear in its goal, but strategically supple. I am, therefore, surprised when I hear statements from people that India must never agree to talks with Pakistan. Any one cognisant with Chanakyas thinking will know that talks are a means to an end, and not an end in themselves. Pakistan is a neighbour. We cannot say that we will never talk to it. What we need to understand is that talks must take place at an agenda and time of our choosing, as part of our strategic matrix, and without nullifying other instruments at our disposal to deal with Pakistan. There is much else, too, to learn from Chanakya. He stresses on the importance of a clear line of command and control. National interest, he says, is best pursued by the deft use of diplomacy, defence preparedness, and intelligence gathering. All three are important, and no one can be a substitute for the other. Success in war and diplomacy is dependent on inner strength, which he defines as an adequate treasury, a harmonious countryside, and a strong army. He focuses, too, on the art of making and cultivating allies, and negotiating treaties. A key factor is a deep study of the workings of the enemy state. (In this context, it is a pity that the Policy Planning Division in our foreign office is more or less defunct). Good counsel (mantra) is pivotal, and the King (in current times the government) should make institutional arrangements to receive it. War, when necessary, can be of four types: war by counsel (mantra yuddha), open war (prakash yuddha), psychological war (kuta yuddha), and clandestine war (guda yuddha). We may have taken decisive action in attacking Balakot, but often our strategic responses are reactive rather than pro-active, ad hoc, lacking in anticipation, and waffling. This is unfortunate for a nation that produced some two millennium ago a genius in statecraft like Chanakya. Tamil Nadu's major Dravidian parties were among the first in India to release their manifestoes ahead of the general election starting April 11. The similarities on major issues in them were unsurprising, but then Tamil Nadu's concerns are somewhat unique even if the parties consider themselves as sworn enemies, although they grew from the same roots of the anti-Hindi agitation and anti-Congressism. Both parties want NEET, the common medical entrance exam, to not apply to the state, seek abolition of national highway tolls, implementation of a private sector quota too and moving education from the Concurrent to the State List. Both parties want river inter-linking as a solution to an eternally water-starved region with no major rivers originating in the state. The AIADMK has put forth a catchy idea in a Basic Income of Rs 1,500 per month to a targeted population as a way to dehumanise poverty, and to be directly transferred to beneficiaries, while the DMK wants to go back to an administered price regime on petroleum products. Where they vary is in concern for ecological issues, with the DMK wants to save agriculture from exploitative industries, securing farmlands from big development projects and declaring the Cauvery Delta a special agricultural region. But there's a contradiction in the party's promotion of the revival of the unworkable and needless Sethusamudram project. In opposing development in the form of expressways, the DMK is taking a populist stand considering the ferocity of agitations. The point is that there is always a huge gap between the well-meaning thrust of manifestos and governance decisions that pay little heed to electoral promises. The word chowkidar is so deliciously old-fashioned. At the moment, India is experiencing a seminal chowkidar moment. We are obsessing over that word. In fact, someone really smart (or dumb depends on your perspective) decided to turn the Rahul Gandhi taunt (Chowkidar chor hai) around and convert it into a neat strategy for Narendra Modi and friends. Overnight, all BJP-wallas became chowkidars by adding the word to their official Twitter handles. Clever. But, perhaps a bit too clever. Hilarious video interviews with true-blue chowkidars across India told a different story. Most of the professional chowkidars were not amused! They felt insulted! They take pride in their jobs. They are not pretenders like these chaps. Imagine that! Chowkidars are a unique breed in India. They go by different names I like durwan better than chowkidar. Durwans are traditional doorkeepers. Todays fancy chowkidars, on the other hand, are given smart uniforms by the agencies that train them. They are then packed off and called security guards. The old-school chowkidars were different chowkidari ran in families. A chowkidars son or son-in-law took over the job when the old man died. In some cities, these loyal and wonderful men were called Gurkhas, even if they were not from Nepal. Gurkha was the generic description for the person who locked the gates of the mansion/haveli at night, and sat on a rickety chair next to the chowki armed with a danda. To let his masters know he was not sleeping on the job, he was instructed to walk around the property, banging the danda on the stone floor on the hour. He would wake up all the strays in the neighbourhood, of course, but he would also impress his sethlog into believing in him, while they snored away on gigantic four-poster beds. Trusting your chowkidar was key to your own sense of safety. Aha there you have it! The magic word. Trust. At the moment there is a major trust deficit in India. And all the chowkidars are suspect. They are armed with dandas all right. But if those dandas are there to be used against innocent citizens, then we have a monumental problem. Regardless of who wields the danda, chowkidars are getting a bad name. Who is a chor and who isnt is for the courts to decide. But that there are countless chors on the prowl cannot be denied. One maha chor was arrested in London earlier this week. The question being asked is what were all our chowkidars doing while Nirav Modi was living the high life openly in Britains capital He was not in hiding. He was not maintaining a low profile. He was busy setting up a brand new business! Since there was nothing covert about any of this, surely any competent chowkidar would have alerted the authorities in London and moved fast to pick up the fugitive and bring him back to India to face the music. But that didnt happen. It took an intrepid reporter from the Telegraph newspaper to spot Nirav Modi on a busy street and film him as he smoothly evaded questions with a calm, terse No comments. It was only after this dramatic expose that our chowkidars woke up. This is a patently disingenuous move. They must have known all along where Nirav Modi was hanging out. What are our intelligence sleuths there for, if not to track the biggest financial criminal and indict him? If that didnt happen, our chief chowkidar should admit to the obvious intelligence failure and take responsibility for the lapse. And hello! The dramatic arrest in a bank, as Nirav Modi tried to open an account, has everything to do with the alertness of a bank clerk who called the police. Where were our chowkidars? Still sleeping? A criminal who looted Rs 13,500 crores from Indian banks, would have still been out of jail (where he is currently lodged), had a British reporter and a bank clerk not done what all our chowkidars collectively failed to. Disgraceful! Ditto for the intelligence failure behind the dastardly Pulwama attack. Will we ever know the truth behind what took place under the chief chowkidars watch that awful night? How could a lone terrorist drive into a military convoy undetected, and kill over 40 CRPF men in one swift and suicidal operation? Are we not supposed to question our chief chowkidar? More than a month later, and post-Balakot, citizens are still struggling to come to terms with the tragedy. The chowkidars are keeping mum. What can they say, anyway? Now that the countdown to elections 2019 has begun, it is already a bit too late in the day to question the purana chowkidars about the myriad lapses that have impacted our lives and left gaping credibility holes. A chowkidars primary role is to guard and protect those who have hired him. In this case it is we, the people. It is the chowkidars job to safeguard Indias security and safety, putting that above all else. As of now, citizens are not feeling safe. There is a confidence issue. The distress is also being caused by the lack of a better chowkidar on the scene. If this one has to be sacked, who will replace him? A chowkidars job is never easy. This sprawling zamindari is called India. The chowkidar is honour-bound to protect its soil and people howsoever vast and unwieldy. India belongs to every citizen. We are the stakeholders. If the next chowkidar does not possess a 56-inch-chest, we wont complain. We are not intimidated by a danda either. Thats antiquated! Dandas dont create jobs. Only a shrewd chowkidar who figures out something as basic and delivers on promises made, will restore lost confidence and win our hearts and votes. So Mitronnnnn may the best chowkidar win. Errrr, since we are on the topic, my money is on a female chowkidar. There, I said it! In democracies the world over, institutions are constitutionally mandated to serve their nation in consonance with the nations aspirations and objectives. An institution exists because and for the nation, and not the other way around. Legally and logically, all institutions are accountable to the Constitution from which they derive their responsibilities and strength. In India the image of most institutions over the years, since the countrys Independence, has taken a beating as regards their equity, performance, professional integrity at least in public perception. However, if there is one institution which has unquestionably retained its awe and respect in the nations acuity and, equally, its emotions, its the Indian armed forces. Through challenging times faced by the nation since Indias violent Partition in 1947, Indias armed forces have acquitted themselves with the highest professionalism, uncommon valour and sacrifices to uphold the integrity and honour of the nation. However, events of the past month, namely, the Pulwama terrorist strike and Indias retaliatory air operations in Pakistans Balakot have raised significant points in the minds of some security analysts, the foreign media and even some doubting Thomases in India as regards the results of the military action. The dividing line between military transparency vis-a-vis military secrecy has been much debated. A few skeptics and some learned ones too have asked: Does the unique respect of the nation towards its armed forces make the latter remain in the comfort zone of its cocoon, answerable to no one but themselves? It is essential, in keeping with the glorious reputation of Indias tri-services, that doubts in the minds of anyone and anywhere are amply answered in the larger interests of the nation and the armed forces themselves. The defence forces exist to defend the country from external and internal aggression, to preserve and further national interests something that they have consistently achieved with matchless sacrifices, aplomb and victories for the nation. However, it is equally important that wherever shortcomings in their operations surface, those must not be pushed under the carpet and ignored on some fuzzy notions of misplaced pride, secrecy or political considerations under pressure from the ruling establishment. Operational security considerations also must be given their due importance for the elements of surprise and secrecy substantially govern success in military operations. The dastardly Pakistan-inspired and supported terrorist strike on February 14, 2019, on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir resulted in more than 40 fatalities. That this tragedy is attributable to a serious intelligence failure, shoddy road clearance drills besides the faulty decision to dispatch such huge numbers of paramilitary personnel by road and not by air (as now ordered) cannot be denied by security professionals anywhere. That India altered the counter-terror policy paradigm by launching retributive aerial attacks deep inside Pakistani territory was indeed a welcome change and, resultantly, would have sent the correct signal to a terrorism-sponsoring Pakistan. The Indian Air Forces deep strike and the resultant casualties in and damage caused to Jaish-e-Mohammeds training camp in Balakot in Pakistans Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province and the next days shallow aerial counter strike in the Poonch-Naushera sector by Pakistan would have thrown up many lessons for Indias security hierarchy. That these lessons are addressed with alacrity and the seriousness they demand requires no elaboration. Even in a democracy where transparency is essential in certain policy matters, the media, especially the over-noisy electronic media, has to absorb the fact that strategies and tactics, operational details, targeting and timings, employment of new weapons and platforms, strengths and weaknesses must not be discussed in the public domain. However, at an opportune time, the official arm of the government/services can and must share relevant details with the public which do not compromise national security. Equally, lapses, where emerging, even within the security forces must be analysed in great depth for future improvements. Post the Kargil War, the Vajpayee government had, very appropriately, carried out a comprehensive review of Indias higher defence management under the aegis of the Kargil Review Committee (KRC) and the Group of Ministers (GoM). The KRC and the GoM had done a remarkable job and some of the security organisations now in place owe their existence to them. Though India was clearly victorious in the Kargil War, the government at that time did not hesitate to discuss openly whatever shortcomings in the defence structure there were, dispensing the garb of national security or jingoistic patriotism! In the US, it is commonplace for serving generals/admirals to depose and testify before congressional committees on matters pertaining to national security. Accountability to the nation is thus a very normal hallmark in all democracies. As the worlds largest democracy and an aspiring global player, India has to conduct itself like one. Consequently, all its institutions have to be scrupulously accountable to the nations Constitution and not to personalities or political dispensations. The Indian armed forces are held in near-reverence and affection by the nation, necessitating them to always display professional acumen, moral courage and integrity of the highest order. As the last bastion of the state, the three services, both in peace and war, must continue to serve the nation as only they can and never, ever compromise on the values of truth, honour and valour. For retaining their high-pedestal-esteem in a democratic set-up, the armed forces must also accept that they are no holy cows either and should welcome any legitimate queries from the government or the public as regards their functioning or performance as long as operational security considerations are not compromised. Equally, responsible people in the nation must acknowledge the simple fact that merely questioning the government or any institution on matters pertaining to national security is not being anti-national! Candidates must be over 25 years of age and from India, and they must submit to the Election Commission Form 2A. (Photo: File) Candidates to the first phase of the great Indian election will be busy filing their nomination papers before the last date, which is Monday, March 25 (the deadline for nominations for phase two is Tuesday). I was interested in looking at some of the things that are routine for all candidates but which voters may not be aware of. The deadline is, of course, sacrosanct and cannot be messed with. Many years ago, Syed Shahabuddin, the former diplomat, told me that he had been physically blocked from filing his nomination to the Kishanganj constituency in Bihar. His opponent, who was with the Congress then and is today in the BJP, was dropped as a minister recently. This was in the late 1980s, and I think elections have become a lot smoother now. Lets look at the process of nominations. Candidates must be over 25 years of age and from India, and they must submit to the Election Commission Form 2A. This is the nomination paper to the Lok Sabha (State Assembly election forms are 2B). The form is filled out by a voter who knows the candidate and proposes him or her. They must also swear allegiance to the Constitution of India and its sovereignty and integrity in an oath before the returning officer. Candidates standing from more than one constituency, like Prime Minister Narendra Modi did in 2014, from Varanasi and Vadodara, can take the oath only once (however, the security deposit for the second seat is not returned for such candidates). Candidates filing from jail can take the oath before the prison superintendent. You can swear either in the name of god, or just say that you solemnly affirm, if you are not a believer. Then candidates must submit in full the record and details of any criminal charges against them. Candidates for seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes (there are 84 in all) must be on the list of Scheduled Castes anywhere in India. Candidates on seats reserved for the Scheduled Tribes in Assam and Lakshadweep must be from those states particular tribes. Candidates will be disqualified if they are: found to be insane by a court or if they are insolvent (bankrupt). I cannot think of any instances in our history where a disqualification under these two grounds has happened. Perhaps now, with the bankruptcy law, this might change. Candidates are also disqualified if they have been convicted for some specific offences that are listed. These include promoting hatred between groups, bribery, rape, caste discrimination, smuggling, terrorism, drugs, insulting the flag and promoting sati. The disqualification is for six years from the date of the conviction. The Election Commission itself recommends that candidates fight for their nomination. The handbook it issues says: In one word, when any objection is raised against your nomination paper you should try to impress upon the returning officer that he should not reject the nomination paper on any flimsy or technical ground. If he is satisfied as to the identity of the candidate and of the proposer then he should not reject the nomination paper only on ground of any technical defect or inaccurate description in the name of candidate or the proposer or the inaccurate description of any place. And: Tell the Returning Officer that if he rejects any nomination paper on any such technical unsubstantial or flimsy ground then that may be regarded as an improper rejection of a nomination paper which may have the effect of voiding the entire election thus involving a huge waste of public money, public time and public energy. I think the process is fine except for the security deposit and its forfeiture. Candidates who do not get more than 16.6 per cent of the total votes polled lose their deposit. This is often reported in the media, and the opponents laugh about it. More than 75 per cent of all candidates, meaning over 64,000 people, have lost their deposits since our first election. My Election Commission handbook says the deposit is `10,000 and for SC/ST candidates it is `5,000. This is not much money. Its too small an amount to deter those who want to maliciously crowd a ballot paper and make it very long. On the other hand, it does not prevent those who are contesting with ulterior motives (for example, with the intention of withdrawing later after collecting bribes from other candidates). The law on forfeiting deposits exists in all or most Commonwealth nations and comes to us as a gift from England. There is no reason for us to continue with this tradition. Forfeiture of deposit discourages people from contesting, especially those who are not from the major political parties. The very idea of forfeiture seems to suggest some sort of failure on the part of those who do not get more than 16 per cent of the vote, which is harsh, particularly in a large nation like India. It also punishes small groups and small interests and small coalitions. We would do well to encourage all Indians to participate in democracy by contesting and laws that prevent or deter individuals and parties should be relooked at. Trump, who has previously spoken of "love" for the totalitarian leader, appears to retain hope that his strong personal relationship. (Photo:AP) Washington: President Donald Trump on Friday abruptly announced the cancellation of sanctions imposed by his own Treasury Department to tighten international pressure on North Korea. "It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" Trump said in a tweet. He appeared to be referring to measures unveiled Thursday that targeted two Chinese companies accused of helping North Korea to evade tight international sanctions meant to pressure Pyongyang into ending its nuclear weapons program. They were the first new sign of pressure since talks between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un broke down in Hanoi less than a month ago. However, Trump, who has previously spoken of "love" for the totalitarian leader, appears to retain hope that his strong personal relationship will bear fruit. "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary," the president's spokeswoman, Sarah Sanders, said. It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 Adam Schiff, a Democrat who heads the intelligence committee in the House of Representatives, blasted Trump for cancelling sanctions "imposed only yesterday and championed by his own national security advisor, because he 'loves' Kim." "Foolish naivete is dangerous enough. Gross incompetence and disarray in the White House make it even worse," Schiff tweeted. On Thursday, Trump national security advisor John Bolton had tweeted that the sanctions were meant to put an end to "illicit shipping practices" by North Korea. "Everyone should take notice and review their own activities to ensure they are not involved in North Korea's sanctions evasion," he said. China complained, saying that it did enforce all UN resolutions and opposed "any country imposing unilateral sanctions and taking long-arm jurisdiction against any Chinese entity according to their own domestic laws." This was Trump's second major, unexpected foreign policy announcement by Twitter in two days. On Thursday, he sent a tweet reversing decades of US policy and pledged to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the hotly contested Golan Heights border area with Syria. Chicago: The three US airlines that own Boeing Cos 737 MAX are meeting the US manufacturer this weekend to review a software upgrade for the jet that has suffered two fatal crashes in five months, officials from the airlines told Reuters. The meetings are a sign that Boeings planned software patch is nearing completion, though it will still need regulatory approval. Southwest Airlines Co, American Airlines and United Airlines operate 34, 24 and 14 MAX jets respectively. Southwests delegation includes experts from its technical pilot and training teams who will review documentation and training associated with Boeings updated speed trim system, spokeswoman Brandy King said on Friday. Boeings signature jet was grounded across the world last week following a deadly Ethiopian Airlines crash near Addis Ababa on March 10, just five months after a Lion Air crash in Indonesia. Ethiopian and French investigators have pointed to clear similarities between the two crashes, which killed 346 people, putting pressure on Boeing and US regulators to come up with an adequate fix. The causes of the crashes are still unknown. American pilots told Reuters on Thursday that they also plan to test Boeings software upgrade this weekend in Renton, Washington, where Boeing makes the jets and has two simulators. United will also meet with Boeing in Renton on Saturday, spokesman Frank Benenati said. Meanwhile, Southwest is preparing to begin moving on Saturday its entire MAX fleet to a facility in Victorville, California, at the southwestern edge of the Mojave Desert. The planes being in one place will be more efficient for performing the repetitive maintenance necessary for stationary aircraft, as well as any future software enhancements that need to take place, King said. The US Federal Aviation Administration must approve Boeings software changes as well as new pilot training, a process that could take weeks or longer. Regulators in Europe and Canada have said they will conduct their own reviews of any new systems. Boeing shares have fallen 14 percent since the Ethiopian crash, and every day that its jets are grounded comes at a cost both to the manufacturer and the airlines that purchased them for their more fuel-efficient engines and longer range. Baghouz: US-backed forces in Syria announced on Saturday they have liberated the last area held by the Islamic State in the eastern Syrian village of Baghouz, declaring victory over the extremist group and the end of its self-declared Islamic caliphate. "Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved," tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, referring to the group by its Arabic acronym. Elimination of the last IS stronghold in Baghouz marks the end of the militants' self-declared caliphate, which at its height blanketed large parts of Syria and Iraq. The campaign to take back the territory by the US and its partners has spanned five years and two U.S. presidencies, unleashed more than 100,000 bombs and killed untold numbers of fighters and civilians. But the weekend announcement, in a tweet, was anti-climactic, and on the ground sporadic gunfire continued. A day earlier, President Donald Trump declared that Islamic State militants no longer control any territory in Syria. Associated Press journalists in Baghouz on Saturday reported hearing mortars and gunfire directed toward a cliff overlooking Baghouz, where US-led coalition airstrikes were carried out a day earlier. SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel told the AP Friday that there were still IS fighters hiding in caves near Baghouz and that clearing operations were still underway. At its height, the Islamic State group ruled a third of both Syria and Iraq, holding millions of people hostage to its harsh and violent interpretation of Islamic law. The group carried out large-scale massacres and documented them with slickly produced videos circulated online. During a rampage through Iraq's Sinjar region in 2014, it captured thousands of women and girls from the Yazidi religious minority and forced them into sexual slavery. Many remain missing to this day. The group also used its caliphate as a launchpad for attacks around the globe, including the assaults in Paris in 2015 that killed more than 130 people. While it imposed an unforgiving version of Islamic law through public beheadings and crucifixions, the group also carried out the mundane duties of governance in its territories, including regulating prices at markets and building infrastructure. IS no longer controls any territory in Syria or Iraq, but continues to carry out insurgent attacks in both countries. It also maintains affiliates in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan and elsewhere. Ailing Nawaz is currently serving imprisonment at Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore in connection with graft cases. (Photo:Twitter) Islamabad: Daughter of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Thursday thanked the Punjab government here for addressing her ailing father's 'deteriorating health'. I am told that MNSs blood samples to check his renal function (urea & creatinine) have been taken. Thank you very much. I hope the lab results, as soon as they come, will also be shared with me, Maryam tweeted while apparently referring to her father. Permission to meet MNS also granted. Thank you again, she added. Ailing Nawaz is currently serving imprisonment at Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore in connection with graft cases. In her previous tweets, Maryam had said that Sharif's renal function is "deteriorating further" and "his kidney disease is on stage three", demanding the Punjab government to free her father. Maryam stated that the doctor who went for the medical check-up of Nawaz "was not allowed in and sent back." Maryam claimed that letters requesting permission to visit her father had been sent by her without any response given in turn by the authorities. Permission to meet MNS also granted. Thank you again. https://t.co/hqWLVAGqgJ Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) March 22, 2019 She warned that she will hold a protest if jail authorities will not provide Nawaz with medical help until tomorrow. Meanwhile, in response to her tweets, Punjab chief minister's spokesperson, Shahbaz Gill, in a series of video footages, revealed the conversation where he had in which he talked in detail about Sharif's daily activities, food intake and health indicators such as blood pressure, slaming all claims made by the former Prime Ministers daughter, Dawn reported. Gill questioned the accusations made over Sharifs health and the manner in which it was "politicised and used as a tool for vengeance". Gill further assured Maryam that her father was receiving the best of medical attention and had not complained of anything in the past 12 days apart from a toothache for which a dental surgeon was called in immediately. He said that blood and urine samples had already been taken and sent to the laboratory, promised to share the results soon. Sharif was shifted to Jinnah Hospital on February 15 after he complained of fever, stomach ache, and headache. However, he was later moved to the jail after Islamabad High Court last week rejected his petition seeking bail on medical grounds. Citing inadequate availability of medical facilities in jail, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members, in February, had requested the Punjab Assembly secretariat to grant permission to the three-time Prime Minister to go abroad for his medical treatment. He also added that this 'desire for peace should not be considered as weakness.' (Photo: Twitter) Islamabad: Pakistan's President Arif Alvi on Saturday said that his country wants to resolve all issues with India through a comprehensive dialogue, but added that this desire for peace should not be considered as weakness. Addressing a gathering during the National Day parade in Islamabad, President Alvi said: "We will ensure Pakistan's prosperity. Instead of war, we should focus on providing health, education and employment." "We are a responsible nation and want to sow the seeds of peace in the region. We do not believe in war and want to resolve all issues through dialogue. India's attitude has been irresponsible and we were accused of Pulwama attack without any evidence. Our desire for peace should not be mistaken as weakness," the President said. The President went on to add that over the years Pakistan has become a strong and peaceful nuclear power and India needs to accept this reality. Diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan have of late deteriorated after the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 security personnel were killed on February 14. Responsibility of the terror attack was claimed by Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). The tension got further escalated when 2000 Mirage fighter planes of the Indian Air Force crossed over the Line of Control and bombed a training camp of JeM located in Balakot on February 26. India violated international laws. It was our duty to respond to Indian aggression. We promptly responded to Indian aggression with better strategy, President Alvi said while referring to the Balakot airstrikes. The Indian government on Friday boycotted the Pakistan National Day reception organised by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, citing invitation to separatists from Jammu and Kashmir as the reason behind the boycott. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a message to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the occasion. However, sources said the message was a customary unsigned letter which is sent to heads of states on their National days. The sources further emphasised that the letter to Khan highlighted terrorism in South Asia. Mr Qureshi who returned from Beijing on Thursday after attending the first strategic bilateral dialogue between the two all-weather allies. (File Photo) Islamabad: Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said he discussed the issue of Masood Azhar with close ally China, which blocked for the fourth time a proposal at the UN to designate the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief as a ''global terrorist''. Mr Qureshi who returned from Beijing on Thursday after attending the first strategic bilateral dialogue between the two all-weather allies, heaped praise on China. "We take each other into confidence on all issues. Sometime they guide us and sometimes they change their policy after listening to us," he said after talks with Chinese Foriegn Minister Wang Yi. Mr Qureshi said he discussed the issue of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Azhar with China, which used its right of technical hold to stop a proposal by France, the US and the UK against him at the UN Security Council. China, a veto-wielding permanent member of the Security Council, for the fourth time blocked a bid in the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist", saying it wanted "more time to examine" the proposal. The technical hold is valid for up to six months and it can be again extended by up to three months. India has described the outcome as "disappointing". The JeM claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama suicide attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead and raised tensions between India and Pakistan. "As you know, China despite a lot of pressure used the right of technical hold in order to collect more information on the issue.... We talked what US, China and UK were thinking about it," Mr Qureshi said. He said the two sides held discussion on the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanction Committee but refused to share details. He said Pakistan was aware what the world wanted on the issue of Azhar. "We are aware. We know what the world wants, what we should do, what are our interests, and what should be our policy. It (issue of Azhar) should be seen in larger context...It should be seen in the context of money laundering and what FATF is saying because it is all linked," he said. Qureshi further said that discussion with China on the issue of Masood Azhar will continue. He also said that Pakistan was analysing the contents of the dossier given by India on Pulwama. "We are serious about it and are analysing the dossier and (will) present our findings to you (media) and to the world," the foreign minister said. Amidst the Indo-Pak tensions following the Pulwama terror attack by a JeM suicide bomber, Mr Qureshi confirmed that Masood Azhar was present in Pakistan but said he was "very ill." He said Pakistan was committed to address terrorism and eliminate it completely from the country. Congress on Friday found itself in knots over Rahul Gandhi's close aide Sam Pitroda raising questions over the casualty in Balakot and disapproving of the act of sending planes off to Pakistan after a terror strike. BJP went hammer and tongs with Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing Congress of demeaning Indian armed forces and siding with Pakistan. The controversy brought back the spotlight on the national security narrative, which was working to the advantage of BJP and from which Congress was trying to shift focus and reorient the political narrative about issues like jobs and far distress. Not surprisingly, the BJP went the whole hog and seized the issue to bring back the focus on the issue of terror and paint Congress as pro-Pakistan. The discourse just two months could substantially damage Congress prospects in Lok Sabha polls. Not surprisingly, Congress hurriedly went into a damage control mode, describing Pitrodas remarks as individual personal opinion. Scared of the stunning Corruption Expose breaking this afternoon which implicates Senior BJP leadership, the Chor Chowkidar is using his favourite diversionary tactic - Terror Attack Politics! But India will not be fooled by his rhetoric any longer!, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala tweeted. Modi said that Pitroda's remarks indicate that Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror while BJP chief Amit Shah saying while Congress heart beats for terrorists, that of BJP beats for the tri-colour. Difference between Opposition and BJP is clear. They suspect our army, we are proud of our army. Their heart beats for terrorists, ours beats for the Tiranga. This election, through the power of your vote, do a surgical strike on the Congress culture, Shah said tweeting with a hashtag #JantaMaafNahiKaregi (people will not forgive.. Pitroda, the Chief of Indian Overseas Congress, who was very close to late Rajiv Gandhi earlier said that he would like to know more than what did really attack. Did we really kill 300 people. I want to know in Balakot and referred to foreign publications, which raised questions on the casualty claim of the Indian government. He also said that if eight people come and do something, you dont really jump on an entire nation as it is naive to assume that just because some people came here and attacked, every citizen of that nation is to be blamed. He said that even UPA government could have sent some planes to Pakistan after 26/11 attack but it is not done that way. Later as the controversy broke out, he explained his remarks saying asking a question does not mean I am against government's decision. That does not mean I do not support jawans. All I am saying is that can we get facts. He said his statement was twisted. Modi was unsparing in his criticism of Pitroda. The most trusted advisor and guide of the Congress President has kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of the Congress, ironically by demeaning Indias armed forces. Shame! Loyal courtier of Congress royal dynasty admits what the nation already knew- Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror. This is a New India- we will answer terrorists in a language they understand and with interest! Latching on to comments Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said what Sam Pitroda shows believed that the step taken by the Indian government was wrong. This is not something that has been said even by the Organisation of Islamic Countries. Only Pakistan has said this. It is most unfortunate that someone who is an ideologue of the Congress party has said this". He said this is now an ideological battle between those who want to defend India through all resources and strategy at their command and those who want to fight terrorism with kid gloves and their hands tied behind. The US-China trade war seems to be coming to an end as reports of a possible deal have gathered momentum in recent days. The US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has expressed optimism that trade talks with China aimed at ending tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of products will be successful. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has also suggested that the two sides were getting closer to a deal and White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow underlined that the progress (between the two countries) has been terrific. Negotiations are reportedly in the last leg as the two sides plan a summit for the end of March at Mar-a-Lago, US President Donald Trumps Florida resort. Despite the hype, it still remains to be seen if the deal actually goes through. If a deal is reached, the US would roll back tariffs on at least $200 billion in Chinese goods while China would reduce industry-specific levies like those on autos. Meanwhile, China is also gearing up to pass a new foreign investment law to provide a level playing field to global investors with legal safeguards on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and technology transfer, thereby meeting a key demand of the Trump Administration. This draft foreign investment law will be submitted to the National Peoples Congress of China for review this week and is likely to be put to vote by next week. China has also offered to increase purchases of US goods by $1.2 trillion over six years, benefiting agriculture and energy. That would allay President Trumps concerns about the chronic US trade deficit with Beijing. For their part, Beijing is insisting that removing levies on $200 billion of Chinese goods quickly was necessary to finalise any possible deal. The two countries are planning to set up a regular consultations mechanism at various levels of the US and Chinese governments to address trade irritants. According to the US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer the US will respond with proportional and unilateral action, like tariffs, if talks fail to achieve the desired result. The Trump administration is still debating about the wisdom of lifting the duties at the beginning of a deal because keeping some of the tariffs in place would allow the US to maintain leverage. The US and China, the two largest global economies, are locked in a trade war since Trump imposed heavy tariffs on imported steel and aluminium items from China in March last year, which led to China imposing tit-for-tat tariffs on billions of dollars worth of American imports. China finds itself in a tough spot. It has lowered its goal for economic growth and announced a major tax cut, amidst a growing debt crisis and trade conflict with the US. Its 2019 GDP growth target of 6%-6.5% is the slowest pace of economic growth in almost three decades. Last month, Chinese exports plunged 21% from a year earlier, with the value of goods shipped to the US falling much more sharply than for other major markets. Even if trade tensions ease with the US, Chinese economy continues to face debt risks and slowing of domestic consumption growth. It is, therefore, not surprising that China is hurrying up to resolve the trade standoff with the US. Yet Chinese President Xi Jinping would have to be careful of the optics of signing a deal with Trump which will be proclaimed as a big win by Trump. Losing face vis-a-vis Trump can be dangerous for Xi back home. For Donald Trump, a trade deal with China will be seen as a victory after a string of defeats domestically and tightening of screws on the Russia investigation. If a deal is reached with China, then Trump would claim victory in the negotiations, allowing him to save face politically after his humiliating climb-down on his pet project of wall funding. Meanwhile, the US economy is also facing negative headwinds. Approach of transactionalism Though a US-China trade rapprochement would be good news for the global economy facing crises on multiple fronts, it is not readily evident if the structural issues that bedevil US-China trade relations will disappear anytime soon even with a possible deal. But the Chinese are essentially pragmatists and they have recognised the need to reach a modus vivendi with Trump. Much before Trump made transactionalism popular, Beijings approach was transactional in more ways than one. As Trump turns his attention to India on trade, it remains to be seen if New Delhi can also imbibe a bit of transactionalism in its approach. Trump has made it clear that he intends to end Indias preferential trade treatment under a programme that allows $5.6 billion worth of Indian exports to enter the United States duty free, asserting that New Delhi has failed to assure America of equitable and reasonable access to its markets. India is the worlds largest beneficiary of the GSP programme and ending its participation would be the strongest punitive action against India since Trump took office in 2017. Though New Delhi has asserted that this move is not likely to have a significant impact on bilateral trade, it does add a note of strain in an otherwise robust bilateral strategic partnership. Trump notwithstanding, the strategic logic of Indo-US engagement is quite clear to policymakers on both sides. Given that these are election times, the temptation in India might be to play to the gallery. But as the Chinese have shown, quiet diplomatic engagement might also be the best way forward for India. A pragmatic problem solving approach is likely to yield New Delhi much greater dividends than an openly confrontational one. (The writer is Director, Studies at Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi and Professor of International Relations at Kings College London) A problem of plenty ails Indias Opposition. Efforts to forge a grand national-level alliance have failed to take off despite there being all-round agreement about the primary goal: Foiling an aggressive Narendra Modi re-election bid. A surfeit of claimants from Mamata Banerjee to Mayawati to Chandrababu Naidu, each reportedly nursing prime ministerial ambitions of their own, makes the question of leadership in the Opposition look undecided. It projects the front if it can be called that as weak and undecided, compared to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, with its we have a strong leader in Modi pitch. Therefore, when the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati tweeted on March 20, 2019 that she was not an MLA or MLC when she became chief minister for the first time in 1995 explaining her decision not to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls it once again spotlighted the biggest problem in the Opposition ranks. Not surprisingly, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has repeatedly taken to asking who is the Opposition PM candidate a question that seems to hang like the proverbial Damocles sword over the efforts to push Modi and the BJP back. For example, when Trinamool Congress Mamata Banerjee organized a united Opposition rally in Kolkata in January 2019, the BJP had mocked the stellar gathering on the stage saying all of them had ambitions of becoming prime minister. Rahul Gandhi, Mayawati, Mamata Banerjee and some regional players, all have ambitions to become prime minister, Union Law Minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad, said. Many others have followed suit, not least of them the PM, who has dubbed the supposed mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) a mahamilavat (grand confusion). Interestingly, while the Congress has tried to evade a direct reply to the question of who will be PM if the Opposition wins, regional parties have unabashedly batted for their leaders. This implies regional parties are unwilling to accept Congress President, Rahul Gandhi, as the Oppositions joint PM candidate. Barring the Dravida Munntera Kazhagam (MK Stalin) and some supportive noises from the Janata Dal (Secular) (HD Deve Gowda), no other regional party has backed the idea of Gandhi as the PM candidate. This is so even though the Congress, which touched its lowest-ever tally of 44 seats in 2014, is still the single largest party in Parliament after the BJP. However, it needs elbow room as it tries to forge alliances with regional parties in different states on the common plank of defeating Modi and can ill afford giving the impression that it is the natural contender for the PMs post. The regional parties are all well aware of this predilection. In 2018, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasads son, Tejashwi Yadav, said Gandhi is not the only leader from the Opposition in the race for the PMs post. He had named leaders like Banerjee, Telugu Desam Partys Chandrababu Naidu, Nationalist Congress Partys (NCP) Sharad Pawar and Mayawati and made it clear that the RJD will support anyone named as the united Oppositions PM candidate. In January 2019, UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav gave a vague answer when queried about the PM issue: As far as the leadership issue is concerned, it is actually the people who decide it...you will see, in time to come, how many choices we have. In UP, slogans of Akhilesh for PM by his supporters in the Samajwadi Party are not a new thing. In West Bengal, Banerjee is routinely projected by TMC leaders as the main challenger to Modi, and BJP's divisive politics. Banerjee, whose party could emerge as the third largest after the Congress and the BJP in 2019, may be said to have more reasons to nurse this ambition than others. But, Mayawati has signalled she is not going to be left behind. ...(There) is provision at the Centre where a person have to be a LS/RS member within 6 months of holding office of minister/PM. Don't disheartened from my decision not to contest LS poll now,(sic) Mayawati tweeted, seeking to lift the morale of her supporters, who, the party felt, did not like the announcement of her not contesting the Lok Sabha polls. In the press conference where she announced her decision not to contest, Mayawati explained she wanted to ensure a larger victory for BSP and SP through massive campaigning, which would be difficult if her party workers were focussed on her own victory in one seat. Championing Mayawati are leaders such as Andhra Pradeshs Pawan Kalyan (Jana Sena) who has announced a tie-up with the BSP for the southern state. In the past, Haryanas Indian National Lok Dal and JD (S) have also hailed Mayawati as a future PM. In August 2018, Pawar who has decided not to fight the 2019 polls had said that former Congress president, Sonia Gandhi, Gowda and he, himself, were the three senior leaders who could unite the Opposition. Incidentally, he had described all the three as leaders with no ambition to become Prime Minister. However, this did not quell the buzz that Gowda could be a PM face for 2019. The clamour around the names and numbers of the Oppositions PM aspirants is only expected to grow as the election approaches. Perhaps even Pawar may not have ruled himself out entirely, given that he has nursed the desire to be PM for decades. Its clearly every woman and man for herself or himself in the Opposition camp. And BJP is determined to milk it. WASHINGTON (AP) Special counsel Robert Mueller on Friday turned over his long-awaited final report on the contentious Russia investigation that has cast a dark shadow over Donald Trumps presidency, entangled Trumps family and resulted in criminal charges against some of the presidents closest associates. The comprehensive report, still confidential, marks the end of Muellers probe but sets the stage for big public fights to come. The next steps are up to Trumps attorney general, to Congress and, in all likelihood, federal courts. The Justice Department said the report was delivered by a security officer Friday afternoon to the office of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, and then it went to Attorney General William Barr. Word of the delivery triggered reactions across Washington, including Democrats demands that it be released publicly before long and Republicans contentions that it ended two years of wasted time and money. Barr released a letter noting his plans to write his own account of Muellers findings. The White House released a statement saying it had not seen or been briefed on the special counsels document. What happens next is up to Attorney General Barr, said White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. Barr said he could send his account to Congress quickly. I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, Barr said in his letter the top Republicans and Democrats on the House and Senate Judiciary committees. He pledged a commitment to transparency. The attorney general said the Justice Department had not denied any request from the special counsel, something Barr would have been required to disclose to Congress to ensure there was no political inference in the independent probe. With no details released at this point, its not known whether Muellers report answers the core questions of his investigation: Did Trumps campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favor of the celebrity businessman? Also, did Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? But the delivery of the report does mean the investigation has concluded without any public charges of a criminal conspiracy between the campaign and Russia, or of obstruction by the president. Mueller is not recommending any further indictments in the Russia probe, a Justice Department official confirmed Friday. That person, who described the document as comprehensive, was not authorized to discuss the probe and asked for anonymity. Its unclear what steps Mueller will take if he uncovered what he believes to be criminal wrongdoing by Trump, in light of Justice Department legal opinions that have held that sitting presidents may not be indicted. The mere delivery of a confidential report set off immediate demands from Democrats for full release of Muellers findings. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer declared it imperative to make the full report public. The top congressional Democrats said, The American people have a right to the truth. Democrats also expressed concern that Trump would try to get a sneak preview of the findings. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public, they said in a joint statement. Barr has said he wants to make as much public as possible, and any efforts to withhold details will prompt a tussle between the Justice Department and lawmakers who may subpoena Mueller and his investigators to testify before Congress. Such a move by Democrats would likely be vigorously contested by the Trump administration. The conclusion of Muellers investigation does not remove legal peril for the president. Trump faces a separate Justice Department investigation in New York into hush money payments during the campaign to two women who say they had sex with him years before the election. Hes also been implicated in a potential campaign finance violation by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who says Trump asked him to arrange the transactions. Federal prosecutors, also in New York, have been investigating foreign contributions made to the presidents inaugural committee. No matter the findings in Muellers report, the investigation has already illuminated Russias assault on the American political system, painted the Trump campaign as eager to exploit the release of hacked Democratic emails and exposed lies by Trump aides aimed at covering up their Russia-related contacts. Over the 21-month investigation, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including six aides and advisers to the president, and three companies. The special counsel brought a sweeping indictment accusing Russian military intelligence officers of hacking Democrat Hillary Clintons campaign and other Democratic groups during the 2016 election. He charged another group of Russians with carrying out a large-scale social media disinformation campaign against the American political process that also sought to help Trump and hurt Clinton. Closer to the president, Mueller secured convictions against a campaign chairman who cheated banks and dodged his taxes, a national security adviser who lied about his Russian contacts and a campaign aide who misled the FBI about his knowledge of stolen emails. Cohen, the presidents former lawyer, pleaded guilty in New York to campaign finance violations arising from the hush money payments and in the Mueller probe to lying to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. Another Trump confidant, Roger Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied about his pursuit of Russian-hacked emails ultimately released by WikiLeaks. Its unclear whether any of the aides who have been convicted, all of whom have pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigators, might angle for a pardon. Trump has left open the idea of pardons. Along the way, Trump lawyers and advisers repeatedly evolved their public defenses to deal with the onslaught of allegations from the investigation. Where once Trump and his aides had maintained that there were no connections between the campaign and Russia, by the end of the probe Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani was routinely making the argument that even if the two sides did collude, it wasnt necessarily a crime. The goalpost shifting reflected the administrations challenge in adopting a singular narrative to fend off allegations. Equally central to Muellers work is his inquiry into whether the president tried to obstruct the investigation. Since the special counsels appointment in May 2017, Trump has increasingly tried to undermine the probe by calling it a witch hunt and repeatedly proclaiming there was NO COLLUSION with Russia. But Trump also took certain acts as president that caught Muellers attention and have been scrutinized for possible obstruction. One week before Muellers appointment, Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, later saying he was thinking of this Russia thing at the time. He mercilessly harangued Attorney General Jeff Sessions for recusing from the Russia investigation two months before Mueller was named special counsel, a move that left the president without a perceived loyalist atop the probe. And he helped draft a misleading statement on Air Force One as a Trump Tower meeting between his eldest son and a Kremlin-connected lawyer was about to become public. The meeting itself became part of Muellers investigation, entangling Donald Trump Jr. in the probe. Muellers team also interviewed the presidents son-in-law, Jared Kushner, multiple times. Even as Trump blasted Muellers team, his White House and campaign produced thousands of documents for the special counsel, and dozens of his aides were interviewed. The president submitted written answers to Mueller regarding the Russia investigation, but he refused to be interviewed over Donald Trumps presidency, entangled Trumps family and resulted in criminal charges against some of the presidents closest associates. The report, still confidential, marks the end of Muellers probe but sets the stage for big public fights to come. The next steps are up to Trumps attorney general, to Congress and, in all likelihood, federal courts. The Justice Department said Mueller delivered his final report to Attorney General William Barr and officially concluded his probe of Russian election interference and possible coordination with Trump associates. The report will now be reviewed by Barr, who has said he will write his own account communicating Muellers findings to Congress and the American public. Barr said he could release his account to Congress as soon as this weekend. With no details released at this point, its not known whether Muellers report answers the core questions of his investigation: Did Trumps campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favor of the celebrity businessman? Also, did Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? But the delivery of the report does mean the investigation has concluded without any public charges of a criminal conspiracy between the campaign and Russia, or of obstruction by the president. Its unclear what steps Mueller will take if he uncovered what he believes to be criminal wrongdoing by Trump, in light of Justice Department legal opinions that have held that sitting presidents may not be indicted. back soon for further information. APs earlier story is below. Special counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his investigation into Russian election interference and possible coordination with associates of President Donald Trump. The Justice Department says Mueller delivered his final report Friday to Attorney General William Barr, who is reviewing it. Muellers report, still confidential, sets the stage for big public fights to come. The next steps are up to Trumps attorney general, to Congress and, in all likelihood, federal courts. Its not clear how much of the report will become public or provided to Congress. Barr has said he will write his own report summarizing Muellers findings. The nearly two-year probe has shadowed Trumps presidency and resulted in felony charges against 34 people including six people who served on Trumps campaign. U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon is circulating a letter among her colleagues in Washington, D.C., to support continuing the previously planned upgrades to CH-47 Chinook helicopters at the Boeing Companys Ridley plant. Securing this contract is important to our national security and keeping jobs in our region, said Scanlon, D-5 of Swarthmore, in a statement. That is why my office has been taking concrete actions to encourage the administration to reconsider. I am working with Boeing and UAW on a letter to the (House) Appropriations Committee, and building support within the regional Congressional delegation. This is an important issue to not only our region but the country. Scanlon spokesperson Gabby Richards said she expects the Congresswoman will finalize getting signatures on her letter to the Appropriations and Armed Services committees, and send it off sometime next week. Under Secretary Ryan D. McCarthy announced that the U.S. Army would delay planned upgrades for the Chinook during a talk at the Brookings Institution earlier this month. The move comes as part of a broader effort to focus more on modernization in order to keep abreast with Russia and China in areas like air defense and electronic warfare, he said. United Aerospace Workers Local 1069 President Mike Tolassi said the news sent shockwaves throughout the plant and his team has been working with local and federal legislators to convince the Army to reverse course. The Chinook, a twin-engine, tandem rotor, heavy-lift cargo helicopter, has been a staple workhorse of the U.S. military and its allies for decades. It previously underwent a Block I upgrade that McCarthy indicated effectively makes it the youngest fleet in the Army and noted the Army already has 10 percent more Chinooks than it needs. But the Chinook, which has been built a the Ridley plant since the 1960s, has become heavier and bulkier over the years as additional armor was added. The tradeoff came in lowered range and lift ability, which the Block II upgrades were meant to address with advanced rotor blades, redesigned fuel tanks, a sturdier fuselage, and an improved drivetrain. Expected upgrades to the fleet of 542 aircraft would provide more than 2,000 additional lift-pounds of transport and allow the Chinook to stay in service for decades to come, according to a Boeing fact sheet. Boeing spokesman Andrew Africk said there are three Block II Chinooks on the production line currently under an Engineering Manufacturing Development contract with the Army, the first of which is due to come off the assembly line soon. Tolassi indicated that work is ahead of schedule and under budget. A formal flight test program for the first Block II test/prototype Chinook is scheduled to begin in the next few months at Boeings facility in Mesa, Arizona, according to Africk. Africk, Tolassi and others voiced concerns that delaying the program for the remaining fleet could have far-reaching consequences for warfighters, tax payers, small businesses, vendors and others. Republican U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, of Zionsville, sent a letter to Army Secretary Dr. Mark Esper earlier this month noting the Chinook enjoys an outsized role in supporting warfighters as the only heavy-lift rotator-craft capable of moving troops and heavy equipment. The skilled workers at Boeings Delaware County facility play a vital role in national security, the senator said in a statement Friday. Given the importance of the Chinook to our warfighters, I have elevated my concern about the delay of a key Chinook upgrade, known as the Block II, to Secretary Esper. This delay could increase the cost of the program and puts Pennsylvania jobs at risk. The Army should publicly explain its thinking and intention regarding the Chinooks future. Without the upgrades, Toomey worried that Chinooks will not be able to move the Armys Humvee replacement, the Joint Light Transport Vehicle, and will struggle to lift heavy ordinance like the M777 Howitzer. SALT LAKE CITY While on vacation in Idaho, local children's author Ally Condie saw a rusty old mining ship abandoned in a river, and it inspired the plot of her next young adult novel. "I was like, 'What is this? Is this something from the future, from another civilization?'" Condie said. "And that got my mind running." The best-selling author of the young adult dystopian "Matched" trilogy, Condie, who resides in Pleasant Grove, has been meandering into middle grade novels of late. These include her Edgar Award-nominated mystery "Summerlost" and her horror series "The Darkdeep," co-authored with Brendan Reichs. Now, after a five-year hiatus, Condie is returning to young adult dystopian with "The Last Voyage of Poe Blythe" (Dutton Books, 336 pages, ages 12 and up). Condie said it wasn't a conscious decision to take a break from writing young adult, she just happened to have ideas for middle grade books. Also, from 2015 to 2017, Condie was earning her Masters of Fine Arts in creative writing from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. "Honestly, going back and forth between middle grade and young adult is a dream for me," Condie said. "Because I love writing both things and that way I don't get fatigued on one or the other." She did enjoy getting to back to young adult where she could write a story with a "harder edge" and a bit more romance, she said. "The Last Voyage of Poe Blythe" tells the story of Poe, a 17-year-old captain of the last mining ship belonging to a secluded, dystopian civilization called the Outpost. On this last voyage, Poe is bent on revenge against the river raiders who took everything from her two years before. As she navigates the dangerous waters of the Serpentine River, she discovers a traitor amongst her crew and an ensuing catastrophe forces her to face her grief and the armor she's built to protect herself from ever feeling that pain again. Condie did her share of research into river dredges in order to write this story, including taking a tour of one in Sumpter Valley, Oregon, with her family. There, Condie learned about how fast the mining ships move and how loud they would be to work on. She did make modifications for the futuristic setting of her novel, including adding living quarters, she said. It was tricky for Condie to insert all the information she learned about river dredges, the main setting for "Poe Blythe," without impeding the plot. "I didn't want to slow down the real heart of the story, which is the character and her forward motion," she said. So, she had to work hard to explain aspects of the dredge while the characters were in the middle of the action. One of the main themes in "Poe Blythe," Condie said, is "what we would do for love." "Something we all have in common is there is someone that we would do a lot for," she said. "Whether that's a parent or someone we're in love with or a child everyone has that person in their lives where to lose them would be inconceivable." That's the situation Poe has to face that Condie hopes all readers will be able to feel a connection to. Right now, "Poe Blythe" is a standalone novel, but there is a possibility for subsequent books if there's a demand for them, Condie said. Her next co-authored book in the "The Darkdeep" series, titled "The Beast," releases this October, and, she said, she has another secret young adult project in the works as well. Condie thinks "Poe Blythe" should be a good fit for fans of "Matched," though the main character and love story are very different. She said there will actually be a few "Matched" Easter eggs within the pages of "Poe Blythe" that fans can look forward to. When asked if the dystopian genre is making a comeback in young adult novels, Condie said she doesn't think it ever left. "It's just been called different things, like 'sci-fi' or 'speculative fiction,'" she said. "But I think it's always going to be here. It's a genre that's still appealing and I don't think it will ever vanish." If you go What: Ally Condie book signing When: Tuesday, March 26, 7 p.m. Where: Provo Library, 500 N. University Ave., Provo How much: Free Web: kingsenglish.com, provolibrary.com/authorlink Note: Places in the signing line are reserved for those who purchase a copy of the featured book from The King's English. Are our phones and smart assistants always listening and recording everything we say? Many people believe they are, and no doubt someone has told you their anecdotal creepy story you may even have one of your own. If you have OK Google or Hey Siri enabled on your phone, it is indeed always listening for those trigger phrases. Google and Apple have both said phones dont start recording until they hear those triggers. But Dr. Peter Hannay, with cybersecurity firm Asterisk, told Vice, Apps like Facebook or Instagram could have thousands of triggers. We may not know what phrases could prompt those apps to start recording. But know that those apps can only record if youve given them microphone access on your phone. If the possibility that various apps could be recording you at any time bothers you, cut off mic access. On an iPhone, go to Settings>Privacy>Microphone and turn off access to any app that has requested use of your microphone. On an Android, the process will vary according to the manufacturer, but try looking in App permissions on the Apps & notifications screen. Again, turn off microphone access to any apps where the recording capability makes you uncomfortable. Banning microphone access could prove frustrating, though, if you like to post videos to social media that include sound. For the record, Facebook has said it does not use your phones microphone to inform ads or to change what you see in News Feed. Last year, Facebooks vice president of ads, Rob Goldman, told USA Today that the company has no plans to do so in the future. That still doesnt mean Facebook couldnt change its mind at any time. And the company knows more about you than you may realize. Every like, follow, post, comment and private message creates a fuller profile of who you are. Maybe you liked someone elses photos of their trip to Thailand, and maybe youve posted photos of Spring Break in the past, so Facebook knows you have another one coming up. That could explain the ad about a vacation, even though you didnt actively search for one recently. If you still dont like the idea of your phone recording you, turn off all the triggers that would prompt the phone to start recording. On iPhones, turn off the functions for Hey Siri, Press Side Button for Siri and Allow Siri When Locked by going to Settings>Siri & Search. To turn off the OK Google function on Android phones, go to Settings>Google>Search & Now>Voice. Another gadget that is always listening is a smart home assistant like Alexa or Google Home. Similar to your phone, these devices are waiting for you to call out their name so they can tell you about the weather, or the score from last nights game, or play music. Once someone says Alexa or OK Google, the device starts recording in order to fulfill your request. But did you know these companies not only record, but save every single request you make of your Echo or your Home Mini? Its true, and oftentimes a few seconds before and after your request are saved and stored as well. The good news is you can pull up every one of those recordings, listen to them (if you have a lot of time on your hands), delete the ones you dont want stored, or get rid of all the recordings in one fell swoop. To hear and possibly delete any or all Alexa requests, pull up the Alexa app and go to Settings>History. Amazon warns that your Alexa experience may not be as great if you delete all the voice recordings because it uses that information to learn and give better answers each time. If you dont want Alexa to always be listening, simply turn off the microphone on the device itself until youre ready to make a request. When you need Alexas help, you will need to press that on/off button to get her help once again. To delete recordings saved by Google from your Google Home requests, log in to your Google account, click on your profile picture and then go to Manage accounts>Google Activity Controls>Manage Activity. You can also mute the microphone on the device itself with a simple on/off toggle switch. Just remember you must hit that switch again if you want to call out OK Google to make a request. Once again, this is an issue that may come down to privacy versus convenience. Which is more important to you? Not sure? Maybe ask Alexa. Click here to watch Amy Iverson discuss this topic on KSL 5's "Studio 5." SALT LAKE CITY Utah Department of Transportation has already surpassed its $24.1 million budget for the year, but it will continue to plow through the snow in the mountains this weekend. "Were no stranger to winter weather here in Utah, so its not uncommon for us to get this type of snowfall in a year. Were always ready for it when it happens," said John Gleason, UDOT spokesman. Spring showers in the valley often bring UDOT crews to the mountains to clear snow. Gleason said as the ground temperatures rise the snow won't accumulate as much, but in the past the agency has plowed snow storms in the mountains through May. He said UDOT had a very active winter and already spent $26.4 million this year, already dipping into contingency funds. The money spent on snow removal will likely stall spring projects like shoulder work and replacing culverts. But it will not affect pot hole repairs, which Gleason says is critical to safety because they can cause crashes. "Pot hole repair is something that we will always be on top of," Gleason said. Gleason said increased storms in central and southern Utah made a large difference in snow removal costs this year. Snowstorms in the northern part of the state have been consistent. Lorn Vogt, deputy director for the Salt Lake Public Services Department, said her office surpassed its budget for road salt this year, spending $425,000 with a $374,000 budget. The department shifted resources so it did not have to request more funds for salt, equipment repairs or replacing snow plow blades. "We would say this is normal for how it used to be in Utah. We havent seen a year like this for about five years or so, but we certainly plan for them," Vogt said. She said the Public Services Department is in charge of plowing all the city owned streets, which it hopes to carry out in the first 36 hours after a storm. The department has 45 snow plows and crews that rotate in 12-hour shifts. This year during the largest snow storm, February 5-7, the Salt Lake Streets Division used 4,300 tons of salt and drove more than 16,000 miles to plow over 20 inches of snow in the valley and 36 inches in higher elevation areas. Although the official snow season for Salt Lake City has ended, Vogt says plow drivers are still ready to help clear streets if needed. Gleason said UDOT is also ready to plow snow on the streets. "Its one of the most important things we do as a department to make sure that our roads are maintained and plowed," Gleason said. He said as long as it snows, UDOT men and women will be plowing roads making sure people can get where they need to go safely. The department has 550 snowplows throughout the state and plans to spend about $1 million on each state-wide storm. Gleason said surpassing the budget is not uncommon the money spent this winter is similar to two years ago. However, last winter UDOT was under its budget for snow removal. On the same page is a regular series featuring Utah book clubs. Editor's note: If you have a book club and you are interested in being featured, please contact us at features@deseretnews.com. Please include your name, your contact information and one or two sentences describing your book club. LAYTON There are many reasons Alyson Farmer and others in her neighborhood love their Layton-based book club. Before her phone interview with the Deseret News, Farmer emailed other members to compile a list of their favorite things about book club. When asked what they love about the club, members of this Layton-based book club wrote that some of their favorite aspects are: 1. They stay on topic: "We can discuss books for hours," Farmer told the Deseret News. 2. They read a large variety of books. 3. They have men and women in our book club. 4. "Every August we have a book-themed dinner," Farmer said. "Sometimes we even will dress up and the food is based on the book. I think it's the highlight of the year for everybody." 5. Their annual Christmas party: "We play book-themed games and do a book exchange," Farmer said. "Every year, I make ornaments for everybody based on who's participated, so we all get one or two ornaments every year that are book-themed." 6. They've become good friends. Deseret News: When and how did your book club start? Alyson Farmer: It started as a way to get young moms out of the house, kind of an interest group, and then it's just evolved in the past 16 or 17 years. There aren't that many of us who have young kids (anymore). The group is just in our neighborhood. It's not an exclusive group, so we get new people. We have some men that come regularly as well. One used to come with his wife but she doesn't come as much but he still comes and he's been coming for years. DN: What are you reading right now? AF: We just finished reading "Why We Sleep: Unlock the Power of Sleep and Dreams," by Matthew Walker. It was great. We had an awesome discussion. DN: What book are you doing for your August party this year? AF: This year the book is going to be "Funny Farsi: A Memoir of Growing up Iranian in America," (by Firoozeh Dumas). I have not read it. I always wait until right before book club so I don't forget what the book's about to read them. So, I haven't actually read that one. I did make a list of a lot of the other ones that we've done. Last year we did "Chocolat," by Joanne Harris. And our pork was chocolate rubbed and all of our salad had little bits of chocolate pieces in it. The year we did "Harry Potter," (the host) had lights hanging up and hanging down. One of the ladies that comes is a ceramics teacher, and she made us all Harry Potter mugs. We did "Letters of a Woman Homesteader," (by Elinore Pruitt Stewart) and had all Dutch oven food and dressed up in clothes. We actually had a guest speaker at that one come. Probably our favorite one though was "The Miracles of Santo Fico," by D. L. Smith and had an Italian meal. That was super awesome. DN: What does a typical meeting look like? AF: Whoever hosts will be the one who leads the discussion. It usually starts with "what did you think of the book?" We'll all go around and talk about it. And (then) they'll ask questions. We've gotten lately where we're starting to have treats themed on the book. We did a book, "Finding Oz," (by Evan I. Schwartz) it's all about L. Frank Baum who wrote "The Wizard of Oz." We had a dessert based on every character in "The Wizard of Oz." It was amazing. It took a while to even eat the treats because it was just so well done. DN: Is there anything you've learned or gained from being in this book club? AF: I think these are some of my best friends. It's evolved into a really good group of friends. I think because we do talk about the book so much that usually we come home having learned something from the book. I think really good friendships have been the best thing, but also just even a greater love of books and literature and the power of books. DN: Do you have a favorite book to movie adaptation? AF: (The Netflix adaptation of) "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," (by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows). That's one that was (recently) recommended we read it years ago. (Also,) "Chocolat." I mean, a lot of us have seen the movie before the book. DN: If you could invite any writer to your book group who would you want? AF: Now, that is a hard question. Well, I might say Mary Roach but I don't know if my book club would agree with me just because her books are about disgusting subjects that she doesn't take too seriously and makes so interesting. I think a lot of them would say J.K. Rowling, but that's probably pretty common. Actually, I'm going to change my answer. Can I say Ruta Sepetys? If I were a writer, that's the kind of writer I'd want to be. She takes little-known facts about history and turns them into these just amazing stories. This Layton book club's recommendations: "WHY WE SLEEP: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams," by Matthew Walker Ph.D., Simon and Schuster, 368 pages (nf) "GULP: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal," by Mary Roach, W.W. Norton & Company, 352 pages (nf) "THE MIRACLES OF SANTO FICO," by D.L. Smith, Grand Central Publishing, 368 pages (f) "THE GRAND SOPHY," by Georgette Heyer, Sourcebooks, 384 pages (f) "A MILLION MILES IN A THOUSAND YEARS: How I Learned to Live a Better Story," by Donald Miller, Thomas Nelson, 257 pages (nf) "QUIET: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking," by Susan Cain, Penguin Books UK, 352 pages, (nf) "BETWEEN SHADES OF GRAY," by Ruta Sepetys, Penguin Random House, 384 pages (f) "GRIT: The Power of Passion and Perseverance," by Angela Duckworth, Simon and Schuster, 353 pages (nf) "THE NIGHT CIRCUS," by Erin Morgenstern, Penguin Random House, 528 pages (f) "GLOBAL MOM: Eight Countries, Sixteen Addresses, Five Languages, One Family," by Melissa Dalton-Bradford, Familius, 320 pages (nf) SALT LAKE CITY President Donald Trump didn't reference religion in his new executive order on campus free speech, but that hasn't stopped some advocacy groups from calling it a win for religious freedom. Supporters say the order, which bans colleges and universities from receiving federal research grants if they fail to promote free speech, will ensure that religious students feel safe sharing their views on campus. At the signing ceremony, Trump was joined by students who said they've felt pressured by their schools not to speak out against abortion or discuss their faith. "The real March madness? State universities that won't follow the (First) Amendment," tweeted the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty. "The White House (executive order) says they must do better. Agencies should ensure that any public schools discriminating against religious student groups are held accountable." The order will allow students to have the best college experience possible, said Mike Berry, chief of staff for First Liberty Institute, a law firm focused on religious liberty cases, in a statement. "President Trumps executive order ensures that college students are free from speech codes that stifle such debate, thwart religious expression, and limit education," he said. However, some school leaders and policy experts say reactions like these make too much out of a mostly empty gesture. The order does not outline what represents a free speech violation and instead reflects in general terms on the value of free inquiry. "This executive order is unnecessary and unwelcome, a solution in search of a problem," said Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education, in a statement. Campus free speech has been a contentious issue for decades, but debates over whether campuses should disinvite controversial and usually politically conservative speakers have picked up steam over the last two years. Chaotic protests in response to such guests have made national news, and other institutions have been criticized for cancelling speaker appearances in an effort to avoid the same fate. In 2018, 23 states, including Utah, debated 39 bills aimed at reducing speech-related conflict on college campuses, according to a Deseret News analysis. These measures typically instruct university leaders to adopt new, stronger free speech protections and publish an annual report on speech-related campus incidents, such as cancelled speeches or times when a student was punished for handing out flyers with religious messages. Some include specific protections for religious or political student groups, ensuring they are treated the same as other groups on campus. "What we have tried to do through this legislation is promote the truth that both sides of any debate need to have their voices heard," said Jonathan Butcher, who co-authored one of the model campus free speech bills considered by state legislatures, to the Deseret News last year. In recent years, colleges and universities have also been sued over how they enforce the First Amendment. For example, last year, Becket filed lawsuits on behalf of two conservative Christian student groups at the University of Iowa. The groups had been kicked off campus for requiring leaders to affirm certain religious beliefs, such as that marriage should only be between one man and one woman. We will not stand idly by and allow public institutions to violate their students' constitutional rights. President Donald Trump Becket won the first of those two challenges last month, the Deseret News reported. Trump's order affirms that what the University of Iowa did was wrong, Becket said. "The (executive order) reinforces what (the University of Iowa) should have known all along. Of course, religious groups can require their leaders to be religious," Becket tweeted. The order, which was signed March 21, instructs federal agencies, including the Departments of Education, Energy and Agriculture, to "ensure institutions that receive federal research or education grants promote free inquiry." During the signing ceremony, Trump said it was aimed at ensuring students feel free to share their views. "We will not stand idly by and allow public institutions to violate their students' constitutional rights," Trump said when he signed the order, according to NPR. "If a college or university doesn't allow you to speak, we will not give them money. It's very simple." The order doesn't spell out how federal agencies should enforce these new guidelines, which is part of why policy experts like Mitchell are skeptical of its value. It also doesn't address what some campus leaders say is a bigger problem: Students' deteriorating interest in interacting with people who hold different views than them. "Students increasingly tend to congregate with people like themselves," said Geoffrey Stone, a law professor and free speech advocate at the University of Chicago, to the Deseret News last year. Student support for prohibiting certain offensive speech on college campuses is rising, according to a 2017 survey on the First Amendment and university life. In 2017, 29 percent of U.S. college students said it was more important for schools to create a positive environment by prohibiting certain speech than to create an open learning environment by allowing all speech, compared to 22 percent in 2016. These shifts should concern religious freedom advocates, since robust conscience rights depend on our ability to hear everyone's views and civilly disagree, said Robert George, who teaches jurisprudence at Princeton University, to the Deseret News last year. "We want to try to teach people that there's everything to be gained and absolutely nothing to be lost from listening to each other and engaging with each other, from recognizing our own fallibility and trying to learn from people, including people you disagree with," he said. SALT LAKE CITY A former engineer at a Utah aerospace manufacturing company has been ordered to repay about $60,000 after pleading guilty to a pattern of unlawful activity during his time there. Adam Beyer Corliss, 40, admitted to the charge, a second-degree felony, in January as part of an agreement with prosecutors. In exchange, 10 counts of communications fraud, also a second-degree felony, were dismissed. The company he worked for, Orbital ATK, was acquired by Northrop Grumman last year. Third District Judge Heather Brereton last month ordered Corliss to 18 months of probation and 100 hours of community service, court records show. The judge also ordered him to pay about $60,000 in restitution. Investigators said Corliss ran an employee benefits program that provided discount ski passes and other items, but he created false invoices. They alleged he did not ultimately buy the passes even though the company gave him roughly $40,000 to cover the cost. Corliss has no prior criminal history in Utah, according to a search of court records. Each year, 800 Utah kids under 18 become new daily smokers. Many others become hooked on e-cigarettes. At current smoking rates, 39,000 Utah kids who are alive today will eventually die from a tobacco-related illness. During the legislative session, lawmakers debated bills with the stated goal of protecting kids from a lifetime addiction. These bills missed the mark. One bill would have taxed just e-cigarettes without also raising the price of all other tobacco products. Another attempted to limit where some flavored tobacco products could be sold. House Bill 324, which ultimately passed, will raise the sales age for tobacco products to 21 but sacrifices the authority of local governments to protect their citizens health. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network supports raising the sales age for all tobacco products because it promises to curb tobacco use and protect kids. Many kids become daily smokers between ages 18 and 21, and the longer we keep them away from tobacco products, the less likely theyll start. In fact, 95 percent of adults who smoke begin before age 21. We opposed House Bill 324 because it addresses the right problem the wrong way. HB324 unfairly punishes youth for purchasing and possessing tobacco, rather than focusing on strong enforcement and compliance by retailers. Laws focusing on the purchaser rather than holding retailers accountable dont reduce tobacco use. It takes the spotlight away from Big Tobacco, which preys on youth to replace the adults who are dying from their products, and shifts blame onto the victims our youth. The bill also exempts active duty military, their spouses and dependents. The U.S. Army Surgeon General says soldiers who smoke are less combat ready and take longer to heal. Tobacco use among active-duty military has enormous physical and fiscal impacts on troop readiness and reduces soldiers fitness. We should be doing everything to help members of our military and their families be healthy and ensure battle readiness. Lastly, HB324 blocks lower levels of government from passing laws stronger than state law. Many important public health policies are developed and passed at the local level long before state legislatures act. While states should set a minimum standard for public health protections, they should not prevent local governments from going above and beyond that minimum standard. The Utah Department of Health should monitor the impact of this bill closely and advise the Legislature to make changes if it fails to improve the health of Utahns. We wont realize if there are any benefits until 2021 because this legislation phases in the age increase over a two-year period. Moving forward, Utah lawmakers must focus on evidence-based policies that are proven to reduce tobacco use. These include regular and significant increases in the price of all tobacco products and fully funding our states tobacco prevention and control program. Utah can improve its tobacco taxes. Unlike cigarettes and other tobacco products, e-cigarettes are only subject to sales tax in Utah. We also have not raised our cigarette tax since 2010. ACSCAN supports taxing e-cigarettes at the same rate as other tobacco products. However, the debate on e-cigarette taxes must also include increasing the tax on all other tobacco products to achieve the desired public health impact and revenue gains. We know what works. Now, its up to the Legislature to pass and enact these proven policies. ACSCAN looks forward to working with lawmakers in the 2020 session to reduce the impact of tobacco in Utah. SALT LAKE CITY A Unified police officer accused of running over a woman lying down in a parking lot while responding to a call has a history of poor driving, according to police records. About 10:50 p.m. on March 5, a Unified police officer was dispatched to conduct a welfare check on a woman in the parking lot of a strip mall at 3304 S. 2300 East. The officer drove into the lot but did not see the woman, who police say was wearing dark clothing and lying in the middle of the road. Cindreia Simone Europe, 25, of Georgia, died. Europe had been living out of her car until it was recently towed. She had been spotted sleeping in various parking lots in that area in the week leading up to the accident. It was not known whether she died as a result of being hit by the car or if she was already deceased prior to police arriving. Salt Lake police are investigating the incident. As of Friday, officer Megan Franklin remained on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Franklin is new to the Unified Police Department. But according to documents obtained by the Deseret News through a public records request, she had resigned from the West Valley City Police Department after she was placed on a week's leave without pay for consistent traffic violations. "Your driving history reflects a poor pattern of attention to proper driving tactics and this has contributed to an unacceptable number of preventable accidents on your part," former West Valley Police Chief Lee Russo wrote in a letter to the officer. The letter further noted that the officer was involved in "an excessive number of preventable accidents" and that several disciplinary actions "appear to have little corrective effect in changing your driving behavior." Franklin, who had previously been suspended for 30 hours, was issued a 40-hour suspension without pay. In October 2017, the officer submitted her letter of resignation to the department. "It is not my first choice to resign, but I do it for the good of the department and myself," she wrote. According to disciplinary orders issued by West Valley City, the officer, while working for the department: Hit a rock with her patrol car while making a U-turn on April 10, 2010, causing $858 in damage. Was involved in an accident while making a U-turn on July 26, 2010. Was issued a letter of reprimand on March 22, 2012, for driving at least 90 mph in the express lane on I-15 in her patrol car and weaving in and out of traffic, even though she was not responding to a call. Hit a construction barrel with her patrol car on Aug. 29, 2013. Backed into a light pole on Nov. 8, 2014, while in her patrol car. On Feb. 24, 2015, the officer took her eyes off the road to look at her computer screen and rear-ended another vehicle that had stopped. The officer's head hit the windshield in that incident because she was not wearing her seat belt, according to a letter from the chief's office. For this incident she was given a 30-hour suspension. The officer was also disciplined for inadvertently leaving her body camera on her uniform while doing laundry, damaging the body camera "beyond repair," according to a letter from the chief's office. Other incidents include twice hitting a concrete curb with her patrol vehicle, and not showing up for a preliminary hearing in court after she was subpoenaed to testify. The incident that led to a 40-hour suspension occurred on May 6, 2017, when she drove over large rocks, causing damage to her patrol car. That was the "seventh preventable/at-fault traffic accident you have had in your eight years of service," according to the chief's letter. Unified police had no comment on Friday, other than to say they are waiting for the outcome of the investigation by Salt Lake police. SALT LAKE CITY Special counsel Robert Mueller has delivered to the attorney general his findings on the inquiry regarding President Donald Trump and Russia, The New York Times reports. Muellers investigation focused on Russian election interference, seeking to find out whether anyone tied to President Trumps campaign cooperated with Russia or not. The Mueller investigation has been a nationwide story and has often cast a shadow over President Trumps presidency for the first two years. Attorney General William Barr will now decide whether to share the report with Congress and the American public, according to The New York Times. What's next: Barr said in a letter to chairmen and ranking members of the Senate and House Judiciary Committees that he may send Congress a summary of Muellers findings by the weekend, according to CBS News. "The special counsel has submitted to me today a 'confidential report explaining the prosecution or declination decisions' he has reached," Barr said in the letter. "I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." On March 14, the House of Representatives voted on a resolution to make the reports findings public. Reactions: Trumps legal team of Rudy Giuliani and Jay Sekulow said in a statement: Were pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the Attorney General pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer submitted a statement, according to the Associated Press. Now that Special Counsel Mueller has submitted his report to the Attorney General, it is imperative for Mr. Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress." White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said it's time to wait on Barr. "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report." The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. Sarah Sanders (@PressSec) March 22, 2019 President Trump said earlier on Friday that the American people wont accept a Mueller report that taints him, the AP reports. SALT LAKE CITY Charges were filed Friday against a man in connection with an alleged drug-related robbery that resulted in two other men being shot. Randon Cummings, 18, of Salt Lake City, was charged Friday in 3rd District Court with two counts of aggravated robbery, a first-degree felony. On March 16, Cummings and another man attempted to rob a man who deals small amounts of marijuana, according to charging documents. The men agreed to meet at the Chelsea Park Apartments, 7351 S. Catalpa St. (440 West). Once there, Cummings and another man pointed guns at the alleged drug dealer who ran off. No one was injured, the charges state. The victim said he "sells small amounts of marijuana" and arranges deals using Snapchat, according to charging documents. The next day, Cummings and his friend arranged to meet with the victim again, using a different Snapchat account to set up the deal, the charges state. When they met at the same location, Cummings put the 18-year-old victim in a chokehold, according to the charges. The man was able to break free and hit Cummings with a skateboard, the charges state. That's when Cummings' friend fired at the drug dealer and another 18-year-old man, hitting them in the arms and leg, according to the charges. The injuries were not life-threatening, police stated. As of Friday, Unified police were still trying to identify the alleged gunman. SALT LAKE CITY Members of Utah's congressional delegation renewed their call Friday for the public release of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on whether the Trump campaign colluded with Russia in the 2016 election. Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah, tweeted that "early reporting appears to confirm what we've been saying for over a year: no collusion or conspiracy between Russia & the Trump campaign. The full report should be released to Congress & the American people as soon as possible." He told KSL Newsradio's Jeff Caplan that he's been looking at the issue for two years as part of the House Intelligence Committee and he would be "completely shocked" if Mueller found evidence of collusion or conspiracy. Stewart said "every word of this report" should be released to Congress and the American people. Theres very little in the report thats classified, he said. "This is a political, not a national security event were talking about here." Mueller has submitted his findings to Attorney General William Barr, who will review the report and create a summary document that will be sent to Congress and possibly released to the public. All four members of Utah's U.S. House delegation voted for the resolution last week calling for Mueller's findings to be made public. The Democrat-controlled House unanimously passed the measure. Rep. Ben McAdams, D-Utah, told Caplan on air, "Im glad to have this chapter over. I think, you know, theres important work in front of the Congress. I think its important that the public know what happened and that the facts are known, but theres important work for Congress and this isnt the only thing weve got to do." "In the meantime, I think the biggest takeaway for me from this report is my hope that whatever is known in the report, that the public is afforded the greatest degree of transparency possible." He said he feels the period of the investigation has left the country in "a holding pattern." Rep. John Curtis, R-Utah, said in a statement last week that the federal government has spent millions of dollars on the Mueller investigation. "Consistent with current law, I believe that when that report is finally complete, the American people deserve the utmost transparency about its contents, whether that information clears the Presidents name or incriminates him," he said. In a tweet Friday, Curtis added that he looks forward to reviewing the report. Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah, also voted for the resolution. A bipartisan bill has also been introduced in the Senate that would require the Mueller report to be made public, though Majority Leader Mitch McConnell isn't likely to allow to come up for a vote. Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, has said Barr should be as "transparent as possible" with the results of the Mueller investigation. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, did not immediately comment Friday. NORTH SALT LAKE It began in August with a tow-truck company that showed up at Walt Gilmore's North Salt Lake home. "He said, 'We're here to take a car from your driveway,'" recalled Gilmore. "I said, 'No, you're not.'" But that was just the beginning. For the next seven months, the parade of people showing up to Gilmore's house expecting to provide services has been nearly nonstop. "Electricians, plumbers, people wanting to trim my trees. Tow trucks are the biggest concern to us, he said. "Id have up to 20 people per day coming to my home offering services and telling me that I asked them to come." While some might think Gilmore is the victim of someone's ultimate prank, he said it's no laughing matter especially since not all of the people who are showing up are offering services or even have good intentions. "They have police records. Criminals. Felons. Active warrants for their arrests coming to my home. Theyre looking for drugs. Theyre offering prostitution. And its pretty concerning to me, my family, and my entire neighborhood that these folks are there, he said. "These are individuals who come to our home in the middle of the night 10, 11 oclock, 1, 2, 3 in the morning. Five-thirty this morning I had another one out there, I had to call the police." North Salt Lake police say they have never seen a stalking case like this one before. Todays technology allows him to be at my front door right now. And that is incredibly emotional for my family and me. Walt Gilmore "Its pretty vindictive in what theyre doing, said Sgt. Mitch Gwilliam. "Stalking is stalking. But this is stalking on steroids. Its pretty vicious." Police cannot comment much about the case, saying it's still an active investigation. The person responsible is spoofing numerous numbers or using a program that makes it look like a call is being placed by a different number other than the phone actually being used making the calls nearly impossible to trace. The stalker has also been sending services to Gilmore's house by spoofing text messages. Police are now using voice recognition programs for the calls that were recorded in an effort to positively identify the person causing the harassment. Gilmore said his family believes they know who is responsible. They believe it's a man who lives out of state and they have filed a civil stalking injunction against him which they say he continues to ignore while hoping that criminal charges can be filed. Court records say the suspected stalker lives in Hawaii. "This individual doesnt work. This is all he does, Gilmore said. "This is a stalking. This is an ultimate stalking issue. We know who the fellow is. A family member knows him but does not have any further interaction with this individual. "And this is his way of getting back at our family because we dont want to have anything to do with him." Stalking is stalking. But this is stalking on steroids. Its pretty vicious. Sgt. Mitch Gwilliam While Gilmore's family is dealing with the situation, he wants service providers to know that if they get a call for service in North Salt Lake, that they should first try to verify whether it's a legitimate call. Since the stalking began, police estimate that companies have lost a combined total of more than $20,000 in man hours and uncollected service fees. And that's something Gilmore wants stopped. He said one Utah County environmental cleanup company got a call on a Saturday from a man purporting to be Gilmore, claiming that his entire house was flooding. "This contractor in Utah County rounded up four of his crews, four different large crews and they ran up here from Utah County with four big trucks and got to my home, and its a scam. Theres nothing wrong with my home, Gilmore said. It cost the company an estimated $4,000 to round up the crews and make the trip all for nothing, he said. "Ive had people come down out of Idaho and provide services to my home, and this guy has pranked them, Gilmore added. The stalker has even sent pizzas to Gilmore's office in Salt Lake City as part of the spoofing scam. While the majority of people who show up at Gilmore's house have been understanding, he said the stalker has also taken to hiring people online using a specific website that lists people for hire, in order to spy on his family. Gilmore has caught people taking pictures of his house, looking inside his windows late at night, and sitting in their cars while parked in front of his house with the headlights off while talking on the phone, possibly with the stalker. The perpetrator will then contact a family member to describe what Gilmore's family is doing, just to let them know he's watching, he said. "I feel trapped in my home. I feel threatened. I feel as though this individual is stalking us even though hes several thousand miles away from us. Todays technology allows him to be at my front door right now. And that is incredibly emotional for my family and me. "My wife is scared to death constantly. My other family members dont like to go outside because they dont know whos coming. This is very threatening. And its not only threatening to my family but my entire neighborhood, Gilmore said. All of his neighbors are aware of the situation and help the family watch for strangers. "When theres a car that shouldnt be there, we call the police immediately, he said. And as of the end of February, officers had been called to the Gilmore home more than 80 times since November. And that number has grown even higher over the past three weeks. Oftentimes, those police visits have resulted in people with outstanding warrants being arrested. Gilmore has put a sign in his front yard to let actual services providers know that they are likely being pranked. A North Salt Lake police car is also now parked in front of his house around the clock. When Gilmore actually needs services for his house, he said he will contact people he already has relationships with. Until police can collect the evidence they need to issue an arrest warrant, Gilmore said he's not taking the situation lightly, and will continue to do all he can to keep his family safe, and try and warn service providers so they don't lose any more money. The event aimed to draw attention to pedestrian safety. On March 9, William Eric Moellmer, 51, of Kearns, was hit near the intersection. He was first hit by an SUV, and then by a Jeep, according to police. Both drivers stopped and cooperated with authorities. The incident was one of two fatal auto-pedestrian crashes in the city that day. Two men from Salt Lake City were crossing 3300 South near Main Street, in a crosswalk, when they were hit by a dark-colored Chevy Trailblazer, killing Michael Corby Westover, 42, of Salt Lake City, according to South Salt Lake police officer Gary Keller. The other man was critically injured. See the world through the eyes of award-winning photojournalists. Click through the gallery above to view the unique images our visual storytellers captured today. Follow the official Deseret News Instagram account for more photographs and videos from the staff. SALT LAKE CITY A group of key Wasatch leaders discussed recreation-related issues facing the Wasatch Front on Friday, highlighting the need for more funding. Dave Whittekiend, supervisor of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, talked about financial struggles the forest faced during the 24th annual Stegner Center Symposium, an event focused on challenges of recreation on public lands. There has been a 20 percent increase in site visits over the past five years, with 10.7 million visits annually and a 50 percent decrease in effective funding over the past 10 years, he said. The forest struggles to keep up with the growth and the lack of funding while striving to meet the needs of the public, he said. CEO of Ski Utah Nathan Rafferty examined the economic boost the ski industry brings to the area. According to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah, it's estimated that total ski and snowboard out-of-state spending in Utah is around $1.1 billion. Local and state tax revenue is $226.4 million and total jobs is 21,361 with labor income of $654.1 million. There were several questions from the audience about funding, specifically whether the canyons should implement a fee system, and how would that fee change the demographics of canyon visitors and impact accessibility? All four panelists said they don't want to alienate populations from accessing the canyons, but Whittekiend emphasized funding is desperately needed for Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Whittekiend emphasized the need to find a balance between the two. "We want to be able to provide the best quality recreation experience we can and the most sustainable resources we can for recreation that still allows people to be able to recreate out there, regardless of who they are or what their economic status is," he said. In the past, fees were proposed and the public was adamantly against it, he said. Carl Fisher, executive director of Save Our Canyons, said a recent survey the group issued showed that some people would be willing to pay around $40 to $60 annually for a pass to enjoy the Cottonwood canyons. Transportation was another hot topic panelists addressed, citing parking and waiting lines as issues. These problems reached a crisis point this year, noted Ralph Becker, executive director of Central Wasatch Commission and former Salt Lake City mayor. He said more federal legislation ensuring public lands stay public is another necessary step to address the issues facing the canyons. Increased use in the canyons makes it difficult to create sustainable plans for the area, Fisher said "We're not really concerned with any one activity," he said. "We're concerned with all of them." One big question from the audience was about the carrying capacity of the canyons how much use and visitation can the canyons take? "It's really difficult to assess because there's so many aspects to it," Whittekiend said in response. He noted that visitor experiences are "deeply personal" and vary based on the person. Whittekiend said the important questions are about resource depletion. "Are trails sustainable, is the recreation resource sustainable, are we moving wildlife out of an area, are we having trails that we cannot maintain, can we pump all the toilets that we have out there?" he asked. "And we're trying to answer those questions." Rafferty took a different approach to the question, not as focused on the environment. "The resorts are, in my opinion, the best equipped to accommodate great numbers of people," he said. "They have obviously the parking facilities, but they have the bathroom facilities and all these things in place to accommodate lots and lots of people. So in terms of where you want people to be in the mountains, it's a great place to put more people." Earlier in the discussion, Fisher said the ski resorts make canyons too accommodating and too comfortable, which plays a role in the overcrowding issue. "I personally don't go up the Wasatch Mountains to see parking lots I can go to Walmart for that," he remarked. In order to make the area more sustainable, behaviors need to change, he said. "If we don't have the proper framework in place in terms of management direction in law, that's going to be increasingly difficult over time," Becker said. Conserving the canyons is important to Jess Oveson, an audience member who's worked various jobs in the Cottonwood canyons over the past few years. "It's our home, it's the place where we go to recharge and to connect with our communities," she said. "It's those universal themes of solitude, community, wilderness and making sure that's something Salt Lake has to offer moving forward. A better educated public would help solve some of these issues as well, Whittekiend noted. It's expensive and time-consuming to fix damage such as littering, trail cutting and graffiti. "We really should be managing the trail systems and the resources and not fixing the damage that's out there," he said. SALT LAKE CITY Firefighters Friday evening worked to put out a blaze that started in the basement of a vacant building. The fire started in the building at 942 S. 200 West, Salt Lake firefighters said. It appeared to be an attic fire but as smoke billowed from the basement, crews took a defensive approach and fought the fire from outside the building, Salt Lake Fire Capt. Tony Stowe said. "We are defensive because we don't trust the integrity of the structure," he said. Firefighters Friday evening did not know exactly when the fire started or what caused it. It was extinguished within about two hours. While crews worked at the scene, Utah Transit Authority TRAX rails were blocked at 900 South and a bus bridge was established. PITTSBURGH On the one-week anniversary of the New Zealand attack at Christchurch Mosque, Jewish members of the Pittsburgh community were at the Islamic Center of Pittsburgh during Friday prayer to show their support. Its the first Friday prayer after the attack and we want to be there when the worshippers arrive and make them feel safe and know that we have their backs. This is how the faith communities roll in Pittsburgh, said Laurie Zittrain Eisenberg, a board member of the Tree of Life Synagogue before Friday prayer. In October, 11 people were killed at Tree of Life during a mass shooting that occurred during Shabbat morning services. It was the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in the United States in history. In response, Muslim Americans raised more than $200,000 through an online crowdfunding campaign to help families affected by the tragedy. Now, in response to the massacre in which 51 Muslims were killed at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, members of the Pittsburghs Tree of Life synagogue are returning the favor and have, to date, raised over $54,000 and hope to reach their goal of $100,000. The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh is also raising money for victims of the Christchurch attacks. We were touched by the worldwide support we received but particularly by the Muslim community in Pittsburgh. It was immediate. They told us they were heartbroken and appalled, offered to stand outside our synagogue so we felt safe and started fundraising for us. So when we heard about New Zealand, we had to be front and center, Zittrain said. Building bridges The recent tragedy in New Zealand happened on the heels of Minnesota representative Ilhan Omars comments about Israel, which sparked a national debate resulting in the passage of House Resolution 183 condemning hatred and intolerance of minorities, including Islamophobia and anti-Semitism. Omar, the first Somali-American Muslim congresswoman, has herself been the target of racism. Earlier this month, an anti-Muslim group WV Act for America put up a display at the West Virginia statehouse, including articles and documents with titles like Readin, Writin, and Jihadin, The Islamization of Americas Public Schools and The Four Stages of Islamic Conquest. Perhaps the most jarring part of the display was a poster showing the World Trade Center burning with the text Never Forget on the top of the picture and an image of Omar on the bottom with the words I am proof you have forgotten painting Omar as the other, anti-American and someone who should not be trusted. Feeding this narrative, Jeanine Pirro, a popular Fox News host, recently questioned whether the Congresswomans religious beliefs were antithetical to the Constitution and suggested that Omars faith may be the reason for her anti-Israel sentiment, perpetuating an age-old stereotype about hostility between Muslim and Jewish communities. The national debate frames the relationship between American Muslims and American Jews as fractured, but recent events paint a different picture. In the wake of the New Zealand shootings, Jewish leaders and communities across the country have shown their support to the Muslim community. In North Carolina, a group of Jews and Christians gathered in solidarity outside the Islamic Center of Asheville during the weekly prayer last Friday. Ginna Green, Chief Strategy Officer of Bend the Act, a progressive Jewish advocacy group, condemned the attacks, saying we are not safe unless were together. In New York City, Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum encouraged members of the Congregation Beit Simchat Torah synagogue to deepen their engagement with Muslim neighbors and learn more about Islam since Muslims are the first targets of institutional and individualized hate. In Austin, Texas Rabbi Neil Blumhofe led the nearly 400 audience members in song to close out the vigil held at St. James Episcopal Church. According to Muna Hussaini, the president of the board for Muslim Space and an organizer of the Austin vigil, there is a history of support between the two local communities. In response to Donald Trumps election in 2016, Matt Korn and Josh Frey, two gay Jewish men, founded a group called Muslim Solidarity ATX. In June of that year, when 49 people were killed in a mass shooting by a Muslim man at the Pulse gay nightclub in Orlando, the group made efforts to curb the backlash against Muslims for the attack. They had people show up outside mosques in Austin with signs of support and flowers even though the LGBTQ community were the victims. They were instrumental in providing solidarity and making us feel safe, seen and heard. Hussaini said. Favorable views A new study also confirms that American Jews and American Muslims have favorable views of each other. The survey from the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, or ISPU, reveals that American Jews and American Muslims have similar opinions of each other. In fact, they are far more likely to hold favorable than unfavorable views of the other. To create the report, ISPU interviewed almost 2,400 American residents from different religious backgrounds. The data shows that 45 percent of the Muslims held a favorable view of Jews and 53 percent of Jews held a favorable opinion of Muslims. When the attack occurred, the faith leaders were not Googling how to find each other. They have relationships and they have each other's phone numbers and thats why they could respond so quickly. Laurie Zittrain Eisenberg, a board member of the Tree of Life Synagogue Only 10 percent of Muslims held an unfavorable view of Jews and just 13 percent of Jews held an unfavorable opinion of Muslims. This may have something to do with the fact that the study also found that while roughly half of the general public knows someone who is Muslim, about 3 in 4 Jews know a Muslim. A 2018 study by Foundation for Ethnic Understanding, or FFEU, echoes the sentiment that gaps between American Muslims and American Jews are smaller than previously thought. The study found that almost three-quarters of Muslims who interact with Jews frequently say that Judaism and Islam have more similarities than differences and more than two-thirds of Jews who interact with Muslims say the same. Zittrain says Pittsburgh is a national leader when it comes to interfaith communities. They were able to pull together an event with Christian, Muslim and Jewish leaders the day after the New Zealand attack. When the attack occurred, the faith leaders were not Googling how to find each other. They have relationships and they have each other's phone numbers and thats why they could respond so quickly. In the days and weeks ahead, religious communities across the county will focus on healing and building strong relationships that will persist, not only in the bad times, but also in the good. And according to Hussaini, the thread of empathy that runs through all of our faiths will be the guiding light in the process. HARRISVILLE, Weber County Police shot a man who wouldn't comply with orders after they were called to a home on a report of a domestic disturbance. Just before 5:30 a.m. on Saturday, police were called to apartments at 2510 N. Charleston Ave., where they say they were confronted by a man holding a knife in each hand. The man, whose name was not released, "advanced on the officers despite repeated commands to stop," according to Harrisville Police Chief Maxwell Jackson. He said police deployed a Taser, but it did not hit the man and "there was no time to try another time." Three police officers from three agencies, including Harrisville, Pleasant View and North Ogden, shot the man "multiple times" and in "relatively close proximity," Jackson said. The man was taken to the hospital in critical condition. Jackson said the man was arrested for "a similar confrontation" with police several months ago. He said family and friends will be interviewed during the ongoing investigation to "hopefully put some rhyme to reason to all of this." Lee Buchanan, who also lives in the apartments where Saturday's incident occurred, said the area is typically "very quiet." "It's really shocking to see something like this happen here," she said. "It's a really quiet neighborhood. I mean, we live next to fields and horses and that's why we like it." She did not hear anything happening, though some of the residents did and called police. "I'm hoping its a fluke," Buchanan said. The three officers involved in the shooting were placed on paid administrative leave during the investigation, which will be conducted by the Weber County Attorney's Office. A task force there will determine whether use of deadly force was necessary and if the man will faces any charges. Maxwell said there is a history of domestic abuse at the home. SALT LAKE CITY Attorneys have filed a formal grievance on behalf of two Hyde Park employees who quit their jobs after their supervisor pointed a gun at them during a meeting and was demoted, but was later reinstated to his position. According to the grievance provided Friday to the Deseret News, the decision to reinstate Public Works Director Mike Grunig came after a closed hearing during which his friend, a former mayor, defended him but the employees weren't present to share their sides of the story. Grunig's son-in-law, Councilman Mark Hurd, was also involved in the decision to reinstate him. The grievance filed Wednesday on behalf of Justin Bodrero and Kolby Christiansen who have both quit their jobs as a result of the incident seeks a new, fair hearing, as well as possible damages from the city. The men also ask the city to preserve all evidence in the matter. "Some of that will involve the employment of Kolby and Justin because we believe they were constructively terminated by the City Council's decision. None of them were comfortable working with or under Mike Grunig any longer," attorney Erin Byington explained. In the time leading up to Grunig pointing a 9 mm handgun at three men during a meeting in November, the men had noticed he "doesn't seem to be the same person" and "seem(ed) paranoid about a lot of things," according to the grievance. Before the November incident, one of the employees reported Grunig "took him out for a drink during work hours to quiz him about co-workers and (was) overly concerned about what others are doing than safely completing the job at hand." The men told Mayor Sharidean Flint about the gun incident in late January after Grunig allegedly pulled an unholstered handgun out of his pocket and placed it on another co-worker's desk. They said they were scared for their safety and feared retaliation. The men, all familiar with guns, had never experienced something like the incident in November, they said. "The delay in reporting this incident only legitimizes the fear of these men. Grunig has a history of holding grudges, continually taking jabs at employees he does not care for, and making the situation hostile until the employee gets fired or quits," attorneys wrote. According to Bodrero, the men waited because "we did not think anything would be done to correct this problem because of all the friends he has on the council and the friendship he has with the mayor, he has gotten away with some big lies and things in the past." After Bodrero, Christiansen and a third employee gave their reports of the event to North Park Police Chief Steve Milne, Flint demoted Grunig and cut his pay, finding the incident negligent on Grunig's part. But Grunig appealed the decision, and the City Council decided in a closed hearing to reinstate him with back pay for the time he worked with a pay cut, deciding that his actions were offensive but did not institute a threat. He was instead suspended without pay for six days. The problem with that decision? According to the grievance, Bodrero, Christiansen and the other employee were not asked to tell their sides of the story during the hearing with the City Council. Instead, Grunig defended himself with former Mayor Bob Christensen "to bolster him at his appeal, though Christensen was not a witness, held no official capacity, and was improperly allowed to attend in the closed sessions." Bodrero and Christiansen had never been given a full Hyde Park City Personnel Policy Manual and did not know their due process rights, the grievance states. Additionally, council members who are friends with Grunig including his son-in-law, Hurd did not recuse themselves from the decision, attorneys said. That is in conflict with Utah anti-nepotism code that restricts what role public officers can play in making employment decisions regarding family members, according to the grievance. The police chief also never made an official police report, attorneys stated, and evidence wasn't turned over to the county attorney's office. But now, Byington says, the Cache County Sheriff's Office is investigating the case and will interview the men on Monday. The office is then expected to submit a police report to the Cache County Attorney's Office to screen for possible criminal charges. Though attorneys are considering a lawsuit, "We don't want to put the cart before the horse," Byington said. "We'd rather work through things with the city, make sure that local government is functioning the way it should be. That's more what this is about, is the city government acting within its authority and functioning as it should be under Utah law." She said Bodrero loved his job and has indicated he would like to return. But Christiansen is "more hesitant" as the incident has impacted him "the most, emotionally." According to Byington, "We believe that most of the people in the city government are good people trying to do the right thing and that this was just a critical error. So that's what this is really about." In a letter from the mayor to Grunig, Flint referred to Grunig's version of the incident. "You acknowledged you wanted to show off your new gun with its laser, you drew the gun with an opened slide and no magazine, and pointed the gun/laser around the room before pointing it briefly at Justin's crotch. You denied making a comment about a green dot or pointing the gun at Justin's chest or at any of the other employees present. You stated that this was a mistake that you deeply regret and have been humbled over," Flint wrote. Correction: A previous version identified Hyde Park Councilman Mark Hurd as Mike Grunig's brother-in-law. He is his son-in-law. PROVO Brigham Young University has filed an appeal and intends to fight the Utah Department of Public Safety's decision to decertify the school's police department. The school contends that the grounds for its unprecedented decertification "are factually and legally baseless," according to a 29-page letter addressed to Utah Public Safety Commissioner Jess L. Anderson that was made public Friday. "DPS has acted outside the scope of its authority and has violated BYU's rights in numerous ways," the letter, written by BYU general counsel Steven Sandberg and attorney James Jardine, states. "The statutes and regulations relied upon by the commissioner do not give DPS the authority to decertify an entire police agency for the acts or omissions of a single officer." BYU contends it was under secrecy orders from an unnamed judge as part of a State Bureau of Investigations inquiry into a former officer's alleged misconduct when the state filed official records requests for emails and other information regarding the case that BYU did not comply with. The Department of Public Safety believes that BYU police did not conduct its own investigation into the misconduct in which an officer is believed to have accessed records from other Utah County law enforcement agencies and shared that information with the BYU Honor Code Office. BYU police also did not respond to court orders, or a subpoena for an internal investigation, the state alleges. Anderson also says that the university didn't follow the state's open records laws that all other Utah law enforcement agencies are subject to. The contention stems from a formal Government Records Access and Management Act request for documents by the Salt Lake Tribune regarding rape allegations made by a 19-year-old student in 2016 that went unanswered. BYU, which is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, argued at the time that it is a "privately funded, managed and operated police department within a private university." University attorneys contended the "stated purpose of GRAMA is to allow access to certain government records held by governmental entities not to allow access to private records of private institutions such as BYU, or internal departments of private institutions, such as university police." A judge ordered BYU to release the records and the school has appealed that decision to the Utah Supreme Court. The Utah Legislature also recently passed a law clarifying that law enforcement agencies at private institutions, as well as public, are subject to state public records laws. BYU officials said they supported the bill. The university contends in its appeal sent to Anderson that its police force is "necessary for the safety and welfare" of its 33,000 students, 5,000 staff and countless visitors to the campus. "During its entire existence, University police has protected students, employees, and visitors without public funding, and at considerable expense to BYU," BYU's response to the state notice of its intent to decertify says. Sandberg and Jardine contend that BYU has not been sanctioned by the state in its nearly 40 years of existence and has fully complied with various investigations into the officer's alleged misconduct and therefore doesn't deserve to be decertified. They believe Anderson's "threat of decertification" is a ploy to conduct "a third, even more expansive, inquiry into alleged misconduct related to access and dissemination of records." If the department doesn't withdraw its intent to decertify, the attorneys say BYU will pursue legal action, as it believes the Utah Department of Public Safety, and Anderson, who made the call to decertify BYU's police force, is "overstepping" its authority. BYU asks in the letter that any official decision on the agency's certification process not come from Anderson, but a more neutral third-party official. Public safety officials said the decision to decertify BYU police was reached after three years of review. The department remains an active police force until Sept. 1 while BYU appeals the decision. Correction: A previous version misspelled BYU general counsel Steven Sandberg's last name as Sandburg. SALT LAKE CITY For Utah Democratic Party Chairwoman Daisy Thomas, the decision by lawmakers to pay for a 2020 presidential primary on Super Tuesday is almost too good to be true. "It'll mean rainbows and unicorns at this point. It will be wonderful to have the state stepping up," Thomas said, recalling 2016's party-run caucuses where Utahns lined up for hours to vote their preferences for president. "It is something that I think the state should be handling," she said. "Just functionally, it's going to be run more smoothly and professionally. Hopefully, we'll reduce not only the wait times but also the amount of frustration people felt." Especially in an election year that Thomas is counting on to energize Utah's Democrats, who hold only limited elected offices. There are more than two dozen Democrats either already in or seriously considering a White House bid. A few, including Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julian Castro, have already made stops in Salt Lake City to court voters. Although Utah has not voted for a Democrat for president since then-President Lyndon Johnson in 1964, President Donald Trump's relative unpopularity in a such a strongly Republican state offers them some hope. "I love that there's so much energy," Thomas said. Having so many potential Democratic presidential candidates is going to get voters "really excited because politics is very, very emotional right now, and it's exhausting." Democrats had little say when the Utah Republican Party chose to hold a presidential preference vote at their late March caucuses to boost interest in the meetings, leading the GOP-controlled Legislature to skip funding for that primary election. Both Republicans and Democrats ended up having problems accommodating everyone who wanted to participate in those caucuses and, in the end, fewer Utahns turned out to vote for their presidential pick than in previous primary elections. Sen. Curt Bramble, R-Provo, the sponsor of this session's primary election bill, SB242, wasn't going to let that happen again next year, even though there's not likely to be much of a Republican race with Trump running for a second term. "That's a rather myopic view of the world," Bramble said. "This was a collective effort. This was not a Republican initiative or a Democratic initiative. This was the state of Utah stepping up and filling an obligation to voters." The 2017 Legislature had already passed a bill mandating the state hold a presidential primary, but without funding, it would have to be part of the regular election-year primary in June. Bramble said he was encouraged by Trump's re-election campaign to push for the primary election and that neither Republicans nor Democrats wanted to wait until June because they would have lost delegates to their national conventions. A funding bill passed in the final hours of the 2019 Legislature contained $2.9 million for a primary, and SB242 spelled out the date of next year's primary election will be on the first Tuesday in March. That will be on March 3 in 2020, and what's known as Super Tuesday, the date the most states hold presidential primaries. Bramble said that joining with other states will increase Utah's profile in the presidential race. "I'm really happy that we've chosen Super Tuesday. It gives Utah a voice in selecting our president and, particularly as a Democrat, we're going to have some decisions to make," said the House sponsor of SB242, Rep. Patrice Arent. Arent, D-Millcreek, who sponsored the 2017 bill establishing the presidential primary, said lawmakers were looking beyond the next election. "My colleagues appreciate that this is an important part of our democracy." State Elections Director Justin Lee said next year's presidential primary should "definitely be a better voting experience" than 2016, when an election run by party volunteers was crammed into a few hours. "Holding it earlier in the year will certainly make the results of the presidential primary, whatever they may be, more interesting and kind of put us on the map nationally," Lee said. He said that could mean a repeat of 2016, when hotly contested races for both the Republican and Democratic nomination drew nearly every major candidate to Utah before the caucus vote. Because presidential candidates seeking a spot on next year's primary ballot in Utah must declare their candidacy between August and December, Lee said the 2020 election will heat up much sooner than usual. Outgoing Utah GOP Chairman Rob Anderson said the Super Tuesday primary will bring more attention to the state, but for Republicans, may not have that much of an impact. "It drives some heightened participation," Anderson said. "Not that it will affect this (coming) year much, which might be a typical coronation for an incumbent president, but in four years, 2024, it might spark more interest and more involvement." Chris Karpowitz, co-director of BYU's Center for the Study of Elections and Democracy, said even though Utah "is unlikely to be the pivotal state on the Democratic side" in the general election, it has a part to play in the primaries. Given the growing Democratic field of presidential contenders, Karpowitz said "any opportunity for a candidate to gain some traction and to record a win will be helpful for that candidate," including in a reliably Republican state like Utah. "Utah is not large enough to play a major role here, but small states can play an important role early on in winnowing the field and sending a signal to other states about who's viable and who's not," he said. For Utah Democrats, Karpowitz said the presidential election can fuel momentum in other races in the state. But whether the race has the impact on how Utah Democrats do in 2020 will depend on who the party ends up nominating. The big winner of the 2016 Democratic caucus vote in Utah, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, a self-described Democratic socialist, lost the nomination to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton but is running again. Karpowitz said Sanders or another of the progressive Democratic candidates would not be the best choice to help win over voters in the general election, including those who may be considering straying from Trump. "A moderate Democrat who can articulate some sensible reasons for independent and even some moderate Republicans to take a second look would be a very good thing for the Democratic Party in the state of Utah," he said. Thomas, an organizer for Sanders' campaign in Utah in 2016, said she's neutral this time around as the Democratic chairwoman. All of the Democratic presidential contenders have supports in Utah, Thomas said. "Our Democrats are a very wide base, but we have certain issues we definitely want paid attention to," she said, citing issues the party has fought for including the full Medicaid expansion approved by voters but modified by the Legislature. "I want to make sure that the presidential candidates, when they're coming out here to seek our votes, that they're giving us time and attention," Thomas said, "and not just waiting for us to write checks." SALT LAKE CITY The University of Utah will honor Robert Archie Archuleta, May Farr and Gary L. Crocker with honorary doctoral degrees during its 2019 commencement ceremony May 2. Our honorees have touched the lives of thousands of people through their commitment to public service, said Joe Sargetakis, chairman of the U. board of trustees honors committee. They also have been unwavering in their support of the university, helping the U. in its mission to serve the state as the University for Utah. Honorary degrees are awarded to individuals who have achieved distinction in academic pursuits, the arts, professions, business, government, civic affairs or in service to the university. The Honorary Degree Committee, which includes representatives from the faculty, student body and board of trustees, reviews nominations and then consults with an advisory group of faculty, staff and administrators. Finalists are presented to the university president, who selects recipients. The degree will be awarded posthumously to Archuleta, who passed away unexpectedly in January. He was 88. Here's a brief biography of the recipients: Archie Archuleta, a U. alumnus, was a retired elementary school teacher and principal, former administrative assistant for minority affairs for Salt Lake City, and Latino activist and civil rights advocate. At the time of his death, he was past president of the board of trustees for Utah Coalition of La Raza. Archuleta served as president of the coalition for nine years, retiring from that position in 2010. From 1953 to 1987, he taught elementary school in the Salt Lake City School District. He laid the foundation for the alternative high school that later became Horizonte. He also was an adjunct professor of sociology at Salt Lake Community College. Archuleta continued to lecture on Mexican-American history and racism, sexism, ethnocentrism and civil rights after his retirement from the district. Archuleta served as the administrative assistant for minority affairs in the administration of former Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson. Throughout his life, Archuleta was an ardent activist on behalf of minorities, those in poverty, peace, economic advancement, civil rights, civil liberties and cultural issues. In the words of his family, he was tireless in his quest for justice. Archuleta served on numerous community committees and boards, including Centro Civico Mexicano, the Center for Documentary Arts, Salt Lake County Democratic Caucus, Concerned Citizens Committee, Alliance for Unity, Utah Aging Commission, Crossroads Urban Center, Utah Humanities Council and the Enriching Utah Coalition. He also mentored many U. students, helping them to develop their own voices as advocates and activists. He and his wife, community activist Lois Lucille Herrmann Archuleta, were honored with a Key to the City from Salt Lake City in 2018, and a scholarship has been established at the U. in their honor. The couple was married more than 60 years. Archuleta is survived by his wife, their five children and six grandchildren. Archuleta earned his bachelors degree from Idaho State University and an education specialist degree from the U. in 1982. May Farr, who earned a degree in nursing from the U. in 1952, has spent her life turning hardship into innovation and advocacy. Farr met her husband, James, at Salt Lake County General Hospital where she was working as a nurse and he was completing his training to become a pharmacist. He earned his bachelor and pharmacy degrees from the U. as well. They moved to California, where they raised their four children while pursuing health careers. When James Farr suffered a lung infection in 1963, he had to use awkward and uncomfortable respiratory equipment. The couple set about inventing a better alternative, investing their life savings to launch Med-Econ Plastics Inc., manufacturer of disposable respirator mouthpieces and, later, disposable oxygen masks, tubing and manifold setups. The Farrs sold the company nine years later, and in 1978 they launched a second medical equipment company, Airlife Inc. It was later sold to American Hospital Supply Corp. As the family enjoyed entrepreneurial success, they were dealt serious health challenges. Their daughter had cancer. James Farr was diagnosed with leukemia, which took his life in 1982. A few years later, the Farrs' son was diagnosed with catatonic schizophrenia. Newly widowed, May Farr became a full-time caregiver for her son. She channeled her energies into advocacy, joining the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Farr helped found a chapter in Californias Inland Valley and was later elected to NAMIs California board of directors. In 1996, the San Bernardino County Supervisors appointed Farr to its Mental Health Commission, a position she still holds today. In 1998, she helped launch the countys first mental health court. Farr pushed for Californias Mental Health Services Act, which realigned tax dollars to provide behavioral and mental health services. As services were reorganized, Farr worked to ensure a state committee representing patients and their family members remained intact. Farr has received numerous awards for her advocacy of behavioral health care. She was inducted into the U. College of Nursings Half Century Society and is a member of the colleges Advisory Council. In 1972, the Farrs established a Presidential Endowed Chair in Environmental Law at the S.J. Quinney College of Law. After James Farr's death, the family made a sizable donation to expand Northridge Hospital Medical Center, which named a new tower in his honor. The U.'s School of Medicine and College of Nursing also have received donations from the Farrs. Gary Crocker is president and managing director of Crocker Ventures LLC., a privately held life science investment firm that funds biotechnology and medical device companies. He also serves as chairman of the board of both Nexus Orthopedics and publicly traded Merrimack Pharmaceutical, which he joined as a board member in 2005. He is founder of Research Medical, a manufacturer and marketer of specialty cardiac catheters and related medical devices used in open heart surgeries. Forbes recognized the business as one of Americas Best 200 Small Growth Companies for six consecutive years, and it generated more than 20 percent average annual growth in sales and earnings. Crocker sold the firm in 1997 to Baxter Internationals Edwards Life Science division in a $236 million acquisition, which at the time was the largest medical device merger in Utah history. Earlier in his career, Crocker was vice president of business development and director of marketing for Sorenson Research. He negotiated the 1980 sale of the firm to Abbott Laboratories. He also served as an internal strategic analyst for Baxter International. Crocker currently serves as the chairman of the U.s Center for Medical Innovation and on the boards of the Sorenson Legacy Foundation and Utah Symphony/Utah Opera. He formerly served on the U.'s board of trustees. He and his wife, Ann, donated funding in 2001 for the Crocker Science House, which provides housing for science honors students, and a scholarship program for science interns. In 2010, Gary and Ann made the anchor donation for the Crocker Science Center at the U., which opened in April 2018. The Crockers are the parents of seven children. Crocker earned his bachelors degree and an MBA from Harvard University. Tracey Davies, President of Money20/20, and founder of the Rise Up initiative, outlines the five ways the program empowers women at work as the initiative comes to Singapore. I have always been a hopeful optimist about the trajectory of women, but as the number of women reaching the top just hasnt made the progress I expected, I have become much less accepting of the status quo. How can it be that we still arent seeing faster progress for women across the world and in every industry? And yet, in the past 12 months it does feel like we are finally seeing an attitude shift, even if it is not yet the big change needed to truly unlock the talent the financial services industry needs. We have seen new laws on female board representation and governments and regions legislating that companies must publish detailed comparisons of gender pay data. And I am delighted to see many organizations - including PayPal and Accenture - publishing clear targets for inclusivity- not just guidelines or goals but tangible targets to be hit. The facts are simple and clear. Report after report from esteemed and respected sources globally has confirmed that diverse businesses are happier, more profitable and more successful, yet we still see a substantial gap in all forms of diversity. In 2018, I launched Rise Up at Money20/20 in Las Vegas. Rise Up is a curated leadership academy for aspirant female talent in our industry. It is a 4-day program in personal leadership and development. It tackles, briefs and equips women in a world where getting seat at the table in some companies remains challenging, and it helps women who, more than ever, want to be connected to women just like them to form supportive, connected networks. In the U.S., only 27.8 percent of senior level positions in the financial services industry are held by women, according to Mash & McLennan Companies. The figure drops to 19.8 percent when analysing board positions and plummets to 1.4 percent for female CEOs. In Asia, there are huge disparities on gender inclusivity. The recent INSEAD study of 1557 of the largest listed companies across 20 Asian countries highlighted that women occupy just 12.8 % of board seats across Asia. There are substantial differences across the region - Australia and New Zealand lead with 24.7% and 21.7% respectively - whereas Taiwan, Japan and South Korea range between 2% to 7%. The global financial service industry is undeniably undergoing massive change. There really is a money revolution, with many predicting that the next 5 years will unleash more seismic shifts than the previous 5. The industrys needs are changing rapidly and it is thirstier than ever for innovation, creativity and leadership talent. This is why it is so vital that we unlock all available talent to support the incredible growth opportunities in the sector. Its for these reasons that I am extending our highly successful programme Rise Up to Money20/20 Asia. Rise Up is not simply facilitating another conversation on gender imbalance, but rather providing a solution and steps to real-world action. We do this in five ways: We empower future female leaders by providing hands on advice from experienced leaders, of all descriptions. We outline the obstacles that women face and provide practical solutions for over-coming them. We help women to build and leverage strong personal networks that help open opportunities and provide support and resilience. We connect up-and-coming talent with experienced leaders in powerful combinations that are highly valued by both partners. And we deliver cutting edge thought leadership on where the industry is headed through Money20/20s privileged position at the heart of fintech. I am excited and eagerly looking forward to welcoming our first 2019 Asia Rise Up cohort to Singapore. May they go far. Tracey Davies is the Managing Director at Money20/20. Money20/20 is where the worlds decision-makers from across the Financial Services, Payments and Commerce community unite to grow their business, learn about the latest commercial models disrupting their value chains, create new partnerships and discover the future of money. On 19-21 March 2019, Money 20/20 Asia will take place at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. Youll get access to real-life case studies, insights, stories of successes and failures, workshops and more that will enable you to understand the ways in which you can evolve your business to grow across Asia and beyond. Find out more on https://asia.money2020.com/ Huaweis TVs are tipped to be unveiled in April and may feature a dual-camera for broadcasting or video chatting Highlights Huawei may soon unveil a range of TVs The TVs are tipped to be unveiled in April Huawei may soon unveil a range of televisions. According to Android Headlines (via Chinese news outlet, Jiemian) the company is expected to launch the TVs sometime in April. As per the report, the TVs will be more like a hub with a focus on gaming and social features. Further, it is also tipped to come with a dual-camera setup. The report notes that initially, Huaweis TVs will be available in two options, namely a 55-inch model and another 65-inch model. The 55-inch model is said to be manufactured by BOE, while Shenzhen China Star is said to be the manufacturer for the 65-inch model. The cameras will most likely be used for video chatting or broadcasting yourself on the internet. However, it does beg the question of privacy. Huawei is no stranger to controversy and United States of America is seeking to ban the sale of its products in North America. The US Government claims that the company has been spying on US citizens on behalf of China. Huawei has denied these allegations and plans to sue the United States for banning its products. The Chinese company claims that the ban is unconstitutional and that the US Congress has failed to produce any evidence to support its restrictions on Huawei products. OnePlus also plans to launch its own TVs soon. Details about the TVs are not yet known, but last year, the company asked its fans to name its TVs. OnePlus has not said when it plans to launch its TVs, but it should do so sometime this year. Sinn Fein MEP Matt Carthy is holding a Brexit Day event in Donegal next Friday, the day the UK had been due to leave the EU before it was delayed this week. The event entitled Brexit: Whats next?, will take place in Dillons Hotel, Letterkenny at 8pm. The MEP said there remains huge uncertainty about what will happen. March 29th is the original Brexit date. So it makes sense that we would hold a public meeting on that date in one of the regions that has most to lose from a bad Brexit deal. The fact that there remains huge uncertainty about what will happen is symptomatic of the absolute chaos in the British Parliament and particularly their cavalier attitude to Ireland. Farmers and other businesses in Donegal and in other areas along the border dont know what impact Brexit will have other than knowing there is no such thing as a good Brexit. Carthy again reiterated that the backstop is the basic minimum acceptable to the people of Ireland. The backstop remains the least bad option but even if the withdrawal agreement is adopted it will still leave many challenges for Ireland. Therefore this public meeting in Donegal will be an opportunity to provide an update on whats happening with Brexit at that stage. It will also be a chance to discuss how we can deal with all of the potential scenarios in order to protect our communities, farmers, businesses and workers. We will also discuss the issue of Irish Unity recognising, of course, that Brexit has highlighted the failure of the partition of our country in very stark terms. I would encourage people from Donegal and neighbouring counties to join the conversation in Dillons Hotel in Letterkenny on Brexit Day next Friday evening, March 29. A public march about the future of St Joseph's Hospital in Stranorlar is taking place this afternoon. The march will begin at the community hospital and continue towards Jackson's Hotel where a public meeting will take place at 2.30pm. Father John Joe Duffy, who is the Chairperson of the Save our Hospitals campaign, has urged as many people as possible to take to the streets this Saturday. Huge numbers of people came out to march three years ago in efforts to secure the future for the facility. Fr John Joe Duffy said: We demand that our hospital, its residential unit, is maintained and investment made to bring it to the standard that will future proof it for generations to come. We want care for our loved ones within the community and nothing is going to stop us this time. The curate, who spent a number of years working in the Twin Towns, said that the time has now come for action. He said that people can save the hospital in Stranorlar: The people can save St. Josephs Hospital, Stranorlar by putting shoe leather on the streets of the Town Twins to waken the politicians into upping their game to save our Community nursing and residential unit. He said that promises made to the committee have been broken and he feels that it is now time to make the government accountable. He said: Time for the arrogance to end and the time has come to stand with the people. Fr Duffy said: Please support the elderly and vulnerable. Let everyone from every house please take to the streets to secure the right for people to be cared for in their own community. Give one hour of your time in order to save our community residential nursing unit. A bus will run from the car park at Jackson's Hotel to St. Joseph's in Stranorlar from 1pm on Saturday. 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. By Marlene Cimons Neil Pederson's introduction to tree rings came from a "sweet and kindly" college instructor, who nevertheless was "one of the most boring professors I'd ever experienced," Pederson said. "I swore tree rings off then and there." But they kept coming back to haunt him. As a future forest ecologist, he needed to learn more about the history of forests. So he read countless articles in graduate school extolling the importance of tree rings in unraveling a forest's past. Ultimately, "I fell in love with the beauty and wealth of information found in tree rings," he said. "Since then, tree rings have revealed to me the absolute resiliency of trees and forests. I'm hooked." Today, he and his colleagues are using the data inherent in these ancient sources of nature to better understand the impact of climate change and carbon dynamics on forests, all the more valuable because data from long-lived trees can reach back decades, even centuries. This is far longer than modern satellite imagery, carbon dioxide measurements, and computer models, whose high-tech information gathering only stretches back about 30 years. "What tree rings can do is enhance those records," Pederson said. "The satellite record represents a small portion of the life of a tree, let alone the 'life' of a forest. Further, it only captures the weather 'norm' for a region and, as we are learning, climate varies over time. The weather norms or averages on your nightly weather reports are based on 30-year means. So, while satellite records are good at covering space, they might be limited in what they can tell us about forests due to shortness of these records." Scientists sampling tulip-poplar at the Black Rock Forest in southern NY. Neil Pederson / Harvard University Pederson, now a senior ecologist with Harvard University's Harvard Forest, a 4,000-acre research site, along with Laia Andreu-Hayles, an associate research professor at Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, and Mathieu Levesque, research leader of the forest management group at ETH Zurich, analyzed tree rings to determine if the information they gleaned matched the accuracy of high-tech equipment. They wanted to know whether the rings could serve as a proxy for learning more about carbon storage and climate change in forests over the long-term, and found that they could. Forests serve as important carbon "sinks," absorbing planet-heating carbon dioxide that has been released into the atmosphere by the burning of fossil fuels. But little is known about exactly how much carbon is stored in forests now, or in the past, and scientists are only in recent years learning about the past effects of climate change. The scientists examined ring samples from two widespread species tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) and northern red oak (Quercus rubra) growing in three climatically different regions of the eastern U.S., then analyzed the carbon and oxygen molecules or stable isotopes stored in them. They compared them to estimates obtained from satellites, and found strong agreement each year, and over time. No trees were destroyed to obtain the rings, by the way. Rather, scientists remove an increment core for each sample, each slightly narrower than a pencil. "Our study is the first to compare stable isotopes from tree rings with the latest generations of productivity estimates from satellites," Levesque said. "We took advantage of the newly developed satellite data, and this is the main novelty of our study." Their findings appear in the journal Nature Communications. Flower of tulip-poplar, the tallest documented tree in the eastern U.S. Neil Pederson / Harvard University "Tulip poplar trees, one of my favorite trees, are highly sensitive to rainfall," Pederson said. "In fact, they are considered drought deciduous. (These are plants that drop their leaves during dry or drought periods.) During the drought in 1999 in the New York City area, some tulip poplars turned yellow in August and dropped many of their leaves due to the dryness of the year. In 2005, in Kentucky, after a drought in August, the three tulip poplars I walked by every day to work started to grow new leaves in September with the return of rain. I was stunned. These observations made me think this species might be a good candidate [to study.]" Tulip poplar is highly sensitive to the amount of water in the soil, Pederson said. Also, he added, "it is an important species for timber and ecology over a large portion of the eastern U.S. We [also] chose the stalwart, northern red oak, because of its different physiology, importance as a species, and its value as a study species in understanding forest productivity." Levesque agreed. "Both species are great to study," he said. "Their wide distribution in eastern North America and their sensitivity to climate make them ideal species for our research." Moreover, "annual tree rings act like a thermometer and rain gauge and record climate in a very good way," he added. The rings, in fact, revealed that access to water was the biggest influence in annual forest growth, regardless of climate. "These broadleaf trees need moisture to grow," Andreu-Hayles said. "Some people may think that in wet regions, moisture will be not important, but our study found that even in very humid time periods, as today, these trees are still sensitive to moisture variations. The stable isotopes measured in tree rings are highly sensitive to tracking moisture." Levesque agreed. "Moisture availability is one of the most important factors for temperate forest growth in the northeastern, southeastern and central U.S.," he said. "That does not mean more moisture [means] more growth, because too wet conditions can also be a limiting factor. By 'regardless of climate,' we simply meant that moisture was the main limiting factor for tree growth and productivity irrespective of the local climate conditions found at the study sites." Scan of the rings and wood structure of one of the tulip-poplar samples used in the study. Mathieu Levesque / Harvard University This is important because climate change has ushered in an era characterized by dramatic increases in extreme weather events, including prolonged drought, heavy precipitation and flooding and dangerous heat waves, thus more information about historic climate fluctuations could be useful in projecting future climate effects on forests. Experts regard the health of forests as a critical factor in mitigating carbon pollution. Pederson noted that droughts in the 16th and 17th centuries were believed to be far worse than those in recent centuries, but it could be that climate change by prompting more intense precipitation in some regions has made the earlier droughts seem severe in comparison, he said. "The important thing to remember, however, is even though it is expected to rain more in the northeastern and eastern U.S. in the future, the warming associated with climate change will increase evaporation and the drought stress on plants," Pederson said. "It is not clear what will happen." It's possible that as parts of the world become wetter, and warming reduces the overall amount of water in the region during the summer, it will worsen droughts, he said. Or it will become so wet that a rise in warming will balance the increase in precipitation, he said. Or if rain decreases the increase in warming will amplify the drought stress in trees, even if it doesn't seem as if the amount of available water has changed, he said. The researchers hope to expand their research, examining more trees and additional species, and to look further back in time. "This kind of work will be extremely important considering that the longest remote sensing data started in 1982, and trees can live centuries-long," Andreu-Hayles said. Pederson agreed. "These kinds of studies will provide considerable insight into how these trees will respond to climate and extreme climatic events We can learn a lot from the memories of trees," he said. Reposted with permission from our media associate Nexus Media. Michael Faraday Biography Michael Faraday was one of the greatest scientists of all time and yet he received little formal education - during his life he made many discoveries associated with electrical science and chemistry. Michael Faraday Biography Includes: Michael Faraday Discoveries & inventions Facts & quotes Called the Father of Electrical Engineering and the greatest scientist of his day, Michael Faraday came from a humble background and received little formal education. In his lifetime Faraday achieved a great amount in many spheres of scientific discovery whilst also being a brilliant and charismatic lecturer. Michael Faraday is best known for formulating the laws of electromagnetic induction, and laying the foundations necessary to make electric motors, dynamos and transformers. On top of this he devised the laws of electrolysis, was the first to liquefy chlorine, to isolate benzene and he also discovered magneto-optical effects. Through all of this he was a deeply religious and humble man whose scientific knowledge and religious beliefs were in harmony. With him coming from a humble background and receiving little education, the story of Michael Faraday's life shows how it is possible to achieve great things, even without a high class education. Statue of Michael Faraday outside IET, London, UK Faraday's Birth Michael Faraday was born on 22nd September 1791 in Newington Butts, an area now covered by the Elephant and Castle, just south of the River Thames in London. His father, James Faraday was a blacksmith from Westmorland but a few years before Faraday's birth he had moved to London. Faraday's father was also a member of the Sandemanian sect of the Christian Church, and this had a profound effect on Michael Faraday's adult life. Not only were the Sandemanians strict Christians, but they also encouraged their members to read - it was important to be able to read the Bible. Accordingly Faraday became an avid reader, a factor that enabled him to educate himself later. At school the young Michael Faraday only learned the rudiments of reading writing and arithmetic, and then at the age of fourteen in 1805, he was apprenticed to George Reibau as a bookbinder. Here he was able to read many books and improve his standard of education. He read many scientific books, and he also repeated many of the experiments on his own, even building his own electrostatic machine. He also joined the City Philosophical Society in 1810, the place where he was to give his first lectures. Aware of his need to improve himself, he persuaded a friend to tutor him in grammar for two hours a week, an arrangement that continued for seven years! In 1812, a customer who cam into the bookshop where Faraday worked asked him if he would like some tickets to listen to lectures by Sir Humphrey Davy of the Royal Institution - at the time, Davy was one of the world's leading scientists. He attended the lectures and took detailed notes, even binding them and sending a copy to Davy. This resulted in Davy asking Faraday to take notes for him after Davy had been after an experiment went wrong and he was unable to write for a short while. Faraday was so enthralled by all the scientific experiments that he started to experiment himself, building a voltaic battery and decomposing several salts in the manner that Sir Humphrey Davy had done. Later that year he applied to Davy for a position but Davy had no vacancies. However early in 1813 Davy's Chemical Assistant was involved in a fight in the main lecture theatre of the Royal Institution and was dismissed. Davy remembered Faraday and invited him in for an interview, after which he offered him the position. Initially Michael Faraday worked under Davy, and later under Davy's replacement, William Brande. However between 1813 and 1815 he accompanied Davy as his assistant on a scientific tour of the continent. As Britain and France were at war, permission had to be obtained from Napoleon himself. This granted they set off on their travels around Europe, visiting Paris, Italy, Switzerland, Athens and Constantinople. On their travels they met with Andre Marie Ampere in Paris and the ageing Alessandro Volta in Milan. On their return to England in April 1815 Michael Faraday resumed his position at the Royal Institution. Although the tour had been a great success in many ways, it had not all been enjoyable as he had been expected to be a personal servant for Davy and also his wife who did not treat Faraday particularly well. Turning to electricity In 1820 the Danish philosopher Hans Christian Oersted discovered electro-magnetism. He had shown that when an electric current was passed through a wire close to a pivoted magnetic needle, it was deflected, indicating that the current flowing caused a magnetic field to be set up. Faraday took an interest in Oersteds discovery because at this time, electricity was considered to be allied to chemistry. He made some further investigations. In one experiment undertook in 1821 he passed a current through a wire that was in the magnetic field from a strong horseshoe magnet and discovered that the wire moved. Although obvious today, this was a major milestone in the understanding of electricity and magnetism and brought him considerable renown. This meant the way was now open to create mechanical motion from magnetism and an electric current. After this Michael Faraday returned to his chemical researches and it would not be for another ten years that he would make any further contributions to electrical science. In 1823 he succeeded in liquefying chlorine, and then in 1825 he discovered a chemical he called "bicarbuet of hydrogen" but known today as benzene. He also spent many years making and investigating optical glass. Chemical representation of benzene that was isolated by Michael Faraday From the days when he had attended the City Philosophical Society, Faraday had always enjoyed lectures. He was also a very gifted lecturer himself, and he believed in sharing his knowledge and wonder of the science of his surroundings. Accordingly in 1826 he founded the Friday Evening Discourse, and later that year he commenced the Christmas Lectures. Both of these continue to this day, the Christmas lectures being televised. Faraday actively participated in both, giving a total of 123 Friday Discourses and 19 Christmas lectures. Whenever Faraday lectured, the auditorium was full, indicating his immense popularity and like many of his other achievements it was the result of much practice and effort. However it was recorded in one lecture that an elderly gentleman in the front row fell asleep and snored loudly. Faraday paused and some clapping gradually broke out. The elderly gentleman awoke and joined in the applause to everyone's amusement. Faraday then resumed his discourse. Electro-magnetic work resumes Although Faraday's work had focussed upon other researches, the idea of electromagnetism had never been far from his mind. Indeed his notes from 1821 contain the words "Convert magnetism into electricity", and he had periodically performed a few experiments during the following years, but without any success. Then in 1831 he completely focussed his efforts on electromagnetism. In just ten days he succeeded in discovering the principles of electromagnetic induction, although he refined the work for some years afterwards. Until this time, people had thought that a magnetic force could be changed into electricity. It was Michael Faraday who demonstrated that the magnetic flux around a wire had to change before any induced current flowed. Although Oerstedt and others had shown that an electric current could produce a magnetic field, Faraday was able to demonstrate the reverse where magnets in motion in the proximity of a conductor could produce an electric current. His most famous experiment consisted of a ferrite ring on which there were two separate windings of insulated wire. A battery was connected to one, and a galvanometer to the other. Only when the battery was connected or disconnected did the galvanometer deflect. In a second experiment Faraday placed a rotating copper disk between the poles of a large permanent magnet. He showed that a current could be obtained in a conductor that extended from the axis of the disk to its edge. In some experiments with static electricity he developed a similar idea of electric lines of force and he undertook many experiment's concerning dielectrics and non-conducting materials. Out of this work he developed the idea of what he called the specific inductive capacity, or what we know today as the dielectric constant. It was also during this period, 1832 - 1834, to be exact, that Faraday undertook his work on electrochemical action. He coined the words loved by schoolboys of electrode, cathode, anode and ion to name but five. The work on electromagnetism and electrostatics was at the forefront of his work for most of the time, and he put himself under considerable pressure to complete it. Unfortunately this took its toll on his health and coupled with the fact that he also became an elder in his church, there was a sharp decline in the level of his research work and his lecturing in the early 1840s. Work restarts Around 1844 Michael Faraday commenced another period of work. This was to be his last, and the main discovery was that he was able to rotate the plane of polarisation of light passing through some heavy glass that was in the magnetic field from a powerful electromagnet. When the electromagnet was turned on and off the state of the polarisation of the light changed. With these and other observations, Faraday delivered a major lecture in April 1846 entitled "Thoughts on Ray-vibrations". This set the basis for Faraday's theory of electromagnetism he developed in the following years. This work was later taken up by James Clerk Maxwell who developed his famous equations that describe electromagnetic waves which in turn lead to the physical discovery of radio waves. Faraday's final years In view of his tremendous contribution to science Queen Victoria, the British Monarch offered him a grace and favour cottage at Hampton Court in 1858 which he accepted. He was also offered a knighthood which he declined. With advancing age, ill health took its toll and he suffered from many of the issues associated with dementia. His powers of reasoning were not as good as they had been and he suffered from loss of memory. Realising that he could not keep up his original pace of work he began to retire from his many commitments from about 1860. Although still interested in science, he contented himself with a quieter life. However six years later in 1864 he was offered the presidency of the Royal institution. A humble man he was shocked that he would even be considered for the post and declined. Sadly, Faraday died three years later on 25th August 1867 and was buried in the Sandemanian plot in Highgate Cemetery alongside his wife Sarah. During his life he had turned down the offer of a place of burial in Westminster Abbey. An honour which is reserved for only the very greatest of people within British society - kings, queens and Isaac Newton is also buried there. Faraday remembered He is famous for the immense number of discoveries he made and their importance yet he was also humble, taking his Christian faith very seriously. In doing this he donated a portion of his income to the church and also spent time visiting the sick. He was also a warm character, but on some occasions he could be fiery. He generally kept his temper under control, channelling it into his work where it manifest itself in a truly remarkable level of output. He also had a good sense of humour. Once when he was explaining a discovery to Gladstone who was Chancellor at the time he was asked, "But after all what use is it?" Faraday quickly responded saying, "Why sir, there is every probability you will be able to tax it." Today Michael Faraday is fittingly remembered as a truly remarkable scientist. Working tirelessly on little more than a wooden bench with crude instruments he opened up many of the fundamental laws of electrical science. He also had the rare gift of true genius combined with the ability to describe his ideas clearly and to enthuse others. Fittingly the unit of capacitance is named after him as a tribute. The term "farad" was initially used by Latimer Clark and Charles Bright in 1861 as a unit of charge, and later as the unit of capacitance. Then the International Congress of Electricians officially adopted the farad as the unit of capacitance at their congress held in Paris in 1881. Today, Michael Faraday is remembered as a true genius - one of the great pioneers in science along with the likes of Newton and many others - a real achievement for someone with little formal education. More Famous Scientists in Electronics and Radio: Volta Ampere Armstrong Appleton Babbage Bardeen Brattain Edison Faraday R A Fessenden Fleming Heaviside Hertz Ohm Oersted Gauss Hedy Lamarr Lodge Marconi Maxwell Morse H J Round Shockley Tesla Return to History menu . . . Trial date set for man accused of indecently assaulting teenage boys A date has been set for a former staff member at an Isle of Man children's home accused of indecently assaulting teenage boys. Eighty-two-year-old Joseph Marshall denies seven counts of indecent assault against boys under the age of 16 at the Knottfield home during the 1970s and the 1980s. The trial will begin on 6 January at Douglas courthouse and is expected to last eight days. A final pre-trial review hearing will take place on 21 November. Blast in the chemical plant in eastern China kills 64 Another 94 people seriously injured, and resulting fire brought under control on Friday. The death toll from Thursday's explosion in a chemical plant in eastern China has risen to 64 while 94 remains in critical condition, said Chinese state media. 26 DEAD 617 INJURED Another 617 people were injured while 26 people who died have been identified, said state news agency Xinhua. The blast took place at a plant run by Tianjiayi Chemical in Yancheng. After the explosion, 176 fire brigade trucks and nearly 1,000 firefighters were dispatched to the scene while schools nearby were closed. People residing around the chemical plant were evacuated. Nearly 90 houses were damaged by the explosion. A fire that broke after the explosion was brought under control on Friday, state TV said. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the blast. EU ends summit after 2-day talks Top officials focus on the economy, relations with China, fighting disinformation. EU Council President Donald Tusk and EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker held a news conference following a two-day summit that focused on the economy, relations with China and fighting disinformation. "FAIR COMPETITION" Our aim is to focus on achieving a balanced relation, which ensures fair competition and equal market access, said Tusk, highlighting priorities for a summit with China next month. Tusk touched on the need for open and assertive trade policy and prepares the EU for increasing global economic competition. We want to reinforce European capacity to deal with technology theft and cybersecurity threats, and we look forward to the Commission's recommendation on the security of 5G networks, said Tusk. Juncker said: We have good relations between China and EU asymmetrical and this leads to imbalances, he said, adding that China is a partner and rival of the EU. Chinese markets are not sufficiently open to European products. Chinese markets exclude us to a great extent, Juncker added. France allows security forces to open fire at Yellow Vests 11 people killed and more than 2,000 injured in Yellow Vest protests which have dragged on for months. French security forces will be allowed to open fire if lives are threatened during the Yellow Vest protests to be held this weekend in Paris, according to media reports. SECURITY FORCES COULD OPEN FIRE Gen. Bruno Leray, the military governor of Paris, told Franceinfo radio on Friday the army will assist 5,000 police officials to ensure order during the protests. He said security forces could "open fire" should their lives or those of civilians are in danger. French police announced that no protests would be allowed in Champs-Elysees and the protestors would be kept away from the streets surrounding Arc de Triomphe boulevard. Last week in the protests, 192 people were arrested while 42 people, including 17 policemen, were wounded. Yellow Vest protests began four months ago as a reaction to rising fuel costs. However, the demonstrations later turned into anti-government riots. The protests have left 11 people dead and more than 2,000 injured, according to the French government. Some 8,400 people have been arrested for the protests and 2,000 sentenced to prison. The US sanctions Venezuela bank over Guaido aide's arrest Treasury chief Steven Mnuchin says BANDES being used by the Venezuelan government to move funds abroad. The US on Friday sanctioned a major Venezuelan bank in retaliation for the arrest of a senior aide to opposition leader Juan Guaido whom Washington recognizes as the leader of the crises-wracked country. REGIME INSIDERS HAVE TRANSFORMED BANDES The designation of Banco de Desarrollo Economico y Social de Venezuela, or BANDES, also includes four of its subsidiaries, according to the Treasury Department. "Regime insiders have transformed BANDES and its subsidiaries into vehicles to move funds abroad in an attempt to prop up Maduro," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said, referring to the Venezuelan president. "Maduro and his enablers have distorted the original purpose of the bank, which was founded to help the economic and social well-being of the Venezuelan people, as part of a desperate attempt to hold onto power," he added. HE SUPPORTED THE SANCTIONS DESIGNATION The bank's four subsidiaries that were also blacklisted include Banco Bicentenario del Pueblo, de la Clase Obrera, Mujer y Comunias, Banco Universal C.A; Banco de Venezuela, S.A. Banco Universal; Uruguay-based Banco Bandes Uruguay S.A.; and Bolivia-based Banco Prodem S.A. Guaido supported the sanctions designation in a Twitter post. Referring to the arrest of a senior aide by the Venezuelan government, Guaido said he will not allow them "to continue stealing our assets to finance the kidnapping of our brothers." "Everything outside our constitution will have consequences," he added. The penalties are retaliation for Venezuela's arrest of Roberto Marrero, Guaido's chief of staff who was taken into custody Thursday on terrorism charges.Guaido declared himself the country's interim president in January, insisting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro step down from power. The US and dozens of other nations have recognized Guaido as the countrys rightful leader as Maduro insists he is the target of a US-orchestrated coup. The political stalemate comes as Venezuela grapples with a worsening economic crisis that has led to widespread shortages of goods throughout the country and which has seen Venezuela's national power grid collapse for a week. Venezuela's economy has been in precipitous decline following a global downturn in the price of crude oil, the country's main export. Turkey, Russia, Iran, Cuba, China and Bolivia have maintained their support for Maduro. Turkish jets hit PKK terror positions in northern Iraq Air operation destroys weapon emplacements, shelters and ammunition depots in Qandil, Zap regions. Turkish fighter jets stroke PKK terrorist targets in northern Iraq, the Turkish Defense Ministry said on Friday. THE SHELTERS DESTROYED On Twitter, the Defense Ministry said that the air operation in Qandil and Zap regions destroyed weapon emplacements, shelters and ammunition depots used by PKK terrorists. In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US and the EU have been responsible for the deaths of nearly 40,000 people, including many women and children. The NDAs refusal to engage in argumentative politics results in the violation of democratic norms. It does not bear emphasising that the very acts of protests and dissent by the marginalised groups who want to lead their lives with security and dignity are indeed the ones that promise to uphold the democratic norms and enrich the democratic content of the Indian nation. These protests are inherently democratic inasmuch as they are aimed at seeking freedom from poverty, unemployment, rural distress, anxiety, fear, and frustration. The content of these protests is persuasive and deliberative or argumentative. The arguments in the case of the common people may not necessarily originate from written texts, but flow essentially from the necessity that underlies the truth. This necessity can be, for example, that of getting employment, howsoever dangerous, archaic, and obnoxiously alienating it may be. Most of the members of the Valmiki community are forced to get down into manhole to clean it, such is their helplessness. It has to be understood, first in terms of the non-availability of decent work, and second as the fear of losing even such a job to others. Even the distress migration of footloose labour is a forced move in any direction that will give them any kind of work. Whichever be the ruling party at the helm, in order to guarantee freedom to its citizens, it is duty-bound to minimise if not totally remove the conditions that entail distress, anxiety, and frustration. Any government that claims to be committed to ensuring freedom to its citizens and upholding democratic norms, cannot seek to be exempted from taking part in arguments about its direction and functioning. A democratically formed government must be enlightened enough to see an element of rationality in the argumentative mode. Engaging with an argument promises to make its claim for electoral support stronger when it is approaching voters. The unilateral defence of its success in fulfilling its promises or riding on the success of the nations defence forces results in an unreflective endorsement of the government, despite its failures in many crucial spheres, because it has been reached by avoiding arguments. The main question that we need to ask is: How much, during the last five years, has the central government led by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) sought such an exemption from argument that is at the core of deliberative democracy? Is not this government then a free rider of democracy? The economic power wielded by tech giants has been aided and abetted by the lax enforcement of antitrust regulations by the United States. It has allowed them to create an almost impassable moat around their businesses, while being able to bully, browbeat, and buy out any competitors who look remotely threatening. Calls by politicians to break up these tech giants are more than timely and need to be taken seriously by regulators across the world. The United States (US) Democratic Party presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren made a radical proposal recently. If elected, she would use the US Department of Justice (DOJ) to break up American tech giants such as Google and Facebook (Warren 2019). Fuel was added to the fire when her campaign advertisements released on Facebook were taken off the platform, ostensibly for violating the latters community guidelines about the use of Facebooks logo. Though they were restored, Facebook unwittingly affirmed one of Warrens central themes, that companies running large internet platforms such as Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google enjoy disproportionate economic power not only in the economic sphere, but increasingly in the political sphere as well (Kelly 2019). NEW ORLEANS--Many people who use opioid medications long term do not produce enough testosterone or another important hormone, cortisol, according to a new study. Results of what the researchers called "the most up-to-date and most comprehensive clinical review of endocrine effects of long-term opioid use" are being presented Sunday at ENDO 2019, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in New Orleans, La. "These hormone deficiencies can cause a wide variety of symptoms, such as infertility, extreme fatigue and malaise," said study investigator Amir Zamanipoor Najafabadi, M.D./Ph.D. student at Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands. "People may not recognize these symptoms as possibly related to the increased use of opioids." Zamanipoor Najafabadi and colleagues, in a systematic review of 52 studies published before May 2018, looked at which hormones opioids may affect and what percentage of patients have a hormone deficit. In about half the studies, the patients were receiving opioids to relieve persistent pain. The researchers then narrowed the number of studies to those dealing with long-term opioid use--defined as longer than six months. They found enough evidence to determine the frequency of hypogonadism, which is an insufficient production of testosterone, and hypocortisolism, in which the body does not make enough cortisol. Up to 65 percent of men using opioids long term had hypogonadism, according to 15 studies in 3,250 patients, nearly all men. This condition in men may lead to erectile dysfunction, infertility, decreased body hair and muscle mass, and development of breasts. In five studies, the researchers discovered that up to 19 percent of 207 men and women with long-term opioid use had hypocortisolism. Because this hormone affects many different functions in the body, low cortisol can lead to various symptoms including fatigue, weight loss and mood changes, according to the Hormone Health Network. Patients who use opioids long term should get tested for these hormone deficiencies, so they can get appropriate treatment if needed. "Our study creates awareness of the frequent endocrinological issues in long-term opioid users and their need for regular endocrine checkups, which are not commonly being done," he said. Zamanipoor Najafabadi said that the evidence for opioid effects on other endocrine functions was insufficient in their study. He called for more research into opioid-induced effects on other endocrine axes, effect on female sex hormones and the management of related symptoms. ### Endocrinologists are at the core of solving the most pressing health problems of our time, from diabetes and obesity to infertility, bone health, and hormone-related cancers. The Endocrine Society is the world's oldest and largest organization of scientists devoted to hormone research and physicians who care for people with hormone-related conditions. The Society has more than 18,000 members, including scientists, physicians, educators, nurses and students in 122 countries. To learn more about the Society and the field of endocrinology, visit our site at http://www.endocrine.org. Follow us on Twitter at @TheEndoSociety and @EndoMedia. NEW ORLEANS--Exposure to dim light at night, which is common in today's lifestyle, may contribute to the spread of breast cancer to the bones, researchers have shown for the first time in an animal study. Results of the study will be presented Saturday at ENDO 2019, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in New Orleans, La. "To date, no one has reported that exposure to dim light at night induces circadian disruption, which then increases the formation of bone metastatic breast cancer," said Muralidharan Anbalagan, Ph.D., assistant professor, Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, La.". "This is important, as many patients with breast cancer are likely exposed to light at night as a result of lack of sleep, stress, excess light in the bedroom from mobile devices and other sources, or night shift work." More than 150,000 U.S. women had breast cancer in 2017 that metastasized, or spread outside the breast, according to an estimate from the National Cancer Institute. When breast cancer spreads, it often goes to the bones, where it can cause severe pain and fragile bones. In this preliminary study funded by the Louisiana Clinical and Translational Science Center (LACATS) in collaboration with Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium (LCRC) & Tulane Center for Circadian Biology, the researchers created a mouse model of bone metastatic breast cancer. They injected estrogen receptor-positive human breast cancer cells that have a low propensity to grow in bones into the tibia, or shinbone, of female mice. Like humans, the mice used in this study produce a strong nighttime circadian melatonin signal. This nighttime melatonin signal has been shown to produce strong anti-cancer actions and also promotes sleep. All mice were kept in the light for 12 hours each day. One group of three mice was in the dark the other 12 hours, which helped them produce high levels of endogenous melatonin. Another group spent 12 hours in light followed by 12 hours in dim light at night, which suppresses their nocturnal melatonin production. The dim light was 0.2 lux, which is less than a night-light or a display light from a cell phone, according to Anbalagan. X-ray images showed that mice exposed to a light/dim light cycle had much larger tumors and increased bone damage compared with mice kept in a standard light/dark cycle, he reported. "Our research identified the importance of an intact nocturnal circadian melatonin anti-cancer signal in suppressing bone-metastatic breast tumor growth," Anbalagan said. The ultimate goal of their research, he said, is to find a way to inhibit or suppress the progression of breast cancer metastases to bone. ### Endocrinologists are at the core of solving the most pressing health problems of our time, from diabetes and obesity to infertility, bone health, and hormone-related cancers. The Endocrine Society is the world's oldest and largest organization of scientists devoted to hormone research and physicians who care for people with hormone-related conditions. The Society has more than 18,000 members, including scientists, physicians, educators, nurses and students in 122 countries. To learn more about the Society and the field of endocrinology, visit our site at http://www.endocrine.org. Follow us on Twitter at @TheEndoSociety and @EndoMedia. NEW ORLEANS--Obesity may play a role in reproductive problems in women with type 1 diabetes, according to a new study to be presented Saturday, March 23 at ENDO 2019, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in New Orleans, La. Earlier studies have shown that type 1 diabetes is associated with menstrual irregularities and lower rates of fertility. "Women with type 1 diabetes remain at risk of significant reproductive problems despite improvements in current therapies, and this may be partly explained by the high prevalence of obesity in this group," said lead researcher Eleanor Thong, M.B.B.S., of the Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation in Clayton, Australia. The researchers analyzed data from the large community-based Australian Longitudinal Study in Women's Health (ALSWH), a national study funded by the Australian Department of Health. A total of 23,752 women aged 18-23 and 34-39 were included in the study. Of these women, 162 had type 1 diabetes. The researchers found 24 percent of women with type 1 diabetes were obese, compared with 16 percent of those without diabetes. Another notable finding was that one in four women with type 1 diabetes were current smokers, compared to one in six controls. Menstrual irregularities were seen in 47 percent of those with type 1 diabetes, compared with 35 percent of those without the disease. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was found in 14 percent of those with diabetes, compared with 5 percent in those without the disease. Women with PCOS produce higher-than-normal amounts of male-type hormones. This hormone imbalance causes them to skip menstrual periods and makes it harder for them to get pregnant. Menstrual irregularity was associated with increased body mass index (BMI), high blood pressure, smoking and PCOS in this cohort. In women with prior pregnancies, those with type 1 diabetes experienced significantly more miscarriages (46 percent compared with 33 percent of those without diabetes) and stillbirths (7 percent versus 1 percent). There was no difference in pregnancy rates. "Despite universal healthcare and improved diabetes management, the risk of miscarriages and stillbirths remain elevated in women with type 1 diabetes. Increased BMI may play a role in the development of PCOS, menstrual and reproductive problems. Furthermore, smoking is associated with an increased risk of menstrual disorders and miscarriage in this cohort," said co-author Professor Helena Teede, M.B.B.S. Ph.D., of the Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation. "Pre-conception care and counseling in reproductive-aged women with type 1 diabetes, including weight management and smoking cessation, is imperative to minimize complications in pregnancy." ### Endocrinologists are at the core of solving the most pressing health problems of our time, from diabetes and obesity to infertility, bone health, and hormone-related cancers. The Endocrine Society is the world's oldest and largest organization of scientists devoted to hormone research and physicians who care for people with hormone-related conditions. The Society has more than 18,000 members, including scientists, physicians, educators, nurses and students in 122 countries. To learn more about the Society and the field of endocrinology, visit our site at http://www.endocrine.org. Follow us on Twitter at @TheEndoSociety and @EndoMedia. Treating women with thyroid antibodies but a normal thyroid function with a medicine called Levothyroxine does not make them more likely to deliver a live baby, new research led by the University of Birmingham suggests. The research, which was led by researchers from the Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, the Institute of Applied Health Research, and Tommy's Centre for Miscarriage Research at the University of Birmingham, was published today (March 23rd) in New England Journal of Medicine. Funded by the MRC and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the research was also presented today at ENDO 2019, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in New Orleans, USA. Miscarriage occurs in one in five women who conceive, making it one of the most common complications of pregnancy. Previous research has found a strong association between the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies and miscarriage. However, it was unclear from previous evidence whether treating women with normal thyroid function and with thyroid peroxidase antibodies with Levothyroxine would improve live-birth rates. The University of Birmingham has now led the largest study of its kind to investigate whether treatment with Levothyroxine would increase the rates of live births at or beyond 34 weeks gestation among women who have thyroid antibodies and also a history of miscarriage or reduced fertility. Lead author Dr Rima Dhillon-Smith, an academic clinical lecturer at the University of Birmingham, said: "Our research has found that Levothyroxine treatment, started before pregnancy, in women with normal thyroid function and thyroid peroxidase antibodies who have a history of miscarriage or infertility, does not improve the chances of live birth. "We were surprised by the results of our study as previous small studies suggested there could be a benefit of Levothyroxine treatment in women with thyroid antibodies." The authors conducted a study of 940 women at 49 UK hospitals with normal thyroid function aged between 16 and 41 who were positive for thyroid peroxidase antibodies; had a history of miscarriage or infertility, and were trying to conceive naturally or with assisted conception. The study, carried out between 2011 and 2017, saw 470 women receive 50mcg daily of Levothyroxine and 470 women receive a daily placebo. The participants began taking the medication before they conceived and continued until the end of their pregnancy. Outcomes in both groups were similar: 266 of the 470 (56.6 per cent) women who received Levothyroxine, and 274 of 470 (58.3 per cent) women who received a placebo, became pregnant; 176 women (37.4 per cent) taking Levothyroxine, and 178 (37.9 per cent) taking a placebo, had live births. Dr Rima Dhillon-Smith added: "Thyroid peroxidase antibodies are found in the blood in approximately one in 10 women who have normal thyroid function, and they have been linked to increased risk of miscarriage and preterm birth. "International guidelines currently recommend the consideration of Levothyroxine treatment for women with thyroid antibodies, as there is thought to be minimal chance of harm and a potential to help increase the chance of having a live birth. "As our study was large and of high quality, we can now be confident that Levothyroxine does not improve pregnancy success for women with thyroid antibodies and normal thyroid function and therefore should not be recommended or used in clinical practice. This will mean no longer providing unnecessary medication to women who do not need it." Dr Kristien Boelaert, also of the University of Birmingham, said: "Our trial has definitively answered an important clinical question. "In a recent survey we carried out of UK fertility clinicians almost 40 per cent said they routinely use Levothyroxine in women with thyroid peroxidase antibodies to reduce miscarriage and pre-term birth. "We now pose the question of whether testing for thyroid peroxidase antibodies should be performed at all in women with infertility or previous miscarriages. "While thyroid peroxidase antibodies testing may inform about future risk of progression to thyroid disease, our research has shown its treatment with Levothyroxine does not improve pregnancy outcomes and may only generate patient anxiety and unnecessary healthcare costs. "We hope that national and international guidelines are updated to remove current recommendations which advise consideration of the use of Levothyroxine in these women. "We also hope that the current practice of routine testing of thyroid peroxidase antibodies in high risk populations such as women with miscarriage and reduced fertility is re-considered." ### For more information contact Emma McKinney, Communications Manager (Health Sciences), University of Birmingham, Email: e.j.mckinney@bham.ac.uk or tel: +44 (0) 121 414 6681, or contact the press office out of hours on +44 (0) 7789 921 165 or pressoffice@contacts.bham.ac.uk Notes to Editors The University of Birmingham is ranked amongst the world's top 100 institutions. Its work brings people from across the world to Birmingham, including researchers, teachers and more than 6,500 international students from over 150 countries. Dhillon-Smith et al (2019). Levothyroxine in Women with Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies before Conception. New England Journal of Medicine. The research was carried out in collaboration with Birmingham Women's and Children's Foundation Trust, the University of Oxford, The Miscarriage Association, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, Central Manchester University Hospital Foundation Trust, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, University College Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospital of Crosshouse, Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, The Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust, Queen Mary University of London, and the University of Nottingham. Endocrinologists are at the core of solving the most pressing health problems of our time, from diabetes and obesity to infertility, bone health, and hormone-related cancers. The Endocrine Society is the world's oldest and largest organization of scientists devoted to hormone research and physicians who care for people with hormone-related conditions. The Society has more than 18,000 members, including scientists, physicians, educators, nurses and students in 122 countries. To learn more about the Society and the field of endocrinology, visit our site at http://www.endocrine.org. Follow us on Twitter at @TheEndoSociety and @EndoMedia. The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) is the nation's largest funder of health and care research. The NIHR: Funds, supports and delivers high quality research that benefits the NHS, public health and social care Engages and involves patients, carers and the public in order to improve the reach, quality and impact of research Attracts, trains and supports the best researchers to tackle the complex health and care challenges of the future Invests in world-class infrastructure and a skilled delivery workforce to translate discoveries into improved treatments and services Partners with other public funders, charities and industry to maximise the value of research to patients and the economy The NIHR was established in 2006 to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research, and is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care. In addition to its national role, the NIHR commissions applied health research to benefit the poorest people in low- and middle-income countries, using Official Development Assistance funding. A pre-K teacher and a library media specialist Friday were named the top teachers in Bexar County, receiving Trinity Universitys Prize for Excellence in Teaching. Andrea Greimel teaches bilingual pre-kindergarten at San Antonio Independent School Districts Carvajal Early Childhood Education Center. Katie Michna, a former high school English teacher, is a library media specialist in Fort Sam Houston ISDs Cole Middle and High School Media Center. Finalists from 19 local school districts were named Bexar County Distinguished Educators, with Michna and Greimel taking the top prizes. The nominations take into consideration classroom performance, leadership and community service. Trinitys Department of Education launched the annual contest in the 1981-82 academic year. San Antonio ISD teachers now have received the prize two years in a row, while Michna is the first winner from Fort Sam Houston ISD since 2013-14. Great teachers are like rivers of a living water, that pour forth knowledge from their souls, said Norvella Carter, interim chairwoman of the department. Often, like the source of a river, they never see the power of their true impact on the lives of their students. Michna has worked at Fort Sam Houston ISD since 2007, and moved to the Media Center last summer, where she is able to empower students and families to get lost in the world of books and to fall in love with the power of words, Carter said. Fort Sam Houston ISD has given me the gift of being able to work with our military students every day, Michna said, adding of them and their families, I learn as much from each of you as youve learned from me. Every one of you out here, you inspire me, she told the crowd as she accepted the award. SAISDs Greimel who also was a finalist for the 2019 Texas Association of School Administrators Teacher of the Year has taught for 30 years. She was recognized for her advocacy for second-language learners. Im very different in so many ways from my students, and yet my students and their families have accepted me over the last 30 years, she said. Of her fellow nominees, she added, I feel like I know where your hearts are. Mandy Manning, the 2018 National Teacher of the Year, addressed the finalists at the award ceremony, urging them to use their experience to advocate for their students and have a voice in developing the policy that affects their classrooms. Manning teaches English to newly arrived refugee and immigrant students in Spokane, Washington. As educators who have been recognized for their experience and expertise, they should assert [their] experience and demand a seat at the policy table, Manning said. Teachers are rarely asked to develop policies, despite our professional expertise and our knowledge of how these policies will actually impact our students in our classroom, she said. We must take our seat at the head of table. LTeitz@express-news.net NEW BRAUNFELS Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick hinted Friday lawmakers could find themselves in overtime if they cant come to an agreement on legislation that would ease the growth of skyrocketing property taxes and improve how schools are funded. I don't want to pass a shiny bill to get out of Dodge, Patrick told roughly 400 attendees at the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerces annual legislative conference. Patrick struck a bipartisan tone at the conference largely of lawyers and business leaders, saying lawmakers of both parties are coming together to find a way to address the complicated problems of slowing down the growth of property taxes while funding schools and attracting people to teaching. All are signature issues of this years Legislative session and are embraced by leaders of both parties. Patrick added a fourth priority when speaking before the chamber: immigration. The lieutenant governor has advocated for President Donald Trumps border wall and has repeatedly been consulted by the president. MORE: Lt. Gov. Dan Patricks alliance with Trump gets tighter But Patrick signalled that there may not be enough time to come to an agreement on the major issues as lawmakers pass the mid-way point of their lawmaking session that began in January. Lawmakers have a set number of days to approve a budget and pass legislation to be signed by the governor. Legislation not passed will die, although the governor can call lawmakers back for special legislative sessions to undertake specific legislative ideas. Will we get out of there in 140 days, by the end of May, on time? Or will we be there later? I dont know that answer, Patrick said. In his 30-minute speech, the lieutenant governor dug in on his vow to give all teachers a pay raise, a point of contention between the two chambers. The Senate voted unanimously for a $5,000 across-the-board pay raise to all public school teachers and librarians, which would cost $3.9 billion by the end of the 2020-2021 school year. Top leaders in the House have thus far rejected that idea, instead insisting that lawmakers plug $6.7 billion in new money into education and allow school districts to decide for themselves how teachers and staff at their schools should be awarded raises. For subscribers: Legislators call for a swap: Higher sales taxes, lower property taxes Lawmakers are also discussing whether they will need to increase sales taxes or consider other means to fund the reforms long-term. Patrick appeared open to the prospect of raising new revenue but stopped short of advocating for a a particular plan. He alluded to efforts by lawmakers to raise the sales tax and another that would cap school property tax growth for maintenance and operations expenses at 2.5 percent without voter approval a favored plan by fellow Republican Gov. Greg Abbott although Patrick said he would support a higher threshold at 4 percent. Lawmakers have until Memorial Day to pass legislation. Andrea Zelinski is an Austin bureau reporter focusing on education, politics, social issues and the courts for the Houston Chronicle. Read her on our free site, chron.com, and on our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com. | andrea.zelinski@chron.com | Twitter: andreazelinski Over the years, there have been times when strangers stared at Shirley Harris, a hopeful look in their eyes. The strangers are young adults. One of them approached Harris at a grocery store, lured by a voice she never forgot. You dont recognize me, do you? the woman asked Harris, her eyes tearing. You took care of me and combed my hair. I always wondered if I would see you again. Harris was caught off-guard. But within seconds, the womans face became the features of a familiar, small girl. Harris recognized her as one of the hundreds of children she has comforted and cared for as a youth care specialist at the Childrens Shelter in San Antonio. To me, that is so amazing, she said, recalling the reunion as she sat on the end of a toddlers bed one recent morning. It makes me feel good as a person, and as a woman. For the past 28 years, Harris has soothed youngsters fears and given them hope after painful experiences that linger long after they are safe. During the childrens stay at the shelter, the 59-year-old San Antonio native and her co-workers are like surrogate parents, 24 hours a day. The children call her Mama Shirley. Before working at the emergency shelter, her only experience caring for children was the babysitting shed done for families in her neighborhood. She and her husband, Lane, a retired teacher, have no children of their own. The shelters chief public relations officer, Anais Biera Miracle, said Harris is the welcoming face many youngsters see from the time they get up to the time they turn in for bed. Mama Shirley helps the kids in a playful manner, Miracle said. It doesnt sound punitive, but playful. The children brought to the the Childrens Shelter have suffered abuse, neglect or abandonment. They stay for periods ranging from 24 hours to 90 days. In mid-February, 56 children were at the emergency shelter. In Fiscal Year 2018, more than 5,000 children, youths and families received care through the nonprofits services. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Bexar County reported 5,865 confirmed victims of abuse and neglect and nine child deaths caused by abuse or neglect that year. Officials said that when the children leave the shelter, 42 percent go to live with relatives; 39 percent are placed in foster homes and 15 percent return to their parents. Harris was a nurses assistant, caring for seniors with Alzheimers disease, before she was hired at the shelter. During those six years at the senior center, she eased elders anxiety as they tried to hold on to misty memories, listening and dancing with them to their favorite songs. At the childrens shelter, she started out on the early morning shift caring for babies suffering from exposure to drugs or alcohol. When the babies required medical care, Harris would be at their side at the hospital for hours. It was difficult. Her first infant shook uncontrollably, going through painful drug withdrawals after she was born to a heroin-addicted mother. She would hold the 3-week-old boy close to her heart, rocking him until his crying and tremors stopped. She recalled doctors would tell her the next 24 hours were crucial for severely sick babies, determining whether they would live or die. Hearing about the abuse and neglect that the children had endured brought on crying spells, Harris recalled. She learned to cope by talking with an experienced shelter caseworker who would calm her down. In the 1990s, things became worse. She said that the shelter cared for babies left on benches and dumpsters and in a shoe box. She recalled helping a 2-girl-old girl who had been abused by her mothers boyfriend. When Harris went to help her change her clothes, the little girl flinched and said: Dont hurt me. She reassured the child that she was safe. Faith keeps me going, she said. You see too much. I try to leave the job here, but sometimes I cant. Harris has found ways to deal with the pain. She always wears a bow in her pulled-back hair for the children that matches her clothes. She wears a crucifix that keeps her centered. At home, her husband listens to the stories that still cause tears to well in her eyes. Several years ago, she recruited volunteers and co-workers to collect clothes for a program called Girls Rocking Red. It started with a girl who carried the imprint of a boot after her mothers boyfriend kicked her in the face. The girl said she was ugly. Harris assured her that she wasnt and asked what would make her feel pretty. A red dress, the girl said. A donor bought her the dress along with a headband, socks and shoes. The reaction was so positive, a program was born. Harris also collects black pants and dress shirts for boys. She said they can wear the clothes to court or, she added sadly, to a funeral for siblings who have died from abuse. Caregivers such as Harris play a vital role in the social, emotional and cognitive development of children and youths, said Susan Dreyfus, president and CEO of the Alliance for Strong Families and Communities, which has its headquarters in Washington, D.C. Dreyfus said the youth specialists are at the core of how children and youths heal from relational trauma. They have a significant impact on the development of children, because they help build positive memories, she said, and help them during a critical time in their life that appears to be uncertain. They are not just caregivers for children. They are a constant in a childs life, when they have experienced inconsistencies with caregivers being present and patient with them. Assistant program director Javier De Hoyos has worked with Harris at the Childrens Shelter for 28 years. He said shes always been a special person who has connected with the children every single day. Thats how we help heal these children, he said, by being genuine. When she talks, its like motherly love and that means so much to the kids. That defensive window has been opened, rather than closed. Its an opportunity for them to express themselves freely. Early one recent morning, a 3-year-old boy sat up in his bed, wrapped in a swirl of blankets. The other five toddlers were still asleep in the low-lit toddler room. After he brushed his teeth, Harris helped him get out of his pajamas and slip on clean clothes. Let mama see you, she said, smiling at the youngster as he tugged at his plaid shirt. You look good, boy. We have to look good everyday. We have to represent. The hardest part, she said, is that the children and caregivers become attached to one another. Unable to have children of her own, Harris nurtures the youngsters as if she were their mother. She knows their favorite colors. She teaches them to say yes, maam and yes, sir. She treats them all the same. And she doesnt sugarcoat anything. When they ask if they are going back home, she tells them its up to the court, but shell pray for them. On Fridays, before she leaves, Harris tells the children shell be gone for two days, but shell be back Monday morning. Recently, a toddler walked through blocks scattered on the floor, past the toys and books lining a counter top. She stopped and held her arms up toward Harris. She knelt and told the girl, Mama loves you. Those were the same three words Harris said more than 18 years ago to the young woman she ran into in the grocery store. The girl, whose hair she combed and styled, grew up to follow Harris example today she, too, cares for youngsters at a program run by the Childrens Shelter. Vincent T. Davis is a reporter in the Greater San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | vtdavis@express-news.net | Twitter: @vincentdavis A teenager was arrested Friday after a shooting involving an Uber driver who was trying to earn extra money for his daughters birthday. Kim Troy Williams, 51, was shot twice in the abdomen around 8:20 a.m. Thursday after he picked up two passengers at an unknown location and drove them to the 7400 block of New Laredo Highway, San Antonio police said. The suspects took everything Williams had, including his wallet, cellphone and laptop, and fled in his 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander. Williams was able to make his way to a nearby muffler shop for help, and paramedics picked him up there and transported him to San Antonio Military Medical Center. As of Friday, he remained in a medically induced coma after undergoing four surgeries. Jesus Luna, 18, was taken into custody Friday in connection with the shooting, San Antonio Police Department spokeswoman Jennifer Rodriguez said. Luna faces a charge of aggravated robbery. SWAT and robbery detectives arrested Luna without incident on the Southwest Side. Williams SUV was recovered not far from the site of Lunas arrest. As he was led away in handcuffs, Luna denied taking part in the shooting. Asked if he had any regrets about ending up in handcuffs, Luna said Yes ... everything, but declined to elaborate. Police did not reveal Lunas role in Williams shooting. We are working to identify a second suspect in the incident, Rodriguez said. Anyone with information is asked to contact police. Amy Keslar Williams said that after her brother-in-law was shot, he remained conscious long enough to get to the hospital. Kim Williams gave police a description of one of the suspects who attacked him and an emergency contact before going into a coma, his sister-in-law said. Doctors removed parts of his internal organs that were damaged by the bullets, including his gall bladder, liver, a piece of his stomach and a portion of his lung, his sister-in-law said. She said his abdomen is open and could stay that way through today until doctors can finish reconstructive surgery. Its still a long road to recovery. Hes still going to have to have a few more surgeries, Amy Williams said. Theyre not exactly sure how many because of ... all the things they have to do and each one seems to have a bit of a hold up. Williams, who works at a T.J. Maxx distribution warehouse, joined Uber to earn extra money for his daughters ninth birthday party, his family said. Hes such a sweet guy, Amy Williams said. He never had a bad word to say about anyone. He likes to smile and laugh and loves hanging out with his daughter. She said Kim Williams, at 6-foot-3 with a heavy-set build, was never afraid to pick up people at certain parts of town. The two people he picked up Thursday, who used a gift card to pay for the Uber, were strangers to him and his family, she said. Its a tough situation, were dealing as best as we can, his sister-in-law said. Everybodys been around 24 hours. Were a close-knit family, real tight-knit. A GoFundMe account set up by Williams family to help cover his medical expenses had raised more than $6,000 as of Saturday. So many memories linger from Holocaust survivor Eva Schloss talk in San Antonio this week, most impressively the more than 2,000 San Antonians in attendance and reportedly the largest group of children she has ever addressed at one time. Her mesmerized audience at Trinity University sat in silence for well over two hours as she recounted horrifying memories of Nazi atrocities. The world knew. Thats really the lesson Schloss left us, telling us to remain vigilant against injustice. Schloss life has been closely intertwined with that of Anne Frank, the Jewish girl who lived in hiding during World War II and kept a diary thats probably the most widely read book about the Holocaust. Frank was Schloss precocious friend, who had no inhibitions, dreamed of becoming a model and liked boys early. Annes father Otto Frank became Schloss stepfather. He survived and eventually married Schloss mother. The couple helped bring the world The Diary of Anne Frank. Schloss, now 89, has written several books, too, including The Promise: The Moving Story of a Family in the Holocaust. She captivated an audience with her memories and knowledge of the war, describing how Hitlers regime overran Europe, created hundreds of death camps and killed an estimated 6 million Jews and more than 10 million others. Schloss stressed that Hitler took advantage of discontent and poverty in post-WWI Germany and Austria. He talked of having a solution for getting Germany back on its feet, she said. People went along with him, even as swastikas started appearing on the streets of Vienna, where her family lived. They fled to Amsterdam, leaving everything they owned. Forced into hiding, the family was separated. Schloss stayed with her mother; her father with her brother. The latter two didnt survive. Events unfolded both quickly and slowly. Nothing happened right after Germany invaded the Netherlands. We waited, she said. Then measures were introduced barring Jews from public transport and concerts. Curfews were imposed. Jews were ordered to sew yellow stars onto their clothing. People started to disappear, Schloss said. Children went to school and never returned. Shed learn later that some were marched to a cliff and thrown off it. Others went into hiding, aided by non-Jews. She and her mother lived in seven different hiding places. Hosts werent always heroes, though. Some betrayed or blackmailed Jews. Schloss and her family were eventually discovered and put on trains. The only good thing was that we were together as a family, she said. For all the horrors they endured, she said being separated was the greatest. It happened again when Schloss and her mother were sent to the Auschwitz concentration camp in southern Poland, where they confronted the notorious Dr. Josef Mengele. He decided who would live another day or go to the gas chambers. He didnt look evil, she said. He was an ordinary person. Schloss, then a teenager, was assigned to sort the prisoners belongings, which were sent to Germany to help the war effort. Its why the war lasted so long, she said. She and her mother eventually were liberated by Russian soldiers, but it took four months before they really knew theyd survived. I was full of hatred, she said. I was more depressed after the war than in the camp. She couldnt speak about what shed been through, and people didnt want to know anyway. She didnt believe in anything, not God, not humanity. But she went about her life. Like so many other Holocaust survivors, she feels driven to bear witness in the face of todays renewed anti-Semitism, hate, nationalism and bigotry. She looked out at all the young people in the audience and said she has great hope. We all have to do our little bit to change the future, she said. My favorite of many poignant moments was when Santiago Colak, 10, spoke. He and his mother sat next to me in the Laurie Auditorium, and he asked for a couple of pages from my reporters notebook on which to take notes. Theyre immigrants from Argentina. Santiago was the last to pose a question, asking Schloss how we can make sure no one forgets the Holocaust. Schloss thanked him and cited the many books, movies and other resources that can be read, viewed and shared. Tell your children, she told the audience. A day after that exchange, Santiago asked his teacher if he could speak to his class about the event. He was so happy to use that opportunity to tell his classmates about the importance of memory, of learning about the Holocaust and to never forget, said his mother, Gabriela Colak. Santiago is a Muslim and the son of an imam in San Antonio. Elaine Ayala is a columnist covering San Antonio and Bexar County. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | eayala@express-news.net | Twitter: @ElaineAyala Greg Brockhouse thinks of himself as a redeemed man. A wayward son of a Lutheran pastor, who let pride, ego and the relentless pursuit of wealth divert him from a spiritual path, until a 2008 conversion to Catholicism (and the love of his current wife, Annalisa) set him straight. Judge me by what Ive learned. Thats how Brockhouse put it in 2012 when he launched his first campaign for the City Council. It was a genuine expression of the councilmans faith, which has been something of a life preserver for him. It also has been a way to guard him from political fallout over the misdeeds of his pre-conversion life. For example, it pre-emptively defused any questions about the fact that hes been married three times and fathered children with four women. Wed all like to be judged by what weve learned, and, up to a certain point, we deserve that benefit of the doubt. After all, wisdom is the hard-earned product of past mistakes you dont get the pearl from the oyster without some irritation. To put it another way, you dont get smart without some stupid along the way. All of this plays into the story that currently hangs over Brockhouses mayoral campaign: the recent San Antonio Express-News investigative piece from Brian Chasnoff that chronicled two domestic disturbance incidents over the past 13 years involving Brockhouse. The response from the candidate and his supporters has been a combination of two complementary arguments: One, Brockhouse never faced arrest, and the two incidents which involve his second and third wives amount to he said, she said situations. That much is true, although when youve got two she saids against your one he said, the weight of credibility starts to tilt against you. Two, the most recent of these incidents occurred more than nine years ago, and hes not the same man he was back then. Judge me by what Ive learned. The problem with this rationale is that it doesnt account for the dishonesty that Brockhouse has demonstrated within the past week when answering questions about the domestic disturbances. That dishonesty calls into question whether hes learned anything. Lets take the most recent incident, which occurred on the night of Dec. 23, 2009. Annalisa Brockhouse called the police, alleging that her husband grabbed her, threw her on the ground, got on top of her and tried to hit her, according to a police report. She said her husband had been drinking a lot. During the week, when confronted with questions about this incident, Brockhouse said, I dont remember that at all. I dont recall any of that. Ill have to talk to her about it. A day later, immediately after a Friday morning debate with Mayor Ron Nirenberg on KTSA 550 AM, Brockhouse still had no answers. I asked for a copy of this report, he said. I want to see what this is. Try asking yourself if this response passes any kind of smell test. Is it really possible that he has no memory of an incident that prompted his wife to call the police on him? Is it really possible that he never knew she made the call? Then there is the April 29, 2006, incident, which occurred at a time when Brockhouse and his second wife, Christine Rivera, were breaking up. After moving out of the house they shared, Brockhouse went back to retrieve some of his belongings. When Rivera and her then-boyfriend arrived, a confrontation ensued. Rivera told a 911 dispatcher that Brockhouse was causing a disturbance and pushed her. On Wednesday, she recalled that the push was so hard, she hit the side of the house. Her boyfriend ended up attacking Brockhouse, prompting Brockhouse to file a complaint with the police. Brockhouse denies that he pushed Rivera and has cast himself as an innocent victim in that situation. When the incident came up Wednesday during Brockhouses visit to the Express-News Editorial Board, he responded with a reticence that he couched as protectiveness toward his ex-wife. I have a great relationship with her, he said. Thats hard to believe, given what Rivera had to say about her ex-husband the same day. Rivera, who now lives in Washington, D.C., told Chasnoff that she is hesitant to return to her hometown of San Antonio because of Brockhouse. She said he has anger management issues and added, I need to stop being scared of him. Brockhouse also twisted the truth during Fridays mayoral debate, when he falsely said Chasnoffs story left out the fact that he was the complainant in the 2006 incident. Voters will have to assess how much weight they want to give to Brockhouses actions of a decade ago. But they should also consider what to make of the falsehoods he perpetrated in the past week. Gilbert Garcia is a columnist covering the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | ggarcia@express-news.net | Twitter: @gilgamesh470 Impeachment talk is in the air. U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan has announced that she will submit a resolution to the House of Representatives seeking to impeach President Donald Trump. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has indicated, however, that she will not support such a resolution until more facts justifying an impeachment have been gathered, presumably through Robert Muellers and the House Judiciary Committees investigations. So what does it take to impeach a U.S. president? Impeachment is a constitutionally authorized process by which the legislative branch of the federal government charges and tries officers of the executive or judicial branches with offenses justifying their removal from office. The process begins when the House charges a federal official by voting in favor of articles of impeachment. The House can impeach a federal officer if a simple majority of its members vote in favor of the articles. Although the House can charge an official with impeachable offenses, it cannot convict or remove that official from office. Article 1, section 2, of the U.S. Constitution gives the sole Power of Impeachment to the House, but section 3 provides that the Senate has the sole Power to try all Impeachments. In this trial, the U.S. Senate determines whether the official charged by articles voted out of the House should be found guilty of any of those charges. Only a finding of guilty by the Senate can remove the official from federal office. Section 3 also limits the Senates discretion by requiring that in all such trials: Participating senators must be under Oath or Affirmation No person shall be convicted except on the Concurrence of two thirds of the Members present Conviction can only be for removal from office and disqualification to hold and enjoy any Office of honor under the United States. If the president of the United States is impeached, section 3 requires that the Chief Justice shall preside over that trial. Article 2, section 4, of the Constitution states that the President, Vice President and all Civil Officers of the United states can be removed from office upon conviction of Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors. Treason typically requires one to have attempted to overthrow the U. S. government by making war on it or by aiding its enemies. Bribery, in this instance, involves receipt of a corrupt payment made by those seeking a private favor through the use of political power. The high-crimes-and-misdemeanors language allows a much broader category of impeachable offenses but it provides little helpful direction to those seeking to identify the serious offenses that would suffice. Rep. Gerald Ford, who became vice president after Spiro Agnew resigned and president after Richard Nixon resigned, sought to impeach William O. Douglas, associate justice of the Supreme Court. In that failed effort, he stated in 1970 that an impeachable offense is whatever a majority of the House considers it to be at any given moment in history. However, a 1974 report of the House Judiciary Committee concluded that impeachable offenses should be based on egregious abuses of power, gross violations of the legitimate functions of office, or for using political offices for personal gain. The House has only ever impeached two presidents. Shortly after the end of the Civil War, the House impeached President Andrew Johnson because he unilaterally fired the secretary of war in violation of the Tenure in Office Act, which required the consent of Congress. More recently, the House impeached President Bill Clinton for committing perjury and obstructing justice. Both of these presidents were acquitted in the Senate, and therefore were not removed. In addition, the House Judiciary Committee voted in favor of articles of impeachment against Nixon, but he resigned from office before the full House voted on those articles. After that resignation, the proceedings went no further. In our history, 19 federal officials have been charged with impeachable offenses by the House. The Senate has removed only eight of those from office by conviction, and all eight were federal judges. The different rate of removal for impeached federal judges and impeached presidents derives, in part, from the different electorally-accountable nature and duration of the offices held. Federal judges are appointed (the president nominates and the Senate approves or rejects) rather than elected, and they hold their Offices during good Behaviour. This good-behavior language has been construed to mean that federal judges appointed under Article 3 of the Constitution hold office for life and cannot be removed except through conviction in the Senate on articles of impeachment. Presidents, on the other hand, are elected by the electors in the states, which usually, but not always, means they were elected by a majority of those voting. Removal of a president therefore reverses the effects of the electoral process. In addition, the 21st Amendment to the Constitution also limits any modern president to two terms or eight years in office. Because the Constitution gives sole Power over impeachment and removal to Congress, few occasions arise allowing judicial challenge to those decisions. Our country therefore does not have a body of judicial decisions that answer many of the questions raised by the process. Impeachment and removal therefore remain as largely political acts, even if one does not accept Fords blunt statement suggesting that no standard applies in the House. The impeachment and trial of a president pose a special danger to our political system by seriously disrupting the usual operation of government. Such disruption of government strongly suggests that the offenses charged should consist of official actions that seriously endanger our political system. And impeachment or removal of a president for wholly partisan reasons establishes a precedent that can cause harm to our democracy. On the other hand, presidents control the executive branch of the federal government and have broad powers to affect our country for good or ill. The dangers posed by a president who engages in the serious abuse or corrupt application of his executive powers therefore can justify the disruption of our government. The important question is whether the offenses charged are sufficiently serious to justify that disruption. David Dittfurth is a professor of law at St. Marys University School of Law and an expert in constitutional law. A few comedians walk into a bar OK, so maybe its a Jewish Community Center and take turns at the microphone telling jokes about family. Their families. Your family. Everyones family. Whats more universal than wacky relatives and their caricatures, right? When I talk about myself, Im mostly talking about the foibles of the culture that I come from, says Steve Bennett, a native of Minnesota and one of six comedians slated to perform at the JCC in Sherman on Saturday, April 6 for Laugh Out Loud Comedy Night. And by foibles, Bennett means serving lime Jell-O with chunks of elbow not fruit cocktail, not diced apples, just bits of the aforementioned elbow for a rather wretched dessert. But whatever you do next, please dont offend the host. And definitely dont spit out the recipe roadkill in your napkin. Minnesotans are polite to a fault, says Bennett, a self-described rookie comedian at 61 who practices law by day and hits the open-mic circuit by night. If youre a Minnesotan, you dont try the Jello-O and go, Thats disgusting! Whats wrong with you? Instead, you take this tiny, little bite and go, Oh, thats different. Different, indeed. Comedy nights have become annual staples at Jewish institutions in Connecticut, from temples across Fairfield and Litchfield counties to JCCs in Sherman, Stamford and Greater New Haven. In fact, the JCC of Greater New Haven will hold its 13th annual Comedy Deli Night the same night as the Sherman show. Meanwhile, Temple Beth Elohim in Brewster, N.Y., which draws many of its members from Connecticut, sponsored its 26th annual Comedy Night last November. These comedy shows have become one part fundraiser, one part community builder nights to strengthen temple and JCC communities as well as the community at large. The programs bring people together to promote inclusion, diversity, and if youre really lucky, the kind of jokes that make you snort like Ralphies kid brother eating mashed potatoes in A Christmas Story. Mike Calcagno, a Long Island native who has opened for the likes of Kevin James, Ben Bailey and Nick Di Paolo, also will perform at the JCC in Sherman. Hes been doing standup comedy for the last five years. Calcagno loves his job, but admits the craft can be all-consuming. I was always funny with my friends growing up. But when I first tried standup, I wasnt funny, he says. I hit a wall. I knew right away ah, [insert colorful language here] this is going to be really hard, but Ive kept at it. Along the way, Calcagno started his own production company, Laugh Track Films. In addition to working with Saturday Night Live alumnus Jim Breuer on sketches remember Goat Boy? Calcagno works with his father on a series called CalcagKNOWS, where the two men try to answer impossible questions without using the Internet. Its a good place to visit on YouTube if youve ever wondered, Why do horsepower and torque cross at 5252 rpm? Like Bennett, Calcagno finds humor at home. I talk about my family and my fiancee a lot my dad, my mom, aunts and uncles, everyone, explains Calcagno, 28. My future wife is half-Jewish. Her family is very similar to mine. It doesnt matter whether youre Italian, Jewish, whatever. The jokes are still relatable. For Jessica Saul, a 25-year-old comedian who grew up in Florida before moving to New York, the punchlines come from her experiences dating and working in the big city. Im not really a storyteller. Im more of a quirky Jewish girl who has something to say, notes Saul, who has been collecting open-mic appearances, and more and more paid gigs, for the last two years. My standup is really a lot of character-based stuff and voices. Some of Sauls impersonations include celebrity chef Paula Deen, actress Jennifer Lawrence, comedian Sarah Silverman, and of course, her mom just maybe her go-to source for material. The suffering and the stereotypes are real, Saul says. Being raised by a Jewish mother either leads you to insanity or some kind of outlet. For me, its comedy. The thing is, were not really a big religious family. Not at all. Probably the most Jewish thing about us is that we eat bagels. Along with Bennett, Calcagno and Saul, the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Night in Sherman will feature standup comics Matt Carter, Youngmi Mayer and Ed Prokopski. Ultimately, Bennett believes, standup comedy is an important form of self-expression. I heard a person say youre playing a character on stage. And you are. Youre playing yourself, Bennett says. The idea with standup is you take who you are and then you amp it up a little bit. You make it bigger not totally exaggerated, but bigger and that makes it easier to see the elements of your character. And then, of course, you have to be funny. The rest will take care of itself. Just dont spit out the lime Jell-O in your napkin. Brian Koonz is a freelance writer and former reporter, editor and columnist for the Hearst Connecticut Media Group. Fairfield, MT (59436) Today Partly cloudy skies. Gusty winds during the evening. Low near 35F. Winds SSW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. Gusty winds during the evening. Low near 35F. Winds SSW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph. 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. Images from rural areas around Denizli have illustrated Tuesday mornings earth tremor was more severe than most but nowhere near as bad as suggested in some of the British media. Different sources have given different measurements for the initial quake. Some reported it to have been as high as 6.4 and as low as 5.5 on the Richter Scale. A couple of smaller aftershocks followed within a few minutes. Despite damage to farm buildings and a number of homes in the area closest to the epicentre, no fatalities were recorded. Only a handful of people suffered injuries, caused mostly in the panic to leave swaying buildings. Misleading coverage However, back in the UK, the Daily Express linked the tremor with the holiday hotspot of Antalya almost 100 miles away and Izmir over 160 miles away. The paper also used statistics to remind readers tens of thousands have died in earthquakes in Turkey and asked whether the country is a safe destination for holidaymakers. However, the head of the Nature Sciences Research Department at Turkeys Yildiz Technical University Dr Sukru Ersoy pointed out this weeks quake was not linked to the closely-watched fault line in the Sea of Marmara which caused a much more severe earthquake in the late 1990s. Professor of geophysics at Kocaeli University, Dr Serif Baris, added old and unstable buildings in the Denizli area were damaged as the epicentre of the tremor this week was just 10km deep which is relatively shallow. Dr Zyadn Cakr from Istanbul Universitys Mines and Geological Department also reassured residents of the the Denizli region that further quakes were unlikely as the district lies some distance from any of the Mediterraneans major fault lines. Tremor facts Tremors are a fairly common phenomena around the globe, with hundreds recorded daily. Spain, Greece, Portugal and Italy are also within the Mediterranean region where tremors are possible. By far the majority are not severe enough to be felt on the surface but even those which are help to release pressure between tectonic plates, reducing the risk of a far more serious event. In the event of a more severe tremor, older historic buildings which do not benefit from modern innovations to protect them could be at risk. However, building regulations now in force in Turkey oblige construction firms to take account of the risks and to include earthquake protection in their designs. Advice on how to prepare for tremors and what to do should one occur can be found here: https://www.fethiyetimes.com/fethiye-life/29328-when-the-earth-moves-an-earthquake-survival-guide.html?fbclid=IwAR07FAkWHa2pkT2QOF5oPGX-1_pocF8XrmltAlclzOzAbXcLxh-tUgUrcIU Yash was one of the actors targeted during the recent Sandalwood IT raid. He's one of the biggest stars of the Kannada Film industry, who rose to further fame following the success of KGF Chapter 1. Last month, it was revealed that the actor bought property worth a huge sum in his hometown Hassan. But, his mother Pushpa is making headlines for contradicting reasons. According First News Kannada reports, Rocking Star's mother has been accused of not paying rent worth lakhs. She's also received notice from the court to vacate the house. However, she has approached the Supreme Court yet again for further extension. Apparently, Yash family has been staying at the house in Banashankari 3rd block since 2010. They were paying a rent of Rs 40,000 per month. But, from 2013, they stopped paying the rest and refused to vacate the house when told by the landlords. She was also believed to be conducting chit fund activities within the residence. Thus, the owners of the property, took the matter to Civil Court. In her defense, Pushpa told the authorities that the construction of the house wasn't complete and that her family spent Rs 12.5 lakh on it. the aged couple who own the house said that all of this was done in the absence of their knowledge. The court however worked in favor of the landlords. Pushpa was asked to pay the total rent from starting 2013, along with an interest of 9 %. She wasn't satisfied with the verdict and took the matter to the High Court. However, she lost the case at the High Court too. The actor's mother was given the permission to stay in the house until March 31, 2019 upon clearing the due. MOST READ : KGF Chapter 2 Spoiler: Will Rocky Bhai Marry Reena? Srinidhi Shetty Answers The Question! According to the latest reports, she has approached t he Supreme Court to look into the matter and seeking extension on the stay. A Global Release Lucifer is rightly one of the highly-awaited South Indian movies of the year and it's gearing up to be one of the biggest Malayalam movie releases of the year. Reportedly, the film will be making a global release. UK Release Along with the UAE/GCC regions, Lucifer will be simultaneously release in the UK as well. According to the reports, Mohanlal starrer Lucifer will be releasing in the UK and other European countries on March 29, 2019. Biggest Ever Release Most recently, the makers of the film came up with the theatre charting of the Mohanlal starrer in the cinemas around UK and the Europe. According to the reports, the film will be the biggest ever release for a Malayalam movie in the UK. In Other Centres The movie will be releasing in other centres across the globe as well. The theatres listing for the film in Kerala is being awaited. The movie is expected to release in a grand number of screens out here as well. Meanwhile, Lucifer will be releasing in the US as well on March 28, 2019. Xem them ... Tin bai cuoi cung Khong con du lieu e load NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / March 22, 2019 / In today's world where education is considered the key to success in life. Today we would like to tell you a story about a young boy who proved that without any higher academic education you could succeed in life If u have the will and determination to achieve the things you desire. The story is about a boy name AKSHAY GIRME who was born and raised in a small village of Maharashtra. Akshay was born in a middle-class family and has only been able to study until 10th STD in a Marathi medium school because of the poor financial condition of his home. He was always interested in computers and technology but because of the financial difficulties, he didn't get any help from his family to pursue his dream in the technology field. Akshay was determined and committed to his dreams. He knew no one would come to help him so he's gonna have to do it on his own. He started to save his pocket money and went to a Cybercafe to gain knowledge of different things about computers and technology. In 2012 his interest grew in digital media marketing and he found out that this is what he wants to do and pursue as a career. So from then on, he started to learn the digital marketing full time and after so much time and dedication of years, he mastered almost every aspect of digital marketing. On October 2018 Akshay Girme started his own digital marketing company name AD MEDIA and in just a span of few months, the company became a big name in the digital marketing field. The company operates from Pune, Maharashtra and currently manages most of the Marathi Cinema's promotion. Today AD Media is highly appreciated by Marathi celebrities, actors, directors for its work. AD MEDIA is among one of the biggest Digital Marketing company in India and it so popular amongst the youth. A 10th std pass high school drop out boy is today is an owner of a huge company and earning lacs. Who would've thought that a school drop out boy with no support and poor financial background would be this successful? No one right but with hard work, dedication, determination and the will to succeed and never give up attitude made it possible for Akshay Girme. Once a boy didn't even have the money to continue his study to a guy who owns a company he has for a long way. Akshay's success story is so inspiring and encouraging. Despite all the difficulties, problems and lack of resources he never quit and continuously worked for his dream. The never say die attitude of Akshay finally paid him off. We congratulate and wish all the best to Akshay Girme for his brighter future. He is an inspiration to so many youths these days. We hope that Akshay will keep growing bigger and keep inspiring all of us. CONTACT: Akshay admediapune@gmail.com SOURCE: Mentionworth Media View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/539880/Story-of-a-High-School-Dropout-Akshay-Girme-Who-is-Ruling-the-Digital-World-Like-a-Boss Vernon, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 22, 2019) - True Leaf Medicine International Ltd. (CSE: MJ) (OTCQX: TRLFF) (FSE: TLA) ("True Leaf" or the "Company"), a leading global cannabis and hemp wellness brand for pets, at the request of IIROC, wishes to clarify the news release issued on March 15, 2019. On March 15, 2019, True Leaf announced: "Working to raise its profile among U.S. investors, the Company has also retained KCSA Strategic Communications as its investor relations counsel." True Leaf has retained KCSA Strategic Communications ("KCSA"), a leading New York-based communications firm, to support the Company's investor relations efforts in the United States. KCSA will employ a comprehensive communications program designed to increase awareness of True Leaf across the investment community. Since KCSA's inception nearly fifty years ago, the firm has developed a reputation for its innovative and dedicated work representing public companies, and, most recently has become one of the leading communications firms within the emerging cannabis industry. Specifically, True Leaf wishes to clarify that: For its services supporting the Company's investor relations efforts in the United States, KCSA will receive $8,000 per month (USD). The term of the engagement will be initially two months and then ongoing on a month-to-month basis. The Company has the right to terminate the relationship on 30 days' notice. About True Leaf True Leaf is a leading global cannabis and hemp wellness brand for pets. Inspired by the unconditional love our pets give us every day, we return that love through our wellness pet products which help maintain and protect the natural vitality of our pet companions. "Return the Love" is the purpose that drives our business and is at the heart of our values to bring happiness to pets and their owners. www.trueleaf.com For more information: Media Contact Paul Sullivan Director, Public Relations Paul@trueleaf.com O: 604-685-4742 M: 604-603-7358 Investor Contact Kevin Bottomley (Canada) Director and Corporate Relations Kevin@trueleaf.com M: 778-389-9933 Phil Carlson (US) KCSA Strategic Communications pcarlson@kcsa.com O: 212-896-1233 Scott Eckstein (US) KCSA Strategic Communications seckstein@kcsa.com O: 212-896-1210 Follow True Leaf Twitter: @trueleafpet Facebook: True Leaf Pet Instagram: @trueleafpet Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and management may make additional forward-looking statements in response to your questions. Such written and oral disclosures are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and True Leaf hereby claims such safe harbour protection for all forward-looking statements. True Leaf believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions; however, True Leaf's actual results and performance and the value of its securities could differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements due to the impact of many factors summarized in the "Risk Factors" section of True Leaf's Offering Circular Form 1-A filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and Canadian securities regulatory authorities and other discussions of risk factors contained in True Leaf's periodic filings or supplements to the offering circular. True Leaf's Offering Circular Form 1-A can be found at ir.trueleaf.com. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. True Leaf undertakes no obligation to update or revise any such information for any reason after the date of this presentation unless required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/43618 WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Commerce Department has found China unfairly subsidized steel wheels exported to the United States and sold them at prices below fair value, the department announced on Friday in its final determination WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Commerce Department has found China unfairly subsidized steel wheels exported to the United States and sold them at prices below fair value, the department announced on Friday in its final determination. If the U.S. International Trade Commission issues a final finding that U.S. producers are being harmed, then tariffs on the products will go into effect for five years. The United States made its initial determination in October. It opened the investigation after receiving complaints from Accuride Corporation of Evansville, Indiana, and Maxion Wheels Akron LLC of Akron, Ohio. U.S. imports of steel wheels from China were valued at $388 million in 2017, the Commerce Department said. The department's finding comes on the eve of the latest trade talks between U.S. and Chinese negotiators seeking to ease eight months of tensions between the globe's two largest economies. (Reporting by Makini Brice; Editing by David Alexander and Tom Brown) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. By Lesley Wroughton and Roberta Rampton WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Inter-American Development Bank on Friday cancelled a meeting of its member countries due to be held in China next week after Beijing refused to allow a representative of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido to attend, two sources with knowledge of the decision said. By Lesley Wroughton and Roberta Rampton WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Inter-American Development Bank on Friday cancelled a meeting of its member countries due to be held in China next week after Beijing refused to allow a representative of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido to attend, two sources with knowledge of the decision said. The sources said the decision was made by the board of the IADB, the region's largest development lender, after China refused to change its position. The sources said the board of member countries would vote within 30 days to reschedule the annual meeting for another date and location. On Thursday, the United States threatened to derail the meeting unless Beijing granted a visa to Guaido's representative, Harvard economist Ricardo Hausmann. The meeting, which is an annual gathering of the IADB's 48-member countries, was meant to mark the bank's 60th anniversary. Guaido invoked the constitution to assume Venezuela's interim presidency in January, saying the re-election of President Nicolas Maduro was not legitimate. Most Western countries have recognised Guaido as head of state, but Russia and China, among others, back Maduro. The Washington-based IADB voted last week to replace Maduro's board representative with Hausmann. It would have been the first time the IADB held its annual meeting in China. The Asian country has become a major player in Latin America and has poured more than $50 billion into Venezuela over the past decade in oil-for-loan agreements. With relations between Washington and Beijing marred by an acrimonious trade dispute, U.S. officials have expressed concern in recent months at China's growing influence in Latin America - a region Washington has long regarded as its backyard. (Reporting by Lesley Wroughton and Roberta Rampton; editing by Leslie Adler and Rosalba O'Brien) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Jet Airways has also reduced frequencies on seven other overseas routes, mostly from Delhi and Mumbai Mumbai: Jet Airways, on the verge of going belly-up, has suspended operations on as many as 13 more international routes till end-April even as it grounded seven more planes due to non-payment of rentals, taking the number of such aircraft to 54. Besides, the airline has also reduced frequencies on seven other overseas routes, mostly from Delhi and Mumbai, according to airline sources. "... an additional seven aircraft including two planes of JetLite, have been grounded due to non-payment of amounts outstanding to lessors under their respective lease agreements," the airline said in a filing to the stock exchanges late evening on Friday. The company said that as mentioned earlier, it is actively engaged with all its aircraft lessors and is regularly providing them with updates on the efforts taken to improve the liquidity. Earlier, sources said, routes where services have been temporarily withdrawn include Pune-Singapore (seven a week), which was launched with much fanfare late last December, and Pune-Abu Dhabi (seven flights a week). Jet Airways has already suspended services on the Mumbai-Manchester route. Gasping for funds and no bailout on the horizon, the Naresh Goyal-controlled airline has now reduced its operations to one-fourth from over 600 daily flights earlier, with just one-third of its 119 fleet being operational. The airline has discontinued services from Delhi to Abu Dhabi (nine a week), Dammam (14 weekly), Dhaka (11), Hong Kong and Riyadh (seven each a week) up to April 30, said the airline source. Besides, the airline has also suspended services on the Bangalore-Singapore route, where it flies twice daily, till 30 April. The flights which have been suspended from Mumbai for this period include services to Abu Dhabi (12 weekly), Bahrain (4-7 weekly), and Dammam (14 weekly). These services will remain suspended till April 30, as per the source. Similarly, flights on the Mumbai-Hong Kong (7 weekly) route will also not be operated between 23 March and 30 April, while the Kolkata-Dhaka services have also been suspended till 30 April. In addition to this, services from Delhi and Mumbai to Kathmandu, Bangkok, Doha, Kuwait and Singapore have been also reduced significantly. The State Bank of India-led consortium of lenders is working on a resolution plan for the cash-strapped Jet Airways for the last five months. New Delhi: Lenders of Jet Airways are likely to pick up a substantial stake in the debt-laden airline till a new promoter is roped in, sources said. The process of getting a new promoter on board is likely to take another two to three months and once that happens, the banks would offload their stakes, they added. The State Bank of India-led consortium of lenders is working on a resolution plan for the cash-strapped Jet Airways for the last five months. The full service carrier has a debt burden of more than Rs 8,200 crore and needs to make repayments worth up to Rs 1,700 crore by March end. Sources said lenders of Jet Airways might pick up a substantial stake in the airline, a move that would provide comfort in the interim period till new promoters come in. Current promoters of Jet Airways have to exit before a new investor can be roped in. The entry of new promoter is unlikely before two to three months, one of the sources said. The lenders would ultimately sell their stake in Jet Airways to the new promoters as and when they are roped in, they added. Jet Airways Chairman Naresh Goyal holds 51 percent stake while Gulf carrier Etihad Airways has 24 percent shareholding in the airline, which has been in operation for over 25 years. Earlier this week, SBI Chairman Rajnish Kumar along with Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola and Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Nripendra Misra apprised Finance Minister Arun Jaitley about the developments at Jet Airways. The airline is flying just about a third of its fleet, defaulting on interest payments and delaying salaries to pilots. The lenders are trying to revive the carrier by change in management as they feel collapse of the airline would not be good for consumers as well as competition in the industry. They have also decided against taking the airline through insolvency process. On Tuesday, Jet Airways' pilots' union threatened to stop flying from 1 April if their salaries were not paid by 31 March. Earlier this week, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said there may be "further attrition" of flights "in coming weeks". In 2012, Reliance signed a 15-year deal to buy between 300,000 to 400,000 bpd of heavy crude from PDVSA. New Delhi: Reliance Industries, operator of the worlds largest oil refining complex, on Friday said in a statement it was not breaching US sanctions against Venezuela. The company said its recent fuel exports to Venezuela were agreed to before Washington-imposed sanctions in January, and that they were meant to settle Reliances crude oil imports from Venezuela. Reliance said it has been in continuous communication with the US Department of State regarding its activities in Venezuela since the imposition of sanctions. The State Department referred a request for comment to the Treasury Department which did not immediately respond. The Reliance statement came a day after Reuters reported that the conglomerate was selling fuels to Venezuela from India and Europe to sidestep sanctions that bar US-based companies from dealing with state-run PDVSA, according to trading sources and Refinitiv Eikon data.. Reliances few transportation fuel shipments to Venezuela, treated as offsets for crude oil receipts, were committed and in-transit when there were no specific restrictions to such transactions. They were all fuels refined in India, Reliance said. Reliance had been supplying alkylate, diluent naphtha and other fuel to Venezuela through its U.S.-based subsidiary before Washington imposed sanctions aimed at curbing the OPEC members oil exports and ousting socialist President Nicolas Maduro. Reliance, controlled by billionaire businessman Mukesh Ambani, has significant exposure to the financial system of the United States, where it operates subsidiaries linked to its oil and telecom businesses, among others. Additional Venezuela-related sanctions are possible in the future, as U.S. President Donald Trumps administration has not yet tried to prevent companies based outside the United States from buying Venezuelan oil. Reliance said it had been transparent with US authorities and provided detailed feedback to Washington as they were formulating and adjusting policy regarding product shipments to Venezuela. Reliance not only has complied with US sanctions laws, but also has done its best to adjust its dealings with Venezuela on a voluntary basis to reflect the ongoing changes in US policy, the statement added. Reliance reiterated that it has stopped shipments of diluent naphtha to Venezuela, and has reduced its purchases of Venezuelan crude oil to well below its contracted levels. In 2012, Reliance signed a 15-year deal to buy between 300,000 to 400,000 bpd of heavy crude from PDVSA. Ship tracking data show that Reliances average purchases from Venezuela were less than 300,000 bpd in 2018 and in the first two months of this year. (Disclaimer: Reliance Industries Ltd is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd which publishes Firstpost) By Cindy Silviana and Tracy Rucinski JAKARTA/CHICAGO (Reuters) - Indonesian airline Garuda plans to cancel a $6 billion order for Boeing 737 MAX jets because some passengers say they would be frightened to board the plane after two fatal crashes, although industry analysts said the deal was already in doubt. Still, Garuda is the first airline to publicly announce plans to scrap a 737 MAX order since the world's entire fleet of one of Boeing's signature aircraft was grounded last week. By Cindy Silviana and Tracy Rucinski JAKARTA/CHICAGO (Reuters) - Indonesian airline Garuda plans to cancel a $6 billion order for Boeing 737 MAX jets because some passengers say they would be frightened to board the plane after two fatal crashes, although industry analysts said the deal was already in doubt. Still, Garuda is the first airline to publicly announce plans to scrap a 737 MAX order since the world's entire fleet of one of Boeing's signature aircraft was grounded last week. In the United States, American Airlines pilots prepared to test Boeing Co's planned software upgrade for an anti-stall system on MAX simulators this weekend, saying they want their own safety guarantees on the fix. The 737 MAX was Boeing's fastest selling jet before an Ethiopian Airlines crash near Addis Ababa on March 10, five months after a Lion Air jet plunged into the sea in Indonesia. Ethiopia and French investigators have pointed to "clear similarities" between the two crashes, which killed 346 people, putting pressure on Boeing and U.S. regulators to come up with an adequate fix. However, questions have emerged about how much is known about the cause of the Ethiopian crash, 11 days after black box data and voice recorders were found. Ethiopia has shared limited information with foreign investigators, Reuters reported on Thursday, and an industry source said Boeing had not yet received any data. None of the parties agreed to comment. Ethiopia said on Thursday it had started reviewing data with U.S. and French safety investigation authorities. Garuda CEO Ari Askhara told Reuters on Friday: "Many passengers told us they were afraid to get on a MAX 8." However, the airline had been reconsidering its order for 49 of the narrowbody jets before the Ethiopian crash, including potentially swapping some for widebody Boeing models. Southeast Asia faces a glut of narrowbody aircraft like the 737 MAX and rival Airbus A320neo at a time of slowing global economic growth and high fuel costs. "They have been re-looking at their fleet plan anyway so this is an opportunity to make some changes that otherwise may be difficult to do," CAPA Centre for Aviation Chief Analyst Brendan Sobie said. Indonesia's Lion Air has also said it might cancel 737 MAX aircraft, though industry sources say it is also struggling to absorb the number of planes on order. RETROFITS No direct link has been proven between the crashes, which killed a total of 346 people, but attention has focussed on whether pilots had the correct information about the "angle of attack" at which the wing slices through the air. Boeing now plans to make compulsory a light to alert pilots when sensor readings of the angle of attack do not match - meaning at least one must be wrong -, according to two officials briefed on the matter. Investigators suspect a faulty angle-of-attack reading led the doomed Lion Air jet's computer to believe it had stalled, prompting its anti-stall system, called MCAS, repeatedly to push the plane's nose down. Norwegian Air played down the significance of the compulsory light, saying that, according to Boeing, it would not have been able to prevent erroneous signals that Lion Air pilots received before their new 737 MAX plane crashed in October. Boeing must be cautious with how it characterizes the safety alert, risking legal claims by saying it could have made a difference in the crash while not wanting to suggest that the retrofit is meaningless, legal experts said. The Lion Air plane did not have the warning light installed, and Ethiopian Airlines did not immediately comment on whether its crashed plane had the alert. But the Ethiopian carrier, whose reputation along with Boeing's is at stake, issued a statement on Friday emphasising the modernity of its safety and training systems, with more than $500 million invested in infrastructure in the past five years. The Ethiopian crash has set off one of the widest inquiries in aviation history and cast a shadow over the Boeing 737 MAX model intended to be a standard for decades. Boeing did not comment on the plan to make the safety feature standard, but separately said it was moving quickly to make software changes and expected the upgrade to be approved by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in coming weeks. Chicago-based Boeing will also retrofit older planes with the cockpit warning light, the officials told Reuters. Experts said the change needs regulatory approval and could take weeks or months. Regulators in Europe and Canada have said they will conduct their own reviews of any new systems. Since the Ethiopian crash, Boeing shares have fallen 14 percent. Pressure has mounted on the company from U.S. legislators, who are also expected to question the FAA. The company faces a criminal investigation by the U.S. Justice Department as well. Several lawsuits have already been filed on behalf of victims of the Lion Air crash referring to the Ethiopian accident. Boeing declined to comment on the lawsuits. (Reporting by Cindy Silviana in JAKARTA and Tracy Rucinski in CHICAGO; Additional reporting by Terje Solsvik in Oslo, Jamie Freed in Singapore, Bernadette Christina Munthe in Jakarta, Maggie Fick and Jason Neely in Addis Ababa, Tim Hepher in Paris, and Eric M. Johnson in Seattle; Writing by Sayantani Ghosh, Georgina Prodhan and Tracy Rucinski; Editing by Mark Potter and Grant McCool) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. The Yasin Malik-led Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) was banned on Friday for a series of violent acts and being in the forefront of separatist activities in the militancy-hit state since 1988, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said. New Delhi: The Yasin Malik-led Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) was banned on Friday for a series of violent acts and being in the forefront of separatist activities in the militancy-hit state since 1988, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said. Listing out its subversive and violent activities, Gauba said the JKLF spearheaded the separatist ideology in Kashmir Valley and the action was taken following the "zero tolerance" policy of the central government against terrorism. "Murders of Kashmiri Pandits by JKLF in 1989 triggered their exodus from the valley. Malik was the mastermind behind the purging of Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir Valley and is responsible for their genocide. "The JKLF has many serious cases registered against it. This organisation is responsible for murder of four Indian Air Force personnel and kidnapping of Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of the then Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed in the VP Singh government," he told a press conference here after a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security took the decision to ban the separatist group. Gauba said the central government has followed the policy of "zero tolerance" against terrorism and has acted strongly against terrorists and the securities forces have been given free hand to deal with terrorism. "The central government, in its pursuit of strong action against terrorism, has today declared JKLF (Yasin faction) as an unlawful association under the provisions of Section 3(1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967," he said. Gauba said the central government is committed to relentlessly pursuing the policy of curbing the activities of secessionist organisations which are threat to the unity and integrity of the country and the NIA and the Enforcement Directorate are taking strong action against these organisations. "The JKLF is also responsible for illegal funnelling of funds for fomenting terrorism. The JKLF is actively involved in raising of funds and its distribution to Hurriyat cadres and stone-pelters to fuel unrest in Kashmir Valley as well as for subversive activities. "Activities of the JKLF pose a serious threat to the security of the country and are prejudicial to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of India. The organisation has been actively and continuously encouraging feelings of enmity and hatred against the lawfully established government as well as armed rebellion," he said. Malik is at present lodged in Kot Balwal jail in Jammu, and is likely to face trial in the three-decade-old case of kidnapping of Rubaya Sayeed and gunning down of four IAF personnel in Srinagar. The JKLF was founded by Pakistani national Amanullah Khan in mid-1970 at Birmingham in the United Kingdom and came into prominence in 1971 when its member hijacked an Indian Airlines plane flying from Srinagar to Jammu. A total of 37 FIRs have been registered by the Jammu and Kashmir Police against JKLF and two cases, including that of murder of IAF personnel, were registered by the CBI. The NIA has also registered a case against the JKLF, which is under investigation. It is evident from these that JKLF continues to be actively engaged in supporting and inciting secessionist and terrorist activities. The organisation was also involved in the kidnapping and killing of Ravindra Mhatre, an Indian diplomat posted the UK, in 1984. A week later, India executed Maqbool Bhat, a JKLF activist, who had been sentenced to death. This is the second organisation in Jammu and Kashmir which has been banned this month. Earlier, the Centre had banned the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir. Gauba said the review of security of Jammu and Kashmir-based separatists would continue. The government withdrew security of several separatist leaders in Jammu and Kashmir after a review recently. The district of Barmer, on the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan, has been drought-hit almost continuously for the past ten years. Editor's note: Rajasthans relationship with summer is not a pleasant one. The shortage of water in the region only adds to the misery of the people. Even before the onset of summer, over 5,000 villages in nine districts in Rajasthan Barmer, Churu, Pali, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jalore, Jodhpur, Hanumangarh and Nagaur were declared drought-affected by the state government. The drought in this area affects the economy of the region as employment options dry up and people start migrating to neighbouring states like Gujarat to survive. This five-part series will examine the reasons and problems related to one of the worst drought conditions in the region. This is the second part of the series. *** Barmer: The district of Barmer, on the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan, has been drought-hit almost continuously for the past ten years. At a time when lack of rainfall has left fields dry and crops wasted, government schemes launched with tall promises of covering farmers expenditure in such situations havent yielded much. Instead, it is insurance firms which benefit from schemes such as the ambitious Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (prime minister's crop insurance scheme). Insurance firms in Barmer have made gains of more than Rs 120 crore through this scheme since 2017-18, according to officials of the agriculture department. As per the provisions of the scheme, a farmer has to pay only two percent of the total premium amount, while the state and central governments bear 50 percent each of the rest of the amount. In Barmer, 4,03,637 farmers were covered under the scheme. Including farmers share of Rs 20.69 crore, state and central governments had paid Rs 378.79 crore to the insurance company Tata AIG Pvt Ltd. Based on the crop assessment report, when the district administration submitted to the insurance firm claims worth Rs 1,034.36 crore, it offered to pay up only 25 percent of the claims amounting to Rs 258.59 crore, which is Rs 120.20 crore less than the premium paid to the company under PMFBY. Tall claims fall flat The PMFBY was launched with tall claims in 2015, promising farmers economical insurance cover even in case of bad monsoons or crop damage. A crop assessment report submitted by the state government to the Centre claims that crops on 12,66,418 hectares of land, out of the total cultivated area of 15,18,190 hectares were damaged due to erratic monsoons. According to data with the agriculture department, this year, bajra was sown on 8,80,609 hectares, moth and mung (pulses) were sown on 3,04,910 hectares, gwar on 2,95,661 hectares and groundnuts were sown on 3,478 hectares of land. Officials of the agricultural department said that under the PMFBY, Tata AIG Pvt Ltd had covered approximately 35 percent of the total cultivated area, which comes to around 5,19,630.3 hectares, including bajra on 3,08,213.15 hectares against a total cultivated area of 8,80,609 hectares, pulses on 1,03,481.35 hectares against a total cultivated area of 3,09,410 hectares, jowar on 1,03,481.35 hectares against a total cultivated area of 2,95,661 hectares and groundnut on 1217.3 hectares against a total cultivated area of 3,478 hectares of land. Officials said that the company had announced that it would pay Rs 19,000 per hectare for bajra, Rs 14,500 per hectare for moth and mung, Rs 20,500 per hectare for jowar and Rs 37,000 per hectare for groundnut. The district administration had claimed Rs 646 crore for bajra, 199.27 crore for moth and mung, Rs 181.50 crore for jowar and Rs 7.59 crore for groundnut. Cut-off clause duping farmers Barmer district collector Himanshu Gupta said that the amount offered by the insurance firm is not justified, as the region is facing severe drought and farmers are expecting relief from the crop insurance scheme. Gupta said that district authorities have informed the state government about this anomaly on the part of the insurance firm, and the state government has sought the Centres intervention in the matter. Sources in the agriculture department said that the insurance company has filed an appeal before the Union agriculture ministry, arguing that there was no rainfall and hence, no sowing in Barmer until 15 August. It mentioned that the cut-off date for the submission of insurance proposals was 15 August, implying that farmers will get compensation only for crops sown before the said date. According to the norms, if no sowing has been done till the cut-off date, insurance firms pay only 25 percent of the claim. Contradicting the companys claim, officials in Barmer said that crops were sown on 15,18,190 hectares before the cut-off date, out of which crops on 12, 66,418 hectares got damaged due to the bad monsoon. They say that farmers claims in such a scenario are justified and they should be paid. Deputy manager for Tata AIG Pvt Ltd in Rajasthan, Shailendra Srivastava, refused to comment when contacted. Excluding 2010-2011, Barmer has been facing droughts over the last 10 years. There are crop losses between 50 and 100 percent in 2,694 villages. (The author is a Barmer-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com) For decades, traditional fishermen like Laxmidhar Behera, 45, of Bhusandapur village, which is connected to the lake by a small canal, have been spending each day on their small boats throwing out their fishing nets in the hope of a good catch of a variety of fish indigenous to the lake. 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 *** Traditional lifestyles and occupations are under threat near Odishas Chilika lake. Rampant overfishing and lack of any regulation to protect the lakes unique ecosystem are threatening the livelihoods of around two lakh fishermen living on the banks of the lake, forcing many of them to migrate to other coastal areas like Gujarat and other southern Indian states. Spread over 11,00 square kilometre area and spreading across three districts Khurda, Puri and Ganjam the lake falls under the Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha constituency. It is the countrys largest brackish water lagoon, known more as a bird sanctuary that attracts tourists from across the country than as the only source of livelihood for the 15,000 fishermen families living in villages around the lake. We visited four villages - Barkul, Balugaon, Kalupada Ghat and Bhusandhpur - on the banks of the lake in Khurda district. Most of the families in these villages depend on income derived from catching, processing and selling their catch. While each village had its own local issues of lack of basic infrastructure like sanitation, drinking water, public transport and health care, the common problems all villagers highlighted were the dwindling catch, restrictions imposed by the government like allowing fishing in only designated areas and banning gheris (traps set using bamboo and bigger nets to catch fish, especially prawns and shrimps), the threats from the fishing mafia which does not allow local fishermen to venture into the deeper parts of the lake, lack of any state-funded schemes for fishermen and the general administrative apathy towards the fishermen community. For decades, traditional fishermen like Laxmidhar Behera, 45, of Bhusandapur village, which is connected to the lake by a small canal, have been spending each day on their small boats throwing out their fishing nets in the hope of a good catch of a variety of fish indigenous to the lake. "The quantity of fish in the lake has been falling which has affected our income, said Laxmidhar Behara. Now, after spending the whole day in the lake, we are able to catch just 4-5 kgs. Moreover, the varieties of fish have also decreased. We dont see the Elish variety which used to be a popular item from here. Traders in Kalupadaghat, a local fish market from where the Chilika fish are sent to Cuttack, Bhubaneswar and West Bengal confirmed this. If we compare the quantity traded over the last 10 years, it has indeed come down, said Baijayant, a trader in the market. Laxmidhar said that with incomes falling and no alternate source of earning available, many fishermen have migrated or given up fishing altogether. Like Muli Behera, who was forced to take up driving an autoer. Less catch and less income forced me to start something other than fishing, said Muli Behara. Now many from this area are switching their profession or going to Kerala, Gujarat, Surat, Mumbai and Chennai and work as labourers or fisherman." One study in Barakul village showed that over 30 percent of households had migrated since 2001. Sanjay Jali, a villager from Barakul told us that the number of fishermen in his village has come down drastically. "The catch from the sairat areas (near the banks of the lake) have come down while venturing deeper into the lake exposes us to threats from the powerful fishing mafias, said Sanjay. Another fisherman Mahanta Das, said If by chance we venture deeper into the lake they do not hesitate to fire rubber bullets on us. Many fishermen from our area have suffered injuries. It is conditions like these that forced Prasanta Behera, a fisherman from Kalupada Ghat, to decide three years ago that hed have to leave home in order to make a living and support his family. Every year he moves to Kerala for four months to find work as a labourer. "Despite spending hours in the water I was not earning enough. Some of my friends who were working in Kerala suggested that I join them. In 2016, I first went to Kerala and since then it has been a regular affair. I work in farmlands and with fisherman in Kerala and earn good amount; better than what I can from Chilika." The region has been a stronghold of the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), but villagers said that the five-time sitting MP from this seat, Prasanna Kumar Patsani and the local MLA, also from the BJD, have done nothing to improve conditions in the villages and its residents. Now, with elections just a few weeks away, the politicians and their parties are back to woo these villagers with the usual unkept promises. Villages are plastered with posters and flags of different parties while youths with party flags roam around in bikes campaigning for their candidates. Glaring govt apathy Fishermen communities are very low on the governments priority said Ranjan Panda, an expert on climate and environment. "There are no schemes specifically for the fishermen communities to help them increase their earnings. Also, unregulated over-fishing by commercial players and other climate-related reasons have affected the livelihoods of traditional fishermen living on the periphery of the lake. The state government too has not come up with single comprehensive legislation in the last 25 years on conserving and regulating fishing on Chilika. "Demands for legislation on Chilika have been raised since the 1990s, said Jaya Krushna Panigrahi, an environmentalist. "There was a Chilika Bachao Movement which went nowhere. In 1994 a panel was constituted which suggested framing a law on Chilika affairs, which has been ignored. Even the Planning Commission in 2008 in a report had suggested legislation and other measures to protect the whole Chilika ecosystem. This report too remains on paper, as the lake and the ecosystem it supports degrade. The Chilika Development Authority (CDA) is the nodal agency meant to manage activities on the lake and take conservation measures. CDA officials say they have attempted to tackle the problems of maintaining the lake and the livelihood of the fishermen. I struggled a lot to remove the illegal gheries from Chilika, said Sasmita Lenka, who till last year was the CDAs chief executive. The fish mafia who were active in Chilika started threatening me, with the support of some villagers. But it didnt bother me and I tried my best to remove all those gheries. Sasmita added that I believe Chilika is natures blessing and it is our responsibility to protect it. But some government officials were against me. I hope whatever I have done at Chilika doesnt get wasted. Sibaprasad Parida, former scientist of Regional Museum of Natural History also believes that with the removal of some illegal gheris the condition of Chilika has improved a bit. He also claimed that seasonal variations also interfere with fish population in the lake. Now, the blame game is on, with Opposition parties accusing the BJD of failing to tackle the fishermen issues. Their patronage to commercial fish mafias slowly destroyed the prospects of traditional fishermen dependent on Chilika, said Odisha Congress Spokesperson Satyaprakash Nayak. The BJD in turn is blaming its neighbour Chhattisgarh for the deterioration of the lake and plight of its fishermen. BJD Parliamentary Party Leader Bhartruhari Mahtab said in the Lok Sabha on 22 December, 2017 that In the past few years, the flow of sweet water in the River Mahanadi has been choked by Chhattisgarh. In non-monsoon times, the flow is very little, causing higher salinity in the Bhitarkanika area and Chilika Lake, which is endangering the species in the lake." All of which is of little comfort to the fishermen. Who this time are likely to use their voting strength to highlight their cause. The author is a Khurda-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters A large swathe of India's security establishment believe in imposing a cost on Pakistan for exporting terror to India. They warn against holding any dialogue with Pakistan till such time as Pakistan-sponsored terrorism did not end. A large swathe of India's security establishment had reached near unanimity on how the government should approach Pakistan. They called for imposing a cost on Pakistan for exporting terror to India and warned against holding any dialogue with Pakistan till such time as Pakistan-sponsored terrorism did not end. That was five years ago when forty one security experts including Ajit Doval were signatories to this document warning that the only way forward for India was to adopt a muscular policy towards its neighbour. A statement to this effect, titled Indo-Pak Relations by Members of Indias Strategic Community, was also issued. Doval of course went on to become the National Security Adviser under the Modi regime but these experts had then stated unanimously that 'it was time policies were devised that would impose a cost on Pakistan for its export of terror to India and thus change the cost-benefit calculus of these policies and actions. A proactive approach by India towards Pakistan must be the order of the day, as it will yield us much better results than those garnered by policies of appeasement which have regrettably been pursued by us for years.' Former high commissioner to Pakistan Satish Chandra one of the main architects of this document believes that India has no choice but to take their earlier document one step forward by coming down on Pakistan with a heavy hand. "We need to impose a heavy cost on Pakistan for its policy of exporting terror to us. Military action is just one of the actions that India must resort to," Chandra, who was also India's former deputy national security advisor, said. Elaborating on this he said, "India needs to adopt a multi- pronged approach using all elements of state power military, diplomatic, economic, and commercial, in both an overt and covert mode, to impose such pain on Pakistan that it is compelled to give up its involvement with terrorist activities. Such a policy would need to be sustained over several months and even years if necessary," said Chandra. For one, notice should be given for suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty citing Article 62 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, which provides for the same in the event of a fundamental change of circumstances under which the treaty was concluded. Pakistan's export of terror is reason enough for us to abrogate the treaty,' he maintains. He further believed that Pakistan's faultlines should be ruthlessly exploited especially in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa . "We need to start a campaign to project Pakistan as a terrorist state and call for imposition of sanctions against it. This would necessitate declaring it as a terrorist state and breaking diplomatic relations with it. We should also disavow the Durand Line and start building dams for hydro-electricity and irrigation on the tributaries of the Indus in Afghanistan as a part of its assistance programmes to Afghanistan," he said. Chandra also believed that India should opt for closer ties with Afghanistan and Iran in fighting terrorism as both these countries were also victims of 'Pakistan's terror factories.' India must also start an international campaign to project Pakistan as a terrorist state and call for imposition of sanctions against it, including the breaking of diplomatic ties, he said. Pakistan's human rights violations in these areas as well as in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir must be given widespread publicity including at international fora. Chandra maintained the time had come for us to 'systematically highlight the human rights violations routinely committed by Pakistan against its own people, in the Human Rights Council in Geneva and in the UN in New York. If we could do so against Sri Lanka, why not against Pakistan ?" he asked. Chandra further believed that contingency plans for covert action, and if need be focused strikes, should be developed so that following any further Pakistan sponsored terrorist actions against us, these action could be automatically triggered within a matter of hours. He also believed that as part of a slew of action against our neighbour, "We must prevail upon the European Union to no longer provide duty free access to Pakistani textile exports which they had earlier given with our consent. We should undercut Pakistans rice and textile exports, withdraw from TAPI, press the Financial Action Task Force to place Pakistan on its black list, and use our influence in the international and regional financial institutions to stall financial support to Pakistan," he said. Another step against them would be to come up with a broad asylum policy to shelter those who suffer human rights abuse in Pakistan. Chandra believes, "We need to devise an asylum policy within the framework of which it should provide shelter to those who are the victims of state terror in Pakistan, whether they belong to religious, sectarian or ethnic minorities. After all, if India can provide asylum to people from all over our neighbourhood why not to those from Pakistan?" he said. Most security analysts believe that Indias dealings with Pakistan must be governed by its nature and its approach to us. Since its very inception in 1947, Pakistan has regarded India as an existential enemy and has accordingly bent all its energies to hurt us. Chandra believes, "This is the result of Pakistans internal dynamics including its own identity crisis. India's efforts to befriend Pakistan and assuage its concerns through a variety of magnanimous gestures such as the Indus Waters Treaty, the return without any quid pro quo of 93,000 prisoners and over 5,000 square miles of territory captured in the 1971 conflict, and it MFN treatment have not stopped Pakistan government from hitting out at us. This is because anti Indianism is a part of their DNA and no matter what concessions we make, an adversarial relationship with the latter is inevitable." Would such an escalation see a further hardening from the Pakistani end and could accelerated tensions result in a war and possibly a nuclear conflagration ? Chandra believes, "A nuclear conflagration is a red herring. Nuclear things (wars) dont happen. Pakistan will be very, very careful on this issue. One option before us is the option we have taken in the past that we keep getting punished or the other is that we take them on. Today the security situation has worsened and there are sleeper cells in every one of our cities," Chandra warned. "We also need to appreciate that given Pakistan suffers from a flawed DNA and dialogue will not induce them to bring down terrorism. We have been talking to Pakistan for the last 70 years to no avail. Dialogue only serves Pakistans purpose to lull us into a sense of complacency and to persuade the international community about its peaceful intentions so that they can continue to receive military aid from them," he said. Some of the signatories of the earlier document included Air Marshal Satish Inamdar, former vice chief of Air Staff, Brig Gurmeet Kanwal, former Director Centre for Land Warfare Studies, DR Kaarthikeyan, former Director, CBI, Satish Chandra, Deputy NSA, Ambassador Rajiv Dogra, Major General ( retd) Ashok Mehta, CD Sahay, former secretary RAW, G Parthasarthy, Gen VN Sharma, former Chief of Army Staff, and former foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal. Most of these signatories believe that backsliding from the hard line approach adopted by the Modi government would be unwise at this stage. This would reinforce Pakistans conviction that India lacks the will to sustain such an approach and thereby encourage it to continue with its export of terror in a business as usual mode. They also believe that an inconsistency on Indias part would damage our credibility in the international front insisting that such a policy be both multidimensional and also be market by incessant ratcheting up of pressure on Pakistan whenever so required. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sent a letter to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan, greeting people of the neighbouring country on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia, official sources said Friday New Delhi/Islamabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sent a letter to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan, greeting people of the neighbouring country on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia, official sources said Friday. The prime minister, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Pakistan's Prime Minister Khan, in a tweet, welcome Modi's message and said the time has come to begin a comprehensive dialogue between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including Kashmir. "I welcome PM Modi's message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people," Khan tweeted. Modi's message to Khan came in the midst of severe strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the Pulwama attack and the subsequent air strikes by India on a JeM terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot. Significantly, India Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi to mark Pakistan's National Day, objecting to invites extended to several separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir for the event. The official sources said the prime minister sends a customary message on National Days to other heads of state and government and added that his message to Khan highlighted the importance of a terror-free South asia. They further said it was an unsigned letter which goes to Pakistan on its National Day as a standard diplomatic practice. Such letters are sent to all countries with whom India has diplomatic relations. Earlier, Khan also tweeted PM Modi's message. "Received msg from PM Modi: 'I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence'," Khan said. Pakistani envoy Sohail Mahmood, in an address at the reception in Delhi, said Pakistan and India need to consolidate the process of de-escalation and stabilise the ties against further shocks, hoping that the "long winter" in bilateral relations would come to an early end. He said both the countries should act with "wisdom" to normalise ties, asserting that "coercive measures" have not worked in the past and will not work in the future. The envoy said a key takeaway from recent developments was that a lack of engagement creates "dangerous vacuum and serious risks" for relations between the two neighbours, adding Pakistan has "turned a corner" in its fight against the scourge of terrorism. He said the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, return of the two High Commissioners to their respective missions, and bilateral meetings on the Kartarpur Corridor "are steps in a positive direction". Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian Air Force fighter jets bombed terror group JeM's training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan on February 26. Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations the next day. However, the IAF thwarted their plans. The Indian strike on the JeM camp came 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed. Under the Revised National TB Control Program (RNTCP), a patient is given an identification card that tracks their site of infection, severity and treatment course, notifying, or adding them onto a national database. In 2018, over 4.2 lakh patients were notified in Uttar Pradesh, the highest in the country. Between 1 January and 15 March of this year alone, over 68,000 people have been notified in the state. I cough out blood, said Ramsevak matter-of-factly. Against the white of his vest, his bony body stands out like an uncared for aberration. A resident of Daharra village in Bundelkhands Mahoba district, Ramsevak is suffering from tuberculosis. Tuberculosis, or TB, is a bacterial airborne infection that primarily affects the lungs. India which makes up 17.7% of the entire planets population shoulders the largest TB burden, accounting for 27% of all TB patients in the world. Although entirely curable and preventable, in India, one person dies due to TB every minute. [TB] spreads because of dust, thats what the doctor says, said Daharra resident Ram Kishore. Illustrating how it is not a new problem in the village, he informed us how he lost his elder brother to TB some 15 years ago. He added helplessly, The doctor has asked us not to work in the dust, but it is everywhere here, outside and inside our homes, so what can we do? And its not like we can stop working. As a result, People in our village often fall sick because of TB, confirmed Ramsevak. I was coughing out blood, said Sumitra, I'm telling you honestly, in a straight-forward manner, not hiding it. Her clarification points to a long history of stigma attached to the disease because of its highly contagious nature. The medicines I got from the local government dispensary were only for the swelling in my lungs, and that too didn't get better. They tell me to go to Naugaon now, she added, referring to the nearest private medical facility 20-odd kilometres away from Daharra. In India, the Revised National TB Control Program (RNTCP) provides free TB treatment at all government medical facilities through the DOTS system, recommended by the World Health Organisation. Under this system, a patient is given an identification card that tracks their site of infection, severity and treatment course, notifying, or adding them onto a national database. In 2018, over 4.2 lakh patients were notified in Uttar Pradesh, the highest in the country. Between 1 January and 15 March of this year alone, over 68,000 people have been notified in the state. Despite the fact that government treatment is free of cost, Sumitra isnt the only one who has had to travel or resort to private healthcare to find treatment options. Ramsevak went as far as Kanpur for his treatment, he told us. First, I consulted at the local Mahoba government hospital. The medication went on for three months or so. But Ramsevak did not get better, Thats when they referred me to Kanpur. He added, despairingly, I got tired of not getting better after months of treatment. Then I went to Naugaon. Private healthcare of course is expensive. Astha, a young girl in Daharra, who lost her father to TB in January earlier this year, is now struggling to tackle her mothers deteriorating health, who is suffering from the same affliction. We had to borrow money for the treatment, she said, her voice a faint whisper, broken by her battles with TB, but even then they didnt get better. The burden is currently being borne by her older brother, who, according to her, has taken loans for the treatment, Private care is very expensive. Hes working to pay off the debts alongside. Yes, weve been borrowing money for my treatment, said Ramsevak, Weve had to mortgage some land. The mortgage brought him the few lakhs he needed, but Ramsevak pointed out, Almost everything has already been spent on my treatment. Ramsevaks TB ID card informs us that he has undergone treatment for TB previously that had failed him. While drug-resistant and multidrug-resistant TB have frequently been encountered in India, the DOTS Plus system, made available throughout India in 2014, is meant to tackle exactly these strains of the disease. The government doubled down on its efforts to address the problem of TB in the country, with the ambitious goal to eradicate the disease by 2025 publicised by a trendy #IndiaVsTB ad campaign with Amitabh Bachchan being roped in for promotions. To ensure maximum effectiveness of TB treatment, the government also launched the Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) in 2017, which gives Rs 500 monthly to every notified TB patient in order to ensure good nutrition. The government-run schemes have benefitted so many people, said district in-charge G R Ratmel enthusiastically, Not only are patients coming forward themselves, but they are also getting treated and are taken care of. But one of the biggest problems seem to be the utter lack of information and awareness amongst those suffering. Despite DOTS being the primary TB control strategy in the country since 1997, Ram Kishore gave a blank stare when we asked him about it. No, I dont know what that is, he said. He had heard about the NPY he said, even if it was a vague response, People tell me that the government gives Rs 500 during TB treatment, but I havent ever received a single rupee, nothing reflected in my bank account or anything. But according to Ratmel: For the patients in my jurisdiction, everyone has got paid [under the NPY]. There must only be 8-10 people who havent received the money yet, and thats because they dont have bank accounts, but even for them were doing what we can. He insisted, We have paid everyone through the portal. No one is left out. NPY though, it can safely be said, has been struggling to gain traction. As on 1 January this year, out of 20.94 lakh eligible beneficiaries, only 42% of beneficiaries had received the benefit under the scheme. And this was after registration drives were held across the country, including in Uttar Pradesh. Ratmel rifled through some documents to state, 1119 patients in our district, in 2018, were diagnosed, and all of them had been put on treatment. He added nonchalantly, But 33 of those patients died. According to the annual TB Report by the RNTCP, there were 843 public sector notifications in Mahoba in the same year, but only 52% had treatment initiated. With 16% of these notified patients returning for TB treatment, it is clear that this is a recurring problem. When asked what the administration is doing to raise awareness about the disease and the schemes, Ratmel said, We advise patients and their families to make sure that the infected person covers their mouth when they cough or sneeze because it is contagious. With 33 deaths last year in just one district, his intervention seems modest at best. It certainly doesnt seem enough to reduce the incidence of new TB cases by 95% in the next decade, which is what would be necessary for the government to meet its 2025 elimination promise. To put this in perspective, India reduced TB cases by 22% between 2005 and 2015, despite the national implementation of DOTS, the expansion into the treatment of drug-resistant TB and increased central budgets. According to multiple studies, the first line of defence against the spread of TB is raising awareness in communities which is exactly what is missing in geographies such as Daharra in Mahoba. Here, the poor stay afflicted and are broken. Please help me if you can, begged Sumitra, halfway through our interview, breaking down into sobs, I implore you. Khabar Lahariya is a women-only network of rural reporters from Bundelkhand. On 22 March, 2018, a Dehradun forest division team seized meat, bones and leopard skin near Haripur Kalan, a village on the boundaries of the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. An official inquiry report in a poaching case of 2018 has named 11 forest officials, including the field director of the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, Sanatan Sonkar, for purportedly fabricating information and hiding proofs of poaching. On 13 February, 2019, the chief conservator of forests (CCF) Manoj Chandran submitted the report to a judicial magistrate in Dehradun, the Uttarakhand High Court, the state government and the principal secretary (forests) for further action. When contacted by this reporter, Sonkar said, I am not aware of any such report and so would not like to make any comments. Heres where it all started: On 22 March, 2018, a Dehradun forest division team seized meat, bones and leopard skin near Haripur Kalan, a village on the boundaries of the park that falls under the Dehradun district. The Wildlife Institute of India later confirmed that the bones and meat belonged to three leopards and two tigers, and not one leopard as was reported. Soon after the seizure, the then principal conservator of forests (PCCF) DVS Khati appointed Manoj Chandran as an investigating officer and asked him to submit a detailed report. In his interim report of August 2018, Chandran had been able identify the connivance of five forest department officials (the field director Sonkar, wildlife warden Komal Singh, range officer Anup Gosain, deputy range officer Ashok Singh and forest guard Pravesh Kumar) and sought permission from the principal secretary (forest) to charge the officials under Section 197 of CrPC (prosecution of judges and public servants). While the investigation was going on, Chandran was removed from the case. Speaking to Firstpost, he said, I have submitted my report of over 500 pages report to the court, and I am not supposed to share the details with the media. A series of malicious events lies behind the alleged involvement of officials at the level of field director and warden. From 2014 onwards, leopard(s) claimed the lives of more than 16 people and injured 11 people in and around the Motichur range (from Raipur to Haripur Kalan) of the tiger reserve. The failure of the forest department in culling the man-eating leopard (or leopards) has outraged the locals. The forest department removed 11 leopards from the area, without identifying the real man-eater. As a result of this, the attacks continued. The report reveals that to deal with the pressure from the locals and the government to eliminate the problem animal, the range officer of the area Vikas Rawat appointed poacher Nareshnath. The killings were happening with the consent of Rawat, with the mutual understanding that the objective was to minimise the man-animal conflict. Poachers made money by selling and trading the body parts of the leopards. The final report has named 11 people from the forest department and 14 poachers. Rawat said The range from where the skin has been seized doesnt fall under my area. Five investigation officers of the forest department have been changed in this case. This particular report has recommendations for filing a case against me under 20 Sections of the IPC and a Section of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. I will speak about it only after taking the opinion of my lawyer. On 1 March, 2019, wildlife activist Dinesh Pandey sent a notice to the principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife) to take necessary action on Chandrans report within 60 days, else a case under Section 55 of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 will be filed in the court. Speaking about the case, Pandey said, It is extremely sad that instead of taking action against Sonkar, the forest department has now promoted him. The present case is a serious one for two reasons. Firstly, it highlights that the Indian leopard is facing a degradation of habitat, and threats due to poachers and man-animal conflict. Secondly, it also foregrounds the involvement of forest officials in the killings of leopards. Man-animal conflict, especially man-leopard conflict, is not new to Uttarakhand. However, the number of cases has increased in recent times, and one of the main reasons for this is urbanisation. The cutting of trees and the degradation of forests has brought leopards close to human habitat. Jim Corbett, in the concluding chapter of his best-selling book The man-eating leopards of Rudraprayag referred to the leopard as the best-hated and the most feared animal in all India, whose only crime not against the laws of nature, but against the laws of man was that he had shed human blood, with no object of terrorising man, but only in order that he might live These lines are still relevant in the present context. Corbett shot dead the famous man-eating leopard of Rudraprayag in 1926. In the hilly state of Uttarakhand, the leopard is still fighting the last battle for its survival. The Indian leopard is listed as vulnerable on the International Union for the Conservation of Natures Red List and is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. According to the Wildlife Protection Society of India, 1,593 leopards were poached across India in the past 10 years. Is it high time India needs a Project Leopard? By Roberta Rampton WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (Reuters) - U.S. By Roberta Rampton WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday reversed sanctions imposed on North Korea by the U.S. Treasury Department just a day earlier and the White House said he was doing so because he "likes" North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and did not consider them necessary. "It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large-scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea," Trump tweeted from his Florida resort of Mar-a-Lago. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" There were no new U.S. sanctions on North Korea announced on Friday and Trump was apparently referring to the U.S. Treasury's blacklisting on Thursday of two Chinese shipping companies that it said helped North Korea evade sanctions over its nuclear weapons programme. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders did not specify which sanctions Trump spoke of, but said: "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary." The White House and the U.S. Treasury did not immediately respond to requests for clarification. The State Department referred queries to the White House. Trump's Twitter post appeared not only at odds with the Treasury Department, but with his own national security adviser, John Bolton, a hardliner who North Korea blamed for the breakdown of a second Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi last month. The sanctions on the Chinese shippers announced on Thursday were the first since the summit, which collapsed over conflicting demands by North Korea for sanctions relief and by the United States for North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons. Trump has stressed his good personal relationship with Kim and his administration has stressed its willingness to reengage with North Korea. There has been no sign of direct contact between Washington and Pyongyang since the Feb. 27-28 meeting in Hanoi, however, and North Korea has warned it is considering suspending talks and may rethink a freeze on missile and nuclear tests, in place since 2017, unless Washington makes concessions.Hours after Thursday's sanctions announcement, North Korea on Friday pulled out of a liaison office with South Korea, a major setback for Seoul, which has pushed hard for engagement between Washington and Pyongyang. The joint liaison office was set up in September in the border city of Kaesong after a historic summit between Kim Jong Un and South Korea's President Moon Jae-in early last year. ATTEMPT TO DEFUSE TENSIONS? Harry Kazianis of the conservative Centre for the National Interest think tank said Trump's move could be an effort to defuse tensions that seemed to be building between Washington and Pyongyang and the risk of North Korea pulling out of talks. "Trump's cancelling out of sanctions might have been a bid to get North Korea to change its thinking," he said. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on March 4 he was hopeful he could send a team to North Korea "in the next couple of weeks," but there has been no sign of a North Korean willingness to extend such an invitation. Another North Korea expert, Bruce Klingner, said that while Thursday's Treasury action was limited, an accompanying notice seemed to hint of stronger future actions. Klingner said Trump's move signalled that his "maximum pressure" sanctions campaign on North Korea was not going to get any stronger and recalled an announcement the president made before a first summit with Kim in June last year when he said he was putting a large list of planned sanctions on hold. Democrats in Congress immediately criticized Trump's move. "Foolish naivete is dangerous enough. Gross incompetence and disarray in the White House make it even worse," said Adam Schiff, chairman of the House intelligence committee. Senator Chris Van Hollen said it showed Trump was being "played" by Kim, "one of the worlds most vicious dictators." "Sidestepping his own Treasury Dept. and withdrawing sanctions against North Korea the same day they were announced defies logic," he said in a tweet. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have called for tougher sanctions on North Korea, a country the United Nations human rights investigator described this month as one of the most closed in the world, that continues to deny basic freedoms, run political prison camps, and subject its citizens to strict surveillance. U.S. officials held a briefing shortly after the sanctions were unveiled, citing the measures as proof that Washington intended to keep up pressure on Pyongyang and national security adviser Bolton tweeted on Thursday: "Important actions today from @USTreasury. The maritime industry must do more to stop North Korea's illicit shipping practices. Everyone should take notice and review their own activities to ensure they are not involved in North Korea's sanctions evasion." Bolton said early this month that the United States would look at ramping up sanctions on North Korea if Pyongyang did not scrap its nuclear weapons programme. A senior White House official who briefed reporters on the latest sanctions on Thursday said the announcement was meant to maintain sanctions enforcement rather than intensify pressure. While declining to say whether Washington was trying to send a post-summit message to Pyongyang with the sanctions, the official said Trump had "made clear that the door is wide open to continuing the dialogue with North Korea." On Monday, two senior U.S. senators called for the Trump administration to correct what they said was a slowing pace of American sanctions designations on North Korea, saying there had been a marked decline in such actions during the past year of U.S. diplomatic engagement with Pyongyang. They pointed to a United Nations report that found North Korea continued to defy U.N. sanctions with an increase in smuggling of petroleum products and coal and violation of bans on arms sales. (Reporting by Roberta Rampton, David Brunnstrom, Susan Heavey, Matt Spetalnick and David Alexander; writing by David Brunnstrom; editing by Grant McCool and James Dalgleish) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. A local contractor started an Instagram handle called @justicefrombiennale18_19 demanding the Kochi Biennale Foundation clear dues amounting to Rs 1.4 crore before the event ends on 29 March. The 2018 edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB), considered one of Asia's most prestigious art festivals, has been in the news for its stellar programming and inclusivity. However, it has also been plagued by some negative developments. In October last year, co-founder Riyas Komu was among the public figures mired in sexual harassment allegations in the second wave of the #MeToo movement in India; Komu immediately stepped down from all managerial positions with the Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) and finally resigned in March 2019, citing being 'marginalised and humiliated'. More recently, the KMB management has been sent a legal notice by a local contractor, alleging non-payment of dues for work completed. The contractor and some of the labourers have started an Instagram handle called @justicefrombiennale18_19 demanding the Biennale organisers clear their dues before the festival ends on 29 March. The handle features photos of the labourers, their statements regarding the work they have put in for the Biennale, and on-site images. The contractor Appu Thomas director of Thomas Clery Infrastructures and Developers Pvt Ltd (TCID) told Firstpost his company had worked with the KMB in 2016 and 2017 and shared a "long, trusting and good relationship with them". For the 2018 edition, Thomas says KMB gave his firm charge of almost all the major works at the festival, from the Aspinwall venue to the Pavilion. Thomas lays out a picture of working against time and several operational hurdles to complete the projects on time. Bills would be cleared as and when they were raised, Thomas was told. "They [KBF] were extremely good with the payments till mid-November and had already paid us and some vendors cumulatively Rs 1.42 cr (the total amount is Rs 2.8 cr) and there were absolutely no issues then. And then they suddenly stopped paying, but we couldnt stop because there was so much work left; the architect and the sponsors were giving us instructions continuously on various projects at the Biennale. Plus, we had immense trust in them because we have been working with them for so long. That is one reason we went ahead and completed the work," Thomas says. However, once the work was completed and all bills were submitted on 20 December, Thomas said no further payments were received. "There are more than 200 labourers who are yet to paid; 40-50 business houses who had provided us with materials plywood, light, electric cables, generator etc. The Trust told us that they need some time as they are a public fund and have certain policies to follow. Then, we waited till 25 December and they hadnt paid us even then. I sent them an email marking the president, the secretary and the curator, asking that they at least pay us half the money. They wrote back saying that they appreciate our hard work and the work that we put in, but they will need some time. At that time, the curator sent us the architect and me an email where the management alleged that we had overcharged and that our prices ran way over their budget," Thomas says. According to Thomas, the KBF then did a valuation by themselves and informed his firm they would pay half the (pending) amount. "It is completely unacceptable; you cant deny payments after having used all the facilities and infrastructure," Thomas says, adding that the KBF's valuation was completely arbitrary. Thomas says the wait for their dues to be cleared has now spanned three months, and once the Biennale closes on 29 March, those anticipating their payments will have no recourse. "We served them a legal notice saying they have paid everyone other than the locals and that they should re-evaluate the bills with us and the architect; see the drawings. We dont want to fight; we are friends of the Biennale. Just pay the poor labourers. They havent responded to the legal notice which for us was a discussion forum to bring the facts to the table and settle this amicably before they leave the site. If the president goes to Mumbai and the secretary goes to Delhi, then we will be talking to a couple of security guards in the Biennale after 29 March," he says. Thomas who asserts he is a fan of the Biennale himself says he chose to air the grievance on social media as the state media tends to be supportive of the KMB. The KBF meanwhile has issued a statement as of 23 March, refuting Thomas' allegation. "In light of the disinformation campaign regarding non-payment of construction workers, the Kochi Biennale Foundation makes the following clarifications," the statement read. "The contractor and his vendors entrusted with the construction of the Biennale Pavilion at Cabral Yard have to-date been paid Rs 1,80,59,000. The payment of on-ground workers is the responsibility of the contractors. Since the final bills submitted by the contractor were considered exorbitant, the Foundation, in mutual agreement with the contractor, appointed an independent government-approved valuer to look into this. The report submitted by the valuer has found that the bills are greatly inflated, and that the amounts demanded by the contractor are arbitrary. This matter is now being pursued legally." Madhav Raman of Anagram Architects, who was the project architect for the Pavilion, said he was unaware of the details of the total works invoiced by Appu Thomas' firm. "However, I do know they include structures, site infrastructure provision and development at Cabral Yard over and above the Biennale Pavilion structure," Raman said. "I understand he has also done work for the development of other venues but can't comment on the details. I should imagine a large part of the amount invoiced would be to compensate labour overtime and last-minute material procurement and logistics. The reason for this is that Thomas had access to the Cabral Yard site from only the first week of October. I commend him and his team for actually completing the work in time. I had estimated it to require about 3.5 months and can personally vouch that work happened day and night on a war-footing, at times even in the rain. So to pull it off in two-odd months is no mean task," he said. In Medals and Bullets, Angeli Sowani depicts how the achievements of soldiers sometimes became more important than their lives In 1920, Wilfred Owens poem Dulce et Decorum Est, a scathing criticism of war and war mongers was published, two years after his death at the age of 25 on the battle field. In the year that World War I ended, Siegfried Sassoons poem Glory of Women published; it tore apart the misconception that chivalry redeems the war's disgrace. Owen and Sassoon were two of the most prominent voices on poetry about World War I, which poured in from Britain, Ireland, France, Germany and Russia. Included in the chorus of these voices was jangnamah poetry written by Sikh soldiers fighting for the British Empire, as well as folk songs written by the wives of these soldiers. We dont often hear about these songs, or of the people who wrote them, in the context of world history or even in our own textbooks. It is this sentiment that prompted artist Angeli Sowani to put together an exhibition titled Medals and Bullets, to remember and represent the bravery and struggles of Indian soldiers who fought in the war of wars. I want people to feel pride and softness for these soldiers who went across to other lands which were not theirs, to fight a war that was not theirs, she says. The exhibition, which is showing at the Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai, is an immersive experience which includes paintings, posters created by recruiters, and letters written by soldiers to people at home. Theres also a slideshow of old photographs and writing, projected on a screen that has cut-outs in the shape of Victorian Crosses; 11 of these prestigious awards were given to Indian soldiers, apart from 9,200 gallantry awards. Sowani employs a lot of colour and the repeated use of symbols like bullets and the Victorian cross, superimposed on the faces of soldiers. Ive tried to fade their faces, because they really are memories... At the end of a war, what you remember is who won, who got a medal. Sometimes, medals can become more important than the man himself. Behind every bullet, every medal, there is a man, she explains. Sowanis research into the subject began with the book Indian Voices of the Great War, Soldiers Letters, 1914-1918 by David Omissi. Curated over a number of years, this book contains over 10,000 letters written by Indian soldiers. They are written in ways that inspire. A lot of the soldiers were not educated, but there is great depth in the literary manner that they describe what was going on They have described themselves as a few grains left in a pot. Sowani was also inspired by the perspective of a professor who taught a course on World War I literature at the British Library. He said he looks at these letters not just as history, but also literature. This is the only World War I literature we have that pertains to India. These soldiers didnt write diaries, and no poems were written for them. This is the only bit of evidence we have about what they felt, what they went through, the people they met, the climate they saw, the pain that they went through, she explains. Mulk Raj Anands Across the Black Waters also guided her creative process. The posters have been sourced from the Imperial War Museums. The British categorised certain communities as martial races or fighting races: the Sikhs, the Dogras, the Gurkhas (many of these communities were settled in the Northern belt of India). In a letter written in code, a soldier called Mausa Ram speaks of the black pepper (Indian soldiers), calling it very pungent and stronger than red pepper (British soldiers). The painting Black Pepper is based on that the Gurkhas charging out of the trenches, Sowani explains. Mythology is a prominent theme across the letters and posters. Do you think that this is war? This is not war. This is the ending of the world. This is just such a war as was related in the Mahabharata about our forefathers, wrote one wounded Punjabi soldier in a letter dated January 1915. In a poster written in Urdu made at the end of the war, Germany is referred to as Ravan. It was intended to be circulated towards the Awadh area. They were looking for 35,000 more recruits. It referred to the Mahabharata, invoking a sense of duty, how it would be a shame if men did not go and fight Posters made references to the Ramayana and what Ravan did to women, and how Germany would do the same thing. They would bring up the caste angle too, saying that Brahmins and Kshatriyas should rise to their duty; how would they feel if a lower caste person gave them orders? It was made into a matter of honour, Sowani says. Another painting, titled The Great Bird of Vishnu, is inspired by a letter which refers to the planes and the bombs in the sky as the vahana (vehicle) of Vishnu. This was a war fought after the industrial revolution, Sowani says, and many of the Indian soldiers had not yet seen a motor car, let alone fighter planes. They had to constantly learn and adapt. They had never fought from trenches. It is said that of all the colonies of different empires, British India contributed the most number of troops approximately one million soldiers. A considerable amount of Indian money was pumped into the war. Soldiers were paid Rs 11 per month and around 70,000 of them were killed. What motivated them to fight this war in the first place? Some soldiers went for izzat, some went because they had a strong sense of duty. They were employed by the Raj, they had eaten the Rajs namak, so they felt they had to fight. I felt they did it not for money I wouldnt call them mercenaries, Sowani explains. Though she does not have a definite answer as to why the Indian troops who fought in World War I are being forgotten, Sowani says that the history of that period is complicated, that several events were taking place at the same time: the unrest against the British, and the atrocities inflicted on Indians. This may be one of the reasons why the soldiers stories werent highlighted. The two sentiments that seem to be common across the letters which are featured in Medals and Bullets are bravery and disillusionment about the war. If you were wounded, youd probably be picked up by an ambulance, or youd be carried to a clearing station, where nurses would try and repair you. If you were repaired, youd go back to war. It is no wonder that these people were against war, Sowani explains. Some of the letters even ask for charas to be sent, to help cope. Sowani told me about one of the earliest recordings of an Indian soldier who fought in the War (which is not part of the exhibition), which has been kept at the Humboldt University. In it, he speaks about how he misses the lassi and the food. He says that if he does not go home, he will likely die here [Germany]. Medals and Bullets is on display at the Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, till 24 March Dr Anita Sengupta was one of the principal engineers who worked on the launch of the Curiosity Rover to Mars in 2011. Dr Anita Sengupta was one of the principal engineers who worked on the launch of the Curiosity Rover to Mars in 2011. Born in Glasgow to a Bengali father and a British mother, Dr Sengupta moved to New York where she was eventually raised. She completed her graduation in aerospace and mechanical engineering in 2000, and PhD in 2005 from Viterbi School of Engineering at the University of Southern California. Since then, she has worked on projects at some of the world's most prestigious institutions, including NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Dr Sengupta will be delivering a lecture on Space Engineering and Exploration at the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum on Sunday, 24 March. In an email interview with Firstpost, she talked about her work and journey. Below is an excerpt from the interview: *** When and how did you become interested in space exploration? As a small child, I watched Star Trek with my father, who was a Mechanical Engineer trained at IIT Bombay. I knew that I wanted to be involved with the exploration of space and I wanted to be an engineer, like my father. As a woman of colour, what was the journey like, from being a student to an expert? It is and was not easy. I had to be better and stronger, to be able to keep pushing ahead. My mother taught me there is no such word as 'cant' and to never give up on your dreams. What is the representation of Indians, and more so Indian women, in the field of aeronautics and aerospace engineering? There are not many women in aerospace or Indian women in aerospace. So it is hard to find role models at work who are like you. But I found many mentors about 10 years into my career at NASA, mainly men, who wanted to help me and teach me. They believed in me and wanted to see women be successful in the field. What are your views on the Indian space sector? Do you see it emerging as one of the formidable research centres in the world when it comes to aerospace engineering? I am a big supporter of ISRO and am very impressed by their accomplishments, especially the MOM [Mars Orbiter Mission]. It makes me very proud as an Indian person, so see such tremendous success. I think that from launch vehicles to missions to Mars, to the surface of the moon, ISRO is going to be the next giant in the government-funded space sector. I hope to work with ISRO one day, as a private sector player, and enhance international collaboration between the US and India in this area. As part of your PhD research thesis, you worked towards improving NASAs 30-cm ion thruster technology. Could you explain to us what it entailed? Ion engines are a type of plasma thruster. They are very efficient, over an order of magnitude more efficient than tradition chemical thrusters. The challenge in using them is that they are low thrust devices which means they are mostly operated over many thousands of hours to provide the needed energy transfer to obtain the desired orbital trajectory. My thesis work was to improve the way in which the plasma (ionised gas) was made to improve electrical efficiency and reduce the amount of wear inside the engine. My research at NASA, for which I won several awards, was incorporated into the design of the engines for NASAs Dawn Mission, launched in 2007, and has now visited Vesta and Ceres, an asteroid and a protoplanet respectively in the main asteroid belt. It is very satisfying to see your PhD work put to direct use in the exploration of our solar system. The Mars Curiosity mission is a milestone in your career. What were the highs and lows during the journey? I led the development and the qualification of the supersonic parachute, a key technology for landing the rover on the surface during the seven minutes of terror as it is called. It took myself and my team over five years to design and test the system to ensure it would be strong enough to withstand an aerodynamic load of over 65,000 pounds [289.12 kN] on a device that only weighs 100 lbs. Your next project with NASA, the development of CAL at ISS, is again a major highlight. What have been the findings so far? Is it going to be an ongoing/ permanent component at ISS? I led NASAs Cold Atom Laboratory (CAL) mission from its inception in 2012. My team and I created a laser cooling facility to make Bose-Einstein Condensates in Space, aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in a microgravity environment. We launched in 2018 and are now observing this as a state of matter at a temperature just above absolute zero. We hope to learn about the nature of superfluidity, superconductivity, and how to make and use quantum sensors in space. I was one of the very few women of colour project managers at NASA and trailblazed as a leader for women that come next. I led the design of the facility to be upgradable/repairable so it can be on the ISS for 5 years or more. I am also proud to have been able to continue the work of the famous Bengali scientist Satyendra Bose into outer space. What was it like working and doing research at Virgin Hyperloop One? How is it going to shape transportation technology in the coming days? I was senior vice president of systems engineering and safety and mission assurance at a hyperloop technology company. With my NASA systems engineering and management training, I led the team in the first-ever systems architecture of a hyperloop and plan for human use certification. It is inherently a green technology as it can use renewable energy from the grid to power its vehicles. I think it is the future of ground-based transit over large distances. You are currently working on developing new-age eco-friendly solutions for transportation in smart cities. Could you elaborate on that? At the end of 2018, I decided to become an entrepreneur in aerospace. I am a co-founder and the chief product officer at Airspace Experience Technologies. We are an aerospace technology company, located in Detroit, looking to revolutionise urban aerial transit with the development of an eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) tilt-wing aircraft. We are revolutionising the way aircraft are designed by using the industrial design and mass production capabilities and expertise of the automotive sector, right in the Motor City. We intend to be a disruptive technology in the traditional aerospace market by providing a more cost-effective, reliable, and lower carbon footprint urban air mobility solution to the market. We are about to raise our next round of capital next week and I am hoping to find ways to work with India on the development of our vehicle in the months ahead. I believe that changing our view of urban transit from two to three dimensions will reduce congestion, pollution, and improve the quality of peoples lives all over the world. We want to make green air travel affordable to everyone. ASX Mission 2019 from Detroit Aircraft / ASX on Vimeo. Other than space exploration and research, what are your other areas of interest? I am also a pilot. So, I view ASX as my dream job as an aerospace engineer being able to design an aeroplane from scratch. I am a snowboarder, scuba diver, sport motorcyclist, bicyclist, and runner. I am also a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) outreach advocate and professional public speaker. How do you create awareness about areas you think need attention in terms of the teaching of science and engineering in countries like India? I am a research associate professor of astronautics at USC where I teach the design of spacecraft and entry systems. I do a lot of public speaking all over the world and each time I come to India, I set up free public lectures at science centres, schools, and museums so I can share my journey and my passion, which is engineering and space exploration. I also use social media (@Doctor_Astro) to provide insights and information to the public at large. I want young people to see scientists and engineers as role models and people to emulate. What would be your advice to aspiring scientists and space explorers in India? The sky is not the limit, only the beginning. You can accomplish anything you put your mind to with hard work, perseverance, and passion. If it was easy it probably wasnt worth doing. And if it seems impossible all the more reason to try and do it. On 24 March, Dr Sengupta will deliver a talk at Mumbai's Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, as part of the museum's monthly collaboration with the Academy of STEAM (formally brought into operation in 2018 at the National STEM Story Festival by ex-BARC physicist Prof AP Jayaraman emphasising the role of Arts as a binding energy between Science and Humanities). BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday launched a blistering attack on the Congress in response to party leader Sam Pitroda's remarks on the Pulwama terror attack. BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday launched a blistering attack on the Congress in response to party leader Sam Pitroda's remarks on the Pulwama terror attack. Shah focused his criticism squarely on Congress president Rahul Gandhi as he placed three questions to be answered by the party chief. "Does the Congress think terrorist attacks like that incident in Pulwama are ordinary? The Congress president should answer," Shah said. On Friday, Pitroda chairman of the Overseas Indian National Congress said that attacking Pakistan with an airstrike was "not the right approach" in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack as he advocated that talks should be held with the neighbouring country. Pitroda also said that it is "naive" to blame the whole nation (Pakistan) for an attack undertaken by eight people, referring to the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. BJP President Amit Shah: Who do you (Rahul Gandhi) support? Doubting the Indian Air Force is not right for the national president of any party. You stand in support when slogans are raised against the country in JNU, and call it the freedom of expression. pic.twitter.com/xoBasGtEja ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2019 In response, Shah said, " Does the Congress believe that the Pakistan government and military has a connection with the terrorist attacks in India? If yes, then who is the culprit? We need an answer from Rahul Gandhi." Shah also dismissed the route of peace talks and said that "many" terrorist attacks had happened during the UPA's "Sonia-Manmohan" reign, and the then-government had engaged in talks, but to no avail. The BJP president then slammed the party for "vote bank politics", saying that the people of the country had seen the true face of the party for its "appeasement politics", which is why it had been "sidelined". "When elections are near, vote-bank politics and appeasement politics are the tradition of the Congress party. It has sowed the seed of appeasement politics in the country. Can vote-bank politics be prioritised above national security?" Shah also criticised the Opposition for "questioning" the IAF's strikes in Pakistan's Balakot. "Who do you (Rahul Gandhi) support? Doubting the Indian Air Force is not right for the national president of any party. You stand in support when slogans are raised against the country in JNU, and call it the freedom of expression," he said. The Narendra Modi-led government has been successful in taking a "strong stand against terrorism" in the international community, Shah said, adding that the previous governments "didn't have the guts" to give terrorists a tough reply. With inputs from agencies An audio tape surfaced on Saturday where Maharashtra Congress chief Ashok Chavan is purportedly heard saying that he wanted to resign. Mumbai: An audio tape surfaced on Saturday where Maharashtra Congress chief Ashok Chavan is purportedly heard saying that he wanted to resign as his views on candidate selection were not being heeded by the leadership. When asked by reporters, Chavan said he was not aware of such a tape, but conceded that there was discontent in the party regarding the choice of Vinayak Bangade as Congress candidate for the Chandrapur Lok Sabha seat. In the audio clip which went viral, a party worker named Rajurkar from Chandrapur is heard complaining about the choice of candidate when the party is sure to win in Chandrapur. Chavan is heard telling him to speak to Mukul Wasnik, the Congress's Central Election Committee head. "Nobody is listening to me and I am in a mood to resign," Chavan is purportedly heard saying further. He is also heard telling Rajurkar to ask Bangade not to contest. In the end he is heard asking Rajurkar to share Bangade's contact number. At a press conference in Mumbai, where the Congress and NCP announced their seat-sharing pact in Maharashtra for Lok Sabha elections, Chavan was asked about the audio clip. "There is discontent over Chandrapur seat," he said, adding, "These are private conversations between me and my party workers. I have not heard the audio clip you are talking about." Asked about his purported comment that he was feeling like resigning, Chavan said, "I have not made any public announcement." Union minister Uma Bharti has been appointed the national vice-president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, said Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda in New Delhi on Saturday. New Delhi: Union minister Uma Bharti has been appointed the national vice-president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, said Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda in New Delhi on Saturday. "As Uma ji has written to BJP president Amit Shah, reiterating her decision not to contest the Lok Sabha elections, the party has appointed her the national vice-president of the BJP," Nadda said at a press conference. Drinking Water and Sanitation Minister Uma Bharti had told Shah that she won't be contesting 17th Lok Sabha election, adding that she will be happy to accept any other responsibilities assigned to her by the party. "Dear friend, as I have already declared, reiterating the same I had written a letter to the party president Mr Amit Shah, repeating my request of not contesting an election, so that the party officially declares it," wrote Bharti on her Twitter account. "I have told all friends that for the next one and a half years, I want to spend maximum time on the banks of the Ganga. During this period, I will participate in the Lok Sabha election campaign according to the BJP's directive, and will fulfil the responsibilities assigned to me," she said. Bharti, however, said she will not retire from politics till "her last breathe" and will continue to do politics for the rights of poor man. "Prime Minister @narendramodi ji is the head guard of the country. All of BJP workers are included in the army of the chowkidars. My wish is that our government is formed and Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister again," she had tweeted. In 1989, Bharti contested and won from the Khajuraho Lok Sabha seat and retained it in the elections conducted in 1991, 1996 and 1998. In 1999, she switched her constituency and won from the Bhopal seat in Madhya Pradesh. She won the last poll from Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh. In December last year, Bharti had announced a break from active politics to focus on the issue of the Ram temple and cleaning the Ganga. She had also announced that she would not contest the Lok Sabha polls in 2019. The rise of the BJP had something to do with the Brahmin backlash. But as a political party, the BJP is mistaken in its belief that it is the only claimant of that mantle. In the heady days following the BJPs rise in the 1990s propelled in part by the rath yatra of veteran leader LK Advani, whose electoral politics has just come to an end, the BJP began a long struggle to define itself what political space can it carve out in a country whose history is so vast and complex that it defies simplistic description? The political press and the intelligentsia, on the other hand, took sides almost at once. The position of the secular mainstream press was in line with the post WW-II liberal western thinking, as it was during the long Independence movement. But it is a mistake to begin modern Indias story from the midnight of 15 August, 1947. Or from the philosophy of what can be called Nehruvianism, easily the most articulate and foundational philosophy of the modern Indian state. It is also a mistake to exclude Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel from this Nehruvianism. The differences between the first prime minister and the first home minister (of whom the BJP has made a cult figure) were in their political styles and administrative methods. The great lion roared when he disagreed, and the Kashmiri Pandit always stopped in his tracks to listen. The story of modern India actually begins with the Bengal Renaissance and its thinkers, beginning with Raja Rammohun Roy and ending with perhaps the biggest and most brilliant thinker produced during Indias first encounter with modern liberal and ill-liberal western thought. This young man, who brought up the rear-guard of the Renaissance was none other than Swami Vivekananda, now the poster boy for what the BJP believes are its core foundational ideologies. This is where the dichotomy in the narrative of the BJP lies. The BJP is clearly the most important political movement after the visionary prime minister VP Singhs implementation of the Mandal Commission report, which gave a suddenly thriving political space to the backward classes defined by the rise of the two Yadavs in the heartland and Kanshi Ram and Mayawati et al. The rise of the BJP surely had something to do with the Brahmin backlash. But as a political party, the BJP is mistaken in its belief that it is the only claimant of that mantle. Witness this simple nugget: It was Brahmin Congress prime minister Narasimha Raos decision to allow shilanyas in 1991 in the first place. The jury is still out on whether it was the right decision, and if the Congress shares the blame for the waves of virulent hate that have followed that moment, but Rao created the space for this movement to take seed. But the pressing question still remains to be answered: what indeed is the BJPs place in Indian polity? Before proceeding to examine BJPs place in the political space, it is instructive to examine the partys claim to the Swami, the partys central icon. First, Swami Vivekananda was the foremost disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who belonged to the Puri sect of monistic monks of Bengal who are known for their adherence to the Advaitic school of thought. Advaita (literally, one without a second, as opposed to dvaita or dualism) has a very special place in Hindu thought. It reaches all the way back to the definition of Godhead as Brahman or Inexpressible, Infinite etc. The Brahmo Samajis who drove the Renaissance drew upon this vision of Hinduism to include all Indians, regardless of their religion, caste or provenance. Second, Ramakrishna himself affirmed the Truth of all four major religions as valid paths to the Almighty. He performed sadhana (spiritual effort) prescribed in all religions and found them all to be valid paths to the One Undifferentiated Reality. While that may have pulled the metaphysical rug from under the BJP platform, it is undeniable that the BJP does indeed occupy a powerful, popular and hence legitimate place in the Indian political firmament and cannot be dismissed, something that the intelligentsia instinctively does. The BJP may have risen in prominence during the 1990s after Raos shilanyas set in motion some very powerful forces, but these forces were created by the great trauma of Partition, which inescapably marked the psyche of every inhabitant on the subcontinent. All Indians know that this cataclysmic event which claimed over a million lives in some brutal bloodletting unseen anywhere else in the world was not (as many in the West believe) a state-sponsored pogrom in any way. In fact, it was engendered and enabled by the lack of a functioning state. Hence, it is erroneous to believe that some collections of either religion were responsible for the carnage. In Indian popular imagination, the fault lies with Mohammad Ali Jinnah, (and astoundingly enough in the Dalai Lamas mind,) Pandit Nehru. Both men were blamed by both sides for their personal ambitions. In actual fact, perhaps the fault lay at the feet of the Great Mahatma, who tried to mix religion with politics a dangerous mixture, as the West found out after centuries in the Dark Ages. The BJP then traces its roots back to these forces, chiefly the RSS. However, whatever dangerous hue the well-read and well-bred intelligentsia may colour the RSS with, it was a product of its times. It is the politicians in the BJP who have misused the simple urge in an embattled ancient culture, threatened with annihilation, to hold on to its roots. In India, at the very root is religion and religious belief. In this way, the BJP is no different from the Congress, which simply forms the other side of the coin: the fault lies not in the core tenets but the politicians who seek to use them to gain power. Opinions on his performance may differ, but it is beyond question that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an old RSS man, came to power with an unmatched mandate from the people of India. He has glaring failures, chiefly on the law and order front (rapes, a pervasive feeling of lawlessness) but his successes are many, chiefly on the foreign policy front. At home, he at least gets an A for effort for being the first man to dare to imagine that with its new and shining weapon of technology, India could, perhaps someday, eradicate corruption, and build toilets for all. During a conversation I had with the senior RSS idealogue Govindacharya at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi in the late 1990s, I suggested that the BJP (in power at the time) would never build the temple at Ayodhya. This startled Govindacharya, who was shocked not at the idea, but at my unshakeable certainty. He gave me two years for the temple to be built. Twenty years later, nothing except the health of the Sarayu river has changed, for the worse, in Lord Ramas contested birthplace. On the other hand, the Congress and the so-called, so-far aspirational Third Front, is only a twinkle in the eyes of Chandrababu Naidu and Mamata Banerjee. The Oppositions chance mainly rests with Rahul Gandhi, who has in a brilliant strategic move, pressed Priyanka into service. The BJP mocks Rahul as an empty suit, an ill-advised euphemism used by a diplomat to describe the Congress scion to his US masters. Whether that suit fits or not will be revealed during the long and brutally hard days of campaigning, planning, quick decisions, ticket melees etc. While Rahul has shown some maturity and definitely the ability to take humiliation and mockery, a mark of a leader in Indian politics, it is imperative to show you are a man at some point. His grandmother, once described as the only man in the Indian cabinet will no doubt be watching. As will his mother, Sonia. But it is beyond doubt that it is his right as an Indian, the descendant of a proud Kashmiri Pandit family to claim his own God. It is not for nothing that Rahul is trying hard to get rid of the anti-Hindu tag his party has acquired in the last three decades. Rahuls and now Priyankas temple runs are a work in progress. The jury is still out on whether they are making an impact. It could turn out to be too little too late for this election. But it is starkly clear that any comeback for the Congress is predicated on reclaiming the space it so unthinkingly surrendered to the BJP since the 1980s (recall the Shah Bano case). Indias future political battles will have the BJP and its adversaries fighting for the same space, the space that is inextricable from what goes to the heart of the Indian identity. To exclude religion or culture from it is foolhardy, because it is simply driven underground to fester. And since majority appeal is the only measure of success in politics, these battles will be about the majority religious space. The BJP does not and will not have a monopoly on religion. Muslims, Parsis, Christians and Buddhists will co-mingle on this stage, as they have down the millenia in India. Indias intelligentsia will have to recognise this reality. Sooner the better. The author is a senior journalist based in Singapore An announcement by Janata Dal (Secular) on Saturday that its party chief HD Deve Gowda will contest the Lok Sabha poll from Tumkur may have brought an end to days of speculation, but it comes hot on the heels of a fresh problem in the JD(S)-Congress alliance in Karnataka. An announcement by the Janata Dal (Secular) on Saturday that its party chief HD Deve Gowda will contest the Lok Sabha election from Tumkur may have brought an end to days of speculation, but it comes hot on the heels of a fresh problem in the JD(S)-Congress alliance in Karnataka. Hours before JD(S) spokesperson Ramesh Babu spoke of the decision to field the former prime minister as a "JD(S)-Congress combined candidate", Congress's sitting MP from Tumkur P Muddahanumegowda said he will file his nomination on Monday as the party candidate from the very seat. The 85-year-old JD(S) patriarch had earlier expressed doubts about contesting the polls, saying he was thinking about his "usefulness" in the National Capital. However, he is now expected to file his nomination on Monday, like Muddahanumegowda, in the presence of leaders of the coalition parties. "All our leaders, workers and elected representatives have unanimously told me that I have to contest. I'm a sitting Member of Parliament. I have delivered on the floor of the House. Why shouldn't I be allowed to contest the election?" Muddahanumegowda told reporters in Tumkur, adding that he has faith that the Congress and coalition leaders would understand the feelings of the people in his constituency and reconsider their decision. Muddahanumegowda was quoted as having said by ANI that he will hold a procession from BGS Circle in Tumkur to the District Collector's Office on Monday. According to the seat-sharing arrangement between the two parties, of the total 28 seats in the Karnataka Assembly, the Congress will contest 20 and the JD(S), eight. As soon as the seat-sharing pact was announced, Muddahanumegowda, along with Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara, who hails from Tumkur, had requested the JD(S) to give the seat back to the Congress. According to sources, JD(S) bagged the Tumkur seat dominated by the Vokkaliga community, its major vote bank after a hard bargain as the Congress had decided not to cede constituencies where the party has sitting MPs to its coalition partner. Deve Gowda has ceded the Hassan seat he had been representing to his grandson Prajwal Revanna. There was speculation that he may contest from Bangalore North, though it is understandable that he has chosen to forego it, as most Congress MLAs in the constituency are considered close to Gowda's bete noire Siddaramaiah. The Congress-JD(S) coalition has been in choppy waters since it was formed in May 2018, and the rifts were perhaps irreparably widened when, in January, the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party's botched "Operation Lotus" gave rise to renewed suspicions that MLAs from both parties were going to leave for the BJP. The saffron party, too, had alleged that its own MLAs were being poached and accommodated 100 of its MLAs at a resort in Gurugram until the drama tided over. With inputs from PTI Speculation on former UPA minister Jitin Prasada, a close friend of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's, leaving the party for BJP began circulating on Friday. Congress leader and one-time United Progressive Alliance minister Jitin Prasada once again said on Saturday that reports that he is about to join the Bharatiya Janata Party are mere rumours. Speculation on Prasada, a close friend of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, leaving the party for BJP began circulating on Friday. Several news channels had reported that he could be looking to join the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha polls as he was unhappy with the Congress. Times Now had reported that Prasada had even been seen heading to the BJP offices. Prasada's name had been earlier doing the rounds for the post of Pradesh Congress Committee chief in Uttar Pradesh, but the post is still held by Raj Babbar. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala, when asked on Friday to comment on media reports claiming Prasada's defection, said, "It's bullshit." PTI reported sources as having revealed that some senior Congress leaders, including Uttar Pradesh West general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia, met Prasada on Friday afternoon in a bid to placate him and Prasada relented after senior party leader Ahmed Patel spoke to him later in the evening. On Saturday, after an ANI reporter asked if he is in touch with the BJP, he said, "The rumour is on. How can I comment on rumours? These are all rumours." On Friday, Prasada had called the question of him joining the BJP "hypothetical". He had said, "There should be some basis for such a question. Why should I answer a hypothetical question?" In designating a change in his political trajectory as a "rumour," Prasada however did not clarify with certainty if he was considering leaving the Congress. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah asked why he could not issue a "categorical denial." Why cant @JitinPrasada just give a categorical denial? Its hardly a hypothetical question when every news channel is carrying reports. https://t.co/d3gdyao58l Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 22, 2019 Prasada is the son of Congress veteran Jitendra Prasada who had unsuccessfully contested against Sonia Gandhi for the post of Congress president in 2000. With inputs from agencies Lok Sabha Election 2019; Model Code of Conduct Watch: The Election Commission (EC) has issued a notice to BJP's Chandigarh candidate Kirron Kher, seeking a reply after she shared a video on Twitter in which children were seen campaigning for her. Auto refresh feeds However, Sharma deleted the post later, but said that he did not understand why was the poll body was so "allergic" to a person cheering the heroic act of its soldiers and rejoicing over an act of national honour. "The Election Commission is biased against nationalist leaders like me," he said. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday issued a show-cause notice to Delhi BJP MLA Om Prakash Sharma for putting up two posters featuring him, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Facebook. The Commission asked him to take down the post and give a reply by Thursday. Bahujan Samaj Party's (BSP) Pratapgarh Lok Sabha constituency in-charge Ashok Tripathi was among 68 booked for poll code violation on Wednesday. A case was registered against Tripathi, divisional president Ajay Pasi, Kamlesh Verma and 65 unnamed people at Lalganj Kotwali on Wednesday evening, police said. On Saturday, sector magistrate Pradip Kumar reached Verma Nagar crossing where an election meeting was going on without permission. The organisers failed to produce any document to establish they had permission for the meeting, the police said According to UT administration, a complaint was received on the C-vigil app on Wednesday, following which the Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) took cognizance and thereafter issued notices for convening the election meetings at government properties Community Center in Sector 29, Ram Darbar in community centre at Sector 37, Chandigarh. Show cause notices were issued to BJP's Chandigarh chief Sanjay Tandon , four BJP councillors, two nominated councillors and three officials of the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh on Wednesday for violating the model code of conduct. The notice asked the officials to reply within 24 hours as to why disciplinary action may not be taken against them. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday asked the Election Commission to take action against Congress President Rahul Gandhi for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct by making unverified allegations against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ANI reported . Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, We have requested the EC to take action against Rahul Gandhi for levelling unverified allegations against Narendra Modi on Wednesday in Ahmedabad, when the Model Code of Conduct is already in effect." Congress registered it's first complaint MCC violation complaint with the Election Commission on Thursday. In Maharashtra, the party gave a written complaint to the chief electoral officer against government advertisements still displayed outside state transport buses, bus stops and petrol pumps. Congress general secretary and spokesperson Sachin Sawant said that despite the MCC coming into force, ST buses, bus stops and petrol pumps among other public places were displaying government advertisements. He said that the commission should ask the government about it and register a case of violation, and wrote a letter to the Maharashtra chief electoral officer (CEO) Ashwani Kumar for the same. In a letter, the Goa NSUI president has said, The NSUI, Goa writes to you demanding: ban of the movie in theatres in states during the 'election silence' period that is two days prior to the day of voting and ban of the movie in the Lok Sabha Constituency where the prime minister would be contesting. The NSUI demands a ban on the movie 48 hours prior to voting which is known as election silence where a party is not allowed to promote or campaign. The National Students' Union of India Goa, the Congress party's student wing, on Friday urged the Election Commission to ban the release of the Narendra Modi biopic, alleging that the movie was propaganda by the BJP to influence voters during the Lok Sabha elections. Das's photographs allegedly appear on posters of schemes like the mid-day meal. The party also told the newspaper that tablets distributed to teachers under the Gyansetu initiative have Das's photograph on display and alleged that this too was a violation of the model code of conduct. The Aam Aadmi Party's East Singhbhum wing) has written to the deputy commissioner of the Election Commission, alleging that posters of Jharkhand chief minister Raghubar Das were seen inside school campuses in the district, reported Times of India . The notice also stated that comments on other political parties had been visible on boards put up along the sides of the e-rickshaw. The notice issued to her states she had displayed her name in a poster on an e-rickshaw on which she travelled across city, on 14 March, reported ANI. An assistant returning officer of Vidhan Sabha constituency 25, Jagdish Lal, has issued a notice for violation of the Model Code of Conduct on the mayor of Haridwar Municipal Corporation, Anita Sharma, reported Daily Pioneer. It is the duty of the EC to conduct a fair election and protect democracy. The threatening by Delhi Police is still continuing even after MCC has come into force. The Delhi Police is acting like BJPs goons. We have asked that it should be stopped, he added. They (call centre) are not doing something proxy. AAP has hired them. AAP has an agreement with them, Sisodia clarified. An AAP delegation lead by Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia met EC officials urging them to suspend three Delhi Police officials whom he accused of working on behalf of BJP As per BJPs directions, names of 24 lakh voters were stuck off voter list. We launched a campaign to get their name re-registered in the voter list. Delhi Police acting on behest of BJP has been raiding the call centre with whose help we did this campaign, Sisodia said. Delhi police is threatening the owner of the call centre that if you work for AAP, we will make you fall in line, Sisodia claimed. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday complained about the alleged harassment of the owner of a call centre by the Delhi Police on the "behest of BJP." The call centre was alleged to be hired by AAP to "help people whose names were allegedly stuck off the voters' list," ANI reported. On 17 March, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera had told ANI: "Whenever farmers of this country and unemployed youths ask tough questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he hides behind terrorists and Pakistans intelligence agency ISI." On 16 March, Khera had said that 'Modi' stood for 'Masood, Osama, Dawood and ISI' during a television debate, a comment which the Congress leader is facing flak for. BJP has appealed to the Election Commission to take appropriate action under penal laws and election laws, for allegedly violating the MCC. Calling it a blatant violation of the MCC, the BJP in its letter said: "Such speech amounts to a violation of the MCC. The MCC Manual 2019 under Chapter 4 Clause 4.4 prescribes no criticism of other parties or their workers on the basis of unverified allegations or on distortions." The BJP in its letter to the Chief Electoral officer has asserted that 'comparing Prime Minister Narendra Modi with dreaded terrorists is not only unparliamentary but defamatory and deplorable.' The BJP in its complaint has claimed that Khera, during a news channel's event, had stated that 'Modi stands for Masood Azhar, Osama, Dawood and ISI.' Since the Model Code of Conduct came into effect on 10 March, the Delhi Police has also seized 82 unlicensed weapons, 2,113 live cartridges, 16,495 litres of illicit liquor and 94.337 kilograms of drugs. Also, four FIRs have been registered against political parties , including two against AAP and one against the BJP, for violating the Model Code of Conduct. Chief Electoral Office of Delhi Ranbir Singh said 90,937 posters, hoardings and banners had been removed from across the city on Monday. He added that 235 FIRs had been registered under the Excise Act and 242 people had been arrested for violating the Act. "In order to secure votes, Chief Minister Rao has used illegal means and made statements against the Hindus of this country. He tried his level best to flare up religious tension and instigate the people of other religions against Hindus," claimed the VHP in its memorandum. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has approached Telangana Chief Electoral Officer Rajat Kumar for action against Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct by "defaming" Hindus during a public meeting. The group has handed over a memorandum to Kumar, in which it has claimed that KCR had made many derogatory and defamatory statements against Hindus and tried to flare up "religious tension". Opposition parties in Tamil Nadu on Monday accused Palladam AIADMK MLA A Natarajan of violating the Model Code of Conduct by inspecting a number of developmental projects in his constituency. They raised the issue at the all-party meeting organised by the district administration at the collectorate in Tirupur. CPM Tirupur district executive member N Gopalakrishnan also presented photos as evidence at the meeting. The District Revenue Office said it has yet to recieve a complaint. The Ranchi district administration on Monday filed a poll code violation case against Union minister Jayant Sinha, who is an MP from Hazaribag. The case was filed on a complaint by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha that wrote to Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer L Khiangte, claiming that Sinha has used the convocation ceremony at IIM-Ranchi to publicise the BJP government's achievements, in gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct. In order to put a check on the poll irregularities and other malfunctions ahead and during the Lok Sabha elections, a 24x7 control room was opened at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer in Bhubaneswar on Friday. The control room would monitor activities like poll irregularities, model code of conduct (MCC) violation, and other violations such as the distribution of illegal inducements, black money and hate speech. The CEO office has issued a number 0674-2395015 for this purpose. Based on these complaints, the control room will direct the concerned authorities which will then spring into action to check the violation, reports said. However, state BJP president Jitu Vaghani dismissed the complaint and said that there was no violation of the code of conduct. "The chief minister has certain rights. Election campaigns are not allowed (from government buildings), but it is his residence. Chief Minister's security... everything has to be considered. We are meeting and having discussions at the CM residence. Campaign or speeches are not being done," he said, according to a DNA report . "The CM's official residence is a government building. Political activities are not allowed there when the model code of conduct is in force. BJP's meetings of 17 and 18 March for selection of candidates (for Lok Sabha elections) at the chief minister's residence are a violation of the code of conduct," Balubhai Patel, chairman of Gujarat Congress' election coordination committee, said in a complaint to the state's Chief Electoral Officer S Murali Krishna. Following the complaint, the CEO office directed the Gandhinagar collector to look into the matter and to submit a report. The Gujarat Congress on Monday complained to the election authorities that BJP had violated the model code of conduct by holding meetings of its parliamentary panels at the Chief Minister Vijay Rupani's official residence. The highest number of 85 complaints were received from Pune, followed by Thane (61), Solapur (44), Mumbai suburban (40), Mumbai city (39) and Nagpur (26). Most of the complaints pertained to banners being put up without permission, the official said. The Maharashtra Chief Electoral Office has received as many as 400 complaints of MCC violations through its cVIGIL app, an official said Wednesday. "The local team gets an alert once the complaint is lodged, and our people reach the spot and verify the details. If the complaint is valid, we record the details and initiate an inquiry," the official added. "The very title of the book and its display on the election poster is an open declaration by the candidate that he is Hindu. This is a subtle attempt aimed at exploiting Hindu religious sentiments. This is a gross violation of election rules and the Model Code of Conduct. Significantly, the poster was published and publicised after the election notification," the BJP's complaint read. The Kerala BJP on Tuesday complained to the Chief Electoral Officer in Thiruvananthapuram, claiming that the posters put up by the Congress related to MP Shashi Tharoor's book Why Am I A Hindu violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The saffron party claimed APP had burned the manifestos to attack the BJP on the issue of full statehood to Delhi. "AAP leaders violated the MCC by either not seeking permission for such events from the Election Commission, or they sought permission for election meetings from the EC and misused this permission to violate the MCC by burning BJP's manifesto," read the letter written by SN Verma, co-convener of Delhi BJP's legal department. The Delhi BJP on Tuesday filed a complaint with the Chief Electoral Office in the city, seeking action against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for allegedly "indulging in violent acts" and violating the MCC. The BJP claimed AAP leaders, including Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, had burned copies of its 2014 manifesto on 13 March. The BJP leader claimed he had not made the music video, and that media houses had covered it while he was recording of the song, WION reported. West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay Basu said, ''We are keeping a close watch on media and through the surveillance, we came to know of the election campaign song of Babul Supriyo... This is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. We have issued a showcause notice to Babul Supriyo. He has to reply to the notice within 48 hours." The Election Commission on Tuesday issued a showcause notice to BJP leader and Union minister Babul Supriyo for violating the MCC. The notice is related to a campaign song, which Supriyo allegedly promoted on electronic media and social media sites without a media certification from the EC. The Trinamool Congress had also registered a complaint against the song with the EC He said that they did so "by publicising materials in a bid to appeal to religious sentiments of voters." Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday wrote to the chief electoral officer (CEO) or Kerala in order to "file a complaint in relation to the malicious attempt by BJP and the Sabarimala Karma Samithi to vitiate free and fair polls in Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha constituency." Earlier in March, a BJP delegation comprising Ravi Shankar Prasad, JP Nadda and others had urged the EC to declare Bengal as a super sensitive zone while expressing apprehensions that the ruling TMC government might not allow free and fair elections to be held in West Bengal. A Trinamool Congress (TMC) delegation comprising Derek O'Brien, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, and Chandan Mitra approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday to lodge a complaint against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding an alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct. The TMC claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modis photo was being published on railway tickets as part of a government scheme, which, the party said, was in violation of the MCC. It urged the poll body to ensure that the pictures were taken off rail tickets. The Cubbon Park police have booked Praveen, Abhilash and Raj under various sections of the Representation of People's Act and also under the Karnataka Police Act. In a complaint to the police on 19 March, a flying squad official for the 163 Vidhana Sabha constituency, stated that actor-turned-politician Prakash Raj had used a mike and campaigned for elections at a public rally held at the Mahatma Gandhi Circle near MG Road on 12 March. The rally was organised by one Praveen K and Abhilash CS under the banner Media and Freedom of Expression and it was a non-political programme. Several writers, artists and activists attended the programme where Prakash Raj used the mike and began to canvass seeking votes, Murthy stated in his complaint. A whatsapp video footage as evidence of Raj speaking on the mike was handed over to police. However, by the time the flying squad reached the spot, the programme was over and people had dispersed. Permission was taken to conduct a non-political programme but Raj used it as a platform canvassing for the election. This amounts to violation of the model code of conduct, Murthy said in his complaint. Twenty-nine FIRs have been registered against various political parties in Delhi so far, including three each against the AAP and the BJP, for violating the model code of conduct, Delhi's chief electoral officer said on Wednesday. Special CEO Satnam Singh said that the poll body has also removed more than 1.8 lakh hoardings, banners and posters since the enforcement of model code of conduct. Of the three FIRs registered against the AAP, one is related to using auto rickshaw for election campaign, Singh said. In most of the 29 cases, FIRs were registered against political parties for defacing public property, he said. Singh said 91 FIRs have been registered and 112 people arrested under the Arms Act since March 12 while police have seized 99 unlicensed weapons from them. As many as 296 FIRs have been registered and 302 violators arrested under the Excise Act, PTI reported. 21 March, Thursday | Three FIRs each against AAP, BJP so far for violating MCC in Delhi; 29 against all political parties Mallikarjun Utture, the Expenditure Observer appointed by the Central Election Commission for the Udupi-Chikkamagaluru parliamentary seat , said on Wednesday that government officers should immediately suo motu register a case if there was any violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Utture said that the officers should act in such cases without waiting for the public to lodge a complaint. The officers should maintain a tight vigil to see that there was no violation of the Model Code of Conduct during campaigning by political parties. The different teams and squads appointed for election purposes should ensure that there was no effort being made to induce or influence the voters. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday said that Congress president Rahul Gandhis interaction with students of a womens college in Chennai did not violate the model code of conduct (MCC), though it has sought a report on his speech. Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Satyabrata Sahoo said local election officials have reported that there was no violation in terms of permission obtained by Stella Maris College for Women to host the interaction on 13 March. He said the District Electoral Officer (DEO) had informed him that there was permission for Rahul's event. So, there is no violation of the MCC. However, Sahoo sought further information on Rahul's speech. Have sought further information on what kind of speech was given... have asked the DEO to give a report based on the speech content, he said. Speaking to reporters after a Congress delegation met the Election Commission on Monday, Kapil Sibal said, "We represented to the EC that there is a film being made on Narendra Modi, to be released just a few days before election. It's purpose is political. Three producers and actor belong to BJP; the director is involved in 'Vibrant Gujarat' (investors' summit). This is violative of all norms." Earlier Banerjee had filed a complaint against Supriyo on 20 March for the circulation of false, unverified and distorted news criticising his family members. On 24 March, Supriyo made another defamatory statement in public, Banerjee cited in the letter. In a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Banerjee said that Supriyo has maligned his image by levelling false and unverified allegations against him. Banerjee alleged that Supriyo on 24 March made a public statement against him which was "vindictive, libelous, and defamatory." The Election Commission of India (ECI) has written to the Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Civil Aviation , asking them why the pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi were not removed from rail tickets and Air India boarding passes even after the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into effect. They've been asked to submit a reply within three days to the commission. The Odisha Congress on Monday filed a complaint with Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the state against BJP's Lok Sabha candidate from Puri Sambit Patra alleging violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The Odisha Pradesh Congress in its complaint said that Patra violated MCC by holding the idol of Lord Jagannath in his hand during an election rally. The Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday sent a notice to four producers of the upcoming film ' PM Narendra Modi '. Congress and the CPM had complained to the commission about the film's release, saying it's being done with political intent. EC had earlier sent notices to two newspapers on 20 March over publishing 'PM Narendra Modi' film's poster for promotions Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi and producer of film 'PM Narendra Modi', Sandeep Singh arrived at the Election Commission in Delhi on Thursday after complaints were filed over the release of the movie and ban of its trailer in light of the Model Code of Code (MCC) being in force ahead of the Lok Sabha election. The EC committee headed by Deputy Election Commissioner in charge of the MCC division Sandeep Saxena came to the conclusion that Modi's speech did not violate the guidelines because "he did not mention the BJP, nor did he appeal for votes" in the duration of his address. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech on 'Mission Shakti' did not violate the Model Code of Conduct, the Election Commission announced on Friday, even as the Opposition had accused the prime minister of violations and "publicity mongering". Cups sporting Main Bhi Chowkidar ads, the prime minister's pet campaign unveiled just before elections, were spotted at a Shatapdi train today. Tea was served in these paper cups but these were later withdrawn after some passengers brought this to the notice of railway officials and pictures of it became viral on social media. Ministry of Railways reacted to the controversy over tea being served in Shatabdi train in 'Main bhi Chowkidar' cups. The railway officials said that the incident happened today but the cups were immediately withdrawn. The ministry said that these are not procured from any political party and penal action will be taken against the contractor, and the railways supervisor. The office of Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has shot off a letter to head of departments, saying the projects that actually started on the ground after obtaining all necessary permission, before the poll code came into force, can be continued. The Delhi poll body has received several complaints about the AAP government departments and BJP-ruled MCDs starting work on projects before the model code of conduct came into force, but seeking formal approvals later. He said as per the FIR, based on the complaint of Mansur Chak Block Development Officer-cum-flying squad magistrate Shatrughan Rajak, Kanhaiya had addressed a public meeting in a village on Thursday without obtaining prior permission for the same from the authorities. PTI The case was lodged at Mansur Chak police station of the district under relevant sections of the Representation of People Act, SHO Arvind Kumar said. Former JNU students union president Kanhaiya Kumar, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar's Begusarai as a CPI candidate, was booked for violation of Model Code of Conduct. "Jokes apart, Sanjaykaka Patil has done a good job here in Miraj by getting funds for development of roads, highways, railways and other infrastructure," he added. - PTI When someone from the crowd asked what would he give them if they got Patil re-elected, he said, "You will get five lakh rupees or even more." Addressing a joint gathering of the BJP, Shiv Sena and RPI (A) workers Wednesday, Deshmukh purportedly said it was not going to be easy to retain the Sangli Lok Sabha seat, where the BJP has fielded sitting MP Sanjaykaka Patil. "After ascertaining the facts, a complaint was registered at Miraj and Bhilwadi police stations," the CEO's office said in a release. The Election Commission had received a complaint about the comments made by Deshmukh in Miraj on 27 March, it said. A case has been registered against Prithviraj Deshmukh, Sangli district unit chief of the BJP, for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct, the office of Maharashtra's Chief Electoral Officer said Saturday. According to Babu, the chief minister has moved a civil suit in the high court in connection with the issue and has obtained an injunction against certain people from making such statements.- PTI He alleged that Stalin and the DMK with an intention to cause disrepute, to defame, and damage the name and reputation of Chief Minister K Palaniswami has been circulating video clips, making allegations linking the chief minister to the Kodanad Estate murder and robbery case. RM Babu Murugavel submitted that the code of conduct prohibits levelling false statements by any candidate or his agent or any other person in public domain. A spokesperson of the ruling AIADMK has approached the Madras High Court seeking a direction to the State Chief Electoral Officer for taking action on a complaint against DMK chief M K Stalin for alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct. This comes after the BJP leader (Choubey) was caught on camera while having a verbal altercation with Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) KK Upadhyay after the official had stopped his convoy for allegedly violating MCC. Giving clarifications over the incident, Choubey said, "I abide by the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), as I'm not the kind of guy who goes against the rules. But, I would like to mention that these people are stopping me from doing 'Chowkidari'. I will keep on raising my voice against them." Following a verbal altercation between Union Minister Ashwini Choubey and a government official over alleged violation of Model Code of Conduct, an FIR has been lodged against 150 people including Choubey. The FIR also names BJP leader Rana Pratap Singh and various other leaders. The said 150 accused have been booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) including 'assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty'. Singh courted controversy last week when he told reporters in Aligarh on 23 March that everyone wants Modi to win and that its necessary for the country. Hum sabhi log BJP ke karyakarta hai aur iss naatey se hum zaroor chahengey ke BJP vijai ho. Sab chahengey ek baar phir sey kendra mein Modiji pradhanmantri banein. Modiji ka pradhanmantri banna ye desh ke liye avashyak hai, samaaj ke liye avashyak hai (We are all BJP workers, so we will want the BJP to win. Everyone will want Modi to become PM again. Modi becoming PM is necessary for the nation and society), he had said. The Election Commission has found Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singhs remark that Narendra Modi should be re-elected as the Prime Minister violative of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and the commission will write to President Ram Nath Kovind to bring it to his notice, The Indian Express reported. "Congress ke log aatankwadiyon ko biryani khilate they aur Modi ji ki sena aatankwadiyon ko goli aur gola deti hai (Congress would feed biryani to terrorists, while Modi's army gives them bullets and bombs). This is the difference. The Congress people use 'ji' to refer to Masood Azhar to encourage terrorism," Adityanath had said at an election rally in Ghaziabad on Sunday. The Election Commission on Monday took cognizance of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yodi Adityanath referring to the Indian Army as 'Modi ji ki sena'. The district magistrate of Ghaziabad has been asked to furnish a report in this regard, a functionary said. The report will be submitted to the office of chief electoral officer of Uttar Pradesh which has sought the details after taking cognizance of media reports in this regard. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) filed a Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violation complaint against BJP accusing it of advertising on commercial taxis in the run-up to the general elections. AAP has alleged that some public service vehicles are being used for political advertisement by BJP and were spotted plying in Delhi. It also mentioned that such advertisement was in violation of the Delhi Transport Policy. Delhi Transport policy also forbids political advertisement through any vehicle which is being used for transporting passengers, the letter reads. In its letter, AAP has also given the number and image of a car which it claims was spotted on 2 April, carrying an advertisement of the BJP in Delhi. Meanwhile, the producers of PM Narendra Modi, which is slated for release on Friday, have already replied to the poll panel's notice to them on the Oppositions' complaint against the film. Earlier, Opposition parties had alleged "political intent" in the release of the Vivek Oberoi-starrer and had complained to the poll watchdog, claiming that 'PM Narendra Modi' would serve as an advertisement for the BJP. Till Tuesday, the Election Commission had been awaiting the BJP's reply to a plea by Opposition parties seeking to prevent its screening amid the ongoing poll process. Since the complaint to the commission had mentioned BJP in it, its copy was sent to the party for its reply. The Election Commission has given its approval for the release of the biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reports said . News18 reported sources as saying that the Election Commission has asked the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to decide on whether to allow the release of 'PM Narendra Modi'. CEO Krishna said he has directed collectors of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar to inquire into the matter. "I have received that complaint. I have directed collectors of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar districts to conduct an inquiry into the matter," he said. On Saturday, Shah had addressed a gathering near Sardar Patel's statue in Naranpura area of Ahmedabad before participating in a 4 km-long road show from Naranpura to Ghatlodia. He then left for Gandhinagar to file his nomination papers. In its complaint, the Congress alleged that despite knowing that three big hospitals with emergency and trauma care are situated close to the Sardar Patel statue, loudspeakers were used during Shah's rally at the venue. Such use of the loud speakers near the hospitals is a clear violation of the model code of conduct, the party said. The Gujarat Congress on Tuesday lodged a complaint of model code violation against BJP chief and party's Gandhinagar nominee Amit Shah's rally cum roadshow on 30 March alleging that loudspeakers were used near hospitals. In its complaint sent to Gujarat Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S Murali Krishna through fax, the Opposition party demanded necessary action against Shah for "violating" the poll code. The Election Commission had sought a response from the ministry on the 24-hour TV channel 'NaMo TV' based on a complaint filed by the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). In its reply, the information and broadcasting ministry told the polling watchdog that NaMo TV is not a licensed channel but a direct-to-home (DTH) advertisement platform, reported India Today. Hema, who is re-contesting elections from Mathura, held a public rally in the premises of a government school in Chaumuha on Tuesday. Mathura DM SR Mishra told ANI that permission was granted to BJP MP Hema Malini to hold a public meeting but not at a govt school premises. He said that if a violation of model code of conduct is found, a FIR will be registered against the concerned persons and appropriate action will be taken. 4 April, Thursday | Hema Malini did not have permission to conduct public meeting at govt school, action will be taken: Mathura DM The Congress had questioned the decision to run the address in full. EC had asked DD News for complete information on coverage of various political parties and prominent leaders to assess whether there was any truth in Congress allegations of preferential treatment to the ruling party. In response to a notice from the Election Commission of India, DD News is learnt to have defended its decision to run Prime Minister Narendra Modis 1.24-hour public address Main Bhi Chowkidar in full on 31 March on the grounds of its high news value". According to The Economic Times' report , DD News, in its response, has said that that various other private TV channels also ran the address in its entirety due to the same reason. When contacted for his reaction, Joshi said "it is for the Election Commission to decide on the matter." He alleged that the report was deliberately released at this point of time just to benefit the ruling TRS. In a complaint to the EC on 6 April, G Niranjan, Convener,Election Commission Coordination Committee of state Congress, said Chief Secretary S K Joshi and other officials released the report on 5 April, "just five days before the elections, which is against the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)." The Congress in Telangana has requested the Election Commission to take action against the Chief Secretary and government officials for allegedly violating the model code of conduct for the 11 April Lok Sabha polls by releasing a report on the governments achievements. Singh had filed his nomination earlier on Monday in the presence of former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Jabalpur. The district administration also registered a First Information Report report against eight people in this regard. Madhya Pradesh BJP chief and Jabalpur candidate Rakesh Singh has been issued a show-cause notice for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct. The notice was issued to Singh for allegedly taking more than five people to the returning officer's room while filing nomination. Baghel, who also holds the post of state Congress president, reached the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Subrat Sahoo along with senior party leaders and handed over the written complaint. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel Monday lodged a complaint of alleged poll code violation against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making statements about the Army and surgical strikes during his public meeting held in Balod district of the state on 6 April. 9 April | Addressing first-time voters, Narendra Modi invokes Pulwama attack, Balakot air strikes at Latur rally Prime Minister Narendra Modi violated the Model Code of Conduct on Tuesday, by appealing to first-time voters in Maharashtras Latur to vote for the BJP government for carrying out the Balakot air strikes against Pakistan reportedly as a response to Pulwama terror attack that killed over 40 CRPF soldiers in February. Addressing a rally in Latur, where he shared the stage with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Modi urged first-time voters to exercise their franchise carefully. You will remember you first vote for all of your life. Would you dedicate your first vote to the brave soldiers who conducted the Balakot air strikes in Pakistan? Would your first vote honour the CRPF soldiers who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack? Modi said. Through a notification dated 9 March, the Election Commission (EC) had asked political parties to not use the armed forces for political advertisements or campaigns. The Armed Forces of a nation are the guardian of its frontiers, security and political system. They are apolitical and neutral stakeholders in a modern democracy. It is therefore necessary that political parties and leaders exercise great caution while making any reference to the armed forces in their political campaigns. The Commission is of the view that photographs of Chief of Army Staff or any other Defence personnel and photographs of functions of Defence Forces should not be associated with or used in any manner in advertisement/propaganda/campaigning or in any other manner in connection with elections by political parties and candidates, the EC had said in the notification. The prime minister had allegedly violated the MCC last month as well while addressing the nation after the successful completion of the A-SAT test by the DRDO. The Meerut District Magistrate is expected to file a report on the matter by 11 am on Wednesday. The BJP leader said Dalit-Muslim unity is impossible, and in Bareilly, he accused Mayawati of hurting Dalit sentiments with her call to Muslim voters at a rally in Saharanpur's Deoband. "Agar Congress, SP (Samajwadi Party), BSP ko Ali par vishwaas hai, toh humein bhi Bajrangbali par vishwaas hai (If the Congress, the SP and the BSP have faith in Ali, then we too have faith in Bajrang Bali)," the BJP leader said at an election meeting in Meerut. Attacking Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati for recently appealing to Muslims to vote for the Opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh, Adityanath said now the Hindus have no option but to vote for the BJP. The Election Commission has taken cognisance of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath's remarks at Meerut on Tuesday, with which he seemed to suggest that Hindu and Muslim voters were in an Ali-Bajrangbali contest. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday sent a notice to Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao for violation of Model Code of Conduct over his derogatory remark against Hindus at a public rally in Karimnagar on 17 March, PTI reported. The Commission has produced his remarks in Telugu but did not give English translation of the same. "... the Commission is, prima facie, of the opinion that by making the aforesaid statement which has the potential of disturbing the harmony and aggravating existing differences between social and religious communities, and appealing to communal feelings, you have violated the ... the Model Code of Conduct," the notice served Tuesday said. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is learned to have directed the Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi to ensure that the contents of NaMo TV are pre-certified by the local media certification and monitoring committee. The EC has also asked the CEO to inform whether the political contents were at any time cleared by the certification committee. The commission has ruled that the channel which touted as BJPs purported advertising portal carried by DTH operators, should be subjected to content certification regime, like all other political advertisements during the poll code period. The Election Commission of India on Wednesday stalled the release of PM Narendra Modi, a day before it was set to hit theatres. The election watchdog has ruled that no biopics can be released during elections as the political content in such movies "threaten level playing field". District poll authorities issued her with a show cause notice. The Election Commission in Delhi is also examining the transcript of the minister's speech, which was condemned by the Congress. In a controversial remark, Union minister Maneka Gandhi has told Muslims to vote for her as they will need her once the Lok Sabha elections are over. We are not Mahatma Gandhi's children that we keep giving and not get anything in return, she said in Sultanpur's Muslim-dominated Turabkhani area on Thursday. A case registered against her under the 171-D and 171-F of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in the Kopar Khairane police station. 58-year-old Mhatre had won the Belapur assembly seat on BJP ticket in the 2014 assembly election in Maharashtra. A case was registered against BJP MLA Manda Mhatre for allegedly violating MCC. Mhatre was accused of flouting Election Commission's norms by requesting voters to cast their ballots twice in favour of Rajan Baburao Vichare, a sitting Member of Parliament (MP) from Thane Lok Sabha constituency, while campaigning for him on 13 April. BJP also complained against Congress spokesperson Sunil Kauthankar for allegedly violating MCC "while addressing a press conference, wherein he has grossly misinterpreted the statement of BJP national president Amit Shah and has tried to spread lies." Goa BJP complained to the Election Commission (EC) against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by propagating fear-mongering among Christian and Muslim community at a public meeting. Kejriwal was in Goa on 13 April to address a public meeting at Margao in south Goa. "Arvind Kejriwal has blatantly violated MCC by way of inciting religious sentiments in his speech," read the letter. "Arvind Kejriwal has been reported to have made utterances such as 'Mob lynching taking place in the country under the guise of cattle theft is actually organised murder," said the complaint. "He also tried to propagate fear-mongering among the Christian and Muslim community by his utterance that 'Christian and Muslim will be driven into the sea under the guise of infiltrators," it read. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath was seen visiting a temple on Tuesday morning, a day after the Election Commission citing Article 324 of the Constitution barred him from holding any public meetings, public processions, public rallies, road shows and interviews, public utterances in media (electronic, print and social media) in connection with the ongoing Lok Sabha election. He was handed a 72-hour ban for delivering a communal or hate speech during one of his rallies. Though the BJP leader did not defy the ban by participating in a poll campaign, he did violate the spirit of election by making a public visit to the temple. A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Gujarat Ramesh Katara on Tuesday reportedly told villagers at a rally in Dahod constituency that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has installed cameras in polling booths and he will come to know who votes for whom in the Lok Sabha elections. Katara has been served a show-cause notice by the Dahod collector and district election officer VL Kharadi for his remarks and also notice by the Election Commission (EC) for violation of MCC. The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP has written to the Election Commission demanding an FIR against Ghulam Nabi Azad, Vikramaditya Singh and Waqar Rasool Wani for allegedly violating the model code of conduct, ANI reported. The Election Commission has taken cognisance of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's remarks that former Mumbai Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare, who died during the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, met his untimely death due to bad karma, and ordered an enquiry into the same. Thakur on Friday had said that the former ATS met his unfortunate fate because he had "tortured" her during the investigation of the 2008 Malegaon blast case. A complaint was filed against the BJP candidate from Bhopal with the Madhya Pradesh EC hours after she made the controversial statement. The poll panel pointed out that an FIR has already been lodged against him in Bihar's Kathiar under some sections of the penal code and section 123 of the Representation of the People Act. The Punjab minister has been asked to respond within 24 hours, failing which the EC will take a decision without further reference to him. The EC said prima facie he has violated provisions of the model code of conduct, election law and a Supreme Court direction asking politicians not to mix religion with political discourse while electioneering. The Election Commission on Saturday issued a showcause notice to Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar. Singhvi alleged the EC hesitates in taking action against one-two persons sitting on top posts. He said: "The EC listens to us. They act on our request. It is, however, unfortunate that the EC hesitates in taking action against one-two people sitting on tops posts of the country." He also expressed his disappointment over the ECIs inaction on another complaint earlier submitted by the Congress against Modi for allegedly violating the MCC by citing the services at a rally in Maharashtra on 9 April. "It is very distressing and sad that the very credibility of an independent police force of the elections is at stake. We showed the EC a video of Modis campaigning. We have demanded a ban on him for 48 to 72 hours from campaigning, and also on Shah," he said. A Congress delegation led by Abhishek Manu Singhvi met the Election Commission officials and sought action against Modi for holding a procession after casting his vote on Tuesday in Ahmedabad. They also requested the EC to act against Shah for repeatedly citing the services of armed forces in his election rallies. "The Prime Minister is violating the Model Code Conduct (MCC) shamelessly and advertently. He made political statements, held a procession after casting his votes today," Singhvi told reporters. The Congress spokesman said: "On Monday we had filed a written complaint to the EC that Modi would violate the Model Code of Conduct by holding a procession after casting his vote." Singhvi termed Modi as a "habitual, egregious and completely uncaring offender". The Congress party on Tuesday sought to impose 48 to 72 hours ban on campaigning by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The party has requested the ECI and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Jammu and Kashmir Shailendra Kumar to take appropriate action against the three leaders under the rules and regulations governing MCC and relevant provisions of Representation of the People Act, 1951. BJP has further requested the ECI to debar Azad from campaigning for Congress in the country. The BJP, in a complaint filed on Thursday, accused Waqar Rasool Wani, who was campaigning for Congress' candidate from Udhampur-Doda parliamentary constituency Vikramaditya Singh, of violating MCC by campaigning on polling day and requesting voters of a particular religion to vote for their party. In the audio clip, a copy of which has been sent to the ECI, Wani could be heard saying that Ghulam Nabi Azad, who is currently campaigning in Kerala, called him up and directed him to appeal to the voters of the erstwhile Doda region belonging to particular community to cast their votes on communal lines, BJP claimed. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has moved the Election Commission of India (ECI) demanding FIR against Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad, Vikramaditya Singh and an ex-MLA of Banihal town for allegedly violating Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls in the state. The Election Commission has taken cognisance of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's remarks that former Mumbai Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare, who died during the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, met his untimely death due to bad karma, and ordered an enquiry into the same. Thakur on Friday had said that the former ATS met his unfortunate fate because he had "tortured" her during the investigation of the 2008 Malegaon blast case. A complaint was filed against the BJP candidate from Bhopal with the Madhya Pradesh EC hours after she made the controversial statement. The poll panel pointed out that an FIR has already been lodged against him in Bihar's Kathiar under some sections of the penal code and section 123 of the Representation of the People Act. The Punjab minister has been asked to respond within 24 hours, failing which the EC will take a decision without further reference to him. The EC said prima facie he has violated provisions of the model code of conduct, election law and a Supreme Court direction asking politicians not to mix religion with political discourse while electioneering. The Election Commission on Saturday issued a showcause notice to Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar. While addressing a rally in Jalna on Sunday, BJP leader Pankaja Munde said: "We did surgical strike after cowardly attack on our soldiers (by Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pulwama). Some peole ask what was surgical strike and what's the evidence? I say we should've attached a bomb to Rahul Gandhi and should have sent him to another country. Then they would have understood." The Election Commission found Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu guilty of violating model code of conduct for appealing for Muslim votes. It has banned him from campaigning for 72 hours. Singhvi alleged the EC hesitates in taking action against one-two persons sitting on top posts. He said: "The EC listens to us. They act on our request. It is, however, unfortunate that the EC hesitates in taking action against one-two people sitting on tops posts of the country." He also expressed his disappointment over the ECIs inaction on another complaint earlier submitted by the Congress against Modi for allegedly violating the MCC by citing the services at a rally in Maharashtra on 9 April. "It is very distressing and sad that the very credibility of an independent police force of the elections is at stake. We showed the EC a video of Modis campaigning. We have demanded a ban on him for 48 to 72 hours from campaigning, and also on Shah," he said. A Congress delegation led by Abhishek Manu Singhvi met the Election Commission officials and sought action against Modi for holding a procession after casting his vote on Tuesday in Ahmedabad. They also requested the EC to act against Shah for repeatedly citing the services of armed forces in his election rallies. "The Prime Minister is violating the Model Code Conduct (MCC) shamelessly and advertently. He made political statements, held a procession after casting his votes today," Singhvi told reporters. The Congress spokesman said: "On Monday we had filed a written complaint to the EC that Modi would violate the Model Code of Conduct by holding a procession after casting his vote." Singhvi termed Modi as a "habitual, egregious and completely uncaring offender". The Congress party on Tuesday sought to impose 48 to 72 hours ban on campaigning by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Taking a jibe at the poll panel, he said the Congress is saddened to say that it seems that from the second word of Election Commission, 'C' has been dropped, and it has become "Election Omission" for the Modi-Shah duo. "We have a right to approach the courts seeking action over model code violations... we can exercise that option... the mega policeman has turned a blind eye," Singhvi said, adding that silence can be construed as approval. The two leaders have "cheated" on the issue of level playing field for all parties during elections and questioned the "silence of mega policeman" Election Commission (EC), Senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi alleged at a press conference. Alleging that the Model Code of Conduct has become "Modi code of conduct", the Congress on Saturday questioned the EC's "silence" over poll code "violations" by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah, and said it may approach courts to seek action against the duo. Satti said that the alleged speech was circulated on social and print media by the Congress party workers who intended to malign and rapture of his image. In his reply to Mandi District Electoral Officer, he said, "I was not having any political vendetta or intention against any of the workers or leaders of any of the political party/opponents. I never made any false, derogatory or inciting remarks, as alleged in the notice under reply. Moreover, the wording of my speech was taken otherwise by press correspondents," he added. "Our leaders are sitting on the dais. If anyone dares to raise their finger, we would chop their hands off. We are not nincompoops. We are not a group of stupid people," Satti had said addressing a rally in Mandi on Wednesday. Himachal Pradesh BJP president Satpal Singh Satti on Saturday replied to the Election Commission's notice over his "will chop off hands of those who point fingers at BJP leaders" remark and denied making any false, inciting or derogatory remark. Kejriwal said even Pakistan wants to divide India and accused BJP of fulfilling Pakistans agenda. "The BJP is fulfilling Pakistan's agenda of dividing India," he added. "Can it be done, is it possible. At least 20-25 crore people come from these religions. So I want to ask Amit Shah what is your plan. Are you going to throw all these people, throw them in the Pacific Ocean or would they be mob lynched? What will be done with all these people," Kejriwal had asked. Quoting Shah's tweet, Kejriwal said this means the BJP's plan is to remove all religions except Buddhists, Hindus and Sikhs from the country. "He has made the highly provocative speech which has the tone and tenor to aggravate existing differences or create mutual hatred between different religious communities, and thus violative of provisions of MCC. That such statements that have the undertone and propensity to polarize the elections" the BJP's letter to the EC said. "Arvind Kejriwal with the sole intention of creating panic and mutual hatred between the communities made a deliberate and false statement. Kejriwal is trying to mislead the people of India by saying that BJP considers Muslims, Christians, Jains, Parsis and other minorities in India as infiltrators..," read the complaint. Shah had in his tweet had said: "We will remove every single infiltrator from the country except Buddhists, Hindus and Sikhs". The BJP has written to Election Commission of India (EC) alleging that Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convener Arvind Kejriwal had violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) with his statement related to a tweet by BJP president Amit Shah. Kher later said she has sent her reply to the EC. The EC had subsequently instructed that it should be ensured by all political parties and election officials that children are not involved in any election-related activity, as per the notice. In the notice, it was mentioned that the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights in January, 2017 had requested the EC to ensure that children are not involved in any form with election-related activities, by either election officials or political parties. "You have shared a video on your Twitter account which shows that children are being used for election campaign in your favour through slogan 'Vote for Kirron Kher' and 'Ab Ki Baar Modi Sarkar'," the notice issued on 3 May said. However, in her reply, Kher said it was done "unintentionally", acknowledging that it was "wrong". The Election Commission (EC) has issued a notice to BJP's Chandigarh candidate Kirron Kher, seeking a reply after she shared a video on Twitter in which children were seen campaigning for her. Lok Sabha Election 2019; Model Code of Conduct Watch: The Election Commission (EC) has issued a notice to BJP's Chandigarh candidate Kirron Kher, seeking a reply after she shared a video on Twitter in which children were seen campaigning for her. However, in her reply, Kher said it was done "unintentionally", acknowledging that it was "wrong". The poll panel had asked the actor-turned-politician to reply within 24 hours. "You have shared a video on your Twitter account which shows that children are being used for election campaign in your favour through slogan 'Vote for Kirron Kher' and 'Ab Ki Baar Modi Sarkar'," the notice issued on 3 May said. Alleging that the Model Code of Conduct has become "Modi code of conduct", the Congress on Saturday questioned the EC's "silence" over poll code "violations" by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah, and said it may approach courts to seek action against the duo. The two leaders have "cheated" on the issue of level playing field for all parties during elections and questioned the "silence of mega policeman" Election Commission (EC), Senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi alleged at a press conference. The Congress party on Tuesday sought to impose 48 to 72 hours ban on campaigning by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). A Congress delegation led by Abhishek Manu Singhvi met the Election Commission officials and sought action against Modi for holding a procession after casting his vote on Tuesday in Ahmedabad. They also requested the EC to act against Shah for repeatedly citing the services of armed forces in his election rallies. The Election Commission found Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu guilty of violating model code of conduct for appealing for Muslim votes. It has banned him from campaigning for 72 hours from 10 am on Tuesday. BJP leader Pankaja Munde said on Monday that a bomb should be tied around Congress president Rahul Gandhi and sent to the neighbouring country for questioning surgical strikes. While addressing a rally in Jalna on Sunday, Munde said: "We did surgical strike after cowardly attack on our soldiers (by Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pulwama). Some peole ask what was surgical strike and what's the evidence? I say we should've attached a bomb to Rahul Gandhi and should have sent him to another country. Then they would have understood." The Election Commission on Saturday issued a showcause notice to Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar. The Election Commission has taken cognisance of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's remarks that former Mumbai Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare, who died during the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, met his untimely death due to bad karma, and ordered an enquiry into the same. Thakur on Friday had said that the former ATS met his unfortunate fate because he had "tortured" her during the investigation of the 2008 Malegaon blast case Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has moved the Election Commission of India (ECI) demanding FIR against Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad, Vikramaditya Singh and an ex-MLA of Banihal town for allegedly violating Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls in the state. The BJP, in a complaint filed on Thursday, accused Waqar Rasool Wani, who was campaigning for Congress' candidate from Udhampur-Doda parliamentary constituency Vikramaditya Singh, of violating MCC by campaigning on polling day and requesting voters of a particular religion to vote for their party. A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Gujarat Ramesh Katara on Tuesday reportedly told villagers at a rally in Dahod constituency that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has installed cameras in polling booths and he will come to know who votes for whom in the Lok Sabha elections. Katara has been served a show-cause notice by the Dahod collector and district election officer VL Kharadi for his remarks and also notice by the Election Commission (EC) for violation of MCC. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath was seen visiting a temple on Tuesday morning, a day after the Election Commission citing Article 324 of the Constitution barred him from holding any public meetings, public processions, public rallies, road shows and interviews, public utterances in media (electronic, print and social media) in connection with the ongoing Lok Sabha election. He was handed a 72-hour ban for delivering a communal or hate speech during one of his rallies. Though the BJP leader did not defy the ban by participating in a poll campaign, he did violate the spirit of election by making a public visit to the temple. Goa BJP complained to the Election Commission (EC) against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by propagating fear-mongering among Christian and Muslim community at a public meeting. Kejriwal was in Goa on 13 April to address a public meeting at Margao in south Goa, where, BJP alleged, the AAP leader said that "Christian and Muslim will be driven into the sea under the guise of infiltrators". The Goa Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) ordered an inquiry into an alleged hate speech given by a Christian priest against the BJP following a complaint from the party. A video of the priest from South Goa addressing some people inside a church had gone viral in which the priest, speaking in Konkani, is seen criticising the BJP, party president Amit Shah, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and late Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar. A case was registered against BJP MLA Manda Mhatre for allegedly violating MCC. Mhatre was accused of flouting Election Commission's norms by requesting voters to cast their ballots twice in favour of Rajan Baburao Vichare, a sitting Member of Parliament (MP) from Thane Lok Sabha constituency, while campaigning for him on 13 April. In a controversial remark, Union minister Maneka Gandhi has told Muslims to vote for her as they will need her once the Lok Sabha elections are over. We are not Mahatma Gandhi's children that we keep giving and not get anything in return, she said in Sultanpur's Muslim-dominated Turabkhani area on Thursday. District poll authorities issued her with a show cause notice. The Election Commission in Delhi is also examining the transcript of the minister's speech, which was condemned by the Congress. The Election Commission of India on Wednesday stalled the release of PM Narendra Modi, a day before it was set to hit theatres. The election watchdog has ruled that no biopics can be released during elections as the political content in such movies "threaten level playing field". Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh wrote to the Election Commission over the 'shockingly disgraceful' invocation of the Balakot air strikes and Pulwama terror attack during his speech in Maharashtra's Latur on 9 April. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is learned to have directed the Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi to ensure that the contents of NaMo TV are pre-certified by the local media certification and monitoring committee. The EC has also asked the CEO to inform whether the political contents were at any time cleared by the certification committee. The commission has ruled that the channel which touted as BJPs purported advertising portal carried by DTH operators, should be subjected to content certification regime, like all other political advertisements during the poll code period. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday sent a notice to Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao for violation of Model Code of Conduct over his derogatory remark against Hindus at a public rally in Karimnagar on 17 March, ANI reported. The commission also issued show cause notices to producers of two TV serials following allegations that the shows were violating the Model Code of Conduct by promoting various government schemes. The Election Commission has taken cognizance of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath's remarks at Meerut on Tuesday, with which he seemed to suggest that Hindu and Muslim voters were in an "Ali-Bajrangbali" contest. "If the Congress, the SP and the BSP have faith in Ali, then we too have faith in Bajrang Bali," the BJP leader said at an election meeting. The Meerut District Magistrate is expected to file a report on the matter by 11 am on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi violated the Model Code of Conduct on Tuesday, by appealing to first-time voters in Maharashtras Latur to vote for the BJP government for carrying out the Balakot air strikes against Pakistan reportedly as a response to Pulwama terror attack that killed over 40 CRPF soldiers. Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel Monday lodged a complaint of alleged poll code violation against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making statements about the Army and surgical strikes during his public meeting held in Balod district of the state on 6 April. The Madhya Pradesh BJP chief and Jabalpur candidate Rakesh Singh has been issued a show cause notice for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The notice was for allegedly taking more than five people to the returning officer's room while filing his nomination. The Tripura unit of the Congress has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission (EC), seeking the immediate arrest of Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb for allegedly spreading communal hatred in the state. A case was registered against BSP leader Omar Ali Khan and his supporters for violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) as they carried out a procession on the road without permission and misbehaved with the SDM. In response to a notice from the Election Commission of India, DD News is learnt to have defended its decision to run Prime Minister Narendra Modis 1.24-hour public address Main Bhi Chowkidar in full on 31 March on the grounds of its high news value". Bharipa Bahujan Mahasangh chairperson and grandson of BR Ambedkar, Prakash Ambedkar, on Thursday threatened to take action against the Election Commission of India (ECI) if his party is voted to power. While addressing a public gathering at Yavatmal, Ambedkar called the Election Commission biased and slammed the organisation for directing political parties to not talk about the terror attack in Pulwama. The Congress had questioned the decision to run the address in full. EC had asked DD News for complete information on coverage of various political parties and prominent leaders to assess whether there was any truth in Congress allegations of preferential treatment to the ruling party. The District Magistrate of Mathura has said that BJP MP Hema Malini did not have permission to conduct a public meeting at a government school and appropriate action would be taken in the matter if MCC violation is found. Hema, who is re-contesting elections from Mathura, held a public rally in the premises of a government school in Chaumuha on Tuesday. In its reply to the Election Commission, the information and broadcasting ministry told the polling watchdog that NaMo TV is not a licensed channel but a direct-to-home (DTH) advertisement platform, reported India Today. The Election Commission has sought a response from the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry on the 24-hour TV channel 'NaMo TV' based on a complaint filed by the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The Madhya Pradesh Election Commission has sent a notice to Congress for using the Rafale issue in poll advertisements as the matter is sub-judice. EC has ordered Congress to take down the six advertisements using Rafale issue as a campaign plank of the party, India Today reporte The Gujarat Congress on Tuesday lodged a complaint of model code violation against BJP chief and party's Gandhinagar nominee Amit Shah's rally cum roadshow on 30 March alleging that loudspeakers were used near hospitals. In its complaint sent to Gujarat Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S Murali Krishna through fax, the Opposition party demanded necessary action against Shah for "violating" the poll code. The Election Commission (EC) has given its approval for the release of the biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reports said. News18 reported sources as saying that the Election Commission has asked the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to decide on whether to allow the release of 'PM Narendra Modi'. Niti Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar on Tuesday told the Election Commission that his comment son Congress' Nyay scheme were made in his personal capacity as an economist and should not be interpreted as Niti Aayogs stand on the Congress announcement. The Election Commission had pulled up Kumar for targeting Congress's minimum income guarantee scheme, NYAY during a media interview. Speaking to India Today, Kumar had said that the Congress has made the announcement only for the sake of winning the elections. "This is the worst kind of vote politics," he said. BJP MP from Mathura Hema Malini, who is re-contesting elections from the seat, may face a case of MCC violation for holding a public rally in the premises of a government school in Chaumuha on Tuesday, The Times of India reported. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) filed a Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violation complaint against BJP accusing it of advertising on commercial taxis in the run-up to the general elections. AAP alleged that some public service vehicles are being used for political advertisement by BJP and were spotted plying in Delhi. The Election Commission took cognizance of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yodi Adityanath referring to the Indian Army as 'Modi ji ki sena'. The district magistrate of Ghaziabad has been asked to furnish a report in this regard, a functionary said. The report will be submitted to the office of the chief electoral officer of Uttar Pradesh which has sought the details after taking cognizance of media reports in this regard. A case was registered against Samajwadi Party's Badaun candidate Dharmendra Yadav and three others for allegedly violating the model code of conduct. Yadav had apparently used a convoy of cars for campaigning. A video of the incident had also gone viral on social media. A case was registered and the matter is being investigated further. The Election Commission found Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singhs remark that Narendra Modi should be re-elected as the Prime Minister violative of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The commission will write to President Ram Nath Kovind to bring it to his notice, The Indian Express reported. Singh had courted controversy last week when he told reporters in Aligarh that everyone wants Modi to win and that its necessary for the country that he is re-elected. Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut was also served a notice by the Election Commission on Monday for his editorial in Shiv Sena mouthpiece Saamana in which he made reference to tampering of EVMs in Begusarai. Raut has been asked to give a clarification by 3 April to the notice issued by Mumbai District Election Officer Shivaji Jondhale. Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) wrote to the Election Commission on Monday complaining against the recently-launched "NaMo TV", asking the poll panel if political parties having TV channels was in adherence to the Model Code of Conduct. The Arvind Kejriwal-led party asked the EC if the BJP had sought approval for the launch of the channel, which has Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph on its logo and runs all his speeches. Following a verbal altercation between Union Minister Ashwini Choubey and a government official over alleged violation of Model Code of Conduct, an FIR has been lodged against 150 people including Choubey. The FIR also names BJP leader Rana Pratap Singh and various other leaders. The said 150 accused have been booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) including 'assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty'. A video had surfaced on Sunday purportedly showing Choubey, on the front seat of a vehicle, furiously reacting to the official who attempted to apprise the Union minister about Election Commission's order. Former JNU students union president Kanhaiya Kumar, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar's Begusarai as a CPI candidate, was booked for violation of Model Code of Conduct. Ministry of Railways reacted to the controversy over tea being served in Shatabdi train in 'Main bhi Chowkidar' cups. The railway officials said that the incident happened today but the cups were immediately withdrawn. The ministry said that these are not procured from any political party and penal action will be taken against the contractor, and the railways supervisor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech on 'Mission Shakti' did not violate the Model Code of Conduct, the Election Commission announced on Friday, even as the Opposition had accused the prime minister of violations and "publicity mongering". Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi and producer of film 'PM Narendra Modi', Sandeep Singh arrived at the Election Commission in Delhi on Thursday after complaints were filed over the release of the movie and ban of its trailer in light of the Model Code of Code (MCC) being in force ahead of the Lok Sabha election. The Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday sent a notice to four producers of the upcoming film 'PM Narendra Modi'. Congress and the CPM had complained to the commission about the film's release, saying it's being done with political intent. EC had earlier sent notices to two newspapers on 20 March over publishing 'PM Narendra Modi' film's poster for promotions. The Odisha Congress on Monday filed a complaint with Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the state against BJP's Lok Sabha candidate from Puri Sambit Patra alleging a violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The Odisha Pradesh Congress in its complaint said that Patra violated MCC by holding the idol of Lord Jagannath in his hand during an election rally. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has written to the Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Civil Aviation, asking them why the pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi were not removed from rail tickets and Air India boarding passes even after the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into effect. They've been asked to submit a reply within three days to the commission. After a Congress delegation met the Election Commission on Monday, Kapil Sibal told reporters, "We represented to the Election Commission that there is a film being made on Narendra Modi, to be released just a few days before election. It's purpose is political. Three producers and actor belong to BJP; the director is involved in 'Vibrant Gujarat' (investors' summit). This is violative of all norms." Karnataka Congress has asked the Election Commission to allow political parties to pre-view the biopic on Narendra Modi. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday said that Congress president Rahul Gandhis interaction with students of a womens college in Chennai did not violate the model code of conduct (MCC), though it has sought a report on his speech. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, led by Leader of Opposition Harpal Singh Cheema, filed a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer against cabinet minister Vijay Inder Singla for allegedly influencing voters of Sangrur by misusing his official position. Cheema alleged Singla had violated the model code of conduct by trying to induce voters by sanctioning funds worth crores for the repair of government schools. Actor-turned-politician Prakash Raj was booked by the Cubbon Park Police for violating the Model Code of Conduct as he was accused of using a mike and campaigning for elections at a public rally held at the Mahatma Gandhi Circle in Bangalore on 12 March. A Trinamool Congress (TMC) delegation comprising Derek O'Brien, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, and Chandan Mitra approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday to lodge a complaint against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modis photo was being published on railway tickets as part of a government scheme, which, the party said, was in violation of the MCC. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday wrote to the chief electoral officer (CEO) or Kerala in order to "file a complaint in relation to the malicious attempt by BJP and the Sabarimala Karma Samithi to vitiate free and fair polls in Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha constituency." He said that they did so "by publicising materials in a bid to appeal to religious sentiments of voters." The Delhi BJP on Tuesday filed a complaint with the Chief Electoral Office in the city, seeking action against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for allegedly "indulging in violent acts" and violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The BJP claimed AAP leaders, including Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, had burned copies of its 2014 manifesto on 13 March. Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India issued a showcause notice to BJP leader and Union minister Babul Supriyo for violating the MCC. The notice is related to a campaign song, which Supriyo allegedly promoted on electronic media and social media sites without a media certification from the EC. The Trinamool Congress had also registered a complaint against the song with the EC. In Kerala, the BJP complained to the Chief Electoral Officer in Thiruvananthapuram, claiming that the posters put up by the Congress related to MP Shashi Tharoor's book Why Am I A Hindu violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Tharoor, however, claimed they were not election posters. Gujarat Chief Electoral Officer S Murali Krishna has ordered an inquiry after the Congress, on Monday, filed a complaint alleging that the BJP had violated the MCC by holding a meeting of the party's state parliamentary board at Chief Minister Vijay Rupani's official residence. The Congress pointed out that the chief minister's official residence in Gandhinagar is a government property, and no political activity is permitted from a government premises when the poll code is in force. meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner of Baramulla (Jammu and Kashmir) on Monday rescinded transfers ordered by the districts assistant commissioner in violation of the model code of conduct, after the state government questioned the reshuffle affected despite standing directions. On the other hand, after last week's takedown notification to Facebook, the EC called all social media platforms including Google, Twitter, Whatsapp, ShareChat and Tiktok for a meet to discuss over their violative social media content, ad policy and response time over complaints on Tuesday. The meet comes in wake of confusion over ECs first takedown notice to Facebook regarding a Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violation on 13 March. A delegation led by Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) Election Commission Coordination Committee convenor G Niranjan complained to the CEO on MCC violation by Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao for inviting Congress leader and former home minister Sabitha Indra Reddy and her sons to his camp office on 13 March for deliberations and reportedly influencing them to joins TRS. BJD accused BJP of violating the Model Code of Conduct by allegedly shifting the Railway Electrification Board unit from Bhubaneswar to Bengaluru on 13 March after the announcement of the Lok Sabha election dates. Whereas, in order to put a check on the poll irregularities and other malfunctions ahead and during the Lok Sabha elections, a 24x7 control room was opened at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer in Bhubaneswar on Friday. BJPs Delhi unit wrote to the Election Commission to appoint special observers in mosques to prevent religion from influencing electoral outcomes. The BJP has squarely blamed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for polarising the voters on religious and caste lines and has stated that it is Arvind Kejriwal who has been delivering many inflammatory and baseless statements to polarise votes, especially in Muslim dominant areas. The Ranchi district administration on Monday filed a case of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violation against Union minister Jayant Sinha on a complaint by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha. In its complaint to Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer L Khiangte, the party claimed that Sinha had used the convocation ceremony at IIM-Ranchi to publicise the BJP government's achievements, violating the poll code. Meanwhile, the BJP on Monday filed a complaint against Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera for allegedly violating the MCC. In its complaint, the party claimed that Khera, during a news channel's event, had stated that 'Modi stands for Masood Azhar, Osama, Dawood and ISI.' The Congress registered its first Model Code of Conduct violation complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday. In Maharashtra, the party gave a written complaint to the chief electoral officer against government advertisements still being displayed outside state transport buses, bus stops and petrol pumps. Show cause notices were issued to BJP's Chandigarh chief Sanjay Tandon, four BJP councillors, two nominated councillors and three officials of the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh on Wednesday for violating the model code of conduct. The notice asked the officials to reply within 24 hours as to why disciplinary action may not be taken against them. In Arunachal Pradesh, the Nirjuli police under the supervision of Capital Complex Superintendent of Police Tumme Amo on Tuesday night seized Rs 15.6 lakh from undisclosed people for violation of the model code of conduct. Bahujan Samaj Party's (BSP) Pratapgarh Lok Sabha constituency in-charge Ashok Tripathi was among 68 booked for poll code violation on Wednesday. The ECI on Wednesday issued a notice to BJP's Jaipur MP Ramcharan Bohra and Rajasthan Congress' General Secretary Sunil Sharma for putting up posters in different locations across Jaipur depicting various operations done by the Indian Armed forces along with their own photos. It also asked both the politicians to file a reply within three days. The Commission on Wednesday issued a show-cause notice to Delhi BJP MLA Om Prakash Sharma for putting up two posters featuring him, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Facebook. The Commission asked him to take down the post and give a reply by Thursday. The Election Commission has asked all political parties to refrain from making reference to the armed forces during their campaign. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, hoardings and banners containing the photographs of Prime Minister Narendra Modi were removed from petrol pumps in New Delhi on Tuesday following the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct for Lok Sabha elections. ECI on 10 March, 2019 announced the dates of the seven-phase upcoming Lok Sabha election scheduled to begin on 11 April. The results will be announced on 23 May. The last polling date is 19 May. With the announcement of the schedule, the Model Code of Conduct kicked in the very same day. The ECI referred to its December 2013 letter in which it had "called upon all political parties to advise their candidates and leaders to desist from displaying photographs of defence personnel or photographs functions involving defence personnel in advertisements". More than 820 million citizens will cast their votes across India this year. The number of eligible voters has gone up by more than five times since the first General Election. Voter turnout has also increased from 46 percent in 1951-52 to 66 percent in 2014. In the last election held in 2014, there were roughly 815 million, but just 550 million exercised their right to vote. Lok Sabha Election 2019 will see over 1.5 crore first-time voters. These voters in the age group of 18-19 years constitute 1.66 percent of the total electorate. Two-thirds of Indians are under 35 years of age. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his latest blog post on Ram Manohar Lohia's birth anniversary, slammed the Congress once again, saying farmers were harassed, the industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored during the party's rule. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his latest blog post on Saturday, slammed the Congress once again, saying "farmers were harassed, the industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored" during the party's rule. The prime minister's blog was on the occasion of the birth anniversary of freedom fighter and socialist leader Dr Ram Manohar Lohia, who he wrote has been "let down" by the Congress. The prime minister launched yet another blistering attack on the Congress, reiterating the "dynastic politics" jibe, and also accusing the party of being anti-equality and participating in "vote bank politics" by opposing the NDA government's triple talaq legislature. Lauding Lohia for being a "prolific thinker, exceptional intellectual, revolutionary and devout patriot", Modi said he combined a "sharp mind and a penchant for mass politics". "Whenever the marginalised needed a voice, he was there," the prime minister said. Modi also praised the NDA government's efforts to relieve farmer distress, attributing the policies of "modernising agriculture and empowering farmers" to Lohia's school of thought. "The NDA government is effectively (carrying out Lohia's teachngs) through efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and more," the post read. In celebrating Lohia, Modi reflected on how his principles had been at odds with the Congress. "Dr Lohia knew how disastrous Congress was. Whenever Dr Lohia spoke, inside or outside Parliament, the Congress trembled with fear." He also said that by engaging in a "mahamilavat" (grand coming together) with the Congress, parties that claimed to be inspired by the freedom fighter were "leaving no opportunity to insult him". "Dr Lohia stated that one who works with Samta, Samanata and Samatva Bhaav is a Yogi. Sadly, the parties that claim to be his followers forgot this principle. They believe in Satta, Swarth and Shoshan. These parties are experts at grabbing power, looting as much as possible and exploiting others. Poor people, tribals, Dalits, OBCs and women are not safe in their rule because these parties give a free run to criminals and anti-social elements," Modi wrote. The prime minister had also written a blog on 20 March and said that "dynastic parties had never been comfortable with a free and vibrant press." In an interview to ANI on Friday, Pitroda, also the chairman of Overseas Indian National Congress, had questioned the death toll in the air strike by the Indian Air Force in Pakistan in retaliation to the Pulwama terror attack. New Delhi: Sam Pitroda, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's close confidant, on Friday said he is "baffled" at the response of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who slammed Pitroda for questioning the death toll in the Balakot air strike in Pakistan. "I just said as a citizen I'm entitled to know what happened. I don't understand what is the controversy here, I am baffled at the response. Shows how people react to trivial matters in India," he said. I am surprised and literally shocked at the nationwide response and associated discussion, debate and dialogue on my ANI interview of 22nd March 2019.#TRUTH Sam Pitroda (@sampitroda) March 23, 2019 I believe Indian media went to town in taking things out of context to misquote and misrepresent facts, message and meaning. I was not surprised at some of the modern Indian Media and their intent and approach.#TRUTH Sam Pitroda (@sampitroda) March 23, 2019 In an interview to ANI earlier on Friday, Pitroda, also the chairman of Overseas Indian National Congress, had questioned the death toll in the air strike by the Indian Air Force in Pakistan in retaliation to the Pulwama terror attack. Reacting to the remarks, Prime Minister Modi hit out at Pitroda, tweeting that Pitroda "kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of the Congress". Pakistan observes its National Day on 23 March. The most trusted advisor and guide of the Congress President has kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of the Congress, ironically by demeaning Indias armed forces. Shame! https://t.co/puSjTK8Y4x Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 22, 2019 "What is the problem in raising a question? As a citizen in democracy, discussion, dialogue, debate, discourse is a way of life," Pitroda said. BJP president Amit Shah and several other party leader also lambasted Pitroda for his comments in the interview. When I came home after a morning meeting,I had over 20 television reporters waiting to get my comments on the interview & ask more questions. At the same time,I had 100s of compliments and good wishes from people all over the world for the courage to ask what needed to be asked Sam Pitroda (@sampitroda) March 23, 2019 If Sam Pitroda, the Congress' overseas wing chief, still doesn't get what the controversy over his remarks is, then one really can't say much. It is inexplicable why the Mani Shankar Aiyar syndrome hits the Congress during elections. It was in 2014 when the phenomenon first affected the party when it was battling a spirited charge from Narendra Modi, who spoke of "ache din" and promised a "Congress mukt" India. An irate Aiyar, during an All India Congress Committee meeting in New Delhi in January 2014, had mocked the then Gujarat chief minister's background and prime ministerial ambitions. "I promise you, in the 21st Century, Narendra Modi will never become the prime minister of the country... But if he wants to distribute tea here, we will find a place for him," Aiyar had told reporters. Mani Shankar trending for no fault of his own. Least we can do is revisit his glory days: pic.twitter.com/L7Z68VdlqF Shiv Aroor (@ShivAroor) March 22, 2019 Aiyar's clairvoyance turned out to be inaccurate. His elitist jibe helped Modi launch the "Chai pe Charcha" campaign and the BJP hoist the Congress with its own petard. Already unpopular, the Congress was left reacting to charges of elitism and classism. Three years later, Aiyar repeated the same mistake during the Gujarat Assembly elections, calling the prime minister "neech" a jibe that could either mean low born or vile. Modi called it a casteist slur, and according to some analysts, that loose remark may have cost Congress the tight battle. Aiyar started trending again on Friday, though for no fault of his this time. His brand recall is so strong that every blunder by the Congress before the elections has become synonymous with his name. The latest to be hit by the syndrome is Sam Pitroda, the chief of the party's overseas wing, who managed to breathe fresh life into the BJP's nationalism plank with less than a month to go before the polls. Pitroda did several things at once to the BJP's joy he questioned the Balakot airstrikes, appeared to demean the seriousness of the 2008 terror attacks in Mumbai, gave Pakistan the benefit of the doubt on terrorism, made Congress look indecisive on the issue of national security and seemed blase about the controversy his comments created. Quite incredibly, the US-based technocrat-turned-politician also managed to sound elitist and classist about Indians. While questioning the airstrikes carried out by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pitroda, during an interview to a news agency, pointed out that the government has not released any official data on the operation. However, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, the IAF and tri-services chiefs have clarified that India's objectives behind targeting the terror infrastructure at Balakot had been met. Sam Pitroda,Indian Overseas Congress Chief on #airstrike: I would like to know more as I have read in New York Times &other newspapers, what did we really attack, we really killed 300 people? pic.twitter.com/oRacba2jtE ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2019 Pitroda is correct in his statement that global media has disputed India's claims. It is also true that Pakistan has prevented journalists from accessing the site of the airstrikes at Jabba Top in Balakot, where India claims to have dropped payload and eliminated a "large number of terrorists and their trainers". In fact, Islamabad has prevented a team of Reuters journalists three times from climbing the hill to visit the targeted Jaish-e-Muhammad seminary. Foreign media's assessment is largely based on commercially available satellite imagery. The Print recently cited "high resolution satellite images in possession of the government" to report that "Israeli Spice 2000 bombs, each of them weighing 900 kilograms with 95 kilograms of explosives, did drop on at least two targets" and "the main training centre" of the JeM were "conclusively hit". As an individual, Pitroda reserves the right to be sceptical about the government's claims and to disbelieve even the IAF's clarification that its mission was successful. But to express that scepticism ahead of the elections, where national security is a big issue, is bad planning that indicates his inability to understand the dynamics of the nationalism debate in the public arena. Pitroda's comments also contradict Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's own stance of congratulating the IAF for its valour. But Pitroda does more. In an apparent moment of "inspiration", he also appears to trivialise the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai and absolve the State of Pakistan of complicity in the crime. Pitroda's comments are a study in how political parties should not react. While trying to sound like a pacifist, he also got his facts and terminology wrong. Ten jihadis had entered Mumbai by sea that fateful night, not eight, and they were terrorists, not "people". They also didn't just "do something" but shot to kill hundreds of innocent civilians and take hostages in a macabre drama. It perplexes one to fathom how Pitroda, who isn't short on intellect, can make such insensitive remarks. It is also naive in the extreme to suggest that the Ajmal Kasabs were "non-State actors" who had acted on their own and not at the behest of Pakistan's military-intelligence establishment. During the interview, Pitroda also made Congress look indecisive and weak on the national security front seemingly verifying the charge the BJP has made against it repeatedly while seeking to contrast the response of UPA-2 to 26/11 with the Modi government's decision to go for "pre-emptive strikes" in response to the terror attack in Pulwama. If Pitroda didn't really "know much about the attacks", it would have been wiser to keep his counsel. But he ended up pushing the Congress into a deep abyss and ceding the nationalism space in the debate entirely to the BJP. The grand old party tried to come up with a rebuttal and clarify that Pitroda's comments reflected his "personal viewpoint", but this is unlikely to cut much ice. The BJP has upped the ante with the prime minister and finance minister trying to reorient the party's campaign towards national security. Modi even went to the extent of firing a series of tweets with the hashtag #JantaMaafNahiKaregi. Opposition insults our forces time and again. I appeal to my fellow Indians- question Opposition leaders on their statements. Tell them- 130 crore Indians will not forgive or forget the Opposition for their antics. India stands firmly with our forces. #JantaMaafNahiKaregi https://t.co/rwpFKMMeHY Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 22, 2019 What may sting the Congress even more is the way Pitroda reacted after his comments had sparked a furore and shaped the national debate. "I just said as a citizen I am entitled to know what happened. I am not talking on the behalf of the party, just speaking as a citizen. I have the right to know, what is wrong in that? I don't understand what is the controversy here. I am baffled at the response. Shows how people react to trivial matters in India." If the Congress' overseas wing chief still doesn't get what the controversy is, sounds "literally shocked" and accuses Indians of reacting to trivia, then one really can't say much. His attitude reflects the grand old party's mood that seems bereft of a winning strategy in elections and walks, talks and behaves like an anti-establishment organisation out to corner the far-Left space in political discourse. We attempted to send a notification to your email address but we were unable to verify that you provided a valid email address. Please click here to update your email address if you wish to receive notifications. Otherwise, you may click here to disable notifications and hide this message. The only woman MP from Rajasthan in last Lok Sabha, Santosh Ahlawat, who was dropped by BJP in its first list of 16 out of total 25 candidates for upcoming parliamentary polls, has expressed anguish over the development saying the party 'sidelined' her despite works done for the constituency and the party. Jaipur: The only woman MP from Rajasthan in last Lok Sabha, Santosh Ahlawat, who was dropped by BJP in its first list of 16 out of total 25 candidates for upcoming parliamentary polls, has expressed anguish over the development saying the party "sidelined" her despite works done for the constituency and the party. "This is very disappointing that I was denied ticket despite the works I have done for the constituency as well as for the party and workers in five years. I took keen interest in promoting and encouraging birth of girl child and girls' education and also got huge support from people and party workers but my name was dropped for no reason, Ahlawat, Jhunjhunu MP, said. "Development of four highways, opening of passport office besides several other works took place in my tenure. In 2011, I initiated a campaign for promoting girl child birth and after that the performance of the constituency in 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' was remarkable and we got four awards for our performance, she said. Ahlawat claimed that the sex ratio which was 642 six years back has now now reached 942 in Jhunjhunu as a result of her efforts. "I am the only sitting woman MP in the state and worked for my constituency and people, yet the party did not consider me to retain on the seat. There is resentment among the party workers and supporters," she said. However, she said she will not be contesting election as a rebel candidate if the party did not field her as its official candidate. "I am working for the party for the last 35 years. It was a traditional Congress seat but BJP won it in 2014 with a high margin. In Parliament, I raised numerous questions and several developmental works were started. I also represented India in an UN conference, she added. The marriage of Ahlawat's daughter caught attention last year when her daughter came to the wedding venue in a horse chariot, something similar to a groom. "It set a trend. In conservative society, steps like this are not common but I took initiatives to promote women and girls. Celebrations take place when a girl child is born in Jhunjhunu, she said. A Jat leader, Ahlawat had won 2013-assembly elections and was fielded by the party in 2014-Lok Sabha polls which she won with a margin of 2.33 lakh votes. The party has dropped her and gave ticket to Narendra Khinchad. "It is the decision of the party," a senior BJP leader said. Lok sabha elections will be held in two phases in the state where 13 constituencies will go to poll on April 29 and remaining 12 seats on 6 May. Jhunjhunu, which has 19.24 lakh voters, is among 12 Lok Sabha constituencies which will go to poll in second phase on 6 May. The Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement will not contest the Lok Sabha elections, but Shah Faesal said the party will fight the Assembly polls. Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement will not contest the upcoming parliamentary elections, its leader and former IAS officer Shah Faesal announced on Saturday. However, he made it clear that the party will contest the legislative elections whenever they are conducted. "We are a newly formed party. The Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement is no longer just about Shah Faesal. After having discussions in the core committee, we decided not to contest the upcoming parliamentary polls," Faesal said while addressing a press conference in Srinagar. Stating the reasons behind this decision, he said, "First, that we are a newly formed party. Our focus is on people-to-people contact. Second, through this step, we want to reply to those people who were saying that this party has been brought by the Centre to increase electoral participation and manipulate the votes." Faesal claimed that his party is not eyeing elections or power. "The Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement is here to fight for a long time. We are here to restore the political and developmental rights of the people here and we are ready to wait for that," he said. "We will decide soon which party our cadres should support (in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections)," he added. On being asked about Legislative Assembly elections, he said, "Legislative elections are critical for us. Our special status is under attack. We will contest those elections whenever they will be held." Faesal also criticised "custodial killing" of a teacher in police custody last week and demanded the arrest of officers responsible for it. "We know a magisterial inquiry is going on. We believe that only a judicial inquiry can take it to the (right) conclusion," he said. He also condemned the death of a 12-year-old boy who was held hostage by militants and killed during an encounter in Hajin on Friday, urging "both competent (security forces and terrorists)" to refrain from human rights violations. Terming the Central government's recently imposed ban on Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) as anti-democracy, he said, "This will further shrink the democratic space here." Faesal appreciated New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern for her handling of the situation in the aftermath of Christchurch attack. "We believe the kind of leadership she (Jacinda Ardern) had shown is an example for the leaders of South Asian region. We hope that leaders of our nation, our neighbouring nations and South Asian regions will take similar steps to ensure the protection of minorities," he said. Reuters Elon Musks lawyers said that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission failed to satisfy its heavy burden of showing that the Tesla Inc chief executive should be held in contempt, and the tweet prompting its contempt motion was both proper and not material. In a Friday filing in Manhattan federal court, Musks lawyers also said their client respects his obligations to the electric car company, its shareholders and the court. Musk is trying to avoid being held in contempt for violating his October 2018 fraud settlement with the SEC, for having tweeted at 7:15 p.m. EST on Feb. 19 to his over 24 million Twitter followers that Tesla could build around 500,000 vehicles in 2019. SEC spokesman Ryan White declined to comment. Musks settlement, including $20 million civil fines for both him and Tesla, resolved an SEC lawsuit over an Aug. 7, 2018 Twitter post in which Musk said he had funding secured to take his Palo Alto, California-based company private at $420 a share. The SEC said Musk committed a blatant violation of that settlement by tweeting about Teslas production outlook without first seeking approval from the companys lawyers. In a Monday filing, the SEC went farther, complaining that Musk had never after the settlement sought pre-approval for any Tesla-related tweets. But in Fridays filing, Musks lawyers said the SEC had conceded during settlement talks that Tesla-related tweets were not subject to a broad pre-approval requirement. They also said the tweet was not material because it simply restated old news, used generalities, was aspirational and optimistic, and did not move Teslas share price. The key question is whether Musk complied with Teslas policy, not whether the SEC is satisfied with Teslas policy, Musks lawyers wrote. Musks belief that the 7:15 tweet did not require pre-approval was correct. Musk has until March 26 to tell U.S. District Judge Alison Nathan whether he wants an evidentiary hearing on the contempt motion. The SEC has said no hearing is necessary. The October settlement required Musk to step down as Teslas chairman. Legal experts said a contempt finding could subject him to higher fine, further restrictions on his activities, or even removal from Teslas board or as chief executive. Tesla shares closed Friday down $9.49, or 3.5 percent, at $264.53. They are 32 percent below their peak set on Aug. 7, after the funding secured tweet. The case is SEC v Musk, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 18-08865. Reuters The European Commission will next week urge EU countries to share more data to tackle cybersecurity risks related to 5G networks but will ignore U.S. calls to ban Huawei Technologies, four people familiar with the matter said on Friday. European digital chief Andrus Ansip will present the recommendation on Tuesday. While the guidance does not have legal force, it will carry political weight which can eventually lead to national legislation in European Union countries. The United States has lobbied Europe to shut out Huawei, saying its equipment could be used by the Chinese government for espionage. Huawei has strongly rejected the allegations and earlier this month sued the U.S. government over the issue. Ansip will tell EU countries to use tools set out under the EU directive on security of network and information systems, or NIS directive, adopted in 2016 and the recently approved Cybersecurity Act, the people said. For example, member states should exchange information and coordinate on impact assessment studies on security risks and on certification for internet-connected devices and 5G equipment. The Commission will not call for a European ban on global market leader Huawei, leaving it to EU countries to decide on national security grounds. It is a recommendation to enhance exchanges on the security assessment of digital critical infrastructure, one of the sources said. The Commission said the recommendation would stress a common EU approach to security risks to 5G networks. The EU executives guidance marks a tougher stance on Chinese investment after years of almost unfettered European openness to China, which controls 70 percent of the global supply of the critical raw materials needed to make high-tech goods. The measures, if taken on board, will be part of what French President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday was a European awakening about potential Chinese dominance, after EU leaders held a first-ever discussion about China policy at a summit. Germany this month set tougher criteria for all telecoms equipment vendors, without singling out Huawei and ignoring U.S. pressure. Big telecoms operators oppose a Huawei ban, saying such a move could set back 5G deployment in the bloc by years. In contrast, Australia and New Zealand have stopped operators using Huawei equipment in their networks. The industry sees 5G as the next money spinner, with its promise to link up everything from vehicles to household devices. Alongside from the Huawei issue, the bloc also plans to discuss Chinese subsidies, state involvement in the Chinese economy and more access to the Chinese market at an EU-China summit on April 9. tech2 News Staff In what could be surprising, HMD Global's Nokia-branded smartphones were spotted sending unencrypted data to China. The information is confirmed by the Finnish data protection watchdog who said that some Nokia phones were sending users data to a Chinese server. The server in question was under the domain named "vnet.cn" which is said to be owned by the state-owned carrier China Telecom. Notably, details about unencrypted data being sent to the server surfaced when a Nokia 7 Plus user named Henrik Austad reported the matter to Norway's public broadcaster NRK. Upon investigation, NRK found that the server was associated with China Telecom and the data was being sent in 'unencrypted format' by a Nokia 7 Plus device. From what's been explained, every time the Nokia 7 Plus units were powered on, data would be transferred immediately over the server. Moreover, turning on the display or even unlocking the device said to have triggered the same process. As per reports, the issue is said to have plagued only a "single batch" of Nokia 7 Plus units. While this certainly concerns Nokia phone users, HMD Global acknowledging about the data breach said that the issue was caused by "an error in the software packaging process in a single batch of one device model". Apparently, the units were initially intended for users in China, but it 'ultimately' rolled out to the European market. The bug is said to have been patched in February and with the issue now raised, reports note that HMD Global has removed the 'infringing files' from the devices. The Finnish smartphone manufacturer responding to the matter told Reuters via mail, "We can confirm that no personally identifiable information has been shared with any third party." But while HMD Global affirm the issue to have been patched, the Finnish watchdog will still investigate to check whether users' personal information was sent. By Jan Wolfe WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The closure of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. By Jan Wolfe WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The closure of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. election does not mark the end of legal worries for President Donald Trump and people close to him. Other ongoing investigations and litigation are focussing on issues including his businesses and financial dealings, personal conduct, charitable foundation and inaugural committee. These investigations, pursued by prosecutors at the federal and state level, could result in charges beyond those brought in Mueller's investigation or civil liability. The special counsel on Friday submitted his confidential report on the investigation to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, who must decide on how much of it to make public. The U.S. Justice Department has a decades-old policy that a sitting president cannot face criminal charges, so such a case against Trump would unlikely while he is in office even if there were evidence of wrongdoing. Some legal experts have argued that the department is wrong and that a president is not immune from prosecution. Either way, Trump potentially could face charges once he is out of office. Here is an explanation of some criminal investigations and civil lawsuits still underway. MUELLER'S CRIMINAL CASES Mueller charged 34 individuals and three companies. Several of those cases resulted in guilty pleas and one case went to trial, with former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort convicted in August 2018 of eight criminal counts including bank fraud and tax fraud. Longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone was indicted in January 2019 and pleaded not guilty but his trial is still pending. There are other cases involving indicted Russians that have not gone to trial. Other prosecutors within the Justice Department will likely take over criminal cases begun by Mueller, legal experts said. BUSINESS PRACTICES AND FINANCIAL DEALINGS Trump may face significant peril from federal prosecutors in Manhattan, according to legal experts. His former personal lawyer Michael Cohen said in Feb. 27 congressional testimony that the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York is examining Trump's business practices and financial dealings. Cohen already has implicated Trump in campaign finance law violations to which he pleaded guilty in August 2018 as part of the Southern District of New York investigation. Cohen admitted he violated campaign finance laws by arranging, at Trump's direction, "hush money" payments shortly before the 2016 presidential election to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels and former Playboy magazine model Karen McDougal to prevent damage to Trump's candidacy. Both women said they had sexual relationships with Trump more than a decade ago. He has denied that. Prosecutors said the payments constituted illegal campaign contributions intended to influence the election. Under federal election laws, such donations cannot exceed $2,700 and need to be publicly disclosed. Daniels received $130,000. McDougal received $150,000. The New York investigation has involved long-time Trump ally David Pecker, the publisher of the National Enquirer tabloid newspaper, who admitted to paying McDougal for the rights to her story and then suppressing it to influence the election, an arrangement called "catch and kill." In his Feb. 27 hearing, Cohen said he was in "constant contact" with Manhattan federal prosecutors and said other crimes and wrongdoing by Trump are being investigated by them, though he did not offer details. Cohen said he could not testify about the nature of his last conversation with Trump in early 2018 because it was under investigation by the federal prosecutors in New York. NEW YORK STATE CHARGES AGAINST MANAFORT The Manhattan district attorney's office is exploring criminal charges against Paul Manafort, President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman, over financial crimes related to unpaid state taxes and possibly loans. In cases bought by Mueller, Manafort in 2018 was convicted of tax fraud, bank fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts in Virginia and pleaded guilty to two conspiracy charges in Washington. He was sentenced to a combined 7-1/2 years in prison in the two cases. Trump has not ruled out granting Manafort a pardon. The president would not be able to pardon Manafort if he is convicted of charges brought by the Manhattan district attorney because they would not be federal crimes. However, New York has broad double jeopardy protections that usually prevent the state from prosecuting a person for crimes arising from the same criminal conduct the federal government has prosecuted before. SUMMER ZERVOS DEFAMATION SUIT A defamation lawsuit against Trump by Summer Zervos, a former contestant on his reality television show "The Apprentice," continues in New York state court after a judge in 2018 allowed it to proceed. Zervos sued Trump after he called her and other women who have accused him of sexual misconduct liars and retweeted a post labelling her claims a hoax. Trump has agreed to provide written answers to questions from Zervos by Sept. 28, according to a court filing. Zervos accused Trump of kissing her against her will at his New York office in 2007 and later groping her at a meeting at a hotel in California. More than a dozen women have accused Trump of making unwanted sexual advances against them years before he entered politics. Marc Kasowitz, a lawyer for Trump, had argued that the lawsuit unconstitutionally impedes the president from performing his duties. An appeals court rejected that argument on March 14 by a 3-2 vote. Kasowitz said he would appeal the decision to the state's highest court. Separately, two lawsuits against Trump brought by adult film star Stormy Daniels were dismissed. THE TRUMP FOUNDATION A lawsuit filed by the New York state Attorney General's Office already led the Donald J. Trump Foundation, which was presented as the charitable arm of Trump's business empire, to agree in December 2018 to dissolve, and the litigation continues. The state is seeking an order banning Trump and his three eldest children from leadership roles in any other New York charity. Trump has said the lawsuit was concocted by "sleazy New York Democrats." The state's Democratic attorney general accused the foundation of being "engaged in a "shocking pattern of illegality" and "functioning as little more than a checkbook to serve Mr. Trump's business and political interests" in violation of federal law. The attorney general's office alleged Trump and his family members used the charity to pay off his legal debts and purchase personal items. The foundation agreed to dissolve and give away all its remaining assets under court supervision. "EMOLUMENTS" LAWSUIT Trump is accused in a lawsuit filed by the Democratic attorneys general of Maryland and the District of Columbia of violating anti-corruption provisions of the U.S. Constitution through his businesses' dealings with foreign governments. The Richmond, Virginia-based 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will hear arguments on March 19 in the Trump administration's appeal of U.S. District Judge Peter Messitte's 2018 rulings allowing the case to proceed. The Constitution's "emoluments clauses" bars U.S. officials from accepting payments from foreign governments and the governments of U.S. states without congressional approval. The lawsuit stated that because Trump did not divested himself of his business empire, spending by foreign governments at the Trump International Hotel in Washington amounts to unconstitutional gifts, or "emoluments," to the president. TRUMP INAUGURAL COMMITTEE Federal prosecutors in New York are investigating whether the committee that organised Trump's inauguration in January 2017 accepted illegal donations from foreigners, misused funds or brokered special access to the administration for donors. Federal election law prohibits foreigners from donating to U.S. political campaigns or inaugural committees, and corruption laws ban donors from making contributions in exchange for political favours. Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani said in December 2018 that the president was not involved in his inaugural committee. The $107 million raised by the committee, which was chaired by real estate developer and investor Thomas Barrack, was the largest in history, according to U.S. Federal Election Commission filings. IMPEACHMENT Under the U.S. Constitution, the president, vice president and "all civil officers of the United States" can be removed from office by Congress through the impeachment process for "treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanours." The House of Representatives acts as the accuser - voting on whether to bring specific charges such as obstruction of justice - and the Senate then conducts a trial with House members acting as prosecutors and the individual senators serving as jurors. A simple majority vote is needed in the House to impeach. A two-thirds majority is required in the Senate to convict and remove. (Reporting by Jan Wolfe; Editing by Bill Trott) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. election has ensnared dozens of people, including several advisers to President Donald Trump and a series of Russian nationals and companies (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. election has ensnared dozens of people, including several advisers to President Donald Trump and a series of Russian nationals and companies. Rod Rosenstein, the No. 2 U.S. Justice Department official, in May 2017 appointed Mueller to look into Russian interference, whether members of Trump's campaign coordinated with Moscow officials and whether the Republican president has unlawfully sought to obstruct the probe. Mueller has charged 34 people and three companies. Trump denies collusion and obstruction. Russia denies election interference. Mueller has handed in a report on his investigation, the Department of Justice said on Friday. The following are those who have pleaded guilty or have been indicted in Mueller's inquiry. (Graphic: https://tmsnrt.rs/2RwJarW) PAUL MANAFORT Manafort, Trump's former campaign chairman, guilty of five counts of tax fraud, was sentenced to a combined 7-1/2 years in prison in two cases brought by Mueller in which he was convicted by a jury in Virginia in August 2018 and pleaded guilty a month later in Washington. In Virginia, he was found guilty of five counts of tax fraud, two counts of bank fraud and one count of failing to disclose foreign bank accounts. Manafort, who prosecutors said tried to conceal from the U.S. government millions of dollars he was paid as a political consultant for pro-Russian Ukrainian politicians, pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy in a separate case in Washington and agreed to cooperate with Mueller. The Washington case had focussed on accusations of money laundering and failing to report foreign bank accounts, among other charges. A judge on Feb. 13 ruled that Manafort had breached his agreement to cooperate with Mueller by lying to prosecutors about three matters pertinent to the Russia probe including his interactions with a business partner, Konstantin Kilimnik, who they have said has ties to Russian intelligence. MICHAEL COHEN Cohen, Trump's former personal lawyer, pleaded guilty in August 2018 to crimes including orchestrating "hush money" payments before the 2016 election to women who have said they had sexual encounters with Trump, violating campaign laws. That case was handled by federal prosecutors in New York, not Mueller's office. As part of a separate agreement with Mueller's team, Cohen pleaded guilty in November 2018 to lying to Congress about negotiations concerning a proposed Trump Tower in Moscow, a project that never materialized. Cohen is due to report to prison on May 6 to begin serving a three-year prison sentence. Cohen in February 2019 testified at a public hearing before a House of Representatives committee. He accused Trump of approving the "hush money" payments and knowing in advance about the 2016 release by the WikiLeaks website of emails that prosecutors have said were stolen by Russia to harm Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's presidential bid. He said Trump implicitly directed him to lie about the Moscow real estate project. He promised to keep cooperating with prosecutors and made multiple closed-door appearances before congressional panels. MICHAEL FLYNN Flynn, Trump's national security adviser for less than a month in early 2017, pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying to the FBI about his contacts with Russia during Trump's presidential transition and agreed to cooperate with Mueller. Trump fired him as national security adviser after it emerged that Flynn had misled Vice President Mike Pence and the FBI about his dealings with the then-Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergey Kislyak. His sentencing is pending. ROGER STONE The longtime Trump ally and presidential campaign adviser was charged in January 2019 with seven criminal counts including obstruction of an official proceeding, witness tampering and making false statements, pleading not guilty. His trial date has been set for Nov. 5. Prosecutors said Stone shared with members of the Trump campaign team advance knowledge of the plan by WikiLeaks to release the stolen Democratic emails. Prosecutors also accused him of trying to interfere with a witness, a radio host who matched the profile of Randy Credico. RICK GATES The former deputy chairman of Trump's campaign, Gates pleaded guilty in February 2018 to conspiracy against the United States and lying to investigators. He agreed to cooperate with Mueller and testified as a prosecution witness against Manafort, his former business partner. His sentencing is pending. KONSTANTIN KILIMNIK A Manafort aide in Ukraine and a political operative described by prosecutors as linked to Russian intelligence, Kilimnik was charged in June 2018 with tampering with witnesses about their past lobbying for Ukraine's former pro-Russian government. Prosecutors said in January 2019 that Manafort shared political polling data with Kilimnik in 2016, providing an indication that Trump's campaign may have tried to coordinate with Russians. TWELVE RUSSIAN INTELLIGENCE OFFICERS Twelve Russian intelligence officers were indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2018, accused of hacking the Clinton campaign and Democratic Party organizations as part of a Russian scheme to release emails damaging to Clinton during the 2016 race. They covertly monitored employee computers and planted malicious code, as well as stealing emails and other documents, according to the indictment. THIRTEEN RUSSIAN NATIONALS, THREE COMPANIES Thirteen Russians and three Russian companies were indicted in Mueller's investigation in February 2018, accused of taking part in an elaborate campaign to sow discord in the United States ahead of the 2016 election and harm Clinton's candidacy in order to boost Trump. The companies included: the Internet Research Agency, a St. Petersburg-based propaganda arm known for trolling on social media; Concord Management and Consulting; and Concord Catering. GEORGE PAPADOPOULOS The former Trump campaign adviser was sentenced in September 2018 to 14 days in prison after pleading guilty in October 2017 to lying to the FBI about his contacts with Russian officials, including a professor who told him the Russians had "dirt" on Clinton. ALEX VAN DER ZWAAN A lawyer who once worked closely with Manafort and Gates, Van Der Zwaan pleaded guilty in February 2018 to lying to Mueller's investigators about contacts with a Trump campaign official. Van Der Zwaan, the Dutch son-in-law of one of Russia's richest men, was sentenced in April 2018 to 30 days in prison and fined $20,000. RICHARD PINEDO Pinedo was not involved with the Trump campaign, but in February 2018 pleaded guilty to identity fraud in a case related to the Mueller investigation for helping Russian conspirators launder money, purchase Facebook ads and pay for supplies. He was sentenced in October 2018 to six months in jail and six months of home detention. (Compiled by Susan Heavey, Sarah N. Lynch, Jan Wolfe; Editing by Will Dunham and Grant McCool) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. By Andy Sullivan (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller and other U.S. prosecutors have been investigating whether President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign conspired with Russia By Andy Sullivan (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller and other U.S. prosecutors have been investigating whether President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign conspired with Russia. Trump and Moscow have denied any collusion. Mueller handed in the keenly awaited report on his probe, the Justice Department said on Friday. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded Russia interfered in the presidential election with a campaign of hacking and propaganda to sow discord in the United States and damage the Republican Trump's Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton. Russia denies it. Here are some key interactions between Trump advisors and Russian figures that have been unearthed by Mueller's probe and investigations in Congress. TRUMP TOWER MEETING Several top Trump aides, including campaign chairman Paul Manafort, son-in-law Jared Kushner and son Donald Trump Jr., met in June 2016 at Trump Tower in New York with a Russian lawyer who had offered damaging information about Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. U.S. prosecutors said the lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, was an agent for the Kremlin. The meeting was arranged by Rob Goldstone, a British music publicist. Participants in the meeting said nothing improper occurred and that Veselnitskaya discussed U.S. sanctions on Russia and adoption policy, not election issues. The president said he did not know about the meeting beforehand. EFFORTS TO BUILD A SKYSCRAPER IN MOSCOW Trump's former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, said he pursued a deal to build a Trump-branded skyscraper in Moscow until June 2016, after Trump had clinched the Republican presidential nomination. Cohen said in a guilty plea that he spoke with an assistant to Russian President Vladimir Putin's press secretary in January of that year and briefed Trump on the project more than three times. Trump's lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, said the Moscow skyscraper talks continued until Trump won the November 2016 election but later said he misspoke. Trump, who repeatedly said during the campaign that he had no contacts with Russia, said after Cohen's guilty plea in November 2018 there was nothing wrong with pursuing the deal. EFFORTS TO SET UP A MEETING WITH RUSSIAN LEADERS Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos worked between March 2016 and August 2016 to set up a meeting with Russian leadership, according to prosecutors. They said a London-based professor with ties to the Russian government told him in April 2016 that Moscow had compromising information on Clinton. Papadopoulos served 14 days in prison after pleading guilty to lying to the FBI about those efforts. MANAFORT OFFERS CAMPAIGN INSIGHTS Manafort shared election campaign polling data in August 2016 with Konstantin Kilimnik, a former business partner who Mueller has described as having ties to Russian intelligence, according to a court filing inadvertently made public by Manafort's lawyers. The two also discussed a plan to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, a major Kremlin foreign policy goal as it seeks relief from U.S. economic sanctions, according to court filings. Manafort, a veteran Republican political consultant who earned million of dollars working for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine, also offered private briefings about the campaign to Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska, who is close to Putin, in an effort to collect past debts, according to the Washington Post. ROGER STONE AND WIKILEAKS Roger Stone, a veteran Republican political consultant who has worked on and off with Trump for decades, shared with Trump campaign officials advance knowledge he had of a plan by the WikiLeaks website to release emails stolen from the Clinton campaign by Russians, prosecutors said. The charging document mentions that a senior Trump campaign official "was directed to contact Stone about any additional releases and what other damaging information" WikiLeaks had about the Clinton campaign, raising the possibility Trump himself made the request. Stone pleaded not guilty to lying to Congress and witness tampering. MEETINGS WITH RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR SERGEI KISLYAK Several Trump advisers met with Russia's ambassador to the United States, Sergei Kislyak, before Trump became president. They included: Michael Flynn, who served as Trump's first White House national security advisor. Flynn has pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about his communications with Kislyak in December 2017, after Trump won the election but before he took office. During those calls, according to the indictment, Flynn discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia and asked Kislyak to help delay a U.N. vote seen as damaging to Israel, a move that ran counter to the policies of then-President Barack Obama, a Democrat. Jeff Sessions, a Republican U.S. senator serving as a campaign adviser who Trump later named attorney general, said he met with Kislyak at least twice in 2016 after initially telling Congress he was unaware of any communications between the campaign and Russia. As attorney general, Sessions recused himself from oversight of the Russia investigation, drawing the ire of Trump. The recusal by Sessions left Rod Rosenstein, the No. 2 Justice Department official, with oversight over the probe, which at the time was headed by the FBI. After Trump fired FBI Director James Comey in May 2017, Rosenstein appointed Mueller as special counsel to take over the probe. Kushner said he asked Kislyak if he could set up a secure communications channel at the Russian Embassy after Trump won the election. Kushner also said he met with Sergei Gorkov, the head of Russian state-owned bank, Vnesheconombank, during that period at Kislyak's insistence. Vnesheconombank has been subject to U.S. economic sanctions since mid-2014. (Compiled by Andy Sullivan; Editing by Will Dunham) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. GAZA (Reuters) - Israeli forces killed two Palestinian men on Friday and wounded 55 others taking part in weekly protests along the fortified Israel-Gaza border, the Palestinian health ministry said. Medical officials said two men aged 29 and 24 were killed by Israeli fire at two sites in central Gaza. GAZA (Reuters) - Israeli forces killed two Palestinian men on Friday and wounded 55 others taking part in weekly protests along the fortified Israel-Gaza border, the Palestinian health ministry said. Medical officials said two men aged 29 and 24 were killed by Israeli fire at two sites in central Gaza. Earlier health officials gave the age of one of the dead as 18. The Israeli military said its forces faced around 9,500 demonstrators, some hurling rocks and rolling burning tyres. A military spokeswoman said troops had responded with "riot dispersal means" and fired according to standard operating procedures. The Islamic Jihad militant group said in a statement one of the two dead men was a member of its armed wing. He was taking part as a civilian and not as a combatant, an Islamic Jihad official told Reuters. Gaza medical officials say around 200 people have been killed since Palestinians launched the weekly border protests on March 30 last year, demanding the right to return to land from which their ancestors fled or were forced to flee during Israels founding in 1948. About 60 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in other incidents over the same period, including exchanges of fire across the border. One Israeli soldier was shot dead by a Palestinian sniper along the frontier and another was killed during a botched undercover raid into Gaza. In Gaza, Ismail Haniyeh, chief of the Islamist group Hamas which runs the enclave, urged Palestinians to attend mass rallies on Saturday to mark one year since protests began. "We will not retreat and whoever thinks that we may retreat a single step backward before achieving our goals is wrong," said Haniyeh as he arrived at a site of the protests near the border with Israel. (Reporting by Nidal Almughrabi; Editing by Janet Lawrence and Frances Kerry) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. By Stephen Farrell and Jeffrey Heller JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday he would sue two of his main political rivals for libel, claiming that they labelled him a traitor over a graft scandal involving a German submarine deal. In a video published on his Facebook page, Netanyahu said he instructed his attorneys to take legal action against former armed forces chief Benny Gantz and ex-defence minister Moshe 'Bogie' Yaalon. By Stephen Farrell and Jeffrey Heller JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday he would sue two of his main political rivals for libel, claiming that they labelled him a traitor over a graft scandal involving a German submarine deal. In a video published on his Facebook page, Netanyahu said he instructed his attorneys to take legal action against former armed forces chief Benny Gantz and ex-defence minister Moshe "Bogie" Yaalon. Both are from the centrist Blue and White party which is seeking to unseat the veteran prime minister in an April 9 election. Opinion polls put Netanyahus right-wing Likud and Gantzs new party neck-and-neck. In the video, Netanyahu said that through their "labeling of me as a traitor" Gantz, Yaalon and their party colleague Yair Lapid - who cannot be sued because he is a legislator - had committed "a blood libel that must not be ignored". Netanyahu's lawyer and other suspects have been the focus of a long-running police investigation into the sale of German submarines to Israel, amid concerns about a conflict of interest. Netanyahu was questioned by police in the investigation but investigators said last year that the prime minister was not a suspect. He issued the video in apparent response to comments Yaalon made on Israel Radio about the submarines case two days ago. Gantz, who has promised to pursue clean government, has sought to undermine Netanyahu by focussing public attention on the state's decision not to deem the prime minister a suspect in the submarine case. In a video statement in response, Lapid said Netanyahu's video was full of lies and that neither he nor his colleagues had called the prime minister a traitor. He said he was willing to forgo his parliamentary immunity to prove it, adding: "Sue me." Officials in the Blue and White party said Gantz was unavailable for comment on Friday because he was on his way to the United States. Asked about Yaalon's response, the party referred to Lapid's video statement. IRAN HACKING ALLEGATION For his part, Netanyahu has put Iran's alleged hacking of Gantz's cellphone at the forefront of his election campaign, repeating in his video on Friday - without presenting any evidence - an allegation that it contained information Tehran could use to blackmail the former general. Iran has denied targeting Gantz. Gantz has said he had been informed by Israel's domestic security service of a breach but there was no sensitive information on the device. Last month Israeli Attorney-General Avichai Mandelblit said he intends to indict Netanyahu in three cases on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, pending the outcome of a pre-trial hearing that will take place after the election. Netanyahu denies all wrongdoing, and has consistently accused his opponents of carrying out a politically motivated "witch-hunt". The prime minister's broadside against his strongest election opponents came a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced his support for Israel's claim of sovereignty over the Golan Heights, in what was widely seen in Israel as a boost for Netanyahu. The prime minister will fly to Washington next week to meet Trump at the White House and address the pro-Israeli lobbying group, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, or AIPAC. Gantz is also due to address AIPAC. (Additional reporting by Rami Ayyub in Nazareth; Editing by Gareth Jones and Frances Kerry) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Saturdays signing ceremony was the highlight of a three-day trip to Italy by Chinese President Xi Jinping, with the two nations boosting their ties. Rome: Italy endorsed Chinas ambitious Belt and Road infrastructure plan on Saturday, becoming the first major Western power to back the initiative to help revive the struggling Italian economy. Saturdays signing ceremony was the highlight of a three-day trip to Italy by Chinese President Xi Jinping, with the two nations boosting their ties at a time when the United States is locked in a trade war with China. The rapprochement has angered Washington and alarmed some European Union allies, who fear it could see Beijing gain access to sensitive technologies and critical transport hubs. Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio played down such concerns, telling reporters that although Rome remained fully committed to its Western partners, it had to put Italy first when it came to commercial ties. This is a very important day for us, a day when Made-in-Italy has won, Italy has won and Italian companies have won, said Di Maio, who signed the memorandum of understanding on behalf of the Italian government in a Renaissance villa. Taking advantage of Xis visit, Italian firms inked deals with Chinese counterparts worth an initial 2.5 billion euros ($2.8 billion). Di Maio said these contracts had a potential, future value of 20 billion euros. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) lies at the heart of Chinas foreign policy strategy and was incorporated into the ruling Communist Party constitution in 2017, reflecting Xis desire for his country to take a global leadership role. The United States worries that it is designed to strengthen Chinas military influence and could be used to spread technologies capable of spying on Western interests. Warm welcome Italys populist government, anxious to lift the economy out of its third recession in a decade, dismissed calls from Washington to shun the BRI and gave Xi the sort of red-carpet welcome normally reserved for its closest allies. Some EU leaders also cautioned Italy this week against rushing into the arms of China, with French President Emmanuel Macron saying on Friday that relations with Beijing must not be based primarily on trade. There was not even universal backing for the BRI agreement within Italys ruling coalition, with Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, who heads the far-right League, warning against the risk of China colonialising Italian markets. Salvini did not meet Xi and declined to attend a state dinner held in honour of the visiting leader on Friday. Di Maio, who leads the 5-Star Movement, says Italy is merely playing catch up, pointing to the fact that it exports significantly less to China than either Germany or France. Italy registered a trade deficit with China of 17.6 billion euros last year and Di Maio said the aim was to eliminate the deficit as soon as possible. After talks with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and Di Maio in the morning, Xi flew to the Sicilian city Palermo for a private visit on Saturday afternoon. He is due to head to Monte Carlo on Sunday before finishing his brief tour of Europe in France, where he is due to hold talks with Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Ruler of the Emirate of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, tweeted an image of the Burj Khalifa, with a message of thanks to PM Jacinda Ardern and one of solidarity with New Zealand. An image of New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern hugging a woman in the wake of the attacks on two mosques in Christchurch was projected onto the world's tallest building, Dubai's Burj Khalifa, on Friday evening. Ardern's response to the terror attack targeting Muslims has been widely appreciated. Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of the Emirate of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum tweeted an image of the lit tower, with a message of solidarity. "New Zealand today fell silent in honour of the mosque attacks' martyrs. Thank you Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world," Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum tweeted. Minutes after news of the Christchurch attack broke on 15 March, Ardern had announced that New Zealand would support all Muslims in the country, who make up less than 1 percent of the population. Most victims of New Zealand's worst mass shooting were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. "They are us," she had said while referring to the victims of the Christchurch terror attack. She also wore a headscarf on her first visit to the city after the attack. A week later, Ardern led an estimated 5,000 people in a prayer at Hagley Park in front of the Al Noor mosque, where most of the victims died. "New Zealand mourns with you. We are one," she said in a short speech, followed by two minutes of silence. With inputs from agencies By Sarah N. Lynch WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by U.S By Sarah N. Lynch WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by U.S. President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document's quick release. Marking the end of his nearly two-year investigation that ensnared former Trump aides and Russian intelligence officers and cast a cloud over the Republican businessman's presidency, Mueller submitted the report to Attorney General William Barr, the top U.S. law enforcement official, the department said. It was not known if Mueller found criminal conduct by Trump or his campaign, beyond the charges already levelled against several aides. In all, Mueller brought charges against 34 people and three companies. The report was submitted without the announcement of any further criminal charges. Mueller, a former FBI director, had been examining since May 2017 whether Trump's campaign conspired with Moscow to try to influence the election and whether the Republican president later unlawfully tried to obstruct his investigation. Trump has denied collusion and obstruction. Russia has denied election interference. The report was not immediately made public. Barr, who was appointed by Trump, will have to decide how much of it to disclose. Barr told lawmakers in a letter he may be able to provide information to Congress on Mueller's findings as soon as this weekend, adding, "I remain committed to as much transparency as possible." The big question now is whether the report contains allegations of wrongdoing by Trump himself. Trump has sought to discredit the investigation, calling it a "witch hunt" and accusing Mueller of conflicts of interest. Key aides of Trump, including his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, national security adviser Michael Flynn and personal lawyer Michael Cohen, have already either been convicted or pleaded guilty to charges brought by Mueller. Lawmakers from both parties called for prompt release of the report to key congressional committees and to the American public. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer - the two top Democrats in Congress - said it was "imperative" the full report be made public, that Barr not give Trump and his team a "sneak preview" of the findings and that the White House not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts are made public. They said the investigation focussed on questions that "go to the integrity of our democracy itself: whether foreign powers corruptly interfered in our elections, and whether unlawful means were used to hinder that investigation." "The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency," they said in a joint statement. "I fully expect the Justice Department to release the special counsels report to this committee and to the public without delay and to the maximum extent permitted by law," said Doug Collins, the senior Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, in a statement. Under the regulations governing special counsel investigations, the attorney general must share an outline of Mueller's report with Democratic and Republican leaders of the judiciary committees in Congress but it is largely up to him what to make public. WHITE HOUSE REACTION "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsel's report," White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said. Mueller did not recommend any further indictments, a senior Justice Department official said, in a sign that there might be no more criminal charges against Trump associates arising from Mueller's investigation. But it was not immediately clear whether the special counsel had sealed indictments that can be later disclosed. When the Justice Department announced the arrival of Mueller's report, Trump was at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where he met on Friday with a group of Caribbean leaders. Staff at the private club were setting up for a Lincoln Day dinner fundraiser for a local branch of the Republican Party. Programs for the event featured an image of a $5 bill with President Lincoln sporting a red Trump campaign hat with the slogan "Keep America Great" on it. Donald Trump Jr., the president's eldest son, posted a picture on Twitter of his family on a fishing trip. "Great day on the water with my little men for their spring break," he wrote. Even if the Mueller report exonerates Trump, that may not spell the end to his legal troubles. Cohen pleaded guilty in August to campaign finance violations in a case overseen by federal prosecutors in Manhattan, who said in court filings that Cohen carried out the crimes at the direction of Trump. The U.S. Attorney's office in Manhattan is also looking at the spending of Trump's inaugural committee and business practices at the Trump Organization, the family's real estate firm. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that Moscow meddled in the election with a campaign of email hacking and online propaganda aimed at sowing discord in the United States, hurting Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and helping Trump. Mueller's investigators have looked into a large number of contacts between people associated with Trump's campaign and Russia such as a meeting in New York's Trump Tower between members of the president's inner circle including his eldest son and a Kremlin-linked Russian lawyer five months before the election. Mueller sought to determine whether the campaign coordinated with Moscow, though it was not immediately clear whether the special counsel found evidence of a conspiracy. QUESTIONS ABOUT OBSTRUCTION Mueller also examined whether Trump committed obstruction of justice by trying to hinder the investigation, looking into acts such as urging FBI Director James Comey to drop a probe of Flynn's contacts with Russia, the subsequent firing of Comey, his attacks on the special counsel, dangling of pardons for former aides and the ouster of former Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including Russian intelligence officers, and three Russian companies, including one described as a "troll farm." Mueller's team already has signalled the direction of the investigation through indictments and hundreds of related court filings that have offered extensive details about Russian interference in the election. Trump fired Flynn in February 2017 after it emerged that he had misled Vice President Mike Pence and the FBI about his dealings with the then-Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergey Kislyak. In May 2017, he ousted Comey, whose agency had been leading the Russia investigation. Comey's firing led the Justice Department to appoint Mueller to take over the probe. Congressional Democrats, who took over control of the U.S. House of Representatives in January, have said they plan to push for a release of the full Mueller report and said they would subpoena it and file suit if necessary. A small number of House Democrats have pushed for Congress to impeach Trump and remove him from office but the party's leadership including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has urged caution. No president has every been removed from office via impeachment. Several House committees in the meantime are conducting aggressive investigations of Trump and people around him. The last president to be impeached by the House, Democrat Bill Clinton, was acquitted by the Senate in 1999 on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice, meaning he was not removed from office. In prosecuting Manafort, Mueller showed how the former campaign chairman made millions of dollars working for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine, while also exposing his ties to a consultant who the special counsel said was connected to Russian intelligence. Manafort in the two cases prosecuted by Mueller's team was sentenced to 7-1/2 years in prison. The special counsel's case against Cohen revealed that Trump was negotiating to build a skyscraper in Moscow late into the 2016 campaign, contradicting statements from Trump at the time that he had nothing to do with the Russians. The special counsel also indicted longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone, a Republican operative and a self-proclaimed political "dirty trickster." Stone is accused of telling members of Trump's campaign that he knew in advance of plans by the WikiLeaks website to release emails damaging to Clinton that were stolen by Russia. (Additional reporting by Karen Freifeld and Steve Holland in Washington, Nathan Layne in New York and Roberta Rampton in Florida; Writing by Alistair Bell; Editing by Will Dunham) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. It would be a 'mistake' for India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition and its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness, President Arif Alvi said on Saturday as Islamabad displayed its military might on the National Day. Islamabad: It would be a "mistake" for India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition and its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness, President Arif Alvi said on Saturday as Islamabad displayed its military might on the National Day. Alvi was addressing the annual Pakistan Day Parade to commemorate the resolution passed by the All-India Muslim League on the day in 1940 in Lahore demanding a separate country for Muslims. The National Day featured a joint parade by the army, air force and navy, and display of military hardware. "It was the duty and responsibility of Pakistan to respond to the Indian aggression... We responded with better strategy," Alvi said, apparently referring to the downing of an Indian Air Force jet. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in 14 February. India launched a counter-terror operation against a JeM training camp in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on 1 March. Alvi said India's actions jeopardised peace in the region. "It would a mistake on part of India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition. Doing so would be very dangerous for the region's stability. "India will have to accept Pakistan as a reality, and it must come to the conclusion that dialogue is the only way to resolve issues," Alvi said at the ceremony where Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad was the guest of honour. He said Pakistan wants peaceful co-existence but its "desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness". "We are a peaceful nation, but are not oblivious to our defence, and the same has been proved in the recent demonstration of Pakistan's defence capability," he said, adding that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and respects integrity and sovereignty of other states. Alvi said the country is safe and moving on the path of progress and development after effectively combating the menace of terrorism. The president also inspected the parade before his address. Prime Minister Imran Khan, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mehmood Hayat, army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, naval chief Admiral Zafar Mehmood Abbasi and Chief of Air Staff Mujahid Anwar Khan attended the ceremony. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Contingents, paratroopers and fighter jets from Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, China, Bahrain and Sri Lanka also took part in the parade. Shahper and Buraq drones were also displayed in the parade along with different missile systems including Nasr, Babur, Shaheen 1, Ghuri, Shaheen 111 among others, and defence systems as well as tanks. The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were also offered in mosques after morning prayers for the country's progress and prosperity. Special counsel Robert Mueller on Friday turned over his long-awaited final report on the contentious Russia investigation that has cast a dark shadow over Donald Trump's presidency, entangled Trump's family and resulted in criminal charges against some of the president's closest associates. Washington: Special counsel Robert Mueller on Friday turned over his long-awaited final report on the contentious Russia investigation that has cast a dark shadow over Donald Trump's presidency, entangled Trump's family and resulted in criminal charges against some of the president's closest associates. The comprehensive report, still confidential, marks the end of Mueller's probe but sets the stage for big public fights to come. The next steps are up to Trump's attorney general, to Congress and, in all likelihood, federal courts. The Justice Department said the report was delivered by a security officer Friday afternoon to the office of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, and then it went to Attorney General William Barr. Word of the delivery triggered reactions across Washington, including Democrats' demands that it be released publicly before long and Republicans' contentions that it ended two years of wasted time and money. Barr released a letter noting his plans to write his own account of Mueller's findings. The White House released a statement saying it had not seen or been briefed on the special counsel's document. What happens next is "up to Attorney General Barr," said White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. Barr said he could send his account to Congress quickly. "I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend," Barr said in his letter the top Republicans and Democrats on the House and Senate Judiciary committees. He pledged a commitment to transparency. The attorney general said the Justice Department had not denied any request from the special counsel, something Barr would have been required to disclose to Congress to ensure there was no political inference in the independent probe. With no details released at this point, it's not known whether Mueller's report answers the core questions of his investigation: Did Trump's campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favor of the celebrity businessman? Also, did Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? But the delivery of the report does mean the investigation has concluded without any public charges of a criminal conspiracy between the campaign and Russia, or of obstruction by the president. Mueller is not recommending any further indictments in the Russia probe, a Justice Department official confirmed Friday. That person, who described the document as "comprehensive," was not authorized to discuss the probe and asked for anonymity. It's unclear what steps Mueller will take if he uncovered what he believes to be criminal wrongdoing by Trump, in light of Justice Department legal opinions that have held that sitting presidents may not be indicted. The mere delivery of a confidential report set off immediate demands from Democrats for full release of Mueller's findings. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer declared it "imperative" to make the full report public. The top congressional Democrats said, "The American people have a right to the truth." Democrats also expressed concern that Trump would try to get a "sneak preview" of the findings. "The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public," they said in a joint statement. Barr has said he wants to make as much public as possible, and any efforts to withhold details will prompt a tussle between the Justice Department and lawmakers who may subpoena Mueller and his investigators to testify before Congress. Such a move by Democrats would likely be vigorously contested by the Trump administration. The conclusion of Mueller's investigation does not remove legal peril for the president. Trump faces a separate Justice Department investigation in New York into hush money payments during the campaign to two women who say they had sex with him years before the election. He's also been implicated in a potential campaign finance violation by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who says Trump asked him to arrange the transactions. Federal prosecutors, also in New York, have been investigating foreign contributions made to the president's inaugural committee. No matter the findings in Mueller's report, the investigation has already illuminated Russia's assault on the American political system, painted the Trump campaign as eager to exploit the release of hacked Democratic emails and exposed lies by Trump aides aimed at covering up their Russia-related contacts. Over the 21-month investigation, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including six aides and advisers to the president, and three companies. The special counsel brought a sweeping indictment accusing Russian military intelligence officers of hacking Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign and other Democratic groups during the 2016 election. He charged another group of Russians with carrying out a large-scale social media disinformation campaign against the American political process that also sought to help Trump and hurt Clinton. Closer to the president, Mueller secured convictions against a campaign chairman who cheated banks and dodged his taxes, a national security adviser who lied about his Russian contacts and a campaign aide who misled the FBI about his knowledge of stolen emails. Cohen, the president's former lawyer, pleaded guilty in New York to campaign finance violations arising from the hush money payments and in the Mueller probe to lying to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. Another Trump confidant, Roger Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied about his pursuit of Russian-hacked emails ultimately released by WikiLeaks. It's unclear whether any of the aides who have been convicted, all of whom have pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigators, might angle for a pardon. Trump has left open the idea of pardons. Along the way, Trump lawyers and advisers repeatedly evolved their public defenses to deal with the onslaught of allegations from the investigation. Where once Trump and his aides had maintained that there were no connections between the campaign and Russia, by the end of the probe Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani was routinely making the argument that even if the two sides did collude, it wasn't necessarily a crime. The goalpost shifting reflected the administration's challenge in adopting a singular narrative to fend off allegations. Equally central to Mueller's work is his inquiry into whether the president tried to obstruct the investigation. Since the special counsel's appointment in May 2017, Trump has increasingly tried to undermine the probe by calling it a "witch hunt" and repeatedly proclaiming there was "NO COLLUSION" with Russia. But Trump also took certain acts as president that caught Mueller's attention and have been scrutinized for possible obstruction. One week before Mueller's appointment, Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, later saying he was thinking of "this Russia thing" at the time. He mercilessly harangued Attorney General Jeff Sessions for recusing from the Russia investigation two months before Mueller was named special counsel, a move that left the president without a perceived loyalist atop the probe. And he helped draft a misleading statement on Air Force One as a Trump Tower meeting between his eldest son and a Kremlin-connected lawyer was about to become public. The meeting itself became part of Mueller's investigation, entangling Donald Trump Jr. in the probe. Mueller's team also interviewed the president's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, multiple times. Even as Trump blasted Mueller's team, his White House and campaign produced thousands of documents for the special counsel, and dozens of his aides were interviewed. The president submitted written answers to Mueller regarding the Russia investigation, but he refused to be interviewed PALM BEACH, Fl./BAGHOUZ, Syria (Reuters) - Islamic State militants in eastern Syria still held out late on Friday, the U.S.-backed militia besieging them said, after U.S. President Donald Trump said the jihadist group had lost its last scrap of territory PALM BEACH, Fl./BAGHOUZ, Syria (Reuters) - Islamic State militants in eastern Syria still held out late on Friday, the U.S.-backed militia besieging them said, after U.S. President Donald Trump said the jihadist group had lost its last scrap of territory. "Heavy fighting continues around mount Baghouz right now to finish off whatever remains of ISIS (Islamic State)," said Mustafa Bali, head of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) media office on Twitter. Trump showed a before-and-after map to reporters to demonstrate the extent of jihadist losses during his presidency. He has said several times in recent weeks that Islamic State had lost all its land even though fierce battles persisted. Two hours before Trump gave a statement declaring the group's territorial rule over, a Reuters journalist heard two air strikes and saw smoke at Baghouz, where Islamic State fighters have been waging a last stand. Islamic State's loss of Baghouz ends its grip over populated territory in the third of Iraq and Syria it once ruled, but the group remains a threat with fighters operating in cities and remote areas elsewhere and able to mount insurgent attacks. A U.S.-led coalition has helped the SDF drive Islamic State from swathes of northeastern Syria and down the Euphrates since 2015 with air strikes and special forces assistance. An array of local and international forces - some of them sworn enemies of each other - have conducted different campaigns against Islamic State during that period, inflicting major defeats on it in 2017 with the capture of Mosul and Raqqa. The Syrian Ambassador to the U.N. Bashar Ja'afari told reporters that Islamic State was not yet finished in Syria, but that it was the Damascus government backed by Russia and Iran that was genuinely battling it, not the United States. Some Islamic State fighters remain holed up in the central Syrian desert, an area entirely surrounded by the Syrian army. JIHADIST MAP "Here's ISIS on Election Day. And here's ISIS right now," Trump said, using the acronym for the group, as he displayed the map with the 'before' portion full of red dots and the after map empty. "You guys can have the map. Congratulations," Trump said. "I think it's about time." The president has previously displayed a map illustrating the diminution of Islamic State. Although he said the "before" map showed Islamic State's presence at his election in 2016, the version given to reporters showed it was dated 2014, when the group's territorial control was at its peak. U.S.-backed forces in Syria and Iraq captured extensive stretches of that territory before Trump's election. The SDF has been battling for weeks to defeat Islamic State in Baghouz on the Euphrates riverside at the Iraqi border. This week it announced it had captured a jihadist encampment that represented most of the remaining enclave. The last small groups of jihadist fighters had been pushed onto a sliver of the riverbank and the cliffs nearby said the SDF, which holds the area at the top of the cliffs. Bali told Reuters earlier on Friday that SDF fighters had clashed overnight with militants in more than two positions where they were refusing to surrender. The jihadists were holed up in what appeared to be caves in a rocky shelf overlooking Baghouz and in trenches by the river, he said. "Our forces are trying to force them to surrender, but so far the clashes are continuing." Over the past two months, more than 60,000 people have flooded out of the dwindling pocket on the Euphrates around Baghouz, about half of them civilians including some Islamic State captives, the SDF has said. Of the rest, about 5,000 were surrendering jihadist fighters. The others were supporters or family members of the group. The fighters who refused to surrender to the end were mostly foreigners, the SDF has said. The SDF transported most people who left Baghouz to displacement camps in northeast Syria where aid agencies have warned of dire humanitarian conditions. The number of people inside the enclave when the assault on it began in January was unexpectedly large, adding to the difficulties at the displacement camps and repeatedly delaying a final offensive. (Reporting by Rodi Said in Qamishli, a Reuters journalist in Baghouz, Roberta Rampton in Palm Springs, Idrees Ali in Washington and Michelle Nichols at the United Nations; Writing by Angus McDowall and Mohammad Zargham; Editing by Janet Lawrence) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. By Will Dunham WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Twelve days after being named special counsel to investigate Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, Robert Mueller delivered a speech to his granddaughter's high school graduating class at Tabor Academy in Marion, Massachusetts. In this rare public appearance in May 2017, Mueller did not bring up President Donald Trump or the investigation, but offered a clear message stressing the importance of honesty and integrity By Will Dunham WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Twelve days after being named special counsel to investigate Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, Robert Mueller delivered a speech to his granddaughter's high school graduating class at Tabor Academy in Marion, Massachusetts. In this rare public appearance in May 2017, Mueller did not bring up President Donald Trump or the investigation, but offered a clear message stressing the importance of honesty and integrity. "You could be smart, aggressive, articulate, indeed persuasive, but if you are not honest, your reputation will suffer," Mueller said. "And once lost, a good reputation can never, ever be regained. The saying goes: If you have integrity, nothing else matters, and if you do not have integrity, nothing else matters." On Friday, Mueller handed in the long-awaited report on his investigation. Mueller, a 74-year-old decorated Vietnam War veteran and former FBI director known for his tough, no-nonsense leadership style, has faced unremitting attacks by Trump on his integrity as the Republican president has tried to discredit the investigation and the special counsel himself. Trump declined to sit for an interview with the special counsel's team. Mueller has remained silent about the inquiry but has spoken loudly through court filings and the indictments of 34 people, including several key Trump aides as well as Russian intelligence officers and three Russian companies. Mueller, a longtime Republican, was named by the Justice Department's No. 2 official, Rod Rosenstein, to take over the Russia investigation after Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, whose agency had led the probe. Mueller has looked into whether Trump's campaign conspired with Russia and whether the president has unlawfully tried to obstruct the investigation. Trump, facing political peril from the inquiry, has used Twitter, campaign-style speeches and comments to news media to assail Mueller, accusing him of running a politically motivated, "rigged witch hunt;" going "rogue;" surrounding himself with "thugs" and having conflicts of interest. "It's all a big hoax," Trump said on Friday. Mueller has been a fixture in American law enforcement for decades and is considered the architect of the modern FBI, serving as its director from 2001 to 2013. He was first appointed to the post by Republican President George W. Bush, then his appointment was extended by Bush's successor, Democrat Barack Obama. Mueller took over as Federal Bureau of Investigation director a week before the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States by al Qaeda militants that killed about 3,000 people. By the time Mueller left the position, his tenure was exceeded only by J. Edgar Hoover's 48-year stint. 'BOBBY THREE STICKS' Mueller was known by some as "Bobby Three Sticks" because of his full name - Robert Mueller III - a moniker that belies his formal bearing and sober approach to law enforcement. He was credited with transforming the premier U.S. law enforcement agency after Congress and an independent government commission determined the FBI and CIA had failed to share information before the Sept. 11 attacks that could have helped prevent them. Mueller revamped the FBI into an agency centered on protecting national security in addition to law enforcement, putting more resources into counterterrorism investigations and improving cooperation with other U.S. agencies. He put his career on the line in 2004 when he and Comey, then the deputy attorney general, threatened to resign when White House officials sought to reauthorize a domestic eavesdropping programme that the Justice Department had deemed unconstitutional. The two rushed to a Washington hospital and prevented top Bush aides from persuading an ailing Attorney General John Ashcroft, recovering from gall bladder surgery, to reauthorize the surveillance programme. Comey succeeded Mueller as FBI director in 2013. After graduating from Princeton University, Mueller served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, leading a rifle platoon and receiving commendations including the Bronze Star. His became a federal prosecutor in 1976 and remained in public service until his FBI retirement, with the exception of a couple of short stints with law firms. He became a U.S. assistant attorney general in 1991 and was a key player on high-profile federal prosecutions such as the 1992 convictions of former Panamanian leader Manuel Antonio Noriega and New York Mafia boss John Gotti and the investigation into the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland. Mueller's Russia investigation already has yielded a series of guilty pleas and a conviction in the only trial held to date. Trump's former campaign chairman Paul Manafort was convicted on eight charges and pleaded guilty to two others, receiving a 7-1/2-year prison sentence. Trump's former national security adviser Michael Flynn, former personal lawyer Michael Cohen and former campaign aides Rick Gates and George Papadopoulos have entered guilty pleas. Longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone has pleaded not guilty to charges. The big question is whether Mueller will present evidence of criminal conduct by Trump himself. Such findings could prompt the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives to begin the congressional impeachment process laid out in the U.S. Constitution for removing a president from office for "treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanours." While Trump has hammered away at Mueller, others have defended the special counsel's integrity, including some formerly associated with the president such as former White House attorney Ty Cobb. "I think," Cobb said in an ABC News podcast interview, "Bob Mueller is an American hero." (Reporting by Will Dunham; Editing by Bill Trott and Jonathan Oatis) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Feature phone shipments expected to cross one billion units by 2021 News oi-Priyanka Dua The Jio Phone uses KaiOS as the operating system. KaiOS has also been expanding its reach in Africa. According to a new report by Counterpoint, feature phone shipments are expected to cross one billion units by 2021. India continues to be the largest market in terms of potential feature phone volumes followed by Bangladesh and Nigeria. "India and the Middle East Africa region will see cumulative shipments of around 800 million feature phones out of more than one billion global feature phone shipments over the next three years," Peter Richardson, Research Director at Counterpoint Research, said. It said much of the growth of feature phones in India has been driven by the revival of the Nokia-branded features phones and the popularity of the Jio Phone, a smart feature phone which packs a chipset and an operating system that can support sophisticated smartphone-like features in a traditional feature phone form-factor. The Jio Phone uses KaiOS as the operating system. KaiOS has also been expanding its reach in Africa. At the recently held Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, KaiOS announced partnerships with African operator Orange to launch KaiOS-powered smart feature phones priced at US$20 across 16 countries in Africa and the Middle East. There are more than three billion people across the world who live on an income of less than $2.50 per day. This segment can neither afford a smartphone nor the data services demanded by the growing advancement in smartphone use-cases. Thus, a feature phone, coupled with basic mobile services has been the go-to offering for these users to communicate and connect. Most of these users are prevalent across Africa, parts of Asia and Latin America," says Tarun Pathak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research. There is also a business case for network operators to push feature phones. In most markets, network operators want customers to upgrade from 2G/3G to 4G networks. "The problem is most of these users still cannot afford a 4G smartphone. Therefore, operators and the mobile industry players need to offer 4G VoLTE feature phones and move users to the more efficient 4G network," says Pathak. 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 Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro receives Android 9 Pie update based on MIUI 10 9.3.22 News oi-Vivek Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 SoC Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro, the Redmi Note 7 Pro predecessor was one of the best affordable smartphones of 2018, which is now available for Rs 11,999 has finally received Android 9 Pie update, albeit, via the beta channel. MIUI10 9.3.21 beta for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro is based on Android 9 Pie, which is now available for download. Do note that, as this is a beta update, it might contain some bugs, which will be ironed out in with the future software updates. The MIUI 10 9.2.21 is based on Android 9 Pie and also comes with March 2019 Google Security Update. To install MIUI 10 9.3.21 visit the below mentioned URL. Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro specs The Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro comes with a 6.26-inch FHD+ IPS display with 2.5D curved tempered glass. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 SoC powers the Note 6 Pro with 4/6 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. The smartphone has dual cameras at the back with a 12 MP primary camera and a 5 MP depth camera. On the front, the device has a dual camera setup with a 20 MP primary camera and a 2 MP depth camera. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro is also the first Redmi smartphone to launch in India with a quad-camera setup. The Redmi Note 6 Pro has a dual hybrid slot, which can accept two SIM cards or a SIM and a microSD card slot for additional storage expansion. The phone also supports 4G LTE and VoLTE on both the slots with dual channel Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0. The Redmi Note 6 Pro is fueled by a 4000 mAh Li-ion battery with support for Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 via micro USB port with a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack. The smartphone also has a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack. 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 NASA releases images of meteorite that caused 173 kilotons explosion over Earth News oi-Vishal Kawadkar This was the most powerful meteorite since 2013 fireball over Russia. NASA has released satellite images of a meteor which appeared over the Bering Sea on December 18 but went unnoticed until a few months. The explosion generated ten times the energy of the atomic bomb that was dropped over Hiroshima in World War II. The impact released around 173 kilotons of energy. The images were taken minutes after the meteor disintegrated in the atmosphere and show the shadow of the fireball trail on top of clouds. The super-heated air turns the clouds to an orange tint. NASA used the instruments on its Terra satellite to capture the phenomenon. A still picture was captured at 2350 GMT, while five cameras on the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) instrument captured another sequence of photos at 2355, which the space agency collected into a GIF that shows the orange tail. According to NASA, the meteor occurred at 23:48 GMT. Meteors are rocks from outer space that become incandescent upon entering the Earth's atmosphere due to friction. In common language, we also call them shooting stars. The pieces that survive the atmosphere and hit the ground are called meteorites. It is said to be the most powerful explosion after the meteorite that burst over the Russian town of Chelyabinsk in 2013. The 440 kiloton explosion left around 1,500 people injured. This time, the explosion took place over waters, hundreds of kilometers off the Russian coast. Best Mobiles in India China to build deep-sea navigation system in South China Sea Global Times By Deng Xiaoci in Shanghai Source:Global Times Published: 2019/3/22 16:58:40 China is planning to build a blue water high-precision regional navigation system, dubbed as the underwater BeiDou, in a pilot program in the South China Sea to provide positioning, navigation, and communication services for global users, a key developer of the system told the Global Times on Thursday. The blue water navigation system, codenamed UGPS, will provide crucial technological support for China's branching into the domain of deep water, especially for the country's deep-sea submersibles, according to the Shanghai Acoustic Laboratory under the Chinese Academy of Sciences on Thursday. Although it is codenamed UGPS, it will be based on services of China's domestically developed BeiDou Navigation Satellite System for its time and communication service rather than those from the US GPS, Huang Chudan, director of the laboratory's general office, told the Global Times on Thursday. "The radio positioning signals can hardly penetrate deep water, therefore submarines and unmanned submersibles cannot use existing navigation satellite systems. The UGPS will use sound wave signals instead of radio ones for positioning under the water," Huang explained. The laboratory did not reveal on how deep into the sea the system would be effective, nor the precision level of the service. During the period of the 13th Five-Year Plan 2016-20, China will build a UGPS demonstration area, covering some 250,000 kilometers of the South China Sea, about 10 percent of the total Chinese territorial waters in the region, said the lab employee. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lebanese president tells Pompeo Hezbollah has popular support Iran Press TV Fri Mar 22, 2019 01:59PM Lebanese President Michel Aoun told has told US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that the Lebanese resistance movement, Hezbollah, has a popular support in the country. "Preserving national unity and civil peace is a priority for us," Aoun told Pompeo, the Lebanese presidency said on its Twitter feed. Pompeo met with Aoun at the presidential palace in Baabda, east of the capital Beirut on Friday. The visiting top US diplomat claimed that his pressure on Iran and Hezbollah was working and urged Lebanon to stand up to the resistance movement which he accused of "terror and threats." "Our pressure on Iran is simple. It's aimed at cutting off the funding for terrorists and it's working," he said in a statement after meeting Lebanese political leaders. "We believe that our work is already constraining Hezbollah's activities." During a joint news conference with Lebanon's Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil, Pompeo called on Lebanon to pick a side. "Lebanon and the Lebanese people face a choice: bravely move forward as an independent and proud nation or allow the dark ambitions of Iran and Hezbollah to dictate your future," he said. 'Hezbollah is not a terrorist group' Bassil stood side by side with Pompeo at the new conference but he rejected the terrorist denunciation of the US official for Hezbollah. Bassil said he held "constructive and positive talks" with Pompeo but added that their were differences of perspective with regards to Hezbollah. "Hezbollah is a Lebanese party, not a terrorist group, and it enjoys a wide popular base," he said. "We don't want our ties with America to be affected and we want to work together to solve problems, including the issue with Hezbollah," he said. 'Hezbollah sanctions hurt Lebanon' Earlier, the long-serving speaker of Lebanon's parliament, Nabih Berri, told Pompeo that American sanctions against Hezbollah were having a "negative impact on Lebanon and the Lebanese." Nabih Berri told the top US diplomat in a meeting in Beirut that Hezbollah is a Lebanese political party whose members are in the government and parliament, and that it is carrying out "resistance" against Israel to free Lebanese territory from Israeli occupation. Earlier in the day, Pompeo also met with Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri at the Grand Serail, which is the headquarters of the Prime Minister of Lebanon. The US secretary of state on Thursday declared he would be "very clear" in his meetings in the Lebanese capital that "Lebanon's success depends on the Lebanese people (demanding) that a terrorist organization not be in control of their government and not drive policies." "Hezbollah is a terrorist organization. You ask how tough I am going to be? It is a terrorist organization. Period. Full stop," Pompeo said in the Israeli-occupied Jerusalem al-Quds on Thursday, before leaving for ebanon. "We'll spend a lot of time talking with the Lebanese government about how we can help them disconnect from the threat that Iran and Hezbollah present to them," Pompeo told reporters earlier this week. Washington claims that the Lebanese resistance movement condones terrorism despite the fact that Hezbollah has been involved in a fierce fight against Takfiri terror groups, including Daesh and al-Nusra Front, thus preventing the spillover of the militancy gripping neighboring Syria into Lebanon. Hezbollah has also supported the Syrian army in its fight against foreign-sponsored terrorists, who have been wreaking havoc in the Arab country since March 2011. However, Washington has for long accused Hezbollah of being behind the 1983 bombing attack, in which 241 US Marines were killed. In October, the administration of President Donald Trump imposed a new round of sanctions on the movement, targeting individuals and international organizations that do business with the group. The sanctions legislation Trump signed is known as the Hezbollah International Financing Prevention Amendments Act 2018. Hezbollah was founded in the 1980s following the Israeli invasion and occupation of southern Lebanon. The movement waged a long resistance campaign against Israeli forces and pushed them out of southern Lebanon in May 2000. Since then, the group has grown into a powerful military force. Israel also suffered a humiliating defeat from Hezbollah in the 2006 war. Since its inception in 1985, the Lebanese resistance movement has been a thorn in the side of Israel and its foreign backers, including the United States. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN raps Israel's use of 'unlawful force' against Gazans Iran Press TV Fri Mar 22, 2019 01:27PM The United Nations (UN)'s Human Rights Council has denounced Israel's use of "unlawful lethal and other excessive force" against unarmed Palestinian protesters in the besieged Gaza Strip. Gazans started protesting along a fence that separates the Gaza Strip from the Israeli-occupied territories on March 30, 2018 demanding the right to return for those Palestinians driven out of their homeland by Israeli aggression and calling for a halt to Israel's inhumane blockade of the enclave. Israeli forces deployed to the area have used force from across the fence against the protesters, killing over 260 Palestinians and injuring thousands since the protests started. On Friday, the Humans Rights Council adopted a resolution on accountability tabled by Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The resolution was adopted with 23 votes in favor, eight against, and 15 abstentions. The delegation of one member state was absent. The text also called for cooperation by the Israeli regime with a preliminary examination that was launched by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2015 into Israeli human rights violations. The resolution was based on a UN Independent Commission of Inquiry report that found that Israeli forces had committed violations of international human rights and humanitarian law that "may constitute war crimes or crimes against humanity" in killing 189 Palestinians and injuring thousands between March 30 and December 31, 2018. Citing the report's findings, Palestine's Ambassador to the UN Office in Geneva Ibrahim Khraishi stressed that "the targeting of civilians is a serious matter that should not be condoned." Khraishi said 35 children, two journalists, and an unspecified number of medical workers had been among those killed during the period of inquiry. "There have not been any injuries inflicted on any Israelis, be they military or civilians," he said. The Israeli regime's ambassador, Aviva Raz Shechter, said the voting had been marked by "bias against Israel." The protests in Gaza reached their peak on May 14, 2018, the eve of the 70th anniversary of Nakba Day, or the Day of Catastrophe, which coincided that year with the United States' relocation of its embassy from Tel Aviv to the occupied Jerusalem al-Quds. Gaza has been under Israeli siege since June 2007, causing a decline in living standards. Israel has launched three major wars against the enclave since 2008, killing thousands of Gazans each time and shattering the impoverished territory's already poor infrastructure. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Abu Dhabi crown prince proposed killing Taliban leaders: Report Iran Press TV Fri Mar 22, 2019 06:13AM Mohammed bin Zayed, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, proposed to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to set up a covert program to assassinate Taliban leaders, a report says. He made the offer on January 12 during a meeting with Pompeo in the UAE capital amid disagreements between the two over peace talks between the Taliban and the US, London-based Middle East Eye reported Thursday. Bin Zayed warned Pompeo that US pullout of troops from Afghanistan risked a regression to 2001, prior to the US invasion, the online portal cited an unknown source with detailed knowledge of the meeting as saying. Washington hopes a negotiated deal with the Taliban could allow it to start withdrawing some of its 14,000 troops still in the war-wracked country before the end of the year. Bin Zayed said the pullout risked allowing Afghanistan to fall back into the hands of the "backward, bearded bad guys" and proposed hiring mercenaries to kill Taliban leaders to weaken the group's negotiating position. The prince suggested that organizing and funding a "Blackwater-style" operation to "wage an assassination campaign against the first-line leadership of the Taliban" can give the US the upper hand in the talks, the source said. Blackwater, founded in 1997, received hundreds of millions of dollars in US government contracts during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The company found notoriety for its wanton killing of civilians in broad daylight, including 14 unarmed people in a famous Baghdad square in 2007. Blackwater was founded by Erik Prince which was hired by the CIA in 2004 to run covert operations in different parts of the world. Bin Zayed later hired Prince to build a mercenary army in the UAE to confront potential worker or pro-democracy uprisings inside the Persian Gulf country. In 2011, the New York Times reported that an 800-member battalion of foreign troops was brought into the UAE. In 2015, when Saudi Arabia launched aggression against Yemen, the UAE government decided to send hundreds of its mercenaries to fight for Saudi Arabia in the impoverished Arab country. They also had a mission to run an assassination program against leaders of the Yemeni Congregation for Reform, frequently called al-Islah, and advance its policies in Yemen. In October last year, Abraham Golan, a Hungarian-Israeli security contractor, revealed details about the assassination program to Buzzfeed. The UAE had reportedly hired former special forces to carry out the missions. "I was running it. We did it. It was sanctioned by the UAE within the coalition," Golan said. Al-Islah said in August last year that nine of its leaders had been murdered since 2015. They are among at least 27 clerics killed, often in drive-by shootings, in the southern city of Aden and surrounding areas by unidentified gunmen in the same period. The UAE government has publicly supported US peace talks with the Taliban. It hosted a two-day "reconciliation conference" in December, with Saudi and Pakistani officials also in attendance. Subsequent rounds of negotiations were moved to Qatar's capital, Doha, at the insistence of the Taliban, which have maintained a political office there since 2013. The source said the move by the Taliban had irked the UAE crown prince. The source said that US President Donald Trump's December announcement to withdraw all 2,000 troops from Syria also infuriated the UAE crown prince. "You are leaving Syria to be under Iranian and Turkish influence and that will bring everyone back. They will act against your acts and our interests," he reportedly told the US secretary of state. The crown prince said if the US changed its mind, the United Arab Emirates would be prepared to fund the cost of keeping US troops in Syria from its own budget, the report added. On Monday, the Wall Street Journal, citing American officials, said Washington planned to keep about 1,000 troops in Syria. US Joint Chiefs Chairman General Joseph Dunford rejected the report as "factually incorrect," stressing that there was no change to the planned 400 troops which the White House wanted to keep in Syria. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Says IS Territory In Syria Eliminated, Despite Reports Of Ongoing Clashes March 22, 2019 U.S. President Donald Trump has said that all Islamic State (IS)-held territory in Syria has been eliminated, even as reports of continued fighting came from the battlefield of Baghouz. Trump said on March 22 that "it's about time" that IS no longer controlled territory in the region, and he showed a before-and-after map to reporters to demonstrate the extent of jihadist losses during his presidency. Earlier, Trump's spokeswoman, Sarah Sanders, said that "the territorial caliphate has been eliminated in Syria." Asked by reporters if IS had lost 100 percent of its territory, Sanders replied, "Yes." However, a spokesman for the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) said that despite the White House's assurances, clashes were ongoing. "Heavy fighting continues around mount Baghouz right now to finish off whatever remains of [Islamic State]," Mustafa Bali, head of the SDF media office, said on Twitter on March 22. A U.S.-led coalition has helped the SDF drive IS from swathes of northeastern Syria and down the Euphrates Valley since 2015 with air strikes and special forces assistance. SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel said earlier on March 22 that there were still IS fighters and women and children hiding in caves near Baghouz. The complete fall of Baghouz would mark the demise of the IS group's self-declared caliphate, which at its height stretched across large parts of Syria and Iraq. Meanwhile, Syrian Ambassador to the UN Bashar Jaafari said that IS was not yet finished in Syria. He said it was the Syrian government backed by Russia and Iran that was genuinely battling it, not the United States. Some IS fighters remain holed up in the central Syrian desert, an area entirely surrounded by the Syrian Army. Based on reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/trump-says-is-territory -in-syria-eliminated-despite-reports -of-ongoing-clashes/29837051.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 U.S. Special Counsel Submits Final Report On Russia Investigation To Justice Department By RFE/RL March 22, 2019 U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller has submitted his long-awaited report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election. A letter signed by Attorney General William Barr and released by the Justice Department on March 22 confirmed the report had been received. The letter, addressed to several top lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives, quotes Barr as saying that he could inform Congress of its principal conclusions "as soon as this weekend." How much of the report is released publicly is now up to Barr, the Justice Department, Congress, and the White House. Since 2017, Mueller has been examining both Russia's interference in the 2016 campaign, as well as interactions between associates of President Donald Trump and Russian officials. Mueller has also been examining whether Trump unlawfully tried to obstruct his investigation. Trump has repeatedly called Mueller's investigation "a witch hunt," and has denied all allegations that he sought to collude with Russian officials. Russia has also outright denied the conclusions of the U.S. intelligence community that it engaged in a cyber-and-propaganda effort during the 2016 campaign, aimed at bolstering Trump's bid for the presidency. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters that "we look forward to the process taking its course." With reporting by AP, Reuters, and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/us-special- counsel-delivers-report-to-attorney- general/29837102.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 White House Rejects Request For Info On Putin, Trump Helsinki Meeting March 22, 2019 The White House has rejected a request from three congressional committees seeking information on private conversations between President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Helsinki last summer. White House counsel Pat Cipollone sent a letter to the Democratic chairmen of the three committees in the House of Representatives on March 21. The president "must be free to engage in discussions with foreign leaders without fear that those communications will be disclosed," Cipollone said. In a letter earlier this month, three committees asked for details on Trump and Putin's conversations in person and by phone. They also asked for documents related to the conversations and whether Trump tried to conceal any evidence of them. And they asked for an interview with the interpreter who was present at the meeting. Since Democrats won control of the House in November elections they have become increasingly assertive in investigating the Trump White House. At the July Helsinki meeting, Trump stunned many Republican and Democratic congressional lawmakers when he contradicted the findings of the U.S. intelligence community about Russia's reported meddling in U.S. political affairs. In a later post to Twitter, he also called the investigation of Special Counsel Robert Mueller a "rigged witch hunt." Based on reporting by AP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/trump-mueller- russia-investigation/29835705.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 Heavy Air Patrol, Cross-Border Clashes Underway at Indo-Pak Border - Reports Sputnik News 16:26 22.03.2019(updated 19:34 22.03.2019) Local sources confirmed to Sputnik that heavy aerial activities, in addition to the firing of artillery, mortar and machine guns, are taking place from both sides of the Indo-Pak border. New Delhi (Sputnik): A day after Pakistani troops killed one Indian soldier, heavy shelling and firing have been reported at multiple locations including the Pallanwala, Sunderbani, Nowshera Poonch and Mendhar sectors of the Line of Control (de-facto border) on Friday. On Thursday, a soldier of the Indian Army was killed as Pakistani troops shelled forward areas and Indian posts with artillery and mortar bombs in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district. Two other soldiers who were injured in the Pallanwala sector were admitted to hospital, according to a defence official. In retaliation, the Indian Army has so far gunned down 12 Pakistani soldiers, including two officers, India's Republic TV channel reported. The Pakistani side has not issued a statement regarding the loss of soldiers. India has lost at least three military personnel in the cross-border clashes over the past four days. Earlier on Wednesday, The English daily Economic Times reported that the Indian Air Force sought additional ammunition, including air to air missiles, to counter Pakistan's build-up of its F-16 fleet along the border. Hostilities between Indian and Pakistani forces escalated after at least 40 Indian soldiers were killed when an explosive-laden car rammed into a convoy of vehicles carrying Indian soldiers on 14 February in Pulwama in India-administered Kashmir, with New Delhi accusing Islamabad of shielding the terrorist group behind the attack. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armed Islamists, Security Forces Killed Over 150 People in Burkina Faso Report Sputnik News 14:34 22.03.2019(updated 14:57 22.03.2019) MOSCOW (Sputnik) - More than 150 people have been killed and tens of thousands displaced in Burkina Faso amid atrocities by Islamist armed groups and counter-terror operations by security forces, the HRW watchdog said in a report on Friday. The 56-page report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) documents over 40 killings by Islamists, mostly of people they suspect to be collaborating with the government, as well as executions of over 115 men accused by security forces of supporting terrorists. "Scores of people have been murdered in what amounts to a dramatic deterioration in the rights situation in northern Burkina Faso. Villagers are living in fear as both armed Islamists and government forces have demonstrated utter disregard for human life," HRW Sahel director Corinne Dufka, who wrote the report, was quoted as saying in a statement. HRW said it had interviewed 92 victims and witnesses to the abuses, community leaders and officials, among others. The reported abuses took place in 32 villages in the troubled Sahel region between mid-2018 and February 2019. The nation's government has received a copy of the report and promised to investigate the allegations, the human rights advocacy group said. The report comes after a string of attacks by Islamist groups linked to al-Qaeda and Daesh* terror groups on army bases, police and civilians have rocked the West African country since 2016, mostly in the northern Sahel region, prompting a violent response from the government. *Daesh (also known as Islamic State, IS, ISIS, ISIL) and al-Qaeda terrorist groups, banned in numerous countries, including Russia Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Four Gunfights Erupt in last 24 Hours in Jammu and Kashmir, 4 Terrorists Killed Sputnik News 09:57 22.03.2019 Indian-administered Kashmir has witnessed ongoing clashes between Indian security forces and terrorists. New Delhi (Sputnik): At least four terrorists were killed and five security personnel injured in four separate gunfights that took place within the last 24 hours in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir between Indian forces and terrorists. On Friday morning, Indian security forces laid siege to Gadapora, a village in Shopian district, after being informed that terrorists were holed up there. In the ensuing gunfights, which started at 3:00 a.m. local time, one terrorist was killed. Local sources told Sputnik that some youths in the vicinity had tried to disrupt security forces in order to provide the terrorists with an escape route, made the job of the security forces quite tough. In another incident that took place on Thursday evening in Sopore in Baramulla district, a fresh exchange of fire took place between terrorists and security forces after a terrorist search operation was halted in the evening due to darkness. Three security personnel were injured after terrorists opened fire and had hurled grenades as the operation unfolded. In the third encounter which took place again on Thursday night in the Kalantra Kandi Kreeri area of Baramulla, two terrorists were killed and at least three security personnel were reportedly injured. Three local youths were also injured as security forces used teargas shells to quell protests that were taking place there. "In the ensuing encounter, two militants were killed and the bodies were retrieved from the site of encounter. Their identities and affiliations are being ascertained," a statement issued by the local police reads. In the Bandipore district, security personnel successfully eliminated a terrorist after fire was exchanged on Thursday in Mir Mohalla following a massive search operation launched by the Indian forces. Mild clashes also took place near Hajin bridge between Indian troops and the terrorists. Kashmir has been a disputed region with India and its neighbour Pakistan; both have staked a claim to it since 1947. The two nuclear-armed nations have fought three major wars since then. Relations between India and Pakistan witnessed a sharp decline over the 14 February Pulwama terror attack, which left over 40 Indian troops dead; India claimed that Pakistan had been a facilitator of terrorism. India has been accusing Pakistan of harbouring terrorists, a charge which Pakistan denies. Last month the two conducted air strikes into each other's airspace in a demonstration of their power and readiness to retaliate in the event of misadventure. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli Tank Strikes Hamas Post in Gaza in Response to Border Riots - IDF Sputnik News 07:02 22.03.2019(updated 08:38 22.03.2019) TEL AVIV (Sputnik) - An Israeli tank attacked a Hamas military post in response to violent rioting on the Gaza Strip border, the press service of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said on Thursday. The IDF called the latest protests "particularly violent" and accused the Palestinians of launching balloons laden with explosives across the border. "An IDF tank attacked the Hamas military post in the south of the Gaza Strip in response to particularly violent riots along the security fence as well as explosive and arson balloons that were fired during the day," the press service said. Tensions between the Israelis and the Palestinians near the Gaza border have been mounting since March 2018, which marked the beginning of the Great March of Return. Moreover, in fall, the situation on the Gaza border escalated due to continued shelling and launches of arson balloons from Gaza into Israeli territory. The Israeli authorities have been blaming Hamas for Gaza residents' aggressive actions toward Israel. Last year, the US decision to move the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital further incited protesters demonstrating to honour the 700,000 Palestinians who fled or were forced to leave their homes in 1948 amid the creation of the State of Israel. These protests were met with deadly force; an independent Commission of Inquiry, set up by the UN's human rights council last year, said Israel killed 189 people and shot more than 6,100 others with live ammunition near the Gaza fence, according to The Guardian. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bolton on Trump's 'All Options on Table' in Venezuela Quote: 'He's Very Serious' Sputnik News 04:40 22.03.2019(updated 04:49 22.03.2019) A political crisis has plagued Venezuela since late January, yet the question of how to resolve the situation is still open. US President Donald Trump has been clear on this point when said that 'all options are on the table', US National Security Advisor John Bolton said Thursday. "President Trump himself has been clear on this point on any number of occasions when he says all options are on the table. I think people need to understand and believe that; he's very serious about it," Bolton said during an interview with Sirius XM's Breitbart News Daily. The US National Security Advisor claimed that Washington is concerned about its citizens in Venezuela, who are estimated to be between 40 and 50,000, and that the government of the US has a duty to protect them from "violence and intimidation", saying that "that's something that I think everybody needs to keep in mind". Earlier, Bolton said via Twitter that Washington has yet to impose its toughest sanctions against the government of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. The US Treasury has already imposed several rounds of sanctions on Venezuelan state companies since January. Venezuela has been embroiled in a political crisis since January after Juan Guaido proclaimed himself interim president, demanding Maduro's resignation and fresh elections. The move was instantly recognised by the United States and a slew of Latin American countries, while Russia, China, Mexico, and a number of other nations reaffirmed their support for Nicolas Maduro as Venezuela's only legitimately elected president. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks With Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Beirut, Lebanon March 22, 2019 FOREIGN MINISTER BASSIL: Welcome, Mr. Secretary. Welcome in Lebanon, friend of Lebanon. (Via interpreter) I was honored to welcome the U.S. Secretary of State Mr. Mike Pompeo in a visit which is first of its kind to Lebanon. It showcases the importance and the depth of the relationships between the two countries, and it indicates the importance of the Lebanese stability. This is in terms of the form. In terms of the content, it shows the depths of these particular relationships between the two countries. As such, we have established today a positive and constructive dialogue based on the depth of the relationships between the two Lebanese and American people. Usually, when you establish ties between countries, it is more difficult to concretize this at the level of both peoples, but the bilateral relations between the two peoples are very deep. We have more than 1 million Lebanese who are well-integrated in the American community, and they were exceptionally hosted by the American community. And Mr. Pompeo experienced this when he was a congressman from the Kansas state. The U.S. supports the legitimate institutions in Lebanon, most importantly, the Lebanese Army, which is the basic pillar and major pillar, and the guarantee of the stability in Lebanon. That is why we appreciate this. We thank this and we thank the Americans for their assistance to the security institutions, to the Lebanese Armed Forces. We thank the USA for the assistance granted to a large group of Lebanese communities. We have discussed the border issues, and Lebanon is showing a lot of positivity in this regard. And as basic for that, the Lebanese sovereignty, and as you know, my position, personal position, is very clear, and the position of whom I represent is a positive position, and there is an opportunity to recover the rights of Lebanon, the lands of Lebanon, without any concessions. And this allows Lebanon to achieve a diplomatic and political victory. The political and diplomatic victory is equivalent to any kind of other victory. On such a basis we can achieve this without making any concessions, whether on the land or in the sea regarding the oil and gas resources, and we will exert a lot of efforts with internal parties in order to secure the rights of Lebanon. As for the oil issues, it is a personal issues that I work on as a former minister of energy for a certain period and at a certain time, and we were able to convince the U.S. companies to take part in the bidding processes. And when they were eligible to do that, they did not want to participate anymore, then a consortium of European and Russian companies have won the bidding. They were coming, of course, from different countries, and as you know, there are sanctions imposed between the EU and Russia. As such, I invited the American companies to take part in the bidding processes related to this field in Lebanon, and we invite as well the American companies to take part in the light of the alliance between Russia and the USA. But of course, as this would increase the stability and this would secure more stability in Lebanon. Lebanon, with multi-diversity, is open to with its diversity to all. I have related our commitment to 1701 resolution and to secure tranquility at the southern borders and to stop the recurrent Israeli violations which are around 1,800 per year. And I reiterated the natural right of Lebanon to defend itself and to resist the occupation of its land and any aggression against its people, and it is a sacred right in the international treaties and instruments. We discussed as well the diversity of Lebanon. And this Easter and the USA invites us on a yearly basis to an interfaith dialogue conference. That is why I reiterated our desire to cooperate with the USA in order to hold this conference and to reject the unilaterals and to secure the diversity of Lebanon, which is an unprecedented model, in order to counter terrorism. We cannot counter terrorism with unilateralism but with diversity, and the crimes perpetrated in New Zealand show the legitimacy of our position. The extremism leads to extremism, while tolerance coupled with international laws and instruments is remedy for extremism. It is the one that paves the way for dialogue, for peaceful coexistence and sound coexistence between populations. I also discussed the issue of the displaced, and I explained to His Excellency Mr. Pompeo the risk and the danger of the presence of the displaced to the presence, the unique presence of the Lebanese identity, and I established a comparison with regards to the presence of the Syrian displaced in Lebanon. For Kansas, that has 2,700,000 U.S. citizens, if I apply the number of the Syrian displaced and the Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, which are 200 per square kilometer, they it is equivalent to around 2 million Canadians in Kansas. And this is not related to the bilateral ties between countries; this shows that one American state would have to host 1.5 the number of the inhabitants of Canada, and this is unbearable for any country, especially for Lebanon. As such, we have requested your support for the safe and decent return of the Syrian displaced without having it as a voluntary return, because the requirements for the return and the completion of these requirements do not give the displaced any choice to stay. When such requirements are fulfilled and secured, the return should take place. All in all, we did not talk about a forced and collective return. We are hosting those displaced, but it is time for their return, and this is in the interest of Lebanon. This is in the interest of all brotherly countries. In Syria, the solution that we are striving for is a political solution. It is a solution that leads to democratic and free elections that gives to the Syrians the right to choose their own representatives. As such, Lebanon disassociates itself from all these issues and is willing not to intervene in the affairs of others so as to disable others from interfering in its own affairs. At the end, we discussed the Hizballah issue from our own side from both sides as well. From our side, we reiterated that Hizballah is a political party, that it is not terrorist. His deputies are being elected by the Lebanese people, and they garnered a huge political support. As for the classification of Hizballah as a terrorist group, it is not our classification. It is a classification of the country that wants to do that, but we are attached to our national unity and we are attached to the fact that this should preclude good relations with the USA. As such, we do not want our relations with the USA to be impacted or influenced by this, and we want to work together in order to solve all these problems, including the issue of Hizballah and the perception of Hizballah and how to deal with Hizballah. At the end, the stability of Lebanon and the preservation of the national unity of Lebanon is in Lebanese interest and is in American interest. It is a regional interest and it is an international interest because there is an interest in keeping Lebanon as a paradigm able to fight and counter terror and to show that it is a vital model. Mr. Secretary, I would like to conclude with the following. I would like to address you and the American Government and the American people. Maybe geography separates us, but what unites us are human principles. What can separate us is the principle of resistance, but what unites us is the struggle for freedom. What separates us is unilateralism, but what unites us is the acceptance of the other. That is why Lebanon will be remain unique in its diversity, in its rebellion, in its freedom, and it won't be at any time a fertile soil for terrorism, but a resistance to such terrorism. We won't change our nature, our diversity, and Lebanon won't be unilateral, but it will remain diversity. Please, show priority to the friendship with Lebanon and let us work for its stability and unity. Thank you, Your Excellency. SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Foreign Minister. Thanks for hosting me here today. It's great to be returning to Lebanon to and for I think the third or fourth time, but the first time as Secretary of State. As the foreign minister said, I represented southcentral Kansas, home to a thriving population from that came to the United States in the 1890s successful entrepreneurs, doctors, leaders, capable immigrants that came to the United States and integrated successfully. It's that same flourishing that we see of the Lebanese people in southcentral Kansas that we hope for everyone here in this great country. I had the chance to meet today with President Aoun, with Speaker Berri, with the prime minister, and now with the foreign minister. I have other meetings on my schedule for later today and tomorrow. In each of my discussions, Lebanese leaders conveyed their hopes for a better future of peace and security and prosperity for their country and for their people. Every citizen of Lebanon should know that the United States wishes precisely the same. But we have to confront the facts. Hizballah stands in the way of the Lebanese people's dreams. For 34 years, Hizballah has put the Lebanese people at risk with unilateral, unaccountable decisions on war and peace, and life and death. Whether through political promises or outright intimidation of voters, Hizballah sits inside the national assembly or other state institutions and pretends to support the state. Meanwhile, Hizballah defies the state and the people of Lebanon through a terrorist wing committed to spreading destruction. Hizballah's armed campaigns are squarely opposed to the interests of the Lebanese people. How does the expanding of expending of resources and lives of those constituents in Yemen, Iraq, and Syria help the citizens of south Lebanon, Beirut, or the Bekaa Valley? How does stockpiling tens of thousands of rockets and missiles in Lebanon territory for use against Israel make this country stronger? Moreover, Hizballah does these nefarious activities at the behest of the Iranian regime. Its foot soldiers serve at Tehran's bidding. Hizballah and its illegitimate militia put the entire country of Lebanon on the front lines of Iran's misguided proxy campaigns. Rest assured, Hizballah's Iranian patrons don't want the status quo in Lebanon to change. They see peace, prosperity, and independence for Lebanon as a fundamental threat to their political interest and their hegemonic ambitions. Finally, Hizballah's global criminal networks its drug smuggling, its attempts to launder money through the international system, and its interference with customs and other trade controls place Lebanon under the microscope of international law enforcement. Indeed, Hizballah robs the Lebanese state of resources that rightfully belong to its people. The Lebanese people should no longer be made to suffer for the political and military ambitions of an outlaw nation and its terrorist affiliate. It will take courage for the nation of Lebanon to stand up to Hizballah's criminality, terror, and threats. It will take effort to ensure full respect and independence for the Lebanese Armed Forces and other national security interests. To be clear, we understand the issue of Syrian refugees in Lebanon. This is another dimension in Iranian aggression, and we support their return to Syria in a secure and voluntary manner as soon as conditions allow. I want everyone in Lebanon to know that you will continue to have a friend in the United States. We will continue to support the legitimate state institutions of Lebanon and all of its people. In 2018, this year past, the United States provided more than $800 million in assistance to Lebanon. A fair question: What did Hizballah and Iran contribute? They contributed coffins of young Lebanese returning from Syria and ever more Iranian weapons. Qasem Soleimani and Hizballah's other Iranian backers continues to undermine Lebanon's legitimate security institutions and jeopardize the safety and security of the Lebanese people. It's plain to see which country is a force for good in Lebanon. The United States will continue to bring unprecedented pressure to bear on Iran until it ceases all malign behavior, including that which is carried out by Hizballah. Iran's support of Hizballah poses a threat to people to Arab people of all faiths, it weakens the Lebanese state, and undermines the prosperity of future generations. It also increases the likelihood of conflict and undercuts opportunities for peace between Israel and the Palestinians. The clerics in Tehran provide Hizballah with as much as $700 million each and every year. This is a staggering sum, especially given that up to 90 percent of Iran's labor force has long lived before below the poverty line. Our pressure on Iran is simple. It's aimed at cutting off the funding for terrorists, and it's working. On March 8th, Hassan Nasrallah begged Hizballah supporters to make new contributions. And we believe that our work is already constraining Hizballah's activities. The United States will continue to use all peaceful means everything at our disposal to choke off the financing, the smuggling, the criminal networks, and the misuse of government positions and influence that feeds Iran and Hizballah terror operations, and we will not hesitate to call out those who active actively and passively support these activities and betray the trust and hopes of the Lebanese people. I've had a chance to discuss each of these issues with Lebanese leaders. I expressed hope that the new Lebanese Government would be able to meet the needs of the Lebanese people. In that regard, I shared concern about both external and internal pressures upon the government, including coming from some of its members which do not serve an independent, thriving Lebanon. Frankly, Lebanon and the Lebanese people face a choice: Bravely move forward as an independent and proud nation or allow the dark ambitions of Iran and Hizballah to dictate your future. You all know the history. Lebanon has paid a terrible price over the past half-century for the sake of its independence. As I traveled from the airport, I was reminded powerfully of this past suffering. I passed the site where 35 years ago the predecessors of today's Hizballah murdered U.S. Marines on a peacekeeping mission. I passed near the site of the U.S. embassy where the same terrorist thugs killed America's diplomats as they worked. I viewed the memorial to Mr. Lebanon, Rafik Hariri, brutally assassinated for his courageous opposition to cruel tyranny of the Assad regime over Lebanon. But from that bitter past a better future beckons, and it is all around us. Neither Iran nor its partner Hizballah have the right to exact more suffering from the Lebanese people. Beirut is rightly seen as a symbol of rebirth out of ashes; of coexistence out of separation; of mosques, churches, and synagogues rebuilt side by side in what was once a bitter green line that divided family from family and friend from friend. Mr. Foreign Minister, you should know and I want all the Lebanese people to know the United States will continue to stand with the Lebanese people as they seize the opportunities they so richly deserve, to live as a free people. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Unilaterally Declares IS in Syria '100 Percent Eliminated' By Jeff Seldin March 22, 2019 U.S. President Donald Trump declared the end of the Islamic State terror group's self-declared caliphate Friday, saying the terror group had been "100 percent defeated" a claim that was quickly refuted by U.S.-backed forces on the ground. Trump made the announcement following a briefing from Acting Defense Secretary Pat Shanahan aboard Air Force One en route to Florida. Trump then showed reporters onboard a map with no IS presence in Syria. "The territorial caliphate has been eliminated in Syria," added White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. At its height in 2014, IS ruled over large swaths of Syria and Iraq, boasting dual capitals in Raqqa, Syria, and Mosul, Iraq. Since then, the U.S.-led international coalition, along with partners on the ground, have rolled back the terror group's hold. The very last territory under IS control a couple of scraps of land in the northeastern Syrian town of Baghuz began to slip through the terror group's grip for good late Thursday into early Friday, after the U.S.-led coalition launched a new wave of airstrikes targeting the remaining IS-held positions. But shortly after Trump's announcement, SDF spokesman Mustafa Bali told VOA's Kurdish Service he could not confirm IS's defeat, as his forces were still engaged with IS fighters in Baghuz and that additional airstrikes were being carried out as he spoke. "Heavy fighting continues ... to finish off whatever remains of ISIS," Bali tweeted later, using an acronym for the terror group. Earlier Friday, SDF officials warned that despite the series of airstrikes that began late Thursday night, several hundred IS fighters were still battling U.S.-backed forces in Baghuz. Both SDF and coalition officials have also been wary that unknown numbers of IS fighters could still be lurking in trenches and in a complex system of caves and tunnels. The tunnels, which are thought to run for at least two kilometers, helped hide tens of thousands of IS fighters and their families through much of the early part of the SDF offensive. And officials said there are indications certain tunnels may even extend into neighboring Iraq. The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said just within the past day or so U.S.-backed forces encountered a group of more than 300 IS fighters in one of the caves and had to call in airpower. The SDF has been wary of declaring victory over IS in Baghuz, pointing to numerous predictions of the terror group's ultimate demise over the past several months that all proved to be premature. But Trump has repeatedly predicted IS's demise, telling reporters just this past Wednesday the caliphate would be "gone by tonight" even though fighting persisted. "For political reasons, he wants to declare victory," said Heritage Foundation Middle East analyst Jim Phillips. "I think his statements are aimed at a domestic, American audience." As well as that message may be received by Trump's supporters, however, there are deep-seeded concerns that mistaking the collapse of the caliphate with the end of IS could be costly. "The same conditions that led to the rise of ISIS and before that to the rise of al-Qaida in Iraq are still present in the region," said Phillips, adding the U.S. likely will need to "remain poised to intervene with air power, perhaps with commandos." U.S. defense and intelligence officials are likewise concerned. "We view this as a strategic shift," a senior defense official said. "This is really that transition point, that inflection point from ISIS holding physical control of an area to something that comes after." The biggest worry: upwards of 60,000 people, including more than 5,000 IS fighters, who have surrendered or been captured since the SDF and coalition launched their final assault last month. "These folks are unrepentant," the official said. "The seeds for a future caliphate, or certainly a persistent clandestine insurgency, exist in these large numbers of people who ... are looking to reposition for future perpetuation of ISIS in some form or fashion." U.S. officials also warn that most of the group's senior leadership, including self-declared caliph, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, remain at large, commanding at minimum "tens of thousands" of fighters and supporters across Syria and Iraq. And even in the face of imminent defeat, IS's true believers remain defiant. "Those who are bewildered and think that our caliphate is over ... we will say that it's remaining and expanding," a fighter from Baghuz, identifying himself as Abu al-Harith al-Ansari, said in a video released Thursday and translated by the SITE Intelligence Group. "The banner has been elevated, and the Ummah, whose sons are racing to martyrdom, does not know defeat," he said. Patsy Widakuswara and the VOA Kurdish service contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Clashes With Taliban Kill Two US Soldiers in Afghanistan By Ayaz Gul March 22, 2019 A joint counter-Taliban operation in northern Afghanistan Friday killed two American service members and an Afghan partner, officials said. The insurgent group said the raid took place in a Taliban-held area around the capital city of the volatile Kunduz province. Officials with the NATO-led Operation Resolute Support confirmed the two U.S. fatalities, bringing to four the number of U.S. military personnel killed in Afghanistan this year. The Taliban "fiercely" resisted the joint raid and ensuing clashes were still continuing in the area, said insurgent spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. He claimed in a brief statement that three U.S. and nine Afghan commando forces were killed, though Taliban claims are often inflated. Mujahid did not discuss Taliban casualties and said more details will be released soon. Local officials said the operation killed many insurgents and a member of Afghan special forces was also among the dead, according to the New York Times. About 14,000 U.S. soldiers deployed to the country are tasked to train and advise Afghan forces battling the Taliban. Separately, the U.S. military is also conducting operations against terrorist groups, including al-Qaida and Islamic State. Last year, 12 American service members were killed in military action in Afghanistan. U.S. President Donald Trump plans to withdraw American forces from Afghanistan but he has linked the drawdown to progress in ongoing talks Washington is holding with the Taliban to end the war. U.S. and Taliban negotiators announced at the end of their latest round of meetings in Qatar earlier this month that they had reached a preliminary draft agreement on the withdrawal of foreign forces in return for insurgent guarantees they will not to allow Afghan soil to be use again for international terrorism. Chief U.S. negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad is scheduled to host his Russian, Chinese and European Union counterparts in Washington Friday to discuss "progress to date in peace talks" with the Taliban. A State Department announcement said the discussions would also focus on the role Russia, China and the EU can play in bringing an end to the war, the longest overseas U.S. military intervention. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Dunford: Google's Work with China 'Challenges' US Military Advantage By Carla Babb March 22, 2019 The top U.S. military officer has called out U.S. technology giant Google for its artificial intelligence venture in China, saying it "creates a challenge" in maintaining a U.S. military advantage over the Chinese. Google has said it will not renew a Pentagon contract involving the use of artificial intelligence to analyze drone video but continues to develop artificial intelligence in China. "That venture for artificial intelligence in China indirectly benefits the Chinese military and creates a challenge for us in maintaining a competitive advantage," Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Thursday. Dunford, Google execs to meet China is a competitor to the United States. The Trump administration even revamped the military's National Defense Strategy last year to make maintaining a military advantage over China and Russia its top priority. Dunford said Thursday that the Chinese typically require companies doing business in China to have members of the ruling Communist party in that company, a requirement he says will allow the Chinese military access to the companies' intellectual property. "It is a distinction without a difference between the Chinese Communist Party, the government and the Chinese military," Dunford said. The top general plans to meet with Google representatives next week to discuss his concerns. Google responds A Google representative told VOA the company is "committed to continuing to partner with the U.S. government, including the military, both on specific projects and on broader policy around AI" that are consistent with Google's principles. The representative added that Google deeply respects the U.S. military and is working with them to solve problems in areas such as cybersecurity, logistics, transportation and planning. Dunford warned that Google's venture in China will ultimately allow China to take advantage of U.S.-developed technology and help an authoritarian government assert control over its people. "We ought not to think that it's just about business when we do business in China," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN: No Quick, Easy Solution to Western Sahara Conflict By Lisa Schlein March 22, 2019 A second round of U.N.-mediated talks aimed at solving the Western Sahara conflict has ended with no resolution, but with an agreement by the Moroccan and the Polisario Front delegations to meet again. Getting parties in a dispute that has lasted 43 years to agree to keep talking is an achievement itself, albeit a small one. The U.N. mediator, former German President Horst Koehler, said there was still a lot of work ahead in the effort to end the conflict. "Nobody should expect a quick outcome, because many positions are still fundamentally diverging," he said. "At the same time, being able to listen to each other, even when things get controversial, is an important step to build trust." Morocco annexed the mineral-rich Western Sahara in 1975. A 16-year war between the kingdom and the indigenous Sahawari people, led by the Polisario Front, ended in 1991 with a U.N.-brokered truce. But the parties remain deeply divided. The Polisario Front is steadfast in its demand that Western Sahara become an independent state. The delegation says its aim in the talks is to achieve its people's inalienable right to self-determination and independence. Morocco rejects independence for Western Sahara but says it is willing to grant wide-ranging autonomy to the region. Kohler said many people whose lives are directly affected by the conflict are placing their hope in the peace process. He said it would take genuine effort by the parties to build the trust necessary to make progress. "The costs of this conflict, in terms of human suffering, lack of prospects for the youth and security risks, are far too high to be accepted," he said. "Therefore, we must not relent in our search for a compromise." Kohler said the opposing delegations agree the whole Maghreb region would greatly benefit from a solution to the question of Western Sahara. He said they had agreed to meet again at a time still to be determined. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pence Calls for Roberto Marrero Release in Venezuela By VOA News March 22, 2019 U.S. Vice President Mike Pence has said the United States "will not tolerate" the continued detention of Roberto Marrero, chief of staff of Venezuela opposition leader Juan Guaido. Marrero was arrested Thursday during a pre-dawn raid on his home. Venezuelan Interior Minister Nestor Reverol explained the arrest, saying a "large number of weapons" were found in Marrero's house. Pence made the statement in an op-ed piece for the Miami Herald Friday. He warned that the United States would not tolerate Marrero's detention or intimidation of the Guaido government, which the U.S. recognizes as the legitimate government of Venezuela. Pence also called out Cuba, Russia, and China for supporting the administration of embattled president Nicolas Maduro and profiting from it. He said Cuba is allowing its military and intelligence services to train, support, and equip Venezuela's secret police; Russia vetoed a resolution at the United Nations calling for unfettered aid to Venezuela; and China is refusing to grant a visa to economist Ricardo Hausmann to attend the Inter-American Development Bank's annual meeting, which it is hosting. Pence called Maduro a "corrupt dictator" and said those nations are holding Venezuela back in its "steady march towards freedom." "Nicolas Maduro must go," he said. Guaido, head of the National Assembly, has declared himself interim president after disputed elections. The United States and about 50 other countries have recognized him as Venezuela's legitimate leader. But Maduro has vowed to remain, leaving the two men in a struggle for power. U.S. citizens detained Also Friday, the State Department issued a statement of concern for "all U.S. persons" detained in Venezuela. Prison officials reportedly are preventing lawyers and families of detained Americans from seeing or bringing food to the detainees. Six U.S. citizens, executives of the oil company Citgo, have been in jail since November 2017 for alleged money laundering and embezzlement. The two U.S. senators from Texas, home to five of the six detainees, say the six are being held in deteriorating conditions. The legislators also say Venezuelan authorities have denied the detainees a trial and contact with the State Department. Citgo is a U.S.-based refinery and gasoline marketer primarily owned by Venezuela's state-run oil company, PDVSA. President Donald Trump has said all options are on the table for Venezuela, but he has not said under what circumstances he might consider using U.S. military force. A collapse in world energy prices, corruption and failed socialist policies have destroyed oil-rich Venezuela's economy. Food and medicine are scarce, and more than 3 million Venezuelans have fled the country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mueller Concludes Russia Probe, Submits Report By Rob Garver March 22, 2019 The wait is over. But the political parlor game has just begun. Robert Mueller, the special counsel for the Russian investigation, on Friday afternoon delivered his final report to Attorney General William Barr, concluding a wide-ranging probe that has sharply divided Americans and cast a long shadow over President Donald Trump's first two years in office. Barr informed congressional leaders by letter that he had received Mueller's confidential report and that "I may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." The central question that Mueller, a former FBI director, set out to answer: Did Trump or his aides collude with the Russians to undermine Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign in 2016 with embarrassing emails stolen from the Democratic National Committee and Clinton's campaign chairman? Or was Trump merely the fortunate beneficiary of Russia's malicious tactics? And did the president attempt to torpedo the subsequent investigation to protect himself and his political advisers and aides? The probe has led to the indictments of 37 individuals and entities, mostly Russian operatives who remain at large. Seven people, including five former Trump associates, have pleaded guilty and five have been sentenced to prison. Among high-profile cases, former national security adviser Michael Flynn pleaded guilty of lying to the FBI about conversations with the Russian ambassador, and Paul Manafort, the president's former campaign chairman, was recently sentenced for a host of crimes. Ahead of the report's delivery, speculation was rife that the special counsel would bring additional indictments, but there was no additional legal action before the report was released to the Justice Department. With the report's delivery, the Mueller investigation is effectively over, but not the president's legal troubles. In recent months, Mueller has farmed out parts of his investigation to U.S. attorney's offices, including the Southern District of New York, where prosecutors have opened separate investigations into the Trump Organization and other Trump entities. Where the case stands Whether Mueller's report will lead to vindication for the president, his impeachment, or some sort of messy, in-between alternative is unknowable for now. By law, Barr decides what parts if any of the document to disclose to Congress and the public. Trump has repeatedly called the special counsel investigation a "witch hunt" and insists there is no evidence of his collusion with the Russians. While the president has said "I don't mind" if the report is made public, there is likely to be considerable legal wrangling between the White House, the Justice Department, Trump's personal lawyer and Congress before portions or all of the report are released. Justice Department regulations require Mueller to submit a "confidential report" of his findings to the attorney general, and the attorney general to "notify" Congress about it. There are no requirements for Mueller to make his findings public. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement Friday, "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the special counsel's report." Wherever the report takes the United States as a country, understanding where it began and the route it followed will be every bit as important as recognizing the final destination. The beginning The special counsel investigation began on May 17, 2017, with Deputy Attorney General Rod J. Rosenstein's announcement that he had appointed Mueller to take over an ongoing FBI investigation into connections between the Trump campaign and Russian election interference. At the time, Rosenstein stressed that the appointment should not be seen as confirmation that there had actually been any illegal coordination between the Trump campaign and Russian officials, and said that transferring day-to-day control of the investigation to Mueller was meant to assure the public that the inquiry was free of political bias. Mueller was not starting from scratch. The investigation he inherited had begun nearly a year before, on July 31, 2016, after the FBI learned of possible collusion between a Trump campaign adviser and Russia. 'Dirt' on Clinton The tip that initially led investigators to open the case came from Australia's top diplomat in the United Kingdom, who had encountered Trump foreign policy adviser George Papadopoulos at a bar in London months earlier. The diplomat revealed Papadopoulos, while drinking, said he had reason to believe Russian officials were in possession of "dirt" that could damage the candidacy of Clinton, the former secretary of state and front-runner for the Democratic presidential nomination. On July 22, 2016, when the anti-secrecy website WikiLeaks published about 20,000 emails stolen from the Democratic National Committee, the Australian government reached out to the FBI and took the highly unusual step of allowing the official who encountered Papadopoulos High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Alexander Downer to be interviewed by investigators. U.S. intelligence officials were already convinced that Russia was behind the DNC hacking and other efforts to influence the presidential election. But the Downer interview added a new and possibly explosive angle. The diplomat presented the FBI with credible evidence that a Trump campaign official had specific information about Russian interference in the U.S. elections months before that interference was made public. That forced the agency to open an urgent counterintelligence investigation examining whether the Trump campaign was colluding with Russia. An investigation in the public eye By September 2016, intelligence officials had briefed members of Congress on Russian election interference, but it wasn't until after Nov. 8, when Trump unexpectedly captured the Oval Office, that some of the most important details about Russian intentions became public. By that time, further leaks of emails stolen from the account of Clinton campaign manager John Podesta and posted online by WikiLeaks reinforced suspicions that the hacking efforts weren't just meant to sow chaos by Russian President Vladimir Putin's government but were aimed at aiding the Trump campaign. The intelligence community confirmed as much in a closed-door meeting with select lawmakers in November, and would make that conclusion public in early January 2017. Meanwhile, FBI investigators working on the probe were monitoring a large number of interactions between members of the Trump transition team and Russian officials. Within a few weeks of Trump's inauguration, those interactions would cost a prominent member of the Trump administration his job. National security adviser Flynn, a retired three-star Army general, was forced to resign after it was revealed he had lied to the FBI about his communications with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. Flynn's fate led, albeit indirectly, to the Russia investigation being handed over to Mueller in spring 2017. Trump's choice for attorney general, former Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama, recused himself from supervising the Russian investigation because he had served as a senior adviser to the Trump campaign, which posed a conflict of interest. That decision angered Trump, and left the Justice Department's second-in-command, Rosenstein, in charge of the investigation. FBI Director James Comey disclosed the existence of the investigation during a testimony before Congress in March. In private meetings with Comey, Trump demanded "loyalty" from the career law enforcement officer, and pressed him to drop the investigation into Flynn, Comey later testified. Comey refused the president's request. By May, Trump fired Comey, saying later in a TV interview that he did so largely because of the Russia investigation, to which he strongly objected. To insulate the investigation from political interference, Rosenstein on May 17 appointed Mueller as special counsel for the Russia investigation. In his letter appointing Mueller, Rosenstein authorized the special counsel to investigate "any links and/or coordination between the Russian government and individuals associated with the campaign of President Donald Trump; and any matters that arose or may arise directly from the investigation." Mueller's mandate was later expanded to include whether Trump had obstructed justice. Following Comey's firing, Andrew McCabe, then the bureau's acting director, quietly ordered two separate investigations to examine whether Trump had obstructed justice and whether he was acting as an agent of Russia. Stream of indictments, guilty pleas In the months after Mueller took over, the public began to see the fruits of an investigation that had, at that point, been ongoing for nearly a year. In July, Papadopoulos was arrested and charged with lying to the FBI. He later pleaded guilty and received a two-week prison sentence. In October, former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort and his deputy, Rick Gates, were both indicted on conspiracy and money laundering charges dating back to work they had done for Russian-supported politicians in Ukraine years earlier. The indictments had nothing to do with the Trump campaign specifically, but were widely seen as providing prosecutors with leverage over Manafort and Gates, who would likely have been privy to any collusion that might have occurred during the election. The next month, Flynn entered a guilty plea to a charge of lying to the FBI, and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in multiple investigations. In February 2018, Mueller's office unsealed an indictment of 13 Russian nationals and three Russian companies, charging them with conspiracy to interfere with U.S. elections. Months later, 12 other Russians were indicted and charged with hacking the email system of the Democratic National Committee and others. The following months marked a series of major events in the investigation. In late February, Gates pleaded guilty and promised to assist in further investigations. In April, FBI agents raided the home and office of Trump's personal attorney, Michael Cohen. In June, Mueller expanded the charges against Manafort to include witness tampering and obstruction of justice, and also named suspected Russian intelligence officer and Manafort business partner Konstantin Kilimnik in an indictment. By August, Manafort was convicted in the first of two trials for his illicit business practices, and Cohen pleaded guilty of campaign finance violations implicating Trump in at least one crime in a case handed off by Mueller to the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. Notably, though, neither of the convictions touched on Russian election interference. Manafort later pleaded guilty of additional crimes and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in exchange for leniency. He would lose that consideration after Mueller and a federal judge determined that he had continued lying to investigators after striking his plea deal. Cohen pleaded guilty to a further charge of lying to Congress and was sentenced to three years in prison. An agreement and another arrest After more than a year of sparring over whether Trump would consent to be interviewed by the special counsel's office, an agreement was reached in late November 2018 in which the president instead submitted written answers to a series of questions from investigators. In January 2019, Trump associate Roger Stone was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice, five counts of making false statements to Congress, and one count of witness tampering. Investigators had been interested in his potential communication with Russian hackers and their associates during the 2016 election. 'Racist, cheat, con man' During three days of testimony on Capitol Hill in late February, Cohen lashed out at Trump, his former boss. During his opening statement to lawmakers, Cohen called Trump, among other things, a "racist," "cheat" and "con man." He also produced documentary evidence that allegedly proved the president's participation in a criminal conspiracy to conceal illicit campaign contributions in the form of payment of hush money to prevent adult-film star Stormy Daniels from going public with her allegation that she and Trump had a sexual liaison years earlier. Cohen also said, "Questions have been raised about whether I know of direct evidence that Mr. Trump or his campaign colluded with Russia. I do not. I want to be clear." He did say, though, that he had "suspicions" about connections between the Trump family and Russians who worked to influence the election. Changing cast members Today, as the investigation concludes, it is operating under the direction of a different set of presidential appointees. Trump's frustration with Sessions finally boiled over in late 2018, resulting in Sessions' forced resignation. He was replaced on a temporary basis by his chief of staff, Matthew Whitaker. After a delay, Trump appointed William Barr to fill the role. Barr, in his confirmation hearing, told senators he would commit to allowing the Mueller probe to run its course. He was less forthcoming when asked to guarantee that the results would be made public. "My goal will be to provide as much transparency as I can consistent with the law," he said. Masood Farivar contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Relief Aid Reaches Malawi Flood Victims By Lameck Masina March 22, 2019 Relief supplies are arriving for thousands of people in southern Malawi's Cyclone Idai-affected flood areas, where at least 56 people have been killed. Many villages remain cut-off by massive rains that hit Mozambique's coast earlier this month, swamping huge areas of the country and neighboring Malawi and Zimbabwe, killing hundreds. The United Nations says about 1,200 Mozambicans fled across the border to evacuation camps in Malawi, where relief supplies are under strain. Malawi's Department of Disaster Management and Preparedness says nearly a million people in half the country's districts have been impacted by Cyclone Idai. Half of them are children. "The situation in the camps is quite bad," said Andrew Brown, Chief of Communications in Malawi for the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund. "Actually, right now I am in Bangula Admarc camp in Nsanje (district). And there is over 4,000 people here. And there is 3,400 Malawians and actually 1,200 Mozambicans who have crossed the river. Resources are stretched." UNICEF partners - including Doctors Without Borders, the Red Cross, United Purpose, and World Vision - are helping deliver relief supplies. Brown says these include oral re-hydration solution, antibiotics, and insecticide-treated bed nets. "We are also providing water buckets making sure they have access to clean water," he said. "Making sure that children are screened for malnutrition and are treated. We are training and providing temporary teachers to help with increased number of children. And we are creating child friendly spaces and we have recreation kits so that the kids living in these very crowded camps actually have somewhere safe to play." Some hundreds are dead, many more still missing and thousands at risk from massive flooding across the region including Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe caused by Cyclone Idai. UNICEF last week made an urgent appeal for $8 million in funding to meet the immediate and medium-term needs of women and children in flood-affected areas. Authorities say some areas of Malawi, like Nyachikadza and East Bank, are inaccessible due to cut-off roads and washed-away bridges. District Commissioner for Nsanje Reinghard Chavula says getting aid to those in need is a challenge. "We had a help of a helicopter and we were able to send the food through the helicopter but still what we need are the roads to be maintained otherwise we can't have the helicopter all the time," Chavula said. Despite the relief efforts, Chavula says thousands in Malawi are still in dire need of shelter, food and medical assistance. Malawi President Peter Mutharika declared 14 affected districts disaster areas and appealed for help. Aside from aid groups and the U.N., countries offering assistance include Britain, China, Tanzania, and the United States. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by the Press Secretary on Sanctions Against Major Venezuelan Bank March 22, 2019 President Donald J. Trump is committed to preventing Nicolas Maduro and his regime from further stealing Venezuela's resources and wealth for their personal gain, while the people of Venezuela suffer from lack of food, medicine, and reliable power and water. The United States will not tolerate the arrest of peaceful democratic actors, including members of the democratically-elected Venezuelan National Assembly and those Venezuelans working with Interim President Juan Guaido. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Deploys Troops Near India-Pak Border to Safeguard CPEC Projects - Reports Sputnik News 18:09 22.03.2019(updated 18:10 22.03.2019) The move was reportedly prompted by the perceived threats to coal mine projects in the China Pakistan Economic Corridor which have been facing stiff resistance from locals in Pakistan. China is reportedly unhappy over the Pakistani Army's alleged inability to ensure the safety of the project despite repeated assurances. New Delhi (Sputnik): China has deployed a contingent of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to the Thar region of Sindh province in Pakistan which is about 90 kilometres away from Pakistan's international border with India. Indian television channel Zee News quoted a senior intelligence officer saying that Indian forces had noticed the movement of Chinese troops close to the border. "The Border Security Force (of India) deployed at the India-Pakistan border has also noticed the movement of Chinese troops close to the border. It seems that due to the opposition of Chinese projects by locals in Sindh and Balochistan provinces, China has deployed its PLA," the intelligence officer told Zee News. The multi-billion dollar CPEC is a collection of infrastructure projects that are currently under construction throughout Pakistan. Originally valued at 46 billion dollars, the actual cost of the projects has now crossed 62 billion dollars. Pakistan has deployed around 17,000 soldiers to protect the 3000-kilometre-long corridor. Moreover, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa during a visit to China last year had sought to assure Beijing that optimum security would be provided to the project. However, dissatisfied over Pakistan's inability to deal with protests by locals, China decided to take the matter on its own hands. A former Indian Army official is of the view that the development is, however, a matter of concern to India. "Officially, the deployment of troops by China is to protect their own citizens working in Pakistan in various projects and also to secure the safety of the CPEC from local people. But unofficially, it is the commencement of a military base in the interiors of the country (Pakistan). It could also be perceived to be a sort of restriction on India in case it attempts a military option against Pakistan. Although India would never go this deep inside Pakistan, but in the long run, the Chinese PLA could also be deployed much closer to our border. Finally, it signals the growing proximity between China and Pakistan and interdependence. No nation in its right senses would permit such a deployment," Major General (Retired) Harsha Kakar told Sputnik. "In fact, China is eyeing a military base in Pakistan in the long run. China has not invested for the betterment of Pakistan but for its own national interest. But the army and air force bases are major security concerns for India," Major General Kakar added. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DPRK withdraws from joint liaison office with S.Korea in Kaesong: Seoul unification ministry People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 16:00, March 22, 2019 SEOUL, March 22 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) withdrew from the joint liaison office with South Korea in the DPRK's border town of Kaesong, South Korean vice unification minister told an emergency press conference Friday. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump: I'm reversing North Korea sanctions imposed by Treasury Iran Press TV Fri Mar 22, 2019 07:31PM US President Donald Trump has said he is ordering the reversal of recently announced North Korea-related sanctions imposed by the Treasury Department. "It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large-scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea," Trump said on Twitter on Friday. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" Trump did not specify which sanctions he was reversing. The Treasury Department on Thursday or Friday did not announce on North Korea, but the United States on Thursday imposed new penalties on two Chinese shipping companies accused of helping North Korea evade existing sanctions. White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders attributed the decision to Trump's relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un but did not specify which sanctions the president spoke of. "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary," she said. The Treasury Department said on Thursday the firms -- Dalian Haibo International Freight Co Ltd and Liaoning Danxing International Forwarding Co Ltd -- will be banned from the American financial system and can no longer access any US-based assets. It said Individuals and firms that do business with the companies could also face US penalties. The second summit between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim collapsed last month over differences on how far Pyongyang was willing to limit its nuclear program and the degree of US eagerness to ease sanctions. Trump abruptly walked away from the talks and held a press conference shortly afterwards. During the presser, Trump said that "he had to walk away" from the talks because of the North's demands to lift all economic sanctions against Pyongyang as a prerequisite to denuclearization. However, a few hours later, North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho offered a completely different breakdown of the summit, telling reporters in a separate presser that Pyongyang had never asked for the removal of all sanctions, but was only seeking their partial removal. According to a state media report published earlier this month, the people of North Korea blame the US for the collapse of the summit. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China strongly objects to US over North Korea-related sanctions Iran Press TV Fri Mar 22, 2019 02:36PM China has filed "stern representations" with the United States over North Korea-related unilateral sanctions imposed on two Chinese shipping firms. Speaking at a daily news briefing on Friday, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang expressed Beijing's opposition to "any country implementing unilateral or long-arm jurisdiction on Chinese entities according to their domestic laws." "China has already filed stern representations with the United States regarding this issue, urging the US to immediately stop the relevant wrong practices, in order not to affect the cooperation between two countries on the related issues," he added. The spokesman said Beijing had consistently enforced all United Nations (UN) resolutions on North Korea. "As for Chinese enterprises and individuals, if any behavior occurs in violation of UN Security Council resolutions, once verified, China will investigate and prosecute according to our domestic law," Geng said. The US on Thursday imposed sanctions on the two firms Dalian Haibo International Freight Co Ltd and Liaoning Danxing International Forwarding Co Ltd over the alleged evasion of US sanctions imposed on North Korea. The measures were the first such steps since US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's summit collapsed last month. The second summit between the two leaders failed last month over differences on how far Pyongyang was willing to limit its nuclear program and the degree of US eagerness to ease sanctions. While Trump claimed "he had to walk away" from the talks because of the North's demands to lift all economic sanctions against Pyongyang, North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho said his country had never asked for the removal of all sanctions but was only seeking their partial removal. Disappointed by the collapse of the talks, Pyongyang is considering suspending talks on denuclearization with Washington and resuming its nuclear and missile tests, a senior North Korean official said on March 15. The US and China are, meanwhile, involved in a trade dispute unrelated to North Korea. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Lifts Some Sanctions on Pyongyang Because He 'Likes' Kim - White House Sputnik News 20:28 22.03.2019(updated 21:39 22.03.2019) The day before, the US Treasury Department imposed fresh North Korea-related sanctions after Trump walked out of the much-awaited summit with Kim in Hanoi, refusing to lift all non-military punitive measures against Pyongyang. US President Donald Trump withdrew new sanctions against North Korea because of his favourable outlook on North Korean Chairman Kim Jong-un, White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders in a briefing on Friday. "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary," Sanders said told reporters. Shortly before that, the US president tweeted that about his order to withdraw the sanctions. "It was announced today by the US Treasury [Department] that additional large scale sanctions would be added to those already existing sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional sanctions," Trump said via Twitter. The newly introduced sanctions targeted two Chinese shipping companies, and the move quickly triggered opposition from Beijing, which called it illegal. The Treasury imposed the punitive measures just weeks after the second long-awaited meeting between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. However, despite the high expectations, the sides failed to reach an agreement on Pyongyang's denuclearisation. The US president refused to lift all non-military sanctions against Pyongyang a demand by Kim, and walked away from the meeting. According to the US, North Korea vowed to denuclearise some of the areas of the country in return, with no official confirmation following. However, later, addressing journalists after the talks in Vietnam, Trump underlined that he was "open to talking again" to the North Korean leader. At their first summit in Singapore last June, Trump and Kim agreed to denuclearize the Korean peninsula in exchange for freezing US-South Korea military exercises. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea Withdraws from Liaison Office with South Korea By VOA News March 22, 2019 North Korean has withdrawn its liaison office with South Korea. The North notified the South of the abrupt move Friday at the two Koreas' weekly meeting at their joint offices in the Northern city of Kaesong. South Korea Vice Unification Minister Chun Hae-sun told Reuters the North said the move was on "instructions from a higher level." South Korea said in a statement that the North's decision to withdraw from the office was "regrettable," but said the South would continue to work at the offices. The news of the withdrawal follows last month's collapsed meeting in Vietnam between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump. The two leaders squabbled over the U.S. sanctions on North Korea because of the North's nuclear program. The liaison office opened last September as part of a series of steps aimed at reconciliation between the two nations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address France Tests New Anti-Tank Missile in Arctic Conditions Sputnik News 17:28 22.03.2019(updated 17:32 22.03.2019) The French military began deploying the man-portable weapon in 2017, with plans to equip the French Armed Forces with some 400 launchers and 1,950 missiles by 2025. European missile maker MBDA has released a video showing its new 'Missile Moyenne Portee' (MMP) anti-tank weapon in action against a fast-moving light vehicle, an armoured unit and a makeshift fortification in Arctic conditions. The field testing, conducted by the French Army, which took place at the Vidsel firing range in northern Sweden, was undertaken to test the system's effectiveness in temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees, and was deemed "a complete success" by the manufacturer. The MMP is touted as a 5th-generation man-portable anti-tank guided missile which can also be used against enemy strongpoints and improvised armour in French and NATO counterinsurgency operations. In a press statement, MBDA said that testing had "confirmed the robustness of the equipment used in extreme conditions of negative temperatures," and complemented earlier weather testing in extreme heat in Djibouti last year. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Indian PM Modi Capable of Any "Misadventure" to Win Elections - Pakistani PM Sputnik News 19:23 22.03.2019 Narendra Modi's BJP has made terrorism one of its election planks as the party gears up to seek its second five-year term in office. Indian voters are going to elect new members to the lower house of Parliament in seven-phased polling starting 11 April, and results will be declared on 23 May. New Delhi (Sputnik): Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has opined that since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity is rapidly shrinking, he could plan any "misadventure" to remain in power, adding that Pakistan should remain alert till the Indian elections are over. "The armed forces, government and people of Pakistan are ready for any challenge. A fitting response would be given to any aggressive move," Imran Khan said in an informal interaction with Pakistani journalists. The Pakistani PM also indicated that he had intelligence inputs about Indian activities in Balochistan after the 14 February killing of 40 Indian soldiers in Pulwama of India-administered Kashmir. "There are intelligence reports of the enemy's terrorist activity increasing in Balochistan post-Pulwama," Imran Khan added. Balochistan, a province in southwestern Pakistan, has been grappling with a long-drawn armed insurgency by Baloch nationalists. Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party has made terrorism one of the strong planks on which it is hoping to win the upcoming general elections, polling for which will start on 11 April and the declaration of results expected by 23 March. On Friday, opposition leader Sam Pitroda started a controversy by saying "Incidents like Pulwama happen all the time, Pakistani cannot be blamed for that," to which Prime Minister Narendra Modi fired back by describing the opposition Congress party as "terror apologists." "Loyal courtier of Congress' royal dynasty admits what the nation already knew- Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror. This is a New India- we will answer terrorists in a language they understand and with interest!" Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while criticising the Congress party for its alleged inaction on terror during its term. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, another senior BJP leader, also argued that "there is a distinction between the non-state actors and state actors in Pakistan." "Non-state actors are an extended limb of the state actors in Pakistan," Arun Jaitley was quoted by the Indian media as saying. The Indian government's policy was to "fight terrorists when they come to the country [] Now, we go and strike at the point of origin of terror," Jaitley said, adding that this approach of the Indian government has received support from the international community. Tensions between Indian and Pakistan escalated on 14 February when an explosive-laden car rammed into a security convoy on a highway in Pulwama of Jammu and Kashmir, killing 40 soldiers. Subsequently, on 26 February, India launched an airstrike inside Pakistani territory destroying a terror camp in Balakot a claim which Pakistan ardently denies. Both sides have kept their forces on high alert with aerial exchanges and cross-border firing being reported sporadically. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Renewal of UN rights rapporteur's mandate unjust, unwarranted: Iran Iran Press TV Fri Mar 22, 2019 04:30PM Iran has condemned as "unjust and unwarranted" a UN Human Rights Council resolution to renew the mandate of the UN special rapporteur on the human rights situation in the Islamic Republic, saying it was a politically-motivated move by a few countries abusing UN mechanisms. "The appointment of a special rapporteur on Iran is an unjust and unwarranted scheme initiated by certain states in pursuit of their politically-biased attitude against our nation," Esmaeil Baghaei Hamaneh, the permanent representative of Iran to the United Nations Office in Geneva, said on Friday. "It is no accident that those who have a long record of violating human rights and humanitarian law, including by wreaking havoc across our region by flooding it with weapons and by actively supporting terrorism and violent extremism, are among the main backers of this scheme," he added. During its 40th regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council on Friday, the body's members decided to extend the mandate of the special rapporteur for a further period of one year in a Sweden-drafted resolution on the situation of human rights in Iran, adopted by a vote of 22 in favor, seven against and 18 abstentions. In a speech to the meeting, the Swedish representative Veronika Bard claimed that extending the mandate was aimed at improving the human rights situation in Iran amid concerns in this regard. On July 6, 2018, Javaid Rehman was appointed as the third special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran since re-establishment of the mandate. The Iranian diplomat further warned of the adverse consequences of the draft resolution L.15 and its ensuing mandate, saying they "could only contribute to bizarre cliches against Iran." "Rest assured such insincere moves could barely contribute to the promotion and protection of human rights," Baghaei Hamaneh added. He said it is disappointing that Sweden and a few other countries fixate on their "unconstructive and counterproductive" approach against Iran. The Iranian diplomat emphasized that human rights cries of the draft resolution's sponsors lack credit, good faith and moral ground as they remain indifferent to "systematic atrocities perpetrated by their allies in our region on a daily basis." They keep silent about "inhumane and unlawful" sanctions imposed by the United States, which is a violator of human rights on a large scale, he said. "[The issue of] human rights is a common cause. The abuse of the human rights mechanisms against Iran compromises the sense of solidarity as an integral part of this lofty cause," Baghaei Hamaneh said. However, he emphasized that Iranian officials would not be distracted from serving the nation through such "adversarial maneuvers." He said Iran has a resolve to maintain its "constant progress in protection and promotion of human rights" and would also continue its engagement with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and other competent UN human rights mechanisms as well as with responsible states that value interaction and dialog. He urges Sweden to "discontinue its harmful and extremely counterproductive pathway" and calls upon the Human Rights Council members to say No to this draft resolution. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address s U.S. Hits Iran With New Sanctions Over Nuclear, Missile Research Program By RFE/RL March 22, 2019 The United States has hit Tehran with new sanctions, targeting 31 Iranian scientists, technicians, and companies it says have been involved in the country's nuclear and missile research and development programs. In a statement on March 22, the U.S. State Department said the 14 individuals and 17 entities targeted were affiliated with Iran's Organization for Defense Innovation and Research. It said the group, known by its Persian acronym SPND, was "established by Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, the head of the regime's past nuclear weapons program." President Donald Trump's administration "continues to hold the Iranian regime accountable for activities that threaten the region's stability and harm the Iranian people. This includes ensuring that Iran never develops a nuclear weapon," the statement said. The U.S. Treasury Department said that among those targeted was the Shahid Karimi group, which it said works on missile and explosive-related projects for the SPND, and four associated individuals. The government "is taking decisive action against actors at all levels in connection with [the SPND] who have supported the Iranian regime's defense sector," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. "Anyone considering dealing with the Iranian defense industry in general, and SPND in particular, risks professional, personal, and financial isolation," he said. The Treasury Department said the sanctions -- which freeze any U.S. assets of those named and bans U.S. dealings with them -- target current SPND subordinate groups, supporters, front companies, and associated officials. The announcement of new sanctions came as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was in Beirut warning Lebanese officials to curb the influence of the Iran-backed Hizballah movement. Pompeo said that Hizballah is a terrorist organization and should not be allowed to set policies or wield power despite its presence in Lebanon's parliament and government. On March 21, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said that Tehran intended to boost its defense capabilities despite pressure from the United States and its allies to restrict the country's ballistic-missile program. The United States has urged the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Iran over its recent ballistic-missile test and the launches of two satellites, saying they violated Security Council resolutions. On March 7, acting U.S. Ambassador to the UN Jonathan Cohen condemned what he called "Iran's destabilizing activities" in a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Cohen called on Tehran "to cease immediately all activities related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons." The U.S. envoy's statement cited a 2015 UN resolution that "called upon" Iran to refrain for up to eight years from tests of ballistic missiles designed to deliver nuclear weapons. The United States has reimposed sanctions on Iran after withdrawing from a landmark 2015 agreement under which Tehran agreed to restrictions on its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Trump said that Tehran was not living up to the "spirit" of the accord because of its support of militants in the region and for continuing to test nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Tehran has denied it supports terrorist activity and says its missile and nuclear programs are strictly for civilian purposes. With reporting by Reuters and AP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/us-hits-iran- with-new-sanctions-over-nuclear-missile- research-programs/29836684.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 Issues Iran-Linked Sanctions, Citing Alleged Iran's Proliferation of WMD Sputnik News 18:16 22.03.2019(updated 18:44 22.03.2019) WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States has sanctioned 31 people and entities over Iran's alleged proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, a senior administration official told reporters on Friday. "Today the Treasury Department and State Department are announcing that we are designating 14 individuals and 17 entities under sanctions targeting proliferators of weapons of mass destruction and their supporters," the official said. "These 31 entities are linked to Iran's Organization for Defense Innovation and Research, better known by its Persian acronym SPND." The official explained that Washington's latest action targets the technical experts and entities linked to Iran's previous nuclear weapons efforts. "These are entities and people who continue to operate in Iran's defence sector, which means that the intellectual firepower behind the AMAD program very much continues to exist in Iran," the official said. "With this action, we are exposing those people, those entities and we are making them radioactive internationally." The official stressed that everyone who continues to associate with SPND or the designated people risks professional, personal and financial international isolation. He noted that with the latest round of sanctions, the total amount of sanctions against Iran reach 25 sanctions targeting 960 individuals, entities, aircraft and vessels. At the same time, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo vowed in joint remarks with Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil later in the day, that Washington would continue applying extraordinary pressure on Tehran. "The United States will continue to bring unprecedented pressure on Iran until it ceases all malign behaviour, including that which is carried out by Hezbollah," Pompeo stated. US Sanctions Against Iran The United States has already introduced several rounds of sanctions against Tehran. Previously, the punitive measures were lifted under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which provided for the relief of economic sanctions against Tehran in return for Iran's pledge to keep its nuclear program peaceful. However, from the very beginning of his presidency, Donald Trump repeatedly criticised the deal and finally announced Washington to withdraw from it. China, France, Germany, Iran, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the European Union the other signatories to the Iran nuclear deal slammed Washington's withdrawal from the agreement and the reinstatement of sanctions, saying it threatened not only Iran but also countries and companies that continued to do business with Tehran. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Imposition of New U.S. Sanctions in Connection With a Key Iranian Nuclear Organization as Iran Refuses To Answer Questions Related to its Secret Nuclear Archive Fact Sheet Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 Today, the Departments of State and the Treasury designated 31 Iranian entities and individuals under Executive Order (E.O.) 13382, which targets proliferators of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and WMD delivery systems and their supporters. The 14 individuals and 17 entities designated today are all linked to Iran's Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research, also known by its Persian acronym, SPND. Mohsen Fakhrizadeh commonly known as the head of the Amad plan, Iran's pre-2004 nuclear weapons program established SPND in February 2011. According to the IAEA, work on the Amad plan was stopped pursuant to a "halt order" issued by the Iranian leadership in late 2003. However, Iran preserved its Amad-era records, and Fakhrizadeh assumed the principal organizational role as the head of SPND. SPND has employed as many as 1500 individuals including numerous researchers associated with the Amad plan, who continue to carry out dual-use research and development activities, of which aspects are potentially useful for nuclear weapons and nuclear weapons delivery systems. Further, SPND's subordinate organizations spend millions of dollars each year on a broad spectrum of projects. The United States designated SPND under E.O. 13382 in November 2014 for its proliferation-sensitive activities. As the world has learned from the recently-discovered secret Iranian nuclear archive which revealed the names of some of the individuals sanctioned today unanswered questions remain regarding Iran's undisclosed past nuclear-related activities under the Amad plan, including activities related to the development of a nuclear payload for a missile. These designations reaffirm the importance of demanding a full and honest accounting from Iran of its past nuclear weapons related activities, particularly in light of: (1) Iran's decision to maintain a secret nuclear archive; (2) Fakhrizadeh's continued leadership of SPND; (3) SPND scientists' continued proliferation-sensitive research and experiments, and (4) SPND's use of subsidiary organizations, front companies, and procurement agents to acquire dual-use items from third-country suppliers. Our actions today show the flaws in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), why the United States was right to cease participation in it, and the importance of also permanently ensuring Iran is unable to reconstitute any past weapons-related activities in the future. This is why Secretary Pompeo has called for a new comprehensive deal that permanently ends all paths to a nuclear weapon, demands that Iran fully account for its past nuclear weapons activities, submit to unqualified International Atomic Energy Agency access, halt all enrichment activities, and close its heavy water reactor. Today's sanctions continue the U.S. efforts to exert maximum pressure on the Iranian regime to address the threat it poses to international peace and security. In addition to the blocking of any U.S. assets, the sanctioned individuals and entities will be denied access to the U.S. financial system and non-U.S. persons will be exposed to sanctions for providing material support to these targets. Individuals working for Iran's proliferation-related programs including scientists, procurement agents, and technical experts should be aware of the reputational and financial risk they expose themselves to by working for Iran's nuclear program. Iran's next generation of scientists has two paths: they can use their skills pursuing noble work outside of the WMD realm, or they can work for Iranian proliferation organizations and risk being sanctioned. Iranian technical experts should not waste their talent by working in support of Iran's proliferation programs. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address United States Imposes New Nuclear Sanctions on Iran as it Refuses To Answer Questions Related to Its Secret Nuclear Archive Press Statement Robert Palladino Deputy Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 The Trump administration continues to hold the Iranian regime accountable for activities that threaten the region's stability and harm the Iranian people. This includes ensuring that Iran never develops a nuclear weapon. Today, the United States designated 31 Iranian individuals and entities that have contributed to, supported, or are otherwise linked to Iran's nuclear proliferation-sensitive activities. All of the targets designated are linked to Iran's Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (known by its Persian acronym as SPND) an entity established by Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, the head of the regime's past nuclear weapons program. Pursuant to Executive Order 13382, these sanctions target proliferators of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their supporters. In addition to the blocking of any U.S. assets, designated targets will be denied access to the U.S. financial system. The United States strongly condemns Iran's efforts to maintain its band of former nuclear weapons researchers, preserve their work, and continue sensitive procurement activities. Other Iranian individuals who work for the regime's nuclear program should know they risk being sanctioned by the United States NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Senior Administration Officials on Iran Special Briefing Via Teleconference March 22, 2019 MODERATOR: Thank you. Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us this morning. We're pleased to have senior administration officials with us today to discuss actions the government will be taking in regards to Iran. For your reference purposes only and not for reporting, we welcome [Senior Administration Official One]. Hereafter that will be Senior Administration Official One. We are also welcome with us this morning [Senior Administration Official Two], now known as Senior Administration Official Two. They will both have brief remarks for you at the top, and then we'll have some we'll have time for questions. As a reminder, this call is embargoed until the conclusion of the call. So with that, we'll get started with Senior Administration Official Number One. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Good morning. So today, the Treasury Department and State Department are announcing that we are designating 14 individuals and 17 entities under sanctions targeting proliferators of weapons of mass destruction and their supporters. These 31 entities and individuals are linked to Iran's Organization for Defense Innovation and Research, better known by its Persian acronym SPND. In this action, we are designating the technical experts and critical entities linked to Iran's previous nuclear weapons effort. These are entities and people who continue to operate in Iran's defense sector, which means that the intellectual firepower behind the AMAD program very much continues to exist in Iran, and with this action, we're exposing those people, those entities, and we are making them radioactive internationally. Everyone who served SPND and the organizations connected to it, from the working-level staff to senior managers and decision makers, plays a role in the most sensitive part of Iran's defense sector. And anyone who continues to associate with SPND or these individuals risks professional, personal, and financial international isolation. With this action today, this administration will also have issued 25 Iran-related sanctions tranches targeting 960 individuals, entities, aircrafts, and vessels. Just to get some of the background, so FPND SPND was designated by the State Department pursuant to Executive Order 13382 for weapons of mass destruction in August of 2014, and you can find in addition to our press release, you'll find some additional details in that action. Although the underlying organization went through name changes and reorganizations since the early 2000s, the key leaders and subject matter experts have remained in place, meaning individuals who were involved in the AMAD plan continue to be employed by what is now SPND or an SPND subordinate group most notably, the organization's head, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. Several individuals being designated today continue specifically to be employed by SPND or SPND subordinate groups. SPND maintains control over more than a dozen subordinate groups with varying specialties, including radiation, physics, explosives, and missile technology. Taken collectively, the broad spectrum of capabilities within these groups is gravely concerning. This is the type of expertise it takes to develop a nuclear program. Just to give you some examples of the concerning activity that we've highlighted and the expertise that we've highlighted in the press release: You have Mohammad Reza Mehdipur, head of Shahid Karimi Group has been involved in explosion and shock research. Shahid Chamran Group work has included studies on electronic acceleration and research related to pulse power and wave generation. Shahid Fakhar Moghaddam Group has attempted to procure X-ray equipment from foreign suppliers. Mansur Asgari oversaw projects on exploding bridge-wire or EBW detonators. Pulse Niru manufactures pulse power devices and produces particle accelerators. And Reza Ebrahimi was involved in numerous explosive experiments relevant to the development of a nuclear weapon. Equally problematic are SPND's efforts to leverage front companies and cover companies to acquire sophisticated equipment and other technical materials from foreign suppliers. As we have highlighted in action after action over the last several years, the Iranian regime is expert at building out these front companies, pretending like they're from somewhere else, doing something else, and yet taking advantage in many different ways of the international financial system. Just for example, one of the targets being designated today, Pulse Niru, procures advanced technologies from China, Russia, and other foreign suppliers. We are pursuing those actors just as aggressively as the Iranian defense organizations they support. Again, through today's designations, we are holding accountable those who support Iran's defense sector and key personnel who worked for entities involved in Iran's previous nuclear weapons effort, from working-level staff to the most senior managers. Just by way of tangible impact, the individuals being sanctioned will struggle to travel abroad whether for business or personal reasons due to the stigma of being designated under a sanctions program targeting WMD proliferators and their supporters. Our sanctions will restrict their opportunities to conduct research at foreign universities, participate in international conferences, access other collaborative fora, as well, of course, as a freeze freeze in many different ways from the international financial system. This is especially relevant to young professionals in Iran's research and development sector. Any association they should understand with SPND or its subordinate groups makes them radioactive. As with all of our designations, OFAC regulations generally prohibit all dealings by U.S. persons or within the United States, including transactions which transit transit the United States that involve any property or interest in property of blocked or designated persons. And because secondary sanctions also attach here persons that engage in certain transactions with the individuals and entities being designated may themselves be exposed to sanctions. Further, unless an exception applies, any foreign financial institution that knowingly facilitates a significant transaction for any of these individuals or entities being designated could find themselves also subject to U.S. sanctions. I'd now like to turn to [Senior Administration Official Two] to speak more about what these designations mean for our efforts to achieve in our maximum pressure campaign. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: Thank you very much. I don't have a lot to add to that very comprehensive outline of what we're doing today, but I did want to stress the context. And as you all know, of course, for the last few months we have been going to a great deal of trouble to reimpose pressures upon Iran that were lifted under the JCPOA in order to try to incentivize Iran making the right choice and in coming back to the table to ultimately agree to the kind of enduring and better, more comprehensive settlement that Secretary Pompeo outlined in his remarks at the Heritage Foundation back in May. But this particular tranche of sanctions has an additional layer of symbolic importance because it's not just about putting pressure on Iran to reach a diplomatic, negotiated solution. We are highlighting with these steps the continued existence of this SPND organization about which you've been hearing, and this is this is a really very important point. And this is an organization that was set up in effect to keep the personnel and the human capital from the Iranian nuclear weapons program still together and to keep their skills sharp, apparently with some eye to potential future reconstitution. Mohsen Fakhrizadeh is known as the founder of that former illegal nuclear weapons program that was suspended in 2003, and he was put in charge of SPND all along with personnel, in many cases including these individuals sanctioned today, who were involved in that prior weapons program. This is a way for them to keep the gang together, as it were, and to provide a reconstitution capability for that weapons program to the Iranian regime should it choose to use that. And I think that is an extraordinarily important thing to remember because it puts into context all of what Iran has been engaged in here. SPND is in a sense the sort of the bureaucratic survivor and inheritor of that nuclear weapons program, and its continued existence highlights the problem of Iran continuing to try to maintain the option for itself of going back to its old way that we are obviously trying to prevent from occurring. This is a danger that was highlighted by the so-called Iranian nuclear archive, which the Israelis rather daringly spirited out of Iran not too long ago, but is an extraordinarily important point to remember because the very squirreling away of all of those carefully preserved records from that program also goes to this point of reconstitution. And so what you have is essentially a regime that has been trying to prepare for itself what we might think of in the outside world as the perfect storm for proliferation breakout. You have a situation in which, under the JCPOA, Iran would have been permitted in a number of years' time to build, essentially, any enrichment capacity it wanted for uranium and to hold, essentially, any quantity of enriched uranium. At the same time, it had squirreled away those records I referred to from the from its prior weapons program and it has been maintaining the people who worked on that program and keeping them employed in things that have kept those skills or intended to keep those skills sharp. So what you have here is a situation that speaks volumes about Iran's strategic intentions and I think about the importance of the international community coming together to make sure that Iran is forever denied the opportunity to use anything of that sort for ill purposes. And so what we're doing today by highlighting this is to continue to stigmatize SPND and that reconstitution program-in-waiting that it represents, and try to make it as unattractive as possible to be a part of that organization, make it hard for SPND to recruit the next generation of illicit nuclear weapons scientists, and to make it all the more clear that this is an option that is not and cannot be allowed to be made available to Iran, and that it's essential that they come back to the table to reach the kind of solution that the JCPOA did not represent but that we think is indeed possible. And that's why we are putting all these pieces together as part of our pressure campaign. Thanks. MODERATOR: Thank you both very much. We'll now go to questions. OPERATOR: Certainly. Once again, ladies and gentlemen, if you wish to ask a question at this time, please press * then 1 on your phone. You may also remove yourself from that queue at any time by pressing the pound key. One moment, please, for our first question. We'll go to the line of Nick Wadhams, Bloomberg News. Please, go ahead. QUESTION: Hi, thank you. I have two questions. One, in his presentation on the Iran nuclear file, Prime Minister Netanyahu said at the time that illegal nuclear weaponization work continues, and as of 2018 it's being carried out by SPND. So do you share that assessment? It doesn't sound like it from your statement today that SPND continues to do illegal illegal nuclear weaponization work. And second, I'm just trying to (inaudible). MODERATOR: I think we lost Nick on that one. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: I'll try to take the first part. I mean, I think the challenge with SPND is that it is an organization, chunks of which seem to have been created precisely in order to employ people on dual-use things that could easily be repurposed into the very kind of work that was being done before on the weapons program and, as I said before, to in a sense, to keep their skills sharp and available to the Iranian clerical regime. That's the locus of the principal locus of concern here. These some of the projects and the types of work that my colleague from Treasury mentioned do directly translate into weaponization work. That's sort of the point of this. It's this is stuff that is a mobilization capability-in-waiting by virtue of the technologies and the skillsets involved, and we think that that is something that the Iranian regime shouldn't continue to avail itself of. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: And just to add to what [Senior Administration Official Two] said, of course that's the reason this administration has been so concerned about that sunset clause, right. You here you have people, the people who are being designated today, continuing to engage in proliferation-sensitive activities, and it's our very strong view that we have to remain vigilant for any efforts by the Iranian regime to exploit gaps in that deal, to include, among many other things, that intellectual firepower that continues to be there and to include procuring items for the benefit of a designated person. And of course, as I already said, you're seeing front company activity where, just like they do in many other contexts, they're trying to hide behind fronts to procure a variety of different kinds of goods, among other things. QUESTION: Can you guys hear me? Can I ask just my second question? OPERATOR: Still open, Mr. Wadhams. QUESTION: I'm just trying to figure out what you would have these people do or what they can do to get off the list if the work that they were doing ended, I mean, if and if the Intelligence Community assessment is that Iran has not reconstituted its nuclear weapons program. What do they need to do to get off this list? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Look, all I can say there is that's a very high bar. You are talking about people who we have now designated under our weapons of mass destruction executive orders, which is our one one of our most powerful tools because secondary sanctions consequences now apply. So beyond that, I'm not going to comment, but there would be a very, very high bar there. MODERATOR: Thank you. We'll go on to our next question now. OPERATOR: And our -- SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: I would think I would think one of the I would think sorry, this is [Senior Administration Official Two]. Just real quick, I mean, I would think that the relevant message here is actually, in a sense, to other scientists who might be considering employment with SPND or who are in some fashion available or potentially able to make themselves available to the Iranian regime for this kind of work in the future. This is a message that I think that they should be paying attention to and I think [Senior Administration Official One] has flagged that very, very clearly. Message to them should be: Don't do this. This is not a wise thing to be involved in. It is not a this is not something with which any serious, thoughtful, or creditable person should wish to be associated, and it is very clear now that there will be consequences for those who associate themselves with this kind of work. MODERATOR: Thank you. We'll go to the next question now. OPERATOR: Our next question comes from the line of Carol Morello from The Washington Post. Please, go ahead. QUESTION: Hi, thanks for doing this. I understand why you were looking at this through the lens of suspicion, but is it also possible that some of the work they're doing might be for legitimate purposes of energy looking into, say, doing research on energy or defense? And also, has the IAEA been able to have access to this unit? Thank you. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: We don't customarily talk about where we may or may not understand the IAEA to have had access so far. Those issues are usually treated as safeguards, confidential between the host government and the IAEA itself. So I will simply defer to them about what they're willing to say about their investigations. But I think the point of this work, I would imagine from the Iranian perspective, like the very point of a lot of this work that SPND has been engaged in is that it is work for which one can point to one or another various types of non-nuclear weapons-related use. That's the cover for this. And it may well have some utility to them in those very regards, but it also has the additional advantage of being the kind of work that could easily be redirected back into weaponization activity should that choice be made by the regime, and that's why we think this is highly problematic. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: And I would just add, and [Senior Administration Official Two] may be able to speak more to this, but this entity is completely separate from Iran's civil nuclear program. Again, you have to look and there's a lot you can you'll be able to find a lot online about SPND in addition to what we've put into our press releases. But I appreciate the question, but we view this as very very much as distinct. Of course, we have a wide range of other concerns with the activity across the spectrum that the Iranian regime is engaged in. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: Yeah, and I think it's not -- MODERATOR: Thank you. We'll go to the next question. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: Sorry, just let me just add a little bit more additional gloss too. I mean, I think it is not at all insignificant that Mohsen Fakhrizadeh is the head of this organization. This is the fellow who was aiming to be the father of the Iranian nuclear bomb, and the fact that he has been put in charge of this and employs so many of the same people who worked for him in doing exactly that effort tells you sort of what you need to know. It's as if we had so it's as if some evil version of Robert Oppenheimer had been kept in charge of keeping the Manhattan Project crew together for years afterwards pretending that they were or even legitimately working on other things but being very carefully kept together in order to be able to be called upon to get back to their original line of work. That tells you what you need to know. This is not your run-of-the-mill defense organization; this is the reconstitution weapons program waiting for an opportunity to be restarted. MODERATOR: All right. We'll go to the next question. OPERATOR: We have the next question from the line of Andrea Mitchell from NBC. Please, go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you very much. I'm wondering what effect you think this will have internationally given the fact that the IAEA has given Iran a clean bill of health and that our European allies as recently as the Munich conference and the Warsaw conference disagree with our posture towards Iran. How are these sanctions going to stop what you allege Iran is doing? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: Well, as we were outlining before, I think we hope that this will make it more difficult for Iran to continue to attract the talent it needs to keep this sort of capability in waiting going indefinitely, and that's certainly a positive step. And I think when it comes to some of these issues, you, I suspect, would find that the that our European partners do not disagree significantly with us. We do have some disagreements about what one should do about the problem, but disagreement there is no disagreement over the fundamental problem of the potential for Iran to reconstitute its weapons program. There is no disagreement over the idea that what the JCPOA actually permits is actually not a good thing and should not it should be an objective of all of us to not get to that point. I mean, the agreement, as it was drafted, would have allowed the Iranians to build up an enrichment capacity and a stockpile of enriched uranium that would allow it to dramatically shorten the so-called breakout time that it would take for it to get to a nuclear weapon. That breakout time is currently assessed at approximately a year or so, about 12 months, and with capabilities that the deal would allow Iran to have in some years' time, that breakout time would shorten dangerously. And having that short breakout time for the material to produce a weapon, with people from SPND who have been waiting around and practicing their tasks, in effect waiting for the opportunity to put them back into service in a weapons program, just goes to the point of how critical it is to prevent that breakout time from shrinking. I think we do not have disagreement with our European partners on the importance of doing that. We have some tactical disagreements about exactly how the best way is in the short term to work to achieve that, but over the strategic objective of making sure that Iran never has the availability of that option. You will not find us, I think, in any form of disagreement at all. MODERATOR: All right, we can go on to the next question. OPERATOR: Your next question from the line of Shaun Tandon, AFP. Please, go ahead. QUESTION: Hi, thanks for doing this call. I wanted to follow up on Nick's question a little bit. As you were mentioning that these sanctions relate to past activity of the SPND and concerns about potential future activity, for the individuals who are actually sanctioned now, what should the message be to them, not to people who might join but to them? And how can they actually get off the sanctions list? I mean, would the does the SPND, does it need to take itself out of existence? What could the actually the people who are actually sanctioned do at this point? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Look, I mean, first of all, the messaging, the strong messaging here, is to the international community to not work with these people, not be fooled by them, not be fooled by their front companies, not allow them to participate in international conferences among many other things. The other strong messaging is to those again, what I said, those Iranian researchers, scientists in Iran, don't associate with the SPND because there will be very severe consequences in our sanctions program. And look, as a general matter, people need to stop working with SPND. It is not what you should want to be affiliated with or associated with. And for those who have not been specifically identified today, they need to get out of the program. They need to distance themselves, because if they continue, there will be severe consequences. MODERATOR: All right, we'll go to the next question. OPERATOR: The next question from the line of Ali Rogin, PBS NewsHour. Please, go ahead. QUESTION: I wanted to know if you could provide any update on the administration's contemplating designating the Iran Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. And what do you say to those entities within the U.S. Government that are concerned about that potential move? With the understanding that this is somewhat ancillary to the topic of this call and to your portfolio, I appreciate your consideration of this question. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: I'm not sure what we have for you on that at this point, I'm afraid. That is probably best addressed to others. MODERATOR: We'll go to the next question. OPERATOR: Thank you. Next question from the line of Laura Rozen from Al-Monitor. Please, go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you for doing this. [Senior Administration Official Two], you talked about wanting Iran to make the right choice and come back to the table to negotiate. Can you update us on any efforts to reach out to the Iranians or their interest in coming back to the table? And secondly, Iran is still in the agreement, the other countries are still upholding it, so all these sunsets that you're talking about are still going to happen; is that correct? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: I'm not in a position to talk about any particular diplomatic overtures. That's something on which, of course you won't be surprised to know that we don't tend to talk much one way or the other. It tends to make them less useful where they exist, and one wouldn't want to create false promises or false hopes either if they don't exist. So we're not we don't have anything to say about that. I would certainly point you to the fact that we have been gradually building an increasing amount of international support for insisting that Iran do make that right choice. We are certainly not as far along the curve as we are with the North Koreans in terms of the actual engagements. But in some respect we are putting the same kinds of pressures on Iran with the hope of enticing a return to the table. That return to the table is further along in the North Korean context, but we hope that we will be soon working to come up with the kind of negotiated solution that Secretary Pompeo has referred to. What was the second part? My apologies. MODERATOR: We'll have to move on to the last question now. OPERATOR: Thank you. The next question from the line of Joel Gehrke from The Washington Examiner. Please, go ahead. QUESTION: Hi, thanks for doing this. You mentioned earlier that individuals who are sanctioned today could potentially get out of the program, and you wanted to discourage other participation with SPND. But that's obviously difficult to verify, given the number of rebrandings and reorganizations that some of these subordinate entities have gone through. Would they would some of these sanctioned individuals need to leave the country to get off the sanctions list? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: I'm just not going to I'm not going to get into what criteria we may at this point, we may we would apply in that context. There's a longstanding administrative process that, as a general matter that is reflected through our sanctions program. But beyond that, I have nothing else to comment. MODERATOR: All right SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: It's not really an answer to your question, but let me just also say to point out that some of the names that we are sanctioning today are known to us initially coming out of the Iranian archive of material from their weapons program, and these are names that sort of came to our attention through that and that we have been, of course, worked to validate through our own sanctions process and procedures. But this is an example of how we are using this sort of ongoing development of knowledge about Iran's malign activities, both past and present, to ensure that it faces the kind of pressure that it needs to face. We are leveraging information from that archive into the present day to make sure that no one in the future has to be able to have these discussions about Iranian reconstitution efforts and so forth. So but this is a concrete example of how we're using the information in that archive as a piece of our policy toolset in the present day. MODERATOR: Thank you, everyone, for joining us. The embargo on this call is now lifted. As a reminder, it's on background to senior administration officials. You are now free to use that and we wish you a good Friday. Thank you very much. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Government Sanctions Organizations and Individuals in Connection with an Iranian Defense Entity Linked to Iran's Previous Nuclear Weapons Effort U.S. Department of the Treasury March 22, 2019 WASHINGTON The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), together with the U.S. Department of State, designated 14 individuals and 17 entities today in connection with Iran's Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND), which has provided support to designated Iranian defense entities and whose key personnel played a central role in the Iranian regime's past nuclear weapons effort. This action targets current SPND subordinate groups, supporters, front companies, and associated officials. "The U.S. government is taking decisive action against actors at all levels in connection with Iran's Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND) who have supported the Iranian regime's defense sector," said Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin. "The United States will continue applying maximum pressure to the Iranian regime, using all economic tools to prevent Iran from developing weapons of mass destruction. Anyone considering dealing with the Iranian defense industry in general, and SPND in particular, risks professional, personal, and financial isolation." The Department of State sanctioned SPND on August 29, 2014 pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13382 for engaging in or attempting to engage in activities that have materially contributed to, or posed a risk of materially contributing to, the proliferation of WMD or their means of delivery. E.O. 13382 provides authority to impose sanctions on proliferators of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery and supporters. Under its "Amad Plan," Iran procured materials and equipment, and conducted a variety of activities, relevant to the development of a nuclear explosive device. Iran also re-engineered a ballistic missile's reentry vehicle for probable use as a delivery system for a nuclear weapon. Scientists have engaged in proliferation-sensitive research and experiments on behalf of SPND organizations, which spend millions of dollars each year on a broad spectrum of defense-related projects. Shahid Karimi Group OFAC designated Shahid Karimi Group, an SPND subordinate group that works on missile and explosives-related projects for SPND, and four associated individuals. Shahid Karimi Group has conducted weapons systems, materials, and explosion research on behalf of SPND. OFAC designated Shahid Karimi Group pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, SPND. Mohammad Reza Mehdipur is head of Shahid Karimi Group, and has been involved in explosion and shock research conducted on behalf of SPND. Akbar Motallebizadeh previously was head of Shahid Karimi Group, where he supervised SPND projects. Akbar Motallebizadeh also has served as an advisor to Mohsen Fakhrizadeh (Fakhrizadeh), the head of SPND. Fakhrizadeh was designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 on July 8, 2008. Jalal Emami Gharah Hajjlu was a weapons systems researcher at Shahid Karimi Group. Jalal Emami Gharah Hajjlu also served as a senior expert and quality control manager for the Amad Plan. Sa'id Borji is an explosives and metals expert for SPND's Shahid Karimi Group who has assisted SPND's efforts to procure equipment used for containing explosions. OFAC designated Mohammad Reza Mehdipur pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Shahid Karimi Group. OFAC also designated Akbar Motallebizadeh, Jalal Emami Gharah Hajjlu, and Sa'id Borji pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, Shahid Karimi Group. Shahid Chamran Group Shahid Chamran Group's work has included studies on electron acceleration and mass transfer. This SPND subordinate group also has conducted research for SPND related to electromagnetics, pulse power, and wave generation. Sayyed Asghar Hashemitabar has served as a managing expert at Shahid Chamran Group, where he has focused on pulse power research. OFAC designated Shahid Chamran Group pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by SPND. OFAC designated Sayyed Asghar Hashemitabar pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Shahid Chamran Group. Shahid Fakhar Moghaddam Group OFAC designated SPND subordinate group Shahid Fakhar Moghaddam Group (Shahid Fakhar) and two associated individuals. Shahid Fakhar has worked on projects to construct explosion simulators and built radiation and neutron monitoring and detection systems. Additionally, the entity helped SPND establish an institute dedicated to physics-related calculations. Ruhollah Ghaderi Barmi (Ghaderi) is a director at Shahid Fakhar, where he oversees manufacturing and production. Ghaderi has been involved in Shahid Fakhar's attempts to procure X-ray equipment from foreign suppliers. Mohammad Javad Safari (Safari) is a calculations and measurement expert at Shahid Fakhar. OFAC designated Shahid Fakhar Moghaddam Group pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, SPND. OFAC designated Ruhollah Ghaderi Barmi pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Shahid Fakhar Moghaddam Group. OFAC designated Mohammad Javad Safari pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, Shahid Fakhar Moghaddam Group. Additional SPND Subordinate Groups Designated Today OFAC designated an additional 10 entities whose research and activities benefit SPND. Sheikh Baha'i Science and Technology Research Center works on radiation and applied physics for SPND. Shahid Avini Group has conducted studies on nuclear terrorism, distinguishing sources of natural and manmade incidents, and treaties and conventions governing the use and testing of various WMD. Shahid Baba'i Group designs high-powered lasers, and also researches photonics and semiconductors under the auspices of SPND. Shahid Movahhed Danesh Group has assisted SPND with laser and photonics research. Abu Reihan Group has provided support for SPND projects related to satellites and plasma technology, and worked on SPND's missile projects. Shahid Kazemi Group conducts acoustics-related research for SPND. Shahid Shokri Science and Technology Research Group is an SPND subsidiary that focuses on radiation exposure. Heidar Karar Research Group works on cyber defense systems for SPND. Its computer network exploitation operators have targeted U.S. individuals and companies. Shahid Zeinoddin Group has worked on biological research and developing biotechnologies for SPND. Shahid Zeinoddin Group has studied treating various poisonings, drug delivery methods, and biological defense systems on behalf of SPND as well. Bu Ali Group's undertakings have ranged from building bioreactors to conducting lab work on DNA sequencing for SPND. Sadra Research Center specializes in cognitive sciences and has studied ways to mentally improve Iran's elite military personnel. OFAC designated Shahid Avini Group pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, SPND. OFAC designated Sheikh Baha'i Science and Technology Research Center, Shahid Baba'i Group, Shahid Kazemi Group, Shahid Shokri Science and Technology Research Group, Heidar Karar Research Group, Bu Ali Group, and Sadra Research Center pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by SPND. OFAC designated Shahid Movahhed Danesh Group, Abu Reihan Group, and Shahid Zeinoddin Group pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or good or services in support of, SPND. Additional Individuals Designated Today OFAC also designated Gholam Reza Eta'ati (Eta'ati) and Mansur Asgari pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, SPND. Eta'ati, who is an expert in applied physics, is an SPND senior manager who oversees some of SPND's most sensitive projects. Mansur Asgari has served as head of SPND's Research and Technology Department. Mansur Asgari previously was a manager under the Amad Plan, overseeing projects focused on explosives and exploding bridge-wire (EBW) detonators. The U.S. Department of State designated Reza Ebrahimi (Ebrahimi) pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having engaged, or attempted to engage, in activities or transactions that have materially contributed to, or pose a risk of materially contributing to, the proliferation of WMD or their means of delivery (including missiles capable of delivering such weapons), including any efforts to manufacture, acquire, possess, develop, transport, transfer or use such items, for Iran, a foreign country of proliferation concern. Ebrahimi served as head of Iran's Aerospace Research Institute (ARI), leading the development of the Kavoshgar, a space launch vehicle based on the Shahab-3 ballistic missile. Ebrahimi also worked on Iran's Amad Plan, where he was involved in numerous explosive experiments relevant to the development of a nuclear weapon. SPND Front and Cover Companies OFAC also designated today three key SPND front and cover companies, and four of their senior officials. Pulse Niru has provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or good or services in support of, SPND. Pulse Niru is a Tehran-based company that designs and manufactures pulse power devices, develops technology for controlled fusion, and produces particle accelerators. Pulse Niru also has sought to procure equipment for SPND. Pulse Niru procures some equipment and advanced technologies from Chinese, Russian, and other foreign suppliers. Mohammad Mahdi Da'emi Attaran (Attaran) is a manager and senior executive at Pulse Niru. A pulsed power expert, Attaran has spent over a decade working for Pulse Niru. He was directly involved in Pulse Niru's efforts to supply and provide specialized services to SPND. Attaran also has lent his expertise to Iran's Center for Innovation and Technology Cooperation (CITC). CITC was designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 on July 12, 2012. CITC is positioned to support a range of Iran's WMD and military procurement objectives, and is assessed to facilitate procurement and technology transfers from the science community to the military. Mohsen Shafa'i is Pulse Niru's managing director and has worked on the design, testing, and production of new technologies at Pulse Niru. OFAC designated Mohammad Mahdi Da'emi Attaran and Mohsen Shafa'i pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Pulse Niru. Iranian company Kimiya Pakhsh Shargh (KPS) is owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, SPND. KPS is subordinate to SPND and takes directions from senior SPND officials. KPS procures materials from foreign suppliers, such as radioisotopes. While such radioisotopes have legitimate medical applications, they also can be used in processes that test and grade welds on pressurized piping and vessels, machined parts, high-capacity storage containers, and concrete. The same materials also can be employed to identify structural irregularities caused by mechanical damage and corrosion, and to detect defects in metal castings. Mehdi Masoumian (Masoumian), who is an SPND employee, serves as the managing director of KPS. Mohammad Hossein Haghighian's (Haghighian's) responsibilities as KPS's commercial manager include handling customs and regulatory processes for importing goods. Haghighian also oversees technical inspections of behalf of KPS. OFAC designated Masoumian and Haghighian pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, SPND. Paradise Medical Pioneers Company (PMP) is owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, SPND. PMP is a cover company that researches and produces composites, steels, polymers, and other materials for customers including SPND. PMP is administratively subordinate to SPND, and senior SPND officials, including SPND head Fakhrizadeh, hold various positions within the company. Sanctions Implications As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of these targets that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons must be blocked and reported to OFAC. OFAC's regulations generally prohibit all dealings by U.S. persons or within the United States (including transactions transiting the United States) that involve any property or interests in property of blocked or designated persons. In addition, persons that engage in certain transactions with the individuals and entities designated today may themselves be exposed to sanctions or subject to an enforcement action. Furthermore, unless an exception applies, any foreign financial institution that knowingly facilitates a significant transactions for any of the individuals or entities designated today could be subject to U.S. sanctions. Lastly, today's action serves as a warning to individuals and entities considering dealing with the Iranian regime's defense sector in general, and SPND in particular: by engaging in sanctionable activity with designated Iranian persons, you risk professional, personal, and financial isolation. For identifying information on the entities and individual sanctioned today, click here . #### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address World countries blast US on Golan, Syria vows to liberate Israeli occupied territory Iran Press TV Fri Mar 22, 2019 08:12AM The Arab League, Russia, Iran and Turkey have strongly warned the US after President Donald Trump declared Thursday that he will recognize Syria's Golan Heights as Israeli territory. The strategic highlands have been under the Israeli occupation since 1967, but Trump's abrupt declaration a day after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to Israel brings the dispute to a boiling point. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday Trump's statement has brought the region to the edge of a new crisis. In a speech at a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, Erdogan said: "We cannot allow the legitimization of the occupation of the Golan Heights." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif expressed shock at Trump's plan. "All shocked by @realDonaldTrump continuing to try to give what is not his to racist Israel: first Al-Quds & now Golan" Zarif tweeted from Istanbul where he was attending the emergency OIC meeting. "This illegal and unacceptable recognition does not change the fact that it belongs to Syria," Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi said in Tehran. "The Zionist regime, as an occupying regime, has no sovereignty over any Islamic and Arab lands and its occupation (of the Golan) and acts of violation should be swiftly brought to an end," he said. Qassemi said the only solution to the Golan dispute is to end the Israeli occupation. He said Trump's "personal and rash decisions reveal yet another reality of US policies that are dangerous to the entire world, and will particularly push this volatile region to successive crises." The Islamic Republic, he said, "will closely monitor all future developments in the region and continue its cooperation and consultations with the Syrian government and other countries to take appropriate measures." Syria, which declared last month that it was ready to go to another war with Israel for the Golan, condemned Trump's pledge in a statement issued by its foreign ministry on Friday. "The American position towards Syria's occupied Golan Heights clearly reflects the United States' contempt for international legitimacy and its flagrant violation of international law," it said. "The irresponsible remarks by Trump, the US president, one more time demonstrated the US' blind and relentless support for the Israeli occupying regime and its hostile acts," it added. Trump's announcement came ahead of a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the United States next week. In a tweet that caught many by surprise, Trump said the time had come for the United States to take the step, which Netanyahu warmly welcomed as a "miracle" on the Jewish holiday of Purim. "After 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel's Sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability!" Trump tweeted. The US would be the first country to recognize the annexation, which the rest of the international community regards as Syria territory occupied by Israel. The Syrian statement on Friday said Washington's stance is a threat to global peace and security. "The statements of the US president and his administration on the occupied Syrian Golan will never change the fact that the Golan was and will remain Arab and Syrian," it said. "The Syrian nation is more determined to liberate this precious piece of Syrian national land through all available means," it added. Arab League chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit said the 22-member organization "fully supports Syria's right for its occupied territory." The Golan Heights are "occupied territory" belonging to Syria under international law and the resolutions of the United Nations and the UN Security Council, he stressed. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu also condemned the US president's declaration, stressing that Ankara supports Syria's territorial integrity. "Attempts by the US to legitimize Israel's actions against international law will only lead to more violence and pain in the region," he wrote in a tweet late Thursday. A member of the Russian Federation Council also slammed Trump's pledge, saying "Russia will never recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights." Oleg Morozov said Trump's move is aimed at splitting the Arab world and undermine Syria and its "partnership with Russia." Last week, in its annual human rights report, the US State Department dropped the phrase "Israeli-occupied" from the Golan Heights section, instead calling it "Israeli-controlled." Netanyahu has for weeks been stepping up longstanding Israeli requests for the US and others to recognize the occupied Golan as Israeli territory. Trump's announcement came as Pompeo was wrapping up a two-day trip to Jerusalem al-Quds during which he made a controversial visit to the Buraq Wall, called by Israel as the Wailing Wall, in the Old City. The visit made him the highest-ranking US official to visit the site with any Israeli leader and appeared to further signal the Trump administration's support for Israel's control of the contested city. In December 2017, Trump formally recognized Jerusalem al-Quds as the so-called capital of Israel and later moved the American embassy from Tel Aviv to the holy city which Palestinians view as the capital of their future state. Pompeo's visit also appeared to signal Trump's support for Netanyahu who is facing a tough challenge in the upcoming elections and reeling from a series of corruption scandals. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU Position On Golan Heights 'Unchanged' Despite Trump Comment March 22, 2019 European Council President Donald Tusk has said the EU is holding its line on the Golan Heights despite U.S. President Donald Trump's statement that Israeli sovereignty over the territory should be recognized by Washington. "The EU's position is well-known and has not changed," Tusk told a news conference on March 22 when asked to comment on Trump's remarks. The European Union does not recognize Israeli sovereignty over the area, which it captured from Syria in 1967. Turkey, Iran, and Syria have condemned Trump's statement, while Russia voiced hope Trump's comment will remain "just a call." Trump said it was time that the United States "fully" recognized Israel's sovereignty over the disputed Golan Heights, which it captured from Syria in 1967. The Golan Heights is of "critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and regional stability," Trump tweeted on March 21. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on March 22 that Trump's move had brought the region to the edge of a new crisis. "We cannot allow the legitimization of the occupation of the Golan Heights," Erdogan told a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Syria's Foreign Ministry said in a statement carried by state news agency SANA that Damascus "condemns in the strongest terms the irresponsible statements of [Trump] regarding the occupied Syrian Golan." Trump's remark "affirms the blind bias of the United States to the Zionist occupation entity and its unlimited support for aggressive behavior," SANA added. Syria and Israel have fought several direct and proxy wars over the past decades and have never made a peace deal. Iran, one of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's main military backers, condemned Trump's remark as dangerous. "Trump's personal and ill-considered decision is dangerous and will only lead to further crises in the Middle East," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said on March 22. The Kremlin voiced hope that Trump's statement would not be enacted. "It is just a call for now. Let's hope it will remain a call," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a conference call. Israel captured the 1,800-square-kilometer Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 Six-Day War. In 1981, Israel extended its laws to the region, effectively annexing it, in a move that has not been recognized by the international community. Based on reporting by AP and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/turkey-iran-syria- condemn-trump-s-call-to-endorse-israel-s-control -of-golan-heights/29836091.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 UN Reiterates Golan Heights Status Remains Same After Trump's Call Sputnik News 19:20 22.03.2019(updated 19:49 22.03.2019) After Thursday's tweet by US President Donald Trump, in which he called to recognise the disputed territory of the Golan Heights, numerous European and Middle East countries voiced their strong opposition to the move. The United Nations has reiterated its position on the sovereignty of the Golan Heights, insisting that the status of the area has not changed after US Donald Trump's call to recognise it as Israeli territory. In particular, the UN does not recognise the annexation of the territory that has been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Six-Day War and formally annexed in 1981. Meanwhile, Reuters reports, citing sources, that the Trump administration is working on a document to formally recognise the Golan Heights as Israeli territory. As the news agency informs, the US president might sign it next week during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the White House. Netanyahu is campaigning for reelection next month while fighting corruption charges at home. Trump's Tweet Sparks Controversy Trump's call has prompted strong opposition from European and Middle Eastern countries. France bashed the move, recalling that it contradicts international law, while Germany noted that the national borders should be changed through peaceful means. A similar position has been voiced by Russia, Iran, Palestine and Egypt, with some of the states stressing that the territory falls under Syria's sovereignty. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syrian Envoy to UN Calls Pentagon's Announcement of Victory Over Daesh "Bluff" Sputnik News 19:10 22.03.2019(updated 21:29 22.03.2019) On Friday, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told reporters that the Daesh* terror group had been completely eliminated in Syria. Reacting to the White House's official statement, the Syrian envoy to the UN called the Pentagon's announcement of victory over Daesh a 'bluff'. The envoy's response comes shortly after a Sputnik source in the Russian Foreign Ministry said that the US announcement about the complete elimination of Daesh is not very convincing. In addition, later in the day, Reuters reported, citing the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) as saying that "heavy fighting" is still ongoing at Baghuz in Eastern Syria "to finish off whatever remains" of Daesh. This comes after earlier in the day White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders declared that the entire territory of Syria has been "100 per cent eliminated" from Daesh* terrorists. She also noted that President Donald Trump was briefed on the issue by US Acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan while the American leader was on his way to Florida on Air Force One. On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump said that the final terrorist group's enclave would be "gone by tonight." Later, reports claimed that the US-backed SDF "liberated all of Baghouz from the Daesh mercenaries". However, the next day, Reuters reported citing a Syrian Democratic Forces' authority that the Kurdish-led group rejected claims that it captured the last Daesh stronghold in Syria. The Syrian village of Baghouz was considered the last Daesh stronghold in the Arab Republic where the Kurdish-led SDF had been repeatedly conducting operations and the US-led coalition conducting bombings. *Daesh, also known as ISIS, ISIL, Islamic State is a terrorist group banned in Russia Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address France Responds to Trump: Israeli Sovereignty Over Golans Against Int'l Law Sputnik News 14:53 22.03.2019(updated 18:31 22.03.2019) Earlier, US President Donald Trump wrote on Twitter that now was the time for the US to recognize the Golan Heights as part of Israel. According to him, the time has come to take such a step in the interests of the security of Israel and the region as a whole. "The Golan is a territory occupied by Israel since 1967. France does not recognise the Israeli annexation of 1981," the Fench Foreign Ministry said in a daily briefing, adding that UN Security Council resolutions had recognised the annexation as illegal. READ MORE: Trump Mulled Recognising Golan Heights as Israel's Territory for Long Time The same stance has been voiced by a German government spokeswoman, who said that the Golan Heights is a Syrian territory occupied by Israel. "If national borders should be changed it must be done through peaceful means between all those involved," spokeswoman Ulrike Demmer said. "The government rejects unilateral steps," he added. Earlier in the day, the European Union stressed that it does not recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. "The position of the EU has not changed," an EU spokeswoman said. "The European Union, in line with international law, does not recognise Israel's sovereignty over the territories occupied by Israel since June 1967, including the Golan Heights and does not consider them to be part of Israel's territory." Earlier in the day, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has expressed the position of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states, condemning the Trump's statement on the necessity to fully recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. The Golan Heights, considered by Syria to be a part of its territory, was occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War. It was not until 1981 that Tel Aviv passed legislation formally annexing the area. The United Nations has not recognised the annexation. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Slams Trump's Announcement on Golan as Direct Violation of Int'l Law Sputnik News 09:36 22.03.2019(updated 12:42 22.03.2019) US allies in the Middle East have reaffirmed their position on the Golan Heights, with the Arab League emphasising that it fully supports Syria's sovereignty over the territory annexed by Israel. Spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova, commenting on US President Donald Trump's statement about the Golan Heights, said that changing the status of the Golan Heights in order to bypass the UN Security Council constituted a direct violation of UN decisions. "Russia, as you know, takes a principled position on the issue of the Syrian Arab Republic's ownership of the Golan Heights. This is confirmed by UN Security Council Resolution 497 of 1981. Our assessment of the unlawful nature of Israel's decision to extend its sovereignty to the Golan Heights remains unchanged, " Zakharova said. "Changing the status of the Golan Heights bypassing the Security Council is in direct violation of UN decisions," she added. The Kremlin has said Friday that the recent statement by US President Donald Trump on the necessity to fully recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights hinders the Middle East settlement and expressed hope that the relevant decision will not be taken. "Undoubtedly, such calls may significantly destabilize the already-tense situation in the Middle East. In any case, the idea per se by no means contributes to the Middle East settlement, quite the opposite," Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. "In any case, so far it is only a call. We hope that it will remain this way," Peskov added Trump previously wrote on Twitter that now was the time for the US to recognize the Golan Heights as part of Israel. According to him, the time has come to take such a step in the interests of the security of Israel and the region as a whole. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to Trump's statement by thanking the US president for his support. Netanyahu on Thursday made a phone call to US President Donald Trump to express gratitude for the statement. The Golan Heights, considered by Syria to be a part of its territory, was occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War. It was not until 1981 that Tel Aviv passed legislation formally annexing the area. The United Nations has not recognised the annexation. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syria 'Determined' to Recover Israeli-Occupied Golan Heights, Lambasts Trump Sputnik News 08:46 22.03.2019(updated 10:12 22.03.2019) On Thursday, US President Donald Trump tweeted that 52 years on, it is time for his country "to fully recognise Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights". The Syrian Foreign Ministry has condemned US President Trump's comments on the Golan Heights as "irresponsible", adding that the Syrian people are determined to recover the area through "all available means", Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reports. The Ministry pointed out that Trump's statement "confirms the US's blind commitment to Israel and support for its aggressive behaviour". "It became clear to the international community that the United States and their reckless policies, which are dominated by arrogance and hegemonic ambitions, are a major factor in exacerbating the situation in the global arena and threaten peace and stability," the Ministry underscored. It also noted that the US clearly violates international law and a number of UN resolutions, in particular, Resolution 497, in which Israel's intentions to establish its laws in the Golan Heights are considered invalid and illegal. Iran has also criticised what it described as Trump's "illegal" and "unacceptable" remarks on the Golan Heights. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Moscow's position on the matter remains unchanged and that "changing the status of the Golan Heights by bypassing the Security Council is a direct violation of UN decisions". The statement comes after Trump tweeted on Thursday that "after 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognise Israel's Sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and regional stability." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for his part, thanked Trump for "boldly" recognising Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights "at a time when Iran seeks to use Syria as a platform to destroy Israel". US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in turn, claimed during his visit to Jerusalem on Thursday that President Trump had been sent by God to Earth in order to save Israel. The remarks followed US Senator Lindsey Graham telling Netanyahu earlier this month that he will push for Washington to formally recognise the Golan Heights as part of Israel. A strategic area covering some 1,200 square kilometres, the Golan Heights were occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War. Netanyahu has repeatedly underlined that the Jewish state would not meet Syria's demands that it retreat to the 1967 lines because they were "indefensible", and that the Golan Heights would "remain in the hands of Israel forever". Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address World Leaders Blast Trump's Call to Recognize Israel's Sovereignty Over Golan Heights By VOA News March 22, 2019 World leaders are criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement that the United States will recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Syria's foreign ministry said Friday Trump's announcement is "irresponsible" and does not change "the fact that the Golan was and will remain Arab and Syrian." A foreign ministry source told Syria's official news agency SANA the announcement "clearly reflects the United States' contempt for international legitimacy and its flagrant violation of U.S. law." The Golan Heights were captured by Israel in 1967's Six-Day War and have been controlled by Israel since then. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Trump's announcement has brought the region "to the brink of a new crisis and new tensions." Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Istanbul that Israel's "systematic attacks on Al-Aqsa Mosque for years" is proof Israel has no respect for beliefs and holy places or tolerance for living together." Cavusoglu added that "U.S. President Donald Trump's unacceptable comments on the Golan Heights feed this warped mentality." Arab League chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit also criticized the announcement, saying, "No country, no matter how important it is, can make such a decision." The Gulf Cooperation Council, a group of six Arab monarchies, said Trump's statement "will not change the reality that ... the Arab Golan Heights is Syrian land occupied by Israel by military force" and undermines "the chances of achieving a just and comprehensive peace." Egypt's foreign ministry denounced Trump's statement, citing U.N. Security Council resolution 497, which rejects Israel's annexation of the territory. The ministry emphasized that global leaders "should respect the resolutions of international legitimacy and the United Nations Charter in respect of the inadmissibility of acquiring land by force." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif predicted, "The personal decisions of Trump ... will lead to crisis in the region." The European Union emphasized it does not recognize Israel's sovereignty over the disputed area. "The position of the EU has not changed," an EU spokeswoman told Reuters. Russia expressed hope that Trump's call for recognition of Israel's sovereignty would not be enacted. "It is just a call for now," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Trump made the announcement Thursday via Twitter, maintaining the Golan Heights "is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability!" Pompeo Western Wall visit Trump's statement came while Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was in Jerusalem, the highest-ranking U.S. official ever to visit the contested Western Wall in the holy city of Jerusalem accompanied by an Israeli leader. The visit possibly signaled tacit U.S. recognition of Israeli control of the Jewish holy site, but it was quickly followed by Trump's specific announcement on the Golan Heights. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Iran of attempting to launch attacks on Israel from the Golan Heights, saying, "I think for this reason and many more, it is time that the international community recognizes Israel's stay on the Golan, and the fact that the Golan will always remain part of the State of Israel." The Israeli leader praised Trump's decision shortly after the president's announcement. "President Trump has just made history," Netanyahu said after calling the U.S. leader. "The message President Trump has given the world is that the United States stands by Israel. We are deeply grateful for the U.S. support." Last week, the U.S. State Department, in its annual human rights report, dropped the phrase "Israeli-occupied" from the Golan Heights section, instead calling it "Israeli-controlled." Pompeo told reporters the change in terminology was not accidental but rather a reflection of the reality on the ground that the Jewish state controlled the territory. In his visit to Jerusalem, Pompeo reaffirmed the long-standing U.S. friendship and support for Israel. The Golan Heights is about 1,800 square kilometers on the northeastern edge of Israel along its border with Syria, with about two-thirds of it controlled by Israel and the remainder under contested Syrian control. There have been numerous battles over the land during the eight-year Syrian Civil War. Israel formally annexed the territory in 1981. But the international community has not recognized that annexation and considers the Golan Heights to be occupied territory. Amid the regional uproar, Pompeo also met with Lebanon's interior minister on the last leg of a Mideast tour that took him to Israel and Kuwait. The U.S. State Department said the two men "discussed the regional and internal challenges facing Lebanon and how the United States can help support the Interior Ministry's efforts to maintain safety and stability inside Lebanon." Trump is meeting with Netanyahu in Washington next week. Netanyahu's government is headed to a tough April 9 re-election contest as the prime minister is embroiled in a corruption investigation and faces allegations of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Netanyahu has called the case against him a political "witch hunt." In comments to reporters en route to the Middle East, Pompeo dismissed the suggestion that his meeting with Netanyahu could be seen as the United States intruding in the Israeli election in support of the prime minister. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Advisers Reportedly Back Taiwan's Request for F-16s, China Cries Foul Sputnik News 18:01 22.03.2019 This comes a week after Taiwanese Deputy Defence Minister Shen Yi-ming told reporters that his ministry asked Washington to supply an updated version of US-made F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters to Taiwan in order to "demonstrate our determination and ability to defend ourselves". Advisers to US President Donald Trump have tacitly approved Taiwan's request to purchase more than 60 upgraded US fighter jets F-16, the South China Morning Herald quoted sources as saying Friday. The sources claimed that the request for the F-16s also included the one pertaining to mobile armour. The White House declined to comment on the matter. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang meanwhile warned that Beijing opposes "the sale of any American weaponry to Taiwan". "This is a clear and unchanging stance by Beijing, and we have already made a strict submission to Washington in this regard", Geng said. He urged the US to adhere to the One China principle and three joint US-Chinese communiques, adding that "the US should stop selling arms to Taiwan, interrupt any military contacts and interaction with the island nation so as not to harm China-US cooperation in key areas, as well as maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait". The development comes after Taiwanese Deputy Defence Minister Shen Yi-ming said earlier this month that in late February, his ministry submitted a broad and nonspecific request to Washington for new and advanced F-16 fighter jets to boost Taiwan's defence capability. In a separate development this month, Maj. Gen. Tang Hung-an, heads of the Taiwanese Air Force Command Headquarters Planning Division, said that "the F-15, the F-18, the F-16 and even the F-35 [warplanes] are all among our options, as long as the jets help to strengthen our air defence capabilities". Taipei asked to buy new General Dynamics F-16s back in 2011, but was at the time rebuffed by the Obama administration, which instead opted to help Taiwan refurbish its existing fleet of F-16A/B variants the earliest versions of the aircraft, dating to the 1970s. The latest move comes amid Washington's ongoing trade spat with Beijing that was triggered when Trump announced in June 2018 that $50 billion worth of Chinese goods would be subject to 25 percent tariffs in a bid to fix the US-Chinese trade deficit. Since then, the two countries have exchanged several rounds of trade duties against each other, but in December, Trump agreed to postpone increasing the tariff on $200 billion in Chinese imports to 25 percent, initially planned to go through on 1 January. The US, along with many other countries, does not recognise Taiwan as a sovereign nation and officially sticks to the "One China" policy. Even so, Washington keeps informal relations with the island nation after severing diplomatic ties with it in 1979. US President Donald Trump was the first president since Jimmy Carter to directly speak with the Taiwanese leader in 2016, and a year later, the US Congress passed the 2018 National Defence Authorization Act which authorised naval cooperation between the US and Taiwanese militaries. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pressured by China's Military Updates, Taiwan Asks US for More Weapons By Ralph Jennings March 22, 2019 Taiwan, faced with an increase in military spending by its main rival China, is seeking a range of new, advanced weapons systems from the United States, officials in Taipei confirmed this week. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said Tuesday in Taipei that her government had made a formal request to the United States for advanced fighter jets. Local media say she wants 66 American-made F-16 Viper fighter jets, an upgrade over Taiwan's existing F-16 fleet. A defense ministry spokesperson reached Wednesday did not rule out that possibility. Taiwan's armed forces rank 22nd in the world. China ranks much higher, behind only the United States and Russia, and outspends Taiwan on weaponry. This year Beijing announced a 7.5 percent defense budget increase, compared with Taipei's 5.6 percent hike this year. And with Chinese threats to reunify with the self-ruled island, by force if necessary, regional analysts say Taiwan is keen to boost its military preparedness, with U.S. help, to counter any threat from the mainland. "I think it's trying to emphasize that Taiwan is a very close U.S. ally and also sending a political message that we are urgently in need of U.S. support," said Andrew Yang, secretary-general of the think tank Chinese Council of Advanced Policy Studies in Taiwan. China's modernization China's People's Liberation Army is restructuring and advancing technologically, the U.S. defense department said in its annual report to Congress last year. It's eyeing Taiwan in particular, the report says. To restructure the armed forces, China has shifted personnel away from the army to its navy and air force to win any "local wars" characterized by "real-time, data-networked command and control, and precision strike," the Pentagon report says. To modernize, China is shifting toward outer space technology and cyber capabilities, the report says. "Because for the past few years China's investment in defense has been extremely fast, that has caused this severe imbalance. Taiwan basically must arm and defend itself, so we hope that in terms of defense we can achieve a sense of balance and develop what we need to develop," Taiwan ruling party legislator Lee Chun-yi said. For the current arms sale request, he said, "that's our initial motivation." Defense analysts have said Taiwan would best resist China through asymmetrical warfare, meaning effective resistance of an enemy with targeted firepower rather than overwhelming force. Informal U.S. alliance U.S. officials will evaluate the purchase request for 120 working days, Taiwan defense ministry spokesman Chen Chung-chi said. They would decide, he said, what exact kinds of aircraft and other weapons systems, such as radars, Taiwan should buy. An arms package would probably include training for Taiwan's armed forces, Chen said. Defense officials in Washington declined to comment on the latest request. Although China bristles whenever the U.S. government announces arms sales to Taiwan, Washington cites a 40-year-old congressional act that allows it to defend the island. The United States sees Taiwan as one of several democratic friends in the Western Pacific, valuable as China becomes more powerful militarily and economically. President Donald Trump's administration has particularly favored Taiwan as it pressures China over trade issues. The administration agreed to sell Taiwan $1.42 billion in advanced arms in mid-2017. In October last year, the U.S. Congress approved a $330 million sale of spare parts for military aircraft and other weaponry. Existing Taiwanese air force jets, including older F-16s, Mirage 2000s and domestically produced fighters, are aging after 20 years of use, Chen said. To keep up with China's "ceaseless" military research and development as well as "frequent" exercises off the coast, Taiwan needs better planes, Chen said. "We hope this purchase of advanced fighters will let us improve our air defense safety. China's military power after all is always growing, so we need to have some defensive capability," Chen said. "This is an extremely important key to maintaining peace in the region." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address G7 Letter Takes Aim At Role Of Violent Extremists In Ukrainian Society, Election By Christopher Miller March 22, 2019 KYIV -- As the Ukrainian presidential election nears, the world's leading industrialized nations have some strong words for Ukraine's top cop amid recent far-right violence in Kyiv and other cities. G7 ambassadors are urging Arsen Avakov, the interior minister, to act against violent political extremist groups who might threaten to disrupt the upcoming vote and usurp the role of the Ukrainian National Police and to consider outlawing them down the road. They are both tricky requests, considering Avakov's personal ties to those same groups and authorities' approval for one of them to monitor the election. But the ambassadors are being more cautious when it comes to concerns over perceived dirty politicking among Ukraine's 39 presidential hopefuls, reportedly rebuffing a U.S. proposal to raise that issue in writing due to a lack of consensus on how to do so without providing campaign ammunition to specific candidates. The abortive appeal emerged after RFE/RL obtained copies of two letters prepared by the G7 Ambassadors' Support Group for Ukraine -- one sent privately and the other drafted but watered down before being shared publicly. RFE/RL also spoke to three Western diplomats with knowledge of those texts and the related discussions. The ambassadors' group comprises envoys from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. 'They Intimidate Citizens, Damage Ukraine's Reputation' In the letter that was addressed to Avakov on March 15, French Ambassador Isabelle Dumont wrote on behalf of her fellow ambassadors that "the G7 group is concerned by extreme political movements in Ukraine, whose violent actions are worrying in themselves." "They intimidate Ukrainian citizens, attempt to usurp the role of the National Police in safeguarding elections, and damage the Ukrainian government's national and international reputation," Dumont continued, in a thinly veiled reference to the National Corps and National Militia, the far-right Azov group's political and vigilante wings, respectively. The letter, in English and Ukrainian, was delivered to Avakov's ministry the same day, according to a Western diplomat. Interior Ministry spokesman Artem Shevchenko confirmed to RFE/RL that Avakov had received it. That correspondence was followed by a visit from U.S. Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch, who on March 22 met with Avakov in person to discuss his ministry's "important role and responsibility to counter threats and prevent acts of violence by extremist groups," according to a tweet from the U.S. Embassy. Shevchenko described that meeting as "great, as usual," and friendly. 'Nationalist Hate Groups' The National Corps and National Militia were products of the Azov Battalion, a volunteer military regiment formed in the early days of the conflict against Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine that began in 2014. The battalion has been accused by international human rights groups of "war crimes" on the battlefield and has since been brought under the control of the National Guard, which is overseen by Avakov. Members of the National Corps and National Militia have been blamed for multiple violent attacks on minorities in Ukraine, particularly Roma and LGBTI persons, in the past year. The U.S. State Department described those far-right entities as "nationalist hate groups" in its Ukraine country report on Human Rights for 2018 released on March 13. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/g7-takes-aim-at-role -of-violent-extremists-in-ukrainian- society-election/29836811.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 Former US Diplomats Slam Response to 2018 Russian Attack on Ukrainian Ships By Iryna Matviichuk March 22, 2019 Recent Western-imposed sanctions targeting Russia spawned by a naval attack on Ukrainian soldiers on the Sea of Azov late last year are too little, too late, say former top U.S. emissaries to the region. The United States, in coordination with Canada and the European Union, leveled the sanctions on more than a dozen Russian officials and businesses earlier in March, citing Moscow's "continued aggression in Ukraine." On Nov. 25, 2018, Russian Coast Guard vessels rammed and then seized a trio of Ukrainian naval vessels as they moved across international waters of the Black Sea en route from one Ukrainian port to another. The two dozen Ukrainian sailors aboard those ships have since been jailed in Moscow's notorious Lefortovo prison. "Where were we in March, April, May, June of 2018?" said former U.S. Ambassador Victoria Nuland of the timing of the latest sanctions. Nuland spoke in Washington at a recent roundtable event, titled, "Crimea after Five Years of Russian Occupation." Nuland was one of several former top State Department officials on hand at the roundtable jointly sponsored by U.S. Institute of Peace, the Ukrainian embassy and the Atlantic Council. Nuland, a former assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, echoed criticism by retired U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine John Herbst, who was also in attendance. "I know where George was [at that time]," she added, referring to George Kent, the deputy assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, who was also at the discussion. "But I don't know where the rest of the administration and the rest of Europe were as the harassment of Ukrainian shipping was beginning, as the first efforts to gain control of that [maritime] territory were beginning. "As has already been said, perhaps we didn't want to see, so we waited until the crisis emerged. And even after the crisis, where were we in trying to increase our presence in the Black Sea?" Nuland said. "We're only just getting there now. Where were we in terms of supporting Ukrainian naval capacity? Where were we in terms of a fast, ready-sanctions reaction?" Six Russian officials, six defense firms, and two energy and construction firms were targeted with U.S. sanctions, either over the seizure of Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Strait, or for their activities in Russian-annexed Crimea or separatist eastern Ukraine, according to a U.S. Treasury statement. 'Late and weak' Although current and former diplomats all expressed support for the latest sanctions, Herbst said they were still not enough. "Western sanctions were late and weak," Herbst later told VOA's Ukrainian service. "If they'd been late and strong, I'd be celebrating, but they were weak. They sanctioned low-level officials and some Russian maritime-related firms. That's it. They should have done something like sanction some high officials or family members of high officials, and they should have taken a major step like going after Gazprombank, which would've had a real impact on the Russian economy. That would tell [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, 'Don't escalate again, or you're going to get stung.'" Senior Atlantic Council Fellow Anders Aslund largely echoed that sentiment in a Kyiv Post opinion piece. Support for Western response Deputy Assistant Secretary Kent, head of the European and Eurasian Affairs directorate, pushed back on the criticism, pointing out that the U.S. did respond to the Sea of Azov events in real time. "I think we made our response clear, both in immediately calling Secretary [of State Mike] Pompeo and calling President [Petro] Poroshenko the next day as well as in our public comments condemning the attack and calling for the immediate release of both the ships and the sailors and personnel," Kent told VOA. "And if you recall, while there was a scheduled meeting later that week in Buenos Aires at the G-20, the U.S. and President [Donald] Trump canceled that meeting precisely because of the Russians' refusal to release both the ships and the personnel who were in violation of international law seized and then detained," he added. The G-20 group is made up of 20 of the world's biggest economies. Kent said the Trump administration is actively working to change the Kremlin's "cost calculus" for aggression on foreign soil and on international waters. Controversial referendum In March 2014, Russia annexed Ukraine's Black Sea peninsula in violation of the norms and standards of the international order. The Kremlin denies this charge, claiming that residents of Crimea voted in a referendum to secede from Ukraine. The majority of the international community has not recognized the validity of the referendum. Russia's modernization efforts in the region include construction of a 19-kilometer (11.8-mile) bridge which opened last year across the Kerch Strait that links the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. The $3.6 billion project gave Crimea a land link to Russia. Previously, a ferry crossing that was often interrupted by gales served as the only connection. This story originated in VOA's Ukrainian Service. Pete Cobus contributed reporting. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SARNIA, Ontario, March 20, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- Lamperd Less Lethal, Inc. (OTC PINK:LLLI), an innovation leader and manufacturer of advanced security solutions for law enforcement, military and security agencies worldwide, has signed a new marketing agreement with Canadian Armour of Ontario (www.canarmor.ca) to increase international sales of the full Lamperd product line and training services. Canadian Armour currently has a well established customer base of law enforcement and other authorized users for its own products which complement but do not compete with the Lamperd line. Now Canadian Armour representatives will be able to introduce Lamperd products at the same time as they are presenting their own successful line and better serve their many law enforcement customers with more of the vital solutions they need. Barry Lamperd, CEO of Lamperd Less Lethal, commented, "We are extremely pleased to have reached a mutually beneficial marketing agreement with Canadian Armour which we believe will significantly boost the sales of our products on the international front, reaching new customers all over the globe. Canadian Armour's customers are potential buyers for our products as well, so this is an ideal new joint marketing alliance we are now launching." To connect with Canadian Armour directly or make an appointment to visit their showroom contact Sales Manager Areg Dadashyan at: (416) 271-7501 or via email to: sales@canarmor.ca. The Canadian Armour Showroom is located at: Unit 3 of 10097 Yonge Street Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4C 1T7 Canada On other developing sales programs Mr. Lamperd further added, "I would also like to let our shareholders and other followers know that we have been working diligently for months to prepare for the launch of an international marketing program with a large aerospace and defense company. And, in the near future we plan to have an important announcement regarding this major new marketing program." Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes forward-looking statements. While these statements are made to convey to the public the company's progress, business opportunities and growth prospects, readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements represent management's opinion. Whereas management believes such representations to be true and accurate based on information and data available to the company at this time, actual results may differ materially from those described. The company's operations and business prospects are always subject to risk and uncertainties. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ are and will be set forth in the company's periodic filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Contact: Lamperd Less Lethal, Inc. Barry Lamperd, President & CEO (519) 344-4445 Company Website: www.lamperdlesslethal.com Lamperd Less Lethal on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lamperdlesslethal Lamperd Less Lethal on Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/llli_lamperd_lesslethal Barry Lamperd on Twitter: Https://www.twitter.com/lamperd_llli NEW ALBANY, Ohio, March 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE: ANF) today announced it has joined Nirapon, a Bangladesh-managed organization tasked with overseeing the ongoing safety and training efforts and helpline access in all the factories in Bangladesh from which its members source. This commitment is part of A&F Co.s ongoing support of industry-wide safety improvements throughout its global supply chain. With the support of more than 20 leading global brands, Nirapon will monitor its members factories to verify that they: (1) continue to meet the National Action Plan harmonized standards for physical safety (structural, fire and electrical); (2) have implemented standardized training programs focused on worker safety; and (3) continue to make the 24-hour confidential helpline, Amader Kotha, available to its factory workers. Nirapon will serve as the single point of contact between its members and the factories on these issues and will also focus on building local capacity to manage fire and building safety to sustain and build on the investments in worker safety that have been made to date. Since 2013, as one of the first U.S. brands to sign The Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh, the vendors that A&F Co. works with in Bangladesh aggressively remediated initial findings in its facilities to deliver long-term sustainable improvements. Today, the company works with vendors in five facilities. Its vendor partners are committed to sustaining best practices, with ongoing guidance from leading brands, as well as third-party auditing firms, and now in partnership with Nirapon. We are pleased to announce our support of Nirapon. We remain steadfast in our commitment to being part of a long-term solution for continuous safety in Bangladesh, and we look forward to working with Nirapon and other member brands on sustaining factory safety improvements in Bangladesh at a local level, said Fran Horowitz, Chief Executive Officer of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. A&F Co. is committed to supporting meaningful industry-wide safety improvements, and the welfare of its employees and its vendors around the world. To learn more about Nirapon, visit www.nirapon.org About Abercrombie & Fitch Co. Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE: ANF) is a leading, global specialty retailer of apparel and accessories for Men, Women and Kids through three renowned brands. For more than 125 years, the iconic Abercrombie & Fitch brand has outfitted innovators, explorers and entrepreneurs. Today, the brand reflects the updated attitude of modern consumer, while remaining true to its heritage of creating expertly crafted products with an effortless, American style. The Hollister brand epitomizes the liberating and carefree spirit of the endless California summer for the teen market. abercrombie kids creates smart, playful apparel for children ages 5-14, celebrating the wide-eyed wonder of childhood. The brands share a commitment to offering products of enduring quality and exceptional comfort that allow consumers around the world to express their own individuality and style. The Company operates more than 850 stores under these brands across North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, as well as the e-commerce sites www.abercrombie.com and www.hollisterco.com. About Nirapon Nirapon is a self-regulating model providing factory building and fire safety monitoring, oversight and reporting services in Bangladesh for its member brands. Nirapon is committed to helping the factories from which its members source develop a sustainable culture of safety; to do so, it will focus on building capacity amongst Bangladeshs assessment and training service providers. This will be accomplished by identifying service providers capable of supporting assessments, remediation, capacity building and training. Factories manufacturing for Nirapon member brands will engage assessment and training service providers from the qualified pool, while Nirapon will validate the quality of services provided and alert membership to any potential risk and issues. Nirapon is a blend of two Bangla words Nirapodh and Abashon which together mean Safe Place. DALLAS, March 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alternet Systems, Inc. (USOTC: ALYI) (ALYI) today confirmed the companys plans to publish an online presentation on Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 to provide an in-depth update on the companys merger and acquisition (m&a) strategy. Last month, the company announced specific plans to pursue the acquisition of a shuttered electric car manufacturing plant. Subsequently, the company announced the shuttered car plant acquisition was part of a larger overall m&a initiative. On Tuesday, next week, management will detail a comprehensive m&a strategy to expand both the companys alternative energy storage reach and electric vehicle production capacity. ALYI is focused on offering varied, environmentally sustainable, energy storage solutions for targeted markets, including consumer electric vehicles and military applications. The first product category is lithium battery-powered motorcycles, to be followed by motorbikes. ALYI has recently announced $2 million in orders of its Revolt Electric Motorcycles. ALYI also recently launched a hemp energy storage initiative. Research Report Speculative Buy Rating And $0.09 Target PPS Goldman Small Cap Research recently issued a research report update on the Company. The report confirms a 'speculative-buy' rating with a target price-per-share of $0.09. The report provides an in-depth overview and analysis of Alternet's new strategy, new orders, and upcoming milestones. To view the report, along with disclosures and disclaimers, visit https://www.alternetsystemsinc.com/research-update or http://www.GoldmanResearch.com. Disclaimer/Safe Harbor: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Litigation Reform Act. The statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events that involve risks and uncertainties. Among others, these risks include the expectation that any of the companies mentioned herein will achieve significant sales, the failure to meet schedule or performance requirements of the companies' contracts, the companies' liquidity position, the companies' ability to obtain new contracts, the emergence of competitors with greater financial resources and the impact of competitive pricing. In the light of these uncertainties, the forward-looking events referred to in this release might not occur. For more information, please visit: http://www.alternetsystemsinc.com Alternet Systems, Inc. Contact: Randell Torno info@lithiumip.com +1-800-713-0297 English Icelandic Enclosed is information on candidates to the Board of Directors of Eimskipafelag Islands hf. to be elected at the Annual General Meeting 28 March 2019. Deadline for declaring candidacy has passed. According to the Company's Articles of Association the Annual General Meeting elects five members and two alternate members for the Board of Directors. As six declared candidacy to the Board of Directors and three to the Alternate Board of Directors the candidates will be elected to the Board of Directors at the meeting. Information on the candidates is attached. Eimskipafelag Islands hf.'s Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday 28 March 2019 at 16:00 (GMT) at the Company's headquarters in Korngardar 2, Reykjavik, Iceland. Attachment New Orleans, Louisiana, March 23, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Early this morning police were called to a Tulane University dorm room. Pictures below show that there was an attempt to light a student's door on fire. The door belongs to Young Americans for Liberty (YAL) student Peyton Lofton. Peyton Lofton was recently doxxed by an anti-YAL social media account that exposed him for being a part of YAL. Police are currently investigating the incident. Peyton is a current YAL chapter officer and played a crucial role in YALs Operation Win at the Door deployment in Missouri in 2018, electing Dirk Deaton to the Missouri State House. Peyton released the following statement regarding the incident: "Its a sad day in America when radical activists are lighting dorm room doors on fire because they disagree with you politically. Im proud of the work Im doing on and off campus with YAL and TPUSA to bring students to the principles of the Constitution and individual liberty. This only encourages me to continue the battle to reach my classmates with the message of freedom." YAL President Cliff Maloney defended Peyton saying, "YAL stands behind Peyton and every other American college student thats want to have real dialogue and debate on campus. If a socialist student is your neighbor, the answer is to engage and discuss the issues, not shame them online and light their door on fire. This type of violence must end. YAL will continue to reach thousands of college students with the message of the Constitution and individual liberty." ***FOR ADDITIONAL COMMENT PLEASE CONTACT press@yaliberty.org.*** ### Attachments Vital Chain digitizes the birth and death certificate process, allowing for faster and cheaper access to important records without in-person visits, mail and document fees. Its in a nascent stage, and Bigelow said he hopes to have a proof-of-concept to show to prospective clients hospitals, funeral homes, coroners and state governments by the end of 2019. DigiCredits facilitates the transfer of tax credits in a way that government entities can trace them. Bigelow said the core of the program is built, because its the same as the companys other offerings, but the timetable on DigiCredits' release will depend on market demand and cooperation. Tech Tags will be part software and part hardware incorporated into vehicles, intended to help state governments ensure the right mileage taxes or other fees are being paid in instances where a vehicles owner and user are not the same person specifically, in the future when autonomous and rideshare vehicles are more prevalent. Bigelow said Tech Tags will involve policy discussions, is several years out and will work with CHAMPtitles. Cleveland-based blockchain company Ownum launched its first product Friday and announced three in the works, each with the stated purpose of eliminating a specific paper-based government process.Incorporated in May 2018, Ownum is a holding company that now claims four subsidiaries CHAMPtitles , Vital Chain, DigiCredits and Tech Tags which are developing products of the same respective names, all meant to identify an expensive paper-based process, create a digital asset of it and record that digital asset to a blockchain. CHAMPtitles, a blockchain portal for processing vehicle titles, was the focus of Fridays announcement.Speaking withafter the launch, CEO Shane Bigelow described CHAMPtitles as a simplification of a process that typically involves a consumer, a car dealer, a manufacturer, a bank, an insurance company, a state DMV and a title-issuing authority such as a court clerk or county recorder. He said digital solutions prior to blockchain werent feasible, because metadata coming in and out of databases can be reverse-engineered so banks and insurance companies can glean each others proprietary information from it.The reason this wasnt possible a couple years ago is that all those parties are unwilling to communicate with one another on a singular database system. Theyre unwilling to have their information come into a central location and be monitored by the state, so they force the process to be on paper, Bigelow said. The only reason the title-issuing authority is involved in the process was because [in the past], the other six parties didnt really trust each other. The bank didnt trust that the lien was going to get on the title correctly, the car dealer wasnt trusted by the manufacturer. Cryptography associated with blockchain is so much further advanced than anything you could put around a database that it now enables all of these parties to transact securely and comfortably with this system.Bigelow clarified that CHAMPtitles doesnt necessarily remove any parties from the process, but its supposed to make their day-to-day work more efficient. He said the focus will be on registering cars in 2021 and beyond, so ideally, as the program becomes popular and more widely used, new-car transactions will require less staff time and fewer title-issuing authorities than they do now.He said customers for this product will vary by state. CHAMPtitles will seek state contracts where it can, but in states where vehicle title fees are pre-allocated to other projects, the company would send data to states while selling access to its portal to banks, car dealers and insurance companies who might benefit from a paperless workflow.Bigelow explained Ownums three other blockchain companies as follows:Well aware of the many blockchain solutions that have failed to catch on, including some of his own investments , Moreno, Ownums founder, has learned a few lessons from them. He said hes confident in CHAMPtitles because of its specificity, manageable scale and relatively fewer number of parties who need to get on board for it to work.You have to tackle a small, simple, elegant problem. Other companies have tried to take on too big of a topic, like for example, voting. Its a great application for blockchain, in my opinion, but its so controversial, visceral and partisan that its very hard to get something like that done, he said. With vehicle titles, most voters dont hold the titles themselves. Theyre held by banks, leasing companies or fleets. As a result, you can do things more rapidly than you would with something that touches every consumer or voter. It takes a lot of friction out of the system. Minnesota's costly and controversial Licensing and Registration System (MNLARS) was recently approved for an additional $13 million in funding the bulk of which will go to IT contractors that continue to tackle the various bugs troubling the system.However, more money, while appreciated, hasnt necessarily inspired confidence in MNLARS long term. Two lawmakers confirmed this week that state officials are currently exploring the possibility of abandoning the beleaguered system and once again hiring an outside company to build a new one.State Rep. Dave Baker, R-District 17B, chair of the House committee on technology, said in an interview withthat abandoning MNLARS was an avenue that could be pursued.We are not convinced yet that we shouldnt scrap it and walk away and do another version of something different, he said. I think thats the big question right now: Is it worth saving?"Rep. Paul Torkelson, R-District 16B, similarly said that the state's Department of Public Safety was currently in "conversation" with several different companies about potentially taking on the task of creating a new system. One of those companies, Torkelson said, is the contractor the state used to create its driver's license IT system , FAST Enterprises."It's challenging to be optimistic it really is," Torkelson said of the current system.The reasons for that skepticism are legion, according to the lawmakers. A project that has cost the state over $100 million, the system which was supposed to streamline and modernize services for state residents suffered continual setbacks throughout the decade it was in development. After the initial vendor didn't work out, the states IT Services agency decided to build the system in-house. An imperfect design, however, led to a dysfunctional rollout in 2017, and the system has been plagued by longstanding issues ever since.While many of the initial problems associated with the rollout have now been mended, issues still persist. The appeal of building a new system lies in the fact that MNLARS, according to some, seems to function less efficiently than the system it was built to replace.It is largely not functioning as well as the old e-support system was, Baker said. "It is still clunky. It is still slower than it should be. The deputy registrars are still frustrated.Julie Hanson, the deputy registrar for Scott County, said things have improved since 2017 but agreed that the transition to MNLARS has been quite difficult.Our world has just completely changed, she said. The hope was that by going to MNLARS, the back end to the customer would be much quicker.Instead, she said, the opposite happened. MNLARS shifted substantial responsibilities for new IT work onto the registrars' shoulders, creating a shortage of manpower for basic services, she said. Substantial new staffing and additional funding will be necessary to fix the customer experience, now plagued by increased wait times.The system design isnt such that its ever going to flow real well for its end users, she said. I dont know that it has the potential to ever become something that is that user friendly.Hanson also said the new $13 million allocation was helpful but would not go far for her county. I think Scott County would get somewhere in the neighborhood of $85,000, she said. That one-time payment "doesnt enable us with salary and benefits [to] hire somebody on and keep them on, she said.With the different types of coding that were used to build MNLARs that dont speak to each other well, I dont know if it honestly can be fixed, she said.In addition to the governor's recent $13 million allocation, several different funding strategies are being considered to support the system into the future. In particular, state officials are currently mulling the allocation of an additional $80 million in funding to MNLARS to help with operations, Baker and Torkelson said.Similarly, a bill recently introduced by Rep. Rick Hansen would allocate a one-time payment of $10 million to reimburse the deputy registrars that have suffered financial losses as a result of the debacle.Both Baker and Torkelson said that a decision as to whether the state would try to salvage or replace MNLARS would likely be made by the end of the legislative session in May.It will be a difficult decision, Torkelson said."It's a very difficult choice to make between investing more money in this system that we've already spent over $100 million on, and putting it on life support and going out and hiring someone to come in and more or less start over, which would also be very expensive," he said. Energy Park Security Equals Border Security Energizing a Region Energy Park Design, Implementation and Buy-in Fence. Wall. Barrier. Whatever you want to call it.President Donald Trumps fight for border security began on the campaign trail in 2015 and the fight continues, despite it leading to the longest U.S. government shutdown in history.There are, of course, many border wall supporters nationwide, and even more border wall opponents, according to the Pew Research Center . But politics aside, a consortium of 28 engineers and scientists nationwide have proposed a potentially productive alternative: building an energy park that spans the 1,954 mile-long border between Mexico and the U.S.This consortium suggests that the U.S. and Mexican governments collaborate to create an industrial park along the border that would consist of a train of solar energy panels, wind turbines, natural gas pipelines and desalination facilities and bring energy, water, jobs and border security to the region.Consortium Lead Luciano Castillo, who also is Purdue University's Kenninger professor of renewable energy and power systems, says that this project, if enacted, would have a historic positive effect on both countries."This is a different kind of initiative that will solve many existing challenges while bringing people together," Castillo said in a news release . "It will bring energy, water and education to create more opportunities for the USA and Mexico."By its very nature, this energy park would be secure which means the border itself also would be secure.You're going to have large pipes of water and electricity running through, so you have to protect the infrastructure, not just from the weather but also from animals and vandalism, Castillo told. And because we have to protect that, that by itself is going to be a buffer for trespassing.The energy park would include such physical security features as multiple levels of fencing, as well as electronic sensors and drone surveillance wildlife could still migrate, but officials would be alerted should anyone attempt to cross the border illegally.Arizona State University Regents Professor Ronald Adrian, who also is a member of the National Academy of Engineering, agrees.The measures being undertaken to control the U.S.-Mexican border with a barrier are entirely compatible with a long bank of solar panels backed by a super pipeline, he said in the news release, same land, similar construction issues, and the fact that each of these systems is a barrier to some degree.Plus, this initiative will solve many existing challenges while simultaneously energizing and building up the region.Castillo likened the project to the transcontinental railroad transforming the United States in the 19th century or the interstate system transforming the 20th century, calling it a national infrastructure project for the 21st century.Look at Canada you have hydro power, hydroelectric; [they took] advantage of Niagara Falls and created one of the biggest developments, like we did in the early [years] when we were developing energy production with Edison and Tesla, Castillo said. I think this country needs something big to bring hope, and I think this project could be that something big.This project, he added, would include institutes located at the border where people could learn and conduct research, and potentially develop new innovations.There's a great potential to create training and learning, he said. And if that happens, people on both sides would be training while theyre working and/or testing technology that they could develop there. The way we see it is as the greatest technological park ever built, because you would have roughly 2,000 miles of manufacturing companies, startups that could set up there, and educational institutions.Plus, the Southwestern United States is dry and prone to drought. But an energy park along the border that includes wind-powered desalination plants at each coast would pump fresh water to the interior region.In addition, Castillo said, nearly half of our nations water is used for cooling in fossil fuel and nuclear power plants, so increasing wind and solar electricity production means billions of gallons of water would be available for other resources, such as agriculture and manufacturing.We could grow new businesses in the border region, he told. We could also develop agriculture because now we have fresh water; we could do a lot of things. And the whole idea is that we're not seeing this as us versus them; we see it as a way to work together. Lets employ people on both sides, because Mexico is facing the same problem of lack of water and lack of electricity. This is a different way of creating value and opportunity.In the consortiums white paper , Castillo and his colleagues propose that a consortium consisting of U.S. and Mexican universities along with industries and laboratories in the U.S., Mexico and Latin America provide technical expertise and new innovations for the energy parks development. And that a team of academic institutions help the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) build the park.We need to better learn how to use our talent. And by talent, I mean the greatest minds we have, not only in academia, but you have a lot of young students very brilliant students, very creative that are taking classes, they're facing some of those problems, Castillo said. Why not engage academia at all levels and in the industry? And we help design this park. We could work with the federal government, we would work with the local government, industries and obviously the private sector on both sides.More specifically, the proposal calls for developing at least three "energy security institute" campuses along the border where people from both Mexico and the U.S. can learn skills necessary for working in the wind energy, solar energy and natural gas industries.Purdue Vincent P. Reilly Professor in Mechanical Engineering Jay Gore, who also is director of the Energy Center in Purdue's Discovery Park, said universities within California, Texas, Arizona and New Mexico should be convinced to establish partnerships with their Mexican counterparts across the border to establish curricula for workforce development at all levels to attract private investment by corporations and venture firms from around the world.In addition, Castillo said the idea is that the DHS would provide funding to the consortium to help it design and build the park and its components. And Mexico also would help with funding, he added, because it is in the best interest of both parties to solve the problem of water.While the project is still in the idea phase, Castillo said the proposal has been sent to four congressmen, and the consortium is still awaiting response.We're hoping that the politicians on Capitol Hill really listen carefully or study this carefully, he said. This has nothing to do with Democrats or Republicans; it has to do with providing the country a solution to something better than what we're discussing right now. (TNS) Detroit officials have orchestrated a 'citizen petition drive' soliciting support for a new multi-million dollar surveillance program pitched by Mayor Mike Duggan that would put high-definition cameras in city neighborhoods.City officials are emailing local community groups asking them to pre-emptively "pledge support" for Duggan's "Neighborhood Real-Time Intelligence Program," an initiative the mayor highlighted during his State of the City address March 5."In order to continue making Detroit a safe place to live, work, and play, we are asking you to gather signatures from your neighbors pledging support for the Neighborhood Real-Time Intelligence Program," an email sent to a local nonprofit and obtained by thereads.The email, which was sent by Martin DeNicolo of the Department of Neighborhoods, on behalf of District 7 Manager Mona Ali, explained that the program would essentially be an off-shoot of Project Green Light, a crime-fighting initiative where local businesses pay to have real-time cameras stream to the Detroit Police Department headquarters. It had a petition attached for "neighbors" to sign."These cameras will be installed and continuously monitored at no cost to neighborhood residents, used to focus on crimes committed with guns and carjackings, and will not be placed on residential streets," the email stated, emphasizing that the initiative was inspired by the "success" Project Green Light Detroit at "preventing crime and improving safety throughout Detroit's commercial corridors."Unlike Project Green Light, however, the neighborhood cameras would not be installed on private businesses, but public intersections. The cost would also not be shouldered by businesses as has been touted as one of the "benefits" of the Project Green Light program but rather the city.The city will spend approximately $8.9 million in local and federal traffic signal modernization funds for the installation of the cameras over the next two years, according to Duggan spokesman John Roach.Roach also noted that unlike Project Green Light, the cameras would not be monitored by DPD but by Detroit Public Works staff at the Real Time Crime Center within the Public Safety headquarters downtown. He said the cameras would just be focused on "Traffic movement."When asked for clarification for why the city was spending nearly $9 million on traffic surveillance, Roach said the money was not just for cameras but to "upgrade traffic signals.""One of the things these new traffic signals will be able to do is to immediately alert staff when a traffic signal malfunctions," said Roach. "The cameras will be able to be used to monitor traffic patterns and review accidents to help inform future safety improvements."Roach emphasized to thethat this was a traffic initiative first, and not a crime initiative.But Duggan introduced the new system as a crime-fighting initiative during his State of the City address, indicating that in terms of reducing crime in Detroit, hiring more new police officers and pushing for a $10 million budget increase for the police department was "not going to get it done. We are not going to change the direction by doing more of the same."Duggan credited Police Chief James Craig with the idea of expanding the capabilities of the city traffic light cameras and monitoring them from a single system.These are the traffic cameras were putting up. We will get shots of the perpetrators as they go past and well be able to chase them down, Duggan said.The petition to community members likewise stressed the public safety component, explaining that the feeds would at first stream to the downtown headquarters; however, over time the goal would be to build mini-Real Time Crime Centers at each police precinct in the city.According to Roach, $2 million has already been allocated for building two such centers in the 8th and 9th precincts. Another $2 million will go toward expanding the main center.This comes on top of the nearly $8 million in bond money that was allocated in 2016 to the build-out of the original Real Time Crime Center.In 2019, cameras are set to be installed at 11 intersections on Greenfield and East Seven Mile corridors. Additionally, the Department of Public Works will add cameras to 29 intersections across the city. In 2020 an additional 400 cameras will be added."These city-owned cameras" the petition explains, "will complement cameras installed at Project Green Light sites and existing city-owned traffic cameras establishing a network of 1,000 locations with cameras citywide."While no initiative has gone before city council yet, Councilwoman Mary Sheffield said she is already working to build provisions to make sure whatever is deployed, is deployed responsibly."With an increase in local police surveillance technologies, it is important to create an open and transparent process for the approval or rejection of local surveillance technologies," said Sheffield, who is working with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to create an ordinance that regulates the surveillance process."It is important to have legally enforceable safeguards, robust transparency, and accountability measures in order to protect civil rights and civil liberties before any surveillance is deployed," she continued.For critics who have been monitoring Project Green Light, the email proactively requesting support for this future plan raises a host of questions surrounding an expanding surveillance state, and how the Duggan administration is going about garnering support for such initiatives."Im angry," Eric Williams, an attorney working with the American Civil Liberties Union on a committee opposing Project Green Light's surveillance tactics, wrote in an email upon hearing about the petition city officials sent out.Williams pointed out that the new program's only resemblance to Project Green Light is it has surveillance cameras.Neighborhood policing, priority-one 911 status and extra lighting, which are part of traditional Project Green Light program are not mentioned with this initiative."Proactively reaching out to community groups like this is problematic when theyre doing so by telling them that they are building on Project Green Light, and this doesnt include the only components of Project Green Light that arguably reduces crime," said Williams referring to the non-camera aspects of the program.The city defended its use of the emails for support."After the Mayor's state of the city address, the Mayor's office began receiving numerous calls and other inquiries from residents and block club leaders across the city who were excited about the expansion of the camera network and wanted their neighborhood corridors to be first in line to have them installed," said Jimmy Settles, group executive for neighborhoods under the Duggan administration."We created this form, which was sent to all of our block clubs, to provide a uniform process for community groups to express their interest," he continued. "This form will help us track which neighborhoods are most interested in having cameras installed and which ones still want to learn more before we determine where to start."Williams, however, maintains that his biggest frustration with this push for expansion is the fact that there is currently no conclusive evidence that Project Green Light or mass surveillance has been working to reduce crime in the city.The email with the petition explained that the desire to expand the surveillance network was predicated on the "success" of programs like Project Green Light in bringing down crime. But it gave no specifics data or facts to define "success."As the Free Press previously reported, evidence of Project Green Light's success is inconclusive.Researchers say the data that is typically touted by the police department declining crime at Project Green Light sites, declining car theft across the city does not actually illustrate much.What would be necessary to assess the efficacy of the program, according to researchers, is a comprehensive study that compares Green Light locations with non-Green Light locations over time.Michigan State University via the city of Detroit was granted funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance to create such a study. However, nothing has been published as of yet."Our analysis to date, indicates an initial increase in calls for police service followed by a downward trend in crime. When compared to other non-Green Light locations the results are a bit more difficult to interpret," Edmund McGarrell, the director of the Michigan Justice Statistics Center who is spearheading the study, wrote in an email last fall, explaining that the comparison is hard to analyze because new businesses are constantly being added to Green Light and they need more time and locations to understand the impact on violent crime."My best summary is that the preliminary results of Green Light are promising but that more time and more Green Light locations are needed to properly evaluate the impact on crime," he wrote.In the absence of a conclusive study, experts say it is nearly impossible to tie Detroit's crime reduction something many cities across the country are also seeing specifically to Green Light."Violent crimes have been declining in many cities across the country. Without rigorous evaluations that use comparison groups, it is difficult to attribute the decline in any city to a specific program or policy, Bryce Peterson of the Washington, D.C.-based think tank the Urban Institute, said last spring.Peterson said he had looked into Detroits Project Green Light program in 2017 as a possible option for Milwaukee's police department, where he was advising the department on surveillance options. While he heard many positive reviews of the program, his team "ran into a wall" when it came time to look at the data."I am trying to be neutral in that Ive heard mostly good things about it, but at the same time, I have not seen any direct evidence of its effectiveness, only anecdotal information that weve heard from sources with a vested interest in it," Peterson said.Milwaukee ultimately decided to go in another direction.Additionally, while researchers remain uncertain whether or not Project Green Light is working without a comparative study, there are also questions around effectiveness as the surveillance network continues to expand.According to Eric Piza, an associate professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, who spent time studying camera use in Newark, N.J, research suggests that cameras work best in small, contained environments."My own research suggests that there is, for lack of a better term, a tipping point at which the police can get to a situation where theyve installed so many cameras that they can no longer effectively police them," he said last winter.His advice to police departments was to install only the number of cameras they can realistically and proactively monitor.With more than 500 Project Green Light locations in Detroit, not all are being monitored at once."Even if we had 200 people sitting in the room, we couldnt view 200 [cameras] it would be impossible," Craig said in January 2017 when the Free Press asked about monitoring capabilities.The agreement between Green Light businesses and the police, in fact, notes that DPD will monitor cameras at its "discretion" and will not guarantee but rather make "its best effort to monitor" a business's cameras should it make a 911 call.It raises questions of what would happen with the Neighborhood Real-Time Intelligence Program.If they dont monitor it, then youre going to run into the problem that you read about in our report, which is once people know that the cameras are not being monitored, theyre going to lose their effectiveness, Peterson of the Urban Institute told the Free Press last spring, referring to a 2011 report by his organization that found mixed results around surveillance in Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Chicago."Results varied, with crime falling in some areas and remaining unchanged in others," the report said, noting that success or failure depended on how the surveillance systems were set up and monitored and how they balanced privacy and security.Baltimore, which "virtually saturated" its downtown area with blue lights and cameras that were then monitored around the clock by police, found a significant decline in total crime, violent crime, and larceny downtown. The effects, however, were mixed in the neighborhoods. Crime fell by 25 percent in one area, 10 percent in another and stayed the same in a third.In Chicago, the report documented two neighborhoods in the same precinct that had cameras. One saw crime fall by nearly 12 percent while the other saw no change. The reason for the discrepancy, according to the reports authors, was that residents in the latter community "believed police werent consistently monitoring their neighborhoods cameras."For critics of mass-surveillance, like Williams, the question of why this would be expanding before any comparative study is published is puzzling."WHY THE [EXPLETITVE] ARE WE EXPANDING IT BEFORE THE STUDY IS EVEN DONE?" Williams wrote in his email to the. "Would a negative report stop them from expanding? Is the city that desperate to seem like they are doing something? Is there some other motive?""This is money and resources," he continued. "Every police officer sitting watching a camera could be out there patrolling the streets." (TNS) First Congress threatened to cut off federal funds to universities using components made by telecom giant Huawei. Next came a classified FBI briefing last fall for University of California research chiefs about foreign espionage threats.Then in January the U.S. government charged the Chinese firm with bank fraud , violating U.S. sanctions against Iran and theft of trade secrets.This was the point in which the line was crossed for me, said Randy Katz, UC Berkeleys vice chancellor for research.He promptly announced an immediate ban on new research with Huawei, suspending a partnership with one of the schools largest corporate donors that had provided about $9 million over the past eight years.Berkeley is among a growing number of American universities, including such research powerhouses as Stanford, MIT and UC San Diego, that have begun to cut off ties with Huawei. The moves come in response to warnings from U.S. law enforcement agencies that Huawei cant be trusted and could secretly do Beijing's bidding, whether by spying or sabotage.Moreover, the Trump administration wants to restrain Huawei the worlds largest telecom equipment maker from expanding its grip on development of critical 5G infrastructure, the next-generation wireless networking system that experts believe will transform connectivity for self-driving cars, factory automation and many other applications.While Europe has generally been skeptical of White House calls to prevent Huawei from dominating new 5G networks, U.S. universities, many of which have long-standing relationships with Chinese entities, find themselves in a bind: China may be one of the largest outside sources of technology research funding, but it runs a distant second to Washington in underwriting such work.UC San Diego, one of the nations largest research universities, counts on the federal government for most of its more than $1 billion in annual R&D spending. The school last August issued a six-month moratorium on new research involvement with Huawei, and last month extended that indefinitely.Not only do universities fear jeopardizing hundreds of millions of dollars in federal grants, they dont want to find themselves in the position down the road of having contributed to national security problems, however inadvertently.We are sensitive to the federal governments concerns about technologies being appropriated by other countries to the detriment of U.S. national security, Stanford said in December as it announced a moratorium on new engagements, gifts, affiliate membership fees and other support from Huawei.As long ago as 2012, a House Intelligence Committee report warned that deploying Huawei gear could make U.S. infrastructure vulnerable to spying and cyber-attacks.More recently, Congress 2019 appropriations measure for the Defense Department, signed into law in August, prohibits funds from going to universities and other institutions that use substantial or essential components from Huawei and certain other Chinese firms for telecom and video surveillance systems.Universities immediately began to scour their campuses for any Huawei gear. UC Berkeley ripped out Huawei-made video communications equipment at one of its off-campus sites, replacing it with an American brand.The freeze by leading research universities should have little effect on Huaweis ability to roll out 5G gear, in which Huawei already is a leader and has no American rival. Still, cutting off Huaweis access to the resources of major U.S. research institutions could have ramifications for Huaweis long-term growth and technical development.It is also a further blow to the companys reputation, at least in the West. Even as Huawei has become a formidable competitor in the global telecom industry, with competitive quality and pricing, it has become a virtual pariah in America.Unlike Europe and Africa where Huaweis equipment is widely used, the companys products, which also include smart phones, have made little headway in the United States. And given the size of the American market and the reach of its technical and economic power, it may prove difficult in the years ahead to ignore the U.S. position.Although U.S. officials have not offered any public proof of security problems with Huawei equipment, such as malicious code or back doors, they argue that Beijing could at any time order Chinese companies to hack into products they make for espionage or sabotage.Huawei has insisted it would never accede to such requests.The Shenzhen-based firm became a technological powerhouse in part by pouring billions of dollars into research and development, internally and with outside partners. The company could be at a disadvantage if it is slow to reap advances in, say, artificial intelligence and all of its potential applications.Huaweis partnership in Berkeley's artificial intelligence research will go on for now because it was already funded. As part of a consortium with other corporate donors that includes Intel and Google, Huawei does not have exclusive rights to any results.Huawei, for its part, has made little public comment about the cut-off in research ties with universities in the United States and some elsewhere, including Oxford. But a top company research official, in a recent newspaper ad that sought to counter U.S. pressure on Europe to ban Huawei, claimed it had never appropriated anyone elses discoveries and thanked European universities for cooperating on mutually beneficial research.All the papers and patents based on joint innovation belong to both sides or to scientists, said Zhou Hong, president of Huaweis European Research Institute.For American universities, its not just about research funds. With more than 400,000 Chinese nationals studying and teaching at U.S. colleges, many schools are concerned that the attention on Huawei and broader U.S.-China tensions could hurt another critical source of revenue: full-tuition-paying students.The University of Illinois, which has also halted new Huawei-funded research projects, carries a $60 million insurance policy to protect against a sudden drop in students from China. Chinese enrollment slipped slightly from 2017 to about 5,800 last year, according to the universitys newspaper.Cornell University is among those that havent placed new restrictions on Huawei research. A university spokesman said the school did a careful review to make sure there were safeguards and that they were in compliance with government laws. She declined to provide additional comment.In 2017, government records show Cornell reported receiving a $3.9 million contract from Huaweis investment arm, the single largest award to the school from a foreign source that year.Berkeleys ties with Huawei and its Silicon Valley research subsidiary, Futurewei Technologies, go back to 2011. Huaweis total gifts to Berkeley since then represent only a speck of the universitys overall research spending.None of Huaweis existing grants to Berkeley involve sensitive technological secrets, said Katz, the vice chancellor. He described Huawei as having been a responsible research partner, and made a point of emphasizing that the university remains committed to upholding international scientific collaboration.Berkeleys chancellor, Carol Christ, worries about the larger relationship with China. She said the university has had a long and deep research relationship with partners like Peking and Tsinghua universities. Many of its faculty were educated in China.Obviously we have to be careful to protect our intellectual property, and I realize there are legitimate concerns about Chinas practices in regard to intellectual property, she said. But nonetheless, I think the world has so much more to profit by the sharing of research than putting up walls. (TNS) The Oregon agency that runs the states foster care and welfare programs announced on Thursday afternoon that the personal information of more than 350 people in those programs might have been comprised, after a Jan. 28 data breach.An unidentified attacker gained access to the states records after nine employees at the Department of Human Services opened so-called phishing emails and clicked on a link that allowed the outside party to gain access to their state email accounts, according to a state press release.The state did not say specifically how many Oregonians might be affected. It did say the breach involved their protected health information. Examples of the types of information that might have been compromised includes first and last names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and case numbers."At this point, it involves all of our programs, agency spokesman Robert Oakes said on Tuesday afternoon. Primarily [the Aging and People with Disabilities Program], child welfare, self-sufficiency and vocational rehabilitation. The agency is checking to see if information was compromised in the program for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Oakes said.The state hired a contractor, IDExperts, to perform a forensic review to figure out the exact number and identities of Oregonians whose information was exposed. Oakes said that firm will also contact the people who were affected and inform them of the availability of free credit monitoring services. The state notified news media of the breach on Thursday in order to comply with a state law that requires entities involved in a data breach to notify people who were affected in the most expeditious manner possible, without unreasonable delay.In a press release, Oregon House Republican Leader Rep. Carl Wilson took the agency to task for not notifying the public sooner.Transparency continues to be a systemic problem at DHS," said Wilson, of Grants Pass. Protection of personal information they are required to provide the state should be given the highest priority. Beyond that, were seeing a growing accountability issue when DHS fails to quickly inform the public about embarrassing matters.With more than 8,000 employees, the Department of Human Services is the largest state agency , with programs including foster care, food stamps and cash assistance also known as welfare.Oregon state government has experienced several data breaches in recent years. A year ago, Oregons tax agency revealed an employee had copied the personal information of 36,000 people . There were also security breaches at the Secretary of States office and Employment Department in 2014 and the state data center in 2015. Romain Grosjean has said that he is pleased with Hass' performance at Australia despite him having another issue in the pit lane which forced him to retire. Grosjean is looking forward to Bahrain where he believes that Haas will be competitive and could even find himself on the podium. Were very satisfied," Grosjean said to F1i.com. "Credit goes to the whole team. They did a fantastic job to adapt to the new rules and design and produce a car which is competitive." Its great for Formula 1 to have a battle like this in the midfield," he pointed out. "I think its very tight. "Were looking forward to the battle because its always good to go to the racetrack and have something to fight for. "It would be fantastic if this was at the front if it could be for first, second and third. Nearly every race could have a different winner. The podium would be filled by more than just three teams!" "Our plan is to be solid in fourth place and fight for being the best-of-the-rest. If something happens to the first three teams, were in a good position to maybe get on the podium. Haas seems to have established themselves as the fourth best team so far but they will be looking to try and get on the podium in Bahrain. General Motors is investing $300 million in its Orion Township, Michigan, assembly plant to produce a new Chevrolet electric vehicle. The new Chevrolet electric vehicle is in addition to the existing Chevrolet Bolt EV and will be designed and engineered off an advanced version of the current Bolt EV architecture. Additional product information and timing for the new Chevrolet EV will be released closer to production. The new Chevrolet EV is in addition to the companys earlier announcement that Cadillac will be the first brand to get vehicles off a future EV platform. The new electric vehicle had been slated for production outside of the US. GM said that the decision to bring it to Orion was based on many factors, including: The Orion plant currently builds the Bolt EV, and the new Chevrolet EV will be based off an advanced version of the same vehicle architecture. Moving production to a US manufacturing plant supports the rules of origin provisions in the proposed United States, Mexico and Canada Agreement. Orion Assembly currently builds the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Chevrolet Sonic and the Cruise AV test vehicles. Including the new investment, GM has invested nearly $1 billion at Orion Assembly since 2009. The announcement is part of GMs new commitment to invest a total of $1.8 billion in its United States manufacturing operations, creating 700 new jobs and supporting 28,000 jobs across six states. This investment commitment includes the recently announced investments at its facilities in Spring Hill, Tennessee; Lansing Delta Township, Michigan; and Romulus, Michigan. Additional facilities receiving investments will be announced later. GM has invested more than $22 billion in its US manufacturing operations since 2009. Hyster Europe is developing a zero-emission reachstacker featuring a hydrogen fuel cell for the Port of Valencia, as part of the European Horizon 2020 program and H2Ports project. The port will be the first in Europe to incorporate hydrogen energy in its operations. A conventional Hyster Reachstacker in operation. An on-board hydrogen fuel cell will charge the battery on the forthcoming fully electric Hyster ReachStacker. The technology will help evolve this industry into a low carbon and zero-emission sector. Jan Willem van den Brand, Director Big Truck Product Strategy and Solutions at Hyster Europe The demonstration site for the H2Ports project will be the MSC Terminal Valencia (MSCTV) in Spain, that can receive todays biggest container ships and has 260,000 m2 of container stacking space. The reachstacker is expected to enter operation in 2021, where it will undergo thorough testing handling laden shipping containers alongside several existing reachstackers. Conventional Hyster Reachstackers are powered by a Cummins diesel engine. In addition to the Cummins engine technologies, Hyster has also introduced new performance optimization developments such as cooling on demand, load sensing hydraulics (power on demand), RPM management and alternate engine idle speed to help further reduce the total fuel consumption of these reach stackers in most applications. The truck architecture incorporates electricity as the main energy source at high voltage to power fully electric motors. Noise levels will be low, and users can expect a reduction in energy costs. The company also expects reduced vehicle maintenance costs thanks to the elimination of the engine, transmission and other mechanical-driven components. Hyster-Yale Group is participating in the H2Ports project alongside the Port Authority of Valencia, the Valenciaport Foundation, the National Hydrogen Center, MSC Terminal Valencia, Grimaldi Group, Atena, Ballard Power Systems Europe and ENAGAS. The project has received funding from the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint undertaking (FCHJU) which also includes the development of an electric yard tractor and the installation of a mobile hydrogen supply station. The H2Ports project follows a similar development in the Port of Los Angeles and the electrification of a Hyster laden container handler powered by a Nuvera fuel cell engine. Photo: Contributed Dalvir Nahal For her tireless work on breaking down cultural barriers and fighting racism, Vernon city councillor Dalvir Nahal has been honoured by the province. Nahal is the founder of the hugely popular Bollywood Bang event, dedicated to increasing awareness of the Sikh culture and history. She has also been involved with numerous other projects focusing on cultural unity. I am so honoured and humbled to receive this award from Premier Horgan because theres so many amazing people who are doing amazing work. So, to be among them is humbling, said Nahal, who received the award at a ceremony in Vancouver Thursday night. So much is changing around the world, and given what happened in New Zealand, I realized we as a society have so much more work to do in promoting diversity, understanding and tolerance. Nahal said she is proud of the way Vernon shows acceptance. The ceremony took place on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Photo: Google Maps RCMP nabbed three break and enter suspects Friday afternoon in Kamloops. Shortly after 1 p.m., police were called to a B&E in progress at a home on the 500 block of Columbia Street W. Swift response resulted in the capture of three male subjects. All are from Kamloops and known to police. No one was injured or threatened in the incident. Police continue to investigate and ask anyone with information to call 250-828-3000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Before we dive into Season Eight of On the Waterfront Greenwich Style, a local soap opera starring state Harbormaster Ian Macmillan and the towns Harbor (mis)Management Commission, a short public service announcement: Boaters who use Cos Cob Harbor need to know that the Metro-North drawbridge will be locked down every weekday from April 9 through June 17. The only exception will be Memorial Day weekend, when track repair work will be suspended, and the bridge will operate under normal conditions. Any boater who wants the bridge opened on other weekend days will have to give 24-hour notice, which can be done by calling 212-340-2050. Now, back to our regularly scheduled Season Eight premiere. (Id recap the first seven years of this melodrama, but this is a newspaper column, not a book.) Do you have a mooring anywhere within the many harbors and inlets that comprise the greater Greenwich Harbor area? If so, and you are a member of a yacht club that gets a blanket permit for its anchorage, you are all set. But if you are one of the 300 or so boat owners whose Greenwich moorings are outside those fields, you need a permit from state Harbormaster Macmillan. And, he would gladly issue permits, but he is frozen out of the towns permitting system. So, if you have paid $75 to the town, and received in turn two permit stickers, one for your boat and one for its mooring float, essentially you have a paid receipt, not a real permit from the only person authorized to issue one. Now, it should be noted that the Harbor Management Commission claims its permits are real. But the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has repeatedly confirmed that only state appointed harbormasters can issue state permits. The HMC claim to legitimacy rests on a document it produced to memorialize a January, 2018 meeting in Greenwich between the state DEEP, Macmillan and Mike Van Oss, who chairs the HMC Mooring Committee. (A committee, by the way, on which Macmillan, as harbormaster, should be a member, but is not. And, he said he has been told he cannot attend meetings, even though all committee meetings are public.) Van Oss wrote nine paragraphs, claiming them to be a summary of agreements about mooring permitting processes reached at the meeting with the state DEEP and the harbormaster. Macmillan first saw that document at the Jan. 17 HMC meeting, a week later. He was not allowed to speak at that meeting but made it clear that he did not agree with the processes outlined. They were trying to cut me out of the permit process. That was never agreed to, he told me this week. Then, on Feb. 17, Van Oss sent Macmillan an email, copying Brian Thompson of the state DEEP, reminding the harbormaster of the nine paragraphs that he had agreed to at the Jan. 10 meeting. But, again, Macmillan had not agreed to the document, and expressed that disagreement in his response. DEEPs Thompson, too, responded to Van Osss email, saying that he thought they had made progress at the meeting, but that this is a local process that needs to be resolved between the HMC and the Harbor Master. I look forward to your resolution of these differences and implementation of a smooth process for issuing mooring permits in the near future. Thompson did not get his hoped-for resolution. The HMC did not acknowledge either the states or Macmillans position that only the harbormaster can issue state mooring permits. Instead, the commission went rogue, creating its own process, freezing Macmillan out of the permit renewal system and usurping the states authority to issue mooring permits. This might seem like much ado about process, but earlier this month one commission member revealed the extent of the HMCs mismanagement, and how it might affect boaters. Appearing in early March before the RTMs Parks and Recreation Committee that was considering his re-nomination to the HMC, William Ingraham told that group that the HMC had identified 117 abandoned moorings that are available for reassignment. Ingraham said, according to the RTM notes, that the existing wait list for moorings should disappear as the abandoned moorings are given to other boat owners. Moorings are expensive, and they are private property. The state forbids anyone but the harbormaster from authorizing removal of this important safety equipment. But the HMC has usurped that power as well, and now contracts with a private marine company to tag abandoned moorings for removal. The HMC considers these moorings abandoned because it cannot find any ownership information within its database. Further, the HMC has claimed that the harbormaster would not share his mooring information gathered over many years. However, Macmillan says, all that information was in a database he gave the commission in January 2018. As state harbormaster, Macmillan has access to the Department of Motor Vehicle database which has strict privacy protocols that prohibit Macmillan from sharing the information with anyone not authorized to use the system. The HMC wanted the information, but Macmillan could only give it to another law enforcement agency. So, he gave it to Police Lt. James Bonney, an ex-officio member of the HMC. I have a copy of a January 2018 email in which Lt. Bonney acknowledges his receipt of the database and that he would make sure it would be used properly by the HMC. At least one RTM member who owns a boat, Luke Szymczak, was surprised at the large number of nameless moorings. In an email he sent to Macmillan, the RTM member said he never received a mooring application from the town, so he assumes his mooring is among the 117 orphans stuck in the mucky bottom of Greenwich Harbor. Macmillan can do nothing to correct the towns database errors because the HMC has decided to deny him contributor access to the town online mooring database. This is a software package used by almost every municipality on Long Island Sound and along the Northeast Coast to manage mooring fields. Greenwich is the only town that prevents its harbormaster from accessing and editing the system. We are a very harbormaster-centric system. Our system design starts with harbormasters, said John Vigilante, owner of MooringInfo, the software provider. Of all the systems we manage, Greenwich is the only one that has frozen out its harbormaster. It is such a convoluted approach to running this. A convoluted process? Thats what I mean by On the Waterfront Greenwich Style. Recent audits of town departments and the Greenwich Public School administration have revealed a lack of coherent systems for basic project management, cash management and accountability. Now, we can add the HMC to the list of dubious distinction. If you are a mooring owner who did not get an application from the HMC this year, watch out. It is coming for your mooring. Bob Horton can be reached at bobhorton@yahoo.com. This editorial appeared in Sunday's Washington Post. - - - With Syria in chaos and Iran seeking to entrench its forces there, Israel has good reason to retain control of the Golan Heights. There is, at the moment, zero international pressure on the government of Benjamin Netanyahu to consider yielding the territory, and that is likely to be true for the foreseeable future. President Donald Trump's tweeted announcement Thursday that the United States will recognize Israel's annexation of the Golan might consequently be written off as gratuitous - except for the damage it will do to U.S. diplomacy, in the Middle East and beyond. For more than half a century, one of the foundations of U.S. Mideast policy has been U.N. Security Council Resolution 242, which called on Israel to yield lands it occupied in the 1967 war for peace with its Arab neighbors. Trump's casual ratification of Israel's annexation, which Washington had resisted since 1981, adds an obstacle to any future peace negotiations between a reconstituted Syria and Israel. Previous Israeli governments, including under Netanyahu, considered a Golan-for-peace deal; what will be the basis for a settlement in the future? We're guessing Trump did not consider that question. Nor did he likely weigh the impact his decision may have on U.S. efforts to prevent other nations from absorbing territory seized by force - such as Russia's annexation of Crimea. The U.S. action will surely encourage Israeli parties that have been agitating for the unilateral annexation of parts of the Palestinian West Bank; now that a precedent has been set, the United States can be pressured to recognize that, too. Trump's decision might be more defensible if it were part of a new and innovative U.S. policy in the region. But, like the move of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, it appears unattached to any strategy other than rewarding Netanyahu, who has become one of Trump's most conspicuous international supporters. The president's tweet came as his ally struggles to fend off pending corruption charges and a stiff challenge in an election due April 9. No one will be surprised if more favors are dispensed when the Israeli leader visits the White House next this week. Trump, like several presidents before him, is trying to sway an Israeli election - only unlike Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, he seeks to help rather than hurt Netanyahu. The Israeli leader is, of course, doing his best to exploit his bond with Trump, including plastering the country with billboards showing the two of them together. Abandoning what was once a standard Israeli practice of cultivating bipartisan support in Washington, Netanyahu has bonded himself to the Republican Party and its polarizing leader. Perhaps that will help him win an unprecedented fifth term as prime minister. The likely damage to long-term Israeli-U.S. relations is a price he and Trump appear happy to accept. OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 5T are now receiving Android 9 Pie Photo: Contributed A pro-life billboard near the intersection of Highway 97 South and Grizzly Road in West Kelowna has become the target of an Ad Standards complaint. The billboard shows the image of a pregnant woman next to a picture of the same woman holding her baby after it is born. The caption reads: 'Our right to life does not depend on our location.' The anonymous complainant says that, The information is grossly inaccurate and misleading to the general public about the facts surrounding the abortion laws and rights in Canada. The photos mislead you, suggesting that people are allowed and are actually aborting full term babies.'' The Societys executive Marlon Bartram says the ad is not inaccurate or misleading because there are no laws prohibiting abortion at any stage in pregnancy in Canada, and therefore one would be correct to infer that from the images. Canada is the only democratic country in the world with zero legal protection for unborn children. By the letter of the law, a child is not considered a human being with rights until she is completely outside her mother's body, and it is legal to abort a baby in Canada at any point during pregnancy, even while it is being born. This is a reality that does not enjoy majority public support,'' Bartram said. The Society will be disputing the complaint with Ad Standards, and expects a decision in April. Haiti - FLASH : At the USA/Caribbean mini-summit, Trump promises with implicit conditions Friday morning at the Hilton Hotel in West Palm Beach, the Heads of State and Government of 5 Caribbean countries: President Jovenel Moise (Republic of Haiti), President Danilo Medina (Dominican Republic) and Prime Ministers Andrew Holness (Jamaica), Allen Chastanet (Saint Lucia) and Hubert Minnis (Bahamas) participated in a preparatory meeting for the USA/Caribbean Mini Summit with John Bolton, US Security Advisor. Discussions focused on the format of the Summit, as proposed by the US State Department and the White House. No precise information has filtered from the American side about what was discussed during this in camera meeting. Following this meeting, the Heads of State and Government traveled to Mar-A-Lago where they were received by President Donald Trump who was accompanied by his wife Melania and several representatives of the US Government, including Acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, White House National Security Advisor John Bolton and Jessica Bedoya Hermann, Director for Central American and Caribbean Affairs of the Security Council. This high-level meeting took place around certain fundamental themes such as governance, energy, security, investment and foreign policy. Hogan Gidley, a White House spokesman, said that during the meeting, Trump discussed the importance of a "peaceful democratic transition" in Venezuela, with the Heads of State and government of these five countries of the subregion, with whom he intends to strengthen relations, which the White House considers "strong". "At the meeting Trump affirmed his commitment to regional economic growth. These relations will enhance cooperation with Venezuela and show strong support for his people and interim President Guaido," said John Bolton. Hogan Gidley revealed that resilience has also been discussed faced the major natural hazards, security cooperation and investment opportunities. On this last point he mentioned that the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), the US Development Finance Agency, will give in 2019 a "priority status" to the Bahamas, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Haiti and the Dominican Republic, noting that in the next 90 days a high-level delegation will visit these countries without giving further details. Commitments of the United States in return for the implicit support of the 5 Summit countries, to American foreign policy against Nicolas Maduro the President of Venezuela, what the Heads of State and Government have understood... According to participants in this mini summit, most of the exchanges with the US President focused on trade and investments for the benefit of all, remaining little about the details ... Learn more about OPIC : The Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), established in 1971 as an agency of the US Government, operates autonomously. The agency is mobilizing private capital to help solve critical development problems advancing US foreign policy and national security goals. Through its collaboration with the US private sector, OPIC helps US companies gain a foothold in emerging markets, generating revenue, jobs and growth opportunities for both the US and Canada. Only for recipient countries. OPIC fulfills its mission by providing investors with financing, political risk insurance and support for private equity funds, when commercial financing can not be obtained elsewhere. To be continued... SL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Economy : MoU in favor of the social responsibility of Haitian companies The Haitian-Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIHC) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to support the private sector in its approach to corporate social responsibility and the also support its contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Haiti by 2030. "CCIHC is pleased to be a major partner in the implementation of the SDGs and proud of its ability to engage key players and representatives of the business community as a whole around ambitious and innovative ideas for sustainable development," rejoiced Claudel Dumas, President of CCIHC. This protocol should help to anchor businesses in their communities, promote wealth creation while calming the social climate, encourage social solidarity, support ecologically sustainable initiatives, encourage more businesses to adopt responsible practices and contribute to improve economic, social, environmental and community indicators. Moreover, on the sidelines of the signing of the protocol, Fernando Hiraldo, UNDP Resident Representative in Haiti, announced that UNDP had just established a new global strategy to create the SDG Accelerator Laboratories "About 60 of these accelerators will be created in 2019 around the world and the program wishes to support the creation of one of these accelerators in Haiti." HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politic : OCID warns of the risks of aggravation of the Haitian crisis The Citizen Observatory for the Institutionalization of Democracy (OCID) expresses its deep concern at the increasing number of decisions and positions taken by political actors, particularly those of the public authorities, which considerably increase the risk factors for worsening the crisis in Haiti. The Observatory therefore believes it is important to raise the alarm bell to draw the attention of decision-makers to the key issues which, given the latest developments in the political situation, seem to have been totally overshadowed by the political struggles at the highest State level. The OCID notes that priority is not given to the measures announced by the executive power https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-26955-haiti-flash-prime-minister-ceant-reveals-9-emergency-measures.html to strengthen the credibility of anti-corruption institutions or to provide a quick response to the misery of vulnerable populations and fight against the high cost of living. Even the 2018-2019 budget, which has been returned to the Government for correction by the Chamber of Deputies has still not been finalized and submitted to Parliament https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27261-haiti-economy-progress-of-imf-loan-of-$229m-suspended.html In a context of strong polarization, the Observatory deplores the inability of decision-makers to engage in a credible dialogue that could lead to the minimum consensus necessary for a thaw of the crisis and the definition of consensual mechanisms for a national basis. All political actors, from all walks of life, as well as those from civil society and the private sector, are unanimous in the recognition that only inclusive and sincere dialogue can create the conditions for political and institutional stability, the holding of elections and the revival of the country's economy. The OCID notes with great concern that the pockets of insecurity continue to grow in the country and that no energetic and sustained action has hitherto been undertaken to reassure the population. The urgency of the current situation of insecurity calls for rapid and effective interventions. The Observatory was shocked to learn that the Electoral Council's draft electoral law and organic law, which had been available since November 2018, have still not been introduced in Parliament. This nonchalance is, to say the least, paradoxical when one considers the speed with, for example, the interpellation of a Prime Minister being liquidated. On the strength of these alarming findings, the OCID recommends to the decision-makers of the country and in particular, to the Head of State and to both Houses of Parliament: To take strong action affirming their political will to work for the stabilization of the country, in particular through the implementation and strengthening of the economic and social measures announced in February 2019, and the adoption and implementation of implementation of a coherent plan to fight against insecurity; To take stock of the dialogue initiatives already undertaken, in the light of the criticisms made and the proposals made by various sectors, to finally engage in a more credible dialogue process, which can reassure a maximum of political actors and the Civil society ; To give priority to the projects or bills that they deserve (including the 2018-2019 budget, the Electoral Council's draft organic law, the draft electoral law, the draft law on political parties) and agreements whose adoption is crucial to avoid worsening the crisis in the months and years to come; To put an end to the polemic between politicians and state institutions, which only erodes the image of the institutions and further weakens an already fragile and troubled state to fulfill its sovereign functions; To stop the trivialization of social demands, an attitude that will have no other consequence than the radicalization of the challenge. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-26955-haiti-flash-prime-minister-ceant-reveals-9-emergency-measures.html HL/ HaitiLibre It would be a "mistake" for India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition and its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness, President Arif Alvi said on Saturday as Islamabad displayed its military might on the National Day. Alvi was addressing the annual Pakistan Day Parade here to commemorate the resolution passed by the All-India Muslim League on the day in 1940 in Lahore demanding a separate country for Muslims. The National Day featured a joint parade by the army, air force and navy, display of military hardware, along with open and veiled anti-India rhetoric. "It was the duty and responsibility of Pakistan to respond to the Indian aggression... We responded with better strategy," Alvi said, apparently referring to the downing of an Indian Air Force jet. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group JeM killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation against a JeM training camp in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Alvi said India's actions jeopardised peace in the region. "It would a mistake on part of India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition. Doing so would be very dangerous for the region's stability. "India will have to accept Pakistan as a reality, and it must come to the conclusion that dialogue is the only way to resolve issues," Alvi said at the ceremony where Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was the guest of honour. He said Pakistan wants peaceful co-existence but its "desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness". "We are a peaceful nation, but are not oblivious to our defence, and the same has been proved in the recent demonstration of Pakistan's defence capability," he said, adding that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and respects integrity and sovereignty of other states. Alvi said the country is safe and moving on the path of progress and development after effectively combating the menace of terrorism. The president also inspected the parade before his address. Prime Minister Imran Khan, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mehmood Hayat, army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, naval chief Admiral Zafar Mehmood Abbasi and Chief of Air Staff Mujahid Anwar Khan attended the ceremony. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Contingents, paratroopers and fighter jets from Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, China, Bahrain and Sri Lanka also took part in the parade. Shahper and Buraq drones were also displayed in the parade along with different missile systems including Nasr, Babur, Shaheen 1, Ghuri, Shaheen 111 among others, and defence systems as well as tanks. The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were also offered in mosques after morning prayers for the country's progress and prosperity. -PTI Haiti - News : Zapping... Master in Hydraulic Engineering / Sanitation in Haiti : On Thursday, the State University of Haiti (UEH), in partnership with the National Directorate of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DINEPA), launched a master's program in hydraulic engineering and sanitation. This program aims to provide DINEPA with qualified professionals able to solve problems related to the study, management and use of surface water. First Government Council for PM Lapin Less than 24 hours after its presentation to the Nation by President Jovenel Moise https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27249-haiti-flash-ceant-handed-his-resignation-after-the-installation-of-lapin.html acting Prime Minister, Jean Michel Lapin chaired his first Council of Government to the Primature. Several topics were on the agenda among others : the expedition of daily business, the progress of the budget, the treatment of contracts and appointments in progress, administrative measures including the management of vehicles... Distribution of 50 tons of seeds As part of the spring 2019 campaign in Cornillon commune, the Ministry of Agriculture has distributed 50 tonnes of quality black bean, pigeon pea, sorghum and cassava and sweet potato cuttings as well as agricultural tools. Several thousand hectares of land will be cultivated during the spring 2019 campaign. PetroCaribe investigates at the State Lottery This week, Margareth Fortune, the Director General of the Haitian State Lottery (LEH), received a delegation from the Superior Court of Accounts and Administrative Litigation (CSC/CA) concerning an amount of 107 million gourdes from the PetroCaribe fund awarded the lottery in 2013. Fortune gave instructions to the various internal departments to find all records relating to this amount in the shortest time. Sexual abuse of UN staff As part of United Nations efforts to prevent and eliminate cases of sexual exploitation and abuse by its staff, Minujusth and UN agencies in Haiti are organizing with the support of the Thames Cultural Association, March 22 to April 6, 2019, a theater tour in Port-au-Prince and some provincial towns. This sensitization project of the local population aims to inform them on the means of preventing cases of sexual exploitation and sexual abuse and to make them aware of the various complaints mechanisms that exist in the UN system. Installation of 12 agronomists This week, 12 agricultural engineers were installed in the West Agricultural Bureau of Croix des Bouquets HL/ HaitiLibre The Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center in Hampton Bays was founded by Virginia Frati in the late 1990s to provide care and rehabilitation for injured wildlife. It's the only facility of its kind on Long Island. The Center cares for and rehabilitates injured wildlife until they are able to be released back into the wild. Some that cannot be fully rehabilitated have permanent homes there. Saunders & Associates agent Jane Gill, a member of the Center's Board of Directors, is involved in making major decisions, and as a trained handler for birds of prey she is... Gardai at the scene of the first arson incident at Tyrone Place A man who set fire to an apartment with three children inside has been jailed for 10 years. Ian O'Connor (29), of Emmet Crescent, Inchicore, Dublin, threw a petrol bomb at another family home less than a month later, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard. He pleaded guilty to arson at Tyrone Place, Inchicore, on September 18, 2017. He also pleaded guilty to arson at Ailesbury Road, Dublin, on October 15, 2017. The court heard that in the first arson, the heat of the fire caused a hearing aid to melt in a seven-year-old's ear, leaving her with a permanent scar. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced O'Connor to 12 years' imprisonment for the first arson, but suspended the final two years on condition that he keep the peace and engage with the Probation Service for two years on his release. Trapped Judge Greally also sentenced him to six years' imprisonment for the later arson, to run concurrently with the other sentence. She backdated all sentences to the day O'Connor went into custody - March 9, 2018. Detective Inspector David Harrington told Tony McGillicuddy BL, prosecuting, that on the date in September, Margaret Green was asleep in her apartment along with her three children and woke to find the stairs on fire. Ms Green was trapped upstairs by the fire and tried unsuccessfully to smash the windows to escape. She covered her two youngest children with wet towels and was choking on smoke when they were rescued by the fire brigade. Her eldest son had fallen asleep while watching television downstairs and woke up to the sight of the front door on fire. He escaped via a balcony at the back of the apartment with the help of a neighbour. O'Connor admitted starting the fire by pouring petrol in the letterbox and on the front door. He said he owed money to certain persons who had instructed him to light the fire and had told him that there would be no one in the house. Det Insp Harrington agreed with Caroline Biggs SC, defending, that O'Connor believed that had he not lit the fire, then his family would be pipe-bombed. In a victim impact statement, which was read out in court, Ms Green said that her seven-year-old daughter's hearing aid had melted in the fire, causing a permanent scar to her ear. The court heard all four members of the family had sustained injuries. Ms Green said she thought that she and her family were all going to die. Detective Garda Shane Cahill told Mr McGillicuddy that in the second attack, William Godson woke to find flames outside the kitchen window of the home of his parents and two younger siblings. He grabbed bottles of water and used them to douse the fire. O'Connor told gardai that he got an offer of 2,000 to put a petrol bomb through a window and was told that there was no one in the house, but he had not been paid as it had not worked. He said he had brought two petrol bombs to the house but had only thrown one. A dangerous driver with more than 100 previous convictions who led gardai on a high-speed chase in west Dublin had already been banned from driving for 40 years, a court has heard. Graham Taylor (29) sped away from a garda who recognised him while stopped at a junction. He was driving at more than 120kph in a 50kph zone while families were "out and about" on Father's Day. Taylor, of Kiltalown Park, Tallaght, had pleaded not guilty to three counts of endangerment and three of dangerous driving. He was tried by a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court jury and found guilty. Judge Karen O'Connor adjourned sentencing to next week. At yesterday's hearing, Detective Garda David Jennings said he was driving an unmarked patrol car at Brookfield Road, Tallaght, at 12.30pm on June 19, 2016. As he waited for the lights to change at a junction, he saw a blue VW Passat coming from the direction of the Naas Road. He recognised Taylor driving. When the lights turned green, the Passat took off at high speed, breaking another red light and overtaking traffic, driving on the wrong side of the road and forcing oncoming cars to brake hard. It went the wrong way round Molly Heffernan's Roundabout, nearly colliding with cars. Traffic had to brake hard and mount the footpath to avoid it on Fortunestown Lane. The patrol car followed at 120kph in a 100kph zone, with the Passat pulling away from it, Det Gda Jennings said. It drove past Lidl at high speed on the wrong side of the road and up Citywest Road before the officers lost sight of it. There were lots of families out and about as it was Father's Day, Det Gda Jennings said. Difficulties Taylor had 121 previous convictions, including nearly 100 for motoring offences. Defence barrister Karl Monahan said the incident lasted for two minutes and there were no collisions or injuries. Taylor now had a young child and was motivated to tackle his difficulties with cannabis and cocaine use, Mr Monahan said. He had been drug-free for 18 months. He was remanded in custody to a date next week. Ronnie Wilde foolishly aligned himself with one side in row A teenager threw a 16-inch knife out of a window as armed gardai intercepted a vehicle which had earlier been seen outside a hostel waiting for another individual, a court has heard. Some members of Ronnie Wilde's extended family were involved in a dispute at the time and he "foolishly and momentarily" aligned himself with one side. Detectives from the Armed Support Unit (ASU) stopped the vehicle after gardai received two emergency calls. Judge Paula Murphy ordered a probation report and adjourned sentencing until May. Wilde (18), of Clanbrassil Terrace, Dublin 8, admitted possession of a 16in knife at Chesterfield Avenue in Phoenix Park last November 19. Sergeant Geraldine McManigan told Blanchardstown District Court that gardai received a 999 call in relation to a number of males in a vehicle who were outside a hostel and appeared to be waiting for an individual. Sgt McManigan said gardai then received a second 999 call that the same vehicle was in Phoenix Park. Intercepted She said the detectives from the ASU intercepted the car. Wilde was a passenger in the vehicle and gardai saw him discard a 16in knife out the window. When gardai searched the vehicle, they found a 12in knife, a broken hurl and an extendable baton, which belonged to the other two people in the vehicle. The court heard Wilde had 37 previous convictions. Defence solicitor Simon Fleming said Wilde's father died when he was young, and he had grown up mostly in the care of the State. He had a number of siblings, as well as a large extended family, and currently lived with his grandmother. In relation to this incident, Mr Fleming said there was a dispute between first cousins on the defendant's mother's side. Wilde "foolishly and momentarily aligned himself to a faction in that dispute", he said, but was no longer involved in it. Mr Fleming also said Wilde came from "a more troubled background" than nearly any other youngster he dealt with. The suspect package at the National Return Letter Centre in Limerick Specialist gardai are examining a fifth "love bomb" addressed to a major London transport hub after it was discovered in an sorting office here. The envelope containing the viable explosive was discovered in the National Return Letter Centre in Limerick at around 6am yesterday and led to an immediate evacuation of the building. It had a return address for Dublin and has been described as being "identical" to other letter bombs sent to the UK earlier this month. It was later defused by the Army's bomb squad and handed over to gardai for analysis. The New IRA claimed responsibility for the letter bombs earlier this month after contacting a newspaper and giving a recognised code word. The dissident group said that in total five devices had been sent, but only four were discovered in England and Scotland. Gardai believe the letter bomb found yesterday is the fifth explosive sent. Expand Close Garda at An Post sorting centre on the Dock road, Limerick. Photo: Liam Burke/Press 22 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Garda at An Post sorting centre on the Dock road, Limerick. Photo: Liam Burke/Press 22 Dissident Counter-terrorism gardai are continuing to liaise with their colleagues in the UK in an effort to identify those behind the letter bomb campaign. The dissident group is being treated as the main suspect for the series of postal explosives but gardai have stressed that other lines of inquiry are also being explored. The envelope was addressed to Charing Cross railway station, near London's Trafalgar Square, but was returned to Ireland by the Royal Mail. The return address given was Ireland Tourism Dublin but it was sent back to the postal centre in Limerick where undeliverable mail is sent. It was returned on March 5 - the same day that explosive devices were found at London City and Heathrow airports, as well as Waterloo railway station. The following day a similar bomb arrived at the University of Glasgow. None of the devices exploded, but the device sent to Heathrow briefly ignited, although no injuries were reported. A senior source last night told the Herald that detailed analysis of the device would be carried out by gardai to recover evidence which could identify a suspect. "It will obviously go through all the relevant tests. We will look for DNA, fingerprints and gardai will also be examining the components of the bomb to see where they came from," the source said. "How much incendiary was in the bomb has not yet been determined but a real danger would have been it catching fire in a mail room and spreading through other envelopes and letters, which would have caused serious damage and risk to workers in postal centres that this envelope passed through." Detectives have not yet been able to establish the exact location from where the letter bombs were sent, but are satisfied they were posted within Ireland. One of the letter bombs sent to the UK had a return address for Bus Eireann in Dublin. The investigation involves detectives based at Henry Street Garda Station, who are being assisted by a number of garda national units including the Special Detective Unit (SDU) and members of the Security and Intelligence Section. The Defence Forces said that its Army Bomb Disposal Team was requested to the An Post centre on Dock Road, Limerick, by gardai and arrived at 9.50am. "On arrival, a cordon was established and the building was evacuated for the duration of the operation," it said. "A viable improvised explosive device contained in a plastic envelope was identified and made safe. The device was then handed over to An Garda Siochana for further investigation and the scene was declared safe. "Should members of the public encounter suspicious items, or hazardous substances, they are advised to maintain a safe distance and inform An Garda Siochana." Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said the sending of a suspected letter bomb was "an absolutely despicable act". Mr Flanagan also linked the finding of the suspect package in Limerick to the discovery in the UK of explosive devices posted in letters. He said that the incident was "a dreadful consequence of the uncertainty surrounding Brexit where in the context of the heightened tensions in Northern Ireland, on the island of Ireland, people have taken it upon themselves to send letter bombs - an absolutely despicable act". Mr Flanagan noted that four similar letters arrived in Britain around two weeks ago and intelligence had suggested that there had been five. "This could well be the fifth. As yet it's unconfirmed but I understand gardai are actively engaged on the ground in Limerick," he said. He told RTE Radio's Today With Sean O'Rourke that he has reason to believe it was linked to those in the UK. Unacceptable "I have to say that the sending of incendiary devices or letter bombs like that is a totally unacceptable act and I would hope that those responsible could certainly be brought to justice," Mr Flanagan added. "I know that gardai are actively engaged as we speak." Gardai said that the parcel appeared "to be identical to parcels discovered earlier this month in London and Glasgow". A spokesman for An Post said: "With the exception of some parcel dispatches, Limerick mail deliveries were disrupted by events at An Post Dock Road depot this morning." The New IRA has already carried out a car bomb attack outside a courthouse in Derry city in January. The faction is regarded by An Garda Siochana and the PSNI as the most dangerous terrorist group since the Provisional IRA declared a ceasefire more than two decades ago. The terror group has more than 50 activists and another 200 supporters, and some have acquired counter-surveillance skills by attending courses in countries such as the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Gardai pictured at the scene of the fatal car crash on the Drumcondra Road A horrific car crash in Dublin has claimed the lives of a young mother-of-two and a great-grandfather. The victims, named locally as John 'Pops' Nulty (72) and Rachel Coughlan (34), were killed in the head-on collision on the Drumcondra Road Lower at around 6.30am yesterday. It's understood that Mr Nulty, who is originally from Balbriggan, was on his way to a hospital appointment when the crash happened. "I was his best friend for years. He's the type of person to give you the moon and the stars and expect nothing in return," a family friend told the Herald. Movements Gardai are attempting to establish Ms Coughlan's movements early yesterday morning and are working to establish if she was present at a house in the area with a number of people before the tragic collision. Expand Close Rachel Coughlan and John Pops Nulty died in the smash / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Rachel Coughlan and John Pops Nulty died in the smash Emergency services were alerted to the incident but both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. Their bodies were removed to the Dublin City Morgue in nearby Whitehall, where post-mortem examinations will be carried out to confirm the causes of death. Officers attached to Mountjoy Garda Station are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and have appealed for witnesses to come forward. At this stage, investigators believe one of the vehicles crossed the road and collided with the other. Expand Close John Pops Nulty / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp John Pops Nulty However, sources stressed examinations into the tragedy are at a very early stage and further inquiries will be carried out. Drumcondra Road Lower was sealed-off for several hours yesterday as members of the Garda Technical Bureau carried out an examination of the scene, along with forensic collision investigators. Tributes were last night paid to Mr Nulty, who is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as his siblings. Rachel Coughlan, who is originally from Dublin's north-inner city, is survived by her two young sons. "A man in his 70s and woman in her 30s (both sole occupants of the vehicles) were fatally injured in a road traffic collision on the Drumcondra Rd Lower," a statement from the garda press office said. "Gardai are appealing to motorists with dashcams or anyone travelling on Drumcondra Rd Lower between 6.15am and 6.45am to contact Mountjoy Garda Station on 016668600, the Garda Confidential Line 1800-666-111 or any Garda station." The accident has brought to 41 the number of people who have died on Irish roads so far this year. Gardai have expressed concern about the rise in fatal incidents compared to 2018. "Road deaths have increased by nearly 30pc in 2019. "This upward trend must be addressed immediately and An Garda Siochana appeal to every road user to re-double their efforts and to use the road as safely as they possibly can," gardai said in a statement. An aurora borealis similar to this one may be visible tonight Budding stargazers have been advised to keep an eye on the skies this weekend, as a phenomenon similar to the Northern Lights may be visible over Ireland, an astronomy expert has said. Glowing in the sky - an aurora borealis - is mostly known as the Northern Lights. They are quite often visible over Iceland. They are created by disturbances in the Earth's magnetosphere caused by a flow of particles from the Sun, and are usually concentrated around the Earth's magnetic poles. Astronomy Ireland magazine editor David Moore said that there is a "good chance" that the lights will be visible over Ireland. "There is definitely a good chance, we never know with these things. We're hoping it would be visible," Mr Moore told the Herald. "Certainly over Donegal, as the horizon looks over the ocean where there are no facing lights, but it's been seen all over the country before, even as far down as Cork." Dark Mr Moore explained that a dark sky will be needed to see the lights clearly, but advised the public to keep an eye out tonight. "We're hoping it'll be extra strong," he said. "We're advising everyone to be watching the northern horizon, especially if you've got a great dark sky. We haven't had a good one in years so this could be the one." The southward shift of the lights taking place today is caused by an ejection of plasma, known as a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun, which followed a solar flare on Wednesday. According to Met Eireann, today is expected to be cloudy during the day. However, some bright spells are expected to emerge and it will be mainly dry overnight - meaning the lights may be visible. In the UK, the Met Office's Space account tweeted: "CME forecast to arrive late 23rd March following C5 flare from sunspot AR2736. Active-minor geomagnetic storm periods possible with low risk of moderate storms. "As a result, aurora may be visible in Scotland where cloud breaks." Astronomy Ireland is encouraging members to submit any photos of the aurora to the magazine at astronomy.ie. Earlier this year, stargazers here got to see a total lunar eclipse and a supermoon. The astronomical phenomena, which happened at the end of January, was the last such event until 2022. Dublin Port's decision to restrict cruise ship traffic could result in serious knock-on costs, says Simon Coveney. He cited Cork, Waterford and Belfast, which have massively benefited from the growth of tourism. The port has blamed Brexit for its decision to reduce the number of cruise ships allowed to dock each year from 160 to 80. The port is trying to increase provision for freight and container traffic in the light of the UK's departure from the EU. The Tanaiste confirmed he has raised the issue within Government because of its potential knock-on cost to other Irish ports. "Cruise liner traffic has been increasing year-on-year in Dublin, but, of course, there is a space problem for Dublin Port," he said. He added the port had to prioritise how it used that space in the context of Brexit, with more freight passing through it. Discussion "But I do think there needs to be a further discussion in terms of how Dublin Port can find a way of giving leadership on cruise liner traffic because, of course, that impacts on Cork, Waterford, Killybegs, Dingle and Belfast in terms of attracting more cruise liner ships. "When they visit Dublin, they will also visit ports around the island of Ireland. So, we do need to try to ensure these decisions are made in the context of the national interest as well as the difficult commercial decisions that Dublin Port has to make given the confined nature of the port facilities that they have." Dublin Port insisted its cruise liner decision was rooted in commercial pragmatism. Dublin Port chief executive Eamon Reilly said it had no option but to ration available port capacity given the competition for berth spaces and the looming implications of Brexit. However, the decision to restrict cruise liner numbers is seen as a blow to ports including Cork, Waterford and Belfast given the boom in the cruise liner trade over the past decade. Dublin, Cork and Belfast have enjoyed their greatest seasons since the heyday of the 1950s. Both Dublin and Cork are set to welcome record liner numbers this year. Cork hosted 92 cruise ships last year and hopes to exceed that figure by 10pc in 2019. However, any Dublin decision to restrict cruise liner visits will inevitably hit the port and others around Ireland. So great is the expansion of the cruise liner sector that Cobh, Ireland's busiest liner port, is considering a second cruise liner berth at Lynch's Quay. Theresa May has hinted she may not bring her deal back to parliament for a third time Work is under way to ensure there is no hard border on the island of Ireland even in the event the UK crashes out of the EU with no deal. Ireland is not "sitting on our hands" when it comes to thinking about ways of avoiding such a Border if a disorderly Brexit occurs, Tanaiste Simon Coveney said last night. While he insisted it was too soon for formal talks on how to avoid the return of Border checks in a no-deal scenario, Mr Coveney said there will have to be special arrangements on this island. It is understood negotiations are ongoing in the background about how to achieve this. Any potential solution will have to be agreed by the Irish and British governments, in conjunction with the European Commission. Unique Expand Close Taoiseach Leo Varadkar / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Taoiseach Leo Varadkar It comes after German Chancellor Angela Merkel was reported as telling other EU leaders that they need to start thinking about a fallback plan for protecting the Good Friday Agreement. This week's EU summit was the first time the leaders of the 27 remaining member states talked in serious terms about the implications of the UK crashing out without a deal. Speaking at the Fine Gael National Conference in Wexford, Mr Coveney said that the UK had already published a paper which acknowledged the North needed special arrangements. "That is a paper which recognises that Northern Ireland is unique and different to the rest of the UK in terms of tariff treatment and Border checks," he said. "Whether there is a deal or no deal, the way we will resolve these issues will involve some form of regulatory alignment." Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Theresa May hinted that she might not bring her European Union withdrawal deal back to parliament for a third time next week if there was not enough support for it to be passed. Mrs May's Brexit deal has already been twice rejected by MPs but the prime minister was expected to try a third time next week. An EU summit on Thursday granted an extension to Britain's departure from the bloc in an attempt to give her time to get her deal through parliament, but in a letter to lawmakers yesterday, she suggested that such support might not be forthcoming. "If it appears there is not sufficient support to bring the deal back next week, or the house rejects it again, we can ask for another extension before April 12 - but that will involve holding European Parliament elections," she wrote in a letter published on Twitter by a BBC reporter. Choice Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said that if the UK does end up leaving the EU without an exit deal it will be entirely by its own choice. "We all need to bear in mind that nobody wants a no-deal here. "But no-deal, if it happens, will be a British choice," he said this week. The Taoiseach added that it was the UK which chose Brexit in the first place and it was the UK which fixed the March 29 deadline. The UK did not need permission to revoke the Article 50 exit process - and resume EU membership right up to the deadline, Mr Varadkar said. In the House of Commons, a cross-party group of pro-EU MPs claim they have the numbers to force a series of "indicative votes" on alternatives to the Brexit deal. 'So much we want the public to know': Meritus COVID cases surge again Two Hindu teenaged girls in Pakistan were allegedly kidnapped and forcibly converted to Islam on Holi eve in Dharki town of Sindhs Ghotki district. This led the Hindu community to stage massive protests, seeking stern action against the perpetrators and reminding Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan of his assurance to minorities. Pakistan Hindu Sewa Welfare Trust Sanjesh Dhanja president told TOI over phone from Karachi on Friday that two sisters Raveena, 13 and Reena, 15 were allegedly abducted and forcibly converted to Islam after their marriage. Religious minorities in Pak suffering due to persecution, says Hindu trust chief Pakistan Hindu Sewa Welfare Trust chief alleged that the police only lodged an FIR after the minority community came out on the streets to protest. Imran Khan had recently tweeted, Naya Pakistan is Quaids (Jinnah) Pakistan and we will ensure that our minorities are treated as equal citizens, unlike what is happening in India. The tweet had stirred a controversy. Anjum James Paul, assistant professor of political science and head of department, Government Post Graduate College, Samundri, Pakistan, posted a poser for Imran Khan on his Facebook page: And now who will stand (up) for Reena, Raveena and Sadaf Khan, Hindu and Christian Pakistani minor girls, who have been snatched from parents after abduction and conversion in February and March. Emphasising on stopping forced conversions and marriages of minor Christian and Hindu girls in Pakistan, he exhorted the Pakistan PM to stand up against the violation of minority rights in Pakistan. Seeking to remind the Pakistan PM of his promise to protect the rights of religious minorities made during the election campaign in 2018, he said, the situation is the same even in New Pakistan, and religious minorities are suffering due to discrimination and persecution. He said the two sisters were abducted and converted when they were celebrating Holi on March 20, while Sadaf Khan, a 13-year-old Christian girl was abducted, converted and married on February 6. Dhanja further said that before this two other Hindu girls, Komal and Sonia, were abducted and forcibly converted. Source : TOI The business cycle conditions in the economy are usually measured by a number of series. The most important among these in India has been the Gross Domestic Product. However, the GDP data is difficult to use for business cycle measurement as the change in the base year and definitions in the new series were so different from the old ones that analysing trends between different business cycles could not be made possible. There are other measurement issues as well. The data problem was compounded by the fact that the disruption caused by demonetisation and the imposition of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) to the informal sector meant that the ratio of production between the formal and the informal sector was no longer what it used to be. Quarterly GDP calculations typically assume that this ratio is fixed because data for the informal sector is hard to come by while also being calculated infrequently. This meant that the GDP could no longer be used for measuring business cycle conditions. At the same time, the pick up in the formal sector was also slow as the move to demonetise 86% of Indias high-value notes in November 2016 had created a demand shock because household incomes had fallen. The fact that demonetisation was soon followed by the implementation of the GST, which brought a new form of tax compliance procedures along with multiple and high rates and other administrative issues, the informal sector also did not show a pick up. In addition to the data issue and the difficulties in measuring the changing share of the formal and informal sector, there is also the issue of the deeper transformation of the economy. If we expect an economy to be in transition, where production is shifting to the formal sector, it would not be correct to measure the sum of the formal and informal sectors to assess the total. While it would, of course, give the picture of growth at any point of time, it would not tell us about the trends and whether the objective of the GST reform was achieved or not. That can, and should, be measured by examining whether there was a revival in the formal sector. It is only after the transition is over and equilibrium is achieved that the total GDP growth may reflect the true state of the economy again. Given the above difficulties, we analyse the formal sector data to assess business cycle conditions and the impact of GST. Overall, we expect the GST to have a big positive effect as low productive firms get pushed out, the duration in transporting goods come down (with the removal of checkposts), and various innovative but inefficient ways of operating businesses in the attempt to reduce taxes become redundant. One way of examining the performance of the formal sector is to look at the sales figure of the companies. Since oil sales figure depend on global oil prices and since financial firms do not have a comparable measure of the sales, a meaningful indicator is to look at the sales of non-oil, non-finance firms. The Prowess database of Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) contains both listed and unlisted firms. Data on sales in nominal rupee terms is aggregated from quarterly figures, seasonally adjusted (there is seasonality in the quarterly data), and an index is created. We then look at the quarter-on-quarter growth of this index. The graph shows quarter-on-quarter growth of the net sales of listed firms. We see a long period of poor performance after 2011. In recent quarters, there has been a recovery. We see that up to the third quarter of 2017 values in some quarters were negative or below 1%. These are net sales growth measured in nominal values which indicates that in real terms the growth was even lower. In the last five quarters, growth has been high. We are finally seeing evidence of formalisation of the economy as the GST regime stabilises. The Indian economy is in transition and there may be ups and downs before the business cycle conditions stabilise. A critical factor in that would be whether private corporate investment, which has been slumbering since 2011-12, picks up. Ila Patnaik is an economist and a professor at the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy The views expressed are personal By special arrangement with ThePrint Actor Kangana Ranaut turns 32 on Saturday. To kick off the celebrations, bring you the best things she has given to the world other than her moviesher amazing quotes. Kangana is known for her outspoken and courageous take on things and is not the one to cower before anybody. She took on big Bollywood directors, actors and more and in that process, she gave us some of the most quotable quotes of all time. She recently called out Bollywood for not supporting her films while asking her to show up for their screenings all the time. Apart from directly attacking actors like Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor, the actor also reportedly expressed her displeasure over Aamir Khan not attending the trials of her films. When asked if she planned to join politics or to participate in an election campaign, Kangana said: I dont have any intention to join politics or an election campaign of a political party. Many people feel that I want to enter politics but thats not true. There are few actors in our industry like Ranbir Kapoor where he has been seen talking in an interview that We have regular supply of water and electricity at my home so, why should I comment about politics? But I feel because of this countrys people you are living in your luxurious home and you are travelling in your Mercedes so, how can you talk like that? This is irresponsible behaviour and I am not that kind of person. Just another day in the life of Kangana Ranaut. Also read: Delhi Crime review: Gut-wrenching, shocking; the best Indian Netflix show since Sacred Games She also said that her many fallouts in the industry happened because she was always presented with do-or-die situations in which she always fought for her survival. I come from a situation where I really do not have a backup plan. I dont have a plan B. Its not like I wake up in the morning and think about Oh wait a minute. How many people can I offend today and how to make my life difficult? Thats not how it is. ... The kind of story I have I wasnt left with an option. I wish they did. I wish they let me do my thing and I wish there wasnt this do or die situation. I would have preferred it like that. But if one of us has to do die I will make sure that it is not me, Kangana said. So on her birthday, we bring you her 10 quotes that might just empower you to be more bold. Check them out: Follow @htshowbiz for more Comedian Kapil Sharma has shared a picture with actor Akshay Kumar and thanked him for giving him and wife Ginni Chatrath a surprise visit. He also said that he is keen on watching Kesari, Akshay Kumars latest release. Sharing a picture, Kapil wrote: Congratulations for the biggest n grand opening of #kesari @akshaykumar paji.. cant wait to watch it,n thanks for the surprise visit with @ghuggigurpreet paji love u both @ginnichatrath #love #friendship #gratitude. Also in the picture are Kapils wife Ginni and Punjabi actor Gurpreet Ghuggi. Kesari has proved to be the second biggest opener in Akshays career, earning 21.50 crore on day 1, the first being Gold which made 25.25 crore. Tweeting about Kesari, trade analyst Taran Adarsh wrote: #Kesari roars... Sets the BO on ... Emerges the biggest opener of 2019 [so far]... After limited shows in morning/noon [#Holi festivities], the biz witnessed massive growth from 3 pm/4 pm onwards... Evening shows saw terrific occupancy... Thu 21.50 cr. India biz. #Kesari roars... Sets the BO on ... Emerges the biggest opener of 2019 [so far]... After limited shows in morning/noon [#Holi festivities], the biz witnessed massive growth from 3 pm/4 pm onwards... Evening shows saw terrific occupancy... Thu 21.50 cr. India biz. taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) March 22, 2019 Kesaris feat is particularly commendable since Holi release can prove to be bit of a dampener as most theatre halls and malls remain shut during the day in the first half, revealed film exhibitor Akshaye Rathi to HT. Also read: Priyanka Chopras in-laws reveal new details about her wedding with Nick Jonas, mother Denise says photos didnt do it justice Kesari tells the story of the heroic fight in 1897 between 21 Sikh soldiers of the Sikh regiment of the British Indian Army against a force of 10,000 Pashtun tribesmen. Kapil Sharma is enjoying his return to The Kapil Sharma Show. Speaking about him and how wedding with Ginni Chatrath has helped him, comedian Bharti Singh had said that Kapil had become patient and calm. Speaking to Pinkvilla, she had said: Ginni is taking great care of Kapil, right from yoga to sending him to the gym to boiled vegetables and everything else. Kapil bhai has also become very calm and patient. Follow @htshowbiz for more Actor Salman Khan was in Jaipur on Friday to attend the wedding of South Indian actor Venkateshs daughter, Aashritha Daggubati, according to a report in Times Now. Pictures of Salman, posing with Venkatesh and actor Rana Daggubati were shared by actor and politician Bina Kak. In another picture, Bina posed with Salman and Venkatesh and wrote: Congratulations Venky! Salman and Venkatesh are known to be good friends. The report added that many other well-known names from the film industry also attended the functions. Aashritha Daggubati got married to her boyfriend Vinayak Reddy. According to a report in Times of India, Aashrita got engaged to Vinayak at her fathers residence in Hyderabad in February this year. Aashrita is a professional baker and runs an Instagram page called Infinity Platter. Also read: Priyanka Chopras in-laws reveal new details about her wedding with Nick Jonas, mother Denise says photos didnt do it justice Salman was recently in Dubai for Da-Bangg tour, which got cancelled due to bad weather. He had shared a video with his fans explaining the reason. He said: We were supposed to perform in Dubai. However the city has been hit by bad weather. There has been a hailstorm and rain. Due to this, we had to cancel todays programme. We are very sad about it. We had come with a lot of preparation to perform. We were very excited too. This is the truth and dont believe anything else. Salman is busy with his upcoming film Bharat. The films shooting was wrapped up in early March and Bharats female lead, Katrina Kaif made the announcement. Venkateshs latest release F2, which released in January this year, has been appreciated by audience. Directed by Anil Ravipudi, the film is a story of a married man and another who is about to get married. Follow @htshowbiz for more Once again an Indian election is taking place without any clear dividing line between the Left and Right. Following Rahul Gandhis famous suit boot ki sarkar jibe, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has gone out of its way to create an image of being pro-poor. This has always been the image the Congress has presented to the electorate. So there is no professedly Rightist party in the field. At the same time, neither the BJP nor the Congress are advocating radical socialism. This lack of radicalism runs counter to the trend elsewhere in the world. Take America. On the one hand, there is Donald Trump with his business-friendly policies and opposition to Obamas healthcare plan. But there is also the committed socialist, Bernie Sanders, who entered the last race for the Democrats presidential candidate as a complete outsider and won 23 states and 47% pledged party delegates. He is in the race again, and this time, he is definitely not an outsider. In Britain, the leading Brexiteers who have been making life so miserable for prime minister Theresa May with their insistence that she makes a clean break with the European Union are on the right of the right-wing Conservative party . On the left, you have the Labour party captured by Jeremy Corbyn, who stands for a return to old fashioned socialism, including nationalisation and high taxes for the rich and for businesses. The newly-elected democrat Congresswomen and prominent Sanders supporter, Alexandria OcasioCortez, has accused those who stand on the safe middle ground in her party of cynicism. Weve become so cynical that we view cynicism as an intellectually superior attitude and we view ambition as youthful naivety when the greatest things we have ever accomplished as a society have been ambitious acts of vision, she said. Cynicism abounds in Indian politics. Politicians cynically put personal careers before principles, abandoning any pretence of ideological commitment. When 15 disgruntled Uttar Pradesh leaders of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) joined the BJP, its state general secretary indicated that all party hoppers were welcome. We have kept our doors open to new leaders. This will add new votes to the party, he said. The former Congress spokesman, Tom Vadakkan, who has now joined the BJP must be suffering severe indigestion after eating all the words he has spoken against that party on TV. Voters are cynical too. I still keep in mind the agricultural worker. Way back in the 1974 Uttar Pradesh Assembly election, an agricultural worker asked me, What does it matter who I vote for when whoever I chose will put my vote in his stomach? Time and time again, I have been told by voters that their only interest is in electing someone who will do their work. So does India need a committed socialist or a committed capitalist with an ambitious vision? Most readers of this column would probably say India has had more than enough of committed socialism. In my lifetime, I have twice seen ambitious visions being taken too far in Britain. Clement Atlee, Britains first post-war prime minister, was a socialist visionary but his vision was taken too far, making governments local as well as national and the trade unions too powerful. The crisis that eventually resulted led to the backlash of Margaret Thatchers radical capitalist vision. The unfortunate results of that being taken too far are all too obvious in todays income inequality and environmental degradation. Perhaps India should listen to her ancient sages who taught the importance of balance. I have always taken this to mean that you should be careful not to take anything too far, not to be too radical. In ancient Greece, the oracle at Delphi used to advise medan agan, which means nothing in excess. But if a dose of radicalism, socialist or capitalist, is not the cure for Indias cyncism, what is? I would say committed politicians dedicated to improving governance so that they can implement the promises they make during elections. The question should not be about the quantity of government, should there be more or less of it, but about the quality of government. The views expressed are personal No matter how hard Marvel tries to ensure a spoiler free world before Avengers: Endgames release, eagle-eyed fans usually find something to chase after. The latest trailer for the movie has offered a lot of clues to fans but it seems like we may have missed two really crucial ones. A Redditor has brought to everyones notice that two scenes featuring Hawkeye (played by Jeremy Renner) tell a lot about his timeline and location. In one scene, he is seen teaching a young girl to use the bow and arrow. He smiles at her as she hits the bullseye. Fans have wondered for long about who she is. Could it be Kate Bishop? Also read: Madhuri Dixit on Kalank co-star Alia Bhatt: She reminds me so much of myself But clues from the scene reveal that she maybe Clints daughter. A closer look at Clints ankle shows an ankle monitor, similar to what Paul Rudds Scott Lang was wearing in Ant-Man and the Wasp. All the heroes recruited by Captain America in Civil War were made to wear these monitors for working with a fugitive, after the events of the movie. Therefore, it would be safe to say that this scene is a part of the flashback, perhaps Clint is telling Natasha what he was up to while others were chasing down Thanos. Another spoiler also involves Clint. Its the one which shows him bonding with Natasha. They appeared to be in a dark room or the Avengers Quinjet. But a Twitter user has figured out that its Benatar. Its the same ship on which Gamora asks Star Lord to kill her if Thanos ever gets his hands on her, and also the one on which Drax pretends to be invisible. So, Natasha and Clint are definitely in space, perhaps on their way to another planet. Jeremy Renner recently shared a throwback picture with the original six Avengers on Instagram and gave a warning to Thanos. Dear Thanos, were coming for you... sincerely A6!, he captioned the picture. The Avengers will fight Thanos on April 26 when the film releases. It is expected to be 3 hours long. Follow @htshowbiz for more Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) senior leader Abhay Chautala on Saturday resigned from the post of leader of opposition in Haryana assembly and sought disqualification of five of his MLAs for alleged anti-party acts. The Ellenabad MLA also said he has written to the Lok Sabha speaker for disqualification of Hisar MP Dushyant Chautala, the son of his elder brother Ajay Chautala, who has floated the Jannayak Janata Party, amid a power struggle in the Chautala clan. Abhays resignation comes two days after INLD legislator from Nalwa, Ranbir Singh Gangwa, switched his loyalty to the Bharatiya Janata Party, thus reducing the strength of the party to 16 in the 90-member Haryana House. The Congress has 17 members. I have written a letter to the speaker today and demanded disqualification of Gangwa as well as four other MLAs --- Naina Chautala, Anoop Dhanak, Pirthi Nambardar and Randeep Phogat who have sided with the JJP, Abhay told reporters here. Speaker Kanwar Pal confirmed that he has received Abhays letters. I would examine these on Monday or Tuesday, he added. Dushyant and his younger brother Digvijay were expelled from the INLD last November after their supporters had booed Abhay and party supremo Om Prakash Chautala at a rally in Gohana. This eventually resulted in Ajay and his sons floating the JJP. With Gangwa leaving the party and four party MLAs supporting the JJP, INLDs position as the principal opposition party and Abhays status as LOP has come under threat. The strength of INLD MLAs had come down to 17 after the death of Jind MLA Harichand Middha and Pehowa legislator Jaswinder Singh Sandhu. According to the Vidhan Sabha procedure, the speaker would give a notice to the five INLD MLAs and hear them out before taking a decision on their membership. In case of disqualifications, the strength of INLD in the House would nose-dive to 12. INLD has always bounced back Earlier, Abhay scoffed at opposition leaders who said the INLD would be wiped out following the split. The party has witnessed many desertions and betrayals in the past. But we have managed to bounce back every time. The backstabbers, however, have never returned to the Vidhan Sabha, he added. On talks of alliance with BJP, Abhay said the INLD has not written any letter to the ruling party. With metro rail systems mushrooming (and expanding) across India, the ministry of housing and urban affairs has turned its attention to improving last-mile connectivity, one of the objectives articulated in the 2017 national metro policy. To this end, the ministry has started focusing on feeder bus services, electric rickshaws, smart cycles (that can be rented out), electric scooter services, and partnerships with cab aggregators. According to the national metro policy, the objective is to ensure that the lowest cost mass transit mode is selected for public transport. It adds that towards this, states must make the metro self-sustaining, enhance other kinds of mass rapid transport systems, such as monorails or buses, and provide last mile connectivity, between the metro station and the commuters destinations. We have already drafted a last-mile connectivity plan across all operational metros; the aim is to provide a safe and economical ecosystem for daily commuting, Union minister of housing and urban affairs Hardeep Puri said in an interview. The Union government has already drafted a last-mile connectivity plan for 10 metros in cities such as Delhi, Bangalore and Kochi. The national metro policy had also aims to enhance metro rail revenues through a feeder system. Every proposal for metro rail should necessarily include proposals for feeder systems that help to enlarge the catchment area of each metro station at least to 5 km. Last-mile connectivity through pedestrian pathways, Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) infrastructure, and induction of facilities for para transit modes will be essential requirements for availing any central assistance for the proposed metro rail projects, the policy noted. Around 329 feeder bus services have been made operational by the Centre already. This includes an ambitious plan for Delhi and the National Capital Region, served by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). With the objective of strengthening feeder bus services with defined service quality parameters, DMRC is in the process of inducting (through open e-tenders) 427 buses (MIDI size battery operated/CNG air-conditioned buses) on 48 routes on cluster model. However, approval of Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) on sustaining the project by way of viability gap funding is awaited, a ministry official said on condition of anonymity. The Centre is also working on a pilot project involving cab aggregators which have been alloted space on rent at metro stations to set up kiosks where cabs can be booked. Process of allotment of bare spaces to the cab aggregators at all the metro stations is also underway for which the DMRC has already floated a tender, the official added. The policy also mandates an analysis of alternatives, requiring evaluation of other modes of mass transit such as Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), light rail transit, tramways, metro rail and regional rail in terms of demand, capacity, cost and ease of implementation. The alignment of metros such as Ahmedabad metro rail project phase-I is such that it integrates with BRTS, Indian Railways, and the city bus service at various strategic locations in both EastWest and North-South Corridors for seamless connectivity. Future transit systems such as the MumbaiAhmedabad high-speed bullet train will also integrate with phase-I at two locations, the official said. Metro connectivity with BRTS at Ahmedabad is provided at nine stations currently. The Centre is also working towards integrating electric vehicle transportation. A pilot is being undertaken by DMRC in five metro stations; in Chennai it is already operational in two stations; and it is also operational in Hyderabad, according to the ministry. Another aspect of non-motorised transport includes cycle sharing services which are currently operational in metros across eight cities. Last mile connectivity is very important especially in cities such as Delhi because of its circular structure. Another very important reason for having connectivity is safety especially for women, said KT Ravindran, professor and head of urban design at the School of Planning and Architecture of New Delhi. According to the urban ministry , over 326 km of metro lines part of what is known as Mass Rapid Transport System that aims to provide urban commuters an alternative to private transportation have been made operational in the last five years and 373 km are in the pipeline. According to former DMRC chairman Elattuvalappil Sreedharan the country must have the vision to introduce metro trains in more than two million cities and light metros in around one million cities within the next 10 years. This would need metros to be built at the rate of at least 200 km per year, he said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused chief minister Arvind Kejriwal of allegedly hurting religious sentiments and flouting the model code of conduct. Referring to a tweet by the CM depicting a man with a broom chasing a symbol (resembling a swastik), BJP MLA Vijender Gupta, Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, said, He (Kejriwal) is guilty of grossly violating the code of conduct by posting a cartoon depicting a man with broom (election symbol of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in hand chasing a swastik, which is held in great reverence by Hindus. The symbol is essential to every religious ceremony of Hindus but cartoon shared by Kejriwal makes fun of the swastik. Responding to the allegations, Ankit Lal, AAP social media and IT Cell head, tweeted: As some people are confused, sharing these images for verification. Arvind Kejriwals tweet portrays the Nazi symbol and not our traditional Swastika as some are trying to pitch it as. (sic) BJP leaders said they are going to file a complaint in this regard with the Delhi chief electoral officer and the Delhi police commissioner on Saturday. Mafuja Khatun, Bharatiya Janata Partys first Muslim candidate in West Bengal, will take on Congress candidate Abhijit Mukherjee, the son of former President Pranab Mukherjee. Abhijit, 59, is the incumbent from Jangipur constituency in Murshidabad district. Khatun, whose candidature was announced on Saturday, said that she would focus her campaign on the Narendra Modi governments initiative to liberate Muslim women from the evil of instant triple talaq. We will conduct a survey to find out an estimated number of triple talaq victims within my constituency. We will also highlight how the Modi government ensured Muslim women can travel for Hajj unattended by males, said Khatun. I shall not comment on anything that has a communal slant, said Mukherjee, who, however, admitted that the instant triple talaq has influenced a section of educated Muslim women. The focus of my campaign will be the philosophy of the Congress and its development politics and what I have done for the area over the past five years, he added. BJP has so far announced candidates for 29 of the states 42 seats. Khatun, 47, is a two-time former Communist Party of India (Marxist) MLA from neighbouring Dakshin Dinajpur district. She joined the BJP in 2017 after losing the 2016 assembly elections to Trinamool Congress (TMC). I shall tell the people that Congress MPs are incapable of carrying out development projects overcoming the obstacles created by TMC-influenced district administration. We, the soldiers of Narendra Modi, can do that, Khatun remarked. The campaign for Mukherjee and the CPI(M) candidate has already started in the constituency. TMC has fielded a local businessman. In 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Mukherjee won by a thin margin of 8,000 votes over the nearest rival, CPI (M). This time, Mukherjee faces a tough job since Bengals ruling Trinamool Congress has, over the past five years, eaten into the strongholds of both the Congress and the CPI(M). BJP, too, has increased influence. Jangipur is one of the three Lok Sabha seats in Murshidabad district, where Muslims comprise about 67% of the population, according to the census of 2011. The National Investigation Agency has filed a fresh charge sheet against Pakistan based Falah-i-Insaniyat (FIF) for several terror activities in India, the agency said on Friday. The FIF is terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)s front organisation, which is accused of creating sleeper cells in Haryana and Delhi. LeT founder Hafiz Sayeed has also been named in the charge-sheet against FIF. Officials said the case will strengthen New Delhis hand in exposing Pakistans use of terrorist groups for terrorism in India. Delhis Mohammed Salam, 51, Mohammed Salim, 62, from Nagpur and Pakistani national Mohammed Kamran have also been named in the charge-sheet. Investigation has established that Chief of the Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation Hafiz Mohammed Sayeed along with the Deputy Chief Shahid Mahmood hatched a conspiracy from 2012 to create sleeper cells and logistic bases in New Delhi and Haryana, the NIA said. Senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal trained guns on Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Saturday, claiming it was he who had first politicised the Balakot air strikes by quoting the number of terrorists purportedly killed in the February 26 attack deep inside Pakistani territory. Sibals comment came hours after Shah asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clear his partys stand on Balakot in the light of Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda saying one could not jump on an entire nation (Pakistan) just because some people from that country came here and attacked, in a possible reference to the Pulwama terror attack. We were happy your government carried out the air strikes after Pulwama. But I want to know how many terrorists were killed. Why is that too an unofficial secret? If you have killed 2,000 terrorists, I will personally come and congratulate you. We never asked for any figures after Balakot. Amit Shah started this. He said we killed 250, then somebody said 300, they politicised this. BJP raised questions against the government constantly after the 2008 [Mumbai terror] attack. Was questioning the government then not anti-national? Sibal asked. He then shifted the focus on to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi ji, please tell us how many security personnel were killed during your tenure. You call us traitors, but the real traitor is the one who failed to shield our security personnel. I remember when the 26/11 Mumbai attack was underway, you criticised the government. Dont teach us patriotism. Sibal said over 60 security personnel were killed since the February 14 Pulwama attack while the chowkidar was sleeping. He also hit out at the governments economic policies, saying countless citizens had suffered due to demonetisation and many had lost their lives. Thousands of small businesses had to close down, sowing of crops was delayed, demand collapsed which impacted farmers income. The GDP took a hit of close to 2 per cent in the quarter of demonetisation while 15 lakh jobs were lost in the first four months after demonetisation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday invoked freedom fighter and socialist thinker Dr Ram Manohar Lohia to target the opposition including the Congress, which is trying to present a united front against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led coalition in the Lok Sabha elections. PM Modi said, Dr Lohia would be horrified at the political developments taking placeThose parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohias followers are desperate to form an opportunistic Maha Milawat or adulteration alliances with the same Congress. It is both ironical and reprehensible. Whenever Dr Lohia spoke, inside or outside Parliament, the Congress trembled with fear, PM Modi wrote in his latest blog paying tribute to the socialist leader on his birth anniversary. Calling the main opposition party disastrous, he quoted Lohia as saying, During the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the army has improved. The prime minister said the BJP-led government rolled out various welfare schemes for the farmers as Dr Lohias thoughts inspire us. He named schemes such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam and Soil Health Cards in his blog saying, He would surely have been very proud of the NDA Governments work. These words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored, PM Modi said. At another place in his blog, he invoked Lohia to state that dynastic politics was inimical to democracy in a dig at many opposition parties, PM Modi has been targeting for family control over political organisation. PM Modi has hit out at the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the DMK in recent public rallies for promoting dynastic politics giving preference to family over merit. For several hours after the BJP dropped him from the list of the BJP candidates for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Shatrughan Sinha didnt say a word. Then, he started. In a series of tweets, Shatrughan Sinha, the one of the BJPs sharpest homegrown critic, flung a series of stinging darts at his party bosses. It was mostly at the way, he said, they had treated BJP patriarch LK Advani, 91, and other party veterans. But the actor-politician did signal his disappointment at the way he had been treated too. He, however, insisted that it was still tolerable. And he, Sinha said in a string of seven tweets, able and was capable of answering your people back in the same coin. Remember Newtons third law...every action has an equal and opposite reaction. And I am capable of paying back, said the actor-politician who had debuted in politics nearly three decades ago. But Shatrughan Sinha, who is often called Shotgun for his caustic remarks, seemed to have had a falling out of sorts with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah, mostly after they did not involve him in campaigning. Sinha, who saw himself as a star campaigner, saw the writing on the wall and has been, for a couple of years now, the most-vocal critic of the party leadership. The two-time Lok Sabha MP from Bihars Patna Sahib constituency has been widely expected to walk out of the party to align with the joint opposition camp led by the Rashtriya Janata Dal in Bihar. He had earlier promised to unveil his plans on Friday. There have been indications that he could identify his destination over the next few days, particularly now that the BJP has named Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad as the NDA candidate from Sinhas constituency. The Bihar announcement came days after the party named Amit Shah as the BJP candidate from Gandhinagar that Lal Krishna Advani has represented. It is a decision that has also triggered a sharp reaction from BJP ally Shiv Sena. Advani has not commented on Amit Shah replacing him. But people close to him have insisted that he was on board. Shatrughan Sinha accused the BJP leadership of orchestrating the departure of a most respected friend, philosopher, guide, father figure & ultimate leader of the party from the political arena and election. That too through the replacement of Mr. Advani by none other than the man who is also the President of the party but whose image or personality is no match nor a patch on him. This has been done deliberately & intentionally & hasnt gone down well with the people of the country. He is a father figure & no one can approve of such a treatment to a father figure, he tweeted, adding that the way the party treated former ministers Yashwant Sinha, Arun Shourie and Murli Manohar Joshi smacks of ingratitude. Nonetheless, people are watching at this hour, to give a befitting reply for all this that is being done by the one man show & 2 men army company. Long Live Shri. Advaniji! Jai Hind! he said. Indian armed forces fired at a Pakistani unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) along the International Border in Rajasthans Sriganganagar district and forced it to retreat. Senior defence sources said that the UAV attempted an intrusion near Satrana and Jagdev border outpost of Sriganganagar sector on Friday evening. The Indian forces engaged the UAV with anti-aircraft guns after radars identified it. Offcicials said the air defence systems and radars are on full alert to thwart any Pakistani intrusion attempts. Since the Indian Air Force (strikes at a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot on February 26, four Pakistani drones have been shot down near the International Border in Rajasthan. A UAV was shot down by IAF Su-30 jets near Anupgarh, Rajasthan on March 4 and the second one which was also shot down had intruded into the Sri Ganganagar sector of Rajasthan on March 9. A day later on March 10 another Pakistani UAV was shot down in Sriganganagar. Defence sources said that PAK is continuously sending its drones to probe the movements of Indian security forces as the major military deployments in Rajasthan are located around 80 km away from the border. A 58-year-old man from Jammu and Kashmirs Kupwara district was detained on Friday evening from outside the Pakistan High Commission in central Delhi, police said. Police said the man was picked up for questioning after they found his visit to the High Commission suspicious. Delhi police said the man was previously convicted in Jammu and Kashmir under the Official Secrets Act. He remained in jail between 2005 and 2009 on espionage charges, said police. Deputy commissioner of police (New Delhi) Madhur Verma confirmed that the man was detained from outside the embassy. We are questioning him to know his purpose of visiting the High Commission, Verma added. Police have also informed central intelligence agencies about the mans visit to the High Commission. The Janata Dal (Secular) on Saturday announced that former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda would contest from the Tumkur seat in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The JD (S) will fight the Karnataka polls, to be held in two phases on 18 and 23 April, in alliance with the Congress. The coalition, which is also in power in the state, reached a seat sharing agreement earlier this month, with Congress contesting 20 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats, and JD(S) contesting eight, including Tumkur, which the Congress currently holds. Gowdas grandsons Prajwal Revanna and Nikhil Kumar will contest from Hassan and Mandya, respectively. According to a statement by JD(S) spokesperson Ramesh Babu, Former Prime Minister and JD(S) National president HD Deve Gowda will contest from Tumkur Parliamentary constituency as JD(S) and Congress combined candidate. Gowda will file his nomination on Monday, the statement added. A senior JD(S) leader who did not wish to be named said Deve Gowda was finally influenced by the fact that the party had a good hold on the district. The party had also considered the Bangalore North seat. However, it was felt that the JD(S)s hold on Tumkur was greater. Meanwhile, SP Muddahanumegowda, the sitting Congress member of Parliament from Tumkur announced his intention to file his nomination as the Congress candidate on Monday. Also read: Deve Gowda breaks down as he announces grandsons name for Hassan seat Congress president Rahul Gandhi targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee at his first election rally in the state on Saturday, but spared the Left parties. Gandhi accused Modi of lying and Banerjee of making empty promises at his first public rally in Bengal since April 2016. Did Modi give you employment? Did Mamata di give you jobs? Modi keeps lying and she keeps making false promises, he said, calling the prime minister a chowkidar (watchman) of the rich. Only rich people employ chowkidars, Gandhi said. He devoted most of his 20-minute speech at Chanchal in the traditional Congress bastion of Malda district to target Modi but did not spare Banerjee either. WATCH : Rahul Gandhi compares Mamata Banerjee to PM Modi at Bengal rally Bengal has experienced one-party rule in the past, Gandhi said, referring to the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Now its the rule of one person who listens to nobody. Earlier, Left parties used to attack you. Now Trinamool is beating you up. Mamata di delivers speeches throughout the day. But what has she done for the farmers, the youth and the jobless?, Gandhi asked. Reacting to his speech, West Bengals food and supplies minister Jyoti Priya Mallick said in Kolkata that Congress had become a nonentity in Bengal. Rahul Gandhi doesnt know that out of 72 lakh farmers in Bengal, 65 lakh have submitted an application for the financial assistance that Bengal government is providing, he said. Also Read | Mamata Banerjees TMC removes Congresss name from its logo Both Rahul and Sonia Gandhi, his mother and chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance, sent congratulatory messages to Banerjee in January when she organised the first rally of regional party leaders opposed to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government. In the coming Lok Sabha elections, the Congress will have to fight Banerjees Trinamool Congress, the BJP and the Left, with which it has failed to reach a seat-sharing deal in Bengal. Retaining its existing four Lok Sabha seats in Bengal in the face of inroads made by the TMC and BJP will be a tough task, according to political analyst Biswanath Chakraborty, a professor of political science at Rabindra Bharati University. Also Read | Dropped from BJP poll race, Shatrughan Sinha stings PM Modi, Shah with 2-men army barb Gandhi also kick-started the Congress campaign in Bihar from Muslim-dominated Seemanchals Purnia district on Saturday, accusing the Narendra Modi government of spreading hatred in society. He said the BJP and its ideological parent Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh were dividing the nation. Gandhi accused the PM of failing to keep any of the promises he made in the 2014 elections, including one to create 20 million jobs a year and tend to the welfare of farmers. Gandhi spoke for nearly 40 minutes at the Rangbhoomi Maidan where thousands of people from all four districts of Seemanchal were in attendance to listen to him. Out of nine seats allotted to the Congress party in the Grand Alliance (GA) in Bihar, the party has been given four in the Seemanchal and Kosi regions with a substantial population of Muslims. Seemanchal and Kosi include six Lok Sabha seats; in 2014, the Congress party won two of them -- Kishanganj and Supaul. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti will contest Lok Sabha polls from the south Kashmirs Anantnag seat. The party also decided on Saturday not to field candidates from Udhampur and Jammu seats to keep secular vote united. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti announced the decision after a meeting of the PDPs parliamentary board. On the decision not to contest the two seats, she said, people advised the party not to contest to make sure the secular vote is not divided. It (opposition alliance is not happening the way it should have. But we made an effort tso that there is no loss to the secular vote and secular forces are strengthened, Mehbooba Mufti said. She had won the seat in 2014 after defeating the National Conference candidate from South Kashmir. National Conference has already announced support to the Congress on the two seats of Jammu to take on the BJP. The PDP leaders close to former CM said that Mehbooba Mufti agreed to contest from south Kashmir to strengthen the party and to test the partys image. From Anantnag National Conference has already announced former justice (retired) Husnain Masoodi as its candidate and there is a possibility that Jammu Kashmir Congress unit president Ghulam Ahmad Mir could be Congress candidate. In the recent meeting of top leaders, NC and Congress leaders decided to go for friendly contest at three seats. South Kashmirs Anantnag seat will go to polls in three phases due to the security concerns on April, 23, 29 and May 6. In 2014 elections Mehbooba Mufti emerged victorious from the seat. After she became chief minister in 2016, she contested assembly elections from Anantnag and vacated the Lok Sabha polls. The by-elections were scheduled to be held in 2017 but due to the situation in south Kashmir polls couldnt be held. Mehboobas entry has made it a triangular contest in the seat. The PDP has already nominated former trade union leader Abdul Qayoom Wani as its candidate from Baramulla. From Srinagar it has decided to field a Shia leader and partys additional general secretary Agha Mohsin. In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the PDP has won three Valley seats and BJP emerged victorious from two Jammu seats and the one in Ladakh. However, after Tariq Karra who had won on PDP ticket from Srinagar resigned in 2016, the seat was won by NC president Farooq Abdullah in by-elections. In the last Lok Sabha elections, the Congress and the NC had contested jointly and lost all three seats. This time, Congress and NC will be going for a friendly contest on three seats (Anantnag, Baramulla and Ladakh). Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress president Ghulam Ahmad Mir said that PDP has now realised that people are angry with them for aligning with the BJP. By past mistakes PDP leaders have realised their follies. Now what they have said it should be reflected on the ground and they should direct their voters clearly to support our candidates in Jammu and Udhampur. BJP state spokesman Altaf Thakur said that PDP has no base in Jammu and by not contesting from two seats of Jammu the party wants to save its image. Even in Kashmir leaders have left them and it will make no problem to our candidates there, he said. Opposition parties on Saturday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for suggesting that political parties, other than the Bharatiya janata Party (BJP), were betraying the principles of freedom fighter and socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia. I wonder which principles are being spoken of. The BJP seems to be schizophrenic. On the one hand, they try to co-opt Gandhiji, Bhagat Singh, Sardar Patel, Dr Ambedkar and Dr Lohia and, on the other hand, they follow people who these leaders opposed and disagreed with, tweeted Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav. Claiming that he was the inheritor of Lohias legacy, Akhilesh said only the SP was working towards his principles. Lohia is the Samajwadi Party ideologue and its governments have named several projects, including its flagship Lohia housing scheme and Ram Manohar Lohia Park in Lucknow, after him. Lohia won Kannaujs first Lok Sabha election in 1967. Insisting that anti-Congressism was in Lohias heart, Modi wrote in his blog, Today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohias followers are desperate to form an opportunistic Maha Milawat alliances with the same Congress. It is both ironical and reprehensible. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a ceremony at Ram Manohar Lohia Park on Lohias birth anniversary, Akhilesh said: The Prime Ministers blog is a big post. He should not tell us about Lohia. Samajwadis have inherited the legacy of Lohia. I take pride that I inherited Lohias constituency (Kannauj) and now Dimple (Kannauj MP and his wife) has it. PM has nothing to do with socialism. When the BJP got an opportunity, it squandered it and did not do any good work. We never saw such a liar government. We dont need any lecture from the BJP on the principles of Dr Lohia. Akhilesh termed Modis invocation of Lohia as an election gimmick. The Congress also reacted angrily to the PMs blog. Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not know history. He is not fit to comment on Dr Ram Manohar Lohia. Yes, Dr Lohia would have been sad to see a dictator demolishing all established institutions. This PM only talks and does not do anything for peoples welfare, said Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee media co-ordinator Rajiv Bakshi. YOGI TARGETS SP Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath targeted the SP for claiming to be a follower of Lohia and still tying up with the Congress. Those who claim to be the inheritors of the political lineage of Dr Lohia are now fully immersed in corruption and dynastic politics. Those who cheated Dr Lohia wont be able to cheat the people of the country, Adityanath tweeted. With barely any buzz on ground in the states capital city, only political posters plastered across Thiruvananthapuram indicate that Kerala, which has 20 Lok Sabha seats, will go to polls on April 23. It remains nonetheless a key constituency, as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has never won a single Lok Sabha seat in the state till date, believes its chances are the brightest theyve ever been. They have fielded Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) worker and former governor of Mizoram Kummanam Rajasekaran (66), against two term incumbent Member of Parliament and former union minister Shashi Tharoor (63) from Congress. Hoping to upset their calculations is C Divakaran (76), an MLA from Nedumanagad, and ruling alliance member Communist Party of Indias candidate. Tharoor is confident that his victory margin will go up significantly this time around. In the 2014 general elections, he barely scraped through with 15,470 more votes than his opponent. To put that in context, more than 8.73 lakh votes were cast in the constituency. Fighting him was O Rajagopal from the BJP the lone party MLA in the state who has fought and lost six assembly and Lok Sabha elections since 1989. This time people have seen my work over two terms now and I am fully confident of a bigger victory, Tharoor said. As per the 2011 census, Hindus constitute 54.73% of the states population, while Muslims and Christians are 26.56% and 18.38% respectively. In Thiruvananthapuram, the majority community is decisive in deciding the outcome of the polls. For the BJP, this is good news, as it hopes to cash in on the consolidation of the majority community post-Sabarimala. Since September 2018, when a constitution bench of the Supreme Court ruled that women of all ages are permitted to enter the temple, both the Congress and the BJP and its affiliates have strongly protested the verdict. The Travancore Devaswom Board, which looks after the temple dedicated to the celibate Hindu god, Ayyappa, had prevented women between the ages of 10 and 50 from entering the temple. I expect BJP will do very well across all the 20 seats in the state, surprising several people. People are fed-up with this bipolar polity between Congress and the Left and want to give BJP a chance. They have seen the violence unleashed by the left government, lack of development and contrast it with the good work done by the Modi government at the Centre. This will ensure our victory, said Rajasekharan, whose bearded and smiling visage is plastered on posters across the constituency. Equally sanguine about his prospects is C Divakaran the CPI candidate who declares, My ground support is swelling by each passing day. Political commentator Joseph C Mathew says, Though the state capital is witnessing a fierce three-cornered contest, the main fight is between Tharoor and Rajasekharan. Whatever the outcome, the winning margin will be very low. The RSS has strong roots in the state capital. Though the constituency has more than 60 per cent Hindu voters, a consolidation is unlikely in the name of Sabarimala. But Rajasekharan is the best candidate for the saffron party in the state, said Mathew. (Inputs by Ramesh Babu) Constable Geeta Vishnoi posted in Rajasthans Jalore district committed suicide on Thursday evening alleging mental torture by her colleagues in her suicide note, police said on Saturday. A police official said Vishnoi had a heated argument with the station house officer of Sanchore police station Pushpendra Verma and other colleagues over her attendance before committing suicide. The family of the deceased constable has filed an FIR. A police officer who requested anonymity said, Due to lack of staff on holi, the Sanchore police staff was given duties in their non-jurisdiction area too. Vishnoi along with two other female constables were given duties at Rebariyo Ka Mohalla to maintain law and order. When patrolling van of police officers went for sudden inspection Vishnoi was not present after which SHO had marked her absent. Few hours later, Vishnoi went to police station and raised objection saying that she was in the duty area for eight hours then why her attendance has not been marked? After which a heated argument broke out between Vishnoi and another constable Kailam Bai whose duty was to post daily attendance record online. Other staff officers asked Vishnoi to go back to her duty after which Vishnoi left the police station and went to her quarters and committed suicide. Before committing suicide she had called DySP Sanchore four times in forty seconds. The DySP is also accused in the case for mentally torturing her, the officer added. On Saturday, family members after persuasion by Jalore SP Kesar Singh Shekhawat, the family members agreed for post mortem. The family members along with other people were sitting on protest at the mortuary of the government hospital and demanded to take action against the accused officers. A suicide note was recovered from a room of Vishnoi in which she had alleged that she was harassed by senior police official including circle officer of Sanchore and station house officer of Sanchore police station. SP Jalore said that in her note Vishnoi had alleged DySP Omprakash Ujjwal, Pushpendra Verma and another female colleague of mentally torturing her. The family members demanded the case be transferred to the crime branch for fair investigation. We have accepted their demand and I will be writing a letter to additional general of police, crime branch to accept this case for fair investigation, said Shekhawat. On Thursday evening Vishnoi didnt come out his room for several hours after which her colleagues informed other staff members. The staff broke the door of her house where she was found hanging from a ceiling hook. Vishnoi is native of Dhorimanna town of Barmer district. In her note, she had also apologized to her family and friends for taking this extreme step. She is survived of his mother, father, husband, and brother. When CO Ujjwal was contacted to get his reaction he didnt respond. SHO Praveen Verma said that Vishnoi committed suicide because of personal reasons. An Indian-origin man in north England has been sentenced to 28 months in jail for his role in a computer scam worth hundreds of thousands of pounds perpetuated by IT operatives based in the Delhi region, Britains cyber-crime officials said. The fraud involved individuals calling victims in the UK by claiming to represent software major Microsoft and informing them that there is a problem with their computer. They were told the issue could be resolved for a fee deposited in a UK-based bank account. Baljinder Singh, 39, held the bank account and after helping steal 400,000 from victims, would transfer the money to India after taking a cut. He was arrested from South Shields, north England, in 2017 and has now been jailed for 28 months at the Newcastle crown court. It is one of a growing number of cases reported to British cyber-crime authorities, many linked to India. Last week, the Daily Mail reported an investigation on India-based call centres netting millions of pounds by preying on Britons by threatening them action for non-existent tax debts or whose computers are compromised while servicing faults through remote access. Singh, charged with money-laundering, was part of the scam that included taking money from the victims, but instead of fixing any problem, they would install malicious software on the computer that would allow them to steal more money, officials said. Enquiries found that the fraudsters were based in the Delhi region of India but they were asking victims to transfer money to a UK based bank account. The City of London Police identified Singh as the owner of the account and detectiveslater found he was transferring the cash back to Delhi, while taking a cut for himself, the police said. Detective constable Andrew Smith of cyber-crime team said: It is an international operation and Baljinder Singh was one cog in the machine that committed frauds to the tune of millions of pounds. He acted as the money man and used his accounts to pass the proceeds of the fraud back to these conmen based overseasIt is worth noting that this investigation was greatly helped by the co-operation of Microsoft and their commitment to securing justice for victims of crime. New figures from the City of London Police, which is the apex UK body dealing with cyber crime, victims lost 34.6 million between April and September 2018, amounting to an increase of 24% from the previous six-month period. Abrahim Bakhtiar of Microsoft Digital Crimes Unit said: We work closely with law enforcement both here in the UK and internationally to tackle this kind of fraud and we have recently expanded our cyber security programme to further safeguard our customers. Wed like to reassure all users of our products that Microsoft will never cold call you out of the blue. If you receive an unsolicited tech support call or pop up from anyone claiming to be from Microsoft or representing Microsoft then it is a scam. Muktikanta Biswal, the 31-year-old idol maker from Odisha, hit the headlines last year when he walked for 71 days covering more than 1,500 km in his attempt to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He carried with him the Indian tricolour and a big hoarding to remind PM Modi of his promise to get the Ispat General Hospital in Rourkela upgraded. He claimed that PM Modi had promised upgrading the hospital into a super multi-specialty facility. Biswal fainted on a highway before reaching Delhi. He was admitted to a hospital in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. He, however, failed to meet PM Modi upon his arrival in the national capital. Now, Biswal is the Congress candidate for Rourkela assembly constituency in Odisha. Muktikanta Biswal, however, declined the offer. Biswal said he will not contest the election. The Congresss list for Odisha assembly polls also features Subhashree Panda, the wife of jailed Maoist leader Sabyasachi Panda. She is a party candidate from Ranpur assembly seat. Another Congress candidate with connection with alleged Maoist link is Sangram Mohanty. The 38-year-old Congress candidate from Suruda assembly constituency is the son former Maoist ideologue Dandapani Mohanty. Former PCC chief Prasad Harichandan and his father-in-law Suresh Routray would also contest on Congress tickets from Satyabadi and Jatni assembly seats respectively. The Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party on late Friday night announced candidates for seven more Lok Sabha seats and 76 assembly seats in Odisha. The BJP list includes partys national spokesman Dr Sambit Patra. The BJP announced candidates for four more Lok Sabha seats and 22 assembly constituencies. The Congress announced candidates for two more Lok Sabha seats and 54 assembly seats in the state. The BJP has so far announced the candidates for 15 of the 21 Lok Sabha seats and 121 of the 147 assembly seats while Congress has nominated contestants at eight Lok Sabha seats and 90 assembly seats in Odisha. Ruling Biju Janata Dal has so far announced the candidate list for nine Lok Sabha seats and 54 assembly seats. Simultaneous polls will be held in Odisha for 21 Lok Sabha seats and 147 assembly constituencies in four phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29. The last date for filing of nominations is April 4. Patra, who did his MBBS from Odisha, is the BJP candidate from Puri Lok Sabha seat while the state unit president Basant Panda has been nominated from Kalahandi parliamentary constituency. There were wide speculations over PM Modi contesting from Puri in an effort to give a boost to the partys chances in coastal Odisha. For Koraput Lok Sabha constituency, the BJP ignored nine-time MP and former Chief Minister Giridhari Gamang preferring to controversial former MP Jayram Pangi. Surprisingly, the party also chose to ignore Bajrang Dals former national president Subash Chouhan, who had lost to BJD candidate in 2014 Lok Sabha polls from Bargarh by a margin of just about 11,000 votes. BJP legislator in the outgoing Odisha assembly and member of erstwhile royalty of Deogarh, Nitesh Gangdeb is the party candidate from Sambalpur Lok Sabha constituency. Actor Pinky Pradhan, among the first from Odia film fraternity to join the BJP, has been nominated from Digapahandi assembly constituency. On the other hand, the Congress has fielded poultry businessman Samarendra Mishra, who owns one of the largest layered bird units in western Odisha, on the Bolangir Lok Sabha seat. Mishra is the son of the Leader of Opposition in Odisha state legislature Narasingha Mishra, who is also contesting on the Congress ticket from Bolangir assembly constituency. Saptagiri Ulaka, software engineer at Infosys and son of late Congress MP Ramachandra Ulaka is the party candidate from Koraput Lok Sabha constituency. The candidate announcement has, however, led to dissidence in all the three major parties. The supporters of BJP leader from Bhubaneswar, Amiya Das locked the partys state office on Friday morning. The supporters of Das, a long-time aspirant for Bhubaneswar-Ekamra assembly constituency, staged a sit-in front of the party headquarters. The BJP office Laxmipur was also targeted. His supporters ransacked the office opposing the candidature of Kumuda Saunta. Duryodhan Majhi, sitting BJP MLA of Khariar and former minister resigned from the party after the wife of former MLA Hitesh Bagarti was chosen as the party candidate on the assembly seat. Ruling BJD has seen more than a dozen MPs and MLAs leaving the party in last seven days after they were denied election tickets. BJP president Amit Shah attacked Congress on Saturday over Sam Pitrodas remarks on the Indian Air Force strike at a terror camp in Balakot. He said Congress chief Rahul Gandhi must apologise for Pitrodas remarks. Amit Shah said Pitrodas comment that attacks like the one in Pulwama happen all the time is unacceptable. He said Rahul Gandhi must make it clear who he supports. Who do you (Rahul Gandhi) support? Doubting the Indian Air Force is not right for the national president of any party, Amit Shah said. Sam Pitroda, who is part of the Congress manifesto committee for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and is considered a senior ideologue of the party had raised questions over the Balakot strike saying that international media did not agree with the claims made in India about the IAF action. He also questioned the policy to launch air strike across the Line of Control and said you dont jump on entire nation if some terrorists target a place in India. Pitroda later clarified his remarks stating that he was speaking in personal capacity and not on the behalf of the Congress party. Also read : On Sam Pitrodas remark, Arun Jaitleys swipe at student Rahul Gandhi On Saturday, Amit Shah asked the Congress if the Pakistan government and military has a connection with terror attacks in India. If there is a connection, who is the culprit, Congress party should answer, he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also targeted Congress over Pitrodas comments and alleged that the party has been insulting the armed forces. Modi said 130 crore Indians will not forgive or forget the Opposition for their antics and the country stands firmly behind the forces. The most trusted advisor and guide of the Congress President has kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of the Congress, ironically by demeaning Indias armed forces. Shame! he had tweeted. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday drew a parallel between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has been critical of the BJP-led government. Gandhi said both run their governments without consulting anyone, ignore the voice of the people and make false promises. Narendra Modi tells lies in his speeches. Wherever he goes he tells one or the other lie, Gandhi said at his public rally in Malda. This was his first public rally in West Bengal since April 2016. After PM Modi, the Congress president targeted the chief minister accusing her of adopting the same tactics as of the Left Front of the olden days. Bengal is today run by one person. She does not consult with anyone. She does what she wants to do. Does Bengal not have a voice? The Congress workers are beaten up here. You dont have to get scared. We are going to form government at the Centre and then you will see what we will do, Gandhi said. Gandhi and Banerjee have been at the forefront of the oppositions attack on the Modi government over issues of unemployment, farm distress, demonetisation and alleged malfeasance in Rafale deal. Despite their understanding to present a united front against the BJP-led ruling alliance at the Centre, the two leaders and their parties have taken pot shots at one another at the state level. Malda, the venue of Gandhis public rally, along with Murshidabad has been the traditional stronghold of the Congress. But the party suffered an embarrassment going into the Lok Sabha polls as the sitting MP from Malda North, Mausam Benazir Noor switched sides from the Congress to the ruling TMC. Gandhi slammed Noor for betraying the party ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. He said, Here you have always voted for the Congress. This time, one person has betrayed you. Remember this, dont forget that a former Congress candidate has betrayed you. She has betrayed you under pressure and after getting scared. Remind her that one cant work through betrayal in Bengal, Gandhi told the Malda voters. Noor has been nominated from Malda North by the TMC in the Lok Sabha polls. The Congress has not done quite well in the past several elections in Bengal. The last Congress government in Bengal was formed during 1972-77 under Siddharatha Shankar Ray, a confidante of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the grandmother of Rahul Gandhi. In recent years, the emergence of the TMC has pushed the Congress to margins in Bengal. In 2009 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress won only six of 42 seats with 13.45 per cent votes in the state. The figures dropped to four seats with 9.69 per cent votes in 2014 parliamentary polls. Similarly in 2011 assembly polls, the Congress secured 42 of 296 seats in Bengal state legislature with little over nine per cent votes. In 2016 state polls, the Congress increased its vote share to 12.25 per cent but could win only 44 seats in the assembly. At his rally, Gandhi appealed to the party workers to work with the aim of forming the next government in Bengal. Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar went through a rocky first four years in power. His administration was singed by a series of law-and-order debacles, primary among which was the violent Jat quota agitation in 2016 that stretched on for weeks, brought large parts of the state to a standstill and led to the deaths of at least 30 people. The next year, followers of self-styled godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh rampaged across Panchkula to protest his conviction on rape charges, bringing back memories of a showdown between the police and devotees of another godman, Rampal, in 2014. A number of gruesome rapes and crimes against women such as the 2017 rape and murder of a minor in Hisar didnt help his governments record. In his last year, the long-time Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activist-turned-politician appears to have found his political groove. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swept the first-ever direct mayoral elections in five major cities of the state last December and followed it up, a month later with an emphatic victory in the high-stakes by-election in the Jind assembly constituency a seat it has won for the first time since 1966 when the state was carved out of Punjab. The twin victories are a favourable augury for the BJP ahead of the crucial 2019 parliamentary polls in which each of the 10 seats up for grabs will count. BJP leaders feel the February 26 Indian Air Force (IAF) strikes on a terror camp in Pakistans Balakot will give them an edge. The Khattar government not only immediately hailed the air strikes but also passed a resolution in the state assembly to congratulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the armed forces amid chants of Bharat Mata ki Jai and Vande Mataram by treasury benches. The nationalist sentiment is expected to work for the party in the state that makes a sizeable contribution Khattar put the number at 9% in November last year to the armed forces. As Raghuvendra Tanwar, professor emeritus, Kurukshetra University, puts it, The armed forces are symbolic of national pride across the world.Indias action of targeting terrorist camps have united the country in a context. Haryana has an age-old bonding with the armed forces. It is only natural for a pro- active policy to win support for the person who bells the cat. The oppositions counter strategy hinges as much on punching holes in the BJPs nationalistic narrative as on questioning the Khattar governments performance. The BJP is indulging in pseudo-nationalism for political gains. They want to usurp the valor and glory of the armed forces. But people of Haryana can see through. The BJP has failed in terms of welfare measures for armed forces personnel. Its a shame that they have not accorded the status of martyrs to paramilitary personnel killed in action says Ashok Tanwar, Haryana Congress chief. The BJP just wants to use the sacrifices of our soldiers for votes. We will put up these facts before the people and expose them. The saffron party was a marginal player in Haryana till May 2014 when, riding the crest of a Modi wave, it bagged seven seats its highest tally ever on its own and then came up trumps in the state assembly polls within a few months to form its first-ever government in the Jat-dominated state. INTERNAL TROUBLES Khattar has attributed his recent wins to his governments achievements, centered chiefly on transparency in transfers, scandal-free recruitments to government jobs and a raft of welfare schemes. Yet, his partys new-found confidence draws more from the oppositions woes. The Congress, a dominant player in state politics for decades, is grappling with reports of bickering between Tanwar and two-time former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda. The Hooda loyalists, including many of the 17 party MLAs, have been pressing for Tanwars removal. The party is divided between multiple camps each trying to pull the other down -- instead of taking on rival parties. The feud only worsened after the Jind byection fiasco, with Randeep Singh Surjewala, who was handpicked by Congress president Rahul Gandhi as the party candidate, alleging that some party leaders betrayed him. The Congress slipped to the third slot and barely managed to not lose its deposit. The Jind gambit was expected to unite the warring Congress factions. Instead, it has widened the rift, raising questions whether the party will be able to get its act together for the Lok Sabha polls. However, it is the former chief minister Om Prakash Chautalas Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), the principal opposition party in the state, which is in deeper trouble. While Chautala, its main vote-catcher, is serving a jail term after being convicted in a teachers recruitment case, his two sons, Ajay and Abhay, have fallen out. The party, founded by former deputy prime minister Devi Lal, split in December last year when Ajays two sons, Dushyant and Digvijay, set up their Jannayak Janata Party (JJP). The family feud spilled into the Jind by-election with both sides fielding their candidates to lay claim on Devi Lals legacy. JJP, which fielded Digvijay, was the runner-up ahead of the Congress. The INLD was pushed to an abysmal fifth position, prompting its alliance partner, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), to snap their 11-month-old tie-up. Before calling off the alliance, the BSP had served an ultimatum to the Chautala family to unite or forget about the alliance. The last time the INLD (then known as Haryana Lok Dal-Rashtriya) and the BSP had joined hands in 1998, they won five LS seats. The INLD won four and one had gone to the BSP. POLL STRATEGY The political churning has led to the entry of another player in Haryana: the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Despite a weak organisational set-up in a state neighbouring its stronghold of Delhi, party chief Arvind Kejriwal has, for the past year, been holding meetings across the state, hoping to capitalise on the anti-incumbency sentiment faced by the BJP and divisions in the Congress and the INLD. The AAP supported the JJP in Jind, but the two parties have not been able to come to an agreement to form an alliance. The BJP, too, has had its share of internal upheavals as its rebel MP Raj Kumar Saini, a backward class leader who opposed the inclusion of Jats in the other backward classes (OBC) category for reservation, also set up the Loktantra Suraksha Party (LSP). Saini has joined hands with BSP . In the elections, the BJP plans to project its governments performance as its strong suit. We will seek support on work done on transparency in governance, curbs put on corruption, jobs based on merit and farmers welfare. Though I dont claim that we have totally eliminated corruption or achieved complete transparency, a strong beginning has been made, says Haryana BJP president Subhash Barala. The poll calculations of the BJP, seen by many as the biggest beneficiary of a caste divide, hinge on garnering a major chunk of the Punjabi and urban vote bank and a likely three-way division of the 23% Jat vote between the Congress and INLD factions. With the state set for a multi-cornered contest, the surfeit of spoilers may be the real decider. Girish Bapat, 69, a veteran Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) worker and a member of legislative assembly (MLA) of five terms will be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha polls as the Punes Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate. Polling in the city is scheduled on April 23. Bapat was chosen over sitting member of Parliament (MP) Anil Shirole, who accepted the partys decision gracefully on Saturday. A Konkanastha Brahmin, Bapat is a strong contender in the battle against the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) alliance, with strong chances that he will battle against senior city Congressman Arvind Shinde, a Maratha. Hailing from the Amravati district, Bapat began his career in 1973 with Tata Motors (then known as Telco) and simultaneously undertook activities of the RSS, which landed him in jail during the Emergency in 1976. A soft-spoken Kasba Peth legislator, he later contested his first election as a corporator in the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) during 1983 and eventually climbed the political ladder until he became a minister in the Maharashtra government cabinet in 2014. Besides multiple portfolios, including food and civil supplies and consumer protection, Bapat is also Punes district guardian minister. The BJP has shown trust in me by giving me the Lok Sabha ticket. It will be my 10th election and I am confident to win this time, said Bapat, who had unsuccessfully contested the Lok Sabha polls in 1996 and tasted defeat from Congress Suresh Kalmadi. Essentially an urban constituency with a mix of cosmopolitan and local population spread over six assembly segments that are part of the Pune Lok Sabha seat, the party hopes that Bapats face will go well with the constituencys profile. In a previous interview, Bapat had said that he had started his career from the local level and was now keen to work in Delhi. The driver of the e-rickshaw, toto to locals, enthusiastically points at the roads and culverts and declares, The Mamata Banerjee government has got all this done. In the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) district office in Cooch Behar, a small town in north West Bengal close to the Assam border, some leaders concede that the ruling Trinamool Congress has a good record in development. But despite its track record and electoral supremacy in West Bengal Trinamool won 211 of 294 seats in the 2016 assembly polls chief minister Banerjees party might face its toughest poll challenge yet against the BJP in the April-May general elections. Political functionaries have earmarked seats like Alipurduars, Cooch Behar, Balurghat, Jalpaiguri, Raiganj, Bishnupur, Malda North as well as Darjeeling and Asansol the last two are in the BJPs kitty as likely arenas of fierce Trinamool-BJP contests. One of several factors playing out in the poll run-up is the controversial citizenship amendment bill that the Narendra Modi government at the Centre brought to give non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan Indian citizenship. The bill has a lot of relevance for north Bengal, explained political analyst Subhankar Sinha in Siliguri, the north Bengal town located between Assam, Nepal and Bhutan. More than 90% Bengali Hindus in north Bengal had roots in Bangladesh. For them, its a big issue. Author and historian Debabrata Chaki agreed with Sinha. The citizenship thing can be a major political plank. But more important, the Congress has no base left here while the Left is a marginal force. A part of the Left organization has also shifted to the BJP, he said in Cooch Behar, some 135 kms away from Siliguri. In the 2014 general elections, Trinamool increased its vote share in Bengal to 39.35% from 33.1% in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls. The BJP won 16.84% votes in 2014 against 6.14% in 2009. The Left parties and the Congress suffered a sharp decline in support base. North Bengal development minister and senior Trinamool leader Rabindra Nath Ghosh, however, rejected the possibility of a tough contest with the BJP. In the 2016 Assembly polls, BJP vote share slipped to 10.16% while Trinamool got 44.91% of the popular votes in Bengal, he said. The ruling party has, however, changed four candidates, including a sitting MP in north Bengal, for the upcoming elections. Although local people in Alipurduars and Jalpaiguri complained about the infighting in Trinamool, Ghosh claimed the party was united. Does the BJP have any face in this area? The note ban and the economic crisis have badly hit the people. Voters are either coming back to us or going to CPI-M [Communist Party of India - Marxist], he said. Another advantage the Trinamool is looking at is the minority votebank. Bengal has around 31% minority voters, who would stand rock solid behind Mamata Banerjee, claimed a senior Trinamool leader. Keen to expand its footprint in Bengal, the BJP is planning to make this an issue. Trinamools politics is nothing but minority appeasement. In many state government schemes, Hindus are being ignored, alleged Malati Rava, BJP district president in Cooch Behar. The National Democratic Alliance on Saturday released its list of all 40 Lok Sabha candidates in Bihar. Disgruntled BJP Lok Sabha MP from Patna Sahib Shatrughan Sinha has been replaced by senior BJP leader and Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Sinha is the two-time sitting MP from Patna Sahib. But, he has been unhappy with the BJP for past couple of years. Sinha has been seen aligned with the opposition parties in targeting the Narendra Modi government over issues ranging from demonetisation, goods and services tax, farm distress, unemployment and allegations of corruption in Rafale deal. Sinha had recently took part in two mega rallies organised by the opposition parties, first in Kolkata in January and then last month in New Delhi. Sinha attacked the Modi government over Rafale deal seeking clarification over the questions raised by the Congress-led opposition. In the NDA list, Union minister and senior BJP leader Giriraj Singh has been moved from his Navada Lok Sabha constituency to neighbouring Begusarai parliamentary seat. He had voiced concern over the speculation that his constituency might be changed. Nawada Lok Sabha seat has gone to the LJP as part of the seat sharing arrangement. Also Read | Lok Sabha elections 2019: BJP first list out, PM to contest from Varanasi, Amit Shah from Gandhinagar Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh was named the NDA candidate from Purvi Champaran. He is the sitting MP from this constituency. The list was released at a press conference attended by Bihar BJP chief Nityanand Rai, JD-U state president Vashisht Narayan Singh and LJP state unit head Pashupati Paras. On March 17, the three NDA constituents announced the list of constituencies each party will contest in the Lok Sabha election. The BJP and JD-U are contesting 17 Lok Sabha seats each in Bihar. The LJP has got remaining six seats in the NDA seat-sharing arrangement. Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Saturday said that his first preference is Rajgarh parliamentary seat for the 17th Lok Sabha elections. My Rajya Sabha term is till 2020. But if the party wants me to contest the Lok Sabha elections, my first preference will be Rajgarh parliamentary seat. However, I have told the party high command that I will contest from wherever the party asks me, Singh told media persons here. This comes after Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath on Saturday announced that Singh will contest the ensuing Lok Sabha elections from Bhopal.I had asked Digvijaya Singh to contest from Bhopal and he immediately agreed. Even during the meeting with the Congress high command, his name was suggested, said Nath during an event. I hope the people will support him, Nath said.Singh had represented Rajgarh seat in 1984 and 1991.In Madhya Pradesh, polling will be conducted in four phases--during phase four, five, six and seven scheduled on April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19.Madhya Pradesh has a total of 29 Lok Sabha constituencies. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP had won from 27 constituencies while the Congress bagged two seats. With Congress president Rahul Gandhi set to inaugurate his campaign in Chanchal in Bengals Malda district on Saturday, it is expected that the focus of his speech will be to target the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), his principal opponent all over the country. The other two parties in the quadrangular fight that Bengal is set to witness -- the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Left -- are Gandhis half-friends. In fact, Gandhi may find it a bit awkward to criticise both the TMC and the Left beyond a point. Though the Congress is contesting against both the TMC and the Left, Gandhi shares much-discussed opposition front space with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. On January 19, the Congress president Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi sent separate letters congratulating the TMC chief for the rally in Brigade Parade ground, where leaders from 23 parties vowed to fight against the ruling dispensation at the Centre. The Congress had also sent senior leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Abhishek Manu Singhvi to attend the rally. The Congress extended the courtesy even though Trinamool chief Banerjee had not congratulated Gandhi after his partys victories in the assembly polls of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in December last year. With the Left, Gandhis position may be even more delicate. Though the much-discussed understanding between his party and the Left is virtually dead in the state, a section of senior leaders from either camp are still openly saying that a pre-poll pact between them would have been the best way to fight the elections in Bengal. Incidentally, Gandhis last public rally in Bengal was on April 27, 2016 with CPI(M) leader and former Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee before the fifth phase of assembly elections in the state, when they jointly urged the people to defeat the Trinamool Congress government. This is just a tip of the challenge Gandhi faces in Bengal. There are other issues that he has to address as the Congress president. First, the party organisation is in disarray. Second, the party has lost as many as 30 MLAs in the state since 2011, when the TMC came to power. While 29 of those 30 legislators switched to the states ruling party, one went to the BJP this month, seriously eroding already weak support base in the state. However, the immediate challenge for Gandhi is to ensure that his party manages to retain the four seats that it won in 2014 elections. These are Malda North, Malda South, Baharampur and Jangipur. To compound problems, the incumbent MP from Malda North, Mausam Benazir Noor joined Mamata Banerjees party in January this year and has been nominated as candidate from the same constituency. The contest at this seat has become intense with the BJP nominating three-time Left MLA Khagen Murmu. Former President Pranab Mukherjees son Abhijit won the Jangipur constituency for the Congress in 2014, but with a thin margin of 8,161 votes. He won 33.80 per cent of the votes while the Left contestant won 33.07 per cent. Even Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, incumbent and four-time MP from Baharampur seat, is not as comfortable as he was earlier. In 2014, Chowdhury won 50.54 per cent of the votes compared to a mere 19.69 per cent by Trinamool candidate Indranil Sen and romped home with a margin of 3.56 lakh votes. However, Mamata Banerjees party has made a lot of inroads into Chowdhurys turf and he has seen some of his former loyalists leaving the party. In fact, the TMC candidate against Chowdhury, Apurba Sarkar, is one of his former associates. Sarkar was a former Congress MLA from Kandi. In 2014, Malda South was won by Congress candidate Abu Hasem Khan Chowdhury, who won it by a margin of 1.64 lakh votes and secured 34.81 per cent of the votes against 19.79 per cent won by the BJP candidate. The districts of Malda and Murshidabad were traditionally considered as the strongholds of the Congress till Mamata Banerjee led an assault on it. She deployed one of her most prominent party leaders, Suvendu Adhikari with the specific task. Adhikari managed the region quite well, attracting elected representatives from the Congress both at the levels of civic bodies and assembly, giving rise to the oft-repeated phrase of reducing the party to a mere signboard in West Bengal. But even beyond the limits of its former fortresses, Indias oldest political partys fortunes in West Bengal have been constantly moving in one direction since the 1970s -- downhill. Led by Siddhartha Shankar Ray, a barrister and a confidante of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the last Congress government in the state was in existence between 1972 and 1977. In the last five elections in the state two Lok Sabha and three assembly polls the Congresss performance has remained at a low-level equilibrium. In the 2009 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress won 13.45 per cent of the votes and secured six of the 43 seats. Five years later, the graph dipped to 9.69 per cent of the votes and four seats. In the 2011 assembly polls, the party (contested in 66 constituencies) garnered 9.09 per cent of the votes and 42 of the 294 seats in the House. In the 2016 elections, though the votes crept up to 12.25 per cent, the number of seats remained almost static at 44. Incidentally, while the Congress contested the 2016 assembly elections (in 92 constituencies) with seat adjustment with the Left Front, its sworn opponent for decades, in 2011, the party had aligned with Mamata Banerjees TMC. In the 2006 assembly elections, when it went solo, and contested 262 of the 294 seats, the party won 14.71 per cent votes and won 21 seats. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday revived his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at an election rally in Bihar, where his party is believed to have got a better bargain in the multi-party grand alliance for the Lok Sabha polls. Gandhi said PM Modi spreads hatred wherever he goes and he is waiting for the day when the youth of Bihar will wake up and tighten screw on the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government. At a public rally in Bihars Purnea, Gandhi said, I am not scared of Narendra Modi, the BJP and the RSS. The only thing I am scared ofI only believe in truth. Narendra Modi spreads hatred because the youth is unemployed. He ran a flop film Mann Ki Baaat for five yearsPeople are tired of watching the same flop show of Mann Ki Baat, said Gandhi at his Bihar rally, where he also targeted the prime minister over Rafale deal. The Congress president said that the prime minister has been a chowkidar of 15 rich people and the BJP-led government is not bothered about the common people toiling hard in their daily lives. While Gandhi was harsh on PM Modi targeting him over demonetisation, unemployment, farm loan waiver and Rafale deal, the Congress president was conspicuously silent on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Kumars Janata Dal-United is BJPs ally in the National Democratic Alliance. The Lok Janshakti Party of Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan is the other constituent of the NDA in Bihar. The Bihar chief minister has shared an undulating with the prime minister. Kumar had snapped his ties with the BJP ahead of 2014 Lok Sabha election over then Gujarat Chief Minister Modis prime ministerial candidature. The JD-U contested the 2015 Bihar assembly polls in alliance with the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal of Lalu Prasad, and handed a resounding defeat to the BJP-led NDA. Kumar returned to the NDA fold in 2017 amid widening differences with the RJD leadership. Gandhi, who has been critical of the BJP-led government at the Centre, has avoided a direct attack on Kumar. He maintained that stance during his Saturdays rally in Kumars backyard unlike Gandhis approach towards Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. In his public rally in Odisha, he recently targeted Patnaik addressing him as junior Modi. Bihar will vote in all seven phases of the parliamentary polls for 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state between April 11 and May 19. The state is set to witness a direct contest between the ruling NDA and the grand alliance of the RJD, the Congress, the Rashtriya Lok Samta Party of former Union minister Upendra Kushwaha, the Hindustan Awam Morcha of former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi. The newly floated Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP) of bollywood set designer Mukesh Sahni and Loktantrik Janata Party of former JD-U chief Sharad Yadav are also part of the opposition alliance. Yadav is set to merge his party with the RJD after the Lok Sabha polls. In the ruling coalition, the BJP and the JD-U are contesting 17 seats each while the LJP is fielding candidates on remaining six Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. In the opposition alliance, the RJD has got 20 Lok Sabha seats as per seat-sharing arrangement. The Congress has got nine parliamentary constituencies followed by the RLSP five, and the HAM and VIP three each. Hes cooked for Prince Charles, and been a regular on British TV. But for Londons Michelin-star chef Atul Kochhar, the most exciting challenge remains experimenting with local produce and giving it an Indian twist. Born in Jamshedpur, the 49-year-old became the first Indian to receive a Michelin star when his debut restaurant Tamarind received one in 2001. He went on to open Benares at Mayfair in London, which also bagged a Michelin star, in 2007. Then came the tweet storm last year, which began when he referred to Hindus who have been terrorised by Islam over 2000 years. The tweet was followed by an apology, but the damage was done. He was dismissed from the restaurant Rang Mahal at the JW Marriott Marquis in Dubai and from Benares. He quit Twitter and isnt back on it yet. But he has returned to Mayfair, with Kanishka, set up with restaurateur Tina English as an ode to the lesser-known north-east-Indian cuisines. On the menu are dishes like Kachela Maas or venison tartare, and Sagolir Manxo or country goat curry. Hes brought back some of his signature recipes too the Chicken Tikka Pie, the scallops (although the latter is now Naga-inspired, spiced with smoked chilli and served with a parsnip achar. Excerpts from an interview Kochhar with the team of Kanishka. They come from very diverse backgrounds, he says, but are largely from the Indian subcontinent. This is your big comeback after the Twitter controversy of last year. Is that something youre still trying to put behind you? All my life, I have always been inclusive, and embraced all cultures. Im the last person to talk about anybody or any religion per se, and especially a great religion like Islam. I have put my hands up and apologised a number of times and regret every day that it happened. Im not that kind of person and all I can do now is hope that people can see that and move on. Can you tell us why the cuisines of the north-east, in London? The food of the Seven Sister states hasnt been given the recognition it deserves, particularly in the UK. Ive explored various regional Indian cuisines at my previous restaurants, and for Kanishka I wanted to challenge myself by exploring something new and very different to what Londoners are familiar with. What about these cuisines interests you most? Because the states are so remote and mountainous, techniques such as salting, smoking and fermenting are necessary. The influence of bordering countries such as Nepal, China and Bangladesh can be seen in the use of ingredients like soya, raw meat, dumplings and noodles. On the menu: Naga Scallops spiced with smoked chilli, served with parsnips achar, puree and papad. (Jodi Hinds Photography) Why the name Kanishka? Named after King Kanishka, an emperor of the Kushan dynasty in the second century [CE], Kanishka is inspired by the rulers Buddhist values of kindness, fairness, honesty, humility and a sense of equality. Strong influences from neighbouring countries can be seen in lots of the dishes, such as the Gangtok Momos and Tibetan Guinea Fowl Thukpa. How do you intend to marry those cooking methods with seasonal British ingredients? Im quite excited about the challenge of working with ingredients like three-cornered garlic, chives, asparagus, Jersey Royal potatoes, and many more. Using the north-eastern techniques like smoking and fermentation with spices and these ingredients will create combinations that havent previously been explored. Kanishkas Videshi Style Muntjac Ki Boti , a serving of venison steak, grilled apple, aubergine, raita, juniper and garam masala gravy. (Jodi Hinds Photography) Whats your favourite dish on the menu, and is it true that youre serving rice beer? Zutho and Handia are the forms of local rice beer in this region of India, so we have a rice beer on the menu. I love the Bamboo Shoot & Mushroom Stir-Fry. The Thukpa, and the chickpea curry are also favourites. Last year has seen a slew of openings of Indian fine-dining restaurants in London. Do you think Kanishka will stand out enough? London is a great place for a foodie. I have cooked here since 1994. All cultures and cuisines are welcomed here with equal vigour. Its up to the people of London how they like the whole Kanishka experience. I have a feeling that well fit in well with all the restaurants around us. Our offering is quite unique and people will come to us for a very different experience. To sign off, what is your recipe for a great meal? A soup always makes me happy true comfort. Thukpa from the Kanishka menu ticks all the boxes! A 17-year-old student died on Friday after he hit his head on an electric pole while leaning out of a Panvel-bound train, near Dockyard Road station. The teenager, identified as Zuber Siddique Shaikh, fell off the train and was run over by the same train. Shaikh was returning to his house in Wadala after appearing for his final secondary school certificate (SSC) exam paper. According to Wadala Government Railway Police (GRP) officers, Shaikh appeared for Geography exam on Friday at his school and left the exam centre around 1pm. He then went to a mosque to offer Friday prayers after which he was returning home with four friends. Rajendra Pal, senior police inspector of Wadala GRP, said Shaikh and his friends boarded the general compartment of a Panvel-bound train at 2.30pm. The boys were leaning outside the train dangerously when the train was in motion, Pal said. When the train was about to reach Dockyard Road Station, Shaikhs head hit the electric pole between two tracks and he fell down. As he fell, he came under the train and his right hand was crushed, the officer said. While Shaikhs friends raised an alarm, other commuters alerted the GRP. GRP officers said they rushed to the spot and found Shaikh dead. Shaikhs right hand was cut off and he suffered major injuries as the train had crushed his body, said Pal. Shaikh was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. We have registered a case of accidental death (ADR) and are investigating the case. Shaikhs parents have been informed about the accident, added Pal. In 2018,19 people had died after crashing into railway poles when leaning dangerously outside running trains. Pal said when they catch children who do stunts on trains, the offenders and their parents are given counselling by GRP officers. We have counselled many school children and their parents about the dangers of travelling dangerously on train footboards, but they never listen, he said. We show them photos of children who were run over by trains and lost their lives. We tell the parents not to let their child travel alone and to see that they are chaperoned. When we catch kids leaning outside trains, we also threaten that we will book them, but it doesnt seem to stop, he said. US Special Counsel Robert Mueller recommended no new indictments in a report he submitted Friday wrapping up his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election that President Donald Trump believed had questioned the legitimacy of his presidency. The contents of the report remain confidential. But Attorney General William Barr, who received a copy Friday afternoon, told lawmakers in a letter he expects to send them the reports principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, which would then be made public as well. This summary of conclusions, which Barr is likely to send as early as Saturday, is expected to answer the key question that the Mueller probe was set up to investigate: if the Trump campaign, or its members, colluded in Russian interference, which, US intelligence has concluded, was intended to help Trump. The report appeared to be a victory for Trump, chiefly on account of no new indictments. Not personally for him, because the Mueller probe was prohibited from indicting him, per justice department guidelines prohibiting indictment or criminal prosecution of sitting presidents. But for all those in his orbit who were in danger of being charged, such as his eldest son Donald Trump Jr and son-in-law Jared Kushner. In a probe lasting 22 months, Muellers office charged 34 people, including the presidents first National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, and his deputy Rick Gates. He also charged three Russian companies and 25 individuals who are never going to submit themselves to the US judicial system. Five Trump aides pleaded guilty, including Flynn and Gates, and cooperated with Muellers investigator, and long-time confidant Roger Stone, is awaiting trial for allegedly lying and witness tampering. Muellers investigations also spawned other cases, most significantly the one involving hush-money payments to women who claimed to have had affairs with Trump. The presidents one-time attorney and fixer Michael Cohen, who is cooperating with all government and congressional investigations, arranged those payments and has turned into the most useful source on the presidents businesses and related dealings. That investigation by the US attorney for the Southern District of New York continues, as do fresh probes launched by New York state authorities. The Cohen case was a direct spin-off of Muellers probe, triggered by tips passed on by the special counsels office, and will last a long time, subject to the statute of limitation. President Trump, who had disparaged the probe as a witch-hunt, had not reacted to the submission of Muellers till the filing of this, but his press secretary said in a statement, The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. This is not over yet, politically. Democrats made clear they will not be content with only a summary of the reports main conclusions. They demanded that the full report be made public, and that the underlying documentation and findings be handed over to Congress, setting up a political fight. Democrats, who control the House of Representatives, the lower chamber, have already launched a slew of probes against Trump, including a the most sweeping of them all in which a congressional body has sought papers and documents relating the president from 81 people and entities. Are you a current print subscriber to Columbia Gorge News? If so, you qualify for free access to all content on columbiagorgenews.com. Simply verify with your subscriber id to receive free access. Your subscriber id may be found on your bill or mailing label. Missed Delivery? If missed delivery or wet paper please call our office 909-628-5501 ext 110 Leave a detailed message with name, address, and phone number. Readers must call before 1 p.m. on Saturday. Re-deliveries are available for Chino residents until 1 p.m. Saturdays. Click Here Diana Ross has been a friend and mentor to Michael Jackson since the 1960s, when she had the Jackson Five on The Hollywood Palace alongside her. When Jackson passed away in 2009, Ross was one of his most vocal protectors, shielding his legacy from criticisms that he faced throughout the second half of his career. In the wake of the Leaving Netherland docuseries that has effectively split the nation, Ross is once again coming to the aide of her late friend. Leaving Netherland highlighted two boys who claim Jackson assaulted them sexually. Speculation surrounding Jackson's sexual desires bubbled up in the 90s, and the King of Pop was taken to court where he beat all 14 counts of alleged sexual misconduct with minors in 2005. Although he won his case, the court of public opinion would not let Jackson off that easily. Leaving Netherland dives back into the scandal, but Diana Ross refuses to let the trending docuseries drag her friend's name through the mud. "This is whats on my heart this morning," she tweeted. "I believe and trust that Michael Jackson was and is A magnificent incredible force to me and to many others. STOP IN THE NAME OF LOVE." Her comments are much less controversial than the ones from Barbra Streisand. https://twitter.com/_/status/1109492548320415746 Two JetBlue pilots have been accused of drugging three female crew members during a layover in Puerto Rico in 2018 reports Huff Post. The alleged victims' names have not been released. HuffPost cites a lawsuit filed against pilots Eric Johnson and Dan Watson, who allegedly drugged the three women and then raped two of them. The sexual assault allegedly took place during a one-night layover in May 2018, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. According to the lawsuit, which was filed by the common anonymous aliases Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2, the two pilots approached the three women while on the beach. Johnson and Watson offered the ladies opened beer after they all discerned they worked for the same company. The lawsuit claims the beer was laced with drugs that caused the rest of the day to be a "blur." Doe 1 claims she was unable to react to the situation because of the drugs, but she was aware that it was happening." She remembers flashes of the day, which, included Johnson having sexual intercourse with the other crew member who was also under the influence of the drugs, according to the suit. After allegedly raping Doe 1 and the other crew member, the lawsuit claims that Johnson stated, Thank you for making my fantasy come true. Doe 2 claims in the lawsuit that the pilots drugged her with the intent of sexually assaulting and raping her, but did not because she began vomiting, which was a turnoff." The women are suing because, no corrective action was ever taken" by JetBlue. Jane Doe 1 and 2 are requesting $75,000 each and also coverage of lawyer and court fees. Check out the lawsuit below. Jane Doe 1 Et Al v Jetblue ... by on Scribd Rappers need to be on alert because it seems as if they're being attacked more while minding their business in the streets. We reported earlier about rapper Skinnyfromthe9 getting assaulted and Adam 22 of No Jumper posting a clip of the altercation on his Twitter page. The violent altercation can be seen on the video as the attacker repeated punches Skinnyfromthe9 inside of a Hibachi restaurant before leaving the scene. https://www.instagram.com/p/BvVFM67Be2N "The dude that hit me is a straight b***h. He came up to me while I was eating at a restaurant by myself with a girl and was like, 'Yo, I know you eatin' right now, but can I take a picture?' I got up, put my arm around him like we was gonna take a picture like we was posin' and the dude snuck me," he said. "And then we started wrestlin', and that's what happened. My face is fine. I still f**k b***hes. I still got all my jewelry - the dumbass didn't even get my jewelry. He tried." https://twitter.com/_/status/1109211899122442240 Last month, rapper YBN Almighty Jay turned himself over to police after he was accused of robbing Skinnyfromthe9 of cash and jewelry. Jay adamantly denies the claims, but the incident created a division between the two rappers. The blood is apparently still bad between them as Jay hopped on Instagram to laugh at Skinnyfromthe9's reported beatdown. https://www.instagram.com/p/BvVDw10Hf4g "I got jumped this n***a got a beating," Jay wrote with eight laughing emojis. Skinny seemed amused as he responded, "He blocked me," adding, "This n***a got stripped his whole ass was on everybody's feed. I went to Texas...They stripped this n***a." Silver Eagle Distributors, the nations largest independent distributor of Anheuser-Busch beverages, has agreed to sell its Houston-area business to a Maryland private investment firm in a deal estimated to be worth around $1 billion. Chairman and Chief Executive John L. Nau III, who acquired the Houston company in 1987 and grew it into one of the top beer distributors nationally with more than $1 billion in annual revenue, announced the sale to Redwood Capital Investments on Friday. The deal comes a little more than three months after Silver Eagle's majority owners John and Bobbie Nau finalized their divorce. The acquisition includes Silver Eagles Houston corporate offices as well asd warehouse operations in Conroe, Cypress, Houston, Pasadena and Rosenberg. The deal does not include Silver Eagles San Antonio business, which John Nau will continue to own and oversee as its president and chief executive. Redwood Capital is committed to maintaining and promoting the legacy of the previous business owners, Nau said in a statement. I think this dynamic new company will take beverage distribution in Texas to a whole new level. Silver Eagle and Redwood Capital declined to comment further until regulatory approvals are secured and closing documents are signed. The two parties did not give a timeline. The sale of Silver Eagles Houston business which stretches across Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties represents one of the biggest deals in the wholesale beer industry, which has seen a wave of consolidations amid growing competition from wine and spirits, as well as seltzer and flavored water in recent years. Benj Steinman, president and editor of trade publication Beer Marketers Insights, estimated the deal to be worth about $1 billion. You dont get a deal this big very often, Steinman said. Its the largest deal ever in the Anheuser-Busch system and is in the top two for beer distributors ever. Silver Eagle is behind one in seven cases of beer shipped in Texas, which is the nations second-largest market for beer wholesalers after California. The Houston distributor sells, markets and distributes more than 40 million cases of beer across 16 Texas counties, including more than 30 million cases in Houston alone, Steinman said. A case typically contains 24 beer cans or bottles. The company employs more than 1,500 people and distributes to more than 13,500 accounts. In addition to Anheuser-Busch brands such as Budweiser and Karbach, Silver Eagle represents Grupo Modelo and Houston craft breweries such as St. Arnolds and 8th Wonder. The distributor also sells other domestic, import and microbrew beers, craft spirits and several non-alcoholic beverages and waters. Private equity firms continue to remain interested in investing in beer wholesalers. That interest comes despite changing consumer tastes that has led to slumping Budweiser and Miller Lite sales, but a renaissance of craft beers, said Lester Jones, chief economist with the National Beer Wholesalers Association, which represents more than 3,000 independent beer distributors nationally. Private equity looks for industries that have growth potential, Jones said. Redwood putting their cash in this market is a statement that they have confidence in the Texas economy. Redwood Capital, in a statement, said it will work closely with Silver Eagles management to grow the business and continue the legacy set by Nau. Redwood Capital is the investment firm for Baltimore businessman Jim Davis, who along with his cousin, Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti, co-founded Maryland-based Allegis Group, the largest staffing company in North America. Redwood Capital is no stranger to the beer wholesaler industry, or to Anheuser-Busch, which declined to comment on the deal. In 2017, Redwood Capital invested in Lakeshore Beverage, another Anheuser-Busch wholesaler based in Chicago. We intend to continue delivering our customers, suppliers and the greater Houston community with best-in-class service, while promoting an exciting environment for our employees, Principal Ryan Mostrom said in a statement. Houston craft brewers, whose livelihood depends on a close relationship with their distributor to get their product into bars, restaurants, grocery stores and liquor stores, are often anxious when distributors change hands, said Charles Vallhonrat, executive director of Texas Craft Brewers Guild, which represents nearly 300 craft brewers in the Lone Star State. Thats because Texas law allows beer wholesalers to sell exclusive territory-based distribution rights without input from or payment to a brewery. Craft brewers can build up their business, only to have a distributor sell their book of business to another distributor who may not represent them as well. Anytime there is a consolidation of distributors, it has significant implication to brewers, Vallhonrat said. Consolidation is certainly a concern and something brewers keep their eye on very closely because distributors can hold the keys to craft brewers success. Houston craft brewers, however, said they were happy to hear of Redwood Capitals acquisition of Silver Eagle. Brewers, who were told of the acquisition prior to Fridays announcement, expect Redwood Capital to operate Silver Eagle much as it always has. Bob Boblitt, Silver Eagles president, and John Johnson, executive vice president of sales and market, will continue their leadership roles with the company, which will continue to operate as Silver Eagle Distributors. Consumers should expect no major changes to Silver Eagles business, brewers said. Anytime theres change, people are concerned and want to understand what it means, said Brock Wagner, founder of St. Arnolds Brewery, which has been represented by Silver Eagle for a decade. In this case, Im happy with who theyre partnering with. The buyer has a lot of resources and is really looking at this as being a silent partner. Said Ryan Soroka, president and co-founder of 8th Wonder Brewery in East Downtown, which has been with Silver Eagle for four years: Were looking forward to a fruitful relationship with the new Silver Eagle, and things to remain business as usual. Redwood is going to let one of the largest distributors in the country continue to do what they do best. paul.takahashi@chron.com twitter.com/paultakahashi Author David Eggers Photo: Michael Macor, Staff / The Chronicle Photo: Michael Macor, Staff / The Chronicle 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, traveled 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 organization for children with branches in eight cities. In other words, Eggers is not just a charitable person; hes not writing checks 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 nations 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 gargantuan 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 dont 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. Much to Fours consternation, 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 such an appreciation for this place and these native people that he makes Four seem dour and hardhearted. Ive never seen so many stars, Nine says when describing his previous nights antics. Incredible sky here. Its 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 ! So much music. And the food! The Parade By Dave Eggers Knopf 192 pages, $25.95 When Nine asks him to come enjoy a meal at a nearby village, Four angrily rebuffs him. Im staying with the vehicle because my contract requires me to, he says. I dont want local food, and you shouldnt either. Youre acting like a child on holiday. All of this is fairly engaging, though its tempting to think weve seen this buddy film before: the grumpy old crank who does everything by the book and the carefree heartthrob who drives him crazy, gosh darnit! We know they will engage in epic arguments. We know that after some crisis the old guy will soften up and appreciate his partners joie de vivre, and the younger man will learn to respect his bosss 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. Nines delight with everything is a constant irritant to his machinelike partner, but its also a persistent reminder of how much life Four is missing. 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, were left with the stark elements of a parable, which raises the books pretentiousness quotient to dangerously high levels. At worst, we have a story that conforms to the Wests reductive attitudes about the developing world. Writers and politicians have long generalized about those individual cultures. A novel that lumps them together into a nameless, primitive nation only plays into that tendency. But whats truly disappointing is the novels final paragraph, which lands like a Molotov cocktail of toxic cynicism. If this parable offers any lessons, its that Nines delight was foolish, that efforts to help economic development are wasted and that political reform will never work in those places that President Trump calls shithole countries. I dont read novels to have my fantasies of progress affirmed, but I dont read them to be told that hope is a cheat, either. A town hall meeting is slated for Saturday for Deer Park residents wanting to discuss the legal ramifications of the Intercontinental Terminal Company's series of plant fires that send black plume into Houston's sky for several days. "The meeting is being held to discuss the legal ramifications stemming from the recent ITC industrial fire as well as the need for compensation to local residents," wrote Bill Ogden, a lawyer with Farrar & Ball LLP, and Chance McMillan, founding partner of the McMillan Law Firm. Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer A wall surrounding the damaged tank farm at ITCs charred facility in Deer Park breached shortly after noon Friday, ITC and Harris County officials said, increasing the risk that airborne and liquid toxins will be released from the site. We have learned that a portion of the tank farm containment wall containing the product has partially collapsed. Industrial neighbors and the Texas Battleship and Monument State Park should consider taking shelter-in-place precautions," said ITC spokesman Dale Samuelson. "We are coordinating with federal, state and local officials to resolve the issue as soon as possible. A fireball again erupted into the sky. An unknown volume of chemicals leaked into waterways, destined for Galveston Bay. Deer Park residents peered out their windows at another plume of black smoke. Friday brought a bout of deja vu to the Houston Ship Channel, where for the sixth consecutive day firefighters battled a massive chemical fire that has so far burned 11 storage tanks at Intercontinental Terminals Company. People are scared. Im scared, said Jennifer Tijerina of Pasadena, as she held her 10-month-old boy, Sammy, on her hip. Just information and reassurance wouldve been nice. COMMERCE HAMPERED: Houston Ship Channel briefly shut during latest flareup, spill A day ITC hoped would bring no surprises as the company carefully drained flammable compounds from exposed 80,000-barrel tanks devolved into a series of emergencies that exposed new dangers. Around noon, a wall surrounding the tank farm breached, increasing the risk that airborne and liquid toxins would be released and forcing a portion of the Ship Channel to close. Three hours later, the fire re-ignited in at least two locations, sending familiar smoke into the sky. An hour after that, Harris County Fire Marshal Laurie Christensen announced the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms would join the countys probe, an effort to boost its investigative resources and make good on her pledge to hold ITC accountable. They can bring in experts, said Rachel Moreno, spokeswoman for the county fire marshal. They can bring in electrical engineers and fire science engineers that we dont have on staff. A beefed-up county probe coincided with a separate investigation announced by the U.S. Chemical Safety Board, and a lawsuit by the Texas Attorney General, on behalf of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, alleging ITC violated the Texas Clean Air Act. ITC had little to say about Fridays developments, rescheduling an afternoon news conference for Saturday morning. It is still under investigation, said an ITC spokeswoman who declined to be identified. Harris County officials struggled to fill the information vacuum. Francisco Sanchez, the countys deputy emergency emergency management coordinator, said his office often must relay secondhand information to the public. What happened at the site is a flare-up, or re-ignition of fire, which we saw the potential for and planned for, he said. Theyre moving chemicals exposed to the environment, and those chemicals are not designed to be transported in that way. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo declined to comment Friday, for fear of compromising the countys investigation. Jennifer Tijerinas husband, Sam, said he was frustrated by the amount of inaccurate social media posts, which residents often turn to when official sources offer little. Whats next? he asked. Its not right. Its not fair. Its not OK. Breach causes leak The first sign of trouble Friday emerged before dawn. Around 4:38 a.m., one air monitor testing for carcinogenic benzene about 500 yards from the tank farm picked up an elevated reading, according to the Harris County Emergency Management Office. The reading was higher than one Thursday that prompted a shelter-in-place order for temporary Deer Park. An ITC spokesman said that because the Friday reading was localized, there was no need for a public notice or shelter-in-place order. No other nearby monitors picked up elevated benzene readings, according to a map on the countys emergency management website. Shortly after noon, ITC announced a breach on the north side of the facilitys perimeter that allowed chemicals and detritus from the blaze to flow into nearby waterways. We have learned that a portion of the tank farm containment wall containing the product has partially collapsed. Industrial neighbors and the Texas Battleship and Monument State Park should consider taking shelter-in-place precautions, said ITC spokesman Dale Samuelson. Officials noted that such a breach could undermine the foam blanket that is coating the tank farm in the hopes of preventing flare-ups and the release of further toxins from the facility, where holding tanks began exploding on Sunday. Sure enough, the sites afternoon reignition and resulting airborne pollution led Port of Houston officials to close part of the ship channel from Tucker Bayou to Light 116. The Ship Channel Bridge also briefly closed. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality said workers were trying to contain toxins from flowing downstream by placing additional booms in the water, and said an ITC contractor is collecting and storing contaminated runoff. TCEQ is working to fully assess and mitigate any wider impact, the agency said. The wall breach came shortly after ITC officials said crews could spend up to 12 hours pumping pyrolysis gasoline out of one of tanks and that during that time, the risk of benzene exposure in the air will increase. Theres going to be a lot of agitation in the tank when we start the pumping, Brent Weber, ITC incident commander, said. There is an elevated risk of benzene emission during this time. Pyrolysis gasoline, also known as pygas is a benzene-rich liquid byproduct that can be blended with other chemicals for use as a gasoline additive. That chemical was the source of a benzene spike Thursday morning, after it leaked out from foam covering one of the tanks. City leaders issued a shelter in place that lasted several hours. ITC officials estimated Thursday that 14,000 barrels of pygas remained in that tank. However, ITC officials said Friday that about 20,000 barrels remained. Crews attempted to pump pygas from the tank on Thursday, but the effort didnt work, Weber said, in part because of an less-than-ideal environment concerning the positioning of the pump, Weber said. Aside from the roughly 20,000 barrels of product in the one tank, about 40,000 more barrels are expected to be removed, Weber said. Not all tanks are compromised, but they contain pygas and naptha, which have some percentage of benzene. New fireballs erupt Flames and dark smoke billowed from ITC around 3:30 p.m. Minutes later, Sarai Aranda received a panicked call from her son Raymond, an ITC employee. Raymond Aranda, 34, said there had been an explosion at the plant, he feared his truck was on fire, and he saw no escape from the flames. He says, Mom, dont get scared, but Im here, and Im trapped, Sarai Aranda said. The Pasadena mother rushed to the plant. Raymond Aranda said he and colleagues had been evacuated east to the San Jacinto Monument, where he was unharmed. Sarai Aranda said she feels drained after six days of worrying about her son. I dont want him to work there anymore, she said. Unlike a brief flare-up on Wednesday, which crews extinguished within minutes, the blaze on Friday spread rapidly. STATE STEPS IN: Paxton files suit against ITC for unauthorized pollution When viewed from television helicopters, flames appeared in at least two locations: the pod containing 15 tanks that burned from Sunday to Wednesday and a new location, a ditch leading from ITC to the ship channel. Prior to the eruption, television footage showed the tank farm covered with less foam than on Thursday, when the white substance appeared as if a heavy snow had fallen. ITC officials said earlier the foam, designed to fight chemicals, is necessary to seal the volatile compounds from the atmosphere, preventing emissions leaks and fires. By around 4:30, firefighters using flame-retardant foam appeared to have the fires under control. ATF joins probe The Harris County Fire Marshals Office asked for ATFs help because of the severe nature and size of the fire, spokeswoman Rachel Moreno said. Key questions remain about the blaze, including how and where it started, why it could not be contained by local firefighters, and what the company could have done to prevent it. ATFs Houston branch often helps with local fire probes, but Harris County is also asking for the assistance of the bureaus National Response Team, which aids major investigations, such as the 2013 fertilizer plant explosion in West. The NRT last joined a Harris County probe in 2012, when a three-alarm blaze ripped through a Cleveland flea market. ATF agents have agreed to evaluate the fire scene, which on Friday remained too unsafe for investigators to visit. The bureaus leaders would then determine how much assistance to provide Harris County. The federal government would also provide fire investigators at no charge to Harris County, which otherwise faces the prospect of conducting an expensive probe, sending a bill to ITC and hoping the company pays. It will be up to the ATF to decide what they can bring in, Moreno said. Any resources we can get that will help us solve this will be welcome. The Harris County Attorney, Vince Ryan, has asked permission from Commissioners Court to bring suit against ITC, based on the results of the investigation. Staff writers Samantha Ketterer, Godofredo Vasquez, Julian Gill, Rebecca Schuetz and Andrea Leinfelder contributed reporting. zach.despart@chron.com Coinciding with news of an ongoing fire at a Deer Park chemical storage facility Friday, the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative released a report outlining 34 recommendations for improved emergency planning for the regions immigrant population. The Humanitarian Action Plan, a response to Hurricane Harvey, took a year of work with representatives from more than 40 state, federal and local agencies as well as local undocumented immigrants, said Kate Vickery, the collaboratives executive director. The goals for the plan are to increase immigrant resilience, contribute to more efficient and effective disaster response and recovery, and improve the health and safety of all Houston area residents through future disasters, Vickery said. She noted that in the wake of natural and manmade disasters, low-income, immigrant communities and communities of color are disproportionally hurt. Vickery noted that 64 percent of immigrants reported income or job loss due to Harvey compared to 39 percent of U.S. born residents. Our regions resilience is determined in large part by immigrant resilience, she added. One of the key report recommendations calls for a regional chemical response plan to ensure minimal damage to ship channel industries and affected residents, the workforce and first responders in their proximity and throughout the region, according to the report. In a prepared statement by Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, presented by his policy advisor Juan Cardoza-Oquendo, Ellis addressed the weeks news of chemical plant fires. The two industrial fires of this week in Deer Park and Baytown, remind us of the urgency of investing in low-income and immigrant communities resilience, Ellis said. The commissioner added that he supports the plans recommendations, will work to implement them and said he calls on fellow government officials and nonprofits to play their part in bringing the recommendations to fruition. Other notable recommendations include affordable housing built outside of floodplains, an automated emergency notification system that allows Harris County residents to opt-out of the system, improved multi-lingual and multi-cultural disaster communication systems, and heightened and enforced labor protections for workers involved in clean-up of either natural or manmade disasters. Marianela Acuna Arreaza, executive director of Fe y Justicia Worker Center, noted that in the wake of disasters, labor laws can be put on pause, especially when dealing with an undocumented labor force. The chemical plant fires in Deer Park this week are of particular concern, she said, when it comes to the safety and health of the clean-up crew, and whether they will receive appropriate healthy and safety training and equipment. The last two weeks have reminded us of the importance of having a plan like this, Arreaza said. Vickery said the next steps include strategizing with nonprofits and government agencies on how to best implement the recommendations. ileana.najarro@chron.com twitter.com/IleanaNajarro UPDATE: Walter White was a 42-year-old black man who died March 23 from multiple gunshot wounds at 14400 Alrover, Houston. ORIGINAL STORY: A man was found lying shot to death in the street Saturday morning in south Houston. Police were searching the area near Alrover Street and Brookfield Drive for video surveillance, said Houston police Detective Kyle Heaverlo. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox Early Saturday, police had yet to uncover details about the suspect or what motivated the shooting. Officials received a call reporting the shooting shortly after midnight Saturday. RELATED: Teen shoots girl while playing with gun in Katy The victim appeared to be a black male in his late 30s or early 40s, Heaverlo said. 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 worst kind of politics plays on the emotions of people when they are most vulnerable. That appears to be the case with Gov. Greg Abbott, who has been shamelessly exploiting the widow of a slain state trooper to push a bail reform bill that would do little to change the current system other than give his office more control over it. The bill sponsored by state Rep. Kyle Kacal, R-College Station, is named in honor of Damon Allen, the state trooper fatally shot on Thanksgiving Day 2017 while making a routine traffic stop in Freestone County. Kacal represents Mexia, where Allen and his wife Kasey lived with their three children. She has courageously appeared on TV and at other public events to talk about her husbands death and support Kacals bill. Unfortunately, Kacals bill isnt what Texas needs. The bill doesnt include reforms Harris County made to settle the long-standing lawsuit against its bail system. It doesnt fix similar problems prompting lawsuits in Galveston County and Dallas County. It falls far short of reforms urged by Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht. Hecht has been saying for years Texas should stop incarcerating poor people just because they cant afford to post bail. A bill to fix that problem sponsored by state Sen. John Whitmire, D-Houston, failed in 2017. New legislation, also called the Damon Allen Act, sponsored by Whitmire and state Rep. Andrew Murr, R-Junction, needs Abbotts help to avoid the same fate. Abbott made clear, though, in an appearance with Kasey Allen in Waco last August that his focus isnt on poor defendants. Texas will take meaningful steps to reform our bail system so that we can better protect innocent life, keep violent criminals off our streets, and prevent tragedies like the death of Damon Allen, Abbott said. We all want to prevent such tragedies, and Whitmires bill helps do that in a more comprehensive way. It focuses on the unfairness of a system that would free a violent suspect who can afford to post bail while a poor person accused of a nonviolent crime could be locked up for months. That unconstitutional discrepancy led to the death of Sandra Bland, who was arrested during a 2017 traffic stop and held because she couldnt pay her bond. She committed suicide three days later in the Waller County jail. Both the Whitmire and Kacal bills would create a risk assessment system to help judges set bail. Whitmires bill, however, would correctly have the state Office of Court Administration develop the risk assessment process. Kacal would create an agency within the governors office to do it. That may be unconstitutional since it would blend executive and judicial functions. Even if its legal, its a bad idea to give that responsibility to an office heavily influenced by politics. Whitmires bill is the only one that seeks to make statewide the kinds of reform that years of litigation in Houston and Dallas and across the nation have proven necessary. Individuals accused but not yet convicted of crimes should not remain in jail just because they cant afford to post bond. Another weakness in Kacals bill is the way it would limit bail decisions in felony and some misdemeanor cases to district or associate judges and take that authority away from magistrates and justices of the peace. That means people arrested in rural counties could wait days for bail to be set. More disturbing is how Abbott seems to have persuaded Trooper Allens widow to travel across the state to promote Kacals bill. A bad bail decision played a crucial role in her husbands death, but so did other factors. Awaiting trial for killing Allen is Dabrett Black, a Lindale man with a history of violence, including two previous run-ins with police. Those episodes, though, may have had more to do with Blacks mental condition than anything else. Blacks family says the Army veteran came home after serving three tours in Iraq hearing voices and sleeping with his guns. Black was arrested in 2015 for beating up a Smith County sheriffs deputy, but prosecutors allowed him to plead to a misdemeanor. He was arrested in July 2017 for ramming his car into a police cruiser during a chase, but was freed on $15,000 bond. The justice of the peace who set Blacks $15,000 bond said he didnt know about his earlier charges. Thats an argument for judges to have all the information they need to make the right bail decisions, including up-to-date arrest records. Its also an argument for a better mental health system and a more responsive Veterans Administration. As tragic as it was, Trooper Allens death is not an argument for passing a bail reform bill that doesnt address unconstitutional bail practices across the state. Whitmire says he wants to work with Abbott and Kacal to make sure good legislation passes. With two months left in the session, they need to get busy. I used to have a running conversation with an older, white, male column-writing colleague about how your skin tone impacts your credibility. He used to stroll over to my desk in the newsroom, practically get on bended knee and ask for the hand of my immigration issue du jour. I dont want to poach in your pond, Esther, hed always say. My response never changed: If I write about immigrant rights, Im a biased activist with unchecked self-interest because of my ethnicity. If you write about it, youre an informed and impartial advocate for an important and growing segment of the community. You practically need to write about this more than I do. And so it went whenever news broke about a Hispanic worker getting hurt in an unsafe workplace, immigration legislation moving forward or generalized xenophobia rearing its ugly head. It wasnt perfect, but it was a complementary relationship. These sorts of cross-collaborations are thornier today amid questions of who can speak for whom and who should shut up and let others have their chance to talk. After all, theres no shortage of black, Hispanic, Native American and Asian experts in their fields who have been ignored or simply discounted when pointing out the ways in which the United States has nurtured racism, white supremacy and power imbalances. But, realistically, when white males make bold claims, people listen. So we can embrace their voices in the hopes of getting people to pay attention to critical issues they might otherwise ignore. For example, one recent book that can help shed light on a key political moment for all of us is How Fascism Works: The Politics of Us and Them by Jason Stanley. He makes the case for truth as the bedrock of freedom and details how propaganda and rhetoric enflame the move toward fascism. In an interview earlier this month, he explained to me why, contrary to popular perception on the left, we cant quite use the f-word with our president. I dont think Trump is ruling as a fascist, Stanley said. But classic fascists like Hitler and Mussolini campaigned against globalists seeking to destroy the nation and reminded us about past greatness that involved eliminating rampant crime and the threat of liberal conspiracies designed to bring leftist immigrants into the country. It sounds awfully familiar as, simultaneously, far-right nationalism flowers in places like Russia, Hungary, Poland, India, Turkey, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and the U.S. Stanley, however, marks a clear distinction between fascist tactics that are used as a mechanism to grab power and an explicitly fascist state ruled by a truly authoritarian leader. And he does it while standing apart from other philosophers and other commentators whose parents fled Europe as refugees in his acknowledgment of how racism and inequality fuel political divisions. Where I agree with the lefts critique of Trump is that weve always had this kind of propaganda in Mein Kampf, Hitler praises the 1924 U.S. immigration act and praises white supremacy, said Stanley, who is a philosophy professor at Yale. But my work differs from that of others because I focus on how the present is not actually a break from the past. Russian propaganda exploits already existing inequalities and exacerbates them with the goal of showing that democracy is fake and that ethnic groups can do nothing more than fight each other. Stanley told me his book is radically different from other end-of-democracy books because it forces us to look at race relations and look at persistent achievement and wage gaps between blacks and whites and see that our present is a continuity of our past, not a break from it. My book is based on African-American history, on Hitlers American model, on the impact of mass incarcerations of black people, on the super predator criminal justice theory that laid the groundwork for Trump, Stanley said. Whether we like it or not, the history of marginalized groups in the U.S. is a topic few white people seek out on their own. And Stanleys chilling book does a great job of getting to the heart of why truth is the critical prerequisite for both equality and liberty. If Stanley can help spoon-feed his insights to the very people already invested in seeking justice for everyone impacted by President Trumps misguided, ill-informed and frankly ignorant policy declarations, then so be it. Maybe Stanleys work can be a jumping-off point for critical discussions about race, ethnicity, male privilege and white privilege that rule the current political moment especially among the portion of the population that thinks these baked-in power imbalances dont really exist. Wouldnt such dialogues be a refreshing alternative to simply blaming all of our political polarization and the death of truth and facts on the reliable and supposedly race-blind excuse of white economic anxiety? Cepeda writes a syndicated column for the Washington Post. There is much to like in the school finance legislation being considered at the Texas Capitol: significant new resources for schools, fewer local tax dollars taken away by the Robin Hood system and the reworking of outdated formulas. Each of these goals is commendable. But there is one aspect of school finance legislation that is particularly critical to our children and our business climate, and thats a sizable investment in pre-kindergarten for more children. Fortunately, the school finance bill filed in the Texas House takes a major step in that direction, but we are a long way from a final product. As the Legislature completes its once-in-a-generation effort to overhaul the school finance system, all who understand that education is our greatest economic development tool have a responsibility to speak up and advocate for a robust investment in pre-K over the next couple of months. Studies show that children enrolled in quality pre-K programs are more likely to be ready for kindergarten, and students who are ready for kindergarten achieve at higher levels for years after kindergarten. Pre-K helps put children especially low-income children on an early path to success and improved academic performance. Providing high-quality pre-kindergarten today prevents many problems that only become more expensive to address later, from sagging academic performance to behavioral issues. An investment in pre-K is like buying stock early in a high-tech start-up. Early investments can lead to the business future success and produce exponential returns. Texas grows twice as fast as the rest of the country, but our economic engine will sputter if we dont have a large and diverse pool of well-educated workers. After all, about two-thirds of the jobs that will be created in coming years will require a two- or four-year college degree, according to Texas 2036, a group that is highlighting some of our states coming challenges. Today, only about 21 percent of Texas adults have some type of college degree. One of the first things I did as a state legislator was file a bill to make every child in the Texas foster care system eligible for pre-K. Thousands of our most vulnerable students have benefited in the decade since. In fact, there has been strong support for pre-K among legislators from both parties for some time. However, fierce opposition from some activists and a gubernatorial veto of a 2009 pre-K quality initiative deflated enthusiasm for pre-K , which slowed progress on significant investments and real reform until now. Even those of us who support pre-K could have done more to invest it in these last couple of years. But the funding on the table was less sustainable and less ambitious than what is now gaining traction at the Capitol. Fortunately, the politics of pre-K have improved. The research on the effectiveness of pre-K has only become more compelling. The chorus for pre-K now includes educators, business, liberals and conservatives. In fact, a recent poll from the education advocacy group Raise Your Hand Texas found that a resounding supermajority of Texans 82.5 percent of poll respondents believe pre-K levels the playing field for school readiness. Texans want pre-K and our elected officials are acting in response. The major school finance legislation in the Texas House, House Bill 3, creates a guaranteed allotment for full-day pre-kindergarten for 4-year-olds from low-income, military, homeless and select other families. Instead of grant programs that come and go, this promise to our children would be the most significant commitment our state has ever made to pre-K . The opportunity to strengthen early-childhood education is especially compelling this year. The states budget outlook is healthy, there is growing awareness of the need to reform school finance and voters have expressed support for education. This moment cannot go to waste. Parents, business, educators and all Texans should fight for our future by supporting a lasting investment in full-day, high-quality pre-kindergarten. Straus is a former state representative from Bexar County who also served as speaker of the Texas House of Representatives from 2009 to 2019. Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print. Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition. If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create. 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. iciHaiti - Security : Review of the operation Chacal Police Commissioner Michel-Ange Louis-Jeune, spokesman of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) Wednesday made a review of the operation "Chacal" launched in late December 2018 until 20 March 2019, for the West, North and South. In summary : 62 arrested, seizeure of 15 firearms and ammunition, 6 chargers, 2 million pesos, 3.6 million gourdes, 0.5 kg of cocaine and 10 vehicles confiscated. Those arrested have been charged with, among other things, murder, money laundering, drug trafficking and possession, illegal possession of firearms, rape, kidnapping for ransom, criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, etc...0 Moreover, in the last 3 months, Commissioner Louis-Jeune has revealed that 10 minors aged 4 to 15 years were raped. Michel-Ange Louis Jeune took the opportunity to solicit the collaboration of citizens to help the police institution to fight against bandits and other criminals ... TB/ iciHaiti Imperial Valley News Center Australian Woman Convicted of Assault and Interference with Crew on Flight That Landed at LAX Los Angeles, California - An Australian woman who assaulted a flight attendant during a United Airlines flight from Melbourne to Los Angeles International Airport earlier this year has been found guilty of federal charges. Adau Akui Atem Mornyang, 24, of Victoria, Australia, was convicted on Thursday in relation to a January 21 incident in which she appeared to be intoxicated and was verbally and physically abusive to personnel and other passengers during the flight. The jury found Mornyang guilty of a felony charge of interference with a flight crew and a misdemeanor assault count. According to the evidence presented at trial, several hours into the flight, passengers approached a flight attendant to complain about Mornyangs disruptive behavior, which included flailing her arms and yelling obscenities and racial slurs. When the flight attendant approached to assess the situation, Mornyang began to shout at the flight attendant and then slapped him across his face. The flight attendant attempted to restrain Mornyang until federal air marshals could assist. The federal air marshals were forced to stay with Mornyang in the rear galley of the plane for the remainder of the flight. Mornyang is scheduled to be sentenced on June 24 by United States District Judge Cormac J. Carney. As a result of the guilty verdicts returned on March 14, Mornyang faces a statutory maximum sentence of 21 years in federal prison. This case was investigated by the FBI, which received assistance from the Federal Air Marshals and the Los Angeles Airport Police Department. The case against Mornyang is being prosecuted Assistant United States Attorneys MiRi Song and Kevin Reidy of the General Crimes Section. Imperial Valley News Center Wanted by the FBI: San Diego FBI Teen Academy Applicants San Diego, California - The San Diego FBI is now accepting FBI Teen Academy applications. WHO: High School Sophomore/Juniors from San Diego and Imperial Counties WHAT: FBI Teen AcademySan Diego Division WHEN: Applications accepted: March 1April 15, 2019 Class Dates: June 25, 2019 and July 23, 2019 Class Dates: June 25, 2019 and July 23, 2019 WHERE: FBI San Diego10385 Vista Sorrento Parkway, San Diego, California 92121 WHY: Leadership, Opportunity, Career, Community Partnership, Mentorship THE FBI TEEN ACADEMY The FBI Teen Academy is an opportunity for students to spend an interactive day with special agents and professional staff at the FBI building in Sorrento Valley. Students will participate in both classroom and hands-on activities while learning about the FBIs core values. For example, classes will offer an insiders look at FBI investigations into gangs, drugs, and terrorism as well as involve discussions about the FBIs use of computer forensics in cyber investigations. Students will also gain hands-on experience in areas such as crime scene and forensic techniques as well as tactical operations. Students will engage in candid conversations with FBI staff about online communication and its risks as well as lifestyle choices required to be eligible for careers at the FBI. After completing the class, students will be more aware of the challenges their communities face and better understand how the FBI protects and serves their community. Teen Academy graduates are encouraged to mentor their peers by sharing the knowledge they have gained through this FBI experience. ELIGIBILITY The FBI Teen Academy is open to high school sophomores or juniors enrolled in a public, private, charter, or home school program. The applicant must currently attend school within San Diego or Imperial County to be eligible to apply to the San Diego FBI Teen Academy. TEEN ACADEMY CLASS DATES FBI San Diegos 2018 Teen Academy will take place on June 25, 2019 and July 23, 2019, at the San Diego Field Office in Sorrento Valley. APPLICATION PROCESS The FBIs Teen Academy application process allows for the identification of a diverse pool of students who are capable leaders and have an interest in the FBI. An essay is required of all applicants. The essay should provide insight into the students motivations for attending the Teen Academy as well as address the students expectations of the Teen Academy. All applications should highlight the students school activities and community involvement, which will be an important part of the criteria used to evaluate the applicants. Applications, supporting essay, and release form must be received by the FBI San Diego field office by April 15, 2019. Incomplete and late applications will not be accepted. LINK TO APPLICATION https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/fbi-san-diego-teen-academy-application-2019.pdf/view https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/sandiego Send completed applications to: FBI San Diego, Attn: Community Outreach Specialist, 10385 Vista Sorrento Parkway, San Diego, California 92121. Stockton Couple Convicted of Human Trafficking Charges Related to Forced Labor of Foreign Nationals Sacramento, California - After an 11-day trial, a federal jury found Satish Kartan, 45, and his wife, Sharmistha Barai, 40, guilty on March 14 of conspiracy to obtain forced labor and two counts of obtaining forced labor. In addition, Kartan was found guilty of fraud in foreign labor contracting. Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Department of Justices Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott, Matthew Perlman, Special Agent in Charge of the of the Diplomatic Security Service San Francisco Field Office, Sean Ragan, Special Agent in Charge of the Sacramento FBI Field Office, and Ryan L. Spradlin, the Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in Northern California made the announcement. Human trafficking is a disgraceful and unacceptable crime. The defendants in this case took advantage of overseas workers, forcing them to work without pay, physically abusing them, and threatening negative repercussions if they tried to leave, said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband. "The Justice Department will continue to investigate and vigorously prosecute human traffickers in order to bring justice to victims. These defendants exploited one victim after another, using them to labor in their home, failing to pay wages and depriving them of basic human rights, said U.S. Attorney Scott. The U.S. Attorneys Office continues its commitment to protect and defend vulnerable members of our society from human trafficking. The Diplomatic Security Service will continue to pursue those who abuse domestic worker visas to manipulate and exploit their employees for personal gain," said Matthew Perlman, Special Agent in Charge of the of the Diplomatic Security Service San Francisco Field Office. "DSSs strong relationship with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of California continues to be essential in the pursuit of justice. Kartan and Barai did not simply fail to pay victims for their work, said Sean Ragan, Special Agent in Charge of the Sacramento FBI Field Office. They deprived them of their dignity and robbed them of their federally protected civil rights. The FBI will work with partner agencies to protect victims of human trafficking wherever that crime occurs. Millions of people worldwide are affected by this type of forced labor and human trafficking, said Ryan L. Spradlin, the Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in Northern California. This case is a testament of the dedication of HSI and our law enforcement partners. We are committed to working together to eradicate these deplorable crimes from our community. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between February 2014 and October 2016, Kartan and Barai hired workers from overseas to perform domestic labor in their home in Stockton. In advertisements seeking workers on the internet and India-based newspapers, the defendants made false claims regarding the wages and the duties of employment. Then, once the workers arrived at the defendants Stockton residence, Kartan and Barai forced them to work 18 hours a day with limited rest and nourishment. Few of them were paid any wage. The defendants kept their domestic workers from leaving and induced them to keep working for them by threatening them, by creating an atmosphere of fear, control, and disempowerment, and at times by physically hitting or burning them. When a victim pushed back or said she wanted to leave, it got worse. Victims flew from India and Nepal to testify. According to evidence presented at trial, the defendants struck one worker on multiple occasions. Barai threatened to kill her and throw her bones in the garbage, backhanded her across the face for talking back, and slammed her hands down on a gas stove, causing her to suffer first and second degree burns on her hands from the flames. The defendants also threatened several other victims to coerce them to keep working, including by telling the victims they would report them to police or immigration authorities if they tried to leave. Throughout the victims time in the defendants home, they were deprived of sleep and food. The defendants subjected the victims to verbal abuse and harassment in an effort to intimidate them into continuing to provide labor and services. Kartan and Barai are scheduled to be sentenced on June 6. Each defendant faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. This case is the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, and the State Departments Diplomatic Security Service. The Stockton Police Department provided the initial investigation and later assistance with victim services. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Hitt and Katherine Lydon are prosecuting the case with the assistance of the Civil Rights Divisions Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit. The Eastern District of California (Sacramento) is one of six districts designated through a competitive, nationwide selection process as a Phase II Anti-Trafficking Coordination Team, through the interagency ACTeam Initiative of the Departments of Justice, Homeland Security and Labor. ACTeams focus on developing high-impact human trafficking investigations and prosecutions involving forced labor, international sex trafficking and sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion through interagency collaboration among federal prosecutors and federal investigative agencies. Accountant Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud Charge for Running Ponzi Scheme Los Angeles, California - A certified public accountant pleaded guilty Wednesday to a federal wire fraud charge for running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded her victims, many of whom were clients of her accounting firm, out of tens of millions of dollars over a span of two decades. Carol Ann Pedersen, 66, of Long Beach, entered her plea before United States District Judge Dolly M. Gee, who scheduled a July 10 sentencing hearing, where Pedersen will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. According to her plea agreement, between 1996 and September 2017, Pedersen executed her scheme by serving as her victims unlicensed investment advisor even though she only was licensed to be a CPA. Through her firm, Carol A. Pedersen, C.P.A., she solicited her accounting clients investments through two types of investment opportunities that she offered: Time Deposit and Client Pool, the plea agreement states. The victims were told that Time Deposit would invest in low-risk securities providing a fixed return on their money after a period of time while Client Pool would invest their money in the stock market through an investment pool Pedersen had established with other investors funds, court papers state. During the course of the scheme, Pedersens victims invested more than $40 million into these accounts and the total loss to the victims was at least $27,550,720.40, according to court documents. Pedersen admitted in her plea agreement that after she took her victims money, she deposited the funds into her personal accounts, and then used that money to pay her credit card bills, establish trust accounts for her family, and purchase real estate. In an effort to avoid detection and in the classic hallmark of a Ponzi scheme, Pedersen used some of her victims money to make distribution payments to her other victims, and she falsely represented the payments as returns on their investments. Pedersen also admitted to avoiding detection by creating fraudulent documents, including false account statements and an online virtual portfolio that she falsely represented enabled her victims to track their investments progress, court papers state. For example, on July 30, 2015, Pedersen wired $3 million from a purported Client Pool account to a personal account that she controlled, the plea agreement states. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. The Securities and Exchange Commission today filed a civil complaint against Pedersen in connection with the fraudulent scheme. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Julian Andre and Alexander Wyman of the Major Frauds Section. Barbra Streisand has sparked controversy after she appeared to sympathise with Michael Jackson, despite also saying she "absolutely" believes that the late pop star sexually abused Wade Robson and James Safechuck. "His [Jackson's] sexual needs were his sexual needs," she told The Times, "coming from whatever childhood he has or whatever DNA he has. You can say 'molested' but those children, as you heard say, they were thrilled to be there. They both married and they both have children, so it didn't kill them." Streisand, who is scheduled to headline British Summer Time Festival in London this summer, went on to say that she has "a combination of feelings" about the allegations and that she blames the parents of Jackson's alleged victims for what happened. "I feel bad for the children," she said. "I feel bad for him. I blame, I guess, the parents, who would allow their children to sleep with him." Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Show all 9 1 /9 Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Michael Jackson with accuser Wade Robson Sundance Insitute Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Accuser Wade Robson meeting Michael Jackson for the first time Channel 4 Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Michael Jackson with the Robson family Channel 4 Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Michael Jackson at the home of accuser James Safechuck Channel 4 Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Dan Reed approached the Michael Jackson documentary with 'all the scepticism and rigorousness that I would approach a story about a terrorist attack' Channel 4 Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Michael Jackson leaves the courtroom on a break at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse for the second day of closing arguments in his child molestation trial in Santa Maria, California, 2005 AFP/Getty Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Michael Jackson accuser Wade Robson Channel 4 Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers James Safechuck, another of Jackson's accusers Channel 4 Leaving Neverland photos show Michael Jackson with his accusers Leaving Neverland director Dan Reed Channel 4 Streisand's comments caused uproar on social media, with Leaving Neverland director Dan Reed writing on Twitter: "'It didn't kill them', @BarbraStreisand, did you really just say that?'" Others on Twitter called the comments "outrageous and perplexing". "You can't simultaneously say you believe accuses *and* say it wasn't the accused's fault," wrote NPR's Alexander McCall. The Leaving Neverland documentary has been met with polarising views over the allegations of sexual abuse against Jackson. His estate and family members have condemned those involved and branded Safechuck and Robson as "opportunists" and "liars". Many radio stations have chosen to remove Jackson from their playlists. However, Robson has said the question as to whether fans can still listen to his music is "not really my concern... if I have any hope it would be that we question, in general, who we are worshipping and why, so it's beyond Michael". The Independent has reached out to Streisand's representatives for comment. Mark Duggans family are suing the Metropolitan Police over the fatal shooting that sparked nationwide riots in 2011. An inquest jury found the 29-year-old was lawfully killed after armed officers stopped the minicab he was travelling in because of intelligence he was carrying a gun. A police watchdog, which cleared officers of wrongdoing, found Duggan was likely to have been throwing the weapon to one side as he was shot, but conflicting witness accounts left his family unsatisfied and communities deeply divided over the case. Civil proceedings being brought by his mother Pamela Duggan, and some of his children, accuse Scotland Yard of liability for the death and seek compensation. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said: We have received a civil claim from Mark Duggans family. It would be inappropriate to discuss further while the matter is ongoing. London riots spiral out of control Show all 21 1 /21 London riots spiral out of control London riots spiral out of control 633966.bin GETTY IMAGES London riots spiral out of control 633903.bin Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633902.bin Reuters London riots spiral out of control 633790.bin Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633798.bin Matthew Lloyd/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633793.bin Leon Neal/AFP/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633796.bin Matthew Lloyd/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633797.bin Matthew Lloyd/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633799.bin Matthew Lloyd/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633681.bin GETTY IMAGES London riots spiral out of control 633795.bin Leon Neal/AFP/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633800.bin Leon Neal/AFP/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633801.bin Leon Neal/AFP/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633568.bin Getty Images Europe London riots spiral out of control 633569.bin PA London riots spiral out of control 633802.bin Leon Neal/AFP/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633821.bin Dan Kitwood/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633570.bin Rex Features London riots spiral out of control 633822.bin Dan Kitwood/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633823.bin Dan Kitwood/Getty Images London riots spiral out of control 633824.bin Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Supporters hope that a lower standard of proof in civil proceedings, where findings must be based on the balance of probabilities, could produce a different outcome than past proceedings. Duggan was shot dead by an armed officer known as V53 on 4 August 2011, sparking protests in Tottenham that spiralled into days of riots, arson and looting in London, Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester and other English cities. A three-month long inquest held in 2014 examined evidence from more than 93 witnesses to conclude that Duggan was lawfully killed. It heard that Duggan was an active member of one of the most serious criminal gangs in Europe and was believed to be responsible for shooting a man in a nightclub, with intelligence reports suggesting he was storing drugs and seeking a gun. Duggan collected a handgun from drug dealer Kevin Hutchinson-Foster, who was later jailed for supplying the weapon, minutes before he was shot dead. Lawyers representing his family suggested police had planted a handgun found on grass 14ft away from his body, but the jury concluded that Duggan had discarded it as the car came to a stop. V53 said he thought the weapon, hidden in a sock, was pointed in his direction and he opened fire in self-defence. The jury decided the officer honestly believed his life was at risk. But it found unanimously that both Scotland Yard and the Serious Organised Crime Agency could have done more to gather and react to intelligence before the shooting. London Riots Duggans family launched a legal challenge over the inquests conclusions but in 2017, Court of Appeal judges ruled the eight to two majority verdict was lawful. The armed officers involved in the shooting were cleared of any wrongdoing by the Independent Police Complaints Commission in 2015, following a three-and-a-half year investigation. The watchdog found there was no credible evidence to uphold complaints by Duggans family that police had moved the gun or that V53 did not use lawful force. It called for the use of audio and video recording in undercover firearms operations, because the lack of evidence made it difficult, and on occasions impossible, to know with absolute certainty what happened. Armed police officers across the UK now wear body-worn cameras, which are also being rolled out to regular officers in some forces. Islamophobic incidents have rocketed by almost 600 per cent in Britain following the New Zealand terror attack, a monitor has reported. Tell Mama said that in the week after 50 Muslim worshippers were gunned down, offenders used language, symbols or actions linked to the atrocity to target Muslims in the UK. Cases included people making impressions of pointing a pistol to Muslim women and comments about British Muslims, and an association with actions taken by the terrorist in New Zealand, the monitor said. It came after an alleged terror incident linked to the Christchurch massacre, attacks on mosques in Birmingham and several arrests over online statements. The 593 per cent week-on-week rise is higher than that seen after the 2017 Manchester bombing, which was cited as an inspiration for Finsbury Park attacker Darren Osborne to plough a van into Muslims leaving prayers. 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 Iman Atta OBE, the director of Tell Mama, said the spike was troubling and shows that some people see Muslims as fair game for hate. She added: It is now clear that we have an ongoing and persistent ideology of hate that is generating a focus on Muslims. Muslims in New Zealand were killed and British Muslims feel the anger of bigots. It is perverse. Ben Wallace, the security minister, has said an atrocity like the Christchurch attack absolutely could happen in the UK. Official statistics show that 43 per cent of suspected terrorists arrested were white in 2018, compared to 32 per cent who were Asian. Assistant commissioner Neil Basu, the head of UK counterterror policing, has voiced his concern over rising hate crime and said it could be a proxy measure for the rising far-right threat. Tell Mamas annual report for 2017 recorded a record number of anti-Muslim attacks and warned of a marked shift towards more serious offline incidents like physical attacks, vandalism and abuse, as hatred continues to spread on social media. The charity said perpetrators felt emboldened by terror attacks and political discourse. Women in New Zealand wear headscarves to show solidarity with Christchurch shooting victims Separate Home Office figures showed that more than half of the rising number of religious hate crimes reported to police are now targeting Muslims. But officers are failing to identify suspects for almost half of racially and religiously aggravated attacks in parts of the UK, following years of budget cuts resulting in crime prioritisation strategies. Patrols have been increased around mosques and places of worship since the New Zealand attack, which struck on 15 March. Commander Mark McEwan, of the Metropolitan Police, said officers would continue the work over the next week, adding: There continues to be no intelligence linking the appalling events in Christchurch with the UK, however, we understand how some people will be feeling concerned and vulnerable. A man remains in custody on suspicion of smashing the windows of five mosques in Birmingham an incident that sparked an investigation by counterterror police. Another case, where a man was stabbed in Surrey, is being treated as an alleged terror attack after the perpetrator shouted religious and racial slurs. Other incidents seeing Muslims targeted in recent days include an alleged hammer attack near a London mosque, the abuse of a taxi driver in Rochdale and online threats related to the Christchurch shooting. The government has announced increased funding for security at mosques and other places of worship. But groups must individually bid for chunks of the 1.6m pot, which is also open to Christian churches, Hindu temples, Sikh gurdwaras and other places of worship. Security for Jewish communities is separately awarded 14m annual government funding via the Community Security Trust, and the Muslim Council of Britain said the schemes were not proportionate. A separate 5m fund will be spread over three years to provide protective security training for staff and volunteers at religious institutions. Protesters demanding a second referendum on Brexit mocked David Davis on Saturday by unfurling a banner emblazoned with one of the former cabinet ministers old statements. If a democracy cannot change its mind, it ceases to be a democracy, was the quote written on the banner. It comes from a speech which Mr Davis, a former Brexit secretary, made in November 2012 about the UKs relationship with the EU. His speech was strongly critical of the organisation but protesters on Saturday claimed his earlier stance was inconsistent with his current opposition to a second referendum. On Saturday an estimated million people marched through central London to demand a second vote on the UK leaving the EU. Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Show all 50 1 /50 Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Best signs from the Put It To The People protest A cheerful reminder Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest I will always love EU EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Naughty Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Bridget Jones vox populi Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Anyone fancy a spot of birdwatching? Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Not the only one EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest 800sqm banner of a David Davis quote in Parliament Square Led By Donkeys/PA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Does anyone? 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AP Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest AP Simultaneously a petition calling for the UK government to revoke Article 50 and reverse the Brexit process became the most signed petition to ever be submitted to parliament. The banner was unfurled by campaigners from Led By Donkeys, an anti-Brexit group and For our Futures Sake, a youth group calling for a Peoples Vote on the UKs departure from the EU. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Despite what some campaigners view as an increasing amount of support for a second referendum, Theresa May, the UKs prime minister, opposes the measure. A million protesters are estimated to be marching through central London demanding a second referendum on Brexit, organisers have said, in one of the biggest demonstrations to be held in the UK in the 21st century. The estimate, provided by the People's Vote UK, would make it the biggest march to be held in the UK since the Iraq War protest in 2003. Follow The Independent's live updates from the march here The anti-war demonstration also saw around a million people march in central London. "#Breaking: 1 million estimated to be on the #PutItToThePeopleMarch," said Chuka Ummuna, newly independent MP for Streatham and one of the founders of the People's Vote campaign. Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Show all 50 1 /50 Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Best signs from the Put It To The People protest A cheerful reminder Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest I will always love EU EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Naughty Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Bridget Jones vox populi Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Anyone fancy a spot of birdwatching? Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Not the only one EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest 800sqm banner of a David Davis quote in Parliament Square Led By Donkeys/PA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Does anyone? 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Tom Bell Best signs from the Put It To The People protest The sane voice of youth Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Needs must Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest The scarier sequel Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest 'Tis only a flesh wound EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Put the kettle on Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest What's scarier - a shark attack or Brexit? 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Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Ikea's set the bar high Getty Best signs from the Put It To The People protest This picture puzzle is pretty darn clear Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Witty wordplay EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Wonder Woman's battle cry for unity Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest No one can question the wisdom of Spock PA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest The younger generation has spoken AP Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Throw us a bone here AP Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Canine stay in the EU? AP Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest AP Mariella Frostrup and Richard Bacon, who hosted a rally during the march in Parliament Square, told the crowds an initial count showed the amount of people taking part had topped one million. Anna Soubry, who is affiliated to the newly-founded Independent Group along with Mr Ummuna, was filmed cheering in reaction to the news. "We've just heard how many people have come along to the #PutItToThePeopleMarch in London today," a spokesperson for The Independent Group said on Twitter. "Incredible support from people along the route too. Thank you." Anti-Brexit protesters began walking from Park Lane to Parliament Square on Saturday morning. A group of activists from a group called the "Left Block" kicked off the march by unfurling of a large banner over Westminster Bridge that read Love socialism, hate Brexit. In Parliament Square, Labour's deputy leader Tom Watson is expected to tell demonstrators that the only way to resolve the Brexit gridlock is "for people themselves to sign it off". Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and London mayor Sadiq Khan are also expected to take the stage. Other speakers will include former Conservative cabinet minister Justine Greening and ex-attorney general Dominic Grieve, newly independent MP Anna Soubry, Lib Dem deputy leader Jo Swinson, Green Party MP Caroline Lucas and SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford. On Saturday in Madrid, around 100 British expats also rallied against Britain leaving the EU. The demonstrations follow EU leaders agreeing to delay the UK's exit from the organisation, giving Theresa May a final chance to get her withdrawal deal through parliament. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Leaders agreed that Brexit will go into effect on 22 May, if the prime minister can get MPs to back her deal in a third vote on the issue. It has already been rejected by MPs in two votes on the issue and on Saturday The Times newspaper reported that pressure was growing on the prime minister to resign. If the deal fails to pass once again, the UK will have to set out an alternative way forward by 12 April, which could mean a much longer delay - with the UK required to hold elections to the European Parliament - or leaving with no deal. An online petition asking the government to stop Brexit process topped four million signatures by Saturday morning. It is now the most popular ever submitted to the UK parliament website, moving ahead of a 2016 petition calling for a second EU referendum. Additional reporting by agencies A petition calling on the government to halt the Brexit process has reached five million signatures, becoming the most popular to be submitted to the parliament website. Titled Revoke Article 50 and remain in the EU, it also has the highest rate of sign-ups on record, according to the official Petitions Committee, adding more than two million signatures in 24 hours. The official website has crashed numerous times since the petition leapt in popularity on Wednesday, with MPs and celebrities publicly backing the appeal, including Jennifer Saunders, Hugh Grant and Brian Cox. Parliament considers holding debates about any petition that gets more than 100,000 signatures. However, some remain sceptical about whether they can force changes in government policy. Here, The Independent looks at the five other most-signed petitions to parliament and whether they have been successful in achieving their aims. 1. Revoke Article 50 (5.5 million signatures so far) Despite the growing campaign to revoke Article 50, Theresa May has said Brexit will go ahead. Speaking at Downing Street on Wednesday, she blamed MPs for failing to implement the result of the 2016 EU referendum and told frustrated voters: I am on your side. Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Show all 50 1 /50 Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Best signs from the Put It To The People protest A cheerful reminder Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest I will always love EU EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Naughty Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Bridget Jones vox populi Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Anyone fancy a spot of birdwatching? Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Not the only one EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest 800sqm banner of a David Davis quote in Parliament Square Led By Donkeys/PA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Does anyone? Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Prime concern Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Managing well to keep their wigs on Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Name a more moronic duo. I'll wait EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Is telekinetic intervention the only way out of the Brexit mess? Tom Bell Best signs from the Put It To The People protest The sane voice of youth Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Needs must Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest The scarier sequel Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest 'Tis only a flesh wound EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Put the kettle on Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest What's scarier - a shark attack or Brexit? EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest An artistic take Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest A cryptic one Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest As a matter of fact EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest A windy one Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest A pioneering solution Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Analogies EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest A joyful image EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Generation Z priorities Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest You're never too young to march for change PA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest A cheesy line PA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest The number one single Getty Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Quite the point Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Do you? Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Allegedly Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Let's be considerate PA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Something smells foul Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Stuck in the middle with EU Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Decked out Angela Christofilou / The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Is it too late? Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Ikea's set the bar high Getty Best signs from the Put It To The People protest This picture puzzle is pretty darn clear Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Witty wordplay EPA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Wonder Woman's battle cry for unity Reuters Best signs from the Put It To The People protest No one can question the wisdom of Spock PA Best signs from the Put It To The People protest The younger generation has spoken AP Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Throw us a bone here AP Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Canine stay in the EU? AP Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best signs from the Put It To The People protest AP 2. Second EU referendum (4.1 million signatures) This petition, calling for a second EU referendum, was set by a Brexit activist in 2016 before the vote had even taken place, because he feared the Remain camp could win. But after his sides narrow victory, he said the petition was hijacked by Remainers demanding a fresh vote. The government has repeatedly refused to hold a new referendum, saying it is committed to implementing the result. 3. Block Trumps state visit (1.8 million signatures) Created the wake of Donald Trumps victory in the 2016 US election, this petition sought to block him from receiving an official state visit to the UK. It claimed he would cause embarrassment to Her Majesty the Queen due to his well documented misogyny and vulgarity. The government, however, dismissed the petition and has welcomed Mr Trump for two visits in the past two years, including an audience with the Queen. 4. Give people a Final Say on Brexit deal (1.2 million signatures so far) Run by The Independent, the Final Say campaign calls for the British people the right to make that all-important decision on the Brexit deal. Regardless of how you voted in the first referendum, you deserve a say on the final deal. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events 5. Give the meningitis B vaccine to all children (823,000 signatures) This petition, set up in late 2015, urged the government to roll out its meningitis vaccination scheme to children aged up to 11, arguing that all children are at risk from this terrible infection. The Department of Health has yet to extend the programme but argues that it offers protection to those at highest risk. 6. Ban Trump from visiting the UK (586,000 signatures) Also created in 2015, soon after Mr Trump began his presidential campaign, this petition sought to block him from entering the UK due to his hate speech against minorities. In a statement the Home Office said it recognised the strength of feelings against [his] remarks but did not impose any ban on Mr Trump. Revoking Article 50 and scrapping Brexit altogether could be the only way to escape the car crash created by Theresa May, George Osborne has said. The former chancellor sided with the astonishing 4 million people who have signed an online petition, saying: Thats the emergency stop button. Mr Osborne, who was sacked by the prime minister in 2016, said his preference was for a long delay to Brexit, allowing the UK to rethink how to deliver on the referendum result. But he said Ms May herself had put revoking the exit notice on the agenda with her disastrous Downing Street statement, appearing to pave the way for the vandalism of a no-deal Brexit. Suddenly this moment came when it looked like the prime minister was taking us out of the EU without a deal in just seven days time, Mr Osborne said. Recommended Jeremy Corbyn refuses to rule out revoking Article 50 At that point, the only break-glass-in-an-emergency option that exists is to revoke Article 50 because that is the only thing Britain can do by itself and it doesnt need the consent of the EU. "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Show all 15 1 /15 "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage waves from the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus on the march from Sunderland to London Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers pass a sign to "Cuckoo Land" in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher holds up a blue passport as the march passes Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses for a photo in a pub in Hartlepool Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage pays his respects to Tommy, the statue of a First World War soldier in Seaham, County Durham Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march An anti-Brexit van has been graffitied in Sunderland on the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher carries a Union flag reading "Storm Brexit" in Sunderland Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A couple push a Save Our Sovereignty trolley through a tunnel in Easington, County Durham during the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage enjoys a pint with fellow marchers in Hartlepool Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A pro-European counter-marcher lets off a smoke grenade with the colours of the EU flag Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage leads the march in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage takes part in the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses on the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus in Seaham Getty Thats why millions of people started signing up to that online petition. What it revealed to me, and I think to the country, as the fog of Brexit cleared, is thats the emergency stop button. Mr Osborne, now the editor of the London Evening Standard, also branded Ms May prime minister in name only while declining to say whether she should quit. She cant tell ministers how to vote, she cant sum up her own cabinet meetings and shes got no majority in parliament, so it feels like shes running out of road, he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme. This week, Ms May went back to threatening no-deal if the Commons again throws out her agreement, despite previously admitting the outcome would cause huge damage. The motive appeared to be to terrify Labour MPs into voting for her deal when she makes a third and final bid to pass it next week. However, overnight, the prime minister cast doubt on whether the vote will go ahead, telling MPs she would pull it if clearly heading for another huge defeat. If it appears that there is not sufficient support to bring the deal back next week, or the house rejects it again, we can ask for another extension before 12 April but that will involve holding European parliament elections, she said in a letter. If it appears that there is sufficient support and the speaker permits it, we can bring the deal back next week and if it is approved we can leave on 22 May. Nadhim Zahawi, an education minister, warned of a political meltdown if Brexit is delayed further and suggested he and Ms May herself would quit the government. Parliament would have failed. Each and every one of us will have to ask ourselves the question, Am I prepared to go back to my constituents and say were not leaving the EU, were going to go for a much longer extension, and were going to take part in the European elections? Im not prepared to do that. I dont think the prime minister is prepared to do that. Stepping to the side, he said: I was inspired by the energy behind the AOC campaign and this new diverse crop of representatives, so we wanted to celebrate that. The whole thing came together quickly. I contacted a bunch of fellow comic artists, and we pulled together about two dozen writers and artists to do this as kind of anthology comic of different stories. And I didnt put a heavy editorial hand over this. (A story) didnt have to be pro AOC or even pro new-Congress. So we ended up with differences of opinion. Theresa May has hinted she might not go ahead with a third vote on her Brexit deal if there is not enough support for it. The prime minister wrote a letter to MPs following her return from talks with European Union (EU) leaders in Brussels and outlined a clear choice made up of four options. Ms May appeared to immediately rule out one of them revoking Article 50 and remaining in the EU - as a betrayal of the referendum result. She also seemed to accept that leaving with no deal on the new Brexit date of 12 April was not supported by MPs. The remaining options, she said, were to back her Brexit deal and leave on 22 May or ask the EU for another extension which would mean holding elections for British representatives to the European Parliament. "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Show all 15 1 /15 "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage waves from the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus on the march from Sunderland to London Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers pass a sign to "Cuckoo Land" in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher holds up a blue passport as the march passes Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses for a photo in a pub in Hartlepool Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage pays his respects to Tommy, the statue of a First World War soldier in Seaham, County Durham Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march An anti-Brexit van has been graffitied in Sunderland on the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher carries a Union flag reading "Storm Brexit" in Sunderland Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A couple push a Save Our Sovereignty trolley through a tunnel in Easington, County Durham during the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage enjoys a pint with fellow marchers in Hartlepool Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A pro-European counter-marcher lets off a smoke grenade with the colours of the EU flag Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage leads the march in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage takes part in the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses on the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus in Seaham Getty Ms May also attempted to reach out to MPs following criticism of her Wednesday night speech during which she appeared to blame them for the UKs failure to leave the EU on 29 March. Labours Wes Streeting had accused the prime minister of putting MPs lives in danger with an incendiary address while Anna Soubry said she cant go home this weekend because of death threats. Ms May told MPs: I expressed my frustration with our failure to take a decision, but I know that many of you are frustrated too. You have a difficult job to do and it was not my intention to make it any more difficult. People on all sides of the debate hold passionate views and I respect those differences. I would like to thank all of those colleagues that have supported the deal so far and also those that have taken the time to meet me to discuss their concerns. The prime minister travelled to Brussels in the hope of extending Article 50 until 30 June but EU leaders ultimately agreed that the UK could have an unconditional extension until 12 April, and a further extension until 22 May if MPs approved the withdrawal agreement next week. In her letter to MPs, Mrs May wrote: The Councils decisions mean we have a clear choice: 1. We can revoke Article 50 but that would be to betray the result of the referendum. 2. We can leave with no deal on 12 April but the House has previously said this is not something it will support. 3. If it appears that there is not sufficient support to bring the deal back next week, or the House rejects it again, we can ask for another extension before 12 April but that will involve holding European Parliament elections. 4. If it appears that there is sufficient support and the Speaker permits it, we can bring the deal back next week and if it is approved we can leave on 22 May. Additional reporting by Press Association An estimated 1 million people staged one of the biggest marches in British history to demand a second referendum on Brexit and for the public to have the Final Say on the gathering crisis. The streets of central London were clogged with protesters from across the country, urging politicians faced with the country potentially crashing out of the EU in just three weeks time to hand the decision back to the people. Aerial cameras captured the spectacular scenes of the vast throng winding its way to outside the Houses of Parliament to hear passionate speeches from MPs of all parties. Perhaps the most dramatic picture was the unfurling of an enormous banner with the pre-referendum words of David Davis, the Brexit-supporting Tory MP: If a democracy cannot change, it ceases to be a democracy. Among the speakers were Tom Watson, Labours deputy leader, who called out to Theresa May, saying: Have a look out of the window prime minister. Open your curtains. Switch on your TV. Here are the people. Recommended Final Say referendum is way out of the Brexit maze Some in the crowd cried out Wheres Jeremy Corbyn? the Labour leader, who was later revealed to be campaigning for his party ahead of local elections in Lancashire. Michael Heseltine, the Conservative grandee, used his speech to express contempt for Brexiteers wrapped in a Union Jack who invoke Winston Churchill for their cause. 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 Insisting the wartime prime minister feared isolation, he told the crowd: I look back over 70 years of peace in Europe, 50 years of European partnership ... parliamentary democracies working together with power based on a shared sovereignty far in excess of anything any one of us could achieve individually. The huge numbers put the march on the scale of the 2003 demonstration against the Iraq War long recognised as the UKs largest, when anywhere between 750,000 and 2 million attended. The march came as the beleaguered prime minister fought for her political life, while refusing to guarantee a third meaningful vote on her deal will take place, because another thumping defeat looms. With just 20 days until the first possible exit day imposed by the EU: * The Conservative deputy chair said the huge march did not tell us anything we didnt already know although he acknowledged it was significant and important. * A Tory MP called for a secret ballot of his colleagues to force out the prime minister, while others suggested she would have to resign if there was a further Brexit delay. * Cabinet ministers on both sides of the divide appeared to be preparing to try to oust her if she pivoted to a softer Brexit or if she refused to let the Commons attempt to. * Labour MPs protested they were not sent Ms Mays Friday night letter suggesting the third vote might be pulled which appeared to have been for Tories only. * George Osborne joined those suggesting the emergency stop button of revoking Article 50 might have to be deployed as the petition demanding it soared past 4 million signatures although he preferred a long delay to rethink Brexit. * Senior former civil servants said a Chilcot-style inquiry into the humiliation of Brexit was increasingly inevitable, along the lines of the probe into the Iraq War debacle. At the march, Sadiq Khan, the London mayor, used his address to call for Article 50 to be revoked, saying: The British people didnt vote for the government to gamble on our future, the British people didnt vote for the national nightmare thats been created. MPs from five political parties Labour, Conservatives, Green, Liberal Democrats and the SNP appeared on the stage together, alongside Anna Soubry from The Independent Group. They urged their parliamentary colleagues to back any vote for a second referendum and put country first, as Nicola Sturgeon, the Scottish first minister and SNP leader, claimed the prime minister had pitched parliament against the people. Christian Broughton, the editor of The Independent, told the crowd: By marching together and staying positive, we show there is a more progressive, engaged, collaborative way for politics to work and a way out of the Brexit chaos. The Independent is campaigning for a fresh public vote through its Final Say campaign, with more than 1.1 million people having signed our petition. The Independent asked Downing Street if the prime minister would like to comment on the huge march, but received no response. However, James Cleverly, the Conservatives deputy chair, tweeted: The 2nd referendum march today and the millions of signatures on the revoke A50 petition are significant and important. But neither tells us anything we didnt already know. Millions of people in the UK dont want Brexit, millions do. And 80%+ of MPs were elected to deliver it. In Londons Park Lane, James Lancaster and his band, Brass Against Brexit, stood amid the gathering crowds preparing to march on Parliament Square. For the two-mile walk, the 10-piece group trumpets, trombones, sax planned on playing a selection of New Orleans jazz, classic pop and (but of course) Beethovens Ode To Joy, the European Unions official anthem. Brexit is a national crisis its that serious, the 54-year-old from York said, his giant sousaphone on his back. But that doesnt mean our protests against it cant be a carnival. Were here because we want to make today joyous. We want to show the world this movement is celebratory. It was, perhaps, the perfect articulation of Saturdays Put It To The People march. More than a million people if organisers are to be believed descended on London to request just one thing: to be asked again on Brexit. Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Show all 65 1 /65 Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Hundreds of thousands of people take part in the protest calling for a referendum on the final Brexit deal EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Young marchers sit on the lions at Trafalgar Square in London Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A young marcher speaks into a megaphone Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Anti-Brexit campaigners gather in Parliament Square PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest 800sqm banner of a David Davis quote Led By Donkeys/PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest l EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Norman Cook aka Fat Boy Slim with the Stop Brexit Sound System, Thousands of people flocked around the Stop Brexit Sound system as it wound it's way through crowds. Artists such as Fat Boy Slim, Deadmau5, Gideon and members from Orbital, Desert Storm Sound System, Horse Meat Disco, Secretsundaze and others blasted beats to protest the UK's exit from the EU and the impact Brexit will have on artists and musicians in the UK and in EU countries. Neneh Cherry also made an appearance. The soundsystem took a surprise turn into a side street near the National Gallery where a truck with sound system and DJs including Norman Jay (MBE) awaited. Thousands of pro-EU party people rocked out to house tracks including a remix of Donna Summer's disco classic I Feel Love. People with banners filled out the space as a police helicopter hovered above. Authorities allowed the music to continue for an hour or so before it was switched off. Revellers helped collect rubbish before peacefully moving on Anu Shukla Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A man clibs from a bus as he joins demonstrators Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Scientists for EU march Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A placard 'I will always love EU' during the 'Put it to the People' march EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A group of marchers wear The Independent's Final Say t-shirts Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AFP/Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A group of marchers sit in the road Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A float in the march by Trafalgar Square Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Editor of The Independent Christian Broughton addresses the marchers Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers stand below Nelson's Column Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A young marcher edits his sign Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest People hold up placards and European flags AFP/Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A box of foam hands are handed out Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A banner with British Prime Minister Theresa May and slogan 'Enemy of the People' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Leader of the Liberal Democrats Sir Vince Cable MP takes part Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Thousands of demonstrators take to the streets Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A protester with a banner 'Strong and Stable or just Stubborn?' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers hold up an EU flag Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A marcher holds a familiar sign Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A man with a placard 'We Love EU' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers show The Independent's Final Say t-shirt Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A marcher wears The Independent's Final Say t-shirt Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Open Labour protesters Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A float depicting British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty They came, young and old, Labour and Tory, by train and by plane, from the four corners of the UK. They came bearing balloons and banners, face paints and flags and, above all else, smiles and good humour. Have you ever seen a more polite crowd? asked Silvia Angelotti, an Italian business analyst who has lived in London for 22 years. Believe me, a march of a million people in Italy it is not so calm, not so orderly, I think. Surrounding Ms Angelotti as she walked down Whitehall to where speakers included London mayor Sadiq Khan, SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon and The Independents editor Christian Broughton was a sea of noise and a mile of colour. Or, rather, a mile of blue and yellow. The shades of the EU were everywhere, from teenagers resplendent in streaks of yellow eyeliner to mums (and dads) donning long blue wigs. Think cup final day on Wembley Way, and you have the right sort of vibe. Only here, supporters were asking given the closeness of the first result, given the misinformation they say was spread, and given the ever-unfolding sense of calamity for a chance to rethink and replay. Thats not an unreasonable request, said Sorcha Kirker, an archaeology student at University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) in Scotland. Theresa May has given parliament two votes on this and she wants another so why are the people being denied a second say? That isnt democracy. Ms Kirker herself was speaking after a 28-hour journey to be in London. The 27-year-old lives on Orkney. To get to the capital, she had to leave home at 4.30am on Friday, take a boat to the mainland town of Thurso, travel by train to Inverness, and then, at 9pm, catch the 12-hour overnight bus to London. If youre reading this anytime between 8.30pm on Saturday and 10pm on Sunday, shes still on her way back home again. Am I tired? she asked. Well, I got about two hours sleep on the bus so thats something. You come to something like this and adrenalin takes over anyway. There are 24 of us here from the UHI, and weve all come because this is too important to miss because of something like geography. Its our future. Brexit is a disaster. It takes away so many opportunities from young people that our parents had that cant be fair. She and her group were carrying massive EU flags but placards were largely the order of the day. Indeed, if national referendums could be initiated by the sheer originality of signs being waved alone, its probably fair to say, the Electoral Commission would, right now, already be organising a Final Say vote. They varied from pop cultural references (Frankie Says Remain) to the poetic (Lets stay among the stars), to the somewhat crude: If only Nigels dad had been so keen to pull out, read one. Inventive placards were the order of the day (EPA) Bright yellow stickers featuring the slogan Bollocks to Brexit, meanwhile, were everywhere. Including, by the end of the day, entirely covering the Cabinet Office front door in Whitehall. After one person stuck their sticker there, hundreds more protestors followed suit turning this historic door yellow. If Theresa May really thinks she knows how we feel, she might want to look at her own Cabinet Office entrance next time she passes, said Rob Hollinger, as he added another circular sticker to the mass. She says she speaks for the British public. She doesnt speak for anyone here. It was a sentiment shared by 14-year-old Jacob Henry. I got off my Xbox to be here, his placard told the world. The youngster, from Milton Keynes, was there with his parents and 16-year-old sister Alice. I dont know if any of this will make a difference, his dad Leroi, a 49-year-old academic, said. But maybe the momentum is starting to move in favour of a second vote. I feel the country is starting to shift but I dont know if it will be too late. But I just think, as a family, we felt we had to try to do something. We had to be able to say in future we gave this a shot. It was a hopefulness and positivity that infused the spirit of the whole procession. With a petition asking for Article 50 to be revoked topping 4 million signatures even as the march started, many people felt, now more than ever, the tide of opportunity was turning towards them. Certainly Alice Joinel hoped so. She was the mother of possibly the youngest march participant of all. Carried in a papoose was nine-week-old Anouk. Hows she found it? said Alice, who works in publishing in London. Shes actually slept through most of it. Woke up for the odd feed, then gone back to sleep again. She seems pretty unfazed. The 32-year-old came because she felt it was important for the little ones future. Leaving the European Union is going to make her future so much harder and with so fewer opportunities, she said. And as a parent, thats unbearable. So we had to come. Her dad my partner is actually French, so you might say she wouldnt even be here without the EU thats how important it is to us. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events As the day came to a close anti-Brexit chants still filling the twilight a band could be heard finishing off in Trafalgar Square: Brass Against Brexit. How did march go for the group? Brilliant, said James again. A few of us in this band play Glastonbury every year and weve played the Rio carnival and, of course, its impossible to compare. But this was special: just people getting into it, waving their flags, giving us thumbs up. It felt like we were a part of history. Theresa Mays address to the nation from Downing Street will rank in history as an affront to parliamentary democracy, the former Conservative deputy prime minister Michael Heseltine has said. In a scathing assessment of the prime ministers decision to blame MPs for the current political crisis over Brexit, Lord Heseltine said he was appalled by her speech on Wednesday. Addressing thousands of activists gathered in Parliament Square for the Put It To The People march, he said Ms May bears a heavy responsibility for our present crisis as the deadlock over the UKs exit from the EU shows no sign of abating. Organised by the Peoples Vote in collaboration with The Independent, the demonstration demanded Brexit be put back to the British people in a fresh referendum. Defending parliament ahead of a crucial vote on Ms Mays deal next week and after EU leaders agreed a short extension to Article 50 Lord Heseltine said: Never forget that this place is the custodian of our freedoms. Never forget the intolerance and worse that comes from other forms of government. Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Show all 65 1 /65 Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Hundreds of thousands of people take part in the protest calling for a referendum on the final Brexit deal EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Young marchers sit on the lions at Trafalgar Square in London Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A young marcher speaks into a megaphone Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Anti-Brexit campaigners gather in Parliament Square PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest 800sqm banner of a David Davis quote Led By Donkeys/PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest l EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Norman Cook aka Fat Boy Slim with the Stop Brexit Sound System, Thousands of people flocked around the Stop Brexit Sound system as it wound it's way through crowds. Artists such as Fat Boy Slim, Deadmau5, Gideon and members from Orbital, Desert Storm Sound System, Horse Meat Disco, Secretsundaze and others blasted beats to protest the UK's exit from the EU and the impact Brexit will have on artists and musicians in the UK and in EU countries. Neneh Cherry also made an appearance. The soundsystem took a surprise turn into a side street near the National Gallery where a truck with sound system and DJs including Norman Jay (MBE) awaited. Thousands of pro-EU party people rocked out to house tracks including a remix of Donna Summer's disco classic I Feel Love. People with banners filled out the space as a police helicopter hovered above. Authorities allowed the music to continue for an hour or so before it was switched off. Revellers helped collect rubbish before peacefully moving on Anu Shukla Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A man clibs from a bus as he joins demonstrators Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Scientists for EU march Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A placard 'I will always love EU' during the 'Put it to the People' march EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A group of marchers wear The Independent's Final Say t-shirts Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AFP/Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A group of marchers sit in the road Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A float in the march by Trafalgar Square Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Editor of The Independent Christian Broughton addresses the marchers Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers stand below Nelson's Column Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A young marcher edits his sign Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest People hold up placards and European flags AFP/Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A box of foam hands are handed out Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A banner with British Prime Minister Theresa May and slogan 'Enemy of the People' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Leader of the Liberal Democrats Sir Vince Cable MP takes part Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Thousands of demonstrators take to the streets Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A protester with a banner 'Strong and Stable or just Stubborn?' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers hold up an EU flag Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A marcher holds a familiar sign Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A man with a placard 'We Love EU' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers show The Independent's Final Say t-shirt Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A marcher wears The Independent's Final Say t-shirt Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Open Labour protesters Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A float depicting British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Any deal that parliament can now agree will inevitably be the lowest common denominator of reluctant compromise. This is no way to chart a nations future. One way or another the people must decide; they must be free to vote to remain. He said: I was appalled by her speech from Downing Street on Wednesday evening. It will rank in history as an affront to parliamentary democracy. Generals who lose wars blame the troops. Managers who break their companies blame the workers. Now we can add prime ministers who lose elections blame their MPs. I may be naive. But if something is wrong, I look first for the person in charge. Concluding his speech in central London, Lord Heseltine added: We are here today on the right side of history. In a shrinking world of global terrorism, international tax avoidance, millisecond communication, giant corporations, superpowers, mass migration, climate change and a host of other global threats our duty is to build on our achievements, to maintain our access to the corridors of world power, to keep our place on the stages of the world. We can debate the motives and obligations of those in public life. What cannot be in doubt is our responsibility to our young generations to pass on to them a country richer, more powerful, safer than that we ourselves inherited. Our partnership with Europe is that destiny. Walk tall. Keep the faith. Go back to your villages, your towns and your cities. Tell them you were here. Here, In parliament square. Outside the buildings that inspire parliamentary democracy. Fighting for our tomorrow. In peace. Secure. The bitterness and bloodshed of Europes past buried with its history. The woman who started a petition to halt the Brexit process says she has received multiple telephoned death threats and has deleted her Facebook account after receiving a torrent of abuse online. Margaret Anne Georgiadou started a petition on the UK parliaments website in late February, calling for Article 50 to be revoked and for the UK to remain in the EU. It rapidly gained signatures this week after Theresa May appealed to the country and MPs to back her deal. On Saturday the petition reached over 4.16 million signatures. It has the highest rate of sign-ups on record, according to the official petitions committee. In the past 10 hours [I] have had three death threats over the phone, my [Facebook] account has been hacked and had a torrent of abuse on Facebook, Ms Georgiadou said on Saturday morning. Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Show all 65 1 /65 Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Hundreds of thousands of people take part in the protest calling for a referendum on the final Brexit deal EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Young marchers sit on the lions at Trafalgar Square in London Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A young marcher speaks into a megaphone Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Anti-Brexit campaigners gather in Parliament Square PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest 800sqm banner of a David Davis quote Led By Donkeys/PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest l EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Norman Cook aka Fat Boy Slim with the Stop Brexit Sound System, Thousands of people flocked around the Stop Brexit Sound system as it wound it's way through crowds. Artists such as Fat Boy Slim, Deadmau5, Gideon and members from Orbital, Desert Storm Sound System, Horse Meat Disco, Secretsundaze and others blasted beats to protest the UK's exit from the EU and the impact Brexit will have on artists and musicians in the UK and in EU countries. Neneh Cherry also made an appearance. The soundsystem took a surprise turn into a side street near the National Gallery where a truck with sound system and DJs including Norman Jay (MBE) awaited. Thousands of pro-EU party people rocked out to house tracks including a remix of Donna Summer's disco classic I Feel Love. People with banners filled out the space as a police helicopter hovered above. Authorities allowed the music to continue for an hour or so before it was switched off. Revellers helped collect rubbish before peacefully moving on Anu Shukla Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A man clibs from a bus as he joins demonstrators Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Scientists for EU march Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A placard 'I will always love EU' during the 'Put it to the People' march EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A group of marchers wear The Independent's Final Say t-shirts Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AFP/Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A group of marchers sit in the road Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A float in the march by Trafalgar Square Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Editor of The Independent Christian Broughton addresses the marchers Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers stand below Nelson's Column Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A young marcher edits his sign Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest People hold up placards and European flags AFP/Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A box of foam hands are handed out Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A banner with British Prime Minister Theresa May and slogan 'Enemy of the People' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Leader of the Liberal Democrats Sir Vince Cable MP takes part Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Thousands of demonstrators take to the streets Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A protester with a banner 'Strong and Stable or just Stubborn?' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers hold up an EU flag Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A marcher holds a familiar sign Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A man with a placard 'We Love EU' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers show The Independent's Final Say t-shirt Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A marcher wears The Independent's Final Say t-shirt Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Open Labour protesters Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A float depicting British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Who wants Brexit so much that they are prepared to kill for it? The 77-year-old added that she was currently in Cyprus and had deleted her Facebook account following the abuse. She also said she was unable to attend an anti-Brexit march in London on Saturday, despite being invited. Organisers of the Put It To The People march estimated that a million people had marched through the capital, making the demonstration one of the biggest ever protests in the UK. If the estimate is accurate the march will match the size of the anti-Iraq War protest in 2003, when around a million protesters marched through London. Please sing March on, march on/With hope in your hearts/ And youll never be alone for me at the March! Ms Georgiadou said to protesters in a post on her Twitter account. At one point this week nearly 2,000 people were signing Ms Georgiadous petition every minute. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Signatures continued to be added even after the threat of a no-deal exit on 29 March was removed when EU leaders agreed Brexit could be delayed. Although conspiracy theories have begun circulating about the petition, the House of Commons petitions committee clarified that 96 per cent of the signatures are listed as from the UK. They added that overseas signatures were valid, since anyone who is a UK resident or a British citizen can sign a petition. This includes British citizens living overseas. The petition is now the most popular one to ever be submitted to parliament. Food exports face being turned away from the EU if there is a no-deal Brexit because the government told firms to attach the wrong proof that they are fit to eat. Producers have condemned the confusion and chaos surrounding compulsory health and identification marks after official advice was changed just weeks before departure day. It means food products of animal origin (POAO) are likely to be rejected by the EU if they are stamped UK, rather than GB or United Kingdom. The bar will be imposed if the UK crashes out of the EU without a deal, on either 12 April or 22 May the new danger dates imposed by the EU but could also be a requirement even if Theresa Mays deal, with a 21-month transition period, is eventually passed. Ian Wright, chief executive of the Food and Drink Federation, said: This is going to cause confusion and chaos both for producers and shoppers. At very late notice, we must make a change that will cost businesses a huge amount of money and that we may not be able to sort out in the time available. Mr Wright also warned that, even if packaging can be changed, much of it was simply too small to carry the description United Kingdom. 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 Furthermore, GB is not a recognised description of a country of origin and may have ramifications for producers in Northern Ireland, he added. The fears were echoed by the British Poultry Council, which warned of multiple consequences from not having the UK mark, or a single mark. We dont know where products are going to be exported and if there are consolidated products from several slaughter houses, with different marks, there could be problems at border inspections, said Shraddha Kaul, its public affairs manager. The problem has blown up because, after the UK leaves the EU, products cannot carry the EC mark as proof of production in an approved establishment and fit for human consumption. Last year, producers were told to prepare with packaging stamped UK but the European Commission then ruled that would not be acceptable. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) only changed its advice in mid-February, in instructions sent to thousands of firms making meat, egg and milk products. It reads: For businesses who export POAO to the EU, the health and ID marks must carry either: the official two-digit ISO Code GB or the full country name in capital letters UNITED KINGDOM. If there a crash-out Brexit, the revised marks would apply to all POAO exported to the EU immediately from the date of the UKs exit from the EU (29 March 2019). That date has now been revised. The FSA also said it could only aim to agree a transition period, adding: The point at which the new marks will come into effect will depend on the nature of the UKs exit from the EU. Mr Wright added: If producers trading with the EU dont have the appropriate health mark, those products may have to come back to the UK and be sold at a loss, or they may end up as food waste. The advice came less than 6 weeks before it was potentially coming into effect but the turnaround time for packaging is three months. To add to the potential confusion, exports to non-EU countries must be stamped UK, unless the receiving country has agreed to the new descriptions. Within the UK, however, an emergency regulation rushed through would allow continued use of the EC identification mark until the end of transition, in December 2020. An FSA spokesperson said: Following discussions with the European Commission it was indicated that UK proposals would not meet EU third-country legal requirements. The FSA has provided industry with clear guidance as to what forms of the health and identification marks are applicable to the UK, EU and non-EU markets. An online petition calling on the government to revoke Article 50 and cancel Brexit has attracted nearly five million signatures. The petition, started in late February, has the highest rate of sign-ups on record, according to the official Petitions Committee. By the early hours of Sunday morning more than 4,750,000 people had signed. The official website has crashed numerous time since the petition leapt in popularity on Wednesday following Theresa Mays appeal to the British people to support her as she demanded MPs back her deal. Signatures continued to be added even after the threat of a no-deal exit on 29 March was removed when EU leaders agreed Brexit could be delayed. Asked about the growing number of signatories on Thursday, Ms May said she did not believe in halting the deadline after the EU offered a delay plan. "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Show all 15 1 /15 "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage waves from the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus on the march from Sunderland to London Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers pass a sign to "Cuckoo Land" in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher holds up a blue passport as the march passes Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses for a photo in a pub in Hartlepool Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage pays his respects to Tommy, the statue of a First World War soldier in Seaham, County Durham Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march An anti-Brexit van has been graffitied in Sunderland on the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher carries a Union flag reading "Storm Brexit" in Sunderland Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A couple push a Save Our Sovereignty trolley through a tunnel in Easington, County Durham during the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage enjoys a pint with fellow marchers in Hartlepool Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A pro-European counter-marcher lets off a smoke grenade with the colours of the EU flag Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage leads the march in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage takes part in the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses on the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus in Seaham Getty As the petition attracted attention, conspiracy theories arose suggesting that a small proportion of signatures from addresses listed as overseas meant that the petition had been hijacked by bots . But in a tweet, the House of Commons petitions committee clarified that 96 per cent of the signatures are listed as from the UK. They added that overseas signatures were valid, since anyone who is a UK resident or a British citizen can sign a petition. This includes British citizens living overseas. Analysis by software firm Tableau of the 16,000 petitions running on the government website showed the revoke Article 50 petition had more than three times as many signatures as all the pro-Brexit petitions combined. After the number of signatures passed one million, the petitions committee, a cross-party group of MPs appointed to examine petitions to parliament, said the rate of signing was the highest its website had ever had to deal with. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Organiser Margaret Anne Georgiadou wrote: The government repeatedly claims exiting the EU is the will of the people. We need to put a stop to this claim by proving the strength of public support now for remaining in the EU. A Peoples Vote may not happen so vote now. An online petition calling on the government to revoke Article 50 and cancel Brexit has become the most popular petition ever submitted to the Parliament website. The petition, started in late February, reached over 4.16 million signatures on Saturday and has the highest rate of sign-ups on record, according to the official Petitions Committee. The second most popular is a 2016 petition calling for a second EU referendum if the Remain or Leave vote was less than 60 per cent, which gathered just over 4.15 million signatures. In third place is a petition to prevent Donald Trump from making a state visit to the UK, with nearly 1.9 million signatures. By contrast, the most popular pro-Brexit petition on the Parliament website which calls on the government to leave the EU without a deal in March 2019 had received almost 460,000 signatures by Saturday morning. "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Show all 15 1 /15 "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage waves from the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus on the march from Sunderland to London Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers pass a sign to "Cuckoo Land" in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher holds up a blue passport as the march passes Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses for a photo in a pub in Hartlepool Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage pays his respects to Tommy, the statue of a First World War soldier in Seaham, County Durham Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march An anti-Brexit van has been graffitied in Sunderland on the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher carries a Union flag reading "Storm Brexit" in Sunderland Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A couple push a Save Our Sovereignty trolley through a tunnel in Easington, County Durham during the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage enjoys a pint with fellow marchers in Hartlepool Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A pro-European counter-marcher lets off a smoke grenade with the colours of the EU flag Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage leads the march in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage takes part in the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses on the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus in Seaham Getty The petition to revoke Article 50 has crashed several times since the petition leapt in popularity on Wednesday following Theresa Mays appeal to the British people to support her as she demanded MPs back her deal. At one point nearly 2,000 people were signing up every minute. And signatures continued to be added even after the threat of a no-deal exit on 29 March was removed when EU leaders agreed Brexit could be delayed. The constituencies with the highest number of sign-ups are Bristol West, Hornsey and Wood Green in London and Brighton Pavilion. A number of MPs and celebrities have publicly backing the appeal, including Jennifer Saunders, Hugh Grant and Brian Cox. When asked about the growing number of signatories on Thursday, Ms May said she did not believe in halting the deadline after the EU offered a delay plan. Recommended The most popular political petitions in UK history As the petition attracted attention, conspiracy theories arose suggesting that a small proportion of signatures from addresses listed as overseas meant that the petition had been hijacked by bots. But in a tweet, the House of Commons petitions committee clarified that 96 per cent of the signatures are listed as from the UK. They added that overseas signatures were valid, since anyone who is a UK resident or a British citizen can sign a petition. This includes British citizens living overseas. Analysis by software firm Tableau of the 16,000 petitions running on the government website showed the revoke Article 50 petition had more than three times as many signatures as all the pro-Brexit petitions combined. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Organiser Margaret Anne Georgiadou wrote: The government repeatedly claims exiting the EU is the will of the people. We need to put a stop to this claim by proving the strength of public support now for remaining in the EU. A Peoples Vote may not happen so vote now. She added: I do not believe that we should be revoking Article 50. When the Peoples Vote campaign was launched less than a year ago, it had the support of about 25 MPs. As the Commons prepares for the Brexit endgame and a series of crucial votes next week, a Final Say referendum is at the heart of the debate. It now has the backing of an estimated 250-280 MPs, giving it a real chance of becoming the way out of the Brexit maze. The public appetite for a fresh vote was illustrated when The Independent launched its Final Say campaign in July. A petition with more than one million signatures was handed in at Downing Street in December. The first Peoples Vote march in London in October attracted an estimated 670,000 people. Even pro-Brexit newspapers which had previously ignored the referendum movement were forced to take it seriously. These campaigns helped to galvanise support at Westminster, notably inside Labour. After a heated internal debate, the partys annual conference in September agreed that a public vote should be on the table if Jeremy Corbyn failed to secure his top priority of a general election. Mr Corbyn has sent mixed signals about a referendum since. His close allies fear it would harm Labours prospects in Leave-voting areas in the north and midlands. But Labours grassroots members and many of its MPs back a Final Say vote. Mr Corbyn is edging closer to supporting an amendment by the Labour backbenchers Peter Kyle and Phil Wilson, which would make approval of Theresa Mays deal contingent on a referendum. It is likely to be voted on next week. Although supporters concede it might be 40 votes short of a majority for now, they insist it can still become the last option standing if Ms Mays deal and alternative options are all voted down (which many MPs think a real possibility). Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Show all 65 1 /65 Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Hundreds of thousands of people take part in the protest calling for a referendum on the final Brexit deal EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Young marchers sit on the lions at Trafalgar Square in London Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A young marcher speaks into a megaphone Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Anti-Brexit campaigners gather in Parliament Square PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest 800sqm banner of a David Davis quote Led By Donkeys/PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest l EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Norman Cook aka Fat Boy Slim with the Stop Brexit Sound System, Thousands of people flocked around the Stop Brexit Sound system as it wound it's way through crowds. Artists such as Fat Boy Slim, Deadmau5, Gideon and members from Orbital, Desert Storm Sound System, Horse Meat Disco, Secretsundaze and others blasted beats to protest the UK's exit from the EU and the impact Brexit will have on artists and musicians in the UK and in EU countries. Neneh Cherry also made an appearance. The soundsystem took a surprise turn into a side street near the National Gallery where a truck with sound system and DJs including Norman Jay (MBE) awaited. Thousands of pro-EU party people rocked out to house tracks including a remix of Donna Summer's disco classic I Feel Love. People with banners filled out the space as a police helicopter hovered above. Authorities allowed the music to continue for an hour or so before it was switched off. Revellers helped collect rubbish before peacefully moving on Anu Shukla Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A man clibs from a bus as he joins demonstrators Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Scientists for EU march Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A placard 'I will always love EU' during the 'Put it to the People' march EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A group of marchers wear The Independent's Final Say t-shirts Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AFP/Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A group of marchers sit in the road Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A float in the march by Trafalgar Square Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Editor of The Independent Christian Broughton addresses the marchers Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers stand below Nelson's Column Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A young marcher edits his sign Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest People hold up placards and European flags AFP/Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A box of foam hands are handed out Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A banner with British Prime Minister Theresa May and slogan 'Enemy of the People' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Leader of the Liberal Democrats Sir Vince Cable MP takes part Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Thousands of demonstrators take to the streets Getty Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A protester with a banner 'Strong and Stable or just Stubborn?' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers hold up an EU flag Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A marcher holds a familiar sign Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A man with a placard 'We Love EU' EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Marchers show The Independent's Final Say t-shirt Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest AP Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A marcher wears The Independent's Final Say t-shirt Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Open Labour protesters Angela Christofilou/The Independent Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest A float depicting British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Reuters Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest PA Best pictures from the Put It To The People protest Getty Ms May has repeatedly spelt out her strong opposition to a referendum. She claims the idea has already been voted on, but this is misleading: more than 200 MPs abstained when Sarah Wollaston, the Independent Group MP, proposed a referendum, and was defeated by 334 votes to 85 this month. There are signs that Ms May is preparing to include a referendum in the indicative Commons votes expected next week. The Kyle-Wilson amendment probably offers campaigners their best shot. The level of support for a referendum in opinion polls depends on the question and at least 12 different ones have been asked. People are less likely to favour a second referendum if they suspect it is a device to overturn the 2016 one. But they are more supportive of a public vote on Ms Mays deal. A YouGov survey this month for the Peoples Vote campaign found that, by 56 per cent to 44 per cent, people want a new public vote on Britains future relationship with the EU to settle the issue (dont knows excluded). A poll of polls for NatCen by Sir John Curtice, professor of politics at Strathclyde University, suggests that if another referendum were held now, Remain would win 53 per cent and Leave 47 per cent of the votes. Sir John said: Voters are less likely to endorse the idea if asked whether there should be another referendum than if they are asked whether the public should be able to vote. The form of the referendum matters; Leave voters are, unsurprisingly, rather warmer to the idea of a referendum in which the choice is between whatever deal the government has negotiated and no deal than they are towards one where the choice is between a deal and remaining in the EU. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events There are real signs that voters want to think again in the light of the facts about what Brexit really does mean which have emerged since 2016. According to YouGov, the number of people who believe with hindsight the decision to leave the EU was wrong, has risen from 48 per cent in 2016 to 55 per cent today. It is another strong argument for giving the public the Final Say. Theresa May is rapidly running out of time and options on Brexit. The EUs latest demands, announced on Thursday, are clear: either she secures MPs approval for her exit deal next week, or the UK must come up with an alternative way forward if it is to avoid crashing out of the bloc on 12 April. The prime minister is likely to try to hold a third vote on her proposed agreement early next week but government sources are privately pessimistic about the prospect of MPs suddenly approving a deal they have already comprehensively rejected twice. Robinsonleon tu uz nie je! Preco tu uz @robinsonleon nie je? Ludia prichadzaju a odchadzaju, konta sa registruju a zanikaju. Obcas sa niekto narodi a obcas niekto zomrie. S covidom ci bez, to je jedno. Nic netrva vecne. Len pan Boh je vecny a mozno BIRDZ ciastocne... To ze tu robinsonleon uz nie je, je vlastne takym novym normalom. Muzeme o tom vest spory, muzeme s tim nesouhlasit, ale to je asi tak vsechno, co s tim muzeme udelat... Mozne priciny vzniknutej situacie Mozne priciny vzniknutej situacie a) konto @robinsonleon bolo zrusene samotnym pouzivatelom. Cize sam si zrusil/zmazal ucet na BIRDZ. Napriklad ma vela ucenia v skole, alebo si mysli, ze je na BIRDZ prilis stary a nasiel nejaky seniorsky web, alebo ma prilis vela kamaratov a uz dalsich nepotrebuje. Inak poznas Pravdu? b) konto @robinsonleon bolo zablokovane nasimi administratormi. Cize bol zablokovany, lebo urazal ludi, porusoval podmienky pouzivania portalu, alebo zakony SR alebo sa pochvalil fotografiou svojho prirodzenia. c) konto @robinsonleon uniesli mimozemstania. Sice malo pravdepodobna moznost, ale treba s tym pocitat. Clovek nikdy nevie, co cakat od mimozemstanov. Ono je vlastne jedno, ktora moznost je spravna. Podstatne je, ze sa @robinsonleon uz nevrati... Nigel Farage was mocked by anti-Brexit campaigners on Saturday after his speech was interrupted by footage of him endorsing Roy Moore, a failed and highly controversial US Senate candidate. The former UKIP leader was addressing pro-Brexit demonstrators at the March to Leave, which will see around 50 protesters walk from Sunderland to central London in 14 days. The so-called Brexit betrayal march began on 16 March and protesters have been met throughout their route by Led by Donkeys, an anti-Brexit group determined to expose what they describe as Mr Farages hypocrisy. We want to accompany this march with two advertising vans for the whole route, Led By Donkeys announced in a fundraising campaign set up earlier this month. These digital billboards will be everywhere the marchers go, reminding them of the lies and hypocrisy of Nigel Farage. "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Show all 15 1 /15 "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage waves from the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus on the march from Sunderland to London Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers pass a sign to "Cuckoo Land" in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher holds up a blue passport as the march passes Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses for a photo in a pub in Hartlepool Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage pays his respects to Tommy, the statue of a First World War soldier in Seaham, County Durham Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march An anti-Brexit van has been graffitied in Sunderland on the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher carries a Union flag reading "Storm Brexit" in Sunderland Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A couple push a Save Our Sovereignty trolley through a tunnel in Easington, County Durham during the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage enjoys a pint with fellow marchers in Hartlepool Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A pro-European counter-marcher lets off a smoke grenade with the colours of the EU flag Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage leads the march in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage takes part in the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses on the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus in Seaham Getty The group raised over 30,000 in four days to fund its protest campaign. When Mr Farage addressed pro-Brexit marchers on Saturday morning, the campaigners played footage of the former UKIP leader endorsing Roy Moore. Mr Moore, a former US judge, became the first Republican to lose a Senate race in Alabama for more than 20 years last year. Multiple women have accused him of sexually assaulting them while they were teenagers. Mr Moore denies the allegations. Mr Farage campaigned for the controversial former judge in September 2017, before the accusations emerged. At a rally outside of the city of Mobile in September 2017, the Brexit campaigner talked about how electing Mr Moore would send a message to the political establishment and the liberal media. The former UKIP leader later voiced doubts over the timing of the accusations against Mr Moore while speaking to The Independent. I have to say how, for someone who has been in public life, [these issues] have not been raised before, he said in November 2017. He has been in the public life a long time and he has been outspoken in his views and in his positions. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Led By Donkeys have also placed billboards taking aim at Mr Farage on the March to Leave route. They are also playing clips of the anti-elitist politician admitting to using a private jet. Mr Farages March to Leave continues. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of protesters are attending an anti-Brexit march in central London on Saturday. Campaigners have been prosecuted for inconsiderate driving while trying to bring roads to a standstill as part of a pro-Brexit protest. The demonstrations aimed to ensure the UK leaves the European Union on 29 March by causing gridlock on motorways and A roads using a convoy of slow-moving vehicles, organisers said. The protesters were aiming to target between 30 and 40 locations over the weekend, including the M25, M6 and M1. Devon and Cornwall Police said it had stopped the convoys on the A30 and M5 and prosecuted the two lead drivers of both convoys for careless and inconsiderate driving. The force said it had spoken to organisers of both protests beforehand and told them they were to ensure other motorists could pass them and not drop down to unsafe speeds. "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Show all 15 1 /15 "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage waves from the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus on the march from Sunderland to London Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers pass a sign to "Cuckoo Land" in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher holds up a blue passport as the march passes Grangetown, Tyne and Wear Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses for a photo in a pub in Hartlepool Reuters "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage pays his respects to Tommy, the statue of a First World War soldier in Seaham, County Durham Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march An anti-Brexit van has been graffitied in Sunderland on the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A marcher carries a Union flag reading "Storm Brexit" in Sunderland Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A couple push a Save Our Sovereignty trolley through a tunnel in Easington, County Durham during the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage enjoys a pint with fellow marchers in Hartlepool Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march A pro-European counter-marcher lets off a smoke grenade with the colours of the EU flag Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage leads the march in Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Marchers plod on near Easington Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage takes part in the Brexit Betrayal march Getty "Leave means leave" - Brexit Betrayal march Nigel Farage poses on the top deck of the Brexit Betrayal bus in Seaham Getty Inspector Simon Jenkinson said that the force was "happy to facilitate" the protests as long as they did not bring the roads to a standstill. But he added that the campaigners had blocked both lanes of the A30 towards Cornwall and at least two lanes of the M5 northbound while travelling at speeds as low as 20mph on the motorway. "We took the decision for the front two vehicles to be pulled over and reported for the driving offence of careless and inconsiderate driving," he said. "They presented a risk to the road-using community. The information I have had was there were speeds as low as 20mph (on the M5). That presents a significant risk on a very busy arterial road." The RAC advises that, while most motorways in the UK do not have an official minimum speed limit, "travelling too slowly can be considered dangerous" and might attract attention from police. Highways England tweeted: "There have been a few issues but nothing of any major impact and at present everything is running as usual." Organiser Ian Charlesworth had said the protests could cause "serious gridlock" and believes MPs and the Home Office "will be looking at it", but added he does not know how effective the protests will be. "The ultimate aim is to make sure come hell or high water that Britain leaves on March 29," the 55-year-old said. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The protests have been organised through social media, with Mr Charlesworth's Facebook group containing more than 21,000 members. After this weekend's protests he said a larger "national event" is planned in London on March 29, should their demands not be met, which will coincide with the pro-Brexit March To Leave demonstration in Parliament Square. The Independent is however, supporting the Put it to the People march in London today. Press Association A suicide bombing and gun attack on an official building in the Somalian capital has left nine dead, including a government minister. The deadly assault has been claimed by the Islamist terrorist group al-Shabaab. Government security forces are still engaged in a fierce firefight with gunmen inside the building in the capital Mogadishu, which has offices for both the labour ministry and works ministry, a police captain said. Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, Somalias deputy minister of labour and social affairs, was killed in his ground-floor office shortly after the terrorists stormed the building. So far eight other people are confirmed to have died in the attack, but the death is expected to rise. At least 20 people have also been injured. Somalian ministers killed in hotel bomb attack Show all 2 1 /2 Somalian ministers killed in hotel bomb attack Somalian ministers killed in hotel bomb attack 271325.bin EPA Somalian ministers killed in hotel bomb attack 271326.bin EPA Scores of civil servants remain trapped inside the office block, which is billowing with white smoke according to witnesses. Al-Shabaab, which is allied with al-Qaeda and seeks to create an Islamic state in Somalia, said its fighters launched todays attack. A car packed with explosives was driven into the building before detonating, which then allowed a second group of gunmen to storm inside. Although al-Shabaab was forced out of Mogadishu in 2011 and no longer controls any significant territory, it continues to carry out deadly attacks. Car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia leaves several dead and wounded In February, 24 people were killed when the terrorist group exploded two car bombs in a popular leisure district of the capital. A large force of African Union peacekeepers is stationed in Somalia to help the countrys fragile government keep al-Shabaab at bay and there are also hundreds of American troops. The US also regularly carries out airstrikes against al-Shabaab in an effort to kill the groups fighters and make it harder for them to threaten the Somalian authorities. According to the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, in 2018 the US launched 45 air and drone strikes against the terrorist group which killed about 330 people. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Earlier this week Amnesty International accused the US military of committing war crimes by killing large numbers of civilians in their air strike campaign in Somalia. But American military leaders denied they had killed or wounded a single civilian in the 110 air strikes carried out since June 2017. Two American children who had not been vaccinated by their parents have fallen ill with measles in Costa Rica, in the first case to originate in the country for 13 years. The Ministry of Health announced that it tested four American children between the ages of three and 10, who displayed symptoms of the disease after being treated at a clinic in the Cobano region. Two of them tested positive. The parents, who are American citizens with five more children, never vaccinated their kids for measles. The case is the first time an individual contracted the measles virus while residing in Costa Rica since 2006. On Thursday, Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (PANI), Costa Ricas the child welfare agency, placed the family of 11 under tight quarantine in Cabuya de Cobano to prevent them from spreading the virus. The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Show all 7 1 /7 The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Charlie Sheen Sheen fought a legal battle against ex-wife Denise Richards to try and block her from vaccinating their children. Richards of course won and Sheen was reportedly so bitter that he paid the paediatrician bill entirely in nickels Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Gwyneth Paltrow Paltrow's "health and wellness" company Goop hosted a notorious anti-vaccine speaker at their 2018 Goop Summit Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Rob Schneider Schneider demanded the freedom to decline vaccination Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Jenny McCarthy McCarthy has claimed that "people are dying from vaccinations", believes that her son caught autism from a vaccine and has pushed her opinions on the topic publicly for many years AFP/Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Bill Maher Maher has long spoken against vaccines sating on Larry King live that "a flu shot is the worst thing you can do." His stance appears to stem from a distrust of government AFP/Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Alicia Silverstone In Silverstone's book The Kind Mama, she wrote that "there is increasing anecdotal evidence from doctors who have gotten distressed phone calls from parents claiming their child was never the same after receiving a vaccine." Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Andrew Wakefield Godfather of the anti-vax movement, disgraced doctor Andrew Wakefield famously published a report in the medical journal Lancet claiming a link between the MMR vaccine and autism in 1998. The Lancet retracted the report in 2010 and Wakefield was struck off the medical register PA The children were treated at the CCSS (Social Security) Cobano Clinic, have had a fever since 15 March and skin breakouts since the 18th, the Health Ministry said in a statement. It is suspected that the children contracted measles from an American woman who visited the family before leaving the island on 12 March. Costa Rican officials said national surveillance protocol would be used to determine if additional actions need to be taken to prevent the spread of the virus. There will not be an epidemic of measles in our country, Daniel Salas Peraza, the minister of health, told Tico Times. But obviously, we dont want any child to suffer from measles or face the complications measles can cause. The Health Ministry believes there is no relationship between the four suspected cases and the French family that reintroduced measles to Costa Rica last month. Those cases, Costa Ricas first since 2014, also involved an unvaccinated child. It is investigating whether the infected American children came in contact with any other individuals. They have not attended school in Costa Rica. Patricia Vega, PANI executive president, said the child welfare agency has the authority to force vaccination on the children if they believe the childrens rights to health and education are at risk. We have already pronounced on our power to force the children to be vaccinated. In this case, what we ordered was that the local office initiate a special protection process, which means that the PANI will visit the family to assess if there are any violation of the rights of the children; in this case, health and education, Ms Vega told Q Costa Rica. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, measles is an airborne viral infection that is highly contagious. It is spread when an infected person sneezes or coughs and early symptoms include a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes before a rash breaks out. The mother of an unarmed black teenager fatally shot by a white police officer as he fled a traffic stop has expressed her anger and devastation over a jurys decision to acquit the officer. Former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld was charged with homicide for shooting Antwon Rose II last June in one of the many high-profile killings of black people by white police officers. The deadly confrontation, captured on video, led to weeks of unrest and angry protests in the Pittsburgh last year, including a late-night march that shut down a major motorway. Roses father pleaded for peace on Saturday after the verdict sparked protests on the streets of Pittsburgh. Police put officers on 12-hour shifts until further notice as hundreds of people gathered at an intersection named Freedom Corner in the Hill District neighbourhood, the historic centre of black cultural life in Pittsburgh. One man held a sign with the names of black men killed by police around the US. 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 mostly white crowd then marched through downtown Pittsburgh and other city neighbourhoods, periodically blocking streets as they chanted: Who did this? Police did this! The protest soon moved onto the University of Pittsburgh campus. Police reported no immediate arrests or injuries. Its very painful to see what happened, to sit there and deal with it, Roses father, Antwon Rose Sr, told the crowd. I just dont want it to happen to our city no more. Afterwards, he told reporters: I want peace, period, all the way around. ... Just because there was violence doesnt mean that we counter that with violence. On Friday, a panel of seven men and five women, including three black jurors, reached their verdict after less than four hours of deliberations. Reacting to the verdict, Roses mother, Michelle Kenney, said of Mr Rosfeld: I hope that man never sleeps at night. I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none. Rose,17, had been riding in the front seat of an unlicensed cab when Zaijuan Hester, in the back, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street. A few minutes later Mr Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot Rose in the back, arm, and the side of the face as he ran away. He told the court he thought Rose or another suspect had a gun pointed at him. Neither teen was holding one when Mr Rosfeld opened fire, though two semi-automatic handguns were later found in the car. Former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld (AP) Antwons familys lawyer had pushed for a murder conviction, saying it had been pretty obvious the teenager posed no threat to the police officer, who had only been sworn in to the police department hours prior to the fatal shooting. Fred Rabner told the jury: Make no mistake, there is nothing reasonable or appropriate about the manner Officer Rosfeld took Antwons life. Defence lawyer Patrick Thomassey told reporters Mr Rosfeld was a good man and the case had nothing to do with the kids colour. Prosecutors claimed the new recruit gave inconsistent statements about the shooting, including whether he thought Rose was armed. Family members of Antwon Rose II embrace as they listen to speakers during a protest calling for justice for the 17-year-old (Justin Merriman/Getty Images) During the four-day trial witness John Leach told the jury he heard Mr Rosfeld crying and hyperventilating after the shooting and repeatedly saying: I dont know why I shot him. I dont know why I fired. However, a defence expert testified Mr Rosfeld was justified in using lethal force to protect himself and the community if he thought a suspect had just been involved in a shooting. In his closing argument assistant district attorney Jonathan Fodi declared Mr Rosfeld had acted as judge, jury and executioner, and the video evidence showed there was no threat to the officer. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Roses mother added she was unsurprised by the verdict: It isnt what I hoped for, but its what I expected. Her family will now pursue the federal civil rights lawsuit they filed last August against Mr Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh police. Additional reporting by agencies A senior golden retriever has been given a seeing-eye puppy to help him navigate the world after losing his sight to glaucoma. Charlie had both eyes removed in a double enucleation after developing the debilitating condition. To help the 11-year-old pooch adjust to the new stage of his life, his owners got four-month-old Maverick to help him out. In a bid to document Charlie and Mavericks journey, the North Carolina couple started an Instagram profile called CharlieandMav, which has already amassed almost 60,000 followers. In their first post, Charlie and Maverick introduced themselves as just a couple of happy pups. 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 Charlie had glaucoma which led to his double enucleation (both eyes removed), the post caption read. Now, Maverick is here to help Charlie around and Charlie is trying to teach Maverick manners. One video shows Maverick playing a game of tug-of-war. Despite not being able to see, Charlie wins and retreats with his prize. The new friends have captured the hearts of tens of thousands on social media, with one commenter writing: Tears of happiness so beautiful! Another said: Doesnt get much cuter than these two guys. Parties involved in a dispute over whether regulators in North Dakota should be involved in the siting of an oil refinery near Theodore Roosevelt National Park have filed their initial legal arguments in state court. Here is a look at the dispute over the $800m (606m) Davis Refinery being built by Meridian Energy. The refinery Meridian wants to build the project just 3 miles (5km) from the park thats the states top tourist attraction, drawing more than 700,000 visitors annually. The company says the facility will be the cleanest refinery on the planet, a model for future plants and a boost for the area economy. Environmental groups worry pollution will erode air quality at the park and mar its majestic scenery. 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 Meridian began site work last summer and plans to resume construction this spring with a goal of having the refinery fully operating by mid-2021. How much oil? The amount of oil Meridian says it will process at the refinery is central to why North Dakota regulators never considered the appropriateness of the site. Under state law, oil refineries with a capacity of 50,000 or more barrels daily need to obtain a site permit from the Public Service Commission, a process that involves public hearings and can take half a year or longer to complete. Meridian initially told the media, investors and government officials that the refinery would have a capacity of 55,000 barrels, but the company later lowered the figure to 49,500. The legal challenge The Environmental Law and Policy Center and the Dakota Resource Council believe Meridian pulled a fast one. The groups criticised the commission for trusting the company and appealed to district court. What do the environmental groups say? In their initial argument filed late last month, the groups say they havent even been given an opportunity to make their case in a formal hearing. They want a chance to question Meridian CEO William Prentice about an affidavit he signed last August saying the company has no current plans for any expansion beyond 49,500 barrels per day. This statement flatly contradicted all publicly available information, their attorneys wrote. They offer a hypothetical comparison of an assault suspect getting off scot-free simply by signing an affidavit saying, I didnt touch him. They go on to say, This isnt a question of jurisdiction; it is a question of disputed material fact. They want a judge to send the case back to the commission with orders for a hearing. Whats the commissions position? The agency contends its following state law and that the only disputed fact seems to be over Meridians sincerity. In her initial court filing this month, assistant attorney general Jennifer Verleger turned to the silver screen to bolster her argument. In the movie Minority Report, police arrest perpetrators before they commit their crimes, based solely on the premonitions of psychics, she wrote. In this case, the environmental appellants are the psychics asking PSC to take action against Meridian because they allege Meridian will soon violate the law. Ms Verleger argued that a hearing will not help predict the future and that the commission must take Meridian at its word. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Whats meridians take? Meridian has denied trying to skirt state law, and in its initial legal filing accused the environmental groups of yet another effort to stymie progress on the refinery. The groups have unsuccessfully sued over the projects county permit and state air quality permit, and now seek to conduct overly broad and invasive discovery on irrelevant issues, Meridian attorney Lawrence Bender wrote. He argued that granting the environmental groups a PSC hearing based upon their own speculation would support their fishing expedition and create a giant legal loophole for opponents of future projects. Associated Press After roughly two years, special counsel Robert Mueller's much-anticipated report on Russia's meddling in the 2016 election is set to be made public, with Democrats and Republicans sparring over how much of the 400-page document should see the light of day. The release comes a month after Mr Barr penned a letter to Congress detailing the basic findings of the report, and set off a firestorm of criticism from Democrats who claimed that America's lead law enforcement official was shielding Donald Trump after a lengthy and exhausting investigation. Still, he report's release could ultimately lay bare further truths behind the foreign nations efforts to impact American democracy, and those who helped along the way. The conclusion of Mr Muellers probe comes amid a particularly polarising period in American politics, with the nation enraptured with the slow drip of details that have emerged from the investigation and painted an alarming portrait of a vast network of individuals connected to Donald Trump and implicated in a range of crimes. But, it appears as though any prosecution of those crimes remains a distant possibility, after Mr Barr's letter indicating that the Justice Department found insufficient evidence of crimes by Mr Trump. He also wrote that there was no collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia a claim that comes after repeated revelations of contacts between the campaign and officials related to the Kremlin. Heres how we got here. 2017 17 May 2017 Mr Mueller is appointed to as special counsel by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. The appointment comes just over a week after Mr Trump fires former FBI Director James Comey for, among other things, investigating his campaigns connection to Russian meddling in the 2016 election. Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Show all 20 1 /20 Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Donald Trump's Cabinet Donald Trump's Cabinet is one the richest in American history, filled with billionaires, conservatives and several career politicians. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mike Pence US Vice President Mike Pence has defended Donald Trump throughout his presidency while walking a fine line to avoid any public involvement in major scandals. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mike Pompeo Secretary of State Mike Pompeo replaced Donald Trump's previous appointment to the post, Rex Tillerson, and has led talks with North Korea in establishing high-profile summits between the president and Kim Jong Un. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Wilbur Ross Secretary of Commerce Wibur Ross raised controversy when he was accused of falsely claiming to have sold stock in a bank and violated a government ethics agreement. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Lighthizer US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has been a fixture in Donald Trump's ongoing trade spat with China. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet William Barr Attorney General William Barr replaced Jeff Sessions as the nation's top cop in early 2019 and has refused to commit to recusing himself from the Russia probe despite an unsolicited memo he sent to the Justice Department decrying the investigation. EPA Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Rick Perry Energy Secretary Rick Perry has held his post throughout Donald Trump's presidency despite previously undermining the need for the agency he now leads in past public statements. Ken Shipp / United States Department of Energy Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Betsy DeVos Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has also held her post throughout the presidency, despite major backlash to her apparent undermining of the nationwide public school system and advocacy for charter programmes. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Steven Mnuchin Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has faced numerous controversies throughout his tenure as the head of Treasury, including costing taxpayers at least a million dollars in travel expenses. AP Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Wilkie Veterans Affairs secretary Robert Wilkie was appointed after Donald Trump's White House doctor Ronny Jackson withdrew over allegations he provided prescription drugs to patients without prescriptions. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet David Bernhardt Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt took office in January 2019 after the resignation of Ryan Zinke after previously serving as Zinke's deputy. Before taking office Bernhardt worked for many years as a solicitor for the Department of the Interior. Tami Heilemann / United States Department of the Interior Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Elaine Chao Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao has held her post throughout the presidency and has mostly avoided controversy, despite a report claiming her office has been in frequent coordination with her husband's, Mitch McConnell. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Kevin McAleenan Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin McAleenan took over from Kirstjen Nielsen after she resigned in April 2019. He previously worked as the executive director of the executive director of the Office of Anti Terrorism in the Customs and Border Protection agency United States Customs and Border Protection Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Ben Carson Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson was appointed shortly after Donald Trump took office and raised controversy over an exorbitant furnishing bill for his office. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Gina Haspel CIA Director Gina Haspel was appointed in 2018 and faced backlash surrounding her oversight of Guantanamo Bay. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Dan Coats Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats could be the next person to leave Donald Trump's administration over his refuting the president's claims surrounding ISIS. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Sonny Perdue Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue has been dogged by ethics questions throughout his tenure and faced controversy when emails showed the agency appeared willing to eagerly work with lobbyists under his leadership. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Alex Azar Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar is a former pharmaceutical lobbyist and former drug company executive. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mick Mulvaney Acting Chief of Staff and Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney has described himself as one of the most conservative officials in the White House. EPA Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Wilkie Secretary of State for Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie has spent his career on Capitol Hill serving in various roles in foreign affairs and defence. He holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the US Air Force Reserve. Gene Russell / United States Department of Veterans Affairs 14 June 2017 The special counsel investigation, started primarily to investigate Russian meddling in 2016, widens to include whether Mr Trump obstructed justice. The development follows after Mr Comey testified in Congress that Mr Trump had approached him to try and get him to let go of an investigation into former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who lid to Vice President Mike Pence about contacts he had with Russian diplomats before the presidents inauguration. 19 July 2017 Mr Trump warns Mr Mueller against investigation the Trump familys financial history, saying it would be crossing a red line. I think thats a violation, Trump tells the New York Times. Look, this is about Russia. 26 July 2017 Federal investigators raid the home of Paul Manafort, who was Mr Trumps 2016 campaign manager. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events 30 October 2017 Manafort and his associate Rick Gates are charged for financial and conspiracy crimes uncovered by the special counsels office. At the same time, a previous guilty plea by former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulous is revealed, showing that he misled investigators about contacts with Russian officials. Manafort and Gates saw charges related to their work for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party, bringing them tens of millions of dollars that they were accused of laundering. 1 December 2017 Flynn pleads guilty to willfully and knowingly [making] false, fictitious and fraudulent statements and representations to investigators about his contacts with former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. He agrees to cooperate with the special counsel investigation. Donald Trump launches furious tirade against Mueller on White House lawn as he calls Comey a 'bad cop' 2018 16 February 2018 The special counsels office brings charges against 13 Russian nationals and three Russian groups for working to interfere in the 2016 election. The allegations include charges that these individuals began a concentrated campaign in 2014 to influence the election that included stealing the identities of Americans and creating false online personas. The efforts are tied to the Russian group the Internet Research Agency, which used social media platforms like Facebook to spread disinformation and divisive rhetoric ahead of the 2016 election. 20 February 2018 Former lawyer Alex van der Zwaag is charged by the special counsels office for making materially false, fictitious, and fraudulent statements and representations to federal investigations about contacts he had with Gates. 'I will be shocked' Donald Trump's former lawyer predicts that there will be no Mueller report 22 February 2018 Mr Muellers probe files further charges against Manafort and Gates in a 32-count superseding indictment. The charges include tax fraud, bank fraud conspiracy, and failing to file appropriate reports on foreign bank accounts. Court documents say: Manafort and Gates generated tens of millions of dollars in income as a result of their Ukraine work. From approximately 2006 through the present, Manafort and Gates engaged in a scheme to hide income from United States authorities, while enjoying the use of the money. Manafort is named in 23 of the indictments. 23 February 2018 Gates pleads guilty on conspiracy and false statement charges, and agrees to cooperate with investigators. 3 April 2018 The first criminal sentence is handed down in relation to the Mueller probe. Van der Zwaag is sentenced to 30 days in prison, and told to pay a $20,000 fine. 9 April 2018 Donald Trumps former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, becomes the target of a federal raid on his home, office, and hotel room. Investigators raided Cohens properties seeking evidence related to a criminal campaign finance violation Mr Trump and Cohen allegedly paid out near the end of the 2016 campaign to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to keep her silent about an alleged affair with the president in 2006. Donald Trump's acting attorney general shuts down questions on Mueller probe: 'Your five minutes is up' 8 June 2018 Manaforts longtime aide Konstantin Kilimnik is the target of new charges. He is accused of witness tampering. 13 July 2018 Mr Muellers team indicts 12 Russians in relation to the 2016 hack of the Democratic National Committees email servers. The 12 Russians are all members of Russian intelligence services. Former Trump adviser Roger Stone appears to be referenced in the charges, but is not named. 21 August 2018 Manafort is found guilty on eight charges of bank and tax fraud in federal court in Virginia. Meanwhile, Cohen pleads guilty in federal court on financial crimes. Cohen also pleads guilty to charges that have shaped up to be a major potential liability: The payments to Daniels, which totalled $130,000, to keep her silent about the alleged affair. That level of undisclosed help for a presidential campaign violates campaign finance rules, and Cohen indicates the payments were made at the discretion of a candidate for federal office. 7 September 2018 Papadopoulos is sentenced to 14 days in prison. 14 September 2018 Manafort pleads guilty to charges filed in federal court in Washington, DC. He agrees to cooperate with investigators. 26 October 2018 Mr Muellers team interviews former Trump strategist Steve Bannon about Mr Stone, who had made comments suggesting he knew about the DNC email hacks before they were made public by WikiLeaks. 7 November 2018 After Attorney General Jeff Sessions resigns, Matthew Whittaker is appointed as acting attorney general and prepares to take over oversight of the Mueller probe. Mr Whittaker faces questions about conflict of interest related to the probe for past critical remarks of Mr Muellers investigation. 20 November 2018 Mr Trump reportedly submits answers to written questions from Mr Muellers team. Ivanka Trump says she has 'zero concern' over Mueller investigation 29 November 2018 Cohen admits that he lied to Congress about talks to build a Trump branded real estate project in Moscow during the 2016 campaign. 4 December 2018 Mr Mueller recommends no jail for Flynn, touting his assistance with the Russia investigation. 7 December 2018 New York prosecutors in a case separate form Mr Muellers probe but arising from its evidence recommend substantial prison time for Cohen, saying that even though he is cooperating with the Russia probe his crimes were substantial. Mr Mueller writes a separate memo related to the case, saying that he is not taking a position on Cohens sentencing. Elsewhere, prosecutors file charges against Manafort for allegedly lying to them and breaching his plea agreement. 12 December 2018 Cohen receives a three year prison sentence. He is told to voluntarily surrender in March, and to pay $1.4 million in restitution, forfeit $500,000 and pay a $50,000 fine. 20 December 2018 The House Intelligence Committee votes to turn over transcripts from its interview with Roger Stone on Russian interference from earlier in the year. Mr Stone responds that the transcripts should be made public. Donald Trump refuses to say if he'll make Mueller report public Donald Trump refuses to say if he'll make Mueller report public 2019 25 January 2019 Mr Stone is arrested at his home in Florida, and faces federal charges. 15 February 2019 Mr Muellers team recommends 19.5 to 24.5 years in prison for Manaforts crimes. 22 February 2019 The judge overseeing Mr Stones case issues a full gag order after he posts a photo on social media that includes the judges photo and a crosshair symbol. 23 February 2019 Mr Muellers team files a sentencing memo for Manafort, calling him a hardened criminal who brazenly broke the law for decades before he was caught. 7 February 2019 Manafort is sentenced to just under four years in prison for his crimes prosecuted in Virginia, far less than the recommendation Mr Mueller submitted. 14 March 2019 Manafort receives an additional 43 months on his sentence for his crimes charged in Washington, bring his total prison time to 7.5 years. 22 March 2019 Mueller report sent to the attorney general's office. 24 March 2019 Mr Barr submits a 4-page summary of the Mueller report to Congress, saying that there was no collusion and that Mr Trump will not be charged with obstruction of justice. 27 March 2019 Mr Barr agrees to testify before Congress about the Mueller report "reasonably soon". 3 April 2019 The House Judiciary Committee, controlled by Democrats, votes to grant chairman Jerry Nadler the power to subpoena the full and un-redacted Mueller report, and instructs Mr Barr to testify before the committee before May 2, which he had planned. 7 April 2019 Mr Trump says he has not read the Mueller report, and calls it a "total waste of time". 9/10 April 2019 Mr Barr, testifying before Congress on the Justice Department's budget, is asked about the report, and says that he will deliver the redacted report within the week. He also says that the FBI likely spied on the Trump campaign. Special counsel Robert Mueller did not recommend any further charges as he submitted his long-awaited report on his investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 US election. The findings, which remain confidential, were delivered to attorney general William Barr, via the office of his deputy Rod Rosenstein who has been overseeing the inquiry. Mr Barr, who was chosen for the role by Donald Trump last year, will decide how much of it to share with Congress. In a letter to congressional leaders he said that he thought he would be able to inform them of the key findings this weekend. He planned to write his own account of the findings, he added. I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, he wrote, pledging a commitment to transparency. With no details released at this point, it is not known whether Mr Muellers report answers the core questions of his investigation: did Mr Trumps campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favour of the celebrity businessman? Also, did Mr Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS However, a senior Justice Department official said Mr Mueller did not recommend any further indictments, suggesting no more criminal charges will be brought against the president or his associates. The White House said it had not seen or been briefed on the special counsels document. What happens next is up to attorney general Barr, said spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. Mr Trump was at his Mar-a-Lago property in Florida when the Justice Department announced delivery of the report. Senior Democrats Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer said it was imperative to make the full report public. The American people have a right to the truth, the house speaker and senate minority leader said in a joint statement. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public. Recommended Trump rants about Mueller probe as Roger Stone returns to court Democrats also expressed concern that Mr Trump would try to get a sneak preview of the findings. Mr Barr has said he wants to make as much of the report public as possible, but any efforts to withhold details will prompt a tussle between the Justice Department and politicians who may subpoena Mr Mueller and his investigators to testify before Congress. Such a move by Democrats would probably be vigorously contested by the Trump administration. The conclusion of Mr Muellers investigation does not remove legal peril for the president as he faces a separate Justice Department investigation in New York into hush money payments during the campaign to two women who say they had sex with him years before the election. He has also been implicated in a potential campaign finance violation by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who plead guilty to his role in the payments and alleged that the president asked him to arrange the transactions. Federal prosecutors, also in New York, have been investigating foreign contributions made to the presidents inaugural committee. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Mr Mueller also secured convictions against Mr Trumps former campaign chairman Paul Manafort who cheated banks and dodged his taxes and his national security adviser Michael Flynn, who lied about his Russian contacts, and a campaign aide who misled the FBI about his knowledge of stolen emails. Another Trump confidant, Roger Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied about his pursuit of Russian-hacked emails ultimately released by WikiLeaks. Mr Trump has increasingly tried to undermine the probe by calling it a witch hunt and repeatedly proclaiming there was No Collusion with Russia. But the president also took certain acts as president that caught Mr Muellers attention and have been scrutinised for possible obstruction. Although the president criticised Mr Muellers team, his White House and campaign produced thousands of documents for the special counsel, and dozens of his aides were interviewed. The president submitted written answers to Mr Mueller regarding the Russia investigation, but he refused to be interviewed. Close Donald Trump launches furious tirade against Mueller on White House lawn as he calls Comey a 'bad cop' Special counsel Robert Mueller has submitted a report to the attorney generals office, signalling the end to a two year investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 US election. Mr Mueller did not recommend any further indictments, a senior Justice Department official said. Although no specific information from the report has been made available yet, this announcement may suggest no more criminal charges against Donald Trump associates from the investigation. The report has been handed to Attorney General William Barr, who President Trump selected at the end of 2018. Donald Trump was at his Mar-a-Lago property in Florida when the Justice Department announced the reports arrival. In response to the report White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said: The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS After news of Mr Mueller finishing his report, Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer spoke to press, emphasising the party message that the report must be made public. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in what parts of the report are made public, Mr Schumer said. The demand of the public is overwhelming ... it will be made public. The US special counsels investigators have looked into a large number of contacts between people associated with Mr Trumps 2016 campaign and Russia. Mr Mueller sought to determine whether the campaign coordinated with Moscow, though it was not immediately clear whether the special counsel found evidence of a conspiracy. Follow events as they happened below Additional reporting by Reuters The writers went on to answer charges that Hotel Mumbai is overly sympathetic to the Pakistani terrorists (it isnt, for the record), or that the filmmakers can be accused of exploiting the suffering of the victims. On that count, Id say the accusations are correct. Other critics disagree. Others see the movie the way Maras says he intended it, as a plea for peace, and an indictment of extremism. So this is it. After two years, more than 30 indictments or guilty pleas and close to 200 individual charges special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation is expected to be wound up within a few more days. His final verdict has been delivered to attorney general William Barr the third attorney general since the special counsel was handed oversight of one of the most sensitive investigations in US history. It is up to Mr Barr as to what Congress, and by extension the US public, see of the report. Mr Barr has pledged transparency over a report that at least one US official is said to have called comprehensive. However, if early reports of the contents of Mr Muellers findings into Russian election meddling and possible collusion with Donald Trumps campaign are to be believed, there will be no new damage to the presidents former inner circle. No new indictments are said to have been recommended. Mr Trump and his White House staff may be preparing to breathe a sigh of relief at the news the presidents strategy has always been to deny the allegations and to try and keep the investigation at arms length. The fact that around half a dozen former Trump officials have been indicted has ensured such tactics have been met with scepticism by many. According to Justice Department rules Mr Muellers report should explain the special counsels decisions. These include who was charged and who wasnt, and why each choice was made. Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS There is little doubt that Mr Trump will seek to undermine the contents of the report, having spent much of the last two years publicly admonishing Mr Mueller as well as a number of his former associates who have either been found guilty or pleaded guilty to crimes that stemmed from the investigation. Mr Trumps former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen, Mr Trumps former campaign chief Paul Manafort and the presidents former national security adviser Michael Flynn are some of those who have been found guilty or agreed plea deals with Mr Muellers team or other prosecutors. Mr Trump will probably use whatever is released of the report to support his constant utterances of innocence and no collusion. While it cannot be ruled out that Mr Mueller has one last rabbit to pull out of his hat with the investigation having proved virtually leak-proof in the last two years the result of the report is likely to disappoint many liberals. But Mr Trump cannot breath completely easy just yet. First, there is the possibility that Mr Mueller could highlight possible collusion or obstruction of justice even without any new indictments, although current indictments should have pointed more definitely to that before now. But Mr Trumps biggest problem is that the Mueller inquiry has led to, or spawned, a number of other investigations. Prosecutors in both the southern and eastern areas of New York, Washington DC and parts of Virginia are all conducting federal probes that stretch beyond the scope of Mr Muellers work. Those prosecutors are not bound by the more limiting instructions and rules that Mr Muellers office must follow, and they do not face the scrutiny or pressure to finish promptly that the special counsels office have. With Democrats having also taken control of the House of Representatives in Novembers midterm elections, there are a number of investigations either beginning or slated to begin into Mr Trumps finances and other potential conduct from inside the White House. Leading Democrats have already called for Mr Barr to release the full Mueller report, and such pressure is unlikely to let up any time soon. For the best part of two years, America and the rest of the world have waited for Robert Mueller to complete his report into Russias alleged interference in the 2016 election and possible collusion between Moscow and the Trump campaign. Now he has done so, and attorney general William Barr has said he could update members of congress with details as early as this weekend. The special counsel has submitted to me today a confidential report explaining the prosecution or declination decisions he has reached, he on Friday wrote to members of Congress, including Republicans Lindsey Graham and Doug Collins, and Democrats Jerrold Nadler and Dianne Feinstein, the chairs and ranking members of the two judiciary committees. I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. He added: Separately, I intend to consult with deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein and special counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law. Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS So after all that what happens next? All eyes on Bill Barr: Barr, who oversees the investigation, has said he wants to release as much information as he can about the inquiry, as is consistent with the law, including the Special Counsel regulations, and the Departments long-standing practices and policies. I remain committed to as much transparency as possible, and I will keep you informed as to the status of my review. Barr has said he envisions two reports, and only one for congressional and public consumption. Barr has said he takes seriously the shall be confidential part of the regulations governing Muellers report. He has noted that department protocol says internal memos explaining charging decisions should not be released. During his confirmation hearing, Barr said he will draft, after Mueller turns in his report, a second one for the chairman and ranking members of the House and Senate Judiciary committees. But here again, the regulations provide little guidance for what such a report would say. The attorney general is required only to say the investigation has concluded and describe or explain any times when he or Rosenstein decided an action Mueller proposed was so inappropriate or unwarranted that it should not be pursued. Pressure: Pressure is already mounting from Democrats for it to be made completely public. All of the major Democrats running for 2020 made such demands, as has Democratic senator Mark Mark Warner, vice chairman of the Senate intelligence committee. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, sent out a joint statement calling on Mr Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public, they said. Some senior Republicans have also demanded the report be made public. Senator Chuck Grassley said releasing the report would to finally put an end to the speculation and innuendo that has loomed over this administration since its earliest days. 'I will be shocked' Donald Trump's former lawyer predicts that there will be no Mueller report White House: Mr Trump has yet to comment on the report. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement: The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. Mr Trumps lawyers lawyers say they were pleased that the special counsel has delivered his report. Rudy Giuliani and Jay Sekulow issued their joint statement within minutes of Barrs letter to key members of Congress. Were pleased that the Office of Special Counsel has delivered its report to the attorney general pursuant to the regulations. Attorney General Barr will determine the appropriate next steps. But Muellers report, still confidential, sets the stage for big public fights to come, including in all likelihood, in federal court. Its not clear how much of the report will become public or provided to Congress. It is likely the White House will claim executive privilege permits the president to determine how transparent to be. Indeed, Mr Giuliani has also raised the prospect Trump legal team could try to invoke executive privilege to prevent the disclosure of any confidential conversation the president has had with his aides. This week, asked by reporters whether it should be made public, Mr Trump said he would be happy if the report is made public. Let it come out, let people see it, thats up to the attorney general....and well see what happens, he said. Legal cloud over the president. Mr Trump still has to contend with state and federal investigations in New York even with the Russia investigation complete. Some legal observers have ling said the greater threat to the presidency could stem from ongoing investigations in New York. Federal prosecutors in Manhattan are still investigating hush money payments that former Trump attorney Michael Cohen arranged to women who claimed affairs with Trump. Another inquiry is looking at the presidents inaugural committee and whether it received illegal foreign contributions. The US Justice Department has held for nearly a half-century that a sitting president is immune from indictment. But he could be charged after leaving office. Mr Trump has denied breaking any laws. Impeachment? As Mr Muellers report was handed in, a spokesperson for the Department of Justice said the special counsel was not recommending any further indictments. It is possible some indictments remain sealed and could be unsealed later. Democrats will now have to wait and see the details of the report to decide whether it has found the president has obstructed justice or acted in a way that would merit them seeking his impeachment. Democrats are very cautious of taking such a step, aware as they are of the potential political backlash. With inputs from Associated Press House Democrats, concerned president Donald Trumps attorney general may withhold evidence of wrongdoing uncovered by special counsel Robert Mueller, are preparing for potential battle over access to the full contents of Mr Muellers newly completed report, vowing to pursue it and any underlying investigative materials in court if necessary. We will fight for the full report, said representative Jerrold Nadler, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, emphasising that Democrats expect complete transparency from Mr Mueller and the Justice Department, save for redactions of classified information that could jeopardise sensitive law enforcement methods if disclosed publicly. Attorney general William Barr informed the heads of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees in a letter on Friday he might be able to advise them of Mr Muellers principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. He also noted neither Mr Barr nor his predecessors had challenged any actions Mr Mueller took during his probe. But with limited power to compel information from potential witnesses, congressional Democrats are looking to Mr Muellers findings to inform their investigations of Mr Trumps campaign, businesses and alleged foreign ties and insist they will be satisfied with nothing short of a complete account of the results and the evidence that informed them. Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS The special counsels investigation focused on questions that go to the integrity of our democracy itself: whether foreign powers corruptly interfered in our elections, and whether unlawful means were used to hinder that investigation, house speaker Nancy Pelosi and senate minority leader Charles Schumer said in a joint statement after Mr Barr announced Mr Mueller had completed his report. The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency. The stakes are high: If the special counsel found evidence Mr Trump committed a crime, participated in a cover up, or otherwise engaged in conduct undermining the public trust, it could fuel calls for impeachment, which Democratic leaders have resisted absent proof of wrongdoing. According to the Justice Department, Mr Mueller has not recommended any further indictments news Mr Trumps defenders in the GOP took as vindication. The reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what weve known all along: there was never any collusion with Russia, representative Steve Scalise of Louisiana, the Houses second-ranking Republican, said in a statement. Donald Trump refuses to say if he'll make Mueller report public Mr Trumps disdain for Mr Muellers probe, which he has labelled a witch hunt, and his animus towards congressional oversight, which he considers presidential harassment, have fed Democrats suspicion he might have something to hide and might attempt to force Mr Barr to conceal any unsavoury details from public view. As a result, Ms Pelosi and Mr Schumer warned on Friday it was imperative Mr Barr publicise Mr Muellers findings no later than the president was made aware of the reports contents. Attorney general Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any sneak preview of special counsel Muellers findings or evidence, they said. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public. Republicans say the full report should be released. But they have stopped short of echoing the Democrats concerns, expressing faith Mr Barr will be as transparent as possible indicating they will defer to Mr Barr, not fight him. Were jumping about 60 steps too far, said the Judiciary Committees ranking minority-party member, representative Douglas Collins when asked about the Democrats plans. At this point in time Im not going to question my attorney generals veracity or the fact that hes going to do what he says hes going to do. Until he proves me wrong. Criminals who worked for Trump Show all 5 1 /5 Criminals who worked for Trump Criminals who worked for Trump Michael Cohen Former lawyer for Donald Trump was sentenced to three years in prison on counts involving evading income tax, false disclosure of the hush money paid to Stormy Daniels and another hush money charge Getty Criminals who worked for Trump Paul Manafort Former campaign manager for Trump Manafort was found guilty in February 2018 of five counts of tax fraud, two counts of bank fraud and one count of failure to disclose a foreign bank account. The crimes occurred prior to his appointment in Trump's campaign Getty Criminals who worked for Trump George Papadopoulos Former Trump campaign adviser Papadopoulos pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI in October 2017. He had lied about making contact with a professor who claimed that the Russians had dirt on Hillary Clinton. He was sentenced to 14 days in jail Getty Criminals who worked for Trump Michael Flynn Former White House National Security adviser Michael Flynn pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI in December 2017. He had lied about conversations that he had with the Russian ambassador to the US during Trump's Presidential campaign. He was not given prison time due to his "significant assistance" to the Mueller investigation Getty Criminals who worked for Trump Rick Gates Deputy chairman of Trump's presidential campaign Gates pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI in February 2018 AFP/Getty Regulations governing Mr Muellers work, which centres on Russias interference in the 2016 presidential election and whether anyone in the Trump campaign conspired with those efforts, require the special counsel only to provide Mr Barr with a confidential report explaining why he elected to prosecute certain individuals or declined to do so. Mr Barr may release the report publicly, if he deems it in the public interest. That is not required, though he is under considerable pressure to do so. One key question Democrats have is whether Mr Mueller has concluded that Mr Trump engaged in criminal activities but declined to charge him in deference to Justice Department policy that a sitting president may not be indicted. Such information should be made public, they argue. If the special counsel has reason to believe that the president has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct, then the Justice Department has an obligation not to conceal such information, the Democratic chairs of the six House panels conducting investigations that dovetail with Mr Muellers probe said in a joint statement Friday night. Anything less than full transparency would raise serious questions about whether the Department of Justice policy is being used as a pretext for a cover up of misconduct. Donald Trump launches furious tirade against Mueller on White House lawn as he calls Comey a 'bad cop' Compounding Democrats unease are remarks made in February by deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein, who said the Justice Department should not reveal information about people it does not charge with crimes. That suggests the department will not release interviews, emails or other material concerning the president and others who were not charged, even though such information could be useful to ongoing investigations in the House. Im concerned that [DOJ is] signalling theyre going to fight the Congress when it comes to [Mr Muellers] underlying evidence, said representative Adam Schiff who as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee is leading one of six Trump-related probes in the House. The Senate Intelligence Committee is also examining Russias activities surrounding the 2016 election, a probe that began shortly after Mr Trumps inauguration. Were going to have to pick and choose our legal battles, Mr Schiff added, but it seems to me there are few fights as important as this one. 'I will be shocked' Donald Trump's former lawyer predicts that there will be no Mueller report To obtain the full report, Democrats will likely first negotiate with the Justice Department. An offer to let members read it in a secure room designed for viewing classified materials would not suffice, Mr Nadler said. No, no, no, he said. Information that goes to [intelligence] sources and methods should not be public. But everything else should be. If negotiations fail to produce the complete report and its underlying evidence, then the Democrats will move to more coercive measures such as subpoenas, Mr Nadler said. The next step after that is to ask Mueller to testify in front of the committee, he said. If the Justice Department resists, Ms Pelosi would have to decide whether to start a political battle by seeking to hold administration officials in contempt of Congress a decision likely to result in lengthy court fights. The administration could also seek to prevent disclosure of material involving the president by claiming it is subject to executive privilege, but such claims are not absolute. Ivanka Trump says she has 'zero concern' over Mueller investigation Mr Nadler and Mr Barr met in March for a working lunch, their first face-to-face meeting. Mr Nadler said he conveyed the importance of releasing the full report and underlying materials. Mr Barr, he added, just repeated that hed do what he could and wanted to have as much disclosure as possible, period. He wasnt getting specific and couldnt get specific. Mr Nadler cited two instances in which a court found that the executive branch could turn over grand jury material, one during the congressional investigation and impeachment proceedings of president Richard Nixon and the other during the 2010 impeachment trial of Thomas Porteous, a federal judge from Louisiana who was accused of taking bribes from lawyers and lying to lawmakers during their investigation. It should not be necessary that there be a formal impeachment proceeding for Congress to get that material, Mr Schiff said. It should be enough that Congress has a public purpose for it. Mr Nadler said its important for the public to see the full report, whether it implicates or exonerates the president, to begin to restore trust in government. The reason Mueller was appointed in the first place is theres a crisis of confidence, he said. To the extent he knows something or reaches a conclusion, the public ought to know it, and ought to know the underlying evidence. Robert Mueller urges graduates to value integrity in commencement speech at Tabor Academy The Democrats intend to leverage a precedent set by the Justice Department during the last Congress in connection with Republican-led investigations into Hillary Clintons use of a private email server, the dismissal of FBI deputy director Andrew McCabe and allegations of bias among law enforcement officials involved in the Russia investigation. In those matters, the department released to Congress hundreds of thousands of internal documents regarding the FBIs decision-making, and all underlying documents involving the surveillance of a former Trump campaign official. Though he warned against the practice then, Mr Schiff said he believes the department should match or outpace that level of compliance with regard to Mr Muellers work, to avoid the appearance of being orchestrated by the president. The chairs of the six House panels investigating Mr Trump, including Oversight, Ways and Means, Financial Services and Foreign Affairs, also plan to issue preservation letters to agencies that have provided information to Mr Mueller, such as the Justice Department, the FBI, the White House Counsels Office. They want the agencies to retain any memos, correspondence, or other information that could be relevant in their ongoing probes. The CIA, National Security Agency, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Treasury and State departments also will receive letters. Democratic lawmakers issued similar letters last year when Mr Trump fired his first attorney general, Jeff Sessions. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Democrats believe Mr Muellers report and investigative materials will facilitate their efforts to further scrutinise Mr Trumps campaign and administration, his personal finances and his business operations as they search for evidence of corruption or any effort to obstruct justice. There may be a lot of useful information in there, even if we think some things are unnecessarily redacted, said representative Jamie Raskin, a senior member of the Judiciary and Oversight committees. But as a first order of business, when Mr Barr delivers a report on Mr Muellers probe to Congress, Mr Raskin said: We plan to read it. Washington Post President Donald Trump tweeted Friday that he has reversed his administration's decision to slap new sanctions on North Korea, with his press secretary explaining that the president "likes" leader Kim Jong Un and doesn't think they're necessary. It's unclear, however, which sanctions the president was referencing in his tweet, which took Treasury officials by surprise. "It was announced today by the US Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea," Trump wrote from his private club in Palm Beach, Florida. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" The White House did not immediately respond to questions about which sanctions Trump was referring to, or what large-scale sanctions were poised to be added to existing ones already imposed on North Korea. North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Show all 18 1 /18 North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Participants wave flowers AFP/Getty North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) waves with China's Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress Li Zhanshu (L) from a balcony AFP/Getty North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Airplanes forming the number 70 fly in formation and fire flares AP North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary North Korean performers dance EPA North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary North Korean military officers applaud near portraits of late North Korean leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il AP North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary North Korean tanks roll past AP North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary AP North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Korean People's Army (KPA) soldiers take part AFP/Getty North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Korean People's Army (KPA) soldiers march AFP/Getty North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Participants march during a mass rally on Kim Il Sung square in Pyongyang AFP/Getty North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary A girl reacts during a parade AP North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, right, reacts as he chats with China's third highest ranking official, Li Zhanshu AP North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary People carry flags in front of statues of North Korea founder Kim Il Sung (L) and late leader Kim Jong Il Reuters North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Performers take part in a concert at the Pyongyang Indoor Stadium AFP/Getty North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary North Korean artillery roll past AP North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Students perform Reuters North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Soldiers march during a military parade Reuters North Korea military parade celebrating nation's 70th anniversary Participants wave flowers AFP/Getty On Thursday, his administration did sanction two Chinese shipping companies suspected of helping North Korea evade sanctions the first targeted actions taken against Pyongyang since Trump and Kim met in Hanoi, Vietnam, last month for negotiations about North Korea's nuclear weapons program. In addition to Trump's talks with North Korea, the US is knee-deep in delicate trade negotiations with China. A person familiar with the action told The Associated Press that Trump's tweet was not a reversal of existing sanctions, but that the president was talking about not going forward with additional large-scale sanctions on North Korea at this time. The person was not authorised to discuss the president's comments and spoke on condition of anonymity. It's unclear whether Trump's decision was related to North Korea's move on Friday to abruptly withdraw its staff from a liaison office with South Korea. The development is likely to put a damper on ties between the North and South and further complicate global diplomacy on North Korea's nuclear program. The withdrawal also is seen as a major setback for South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has sought improved relations with North Korea alongside the nuclear negotiations between the North and the United States. North Korea said it was withdrawing its staff under instructions from unspecified "higher-level authorities," according to a Unification Ministry statement. It didn't say whether the withdrawal would be temporary or permanent. South Korea called the North's decision regrettable and urged the North to return its staff to the liaison office soon. 'Speed is not that important to me' Kim Jong Un listens as Trump says he's in 'no rush' over North Korea denuclearisation deal It was the latest example of Trump's governance-by-tweet, which has often sent agency heads scrambling, trying to figure out what he meant and trying to implement policy proclamations that have not gone through traditional vetting processes. That includes when Trump announced, via tweet, that transgender people would no longer be allowed to serve in the military. And it came hours after Trump made the official announcement that Islamic State-controlled territory in Syria had been reduced to zero from an airport tarmac, using a printed map he held upside-down, instead of a formal statement or ceremony. His North Korea tweet prompted reporters to bombard officials at the White House National Security Council and Treasury Department with questions. All declined to comment. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders issued a brief statement saying only that Trump "likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary." When the administration announced the sanctions on Thursday against the Chinese shipping companies, administration officials briefed reporters. They said Thursday's sanctions were evidence the U.S. was maintaining pressure on North Korea in an effort to coax its leader to give up his nuclear weapons program. The Treasury Department sanctioned Dalian Haibo International Freight Co. Ltd. and Liaoning Danxing International Forwarding Co. Ltd. for using deceptive methods to circumvent international and US sanctions and the US commitment to implementing existing U.N. Security Council resolutions. Calls to the two companies rang without response Friday or were answered by people who immediately hung up the phone. The Treasury Department, in coordination with the State Department and the US Coast Guard, also updated a North Korea shipping advisory, adding dozens of vessels thought to be doing ship-to-ship transfers with North Korean tankers or exported North Korean coal in violation of sanctions. Two senior administration officials, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity to discuss US policy on North Korea, said that illegal ship-to-ship transfers that violate U.S. and international sanctions have increased and that not all countries, including China, are implementing the restrictions. They said the deceptive practices include disabling or manipulating ship identification systems, repainting the names on vessels and falsifying cargo documents. Associated Press A Russian tourist has been arrested in Bali after attempting to smuggle a drugged orangutan home in his luggage. Quarantine officials at Ngurah Rai International Airport detained Andrei Zhestkov on Friday after he passed through a security screening before a planned flight back to Russia. According to authorities, the two-year-old primate was found sleeping in a rattan basket. Mr Zhestkov prepared for the trip by packing baby formula and blankets for the orangutan. We believe the orangutan was fed allergy pills which caused him to sleep. We found the pills inside the suitcase, Bali conservation agency official I Ketut Catur Marbawa said in a statement. 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 [Zhestkov] seemed prepared, like he was transporting a baby, he added. Mr Zhestkov claimed that he was gifted the orangutan by his friend, who bought the primate for $3,000 (2,271) from a street market in Java. The 27-year-old added that he was informed by his friend had him he could bring home the orangutan as a pet. Officers also found two geckos and five lizards in the Russian's suitcase, Reuters reports. A two-year old male orangutan, which a Russian citizen attempted to smuggle out of Indonesia, looks out of a cage after being confiscated (REUTERS) Mr Zhestjov is now facing up to five years in prison and $7,000 in fines for smuggling. Orangutans are a critically endangered species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with only about 100,000 remaining worldwide. Threatened by deforestation to make way for palm oil plantations, campaigners say a key step towards ensuring the species survives is reconnecting the fragmented forests the primates are spread across. Illegal wildlife trade is rampant in Indonesia, despite efforts by authorities to crack down on smugglers. A city in Japan city plans to use artificial intelligence to combat bullying in schools. Otsu has joined forces with Tokyo-based Hitachi Systems Ltd to collaborate on the groundbreaking project, which is scheduled to start next month. School officials believe the technology will help teachers predict the seriousness of suspected school bullying cases, Japans national daily reports. According to The Mainichi, AI will be used to analyse 9,000 suspected bullying cases reported by elementary and junior high schools in the city over the six years through fiscal 2018. It will examine the grade-level and gender of the suspected victims and perpetrators as well as when and where the bullying occurred. 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 Otsu mayor Naomi Koshi previously said she expects local schools to act firmly against [bullying] without solely being dependent on teachers experience, by having AI theoretically analyse past data. The education board believes the analysis, expected to be completed by October, will make known the characteristics of bullying to help teachers identify cases in their classrooms. Otsus education board came under fire over the handling of a case involving a 13-year-old boy who committed suicide in 2011 by jumping from the building he lived in. In 2013, a panel determined he had been a victim of bullying. Since then, the citys education board has required each school to report bullying cases within 24 hours. A silence descended upon New Zealand on Friday as the nation united to mark a week since a terrorist attack in Christchurch took the lives of 50 people at prayer. A mark of respect, said Jacinda Ardern, should be shown by all. New Zealand mourns with you, we are one, the prime minister told the thousands gathered in Christchurch alone. Its a sentiment the leader has espoused since the country was shaken to its very core by the worst terror attack in its history. Immediately after the attack, which took place during lunchtime prayers at Linwood and Al Noor mosques last Friday, Ardern set the tone. Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities New Zealand is their home they are us, she tweeted. Since then, #theyareus has been shared on Instagram just under 15,000 times. Jacinda has been a beacon of hope in New Zealands darkest time, Alina Ganhucumb tells The Independent after completing a two-minute silence in Wellington. Shes behaved with such compassion, strength and integrity. Ive never felt prouder to be a New Zealander. I think all Kiwis feel the same. 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 Ardern has been praised internationally for her response to the Christchurch massacre but it is on home soil that her unwavering stance of unity and respect has resonated the most. During the two-minute silences across the country on Friday, most women wore a headscarf to show their respect for the Muslin community, a move inspired by Ardern. She herself took the unusual step to dress in a black headscarf as she consoled members of the Muslim community as she arrived in Christchurch last Saturday. Dr Zhiyan Basharati, lead in victim support for the Christchurch Organising Committee, has been working on the ground since the first victims were taken to hospital and admits that Arderns approach has been incredibly beneficial. While were a small community, we are looking at victims from all over the world and with that comes many boundaries that can be hard to navigate, especially when dealing with grief, says Dr Basharati. We couldnt have helped those victims like we have if it wasnt for the governments united approach. Arriving in a head scarf alone is an amazing gesture by Jacinda. Its something the Muslim community appreciates. Many note that Ardern has done more in seven days than most leaders carry out in decades. For one, she was was quick to label the mass shooting as an act of terrorism, despite many western leaders flip-flopping over the term when it comes to a white assailant. She also inspired New Zealanders to reach into their own pockets, crowdfunding almost 5m for the families effected, by revealing the government would be paying for the funeral costs for all those who had lost their lives. Shes behaved with such compassion, strength and integrity. Ive never felt prouder to be a New Zealander Alina Ganhucumb And as Ardern addressed parliament for the first time after the attack earlier this week, she also took another power move, stating shed never utter the name of Australian-born Brenton Tarrant, who was arrested and charged over the massacre. He is a terrorist. He is a criminal. He is an extremist. But he will, when I speak, be nameless, she said. But perhaps the most notable move in the last week is the Arderns astonishing speed to rewrite gun laws. On Thursday, six days after the attack, her government announced that military-style semi-automatics (MSSA) and assault rifles will be banned in New Zealand. Jacinda Ardern announces that New Zealand will ban all semi-automatic weapons The countrys leading political commentator Dr Bryce Edwards says even Arderns harshest critics are impressed by her effectiveness since the tragedy. Many people, myself included, have struggled to see how her advocacy of the politics of kindness is anything more than sloganeering that lacks any real substance, says Dr Edwards. But so far, it seems that Ardern has not put a foot wrong in dealing with the crisis. Shes been absolutely superb. Many have drawn comparison to US president Donald Trumps approach to gun crime in recent years, with Dr Edwards stating that Ardern asking the president to send love to Muslims is setting up the Kiwi leader as the leading anti-Trump world leader. Ardern has not put a foot wrong in dealing with the crisis. Shes been absolutely superb Dr Bryce Edwards He adds: Much about her style and her politics is the antithesis of what Trump represents. Therefore, Ardern will continue to escalate as a pole of attraction for those throughout the world who want to see some sort of symbol standing against the US president. As Christchurch native Victoria Belanie says, Shes showing the world you can show humility and be effective. You can be upset and still demand change. All of us in New Zealand really feel we are being led by the best and we want to be the best we can be as a result. A boy who alerted police that his school bus had been hijacked by its driver, who was threatening to burn the 51 children on board alive, is to be granted Italian citizenship. Ramy Shehata, of Egyptian origin, secretly rang his father on a hidden mobile phone after the driver demanded the children hand their phones over. Italys Ansa news agency reported that the 13-year-old made the call while pretending to pray in Arabic, but he was actually issuing a warning to his father who then phoned the police. After police arrived, the driver allegedly doused the vehicle with a flammable liquid and shouted: No one will survive today. The bus, which had been transporting two classes of schoolchildren from the province of Cremona to Milan, went up in flames. 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 But police managed to rescue all of the passengers through broken windows before the fire destroyed the vehicle, and there were no serious injuries. Ramys father, Khaled Shehata, who immigrated from Egypt in 2001, told Ansa news agency his son was born in Italy in 2005 but was never issued official citizenship documentation. Firefighters and police gather after man hijacked school bus and set it on fire in Milan My son did his duty, it would be nice if he got Italian citizenship now, he said. We would love to stay in this country. When I saw him yesterday I hugged him hard. Government officials said on Thursday they would fast-track and pay for the boys citizenship application. The interior ministry is ready to take care of the expense and to fast-track citizenship for this little hero, officials said in a statement. Currently, children born to immigrant parents in Italy have to wait until they turn 18 before being eligible to apply for citizenship. Meanwhile, the interior minister Matteo Salvini said he hoped to be able to revoke the Italian citizenship of the alleged bus driver under a security decree that the government introduced in December. Ousseynou Sy, a 47-year-old Senegalese immigrant who became an Italian citizen in 2004, has been charged with attempted murder, kidnapping, resisting arrest and arson. Prosecutors said there were no indications that Mr Sy was radicalised or had ties to Islamic terrorists, but that he claimed the kidnapping was to draw attention to refugee deaths in the Mediterranean Sea. Mr Sy allegedly bought a canister of petrol and restraints a day before the attack on Wednesday. Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily Show all 7 1 /7 Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily Refugees and migrants arriving in Italy on MSF rescue ship the Bourbon Argos in Catania, Sicily Lizzie DeardenI Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily Refugees and migrants disembarking from MSF rescue ship the Bourbon Argos in Catania, Sicily Lizzie Dearden Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily Refugees and migrants undergoing health checks after disembarking from MSF rescue ship the Bourbon Argos in Catania, Sicily Lizzie Dearden Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily Refugees and migrants undergoing security checks after disembarking from MSF rescue ship the Bourbon Argos in Catania, Sicily Lizzie Dearden Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily Refugees and migrants being fingerprinted after disembarking from MSF rescue ship the Bourbon Argos in Catania, Sicily Lizzie Dearden Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily Refugees and migrants being fingerprinted after disembarking from MSF rescue ship the Bourbon Argos in Catania, Sicily Lizzie Dearden Refugees and migrants arriving in Catania, Sicily A man being taken to hospital from MSF rescue ship the Bourbon Argos in Catania, Sicily Lizzie Dearden He also sent a video to friends in Italy and Senegal indicating plans for bold action, with the message Africa, Rise up, prosecutors said. Mr Sy has previously been convicted in 2007 and 2011 of drunken driving and sexual molestation of a minor, prosecutors added. Sky TG24 said the driver had worked for the bus company for 15 years without any employment-related issues. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Since coming into power in June, Italys ruling right-wing League party and populist Five Star Movement have established a strong anti-immigration stance. The country has previously threatened to close its ports to humanitarian refugee rescue ships. Last year, nearly 2,300 migrants and refugees died while attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe, according to the UN. Additional reporting by Associated Press Around 1,300 people are being evacuated from a cruise ship caught in stormy weather off the west coast of Norway, police said. The Viking Sky has suffered engine failure and all those aboard are being taken to shore, according to police in the county of More og Romsdal. Norways sea rescue agency said the cruise ship sent out a mayday signal after it began drifting towards the shore on Saturday afternoon. Wind was blowing at a speed of 38 knots with waves up to eight metres high, police told Norwegian newspaper VG. But the crew were later able to restart one engine and the ship was anchored about 2km from the shore. 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 ship belongs to the Viking Ocean Cruises, part of the Viking cruises group founded by Norwegian billionaire Torstein Hagen. The Viking Ocean Cruises website says the ship has capacity for 930 guests on board. Several vessels and four helicopters are involved in the rescue and facilities to receive passengers have been set up on land, the rescue service said. Recommended Reindeer at risk as Norway approves copper mine in Arctic Passengers were hoisted from the deck of the vessel and airlifted to a village just north of the town of Molde on Norways west coast. Only 87 people had been evacuated by 1750 GMT, and the airlift was set to continue throughout the night, rescue service spokeswoman Borghild Eldoen said. Eight of those evacuated had suffered light injuries. Rescue service spokesman Einar Knudsen told Reuters: If we need to evacuate everyone, it will take a long time. Video and photos from people on the ship showed it heaving, with chairs and other furniture dangerously rolling from side to side. Passengers were suited up in orange life vests but the waves broke some ship windows and cold water flowed over the feet of some passengers. Cruise passengers described the moment when the ships engines stopped, and the evacuation that followed. We were having lunch when it began to shake. Window panes were broken and water came in. It was just chaos. The trip on the helicopter, I would rather forget. It was not fun, American passenger John Curry told public broadcaster NRK. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The storm is expected to last at least until midnight local time, according to the Norwegian Meteorological Institute. The stretch of water where the ship suffered engine failure, known as Hustadvika, is well known for its bad weather and winter storms. The Norwegian government has even drawn up plans to build an ocean tunnel through a nearby mountain to improve safety. Later, authorities said, a second ship a freighter with a crew of nine also suffered an engine seizure and rescue helicopters were diverted to help. The Foreign Office has previously warned travellers about the perils of Arctic travel. It said: The most popular way of visiting the Arctic is by ship. As some areas of the Arctic specifically the more northerly and remote regions can be uncharted and ice-covered, you should check the previous operational experience of cruise and other operators offering travel in the region. You should also consider the on-board medical facilities of cruise ships and talk to cruise operators as appropriate, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Additional reporting by Reuters French "yellow vest" demonstrators began their 19th consecutive weekend of protests against president Emmanuel Macron's government on Saturday as military units were deployed to help police clamp down on any trouble. Protesters were banned from gathering on the Champs Elysees in Paris after shops and businesses on the avenue were looted and wrecked last weekend, leading the government to call in "Operation Sentinelle" army units for this weekend. Demonstrators began marching in the capital on Saturday along a new route taking them from Denfert Rochereau in southern Paris with the aim of finishing by Barbes, near the Sacre Coeur church in northern Paris. Named after the high-visibility vests French drivers have to keep in their cars and worn by protesters, the demonstrations began in November after public anger against fuel tax rises. The movement has morphed into a broader backlash against Mr Macron's government, despite it scrapping the fuel taxes, and it has often been marred by violent clashes and looting. Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 Show all 20 1 /20 Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A Yellow Vest protester dressed as a Gaul takes part in an anti-government demonstration called by the 'Yellow Vest' (gilets jaunes) movement in Paris, on March 23, 2019. - Demonstrators hit French city streets again on March 23, for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies and his top-down style of governing, high cost of living, government tax reforms and for more "social and economic justice." KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A protester holds a placard reads in French ''Empire expires'' during a rally in Paris, Saturday, March 23, 2019. Yellow vest demonstrators gathered in Paris and other French cities for a 19th round of demonstrations as authorities issued bans on protests in certain areas and enhanced security measures in an effort to avoid a repeat of last week's riots in the capital. AP Photo/Michel Euler Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 Yellow Vest protesters hold a banner reading 'RIC (Citizen's Initiated Referendum)' during an anti-government demonstration called by the 'Yellow Vest' (gilets jaunes) movement in Paris, on March 23, 2019. - Demonstrators hit French city streets again on March 23, for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies and his top-down style of governing, high cost of living, government tax reforms and for more "social and economic justice." FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A Yellow Vest protester holds a placard reading 'my loved ones, dad protests to change your country', on Denfert Rochereau Square in Paris on March 23, 2019, during an anti-government demonstration called by the 'Yellow Vest' (gilets jaunes) movement in Paris. - Demonstrators hit French city streets again on March 23, for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies and his top-down style of governing, high cost of living, government tax reforms and for more "social and economic justice." FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A woman holds her pet dog as French anti-riot police officers evacuate people during an anti-government demonstration called by the "Yellow Vests" (Gilets jaunes) movement near Garibaldi Square in Nice, southeastern France, on March 23, 2019. - Thousands of police fanned out across central Paris, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Dijon, Rennes and Nice, on March 23, 2019 as 'Yellow vest' demonstrators are expected to hit French city streets again for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies. VALERY HACHE/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A protester wearing a yellow vest holds a placard reading 'the King is naked' in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris on March 23, 2019, during an anti-government demonstration called by the 'Yellow Vest' (gilets jaunes) movement in Paris. - Demonstrators hit French city streets again on March 23, for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies and his top-down style of governing, high cost of living, government tax reforms and for more "social and economic justice." KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A protester from the 'Gilets Jaunes' (Yellow Vests) wears a yellow vest reading 'Macron, do you feel the quenelle?' (gesture popularized by French activist Dieudonne M'bala M'bala evoking fisting practice) on the Esplanade du Trocadero during the 'Act XIX' demonstration (the 19th consecutive national protest on a Saturday) in Paris, France, 23 March 2019. To prevent a repeat of the last week riots, French authorities have banned demonstrations in a large area in the west of Paris, including the Champs-Elysees. Yellow vest organizers called on social media for protests in different places in Paris, including the Trocadero square. EPA Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 Yellow Vest protesters hold a banner reading 'unemployment rights for all', on Denfert Rochereau Square in Paris on March 23, 2019, during an anti-government demonstration called by the 'Yellow Vest' (gilets jaunes) movement in Paris. - Demonstrators hit French city streets again on March 23, for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies and his top-down style of governing, high cost of living, government tax reforms and for more "social and economic justice." FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 Yellow Vest protesters gather on Denfert Rochereau Square in Paris on March 23, 2019, during an anti-government demonstration called by the 'Yellow Vest' (gilets jaunes) movement in Paris. - Demonstrators hit French city streets again on March 23, for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies and his top-down style of governing, high cost of living, government tax reforms and for more "social and economic justice." FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A yellow vest protester holds a placard reading 'democracy? not a chance' during an anti-government demonstration called by the 'Yellow Vest' (gilets jaunes) movement in Paris, on March 23, 2019. - Demonstrators hit French city streets again on March 23, for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies and his top-down style of governing, high cost of living, government tax reforms and for more "social and economic justice." FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A protester waves a coloured flag during a protest by the anti-government "Yellow Vests" (Gilets jaunes) movement in the city of Nice, southeastern France, on March 23, 2019. - Thousands of police fanned out across central Paris, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Dijon, Rennes and Nice, on March 23, 2019 as 'Yellow vest' demonstrators are expected to hit French city streets again for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies. VALERY HACHE/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 Yellow Vest protesters take part in an anti-government demonstration called by the 'Yellow Vest' (gilets jaunes) movement in Paris, on March 23, 2019. - Demonstrators hit French city streets again on March 23, for a 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest against the French President's policies and his top-down style of governing, high cost of living, government tax reforms and for more "social and economic justice." KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A man holds a placard as people attend the 19th week of Yellow vest demonstrations in Paris, France on March 23, 2019. Julien Mattia/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 People attend the 19th week of Yellow vest demonstrations as security forces stand guard in Paris, France on March 23, 2019. Julien Mattia/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 This picture taken early on March 2019, shows French police vehicles parked along the Champs-Elysees avenue in the French capital Paris in readiness for "Yellow vest" (Gilets jaunes) anti-governemnt demonstrators on the 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest. - Paris police have banned the protesters from a large area in the west of the city, including the famed Champs-Elysees avenue (which leads to the Arc de Triomphe), scene of last week's rampage by hundreds of anarchists, as well as the presidential palace and National Assembly. FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 Newly appointed Paris police Prefect Didier Lallement (C) speaks with police officers as he visits the Champs-Elysees avenue early on March 23, 2019 in the French capital Paris in readiness for "Yellow vest" (Gilets jaunes) anti-governemnt demonstrators on the 19th consecutive week of nationwide protest. - Paris police have banned the protesters from a large area in the west of the city, including the famed Champs-Elysees avenue (which leads to the Arc de Triomphe), scene of last week's rampage by hundreds of anarchists, as well as the presidential palace and National Assembly. FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 People attend the 19th week of Yellow vest demonstrations as they march in Paris, France on March 23, 2019. Julien Mattia/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 People attend the 19th week of Yellow vest demonstrations as they march in Paris, France on March 23, 2019. Julien Mattia/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A man holds a placard during the 19th week of Yellow vest demonstrations in Paris, France on March 23, 2019. Julien Mattia/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Yellow Vests Protest France March 2019 A protester from the 'Gilets Jaunes' (Yellow Vests) stands on the Esplanade du Trocadero, facing the Eiffel Tower during the 'Act XIX' demonstration (the 19th consecutive national protest on a Saturday) in Paris, France, 23 March 2019. To prevent a repeat of the last week riots, French authorities have banned demonstrations in a large area in the west of Paris, including the Champs-Elysees. Yellow vest organizers called on social media for protests in different places in Paris, including the Trocadero square. EPA/CHRISTOPHE PETIT TESSON Reuters Life in the Algerian coastal city of Annaba grows harder by the year, with government austerity measures squeezing public services, such as healthcare and education, to make up for a collapse in oil and gas revenues. But sunshine is plentiful in the city of 350,000. The beaches teem with youthful energy during the warm months, and daily life is not at all unbearable. Yet for another week, 27-year-old high-school English teacher Djihed Sadaoui took to the streets with his friends and relatives to demand an end not just to the presidency of 82-year-old Abdelaziz Bouteflika, the countrys ailing, wheelchair-bound leader, but the removal from power of all the obscure figures using the man as a front for ruling the country. He was among hundreds of thousands of others demonstrating for a fifth week on Friday, despite the grey skies and cold rain biting at the south Mediterranean coast. They are stupidising us, if this verb exists, he tells The Independent. Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Show all 14 1 /14 Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Protests against President Bouteflika in Algiers on March 15 Reuters Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Protesters march in Algiers to demand the resignation of President Bouteflika on March 15 Reuters Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Protesters carrying the national flag protest against President Boueflika on the Republique Plaza on March 17 AP Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Algerians march during a protest in Algiers on March 15 AP Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Students protest in Algiers on March 19 Reuters Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Protesters hang national flags atop a building in Algiers on March 15 Reuters Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Algerian doctors protest against President Bouteflika on March 19 in Algiers EPA Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Algerians demand the resignation of President Bouteflika in a protest on March 15 in Algiers AFP/Getty Algerians protest against President Bouteflika A woman holds a placard with the photo of President Bouteflika during a protest on March 15 in Algiers AP Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Algerians demand the resignation of President Bouteflika in a protest on March 15 in Algiers AFP/Getty Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Algerian doctors march against President Bouteflika on March 19 in Algiers EPA Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Algerians take part in a demonstration against President Bouteflika on March 19 in Algiers AFP/Getty Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Algerian doctors protest against President Bouteflika on March 19 in Algiers AFP/Getty Algerians protest against President Bouteflika Employees of the Algerian Ministry of Vocational Education and Training protest against President Bouteflika in Algiers on March 18 EPA This is why we say in Arabic dont make donkeys of the people. Life is worse than before, but some feel that there are things more important than healthcare, money or food. We are not hungry people. We need ethical leaders, not corrupt ones. Live-streaming video feeds showed protests erupting in the capital, Algiers, and at least 12 other cities across the nation of 42 million. The protests were initially sparked by the Mr Bouteflikas announcement that he would seek a fifth term after 20 years as president. Algerians across the board were outraged Mr Bouteflika has not delivered a public address since 2012, a year before he suffered a massive stroke. He spends much of his time in hospitals in France and Switzerland, and many Algerians suspect his written statements and policy decisions are being managed by a shadowy clique that includes his brother, Said, a coterie of powerful and corrupt business leaders and the military officers who have dominated the country since its 1962 independence from France. In fact, who actually runs Algeria who is le pouvoir, or the power is a question that few can answer, and that has been an Algerian frustration for more than six-and-a-half decades. Now, protesters want them gone, preferably by 28 April, when Mr Bouteflikas mandate officially ends. We want all the system to leave, said Mr Sadaoui. We don't need them. Mohamed Kirat, a professor of mass media at Qatar University who is Algerian, believes it is wealthy businessmen such as Ali Haddad who are le pouvoir Haddad is the head of a influential business lobby. Then there are the close family of Mr Bouteflika and the army General Ahmed Gaid Salah, the 79-year-old chief of staff, is particularly powerful. That is the pouvoir for the protesters, he said. They want to get rid of all of them. They want radical change. They dont want to hear from Bouteflika or his brothers. They dont want to hear from Haddad. And they dont want to hear from the generals. Mr Sadaoui also pointed to the generational divide, describing Algerias leaders as octogenarians who dont want to retire and leave opportunities for younger people. But the protests and anger at the government cut across all Algerias social divides and appear to be unfolding in every region, drawing in Arabs, ethnic Amazigh or berbers, men and women, leftists, Islamists, and liberals. Algerian mass demonstrations against Bouteflika regime sees riot police and students join street protest There is no difference between small towns and big cities, said Mr Sadaoui. We all want the same thing. In the past, Algerian authorities have managed to defuse protests with a combination of non-lethal force, payoffs, and promises. But this time, protests have actually gotten larger and wider since Mr Bouteflika announced earlier this month he would step aside, in about a year, after overseeing the drawing up of a new constitution, a referendum and national elections. We are not hungry people. We need ethical leaders, not corrupt ones Djihed Sadaoui Few trust that Mr Bouteflika himself is coming up with the proposals, or that his clique will truly stand aside in accord with the roadmap it has designed. The regime appears to be struggling. This week they sent envoys to Russia, China, and Germany countries from which it buys weapons to shore up support. They are trying to sell the roadmap of Bouteflika to these countries, said Mr Kirat. Theyre trying to internationalise this issue. Protesters will not let up, and foreign countries including Russia appear to be hedging their bets, surprised and overwhelmed by a protest movement that seems to be growing in magnitude. Recommended Abdelaziz Bouteflika has turned Algeria into a necrocracy The mobilisation is not letting up, wrote journalist Nabila Amir in the newspaper El Watan on Thursday. On the contrary, Algerians are increasingly showing anger and impatience at the contempt shown by the Bouteflika clan and their supporters. When the protests first began, Algerian prime minister Ahmed Ouyahia warned that their demonstrations could lead the country into a bloody civil war. That is the pouvoir for the protesters. They want to get rid of all of them. They want radical change Mohamed Kirat, professor of mass media at Qatar University Mr Ouyahias words were taken as an insult given he has been a fixture of the Bouteflika regime. The most important thing for us was that it wasnt our president talking to us, said Mr Sadaoui. This is our problem this is what the world does not understand. Can you, as a citizen who has rights, accept not to see or hear your president for more than five years? The self-styled Isis caliphate, which once stretched for thousands of miles and ruled over millions of people, has been declared defeated. The end for the terrorist state came in the village of Baghouz, in Syrias eastern Deir ez-Zor province, following a months-long final battle. Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and 100 per cent territorial defeat of Isis, said Mustafa Bali, spokesman of the US-backed group. Mr Bali added: On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible. Theresa May praised the immense courage of the UK military and our allies following the announcement. We will continue to do what is necessary to protect the British people, our Allies and partners from the threat Daesh poses, the prime minister said. Timeline of the Isis caliphate Show all 19 1 /19 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Timeline of the Isis caliphate ISIS began as a group by the merging of extremist organisations ISI and al-Nusra in 2013. Following clashes, Syrian rebels captured the ISIS headquarters in Aleppo in January 2014 (pictured) AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi declared the creation of a caliphate in Mosul on 27 June 2014 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis conquered the Kurdish towns of Sinjar and Zumar in August 2014, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Pictured are a group of Yazidi Kurds who have fled Rex Timeline of the Isis caliphate On September 2 2014 Isis released a video depicting the beheading of US journalist Steven Sotloff. On September 13 they released another video showing the execution of British aid worker David Haines Timeline of the Isis caliphate The US launched its first airstrikes against Isis in Syria on 23 September 2014. Here Lt Gen William C Mayville Jnr speaks about the bombing campaign in the wake of the first strikes Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis militants sit atop a hill planted with their flag in the Syrian town of Kobani on 6 October 2014. They had been advancing on Kobani since mid-September and by now was in control of the citys entrance and exit points AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Residents of the border village of Alizar keep guard day and night as they wait in fear of mortar fire from Isis who have occupied the nearby city of Kobani Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Smoke rises following a US airstrike on Kobani, 28 October 2014 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate YPG fighters raise a flag as they reclaim Kobani on 26 January 2015 VOA Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis seized the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra on 20 May 2015. This image show the city from above days after its capture by Isis Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces are stationed on a hill above the town of Sinjar as smoke rises following US airstrikes on 12 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces enter Sinjar after seizing it from Isis control on 13 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi government forces make the victory sign as they retake the city of Fallujah from ISIS on 26 June 2016 Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi forces battle with Isis for the city of Mosul on 30 June 2017 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of the Iraqi federal police raise flags in Mosul on 8 July 2017. On the following day, Iraqi prime minister Haider Al Abadi declares victory over Isis in Mosul Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Female fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim Square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Trucks full of women and children arrive from the last Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor, Syria in January 2019 They were among the last civilians to be living in the ISIS caliphate, by this time reduced to just two small villages in Syrias Deir ez-Zor Richard Hall/The Independent Timeline of the Isis caliphate Zikia Ibrahim, 28, with her two-year-old son and 8-month-old daughter, after fleeing the Isis caliphate, on Saturday 26 January 2019 Richard Hall/The Independent French President Emmanuel Macron said that a major danger to our country is now eliminated, yet the threat remains and the fight against terrorist groups must continue. Britain and France were junior partners in the US-led coalition that helped turn the tide against Isis when it joined the fight in 2014. In a later statement, Donald Trump said Washington would remain vigilant until the group is finally defeated wherever it operates. To all of the young people on the internet who felt attracted by Isis propaganda, he said: Think instead about having a great life. The last fight was one of the toughest yet. After years of steadily clawing back territory from Isis across northeast Syria, in September the SDF surrounded the last pocket of Isis control in an isolated string of villages along the eastern banks of the Euphrates river. These hamlets became the last holdout for the groups most hardened fighters and leaders. With nowhere else to run, many decided to fight to the bitter end, leading to massive casualties on both sides. The SDF said Saturday that it had lost 11,000 fighters over the course of the campaign. The final advance was slowed by the presence of thousands of civilians. The last few months has seen an exodus from the Baghouz area. Trapped in an ever-shrinking patch of land, they were without food and under constant bombardment. Some 60,000 people filed out of the dwindling enclave, nearly half of whom were surrendering supporters of Isis, including some 5,000 fighters. Many were foreigners from Iraq, Kazakhstan, Russia and even France. In the end, a small band of Isis fighters were cornered in a tent camp on the edge of Baghouz. Over the course of a few weeks, the camp was largely destroyed by the fighting and intense bombing. It was an ignoble end for caliphates citizens, who came in their thousands to join what they thought was a religious paradise. Isis is likely to remain a potent force in both Iraq and Syria for some time, but the loss of its territory marks a huge military defeat and a blow in morale for the worlds most powerful jihadist group. The war to defeat Isis brought the bitterest of enemies together and cost tens of thousands of lives. A young girl pulls her belongings after arriving from the last Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor, Syria, on Saturday 26 January (Richard Hall/The Independent) The Isis caliphate was declared on 29 June, 2014. Isis fighters had just swept across northern Syria and Iraq in a blistering offensive that shocked the world, sending the US-funded Iraqi army fleeing. Days later, the groups secretive leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, emerged from the shadows to declare himself leader of the new Islamic State. In a carefully stage-managed address, he called on Muslims around the world to join his holy war. This is a duty on Muslims that has been lost for centuries, he said from the steps of the al-Nuri Mosque in Mosul. Thousands of sympathisers and supporters from all over the world travelled to Syria and Iraq, including some 900 Britons. Even those who didnt fight played an important role. Those muhajireen were a powerful recruiting tool for others to join. They glorified life in the caliphate through social media posts, and celebrated violence against non-Muslims and other perceived enemies. With control over the Syrian city of Raqqa and Iraqs Mosul, Isis ruled over more than 34,000 square miles. In a short space of time, it managed to create the structure of a functional proto-state, which made billions from exporting oil, taxes, extortion and kidnap. Isis has become extraordinarily adept at surviving through adversity Charles Lister, senior fellow at the Middle East Institute From its inception, the state carried out violence on a grand scale. In August 2014, its fighters carried out its most heinous crime. After overrunning the town of Sinjar in northern Iraq, fighters massacred nearly 10,000 civilians belonging to the Yazidi faith, whose members Isis deemed heretics. Some 7,000 were kidnapped by the group, with thousands of women being taken as sex slaves. Close to half of those women remain unaccounted for. The United Nations later declared those acts a genocide against the Yazidi people. But Isis atrocities werent reserved for any one group thousands of Shias, Christians and Sunnis were murdered in its reign of terror. Mass graves litter the landscape from Raqqa to Mosul. The true number of Isis victims may never be known. An SDF fighter hands out bread to women and children after they arrive from Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor today (Richard Hall/The Independent) The groups barbarity had mobilised the most powerful armies in the world, as well as a mosaic of local forces and fighters. The Yazidi genocide led to the intervention of the US and other nations, who formed a 79-member coalition to defeat the group. Over the next few years, US airpower was used to devastating effect to force Isis from its strongholds. Arab tribes fought alongside Kurdish leftists in northern Syria. The Kurdish peshmerga coordinated with the Iraqi army to recapture Mosul. Russian and US forces shared intelligence. At the end, Isis found itself surrounded on one side by the Syrian army, and the other by US-backed forces. In fact, the very summer that Isis declared its caliphate was when the organisation peaked. A turning point came with the battle for the Kurdish Syrian city of Kobani, on the border with Turkey. In September 2014, Isis laid siege to the city and sent more than 100,000 people fleeing. But Peoples Protection Units (YPG), a hitherto relatively unknown Kurdish militia, put up a fierce resistance backed for the first time by massive aerial support from the newly formed anti-Isis coalition, led by the US. The YPGs women fighters played a key role in the battle, and others after it. By March 2015, Kobani had been recaptured, and a model for how to defeat the terror group had been formed. Major battles in Mosul and Raqqa followed the same pattern. Local forces led the fight on the ground, backed by overwhelming air power from the coalition. This method was successful in removing Isis, but it came at a terrible cost. The coalition launched more than 30,000 airstrikes during Operation Inherent Resolve, laying waste to towns and cities in the process. The coalition conceded responsibility for 1,190 civilian deaths, but the independent monitors put the number much higher. Airwars, a group that monitored civilian casualties caused by the coalition, estimated the true number of deaths could be higher than 11,000. Female fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) gather during a celebration at the iconic Al-Naim square in Raqqa in October 2017, after retaking the city from IS (Getty) (AFP/Getty) And still, the fight is not yet over. Even now in the throes of victory, the same fighters who crushed the caliphate are preparing for a different battle against the group. Isis is already morphing back into an insurgent group, one with the capability to cause havoc and death in the areas it used to control. Isis is a terrorist organisation thats existed longer without territory than with it, said Charles Lister, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute and author of a book on the jihadist group. Its become extraordinarily adept at surviving through adversity; and its very existence is due almost entirely to underlying dynamics that remain as bad today as they were in years past in fact, some of those conditions have worsened. To suggest Isis is defeated now would be the height of hubris. Aghiad al-Kheder, a former resident of Deir ez-Zor and citizen activist who lived under Isis, said he feared the group would be back in the near future. This happened before in Iraq. Everyone said the Islamic State had been defeated in 2007, but it returned. They have only been eliminated geographically, he said. We have to think about the ideas Isis left behind, and the children who no longer know what is right and what is wrong. Not only that, but the massive destruction wrought by the campaign may have helped the group gain more followers, he added. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events That threat will not be limited to Iraq and Syria, either. Alex Younger, the head of MI6, said that surviving foreign Isis members seeking to return home will present a major security challenge in the years ahead. They are likely to have acquired both the skills and connections that make them potentially very dangerous and also experienced extreme radicalisation, he said. That fact needs to be uppermost in our minds as we approach this admittedly extremely complex and difficult problem. Public safety is the first thing that we will consider. One Kurdish commander recently told The Independent that some of his unit are already switching to counter-terrorism tasks in areas retaken from Isis. That is a concern for tomorrow. Today, hundreds of thousands of people whose lives were touched by the violence and bigotry of the Isis caliphate will celebrate its demise. Up to its dying days the self-declared Islamic State has retained the ability to top the news agenda, even as its fighters were losing their last battle for bomb-shattered villages in the deserts of eastern Syria. When their spokesman promised retaliation for the massacre of Muslims in the Christchurch mosques his threat was taken seriously. Given the record of Isis atrocities it is not surprising that nobody can discount its ability to exact revenge through existing adherents, new converts or those using its name to spread terror. This is not just western paranoia: in Syria and Iraq people speak continually of Isis sleeper cells waiting to emerge and exact revenge. There is a largely sterile debate about whether or not Isis whose territory once stretched from the outskirts of Baghdad to the hills overlooking the Mediterranean is dead and buried, as Donald Trump claims. Could it be reborn if the pressure against it is relaxed? The answer is simple enough: Isis is defeated as a state apparatus that once ruled eight million people, but it can persist as a terrorist and guerrilla organisation. I was in Baghdad in June 2014 when Isis was advancing south towards the capital, capturing cities and towns like Tikrit and Baiji with scarcely a shot being fired. The rout of the Iraqi army seemed total and for several days there was no defensive lines between us and Isis advance patrols. As many as 1,700 Shia air force cadets were massacred amid the ruins of Saddam Husseins old palaces on the banks of the Tigris river near Tikrit. Timeline of the Isis caliphate Show all 19 1 /19 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Timeline of the Isis caliphate ISIS began as a group by the merging of extremist organisations ISI and al-Nusra in 2013. Following clashes, Syrian rebels captured the ISIS headquarters in Aleppo in January 2014 (pictured) AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi declared the creation of a caliphate in Mosul on 27 June 2014 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis conquered the Kurdish towns of Sinjar and Zumar in August 2014, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Pictured are a group of Yazidi Kurds who have fled Rex Timeline of the Isis caliphate On September 2 2014 Isis released a video depicting the beheading of US journalist Steven Sotloff. On September 13 they released another video showing the execution of British aid worker David Haines Timeline of the Isis caliphate The US launched its first airstrikes against Isis in Syria on 23 September 2014. Here Lt Gen William C Mayville Jnr speaks about the bombing campaign in the wake of the first strikes Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis militants sit atop a hill planted with their flag in the Syrian town of Kobani on 6 October 2014. They had been advancing on Kobani since mid-September and by now was in control of the citys entrance and exit points AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Residents of the border village of Alizar keep guard day and night as they wait in fear of mortar fire from Isis who have occupied the nearby city of Kobani Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Smoke rises following a US airstrike on Kobani, 28 October 2014 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate YPG fighters raise a flag as they reclaim Kobani on 26 January 2015 VOA Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis seized the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra on 20 May 2015. This image show the city from above days after its capture by Isis Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces are stationed on a hill above the town of Sinjar as smoke rises following US airstrikes on 12 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces enter Sinjar after seizing it from Isis control on 13 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi government forces make the victory sign as they retake the city of Fallujah from ISIS on 26 June 2016 Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi forces battle with Isis for the city of Mosul on 30 June 2017 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of the Iraqi federal police raise flags in Mosul on 8 July 2017. On the following day, Iraqi prime minister Haider Al Abadi declares victory over Isis in Mosul Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Female fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim Square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Trucks full of women and children arrive from the last Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor, Syria in January 2019 They were among the last civilians to be living in the ISIS caliphate, by this time reduced to just two small villages in Syrias Deir ez-Zor Richard Hall/The Independent Timeline of the Isis caliphate Zikia Ibrahim, 28, with her two-year-old son and 8-month-old daughter, after fleeing the Isis caliphate, on Saturday 26 January 2019 Richard Hall/The Independent Isis had 100 days of stunning victories in Iraq and Syria but its emirs were never to reach the same level of success again. Instead of focusing all their forces on seizing Baghdad, they moved north and attacked the autonomous and near independent Iraqi Kurdish enclave. The US and its allies started using their devastating air power. If Isis ever had a chance of complete victory, it came and went very quickly. The success of its blitzkrieg tactics in 2014 depended in part on Isiss ability to spread terror through the internet by broadcasting its atrocities. Iraqi families would watch them and tell their soldier sons to desert the army and keep out of the fighting. The unexpected capture of Mosul in 2014 gave the impression to many Sunni Arabs in Iraq and Syria that the forces of the newly declared caliphate were divinely inspired. Isis commanders certainly believed this. But now with obliteration on the battlefield Isis can no longer make any convincing claim for divine inspiration or support. One of the great attractions of Isis that it had almost magical powers guaranteeing victory has gone. For the eight million Iraqi and Syrians whom Isis once controlled, its rule brought nothing but death and destruction. Almost all of Raqqa, its Syrian de facto capital, and much of Mosul, its Iraqi counterpart, are in ruins. Tens of thousands of Sunni Arabs in both countries have died in the relentless US-led bomb and artillery bombardments that finally overwhelmed Isis defences. But could the thousands of dispersed Isis fighters that the Pentagon says are hiding out in the vast deserts and semi-deserts between Syria and Iraq reorganise and stage a convincing counter-attack? After all, the US Surge in Iraq in between 2007 and 2009 was trumpeted at the time as marking the final defeat of al-Qaeda in there, which was Isis under another name. Isis commanders are reported to draw inspiration from that period, arguing that they have come back before and they will do so again. It is not very likely that favourable circumstances will once more combine in such a way that Isis could relaunch itself. It has lost the advantage of surprise and has too many enemies who may not like each other but know what Isis can do given half a chance. In 2014 it enjoyed a certain tolerance and even support from Sunni states like Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar which is no longer there. But this not quite the same as saying that Isis is finished. The deserts of Syria and Iraq are vast and impossible to police in their entirety. Occupation forces, be they Kurds in Raqqa or Iraqi Shia troops in Sunni parts of Iraq, are resented and often hated by Sunni Arabs and Isis could benefit from their disaffection. And even if Isis does not regain such popularity as it once enjoyed in these places, its reputation for homicidal fury means that it does not have to do very much to spread terror. It has lost the advantage of surprise and has too many enemies who may not like each other but know what Isis can do given half a chance Patrick Cockburn Isis as Isis has probably had its day. But could it transmute into something else? The defeat of Isis does not mean the defeat of al-Qaeda of which Isis was only a single clone. In north-west Syria Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), despite several changes of name, has been for over a year the largest jihadi or al-Qaeda type movement in the country. In western Idlib, northern Hama and western Aleppo provinces it has displaced other armed opposition groups. It now may have as many as 50,000 fighters and control three million people. HTS might also establish itself as an ally of Turkey in northern Syria which would allow the al-Qaeda brand to live on. But one should not let such possibilities to run riot and pretend that the old al-Qaeda formula of making war with suicide attacks as acts of faith has the destructive power it once did. President Trump is largely right in his claims that Islamic State is destroyed even if he is grossly, even ludicrously, inflating his own role in its demise. How was Isis defeated? The fight to defeat the caliphate brought together the bitterest of enemies, and cost tens of thousands of lives. By the end, the terror group could count among its battlefield opponents two military superpowers in the US and Russia, along with the Syrian army, the Syrian armed opposition, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, the Kurdish Peshmerga, the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) the Iraqi army, a number of Iraqi Shia militias, Turkey and a global coalition of some 70 countries. The battle was not always coordinated between these powers, but it is a sign of the brutality of Isis that they all found common cause to fight it. In 2014, the group carried out one of its worst atrocities when it overran the town of Sinjar in northern Iraq. The town and the surrounding area is the traditional homeland of people from the Yazidi faith, whom Isis considers heretics. Isis fighters slaughtered thousands of civilians and took thousands of women as sex slaves. The UN would later categorise the attacks as a genocide. That terrible crime, and the threat it posed to other areas of Iraq, prompted the US to intervene against Isis. In August 2014, as thousands of Yazidi civilians were surrounded by Isis fighters, the US launched the first airstrikes against the group. It would be the first action in a long US-led coalition involvement that would prove decisive in defeating the Isis caliphate. Over the next few years, thousands of coalition airstrikes most the vast majority of which were carried out by the US would clear the path for local forces on the ground in Iraq and Syria to recapture ground from Isis. The coalition carried out more than 30,000 airstrikes across both countries. But while they were extremely effective, this tactic left a trail of destruction. The cities of Mosul and Raqqa, and many others, still lie in ruins. The toll on civilians was staggering. Airwars, an independent organisation that tracks casualties casualties caused by the US-led air campaign, estimates that as many as 12,000 civilians were killed in the bombardment. Local sources indicate the number could be as high as 30,000. After the SDF announced in 2019 that Isis had been defeated, having lost their final area of control in Syria, we take a look at the group's origins and its defining moments. At its peak, Isis controlled a vast swathe of territory across Syria and Iraq roughly the size of Britain, with a population of some 10 million. Over 40,000 are thought to have emigrated to the caliphate with the jihadists brutal and gruesome tactics inspiring numerous terrorist attacks around the globe. Where did the group come from and which acts defined its reign? 2004 Abu Musab al-Zarqawi establishes al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI). AQI carries out attacks against the countrys majority Shia community in the hope of sparking a sectarian war. Zarqawi had moved to Iraq a year earlier - along with thousands of other insurgent volunteers - to fight against American and British forces that had invaded the country. The Jordanian became an internationally recognised name after Colin Powell mentioned him by name during a speech to the United Nations in 2003. Timeline of the Isis caliphate Show all 19 1 /19 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Timeline of the Isis caliphate ISIS began as a group by the merging of extremist organisations ISI and al-Nusra in 2013. Following clashes, Syrian rebels captured the ISIS headquarters in Aleppo in January 2014 (pictured) AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi declared the creation of a caliphate in Mosul on 27 June 2014 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis conquered the Kurdish towns of Sinjar and Zumar in August 2014, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Pictured are a group of Yazidi Kurds who have fled Rex Timeline of the Isis caliphate On September 2 2014 Isis released a video depicting the beheading of US journalist Steven Sotloff. On September 13 they released another video showing the execution of British aid worker David Haines Timeline of the Isis caliphate The US launched its first airstrikes against Isis in Syria on 23 September 2014. Here Lt Gen William C Mayville Jnr speaks about the bombing campaign in the wake of the first strikes Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis militants sit atop a hill planted with their flag in the Syrian town of Kobani on 6 October 2014. They had been advancing on Kobani since mid-September and by now was in control of the citys entrance and exit points AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Residents of the border village of Alizar keep guard day and night as they wait in fear of mortar fire from Isis who have occupied the nearby city of Kobani Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Smoke rises following a US airstrike on Kobani, 28 October 2014 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate YPG fighters raise a flag as they reclaim Kobani on 26 January 2015 VOA Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis seized the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra on 20 May 2015. This image show the city from above days after its capture by Isis Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces are stationed on a hill above the town of Sinjar as smoke rises following US airstrikes on 12 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces enter Sinjar after seizing it from Isis control on 13 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi government forces make the victory sign as they retake the city of Fallujah from ISIS on 26 June 2016 Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi forces battle with Isis for the city of Mosul on 30 June 2017 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of the Iraqi federal police raise flags in Mosul on 8 July 2017. On the following day, Iraqi prime minister Haider Al Abadi declares victory over Isis in Mosul Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Female fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim Square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Trucks full of women and children arrive from the last Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor, Syria in January 2019 They were among the last civilians to be living in the ISIS caliphate, by this time reduced to just two small villages in Syrias Deir ez-Zor Richard Hall/The Independent Timeline of the Isis caliphate Zikia Ibrahim, 28, with her two-year-old son and 8-month-old daughter, after fleeing the Isis caliphate, on Saturday 26 January 2019 Richard Hall/The Independent June - October 2006 Zarqawi is killed in an US airstrike in Iraq on 7 June, and Abu Ayyub al-Masri becomes the new leader of AQI. Masri announces the creation of Islamic State of Iraq (ISI) and appoints Abu Omar al-Baghdadi as the new leader. April 2010 Abu Omar al-Baghdadi and Masri are killed in a joint US-Iraqi operation and Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi becomes the new leader of ISI. April 2013 Baghdadi says that his group will now be known as Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Isil or Isis) after it absorbs an al Qaeda-backed militant group in Syria, Jabhat al-Nusra, also known as the Nusra Front. January 2014 Isis takes control of Syrias Raqqa and declares it their capital. February 2014 Al-Qaeda cuts ties with Isis after infighting between Isis and the Nusra Front. June 2014 In the groups largest offensive to date, Isis takes control of Mosul and Tikrit. Iraqi forces manage to retake most of Tikrit with the support of Iranian forces but the UN warns that the fighting had displaced more than one million Iraqis. The jihadists continue to make territorial gains and seize the strategic border crossing between Syrias Deir ez-Zor and Iraq. Having lost Mosul, Iraq asks the US to launch airstrikes against the militants. 29 June 2014 Baghdadi announces the establishment of the caliphate from the pulpit of the Great Nouri mosque in Mosul, rebranding the group as Islamic State. Who is Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi? August 2014 Isis takes over Sinjar and Zumar in Iraq, killing and abducting thousands of Yazidis. An estimated 5,000 Yazidi men were thought to have been killed and around 7,000 Yazidi women were sold to Isis fighters as sex slaves. The UN later recognises the jihadists attack on the Yazidis as a genocide. US President Barack Obama then announces the beginning of airstrikes against Isis in Iraq. Isis begins to release a series of videos depicting the execution of a number of foreigners, including American journalist James Foley and British NGO worker David Haines. September 2014 The US starts bombing in Syria. Over the next year the US conducts over 8,000 airstrikes in Iraq and Syria. October 2014 The Pentagon names the campaign against the jihadists Operation Inherent Resolve. January 2015 Isis network expands and the group is said to have affiliates in at least eight countries. Under the cover of US airstrikes, SDF fighters force Isis out of the Syrian town of Kobani after a four month long campaign. February 2015 Isis releases a video showing Jordanian military pilot Moaz al Kasasbeh being burnt alive, sparking widescale protests across the country. March 2015 Isis-linked militants bomb two mosques in Yemens Sanaa, killing 137. April 2015 Isis posts a video depicting its Libyan branch executing dozens of Ethiopian Christians. May 2015 Isis takes control over Iraqs Ramadi and Syrias ancient city of Palmyra. The militants Libya affiliate takes Sirte. June 2015 Isis claims responsibility for the attack on the Tunisian resort of Sousse, where 38 people were killed, including 30 Brits. September 2015 Russia begins airstrikes in Syria, which it claims is a bid to fight Isis. The US accuses Russia of striking opposition groups and civilians. November 2015 Isis carries out a number of attacks across Paris, killing 130 people. France begins to ramp up the number of airstrikes against Isis in Syria. Meanwhile in Iraq, Kurdish forces retake Sinjar. December 2015 Iraqi forces seize Ramadi from Isis. June 2016 Iraqi forces, with the help of US and coalition airstrikes, retake the strategic city of Fallujah after a month-long campaign. The city was under Isis control since 2014. July 2016 An Isis suicide bomb attack on a busy shopping street in Baghdad kills over 200 people. Carried out during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, it was the jihadists most deadliest bomb attack on civilians. August 2016 US-backed forces in Syria retake the key north-eastern city of Manbij. Recommended Thousands of civilians freed from Isis as militants lose Syrian city October 2016 Iraq and US-led coalition forces begin their campaign to liberate Mosul. December 2016 Libyan forces liberate Sirte with the help of US airstrikes. December 2016 Isis manages to retake Palmyra from Syrian government forces, despite intensive Russian bombing against them. Despite territorial losses in Iraq and Syria, Isis carried out more than 1,400 attacks and killed more than 7,000 people in 2016 a 20 per cent increase from 2015 according to a 2017 report by the University of Maryland. January 2017 Isis claims responsibility for an attack at the Reina nightclub in Istanbul, when a gunman opened fire on people celebrating New Years Eve and killed 39. Iraqi forces liberate eastern Mosul from Isis, 100 days since the start of their campaign. Iraq PM Haider al-Abadi hails 'big victory' in Mosul February 2017 A suicide bomber attacks a Sufi shrine in southern Pakistan, killing at least 72 - including 30 children - and wounding dozens more. Isis claims responsibility. May 2017 Isis claims responsibility for a suicide bombing attack at an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena, which killed 22, including children, and injured 59. July 2017 Iraqi forces liberate Mosul. In what Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al Abadi called an official acknowledgement of defeat, Isis blows up the Grand al Nuri Mosque the place where al-Baghdadi declared the caliphate in 2014 and the al Hadba minaret. September 2017 A bomb explodes but fails to detonate on a morning commuter train at Parsons Green station in London. Isis claims responsibility, but British and US government sources later say there is no evidence to link the jihadist group to the incident. October 2017 The US-backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces liberate Raqqa, the caliphates former capital, after a four-month long campaign. The defeat of Isis in Raqqa represents a critical breakthrough in our worldwide campaign to defeat Isis and its wicked ideology, US President Donald Trump says. US officials say that some 60,000 Isis militants have been killed since 2014. December 2017 Abadi says Isis has been defeated in Iraq. The coalition estimates that fewer than 1,000 militants remained in Iraq and Syria just one third of the figure from three weeks before. It has now lost 95 per cent of its territory. July 2018 At least 200 people are killed in a suicide bombing and other attacks in Sweida in Syria. Isis claims responsibility. August 2018 Isis releases a 55-minute audio recording that they say is from Baghdadi. The man in the recording admits Isis groups are losing and urges followers to continue the fight. Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Show all 14 1 /14 Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Trucks full of women and children arrive from the last Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor, Syria Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Zikia Ibrahim, 28, with her two-year-old son and 8-month-old daughter, after fleeing the Isis caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Men who fled the last Isis-held area of Syria line up to be questioned by American and Kurdish intelligence officials Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate A young girl pulls her belongings after arriving Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate An SDF fighter hands out bread to women and children after they arrive Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Sita Ghazzar, 70, after fleeing from the last Isis-held territory in Syria Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate A family from Russia who recently fled the last Isis-held area of Syria Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent December 2018 In a shock announcement, Trump announces that US forces will be withdrawn from Syria and claims that Isis has been defeated. February 2019 SDF announces final battle against Isis. British-born Shamima Begum the teenager who left Bethnal Green to join Isis is found in al-Hol camp in Syria, sparking a nationwide debate on what the UK should do with returning jihadists. UK home secretary Sajid Javid strips the 19-year-old of her British citizenship. A few weeks later, her newborn son Jarrah dies. March 2019 The British government claims that just one civilian was harmed in RAF airstrikes that killed more than 4,000 enemy fighters in Iraq and Syria. US President Donald Trump meanwhile scraps a policy requiring US intelligence officials to publish the number of civilians killed in drone strikes outside active war zones. SDF say they have made "significant" advances against Isis, and that the militants are now trapped in small pockets next to the river". April 2019 Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi appears on video for the first time in nearly five years. In a speech released by Isis media arm, al-Baghdadi addressed the groups territorial defeat in Syria. October 2019 On 5 October, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warns Turkey is preparing a full-scale invasion of northern Syria. Days later, the Trump administration announces that it will withdraw US forces from the area and permit the invasion to take place, which leads to hundreds of Isis prisoners escaping during the offensive. October 2019 Al-Baghdadi is reportedly killed by a US military raid in northern Syria. Officials from several countries say US special forces carried out an attack targeting the Isis leader, who has led the terrorist group since 2010. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the Isis leader who remains free while his caliphate is in its death throes, is yesterdays man who is not a particularly relevant person anymore, according to the deputy commander of US led international forces in Syria and Iraq. But Major General Chris Ghika, the most senior British officer with the coalition, warned that it would be a mistake to think that the Islamist group is leaderless and rudderless and wanted to stress that new leaders are emerging to take over the mantle and continue on a terrorist war of attrition. I dont know where Baghdadi is, if I knew where he was I would do something about it. I think he might be in Iraq or Syria, he might be outside the area, said the commander. The new leaders are less experienced, less capable than the people of years ago: those people have been killed or captured. The organisation is weaker, but there are still people there to take on the leadership function as we have seen many times in organisations such as these, and the organisation is active, he added. We have low hundreds of fighters left in Syria and low tens of thousands in Iraq, but not all of them are fighters there, there is a support network, support staff, sympathisers. Timeline of the Isis caliphate Show all 19 1 /19 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Timeline of the Isis caliphate ISIS began as a group by the merging of extremist organisations ISI and al-Nusra in 2013. Following clashes, Syrian rebels captured the ISIS headquarters in Aleppo in January 2014 (pictured) AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi declared the creation of a caliphate in Mosul on 27 June 2014 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis conquered the Kurdish towns of Sinjar and Zumar in August 2014, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Pictured are a group of Yazidi Kurds who have fled Rex Timeline of the Isis caliphate On September 2 2014 Isis released a video depicting the beheading of US journalist Steven Sotloff. On September 13 they released another video showing the execution of British aid worker David Haines Timeline of the Isis caliphate The US launched its first airstrikes against Isis in Syria on 23 September 2014. Here Lt Gen William C Mayville Jnr speaks about the bombing campaign in the wake of the first strikes Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis militants sit atop a hill planted with their flag in the Syrian town of Kobani on 6 October 2014. They had been advancing on Kobani since mid-September and by now was in control of the citys entrance and exit points AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Residents of the border village of Alizar keep guard day and night as they wait in fear of mortar fire from Isis who have occupied the nearby city of Kobani Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Smoke rises following a US airstrike on Kobani, 28 October 2014 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate YPG fighters raise a flag as they reclaim Kobani on 26 January 2015 VOA Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis seized the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra on 20 May 2015. This image show the city from above days after its capture by Isis Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces are stationed on a hill above the town of Sinjar as smoke rises following US airstrikes on 12 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces enter Sinjar after seizing it from Isis control on 13 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi government forces make the victory sign as they retake the city of Fallujah from ISIS on 26 June 2016 Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi forces battle with Isis for the city of Mosul on 30 June 2017 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of the Iraqi federal police raise flags in Mosul on 8 July 2017. On the following day, Iraqi prime minister Haider Al Abadi declares victory over Isis in Mosul Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Female fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim Square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Trucks full of women and children arrive from the last Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor, Syria in January 2019 They were among the last civilians to be living in the ISIS caliphate, by this time reduced to just two small villages in Syrias Deir ez-Zor Richard Hall/The Independent Timeline of the Isis caliphate Zikia Ibrahim, 28, with her two-year-old son and 8-month-old daughter, after fleeing the Isis caliphate, on Saturday 26 January 2019 Richard Hall/The Independent While Isis fighters have been battling it out in the last sliver of the so-called Islamic state, attacks are being carried out by the group elsewhere in Syria and Iraq, said Maj Gen Ghika, adding: One only has to look at the IEDs [improvised explosive devices], shootings and assassinations to see they stay a threat. Britain and the west remain in danger from terrorist attacks. British jihadists held in prison by the Kurdish-led SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) has reduced the number of British people who had fought for IS [Islamic State] who are returning to Britain to carry out attacks but we dont know whether the fall of the caliphate is going to substantially increase or decrease the danger from terrorism, said Maj Gen Ghika. The British government will need to make up its mind about what to do with UK citizens who have joined Isis and partners and children they might have with them, and look at options such as whether the British military has a role in bringing back British citizens, said Maj Gen Ghika. Home secretary Sajid Javid has been forced to defend his decision to strip Shamima Begum of her British citizenship, after she travelled to Isis territory as a 15-year-old and married a Dutch jihadist there. Ms Begums newborn baby then died in the SDF-run camp in Syria where the teenager is being held, a stain on the conscience of the UK government, according to the shadow home secretary Diane Abbott. A lawyer representing her family said they would be launching a legal challenge against the stripping of her British citizenship. Each country must clearly decide its a sovereign national decision, on whether they take their people back. The SDF are very clear that the prisoners they hold, they will continue to hold. Now the countries have to say what they want to do, said Maj Gen Ghika during a visit to London. Speaking of charges the returnees may face, Maj Gen Ghika said: We collect evidence on all Isis fighters committing atrocities in the battlefield. If we find the persons responsible then in future there will be charges to follow. But the evidence-gathering activities have been difficult to conduct because of the situation on the ground. The operation is going slowly because the SDF is taking huge care to avoid unnecessary collateral damage, he said, speaking in mid-March. So this is something really for the post-conflict environment, individuals of any nation who can be prosecuted under the law. Baghouz: Syrian Democratic Fighters begin final push to recapture the last sliver of territory controlled by ISIS Maj Gen Ghika was sceptical of reports that the SDF would start releasing detainees unless they were repatriated. I dont put that much weight on the claim that they are going to let them all go. I dont get that sense having talked to them, he held. I think they really understand the value of the [prison] population, I think they understand the dramatic gravity of that population. Maj Gen Ghika was travelling to US Central Command in Tampa, Florida, from the UK. Donald Trump had announced the withdrawal of American forces from Syria after declaring victory over Isis. The British officer said the likelihood was of more US troops being left than the figure of 200 which has been mentioned. Contingents of British forces will also remain in the region, Special Forces, trainers for the Iraqi military and warplanes. We will have to address security issues for the foreseeable future, said Maj Gen Ghika. Two airlines popular with British travellers are in difficulties. Jet Airways, a big Indian carrier, is cancelling flights and some entire routes including the recently launched link between Manchester and Mumbai. Meanwhile, Wow Air of Iceland has announced that talks over a potential rescue bid have been called off. The Indian carrier, Jet Airways, has seen two-thirds of its fleet grounded at the insistence of aircraft lessors. Last month, the chief financial officer, Amit Agarwal, told investors that relations with overdue creditors were good: We are working very well with our various stakeholders, be it vendors, lessors, partners in terms of managing on a win-win situation. National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Show all 27 1 /27 National Geographic Traveller Photography competition National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Hong Kong - Cities "Tropical Storm Barijat was just passing over Hong Kong, bringing with it this crepuscular ray that brightened up a part of Kowloon" - Tse Yuk Wai Tse Yuk Wai National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Singapore - Cities "This was taken at the top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore. Its an amazing place, offering breathtaking views of downtown, with people frolicking in the infinity pool in the foreground" - Robert Huberman Robert Huberman National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Kyoto, Japan - People "This 17-year-old girl has been training to become a geisha for the past two years. Until she qualifies, she wears half-painted lips, signalling to her clientele that shes still learning" - Sharon Kynaston Sharon Kynaston National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Kolkata, India - Cities "A taxi driver leans against his yellow Ambassador cab one of the icons of the city reading a newspaper before the day begins" - Annapurna Mellor Annapurna Mellor National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Alaska, USA - Nature "Heavy snow fell one night during my visit to the city of Homer. As I lay in the snow to capture shots of bald eagles, two began squabbling, sending the fresh white powder flying" - Julia Wainwright Julia Wainwright National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Kandy Central Market, Sri Lanka - Food "Everything in a busy market feels magnified all your senses are pushed to the limit presenting an abundance of photographic opportunities" Pablo Borrego National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Marrakesh, Morocco - People "One of the owners of a fabric boutique in Marrakech showed us this almost apocalyptic scene of a worker dyeing wool - it was dirty, hot and a pungent smell filled the air" - Justin Cliffe Justin Cliffe National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Mount Mikeno, Democratic Republic of Congo - Nature "Some of the worlds last mountain gorillas live on the slopes of Mount Mikeno. This is a female from the Humba family, a habituated group that lives near Virungas Bukima station" - Daniel Burton Daniel Burton National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Leh, India - Food "I was walking through the streets of Leh a town in the Indian region of Ladakh when I saw two workers at this bakery, churning out bread from an oven. It felt like an authentic moment in the life of the town" - Marco Anfossi Marco Anfossi National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Skiathos, Greece - Food "This was taken outside a taverna while I was watching fishermen hang octopus out to dry. For me, the image perfectly captures how people live on Skiathos slow and steady, but with love for what they do" - David Fargher David Fargher National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Kampala, Uganda - People "During summer, I visited a village in the Kampala District. I dont know the name of the boy who curiously looked through a hole in the door at me, but suddenly he was there, his eye perfectly framed by the wooden structure" - Mikael Molander Mikael Molander National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Yosemite Valey, USA - Nature "I took this image on a day off from climbing in Yosemite Valley. I spotted two climbers* approaching El Cap Tower it looked like they were lost in a sea of granite" - Alex Palmer *Climbers can just about be spotted in the bottom left of the image Alex Palmer National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Wrangel Island, Russia - Portfolio "The buildings at Doubtful Harbour are decaying slowly. The rangers who work here are tasked with protecting the wildlife in this federally protected nature sanctuary" - Claire Waring Claire Waring National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Wrangel Island, Russia - Portfolio "The buildings at Doubtful Harbour are decaying slowly. The rangers who work here are tasked with protecting the wildlife in this federally protected nature sanctuary" - Claire Waring Claire Waring National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Wrangel Island, Russia - Portfolio "The buildings at Doubtful Harbour are decaying slowly. The rangers who work here are tasked with protecting the wildlife in this federally protected nature sanctuary" - Claire Waring Claire Waring National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Wrangel Island, Russia - Portfolio "The buildings at Doubtful Harbour are decaying slowly. The rangers who work here are tasked with protecting the wildlife in this federally protected nature sanctuary" - Claire Waring Claire Waring National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Wrangel Island, Russia - Portfolio "The buildings at Doubtful Harbour are decaying slowly. The rangers who work here are tasked with protecting the wildlife in this federally protected nature sanctuary" - Claire Waring Claire Waring National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Marrakesh, Morocco - Portfolio "Navigating the narrow streets of the Medina in Marrakech, the local people and their everyday lives are fascinating to watch, with a mix of buyers, sellers, musicians and observers on every corner" - Mick Ryan Mick Ryan National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Marrakesh, Morocco - Portfolio "Navigating the narrow streets of the Medina in Marrakech, the local people and their everyday lives are fascinating to watch, with a mix of buyers, sellers, musicians and observers on every corner" - Mick Ryan Mick Ryan National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Marrakesh, Morocco - Portfolio "Navigating the narrow streets of the Medina in Marrakech, the local people and their everyday lives are fascinating to watch, with a mix of buyers, sellers, musicians and observers on every corner" - Mick Ryan Mick Ryan National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Marrakesh, Morocco - Portfolio "Navigating the narrow streets of the Medina in Marrakech, the local people and their everyday lives are fascinating to watch, with a mix of buyers, sellers, musicians and observers on every corner" - Mick Ryan Mick Ryan National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Marrakesh, Morocco - Portfolio "Navigating the narrow streets of the Medina in Marrakech, the local people and their everyday lives are fascinating to watch, with a mix of buyers, sellers, musicians and observers on every corner" - Mick Ryan Mick Ryan National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Pengzhen, Chengdu, Sichuan, China - Portfolio "Deep in the western suburbs of Sichuan's capital Chengdu, lies Peng Zhen, a town barely touched by the hands of time, and where the shadow of Chairman Mao and his Cultural Revolution still looms large" - Simon Urwin Simon Urwin National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Pengzhen, Chengdu, Sichuan, China - Portfolio Original Communist propaganda featuring Chairman Mao's trademark beneficent smile. Simon Urwin National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Pengzhen, Chengdu, Sichuan, China - Portfolio Qingyuan Xu, Pengzhen's traditional medicine practitioner in his doctor's 'surgery'. Qingyuan, 78, began studying traditional medicine at the age of eight under the tutelage of Master Liu, one of the physicians to Chiang Kai-shek, the former Chinese leader who was ousted by the Communists and forced to flee to Taiwan. Simon Urwin National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Pengzhen, Chengdu, Sichuan, China - Portfolio The town barber awaits customers in his 'salon' Simon Urwin National Geographic Traveller Photography competition Pengzhen, Chengdu, Sichuan, China - Portfolio Lunchtime in the restaurant 'A Heavenly Table', a former Communist canteen which served free food to workers. Simon Urwin But as it falls behind with payments, the owners of its aircraft are demanding that they stay on the ground. Some pilots and engineers say their wages have gone unpaid since this year. The link between Manchester and Jet Airways hub began only in November 2018. At the time the aviation minister, Baroness Sugg said such connections are key to Britains economic future. The five-a-week flights have been abruptly grounded. The last departure of Jet Airways flight 129 from Manchester to Mumbai touched down shortly after midnight on Saturday morning. Subsequent arrivals and departures are shown as cancelled. The airline said: Due to operational reasons, our flight schedule has been impacted. We realise that this has affected our guests travel plans and truly regret the inconvenience. Jet Airways says its customer-support teams are working around the clock to ensure that our guests are re-accommodated on to alternate flights or provided with a full refund. The airlines Twitter feed is full of messages from anxious travellers. Prabhat Singh, whose flight from Delhi to Mumbai on 1 April has been cancelled, wrote: Your numbers dont work. What am I supposed to do? Thats some hard-earned money there. Please have the courtesy to at least reschedule my flight. Jet Airways responded: Our Contact Centre, Guest Relations & Social Media teams are receiving high volumes of queries which may lead to extended wait/response times for some guests. We seek your understanding and support. In its last quarterly results, the airline flew just over 7 million passengers but lost 80m. The airline has told business travellers that they can no longer have access to a lounge at Delhi airport, serving the Indian capital. Wow Air said that Indigo Partners, the US firm which was in talks about a potential rescue bid, has pulled out: All negotiations between Wow Air and Indigo Partners have been cancelled. The airline has now resumed talks with its bigger rival, Icelandair, about a takeover. The pair appeared on the brink of a deal in November 2018. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Icelandair Group announced: The discussions will be based on the doctrine of competition law regarding the failing firm defence. The failing firm defence is used to urge regulators that the usual rules on competition and divestment should not be followed on the grounds that, if the deal does not go through, the weaker party will cease trading. Icelandair added: The discussions will take place in cooperation with the Icelandic authorities. In October 2018, another Icelandic airline, Primera Air, went bust. It garnered international attention this week when the Danish politician Mette Abildgaard, carrying her five-month-old daughter, was asked to leave the voting chamber of the Danish parliament by the speaker, Pia Kjrsgaard. The story went viral because it clashes with Denmarks reputation as a socially liberal and progressive country, but it is just the latest of a number of news stories that have chipped away at that reputation. In 2016 the so-called jewelry law, which gave Danish authorities the right to confiscate valuable items from newly arrived refugees and was likened to the Nazi regimes confiscation of gold and other valuables from Jews, made international headlines. Last spring there were protests in Copenhagen when a ban on the use of face veils in public, dubbed the burqa ban by international media, came into effect. In December, two bills caused headlines and concern outside of Denmark. First it was reported that the government had struck a deal to isolate unwanted refugees criminal migrants and those who cannot be deported to their home countries on a remote island, a decision that was inspired by Australias infamous offshore detention centers and immediately criticized by the UN. The Complete Guide To: The best of Denmark Show all 6 1 /6 The Complete Guide To: The best of Denmark The Complete Guide To: The best of Denmark 205663.bin AP The Complete Guide To: The best of Denmark 205664.bin Denmark Tourism The Complete Guide To: The best of Denmark 205665.bin Denmark Tourism The Complete Guide To: The best of Denmark 205666.bin AFP/Getty Images The Complete Guide To: The best of Denmark 205667.bin Denmark Tourism The Complete Guide To: The best of Denmark 205668.bin AFP/Getty Images Then it was announced that the country would require all new citizens to shake hands at their naturalization ceremony, a law aimed at Muslim men and women who refuse to touch members of the opposite sex due to their religion. So far, the stories that have damaged Denmarks street cred among progressives and its image as the frontrunner of Scandi cool have mostly been about the countrys refugee politics, but the most recent story has been a blow to the countrys reputation as a pioneer of womens rights. Denmark is known for having one of the most generous parental leave policies in the world. Kjrsgaards (the speaker and former leader of the far-right Danish Peoples Party) message to Abildgaard that she is not welcome in parliament while taking care of her daughter raises the question of whether the country can extend that generosity to women who decide not to go on parental leave, too. Abildgaard, a member of the Conservative party, part of the government coalition, was entitled to a full years maternity leave, but decided not to take it in order to stay in parliament and pursue her political goals. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events With her decision to bring her baby to the voting chamber she explained that she has not done so before, did not think she had to ask for permission as she has seen other new mothers do the same, and had to, as the father could not take care of the baby as planned Abildgaard has inscribed herself to the long list of female politicians who have had to bring their baby to work, as well as to the debate of how welcoming the political sphere can truly be for women and working mothers. While other female politicians who have brought their infants to work recent examples include New Zealands prime minister Jacinda Ardern, who brought her baby to the UN General Assembly, and the Canadian minister Karina Gould, who breastfed her son during a debate in parliament have been hailed for showing what female leadership can (also) look like. In Denmark, one commentator argued that Abildgaard ought to act as a role model for other families with young children by taking the parental leave she is entitled to. Are we really not past this? former politician Ozlem Cekic asked on Twitter. It appears that we are not, and Denmark is not done tarnishing its reputation as a progressive state just yet. The push to control the US high-tech giants is gathering pace, with the UK and Europe so far making the running. Notable elements in this drive have included last week a fine of 1.5bn (1.3bn) on Google by the European Commission for blocking advertising rivals, last month the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committees report on fake news, and the report of the Digital Competition Expert Panel, chaired by former chief economist to President Obama, Professor Jason Furman, which came out 10 days ago. There will be much more to come from this side of the Atlantic, and there are two main reasons why Europe should be taking the lead. The first is that these companies are all American, so any attack on them is not attacking domestic business. The second is that Europeans have different ideas about privacy from Americans and indeed from each other. It would be nice to think that European and American regulators are indifferent to the nationality of the companies they regulate, but I am afraid they are not. Take diesel emissions: it took an unofficial US study to reveal that Volkswagen cheated on emissions tests, and European standards have until recently not attempted to control emissions in normal driving conditions, as opposed to the artificial conditions of lab tests. But the car industry is relatively more important to the European economy, and particularly that of Germany, than it is to the US. And so there is a temptation to see US regulators going soft on the American high-tech giants, whereas Europeans have no such scruples. That may change, and it is fascinating to see that one of the potential Democrat presidential candidates, Senator Elizabeth Warren, has called for the giants to be broken up. Whether that is realistic is another matter, but it is worth noting that there is a deep tradition of trust-busting in America, going back to Theodore Roosevelt, US president from 1901 to 1909, who divided monopolies into good ones that gave an efficient service at a fair price, and bad ones that needed to be curbed. I suspect a similar, if a bit arbitrary distinction will be made about this generation of monopolies, or near monopolies. Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Show all 15 1 /15 Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Facebook is born On 4 Feb, 2004, 19-year-old Harvard student Mark Zuckerberg launched a website called 'TheFacebook' from his dorm. Within 24 hours the college social network had more than 1,000 users Wikimedia Commons Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Winklevoss twins sue Zuckerberg Within one week of launching, fellow Harvard students Cameron Winklevoss, Tyler Winklevoss and Divya Narendra accused Zuckerberg of stealing their idea. It would be four years later when the resulting lawsuit was finally settled Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Open for business The social network finally opened it platform to everyone on 26 September, 2006. The move proved the catalyst in supercharging the site's already explosive growth PA Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Billion-dollar bid Yahoo offered $1 billion to buy Facebook in September 2006 but Zuckerberg turned it down. 'I dont know what I could do with the money,' Zuckerberg reportedly said. 'Id just start another social networking site' Reuters Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network In the money In September 2009, almost five years since the site launched, Facebook turned a profit for the first time Getty Images/iStockphoto Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Taking the lead Facebook overtook MySpace in 2010 to become the worlds most popular social network Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Taking on the tech giants In 2011, Google launched its own social network that it hoped would knock Facebook from its perch. Despite its initial success, Google+ ultimately failed and will be shut down completely in 2019 Getty Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Facebook goes public On 18 May, 2012, Facebook went public. The initial public offering raised $16 billion the third largest in US history Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Gobbling up the competition Facebook acquired Instagram in April 2012 for $1 billion, consolidating its position as the world's leading social network Reuters Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network One billion users On 4 October, 2012, Zuckerberg announced that Facebook had hit 1 billion users. 'If youre reading this: thank you for giving me and my little team the honour of serving you,' he wrote in a blog post Getty Images Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Expanding its empire In February 2014 Facebook acquired the messaging app WhatsApp for $19.3 billion REUTERS/Dado Ruvic Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Two billion users In June 2017, Facebook passed the 2 billion user milestone REUTERS/Dado Ruvic Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Privacy scandal On 17 March 2018, news broke that UK firm Cambridge Analytica had harvested data from around 87 million Facebook users for the purpose of political profiling in the build up to the 2016 US presidential elections Shutterstock Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Record profits Despite the scandals and subsequent #DeleteFacebook campaign, Facebook posted record profits just before its 15th anniversary, the equivalent of $7.37 from each of its 2.32 billions users iStock/Independent Facebook birthday: 15 defining moments for the social network Unhappy users A study found that people are happier when they dont use Facebook, adding to mounting evidence surrounding the impact social media has on mental health Rex Features That is for the future. The privacy issue is where the action is now. This is tricky. Europeans care a lot about some forms of privacy, but not about others. For example, tax records are public in Norway. That is not something that would go down well in the UK or the US except in the case of people going for public office. In the UK people are not required to carry identification, but seem to be happy to be photographed by security cameras. Europes General Data Protection Regulation, now running for nearly a year, has been seen as an example of pioneering protection, but it is hard to see it being transposed to the US. One of the frustrating effects is that people in Europe cannot have access to a number of American news sources. It is easier for some of them to block access to Europeans, rather than go through the hoops of compliance. That leads an issue that that I think will become more and more evident: to what extent is it worthwhile for a US company to provide a service in Europe? For the giants the answer is probably yes. At a very rough estimate, for it varies from company to company, Europe provides about one-quarter of the revenues of the big technology firms. Of that, some 60 per cent is the UK and Germany, markets which are about the same size. I cannot see Google denying Europeans access to its search engine, though that would set the cat among the pigeons were it to do so. For smaller US companies, however, it may not be worth exporting services to Europe. I suppose the obvious example is Ubers main rival, Lyft, now about to go for an IPO. It started operating in Toronto over a year ago, but so far has not looked beyond North America. That in turn leads to a final point: this is not just about privacy it is about business practice. All businesses in all sectors of the market try to beat their competitors. But there is fair and unfair competition, and there have been troubling instances of abuse of dominant market position. We will hear more about these in the months ahead. A farmer operates a tractor and a seeder in his field to sow sugar beets in the village of Cramoisy, France, March 27, 2017. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo Farmers in western Europe have begun sugar beet planting, with first indications pointing to a drop in area for the next harvest after a price slump fueled by the end of European Union production quotas. The market downturn has prompted Europes biggest sugar refiner Suedzucker to announce the closure of several factories by 2020, which could lead farmers in affected zones to make further cuts to beet planting next year. This years expected decline in planting should curb EU production and help to turn a global sugar surplus that has been pressuring prices into a net deficit, analysts say. The depressed markets after the end of the quotas has forced farmers to adapt, said Timothe Masson, economist at the French sugar beet growers group CGB, pegging a fall in plantings at EU level at about 5 percent. Assuming an average sugar yield, EU sugar production in 2019/20 would fall to about 18 million tonnes, Masson said. That would be down 3 million tonnes from output in 2017/18, the first season after the end of quotas, and stable versus the current 2018/19 season, when harvests were hit by drought. Expand Close French farmer Jean Vierling holds sugar beet seeds at his farm in Schnersheim, near Strasbourg, France, March 29, 2018. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp French farmer Jean Vierling holds sugar beet seeds at his farm in Schnersheim, near Strasbourg, France, March 29, 2018. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler EU sugar output could be reduced by a further 700,000 tonnes by aphid attacks, with many farmers in the bloc no longer allowed to use neonicotinoid pesticides because of concerns they are harmful to bees, Masson added. In France, the EUs largest beet grower which has forbidden these crop chemicals, the area drop could reach 8 percent compared to last year, he said. As of last week, French farmers had sown about 1 percent of 445,000 hectares expected in 2019, Masson said. Frequent showers this month have slowed early sugar beet planting, contrasting with rapid spring barley sowing in February during a warm, dry spell. In Germany, chilly conditions were holding up planting. Most farmers are waiting for an improvement in the current cool and cold weather before starting sowing, said Guenter Tissen, CEO of German sugar industry association WVZ. Beet cultivation in Germany was under pressure from unequal competition within the EU, with some countries paying premiums and some still permitting use of neonicotinoids, unlike Germany, he said, adding that it was too early to give area forecasts. In the UK, the crop area for the 2019/20 season is expected to be between 5 percent and 10 percent lower than this year, Associated British Foods said in its latest update last month. Barclays is transferring about 190bn of assets to its Irish unit in advance of Brexit, including business conducted by it in countries such as Germany, France, Spain, Portugal and Sweden (stock image) Barclays has continued to finalise the transfer of its mainland European business to Dublin, valuing its French business at 75m and its Italian branch at just 1m. Separately, a court in Edinburgh has approved the transfer of almost 19bn in assets to Standard Life's Irish arm. Around 600,000 Irish, German and Austrian customer policies will legally transfer from Standard Life to Dublin based Standard Life International which has a right to operate in the EU after Brexit. Barclays is transferring about 190bn of assets to its Irish unit in advance of Brexit, including business conducted by it in countries such as Germany, France, Spain, Portugal and Sweden. It will make it the biggest bank in Ireland by assets. It has valued the German business transferred to Dublin at 200m. That German business being moved to Ireland includes credit cards and a corporate investment bank unit. Accounting firm EY has assessed the fair market value of each unit that's being transferred to Ireland. "The basis of the value for the consideration is 'market value' - the price that would be paid in a transaction between a willing vendor to a willing purchaser, each of whom is acting for self-interest and gain, and both of whom are equally well-informed about the companies and the market in which they operate," noted EY in relation to the valuation placed on the French business. The Italian business that was valued at 1m includes Barclays' investment banking and corporate international divisions of its branch there, as well as the legacy mortgage business of the Italian arm. Business from its Portuguese branch being moved to Ireland was valued at 10.5m, with its Dutch branch business valued at 2.2m. In January, a UK High Court judge criticised Barclays as it finalised the legal groundwork necessary to transfer assets to Ireland. The judge said that there had been an aggressive timetable for the move, and an expectation that he would "simply wave the scheme through". "This was a significant, complex, and in certain legal respects, a novel scheme," Justice Richard Snowden said. He added: "It could not at any point in the design process have been thought that the court would simply wave the scheme through without having time for consideration." The transfer scheme initiated by Barclays involves about 5,000 clients. The transfer of assets by Barclays to Ireland is one of the most significant corporate moves made by a UK entity in advance of Brexit. The bank is doubling the number of staff here to 300 by the end of the year in its new offices on Dublin's Molesworth Street. Former Tayto crisps owner Ray Coyle stumped up 4.3m to back the 22m acquisition of Green Isle Foods and Donegal Catch, filings at the Companies Registration Office reveal. They also show that the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (Isif) injected almost 6.9m into the deal, while a Guernsey firm invested 3.2m. The takeover of the assets from UK food baron Ranjit Singh Boparan's 2 Sisters Food Group was put together by Maurice Hickey, a former managing director of Largo Foods. Mr Hickey has injected 222,000 into one of the vehicles used to effect the acquisition, which also received debt funding from Ulster Bank. The Irish Independent first named Mr Hickey as the buyer last October. The sale was confirmed earlier this month, with Isif saying it had taken the largest equity stake in the transaction. Filings confirm Isif as the single largest equity investor in the deal. Mr Coyle, who still owns Tayto Park in Co Meath, made his investment in the deal via his Irish Bison firm. Largo Foods, which owns the Tayto brand, is now owned by Germany's Intersnack. At the time the Green Isle transaction was confirmed, other unnamed private investors were also said to have participated. The beneficial owners of the Guernsey firm that invested 3.2m in the deal - Hotel Developments - are not listed in company filings, however. 'Outstanding economist': Central Bank Governor Philip Lane will be the first Irish person to sit on the six-member ECB executive board. Photo: Bloomberg Central Bank of Ireland Governor Philip Lane has been confirmed as the latest appointment to the executive board of the ECB in a move that now kicks-off in earnest the race to succeed him at the Central Bank here. The Department of Finance put out a call for expressions of interest in the top Irish job yesterday, launching an open recruitment process and seeking qualified candidates to put themselves forward. The appointment is ultimately in the gift of Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe, and the Department has tapped headhunting firm Merc Partners to help manage the search. The job advertisment posted yesterday said candidates should have "extensive experience in managing a large organisation" and of "financial and economic policy-making experience", although neither Philip Lane or his predecessor Patrick Honohan would have fitted that bill before their appointments. Both were senior academic economists at Trinity College Dublin before moving immediately to the top job at the Central Bank. This time around, Central Bank Deputy Governor Sharon Donnery is expected to throw her hat in the ring. The secretary general of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Robert Watt, and European Investment Bank vice-president Andrew McDowell are also both tipped to run. Mr Donohoe welcomed Philip Lane's appointment to the ECB board, which the minister had sponsored following a recommendation of the Ecofin Council of Finance Ministers on February 12. "Philip is an outstanding economist, and has made an important contribution over the last four years as Governor of the Central Bank," Mr Donohoe said. In Frankfurt, Philip Lane will succeed Belgium's Peter Praet as chief economist and is the first Irish person to sit on the six-member ECB executive board which decides policy for the Euro area in conjunction with the 19 heads of national central banks. Elon Musk's lawyers said that the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) failed to satisfy its heavy burden of showing that the Tesla chief executive should be held in contempt. They said that the tweet prompting its contempt motion was both proper and "not material." In a Friday filing in Manhattan federal court, Musk's lawyers also said their client "respects his obligations" to the electric car company, its shareholders and the court. Musk is trying to avoid being held in contempt for violating his October 2018 fraud settlement with the SEC, for having tweeted at 7:15 p.m. EST on Feb. 19 to his over 24 million Twitter followers that Tesla could build around 500,000 vehicles in 2019. SEC spokesman Ryan White declined to comment. Musk's settlement, including $20m civil fines for both him and Tesla, resolved an SEC lawsuit over an Aug. 7, 2018 Twitter post in which Musk said he had "funding secured" to take his Palo Alto, California-based company private at $420 a share. The SEC said Musk committed a "blatant" violation of that settlement by tweeting about Tesla's production outlook without first seeking approval from the company's lawyers. In a Monday filing, the SEC went farther, complaining that Musk had never after the settlement sought pre-approval for any Tesla-related tweets. But in Friday's filing, Musk's lawyers said the SEC had conceded during settlement talks that Tesla-related tweets were not subject to a broad pre-approval requirement. They also said the tweet was not material because it simply restated old news, used generalities, was "aspirational and optimistic," and did not move Tesla's share price. "The key question is whether Musk complied with Tesla's policy, not whether the SEC is satisfied with Tesla's policy," Musk's lawyers wrote. "Musk's belief that the 7:15 tweet did not require pre-approval was correct." Musk has until March 26 to tell U.S. District Judge Alison Nathan whether he wants an evidentiary hearing on the contempt motion. The SEC has said no hearing is necessary. The October settlement required Musk to step down as Tesla's chairman. Legal experts said a contempt finding could subject him to a higher fine, further restrictions on his activities, or even removal from Tesla's board or as chief executive. Tesla shares closed Friday down $9.49, or 3.5pc, at $264.53. They are 32pc below their peak set on Aug. 7, after the "funding secured" tweet. The case is SEC v Musk, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 18-08865. Venezuela was on the news when I picked up Gillian Smith's biography of her mother Olive, a hitherto unsung heroine of the Irish musical scene. Around 50 years ago, that country embarked on a remarkable programme of cultural inclusivity, using classical music to improve the lives of as many young people as it could. Out of this grew the Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra, comprising Venezuela's top young talent, brought to international prominence by the now principal conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel. Fifty years ago in Dublin, Olive Smith was founding the Irish Youth Orchestra, reaching out to enrich young lives through music. This is a story of how things used to be, when getting anywhere was down to the determination of tenacious individuals who refused to give up on their dream. And it's so much more, besides. Between the covers lurks a social history of a Dublin, unashamedly middle class, that is scarcely represented on the bookshelves. Olive Richardson was born into a Presbyterian household in Rathgar in 1906, the youngest of three daughters. Piano lessons, the church choir, the Girl Guides. Alexandra College. First in the Leaving in Science and Maths. Trinity, where female undergraduates had first been accepted only 20 years before. Marriage, and a position in administration at her alma mater. Music was a constant thread, taking part in piano and organ competitions at the Feis Ceoil, singing in Dublin's top choirs. Olive was in at the start of the Music Association of Ireland in 1948, appointed treasurer of a society that one of its founders, the composer Fred May, reckoned might do for music what the Irish Literary Revival had attempted some 50 years before. As a pressure group, the MAI campaigned for a purpose-built concert hall in Dublin. Instead, UCD's Aula Maxima in Earlsfort Terrace was converted for the purpose. That Olive was trenchantly opposed tells of her tenacity and determination. Video of the Day By this stage of the story, we're well into the heart of the matter, of how this musical visionary, as the biography is subtitled, saw her ambition realised with the foundation of the Irish Youth Orchestra. The first small steps had been taken at a residential summer course at Our Lady's School in Rathnew, Co Wicklow, in 1970. Under the direction of the conductor Hugh Maguire with John O'Conor, the pianist, as orchestra manager, the week-long event set out to "give secondary pupils from all over the country a chance to play with other musicians of their own age and to receive first-class orchestral tuition". That they most certainly got, with recollections recorded of the spine-tingling sensation of being involved in the playing of Schubert's 'Unfinished Symphony', something they'd never have experienced at school. By all accounts, there were high jinks, too, card playing into the small hours, and even what's described as "a dawn escape down to the nearby beach", a breakdown in discipline that led to a summit with the ringleaders of this craic and fun. One of them was the principal cellist, Gerry Kelly. He recalls that meeting with Granny Smith, as they knew her. We can't have you all running wild, was her line. How are we going to sort it? She was way ahead of her time, Gerry recalls, consulting teenagers and respecting their opinion. There was never any bother in subsequent years. Love stories began on that course. Gerry first met his future wife, my RTE lyric fm colleague Evelyn Grant, in Rathnew that summer, and they were married in 1975. There's some film footage from the time, which Olive herself shot, in a documentary that charts the first 10 years of the Irish Youth Orchestra, on the Journal of Irish Music website (www.journalofmusic.com), a real trip down memory lane for those of us whose teenage years were neither today nor yesterday. Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the orchestra, and it's going from strength to strength. Gillian Smith - herself an accomplished soloist and chamber musician - has combined exhaustive research with a most carefully crafted narrative to produce a book that's part social history, part chronicle of the cultural life of a country short on resources, finding its feet. George Hamilton presents 'The Hamilton Scores' on RTE lyric fm from 10am each Saturday and Sunday Danny DeVito told fans to vote for the Labour Party at the European premiere of Dumbo in London (Matt Crossick/PA) Hollywood star Danny DeVito has urged his fans to vote for Jeremy Corbyn at the next general election. The American actor, an admirer of the opposition leader, gave a thumbs up as he said vote Labour at the European premiere of Tim Burtons live action remake of Dumbo. DeVito endorsed Mr Corbyn during the 2017 general election and, speaking at the event in London, said he was still a big fan of the politician. He told the Press Association: Oh yeah, Im a big fan. I think we should be bringing people together. I think we should take care of everybody. Expand Close Danny DeVito backed the Labour leader in 2017 (Matt Crossick/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Danny DeVito backed the Labour leader in 2017 (Matt Crossick/PA) Weve got a wonderful world we live in. People have a lot of money. We have to figure it out with the distribution of wealth. Last year the 74-year-old defended Mr Corbyn amid allegations of anti-Semitism in the Labour party. He suggested events from Mr Corbyns past had been dug up to make him look bad. Expand Close Colin Farrell, left to right, Nico Parker, Tim Burton, Finley Hobbins, Eva Green and Danny DeVito (Matt Crossick/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Colin Farrell, left to right, Nico Parker, Tim Burton, Finley Hobbins, Eva Green and Danny DeVito (Matt Crossick/PA) Video of the Day DeVito added that the Disney film encapsulated his life-long experience of feeling like an outsider. He said: Tim and I feel, and all of us have that same thing, that oddity. You feel a little out of place. I grew up that way. My size was always a factor. Giving this great project to an artist like Tim, it brings it into the 21st century. We also deal with the animal rights situation really in a good way. We all feel that animals should not be held in captivity. I think we dealt with it in a great way in Dumbo. DeVitos acting career has included starring roles in One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest, Twins, LA Confidential and the classic TV series Taxi. In Dumbo he plays the owner of a travelling circus whose plans are upended following the arrival of a baby elephant with the ability to fly. Dumbo is due for release on March 29. Irish actor Colin Farrell has described the "magical" experience of shooting Tim Burton's new film Dumbo surrounded by 150 circus performers. The filming of Dumbo was "imagination made manifest physically", Farrell said, with 150 circus performers from all four corners of the globe taking part. As well as contortionists from Mongolia, there were wire walkers from Lithuania, South American magicians and fire breathers on set. "It was Tim Burton's imagination come alive and I'd been a fan of his for 30 years since I saw Pee Wee's Big Adventure and so to finally walk on a set of his and one that was as magical and as fundamentally sweet at its core as this [was magical]," he said. He added: "There was this kind of familial energy there. He'd obviously worked with Danny Davito a number of times, Michael Keaton a number of times, Ava Green." Farrell said actor and creature performer Ed Osmond was dressed head to toe in spandex and wore stilts on his arms to act out Dumbo and bring the character to life for him. Up until a few months of shooting Dumbo, Farrell hadn't seen the original 1941 Disney production. "Not that I wasn't a fan, I'd never seen it. I didn't see it until about a couple of months before I jumped on the plane to do this. I'd seen Lion King, Aristocrats, Lady and The Tramp and that, but for some reason this never came up." "But the message at the centre of the original, albeit it's kind of dealt with in a shady way... there are some elements in the original that thank God aren't appropriate today. It's so telling that nobody thought it was distasteful back then. It was before the civil rights movement and things were very different I'm glad to say. But Tim has reimagined it in a way that feels modern, contemporary, very respectful, doesn't shy away from some of the darker aspects of life like loss and suffering and grief and greed." "But at it's centre it's a very hopeful tale about inclusion and the celebration of difference and it was a lovely message to be part of." A man accused of being the world's biggest facilitator of child porn has been cleared for extradition to the United States by the Supreme Court. The decision brings to an end a battle by Eric Eoin Marques, before the Irish courts, aimed at preventing his extradition. The Supreme Court unanimously dismissed Mr Marques' appeal against a decision of the High Court that he be surrendered to US authorities. That decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal. Mr Marques, in his 30s, is wanted by US authorities to face charges relating to conspiring to distribute and advertise child pornography, and advertising and distributing child pornography. He is alleged to be the owner and administrator of an anonymous hosting site known as Freedom Hosting. Mr Marques, of Mountjoy Square, Dublin, has been in custody since his arrest in August 2013 after being refused bail over concerns, including that he represented a flight risk and may interfere with evidence. Last year, the Supreme Court agreed to hear Mr Marques' appeal on the basis that it raised points of law that were of public significance. The appeal centred around the Director of Public Prosecutions' decision not to prosecute him in Ireland for the same alleged offences that the US authorities want to prosecute him for. His lawyers asked the Supreme Court whether the Minister for Justice was under an obligation to seek reasons from the DPP as to why Mr Marques was not being prosecuted in Ireland for the alleged offences. The court was also asked if the reasons given by the minister in making the decision to extradite Mr Marques were adequate. The State, represented by Ronan Kennedy BL, had argued that the appeal be dismissed. Giving the court's decision, Mr Justice Peter Charleton said that Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan "was not under an obligation to seek reasons from the DPP as to why a suspect is not being prosecuted in Ireland". The minister, who under the 1965 Extradition Act can refuse to order a suspect's extradition, has a separate function from the DPP. Mr Justice Charleton said the reasons given by the minister in the circumstances of this case not to seek reasons from the DPP were adequate, the judge added. Mr Justice William McKechnie, Mr Justice John McMenamin, Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley and Ms Justice Mary Finlay Geoghegan concurred with Mr Justice Charleton's decision. The court lifted the stay on the extradition order made by the lower courts, clearing the way for Mr Marques' surrender to the US authorities. Children of Sean Quinn (left-right) Sean Jr, Aoife and Brenda at the Four Courts. Photo: Collins Courts The case involving former billionaire Sean Quinn's children, the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (IBRC) and its liquidator has all the trappings of a high-stakes legal battle. A veritable army of lawyers are involved. The parties are represented by three high-powered law firms and there are so many senior counsel - eight in total - that there is not enough room for them all on the senior benches. The trial, ongoing for a fortnight, could last six months. At issue is the validity of guarantees and share pledges given by the children in connection with multi-million euro loans from IBRC's predecessor, Anglo Irish Bank. The case is not just notable for what is at stake, the plethora of lawyers and its expected length. It also involves a considerable amount of intrigue. In the past week, the High Court has heard allegations of serious fraud, arson and violence. The judge has twice been told some witnesses are reluctant to participate. There has also been conflicting claims about the dynamic that existed within what was Ireland's richest family. Bernard Dunleavy SC, counsel for Sean Jr, Ciara, Colette, Aoife and Brenda Quinn, said they lived modest lifestyles and did not fully grasp the implications when, at their father's behest, they signed the guarantees and pledges. It was claimed that although the children were the shareholders in Quinn Group, they were under his influence and he made all of the decisions. But IBRC's counsel Paul Gallagher SC has rejected the presentation of the children as "naive and unsophisticated". He said they were well-educated and used to engaging in complex, sophisticated multi-million euro transactions. According to Mr Gallagher, their lifestyles were anything but modest. The 1m wedding of Ciara Quinn was cited, as were gifts worth 12m from the children to their parents. The case has its roots in Sean Quinn's ill-fated use of contracts for difference (CFDs), financial instruments which allow someone to bet on the performance of a share without owning it. Huge profits could be made if the share price increases, but enormous losses can be suffered if it falls. Mr Quinn placed all his eggs in one basket, speculating on the performance of Anglo. As the share price collapsed during 2007 and 2008, some 2.34bn was borrowed by Quinn companies from Anglo. The lending had the dual purpose of funding Mr Quinn's losses and of propping up the bank's share price. The CFD stake would ultimately be unwound, but this could not prevent the collapse of Anglo or the Quinn family losing control of its business empire. Mr Quinn was adjudicated bankrupt in 2012. While this wiped out his debts, his children have been pursued by IBRC for a liability of 415m arising from the Anglo loans. They argue they should not be held liable as they were unduly influenced by their father. An interesting feature of the case is they are not suing their father, but the bank. They say Anglo knew the influence their father had over them and claim the bank was negligent and didn't tell them to get independent legal advice. As part of IBRC's defence, it has drawn attention to an alleged scheme to put up to 455m in foreign property assets beyond IBRC's reach. Mr Gallagher said the children knew where the assets were and decided to remove them. He said this involved "deviousness" and "malintent". The court has been told the first five witnesses to be called will be the Quinn children. Brenda Quinn had been due to be examined yesterday, but this was delayed due to a number of applications. The court heard the calling of witnesses has not been straightforward. Handing in a list of 20 intended witnesses, Mr Dunleavy said some were reluctant to give evidence. Earlier in the week, barrister Ross Gorman told the court of threats and actions of violence towards two witnesses he represents, former Quinn Group executives Dara O'Reilly and Liam McCaffrey. Mr O'Reilly's car was set on fire and boiling water was thrown in his face. The case will resume on Wednesday when Mr Justice Garrett Simons will rule on whether the children can pursue their allegation that their father unduly influenced them. The judge will also decide whether they can be quizzed about the alleged conspiracy to put property assets beyond IBRC's reach. New Zealand is a sliver compared to the United States in land mass. It is not a military superpower or an economic hegemon. And yet by another measure -- let's call it political maturity -- New Zealand has left the United States in the dust. A mere six days after a gruesome terrorist attack that slaughtered 50 people as they gathered at two mosques for Friday prayers, New Zealand responded by banning the military-style semi-automatic guns the terrorist used in the attack. Well, sure, you object, but there's no such thing as a New Zealand National Rifle Association . In fact there is, but it's largely focused on competitive target shooting and hunting, rather than shoveling dark money into the country's parliament. Whatever cultural, historical and legal differences there may be between our society and New Zealand's, our politics have been so deeply corrupted that we can't take even the most basic steps to address gun violence. But the problem goes deeper than mere money influence. We'd better start being far more honest and pragmatic about this truth. Without it, the U.S. will never make inroads to the devastating way gun violence ends about 40,000 North Americans lives annually by suicide, accidents and homicide. Consider the words Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern used to announce the bans, which includes all high-capacity ammunition magazines and parts that allow weapons to be modified: "It's about all of us, it's in the national interest and it's about safety," she said. Sounds simple enough. Ardern framed the decisions, which are expected to pass quickly through Parliament, as a matter of national good. Public safety trumps all. In the U.S., the spirit of individualism holds sway. It can be a strength, but at times it's also the source of our folly. Even though the Second Amendment's wording references collectivity and common defense -- a "well-regulated militia" -- many Americans love to see the right of self-defense and to bear arms fundamentally individual. The saliency of individualism is partly why it's taken decades for gun safety as a matter of public health to gain traction in the U.S. These words, by New Zealand's Police Minister, would be blasphemy to many here: "owning a firearm is a privilege and not a right." New Zealand also announced a gun buyback program. And most gun owners there, ranchers and farmers, are expected to comply. Gun organizations have stated that the high-powered weapons aren't necessary. In the U.S., buybacks elicit howls about a slippery slope to confiscation. And because so many guns are in circulation, what are often handed over are broken or unwanted guns. Many then take the cash incentive and buy new guns. Some in the U.S. have called for permits and mandatory training for gun owners, but this rubs up against gun-rights zealots' feelings about the Second Amendment, which they feel invests absolute rights in the individual. Some in the gun lobby allow that background checks may help curb the incidence of mass shootings. Yet recent research suggests that if U.S. authorities expanded gun background checks without also increasing the licensing required, it might not have the desired effect of keeping guns away from dangerous people. Most Americans understand that the highly individualistic interpretation of gun rights is preventing us from addressing gun violence in all its forms. New Zealand, through its swift example, has offered the U.S. a perspective. It's a mirror to see ourselves more clearly, if we dare to look. Finally, it's worth noting that New Zealand's sense of public good overcame another troubling theme of American politics: xenophobia. Many of the dead in Christchurch were not native-born New Zealanders. And yet their suffering moved that nation to act, swiftly and with authority. Meanwhile, the mass murders of teenagers at a high school in Parkland, Fla., and of 6- and 7-year-olds at an elementary school in Newtown, Conn., could not produce a similar reaction here. Many Americans, perhaps a majority, wanted to see firmer laws enacted to control the tools of murder. However, a vocal -- and well-funded -- minority held fast to the maximalist doctrine of individual gun rights. That's for gun control activists and other concerned Americans to ponder. It's one thing to rally public opinion around a social problem. It's another thing to defang a well-heeled lobby that dictates policy to one of our political parties. And it's another thing entirely to effect a sea change in how a major constitutional precept is interpreted. Such changes have occurred -- even with respect to the Second Amendment -- but it is devilishly hard. That is the work before us. (Readers can reach Mary Sanchez at msanchezcolumn@gmail.com and follow her on Twitter @msanchezcolumn.) (c) 2019, MARY SANCHEZ DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC A man accused of being the world's biggest facilitator of child porn has extradited to the United States this morning. An Garda Siochana confirmed that Eric Eoin Marques was surrendered to FBI agents at Dublin Airport. Mr Marques, who is in his 30s, will appear in court in the US on Monday. Eric Marques' extradition was sought by the US over allegations that he conspired to distribute and advertise child pornography on the dark web. Mr Marques, of Mountjoy Square, Dublin, has been in custody since his arrest in August 2013 after being refused bail over concerns, including that he represented a flight risk and may interfere with evidence. Last week, the Supreme Court unanimously dismissed Mr Marques' appeal against a decision of the High Court that he be surrendered to US authorities. That decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal. The decision brought to an end a battle by Eric Eoin Marques, before the Irish courts, aimed at preventing his extradition. A social worker has told how she received a phone call from Patrick Quirke complaining that Mary Lowry had "lost the run of herself" over a new relationship and was jeopardising "the wellbeing and safety" of her children. Deirdre Caverley, who gave evidence via a video link from Boston, told the Tipperary murder trial that Mr Quirke had claimed Ms Lowry was leaving her three children unsupervised for long periods while she spent time with her new boyfriend. In 2011, Ms Caverley worked for the HSE as a social worker, based in Clonmel, and on February 4 of that year, as duty social worker, she had received a telephone call from Mr Quirke expressing concern about the welfare of the three Lowry children, she said. "The concerns were about the wellbeing and safety of the three Lowry children, especially an allegation put by Mr Quirke that the children were being left unsupervised for long periods of time, mostly at the weekends," said Ms Caverley. Mr Quirke had claimed Ms Lowry would leave the family home and the children unsupervised from 4pm and would be gone "until the early hours of the morning". This happened usually at the weekends, Mr Quirke had stated, claiming these concerns had been going on "for about three months". Asked by Michael Bowman SC, for the prosecution, if he had given any other information of what else was going on in terms of the family, Ms Caverley replied that he had told her "the wider paternal family" were concerned but were "afraid to address these concerns with Ms Lowry for fear of repercussions". The paternal grandmother was "especially" concerned, Mr Quirke had claimed. Mr Quirke (50), of Breanshamore, Co Tipperary, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Bobby Ryan (52), a part-time DJ known as Mr Moonlight, on a date between June 3, 2011, and April 2013. Ms Caverley said that Mr Quirke had told her that Ms Lowry had "recently entered into a new relationship" and she was with her new boyfriend during these times when the children were left unsupervised. He had told her Ms Lowry had been widowed three-and-a-half years beforehand. "He felt that, quote unquote, she had 'lost the run of herself' and had become fixated on this relationship," Ms Caverley told the trial. "He added that she was failing to take into account the emotional needs of her three children because of this new relationship." Ms Caverley said she had asked Mr Quirke if Ms Lowry had put childcare arrangements in place if she was going out at the weekend, given that Mr Quirke had advised that the paternal grandmother resided in 'a granny flat' attached to the Lowry home. However, Mr Quirke claimed the children's grandmother was not asked to look after the children when Ms Lowry was allegedly leaving them. He had told the social worker that these concerns over the children had been in place for about three months prior to this phone call. Ms Caverley told the court that given that the alleged concerns were taking place over the weekends and that the social work department did not work weekends, she had advised Mr Quirke to contact An Garda Siochana, which could look into those concerns "immediately". Asked if she had taken any further steps, Ms Caverley replied that she had advised Mr Quirke that she would open an assessment into the concerns and they would make contact with Ms Lowry to meet with her and address the concerns for her children. On February 10, 2011, she carried out an unannounced visit to the Lowry home but found nobody at home. She told the court there was "an individual" on the property at the time of her visit. He did not identify himself and when Ms Caverley asked him whether Ms Lowry was home, he said she was not and provided no indication of when he expected her to return. Ms Caverley then made contact with Mr Quirke by phone advising him that her unannounced visit had been unsuccessful and asked when the best time for another visit would be, given that it was a long drive out to the house from their office in Clonmel. He advised her that 4pm was the best time as the children would be home from school, as would Ms Lowry, who did volunteer work in the community during the day. Under cross-examination by Bernard Condon SC, for the defence, Ms Caverley agreed that Mr Quirke had expressed a view that whilst Ms Lowry was "entitled to be in a new relationship", she was leaving the children unsupervised. She also agreed that she had assured Mr Quirke that he "did the right thing by contacting the social work department". Meanwhile, the trial earlier heard that a search for 'Bobby Ryan' was carried out on Mary Lowry's computer the day before Mr Ryan's remains were discovered. Detective Garda Paul Fitzpatrick, of the Garda Cyber Crime Unit, agreed under cross-examination that analysis of Ms Lowry's computer revealed that on April 29, 2013, the viewer had searched for the key words 'Trace Ireland Bobby Ryan'. Under questioning by Mr Condon, Det Gda Fitzpatrick agreed he was unable to say whether searches carried out on a computer taken from Mr Quirke's house had been as the result of predictive text. The witness agreed that this computer did not have a password and he could not say who was using it at any given time. The trial heard on Thursday that Google searches for "human body decomposition timeline" were found on the computer taken from the house of Mr Quirke. Material on one website accessed addressed how bacteria could be used to measure how long a body had been under water. A link to YouTube videos for 'the Body Farm' study of human decomposition was also found, relating to 'human remains, skin slippage and DNA analysis', which appeared as images, though gardai were unable to say if they had been watched. A second link to a Body Farm video had a comment from a researcher, saying: "You never forget the smell," said Gda Fitzpatrick. Judge Eileen Creedon informed the jury that evidence in the trial is expected to conclude next week. So-called "anti-vaxxers" who spread wrong information about life-saving vaccines must be called out, Health Minister Simon Harris has insisted. "We really need to call on the anti-vaxxers to cop on - we need to call them out," he said. Referring to some of his Dail colleagues, he said: "They continue to send representations to me, questioning the benefits of vaccinations about constituent X and Y. "Yes, we need to supply parents with all the information. Yes, we need to help parents make informed decisions." He said increasing outbreaks of measles and mumps were linked to children not being vaccinated. Social media giants also have a responsibility not to allow misinformation about vaccines to be given an airing and he intends to get more collective support at European level to fight them. Mr Harris was speaking after he paid tribute to Laura Brennan (26), who died this week of cervical cancer after campaigning for greater take-up of the HPV vaccine to protect against the disease. He said the Co Clare woman, whose funeral will take place next week, was "amazing". "I have no doubt she saved lives. She was the most amazing person. Every time I met her, it was never about Laura but helping other women," he added. "She was a beautiful woman, so full of life." The take-up of the HPV vaccine rose from 51pc to 70pc after she became involved in the HSE campaign promoting the jab. More than 1,500 children may have suffered some form of brain development problem or physical disability because their mother took a drug used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder during pregnancy, according to the HSE. The drug Valproate - marketed in Ireland under the brand name Epilim - may be linked to 1,250 children who suffered brain development delay and up to 341 more being born with physical defects, the analysis reveals. Healthcare experts gathered at a conference in Dublin yesterday to discuss the impact of these conditions, which are known as foetal Valproate syndrome. The European Medicines Agency's pharmacovigilance risk assessment committee last year found that women were not always receiving appropriate and timely information on risks of the drug during pregnancy. It must not be used in pregnancy unless there is no suitable alternative treatment. The HSE's Rapid Assessment report looked at its potential impact during pregnancy between 1975 and 2015. It suggests that an estimated 43 to 95 children under the age of 16 today will have experienced a major congenital malformation as a result of Valproate exposure and 349 have some form of neurodevelopmental delay. Dr Colm Henry, HSE chief clinical officer, told the conference: "A specialist paediatric consultant has been appointed to Our Lady's Hospital, Crumlin, to support medical diagnosis, and we are working to improve access to genetic testing and diagnosis. "We have also supported the development of a diagnostic pathway for Valproate syndrome, we are reviewing how community supports for people affected can be improved, and we have also begun the development of women's health in epilepsy programme." Professor Amanda Wood, professor of developmental neuropsychology at Aston University, Birmingham, said: "There remain significant gaps in our knowledge about the longer-term outcomes for children exposed in utero to sodium Valproate and we are committed to ensuring that surveillance of neurodevelopmental effects occurs early for new medicines, including anticonvulsants." Peter Murphy, the CEO of Epilepsy Ireland, said he hoped the conference would act as a springboard for implementing the diagnostic and support services that families across the country deserve and urgently require. Sanofi, the makers of the drug, said that it had provided information and warnings on its use including during pregnancy which was in accordance with regulatory requirements. What does Brexit mean for Ireland? A difficult question to answer as we are yet to discover what Brexit even means for Britain. There is the reputed 'Brexit dividend' in jobs and investment, but after 20 years of improving relations, Brexit has seen a rise of not-entirely compatible nationalisms. What does this mean for the large numbers of Britons living in or moving to Ireland in the face of the schism with Europe? It is a pressing issue, with passport applications from Great Britain almost doubling from 46,229 in 2015 to 80,752 last year, to add to the 103,113 UK nationals resident in Ireland, as of 2016. Expand Close Citizen: Dr John McGilp got his Irish passport 40 years after moving here. Photo: Mark Condren / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Citizen: Dr John McGilp got his Irish passport 40 years after moving here. Photo: Mark Condren Meanwhile, on Wednesday, figures released by Ernst & Young showed that Dublin "remains the most popular choice for financial services firms to relocate post-Brexit with 28 firms having committed". EY also reported that 7,000 financial services jobs are likely to leave London for Europe. How many of those jobs are headed for Dublin is unclear. Jan Smullen, head of HR for EY Ireland. says they "haven't seen a huge uptake in interest specifically related to Brexit". It does seem increasingly likely, however, that for Ireland, Brexit means Brexiles. Many of these nationals, having left Britain, feel a sense of estrangement from a political and social landscape they see as redrawn. For Welsh architect Richard Bonney, it means Irish citizenship. "Getting an Irish passport is my little bit of a stand against the whole Brexit thing," he says. "I'm a very proud Welshman but I feel more of an affinity to Europe now than to Britain. And I don't say that lightly," says Bonney (41) who is originally from Neath, met his wife, Olivia, in London and moved to Ireland with her. They have two children, Rhys and Lilly. Bonney, who studied in Sheffield, fears that Brexit represents a resurgent English nationalism. He also understands the leave impulse. "The South Wales coalfields had a strong leave vote. My family back home are Leavers. "People say things weren't as good as 20 years ago. They voted leave because they felt they had nothing to lose. That's what Remainers didn't appreciate," he adds. "When I was back in Wales for a rugby match, I took my wife down the Valleys and there were blue EU flags everywhere - new libraries, new community centres. The Valleys benefit a huge amount from structural funding. It's just people didn't realise it. "During the referendum, Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales weren't mentioned. All the boys in the Welsh society feel that Brexit is about English nationalism. I find the whole thing quite poisonous. There's a few people who have recently moved over and they're devastated." Immigration into Ireland from the UK isn't a new phenomenon. Back in 2002, the UK community numbered 103,476, climbing to 112,548 in 2006 and remaining relatively unchanged in 2011, before falling by roughly a tenth. According to the last Census, the UK community in Ireland is older than most other groups; 57pc are over 45, 41pc have an Irish partner and 62pc own their own home. While these statistics point to a well integrated, settled community, they have benefited from both the EU and the Common Travel Area, (CTA). Some fear this ease of movement will suffer some attrition. "We moved to Ireland because my husband got a job here, and then I got a job," says Davina Saint, a banking solicitor living in Dublin. Before she left Britain, Saint had lived in London and Oxford. Hardened rhetoric "Before that we'd been living in South Africa, and everything was so difficult with work permits and visas," she says. "Then we came here and it was just all 'Europe'. It was seamless and easy as both myself and my husband had British passports. "Then last week I got a letter from my insurance company saying I'm listed with a British driver's licence and they couldn't say what would happen after March 29 so I had to get an Irish driver's licence. "Suddenly I'm in a scenario where I've always assumed that I'd always be able to stay here in Ireland and it would always be the same. Now that assumption is challenged for me," says Saint. There is more than paperwork to the changing Anglo-Irish dynamic of course. Recent months have seen a hardening of rhetoric with senior Tories exposing either staggering arrogance or cynical dog whistles. In December, BBC political editor Nicholas Watt reported a 'Tory grandee' told him: "We simply cannot allow the Irish to treat us like this. This simply cannot stand. The Irish really should know their place." Many Irish in Britain, particularly those living in England, have expressed exasperation at such commentary and Tory outbursts including those of Priti Patel, Jacob Rees-Mogg and, most recently, MEP Daniel Hannan's lampooned treatise on Fianna Fail, provoked fury and anguish in equal measure. Of course the Irish moral authority was blunted somewhat by Sinn Fein's "England Get Out of Ireland' St Patrick's Day banner, (albeit in New York) last weekend. For others, the tone of the debate in the Republic raises concerns, and one academic says the conversation could benefit from less heat. "For British people living in the Republic of Ireland, one thing I notice is how strident and morally superior a lot of the commentary has become," notes Dr Bill Kissane, associate professor of Comparative Politics at the London School of Economics. Dr Kissane, who is Irish and undertook his undergraduate and Masters at Trinity, adds: "There's no critical thinking about what has produced this in the first place and what is going wrong with European integration. "And what about the Irish attitude to European integration? It's not so long ago that we had a very deep economic crisis and the European Union was seen as one of the bad guys and it's all been forgotten. "We use the term Brexit, Brexit meaning Britain leaving the European Union, but what's the difference between Britain, England and the United Kingdom? "I think what's happening here is that English nationalism is reasserting itself and Britain, as a concept, is under a lot of pressure. "So for people who moved to Ireland, I don't know how all this will play out. There is the Common Travel Area, which I suppose will remain. "They are the second biggest minority in the Irish Republic [after the Polish]. Their rights will be respected and they will remain here - it's quite an old population profile. But one can't assume that just because people leave England and move to Ireland, they're indifferent to national pride." Brexit has become something of a lightning rod, Dr Kissane believes, for those seeking to project a new kind of Irish nationalism. "The European Project has allowed people to express Irish nationalism in a new way. In the past, Irish nationalism was the North or it was the GAA or it was the Irish language, but now people can be quite progressive and they can still be Irish nationalists by criticising Brexit." The British in Ireland say this frustration with Brexit is entirely understandable. Dr John McGilp (68) is a professor of Physics, originally from Langbank in Scotland's Renfrewshire - which voted 64.8pc to Remain. He moved to Ireland in September 1977 to take up a lectureship at Trinity and has been here ever since. He married an Irish woman and they have two children. "I've had no experience in Ireland of any anti-British sentiment. A lot of people think Brexit is stupid. It was decision taken in the UK but I still think it entitles Irish people to have a view on it." Despite having lived here for almost 40 years by the time of the UK referendum, McGilp only decided to apply for his passport after the Brexit vote and was made a citizen in April 2017. 'Cultures are not dissimilar' "I never considered Irish citizenship before mainly because I found nationalism was less important as the EU developed. Then Brexit happened and I thought, this sounds really bad. "So I had two problems after the result: Do I feel Irish or Scottish? The answer is I'm both. The test was when I wanted Ireland to beat Scotland in the rugby last year. The cultures are not dissimilar, which helps. Scottish people have a similar view on life as Irish people. You can tell that from the Brexit vote." Scotland voted 62pc to Remain. South of Scotland, the atmosphere is different. "I've been following the way the British press has been treating Europe for 30 years. Most politicians, even Irish politicians, will use Europe as an excuse for unpopular changes," adds McGilp. "And when people are doing badly, they look for someone to blame. The effect is they've given voice to a small minority who are very antagonistic to anybody who's not English." Some say the relationship between Irish and English is more complicated. Laura is a 45-year-old civil servant from the south of England who has lived in Ireland for 20 years. "I've lived here nearly half my life, but Ireland is a dramatically different place to the UK. Dublin, for example, is a much more distinctively European city. Most UK people would have no notion. They think it's like Scotland or Wales." Laura says there are a minority from whom she gets a reaction. "I'd say one in every 40 or 50 I meet, consistently over 20 years, visibly recoils at my accent." (Fleabag rather than Downton Abbey.) Visceral reaction "Everytime it happens, I'm shocked - because I've had it from the youngest to the oldest. And it's that from-the-mother's-breast hatred of the English, that hasn't particularly changed in 20 years." Laura describes the reaction as 'visceral' and though not angry, she looks forward to hearing more accents like hers on the street. "You hear every accent except mine," she says. This is almost certainly set to be the case as large London-based institutions move their centres. "Some companies will probably seek to retain high-potential, high-performance individuals where professional skills are not freely available in the market," says EY's Jan Smullen. Remote working, or commuting Monday-to-Friday, might be available to some, she says, on an assignment-by-assignment basis. Housing is another matter. "At a junior level, things like rental prices in Dublin can be prohibitive. If you're more high-end in terms of salary, it may not be such a consideration," she says. "Dublin gets rated very highly in terms of quality of life, environment and socialising." Now, for Ireland, it's a case of policy and preparation, says Dr Kissane. "In terms of integrating people, three things matter - education, which isn't too bad, healthcare, which is a disaster compared to [the UK] and housing, which is also very problematic. "Less than 10 years ago, people would have been saying that Irish attitudes towards the UK were fundamentally changing as a consequence of the queen's visit, that there was some kind of tangible reconciliation, but I personally think that the emotions that are rooted in the past of conflict are actually deeper, haven't gone away and they can be re-ignited if the political process works to that end." Richard Bonney says that he doesn't feel any less welcome after Brexit, in fact he probably feels more so. "I think it did make me feel I wasn't British anymore. I'm a proud Welshman. I've got the language. I almost felt, 'Has my time in Ireland changed me?' "Even when I go back, I've felt as I've moved on. I feel now more Irish than I almost do Welsh sometimes. Brexit killed my Britishness. But it hasn't killed my Welshness." The DUP has roundly rejected British Prime Minister Theresa May's latest efforts at passing her Brexit deal - but the party is to be welcomed to Fine Gael's national conference today. The party's chief whip in Westminster, Jeffrey Donaldson, is to take part in a debate on the future of North-South relations alongside Tanaiste Simon Coveney. Mr Donaldson has previously been hugely critical of Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, accusing him of "playing politics" with the Border and the Good Friday Agreement. His attendance at the event in Wexford is likely to raise eyebrows in London as it comes just a day after his colleague Nigel Dodds's scathing attack on UK Prime Minister Theresa May. He described her attempts at getting changes to the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement as a "disappointment and inexcusable" failure. "Lectures by the prime minister putting the blame on others cannot disguise the responsibility her government bears for the current debacle and the fact that her agreement has been twice overwhelmingly rejected," Mr Dodds said. But Mr Coveney said he wanted to welcome Donaldson to the conference, along with Alliance leader Naomi Long and the SDLP's Claire Hanna. He said it would be an opportunity to discuss the situation with the senior DUP figure, and claimed there were "deep divisions" within the all political parties in Westminster, including the DUP. "I read the statement that Nigel Dodds made, it was very critical of the prime minister - I think we need to be careful not to read too much into emotive language now," Mr Coveney said. "We have tried to respond to their perspective by giving reassurance and clarification and the EU has responded very generously to the concerns they have over the backstop. "That is why we have to go with the withdrawal agreement, a legal document that requires the EU to set timelines and processes. "The statement that she hasn't changed the perspective of the EU is an unfair criticism; the European Council was never going to be about changing the Withdrawal Agreement, it was about focusing on timelines and whether or not Article 50 got extended, and I think expecting anything else was unrealistic." The topics being discussed include the lack of an functioning executive in Northern Ireland. The agenda for the Fine Gael conference is heavily focused on Brexit. Another special guest is the European People Party's candidate to be the next president of the European Commission, Manfred Weber. Mr Weber will also visit a Wexford farm to discuss the impact Brexit will have on the agricultural sector. THE Governments plan of action for avoiding a hard border in the event of a no-deal Brexit is very rough and very preliminary, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has admitted. With fears of a disorderly Brexit mounting across Europe, the Taoiseach admitted there is still no way of avoiding border infrastructure without something that looks like the backstop. The backstop, which will see Northern Ireland closely aligned to EU regulations in order to keep the borders open for trade, is being cited by the DUP and Tory Brexiteers as the main reason they cant support Prime Minister Theresa Mays deal. Speaking at Fine Gaels National Conference in Wexford, Mr Varadkar said if the UK crashes out of the EU then difficult discussions will be needed with the European Commission on how to maintain an open border. First of all you would expect the British government to stand its commitments in the December 2017 declaration where they agreed they would maintain full regulatory alignment with the European Union if that was necessary to avoid a hard border. We know from the UK governments own plans that if we did end up in a no-deal scenario that they would treat Northern Ireland separately from day one, Mr Varadkar said. He described the plan as no more than a sketch at this stage but added: The more and more you get into it, the more and more it looks like the backstop. Thats how we ended up with the backstop in the first place. Asked if over promised when saying the backstop was bullet proof, Mr Varadkar replied: The backstop being bullet proof is contingent on the Withdrawal Agreement being ratified. Ive never made the assumption that itll be ratified but I do think it still can be ratified. Thats in the hands of the House of Commons. Every food lover worth his or her salt has a bucket list. Obvious inclusions might be caviar and lobster, native oysters and white summer truffles. The first asparagus of the season and wild salmon from a particular river. Delve deeper and you'll find goose barnacles and gulls' eggs, sea urchin, abalone and snipe. A particularly decadent list might include ortolan; a reckless one, puffer fish. Steak fanciers have their own meaty bucket lists. While most of the beef served in decent Irish restaurants comes from grass-fed, pasture-reared Aberdeen Angus and Hereford cattle, occasionally you'll find Dexter, Belted Galloway or other less familiar breeds, each offering something subtly different in terms of flavour and texture. Occasionally, there will be the opportunity - should one wish, given concerns over GMO feed and large-scale indoor cattle sheds - to try corn or grain-fed beef imported from the US or South America. Wagyu beef, originally from Japan but now also being farmed in Ireland, is a pricey treat for those who like their beef meltingly tender, with a fat content (including a high proportion of healthy monounsaturated fats) that's off the scale in comparison to other breeds. Chef Gareth 'Gaz' Smith is the chef/owner of Michael's restaurant in well-heeled Mount Merrion, which specialises in steak and seafood. "Our most popular steak by far is the fillet on the bone that I get from butcher Rick Higgins in Sutton," he says. "Cooking on the bone always gives the meat more flavour, and these fillets have a lovely, rounded, bovine flavour but they are still just as lean and tender as a regular fillet." Gaz explains that sometimes his customers send back rib-eye steaks because they don't like the appearance of visible fat, even though it is the marbling in a rib-eye that gives the meat its flavour, and customers can cut off anything that they don't want to eat. Gaz recently offered Japanese Wagyu steaks to his customers; the response from the non-fat-phobic was enthusiastic. Now he is bringing them something different again: Galician Blonde beef, from the Rubia Gallega breed, imported from Spain by Rick Higgins. Gaz says that the chance to work with this very special beef, rarely seen on Irish restaurant menus, was one that he couldn't pass by. In Rick Higgins' magnificent shop, its counter the stuff of meat-lovers' dreams, there's a fridge of Thornhill duck (complete with heads, feathers and guts) mid-way through a dry-ageing process, many of them destined for the kitchen of chef Grainne O'Keefe at Clanbrassil House, and huge pieces of whiskey-aged beef on the bone. Higgins sells only free-range pork and makes Toulouse sausages and his own charcuterie on the premises. Rick is a fourth generation butcher who served his time with his father in Portmarnock before opening his own place in upmarket Sutton six years ago. "This is a good area for me," he says, "as there's a good demand for the premium products that I sell." In Higgins' ageing room behind the shop, two sides of Galician beef from a 12-year old animal slaughtered in Spain on January 8 have already been hanging for a couple of weeks. The sides have been imported with the spinal bone removed, in accordance with regulations which require this of any animal over 30 months of age. The beef comes from Gutrei Galicia, founded in 2007 by two brothers after 15 years spent working in abattoirs. It is marketed as Vaca Gallega (Galician cow) beef and comes from the Rubia Gallego breed indigenous to the Galician region of Spain, crossed with Friesian to improve the fat yield. The age of the animals at the time of slaughter is a minimum of seven years, and the meat is distinguished by its high level of streaky fat and great flavour. The animals are always free-range, grazing on the famously green pastures of Galicia, which gets nearly as much rain as Ireland. The cows, some of which have been milked, usually calve in their early years, and spend the last one or two years of their lives at pasture. The meat won gold at the World Steak Challenge in 2018. "This has been aged really well," says Rick. "It smells like Irish 30-to-38-day beef and it's more moist than our 60-day beef, because it has a much higher fat content. Ageing is all about temperature and humidity." Rick explains that he will get between eight and 12 cote de boeuf steaks and 10 to 12 sirloins from each side of the Vaca Gallega beef. By the time the steaks reach the table in Michael's, they will be close to 80 days old. Most of the steak served by Gaz in the restaurant is aged for between 32 and 36 days, but the higher fat content of the Galician beef lends itself to longer aging. What makes the Galician beef special is its age at the time of slaughter. Since the BSE crisis of the 1990s, most beef slaughtered in Ireland is under 36 months of age. In the US, it's usual to fatten beef cattle as quickly as possible and slaughter them as soon as they reach their optimal weight, as the preference is for the very tender meat that this method produces. The specific Galician cow that customers will be able to try at Michael's was aged 12 at the time of slaughter and was never milked. Its meat displays the intense marbling that comes with age and gives the beef a deep colour and flavour. In effect, this flavour develops as the animals grow old and fat. "Most people like a steak and a good bottle of red wine on a Saturday night," says Gaz, "but this Galician beef is for those who like to experiment and push the boundaries. The Wagyu was a learning curve for me and I'm keen to broaden my horizons." Given the cost of feeding the animals into their ripe old age, Gaz says that if he was taking a full margin, the steaks should be triple the price of the regular steaks on the menu at Michael's, but that he's prepared to take a smaller margin to bring the experience to his customers. Anyone interested should expect to pay about 65 per head for an individual steak; sharing steaks will cost slightly less. One afternoon last week, Gaz cooked a couple of steaks for Rick and I and a couple of friends. He seared them in rendered beef fat on the stove top before popping them into the oven for a few minutes to finish. "Look at the marbling," he said, clearly excited. "It's breaking down like the Wagyu, although the marbling is larger, and it has the texture of foie gras." After resting for a few minutes, we got to try the meat. The flavour was magnificent, the meat slightly chewier than Wagyu, but with an incredibly luxurious mouthfeel from the marbled fat that has rendered down during the cooking process. Even the fat on its own tasted wonderful. "I'm scared that it won't sell," says Gaz, keenly aware of the preference of many of his regular customers for very lean meat. "But I don't care. I'll eat it all myself if I have to." Having tasted it, I don't think there is any danger of that. Michael's is about to be mobbed by gourmands wanting to tick another eating experience off that bucket list. I see that Gordon Ramsay is in trouble again, not for shouting or general obnoxiousness this time (quelle surprise), but for opening an 'authentic' Asian restaurant in London. Wouldn't you have thought that he would know (or been advised - did he not hear about Jamie Oliver and the jerk chicken?) that it's not acceptable to purport to be authentic when one is plundering a cuisine not one's own? Cultural (mis-) appropriation is as hot a topic in food as it is any other sphere and anyway, who's to say what is and is not authentic when even we Irish, with barely a food culture to call our own, can't agree about what goes into an 'authentic' Irish stew, as UK food writer Felicity Cloake discovered when she researched the topic for her 'The Perfect' column in The Guardian. Anyway, that's a roundabout way of saying that I'm not judging the food that we ate at Xi'an Street Food one afternoon last week on the basis of whether or not it is authentic, but rather on whether or not we found it tasty and enjoyable. (And the answer is partly 'yes'. And partly 'no'.) I understand there's a branch of Xi'an in Galway that's a student favourite, and when the Dublin restaurant opened last year, we ordered a couple of times on Deliveroo. We were not overly impressed, but the problem may have been more with the length of time that it took to get to us than the inherent quality of the food, or lack thereof. Part of my disappointment with what was decanted from the insulated delivery box was that it did not hold a candle to the food that I'd eaten in New York at the phenomenally successful Xi'an Famous Foods - named for the first capital of China, the home of the terracotta warriors - which has several branches in the city. The menus of Xi'an Dublin and Xi'an New York have many items in common, but the two businesses are not connected. A social media post by my friend, Katia Valadeau - who blogs at properfood.ie and is a one-woman champion of small Irish producers and independent restaurateurs and retailers - of her lunchtime roujiamo burger, was the impetus for an 'in person' visit to Xi'an. And the food was substantially better that the take-out version. Burgers are not something that I associate with Chinese food, but this one looked fantastic, the lamb encased in a flaky, paratha-like bread. In real life, the contrast between the strong-flavoured, spiced, tender meat and the crunchy, slightly greasy bread is delicious; made even better with the addition of a piquant chilli sauce. Apparently, roujiamo are a popular form of street food all over China. Pork dumplings are crisp, chewy rather than soft, with a vibrant dipping sauce, while dry-fried French beans with pork mince are salty, spicy - and "the best thing on the menu" according to my son, who's a regular. (He's not a fan of the lamb burger, finding the full-on flavour of the meat de trop.) The house speciality of biang biang noodles - we went for the duck version - is moderately spicy, but the hand-pulled noodles are stodgy rather than slippery; there's a generous amount of duck, which we mined, but I doubt that anyone ever gets through all of the noodles. Our final dish, aubergine in a hot garlic sauce, is greasy, disconcertingly sweet and neither hot nor garlicy enough. Xi'an's menu states that its food is MSG-free (hip hip!), its beef is 100pc Irish and that its chicken and beef are Halal. At the time of going to press, a query regarding the origin of its pork, lamb and chicken had gone unanswered. There's always a queue outside Xi'an and I can understand why. The food is cheap, the portions are huge and some of it is pretty damn tasty. I'd go back for the burger and cheap and cheerful ambience. The bill for two (but enough food for four) came to 45. The rating 6/10 food 8/10 ambience 8/10 value 22/30 ON A BUDGET The roujiamo burgers are substantial; 7 will get you the pork, beef, chicken or veggie version, or 8 with chips or a soft drink. ON A BLOW OUT Pan-fried dumplings and biang biang noodles with lamb for two, and a bottle of house wine, will cost 57 before service. THE HIGH POINT Xi'an is a buzzy spot. THE LOW POINT Greasy aubergines in garlic sauce. Despite being one of the most basic, reflexive functions of daily life, swallowing turns out to be a highly complex activity. Normally, when food passes the back of ones tongue, its passage is no longer a matter of conscious thought. It is controlled instead primarily by the brain stem, which coordinates 55 pairs of muscles to make sure breathing stops, valves close the upper airway, the back of the tongue pushes back, the walls of the throat close in and the voice box elevates to get out of the way, so food drops safely down the esophagus. San Fermin is the legendary festival in Spain that celebrates bulls pounding through the cobbled streets each July. The fit, the brave and the not so sane crowd on to the narrow, medieval streets, dressed in white, and hold up their crimson red scarves waiting for the txupinazo to sound. It's the rocket that signals the start of the fiesta. Above them, balconies are filled with spectators, waving red scarves from a safe distance, waiting for the spectacle to unfold below. This is Pamplona, the capital of the Kingdom of Navarra, a city that has been immortalised by Ernest Hemingway. Tucked up in the north west of Spain, Navarra is 100km from San Sebastian and 400km from Madrid. It is a region that is famous for its fiesta, food and wine. As one of the most important kingdoms in the Iberian Peninsula, Navarra once stretched from Bordeaux to Barcelona, was the last to submit to the realm of Castilla and Aragon, and was integrated into greater Spain in 1512. It still remains fiercely independent and as an autonomous region it is allowed to set its own taxes, similar to the Basque country. Wine was first made here by the Romans, who planted vines 2,000 years ago, and the remains of ancient clay pots, which were used for storing wine, can be seen at the archaeological site, Villa Romana de las Musas. It is close to Puente la Reina, 'the crossroads of the ways', a medieval town where the two main routes on the Camino de Santiago de Compostela converge, which contributed to the continuing importance of wine in the region. Pilgrims travelling along the route appreciated the refreshment of good quality wine, and with a revival in interest in the Camino, it seems not much has changed. Bodegas Irache, a winery along the route, has a wine fountain on one of its outside walls, so that pilgrims can serve themselves a free glass of red wine as they continue on their journey. Now that's what I call hospitality. With all of this history, it does seem surprising that we don't know more about wines from Navarra, but to a certain extent, it has remained in the shadow of its more famous neighbour, Rioja. It is a significantly big region, extending 100km south from Pamplona, with altitude ranging from 300 to 750 metres, and is carved into five sub-regions by the River Ebro and its tributaries. With this, you get a range of weather and soils. Expand Close Navarra wines / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Navarra wines When I visited last year, I was struck by the differences in the landscape. It's cooler in the north, protected by mountains, with one of the biggest beech forests in Europe on the lower slopes before you get to the vineyards. Navarra is all about sustainability, so the wind that sweeps down from the mountains is harnessed and windmills dot the landscape, providing green energy for 50pc of the region. A 177km canal cuts through these hills, a hugely impressive irrigation project that channels water from the Irati River to the central and southern areas of Navarra, making it the vegetable basket of Spain and providing irrigation for vineyards. Then, as you move more inland it gets increasingly warmer, the soils become sandier and you hit the Bardenas Reales National Park, a 42,000 hectare stretch of semi-desert in the south east that was used as a location in Game of Thrones. There is a diverse range of styles of wine in Navarra, and because the region is not as well-known as Rioja or Ribeiro del Duero, many of the bottles carry the name of the grape variety on the label. There are also plenty of blends, so you'd need to look at the back of the bottle to get more detail on them. But typically, the reds are similar to the blends of neighbouring Rioja, with Tempranillo, Garnacha (Grenache) and Merlot, and to a lesser extent Syrah and Graciano. For white wine, it's mainly Chardonnay and Viura, and to a lesser extent Sauvignon Blanc. You are probably familiar with Gran Feudo wines, and some of the wines it makes come from the Tierra Estella region, close to the Basque country in the northwest. As well as its excellent red Reserva, Gran Feudo also makes a good quality rose. In the past, Navarra was most associated with roses, which are typically deeper in colour than the pale pink roses you get in Provence and are made from Garnacha. But this doesn't mean that they are sweet. They are in fact bone dry with a good concentration of flavour, which makes them particularly good to have with food. I have two in the line-up today (see panel, below). One of the wineries I visited, Ochoa, is based in the beautiful town of Olite. It is run by Javier Ochoa, but more recently his two daughters have become heavily involved in the business. Both have a considerable amount of experience and spent years working outside the family business. Adriana is a winemaker who studied oenology in Bordeaux and worked for Pichon Comtesse de Lalande in France, Torres in Spain and Yalumba in Australia; and Beatriz studied business in Navarra, Canada and Denmark, travelled extensively, and worked in the UK before heading back home. Although their father is chief winemaker, he is very open to new ideas, and one of the most important decisions they made was to go for organic accreditation. This has had a huge influence on the way they work. As we headed out into the vineyards, which are mostly in the Ribera Alta sub-region of Navarra, Adriana pointed to a field on the right which she had planted with young olive trees. She had leased the land to provide a buffer zone around the vineyards as she was worried it may be planted with corn, a crop that typically is sprayed frequently with pesticides. Walking through the vines, I could see how healthy they were. In the spring, the ground between the vines is covered in red poppies; and as it was early autumn when I was there, the ground cover had dried out and there were hundreds of tiny white snails' shells scattered on the ground. I've never seen anything like it. A graveyard of minute snails, but there was nothing ominous about them. They had existed quite happily alongside the vines, doing no damage at all, and it was just a case of the circle of life. Far greater threats exist from the local root-eating moles who are more than happy to munch their way through the vines, but Kestrel boxes are set up around the vineyards to attract birds of prey who hunt them down. And there are also beehives in the vineyard to help with pollination. In case this all sounds wonderfully idyllic, it is not all plain sailing. Sometimes there are problems that cannot be dealt with through organic means, and a recent attack on the vines by a bug that damages the wood and affects the flow of sap, had meant that the only solution for Adriana was to grub up (remove) all of the diseased vines. Although most of their vineyards are located within 30 minutes of their winery, there are quite a few different soil types, with the vineyards which are higher up being considerably stonier. This means that they grow a range of varietals, and their wines range from white, rose and red to a delicious dessert wine, which is a bit of a pet project. Their winery, which is open to the public, is impressive and it is very interesting to taste the different wines, including the newer series being made by Adrianna. For more information, visit bodegasochoa.com Gran Feudo Rosado Expand Close Gran Feudo Rosado / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Gran Feudo Rosado 12.95, 13.5pc, widely available, including McHugh's, Nolan's, Jus de Vine, Donnybrook Fair, Redmond's, Dublin; Foley's, Sligo: Burke's Kinvara; O'Herlihy's and No 21 Group, Cork. A classic Navarra rose which is bone dry with a good intensity of fresh fruit flavours; ripe strawberries and raspberries combine for a refreshing tipple. Sonrojo Garnacha Expand Close Sonrojo Garnacha / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Sonrojo Garnacha 16.50 approx, 13.5pc, from Green Man Wines, Baggot Street Wines, Liston's, Lilliput Stores, Kelly's Off-Licence, Dublin. Crisp and refreshing, this rose is packed full of summer flavours, with freshly picked raspberries, strawberries and a touch of ripe cherries. Ochoa Tinto Reserva Expand Close Ochoa Tinto Reserva / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ochoa Tinto Reserva 20, 14pc, from Morton's and Hole in the Wall, Dublin; O'Donovan's, Cork. A Tempranillo blend that will appeal to Rioja lovers, this organic wine from Ochoa has a perfumed nose with generous flavours of mature cherry, blackberry and a soft touch of spice. Guerinda Tres Partes Tinto Roble Expand Close Guerinda Tres Partes Tinto Roble / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Guerinda Tres Partes Tinto Roble 14.65, 14pc, from Wines Direct at Arnotts, Dublin, and Mullingar From a winery run by three young winemakers, this juicy Garnacha allows its ripe flavours of lush cherries, loganberries and pomegranate to show through with the faintest hit of spicy oak. Tandem Ars in Vitro Expand Close Tandem Ars in Vitro / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Tandem Ars in Vitro 10.95, reduced from 14.95, 14pc, from O'Briens Suitable for vegans, this unoaked blend of Merlot and Tempranillo is unfiltered and has layers of juicy dark fruit with flavours of dark berries, damsons, and a savoury balance. Senorio de Sarria Crianza Expand Close Senorio de Sarria Crianza / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Senorio de Sarria Crianza 18, 14pc, from La Touche Wines, Wicklow; Carpenters Off Licence, Carlow Made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Graciano, Tempranillo and Garnacha, layers of red and black fruit, and a touch of cocoa and vanilla give a fullness to this wine which would go perfectly with roasted meat and stews. Former Green Party TD Mary White at her Blackstairs Eco Trails in Borris, Co Carlow Inside one of the Shepherd's Huts at Blackstairs Eco Trails, Co Carlow Mary White in one of her new Shepherd's Huts at Blackstairs Eco Trails, Co Carlow Did you hear the one about the woman who left Dail Eireann for a life of foraging hen parties, wild herbal workshops and cosy shepherds' huts? Driving to meet former TD Mary White at the eco-tourism business she now runs with husband Robert beneath the Blackstairs Mountains, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. Was this a worthy-but-woolly initiative I would applaud but have little interest in returning to? Or could it have the spark of something special? "People are exhausted when they come here," Mary said, welcoming me to Blackstairs Eco Trails at the couple's home near Borris, Co Carlow. "They are so stressed out. But they get a great night's sleep. We live in busy cities. We need to get away." I could relate to that. So, it turns out, could Mary and Robert. Expand Close Former Green Party TD Mary White at her Blackstairs Eco Trails in Borris, Co Carlow / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Former Green Party TD Mary White at her Blackstairs Eco Trails in Borris, Co Carlow In a former life, she was a Green Party TD; he ran a busy book-selling business in Dublin. When Mary lost her seat in 2011, they began building an eco-tourism business around their home, an old rectory set beneath the Blackstairs. They offer guided walks with afternoon tea (from 35). A barn dating from 1831 has been converted with eco-friendly insulation, organic paint and 'green cement' (which uses substantially less carbon). It hosts anything from yoga to lectures or cooking with hen parties, whose 'Foraging Hen' sessions (from 50pp) can include making garlic pesto, rose-petal ice-cream or nettle and cheese scones. "It's better than throwing up in Temple Bar," Mary laughs. I like that the eco-message isn't pushy. It just is. A Zappi electric car charger sits behind the barn. There's talk of going "off-grid" by using photovoltaic panels to harness solar energy. The handful of cosy 'shepherds' huts' (from 75) that made our Fab 50 best places to stay in Ireland this year were built by a craftsman in Mullingar. The taxi driver they use is a local farmer supplementing his income. Expand Close Inside one of the Shepherd's Huts at Blackstairs Eco Trails, Co Carlow / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Inside one of the Shepherd's Huts at Blackstairs Eco Trails, Co Carlow In a world where so many hotels persist with single-use plastics, from toiletries to water bottles, it's refreshing to find these creative ideas... without the preachiness. Most of all, I loved the positive energy oozing off this couple. Though we chatted for less than an hour, over homemade flapjacks, it was enough to absorb some of their can-do spirit and get a little recharge of my own. It felt invigourating to be around two people that made an inspiring change, work so well together, and don't seem to notice obstacles. Big hotels could learn a lot from this small business. As we spoke, Mary's phone pinged. "New booking," she chirped. "For two nights! Lovely!" Read more: The underlying organising principle of the UK constitutional system has been that parliament, not the monarch, and not people by referendum, is sovereign. This principle may not be contained in a written constitution, but it is a long-standing one. It was established in the 17th century by the outcome of the Civil War of 1646-69, in which parliament defeated the monarch, Charles I, and his ministers. It was reaffirmed by the revolution of 1688, whereby parliament deposed the legitimate monarch, James II. Parliament, not the king, became the source of legitimacy. In contrast, in Ireland, the Houses of the Oireachtas are not sovereign in the sense that, since 1937, it is only the people who, by referendum, can change the Irish Constitution. There is nothing in the Irish Constitution to prevent a second referendum on the same question. The developing clash this week between the government of the UK (the queen's ministers, to use the 17th-century term) and the majority in parliament, over the latter's rejection of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, is creating a crisis in the UK constitution. This crisis is derived from the fact that the UK government intentionally ran down the clock and delayed voting on the Withdrawal Agreement so that it could use the Article 50 deadline, and the threat of a no-deal crash out, to force parliament's hand. It is arguable that this level of pressure on parliament by the executive is contrary to the traditions of the UK constitution and the sovereignty of parliament. The government of the UK should, in accordance with those traditions, act as a servant of parliament, not the other way around. But instead the government is demanding that parliament vote over and over again on the same question, citing the idea that it would be undemocratic to have a second referendum on Brexit, and claiming that to respect the referendum result Theresa May's Withdrawal Agreement must be voted through by parliament. If parliament is to be asked to change its mind, there is no logical reason why the people of the UK, in a referendum, should not also be allowed to do the same. Politics is all about mechanisms for changing one's mind. The whole process of passing legislation through different stages is designed so that the legislation can be changed, amended or abandoned if parliament changes its mind. Changing one's mind is intrinsic to democracy. So it is actually undemocratic to claim that a second referendum would be wrong in principle, as some are saying. The Brexit saga shows the UK needs to revise its unwritten constitution, so as to define more clearly the respective roles of government and parliament in regard to international negotiations. This is a legitimate issue for the EU to raise. The EU needs to have a reliable negotiating partner in the UK. That is not really the case now. It is not just a matter of personalities or incompetence. The party system has broken down, discipline has been lost. The UK's straight vote system at election time polarises opinion artificially. The way parliament makes decisions on motions reduces complex questions to simplicities, and allows MPs to vote against everything without ever being obliged to compromise. In the years to come, the EU is going to have to negotiate with the UK, whether it wants to or not, on a vast range of highly controversial and divisive issues. It cannot afford to go through this week's drama over and over again on the various trade and other agreements that the UK must make with the EU, if or when Brexit goes ahead. The parliamentary system of government is, in many respects, a British invention, a British contribution to democratic governance. It is in the interests of the entire world that the systemic problems of the parliamentary system revealed by the Brexit saga are resolved, and quickly. Parliament needs to find a way of making decisions through a government in which it has confidence. The latest European Council conclusions require the UK parliament either to accept Mrs May's deal, or to indicate a different "way forward... for consideration by the European Council". If that "way forward" involves delaying Brexit beyond April 12, it will mean the UK holding European Parliament elections. Mrs May has set her face against that. A different "way forward" might also include a longer delay and a referendum. If it did, it would probably also need a different prime minister and some form of coalition or understanding involving the Labour Party and other opposition groups. It is hard to see all that being accomplished before April 12. With apologies to the great John Hume, if you are not confused about Brexit, you definitely do not understand it. The Derry icon often said that as Northern Ireland posed a new problem for every available solution across three decades. And now the North is seriously caught in the mounting Brexit morass. Two very tough days of tangling at the EU summit centre in Brussels have revealed that a UK no-deal crash out has merely been deferred for a fortnight. It remains as potent a threat as ever and will be hard to stave off on April 12. And UK Prime Minister Theresa May has increased fears that this will happen as she said she may not push on with a ratification vote next week and may revert to Brussels seeking further extensions. Mrs May clearly has a tin ear, unable to comprehend the frustrations and lack of confidence on show in Brussels over the past two days. The EU leaders believe they have done all they can. A no-deal Brexit - with calamitous economic consequences for Ireland, and threats of a return of the Border with the North - remains the default position. It will happen automatically unless something else is put in place. And already the EU is placing itself in a post-Brexit world. EU governments are increasingly annoyed that other projects are being neglected, like staving off another threatened recession, mending fences with the USA, dealing with the economic behemoth that is China, managing fractious relations with Russia, while facing the major challenges of migration and climate change. Ireland has moved on with efforts to cultivate other EU allies. On Thursday, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar joined Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte at a meeting of the Nordic-Baltic alliance. This so-called "bad weather alliance" is a grouping of smaller EU states committed to free trade and better EU economic cooperation. Mrs May's pathways towards leaving the European Union have been replete with twists, delays, U-turns and more than a few dead ends. Even those of us who have soldiered through the guff and jargon are at times left at a serious loss to explain and see a way forward. She did what was deemed a reasonable Brexit deal on November 25 last. But she has twice epically failed, on January 15 and March 12, to deliver the necessary UK parliamentary ratification of that deal. But in fairness to her, she has survived two no-confidence votes. In part, that tells us that nobody wants her job - for now. That, of course, will change once a Brexit conclusion of some sort is in view for the ultimate folly project. Staying with the few positives we can ever find from Brexit, the embattled PM did come back from Brussels with enough cosmetic changes to overcome the bolshie UK parliament speaker John Bercow's ban, reaching back to 1604 precedents, on her running the Brexit ratification vote a third time. Oddly, it is not clear when she will try again. Theresa May came to another EU leaders' summit on Thursday seeking an extension until June 30. After much disputation about timing and tactics, but without any serious divisions, EU leaders gave her only until April 12 to either pass her deal or come up with some kind of alternative. Against that, if UK MPs finally approve Mrs May's deal, the UK can leave the European Union on May 22 in an orderly fashion. Any further delay for any reason raises the question of holding European Parliament elections in a country already facing the exit doors. That's an absurd political scenario. But we are deeply into an era of absolutely absurd politics. The United Kingdom, or more specifically England, has lost its political sanity. There are no reasons to gloat about it because the economic consequences will be widely spread beyond their shores. Economists say a no-deal Brexit, with the UK reverting to World Trade Organisation rules, would spell major economic woe, especially for Ireland who is a major trading partner. But it would also hit Britain hard - after all they rehearsed a traffic jam along its south-east coast, hoping to prepare for the likely chaos at its ports, while Britons have been hoarding things as diverse as fridges, wine and chocolate, against a no-deal outcome. EU leaders have long voiced real concerns about a no-deal Brexit. But it was only on Thursday night, at the latest summit, that they really broached its implications. These include the fundamental contradiction of keeping the Irish Border open while also protecting the EU single market. Ireland still has a fight on here despite continued EU goodwill. EU leaders have also tried to help Mrs May. But they have run out of road with the prime minister since she has failed to sell the deal she did with them and keeps trying to wheedle changes to what her EU colleagues insist is a "done deal". After the deal was voted down in the UK parliament a second time on March 12, EU chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, basically said that the EU had done what it could do. It remains thus. Let's talk about smoking guns. The phrase originates in a Sherlock Holmes story in which a recently fired firearm, found on a suspect wanted for a shooting crime, is treated as compelling circumstantial evidence. An arsenal of smoking guns litter Theresa May's person, all pointing to her utter incapacity to deliver a negotiated Brexit. They include almost three years of talks that have gone nowhere, ludicrous ultimatums to Europe about caving in to British demands or there'll be no deal, chest-thumping promises that Brexit means Brexit, loss of ministerial colleagues, lack of preparation for the post-Brexit era, and a resounding failure to get her deal through the House of Commons not once but twice. In short, there is a stronger chance of Boris Johnson renouncing the world and joining an enclosed order of monks than an orderly Brexit happening under Mrs May's leadership. The British prime minister's negotiations with the European Commission have foundered on her Tube map of red lines meeting the reddest line of all - the Good Friday Agreement. Like a popped balloon, her vision of Brexit has collapsed on the Irish Border. And she is now a broken leader. The springs are sticking out of her back. A categorical refusal to acknowledge reality has been her undoing - and Europe has lost patience both with her and the parliament she does not govern. Far from taking back control, she has lost what little she had. This week, the European Council of Ministers said put up or shut up. Either the Withdrawal Agreement passes next week, in which case she can have an extension till May 22, the date chosen because it immediately precedes the European elections; or the deal folds (a racing certainty) and the UK's new departure date is deemed to be April 12. Of course, nothing is set in stone and a significantly longer extension is a likely scenario - although not without some new development in Britain, possibly orchestrated by Labour and the Scottish Nationalists, or alternatively a move involving the European Research Group (ERG) and DUP. No doubt, plots are fermenting but who knows whether they will bubble up to anything? Whatever happens, Mrs May is no longer a viable prime minister. It is almost as if Europe has granted her this extra fortnight out of courtesy to give her time to move out of Downing Street. Usually, her own party would have tossed her overboard long ago, but these are not normal times and she continues to stagger on, horribly wounded. Mrs May didn't seek Brexit but inherited it. Regrettably, she isn't capable of steering it through. In that, she's failing in her function. Yet she won't step aside, mistaking dogmatism for determination. Mrs May does not possess the political art of consensus-building and deal-making. Wise counsellors could compensate for that absence, but if there are any in her camp she is not listening to them. Her lack of political adroitness was shown yet again when she used her address to the British people to transfer Brexit wreckage blame onto MPs' shoulders. And she expects them to vote her way now? She has alienated parliament and public alike. If her world view was a rational one, Mrs May would watch her deal fail in Westminster next week and accept she's gone as far as humanly possible. The smoking gun evidence - her finger on the trigger of failure - would tell her she cannot achieve the necessary state of compromise. But Mrs May has two unfortunate characteristics: she is disconnected from reality and is extremely tenacious, meaning she'll limp on to the bitter end. Normally persistence is admirable, but it has long since solidified into inflexibility. Her first but not only mistake was to take the entire weight of the campaign on her own shoulders. She is not Atlas holding up the heavens, she is one woman - who has undertaken more than she is capable of doing. We know why. She preferred to make it a Tory Brexit, in the hope of staving off schism within her party, rather than reach across to opposition MPs. The Conservatives look set to split anyway and she will have sacrificed the common good in vain. Strong leadership is what every nation craves during a crisis. If she truly possessed leadership mettle, she would stake her position on a last throw of the dice: put the deal to parliament, telling MPs to back her or sack her. If they continue to vote down the Withdrawal Agreement, she resigns. However, she appears to have a sense of exceptionalism and destiny, regarding herself as the only person capable of delivering a negotiated Brexit. She even told the British people she was on their side this week, during that atonal address which aimed for harmony but clanged in the ears of Leavers and Remainers alike. Looking back over the exhaustive yet inconclusive negotiations, two hinge moments stand out. One was that July 2018 Chequers plan for the UK and EU's future relationship, when ministers were warned to back her or they would lose their transport and go home by taxi. They supported her in the moment - but drift soon set in and ministers resigned, including Boris Johnson, who warned she was saying one thing to the EU and something else to the British electorate. Then there was the December 2017 deal with special status for Northern Ireland, scuppered at the last minute by a phone call from Arlene Foster, who exposed Mrs May's weakness. Arguably the prime minister's most damaging miscalculation was in not facing down the DUP. She could have pressed on and put special status, an imaginative solution, before parliament. Would it have passed? We'll never know. But the DUP with its 10 votes was allowed to shoot it down without the Commons having a say. Meanwhile, ERG politicians continue to insist a no-deal Brexit wouldn't be so terrible. Do harsh realities impinge on the consciousness of Eton-educated MPs such as Mr Johnson and Jacob Rees-Mogg, where school fees cost in excess of 40,000 annually? Their world is more shock-proofed than most. As for the-people-have-spoken argument, it is not democracy in action to vote for something and wind up with something quite different. Britain is ill-equipped for a no-deal Brexit and many would suffer, as would citizens in Ireland, north and south. The Right Honourable Member for Cloud Cuckoo Land, rampantly over-optimistic about her deal-making abilities, has reached the end of her Brexit road. Mrs May cannot deliver an orderly withdrawal and needs to make way for someone competent to make progress. If she has any friends left in political circles they would be doing her a favour by pouring her a stiff drink and saying: Look, I'm going to give it to you between the eyes - it's time to let go. If cutting off your nose to spite your face ever becomes an Olympic sport, then we can look forward to increasing our usually abysmal medal count. The last week has provided a classic example of this very Irish trait and, as ever, it came from a rather predictable source. When Leo Varadkar went to Washington last week, he was doing what politicians are supposed to be doing - pressing the flesh and trying to improve Ireland's opportunities. But in the solipsistic echo chamber that passes for left-leaning political discourse in this country, Varadkar may as well have been guilty of some strange form of treason. He had, according to the angry letter writers in this newspaper, betrayed the people of Ireland. The emotionally unhinged lunatics on social media were busy lathering themselves into such a self-righteous frenzy that I'm surprised their heads didn't explode like that guy in Scanners. And, of course, the usual collection of lefty politicians were quick to voice their outrage. We've entered a strange, post-Catholic society which seems to have swapped one dogma for another. People who sneer at the idea of transubstantiation or other articles of Catholic faith seem quite happy to accept new ones, and most of these new articles of faith seem to revolve around Trump being the next Hitler. The only thing that enraged our moral guardians more than Leo's visit was Trump's announcement that he would like to reciprocate. The US president is due to visit Europe in June and then again in December and speaking to reporters in Chicago, the Taoiseach said he would probably make a stopover at the end of either one of those trips. What was more interesting, however, was the moral certitude of people like Ming Flanagan, Richard Boyd Barrett and Paul Murphy that the people of Ireland don't want Trump. It takes an impressive level of gumption to have the arrogance to become a politician in the first place, but it takes an industrial vat-load of chutzpah to think that you can speak with authority for the entire country. Yet speak they do. Endlessly. They've been busy these last few days parping the usual talking points and shop-worn phrases with such a religious fervour that I was half expecting one of them to say "that would be an ecumenical matter". The reality, of course, is that nobody speaks for all the country. Not the politicians, not the angry letter writers. Not even, dare I say it, the average newspaper columnist. How can one person dare speak for 4.78 million people? Of course, what they really mean is they don't want him to visit. But that doesn't sound quite as impressive. It's also another example of how happily the left will sacrifice the rest of us on the altar of their own weird convictions. It's often forgotten that we have received a large increase in visas since Tango One took office and he also promised to help us with our own undocumented Irish in America. Are those politicians prepared to scupper whatever amnesty hopes the illegal Irish have just because Trump gives them a fit of the vapours? One of the more baffling elements is how ill-informed or downright dishonest much of the debate has been. Flanagan went on a night-time news panel recently and declared that "Trump said Mexicans were rapists". Except he didn't. He was referring to the criminal gang MS-13, and the so called 'coyotes' who specialise in human trafficking and the gang rape of helpless female migrants. Similarly, we hear plenty about Trump's remark that "there are fine people on both sides" following the riots in Charlottesville. Again, that quote is out of context - he was talking in relation to Confederate statues in the south, and his follow-up caveat, that the neo-Nazis "should be condemned totally", seldom gets a mention. There are myriad reasons to look on Trump with contempt (his treatment of the media, his insane pettiness, the sense that he is simply out of his depth). But be aware of the hypocrisy of those who try to paint him as inherently deceitful while doing exactly the same thing themselves. If Trump really was that bad, why do so many people cherry pick his frequently ridiculous statements and then parse them in a way that he never intended? Even more depressing is the complete disdain for democracy displayed by those who say they speak for the country. What about the people who do want him to visit. Or don't they count? This is a democracy. People have the right to protest and we should cherish that right with everything we have. So let him visit and let the people protest as much as they want. But never trust anyone who says they "speak for the people". This year saw one of the largest St Patrick's Day ministerial exoduses in recent memory. In all Leo Varadkar and 36 of his ministers and senior representatives jetted of to take part in St Patrick's Day visits that took in a remarkable 57 countries. This year's St Patrick's Day goodwill blitzkrieg saw the Irish flag flying in capitals and major cities across Europe, the US, South America, Asia, Australasia and Africa. Figures released last week shed a light on the renewed focus that the successive Fine Gael Government's led by Enda Kenny and Leo Varadkar have placed on our national holiday and how it can be harnessed. Back in 2011 when the Fine Gael and Labour coalition came to power, the St Patrick's Day schedule saw just nine senior ministers travelling to eight countries, the majority in Europe with two ministers each heading to the US and Australia. Those were considerably more straightened times and, given the state of the nations finances, it is understandable that the newly minted Kenny administration wasn't too keen to be seen splashing the cash on pricey foreign junkets. In hindsight - given the benefits these trips often result in - that might have been a mistake but, politically speaking, one can see the Government's logic. While the St Patrick's Day trips are frequently slammed as expensive follies and pricey perks for pampered politicians the truth is entirely different. The St Patrick's Day trips provide the Irish Government, its senior civil servants and the country's leading business figures with a unique opportunity to sell Ireland to a global audience. Those yearly pictures of the Taoiseach handing over a bowl of shamrock in the Oval Office might be cringe-inducing but can you name the leader of another small nation that is guaranteed a one-on-one meeting with the US President every single year. It's a tremendous opportunity and one that many other world leaders would give their right arm for. Similar high level access is given to our politicians in capitals across the globe giving Ireland a powerful platform to press our international agendas and lobby for our interests. Given the Brexit turmoil that threatens to engulf us in a matter of weeks, there has rarely been a more important time for Ireland to sit down with our friends and allies across the world. One imagines Theresa May and the Brexiteer lunatic fringe won't have enjoyed the copious coverage of their Dublin adversaries basking in international affection. Their envy adding an extra shade of green to the weekend's proceedings. So, while the paddywackery and cliches that accompany our national day may feel a little twee, we need to remember that the event has a much more important side. Ireland's special place in the world - a remarkably influential one given our size - is down to a lot more than the luck of the Irish. It's about taking advantage of every opportunity that comes our way and St Patrick's Day, however mawkish, is one of the biggest. Vaccinations - a tricky subject and many would say it comes down to personal choice. That's difficult to argue though, because personal choice would indicate that a decision only affects the person who makes it, yet if an unvaccinated person spreads a contagious disease, then it quickly becomes the problem of another person or persons without their say-so. In Italy, a law had been reinstated banning unvaccinated children from attending schools and nurseries in a bid to combat the worldwide measles outbreak of late. They also fine parents who have failed to ensure their children receive relevant vaccines and while I'm not sure about this penalty, refusing enrolment to schools and creches seems like a sensible rule. There is a massive effort being made by some to scaremonger over vaccines, spreading unverified 'facts' designed to terrify people from availing of potentially lifesaving vaccines. While it is fine for a person to decide whether they subscribe or not, their actions go against the proven 'herd immunisation' method of eradicating disease. Though currently unavailable - some people decided the BCG which prevents TB was not required because 'nobody gets TB in Ireland these days'. Any why is this? It is because of vaccines and the uptake, which ensured that the vast majority of new babies were vaccinated and therefore the risk of others developing the disease lowered with each passing year. Why people cannot understand the benefit of this is mind boggling. At a time when we have Irish women living with terminal cervical cancer shouting from the rooftops of the benefits of the HPV vaccine, there are still people trying to discredit it. These women would not be ill, had the vaccine been available when they were children, so why would anyone want to deny the next generation that protection? In terms of measles, or meningitis, what one person may be able to recover from, could kill another, particularly if they have a weakened immune system and so by vaccinating citizens en masse, we, as a community are doing the responsible thing for everybody. Anyone who wishes to opt out of the vaccination scheme available to them is entitled to do so, but the potential risk they could cause to others cannot be overlooked. An appeal has been made by David Yuan Cao on behalf of his wife Lucy A desperate appeal has been made by the family of a local mum who has had life saving medical treatment in China, and now wants to come back to Dundalk where she and her family have called home since 2007. David Yuan Cao has launched the fundraising appeal on behalf of his wife Lucy. Just before Christmas last year, they received the heartbreaking news that 39 year old Lucy was suffering from a rare and life threatening liver cancer known as Itrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). She was advised to travel back to China where specialist treatment was more speedily available. Lucy had to spend Christmas in China, away from her young family, in order to undergo treatments which it was hoped would shrink a tumour found in her liver. Now, Lucy has been told she will have to remain in China as the tumor is currently too big to be operated on. The treatment plan to save Lucy will require the family to stay in China for up to two years, depending on her condition. The treatment is not covered by medical insurance or the Irish health system as Lucy is too weak to travel back to Ireland. The family have spent most of their savings on specialist appointments and treatments Lucy has received so far. As this is a rare illness the hope is that the treatment will reduce the size of the tumor and therefore she could have surgery. This operation is the only way to cure her illness. David said that he launched a 'GoFund Me' campaign to cover her targeted therapy medication expense. Her genetic testing was confirmed that two or three targeted therapy medications could help her. He explained: 'We knew Lucy condition could be serious, but we didn't expect that she would be diagnosed with a rare and life threatening Liver cancer known as Itrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma.' 'Lucy received the first TACE treatment to try to reduce the size of the tumor, and she had strong reaction to it. There was no chance to bring her back to join our children for Christmas as she wished. We hope that is the only Christmas for our family to be apart, not forever. In order to bring Lucy home, further treatment is needed.' In late January Lucy had a second TACE treatment. At the same time, the doctors found tumor was developing on her left liver, too. 'They strongly suggested us to take target treatment medicine immediately to control the new developing tumor.' Lucy has begun to take the targetted treament in China, where doctors said it will take up to twelve weeks to see the results. 'We hope that the second TACE treatment and the targeted medicine could help Lucy be well enough to travel back Ireland for further treatments.' He added that this specialised, and expensive, treatment has already used up the funds the family had raised and their savings. 'In order to bring my wife back home to Ireland and to save her life, I need help to fund two more treatments. I am asking for any help to support Lucy and our family in any way.' To support the appeal log on to https://www.gofundme.com/lucy-ling-yu-medical-fund A 21-year-old Englewood man was denied bail after he was charged with first-degree murder in the fatal 2018 shooting of another man in the Back of the Yards neighborhood, Chicago police said. Dundalk gardai are investigating a spate of burglaries over the last week, with break ins reported across a number of different areas of town. A garda spokesman confirmed there were seven burglaries recorded in just one week. A number of these were reported in housing developments off the Carrick Road. Thieves appeared to have broken into homes in search of jewellery and other items, including cash. Other burglaries were reported along the Red Barns Road, and the Newry Road. In one break in to a house along the Point Road, a window was smashed to gain entry to the property. The spokesman said that investigations are ongoing into all of the reported burglaries. Hundreds of budding young artists from across Louth are taking part in the national Texaco Children's Art competition. Adjudication of the thousands of entries from around Ireland is currently underway Texaco Children's Art Competition adjudicator Eoin Butler pictured during judging of entries in this year's competition, the results of which will be announced mid-April. In his hand is an entry by 12-year old Sarah Kilkenny, from Scoil Phadraig Naofa, Kilcurry, entitled 'Riding Free', The second entry was created by 18-year old Finn Nic Ruairi, from St Brigid's School, Dundalk, and is entitled 'Fairytale Castle'. Some 432 students from around County Louth are amongst those from all parts of Ireland who are taking part in the Competition, which is this year celebrating its 65th year of the event. With an annual entry of over 20,000 paintings, the Texaco Children's Art Competition is one that has touched the lives of virtually every family in Ireland at some time or another throughout its 64 year lifetime. In that respect alone, it is quite unique. The winners will be announced in April in a series of categories, and prizes will be presented at a ceremony in May. Wicklow based film director and writer Alan Gilsenan will be a guest speaker at the launch of the new edition of A Life in the Trees by author Declan Murphy. Declan Murphy released A Life in the Trees in 2017, centred on his love and appreciation for the Great Spotted Woodpecker. A new edition of his book has been commissioned by The Lilliput Press. A Life in the Trees is a personal account of a family of woodpeckers raising their young. The Great Spotted Woodpecker was originally a vagrant species primarily during the winter months. However in 2009, after years of observation and study, there was evidence that they had returned to Ireland to breed, much to the excitement of Declan and the entire Irish bird-watching community. Since then, the author has followed the daily lives of this species, some of whom had taken up residence in a wind-torn Spanish chestnut tree near his home near Glendalough. After graduating with First Class Honours in Modern English and Sociology from Trinity College, where he received the inaugural A.J. Leventhal Scholarship, Alan Gilsenan went on to direct as number of short movies and some documentaries. He directed two dramas last year, the Canadian-set Unless starring Catherine Keener and The Meeting, focusing on the true story of a young rape victim confronting her attacker. The launch is open to everyone and takes place on Thursday, March 21, at 6.30 p.m. at The Lilliput Press, 62-63 Sitric Road, Stoneybatter, Dublin 7. Soloist Niamh Murray, on behalf of Kilmacanogue NS, accepts a cheque for 1,500 from Fr Joseph Apust. A series of concerts which took place in Enniskerry at Christmas time raised thousands for local organisations. Organisers presented cheques last week to Wicklow Homeless Five Loaves, to Kilmacanogue National School, and to the St Vincent de Paul Society. Internationally renowned soprano Niamh Murray and the Enniskerry Concert Choir presented 'Joy to the World' in two performances last December at St Mary's Church in Enniskerry. They performed two wonderful concerts of Christmas favourites, which audiences thoroughly enjoyed. The annual concerts have become a firmly established favourite in the village, selling out year after year and attracting music lovers from all over Wicklow, Dublin and further afield. The concerts were preceded by Christmas afternoon tea in the Sumerhill House Hotel on the afternoon, prior to the evening performances. Fr Joseph Apust was delighted to be able to hand over cheques to the recipients. Niamh Murray accepted 1,500 on behalf of Kilmacanogue National School; Tom Carey was presented with 1,500 for St Vincent de Paul, and Fr Joseph gave Tommy Gordon from WH Five Loaves, a cheque for 2,200. All of the recipients were very grateful to receive the donations. The climate action march makes its way through Burnaby Park in Greystones on Friday. Photos by Barbara Flynn Hundreds of children gathered in Greystones last Friday afternoon to march on the municipal district offices for the climate change campaign. Around 500 people, primarily children with parents along to supervise, converged in Burnaby Park. They all had posters which they had made in school. They started off chanting to get the energy going, then walked down in procession to the offices of Greystones Municipal District. The crowd was mostly composed of primary school children. There, they presented their demands and posters to some of the councillors. Green Party election candidate Lourda Scott said that it was really energising and motivating. She said that the children had been learning about climate change in school and are extremely knowledgeable about the subjec.t 'For adults it was very encouraging and hopeful to see the passion from primary school children,' said Lourda. This was part of the global #SchoolStrike4Climate campaign, inspired by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. Children all over the country held protests, marches, and many made their way in to Dail Eireann to demand action. Gardai used the last known location of a missing Bray man's phone to pinpoint his location and ultimately find him. The man had rang his daughter on Monday morning to tell her he was in a field, he was cold and wet and that he could see the sea. After that, his phone died and his family were unable to make further contact with him. Jacinta Pritchard raised the alarm that her dad Paddy Hussey (83) was missing from the Boghall Road area, from at least as early as 6 a.m. on Monday, March 18. Members of An Garda Siochana in Bray and Greystones started to search along Bray and Greystones. One of the members of the traffic unit is a volunteer member of one of the mountain rescue teams, and he organised their assistance. Both Glen of Imaal Mountain Rescue and Dublin Wicklow Mountain Rescue assisted in the search and rescue. Members of Greystones Coast Guard also participated in the search. There was air support from the gardai as well as mountain rescue, and a large number of people on the ground, both gardai and members of volunteer services. Members of the public walking the cliff walk were also looking out for Mr Hussey. A spokesperson from Bray Garda Station said that they had been able to detect the last known location of Mr Hussey's phone, something they do only in emergency cases. The battery had run out of power after he phoned his daughter. The gentleman was found by mountain rescue personnel at approximately 2.30 p.m. near Kindlestown Wood. He was cold and wet but conscious. Mr Hussey was assessed and treated by mountain rescue personnel. He was airlifted to hospital from the scene, accompanied by a mountain rescue doctor. 'We would like to thank members of the coast guard, mountain rescue teams and air support units for their invaluable assistance,' said a garda spokesperson. Students from Loreto's peace and justice group were in Bray Library for International Women's Day, launching a poster art series on the themes of women's rights and 'on this day' historical events. This was in conjunction with the group '80:20 Educating and Acting for a Better World'. The posters were designed to celebrate past achievements in the women's rights movement, and also to look at similar and ongoing daily struggles experienced in the lives of women and girls in today's world. Some of the topics they explores were the gender pay gap, and education and 'the girl effect'. The students showed a sample of their work, including the most important issues for girls and women raised by the group in the poster work discussions and exercises. The peace and justice group were marking the centenary year of suffrage activities and commemorations as reference points for young people, particularly girls, to learn about and be inspired to act on women's rights. They were also reminded of the power of posters historically in generating conversations and interest in women's issues and as a mirror to highlight examples of gender discrimination and violence women face every day in public life, in the labour market and at home. Participants were involved in a range of cluster group activities over a 17 month period. They looked at violence encountered by women, the #MeToo movement, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and more. They also reviewed artwork from previous women's rights poster campaigns over the last 100 years. They met the chair of the Votail 100 committee to mark the centenary of women's suffrage in Ireland, Senator Ivana Bacik, and visited an exhibition on women's suffrage in the Seanad ante-room. The young women participated in hands-on poster art making workshops. They forged links, and shared peer learning across a network of teachers and students in Bray. Cork County Council has announced details of two new schemes to support the arts in the community. These are the 2019 Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme and Creative Ireland County Cork Pop-up Shop Scheme 2019, both funded by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Collaboration is at the heart of the Creative Ireland Programme and these funding schemes recognize the value of the community sector to County Cork's culture and well-being. The Grant Scheme aims to support communities in undertaking projects and events that are in keeping with any of the Creative Ireland Programme strands as well as the priorities set out in the County Cork Culture and Creativity Strategy, in addition to initiatives that will generate awareness of the Creative Ireland Programme as a whole. The Pop-up Shop Grant Scheme is geared at promoting a wide range of activities and is also intended to support a number of festival events throughout the County. Proposals under the Pop-up Shops Scheme can be submitted at any stage in 2019; however, only a limited amount of funding has been set aside for the scheme so applicants are encouraged to act quickly. Consideration will also be given to events that are being undertaken for the national day of culture and youth - Cruinniu na nOg - taking place on Saturday, June 15. The closing date for applications under the Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme is 12noon on Friday, April 12, to Conor Nelligan, Creative Ireland Coordinator, Cork County Council, Floor 3, County Hall, Cork or by email to conor.nelligan@corkcoco.ie. Friese, who was a parish priest at St. Cyprian in River Grove and later St. Juliana in Chicago, at first admitted to police that he molested the boy multiple times. But at trial he testified that hed lied to authorities as a self-sacrifice because he thought it would help the boy, according to Tribune reports, which said Friese was the first priest from the Chicago Archdiocese to be convicted of child sexual abuse. A quartet of brainy boffins from Scoil Mhuire in Kanturk have scooped place in a national competition aimed at uncovering the talents of the next generation of budding Irish entrepreneurs. The team of Grace O'Brien, Colin Buckley, Jessica O'Sullivan and Matas Karanavicius beat off stiff opposition from 10 other schools to win the prestigious 2019 Griffith Collage National Business Competition. It has turned out to be quite a momentous week for the foursome, who also took home a 'Best Business Plan' award from the North Cork regional final of the Local Enterprise Office sponsored Student Enterprise Programme with their 'Covet' mini-company. Last year the school was the only in the country to have two mini-companies 'Lonely Sock Inc' and 'Heavenly Hair' in the final of the competition, with the former just missing out on winning top spot. This year 'Covet' managed to go one better, winning 1,000 towards the cost of financing their business plan, a 500 bursary and the privilege of holding onto the Griffith Business Faculty Enterprising School perpetual trophy for the next 12-months. Prior to the final at the Griffith College Dublin campus each participating school submitted a project plan to help competition judges in their task. On the day the school's set up their projects at a designated stand with posters, slide-shows and examples highlighting each of their businesses Griffith College staff and the judging panel then visited each stand to inspect the products and ask questions. Once the showcase was completed, each school was given five-minutes to present their company to the packed auditorium and three-minutes to answer any questions about it. After a nerve-wracking wait the Kanturk quarter were unveiled as the 2019 winners, with St Mary's, Tralee coming second with their 'Recyclewise' and St Joseph's Community College, Mayo coming third with their 'Simple Road Safety' initiative. The head of the Griffith College Business Faculty, Seamus Fitzpatrick said the North Cork quartet were worthy competition winners. "We were very impressed with the quality of business ideas and presentations and it was a pleasure to witness the wonderful entrepreneurial spirit of school teams from across Ireland," said Mr Fitzpatrick. "The feedback from the participating teams and their very supportive teachers has been excellent and we congratulate not only the overall winners from Kanturk but all of the finalists and wish them every success in their future careers," he added. A "perfect storm" occurred last week at Bandon mart when word came through that ships would not sail to Cherbourg due to Storm Gareth, which resulted in "the dampening of the price of calves". That was the view of Sean Clarke, IFA Development Officer, who told The Corkman that the perfect storm was also tied into "the fact that it was the busiest week at the mart". "An exporter would be left with looking after calves during the night and the next day until they could sail," he said. He was responding to comments made by Senator Tim Lombard who attended the mart in Bandon and who told the Seanad that at the mart "1,800 calves went through, some of which were sold for less than 50 cent, when they were making 110 the year previously." However, Mr Clarke readily admitted that "calf prices are down" compared to last year. Moreover, he said that there are also a number of poor quality calves on the market, such as the jersey cross. "There is a saying that all greyhounds are dogs but not all dogs are greyhounds. There can be a huge difference in the quality of calves also," said Mr Clarke. "As I was saying, due to word coming through at Bandon mart that the ships wouldn't sail, and it also tied into the big volume of calves that were at the mart, well, it all led to a perfect storm," he said. Mr Clarke said that when ships did sail and the backlog was greatly eased, he said prices at the mart then went back up. He also said the WB Yates sailed from Dublin Port yesterday on its "first maiden voyage" with calves as part of a pilot scheme and, if successful, it will go three times per week. "Good calves are still making money but not as strong as it was before and poorer calves are getting poorer prices," he said. He also pointed to Brexit which is presently having a chilling effect on the farming community as farmers are "afraid to commit to anything" due to its uncertainty. Mr Clarke said: "We need to export 90% of everything that we are producing. Having said all of that, we will see a significant increase in the export of calves this year. Last year, 160,000 was exported and this year we will be up another 20,000." Headlines were made last week when FG Senator Tim Lombard reported seeing very poor prices for calves at Bandon Mart. Commenting afterwards, he said: "Last year, dairy calves were costing anything between 60 and 110. Yesterday, 380 bull calves were sold for less than 50 cent each. This is the stuff of 1960. It is bizarre that we have such an issue nowadays." He also said that dairy farmers will let bull calves go at 14 days old for that low price because it is not sustainable to keep them if they are running a dairy farm. He said the chaos in the market was not Brexit related because these calves were being exported to Continental Europe where there is significant demand for veal and calves. The calves, exported live, are held in lairage when they arrive in Cherbourg and are put in large sheds where they are fed and rested for 24 hours before they are moved on to markets in France, the Netherlands and Spain. It was the view of North Cork IFA chairperson Anne Baker that "compact calving" has resulted in a glut of calves on the market. "A huge number of calves have been born from February until now and this year in Ireland there will be an extra 50,000 calves born," she said. She said Friesian bulls and dairy calves is "where the real problem is". "I have heard of Friesian bulls being sold for 5 and that is the lowest price that I have heard. This time last year a Friesian bull (depending on its condition) would have sold for anywhere between 80 and 100, so to be offered 5 for a Friesian bull now is a dramatic drop in price," said Ms Baker. "For very intensive farmers, they will not be in a position to raise the calves over a prolonged period of time and again you have to consider the onslaught of possibly a hard Brexit. Farmers do not know what the situation will be with beef in two years time. People are also holding off buying any stock," she said. As with Mr Clarke, she also pointed to the sailing difficulties to Cherbourg because of Storm Gareth. "This would also have had an impact on price," she said. She also said that extra capacity must also be made on the ferries. She said the issue of space on ferries has been raised by IFA with the Dept of Agriculture and it was Ms Baker's view that "extra capacity is needed on the ferries along with extra periods of rest time for the calves". She readily acknowledged that members of the farming community she has been in contact with have certainly raised the issues of the price of dairy calves. But it was her view "that in a few weeks that glut of calves will be gone and the price of calves will begin to increase again." People across the north Cork region have been urged to avail of a Cork County Council initiative to adapt the homes of the elderly and those with a disability or mobility problems. Under the Housing Adaptation Grants Scheme, successful applicants will receive a grant to make necessary changes to their houses that will allow them to remain living independently within their own communities. Funding of 5.8 million has been set aside this year by the government and the local authority for the scheme, which has three key elements. The housing adaptation grant helps cover the cost of structural works to the homes of people living with a disability. These include the building of extensions and the installation of ground-floor bedrooms. The mobility aids housing grant helps with the cost of installing essential items such as access ramps, hand rails, showers, smoke alarms and stair lifts. The housing aid for older people category (for applicants over 66) makes provision for essential repairs such as rewiring, dry lining and the replacement of doors and windows, particularly in older houses. Funding of up to 30,000 per applicant is available under the housing adaptation grant; 6,000 under the under the mobility aids grant; and 8,000 under the housing aid for older people initiative. Cllr John Paul O'Shea (FG) has welcomed the roll-out of the 2019 scheme, pointing out that the total funding allocated to Cork County Council this year had been increased by more than 210,000 on the 2018 allocation. "Over recent years, there has been a huge volume of activity under the auspices of this scheme, with an ever-increasing demand for money to undertake what are often essential adaptations. Cork County Council will ensure as many older people, people with mobility problems and people with a disability as possible get the necessary adaptations so they can remain living independently in their own homes and communities," he said. Cllr O'Shea said changes in the eligibility criteria under the scheme in recent years should not put people off from applying for grants. "I am pleased that funding has been increasing year on year since 2014, and this shows the importance that is attached to the scheme," he said. "These grants have an immense impact on the quality of life of the many beneficiaries and play a vitally important role in helping people with a disability and people who are reaching an age in life when they are less mobile, to continue to live independently in their own homes." For more information about the scheme, visit www.corkcoco.ie and follow the links to the housing section, or the section directly at County hall on (021) 427 6891. The former Mayor of County Cork, Cllr John Paul OShea, making a presentation to Bill Gainer during a civic reception held in his honour at County Hall in 2016. Also pictured were the late Mr Gainers wife Gerry and Cork County Council chief executive Tim Lucey. Photo by Martin Walsh The County Mayor, Cllr Patrick Gerard Murphy, has led tributes a man whose drive and determination helped foster cultural and economic links between Cork, Chicago and the wider Cook County region. Bill Gainer, who served as the chair of the Cork Committee of Chicago Sister Cites since its establishment in 1999, passed away last week. Cllr Murphy said that Mr Gainer's "drive and charm" had made him instrumental in helping to establish fruitful commercial, cultural and friendship links between Cork its US counterpart. "In the years since the initial Sister County Agreement was signed, the enhanced commercial and cultural links have provided enormous dividends for Cork, largely due to Bill's dedication and energy," said Cllr Murphy. He extended his deepest sympathies and those of the people of Cork to Mr Gainer's wife Gerry, six children and their extended family. "Bill worked tirelessly to foster and cultivate connections between Cook County and Cork County. These connections are extremely important and beneficial and we are both grateful, and honoured, to have had such a relationship with Bill," said Cllr Murphy. The chief executive Cork County Council, Tim Lucey, said Mr Gainer's passing would be deeply felt by his family, community and his "many friends" within the Council. "On a personal note, I wish to record and acknowledge Bill's unwavering contribution to society," he added. The chair of the Cork County/Cook County Partnership and former Cork County Council employee, Ger Power, worked closely with Mr Gainer on numerous projects and initiatives. "Bill Gainer has been a great friend to Cork and a wonderful personal friend to many within the Partnership. He loved Cork and spent many memorable times here," said Mr Power. "His passing will leave a huge void for many of us. Bill was a wonderful friend and over the 20-years of the Partnership he was devoted to helping any company or individual from Cork who needed assistance in Chicago," he added. A Cork TD has queried if the overspend on the National Children's Hospital is going to have an impact on plans to expand facilities at Macroom Community Hospital. Speaking in the Dail, Cork North West Fianna Fail TD Aindrias Moynihan said that more than a decade after plans for the redevelopment of the hospital were first proposed nothing has happened. He pointed out that planning permission had been granted for works at Macroom towards the tail end of the last decade, but had been allowed to lapse in 2013. "There has been a repeated cycle of plans and commitments and all we are seeing is non-delivery. It's a massive failure for those who depend and work in Macroom Community Hospital," said Deputy Moynihan. "We need to see progress on this. We have seen community hospitals in similar positions make progress, but Macroom Community Hospital has slipped behind," he added. Deputy Moynihan pointed out that while the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) had praised the standard of care at Macroom Hospital, it also raised a number of issues of concern including patient privacy, storage space and the need to more away from the 'open ward' model to more private rooms. "The hospital licence was renewed (by HIQA) on the basis that plans for the redevelopment would be advanced. However, aside from the appointment of a design team about thee-years after the HIQA report, we still haven't seen concrete developments," said Deputy Moynihan. He said that late last year the HSE had informed him that 5.8 million was needed for the project and they were expecting the planning process to commence in the first quarter of this year. "It is now March and there is still no planning application. We need to get to the stage where planning is secured, funding is committed, works are underway and real commitment is shown to Macroom Community Hospital," said Deputy Moynihan. He accused the Government of taking a "very laid back approach" to Macroom Hospital, adding that there were fears that overspending at the National Children's Hospital could now have "negative consequences" for the hospital. "The Minister (for Health) must put energy and emphasis behind Macroom Hospital. He must give every support, including a commitment to funding and support as the project must still be released in order to apply for planning permission," said Deputy Moynihan. "It is imperative that the Minister give the hospital his full support." In response Jim Daly, the Minister for State for Mental Health and Older people, said he had visited the hospital in person and informed staff and management that the redevelopment project was at design stage and that planning permission was due to be lodged shortly "with a view to completion by 2021." In the last two years just over 2,000 people made their way to the famed Liscarroll Point to Point races and this Sunday, its organisers are expecting another bumper crowd. The races have been held for over six decades on the lands of Pat and Mary Ann O'Brien and as the track is left handed the point to point has been described as the "Cheltenham of the South". On Sunday, there is a six race programme for horses aged four years and over and the races are run on grassland and all races are over three miles. Michael Purdon, PRO of the point to point races, outlined that all point to point fixtures are governed by both Rules of Racing and the Irish National Hunt Steeplechase Rules. He said that a notable rule is that riders are to leave all red flags on the right and white flags on the left. While another rule is that all runners and riders must be declared to officials at least one hour before the advertised start time of each race. He, along with up to 20 other volunteers, have been working hard for the last seven Saturdays to make sure that their agenda for the day goes off without a hitch. "Volunteers are the life blood of the club and on Sunday there will be 80 stewards on duty for the day," he said. This year, Mary Kennedy of RTE's Nationwide will be on site on Sunday with her camera crew where they will be doing lots of interviews with the horse loving community. Last year, the Committee invited President Michael D Higgins and it was the first time that any president attended a point to point. President Higgins has close family ties to Liscarroll through his mother, Alice Canty. There is huge history attached to Liscarroll Point to Point and with that comes famed achievements. Denman, a hugely famous horse, was a Liscarroll graduate as he was trained locally by Adrian Maguire - himself a Gold Cup winning jockey. Denman is also a famed past Cheltenham Gold Cup winner. At Liscarroll Point to Point races it is not unusual to have riders wear racing silks for their well known owners. In the past, proud Limerick man JP McManus has attended the point to point races. Mr Purdon said that the entry fee for adults is 8 on Sunday but children are free as is the parking. While many parents will be keeping an eye on the track there is a huge amount of free activities for children to enjoy in a secure area and at a distance from the racecourse. The bouncy castles, face-painting, pet farm along with a display of a number of donkeys from the nearby Donkey Sanctuary are all free to enjoy. During the day, there will also be the waft of fresh baking by children as a competition will be held by both children in both Liscarroll and Churchtown NS. The children will bake at home and then bring in their cup cakes and exhibit them. Prize winners will receive rosettes and all students who take part will also be presented with a scroll. The children may just give the Great British Bake Off contestants a run for their money on Sunday. Mr Purdon said the upcoming fixture in Liscarroll received further recognition last week when 'Articulum' was placed third in the Arkle Steeplechase at the Cheltenham festival. "Indeed, there were multiple runners most days at the festival who have galloped over the famed track in Liscarroll," he said. "Everyone is really looking forward to the point to point on Sunday. We try to do something different every year to involve the community and we hope that people of all ages will enjoy their day," he said. The start time is 2pm and there is ample free parking in Liscarroll. While everything is being lined up for this Sunday, the only aspect out of the volunteers' control is the weather. A Cork TD has called for an overhaul of the Leaving Certificate appeals mechanism after it emerged one high-profile case last year cost the State almost 70,000. Cork North West Fianna Fail TD Michael Moynihan has said the current appeals process was" deeply flawed "and that revising it would result in huge savings for the State. Deputy Moynihan's comments came after he raised the issue of Rebecca Carter's appeal with Education Minister Joe McHugh in the Dail, asking how much it had cost his Department and the agencies under its remit. Ms Carter from Castlebridge in Co Wexford last year took her case to the High Court after she discovered that the outcome of her appeal against a grade in her Business Leaving Cert paper would come too late for UCD to admit her into its veterinary medicine degree programme. Her paper was subsequently upgraded, resulting in her achieving the points tally required to take up the course. Ruling in Ms Carter's favour, Mr Justice Humphreys said the current system current system was highly unfair to students and not fit for purpose and that he wanted to see it changed. He also awarded Ms Carter the costs of the action. In reply to Deputy Moynihan's parliamentary question, a statement from Minister McHugh revealed that the legal cost to the State Examination Commission (SEC) resulting from Ms Carter's appeal had totalled 69,265.44 and had been paid in full. He said that of the elements of the judgement, relating to counsel fess, were being appealed by the Minister for Education and Skills and the SEC. "The appeal is being taken in the public interest and will have no implications for the Plaintiff (Ms Carter) financial or otherwise, who has now secured her place in university," read the reply. Deputy Moynihan said it would also be in the public interest to undertake a complete review of the appeal process to ensure the situation never arises again. "The current appeals process is not only cumbersome, frustrating and stressful for the student having to go undertake a case, it is also extremely costly for the State," said Deputy Moynihan. He said he was shocked to discover how much Ms Carter's appeal had cost the SEC in legal fees. "The system itself is deeply flawed and fact that this case ended up in the High Court at all highlights the inflexibility in the process. The judge in the case stated that situation should not be repeated again," said Deputy Moynihan. He said that last year his party colleague Thomas Byrne had called on the then Education Minister Richard Bruton to identify reforms needed and implement them as soon as possible. "We are already two-thirds through the school year and cannot be faced with a similar situation this year. I am calling on Minister Joe McHugh to outline where this process is at and when the much needed reforms will be in place," he said. The well-known and very popular community worker and founder of the Over 60's Talent Competition, the evergreen Paddy O'Brien, has been bestowed with another prestigious accolade by the Rebel county. Mr O'Brien, who was the 2010 Cork Person of the Year, has named the Cork Person of the Year has been honoured by the Cork Civic Trust with their Corkonian of the Year award for 2019. The 80-year-old was nominated for the award by Cork City councillor Ken O'Flynn for his outstanding commitment and contribution to many community projects over the past six decades. He is perhaps best known as the founder and organiser of the Over 60's Talent Competition, which he established in 1977 to help combat isolation among the elderly and raise funds for the Irish Heart Foundation. Since then, the competition has evolved into one of the most popular and eagerly anticipated events on the Cork social calendar, with heats taking place in communities across the city and county. The Corkonian of the Year award was presented to Mr O'Brien during a black-tie bash at the Clayton Silver Springs Hotel. The event was attended by a veritable 'who's who' of Cork society including business leaders, Mr O'Brien's family and friends and politicians, including the leader of Seanad Eireann Senator Jerry Buttimer who led tributes to Mr O'Brien who was given a rousing standing ovation as he picked up the award. In his acceptance speech Mr O'Brien said he was deeply honoured and humbled to receive the award. "There are so many wonderful people out there who do fantastic work on behalf of the people of Cork and their communities who are far for worthy of this than myself," he said. "I am deeply honoured by this award and proud that my sons Ronan and Brian are here tonight with me," he added. On the night ten former winners of the Over 60's Talent Competition performed in front of guests. Although born are raised in Spangle Hill, Cork City, Mr O'Brien has strong links to the north Cork regions as his mother hailed from, Aubane, Millstreet. He told The Corkman he remains deeply proud of his links to the region, with he and his late wife Pat even going as far as naming their home in the city 'Aubane'. Mr O'Brien left school in 1953 at the age of 14 to work as a messenger boy and became involved in social work, running errands for elderly people. He arranged his first concert in 1957 and two decades later founded the Over 60's Competition, now in its 43rd year. "I'm thrilled and delighted to be able to give people the opportunity to go on stage to display their talents. The competition is now the biggest social event in Ireland for senior citizens, bringing great joy and happiness to so many people," he said. The husband of missing woman Tina Satchwell (47) issued an emotional plea for information this week on her whereabouts as Gardai said they have now pursued 330 different lines of inquiry and studied over 100 hours of CCTV security camera footage. Fermoy native Tina vanished without trace from her home in Youghal on March 20, 2017 - and her husband, Richard, used the second anniversary of her disappearance to issue a heartfelt plea for information as to her whereabouts. Mr Satchwell has consistently maintained that his wife is alive and that all he wants is for her to return home safe. In a brief statement, he pleaded with her to make contact with her family - or for anyone with information on her whereabouts to contact the family or Gardai. "My arms are open and always will be until I draw my final breath," he said. "I will never stop loving you." Mr Satchwell said his life has been a nightmare since his beloved wife vanished from their Youghal, Co Cork home two years ago. "The hurt and pain I have had to ensure these past two years. I almost find them at times (to be) unbearable. I live in a state of misery." Mr Satchwell said Tina's beloved pets were being cared for by him - and he previously said he greets a photograph of his missing wife each morning. He has also kept all birthday, anniversary and Christmas presents for his wife since her disappearance. Gardai admitted all leads in the case so far have failed to yield any clue as to solving the mystery over what happened to her two years ago. A senior garda source confirmed that they have no plans, as yet, for any further major searches following major operations off the Youghal coast and in an east Cork woodland. Ms Satchwell from Fermoy was last seen by her husband, Richard, on March 20 2017 when she asked him to leave their Youghal home on an errand. She was not at their home when he returned a few hours later. He reported her missing four days later. A huge garda search operation and an analysis of hours of CCTV security camera footage has failed to yield any clue as to what happened to Tina. Tina did not have a passport - and there was no indication she had purchased tickets to travel overseas by either plane or ferry. "At this point, all the indications are that Tina never left Ireland," the source said. Gardai searched CCTV footage from all Irish ports and airports without any sighting of Tina being found. Mr Satchwell has repeatedly pleaded with Tina to return home - and said his life has become a nightmare without her. "Every morning I wake up I am waiting for the door to open or the phone to go (to say Tina has been found safe)," he said. "That is a daily thing for me - even now." Mr Satchwell said there was nothing out of the ordinary on March 20 2017 to indicate his wife was about to disappear. "It was the same as any other morning - she got up and I made her a cup of tea and a slice of toast. It is something I will never forget." "It wasn't unusual for her to turn around and ask me to go shopping." "I thought nothing of it at the time. When I came back, the keys were on the ground. When she didn't come back I thought she was gone to Fermoy," he said. He raised the alarm four days later when he realised, to his shock, that Tina had not gone to visit relatives in Fermoy. Tina's relatives in Fermoy, Co Cork said they were too upset by the anniversary to comment publicly. Two suitcases were missing as well as items of Tina's clothing from the Youghal home on March 20 2017. However, her beloved dog, Ruby, was left alone in the house. Mr Satchwell also claimed that 26,000 in cash, saved from a property sale and the proceeds of car boot sales, was missing from the property. Last March, Gardai conducted a major 12 day search of a 40 acre woodland outside Castlemartyr in east Cork. However, that yielded nothing of significance in the search for Tina. No further such searches are currently planned. Join William Gallagher this Saturday, March 23rd at 3.00pm for; Are You Seated Comfortably?, a detailed look of the humble chair through the centuries, inspired by Mary A.Kelly's exhibition, CHAIR, at the Highlanes. William Gallagher is an independent lecturer in art and art history, who has previously contributed to programmes at the Highlanes Municipal Art Gallery, Butler Gallery, Kilkenny and Wexford Arts Centre via his writing and talks for the Janet Mullaney exhibition catalogue in 2015/2016. William curated at the Glebe House and Gallery in Donegal with the Derek Hill collection, running programmes for both the University College Cork and RHA, and even teaching art history at the Crawford College of Art in Cork, Trinity College and UCD. Chair has been generously sponsored by Anglo Printers, one of Ireland's leading and most innovative print solutions providers. Highlanes Gallery is open 6 days a week, Monday - Saturday, 10.30am-5.00pm, closed Sunday. Tickets are free but limited. Booking is essential and is available only through Eventbrite.ie John Gray, 50, said he comes by this street often to take his two young children to Northwestern hospital and to school. He lives in Old Town, just around the corner, he said. Its a nice neighborhood, but if its unsafe, he doesnt want to be there. The shooting makes him reconsider the safety of the neighborhood. He has won numerous awards since joining Termonfeckin Macra just six years ago, and now chairman of the local branch Eamon Briscoe is hoping to share his talents on a national stage. The Monasterboice farrier, suckler farmer and horse breeder is running for the Vice President of Macra in Leinster, and says joining Macra back in 2013 was one of the best decisions that he ever made. "I have experienced first-hand the huge benefits that being a member provides, helping me develop as an individual and providing invaluable opportunities and lasting friendships," says the Sillogue man. "In seeking this position, the core of my vision is to support, develop and service the members, clubs and counties of Leinster. Macra is a very encouraging environment for people to try out and embrace new opportunities but fear can be a huge barrier for people. For Macra to remain relevant and vibrant, we need strong participation and active members, for our clubs, counties and Leinster to thrive. If we have active members and clubs, we will have strong counties and a strong Leinster." Termonfeckin Macra is one of the most active in Leinster, and recently marked 70 years since its foundation with a celebratory bash in Drumshallon Forge. There are currently around 25 members in the branch and members range from 17 to 35 and over, with activities from public speaking to variety shows to suit all ages and tastes. Eamon has been on the organising committee of most of the events in the branch since he joined as well as charity and community involvement like the Monasterboice Fun Run to raise funds for local defibrillator services and Shave or Dye in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. "Macra is our organisation," adds Eamon. "I am seeking the opportunity to work over the next two years to make this vision a reality. I have no doubt that with the members of clubs and counties in Leinster working together, we can achieve anything. Eamon's main goals are to address declining participation and membership at club and county level by fostering active participation within clubs and counties, meetings and social activities (including travel), competitions, community involvement and practical support in the recruitment and retention of members. If you are interested in learning more about Termonfeckin Macra simply like and contact the Macra Tearmann Feichin Facebook page or contact Aoife on 087 6262197. Eleven teenage entrepreneurs from three local schools have won a place representing Louth at the Student Enterprise Programme National Finals in Croke Park on Friday, May 3rd. Every September through Local Enterprise Office Louth, entrepreneurial secondary school students begin their business journey as they are encouraged to research, set-up and run their own real-world businesses. The enterprise education initiative, funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities, is the most successful student enterprise programme of kind in the country. An estimated 26,000 students from 490 schools around the country begin their entrepreneurial journey every year with the help of their teachers, student enterprise co-ordinators and Local Enterprise Office. The students were all competing at the Louth Final, which was held at the Carrickdale Hotel. An estimated 1100 students from 17 schools took part in the annual programme locally. In the Junior Category, the student representing Louth at the National Finals in Croke Park is: Sarah Byrne from The Locker Doctor at Dundalk Grammar School. In the Intermediate Category, Isabel O'Toole, Julie Greene, Eimear Brennan, Aoibhinn Comer and Niamh Cummins of Movie Night Delights at Sacred Heart School, Drogheda will be representing the county in Croke Park. In the Senior Category of the competition, Louth will be represented on May 3rd by Alanna Tinnelly, Amy Ward, Ciara Sharkey, Fausta Razmaite and Sarah White from The Bin Bungee at Colaiste Ris, Dundalk. The County has a successful track record in the student enterprise competition, including Makes Cents from Sacred Heart School, Drogheda who won the Best Commercial Potential Award in the Intermediate Category at the National Finals in May 2018. Thomas McEvoy, Head of Enterprise, of Local Enterprise Office Louth congratulated the students, saying "We have a very successful student enterprise programme here in Louth, with over 1100 students from 17 local schools taking part this year. Our national finalists are excellent ambassadors for the programme and we wish them the very best of luck in Croke Park on May 3rd." He continued: "What our students are learning from the programme is that with the right supports and encouragement, they can take an idea from the classroom and develop it into a real-life business. The skills they learn along the way, such as business planning, market research, selling and team-work, will help them become more entrepreneurial throughout their future careers". Speaking at the County Final, Liam Reilly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, commended the students attending the County Final on their hard work and the high quality of the business proposals on display, saying "we hope the programme has given all a positive flavour of enterprise and entrepreneurship" before extending best wishes for "what looks like a very bright future for all". Further information around the Student Enterprise Programme is available from www.studententerprise.ie and by searching #studententerprise on social media. This Daffodil Day, March 22, the people of Drogheda will be able to donate with a tap of their bank card for the first time. Volunteers in the town will be out in force collecting for the Irish Cancer Society's Daffodil Day on Friday next, raising crucial funds for cancer patients and their families. Traditionally volunteers selling daffodils could only accept cash donations, but this year a number of volunteers will be manning SumUp Air units, offering the public a quick and hassle-free way to donate using their bank card, Apple or Google pay. Eleven SumUp Air units have been donated to the volunteers for use on Daffodil Day by SumUp, a financial technology company. The units will be available to use at locations around the town and users can enter their pin or simply tap their card to make a donation. Money raised will help the Society meet growing demands for its services as the number of people diagnosed with cancer increases annually. The Irish Cancer Society are determined to be there for everyone who needs support, but with the number of people getting cancer at a record high, not everyone is getting the support they need. By supporting Daffodil Day on March 22, members of the public can ensure families in Drogheda get the help they need to face cancer. Services include Night Nursing, a service that supports terminally ill cancer patients to stay at home during their final days. Last year terminally ill cancer patients in Louth received 260 nights of care, allowing them to remain at home during their last days. Local Night Nurse Joanne Mulvihill said of her work, "When I go into a family home, I am there to support the patient, and also their family members. I do my best to create a supportive and calm atmosphere at a very difficult time. Losing a loved one to cancer is heart-breaking. But I'm privileged to hear afterwards from many families what a source of comfort it was to spend those precious final moments at home with their loved one. When I finish my night shift, I go home knowing I have made a difference to my patient and their family. Donations on Daffodil Day make this possible." Local volunteer Lizanne Allen, who has been volunteering on Daffodil Day since it began 32 years ago, said, "In Drogheda we go all out every year to turn the town yellow and raise as much money as we possibly can to help those facing cancer. Every family has been touched by this disease, so it's a cause close to all our hearts. People locally are always very generous in their support of Daffodil Day and give what they can to ensure that every cancer patient in Drogheda can get the care and support they need. We are delighted that SumUp have donated the units to us for use, and that the people of Drogheda can donate to volunteers with a quick tap of their bank card and help ensure no one has to face cancer alone." Boots Ireland is the official main sponsor of Daffodil Day and local stores will be getting involved in the fundraising efforts. Over six years Boots Ireland have raised over 1.4m for the Night Nursing service. St. Oliver's Community College students Joseph Catlett and Andrej Gorochov have been awarded the most prestigious and valuable scholarship awards available to Leaving Certificate students. In a presentation ceremony in the University of Limerick attended by sponsor, JP McManus and Minister of State for Higher Education, Mary Mitchell O'Connor, awards were presented to 120 students from all counties in Ireland with a commitment to each county getting at least two awards. St. Oliver's CC students have been awarded six awards since 2008 culminating in the 2018 double award. JP McManus originally contributed 32 million in 2008 to the All-Ireland Scholarships. Ultimately, he will have contributed 66.5 million to Third Level Education, the largest amount by an individual in the state. The scholarships are set at 6,750 per annum in Ireland and stg5,500 in Northern Ireland and will continue for the duration of the undergraduate programmes chosen by the scholarship winners. They are awarded to top performing Leaving Certificate students attending non-fee paying schools. In announcing the continuation of the Programme for a further ten years JP Mc Manus said: "Barriers to participation in higher education for students can be complex and varied. Such barriers rob high achieving Leaving Certificate students the opportunity to access third level education. I hope that the decision of my wife Noreen and our family to fund a further ten year extension of the "All Ireland Scholarships" programme will help many students over the coming ten years to overcome those obstacles and build a better Ireland throughout the entire island." Joseph Catlett from Moneymore has been an outstanding student in St. Oliver's CC over the past six years with a particular talent for debating and performance to enhance his academic abilities. St. Oliver's Community College principal, John Halpin, reports his particular pride in Joseph's decision to continue his studies for his Engineering in the Netherlands. Andrej Gorochov scored the five H1 and two H2 grades in his Leaving Certificate with special talents in Mathematics and Sciences. He is currently studying Computers in Dundalk Institute of Technology. It is expected that Andrej will make a significant impact in his area of expertise in the coming years. St. Oliver's students participate in Languages Connect Exchange The Spanish Department in St Oliver's Community College is running a language exchange in March and April with partner school Alkala Najar in Alcala de Henares outside Madrid, Spain. Excitement is growing in the school as the group of 23 students and 2 teachers make final preparations for their upcoming trip. The group will spend a week in this old university town, honing their language skills and savouring Spanish hospitality and culture. Students will stay with host families and attend classes in Alkala Najar. Day trips to Toledo, Segovia and Madrid are part of the exciting itinerary of activities planned. The Spanish students will then pay a return visit to St. Oliver's and Drogheda from April 6th to 12th. This exchange is part of Languages Connect, Ireland's Strategy for Foreign Languages in Education. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to experience total immersion in the language they have been studying since first year. They will experience life with their host family, make new friends and learn to be more independent. The 2019 St Patrick's Day parade brought thousands of people onto the streets of Ardee - and they had the weather to smile about too. And one group maybe smiling a bit more than the rest was the crew of Wild Goose Lodge, the hit movie that has its sights set on China! Co-Producer and Director William Martin disclosed that the promotion of the film could hit the Orient now, having been heralded in various other parts of the world. It has claimed major awards in Britain and Australia already. 'It's wonderful to bring it all back homefor St Patrick's Day,' William remarked, as the crew, including Fair City's David Duffy, marched in unison. The day proved an outstanding success for the organisers with Grand Marshal Candy Holten delighted with the honour afforded her. As ever, the award winning Ardee Concert Band led out the parade from the Fair Green before passing the reviewing stand at the castle. Numerous local groups took part, from the likes of Ardee Celtic and Square United to the rugby club and the local archers. St Mary's Ardee were as colourful as ever with Glyde Rangers and Scoil Mhuire na Trocaire again backed the day with their entry. The Showbiz Kidz looked the part and the Syddan Foroige group put on the Greatest Showman. The Ardee Brigin were buzzing and the Sunday Bingo went all out. The Order of Malta also turned out in force. Bands from Drogheda and Co Down added to the occasion and there was the usual large entry of agricultural and commerical vehicles, North East ATVs from Collon, the Mid Louth Garage and Meade's supporting the event with the Ardee Collon Tractor run, King's Well drilling, Conachy's Garage and the Dee Vintage club who had a strong showing of old style vehicles. The Village Saloon in Dromin were promoting their Mayfest weekend from May 9th. The event took up to an hour to pass the reviewing stand with many acts stopping to perform. The organisation of the day was superb with local gardai assisting as well. A member of Wexford County Council has called for more stringent measures to be taken with regard to clamping down on people parking illegally in disabled parking bays. Cllr Johnny Mythen expressed concern over the matter to this newspaper in the wake of a meeting he attended at which the issue was raised. At the meeting - which took place in the Wexford IWA (Irish Wheelchair Association) centre in Ballycanew - it was highlighted that over 200 offenders throughout the county were charged with committing the offence over the last year. Cllr Mythen is now calling on the Minister for Transport to double the fixed-charge [penalty] notice issued to any person that illegally parks in a disability bay. He also said the minister should consider introducing a penalty points system for such offences. 'This serious issue came to the fore at the meeting held by the Irish Wheelchair Association last week,' said Cllr Mythen. He said service users in attendance expressed their dismay and disappointment that over 200 vehicles were illegally parked in their designated zones in 2018. 'They gave personal accounts of being verbally abused when they challenged some of these culprits,' said Cllr Mythen. 'Most of the service users felt intimidated and afraid and were physically shaken by these intolerant encounters,' he added. He said people who hold disability parking discs are urging local traffic wardens and the Gardai to be extra vigilant around disability parking bays. 'They also highlighted the need for drivers to respect their rights and not to park in their designated parking spaces,' said Cllr Mythen. Last year the IWA ran a 'back in five minutes campaign' that successfully highlighted the need for drivers to respect their parking zone and to be more aware of the unnecessary hardship they are causing for people who are totally dependent on their disability parking spaces to access local shops, public amenities and services. Two parcels of land in the Ferns area performed very well at auction last week. The auctions which were both held in the offices of Quinn Property in Carnew earlier this month were presided over by auctioneer David Quinn. The first parcel of land, 20 acres at Bolachoir, Ferns, saw 30 people in attendance. The lands which are situated 5km from Ferns are laid out in three fields with good road frontage. It had been guided at 200,000 prior to auction. On the day, bidding was brisk with an opening bit of 200,000 which quickly moved to 270,000 with two bidders. It was declared on the market at this stage with a new bidder entering. The hammer went down and the land was sold to an adjoining farmer at 300,000 or 15,000 per acre. Both the seller and buyer were delighted with the result. The second parcel of land was seven acres at Lodgewood, Ferns. Again 30 people attended the auction for the land which are located opposite the Wexford GAA Centre of Excellence. The lands attracted a good deal of interest and guided in the region of 80,000 to 90,000. On the day of auction, bidding started at 70,000 and with the help of four bidders it rose to 110,000 at which point it was declared on the market. A new bidder entered the frame at this stage and it was knocked down to this bidder at 132,000 or 18,900 per acre. Speaking afterwards David Quinn said: 'This was an excellent result and we have a number of disappointed under bidders looking for similar land in this area', Stephen Gaffney and Erica Keegan on the set of Red Room A Swords filmmaker is well on his way to making it to the big screen after his third feature film has been picked up for distribution by an American film production company. Stephen Gaffney, who owns Deep Web Film company with his girlfriend Erica Keegan, wrote and produced 'Red Room' which was shot in Fingal. Growing up, Stephen's influences were Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino and it's their 'dark side' that appeals to Stephen. 'Red Room' is a horror, film and it was shot in part in the filmmaker's native Swords. He said filming for 'Red Room' has been intense, taking place 18 hours a day for seven days straight and stars Brian Fortune and Eddie Jackson of 'Game of Thrones', Fair City's Ashling O'Neill and Red Rock's Amy Kelly. He said: 'This film took me around a week to write, whereas 'Class A' (his previous feature film) was written over two days but filmed over three months in different parts of Dublin including Applewood in Swords, Finglas and Cabrra,' he said. Red Room has now been picked up for distribution on DVD, iTunes, Amazon, Google Play and Xbox for home release on March 19. The movie is an intense film that explores the darkest sides of humanity and is 'not one for the faint hearted' according to the filmmaker. Red Room 'brings the terror of what lies in the deepest, darkest corners of the internet into the ligh with blood-soaked results', is the movie's chilling tag line. Partially Shot in Betsy Swords and Swords Main Street the cast includes Brian Fortune (Game of Thrones, Detainment), John D'Allesandro (Cardbord Gangsters), Amy Kelly (Red Rock) with Aisling O'Neil and Rodrigo Ternevoy (Fair City). The cast also includes ' A stand out performance ' from Swords-based actor Alan Sherlock. The film is written and directed by Written and Directed by Stephen Gaffney and co-written by his girlfriend, Erica Keegan, also from Swords. About 1 a.m., a 22-year-old man was standing on a corner in the first block of West Jackson Boulevard when he was approached by a female and two males. The female started pepper-spraying the man, and when the two males attempted to grab him, she stabbed him in the shoulder, police said. Drama pick - Casualty, BBC1, Saturday, March 23. 8.25pm - Duffy finally lets Charlie in on her big secret and tells him about her Vascular dementia diagnosis. Charlie decides that it may be best to pull her from the night shifts, when symptoms are most likely to appear. Meanwhile, new registrar Archie Hudson is thrown into the deep end on her first day after leaving her hospital induction early, and Connie reluctantly praises Elle's success. Sport pick Gibraltar v Republic of Ireland, Rte2, Saturday, March 23, 4pm. Gibraltar v Republic of Ireland (Kick-off 5.00pm). Darragh Maloney presents live coverage of the Group D qualifying match, which takes place at Victoria Stadium in Gibraltar. Commentary by George Hamilton and Jim Beglin. Factual pick Blue Planet Live, BBC1, Sunday, March 24. 8pm New series. Chris Packham, Steve Backshall and Liz Bonnin present a week of live programmes examining aquatic wildlife around the globe and the current state of the world's oceans as animals struggle to thrive in the face of increasing environmental pressure. Chris visits the world's biggest whale nursery in Mexico, Steve goes swimming with tiger sharks in the Bahamas, and Liz meets scientists performing experiments on coral to help preserve the Great Barrier Reef, while also encountering new-born turtles living on a nearby island. Soap Watch Eastenders Ruby takes centre stage in Albert Square this week. Phil considers Ruby's offer but after Sharon intervenes he returns her money and gives her a reality check. But still desperate for cash, he reminds Stuart of his debt, while Ruby drowns her sorrows in the Vic. Kush makes a deal with Mo to sell a batch of fake fur coats, only for Bex to make a worrying discovery about the stock. Denise suspects Mitch of stealing Patrick's valuable record and sets a trap for him. Later in the week, Ruby takes matters into her own hands as she sets out to get her own back on Ross, telling him she wants to make him an offer, while Matt opens up to Martin about everything that has happened. Whitney and Halfway consider their future, and Bex and Kush reminisce about Shakil. Kim returns from Scotland and encourages Denise to pitch her business idea to Patrick. Linda feels bad for forgetting the anniversary of Heather's death, so she hatches a plan to cheer Shirley up by arranging a karaoke for the locals to belt out a few of Heather's favourite 1980s songs. Denise hopes to convince Patrick to invest in her salon idea, but when Mitch hears about it he decides to pitch a barbershop to Patrick instead. fair city Emmerdale Rhona hides the reality of her situation, Kim tries to gain the upper hand, and Nicola spies an opportunity. A plan leaves Graham perturbed, Rhona is dealt a blow, and Maya attempts to win over Pollard. Rhona finds a confidant, Maya sparks an argument, and Jai is left frustrated. Fair City Jackie cancels a romantic date with Hughie to spend time with Pete, and Cass pushes Robbie too far. Orla finally receives her scan results, Jackie is honest with Pete about her feelings for him and Sash feels pressured to start dating again. Orla and Wayne worry about her upcoming appointment, while Guilt weighs heavily on both Pete and Jackie when they share an unexpected moment. Coronation Street Carla is shocked to learn Peter has bought a new boat and is leaving today. Kate urges to Carla to go after him and tell him how she really feels. As they stop outside Freshco's en route to Southampton, Ken sees a call coming through from Carla and before Peter can stop him he reveals they're parked up. Imran hands Rana a wedding gift from their mother and she breaks down, wishing her mum was there to share her big day. As the staff barricade themselves into the factory, Sally and Gina climb onto the scaffolding clutching homemade banners. Up on the roof, a row erupts between the sisters, where months of tensions come spilling out. Rana insists they go ahead with the wedding, and as she gets ready she calls Kate to tell her how much she loves her. Pauline McLynn, star of legendary comedy, Father Ted, has teamed up with Focus Ireland to launch Ireland's Great Get Together which aims to raise funds to prevent family homelessness and everyone in Fingal is invited to get involved. Pauline called on the people of Fingal and across the country to sign up to Ireland's Great Get Together which takes place on May Bank Holiday weekend, May 3 to 5. This is the second year of Focus Ireland's Great Get Together which sees people hold events such as a coffee morning, a movie night or Bar-B-Q and everyone who attends donates to help Focus Ireland's work. Focus Ireland said they need this support more than ever as a record total of nearly 10,000 people are homeless in Ireland. Shockingly nearly 4,000 of them are children (In 1614 families). They do not have that most basic need - a secure and permanent home. These children are often living with their families in one room in emergency accommodation such as hotels or homeless hubs. They do not have their own bedroom or somewhere safe to play and families often have nowhere to cook. Focus Ireland research has shown that even a short time being homeless can have a very damaging impact on a child. The charity works through its specialist family and child support services to help protect children every day from the impact of homelessness. Now you can make a real difference and support this important work in a very a simple and impactful way. All you have to do is register for Ireland's Great Get Together, pick the kind of event you would like to do at home, school or work and invite people to come along. Then your guests make a donation to fund Focus Ireland's work to prevent family homelessness in Ireland - it's that simple! The Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan scheme, which offers a Government-backed mortgage for first-time buyers, came under scrutiny during a recent meeting of Fingal County Council, when councillors raised what they called a sense of 'confusion' and 'panic' among the public, surrounding new applications for the scheme. Claiming there was 'a lot of confusion' amongst those who wished to apply for the loan, Cllr Paul Mulville (SD). said it was his understanding that interviews for the scheme had been cancelled for some applicants. Cllr Mulville's comments came in light of a report on the 2018 Housing Programme, which was being discussed during a full meeting of the council last week, in County Hall in Swords. The 'confusion' surrounding the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan scheme, the Social Democrat councillor said, was highlighted by one of the national newspapers recently, and was causing 'a lot of panic and worry' for applicants. Cllr Mulville said that clarification was needed from the Government on the funding of the scheme and he suggested that the Government 'is refusing to give us money, we need to get it sorted.' Sinn Fein councillor from Balbriggan, Cllr Malachy Quinn reiterating Cllr Mulville's sentiments, said that people were concerned that their 'last chance' of owning a home was gone, because they were 'earning too much' to go on the Council housing list. However, Cllr Darragh Butler (FF), speaking of social and affordable housing, said it was 'great to see, and it makes us proud that we're definitely among the premier leagues in the councils, in regards to the provision of social and affordable housing.' Cllr Quinn also raised the issue of the responsibilities of management companies and the council with regard to the maintenance of housing estates, where clarity was needed in cases where the management company was in charge of an estate and the Council also had properties at that location. Giving the example of Bremore Pastures in Balbriggan, Cllr Quinn said that, at that particular estate, there had been issues 'for two years' which had not been resolved. Cllr Quinn said that, with the management company claiming this was the responsibility of the council, the local authority had engaged with them but there was 'still nothing back.' 'I'm kind of lost, and certainly the tenant is lost regarding the issue', he said. Addressing some of the points raised in the report, Cllr Brian McDonagh (LAB) raised the matter of house price increases, and asked how the council would ensure that the cost of houses for land which the council builds on was as 'low as possible.' The councillor suggested a model whereby the State retained the land on which housing was built, and asked if the council was looking at such 'innovative models.' Cllr McDonagh raised the issue of 'large scale' price increases for what seemed to be 'very similar housing in very similar locations', which had seen an increase of 'up to 80,000' in the space of 12 months. Stating that the concept of affordable housing indicated that the rest of housing stock was 'unaffordable', Cllr McDonagh claimed the structure of the market was 'still broken.' Fears have been expressed over the integrity and security of ballots cast in Fingal in the upcoming local election after the County Sheriff announced the votes will be opened and counted in two different venues. At the March Monthly Meeting of Fingal County Council, members expressed their dissatisfaction with the proposal for the operation of the Local Election Count. This arises as, in addition to the Local Elections two other ballots will take place on the same day. Namely, the European. This year the Sheriff intends to take control of all ballot boxes at the end of polling day. It is his intention to have all the boxes from across the four Dublin local authorities brought to the RDS where the boxes will be opened and reconciled. At this point the Fingal Local Election Ballot Papers will be dispatched to City West Hotel in Saggart in South County Dublin for the actual election count. Councillor Cathal Boland raised the issue of this proposal and was joined in his criticism by several other councillors. Boland said: 'Local Elections are local and they should be counted in the county for which the election is held.' But apart from the venue for the count, Cllr Boland expressed concerns about the votes being transported to City West after the boxes had been opened. He said: 'The full process of an election should be open to scrutiny. Large numbers of ballot papers shuttling across Dublin is unacceptable.' Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) agreed. He told the Fingal Independent: 'This won't just delay the results because we won't get the votes at the count centre until the afternoon, there are obvious concerns about the integrity of the ballot box.' He said: 'We are going to have opened boxes of uncounted votes transported under Garda escort to City West.' 'For us, the concern is the boxes have been opened and we have lost sight of the votes,' he added. The concern over the decision was widespread among councillors who will have their concerns raised with the Sheriff in a letter from the Fingal Mayor. Fingal has celebrated the success of its students and schools in the 2019 BT Young Scientist competition, as Young Scientist of the Year Adam Kelly was recognised for his impressive achievement. Tributes were paid at the event on March 11 in County Hall, Swords to his family, his teacher Ms Lennon, and his school, Skerries Community College, for supporting and aiding Adam's winning efforts. Students, teachers and family in attendance from Loreto Secondary School in Balbriggan, St. Joseph's in Rush, Portmarnock Community School, Le Cheile Secondary School, and Colaiste Pobail Setanta were also praised and recognised. Adam's win continues a tradition of victory for Fingal students in this competition. In 2016, Maria Louise Fufezan and Diana Bura claimed the prize for Loreto Secondary School in Balbriggan. Adam's project, entitled 'Optimizing The Simulation Of General Quantum Circuits', explores efficient ways to mathematically model quantum computers. Quantum computing uses subatomic particles to drive computer calculations and processes. It is a complex, emerging field with exciting technological and scientific applications, including the possibility of increased computing speed and power. Following Adam's victory in the all-Ireland competition, he will go on to represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists which will be held in Bulgaria this September. Speaking at the celebration, Mayor of Fingal Cllr. Anthony Lavin said: 'It's highly encouraging to see so many Fingal students and schools getting involved and active in science. 'The discoveries made by Adam and the many other students who took part in the Young Scientist competition are already doing things that impact us all. From national to local issues, from climate change to commerce, we need the ingenuity and curiosity that these Young Scientists have shown.' Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid congratulated all the students involved for their wonderful efforts in the 2018 BT Young Scientists and Technology competition. He said: 'I would like congratulate everybody who was involved in this year's competition. Fingal is in great hands. Fingal has the youngest population in Ireland. It looks like and sounds like, and the experience is, that we have the most highly intelligent population as well. 'It is particularly great to see young women studying STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects, and it is very important to bring that pipeline through in the years ahead.' Fingal County Council has been active in promoting STEM to students and children, with Fingal Libraries hosting STEM Saturdays events. Following two fatal crashes in recent months, the Irish Aviation Authority has temporarily suspended the use of Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft in our out of Dublin Airport, and airports around the country. The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has decided to temporarily suspend the operation of all variants of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft into and out of Irish airspace, in the light of the two fatal accidents involving the aircraft in recent months. This decision has been taken based on ensuring the continued safety of passengers and flight crew, which is the IAA's number one priority, according to the authority. In a statement, the IAA said: ' The IAA has taken this decision pursuant to its powers under the Irish Aviation Authority Act 1993 (IAA Act 1993). 'The IAA's decision has been made taking account of the unprecedented loss of two Boeing 737 MAX in recent months. 'The IAA has been closely monitoring the situation, however, as we do not currently have sufficient information from the flight data recorder we have, as a precautionary measure, issued instructions to stop any flights on Boeing 737 MAX from any operator arriving, departing or overflying Irish airspace.' The IAA statement concludes: 'During the temporary suspension, the IAA will continue to work closely with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) and the manufacturer Boeing.' Three students from TY in Creagh College present a cheque to 2,626 to Sarah Louise Fortune of the IWA The kind hearted students at Creagh College handed over a cheque for over 2,000 to the Irish Wheelchair Association last week. The money was raised last November during the annual Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA's) annual Angels campaign. Last year Selina Power from the IWA Outreach Centre in Ballycanew was the coordinator for the IWA's Angels collections in Wexford and the surrounding areas. She said that 'Angels' is IWA's national campaign in which we seek to raise funds to ensure that IWA can continue to advocate for the needs of people with physical disabilities and provide services and support to over 20,000 members in their homes and communities throughout Ireland each year. 'The IWA provide a large range of services that help people with physical disabilities live the life of their choosing including driving tuition, personal assistance, day services, sport and activities and independent living' During the weekend long campaign Angels collections took place on streets and in businesses throughout Wexford town, Enniscorthy, Gorey and New Ross which Selina said 'forms a vital part of the IWA's fundraising calendar and the proceeds are essential in maintaining our services in the community.' She said that during the November campaign the IWA in Wexford asked local schools and in particular Transition Year students to help with the numerous collections. 'One of the schools that helped us out was Creagh College. The Transition Year students and their teacher Bridget O'Connor helped us to raise a whopping 2,626 for the IWA Wexford.' Last week IWA member Sarah Louise Fortune and Selina called into Creagh College for the cheque presentation. Sarah Louise had also helped with the Angels collection in November and attends the IWA outreach services three times a week. Both Sarah and Selina spoke to the students about the services offered by the IWA and also thanked them for their time and effort. The students also volunteered to help with this year's campaign on November 7 and 8. Gorey Community School will host a non-uniform day for all students on Daffodil Day, Friday, March 22. Students will be asked to co-ordinate the colour of their clothing with the same colour as their chosen ribbon for cancer. Ribbons come in a variety of colours to promote awareness and raise funds to support people fighting many types of cancer. There will also be a 'Coffee and Cakes for Cancer' morning in the staff room for all staff members. Tickets will be on sale throughout the week for a raffle which will be drawn on Friday. Live lunch time music in the quad has been organised alongside TY Mini Company stalls. One of the organisers Eibhlin Fitzpatrick said the student body wanted to raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society. 'The students at Gorey Community School want to show our support for Daffodil Day because we are all too well aware of the difficulties faced by both the sufferers of cancer and by their families. This, in turn, spills over into the entire community. 'These people are our friends and we want to raise awareness, not only among adults but among the younger generation too to let them know they are not alone, that support is available, and to show just how much we care. 'We are extremely grateful to the many local businesses, who have so very generously donated prizes for the raffle and bake sale. The entire community is showing tremendous support for our Cancer Awareness Day.' Councillor Malcolm Byrne has been selected to contact the upcoming European elections for the Ireland South constituency. Fianna Fail delegates chose Cllr Byrne at a closey contested selection convention in Clonmel over the weekend. Cllr Byrne has been a member of Wexford County Council since 2009 and is the current head of communications with the Higher Education Authority. With regard to his selection he said he was honoured to be chosen at a time of great challenges. 'The British parliament is struggling to find consensus on the way forward and concerns are growing across Ireland about the impact of a hard Brexit,' he said. 'I entered this selection process because I believe that now more then ever we need a strong and energetic voice in the European parliament,' he added. Fianna Fail party leader, Micheal Martin, said he is looking forward to working with Cllr Byrne on his campaign. He described the Gorey councillor as 'a dedicated, enthusiastic and talented candidate' who, if given a chance, 'will represent Ireland South with immense diligence and commitment'. Cllr Byrne acknowledged the work done by his party colleague, Brian Crowley MEP, who is retiring from politics. PSU study: Low-income neighborhoods more vulnerable to flooding, extreme heat Portland experiences both extreme heat in the summer months and frequent nuisance flooding in the winter and spring, and that's only expected to worsen with climate change. A new Portland State University study found the potential for flooding and extreme heat is most acute in East Portland's low-income neighborhoods that have fewer green spaces and larger concentrations of less-educated residents. The PSU research team -- geography graduate students Benjamin Fahy and Emma Brenneman, geography professor Heejun Chang and urban studies and planning professor Vivek Shandas -- mapped winter flood and summer heat hazard potential, then tested it against sociodemographic and physical variables at a neighborhood scale, including income, level of education, population density, green space and the amount of impervious surface area. This study focused on nuisance flooding, the kind of flooding that shuts down roads, overwhelms storm drains and seeps into basements. Their findings were published in the journal International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction. "Not surprisingly, those poorer, low-lying areas on the eastside along Highway 205 are disproportionately exposed to floods and urban heat islands," said Heejun Chang, a geography professor in PSU's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and director of the WISE research group or Water as an Integrated System and Environment. "Those are the potential target areas where the city needs to pay attention to." Among the findings: High-flood potential areas are located consistently in East Portland along Highway 205, while most low-flood potential areas are found in NW and SW Portland and near the NE-SE Portland transition along I-84. Most areas with high-heat hazards are clustered in East Portland, as well as North Portland and along major roadways, while low-heat hazard clustering is found in the western hills, central NE and SE Portland. The areas with the greatest combined hazard potential (both extreme heat and flooding) were clustered in East Portland, SE Portland and North Portland. Conversely, the city's western hills and central NE and SW neighborhoods - wealthier neighborhoods - showed the lowest risk. The methods used by the team are meant to be replicated by any researcher, practitioner or policy maker interested in identifying which regions of their cities are most at risk and what demographic factors characterize the most vulnerable citizens. Chang said planting trees is an easy and effective action to ease both urban heat and flooding. "If you can better manage land, you can better manage water in the urban areas," he said. "During the summer, trees can provide shading and reduce the heat island effect. But during winter, they can intercept the rainwater, hold water in the soils longer, and release water gradually." Chang said that in some areas where impervious surface areas are too high, green roofs might be a better alternative. He and his students are continuing to look at ways to expand green infrastructure to reduce heat and nuisance flooding potentials. Shandas has worked with Portland city officials to develop an online mapping tool to identify specific locations where expanding tree canopy can improve social and environmental conditions. Chang said cities also need to better educate the public, as the places likely to experience the most severe impacts of nuisance flooding and extreme heat often lack access to information and the ability to prepare for hazards. ### The PSU study is part of the larger National Science Foundation-funded Urban Resilience to the Extremes Sustainability Research Network, a project working to analyze the impacts of climate change on 10 cities in North and South America; identify risks and vulnerabilities associated with extreme weather events; and produce scenarios, transitions and plans for resilient urban infrastructure and systems. The other cities are Baltimore, Maryland; Hermosillo, Mexico; Mexico City, Mexico; Miami, Florida; New York, New York; Phoenix, Arizona; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Syracuse, New York; and Valdivia, Chile. The study was also supported by PSU's Institute for Sustainable Solutions. Shandas is research director of ISS, and Chang is a faculty fellow. This story has been published on: 2019-03-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. From the start of his investigation, Mueller and his team followed a consistent pattern. They would toil in silence for months, saying nothing about what leads they were exploring. Then often on a Friday they would reveal indictments packed with more detail than needed to substantiate the charges, though perhaps less than an insatiable public might have preferred. Smash hit comedy 'Furniture' is winging its way to Siamsa Tire at the end of this month for a two night run, with tickets currently on sale. Written by Sonya Kelly, 'Furniture' is described as "a lighthearted new play about perceptions and possessions. Told through the lives of six individuals, this fresh comedy looks at how the things we own shape our worldview, and even ourselves." Having received critical acclaim from both critics and audiences at the 2018 Galway International Arts Festival, Kerry audiences are surely in for a treat on March 29 and March 30 when it arrives in Tralee. With reviews such as 'wickedly insightful' (The Irish Times), 'laugh-out-loud funny' (The Sunday Times) and 'whip smart' (The Irish Independent) this fresh comedy is becoming a definite must see for 2019. Original cast members Niall Buggy and Garrett Lombard reprise their roles of George and Michael respectively, with Kate Kennedy, Ruth McGill, Rory Nolan and Helen Norton completing the stellar cast. I'm delighted that Druid's production of Sonya Kelly's Furniture will return as a national tour said Artistic Director, Garry Hynes. 'The huge success of Furniture at the Galway International Arts Festival this year shows that it is an exciting time for new writing and new talent in Ireland ." Shows start at 8pm each night with tickets set to cost either 21 or 26. Social commentators argue that people who feel alienated or forgotten are the voters who support Trump, Brexit, Orban of Hungary, et al. When individuals believe they are surplus to requirement, when they are considered unimportant, it is inevitable they will lash out and vote for those who promise to 'drain the swamp'.Hillary Clinton scored an own-goal when she called half of Donald Trump's supporters 'a basket of deplorables' in the run-up to the 2016 US presidential election. If you're unemployed, never feel listened to, you will be delighted to hear the Orbans and Brexiters of this world tell you they are going to keep the migrants out, so that you can get back to work. But it is not that simple. We live in a time when communication can be instantaneous and yet people feel so aggrieved due to a lack of information, whether it be political or in the place we work. In the churches too there is a chronic information deficit. Far too often the 'foot soldiers' are kept in the dark or drip-fed information that is unbecoming to their human dignity. Last summer Herzog Bring Centre in Dublin's Rathgar closed for renovations. The facility is called after Chaim Herzog, who grew up in Dublin. He was President of Israel between 1983 and 1993. A notice appeared at the site telling customers that it was closing on Monday, August 13 and reopening in October 2018. It was interesting that while the English version said it was reopening in October 2018, the Irish translation was more specific and said the Bring Centre would reopen on Monday, October 2, 2018. But believe it or not, October 2 was a Tuesday in 2018. October has come and gone and the Bring Centre has not reopened. Before it closed in August, I innocently said to staff, who work at the centre, that I'd miss the facility and was looking forward to its reopening in October. They looked at me and laughed, assuring me that it would not be opening in October. They were correct. In late October I contacted the City Council and was assured it would be reopening but they were unable to tell me when. On March 11, I phoned the relevant Dublin City Council department, hoping to learn when it would be reopening. I left a voice message but so far I have not received a reply. Since its closure there have been media reports about illegal dumping, which is a scourge and a crime. I read somewhere that council staff would be calling on households to check how they dispose of their waste. Modern data information means that waste disposal companies can supply councils with information as to who uses their services. I don't have any problem with that. But I certainly do have issues with such behaviour when a public body keeps its citizens in the dark, as has Dublin City Council done regards the opening of Herzog Bring Centre. Can you imagine how I would respond if someone from the council called to my hall door, asking me to show evidence as to how I dispose of my recyclable waste? On the one hand we live in times of instant communication and information and on the other we are left in the dark far too often by those who are entrusted to serve us. It's that high-handed behaviour that has given so much oxygen to an environment that allows the Trumps, the Brexiters and Orbans of this world to flourish. Alan Oliver of Lir and Frank Murphy of Monex presenting 10,000, the proceeds of the Charity Coffee Morning, to Madeleine Doyle, Pat Horgan and Mary OConnor of Down Syndrome Kerry at Lir Cafe, Killarney, on Tuesday. Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin A fundraising coffee morning in aid of Down Syndrome Kerry (DSK) is being hailed as a huge success after hitting double figures with their proceeds. The coffee morning was held in Lir Cafe just over two weeks ago and was the brainchild of Lir owner Alan Oliver, himself a prolific fundraiser for various charities; and Frank Murphy of Monex. In a very special twist, in the lead-up to the morning, Frank Murphy said that he would be matching the money raised on the day. Well, the notes and the cents have been counted and re-counted, and now the organisers are delighted to announce that they have successfully raised 10,000 for DSK. This is the third year of the coffee morning for Lir Cafe. The first year, they raised funds for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association in memory of Alan's own mother, who passed away from the condition. The second year saw the cafe raising funds for their chosen charity, Southwest Counselling. Down Syndrome Kerry's goal is to help people with Down Syndrome make their futures bright and independent by providing education and support. Green Party leader Eamonn Ryan was in Kerry last week to meet his party's local election candidates and rally the troops ahead of the council ballots in May. Mr Ryan was guest of honour at an event at Tralee's Rose Hotel, where he was joined by the party's Tralee area candidate Anne Marie Fuller; Dingle area candidate Michael Fitzgerald; and Cleo Murphy, who is representing the party in the Kenmare area. The Tralee event was hosted by Green Party Senator Grace O'Sullivan, who is contesting the European Election in Ireland South for the Greens. During his two-day visit to Kerry, Deputy Ryan took part in a number of other events. Those included a visit to meet local school students who were taking part in the national day of action as part of the young people's Climate Strike movement. There was a formidable Kerry presence in New York for the Big Apple's St Patrick's Day parade, with over 2,000 people flying the flag for the Kingdom at the world's oldest and largest Patrick's Day parade. As is tradition, the march's Kerry contingent was led down Fifth Avenue by the New York Kerry Patriotic and Benevolent Association - which this year is headed up by President Frank O'Keeffe, a descendant of Brosna - with stirring musical backing from the Kerry Pipers. Mayor Foley extended the thanks of the people of Kerry to the Association members, whose support has been critical in getting projects such as the Kerry GAA Centre of Excellence over the line. There were quite a few special guests among the Kerry group including Mayor of Kerry Norma Foley; Kerry County Council's Chief Executive Moira Murrell and the Reigning Rose of Tralee Kirsten Mate Maher, who was joined by a large number of her fellow 2018 Rose of Tralee finalists and their escorts. The parade was a highlight of what was a busy few days for Mayor Foley and Ms Murrell, who had meetings with senior staff from the IDA and Tourism Ireland and the Ireland America Business Council. They also attended the launch of a new Ireland US Business Review by the American Chamber of Commerce in the Irish Consulate building. More than 2,000 pairs of glasses were collected by New Ross Lions Club as part of their appeal to help poor people in Africa and China who can't afford spectacles. Lions Club President Ray Lawlor said the appeal was a huge success again in New Ross. Launched in November, the glasses were dropped into French's Pharmacy, Burke's Pharmacy and Byrne's Opticians in New Ross. Mr Lawlor said: 'The Lions Club project has been running in New Ross for five years. We always get a great response. We are very grateful to the general public and the retail outlets who allowed us to put our collection boxes in their premises.' The glasses were boxed and sent to Lions Club International headquarters in Nottingham, where they are graded and sorted, prior to being dispatched to Asia and Africa. 'They are for people with sight problems. It is one of the Lions Club's most successful initiatives and in this day and age there is the sustainable factor of something that is otherwise thrown away being used, which ties in with the whole green agenda.' Bernie Somers from the parade committee (left) and Cllr Anthony Connick, parade chairperson (right), with the parades grand marshals Martin Waters and Tom Doyle Huge crowds took the streets in New Ross on Sunday for what the organisers are calling 'one of the best St Patrick's Day Parades in recent memory'. With a total of 29 walking groups and 16 floats, there was plenty to see with the parade taking a total of 45 minutes to pass the viewing stand from start to finish. The theme for this year's parade was 'New Ross - 100 Years of Panto' and as it made it's way through town, the parade was littered with some of our favourite characters from stage and screen. The two grand marshals for this year were Tom Doyle, who has graced the St Michael's Theatre stage in the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s and Martin Waters, who took the stage with Tom 50 years ago in 'Old Mother Hubbard' and was also a key member of New Ross Pantomime Society for decades. Somewhat appropriately, New Ross Pantomime Society scooped the award for best float, taking their ship from 'Captain Hook' to the streets along with a number of the more colourful characters. Runners-up were Rathnure Panto Group who also brought some Disney characters to life. Best walking group went to 2 Many Dance Moves, closely followed by Ascension Cheer & Dance Group on what was their first year in the parade. Best Vintage went to Tullogher Rosbercon Vintage Club who had some marvellous machines on display, while the best topical went to New Ross Educate Together School for their colourful collection of leprechauns. The adjudicator's award went to Glenmill Transport for their hilarious interpretation of 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears' while the best shop window award, as voted by the public on the Visit New Ross Facebook page, was St Vincent's charity shop on Quay Street. 'It was definitely one of the best parades ever,' said committee member and local councillor Anthony Connick. 'The weather certainly helped. It was a lot warmer this year and the rain stayed away. That makes a big difference. But everyone really seemed to get behind it this year and everyone involved got dressed up.' 'Myself and the safety officer even dressed up as Laurel and Hardy. It was great craic. It was a real community effort and it made it bigger and better than ever.' The parade also saw some wonderful music, not least of all from the renowned New Ross & District Pipe Band and the HFC Brass Band, and was led off by an FCA colour party. All in all the parade proved to be a major success and the organising committee were keen to thank everyone who got involved, be it providing sponsorship, marshalling or taking part, for making 2019 such a great celebration. A Ghanian banana grower told St. Mary's students about the positive work Fairtrade does in her community, during an eye-opening, informative day at the school. Juliet Arku-Mensah, from the VREL banana co-op in Ghana. was accompanied by Fiona Saluk and Ciara Holland from Fairtrade Ireland for the talk. The event was attended by the school's active Fairtrade committee, all second year students, representatives from the Students' Council, principal John Michael Porter, staff members and a trad group which provided a taste of Irish culture for the visitors. The committee members started by explaining how and when they became a Fairtrade school. They emphasised that Fairtrade starts 'here in New Ross' by first supporting local businesses and buying Fairtrade products that can't be produced in Ireland. Fiona and Ciara then spoke about the importance of Fairtrade and the work carried out by Fairtrade Ireland. Following some traditional Irish music, Juliet addressed the audience about the economic and social benefits Fairtrade brings to her community. She gave details about the co-op where she works and her role within it. The Co-op produces conventional and organic bananas for Fairtrade and other export markets and employs more than 400 workers. Juliet is employed by the estate as both Fairtrade Officer and Occupational Health & Safety Officer. She oversees the implementation of relevant workplace legislation, such as providing training and protective equipment and for organising health screenings to test workers for diabetes, hepatitis, breast cancer, typhoid, HIV etc. The day concluded with more traditional music and a rendition of 'Falling Slowly'. Some of the County Wexford Youth Film Project crew at a screening of their film in Youghal Local short film 'Howdyville' has been shortlisted following its screening at The First Cut Film Festival in Youghal. Young filmmakers from The County Wexford Youth Film Project (CWYFP) travelled to the youth film festival to view their film on the big screen. They were delighted that their short film was selected for screening at the national youth film festival. 'Howdyville' was shot on the streets of New Ross and focuses on its lead character David, whose family move to a new town for a fresh start but he soon discovers more sinister undertones than he bargained for. Howdyville was also screened in the Odeon cinema on March 6 in Dublin as part of the Leinster Heat of The Fresh Film Festival. The group were delighted that two more of their films were also screened in Dublin this month. They were 'The Lone Writer' which was screened in The Odeon and 'The Kidnap of Jojo' which was screened at The Irish Film Institute. Co-ordinator of CWYFP Therese Dalton said: 'These films were created as part of a programme of free filmmaking workshops in St. Michael's Theatre. We are extremely lucky to have the support of the Arts Department of Wexford County Council and St. Michael's Theatre. They have continually funded and encouraged filmmaking amongst young people in County Wexford.' The County Wexford Youth Film Project continues to offer free filmmaking workshops throughout the year in filmmaking, acting and animation. Anyone who is interested can contact wexfordyouthfilm@gmail.com for more information. All are welcome. A 500,000 investment programme for native woodland restoration at Hazelwood on the banks of Lough Gill could begin later this year according to the woman heading up the project. "It's a superb site and we're delighted that we can do something positive with it," said Dr Aileen O'Sullivan who has worked extensively on biodiversity within the forestry sector, including restoration of bogs and native forest habitats. She has been an ecologist with Coillte, the Irish state forestry company, since 1999. She is also responsible for designing Coillte's new bio-classification system that was launched last year, allowing for integrated planning of key biodiversity sites to be managed effectively across the Coillte's 440,000ha estate. The 'BioClass' system aims to categorise key areas of ecological value, from very high to moderate. The tool enables Coillte to ensure its biodiversity areas are properly managed and resourced. To this end Coillte will spend 500,000 on restoring the northern half of Hazelwood which is classed as Special Area of Conservation. Some work has already taken place in this section where it floods from the Lough GIll and it has sprung back into life with plenty of natural species. Dr O'Sullivan explains how the work will involve the removal of invasive species such as Rhododendron and it may also include taking away some sycamore trees which is not native to Ireland and which tends to shade large areas. "We aim to do up a proper plan with the aim of having a positive effect," said Dr O'Sullivan. Such restoration work is expensive but Dr. O'Sullivan feels confident it will have a real impact on the forest which she emphasiss is one of of the most ecologically significant sites not only nationally but Eurpoe wide. "That's one of the reason we pushed for this for Hazelwood, it is a top notch site," she said. Dr O'Sullivan pointed out that the northern half of the forest fllods frequently but has a very biodiversity value while the southern half is drier would be most familiar to the general public and where most of the amenity activity talkes place. She hopes the habitat restoration programme could get underway later this year. And, once an area is restored to its native natural habitat, that doesn't mean the job is finished. "Rhododendron for instance always threatens to creep back in so it is a matter of keeing an eye on it. "We feel that the work we did some time ago in the northern half was a good success and it was lovely to see the native species springing back but we are constantly having to keep an eye on it," she said. A number of assessments have to be carried out in advance of any work but Dr O'Sullivan is hopeful of work getting started later this year. Rep. Steve King speaks during a town hall meeting in Primghar, Iowa, on Jan. 26, 2019. (Charlie Neibergall/AP) Participants in the workshop at the Glasshouse Hotel. Pics: Donal Hackett Last week, Sligo PPN hosted a community event, facilitated by Irish Environmental Networks and Development Perspectives. It was aimed at raising awareness of the SDGs in Sligo, exploring how community groups and organisations could embed them in their work and also highlighting their future importance when groups are looking for funding or support at both local and national government level. Part of the workshop also reviewed some of the key challenges that community groups see Sligo facing over the next decade, and how these align to the SDGs. Some of the key areas of concern include: * A lack of community facilities, and no physical or financial supports for communities to come together to initiate change Poor transport and pedestrian infrastructure * Total absence of support for renewable energy * Poor drinking water quality * Increased littering especially on roadsides and waterways * Lack of support for communities and the unforeseen toll this will have on isolation and mental health * Short sighted prioritisation of economic growth above everything else "The environment needs to be given equal footing with tourism and economic development, otherwise soon there will be nothing for Sligo to sell itself on." * Stronger voices needed in the North West to fight for our fair share of national services and infrastructure. Sligo PPN is officially taking a position to Support the Sustainable Development Goals. Find out more or receive a communications pack go to; http://www.sligoppn.com or email ppn@sligococo.ie / Tel : 071 91 14430 Freddie Parle pictured in Strandhill soon after his release in March 2008 Eleven years since being captured by Somalian pirates, Sligoman Freddie Parle is in the midst of writing a book about his experiences. The 79-year-old founder of the Sligo sub-aqua club was released from captivity on the 19th March 2008, following 47 days of captivity. The Sligo Champion reported at the time how Freddie was one of six hostages on a Danish-owned tugboat being held by pirates off the coast of Somalia. Freddie was the chief engineer on the 'Svitzer Korsakov' which was hijacked by pirates last as it travelled from St. Petersburg to Sakhalin Island, between north west Japan and Russia. "We just had to put our hands up and pray to God that they wouldn't shoot us," Parle told The Sligo Champion this week as he reflected on his capture. According to Parle, the boat they were travelling on was captured in the Indian Ocean and was then made to sail down the Somalian coast and anchored in a place named Eyl. Once anchored, the pirates demanded a ransom of two and a half million in return for those held captive. "The company was told two and a half million or else they'd kill everybody and drive the ship ashore," said Parle. "Ultimately, we realised of course that you don't shoot the hen that lays the golden eggs," he added. For 47 days there were negotiations going back and forth between the ship which was anchored about half a mile off-shore and the company that the crew had originally been working for, in Copenhagen. The company had chartered the tug to service offshore oil platforms. According to Parle, the pirates were not very adept and he had a feeling that this was the first ship they had ever captured. Nearby, another ship had arrived to stand by the captured crew. This ship contacted the pirates and told them if anyone tried to bring food out to feed the pirates on board, they would be in trouble. "We could see the shells skipping off the waves" said Parle. The pirates communicated with the captives via an interpreter with a severe case of jaundice. "He was pure yellow, and his eyes were all white he was a really sick man," said Parle. Within a week the interpreter had fallen down on his job and was being replaced by a schoolteacher of whom was told that once the job was finished he would receive $10,000. "He had to learn how to become a pirate," said Parle. Meanwhile, back home in Sligo, Parle's wife, Deirdre and four sons anxiously awaited his return. What was only meant to be a three- or four-week trip had turned into two months. "My son Derek more or less said, nothing will be said to anybody about this," said Parle. "He kind of took over as the family head," he added. According to Parle, Derek was in touch on a daily basis with Copenhagen where they had a professional team who specialised in the handling of piracies. "They knew what to do, they knew the psychology to employ and they knew how to talk to the pirates," said Parle. It was dragging on for so long a conclusion seemed a long way off, if ever. "It even got to a stage, about halfway through our time there, that guy who was the main man in Copenhagen, Mr Brown, said that he wouldn't be talking to the pirates tomorrow, as he was going on holidays," said Parle. "Can you imagine us in a life or death situation being told, oh, the guy that we're negotiating with is going on holidays, you can't be serious!" he added. Each day a call was placed to the company in Copenhagen and the interpreter would have the phone. "He wouldn't allow anyone to touch the phone, they were terribly scared that we would jump them," said Parle. According to Parle, in the end he was the one who negotiated the money. "I was fed up waiting and they were so inept" he said. "What do you say to a pirate? Excuse me could you give me the information on your bank account? They don't have bank accounts, so how are you gonna pay them?" said Parle. "There were hundreds and hundreds of these piracies going on at the time, lots and lots of money changing hands," said Parle. According to Parle, when you are dealing with these pirates every day, "you get very blase about them". "The fact that there's a Kalashnikov stuck in your face all the time, you get so used to it," he said. In the end, the final ransom payment for the captives was $700,000. "A lot far away from two and a half million," said Parle. When the pirates were leaving "they took everything they could get their hands on, they took our air compressor... anything that wasn't nailed down they took, and they disappeared." According to Parle, he is currently in the process of putting together an autobiography in which he will discuss his experiences of being captured on the boat. Eleven years on, he still remembers all the details clear as day. Jason McTiernan who says he spent a lot of his twenties literally asleep In his early twenties, an apprentice engineer from Ballygawley was diagnosed with an illness that would take him the next 11 years to recover from. At 20-years old, Jason McTiernan, full of ambition and on the way to becoming a toolmaker, soon had his plans disrupted once a seemingly benign bout of glandular fever developed into Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. McTiernan had previously noticed that he was very susceptible to colds and virus'. "Anything that was going I would have it" he said. After a period of time, the glandular fever did not improve. "I knew that something was wrong with my health, but I didn't know what or why," said McTiernan. "I got all the testing to exclude everything else, and then I got the diagnoses eventually of chronic fatigue," he explained. According to McTiernan, he felt a sense of relief once he was diagnosed with chronic fatigue, but this relief soon developed into hopelessness once he discovered that very few treatments exist to cure CFS. "I found quite negative information online about it and I was thinking that it was possibly going to be something that I couldn't heal from" he said. "I remember kneeling down and praying, I was crying at the time," McTiernan recalled. Very shortly after his diagnoses, McTiernan felt his life change drastically. Like most young people, McTiernan had enjoyed an active lifestyle. "I used to go out clubbing with my friends it was unusual for me to not be active and doing things" he said. "I took my health for granted, that I could just do things and I wouldn't be thinking about being grateful for my health and my vitality" he added. With CFS, McTiernan suffered daily from symptoms such as malaise, chronic fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, swollen glands and chemical sensitivity, to name but a few. "It felt like a really bad virus and a hangover combined, when I would wake up in the morning I would feel even more tired than when I went to bed even going for a short walk was too much," he said. "I was hoping that there was some kind of medication or treatment I could have to fix me and get better" he continued. McTiernan continued to suffer from constant headaches, susceptibility to virus', night sweats and anxiety. "I probably had a little bit of anxiety before... but when I was ill it definitely increased... there was so much stress going on about whether I was going to heal, my future was entirely uncertain" he said. McTiernan felt as though he had lost his whole sense of identity. "I really identified myself with engineering... I was itching to get back doing some work" he added. According to McTiernan it was a very challenging time for his friends and family also. "I lost contact with a lot of people" he said. "Some friendships are based on activities that you do and when you're not doing those activities sometimes a lot of those friendships are lost" he explained. McTiernan explained that he found it difficult to understand what he was going through himself. "I can see how difficult it would be for other people to understand" he explained, adding that "some friends stuck with me the whole way through". Over the years and to little avail, McTiernan experimented with several different treatments in an attempt to make CFS more manageable to live with. For those that suffer from CFS, few medical treatments exist. Those treatments that do exist serve to relieve pain and suffering as opposed to curing it. "If there was anything I thought that could help me to heal or to even notice some kind of improvement, I did it" he said. Treatments may include graded exercise therapy, medication to control pain, nausea and sleeping problems or cognitive behavioural therapy. According to the National Health Service, most people with CFS improve over time, although some people will never make a full recovery. When researching alternate treatments for CFS, McTiernan came across The Lightening Process. "I was a little bit sceptical to be honest when I seen it first" he said. "I bought into that kind of mindset that it was something that people used to convince themselves that they were well when they weren't" he added. Sceptics of the process claim that it forces people into doing something that they physically are not capable of doing. According to McTiernan, very few support systems exist for those suffering from CFS with minimal information on the condition being available on the HSE website. "I remember getting some support from the ME Association, I did something like reflexology and some other alternative treatments that definitely helped at that time" he said. McTiernan noted that CFS isn't something that is very well recognised in terms of its severity level. "Its severity level is on par with MS [multiple sclerosis]" he added. Eventually, McTiernan had enough and spent two weeks researching The Lightening Process and found several recovery stories of people that had been healed from CFS and related diseases. Some of these people had healed "in what seemed like ridiculously fast time frames" said McTiernan. In 2016, McTiernan did The Lightening Process. "I didn't know exactly what it was going to be" he said. The Lightening Process occurs over a period of three days, with five hours of training each day. "I was straight away walking, like two hours on the first day and then within two weeks I climbed two mountains and then in two months I was exploring the whole southern coast of Portugal walking up to nine hours a day," he continued. According to McTiernan, it is quite a simple process that teaches people to make changes to their thought patterns and physiology and to identify old patterns and stop them from occurring. "Me getting to the root cause was actually stopping that stress response" said McTiernan "I can see now exactly what led to me getting ill in the first place and then what kept it going" he added. McTiernan noted that he was under a lot of pressure in work, he would be the last person to leave in the evenings and didn't know how to say no to people. Over the past two years, McTiernan has been working with others in an effort to heal them using The Lightening Process. He has an office based in Sligo and runs a number of free seminars for those interested in learning more about The Lightening Process. McTiernan noted that even though results cannot be guaranteed with The Lightening Process, it has a large success rate and a growing body of evidence to support it. "Sometimes people ask me do I fear a relapse or being in remission and then going through a relapse, but I don't" he said. "Me getting to the root cause was actually stopping that stress response" said McTiernan "I can see now exactly what led to me getting ill in the first place and then what kept it going" he added. McTiernan noted that he was under a lot of pressure in work, he would be the last person to leave in the evenings and didn't know how to say no to people. Over the past two years, McTiernan has been working with others in an effort to heal them using The Lightening Process. He has an office based in Sligo and runs a number of free seminars for those interested in learning more about The Lightening Process. McTiernan noted that even though results cannot be guaranteed with The Lightening Process, it has a large success rate and a growing body of evidence to support it. "Sometimes people ask me do I fear a relapse or being in remission and then going through a relapse, but I don't" he said. Fact File Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disorder characterised by extreme fatigue that can't be explained by any underlying medical condition. The fatigue may worsen with physical or mental activity, but doesn't improve with rest. This condition is also known as systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown, although there are many theories - ranging from viral infections to psychological stress. Some experts believe chronic fatigue syndrome might be triggered by a combination of factors. Signs and symptoms may include: Fatigue, Loss of memory or concentration, sore throat, enlarged lymph nodes in your neck or armpits, unexplained muscle or joint pain, headaches, unrefreshing sleep, extreme exhaustion lasting more than 24 hours after physical or mental exercise. Sligo County Council believes a Special Area of Conservation may have to be impacted upon if a resolution is to be found to the Lough Talt water supply issue. In a statement the council says that in its previous planning application in May 2018 seeking the treatment plant's upgrade, it was accompanied by a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) which concluded that the proposed development was going to have a significant adverse affect on the integrity of the Lough Hoe Bog Special Area of Conservation. "Sligo County Council agrees with the conclusion of the NIS. However, because there are no reasonable alternative options, the Council considers that there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI) that justify consenting to the project despite its potential adverse affect on the SAC. The council statement goes on: "In such circumstances, a planning authority may only grant planning permission if the Minister for Housing Planning and Local Government agrees to this. "On 8th March last, Sligo County Council issued a Statement of Case to the Minister, indicating that imperative reasons of overriding public interest exist and proposing compensatory measures that are necessary to minimise effects on the Special Area of Conservation "A decision on the planning application will be made when the Minister responds to Sligo County Council." In May 2018, Irish Water lodged a planning application with Sligo County Council proposing to upgrade of the existing water treatment plant at Lough Talt. The Lough Talt WTP serves an extensive catchment of South and West Sligo supplying water to a population of approximately 14,000 persons. The council stressed that an upgrade is urgently needed because of public health issues caused by the deficiencies in the current treatment of the water supplied from the plant. Within the past 12 months, two separate boil water notices have been imposed due to the detection of cryptosporidium in the treated water. Pupils attending Scoil Chaoimhin Naofa celebrated World Book Day by dressing up as some of their favourite characters from books. There were quite a few Harry Potter characters along with princesses, 'Gangsta Grannies', Mary Poppins characters and many more. The creativity and colour was on display as each character strutted down the 'book character cat-walk' in the school hall. Over the last 22 years, World Book Day has become firmly established as Ireland's biggest annual event promoting the enjoyment of books and reading. Later, the school hosted a book quiz with children from first to sixth class in each team, answering such diverse questions as 'What colour is Peppa Pig?' to 'During what war was The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas set?' or 'Who wrote the book Holes?' Congratulations to the winning team of Hannah Cullen, Alanna Fegan, Emily Mahon-Devitt, Conor Merrigan and Kaylyn Murnane. Residents of Wicklow town are being urged to 'Think before you flush' after an eight foot long blockage was removed from the Bollarney Wastewater Pumping Station. The blockage was caused by inappropriate items being flushed down the toilet and was cleared by Wicklow County Council staff working on behalf of Irish Water. It was the third blockage experienced at the station all on the one day. The blockage was made up of wet wipes, cotton bud sticks, nappies and cotton wool pads which were flushed down the toilet rather than being placed in a bin. Speaking about the blockages, Annabel Fitzgerald, Irish Water said: 'We're urging all residents in Wicklow to 'Think Before You Flush', and to be mindful of the significant negative impact flushing inappropriate items can have on homes, businesses, the wastewater network, and the marine environment. The size and scale of the impact of flushing the wrong items down the toilet is incredible. 'Irish Water is investing in wastewater infrastructure right across the country. We are building new wastewater treatment plants, upgrading old plants and laying new sewers. However, it is still really important that people recognise the impact of what they flush so the 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.' Last year, Irish Water cleared more than 6,000 sewer blockages around the country which were caused by inappropriate items being flushed down the toilet. The contents of flushed toilets travel along the sewer network to wastewater treatment plants. However, every day people flush thousands of items such as wet wipes, cotton bud sticks, nappies and cotton wool pads down the toilet instead of putting them in a bin. Flushing these items can have a negative impact on internal plumbing in homes and businesses, the wastewater network and our marine environment. Students from Newcourt School in Bray show their project How much weight can spagetti hold? to Deputy Stephen Donnelly Ninety per cent of Leinster parents believe basic scientific knowledge gives their children an advantage in life, and a whopping 96 per cent want their children to learn science to develop critical thinking and life skills in primary school. That's according to research conducted on behalf of the RDS by iReach, commissioned to coincide with the staging of three major ESB 'Science Blast' events, the first of which took place in Dublin's RDS earlier this month. ESB Science Blast nurtures STEM skills (Science, Maths, Engineering and Maths) through entire primary school classes investigating a simple question about the world around them. Wicklow schoolchildren from third and sixth classes were among 6,000 students from 259 schools who presented the results of their chosen projects at the RDS. All 82 judges were suitably impressed as they walked the ten aisles, filled with hundreds of experiments, and thousands of energetic and exuberant children - not to mention the 6,000 or so yoyos that were handed out to students (and one or two interested educators). Around 3,600 primary school pupils from more than 140 schools will take part in the next ESB Science Blast in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, from May 21 to 23. The third and final Science Blast in Belfast will see over 2,000 pupils heading north on June 5 and 6. Richard Ryder, marketing manager at the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland with Niall El-Assaad, creator of the free fuelservice app for disabled drivers Disabled drivers in Wicklow will find refuelling their vehicles a little bit easier with the help of a new app. The free fuelService app, designed by Niall El-Assad was created to ensure that disabled drivers could avail of assistance at participating service stations, to save them the trouble of getting in and out of their vehicle to fill up. All Applegreen service stations have signed up to participate in the programme including Arklow, Coyne's Cross and Ashford and work is ongoing to attract other companies who are keen to offer the service. The fuelService app is free for users to download while participating fuel retailers pay a small fee per station to be on it. The Disabled Drivers Association is the charity partner for the app in Ireland and Applegreen was the first fuel retailer in Ireland to sign up to it. Mr El-Assad donates the entire proceeds to charity, with 50 per cent to the charity partner in each country and 50 per cent to spinal research worldwide. He created the app following a bike accident in 2013 which left him disabled. 'If you're not disabled, then you'll probably never realise how difficult a simple thing like filling up your car can be,' he said. 'If you can't get out of your car, then you simply have to drive from station to station trying to find one where the staff can help you, hoping you won't run out of petrol before you get there. Once you arrive, there is no guarantee that staff will notice you and come to your aid. You can only hope for the best as you flash your lights, beep the horn or wave your disabled driver badge around, but that's humiliating, particularly as other drivers have no idea you're disabled and just see you acting as a crazy person! It was a situation that was crying out for a simple yet effective tech solution that could be used by disabled drivers worldwide, so I am delighted and proud at how well the app has been received so far,' he said. To download the free fuelservice app, go to http://get.fuelservice.org The Valuation Office, the State property valuation agency, has commenced the process of posting Proposed Valuation Certificates to commercial and industrial ratepayers in County Wicklow. It is part of the revaluation of all non-domestic property in Ireland which is currently underway through a programme known as the National Revaluation Programme. It is important to note the proposed valuation entered on the Proposed Valuations Certificate is not a bill for rates but is a statement of the proposed valuation on which rates will be calculated from January 1, 2020. The Annual Rate of Valuation (ARV) is set by the Local Authority and current indications are that the ARV for 2020 could be 0.228. The ARV of 0.228 is an indicative figure set by Wicklow County Council to provide ratepayers with an estimation of what their 2020 rates liability may be and is subject to change prior to the issuing of final Valuation Certificates by the Valuation Office in September 2019. Any rate payer who is dissatisfied with any of the particulars on their PVC can submit representations to the Valuation Office within 40 days from the date of issue of their certificate The Valuation Office will also be holding 'Walk In' Clinics in each of the Municipal Districts in County Wicklow following the issuing of Proposed Valuation Certificates. Two clinics take place on Tuesday, March 26, from 10 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. and will be located in the Wicklow County Council County Buildings, Station Road, Wicklow town and Bray Municipal District Offices, Bray Main Street. Greystones Municipal District and Arklow Municipal district host clinics on Wednesday, March 27, from 10 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Finally, Baltinglass Municipal District Civic Offices, Blessington Business Park, host a rates clinic on Thursday, March 28, also from 10 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.. A similar process is taking place in other areas such as Cavan, Fingal, Louth, Meath, Monaghan, Tipperary and Wexford. Martha Kavanagh, Lucie Kindlon and Clodagh OSullivan from St Marys College, who won the junior title at the regional final of the Gael Linn competition, Comortas an Phiarsaigh, along with their teacher Aisling Ni Chuilin (left) and Gael Linn representative Nigel Govan (right) There were great celebrations in Arklow last week as students from St Mary's College won their first regional debating title in the Gael Linn competition. The school took the junior title at the regional final of the Gael Linn debating competition, Comortas an Phiarsaigh, at the Celbridge Manor Hotel in County Kildare. Comortas an Phiarsaigh is a national debating competition organised annually by Gael Linn for second level schools nationwide, with funding from Foras na Gaeilge. Over 150 schools have taken part in competition since the beginning of this schoolyear. Martha Kavanagh, Lucie Kindlon and Clodagh O'Sullivan represented St Mary's and faced strong competition from Loreto Abbey in Dalkey, Castleknock Community College and St Joseph's College in Lucan. The topic up for debate was 'Is meanar doibh siud ata ina gconai faoin tuath!' ('It's well for those who live in the countryside!'). While strong arguments were put forward on both sides, the consensus among the adjudicators was that the Arklow orators were marginally ahead of their opposition. On the school's first outing in the competition, St Mary's were were declared winners - to the delight of teacher Aisling Ni Chuilin, who mentored the team through the various heats to this regional success. The Arklow students will now take part in the all-Ireland final, which takes place on March 27 and where they will compete against teams from Athlone Community College, St Anne's Secondary School in Tipperary Town and Belvedere College in Dublin. Leah Weldon, Marguerite ODonovan, CJ ONeill, Lucy Mc Anaspie, Leah Carthy Walker and Amiee Bodell from St Marys College at the final of the AIB Build a Bank Challenge at the RDS in Dublin. Two groups of students from Arklow were among those to attend the national final of the AIB 'Build a Bank' Challenge at the RDS last week. AIB's Build A Bank Challenge encourages students to give back to their school and community, with participating teams engaging with their local communities and a variety of charities. The team from St Mary's College that attended the final included Marguerite O'Donovan (bank manager), Aimee Bodell (chief operating officer), Lucy Mc Anaspie (financial controller), Leah Weldon (marketing manager), CJ O'Neill (customer service/marketing) and Leah Carty Walker (customer service/social media champion). They created 'Lifeboat Loans' and chose 'Backing the Community' as their specialism for the project with the aim of raising awareness and money for Arklow RNLI. A team from Gaelcholaiste na Mara also decided to chose 'Backing the Community' as their specialism and decided to raise money for the Loaves and Fishes Cafe and Bipolar Bear Wear. The Build a Bank group included Hannah Lee Joung, Cait Laitheasa, Caoimhe Ni Chonchuir, Emili Nagys, Kate Connolly, Caitin Ni She and entrepreneur and mental health advocate Stephen Considine and they opted to called their venture 'The Bank of Mom and Dad: is closed'. Mark Doyle, speaking on behalf of AIB, said: 'Every year we are blown away by the creativity and hard work demonstrated by all the students, and this year has been no exception.' The AIB Build A Bank Challenge is one of the longest running schools programmes in Ireland for Transition and fifth year students and this year saw over 2,000 students from schools across Ireland lend their the support to over 100 school teams. Founder and CEO, Glossier Emily Weiss speaks on stage during 2018 Fragrance Foundation Awards at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center on June 12, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for The Fragrance Foundation) Founder and CEO, Into the Gloss and Glossier Emily Weiss speaks at the Fast Company Creativity Counter-Conference 2016 on May 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Fast Company) Founder and CEO, Into the Gloss and Glossier Emily Weiss speaks at the Fast Company Creativity Counter-Conference 2016 on May 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Fast Company) Glossier (pronounced Glossiee for the uninitiated) is 2019s newest, and somewhat unexpected, start-up unicorn. The beauty brand, which operates online nearly exclusively, raised $100m in funding last week, surpassing the $1bn valuation (it stands at $1.2bn) fulfilling the requirements for the moniker. A unicorn is a privately held start-up valued at over $1bn and includes global companies like Pinterest, Deliveroo, Reddit and Uber among its esteemed ranks; but, in the world of metaphors, Glossier was a dark horse before it became a unicorn. It was the brainchild of Emily Weiss, its CEO, when she was working as a fashion assistant at Vogue in New York City and she began working on a side project - her blog Into The Gloss in 2010. She noticed an opportunity to align her loyal readers with the right brands she was already featuring and monetise the brand recognition in a new, innovative way and in 2014, launched the first range of makeup products under Glossier. At its core, Glossier is a millennial messenger, not just because of Weiss 33 years, but its admirable ethos along the lines of ,'You are fine just the way you are, but if youre going to try out some cosmetics, why not look at what we have to offer?' While LOreal has long been sending the message that youre worth it, other, more nefarious businesses have made millions preying on womens insecurities instead of empowering them. Weiss, while working at Vogue, was privy to the inside track of consumer culture and identified a niche business model that few others did. She treated her blog with the same respect as the pages of Vogue and the corresponding e-commerce site is visually pleasing and gives magazine quality imagery for digital shoppers. As fast fashion brands use simplistic technology to shift their products online and luxury labels; digital presence is more aspirational than realistic, Glossier gives 'normal' women a chance to shop and feel special all the same. Over the years, it has been a strictly digital business, rivalling stores like Sephora and makeup counters at department stores worldwide; but, like Kylie Jenners eponymous cosmetics line, it needed a real-life push to get it past that billion dollar hurdle. The beauty is in its simplicity. Their business model cuts out the middle man entirely and instead of hiring agencies, the in-house team can directly identify demands and trends from their customer base. It is among the finest examples of utilising analytics available to so many businesses, but rarely executed so well. We are building an entirely new kind of beauty company: one that owns the distribution channel and makes customers our stakeholders," Weiss said in a statement after announcing the companys new value. Whats of particular interest is its relevance to Irish customers. Glossier ships to only other seven other countries outside Ireland, including the US, Canada and the UK, making it one of the core regions into which it can take at least some credit for its success. Video of the Day The Irish market is established as an exceptionally responsive one in the beauty world - for example, the Charlotte Tilbury, MAC and Armani counters in Brown Thomas are among the top three busiest in the world. Last year, the when Arnotts was brought into the Brown Thomas Group fold, the company began its investment of 25m into its digital output, supplementary to its already impressive cosmetics portfolio: a 9m Beauty Hall launched in 2014, Arnotts own 11m beauty floor refurbishment and the launch of the Brown Thomas Beauty Lounge in 2017. There is also a disproportionately high number of independent businesses, either from traditional backgrounds or influencer led collections, making their mark: Lucy McPhail, a former beauty buyer at Harrods, set up Fetch Beauty in 2018; while blogger Aimee Connolly's Sculpted range and Lisa Jordans LUNA by Lisa collection, have proven especially lucrative. For many, it may seem the market is oversaturated; for others, they simply can't get enough. Our long-standing devotion to all things beauty is reflected in the continued investment in our consumers in shopping meccas like Grafton Street, which Space NK and Urban Decay calls home. The idea of tangoed fake tan and too-long fake eyelashes is an out-of-date cliche. The modern woman wants beauty her own way and Glossier is the proof. Jade Goody will be the subject of a new Channel 4 series (Ian West/PA) Jade Goody and Jack Tweedy arrive for Celebrity Big Brother series five at Elstree Studios on January 5, 2007 in London, England (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images) Jack Tweed said he is unable to move on 10 years after wife Jade Goodys death (Chris Radburn/PA) Jade Goody's widower Jack Tweed has said he has been unable to move on and find love again, 10 years after her death. The former Big Brother star died of cervical cancer on March 22, 2009, at the age of 27 - just one month after she and Tweed married in an emotional ceremony. "I did try and move on, but I think I sort of rushed into it, and was trying to look for a replacement and it didn't seem to work. It wasn't the right thing," Tweed told ITV's Good Morning Britain. "I can't really, I don't really have that feeling. The same feeling that I had for Jade, I can't really feel that for anyone else. "So I don't think it's the right thing to do to get into a relationship." Tweed (31) was joined on the programme by Goody's mother, Jackiey Budden, who told him: "You have to, she'd want you to." He said it would "not be fair on the other person", but Budden added: "She would love Jack to be happy and have someone, she would. "She'd like you to have children and have someone." Tweed also said he frequently remembers Goody laughing, because "that's all she ever did". "Even right up until the end she was laughing, every single day. She was such a happy, positive person," he said. Video of the Day "You could never be down or depressed when you were with her." Last month, Tweed marked the 10th anniversary of their wedding, which took place on February 22, 2009, with a post on social media. Along with a selection of pictures from their wedding day and throughout their relationship, he wrote: "Ten years ago today I married my angel Jade, not one day passes with you not in my thoughts #jadeslegacy #raiseawareness #cervicalcancer #smeartest." Goody is survived by her sons Bobby (15) and Freddie (14), with her ex-boyfriend Jeff Brazier. Goody, who rose to fame on Big Brother in 2002, raised awareness of cervical cancer and the importance of smear tests before her death from the disease, which had spread to her liver, groin and bowel. Following her death she was hailed by cancer organisations for prompting an increase in people seeking information about the disease, and around half a million more women attended tests in the month after her death. However, screening rates have been falling since then, and UK charity Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust has now made calls for the NHS to roll out home testing for the human papillomavirus (HPV) in a bid to diagnose more women with the disease at an earlier stage. It's an annual favourite of ours at Weekend magazine, when we go behind the scenes of the ARC extravaganza to photograph some of the outfits from designers taking part in Ireland's biggest fashion show of the year. All proceeds from the show, produced by Eddie Shanahan, go to the ARC Cancer Support Centre, which provides a range of professional support, counselling and complementary therapy services to men and women affected by cancer (see page 20). Couturier Helen Cody will open Thursday's show with her distinctive imagination and craftsmanship. Last year's ARC show was a very difficult one for Helen. After years supporting the cancer charity, the Dubliner had just been diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer and was facing immediate surgery in an emotional month which also saw her get married and spend her honeymoon in St Vincent's Hospital. Twelve months later, Helen returns to the RDS as an ARC Ambassador, and having successfully recovered, her personal journey battling cancer will also be matched on the night by other survivors, like the ARC Angels who will take to the catwalk. Helen's former intern, Sarah Murphy, has created a special 12-piece finale for the show. Sarah has been making waves since she graduated from Griffith College Dublin in 2016 with a multi-award-winning knitwear collection and the highest fashion design degree ever awarded by the college. She has featured in Create at Brown Thomas and her current collection is sold at Havana in Donnybrook. Sarah's full-skirted red dress is made from laser-cut chiffon, tufted onto the back of net. It is part of her pre-fall 2019 collection, which was inspired by William Shakespeare's Richard III and features a mix of slogan T-shirts, as well as evening wear. Expand Close Red confetti dress with tulle underskirt, 950, worn with pearl-embellished hairband and black bag, both to order from Sarah Murphy, sarahmurphy.com / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Red confetti dress with tulle underskirt, 950, worn with pearl-embellished hairband and black bag, both to order from Sarah Murphy, sarahmurphy.com Sarah explains that she didn't study Richard III at school and the inspiration came one night when she was watching a programme about Richard, who was the last king of the House of York and the last of the Plantagenet dynasty. "I was watching that Channel 4 documentary, where they dug him up in a car park. I got this mad idea to make female versions of the kings from all of the works of Shakespeare and that is what the collection is about," says Sarah. In an exciting first, Leonora Ferguson will be debuting her first ever clothing range, with six pieces worn with the highly intricate lace-wire headpieces for which she is famous. A textiles graduate, Leonara used silk noil in the cream dress (pictured left), which has a lovely texture and dullness, yet it boasts a subtle sheen when it catches the light. The long dress features a circular inset of gold, laser-cut Pinatex. This interesting, ethical leather substitute is a sustainable textile made from pineapple leaf fibres, a by-product from the harvest. Leonora has worked in costume for productions such as HBO's Game of Thrones, Universal's Dracula Untold and, most recently, Syfy's Krypton. Helena Malone's dramatic draped statement-piece jewellery is where her 'Celestial Mechanics' collection meets her 'Pure Baroque' pearl collection. It features a series of handmade, hand-forged silver pieces with pearls and chrysoprase stones, all completely natural in colour. Helena explains: "I wanted it to evoke and signify the flow of seaweed and the lovely flow of the sea , just a gentle movement - but a firm movement, so it keeps its shape." At the ARC show, Helena will be showcasing three new statement pieces for the first time, so her keen collectors should watch out. She will also be dressing the ARC Angels for their walk down the runway. The slimline, red two-piece comes from Helen Hayes, who has a keen interest in couture finishes and techniques, and a life-long love of traditional, hand-crafted finishes. The duchess satin was cut with carpenter's tools and the squares were folded down individually, ending up half their original size. Sculpted like a patchwork, the effect is very architectural and the surface detail is fascinating. Expand Close Hand-forged recycled silver and baroque pearls showpiece, 2,900, Helena Malone, helenamalone.ie / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Hand-forged recycled silver and baroque pearls showpiece, 2,900, Helena Malone, helenamalone.ie Video of the Day Other designers taking part in the ARC show include Mona Swims, a resort-wear collection designed by Carla Johnson, who had just returned from a successful New York Fashion Week. Seasoned participant Sara O'Neill will be joined by fellow Northern Irish designer Fintan Mulholland, who will show his exquisite knitwear for the first time at the show. London-based Irish designer Colin Burke will make his first appearance at the show this year, too, with some wonderful knitwear. Rebecca Marsden is returning from London to show in Ireland for the first time in 18 months. Watch out for new names like Four Threads by Alanagh Clegg, artist designers Jill & Gill and innovator extraordinaire Alla Sinkevich! The full line-up of Irish talent also includes Amie Egan, Theo+George, FAO Millinery, a collaboration by Heidi Higgins and Aoife Kirwan, Niamh O'Neill, Charlotte Lucas, Aoife Mullane and a selection from the CIFD/DCCOI Collaboration Project. A selection of new season footwear from Brown Thomas will be used to accessorise the looks. Photography: Frank McGrath Styled by: Eddie Shanahan Models: Simona Va and Katie Geoghan from Catwalk Models Hair: Suzie Dowling for Peter Mark Makeup: No7 Rescue mission: Survivors of Cyclone Idai arrive by boat at an evacuation centre in Beira As flood waters began to recede in parts of Mozambique yesterday, fears rose that the death toll could soar as bodies are revealed. The number of deaths could be beyond the 1,000 predicted earlier this week, said Elhadj As Sy, the secretary-general of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. In addition to worries about the number of dead, Mr As Sy said the humanitarian needs were great. "They are nowhere near the scale and magnitude of the problem," he said. "And I fear we will be seeing more in the weeks and months ahead, and we should brace ourselves." Thousands of people were making a grim voyage toward the city of Beira, which although 90pc destroyed has become a centre for frantic rescue efforts throughout the region. Hundreds of corpses lay washed by the roadsides; others bobbed past, carried by the torrents of floodwater towards the sea. But what will forever haunt Graham Taylor were the screams and sounds of sobbing that echoed through the dark night from those clinging to life in the upper branches of nearby trees. The scale of the disaster unleashed by Cyclone Idai remains unknown. But Mr Taylor, a stranded motorist who survived, indicated the magnitude of the tragedy unfolding in one of the world's poorest countries. Caught in the floods unleashed by Idai after it made landfall near the port of Beira last week, Mr Taylor, a former Zimbabwean farmer living in Mozambique, abandoned his car on Monday and walked 24km along a raised road to safety in the village of Nhamatanda. His six-hour walk revealed a scene of "carnage and death". "People were on the rooftops and in the eucalyptus, mango and cashew nut trees," he said. On dryer land, hundreds of survivors searched in the dark for missing family members. By the light of his mobile phone, he counted bodies as he walked, estimating he saw up to 400 floating in the water or washed up by the current onto the road, where survivors and relatives stood over the corpses, weeping in grief. He believed the government's early estimate of 1,000 dead would prove woefully short. "I'm guessing, but it is well into the thousands - four, five, six thousand", he said. Mr Taylor's brief journey took him along one solitary stretch of road in a vast area of devastation. What has happened elsewhere is still anyone's guess. Volunteer pilots, the armed forces of South Africa and Tanzania and international aid agencies on Thursday stepped up desperate attempts to rescue tens of thousands still stranded by the floods. The US government announced its military would join the effort; Britain has flown in tents and rescue kits as well as pledging 12m (14m) for the humanitarian mission being mounted to feed and house hundreds of thousands who are homeless. Yet for many who survived the initial onslaught of Idai, it is already too late. A volunteer South African pilot at Beira's airport said he had seen up to 250 people stranded on a small hill surrounded by floodwater after flying south of the city. But by the time a rescue mission could be co-ordinated - delayed, the pilot said, after a local government official insisted on commandeering a plane to see the scene for himself - it was too late. The hill had been flooded over, with everyone presumed drowned. Instead, rescue efforts were often left to the surviving residents of Mozambique's villages. Mr Taylor said he saw scores of people forming human chains in the torrential water to walk out people who had been trapped for days. Nothing has come to symbolise Mozambique's disaster as much as its tree people. Dumping two feet of water onto the plains of Mozambique, the cyclone caused rivers to burst their banks and unleashed flash floods. When the first torrents of water flooded the villages, often with little warning beyond the roar of the torrent, those who managed to scramble to safety saw the trees as their only hope of salvation. Three days later, the trees had been transformed from places of refuge into dangerous prisons. Snakes slithered along branches, crocodiles lurked in the waters below. But the greatest enemy was weakness from lack of food and exhaustion. Sleep was the greatest danger: succumbing to it meant being tipped into the currents below and few can swim. To the south of Beira, there was no prospect of escape. Where there had been dry land just a week ago stood the world's 45th largest lake, a 3,150 sq km stretch of water created overnight. Special Counsel Robert Mueller yesterday handed in a long-awaited report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by US President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document's release. Mr Mueller submitted the report to Attorney General William Barr, the top US law enforcement official, the department said. The report was not immediately made public - Mr Barr will have to decide how much to disclose - and it was not known if Mr Mueller found criminal conduct by Mr Trump or his campaign, beyond the charges already brought against several aides. Mr Mueller, a former FBI director, had been examining since May 2017 whether Mr Trump's campaign conspired with Moscow to try to influence the election and whether the Republican president later unlawfully tried to obstruct his investigation. Mr Trump has denied collusion and obstruction. Russia has denied election interference. The Russia investigation has cast a shadow over Mr Trump's presidency and ensnared key figures including his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, national security adviser Michael Flynn and personal lawyer Michael Cohen, who already have either been convicted or pleaded guilty to charges brought by Mr Mueller. The big question now is whether the report contains allegations of wrongdoing by Mr Trump himself. Mr Barr, a Mr Trump appointee who took up his post in February, told lawmakers in a letter that he may be able to provide information to Congress on the report's findings as soon as this weekend. Mr Barr in his letter said he did not find any proposed actions by Mr Mueller that were inappropriate or unwarranted. Lawmakers from both parties, including the Democratic chairman and the top Republican member of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, called for prompt release of the report to key congressional committees and to the American public. "I fully expect the Justice Department to release the special counsel's report to this committee and to the public without delay and to the maximum extent permitted by law," said Doug Collins, the committee's senior Republican, in a statement. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer - the two top Democrats in Congress - said it was "imperative" that the full report be made public and that the White House plays no role in determining what is released. "The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency," they said in a joint statement. Mr Trump has sought to discredit the investigation, calling it a "witch hunt" and accusing Mr Mueller of conflicts of interest. US intelligence agencies have concluded that Moscow meddled in the election with a campaign of email hacking and online propaganda aimed at sowing discord in the United States, hurting Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and helping Mr Trump. Mr Mueller's investigators have looked into a large number of contacts between people associated with Mr Trump's campaign and Russia, such as a meeting in New York's Trump Tower between members of the president's inner circle including his eldest son and a Kremlin-linked Russian lawyer five months before the election. Mr Mueller sought to determine whether the campaign co-ordinated with Moscow, though it was not immediately clear whether the special counsel found evidence of a conspiracy. Mr Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including Russian intelligence officers, and three Russian companies, including one described as a "troll farm". An online petition urging the Government to cancel Brexit has become the most popular to be submitted to the Parliament website with over 4,150,000 signatures. The Revoke Article 50 petition on Saturday leapt ahead of a 2016 petition calling for a second EU referendum, as thousands of demonstrators are due to march on Westminster calling for a Peoples Vote. It has had the highest rate of sign-ups on record, according to Parliaments official Petitions Committee, adding over two million signatures in 24 hours. The petition took the top spot from another proposal which called for a second EU referendum should the winning vote and turnout not reach a certain threshold. By contrast, a pro-Brexit petition on the Parliament website which urges the Government to leave the EU without a deal has received 455,000 signatures. The Prime Minister ruled out halting the Brexit process when in Brussels on Thursday, telling reporters: I do not believe that we should be revoking Article 50. Data provided by the committee on the location of signatories was paused on Friday to aid website operations after the official website crashed numerous times. In a tweet, the House of Commons committee said approximately 96% of signatories were from the UK. The website requires signatories to tick a box confirming they are a British citizen or UK resident and provide a name, email address, country and postcode. People have been asking about who can sign petitions. Anyone who is a UK resident or a British citizen can sign a petition. This includes British citizens living overseas. Petitions Committee (@HoCpetitions) March 22, 2019 The petition, started in late February, leapt in popularity following the Prime Ministers appeal to the public on Wednesday where she told frustrated voters: I am on your side. It quickly passed the 100,000-signature threshold needed for it to be debated in Parliament, with the official committee revealing nearly 2,000 signatures were being completed every minute over Thursday lunchtime. Many celebrities and MPs have tweeted their support for Parliament to revoke the Treaty of Lisbon clause that deals with leaving the EU. Hundreds of thousands of people were pouring into the capital on Saturday to take part in the Put It To The People march. The London march coincides with pro-Brexit campaigners continuing their long hike from the North East to the capital. Former Ukip leader Nigel Farage re-joined the March to Leave when it set off from Linby, near Nottingham, on Saturday morning. An explosion at a pesticide plant in eastern China has killed 62 people, state media said late last night, with 34 people critically injured and 28 missing, the latest casualties in a series of industrial accidents that has angered the public. The blast occurred on Thursday at the Chenjiagang Industrial Park in the city of Yancheng, in Jiangsu province, and the fire was finally brought under control at 3am (7pm GMT) yesterday, state television said. Survivors were taken to 16 hospitals with 640 people being treated for injuries. The fire at a plant owned by the Tianjiayi Chemical Company spread to neighbouring factories. Children at a kindergarten in the vicinity were also injured in the blast, media reported. The cause of the explosion was under investigation, but the company - which produces more than 30 organic chemical compounds, some of which are highly flammable - has been cited and fined for work safety violations in the past, the 'China Daily' said. Police, some wearing face masks, sealed off roads to the plant. The power of the blast smashed windows in the village of Wangshang 2km away, and shocked villagers likened it to an earthquake. "There have been little accidents before but nothing like this," one resident, who gave his family name as Wang, told Reuters. "There was one loud bang followed by a long rumble. All the windows were smashed. I went to have a look. Near the site there was blood everywhere. People were crushed," he said. The village, overlooking a murky mildewed pond, has not been evacuated despite its proximity to the blast site. President Xi Jinping, who is in Italy on a state visit, ordered all-out efforts to care for the injured and to "earnestly maintain social stability", state television said. Authorities must step up action to prevent such incidents from happening and find out the cause of the blast as quickly as possible, Mr Xi added. "There have recently been a series of major accidents, and all places and relevant departments must fully learn the lessons from these," the report cited Mr Xi as saying. The Jiangsu environmental protection bureau said in a statement that the environmental monitoring station in the area had found no abnormal concentrations of toluene, xylene or benzene. Concentrations of acetone and chloroform outside the perimeter of the explosion zone were also within normal limits, it added. Jiangsu will launch inspections on chemical producers and warehouses, according to an emergency notice published by official media yesterday. President Donald Trump tweeted on Friday that he had reversed his administrations decision to slap new sanctions on North Korea a move which took officials at the US Treasury Department by surprise. Mr Trump delivered the news from his private club in Palm Beach, Florida, writing, It was announced today by the US Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions! A problem arose when the Treasury did not announce any new action affecting North Korea on Friday, let alone additional large scale Sanctions. The administration on Thursday did sanction two Chinese shipping companies suspected of helping North Korea evade sanctions but not the country itself. Press secretary Sarah Sanders issued only a brief statement saying that Mr Trump likes North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and doesnt think these sanctions will be necessary. But a person familiar with the action later told The Associated Press that Mr Trumps tweet was not about reversing existing sanctions. Instead, the person said, the president was talking about not going forward with additional large-scale sanctions on North Korea at this time. Expand Close President Donald Trumps tweet caught officials by surprise (Carolyn Kaster/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Donald Trumps tweet caught officials by surprise (Carolyn Kaster/AP) It was the latest example of the confusion sometimes sparked by Mr Trumps governance-by-tweet, which has often sent agency heads scrambling, trying to figure out what he meant or trying to implement policy proclamations that have not gone through traditional vetting processes. Mr Trumps tweet took Treasury officials by surprise and prompted reporters to bombard officials at the White House National Security Council and Treasury Department with questions. All declined to comment. The reversal came a day after the Treasury Department announced the first targeted actions taken against Pyongyang since Mr Trump and Mr Kim met in Hanoi, Vietnam, last month for negotiations about North Koreas nuclear weapons programme. The meeting ended without a deal. Important actions today from @USTreasury; the maritime industry must do more to stop North Koreas illicit shipping practices. Everyone should take notice and review their own activities to ensure they are not involved in North Koreas sanctions evasion. https://t.co/AVnOPrWbH6 John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) March 21, 2019 In addition to Mr Trumps talks with North Korea, the US is in delicate trade negotiations with China. It is unclear whether Mr Trumps decision was related to North Koreas move on Friday to abruptly withdraw its staff from a liaison office with South Korea. That development is likely to put a damper on ties between the North and South and further complicate global diplomacy on North Koreas nuclear programme. The withdrawal also is seen as a major setback for South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has sought to improve relations with North Korea alongside the nuclear negotiations between the North and the United States. North Korea said it was withdrawing its staff under instructions from unspecified higher-level authorities, according to a Unification Ministry statement. It did not say whether the withdrawal would be temporary or permanent. South Korea called the Norths decision regrettable and urged the North to return its staff to the liaison office soon. When the administration announced the sanctions on Thursday against the Chinese shipping companies, administration officials briefed reporters, saying the sanctions were evidence the US was maintaining pressure on North Korea in an effort to coax its leader to give up his nuclear weapons programme. Mr Trumps national security adviser John Bolton called it an Important action, tweeting, The maritime industry must do more to stop North Koreas illicit shipping practices. The Treasury Department sanctioned Dalian Haibo International Freight Co Ltd and Liaoning Danxing International Forwarding Co Ltd for using deceptive methods to circumvent international and US sanctions and the US commitment to implementing existing UN Security Council resolutions. AP calls to the two companies rang without response on Friday. The Treasury Department, in coordination with the State Department and the US Coast Guard, also updated a North Korea shipping advisory, adding dozens of vessels thought to be doing ship-to-ship transfers with North Korean tankers or exported North Korean coal in violation of sanctions. Two senior administration officials said that illegal ship-to-ship transfers that violate US and international sanctions have increased and that not all countries, including China, are implementing the restrictions. They said the deceptive practices include disabling or manipulating ship identification systems, repainting the names on vessels and falsifying cargo documents. Italy gave Chinese President Xi Jinping a lavish welcome with an escort of guards on horseback usually reserved for visiting monarchs, shrugging off concerns of European leaders at the Asian power-making inroads in the continent. Mr Xi met President Sergio Mattarella and business leaders yesterday before a ceremony at which the Chinese leader will sign a memorandum of understanding recruiting Italy for his transcontinental Belt and Road infrastructure project. That accord has triggered criticism from US and European Union allies that Italy is jeopardising its sovereignty. "China and Italy are partners on a strategic level, they have mutual respect and trust for each other," Mr Xi said in speech at the presidential palace. He added that trade links can boost global prosperity. About a dozen Italian companies will sign separate agreements with Chinese firms today, according to people familiar with the matter. They include engineering company Ansaldo Energia, which will announce commissions from Shanghai Electric worth up to 200m, the people said. Gas pipeline operator Snam is expected to announce an agreement with the Silk Road Fund, they said. Spokespersons for Ansaldo and Snam declined to comment. "Xi in Rome: The escort fit for kings," headlined newspaper 'Corriere della Sera', before he was greeted at the presidential Quirinale Palace by guards on horseback - an honour normally the privilege of monarchs, and last bestowed on then-Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. Mr Xi has said he wants to offer Italy a "global strategic partnership". Emmanuel Macron was yesterday forced to wade into an escalating row over claims that French soldiers have been authorised to open fire at today's "yellow vest" protests. His ability to prevent a repeat of last weekend's violence, in which masked rioters wrecked stores and restaurants on the Champs-Elysees, is seen as a crucial test for the French president. Christophe Castaner, his embattled interior minister, has this week drafted in 3,000 soldiers to protect hotspots in Paris and other big cities. Failure to maintain order ended in Mr Castaner firing the Paris police and public security chiefs and announcing measures including a ban on protests in areas infiltrated by violent individuals, the use of surveillance drones, rubber bullet launchers and the army. Bruno Le Ray, head of the Sentinelle military operation in the Paris area until now dedicated to anti-terror patrols, said soldiers would be there to guard sensitive sites. "They have different means of action to deal with threats... that can go as far as opening fire if their life or that of the people they are defending is under threat," he told the news service France Info. He denied that guns could be turned on the "yellow vests", adding: "The soldiers are perfectly capable of appraising the nature of the threat and responding in a proportionate manner." However, the army's involvement triggered furious debate among the opposition and police amid fears that soldiers were ill-equipped to deal with urban guerrilla tactics. Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally, said: "One sets the army against an enemy. One does not set the army against the French people." With the row snowballing, Mr Macron waded in from Brussels, saying: "The army is in no way in charge of maintaining public order." Their role, he insisted, was to fight terrorism, protect sensitive sites and "relieve police and gendarmes". Daily Telegraph London Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021] The Trump wrecking ball strikes again as he recognises Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights in Syria. The unexpected and arbitrary nature of the decision makes the world feel a more anarchic and dangerous place where territorial land grabs are abruptly legitimised. Trump is tearing up the international rule book largely devised by the US since 1945 and of which Washington was the main beneficiary. The alliances and multilateral institutions through which the US once asserted its superpower status are contemptuously discarded. Why did the president do it? The obvious short-term motive is to strengthen Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the eve of Israel's elections on April 9. A feature of Trump's way of operating, which is to support populist nationalist right-wing leaders wherever they emerge - from Sao Paulo to Tel Aviv and Manila. "President Trump just made history," said Netanyahu on hearing the news and he may well be right. But what kind of history is in the making and what does it portend for the rest of the Middle East: territorial aggrandisement at the expense of neighbours was a central theme of international politics up to the end of WWII. Could it now be coming back into fashion? Critics of Trump's action on the Golan point out that it is good news for Vladimir Putin, who will ask how the US and its allies can go on condemning Russia's annexation of the Crimea. Chinese leaders may react similarly when it comes to their claim of sovereignty over the South China Sea. But in dealing with Trump one has to be careful to keep a sense of proportion and weigh the dramatic nature of his pronouncements and gestures against what he actually does. He usually shows greater caution and willingness to curb radical initiatives than is obvious from his first outrageous tweets. Last year he announced the withdrawal of US troops from Syria, a policy that had more going for it than might appear, only to retreat from it in the face of strident opposition from the security establishment. As happened when Trump decided to move the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in 2017, the change over the Golan is mostly symbolic - but the symbolism is important. Fig leaves that masked the nastier realities of US power are being discarded: any idea of American even-handedness in mediating between Israel and the Palestinians had always been a nonsense aimed at pretending there was a "peace process", or that there was a chance of a "two-state solution" when Israeli settlements were gobbling up the West Bank and penning Palestinians into isolated fragments of territory. But fig leaves do serve a purpose in obscuring or delaying confrontation. Trump was supposedly assembling a great Sunni Arab coalition led by Saudi Arabia to oppose Iran and curb its influence. It may be that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other Gulf states' leaders do not care what the US and Israel do in the West Bank or Golan. But Saudi Arabia is in competition with Turkey for leadership of the Sunni Muslims and has so far got very little in return for its close cooperation with the US where, for the first time, it is under constant and damaging congressional attack over the killing of Jamal Khashoggi. The anti-Iranian coalition looks more bedraggled and dysfunctional by the day. Trump's demarche over the Golan comes as the political and military landscape of Syria is changing. The last Isil fighters are hiding out in caves and bomb-shattered trenches in eastern Syria but they cannot survive for long against the vastly superior forces ranged against them. Trump is expected to announce a famous victory with his usual exaggerations and pretence that it was all his own work. His claims will be met with some scepticism - and it is always going to be impossible to stop Isil gunmen murdering lone Shia travellers in the deserts of eastern Syria and western Iraq. But a decisive victory has been won in that the caliphate declared by Isil in 2014 is destroyed and the extraordinary bid to create a salafi-jihadi state has failed. There was an inevitability about this. Isil was like an Islamic version of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia in the 1970s, which was a militarised cult of great fighting power and unrestrained violence. Both movements were defeated by their very fanaticism, which led them to treat everybody else as enemies to be defeated, thereby provoking a counter-reaction that destroyed them. Isil retains some fighting capacity and has always foreseen that it was likely to lose the battle to defend its once vast territories. But it is unlikely to rise again in the face of a multitude of enemies determined to stop the group resurrecting itself. An effect of Isil's savagery is to give the impression that it was at the heart of the problems facing the Middle East. The movement was born out of the chaos of wars in Iraq and Syria and these conflicts have not ended. So long as they go on, along with similar conflicts in Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya and beyond, there is the possibility of other al-Q'aeda like groups gaining traction. The other great unanswered question in the region revolves around Trump and Netanyahu: both leaders specialise in bellicose rhetoric but avoid full scale wars, if we except the one-sided Israeli bombardment of Gaza. In Syria and Iraq, Trump's policy has not been much different from that of Barack Obama, though it is scarcely a comparison he would relish. Some of this was a matter of chance. Trump has yet to face a crisis in the Middle East on the scale Obama did during the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011 or the blitzkrieg victories of Isis in 2014 when for a few months the jihadis were advancing on every front. But the Middle East is always generating fresh crises that strike unexpectedly - and when this happens we will see how Trump reacts if, for example, a US ally in the Middle East is overthrown in a coup. Recognition by the US of Israel's annexation of the Golan helps stir the pot in Syria, adding a destabilising sense that old rules no longer apply so far as the Trump administration is concerned. Only hours earlier US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had been telling journalists that no such change was contemplated. It is all very much in keeping with the behaviour of past populist nationalist leaders, with their invariable contempt for legality, who have sprung up all over the world and may one day lead it to disaster. Independent News Service US President Donald Trump said yesterday he would lift economic sanctions linked to North Korea - just 24 hours after they were announced. In a bizarre about-turn, Mr Trump tweeted that he would withdraw the measures against two Chinese shipping companies accused of helping Pyongyang defy existing sanctions. No detailed explanations were given for the change of heart by the US president. The U-turn was embarrassing given that both Steven Mnuchin, the US treasury secretary, and John Bolton, the White House national security adviser, had endorsed the sanctions on Thursday. Sarah Sanders, the White House press secretary, said of the decision to withdraw them: "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary." It was the first time fresh sanctions over North Korea had been imposed since Mr Trump and Kim Jong-un's talks in Vietnam collapsed without a deal on denuclearisation last month. Mr Bolton, who is believed to have pushed for a tougher line on Pyongyang, had tweeted that the sanctions amounted to "important actions". Mr Mnuchin was quoted in a press release saying: "Treasury will continue to enforce our sanctions, and we are making it explicitly clear that shipping companies employing deceptive tactics to mask illicit trade with North Korea expose themselves to great risk." One possible cause for the change in US position was North Korea's decision yesterday to pull out of an inter-Korean liaison office - a step back from the country's dialogue with its neighbour in the South. The withdrawal from the office in the North Korean border city of Kaesong was seen as a setback for Moon Jae-in, the South's president. He had been seeking improved relations with Pyongyang alongside the nuclear talks between the North and the US. Daily Telegraph, London Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021] President Donald Trump has been under pressure over the Mueller report (Terry Renna/AP) Here is a timeline of significant developments in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 US presidential election and whether President Donald Trump's campaign conspired with Moscow. 2017 May 17 - U.S. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein appoints former FBI Director Mueller as a special counsel to investigate Russian meddling in the 2016 election and to look into any links and/or coordination between the Russian government and people associated with Republican Trump's campaign. The appointment follows President Trump's firing of FBI Director James Comey on May 9 and days later Trump attributed the dismissal to "this Russia thing." June 15 - Mueller is investigating Trump for possible obstruction of justice, the Washington Post reports. Oct. 30 - Veteran Republican political operative and former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who worked for the campaign for five pivotal months in 2016, is indicted on charges of conspiracy against the United States and money laundering as is his business partner Rick Gates, who also worked for Trump's campaign. - Former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos pleads guilty to a charge of lying to the FBI about his contacts with Russian officials. Dec. 1 - Michael Flynn, Trump's national security adviser for less than a month who also had a prominent campaign role, pleads guilty to the charge of lying to the FBI about his discussions in 2016 with the Russian ambassador to Washington. 2018 Feb. 16 - Federal grand jury indicts 13 Russians and three firms, including a Russian government propaganda arm called the Internet Research Agency, accusing them of tampering to support Trump and disparage Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. The accused "had a strategic goal to sow discord in the U.S. political system, including the 2016 U.S. presidential election" according to the court document filed by Mueller. - An American, Richard Pinedo, pleads guilty to identity fraud for selling bank account numbers after being accused by prosecutors of helping Russians launder money, buy Facebook ads and pay for campaign rally supplies. Pinedo was not associated with the Trump campaign. Feb. 22 - Manafort and Gates are charged with financial crimes, including bank fraud, in Virginia. Feb. 23 - Gates pleads guilty to conspiracy against the United States and lying to investigators. He agrees to cooperate and testify against Manafort at trial. April 3 - Alex van der Zwaan, the Dutch son-in-law of one of Russia's richest men, is sentenced to 30 days in prison and fined $20,000 for lying to Mueller's investigators, becoming the first person sentenced in the probe. April 9 - FBI agents raid home, hotel room and office of Trump's personal lawyer and self-described "fixer" Michael Cohen. April 12 - Rosenstein tells Trump that he is not a target in Mueller's probe. April 19 - Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, a Trump supporter in the election campaign, joins Trump's personal legal team. June 8 - Mueller charges a Russian-Ukrainian man, Konstantin Kilimnik, a Manafort business partner whom prosecutors say had ties to Russian intelligence, with witness tampering. July 13 - Federal grand jury indicts 12 Russian military intelligence officers on charges of hacking Democratic Party computer networks in 2016 and staged releases of documents. Russia, which denies interfering in the election, says there is no evidence that the 12 are linked to spying or hacking. July 16 - In Helsinki after the first summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump publicly contradicts U.S. intelligence agencies that concluded Moscow had interfered in the 2016 election with a campaign of hacking and propaganda. Trump touts Putin's "extremely strong and powerful" denial of meddling. He calls the Mueller inquiry a "rigged witch hunt" on Twitter. Aug. 21 - A trial jury in Virginia finds Manafort guilty of five counts of tax fraud, two counts of bank fraud and one count of failure to disclose a foreign bank account. - Cohen, in a case brought by U.S. prosecutors in New York, pleads guilty to tax fraud and campaign finance law violations. Cohen is subsequently interviewed by Mueller's team. Aug. 31 - Samuel Patten, an American business partner of Kilimnik, pleads guilty to unregistered lobbying for pro-Kremlin political party in Ukraine. Sept. 14 - Manafort pleads guilty to two conspiracy counts and signs a cooperation agreement with Mueller's prosecutors. Nov. 8 - U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions resigns at Trump's request. He had recused himself from overseeing the Mueller inquiry because of his contacts with the Russian ambassador as a Trump campaign official. Trump appoints Sessions' chief of staff Matthew Whitaker, a critic of the Mueller probe, as acting attorney general. Nov. 20 - Giuliani says Trump submitted written answers to questions from Mueller, as the president avoids a face-to-face interview with the special counsel. Nov. 27-28 - Prosecutors say Manafort breached his plea deal by lying to investigators, which Manafort denies. Trump says he has not ruled out granting Manafort a presidential pardon. Nov. 28 - Giuliani says Trump told investigators he was not aware ahead of time of a meeting in Trump Tower in New York between several campaign officials and Russians in June 2016. Nov. 29 - Cohen pleads guilty in the Mueller investigation to lying to Congress about the length of discussions in 2016 on plans to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. "I made these misstatements to be consistent with individual 1's political messaging and out of loyalty to individual 1," says Cohen, who previously identified "individual 1" as Trump. - The president criticizes Cohen as a liar and "weak person." Dec. 12 - Two developments highlight growing political and legal risks for Trump: Cohen sentenced to three years in prison for crimes including orchestrating hush payments to women in violation of campaign laws before the election; American Media Inc, publisher of National Enquirer tabloid, strikes deal to avoid charges over its role in one of two hush payments. Publisher admits payment was aimed at influencing the 2016 election, contradicting Trump's statements. 2019 Jan. 25 - Longtime Trump associate and self-proclaimed political "dirty trickster" Roger Stone charged and arrested at his home in Florida. Stone is accused of lying to Congress about statements suggesting he may have had advance knowledge of plans by Wikileaks to release Democratic Party campaign emails that U.S. officials say were stolen by Russia. Feb. 21 - U.S. judge tightens gag order on Stone, whose Instagram account posted a photo of the judge and the image of crosshairs next to it. Feb. 22 - Manhattan district attorney's office is pursuing New York state criminal charges against Manafort whether or not he receives a pardon from Trump on federal crimes, a person familiar with the matter says. Trump cannot issue pardons for state convictions. Feb. 24 - Senior Democratic U.S. Representative Adam Schiff says Democrats will subpoena Mueller's final report on his investigation if it is not given to Congress by the Justice Department, and will sue the Trump administration and call on Mueller to testify to Congress if necessary. Feb. 27 - Cohen tells U.S. House Oversight Committee Trump is a "racist," a "con man" and a "cheat" who knew in advance about a release of emails by WikiLeaks in 2016 aimed at hurting rival Clinton. Trump directed negotiations for a real estate project in Moscow during the campaign even as he publicly said he had no business interests in Russia, Cohen testifies. March 7 - Manafort is sentenced in the Virginia case to almost four years in prison. The judge also ordered Manafort to pay a fine of $50,000 and restitution of just over $24 million. March 13 - Manafort is sentenced to about 3-1/2 more years in prison in the Washington case, bringing his total prison sentence in the two special counsel cases to 7-1/2 years. - On the same day, the Manhattan district attorney announces a separate indictment charging Manafort with residential mortgage fraud and other New York state crimes, which unlike the federal charges cannot be erased by a presidential pardon. March 22 - Mueller submits his confidential report on the findings of his investigation to U.S. Attorney General William Barr. The Al Noor mosque in Christchurch as it reopened following the March 15 mass shooting (Mark Baker/AP) Worshippers have visited a New Zealand mosque as it reopened for the first time after dozens of people died there in a mass shooting. Hundreds of people stopped at the Al Noor mosque in Christchurch to lay flowers or pray after police removed a cordon and those running the mosque decided to reopen. Inside the mosque, there were few signs of the carnage from eight days earlier. Expand Close Worshippers prepare to enter the Al Noor mosque following last weeks mass shooting in Christchurch (Mark Baker/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Worshippers prepare to enter the Al Noor mosque following last weeks mass shooting in Christchurch (Mark Baker/AP) Crews had replaced windows that worshippers smashed in a desperate attempt to escape when the attack during Friday prayers. Bullet holes were plastered over and painted. Shagat Khan, the president of the Muslim Association of Canterbury, said they had not planned to open the mosque so soon but when they saw the crowds gathering after the police cordon was removed, they decided to allow people to enter in managed groups so the mosque will be alive again. Those who lost their families are of course quite emotional, he said. And those who were present here during the incident, of course the memories come back. The flashbacks. A total of 50 people were killed at two mosques in Christchurch on March 15, in the nations worst terrorist attack. Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, has been charged with murder and is scheduled to make his next court appearance on April 5. Abdullahi Ibrahim Diriye, the uncle of the youngest victim of the shooting, three-year-old Mucaad Ibrahim, visited the mosque with the boys father. Always he was a happy boy, and he liked every person he met, not only Muslims, Mr Diriye said. Expand Close His Royal Highness Prince El Hassan bin Talal Hashemite, of the Kingdom of Jordan, embraces a worshipper outside the Al Noor mosque (Mark Baker/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp His Royal Highness Prince El Hassan bin Talal Hashemite, of the Kingdom of Jordan, embraces a worshipper outside the Al Noor mosque (Mark Baker/AP) Prince Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, who travelled to New Zealand to pay his respects, hugged a man at the entrance of the mosque and told him to be patient. He was crying deeply from his heart for a loved one he had lost, the prince later explained. And I was saying, this is Gods will, be patient. Because only through patience can you endure. Prince Hassan said in the Middle East there have been wars every decade. To feel that this form of violence and cruelty is visited on you, living in this idyllic part of the world, is deeply, deeply moving, he said. Human dignity is being assailed on all fronts by extremists, he said, and people need to stand together as human beings. Officials say four Jordanian nationals died in the attack, while a four-year-old Jordanian girl is also recovering in an Auckland hospital. Trump attacks on McCain seem to be stirring up support for late senator By Andrew HowardCronkite News WASHINGTON Its no secret that President Donald Trump is not a fan of the late Sen. John McCain , but instead of weakening the McCain fan club the presidents latest string of attacks may be having the opposite effect. Republican senators have come forward to defend their former colleague, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has dusted off a proposal to rename a Senate building in McCains honor, and analysts are left wondering what good Trump thinks will come of it. Its all in response to several days of attacks on the Arizona Republican that began Saturday with a Trump tweet accusing McCain of being behind the special counsels probe of possible Russian meddling in the 2016 election. That was followed by more tweets in which Trump mocked McCain for finishing near the bottom of his Naval Academy class and brought up McCains dramatic 2017 thumbs-down vote that preserved Obamacare. Cronkite News Video by Alissa Klink: Meghan McCain defends her late father It culminated Wednesday with a speech at a Lima, Ohio, tank factory where Trump, without prompting, veered off script in a speech about defense spending and manufacturing jobs to complain about McCain. So, I have to be honest, Ive never liked him much, Trump told the assembled workers before adding he probably never will. What followed was five minutes in which Trump repeated the Naval Academy and dossier claims, again brought up the Obamacare vote, criticized McCains support of U.S. involvement in Middle East wars and complained that he was never sufficiently thanked for his role in McCains funeral approving the use of a plane to carry the casket from Phoenix to Washington. Trump also raised a new complaint, that McCain didnt get the job done for our great vets by improving medical care at the Veterans Administration. The vets were on my side because I got the job done. I got Choice and I got Accountability, Trump said. President Donald Trump takes the stage on March 20, 2019, in front of workers at the Lima (Ohio) Army Tank Plant, where his speech about manufacturing jobs and defense spending veered into more criticism of the late Arizona Sen. John McCain. Photo by Shealah Craighead / White House But the Choice bill , which lets vets seek treatment outside the VA, was sponsored by McCain and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, and signed in 2014. An update to that bill, which Trump signed in May, is actually named for McCain and two other vets who served in Congress. Before turning back to his prepared speech, Trump noted that some people like him (McCain) and I think thats great. It was the only part of the speech that everybody might agree on. We saw that with the funeral, this is a man who was beloved across a whole lot of categories, Norman Ornstein, resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, said of McCain. He called Trumps comments shocking and ridiculous. Meghan McCain, who has long battled Trump over her fathers legacy, said Wednesday on her talk show, The View, that McCain would think it was hilarious that our president was so jealous of him that he was dominating the news cycle in death as well. Cindy McCain posted a screenshot to her Twitter account Tuesday of vulgar comments directed at her and Meghan after they criticized the president. On Thursday, she sent a fundraising appeal on behalf of the McCain Institute for donations to protect Johns legacy. Friends, the legacy and record of John McCain are under attack, the letter said. Today, the fight we are fighting is for Johns integrity, his record and his legacy. John McCain is an American hero and I am thankful for his life of service and legacy to our country and Arizona. Everyone should give him and his family the respect, admiration, and peace they deserve. Martha McSally (@SenMcSallyAZ) March 20, 2019 Schumer, who had proposed renaming a building for McCain shortly after his August 25 death from brain cancer, tweeted Wednesday that he looks forward to soon reintroducing my legislation renaming the Senate Russell Building after American hero, Senator John McCain. Republican lawmakers have also taken McCains side. Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Georgia, told Georgia Public Broadcasting that Trumps comments were deplorable. Others, like Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Sen. Martha McSally, R-Arizona, tweeted praise for McCain without mentioning the presidents remarks. John McCain is an American hero and I am thankful for his life of service and legacy to our country and Arizona, McSally said . Everyone should give him and his family the respect, admiration, and peace they deserve. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, McCains closest friend in the Senate, told reporters Wednesday that Trumps comments hurt him more than they hurt the legacy of Sen. McCain. I dont like when he says things about my friend John McCain, Graham said. The best thing that can happen, I think, for all of us is to move forward. I look forward to soon re-introducing my legislation re-naming the Senate Russell Building after American hero, Senator John McCain. Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) March 20, 2019 Others wondered what Trump hoped to get from attacking a man who died seven months ago. Mike Noble, chief of research and managing partner for OH predictive insights, a Phoenix polling company, said he does not really see the upside for Trumps comments, particularly when moderates could be important in Arizona in the 2020 election From an Arizonans opinion, I dont see the rationale for going after John McCain, Noble said. Since Arizona is in play, those moderate Republican, pro-McCain votes are a key voting bloc. Scott Talan, an American University communications professor, said Trump doesnt seem to be able to stop himself. We all have these things in life that bug us, that might annoy us or might upset us, including people, Talan said. But do we talk about them all the time? Do we talk about them when were supposed to be doing something else? Usually not. The president seems incapable of any normal sort of bodily or human control over what he says and thinks, Talan said. Ornstein, who called Trumps comments shocking and ridiculous, sees a different motive: jealousy. The fact that McCain got that acclaim and he didnt weighs on him, he said. Cronkite News reporter Alyssa Klink contributed to this report. This story originally appeared on Cronkite News and is published via a Creative Commons license . Cronkite News is produced by the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University Join the Conversation By Acee Agoyo The U.S. House of Representatives , now under Democratic control, is set to approve the first stand-alone Indian Country bills of the 116th Congress. Two bills will be considered next Tuesday, according to the Majority Leader's calendar . Both are being brought up under a suspension of the rules, a process typically used for non-controversial legislation. Both measures in fact passed the House during the last session, when the chamber was under Republican rule. But neither made it across the finish line in the Senate -- for contentious reasons -- so they are back on the agenda on Capitol Hill. A view of the Lytton Rancheria's land-into-trust site in Sonoma County, California. Photo: Lytton Residential Development Environmental Assessment Tribal homelands For the Lytton Band of Pomo Indians , movement on H.R.1388 , the Lytton Rancheria Homelands Act, marks progress toward rebuilding its territory. The tribe was illegally terminated by the federal government and lost all of its trust lands as a result. "Having a permanent homeland for our people provides a continuity for the tribal government and for taking care of our members," Chairwoman Margie Mejia said during a hearing on the bill last year. "Indian people think seven generations ahead so having this land enables the tribal government to plan for the future of its members." H.R.1388 places about 511 acres in trust for the tribe. Plans call for housing, a community center and economic development projects, including a winery in Sonoma County, the famed wine-producing area in northern California. But while the county has reached an agreement with the tribe to support the bill, the same can't be said for residents who continue to oppose the effort . And in testimony on the measure last year, one local official eagerly pointed out that Sen. Kamala Harris (D-California), who is seeking the Democratic nomination for president , opposed the tribe's land-into-trust application when she served as the state's attorney general A letter submitted to the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Harris's name accused the tribe of straying too far from its "reservation." In it, she called on the agency to reject the application even though all of the properties are located in the same county where its original rancheria was located before termination. According to Harris , the "enormous distance between the location of its 'reservation' and the proposed trust acquisition should be found to preclude it." The tribe operates a casino in San Pablo , about 60 miles south of the properties in the land-into-trust application and the homelands bill, and that is the area she is characterizing as the tribe's "reservation." Rep. Greg Gianforte (R-Montana): Gianforte Reintroduces Legislation Recognizing Little Shell, Urges House to Pass Bill Again Federal recognition The second bill up for consideration next week also addresses an oversight of the federal government. H.R.297 , the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians Restoration Act, extends federal recognition to the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians "This Congress should provide the Little Shell Tribe with the federal recognition it deserves, particularly after its eight decades of dedicated efforts," Rep. Greg Gianforte (R-Montana) said on January 9, when he introduced the bill, which was his first of the new session. In the last session, a stand-alone bill to recognize the tribe passed the House for the first time since lawmakers initiated the effort more than a decade ago. But the measure was blocked from moving forward in the Senate by Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), according to Sen. Steve Daines (R-Montana) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-Montana). "The Little Shell Tribe has waited far too long and jumped through too many bureaucratic hurdles to secure federal recognition. We can no longer keep kicking the can down the road," Daines said when he introduced S.51 , a companion version of the bill, on the same day as H.R.297. "The Little Shell deserve to have their sovereignty recognized," Tester said. "It's time for the federal government to do right by the Little Shell. After years of fighting, I'm hopeful we can get it done this Congress." The tribe's status has been in limbo for more than a century following failed treaty negotiations in the late 1800s. An attempt to gain recognition through the Bureau of Indian Affairs has been marked by uncertainty through three presidential administrations, Republican and Democrat. The tribe's pending federal recognition petition was one of the reasons why Lee blocked the bill, according to Daines and Tester. The application is under reconsideration at the BIA Every other Indian nation in Montana supports the tribe's federal recognition. We are off and running with our bills... senate and house bills have been introduced..... thank you congressman... Posted by Montana Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians on Wednesday, January 9, 2019 More tribal homelands The Majority Leader's weekly schedule is notable because one item does not appear on it at this time. That bill is H.R.312 , the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Reservation Reaffirmation Act. H.R.312 would prevent the federal government from taking the reservation of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe out of trust. That is something that hasn't happened since the disastrous termination era In an update to tribal citizens earlier this week, Chairman Cedric Cromwell said the measure was being fast-tracked in the House. That sent the conservative media into a frenzy because a prior version was co-sponsored by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), another Democratic candidate for president and one who happens to be a frequent target of the Republican right. Headlines like " House Democrats Look to Move Warren Casino Bill Without Debate ," " House Democrats Plan to Move on Swampy Indian Casino Bill Backed by Warren " and " Dem Leadership Plans Late-Night Vote To Get Liz Warren Casino Bill Through House " were indicative of the interest in linking Warren to H.R.312 even though a version hasn't been introduced in the Senate. Any movement in the House will continue to generate the intense coverage. The 116th Congress So far in the 116th Congress, which began on January 3, no stand-alone Indian Country bills have cleared both chambers. But tribes welcomed final passage of S.47 , the Natural Resources Management Act , because it includes a number of beneficial provisions to their communities. Leaders of the Ute Tribe , on the other hand, are praising the measure because it doesn't affect their homelands, which have been the subject of controversial proposals . According to the business committee, the tribe lobbied Congress to make sure their rights weren't negatively impacted by S.47. For more than 100 years, bad actors in Utah and the federal government have tried to take the lands and waters that we reserved in treaties and agreements with the United States," the business committee said in a statement. "These attacks must end. President Donald Trump signed the bill, also known as the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, on March 12. The new law honors the memory of the late former U.S. Congressman John Dingell , a Democrat from Michigan who advocated for tribal treaty rights during his time on Capitol Hill. Join the Conversation Since World War II, capitalism has created unprecedented, worldwide prosperity and opportunity. Yet many Americans fail to believe this or vehemently disagree, finding the idea offensive. On both ends of the political spectrum, public trust in capitalism is at a historic low. This lack of trust is fed by economic disenfranchisement and income inequality, and manifests itself in philosophical shifts and wide swings in public policymaking. Both ends of the political spectrum are tearing at capitalism and its benefits. On the political right, anti-trade and protectionist policies have rebuffed traditional free-market approaches. On the political left, there is growing support for significant intrusion into market-led capitalism that threatens to move our nation closer to socialism. Have you all been grooving to Taki Taki and Magenta Riddim at the clubs? If not, then you must have tripped over songs like Let Me Love You and Lean On. The man behind these songs French DJ and record producer DJ Snake is in Mumbai for an event, and guess who he met the King of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan. edmchicago.com When Shah Rukh Khan spreads his arms, we are all left swooning, right? His charismatic personality can charm almost everyone, including DJ Snake, who got clicked with him in the Indian pose of Namaste. As he shared the picture online, he captioned it as Legend. When the two stars posed together, fans lost their calm! After seeing this picture, fans couldnt control their excitement. Take a look. Also, arent you loving what DJ snake is wearing? Fuckin legendary picture G (@jain11gaurav) March 22, 2019 French legend with Indian legend King Khan TEAM DJ SNAKE (@DjSnakeIndia11) March 22, 2019 2 legend in single fream GANPAT (@Maliganpat6) March 22, 2019 OMG Really I m watching you two together Chowkidar Sushma Shaw (@SushmaShaw8) March 22, 2019 @mayer_doi Osm picture...Global Icon International Greatest Actor Baadshah of Bollywood Creativity Romance Legend Of Acting Of Indian Cienma Industry King SRK with brilliant DJ Snake Mayer Doi@ferdbouk (@mayer_doi) March 22, 2019 Whats more? Dilbar fame Nora Fatehi also met with the international sensation. And now rumours are rife that these two might be collaborating soon. Happy happy holi everyone!!! It was an epic one! pic.twitter.com/wihXwLqcSC Nora Fatehi (@Norafatehi) March 21, 2019 Its going to be fun to see Nora shaking a leg on DJ Snakes tunes, dont you agree? Peter Dinklage AKA Tyrion Lannister is one of the most loved characters on Game of Thrones. We have his look-alike in India as well. The man named Tariq Mir was apparently spotted by filmmaker Imtiaz Ali in Kashmir. And now, another doppelganger of the star has been spotted in Pakistan. AFP The man named Rozi Khan is a waiter by profession. He had never heard about the show Game of Thrones and its popularity. He didnt even know he looked like an actor from the show, Peter Dinklage. He got to know about it when he was working at the restaurant and people asked if they could get clicked with him. AFP Rozi Khan is 25-years-old, and he is loving all the attention that he gets these days. He says, now he gets stopped in the streets regularly for pictures and he simply loves it. AFP I don't mind. A lot of my pictures have been taken, that's why I have become very famous everywhere. Wherever I go, someone says to me: 'Sir, who is this man with you on Facebook', I say that he is my friend. 'He looks like you'. I tell them he is my brother. It's not a bad thing, Rozi Khan was quoted as saying by AFP. AFP Khan works at small Kashmiri restaurant down a narrow lane in Rawalpindi and serves hearty dishes such as mutton and spinach curries. The owner of the restaurant Malik Aslam Pervez says he is an hard-working employee. When he takes a day off or gets sick, people look for him and ask where did he go? They get upset. They love him. There is always a crowd here but it has boomed because of him, he said. AFP Rozi Khan now wants to meet Peter Dinklage one day and we can't wait for it to happen! In 2017, they took the country by storm, after they launched a massive protest in Delhi, with the heater to unseen and unheard ways of protesting. A group of farmers from Tamil Nadu had come all the way to the national capital with the skulls and bones of their loved ones who killed themselves due to the mounting debts. BCCL/ FILE The group of some 150 farmers had raised a set of demands including farm loan waiver, drought relief and interlinking of rivers. With their demands falling in deaf ears, the farmers led by Ayakannu did some unthinkable acts like eating dead rats to flogging themselves and even drinking urine. After sitting on protest for 45 days, the government finally conceded and agreed to look into their demands. BCCL/ FILE Now almost two years after their protests, the farmers are back, not with another demonstration, but this time they have decided to take the fight to the doorsteps of PM Modi. Ayyakannu said that 111 farmers from the state will contest against Modi from Varanasi to urge the BJP to include in their manifesto that their demands, including "profitable prices for farm produce," would be fulfilled. "Moment they assure in their manifesto that our demands will be fulfilled, we will drop our decision to contest against Modi," he told PTI. BCCL/ FILE Asked why they were raising the demand with BJP alone and not other parties like the Congress to include it in their manifestos, he said the BJP was still the ruling party and Modi the Prime Minister. "We are not against the BJP or our PM Modi. Before assuming power, Modi promised to fulfill our demands and assured to double our income. Even today he is our Prime Minister and the BJP is the ruling party and that is why we are making this demand to them," he clarified. The Islamic State in a statement has said that Shafi Armar, a resident of Bhatkal in Karnataka whom the Indian and the US intelligence designated as the main recruiter for IS in India has been killed in fighting in IS last stronghold in Syria. The statement said that Shafi Armar alias Yusuf al-Hindi was one of the founding members of Ansar-ul-Tawhid and on March 19, he died fighting the Syrian coalition forces. Read more People Won't Be Able To Use Ola Cabs In Bengaluru As The State Suspends It For 6 Months As far as traffic is concerned, Bengaluru is one of the worst in the country. And it could worsen further in the coming days as the Karnataka government has suspended the licence of cab aggregator Ola for six months. Karnataka transport department suspended the licence of Ola Cabs on March 18 after the company was found violating rules. According to reports, the bike taxis operated by Ola in Bengaluru was in violation of license conditions and rules prescribed by the government. Read more After 4 Attacks On Vande Bharat Express In 2 Months, Special Team Formed To Curb Stone Pelting On Trains Railways on Wednesday set up special teams comprising GRP and RPF personnel to track the miscreants pelting stones at Indias first premium class semi-high speed train Vande Bharat. Plain-clothes team members would mingle with folks of villages where attacks have occurred in past, railway officials said on Friday. We have decided to keep a close watch in areas on the route from Kanpur to Varanasi, said SP Railways Himanshu Kumar. Read more There's Now A Petition In HC To Ban 'Alibaug Se Aaya Hai Kya'? Because It's Disrespectful The complainant, Rajendra Thakur, a resident of Satirje village of Mapgaon in Alibaug argued that the phrase is unfair and humiliating as it projects the people of Alibaug as illiterates. 'Alibaug se aaya hai kya?' is often used in conversations in the tune of 'Are you a fool?'. Read more He Didn't Pay His Wife Alimony For 2 Years, Fed Up Court Sent Him To Jail But Pays After Spending 5 Days Behind Bars What the orders from the courts couldnt do, the order to send the person in question to jail from Apex court did in a matter of days. A man who despite several orders from the court hadnt given the alimony to his estranged wife since January 2017, was quick to sign cheques after the Supreme Court sent him to jail for not abiding by courts orders. A Man from Uttar Pradesh was first directed in January 2017 to pay his wife Rs 4.75 lakh of outstanding alimony, but he didnt pay which forced his wife to move to court in contempt of court plea in September 2017 and the man was issued a show-cause notice. Read more In has been well over eight decades, but they continue to inspire us, with their love for India and the sacrifice they made for the country's freedom, at a very young age. On Saturday, India paid homages to the memories of three of the most shining icons of the country's freedom struggle - Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru, and Sukhdev Thapar, three unparalleled revolutionaries in history. Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev were hanged by the British on March 23, 1931, in Lahore Central Jail which was then a part of British India. As a mark of respect for their contributions, March 23 is observed as 'Martyrs Day'. The trio, were members of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association. Born on September 28, 1907, at Banga in Lyallpur district (now Pakistan) Singh got involved in socio-political movements and the freedom struggle at an early age. Singh who initially was a follower of the Gandhian way of peaceful and non-violent protests decided to take up arms following the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in 1919 and killing of unarmed Akali protesters at the Nankana Sahib in 1921. The turning point in his life was in 1928 when Lala Lajpat Rai, one of the founders of National College led a peaceful march against the Simon Commission on October 30. During the police crackdown on the demonstrators, Rai was badly injured and succumbed to his injuries on November 17. To avenge the killing Singh and his associates plotted to kill James A Scott, the police officer who ordered the crackdown. But in a case of mistaken identity another officer JP Saunders was killed by them. Singh and his associates had to flee Lahore to escape arrest in the case. The escape didn't last long as they got arrested in 1929 after the trio hurled a bomb at the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi to protest the implementation of the Defence of India Act and then surrendered. The trio who were arrested was tried for the murder of Saunders and hanged on March 23, 1931, when Singh and Sukhdev were 23 old and Rajguru was just 22. Singh who was born into a Sikh family, however, held himself as an atheist. As far as political ideology was concerned, Singh subscribed to socialism and Communism and used to write for Punjabi and Urdu language newspapers about Marxism. He is credited with popularizing the catchphrase Inquilab zindabad (Long live the revolution). A video of a village elder in North Kashmirs Hajin area pleading two Lashkar-e- Taiba terrorists for releasing a 12-year-old boy who was held captive and was killed on Thursday. Mir Mohalla, the elder could be seen saying this is not Jihad but Jahalat referring to the abduction of the child by terrorists. But those who claim to be doing Jihad for Kashmiris killed the little boy in the name of it. Mir made appeals to two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, Ali alias Furkan and Hubaib, to release Atif Mir. The incident took place 33 km in the north of Srinagar where the terrorists had taken shelter at the boys home at gunpoint, the police official said on Friday. AP The police also told that terrorists also wanted to sexually abuse his sister but the family made her escape and this irked the terrorists and they beat up the family including the little boy and his uncle Hameed Mir, they said. After listening to their cries, other people in the locality informed the police. The police managed to secure the release of the family but the little boy and his uncle were trapped inside. We knew that the boy and uncle were trapped inside and, so, we asked the villagers to appeal to the terrorists to release them, a senior official said. AP The village head appealed the terrorist to release the boy. Do whatever you want, but this is not Jihad but Jahalat. Please release the boy, he said. The video of this is on social media as well. The police also asked wife of boys uncle Hameed who was trapped inside to appeal to the terrorists to release her husband and nephew. AP After the intervention, the police made room and brought Hameed out of the house and later he told that he was assault with iron roads and rifle. I tried my best to get my nephew out of this. I begged them but they remained unmoved, Hameed told the police. But despite pleading numerous times, the terrorists killed Atif after the security forces killed both terrorists who were Pakistanis. One of the two terrorists Ali was said to be active in the area for long and involved in the killing of a BSF soldier and others including a man whose throat was slit allegedly by him in front of his son. (With PTI inputs) The Islamic State in a statement has said that Shafi Armar, a resident of Bhatkal in Karnataka whom the Indian and the US intelligence designated as the main recruiter for IS in India has been killed in fighting in IS last stronghold in Syria. The reports of his death had earlier surfaced in 2017 as well. The statement said that Shafi Armar alias Yusuf al-Hindi was one of the founding members of Ansar-ul-Tawhid and on March 19, he died fighting the Syrian coalition forces. The Hindustan Times had reported the same. afp The statement also says that Armar was one of the first fighters who pledged his allegiance to IS. Sultan Armar alias Abdul Rehman al-Hindi, Armars brother had founded Ansar-ul-Tawhid and IS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi had received his allegiance. He had also died in Kobani in Syria a few years ago, it added. Armar was among most wanted in the list on NIA and he and his brother travelled to Afghanistan first and then to Syria The US had designated him a global terrorist in 2017. Thanks to one man's quick thinking, a 13-year-old boy is still alive. P. Ravikumar, a freelance photographer with Reuters was recently on an assignment to capture the Holi festivities in Chennai. In a blog he wrote for Reuters, Ravikumar recounts how just 10 minutes into capturing pictures of revellers, he found a boy collapsed in a pool of coloured water. Reuters The boy was part of an indoor Holi festivial organised by a private agency and nearly 1,000 people were part of it. "Moments later there was a commotion, and suddenly I was confronted by a boy who seemed to have stopped breathing," Ravikumar wrote for Reuters. Without further ado, Ravikumar performed CPR and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Reuters 'Egged on by my friends, I kept at it for four to five minutes and then finally he started to move his eyes, slowly,' said Ravikumar adding that no one knows how the boy collapsed. 'He vomited water, then blood. Somebody took him to the hospital in an autorickshaw, instead of waiting for an ambulance to arrive,' he added. 'Only a couple of months ago I lost my 76-year-old mother, who had a breathing problem, despite me and my sister doing CPR while taking her to hospital.' Ravikumar learned CPR during an NGO demo and he stressed on the need for everyone to be aware of this life-saving skill. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form This investigation has led to criminal charges against various parties connected to Trump and his campaign, including former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and attorney Michael Cohen. Its certain that Russia interfered in the election, and certain that some Trump associates broke the law. Yet there have been no official allegations against Trump involving the seminal allegation here: that he or his top aides illegally schemed with a foreign power. Trump brought the Mueller probe on himself by firing Comey, who previously led the investigation into Russian meddling, but whether the presidents rash decision broke the law is one of many questions Mueller apparently examined. Members of the National Students Union of India, the student wing of India's opposition Congress party, take part in a demonstration against the increase in lawlessness and unemployment in India under the the ruling alliance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Aug. 8, 2018. (Sajjad Hussain/AFP/Getty Images) MSIG has been doing business in Vietnam for 25 years, beginning with a representative office in Hanoi in 1994. In 2009, a subsidiary office, MSIG Insurance (Vietnam), was established. The company began by supporting Japanese corporate clients, then later branched out to serve the general public and develop its bancassurance channels, a statement from MSIG said. Since its establishment, MSIG Insurance (Vietnam) has been contributing to the development of the Vietnamese economy by supporting the expansion of Japanese corporate businesses through general insurance solutions, said Hara. Today, we also support Vietnamese corporate businesses and the portfolio of non-Japanese clients has increased to 20%. During the celebrations, Vietnams Finance Ministry awarded MSIG with a certificate of merit, recognising the companys efforts in contributing to the development of Vietnams insurance industry from 2009 to 2018. McDonalds vs. Burger King: An Overview Like PepsiCo, Inc., versus the Coca-Cola Company, or Ford Motor Company versus General Motors Company, the battle between McDonald's Corporation (NYSE: MCD) and Burger King represents one of the great rivalries in American business history. For more than 60 years, McDonald's has been the trailblazer that set the standard by which all other franchises operated. But there are signs those roles may be reversing. A revitalized Burger King is forcing McDonald's to adjust to it, not the other way around. McDonald's and Burger King started in the franchise food business in 1955 and 1954, respectively. McDonald's has always been the larger company, but each firm has unquestionably influenced the other throughout their six-decade-plus rivalry. Key Takeaways McDonald's has the highest market capitalization of any fast-food restaurant chain in the U.S. Its vast size and global reach represent challenges on their own. Burger King's turnaround has allowed it to challenge McDonald's supremacy on quality and price. Each restaurant boasts iconic products. Burger King has the Whopper sandwich, and McDonald's counters with the Big Mac and Quarter Pounder. The Whopper and Big Mac are the two best-selling burgers of all time. Burger King boasted 1.7 billion Whopper sales per year in 2002. McDonald's reached that same figure with Big Macs in 2017. Each firm continues to push its international presence, although with mixed results. One reason is culture. Many Europeans, for instance, consider fast-food to be a quintessentially American tradition. Food menus for Burger King and McDonald's sometimes struggle to appeal to foreign consumers, leaving international markets underdeveloped, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. McDonald's: The Real King of Burgers McDonald's has the highest market capitalization of any fast-food restaurant chain in the U.S., at more than $168 billion in October 2020. (It's worth noting that Subway has more stores and Starbucks has higher revenues.) It has 36,000 franchises in nearly 120 countries, employs 1.9 million people, and serves more than 70 million meals every day. $168 billion McDonald's market cap as of October 2020. But Subway has more stores globally, at 44,758, and Starbucks has higher revenue, at $26.5 billion in 2019. McDonald's locations brought in more than $21 billion in 2019. Even with growth figures slumping since early 2014, McDonald's sits atop the fast-food world. But those slumping figures should concern investors, who have not realized a great return for several years. MCD performed admirably during and immediately after the global recession of 20082009. It turns out cheap fast-food is essentially recession-proof, but 2014 was the worst year for the company since 2003. Under Ray Kroc, its founding franchising visionary, McDonald's became the world's premier food brand by selling the rights to operate a McDonald's store. With this model, MCD keeps overhead costs down and lets local owners deal with individual units. Food costs remain low and service remains fast for a culture increasingly on the go. The Burden of Size But big businesses struggle to continue growing once they reach a certain size. It is logistically difficult to innovate or address individual business concerns when a burger empire spans 120 countries. McDonald's CEO Steve Easterbrook gave a presentation to shareholders in the second quarter of 2015 to address concerns over performance. His turnaround strategy included an intentional examination of Burger King's recent success. It is not likely that McDonald's will be able to slash management and administrative expenses by more than 25%, as Burger King managed to do between 2011 and 2013. But it is telling that Easterbrook identified re-franchising company-owned restaurants as a way to drive up margins. Burger King: A Fast-Food Revival After a tumultuous and disappointing start to the 21st century, Burger King's shareholders saw The Wendy's Company, Subway, and Starbucks take turns passing them as McDonald's' chief competitor, at least in terms of sales revenue. Then, private equity firm 3G Capital purchased the struggling giant for $4 billion in 2010. It ignited a recovery effort that has turned out to be quite successful. Burger King merged with Canadian coffee staple Tim Hortons in 2014 to form a new publicly-traded company called Restaurant Brands International (NYSE:QSR). Trimming the Fat By Q3 2017, Burger King was outperforming McDonald's and Wendy's by significant margins. A report by Citi Research concluded that 3G Capital made two significant strategic adjustments: trimming business fat and simplifying its public image. It worked, and operating margins grew from 17% in Q2 2011 to more than 40% by the third quarter of 2018. The primary revenue stream for Burger King Worldwide (BKW) comes from franchises, including royalties and fees; royalties come from a percentage of revenue from each unit. As of 2020, 99.7% of Burger King locations are franchised. Doubling the Stakes At a time when the McDonald's menu is as complicated as ever, creating record drive-thru wait times, according to Citi Research, Burger King is repackaging or rebranding old items to help consumers out. One part of the revival strategy is directly challenging to McDonald's products. In November 2013, Burger King introduced the Big King sandwich, with two patties, a three-layer bun, and a special sauce, as a not-so-subtle competitor to the successful Big Mac from McDonald's. When McDonald's brought back the McRib sandwich, Burger King unveiled a $1 BK BBQ Rib as a cheaper alternative. In 2018, Burger King announced a double quarter-pound burger in a direct shot at McDonald's' quarter-pound burger. The Coffee Wars Next came a new fleet of coffee products from Burger King to challenge the McCafe menu. McDonald's made waves years ago by partnering with Starbucks to create a recyclable-compostable coffee cup. So Burger King targeted and acquired Tim Hortons, Inc., the leading Canadian coffee and donut outlet. Stock prices for both companies soared after the CA$12.5 billion deal, including CA$3 billion in financing from Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway. There is no confusion about Burger King's value proposition. It is just as good as McDonald's with the same products, just slightly more upscale and, sometimes, lower prices. Franchises Meaningfully investing in Burger King and McDonald's usually means buying and operating a new franchise unit. Since each company operates on an international level and no two markets are identical, the easiest way to compare franchising options is to look at Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs). According to the 2020 FDD for McDonald's, the initial investment amount for a McDonald's franchise falls between $1.3 million and $2.3 million. The corporation also charges an initial franchise fee of $45,000. Burger King's franchises require similar investments. The 2020 BK FDD suggests that, excluding the costs of real estate acquisition and improvement, total initial investments fall between $333,100 and $3.4 million, with an initial franchise fee of up to $50,000. Trust is a bedrock attribute when it comes to the food supply. Consumers want to know that the provenance and safety of their food can be assured, which has opened the door in the agricultural world to the heralded, 21st-century technology of blockchain. Initially created to enable cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, this distributed ledger software technology has been embraced by the financial services industry as well as in other safety-conscious arenas such as healthcare, insurance and more. A high-level understanding of blockchain makes clear its appeal to the agriculture sector. Blockchain is a distributed database that maintains an always-growing list of records that are protected from tampering and can't be revised. Each valid block is made of time-stamped transactions and linked to a previous block, with the whole forming a secure chain. With blockchain, credentials for storage, transport, provenance and export can all be integrated and linked back to farm-level data, providing further transparency throughout the process. It makes possible efficient, less-wasteful product recalls, creates an immutable barrier to tampering, fraud or threat and brings farmers and consumers together. Like other highly touted technologies such as AI and Internet of Things, pursuing blockchain applications for the ag-tech market is vastly appealing but puts demands on U.S. companies such as finding qualified personnel, attracting funding and collaborative partners as well as identifying optimal locales where food production and technology overlap. For these reasons, many American companies have been using Ireland as a resource in their pursuit of blockchain solutions for their sector. Agriculture and tech in Ireland Ireland's confluence of food production with its rapidly growing technology community has set the stage for a budding environment for creating blockchain applications in agriculture there. Observing the landscape, in which agriculture and technology are joined with an active research milieu and strong government support of entrepreneurship, provides a roadmap of how blockchain in ag-tech can thrive. According to Dr. John Breslin, a senior lecturer and leader of innovation programs at the National University of Ireland, Galway, who also plays a key role in a major R&D program called VistaMilk covering the dairy industry, "Many agrifood and technology companies are developing solutions to leverage blockchain for improved traceability." Examples include "animal drug traceability -- to reduce drug usage and dependency -- or for protecting farm infrastructure. Ive recently been working with a student on tracing farm machinery and their service/sale records using blockchain," he explained. According to Dr. Breslin, a number of American companies such as ConsenSys, IBM and Fidelity are working on various blockchain projects in Ireland while Deloitte has established a regional blockchain innovation lab there. IBM Ireland Research is conducting a blockchain project on food traceability from point of origin to consumers. Given the importance of cattle to Ireland's economy -- beef dominates its large output of meat and the nation is a sizeable milk producer -- there are many blockchain projects underway in this area. We are working to modernize supply chain assurance for beef and dairy farmers, said Dr. Breslin. He also mentioned efforts involving livestock selection by tracking breeding and artificial insemination. Blockchain can enable the monitoring of genetic trait performance, animal health and welfare, right through to the food-processing stage. Multiple blockchain activities Drawing on its expansive international technology sector -- eight of the world's top 10 tech companies have facilities in Ireland -- it is becoming a laboratory for innovative ag-tech projects using blockchain. The Irish operation of Moyee Coffee is running a pilot project to provide supply chain transparency while making real-time payments to Ethiopian farmers for their coffee beans. Irish craft beer producer Downstream Beer is using blockchain to inform consumers about anything they want to know about beer ingredients and brewing methods. New company Claru is demonstrating the provenance of Irish food products using blockchain from farm to fork to make it easily accessible to consumers. Another young company, Origin Chain, offers a digital trust platform that provides environmental and sustainability credentials of food and other products. One of these promising operations is Farmeye, whose technology offers a secure, blockchain-enabled digital chain of custody for agricultural soil samples with environmental laboratories as the customer. However, what's also notable about Farmeye is the fact it was spun out from Ireland's active university research sector and received funding from one of the new incubators there that is supporting ag-tech startups. Collaborative environment One of the major attractants for U.S. technology companies establishing operations in Ireland is the nation's reputation for an unusual degree of collaboration between government, industry and academia. For example, Blockchain Ireland is a government and IDA-funded initiative with broad participation by companies -- IBM and Fidelity included -- as well as Ireland's sizeable university and research sectors. This organization is working with many international companies to move blockchain technology forward. The Irish government has also funded the CeADAR (National Center for Applied Data Analytics and AI) center located at University College Dublin. According to Center Director Dr. Edward McDonnell, the center has collaborated on blockchain projects with US firms such as Accenture, State Street, Fidelity and Liberty. We have also worked in agritech, where we have done several commercially confidential blockchain projects," he said. Like other research operations in Ireland, CeADAR has tapped into EU funding to collaboratively develop promising new blockchain applications. Producing trained workers In addition to its community of high-tech incubators, Ireland has two ag-tech accelerators where blockchain is one of the exciting technologies. The Pearse Lyons Accelerator is supported by agriculture giant, U.S.-headquartered Alltech, and Yield Lab Galway is the European office of Yield Lab in St. Louis. These incubators can draw on Ireland's large, well-educated technology workforce but efforts are underway to produce more professionals savvy about the cryptography and advanced algorithm development used in blockchain. For example, the National University of Ireland Galway has graduate programs in agrifood that also train students in entrepreneurship while affiliated organization such as TechInnovate train professionals, identify promising technologies and spin out companies whose products can be used internationally. Another training source is the government-funded Skillnet program, which works with companies to design focused curriculum that will produce graduates for companies located in Ireland. In fact, IBM Research is working with Skillnet on a training program to develop the software skills needed in blockchain. Ireland's collaborative environment, flourishing technology sector and appealing levels of funding are seen in increasing ag-tech research as well as entrepreneurship that is being exploited by U.S. companies hoping to use blockchain in their future solutions. Edited by Ken Briodagh Shell make sure that no matter the neighborhood you call home, who you love or pray to, and whether or not you were born here or came here, that youre given every opportunity to thrive as part of Chicagos future, Mendoza says in the clip. Britain will be blocked from taking part in the upcoming EU elections, one of Europe's most influential politicians has suggested. Leader of the European People's Party (EPP) Manfred Weber has cast serious doubts on a long Brexit extension after he said allowing the UK to take part in May's European Elections would be a step too far and countries have already made significant compromises. If Britain were given a long-term extension to Article 50, they would have to elect MEPs. This would have knock-on impacts on other EU countries who have gained seats after the reallocation of the UKs 73 EU parliament seats. EPP leader @ManfredWeber is greeted by @simoncoveney as he arrives at the Fine Gael national conference in Wexford #iestaff pic.twitter.com/lYYU094o4B Elaine Loughlin (@Elaine_Loughlin) March 23, 2019 Ireland received two additional seats, bringing its total to 13. But these seats would be put on ice if Brexit is extended beyond April 12. "There are a lot of voices who will not accept that Great Britain will participate in the elections, I myself I must tell you I cannot explain to people in Spain, Greece, in Finland or even here in Ireland that a country that is leaving the European Union has a big say in the future of the European Union, that is a big question on the table," said Mr Weber who is widely tipped to become the next president of the European Commission. Speaking at the Fine Gael national conference in Wexford, Mr Weber said: We cannot accept that the uncertainty in London is now infecting the European decision-making process. We need legal and political certainty before the European elections take place. Tanaiste Simon Coveney said the Government have made plans to allow for a scenario where the two extra EU seats are put on hold. "I think that would have a disruptive impact and would may not be facilitated any way but even if it was, we do have a legal mechanism that would essentially meant that two of the 13, the last elected in Ireland South and the last elected in Dublin would essentially not take their seats until that vacancy arose when the UK leaves the EU and therefore withdraws from the European parliament." In #Wexford, young Irish farmers told me about the challenges they are faced with & their concerns about the impact of #Brexit on their livelihoods.The @EPP has always been a strong supporter of farmers & we will do our utmost to help them. They can count on us. #Listeningtour19 pic.twitter.com/Ylcr79TUuo Manfred Weber (@ManfredWeber) March 23, 2019 However, he said British involvement in the EU elections is "very unlikely" at this stage. But Mr Weber warned that other countries are not as prepared as Ireland. "Not all countries have the same legal conditions for preparing for two scenarios". He said this presents "legal problems on the table due to the uncertainty from London and that is what we cannot accept". The German politician added that last week's agreement by EU leaders to provide a short Brexit extension should not be "underestimated" as it was "already a kind of compromise". Thousands of testimonies relating to child abuse in institutions and related records should be redacted and anonymised, instead of being sealed for 75 years. That is according to the former head of special projects at the National Archives of Ireland, Catriona Crowe, who is one of the most vocal critics of the proposed Retention of Records Bill 2019. The planned legislation will see records from the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse, the Residential Institutions Redress Board, and Residential Institutions Redress Review Committee put in the National Archives of Ireland and sealed for a minimum of 75 years. The Department of Education said consideration was given to alternative approaches to sealing the records, including anonymisation and redaction. However, this approach was ruled out over concerns that such a process could rob them of part of their historical significance. Tanaiste Simon Coveney has strongly denied that European leaders have become frustrated with Ireland over its failure to plan to secure the border in the case of a no-deal Brexit. At this weeks EU summit, German chancellor Angela Merkel demanded that the EU establish a special taskforce on how to prevent a hard Irish border in a no-deal Brexit, warning that Ireland faces the nightmare scenario in just three weeks if nothing is done. The Irish Examiner has learned that EU leaders discussed in detail for the first time the pressing need for a fall-back solution to the looming crisis, at a crunch summit meeting on Thursday night. Speaking at his partys national conference in Wexford, Mr Coveney said the sensitivities around the border are well understood. First of all, I dont accept your assumption that there is clearly a frustration with Ireland, said Mr Coveney. There isnt actually. There is an understanding across the EU that the border question is a very emotive and very political question on this island. In London, British prime minister Theresa May sent a letter to her MPs yesterday, suggesting she might not bring her EU withdrawal deal back to parliament for a third time next week if there was not enough support for it to be passed. If it appears there is not sufficient support to bring the deal back next week, or the House rejects it again, we can ask for another extension before April 12 but that will involve holding European Parliament elections, she wrote in a letter seen by the BBC. If it appears that there is sufficient support and the Speaker permits it, we can bring the deal back next week and if it is approved we can leave on 22 May. In Brussels, after five hours of intense talks, the EU summit agreed to delay next Fridays Brexit deadline until either April 12 or May 22, with the later date only on the table if MPs back the twice-rejected EU-UK deal next week. However, high-level sources confirmed that once Ms May left the meeting, EU leaders raised serious concerns over the no-deal threat and how it could cause a hard border. Sources said Ms Merkel was particularly vocal on the issue, repeatedly telling the EUs chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier a special solution must be found. While it is understood no formal request was made for a special internal EU group to be set up to help avoid the risk, it was agreed that the existing Barnier Brexit taskforce would ramp up work on finding a way to side-step a no-deal border over the next three weeks. One official said it was the first time EU leaders had tried to crystalise what no-deal means in practical terms. Asked about the talks at an end-of-summit press conference in Brussels, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said that while no new task force is being established, discussions did take place on those kind of difficult discussions weve said well have to have. What that derives from is something weve spoken about before, which is what would happen in a no-deal scenario, said Mr Varadkar. How would we uphold the Good Friday Agreement and keep the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland open and still fulfil our obligations under the European treaties? Mr Varadkar said he believes the only way to avoid a hard border is special arrangements, and the detail of those well need to work through, adding: If you want to know what they look like, they look like the backstop. A man accused of being the "world's largest" child porn facilitator has been extradited to the United States. Eric Eoin Marques was surrendered to FBI Agents at Dublin Airport this morning, and is due in court on Monday. Mr Marques' extradition was sought by the US over allegations that he conspired to distribute and advertise child pornography on the dark web. He lived in New York until he was five-years-old with his Brazilian father and Irish mother, and has been in Ireland since. He has dual citizenship. Mr Marques has been in custody since August of 2013 when he was arrested at his apartment on Mountjoy Square in Dublin City Centre. His surrender was approved in 2015, but was not executed to allow him appeal the decision. Last Wednesday, after failed attempts before the High Court and the Court of Appeal, the Supreme Court ruled against his appeal, paving the way for his surrender. Gardai have confirmed that Eric Eoin Marques was met by FBI agents in Dublin Airport this morning, and will appear in court in the US on Monday. A teenager who hit the director of a childrens detention centre on the head with a metal bar and smashed up the centre has been jailed for four years. Michael Ward, aged 19, of Gleann Riada, Strokestown Rd, Co Longford, pleaded guilty to criminal damage, assault causing harm, and assault while attempting to commit theft at Oberstown Childrens Detention Campus, Lusk, Co Dublin, on May 29, 2017. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Ward is currently serving a four-year sentence, with the final 12 months suspended, for criminal damage offences also committed at Oberstown. Garda Vincent Tierney told Pieter Le Vert, prosecuting, that on the evening in question, Ward asked a staff member at Oberstown if he could use the bathroom. On their way to the bathroom, Ward began jostling with the staff member who initially thought he was joking. Ward told him not to take this personally and they began to struggle. Ward grabbed the mans security fob, pulled a broken piece of a ceramic plate from his shorts, and said Dont fucking come near me. Ward and a number of other youths barricaded themselves in an office and armed themselves with metal table legs. The staff member observed Ward break a sink off the wall of the staff bathroom and smash it over the toilet. Pat Bergin, the campus director, arrived at the scene and attempted to prevent the removal of bars from the office doors smashed window. Ward reached through the window and swung the metal bar, hitting Mr Bergin in the head and causing him to start bleeding. Ward removed a radiator from a wall and used it as a battering ram to get into a hallway. He and two others obtained an angle grinder from a maintenance shed and used it to cut their way through the campus fence. He was brought back to Oberstown after the escape and told gardai he had walked to his grandmothers home in Crumlin after getting through the fence. He said the incident was not planned and he had not intended to strike Mr Bergin in the head. The total cost of the damage done to Oberstown was 17,135. Judge Patricia Ryan imposed a four-year sentence for the assaults and a concurrent sentence of five years for the damage. She suspended the last year of both terms after taking into consideration his effort to rehabilitate, his early guilty plea, his young age, and his apology. Ward has 56 previous convictions, including convictions for theft, burglary, handling stolen property, criminal damage, and public order offences. Garda Tierney accepted the assertion of Dean Kelly, defending, that while obviously the behaviour described in your evidence is appalling, Ward could be a charming young man. Mr Kelly said the incident was not a prison break but was rather a case of three young men going wild. He said that Ward walking across Dublin in the dead of night to his grandmothers house was not the act of a master criminal. The war on single-use plastic has begun in earnest in Ireland with businesses, environmental groups, and a prominent GAA club joining the battle to cut its use. Building material group, Kingspan, has partnered with a foundation that removes plastic from the ocean and plans to reuse as much of the plastic recovered as it can in the production of insulation products. Friends of the Earth has partnered with Voice Ireland to empower communities to take action on single-use plastics while Youghal GAA has joined forces with Refill Ireland to encourage the use of reusable water bottles. Kingspan plans to use 500m recycled plastic bottles a year in its insulation products by 2023. The three-year partnership with the EcoAlf Foundation will see it help to remove up to 150 tonnes of waste from the Mediterranean each year. Todays announcement forms part of a longer-term strategy we are developing around supporting the circular economy and increasing our use of recycled materials, said Kingspan CEO, Gene Murtagh. With the construction industry contributing 30% of all the global waste that goes into landfill, it is vital that we find responsible ways to reduce waste at all points in the supply chain. Friends of the Earth and Voice Ireland have launched Sick Of Plastic, a nationwide campaign to cut the use of plastics. Pointing out that Irish companies, shops and households generate twice the EU average of plastic waste, the organisations want a nationwide deposit-return scheme, a tax on single-use cups and a ban on single-use plastics. They are also demanding that supermarkets reduce plastic packaging. Last year the campaign mobilised thousands of consumers to leave their plastic packaging behind in supermarkets in protest against single-use, non-recyclable packaging. However, the campaigners say consumers are already doing their bit: When the plastic bag tax was introduced in Ireland in 2001, there was a 90% drop in plastic bag use. Yet the amoung of plastic packing used in Ireland has nearly doubled in the last five years and households are left to sort it and recycle what they can. Its not fair. Meanwhile, Youghal GAA has joined the environmental initiative Refill Ireland to refilling reusable water bottles at refill stations and ditch single-use plastic bottles. As a way of promoting the use of reusable water bottles, Youghal GAA is signing up to Refill Ireland to encourage club members, players, visitors and members of the public to fill their water bottles at its outdoor tap. When this initiative was brought to our attention we didnt need much convincing that this is a very good idea for both the community and for our club, said Eochaill Og chairman, Hugh Dorrian. Its a great privilege to be able to play a small part in influencing young peoples habits around the use of plastics. Im delighted that Youghal GAA has stepped up to reduce plastic-bottle waste, which ultimately will help to keep Youghal streets, beaches and water free of waste plastic. According to Martha Doyle of Cork Environmental Forum: People want to help stop plastic pollution, and Refill puts the power in peoples hands to do that. We are very proud that Youghal GAA is coming onboard and showing itself to be a great community leader. An Anglo-Irish peer has emerged victorious in a planning row with his local council over plans for a memorial to honour Limerick people killed during the First World War. Edmund Pery, the 7th Earl of Limerick, has successfully appealed the decision of Limerick City and County Council to refuse planning permission for his project to erect a monument in the citys Peoples Park to commemorate more than 1,350 Limerick men and women, both military and civilians, who lost their lives during the war. An Bord Pleanala has ruled that the proposed memorial, which consists of a 4.25m-high stone cross plus eight stone tablets containing the names of the victims and three stone benches, would integrate in a satisfactory manner with the existing park. Subject to a number of planning conditions, the board says it would not adversely impact on the existing recreational uses of the park, nor detract from its character and setting. A man previously jailed for damaging a 10m Monet painting has had second-thoughts about representing himself in an appeal for handling another artwork stolen from a stately home. Andrew Shannon, aged 54, was found guilty of handling a stolen Frederick Goodall piece at his home address at Willians Way, Ongar, Clonsilla, Dublin 15, on January 31, 2014. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that the Goodall desert scene oil painting dating to 1892 was stolen from Bantry House, Seafield, Co Cork, in March 2006. Gardai obtained a warrant to search Shannons home on an unrelated matter in 2014 and noticed various pieces of art hanging on his walls one of which was the Goodall oil painting, valued at approximately 5,000. Shannon was found guilty by a jury following a two-day trial and sentenced to two years imprisonment by Judge Patricia Ryan last November. He was due to appeal his conviction for handling the stolen Goodall piece today. However, he sacked his solicitor last month and was prepared to represent himself for the appeal. President of the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice George Birmingham, told Shannon that his legal submissions contained some pretty fundamental misunderstandings about the role of an appeal court. He said the three-judge court was not convinced youd be doing yourself justice if you proceed on your own behalf. You might be better off putting the matter back and getting a solicitor and counsel. Shannon told the judge that Mountjoy Prison is not a country club and access to legal resources is not easy. He said he had approached a high-profile criminal defence solicitor to represent him but this solicitor wanted three-and-a-half grand to deal with the case, and I cant afford that. Shannon, who was on legal aid in the circuit court, agreed to find another solicitor to represent him in his appeal. Mr Justice Birmingham, who sat with Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, said the court will slot the case into May 16 next for hearing. Shannon has 51 previous convictions including convictions for theft, burglary, and handling stolen property. Many of these convictions relate to the theft of antiques and the burglarising of stately homes. He was previously jailed for damaging the 1874 impressionist painting Argenteuil Basin with a Single Sail Boat by Claude Monet at the National Gallery of Ireland on Clare St on June 29, 2012. He was found guilty of damaging the Monet by a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and sentenced to six years imprisonment with the final 18 months suspended by Judge Martin Nolan in December 2014. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court was told that Shannon has been attending art classes in Mountjoy Prison on a regular basis. The Supreme Courts decision to allow the extradition of Eric Eoin Marques to the US this week ended a five- and-a-half year battle by the Dubliner to be allowed to face justice at home. But while those five and a half years have opened up many nooks and crannies in the countrys extradition laws and procedures to scrutiny, the protracted process has shed little light on the man at the centre of the saga. Marques, now aged 33, is facing charges in the US of involvement in a massive international network of buyers, sellers and distributors of child pornography. The allegation is that he provided the online technology the web hosting space for websites offering the most vile child abuse imagery, enabling them to operate under the radar in the unregulated darknet and making him, as the court heard, the largest facilitator of child porn on the planet. His mastery of web technology self taught is not in doubt, but conflicting versions of his character and motivations remain. He might be a young man with socialisation difficulties and a late diagnosis of Aspergers syndrome who has spent half his life at a remove from the real world, gradually getting sucked into a criminal enterprise via the one thing he excelled at. Or he may be a greedy, cold-blooded criminal, cruelly indifferent to the appalling suffering and sick perversions his skills and expertise supported. Eric Eoin Marques This newspaper examined some of his online footprint in 2017, and found traces of a man who regularly exchanged news and views with other technology anoraks in online chatrooms and forums but who seemed oblivious to or apathetic about the nature of the activity he was facilitating. It was just something to do for fun. I did not expect to make any money from it, he enthused in one exchange, recounting how he set up his web-hosting business. I learned a lot by offering free hosting before I started doing paid. Now its running for 3 years and making more money then [sic] I could have ever imagined possible. A complete success. But he was so caught up in his own success that he casually dismissed warnings from other users that he was straying into dangerous territory. During one online exchange in 2012, he griped about the fact that his German internet service provider, Hetzner, had disconnected one of his servers over what he called a fake child porn complaint. He moaned that he got less than an hours notice that he was to be cut off and when he contacted the company, the person dealing with the matter had gone home and would not be available until the following day. The site in question contains no child porn. It is a site with Japanese cartoons, and has been on the server since 2006, he added as a by the way. But others in the chatroom quickly saw a red flag. You do realise that in many countries even imagery (real or not) depicting underage sex can be cause for legal recourse? wrote one. Your page has countless things written on it that could get you in trouble here in the USA, the correspondent continued. You need to talk to a lawyer or something to make sure what youre doing is legal. Marques replied with a virtual shrug. Its not actually my site. Its a free hosting customer, he replied. Before the complaint today, I did not even know this site existed. There are 30k+ accounts on that one server alone. I do not live in the US and the server is in Germany. Other forum members stressed the seriousness of the issue. One even referenced the relevant section of German law under which Hetzner had to act or else face hell on earth with German law enforcement. Marques just went on complaining that hed been put out but his online pen pals continued to try to focus his attention. One noted that Marques had advertised his company as US-based. If certain federal agencies here in the US were to be tipped off about this, youd have some knocks on your door and be in some serious trouble, he wrote. I would strongly suggest finding a way to audit these 30,000 free accounts you have hosted before you end up finding yourself in jail over kiddie porn. Marques remained unconcerned. I think the feds have better things to do then [sic] go after cartoons, he replied, and signed off with a smiley face emoji. The following year, in August 2013, Marques was arrested by gardai in Dublin on foot of an FBI extradition warrant. It turned out the feds, busy as they were, considered nabbing him a very good use of their time. When he first appeared in court here under an application to approve his extradition, special agent Brooke Donahue of the FBI did not mince his words, telling the judge that Marques was wanted on charges in the US because he was the largest facilitator of child porn on the planet. His evidence was that Marques provided the technology for advertising and distribution by a global network made up of more than a hundred horrific websites containing millions of pornographic images. The material uncovered by the FBI included websites depicting extreme violence against children, including rape and torture. Some of the victims were babies. Marques was facing up to 30 years in prison on each of four charges. In aggravating circumstances, those same charges can warrant life imprisonment. The case was adjourned to hear submissions from the Irish authorities extradition is never granted lightly but Marques was refused bail and he has been in custody ever since. Marques was born to an Irish mother and Portuguese father who later split up. Marques was living in his fathers apartment in Mountjoy Square in Dublin when he was arrested, and it was there that the computer containing the majority of the evidence against him was found. Detectives found evidence that he had earned 1.15m between 2007 and 2013, taking in 250,000 in the year before his arrest. He had routed money through Romania, had a US bank account and mailbox facility, and had researched US passport templates and security features but had also sought information on visa requirements for Russia which has no extradition agreement with the US. It looked like he had been preparing to run. After a few months in custody, Marques lawyers delivered a surprise their client was willing to plead guilty if he could be tried in Ireland where charges similar to those preferred by the FBI carry a maximum 14-year prison sentence. But the Director of Public Prosecutions refused to prosecute and the next five years were taken up by a succession of applications, judicial reviews, and appeals in three layers of courts, as Marques lawyers sought to get explanations both from the DPP and the minister for justice. Over the course of numerous hearings, a few details would emerge about Marques life. He had been referred to a psychiatrist as a young teenager but no specific diagnosis resulted. It was only when assessed in prison that his Aspergers syndrome was discovered. He spent his time largely indoors on a Playstation or the web, emerging mainly to eat his meals in McDonalds and for regular appointments with escorts. He claimed to have a girlfriend in Romania but her existence was not proven and it was not clear what he had done with the money he made. Ultimately, his legal team got little by way of explanation about the other under-the-radar world affecting his case the secret workings of the DPPs office. But what they did get on Wednesday was a final decision from the Supreme Court that the extradition request and approval were in order and Marques was to be handed over to the US authorities. Five and a half years on, his battle with the law is only beginning. Update: March 23: Jamie Walsh has been found safe and well. Gardai in Dublin are looking for the public's help to find a teenager missing from Rathfarnham since last Friday evening. 14-year-old Jamie Walsh is described as being 5' 4'' tall, of medium build with short brown hair. When last seen he was wearing a black bubble jacket, black tracksuit, and black runners. He's known to frequent the Tallaght, Clondalkin and City Centre area of Dublin. Anyone who has seen Jamie or can help find him is asked to contact Rathfarnham Garda Station on 01 6666500, The Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has promised to increase the entry point to the higher rate of tax to 50,000 over the next five years should he be re-elected to office. Delivering his keynote televised address to delegates at the Fine Gael national conference in Wexford on Saturday night, a bullish Taoiseach delivered a stinging attack on both Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein, eight weeks out from the local and European elections. He ruled out the possibility of any future coalition with Sinn Fein under any circumstances. Mr Varadkar's tax pledge aims to increase the point at which people pay the higher rate of tax to 50,000 for a single person and 100,000 for a couple. Join us for the address by Taoiseach @LeoVaradkar at our National Conference. #FGNC19 https://t.co/k8ftrvoj1D Fine Gael (@FineGael) March 23, 2019 Because there are more people working every year, and people are earning more, well take in about 1.8 billion extra in income tax. I want to give about half of that back to you, taxpayers and pensioners, he said. Mr Varadkar said this is a policy for the many, not the few, and will benefit more than a million people. If its not done, more and more people will fall into the high tax band every year losing most of any pay increase to the taxman. Thats not fair. And its something were going to change, he added. Mr Varadkar did admit to serious failing in relation to the National Children's Hospital, saying he and his party accept responsibility for the mistakes. I know there has been a lot of focus on the rising cost of the new National Childrens Hospital. First of all, I want to say to everyone at home, that we accept responsibility for the mistakes made in projecting the true cost of building this project, he said. We cannot claim the credit for things going well if we do not also accept responsibility when things go wrong. And this is one of those occasions. I promise you, we will learn the lessons and ensure it does not happen again. "But more importantly, now that its started, we are going to finish the job, he insisted. He paid tribute to the independent members of government, thanking them for their comradeship saying none of this would be possible without them. Despite relying on their support to remain in office, Mr Varadkar delivered a scathing verdict on Fianna Fail, describing it as a party with no ideas, no policies, no alternatives. Day 2 of the @FineGael National Conference is well underway in #Wexford. You can watch my speech live on @rte at 8.15pm tonight #FGNC19 pic.twitter.com/L9O6H70FjH Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) March 23, 2019 Im sorry Micheal, but hurling from the ditch isnt a policy, conspiracy theories dont constitute analysis, and finger-wagging isnt a solution, he said. In contrast, he said, Sinn Fein is a party with plenty of ideas and policies. Bad ones. Higher taxes, more borrowing, more debt. But the bigger problem I have is that the values of Sinn Fein are toxic, he said. We see it in the culture of bullying, in the personalised aggression in the Dail, and on those occasions when the mask slips. "They dont respect our Courts, they dont respect our Gardai, they dont respect any of the four parliaments they are elected to, including the ones they turn up for, they dont respect our democracy, he said. At some point between now and the summer of next year, there will be a General Election. And I can tell you tonight that under no circumstances will Fine Gael enter Government with Sinn Fein, he said. He went further by accusing Sinn Fein councillors of being duplicitous by complaining about the lack of jobs in their area, only to vote against jobs and housing when given the chance. Brexit also featured heavily in Mr Varadkar's speech and he said while Brexit will define and consume the United Kingdom for the next generation. It doesnt have to define us, he said. He set out a five-step vision for Ireland in the wake of the United Kingdom's exit from the EU. Those steps include: a strong economy which rewards work and backs business, a society in which nobody feels left out, one with world-class infrastructure, one with Ireland at the heart of Europe and one which seeks to protect our environment. A woman has died in a house fire in Co Meath. Gardai confirmed the woman died following the fire - which was in a house on Castlemartin Avenue, Bettystown at approximately 9.40 this morning. The deceased is in her 40s and she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her remains have been removed to the mortuary at Our Lady's Hospital, Navan where a post mortem will take place. Gardai in Laytown are investigating. I apologise in advance for this column as there is considerable decadence ahead. I was lucky enough to visit Adare Manor for one of their prized wine evenings recently, the good news however is that these evenings are open to anyone for approximately 75 to 85 per person excellent value given the wines being served. The next dinner is on April 4 and focused around the excellent Mas La Plana from Torres, often cited as one of the worlds best Cabernet Sauvignons see below. The man behind these dinners is head sommelier at Adare Jurica Gojevic, who has built up a very impressive cellar with wines such as Chateaux Petrus, Lafite, Mouton and Yquem plus stars from Burgundy, Italy and Spain. For our four course dinner we got to drink three vintages of Chateau Lagrange, a wine Ive followed for years. Lagrange is a Troisieme Grand Cru Classe (third Growth) from Saint Julien in the Medoc, the same commune as Leoville-Barton and Graud Larose Its near neighbour. Another neighbour is Larose Trintaudon/Larose Perganson which I recommend below. The 2000 and 2011 Lagrange were nicely matched with meltingly rich braised short rib beef the famed 2000 showed best with concentrated black fruits and supple tannins but the 2011 held its own despite being a rather forgotten vintage. The silkily delicious 1996 vintage shone with some mature Coolea cheese the 1996 is arguably the best vintage in the history of Lagrange according to winemaker Matthieu Bordes who introduced the wines and told us the history of the Chateau. For dessert Chateau Rayne-Vigneau Sauternes 2009 packed with honeyed apricots and tropical mango aromas and flavours and pristine acidity was matched with a light caramel mousse and mandarin sorbet. The wines on the night were supplied by Forrestal wines (forrestal.ie) who mainly sell to restaurants but also to private clients. Ron tells me he currently stocks Lagrange from 1996, 2000, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2011 and 2012 including some magnums. The less famous vintages always cost a little less and I picked up some excellent 2012 from a Lidl Christmas sale a few years ago. By coincidence Lidls 2019 French wine sale begins on Monday I recommend three solid Bordeaux from the sale below. For the Diary: Adare Manor, Torres Mas La Plana Wine Evening, Thursday, April 4, 85 per person, Tel: 061-605271 or email guestrelations@adaremanor.com BEST VALUE UNDER 15 Chateau Blagnac 2015, Haut Medoc, Bordeaux 11.99 Stockist: Lidl The Haut-Medoc is the southern section of the Medoc peninsula at higher elevation and contains 15 smaller communes (Pauillac, Saint-Julien). Aromas of light cedar, bright plum and blackcurrant fruits with the ripeness showing through, fruity and ripe with some youthful structure showing but overall this has remarkably good fruit and complexity for the price. Chateau Haut-Plaisance 2016, Montaigne Saint-Emilion 12.99 Stockist: Lidl From the largest satellite of Saint-Emilion (just to the north) which is usually a good source of fruit-driven Merlot-based Bordeaux. This has ripe blackberry and dark fruit aromas, structured and bright on the palate. This is still very youthful and would benefit from decanting (or up to three years in bottle) but with a steak this should show well. Chateau Graves de Rabion 2016, Saint-Emilion 11.99 Stockist: Lidl Saint- Emilion on the right bank of the Garonne often has the easiest drinking of all Bordeauxes. This is young but at 14% ABV and with dominant ripe fruits this is another find. Plums and pencil pairing aromas followed by a solidly fruity palate. Some will find this a little too New World in character but with a rich casserole or slow roast lamb this would be perfect. BEST VALUE OVER 15 Chateau Larose-Trintaudon 2014, Haut-Medoc Cru Bourgeois 29.99 Stockist: Karwigs, Vintry, Redmonds, McHughs, Fagans, www.wineonline.ie This vineyards of this Chateau were first planted in 1838 but the estate fell derelict until it was replanted in the 1960s. A large estate and always reliable the 2014 is fruit-driven and complex with classic structured fruit and tannins and good weight. The 2010 is still around (eg, Vintry) and is even better with extra depth and concentration. Chateau Larose-Perganson Haut-Medoc Cru Bourgeois 29.99 Stockist: World Wide Wines, Red Nose Wines, 64 Wines, Baggot St. Wines, Clontarf Wines, Vintry, Redmonds, Jus de Vine, Martins, www.wineonline.ie This Chateau was brought back to life after years of neglect by the owners of Trintaudon in the late 1980s and is now one of the most sustainable Chateau in Bordeaux. From a 35ha vineyard this often has silkier fruit than its big brother with fine-textured dark fruits and elegance. Chateau Lagrange 2006, Saint-Julien 3eme Grand Cru Classe 75-80 Stockist: www.forrestal.ie, Greenacres (various vintages), Mchughs, Jus de Vine As with most fine Bordeaux there is more than one importer and youll find different vintages in the shops mentioned above for top vintages (eg, 2009) the price jumps to 110-130. The 06 is underrated as is the 11 and 12, 1996 is gorgeous as is 2000 and 2005. After a chaotic 48 hours and more than a little political ducking and diving, next weeks looming Brexit cliff edge has been pushed back much to the relief of people who are in the direct firing line if it all goes wrong. But while calm has descended again, for now, the reality with the seemingly never-ending Brexit groundhog day is that even when one obstacle is just about avoided, several more are waiting just over the horizon. House Of Commons chaos Ms May faces another dance with political death next week when she tables her battered Brexit deal for a third time in the House of Commons, most likely on Tuesday. If MPs back it, the May 22 Brexit date is a certainty. Reject it, and the deadline cuts to April 12. French president Emmanuel Macron believes Ms May has just a 5% chance of the deal passing, hardly a ringing endorsement. And this grim prediction may explain why she will also table seven indicative options votes in the coming days. Rolling delays Taoiseach Leo Varadkar insisted yesterday that the two new Brexit deadlines are not a rolling Brexit cliff edge. But it sure doesnt look like a nice, calm hill to stroll down either. Whether politicians like it or not, the reality is the absolutely firm March 29 deadline has for good reason now morphed into an April 12 and May 22 flexible friend. Does May want a no deal? The sneaking suspicion among EU leaders in Brussels this week was that Ms May is increasingly opening herself up to a no deal after she refused to rule it out in a behind-closed-doors meeting. Ms Mays first option remains a deal. But is she or Brexiteers now running the show? MEP elections The MEP officials reaction to the delay news in one word: Groans. The reason is simple. Britain must decide if it is running candidates by April 12. Leave, and Britains seats are filled elsewhere. But remain or at least daydream of wheat fields on the fence a little longer and either the MEP plans are torn up or Britain will be told to stay in for far longer than planned. Northern Ireland As German chancellor Angela Merkel pointed out in a private discussion on Thursday night, the EUhas to find a way to avoid a no deal hard Irish border. And quickly. With just three weeks until the next Brexit deadline, a solution must be found. If it isnt, Irelands worst nightmare may come true. Is the EU still united? The obvious answer is yes. For now, there is no reason to doubt this long-term fact. However, the confusion over the delay dates on Thursday night didnt reflect this. With the pressure mounting there is nothing to ignore. Gone are the days in American presidential races when a candidate would rise or fall on policy differences. Today, Democrats choosing their candidate for the 2020 race are asking just one question does the person have what it takes to stay the course and defeat Republican Donald Trump? First, the candidates will have to fight it out among themselves in debates this year, and in party primary voting contests next year, during which they could inflict serious damage on each other and dangerously weaken their candidacy in the general election. So far, 13 have formally declared their candidacy, and at least seven others are also likely to decide to run. Here is a profile of the announced candidates and what their chances of success look like at this stage of the battle. BETO OROURKE (46) Robert Francis ORourke Beto is a common Spanish nickname for Robert is the son of Melissa Martha Williams and Judge Pat Francis ORourke, whose forebears emigrated to Texas from Ireland in the 19th century to help build a railroad in the state. The former three-term congressman actively engages on Irish issues such as protecting the Good Friday Agreement and promoting trade between Ireland and the US. His platform tends to focus on the big picture, with sweeping calls for unity, reducing inequality, and healing racial divisions but so far is short on specifics. That flexibility, especially on universal healthcare, may not overly endear him to progressives but it could draw support from independents and even some moderate Republicans and dent Trumps strategy of painting Democratic contenders as crazy Socialists. CHANCES: If ORourke were to become the Democratic contender, he could win his native Texas in a battle against Trump, giving the party a huge advantage. Young, energetic, with little baggage, he can appeal to the Democratic partys middle ground and progressives alike. His political prowess is matched only by his fundraising skills, without which a successful bid is almost impossible. He raised $6.1m (5.4m) in the first 24 hours after launching his presidential campaign on March 14, crushing the first-day hauls of many of his Democratic competitors. He could be the partys strongest candidate, and is said to be the candidate Trump most fears. KAMALA HARRIS (54) Credit: EPA/CJ GUNTHER Kamala Devi Harris of California is the daughter of an Indian mother and a Jamaican father, and was the first US senator of Jamaican or Indian ancestry. She became a senator for California in 2016. Before that she had been Californias attorney general. Since becoming a senator, Harris has supported universal healthcare, immigration reform, lowering taxes for the working and middle classes while raising taxes on corporations and the wealthiest top 1% of Americans. CHANCES: Harris is seen as a pragmatic progressive with a tough political skin and sharp skills as a former San Francisco prosecutor. Her compelling personal story as the daughter of immigrants could also serve as a useful contrast to Trumps anti-immigrant rhetoric in a match-up against him and draw crucial support from Latinos and African-Americans. In a CNN/Des Moines Register poll on March 10, almost half of Democrats surveyed said her political views are about right and 12% said shes too liberal. Nearly 58 % had a favourable opinion of the senator. Hers will be a sharp and disciplined campaign. BERNIE SANDERS (77) Credit: EPA/TANNEN MAURY Bernie Sanders of Vermont, the longest serving Independent senator in the US Congress, who usually votes with the Democratic party on legislation, enters the race with the strong advantage of national name recognition and a strong progressive record that won him wide appeal when he ran unsuccessfully against Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination in 2016. Sanders wants universal healthcare and higher taxes for the wealthy. He would like to make public collages tuition-free, which he has proposed paying for by taxing financial transactions. He also wants to increase social security benefits for retirees by subjecting all incomes above $250,000 (220,000) to the 6.2% payroll tax. CHANCES: The fact that Sanders is not a member of the Democratic Party, and instead describes himself as a democratic socialist, is a boon for Trump in his bid to cast all the candidates as too socialist for America. He has a very high favourability rating among Iowa voters 71% see him in a positive light, and he is the first choice for 25% of likely voters. His views are seen as too liberal (44%) or about right (48%). But, against that, voters may be wary of a replay of the 2016 Democratic primaries, and may be drawn instead to the newer generation of progressive candidates in the Sanders mould. In that case, Sanders could end up being a victim of his own success. ELIZABETH WARREN (69) Credit: AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File Elizabeth Warren, like Bernie Sanders, could be described as a liberal populist but one who is also tough and pragmatic. She was elected to the US Senate for Massachusetts in 2012, capturing the seat held by the late senator Ted Kennedy. She is a leading progressive in the party and backs healthcare for all. The former Harvard law professor has a long track record of opposing lobbyists and billionaires and has pledged to restore the US to a place where people can succeed if they work hard and play by the rules by holding billionaires and big corporations accountable. Warren wants to introduce a wealth tax of 2% on net worth over $50m (44m), and 3% over $1bn (880m) designed to raise $2.75trn (2.42trn) over a decade, all of which would help fund her policies. CHANCES: Shes tough and can be a rousing speaker on the campaign trail. She has a detailed grasp of policy issues and a sharp academic mind but some question whether she can sufficiently connect with voters personally. Warrens favourability rating in the Iowa poll took a hit among moderate Democrats. Sanders and Warren have similar favourable ratings among liberals (76% and 74% respectively), but among moderates Sanders gets 68% favourability, while Warren drops to 54% so the battle between them could be especially fiery. CORY BOOKER (49) Credit: EPA/CJ GUNTHER Cory Booker has represented New Jersey in the US senate since 2013. He emerged into the national spotlight as a crusading reformer taking on the established black power structure in Newark, New Jersey, in the early 2000s. The African-American senator launched his presidential campaign with an appeal to Americas common purpose and a focus on social and racial equality. Booker is considered a social liberal who supports womens rights and same-sex marriage. He is a Rhodes Scholar and Yale Law graduate who was adept at promoting himself through the his early use of social media and focusing on an optimistic vision of America. CHANCES: He connects well with voters, who like his charismatic speaking style. He will appeal to voters looking for an optimistic message, but may be seen as too liberal to appeal to rural voters who want to focus more on jobs and economic wellbeing. Booker was once one of the top recipients of campaign donations from Wall Street, but has since rejected donations from political action committees. He is likely to run a dynamic campaign, though it could be more about style than substance. KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND (52) Credit: EPA/SHAWN THEW Kirsten Gillibrand, a former corporate lawyer, was elected a senator for New York in 2009, succeeding Hillary Clinton who had vacated the seat in her first presidential bid. Gillibrand has Irish links on her mothers side, so perhaps it was no accident that she declared her presidential run on St Patricks Day. I am going to run for president of the United States because as a young mom, I am going to fight for kids as hard as I would fight for my own, she declared. It is why I believe healthcare should be a right not a privilege. It is why I believe we should have better public schools for our kids, and I believe that anybody who wants to work hard enough should be able to get whatever job training they need to earn their way to the middle class. She became known as the #MeToo senator after leading the push for fellow Democratic senator Al Franken to resign after sexual misconduct allegations. CHANCES: Gillibrand was among the least liberal members of her party when she was in the House of Representatives, but in the Senate she leaned more to the left and was voted the seventh most liberal member of the 46-person Democratic group in the last Congress. She is likely to appeal to the more establishment wing of the party. Progressive voters are wary of her defence of the tobacco industry and her perceived anti-immigrant platform a decade ago. She will have her work cut out to bridge the gap during her campaign. AMY KLOBUCHAR (58) Credit: EPA/ERIK S. LESSER Amy Klobuchar, another former corporate lawyer, was the first woman elected to the US senate in Minnesota in 2007. She has established a reputation as a matter-of-fact centrist, tackling issues like healthcare and soaring drug pricing. She wants to introduce new measures to make it easier for small and mid-sized US businesses to export goods worldwide. As she announced her entry into the Democratic race on a snow-covered stage in Minneapolis along the banks of the Mississippi, on February 10, she declared that on her first day in the White House the US would rejoin the Paris climate agreement. CHANCES: Because she is seen as not too far to the left nor too far to the right, she will have strong appeal to crucial Midwestern voters, whom Democrats desperately need to win back in the 2020 race. In the 2016 race, Hillary Clinton only won the previously strong Democratic state by 44,000 votes. Klobuchar has tempered voters expectations about proposals such as healthcare for all and tuition-free public colleges, saying: If I was a magic genie, and could give that for everyone, and we could afford it, I would. TULSI GABBARD (37) Credit: Alex Wroblewski/Getty Images Tulsi Gabbard has represented Hawaii in the House of Representatives since 2013 and is the first Hindu member of congress. Before being elected to Congress, Gabbard served in a field medical unit of the Hawaii Army National Guard in a combat zone in Iraq from 2004 to 2005 and was deployed to Kuwait from 2008 to 2009. She was critical of US intervention in Iraq, Libya, and Syria and has also denounced US involvement in the Yemeni civil war. When she declared her entry into the race in February she said she saw the 2020 election as a fight for the soul of America. She wants to cut taxes on small businesses and farmers, raise them on corporations, and lower military spending. CHANCES: Gabbard initially excited the left because she was an outspoken economic progressive and an army veteran who objected to American intervention abroad. But in the following years, she staked out foreign policy positions that dismayed her supporters. She joined Republicans in demanding that Barack Obama use the term radical Islam. She was the member of Congress most willing to advocate for Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, saying it was part of an effort to try to find a peaceful solution. She may win the votes of some progressive Democrats who want to reduce military spending but she may be seen as too controversial to win broad appeal. JULIAN CASTRO (44) Credit: EPA/ETIENNE LAURENT Julian Castro has never served in the US Congress. He was mayor of his native San Antonio, Texas from 2009 until he joined president Barack Obamas cabinet as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from 2014 to 2017. He supports healthcare for all and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants as part of comprehensive immigration reform. But he hasnt released many details of his platform, although hes been a strong advocate of free trade. CHANCES: In early polls, Castro finishes near the bottom of the pack, though he will likely do well with Latino voters. But he has yet to establish a strong donor network or social media following that would help give him more name recognition on the national stage to boost his chances. JOHN HICKENLOOPER (67) John Hickenlooper, who reinvented himself by starting a brewery after being laid off, has been governor of Colorado since 2011. He is another long-shot candidate. He has been a strong advocate for ending homelessness in America and has set up a number of programmes in his state to help provide housing. He also favours strong gun-control measures. In the wake of the 2012 Aurora theatre shooting that left 12 dead and dozens injured, Hickenloopers state government passed background checks for those purchasing guns. CHANCES: Colorado is currently the number-one economy in the US, and Hickenlooper markets himself as a centrist who can bring opposing interests to the table. He touts himself as the right person to take on Donald Trump but not enough Democratic voters are likely to agree. JOHN DELANEY (55) I had a great discussion about where the Democratic party is headed and my campaign strategy with @mitchellreports yesterday. Check out the full interview here: https://t.co/WukL3uSukZ John Delaney (@JohnDelaney) March 19, 2019 John Delaney, a former congressman from Maryland, has been running for the Democratic nomination since July 2107, but few Democrats know much about him. His central message is one of national unity and he believes he can work with Republicans to get things done. He is a wealthy entrepreneur, worth about $100m (88m), having launched two companies that trade on the New York Stock Exchange. Hardly surprising then that likes to declare his belief in capitalism. The primary is going to be a choice between socialism and a more just form of capitalism, he told Rolling Stone this month. I believe in capitalism, the free markets and the private economy. Just as well, since hes essentially funding his race himself. Delaney opposed President Trumps decision to withdraw the United States from the Iran nuclear deal, tweeting THIS is why Putin helped Trump campaign he knew Trump is untrustworthy & would back out of our global engagements (TPP, Paris, Iran) & diminish our leadership in the world. Pulling back from our global leadership position is bad for our economy & nat sec [national security]. CHANCES: In 2017, Fortune magazine named him in its list of the worlds 50 greatest leaders. Centrist Democrats like his pitch to improve workers rights, education, and infrastructure but hes likely to have insufficient broader appeal. JAY INSLEE (68) Hey, @Trevornoah, how do I get one of these signs for my office? pic.twitter.com/xKMGGAbQyi Jay Inslee (@JayInslee) March 19, 2019 Jay Inslee is the governor of Washington state, and a former multiple-term US congressman. He was an outspoken critic of president George W Bushs invasion of Iraq in 2003. His major issue is protecting the environment and combating climate change: We have exactly one chance left to defeat climate change and thats during the next administration. He says stopping climate change can boost economic growth, and create millions of new jobs as the US transitions to 100% clean energy and net-zero greenhouse gas pollution. He proposes removing subsidies and tax breaks for the fossil fuel industry. CHANCES: His long history of battling climate change will work in his favour with progressive voters who support the Green New Deal, a set of proposed economic stimulus programmes to address climate change and economic inequality. ANDREW YANG (44) This may be most innovative presidential campaign idea ever: Democratic candidate @AndrewYang may create a 3D lifelike hologram of himself to appear at campaign events here in Iowa, elsewhere, allow people to see him speak (while not actually here). Could be 100 places at once pic.twitter.com/DyOfmKJ1CI Douglas W. Burns (@douglaswburns) March 21, 2019 Andrew Yang, the son of Taiwanese immigrants, entered the presidential race in November 2018, and that was essentially his first foray into the political world. He is a businessman who founded Venture for America, which seeks to revitalise struggling urban centres by training and fostering entrepreneurs in cities such as Detroit and New Orleans. He is really running on just one issue he wants everyone to have a universal basic income to counteract the worst effects of automation in the workforce. CHANCES: High marks for ideas but hell probably end up keeping the day job. Fine Gael has gathered this weekend in Wexford for its second national conference in less than six months. Yet again, the national airwaves will be given over to listen to the offerings of Taoiseach Leo Varadkar tonight. But, unlike last time when he addressed the nation, Varadkars appeal is on the slide as is his partys. A dodgy budget plus a succession of scandals and mishandlings, typified by the National Childrens Hospital, has seen the halo of prudence and competence badly dented. Varadkar, himself, has acknowledged that things have begun to unravel. An Irish Times Ipsos/MRBI poll earlier this month showed Varadkar had suffered another slump in his personal approval rating. Varadkars satisfaction rating fell by eight points from 51% last October to 43%. While he remains the most popular of the party leaders, the polls number was the lowest satisfaction rating he has achieved since becoming leader. It represents the third consecutive fall as measured by polls since the beginning of last year when his satisfaction rating was 60%. The disappointment was compounded by a three-point drop in support for Fine Gael since October, with the party registering the support of 30% of voters who expressed a preference and are likely to vote. Support for Fine Gael fell sharply among farmers and the most financially well-off voters, the figures showed. Asked for his response to the polls findings, Varadkar was typically honest: I never read too much into any one poll but I am not going to pretend that I ignore them. I tend to take them in threes or fours. And what is evident is that over the course of the past six months, support for my party, Fine Gael, which I suppose had been mid- 30s is now low 30s. There may be lots of reasons for that. How do you deal with it? How do you improve that? You concentrate on the issues people care about: Brexit, the economy, jobs, putting money in peoples pockets, making progress in healthcare and housing. That is how I am going to respond. Varadkar, the quintessential metrosexual, PR-obsessed Taoiseach, is not cutting the mustard with his own rural base, and he knows it. But just why is it beginning to go wrong for the Government party? Well, Varadkar has his view: I cant know that for sure. There may be lots of different reasons. One thing we have definitely seen from the middle of July last year is a real fall-off in consumer confidence. Consumer confidence in Ireland is now back to where it was in 2012. Bear in mind 2012 was in the teeth of austerity and right after the financial crisis and that is happening despite the fact that there is almost full employment, rising incomes and rising living standards. Perhaps some of that is related to Brexit, concerns around Brexit. Perhaps it is related to other matters too There are definite issues around the cost of living, of course, issues around rents and so on. We need to analyse that. What I am absolutely convinced of as a government, involving Fine Gael and Independents, and as a party, the best way to recover your poll ratings is the concentrate on the peoples business, doing the stuff they want you do. Getting Brexit right, keeping the economy and jobs safe, improving living standards, making progress in health care and housing and that is entirely my focus and that of government. But in truth, despite Fianna Fail being trapped by confidence and supply, and Sinn Fein doing its continued best to shoot itself in the foot, Fine Gael has not been able to capitalise. In fact, it has gone in reverse. Varadkar, Donohoe, Murphy et al represent a particular wing of Fine Gael. One that quite frankly doesnt sit well with their more rural colleagues. To some, they come across as smug, arrogant and high-handed and appointing Simon Coveney as Tanaiste and deputy leader has done little to reconnect with the base. Speaking of Coveney, it must be remembered that the grassroot members by a margin of two to one decided to plump for him ahead of Varadkar in 2016 when asked whom did they want to be leader. Under Varadkar, Fine Gael has seen a major drop in support among its traditional farming base, a national opinion poll for the Irish Examiner revealed last September. The Behaviour and Attitudes poll showed that support for the main Government party slumped by eight points in a year. Fine Gael recorded its lowest level of support among farmers in five years and now stands at 32% a notable decrease on the previous year when the party stood at 40%. Farmers who have been a reliable support base for Fine Gael are not only abandoning the party but increasing numbers are now undecided about who they would vote for in a general election while others are unlikely to vote at all, my colleague Elaine Loughlin concluded. Upon taking office, the Taoiseach did revitalise his Cabinet, replacing the likes of Enda Kenny and Michael Noonan with young blood but with a decidedly Dublin-centric feel. In came Eoghan Murphy and later Josepha Madigan, who alongside Varadkar, Paschal Donohoe, Richard Bruton, Regina Doherty, and Simon Harris, are all from the greater Dublin area. The anti-rural imbalance perception has strengthened. The appointment of Michael Ring and the creation of the Department of Rural Affairs without a realistic budget or power has smacked of tokenism appeasement to the culchies. But it is not working. It is that imbalance which ultimately hurting Fine Gael among its traditional heartlands. In the 2016 general election, Fine Gael dropped from 76 seats to just 50. Those losses in constituency after constituency occurred from Donegal to West Cork, and on the current poll numbers, little of those 26 seats are coming back. The simple truth of the slide in popularity for Fine Gael is largely because of self-inflicted harm. Six months ago, Varadkar was itching to cut and run to the country to capitalise on poll ratings of 34%-plus. He was under significant pressure from within his own Cabinet to do so. Maybe some knew the childrens hospital scandal would break; others may have thought such high ratings would not last. Either way, on Varadkars watch, Fine Gael has lost ground. With just eight weeks to the local and European elections, the gathering in Wexford this weekend is an excuse to show off some of the candidates. If Varadkar wants to claw back some of that lost ground, he needs things to start going his way. Dateline How Will Myanmars Ethnicities Shape Its Future? This week, The Irrawaddy discusses the latest effort to amend the Constitution in the context of ethnic groups political and security goals. Ye Ni: Welcome to Dateline Irrawaddy! This week, well discuss the role of ethnicities in building a federal Union, internal peace and amending the Constitution. Joint Secretary 2 Sai Kyaw Nyunt of the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD) and technical adviser Salai Issac Khin of the Gender and Development Institute join me to discuss this. Im Irrawaddy Burmese editor Ye Nei. Shan State is important for Myanmar in establishing federalism because various ethnicities such as the Shan, Palaung, Wa, Kachin and Lisu reside in the state, and there are areas administered by ethnic armed groups, the Tatmadaw [Myanmars military] and the government, as well as areas contested by ethnic armed groups. And I recently heard that the SNLD has shifted its focus away from the Shan ethnic group to all of Shan State in its policies. How will the SNLDs new policies approach Chin State? Sai Kyaw Nyunt: It was not that our party was intended only for the Shan ethnic group. Its name is Shan Nationalities, which means all the nationalities in Shan State. Non-Shan ethnic individuals have held senior positions in the SNLD. Our party only appeared to be working for the Shan ethnic group after the recent mushrooming of ethnicity-based parties in [the trend toward] what we call identity politics. But then we had planned to shift our focus to a state-based approach. Though we could have established a separate country under the Atlantic Charter, we decided to join [Myanmar proper] as a federated Shan State. So, the state-based approach is our original policy. We acknowledge the need to re-establish [the notion of] a federated Shan State in which many ethnic groups such as the Pa-O, Palaung, Lisu and Akha reside, so that ethnic parties or armed groups can take steps forward to peace. We also recognize the need to take a policy-based approach. We need a policy to determine how to link ourselves and collaborate with the rest of the Union. So, we believe we have to take a state-based and policy-based approach to be able to cooperate with all the other non-Shan ethnic groups. YN: What is interesting to me is how negotiations can be used to build a federal Union amid the rise of identity politics. Speaking of Chin State, it is situated in a remote area close to the Indian border. I believe that ethnic Chin people love the country of Myanmar as much as Burmans do, because Chin people played an important part in the independence struggle. My question is how can Chin people strike a balance between identity politics and their love for their country? Salai Issac Khin: Speaking of Chin State, we need to go back to the time around 1947, 1948. What is known as Chin State today was called Chin Special Division after independence. The division was formed according to three agreements, firstly the Panglong Agreement. Falam, Hakha and Tedim signed the Panglong Agreement. And the areas known today as Mindat and Kanpetletirr were incorporated in 1947 under the Chin-Bamar friendship agreement in cooperation with the Anti-Fascist Peoples Freedom League (AFPFL) to gain independence together, and Paletwa was incorporated under the decision reached by the Frontier Areas Committee of Enquiry. So, the area known today as Chin State is not just based on the Panglong Agreement, but on all three of those. Though we cant call ourselves a federated Chin State, Chin Special Division was founded according to the 1947 Constitution. What we then called Chin Hills, we call Chin State today; it stretched into Mizoram. However, Chin people decided to join, and those areas became Chin Special Division. Speaking of federalism, we need to go back to the 1947 agreement. We wanted to see development and improved road infrastructure, but through self-administration. Historically, we practiced self-administration though we were a poor area. When we decided to gain independence together with the Bamar government, our expectation was development. To establish federalism, there are two preconditions for us. We Chin people want an appropriate status according to the Panglong Agreement. This is to be negotiated between the Chin people in Chin State. Another issue concerns Chin people who live outside Chin State; for example, there are Chin populations in Rakhine State, Magwe and Sagaing regions. There should be extra-territorial obligations. Wed like to ensure a situation in which issues related to Chin people are not directly handled by local governments of the areas they are living in, but rather that the Chin State government has a greater say in handling them. When the country becomes a federal Union sometime in the future, we envision a Chin State government that doesnt just have authority within the territory of Chin State, but has authority and a say [regarding] the Chin people living outside Chin State within the territory of the Union. YN: Ethnic issues that have existed since Myanmar gained independence have yet to be settled. Ethnic parties and armed groups have consistently demanded federalism, saying it is the only answer to ethnic issues. Recently, the idea of confederation was presented. Shan State has an important part to play, as the United Wa State Army, which is based in Shan State, demanded confederation, and its ethnic allies also appeared to support it. Saya Sai Kyaw Nyunt, what is your view on confederation and federation? How can these two be adjusted? SKN: Shan State is a complicated, highly diverse area. We cant neglect the history in assessing these. The federated Shan State was founded in 1922. The Shan State Act was adopted in 1888 after the British occupied [Burma]. According to that act, Shan State included parts of Kachin State and Sagaing, which was previously called Upper Chindwin. And federated Shan State was founded in 1922, excluding Wa State. Wa State was part of Shan State under the 1888 Act, according to hard copies of documents. Though it is said that Wa State is inside Shan State, or inside this country, we dont have jurisdiction over it. There are no government offices there, and Myanmar currency is not used there. They already have a status without demanding it. They are just stressing it to legitimize their status. They want a legitimate status. Taking a look at the structure of the country, there were four coloniesBurma proper, federated Shan State, and Kachin and Chin. Despite its independent status, circumstances forced the Karenni to join [in gaining independence together]. So, from the very beginning, we decided to gain independence together and not separately, which was somewhat of a confederation. The constitution drafted by General Aung San and submitted to the preliminary conference of the AFPFL can be seen as federal, but when it was adopted in 1947, it was not federal at all. It was a unitary state disguised as federal. In the beginning, it was somewhat of a confederation, but when the constitution was adopted, it was not federal. It was not federal from the very beginning. My view is that the problems will be solved only when genuine federalism is established. Current leaders views on federalism are different from those of previous leaders. According to the perceptions of the previous leaders, the stronger give guarantees to the weaker. The right to separation was granted if the weaker felt that they were suppressed and they no longer wanted to live with the stronger. But the political perceptions of todays leaders are different. They do not view things from the perspectives of political magnanimity and political guarantees. As they take an authoritative approach; [some ethnic groups] doubt if they really want federalism. Some ethnicities and groups will look at other ways out when they feel they are bound to be suppressed in the current system. As a result, the attention has shifted to confederation. Thke Wa and Rakhine [Arakan Army] have talked about their desires for confederation. Perhaps, more groups will consider it. If we want to be a united single entity, genuine federalism must be implemented. YN: I think self-determination and equality are major factors at play. Ethnicities have consistently demanded federalism. Saya Issac Khin, the National League for Democracy (NLD) has taken steps to amend the 2008 Constitution. A committee has been formed to draft amendments to the Constitution. The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) has proposed amending Article 261 of the Constitution, saying it is essential for the transformation to federalism. And the Myanmar Army has also supported amending it. Do ethnicities think amending Article 261 will pave the way for establishing federalism? SIK: They say the country will be federal by amending Article 261. But I dont think so. In my opinion, this is another challenge. What we want to amend is the essence of the 2008 Constitution. Just amending it to allow local legislatures to elect their own chief ministers, and not amending the essence, will create further vulnerability. I dont mean I dont like the idea of amending Article 261. I do, but I have concerns. This is because the NLD, not the USDP, was the first party to propose amending Article 261. NLD lawmaker Daw Khin San Hlaing submitted in November 2014 the proposal to amend the article. That time, both the military and the USDP raised objections to it. And this time, that article is already on the NLDs list for charter amendment. The USDP has proposed amending Article 261 alone. But the article cant be amended alone. There are related matters in Article 264. Amending Article 261 will allow local legislatures to elect their own chief ministers. And Article 264 grants the President the authority to dismiss them. So if we are to amend Article 261, we also need to think about Article 264. But what non-Bamar ethnicities want is not separate amendments, but to amend the essence, for example [to support] civilian supremacy, or to put the military under civilian control. This is not an ethnic issue, but a problem of Myanmar. Looking at the reasons why the military has staged frequent coups, we find that ethnic issues are the main reason. Unless and until the essence of the Constitution is amended to ensure political and security guarantees for all ethnicities including the Bamar, amending provisions like Article 261 wont work. Another thing that is risky is, suppose Article 261 is amended and the chief minister is elected for Chin State by the party that won the majority there. But then, another party may win at the Union level. So, we are very worried about the relations between the two. We dont know whether or not the Union-level party will treat the state-level party as equals, listen to its opinions and support its plans. Amending Article 261 alone cant provide sufficient political guarantees. What we want is a broader guarantee that goes beyond Article 261. Personality is not important, but policy is. What we want is a change in policy, not in the persons in power. But I dont mean to say that I dont want Article 261 being amendedI support amending it. But only when more important things are changed will amending Article 261 be meaningful. YN: Saya Sai Kyaw Nyunt, what else would you like to say regarding Article 261? SKN: Most of the points have been covered by Ko Salai Issac Khin. But as 25 percent of seats in local parliaments are reserved for military lawmakers, the amending of Article 261 will make things worse. This will grant executive power to the military at the regional level in addition to the Union level. We can accept amending Article 261 if that 25 percent [guarantee for the military] is removed from the parliament. Another way to avoid this is to directly elect chief ministers in polls by local people. If that were the case, we would happily accept amending the article. YN: Thank you for your contributions! I want to see an investment in walkability and Ive been active as a member of Well Batavia, which removes barriers to active living, and we want people to be able to walk around or bike to whatever they need to go, Beck said. With the Environmental Commission, we want to make some changes to the city code and bake in more practices with things like plug-ins for cars, green infrastructure policies and make stormwater waste more ecological. On This Day The Day a Literary and Anti-Colonial Nationalist Giant Was Born Thakhin Kodaw Hmaing Today would have been the 143rd birthday of Thakhin Kodaw Hmaing, archenemy of the British colonial government, father of nationalist movements, one of Myanmars poet laureates and the winner of the Stalin Peace Prize. It is also the 43rd anniversary of a student protest against the Burma Socialist Programme Party (BSPP) held to mark the centenary of his birth. Maung Lun, later known as Thakhin Kodaw Hmaing, was born on March 23, 1876 in Wale village in Bago Regions Shwedaung Township. In 1894 he moved to Rangoon, where he began his career as a playwright. In 1941, his reputation as an anti-colonial nationalist and prominent figure in Doh Bamar Asiayon (the We Burmans Association) earned him a place on the British authorities Burma List, making him an enemy of the state. On March 23, 1976, the 100th anniversary of Thakhin Kodaw Hmaings birth, students attended a commemorative service at Kodaw Hmaings mausoleum in front of Shwedagon Pagoda. They later occupied the convocation hall of Rangoon University and staged a sit-in protest against the BSPP government. The following day, the government announced the indefinite closure of universities and colleges, and the military raided the convocation hall and arrested the students. The demonstration spread to other cities. More than 200 students were arrested and either expelled from their universities or given long prison sentences. Second Annual TEDxIWU Event, "Becoming Human," Set for March 23 Teresa Banks '13 spoke at TEDxIWU in 2018. BLOOMINGTON Illinois Wesleyan University will host the second annual TEDxIWU event on its campus March 23, 2019 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Designed to highlight the innovative spirit of the campus and Bloomington-Normal community, the event will bring together IWU students, faculty, staff, alumni and local community members to share their best ideas. Interested attendees must apply to participate in the limited-space TEDxIWU event. Reservations are available at www.tedxiwu.com. This event is free and open to the public. Innovators scheduled to appear at TEDxIWU include: Nicole Jovicevic 15, Why do I want to die? The transformative process of owning your truth Dr. Wendy Kooken, Right in front of our eyes: Seeing people who are homeless Cindi Perrine 88, How stories can make us human Isaac Simmons 20, Bridging thought: My idea to yours Hailey Thomas, Local Superheroes Needed: Beat distraction, complete your mission Niyant Vora 19, You're crazy! How language affects our understanding of mental illnesses Amanda Wesche 20, Excellent mistakes: Failure doesnt need to be a learning moment Bevin Choban '10, Action Research Center Coordinator, is organizing the event along with a team of campus leaders. ARC spearheads campus-community innovation, so TEDx grew from ongoing courses and projects. We enjoyed a warm reception from the Bloomington-Normal community for our inaugural event last year. Its exciting to continue this tradition of ideas and dialogue on campus, said Choban. Attendees will also be invited to contribute to an interactive art display before, during and after the event. To reserve your free ticket and to learn more about this event, visit the TEDxIWU website, www.tedxiwu.com. You can also find TEDxIWU on Facebook. About TED TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading, usually in the form of short, powerful talks (18 minutes or fewer) delivered by today's leading thinkers and doers. Many of these talks are given at TED's annual conference in Vancouver, British Columbia, and made available, free, on TED.com. TED speakers have included Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert, Sir Richard Branson, Monica Lewinsky, Philippe Starck, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Sal Khan and Daniel Kahneman. TED's open and free initiatives for spreading ideas include TED.com, where new TED Talk videos are posted daily; the Open Translation Project, which provides subtitles and interactive transcripts as well as translations from thousands of volunteers worldwide; the educational initiative TED-Ed; the annual million-dollar TED Prize, which funds exceptional individuals with a "wish," or idea, to create change in the world; TEDx, which provides licenses to thousands of individuals and groups who host local, self-organized TED-style events around the world; and the TED Fellows program, which selects innovators from around the globe to amplify the impact of their remarkable projects and activities. About TEDx In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x=independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. ### *This independent TEDx event is operated under license from TED. Illinois has the tightest regulations for medicinal marijuana and is held up as a model for other states. We are going to approach the legalization of recreational marijuana in the same careful way, Holmes said. Based in Austin Texas, Mio is working on making teams, Webex Teams, Slack and Microsoft Teams interoperable explained Tom Hadfield, CEO, in an in-person interview. Tom said, Typically, a midsize enterprise has all three. Perhaps they cant afford to use Slack for everyone. He continued, Mio allows real-time communications between them. The company has raised $12 million and is the early stage of building out their solution. The days of one single collaboration vendor are over, exclaimed Tom. Continuing, he said, Now with modern APIs, you can fully federate all collaboration systems into one unified system. He explained their business model is charging $1-$3 per user per month and you can buy the solution from the various app stores. He said, Our two main features are DMs between users as well as channels which are like group chats. An example he presented was a budget planning channel on MS Teams which can be made available to users on other platforms to participate in. We have this belief that real-time messaging is the primary way employees communicate with one another, he exclaimed. Continuing, he said, When you realize a colleague is unreachable, it doesnt make any sense. He went on and said, The API-ization of the world means these platforms have mature APIs and someone needs to stitch them together. Thats what were doing. There are lots of ways to stretch your meals and use up every bit of the food you buy and prepare. From piling roasted vegetables into an omelet to using leftover potato chips as a breading for chicken, here are some smart moves when it comes to using up your leftovers. OShea said he could always count on Gainers home as a place to go when he was in high school just to hang out and watch TV and the Gainers never minded because they knew then the kids were safe. The leader of an armed group in the Central African Republic offered a cabinet post in a new government on Saturday said he had turned the it down. Abdoulaye Miskine, who heads the Central African Peoples Democratic Front (FDPC), said after being offered a post as minister for modernisation he does not intend to participate personally in the government in which leading positions remain unchanged. Miskine is a former ally of the Seleka rebels, an armed coalition of Islamist groups who seized power in the CAR capital Bangui between March and December 2013. The new government, appointed by presidential decree on Friday, had offered four posts to armed groups that signed last months peace deal under whose provisions President Faustin-Archange Touadera agreed to form an inclusive government. The deal soon came under strain as five militia groups either pulled out of the new government or rejected its makeup. The FDPC believes the government is not representative enough, becoming the first group in early March to withdraw support for the peace accord drawn up in an eighth attempt to bring peace to the conflict-wracked, impoverished state since 2012. None has managed to bring stability despite the arrival in 2014 of an 12,000-strong UN peacekeeping force after former colonial ruler France intervened militarily under a UN mandate, pushing the Seleka from power. The African Union has been working to bring the different sides closer together but on Tuesday, 11 of the 14 armed groups demanded Prime Minister Firmin Ngrebada step down, calling for a government of national unity and direct talks with Touadera. In a statement datelined Brazzaville, the FDPC said it had never demanded a cabinet post for its president and urged the government not to make such decisions on its behalf. The resource-rich country has been racked since 2013 by a war which has displaced around a quarter of its 4.5 million population. The peace deal the eighth since 2012 in the conflict-wracked, impoverished state brought together the CAR government and 14 armed groups who control most of the country. In addition to an inclusive government, the agreement called for a series of confidence-building measures, such as establishing joint patrols and the creation of a truth and justice commission within 90 days. CAR has been struggling to recover from the bloodletting that erupted when former president Francois Bozize, a Christian, was overthrown in 2013 by the Seleka rebels. Armed groups, typically claiming to defend an ethnic or religious group, control about 80 percent of the CAR, often fighting over access to the countrys mineral wealth. Students from several grades at Kenwood Academy High School in Chicago Thursday gathered in a class to learn Chinese art and culture. They focused intensely on the hands-on activity of carving images on eggshells. Shan Mengbo, who is 70 years old and an award-winning artist from China's Shandong province, was the teacher. The artist specializes in carving, and the raw materials he uses a range of materials from eggshell and pencils to porcelain plates. "This is so challenging and interesting," said Azaria, a 7th grader. Azaria told Xinhua that she had been learning Chinese for seven years and had done paper-cutting and other activities before, but "had never done anything like this," referring to eggshell carving. "This is so different ... we normally just learn Chinese in class, this is about culture," said Kroi, who is also in the 7th grade. Kroi said he is very interested in China and Chinese culture and wants to visit the country some day. Eggshell carving isn't easy. One student crushed his eggshell. He received a replacement and was told to proceed with more care. Shan demonstrated some raw materials used in his artwork, including empty cans, fallen leaves, discarded pencils and eggshells. "We can use daily waste to make art," said Shan. Shan showed students artwork made of waste can foil, and passed porcelain plate carvings, with portrait images from Confucius, Mona Lisa, Bill Gates, to Hemingway, all figures students could easily identify. The program was organized by the Beijing Language and Culture University Press. Shan, as well as Chen Heling, a language professor from Shandong University, were invited to Chicago for the program. They visited 20 schools and held 40 workshops over a 10-day period. Chen carried out conversations with the students in Chinese, conveying the cultural background and stories behind Shan's artwork. "Mr. Shan is good at relating to students," said Chen. "Our approach is to let students learn from experiencing culture and language together." Chen said eggshell carving has a long history in China. "By showcasing carvings of Chinese images as well as Western iconic figures, it strikes a cord with students when they can recognize and relate to what they see," she said. "It's my first time to the United States," Shan said. "I'm very glad to see so many students are interested in Chinese culture and artwork." "It's a great experience for our students to interact with an artist from China in our classrooms," said Jennifer Chang, the Chinese language teacher at Kenwood Academy. "Different from focusing on language only ... we are expanding language learning through culture and art," said Tony Yuan, chief operating officer of Beijing Language and Culture University Press branch in Chicago. Yuan said that they are in the process of releasing a series of books teaching Chinese with folk art and culture, and the first book on paper-cutting has already been released. Alonda, a 10th grader, moved her carving knife to chip off a thin layer of her eggshell. Shan bent over to show her how to move the eggshell instead of the carving tool to create the image she had drawn on the shell. "This year's program has gone extremely well," Jane Lu, director of the Confucius Institute in Chicago, told Xinhua. "Mr. Shan and Ms. Chen have met with approximately 2,000 (program) students. Their new approach of combining culture, art and language is well received by both teachers and students." A film co-directed by seven famous Chinese directors is slated for the National Day holiday in October to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. "My Motherland and I" features stories of ordinary Chinese happened during the past seven decades, particularly at some major historic turning points, according to Huang Jianxin, the film's producer. The directors include Chen Kaige, Zhang Yibai, Guan Hu and Xu Zheng, with Chen as the chief director. "The film will be the Chinese filmmakers' tribute to the New China," Chen said. "It not only records the footsteps of China on its way to becoming a major country, but also evokes the collective memory of all people with Chinese origin." Apple CEO Tim Cook stressed openness and cooperation during a speech at the annual China Development Forum (CDF) in Beijing on Saturday. "We see that [openness] as essential. Not only for China to reach its full potential, but for the global economy to thrive," said Cook. The tech-company leader said he is grateful for China's opening policy as it allows more companies to become a part of this market. In his speech, Cook expressed his concerns on the challenges facing humanity in this age. Cook said that climate change is threatening the ecology. Poverty and inequality are hindering the potential of citizens and countries, and millions of people still do not have access to basic health care. Cook also mentioned opportunities at the same time. He said there is a chance to continue to help millions of people out of poverty and give everyone the opportunity to learn. He emphasized the importance of investment in education, and vowed to increase investments in education and training. He quoted a line that Chinese President Xi Jinping said in Seattle years ago: The fire burns higher if more people bring wood to it," and expressed his understanding. "Working together, we can make tremendous progress, working together, there is no limit to what we are gonna achieve," Cook said in the end. Celebrating the very best thoroughbred racehorses in South America, the Gran Premio Latinoamericano is the most prestigious date on the continent's racing calendar. The race, also known at the Longines Latin American Grand Prix, was first run in Uruguay in 1981 and, much like the Breeders' Cup in the USA, is held at a different location every year. A constantly changing venue allows the race to stay fresh, with the distance and surface varying every year. The stunning Club Hipico de Santiago, Chile, played host to the latest edition of the spectacle, in a country steeped in racing history. The 150-year-old venue was designed in a European style and shares a striking resemblance to the iconic Longchamp Racecourse in Paris. When the thoroughbreds fly out of the stalls to the cry of an impassioned crowd, it's not just the $500,000 prize purse up for grabs, though. National pride is also a huge part of South America's richest horse race. Visit CNN.com/Sport for more news, features and videos READ: A day in the life of Paul Nicholls' racing yard READ: The sport combining skis, snow and thoroughbred racehorses National pride Entrants represent their countries in the Latinoamericano -- much like in the Olympic Games. This year's race featured participants from four visiting countries -- Peru, Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina -- who are all looking to challenge their Chilean hosts for the prize. Brazil is the most successful country in the race's 35-year history, with 10 winners, but the Chilean horses had a unique advantage at the Club Hipico de Santiago. "We run clockwise, all other race tracks in South America run counterclockwise. It's an advantage for certain, the times we host the Latino, we only have victories from Chilean horses," racecourse manager Oscar Vargas told CNN Winning Post. It's a pattern which once again repeated itself in 2019, with favorite Ya Primo winning Chile its ninth victory. It was winning trainer Guillermo Aguirre's first victory in the race, a feat which left him visibly emotional. "It's such a great feeling, to be up there with the other horses amongst such great talent. I lost my wife four months ago and I'm quite sure she's helping me from the sky," he told CNN's Winning Post. Watch the video at the top of the page to see CNN Winning Post's guide to the prestigious Gran Premio Latinoamericano. By TOM JAMES The Associated Press OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) A proposal to expand Washington state's existing sanctuary state rules is moving forward in the Legislature, potentially strengthening an existing wall of West Coast states with such policies. The bill, from Mercer Island Democratic Sen. Lisa Wellman, would limit the ability of police to inquire about immigration status in noncriminal situations. It would also require schools, courthouses and other government facilities to adopt rules minimizing the risk of being used as staging grounds for immigration stops, along with other protections The bill had a public hearing Friday in the House. It previously passed the Senate. At the hearing, Wellman said the measure would protect the state's workforce in the agriculture, hospitality and high-tech sectors. "We have 30 percent of Microsoft here on visas," Wellman said in an interview before the hearing. At the same time, she said, "You can't open a hotel if you don't have immigrants in back-of-house." The bill would also prohibit state and local police from passing immigration status information to federal authorities unless required by law. The protections would put Washington on par with and in some areas beyond Oregon and California, both of which have adopted their own sanctuary state policies. Oregon, which in 1987 was the first state to adopt a statewide sanctuary policy, has a straightforward restriction on police spending any resources including paid staff time going after people who are in the country illegally but haven't committed other crimes. California passed more robust protections in 2017, including yearly reporting requirements and a rule that authorities must get written consent from people they arrest before allowing them to be interviewed by immigration officers. Washington has had limited sanctuary protections since 2017, when Gov. Jay Inslee signed an executive order generally limiting state police from helping with immigration enforcement, requiring state agencies to provide services regardless of immigration status, and blocking state agencies from asking about immigration status. But Wellman's bill would expand on that by creating more specific limits on police, and applying them to local law enforcement as well as state officers. It would also require the state attorney general to set rules designed to minimize immigration stops at state facilities like courthouses. The bill would also block police or prison agencies from using interpreters borrowed from federal immigration authorities, require detainees to be notified of their right to decline to be interviewed by federal authorities, and prohibit the state Department of Corrections from holding people at the request of immigration authorities. Along with traditional immigration stops in public places, Wellman pointed to episodes including a short-lived January 2017 executive order by President Donald Trump barring immigrants from seven predominantly Muslim countries as creating uncertainty around immigration rules in the state. At Friday's hearing, representatives of the Washington Association of Police Chiefs and Sheriffs, a prominent advocacy group, said they were not opposed to the measure. Reached before the Friday hearing, Enumclaw Rep. Morgan Irwin, the ranking Republican member on the committee, said he hadn't had a chance to look closely at the bill but was concerned it could hinder other types of coordination between local law enforcement agencies and their federal counterparts. BROOKINGS, Ore. A temporary solution to the massive Hooskanaden slide has been up and running for more than a week now, with expansion into a two-lane road on the horizon. But local leaders are concerned about a more permanent solution one that could cost a considerable amount of money. We need a plan and funding for a more sustainable highway at the Hooskanaden slide, said Brookings City Manager Janell Howard on Wednesday. During a series of rainstorms at the end of February, roughly a quarter-mile of Highway 101 buckled and was gradually swept downward as an entire sodden hillside shifted causing a total closure that lasted for nearly two weeks and saw the city of Brookings hit with fuel and grocery shortages as commercial traffic struggled to make the journey. Workers with Tidewater Contractors alongside the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) re-opened the area to a single lane of traffic on March 9, with plans to add a second lane by early April. But a "permanent" fix something more than paved gravel, something that can stand the test of time in an area prone to major slides will likely prove to be a pricey prospect. We have been advised by regional ODOT staff that a rough cost estimate for a semi-permanent fix would be in the $40 million range, and that it is not a part of any current budget request," said Gary Milliman, a retired Brookings City Manager and current chair of the local transportation commission. Milliman is asking his commission to lobby the Oregon Transportation Commission for help from local, state and federal agencies to help address and fund the slide fix. The highway outage caused by this slide was more than just an inconvenience, said Brookings Mayor Jake Pieper. It had real public safety and economic impacts on the Curry County community. Now the City of Brookings is asking for locals to write letters of support that will be passed on to state authorities, adding weight to requests for aid. We need information specific to the individual experience of people and businesses adversely impacted by the highway closure, Howard said. According to a statement from the City, officials have heard reports of ambulance traffic being sent away to Crescent City in California during the closure, on top of the ubiquitous fuel shortages. And, Brookings officials said, neighboring Del Norte County has received support from local, state and federal officials to address a similar problem on 101 at Last Chance Grade, south of Crescent City. "Its a long timeline, with construction not expected to begin until at least 2031, Milliman said. But at least they have a plan, and they have commitments from all levels of government to support the plan. We need to do the same for 'Hooskanaden Slide.'" However, ODOT has said in previous statements that it is already working on a new design for a more permanent fix, with construction efforts slated to begin as early as late summer of 2019. Starting the work any earlier, with the Hooskanaden slide area continuing to shift slightly in wet spring conditions, is not a likely to be a realistic proposition. By ERIC TUCKER, MICHAEL BALSAMO and CHAD DAY Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) Special counsel Robert Mueller on Friday turned over his long-awaited final report on the contentious Russia investigation that has cast a dark shadow over Donald Trump's presidency, entangled Trump's family and resulted in criminal charges against some of the president's closest associates. The public needs to see what is in Muellers report, as well as his investigative materials. Any effort to hide the Special Counsels work from the American people will reek of a cover up. https://t.co/jVH2IMcLNY Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) March 22, 2019 The comprehensive report, still confidential, marks the end of Mueller's probe but sets the stage for big public fights to come. The next steps are up to Trump's attorney general, to Congress and, in all likelihood, federal courts. The Justice Department said the report was delivered by a security officer Friday afternoon to the office of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. Word of the delivery triggered reactions across Washington. Shortly afterward, Attorney General William Barr released a letter noting his plans to write his own account of Mueller's findings. The White House released a statement saying it had not seen or been briefed on the document. Next steps are "up to Attorney General (William) Barr," said White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. Barr said he could send his account to Congress quickly. "I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend," Barr said in his letter the top Republicans and Democrats on the House and Senate Judiciary committees. He pledged a commitment to transparency. He said the Justice Department had not denied any requested action by his office. Barr was required to disclose to Congress any instance in which Mueller asked to take an action during his investigation but was told no by the department. With no details released at this point, it's not known whether Mueller's report answers the core questions of his investigation: Did Trump's campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favor of the celebrity businessman? Also, did Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? But the delivery of the report does mean the investigation has concluded without any public charges of a criminal conspiracy between the campaign and Russia, or of obstruction by the president. It's unclear what steps Mueller will take if he uncovered what he believes to be criminal wrongdoing by Trump, in light of Justice Department legal opinions that have held that sitting presidents may not be indicted. The mere delivery of a confidential report will set off immediate demands, including in the Democratic-led House, for full release of Mueller's findings. Barr has said he wants to make as much public as possible, and any efforts to withhold details will prompt a tussle between the Justice Department and lawmakers who may subpoena Mueller and his investigators to testify before Congress. Such a move by Democrats would likely be vigorously contested by the Trump administration. The conclusion of Mueller's investigation does not remove legal peril for the president. Trump faces a separate Justice Department investigation in New York into hush money payments during the campaign to two women who say they had sex with him years before the election. He's also been implicated in a potential campaign finance violation by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who says Trump asked him to arrange the transactions. Federal prosecutors, also in New York, have been investigating foreign contributions made to the president's inaugural committee. No matter the findings in Mueller's report, the investigation has already illuminated Russia's assault on the American political system, painted the Trump campaign as eager to exploit the release of hacked Democratic emails and exposed lies by Trump aides aimed at covering up their Russia-related contacts. Over the 21-month investigation, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including six aides and advisers to the president, and three companies. The special counsel brought a sweeping indictment accusing Russian military intelligence officers of hacking Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign and other Democratic groups during the 2016 election. He charged another group of Russians with carrying out a large-scale social media disinformation campaign against the American political process that also sought to help Trump and hurt Clinton. Closer to the president, Mueller secured convictions against a campaign chairman who cheated banks and dodged his taxes, a national security adviser who lied about his Russian contacts and a campaign aide who misled the FBI about his knowledge of stolen emails. Cohen, the president's former lawyer, pleaded guilty in New York to campaign finance violations arising from the hush money payments and in the Mueller probe to lying to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. Another Trump confidant, Roger Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied about his pursuit of Russian-hacked emails ultimately released by WikiLeaks. It's unclear whether any of the aides who have been convicted, all of whom have pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigators, might angle for a pardon. Trump has left open the idea of pardons. Along the way, Trump lawyers and advisers repeatedly evolved their public defenses to deal with the onslaught of allegations from the investigation. Where once Trump and his aides had maintained that there were no connections between the campaign and Russia, by the end of the probe Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani was routinely making the argument that even if the two sides did collude, it wasn't necessarily a crime. The goalpost shifting reflected the administration's challenge in adopting a singular narrative to fend off allegations. Equally central to Mueller's work is his inquiry into whether the president tried to obstruct the investigation. Since the special counsel's appointment in May 2017, Trump has increasingly tried to undermine the probe by calling it a "witch hunt" and repeatedly proclaiming there was "NO COLLUSION" with Russia. But Trump also took certain acts as president that caught Mueller's attention and have been scrutinized for possible obstruction. One week before Mueller's appointment, Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, later saying he was thinking of "this Russia thing" at the time. He mercilessly harangued Attorney General Jeff Sessions for recusing from the Russia investigation two months before Mueller was named special counsel, a move that left the president without a perceived loyalist atop the probe. And he helped draft a misleading statement on Air Force One as a Trump Tower meeting between his eldest son and a Kremlin-connected lawyer was about to become public. The meeting itself became part of Mueller's investigation, entangling Donald Trump Jr. in the probe. Mueller's team also interviewed the president's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, multiple times. Even as Trump blasted Mueller's team, his White House and campaign produced thousands of documents for the special counsel, and dozens of his aides were interviewed. The president submitted written answers to Mueller regarding the Russia investigation, but he refused to be interviewed CALIFORNIA-- PG&E is pushing back against a judge's proposals saying they aren't possible. The judge wants the company to comply with all vegetation management and clearance laws to make sure trees do not threaten power lines and cause fires. The judge says the company wasn't doing enough. PG&E said it's not possible to quote "monitor every tree at every moment of every day" to make sure they follow the law. Attorneys for the company said trees may fall at any point from man-made or natural causes and don't think they should be liable. The company sought bankruptcy protection in January in the face of billions of dollars in potential liability from recent wildfires, including the Camp Fire. WILLIAMS, Ore. On March 2 of 2017, 46-year-old Kimberly Ann Mericle disappeared from the Williams area. Her family and friends have been pushing desperately for clues to her location or information about what may have happened ever since. On Friday, the Oregon State Police (OSP) issued a statement once again asking for information from the public that could help investigators find some sign of her. "Oregon State Police has been investigating this disappearance and is again reaching out to the public for assistance," the statement read. Investigators have confirmed that her vehicle, a red Isuzu Rodeo, has since been recovered. According to social media posts from Mericle's friends and family, the vehicle was located in Grants Pass behind a group of hotels by the northernmost exit, near I-5. Unfortunately, recovery of her car did not lead investigators to her location nor have they publicly issued any theories about what may have happened to her. UNSOLVED: The disappearance of Kimberly Mericle has been part of NewsWatch 12's "Unsolved" section since May of 2017. Mericle is described as being 5'3", about 120 pounds, with blue eyes and chin-length brown hair at the time of her disappearance. Family and friends are now offering a reward of $25,000 for information that leads to Mericle's whereabouts. If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Ms. Mericle please contact Detective Cory Sweet at 541-618-7982 or the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 541-776-6111 and refer case number SP17-153979 The government of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), on a recent U.S. report, reiterated Friday that "foreign governments should not interfere in any form in the internal affairs of the HKSAR." "Since the return to the motherland, the HKSAR has been exercising 'Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong' and a high degree of autonomy in strict accordance with the Basic Law. The 'one country, two systems' principle has been fully and successfully implemented," a spokesman for the HKSAR government said in response to the Hong Kong Policy Act Report issued by the U.S. Department of State. Hong Kong has always been a vibrant and open region, the spokesman said, noting that the Heritage Foundation of the United States has ranked Hong Kong as the world's freest economy for 25 consecutive years. Hong Kong ranks first in Asia in terms of judicial independence, and is also one of the safest places in the world, the spokesman said. The spokesman said that human rights and freedom in Hong Kong are fully protected by the Basic Law, the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance and other legislation, adding that "HKSAR government attaches great importance to them and is determined to safeguard them." Relevant international human rights conventions and court cases have clearly pointed out that freedom of speech is not absolute, said the spokesman. The Basic Law clearly stipulates that the HKSAR is an inalienable part of China, and any suggestion for "Hong Kong's independence" is a blatant violation of the Basic Law and a direct affront to the national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, the spokesman said. "Hong Kong's independence" runs counter to the implementation of "one country, two systems" and undermines the HKSAR's constitutional and legal foundations as enshrined in the Basic Law, said the spokesman. On other issues mentioned in the report, including the prohibition of the operation of the Hong Kong National Party, a visa application case, the Legislative Council by-election in November 2018 and the 2019 rural ordinary election, the HKSAR government emphasized that it has always been handling Hong Kong affairs strictly in accordance with the "one country, two systems" principle, the Basic Law and the laws of Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in HKSAR also rejected the U.S. report on Friday by saying that "we stand firmly against the United States' interference in Hong Kong affairs and China's domestic affairs by issuing the so-called report." A spokesperson of the office said since Hong Kong's return to the motherland, the principles of "one country, two systems," "Hong Kong people administrating Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy have been faithfully implemented, adding that Hong Kong residents enjoy extensive rights and freedom never seen before, which is a universally-recognized fact. "In the so-called report, the U.S. side made unwarranted comments on Chinese central government's policies towards Hong Kong under the pretext of human rights and freedom. It also made groundless accusations against the legitimate and lawful measures taken by the HKSAR government to fight against forces for 'Hong Kong independence,' safeguard national sovereignty and security and uphold the rule of law in Hong Kong," the spokesperson said. "The United States is distorting the facts and causing confusion. We urge the U.S. side to stop viewing 'one country, two systems' in a selective manner through colored glasses, refrain from commenting irresponsibly on Hong Kong affairs and put an end to its interference in China's domestic affairs," the spokesperson said. 93 Shares Share This article is sponsored by Careers by KevinMD.com. We live in a time when social media isnt just about sharing pictures or ideas with a close circle of friends and family. Between our Facebook statuses, our Twitter profiles and especially our LinkedIn pages, we are always public, all the time no matter what your privacy settings may have you believe. For people in the health care industry, the line between the professional and the personal is a particularly difficult one to navigate in the digital realm. Its perfectly natural to want to use social media as a platform to vent about a trying day, to source new opinions on a difficult case or even to humblebrag about a job well done. But doing so may put your job and your entire health care career in jeopardy. It was just a friendly post Social media conduct is a thorny issue in the health care sector, where HIPAA rules and patient confidentiality are extremely important but also all too easy to break. Sometimes, the violations are fairly obvious and egregious, like the doctor who posted pictures of a young female patient being treated for extreme intoxication to Facebook and Instagram or the nursing home staff that sent Snapchat photos of residents in private moments to friends while on the job. Other times, a social media post may seem perfectly benign or even friendly but still breach protocol. A number of ER staffers were fired for offering their condolences for a police officer killed in the line of duty on Facebook before his family was even notified. A nurse who posts a selfie with his favorite patient without consent or who makes an identifying comment in a Tweet about the man who had a heart attack or the young girl who attempted suicide: these are all HIPAA violations, even if you think your account is private. If youre giving any data about a patient at all, youve breached the privacy, said Pam Lane, vice president of health informatics with the California Hospital Association, in an article for the American Society of Registered Nurses. People are doing it and they are losing their jobs. It had nothing to do with my job And then there are the examples where a social media post might not directly have anything to do with your job at all. In July, a nurse at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia was fired after posting a racially-charged rant against a Black Lives Matter protest in the city, which read in part: I am sick and tired of all this bull**** with the black people!! After a public petition for the nurses removal, Jefferson Hospital released a statement regarding the situation: An employees decision to post inflammatory comments on social media is an unfortunate choice Whether we choose to acknowledge it or not, we must recognize that what we say on social media can directly affect how people perceive Jefferson particularly when those comments put into question Jeffersons commitment to the care of our patients, treatment of our fellow colleagues and education of our students. What about free speech? Was Jefferson right to fire an employee for a social media post made outside of work, or should the nurse be allowed to say whatever she likes under the First Amendment protection of free speech? Its not a philosophical question up for debate: There is a right and a wrong answer. In most cases, the First Amendment does not protect employees from being fired for anything they post, say or do on social media. Many workers remain painfully unaware of this fact. The First Amendment Right to Freedom of Speech allows individuals to express themselves without interference or constraint by the government, explains HubShout in a recent report on social media conduct. Speech is not protected from private sector disciplinary action. But when HubShout set out to survey how people actually interpreted the law, the results were alarming. In response to the question, Do you believe that getting fired because of a social media post is an infringement of First Amendment rights? 41 percent of people said Yes, and another 30 percent said Not Sure. In other words, roughly seven in 10 workers dont understand how their online actions could affect their professional lives. Social media can help or hurt your career We often use social media as an extension of our personalities, so its no wonder that employers would measure how current staff or potential hires conduct themselves online to gauge their behavior in the workplace. It doesnt all have to be negative, though. A survey of recruiters found that 55 percent had reconsidered a job candidate based on their social media profiles, and while 61 percent of those reconsiderations were unfavorable, the remaining 39 percent were positive. Social media is just that: social. Its meant as a public forum, and it needs to be treated like one. Workers in the medical industry need to be especially careful about how they discuss work-related issues online and should be aware of how their actions might reflect their ability to inspire trust in a general public that requires dependable, quality care. Sandra Canosa is a writer, Careers by KevinMD.com. Find jobs at Careers by KevinMD.com. Search thousands of physician, PA, NP, and CRNA jobs now. 3 Shares Share Physician Speaking by KevinMD is the only physician-run, all-physician boutique speakers bureau in existence. We are practicing physicians who are as comfortable on stage as we are in the hospital, clinic, or operating room. We have the credibility to inspire your audience, and the authenticity to make a difference. Were proud to be keynoting the following events in the coming months: the 2019 Association of Staff Physician Recruiters Annual Conference and TexMed 2019. Dr. Hassan Tetteh keynotes the Association of Staff Physician Recruiters 2019 Annual Conference Dr. Hassan Tetteh will give the closing keynote at the Association of Staff Physician Recruiters 2019 Annual Conference. Dr. Tetteh is an associate professor of surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and a staff thoracic surgeon for MedStar Health and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He served as ships surgeon and director of surgical services for the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) battle group in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, deployed as a trauma surgeon to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom with II Marine Expeditionary Forces, and has supported special joint forces missions to South America, the Middle East, the South Pacific, Australia, and Africa. His military honors include two Meritorious Service Medals and the Joint Service Commendation Medal. His keynote is entitled, The Art of Human Care. Dr. Lipi Roy keynotes TexMed 2019 Dr. Lipi Roy will give the closing keynote at TexMed 2019, the annual meeting of the Texas Medical Association. Dr. Roy is an internal medicine physician, board-certified in addiction medicine, clinical assistant professor at the New York University Department of Population Health, and the medical director of a New York City addiction treatment center. In her prior role as chief of addiction medicine for New York City jails, she oversaw substance use treatment and recovery efforts at Rikers Island, the nations second-largest jail. Her keynote is entitled, The Opioid Crisis: How Did We Get Here and How Do We Get Out? Discover why these organizations, along with dozens of others such as Pri-Med, Kaiser Permanente, the College of American Pathologists, the American Orthopaedic Association, and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, trust Physician Speaking by KevinMD to highlight their events. Physician Speaking by KevinMD: Your audience deserves the best. CORVALLIS, Ore. -- An Albany man pleaded not guilty to 40 counts of sexual abuse on Thursday. Juan Leal-Galvez, 46, is accused of abusing one victim, and the abuse allegedly began when she was 7 years old. After over a decade the victim came forward and told her doctor about the continued abuse, saying she estimates he abused her about 15 times a month for years and as recently as December. Deputy District Attorney Amie Matusko said Leal-Galvez the abuse began in Philomath. Matusko also said Oregon has recently ammended laws that allow victims more rights. "Recently the legislature has changed the statute of limitations in child sexual abuse cases in order to understand that children don't always disclose," Matusko said. Victims of child sex abuse now have until they turn 30 to report the crimes and press charges. Leal-Galvez is being held on a $3.7 million bond, and his next court hearing is scheduled for Tuesday. SWEET HOME, Ore. -- A police chase led to an armed standoff in Sweet Home Friday night, police said. Around 5:30 p.m., the Sweet Home Police Department received a report of a disturbance and possible assault. When officers responded to the 2200 block of Ironwood Street, they saw a man leaving in a vehicle. The man, Darrell Schilling of Sweet Home, faces charges of domestic violence, menacing, violation of a no-contact order, attempt to elude, reckless driving, unlawful use of a firearm and criminal trespass with a firearm. He is in the Linn County Jail. RELATED: Police chase leads to armed standoff in Sweet Home Police told KEZI 9 News they tried to conduct a traffic stop and a pursuit followed. They said the pursuit went on for about a mile and ended when Schilling stopped his vehicle in a wooded area. Schilling left his vehicle with an assault-style firearm and took cover at the front of his vehicle, police said. Officers attempted to communicate with Schilling, who was the only occupant of the vehicle, but he would not respond. Linn County Regional SWAT responded to help with their negotiations. Police said Schilling did not respond to any attempts to end the standoff peacefully. The standoff went on through the night and into Saturday morning. Lane County SWAT responded to assist and relieve Linn County Regional SWAT due to the prolonged time frame of the incident. Around 5:30 a.m., Schilling surrendered and was taken into custody by Lane County SWAT with no injuries to himself or any law enforcement officers. Two firearms and multiple loaded magazines were taken from the vehicle. EUGENE, Ore. -- With a nationwide grounding of Boeing's 737 Max, Congressman Peter DeFazio is now promising a federal investigation into Boeing. DeFazio is also the Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. A big question he has is why there wasn't pilot training for the jet. He said the 737 Max had a new automated system that's never been on a Boeing plane before. "The bottom line is that this plane did not require extra pilot training, even though it had radically new systems on it," DeFazio said. He said when a plane is substantially different than its predecessors, generally pilot training is required. It wasn't for this one. "That raises a host of red flags for me," DeFazio said. He said he has an oversight investigative staff in the committee who are developing a specific line of questions for Boeing, the Federal Aviation Administration, and European and Brazilian regulators. "Initially the Europeans said, 'No, no, no. This requires pilot training,'" DeFazio said. "And the Brazilians never changed their mind, so we have to get all those threads back to the FAA and Boeing and figure out how this happened." All of the 737 Maxes have been grounded since the most recent crash, which happened in Ethiopia. Another 737 Max went down in Indonesia. No one survived either crash. Some local flyers said once they're up in the air again, they'd trust it would be safe. EUGENE, Ore. -- For some drivers and pedestrians, the intersection of Willakenzie and Coburg roads is daunting, and now they're demanding changes be made. Susan Fisher is one of many drivers concerned about the intersection. She said people constantly cross the double yellow lines, back into traffic and block the sidewalk in the area. The parking lot by Walgreens and Dutch Bros is of particular concern. Some said they go to that area when they're in a hurry because its a one stop shop, but the problem is the legal entrance takes too long to get to. Drivers aren't the only ones with traffic safety concerns. "People need to be more cautious of kids, adults, people that have disability problems, Fisher said. Kim Smith walks on this street every day to get her daily exercise. She told KEZI 9 News she cant walk as fast as she used to because of her cancer. She specifically avoids the side of the street where people turn into the parking lot because she says she doesnt trust drivers behaviors. "I have to put up my hand and say, 'Stop.' I think they need more of a stop-side turn right here because kids ... I see small kids getting hit, bicyclists getting hit, Smith said. Officials told KEZI about 15 crashes happen at the intersection every year. They put up temporary barriers to try and steer drivers away from bad behaviors, but have since taken them down. They are currently working on putting in a speed bump to reduce peoples speed and hopefully many peoples fears. A Chinese court on Friday handed down penalties from fines to jail terms to 21 people for their roles in a high-profile case of illegally absorbing public deposits. Shan Jiuliang, board chairman and president of Kunming Fanya Metal Exchange, was sentenced to 18 years in jail for illegally raising funds from the public and embezzlement, according to the verdict issued by the Kunming Intermediate People's Court in southwest China's Yunnan Province. Fanya Metal Exchange got a fine of 1 billion yuan (149 million U.S. dollars), while Shan will have 50 million yuan confiscated from his personal assets, apart from a 500,000-yuan fine. Twenty other defendants also received penalties ranging from prison terms to fines. Three other companies were also fined 500 million yuan, 50 million yuan and 5 million yuan, respectively. The court said the defendants in violation of China's financial laws, solicited huge amounts of funds from the public by promising them a fixed rate of profits from rare metal trading, causing huge economic losses to the participants. Police are still working to retrieve the convicts' illegal earnings, which will be used to refund victims of the crime, the court said. Flash Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Italian counterpart, Sergio Mattarella, held talks here Friday, and agreed to jointly push for greater development of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership in the new era. The two heads of state agreed to guide the direction of bilateral ties from a strategic height and long-term perspective. During their talks, Xi noted that both as countries with an ancient civilization, China and Italy have profound historical relations. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership, and the two countries will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations next year, Xi said. He recalled that for nearly half a century, China and Italy have respected, trusted and helped each other, enhanced high-level exchanges and strategic mutual trust, facilitated communication, cooperation and convergence of interests, and deepened mutual understanding and traditional friendship. As the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, China is willing to carry forward the spirit of cooperation with the Italian side, strengthen strategic communication, encourage the international community to seek common ground while reserving differences and promote development through cooperation, so as to contribute new wisdom and strength to building a better world, Xi said. China stands ready to join hands with Italy to firmly keep the direction of bilateral relations in the new era, carry out closer high-level exchanges and upgrade the quality and level of bilateral practical cooperation, he said. Xi said he agrees with Mattarella that Italy and China should be partners with inclusive interests and common development, adding that China is willing to enhance the comprehensive strategic partnership with Italy. The two sides need to strengthen communication on visions, consolidate political mutual trust, continue to extend mutual understanding and support on issues of each other's core interests and major concerns, and strengthen communication and cooperation between their governments, legislative bodies and political parties, Xi said. He encouraged the two sides to create highlights in bilateral cooperation, jointly build the Belt and Road, and promote the synergy of their development strategies and the planning of practical cooperation. China is willing to import more high-quality products from Italy and encourage more capable Chinese enterprises to invest and start business in Italy, Xi said. He also urged the two countries to boost cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and enhance communication and cooperation in such fields as culture, education, film and television, and media, so as to consolidate the popular support for friendship between the two peoples. On China-Europe relations, Xi said his country has always supported the European integration and respected the European Union's efforts in solving its problems. Xi said he hopes that Italy will continue playing a positive role in promoting EU-China partnership for peace, growth, reform and civilization, Xi said. China is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with the Italian side on major issues such as the United Nations affairs, global governance, climate change and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, jointly promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and jointly push economic globalization in the direction of becoming more open, inclusive, balanced, win-win, and beneficial to all, he said. Mattarella warmly welcomed Xi, saying he still has a vivid memory of his visit to China in 2017. The frequent high-level exchanges between Italy and China, especially President Xi's visit this time, demonstrated the high level of bilateral relations, Mattarella said, calling China a close and important partner of Italy. Italy admires China's development achievements, appreciates China's adherence to the opening-up strategy, and has confidence in the prospect of Italy-China cooperation, he said. Italy is willing to take the opportunities of the 15th anniversary of the Italy-China comprehensive strategic partnership this year and the 50th anniversary of Italy-China diplomatic relations next year to expand the mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields such as economy and trade, investment, science and technology, and innovation between the two countries, Mattarella said. Italy and China were at the two ends of the ancient Silk Road which had been a bond closely linking the two countries, Mattarella said. Italy supports Xi's initiative on jointly building the Belt and Road and believes that it will be conducive to Eurasian connectivity and common development, as well as to reviving the ancient Silk Road in modern times, Mattarella said. Calling the Belt and Road a cultural exchange road, the Italian president said his country is willing to boost communication and cooperation with China in culture and tourism. Both as countries with an ancient civilization, Mattarella said the peoples of Italy and China have wisdom to address the challenges facing human society today. Italy believes that China's rejuvenation will make new historic contributions to the world's peace and prosperity, he said, adding that Italy is committed to promoting in-depth development of EU-China ties. Italy is willing to enhance communication and coordination with China in multilateral institutions such as the UN and the Group of Twenty, jointly safeguard multilateralism and trade liberalization, and meet challenges such as climate change and international security together, Mattarella said. The two presidents held a joint press conference after the talks. Before their talks, the Italian president held a grand welcoming ceremony for Xi. The Chinese president arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. I am 74 years old and still working. Im taking required minimum distributions from an old employers 401(k), but Im still contributing to my current employers 401(k). Can I roll the money from my old employers 401(k) into my current employers plan and delay taking RMDs on the money? Yes, if your current employer allows you to roll move money from other accounts into its plan. In that case, you can transfer the money from your old 401(k) to your current 401(k) and avoid taking RMDs on that money while youre still working there. You must take RMDs from traditional IRAs and former employers 401(k)s after you turn 70 , but you dont have to take RMDs from your current employers 401(k) while youre still working in that job no matter how old you are (unless you own 5% or more of the company). Not all plans accept roll-ins, but most do, says Tim Driscoll, a director of defined contribution product management for Fidelity. Have the money transferred directly from one plan to the other to avoid a tax bill or penalty on the rollover. Ask your current employers 401(k) administrator about how to move the money. You wont be able to avoid this years RMD from your old employers 401(k), however. The minimum required distribution for the year must be withdrawn from the former employers plan before any amounts would be eligible for the rollover, says Driscoll. After you take the RMD for the year, though, the rest of the money can go into your current employers 401(k). For more information about the rules, see How Working Past 70 Affects Retirement Savings. Also see our Required Minimum Distributions special report. 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! According to Forbes, beginning in 2010 the major central banks around the world began to become net purchasers of gold, rather than sellers of gold. According to their data in 2017 official sector activity rose 36% to 366 tons. Although the top 10 central banks with the largest gold reserves have remained mostly unchanged over the last few years. The United States continues to hold the number one spot with over 8,000 tons in its gold vaults. This is equal to the next three countries gold reserves combined. However, over the last eight years a trend has developed in which some of the major players have been slowly and quietly accumulating massive amounts of the precious yellow metal. As reported by Forbes magazine, For six consecutive years the Russian Central Bank has been the largest purchaser of gold, increasing its holdings by 224 tonnes in 2017 and overtaking China to hold the fifth spot, according to the 2018 GFMS Gold Survey. As reported by Neils Christenson, of Kitco news, the Russian Central Bank bought another million ounces of gold in February. This article acknowledges that the Russian Central Bank has been continuing to diversify away from US dollars and converting those dollars into gold holdings. This article quoted Ronald- Peter Stoeferle who stated, Russias demand for gold is part of the whole de-dollarization story that continues to get stronger and stronger. Central banks gold demand is clearly a trend that is gaining momentum. Then there is China. It seems that 2018 was an incredible year for their central bank gold accumulation, which to continue to this day. In fact, China added 11.8 tonnes to its reserves in January. As reported by Kitco News on February 12th, The latest reserve data from the Peoples Bank of China shows its gold holdings increased by 11.8 tonnes to 1,864 tonnes as of the end of January. The newest increase follows December purchase of just under 10 tonnes of gold, the first time the central bank increased its reserves since October 2016. According to the World Gold Council central banks continue to buy gold even after last years unprecedented accumulation. In 2018 central banks combined 651.5 tonnes of gold to their holdings. Even India has entered into this buying frenzy. Today ET Markets News reported that The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has bought gold for the first time in nearly a decade, signaling that the metal could be in demand as a store of value when returns and capital values of fixed-income bonds are declining in a rising rate environment. The RBI added 8.46 metric tonnes of gold to its stock of holdings during the financial year 2017-18 Taking the level of gold reserves to 566.23 metric tonnes, according to its latest annual report. Also, it was reported that a number of new buyers have entered the fray, this according to Alan Sykora, a reporter from Kitco news, This includes Poland and Hungary, the first European Union nations to buy gold since the start of the century, said Junlu Liang, senior analyst with the consultancy Metals Focus. In the case of Hungary, the central bank not only bought its first gold in 32 years, but also increased total holdings by 10-fold. The individuals that run the central banks globally are undoubtedly composed of some of the most brilliant financial minds in the world. The fact so many central banks have pivoted from that of net sellers to net buyers since 2010 is not only impressive, but indicates that they believe that gold is an essential and critical asset that should be accumulated. What do they know that the investing public does not? It also speaks to the basic supply and demand scenario in which large purchases by central banks will certainly support current gold pricing and add bullish pressure. If the smartest minds in the world are facilitating net accumulators of gold, the individual investor should certainly feel comfortable moving more of their assets into gold holdings. There is an old adage that you buy when the big boys buy, and sell when the big boys sell. If this adage holds any weight we could be looking for gold pricing to continue to rise in value. For those who would like more information, simply use this link. Wishing you as always, good trading, Flash U.S. special counsel Robert Mueller has submitted a confidential report to Attorney General William Barr, marking the end of his nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, media reported Friday. The Justice Department notified Congress late Friday that it had received Mueller's report but did not describe its contents, according to The Washington Post. No details of Mueller's findings have been released. It is not clear how soon they will be made public. Barr reportedly said he could brief Congress as early as this weekend about the findings. The Mueller-led inquiry focused on possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow during the 2016 presidential election and whether the president obstructed justice. The White House said in a statement Friday that it has not received or been briefed on the special counsel's report. "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course," the statement added. Mueller, who was appointed by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein in May 2017, is required to submit a report to Barr at the conclusion of his investigation. Barr, in turn, is required to notify Congress about Mueller's findings. According to special counsel regulations, the report must explain Mueller's "prosecution or declination decisions." Barr has said he will write his own report summarizing Mueller's findings. The probe, which has shadowed Trump's presidency, has led to felony charges against 34 people, including six Trump associates, and three companies. Trump has repeatedly dismissed any collusion between his campaign and Moscow, while slamming the wide-ranging inquiry as a "hoax" or "witch hunt." Russia has denied any meddling in the 2016 presidential election. Flash The international community on Friday expressed concern over U.S. President Donald Trump's unexpected announcement on the necessity to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Syria condemned Trump's announcement on Friday, calling it "irresponsible" and a failure to recognize international law. Trump's announcement confirmed "the blind bias of the United States to the Zionist entity (Israel)," Syria's SANA news agency cited a foreign ministry source as saying. It won't change "the fact that the Golan was and will remain Arab and Syrian," the source said. "The American position towards Syria's occupied Golan Heights clearly reflects the United States' contempt for international legitimacy and its flagrant violation of international law," it said. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also said on Friday that Trump's statement was bringing the Middle East region "on the brink of a new crisis." "We cannot allow the legitimization of the occupation of the Golan Heights," Erdogan said in a speech at an emergency meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Concurring with Turkey, Iran also criticized the move, saying such decision could bring about "a new wave of conflicts" in the Middle East. "The Zionist regime is occupational and has no sovereignty over any Arab or Islamic territories," Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi said Friday. "Iran will closely follow all further changes and adopt a corresponding political line in consultations with the Syrian government and other states," he said. Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Friday that it would violate United Nations (UN) resolutions if the United States unilaterally recognizes Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. "Russia, as you know, advocates the principled position on the Golan Heights belonging to Syria. It is enshrined in UN Security Council Resolution 497 in 1981. Our assessment of Israel's decision to assume sovereignty over the Golan Heights and enact this decision into a law in 1981 as illegitimate is unwavering," Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Kommersant FM, a local news radio station. "Changing the status of the Golan Heights bypassing the UN Security Council is a direct violation of UN decisions," she said. Trump said Thursday on Twitter that "after 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel's Sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability!" Israel seized the land in a war in 1967 and annexed it in the 1980s, but the international community has never recognized the move. A UN peacekeeping force tasked to patrol the buffer zone between Syria and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights was deployed in 1974 to separate Syrian and Israeli forces. The buffer zone had remained quiet until the start of the Syrian civil war in 2011. Elysia Rodgers is the agriculture and natural resources educator for DeKalb County with the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service. Flash Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday urged personages of business and cultural circles in China and Italy to contribute more wisdom and strength to the cooperation between the two countries. Xi made the remarks when speaking to representatives attending the meetings of the China-Italy Entrepreneur Committee, China-Italy Third Party Market Cooperation Forum and China-Italy Cultural Cooperation Mechanism, which are being held in parallel in Rome. While offering congratulations on the simultaneous convening of the three institutional meetings for the first time that showcases the China-Italy practical cooperation, Xi thanked the personages of business and cultural circles from the two countries for their long-time efforts and contributions to promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation, deepen mutual understanding between the two peoples and enhance the friendship between the two countries. Xi said that China and Italy both boast a time-honored history and highly value carrying forward their own civilization, which lay the foundation for the two countries to enjoy mutual understanding and lasting friendship. He praised the China-Italy relations as being strategic partners featuring mutual respect and trust, cooperative partners featuring mutual benefit and win-win result, and cultural exchange partners featuring mutual learning. China and Italy enjoy a solid political foundation for bilateral exchanges and cooperation, as the two sides can accommodate each other's core interests and major concerns, Xi said. The two-way trade has developed steadily and the bilateral investment has grown rapidly, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples, he said. On cultural front, the two countries have witnessed splendid exchanges, taking the lead in cultural exchanges and cooperation between China and the West, he said. "I am full of confidence in the prospect of the development of China-Italy relations," the Chinese president said. Xi noted that as next year marks the 50th anniversary of China-Italy diplomatic ties, the two sides will hold year of culture and tourism in each other's country, and they will embrace new opportunities in cooperation in various areas. China stands ready to work with all walks of life in Italy to push for a steady and long-term development of the bilateral relations on the path of mutual benefit and win-win result, and to make new contributions to boost the China-Europe connectivity and global development and prosperity at large, Xi said. "I hope that personages of business and cultural circles in China and Italy contribute more wisdom and strength in your own fields to the cooperation between our two countries," he told the representatives. Italian President Sergio Mattarella, who also spoke at the meeting with the representatives, agreed that both Italy and China are countries with an ancient civilization, which is the root of their profound relations. The two countries enjoy a traditional friendship and a long history of trade and cultural exchanges, he said, noting that under the new circumstances, the Italian government supports the business community of the two countries in deepening economic, trade and investment cooperation, and supports cultural circles in carrying out all-ranging exchanges. The two sides should work together to elevate their economic and trade cooperation to a new level, and expand cooperation on cultural Silk Road, in a bid to bring greater benefits to the two peoples, jointly respond to the challenges facing the world today, and lift the bilateral ties to a new height, he added. Xi arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of Xi's three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. (ATCHISON, Kan.) The boil advisory for the City of Atchison, Kansas has officially been rescinded by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The advisory was in effect because of high turbidity, caused by flood waters. Lab tests collected from Atchison and Doniphan County Rural Water District 5 showed no evidence of contamination. The boil water advisory does remain in effect for: Atchison County Rural Water Districts 1, 3, 5C, and 6. The City of Lancaster. Doniphan County Rural Water District 3. People who live within one of the water districts that remains under the advisory should: If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears. Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water. Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker. Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water. Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians. The advisory will remain in effect for the districts until final testing of water reveals no contamination. Flood Warnings remain in effect until further notice for areas along the Missouri River with a new possible record crest set on Friday at 32.08 feet in St. Joseph. The latest forecast from the National Weather Service brings the Missouri River to 31.8 feet Saturday in St. Joseph. Stay tuned to KQ2 for the latest! The next chance for rain will move in for the upcoming weekend. The best chance is looking right now to be Saturday into Sunday. We could even hear a few rumbles of thunder. The rain should move out on Sunday making way for mostly sunny skies as we start a new workweek. Temperatures remaining near average in the middle 50s to lower 60s. More chances of rain in the forecast return to the forecast Wednesday through Friday. MAPS: Local, Regional & National Radar Maps MORE: Hourly Forecast LIVE: Interactive Radar CLOSINGS: School & Business Closings & Delays LOCAL: WeatherCall TRAVEL: Traffic & Road Conditions Map YOUR LOCAL WEATHER AUTHORITY: Extended Forecast DOWNLOAD OUR WEATHER APPS: iOS | Android In actress Diane Franklins 2,200-square-foot Westlake Village home, animals take center stage. Her yellow living room houses a square cage for her 1-year-old, long-haired Peruvian guinea pig, while a large, close-up portrait of her clumber spaniel, Duke, proudly hangs in the middle of the room. (Her chinchilla, Mr. Pibb, resides in the kitchen.) Animals bring people together and make you act with empathy and fun. Well take vacations and bring the dog with us its a bonding thing, said Franklin, best known for her roles in the 80s favorites Better Off Dead and Bill & Teds Excellent Adventure. Franklins love for her animals even inspired her to surrender her favorite overstuffed chaise. Advertisement I really just wanted to lay in the chair, but Duke is so big he just owned it and I went, All right, you can have it, said Franklin, who recently starred in The Amityville Murders as the mother, Louise DeFeo. (Franklin played the older daughter in 1982s Amityville II: The Possession.) The guinea pig likes to sit on your shoulder and nuzzle in your hair. Franklin said her daughter adores him; hes a very socialized guinea pig. As for the painting of crabs hanging over the fireplace? Each one represents someone in the family and we have our own little island, she said. Crabs are funny, low to the ground and tough survivors. Were a funny family, and I think its a reflection of us in this wave of life. Why is this your favorite room? My son plays the upright bass in here, so I sit and listen to him play its one of my favorite things to do. The room has high ceilings so its got nice resonance. Whenever I get scripts and have to break them down, I come in and sit on this couch with my feet up, and I relax with a cup of coffee and chocolate cake. I want a place where you feel so comfortable you can create. All the pictures we have up are either our children, our dog, or some artwork that we made. We dont buy photos or art from other people our art is our family. Our memories. Tell me about the yellow paint color. I believe that color is so important to our soul and energy. One of the reasons we have a yellow room is because its like sunshine and brings a good feeling. Im also an artist and not afraid of using color and mixing it up. Its a powerful tool for a room; it can change everything. Is that giant coffee table made out of a door? Yes, its really heavy and good for an earthquake. We got it at Arte de Mexico, a Mexican store in L.A. Its a hole-in-the-wall with absolutely authentic stuff. The tables got history, its sturdy people can sit on it its well-made and I love the big metal doorknob and rivets. Nice piano. Its old fashioned, but I dont like the big, shellacked black pianos; I dont care how great they sound. I think its really important to have a piano in the house with kids, and this one is accessible, smaller and easier for them. I think its really what made my son have his love for music. Describe a perfect moment in here. When me, my husband, daughter, son and the dog were all squashed on this couch with blankets watching [the Travel Channels] Ghost Adventures. That is a wonderful family moment. Snuggled, with snacks. hotproperty@latimes.com Frustrations are mounting among some Uber and Lyft drivers about wages and treatment. But because ride-hailing drivers are classified as independent contractors instead of employees, unionizing a common way for discontented workers to bring about change is something of a non-starter. So in a parking lot outside Los Angeles International Airport, where Uber and Lyft drivers wait for ride requests, some ride-hailing workers are charting their own course. For the record: An earlier headline on this article suggested that drivers for ride-hailing companies were planning to strike due to mileage rate cuts by both Uber and Lyft. Only Uber altered mileage rates it pays drivers this month. Its there that drivers are trying to recruit their colleagues to protest pay cuts by Uber last week that slashed per-mile pay from 80 cents to 60 cents in Los Angeles County and parts of Orange County. They are planning to strike Monday, refusing to drive for both Uber and Lyft in a move they hope will mark an early step in a broader push for higher wages. READ MORE: Uber will pay $20 million to settle lawsuits over question of whether drivers are employees Advertisement Its not the first attempt by drivers to stage a strike against Uber and Lyft many of the same drivers organized a similar protest at LAX in 2017. The ride-hailing workers, this time led by a group called Rideshare Drivers United, say past strikes have lacked cohesive strategy and planning, ultimately leading to disparate demands and low attendance. Part of the problem, they say, is that the drivers fight has long fixated on their classification as independent contractors a battle that has so far proved fruitless. Though they would still prefer to be classified as employees, they hope they can unite a broader swath of the workforce by focusing first on pay. Thats what we need and the best way is to get there quickly, said Nicole Moore, a part-time Uber driver who has become one of a handful of de facto leaders of the movement. There is no doubt that if we are employees we have the right to be protected by national laws that provide a pathway to organizing and give us a right to a contract at the end of our fight, Moore said. But drivers need gas in the car so that we can actually pay our rent and put food on the table for our family. The group, which Moore said has grown from 200 in 2017 to about 3,000, is demanding Uber increase fares 25% back to rates the company rolled out in September 2018. For these rates I might as well be working at the Amazon warehouse, she said. Uber says it altered the rates because the pay scale it introduced last September did not have the intended impact. The company contends other changes, including a higher per-minute rate and new driver promotions, will improve take-home pay. You can expect average driver earnings in LA to be comparable with other rideshare opportunities and pre-September average earnings, Uber wrote in an email to drivers. Although Lyft hasnt followed Ubers recent rate cuts in Los Angeles, drivers are planning a 25-hour strike against both companies because each has already slashed fares to levels some consider untenable. Sinakhone Keodara drives for Lyft using a vehicle he rented from the company. Keodara became homeless in September after pouring money into building his own app and took up driving for Lyft to get himself on his feet. He has resorted to paying $25 a night to stay at a local Korean spa that allows overnight guests. But his earnings on Lyft arent always enough to cover that fee in addition to the $240 weekly payment for the car and the cost of gas. On those nights, his car doubles as his home. Im not the only one, Keodara said. Im really struggling, he said. But I feel like its time for us to humanize our struggle. Let people know whats really going on with us as were driving for Lyft and Uber trying to survive and this is what is happening to us. Though Uber and Lyft have both made efforts to appease current drivers and recruit new ones, protests and strikes have so far done little to move wages. With both companies planning initial public offerings, the firms have even more reason to focus on cutting costs. Another obstacle for the demonstrators is organizing an inherently disorganized workforce. Because Uber and Lyft drivers only interact with the company through apps, theres no one place where they can spread the word and no picket line where they can rally for their cause. Some drivers and many passengers might not even realize a strike is underway on March 25. I mean we cant deliver a financial blow thats going to wound them meaningfully, said Keith Eberl, a full-time Uber driver. But we can certainly get their attention. The realization they might have is that this isnt drivers getting together in a crunch to do one strike and go their separate ways. This is an expanding, growing organization thats been using this action and our previous action to simultaneously grow the membership. Driver victories in New York City, where a local regulator has imposed a minimum wage for Uber and Lyft contractors, have given the organizers hope. They say there has been interest from drivers in San Diego and Washington, D.C., about starting their own chapters. Rideshare Drivers United organizers received support, including about $500 in donations to help cover any costs related to the strike, from a group of about 200 traditional unions at a recent meeting at the Los Angeles County Labor Federation. While the organizers want to eventually secure a place among the established unions, the focus now is on spreading the word among a diffuse workforce. This is about person-to-person organizing, Moore said. One method is through an app theyve built that matches organizers with drivers who have expressed interest in their campaign. Organizers discuss drivers concerns, promote the strike and identify potential leaders. Keodara who cant afford to take any time off from driving said it allows him to stay involved. johana.bhuiyan@latimes.com Twitter: @jmbooyah On Sept. 13, 1971, the deadliest prison upheaval in American history came to a blood-spattered end just east of Buffalo, N.Y., with more than 40 prisoners and employees dead at the notorious Attica Correctional Facility. Prisoner demands for humane treatment were met with an institutional show of force. In response, artist Faith Ringgold drew a devastating map. A copy hangs in the second room of Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power, 1963-1983, a large and ambitious traveling exhibition downtown at the Broad. Nearly half a century on, Ringgolds image still shocks. Partly thats because it resonates against mass incarceration as a defining civil rights issue today. The prison rebellion embodied elements of a national history that remained very much repressed. Attica held nearly twice as many inmates as the penitentiary had been designed for, more than half of them black Americans; the correctional staff was largely white. Ringgold titled her map, which she mass-produced as a lithographic poster, United States of Attica. As the civil rights movement slowly advanced, pushback was being felt. Advertisement The map shows the country divided into quadrants, a crisscross that recalls the view through the scope of a rifle. Red, green and black the colors representing blood, fertility and the African diaspora in the now hundred-year-old Pan-African flag make the target explicit. SPRING ARTS PREVIEW: Critics recommendations and emerging artists to know Annotations written across almost every state, as well as in areas beyond the countrys borders, chronicle brutal episodes of lynching, rape, war, indigenous genocides and other violence. A caption invites adding whatever incidents of mayhem might be missing. This is not a Jasper Johns-style map, on which a beautifully chaotic array of brushy color and stenciled, misdirected place-names brilliantly re-imagines what a work of art is or might be. Ringgolds chaos is instead declarative and relentless. The carnage piles up. Her shrewd map also subtly encodes Johns as a major American artist consecrated by New Yorks Museum of Modern Art, which famously acquired three paintings in 1958 from the then-unknown artists first gallery show. The Attica debacle was managed by Gov. Nelson Rockefeller, whose family founded MoMA. Norman Lewis, America the Beautiful, 1960, oil on canvas ( Estate of Norman Lewis; Courtesy of Michael Rosenfeld Gallery LLC, New York, NY) Soul of a Nation is filled with many such searing moments. Organized by Londons Tate Modern, it features about 145 paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs and prints, plus ephemera (letters, magazines, notebooks, documentation, etc.) by more than 60 artists. That a British modern art museum is telling a distinctly American story is not only unexpected, it also might harbor an unforeseen advantage. The story of African American art is more underknown than unknown. In the United States, individual figures such as painter and collagist Romare Bearden, photographer Roy DeCarava, assemblage artists David Hammons, Noah Purifoy and Betye Saar, sculptor Martin Puryear and several others are well established. As a larger contemporary movement, however, black art has languished in an institutional blind spot, with sporadic attention such as the UCLA Hammer Museums impressive Now Dig This! Art and Black Los Angeles,1960-1980 in 2011. Given a sprawling history seen from far afield, Tate curators Mark Godfrey and Zoe Whitley found a useful contextual framework that illuminates a subject both broad and complex. They chose a related pair of emphases. One is on artists as individual creators working within a heightened sense of community, essential to the social stresses of the black power era. The other is a city focus convergences in the major artistic centers of Los Angeles, Chicago and New York. Groups like Harlems Kamoinge Workshop and Chicagos AfriCobra gain clarity. Part of the Broad show focuses on the 1971 exhibition Three Graphic Artists at LACMA, which included prints by David Hammons and Timothy Washington and The Door (Admissions Office) by Hammons. (Pablo Enriquez / The Broad) At the Broad, the story unfolds in 11 chapters. It begins with the Spiral, an eclectic affiliation of 15 New York artists who came together to ponder what black artists could do to advance civil rights. They produced a single 1965 exhibition in which diverse works were all in black and white, such as Norman Lewis jagged vision of the Ku Klux Klan as white lacerations across the paintings black surface-skin. Other sections examine difficult questions. Who should the audience be for artists largely estranged from establishment art venues? What about abstraction for a movement aimed at social consciousness? That question was often answered with analogies to music or textiles, as in the staccato luminescence of Alma Thomas abstract paintings. Jack Whitten gives a deft reply in his Homage to Malcolm X, exposing pools of red and green underpainting in a pyramid-shaped canvas by dragging an Afro-pick comb through a black surface layer. Roy DeCarava, Malcolm X, 1964, gelatin silver print (Pablo Enriquez / The Broad) REVIEW: Charles White show at LACMA pinpoints the power of an underappreciated black artist One room considers photography as both journalism and art, mechanisms for maneuvering within and around media representation. Another takes the next step painted portraiture, highlighted by Barkley L. Hendricks 1969 self-portrait wearing nothing but a Superman T-shirt. With determined wit, his superhero pose elevated to the next level the iconic I Am a Man protest made the year before by striking sanitation workers in Memphis, Tenn. The show takes off in the fifth gallery, which looks at L.A. assemblage artists. At one end is Saars 1972 Ive Got Rhythm, a tabletop sculpture that transforms Man Rays Indestructible Object, a Surrealist metronome sporting an all-seeing eye on its pendulum, into a blistering, ticking time bomb on the subject of lynching. At the other is Purifoys astounding painting Watts Riot, made from salvage gathered in the wake of the disastrous 1965 event and arguably the most sensuously beautiful work of art ever wrenched from conflagration. Assemblage pulls together and repurposes discarded objects an art of the superfluous and the overlooked yielding new and essential life. Prominent in L.A. since the 1950s, by the next decade it offered an open-ended sense of possibility for artists within a burgeoning art scene in a city without a strong institutional fabric. Saar, Purifoy, Hammons, John Outterbridge, Melvin Edwards black artists ran with it. As a loose community of talented individuals, they had nothing to lose and everything to gain. Betye Saar, Ive Got Rhythm, 1973, mixed media (Pablo Enriquez / The Broad) LACMA: Troublesome signs in a risky reorganization plan The show does have small stumbles. A few works on black subjects by accomplished artists who are white (painter Alice Neel) and Japanese (photographer Ruiko Yoshida and poet Hajime Kijima) mean to acknowledge staunch black power allies, but they come across as distractions. Daniel LaRue Johnsons painted totem-sculpture is installed next to a wall, obscuring the spiritually minded, Barnett Newman-like stripe on the back. The primary oddity, however, is the bigger frame provided by the entry and exit rooms. The show closes with a selection of work shown at Just Above Midtown, an influential New York gallery that sought to cultivate a black collector base by operating at the epicenter of the 57th Street art market between 1974 and 1977. (Several L.A.-based African American artists showed there.) Recall that Soul of a Nation opens with the Spiral group, formed a decade earlier by a wide range of artists mulling what one writer described as their attitudes and commitments as Negro artists in the present struggle for Civil Rights. Perhaps inadvertently, the nations cultural soul is framed as a fight to move from social marginalization to a secure place within the art market. That narrative might be one opportune consequence of black power, but its unlikely to rank as the highest aspiration for a historic project with imperative political and philosophical dimensions. Happily, the arts strength and the exhibitions otherwise savvy organization overcomes it. Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power 1963-1983 Where: The Broad, 221 S. Grand Ave., L.A. When: Tuesdays-Sundays, ends Sept. 1 Admission: $12-$18; advance timed entry tickets recommended, free entry 5-8 p.m. Thursdays with last entry at 7 p.m. (General admission to the rest of the museum is always free.) Info: (213) 232-6200, thebroad.org Openings The Bauhaus at 100: Modern Legacies Exhibit marks the centennial of the German art and architecture. Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A. Now through May 5. Closed Wed. $10-$25; 17 and under, free. (323) 857-6010. Dressed with Distinction: Garments from Ottoman Syria Examples of textile production and handwoven cloth created during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Fowler Museum, UCLA, 308 Charles E. Young Drive North, Westwood. Now through Aug. 18. Closed Mon.-Tue. Free. (310) 825-4361. Lightscapes: Re-envisioning the Shanshuihua New media works and immersive light-based installations by Taiwan-born contemporary artists Nick Dong and Wu Chi-Tsung. Chinese American Museum, 425 N. Los Angeles St., L.A. Free; suggested donation, $3. Now through Nov. 10. Closed Mon. (213) 485-8567. Prospects of India: 18th- and 19th-Century British Drawings from The Huntingtons Art Collections Works on paper exploring the landscape of the former British colony. The Huntington, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. Now through June 10. Closed Tue. $13-$29; children under 4, free. (626) 405-2100. Advertisement Hammer Projects: Yunhee Min Paintings by the contemporary artist are displayed on the steps, rather than the walls, of the Hammers lobby staircase. UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood. Starts Thu.; ends Oct. 27. Closed Mon. Free. (310) 443-7000. Indian Country: The Art of David Bradley Four-decade survey of paintings by the contemporary Chippewa artist. Autry Museum of the American West, Griffith Park, 4700 Western Heritage Way, L.A. Starts next Sun.; ends Jan. 5. Closed Mon. $6-$14; children under 3, free. (323) 667-2000. What is Democracy? is not only the title of the thought-provoking documentary from writer-director Astra Taylor, but the big question posed to most of the films interview subjects, a wide and diverse swath that ranges from academics, theorists and politicos to everyday kids and adults. The definitions of democracy proposed here are as expansive as the respondents themselves: Justice for everybody!, Freedom!, Self-rule! and so on. The chief takeaway: One of the key words in our political language may be more open to interpretation and subjectivity and clear-cut parameters than we ever realized. But that doesnt make the movie any less meaningful or cogent. In fact, it may make it even more valuable, especially in light of these current, deeply divided times in which longstanding norms of institutional democracy are being put through the wringer both domestically and abroad. Taylor (Zizek!, Examined Life) thus asks us to reexamine ancient and more recent history in an effort to understand how we ended up with a world in which, its posited here, the social body is being sawed apart and democracy has been co-opted by corporations and special-interest groups. Hint: It didnt happen overnight. Advertisement Taylor and her cameras travel the globe, focusing largely on the U.S. and Greece, in a kind of philosophical search for truths if not the truth about democracy, which the filmmaker dubs an ideal and a reality, a rousing aspiration and a devastating disappointment. The film, which holds together quite well even if its not that specifically structured, bears out Taylors assessment in captivating and persuasive fashion. Woven throughout the movie, as a running commentary, is Taylors stop in Siena, Italy, for a visit with researcher-activist-educator Silvia Federici, who offers docent-like illumination of the 14thcentury fresco The Allegory of Good and Bad Government. This colorful, heavily symbolic civic mural by Ambrogio Lorenzetti contrasts themes of justice and tyranny in ways that disturbingly resonate today. That modern banking originated in Italy adds a vital dimension to Federicis articulate dissection. Trips to Raleigh, N.C., and Miami net an array of vivid, at times powerful thoughts on such topics as equality, economic disparity, classism and responsibility from such observers as pastor-activist Rev. William J. Barber II (he also founded the Moral Mondays movement), who gives a barn-burner of a rally speech; longtime, now-retired North Carolina General Assembly member Henry M. Mickey Michaux Jr.; a group of emergency room doctors; a hair cutter and ex-con who imparts smart, unique perspective from his time behind bars; a Guatemalan seamstress who tears up over President Trumps attitude toward immigrants; and a group of public school students with fairness on their minds. Elsewhere, were treated to the soaring, scholarly stylings of activist-philosopher (and author of 2004s Democracy Matters) Cornel West; UC Berkeley professor and political theorist Wendy Browns imposing intellectualism; and an exciting lecture by famed social justice advocate Angela Davis, each of whom deliver prismatic takes on the notion of democracy. Taylor, often seen here on camera in interview mode, also devotes a stirring amount of time to her journey to Greece (home to that cradle of democracy Athens), wherein she movingly covers Syrian and other Middle Eastern refugees arriving on the countrys shores (including gripping memories from a young Syrian woman) as well as the effects of the nations recent debt crisis. There are also intriguing chats with former Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou; Course to Freedom political party chief Zoe Konstantopoulou; and Efimia Karakantza, an assistant professor of ancient Greek literature. And lets not forget the prescient quotes from seminal Greek philosopher Platos Socratic dialogue The Republic that are provocatively peppered throughout the film. It all adds up to a kaleidoscopic, somewhat random, yet always involving approach to a major concept that, despite the wealth and breadth of Taylors offerings here, feels like just the first step in surveying anew where democracy stands and falls in our present universe. But what a crucial first step it is. ------------- What is Democracy? In English, Greek, Arabic and Spanish with English subtitles Not rated Running time: 1 hour, 47 minutes. Playing: Starts Feb. 22, Laemmle Music Hall, Beverly Hills; Feb. 25-26 only, Laemmle Royal, West Los Angeles; Laemmle Town Center 5, Encino; Laemmle Playhouse 7, Pasadena ------------ See the most-read stories in Entertainment this hour Movie Trailers calendar@latimes.com @LATimesMovies San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi, known for his battles for criminal justice reform and his role in a high-profile case of an accused murderer in the country illegally, died of an accidental overdose of cocaine and alcohol, the citys medical examiner reported Friday. Cardiovascular disease was a contributing factor in Adachis death last month at 59. Local political leaders at the time celebrated the former candidate for San Francisco mayor as a champion of people who otherwise had no voice in the criminal justice system. Adachi oversaw the successful defense of a Mexican immigrant in the country illegally who was charged in the 2015 shooting death of Kate Steinle on a popular San Francisco pier. The killing fueled a national debate about immigration because the defendant, Jose Ines Garcia Zarate, had been deported five times and was freed from custody under so-called sanctuary laws. He argued that the gun had accidentally discharged and that Steinle was struck when the bullet ricocheted. Zarate was acquitted of the murder charge but found guilty of felony gun possession. Advertisement Fridays medical examiner report said the cause of Adachis death was acute mixed drug toxicity, combined with his heart condition. Adachi had collapsed at a Telegraph Hill apartment after he dined with a friend and started having trouble breathing, according to his office. He died in a hospital. A 2010 profile in the San Francisco Chronicle highlighted Adachis fight for a ballot proposition that would have required city employees to pay more toward their pensions. The measure lost. The following year, Adachi made an unsuccessful bid for mayor. Earlier this week, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors proposed renaming a street Jeff Adachi Way to honor his contributions to the city. The salty marine air was coming off the bay as we crossed the grounds of San Quentin State Prison just before midnight and entered the building that houses the death chamber. It was December 2005, and I was about to witness an execution. Stanley Tookie Williams, one of the early leaders of L.A.s Crips gang, was to be put to death by lethal injection. I was one of three dozen people who assembled in a small amphitheater. Some knew Williams; others knew the four people Williams had shotgunned to death. I was there because members of the media are invited to bear witness. Curtains separated us from the chamber, as if we were awaiting a show. And then they were pulled open to reveal the man who was about to die. Advertisement The attendants had trouble pricking a vein for the lethal injection. They kept trying and Williams grew exasperated. Finally, success. He turned to look at each of us, through the window, before closing his eyes. I left the prison thinking I was fine, but for weeks after, Id find myself restless and disturbed by what I had seen. I had no soft spot for Williams. But the sight of a man being executed by the state in a choreographed ceremony, because we deem murder a heinous crime, still haunts me. READ MORE: Charles Manson, Rose Bird, Caryl Chessman and Californias wrenching death penalty debate That was the first thing I thought about when I began reading an email I received on the day California Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered a moratorium on the death penalty, I am a Los Angeles physician whose three children were murdered by their mother on November 22, 1999, wrote Dr. Xavier Caro, who asked if I cared to hear why he so objected to what Newsom had done. The headline-grabbing case was a shocker in many ways. Caro was a prominent rheumatologist; his wife, Socorro, was a well-known mom in the familys Ventura County community. But the couples marriage was falling apart, and Caro returned home from his office in the San Fernando Valley late one evening to discover a horrific scene. As he testified in court, Caro found three of the couples sons Joey, 11; Michael, 8; and Christopher, 5 dead from gunshot wounds. His wife lay bleeding on the floor, still alive after an apparent suicide attempt. Their fourth child, a toddler, was unharmed. At trial, the defense argued that Socorro Caro was not the killer but a victim of a sinister plot by her husband to frame her for crimes he had committed. The jury didnt buy it, nor did it buy a defense of not guilty by reason of insanity. Socorro Caro, who recovered from her wounds but claimed she could not remember the events of that night, was convicted of murdering her children with a Smith & Wesson revolver and sentenced to death. She has been in prison ever since. Socorro Caro is comforted by her attorneys Nicholas Beeson, left, and Jean Farley after a brief outburst directed at her husband, Xavier Caro, during her sentencing for the murder of three of their children. (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times) In his email to me, Caro said he has been recovering gradually in the two decades since the murders and has achieved a modicum of peace. But he was shaken by Newsoms announcement, and disappointed that his ex-wife might not ever have to take responsibility for what she did by having her sentence carried out. To some, Newsoms decision was heroic, even though only the courts or a statewide ballot initiative could permanently end the death penalty in California. To others, like Caro, the governors action subverted the will of voters, who have repeatedly rejected measures to end public executions. Despite the impact of my visit to San Quentin in 2005, I honestly dont know how Id feel about the death penalty if I were in the shoes of someone like Dr. Caro. I know Id be filled with rage, anger, hatred. I dont know what I would do with those emotions, or what Id want someone else to do. So I decided to hear what Caro had to say. His Northridge office is filled with photos of his family, including the sons he lost. Caro smiles when he mentions that the one son who was not killed, now 20, is an aspiring artist. The doctor got married again but is going through a divorce at the moment. READ MORE: These are the 737 inmates on Californias death row Caro said he doesnt recall having strong feelings about the death penalty before the murder of his children, but called himself a fairly conservative guy before and after the crime. I believe in fairly strict adherence to the law, and I have great respect for the law. Thats the way I was raised, and its the way I raised my children, he said. Caro is a Catholic, and I pointed out that the church takes a different view of the death penalty than he does. The dignity of the person is not lost even if he has committed the worst of crimes, Pope Francis has said. No one can take his life and deprive him of the opportunity to embrace again the community he hurt and made suffer. Caro said he respects the churchs position. But they would have to recognize that I am a sentient being, able to come to my own opinion. Caro, whose family roots are in Mexico, is well aware of all the arguments against the death penalty, and he doesnt outright dismiss any of them. He knows that people of color dominate death rows in the United States, which might suggest racism, societal divides and a tilted criminal justice system. He acknowledges the possibility that sometimes innocent people are executed. And he has seen firsthand that the death penalty legal process is slow and expensive. None of that clouds Caros recollection of what happened on Nov. 22, 1999, and what kind of punishment it deserves. He told me he cant say the death penalty is appropriately applied in every case, but he believes it was in the killing of his children. Ventura County sheriffs vehicles at the scene of a triple homicide in the Santa Rosa Valley home of the Caro family. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times) I told Caro about my trip to San Quentin, and how it solidified my own opposition to the death penalty. But I told him I respected his view. For me, life in prison without the chance of parole seems in some ways a harsher sentence than the early escape that death brings. Caro doesnt see it that way. He told me that after the crime but before his ex-wife was convicted, he wanted to see for himself what her life might look like. A defense attorney arranged for him to visit the womens prison in Chowchilla, where she was ultimately sent. I didnt ask, nor did they offer, to show me death row. But I got to see the general population area and to be honest with you, I saw it as a summer camp with a fence around it, Caro said. From all my contemplation and upbringing and my belief system, it didnt seem like punishment at all. I realize there would be those who disagree with me, but thats just how I felt, and Im not going to deny that. Support for the death penalty among victims and their families is not uncommon, but there are exceptions. Beth Webb, whose sister was one of eight people killed in Seal Beach in 2011 by a gunman involved in a custody dispute with his ex-wife, told me she wouldnt judge Caro or anyone who has lost a loved one to violence. Webb opposed the death penalty before her sisters death, and she didnt change her view afterward. Still, she said, there were times when she hoped her sisters killer would die in prison, where he was sentenced to life. Beth Webb of Huntington Beach, who met with Gov. Gavin Newsom, supports his moratorium on the death penalty. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) That feeling could have destroyed me, I believe, and I knew it wasnt who I am. It took a conscious effort to stop thinking about him and to stop hating him and to think Im better than he was at the worst moment in his life, Webb said. Since her sisters killing, Webb has become a board member of Death Penalty Focus, which advocates for its abolition. Dr. Caro, on the other hand, said he sees a duty, in a society of laws, to send a clear message. Those who take a life should, in his opinion, pay with their own. Please, this fellow who killed 50 people in New Zealand, is there anyone who believes he should have life in prison without possibility of parole? Well, there are, Im sure. But Im not one of them, Caro said. That is a heinous crime, so far beyond the pale its a no-brainer. And yet, when I checked after our interview, New Zealand is one of the more than 100 countries that have no death penalty. When I asked Caro why he thought his ex-wife killed their children, he paused before answering. This is speculative, he said, but my sense is that she had a borderline personality disorder. But is it appropriate for us to execute people who might have some form of mental illness? Well, my understanding of the law is that its not a question of whether youre mentally ill or have a personality disorder, Caro said. Its a question of whether you know right from wrong when youre taking another persons life. Thats a complicated matter, and one like the death penalty people will always disagree on. Caro said that though he disagrees with his church on the death penalty, his faith works for him in other ways. I look forward to seeing my children again someday, he said. Get more of Steve Lopezs work and follow him on Twitter @LATstevelopez Heather Repenning officially won the right Friday to face front-runner Jackie Goldberg in a May runoff for a pivotal seat on the Los Angeles Board of Education. Repenning made it on the ballot after finishing 31 votes over Graciela Ortiz, county officials announced. Ortiz has the right to challenge the results by paying for a recount. In the March 5 primary, Goldberg was the clear leader, winning 48.2% of the vote on a ballot with 10 candidates. After the initial count on election night, Ortiz was narrowly ahead but Repenning edged above her as officials tallied mail-in and provisional ballots. Advertisement In the end, Goldberg had nearly 16,000 votes while Repenning had 4,341 (13.13%) and Ortiz 4,310 (13.03%). Ortiz will have five days, starting Saturday, to request a recount. A recount could then begin as soon as March 30. The cost is about $5,000 per day, which could be a challenge for Ortiz. Her campaign has reported being more than $53,000 in debt, according to the latest filings with the city. District 5 covers neighborhoods north of downtown and then cuts a narrow path east of downtown to the cities of southeast L.A. County. Goldberg is a former longtime teacher who previously served on the school board for eight years and subsequently won election to the L.A. City Council and state Legislature. Repenning, a longtime senior aide to L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti, resigned as a city publics works commissioner to run for office. Ortiz is a school counselor and also an elected council member in the city of Huntington Park, which is within the L.A. school system. Heather Repenning prevailed in a tight race for second place and will make the runoff for a school board seat. (John McCoy / For The Times) The school board has been split on key issues, including how to deal with the growing number of privately operated charter schools, which compete with district schools for students. Board members also have been divided on how to deal with serious budget problems, but they have united behind a June parcel tax that could raise about $500 million a year for the nations second-largest school system. Repenning and Goldberg both support the measure. Goldbergs backers include the teachers union, United Teachers Los Angeles, which spent about $670,000 on her behalf. Local 99 of Service Employees International Union, which represents most non-teaching district employees, spent nearly $1 million on behalf of Repenning. Local 99s efforts were boosted by a $100,000 election day donation from local philanthropist Eli Broad. howard.blume@latimes.com @howardblume Three months into the Department of Homeland Securitys program that requires asylum-seeking migrants wait in Mexico until their U.S. immigration hearings, observers said Friday that the policy may actually be encouraging illegal border crossings. This past week, migrants rushed the border at least four times at Playas de Tijuana, many of them saying they were motivated by not wanting to wait in Mexico. A Customs and Border Protection official said migrants who cross the border illegally are not being returned to Mexico while they seek asylum. Instead, they are taken into custody, where they eventually get to wait in the United States, sometimes up to three or four years until their asylum hearings before an American immigration judge. Why would I spend three years here in Tijuana when I could be in the United States? asked Jeydi Fuentes Lopez Montes, a 29-year-old mother from Honduras traveling with a 1-year-old child. I know there is work here in Tijuana, but isnt the work better over there? Advertisement Fuentes said she went to Tijuana planning to wait in line to ask for asylum, but she said that when she learned the list to get an initial appointment with U.S. officials could take several months, she decided to try to find another way into the U.S. Legal experts say a judge is not allowed to deny a persons asylum request based solely on whether he or she entered the country legally or illegally. Samuel Rodriguez Guzman, from El Salvador, arrived in Tijuana last week. He said he went to the beach Thursday after hearing about more people successfully entering the U.S. illegally, and seeing on the news people getting through the border infrastructure at Playas. Im trying whatever way I can to immigrate to the United States, Rodriguez said. I had problems with the gangs in my country and my father did, too. They want to kill us. When we get there to the United States, they have to respect our human rights to ask for asylum, right? Migrants enter the U.S. through a gap in the border fence at Tijuanas Friendship Park. Alan Bersin, the former commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, said there is no coordinated system between the Mexican government and the U.S. to accept large numbers of migrants returned to Tijuana. So far, fewer than 300 people have been returned to Mexico under the program. Its an incompetent program, said Bersin, adding that people who cross illegally should be returned to Mexico in the same numbers as those who wait for months in line for their turn to cross legally. This policy has a chance of succeeding as a deterrent, he said. But [Mexican President Andres Manuel] Lopez-Obrador is trying to avoid a fight with Trump so he says yes to everything but does nothing. This week and last, migrants have been climbing through holes in border fencing at Playas or climbing over the 15-foot-high fence. On March 13, some people slipped through a hole in the border fencing near the beach. One of the men, who was seen in a video running down the beach carrying a small child while a border agent chased him, provided updates via WhatsApp to several people in his group and some witnesses. He said he was not apprehended and made it to Los Angeles. A group of about 60 people who crossed on March 14 included men, women and children, most of whom said they were from Honduras. Customs and Border Protection spokesman Ralph DeSio said 52 people from that group were arrested. Border officials also arrested 23 people from Honduras and one from Guatemala on Tuesday after they scaled the fence near the beach. Then Thursday, activity at the border intensified as border agents and migrants clashed. Two migrants and several witnesses said agents shot pepper spray across the fence and into their eyes. During the incident, one man climbed the fence and dropped into the U.S. before he was detained by border agents. DeSio said Customs and Border Protection is averaging 167 arrests a day in the San Diego County area of responsibility, which stretches east to past Jacumba. Every arrest in San Diego Sector is investigated. Every breach in San Diego County is a concern whether its near Imperial Beach or in Jacumba, DeSio said in a written statement. Compromises in our fence are common due to our aging infrastructure. Efforts are made to repair breaches or compromises in a timely manner. On Friday, another hole big enough for people to climb through was visible at the base of the border fence at Playas, and migrants said they planned to return Saturday to try to climb through again. Really, were tired of fighting because we just want to cross and ask for asylum. Were not rude. We are allowed to come here and ask for asylum, said Jose Reinera, a Honduran migrant who climbed up on top of the fence at Las Playas on Thursday. Reinera said he turned back and climbed back down on the Mexican side of the border when he realized his wife and children would not be able to make the climb. Wendy Fry writes for the San Diego Union-Tribune. A top lawyer in Los Angeles City Atty. Mike Feuers office who was helping oversee litigation regarding the 2013 Department of Water and Power billing debacle has resigned, the office said. Chief Assistant City Atty. Thomas Peters stepped down Friday after The Times questioned Feuers office about outside income that Peters reported. In city disclosure forms reviewed by The Times, Peters reported in 2017 that he received more than $100,000 in referral income from the law office of Anthony M. DeMarco. He also reported receiving two separate payments of between $10,000 and $100,000 from two law firms Anthony M. DeMarco and Panish, Shea and Boyle for referral fees in 2018. The city attorneys office handled several lawsuits filed against the city by Panish, Shea and Boyle in recent years. Referral fees are common in the legal world. Attorneys receive the fees for passing on a case to another attorney. Depending on how long a case is in court, the referring lawyer may be paid years after making the referral. Advertisement The city attorneys office said Feuer was not aware of Peters referral fees. When [The Times] raised these issues ... I brought them to Mr. Feuers attention who had not been previously apprised of them, spokesman Rob Wilcox said in a statement to The Times. Mr. Peters has resigned. This is now a personnel matter and I cannot discuss it further. Peters didnt respond to an email and could not be reached by phone. It appears the referral fees are not connected to the citys lawsuit over the DWP billing issues. Peters departure marks another tumultuous episode for Feuers office, which is engaged in a high-profile legal fight stemming from the DWP billing fiasco, in which hundreds of thousands of customers were overcharged. Peters, chief of the civil litigation branch in Feuers office, was an attorney on the citys ongoing lawsuit against consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers, which the city blames for causing the billing errors. PricewaterhouseCoopers alleges Feuers office took part in a collusive scheme to quickly settle a lawsuit brought by ratepayers against the city over the billing errors, which Feuers office denies. A former plaintiffs trial attorney, Peters joined Feuers office in 2014 and handled the bulk of the claims or lawsuits filed against or brought by the city, according to the city attorneys offices website. He earned a city salary of $258,460, according to the citys personnel department. An attorney for Panish, Shea and Boyle declined to comment about the fees paid to Peters, citing a possible conflict of client-attorney privilege. Panish, Shea and Boyle has sued the city on behalf of plaintiffs several times in recent years. In some cases, Peters name appeared on court documents defending the city in those lawsuits and on city documents related to the cases. The Times couldnt determine what role, if any, he played in those lawsuits. DeMarco told The Times that the fees he paid Peters are from cases dating back several years, before Peters started working for the city attorneys office. He also said his firm hasnt had any recent cases involving the city. Wilcox said the city attorneys office has no internal policy related specifically to the acceptance of referral fees. Lawyers at City Hall often recuse themselves from cases if they have a conflict of interest or if there is the appearance of one. Several years ago, Feuer removed himself from a lawsuit involving the citys collection of hotel taxes because he once worked for a law firm that represented a defendant in the case. The city attorney also walled himself off from a DWP public records lawsuit, which was filed to prevent the names and addresses of people who benefited from a turf removal rebate program from being released to the San Diego-Union Tribune, a sister publication of the Los Angeles Times. Feuer obtained a rebate through the program, his office said at the time. Peters is the third attorney to depart the citys case against PricewaterhouseCoopers. Earlier this month, Paul Paradis, an outside attorney hired by Feuers office, left the case and lost his city contracts amid revelations that he represented the plaintiff who later filed a class-action lawsuit against the city over the billing errors. Paul Kiesel, another outside attorney hired by the city, also left. Feuers office has launched an ethics investigation into issues surrounding the settlement of that case and two no-bid contracts Paradis received from the DWP totaling $36 million. The DWPs billing meltdown occurred in 2013 as the agency launched a replacement for its antiquated billing system. Antwon Jones, a Van Nuys resident who received a $1,374 electric bill from the utility, was the lead plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit against the city. A settlement with Jones was announced a few months later. Around the time Jones filed his lawsuit, the city sued PricewaterhouseCoopers, accusing the consulting firm of misrepresenting its ability to implement the billing system. PricewaterhouseCoopers lawyers now allege that city attorneys took part in a scheme that allowed the city to hand pick the plaintiff and his lawyer and clear the way for a settlement that was reached without a full public airing of the issues. At the hearing this month, a judge asked Jones attorney, Jack Landskroner, if any referral fees had been paid to Paradis. Landskroner deferred to his lawyer, Mark Drooks, who cited his clients 5th Amendment protections against self-incrimination and declined to answer the judges question. At the heart of the conflict of interest allegation is a complaint drafted in January 2015 in Jones vs. PricewaterhouseCoopers identifying Paradis and Kiesel as Jones attorneys. (Kiesel denies he was ever retained as Jones attorney.) Peters testified in a deposition in September that, while he was weighing the citys legal options in the billing fiasco, he instructed Paradis to draft the complaint. Peters acknowledged that the draft was circulated among DWP officials and city attorneys, but said it was never intended to be filed in court. I directed it be created as a thought experiment, Peters testified. Times staff writer Kim Christensen contributed to this report. dakota.smith@latimes.com Twitter: @dakotacdsmith Apparently surprising his own secretary of State, President Trump tweeted on Thursday that it was time for the United States to fully recognize Israels sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability. Trumps tweet instantly reversed a decades-old and bipartisan U.S. policy of withholding recognition of Israels annexation of the heights, which it captured from Syria in the 1967 Arab-Israeli war. Although Trump justified the new policy by pointing to Israels security needs, Israel already controls the territory and U.S. recognition of its claim doesnt alter that situation. But the switch could undermine the already poor prospects for a peace plan that Trumps son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner is reportedly incubating. If what you wanted to do was to present a plan that is likely to succeed, this is not a step that you would take, Dennis Ross, a former U.S. envoy to the Middle East, told the New York Times. Advertisement Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute Finally, as with Trumps trashing of the Iran nuclear agreement, the change of policy on the Golan Heights is estranging the U.S. from its European allies. After Trumps announcement, both Germany and the United Kingdom made it clear that they continue to regard the Golan Heights as Syrian territory occupied by Israel. For Trump such objections dont seem to matter. He has made it clear that he cares little for international agreements, the subtleties of diplomacy or the concerns of Americas European allies. He does attach importance to fulfilling campaign promises and cultivating leaders he likes or admires. One of those leaders is North Koreas Kim Jong Un. The White House cited Trumps affection for Kim on Friday in explaining why the president had tweeted that he was withdrawing sanctions against North Korea announced the day before by the Treasury Department. Trump is also fond of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a leader he has described as tough, smart and strong. The feeling is mutual. After Trump announced that he would recognize Israels claim to the Golan Heights, Netanyahu took to Twitter to gush that President Trump has just made history. Trump has denied that he changed U.S. policy on the Golan Heights in order to help Netanyahu in his reelection campaign. I would imagine the other side, whoevers against him, is also in favor of what I just did, Trump said. Still, Netanyahu can boast to the Israeli electorate that his close relationship with Trump has led to changes in U.S. policy from the repudiation of the Iran agreement to the moving of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem to the recognition of Israeli claims to the Golan Heights. As for the professional U.S. diplomats who have struggled for years with the complexities of Middle East diplomacy, they have no choice but to adjust to the whimsical decision-making of this president. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook Tim Johnson hasnt stopped feeling the Bern. A committed Bernie Sanders acolyte since 2016, Johnson was at a UCLA labor strike on Wednesday to watch the senator make his first California appearance as a 2020 presidential candidate. Hes taking part in Sanders rallies this weekend as well. For the record: An earlier version of this story said that Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) was a high-profile Sanders backer in 2016. Lee did not endorse in the Democratic primary in 2016. Sanders campaigned for Lee in 2018. Its like our wildest dream came true, Johnson said of Sanders second presidential bid. Its actually happening. This time, however, both Johnsons favorite candidate and his home state enjoy new prominence. Sanders is a Democratic front-runner, not an improbable insurgent. And California will not be the place of a symbolic last stand, as it was for Sanders before, but key territory to mine delegates and build momentum. Advertisement Its radically different, said Ben Tulchin, Sanders San Francisco-based campaign pollster. With its earlier primary on March 3 and mail ballots going out a month prior California is considered by the Sanders campaign to be among the crucial first five, lumping the Golden State in with traditional early nominating contests in Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada. By holding successive rallies this weekend in San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco, Sanders is signaling plans to mount an aggressive bid for California, capitalizing on his demonstrated fundraising prowess and cadre of devoted followers such as Johnson. A midday rally in downtown Los Angeles Grand Park had the feel of a laid-back family reunion, with attendees being greeted by a row of volunteers offering high-fives for Bernie. How Californias early primary illustrates the states political inferiority complex Sanders also has the advantage of being the only candidate in the burgeoning Democratic field to have run a presidential campaign in California before, though one of his opponents, Sen. Kamala Harris, does have the benefit of having won three statewide races. There is no doubt he has a base here of some size that is highly committed to Bernie Sanders, said Garry South, a veteran Democratic strategist based in Los Angeles. But, he cautioned, I dont think he can count on getting every single vote he got in 2016. Hes going to have to keep a fair proportion of those voters in the fold while reaching out to new voters. For many in the Sanders camp, the 2016 California primary outcome still stings. The democratic socialist and independent senator had engineered his long-shot bid into a protracted contest with Hillary Clinton and saw Californias June primary as an eleventh-hour attempt to claim momentum and persuade party insiders to side with him. The delegate chase, which Sanders had trailed, came to an abrupt end the night before the vote, when the Associated Press said Clinton had won enough support to clinch the nomination. The former secretary of State beat Sanders, 53% to 46%. By the time we reached California, we had greatly diminished resources, said Jeff Weaver, Sanders 2016 campaign manager who is now a senior advisor to the senator. We did not have the intensive statewide field effort I think you will see us launching. Weaver predicted that this time tens and tens of millions will go toward television, radio and other paid media in the state. Californians have been key to building up Sanders coffers; his campaign said nearly 110,000 donors from the state had given more than $2.6 million so far. But the playing field is now substantially different. Sanders is up against a larger pool of candidates, many of whom have embraced the progressive themes of income inequality and economic injustice, as well as specific policies such as Medicare for all, that made Sanders a singular figure in 2016. Bernie Sanders decries anti-Muslim violence in mosque visit and downtown L.A. rally Another challenge may be Democratic voters desire to elevate a new generation of leaders, which could cut against the 77-year-old senator. Candidates run the risk of feeling stale, South said, recalling that in 2004, then-Sen. Joe Lieberman failed to win support for his presidential bid from people who had avidly backed the Connecticut Democrat in 2000 as Al Gores vice presidential pick. Four years later, it was time for a new face, said South, who worked on the Lieberman campaign. MJ Sandhe, an animator from Los Angeles, still sounds wistful in recalling his work as a super volunteer for Sanders first run. We would wake up at 4 or 5 in the morning. I was getting the least amount of sleep ever, said Sandhe, 30. But it was so exciting. Sandhe is not sure whether hell back Sanders again. Hes intrigued by Andrew Yang, a venture capitalist whose campaign is centered on a universal basic income of $1,000 a month for every American adult. Sandhe fears Sanders is missing the chance to tinker with his message and expand his appeal. Im just worried were going to be repeating the stump speeches we had in 2016, Sandhe said. MacKenzie Grow also voted for Sanders in 2016. The 24-year-old UCLA graduate student said she was waiting to hear more from the candidates about how they will confront racial inequality. Im not blown away by anyone yet, Grow said. Sensitive to the perception that he appeals primarily to white male Bernie Bros, Sanders has made an effort to talk more about his biography, including his work in the civil rights movement and his familys immigrant roots. One of the reason hes telling his personal story about his family coming over from Poland after being persecuted is to apply more context and a different perspective, Tulchin said, noting that Latino and Asian American immigrants could relate. Perhaps the stiffest competition to Sanders in the state so far is from Harris, who launched her campaign in Oakland and has rolled out a steady stream of endorsements from her fellow California politicians. Among the most notable is Oakland Rep. Barbara Lee, whom Sanders campaigned for in 2018, who signed on early as a co-chair of Harris California campaign. But true believers like Johnson, a 33-year-old financial consultant from Santa Ana, are certain the Golden State will be a sure thing for Sanders. I see all these other candidates splitting up their votes and Bernie being a landslide front-runner, Johnson said. I think the primary is going to be a walk in the park for him. Bernie Sanders kicked off the first of three rallies in California on Friday evening, promising to complete what he began three years ago with his improbable bid for the Democratic presidential nomination. Drawing a crowd of thousands to downtowns Waterfront Park, many of whom supported his 2016 run, Sanders laid out a theme of justice that included economic equality, as well as racial, ethnic and religious unity. Thank you for being part of a campaign which is not only going to carry California, which is going to win the Democratic nomination, which is not only going to defeat Donald Trump, the most dangerous president in the modern history of our country but with your help we are going to transform this country, said Sanders, an independent, who jumped into the 2020 presidential race a month ago. The Vermont senator, who is famously disciplined in staying on message, deviated from his stump speech to acknowledge the news that special counsel Robert S. Mueller III completed his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Advertisement It is absolutely imperative that the Trump administration make that full report public as soon as possible, Sanders said to applause. Nobody, including the president of the United States, is above the law. The American people have a right to know. Sanders then mourned the mass shooting of Islamic worshipers last week at two New Zealand mosques. He plans to visit with faith leaders at the Islamic Center of Southern California on Saturday morning. Otherwise, Sanders hewed closely to the familiar themes of his 2016 campaign, calling for Medicare for All and a $15-an-hour federal minimum wage. The speech had a distinctly triumphant tone as Sanders recalled how his positions used to be seen as outside the political mainstream. Those ideas that we talked about four years ago that seemed so very radical well today, virtually all of those ideas are supported by a majority of the American people, said Sanders, 77. He added that Democratic presidential candidates have hopped on board as well. It turns out that justice is not such a radical idea! he said. Sanders also relished lacing into the president, saying Trump embarrasses us every day and mocked him as an out-of-touch child of privilege. The anti-Trump rhetoric won cheers from the crowd, but Sanders emphasized his campaign was not just about defeating Trump but taking on Wall Street, insurance companies and drug manufacturers that control the economic and political life of our nation. The promise of political revolution, which many in the crowd said drew them to Sanders 2016 campaign, was a bigger draw than the focus on Trump for some attendees. Id rather hear Bernie talk about how hes going to change the country, rather than waste any time on Trump, said Al Meier, a 76-year-old retired teacher from El Cajon. The San Diego gathering marks the first large-scale rally in California for Sanders as a 2020 presidential candidate. Earlier this week, Sanders spoke in support of striking research and technical workers at UCLA, offering an abbreviated riff on the issues that defined his political brand: aligning with organized labor, lambasting corporate employers and pledging sweeping social programs such as tuition-free college. Sanders will host a rally at Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday afternoon and another in San Francisco midday Sunday. The end of a sprawling investigation that has riveted the nation usually calls for a news conference from the person in charge, but Robert S. Mueller III chose a different approach Friday. The special counsel sent a security officer to the Justice Department to deliver his long-awaited final report on the Russia case, then joined his wife and another couple for a quiet dinner in a favorite neighborhood restaurant. With no photographers or TV cameras in sight, they sat in a secluded booth as cable news and social media exploded with speculation and accusations. It was a fitting conclusion for the man whose tenure as the least talkative yet most talked-about public figure in Washington is drawing to a close. Advertisement Mueller, 74, is expected to step down as special counsel in the coming days, and only a skeleton crew is left in the office at this point. His report, which remains confidential for now, caps nearly two years of investigating Russian political interference, any potential conspiracy with Donald Trumps campaign and whether the president obstructed justice. During that time, Mueller was practically a ghost. Sometimes a snapshot would emerge of him sitting down at an Apple store, or coincidentally waiting for a flight at the same airport gate as Donald Trump Jr. Otherwise he was at most a blurry figure, captured behind his car window as he pulled up to the special counsels office in the early mornings. His name often appeared at the bottom of indictments and court filings all told, 34 people were charged but his subordinates did the talking during courtroom proceedings. Muellers only public comment has been a single sentence, when he was appointed as special counsel nearly two years ago in May 2017, and the statement was as plain as the white shirts that hes made his official uniform. I accept this responsibility and will discharge it to the best of my ability, Mueller said. He issued no statement on Friday when he submitted his report. Trump often raged at Muellers work, repeatedly calling the Russia investigation a witch hunt and describing him as a conflicted prosecutor gone rogue. But even the president, a former reality television star, would likely give his chief antagonist one of his favorite compliments that Mueller was from central casting. Muellers history of public service, reticence and rectitude provided a sharp contrast to Trumps life of tabloid shenanigans, bombast and garish wealth. A Princeton University graduate, Mueller volunteered for the Marines and served as an infantry officer in the Vietnam War, receiving a Bronze Star for valor and a Purple Heart after being shot in the leg. He became a federal prosecutor after the war and rose through the ranks at the Justice Department. Eventually he served for a dozen years as FBI director under presidents of both parties, George W. Bush and Barack Obama, after Obama and Congress agreed to a special law to extend Muellers term beyond the 10-year limit. Mueller was working in private practice when Trump fired his successor as FBI director, James B. Comey, on May 9, 2017. In a move to preserve the independence of the Russia investigation, Deputy Atty. Gen. Rod Rosenstein appointed Mueller to serve as special counsel. President Trump speaks to the media as he leaves the White House bound for his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on March 22. (Jim Lo Scalzo / EPA/Shutterstock) Since then, Muellers silence has been the counterweight to Trumps blizzard of Twitter screeds, and the special counsels office earned a reputation as the rare leak-proof operation in Washington. Muellers reserve was also a marked shift from two of the highest profile special prosecutors of the past generation Lawrence E. Walsh, who spent seven years examining the Iran-Contra scandal of the Reagan administration, and Kenneth W. Starr, whose investigation of Bill Clinton and his White House lasted four years. Starr talked publicly about his work, at one point holding a widely televised, impromptu news conference at the end of his suburban Washington driveway. Clinton allies accused Starrs prosecutors, who included Brett M. Kavanaugh, now a Supreme Court justice, of routinely leaking secret grand jury testimony in an effort to force the president to resign. The investigation ultimately led the House to impeach Clinton, who was then acquitted by the Senate. Starr consistently denied any improper actions. But in 1998, as the Clinton impeachment proceedings were taking place, U.S. District Judge Norma Holloway Johnson ruled that members of his staff had engaged in serious and repetitive violations of grand jury secrecy rules. Johnson threatened contempt proceedings against Starr staffers in one case, but an appeals court overturned that portion of her order, ruling that she had applied too strict a standard and that the way Starrs staff dealt with the press was troubling but not illegal. A special master who investigated the leak allegations wrote a report of his findings that was never released and remains under seal. In a recent CNN interview, Starr defended his public comments about the case and said he thought Muellers approach in declining to talk publicly was not wise. I just have a different perspective, Starr said. I think its important to provide public information thats appropriate. Kennetth Starr is swarmed by the media in 1998 while investigating President Bill Clinton, a scene that hasnt been repeated by special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. (Ken Cedeno / Knight-Ridder Tribune) Walsh investigated the Iran-Contra scandal, in which Reagan administration officials facilitated the sale of arms to Iran to fund the right-wing Nicaraguan rebel group known as Contras at a time when U.S support for the rebels was forbidden by law. Walsh ultimately indicted 14 people, winning 11 convictions. Several of the convictions were overturned on appeal. And at the end of his presidency, George H.W. Bush, who was vice president at the time the scandal unfolded, pardoned the rest of those convicted, including the secretary of Defense at the time of the scandal, Caspar Weinberger. Walsh, whose investigation was ongoing at that point, publicly criticized Bush for his action, holding a news conference in which he said that the Iran-Contra cover-up, which has continued for more than six years, has now been completed. In his final news conference several months later, at which Walsh released a 566-page report and 785 pages of supporting documents, he said Bush and other Reagan administration officials had thwarted his investigation. Reagan, in a statement at the time, said Walsh had become vindictive and had used his office to harass individuals and otherwise to damage the lives of the persons he was given license to investigate. Both Walsh and Starr served under an independent counsel statute that expired in 1999. That statute gave them more freedom than Mueller, who is supervised by the Justice Department, headed by Trump appointees. But Muellers tight-lipped approach still stands out in a city packed with people of supersized egos and camera-ready ambitions. Its unclear whether Mueller will be able to maintain his silence in the coming weeks and months. Atty. Gen. William Barr is expected to provide Congress with a summary of the special counsels conclusions as soon as this weekend, but thats unlikely to satisfy House Democrats who are eager for a more complete and public picture. Some have already talked about bringing Mueller to Capitol Hill to testify. Muellers restraint undoubtedly helped inoculate him from some criticism from Trumps allies, who were quick to criticize any whiff of political bias from investigators. They mostly targeted secondary figures instead, perhaps a recognition that they were unlikely to tarnish the special counsel himself. House Republicans focused their ire on Peter Strzok, a former FBI agent, and Lisa Page, a former FBI lawyer, who exchanged anti-Trump text messages while working at the agency during the 2016 campaign. Mueller removed Strzok from the special counsels office when the messages came to light, but critics said Strzoks involvement tainted the probe. Trumps lawyer, former New York Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani, focused on Muellers prosecutors, particularly top deputy Andrew Weissmann. Giuliani described Weissmann as a complete scoundrel in a CNN interview last summer. Mueller himself managed to win some unlikely praise from the presidents camp, including from Abbe Lowell, a lawyer for Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law and White House advisor. During a recent panel discussion, Lowell said, I dont know of a special counsel whos done it better. Staff writer Noah Bierman contributed to this report. Almost 150 volunteers fanned across Burbank on Tuesday night, walking down alleys and peering behind train tracks to count homeless people in an effort to get a snapshot of an issue that has been deemed a growing crisis by some city officials. Coordinated by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, the count marked the launch of a three-day exercise throughout Los Angeles County that gives the public agency a comprehensive indication of how many homeless people are living in different parts of the county, allowing it to better direct its resources, including money and personnel. Last year, the count found that nearly 58,000 homeless people were living in the county, with 7,459 of them in the San Fernando Valley. Youve got to define an issue before you can get your arms around it, said Brian Wren, a Burbank site coordinator. Its a big problem in Los Angeles, and we want to try to do our part to get it fixed and address it as much as possible. The count is mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in order for the city to receive federal funding. Los Angeles has been participating in the national project since 2005. For the past two years, the Burbank count has started at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, where Wren works as a social services manager. He said it was a natural fit because the hospital provides significant homeless services, including treating homeless people daily in the emergency room. At around 8 p.m., a diverse group of volunteers from across the city met in a hospital conference room for a brief training session before heading out in small groups to explore about 30 census tracts determined by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. Theres not much that I can do in my day-to-day life to help the homeless, said Bronwyn Mauldin, a volunteer returning for her third count. If helping to get an accurate count of the number of people who are in the streets helps to ensure that they get the services they need, I feel like Ive done my little bit for the cause, Mauldin added. Much of the Burbank count is conducted from cars, but some areas, such as parks and parking structures, have to be canvassed on foot. Burbank natives Wen Li and James Velandria hopped out of a car to explore retail corridors off San Fernando Boulevard, where they said homeless people tend to congregate, play music and ask for change. Volunteers were instructed not to interact with the people they were counting, but simply make tally marks based on the groups collective judgment. The groups also record other signs of homelessness, such as tents, encampments and cars that are being used as shelter. A separate survey is held by the homeless services authority to determine demographic information. The entire count covers an area of almost 4,000 square miles that includes 2,160 census tracts. Tom Waldman, the authoritys communications director, said the project would be impossible without the thousands of volunteers who sign up to help. This year, more than 8,200 people donated their time, which exceeds last years number by several thousand. The response of the community has been really tremendous, Waldman said. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority employs a data research team that works in conjunction with researchers at USC to study the information collected. The results of the 2018 count are expected to be released in late May. Lila Seidman is a contributing writer to Times Community News. As the sun sets on Bellarmine-Jefferson High School after a 74-year run in Burbank, a new institution is rising to take its place, connecting with alumni and forging its own future. Kevin Baxter, superintendent of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, laid out a framework on Tuesday for the new school called St. John Paul II STEM Academy at Bellarmine-Jefferson which included the hiring of founding director Jeff Hilger. St. John Paul II STEM Academy is set to open in August 2019 on the former campus of Bellarime-Jefferson, located on 465 E. Olive Ave., which closed in June. The school is slated to have a co-educational policy, though the school is taking a unique position in splitting some classes by gender. STEM refers to courses in science, technology, engineering and math. In those STEM subjects, were going to create single-gender classrooms, Baxter said. Theres a lot of research on this, where single-gender instruction can be a more effective model of instruction, while also having a co-education school, which gives you all the benefits of socialization. The selection of a STEM school was organic, said Baxter, who added that the archdiocese created a committee last fall that included Bell-Jeff alumni, parishioners of St. Robert Bellarmine Church, along with Father John Collins and regional principals. We really threw around a number of options and had some brainstorming sessions about what would possibly work and what we felt the community would like, Baxter said. We did some research, and we looked at some various databases about getting demographic information for the area. We did a lot of due diligence, and we came back to the fact that STEM, in general, is very much desired and needed within the community, he added. As for the selection of the schools namesake, that choice came from a high office. The suggestion of St. John Paul II was from Archbishop [Jose] Gomez, Baxter said. His approach was that hes a saint, a pope who visited Los Angeles (in 1987), he visited the United States multiple times and we dont have a school named after him yet [in the diocese]. Baxter added, One of the things we looked into is some of his work around science and STEM subjects, and we realized he had a great connection and a great passion for science. In a way, St. John Paul II was also responsible for attracting its founding director. For about the past five years, Id been seriously considering a move from the public-schools world to the Catholic-schools world, said Hilger, a charter school guru who spent 20 years in public education, in an email. When I learned about the opportunity to open up a brand-new STEM academy on the site of Bellarmine-Jefferson, I became highly intrigued. When I learned that the school would be named in honor of St. John Paul II, I knew I had to apply. Ive always had a great devotion to the pope of my youth. Im honored and humbled to be starting a school named in his honor, he added. The archdiocese chose to keep a link to the past with the full name of the school being St. John Paul II STEM Academy at Bellarmine-Jefferson. I have met many fantastic and engaged alumni who are excited and engaged by the plans for St. John Paul II STEM Academy at Bell-Jeff, Hilger wrote. We have already started creating an alumni room (adjacent to St. Eleanor Hall), where a collection of Bell-Jeff memories will be stored. It will be an inviting space for alumni to come and remember so much great history while discussing ways they can help and affect the future of the school. Baxter said the school would also look to take advantage of its Media City location. We are in Burbank, so were really going to be focusing on STEM subjects in the areas of media arts and the trade technologies, Baxter said. So, the people weve been working with are alumni who have connections to various studios or other parts of the industry where we feel that we can educate students to have some great skills that could set them up for great jobs in the future. As for refurbishments, Baxter said not much is needed. The good news is that the school is in pretty good shape, overall, Baxter said. Weve already done a couple of walk-throughs, and were talking to some foundations to see if we can get some financial support. So, were looking to do mainly some maintenance upgrades and upkeep, and some aesthetic touch-ups. But, overall, there isnt going to be anything too dramatic. Hilgers wish list of priorities, in terms of upgrades, includes an engineering lab, media arts center, reimagined front office and keyboarding/music lab. Baxter said he expects an inaugural freshman class of 60 students before the school adds a grade level annually until it fills out to between 400 and 500 students during the 2022-23 school year. We definitely believe there are students who will support this school, parents who can afford a Catholic education in this area, Baxter said. We see it as being viable and believe it will thrive. andrew.campa@latimes.com Twitter @campadresports Staffing shortages, fewer opportunities for job growth and a perception of bias in promotions and policy enforcement are hampering morale at the Burbank Police Department, according to the results of a police-union-administered survey. The Burbank Police Officers Assn. last month invited 135 members, including officers of all ranks, as well as seven recent retirees, to take the survey. They answered 11 questions, some with multiple parts, and were given space to write comments. Roughly half of the 118 participants indicated that theyd considered leaving the department sometime during the last year, while 60% indicated they were unlikely or extremely unlikely to recommend a career with the agency to their children, relatives or friends. A Burbank police vehicle exits the underground parking garage at police headquarters, in Burbank on Friday, April 8, 2016. (Raul Roa / Staff Photographer) About 75% indicated that morale was low, or extremely low, with one member calling the department a depressing place to work, while another wrote that pretty much everyone dreads going to work. Meanwhile, 73% of participants disagreed or strongly disagreed that the agency has improved its level of service to the community over the last five years. The goal of the survey, union leaders said, was to identify problems and work with management to improve working conditions. Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse said in emails Tuesday it would be premature to comment on the survey without first engaging in good faith discussions with the union, but pointed to the departments 2011 strategic plan, which focused on changes to ensure officer safety, reduce liability issues and guarantee ethical behavior. The process of cultural change is proceeding and the objectives are being achieved, LaChasse wrote. What motivation is there for me to go out there and place myself in a situation that could jeopardize mine and my (familys) future. Participant in Burbank police survey To boost morale, dozens of members who completed the survey advocated that the agency hire more officers, increase specialty assignments, improve leadership at the top and rely less on predictive policing technology, which analyzes crime reports to predict potential problem areas. Patrol officers are required to spend 15 minutes each in up to three areas during their 12-hour-and-20-minute shifts. Critics of the system say that the algorithm sometimes zeroes in on obvious areas, like the Empire Center, where officers already know theres retail crime, or silly ones, like the police station, where people often show up to report crimes. But top cops say police visibility in the areas helps deter crime. When its adhered to, it shows efficacy in terms of lowering crime, said Capt. Denis Cremins. Our No. 1 functional objective is to prevent crime; its not to arrest people. You try to prevent it or deter it this is just a sophisticated way of doing it. In terms of hiring, the agency has made progress filling vacancies and recruiting diverse candidates to join the force. Several months into a two-year recruitment plan that involves offering more testing cycles, attending more recruiting events and targeting military personnel, the agency has hired five recruits and two police officers, raising the number of filled sworn positions to 152 of 160. Within that group, one recruit is Armenian, another is Latino and a third is black, according to Lt. Eric Deroian, who oversees recruitment. One of them is also female. But itll be awhile before officers feel the additional manpower on the street. Two of the recruits will graduate the academy in November, the other three in January. Meanwhile, about a couple dozen officers are eligible to retire. When you have low morale, if people arent happy, that could accelerate, could affect the retention level, said Sgt. Sean Kelley, a union board member. The hiring happening now may not keep up with the people that are leaving in the future. Burbank Police officers Justin Brodrick and Detective Aaron Key investigate the scene where a dead body was found in a parked car in the Buena Vista Library parking lot on August 7, 2015. (Photo by Ross A. Benson) Less than a quarter of survey respondents felt that promotions, special assignment appointments and personnel investigations were handled fairly, while just 11% felt that department policies were enforced fairly to all ranks. We are now in a society that doesnt support police and have a command staff that will be quick to crush us for any mistake, one participant wrote. What motivation is there for me to go out there and place myself in a situation that could jeopardize mine and my (familys) future. Police sources supportive of changes made by the current administration disputed concerns over perceived fairness, while noting that officers are paid well a new contract approved earlier this year involved salary increases have access to working equipment and are supported by the community. If I was being investigated now, I would feel comfortable with the investigation, said one sworn employee, who asked not to be named. If I was being investigated with the prior administration, I would be scared to death. Join the conversation on Facebook >> Some in the agency feel handcuffed by what they called overly restrictive policies, including those involving use of force, as well as foot and vehicle pursuits, but others say those policies are based on best practices in a changing law enforcement culture. Very few agencies now are allowing you to go on a wild pursuit over something as minimal as a red light violation, said the officer who asked for anonymity. There is a probability that someone will crash at a high rate of speed, and someone suspect, officer, bystander may be hurt or killed over a traffic violation that if its their first time, they can go to traffic school. Is that really worth it? The survey results were critical of the agencys leadership, which consists mostly of Los Angeles Police Department veterans brought to the helm in 2010 to reform a department reeling from allegations of police brutality as well as racism and sexual harassment within its ranks. Tensions flared recently after the Burbank Leader published emails forwarded in 2012 and 2013 by a key member of LaChasses reform team that contained stereotypes of Muslims, blacks, Latinos, women and others. Former Burbank Deputy Chief Tom Angel in Feb. 2015. (Roger Wilson / Staff Photographer) Former Deputy Chief Tom Angel left the Burbank force last year to return to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, where hed previously spent 33 years. In May, he resigned his post as Sheriff Jim McDonnells chief of staff in the wake of the email scandal after numerous civil rights advocates called on him to step down. Union leaders criticized how LaChasse handled the discovery of the emails in 2014, which was part of what prompted the survey. Concerns over staffing shortages, morale and policies also played a role. The survey results echoed concerns raised in a smaller-scale survey conducted early last year by the Center for Public Safety Management, which drew responses from 82 officers. According to the 2015 report, sworn employees complained about staffing deficiencies, low morale and poor communication by higher ups. -- Alene Tchekmedyian, alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com Twitter: @atchek MORE CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY Man dies after exchanging gunfire with Burbank police, then shooting himself Lifeguard accused of secretly recording girls and women in locker room pleads not guilty Local detectives seize weapons, make arrests during gang-enforcement effort Hello, brother. These words greeted the white supremacist as he walked into the first of two Christchurch mosques in New Zealand on March 15 and fired semiautomatic weapons, killing 50 people in their houses of worship and on their holiest day of the week. My first reaction when I read two mosques were attacked was fear and anxiety for my mother, who goes to Friday prayers here in Orange County, followed by contemplation about whether I should ask her to stay away from her mosque. Attacks on houses of worship are especially vicious. They bring chaos and bloodshed to otherwise safe, centering spaces. They are designed to deter people from practicing their religion. The idea of encouraging my mother to stay away from the mosque is in direct contradiction to my principles. Yet this is how I felt. The thought of such an attack happening while my mother is at the mosque shakes my existence. Hello, brother. These were Daoud Nabis last words before the terrorist shot him dead. Though New Zealand is a faraway place, this hits close to home for me and Muslims throughout Orange County, residents in a country where the president and I am sad to say this has essentially denounced those who practice the faith while simultaneously downplaying the threat of white supremacists. There have been many solidarity rallies, vigils and efforts in O.C., including one at the Islamic Society of Orange County in Anaheim on March 15 and another on March 21 at New Horizon Upper School in Irvine, where Asmi Hussain, who lost two family members (Naeem and Talha Rashid) in the shootings, spoke. Relatives in Pakistan look the pictures of Rashid Naeem and his son Talha Naeem, who were killed in the Christchurch mosque shooting. Another family member Asmi Hussain spoke at a solidary rally and vigil for the Muslim community at the New Horizon Upper School in Irvine. (Photo by Aqeel Ahmed/AP) What is especially disheartening is that so many Muslims who emigrate do it because they are not safe in their own home countries or because their homes have been stolen from them. Those who were killed in New Zealand were mostly immigrants and refugees seeking safe harbor. Nabi, an Afghani, had reportedly lived in New Zealand for more than 40 years, calling it a slice of paradise. He called everyone brother, even the man about to end his life. Mona Shadia is a contributor to TimesOC. Follow her on Twitter at @monashadia and follow @timesocofficial for more news and features about Orange County. A Huntington Beach woman is harnessing the power of social media to provide a network for young adults diagnosed with cerebral palsy to find support and friendship. Katy Fetters will present her first CP Social on Saturday at Mamas on 39 in Huntington Beach. About 50 locals and out-of-towners registered for the event, where people can share their experiences of living with cerebral palsy, a developmental disorder that affects movement and muscle tone. Registration is now closed. The gathering has been years in the making. Fetters, 26, first began documenting her experience with the disorder in 2009 on her blog called TeenCP. She used the blog, now rebranded Cerebral Palsy Strong, as an outlet and gained a loyal following of teenagers who were happy to find someone they could relate to. Several of her longtime readers have become friends that shell finally get to meet in person Saturday. On TeenCP, Fetters stream-of-consciousness entries revealed her worries about what she described as trivial things but important for teenagers. She talked about finding comfortable and supportive yet stylish shoes to wear to her high school prom. She wondered if boys would like her even though the left side of her body had been weakened by the disability, often resulting in her limping or wearing an ankle brace. Symptoms of cerebral palsy the most common motor disability diagnosed during childhood vary from person to person, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some people may not be able to walk at all, while some may walk awkwardly. Katy Fetters climbed more than 3,000 stone slab steps to reach the top of Machu Picchu in Peru, with help from the ExoSym Leg Brace. (Courtesy of Katy Fetters) Fetters couldnt stand for more than two to three hours at a time. She wore an ankle brace on and off, received Botox treatment on her calf and tried a special cast that offered her left leg more support, but she struggled with how people would look at her. Back then, she said, she hadnt met anyone else with the disorder and felt lonely, despite having a close relationship with her family. I was able to downplay it, but growing up in Huntington Beach and Orange County, theres some insecurities of being more self-aware, and I felt like I needed extra support nobody else could provide me except for therapy, she said. After Fetters graduated from Soka University in Aliso Viejo in 2015, she stepped back from her blog to pursue further college and go about her daily life. She said she always knew she would return to her online community but wanted to find a new purpose. Her aha moment, she said, was learning about the ExoSym Leg Brace, a hybrid prosthetic-orthotic device designed by Hanger Clinic to help people with limb injuries. She got the brace two months before she went on a five-month adventure through South America in 2017 before starting a graduate program in media and public engagement at the University of Colorado, Boulder. The brace improved her quality of life, helping her walk better, Fetters said. But most importantly, she said, it changed her perspective on her disability, encouraging her to talk about cerebral palsy rather than shy away from it. Even in the cerebral palsy community there is a stigma against wearing something that sets you apart from somebody, she said. But theres no more pain anymore. I just had to change my attitude of presenting myself with the disability. People ask, Did you tear your ACL? Reactions are widely varied, but Im much more comfortable. Katy Fetters completed a 28-mile hike through a jungle in Colombia. (Courtesy of Katy Fetters) With help from the brace, Fetters completed a 28-mile hike with some help from riding a donkey through Colombias jungle and climbed more than 3,000 stone slab steps to reach the top of Machu Picchu in Peru. Fetters said she hit mental roadblocks along the way but credits the brace for enabling her to take on outdoor adventures she might not have attempted otherwise. She said she discusses the device on her blog in case others might benefit from it. Ive figured out what my limitations were with this brace, she said. It takes a lot of patience and knowing what your body can do, but I wasnt afraid of injuries anymore. Fetters still blogs about her life on Cerebral Palsy Strong but takes a more polished approach. She uses various social media platforms and the hashtag #CPStrong on Instagram to cultivate her community and feature others to try to change misconceptions some may have about the disability. What happens with cerebral palsy as you get older? Were all narrating that experience through CPStrong, she said. We all go to school and have full-time jobs and have this disability on top of that. Were collectively figuring that out and learning how to present ourselves and showing that were capable of what everyone else can do, like getting a masters degree or driving a car. As the number of people temporarily renting out rooms or homes increases, Sunset Beach residents brainstormed a list of rules for owners to follow if such lodgings are formally legalized by the city of Huntington Beach. Short-term vacation rentals typically for 30 days or less are prohibited in Huntington Beach. However, in Sunset Beach a neighborhood about a mile and half long along Pacific Coast Highway between Anderson Street and Warner Avenue they have been allowed unofficially since the area was annexed into Surf City in 2011. About 15 Sunset Beach residents, along with City Councilwoman Barbara Delgleize, met Thursday night at the Nobles Family Community Building to air concerns about short-term rental lodgings. How do you feel? How do you want to move forward? Kevin Paulson, president of the Sunset Beach Community Assn., asked the group. Sentiments were largely similar to those in most cities that have seen a boom in short-term rentals since they started gaining traction on online platforms like Airbnb. Critics contend such businesses damage neighborhoods quality of life with party houses, loud noise and traffic and parking congestion. Advocates say the lodgings can generate additional revenue for the city while providing affordable vacations for people who may not be able to stay at a beachside resort. On Thursday, the residents reached consensus on rules they believe could help maintain Sunset Beachs quiet charm. The list includes: A room or house must be rented for a minimum of three nights or, alternatively, a week. Homeowners must personally vet their guests and provide parking. Limit the number of people allowed to stay in a home based on the beds available. Create fines for owners and guests who violate the rules. Establish an occupancy tax similar to that for hotel guests. The list isnt set in stone, and more meetings will be held if a pilot program officially allowing short-term rentals in Sunset Beach is implemented, Paulson said. The rules could serve as a model for the rest of Huntington Beach to follow, he added. Delgleize and Paulson took notes that were to be passed along to city officials. During the meeting, several people shared their experiences of living in a community that has become a hub for rentals and vacation homes. Sunset Beach resident Jim Myers, 70, urged those on the other side of the issue to remember the people who grew up in the area when it was peaceful and quiet. I do understand its all about change and we have a little tiny community that has woken up to all these new Airbnbs and stuff, he said. I understand making money is what everyone wants to do and has to do, but there are some of us that have to go to work at 6 a.m. and our neighbors cant be up until 3 a.m. in their Jacuzzi on their deck. Kathryn Levassiur, founder of the Huntington Beach Short-Term Rental Alliance and a vocal advocate of such businesses, said neighbors shouldnt serve as code enforcement and suggested using technology to help monitor noise levels. Ernie Robles lives in Seacliff, a gated community in Huntington Beach, but bought a small 1950s-era home in Sunset Beach last spring. His goal, Robles said, is to eventually move to the property permanently when his children are older. Robles has listed the house on Airbnb the past several months. The minimum stay is four days, and he keeps his prices high, he said. He also drives by at night to check on the guests. Holly Schlange, a longtime Sunset Beach resident, said she has listed her home for rent on Airbnb for three years. Because parking in the area is limited along the greenbelt a mile-long pathway near beachfront homes and along Pacific Coast Highway, Schlange said she provides parking to guests. She urged others to do the same. Richard Johnson rebuffs questions about his girlfriends death, especially from people he feels havent earned answers. At 6-foot-2, Johnson is a towering man with an expressive face whose voice can quickly shift from a whisper to a boom, depending on the topic of conversation. Now 50, he chain-smokes American Spirit cigarettes, though hes vowed to quit. Working in the taxi business since the 1990s has given him a kind of street smarts and exterior toughness that make him a great conversationalist, but also slightly unnerving. In the years after the 1997 rape and slaying of his girlfriend, Adrienne Sunny Sudweeks, people would wander into Johnsons Newport Beach art gallery and performance venue AAA Electra 99 and pretend to know Adrienne or inquire about years-old folklore that suggested Johnson was involved in her death. Murder groupies, hed call them before booting them out of the gallery. If they called her Sunny, they probably didnt really know her, Johnson says. Sunny was a childhood name that Adrienne had long abandoned. Her mom called her Sunny, but her friends didnt use that name. Johnson blames newspapers and police for casting a shadow of suspicion on him that has lasted more than 20 years. He admits he may have antagonized detectives working the case by questioning their tactics and refusing to go away. His only regret, he says, is that he didnt complain more. The sun was up on Feb. 23, 1997, by the time detectives led Johnson out of the Costa Mesa apartment where Adrienne died the night before. They placed him in a peach-colored Ford sedan parked on Mission Drive. Yellow police tape was strung around the trees, blocking the entrance to the unit. Inside, detectives combed the space looking for clues, jotting notes, taking photos. Johnson climbed into the front seat of the sedan for the silent drive to the Costa Mesa police station. A detective led Johnson through a maze of cubicles, past glass-enclosed offices and into a fluorescent-lighted interview room. A neighbor who was being interviewed in another room shot Johnson a look of revulsion as he passed. The look provided him the first clue that some people falsely suspected he might be involved in Adriennes death. A detective swabbed his mouth and genitals for DNA. Johnson lit a cigarette, taking a couple of drags before stamping it out. Police asked him where he had been that night. He had the addresses of all his taxi runs written on his hand numbers and street names all the way down his wrist. After talking with police for hours, they told him he could go back to the apartment that he and Adrienne had shared and pick up some clothes. The detectives offered a warning: Dont go to Adriennes mothers home. Richard Johnson, in a March 1998 photo in the Daily Pilot, discusses the 1997 death of his girlfriend, Adrienne "Sunny" Sudweeks. File Photo Johnson didnt realize at that point that the search for Adriennes killer would span 20 years. For years after, he would rustle up young artists, musicians and friends for candlelight vigils in Adriennes memory outside the police station on Fair Drive. He would pester the chief and detectives for updates on the investigation. Adriennes mother, Sandy Sudweeks, would call it a fixation, but Johnson seemed to view it more as seeking justice. I dont do all this because Adrienne was my girlfriend. I do this because she was my best friend, Johnson said. And because this is what she would have wanted. So he ignored police advice not to visit Sandy the morning after Adriennes death and made the nearly 5-mile drive to her house in Westside Costa Mesa. He couldnt bear the idea of some detective who didnt know Adrienne breaking the news. Sandy should hear it from him, he thought. By the time he arrived at her door early that afternoon, Johnson was hysterical. He walked into her tile entryway and tried to explain, but the words caught in his throat. He stepped up the carpeted stairs into the living room and collapsed on the floor. Shes dead, Johnson said. Shes dead. Sandy figured he was on drugs, or maybe that a passenger had died in his taxi. She hadnt been much of a fan of Johnson from the get-go, but her daughter loved him, so she did her best to tolerate his eccentricities. I saw her tongue sticking out, he said quietly. It dawned on Sandy that he was talking about her daughter. He couldnt be, she thought. She walked to her study and called 911. She asked the operator whether there had been a report of a death in Costa Mesa. The operator placed her on hold. Thats it. That means yes, Sandy thought. The tension rose in her chest, and Sandy hung up the phone. When the operator called back, she asked if Sandy had a pastor. A wave of heat moved from the top of her head, down the length of her body. Thats all I need to know, she said before hanging up again. Costa Mesa police detectives and the family of Adrienne "Sunny" Sudweeks walked door to door in her neighborhood handing out fliers in the hope that someone might have information about her rape and killing in 1997. Getty Images Sandy didnt have time to sit at home and grieve. She had been thrust into a nightmare that no parent is prepared to handle. But she had to make decisions. Should Adrienne be buried? Should she be cremated? Who should receive her ashes? The most pressing question of all: Who killed her? For weeks, Sandy, Johnson, some of Sandys students, Adriennes friends, family members and police detectives knocked on door after door looking for answers. Had anyone seen anything? The answer was always no. They taped posters and fliers on trees, poles and garage doors, offering a $5,000 reward for information about Adriennes death. No one came forward. Sandy shunned journalists requests for information and interviews. She didnt want her daughter to become fodder for prurient or sensationalist interests. This kind of thing you assume only happens in movies and to people you dont know, Sandy said later. It doesnt happen to nice, polite middle-class families. Well, thats not true. I couldnt stop her from being killed, but I could protect her in this way. She realized shortly that she had made a mistake. In a crime without suspects, public exposure can help solve it, she said. Police interviewed 200 people during the investigation, and more than 130 men provided DNA samples through saliva swabs. None matched that left by the killer. Sandy began doing interviews, posing for photographs, trying to think up angles that might interest reporters. Anything to keep the publics eye on a case that was quickly growing cold. This is the second of four parts. In Part 3, Adriennes family and friends try to carry on without her, and investigators get a break in the case. hannah.fry@latimes.com Twitter: @HannahFryTCN A Newport Beach couple were charged Wednesday with multiple felonies after authorities alleged they stole more than $5.9 million in a real estate fraud scheme and laundered the money to purchase a luxury car and invest in a winery. Ronald Cedric Touchard, 59, faces 54 counts of money laundering, three counts of grand theft and three counts of recording a false or forged instrument, as well as several possible sentencing enhancements, according to Orange County Superior Court records. Misty Denise Touchard, 43, faces 13 counts of money laundering and three counts of grand theft, as well as possible sentencing enhancements, court records show. If convicted, Ronald Touchard could face a maximum of 55 years and four months in state prison and Misty Touchard could face 24 years and eight months, according to prosecutors. Newport Beach police arrested the couple Wednesday, authorities said. Prosecutors allege Ronald Touchard took over the titles of three Newport Beach residences that he did not own between June and July 2016 by submitting paperwork to Delaware indicating he was the sole officer of Capital Win Corp. and Gainquick LLC, investment companies based in Laguna Beach. Ronald Touchard convinced hard money lenders that, as president of Capital Win and Gainquick, he held the deed of trust for each residence and pulled $5.9 million in equity out of the properties, prosecutors allege. Prosecutors said the couple used the funds to make several large purchases and moved the money among various bank accounts in a pattern consistent with money laundering. The Touchards are being held in Orange County Jail in Santa Ana without bail, according to jail records. They are expected to be arraigned June 1. hannah.fry@latimes.com Twitter: @HannahFryTCN UPDATES: 4 p.m.: This article was updated with the Touchards jail status and new arraignment date. This article was originally published at 10:30 a.m. Seoul, South Korea-born Jina Nam recalled Glendales 2013 installation of a controversial statue honoring Korean women who were forced into sexual slavery by Japanese soldiers during World War II. Previously calm, her emotions heightened. That was such a moving and personally important landmark for me, 20-year Glendale resident Nam said on a recent Saturday afternoon in the Downtown Central Library. Nam was telling all this to the future. An iPad was recording the conversation for a yet-to-be determined audience interested in learning about Glendale through the eyes of its immigrants and longtime residents. As a participant in the librarys Tell Me: Stories of Migration to Glendale, Nams narrative will be edited into a three- to four-minute video to be incorporated into a growing oral-history archive of Glendale residents. More than 35 had been collected by mid-March as part of a project that launched last fall. The impetus behind all of this was to start capturing the stories of Glendalians before they basically were no longer on the Earth, said Lora Martinolich, who co-applied for a $20,000 grant from California Humanities that funded the project, for which the library partnered with StoryCenter, a Berkeley-based nonprofit that promotes digital storytelling. Tell Me will culminate this fall with an exhibit at the Central Librarys ReflectSpace gallery, incorporating the collected video narratives and various artists works. A video previewing the first dozen interviews, which were conducted last fall in a different format, was shown earlier this month at the library. About 60 to 70 people attended the screening, according to Ara Oshagan, who co-curates ReflectSpace. While the exhibit will come and eventually go, the oral-history project has no expiration date. The hope is that, one day, there will be a substantial indexed archive where people will be able search the videos for key words or other markers, according to Oshagan. If you want to know the history of Glendale through the people who lived here and experienced it firsthand, here it is, Oshagan said. Thats what we want to see. For Tell Me, there has been a conscious effort to include a wide variety of voices, including older and younger immigrants from different ethnic backgrounds, Oshagan said. Now that the library owns a pair of iPads and lapel microphones and StoryCenter has trained some library staff to interview and edit videos Oshagan envisions hosting ongoing, once-monthly story-collection sessions to grow the data base. Were hoping that they can hold the ball and pick it up, that they learned the things they need to learn about doing this, StoryCenter chief executive Joe Lambert said, adding that library staff members were largely handling the interviews themselves. A good interviewer listens for people to land in a time of change, with a before and after, Lambert said. If you can get them in that moment, then you get something that somebody else wants to listen to. Since joining the library in 1987, Martinolich said she and her colleagues have amassed lists of people whose stories they wanted to preserve. They have already made their own recordings of some staff members from the library and citys planning department. Unfortunately, others on the list have either died, fell ill or left the city before the Tell Me project was funded, she said. Veering meta in her narrative, Nam echoed Martinolichs call to preserve the past before its too late. Referring to the surviving Korean comfort women, spotlighted by the Glendale Peace Monument, Nam said, they are getting older and are dying off, and we really dont want their stories to be lost. ReflectSpace hosted an exhibit on comfort women last year, which Nam lauded in her video interview. Since the California State Library commissioned StoryCenter in 2016 to bring digital storytelling to libraries statewide, the organization has come into contact with many libraries. According to Lambert, ReflectSpaces effort to shine a light on civil and human-rights issues, on which his organization also focuses, is unique among libraries across California. It feels like theyve already created a place where peoples stories matter, Lambert said. Its an environment in which people can arrive and feel supported and listened to in a way that allows them to speak their truth. Just before discussing the Glendale Peace Monument, Nam was reflecting on days when Glendale had a more small-town feel. That was in the 1990s, when Central Avenue was still home to quaint brick buildings before they were torn down to make room for luxury apartments, she said. Its largely those quotidian details that will convey the color and texture of an earlier Glendale, Martinolich said. Its not always about wars or things like that, but its wonderful for people to know how things have changed here over time, Martinolich said. How they remain the same and how they change. lila.seidman@latimes.com Twitter: @lila_seidman The World Bank has approved a 350-million-U.S.-dollar loan to support elderly care in China's southwestern Guizhou Province. Two elderly people in Guizhou Province. [File photo: VCG] The bank's board of executive directors has approved the loans to a program of developing a comprehensive policy and institutional framework for elderly care in Guizhou. It aims to increase equitable access to a basic package of care services for the elderly and to strengthen the quality of services and the efficiency of the aged care system in the province. "The program will form part of a larger World Bank-financed engagement to support China in the aged care sector reform and help strengthen its institutional systems and capacities," said Martin Raiser, World Bank country director for China. The program will be co-financed by a loan of 100 million euros (about 113 million U.S. dollars) from the Agence Francaise de Development and nearly 2 billion dollars from local governments. City Council members agreed that short-term rentals where the host is not present during the stay should be banned in Glendale, and they asked staff last week to prepare a report about the issue. Currently, the city has no regulations regarding short-term home and apartment rentals booked through popular sites such as Airbnb and VRBO, said Mike Garcia, city attorney, during a council meeting on Oct. 2. I dont see anything good about this, Councilman Ara Najarian said. [AirBnb hosts] skirt our laws for zoning; they skirt our laws for transient-occupancy taxes; they skirt our laws for responsibility of being a good neighbor. While Najarian and Mayor Zareh Sinanyan said they would support an outright ban of all short-term rentals, the council decided to tentatively support home-sharing, where the host remains on the premises during the stay. All council members who were at the meeting tentatively rejected vacation stays, where the host is not present. I dont think theres any other way of controlling the noise, the traffic and all the other negative impacts, Councilwoman Paula Devine said of home-sharing. If the owner is there, they can see whats going on and stop it, kick the people out or whatever they want to do. Councilman Vartan Gharpetian left the meeting early after making a brief statement with directives including mandated quiet hours and safety inspections. The report presented to the council was an overview of how other municipalities have addressed home-sharing practices, including capping the number of rental days per year, working with booking sites to collect relevant taxes and imposing fines on hosts who violate local regulations. Council members also addressed the updated status of various lawsuits brought by municipalities at the state and federal levels against short-term rental-booking platforms and vice versa, previously presented in a report on the issue in 2016. Since 2016, more of the lawsuits have resolved, but, on the flipside, weve had more complaints regarding short-term rentals than ever, said Yvette Neukian, senior assistant city attorney, who presented the report. Those complaints include excessive noise, late-night parties, loitering and even theft, according to several council members. Najarian said his car was broken into while he was living near a property frequently rented out on a short-term basis. There are roughly 400 units in Glendale that city officials suspect are regularly used for short-term rentals, according to Councilman Vrej Agajanian. In order not to lose affordable units in Glendale, we need to eliminate these Airbnb units, Agajanian said after the meeting, echoing concerns expressed by other officials that the phenomenon depletes the housing stock and contributes to rising rents in the area. Los Angeles has not adopted short-term-rental regulations, though City Council members have been deliberating over a potential ordinance for more than three years. Other cities, however, including Pasadena, Santa Monica, San Francisco and Palm Desert, have adopted regulations. They all require hosts to register with the city and pay transient-occupancy taxes. Glendale has not yet set a timeline for drafting regulations. lila.seidman@latimes.com Twitter: @lila_seidman Authorities have identified twin brothers who were found dead in Glendale on Wednesday in what police believe was a murder-suicide. The deaths of Carl Ora and David Cirilo Cervantes, both 60, were reported within 40 minutes of each other, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiners office. David Cervantes was the first to be found after officers with the Glendale Police Department responded to a call about an injured person at a condominium in the 50 block of Northwoods Lane around 3:30 a.m. He was found dead inside. An official cause of death has not been determined pending an autopsy, authorities said. Officers soon received word around 4:20 of a possible suicide on the 134 Freeway. Sgt. Dan Suttles, a police spokesman, previously said a man had appeared to jump from the 2 Freeway interchange onto the eastbound 134. While Suttles said investigators think the deaths were the result of a murder-suicide, he said its possible the incidents were a double suicide. We have no motive yet because there are only two witnesses, and theyre both deceased, he said. Witnesses told officers the brothers lived together in the condo according to Suttles. Property records list their father, 88-year-old Carl Cervantes, as the condominiums owner. It also shows a 64-year-old Nikki Cervantes living in the Northwoods Lane home as well. Attempts to reach Carl or Nikki Cervantes were unsuccessful. andy.nguyen@latimes.com Twitter: @Andy_Truc Arizona 10, Dodgers 4 ON THE MOUND: Tony Gonsolin was initially slated to start Friday against the Diamondbacks, but Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he was sick, so Gonsolin was scratched. It was later announced that Gonsolin was reassigned to the minor league camp. Instead, Dennis Santana came over from minors camp to get the start. Santana allowed three runs on three hits in three innings. Kevin Quackenbush, one of the few non-roster invitees remaining in camp, allowed a hit in the scoreless inning. AT THE PLATE: Shortstop Corey Seager played six innings and went 0 for 3 with a strikeout in his second game with the Dodgers after elbow-ligament replacement and hip surgeries. He tested the elbow in the sixth inning when he made a backhanded stop in the hole and threw across his body to get the runner out at first base to end the inning. He then lined out to center field in his final at-bat. Third baseman Justin Turner homered for the second straight day and third time in Cactus League play. He finished 2 for 3, pushing his spring batting average to .474. Center fielder A.J. Pollock went 2 for 2 with a walk. Outfielder Jeren Kendall, the Dodgers first-round pick in the 2017 draft, doubled in his first at-bat and homered in his second. The Vanderbilt product stumbled last season, striking out 158 times in 114 games for Class A Rancho Cucamonga. EXTRA BASES: Dustin May, the Dodgers top pitching prospect, will travel with the team to California to pitch in the Freeway Series. The 21-year-old right-hander took a leap forward last season, when his fastball velocity sat in the mid-to-high-90s as he compiled a 3.39 earned-run average in 23 starts between high-A Rancho Cucamonga and double-A Tulsa. He has allowed a run in nine innings this spring. Advertisement UP NEXT: The Dodgers complete their Cactus League schedule Saturday against the Chicago White Sox at Camelback Ranch. Brock Stewart is scheduled to start on the mound for Los Angeles after Rich Hill (knee) was scratched. First pitch is at 12:05 p.m. Sign up for our Dodgers newsletter jorge.castillo@latimes.com Twitter: @jorgecastillo The Dodgers fell to the Chicago White Sox 5-1 in their Cactus League finale Saturday at Camelback Ranch in Phoenix, dropping to 12-14-3 in spring training. ON THE MOUND: Brock Stewart, a candidate for the final spot on the Dodgers opening-day roster, allowed four runs (one earned) in 3 innings. He would have gotten out of the first inning unscathed, but third baseman Cristian Santana committed a throwing error with two outs, allowing a run to score. Stewart then gave up a two-run, ground-rule double . Stetson Allie, one of few non-roster invitees remaining in major league camp, allowed one hit and struck out two in two-thirds of an inning. AT THE PLATE: Chris Taylor hit a leadoff home run in the bottom of the first inning. Taylor is slated to start in left field against left-handed starters and serve as the clubs primary utility man. The Dodgers mustered just two other hits, both singles from Paulo Orlando. Sign up for our Dodgers newsletter Advertisement EXTRA BASES: Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Tony Cingrani will remain in Arizona and is expected to resume throwing next week. The left-hander was instructed to stop throwing recently when he began experiencing discomfort in his left shoulder the same shoulder in which an injury limited him to two outings after June 6 last season. UP NEXT: The Dodgers will travel to Angel Stadium to begin the Freeway Series on Sunday. Ross Stripling will get the start. First pitch is scheduled for 5 p.m. TV: SportsNet LA. Radio: AM 570, AM 1020 (Spanish). jorge.castillo@latimes.com Twitter: @jorgecastillo Gunmen stormed a government building in Somalias capital after a suicide car bombing Saturday, killing at least five people including the countrys deputy labor minister, police said, in the latest attack by Islamic extremist fighters in the Horn of Africa nation. Somali security forces were exchanging gunfire with at least five attackers and trying to rescue public servants trapped inside the Mogadishu building, which houses the ministries of labor and works, police Capt. Mohamed Hussein said. Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, Somalias deputy minister of labor and social affairs, was killed in his ground-floor office shortly after gunmen stormed the building, he said. The death toll is expected to rise as dozens of people were believed to be inside the building at the time of the attack since Saturday is a working day in Somalia. Advertisement Al Shabab claimed responsibility for the ongoing attack, saying that its fighters were inside the building, which is not far from the headquarters of the Somali intelligence agency. As the attack unfolded, gunfire could be heard from inside the building. White smoke billowed from the scene, according to witnesses. A similar attack targeting a busy area in Mogadishu at the end of February killed at least 24 people. That attack also began with a pair of car bombs exploding in a popular area of Mogadishu where Somalis were relaxing at restaurants. The Al Qaeda-linked Shabab frequently carries out suicide bombings targeting public places, hotels and government offices. Shabab, Africas most active Islamic extremist group, has been fighting for years to take power and create an Islamic state in Somalia. The group continues to mount lethal attacks despite being pushed out of Mogadishu. It mostly operates from rural areas in the countrys south. African Union peacekeepers stationed in Mogadishu and elsewhere in the country have helped Somali forces to keep Shabab fighters at bay. The group has carried out many deadly attacks in neighboring Kenya in retaliation over Kenyas deployment in 2011 of peacekeepers in Somalia. The U.S. military has carried out a number of deadly airstrikes in recent months against Shabab. Pope Francis on Saturday accepted the resignation of Cardinal Ricardo Ezzati, Chiles top Roman Catholic official, in the latest shock wave to hit the church that has been rocked by a flurry of sexual abuse allegations and the resulting loss of favor by Chileans. Ezzati, 77, archbishop of Santiago, the capital of Chile, and head of the church hierarchy since 2011, was one of the 33 Chilean bishops who offered their resignation en masse to Pope Francis last May amid accusations of cover-ups of sexual abuse by priests. While not accused himself of abusing minors, Ezzati was perceived as responsible for years of keeping quiet as many as 251 alleged crimes. The pope has now accepted the resignations of eight of the Chilean bishops A statement from the Vatican press office did not detail the reasons why the Pope had acted 10 months after Ezzati and others offered to quit. It said he will be temporarily replaced by Bishop Celestino Aos of Copiapo. Advertisement But the answer could lie in the continuing deterioration of the churchs image in Chile because of the scandals. Membership has declined to 45% of Chileans from 76% in 1987. Recent opinion polls give the church a 20% approval rate A defiant Ezzati faced the press Saturday at a news conference at a church-run school in downtown Santiago and denied that he had led a cover-up I can say, with my head held high, that all the complaints that have reached the complaints office that I created in 2011 have been investigated, or are being investigated, he told reporters. Its not enough to say that I have covered up (abuse), you have to prove it. Ezzati had been linked in press reports and victims allegations to at least three cases of cover-ups. One involved alleged abuse committed by former archdiocese chancellor Oscar Munoz who was in charge of the churchs sexual abuse investigation files, and is currently under criminal investigation and under house arrest. The Chilean abuse cases stretch back to the 1940s with the most recent being that of a homeless man who claims to have been drugged and raped by a priest in a dormitory inside the Cathedral of Santiago in 2015. The accuser told the police he returned once to the Cathedral, where Ezzati takes confession from time to time, to tell him his story. He said he received a hug from the archbishop in response and the equivalent of $45 in Chilean pesos, which was given to him by another priest. Asked about the homeless man, Ezzati told a local television station early this month: I dont know him. Victims rights activists hailed the popes acceptance of the resignation as a positive step. Cardinal Ezzati represents everything that we have fought against for years, especially the culture of abuse and cover-up, said Juan Carlos Cruz, James Hamilton and Jose Andres Murrillo in a statement. The three are abuse survivors who have helped lead a campaign pressuring the Vatican to take action. Chiles President Sebastian Pinera has spoken out about child welfare since taking office in March 2018 and sent a bill to eliminate the statute of limitations on child sex crimes. The Chilean Church begins a new stage, said Pinera spokeswoman Cecilia Perez on Saturday. Ezzati, born in the Italian village of Campiglia in 1942, moved to Chile at age 17, then returned to Italy to be ordained as a priest in 1970. He subsequently spent his entire pastoral career in Chile. In 1996, he was appointed bishop of the southern city of Valdivia by John Paul II, and 10 years later, Chiles Congress granted him Chilean citizenship for his services to the country. Francis named him a cardinal in 2014. The national prosecutors office searched Ezzatis office last June, one of seven diocesan offices police have raided in the course of their investigation. A request to an appellate court by the cardinals lawyer that the case be dismissed was unanimously turned down Friday. Currently, more than 190 people across Chile are under investigation up from 83 in 2017 for alleged sexual abuse and cover-ups linked to the Roman Catholic Church, including 113 priests and nine bishops, according to the Chilean National Prosecutors Office. Of 251 alleged victims, at least 109 were minors as young as 5 years old in cases dating back decades. The Chilean abuse issue drew international attention in January 2018 when Pope Francis, during a visit to Chile, described cover-up allegations against then-bishop of Osorno Juan Barros as calumny, sparking widespread outrage. The dismissive comments were too much for many church officials, including the influential Boston archbishop, Cardinal Sean P. OMalley, who said Francis words had been a source of great pain for survivors of sexual abuse by clergy or any other perpetrator. Within days, Francis changed his mind, sending the archbishop of Malta, Charles J. Scicluna, to investigate the Chilean cases. In March 2018, Scicluna delivered a scathing report blaming the church hierarchy in Chile for systematic cover-ups. The report led to the 33 Chilean bishops offering their resignation. Special correspondent Poblete is based in Santiago. Special correspondent Chris Kraul contributed from Bogota, Colombia. Chilean prosecutors probe rural Catholic diocese for evidence in abuse case - Femi Falana is in support of Cameroonians' continual stay in Nigeria - The human rights lawyer explained that the deportation of Cameroonians by Nigeria's government lacks legality - According to him, a Federal High Court had ruled in their favour, declaring the deportation as illegal and unconstitutional A human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has condemned deportation of Cameroonian who had applied for asylum in Nigeria saying the action lacks legality. In a letter sent to the attorney general of the federation and minister of justice, Abubakar Malami, Falana said his clients were also entitled to legal protection. The senior lawyer argued that in utter breach of their rights, they were deported and dumped in Cameroon by the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA). READ ALSO: Tribunal orders INEC to allow Shehu Sani inspect election materials Falana said: Based on the instruction of our client, we challenged the expulsion from Nigeria at the Abuja judicial division of the Federal High Court. This case was defended by your chambers on behalf of the respondents including your office. In the judgment delivered on March 1, 2019, the Federal High Court declared the deportation of our client as illegal and unconstitutional, and awarded reparation of various sums to them, ordering the federal government to bring them back to Nigeria and restore all their rights and privileges as bona-fide refugees and asylum seekers in Nigeria. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app The lawyer urged the attorney general to use his good office to compel the federal government to comply with the judgment of the Federal High Court. Legit.ng previously reported that the United Nations said no fewer than 32,000 Cameroonians fleeing insecurity and violence are currently taking refuge in Nigeria. The UN resident and humanitarian coordinator for Cameroon, Allegra Baiocchi, while presenting the 2019 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) for the country, described the situation in the country as forgotten crisis. Baiocchi and Cameroons civil protection director, Yap Mariatou, warned at the launch in Geneva that there was a drastic increase in humanitarian need across the country. The UN chief for Cameroon regretted that with attacks on the rise, around 4.3 million Cameroonians, mostly women and children, were in need of lifesaving assistance. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! 2019 Election: Do you still trust INEC to conduct fair elections? - on Legit TV: Source: Legit Newspaper - A Nigerian pastor has been arrested for allegedly impregnating teenager in his church - The pastor had allegedly charmed the young girl to have intercourse with her - It was gathered that he had been arrested while he was in possession of some fetish items A pastor in Benin, Edo state, has been arrested by the police after he was accused of impregnating a teenage member of his church. The pastor identified as Ekene Samuel was arrested with some fetish items in his possession. It was gathered that the accused pastor is the general overseer of Gloryland Church in Benin. Reports state that the pastor had also helped the young girl identified as Miracle terminate the baby. According to reports, the pastor was arrested after a man identified as Henry Aikhuman reported that Miracle had gone missing. Miracle had later been found at Graceville Medical Centre on a sick bed. Pastor gets arrested for allegedly impregnating teenage member, caught with charms Facebook source: Cliff Odebala Clarke Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Nurse sells newborn baby for N350k after telling the mother she had a stillborn (photos, video) The doctors at the hospital told the police that Miracle was brought in by a deaconess, Happy Johnson, from Gloryland Church. It was alleged that the pastor had charmed Miracle into sleeping with him in December, 2018. Pastor Samuel was arrested while he was in possession of some fetish items, in his residence. PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app Some Nigerians took to Facebook to share their thoughts on the pastor's arrest. They expressed shame at what the pastor did. READ ALSO: Forbes Top 10 Wealthiest Celebrities In 2018 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 a similar story of a pastor in the same state caught with fetish items. The Edo pastor had been caught by local security men with a bag filled with ladies' underwear. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better BUSTED: Police Parade Man for molesting 78-year-old woman - on Legit TV Source: Legit.ng - A young Nigerian man has put himself in trouble after he got into an accident - The man had reportedly crashed a borrowed Mercedes Benz in Benin - It was gathered that there were no causalities from the accident and the man survived with minor injuries This year 2019, began with a trend among Nigerian youth about acquiring a Mercedes Benz car. It began as a joke when Nigerian youth talk about making it this year, you have probably heard one or two persons say "we go buy Benz this year". It could be assumed that the youth choose Benz as the go to because Mercedes is one of the car manufacturing companies producing the best and most expensive cars in the world. A young man has put himself in serious trouble after he reportedly crashed a Mercedes Benz he borrowed in Benin, Edo state. It could be assumed that the young man borrowed the Benz to feel among the we go buy Benz crew. Nigerian man reportedly crashes borrowed Mercedes Benz in Benin Facebook source: Sapele Oghenek Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Sneaky women caught on camera using little baby to steal clothes (video) This, however, might be referred to as the man biting more than he can chew. Legit.ng had come across the story on Facebook. According to Facebook user, Sapele Oghenek, the young man had crashed the car into a block industry truck. Ogheneke claimed that the driver had been driving above the speed limit when he crashed the car. PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app The man survived the accident with minor injuries Facebook source: Sapele Oghenek Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Beyonce, Taylor Swift, and Other Celebrities Who Have Crashed Normal People's Weddings The Facebook user revealed that nobody got hurt or died from the accident. From photos shared, it could be seen that the driver had survived the accident with minor injuries. PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group Read post below: READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously published a similar story a man in Ghana. The Ghanaian man had reportedly borrowed a car to go to a funeral, but unfortunately for him, the vehicle caught fire on his way there. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better BUSTED: Police Parade Uber Driver for Allegedly Stealing Owner's Car - on Legit TV Source: Legit Social media was set on a frenzy some days ago, after a young Nollywood actress shared photos of a luxury mansion she just gifted to her beloved mum. The teen actress identified as Regina Daniels, took to her Instagram page with photos of the mansion she acquired on behalf of her mother. She noted that the gift was a token of her appreciation to the woman who birthed her. In a new development, the successful actress has once again taken to social media with the news of a luxury multi-million naira automobile she just acquired. Posting the photo, she accompanied it with a caption in which she noted that her new baby had just arrived. She said: "My mini baby is here " See her post below: PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group This is coming as a surprise for many, as the young actress had only just spent several millions of naira acquiring a house gift for her mum. Some of her followers took to the comment section to congratulate her. PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app See comments below: chinamaccollins: CONGRATULATIONS MY DAUGHTER veekayhairlounge: Congratulations sweetie keep it up iamolyeminet: Congratulations sweetheart more wins eva_collectionss: God is really good to u...congratulations dear....u deserved it and even more floral.best: Congrats dear i tap to your blessings my children will make me proud just like the way you are making your momma proud berna_wa_mutu: Gina Gina. Firstly was Benz, second a mansio and now what is the name of this car baby ur too much ooh Our God bless you abundantly baby READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda Meanwhile, Legit.ng had previously gathered the report of a viral video which caused a stir after it surfaced in the online community. In the video, a man had launched a barrage of lethal kicks on a helpless 78-year-old woman. Many on social media had expressed disapproval of onlookers who had not made any attempt in stopping the assault, but rather resorted to cheering on and making videos. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better Nigeria Celebrities: How Much Do They Spend On Luxury Life? | Legit TV Source: Legit Loading up a hook with sweet corn was the secret to success Saturday for Liam Williams, 12, and 6-year-old Finnegan Williams at Monocacy Park in Bethlehem. The brothers spent the morning with their grandpa during Pennsylvania's first mentored youth trout fishing day of 2019. "The whole premise was to get the kids out before the pressure of opening day," Pennsylvania Waterways Conservation Officer Jeff Sabo said as he chatted with a handful of families out by mid-morning along the Monocacy Creek. Started about five years ago, mentored youth trout fishing day comes a week before the start of trout season in Pennsylvania. In the southeastern region covering Lehigh and Northampton counties, the trout opener is Saturday, March 30. For the rest of the state, mentored youth day is April 6 followed by the start of trout season April 13. New Jersey's trout season starts Saturday, April 6. In Pennsylvania, mentored youth anglers must be accompanied by a licensed adult angler and can keep up to two trout, as long as theyre at least 7 inches long. A free permit is required that families can print at home, or Pennsylvania offers a $2.90 voluntary youth license. For every one of these licenses purchased, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission receives $5 back in a federal reimbursement to support youth outreach and education programs. Liam Williams, 12, and his 6-year-old brother, Finnegan, celebrate a rainbow trout reeled in with their grandpa during mentored youth fishing day Saturday, March 23, 2019, at Monocacy Park in Bethlehem. Liam and Finnegan reeled in a couple of nice rainbows Saturday. One of Finnegan's flopped back into the stream before a photo could be snapped. The water was running high and it was a little cloudy after rain Thursday and Friday, making bait the better choice than spinners, the anglers said. "Right now we're using some salmon eggs and that's what we caught our first one on," said Troy Behn, of Northampton. "Before we used some worms but they didn't do anything," said his 6-year-old son, Will. It was also pretty chilly, with air temperatures in the upper 30s. Winds that had picked up overnight were still blowing around 20 mph from the northwest, and gusting into the low 30s. "The water's pretty high right now," said Michael Subjin, of Bethlehem. "Yesterday it was very muddy, today it seems to be clearing up." He said he and his son Matt, 14, were using "normal opening day stuff here for Monocacy: Power Bait and bread seems to work because people feed the ducks upstream." They also brought some mealy worms and red worms to see what works. This is like our opening day spot, Matt said. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. How do you stop someone from calling 911? Its not that Easton EMS or the citys police department want people to stop calling. In fact, officials asked about 911 super users repeatedly stressed that people need to call 911 in an emergency. Were not deterring people who genuinely think theyre sick, even if theyre sick multiple times, from calling, said Bud Shull, president of the Easton squads board of directors. Its people who realize -- or should realize -- they dont need EMS services, blatantly misusing it. Misuse of 911 can range from people using EMS for a ride, callers with mental health issues, or people who regularly call because theyre lonely, Shull said. Misuse of the 911 system is rare, Easton police Capt. David Beitler said, but the city now has two cases where people are accused of repeatedly calling 911 for emergencies when there wasnt one. Not for one or two calls, but about 10 calls over a few days, or close to 50 calls over a few months. Anytime were dispatched by the county, we have to go, said Joseph Cervenka, director of Easton EMSs operations. If a higher priority call comes in, and were committed to a patient, were committed to that (first) patient. That means Easton EMS may depend on help from Suburban EMS and Bethlehem Township Volunteer Fire Company, and sometimes time is of the essence, Cervenka said. If the caller requests to go the hospital, we have to take them to the hospital, he added. Cervenka said using 911 for non-emergency medical calls is more common, but then there are people who call for EMS when theres no medical issue at all. We are just lucky our police department is taking an aggressive approach, he said. That approach includes Easton police filing criminal charges in certain cases. Calling 911 for shelter, or because theyre bored Two people are currently facing criminal charges, accused of misusing 911 in Bethlehem and Easton. Glen Lorish has been charged twice, and is in Northampton County Prison awaiting resolution in his most recent case. Last June, Lorish was charged after calling for emergency services in Bethlehem 30 times over six weeks. Lorish reportedly told workers with Lehigh Valley Assertive Community Treatment, which serves people mental health issues, that he called 911 because he was bored, or hungry, or needed a place to sleep. He was charged with two counts each of false alarm to a public agency, harassment and intentionally calling 911 for non-emergency purposes. Lorish pleaded guilty in Northampton County Court to the two counts of intentionally calling 911 for non-emergency purposes, and was sentenced to one year of probation. Fast forward to December, where Lorish was charged with the same issue, this time in Easton. Easton police said he called 911 more than 40 times. After Lorish, 40, would be taken to a hospital and no medical issues were found, police said he would be released and then immediately call 911 to be taken to a different hospital. Police said they checked 911 call logs and found Lorishs calls on some nights would be within one hour of each other. Lorishs newest case was sent to Northampton County Court, where he is awaiting a mental health evaluation to determine if his case will go to mental health court. His attorney, Rory Driscole, said he doesnt believe Lorish is maliciously calling 911. I believe in his mind he really thinks he is having a medical emergency, Driscole said. I do not think theres malicious intent here whatsoever. Driscole said he recognizes the toll it takes on EMS to answer emergency calls that turn out to not be emergencies. This is dangerous for them to have to deal with these calls, and it takes away from actual calls, he said. Driscole said Lorish has struggled without mental health treatment and, after he picked up the second case, Driscole knew his charges should be addressed through mental health court. Asked if the issue with Lorish should involve the court, Driscole said criminal courts are becoming a place where we have to deal with people with mental health problems. Applying for mental health court is similar to filing for the first-time offender program. Defendants submit an application to the district attorneys office, which can either approve it or deny it. An approved application then goes to a county judge for final approval. Once a defendant is in mental health court, they work one-on-one with a social worker, check in with probation on a weekly basis, and come to court every other week to let the judge know how treatment is working, said Driscole, who is part of the mental health court team. For now, Lorish is being held in prison, for violating his probation in the first case and waiting to resolve his second case. A second defendant More recently, Kristen Anne Zona was charged with a similar crime in Easton. Zona, who is listed as homeless in court paperwork, called 911 several times over two days, and the last call in the early morning of March 10 was the last straw. At about 1:26 a.m., police and EMS were called to the Wawa off Larry Holmes Drive for a woman with a reported medical emergency, and found the 46-year-old Zona. Zona had been released several hours earlier for another medical emergency, police said. Police said no medical emergency would be found, Zona would get released and then immediately call 911 for another ride to a hospital. Beitler said different officers would respond to the calls made over various shifts, so officers went back to look through emergency dispatch logs and saw the patterns of repeated calls with no emergency. The department then conferred with the district attorneys office, and the criminal charges were filed. Cervenka said Lorish and Zona are the first people charged since he became director. He said since officers come out on calls, they pick up when someone may not have a medical emergency. Asked how prevalent 911 misuse is, Nate Wardel, spokesman for the state Department of Health, said the department and the local EMS council both believe these are isolated incidents, and not indicative of an increase in this type of behavior in the region or statewide. Asked if the department has provided guidance to EMS on how to address repeat 911 callers, Wardel said because the department believes the issue is isolated, we do not believe that a policy or guidance is needed at this time. The Cost Cases of repeat 911 callers -- sometimes called super users or frequent fliers -- can be found across the country. In Washington, D.C. a woman became notorious for the hundreds of calls she made to 911 after falling. In 2013, the citys Department of Behavioral Health sought guardianship for Martha Rigsby, saying she had bipolar and borderline personality disorders and did not have the mental capacity to handle her medical affairs, according to The Washington Post. More recently, in February, a woman was arrested and charged in Decatur, Illinois, after allegedly calling 911 24 times over six months, and responders finding no emergency. Easton EMS officials said unfounded calls take a toll -- not just on EMS, but the 911 center taking the calls, Easton police officers who respond, and the hospitals where the patients are taken. Easton EMS is a private nonprofit organization incorporated in 1958., and officials said there is a shortage of EMS and paramedics in the area, with a lot of them working for multiple organizations. You dont need that kind of additional burden to reduce your resources further, he said of the unfounded calls. The government reimbursement for calls is pretty minimal," added Shull, who previously served as a Wilson cop and an Easton firefighter. The squad deals with paying for heat and electricity for its building, fuel for the vehicles and paying EMTs, paramedics and building staff. Its really quite expensive to have a unit just go out the door, Shull said. And with billing, EMS can only be reimbursed for a true medical emergency, and can usually only bill for a patient once per day, Cervenka said. Minor calls, multiple times a week, thats when its complicated, Cervenka said. But police and EMS officials still urge people to call 911, and they will respond. If somebody believes they are having a true medical emergency, they still need to call. Its people who are calling for something other than immediate medical care, Cervenka said. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Lehigh County authorities announced the arrest Saturday of a suspect in a fatal shooting last month of a warehouse worker. Gustavo Velez, of Allentown, will be charged with homicide in the death of Nestor Luis Ortiz DeLeon the night of Feb. 24 at Customized Distribution Services in Upper Macungie Township, authorities said in a news release. DeLeon, 44, also of Allentown, was reporting to work at the warehouse when he was shot, Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin and township police Chief Edgardo Colon say in the release. Following a four-week investigation described as intensive, authorities determined Velez lay in wait that night for DeLeon's arrival at the CDS warehouse, according to the release. "In building the case, investigators pursued video surveillance evidence from the general locale of CDS and phone records of the defendant and others," Martin and Colon say in the release. "In addition, of interest was a yellow Mitsubishi Eclipse which was observed on video in the vicinity of CDS at or about the time of this homicide and which was subsequently stopped for a traffic violation in Elizabeth, New Jersey." DeLeon was unconscious and unresponsive when police responded to the shooting and was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital, Salisbury Township, where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy found he died of a gunshot wound to the head, and the death was ruled a homicide. Authorities did not identify a motive in the killing. Velez was arrested Saturday morning at home in the 1300 block of Chew Street. He was slated to be arraigned Saturday before District Judge David Howells on the homicide count and sent to Lehigh County Jail. There is no bail allowed in homicide cases. A preliminary hearing will be scheduled to determine if there is sufficient evidence to send the case toward trial in Lehigh County Court. Velez is also charged with illegal possession of a firearm, a felony, according to Saturdays release. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. New Jersey lawmakers and Gov. Phil Murphy continued to work behind the scenes last week to secure support for legalizing adult recreational marijuana use and sales, nj.com reports. Two state legislative committees on March 18 approved the weed bill, setting up votes on final approval Monday, March 25. Not everyone is on board, with Warren County Republican Sen. Mike Doherty saying backroom dealing by Trenton Democrats over legalization is almost certain to lead to more drug dealing in communities across New Jersey. In Pennsylvania, two state senators sent a memo to colleagues March 18 seeking co-sponsors on measure to legalize marijuana in the Keystone State, as well. The Pennsylvania proposal comes as Lt. Gov. John Fetterman continues his visits to all 67 counties on a listening tour to gather public input on legalizing cannabis. His Lehigh and Northampton county stops are expected in early April, his office has said. Pennsylvanias proposal also has its detractors, including Republican state Sen. Mike Folmer, whose support for medical marijuana helped turn that bill into reality, Lebanon Daily News reports. Folrmer, who represents Lebanon in addition to parts of Dauphin and York counties, told the newspaper last week nothing hes seen in the new Senate proposal would lift his opposition to recreational use. Democratic Sens. Daylin Leach and Sharif Street said March 18 they would soon introduce a bill to end Pennsylvanias prohibition on cannabis. According to their cosponsorship memo, some aspects of their proposal include: Allowing private consumption of cannabis by anyone who is 21 years old or more. Allowing people to grow up to six cannabis plants in their homes for personal use. Automatically expunging previous criminal convictions for cannabis-related offenses and commute sentences resulting from such convictions. Allowing micro-growers to grow cannabis in their homes and sell the cannabis to processors and dispensaries. State Rep. Jake Wheatley Jr. introduced a House bill, HB 50, with some of the same goals. Both the House and Senate proposals would have this year and most of 2020 to be considered by the Republican-controlled Legislature. On the expungement front, New Jerseys legalization proposal would allow people to clear convictions for distributing up to one ounce of marijuana and possessing up to five pounds of weed, according to nj.com. Marijuana prohibition has failed, state Sen. Nicholas Scutari, D-Union, said in a statement celebrating last weeks committee approvals. It is time to end the detrimental effect these archaic drug laws are having on our residents and make adult use marijuana legal. "This bill will create a strictly regulated system that permits adults to purchase limited amounts of marijuana for personal use. It will bring marijuana out of the underground market so that it can be controlled, regulated and taxed, just as alcohol has been for decades." Including Pennsylvania and New Jersey, 34 states plus the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have medical marijuana programs, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Colorado, Vermont, Massachusetts, Maine, D.C. and Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. territory, also approved recreational use by adults ages 21 and older. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A 32-year-old Monroe County woman was charged Friday with homicide in the shooting death of her boyfriend earlier this month. Sandra Delvalle told investigators she shot and killed Joevandie Latorre, 41, during an argument in which he charged at her with a kitchen knife, according to Pocono Township police. Latorre died at the scene of the March 13 incident in the home they shared on Timberline Drive in East Stroudsburg, Pocono Township, according to police. The cause was a single gunshot wound to the chest, the Monroe County Coroner's Office found. She was arraigned Friday on the single count of homicide and ordered held without the possibility of bail in Monroe County prison. A preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled April 2 before District Judge Daniel Kresge. Court records did not immediately list an attorney for Delvalle. Township police said they were assisted in the investigation by Pennsylvania State Police and the Monroe County Coroners and District Attorneys offices. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A man who was sharing cannabis cakes with his friends has been given a suspended sentence for drug dealing. Lukasz Krol (31), 2 Jessop Street, Portlaoise, charged with drug possession, having drugs for sale or supply, and obstructing the gardai. Sgt JJ Kirby gave evidence that on August 13 last year, at Jessop Street, Portlaoise, the gardai searched the accuseds home and found 29g of cannabis, as well as drug paraphernalia. The accused told gardai that he paid 700 for the drugs. He had nine previous convictions, including four for drugs offences. Defence, Mr Declan Breen said the accused panicked on the day and ran to the back of the premises where he tried to get rid of the drugs. Mr Breen said the accused, a Polish national living in Ireland since 2006, had previously been employed before medical issues including a knee injury left him in a lot of pain, so he started using cannabis to medicate himself by making cannabis cakes. Mr Breen said the accused admitted sharing these cannabis cakes with his friends. Defence also said the accused is in a long-term relationship and is the main carer for his children. He said the accused is now clear of drugs. Judge Catherine Staines said sale or supply of drugs is a very serious charge. However, she accepted that the accused had pleaded guilty and is clean of drugs. The judge imposed a six-month sentence, suspended for one year . X The French Ambassador to Ireland was welcomed at St Farnans Post Primary in Prosperous on March 11. The visit came after Tanya Flanagan, head of modern languages in St Farnans, was awarded the prestigious title of Chevalier dans lOrdre des Palmes Academiques by the French government at the French embassy in Dublin for her work in the area of language teaching and the promotion of language learning in Ireland. She invited the French ambassador to Ireland, Stephane Crouzat, to visit the school. The ambassador was greeted by the schools senior prefects. He met principal, Eddie Collins, and the chair of the schools board of management, Brendan Weld. He was treated to an excellent performance from the schools traditional music group. Six students made a presentation in French (spoken by 300 million people in 50 countries) and Polish, the latter in honour of the ambassadors Polish heritage. Ms Flanagan thanked him for coming during the celebration of La Francophonie March. Mr Collins said they were very proud of Ms Flanagan and the award she had received from the French government. Mr Crouzat complimented the warm welcome he had received from the students and staff. The ambassador acknowledged Ms Flanagans award. He complimented her on her dedication to language teaching both in St Farnans outside of her school life. Irish Rail said it is considering a temporary multi-storey car park as a possible solution to problems caused by the lack of parking spaces at Sallins train station. Similar structures are in place in a number of locations across Europe. These car parks need no foundations, are modular and pre-built as well as being removable and reusable. The Green partys County Kildare chair Vincent P Martin, who uses the station frequently, has put this forward as a solution to the chronic shortage of car parking for the time being. Mr Martin, a candidate in the Naas area in the forthcoming local elections, said that the lack of adequate car parking spaces at the station has caused many daily rail commuters to abandon using public transport compelling them instead to spend countless more hours having to travel by car to work. He has called on Irish Rail to install the temporary park up ready-made multi-storey car parking facility, which is readily available for renting. He said that installing a certified parking system which comes pre-built and becomes stable on the ground by its own weight is, subject to compliance with planning, a real, viable solution. Mr Martin added it is assembled without foundation and once the temporary parking is no longer required, it can easily be removed with the area restored to it original condition. He said the transport authorities have not taken adequate measures to deal with significant local population increase. Many train users have paid an annual parking fee for a facility which they can no longer use. Irish Rail should pay for the provision of this emergency and temporary additional parking. He added: Kildare is the fastest growing commuter county in the country. Nevertheless he accepts Irish Rail has had to contend with years of underinvestment from government and has been unable to cope with this crisis. Irish Rail spokesman Barry Kenny said this solution will be considered. While we are working to expand Sallins car park, and are engaging with the council to progress this, I will forward this to our programme manager looking after car park expansion for his consideration. Ill let you know when I receive his feedback, he stated. Residents opposed to a new road - which Kildare County Council says will ease traffic congestion in Naas - have appealed for a large turnout for a public meeting in the Osprey Hotel on Monday (7.30pm). The residents, mainly those loving in close proximity to the planned road (which will connect Dublin Road with Blessington Road along a route on the town side of Naas racecourse), have urged those who are affected by the route to attend. The Combined Estates Group said it beggars belief that this is the best Kildare County Council could come up with for the severely congested traffic problem in Naas. It shows total disregard to thousands of the towns residents. Instead CEG says KCC should be fighting for funding to build a proper ring road system. It describes the planned road as outdated and unfit for purpose. In a statement CEG said: Naas will continue to have a major and severe traffic problem for years to come, unless proper infrastructure is put in place. This route will travel right beside hundreds of residential homes. It is outrageous that Kildare County Council think that re-routing traffic and heavy vehicles from the town centre and placing them on top of established residential estates is the way to enhance Naas. The noise, dust, pollution, vibration and speeding that this road will cause, if it proceeds, will be devastating to the residents quality of life. Whie some councillors agree with CEG, others are in favour of the road. Cllr Fintan Brett fully supports it. He said the road will take a lot of traffic including heavy lorries off Dublin Road and he also said that many residents now opposed to the road knew some time ago it was planned. They knew this would be where the inner relief road went, he said. If it doesnt go ahead he said Itll mean that all the traffic coming into Naas will continue to go all the way in to the Tesco junction before turning left or going through Naas. KCC has insisted that the road is needed to alleviate congestion and that 17,000 vehicles pass through the town daily. It also points out that the town is set to grow to a population of 30,000 in four years. READ ALSO A major 2-4 million medical centre is in the pipeline for Naas READ ALSO Sallins footpath and pedestrian crossing works to begin next Monday RTE and Rose of Tralee presenter, Daithi O Se, is calling on the nation to host a Tea Day in aid of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI). Alzheimers Tea Day, the charitys largest annual fundraising campaign takes place on Thursday, May 2, 2019. The ASI aims to raise 500,000 to provide supports and services to help families living with dementia nationwide. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of Alzheimers Tea Day. The inaugural Alzheimers Tea Day took place in 1994. The Tea Day campaign provides vital funds for truly important services, which include: nationwide day care centres, respite, home care, social clubs, carer support groups, Alzheimer cafes and the busy National Helpline. Every year, thousands of people around the country get involved with local Tea Day events in their homes, workplaces, schools, local community centres, parishes or somewhere special. The ASI is asking people to invite their friends, family, colleagues and neighbours to have a cuppa, a chat and maybe a treat or two. Get involved and host a tea party by visiting www.teaday.ie and simply register your details to receive a Tea Day pack the pack includes an A3 poster, an invitation book, a collection box, 5 books of raffle tickets, a bank giro and fun tips on hosting a Tea Day event. Registration deadline is Friday, April 26. Last year there were 1,200 Tea Day hosts and this year the Charity is looking to double that number. 441 living with dementia in Leitrim It is estimated that there are 441 people living with dementia in Leitrim and for every one person with dementia three others are directly affected. The number of people with dementia is expected to more than double over the next 20 years to 882 in 2039. All funds that are raised locally stay local to support ASI services. - 10 can provide an hour at an Alzheimers cafe for a person with dementia - 25 can provide one hour of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy - 50 can provide a session of Musical Therapy to people with dementia - 100 can run a social club for one day The Alzheimer Society of Ireland Ambassador, Daithi O Se said: "Dementia is something that could affect any of us some day and did you know that for every one person diagnosed with dementia, three people are directly affected and that could be you or your loved ones? What alarms me is that the 441 figure is set to double in the next 20 years. But by taking part in this campaign you are helping to raise vital funds and awareness of a condition that is affecting so many of our family, friends and neighbours. Whats important to remember is that money raised locally stays locally, so by getting involved youll be supporting your own community. "Remember that no Tea Day party is too small or too big, so join the hundreds of hosts from around the country and register for your pack at www.teaday.ie. For more information, to get involved or to register for an Alzheimers Tea Day pack, visit www.teaday.ie or call (01) 207 3833. Follow ASI on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/ TheAlzheimerSocietyofIreland/, Twitter @alzheimerSocIre, #TeaDay2019 #TimeForTea Instagram:@alzheimersocirl You never know how strong you are until you have to be a statement that will be associated with our Niamh forever. Niamh passed away on March 29, 2018 after a nine month battle with cancer. During the early months of 2017 Niamh had been experiencing some pain in her lower back area which was hoped to be bulging discs or sciatica but after travelling on a foreign holiday in June we thought a MRI must be sought to establish what was the cause of Niamhs pain as she was in severe discomfort for the majority of our family holiday. On June 29 Niamhs cancer journey began, the day she went for her MRI. This was followed with blood tests, CT scans and biopsies and on July 5 2017 she was told she had a tumour on her left pelvic bone. Niamh described that day as the day her life would change forever in her blog Niamhs Journey There. Niamh began to share her story through her blog with her first post on July 17, 2017. She was in the very early stages of her diagnosis when she began her blog but she found great comfort in sharing her story, hoping it would help someone else that may be in the same situation as herself. Through her blogging she was commended by many for her ability to tell her story, her courageousness in fighting her illness and her honesty. At first doctors found it difficult to determine the exact type of bone cancer Niamh had, it was suggested it could be Chondrosarcoma, Ewings Sarcoma or Osteosarcoma. Niamh received her cancer diagnosis in Sligo General Hospital and frequented the hospital for pain relieve. It was suggested here that she travel to the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham for a biopsy. After Niamh returned from Birmingham, she was in The Mater Hospital, for her chemotherapy and then onto St Luke's Hospital in Dublin where she received her radiotherapy. We Niamhs parents, Denis and Liz, sister Emma and brother David would like to thank each and every nurse and doctor that cared for Niamh in anyway during her times in the different hospitals. We would also like to express our gratitude to Niamhs own GP Dr Marian Brogan along with the public health nurse and the pallative home care team for their care and support. Through her Facebook page and blog Niamh had all of the hard work of highlighting her illness done. We as a family were really facing the unknown as in what treatment Niamh would need, where would we have to travel to seek the appropriate treatment, how much was it going to cost, etc, so with the help of family, friends and neighbours a Go Fund Me page along with a fundraising committee were set up. The support and generosity of people was over-whelming and it would be impossible for us to thank each person individually. We would like to thank all the people who contributed to the Go Fund Me page so generously. Thank you to the Niamhs Journey There committee, for your support of our family, your time and hard work in co-ordinating events. There were a number of events organised in a matter of days of the fundraising campaign being launched and we would like to sincerely thank each and every person who organised an event in aid of Niamh. Thank you for thinking of Niamh and getting behind our fundraising efforts, thank you for your hard work and effort in organising your event, thank you to the people who helped you in organising your event and thank you to the people who supported your event. No event went unnoticed, and we would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your hard work and efforts. We will never be able to repay your kindness and generosity but will always remember you in our prayers. Niamh was over whelmed with the support and kindness shown to her throughout her illness, it gave her great encouragement, strength and determination to fight on. Through all the different fundraising efforts a significant amount of money was raised. This fundraising money was raised in the hope of travelling abroad for treatment, but unfortunately it was not to be. The remaining funds have been donated to the following charities: The North West Hospice, Sligo Hospital Oncology Unit Trust SHOUT, The Irish Cancer Society, The Mater Foundation, St Vincents Foundation, and The friends of St Lukes, Rathgar, The Cancer Support Centre Sligo and a number of cancer patients Niamh had been in contact with through her blog. Niamh fought to the very end with a smile on her face. She published what was to be her last blog post on March 2, 2018 and called it Twenty and My Journey Continues. This blog was described as a frank and moving blog post and one thing she hoped people would take from reading it was Do what YOU want and what makes YOU happy. Niamhs first anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, March 30 at 1:00pm in St Attractas Church, Killaraght, Boyle, Co Sligo. -The Flanagan Family IT HAS been revealed that an extra 200 million annually has been requested by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government to fund the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan Scheme up until 2021, but the government position on the future of the scheme remains unclear, according to Fianna Fail TD Niall Collins. Commenting on the matter, Deputy Collins said that in response to a recent parliamentary question submitted by Fianna Fail, Minister Donohoe has confirmed that the Department of Housing has sought an additional 600m for the loan scheme up to year 2021. However, there is no indication as to whether this request will be approved or even when a decision will be made, Deputy Collins said. In the past number of weeks, I have been contacted by many anxious prospective homebuyers who have applied for funding under the scheme. They are now left in the dark, with no indication as to whether additional funding will be made available under the scheme. We are told there is a review of the scheme underway but we have scant details of the nature of this review, he added. Deputy Collins said It shouldnt come as such a surprise to the government that the original funding allocation of 200m would be used up so quickly. Ministers Donohoe and Murphy need to conclude this review without delay and to provide clarity to all the prospective home buyers interested in the scheme, said Deputy Collins. Fianna Fail has written to the Governor of the Central Bank in an effort to establish whether the Central Bank supports an expansion of this loan scheme. The Central Banks position on the potential expansion of the scheme will be pivotal as the loans granted under the scheme fall outside the Banks own macro-prudential rules, he added. Deputy Collins also claimed that across eight years in power, Fine Gael have built no affordable housing and their attempt to provide access to credit for first-time buyers has left a sour taste for many. A MAN who is accused of stabbing another man in the head last summer is facing trial before the Central Criminal Court after he was charged with attempted murder. Thomas Power, 27, who has an address at Johnsgate Village, Limerick was previously charged with assault following incident which happened at a green area at Woodbine Avenue, Caherdavin in the early hours of August 20, last. The 23-year-old victim sustained life-threatening injuries and was treated at Cork University Hospital (CUH) following the incident which happened just hours after Limericks historic victory over Galway in the All-Ireland hurling final at Croke Park. Mr Power, who is represented by solicitor Michael ODonnell, was previously charged with assault causing harm. The attempted murder charge was preferred by gardai earlier this month on the instructions of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Sergeant Sean Murray has confirmed the matter is to proceed on indictment before the Central Criminal Court. The defendant is also charged under the Non Fatal Offences Act with assaulting another young man, causing him harm, at the same location on the same date. While that man, who is aged 23, was also treated at CUH his injuries were not as serious. The defendant, who has been granted conditional bail by the High Court, is due to appear before Limerick District Court again next week. Once the book of evidence is completed and served on Mr Power, the case will then be sent forward for trial. The matter is due before Limerick District Court again next week for a procedural hearing. A NEW regional strategy must include plans to bring up to 60,000 more people to live in the city centre, the Limerick Chamber has said. The business group has put together a comprehensive submission to the controversial Regional Strategic and Economic (Rses) plan, which many fear will see Cork develop at Limericks expense. In a submission to the Southern Regional Assembly, members of which will ultimately decide on the final blueprint, the Limerick Chamber teamed up with Liveable Limerick to outline four things to get people back living in Limericks urban centre. Initiatives include making units in Georgian Limerick, developing lands at the Docklands and the former Greenpark Racecourse, the continued regeneration process, and crucially, putting in place a transport strategy for the area. Chamber economist Catriona Cahill, who has led the submission, said: Limerick probably has the greatest potential for delivering inner-city living. The other cities Waterford, Galway, Dublin and Cork] are more developed in terms of high density than Limerick is. We have an urban fabric which can easily be adapted. She suggested any city centre living be mixed use, in terms of home ownership, rental, social and affordable housing. Meanwhile, the group has also urged a rethinking of the citys retail offering, with Ms Cahill acknowledging that a joint retail strategy is to be part of the RSES when it goes live. However, until that happens, the Chamber wants to see experimental retail models in the city, and the implementation of a business improvement district scheme. She suggested, as more people migrate to do their shopping on the internet, to create a digital city centre, and for the emphasis to be placed on offering quality residential opportunities in the city which attract a high-spend demographic. A major improvement on transport must also come about, Ms Cahill added, saying: We want frequent services, and an efficient public transport service. We have ideas around the delivery of whether it should be Bus Eireann or private operators, with the contracts going out to tender. We have views on this, we have research done, which we are currently holding back on and will release into the future. The fact Foynes is not included in the regional strategy which will be decided upon by members of the Southern Assembly in the coming months did not warrant a mention was criticised by the Chamber economist. She said: It has huge potential, particularly with Brexit, if there is more congestion in Dublin, it could support [expansion]. We dont know what will happen with Brexit, or the impact it will have on Dublin Port. Even now, if you have cargo coming in, the road congestion which exists there, you dont have the same in Foynes. Meanwhile, the Chamber also calls for the importance of University Hospital Limerick to be better recognised in the strategy. * For an interview with Caitriona: Business Leader, p16 When geologist William King introduced a new species of human, Homo neanderthalensis, to the European scientific community in 1864, he wasn't very generous toward our extinct evolutionary cousins. "I feel myself constrained to believe that the thoughts and desires which once dwelt within it never soared beyond those of a brute," King concluded after examining the skull that had been found in the Neander Valley, Germany, a decade earlier. It was a lousy, and lasting, first impression. Thus, "Neanderthal" became not only a new species, but a pejorative term. However, research has come a long way since then: So how smart were the Neanderthals, based on what we know today? [The 10 Biggest Mysteries of the First Humans] An ongoing riddle Anthropologists' early perception of Neanderthals was partly rooted in racist ideology that one's intelligence or humanity could be assessed from skull shape, said Joao Zilhao, a professor at the Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA) at the University of Barcelona. Many of those scientists also shared a view that evolution was all about progress, and that ancestral human species like Neanderthals were necessarily much more "primitive" than humans are today. Those assumptions have been discredited (if not hard to shake from Western science and pop culture). Humbling new discoveries over the past few decades have helped to rehabilitate Neanderthals' reputation as people who were a lot like us. "The only way to assess their intelligence whatever that means, but that's a different issue is by what they did," Zilhao told Live Science. And it turns out that Neanderthals did a lot of things that were once thought to be exclusive to modern human culture. They worked stones and bones into tools and ornaments much like the kind created by modern humans who were alive at the same time. (Neanderthals lived in Europe and Southwest Asia from about 400,000 to 40,000 years ago.) They invented glue using tar from birch bark to attach wooden handles to stones. They made necklaces from eagle talons. Neanderthals used fire to cook food, and new studies on stone tools suggest they had the technology to spark fires, too. (In other words, they didn't just have to chase embers when lightning struck to fuel their hearths.) Some evidence suggests Neanderthals also had spiritual and ritual practices. Tombs discovered at sites like La Chapelle-aux-Saints in southwestern France show that these archaic humans buried their dead. At another site in France, researchers discovered that Neanderthals descended deep inside a cave and created enigmatic stone circles out of stalagmites 176,000 years ago. The extent of Neanderthals' symbolic abilities is still debated; they were alive at the same time as modern humans were creating some of the first abstract and figurative cave art, but few artworks have been attributed to these people. However, in 2018, in a win for the Neanderthals, researchers reported that 65,000-year-old abstract images in Spanish caves must have been created by Neanderthals. (Scientists think that modern humans didn't get to Western Europe until about 42,000 years ago.) Based on their bones, we know that Neanderthals were capable of at least making complex sounds. It's hard to prove that Neanderthals had language because they didn't leave us any writings (although neither did anatomically modern humans from the same period). But some researchers have argued that they probably did have sophisticated ways of communicating. What's more, genetic evidence has shown that modern humans mated with Neanderthals before these individuals disappeared about 40,000 years ago. Many of us today still have 1 to 2 percent Neanderthal DNA, findings that suggest that modern humans who encountered these individuals saw them as people, too. Originally published on Live Science. ALBANY More than 100 local students in grades 6 to 12 participated in the Capital Region History Day competition at the State Museum in Albany on Saturday. Working individually or in groups, the students researched and presented their findings in one of five formats: exhibit, documentary, paper, website or theatrical performance. The national theme for this year's History Day competition was "Triumph and Tragedy." Among the dozens of student-made exhibitions displayed on the museum's fourth floor for public viewing on Saturday were "Loving v. Virginia: A Triumph Full of Tragedy," about the 1967 Supreme Court decision that struck down all state laws banning interracial marriage; a multimedia setup about the history of the cotton gin that included text, photos, video, raw cotton and a miniature replica of a cotton gin; and a display titled "The Creation of the Atomic Bomb: Scientific Triumph or Human Tragedy." Three undocumented immigrants were found in a stash house in central Laredo living in "deplorable conditions," according to Border Patrol. The incident occurred Sunday when Laredo police officers stopped a vehicle seen leaving a residence in the 2700 block of San Eduardo Avenue. During their investigation, authorities were led to believe the residence was possibly being used for illicit activity. A man and his mother have been arrested after a boy was assaulted, forced to strip naked and held against his will, according to Laredo police. The man, Cesar Enrique Mata, 28, also recorded the incident and posted it on social media, police said. A second, unidentified male hit the 16-year-old in the back of the head with a rifle and pointed the weapon at him. The incident happened after Mata confronted the boy for trying to steal drugs from his home, according to an arrest affidavit. Mata's mother, Hermenia Montiel, 49, was present during the assault, police said. READ ALSO: LPD: Man accused of drugging woman's coffee, sexually assaulting her On Tuesday, Mata was arrested in the 3300 block of Santa Maria Avenue in connection with the case. He was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of child pornography and unlawful restraint of a person younger than 17 years old. He was held on a $225,000 bond. Also that day, Montiel was charged with failure to report a felony and held on a $20,000 bond. On Jan. 22, LPD investigators were dispatched to the 4200 block of Santa Maria Avenue for a report of a male runaway who had been located. The boy told them that he had been assaulted at an acquaintance's residence. Investigators noticed that part of his face was red and swollen. He also had a bump on the back of his head. The boy told the investigators that he had spent the night at an acquaintance's home near the corner of Lafayette and Juarez streets. He only knew him as "Flaco." LPD later identified "Flaco" as Mata. The boy told LPD that Mata had accused him of stealing clothes and other items. When Mata confronted him, another male showed up at the residence. The boy said Mata called him a "rata" multiple times and then struck him on the face with his hand, according to police. He said he was then ordered to strip naked. The other male claimed to be a "comandante" for Cartel Del Noreste, the boy told investigators. He allegedly struck the boy in the back of the head with a rifle. "He then added that he did not try to steal anything, which confused him as to why he was treated that way," the arrest affidavit said. "He also stated that he told both subjects that he wanted to go home but they would not let him leave." The boy told police that Mata's mother was present during the assault and did not try to stop it, according to the affidavit. He said the rifle was pointed at him while he sat on the floor. While speaking with the boy, investigators said they learned that there was a video on Facebook that showed him naked and sitting on the floor. Police later located Mata, who told them that the boy had tried stealing clothes and jewelry from him. He claimed that when he woke up around 6 a.m. Jan. 22, he saw the boy taking his clothes. He confronted him because of the attempted theft, Mata told police. According to investigators, Mata said he slapped him across the face but only to retrieve the property. READ ALSO: Report of 'screams and people crying' lead to multiple charges for Laredo man, police say Mata showed police the video that he had recorded of the boy. "(The boy) seemed scared and disturbed," police said. "Mata stated that in the video that (the boy) had tried stealing from him so as a lesson he slapped him in the face for being a 'rata.'" The video also showed the other male covering his face and holding a rifle. During the video, Mata said the boy had tried to steal his "frascos and hydro." Mata told police that he was referencing Xanax and marijuana. Mata was subsequently charged with possession of controlled substances, according to the affidavit. He provided to police the name of the other suspect, but police said they have not been able to locate him or confirm his identity. Mata's mother later told police that she did see her son hit the boy and the other male point the gun at him. She said she told them multiples times to let the boy go, but they would not listen to her, according to the affidavit. Hebbronville Border Patrol agents arrested a U.S. citizen with connections to a gang and two undocumented immigrants during a human smuggling attempt on a ranch near Hebbronville. READ ALSO: 13 gangs and cartels that are working together in Texas BRUMADINHO, Brazil - It was a quiet Friday in January when the residents here first heard the trees falling. A dam at the local iron ore mine had collapsed, generating a wave of toxic waste that crushed everything in its path. Residents tried to outrun the rust-red mud as it engulfed their homes, their cars, their pets. Almost 300 people were killed or went missing. The collapse was the second deadly dam disaster in Brazil in just three years. In 2015, a dam holding mineral waste burst, gushing toxic mud into a nearby river in Brazil's worst environmental disaster to date. Both dams were owned by Vale, the world's largest iron ore miner. Since January, Vale's chief executive and other leaders have stepped down, with documents revealing that the company knew the dam had a high risk of collapse before the disaster. The Brazilian government is investigating whether the company willfully misled officials about the dam's safety. Today, survivors are trying to rebuild their lives in a wasteland. Residents of Brumadinho had long feared that the dam above their town would break. Denisiana Franca, 39 and a member of Brumadinho's residents association, said Vale called a town meeting last year to present an escape route in case of emergencies. When she asked whether there was a risk that the dam could collapse, the company assured her that was impossible. In January, she was home alone when she noticed a drainpipe in her home start to shake. Then her phone rang: It was her boss's husband, who worked at the mine, telling her to run. "I went downstairs and everyone was crying, watching their houses being taken away," Franca said. "It was a horror scene. The mud took everything." She was able to get away from the sludge, but her cousin and a nephew were buried alive. Now, as she helps her neighbors rebuild their homes, she fears the long-term effects of the collapse. "The disaster broke the town's spirit," she said. "We lost the will to smile, to play. It was so peaceful here. Now we are fighting for space with vultures, who come after the dead animals and body parts in the river. The smell is unbearable." Father Andre Agostino Theotokos was at a nearby conference when he witnessed the disaster unfolding on television. The next day he traveled to the town to counsel families whose loved ones had disappeared and to organize donations. When he arrived, he was shocked. "It looked like the moon: the dryness, the silence, the pain. The emptiness of the scene hit my chest," he said. "It got me thinking of man's destructive power, of the greed and abuses in the mining sector." The dam, made out of hardened silt, is used to store waste produced by the iron ore mine. But because of the way they are constructed, the walls of the dam can liquefy and collapse after heavy rain. As the mud washed over Brumadinho, survivors of the 2015 dam disaster watched a replay of their tragedy on national television in disbelief. "I was revolted. The company didn't see what happened here as a warning and take precautions," said Tania Penna Carvalho, 51, whose husband, Daniel, drowned in waste when the first Vale dam burst in 2015. "It is awful. We know what these families are going through." Burkina Faso was supposed to take an important step Sunday toward democracy. The West African nation was expected to adopt presidential term limits through a long-anticipated national vote - even as Islamist violence gripped the countryside. But days before the polls were to open, the government has postponed that milestone indefinitely, and without explanation. Analysts had called the constitutional referendum a bright spot during turbulent times for the Colorado-sized nation. Extremist attacks in Burkina Faso have quadrupled since 2017, according to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies in Washington. "The country appears to be falling apart," said Michael Shurkin, a senior political scientist at the Rand Corp. "The relevance of the constitutional reforms in light of the security crisis is doubtful." The former French colony, where 80 percent of people work in farming, once appeared to be heading toward a more peaceful future. After protesters ousted authoritarian ruler Blaise Compaore in 2014, voter registration increased and leaders began debating political changes aimed at shaping a more representative government. Now a spreading insurgency appears to be threatening that progress. Deaths from terrorism in West Africa spiked in 2015, and continue to pose a stubborn problem for the international community. Until recently, the bloodshed was largely contained to Mali and Niger, where five militant Islamist groups are active, and northeastern Nigeria, which has grappled with Boko Haram and an offshoot loyal to the Islamic State. But now Burkina Faso is no longer safe from the chaos unfolding to its north and east. Human Rights Watch estimates that 700,000 people have fled their homes since January. "Slowly but surely, this will eat away at the whole region," said Shurkin, the Rand researcher. "And that will have ramifications for all of us eventually." Despite the growing danger, Burkina Faso's leaders seemed to hold their focus on implementing more democratic laws - and term limits were the centerpiece. They scheduled Sunday's vote in August. Africans tend to support term limits. About three-quarters of respondents in 34 countries surveyed by the polling firm Afrobarometer say they agree with such laws. (Afrobarometer gathers data in places where citizens feel safe to speak freely.) Research suggests that nations with leaders who can reign for decades are less stable: A third of the 18 countries that don't have term limits are tangled in armed conflict, according to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, compared to only two of the 21 countries that do. The toppling of the Compaore regime in 2014 - rioters burned the parliament building in Ouagadougou, and Compaore fled to neighboring Ivory Coast - sparked a burst of political engagement. Voter registration rose by 70 percent before the 2015 election, and president Roch Marc Christian Kabore pledged changes that would significantly weaken the power of the country's ruler. Under the proposed constitution, presidents could serve only two five-year terms. They could appoint just two judges. And they could be impeached. Now the vote for those updates could be delayed until the country's 2020 general election as a money-saving measure, French outlet RFI Afrique reported. "It could be they just didn't get themselves organized," said Joseph Siegle, director of research at the Africa Center for Strategic Studies. "It could be politics. Or it could be tied to the insecurity." The insecurity started in January 2016, when attackers linked to a northwestern al-Qaeda affiliate stormed a hotel in the capital, killing 30 and wounding 56. Since then, violence has escalated throughout the country. Analysts say fighters are spilling over the border from Mali, hoping to extend their reach in the region. Burkina Faso endured 136 attacks by Islamist militants last year, up from about a quarter of that figure in 2017. Kabore has declared a state of emergency in six of the nation's 13 provinces. "There's a rapid and worrying deterioration in security," said Corinne Dufka, West Africa director at Human Rights Watch. American military officials have voiced concern about terrorist activity in the region. "I would tell you at this time, we are not winning," Air Force Maj. Gen. J. Marcus Hicks, head of U.S. Special Operations Command Africa, told reporters on the sidelines of Flintlock, a military training exercise in Burkina Faso last month. The threat is intensifying months after the Pentagon announced plans to reduce U.S. forces in Africa by 10 percent in coming years - largely in West Africa - as the Trump administration shifts its priority to checking Chinese and Russian influence. The United States has about 7,200 troops and personnel on the continent. WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential candidates responded swiftly to the news Friday that special counsel Robert Mueller sent his long-awaited report on the Russia investigation to Attorney General William Barr: Make it public now. Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey, Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts were among the first to urge Barr to release the full findings of Russian interference in the 2016 election and possible obstruction of justice by President Donald Trump. "This report should be made public immediately," Booker said on Twitter. "Attorney General Barr - release the Mueller report to the American public. Now," Warren tweeted. "Special counsel Mueller's report should be made public without any delay. The American people have a right to know its findings," Gillibrand wrote on Twitter. Other congressional Democrats immediately added to the drumbeat of calls for the report to be made available for public consumption. In a joint statement, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., went even further, adding that Barr "must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of special counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public." "The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency," they wrote. Republicans, meanwhile, pointed to the development that Mueller had not recommended any further indictments in his final report, according to a senior Justice Department official, as backing up Trump's contention of no collusion. Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., the No. 2 House Republican, said, "the reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what we've known all along: there was never any collusion with Russia." Other congressional Republicans urged patience to allow Barr to digest Mueller's findings and advocated for transparency, but not necessarily a full release. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Barr "needs the time" to review it. "The attorney general has said he intends to provide as much information as possible," McConnell said. "As I have said previously, I sincerely hope he will do so as soon as he can, and with as much openness and transparency as possible." Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said he will work "to ensure as much transparency as possible, consistent with the law." Reactions from other would-be challengers to Trump reiterated calls to publicize the report. Sen. Kamala D. Harris, D-Calif., another presidential candidate, called for Barr to testify "under oath about the investigation and its findings, and provide all underlying materials to the appropriate congressional committees." "This is about securing American democracy and protecting voters' confidence in our elections and our system of government," Harris said. Additionally, Harris's campaign emailed supporters an online petition to "demand" Barr release the report and testify. Beto O'Rourke tweeted: "Release the Mueller report to the American people." And in a statement, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., quoted Trump, who said this week that the public should see the report. "As Donald Trump said, 'Let it come out.' I call on the Trump administration to make Special Counsel Mueller's full report public as soon as possible," Sanders said. "No one, including the president, is above the law." About 700 people sought treatment for nausea, headaches and other symptoms in the chemical disaster zone east of Houston, with 15 of the most-severe cases loaded onto ambulances and hauled to hospital emergency rooms. The wave of sickness sweeping the industrial suburb of Deer Park and neighboring communities near Intercontinental Terminals Co.'s chemical storage complex was evident at an ad-hoc clinic set up after the March 17 fire and subsequent benzene releases. The 15 hospitalized patients were suffering serious respiratory difficulties, said Umair Shah, executive director of Harris County Public Health. That tally only included people who sought help at the clinic in Deer Park, which is about 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of downtown Houston. No firm numbers were available from local authorities on how many more across the metropolitan area took themselves to hospitals or were rescued at home by paramedics. On Friday afternoon, the disaster site temporarily reignited, with multiple sections of the complex belching smoke and flames, and sending a new black plume over the fourth-largest U.S. city. - - - Mercy Reyna, 50, and her 18-year-old daughter Rebecca were suffering from headaches, eye discomfort and chest tightness, and had been waiting for 2 1/2 hours at the pop-up medical center when the new fire erupted. They left without being seen because they didn't want to get marooned there if the city ordered everyone to stay indoors. "I was filling out the paper work inside, and my eyes were running and running with tears," Mercy Reyna said. "It was just that desperation of wanting to get your eyes out and just rub them and rinse them and put them back. It's just that burning sensation." The latest blaze erupted just hours after a wall holding back almost a million gallons of toxic, flammable liquids collapsed, and just two days after the original conflagration was suppressed. Intercontinental, a unit of Japan's Mitsui & Co., said three tanks and a drainage ditch were alight before firefighters suppressed the flames after more than an hour. - - - One of the tanks involved in the new blaze contained xylene, a toxic byproduct of the oil-refining process, while the other two held gasoline components. The breach in the containment wall had been plugged as of Saturday morning but efforts to drain toxic fluids still held in one of the damaged tanks are on hold until the wall can be fortified, according to ITC. Although the company said Friday that there were about 60,000 barrels (2.52 million gallons) of hazardous chemicals still held in the damaged section of its complex, by Saturday morning it no longer knew how much remained. Meanwhile, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit accusing ITC of violating clean-air laws. "There's more tanks in there. Is it going to reignite? It's very uncertain," Reyna said. "The trust is not there. We feel like we're not being told the truth of what's going on." People at nearby industrial sites and a state war memorial had already been warned to take cover when the key containment wall failed, prompting the U.S. Coast Guard to shut part of the Houston Ship Channel, which abuts ITC's complex. The channel is one of the busiest commercial shipping facilities in North America, connecting Houston's manufacturing and oil-refining nexus to Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It remained closed on Saturday. Although the ship channel is a key maritime thoroughfare, it's not a source of drinking water for Houston or its suburbs. After the wall failed, officials issued take-shelter warnings to neighboring companies and visitors to the San Jacinto battlefield, site of the 1836 fight that won Texas independence from Mexico. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has been testing water samples from the so-called containment area surrounding the tanks that burned. Adam Adams, a coordinator for the agency, said earlier this week that results would be released Friday; several calls to the EPA's regional office in Dallas were not returned. The U.S. Chemical Safety Board announced late Thursday it will be investigating the blaze. The Texas National Guard dispatched troops to assist local authorities with air monitoring after cancer-causing benzene wafted across the area, prompting take-shelter alerts and road closures. SIDNEY, Iowa - His farm is still cut off by floodwaters, so Iowa soybean farmer Pat Sheldon had to view the damage from the air. On a helicopter ride over what seemed like an endless stretch of water, he came to a place he recognized as his own land - and saw that one of the grain silos had burst open, spilling yellow soybeans into the dingy, toxic water. "It was like a punch in the gut," Sheldon said. "You work hard planting, taking care of these beans and harvesting them. Then, to have that happen makes you almost physically ill," he said. "But I haven't had time to get mad - too many responsibilities and people that need still need help." Although the water has yet to recede enough for a true examination, Sheldon says more than $350,000 of his corn and soybeans is in jeopardy, and he worries he may lose the farm that's been in his family for generations. Before the terrible "bomb cyclone" sent warm rain down on frozen ground, resulting in catastrophic flooding throughout the Midwest and displacing thousands, American farmers were already struggling after several seasons of low commodity prices and the continuing trade war with China. In towns along the overflowing Mississippi and Missouri rivers, farmers are seeing their crops - and their futures - swept away by floodwaters. In Nebraska, Gov. Pete Ricketts, R, has called the flooding "the most widespread destruction we have ever seen in our state's history." Iowa has more than 100,000 acres of farmland still underwater. Officials from both states say the damage estimates are more than $1 billion and counting. "It's devastating for a lot of these folks, there's no doubt about it," said Jeff Jorgenson, a farmer and board member of the Iowa Soybean Association. "Essentially, it's two years of negative; these farmers lost what was stored in the bins and won't be able to plant next year's crop. So it's going to be really tough for a lot of people." But, he added, "if we get the opportunity, we'll go to work." Some farmers had more soybeans in storage this year than normal, according to Frayne Olson, a crop economist and marketing specialist with North Dakota State University. The government estimates there are more than 3.7 billion bushels of soybeans still in storage - a record - partly because Chinese purchases of the grain have plummeted in recent months during the ongoing tariff war. Iowa farmers have about 528 bushels in storage, up 8 percent from the previous year, while Nebraska had 13 percent more grain stored, according to the U.S. Agriculture Department's estimate. "A lot of farmers have not been selling, hoping for better prices and some kind of trade agreement," Olson said. As floodwaters are receding across some parts of the Midwest, new threats loom. The Missouri River is continuing its destructive course south into Missouri where Gov. Mike Parson, R, declared a state of emergency, as governors have already done in Iowa, Wisconsin and hard-hit Nebraska. The river is expected to crest this weekend in Atchison, Kanas, and state officials urged residents of at-risk towns to evacuate. Threats are emerging from the north over the next week, where warm temperatures are causing snow to melt rapidly in the Dakotas and Minnesota, releasing vast quantities of water into streams and rivers, meaning some areas will have little chance to dry out before a new deluge arrives. In Sioux Falls, S.D., the Big Sioux River is expected to have two crests - one late Monday and another on Friday. The Mississippi will likely peak later in the week in St. Paul, Minn. Ten miles to the south, the city of Cottage Grove declared an emergency in anticipation of flooding from the river, which is expected to peak there on March 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warned people to prepare for a prolonged disaster. "The stage is set for record flooding now through May," said Mary C. Erickson, deputy director of NOAA's National Weather Service. Edward Clark, director of NOAA's National Water Center called it "potentially an unprecedented flood season." There are some 40,000 soybean farmers in Iowa. In the past several years, 1 in 3 rows of soybeans have been sent to China, meaning farmers were heavily impacted after China virtually stopped buying American soybeans last year, according to the Iowa Soybean Association. But some of the farmers who gathered Thursday at the Silver Spur Bar and Grill in Iowa's Fremont County - a population of about 7,400 - didn't want to talk about tariffs, saying they felt their plight was being used to fuel political debate on cable news shows and by Washington. "We like what the president's doing," Sheldon said. "As the farmer sees it, we've had times a lot worse for grain prices as we've got right now. We know China's been screwing us for years, not only on farm products but on technology. We know we can duck our heads and pull our boots on and get through this, and, in the long run, the whole country is going to be better off." The farmers said they were more concerned with the way the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was handling the management of the river. They said they received little warning from the Corps before levees breached and their land was flooded, and many did not have time to move their grain to safety. "Our story is that we're devastated. We're faced with losing a whole year's income, maybe two," said Brian Johnson, 57. "We've got a problem with the way the river is being managed. How are we going to recover? How can we keep our land and continue to farm?" The Army Corps of Engineers has long been criticized for a plan to control the Missouri River that farmers say prioritizes wildlife protection over flood control. A federal claims court judge ruled last year that Corps policies contributed to some flooding. After touring flood damage in Missouri last week, Parson said it was time to "reevaluate" the Corps' management of the Missouri River. A spokesman for the Corps' office in Omaha did not return calls for comment. "We've had no real communication from the Corps of Engineers since this started," said Mike Crecelius, the emergency management coordinator for Fremont County. He estimates that there have been 14 breaches in their levees alone, causing $147 million in damage - more than a $100 million from farm crops and equipment. "It's been one big nightmare," he said. - - - Sellers reported from Washington. A couple of weeks ago, groups representing students, faculty and staff at the University of Mississippi voted, one by one, in favor of moving the Confederate monument that stands at the campus entrance. Then, they waited. And on Thursday, they got a powerful signal: The school's interim chancellor announced that the administration agrees. University leaders have begun the process of getting legal approval to move the monument away from its prominent spot to a Confederate cemetery elsewhere on campus. "This is an important decision for our university," Larry Sparks, the interim chancellor, wrote in an email to campus. "The monument, its meaning, and its location have been a point of discussion and debate for many years." Some see the statue of a soldier as an integral part of the university's rich history and Southern culture. Others contend it is nothing more than a racist symbol that has no place at the state flagship school. When he saw Sparks's message, Jarvis Benson, president of the Black Student Union at Ole Miss, thought of student activism against the monument starting years before he ever came to campus, years before he ever wished to come. In recent months, a carefully coordinated campaign challenged the presence of the statue on campus. In the same week this month, groups representing much of the university - the Faculty Senate, Staff Council, Graduate Student Council and Associated Student Body - passed resolutions calling on the university to move the statue. Students described shaking, cheering and crying after the undergraduate resolution passed, unanimously, after months of secretive efforts. Then, there was collective anxiety as they waited for the administration to respond, said Katie Dames, a sophomore and senator in the student government. "We didn't really know how the university was going to respond, if they were going to respond or say anything," said Elam Miller, president of the Associated Student Body. But then, "to open your email and see" the message from Sparks - "I was really happy when I saw it, and I think so were a lot of other students," Miller said. "It has been almost surreal," he said. "It sends a message to the rest of the country that our campus is for all students." There was something particularly inspiring about the campus uniting at a time when the country is so polarized, Miller said. They crafted a compromise that suggested moving the statue to a more appropriate site, rather than demanding it be moved off campus - or tearing it down, as protesters did to a similar monument at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at the beginning of this academic year. The Mississippi monument has long been a flash point at the Deep South school, which shut down during the Civil War when most students left to fight for the Confederacy. When the first black student tried to enroll at Ole Miss in 1962, after the Supreme Court upheld his right to do so, state leaders came out in opposition and a riot broke out around the Confederate statue. Two people were killed. Federal law enforcement and troops were sent to campus to protect James Meredith, the black student, and to enforce integration. Over the years, Ole Miss has moved to distance itself from some of its Confederate symbolism, adding a statue of Meredith prominently on campus and removing the state flags that include the Confederate emblem. But some traditions linger. In February, pro-Confederate demonstrators gathered at the statue, rallying to show their support for the monument. When Benson, a senior from Mississippi, decided to enroll at the school, his family and friends questioned why he would want to go to a university that wasn't built for people like him. It was hard to contest those statements, he said, when the first thing you see on campus is a statue commemorating the Confederacy. "It's a perpetuation of those stigmas, and a symbol of who really holds power on campus and who historically held the power," he said. Benson, one of the co-authors of the student government resolution, said the message from the interim chancellor doesn't solve the problem, but "it's a step toward greater respect." It would be great if the statue could just be gone overnight, said Dames, the student government senator. "A lot of people don't like the bureaucracy and the red tape," Dames said. But she said she has faith that if consensus is nurtured on campus, the monument's move can be permanent. The interim chancellor said earlier this month that, by law, certain requirements must be met, and approvals sought from state agencies, because the statue has landmark status. On Thursday, Sparks told the campus that the university submitted word of its intent to the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, a necessary step in the process to get approval for the relocation. That process will take time, he said. Benson wonders if, by the time he graduates this spring, the statue will have been relocated to the cemetery. "I can hope," he said. "I can dream." To look at the Twitter feed of Katalin Novak, the Hungarian minister of family affairs, you'd be hard-pressed to find evidence of the global outrage confronting her government. Members of the European Parliament have accused it of undermining human rights and democratic values, and the main bloc voted Wednesday in an unprecedented action to suspend the membership of Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party from its coalition. But Novak's social media feed is full of accolades from Americans - most prominently, from social conservatives in President Donald Trump's administration. They include White House special assistant Katy Talento, White House strategic communications director Mercedes Schlapp and several members of Congress, who on March 14 attended an invitation-only conference - "Make Families Great Again" - hosted by the Embassy of Hungary at the Library of Congress in Washington. U.S. Health and Human Services senior adviser Valerie Huber, known for her support of abstinence-only education, was a keynote speaker at the event to promote Orban's seven-point "Family Protection Action Plan," designed to promote marriage and families and spawn a baby boom. Also present were prominent antiabortion leaders, including Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council and representatives from the Heritage Foundation's DeVos Center for Religion and Civil Society. Of Perkins and Talento, Novak tweeted: "They praised HU's commitment for strengthening #families and encouraged me to further support them." She also shared praise from Rep. Christopher Smith, R-N.J., whom she quoted as saying, "#Hungary is a beacon of hope. Thank you to PM #Orban that he is a friend of families." The display of support from U.S. officials marks a 180-degree pivot from the Obama years, when Hungary was all but ostracized to signal U.S. opposition to Orban's restrictions on free speech, his anti-immigration policies and his efforts to weaken the nation's constitutional protections. "The Trump administration has gone in a completely different direction and embraced them warmly," said Robert Berschinski, who helped lead U.S. policy toward Hungary in 2016 as deputy assistant secretary of state for democracy and human rights. The increasingly close relations between the United States and Hungary have drawn concern from civil society and advocacy groups. Hungary's birth policies made headlines recently after the government announced its seven-point plan to entice Hungarian women to have more children, with offers that include waiving income taxes for life for those who have four or more babies and subsidies to buy larger cars for their larger families. Health and Human Services Department spokeswoman Caitlin Oakley said Huber attended the event "to promote the administration's priorities," but declined to comment beyond confirming her attendance. Hungary has one of the lowest fertility rates in the world at 1.45 total births per woman and is seeking to boost its dwindling population through births rather than through immigration. In 2015, Hungary drew the ire of its European neighbors for refusing to allow asylum seekers from Africa and the Middle East into the country during Europe's refugee crisis. In February, the government launched a poster campaign accusing American philanthropist George Soros and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker of a plan to flood the country with migrants - an idea the European Commission called a "shocking" and a "ludicrous conspiracy theory." Berschinski, who works at Human Rights First, a nonpartisan advocacy group based in New York and Washington, said Hungary's birth plan is at odds with accepted best practices in other countries. "The critique is - in effect and by design - it does not encourage women to rejoin the labor force, but keeps them home and pregnant in more of a traditionalist sense through financial incentives," he said. Mary Alice Carter, executive director of Equity Forward, a watchdog project that conducts research and provides public education about reproductive health, accused Hungary's family policies of being about "ensuring that their population is not an immigrant population but a white Christian population." "To have U.S. representatives at that kind of event is incredibly disturbing," she said. March 22, 1959: Gale proportion winds pummeled this region Friday while snow flurries intermittently laid the dust. --The twenty-fourth annual Plainview Fat Stock Show opens Wednesday for a three days' stand. --Twenty-one Girl Scouts from four Plainview troops participate each Saturday in a nurse's training course to earn requirements for a nurse's badge. March 22, 1979: The second day of judging at the 44th annual Plainview Stock Show on Wednesday belonged to Abernathy and Hale Center youth. --Communities in the immediate area followed a state-wide trend with a dip in rebates of the local one percent sales tax for the first three months of 1979 compared to the first quarter of 1978. --Bright skies today apparently mark the end of the latest round of severe spring weather that saw heavy rain, hail and threats of tornadoes. An Uber driver shot while trying to earn extra money for his daughters birthday was in a coma Friday after several surgeries as police arrested a suspect in connection with his attack. Kim Troy Williams, 51, was shot twice in the abdomen at about 8:20 a.m. Thursday after he had picked up two passengers at an unknown location and drove them to the 7400 block of New Laredo Highway, San Antonio police said. The suspects took everything Williams had, including his wallet, cell phone and laptop, as they fled in Williams 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox Late Friday, Jesus Luna, 18, was taken into custody in connection with the shooting, SAPD spokeswoman Jennifer Rodriguez said. Luna faces a charge of aggravated robbery. SWAT and robbery detectives arrested Luna without incident Friday on the Southwest Side. Williams SUV was recovered not far from the site of Lunas arrest. We are working to identify a second suspect in the incident, said Rodriguez, who asked that anyone with information on the suspect contact police. Luna denied taking part in the incident as he was led away in handcuffs Friday night to a vehicle outside the police station at 555 Academic Court. Asked if he had any regrets about ending up in handcuffs, Luna said Yes ... everything, but declined to elaborate. Police did not reveal Lunas role in Williams shooting. After he was shot, Williams made his way to a nearby muffler shop for help. Paramedics picked him up there and transported him to San Antonio Military Medical Center . Amy Keslar Williams said that after her brother-in-law was shot, he remained conscious long enough to get to the hospital. Williams gave police a description of one of the suspects who attacked him and an emergency contact before going into a coma, his sister-in-law said. RELATED: Uber driver in 'dire' condition after he was shot by 2 passengers As of Friday, Williams remained in a medically induced coma after enduring four surgeries. Doctors removed parts of his internal organs that were damaged by the bullets, including his gall bladder, liver, a piece of his stomach and a portion of his lung, his sister-in-law said. She said his abdomen is open and could stay that way through Sunday until doctors can finish reconstructive surgery. Its still a long road to recovery. Hes still going to have to have a few more surgeries, Amy Williams said. Theyre not exactly sure how many because of ... all the things they have to do and each one seems to have a bit of a hold up. Williams, who works at a T.J. Maxx distribution warehouse, joined Uber to earn extra money for his daughters ninth birthday party, his family said. Hes such a sweet guy, Amy Williams said. He never had a bad word to say about anyone. He likes to smile and laugh and loves hanging out with his daughter. She said Kim Williams, at 6 feet, 3 inches tall with a heavy-set build, was never afraid to pick up people at certain parts of town. The two people he picked up Thursday, who used a gift card to pay for the Uber, were strangers to him and his family, she said. As Kim Williams continues his recovery, his family including his wife and 8-year-old daughter has made sure to have at least one person by his side at all times. Its a tough situation, were dealing as best as we can, his sister-in-law said. Everybodys been around 24 hours. Were a close-knit family, real tight-knit. A Gofundme set up by family to help cover his medical expenses raised more than $4,000 as of Friday night. A decision by the City Council to bar Chik-fil-A from opening a restaurant at San Antonio International Airport is drawing criticism from Sen. Ted Cruz. "Ridiculous," Cruz tweeted Friday, with a link to a story about the vote. "The details of this story are even worse," he followed up Saturday, tweeting a link to another story. "San Antonio City Council voted to ban @ChickfilA from the airport bc the company gave to...the Fellowship of Christian Athletes & the Salvation Army?!? "That's ridiculous. And not Texas," he wrote, along with the hashtag #LeftistIntolerance. After council members Roberto Trevino and Manny Pelaez voiced concerns about the eatery's inclusion at the airport because of its anti-LGBT reputation, the council voted to reject the restaurant under a deal approved Thursday. FOR SUBSCRIBERS: Council votes to block Chick-fil-A from airport over LGBT issues The plan entails Paradies Lagardere bringing eight vendors to Terminal A at the airport, including Smoke Shack, Local Coffee and Sip Brew Bar and Market, and finding a replacement for Chik-fil-A. "The heart of the LGBTQ community is in District 1, and that community has come together to voice its disapproval of this proposal because it includes a company with a legacy of anti-LGBTQ behavior," Trevino said. In a statement Saturday, Chik-fil-A said that the press release put out by the council member "was the first we heard of his motion and its approval" by the council. "We wish we had the opportunity to clarify misperceptions about our company prior to the vote. We agree with the councilmember that everyone should feel welcome at Chick-fil-A," the company said. "In fact, we have welcomed everyone in San Antonio into our 32 local stores for more than 40 years." "We would welcome the opportunity to have a thoughtful dialogue with the city council and we invite all of them into our local stores to interact with the more than 2,000 team members who are serving the people of San Antonio," the statement continued. "We hope they will experience for themselves that Chick-fil-A embraces all people, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity." Staff writer Dylan McGuinness contributed to this report. A person who is not authorized under federal statute to be present in the United States may not be considered a resident of this state for the purposes of this title. And with these words, some in the Texas Legislature want to erase what had been a rare achievement when it comes to this states treatment of undocumented immigrants. The clause is contained in companion bills that would eliminate in-state tuition for undocumented students. This essentially means they wont attend college. Texas was, in 2001, the first state in the nation to allow undocumented immigrant students to pay in-state tuition to public universities. They need only have lived in Texas for the three years before they graduated from high school. And the reasoning was as compelling then as it is now. Having paid for all or part of the K-12 educations of such students, it makes little sense to not invest further by ensuring these students become skilled, productive, taxpaying workers, not just another part of the underground economy. Today, we call many of these students Dreamers brought here as children by undocumented immigrant parents. They had no say in coming here. And, today, the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival program gave many such young people permission to stay. A reading of the plain language of the bills would seem to say that the 120,000 or so DACA recipients in Texas out of 800,000 nationally would have been authorized to be here and eligible for in-state tuition. But a previous clause says, For purposes of this section, the domicile of a dependents parent is presumed to be the domicile of the dependent. So, is that domicile the parents country of origin or their Texas address? We would argue the Texas address but suspect the intent is otherwise. And one of the bills sponsors makes the argument that DACA is deferred action, which, in his mind, doesnt make Dreamers residents. But another part of this arguments falls on its face. In-state tuition is reserved for taxpaying Texas families. The parents of Dreamers pay the same taxes. The other problem more broadly, however, is that the Trump administration, thwarted for the moment by the courts, has been trying to scrap DACA. And our fear is also for the undocumented students in our midst who have completed high school in Texas, who are not yet DACA recipients and who want to continue their educations. It simply makes no sense economically and for humanitarian considerations to stop them in their tracks. The Texas Compact on Immigration is a collaboration of businesses and business associations that advocate comprehensive immigration reform, partly because of what that will mean for future labor availability. The compact has come out against these two bills because they are antithetical to the purpose of preventing labor shortages. It has gathered data that show immigrants contribute roughly $32.1 billion in taxes and $101.2 billion in spending power in Texas annually. And it estimates that the state will lose $400 million annually in economic activity if the state changes its residency requirements on tuition for immigrants. The demographic trends are clear. The economic pinch from labor shortages we are now feeling foreshadow more of the same ahead but worse. Native birth rates will continue to decline further below population-replacement rates. And, by the way, a decline in birthrate is also happening in Mexico. So, where will these future workers come from? They can be immigrants generally if we can move beyond this visceral, nativist casting of them as scourges. In reality, they are our economic salvation if we recruit both high-skill and low-skill labor. Dreamers and other undocumented immigrant children who attend Texas colleges can be the first wave of these skilled workers if we embrace rather than reject them. Among the compact participants are chambers of commerce, which report that their members across economic sectors are already suffering from labor shortages. This is happening in health care and tech, as well as in the hospitality industry, agriculture and construction. And this is plain to see. The Now Hiring signs in San Antonio are ubiquitous. The deep, nasty secret that those who rail against immigrants keep these days? We need immigrants. The Legislature must turn away from the divisiveness of such bills as HB 413 and SB 576 and start thinking strategically about the states economic future. Comprehensive immigration reform including a pathway to citizenship makes it possible for them to be here legally. Blocking these two bills in the Legislature is a necessary first step in getting us to that broader reform. Special counsel Robert Mueller looks to be a "weekend warrior." On Friday, he delivered the findings of his nearly two-year investigation into President Donald Trump and Russia to Attorney General William Barr. Details of Mueller's findings have not been released. The news ignited the denizens of social media, who responded with thoughtful commentary, less thoughtful commentary, and fresh memes. The internet, unlike a special counsel investigation, moves fast. FULL STORY: Mueller delivers report to AG Some of the latter included Mueller as Obama-on-a-boat, Mueller as Beyonce in "Lemonade" (changed to "Kremlinade") and Mueller as romance novel protagonist. To each their own. It wasn't all fun and games. This being America, both sides of the political spectrum took to Twitter to speculate about the contents of the report and, most importantly, to decry one another's idiocy. Lots of "impeachment pending!" posts from the left, and plenty of "nothingburgers!" from the right. ALSO READ: Key questions answered about the report Many disparaged Mueller's decision to submit the bombshell on a Friday night, disrupting Happy Hours everywhere as well as other "festivities." "Mueller is such a drama queen, trying to steal the glory of national puppy day for himself," tweeted @morninggloria. It's a lot to digest, so SFGATE sorted through some of the thousands of tweets. The highlights are in the above gallery. 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 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 An eagle eyed garda reserve and bus driver has come in for praise after spotting a bail book from Longford Garda Station which had been stolen by a Ballymahon woman just hours earlier. Ann Murphy (61) of 34 Thomond Court, Ballymahon, Longford was later charged with the theft of the stations record book, valued at 5 on August 5 2018. At the outset of the case, defence solicitor Frank Gearty indicated his client would be pleading guilty. The court was told Ms Murphy had been present at Longford Garda Station earlier that day when it was noticed some time later that the bail book had gone missing. Described in court as an A4 size document which is used for individuals to sign on usually as a result of directions made the judiciary, it was noticed later that evening onboard a bus in Dublin. Sgt Paddy McGirl said the document was spotted by a Bus Eireann driver in Dublin, who is also a registered garda reserve. He approached her and she (Ms Murphy) handed it over, he said, adding Ms Murphy was in a state at the time. It was further revealed Ms Murphy had 23 previous convictions on her record, five of which related to theft related offences. Mr Gearty, though, was quick to underline the last of those dated back the best part of a decade. She comes from a very good family and has been doing well in Ballymahon, he said, revealing that she was also a mother to two sons. Shes had a very depressing life and had to deal with serious alcohol issues. Mr Gearty qualified those remarks, however, by maintaining such episodes were becoming an increasing rarity in more recent times. In finalising his judgement, Judge Hughes fined Ms Murphy 250 and gave her three months to pay. The event was attended by close to 200 Muslims drawn from seventeen different countries and took place within 48 hours of the horrific gun attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand. At the Temperance Hall event, local leaders of the Islam community gave a summary of the St Patrick story and identified with how he, too, had also been a visitor to these shores, albeit a reluctant one at the outset. Robert Troy TD said the enthusiasm of the Islamic community and their determination to make good lives for themselves and families here in Longford was very evident. Cllr Joe Flaherty said the people of Longford were at one with the Islamic community in the wake of the Christchurch attacks and he assured them that there was no place in modern Ireland for prejudice or intolerance. Cllr Flaherty added: We are keen to emphasise the diversity dividend that's there for Longford to reap and capitalise on the talents and abilities of our vibrant new Irish communities. Time and time again I am amazed by the opportunities and potential and this evening is no different. The young people we see here will be amongst the decision makers and policy makers of tomorrow and our country will be the better for it. Also in attendance were Cllr Mick Cahill and local election hopeful, Martin Monaghan. Cllr Cahill said it was a great honour to be invited. Local businessman, Mujahid Nanzoor, was one of the event organisers and he said the local Islamic community were keen to share in the St Patrick's Day festivities and Saturday's get together was the start of a busy week of celebrations for many in the community, as they will also celebrate Pakistan Day on Saturday, March 23. The event was also addressed by community activist, Dr Parvez Butt, who said this was the third successful event organised by Longford Islamic Fellowship and it is going to be a regular feature on the Longford social calendar. Background The Australian government subsidises access to approved drugs via the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Under the scheme, the majority of the approved drug's cost is borne by the government in order to improve patient access. A generic drug manufacturer may apply for listing on the PBS for their copy of the drug at any time because there is no patent linkage in Australia. The application for listing on the PBS, of itself, by the generic does not constitute patent infringement. Upon listing of a generic drug on the PBS, there is a 25% immediate and mandatory price reduction for the originator drug. Significantly, this price drop is irreversible even if the generic drug is later removed from the market due to, for example, patent litigation. This issue forms the core of many pharmaceutical patent litigation cases in Australia, which highlights the different forms of patents that can be used to delay or prevent generic entry. Preliminary injunctions The irreversible price reduction of originator drugs resulting from listing of a generic may support an originator's claim that it would suffer irreparable harm, thereby strengthening their case for a preliminary injunction (PI) to prevent a generic from entering the market. PIs are a useful way for originators to prevent generics from entering the market, as the law in Australia tends to favour patentees. Typically, an Australian court will only briefly consider the validity of the claims in question before granting a PI and the generic must establish a very strong case for invalidity for a court to not grant an injunction. Even if there is a good argument for invalidity courts tend to grant the PI; however, very recently the federal court decided against granting an injunction in a case involving a biosimilar, in part due to the strength of the invalidity claim. Value of MoT and Swiss-style claims In Australia, patent claims directed to methods of treatment (MoT) a method of treatment comprising administering molecule X to treat disease Y as well as Swiss-style claimsuse of molecule X in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of disease Yare both allowable. Inclusion of both forms of claims covering approved indications in patents can be advantageous in the context of PIs. For example, Pfizer was awarded injunctive relief against Apotex for threatened infringement of its patent covering methods of treatment and Swiss-style claims relating to pregabalin. The court held that an offer made during the term of the patent to supply an infringing product after the term of the patent has expired will infringe a Swiss-style claim, but not a method of treatment claim. This decision highlights the importance of including both claim types in Australian pharmaceutical patents. Method of manufacture patents In addition to patents covering uses of drugs, claims directed to the methods of manufacture of approved drugs can be a valuable tool for companies to delay generic market entry. Recently, Janssen was granted a PI against Alphapharm (Mylan) for threatened infringement of Janssen's patent covering methods of manufacturing a precursor to its HIV drug darunavir. In that case, Alphapharm argued that the claims were not infringed and invalid. However, the court held that there was a risk of infringement and that the invalidity arguments were triable. The court granted the PI, which blocked the PBS listing of Alphapharm's generic version of darunavir, thereby preventing the price reduction of Janssen's products. Australian courts are also relatively generous to patentees in obtaining preliminary discovery of manufacturing methods. For example, Pfizer was recently granted preliminary discovery of Samsung Bioepis' manufacturing process for producing etanercept. In that case, Pfizer successfully argued that due to the biosimilarity of Samsung's etanercept product with Pfizer's, there was a reasonable chance that it was produced using a similar method to Pfizer with Pfizer's method protected by several patents and preliminary discovery was granted. Beware of the government The government is under pressure to reduce its PBS expenditure from its current level of A$12 billion. One step taken by the government is to sue pharmaceutical companies, including Sanofi, Wyeth and AstraZeneca, whose patents were relied on for preliminary injunction but then later held invalid. In these cases, the government sought to recover its costs in continuing to subsidise the drug at the higher price, which would have been reduced by 25% if the generic copy had been allowed to list on the PBS. The first decision on this issue is expected this year and the defendant (Sanofi) is considering the risk sufficiently serious to mention in its overview of financial risk factors in its global investor report. Therefore, although Australian law is generally favourable to originators, if the patent claims relied on for a PI are held to be invalid, then they risk being sued by the Australian government. Jarrod Voss FB Rice Level 23, 44 Market St Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Tel: +61 2 8231 1000 Fax: +61 2 8231 1099 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 Recently, the Shanghai Intellectual Property Court (SIPC) rendered a so-called partial or interlocutory judgment during a patent infringement lawsuit filed by the French automotive parts manufacturer Valeo against three Chinese defendants including Xiamen Lucas Automotive Parts, Xiamen Fuke Automotive Parts and an individual, Mr Chen. In this case, Valeo alleged that the wipers for cars being manufactured and sold by the defendants infringed its Chinese invention patent named "Connectors for wiper of motor vehicles and corresponding connecting devices" and, on that basis, the company requested RMB 6 million ($894,000) in damages. After careful investigation with support of technical experts, the SIPC found that the defendants' products fell into the scope of claims 1-3 and 6-10 of Valeo's patent in question and that they should immediately stop the infringement first, while the damages can be determined later. It is said that this is the first time the SIPC has made such a partial judgment for an IP case. The legal basis is Article 153 of the PRC Civil Procedure Law: "If some of the facts in a case being tried by the people's court are already evident, the court may pass judgment on that part of the case first." Usually patent lawsuits can take a long time given their technical complexity including the difficulty of calculating damages. In a case like this one where the SIPC believed the infringement could adequately be established based on all the ascertained facts, the court considered it an innovative and efficient way to apply Article 153 to issue a partial judgment first so as to cease the infringement in a timely manner. Then if the parties quickly settle on damages or enter into a licensing arrangement, further judicial proceedings will be saved with effective deterrents already served. Partial judgments are still not commonly seen, probably mainly because the underlying facts of most cases can hardly be ascertained until a full judgment is made. Our research revealed another patent case, Sougou v Baidu, in 2018 where the Beijing IP Court issued a similar partial judgment. In addition, there was a copyright dispute case before the Jiangsu Provincial Higher Court where determining the ownership of the software copyright was a pre-condition for an infringement conclusion. In light of the huge burden to do infringement analysis for over 30 software programs, the court used its discretion to render an interlocutory judgment on the software copyright ownership first in order to give the parties an opportunity to negotiate a settlement. Some people might find a partial judgment somewhat similar to a preliminary injunction in terms of stopping the infringement before a final full judgment is made. However, what is different is that a partial judgment issued by the first instance court can still be appealed and hence is not immediately effective. In comparison, a preliminary injunction once granted cannot be appealed and must be executed right away despite the final judgment. Appeal filed For the above Valeo case, the defendants have filed an appeal which is currently being handled by the newly established IP appellate tribunal of the PRC Supreme Court. The final result remains to be seen. If the first instance infringement conclusion is maintained, it becomes final and then the SIPC can continue to issue a damages award, unless the parties settle in advance. If the infringement conclusion is revoked, the case is dismissed and apparently there is no need to determine the damages at all, so judicial resources can be saved as well. Overall, a partial judgment can be a good thing to try for applicable cases where IP ownership or infringement may be easily concluded based on the available facts and evidence, particularly if the plaintiff seeks quick deterrents as well as the leverage to negotiate a satisfactory settlement. It can be a viable approach to save time, efforts and costs for both the parties and the courts. The SIPC has set a good example for similar cases in the future. Jerry Xia Wen Zou 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 26/F, Tower D, Central International Trade Center6A Jianguomenwai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100022, PR ChinaTel: +86 10 8567 5988Fax: +86 10 8567 5999 wuli@anjielaw.com www.anjielaw.com Earlier this year, the Singapore Court of Appeal reversed a High Court decision that held Singapore legislation, including the Singapore Patents Act, did not afford the High Court with original jurisdiction in patent revocation matters. The case of Sunseap Group and Others v Sun Electric Pte Ltd [2019] SGCA 4 arose on appeal from a Singapore High Court ruling that held that the High Court did not have original jurisdiction to hear applications for patent revocation or to order that a patent be revoked. The High Court's reasoning was that all applications for patent revocation must be heard in the first instance by the registrar of patents and the High Court can only hear appeals from the registrar's decision. The Court of Appeal reversed the High Court's decision and held that the High Court has the power to hear applications for patent revocation and to revoke patents. However, the Court of Appeal's decision clarified that the High Court's power to revoke patents is confined to instances where the revocation proceeding is brought by way of counterclaim or defence in infringement proceedings. In looking to the Singapore Patents Act for legislative basis of the High Court's revocation powers, the Court of Appeal cited Section 80(1) of the Patents Act for the premise that if a defendant is able to establish invalidity of all claims of an asserted patent based on any grounds in Section 80(1) of the Patents Act, the defendant has established that the asserted patent should be revoked. The Court of Appeal further stated that Section 91(1) of the Patents Act gives the High Court the power to revoke patents when the grounds for revocation have been established by the defendant. In regards to original jurisdiction, the Court of Appeal held that the High Court does not have original jurisdiction for patent revocation actions brought independently of infringement proceedings because such jurisdiction has been excluded by the Singapore Patents Act (Sections 82(1) and 82(2) of the Patents Act). The Court of Appeal also stated that the High Court may only revoke a patent when the validity of the entire patent is challenged as a defence or counterclaim in an infringement proceeding. If the validity of the entire patent is not in issue (i.e. only certain patent claims are asserted in the infringement action), the High Court does not have the power to revoke the patent. In this case, the defendant's only recourse is to seek revocation of the patent before the registrar of patents. On the point of the entire patent being at issue, the Court of Appeal reviewed a situation where all the independent claims of a patent were asserted and found to be invalid. In this case, the Court of Appeal concluded that the dependent claims must also be invalid if all the independent claims are invalid. The entire patent, the Court of Appeal continued, could then be regarded as invalid and it would be proper for the High Court to revoke the same. While presented as a scenario where the High Court had the power to revoke a patent, this scenario differs from earlier Singapore and English precedence where dependent claims and independent claims stand and fall together only when a patentee concedes such. So, while the High Court decision of original patent revocation jurisdiction being the province of the registrar of patents was a surprise for many Singapore practitioners, the Court of Appeal has clarified that the High Court also has original patent revocation jurisdiction when the issue of the entire patent's validity is raised as a defence or counterclaim in an infringement action brought before the Hight Court. Daniel Collopy 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 152 Beach Road#37-05/06 Gateway EastSingapore 189721Tel: +65 6333 7200Fax: +65 6333 7222 mail.asia@spruson.com www.spruson.com Cheers and the undeniable smell of marijuana flower filled the inside of the historic bank building in Brookline where NETA welcomed the first adult recreational users to purchase legal pot in the Greater Boston area Saturday morning. Neil Wishinsky, the chairman of the Brookline Board of Selectmen, made the first purchase picking lumens, a chewy edible product, and nuggets. It was a little daunting, he said, while holding up his purchase in a white paper bag before a pack of reporters. Of his new products he said: I guess at some point Ill find out what these are. Less intimidated was James Jenner, 38 of Salem. He arrived at the Brookline facility at 5 a.m. and got in line at about 6 a.m. He was the first person let into the store, after Wishinskys ceremonial purchase. This is a big deal, said Jenner, who grew up in Brighton. Its got that hometown kind of feel. Jenner, who said he has diabetes and anxiety, uses marijuana medicinally, he said, but was hesitant to sign up for a medical card. He did not want to be part of a database, he said. On Saturday he bought a vape pen. The sky's the limit, he declared, while wrapped in a poncho in the wind outside the shop. The second person in line was 72-year-old Tom Sullivan. Sullivan is a Lyft driver and hopes smoking marijuana will help calm him nerves after his shifts. By the time I get home from my shift Im a nervous wreck, Sullivan, of West Roxbury, said. So Im hoping this will be a little reward after a shift, to have a little marijuana. Sullivan said hes been waiting patiently all these years for marijuana to become legal for recreational use. Sullivan said hes smoked pot twice before in 2007 but was unimpressed. When I smoked the first time I was expecting more from it then I got, he said. He bought a Rubi vape pen, which he thinks will be more potent. Sullivan said hes been waiting patiently all these years for marijuana to become legal for recreational use. In 2016, Massachusetts residents voted to legalize recreational marijuana. The first shops - in Northampton and Leicester - didnt open until the end of 2018 after a rigorous vetting process by the states Cannabis Control Commission. NETA in Brookline is the 13th legal marijuana store to open in Massachusetts. It is the first in the Greater Boston area, and the only shop to be accessible by the MBTA. The next closest store to Boston, Alternative Therapies Group in Salem, has suspended recreational sales due to a problem uploading their inventory into the state tracking system. AMHERST More than 100 Jones Library supporters attended the institutions birthday party Thursday night to celebrate a century of the communitys beloved learning and cultural center. One loyal patron recounted his years of using the Jones, and has written a history of it, which will soon be available for sale. Bruce Watsons book is titled Hearth and Soul. Referring to the Jones, he told attendees, the hearth, for mother Amherst, welcomes her children to the hearth. I came here every day of the week, he said. Watson during his remarks quoted from the esteemed Argentinian writer Jorge Luis Borges. I am perhaps misled by old age and fear, but I suspect that the human species the only species teeters at the verge of extinction, yet that the Library enlightened, solitary, infinite, perfectly unmoving, armed with precious volumes, pointless, incorruptible, and secret will endure, Borges wrote in 1941 in a short piece titled The Library of Babel. State Rep. Mindy Domb, D-Amherst, read a declaration from the House of Representatives. The entire membership expresses its best wishes, she said. Domb also said that at the Jones Library, patrons can view a poem written by Emily Dickinson written in her handwriting. Amherst Town Council Vice President Mandi Jo Hanneke spoke on behalf of her council colleagues, saying: The Jones really is our living room ... its our living room year round. The library came to be on March 21, 1919, and is named after Samuel Minot Jones. Then-Gov. Calvin Coolidge, who went onto to become the nations president in the 1920s, signed into law an Act to Incorporate Jones Library on that date. Groundbreaking was in 1927. The current facility has a book collection exceeding 200,000 volumes. I love every inch of this place. ... Its just the jewel of the town. ... Im glad its been here for 100 years, former state Rep. Ellen Story said. Since 1993 the town of Amherst and its sister city, Kanegasaki in Japan, have shared a special relationship. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of a student exchange agreement between public schools in Amherst and Kanegasaki. Jones Library and the Kanegasaki Town Library formed a partnership 2003. The superintendent of the Kanegasaki Board of Education, Yuetsu Chiba, 67, who previously taught for 38 years, attended Thursdays Jones Library celebration. Through a translator, Daneil DeGrasse, an English instructor at Kanegasaki public schools, Chiba said in an interview this relationship is treasured by our town in Japan. The town of about 16,000, he said, enrolls approximately 1,200 students. Chiba said the relationship has continued 30 years because of the warm hearts of Amherst, adding, The people of Kanegasaki are very thankful. We hope this relationship will continue. Amherst resident Vivienne Carey, who was born in Liverpool, England, immigrated to the U.S. 40 years ago. It is wonderful to be in a community where the library is such an important part of the town, she said in an interview. She participates in a monthly knitting group at the library that was also meeting on Thursday. Asked what she was creating, Carey said a laced scarf, from Merino wool, from the hairs of sheep raised in Australia, which is a finer, thinner, and softer type of wool. The 100th anniversary celebration of the Jones includes events each month for the next year. Among them, Watson will read from Hearth and Soul on May 9, when copies of it will be on sale. Others include Robert Frost poems read on July 18 by Stephen Collins; a guided tour of the librarys special collections Aug. 8; and a walking tour outside the library set for Sept. 14. A program planned on Nov. 2 has the title Short Skirts, Oh My! History of Womens Rights. The celebrations conclude March 21, 2020, when Amherst authors will read from the works of their forebears. A 71-year-old woman was struck and seriously injured Friday morning as she crossed Notre Dame Street in Westfield. Westfield Police Sgt. Jeffrey Baillargeon said the woman was crossing the street near 117 Notre Dame Street, about 100 yards west of its intersection with North Elm Street, at about 6:40 a.m. when she was struck by a westbound car. The victim was in a crosswalk at the time of the accident. The driver of the vehicle, a 56-year-old male, remained at the scene and was interviewed by police. Baillargeon said the woman was transported to the Baystate Medical Center with serious injuries. The Westfield Police Traffic Bureau is investigating the incident in cooperation with the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section and state police detectives attached to the Hampden District Attorneys Office. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte held talks in Rome Saturday on jointly elevating the China-Italy relations into a new era and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance the construction of the Belt and Road. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte hold talks in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2019. [Photo: Xinhua/Lan Hongguang] During their talks, Xi noted that the China-Italy relations are rooted in the history of the two countries' thousand-year-old exchanges, with strong public support. In recent years, the two countries have continuously deepened their communication and cooperation in various fields, which helped each other's social and economic development, Xi said. Calling China and Italy important strategic partners to each other, Xi urged both sides to view and handle the bilateral ties from a strategic height with long-term perspective. The two countries should take the opportunities of the 15th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership this year and the 50th anniversary of China-Italy diplomatic relations next year to jointly elevate bilateral relations into a new era, and allow their practical cooperation fruits in various fields better serve the two peoples, Xi said. With similar development goals, China and Italy have strong complementarity in economy and bright prospect of cooperation, the Chinese president said. China is willing to work with the Italian side to comprehensively expand and deepen bilateral ties, he said. Xi encouraged China and Italy to enhance top-level design, consolidate political basis, promote high-level exchanges, increase dialogue between various departments and on all levels, and continue to render mutual understanding and support on issues of each other's core interests and major concern. China and Italy were at the two ends of the ancient Silk Road, thus they have every reason to carry out cooperation on the Belt and Road, Xi said. "We adhere to the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, follow the principle of transparency and openness, and aim for cooperation of win-win results." He urged the two countries to take the opportunity of the inking of the intergovernmental MoU on jointly building the Belt and Road to strengthen the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with Italy's plan to develop its northern ports and the InvestItalia program, and promote mutually beneficial cooperation in all fields. The two countries should increase convergence of interests, optimize and upgrade their cooperation, and achieve more early results in priority areas such as space technology, infrastructure construction, transport, environment and energy, Xi said. China and Italy should also strengthen communication and coordination on macroeconomic policy and jointly push forward third-market cooperation in such fields as energy, finance and infrastructure construction, he said. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte hold talks in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2019. [Photo: Xinhua/Li Xueren] Xi urged the two countries to take the opportunity of the culture and tourism year, to be held in each other's country in 2020, to forge friendly bonds of their world heritage sites and increase exchanges and cooperation between their museums, at local levels, and in sports and other sectors. China and Italy should also join hands in advocating trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, continue to strengthen communication on major issues such as the United Nations affairs, WTO reform, climate change and global governance, and safeguard multilateralism together, he said. The Chinese president noted that China sticks to further opening up and welcomes Italian and other countries' enterprises to invest and start business in China. "We also encourage Chinese enterprises, especially high-tech companies, to invest and develop in Italy, and regard Italy as an important partner in cooperation on science and technology innovation," Xi told Conte. The Chinese government has always encouraged Chinese enterprises to conduct overseas cooperation according to business principles and international rules, and on the basis of abiding by local laws, Xi said, urging the Italian government to continue to provide good business environment for Chinese investors. Calling China and the European Union (EU) constructors of world peace, contributors to global development and protectors of international order, Xi said the two sides should follow the trend of the times featuring a world of multi-polarization and economic globalization, and push for the construction of an open world economy. He urged the two sides to accelerate the negotiations on a China-EU investment agreement, enhance the synergy of the BRI and the EU's development strategies, and boost communication and coordination on major international and regional issues. Xi said he hopes that the Italian side would continue to play an active role in deepening China-EU dialogue and cooperation in all fields and promote independent and stable development of China-EU ties. For his part, Conte said Xi's visit to Italy bears historic significance and will lead the Italy-China relations to a higher level. Noting that the two countries have a thousand-year-old history of exchanges, the Italian prime minister said the two ancient civilizations have interwoven with each other, with long-standing exchanges in economy, trade and culture, which served as an important foundation for the long-term development of their friendly cooperation. Italy attaches great importance to its relations with China, and is willing to deepen the Italy-China comprehensive strategic partnership and expand cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, energy, agriculture, culture, tourism and aviation, on the occasion of the upcoming 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Conte said. With a special geographical advantage in building connectivity, Italy is glad to seize the historic opportunity in joining the Belt and Road construction, Conte said, adding that he strongly believes that it will help fully explore the potential of Italy-China cooperation. The prime minister said he is looking forward to attending the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, adding that Italy welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in Italy and realize mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. Italy stands firm in supporting multilateralism and free trade, and ready to closely communicate and coordinate with China so as to promote healthy and stable development of EU-China ties, he said. After their talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of multiple bilateral cooperation documents, including the MoU on jointly advancing the construction of the Belt and Road, and the document on the return of Chinese relics confiscated by Italy. They also paid a visit together to see the Chinese relics. Xi arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. by Chuck Martin , Staff Writer, March 21, 2019 In a rather clever use of augmented reality, Burger King is using it so customers can virtually burn the ads of its competitors. Using an AR feature in the Burger King app, consumers in Brazil can aim their phone at the ad of a competitor. The ad being viewed through the phone camera then appears to totally burn up, being replaced by an ad for a Burger King Whopper, as detailed in a company video. The Burn That Ad campaign, created by David Sao Paulo, then provides a screen letting the consumer know they can then receive a free Whopper at the nearest Burger King. Technology as a means to provide the best customer experience is one of our main investment targets in 2019, said Ariel Grunkraut, Burger King's marketing and sales director for Brazil in a statement. To create the BK Express experience, our exclusive payment technology via mobile phone available in Brazil, we offer some fun interaction in augmented reality for our brand's lovers through the app. And those using the service also get a free Whopper. Creative uses of augmented reality are becoming limitless. Reading Eagle Company, a Reading, Pennsylvania-based, family-owned media company, has filed for bankruptcy protection. For more than a century, you have taken us into your homes and supported us as we've told your stories and reported on the events and policies that shape your lives, Reading Eagle stated in a note to readers. We hope you will stay with us as we move through this period of change. The company has published the daily Reading Eagle newspaper for over 150 years; it also owns WEEU 830 AM, the weekly South Schuylkill News, Pretzel City Productions and its commercial printing subsidiary REP. Reading Eagle Company says it will continue to operate as usual, and publish and broadcast under bankruptcy rules while it finds a buyer. advertisement advertisement CFO Shawn P. Moliatu told a Reading Eagle reporter he is putting together a group of community investors and bank financing to bid on the company and keep it under local ownership. The company has 236 full-time employees and 20 part-time. In May 2018, the Eagle cut 16% of its newsroom staff; 11 people were let go, and two vacant positions were eliminated. The Eagle was founded by Jesse G. Hawley and William S. Ritter in 1868 and has been owned by the Hawley family ever since. Reading Eagles president and CEO Peter D. Barbey was also the owner of New York Citys iconic alt-weekly The Village Voice, which he bought in 2015, and then shuttered last fall. The Barbey family owns retail companies like Vans, The North Face, The Timberland Company and Lee jeans. The Reading Eagle Company has retained a media broker, Dirks, Van Essen, Murray & April, and has met with several potential buyers over the past few months. The Reading Eagle has an average daily circulation of over 37,000, and more than 50,000 on Sunday, according to the company. It says its website averages over 600,000 unique users and 3.2 million page views a month. Separately, Spirited Media announced a few weeks ago it would sell Philadelphia news site Billy Penn, as well as its Denverite and Pittsburgh site The Incline, and move into consulting. Both Denverite and The Incline have been sold. We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Heres our process. Cysts and boils both cause lumps to form under the skin. They are often similar in appearance, but their causes and treatment are not the same. In this article, we provide an overview of cysts and boils, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment. We also explain how a person can tell the difference between the two. What are cysts and boils? Share on Pinterest A doctor can determine whether a lump under the skin is a cyst or boil. A cyst is a small fluid-filled lump that can form in or on a persons body. It can be easy to confuse a cyst with a boil as they may have similar symptoms. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD), there are three types of common skin cyst: epidermal cysts trichilemmal cysts milia Epidermal and trichilemmal cysts look very similar to each other, but the latter mostly occur on a persons scalp. Milia cysts are smaller and tend to occur more on the face, especially around the eyes. Cysts are usually benign, which means that they are noncancerous. According to the National Centre for Biotechnology Information , bacterial infections are responsible for causing boils, which are pus-filled lumps under the skin that form around hair follicles. How to identify them Skin cysts and boils can present in a similar way, but they are not the same. According to the AOCD, a person can move an epidermal cyst under their skin. Skin usually covers the cyst, but it may sometimes have a central pore. Cysts range in size from 0.5 to several centimeters. A person will not usually notice any symptoms alongside their cyst. However, if the cyst ruptures or gets infected, it may become red, swollen, and painful, closely resembling a boil. Boils are similar to large, painful pimples, and they can be a little larger than cysts. In most cases, they appear red and swollen, and they contain yellow pus. A person is most likely to get boils on their face or neck, but they can also appear: in the armpits around the groin, including the genitals on the thighs on the bottom Differences in symptoms, causes, and treatments Despite their similar appearance, there are important differences between cysts and boils. Cysts If a person has a cyst without inflammation, they may not experience any associated symptoms, but if the cyst does become inflamed, it may be red, swollen, and painful. A cyst can rupture on sudden exposure to pressure, for example, if a person falls on it. If it does burst, a person may notice yellow, unpleasant-smelling pus. It is not clear exactly why people get cysts, but they form when skin cells quickly multiply. Gardners syndrome and Gorlins syndrome can cause a person to develop cysts. These lumps may also have an association with sun damage to a persons skin, and some medications might increase the likelihood of a cyst forming. Cysts can also appear after a person sustains damage to their skin, although the underlying cause is often not clear. Treatment for a cyst usually involves minor surgery to remove it. A doctor will give the individual a local anesthetic before removing the whole of the cyst, making as small an incision as possible to try to prevent scarring. Boils Share on Pinterest Applying a damp, warm cloth to a boil may help it heal. Unlike most cysts, boils are swollen, red, and sore. People may see yellow pus in or on the boil. A boil may make a person feel weak or tired if they develop a fever because of the bacterial infection. Boils usually occur as a result of bacterial infection around a hair follicle. This infection causes the surrounding skin cells to die, and pus then replaces them. Sometimes, several boils will develop in a cluster, which is called a carbuncle. If a person has other skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, they may be more likely to develop a boil because their skin is more susceptible to bacterial infection. Although bacteria are the underlying cause of boils, antibiotics are not usually the first treatment for a boil unless it is severe or many boils have formed. People can often treat boils at home. The American Academy of Dermatology recommend applying a warm, damp, clean cloth to the boil. Doing this encourages the boil to release its pus, which helps it heal. Ibuprofen, available over the counter or online, can help relieve pain and inflammation. A person should not squeeze a boil as this may worsen the infection. If a boil is severe or persistent, a doctor might take a sample of the pus in the boil and send it to a laboratory to determine which bacterial infection has caused it. When they know which bacteria are responsible, the doctor can prescribe the most effective antibiotic to fight the infection. SAN FRANCISCO March 22, 2019 Nigeria Kingsley C. Anukam Jessica Richman Saint Joseph's Ontario Benin Nigeria Nigeria Harvard University Stanford University Massachusetts Institute of Technology MIT University of California, San Francisco Oxford University University of Sydney Harvard University Stanford University Massachusetts Institute of Technology MIT University of California, San Francisco Oxford University University of Sydney /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- uBiome has awarded microbiome research support in study design, planning, sample collection, and analysis to a team of researchers at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Anambra State,led by Dr., PhD, and supported by Dr. Nneka R. Agbokoba, PhD, of the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences and Deputy Provost, College of Health Sciences. The study hopes to determine urinary tract microbiome compositions of culture-positive urine and culture-negative urine and evaluate whether oral consumption of probiotics designed for the prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs) could be found in voided clean-catch midstream urine.UTI is one of the most common conditions in clinical practice in the developing world, yet urine samples for culture procedures designed to detect fast-growing aerobic organisms may not detect other slow-growing anaerobic/fastidious bacteria. This may lead to clinicians diagnosing UTIs based solely on symptoms and prescribing unwarranted antibiotics. Researchers hope this study will improve our understanding of the diversity of bacteria that colonize the urinary tract in health and diseased conditions. Data collected from the study will include urine microbiome composition from uBiome's patented kits, the presence of nitrite, leucocytes, and bacteria in the clean-catch midstream urine, and type of clinically-tested probiotic (in warm dairy or water) given to study participants."This is an exciting study which may contribute to a better understanding of the urinary tract microbiome and potentially improve the current treatment of UTIs," Dr., PhD, co-founder and CEO of uBiome, said. "We look forward to supporting Nnamdi Azikiwe University with this study."Dr. Anukam is a visiting researcher at the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences at Nnamdi Azikiwe University where he supervises postgraduate students working in the area of the human microbiome and probiotics. He is also the Research Coordinator atHealth Care London inand the Research Unit Leader of the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World (TWAS). He was previously a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences at the University ofin. Dr. Anukam has over 50 peer-reviewed scientific publications and four refereed book chapters, and he is the editor of more than 30 journals.About the grant, Dr. Anukam said, "uBiome has made the impossible, possible. With their state-of-the-art technology, students and academic staffs of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science lept into the air with joy. uBiome has uplifted the standard of their research projects, which can compete with the rest of the international academic community ashas a track record of not providing funds for academic research. We look forward to receiving more assistance from uBiome in our future grant applications."The grant was made possible through uBiome's Microbiome Grant Initiative. The Microbiome Grant Initiative has awarded millions of dollars in research support to hundreds of investigators around the world at renowned academic institutions and not-for-profit research organizations, including, the),, and the. Awards include patented microbiome sequencing kits, as well as research support in study design, planning, sample collection, and analysis. To learn more about our award process or to submit a grant proposal, visit http://www.ubiome.com/microbiome-grant-initiative/._____ About uBiome Founded in 2012, uBiome is the leader in microbial genomics. The Company's mission is to advance the science of the microbiome and make it useful to people. uBiome combines its patented proprietary precision sequencing with machine learning and artificial intelligence to develop wellness products, clinical tests, and therapeutic targets. uBiome has filed for over 250 patents on its technology, which includes sample preparation, computational analysis, molecular techniques, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic applications.uBiome's commercial products include SmartGut, the world's first sequencing-based clinical microbiome test, which identifies microbes in the gut for patients with chronic gut conditions such as IBD, IBS, Crohn's Disease, and ulcerative colitis; SmartJane, the first sequencing-based women's health screening test, which genotypes all 19 clinically relevant strains of HPV, identifies four common STDs, and surveys more than 20 vaginal microbes associated with bacterial vaginosis and other conditions; and Explorer, a health and wellness product to understand the role that food and lifestyle can play in wellness.uBiome's platform has been used by hundreds of thousands of consumers, patients, and doctors and more than 200 research institutions around the world, including the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), US National Institutes of Health (NIH),, the),, and theSince its launch, the company has received widespread recognition including CNN 10: Startups to Watch, the IVY Technology Award, CNN Future 30, and was named one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies in Healthcare in 2016 and in Data Science in 2018, as well as a Technology Pioneer from the World Economic Forum in 2018. For more information, visit http://www.uBiome.com.SOURCE Ubiome With Indian summers just around the corner, it's time for Indian men to start upgrading their wardrobes in order to beat the heat and look their fashionable best. This can be a singularly challenging task since adorning an ensemble that won't just make you look good, but will also help you combat Indian summers, all the while ensuring that you feel comfortable in that ensemble, isn't easy. Fortunately, we have made that task easier for you by conducting the proper research and compiling a list of some comfortable and stylish sleeveless t shirts for men. We cannot change the weather for you, but what we can do is get you the best gear to adapt to it. Now before you invest in a sleeveless tee for yourself, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. Let's get you acquainted with the essentials: 1. The fit: You might be mistaken if you think that the fit of a sleeveless tee isn't really a matter of much concern. In reality, it's incredibly easy for your sleeveless t shirt to be too loose (often the case when you buy a size too large). So, make sure that you go for a fit that is comfortable and relaxing, but at the same time, isn't too large so as to draw attention for all the wrong reasons. 2. The colour palette: In this afflicting heat, no one wants to be further tortured by the sight of tacky coloured clothes! So, avoid wearing colours that are too bright or blinding. Also, don't go for dark colours as they tend to absorb more heat than other shades. Colours like white, grey, beige, and even light blue make most sense to invest in. 3. The material: The fabric composition should always be your concern when shopping for any kind of apparel. After all, the material of your clothes should be breathable so that your body doesn't feel stifled. When it comes to making a decision and choosing the best material available, cotton, especially Supima cotton, makes for a great and reliable alternative. So without further ado, and keeping the above three factors in mind, here is a list of 10 of the best sleeveless t shirts for men that will make you look AND feel cool. 1. Jockey's Sleeveless Cotton Ribbed T Shirt Ajio For all those men who want to keep things simple, this solid navy blue sleeveless t shirt from Jockey will help you keep things low-key. You can wear it as it is, or you could pair it up with a flannel or half-sleeved white shirt for a casual summer look. You can even wear this to the gym and show off your biceps and triceps! This sleeveless t shirt just doesn't look great, it feels great too! It's made of pure cotton so you can rest assured about its quality. The fact that it also happens to be supremely affordable - making it a great option for all those on a budget - only ends up being an added bonus. Fabric Composition: Pure cotton MRP: Rs. 299 Buy it here 2. Roadster's Black Solid Round Neck Layered T Shirt Myntra Speaking of affordable options, this subtle yet stylish sleeveless t shirt from Roadster makes for a great investment as well, especially if you're a man who likes to keep things casual. The layered detail gives it a modish look without making you have to put in much effort. You can team this black sleeveless t shirt up with either a pair of classic black denims, navy blue chino shorts, or even washed and ripped jeans for an edgy ensemble. Fabric Composition: Pure cotton MRP: Rs. 399 Buy it here 3. Teamspirit's Colourblocked Sleeveless T Shirt Ajio We all know that colourblocked t shirts are in trend right now. This isn't all that surprising, especially since colourblocked patterns give your outfit a very appealing look. So if you want to turn heads with your outfit, this is a great investment for you! And at its reasonable price, this is probably one of the most cheap sleeveless t shirts for men available in the market right now. It stands out on its own merits (the patch pocket with the tropical print only adds to its appeal), so there is no need for you to layer it up with a shirt or additional accessories. It is perfect for a casual outing with your homies, or even a Sunday brunch with your bae. MRP: Rs. 359 Buy it here 4. ASOS's Polaroid Sleeveless T Shirt ASOS Old-school polaroid pictures are very much in trend right now, and so is this sleeveless polaroid t shirt! This white variant from ASOS, with a typography print and rainbow stripes, give it a stylish and current vibe, while the loose fit makes it the perfect attire to adorn during a scorching summer heat. This is easily one of the best sleeveless t shirts for men that are available in the market right now. Although it might seem like this is priced a bit on the higher side, its uber cool style and simple design make it stand out from the lot. Fabric Composition: 100% polyester MRP: Rs. 1,654 (including shipping charges) Buy it here 5. ASOS's Contrast Pocket Sleeveless T Shirt ASOS A white sleeveless t shirt, with a contrast pocket and low-cut armholes, is just what you need to pull off a trendy outfit. It makes for the perfect outfit for a beach day with your buddies, a pool party, or casual scene with your crew. It's subtle yet voguish, and will help you make a style statement in the most effortless manner possible. And at its price point, this also makes for an absolute steal of a deal. Fabric Composition: Pure cotton MRP: Rs. 735 (including shipping charges) Buy it here 6. HERE&NOW's Striped Round Neck T Shirt Myntra From the lot of best sleeveless t shirts available out there, this particular whtie, burgundy, and blue striped variant makes for the perfect summer look. The colours are appealing and cool, with the armholes being slightly bigger than usual. Your can pair this uber cool t shirt with a solid half-sleeved shirt and black chinos for a fashion-forward ensemble that will help you grab everyone's attention. Fabric Composition: Pure cotton MRP: Rs. 329 Buy it here 7. HYPE's White Script Sleeveless T Shirt Hype If you're someone who doesn't want to put in too much work when it comes to ministering their outfit, then this white sleeveless t shirt from Hype will do the trick. Team this stylish tee up with a pair of ripped jeans and white sneakers to adorn a fashion-forward ensemble. The price may seem a bit higher, but you can rest assured that, keeping in mind its quality and durability, this makes for an investment you won't regret making. Fabric Composition: Pure cotton MRP: Rs. 2,755 (including shipping charges) Buy It Here 8. Tiktauli's Camo Print Sleeveless T Shirt Koovs This camouflage print sleeveless t shirt is one of the flyest t shirts available in the apparel arena right now! You don't even have to worry about layering it up, as wearing it with a cool pair of black chino shorts or washed black jeans is more than enough to help you adorn an arresting ensemble. It also makes for a great addition to your workout gear, especially at its affordable price tag. Fabric Composition: Pure cotton MRP: Rs. 699 Buy It Here 9. ASOS's Muscle Hoodie ASOS Do you absolutely swear by hoodies, but are worried about not being able to wear them during the scorching Indian summers? Well fret not, because this sleeveless hooded t shirt from ASOS gives you the best of both worlds! You just have to team it up with a pair of light coloured trousers (grey, beige, or white work) and you're all set to create a lasting (and fashionable!) impression by adorning a cool and hip outfit! Fabric Composition: 96% cotton and 4% elastane MRP: Rs. 1,470 (including shipping charges) Buy it here 10. HRX's Green Solid Rapid Dry Sleeveless T Shirt Myntra And finally, we have another option for the gym rats out there! This sleeveless t shirt from HRX is absolutely perfect for your early morning runs or evening gym sessions. It's engineered with Rapid Dry technology that helps absorb sweat and moisture, making it the perfect option for a high-intensity workout. With this t shirt, there won't be any nasty sweat patches on your clothes and you'll look fresh all day. This is unquestionably a quintessential buy for the summer, and one of the best sleeveless t shirts for men to own. Fabric Composition: 83% polyester and 17% elastane MRP: Rs. 659 Buy it here Read More: Best printed t shirts for men Best Supima Cotton T-shirts Best Round Neck T Shirts For Men Best Camouflage T-Shirt For Men Best Collar T Shirts For Men On March 15, the prayers of the worshippers at a Christchurch mosque turned into screams, after a gunman mercilessly opened fire and killed nearly 50 people. This was, like Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, "one of New Zealand's darkest days". Since then, the whole nation has come together as one, to mourn the loss of the people killed in the attack and wipe the tears of their family members. Reuters Post the attack, PM Jacinda Ardern has been standing in solidarity with the Muslim community and Ardern even said "We are one" in one of the interviews post the attack. Ardern is being hailed as a hero across the world for standing together with the victims and their families and for tightening gun laws in the country. Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building in Dubai, too honoured her by lighting up with a photo of Ardern in a hijab hugging a woman after the Christchurch shootings. Reuters UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum took to Twitter to thank PM Jacinda Ardern and wrote, "New Zealand today fell silent in honour of the mosque attacks' martyrs. Thank you PM @jacindaardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world." New Zealand today fell silent in honour of the mosque attacks' martyrs. Thank you PM @jacindaardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world. pic.twitter.com/9LDvH0ybhD HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) March 22, 2019 People on social media too shared the picture in order to honour Ardern and the heartwarming gesture displayed on the Burj Khalifa. Great work (@EVikdup2RIcSBPO) March 23, 2019 Jacinda Ardern graces the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa https://t.co/4FkHYTfIQ0 Alienist (@ailienist1) March 23, 2019 Peace and Prayers to all those souls (@3wpUppNCIE2xUvp) March 23, 2019 Photograph at burjkhalifa with the caption "Peace." New Zealand's empathy & support for the bereaved families of the victims of the terrorist attack has earned wide respect. pic.twitter.com/cND2JmQpWc Rana M Zulfiqar (@Bismillah2M) March 23, 2019 CASEVILLE For Kathleen Tighe, the route to becoming a teacher crisscrossed the world. She was raised in New Jersey and is now a teacher at Caseville High School. In the interim, she attended Rutgers University, where she earned a degree in English, and then pursued a career in journalism. I was very inspired, when I was a little kid, with the stories about Watergate ... the journalists bringing that administration down, Tighe said. I had a few experiences in journalism. I had an internship and worked a little bit for the Woodbridge News Tribune, and briefly for the Elizabeth Daily Journal, one of the first newspapers in the country. It was a short-lived career. I realized I didnt have the temperament, the killer instinct, to go after the stories, Tighe said. I liked it, but I wasnt very good at pushing with the hard questions. Moving on, Tighe took a job in the publishing industry, working for the New York City-based McMillan Publishing Company. She became a marketing representative in the international division. I worked there for about six years, Tighe said. It was an exciting job, and I loved it. In the course of her overseas duties, she met a Detroit native who was teaching in Saudi Arabia at the time. They ultimately became a couple. We met at a conference in Greece, Tighe said. At the point where we decided we were going to be a thing, I went back to school and got my teaching credentials. She ended up teaching in Saudi Arabia for 13 years. During that time, she had two children. Wanting to raise their kids in the U.S., the Tighes began looking for work closer to home. Her husband became the superintendent at Caseville Schools, and Kathleen Tighe took a teaching job. That was 18 years ago. I teach the high school English classes, Tighe said. That includes the regular English 10, 11, and 12, and I teach the advanced placement English classes. She is also the publications instructor. We put together the year book and publish the school newspaper, Tighe said. I love it. Its an opportunity to be a little more creative than the regular classes allow us to be. Publishing a school newspaper gives her the chance to return to her journalism days. She feels that reporting the news is important, and is concerned with the state of journalism in todays society. I worry about where people are getting their news, Tighe said. I worry about the quality of that news. I think the way newspapers have been put together traditionally ... theres a lot of research that goes into whats going to be published. And, theres time to make sure that whats being published is accurate. With our current 24-hour news cycle, the minute somethings reported, its out there. She believes there are disadvantages to having instant access to the news. There isnt the same kind of in-depth research being put into it, Tighe said. Ive thought about this a lot recently, about the fact that we, as Americans, dont seem to have a shared news source the way people used to. My parents tuned in to the same source as everyone else, like Walter Cronkite, who had built up a reputation as being trustworthy. I dont think we have that today. She thinks it has affected the attention span of her students. Its all so fast, Tighe said. They dont take the time to think about it, and reflect. Even just the activity of reading the newspaper ... flipping the pages and going through the stories ... its a very different mental process. Its very difficult to get the kids to slow down and really pay attention to something for a long period of time. Reading and writing are important components of her classes, and the inability to concentrate for long periods of time affects their ability to study. Those are skills that require you to take your time, to think things through and go back over, if necessary," Tighe said. "Asking students to do that now is a lot more difficult than it used to be. Kids have always had distractions. Thats nothing new. Im more worried about brain activity ... the fact that asking them to sit quietly and read for 15 minutes is hard for them to do. She thinks the instant access and fast pace of the Internet is both good and bad. Its a blessing and a curse, Tighe said. Its a curse because I constantly have to remind my students that their text language ... that is appropriate in a text ... is different than academic language. I try to teach them that they write for different audiences. When writing a message to a friend, you dont have to capitalize, but if youre writing academically, thats more formal, and you have to pay attention to standards. I have to teach that lesson every single day. On the other hand, her students actually write more than in pre-Internet days. Its a blessing, because of the media they have, Tighe said. Students are writing more than they ever have. Teenagers 20 years ago, if they didnt like to write, they didnt write. Now, they are blogging, or logging into social media, and writing that way. So, in that sense, theyre seeing using language as something valuable. Due to the Internet, they also read more. But its a different type of reading. They dont read books as much as they did at one time, Tighe said. I still have readers, but I think thats decreasing. I worry, and there seems to be some research proof, that technology is altering our actual ability to set and read for an extended period of time ... that its actually becoming physically difficult. She counters their diminishing attention span by changing the way she teaches. I give them time to read in class, Tighe said. I used to assign reading outside school. I still ask them to read at home, but I give them more time to read in class. I think its important that I give them time to do it, because I dont think theyll do it otherwise. Teaching reading and writing is challenging, but something Tighe enjoys. Her chosen subjects are dear to her. I love literature and English, Tighe said. When I teach a favorite piece of literature, thats just a great thing for me ... my students would probably say I love Shakespeare, and I do. When were coving it, its nice to see the unlikely kids that show an interest. And thats rewarding. That continuous feeling of being pleased by seeing her students positively react to the subjects she teaches instills in Tighe a sense of accomplishment. She has no plans to retire soon. I feel like I still have something valuable to offer my students, and the school, she said. When Im in my classroom with my students, its a good thing. I have felt that what I do makes a difference. Tighe is liked and respected by her students, and their parents. So much so, that the parents of a former student nominated her for an award for teachers from the Michigan Lottery. She had no idea of her nomination until she was informed recently that she was recognized as a winner of the Michigan Lotterys Excellence in Education Award. The award was for encouraging students to excel, and for providing them new experiences and learning opportunities. Tighe received a plaque and a $1,500 cash prize. In addition, the school received a $500 grant, which Tighe used to buy books for her classroom. Her award also put her in the running for Educator of the Year. Not bad for a former journalist and world-traveling New Jersey girl. UPPER THUMB Being the daughter of a General Motors executive, Susan Dubs moved around a lot while growing up. Born in Pennsylvania to parents who are native Detroiters, Dubs family lived in a variety of places, including Long Island, New York, and Alabama while she attended school, ultimately graduating from Baldwinsville High School, near Syracuse, New York. Furthering her education, she attended Auburn University in Alabama for two years. She then moved to Dallas, Texas, where she graduated from Southern Methodist University with a bachelors of business administration, specializing in accounting. Her travels continued as she entered the work force. I worked for a hotel in Dallas, Texas, Dubs said. I was a service manager. Then I worked at an insurance company in Chicago, before I ended up back here. Throughout her travels as a youngster, her family had managed to find time for vacationing in the Thumb. My parents have been coming here since 1956, Dubs said. My dads godfather had a cottage on Sand Point. Growing up, Huron County was a place my family came for vacation. In 1998, she moved to Huron County, where she started a day care center. Along the way, Dubs met a Laker Schools teacher who suggested she would make a good substitute teacher. So she applied for a job as a sub. I didnt know I could sub with an accounting degree, Dubs said. I started subbing here, and at Bad Axe, and different places. I found out I had something I could give back to children. After subbing for three years, she decided to return to school in 2001. Dubs attended Saginaw Valley State University, graduating in 2004 with a teaching certificate. She worked at Cass City High School from 2004 until 2007, and then was hired at Laker Schools in the 2007-08 school year. Shes been there ever since, and plans to continue teaching at Lakers until retirement. I have degrees for 6-12 English, 6-12 math, and K-12 in special education, Dubs said. I co-teach special education with three other teachers. Her duties at Lakers include teaching algebra, English, world history and chemistry, as well as being the special education coordinator. Some classes are in conjunction with other teachers, in their classrooms, where her special education students with individual education program (IEPs) are included. Other students are pulled out, and taught in a separate classroom. At Lakers, we have lots of inclusion classes, Dubs said, because the State of Michigan and the federal government looks at the least restrictive environment to the general population, as better. An IEP is a document that is developed for each child eligible for special education. We write goals and objectives, and any special needs a student may have, Dubs said. We have students that are shared with the learning center program, but most of the kids I work with are on diploma track. A lot of my job is to make sure theyre ready for life after high school. Qualification for special education is done through a series of consultations by a team. The team consists of Dubs, a school psychologist, and a school social worker. Input also comes from the general education teachers, and the students parents are part of the team. The parents are involved in the complete process, Dubs said. We never not include the parents, or the student. Not every special education student needs help throughout their school years. Some do well in some subjects, but need help in other areas. Ive had kids that have compensated, especially when it comes to math, Dubs said. They have compensated along the way, but then have trouble when it comes to algebra. I work with the general education algebra teacher. Even though she has a degree in accounting and a love of numbers, Dubs loves her teaching schedule at Lakers. I dont want to call myself a geek, but I love math, Dubs said. What I like most about what I do is that I have a balance, because I also love literature and writing. I teach English and world history, but I love math. Im not doing math or English all day long, I get a wide variety, so Im never bored. Her students have an assortment of learning problems, but most will go on to be productive members of society. I have a lot of kids that go on to further education, Dubs said. Ive got a lot in the health/science program at the tech center; a lot of them are going on to be CNAs or LPNs. There are also students who go on to other types of jobs. We work with the Michigan Rehabilitative Services, Dubs said. Kids have an opportunity to work at places like Sleeper State Park during their school years. Ive had many kids work through the MRS that got a CDL or welding license. Ive had kids get heavy equipment licenses, or go for office and computer technology type of stuff. I currently have one in the culinary field. Satisfaction comes from seeing them do well. They decide what they want to do, and I help them do it, Dubs said. I want to see them be successful in life, to be happy and find something they like to do. I love working with kids every day, and I plan on doing it for another 16 years, until I retire. I love giving back to the community, and giving back to the kids. As if teaching isnt grueling enough, she keeps busy away from school by cooking for families in need. Involved in a program called Meal Train, Dubs prepares meals for people who are undergoing personal problems that may prevent them from concentrating on day-to-day activities, such as a recent birth, surgery or illness. In addition, she is involved in the Laker Relay for Life Team. Weve been doing that since 2011, Dubs said. We hit our 100,000 mark this year. She is also the junior class advisor, and is an avid photographer, taking numerous photos throughout the years. At graduation, she presents students with prints documenting their school activities. Growing up in a variety of locations prepared Dubs for her future by experiencing differences in lifestyles, and the desire to help kids. Her love of teaching combined with her love of this area means the students of Laker Schools will be able to enjoy her brand of special education for years to come. PIGEON A primary care physician is the first line of defense in our healthcare system. When someone isnt feeling well, they make an appointment with their family doctor. The doctor examines them, and decides on a course of action designed to alleviate the problem. Dr. Laurey Hanselman, a primary care physician in the Scheurer Healthcare Network, has been a family doctor for 27 years. And, she is good at it. An Ubly High School graduate, Hanselman attended Michigan State University, where she earned degrees in medical technology and micro biology. She has taught courses on micro biology and other topics at Michigan State University. Hanselman was also involved in research on the Pertussis vaccine with the Michigan Department of Health. I was in research from 85 to 92, Hanselman said. I did my residency and med school during that time, too. She enjoyed the research, convinced of its importance, but missed dealing with people one-on-one. I really needed to get back to the personal contact with medicine, Hanselman said. I like to help people. That is an overwhelming interest, and I think Im a very compassionate person. I think those are the two things that led me to go into medicine. Except for emergencies, a family doctor is the first stop for anyone needing a physicians care. You are the person who sees the patient and really has to figure out whats going on, Hanselman said. You have to decide what a patient needs, and where theyre going to go. I think primary care is a calling, and I really enjoy what I do every day. It may not be for everyone, however. I have medical students with me a lot, Hanselman said. I tell them, if you dont like it, get out of it. Because there are way too many things that will be difficult to do on a daily basis that will bring you down, if you dont like what you do. One of those things is the amount of paperwork and record keeping involved in the practice of modern day medicine. Even though records are kept electronically, the information still has to be entered manually. In addition, not all hospitals use the same system, so paper copies need to be scanned into the system and transferred from place to place. Theres someone here full time that does scanning in our office, Hanselman said. Over the last 10 years, theyve gone from practically no one having electronic medical records, to almost everyone having electronic medical records. And, the way medicine gets paid for has changed over the years, and is continuing to change. You have to make those transitions. You cant be stuck in your old ways, and I think were working towards that very well. Using a computer to access information is convenient, but can be time consuming. In some ways, its harder, Hanselman said. Sometimes finding things can be difficult. Problems develop when a patient is transferred from or to a hospital or healthcare network that doesnt use the same system as the Scheurer Healthcare Network. When that happens, someone on her staff has to find the correct record, and scan it into their system. Once thats done, the process of actually helping a patient is quicker. Sometimes it used to take weeks or months to get a file, Hanselman said. Now we can access them immediately. Its faster, and much more reliable, especially when it comes to cancer care or heart care. If someone is hospitalized for heart problems, you can go in and look right at it. Thats amazing. A primary care physicians day is spent seeing patients with a variety of problems. We take care of patients that have multi-system diseases, and multiple diseases, Hanselman said. I enjoy doing that, because I think it requires a lot of thought and multi-tasking. And Im good at that. An extremely organized person, Hanselman manages her daily schedule of seeing patients in her Pigeon office, as well as those admitted to the hospital. She also finds time to oversee Scheurer Urgent Care. Urgent Care is used for situations that dont require a tremendous amount of intervention, Hanselman said. Things like sore throats, urinary tract infections, acute bronchitis ... maybe a small laceration, something like that. An emergency room is for major situations. Urgent Care is staffed by a physicians assistant and nurse practitioners, and Hanselman works in the unit one weekend a month. I supervise the staff, so I feel its important to be there to make sure everythings going well, Hanselman said. We have specific guidelines they follow, as to what goes to the emergency room, and what doesnt. Urgent Care is open from 3 to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 1 to 8 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Her clinic is open weekdays, and she sees an average of 30 patients each day. Hanselman relies heavily on her staff to keep things organized and running smoothly. I have the best staff, she said. They do a top notch job, and I couldnt function without them. Its a team effort. Because of the increase in paperwork and record keeping, the size of her staff has increased over the years. I have a group of nurses that take care of everything from scheduling to prior authorization, everything that needs to be done for the patient, Hanselman said. A lot of the staffs time is taken up dealing with the rules and regulations associated with insurance coverage. It has become a huge part of modern medicine. The one thing Ive seen over the last 10 years is the amount of paperwork thats required for every patient, Hanselman said. In terms of insurance, not just for prior authorizations for medicine, but prior authorizations for any test that need to be done. Those are all things that go on behind the scenes that patients are never aware of. But they have to be done, and that takes more time and people. Its necessary in order to provide the best care possible. It ensures patients get what they need, Hanselman said. I think insurance companies go overboard when it comes to needing things for patients. I think we, as physicians and providers, dont order things unless we feel theyre absolutely necessary. Unfortunately, many times we have to justify why we want them, and go to bat for the patients in order to get things done. Many times, it requires a phone call from us, as doctors, or letters from us, to the insurance company. It takes a lot of time. I spend an average of three to four hours a day on paperwork. Thats on top of seeing patients. For Hanselman, thats just part of the job. And shes very good at it. Shes part of the first line of defense in the Scheurer Healthcare Network, and she plans to be there, serving her patients, for years to come. UBLY As Ublys Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) teacher, Briana Deacons lays the groundwork for a childs educational and social development. This is the first school year the Ubly School District has offered the GSRP, basically because there was nowhere to house it. In April 2018, the district bought the former RE-Store Rustic Shabby Chic Furniture business along with the St. John Evangelical Catholic Church Hall at 4454 N. Washington St., and converted it into an early childhood learning center. The district had a Head Start Program last year, but this is the first year for GSRP. This is the first (structured) learning program for many of them, said Deacons, noting the program is for 3 and 4 year olds. Deacons, who is from Ubly, taught Head Start last year in the North Huron School District. That was her first teaching assignment. Ublys program is her second teaching position. We provide a full day of school. GSRP has a special curriculum that is taught. It teaches school readiness skills, she said. It focuses on social and emotional skills, and addresses the whole child. Math literacy, cognitive, physical, emotional, language skills, and self-regulation skills are taught. Deacons earned her teaching degree at Saginaw Valley State University. To teach the GSRP, she had to have an early childhood endorsement on her teaching certificate The first concept a child has to learn in the program is self-regulation skills. Learning and teaching self-regulation skills is a big challenge for students to learn and for Deacons to teach. They have to learn to sit and pay attention. Learn to listen with a purpose when they would rather go play. They work on being able to stay with a challenging task. They have to learn social skills, they have to learn to ask for a toy rather than just grabbing it when they want it. That is also a big one to teach, said Deacons. Because for most of the children, this is their first school experience outside of daycare. I would say over half of them dont have any experience with other children of their age group, so getting them to learn routines and rules is a big change. That is the biggest challenge as a GSRP teacher is getting them to learn routines. The GSRP prepares students to take the next step toward in their eduction. GSRP gives them the skills they are going to have to use, said Deacons. I enjoy teaching them the skills to get along with other kids, their letters, and counting. Those are the tools they will have to use for the rest of their lives. This prepares them for going into the Young 5s program or kindergarten. Research has shown children who have high quality preschool experiences are more prepared for kindergarten, perform at a higher level throughout school, are more likely to graduate high school, and have a greater chance of attending college. In Ublys GSRP, children are in the classroom from 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and Friday is a work day for Deacons. Both GSRP and Head Start are tuition-free preschool programs for those who qualify. ELKTON Dr. Shirley Jakubec has studied, practiced and trained internal medicine all over the world. Recently though, she decided to bring her talents and skills back into the country with her return to the Thumb. Last month, Jakubec joined forces with McLaren Thumb Region and is now seeing patients at the hospitals Primary Care Practice in Elkton. Originally from Canada, Jakubec attended the University of Waterloo in Ontario, and then furthered her education at St. Georges University School of Medicine in Grenada. From there, Jakubec completed training in the United Kingdom, New York and London, Ontario. My final training was in New Jersey for my American Board of Internal Medicine certificate, she said. Im American-trained. My first time working in Michigan was for Scheurer Hospital from 2004 to 2009, she added. While working in the Thumb a decade ago, an opportunity approached Jakubec that would eventually take her to the Middle East. At one point in my medical career, I wanted to practice outside of North America, she said. In 2010, Jakubec accepted a position with CURE International a nonprofit organization that focuses on providing medical care to children suffering primarily from orthopedic and neurological conditions. Jakubec served six years at the Oasis Hospital in the United Arab Emirates. Its a very historic hospital, she said. Although she was halfway across the world, the thought of home crossed her mind. I would make a trip to the Thumb every year when I had a break from overseas work, she said. I like the people here. It feels like where I grew up in southern Ontario. And recently, Jakubec made the decision to be closer to her loved ones. I took a step out of the country and Im stepping back into the country, she said with a laugh. I wanted to be back with my family its time to be closer to home, she said of her family in Canada. I own a home in Caseville so Ive always had a tie to the Thumb. Jakubec has been at her position in Elkton for about a month now, and shes looking forward to meeting new patients in the near future. Definitely the patient interaction is my favorite. If I could get rid of my computer, it would be the best, she added with a chuckle. Patient interaction is most to valuable to me to get to know my patients and who they are so I can better treat them. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Why didn't the Defense Department propose adding an upgraded F-16 Fighting Falcon into its inventory instead the F-15EX fourth-gen plus aircraft it is currently pursuing? To keep the industrial diversity, according to a senior defense official. In order to keep a "robust industrial base" and "to have multiple providers in the tactical aircraft portfolio," officials with the Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation office arrived at the Boeing Co-made F-15EX decision because the aircraft provided "a higher-capacity" combination alongside Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, a senior defense official told reporters at the Pentagon on Friday. An F-16 jet would mean another Lockheed fighter, and the DoD wants to maintain a balance between the two largest defense companies. (That said, the U.S. Navy is still buying F/A-18 Super Hornets, made by Boeing). "One of the considerations was the diversity of the industrial base," the senior defense official said. "Maintaining a diverse industrial base is in the best interest of the Department of Defense. The more diversity, the more competition ... and the better prices we have." Then-Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis directed the Pentagon to seek out a mix of stand-in versus stand-off tactical aircraft, the official said. The aircraft that would first penetrate defenses would be an F-35 Joint Strike Fighter -- a stand-in aircraft -- followed by a platform like the F-15EX -- a stand-off fighter -- which would team up to take out targets once the airspace becomes clear. Mattis, however, did not decide on the specific aircraft model, the official clarified. The official's comments come shortly after the Defense Department Inspector General launched an investigation into Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan over his past ties to Boeing, where he worked for 30 years. As deputy defense secretary, Shanahan joined other top leaders to promote the F-15X fourth-generation fighter proposal, Bloomberg said in December. The official on Friday stressed that Shanahan has not been involved in any discussions pertaining to the F-15EX future procurement. "This was CAPE bringing it to the forefront," the official said. Related content: As older fourth-gen models such as the F-15C/D Eagle continue to deteriorate, officials looked for a follow-on aircraft that offered affordability and capability. "We also simply need a certain quantity of platforms with which to deliver ordnance -- we can do those other missions with fourth-gen planes more affordably," the senior defense official said. The official said the Defense Department wasn't particularly interested in buying additional F-35s this year because of life cycle costs that include operations and sustainment. "Fifth-gen platforms are more expensive than fourth-gen platforms, so from a capacity standpoint, we can simply buy more capacity with a mix of planes that appropriately match the mission set," the official said. The F-35's total cost has been projected at more than $1 trillion over a 50-year service lifetime. An F-35 would also be too expensive for the homeland alert mission that the Air National Guard's F-15C/D fleet currently owns. The cost of the Air Force's F-35A has dropped to $89 million per aircraft, according to the Joint Program Office. The Pentagon's Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation office, known as CAPE, estimates the price per F-15EX jet would average about $90 million. In its fiscal 2020 request, the Air Force seeks to fund eight brand-new jets at a cost of $1.05 billion. Air Force officials on March 12 during the budget request rollout said that cost could rise from the original $80 million projected estimate when accounting for non-recurring engineering costs in the first year of procurement. The budget decisions speak to the "aviation road map" of the Air Force and thinking on just how many fighter aircraft the service needs to sustain the future fight into 2030 and beyond, the official said. The Pentagon wants to buy 144 F-15EX planes over the next decade. -- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @oriana0214. 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... If the Marine Corps is serious about getting ready to take on a near-peer enemy like China in the future, then it's time to fold its 13-year-old special operations command and apply those resources elsewhere. At least that's the argument one retired Marine officer made this week while presenting ways the service can better prepare for large-scale naval operations and it's causing quite a stir in the Marine Corps special operations community. Dakota Wood, who worked as a strategist at Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command from 2012-2013, released a 60-page report on Thursday titled "Rebuilding America's Military: The United States Marine Corps." It was published by the Heritage Foundation, a conservative Washington think tank where Wood serves as senior research fellow for defense programs. Facing relentless operational tempo and ongoing budget woes, the Marine Corps should reevaluate where it's spending resources, Wood writes. As part of that effort, he said service leaders should "strongly consider disestablishing [MARSOC]." "It's a great outfit and they're doing great things, so this is not to disparage MARSOC," Wood told Military.com. "It's stepping back and saying, 'OK, Marine Corps, what are you supposed to be doing? And how are you using the resources that you have?'" Wood's call to disband the command comes after the Marine Corps released its 2020 budget request, revealing plans to increase the number of MARSOC billets. But the 2,700 Marines already assigned to MARSOC do more to benefit U.S. Special Operations Command than they do the Marine Corps, Wood wrote. "The Corps' commitment to MARSOC, while a boon to SOCOM and the good work it does for the country, is an opportunity cost for the Corps and the work that only it can do, as opposed to SOCOM's role and the contributions long made to its mission by the Army, Navy and Air Force," he said. In a statement, MARSOC spokesman Maj. Nicholas Mannweiler said the command was aware of the Heritage report and its recommendations. "The recommendations made in the paper are one aspect of a much broader conversation on Marine Corps and joint operations in response to our evolving national security challenges," he said. "MARSOC will continue to partner with our fellow Marines in enhancing lethality, interoperability, integration and interdependence as well as with our rich network of [special operations forces] and interagency partners." For Marine Raiders who fought for a place within U.S. Special Operations Command over the past 13 years, Wood's suggestion falls flat. The original Raider battalions were disbanded toward the end of World War II, and it was a decades-long effort to bring them back. Having someone make a case for dispansion again undoes years of hard work on and off the battlefield, they say. MARSOC's critical skills operators were essential in Iraq and Afghanistan, for example, said Nick Koumalatsos, who spent 12 years with the command and in the Marine Corps reconnaissance community. Dissolving MARSOC now, he said, would be a huge blow. "This would set us back two decades, if not more," Koumalatsos said. "It's not the world we live in anymore. We're not lining up tanks and we're not lining up in trenches to fight a conventional battle." Elliot Ackerman, a Silver Star and Purple Heart recipient who deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan five times, agrees. "If there's a major theater war with China or Iran, it's not going to look like the Second World War," Ackerman said. "... "To say these 2,700 guys will be better suited in [any other] Marine regiment belies a lack of understanding of what Marine Raiders have contributed in the last 10 years." The Marine Corps also can't operate in a vacuum, where it doesn't have a connecting line to SOCOM, said Prime Hall, a former Raider and water-survival instructor. "This is much larger than the Marine Corps," Hall said. "This is about what is best for the Department of Defense and the country as a whole." Koumalatsos agreed. The entire military, he said, benefits from MARSOC's relationship with SOCOM and the other branches. "We can't just go over here and color with our own coloring books and not have any friends," he said. Wood said he isn't advocating for a stovepiped, parochial Marine Corps that is unwilling to work with the other services. If the Marine Corps is going to focus on its naval power as a top priority, which he argues it should, it's going to need the other services to push leathernecks from the sea to fight on land. "Up until 2006, the Marine Corps had pushed back against having an elite force and being a part of the special operations community because they were fully busy doing Navy-Marine [amphibious] sorts of things," Wood said. "It was only because they were forced to create a special operations service component by then-Secretary of Defense [Donald] Rumsfeld because SOCOM was extraordinarily short on teams." While they met the challenge, creating well-trained and professional special operators, the ongoing effort to equip MARSOC pulls resources away from the Marine Corps' main mission, which is going to need all the manpower and money possible if a big conflict breaks out in the Asia-Pacific region, he said. But even as the Marine Corps takes steps to get ready for that type of fight, Marine Commandant Gen. Robert Neller said last week that up to 90 percent of what his service does "will not be against a near-peer adversary." "It's going to be against someone else," he said. That's why removing the Marine Corps' highly trained, unconventional assets doesn't make any sense, Koumalatsos said. The next fight is likely to include technological threats, the internet and asymmetrical warfare. Why get rid of those who've trained for and operate in that space, he said. Raiders also benefit the Marine Corps by helping streamline the often slow acquisition of new technology and gear, Hall added. SOCOM also invests in a lot of the training and education for Raiders, Koumalatsos, so the Marine Corps isn't footing the command's whole bill. The Raider battalions also have an important place in the Marine Corps' legacy, and to see someone advocating to again remove them is disheartening, Ackerman said. "That we can finally say 'I'm with 2nd Marine Raider Battalion and here's who we are, here's our story,' I think is a really great, healthy thing not only for Marine Raiders but for every single Marine in the Corps," he said. "To want to undermine that because of some resourcing argument is to me just backward and retrograde." -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins. The Department of Defense has released the identities of two soldiers killed in combat in northern Afghanistan Friday. Specialist Joseph P. Collette, 29, of Lancaster, Ohio and Sgt. 1st Class Will D. Lindsay, 33, of Cortez, Colorado, were killed in Kunduz province "as a result of wounds sustained while engaged in combat operations," officials said in a statement. No other details about the incident were released, but officials said it is under investigation. Collette was a member of 242nd Ordnance Battalion, 71st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group, out of Fort Carson, Colorado, officials said. According to a Fort Carson release, he was an EOD specialist who entered the Army November 8, 2010 and arrived at Fort Carson June 28, 2012. He deployed to Afghanistan in December, and had been awarded the Purple Heart on the deployment, according to released information. His other awards include four Army Achievement Medals and the Excellence in Competition Rifleman Badge. "The 71st Ordnance Group (EOD) is deeply saddened by the loss of Spc. Joseph P. Collette. We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his Family and friends," Col. David K. Green, commander of 71st Ordnance Group (EOD), said in a statement. Lindsay was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), also out of Fort Carson. He enlisted on July 7, 2004 and was assigned to his current unit in July 2006, officials with U.S. Special Operations Command said in a statement. He had previously deployed five times to Iraq and once to Tajikistan in support of a counter-narcotics mission. His awards include five Bronze Star Medals and the Purple Heart, along with the Military Free Fall Jumpmaster Badge and Master Parachutist Badge. He is survived by a wife and four daughters, officials said. "The 10th SFG (A) Family is deeply saddened at the loss of Sgt. 1st Class Will Lindsay," Col. Lawrence Ferguson, 10th SFG (A) commander, said in a statement. "Will was one of the best in our formation, with more than a decade of service in the Regiment at all levels of noncommissioned officer leadership. We will focus now on supporting his family and honoring his legacy and sacrifice." Collette and Lindsey are the third and fourth soldiers killed in hostile actions in Afghanistan this year, the 18th year since the war began and more than four years after combat operations under Operation Enduring Freedom formally came to an end. -- Hope Hodge Seck can be reached at hope.seck@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HopeSeck. Prevent others to register the name of your Inc. as inc-Domain Instant credibility Build on your brand?s reputation with the domain ending that means business. Get the inc-Domain for your Inc. the definitive domain ending for businesses everywhere, whether your business is incorporated or not. Priced for businesses, not speculators All Inc-Domains are one at premium price to help prevent cybersquatting and help ensure that your domain name is available when you need it. 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ICANN-Registrar Secura GmbH Frohnhofweg 18 D-50858 Koeln Germany Phone: +49 221 2571213 Fax: +49 221 9252272 secura@domainregistry.de http://www.domainregistry.de http://www.com-domains.com Per Chris Cotillo of Masslive.com, the Cubs have released reliever Junichi Tazawa. Tazawa had a strong spring for Chicago, striking out nine in just 5 2/3 IP while not allowing a run. The 32-year-old was fighting for the last spot in the Cubs pen, but was on the heels of back-to-back dreadful campaigns in 2017 and 18. Tazawa was excellent in a four-year stretch for the Red Sox from 2012-15, distancing himself from walks and homers while keeping hitters at bay with his trademark splitter. A velocity drop in 2016 spelled doom, though, as the righty soon found himself frequent prey for power hitters across both leagues. A two-year, $12MM deal with Miami prior to the 2017 season was a disaster the Marlins dumped the righty in mid-May after he allowed six homers in just twenty low-leverage innings. The excellent spring numbers, if perhaps indicative of a return to form, should help the veteran righty latch on somewhere. Its a bit of a surprise he couldnt crack the in-flux Cubs pen, though perhaps the velocity and secondary stuff simply continue to languish. ANN ARBOR, MI - James Mr. Largebeat Gertz returned to his home planet last month. That's how Robin Grant, who operates his Facebook page, put it following his death Feb. 6 during treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. He was 66. Gertz was other-worldly in a few ways. Though he may not have been known to all, he was recognizable from his work at the Arbor Brewing Company, where hes been employed since its founding. If not that, Ann Arborites may recall him for his role in the local music scene, where he introduced the spooky sounds of the theremin and took part in numerous bands for decades. They might know him still for his unique sense of style, which sometimes involved Beatle boots, a long coat and a dapper hat as he rode an orange scooter down city streets. Then there was his love of UFOs, stemming from his youth in Oregon, where he reported first seeing one. But of all his features, perhaps the most fantastical were his creativity and kindness. The overwhelming response from people who knew Gertz tells it best, Grant said. He taught the message, "Just be yourself," she said. "Looking at some of the posts of their Facebook feed, he apparently was really great about making people feel comfortable right away," she said. That was the case for Ann Arbor Brewing bartender Don Carpenter, who met Gertz when he joined the brewpub nine years ago. Laughing slightly, he recalled connecting with Gertz early on when a song by The Alan Parsons Project played in the business. "I just mentioned to him that I liked it and the next day he showed up to work with five different vinyls of Alan Parson Project for me to take home, and not to borrow," Carpenter said. It started a tradition of trading records, though Carpenter said he always came up short in comparison to Gertz. At the brewing company, they joked that Largebeat came with the building. In truth, he came from San Diego in the 1970s by way of his love for music, said friend and fellow musician Billy Barr. Hed visited his friend in the area for a concert before. He earned the nickname Mr. Largebeat - a play off another drummers name in the 80s - in his early days in the music scene in Ann Arbor. Eventually, he had it legally changed, Barr said. Though some friends said he may have had learning struggles elsewhere, they noted he was a deeply talented musician of various instruments and had an exceptionally creative mind. Barr recalled a time in the 80s when Gertz introduced a short-circuited record player that, when it was hooked up to an amplifier and had its tone meddled with, emitted shrieks from science fiction movies. "He was trying to get it to play records and it was making these God-awful noises and he said, 'I should use that in the band,'" he said. And he knew how to bring people together on and off the stage, said longtime friend and Ann Arbor resident Keith LaSalle. He was a creative showman and he got a lot of people started, LaSalle said. ... A number of musicians got going with him. His music was described by Grant as "cosmic space rock," and Gertz frequently wrote songs about the extraterrestrial. In fact, he wrote all his own songs, said longtime friend Judy Foy, who is married to LaSalle. One song, Greetings from Out There, seems to have duplicate meaning these days, as if a greeting from wherever he is now, she said. Though there can be no comparison, Foy recognized the loss of someone many knew, even if only in passing, as perhaps similar to that of Ann Arbor street legend Shakey Jake. "There is something different the very next day when someone who has brought a different perspective into the community (is gone)," she said. "When the perspective is gone, it isn't like everything becomes bland, but it's one thing thats missing and it's like one little piece of the prism that isn't there anymore." Wherever he is, on this planet, loved ones and acquaintances alike will raise a glass 7 p.m. Sunday, March 24 at Arbor Brewing Company to a man who loomed large both in name and community stature. Proceeds from the last batch of Largebeat Wheat beer, previously developed for fundraising when he initially got sick, will help fly his daughter back to celebrate his life, according to a Facebook page for the event. The remaining proceeds will be donated to the fight against cancer. FLINT, MI-- The Daughters of the American Revolution will mark the grave of a Revolutionary War solider on May 11. The ceremonial grave marking will take place at 11 a.m. in Glenwood Cemetery, located at 2500 W. Court St. in Flint. Genesee Countys Daughters of the American Revolution will be hosting the event. The Sons of the American Revolution will also participate. The public is invited to attend the dedication and a small reception will follow, Genesee DAR secretary Mary Jane Bunker said. Our members will be attending, Sons of the American Revolution will also be participating. They fire off cannons, have a presentation of the colors and a sword salute, Bunker said. There will be music, a regular ceremony... presentation of the the colors, Pledge of Allegiance... a biography of Charles Stewart and a poem will be read. Stewart was born in July 1763 in Colrain, Massachusetts and died in Genesee County in 1837. He enlisted in the Revolutionary War on August 12, 1781 and was discharged three months later on November 8. Marking graves of Revolutionary War soldiers isnt very common, Bunker said. Stewarts grave was originally marked in 1926. Someone either stole the marker or something happened to it where it needs to be redone, Bunker said. Bunker joined the DARs Genesee Chapter in 2016 after researching her familys lineage. I was very interested in genealogy and I saw that I had a direct descendant who did contribute to the Revolutionary War, Bunker said. To be able to join, potential members have to be able to prove their direct lineage to someone who either served in or contributed to the Revolutionary War, Bunker said. My particular relative was John George, he was not a solider but he contributed horses and meat to the cause in Virginia, Bunker said. More than 930,000 members have been admitted into the DAR since its founding in 1980. The group was created by women after they were denied entry into the Sons of the American Revolution. The DARs Genesee Chapter was founded on June 3, 1897 with 18 organizing members. The chapter currently has 102 members. Due to a rare solar flare, the Northern Lights are making a rare appearance for some Americans and Canadians. Typically, people travel from all over the world to see the Aurora Borealis in areas like Iceland and Norway, forever chasing these ephemeral green lights. Others would rather look down than up and chase beauties like the Sea of Stars in the Maldives, where bioluminescent plankton to emit a sparkling, electric blue light. Which phenomenon would you travel to see? The Northern Lights occur when gaseous particles in the Earths atmosphere collide with charged particles released from the suns atmosphere. Meaning, the beautiful green and pink skyward waves are a result of electrically-charged particles from the sun entering the Earths atmosphere, which is why a solar flare resulted in a late-March aurora borealis over parts of Canada and the U.S. According to the Northern Lights Centre: The lights appear in many forms from patches or scattered clouds of light to streamers, arcs, rippling curtains or shooting rays that light up the sky with an eerie glow. Its no surprise that the Northern Lights helped contribute to a 27.5 percent increase in Icelands tourism industry in 2016. The Sea of Stars, on the other hand, is a gorgeous natural phenomenon in the Maldives. Living in the waters of Vaadhoo Island are plankton with quite a unique ability: they generate light when put under stress. This stress can be caused by things as simple as the waves of the sea, resulting in incredible undulations of twinkling, electric-blue lights. According to the Culture Trip: The speculator phenomena is one of natures rarest events. The world has bioluminescence to thank when looking upon the Sea of Stars. Those who are lucky enough to witness it experience a real-life fantasy. The Tylt is focused on debates and conversations around news, current events and pop culture. We provide our community with the opportunity to share their opinions and vote on topics that matter most to them. We actively engage the community and present meaningful data on the debates and conversations as they progress. The Tylt is a place where your opinion counts, literally. The Tylt is an Advance Local Media, LLC property. Join us on Twitter @TheTylt, on Instagram @TheTylt or on Facebook, wed love to hear what you have to say. Cruise ship breaks down off Norway, rescue op underway Cruise ship breaks down off Norway, rescue op underway The cruise ship Viking Sky, which lost engine power and drifted towards land off Norway earlier on Saturday managed to start one of its engines and is now anchored 2km off the shore, Norwegian police say. While initial reports indicated the ship had 1,300 passengers aboard, the ship operators website lists its capacity at 930, thus the figure appears to include the vessels crew. Several helicopters and sea vessels have been dispatched to the location to evacuate people from the stalled ship. The passengers were hoisted up one by one from the deck and airlifted to land, according to the rescue service, which said it will take a long time to evacuate everyone, if the need arises. About 100 people were evacuated by 15:30 GMT, according to police.Source : RT - Daily news Italy became the first G7 nation to sign up for Beijings multibillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative. The deal was struck amid warnings from Romes EU partners against negotiating with China alone. The memorandum of understanding was signed during Chinese leaders Xi Jinping three-day trip to Rome. The nations also struck additional deals, including in the steel and energy sectors. Endorsing Beijings massive infrastructure project, Italy hopes to boost its economy by gaining access to the Chinese market. Former Italian Prime Minister Franco Frattini earlier told RT that Beijings Belt and Road Initiative holds very high significance for Rome, and partnership with China is aimed to maximize European interests. Also on rt.com Italy joining Chinas Silk Road shows EU maximizes its own interests over US wishes former FM His remarks were later echoed by President Sergio Mattarella who said that the new Silk Road linking Europe to China should be used not only for the exchange of goods but long-term solutions to common problems and future projects. Beijing, meanwhile, is making efforts to bolster trade with EU countries as it faces a standoff over tariffs with the US. We want to revitalize the ancient Silk Road in order to better share the fruits of humanitys progress, Xi Jinping told reporters on Saturday, referring to his countrys ambitious plan to build land and sea transport routes to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The full details of the contracts were not disclosed but reports suggest they can be worth up to 20 billion (US$22.6 billion). Chinese media wrote that the port cities of Genoa, Trieste, Ravenna, and Palermo may be included in Romes plan to attract Chinese shipping and investment. Italys willingness to foster ties with China became a source for concerns among some partners in the EU, who see Beijing as a powerful rival. The time of European naivete and an uncoordinated approach towards Chinese influence is over, French President Emmanuel Macron warned on Friday, adding that Beijing took advantage of our divisions. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte noted that certain deals with China can present a problem for Europe. German Chancellor Angela Merkel stressed that everyone must remember that the EU and China are not just partners, but also competitors, saying it would be better if the member states negotiated with Beijing as single bloc. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! At least 134 people have been killed in an apparent ethnically-motivated attack on a village in southern Mali. Another village was also attacked, according to local officials, and the body count is expected to grow even further. The village of Ogossagou, inhabited by Fulani herders, was attacked by a group of gunmen early in the morning. The attackers sported the outfits of another tribe, the Donzo hunters, according to the mayor of the nearby town of Bankass, Moulaye Guindo. The attack left at least 134 people dead and the village was completely "devastated," the official added. The death toll is not final, as local law enforcement officers continue to examine the scene of the brutal attack. "We are provisionally at 134 bodies recovered by the gendarmes," Guindo told Reuters. Another nearby Fulani village, Welingara, also came under attack, leading to an as-yet-unspecified number of deaths, the official said. The attack appears to be one of the deadliest the country has seen, despite experiencing years of ethnic and religious violence. France intervened in the affairs of Mali its former colony in 2013, in an attempt to push back jihadist groups who at the time were rampant in the country's north. The militants, however, have since established themselves in central Mali and neighboring countries. All in all, France has some 4,500 troops deployed to the Sahel region, the majority of them stationed in Mali. Also on rt.com Macrons concern over Chinas presence in Africa is about keeping riches in the West Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Media and politicians whove spent about two years anticipating Robert Muellers probe and to kick Donald Trump out of the White House, seem to have survived the first shock of its mundane end, but believe their fight is not over. The Special Counsel sent his report to the US Attorney General on Friday. Although the results are still not known to the public, its been leaked that it contains now new indictment. The news seemed to have sent mainstream media and pundits into disarray, and even drove some to tears. Also on rt.com US media suffers panic attack after Mueller fails to deliver on much-anticipated Trump indictment However, by Saturday they all seemed ready for a new fight, brandishing statements and casting headlines that it is not over. CNN has published a lengthy piece in the wake of the probes conclusion, which revolves around one simple idea: Trumps ordeal is far from over. If there is not legal liability for the President or his family in the Mueller report, it could still inflict significant political damage, it said, all the while assuming that Mueller might have just failed to put paid to the tradition that a sitting President cant be indicted. Also on rt.com Crying for indictments? Maddow holds backs tears as she discusses end of Mueller probe (VIDEO) CNN also rushed to say that, regardless of its content, Muellers report would fail to exonerate Russia from meddling accusations, just as it was unlikely to stop a barrage of accusations against Trump. Whatever Muellers report says, the question of Russias assault on the last presidential election will stain the next one in 20 months, the piece predicts. The New York Times, meanwhile, cheered up Trumps critics by saying that, even though it was over, the Mueller probe has given rise to a dozen other investigations that would definitely ensure a legal threat would continue to loom over the Trump presidency. This idea was shared by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), who also said that there are obviously other investigations that have been spawned and spun off by the facts in evidence that Robert Mueller has found. I think there is a high likelihood that there are indictments in this presidents future, he added. Across the pond, Britains The Guardian meticulously recycled all past speculations about the secret meetings of Trumps inner circle members and alleged Kremlin agents, as well as security communication channels supposedly established at the Russian embassy at the behest of the Trump administration, while also pondering how the probe might have come to end with nothing. Also on rt.com No new indictments!? Mueller concludes Russiagate probe, Dems demand underlying evidence The paper then suggested that Mueller might have simply referred all future criminal cases to other prosecutors. It is also still possible his report will be damning, establishing collusion or obstruction of justice in the court of public opinion if not a court of law, fueling demands for Trumps impeachment and mortally wounding his chances of re-election, the Guardian wrote. Some ardent Trump critics apparently found an easier way to deal with this situation. Comedian Bill Maher simply said that the results of the probe change nothing and he still considers Trump to be a traitor simply because he has a TV. Maher also assumed that the Democrats might be putting too much trust in the report, which does not look good for his liking. The fresh assault by the Trump-bashers has sparked a backlash from some of the presidents supporters. The American people know what a politically-motivated smear campaign looks like, and thats exactly what this is, a GOP chairwoman, Ronna McDaniel, wrote in a Twitter post. Some of them, however, preferred to attack the probe itself. Former Trump adviser Sebastian Gorka even compared Mueller to convicted Boston gangster Whitey Bulger once the second listed fugitive on the FBIs Most Wanted list. Rod Rosenstein and Barack Obama cronies just spent $30 Million of your money to put Manafort in prison for mortgage fraud. Congrats Bob Whitey Bulger Mueller and the rest of the demented and un-America Collusion Truthers, he wrote in Instagram. Fox News, meanwhile, went even further and questioned the whole Mueller probe, as well as the entirety of the final report, by saying that the whole investigation process was flawed from the beginning and the report should be flat-out rejected, regardless of its content. If you like this story, share it with a friend! Russian Su-27 fighters have been scrambled to shadow US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress nuclear-capable strategic bombers over the Baltic Sea twice in the last 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said. The bombers were detected by the Russian Airspace Control Means (ACM) while they were still far away from Russian territory, the ministry said in a statement, adding that the fighter jets were deployed to prevent the aircraft from approaching the border as they were flying towards Russian territory. Also on rt.com WATCH Su-27 fighter jets shadow US NUCLEAR-CAPABLE B-52H bomber near Russian border The Russian military also said that US strategic aviation has stepped up activities near Russian territory in the Baltics. The strategic aircraft have flown over the Baltic Sea seven times in just over a week, the ministrys statement said. Earlier, the ministry released a video of one such encounter, showing Russian Su-27 jets shadowing a US B-52H bomber. It was filmed from inside the cockpit of a Russian fighter. A US strategic bomber was spotted near the Russian border on March 18. At that time, the aircraft allegedly simulated a bombing raid on one of the Russian Baltic Fleet bases and flew less than 200 kilometers from St. Petersburg, according to RIA Novosti. A similar incident took place on March 20. Moscow has expressed regret over Washingtons actions. These flights do not contribute to the strengthening of an atmosphere of peace and security near the Russian border, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. The nuclear-capable Stratofortress was deployed to Europe for the latest string of US training exercises with its NATO allies. The European deployment is the largest for US strategic aviation since 2003, when the allies on the continent were involved in the US-led invasion of Iraq. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Beijing has warned the US against selling F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan, urging Washington to respect its sovereignty when it comes to the One China policy, to avoid seriously damaging bilateral relations. China resolutely opposes US arms sales to Taiwan, and this position remains consistent and firm, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters on Friday, after Bloomberg reported that Donald Trump was contemplating selling more than 60 F-16 units to Taipei. Stressing that arms sales to the island will seriously damage the Sino-American ties, Beijing urged the US to stop arms sales to and military contact with Taiwan. Also on rt.com China war drills: US commandos capture Japanese island to show Beijing theyre not kidding around Taiwan has become one of the most sensitive issues fueling the US-China spat since US President Donald Trump signaled his support of Taiwans president and deepened ties with the island via the Taiwan Travel Act legislation, passed last year. Whether or not Trump will follow the friendly advice of the Asian giant this time remains to be seen. Bloomberg argues that Trump could potentially use F-16 sales as a bargaining chip in the ongoing trade negotiations. For now, the US administration has allegedly given a tacit approval to Taiwans request to buy American jets, people familiar with the matter have told Bloomberg, noting that, for the sale to materialize, a formal proposal has to be issued by the State Department and the Pentagon first, before going to Congress for approval. Also on rt.com Chinese & Taiwanese militaries exchange saber-rattling VIDEOS on Lunar New Year Like this story? Share it with a friend! After downplaying the health and environmental hazards of the massive Deer Park chemical tank fire for nearly a week, the Texas government has sued the facilitys operator for air pollution and ecological damage. Locals living in the greater Houston area were advised to shelter in place for days, as emergency crews tried to contain the Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) tank blaze, which erupted in Deer Park last Sunday and lasted all the way through Thursday before reigniting again on Friday afternoon. While residents anxiously waited for authorities to take care of the hazardous fumes, local health and emergency officials kept on reassuring the public that the emergency did not pose any danger to their health or to the environment, even though the blaze destroyed at least 11 above-ground fuel storage tanks. There continues to be a low health risk for the general public, Harris County Public Health continued to insist on Friday, as black clouds of fume from the reignited fire covered large parts of Harris County. Rejecting public concerns that the ITC fire resulted in leaks of benzene, authorities continue to insist that the local water system has not been contaminated. The tests revealed no evidence of benzene in the water, Nicholas Cook, Surface Water Treatment Plant Supervisor, told local news, noting that levels of cancer-causing trihalomethanes showed readings within an acceptable range. Following a massive outcry from the local community over ITC's questionable environmental practices and their inability to properly manage the fuel storage facility, the government of Texas has decided on Friday to sue the company for environmental damages. The state of Texas ..will hold ITC accountable for the damage it has done to our environment, Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a statement. ITC has a history of environmental violations, and this latest incident is especially disturbing and frightening. Also on rt.com Tank with carcinogenic chemical goes up in flames in Texas, residents urged to shut vents (VIDEO) Finally, the Texas government is acting with real force to hold a polluter accountable rather than slapping it on the wrist or looking away entirely, said Environment Texas Director Luke Metzger, as Gov. Greg Abbott vowed to punish the polluters. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Controversial academic Jordan Peterson told RTs Afshin Rattansi that the lefts obsession with equality of outcome is doomed to failure, advocating instead for individuals to assume greater personal responsibility. It seems to be very difficult for people on the left to draw a line between whats acceptable and whats unacceptable, Peterson told the host of RTs Going Underground when asked to comment on the rise in popularity of socialism-friendly politicians such as Bernie Sanders and Jeremy Corbyn. While acknowledging that the moderate left has ushered in labor laws and other reforms which have benefited society, the Canadian professor argued that the emphasis on diversity, inclusivity and equity is a sign that the left has gone far too far. Also on rt.com Philoso-fight! Slavoj Zizek to debate Jordan Peterson in the most anticipated bout of 2019 Calls for equality of outcome, as opposed to equality of opportunity, particularly worry Peterson, who has become a pariah among liberals after he spoke out against gender-neutral pronoun legislation being proposed in Canada an intellectual rebellion which launched him into the limelight. I think that any attempt to pursue equality of outcome is doomed to a totalitarian tilt, because its technically impossible to equalize outcomes across all possible identity groups, he said. Peterson, however, insisted he has no illusions about the hardships of life which may make socialism so appealing to so many. But he suggested a different path. My contention is the best bet that you have in this veil of catastrophe and tears is to take responsibility for your own life and speak truthfully and act courageously, he told Rattansi. Watch the full interview. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau used the term feminist as a weapon to win elections, so it is no surprise that his own record on women is under scrutiny during the ongoing political corruption scandal, RT was told. Justin Trudeaus choice to make womens rights a priority of his campaign was more about winning elections than anything else, right-wing journalist and commentator Lauren Southern told RT. Theyve used the term feminist to prop up their party so much that Conservatives are almost forced to bring this up in the conversation. The Trudeau-led Liberal Party made defending women an important political debate, which, in turn, attracts extra scrutiny to their own actions, Southern said. If youre going to use that as a weapon well then be prepared for that to be used as a weapon against you. The PM was forced to defend his record this week when opposition female lawmakers denounced him as a fake feminist and accused Trudeau of silencing former Attorney General Jody Wilson-Raybould. Also on rt.com Fake feminist! WATCH female MP blast Trudeau in Parliament for silencing strong women Wilson-Raybould earlier testified that government officials pressured her to drop a probe into a high-profile corruption scandal involving a Canadian construction giant that allegedly used bribes to acquire lucrative contracts in Libya. The opposition wanted to summon the former attorney general for further hearings but their attempts were blocked by the Liberals. Trudeau has denied the allegations and vowed that his government will continue to fight for gender equality and womens rights. Donald Trumps cybersecurity adviser traveled to Germany to press the case for ostracizing Huawei, according to reports, in yet another arm-twisting attempt by Washington to keep the Chinese tech firm out of Europe. The White House sent Joshua Steinman to Berlin to consult with German officials tasked with protecting the countrys network infrastructure, Bloomberg reported, adding that Steinman was apparently satisfied by the security measures proposed by his counterparts to safeguard Germanys future fifth-generation (5G) wireless network. However, the US official still pressured Berlin to take extra precautions with telecommunications giant Huawei. Also on rt.com Merkel on Huawei: Germany wont exclude 5G providers just because they come from China Steinmans visit comes after US Ambassador Richard Grenell sent a letter to German Economy Minister Peter Altmaier, warning that Washington could downgrade intelligence-sharing between the two nations if its security concerns regarding Huawei were not taken into account. Germany has pushed back against these open-faced threats, noting that the US has yet to produce evidence that Chinese products would pose a threat to national security. Altmaier responded by saying that Berlin is ready to stand up against the US pressure, while former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder denounced Washingtons actions as blatant extortion. German Chancellor Angela Merkel reiterated last week that Germany would not exclude Huawei or any other company from helping to develop 5G in Germany simply because they come from China. Also on rt.com Germany wont ban Huawei & ready to oppose US pressure economy minister Steinman met earlier in March with Swiss wireless companies to discuss the alleged dangers posed by Huawei. The Chinese company is currently working with local firms to develop Switzerlands 5G network. Washington has spared no efforts in attempts to persuade its allies, particularly in Europe, to shut Huawei out of tenders for fast fifth-generation telecom networks. The US repeatedly argued that the Chinese tech giants products could be used as a spying tool due to its close ties to Beijing. The warnings from Washington come as the US is locked in a bitter trade dispute with China, which has yet to be resolved. At the same time, Washington seeks to extradite Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou from Canada, to prosecute her for violation of its sanctions against Iran. Also on rt.com Blatant extortion: German ex-chancellor lashes out at US threat to withhold intel over China Huawei repeatedly denied the allegations, accusing the US of failing to produce any evidence of the companys supposed wrongdoings. The Chinese authorities accused the US of unfair competition and an attempt to sideline Chinese companies in its own push for dominance on the global communications market. If you like this story, share it with a friend! Important pundits and news networks have served up an impressive display of denials, evasions and on-air strokes after learning that Robert Mueller has ended his probe without issuing a single collusion-related indictment. The Special Counsel delivered his final report to Attorney General William Barr for review on Friday, with the Justice Department confirming that there will be no further indictments related to the probe. The news dealt a devastating blow to the sensational prophesies of journalists, analysts and entire news networks, who for nearly two years reported ad nauseam that President Donald Trump and his inner circle were just days away from being carted off to prison for conspiring with the Kremlin to interfere in the 2016 presidential election. Showing true integrity, journalists and television anchors took to Twitter and the airwaves on Friday night to acknowledge that the media severely misreported Donald Trump's alleged ties to Russia, as well as what Mueller's probe was likely to find. They are, after all, true professionals. Also on rt.com No new indictments!? Mueller concludes Russiagate probe, Dems demand underlying evidence "How could they let Trump off the hook?" an inconsolable Chris Matthews asked NBC reporter Ken Dilanian during a segment on CNN's 'Hardball'. Dilanian tried to comfort the CNN host with some of his signature NBC punditry. "My only conclusion is that the president transmitted to Mueller that he would take the Fifth. He would never talk to him and therefore, Mueller decided it wasn't worth the subpoena fight," he expertly mused. Actually, there were several Serious Journalists who used their unsurpassed analytical abilities to conjure up a reason why Mueller didn't throw the book at Trump, even though the president is clearly a Putin puppet. "It's certainly possible that Trump may emerge from this better than many anticipated. However! Consensus has been that Mueller would follow DOJ rules and not indict a sitting president. I.e. it's also possible his report could be very bad for Trump, despite 'no more indictments,'" concluded Mark Follman, national affairs editor at Mother Jones, who presumably, and very sadly, was not being facetious. Revered news organs were quick to artfully modify their expectations regarding Mueller's findings. "What is collusion and why is Robert Mueller unlikely to mention it in his report on Trump and Russia?" a Newsweek headline asked following Friday's tragic announcement. Three months earlier, Newsweek had meticulously documented all the terrible "collusion" committed by Donald Trump and his inner circle. But perhaps the most sobering reactions to the no-indictment news came from those who seemed completely unfazed by the fact that Mueller's investigation, aimed at uncovering a criminal conspiracy between Trump and the Kremlin, ended without digging up a single case of "collusion." The denials, evasions and bizarre hot takes are made even more poignant by the fact that just days ago, there was still serious talk about Trump's entire family being hauled off to prison. "You can't blame MSNBC viewers for being confused. They largely kept dissenters from their Trump/Russia spy tale off the air for 2 years. As recently as 2 weeks ago, they had @JohnBrennan strongly suggesting Mueller would indict Trump family members on collusion as his last act," journalist Glenn Greenwald tweeted. While the Mueller report has yet to be released to the public, the lack of indictments makes it clear that whatever was found, nothing came close to the vast criminal conspiracy alleged by virtually the entire American media establishment. "You have been lied to for 2 years by the MSM. No Russian collusion by Trump or anyone else. Who lied? Head of the CIA, NSA,FBI,DOJ, every pundit every anchor. All lies," wrote conservative activist Chuck Woolery. Internet mogul Kim Dotcom was more blunt, but said it all: "Mueller The name that ended all mainstream media credibility." Like this story? Share it with a friend! Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 23) The country's tourism secretary lauded women Saturday, celebrating their determination to rise above hardships to succeed in their chosen fields. Berna Romulo-Puyat was a keynote speaker at Taking Charge, CNN Philippines' second women's summit in Taguig Sunday. "I am grateful to have this opportunity to be in the company of passionate and dedicated women ... that question and challenge the status quo of what it means to be a woman today," she said. Romulo-Puyat added hard work, courage and determination allow women to rise above in their careers and represent women in nation-building. She highlighted the country is home to determined, intelligent women -- something that is proven as the Philippines has consistently placed high in the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Global Gender Gap report, which ranked countries according to how gender-neutral they are. The WEF report ranked the Philippines as the most gender-equal country in Asia in 2018, Romulo-Puyat said. "A gender-equal country is a strong country, and I really believe that," she said. Another study by the World Bank, she said, named the Philippines among the most conducive working enviroments in the world for women. Romulo-Puyat clarified misconceptions about how she achieved success. "My story is quite simple. I did my best and put in the work. Some think that things came easy for me, but on the contrary, I had to work double or three times as hard for people to believe in me and for them to be moved enough with my plans and visions to invest their time and resources," she said. The tourism secretary said when she came to be an undersecretary at the Department of Agriculture, she was worried that women farmers would not be able to relate to her because of how she looked. But after explaining her goals and vision, and telling her personal story of being a widow and a mother, she found other women opening up to her -- seeing her as one of them, a parent who wanted the best for her children. "That's the power of our gender -- to exhibit empathy and compassion, which makes it easier to lift each other up," Romulo-Puyat said. "May you find your purpose and that your work be able to lift the next generation of women in ways many of us can only ever imagine. There's no effort great or small. Each action is a step that takes us forward," she added. Apple CEO Tim Cook says he's "extremely bullish" about the global economy based on the amount of innovation being carried out, and he's urging China to continue to "open up." In a speech at an economic forum in Beijing on March 23, Cook said Apple is less concerned with the short term economic outlook because the tech giant makes investments looking ahead years or decades. His remarks come as China and the US prepare to meet again to resolve their trade dispute, which has roiled global markets, and as Apple is expected to announce that it's launching a video service. The iPhone has long been Apple's marquee product and main money maker, but sales are starting to decline. The company is pushing digital subscriptions as it searches for new growth. From describing the company as a Tree to describing L&T as people who have arrived with bulldozers and saw chains so that they can build a shopping mall in its place; and from pyaar and dil to MeToo, the Mindtree-L&T tug of war sure saw a dramatic war of words. These are not the sort of analogies you will often see in a merger and acquisition in the corporate world. However, it was a rare hostile takeover in Indias IT industry. It is hard to dismiss the drama that unfolded last week when the construction major L&T took over Mindtree. It had all the elements required for a drama high on emotion, a lot of anger and the longing for a white knight to save the victims from the bad guys. Only here, the bad guys are L&T, and the victims are Mindtree promoters, the object of Indias first hostile takeover in the IT services industry. The white knight that the latters promoters are looking for is the investors, who can help them retain the control. Though the whole saga is nowhere near its end, after a week many have raised one question Is there any need for this drama anymore? Sure, it was a rare hostile takeover but is the unnecessary drama helping anyones cause, many ask as one scrolls down the Twitter feeds. Mindtree was a company founded and nurtured by the ten founders from modest backgrounds with care and affection. It is commendable how the promoters have been able to imbibe in the values of the company in Mindtree minds, as the employees are called. Financially too, though Mindtree missed its $1 billion mark twice since 2012, it had performed consistently well since it was listed in 2007. The company is likely to reach its $1 billion this fiscal. It is also one of the few companies to focus on digital early, and revenues from digital now account for close to 50 percent of its revenues. All this has made Mindtree an attractive investment. L&T first approached Mindtree a few years ago for acquisition and in the founder's words, "They rejected it. When the chance to pick up the majority stake in the company came in the form of VG Siddharthas 20.32 percent stake three months ago, L&T grabbed the opportunity. After 20 years in the company, you cant blame Siddhartha for wanting an exit and furthering his coffee business, which is in a debt of Rs 3000 crore. If anything, Siddhartha made his intentions clear when he stepped down from the board in March 2018. He also made it public that he has been looking for investors to sell his stake in December last year. Why did the Mindtree promoters not take the developments seriously? Rostow Ravanan, co-founder and CEO, in a recent press conference, said that it is not the companys responsibility but the stakeholder's (who is selling) to look for a suitable investor. In our exit clause, we have clearly mentioned that the stakeholder should not sell his stakes to the competitor and L&T is a competitor, Ravanan explained. Though the exit clause has expired and Siddhartha did not violate any laws, the founders are clearly miffed that he sold his stake to L&T. At this point, many ask, not surprisingly, why did founders not take any action sooner? Saying that it came as a surprise only after the deal was signed, does not cut it. With just 13 percent stake in the company, they do not have the majority. Unlike Siddhartha, who did not interfere with the company decisions, most majority stakeholders would want a say in company decisions be it Baring PE or KKR & Co. This was probably why none of the conversions with investors turned positive. However, now not many options are left. While the largest stakeholders, such as Nalanda, are backing the founders, it is clearly not enough. As push comes to a shove, founders should not let their emotion guide them. This might be their child, but they need to think objectively about the betterment of their child. Even if it means, moving on, with dignity. India's former foreign secretary S Jaishankar has said China has to think what signal it is sending to the world by putting a technical hold in the UN on a proposal to list Pakistan-based terror group JeM's chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. China last week blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at the UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar as a global terrorist. The proposal 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. Jaishankar, president of Global Corporate Affairs at Tata Group and India's former ambassador to China and the US, said: "this is an issue that the Chinese have to think through for themselves, you know, what is the signal they are sending". The statement of Jaishankar, also India's former foreign secretary, came during a session at Asia Society here this week while responding to a question on China again blocking the proposal to ban Azhar. Jaishankar was participating in a discussion 'New Roadmaps for Asia' focusing on the Free and Open Indo-Pacific and the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue at the city-based cultural organisation along with Japan's former Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs and member of the board at Mitsubishi Corporation Akitaka Saiki. Asked how India views China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, Jaishankar said India's position on the project has been made very clear. "We have an overall position on connectivity, which is autonomous of the Belt and Road. It would apply to a Japanese initiative or an American initiative," he said. India has some specific concerns about the Chinese initiative, he said. "The first issue for us is that any connectivity initiative should be respectful of sovereignty. The reason I stress is that one of the corridors, the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, passes through the state of Jammu and Kashmir. And that is the land which is illegally held by Pakistan and part of it has been illegally ceded to China," he said. Jaishankar said that it has to be borne in mind "that you are talking of a certain amount of real estate for which actually Pakistan is not legally claiming ownership nor is China legally claiming ownership but India is the only sovereign legal claimant of that land. The fact that the Indian sovereignty was disregarded is obviously something which is difficult for India to overlook, he said. Jaishankar noted that there is also a larger issue on connectivity, including whether it is consultative. "Are we better served by a consultative process or by a unilateral process where one player is driving connectivity for their particular interest," he asked. He said that the other issue is whether the initiative is commercially viable. "That is important because if it's not commercially viable and yet you are going through with the connectivity initiatives, then the natural question it would evoke is are there hidden agendas," Jaishankar said, adding that there is also the issue of what is the local ownership and local involvement in that connectivity project. He noted that there is no question that Asia today needs more connectivity and because there is demand for this, it is important that the supply is done in a right way. "What you don't want is that the cure is worse than the disease in a way. It is important today to have honest conversations on connectivity and try and move the connectivity conversations towards a more consultative mode. That would be part of a free and open Indo-Pacific," the former envoy added. The BRI includes USD 60-billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor which India opposes as it traverses through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The US, India and several other countries have raised concerns over the BRI as China doled out huge loans to smaller countries for infrastructure projects without taking into consideration their ability to pay back the money. Amit Shah also commented on the alleged drug nexus in Bollywood. In the last 18-24 months, several decisions have been taken to curb the problem. I assure you that under Modi jis leadership its going to be very difficult for people who want to spread drugs, said Shah. BJP chief Amit Shah on March 23 asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on Sam Pitroda's comments questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack, saying the opposition party has "insulted" martyrdom of soldiers and put a question mark on the nation's security. Launching a fresh offensive against the Congress, Shah said the opposition party is known for its "vote bank" and "appeasement" politics during elections, but Gandhi should answer whether it is above national interest and if such politics can be done over the grief of families of soldiers killed. Speaking to media, Shah said Congress leader Pitroda's remarks conveyed that the Pulwama terror attack was a "routine" incident carried out by a few people for which Pakistan cannot be blamed. Pitroda, he added, also questioned surgical strikes and air strikes launched by the Indian armed forces. "Does the Congress believe that terror incidents that happen in the country have nothing to do with the Pakistan government or Pakistan army?" Shah asked, seeking Gandhi's response. The BJP chief said the Congress has a habit of playing down such comments of its leaders as their individual opinions, but it never takes any action against them while, many of whom are close to Gandhi, he added. Pitroda, Indian Overseas Congress chief, had told media that one cannot "jump on entire nation" (Pakistan) just because some people from there "came here and attacked". In an apparent reference to the Pulwama terror attack, the Congress leader had said attacks happen all the time and then referred to the Mumbai terror strikes in 2008 when the Congress-led UPA was in power, saying the then government could have sent its planes but that is "not the right approach". Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on March 22 cited Pitroda's comments to launch an all out attack against the Congress on the issues of terrorism and national security. Pakistans Prime Minister Imran Khan wished all Hindu citizens on the occasion of Diwali. Prime Minister Imran Khan wishes a happy Diwali to all Hindu citizens, tweeted Prime Ministers Office in Pakistan. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has welcomed his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi's greetings on the eve of its National Day, saying time has come to begin a "comprehensive dialogue" between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including the "central issue" of Kashmir. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Khan, in a tweet, welcomed Modi's message and said the time has come to begin a comprehensive dialogue between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including Kashmir. "I welcome PM Modi's message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people," Khan tweeted on Friday. India has made it clear to Pakistan that cross-border terror attacks and talks cannot go hand in hand. India last year called off a planned meeting of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi on the sidelines of the annual session of the UN General Assembly in New York after blaming Pakistan-based entities for killing of three special police officers in Kashmir. Earlier, Khan also tweeted Modi's message. "Received msg from PM Modi: 'I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence'," Khan said. Modi's message to Khan came in the midst of severe strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the Pulwama attack and the subsequent air strikes by India on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot. Significantly, India Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission here to mark Pakistan's National Day, objecting to invites extended to several separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir for the event. The official sources in New Delhi said the prime minister sends a customary message on National Days to other heads of state and government and added that his message to Khan highlighted the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group JeM killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Every year on March 23, Pakistan celebrates its National Day commemorating the Lahore Resolution passed on March 23, 1940 and the adoption of the first constitution of Pakistan on March 23, 1956. The Income Tax Department Saturday dismissed as a "forgery document" and a "set of loose papers", the 'Yeddyurappa diary' about alleged bribe payment to top BJP brass that has created a political furore. The Congress, citing a media report, had Friday demanded a Lokpal probe into the charge that the state BJP chief had paid Rs 1,800 crore as bribe to the party top brass, which Yeddyurappa had dismissed as "atrocious and malicious." "Our conclusion after studying it was that it is a forgery document. It is a set of loose papers," principal chief Income Tax Commissioner of Karnataka-Goa Region B R Balakrishnan told reporters. He said "There was an attempt to just make use of the diary to influence some other investigation, which we have not succumbed to. We have done our job in this case as well." The documents, which were photocopies, were seized from Karnataka water resource minister D K Shivakumar's residence during a raid carried out by the Income Tax department on August 2, 2017, he said. The papers were sent to the forensic science laboratory in Hyderabad, which returned it saying that they need the original papers, Balakrishnan added. He said that whatever came out in the magazine (Caravan) which broke the story was not part of the Income Tax department's seized material. Balakrishnan stated that in view of various Supreme Court decisions on admissible evidence, "this particular diary has no evidentiary value." Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala had said at a press conference in New Delhi that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should come forward and clarify on the matter. Yeddyurappa had said that "all issues raised by Congress leaders are irrelevant and false." "The issue is a closed chapter," he had said, adding that he was consulting legal experts on the issue and thinking about filing a defamation case. Meanwhile, the state BJP demanded that the Congress leaders apologise after Balakrishnan dubbed the alleged diary as loose sheets of papers and a forgery document. "Congress leaders who levelled false allegations against BJP and its leaders stand exposed in public. If Congress leaders have left any sensibility in them and respect for public sentiments, they should immediately apologise," the party said. Regarding the outcome of raids at a Karnataka minister's residence, (apparently referring to Shivakumar), Balakrishnan, without mentioning his name, said the process to confiscate the Benami property worth Rs 75 crore has been initiated. "The immediate consequence of a Benami transaction is that you lose the property. Prosecution is a different thing. We will think about that," Balakrishnan added. Balakrishnan, who called the press conference to give details about the IT department's achievements in the Karnataka-Goa region in the last one year, said the region showed collection of Rs 1.11 lakh crore. It carried out more than 300 surveys, resulting in detection of undisclosed income of Rs 911 crore, he said. Representative image The ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition BJP, who are ready to battle it out in the Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal, are preferring turncoats over their tried and tested leaders. There is discontent over candidate selection within both the parties dominating the poll scenario in the state. Senior TMC leader and its South Dinajpur district chief Biplab Mitra said there is anger among grass-roots level workers of the party over giving tickets to newcomers and ignoring the old timers. The TMC is going solo and has declared names of candidates for all 42 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP declared its first list of 28 contestants in the state Thursday. The two parties defend their decision, saying winnability was of prime consideration for them. However, the TMC feels it is the best way to quell the infighting in the party, whereas for the BJP, fielding turncoats had become a compulsion as it did not have enough candidates to assure its victory. "We have party leaders and workers who are working very hard. We had given them tickets in panchayat and assembly polls. But in case of fighting Lok Sabha polls, we don't have enough candidates who can put up a fight and win," state BJP chief Dilip Ghosh said last Friday. Out of 18 new faces in TMC's list, seven are those who have either switched over from the Congress or the Left parties in the past few years. Two of the TMC's sitting MPs in north and south Bengal -- Dasarth Tirkey and Sunil Mondal -- who have been renominated this time, used to be MLAs of Left Front constituents RSP and Forward Bloc, respectively. BJP's list has six candidates who were earlier either with the TMC or the CPI(M). It also includes the name of an ex-IPS officer, who was once considered close to TMC chief Mamata Banerjee. A TMC leader told PTI on condition of anonymity that infighting is one of the biggest problems being faced by the party this time. "There are so many factions in every district that it was next to impossible to bring all the disgruntled leaders on the same page... That is why in at least seven seats which are considered tough, we have pitted those who have come from other parties so that opposing factions will at least unite under their umbrellas to help us win," he said. Out of the seven candidates who have either switched over from the Congress or the Left parties in the past few years, three have been nominated from Bolpur, Medinipur and Coochbehar which the TMC had won last time. In Malda North, Raiganj, Jangipur and Murshidabad seats, which were won by the Congress and the CPI(M) last time, the TMC has nominated MLAs and MPs who had switched over from the Congress in the last two years. "In Cooch Behar, former Left Front minister Paresh Chandra Adhikary was nominated as only a strong candidate can ensure in retaining the seat in the face of factionalism and resurgent BJP there," said a senior TMC MLA from north Bengal. The reason is the same behind nominating former state Congress president Manas Bhunia from Mednipur and Asit Mal from Bolpur. Former Congress MP Mausam Benazir Noor, who crossed over to the TMC, and has been nominated from Malda North seat told PTI, "I had joined TMC as I feel only it can fight against communal BJP in the state." On the other hand, sitting TMC MP from Bolpur, Anupam Hazra has switched over to the BJP and has been fielded from Jadavpur seat in the city. In Murshidabad, TMC youth leader and key organisational man Shamik Hossain was overlooked in favour of former Congress MLA Abu Taher, who had switched over only last year. The situation is more difficult in the BJP, which had won two seats in 2014 and now targeting to win 23 seats in the state. The BJP has emerged as the main opposition party after the 2018 panchayat polls. The party in its first list has five candidates who had recently defected to it from the TMC and one from the CPI(M). Former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh who recently joined BJP will be contesting Ghatal Lok Sabha seat on the party's ticket. During her stint as the Jhargram SP, she was considered to be the defacto TMC district president. Former TMC MLA Arjun Singh, who recently switched over to the BJP, has been pitted against TMC's Dinesh Trivedi in Barrackpore. Singh had quit the TMC recently after the party denied him a ticket for the Barrackpore seat. Former TMC MP Soumitra Khan has been given BJP ticket from his Bishnupur seat, while former CPI(M) MLA Khagen Murmu will contest on a BJP ticket from Malda North. Former TMC leader Sreerupa Mitra Chowdhury, who had contested polls on that party's ticket from New Delhi, is the BJP candidate from Malda South seat this time, while TMC youth leader Nishith Pramanik, who was expelled last year, has been fielded from Cooch Behar. The BJP has fielded another TMC turncoat Bolpur MP Anupam Hazra from Jadavpur. BJP leader Mukul Roy, once TMC's number two, defended the saffron party's decision on fielding turncoats. "Anybody who wants to fight against TMC misrule in Bengal is welcome," Roy said. BJP workers had staged protest in Cooch Behar and Malda North against the party's decision to nominate TMC and CPI(M) leaders instead of local party leaders. Several BJP leaders, including its vice president Raj Kamal Pathak, have submitted their resignation and protests have been organised in various parts of the state over candidate selection. The seven-phase polling in the state will begin on April 11. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have said the Centre's decision to boycott the Pakistan Day function at its High Commission in Delhi was due to the Lok Sabha polls. India has decided to boycott a reception at the Pakistan High Commission to mark that country's national day as several separatists leaders from the state have been invited to the event, the External Affairs Ministry said March 22. "On one hand, PM sends greetings to Pak for its national day. On another, many invitees to celebrations held at Pak High Comm were harassed outside by cops. This dichotomy & inconsistency is a well thought out strategy dictated entirely by electoral prospects & domestic politics," PDP president Mufti tweeted. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said while the BJP-led government at the Centre had no problems in sending a representative to Pakistan Day event from 2015 to 2018, this year, the decision to boycott was taken as the elections loom. "The Modi Govt/BJP had no problem sending a Minister in 2015, '16, '17 & '18 yet suddenly in 2019 as an election looms a decision is taken to boycott & then we put officers to dissuade other invitees. To think we used to blame Pakistan for having an India centric campaign!" he said in a series of tweets. Abdullah said if Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not sent his greetings to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan, there would have been no confusion about Delhi's relations with Islamabad. The prime minister has sent a letter to his Pakistani counterpart, greeting people of the neighbouring country on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia, official sources said Friday. Abdullah latched on to the greetings to attack Modi. "If only the spooks & other interested players stopping people from attending the Pak National Day event had also stopped PM Modi from sending his greeting to PM Khan we wouldn't look so damn confused about our relations with Pakistan," he said. "But then if he's only following custom it is also custom to send a minister & it is NOT custom to plant spooks & pliant journalists to bully invited guests to not attend. Can't pick & choose which customs we like & which we don't," he added. Over the years, India's representation at the annual event has been at the level of a Union minister. The External Affairs Ministry said no Indian representative will attend similar events in Islamabad as well. File image Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will address a rally in northeast parliamentary constituency on March 26 as part of the BJP's 'Vijay Sankalp' rallies for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. BJP president Amit Shah will launch the party's poll campaign after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced with a rally in Agra in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, and its top leaders will hold rallies in every constituency across the country till Tuesday. Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Sushma Swaraj, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Piyush Goyal, J P Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan, Nirmala Sitharaman, Smriti Irani and other party leaders are scheduled to address rallies on Sunday and Tuesday. Delhi BJP General Secretary Rajesh Bhatia said the party's Delhi wing will organise two Jan Sabhas on March 24 and five jan sabhas on March 26 as part of the election campaign. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will address the rally in northeast parliamentary constituency on Tuesday and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will address the Jan Sabha in New Delhi Parliamentary Constituency. BJP's National general secretary Dr Anil Jain will address party workers of northwest parliamentary constituency, Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will address workers in east Delhi, Lok Sabha Elections co-incharge Jai Bhan Paiwaya in Chandni Chowk, national spokesperson Sambit Patra in south Delhi and MP and national spokesperson Meenakshi Lekhi will address party workers of west Delhi. Meanwhile, on Saturday, a 'Chikitsak Sammelan' (Doctors Conclave) was organised by the Delhi BJP where the office-bearers interacted with several doctors. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said that if anybody has taken care of the health of 130 crore people of the country, it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "If anybody falls ill and requires medical treatment, Modi government will provide free treatment of up to Rs 5 lakh. By obstructing the implementation of Aayushman Bharat and 10 per cent reservation to the forward castes, the Kejriwal Government has betrayed the people," he said. He said just like 'the Prime Minister who is the chowkidaar of the country, doctors are also the chowkidaars of Delhi". Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has said that Sri Lanka preserved its sovereignty by not agreeing to set up an office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in the country even as main Tamil party TNA called for allowing foreign judges and prosecutors to probe the alleged war crimes. "We told that an office was not required, the High Commissioner is welcome to visit the country if she so wished. We have preserved Sri Lanka's sovereignty and the world has come to accept it," Wickremesinghe said at a public gathering on Friday. The Tamil and international rights groups had demanded that UN Human Rights High Commissioner's office be set up here in order to keep monitoring Sri Lanka's human rights accountability process in terms of the UN rights resolutions adopted since 2012. They cited Sri Lanka's snail paced action and its lack of political will to deliver justice to the victims of three-decade long civil war with the LTTE. Wickremesinghe said former president Mahinda Rajapaksa and the former UN chief Ban ki Moon in May 2009 had agreed to subject Sri Lanka to an accountability process for violation of international humanitarian law. Sri Lanka's non-compliance later had forced the UN rights body resolutions. The prime minister said that no soldier will be taken before any court for trial outside. "We will take action against anyone breaking the law," he said. On Thursday, the UN Human Rights Council gave Colombo two more years to set up a credible investigation into the country's brutal civil war and fulfil its commitments in the 2015 resolution. The 2015 resolution had called for an international investigation in a hybrid court on alleged human rights violations blamed on both the government troops and the LTTE during the final phase of the conflict which ended in 2009 with the killing of rebel Tamil Tiger chief Velupillai Prabhakaran. Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Thilak Marapana told the UNHRC in Geneva on Thursday that the island's constitution does not permit foreign judges to function in the country. Marapana said Sri Lanka should be encouraged to and assisted in finding innovative local mechanism with international best practices. Tamil and rights groups have called for establishing an office of the UN rights commissioner locally to monitor Sri Lanka's implementation process. Marapana said there was no justification for setting up of such an office as Sri Lanka had already taken many measures for transitional justice. The main Tamil party in parliament debunked Marapana's assertion and said they would press for an international tribunal even taking the issue to the international criminal court. They said that Tamils cannot trust the Sri Lankan state to deliver justice when they are a party to the conflict. PTI CORRPMS . January 13, 2017 "35 Pages" Attack Against Trump Fails - Foreign And Domestic Losses UPDATED (at end of original) The tale about the fake accusations about Russian influence on the U.S. presidential election becomes more gripping by each day. The are part of a larger war between various groups of the "elites" but also include infighting between U.S. government organizations. We know that there was heavy Ukrainian influence on the side of Clinton in the election and in the current smear campaign against Trump and Russia. But it certainly wasn't Ukraine alone that is behind this. There are more international connections. The "former" desk officer for Russia in the British MI6 Christopher Steele was the one who prepared the 35 pages of obviously false claims about Russian connections with and kompromat against Trump. There are so many inconsistencies in these pages that anyone knowledgeable about the workings in Moscow could immediately identify it as fake. Putin personally started working on Trump five years ago when Trump had no political role or hope whatsoever? A Trump associate met Russian officials in Prague even though he has never been in the Czech Republic? Steele spread the fakes throughout the press corps in Washington DC but no media published them because these were obviously false accusations. Steele then decided to hand the papers to the FBI and to talk to its agents hoping they would start an official investigation. He cleared his move (or was ordered to proceed?) at the highest level of the British government: The Daily Telegraph was told during a meeting with a highly-placed source in Washington DC last October that the FBI had contacted Mr Steele asking if they could discuss his findings with him. The source said that Mr Steele spoke to officials in London to ask for permission to speak to the FBI, which was duly granted, and that Downing Street was informed. ... Once he had been given the all-clear, he met an FBI agent in another European country, where he discussed the background to the file he had compiled. His contact with the FBI reportedly began in July last year and ended in October, after he became frustrated by the bureaus slow progress. When Steele's first move with the FBI in October did note deliver the hoped for results an attempt to stove pipe them through Senator John McCain was launched. A "former" British ambassador to Moscow arranged the hand over: A former British ambassador to Russia has revealed he played a significant role in bringing the Donald Trump 'dirty dossier' to the attention of the American intelligence services. Sir Andrew Wood said he spoke to Republican senator John McCain at an international security conference in November about the existence of material that could compromise the president-elect. Mr McCain subsequently handed the document, which contained allegations of lurid sexual behaviour by Mr Trump in Russian hotels, to the head of the FBI. The MI6 is well known for launching fakes on behalf of the British government. Even the second, more official handover to the FBI still did not result in the hoped for publication of the allegations. But by that time Clinton was widely expect to win the election anyway so no further steps were taken. After Trump unexpectedly won the election a new effort was launched to publish the smears. The Director of National Intelligence decided (or was ordered to) "brief" the President, the President elect and Congress on the obviously dubious accusations. It was this decision that made sure that the papers would eventually be published. As the NYT noted: What exactly prompted American intelligence officials to pass on a summary of the unvetted claims to Mr. Obama, Mr. Trump and Congress? Officials have said they felt the president-elect should be aware of the memos, which had circulated widely in Washington. But putting the summary in a report that went to multiple people in Congress and the executive branch made it very likely that it would be leaked. [emphasis in the original!] Only after Clapper or others leaked to CNN about the briefing of Obama, Trump and Congress, did CNN publish about the 35 pages: Classified documents presented last week to President Obama and President-elect Trump included allegations that Russian operatives claim to have compromising personal and financial information about Mr. Trump, multiple US officials with direct knowledge of the briefings tell CNN. ... The classified briefings last week were presented by four of the senior-most US intelligence chiefs -- Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, FBI Director James Comey, CIA Director John Brennan, and NSA Director Admiral Mike Rogers. ... CNN has reviewed a 35-page compilation of the memos, from which the two-page synopsis was drawn. The memos have since been published by Buzzfeed. The memos originated as opposition research, first commissioned by anti-Trump Republicans, and later by Democrats. At this point, CNN is not reporting on details of the memos, as it has not independently corroborated the specific allegations. The last half-sentence is part of the smear campaign. When DNI Clapper recently tried to exculpate himself from the shit-storm he created he used the same obfuscation: The IC has not made any judgment that the information in this document is reliable .. That is like saying: "The IC has not made any judgement that information of Barack Obama's Kenyan citizenship is reliable .." Any media or intelligence agency that claims it could or did not judge the content of 35 papers is obfuscating in an attempt to give them additional weight. The easily verifiable content is so obviously false that the few not immediately verifiable claims in it can not be taken serious. The media and Clapper know this and, if they were truthful, would say so. The attack on Trump (and Russia) failed. Trump brushed it of with a few tweets and sentences in his press conference. The attack did not hold up any of the procedures in Congress or elsewhere necessary to install the new administration. It did not change policies. The British government and the MI6 have cake on their face. The DNI office and the CIA will bleed. The attack was a deep state attempt to stage a coup against Trump: Trump has deliberately rattled the members of the deep state with his brazen criticism of U.S. intelligence findings about Russian hacking. Deep government does not stand idly by, as David Runciman wrote recently in the London Review of Books, and allow itself to be shat upon by newcomers. The president-elect has enemies in profusion on the inside who are practiced at the art of the leak. They may have had no official role in this attempt to stage a coup against Trump before hes even inaugurated, but they must be cheering BuzzFeeds naughtiness as they sharpen their knives for his administration. This blog reported and warned a month ago of such "elite" coup attempts. The fight has since become more intense. But this attack failed. Trump gained standing against the "fake news" created by the 35 pages. The fakery and smear attempt was just too obvious. One wonders why it was launched at all. Who panicked? President Obama, major U.S. intelligence heads, neoconservatives, the British government, Ukrainian "nationalist (aka fascist) circles and the Clinton campaign conspire against Trump and try to derail his announced policy changes. Trump has argued for better relations with Russia and for a concentrated fight in Syria and Iraq against ISIS and other Takfiris and Islamists. This endangers Obama's legacies of starting a new cold war with Russia and of pampering al Qaeda and ISIS to overthrow the Syrian government. Two fights within the U.S. government are being waged within this larger context. One is the fight between the CIA and the U.S. military over spying competence and lethal operations. CIA Director Brennan, who was and is Obama's consigliere and a Saudi operative, has waged a military campaign in Afghanistan, Yemen, Iraq, Syria and several other countries. The CIA's assassinations by drones is an operational issue which the military believes should be under its exclusive control. On the other side military special forces missions have hindered CIA intelligence gathering. The CIA support for and training of various Takfiri militants in Syria, Iraq and Libya is against the interest of the soldiers who eventually will have to fight these groups. The incoming National Security Advisor Flynn warned against the CIA's policies back in 2012 when he led the Defense Intelligence Agency. U.S. special forces then sabotaged such CIA operations in Syria. With Flynn coming in as National Security Advisor the CIA is in danger of losing this fight. Flynn will argue for a CIA that only collects and analyzes and will likely try to move all operative businesses to the military Joint Special Operations Command. Today the CIA used its unofficial spokesperson to (again) warn Flynn off. Writing in Jeff Bezos' blog David Ignatius stenographed the threat: According to a senior U.S. government official, Flynn phoned Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak several times on Dec. 29, the day the Obama administration announced the expulsion of 35 Russian officials as well as other measures in retaliation for the hacking. What did Flynn say, and did it undercut the U.S. sanctions? The Logan Act (though never enforced) bars U.S. citizens from correspondence intending to influence a foreign government about disputes with the United States. Was its spirit violated? (If Flynn's phone-calls are under FISA surveillance would that not be highly classified? How else would anyone know about them? How many laws were broken by planting this through Ignatius?) A second area of internal conflict is about the Director of the FBI Comey. He was and is not sufficiently deferential to the Obama cabal and the Clinton campaign. He launched and publicly announced an investigation into Clinton's proven illegal behavior with regard to her private email server, but he refrained from announcing and investigating the obviously fake accusations against Trump which were peddled to him. Such disloyal misdeed demands punishment: The Justice Departments inspector general said Thursday that he would open a broad investigation into how the F.B.I. director, James B. Comey, handled the case over Hillary Clintons emails, .. ... The inspector generals office said that it was initiating the investigation in response to complaints from members of Congress and the public about actions by the F.B.I. and the Justice Department during the campaign that could be seen as politically motivated. The inspector general is serving at the pleasure of the president. He can be fired as soon as Trump is in office. Unless he joins the cabal against Trump Comey has nothing to fear. But the war against Trump is not over. Trump should and must be fought but that fight should be about important economic and social issues for which people care and of which there are plenty. Trump has his own cabal, libertarian billionaires like the Koch brothers, several generals in his cabinet and arch Zionists like Adelson. But that cabal's henchmen are not yet installed throughout the government. It is important to hinder such infestation. The fight as it is waged now is an attempt to redirect Trump's foreign policies and to generally lesson his foreign policy power. That fight was already lost during the campaign. Every attempt to accuse Trump of this or that "Russia" outrage that has nothing to do with the average voter's life simply fails. These pseudo scandals waged within the "elite" media against him just makes him stronger. But the cabal was unable to understand that during the campaign and is still unable to get a grip on it. It will continue its attempts and will lessen its own power through its failures. Effort by Obama loyalists against Trump started immediately after election day: Over the past 10 years, Obama alumni have spread throughout the government, the advocacy world, and influential parts of the private sector, including at Google and Facebook. That means theres a lot diverse talent to harness. More attacks on Trump will come even when Trump is in full power and starts to clean house. But all of those who openly work against him will be endangered. The continued open attacks only lay bare the various actors behind them. Those will be be shunned. Each new open attack against Trump will eliminate another power center installed during the Obama administration. If these hopeless attacks continue few will be left to wage the silent, patient resistance against the Trump administration that will be necessary to lessen the damage it will create. To now attack Trump, Flynn, Comey or even Putin is hopeless and unproductive. It only hinders achieving their long-term aims. One thereby wonders why this panic reaction from one side of the deep state cabal continues. What dirt have they hidden that they fear will be unearthed? A number of House Democrats left Friday's confidential briefing on Russian hacking fuming over the actions of FBI Director James Comey and convinced he's unfit to lead the agency. "I was nonjudgmental until the last 15 minutes. I no longer have that confidence in him," Rep. Tim Walz (D-Minn.), ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, said as he left the meeting in the Capitol. "Some of the things that were revealed in this classified briefing my confidence has been shook." ... UPDATE: FBI director Comey pissed on the House Democrats at the end of a classified hearing today. This a day after Obama's Justice Department IG opened a case against him (see above). One might guess that Comey has had enough of it OR has now been assured of Trump's backing. The Hill reports Posted by b on January 13, 2017 at 14:34 UTC | Permalink Comments next page June 26, 2017 Open Thread 2017-25 WaPo has a 8,300 word weekend opus on how Obama failed to react to CIA director Brennan's claims that Putin himself ordered to hack the U.S. election. Note: Reading that piece it becomes clear (but is never said) that the sole source for that August 2016 Brennan claim of "Russian hacking" is the absurd Steele dossier some ex-MI6 dude created for too much money as opposition research against Trump. The only other "evidence" for "Russian hacking" is the Crowdstrike report on the DNC "hack". Crowdstrike has a Ukrainian nationalist agenda, was hired by the DNC, had to retract other "Russian hacking" claims and no one else was allowed to take a look at the DNC servers. Said differently: The whole "Russian hacking" claims are solely based on "evidence" of two fake reports. Democrats tell party leaders: Stop talking about Russia. No one is interested in that bullshit. Get back to basic issues. The first spinner toy was developed in Iraq around 2000 BC and Adam Smith copied many of his economic theories from Ibn Khaldun who had developed these 400 years before Smith plagiarized him. A Middle Eastern regime drops plans for mixed-gender worship under pressure from religious hardliners. Uber has no valid business model and will go down in disgrace (no link, just a fact). Trump launched cruise missiles against Syria knowing that no Sarin was used in the Khan Sheikhun attack. (Background on the suppression of this Seymour Hersh story in U.S and British media: The Fog of War.) The new French Defense Minister had to leave her office after it became known that she was paid 10,000 per month by a U.S. think tank (french, machine translation.) Please add your news & views in the comments. Posted by b on June 26, 2017 at 14:47 UTC | Permalink Comments next page October 26, 2017 British Involvement In "Trump Dossier" Needs Further Investigation We noted back in July that the only relevant "collusion with the Russians" during the 2016 election cycle was the Democratic Party and Hillary Clinton smear campaign against Donald Trump: Hillary Clinton campaign cut-out hires the (former?) British intelligence agent Steele to pay money to (former?) Russian intelligence agents and high-level Kremlin employees for dirt about Donald Trump. They deliver some fairy tales. The resulting dossier is peddled far and wide throughout Washington DC with the intent of damaging Trump. There was never evidence that Steele indeed talked to any Russian, or really had contact with his claimed sources. He has been for years persona non grata in Moscow and could not visit the country. Yesterday, our assertion that Clinton campaign cut-outs paid for the dossier, was finally confirmed: Clinton campaign, DNC paid for research that led to Russia dossier Marc E. Elias, a lawyer representing the Clinton campaign and the DNC, retained Fusion GPS, a Washington firm, to conduct the research. .., After that, Fusion GPS hired dossier author Christopher Steele, a former British intelligence officer with ties to the FBI and the U.S. intelligence community, according to those people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Told ya so ... Michael Sussmann, a lawyer from the same firm that hired Fusion GPS on order of Democrats, hired the Crowdstrike cyber-outlet to investigate the leak of DNC emails. Crowdstrike and the DNC denied the FBI access to the relevant servers but asserted that "Russian hacking" was the source of the leak. The "Trump dossier" was opposition research ordered up and paid for by the Clinton/DNC mafia. Most of its content was obviously fake or patched together from publicly known facts. But it took up to now for U.S. media to point that out. The fake dossier, paid for by the Democrats, was used by the FBI under Obama to get FISA warrants to spy on Republican party operatives. We noted in January that the dossier was additionally used by the British and American deep state to sabotage Trump's plans for better relations with Russia (see original for source quotes): The "former" desk officer for Russia in the British MI6 Christopher Steele was the one who prepared the 35 pages of obviously false claims about Russian connections with and kompromat against Trump. There are so many inconsistencies in these pages that anyone knowledgeable about the workings in Moscow could immediately identify it as fake. ... Steele spread the fakes throughout the press corps in Washington DC but no media published them because these were obviously false accusations. Steele then decided to hand the papers to the FBI and to talk to its agents hoping they would start an official investigation. He cleared his move (or was ordered to proceed?) at the highest level of the British government: ... When Steele's first move with the FBI in October did note deliver the hoped for results an attempt to stove pipe them through Senator John McCain was launched. A "former" British ambassador to Moscow arranged the hand over: ... The MI6 is well known for launching fakes on behalf of the British government. Even the second, more official handover to the FBI still did not result in the hoped for publication of the allegations. But by that time Clinton was widely expect to win the election anyway so no further steps were taken. After Trump unexpectedly won the election a new effort was launched to publish the smears. The Director of National Intelligence decided (or was ordered to) "brief" the President, the President elect and Congress on the obviously dubious accusations. It was this decision that made sure that the papers would eventually be published. As the NYT noted: ... Only after Clapper or others leaked to CNN about the briefing of Obama, Trump and Congress, did CNN publish about the 35 pages: ... The attack was a deep state attempt to stage a coup against Trump: After the election the Democrats stopped paying for new Steele reports. But by then efforts to make the fake Steele reports public and to thereby sabotage Trump policies turned into high gear. McCain had already been involved in distributing the report and it was he or the Brits who who paid for the last fake report Steele delivered: Let me remind you of the basic facts about the Dossier--It consists of 13 separate reports. The first is dated 20 June 2016. That date is important because it shows that it took a little more than two months [after the Democrats started paying] for Fusion GPS to generate its first report on Trump's alleged Russian activities. If Fusion GPS already had something in the can then I would expect them to have put something out in early May. Eleven more reports were generated between 26 July and 19 October 2016. That tracks with the letter from Perkins Coie that the engagement by the Clinton Campaign ended at the end of October. But there is a big problem and unanswered question--The Dossier includes a final report that is dated 13 December 2016. Who paid for this? Was it John McCain? The purpose of the final fake report Steele added to the dossier was to provide "evidence" that Trump was involved in the "Russian hacking" of the DNC: After Donald Trump was elected, Christopher Steele prepared an additional memorandum (dated 13 December 2016) that made the following claims: Michael Cohen[, President Donald Trump's longtime personal lawyer,] held a secret meeting in Prague, Czechoslovakia in August 2016 with Kremlin operatives. Cohen, allegedly accompanied by 3 colleagues (Not Further Identified), met with Oleg SOLODUKHIM to discuss on how deniable cash payments were to be made to hackers who had worked in Europe under Kremlin direction against the Clinton campaign and various contingencies for covering up these operations and Moscow's secret liaison with the Trump team more generally. In Prague, Cohen agreed (sic) contingency plans for various scenarios to protect the operation, but in particular what was to be done in the event that Hillary Clinton won the Presidency. Sergei Ivanov's associate claimed that payments to hackers had been made by both Trump's team and the Kremlin. ... Christopher Steele passed a copy of the December memo to a senior UK Government national security official and to Fusion GPS (via encrypted email) with the instruction to give a hard copy to Senator McCain via David Kramer. Michael Cohen, Trump's lawyer, denies to have been in Prague. The meeting Steele "reported" did not happen. The intent of this December Steele report was to further the meme of "Russian hacking" by providing fake evidence for alleged Trump involvement in it. But the report is false. Trump/Cohen did not hire "Russian hackers". Who's interest was it to plant this meme? Was this a British attempt to divert attention from their own hacking? The Brits are knee deep involved in the Steele reports. There is the hiring of a (former?) British MI-6 agent to make up the dossier. Who came up with his name? The dossier was first peddled to McCain by a (former?) British ambassador. The British government green-lighted pushing the report to the FBI. It was one of the customers of the last Steele report. The source said that Mr Steele spoke to officials in London to ask for permission to speak to the FBI, which was duly granted, and that Downing Street was informed. The last Steele report was not paid for by the DNC. It was delivered to British government and to John McCain. The purpose of this last report was to plant false evidence that Trump paid for "Russian hacking". There is a strong cooperation between U.S. and British intelligence. Why were the highest levels of the British government involved in the "private investigation" that resulted in the Steele dossier. Did the Brits act on their own initiative or were they cut-outs for U.S. intelligence circles, especially for Obama's consigliere and CIA director John Brennan? It his time for Congress to dig deeper into the undue British influence in this whole affair. Posted by b on October 26, 2017 at 7:26 UTC | Permalink Comments next page next page March 23, 2019 Russiagate Is Really Finished On February 12 we wrote that Russiagate Is Finished. The conclusion was based on an NBC report: After two years and 200 interviews, the Senate Intelligence Committee is approaching the end of its investigation into the 2016 election, having uncovered no direct evidence of a conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, according to both Democrats and Republicans on the committee. ... Democrats and other Trump opponents have long believed that special counsel Robert Mueller and Congressional investigators would unearth new and more explosive evidence of Trump campaign coordination with Russians. Mueller may yet do so, although Justice Department and Congressional sources say they believe that he, too, is close to wrapping up his investigation. Russiagate conspiracy theorist Marcy Wheeler countered by arguing that a conspiracy had been proven when Trump's former campaign chief Paul Manafort admitted to handing out polling data to some Ukrainian/Russian contact to curry favor with some Russian oligarch he owned money. But Manafort's crimes, which he plead guilty for on September 14 2018, had nothing to do with "Russia" or with Trump and only peripherally with his election campaign: On Friday, Manafort, who was chairman of Donald Trumps presidential campaign from June to August 2016, pleaded guilty in federal district court in Washington to two charges of conspiracy against the United Statesone involving a lobbying scheme that involved financial crimes and foreign-agent registration violations, and the other involving witness tampering. In the course of his plea, Manafort also admitted guilt on bank-fraud charges on which a federal jury in Virginia hung last month. Marcy and others held out hope that the Mueller investigation would come up with an indictment that would justify the utter nonsense she and other Russagaters promoted for over two years. Just two week ago former CIA director John Brennan, who likely conspired with British intelligence to frame Trump with the Russia affair, said (vid) that he expected further indictments: During an appearance on MSNBC on March 5, Brennan predicted that Mueller would issue indictments related to a criminal conspiracy involving Trump or his associates activities during the 2016 election. That last hope of the Russiagate dead-enders is now gone: Special counsel Robert S. Mueller III submitted a long-awaited report to Attorney General William P. Barr on Friday, marking the end of his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and possible obstruction of justice by President Trump. ... A senior Justice Department official said the special counsel has not recommended any further indictments a revelation that buoyed Trumps supporters, even as other Trump-related investigations continue in other parts of the Justice Department. ... None of the Americans charged by Mueller are accused of conspiring with Russia to interfere in the election the central question of Muellers work. Instead, they pleaded guilty to various crimes, including lying to the FBI. The investigation ended without charges for a number of key figures who had long been under Muellers scrutiny ... Conclusions from the Mueller report will be released by the Justice Department over the next days. That the Russiagaters were wrong for falling for the bullshit peddled in the Steele dossier and the "Russian hacking" lies of the snakeoil salesmen Clapper and Brennan was obvious long ago. In June 2017 we pointed to a long Washington Post piece on alleged Russian election hacking and remarked: Reading that piece it becomes clear (but is never said) that the sole source for that August 2016 Brennan claim of "Russian hacking" is the absurd Steele dossier some ex-MI6 dude created for too much money as opposition research against Trump. The only other "evidence" for "Russian hacking" is the Crowdstrike report on the DNC "hack". Crowdstrike has a Ukrainian nationalist agenda, was hired by the DNC, had to retract other "Russian hacking" claims and no one else was allowed to take a look at the DNC servers. Said differently: The whole "Russian hacking" claims are solely based on "evidence" of two fake reports. The Steele dossier was fake opposition research peddled by the Clinton campaign, John McCain and a bunch of anti-Trump national security types. The still unproven claim of "Russian hacking" was designed to divert from the fact that Clinton and the DNC colluded to cheat Bernie Sanders out of the nomination. The stupid claim that commercial click-bait from a company in Leningrad was a "Russian influence campaign" was designed to explain Clinton's election loss to the other worst-candidate-ever. The "Russiagate" investigation was designed to prevent Trump from finding better relations with Russia as he had promised during his campaign. All were somewhat successful because some media and some bloggers were happy to sell such nonsense without putting it into the big picture. It is high time to start a deep investigation into Brennan, Clapper, Comey and the Clinton campaign and to uncover the conspiracy that led to the Steele dossier, the FBI investigation following from it and all the other bullshit that evolved from that investigation. As for Marcy Wheeler, Rachel Maddow and other dimwits who peddled the Russiagate nonsense I agree with the advice Catlin Johnstone gives: Every politician, every media figure, every Twitter pundit and everyone who swallowed this moronic load of bull spunk has officially discredited themselves for life. ... The people who steered us into two years of Russiavape insanity are the very last people anyone should ever listen to ever again when determining the future direction of our world. Posted by b on March 23, 2019 at 17:12 UTC | Permalink Comments next page next page A 5-year-old boy died Thursday night after a table fell on him at a church in the Greenspoint area, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. The boy has not been identified. Police said they are still investigating what caused the table to fall. Gov. J.B. Pritzker says small businesses in Illinois should be paying higher taxes and that taxpayers can expect deep cuts to government services if they dont approve his $3.4 billion progressive tax plan. Pritzker has been making appearances across the state to promote his plan. He has been backed by some mayors who support changing the state constitutions flat income tax to a structure where those who earn more pay higher tax rates. The governors tax proposal includes modest rate reductions from the states existing 4.95 flat rate for 97 percent of taxpayers. Those making more than $250,000 a year would pay 7.75 percent or more in state taxes. Wisconsin, Missouri, and Iowa all use a fair tax approach, and its time for Illinois to get on board, Fairmont Mayor Michael Suarez said. We cant afford to continue on with our unfair flat tax while other states do this right. Businesses would also have to pay more, the governor said. I believe that its fair to ask the 3 percent at the top to pay a little bit more so that we can get this state moving again, so that we can actually get past the fiscal challenges, Pritzker said Monday. Illinois has more than $15 billion in unpaid bills, just under half of which is bonded debt. Theres also the $134 billion in unfunded public pension liability and tens of billions of estimated other post-employment benefits for state employees. State Rep. Blaine Wilhour, R-Beecher City, said increasing the flat rate of 4.95 percent to a progressive tax of 7.75 or higher, isnt a little bit more. Wilhour said for anyone making more than $250,000 a year, including small business owners, such an increase will mean fewer jobs. Its not going to be good. Its a jobs killing tax theres no doubt about that, Wilhour said. We need to be working on lowering taxes and cutting our spending. Pritzkers proposal would have the lowest income earners, those making up to $10,000 a year, paying a 4.75 percent income tax rate to the state. The governors office said that represents 27.2 percent of Illinois taxpayers. Those making up to $100,000 would pay 4.90 percent. That group includes 58.9 percent of taxpayers. The existing 4.95 percent rate would stay the same for those earning up to $250,000, which is 11.1 percent of the states taxpayers. From there, the rate jumps nearly 3 percentage points to 7.75 percent for people making up to $500,000. Thats 1.9 percent of taxpayers. Those earning more than $500,000 would pay 7.85 percent. People with income of $1 million or more would pay the state 7.95 percent on all income. Businesses filing as corporations would see a flat tax under Pritzkers plan, but the rates would increase from 7 percent to 7.95 percent. Lawmakers less than two years ago increased income taxes by $5 billion over former Gov. Bruce Rauners veto, and they spent every bit of it and then some. Pritzker wants to change the states constitution to implement progressive rates, taxing higher earners at higher rates, to capture $3.4 billion more. If voters dont approve the progressive tax proposal at the ballot box, the governor said deep cuts would be needed after paying all the states bills. Youre left without about $19 billion and thats where youd have to cuts, Pritzker said. Its in public safety, its in education, its in economic development, its in universities. Pritzker said he is regularly looking at state programs to find efficiencies and will continue to do so, but said he continues to push for a progressive income tax to bring stability to the states budget. Wilhour said Illinois needs to grow revenue by growing the states economy, and that should be done with tax cuts and reforms that would help businesses grow. Weve got all of these promises of the shrinking tax base, so taxpayers are going to be on the hook for this no matter what, Wilhour said. Wilhour said Pritzkers projections that the progressive structure would bring in $3.4 billion in new revenue arent guaranteed and could force lawmakers to later push tax rates higher not just for the rich, but also for the middle class. With the tax rates not set in stone in a progressive plan, and with how policymakers have historically handled the states finances, he said it will be difficult for voters and taxpayers to trust state lawmakers. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 23) CNN International correspondent Paula Hancocks grew up believing that she can do anything and that gender was never an issue. Speaking at Taking Charge, CNN Philippines' second women's summit in Taguig Sunday, Hancocks shared how she grew up in a family without gender bias. She was given as much opportunities as her older brother, and the same quality of education. "I was brought up to believe that I can do anything I wanted to. If I didn't succeed then I probably didn't work hard enough ... It never came into the calculation that maybe I didn't succeed because I was a woman," she said. While the real world might not have been as kind, she thanks her parents for never making gender a reason for her to give up on something she wanted. "Thank you for not making inequality an issue for me so I didn't feel that I had to fight against it. I was surprised when I came up against it but it was something that I never felt I had to give in to because I was never prepared for the fact that I should give into it," she added. As a South Korea-based journalist, a country that's going through its own much needed feminist movement, Hancocks saw how important it is for women around the world to be empowered. This, Hancocks said, should start from an early education. "Too many girls around the world are denied the very basic right to education. It ensures that inequality is felt from birth. It ensures that girls are put at a disadvantage at a really early age," she said. But the fight to have a more gender balanced world shouldn't be a woman-only fight. "Gender balance just with women, that's not balance. You need everybody to be involved in this," she said, adding that she wouldn't be where she is if her father hadn't shown her that it's alright for a girl to choose sports, or if her husband had told her to leave her career after the birth of their first daughter. What's important, she said, is that people are raised free from prejudice. "You're not born prejudiced. That starts later." Texas tops for two taps on Instagram, according to a global list. Big Seven Travel, a website for adventurers, curated "America's Most Instagrammable States 2019," a global list where the Lone Star State beats out New York. While spots around the state's other big cities, like Houston, Dallas and Austin were mentioned, the Alamo City was not included. RELATED: Things that test even the most veteran San Antonians According to the website, the states were ranked by their "visual allure and popularity on social media." The site used a scoring system that looked at the amount of hashtags per place, surveyed their readership of 1.5 million and votes cast by a panel of travel experts. "It's exciting to see Texas take the top spot as America's Most Instagrammable State for 2019. With its on-trend cities such as Houston, Dallas and Austin, as well as beautiful nature (Hamilton Pool Natural Preserve instantly comes to mind!), it's clear to see why Texas was such a favourite with both our readers and judges," Sarah Clayton-Lea, head of content at Big 7 Media, said in a news release. See which Texas spots made the list in the gallery above. Madalyn Mendoza is a breaking news reporter and general assignment writer. Read her on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | mmendoza@mysa.com | @MaddySkye Police say two men are in serious condition and another is under arrest after a multi-agency, high-speed chase through San Antonio ended in a rollover early Saturday. Department of Public Safety troopers began pursuit about midnight after a DPS helicopter spotted a reported stolen pickup truck traveling in South Bexar County, according to officials. I, like many, many San Antonians, will never forget Ira Atteburys name. I couldnt pick the mans face out of a photo lineup, but Ill never forget his name. Attebury was the man who, on April 26, 1979, fired shots into a crowd waiting along Broadway for the Battle of Flowers parade to begin. I was 9 years old and sitting at home in front of the full force of the air-conditioning window unit and our big TV with my little brother, snacks in hand, waiting for the parade to start. When the news of the shooting began airing in place of the marching bands and balloons, all I could think of was that the parade was downtown, where my dad worked. My mom tried to call him, but he didnt answer. I remember her explaining to me that the office where my daddy worked was in a different part of downtown, far away from Broadway and Grayson, the streets the news crews kept talking about. I also remember the people on television repeating the name Ira Attebury. That weekend, my grandparents from Laredo came for a visit. When my favorite people in the world began talking about the shooting, my grandfather, a quiet man who rarely spoke English, said he had heard on the news that the shooter was a man named Ira Attebury. And guess who the kids were talking about when I got back to school the next Monday? Back then, the mere suggestion of evil scared me. Whenever certain names came up Charles Manson, Father Damien Karras, Jim Jones, Dr. Anton Phibes they made me want to run to my room, turn on my record player that looked like a harvest-gold suitcase and turn up the volume as far as it would go, because The Hustle would make me forget. Ira Atteburys name flew to the top of that list of names. So I understand exactly where New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is going with her refusal to say the name of the man responsible for the terrorist attacks that shook her country two weeks ago. He is a terrorist, he is a criminal, he is an extremist. she said in a speech to New Zealands Parliament last week. But he will, when I speak, be nameless. Name-specific notoriety brings power. It encourages copycats. It plants and cultivates fear. It turns the perpetrator of something evil into a household word. Thing is, it also fools us into believing we can silence the worst of humanity by not letting it be heard. Denying the shooter notoriety makes sense. But it also creates the illusion that The Bad Guy is someone other than one of us. Because of her position, Ardern can and probably should avoid the shooters name. The rest of us, however, need to understand how the troubled become monsters while the world isnt watching. Ira Attebury wasnt the Abominable Dr. Phibes; he was a lonely man with paranoia that spun out of control when he was forced to leave his career as a truck driver after an accident. And despite his efforts, he didnt stop Fiesta because were still going. Its too early to know exactly what led Brenton Tarrant to terrorize two mosques and stream the attack on social media, but we do know that he is one of us. He, like the people he killed, is human. And we cant pretend that he or others on the way to becoming another version of him will cease to exist if we dont hear his name. They are us. And they are our problem. mariaanglinwrites@gmail.com The worst ideas in Washington are often bipartisan. Big Tech is about to learn this lesson, if it hasnt already. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., is out with a headline-grabbing proposal to break up Big Tech companies, the sort of overly ambitious government plan that once would have engendered knee-jerk Republican opposition. Not anymore. Who says we all cant get along? When the senator tweeted her (understandable) objection that Facebook had taken down her ads attacking Facebook and other tech companies, Sen. Ted Cruz, R- agreed that the companies have too much power. Tech is caught in a right-left pincer. Conservatives dont like these companies because they are owned and operated by sanctimonious Silicon Valley liberals subject to the worst sort of groupthink. Progressives dont like them because they are colossal profit-making enterprises. Thats why there is some chance Washington might get together and, along the lines Warren proposes, effectively outlaw the business models of some of the most successful and iconic American companies. Warrens idea to cleave off the platforms of the tech companies and have them run as platform utilities separate from the rest of their business is unworkable and justified by a series of errors and misjudgments. Its not true, as Warren asserts, that the antitrust suit against Microsoft in the 1990s opened up the space for Google and Facebook to thrive. Microsoft never got the internet and left the space open for Google and Facebook all by itself, as often happens with a large incumbent wedded to its business model. She charges that the tech companies use mergers to limit competition and cites Facebooks acquisition of WhatsApp. Its hard to discern the harm here. When the social network bought it, WhatsApp was available for a fee. Now its free, and more people use it than ever. Whats the problem? She calls out Google for allegedly killing off its competitors by burying them in its searches. Its not obvious that Google actually does this, although its search business inherently involves constantly making choices to try to best serve what people want to see. No government regulator is going to improve Googles searches, or is qualified to even try. Warrens proposal is obviously formulated without taking any account of the interests of consumers, who are the ones who made the tech companies so large. Why does Google provide for free a tool without which its impossible to imagine contemporary life? Because it can monetize it with advertising. Without the advertising, which Warren insists should be a separate business, Google has no incentive to devote engineers to improving its search engine. By the same token, no one will welcome iPhones that no longer come with or sell Apple apps. And would people really appreciate having to go to two different Amazons, one just a platform, one selling Amazon products? This is all silly, as are the mergers that Warren pledges to reverse, including Amazons acquisition of Whole Foods. Amazon doesnt have anything close to a monopoly in food retail. Rather than taking over the sector, its spurring investment and innovation. The nations largest supermarket chain, Kroger, was slated to increase its spending on investment 200 percent in 2018. The tech giants arent stand-pat companies. Amazon alone spent more than $22 billion on investment in 2017. The development of autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence and voice recognition wouldnt be nearly as advanced if it werent for the research of the tech companies. The behemoth of yesteryear, General Electric, isnt making these investments. None of this is to deny genuine concerns about tech companies. They need rules for content that honor the spirit of the First Amendment, and perhaps there should be tighter regulations around privacy. But any real offenses should be addressed with fixes directed at specific conduct, rather than with a massive politically imposed reorganization. Thats a very bad idea, and if you had any doubt, watch it get a respectful hearing from both sides in Washington. comments.lowry@nationalreview.com Re: Theres a crisis on the border, but it isnt the surge, by columnist Elaine Ayala, Metro, March 7: A migration figure of 76,000 people in one month is not a crisis? Oh, so maybe we do not need borders just ask Beto ORourke, who said he would like to remove all border walls to manage this vast influx of people. And that number reflects only those people Border Patrol agents apprehended. Yes, Ms. Ayala, we do have a crisis! Start with diseases coming back into this country that were eradicated here years ago. Start with the huge financial burden our state and country face daily. Start with the manpower needed to address the asylum-seekers. Start with the drugs apprehended daily at border crossings, which do not include those drugs not apprehended at the other 1,300 miles unprotected by walls, barriers or fences. Finally, ask Border Patrol agents, who are tasked with the daily job along the border of protecting our country, if they think there is no crisis. This is a bona fide mess. We cannot, as a nation, allow 76,000 people or more in a month to enter and expect there will be no crises. Journalists love to report unfair treatment of detained people, but the focus should be on controlled entry, as the Border Patrol and most Americans would like to see. Without a border, we are no longer a country. Donna Howington Stand by, own taxes Re: Tax relief from those who broke system? Opinion, March 3: State Rep. Trey Martinez Fischers opinion piece was filled more with party rhetoric than viable solutions. Yes, Austin throws out sweetheart deals, but locally the most critical, as the author suggests deals are also sweetened. Affluent families owning acreage getting ag exemptions when they produce nothing but eventually sell to a developer (who also gets a tax incentive) is a huge issue. With 75 percent of my tax burden going to the Northside Independent School District while I have no children, I would also like to see a sliding scale on usage when determining tax rates. I should not pay the same as someone with five children in school. Lastly, stop with inflated assessments. I want a politician to raise the tax rate and attach his name to it. If you feel we need more revenue, make the call, stand by it and own it. Steve Goetsch Week without him In a recent album, Miley Cyrus sings a song titled Week Without You, wherein she muses about how she would feel and what she would do were she to spend a week without her domineering, cheating boyfriend. As she runs through the possibilities, her outlook brightens and her attitude improves. This got me thinking about how things might be if we had a week where all the news outlets would not report on Donald Trumps tweets and everyone would block his tweets. Do you think civility might make an appearance? Is it possible that people with opposing ideas would try to listen to each other? Might people take a break from seeing each other as stereotypes? Could Congress get things done in a bipartisan manner? Would facts once again matter? Would late-night comedians actually have to come up with their own material instead of having Donald Trump write the jokes for them? Why not give it a try? What have we got to lose? Bob Ridewood Conservative advice Rich Lowry of National Review a leading voice on the American right, or what some call Trumps party suggests that moderate Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio is independent and pragmatic (One Democrat who knows better, Feb. 24). Most would agree and then claim Sen. Bernie Sanders Medicare-for-all or Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortezs Green New Deal are too expensive. Will conservatives be satisfied not assisting Americans, such as the more than 50 million without insurance, the millions who cant take their children to the doctor, or the elderly who cant afford their prescriptions? A leading cause for bankruptcies is the cost and the lack of health care. Will conservatives also be satisfied with the U.S. not joining the world in the Paris climate agreement, which stands with our grandchildren by combating hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, wildfires and other natural disasters caused by climate change? Sherrod Brown who says he wont run for president would have been a huge improvement over what we have now, but shouldnt we try for more than conservative improvements? Shouldnt we go with more progressive goals from Democrats with vision of a better tomorrow rather than what Lowry would prefer? Adam Castillo Invest in democracy Out of curiosity, I counted the emails in my inbox from the past five days, all of which, it turned out, were seeking money and all of which had come from responsible, politically oriented groups. There were 104 emails from 29 different organizations. They were all seeking money for the same hot topic(s) for that week. It was apparent that over the course of time one or more of them had all sold or traded my personal information with one another, because I had never given it to, nor contacted, any of the 29 organizations. When do we get ahead of the curve and get out of the money-raising business to do the business of the people? I saw a statistic the other day that said our elected representatives have to spend about 70 percent of their time in office just raising money. This is lunacy! Is it any wonder why those with deep pockets, corporations and folks like the Koch brothers and George Soros have the ears of our politicians? Is it any wonder why people hold politicians and Washington, as the symbol of all of this, in such disgust? If we are ever to reclaim our democracy and establish what the average Joe Blow wants, there are two things we must do, both of which are nonpartisan, or at least ought to be: (1) stop gerrymandering, and (2) get the money out of politics by limiting the amounts that can be given per entity and making all gifts visible. Thats where my money is going in the future. J. Douglas Storment MDC secretary-general Douglas Mwonzora has declared null and void any suspensions and expulsions made ahead of the partys May elective congress. This means the structures put in place at the 2014 congress, at which he soundly beat party leader Nelson Chamisa for the post of secretary-general and are seen as loyal to him, will be the ones to choose the new leadership of the party. The opposition party hopes that the election of a new leadership would calm the discord which has held sway since the death of founding president Morgan Tsvangirai in February last year, which led to the rise of Chamisa. Mwonzora, who is expected to challenge Chamisa for the position of party president, wrote to all provincial, district and ward chairpersons amid allegations that there were senior officials tampering with the structures to impose their preferred people who will vote at the congress. Please, be advised that the national standing committee has directed that after the setting of main congress dates by the national council, no expulsion or suspension of members shall be valid without the specific approval of the standing committee, the letter, dated March 21, reads. He also clarified the party position on members who stood as independent candidates, that they are not eligible to contest, while those that supported them can stand. In several constituencies, the party lost to Zanu PF after fielding multiple candidates. Please, further note that the only people disqualified from contesting congress positions are, (a) those who stood as independents, (b) those who stood as candidates for other political parties. Specifically, it was ruled that those who allegedly supported independent candidates or other candidates are not covered by this disqualification, the letter, which was copied to Chamisa, national chairperson Tabitha Khumalo and organising secretary Amos Chibaya, added. Canvassing for support has reached fever pitch in the MDC, with the majority openly endorsing Chamisa, although there is fear of another surprise victory for Mwonzora, who will enter the race as an underdog. Chibaya said preparations for the congress were on course. The branch congresses have now been completed and the ward congresses in the 1 958 wards across the country taking place this weekend. By Sunday, 24 March 2019, there will be newly-elected ward executives across the length and breadth of Zimbabwe, he said. District congresses are slated for March 29 to 31, while the provincial congresses will take place from April 7 to 16, 2019, starting with Matabeleland South province. The process so far has gone on peacefully and without incident. Notwithstanding misleading Press reports of chaos, our congress is living true to the democratic culture and character as encapsulated in chapter 4 of the MDC constitution. Chibaya said the May 24 to 26 congress would prioritise propositions and not positions. NewsDay Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News By Marshall Auerback, a market analyst and commentator.Produced by Economy for All, a project of the Independent Media Institute Airbus is considering whether or not to shift the assembly process of its latest generation of A330 planes to China as part of a bid to increase its market share in the worlds fastest-growing civil aviation market. The European multinational is following a trend started by Boeing, which recently opened a new completion plant in China. On the face of it, the decision by the two companies (which dominate the civilian aviation market) makes sense: build where your biggest customer lives, especially as China does not yet have a fully homegrown civil aviation industry ready to compete globally. The benefits are many, including the goodwill and esteem of the country that would be buying these planes. In the long term, however, that might prove to be a costly miscalculation. Based on its recent history (hereand here), it wont take long for China to catch up and largely displace both companies domestically in Beijings home aviation market, as well as seizing a large chunk of the corporate duopolys global market share. Airbus and Boeing could therefore be making short-term decisions with negative long-term consequences for their future profitability. Given Chinas formidable economic advancement, none of this should come as a surprise to either Airbus or Boeing. Nor should it shock Western governments. The problem is that everybody has historically been guided by the naive assumption that simply admitting China to organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) would induce Beijing to, in the words of Philip Pan, eventually bend to what were considered the established rules of modernization: Prosperity would fuel popular demands for political freedom and bring China into the fold of democratic nations. Or the Chinese economy would falter under the weight of authoritarian rule and bureaucratic rot. China has unquestionably modernized, but its politically illiberal, dirigistepolity has, if anything, massively moved in the opposite direction, strengthened by that very modernization process that has done anything but falter. Furthermore, the country has many aims and goals that are antithetical to the long-term prosperity of Western companies and economies (as the European Union is beginning to recognize). Boeing and Airbus might simply become the latest Western sacrificial lambs. Beijing has explicitly targeted wide-bodied aircrafts as one of its 10 new priority sectors for import substitution in its Made in China 2025 document, so whatever short-term gains Airbus and Boeing receive in terms of securing additional orders from China could well be undermined longer-term. The resultant technology transfers and lower labor costs will almost certainly give Beijing a quantum leap toward competing directly and ultimately displacing both companies. Given the merger with McDonnell Douglas, Boeing will continue its march toward effectively becoming a branch of the U.S. Department of Defense, as its civilian market share crashes, but Airbus doesnt really have the luxury of a military alternative, given the relative paucity of European defense expenditures. As if Boeing needed any further problems, the 737 fiasco represents the latest in a series of setbacks for the company. Boeings 737 global recall, coming on the heels of the initial launch problems of the 787 Dreamliner some six years ago (where the demoduralization of production meant that Boeing could not fully account for stress transmission and loading at the system level, as Gary Pisano and Willy Shih write), together illustrate the dangers of spreading manufacturing too far across the globe: Engineers, notes CUNY fellow Jon Rynn, need to kick the tires of the new production processes they design. So while a market may be global, production and the growth of production take place most efficiently in relatively close geographic quarters. American companies such as Boeing consistently underestimate the value of closely integrating R&D and manufacturing, while underplaying the risks of separating them (as recent events have demonstrated again to the companys cost). By deciding to expand its A330 production in China, Airbus looks poised to repeat Boeings error, a potential miscalculation that most European Union companies have hitherto largely avoided, because the EU has prioritized domestic manufacturing/discouraged offshoring more than its U.S. counterparts (in regard to the loss of U.S. manufacturing jobs attributable to China, the American Economic Review paper by Justin R. Pierce and Peter K. Schott specifically notes that there was no similar reaction in the European Union, where policy did not change). Beijing itself has historically balanced its purchases from both major civil aviation manufacturers to ensure that it does not rely too heavily on one aircraft supplier, which means that Airbus will likely benefit from the void created by the 737 recall. All the more reason why the European conglomerate should be wary of following the pied piper-like expansion into China. (The 737 recall also complicates resolution of the U.S.-China trade conflict, which had appeared closer to resolution in light of Beijings proposal to buy an additional $1.2tn in U.S. exports over six years. Boeing aircraft purchases featured heavily on Beijings shopping list.) But the longer-term challenges relate to Chinas economic development path and its corresponding move up the high-tech curve, which have largely been characterized by mercantilist policies of protection and heavy government subsidy. In this regard, the Chinese state has followed a national development strategy first outlined in the mid-19th century by the German economist Friedrich List, who argued that the national government should play a crucial role in promoting, guiding, and regulating the process of national economic advancement. Protectionism, List argued, should play a role here as well during the countrys catch up phase of technological development. List wrote the analysis against a historic backdrop where Germany was beginning to challenge the dominant economic power of its time, the United Kingdom. So the defenders of Beijing might well point to his work to show that there is nothing new about using the state as a principal instrument to accelerate economic development and innovation. However, List was analyzing two capitalist economies operating within the context of a 19th-century gold standard global financial system, which invariably circumscribed the scope of state involvement (the finite availability of gold reserves limiting fiscal policy options). By contrast, today the global economy operates under a fiat currency system, and what therefore distinguishes Chinas economic domestic development from its 19th century predecessors is the sheer scale of fiscal resources it can deploy in the furtherance of its economic (and military) objectives. Some of these objectives might not be so benign to the West longer-term. Which points to another consideration for the West: for all of its supposed embrace of capitalism, China is still primarily a state-dominated economy, which eschews the disciplines of a free market economy. This means it has the capacity (and ideological predisposition) to use the national fiscal policy as a loss leader, absorbing losses well beyond what would be tolerated in an economy dominated by private enterprise (private companies, of course, can go bust). Beijing underwrites its designated national champions by relying on a combination of subsidies (some disguised, as they flow through state-backed investment funds and the financial sectors) and Buy China preferences to develop Chinese products, even though these policies are contrary to the rules of WTO membership, which China eagerly joined in 2001. As the economist Brad Setser argues, various parts of the Chinese state compete, absorb losses, and then consolidat[e ] around the successful firms. Other countries [might] worry about the [scale of the cumulative] losses, notes Setser, but not the Chinese government, which simply socializes the losses at the national level, and writes them off. In this regard, Boeing and Airbus would do well to consider Chinas experience in the solar industry. Designating this as another strategic sector for growth in the 1990s, Chinese solar companies, with the explicit backstop of the state, ultimately raised enough funding via debt to build sufficient solar capacity for the world three times over. The overinvestment ultimately killed the cash flows of major Western competitors and knocked them out of the business, leaving the market free for China to dominate. Commenting on the trend, Scientific American highlighted that between 2008 and 2013, Chinas fledgling solar-electric panel industry dropped world prices by 80 percent, a stunning achievement in a fiercely competitive high-tech market. China had leapfrogged from nursing a tiny, rural-oriented solar program in the 1990s to become the globes leader in what may soon be the worlds largest renewable energy source. Here was a classic case of state-guided/supported commercial companies receiving benefits that went far beyond anything in, say, Korea or Taiwan, or even Japan in the earlier part of their development. Now this trend is manifesting itself across the entire spectrum of the Chinese guided economy, including agricultural equipment, industrial machinery, telecommunications, AI, computer chips, and civil aviation. In another disturbing parallel that Boeing and Airbus would do well to consider, [t]he timeline of Chinas rise began in the late 1990s when Germany, overwhelmed by the domestic response to a government incentive program to promote rooftop solar panels, provided the capital, technology and experts to lure China into making solar panels to meet the German demand, according to Scientific American. Much like the German solar companies, which shipped valuable manufacturing and technological expertise to China, to sustain demand, Boeing and Airbus could well be signing their economic death warrants by agreeing to offshore increasing amounts of production in China to sustain their global market shares (aided and abetted by their more market-oriented governments, which frown on the idea of national industrial policy). The same thing is happening in wind power in China, which is expected to see offshore wind capacity grow from 2 gigawatts last year to 31 gigawatts in the next decade. Chinas expansion here has already forced Siemens and Gamesa to merge to cope with the rising competitive challenge. As far as aviation itself goes, Setser makes the point that China may cut into the United States future exports by building its own competitor to the 737 and also cut into Europes future exports if Airbus decides to build the A330 in China and China buys Made in China Rolls-Royce engines for the C929 and the A330. Even if this allows the duopoly to maintain its dominance in global civil aviation, it is hard to see how shifting manufacturing production of aircraft components to China to get orders constitutes a win for the U.S. or European workers who are already being displaced. And Boeings weak-kneed response to the 737 crisis will likely exacerbate the companys problems going forward. The bottom line is that both Western governments and Western corporations have persistently underestimated the power of Chinas economic development model, and the corresponding economic threat that it poses to the Wests own affluence. The usual criticism leveled against the Chinese growth model is that a country that subsidizes its industries ends up with inefficient industries, because heavily protected local firms are shielded from global competition, ultimately leaving the country that resorts to protectionism with inferior products. The idea of national champions, built up via state dirigisme, according to classic liberal economic doctrine, ultimately ensures that economic efficiency and commercial considerations get squeezed out. Rent-seeking and corruption become institutionalized, goes the argument, so these national champions ultimately will not be able to compete in the global marketplace. That was certainly the assumption of Milton Friedman, who called the Chinese Communist Partys state-driven strategy an open invitation to corruption and inefficiency. By contrast, according to Defense and the National Interest, the governing assumptions of capitalist economies is that [t]he discipline of the marketplace, not the state, is better suited to choose winners and knock out losers who cannot offer the prices or quality or features of their competitors. China represents the ultimate repudiation of these seemingly ironclad economic laws. The countrys success has come across a slew of industries: clean tech, notably wind and solar power, internet companies (despite overwhelming censorship, China has corporate behemoths, such as Alibaba, or Baidu, which rival Google in scale and scope), and more recently, in the telecommunications sector (where Huawei has clearly benefited from Buy China preferences created by the state via its state-owned telecommunications enterprises and now is considered to be the global leader in 5G telephony). In practice, therefore, there is no reason why the same model cannot work with regard to civil aviation even as Airbus and Boeing eagerly provide the rope with which they may hang their respective companies in the future. Someone Challenges People To Google Florida Man Plus Their Birthday, Here Are 30 Hilarious Responses Bored Panda How to green the worlds deserts and reverse climate change Allan Savory , YouTube (furzy). From 2013. LA County Halts Use of Popular Weed Killer on County Property NBC China? North Korea Brexit Brazil and Russia: Divergence and Convergence CME Group (furzy) AMLO Takes a Hard Right Turn in Mexican Banking Conference Bloomberg New Cold War Syraqistan Brown University Becomes First Ivy League School to Pass BDS Resolution The Forward (martha r) Democratic Hopefuls Reject AIPAC Real News Network Piss Off Washingtons Power Players, Tune Into this Conference on the Israeli Lobbys Impact on American Policy. Stream It Online Friday, or Access It Later for a Greater Grasp of the Issues than Most in Congress Have DownWithTyranny! U.S. warns it can act against people helping Iran evade energy sanctions Reuters U.S. accuses Iran of plotting to restart nuclear weapons program Politico Big Brother is Watching You Watch Trump Transition Kushner to cooperate with Judiciary document request The Hill 2020 Maryland General Assembly Approves Bill For $15 Minimum Wage By 2025 Huffington Post (martha r) Fake News How the Press That Sold the Iraq War Got Away With It Matt Taibbi, Rolling Stone (UserFriendly) Wall surrounding tank farm at charred Deer Park plant breaches Houston Chronicle (martha R) The catastrophic petrochemical fire is going from bad to worse. Ecological devastation is unfolding and will have long lasting impact on our health, environment, and economy. #WorldWaterDay #DeerParkFire #SacrificeZones https://t.co/J0yEYSjUKb Sema (@_SemaHernandez_) March 22, 2019 Owning a Car Will Soon Be as Quaint as Owning a Horse New York Times. Resilc: Another prediction from Brooklyn, like HILLIARY WINS! Trump Taps Fed Critic Stephen Moore for Board Seat New York Times. UserFriendly: lol 2 GOP doves on the Fed? Dashcam Video Shows Tesla Steering Toward Lane Divider Again arstechnica Cramer: Im skeptical about Lyft as a longer-term investment CNBC. Its oversubscribed at a $23 billion valuation. Yet another recession warning just flashed red a Treasury yield curve just inverted for the first time since 2007 Business Insider (David L) Class Warfare Antidote du jour. Tracie H: Yes, I confess, we are only our kitties keepersTHEY are the primary residents, and we lowly humans are but their loyal subjects. What to most folks is a dining table, to Tinkerbell, E.B. White, Willow, Sinbad, Haiku (missing in this particular shot), Sherlock, and Pixie something more like a lovely chaise lounge, so weve made it a little softer for them. And a bonus from Richard: Where do I apply to be an alligator?https://t.co/bDEv7u7X9B Rob Manuel (@robmanuel) March 21, 2019 And another from martha r: (Natural News) As Big Techs censorship of conservatives becomes ever more flagrant and overt, the old arguments about protecting the sanctity of the modern public square are now invalid. Our right to freely engage in public discourse through speech is under sustained attack, necessitating a vigorous defense against the major social media and internet platforms. (Article by Donald Trump Jr. republished from TheHill.com) From shadowbans on Facebook and Twitter, to demonetization of YouTube videos, to pulled ads for Republican candidates at the critical junctures of election campaigns, the list of violations against the online practices and speech of conservatives is long. I certainly had my suspicions confirmed when Instagram, which is owned by Facebook, accidentally censored a post I made regarding the Jussie Smollett hoax, which consequently led to me hearing from hundreds of my followers about how theyve been having problems seeing, liking or being able to interact with my posts. Many of them even claimed that theyve had to repeatedly refollow me, as Instagram keeps unfollowing me on their accounts. While nothing about Big Techs censorship of conservatives truly surprises me anymore, its still chilling to see the proof for yourself. If it can happen to me, the son of the president, with millions of followers on social media, just think about how bad it must be for conservatives with smaller followings and those who dont have the soapbox or media reach to push back when theyre being targeted? Thanks to a brave Facebook whistleblower who approached James OKeefes Project Veritas, we now know that Mark Zuckerbergs social media giant developed algorithms to deboost certain content, limiting its distribution and appearance in news feeds. As you probably guessed, this stealth censorship was specifically aimed at conservatives. Facebook appears to have deliberately tailored its algorithm to recognize the syntax and style popular among conservatives in order to deboost that content. Mainstream media, SJW (Social Justice Warrior) and red pill all terms that conservatives often use to express themselves were listed as red flags, according to the former Facebook insider. Facebook engineers even cited BlazeTV host Lauren Chens video criticizing the social justice movement as an example of the kind of red pills that users just arent allowed to drop anymore. Mainstream conservative content was strangled in real time, yet fringe leftists such as the Young Turks enjoy free rein on the social media platform. Despite the occasional brave gesture, politicians have been far too sluggish in recognizing the extent of the problem. But the Republican Party and the conservative movement are becoming more vigilant against the suppression of our speech, as we saw at last weekends Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Silicon Valley lobbyists have splashed millions of dollars all over the Washington swamp to play on conservatives innate faith in the free-market system and respect for private property. Even as Big Tech companies work to exclude us from the town square of the 21st century, theyve been able to rely on misguided conservatives to carry water for them with irrelevant pedantry about whether the First Amendment applies in cases of social media censorship. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) has been making a name for himself as a Republican prepared to stand up to Big Tech malfeasance since his time as Missouris attorney general. He delivered a tour de force interview with The Wall Street Journals Kimberly Strassel in front of the CPAC crowd, one that provided a clear-eyed assessment of the ongoing affront to the freedoms of conservative speech and expression. Hawley demolished the absurd notion that conservative principles preclude taking action to ensure free debate online simply because Big Tech firms the most powerful corporations in the world are private companies. Hawley pointed out that Big Tech companies already enjoy sweetheart deals under current regulations that make their malfeasance a matter of public concern. Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, for instance, allows them to avoid liability for the content that users post to their platforms. To address this problem, Hawley proposed adding a viewpoint neutrality requirement for platforms that benefit from Section 230s protections, which were originally enacted to protect the internet as a forum for a true diversity of political discourse. Google and Facebook should not be a law unto themselves, Hawley declared. They should not be able to discriminate against conservatives. They should not be able to tell us we need to sit down and shut up! Its high time other conservative politicians started heeding Hawleys warnings, because the logical endpoint of Big Techs free rein is far more troubling than conservative meme warriors losing their Twitter accounts. As were already starting to see, what starts with social media censorship can quickly lead to banishment from such fundamental services as transportation, online payments and banking. Left unchecked, Big Tech and liberal activists could construct a private social credit system not unlike what the communists have nightmarishly implemented in China that excludes outspoken conservatives from wide swaths of American life simply because their political views differ from those of tech executives. There is no conservative principle that even remotely suggests we are obligated to adopt a laissez-faire attitude while the richest companies on earth abuse the power we give them to put a thumb on the scale for our political enemies. If anything, our love of the free market dictates that we must do whatever is necessary to ensure that the free marketplace of ideas remains open to all. Read more at: TheHill.com (Natural News) An emotional support animal (ESA) is any animal that is kept by a person with a disability. They may vary in species, shapes, and sizes, but they provide all kinds of therapeutic benefits for their owners. ESAs are different from service animals. Emotional support animals can be any kind of critter, while service animals are restricted to dogs and certain miniature horses that have undergone special training to help their disabled owners with certain tasks. Service animals can be trained to calm down people who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other serious disorders. In contrast, an ESA does not undergo any sort of special training. Instead, it achieves its therapeutic value by staying with its owner. Experts say that these animals can improve the symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, stress and other psychological issues. ESAs can provide their owners with hope and purpose by merely being there to be petted when needed. Scientific research on the benefits and potentials of ESAs is sparse. But there is plenty of evidence in the form of anecdotes about owners who rely on their ESAs for emotional stability. It is used more on a case-to-case basis depending on the specific circumstances of an individual, said Jessy Warner-Cohen of the Long Island Jewish Medical Center. (Related: A primer on herbal aids for your pets.) Are snakes (and other ESAs) allowed on a plane? The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 considers ESAs to be assistance animals. Both ESAs and service animals must be treated as reasonable accommodation for anyone who is looking for a place to stay. That means a no pets policy cannot be used as a legal reason to reject an applicant who has an ESA and a signed letter from a doctor that confirms the person needs his or her animal. Landlords are also not allowed to charge the tenant for extra costs associated with the animal. The Act has not set any restrictions on the breed or species of an animal that can serve as an ESA. In comparison, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifies dogs and mini horses as the only species allowed to be trained and categorized as service animals. If an owner wants to bring his or her ESA or service animal aboard a plane, he or she must adhere to the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Animals that are too big or potentially dangerous to other passengers are not allowed in the cabin. Certain animals are also not given an automatic pass aboard an airliner. So yes, United can in fact refuse to let snakes on a plane. Is that animal really for therapeutic support? There has been a boom in demand for ESAs during these past few years. The surge is linked to the 2013 announcement by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that reminded landlords to assist people with disabilities, as well as the ability to get ESA letters from online sources. There are no federal agencies that regulate registration certificates and identification cards for ESAs. That makes it easy for unscrupulous types to sell fake documentation to anyone who can afford it. Airlines and landlords are not the only ones who are trying to get on top of the ESA boom. College campuses are figuring out how to deal with students who are bringing their ESAs with them. Experts recommend that the federal government should set stricter regulations for ESAs. Among other benefits, these regulations could reinforce the legitimacy of these animals as means of therapy for persons with disabilities. Sources include: HealthLine.com UnitedSpinal.org [PDF] Transportation.gov (Natural News) Researchers who are seeking out signs of alien life can now compare their findings with the results of earlier studies thanks to an online tool developed by the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Institute. The newly released research tool will allow people from around the world to contribute their evidence that we are not alone in this universe. Called Technosearch, the web tool is an electronic database that holds all of the searches conducted by SETI since its founding in 1960. It can be accessed online, and it allows researchers to upload their latest findings alongside the earlier studies. The voluminous database is the brainchild of SETI co-founder Jill Tarter. If you have ever read the science fiction novel Contact written by Carl Sagan or seen the 1997 film adaptation of the same name, the fictional character Ellie Arroway is based on Tarter. Tarter laid the foundations for Technosearch when she was just a graduate student. She began keeping a humble search archive, and the contents grew over the years. Some of the original papers were presented at conferences or appear in obscure journals that are difficult for newcomers to the SETI field to access, Tarter remarked in a statement released by SETI during Technosearchs debut. Im delighted that we now have a tool that can be used by the entire community and a methodology for keeping it current. (Related: Towering blades of ice in Europa could get in the way of our search for alien life, scientists warn.) A new generation of researchers compiled the data accumulated by the original SETI team SETI spokespersons explained that they developed Technosearch to fulfill the current requirement for an accessible resource that contains the results of hundreds of searches performed over the past six decades. They also expressed their hope that every member of the community will do their part to ensure the accuracy of their new research tool by submitting the latest findings. They developed the database with the help of interns from the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program of the National Science Foundation. The interns were led by Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) researcher Jason Wright, who specialized in examining exoplanets and stars. Ive become convinced that Technosearch will become an important instrument for astronomers and amateurs interested in exploring the cosmos for indications of other technological civilizations, said Andrew Garcia, one of the REU students who studied under Tarter in 2018. We cant know where to look for evidence tomorrow if we dont know where we have already looked. New web tool will keep track of current and future SETI searchers Technosearch was designed to sift through dozens of SETI searchers. In addition to bringing up the contents of a published paper, it can also show the details of the instrument used in the study, the details of the strategy used in the search, and any notes made by the observers. During release, the database contained 140 different SETI searches. These were divided into 38 studies that used optical instruments and 102 studies conducted with radio telescopes. In addition, users can upload any new or unlisted searches to the database. This feature not only ensured Technosearch could be kept up-to-date with the latest information, but also allowed the web tool to take over the onerous duty of tallying and recording all of the different searches. When Frank Drake conducted the very first SETI search in 1960, he spurred amateur and professional researchers alike to help him look for any evidence of life in outer space. Technosearch will make it easier for the current and future generations of researchers to check and double-check their findings. Sources include: LiveScience.com TechnoSearch.SETI.org SETI.org Many living systems share a fundamental capacity for cooperation. Plants and animals are made up of billions of cells that communicate with one another, carry out specific tasks and share their resources. Many single-celled microorganisms cooperate in similarly versatile ways: they form communities and exchange useful genes and resources among one other. The microbe Myxococcus xanthus is particularly cooperative. Found in soils all over the world, it has been used by scientists as a model organism to study microbial development and cooperation. The cells of this predatory bacterium form cooperative groups that swarm together and hunt other microorganisms within the soil. In order to move as a group, they secrete lubricating substances and cast out appendages that attach to the surrounding surface and other cells, moving them forward as they retract these appendages. When food becomes scarce, thousands of these bacteria aggregate into a fruiting body and form resting spores, allowing them to withstand hunger and drought. Closely related, yet very different Researchers previously had theoretical reasons to expect that cooperative groups of microbes in nature might generally be socially homogeneous, as this would prevent conflict between cells from undermining cooperation. Genetically distinct individuals from different groups have been shown to often avoid, obstruct, and even combat each other. "Our knowledge about the genetic composition within cooperative groups of these social bacteria in nature used to be very limited," says Sebastien Wielgoss, a lecturer in the research group of Professor Gregory Velicer, Institute for Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich. With their colleagues, Wielgoss and Velicer have more closely examined the genetic relationships between members of the same M. xanthus fruiting body group in the soil. They used one of the largest collections of M. xanthus strains worldwide, kept by Velicer in his laboratory freezers. In a study recently published in Science, the researchers used genetic analyses to show that while cooperative groups of the soil bacterium M. xanthus do consist of closely related cells, the number of genetic types and varieties of social behavior found within individual fruiting-body groups are unexpectedly high. The researchers inferred that these collections of diversified cell lines can remain intact for hundreds of generations. Selection on social genes For their study, the researchers investigated groups of cells that descended recently from a common ancestor. Mutation formed various socially different, but closely related, cell lines within these groups, with lines differing in how fast they swarm or how many spores they produce within a fruiting body. Some forms of diversity pose a threat to group productivity. For example, individual bacteria can exhibit "cheating" behavior: they contribute little to the group while exploiting its other members and lowering group function. "However, behavioral studies with these same groups have not found such socially disruptive cheating", Wielgoss said. In contrast, while the majority of groups are highly genetically and socially diverse, the observed diversity does not appear to undermine cooperative functions at the group level. The researchers attribute this high diversity of behavioral patterns to an evolutionary selection that focuses on a small number of "social" genes that control the social habits of the bacteria. Mutations in these "selection hotspots" favored by natural selection cause a variety of behavioral changes, yielding a diverse society of cells with varying levels of spore production and swarming speed. The researchers speculate that distinct lines in the same group likely also differ in their cooperative hunting abilities, although this was not tested in this study. Wielgoss explained that natural selection may favor some combinations of diversified cell lines over other combinations or even over homogeneous groups: "Cell groups with a large behavioral repertoire may respond to environmental changes more effectively. They may often be more evolutionarily successful than homogeneous groups of cells that all behave in the same way. 'Cultural diversity' appears to be rather frequent among bacterial social groups." Understanding cell cooperation Microorganisms are omnipresent. They fulfill important functions in our everyday lives: as helpers in our intestinal flora, as pathogens or as agents in food production. Many combine into cooperative groups of cells in nature, too. The researchers believe that these new insights into the genetic and behavioral properties of cooperative soil bacteria may help us to understand cooperation within other types of bacteria as well, including the important pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa that infects immuno-compromised patients and causes serious long-term infections. (Jena, Germany) The Italian Crested Newt - Triturus carnifex - eats anything and everything it can overpower. Earthworms, mosquito larvae and water fleas are on its menu, but also snails, small fish, and even its own offspring. A research team led by Dr Egon Heiss of Friedrich Schiller University in Jena (Germany) has studied the newt's chewing behavior and has made an astounding discovery. Triturus carnifex is an amphibian of the order Caudata and is a true salamander. "According to the textbooks, amphibians swallow their prey whole, but we have been able to refute this," says Heiss. Together with doctoral student Daniel Schwarz and Dr Nicolai Konow of the University of Massachusetts, Heiss has succeeded in proving that the crested newts do actually chew their prey, but in a way that is different from that of most other land-based vertebrates. The researchers have now presented their findings in the specialist publication Journal of Experimental Biology (doi:10.1242/jeb.189886). Palatal teeth kill prey "This newt uses what are called its palatal teeth to kill its prey and also to break it up," explains Heiss. This means that the jaw teeth are mainly used to catch or hold the prey. With the help of the tongue, the prey is then rubbed rhythmically against the palate. The palate is equipped with very sharp teeth, around 0.5 to one millimeter long, which are constantly replaced by new teeth. These teeth can, for example, tear open the extremely tough cuticula of fly maggots. "This kills the prey and, at the same time, helps the digestive secretions to take effect," says Heiss. For the newt, this is also a form of life insurance: some insect larvae have such a strong bite that they would be able to bore through the predator's body. The first impetus for the surprising research result came on a research visit to Antwerp (Belgium), when Nicolai Konow and Egon Heiss observed a newt feeding. The biologists were intrigued by the amphibian's head, jaw and tongue movements after it had seized its prey. "The newt actually appeared to be chewing," says Heiss. The researchers were able to obtain a clear idea of what was happening with the help of the X-ray video unit at the Institute of Zoology and Evolutionary Research of the University of Jena. Salamanders chew like primeval land-based vertebrates The newt's chewing behavior prompts the question of how it can be explained in the context of evolution. "We can assume that real palatal teeth were present in early land vertebrates, and we suspect that the 'tongue against palate' chewing mechanism, as seen in newts, is something that goes back to the early days of land-based vertebrates," says Heiss. Very similar chewing mechanisms can indeed be found in ancient mammals such as the echidna and the duckbilled platypus, but also in the manatee. Although in these animals the palatal teeth have been replaced by rough keratin structures, the creatures still rub their food against the palate. The tongue originated when vertebrates came onto land From the point of view of evolution, the move from water to land brought about change in animals' chewing apparatus. A key role is played by the tongue, which only developed after vertebrates left the water. It is crucial for enabling chewing, as it moves food to the right place in the mouth. "With fish, the water current helps to do this," explains Heiss. A similar change occurs in amphibian larvae; during metamorphosis, the gills of amphibians transform into a tongue when the larvae leave the water. The findings now presented are the first results from the research project 'Form, Function, and Evolution of Food Manipulation in Urodela', which is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and was launched at the beginning of 2017. The project runs until the end of 2019 and maybe during that time, Triturus carnifex will be persuaded to reveal more secrets. San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi died last month from the toxic effect of cocaine and alcohol on his already diseased heart, according to autopsy findings released Friday. While only traces of alcohol and cocaine were found in his blood, Medical Examiner Dr. Ellen Moffatt concluded they were enough to overstress Adachis heart, which was significantly weakened by hardening of the arteries. Alcohol measured blood alcohol was .01 percent and Dr. Moffatt said the amount of cocaine in his blood was too small to quantify. The official cause of his death was ruled an accident due to cocaine and alcohol toxicity, with heart disease a contributing factor. Moffatts notes confirmed that police finally were able to speak to Catalina, the Colombian national who called 911. Authorities were later unable to locate her for several weeks. The woman, according to Moffatts notes, recounted how Adachi seemed to be in his usual state of generally good health when they dined February 22 at 4 p.m., at a restaurant in North Beach. The woman said he had a glass or two of champagne with dinner, but soon began to suffer stomach pain and became sweaty. He asked his companion to pay the check so they could leave, the woman told authorities, but he refused to go to the hospital. They took a ride share back at the apartment where the two were staying, the woman told authorities. Adachi again refused to go to the hospital, saying his pain had happened a few times before and had gone away. Once in bed, she said, he was still sweating and suffering severe pain in his abdomen. He asked for an antacid but she ended up giving him Advil and then going to the store to get the antacid. Adachi soon was unresponsive and she called 911 at 5:43 p.m. The woman performed CPR at the apartment, as instructed, and he still had a pulse when paramedics arrived. Adachi was pronounced dead at 6:54 p.m. The autopsy showed he had a severe blockage of one of his coronary arteries, with several other arteries showing lessor blockages. Dr. Moffatt found evidence Adachi had suffered a heart attack earlier that day, but did not find it a factor in his death. Moffatt concluded alcohol and cocaine levels are most consistent with them having been taken at some point during the day, with metabolism occurring over the subsequent hours, and that his heart, with a significant amount of coronary artery disease and fibrosis already present, would have worked even harder with stimulant substances such as ethanol and cocaine in Mr. Adachi's system. At some point, most likely during the dinner, his already compromised heart could no longer sustain the amount of cardiac stress caused by these stimulant substances Moffatt found, with death resulting a few hours later. Police are aware of a series of pellet shootings in a South Bay neighborhood after several cars have been shot at. After a driver and her boyfriend in the Willow Glen area in San Jose posted on Facebook about their car being shot at by pellets, multiple people began sharing similar experiences. "A while back I had the same incident and got shot at as well," resident Abby Duran said. "One of my front windows was shot out." Residents in the Willow Glen area fear for the safety as they drive in their own neighborhood. "If it had been a second sooner, it would have hit him, or the driver window," resident Karina Mitchell said. Police say it is important to try and a description of the suspect or vehicle and to file a police report as soon as possible. A potentially deadly situation was diffused last month at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital. NBC Bay Area has learned that a convicted felon carrying a loaded 9 millimeter handgun and upwards of 80 rounds of ammunition managed to not only bring that firepower on to campus, but also gain access to the hospitals main facility, Building 5. "This actually was a very dangerous situation, and a significant threat to the public safety of the hospital," said Undersheriff Matthew Freeman, the second-highest ranking member of the San Francisco Sheriffs Department. Freeman said an immediate and deft response from deputies, who help provide security services on hospital grounds, ensured the suspect was taken into custody without incident. "They used time, distance and shielding which allowed them to render the situation safe," Freeman said. "So, were very pleased with the way this turned out." The peaceful outcome could have been very different. Sedric Reynolds, the 38-year-old suspect booked into San Francisco County Jail on Feb. 7, faces 14 charges ranging from possession of a firearm by a felon, to large capacity magazine activity and possessing a weapon in a courthouse or public building. Court documents shed some disturbing details on the events that led to Reynolds arrest. According to a Statement of the Facts in the motion to detain Reynolds without bond, prosecutors write that a witness, "Saw the Defendant point the handgun toward the doors in the hallway and ring the Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) doorbell to gain entrance." The suspect was then "unwittingly afforded admission" to the middle room of a sally port, the documents show, before ultimately being apprehended by deputies. Rachael Kagan, a spokesperson for the Department of Public Health and Zuckerberg SF General Hospital, said this incident proves the staff response, hospital messaging and other protocols work. "'We have really been working to drill down on, 'If you see something, say something,'" said Kagan. An emergency services nurse saw the threatening situation unfolding and contacted another witness, urging that person to call 911, "while he would inform uniformed deputies of the lurking danger," per court documents. One witness observed Reynolds "toting a black handgun in his left hand," while another described him as "speaking rapidly with dilated pupils," appearing "restless as well as paranoid." Kagan told NBC Bay Area that the suspect entered the building through a public entrance off 23rd Street, which only requires security clearance after 8 p.m. Once through that door, however, Kagan said Reynolds did get into another room after "buzzing for entrance, and then ducking behind someone who was coming out." The situation spawned a security risk assessment by the hospital, and immediate changes. Kagan said the interior room in the sally port now contains a camera as well as an intercom. The hospital also revised its 'Code Silver,' or active shooter policy, to include any incident that involves a weapon on campus. Freeman added the Sheriffs Department has a Chief Deputy Sheriff and a Sheriffs Captain that meet with the Department of Public Health, "on a weekly basis to discuss a myriad of issues," including security protocols. "Its a large campus, inner-city hospital and county trauma center," Freeman said, "which poses unique challenges that were presented with on a daily basis." In his 28-year-long career with the department, Freeman mentioned he cant recall a similar situation at SF General Hospital. A security threat Saturday morning at San Francisco International Airport led to the closure of some boarding areas and grounding of flights, according to an airport spokesman. The shutdown resulted when a loaded magazine was brought by a passenger through a security checkpoint around 6:35 a.m., airport duty manager Chris Morgan said. As a result, the boarding areas at security checkpoints F1 and F3 in Terminal 3 and checkpoint G in the International Terminal were closed for about an hour until law enforcement agents were able to locate and interview the passenger. Flights that were not already on the taxiway also were grounded while the search was conducted, Morgan said. The affected flights mostly involved United Airlines. Transportation Security Administration agents flagged the suspicious item in the passenger's bag at the security checkpoint but mistakenly pulled the wrong bag for inspection, allowing the passenger to proceed into the terminal with the loaded magazine, Morgan said. "The passenger was located, interviewed by law enforcement, cited and was allowed to continue to travel. Flights resumed normal operations after a 38 minute ground stop," TSA said in a statement. The airport was packed with people standing in lines. Many of them traveled into town for the Game Developer Conference in San Francisco and were waiting for the security checkpoints to reopen. "The pre-check line at SFO is no joke 5,000 people long," Andrew Forbes wrote on Twitter. Airport operations returned to normal around 9 a.m., Morgan said. While ammunition can be transported in checked luggage, it isn't allowed in carry-on baggage, according to the TSA. It wasn't immediately clear where officers located the magazine. Those traveling with firearm magazines and ammunition clips must secure them in a box or in a hard-sided case. "Unfortunately all these security systems every airport puts in place, the weakest link is the human factor," Aviation analyst Mike McCarron said. TSA said agents at SFO are private security personnel and the agency said it will work with their contractor to investigate what happened and how. Officials said the passenger was cited by San Francisco police. The TSA may impose a civil penalty of up to $13,333 per violation. A University of California, Berkeley student was robbed at gunpoint this week, campus police said. The student was walking with a friend on Shattuck Avenue near Addison Street about 2:30 a.m. Monday, when they were approached by two male suspects, UC police said. One of the suspects brandished a handgun and they demanded a backpack and shoulder bag from the victim, according to police. The suspects took the two items and fled westbound on Addison Street. Police have not released any information on any arrests in the case. President Donald Trump tweeted Friday that he has reversed his administration's decision to slap new sanctions on North Korea, with his press secretary explaining that the president "likes" leader Kim Jong Un and doesn't think they're necessary. It's unclear, however, which sanctions the president was referencing in his tweet, which took Treasury officials by surprise. "It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea," Trump wrote from his private club in Palm Beach, Florida. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" The White House did not immediately respond to questions about which sanctions Trump was referring to, or what large-scale sanctions were poised to be added to existing ones already imposed on North Korea. On Thursday, his administration did sanction two Chinese shipping companies suspected of helping North Korea evade sanctions the first targeted actions taken against Pyongyang since Trump and Kim met in Hanoi, Vietnam, last month for negotiations about North Korea's nuclear weapons program. In addition to Trump's talks with North Korea, the U.S. is knee-deep in delicate trade negotiations with China. A person familiar with the action told The Associated Press that Trump's tweet was not a reversal of existing sanctions, but that the president was talking about not going forward with additional large-scale sanctions on North Korea at this time. The person was not authorized to discuss the president's comments and spoke on condition of anonymity. It's unclear whether Trump's decision was related to North Korea's move on Friday to abruptly withdraw its staff from a liaison office with South Korea. The development is likely to put a damper on ties between the North and South and further complicate global diplomacy on North Korea's nuclear program. The withdrawal also is seen as a major setback for South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has sought improved relations with North Korea alongside the nuclear negotiations between the North and the United States. North Korea said it was withdrawing its staff under instructions from unspecified "higher-level authorities," according to a Unification Ministry statement. It didn't say whether the withdrawal would be temporary or permanent. South Korea called the North's decision regrettable and urged the North to return its staff to the liaison office soon. It was the latest example of Trump's governance-by-tweet, which has often sent agency heads scrambling, trying to figure out what he meant and trying to implement policy proclamations that have not gone through traditional vetting processes. That includes when Trump announced, via tweet, that transgender people would no longer be allowed to serve in the military. And it came hours after Trump made the official announcement that Islamic State-controlled territory in Syria had been reduced to zero from an airport tarmac, using a printed map he held upside-down, instead of a formal statement or ceremony. His North Korea tweet prompted reporters to bombard officials at the White House National Security Council and Treasury Department with questions. All declined to comment. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders issued a brief statement saying only that Trump "likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary." When the administration announced the sanctions on Thursday against the Chinese shipping companies, administration officials briefed reporters. They said Thursday's sanctions were evidence the U.S. was maintaining pressure on North Korea in an effort to coax its leader to give up his nuclear weapons program. The Treasury Department sanctioned Dalian Haibo International Freight Co. Ltd. and Liaoning Danxing International Forwarding Co. Ltd. for using deceptive methods to circumvent international and U.S. sanctions and the U.S. commitment to implementing existing U.N. Security Council resolutions. Calls to the two companies rang without response Friday or were answered by people who immediately hung up the phone. The Treasury Department, in coordination with the State Department and the U.S. Coast Guard, also updated a North Korea shipping advisory, adding dozens of vessels thought to be doing ship-to-ship transfers with North Korean tankers or exported North Korean coal in violation of sanctions. Two senior administration officials, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity to discuss U.S. policy on North Korea, said that illegal ship-to-ship transfers that violate U.S. and international sanctions have increased and that not all countries, including China, are implementing the restrictions. They said the deceptive practices include disabling or manipulating ship identification systems, repainting the names on vessels and falsifying cargo documents. A Lake County judge has ruled that the Chicago suburb of Deerfield can't enact a ban on assault weapons. The Chicago Tribune reports that Judge Luis Berrones on Friday issued a permanent injunction blocking the village from enforcing the April 2018 ordinance. The Deerfield board had imposed the ban on weapons such as the AR-15, which has been used in mass shootings. The ordinance allowed fines of up to $1,000 a day. Gun-rights groups filed lawsuits against the ban, arguing Deerfield officials violated a state law that prohibits municipalities from enacting such bans after 2013. On Friday plaintiff attorneys said they were grateful the court "recognized the ordinances were unenforceable." Village officials said they were reviewing the ruling and exploring options including an Illinois Appellate Court appeal. One woman was injured in a shooting that shut down the inbound Dan Ryan Expressway on Chicago's South Side for several hours early Friday. Authorities said the shooting took place at around 2:10 a.m., though it was unclear where exactly the shots were fired. Shortly thereafter, inbound lanes were closed from 79th to 75th Street, according to Illinois State Police, reopening several hours later, just after 4 a.m. According to Chicago police, the vehicle that was under fire came to a stop in the 0-100 block of West 59th Street. A 24-year-old woman, who was a passenger in the car when someone opened fire, sustained several gunshot wounds to the body and was taken to the University of Chicago Hospital in stable condition. The driver of the car, a 32-year-old man, was not injured in the shooting. Illinois State Police were not initially sure where the shooting took place, sending cars to investigate the scenes at 59th and State, 79th and the Dan Ryan, as well as at 87th and the Dan Ryan. Investigators found shell casings on the Dan Ryan, shutting down the inbound expressway between 79th and 75th streets. The closures caused a massive backup on the expressway during the morning rush hour, with Sky5 footage showing vehicles at a standstill for miles. Further details on the shooting were not immediately available. Authorities were on the scene for several hours and the investigation into the incident remained ongoing. What to Know The Statue of Liberty protester who climbed Lady Liberty last year was sentenced Tuesday to five-year probation and no jail time Therese Okoumou, who was found guilty last year, was rearrested in Texas in February Okoumou could face 30 days for the stunt that led to the evacuation of Liberty Island The protester who climbed the Statue of Liberty was sentenced to five years probation with no jail time Tuesday morning. Therese Okoumou was sentenced in a Lower Manhattan court after she was found guilty of misdemeanor charges in December after her protest climb of the Statue of Liberty July 4. The stunt led to the evacuation of Liberty Island. She faced up to 18 months in jail. Prosecutors recommended she get at least 30 days in jail followed by 3 years of probation. They argued that that prison time was necessary because Okoumou scaled structures three additional times following the July 4 incident, including a detention center in Texas for which she faces six months in jail. Okoumou arrived at the courthouse Tuesday with clear tape completely covering her face. Supporters rallied outside chanting "No hate. No fear. Immigrants are welcomed here" as she made her way to learn her fate. Okoumou wore a jacket with white lettering that read "I REALLY DO CARE" as she was escorted through the crowd. Okoumou's jacket could be interpreted as a reference to the one the first lady Melania Trump wore on her way to visit a facility for migrant children last June. The first lady's jacket read: "I really don't care, do u?" It is not the first time Okoumou wore an outfit apparently referencing the first lady's jacket. Once she reached the steps to enter the courthouse Tuesday morning, Okoumou signaled the crowd to continue chanting. The fact that Okoumou had her face completely covered with tape delayed getting her through security and to the courtroom. Once inside, the judge ordered her to remove it before they proceeded. She did. During her sentencing, Okoumou said that she does not belong in prison because she is not a criminal. She also said she will continue to fight in prison if she were to be sentenced to serve time. Earlier this month, judge changed the terms of her bail, ordering Okoumou to home detention to be enforced by electronic monitoring. As part of her sentencing, her electronic monitoring will be removed so she can go to work at an art institute. Prosecutors previously sent U.S. Magistrate Judge Gabriel Gorenstein a letter asking for a hearing to decide whether Okoumous bail should be revoked following her arrest in Texas on Feb. 20. Okoumou was arrested for criminal trespass in Travis County after she climbed a building and hung a banner that said Abolish ICE on it to protest federal immigration policy. Last month, Gorenstein, who presided over the sentencing, took a trip to the landmark accompanied by Okoumou to better appreciate the risks or hazards created by defendants conduct. Okoumou made the climb on Lady Liberty to protest President Donald Trump's immigration policies, specifically the separation of families at the southern border. The Diocese of Bridgeport has added the names of 10 priests to its list of clergy it says are credibly accused of sexual abuse. The Most Rev. Frank Caggiano, Bishop of Bridgeport, said in a letter posted on the Diocese's website, that the names are being added because of new circumstances surrounding their investigation. Caggiano said the diocesan Sexual Misconduct Review Board expanded its investigation to include allegations of abuse against priests who died years before the creation of the Board. He said the Diocese has also received new allegations of sexual abuse of minors that date back several years, and that they have also re-reviewed cases in which new information has become available. The Bridgeport Diocese made its original list of credibly-accused clergy public in October 2018. The 10 names added to the list on Friday include nine diocesan priests and one visiting priest from Venezuela who only spent the summer of 1991 in the Bridgeport Diocese, according to Caggiano. Of the nine diocesan priests, eight are dead and one is living. The one living priest has not served in the Diocese since 1984 and was put on permanent administrative leave after an allegation in 2006 of sexual abuse of a minor dating back to the 1970s, Caggiano said. To help make sure you stay informed on the most shared and talked about stories, each Saturday and Sunday we'll revisit 5 stories from the previous week, including the most recent updates. Racist Rant A Hamden school employee resigned on Saturday after a video apparently showed her shouting the "n-word" at a black man in the ShopRite in East Haven. The video was recorded last Friday. It is not clear what happened before the video began that led to the altercation. In a 911 call to police, Corrinne Magoveny-Terrone, of New Haven, claimed she was the victim of a verbal assault. See more about her expletive-laced 911 call here. Police Chief's Surprise Announcement Hartford police chief David Rosado announced Thursday he would be stepping down from the Department to take a job with Pratt & Whitney. Rosado is leaving just a little more than a year since he took the job. He was a member of the Connecticut State Police before that and has spent 22 years in public service. For more on Rosado's decision, click here. Toll Bills Clear Hurdle The General Assembly's Transportation Committee voted on three bills that bring Connecticut a step closer to adding tolls to highways throughout the state. The vote moves the bills out of committee and on to the full General Assembly for debate. See more on what the vote means here. Three bills that would bring tolls back to Connecticut were moved out of the General Assembly Transportation Committee on Wednesday. New Zealand Bans Some Firearms New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced an immediate ban Thursday on sales of "military-style" semi-automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines in the wake of a terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch that killed 50 worshippers. Ardern said the sales ban was effective immediately to prevent stockpiling and would be followed by a complete ban on the weapons after new laws were rushed through. Click here for more on the ban. Kids Call Cops on Dad A Wallingford man was arrested on DUI charges last Saturday after his three children called the police to report he was driving erratically. According to police, the children begged their father, 48-year-old John Sweeney, to let someone else drive, but he pulled over and kicked them out of the vehicle before he sped away. The children walked nearly a mile in the dark to a gas station to call police. See the rest of the story here. A speeding railcar crashed into a barrier at Cairo's main train station, causing its fuel tank to explode and triggering a huge fire that left at least 25 people dead on Wednesday, officials said. Railway officials said the train was speeding and collided head-on with the barrier. At least 47 people were also injured in the accident. Mohammed Said, the head of the Cairo Railroad hospital, said there are concerns the death toll could rise further following the blaze. Other officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to speak to the media. Photographs from the station showed charred bodies lying on the platforms at the Ramsis station in downtown Cairo. Firefighters struggled to get the flames under control. Heavy black smoke rose into the sky as ambulances rushed to the scene. The Ramsis district is among the busiest and most crowded areas of the Egyptian capital. The state railway agency briefly halted all train traffic and ordered the evacuation of the station. Videos from surveillance cameras inside the station showed flames ravaging the station. A video that surfaced on social media showed men and women carrying bags and personal belonging and walking on the rail platforms as the train car crashed and exploded. Another video showed men and women running, searching for exits after the explosion. A man runs back and forth, his shirt on fire, until another man rushes to pour water on him. Egypt's Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouli said authorities must determine "who caused the accident and hold that person accountable." He promised "harsh punishment" for the culprits. Egypt's railway system has a poor safety record, mostly blamed on decades of badly maintained equipment and poor management. Official figures show that 1,793 train accidents took place in 2017 across the country. In March last year, President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi said the government lacks about 250 billion Egyptian pounds, or $14.1 billion, to overhaul the run-down railway system. El-Sissi spoke a day after a passenger train collided with a cargo train, killing at least 12 people, including a child. And in August 2017, two passenger trains collided just outside the Mediterranean port city of Alexandria, killing 43 people. In 2016, at least 51 people were killed when two commuter trains collided near Cairo. Joshua L. Peugh, founder and artistic director of Dark Circles Contemporary Dance, knows dance can bring cultures together and spark conversations. "Having lived in another country where all I had was the language of dance to bridge the gap reaffirmed for me the idea that movement is the most basic form of communication," Peugh said. The dance company's Spring Series at WaterTower Theatre in Addison from March 22-24 aims to do just that with two world premieres exploring humanity and classical Indian dance. Peugh, a New Mexico native and one of Dance Magazine's "25 to Watch," moved to South Korea after graduating from Southern Methodist University. He danced with Universal Ballet Company for two and half years, but he craved another artistic challenge. "At the ballet company, I wasn't dancing the work I wanted to dance, and I wasn't seeing the kind of work I wanted to see so I started making it," Peugh said. Peugh started rehearsing with friends in the evenings after a full day of work. Then they would have dinner and as they sipped coffee, they would talk for hours before realizing it was 4 a.m. One performance at a festival led to other performance opportunities. After a few months of late-night talks, too few hours of sleep and numerous performances, Peugh and his friends decided they needed a name for the company."So, we literally had dark circles," Peugh said. "It started out as a joke Dark Circles Contemporary Dance because we're so tired but after six months, we decided it was a good name. It stuck." In 2011, Peugh's work for SMU's centennial celebration attracted the attention of the late Bruce Wood. Wood established a position for Peugh with his company, Bruce Wood Dance Project. While Peugh returned to Dallas, Dark Circles Contemporary Dance continued to establish itself in South Korea. Peugh started an American company of Dark Circles Contemporary Dance in Dallas, widening the company's reach. The Korean company tours throughout Asia while the American company premieres works in Dallas and tours throughout the United States, Canada and Germany. When the Dallas company collaborated with the Korea National Contemporary Dance Company in 2017, Peugh introduced the American company to their Korean counterparts, taking them to the Korean company's studio. "We did a company class together, they got to meet the other dancers and listen to the other half of the founding team talking about our principles," Peugh said. Those principles stem from Peugh's love of theater and engaging storytelling. "My goal is always to be as accessible as possible to as many people as possible. I think we have to be entertainers. That's our job," Peugh said. "I'm always training the company to let things happen instead of making things happen. All the training is specifically built to make people present so everything is coming from the inside out, because I believe if the story we're telling is authentic and honest, it's a lot easier for the audience to insert themselves into the fantasy they are seeing onstage." Peugh wants audiences immersed in the dance, preferring intimate venues with no barriers between the audience and the dancers. "It's not something that sits away from you. It's actually something you're interacting with, so the shared experience is happening between the audience and the performers," Peugh said. "My favorite compliment after the performance is always people saying, 'Oh, I wanted to get up and do that too,' or 'I was dancing in my seat,' or people sending me an email a week later saying they have questions because there's some peculiarity of our work picking at them." Audiences will experience two contrasting works as a part of the Spring Series. "Nervosa" is a world premiere creation by award-winning choreographer, Sidra Bell. "I try to pick people that I'm jealous of to bring in. When I commission someone, I'm going to bring in someone that I wish I had thought of what they did, people who I think can challenge me and push me in a different direction," Peugh said. Bell's sleek, architectural work emphasizes the exploration of movement to comprehend what is happening in the world. Peugh is creating the second piece on the program, "Dialogue", combining contemporary dance with Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form. Tejas Dance, a classical Indian dance duo, is collaborating on the work. For Peugh, it's an experiment to better understand another culture's dance form, testing the language of dance's vocabulary and surprising its creators. "What happens if we smash it together? What happens if we break some of the rules of the classical form, but also break some of the rules of contemporary dance by adding in facial expressions or detailed eye and hand gestures," Peugh said. "I never know what's going to come out when I'm working." MORE: DarkCirclesContemporaryDance.com Police in Houston say a 5-year-old boy has died after table fell on him at a church. Police were called to the Signs And Wonders Apostolic Outreach Ministries in northwest Houston about 9:30 p.m. Thursday and found the child injured. Police say he was taken to a hospital where he later died. The child's name has not been released and police say officers are still trying to determine what caused the table to fall. The man accused of beating a stranger in a parking lot in Dallas' Deep Ellum neighborhood is free on bond and activists are calling for him to go back to jail on steeper charges. The dispute started when a woman drove the wrong way down a one-way street and temporarily blocked a truck from leaving a parking lot, while she was dropping off a friend. A witness' cell phone captured the moments the 24-year-old woman was brutally beaten in Deep Ellum. Police said, it was at the hands of Austin Shuffield. In the video, she tries to call for help but her phone is swatted away. When she fights back, she's punched five times. At one point, Shuffield appears to be holding a gun. Now out of the hospital, the victim's attorney said she's dealing with a concussion, swelling and, now, online death threats. People in Shuffield's Oawklawn neighborhood said they're stunned by the news. "It's pretty terrifying to think that he could do that to a random person, I can only imagine what he could do to a significant other," said Stephen Buddrus, a neighbor. Police booked Shuffield for assault with bodily injury, interfering with an emergency call and public intoxication. According to an affidavit, they later found a gun and knife in his truck. He's since bonded out of jail. "I don't even know who would sign off on letting this type of person out. This man brutally beat this woman, had a gun on him," said a member of Next Generation Action Network who spoke to media Friday. In the Deep Ellum parking lot where it happened, the colorful backdrops are overpowered by the fiery calls for action. "We're not pulling the race card. Mr. Austin Shuffield pulled the race card first," said Minister Dominique Alexander, president of Next Generation Action Network. Alexander spoke in solidarity with the victim's attorney, Lee Merritt, calling for enhanced felony charges. Both say the 30-year-old yelled several racial slurs, including the 'n' word. They're demanding Shuffield be rearrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and a hate crime. "If we do not get these charges, there will be strong protests at the Dallas County District Attorney's Office and Dallas Police headquarters," Alexander said. More than 24 hours after the attack, we asked Dallas Police Chief Renee Hall if she'd seen the video. "I can't tell you I haven't received the video, I just have not had an opportunity to review it." Hall said. "I will review the video sometime today." She said she's relying on her detectives to get it right. "Allow the detectives to review the video, consult and make the necessary adjustments to any charges, if that is necessary," Hall said. "We are not at the end of it, we're really just at the beginning." In the meantime -- those supporting the victim are making sure their voices are heard. "Austin Shuffield wherever you at, you might get by but you can't get away, because on the day your court date comes, we're gonna pack it," said a woman with Next Generation Action Network. A Mexican national suspected in a fatal 1998 shooting on a college campus in Texas has been extradited to face a capital murder charge. McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez said Thursday that 39-year-old Roberto Ojeda Hernandez arrived in Texas on Wednesday. He was arrested in July in Reynosa, Mexico. Ojeda Hernandez is being held on $2 million bond in the Hidalgo County jail. Court and jail records don't list an attorney who could speak on his behalf. Ojeda Hernandez is suspected of opening fire as students registered for classes at the Pecan Campus of South Texas College on Jan. 13, 1998. The campus is in McAllen, about 300 miles (483 kilometers) southwest of Houston. The shooting killed 32-year-old security guard Carlos Hernandez and wounded three students. Rodriguez said police believe at least two other people were also involved in the shooting during an attempted robbery. 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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. David Dunagan and his wife, Lori, moved to the East Texas ranching community of Whitton two years ago to escape the bright lights of Dallas, finding peace on a back patio overlooking the emptiness of rolling grasslands dotted by grazing cattle and deer. The Houston Chronicle reports what they didn't count on was one of the fastest growing industries in the state choosing a location that would blot the pastoral landscape and upset their vision of a bucolic lifestyle. That industry is solar energy and the Dunagans are at the forefront of a campaign to stop the development of a 1,100-acre solar farm with as many as 450,000 solar panels -- a campaign that has bitterly divided this unincorporated community in Van Zandt County between landowners who will benefit from leasing their property and those who see a threat to a fragile ranching ecosystem that depends on water, grass and space. The debate here has also raised questions about the environmental impact of what is widely considered an environmentally friendly technology and the appropriateness of industrial installations in rural and natural locations. The debate is likely to spread to other communities across the state. Solar is the fastest growing source of electricity in Texas, with its share of power generation expected to double to 2 percent this year and more than double again to 5 percent in 2021, according to the Texas Solar Power Association, a trade group. Solar projects are under development in about 80, or nearly one-third, of the state's 254 counties. The Dunagans, whose 2.5 acre property would be surrounded by sun-catching panels, have discovered that the solar development would be like any other power generation installation. Fencing with razor wire would keep out intruders. Rollers would click throughout the day as panels on tracking devices rotate to face the sun. Hazardous chemicals contained in the panels pose threats of contamination. "It will look like a solid sea of panels," said David Dunagan. Other property owners, however, welcome the project, which David Dunagan said is offering as much as $450 per acre per year to lease the land for as many as 40 years, compared to $15 an acre landowners would get for cattle grazing. The solar farm is also expected to generate $22 million in new tax revenue for the Canton Independent School District, adding an extra 2.75 percent a year to the district's $20 million budget. It will also be a welcome addition to Van Zandt County whose average adjusted gross income in 2016 was $49,000, compared to $67,000 statewide. The solar farm is expected to contribute $9 million to county coffers over its life of 35 to 40 years. Van Zandt County Judge Don Kirkpatrick is walking a thin line, aware of hard feelings from both sides. "I wouldn't want it beside me," he said in his office at the county courthouse in Canton. "But I wouldn't want government telling me what to do with my property." Solar and wind power are classified as clean energy, but clean, as Van Zandt County shows, can be a matter of opinion. Wind and solar projects have spurred fierce debate in communities around the country. In Massachusetts, homeowners with ocean views -- including the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy -- helped scuttle an offshore wind farm off the coast of Cape Cod. In Culpeper, Virginia, residents sued the Florida power company NextEra Energy last year to block a solar farm they say would destroy beautiful views and make it difficult to rent properties for events such as weddings. In California, environmental groups concerned about endangered wildlife sued to stop construction on what would have been one of the world's biggest solar projects and agreed to settle when the developers reduced the project to one-third its original size. Texas, however, has a long history of welcoming energy projects. Private landowners have for more than a century leased mineral rights and allowed oil and gas drilling on their properties, typically without much fuss. The opposition to the solar farm has come as a big surprise to Anne Lantrip, who, along with her husband, bought 143 acres in Van Zandt County about 12 years ago. They were thinking of building an RV park or developing a storage facility, so when they got the chance to lease 127 acres for the solar farm, they jumped at the opportunity. Never, said Lantrip, did they think they'd face a backlash that has included hurtful comments on Facebook. "We thought we would be doing something good," said Lantrip The solar farm will have a generating capacity of 127-megawatts, enough to power about 25,000 Texas homes on a hot summer day. The project was first launched by German-owned Alpin Group and bought by Pattern Development of Houston in December. Opposition began building after word got out in the community that Alpin was leasing land, beginning during the summer of 2017. Public meetings soon drew 200 or more residents with many opposed to the project. Signs and banners blaring, "Say No!!! Solar Power Plant" popped up all over Canton, the Van Zandt County seat, and in surrounding communities. Opponents have raised concerns about safety, over the possibility brush fires common in East Texas could start under the panels or tornadoes could rip the panels from their posts. Cattle rancher Kim Yates sells grass fed beef raised on about 1,000 acres with no drugs, hormones or pesticides. She shows off a certificate from the Texas Department of Agriculture that attests that her operation is drug, hormone and pesticide free. She likes the idea of solar power. But Yates is worried herbicides used to control weeds under solar panels could seep into the sandy loam soil and ground water and migrate to her ranch just a mile downstream. She also worries about toxic chemicals commonly used in solar panels, such as lead and cadmium, could be released in panels are damaged. Yates said she sees little upside for the community in an industrial-scale project that seems at odds with its ranching character. Pattern, she said, stands to gain an investment tax credit worth about $42 million on the $150 million solar project, which she expects would sell the power to some corporation aiming to burnish its image as environmentally friendly. "We are falling victim to a green marketing scheme," said Yates. Pattern officials said they have been stunned by the opposition they've encountered in Van Zandt County. Pattern is building two more solar projects nearby, including a 100-megawatt farm in Fannin County and an 80-megawatt farm in Hopkins County. Both East Texas communities have welcomed the projects, said Deann Lanz, director of land and business development. Now, Pattern is doing what it can to allay concerns, offering to put up hedges to block unsightly views, promising to judiciously use herbicides only when absolutely necessary and vowing to have a disaster readiness plan to tackle fires and other emergencies. The solar panes in aluminum frames will not leach into the water or soil because the solar cells are protected by multiple layers laminated and attached to frames made of aluminum alloy, according to Pattern. Lanz said she believes that most people in the county believe they should be able to do what they want with their own property. Opponents, she said, represent "a small but very, very vocal minority." Cattle rancher Archie Neal grew up two miles from where he lives, atop a hill that looks out over grazing land. He has worked the land all his life, selling the calves born each year at market. He won't say how much property he owns, but he leased 148 acres to Pattern Energy for a confidential fee. The steady income over the next 40 years will smooth out the financial ups and downs of raising cattle and provide security for his family, Neal said. For him, he added, there's no cost to raising solar panels, a crop that Neal calls low-impact. "We don't have to feed them and we don't have to water them," he said. "And you don't have to worry about too much rain." Neal has watched the Dallas metropolitan area stretch eastward toward Van Zandt County, with newcomers buying a few acres and assuming their views would stay the same even though they don't own the adjacent land. If you want that kind of control, Neal said, "you don't buy two acres. You buy 100 acres and then you build your home in the middle of it." Neal said he didn't take Pattern's offer to upset his neighbors. Nor did he have any idea the solar farm would divide the community. Yet, he and his neighbors who agreed to lease their land to Pattern have been unfairly depicted as the bad guys. The opposition group, Save Van Zandt County, is calculating its next move. Maybe they'll file a lawsuit. They're talking to state lawmakers about legislation to streamline recovery of damages. They're working with communities fighting other Pattern projects, such as a wind farm in California. "We're hoping they back off," said Sandra Plaster, whose ranch land will abut the solar installation, "and say it's not worth it." A Mesa Airlines flight attendant, who as a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program recipient is barred from traveling outside the United States under the Trump administration's rules, was released from immigration detention Friday after being taken into custody when she returned to the U.S. on a flight from Mexico that she had worked. Selene Saavedra Roman, 28, who works for the regional airline based in Phoenix, walked out of the immigration facility Friday evening dragging her Mesa-issued flight bags, according to a representative for the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA who went to meet her and her attorney. She had been held for more than a month. "Being released is an incredible feeling. I cried and hugged my husband and never wanted to let go," Saavedra Roman said in a statement sent by her attorney Belinda Arroyo to NBC News. "I am thankful and grateful for the amazing people that came to fight for me, and it fills my heart. Thank you everyone that has supported. I am just so happy to have my freedom back." Mesa erroneously reassured Roman that she could fly to Mexico. But she was taken into custody Feb. 12, upon landing at the George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston and placed in immigration detention in Conroe, Texas, Arroyo told NBC News. As soon as Special Counsel Robert Mueller had submitted his report on his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election to Attorney General William Barr, Democratic politicians began pushing for its release to Americans. Many insisted that President Donald Trump not be allowed to determine what parts are made public. Senate Republican Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, in a statement released Friday, called only for as much openness as possible. He said that he hoped the report would help improve efforts to protect American democracy, which many Republicans believed had been threatened by Russia. "The attorney general has said he intends to provide as much information as possible," he said. "As I have said previously, I sincerely hope he will do so as soon as he can, and with as much openness and transparency as possible." On May 17, 2017, former FBI Director Robert Mueller was appointed special counsel to oversee the investigation into possible links between Russia and the Trump campaign. He secured the conviction of one Trump associate, guilty pleas from several others and the indictment of Russians who allegedly interfered in the 2016 election. Barr determines how much of the report to share with Congress, and in a letter to lawmakers on the House and Senate judiciary committees said that he may be in a position to advise them of Muellers principal conclusions as soon as the weekend. Democrats House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California and Senate Minority Chuck Schumer of New York released a statement demanding that President Donald Trump not be given an early look at the report. "Now that Special Counsel Mueller has submitted his report to the Attorney General, it is imperative for Mr. Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress. Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public," they said. This month the House voted overwhelmingly on a nonbinding resolution to make the report's findings available to the public. The vote was 420 to zero, with four members voting present. The former chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, said that throughout a prolonged investigation, which cost tens of millions in taxpayer dollars and included aggressive surveillance tools, "we still havent seen any evidence of collusion." "Now that hes wrapped up his investigation, Attorney General Barr must provide Congress and the American people with the findings to finally put an end to the speculation and innuendo that has loomed over this administration since its earliest days. Attempts to keep the collusion narrative alive, especially for political reasons, will only serve to further harm our political discourse and play into the hands of our foreign adversaries." U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, a Democrat from Rhode Island and the ranking member of the Armed Services Committee, said the attorney general should expedite making the full report public, consistent with U.S. national security. "The American people have a right to see the evidence and draw their own conclusions," Reed said. "I urge Mr. Mueller to testify before Congress about the evidence he gathered, the scope of his work, and findings." "President Trump has sought to thwart and undermine the independent investigation at every turn," he said. "He has demeaned U.S. law enforcement and U.S. intelligence in a way that no previous President has ever done before and tried to declare himself exonerated before the report was even done." Friday evening, many other lawmakers, including those running in the 2020 presidential election, took to Twitter with their views. Here is a sampling of their reactions. A new Coast Guard cutter commissioned Friday honors a petty officer who was killed in a confrontation with suspected smugglers off Southern California. Terrell Horne's widow, Rachel, and three young sons attended the ceremony at Coast Guard Base Los Angeles-Long Beach. "The crew and I did not have to look any further than the cutter's stern for guidance or inspiration in our efforts to contribute to the successes of the world's best coast guard," said Lt. John Beal, the cutter's first commander. "Senior Chief Horne, whose name is on the transom, represented the very best of our nation's military servicemen and -women." Horne was killed in December 2012 as crewmembers from the Marina del Rey-based cutter Halibut were maneuvering an inflatable boat near Santa Cruz Island to intercept a panga, a type of boat favored by smugglers trying to bring contraband and people north from Mexico. As the panga moved to ram the inflatable boat, Horne pushed another crew member out of the way, then was hurled overboard by the impact and suffered fatal head injuries. The panga captain, Jose Mejia-Leyva, was convicted of murder and assaults on four federal officers. A federal judge sentenced him to life in prison. Another man from the panga received a 10-year sentence. The commissioning ceremony drew Adm. Karl Schultz, who is commandant of the Coast Guard, other service leaders and members of Horne's extended family. The vessel is the third of four new Fast Response Cutters to be based in Los Angeles for service in the 11th Coast Guard District, which includes all of California and international waters off Mexico and Central America, where interceptions routinely haul in huge loads of illicit drugs. The cutters, part of efforts to modernize the Coast Guard fleet, have advanced systems and can reach speeds of 28 knots (32 mph or 52 kph). Each ship has a crew of 24, a range of 2,500 miles (4,023 kilometers) and is capable of patrols lasting up to five days. Police sought a 25-year-old man in the deadly shooting of a woman with whom he had a relationship, officials said. Julio Rocha was being sought in the shooting of Thalia Flores in her car at a Big Lots parking lot in Chino on Thursday. Rocha is accused of shooting Flores and another man. Flores died, while the other man was able to take himself to the hospital. Relatives told police Flores and Rocha had a relationship. An herbalist surrendered Friday to begin serving a 120-day jail term on two misdemeanor counts stemming from the death of a 13-year-old diabetic boy in the Harbor Gateway area. Timothy Morrow, now 85, was convicted Feb. 20 of practicing medicine without a license, but jurors deadlocked two days later on a child abuse count stemming from Edgar Lopez's August 2014 death. Morrow subsequently pleaded no contest to child abuse likely to produce great bodily injury or death following an agreement that his jail term on both counts would run at the same time. On Feb. 25, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Victoria B. Wilson sentenced Morrow to 120 days in jail, four years probation, a one-year child abuse treatment counseling program, a $5,000 fine and more than $4,200 in restitution to the boy's family for funeral expenses. The judge also ordered him to take down You Tube videos extolling the virtues of herbal treatments in lieu of medicine and to print a clear warning label on herbs he packages for sale. Morrow also was advised that he could be charged with murder if he continues such acts and they lead to another person's death, according to the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office. "It really tore me apart, seeing the (hand)cuffs put on him tore me apart," one of Morrow's longtime friends, Doug Hedlund, said outside court after Morrow was taken into custody. Hedlund described his friend of 25 years as "one of the finest men I know" and said his fellow Air Force veteran friend "believes everything that he recommends in the way of his products" and is "not a con man." Morrow's friend said he sent a letter to Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer before Morrow's trial in which he expressed his belief that "this is a miscarriage of justice." In a statement released last month, the city attorney said that the case "underscores the serious health and safety risks of taking medical advice from someone who lacks a license and the proper training that goes with it" and that Morrow's conviction sends a "strong message that my office will continue to hold accountable those whose actions place lives in danger." In closing arguments last month, Los Angeles Deputy City Attorney Heidi Matz told jurors that Morrow gave "hope" to the teen's family by assuring the boy's mother that he was going through a "healing crisis" and convincing them to use herbal products instead of insulin to treat his Type 1 diabetes before the teen's August 2014 death. She cited what she called "criminal negligence" and "callous disregard" by Morrow. Defense attorney Sanford Perliss countered that the teen's mother didn't even know Morrow when she informed a doctor that she wanted to give her son herbal remedies. "Nobody held a gun on Edgar. Nobody held a gun on Edgar's mom. Nobody stole insulin from that house so Edgar's mom couldn't use it," Perliss said in his closing argument. "Edgar's mom wanted to do what Edgar's mom wanted to do." The herbalist's attorney noted that the teen's mother testified about growing up in Mexico using traditional remedies and about Morrow telling her his story about successfully battling cancer without undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. "That's his life," Perliss said. "Is it a crime to tell people your experiences?" The defense lawyer -- who urged jurors to acquit his client -- suggested that Morrow became a "sacrificial lamb" after the teen's death, and said the case "hasn't been proven beyond a reasonable doubt." In her rebuttal argument, the prosecutor countered, "This case is proven beyond any doubt." She told jurors the boy died within hours of Morrow visiting the family's home and that Morrow's control over the boy's family did not abate until the teen passed away. "Edgar died unnecessarily and today we are here for him," the deputy city attorney said. The teen had a cardiac arrest and died as the result of complications from his diabetes. The medical examiner determined that he would have lived if he had received the proper medical treatment, according to the City Attorney's Office. Through a Spanish interpreter, the teen's mother, Maria Madrigal, testified last month that she initially began giving her son supplements and only used products that Morrow sold after meeting him. She told jurors that Morrow had warned her "not to trust doctors," and that she "absolutely" felt he had brainwashed her. Dockworkers fearing increasing automation will cost jobs in the Port of Los Angeles are fighting use of driverless electric cargo trucks. The issue drew union members, local business owners and activists to a hearing Thursday by the Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners, which postponed a decision on a construction permit for the system after Mayor Eric Garcetti offered to mediate the dispute. The mayor called for a 28-delay in a decision on the permit, the Los Angeles Times reported. "The decision before the board may have far-reaching impacts on the pace of automation at our port and could define how the port will compete and sustain jobs into the foreseeable future," Garcetti wrote in a letter presented at the hearing. The mayor added that negotiations "should serve as the basis of a new task force to explore automation and its impacts on the future of the Port of Los Angeles and others across the state." One terminal in Los Angeles and another in the adjacent Port of Long Beach already use driverless vehicles known as utility tractor rigs. The uproar comes as a facility operated for Denmark's Moller-Maersk by APM Terminals plans to use the battery-powered, self-guided cargo handling equipment, which APM contends is a response to the ports' clean air rules. Union members, however, fear the equipment will spread to all terminals and hundreds of jobs will be lost. They contend APM could use manned electric vehicles. Automation of the ports dates back decades to the introduction of containers, which dockworkers agreed to in exchange for increased pay and benefits, the Times said. A 2008 International Longshore and Warehouse Union contract allowed West Coast ports to continue automating, and the pact was renewed in 2015. Maersk attorney Peter Jabbour told the commissioners there is no legal basis for the union's opposition. Eugene Seroka, the port's executive director, said the permit complies with the port's master plan and the California Coastal Act. Janice Hahn, a member of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, urged the board to block the automation plan, and Los Angeles Councilman Joe Buscaino noted that the City Council has the power to overturn any commission decision. A 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder for allegedly shooting a 45-year-old man at a Metro Red Line station Saturday morning in East Hollywood, a police officer said. The shooting occurred at 1 a.m. at the Red Line station in the 1500 block of North Vermont Avenue, said Officer Sal Ramirez of the LAPD's Media Relations Section. The shooting victim was taken to an area hospital in stable condition, Ramirez said. The same Metro station was the scene of a sexual assault on March 14, when police and Metro officials say a transient punched, choked and raped a woman in the station's emergency exit stairwell. That suspect, who police said frequents the Metro stations from Compton to Santa Monica, was described as a black man with brown eyes, between 5-feet-7 inches and-5 feet-10 inches tall, between 165 and 180 pounds, with a shaved head, an earring on his right ear and a 2- to 3-inch scar on his left forearm. He wore all dark clothing. Anyone with information on that case was urged to call Transit Watch at (888) 950-SAFE; Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS; or LAPD detectives at (323) 561-3328. Tens of thousands of veterans and service members stationed at military bases in Iraq and Afghanistan say exposure to trash fires or burn pits has left them with breathing problems and other chronic illnesses, including cancer. They are fighting for health benefits, but say the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is turning its back on them. Veterans say everything went into the burn pits plastic water bottles, spent munitions, tires, human and medical waste. They say the heaping piles of trash were often then doused with jet fuel and lit on fire. The pits burned 24 hours a day in or next to their military bases. June Heston, of Richmond, Vermont, lost her husband Mike Heston last year. "How can that even happen? I was mad. So mad," she said. A Vermont widow blames the death of her husband on exposure to toxic smoke from military burn pits overseas. Brig. Gen. Mike Heston was in the Vermont National Guard and volunteered for three tours of duty in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. "He was a soldiers soldier," June Heston said. "It meant everything." But in 2016, nearly four years after his last tour, Mike Heston started having back pain. He went to a slew of doctors who performed countless tests. He lost 75 pounds. For almost a year, no one could figure out what was going on. "I said, 'I feel like he's dying and I'm the only one who sees it,'" Heston recalled, choking back tears. Mike Heston was dying. He had stage 4 pancreatic cancer. But it would take new doctors in Boston and an article the veteran stumbled upon to connect the possible dots. It was about a young mother in the Minnesota National Guard, Amie Muller, whose family blamed her pancreatic cancer, and eventual death, on the burn pits at her military base in Iraq. The same kind of burn pits in Mike Heston complained to his wife about at his base. "The military failed him. The doctors failed him," June Heston said. "I was angry." The military started using burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan in the early 2000s. Veterans tell NBC10 Boston Investigators they were the fastest and cheapest way to get rid of trash. Veterans say the garbage was often doused with jet fuel and set on fire. They burned day and night. June Heston, of Richmond, Vermont, lost her husband Brig. Gen. Mike Heston last year to stage four pancreatic cancer. The Hestons believe Mike's exposure to burn pits during his time in Afghanistan is to blame. Dr. Tom Abrams, an oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, said hed never heard of burn pits before meeting the Hestons. "It was shocking to learn about them," Abrams said. "I asked, 'why is this happening? How could this be happening? This is clearly a threat to health.'" It was Abrams' team that found Heston's cancer and while he can't prove it definitively, he told the VA the exposure "....more likely than not..." made Heston sick. "Mike and the other patients are the canaries in the coal mine," he said. "And I think we're going to see more and more of these patients with cancers of all stripes." Abrams' letter helped Heston gain disability medical benefits through the VA. Veterans are only eligible for health insurance for five years after service unless their illness is determined to be service related. The VA has approved just 20 percent of the nearly 12,000 medical claims related to burn pits over the last decade. The agency admits there are toxins in the smoke, but insists most health effects are temporary. Dr. Tom Abrams, an oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, says he had never heard of burn pits until he treated Brigadier General Mike Heston. "In some people it may be making them sick," said Dr. Drew Helmer, who directs the VA's War Related Illness and Injury Study Center in New Jersey. "Who it is making sick, how many people it is making sick and what is the sicknessthose are still questions we dont have answers for." The VA says it is continuing to study the issue and in 2014, Congress mandated they create a burn pit registry to collect data on exposed veterans to better evaluate the issue and potential risk. Nearly 170,000 veterans and servicemen have signed up. Forty-two hundred of them are from New England. June Heston said her husband did sign up for the registry once he had learned of it. "He said, 'You don't start a registry unless you know there's a problem,'" she recalled. Veterans and families call the registry a start, but want more education for doctors, especially civilian practitioners, and guaranteed medical care for veterans exposed. Those health benefits could cost the VA billions. Images: From Service to Sick Heston lost her warrior in late 2018. The husband and father of two was 58 years old. Heston says her husband told her to keep fighting for other veterans. Families often compare burn pit exposure to Agent Orange, the defoliant used in Vietnam, which was eventually linked to cause cancer and other diseases in exposed veterans. By the time the VA recognized the illnesses as service related, many veterans had already died without VA health benefits. "Most of these men and women will die before any responsibility is taken and the help that they need is given," June Heston said. "That's the reality." The Department of Defense turned down the NBC10 Boston Investigators request for an interview. They said they are now largely using incinerators, a more expensive method of getting rid of trash, but the military admits burn pits are still being used near about a dozen bases in the Middle East. Legislators have introduced a bill called the Burn Pits Accountability Act that would require the military to track service members and veterans exposed to burn pits, require health evaluations and share data about burn pits with the public. It was referred to the House Subcommittee on Health. If you or a loved one were exposed to burn pits in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Djibouti and you'd like to share your story with Ally Donnelly, she may be reached at Ally.Donnelly@nbcuni.com. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 22) Former government officials who filed a complaint against Chinese President Xi Jinping at the International Criminal Court (ICC) are hoping for his arrest and the possible financial reparation for Filipino fishermen whose livelihood were affected in the South China Sea dispute. "If enough credible witnesses are produced, we could be reaching a point of having a formal investigation which could lead to a warrant of arrest," former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said in a press briefing Friday. He was joined by fellow complainant, former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales, who stressed that the ICC can prosecute China, a non-state party because the "crime (was) committed within the territory" of a state party - the Philippines. Del Rosario and Morales were signatories in the 17-page complaint - which the ICC calls communication - that was filed on March 15, two days before the Philippines' withdrawal from the international tribunal took effect. Morales said the ICC had acknowledged receipt of the communication. It could next launch a preliminary examination, similar to what is being conducted now on alleged extrajudicial killings in President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs. The initial review would determine if the ICC could launch a full-blown investigation, which could later progress to a trial and conviction. Del Rosario said Xi "is the one that directly caused significant problems" in the South China Sea, including the building and militarization of artificial islands, damage to marine environment, and harassment of Filipino fishermen. "We demand accountability from those who destroy marine areas," Morales said. Fishermen's plight Aside from Xi's arrest, Morales said "among other things that we expect to result from this (filing) would be reparation." "That's not bad if it will be used to improve the lives of the fishermen. We are looking at hopefully bringing the issue to that point where there can be some negotiations on how the lives of our people can be improved," del Rosario said. Their communication cited written testimonies from fishermen who said they lost their livelihood as China took over Scarborough Shoal in 2012. They recalled the controversial standoff which prompted Manila to file a case against China at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague. In July 2016, the international tribunal invalidated China's sweeping claims to the South China Sea. It also and recognized the Philippines' sovereign rights in areas within its 200-nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone where China has built artificial islands, prohibited Filipino fishermen from fishing and interfered in petroleum exploration. The tribunal did not rule on which country has sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal - located around 120 nautical miles off Zambales - but said China violated its duty to respect traditional fishing rights of Filipino fishermen there. China has refused to recognize the landmark ruling. Jowe Legaspi, one of the fishermen whose affidavits were used in the communication, fears fishermen will all the more be harassed by Chinese vessels because of the legal challenge at the ICC. "Ang concern ko lang baka di kaya pag-initan na naman yung mga mangingisda," Legaspi told CNN Philippines in a phone interview. But he said he is not losing hope that fishermen will one day enjoy the freedom to explore the country's marine resources without any fear or threat from anyone. David and Goliath "Are you reminded of the case of David and Goliath?" Morales asked as she stressed being unfazed in fighting a "powerful" Xi. "That he is powerful does not deter anyone to file a case against him," she added. She revealed that the decision to file a complaint against Xi was reached after Del Rosario and his friends, whom they did not name, talked about the fishermen's plight over breakfast. "If it took that long for the group to file the case it was because given the friendliness of the Philippines to China, we expected reciprocity from the point of view of China but it seems there was no reciprocity that was shown," Morales said. The Duterte government has been criticized for pursuing friendlier ties with China amid the long-standing maritime row in the South China Sea. Duterte has also refused to bring up the arbitral ruling with China, although he promised to do so within his term. Del Rosario said the "shelving" of the country's win in The Hague also contributed to their decision to take the issue to the ICC. "There used to be a sense that would be expressed that international law only applies to small countries and very early on we took the opposite view," Del Rosario said. "We have that we're very strong in terms of international law being applicable to all countries no matter what size and I think we proved our point when we won the arbitral tribunal outcome." "We hope to win our point again in this ICC effort," he added. A futile exercise? In a statement Saturday, however, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo reiterated the challenges that the complaint may face. He said while Morales and del Rosario may have the right to file the complaint at the ICC, but whether it would prosper was another matter. Aside from the country not being a member of the ICC, he said, the court has no jurisdiction over China. "The filing of the complaint may be a futile exercise," said Panelo. Panelo also said neither Morales nor del Rosario has the right to file a complaint on behalf of the country, adding that even if they were so authorized, the Philippines was never under ICC jurisdiction as the Rome Statute never took effect meaning the country was not a State Party to the ICC. The Rome Statute does not also include environmental damage as a crime, he added. "The critics and detractors will have a field day criticising the President in the event the case is dismissed by the ICC for lack of jurisdiction. They can claim that it was a mistake for the Philippine government to withdraw its membership from the Rome Statute as the ICC can no longer serve as a venue to prosecute President Xi for an alleged commission of crime against humanity. We reiterate, however, that the Philippines under the Duterte Administration is engaged in a diplomatic negotiation, through a bilateral consultation mechanism (BCM), over the West Philippine Sea issue," Panelo said. CNN Philippines' Anjo Alimario contributed to this report. Scattered yellow vest protesters clashed with French police firing tear gas Saturday after a peaceful march through Paris, but tougher security measures and protest bans in high-risk neighborhoods prevented the kind of rioting that devastated the capital a week ago. The 4-month-old movement drew bigger crowds Saturday than in recent weeks, despite heavy security and even though last weekend's violence dented overall support for the cause. The protesters want more help for struggling French workers and retirees and say President Emmanuel Macron favors the elite. Thousands of demonstrators marched peacefully through Paris - their 19th straight weekend of protests - ending up at the Sacre-Coeur Cathedral overlooking the city from the historic Montmartre neighborhood. Protesters sprayed yellow flares and unfurled a neon banner from atop the cathedral's white dome. In a relaxed mood, demonstrators and tourists alike took selfies as the march wound down. Later, however, tensions erupted as small clusters of masked protesters set garbage cans on fire and threw projectiles as they moved toward Republique Plaza in eastern Paris. Helmeted riot police fired volleys of tear gas in response. A police officer on the plaza suffered a heart problem, slumping to the ground before being hospitalized in what Paris police described as a "very serious" condition. Associated Press journalists at the scene saw no violence or incidents nearby when he collapsed. At least 2,000 people have been injured in protest violence since the yellow vest movement began in November, and 11 people have been killed in protest-related road accidents. Elsewhere in France on Saturday, small groups of demonstrators and police clashed in the southern French cities of Nice and Montpellier. Nice was placed under high security measures as Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to stay overnight on Sunday as part of his state visit to France. Overall though, Saturday's protests were calmer than a week ago, when resurgent violence reminded France's government that they've failed to quell yellow vest anger. Luxury shops were looted and ransacked last weekend around the Champs-Elysees Avenue in Paris and some were set on fire by protesters. This week, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner estimated that 40,500 people took part in protests around France, up from 32,300 a week ago. This week's protests were more spread out, with just 5,000 estimated in Paris compared to 10,000 last Saturday. Some 233 people were arrested, including people trying to come to Paris to protest with baseball bats, slingshots and other potential weapons, Castaner said. French authorities banned protests from the Champs-Elysees Avenue in Paris and the central neighborhoods of several other cities including Bordeaux, Toulouse, Marseille and Nice in the south, and Rouen in western France. The Champs-Elysees was almost empty Saturday except for a huge police presence. Fear of more violence certainly kept tourists away, and police shut down the Champs-Elysees subway stations as a precaution. The new Paris police chief, Didier Lallement, who took charge this week following the destruction wrought by last week's protests, said specific police units were created to react faster to any violence. About 6,000 police officers were deployed in the capital Saturday and two drones helped monitor the demonstrations. French authorities also deployed soldiers to protect sensitive sites, allowing police to focus on maintaining order. That decision prompted criticism from opposition leaders and some protesters. "Since when do soldiers face a population? We are here in France. You would say that we are here in (North) Korea or in China. I never saw something like this," said Christelle Camus, a protester from a southern suburb of Paris. Polls suggest last week's violence dampened public support for the yellow vests - but that a majority of French people still agree with the protesters' anger over France's tax system and Macron's leadership. Saturday's marchers held signs demanding more say for citizens in public policy. "We come to protest in a calm manner. We have the right to express ourselves, to say that we want to live (decently)," said Celine Dutry, who came to Paris to protest from the northern city of Amiens - Macron's hometown. "We are not jealous of the rich." The protests started in November to oppose fuel tax hikes but have expanded into a broader rejection of Macron's economic policies, which protesters say favor businesses and the wealthy over ordinary French workers. Macron countered by dropping the fuel tax hike and holding months of discussions with the public on France's stagnant wages, high taxes and high unemployment. The yellow vest movement was named after the fluorescent garments that French motorists must carry in their vehicles for emergencies. Milos Krivokapic and Chris den Hond contributed to this report. Senator Bernie Sanders brought his 2020 presidential campaign to California, kicking off a weekend of free events with a Rally at Waterfront Park in San Diego. The two-time presidential hopeful launched his bid on a Vermont radio program in February and said he plans to continue championing for progressive proposals like universal health care, a $15 minimum wage and to reduce student debt. Sanders echoed those campaign points at Waterfront Park. He reminded San Diego that President Franklin Delano Roosevelt gave a speech from the exact same spot and championed for economic rights in addition to political rights, like the right to a job and the right to health care for all Americans -- points which Sanders said he agrees with. "And that is why today, we say to the private health insurance companies, whether you like it or not, the United States will join every other major country on earth and guarantee healthcare to all people as a right. All Americans are entitled to go to the doctor when they're sick and not go bankrupt after staying in the hospital. We will no longer accept the absurdity of paying almost twice as much per capita on health care, while we have a lower life expectancy and worse health care outcomes than many other countries," the senator said. Sanders went on to criticize the imbalance between costs paid by customers and revenues taken in by health insurance companies. "We will pass a Medicare-for-all single-payer program. Health care is a right, not a privilege," Sanders said. Sanders didn't spend much time on tuition and student debt relief but did vow to make public colleges and universities free. "Today, we say to our young people that we want you to get the best education that you can, regardless of the income of your family. Good jobs require a good education. That is why we are going to make public colleges and universities tuition-free, and substantially lower the outrageous level of student debt that currently exists," he said. Sanders said he's been criticized for proposing a federal minimum wage increase, but said he will keep fighting for what once seemed like an "impossible dream." Today, we say to Walmart and other low wage employers: Stop paying your workers starvation wages. Yes. We are going to raise the federal minimum wage to a living wage - $15 an hour. Nobody who works 40 hours a week in this country should live in poverty. And yes. We're going to make it easier for people to join unions, not harder. "Four years ago, when we talked about the idea of a $15 an hour minimum wage, it seemed like an impossible dream. Well, since then, we have successfully pressured Amazon and Disney to raise their minimum wage to $15, and just today Costco raised its minimum wage to $15 an hour. We have also seen five states, including California, pass $15 an hour legislation and, just a few weeks ago, the U.S. House Committee on Labor and Education reported out a bill that will raise the federal minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to $15 an hour. And, I believe, that bill will pass the full House within the month," Sanders said. In response to the candidate's visit, the chairman of the Republican Party of San Diego County issued a statement criticizing Sanders and calling him a socialist. "As a naturalized citizen originally from Sweden, I'd like to remind Bernie Sanders that Sweden is not socialist. For example, it has lower corporate tax rates than the United States, offers school choice, and has no death tax." "We remind our fellow citizens that a government big enough to give you everything you want is a government big enough to take away everything that you have. America will never be a socialist country," the chairman wrote. Next, the Vermont senator will travel to Los Angeles for a rally at Grand Park across from Los Angles City Hall, 200 N. Grand Avenue, at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. RSVP here. The California tour will wrap up in San Francisco on Sunday with a 12:30 p.m. rally at Great Meadow Park at Fort Mason, Bay Street. RSVP here. Sanders challenged Hillary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primary. He became renowned for long, impassioned stump speeches in which he railed against political corruption. One of those rallies was held in San Diego County's National City but his campaign was accused of failing to pay for the event. More than a year after the rally, National City Mayor Ron Morrison told NBC 7 the Bernie Sanders Campaign still owed the city more than $31,000. After several attempts to reach the candidate, a collection agency, on behalf of the city, filed a lawsuit against the campaign in Vermont. Payment was received in Oct. 2017, nearly a year-and-a-half following the May 2016 rally, according to the city. The race for the Democratic presidential nomination is already filled with a dozen candidates, including New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, California Sen. Kamala Harris failed Senate candidate from Texas, Beto O'Rourke. An Ethiopian Airlines jet faltered and crashed Sunday shortly after takeoff from the country's capital, carving a gash in the earth and spreading global grief to 35 countries that had someone among the 157 people who were killed. There was no immediate indication why the plane went down in clear weather while on a flight to Nairobi, the capital of neighboring Kenya. The crash was strikingly similar to that of a Lion Air jet that plunged into the sea off Indonesia minutes after takeoff last year, killing 189 people. Both accidents involved the Boeing 737 Max 8. The crash shattered more than two years of relative calm in African skies, where travel had long been chaotic. It also was a serious blow to state-owned Ethiopian Airlines, which has expanded to become the continent's largest and best-managed carrier and turned Addis Ababa into the gateway to Africa. "Ethiopian Airlines is one of the safest airlines in the world. At this stage we cannot rule out anything," CEO Tewolde Gebremariam told reporters. He visited the crash site, standing in the gaping crater flecked with debris. Black body bags were spread out nearby while Red Cross and other workers looked for remains. As the sun set, the airline's chief operating officer said the plane's flight data recorder had not yet been found. Around the world, families were gripped by grief. At the Addis Ababa airport, a woman called a mobile number in vain. "Where are you, my son?" she said, in tears. Others cried as they approached the terminal. Henom Esayas, whose sister's Nigerian husband was killed, told The Associated Press they were startled when a stranger picked up their frantic calls to his mobile phone, told them he had found it in the debris and promptly switched it off. Shocked leaders of the United Nations, the U.N. refugee agency and the World Food Program announced that colleagues had been on the plane. The U.N. migration agency estimated some 19 U.N.-affiliated employees were killed. Both Addis Ababa and Nairobi are major hubs for humanitarian workers, and many people were on their way to a large U.N. environmental conference set to begin Monday in Nairobi. The Addis Ababa-Nairobi route links East Africa's two largest economic powers. Sunburned travelers and tour groups crowd the Addis Ababa airport's waiting areas, along with businessmen from China, Gulf nations and elsewhere. A list of the dead released by Ethiopian Airlines included passengers from China, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Nepal, Israel, India and Somalia. Kenya lost 32 citizens. Canada, 18. Several countries including the United States lost four or more people. Global nonprofit organization Save the Children said one of its employees Tamirat Mulu Demessie, who worked at the group's U.S. headquarters in Connecticut was killed in the crash. Georgetown University confirmed that a third-year law student from Kenya, Cedric Asiavugwa, was killed in the crash. He was on his way home to Nairobi following the death of his fiancee's mother, according to a statement from the university. Ethiopian officials declared Monday a day of mourning. At the Nairobi airport, hopes quickly dimmed for loved ones. "I just pray that he is safe or he was not on it," said Agnes Muilu, who had come to pick up her brother. The crash is likely to renew questions about the 737 Max , the newest version of Boeing's popular single-aisle airliner, which was first introduced in 1967 and has become the world's most common passenger jet. Indonesian investigators have not determined a cause for the October crash, but days after the accident Boeing sent a notice to airlines that faulty information from a sensor could cause the plane to automatically point the nose down. The Lion Air cockpit data recorder showed that the jet's airspeed indicator had malfunctioned on its last four flights, though the airline initially said problems had been fixed. Safety experts cautioned against drawing too many comparisons between the two crashes until more is known about Sunday's disaster. The Ethiopian Airlines CEO "stated there were no defects prior to the flight, so it is hard to see any parallels with the Lion Air crash yet," said Harro Ranter, founder of the Aviation Safety Network, which compiles information about accidents worldwide. The Ethiopian plane was new, delivered to the airline in November. The Boeing 737 Max 8 was one of 30 meant for the airline, Boeing said in July. The jet's last maintenance was on Feb. 4, and it had flown just 1,200 hours. The plane crashed six minutes after departure , plowing into the ground at Hejere near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, some 50 kilometers (31 miles) outside Addis Ababa, at 8:44 a.m. The jet showed unstable vertical speed after takeoff, air traffic monitor Flightradar 24 said. The senior Ethiopian pilot, who joined the airline in 2010, sent out a distress call and was given clearance to return to the airport, the airline's CEO told reporters. In the U.S., the Federal Aviation Administration said it would join the National Transportation Safety Board in assisting Ethiopian authorities with the crash investigation. Boeing planned to send a technical team to Ethiopia. The last deadly crash of an Ethiopian Airlines passenger flight was in 2010, when a plane went down minutes after takeoff from Beirut, killing all 90 people on board. African air travel has improved in recent years, with the International Air Transport Association in November noting "two years free of any fatalities on any aircraft type." Sunday's crash comes as the country's reformist young prime minister, Abiy Ahmed, has vowed to open up the airline and other sectors to foreign investment in a major transformation of the state-centered economy. Speaking at the inauguration in January of a new passenger terminal in Addis Ababa to triple capacity, the prime minister challenged the airline to build a new "Airport City" terminal in Bishoftu where Sunday's crash occurred. Monday is the last day customers can use their Payless ShoeSource gift card and merchandise credit. The Topeka, Kansas-based retailer, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Feb. 18, will begin to shutter its remaining stores in North America at the end of this month after receiving a court approval to support the orderly closing of about 2,500 stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada, as well as its e-commerce business. All stores across the country will be closed by the end May. The shoe chain began holding going-out-of-business sales last month at its North American stores and said it would honor gift cards and store credit through March 11. March 1 was the last day for returns and exchanges of merchandise purchased before Feb. 17. Its Payless Rewards program has also been discontinued. Payless shut down its e-commerce shop on Feb. 15, but said it will continue sell its merchandise online through third-party sites, such as Amazon, for the time being. The liquidation doesn't affect its franchise operations or its Latin American stores, which remain open for business as usual, it said. The debt-burdened chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection a first time in April 2017, closing hundreds of stores as part of its reorganization. "The challenges facing retailers today are well documented, and unfortunately, Payless emerged from its prior reorganization ill-equipped to survive in today's retail environment," said Stephen Marotta, Payless ShoeSource's chief restructuring officer, last month. He noted that the prior Chapter 11 proceedings left the company with too much debt and with too many stores. A rash of unrelated shootings across New York City over two days has left one man dead and four other people injured, including a 13-year-old boy, police said. The shootings took place between Thursday evening and Friday night in the Bronx and Brooklyn, the NYPD said. A 26-year-old man was found with gunshot wounds to his torso on Washington Avenue in Prospect Heights on Friday night, police said. Courtney Tingle, of Brooklyn, was pronounced dead at Methodist Hospital. On Friday afternoon in the Bronx, a person opened fire on a man sitting in his vehicle on Forest Avenue in the Morrisania neighborhood, police said. The 38-year-old victim was shot several times and hospitalized in stable condition. The suspect ran off. On Thursday evening, two people walked up to a 16-year-old boy on 143rd Street in the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx, police said. They were armed and one of them shot the teen in the head, leaving him in critical but stable condition. On Friday night in the Crotona Avenue in the Crotona neighborhood of the Bronx, a man and a 13-year-old boy were shot, police said. Both were expected to survive. No one had been arrested in any of the shootings. Investigations were ongoing. A worker at a car wash was run over and killed Saturday morning by a driver who had come to clean his car, police said. Nassau County police said they believed the crash at Empire Car Wash on the Hempstead Turnpike in Elmont was an accident. The driver approached the back entrance when he suddenly sped up, hitting the employee against a wall, police said. Eduardo Sosa, 53, of Elmont, was taken to a hospital where he died, police said. A vintage plane that went from flying passengers in the 1950s to running drugs in the 1970s visited Times Square on Saturday before its next transformation into a cocktail lounge at the former TWA terminal at Kennedy Airport. The fuselage of the 1958 Lockheed Constellation is spending the weekend in Times Square as part of an upcoming documentary about the redevelopment of Eero Saarinen's landmark TWA Flight Center into a hotel. The plane arrived in New York in November from Maine, where it was being restored. It was trucked Friday night from Kennedy Airport to Times Square, where the same model plane was featured in an eight-story billboard in the late 1950s. The Constellation, known as Connie, flew for TWA for three years before it was forced into retirement by the Boeing 707. It was later used as an Alaskan bush plane and then was used as a marijuana dropper by South American drug traffickers. The plane was bought last year by MCR/MORSE Development, the developers of the soon-to-open TWA Hotel. MCR CEO Tyler Morse said the vintage plane will serve as a cocktail lounge at the hotel. "We're trying to recreate the theater of the hotel and make it a special experience," he said Saturday. The 512-room TWA Hotel is scheduled to open in May and will be the only hotel on the airport's grounds. It is intended as an homage to the era when Saarinen's gull-winged TWA Flight Center opened in 1962. The terminal closed in 2001 when TWA was acquired by American Airlines. Mayor Bill de Blasio, who joined Morse at an event to welcome the vintage plane to Times Square, said the landmark TWA terminal is "going to be a vibrant hotel and conference space, and part of our city again." What to Know An NY woman is suing the cemetery where her parents are buried for $5M over an alleged sinkhole that she says nearly sucked her into a grave An attorney for Joanne Cullen claims a grave next to her parents' apparently had a void in it that created the sinkhole; she started to sink A spokeswoman for the Diocese of Brooklyn, of which the cemetery is a part, says it plans to "vigorously dispute the nature of the suit" A 64-year-old Long Island woman is suing a local cemetery for traumatic brain injuries, PTSD and other problems she says she suffered when a sinkhole allegedly nearly sucked her into her parents' grave during a 2016 visit. Joseph Perrini, an attorney for the woman, Joanne Cullen, confirmed his client is suing St. Johns Cemetery Corp., which runs the St. Charles and Resurrection/Cemeteries where her parents are buried, for $5 million over the alleged December 2016 nightmare six days before Christmas. Court papers cited by The New York Post claim Cullen leaned over to adjust a wreath by her parents' shared headstone and suddenly found herself sinking. She fell forward and smashed her head on the tombstone, leading to a cracked tooth. Then, her attorney claims, she grabbed onto the headstone to keep from sinking further and ended up hip-deep. Perrini told News 4 a grave next to to Cullen's parents' apparently had some kind of void in it that created the sinkhole. "Getting sucked into your parents grave when you go to visit them on a cool December afternoon with the sun going down its terrifying and traumatizing, he told the Post. Cullen is now afraid to go back to the cemetery, fearful of walking in open, grassy land and suffers from headaches and nightmares, Perrini told the paper. She also needed counseling, he said. The lawsuit was filed in Queens Supreme Court. In a statement Tuesday, a spokeswoman for the Diocese of Brooklyn, of which the cemetery is a part, said the cemetery "plans to vigorously dispute the nature of this lawsuit." President Donald Trump may be reveling in what he sees as "complete and total exoneration" from special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation, but his legal perils are far from over. Federal and state investigators in New York are deep into investigations of their own into Trump and those in his orbit, probes that some observers have long viewed as every bit as menacing as Mueller's two-year look into possible collusion with Russia to influence the 2016 presidential election. "They are very real and very significant," said Patrick J. Cotter, a former federal prosecutor in the Southern District of New York. "If you're Trump, this has got to feel, in some ways, like an even greater threat than the Russia probe." Federal prosecutors in Manhattan are pursuing at least two known criminal inquiries, one focused into possible corruption in Trump's inaugural committee and another on the hush-money scandal that led his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, to plead guilty last year to campaign-finance violations. The president also faces inquiries from New York's attorney general, Letitia James, who recently opened a civil inquiry into Cohen's claims that Trump exaggerated his wealth when seeking loans for real estate projects and in a failed bid to buy the NFL's Buffalo Bills. Meanwhile, a state regulatory entity is looking into whether Trump gave false information to insurance companies. Cohen told Congress in testimony last month he is in "constant contact" with prosecutors involving ongoing investigations. Trump has dismissed the New York investigations as politically motivated harassment, a theme he and his supporters are likely to keep hammering in the wake of the Mueller findings. The Justice Department declared Sunday that Mueller's two-year investigation found no evidence that Trump's campaign "conspired or coordinated" with Russia to influence the 2016 presidential election, and did not come to a definitive answer on whether Trump obstructed justice. Reacting to the findings in Florida on Sunday, Trump called the Mueller probe "an illegal takedown that failed." The U.S. attorney's office in Manhattan declined to comment on the New York probes but has told a federal judge it is still investigating campaign-finance violations committed when Cohen helped orchestrate six-figure payments to a porn actress, Stormy Daniels, and a former Playboy model, Karen McDougal, to keep them quiet during the campaign about alleged affairs with Trump. Cohen says Trump ordered the payments and later reimbursed him for his efforts. So far, nobody besides Cohen has been charged. Political observers have continued to speculate that Cohen, who is scheduled to report to prison in May, might secretly be providing investigators with additional information. "If you've got Michael Cohen, the president's former lawyer, as a tour guide, that means you could go anywhere," former Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey told MSNBC recently. Cohen stoked speculation when he told Congress he was aware of other "wrongdoing" involving Trump but couldn't talk about it because it was "part of the investigation that's currently being looked at by the Southern District of New York." Among other things, he suggested prosecutors were investigating communications he had with either Trump or one of his representatives in spring 2018 in the months after the FBI raided his home and office. At the time, Cohen was looking for information about whether Trump might consider giving him a pardon. The president has denied breaking any laws and dismissed Cohen as a liar. He derided the state investigations in New York as a "witch hunt," calling the state and its Democratic governor and attorney general "proud members of the group of PRESIDENTIAL HARASSERS." Trump says the payments to Daniels and McDougal were a private matter unrelated to his campaign. The White House has said Trump was not involved in the operations of his inaugural committee, which raised $107 million to celebrate his election. The inquiry into the committee has focused partly on whether donors received "benefits" after making contributions or whether foreign nationals made barred donations, according to a subpoena sent to the committee. The same document shows prosecutors are looking at whether the committee's vendors were paid with unreported donations. The U.S. Justice Department has held for nearly a half-century that a sitting president is constitutionally immune from criminal prosecution, a conclusion Cotter, the former prosecutor, referred to as Trump's "ace in the hole." If prosecutors find evidence Trump committed a crime, they could wait to charge him after he leaves office, though the legal deadline for filing charges is five years for most federal offenses, including the campaign-finance violations in question in the Cohen case. The possibility of Trump's re-election has raised questions about whether that deadline could be tolled suspended for the duration of his presidency. Jennifer Rodgers, a former federal prosecutor in the Southern District of New York, said it's unlikely a judge would allow that because no law expressly forbids charges against a sitting president. Tolling the statute of limitations is typically reserved for circumstances beyond the government's control, like when a defendant becomes a fugitive. "The DOJ, in fact, could proceed with a case" against the president, said Rodgers, who lectures at Columbia Law School. "They aren't because of their own policy." James, New York's attorney general, also has a pending lawsuit alleging Trump and his family illegally ran the Trump Foundation as an extension of his businesses and presidential campaign. And she has called for a "full examination" of a New York Times report accusing Trump's family of benefiting from "dubious tax schemes" in the 1990s. The foundation has agreed to dissolve. Its lawyers have argued that the lawsuit is flimsy and politically motivated. Experts have said the president is unlikely to be criminally prosecuted over the tax matters, which are far past the statute of limitations, but state officials could pursue Trump for millions of dollars in civil fines. Beto O'Rourke leaves room for voters to decide for themselves what he is and what he could be. He's Bobby Kennedy and Barack Obama. He's nothing new. He'd be a great vice president. He's a man whose candidacy will be a melted candle in a matter of months. He's exactly what this nation needs. In interviews with more than 30 voters as O'Rourke campaigned for president in New Hampshire this week, the former Texas congressman meant conflicting things to different voters, though passion, one way or the other, was much more common than any semblance of passivity. There's still plenty of time before the state's first-in-the-nation primary, and O'Rourke has a lot of convincing to do if he wants to make a dent in the large 2020 Democratic primary field. "We're blessed with so many good candidates," said Kathleen O'Donnell, a 55-year-old attorney, as she waited through an hourlong delay for O'Rourke to arrive for his first event over a two-day visit. "So, it's like, 'Well, why are you doing this?'" The O'Rourke experience, as it rolled through New Hampshire, happened the way some Democrats fear has become the candidate's trademark: He can play it "too cute," they say, with his informal style and approach to social media and campaigning. Others acknowledged that he's the kind of guy voters know they've seen before but want to see again. The concerns that he is high on charisma but light on policy are there, however. O'Rourke is clearly very bright, said 72-year-old retired teacher Linda Fuerst. He knows how to move people, how to charm people. "And he's very appealing," she said. "But I have no idea, really, what his substance is. So, I'm just not going to let myself go for him just because I like him." If criticism of any kind bothers O'Rourke, he doesn't show it. "I'm trying to do better," he told a crowd of reporters, a common refrain from event to event. Some saw that as a cop-out, a rookie move from a novice candidate. Others saw it as another sign of authenticity, the kind they find from a man who will stand on a chair and talk to a crowd that has spilled out from an at-capacity venue in the hope of getting what they came to see. They don't mind that he lost the U.S. Senate race in Texas to Republican Ted Cruz last fall and is now running for president. The loss comes off to them like a proud battle scar rather than a mortal wound for the future. New Hampshire voters have long memories. They're willing to fall in love, but not right away. They've been burned before and know it could happen again. Walking away from O'Rourke's events, some voters filled in the gaps in his resume with what they can't explain. "He's got it," several said after seeing him in person for the first time. Gino Funicella, a 77-year-old who works in marketing, left O'Rourke's stop at a brewery saying he'll support him. "I definitely think he'll be president," Funicella said. "And I don't know why. I just feel that." He's the kind of candidate who has young voters, who weren't alive for the likes of John or Bobby Kennedy and barely remember the rise of Obama, thinking of the Democratic icons who have come before him. "I was really young when Obama started running, but I definitely see a lot of Obama vibes," said Tim Ennis, a 19-year-old college student wearing a "Beto for Texas" shirt who drove from Massachusetts to see O'Rourke speak in Keene. "I love history, so I really get a lot of Bobby Kennedy or JFK vibes from him, especially with Bobby's kind of energizing movements to young people," Ennis said. "I definitely see that in Beto's candidacy." If one thing is clear so far, it's that O'Rourke can draw a crowd. All his public events in New Hampshire were advertised by his campaign the same way: "Space is limited." "We will be back!" O'Rourke told the last crowd of his New Hampshire trip that had spilled out onto the street outside a coffee shop in Laconia. "We will find a larger space." O'Rourke isn't the only 2020 Democratic candidate with packed rooms and fans wanting photos. Sens. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Bernie Sanders of Vermont received similar receptions. Some say O'Rourke is a student of politics at a time when his competitors are tenured professors. They've run for president before (Sanders). They've run more statewide races (Harris). They actually were tenured professors (Warren). He's a work in progress, he's well aware. But people who have warmed to O'Rourke don't seem to mind. "We'd love to see you in the White House," 76-year-old John Law, a retired government worker, told O'Rourke as he waded through a crowd of onlookers and into a coffee shop. Law didn't stick around to see O'Rourke's last speech. The coffee shop was too full. Besides, Law had already gotten the face time he wanted with O'Rourke. "I like his thoughts," Law said. "I like the way he speaks." Other voters, like 70-year-old college professor Leslie Smith, watched O'Rourke's speech from the street outside the venue where his voice could barely be heard. She could tick off what made O'Rourke so appealing from a curbside view: He's got lots of energy, he's very good-looking, he's young, he's got a cool name. "But God, the country needs more than that," she said. Special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election has ended without additional indictments. The investigation has stretched over nearly two years, leading to a slew of criminal charges, including against three of President Donald Trump's close associates: personal lawyer Michael Cohen, former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his first national security adviser, Michael Flynn. Trump has deemed the probe a "witch hunt" aimed at embarrassing him, a refrain picked up by some Republican lawmakers and many of Trump's supporters. Democrats have fought to ensure that Mueller's investigation be kept impartial. It began in May 2017, a week after Trump fired FBI Director James Comey Trump told NBC News that, when he decided to fire Comey, he was thinking, "this Russia thing with Trump and Russia is a made-up story." Trump Associates Indicted or Convicted During His Presidency When President Donald Trumps former campaign chairman Paul Manafort was convicted on eight felony counts on Aug. 21, 2018, he became the first member of Trumps campaign to be found guilty. Several other Trump associates have pleaded guilty, including the president's former personal attorney Michael Cohen, who did so within minutes of Manaforts conviction, and again on Nov. 29, 2018. On Jan. 25, 2019, Roger Stone became the sixth Trump aide to face criminal charges. The seven-count indictment against Stone, Trump's long-time confidant, accuses him of witness tampering, obstruction and false statements about his interactions related to WikiLeaks. Click each photo to learn more. Here is a brief timeline of the probe since then: May 17, 2017: Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein appoints Mueller, a former FBI director who worked under Republican and Democratic presidents. Rosenstein said, "the public interest requires me to place this investigation under the authority of a person who exercises a degree of independence from the normal chain of command." Los republicanos piensan someter a votacion este proyecto de ley antes del feriado del 4 de julio. Oct. 5, 2017: Trump campaign foreign policy adviser George Papadopoulos pleads guilty to lying to the FBI about his communications with Russia, the first guilty plea revealed in Mueller's probe. Oct. 30, 2017: The first indictments in the investigation are unsealed against former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his deputy, Rick Gates. The charges covered a range of crimes, including bank fraud, lying on taxes and conspiracy. Both pleaded not guilty. Dec. 1, 2017: Former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn pleads guilty to lying to the FBI about his communications with Russia. He began cooperating with Mueller's probe. Feb. 16, 2018: Mueller brings the first indictments tied to Russian interference in the 2016 election, against 13 Russians and three Russian citizens who allegedly meddled in it. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein announces indictments against 13 Russians and three Russian entities accused of meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Feb. 23, 2018: Gates pleads guilty to conspiracy and lying to the FBI. He also began cooperating with Mueller's prosecutors. July 13, 2018: Twelve Russian intelligence officials are indicted for allegedly hacking Democratic officials and stealing information of about 500,000 Americans. Aug. 21, 2018: Prosecutors get the probe's first victory in court as Manafort is found guilty on eight counts, while a mistrial was declared on 10 more. The next month, Manafort pleads guilty to two more counts and agrees to cooperate with Mueller. Former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort was found guilty of eight counts of bank and tax fraud on Tuesday. A federal jury deadlocked on the 10 other charges. Nov. 26, 2018: Prosecutors claim Manafort broke the cooperation agreement, later telling the court that he told "multiple discernible lies." Nov. 29, 2018: In a deal with Mueller's team, Michael Cohen, Trump's former personal attorney, pleads guilty to lying to Congress about a proposed Trump development in Moscow and Cohen's contacts with Russian officials. He was sentenced to two months in prison for those lies, part of a three-year sentence that also included a guilty plea to campaign finance violations. Jan. 25, 2019: Longtime Trump associate Roger Stone is arrested in a pre-dawn raid in Florida and indicted on obstruction, lying and witness tampering charges. Stone later pleaded not guilty. Another confidant of President Donald Trump was arrested during the course of special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into possible Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Roger Stone was charged with witness tampering, obstruction and lying to authorities. March 7, 2019: Manafort is sentenced to 47 months in prison on bank and tax fraud charges, a far shorter term than what the sentencing guidelines called for, though the longest sentence to date in Mueller's probe. March 13, 2019: A separate federal judge adds three-and-a-half more years to Manafort's sentence on the conspiracy charges, bringing the former Trump campaign manager's sentence to seven-and-a-half years in prison, with credit for nine months of time served. March 22, 2019: Mueller submits his confidential report on the findings of his investigation to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, who releases a short summary of it two days later. The summary says Mueller found no collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia and that there wasn't enough evidence to bring obstruction of justice charges. Attorney General William Barr addressed the media prior to his departments release of special counsel Robert Muellers report to Congress. April 18, 2019: Barr releases the 448-page report to the public after holding a news conference reiterating his conclusions. The report broadly confirms Barr's summary, though it also details how Trump tried to influence the investigation, saying he was unsuccessful largely because his staffers "declined to carry out orders or accede to his requests." Inside the Saxbys coffee shop at Drexel University, Alyssa Bennett, 21, makes deposits, sets schedules, and pitches in at the latte machine when the line gets long. The third-year Drexel student is what the Philadelphia-based company calls a "Student CEO," referring to cafe executive officer. In locations on or near college campuses in Pennsylvania, Washington, Georgia, and New Hampshire, the coffee company hands over operations to a local student for the semester, paying them above minimum wage to run the cafe full time while also receiving class credits. Drexel president John Fry called this twist on the campus coffeehouse "exactly the kind of thing that we want." "Another coffee shop? Who cares. But a student-run Saxbys? Great," he said. As academia becomes increasingly competitive in attracting top students and staff, universities are turning to retail to create study, work, and play environments that set themselves apart. Even as brick-and-mortar stores struggle to compete with online retailers, the upcoming generation of college students is fiercely brand-loyal and often prefers a hands-on shopping experience, research shows. "It's been a slow burn to get colleges to realize how critical the retail and restaurants scene plays on the college campus experience," said Doug Green, a managing principal at MSC Retail, whose MSC University unit focuses on retail real estate in higher education. "But it's really starting to snowball, and you're starting to see more and more schools recognize what they have, recognize what they need." Take the Saxbys on 34th Street. It is within walking distance of a Wawa, 7-Eleven, and Starbucks. A Chipotle, Insomnia Cookies, Blaze Pizza, and Drexel's food court Urban Eatery are nearby. "Just having a campus environment where you know there's so much available to you, you can walk down the street . and pass three coffee shops I think that really pushes people to come to college campuses," Bennett said. "I know when I was touring campuses, I was, like, 'Well, is there a coffee shop in the business building?' Because I want to be able to access coffee whenever I can. Especially a cafe like this with such a great environment for people to come meet and study and hang out. It really drives home that Drexel, or whatever college it's on, is a place where you want to be." Tracking the college generation's shopping habits could also be a good indicator of their future tendencies, experts say. For Saxbys CEO Nick Bayer, the university locations gave the company insight into the emerging demand for cold brew coffee over regular hot coffee. This happened "far sooner" at college campuses, he said, and the company responded by creating a cold brew collection with signature flavors. This has since spread to the company's non-college locations. "Our more urban cafes in places like Drexel, we're seeing a nice glimpse into what sort of trends and buying profiles future consumers are looking for because we're serving that 18- to 24-year-old so closely," Bayer said. Gen Z Penn has invested in commercial development for decades now, but it has adapted to provide amenities that meet the needs of its changing population. Although retail used to be mostly service-oriented, Ed Datz, Penn's real estate executive director, said the university is now attracting more experiential retailers, expressed in some ways by the homegrown food hall, Franklin's Table. Penn courted Philadelphia-based companies and alumni to open locations at the food hall, resulting in a mix of cuisine, such as falafel from Goldie, breakfast sandwiches from High Street Provisions, burgers from KQ Burger, Kensington Quarters' fast-casual model, and acai bowls from the Juice Merchant. This gives local retailers exposure to a new market and insight into changing buying habits. Students also get access to diverse and unique Philadelphia foods. "We have to make it an attractive place with needed amenities in order to be a magnet for talent," said Tony Sorrentino, a Penn assistant vice president. "You can't be in an ivory tower." Even while online shopping carves out more of the market, a National Retail Federation survey showed that 67 percent of the younger generation, called Gen Z, said they prefer to shop in a store most of the time. Big-name retailers have also taken notice of this trend. Target opened seven of its smaller-format stores on or near college campuses last year, and the company announced plans to open about 30 stores annually in the next few years. There are locations across the country, including the University of California-Berkeley, the University of Cincinnati, University of Texas-Austin, Florida State University, the University of Maryland, and Boston University. Orange Theory Fitness, a boutique fitness studio chain, opened a location in University City this year, brokered by MSC. Carlisle, Pa.-based Giant Food Markets announced last month that it will be expanding its urban store concept, Giant Heirloom, to University City, among other neighborhoods. "If you can hook them young, and you can get them engaged, you can be a presence in their lives during these formative years," said Katherine Cullen, the NRF's director of consumer and industry insights. After the success last year at the Penn food hall, Michael Pasquarello, the owner of 13th Street Kitchens restaurant group, KQ Burger's parent, said he hopes to open two more KQ Burger locations within a year. "It's turning people on to our 13th Street Kitchens brand as a whole, and we use that as a marketing strategy there for sure because these young students turn into young professionals and they're Penn students, so they generally do pretty good out there," Pasquarello said. "It's a nice little circle of life." *** It hasn't always been a virtuous circle for universities and their environs. While relationships have probably improved over the years, there continue to be tensions. It's important to think about development in a way that benefits both the university and surrounding community, said Tayyib Smith, principal at Little Giant Creative agency, which helped develop an exhibit called "A Dream Deferred," to examine the effects of redlining, aka denying loans in Philadelphia neighborhoods, including West Philly. "The history of universities and the black communities that they border are extremely complicated," Smith said, referring to the federal "urban renewal" policies of the 1950s and 1960s that Penn exploited to grab tracts of land in West Philadelphia and displace thousands of residents, mostly African Americans from the Black Bottom neighborhood. Universities "ought to own up to the mistakes of the past and try to correct them moving forward," said Omar Blaik, CEO of U3 Advisors, a real estate and economic development consulting firm that has worked with universities across the country. Blaik, who was Penn's senior vice president of facilities and real estate for nine years until March 2006, was instrumental in more than $2 billion in construction and real estate projects, including redevelopment of 40th Street and the Perelman Quad construction. "Retail as a strategy is not a transaction. Retail needs to be curated," Blaik said. Universities need to "create a market that is open to people from diverse backgrounds." University City hosts its annual Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll each summer, highlighting businesses between 43rd and 52nd Streets with $1 deals for the event. Though it's about a mile and a half away from campus, Penn included a description of the event on its university-run news page and mentioned such businesses as VIX Emporium, Black Hound Clay Studio, and The Nesting House. The university also promotes shopping around campus with its website, dubbed "Shop Penn," with a list of retailers, including the Last Word Bookshop, Piper Boutique, and United By Blue. David Adelman, the chief executive officer of Campus Apartments, a student housing company that has worked on many projects near colleges, said that, ultimately, he looks for retailers with a broad appeal. Keswick Cycle, a bike shop 500 feet from Locust Walk between 40th and 41st Streets, pays Campus Apartments below-market rate rent to operate in that location, said Brian Hackford, the shop's managing partner. The store, which has been open since fall 2011, saw 15 percent growth last year, Hackford said, not necessarily from the students, but from other residents of West Philadelphia. "We try to curate and kind of cater with a focus more on the community than just the students," Adelman said. U.S.-backed forces declared military victory over the Islamic State group in Syria on Saturday after liberating the last pocket of territory held by the militants, marking the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. The nearly five-year war that has devastated cities and towns across north Syria and Iraq ended in Baghouz, a minor border village where the cornered militants made their last stand, under a grueling siege for weeks. On Saturday, the Syrian Democratic Forces raised their bright yellow banner from a shell-pocked house where the militants once flew their notorious black flag. Below it stretched a field shattered by the battle, pitted by trenches and bomb craters and littered with scorched tents, twisted wreckage of burned out vehicles, unspent explosives and few remaining corpses. "Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved," tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF, referring to ISIS by its Arabic acronym. The fall of Baghouz brings to a close a nearly 5-year global campaign against the Islamic State group that raged in two countries, spanned two U.S. presidencies and saw a U.S.-led coalition unleash more than 100,000 strikes. The campaign has left a trail of destruction in cities in Iraq and Syria, likely killed tens of thousands and drove hundreds of thousands from their homes. The campaign put an end to the militants' proto-state, which at its height four years ago was the size of Britain and home to some 8 million people. But the extremist group still maintains a scattered presence and sleeper cells across Syria and Iraq. It's not known whether the group's leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is still alive or where he might be hiding. ISIS affiliates in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan and other countries continue to pose a threat, and the group's ideology has inspired so-called lone-wolf attacks that had little if any connection to its leadership. The "caliphate's" end also marks a new phase in Syria's civil war, now in its ninth year. The country is carved up, with the Iranian- and Russian-backed government of President Bashar Assad controlling the west, center and south, the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led forces holding the north and east, and Turkish allies controlling a pocket in the north. The fear now is of new conflict among those players. At a ceremony held later Saturday at the nearby al-Omar oil field base, a senior U.S. diplomat, William Roebuck, said the territorial defeat of the Islamic State group is a "critical milestone" that delivers a crushing and strategic blow to the extremist group. But he stressed it remains a significant threat. "We still have much work to do to achieve an enduring defeat of ISIS," he said. The commander in chief of the SDF, Gen. Mazloum Abdi, appealed for continued assistance to his group until the full eradication of the extremist group. He spoke at the ceremony during which fighters marched to a military band. The victory declaration sets the stage for President Donald Trump to begin withdrawing most of the 2,000 U.S. troops stationed in northern Syria, as he abruptly announced in December that he would do. Trump, however, later agreed to leave a small peacekeeping force of 200 soldiers in Syria to ensure Turkey will not get into a conflict with the SDF. Turkey views Kurdish members of the SDF as terrorists. The Kurds fear being abandoned by the Americans. They are squeezed between a belligerent Turkey from the north, which regards them as a national threat and Syrian President Bashar Assad's forces from the south. Saturday's announcement came a day after Trump declared that Islamic State militants no longer control any territory in Syria, a victory he had been teasing for days. Associated Press journalists in Baghouz on Saturday, however, reported hearing mortars and gunfire directed toward a cliff overlooking the village, where U.S.-led coalition airstrikes were carried out a day earlier. SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel said Friday there were ISIS fighters hiding in caves near Baghouz and that clearing operations were still underway. The site of ISIS's last stand was centered on a tent encampment in Baghouz where, unknown to the besieging SDF forces, thousands of civilians were holed up. During the weeks-long siege, an estimate 30,000 men, women and children were evacuated from the pocket, most of them ISIS family members, a mix of Syrians, Iraqis and foreigners. They were exhausted, hungry, many of them wounded and traumatized by the loss of relatives, but some remained die-hard supporters of the "caliphate." On Saturday, journalists were taken to the encampment a wasteland of wrecked vehicles, torn tents and scorched trees. A few bodies could be seen and a faint smell of rotting corpses hung in the air. Scattered across the dirt amid empty foxholes and trenches were personal belongings, blankets, generators, oil barrels, water tanks and satellite dishes. Cars and motorcycles were turned to rusted, twisted heaps of metal. There were unused rockets, mortars and grenades, as well as a pile of suicide vests. Ciya Kobani, an SDF commander, announced the end of the operation from the roof of the building with the SDF flag: "We have been victorious against Daesh," he declared. At its height, the Islamic State group ruled a third of both Syria and Iraq, holding millions hostage to its harsh and violent interpretation of Islamic law. The group carried out massacres and documented them with slickly produced videos circulated online. It beheaded foreign journalists and aid workers and burned alive a captured Jordanian pilot. During a rampage through Iraq's Sinjar region in 2014, it captured thousands of women and girls from the Yazidi religious minority and forced them into sexual slavery. Many remain missing to this day. The group also used its caliphate as a launchpad for attacks around the globe, including the assaults in Paris in 2015 that killed more than 130 people. French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted that "a major danger to our country is now eliminated, yet the threat remains and the fight against terrorist groups must continue." France has been a member of the coalition fighting the ISIS since 2014. While it imposed its unforgiving interpretation of Islamic law through public beheadings and crucifixions, the group also carried out the mundane duties of governance in its territories, including regulating prices at markets and repairing infrastructure. Cornered in Baghouz, the group fought fiercely and desperately to hang on to the last shred of territory it controlled, using thousands of civilians, including women and children, as human shields. In the final weeks, they streamed out of Baghouz, bedraggled, angry and hungry, overwhelming Kurdish-run camps in northern Syria where they are being held. Aid organizations say more than 100 people have died in the journey from Baghouz to the al-Hol camp in Hassakeh province, or soon after arriving. Associated Press writer Zeina Karam contributed to this report. There's no money, no sex and nothing illegal happened. This is what passes for a scandal in Canada. U.S. President Donald Trump has been engulfed in allegations involving possible collusion with Russia and secret payments to buy the silence of a porn star. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing a controversy that seems trivial by comparison, but it could topple him in elections later this year. Two high-profile women ministers in Trudeau's Cabinet, including Canada's first indigenous justice minister, resigned in protest, and his top aide and best friend quit too. The former justice minister and attorney general, Jody Wilson-Raybould, says Trudeau and senior members of his government pressured her in a case involving a major Canadian engineering company accused of corruption related to its business dealings in Libya. Trudeau reportedly leaned on the attorney general to instruct prosecutors to reach the equivalent of plea deal, which would avoid a criminal prosecution of SNC-Lavalin, because he felt that jobs were at stake. "People south of the border would be astonished to think that this is the type of scandal that they have in Canada," said Eddie Goldenberg, a former adviser to former Prime Minister Jean Chretien. Many countries would be jealous of a scandal that went no further than a prime minster asking another minister to do something she is legally entitled to do, Goldenberg said. "I just don't really see it as a scandal," he said. "There is a political correctness here. Nobody wants to go after an indigenous woman minister. It's become politically incorrect to question the former minister." Trudeau has said he asked Wilson-Raybould to revisit her decision not to instruct prosecutors and said she agreed to consider that. He denied applying any inappropriate pressure, saying he and his officials were only pointing out that prosecution could endanger thousands of jobs. SNC-Lavalin has pleaded not guilty to fraud and corruption charges related to allegations it paid about $35 million (CA$47 million) in bribes to public officials in Libya between 2001 and 2011. "It's a pseudo-scandal. It's crap. What the hell? You are doing business in Libya and you are not bribing?" said Robert Bothwell, a professor of Canadian history and international relations at the University of Toronto. "It does suggest to me that the director of public prosecutions ... is also nuts. And so is Wilson-Raybould. These people are delusional." Wilson-Raybould was demoted from her role as attorney general and justice minister in January as part of a Cabinet shuffle by Trudeau. She has testified that she believes she lost the justice job because she did not give in to "sustained" pressure to instruct the director of public prosecutions to negotiate a remediation agreement with SNC-Lavalin. That solution would have avoided a potential criminal conviction that would bar the company from receiving any federal government business for a decade. The company is a major employer in Quebec, Trudeau's home province. It has about 9,000 employees in Canada and more than 50,000 worldwide. The company publicly led the lobbying charge for a law that allows for deferred prosecution agreements as a way to resolve the criminal charges it faces. The new attorney general has not ruled out approving a settlement. Wilson-Raybould has said herself that the pressure from Trudeau and others was not illegal and that she was not explicitly instructed to do a remediation agreement. Gerald Butts, Trudeau's former principal secretary and best friend who resigned, said nothing inappropriate was alleged until after Wilson-Raybould left the Cabinet, suggesting she felt sour grapes about losing her dream job. Opposition Conservative Andrew Scheer leader has demanded that Trudeau resign, saying he tried to interfere in a criminal prosecution. Canadian media have covered the story as intensely as American networks have covered Trump, noted Nelson Wiseman, a professor at the University of Toronto. "Trudeau would not be able to get away with what Trump does because the political cultures and the state of political polarization of the two countries are still quite different," Wiseman said. The differences among Canadian media outlets, for example, are "relatively narrow compared to the chasms between Fox and MSNBC or CNN. The American media are reporting on two different worlds. The Canadian media are reporting on the same Wilson-Raybould-Trudeau story," Wiseman added. Daniel Beland, a politics professor at McGill University in Montreal, said Trudeau has framed himself differently than Trump. Trump said sympathetic things about Russia during the campaign and was elected despite that and other controversies, giving him "the sense that he can do anything and his base will still follow him." Trudeau, meanwhile, promised transparency while describing himself as a feminist who was also determined to right the wrongs against Canada's indigenous people. Women make up half of his cabinet. "He depicted himself as a feminist, as someone who believes in indigenous reconciliation, and then you have two of his top female Cabinet ministers resign, and they are depicting him in a very different light," Beland said. Trudeau said he tried to foster an environment where his lawmakers can come to him with concerns, but one of his female Liberal party colleagues, Celina Caesar-Chavannes, took issue with that, tweeting, "I did come to you recently. Twice. Remember your reactions?" "When you add women, please do not expect the status quo. Expect us to make correct decisions, stand for what is right and exit when values are compromised," she also tweeted. Caesar-Chavannes, who is not running for re-election, has issued messages of support for Wilson-Raybould and Jane Philpott, a respected Cabinet minister who said she lost confidence in how the government has handled the affair. "It is a fundamental doctrine of the rule of law that our Attorney General should not be subjected to political pressure or interference regarding the exercise of her prosecutorial discretion in criminal cases," Philpott wrote in the resignation letter to Trudeau. Other Liberal lawmakers have expressed confidence in Trudeau. The federal election is in October. Antonia Maioni, McGill University's dean of arts, said citizens of every democracy will look at the Trump scandals and say everything else is small potatoes. But, she added, "I'm not sure Trump is a good reference point here. Leaders fall in parliamentary systems for many other reasons beyond personal scandal." What to Know Special counsel Robert Mueller on Friday turned over his final report on Russian election meddling Attorney General William Barr said he will soon report to Congress on Mueller's findings Many Democrats called for the release of the entire Mueller report Special counsel Robert Mueller on Friday turned over his long-awaited final report on the contentious Russia investigation, ending a probe that has cast a dark shadow over Donald Trump's presidency with no new charges but launching a fresh wave of political battles over the still-confidential findings. The 22-month probe ended without additional indictments by Mueller despite public speculation by congressional Democrats and others that members of the president's family, including his oldest son, could themselves wind up facing charges. The Justice Department said the report was delivered by a security officer Friday afternoon to the office of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, and then it went to Attorney General William Barr. Word of the delivery triggered reactions across Washington, including Democrats' demands that it be released to the public and Republicans' contentions that it ended two years of wasted time and money. The next step is up to Barr, who is charged with writing his own account of Mueller's findings and sending it to Congress. In a letter to lawmakers , he declared he was committed to transparency and speed. He said he could provide the special counsel's "principal findings" to Congress this weekend, but that likely won't be the last of the information he provides to lawmakers or the public. The attorney general said the Justice Department had not denied any request from the special counsel, something Barr would have been required to disclose to ensure there was no political inference. The White House sought to keep some distance, saying it had not seen or been briefed on the document. With no details released at this point, it's not known whether Mueller's report answers the core questions of his investigation: Did Trump's campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favor of the celebrity businessman? Also, did Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? But the delivery of the report does mean the investigation has concluded without any public charges of a criminal conspiracy between the campaign and Russia, or of obstruction by the president. A Justice Department official confirmed Friday that Mueller was not recommending any further indictments. That person, who described the document as "comprehensive," was not authorized to discuss the probe and asked for anonymity. That's good news for a handful of Trump associates and family members dogged by speculation of possible wrongdoing. They include Donald Trump Jr., who had a role in arranging a Trump Tower meeting at the height of the 2016 election campaign with a Kremlin-linked lawyer, and Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who was interviewed at least twice by Mueller's prosecutor. It wasn't immediately clear whether Mueller might have referred additional investigations to the Justice Department. All told, Mueller charged 34 people, including the president's former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, his first national security adviser, Michael Flynn, and three Russian companies. Twenty-five Russians were indicted on charges related to election interference, accused either of hacking Democratic email accounts during the campaign or of orchestrating a social media campaign that spread disinformation on the internet. Five Trump aides pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with Mueller and a sixth, longtime confidant Roger Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied to Congress and engaged in witness tampering. It's unclear what steps Mueller will take if he uncovered what he believes to be criminal wrongdoing by Trump, in light of Justice Department legal opinions that have held that sitting presidents may not be indicted. The mere delivery of a confidential report set off swift, full-throated demands from Democrats for full release of Mueller's findings. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer declared it "imperative" to make the full report public, a call echoed by several Democrats vying to challenge Trump in 2020. "The American people have a right to the truth," Schumer and Pelosi said in a joint statement. Democrats also expressed concern that Trump would try to get a "sneak preview" of the findings. "The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public," they said in a joint statement. It was not clear whether Trump, who is spending the weekend at his resort in Mar-a-Lago, would have early access to Mueller's findings. Spokeswoman Sarah Sanders suggested the White House would not interfere, saying "we look forward to the process taking its course." But Trump's personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani, told The Associated Press the legal team would seek to get "an early look" at the findings before they were made public. He said it would be "appropriate" for the White House to be able "to review matters of executive privilege" but he had received no assurances from the Department of Justice. He later softened his stance, saying the decision was "up to DOJ and we are confident it will be handled properly." Barr's chief of staff called White House Counsel Emmet Flood Friday about 20 minutes before notifying lawmakers of the report's arrival. Barr's congressional letter went to the Republican and Democratic leaders of the Senate and House Judiciary committees. The chairman of the Senate panel, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, was keynote speaker Friday night at a Palm Beach County GOP dinner attended by Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Barr has said he wants to make as much public as possible, and that any efforts to withhold details will prompt a tussle between the Justice Department and lawmakers who may subpoena Mueller and his investigators to testify before Congress. Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., threatened a subpoena Friday. Such a move would likely be vigorously contested by the Trump administration. The conclusion of Mueller's investigation does not remove legal peril for the president . Trump faces a separate Justice Department investigation in New York into hush money payments during the campaign to two women who say they had sex with him years before the election. He's also been implicated in a potential campaign finance violation by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who says Trump asked him to arrange the transactions. Federal prosecutors, also in New York, have been investigating foreign contributions made to the president's inaugural committee. No matter the findings in Mueller's report, the investigation has already illuminated Russia's assault on the American political system, painted the Trump campaign as eager to exploit the release of hacked Democratic emails and exposed lies by Trump aides aimed at covering up their Russia-related contacts. The special counsel brought a sweeping indictment accusing Russian military intelligence officers of hacking Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign and other Democratic groups during the 2016 campaign. He charged another group of Russians with carrying out a large-scale social media disinformation campaign against the American political process that also sought to help Trump and hurt Clinton. Closer to the president, Mueller secured convictions against a campaign chairman who cheated banks and dodged his taxes, a national security adviser who lied about his Russian contacts and a campaign aide who misled the FBI about his knowledge of stolen emails. Cohen, the president's former lawyer, pleaded guilty in New York to campaign finance violations arising from the hush money payments and in the Mueller probe to lying to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. Another Trump confidant, Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied about his pursuit of Russian-hacked emails ultimately released by WikiLeaks. It's unclear whether any of the aides who have been convicted, all of whom have pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigators, might angle for a pardon. Trump has left open the idea of pardons. Along the way, Trump lawyers and advisers repeatedly evolved their public defenses to deal with the onslaught of allegations from the investigation. Where once Trump and his aides had maintained there were no connections between the campaign and Russia, by the end of the probe Trump attorney Giuliani was routinely making the argument that even if the two sides did collude, it wasn't necessarily a crime. The goalpost shifting reflected the administration's challenge in adopting a singular narrative to fend off allegations. Equally central to Mueller's work was his inquiry into whether the president tried to obstruct the investigation. Since the special counsel's appointment in May 2017, Trump has increasingly tried to undermine the probe by calling it a "witch hunt" and repeatedly proclaiming there was "NO COLLUSION" with Russia. But one week before Mueller's appointment, Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, later saying he was thinking of "this Russia thing" at the time. He mercilessly harangued Attorney General Jeff Sessions for recusing himself from the Russia investigation two months before Mueller was named special counsel, a move that left the president without a perceived loyalist atop the probe. And he helped draft a misleading statement on Air Force One as the Trump Tower meeting between his eldest son and a Kremlin-connected lawyer was about to become public. Even as Trump blasted Mueller's team, his White House and campaign produced thousands of documents for the special counsel, and dozens of his aides were interviewed. The president submitted written answers to Mueller regarding the Russia investigation, but he refused to be interviewed A rideshare passenger was killed and three others were injured when a DUI suspect plowed into a Lyft car overnight on a San Diego freeway, authorities confirmed. The deadly collision happened just after 2:30 a.m. along southbound State Route 163, north of Laurel Street near San Diego's uptown area. Both cars ended up drifting off the freeway, landing in a ditch off the shoulder. California Highway Patrol Sgt. Brent Lowry said the crash involved a white Mazda sedan which was a Lyft vehicle, carrying the driver with two passengers in the backseat and a 2016 Lexus sedan, carrying its driver. Lowry said one person was ejected from the Mazda. The three other victims of the crash suffered serious injuries, the sergeant said, and were all hospitalized. A few hours later, the CHP told NBC 7 that the driver of the Lexus -- a 21-year-old woman -- had rear-ended the Lyft car. She is suspected of driving under the influence, according to CHP. The DUI suspect suffered major injuries and was taken to Scripps Memorial Hospital. Lowry was also able to confirm that the person who died was one of the Lyft passengers: a 40-year-old man from San Francisco. He had been sitting on the left, in the backseat, and was wearing his seatbelt. Following the crash, the victim was stuck inside the Mazda and firefighters had to break apart the top of the car to remove the man's body. His name has not yet been released by investigators as they work to notify his family of his death. Lowry said the other passenger inside the Lyft was a 33-year-old man from San Leandro, California. That passenger was not wearing his seatbelt and was the person ejected from the rideshare vehicle. He suffered major injuries but survived and was also taken to Scripps Memorial Hospital. The Lyft driver, a 27-year-old Santee resident, was buckled in. He suffered moderate injuries and was taken to UC San Diego Medical Center, Lowry said. The deadly collision remains under investigation. Meanwhile, the freeway was shut down for about 20 minutes following the crash. At least one lane remained closed hours after the crash. A restaurant along the water at a San Diego resort was slapped with a $34,500 fine to settle a lawsuit filed by the city attorneys office after the eatery despite a warning continued to charge customers a hidden fee. City Attorney Mara Elliotts office confirmed Friday that Barefoot Bar & Grill a Mission Bay restaurant located inside Paradise Point Resort on Vacation Road had agreed to pay the hefty fine after failing to clearly disclose that it was adding a 3 percent surcharge to customers tabs. The city attorneys office said the eatery was one of more than 11 restaurants to receive a warning letter from Elliott after the businesses began adding the surcharge without properly disclosing the practice to patrons. Chris Chan/NBC 7 Elliotts office alleged the hidden surcharge was a violation of Californias False Advertising and Unfair Competition Law. Under the states Business and Professions Code, its illegal to make false or misleading statements in advertising, and Elliotts office argued that failure to disclose a surcharge on the cost of items on restaurant menus violates this law. If they are going to charge a surcharge, make that clear and conspicuous, as big a print as the price itself, Deputy City Attorney Mark Ankcorn told NBC 7. When you order a meal, you trust the menu to clearly state the price, Elliott said in a news release. It is dishonest, unfair, and illegal to dupe customers into paying a hidden charge after they get the bill. Protecting consumers is one of my priorities, and our office will continue to prosecute businesses that think they are above the law. A lawsuit has accused local restaurants of adding a surcharge to pay for a minimum wage hike. The claim alleges many customers are not aware of the fee until they receive the bill at the end of the meal. NBC 7s Wendy Fry reports. Elliott said the other restaurants heeded the warning from her office and changed their practices. However, Barefoot Bar & Grill did not, and continued with the hidden surcharge. Elliotts office said restaurant would disclose the fee to customers only in fine print, on some of its menus. The surprise came at the end of a meal when customers received their bill. The city attorneys office said it began getting consumer complaints of this hidden surcharge practice at some San Diego restaurants in 2017, after the minimum wage hike. Some eateries claimed the surcharges were government mandated when, in reality, they were not. Some restaurants also claimed the increase in minimum wage was hurting their business, prompting them to raise prices on menus and lay off staffers. Elliott said she would crack down on restaurants for the surcharge issue, and her office began serving warning letters to businesses. Most restaurants began appropriately disclosing the fees to customers or stopped adding the surcharge altogether. In November 2017, private lawsuits were filed against local restaurants also alleging surcharges violated laws meant to protect consumers from false advertising. The California Restaurant Association called the lawsuits nothing more than a shakedown. At that time, Elliotts office had already filed for legal action against Barefoot Bar & Grill. City Attorney Mara Elliot is spreading the message to the public that surcharges seen at restaurants after the minimum wage hike are not government mandated, though advertised as such at some establishments. NBC 7s Wendy Fry has the story. Elliotts office said Friday that most of the $34,500 settlement fee will go toward a public restitution fund that will be used for consumer education and minimum wage and surcharge investigations. NBC 7 reached out to Barefoot Bar & Grill for comment on this case but the restaurant has not yet responded. The restaurant is frequented by tourists and NBC 7 spoke with some people in the area Friday about the case. Many agreed the surcharge should be clearly communicated to customers. You should be aware of it ahead of time before, or it should be on the menu so you have the option to decide whether you want to eat there or not, said Philadelphia resident Christine Iuliano. I think if I would see a surcharge on there, I may not tip as much as I normally would, New Mexico resident Sam Trujillo told NBC 7. I would say, probably, it would be good to have it when you walk in the door -- we charge X surcharge before you even order your meal, added Colorado resident Bruce Osmond. The city attorneys office plans to continue keeping a watchful eye over the restaurant surcharge issue. Any consumers who believe they may have been victims of false advertising can call (619) 533-5800. A popular mixed martial arts fighter is suing a company he says didnt pay him for winning a fight. Chris Leben of San Diego said the World Bare Knuckle Fighting Federation (WBKFF) owes him $90,000. In November, Leben came out of retirement to compete in an event his friend, Tomasz Stankiewicz, was putting on through WBKFF. "I wanted to compete because I have a young son," said Leben. "I wanted to take that money and put it away for his college and his future." According to the lawsuit, Leben was promised $100,000 if he won the fight. He was given a $10,000 up front down payment as part of the agreement. Leben said he won the fight but was never paid the amount promised. "At least I got ten percent but a majority of the fighters in the match got zero," said Leben. "I had 10 different excuses from them where the money was." He has now taken WBKFF and Stankiewicz to court for $90,000 plus costs, attorneys fees and punitive damages for breach of contract, fraudulent deceipt, and intentional misrepresentation. Stankiewicz is currently in prison in Illinois for an unrelated case of wire fraud. A former publicist for WBKFF told NBC 7 on Thursday that Stankiewicz is the only employee still working for WBKFF. Two San Diego-area residents recently won a lot of scratch by scratching off a couple of very lucky lottery tickets. The California Lottery said Friday that two locals had won a combined $1.75 million. Chula Vista resident Gabriella Ralda won $750,000 playing Mystery Crossword Scratchers, while Jeremiah De Los Reyes won $1 million playing Holiday Sparkle Scratchers. Ralda, pictured above, purchased her winning ticket a 7-Eleven store at 1482 Hilltop Dr. in Chula Vista. She has claimed her prize with the lottery office and will receive the payout, less federal taxes, California Lottery officials said. Meanwhile, De Los Reyes bought his prize-winning ticket at a 7-Eleven store at 1469 State Street, near San Diegos Little Italy area. He has also come forward to claim his winnings, lottery officials said. The California Lottery said the 7-Eleven locations will each collect a retailer bonus of $5,000 for selling the winning tickets. Democratic presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg told voters Saturday that his marriage to his husband exists "by the grace of a single vote on the U.S. Supreme Court." The South Bend, Indiana, mayor visited South Carolina for the first time since announcing his presidential exploratory committee. The 37-year-old would be the first openly gay presidential nominee from a major political party. Buttigieg referenced the landmark 2015 Supreme Court ruling that granted, in a 5-4 decision, same-sex couples a right to marry. He married his husband, Chasten Glezman, last year. Speaking in Columbia, South Carolina, Buttigieg recalled when his father was undergoing chemotherapy and his mother learned she needed a triple bypass as an example of what's at stake in the 2020 presidential election. Buttigieg said Glezman was able to stay at the hospital with his mother while he went to tell his father because his husband "is a member of our family." Other highlights of Saturday's campaigning: CORY BOOKER New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said during a stop in South Carolina that he was "a little bit worried" about how the issue of reparations was being discussed during the presidential campaign. Booker told people crowded into a barbershop in Rock Hill that it was time to discuss the "persistent reality" of racism in this country, rather than worrying about how to handle a specific plan on reparations. South Carolina holds the first Southern primary and is the first place where candidates are tested by a primarily black Democratic electorate. Several candidates in the sprawling Democratic field have called President Donald Trump as a racist. Some have voiced support for the idea of reparations for the descendants of enslaved black Americans. Booker, who announced his candidacy at the start of Black History Month, has said it is time to recommit to the fight for justice in America. ELIZABETH WARREN Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren confronted the topic of climate change during a campaign stop in Berlin, New Hampshire, saying the government is badly out of sync is with the future of America. "We're not spending money on infrastructure right now, we're not even repairing what's falling apart in infrastructure, much less building an infrastructure for the 21st century, much less hardening an infrastructure against the kind of change that is coming in our direction," Warren said. The presidential contender railed against "giant drug companies" and emphasized a message of economic equality during her speech. Warren later praised the idea of the Green New Deal, saying she wanted to make a strong pitch in favor of it to voters. "We've got to have a goal that we're headed toward," she said. KAMALA HARRIS California Sen. Kamala Harris introduced her first policy proposal since officially launching her 2020 campaign: a significant federal investment in teacher pay. At a Houston rally, Harris pledged that by the end of her first term she would close a pay gap that she said amounts to teachers making about $13,000 a year less than other college graduates. Her campaign is citing a study from the liberal-leaning Economic Policy Institute that found what's called the "teacher pay penalty" the difference in compensation for teachers and comparable public workers is larger than ever. The Economic Policy Institute study puts the teacher compensation penalty at a record-high 11.1 percent in 2017. AMY KLOBUCHAR During a town hall in Rye, New Hampshire, Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar defended John McCain, the deceased military veteran and senator who has been the subject of scorn from President Donald Trump. Klobuchar called McCain her friend and said Trump's "ranting and raving" about the Arizona Republican led her to remember the last time she had seen the Arizona Republican, who ran for president in 2000 and 2008. Klobuchar and her husband visited McCain and his wife at their ranch. McCain was having trouble speaking, she remembered. He found one of his books and pointed out a quote to Klobuchar. "There is nothing more liberating than fighting for a cause larger than yourself," the quote read, she said. Trump, she said, doesn't understand that sentiment. PETE BUTTIGIEG At a stop in Greenville, South Carolina, Buttigieg told a crowd that his candidacy may seem unlikely, but added that maybe it was time the party nominated a millennial from a red state. He acknowledged the more "traditional" route to the White House is to spend years in Washington before running. But he said the country "would be better served if Washington started looking more like our best-run cities." Buttigieg said that as a millennial he has a greater stake in the future of the country and more urgency to tackle issues like climate change. Associated Press writers Meg Kinnard, Juana Summers and Paul J. Weber contributed to this report. Two people were shot and wounded outside a Northern Virginia shopping center late Friday night, and officers found a chaotic scene of more than 300 people when they arrived. The incident happened in the parking lot of Brookfield Plaza Shopping Center in the 7000 block of Brookfield Plaza in Springfield, according to Fairfax County Police. Police believe one of the businesses in the shopping center was hosting a private event Friday night when a fight broke out inside. The fight spilled out into the parking lot, where two people were shot, although police only encountered one victim that night. Fairfax County Police were called shortly after 11 p.m. for a man who had been shot multiple times. An officer nearby also heard the gunshots and requested help. Officers from three surrounding district stations and Virginia State Police also responded to manage the scene and get the crowds to disperse, police said. The first victim was found at the scene and taken to a local hospital with injuries considered life-threatening. He was still receiving medical treatment as of Saturday morning. Police did not learn about the second victim, a juvenile, until early Saturday morning when he went to at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to the leg about 4:15 a.m. Detectives are asking for anybody with information to contact the Major Crimes Bureau at 703-691-2131. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit a tip online at FairfaxCrimesolvers.org or text their tip to CRIMES (274637) by texting "TIP187" plus their message. A Maryland travel agent accused by customers of scamming them out of thousands of dollars by selling fake flights to Latin American destinations is behind bars again for violating her probation for a prior theft case. Lorena Balbuena Aguilar of Azteka Travel was in custody in Prince George's County, News4's sister station Telemundo 44 first reported. According to multiple people who spoke to Telemundo 44, all of whom are from the Latino community, the Hyattsville agency advertised airline tickets to destinations in Mexico and Central America through social media and other ads. After receiving cash or credit card payments from customers, an employee would allegedly promise to handle the ticket purchases from the airlines, but customers said the travel reservations were never made. When customers tried to contact the travel agency to resolve the problem or ask for a refund, they say they did not get a response. Telemundo 44 contacted 30 people who claimed to have been scammed. Some said they lost thousands of dollars. "It hurt to have lost that money because you work with so much sacrifice and for another person to come and take it like that, it is not fair," Maritza Osoro, one of the alleged victims, told Telemundo 44. Another woman said her family's dream to visit their homeland was stolen. "In my case, we were going [to El Salvador] after 12 years," Gladys Escobar said. "We were going on this trip with my mom, an aunt, my family." "I feel disappointed," she said. "Disappointed by the fact that a person from our community, especially a person who comes here, I think, with a dream to the United States, not to scam others." A Telemundo 44 investigation uncovered that 33-year-old Balbuena Aguilar had previous run-ins with the law. Court documents show that in 2017, Balbuena Aguilar pleaded guilty to charges of theft. She was sentenced to five years of probation and was ordered to pay back nearly $34,000. Balbuena Aguilar was taken into custody on March 6 for violating her probation. She faces multiple theft charges and is set to appear in court on April 1. Balbuena Aguilar's husband, Luis Lopez, appeared in court Thursday after two families sued him and alleged that he participated in the theft since Azteka Travel was registered in his name. One family said they were able to reach a settlement with Lopez. The second family was unable to come to an agreement with him. According to multiple people who spoke with Telemundo 44, Balbuena Aguilar signed the checks for the fake travel arrangements under Lopez's name. "What I thought was strange on the papers was, why was she signing under the name of Luis Lopez? So who was Luis Lopez?" Fidelina Martinez, one of the alleged victims told Telemundo 44. If you believe you have been a victim of Azteka Travel, contact Prince George's County police to file a complaint. You can also contact the Consumer Protection Division of the Maryland Office of the Attorney General by emailing consumer@oag.state.md.us or calling 301-386-6200. Two years after New Mexico's largest county barred local law enforcement from cooperating with immigration authorities, its leaders learned that the policy was being subverted from within. Staff members at the Bernalillo County jail in Albuquerque were still granting immigration authorities access to its database and, in some cases, tipping them off when a person of interest was being released. "I was surprised and horrified," said Maggie Hart Stebbins, chairwoman of the Bernalillo County Commission. "Individual employees do not have the freedom to pick and choose what they want to observe." The disclosure last month cast a spotlight on an often-overlooked way in which immigration officials around the U.S. may be getting around local "sanctuary" policies through informal relationships with police and others willing to cooperate when they're not supposed to. Immigration activists say they have seen it places like Philadelphia, Chicago and several communities in California, which has a statewide sanctuary law. On Wednesday, for example, the American Civil Liberties Union reported that emails show that a detective in Orange County, California, regularly looked up license plate information for an immigration officer. "Often people underestimate the informal relationship between ICE and local law enforcement," said Sara Cullinane, director of the immigrant-rights organization Make the Road New Jersey. She said a major way to make sure immigrant-friendly ordinances are being obeyed is training officers about what they can and cannot do. Over 100 local governments around the country have adopted a variety of sanctuary rules barring police and jails from cooperating with immigration authorities, often by refusing to hold people arrested on local charges past their release date at the request of immigration officers who intend to pick them up. Immigration and Customs Enforcement says these types of policies have made the streets less safe. The restrictions have also led the agency in the past couple of years to find other ways to make arrests, such as by staking out courthouses for immigrants, a practice ICE had generally avoided. In 2017, the governing commission in Bernalillo County, population 680,000, barred the use of county money, resources or personnel to enforce civil immigration laws. County employees are not allowed to investigate, question or apprehend people based on their immigration status. Last month, Bernalillo County passed another resolution further restricting county workers from sharing any sort of information regarding immigration status. A day later, on Feb. 27, the jail administration notified county leaders that it learned, while discussing the latest resolution with jail staff, that some had still been working with ICE in an informal way. Staff members let immigration officers walk beyond the public areas of the jail and use the county computers, where they had logins to access inmate information such as names, places of birth and addresses. On occasion, staff would call immigration officers to let them know when an inmate was being released. The county now bars ICE from going anywhere past the public areas. Nobody has been disciplined so far, said jail spokeswoman Candace Hopkins. Hopkins said jail workers tipped off ICE regarding about one person out of around 3,000 released each month. "Our records department was complying with those requests with rare occasion. Extremely rare is something that we want to emphasize," she said. ICE said that accessing the jail database made the public safer by ensuring that criminals facing deportation weren't released back onto the streets in the U.S. "When sanctuary-city policies inhibit ICE officers' ability to identify and take custody of criminal aliens in a controlled environment such as local jails, ICE is forced to dedicate its limited resources to track down fugitives and dangerous criminals upon release," said Corey Price, an official with the ICE field office in El Paso, Texas, which covers New Mexico. He said sanctuary policies are "misguided efforts" by "those who ultimately want to shield dangerous criminals from being deported." In Chicago, police are barred from cooperating with immigration authorities in a number of ways, but ICE still had access to its gang database, advocates say. In 2017, the city settled with a man who sued after he was mistakenly placed on a gang database that ICE accessed and used to arrest him. Immigration officers seriously injured the man while arresting him at his home. In Philadelphia, which since 2014 has prohibited its jails from holding detainees for ICE or notifying the agency of release dates, authorities even in high-level administrative posts were still informally working with the federal agency, according to advocates and an investigative report by The Philadelphia Inquirer . The newspaper documented about 10 occasions in which police notified ICE about immigrants they arrested. Blanca Pacheco, co-director of the New Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia, said that until last year, the city's probation officers, who shared an office building with ICE, were walking clients over directly to the federal agency to turn them in, in violation of the city's directive. Pacheco said the practice stopped when it came to light. She said it went on largely because some people weren't trained on the policies. Training "is really key because one thing is to win the policy, and another is to train people. There are people that, because of racism, do it, but also there are officers who just don't know," Pacheco said. In another case of behind-the-scenes cooperation, the ACLU reported that ICE uses a license-plate recognition database containing information submitted by some 80 police departments, some of them in sanctuary cities that are not supposed to be cooperating with ICE. Jorge L. Baron, executive director of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, an advocacy and legal services group in the Seattle area, said immigration agents have always found ways to get information on deportable criminals when it's not easily accessible. "We have to continue working on ways that we can prevent information-sharing," Baron said. The Trump administration on Friday announced additional sanctions for Venezuela in response to what it describes as the illegal arrest of opposition leader Juan Guaido's chief of staff. The Treasury Department announcement came while the President Donald Trump met with leaders from five Caribbean nations, where Venezuela was at the top of the agenda. The region has been far from united in joining the U.S. call for the ouster of President Nicolas Maduro. The department is specifically targeting Venezuela's national development bank, BANDES, and four additional subsidiaries that BANDES owns or controls. "The regime's continued use of kidnapping, torture, and murder of Venezuelan citizens will not be tolerated by the U.S. or the international coalition that is united behind President Guaido," said Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. "Roberto Marrero and other political prisoners must be released immediately." The U.S. had already sanctioned scores of top Venezuelan officials and has blocked U.S. banks from doing business with that country, imposing a financial strangle-hold on the cash-strapped nation. The sanctions announced Friday also came as members of Congress from both parties condemned Marrero's arrest. They described it as a kidnapping. "The international community is closely watching Maduro's actions and will respond accordingly to any that threaten the safety of the opposition and Interim President Juan Guaido," said Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas. Trump is hosting the leaders of Jamaica, Bahamas, Haiti, Dominican Republic and St. Lucia at his Mar-a-Lago club to show his support for Caribbean countries that back democratic transition in Venezuela. The five have either denounced Maduro or joined more than 50 countries in recognizing Juan Guaido as the rightful interim leader of the nation. Trump told the leaders as the meeting kicked off that he would be "discussing ways that we can be beneficial to you and you can be beneficial to us." The Trump administration considers Maduro's government a dictatorship and says he was re-elected in an illegitimate election. The U.S. has sanctioned scores of top Venezuelan officials and has blocked U.S. banks from doing business with Venezuela, putting a financial strangle-hold on the cash-strapped country. The country is in an economic meltdown and millions of Venezuelans have fled. "As President Trump clearly stated, the toughest sanctions are yet to come," national security adviser John Bolton said in a tweet Thursday. "Unless Maduro's usurpation ends, he and his cronies will be strangled financially. The window is closing." White House press secretary Sarah Sanders says Trump will use the meeting to thank the leaders for their support for peace and democracy in Venezuela and discuss potential opportunities for energy investment. Nations in the Caribbean, however, have been split on whether to interfere in Venezuela. For years, Venezuela has provided a reliable supply of oil to many Caribbean nations. They purchased the oil under the PetroCaribe arrangement, which gave them low-interest credit terms, but have left them indebted to Caracas. Sanders said Trump will also use the meeting to strengthen cooperation and counter "China's predatory economic practices." Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and other Trump administration officials have told countries that they should beware of Chinese investment opportunities. It's unclear how well Trump's message will be received. The U.S. has a long history of interventions military and otherwise in Latin America. And Trump has not always been kind to impoverished nations like some in the region. Last year, while meeting with senators on immigration, Trump questioned why the United States would accept more immigrants from Haiti and "s---hole countries" in Africa, according to one participant and people briefed on the conversation. The Greater Boston areas first recreational marijuana shop is now open. Dozens of people stood in a line that stretched around the back of the facility in the cold Saturday morning to be among the first customers to purchase recreational marijuana from New England Treatment Access (NETA). Twelve hours later, when they closed, NETA had served 2,515 customers. James Jenner screamed for joy after he came out of the building with his purchase. The 38-year-old uses pot to treat various medical ailments, including nerve pain. However, he prefers not to have to carry a medical marijuana card. With cannabis I could still live a normal life and treat the ailments that I have, Jenner said. And so a day like today is historic. Other medical customers of the shop are worried about what recreational sales will mean for them. "Not happy," said Jim Lavecchio, who shops at NETA for medical marijuana. "Because I feel like the lines are going to be pretty bad when the recreational users start." "I think it's going to be insane," said another medical marijuana client, Jeannine Stanley. "I'm concerned about the line. I hope they don't run out of anything I usually use." Some area business owners are concerned about travel impacts in an area that already has a lot of traffic and limited parking. The owner of La Morra, a restaurant across the street, is hoping to capitalize on the cannabis by starting lunch service. "With thousands of people expecting to come park, we know it's going to be crazy," owner Josh Ziskin said. "But we're going to let them settle in, wait in line, get hungry and then we'll open our doors up." Jay Holmes travelled all the way from Brooklyn, New York to take part in the first day of recreational marijuana sales at NETA with his boyfriend, who lives in Boston. Ive never been to a state where they legalized, said Jay Holmes. This place has been here for years, said Jermaine Harrison, Holmes boyfriend. I used to drive by it when I was a kid. In a sign of times, what was once an old bank has been turned into a pot shop located on the corner of Boylston and High Streets in Brookline. It is the first MBTA-accessible pot shop, and officials are hoping customers take the train to get there. The D line is the closest, but shuttle buses will be running Saturday due to scheduled maintenance. The E line is a short walk away. The first customer to buy recreational marijuana at NETA was Chariman of the Brookline Board of Selectman Neil Washinsky. He said some residents and business owners have some concerns about traffic, but he is confident NETA has everything under control. We are fully staffed and our focus is to keep the traffic moving, Wishinsky said. NETA founders said they more than doubled product and staff to accommodate the influx of people who showed up for the first day of recreational marijuana sales Saturday. NETA believes it has enough supply since it already has a shop in western Massachusetts. There will also be modest limits on what customers can purchase, and roughly a third of their product will be reserved for medical patients. More than a dozen Brookline Police officers were on site to deal with the crowds and the traffic. NETA agreed to open on a Saturday so the town has time to test the traffic plan before Monday morning's commute. Around 5 p.m., Brookline Police said there had been limited disruption on a successful first day, and that NETA's reserve ahead service worked to limit lines' impact on pedestrian traffic. "The weekend is one thing, but obviously, Monday, with schools and businesses back open, we will reassess the operation plan as the week progresses," Lt. Philip Harrington of the Brookline Police Department said. Parking will be extremely limited, with a few spots reserved for medical patients and more at the Homewood Suites down the street. NETA recommends customers use the "Reserve Ahead" feature online to make the line go faster. NETA will be open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday. NETA's location in Northampton was one of the first two stores to sell marijuana products to recreational customers in the eastern U.S. Its Brookline store will become the 13th recreational pot shop in Massachusetts. Lawmakers in Rhode Island and Connecticut are currently considering whether to legalize recreational marijuana. Editor's Note: Details of this story may be too disturbing for some readers. Police and prosecutors in Vermonts Washington County are calling an investigation into a Barre couple one of their most disturbing cases of alleged child abuse in recent memory. Its a really concerning fact pattern, Washington County States Attorney Rory Thibault said of the accusations against Robin Benedict, 38, and Roland Withers, 35. Police affidavits filed with the court Friday outline accusations that the couple subjected multiple children who were known to them to extensive cruelty and harm. Investigators said there were beatingseven threats of murder. Interviews with the children revealed the kids could go days without food or be locked in closets for punishment, according to the affidavits. One young child was allegedly made to drink alcohol, Thibault noted. The adults are also accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting two children and forcing them to touch each others private parts. Separate defense attorneys for both Benedict and Withers entered not guilty pleas on behalf of their clients to all counts against them. In one of the interviews described in the affidavits, Robin Benedict said she was afraid Withers might seriously hurt her if she reported the alleged crimes. However, prosecutors said she was a knowing participant in some of the alleged abuse. Thibault noted the investigation is ongoing. Judge Mary Morrissey ordered Benedict and Withers jailed without bail until at least their next court hearings. In those hearings, defense attorneys may argue for the suspects to be released on conditions, and prosecutors could present evidence asking that they remain in jail until trial. According to court paperwork, police learned about the situation after the childrens doctor called in an urgent report that they were filthy and pale, ravenously hungry, and in the pediatricians opinion, at risk of recurrent injury, deprivation, and death. Those alleged victims are now in DCF custody. In the suspects Barre neighborhood, the accusations were deeply upsetting to other parents. To hear even just one child is torture, said Barre resident Amanda Plante. So I really do hope those kids can find peace. The chief of police in Barre said the community and state take sexual violence and crimes against children very seriously, and he wants survivors to know help is available. There are a lot of resources in the community and there are a lot of contact points, said Chief Tim Bombardier. You can deal with your healthcare provider, you can go through victim advocate services, you can even contact the police department and ask to speak to me. More information on services available to victims of such crimes is available on the Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services website. If theyre convicted, Benedict and Withers face possible maximum sentences of life in prison. Authorities announced Saturday that a man wanted in Massachusetts for violent crimes has been arrested in Michigan. According to Provincetown police, Darren Patrick Devine, 27, was taken into custody by police in Michigan. He had been wanted since March 15. Devine is facing charges for assault and battery of a police officer, breaking and entering and destruction of property. Police warned the community that Devine was dangerous and mentally unstable with a long violent criminal history in Massachusetts with 91 priors. It is unclear if Devine has an attorney. Vermont State Police say it appears that a drug-impaired motorist nodded off before fatal head-on collision in the town of Addison, Vermont. Troopers say a vehicle operated by 28-year-old Ian Labounty, of Crown Point, New York, crossed the center line into the path of an oncoming car Friday morning. The crashed claimed the life of 57-year-old Cecile Druzba, of South Burlington, Vermont. Troopers say an initial investigation suggests Labounty fell asleep and that drugs were a contributing factor. Troopers say drug recognition experts concluded Labounty was impaired at the time; a blood toxicology report is pending. It's unclear if Labounty has a lawyer. He's charged with driving under the influence and gross negligent operation resulting in death. Within minutes of the news Friday that special counsel Robert Mueller had delivered his report into possible Russian election meddling to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, New England's predominantly Democratic legislative delegation was already imploring the justice department to release the full report as soon as possible. "Attorney General Barr release the Mueller report to the American public. Now," U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts said. Warren put a petition on her website "to make the Mueller report public immediately." "Now that Robert Mueller's report has been submitted, it must be made public to the American people and to Congress as soon as possible," said U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan of Massachusetts. "We deserve the whole truth. The integrity of our democratic system is at stake." Mueller's investigation into the campaign and presidency of Donald Trump began with his appointment in May of 2017. Since then, Trump has consistently proclaimed there was "no collusion" and decried the investigation as a "witch hunt." Barr is expected to review the report and write his own account of Mueller's findings to provide Congress and the general public. The attorney general has said he wanted to make as much of the report public as possible. "Attorney General Barr should make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress," said U.S. Sen. Edward Markey of Massachusetts. "A summary of the report or Mr. Barr simply briefing Congress on its contents would be insufficient. We cannot have the Attorney General or the White House interfere in decisions about the findings of the investigation and what evidence is made public." Markey added that "the American people have a right to the truth about what happened in the 2016 presidential election." "A report that examines the depths of interference in our democracy shouldn't be hidden from the public," said U.S. Rep. Joe Kennedy III of Massachusetts. Despite constant political pressure, the Special Counsel & his team have a grateful country standing behind them." "Make. The. Whole. Thing. Public," U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern of Massachusetts said. "Special Counsel Mueller has completed his thorough work. The American people have a right to know whats in his report. If the Attorney General refuses to make it public, Congress should demand its immediate release and subpoena it if he refuses," U.S. Rep. Peter Welch of Vermont said. "Give it all to Congress. Make it public. Err on the side of transparency," said U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut. "The future of American democracy depends on it." U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton of Massachusetts also stressed the importance of making sure the entire report is released. "Robert Mueller has done his job, now its time for Congress to do ours," he said. "That means investigating this report ourselves, and making sure that every American gets to read every word." U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine, also said Barr should share Mueller's findings with the public, but she stopped short of demanding the report to be released in its entirety. "I have always had confidence in Special Counsel Mueller and welcome the completion of his report," Collins tweeted. "Attorney General Barr should release the report to the public as soon as possible, while accommodating national security concerns." Collins' colleague, Independent U.S. Sen. Angus King of Maine, who caucuses with the Democrats, also said the report should be released without pushing for it to be completely free of omissions. "I believe that Attorney General Barr must release as much of the Mueller report as possible in order to restore America's full faith and confidence in our system of government," King wrote. "The Intelligence Community is clear that foreign powers sought to interfere in the 2016 election; protecting our democratic process and preventing future incursions in our electoral process need to be our top priority." The Valencian town of Carcaixent is the fifth town Newbury has been twinned with NEWBURY is strengthening ties with its European neighbours after being formally twinned with the Spanish town of Carcaixent. Mayor Margo Payne visited the Valencian town on a five-day trip earlier this month, where she addressed residents of Carcaixent and those from Newburys other twin towns in an official ceremony. The twinning or hermanamiento as Newburys Valencian neighbours call it sees the culmination of a friendship between Newbury and Carcaixent which started more than 20 years ago. Carcaixent is the fifth town Newbury has been twinned with, following its other unions with the German town of Braunfels, Feltre in Italy, Eeklo in Belgium and Bagnols-Sur-Ceze in France. The ceremony, on Saturday, March 9, followed a two-day conference in which Mrs Payne participated, where representatives from the six towns discussed the economic and cultural challenges they individually faced. In her speech, which she read out in Spanish, Mrs Payne deliberately avoided saying the word Brexit. She instead highlighted how the bond Newbury shared with Carcaixent would continue to strengthen, despite the uncertain time of association with its European neighbours. Speaking after her trip, Mrs Payne said: They were very sad about us leaving the EU, but Im really pleased that we have completed a circle now we are all twinned with one another. At the conference, Mrs Payne learnt how Carcaixent dealt with problems of immigration from Morocco and discussed the uncertainty around Brexit. She was adamant that whatever happens after March 29, Newburys healthy relationship with its neighbours on the continent would continue to prosper. Mrs Payne said: Most of our European friends really thought we were going to say Right, we do not want to be twinned anymore. But its the complete opposite. We want to be stronger and forge cultural links. Its hugely important during these times of uncertainty that we maintain strong ties. Newbury will host a return twinning ceremony on July 13 this year in the Corn Exchange, when representatives from Carcaixent will visit the town. It is hoped that Carcaixent residents including the towns illustrious youth band will bring their traditional dresses worn in its Falles festival a traditional month-long spring celebration held in the Valencian province every year. The festival includes fireworks, giant paper sculptures, bonfires, food and parties. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 23) The longtime aide of former Makati Mayor Junjun Binay has died. This was confirmed by Binay in a statement Saturday. "Kagabi pumanaw ang ating kaibigan, si Monette Bernardo [Last night, our friend Monette Bernardo died]. Monette succumbed last night to the gunshot wound she suffered when she was attacked by an unidentified assailant last Thursday," Binay said. Binay said his family is mourning the death of Bernardo, whom he described as a "kind, generous, and compassionate soul." "The sadness and pain we feel today is indescribable; but it is matched by our resolve to secure justice for Monette and her loved ones. Hindi ka namin malilimutan [We will not forget you], Monette. We will not rest until those behind this tragedy are held accountable for this unforgivable crime." The police said Bernardo was shot by one of two assailants on a motorcycle in Barangay Olympia on Thursday night. She sustained a gunshot wound in her right hand that went through her abdomen. Binay said he was not aware of Bernardo having any enemies, but raised the possibility the attack was related to the upcoming elections. Binay is running for Makati mayor opposite his sister, incumbent Mayor Abby Binay. Mayor Abby Binay said she has ordered the police to investigate the attack. She also ordered the village chiefs to submit security footage that will help authorities find the perpetrators. CMC / Contributed photo The Connecticut Master Chorale, under the direction of Tina Johns Heidrich, will present its 20th annual Spring Concert on Sunday, April 7, at the First Congregational Church in Danbury. The program will feature a new work, Requiem for Solace, by Kim Andre Arnesen and three works by Dan Forrest: Te Deum, In Paradisum and Psalm of Ascension. BRIDGEPORT It likely was not how former Police Captain Mark Straubel intended to exit Bridgeports Finest, but his decision to retire from the department last August while under investigation for an alleged racist rant at least fattened his wallet. Straubel not only broke into the list of top 100 highest paid Bridgeport employees, but actually came in seventh. He cashed out on $129,971 worth of unused holidays, vacation, sick and compensatory time accrued during his 20-plus years with the department. So while the ex-captain only earned a portion $66,433 of his annual $104,051 salary, his gross 2018 earnings, according to city data, totaled $212,254. Mayor Joe Ganims administration provided the list of its top 100 earners along with a breakdown of their gross pay, to Hearst Connecticut Media in response to a Freedom of Information Act request. As was the case in 2017, cops and educators made up the bulk of the list, with around 20 others, like Ganim, Public Facilities Director John Ricci, and some municipal lawyers, popping up. Straubel, who is white and was a close aide to Police Chief Armando Perez, retired amid an internal investigation into allegations he wrote racist messages over Facebook to a white woman. One of those messages stated that African-Americans are a cancer and that Straubel hoped for a race war. Police Capt. Roderick Porter, until recently Bridgeports highest ranking black officer and a recent finalist for chief, has a complaint pending with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities challenging the citys handling of the Straubel case. Porter was not among the 100 highest paid. However Lonnie Blackwell, promoted this year from sergeant to captain after suing the city in federal court for discrimination, came in 14th with $174,925 in gross earnings over $96,000 more than his sergeants base salary of $78,675. More Information To view the full list of the top 100 highest paid Bridgeport employees online, visit: https://assets.documentcloud.org/documents/5777529/Copy-of-CITY-of-BRIDGEPORT-2018-TOP-100-EARNERS.pdf See More Collapse Much of Blackwells extra income was in overtime. He earned $70,927 in straight work overtime, and $13,636 for outside off-duty assignments at construction sites and other security positions. Many of those jobs are supposed to be reimbursed to the city by the private companies involved, such as utilities. Retirement payouts and police overtime helped determine who made the 2018 list and where those employees appeared on it. Beside Straubel, three other retired police officers were among the 10 highest paid workers: Sgt. John Losak was number one with $283,308, Police Capt. Robert Evans was in second place with $264,604 and Police Sgt. John Evans was fourth on the list, earning $240,043 in 2018. Police Sgt. Gregg Granello was sixth on the list. While his base pay is $78,675, Granello earned the largest amount of straight overtime $112,288 and $13,762 working off-duty. Hes just a working machine, Perez said Friday of Granello. The chief said that beside performing his regular patrol duties, Granello in 2018 had a key roll in implementing the departments uniform cameras and technological upgrades to police cruisers. Bridgeports finance and budget staff, who track and estimate overtime, recently told the City Council that Perez might wind up $1.9 million over his $5.3 million overtime budget when the fiscal year ends June 30. But some of that is expected to be offset by reduced personnel costs because of vacancies. I think Ive got a better handle on the overtime, said Perez, who Ganim promoted late last year to permanent chief after nearly three years as acting top cop. From top lawyers to mayoral chauffeurs Perez was 36th on the top paid list, earning $154,164. For the bulk of 2018, he was acting police chief with a base salary of $145,428. Like many long-time Bridgeport employees, Perez took advantage of a city policy allowing staffers who have earned four weeks of vacation a year to choose a payout for two of those the following year. In Perezs case, that was $5,192. Perez also received the annual longevity bonus provided long-time employees. His was $2,625 after more than 38 years on the force. The chiefs standing on the list of high earners is likely to improve in 2019. Perez, because he left the union after being made permanent top cop, was allowed to cash in unused time accrued during his career. So in January he was paid $171,830 $122,017 after taxes for unused vacation, personal and sick days, holidays and for compensatory time. Among the non-cops in the top 10 municipal earners was Attorney Mark Anastasi, a veteran of the law department. He still advises city officials on legal matters, but as a consultant. Upon retiring in mid-2018, Anastasi cashed in $119,109 worth of unused sick days and $13,098 worth of vacation time, helping him become the eighth highest paid official, with gross earnings of $210,346. In contrast, City Attorney R. Christopher Meyer, Anastasis supervisor, was much further down the list, taking home $147,821. Schools Superintendent Aresta Johnson dropped from second on the list in 2017 to third last year, receiving $252,365. Marlene Siegel, the school districts chief financial officer, inched up from sixth place to fifth, earning $215,016. Ganim had been in 29th place in 2017. In 2018, he dropped slightly to 35th, but still earned more $154,502 versus $152,876 in 2017. The mayor recently negotiated a new contract with the citys supervisors union that also benefits non-union elected and appointed officials. So he will be receiving a retroactive 2 percent raise as of last July, and another 2 percent raise this summer. The mayor has a couple of police officers who drive him around and serve as security. Only one of those, Lt. Richard Azzarito, appeared on the list, helped by the $44,859 he was paid in straight overtime. Perez, however, said the overtime was not related to Azzaritos mayoral duties. The lieutenant took home $146,916 total. Another noteworthy name on the list is Riccis. His job running the massive public facilities department earned the veteran of the city payroll and of Bridgeport politics he helped elect Ganim in 2015 $146,829. And, like Ganim, Ricci, a non-union political appointee, will share in the supervisors unions raises. Those pay increases should help offset the four weeks worth of salary that Ricci recently lost as punishment for his role in a recent scandal involving the illicit sale of scrap metal by members of Riccis staff. BRIDGEPORT The Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport, which earlier this week agreed to pay $3.55 million to five people who claimed they had been sexually abused by priests when they were children, on Friday updated its list of priests who have been credibly accused of sexual abuse. The updated list adds 10 names, eight of whom are deceased diocesan priests; one visiting priest from a Venezuelan diocese who spent the summer of 1991 in the Diocese of Bridgeport, and one living diocesan priest who has not served in the diocese since 1984. The update brings the total to 38 credibly accused priests. The diocese also listed nine other priests who it has paid out settlements for abuse claims without determining whether the priests were credibly accused. I am committed to remaining transparent and instituting whatever change is needed to better respond to those affected by abuse, said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano in a letter to parishioners released Friday. I recognize that any restoration of trust will require a continued diligent effort on my part, as well as on the part of all of us who love the church. Added to the diocesan list of credibly accused are: the Rev. James A Gay, a retired priest who served in the diocese from 1959 to 1984; the Rev. John Draper, ordained in 1953, died 1966; the Rev. William Fletcher, ordained 1944, died 1988; the Rev. Martin Hitchcock, ordained 1951, retired 1991, died 2014; the Rev. James McCormick, ordained 1916, died 1965; the Rev. Bartholomew Laurello, ordained in 1946, died 2004; the Rev William R. Nagle, ordained 1927, died 1979; the Rev. Boleslaus Bill Rarus, ordained 1940, died 2005; the Rev. Paul Spodnick, ordained 1927, died 1976; the Rev. Jose Daniel Alberran a priest from the Diocese of Barcelona in Venezuela spent one summer at St Peter Parish in Bridgeport in 1991. The diocese notes that the accused priest William R. Nagle, who served at St. Clement in Stamford and St. Vincent Hospital in Bridgeport, among other places, is not the same man as Monsignor William Aloysius Nagle, a priest at The Basilica of St. John the Evangelist in Stamford from 1973 to 1998. The bishop stated that the list will continue to be updated as ongoing investigations continue into past allegations relating to deceased priests or as other matters come forward. In a report last October, the bishop said the diocese has paid $52.5 million to settle 156 allegations of sexual abuse by priests since 1953. He also appointed a retired judge, Robert Holzberg, to look into claims that the diocese covered up priests sexual abuse of children for decades. Gov. Ned Lamonts latest school bill would encourage districts to share resources, but Danbury-area superintendents said they already do. Local districts partner on buying technology and transporting students with special needs initiatives that would fall under Lamonts proposal and a proposal state Sen. Norm Needleman, D-Essex, introduced last week. Lamont last week pulled back some of his demands for schools to create regional districts. His latest plan would create a committee to come up with recommendations on how to share resources and doesnt force regionalization. Its smart to not force the issue, but look at it from the perspective of savings and joint services to keep costs down, Danbury Superintendent Sal Pascarella said. So, people can have their districts, but have them run efficiently and effectively. Superintendents said they are already doing much of what the bills encourage. Administrators from several local districts have been meeting monthly for more than a year to discuss how they can better share services. Frankly, my colleagues and I, we dont need the state of Connecticut to tell us to save money, Brookfield Superintendent John Barile said. Thats something weve already been working on. Thats a constant mission of ours, to try to be more efficient. Many area residents feared they would lose local control over their schools if the original plan was approved. But concern remains over the proposal to cut state funding for districts with fewer than 2,000 students, only two schools or less, or towns with fewer than 10,000 residents that dont share a superintendent or make their school board chairman a superintendent. Smaller districts that act like a regional school district, such as Easton, Redding and Region 9, worry they could be forced to take it a step further and become one district, which could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in realigning salaries under union contracts. Rob Blanchard, spokesman for the governors office, said the committee would create advisory recommendations and districts would be encouraged to partner with other towns by receiving more school construction money. Megan Bennett, Region 12 superintendent, said she does not know how the proposal specifically affects her district, which includes three towns but does not hit the 2,000 student threshold. But she said she likes the governors new idea for the committee. Already partnering Districts have saved thousands of dollars by purchasing Chromebooks together and sharing transportation for special education students placed out of the district. A newly created interactive map, showing where students live and where they travel to for school, has assisted with the latter. The reason we created it was to not only see if we can share rides with other districts, but to look at what other transportation companies are charging as a mechanism for negotiations, Bethel Superintendent Christine Carver said. The high cost to bus these students out of district has been a major factor in the increase in special education spending, which has driven up school budgets across the Danbury area. Administrators are looking into sharing special education services, including possibly creating a regional school . EdAdvance and Cooperative Educational Services, two organizations that assist local school districts, plan to study whether this would save costs in the long run. Thats a long-term goal though because that involves a lot of work, Carver said. She said area superintendents plan to ask whether local districts could better make use of the states system for comparing student data. This would allow districts to avoid paying for their own systems. Thats the crux of these bills, Carver said. There are things we all do that we can come together on. Already regional Its unclear what the governors proposal would mean for the smaller districts already doing what he recommends. Redding, Easton and Region 9 all have less than 2,000 students on their own, but the three districts already share a central office, bus contract and some employees. Thomas McMorran, the superintendent for all three, said consolidating them into one would not generate the savings the governor and other politicians predict. Instead, he said the forced regionalization would cost the town hundreds of thousands of dollars to bring all of the union contracts to the same level. He added teachers would probably be cut to cover the difference and result in large class sizes. I dont see this as saving any money at all, simply because of the contract resolution, he said. While all of the employees have good salaries, McMorran said the contracts in Region 9 are higher than those in Easton and the bargaining units wont accept decreases, meaning all of the contracts would have to be brought up to the highest level in the group. He said if the overall goal is to create greater efficiencies and better services for students, then the challenge lawmakers face is how to do that without costing the towns a lot of money. McMorran said combining the three districts would find efficiencies at central office because right now the staff of 13 is doing everything in triplicate three bus schedules, three budgets and three calendars. It also means McMorran attends meetings for three school boards. If you could unify all of that without the most expensive contract becoming the norm for the whole district, you could find savings, he said. I still think it will be too expensive. Christian Abraham / Christian Abraham BRIDGEPORT A man shot just before midnight Thursday is expected to survive, according to city police. City spokeswoman Rowena White said officers responded to a report of shots fired in the area of Main Street and Wheeler Avenue at 11:53 p.m. Thursday and were directed to a man who had been shot multiple times. From tea to tanks, the roles of women in the military have seen a steady change over the past 50 years. Proper grooming techniques and etiquette training are not things many people would associate with the basic training for todays modern soldier, But for Gini Geffert of Mentor that was part of her basic training regimen. Geffert, who served in the U.S. Army from 1976 to 1980, equates the beauty school training she went through in basic training to just about the same thing that was portrayed in the movie A League of Their Own where they were taught to sit, sip their tea and apply their make up properly. We actually had to do all that. It was kind of hilarious actually, she said. Geffert, who is originally from Western New York, had two brothers in the Air Force and decided to enlist because it looked to her like they were having a pretty good time. She also wanted money for college. She was just out of high school when she left for basic training at Fort Jackson in South Carolina. During her time of service, male and female soldiers were still segregated in both housing and physical training but that would change. It was during her basic training in 1976 when the Army started combining of men and women during physical training. During Gefferts basic training, women soldiers had a different set of physical training standards than the men. She said that she always wondered if she would have made it through basic if the requirements had been the same. Women were only required to run half a mile while the men had a much further distance to go and a time limit with which they had to run it. We had less push-ups and less sit-ups, Geffert said. Geffert did her eight weeks of training and then went to administration school. At that point in time there were still a lot of fields that werent open to women. Now there are so many jobs that they can do that women didnt do back then, Geffert said. I think it was when I was in that they were just starting to have women in the Military Police. That was relatively new at that time. Its a whole different ball game for women now than what it was for me. Also at that time, women were not permitted on the front lines unless they were nurses. Now the women are assigned to units that are up on the front lines, you would have never seen that back in my day, Geffert said. You would have never seen a female truck driver out traveling around in hostile territory.They might have been truck drivers, but they would have been assigned back in the rear and only in support positions. For Jami Abel who served as a member of the U.S. Navy at Tinker Air Force Base from 1995 to 1999, things were a little different. Abel, a former aircraft mechanic, didnt have to attend beauty and etiquette training. Make up was something the women put on only after completing boot camp and if they found the time to apply it. Instead of learning how to style their hair, female soldiers were now required to have their hair cut in boot camp so it was off the shoulders. Although more job choices opened up by this time, women soldiers were still limited on their options. Abel recalled when she was in career training and going in to take a test. She remembered being told that many job positions were open all over the world, and the one who scored the highest on the test would get their choice of which one they wanted. The excitement Abel felt when she was able able to choose turned into disappointment when she was told her choice of locale, Italy, was an option not available for women. Instead, she was sent to Oklahoma where she performed the same work that she would have done in Italy. Also during this time frame, men and women still lived in separate housing. For physical training, the women would start in their barracks but then integrate with the men. At this point, women had to meet the same physical training standards as the men. For Kayla Novello, a 22-year-old soldier from Chardon currently stationed at Fort Hood in Texas, the Army is slightly different. Novello, who enlisted in 2014, does hydraulic repairs on aircraft such as Chinooks, Black Hawks and Apache helicopters. While aviation and mechanics is still a male-dominated field, according to Novello there are more females getting into it. In her company of 100 soldiers, there are approximately five to six women. While they no longer have to cut their hair, they do have to keep it neatly pinned up off the shoulders. Also, men and women are integrated in just about everything. Females are expected to be on the same level as males during the basic combat training and advanced individual training and meet all the same physical training standards. Housing standards are a little less lax. While male and females do not share rooms or living units in the barracks, they are integrated into the same barracks at some locations. Women also are now reaching the ranks of commanding officers. Novello notes that she has a drill sergeant who preside over approximately 100 men who is not only female but pregnant. Women are now allowed to be artillery members and serve on the front lines. The process to allow females in combat only began in 2013. Females can now be Special Forces and they can no be infantry, Novello said. There is no more females cant do this or females cant do that. Its basically the same all the way across the board. Novello feels that is fair and that if a woman can do the same amount of work as a man then they should be allowed to. The way I look at is if a 120-pound small male can be infantry and on the front line, then so can a 180-pound built female who can still do the same amount of work or more, Novello said. Representative image. Union Minister and Rajya Sabha MP Ravi Shankar Prasad asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to explain how his wealth rose from Rs 55 lakh to Rs 9 crore in five years. Prasad said that Gandhi does not have any known source of income other than the salary of a Member of Parliament. Attacking Bengal CM months after participating in her 'Opposition Rally', Congress president Rahul Gandhi slammed Mamata Banerjee for "only giving long speeches" and "doing nothing for the state". The remark came despite Mallikarjun Kharge's attendance at the Kolkata rally in January, where the Congress leader read out letters by Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi "supporting" Banerjee for her "show of unity and hope". Meanwhile, the BJP has announced third list of 11 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, starting April 11. Tainted mining baron Janardhan Reddy has been fielded from Chelvella seat in Telangana. Congress chief Rahul Gandhi today attacked Narendra Modis Main bhi chowkidar campaign, saying the Prime Minister only guarded the rich and not the poor. Speaking at a rally in Bihars Purnea, Gandhi said he was neither scared of Modi, nor the BJP and RSS and only believed in the truth. Later in the day, Gandhi will kick-off his first rally in Bengal at Kolam Bagan Ground in Malda. Earlier, BJP chief Amit Shah hit out at the Congress over Sam Pitrodas remarks regarding the Pulwama attacks, saying the grand old party should answer if it believes that Pakistan has no role in the terror attacks being planned in India. I demand answers from Rahul Gandhi. Do you think it (surgical strikes) was a routine thing? Losing soldiers was routine? Is the Congress of the belief that any attack on India and its forces not without the blessings of the Pakistan army, he asked. Meanwhile, the NDA released its second list of candidates for all the 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar today at the state BJP office. The BJP has dropped rebel party leader Shatrughan Sinha and replaced him with Ravi Shankar Prasad in Patna Sahib. Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Giriraj Singh and Radha Mohan Singh were among the other names included in the list. The Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party along with their allies will hold a press conference for the Mahagathbandhan in Maharashtra at 4 pm. The presser will be attended by party veterans Ashok Chavan, Sharad Pawar, Raju Shetti among others, where in all probability, they will announce their candidates and the alliance formula for the state with 48 Lok sabha seats. Marvel Studios just debuted first looks at MCU streaming shows for She-Hulk and Ms. Marvel, spotlighting two new leading ladies in the MCU's pantheon of female superheroes. And with Black Widow, Captain Marvel, and Wanda Maximoff all getting starring roles in the last few years, it's safe to say superheroines are on the rise at Marvel. At the same time, in comic books, DC is elevating Mary Marvel (no relation to their publishing rival) to the status of Shazam!, making her the lead in a new title as she takes over from her brother Billy Batson. After decades of the flawed perception that female superheroes are less viable as lead characters than their male counterparts, publishers and studios alike are putting more focus on women in superhero roles, leading to a wider array of characters and titles on the shelves than ever. But who are the most iconic, defining superheroines in comics? Newsarama has our pick for the 25 best female superheroes of all time right here. 25. Witchblade (Image credit: Top Cow) The mid-'90s launched a female superhero craze that, in many cases, was focused far more on cheesecake art and boundary-pushing costume design than on craft and storytelling. Dubbed the 'Bad Girl' era, the trend was marked by dozens of seeming throwaway characters that made a mark with a scandalous cover or two and then faded into obscurity. But there were a few examples that stood above the fray notably Top Cow's Witchblade. Created by Image co-founder Marc Silvestri along with David Wohl, Brian Haberlin, and Michael Turner and debuting in 1995's Cyblade/Shi: The Battle for Independents, the original Witchblade was Sara Pezzini, a cop who discovered a powerful artifact (the titular Witchblade) that bonded with her body and gave her potent mystical abilities. Witchblade quickly exploded in popularity, becoming the flagship character of Image Comics' Top Cow imprint. Over the years, the 'Bad Girl' craze faded into near obscurity, but Witchblade remains a touchstone of independent comic book superheroes, with a mythology all her own, including multiple Witchblade wielders, other similar artifacts like the Darkness that became popular concepts in their own right, and even a short-lived TV show. 24. Jane Foster (Image credit: Marvel Comics) What does it mean to be 'worthy'? That's a question that was cast into stark relief when Thor Odinson became 'unworthy' of wielding the hammer's power or even lifting it in the 2014 crossover Original Sin . In Odinson's absence, Jane Foster, longtime paramour of the mighty Thor, took up Thor's hammer Mjolnir, gaining his power, his role as Marvel's god of thunder, and even his very name. This would become the catalyst that would propel Jane Foster to the ranks of the best superheroes ever. Jane Foster first debuted alongside Thor himself in Journey Into Mystery #84 , and for many years was simply a love interest/supporting character. But in Thor (Vol. 4) #1 , she ascended all of that by lifting Mjolnir and becoming the true, official Thor. As Thor, Jane Foster caused controversy both on and off the page, with some fans bristling that she was sharing even Thor's name, and the gods of Asgard being wary of a stranger essentially entering their ranks. But writer Jason Aaron and artist Russell Dauterman took the opportunity to defy expectations with Foster's story, rising her through Marvel's ranks to the Avengers, having her save all of Asgard from destruction, and, ultimately, giving her a hero's ending that led to Jane's current role as the leader of the newly revived Valkyries of Asgard. Jane Foster's story as Thor will be adapted to the upcoming MCU movie sequel Thor: Love and Thunder. 23. Faith (Image credit: Valiant Comics) Debuting in 1992's Harbinger #1 , Valiant's Faith Herbert (sometimes known by her codename Zephyr) is a 'psiot,' a human with latent superpowers. Before her powers developed, Faith lost her powers in an accident. Faith was subsequently raised by her grandmother and grew up as many real-world youngsters do retreating into a world of comic books, fantasy stories, and science fiction to cope with her grief. When her powers were unlocked as part of the Harbinger Renegades (a team of psiots who fight against the villainous Harbinger Foundation, which seeks to recruit and exploit psiots for world domination), Faith leaned into her superhero fandom, taking on a codename, costume, and even a secret identity things many of her allies chose not to do. Faith or Zephyr if she's superheroing, or Summer Smith if she's working her day job as a journalist has the power of 'aerokinesis,' the ability to manipulate air. These powers have grown simply from flying to creating force fields, moving things with wind, and carrying others with her in flight. Over the years, Faith has grown from a member of the Harbinger Renegades to one of Valiant's most popular solo heroes, with her 2016 Faith solo series reaching particular acclaim. Thanks to Faith's joyful demeanor, relatable fan-fulfillment story, and yes, her appearance as one of the few fat women who is depicted unequivocally as a hero and under a positive light in superhero media, she remains an enduring fan favorite and one of Valiant's top characters. 22. Jessica Jones (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Debuting as a super-powered private eye in 2001's Alias #1 , Jessica Jones isn't your typical superhero like her husband, Luke Cage, she doesn't even have a superhero codename that's stuck. But that's part of what makes her so great, and so unique among not just female superheroes, but superheroes in general. Gifted (or cursed, when you consider how she got her powers) with super-strength, flight, and invulnerability, Jessica got her powers as a teen when a chemical truck collided with her family's car, killing her parents and putting her in a coma. Though the development of her powers led to personal struggles through her early life (including a notoriously horrific kidnapping by the mind-controlling Purple Man), Jessica eventually became an Avenger, and one of the defining heroes of a certain era of the Marvel Universe. She's also a superhero mom, and even though that's caused its share of troubles for her, Jessica has fought through it all as a committed family woman as well as a hero. She also got several seasons of her own show on Netflix, portrayed by Kristen Ritter as part of the streaming service's Defenders family of Marvel shows. Oddly enough, Jessica Jones almost didnt make it into the Marvel Universe at all - her original title Alias was planned to star Jessica Drew (who was then retired from being Spider-Woman) till writer Brian Michael Bendis switched gears and created Jessica Jones as the titles star. 21. Wasp (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Janet Van Dyne was not only the first female Avenger, and a founder of the team in Avengers #1, but also the hero who named the team when they first formed. Though she started as something of a sidekick to her on-again-off-again (currently off-again) paramour Hank Pym, Janet quickly became a hero in her own right, leading the Avengers several times, and often acting as the team's moral center. Wasp's arc has consistently projected upwards, quickly leaving behind any semblance of being a 'damsel in distress,' and progressing to the top levels of Marvel's heroic roster. Add to that her historical significance, and it's easy to see why she's one of the greatest female heroes ever to grace the printed page. And while viewers got a short glimpse of Janet Van Dyne in action in Ant-Man, she took on a much larger role in the sequel Ant-Man and the Wasp - in which her MCU daughter Hope Van Dyne took on the mantle of the winsome Wasp. 20. Rocket (Image credit: Milestone Media) Raquel Ervin, better known by her superhero codename Rocket, may not be the marquee character of Milestone Comics' 1993-launching title Icon, but part of her incredible charm (and the charm of the comic itself) is that it's actually her story, even more than Icon, the hero whose name is on the cover. A young woman from one of the Milestone fictional city Dakota's worst neighborhoods making a habit of skirting the wrong side of the law, Raquel discovers that the lawyer she and her friends are about to rob is a lot more than he seems. In fact, he's a super-powered alien hiding on Earth. However, rather than earn his wrath, Raquel convinces the lawyer, Augustus Freeman IV, to use his powers to become a superhero. Taking the name Icon, Freeman gives Raquel a belt that can manipulate kinetic energy, leading to her taking the name Rocket as his sidekick. What makes Rocket's story so compelling and so interesting is that, like other sidekicks such as Robin, or other young heroes like Spider-Man, she faced numerous real-world challenges that reflected those faced by her readers. But unlike her contemporaries, Rocket's stories leaned into frank depictions of some of the hardships and struggles which uniquely affected (and in many cases still affect) Black communities and communities of color, including drug addiction and the crack epidemic, and even Rocket's own pregnancy and motherhood. All of this makes Rocket one of Milestone's most interesting and important heroes, a lens not just for classic super-heroics but also the trials and tribulations of real life for many people whose voices were not heard at all in the comics of the day. DC may know what they have in their hands as Rocket recently returned to comic books as the co-star of Icon & Rocket. 19. Vixen (Image credit: DC) Vixen may not be DC's first Black female hero (that honor goes to Bumblebee of the Teen Titans), but she is the first Black woman to join the Justice League. Following a canceled debut as a solo character in the late '70s, Vixen finally made her first appearance in 1981's Action Comics #521 , quickly joining the Justice League in 1983's Justice League of America Annual #2 as part of the so-called 'Detroit League' that shook-up the team's previous long-running status quo. Though many other members of the Detroit League faded into some level of obscurity (or were later heavily reworked), Mari McCabe/Vixen has remained a part of the DC Universe since her debut. As a descendent of the DC Universe version of the Spider god Anansi of Akan folklore, Vixen has the power to take on primal aspects of any animal including those that are now extinct. She's been a member of the Justice League numerous times and has even been part of the Suicide Squad. She also headlined a limited series titled Vixen: Return of the Lion , written by Kamala Khan co-creator G. Willow Wilson. Vixen was also the star of her own CW Seed animated series Vixen , with the character later transitioning to CW's live-action DC TV Universe as part of DC's Legends of Tomorrow . 18. Jean Grey (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Jean Grey was the first X-Woman, debuting in 1963's Uncanny X-Men #1, and even bore the name of her publishing company as Marvel Girl before transitioning to her Phoenix identity in the '70s. But she's more than just the first female mutant superhero she's also emblematic of the entire X-Men franchise, and one of the most complex, well-developed characters in comic books. She may have started in the typical Marvel superheroine model, but later adventures saw Jean develop a level of depth that many ensemble cast members never achieve. Between her ever-developing relationship with Scott Summers, her vast and terrifying power levels, her descent into madness in Uncanny X-Men: The Dark Phoenix Saga, and her penchant for self-sacrifice and redemption, Jean experienced more in her tenure as a hero than almost anyone. Of course, the Phoenix always rises from the ashes, and the resurrected Jean is a key character in the current 'Reign of X' X-Men era and (as Marvel Girl) a member of the current flagship X-Men team. If that doesn't qualify her as one of the best female superheroes, and certainly one of the best superheroes in general, then what does? 17. Kitty Pryde (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Kitty Pryde was hardly the first young woman to join the X-Men who have had a string of youthful ingenues in its ranks since the team's earliest days, but she was the first 'kid sister' type character to join the team, taking a role as Wolverine's kinda-sidekick/protege, and serving as something of a student/mascot for the rest of the X-Men. Kitty had a somewhat fraught relationship with the X-Men through her teen years. Joining up at 14 (shortly after her debut in Uncanny X-Men #129 ), she was much younger than even the next youngest member at the time, leading her to eventually move into the New Mutants teen team. But Kitty grew up quickly, becoming not just one of the X-Men's (and then Excalibur's) most powerful members with her ability to phase through solid matter, but also a formidable hand-to-hand combatant thanks to Wolverine's training, and even a SHIELD agent, all before actually retiring from the X-Men following the death of her on-again-off-again boyfriend Colossus. After Colossus was revived in the title Astonishing X-Men , Kitty rejoined the team, continuing her trajectory as one of the Xavier School's most prestigious graduates, leading her own X-Men teams, and even becoming the school's headmistress for a while. Now, in the Krakoa era, Kitty Pryde (who has the unique role of being one of the few superheroes to definitively age and grow up on the page) has started going by Kate Captain Kate, to be exact as the leader of the Marauders, essentially Krakoa's navy in the modern mutant era. 16. Monica Rambeau (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Monica Rambeau is just becoming a modern household name thanks to Teyonah Parris's winning portrayal of the hero in Disney Plus's MCU streaming show WandaVision, but longtime fans of the Marvel Universe have known her name (and her various codenames) for decades. Originally introduced in 1982's Amazing Spider-Man Annual #16 , Monica got her energy channeling powers when she was bombarded by an experimental weapon while serving as a Harbor Patrol agent in her native New Orleans, Louisiana. Monica, whose powers developed into converting her body into pure energy as well as harnessing and channeling all kinds of waves and particles including Cosmic Rays, Gamma Rays, X-rays, ultraviolet radiation, visible light, electricity, infrared radiation, microwaves, radio waves, and neutrinos, among many more, was dubbed 'Captain Marvel' by the media making her not only Marvel's first female Captain Marvel, but only the publisher's second character to carry that name, following her direct predecessor Mar-Vell. Monica quickly became an Avenger, and eventually rose through the ranks to become the team leader. Over the years since her stint on the Avengers, she's also been part of Nextwave: Agents of HATE (a sorta black-ops superhero team), The Ultimates (in this incarnation a team of incredibly powerful heroes who solve cosmic problems), and even come back to the Avengers a time or two. She's also switched her codename a few times, going from Photon to Pulsar, and most recently Spectrum. In the meantime, multiple other heroes have used the name Captain Marvel since, most notably Carol Danvers, who previously used the superhero name Ms. Marvel in comic books, before taking up the name Captain Marvel in honor of her mentor Mar-Vell. But whatever codename she's going by, Monica Rambeau remains one of Marvel's most powerful and often unsung heroes. 15. Kamala Khan (Image credit: Marvel Comics) One of the newer (and younger) superheroes on our list, Kamala Khan made her debut in 2013's Captain Marvel #14 . When the Terrigen Mists a strange substance that gives the hidden superhuman race the Inhumans their powers swept across the earth, activating strange abilities in many humans who had hidden Inhuman ancestry, Kamala was caught up in the wave, becoming the premiere teen hero of Jersey City, New Jersey. Kamala's superpowers include shape-changing and super strength and toughness relative to her physical form, which usually involves 'embiggening' her fists, or growing to gigantic size. But as a teen girl, Kamala's greatest power is relatability. Before getting superpowers and joining the Avengers (and later co-founding the teen team the Champions), Kamala wrote fan-fiction about being a hero and teaming up with her idol Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel hence Kamala taking the moniker Ms. Marvel, Carol's old codename. Truly, what's more intrinsic to the comic book fan's fantasy than daydreaming of being one of Earth's Mightiest Heroes? Like Spider-Man, the first Marvel Comics character to fully embody the spirit of a teen hero struggling with all the troubles of adolescence alongside the challenges of being a superhero, Kamala provides a window into the world of the Marvel Universe for teens and young adults coming of age in the modern era just like Peter Parker did in his early career. Kamala will also come to Disney Plus in her own live-action MCU Ms. Marvel streaming show. Interested to learn more? Check out the best Ms. Marvel (Kamala Khan) comics available. 14. Black Canary (Image credit: DC) Black Canary is a codename belonging to two classic DC superheroes, who share the unique bond of being mother and daughter. The original Black Canary, Dinah Drake, debuted in 1947's Flash Comics #86 in a backup story replacing the previous backup character Johnny Thunder. A skilled crimefighter, Black Canary was something of a female vigilante similar to Batman when such characters were uncommon, if not mostly unheard of in mainstream superhero comic books. Her popularity and striking appearance, designed by artist Carmine Infantino, led Black Canary to quickly join DC's Justice Society of America, the publisher's then premiere super-team. In the Silver Age era of the '60s, DC split its original Golden Age characters off into their own reality, Earth-2 (DC's current Omniverse status quo is a decades-in-the-making extrapolation of this simple idea). But that left a slight continuity problem regarding Black Canary. By that time, Black Canary had been appearing alongside the Justice League, then in their early years. DC came up with a few different (kinda complex) solutions over the years to explain how Black Canary was one of the few characters who seemed to exist on both Earth-1 and Earth-2, but the TL:DR is, the problem was eventually resolved by making the Justice League's Black Canary the daughter of the original. And thus was created Dinah Laurel Lance, one of DC's most enduring and popular superheroes. Dinah Lance's most common origin is that she was a rebellious young woman who decided to go against her superhero mom's wishes and follow in her footsteps, first training with Wildcat of the JSA, one of the best fighters in the DCU. Bolstered by the power of her sonic 'canary cry' superpower (which her mom didn't have), Dinah Lance grew into Black Canary, a powerful hero in her own right, and one of if not the best hand-to-hand combatant in the entire DC Universe. Over the years, Dinah Lance (as opposed to her mom Dinah Drake) has been one of the most enduring members of the Justice League, even leading the team from time to time. And of course, she's had an on-again-off-again (currently on again) romantic and crimefighting partnership with Oliver Queen, the Green Arrow. But more than anything, she's an enduring example of how DC has often employed the power of its own legacy to expand on and redefine its characters oftentimes making something even more iconic in the process. Black Canary was played by Jurnee Smollett in Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn). 13. Sailor Moon (Image credit: Kodansha) Usagi Tsukino AKA Sailor Moon may not be what many western comic book fans think of when the idea of a female superhero pops into their heads, but across the world, she's one of the best and most popular examples of the genre. Sailor Moon's manga was originally published in Kodansha's Nakayoshi from 1991-97, with the story coming to America as Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon. Embodying (and occasionally parodying) the 'magical girl' trope of manga and anime, in which a young woman gains magical powers through a transformation or by traveling to another world, Sailor Moon is the leader of the Sailor Scouts, a group of high school girls who gain cosmic powers when they activate the artifacts that give them their abilities. Sailor Moon may often lean more into the manga and anime tropes of its roots, but for American audiences who learned of the character when the early volumes of her popular anime came to Toonami and other popular anime cartoon blocks, she remains one of the best examples of what female superheroes look like when they are separated from the Superman and Batman archetypes that inform so many popular characters. Interested in more? Read about the transformative legacy of magical girl manga. 12. Scarlet Witch (Image credit: Marvel Comics) As the hit Disney Plus MCU streaming show WandaVision has demonstrated, Wanda Maximoff/the Scarlet Witch is both a force to be reckoned with and a complicated woman who has survived and inflicted more than her fair share of devastating trauma. One of the most powerful magic users in the Marvel Universe thanks to her status as a 'Nexus Being' with direct connections to Marvel's Multiverse, Wanda has often had that power used against her by cruel manipulators who have preyed on her long search for family. Be it Mephisto, Doctor Doom, Chthon, Dormammu, Morgan le Fay, or as in WandaVision, her comic book mentor Agatha Harkness, Wanda is too often the target of those who wish to seize the font of power she channels to their own nefarious ends. However, Wanda's true nature is that of a hero, something demonstrated in her earliest adventures. After debuting in X-Men #4 as part of Magneto's Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, she quickly turned over a new leaf and joined Earth's Mightiest Heroes in Avengers #16 , which revamped the team's original roster. Despite enduring the death and resurrection of her husband the Vision, the 'life' and 'death' of their magically created children William and Thomas, being magically manipulated by Doctor Doom into killing multiple Avengers and ending the team for some time, and even decimating the mutant population of the Marvel Universe by magically robbing their powers, Wanda has always turned back toward the light when allowed to follow her own path. She was recently murdered during the X-Men's Hellfire Gala, with her murderer being hunted in The Trial of Magneto (and our own speculation piece). Interested in more? Make sure you've read all the best Scarlet Witch / Wanda Maximoff comics available. 11. Raven (Image credit: DC) Raven is just scratching the surface of her potential as a solo character, with graphic novels such as Teen Titans: Raven , but her history in the DC Universe makes her one of the publisher's most important (and cool) female heroes ever. Making her debut in a brief short in 1980's DC Comics Presents #26 , Marv Wolfman and George Perez quickly carried their creation over to their landmark New Teen Titans run, in which she became one of the team's breakout characters, standing out even in a whole team of nothing but breakout characters. Raven's mysterious, magical nature as the daughter of the demon Trigon, one of the Teen Titans' greatest foes, allows her a whole host of mystical abilities. Described as an empath, Raven has displayed telekinesis, telepathy, teleportation, astral projection, and of course mastery of many forms of sorcery and magic. But what makes Raven stand out, along with her dark history as the daughter of a demon, is the way she breaks the mold for one of the oldest tropes in super-team comic books, the troubled badass whose past always comes back to haunt their efforts to be a hero, a la Wolverine. (Charlie from It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia would call this the "wildcard" role.) Moving the archetype away from the hardcore masculinity that usually accompanies a team's 'lone wolf' member, Raven struggled not with a murderous berserker rage or a problematic unrequited love, but the challenges of being a young woman alongside the looming threat of her demonic ancestry. Essentially, Raven embodies the 'angry goth girl' archetype, but in a way that backs up her edginess with a decades-long character arc and near limitless power. This aspect of Raven's personality is often a subject of comedy in the Teen Titans and subsequent Teen Titans Go! animated series, making her one of the most popular characters of those shows as well as an ongoing cult favorite comic book character. 10. Catwoman (Image credit: DC) Ever since she first appeared in 1940's Batman #1, Catwoman has skirted the line between hero and villain enough that she even made it to our list of the best female supervillains ever. But the fact is, for the last several decades, she's been primarily focused on life as a hero, even if her methods are sometimes questionable (especially to her on-again-off-again lover Batman). A master thief whose physical prowess matches her cunning Catwoman is one of Gotham's most complex costumed residents. She prowls the streets protecting those who need her most but also taking many opportunities to steal from those whose wealth could benefit Gotham's downtrodden (and, let's be honest, Catwoman herself). In a world of morally grey male heroes, Catwoman stands apart as a woman with a complicated personality defined by many motivating factors, who usually winds up on the side of the angels even while also looking for her next big score. Interested in more? Read the best Catwoman comics available. 9. Captain Marvel (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Carol Danvers is just about the most powerful woman in the Marvel Universe and is arguably the publisher's top female hero. With cosmic powers, a background as a fighter pilot, a high-profile movie, and that crucial Avengers membership, she's everything great about superheroes wrapped up in one sleek package. It's no wonder the next phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe will likely put Carol front and center, as one of the pillars of the most popular superhero brand in the world. The themes of the classic story Captain Marvel: Higher, Further, Faster which redefined Carol's career and brought her into the role of Captain Marvel were adapted to the MCU Captain Marvel film and even lent its title as the film's tagline. Interested in more? Read all of the best Captain Marvel stories available. 8. She-Hulk (Image credit: Marvel Comics) To some, She-Hulk is the ultimate expression of feminine power. She's indestructible, super-strong, and without inhibition all of this with the mind of a high-powered attorney wrapped inside those unparalleled green muscles. And while she may seem like a typical spin-off character (obviously riffing on her somewhat more famous cousin Bruce Banner), She-Hulk takes the concept of a gamma-irradiated hero to a totally different level, embracing her alter ego and living life to the fullest. In some ways, She-Hulk also broke other boundaries her original Sensational She-Hulk ongoing series introduced an indestructible, fourth-wall-breaking hero with a sense of humor years before Deadpool grew a similar schtick. She-Hulk was Deadpool before there even was a Deadpool. She-Hulk is a core member of the current Avengers, and she's getting her own MCU show on Disney Plus in 2022. 7. Supergirl (Image credit: DC Comics) Supergirl may have started as a spin-off character from Superman in her first appearance in 1959's Action Comics #252. But for many fans, she's become so much more than that. DC's Maid of Might represents a certain element of femininity that is often glossed over in fiction the balance of girlish glee and emotional exploration with confidence and physical power. Too often female characters must be one or the other, ultra-feminine or super-powerful, but Supergirl - who possesses all the strength of her cousin Superman while facing all the issues of a young woman - is at her best when writers strike a true balance between both sides of that coin, letting her be a real Supergirl. That dynamic played an important role in the CW's just-concluded Supergirl, a show that places a slightly older Kara in the central role and embraces her femininity without shying away from her ability to kick ass. Interested in more? Make sure you've read all of the best Supergirl stories of all time. 6. Harley Quinn (Image credit: DC) There's no question Harley Quinn started as an out-and-out villain, a sidekick to the Joker who was just as much into a life of comical crime as her clown prince boyfriend. But after enduring years of abuse at the Joker's hands, Harley finally emancipated herself of his influence and struck out on her own, first as a villain/anti-hero, and now, finally, as a hero in her own right. Though she spent a few years palling around with the Suicide Squad (who are anti-heroes at best) and she's still got associations with them, her most recent developments in the ' Joker War ' story have placed Harley Quinn squarely on the straight and narrow as one of Gotham's protectors in her own Harley Quinn series. For all that, and especially for her strength and solidarity in the face of escaping abuse and coming into her own as a hero and a character, Harley Quinn ranks as one of the greatest female superheroes ever. Interested in more? Make sure you've read all the best Harley Quinn comics of all time. 5. Invisible Woman (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Marvel's first superheroine (debuting 60 years ago this year in Fantastic Four #1) may not have the highest profile of the characters on this list, but Sue Storm set the pace for modern female heroes and still occupies a fairly unique place in comic books. While it's true that early stories didnt exactly serve Sue particularly well, she developed into the heart and soul of the Fantastic Four, serving as Marvel's first family's de facto and literal mother. And that may be one of the most crucial aspects of her character. While Sue Storm is powerful in her own right many writers have said she's got the most raw power of anyone on the FF she also represents an important aspect of womanhood that many female heroes have sacrificed or had used against them motherhood. That Sue can serve as one of the most respected heroes in the Marvel Universe (and its first female hero) while simultaneously raising two children and shepherding the growth of many more through the Future Foundation can't be understated. Plus, it takes a pretty amazing woman to stand up to a blowhard like Reed Richards. 4. Black Widow (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Black Widow has been around as a character since the '60s, but it's only recently that she's become a particularly prominent heroine in the Marvel Universe, thanks in large part to her role as a founding member of the cinematic Avengers. But the fact that her recent success has mostly been due to her onscreen adventures doesn't discount her role in comic books, either. Though she started as a villain, it wasn't long before Black Widow became an Avenger, a career she's balanced with her black ops work alongside SHIELD and on her own, even leading the team for a time. Black Widow's solo big-screen prequel was finally released this summer, and her ongoing comic book series is going strong. Interested in more? Make sure you've read the best Black Widow comics available. 3. Batgirl (Image credit: DC Comics) Barbara Gordon is unique among female heroes, and superheroes in general, for having not one but two vastly different and very successful superhero careers which years later are only now just merging into one. Barbara started out as Batgirl, using her wits, her incredible intelligence, and her physical capabilities to earn Batmans trust as an ally and protege. However, after years of fighting crime on the streets of Gotham, a violent encounter with the Joker left her paralyzed but not deterred. Now using a wheelchair, Barbara turned to her intelligence to make a difference (while maintaining a peak physical condition to boot). Taking on the mantle of Oracle, Barbara became the information hub for Batmans entire network and lead the all-female superhero team the Birds of Prey. These days, she's back in action as Batgirl, her spinal injuries having been healed with technology as part of the 'New 52' reboot. But more recently she's indicated she has to be more careful physically, and more and more she's returning to her role as Oracle, serving as the central cog to the entire Bat-family and a co-star of the Nightwing series. But even if she finds herself more seated in front of computer monitors than swinging from rooftops in the coming years, a new team of Batgirls mentored by Babs seems determined to fill the void and further cement her legacy. 2. Storm (Image credit: Marvel Comics) Storm started as the X-Men's ingenue; a young heroine who was one of the rookie mutants recruited when the original team went missing, joining in Giant-Size X-Men #1. Alongside other X-Men mainstays like Wolverine, Nightcrawler, and Colossus, Storm rose through the ranks becoming not just a seasoned hero, but a mentor to her fellow mutants, and at several points a leader in the team. After recent events in 'Dawn of X', 'X of Swords', and the 'Hellfire Gala,' Storm has ascended to be the ruler of Mars - renamed Planet Arakko - as part of mutantkind's growth past Krakoa. Storm is also the first major Black woman superhero a distinction that shouldn't be overlooked, especially considering how important she's remained in both X-Men and Marvel lore. 1. Wonder Woman (Image credit: DC Comics) Diana of Themiscyra represents the best of mankind, and of womanhood. Strong, compassionate, fearless, and independent, as Wonder Woman Diana is a pillar of the Justice League and one of the greatest heroes and warriors in the entire DC Universe. And though her real-world origins are complex, William Moulton Marston and his collaborators Elizabeth Holloway Marston and Olive Byrne created an equally complex character who would grow to become a feminist icon and the character that almost anyone in the world thinks of when you say "female superhero." DC has subtly elevated Wonder Woman to perhaps the tip-top of the DC comic book pantheon in terms of stature, putting her on par with her fellow 'Trinity' partners Superman and Batman with a whole series of spin-off titles including Nubia and the Amazons and Wonder Girl. Interested? Make sure you've read all the best Wonder Woman stories available ht there. Love comics but don't know where to start? Here's our guide to comic shops and what to expect. GamesRadar+ is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more Wonder Woman "Trial of the Amazons" crossover to elevate Themiscyra to Gotham City and Metropolis status Three of the masterminds behind DC's upcoming Woman Woman Trial of the Amazons crossover open up about what to expect Sorry! This content is not available in your region Dear Newsie Readers, Newsie has now permanently ceased it's services as of Friday 20th December 2019. Newsie has been an owner-funded operation since day one. Coming up to three years old, while we still firmly believe Newsie has a place in the New Zealand media landscape, the cost in both time and money has become too burdensome for the owners to continue alongside other ventures. With the current government looking to restructure public broadcasting, and seemingly supporting NZME buying a ring-fenced Stuff, the time seems right to call it a day. Should it happen, the combination of NZME and Stuff will ensure New Zealands national media will die a death by a thousand opinion-based articles. Newsie has always tried to stick to balanced news, to inform readers of the facts of a situation, amid being largely ignored by government. Hopefully, one day someone else will take up the challenge to fight the good fight. The good news, however, is that there were no job losses as a result of Newsie closing. Thanks to careful structuring, everyone involved in Newsie will retain their current positions. We hope you all have a happy Christmas and new year. Stay safe, and stay out of the news. The team at Newsie Trying to meet all your book preview and review needs. the complete review - autobiographical / fiction All Happy Families by Herve Le Tellier general information | review summaries | our review | links | about the author A Memoir French title: Toutes les familles heureuses Translated by Adriana Hunter - Return to top of the page - Our Assessment: B+ : fully engaging account of growing up in an odd family See our review for fuller assessment. Review Summaries Source Rating Date Reviewer FAZ . 26/11/2018 Cornelius Wullenkemper L'Obs . 3/10/2017 Jerome Garcin TLS . 29/3/2019 Sheena Joughin From the Reviews : "Herve Le Tellier (...) literarisiert in seinem neuen Roman ganz ungezwungen, oft ironisch, nie hamisch, mal wutend, mal nachdenklich den Fehler im System Familie. (...) Herve Le Tellier zeichnet mit hintersinnigem Humor in geistreich plaudernden Kapiteln ebenso eingangige wie lebendige Personenportrats. Zugleich eroffnet er Einblicke in die franzosische Gesellschafts- und Mentalitatsgeschichte der letzten siebzig Jahre. (...) Ungluckliche Familien bieten eben den besseren literarischen Stoff, zumindest in diesem Sinne hatte Tolstoi Recht. Herve Le Tellier hat daruber einen Roman geschrieben, der das Lebensthema Familie sehr charmant vom Kopf auf die Fue stellt." - Cornelius Wullenkemper, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung "Bref, a une epoque ou, en litterature, le malheur est devenu une posture, on applaudit l'art et la maniere avec lesquels le billettiste de Guerre et plaies, qui fut auxiliaire a la morgue de Cochin, flasheur a Liberation et gardien de nuit en clinique psychiatrique, tourne son enfance desastreuse en derision et sa parentele en grand-guignol." - Jerome Garcin, L'Obs "(T)here is no emotional excavation here, no retrospective compassion or attempt to understand. (...) (H)is adversary is finally tame, but his concluding boast of escape rings false. His obsessive resentment remains unresolved, and we are left with a queasy feeling." - Sheena Joughin, Times Literary Supplement Please note that these ratings solely represent the complete review 's biased interpretation and subjective opinion of the actual reviews and do not claim to accurately reflect or represent the views of the reviewers. Similarly the illustrative quotes chosen here are merely those the complete review subjectively believes represent the tenor and judgment of the review as a whole. We acknowledge (and remind and warn you) that they may, in fact, be entirely unrepresentative of the actual reviews by any other measure. - Return to top of the page - The complete review 's Review : Presented in French (e.g.) and, for example, the German translation (right on the cover) as a novel, the English version of All Happy Families is being marketed as A Memoir: Americans (and perhaps the English) definitely prefer life-stories presented as true(-to-life) -- regardless of how made-up and literarily embellished they are -- while elsewhere readers are apparently more comfortable embracing the fictionality of even (especially ?) the personal account. Regardless of how one prefers to see/take it -- though surely fiction is always better --, All Happy Families is an autobiographical story, written in the first person. Le Tellier takes his title from the famous Tolstoyan quote, the opening of Anna Karenina -- translated here as: "All happy families are alike. Every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way" -- but of course he's not going to offer a story of one of those identically happy families. And already the opening paragraph makes fairly clear where he's coming from: So, apparently it's scandalous not to love your parents. Scandalous to wonder whether you should be ashamed because -- despite your youthful efforts -- you failed to find in your heart such a commonplace feeling as filial love. My father and stepfather are dead, my mother is mad. They won't read this book, and I felt I finally had the right to write it. There was too little father in my stepfather, no father at all in my father, and too much fakery and unhealthy love in my mother. I was an average student at high school, happy simply not to fail. I was and still am naturally lazy, but my brain had all the qualities of a sponge. Given my facility with certain subjects, some people might have wrongly concluded that I took an interest in them. I wasn't bad at languages. I'd been familiar with English since my childhood in Surrey; I started German in sixth grade, and Russian in eight grade. Whoever won the next war, I'd be ready to collaborate. - M.A.Orthofer, 23 March 2019 - Return to top of the page - : Oulipo site See Index of Biographical works under review See Index of Oulipo books See Index of French literature - Return to top of the page - About the Author : French author Herve Le Tellier was born in 1957. He is a member of the Oulipo. - Return to top of the page - New Delhi : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu on Friday launched a blistering attack on regional rival YSR Congress, saying that voting for the party would be like "writing your own death warrant". Speaking at a rally in Visakhapatnam, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief said, "Voting for TDP will be the victory of people, but voting for YSR Congress is like writing your own death warrant." The Andhra Pradesh chief minister appealed people to vote for the TDP in the crucial Lok Sabha elections as polls will decide the future of the state. "The Lok Sabha elections will decide the future of the state. People should vote for TDP for better future and development," Naidu said. Naidu accused YSR Congress chief Jagan Reddy of looting public money and said that the development of the state will be hampered if he comes to power. "Jagan (YSRCP chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy) is an anarchist. If he comes to power, state development will be hampered. He is an expert in crimes. If he comes to power, there will be no law and order in the state," he said. The TDP chief also alleged that the YSR Congress chief was behind the murder of his own uncle. "Jagan Reddy's paternal uncle was killed in his own house, but they tried to make people believe that it was a heart attack. They tampered with evidence and altered the crime scene," he said. The Andhra chief minister highlighted the welfare schemes launched by him and promised to bring water from Godavari river to Visakhapatnam. "I am like an elder son in every family. I gave financial support to 98 lakh DWCRA (Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas) sisters under the Pasupu Kumkuma scheme. I provided welfare pension of Rs. 2000 to senior citizens. We will bring water from the Godavari to Visakhapatnam and the Uttara Andhra Sujala Sravanti project will be completed in a year," he said. New Delhi: The Congress on Saturday released a list of candidates for the Sikkim (32 candidates) and Arunachal Pradesh (53 candidates) assembly elections, fielding former Arunachal chief minister Nabam Tuki in both state and Lok Sabha polls.A Tuki will contest from Sagalee (ST) seat. The former Arunachal Pradesh chief minister is set for a face-off in the Arunachal West parliamentary constituency. On Thursday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its list candidates for the ensuing assembly elections in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. In Sikkim, the BJP has released the second list with 12 candidates, while the first list with six names for Arunachal Pradesh after the Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting approved the lists. Congress releases list of candidates for Sikkim (32 candidates) and Arunachal Pradesh (53 candidates) assembly elections. pic.twitter.com/5s1qQ3xpxP a ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2019 The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and all other members of the CEC. The 60-assembly of Arunachal Pradesh will go to polls on April 11 simultaneously with the Lok Sabha poll. The northeastern state of Sikkim will have its assembly polls on April 11 simultaneously with the Lok Sabha poll. The Sikkim legislative assembly has 32 seats. Ahmedabad: India does not have a clear vision and ecosystem in place for the promotion of electric cars, German auto major Volkswagens senior executive said. Steffen Knapp, director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars (India), also said that the government needs to provide subsidies to make the electric vehicle (EV) segment attractive for the industry to invest in India. India needs to have a political framework and a clear vision for electric cars... For (promotion of electric cars), there has to be a lot of subsidies, Knapp said at an event in the city. He was here to mark the companys 10 years of association with Automark Motors, one of carmakers leading dealers. Commenting on the requisite infrastructure for EVs in the country, he pointed out that there was no clear policy or standardisation with regards to (battery) charging stations. He said industry representatives are in talks with the government regarding the same and things are in process. Our concept for going from classical combustion diesel and petrol engine to electrified car is massive. We will launch in coming years around 70 EV products, Knapp said. He also said that the company has announced Rs 8,000 crore investment for development of products in India in the next five years. The first product will come out in 2020, he said. He also said a development centre is coming up at Chakan near Pune, which already has a manufacturing facility. New Delhi: With its huge campus and large auditoriums, the Jamia Millia Islamia is increasingly becoming a favourite option for filmmakers to shoot their projects. While the Delhi University continues to be a favourite with Bollywood, the filmmakers say they usually avoid going to the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) as securing permissions there is a tedious process. According to sources, the reason behind the JMI opening its doors for shoots can also be attributed to fund cuts by the government. They said the varsity administration has become lenient with shoots and that has helped the filmmakers. Professor Majid Jamil, the secretary of Jamia Teachers Association, said the varieties have been asked to generate their own funds and efforts are underway to generate own fund resources. For the last two years, the varsity has been facing issues in paying salaries of teachers. The varsity had to even break its fixed deposits to pay the salaries of teachers. Every university is facing these issues and most of the research and development activities are being hampered, he added. The grand finale of Bigg Boss 12 was shot in one of the auditoriums of JMI, while a film titled Doordarshan starring Mahie Gill was recently shot in the campus. An advertisement of Subway India was also shot in one of the classrooms of the varsity where the makers spent close to Rs 2-2.5 lakh in renovating the classroom according to their requirement, the sources said. Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali recently visited the campus for a recce for his film Love Aaj Kal 2 since he wanted to shoot a scene in a science laboratory but since the varsitys lab did not fit his requirements, he will now be shooting that particular portion in Mumbai, the sources added. The varsity will soon play host to Kangana Ranaut starrer Panga, the sources said. A Malayalam film was also recently shot in the campus. The campus of JMI is huge and we do not have to worry about procuring additional security as we can shoot without worrying about our actors getting mobbed. The varsity has a strong security in place, said Line Producer Javed Khan. He secured permission for shooting the film Doorsdarshan and also the commercial for Subway India. Khan said the varsity provides several options through its auditoriums, classrooms and lawns. Every centre of the varsity has a different look. We can even recreate government offices in the varsity, he added. While Khan did not talk about the rates charged by the varsity, he said the JMI offers an economical option for shoots. He said the Delhi University is more expensive than the JMI. The sources claimed that shooting in the JMI costs Rs 50,000 per day and the varsity gives concession if the film has a social message. The Delhi University, with its ambience, despite the high rates has been a favourite with Bollywood. Shahid Kapoor starrer Kabir Singh was recently shot in Miranda House while Amazon Primes web series Breathe 2 featuring Abhishek Bachchan and Amit Sadh was shot in Kirori Mal College, the sources said. In the Delhi University, one mostly has to shoot during vacation time as there is always a threat of the actors getting mobbed but if there is an urgent requirement, the colleges give permission even on working days, said Line Producer Navmeet Singh. Singh said colleges like Kirori Mal, Hansraj and Miranda House are quite open for allowing shoots while it is difficult to procure permission to shoot in the St Stephens College. The sources said the cost of shooting in Kirori Mal college, Hansraj college and Miranda House is anywhere between Rs 2-2.5 lakh. Arjun Kapoor-Shraddha Kapoor starrer Half Girlfriend was shot in the St Stephens College and the sources claimed that the makers had to shell out Rs 3 lakh for each day they shot in the college. The sources claimed that the JNU is not very open to the idea of film shoots and even filmmakers prefer to stay away from shooting there. We have applied for permission to the JNU earlier but have not got a response. The perception of the varsity is that it is very political and filmmakers prefer to stay away from shooting there, said Singh. Even for the film Raanjhana, in which Sonam Kapoor and Abhay Deol played JNU students, the varsity was recreated in some other university in Noida. New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday released the sixth list of 48 candidates (one independent candidate) for Lok Sabha Elections 2019. The list has names of candidates from six states - Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Karnataka. With these names, the BJP has so far declared a total of 297 candidates out of which one is an independent candidate to which the party has decided to support in the forthcoming general elections. "We will support Sumalatha as the independent candidate from Mandya (Karnataka)," said senior party leader JP Nadda while addressing a press conference in the national capital. Sumalatha Ambareesh, the veteran actor and wife of late former Congress lawmaker MH Ambareesh, made headlines after she announced that she would contest from Mandya parliamentary constituency as an independent candidate. Her husband had represented Mandya both as Member of Parliament (MP) and Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA). After Ambareesh's demise in November 2018, people of the constituency started pressurising Sumalatha to contest polls from Manyda seat. Veteran party leader and sitting Kangra MP Shanta Kumar has been denied tickets. Kishan Kapoor will replace the octogenarian leader as the BJP nominee from Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. Other big names in the sixth list are Anurag Thakur from Hamirpur (Himachal Pradesh), Suresh Kashyap from Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), Kishan Kapoor from Kangra (Himachal Pradesh) and Nishikant Dubey from Godda (Jharkhand). Union Ministers Narendra Singh Tomar, Jayant Sinha, Shripad Naik to contest from Morena (Madhya Pradesh), Hazaribagh (Jharkhand) and North Goa seats. The list has been announced after the Central Election Committee (CEC) of the BJP met under the presidentship of party chief Amit Shah on Friday. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley, Sushma Swaraj, Nitin Gadkari and all other members of the Central Election Committee of the BJP, the party said in a release. The Lok Sabha Elections 2019 will be held in seven phases, starting from April 11, while the results of all the phases will be declared on May 23. Announcing the seven-phase schedule for 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora also said 10 lakh polling stations would be set up this time as against about nine lakhs in 2014. In the first phase, 91 constituencies will go for polls, 97 constituencies in the second phase, 115 constituencies in the third, 71 in the fourth phase, 51 in the fifth phase, 59 in the sixth phase and 59 in the seventh phase. In the first phase, the polling will be held in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, Sikkim, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Andaman and Nicobar, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, Lakshadweep, Delhi, Puducherry, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand. New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday announced that it will support independent candidate and multi lingual actress Sumalatha Ambareesh who is contesting from Mandya parliamentary seat in Karnataka. She will take on Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamyas son Nikhil in the Lok Sabha polls. Sumalatha, the veteran actor and wife of late former Congress lawmaker MH Ambareesh, made headlines after she announced that she would contest from Mandya parliamentary constituency as an independent candidate. Her husband had represented Mandya both as Member of Parliament (MP) and Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA). She made this announcement after being denied a ticket by the Congress, which is now facing trouble in the district over conceding the seat to it's ruling coalition partner JD(S). JP Nadda, BJP: We will support Sumalatha as the independent candidate from Mandya (Karnataka). pic.twitter.com/rt33U8BGmi a ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2019 After Ambareesh's demise in November 2018, people of the constituency started pressurising Sumalatha to contest polls from Manyda seat. The actress has about 200 films in Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil and Hindi to her credit. BJP's Central Election Committee Secretary Jagat Prakash Nadda announced the partyas decision to support Sumalatha, as he read out the list of candidates for various Lok Sabha seats across the country in Delhi. With Congress ruling out fielding Sumalatha for Mandya, saying it would go to JD(S), clamour had grown within BJP to induct her and field her as the candidate, as a section believed it would help the saffron party, which doesn't have much presence in the Vokkaliga bastion. She had filed her nomination as an independent on Wednesday and enjoys the support of many within the Kannada film industry, with film stars Darshan and Yash among others by her side during campaigning. Sumalatha had also sought the support of senior BJP leader and former Karnataka Chief Minister S M Krishna, a prominent Vokkaliga leader from Mandya. Despite losing Mandya Lok Sabha seat in the bypolls in November 2018, BJP had made significant inroads, with party candidate Siddaramaiah, a political greenhorn and former civil servant securing 2,44,404 votes, its best performance there. BJP on Saturday also announced that Muniswamy S, a Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike corporator from Kadugudi, would be its candidate for the Kolar Lok Sabha seat. With the announcement for two seats on Saturday, BJP has so far announced candidates for 23 (including Mandya) out of the total of 28 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The first list of 21 candidates was announced on Thursday. With PTI Inputs New Delhi: Varanasi, the VIP constituency of Uttar Pradesh, will see an interesting battle in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Sajad Noorabadi, a political activist from Kashmir, is gearing up for a very special mission. If everything falls in place for the activist, the political rivals in the Varanasi battle will see a lesser known candidate from Kashmir. Noorabadi is out on a mission to defeat PM Modis communal ideology. The 30-year-old comes from Kulgam district of south Kashmir, the hotbed of terror in the Valley. Talking to News Nation, he said, I am in contact with some national, regional political parties to secure a ticket for contesting against PM Modi in Varanasi. Everything is in the final stage and everyone is united against Modis ideology of hate. I am all set for the campaigning and will be going there soon. Earlier, Noorabadi had filed nomination against then chief minister Mehbooba Mufti for the Anantnag bypoll. The Election Commission had cancelled the by-election to the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the situation is not conducive for conducting polls in the valley as the region is witnessing a spike in violence and protests. In case no party gives me a ticket, I will fight as an independent candidate, he told News Nation. Noorabadi was arrested in 2014 for running election boycott campaign. He says that he couldnt resist how Gandhis secular India was being hijacked. Silence of good people makes the nation suffer, Sajad says this quote inspired him to join the mainstream. Noorabadi has launched his own party Tehreek-i-Insaaf with his friends which is yet to be registered by the Election Commission. Kashmir is nuclear flash point between India and Pakistan which needs to be resolved immediately through dialogue. I am out to make sure Kashmiris no more face the heat of this issue. I want the Central government to hear our voice and initiate constructive dialogue with all the relevant stakeholders, he says. "My intensions are pure, I am sure there are people of Varanasi will understand my message of peace, he says. He is hopeful that right-minded people would accept and vote for him. The polling will be held on April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19 for 543 Lok Sabha seats across the country in which nearly 90 crore voters would be eligible to vote. Assembly elections will also be held in Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Odisha simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls. However, elections for Jammu and Kashmir assembly have been deferred, the EC said citing security reasons. New Delhi: A day after reports suggest that Jitin Prasad may join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), sources on Saturday said the senior Congress leader and two-time Lok Sabha MP may contest from Lucknow in the Lok Sabha elections 2019. On Friday, Prasada refused to answer a question regarding reports that he might join the BJP. Speaking to media, Prasada said, "There should be some basis for such a question. Why should I answer a hypothetical question?" The Congress Rajya Sabha MP won from Shahjahanpur and Dhaurahra Lok Sabha constituencies in the 2004 and 2009 Lok Sabha elections, respectively. The BJP on Thursday Home Minister Rajnath Singh from the Lucknow constituency. Sources said some senior Congress leaders including Jyotiraditya Scindia met Prasada on Friday afternoon in a bid to placate him and Prasada relented after senior party leader Ahmed Patel spoke to him later in the evening. Prasada was reportedly unhappy at not being given a senior responsibility within the party, whereas his peers have been made PCC chiefs or in-charges in many states. His name was earlier doing the rounds for the post of PCC chief in Uttar Pradesh. Prasada is the son of Congress veteran Jitendra Prasada who had unsuccessfully contested against Sonia Gandhi for the post of Congress president in 2000. When asked about the speculation regarding Prasada quitting, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala was derisive in his response. "Jitin Bhai and I go back a long way. So even on personal capacity, I can say and I do never use such words but I think it is bullshit," said Surjewala. Prasada said speculation about him joining the archrival BJP is "hypothetical". "There should be some basis for such a question. Why should I answer a hypothetical question?" he said to queries about whether he was joining the BJP. The sources said Prasada is also upset about the choice of party candidates around his constituency which he fears may harm his poll prospects. Meanwhile, National Conference chief Omar Abdullah questioned Prasada's response. "Why can't Jitin Prasada just give a categorical denial? It's hardly a hypothetical question when every news channel is carrying reports," he tweeted. New Delhi: Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday launched a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee saying that she makes fake promises. The Congress chief also accused her of running the entire state according to her whims. "Bengal is being run by just one person. She neither talks to anyone nor takes anybody's suggestion. She does whatever she feels like," Gandhi said while addressing a rally in this town in Malda district. "Does Bengal not have any voice? Is it not important for Bengal to have its own voice? Should one person be allowed to run an entire state?" he asked. Gandhi also accused Banerjee of having done nothing for the state's people. "Nothing has been done for the farmers, youths here. Unemployment is everywhere. Only Mamata ji's speeches go on all day long. Tell me what has she (Banerjee) done for you? Has she revoked the taxes for the farmers? Has she given employment to the youths or helped out the small businessmen?" he questioned while the massive crowd responded with a resounding "No". People used to be targeted and terrorised under the Left rule and the same continued under the Mamata Banerjee dispensation, he said. "Congress activists are throttled and beaten up every day... I want to congratulate all our party activists who fight for the politics of principle. I want to tell them to keep fighting for Congress and its ideology. Do not be afraid. I am with you. (We will) form government in Delhi. Then you will see what happens," he said. He thanked the people of Malda, a traditional Congress bastion, for always standing by his party and assured he will try to fulfil all their wishes. "I want to thank you because you have always stood with Congress. You have always given us love and support no matter what the condition of the party is. I will not forget this in my entire life. I will remember this when our party forms the government in Delhi. "I will fulfil all your needs. Be it farmers' issue, issues with jobs or land, I will try to help you out so long I am alive. Our relation is of love, not of politics," he said. Gandhi's rally in the North Malda constituency, once a Congress bastion, assumes significance as the party is facing an uphill task to hold onto its base due to large-scale defections of party leaders, including its sitting MP Mausam Benazir Noor, to the Trinamool Congress. Without naming Noor, who is the niece of the late Congress stalwart ABA Ghani Khan Chowdhury and has been fielded by the Trinamool Congress this time, Gandhi said she "cheated you by leaving the party" and appealed to the electorate to vote for Congress candidate Isha Khan Chowdhury. He promised that if his party comes to power, it will bring in the minimum income guarantee scheme. With Agency Inputs New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday slammed the Congress in his blog on the occasion of Ram Manohar Lohia's birth anniversary. Modi said that while the Congress claims to be the follower of Lohia, the party never followed the path shown by him and "completely abandoned his principles". In the blog, which starts with tributes to revolutionaries Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru, Modi said that the those who were betraying the principals of Lohia, will betray the nation if they come in power. The prime minister claimed that anti-Congressism was Lohias heart and soul and whenever he spoke whether inside or outside Parliament, the Congress trembled with fear. He said that it was "ironical and reprehensible" that parties that "falsely" claim to be Lohias followers are desperate to form an "opportunistic adulteration alliance" with the same Congress. Below is the full text of Modi's blog on Lohia: Today is a day to honour revolutionaries. We pay tributes to great sons of Mother India - Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru for their ultimate sacrifice. We bow to a prolific thinker, exceptional intellectual, revolutionary and devout patriot, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia on his Jayanti. Dr. Lohia combined a sharp mind and a penchant for mass politics. When top leaders were arrested during the Quit India movement, a young Dr. Lohia remained unfazed, went underground and even started an underground radio station to further the movement. In the history of Goas liberation, the name of Dr. Lohia is etched in golden letters. Wherever the marginalised needed a voice, Dr. Lohia was there. Dr. Lohias thoughts inspire us. He wrote about modernising agriculture and empowering farmers, which the NDA Government is effectively doing through efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and more. Nothing pained Dr. Lohia more than the caste hierarchy and inequality between women and men. Our Mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas as well as our track record in the last five years show that we have made a long-lasting contribution in fulfilling the vision of Dr. Lohia. He would surely have been very proud of the NDA Governments work. Whenever Dr. Lohia spoke, inside or outside Parliament, the Congress trembled with fear. Dr. Lohia knew how disastrous Congress was. In 1962 he said, During the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the army has improved. These words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored. Anti-Congressism was Dr. Lohias heart and soul. His efforts ensured a shock to the then all-powerful Congress in 1967 elections. That time, Atal Ji remarked- Due to Dr. Lohias efforts, one could travel on board the Howrah-Amritsar Mail without having to pass a single Congress state! Unfortunately, today Dr. Lohia would be horrified at the political developments taking place. Those parties that claim inspiration from Dr. Lohia have completely abandoned his principles. They are leaving no opportunity to insult him. The veteran socialist leader from Odisha, Shri Surendranath Dwivedy remarked, He (Dr. Lohia) was imprisoned many times more during Congress regime than under the British rule. Yet, today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr. Lohias followers are desperate to form an opportunistic Maha Milawat or adulteration alliances with the same Congress. It is both ironical and reprehensible. Dr. Lohia always believed that dynastic politics was inimical to democracy. He would have been flabbergasted to see his followers think about their own families first instead of the nation. Dr. Lohia stated that one who works with Samta, Samanata and Samatva Bhaav is a Yogi. Sadly, the parties that claim to be his followers forgot this principle. They believe in Satta, Swarth and Shoshan. These parties are experts at grabbing power, looting as much as possible and exploiting others. Poor people, Tribals, Dalits, OBCs and women are not safe in their rule because these parties give a free run to criminals and anti-social elements. In his works, Dr. Lohia called for complete equality between men and women. But, neck deep in vote bank politics, it was parties that dishonestly claim to be Dr. Lohias followers that opposed the NDA Governments move to abolish the inhuman practice of Triple Talaq. Is the commitment to vote bank politics bigger than the commitment to Dr. Lohias thoughts? Today, a moot question facing 130 crore Indians is: How can those who betrayed Dr. Lohia be expected to serve the nation? Today they are betraying the principles of Dr. Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India. (The blog was originally published on Prime Narendra Modi's official website and shared by him on Twitter.) New Delhi: BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday slammed the Congress and demanded an apology from party chief Rahul Gandhi over its leader Sam Pitrodas remarks questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack. Pitrodas remarks are demoralising. National security is an important issue. Does Congress belief terror has no links with Pakistan? Congress President should explain it to the nation- do you consider such heinous attack (Pulwama attack) a routine incident? asked Shah while addressing a press conference. Targeting Congress chief Rahul Gandhi over Pitrodas remarks in reference to Pulwama attack that an entire nation cannot be held responsible for a deed by seven-eight people, Shah wondered if the Congress believed that the Pakistan government and military were involved in the dastardly attack. If a country shouldn't be held responsible for deeds of 7-8 people, does Congress believe that Pakistan government and military has a connection with terror attacks here? If there is a connection, who is the culprit, Congress party should answer, Shah said. If terror attacks shouldn't be responded with surgical strikes and air strikes, and should be dealt with talks, is this Congress' policy to deal with terrorism. Congress President should respond on this, he added. Furthering his attack on Rahul, Shah asked him to clear his stand who he supported and said that doubting the Indian Air Force was not right from the president of a national party. "Who do you (Rahul Gandhi) support? Doubting the Indian Air Force is not right for the national president of any party. You stand in support when slogans are raised against the country in JNU, and call it the freedom of expression," said Amit Shah. Pitroda, the Indian Overseas Congress chief, on Friday told media that one cannot "jump on entire nation" (Pakistan) just because some people from there "came here and attacked". In an apparent reference to the Pulwama terror attack, the Congress leader said attacks happen all the time and then referred to the Mumbai terror strikes in 2008 when the Congress-led UPA was in power, saying the then government could have sent its planes but that is "not the right approach". He also sought more facts from the Modi government on Balakot air strikes last month while referring to international media reports questioning claims that over 300 terrorists were killed in the IAF action. His remarks drew sharp reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The prime minister said Pitroda, Congress president Rahul Gandhi's "most trusted advisor and guide", has kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of his party, "ironically by demeaning India's armed forces". New Delhi: BS Yeddyurappas son BY Raghavendra has trashed the media report, which had alleged that the former Karnataka chief minister had paid Rs 1,800 crore bribe to BJPs top brass. The Congress had yesterday held a press conference and demanded a Lokpal probe into the alleged bribery scam. Talking to reporters a day later, BY Raghavendra called the media report as joke of the year. He went on to say that his father is not in habit of writing diaries. It's joke of the year, opposition created this, 1st thing my father doesn't have the habit of writing a diary, 2nd thing, signature on all pages? Creator of diary should have basic knowledge. BJP demands fair inquiry, BY Raghavendra was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Yeddyurappa had also rubbished as "atrocious and malicious" the bribe allegations. The allegation has been already inquired into by the Income Tax department and it has been found that documents are "fake", the former Karnataka Chief Minister claimed, terming it as a "closed chapter". He accused the Congress of raising the issue as it was "frustrated" over its "imminent defeat" in Lok Sabha polls. The Lingayat strongman also said he was talking to legal experts on filing a defamation case. "To be frank all the issues being raised by Congress including one raised by them today about alleged payment of crores of rupees has been already inquired and it was found that documents are fake," Yeddyurappa said in a statement. He said the Income Tax department officials found that the documents, signatures and handwritten notes were forged. According to the media report, the Income Tax department is in possession of diaries maintained by former Chief Minister in which he had noted down payoffs allegedly made to top BJP leaders. According to the report, the diaries had Yeddyurappa noting down payments made in 2009. Irrespective of what the status of the probe in the Yeddy diaries, the fact is it will become a major poll issued in Congress-ruled Karnataka. Karnataka will vote in two phases on April 18 (second phase) and on April 23 (third phase). Polling will be held in 14 seats on Kolar, Mandya, Mysore, Tumkur, Chamarajnagar, Bangalore North, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South, Bangalore Rural, Udupi-Chikmagalur, Chitradurga, Hassan, Dakshina Kannada and Chikkballapur in the second phase. The remaining 14 seats of Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Koppal, Bidar, Raichur, Shimoga, Davanagere, Uttara Kannada, Dharwad, Haveri, Bellary, Chikkodi and Belgaum will go for polls in the third phase. Interestingly, in 2014 Lok Sabha Elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) performed extremely well after the return of BS Yeddyurappa in the party fold. The 2014 election in Karnataka was held in a single phase on April 17. The state sends 28 members to the Lok Sabha. The BJP won 17 of these seats whereas the Congress was restricted to just 9 seats in the state. The Janata Dal-Secular (JDS) was successful in the remaining 2 seats (Mandya and Hassan). In 2009, the BJP was successful on 19 seats and the Congress and the JDS won 6 and 3 seats respectively. New Delhi: The Pakistan forces continued to violate ceasefire by shelling forward areas and posts along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, according to reports. The Indian Army, however, is retaliating beffitingly. At 5.30 pm on Saturday, the Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked ceasefire along the LoC. On Friday, two Army jawans were injured as Pakistani troops continued night-long mortar shelling and firing in Pallanwala, Sunderbani and Nowshera sectors of Jammu and Kashmir. The two Army jawans, who were injured in Pallanwala sector, were admitted to a hospital, the officials said. On Thursday, an Army jawan was killed as Pakistani troops shelled forward areas and Indian posts with artillery and mortar bombs heavily along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Thiruvananthapuram: A drone was sighted at the airport, the highly sensitive Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and nearby Kovalam beach early Friday morning, prompting Southern Air Command and Military Intelligence to go on high alert. Southern Air Command and Military Intelligence are on high alert after the drone was sighted, defence sources said. "We are always on high alert. The present sighting of the drone is in the civilian area. We are not intervening in the current situation, but are monitoring the entire scenario," a defence spokesperson said. The drone was first sighted at Kovalam beach early Friday morning by a night patrolling group of Kerala police, who searched the area for its operators. As it started flying towards the north, where the airport is located, the team informed the airport authorities. However, after two hours, the CISF team at VSSC found the drone flying there and informed the authorities concerned. Police and the central intelligence agencies visited the VSSC and found that visuals of the drone was not available in any of the security cameras installed. The Airport, Pangode Military camp and other security installations in the city have been put on high alert. "We have monitored the radars installed at various areas and found that the drone might have been operated by some locals," a top police official said. The senior official also said the drone was suspected to be flying on a low altitude, thus evading radars. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. highlights Tension flared up between India and Pak after Pulwama attack. Subcontinent came on edge after Feb 26 IAF airstrike. IAF pilot was captured on Feb 26 after he downed F-16 jet. New Delhi: Dont touch Abhinandan or this means war this was the message that India sent to Pakistan after the Indian Air Force pilot was captured by the forces across the border on February 27 last month. According to a latest report by The Hindustan Times, India had decided to go ahead with the missile war in case the pilot is harmed. Islamabad had also said that it would have no option but to retaliate. The three nerve-wrecking days after the pilot was captured could have launched the most destructive war in the Indian Subcontinent. The report reveals that both Indian and Pakistani intelligence officials were in touch throughout the most-tense period in the bilateral ties between two nuclear armed neighbours. It all started after Pakistan announced to the world that it had arrested the Indian Air Force pilot from the Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman had ejected safely after downing Pakistans F-16 combat jet. He was captured by the locals, who later handed him over to the Pakistan Army personnel. Around 3 pm on February 27 the same day, India acknowledged that the pilot was in Pakistans captivity. This was all out in public. What was happening behind the walls of secrecy was continuous and consistent communication between Research and Analysis Wing secretary Anil Dhasmana and Inter Services Intelligence chief Lt Gen Asim Munir. Dhasmana clearly told Munir that Abhianandan must be kept safe. The HT report said that Indias 12 missiles deployed in Rajasthan were also discussed. At the same time, Indias National Security Advisor Ajit Doval spoke to his American counterpart John Bolton. It was communicated to Washington the PM Modi has given a go ahead to escalate the matter if something happens to the IAF pilot. The HT report also quoted a member of the Cabinet Committee of Security as saying that, India was prepared to go down the missile road on February 27. Indias tough message was clearly heard in Rawalpindi GHQ, the headquarters of the Pakistan Army. Both civilian and military leadership in Pakistan realised that they wont gain anything by keeping Abhinandan in their captivity. The HT report says that on February 27 itself, Pakistan had decided to release the IAF pilot. The announcement was made by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in Pakistan Assembly on February 28. On March 1st, Wg Cdr Abhinandan returned home via Wagah border. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Indias long wait to upgrade its firepower will end next week. According to latest report, indigenously-developed Dhanush howitzers will be inducted next week. Formal induction ceremony will be held at the Gun Carriage Factory in Jabalpur on March 26, a defence ministry official was quoted as saying by Time of India. After the Bofors scandal in 80s and subsequent trouble in deals involving South African Denal, Singapore Technology Kinetics, India was unable to upgrade its artillery arsenal. Indias first indigenous, long-range artillery gun Dhanush, aka Desi Bofors, was also showcased for the first time at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi this year. The 155-mm gun cost about Rs 14.50 crore a piece. Besides features like electronic gun-laying and sighting systems, the indigenous gun has a strike range of 38 km, which is 11 km more than the imported Bofors guns. The gun, a towed howitzer, has been developed by Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), Kolkata, after going through the design and documents running into over 12,000 pages which were given to India under the first phase of Transfer of Technology (ToT) as part of the Bofors gun deal in the late 1980s. The army had been desperately looking for 155-mm howitzers for more than a decade now. It had roped in an Israeli company, Soltam, to upgrade the imported, Russian-made 130-mm gun to 155-mm at GCF. But the project, after the upgraded guns trial, ran into hot water, the official claimed. The Modi government has expedited several key defence projects. Amid tension with Pakistan following the Pulwama terror attack, several experts had pointed out that Indian armed forces have poor inventory. In wake of such scenario, the Narendra Modi government on Wednesday passed a crucial defence project. According to news agency ANI, Nirmala Sitharaman-led defence ministry has cleared a major project for the Indian Army. The project will result in acquisition of 10 lakh 'made in India' multi-mode hand grenades. The new hand grenades will replace the existing inventory. The more than Rs 500 crore proposal is critical as the government has already taken care of the main personal weapon requirements of the Army soldiers by signing two contracts for modern rifles. (With agency inputs) For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Former Supreme Court Judge Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose on Saturday took oath as India's first Lokpal. President Ram Nath Kovind administered the Oath of Office to him at a ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu and Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi were present at the ceremony. Justice Ghose isA the most senior member of theA National Human Rights Commission, having been a part of it since June 2017. The selection was made weeks after the February-end deadline set by the Supreme Court. Former Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) chief Archana Ramasundaram, ex-Maharashtra Chief Secretary Dinesh Kumar Jain, Mahender Singh and Indrajeet Prasad Gautam have been appointed as non-judicial members of Lokpal. Delhi: Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose with PM Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu and Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi after taking oath as the first Lokpal of India pic.twitter.com/f5BeIaVmYq a ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2019 According to reports, his name was finalised by the selection committee,A comprising the prime minister, chief justice of India, Lok Sabha speaker and an eminent jurist, last week. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, a member of the Lokpal selection panel, had boycotted its meet last week when the name of Justice Ghose was approved.A Earlier, the Supreme Court had ordered the Lokpal search committee to recommend by February end a panel of names to appoint the country's first anti-corruption ombudsman. The top court had asked the Centre to make available requisite infrastructure, manpower, secretarial assistance and other necessities to enable the committee to commence its work immediately and conclude the search within the timeframe. The appointment has come through five years after the Lokpal Act was notified for effecting a panel of ombudsmen to look into cases of corruption and maladministration by public servants.A The Lokpal selection committee is headed by the prime minister and has as its members -- the Lok Sabha Speaker, leader of the opposition in the Lower House, Chief Justice of India or a judge of the apex court nominated by him, and an eminent jurist who could be nominated by the President or any other member. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Shaheed Diwas or Martyrs Day is marked on March 23 to remember the three brave freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru and Sukhdev Thapar who were hanged by the British. The young revolutionaries had a dream for free India that they so badly wanted but did not live to see. However, their sacrificed remained etched in the Indian conscience. Considered one of the most influential revolutionaries of the Indian Independence Movement Bhagat Singh, became a martyr at the age of 23. Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru were hanged on March 23, 1931, at 7.30 pm in the Lahore jail by Britishers. Their bodies were then cremated on the banks of the Sutlej River in Firozepur district of Punjab. On this day, we look back on some powerful quotes by Shaheed Bhagat Singh They may kill me, but they cannot kill my ideas. They can crush my body, but they will not be able to crush my spirit. Any man who stands for progress has to criticize, disbelieve and challenge every item of the old faith. Item by item he has to reason out every nook and corner of the prevailing faith. If after considerable reasoning one is led to believe in any theory or philosophy, his faith is welcomed. His reasoning can be mistaken, wrong, misled and sometimes fallacious. But he is liable to correction because reason is the guiding star of his life. But mere faith and blind faith is dangerous: it dulls the brain and makes a man reactionary. The aim of life is no more to control the mind, but to develop it harmoniously; not to achieve salvation here after, but to make the best use of it here below; and not to realise truth, beauty and good only in contemplation, but also in the actual experience of daily life; social progress depends not upon the ennoblement of the few but on the enrichment of democracy; universal brotherhood can be achieved only when there is an equality of opportunity - of opportunity in the social, political and individual life. 'Revolution' does not necessarily involve sanguinary strife nor is there any place in it for individual vendetta. It is not the cult of the bomb and the pistol. By 'Revolution' we mean that the present order of things, which is based on manifest injustice, must change. Revolution is an inalienable right of mankind. Freedom is an imperishable birth right of all. Labor is the real sustainer of society, the sovereignty of the ultimate destiny of the workers. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Yasin Malik-led Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front, which was banned by the government on Friday, was the first terrorist group to raise the slogan of 'azadi' in the state and among its first targets was a BJP leader, a Kashmiri Pandit, in 1989, officials said. The JKLF was responsible for a litany of terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir since 1980s. Raising the slogan of 'azadi', the group targeted Kashmiri Pandits, government employees and ordinary, peace-loving Kashmiri people, a security official said. The JKLF targeted a Kashmiri Pandit for the first time on September 14, 1989 when it killed Pandit Tikalal Taploo, the state BJP vice president, in front of several people, a security official said. The terror group was also involved in the blasts at three government buildings, including the Telegraph Office in Srinagar, on August 1, 1988.? JKLF terrorists killed Mohammad Yousuf Halwai, a local leader of the National Conference, in Srinagar on August 17, 1989 and shot dead retired sessions judge NK Ganjoo, who had sentenced JKLF leader Maqbool Butt to death, on October 4, 1989, the official said. The terror group also kidnapped Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of then Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, when she was returning home from a hospital in Srinagar on December 8, 1989. She was released five days later, on December 13, in exchange of the release of five JKLF terrorists from jail. Four IAF officers were killed by the terror outfit on January 25, 1990 when they were waiting at a bus stop along with their family members at Natipora in Srinagar. Twelve family members of the IAF personnel were also injured in the attack. Two of them later died in a hospital, another official said. A chargesheet in this case was filed in Jammu TADA court against Yasin Malik, the prime accused, and six others. Malik tried all methods in the book to escape the trial and moved a petition in 2008 for transfer of the case to Srinagar which was rejected, the official said. Against this order, he approached the Jammu and Kashmir High Court through a writ petition. For one reason or the other, hearing on this writ petition could not be completed till March 2019. The Union Home Ministry and the Jammu and Kashmir administration pursued the matter relentlessly and on March 13, 2019, the high court dismissed Malik's plea to transfer the trial to Srinagar. Trial in this case is expected to resume soon in Jammu, the official said. The JKLF continues to abet stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir, indulge in money laundering, provide financial and logistic support to separatist groups and glorify terrorist activities. The JKLF was declared an unlawful association yesterday by the central government. Crackdown on the JKLF is a sign that the Centre will not tolerate separatist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, while it keeps its doors open for all those peace-loving Kashmir people for dialogue, the official said. Malik is currently in a jail in Jammu. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The Centre has banned separatist Yasin Malik's Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The outfit has been banned for alleged promotion of secessionist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. "Central government has today declared Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (Yasin Malik faction) as unlawful association under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. This is in accordance with policy of zero tolerance against terrorism followed by government," Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said. The ban has united politicians in Kashmir across political lines, former chief minister and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti while hitting out at the Centre over its decision said, Yasin Malik renounced violence as a way of resolving J&K issue a long time ago. He was treated as a stakeholder in a dialogue initiated by then PM Vajpayee ji. What will a ban on his organisation achieve? Detrimental steps like these will only turn Kash into an open air prison (sic). National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah said, For four-and-a-half-years, Yasin Malik isnt a threat, Jamaat Islami isnt a threat, Pakistan National Day is a function that must be attended. Now, suddenly once an election is announced, an immediate u-turn is executed. Sajad Lone, speaking on similar lines said, From underground to overground. Was part of those arrested in a raid in Barzalla to arrest Yasin Malik in 1990. JKLF renounced violence in 90s. It was tantamount to suicide. At great risk Yasin Malik took that decision. And now stands banned. Shrinking space for peaceful dissent. This is the second organisation in Jammu and Kashmir which has been banned this month. Earlier, the Centre had banned the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir for five years under anti-terror law on grounds that it was in close touch with terrorist outfits and was expected to escalate secessionist movement in the state. The ban was ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) after a high-level meeting on national security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 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. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Traditional Dogon hunters killed at least 60 people in an attack on a Peul community village in central Mali on Saturday, military and local officials said. "At least 60 Peul civilians have been killed Saturday in the village of Ogossagou by traditional hunters, said a military source. Cheick Harouna Sankare, the mayor of neighbouring Ouenkoro, confirmed the toll. News agency Reuters reported that gunmen killed about 60 Fulani herders, in one of the deadliest such attacks in a region reeling from worsening ethnic and jihadist violence. The assault on the village of Ogossagou came as a U.N. Security Council mission visited Mali to try to find solutions to violence that killed hundreds of civilians last year and is spreading across West Africas Sahel region. Moulaye Guindo, mayor of the nearby town of Bankass, said the armed men, who were dressed as traditional Donzo hunters, encircled and attacked Ogossagou at about 4 a.m. (local time). Its a very heavy death toll, he told Reuters. The village of Ogossagou is completely devastated. Jihadist groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State have exploited ethnic rivalries in Mali and its neighbors Burkina Faso and Niger to boost recruitment and render vast swaths of territory virtually ungovernable, the news agency added. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. US sanctions on Iran and its Lebanese ally Hizbollah are working, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said yesterday on a visit to Beirut, calling on Lebanon to stand up to the Shiite group which he accused of criminality, terror, and threats. Lebanese politicians who met Pompeo, including President Michel Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil - all political allies of Hizbollah - said they had told him the group was part and parcel of Lebanese politics. Pompeo, touring the Middle East to drum up support for Washingtons harder line against Iran, cited a speech by Hizbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah this month asking the groups supporters for funds as evidence US pressure was working. Our pressure on Iran is simple. Its aimed at cutting off the funding for terrorists and its working, he said, standing alongside Bassil after their meeting. We believe that our work is already constraining Hizbollahs activities, Pompeo said Iran gave Hizbollah as much as $700 million a year. The heavily armed Hizbollah has a large militia that has taken part in Syrias civil war alongside President Bashar Al Assads government, but it also has elected members of parliament and positions in the national unity government. Dubai has paid tribute to New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern by displaying her image on the Burj Khalifa, the worlds tallest building. HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, hailed Arderns support for Muslims all over the world a week after a white supremacist killed 50 Muslims at two mosques in the southern city of Christchurch. In a Facebook post, accompanying a picture of the Burj Khalifa, Shaikh Mohammed said: New Zealand today fell silent in honor of the mosque attacks martyrs. Thank you PM Jacinda Ardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world. Cyprus Tourism has active plans in place to attract more tourists from the Kingdom in the coming years, according to the countrys deputy tourism minister. Speaking to Tribune, Savvas Perdios said tourism can play an important role in boosting the ties between the two countries, together with business and trade. The Cyprus Deputy Ministers statement follows talks between foreign ministers of both countries to adopt a mutual approach on a number of regional and international issues apart from strengthening co-operation in many areas. As of now, Bahrains contribution to Cyprus tourist arrivals is relatively low, with 2,200 tourist arrivals in 2018 and 2,700 in 2017. But there are good prospects to further develop the Bahrain arrivals. Gulf Air connects the two countries for over 30 years offering very good connectivity all year round since Bahrain is also a hub for Gulf visitors traveling to Cyprus as well as from travelers beyond. As a result, many more tourists from the region visit Cyprus via Bahrain, even from Dubai and Abu Dhabi due to the competitive pricing, he added. When asked about the challenges faced by the countrys tourism sector, Mr. Perdios said: Tourism industry is a dynamic sector, full of challenges and we have been facing these challenges successfully for many years, reaching the historic record in tourist arrivals in 2018. We believe that Cyprus has some unique competitive advantages to overcome the tough competition from neighboring countries such as high quality of services, hospitality of people, proximity/small island/,many experiences, safe destination, friendly to visitors from the Gulf, authentic experiences, both beautiful sandy beaches and mountain resorts, agro-tourism. Cyprus with its 11,000 years of history is an open-air museum with the influences of Greek, Roman, Venetians, Franks, Ottomans and the British civilization sites all over the island. The Permanent Representative of the Kingdom to the United Nations in New York, Ambassador Jamal Faris Al Rowaei, participated in the Second High-level United Nations Conference on South-South Cooperation, held in here from 20-22 March 2019. The conference was inaugurated by the President of the Republic of Argentina, Mauricio Macri, with the participation of the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres. The Permanent Representative delivered a speech in which he highlighted the Kingdom of Bahrains role in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 (SDGs), noting in this regard its participation in the international governmental negotiations, as part of the Open Working Group, on the SDGs. He also noted the development of a partnership with the office of the UN Resident Coordinator in the Kingdom regarding the agenda of the SDGs 2030, which resulted in the signing of the Strategic Partnership Framework between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Nations in October 2017. Works Affairs Undersecretary of the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning, Ahmed Al Khayyat, accompanied by MP Adel Al Asoomi, the Representative of the First constituency in the Capital Governorate, toured a number of Manama areas where they discussed a number of proposals and requests related to the constituency. Mr Al Khayyat praised the efforts of the members of the Council of Representatives and members of the municipal councils to follow up on the citizens requests and proposals regarding road and sewerage services, stressing the importance of communication and integration between the Ministry of works, the Council of Representatives and municipal councils to achieve the public interest. He pointed out that such tours are within the directives of the Minister of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning, Essam Khalaf, on the need to follow the requests of citizens and proposals of members of the municipal councils and the Council of Representatives. Mr. Al Asoomi presented a number of proposals including the development of Ahmed Al Fateh Highway in Block 307 in the part between north Road 715 and Zubara Road to the south by establishing sidewalks, side parking, and converting the traffic in one direction. This will contribute to increasing the number of parking spaces on both street sides. The proposals also include building parking lots on the empty land space on Road 717 in block 307, speeding up the development of road 2161 near the shops of Ajeeb Block 321, development of road 2115, solving the rainwater pooling problem at Block 321, development of roads surrounding Ahmed Al Omran School in Block 318, development of Road 1805 at Block 318, completion of the traffic regulation by turning the roads into one direction in the area near the former Population Registry building at block 308 in Hoora. At least 24 people have been killed and dozens are missing in parts of eastern Zimbabwe hit by the peripheral effects of tropical cyclone Idai which lashed neighbouring Mozambique, government said yesterday. Zimbabwes ministry of information announced on Twitter that so far the number of deaths is confirmed at 24 mainly from Chimanimani East, including two students, while at least 40 other people have been injured. Many houses have been damaged and bridges washed away in parts of the Manicaland province which borders Mozambique. A group of people who fled their homes were marooned on top of a mountain waiting to be rescued, but strong winds were hampering helicopter flights, the ministry said. Earlier a lawmaker told AFP that thousands of people have been affected, power cut off and major bridges flooded. The information we have so far is that over 100 people are missing and some of them may have died, Joshua Sacco, a member of parliament in Chimanimani district, said. At least 25 houses were swept away following a mudslide at Ngangu township in Chimanimani urban. There were people inside. They are part of the missing, he said. A grenade exploded early Friday outside the Russian consulate in Athens without hurting anyone, police said, an attack typical of domestic far-left groups. The area in the Athens suburb of Halandri was rapidly cordoned off and bomb specialists were dispatched, a police source said. Police said the grenade had exploded but caused no injuries as the consulate was closed at the time. The attack occurred at around 0200 GMT. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. The Greek foreign ministry unequivocally condemned the attack, which it said had caused some damage outside the building. It added that Greek authorities were taking all necessary steps to investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. It is believed that the grenade was lobbed by one or two persons on a motorbike. Police were probing possible links to a burnt motorbike found later in central Athens. The move is typical of domestic far-left outfits, who regularly carry out acts of violence against diplomatic missions in Greece. In December, a grenade exploded outside Skai, one of Greeces main media groups. A similar attack occurred in 2016 when a grenade was thrown outside the French embassy, injuring a police guard. The hit was claimed by a group calling itself the Organisation of Revolutionary Autodefence. British Prime Minister Theresa May huddled with her ministers yesterday as she plotted a renewed bid to convince MPs to back her EU divorce deal after securing a delay to Brexit from European leaders in Brussels. The premier faces daunting odds to persuade British lawmakers to support a plan they have already overwhelmingly rejected twice by a new April 12 deadline agreed with the European Union. If May succeeds, Britain -- which was staring at a cliffedge deadline of March 29 for leaving the EU -- will depart on May 22 under the terms of a withdrawal agreement struck with the EU last year. But if MPs defeat the accord again next week Brexit will go ahead on April 12, unless London decides to request another extension. A further extension would require Britain to take part in elections for the European Parliament in May despite having voted three years ago to leave the bloc. Until April 12, anything is possible, EU Council President Donald Tusk told reporters on Friday at the close of the EU summit in Brussels. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the blocs leaders would need another summit with May to discuss how to proceed if MPs reject the agreement again. I will make every effort to ensure that we are able to leave with a deal and move our country forward, May said on Thursday. The pound rose on news of the delay but is likely to remain volatile amid uncertainty over what path Britain will now take. Short periods of time Tusk said four options were possible: a deal, a long extension if the UK decided to rethink its strategy, a no-deal exit or revoking Article 50 -- the formal procedure for member states to leave the EU. He said April 12 is now a key date -- because after that Britain could no longer register candidates for the European Parliament elections. If it has not decided to do so by then, the option of a long extension will automatically become impossible, Tusk said. The British government declined Friday to set a date for a third parliamentary vote on the divorce deal but said it hoped it would happen next week. She faces an immediate hurdle in the form of parliamentary speaker John Bercow. He has said the agreement being voted on has to be on different terms from the ones MPs have already rejected. There was also heightened speculation that May is increasingly open to a series of so-called indicative votes that could show what option parliament prefers. In the event of the House (of Commons) voting down the meaningful vote, it would not be unreasonable to have subsequent votes to find out what the House actually supported, junior Brexit minister Kwasi Kwarteng told MPs. HARTFORD The suburbs of central Connecticut are now the hot spot for car thefts, while authorities in nearly every major city are seeing fewer vehicles stolen, according to a preliminary report released Thursday to the Juvenile Justice Policy and Oversight Committee. Committee members including Rep. Toni Walker, D-New Haven, called for an examination of car thefts and juvenile car theft arrests a few weeks ago after a lengthy public hearing on HB 7332, which would allow courts to automatically transfer juveniles charged with committing a car theft to adult court based on their criminal history. The issue has pitted juvenile justice advocates against police, who say their towns are being whacked with an increasing wave of car thefts that they believe have escalated since the state raised the age for youth to be classified as juveniles to 17 in 2012. Since 2012, suburbs have been increasingly plagued with car thefts, especially unlocked vehicles with key fobs left inside the car and there have been a number of recent car thefts in the greater Danbury area. In fact, vehicle thefts drove an increase in Danbury crime last year. In the first 11 months of 2018, such incidents were up 59 percent over the year before, according to a monthly crime statistics report provided by the police department. Reports of motor vehicle thefts can occasionally be found in the Danbury Police Departments daily activity logs. Just last month, a driver led state police on a brief pursuit in a 2014 Mercedes Benz that was stolen from the Danbury Fair Mall area. After seeing a decline in stolen cars in 2018, Ridgefield police had to remind residents to lock their vehicle and remove the keys after a vehicle was stolen from a driveway at the Casagmo condominiums complex during the overnight hours this past February. The Danbury area does see its fair share of car thefts, but vehicle burglaries are also an issue. This past January, New Milford police issued a warning about vehicle burglaries after several unlocked vehicles were entered and items stolen in the overnight, early morning hours one weekend. In Redding, police also investigated at least two reports of items stolen from vehicles in January. Fatal cart thefts There have been several highly publicized deaths connected to teens in stolen cars recently, including that of 15-year-old Jayson Negron, who was shot by Bridgeport officer in 2017 as he tried to flee. A Hartford woman also died after being run over by a Hartford teen in a stolen car. A Hartford woman also died after being run over by a Hartford teen in a stolen car. The findings of the report were released less than 36 hours after a 17-year-old from Hartford died after the stolen Mercedes he was in crashed in Durham early Wednesday. The car was chased minutes before by officers in Madison where the vehicle was stolen, state police said. It is unclear who was driving the car. Car theft decreased in Bridgeport, Hartford, New Britain, and New Haven by more than 38 percent from 2008 to 2017, according to the report drafted by Ken Barone, project manager at the Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy at Central Connecticut State University. At the same time, car thefts are up by close to 21 percent in the states suburbs with populations up to 25,000. The highest concentration of car thefts has moved from the New Haven area to the Interstate 91 and 84 corridors in the central Connecticut suburbs, Barone said. Weve literally seen the problem traveling north over the past seven or eight years, Barone said. The only outlier was the city of Waterbury, which saw a 91 percent increase in car thefts from 2008 to 2017. Waterbury had the fewest number of car thefts out of any large city in Connecticut 10 years ago, Barone said. Teens and stolen cars Overall car thefts in the state of Connecticut are down from more than 12,000 in the 1990s to 7,310 in 2017, Barone said. But the state has seen an uptick since 2014, when the number bottomed out at 6,100. Barone cautioned that more data would be needed before any conclusions could be drawn. Car theft in general has about a 14-percent solvability rate, so the age of who committed the crimes is hard to nail down. He contends that the age range of those charged with car theft hasnt fluctuated much since 2008, when 46 percent of those arrested were under 19, compared to 49 percent in 2017. About 55 percent of the people arrested for car theft in Glastonbury are under the age of 18, said Glastonbury Police Chief Marshall Porter, who is on the committee. We have a small group of juveniles committing 90 percent of the crimes. Criminal activity connected to car thefts is also escalating, he said. Theyve gone from joy riding to using the cars to commit more serious crimes, Porter said. But advocates of juvenile justice reform contend that more data needs to be gathered before any conclusions can be drawn. I think fear never makes good legislation, Sen. Gary Winfield, D-New Haven, said. I know the context of people being run over by cars, but when the public hears those things they say you better do something. BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) A 40-year-old Niagara Falls woman has pleaded guilty to fraud for her role in a debt collection scheme based in western New York that brought in more than $3 million through illegal tactics. The U.S. attorney's office in Buffalo says Shauniqua Rodriguez faces up to 20 years in prison when she's sentenced on June 28. Rodriguez was charged along with five other defendants. Four have been convicted including ringleader Joseph Ciffa, who's awaiting sentencing. Rodriguez worked for a debt collection agency that operated under various names. She called consumers throughout the United States and made threats to induce them to pay debts, including debts that had already been satisfied. Prosecutors say the scheme brought in more than $3 million between 2015 and 2016. Brian Wang is a Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with 1 million readers per month. His blog Nextbigfuture.com is ranked #1 Science News Blog. It covers many disruptive technology and trends including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology. Known for identifying cutting edge technologies, he is currently a Co-Founder of a startup and fundraiser for high potential early-stage companies. He is the Head of Research for Allocations for deep technology investments and an Angel Investor at Space Angels. A frequent speaker at corporations, he has been a TEDx speaker, a Singularity University speaker and guest at numerous interviews for radio and podcasts. He is open to public speaking and advising engagements. Dear Abby: Im a high school junior, and my schools prom is coming up. I dont have a date. I completely understand that I dont need a date for prom to have fun. However, within my group of friends, we are organizing who will sit at our 18-person table, and Im the only dateless person at our table, which means Im the odd one out (eight couples plus me for a total of 17 seats filled). I know I should try to have fun even if Im the only one by myself, but the situation makes me feel so alone. I asked two different guys if they wanted to go with me: One ended up going with a different girl and will be sitting at our table. The other didnt want to go with me. How should I handle this situation and be able to have fun at prom, even though Ill be sticking out as the only person in our entire group who couldnt manage to find someone to go with even as a friend? Anonymous in Pennsylvania Dear Anonymous: I understand why you would feel alone under these circumstances, but the truth is you wont be alone. You will be attending the prom with 16 friends. If you concentrate on that, you can have a good time hearing music you enjoy, surrounded by friends who are supportive and dancing if you wish to. Dear Abby: My partner is addicted to the phone. One day last week she spent seven hours talking to friends. There is one friend in particular she spends upward of two hours a day talking to. On weekends they often talk three times in one day. This happens hour after hour, and her friend loves to call at 6 in the evening, meaning we often dont eat until well after 7. Last week I clocked her at 16 hours on the phone with just this one woman. Do I have a problem here? Or does she? Calling Out in Florida Dear Calling: You both have a problem. Hers is her addiction to her phone. Yours is the inability to convey to her that what shes doing deprives you of sharing dinners together on a regular schedule, and robs you of time that could be spent communicating with each other. And that presents a danger to your relationship. Dear Abby: I am a 27-year-old married man with two kids. They are 4 and 1 years old. I love my little family, and there has been a lot of newness to my life over the past few years. My issue is that Im starting to feel like Im losing my identity. I no longer go out with friends because I feel guilty leaving my wife home alone with the kids. I also work a lot, so many nights I come home late and just crash. I have thought about taking a weekend trip alone to sort of reconnect with myself and get some things done, but would that be selfish? Identity Loss Dear Identity Loss: It wouldnt be selfish if you gave your wife the opportunity to take a similar sanity break when she feels the need. Or better yet, find a trusted babysitter and the two of you go together. CHESHIRE A town man was sentenced to more than two years in prison Friday after pleading guilty to charges issued after he was accused of selling heroin to a Southington woman who overdosed and died, according to a release from the U.S. Attorney for Connecticuts office. Thomas J. Halleran, 37, will serve 30 months in jail, then be under supervised release for six years, according to the release. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 23) The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has confirmed mercury contamination in at least four areas in the country, including bodies of water and mining sites. The affected areas include the abandoned Palawan Quicksilver Mines in Puerto Princesa City, which is being rehabilitated; the Mambulao Bay in Camarines Norte; the Mabuhay Vinyl Corp. in Lanao del Norte; and the Lumanggang Creek in Compostela Valley. According to the Minamata Initial Assessment (MIA) report conducted by the DENR's Environment and Management Bureau, the extraction and use of energy sources contributed to the rise in mercury levels. "This is followed by the production of primary or virgin metal, which includes mining and gold processing, and the production of other minerals and materials with mercury impurities," the DENR said in a press release Saturday, outlining the key findings of the report. Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu hopes the MIA report would "serve as a kickoff point for our campaign for a mercury-free lifestyle for a safer environment," as the government pushes for the ratification of the Minamata Convention. The global treaty aims to phase out mercury, a highly toxic substance considered by the World Health Organization (WHO) as among the top 10 chemicals of major public health concern. The Philippines was among the 128 states that signed the convention in 2013, but Congress has yet to ratify it. The WHO said mercury exposure can pose harm to one's nervous, digestive and immune systems, lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes. It may also lead to death due to kidney failure and other complications. The DENR also identified bodies of water and mining sites all over the country with suspected mercury contamination. It cited the Meycauayan River in Bulacan, Manila Bay, mining sites and gold processing sites in Camarines Norte and Masbate, landfills in Barangay Inayawan in Cebu City, Consolacion town in Cebu province, Naboc River in Davao, and T'boli town in South Cotabato. Other areas tagged in the report are Agusan del Sur, the decommissioned Bulawan Mine of Philex Mining Corp. and the towns of Sipalay and Hinobaan in Negros Occidental, Sitio Dalicno in Itogon, Benguet, and Licuan-Baay town in Abra. NEW HAVEN Quentin Staggers, a New Haven man charged in the wake of the series of synthetic cannabinoid-induced episodes that sent dozens to the hospital from the New Haven Town Green in August 2018, was sentenced to time served, four-plus months of house arrest and three years probation Friday, according to the New Haven Independent. Staggers pleaded guilty to one count of possessing K2 with intent to sell in October 2018. According to the Independent, he admitted Friday to selling the drug to an individual in Branford who overdosed, knocking themselves unconscious. Ahead of Fridays sentencing, both prosecutors and defense attorneys submitted sentencing memorandums, sharing their respective arguments to Judge Janet C. Hall about the sentence she should impose in U.S. District Court. There is no evidence that Mr. Staggers sold K2 on the New Haven Green the August 15-16, 2018 time period, First Assistant Federal Defender Kelly Barrett noted in her sentencing memorandum. She argued Hall should impose a sentence of time served. Rather, New Haven police found bags containing K2 residue in the trash from his apartment building; Staggers had been selling small amounts of the drug to support his own addiction to it, Barrett said. Staggers takes responsibility for selling K2 and has used his arrest as an opportunity to change his life, Barrett said. Since his arrest, he has completed two inpatient substance abuse programs, engaged in therapy, remained sober, and complied with all conditions of pre-trial release, Barrett said. In the sentencing memorandum, Barrett traced Staggers life history, including the trauma that came with his childhood in the Ashmun Street projects during the 1980s, his battle to overcome an addiction to crack cocaine, the after-effects of being shot and his work as an advocate for the homeless population in New Haven. She said the trauma, neglect and violence he dealt with provided context for his offense. Mr. Staggerss story is one of a man whose early experience with poverty, abuse, neglect, and exposure to drugs, violence and crime left a lasting imprint on both mind and body that defined the course of his life. For many years, those forces colluded and resulted in addiction, homelessness and continual interaction with the criminal justice system, said Barrett in the memorandum, interspersing quotes from Staggers. Following his federal arrest, however, Mr. Staggers has come to terms with the effects of early traumas on his life and opened himself up to treatment and recovery... Another person might have become embittered or despondent by their arrest; Mr. Staggers is grateful for the justice systems intervention, thanking the Court for giving me the opportunity to get well and find myself. Prosecutors John C. Durham III and Patrick Caruso of the U.S. Attorneys Office for Connecticut argued that Staggers should serve a year in prison in their sentencing memorandum. In their sentencing memorandum, the prosecutors noted Staggers has been incarcerated for approximately 10 years of his life, committing repeated crimes, including assault and robbery. Staggers had sold K2 on the New Haven green in the past, prosecutors said. The individual who overdosed on K2 in Branford told officials with the Drug Enforcement Agency they believed Staggers might have been a source of the supply for the rash of suspected K2 overdoses on the Green, but declined to testify to this in court, according to the memorandum. The defendants offense conduct, and his relevant conduct, are serious. As Staggers himself admitted in connection with his 2016 robbery arrest, everyone knew he was selling K2 on the New Haven Green. And, based upon records from the Department of Correction, Staggers appears to have committed the instant offense while still serving a two-year conditional discharge, Durham and Caruso said.. The sentence imposed, therefore, should reflect the seriousness of the defendants conduct. Hall noted that Staggers had admitted to selling drugs that are illegal and dangerous and impacted our community, according to the Independent, even if he was not connected to the August 2018 episode, and also noted the positive steps he had taken since his arrest. Addiction is a very difficult thing to combat, but you have uncharacteristically maybe because of the intensive in-patient that you had not slipped. But you havent been out very long either, Hall said, according to the Independent. I wish you all the best, Mr. Staggers. william.lambert@hearstmediact.com I am a private person. I cannot adequately explain how much I cherish my privacy and guard it jealousy. While many people have woven Facebook into the fabric of their lives, I avoid it like the plague. It took one time for my Facebook photo to appear on another website I was visiting with a message to share the site with family and friends for me to uninstall the app. It gave me the creeps to think some uninvited invisible force was looking over my shoulder and following me around pretending to be my best friend and guide. Other than the Twitter account associated with my work, the all-seeing eyes of social media does not exist in my life. I am just not one of those people who shares personal information indiscriminately. But I also am a smoker. And I am finding my right to privacy is up against big businesses like Walgreens, Stop & Shop and Rite Aid that take the personal information of smokers and scan it into their systems under the guise of age verification. I knew Stop & Shop and Rite Aid did this and I do my best never to buy cigarettes there. And before all the health experts and concerned parents chime in, save it. I know smoking is a nasty habit but this is not a column about the dangers of cigarette smoking, but the right to buy a legal product without being tracked just as it is with thousands of people who buy alcohol at liquor stores throughout the state. I went into Walgreens recently to buy cigarettes and I was asked for identification so my age could be verified. Lets stop a minute so I can clarify something: For those who have not yet met me, my real picture accompanies this column and it was taken last year. Since then, the clock did not turn back. I did not stumble upon the fountain of youth. I didnt rub some magical, decades-erasing cream on my face, and no amount of Botox or number of facelifts will get me even close to looking 21 again. But I begrudgingly handed the sales associate my drivers license. Before I realized what she was doing and could stop her, she scanned the information into Walgreens system. And I admit, it ticked me off. I would have preferred to buy my cigarettes elsewhere rather than have my personal data scanned into a system. I first noticed this age verification happening at Rite Aid about three years ago. I also found out during the course of researching this column that Walgreens owns many of the Rite Aids and Duane Reade drugstores, too. Phil Caruso, a spokesman with Walgreens Media Relations, said in an email We require age verification from anyone purchasing tobacco products, regardless of age, in all our stores. In effort to ensure compliance with the age restrictions associated with these products, we retain the date of birth information on the ID by scanning it or can manually enter the date of birth information on the card, he said. No other information is retained in the scanning process and it is not used for any other purpose. I dont believe a word of it. Is Walgreens really trying to convince me and its customers that they have tiny little technical fingers in its system that erased my name, address and drivers license number but just retained my birth date after my license has been scanned? I am not that gullible and it is insulting to think Walgreens believes its customers are that stupid. If Walgreens is not tracking smokers and using the information, then why enter and retain birth date information? What good is useless information clogging up data space after a purchase has been made if it is just for verification and not to track smokers? And since when has a company any company been privy to a consumers personal information and not used it in some way to benefit itself? I cant imagine Walgreens went through the expense of installing the age-verification equipment throughout thousands of locations if it was not reaping the rewards. Walgreens isnt alone. Stop & Shop has the same policy and one swipe of my Stop & Shop card will show them how dramatically I have reduced the amount of money I spend there. I will not support any company I believe is tracking me. We have always been concerned about big brother watching our every move. We used to think it would just be the government. Little did we know that big brother would turn out to be the businesses you have shopped at throughout the years. I contacted the attorney generals office about my concerns. This is the only product on the market including the sale of alcohol that demands adults show ID and have their information put into a computer. Data privacy and protection is a serious concern for the Attorney General and the office is actively involved in investigations into misuse of consumer data and privacy violations, according to an emailed response. The Office of the Attorney General strongly supports enhanced safeguards for personal privacy. But the state allows sellers of alcoholic liquor or tobacco products to use a transaction scan device to check the validity of a drivers license or identity card as a condition of purchasing such alcoholic liquor or tobacco products. Drivers license numbers are considered personal information under Connecticuts data safeguarding statute, according to the attorney generals office. The statute requires that any person in possession of personal information of another person safeguard such data, computer files and documents containing such information from misuse by third parties. The data must be destroyed, erased or made unreadable prior to disposal. I dont want to go off the deep end here, but is the attorney general trying to convince me that businesses abide by this statute by their own volition? Because in my experience, businesses will do what they want with consumers personal information and, when caught violating the rules, get a slap on the wrist, pay a paltry fine and admit no wrong-doing. So maybe it is the state that is being hoodwinked. U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., did not respond for a comment. But Blumenthal and other senators sent Walgreens a letter in February urging them to remove tobacco products from its shelves. Since 2010, 22 percent of Walgreens stores have been caught selling cigarettes to minors, making them the largest violators of underage sales of cigarettes to minors in the nation. But I am clearly not underage. Walgreens website states its purpose is to champion the health and well-being of every community in America. Are you not gagging on the hypocrisy? There isnt a health expert anywhere in the world who wont say cigarettes are poison and unhealthy. Walgreens a health store and pharmacy sells that poison with undisguised capitalism. It deliberately keeps its cigarette prices well below the competition to drive smokers to its stores and makes sure it is the last merchandise its customers see before leaving. There is nothing healthy about that. No wonder Walgreens is no longer located on the corner of Happy and Health but on the corner of Cash and Cow. Smokers? Being tracked is giving me the creeps. James Walker is the New Haven Registers senior editor and a statewide columnist for Hearst Connecticut newspapers. He can be reached at 203-680-9389 or james.walker@hearstmediact.com. @thelieonroars The Ramapough Lenape Native Americans got a little help from the feds with their ongoing lawsuit against Mahwah Township -- and they and another tribe gained legal recognition back from the state. But dont expect any casinos on tribe-owned land. The state decided in 2012 that it would no longer recognize three New Jersey tribes: the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape, Ramapough Lenape tribe and Powhatan-Renape nations. The Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape sued the state saying its decision was motivated by racial stereotypes and an irrational fear that the tribes would try to build casinos. The state settled with the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape in November and promised to give the other two tribes back their recognition, as well. That happened this week when State Attorney General Gurbir Grewal announced that the Ramapough and Powhatan-Renape were granted recognition dating back to 1980. The recognition means that they can sell traditional arts and crafts labeled as American Indian-made, and it entitles members to grants, scholarships and other services through the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, U.S. Small Business Administration, the U.S. Dept. of Housing & Urban Development and the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990. The settlement also very clearly denounces casinos. Both tribes specifically disclaim any interest in casino gaming rights under the settlement, and the parties agree that official state recognition does not provide the tribes with federal casino gaming rights, the announcement said. In an unrelated court case, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Jersey filed a Statement of Interest in a religious land use case that the Ramapoughs filed against the Township of Mahwah and the Ramapo Hunt & Polo Club, an association of homeowners whose million-dollar digs surround a Ramapough-owned prayer ground. The Ramapoughs have been fighting with the town and the homeowners over use of the land, known as Split Rock Sweetwater Prayer Camp The town told the tribe it must stop using the 13-acre site for religious services and imposed $12,500 per day fines for violating the prohibition. The Ramapoughs had wracked up $1.45 million in fines by Sept. 2018. The United States, in its Statement of Interest, argued that the township has imposed a substantial burden on the Rampoughs religious exercise without adequate justification, and has not treated its use of the land equally with nonreligious uses of land. The statement of Interest further argues that those claims, which allege that the townships conduct has significantly chilled Ramapoughs use of the land for religious purposes, are ripe for consideration by the court. Mahwah Mayor John Roth declined to comment on the filing. Allison Pries may be reached at apries@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter@AllisonPries. 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. The Eagles running back need has become a polarizing topic among draft pundits. While some acknowledge that the position needs a major upgrade, others think the team will keep a steady course and just add another piece to its running back rotation. NFL.coms Lance Zierlein is not part of that second group. Zierlein believes the Eagles should pounce on Alabama running back Josh Jacobs in the first round. He has the team selecting Jacobs with the 25th overall pick in his second mock draft of the offseason. Here is Zierleins logic: The Eagles have been taking a piecemeal approach at the running back position for a few years now, but Jacobs would give them a three-down back with limited tread off the tires and a legitimate talent as a pass-catcher. The pick makes sense, as the Eagles have taken care of a handful of major needs in free agency. While the team values defensive tackle, defensive end and wide receiver over the running back position, those spots were addressed in free agency with the arrivals of Malik Jackson, Vinny Curry and DeSean Jackson. The Eagles have yet to sign a veteran running back. As of now, its easy to presume that the Eagles will handle their running back need in the draft. That move could be made as early as the first round. The Eagles havent selected a running back in the first round since 1986. The team hasnt selected a running back prior to the fourth round since 2009. The state office building on Summit Avenue in Jersey Citys Journal Square was evacuated and nearby roads were closed when a suspicious backpack was found at the building. The package, a backpack, was reported at approximately 4 p.m. and the building, which houses a Motor Vehicle Commission office and other state offices, was quickly evacuated, witnesses said. Jersey City police, with its Emergency Services Unit, and firefighters responded to the building on Summit Avenue near Sip Avenue, across the street from the Jersey City Municipal Court. The closure of roads in the area created rush hour gridlock throughout the Journal Square neighborhood before the package was deemed not to be a threat at approximately 5:20 p.m. Jersey City police did not immediately respond for more details on the incident. EDITORS NOTE: Entrepreneurs everywhere are eyeing the billion-dollar legal weed industry, an economic opportunity unrivaled in modern N.J. history. NJ Cannabis Insider features exclusive and premium weekly content geared toward those interested in the marijuana industry. View a sample issue. Harvested cannabis plants dry for a couple weeks in the drying room as Master Grower Ricardo Luis looks at them. A look at the Greenleaf Compassion Center, a medical cannabis dispensary. Friday March 9, 2018. Montclair, NJ, USA NJCIAristide Economopoulos for NJ Ad The fight to legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 and over in New Jersey has drowned out the growing chorus of support to make medicinal cannabis more accessible to a fast-growing pool of patients in the state. Democratic leaders in the state Senate have insisted the separate recreational weed bill and medical expansion bill be voted on together in order to corral more support for legalization. Heres what you need to know about the bill to expand medical marijuana (A10), which is scheduled for final votes in both the state Senate and Assembly on Monday: 1. Patients may buy more cannabis every month. Physicians would be able to recommend patients 2.5 ounces a month, up from the current 2 ounces, and 3 ounces six months later. People in hospice care or diagnosed with a terminally disease would have no purchasing limits. 2. Fewer trips to the doctor. Patients would only need to certify they qualify for the program once a year, instead of every 90 days under the current law. Doctors visits are not covered by insurance. 3. A stab at price controls. Dispensaries must post prices that cannot be changed more than once a month. New Jersey has the most expensive medical cannabis in the country as much as $500 an ounce with sales tax. The price list is an attempt to bring some relief. 4. More places to buy it. A newly created Cannabis Regulatory Commission which will control both the medicinal program and the anticipated recreational industry would solicit applicants for six new grow and retail operations within 90 days. There are six dispensaries serving 42,000 patients. 5. Edibles for everyone. A vestige of the Christie administration, edible products can only be solid to minors. That would change. 6. No tax on medicine. The bill phases out the 6.625 percent sales tax on medical marijuana over five years. This has been a sore spot for patients who point out no other medicine is taxed. 7. Job protections. Patients would receive some protection from losing their jobs, depending on the occupation. 8. Welcome, visitors. Out-of-state medicinal marijuana patients from the 32 states where it is also legal to buy and consume cannabis could partake in New Jersey. 9. More prescribers. Advance practice nurses and nurse practitioners who have the power to write prescriptions will also have the authority to recommend patients to the program. 10. Protecting parents. Patients wont lose visitation or custody of their children because they are registered in the program. If the legalization bill stalls, sources say Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, would allow a massive expansion of the number of dispensaries to meet the growing demand of patients. Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook EDITORS NOTE: On April 3, NJ Cannabis Insider will host an all-day live event, featuring industry leaders and the key voices who will shape the industry. Tickets are limited. More information. The state Legislature is scheduled to decide on Monday whether to legalize recreational marijuana in New Jersey, but if the measure fails, it will likely be because Gov. Phil Murphy failed to account for the opposition from older black ministers and lawmakers of color. On Thursday, the Democratic governor rallied several black ministers to his side, arguing that if New Jersey wanted to be on the right side of history, it would legalize cannabis for adult recreational use. But interviews with many black lawmakers and ministers show support for such a move has much to do with how old, or rather how young, they are, and what history they experienced. Though age isnt the sole decider the governor himself is 61 support does seem to break along those lines. A lot of this is generational, said the Rev. Charles Franklin Boyer, the pastor of the Bethel AME church in Woodbury. Many of us who are part of Gen X or millennials have been the victims of the tough-on-crime (drug) laws. We have felt the brunt of mass incarceration, and youll be hard pressed to find someone from my generation whos against legalization." Equally true is that its difficult to find black legislators or black religious leaders who both support legalization and are over the age of 60. The Bible says theres folly in youth, said Bishop Jethro C. James Jr., 68, senior pastor of Paradise Baptist Church in Newark. And most of us (in the clergy) are older. You cant get wisdom when youre 25. When I was 25, I thought my dad was the dumbest guy on earth. When I was 50, I thought he was the smartest guy in the world. James, a senior adviser for NJ RAMP, an anti-legalization lobbying group, said he still vigorously opposes recreational marijuana even after meeting with the governor Friday morning. The long view of history is what the Rev. Lesly Devereaux, 60, pastor of Trinity AME Church in Long Branch, says shes taking when it comes to marijuana. So many young men are incarcerated and have records and may never be able to recover from because of marijuana, and thats concerning, Devereaux said. But think about Prohibition. After they ended it, they flood the urban areas with liquor stores. Not a school. Not place to learn a trade. How does that help people of color? I would say we need to pull back. Devereaux, 60, said she favors decriminalization instead of legalization, and is suspicious of why expungement of cannabis crimes needs to be tied to legalizing recreational weed, rather than initiated on its own. (Expungement is the term for clearing a conviction from someones record.) State Sen. Shirley Turner, D-Mercer, 77 and a member of the Black Legislative Caucus, told NJ Cannabis Insider last month that she is unalterably opposed to recreational marijuana. "I think the governor is well intentioned, and I think that he is trying to keep his campaign promises, Turner said. But I dont know if hes really listened to the people who are minorities the black and brown people as to what the problems are and what we need to eradicate those conditions. NJ is set to vote on a marijuana legalization bill that has strong measures to reverse the damage of the War on Drugs. I hope this bill passes & NJ can lead the nation on this. Marijuana legalization & social justice *must* go hand in hand. We cant have one without the other. Sen. Cory Booker (@SenBooker) March 22, 2019 Leading the charge against legalization is state Sen. Ron Rice, D-Essex, who is 73. He said on Friday that he was unsure about how the legislative black caucus, a group of 18 African American state legislators, would vote on legalizing but noted that it must be close, because the governor had enlisted the aid of a celebrity to press some of the holdouts. They even have Whoopi Goldberg calling people now, calling the ladies (of the caucus), Rice said. All these phone calls, over and over again. Legislators are getting three and four calls from the governor, from Whoopi. He doesnt understand the Big N, the Big O. Theres a lot of pressure being put on folk. Some of them are getting a little fed up." Notably still undecided are black caucus members like state Sen. Nia Gill, D-Essex, 71, and state Sen. Sandra Cunningham, D-Hudson, 68, the latter being the prime sponsor of a cannabis crimes expungement bill under considerations in concert with the legalization bill. Neither Gill nor Cunningham could be reached on Friday afternoon. I suppose some (economic) opportunity is better than no opportunity, but I want to hear how legalization benefits communities that need it most," Cunningham told NJ Cannabis Insider last month. In the lower house, state Assemblywoman Cleopatra Tucker, D-Essex, 75, is also undecided. Claude Brodesser-Akner may be reached at cbrodesser@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ClaudeBrodesser. 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. EDITORS NOTE: Entrepreneurs everywhere are eyeing the billion-dollar legal weed industry, an economic opportunity unrivaled in modern N.J. history. NJ Cannabis Insider features exclusive and premium weekly content geared toward those interested in the marijuana industry. View a sample issue. The mad scramble to legalize marijuana in New Jersey is so tight, even Whoopi Goldberg got into the act Friday. The Oscar-winning actress and comedian called a handful of state lawmakers as Gov. Phil Murphy and his fellow Democratic leaders fight to wrangle enough votes for the state Legislature to pass a bill Monday that would legalize recreational pot here, NJ Advance Media has learned. As of Friday afternoon, the leaders were only a few maybe as few as two votes short of the number they need for the measure to pass the state Senate, four sources with knowledge of the situation said. But convincing the final few lawmakers to secure the 21 votes required to pass the bill in the Legislatures upper house may be tough and could require flipping some who are against it, according the sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private conversations. Goldberg, a West Orange resident who has ties to the marijuana industry, on Friday called a handful of women lawmakers who are either on the fence or leaning against the bill, three sources told NJ Advance Media. She also wrote an op-ed about the matter that was published Friday in USA Today and other Gannett news outlets. Goldberg founded a company in 2016 that manufacturers edibles and skin care products made from cannabis called Whoopi & Maya. But her involvement with cannabis goes back to her teenage years, when she discovered the drug relieved her debilitating menstrual cramps, she wrote in the op-ed. As I have grown older, and questionably wiser, I have maintained a healthy relationship with marijuana," Goldberg wrote. I now use marijuana, through a vape pen, to relieve headaches from glaucoma. For countless adults across New Jersey, myself included, marijuana has never been about getting high just for the sake of it," she continued. And, thats something that lawmakers on Monday need to remember. The unhinged and dire doomsday prophecies of some simply have not come to fruition elsewhere, nor will they in New Jersey. Goldberg did not immediately return a message from NJ Advance Media seeking comment Friday. State Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle, D-Bergen, confirmed that Goldberg called her Friday morning and made a respectful and persuasive case to support the legalization bill during their 45-minute conversation. But Huttle remains in the no column. She feels this is a great piece of legislation, and we can be a leader for the rest of the country, Huttle said. She was persuasive in her facts, but I also have unanswered questions that deal with behavioral health issues. Respected organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the American Academy of Pediatrics do not support marijuana legalization, Huttle noted. I am not concerned about adult cannabis," she said. Its opening up the door to kids under 21, giving that credibility and releasing the stigma. Thats my main concern. Huttle said the only way she could be persuaded to vote yes is if her constituents in Bergen County overwhelmingly urged her to do so. Right now, the calls and emails are running 50-50 yes and no, she said. Goldberg isnt the only notable name to come out in favor of the legal pot push in New Jersey. U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, the New Jersey Democrat who is running for president, also tweeted his support Friday. NJ is set to vote on a marijuana legalization bill that has strong measures to reverse the damage of the War on Drugs. I hope this bill passes & NJ can lead the nation on this. Marijuana legalization & social justice *must* go hand in hand. We cant have one without the other. Sen. Cory Booker (@SenBooker) March 22, 2019 Meanwhile, New Jerseys two black members of the U.S. House of Representatives, Donald Payne Jr., D-10th Dist., and Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-12th Dist., both endorsed the measure this week. The Rev. Al Sharpton also took to Twitter this week to lobby for the bill: Received a briefing from @GovMurphy on the marijuana legalization bill in NJ. Very impressed by the strong social justice components - expedited expungement, virtual expungement, and M/WBE prioritization. It's time to get this passed NJ!!! Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) March 19, 2019 And the Democratic mayors of New Jerseys two largest cities Newarks Ras Baraka and Jersey Citys Steve Fulop endorsed the proposal Friday. The support from major black figures is notable because a number of African-American state lawmakers are against the bill, saying it will negatively affect communities of color in New Jersey. Supporters say it will help improve social justice in the state because black people are three times more likely to be arrested for marijuana offenses than whites. The bill would legalize, tax, and regulate marijuana for people 21 and older in New Jersey. It would need to be approved by both houses of the Democratically controlled Legislature the Senate and Assembly before Murphy, a major legal pot proponent, could sign it into law. As of Friday afternoon, a vote tracker conducted by NJ Advance Media shows there are at least eight members of the Senate who are planning to vote yes and 23 planning to vote no. If those no votes hold up, the measure would fail Monday. Still, sources caution that some of those lawmakers currently against the bill could change their mind. The vote tracker currently shows 14 Assembly members say they plan to vote yeas and 18 plan to vote no, with 48 members undecided. Weve made progress, but were not over the goal line Murphy said Friday at an unrelated news conference in Livingston. If leaders cannot muster enough votes by Monday, its likely the vote will be called off and another may not be scheduled until the end of the year. Murphy and top Democratic lawmakers are expected to continue contacting lawmakers throughout the weekend. Sources say they may not know the bills fate until Monday morning, just before the planned vote. Were not there yet, but were still fighting, one source said. NJ Advance Media staff writers Matt Arco, Payton Guion, Jonathan D. Salant, and Justin Zaremba contributed to this report. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Claude Brodesser-Akner may be reached at cbrodesser@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ClaudeBrodesser. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Are you interested in the N.J. cannabis industry? Subscribe here for exclusive insider information from NJ Cannabis Insider. For the last year, Cindy Gelormini had worn the same blue-green glass pendant as a palpable reminder of her son Robbies love of the water. You couldnt tell by looking at it, but the aquamarine hued pendant also contained tiny flecks of gray. Robbies ashes. She noticed it was missing as she undressed. She remembered getting out of the car earlier that day, tugging at her layers of winter clothes. Maybe that how it must have come undone? Gelormini dialed Target, her heart in her throat. A manager who offered to send a worker outside to look, but they found nothing. She called Home Depot. She got a Sorry lady. and not much more. Thats when I said, Ill never see it again. she said. That Gelormini did indeed find that pendant, broken and scattered and that the pendant could be restored to its former beauty is a remarkable New Jersey story of total strangers goodwill, a sisterhood of loss and of surprising assistance from within Facebook and inside suburban basements. Born in 1989, Gelorminis son, Robbie, was diagnosed with severe autism. While his body grew, he remained non-verbal, at the intellectual level of a toddler, she says. With all the problems this created, he also possessed the best qualities of young children: Impish and playful and utterly in love with splashing in the water. When he died of a seizure, at age 27, in November 2017, his mother saw a pendant that looked like ocean water in a catalog on the desk of her funeral director. She knew thats how she wanted to remember him. Cindy Gelormini's autistic son, Robbie, who died in 2017. Robbie, second from right, loved playing in water and so his mother chose a pendant that resembled the ocean to memorialize him. (Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com)Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Med Losing the pedant was another wrenching trauma for the New Providence resident who says she had already lost him three times before. When Robbie was first diagnosed with autism, I went through a week of mourning, she said. When you have a son, you immediately have dreams for them. You think, Oh, hes gonna play for the Yankees some day! You think you have one child, then all of sudden, thats gone. Its No; you have a child with special needs. It was almost sort of like a death. Robbie would grow to be man-sized, but intellectually he never grew, and he was incontinent and wildly unpredictable. Her days were timed to the minute around his care. When it ultimately became too much for her to handle, state health officials recommended he be placed in a residential group home under 24 hour care. Normally, when you have a child, you slowly learn to separate, she said. I didnt get that slow separation. I went from toddler to adult in one day: I woke up, and the house was quiet. It was like a death then, too. And then there was the third time, when Robbie actually died in November 2017, and she went to the hospital to see him one last time. I had to kiss him one more time, to say goodbye, or Id never forgive myself, she remembers. I saw his feet, and I just lost it again. They were just laying there, and ice cold." But Cindy Gelormini is also a practical woman. Having spent 18 years searching after Robbie, whod routinely escape from their snug New Providence home and take off running off to any number of neighbors swimming pools, she had to be. It was the only way to stay sane amidst the all too regular panicked searches for him. Within the next few hours that day, Gelormini posted to every Facebook group she cold think off. Westfield, Cranford, New Providenceeven the often nasty one in Berkeley Heights she jokingly calls Bickering Heights. Around midnight, depleted, she went to bed. Gelormini dreamed of Robbie. In her dream, she said, he was laughing at me." She got up at 8:30 am the next day to find that, overnight, her post had blown up. Hundreds of people had shared it, who in turn shared it with hundreds more. Facebook messages started to come in from places Gerolimini knew shed never even been with the pendant: Toms River. Long Island. Bud Lake. When Cindy Gelormini's autistic son died a year ago, she had his ashes in a pendant she wore around her neck. It was thought irretrievably lost, but then Facebook -- and the kindness of strangers and friends -- helped her pick up the pieces. Using a kiln provided by friends, it's been restored after having shattered into four pieces. Here, Cindy wears her reconstructed pendant. (Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com)Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Med Two hours later, Vincent Scrudato was on his way to Home Depot when a friend from work phoned to ask him what his plans were for the day. Home Depot? In Union? Really? The friend promptly texted him a photo of the missing pendant shed seen on Facebook. A car parked behind his Jeep obscured the pendants view, so Scrudato missed it on the way in. But while he was inside, the car parked behind him had left. On the way out, carrying a bag of caulk and some screws, Scrudato noticed something shiny behind his car. He knew what it was immediately; the pendant was laying on a white stripe of paint. It had shattered, but the chain was still clearly attached. "Im sorry to tell you it is broken in four pieces, but I want to get them back to you, Scrudato emailed that evening. He felt so bad that it was broken, Gelormini recalls But I said, I dont care; I just want Robbie back. The shattered pieces of Cindy Gelormini's pendant -- containing her son's ashes -- were re-kilned and restored by Nancy Mingo at the home of her friend, Donna Pelc. (Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com)Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Med Gerlomini makes her living staging homes before they go on-sale, so she did what she does when confronted with a hideous unfinished basement. What I do for a living is take ugly things, and make them look more beautiful, she said, And I try to do that with everything. The question was, how? The cremation company that made the pendant offered to try to melt it back together, but said shed have to mail it across the country, and "just the thought of his being cremated all over again made me nauseous. But then a friend from her church, Nancy Mingo, of Old Bridge, offered to attempt to fuse the glass shards back together using another glass-maker friends kiln. Loss of loved ones long before their time is, sadly, a sorority larger than youd think. It is a sorority that takes care of its own. And so on March 5th, three women gathered in the unfinished basement of Donna Pelc, who herself lost her husband to a drunk driver six months before Robbies death, and fired up what looked like the worlds hottest waffle iron. Cradling it like a robins egg, Mingo placed it in the orange kiln. There was a risk that it wouldnt fuse together, or that it would crack further. Lord, I ask that you help us recreate the work of your creation, said Mingo, quietly locking the kilns hatch into place. That night, they returned to Donnas house to see whether the kiln had made good on its promise. As the hatch was lifted, a single piece of brilliant blue green glass had replaced the four shards, though faint lines were still visible where the pendant had split apart. You can see the cracks, but I kind of like that, actually, Gerolmini said, as Mingo put the pendant back on its original chain. It represents my broken heart. With newly-whole pendant on a chain around Gerolminis neck, she was asked how it felt to have it back. She smiled. It feels like when you get engaged, she said. It made sense. This wasnt about romantic love. This was about Robbie reborn with the help of hundreds of total strangers and acquaintances and friends. In a moment like that, everything still seems possible. More than 3,000 New Jerseyans will die this year from a drug overdose. Thats more than eight per day, or about five times the rate of automotive deaths. If addiction is some kind of societal test, our state is ill-prepared. By one measure, we lead the country in failure: The Center for Disease Control reports that the rate of overdose deaths in New Jersey grew faster than in any other state, by 29.3-percent, from 2016 to 2017, the latest data available. In 2019, the body count could rise for a fifth straight year. Any questions? This one might spring to mind: Since our attempts to reduce the carnage are dismally inadequate, should we resign ourselves to failure, or should we consider adopting a harm reduction strategy that is extremely effective in 10 other countries? If you believe the latter, familiarize your lawmaker with a bill recently introduced in both chambers that would create overdose prevention centers, also known as supervised injection sites, which are safe and hygienic spaces where addicts can bring their drugs, have them tested, and shoot up with a trained staff member nearby armed with Naloxone. If that sounds radical, consider the alternative: Most addicts do their business in alleys, abandoned buildings, along railroad tracks or under a bridge. There is no overdose prevention available in these squalid places. Thats largely why overdoses are now the leading killer of Americans under 50. Are safe injection sites a signal of tolerance or a government-sanctioned shooting gallery? Some see it that way. But this is the public health crisis of our time with 72,000 Americans dead of overdoses in 2017 alone, and two-thirds linked to opioids so if injection sites keep people alive, the claim of normalizing drug use doesnt hold up. Telling people who use drugs to use some alley is normalizing barbarity, says Roseanne Scotti, State Director of Drug Policy Alliance. This is about normalizing compassion and saving lives. Had the 3,200 people who died last year been in an OPC, most of them if not all of them would be alive now. That is not hyperbole. Consider the Insite facility in Vancouver, the first legal injection site in North America: In its 16 years of operation, it has had 3.6 million visits, and more than 7,000 overdoses. Number of deaths: zero. Academic studies from 100-plus prevention centers in 10 countries have found the same results. Millions of injections, no lives lost all because they follow a protocol that involves a vigilant staff and a supply of Naloxone. And critically, at Insite where they handle 800 visits a day director Russell Maynard says visitors are 35 percent more likely to enter treatment than other addicts. Seattle and San Francisco are planning to launch OPCs. In Philadelphia, where OD deaths have tripled in the last five years, city government has authorized comprehensive user engagement sites. Even the police commissioner, who visited Insite, is on board. They believe one OPC will save 75 lives a year and millions in hospital costs. New York will follow suit with four legal injection sites, though it already has a quasi-legal Manhattan facility that has the tacit endorsement of Mayor de Blasio. This one has an unlocked bathroom door, a chill-out room, and a staff that can advise an addict on pursuing treatment if or when he is ready. Yes, this is controversial a nimby nightmare, actually - and there will be federal pushback. And it is a tough sell locally: Its like the syringe access programs on steroids, says Senate Health Committee chairman Joe Vitale (D-Middlesex), who did a legislative Sisyphus for a decade before winning the fight for needle exchanges. But we have come far since the heroin epidemic turned pale. We have affirmed that in a civilized society, no one should be sent to prison for an illness. We provide free needles to alleviate the spread of deadly diseases and Naloxone to reverse ODs. Now we have to acknowledge that addicts should not be left to die in societys shadows when life-saving help is available. EVENT: We're hosting a forum on Overdose Prevention Centers in New Jersey with @TCNJ! Join us on April 5th to learn from an expert panel on innovations in #overdose prevention! #EndOverdose #harmreduction RSVP here: https://t.co/Upjwom4Qx2 pic.twitter.com/twIOkDG0g3 Drug Policy Alliance New Jersey (@DrugPolicy_NJ) March 5, 2019 Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. The State Commission of Investigation report released this week on the byzantine business structures behind three Hudson County hospitals revives that queasy feeling we get when linking the words for profit with traditionally public service organizations. As with for-profit schools, it just makes one worry about where allegiances lie in a vital industry. According to the SCI report, the owners of the three CarePoint Health hospitals Bayonne Medical Center, Christ Hospital in Jersey City, and Hoboken University Medical Center involve a series of some 20-plus limited liability corporations and trusts controlled in varying measures by three men Vivek Garipalli, James Lawler and Jeffrey Mandler. Despite having no employees, two of those LLCs IJKG and Sequoia Healthcare Management charged the hospitals a combined $157 million in management fees for the years 2013 to 2016, the report said. In sworn testimony, Mandler called the fees payment for the three mens sweat equity and Garipalli called them incentive payments to be made only if the hospitals are successful. The report, which is aimed more at the state Department of Health and the state Legislature than at CarePoint, rightly notes that, had the current owners not taken over, the three hospitals had been bankrupt and could have closed, leaving gaping holes for the community. It should also not be overlooked that owners of for-profit hospitals take on burdens and risks that are not faced by nonprofit executives, many of whom receive significant salaries and other compensation, the report notes. However, such remuneration to nonprofit executives is, at least at some level, already required to be disclosed via IRS Form 990s, which are publicly available. That public disclosure is the sticking point. As the report notes, the fact that the hospitals could make such hefty payments to IJKG and Sequoia can be read two ways: On the one hand, the CarePoint hospitals have actually done better financially than the margins would suggest, at least on the surface. On the other, to the extent that any hospitals equity is being diminished through expenses such as significant related-party transactions, this could change the picture dramatically, depressing operating margins and bringing into question long-term financial viability. For the head of unions at Bayonne and Christ, the lack of transparency is troubling. When we asked where the fees were going and whether or not the fees were going into investments in healthcare services, we never got an answer, union spokeswoman Bridget Devane told us. We did not get an answer on how that money was being used in the interest of the community. The state Department of Health is tasked with licensing hospitals and stepping in if it looks like one could flat line, leaving a community without a literal lifeline. In this relatively brave new world of for-profit hospitals, the accounting has to be transparent if the DOH is to have the tools it needs to make such assessments. The SCI report also notes that ensuring a proper understanding of the financials will help the DOH, other state agencies and the Legislature be well-informed when deciding on state aid to hospitals. CarePoint spokeswoman Jennifer Morrill said the hospital group supports the reports recommendations and has offered to supply the DOH with additional information that exceeds what is currently required. These are good first steps. The state, though, must update its requirements to ensure that it and the community have access to information on the true health of for-profit hospitals where potential conflicts of interest could be hidden by creative bookkeeping. And there remains the troubling question of whether business smarts and sweat equity are enough to justify a $157 million reward. That money didnt drop from the sky: It came out of Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance companies, and last but not least the deductibles and co-pays charged to thousands of Hudson residents, often during their most frail and needy moments. Some of it came when reports said Bayonne Medical Center and Christ Hospital were billing Medicare some of the highest rates in the country for certain procedures. Further, does that reward drag down frontline salaries and result in higher costs to the patient? Trenton should now take a much closer look at for-profit hospitals, asking whether investors are forcing patients to choose unfairly between their money and their life. Submit letters to the editor and guest editorials to jjletters@jjournal.com. A Slidell postal worker has pleaded guilty to stealing money and gift cards from the mail. The crime occurred over a four-month period. The U.S. attorneys office in New Orleans said a Postal Service customer complained in December 2016 about 25-year-old Bria Davis handling of envelopes containing two Toys R Us gift cards totaling $50. Postal workers then deposited two pieces of test mail containing $100 and $35 Best Buy gift cards, found Davis mishandled the contents but were not certain of what she did with the cards, according to court records. In January 2017, they deposited another test mail to Davis retail window, this one containing $100. Agents watched Davis remove the money and put it in her pocket. When they interviewed her, she admitted to the cash theft and said she also stole the Best Buy gift cards but threw them out her car window. A search of her car turned up 10 more stolen mail items in her trunk and glove compartment, as well as numerous checkbooks and gift cards to businesses such as like Babies R Us, Applebees and Target. Davis admitted stealing each of the items, authorities said. Sentencing is scheduled June 27. Davis faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000.00 fine, although maximum sentences for first offenders are rare in federal court. Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards said Saturday (March 23) that Sen. Karen Carter Peterson, the head of the state Democratic Party, has shown strength by coming forward about her gambling addiction. Peterson disclosed her addiction after it was reported that State Police removed her from a Baton Rouge casino in February. Karen has shown strength and contrition in the face of a difficult situation," said Edwards, Louisianas highest-ranking Democratic elected official. "Addiction is a terrible disease, and I am praying for her, her family and her recovery. Peterson said she was told to leave a casino because she participates in a voluntary government program for gambling addicts. The program is designed to help keep gambling addicts out of casinos. She also alleged that someone intentionally breached her confidential participation in the program by leaking her name and the incident to the news media. She disclosed her addiction after WWL television published a story saying she received a misdemeanor citation Feb. 27 for remaining in a place after being forbidden. Peterson said the summons is the result of her voluntary enrollment in the gambling addiction recovery program. Recently while experiencing challenging times, I violated my voluntary ban and was issued a summons, Peterson wrote in a statement released Friday. The program worked as it should. I certainly regret failing to uphold my agreement to avoid casinos." Karen Carter Peterson, head of La. Democrats, discloses gambling addiction after removal from casino State Sen. Karen Carter Peterson appears to have been taking the right steps to deal with a gambling addiction she says she has struggled with for years. She sought professional treatment and guidance from my spiritual leader and went so far as to put herself on a self-exclusion list, giving consent for officials to remove her from a casino and issue her a summons simply for setting foot on the premises. The law recognizes that self-discipline and willpower do not always hold up against the compulsion to gamble. And the state, which sanctions gambling through its licensing process, should take some responsibility for reducing as much of the collateral damage as possible. "It is a disease," Peterson says. "From time to time, I have relapsed; I have let myself down as well as family and friends who are near and dear to me." Cantrell outraged that public meeting became public That is what happened the morning of Feb. 27 when Peterson was removed from the LAuberge Casino Baton Rouge and given a summons as a record of the encounter. Under the program, those on the list are prohibited from keeping any winnings or recovering any losses from the casino. The 2001 law, which began with legislation sponsored by then-state Rep. Mitch Landrieu, was working as it should to that point. Peterson was getting the help she had requested from the state in her fight against the addiction. And since the law explicitly says the "list of self-excluded persons shall not be open to public inspection," Peterson assumed she would be able to keep her problem private. But then, the senator says, she learned that a news outlet was about to report on the case through information "leaked by one of the entities responsible for maintaining confidentiality." WWL-TV reported Friday evening (March 22) that Peterson had been issued a misdemeanor citation by Louisiana State Police for remaining places after being forbidden last month at the Lauberge Casino Resort in Baton Rouge, an indication she is banned from the casino. The TV station couldn't add a lot to the vague story, noting that Peterson declined to comment and that State Police and the casino wouldn't prove any other details. It was after the WWL report that Peterson issued a statement on her Facebook page under the heading My Truth and addressed to friends and supporters. "As a result of an intentional breach of confidentiality regarding a voluntary state program designed to help individuals avoid the negative effects of gambling," she says, "I am writing to discuss a very personal matter that involves no allegations of wrongdoing on my part." The key point here is that someone within the regulatory process decided to break the confidentiality built into the law for the protection and privacy of people who are struggling with a problem that can cause deep embarrassment and shame. Could Peterson have handled the story better by responding to questions when first approached by the TV station? As a longtime and influential member of the Legislature who sits on committees that deal with gambling regulation and casino contracts, should she have publicly disclosed her own issues? As a public servant and the head of the Louisiana Democratic Party, should she have recognized that keeping such a secret made her vulnerable to manipulation by vested interests? You can answer yes to all those questions and still condemn the anonymous source of the leak that appears to have no legitimate purpose beyond political gain or personal vendetta. Peterson rightfully expresses concern that "others struggling with gambling addiction may be discouraged from participating in this voluntary program because the confidentiality has been breached." Elite college admission brings out the criminal class That would be a horrible outcome and the reason that the state Gambling Board and the State Police must assure all those who have already taken the courageous step of adding their names to the list, that their privacy will be protected. Blowing the whistle on public corruption is one thing, outing someone in what is essentially part of a treatment program is quite another. Tim Morris is a columnist on the Latitude team at NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Latitude is a place to share opinions about the challenges facing Louisiana. Follow @LatitudeNOLA on Facebook and Twitter. Write to Tim at tmorris@nola.com. An ugly fight over an audit that found the city of Zachary paid two vendors $3.5 million without having contracts in place has died down some, but the city councilman most upset about the matter has made clear he is not giving up on his quest for What you need to know about your privacy and the alleged data breach on Nokia 7 Plus phones 22 March 2019 HMD Global takes the privacy and security of its consumers seriously. With the recent news regarding the Nokia 7 Plus, its important that you hear about what happened from us and learn more about how we collect and store data. We have looked deeply into the case at hand and can confirm that no personally identifiable information has been shared with any third party. We have analysed the case at hand and have found that our device activation client meant for our China variant was mistakenly included in the software package of a single batch of Nokia 7 Plus phones. Due to this mistake, these devices were erroneously trying to send device activation data to a third party server. However, such data was never processed, and no person could have been identified based on this data. To be clear, no personally identifiable information has been shared with any third party. This error has already been identified and fixed in February 2019 by switching the client to the right country variant. All affected devices have received this fix and nearly all devices have already installed it. If you want to check if your Nokia 7 Plus has received the security fix, we have included step-by-step instructions below. There is also some speculation about other Nokia phones sharing similar data with third-party servers. We can confirm that this is incorrect speculation and no Nokia phones are impacted. All device data of Nokia Phones other than the China variant is stored at HMD Globals servers in Singapore provided by Amazon Web Services. HMD Global takes the security and privacy of its consumers seriously and complies with all applicable privacy laws. Data collected from our devices is stored safely in accordance with applicable laws. The device data collection is further explained on our web pages . We encourage our consumers to familiarize themselves with this information and our Privacy Policy that further explains the data collection. HMD Global takes the privacy and security of its consumers seriously. However, before you go, please take a look at our infographic and Q&A below for more information on how we collect and store data, plus step-by-step instructions to check if your Nokia 7 Plus has received the security fix. Demystifying data collection Additional information Why do we collect data from the devices? We collect data from devices for two primary reasons: Activating device warranty: When the device is taken into use for the first time, it sends data to our servers. This data helps us activate warranty on the device. Improve user satisfaction: In case you choose to participate in the User Experience Program, we collect device satisfaction feedback and diagnostics data from your Nokia phone. This helps us to enhance our products and services based on your feedback. How do we manage privacy within HMD Global? Our software developers are continuously trained to master local privacy requirements such as the GDPR or China Cyber Security Law requirements. This applies also to the software developers from partners working together with us. We take privacy extremely seriously and follow privacy as a design process. This means that all changes and updates to data collection are always approved by a privacy expert. On top of that, we conduct regular third party audits for our data collection and management processes. We also have strict policies in place related to technical architecture, data and access management. Where is my device data stored if I have purchased the device for example from Europe, US or India? Your data is stored in Singapore. Singapore, as you may already know, follows very strict privacy laws. Where is my device data stored if I have purchased the device from China? In order to comply with China Cyber Security law, we are obligated to store data originating from China in China. This means that only those devices that are sold in China will send data to our servers in China. How can I check if my Nokia 7 Plus has received the security fix? If you want to confirm your device is up to date, follow these steps: Four times a year, hydrographer Ted Baker plunges a tube up to 35 feet long into the Lassen Peak snowpack. Baker is the latest in a long line of surveyors who have been measuring and recording snow depth and water content in Lassen Volcanic National Park since 1930. Even in his first winter season, Baker noticed some interesting variations in his 16 survey sites, known as snow courses, located throughout the Upper Feather River Watershed. Just south of Lassen Volcanic, the Mount Dyer snow course (7,100) provides a good view of Lake Almanor and highlights the snow coverage contrast of higher and lower elevations. Further south, the Four Trees snow sensor site (5,150') receives significant amounts of precipitation. This relatively low elevation site often provides a visible marker of the transition from snow to rain on the landscape. Lower Lassen Peak (8,250), near Lake Helen, is Baker's most challenging snow course. Multiple ice layers make it difficult to push the sampling tube down to the ground. His deepest snow core in 2017, taken on April 1, was 25 feet deep. Even with a partner, completing the ten measurements spread across the 1,000-foot course can take anywhere from two to four hours to complete, while other snow courses average about 45 minutes. The snow survey process and equipment used by Baker is similar to that designed by James E. Church in 1905. Known as the Father of Snow Surveying, this unlikely liberal arts professor established the first weather observatory on nearby Mt. Rose. The station, perched between Reno and Lake Tahoe, served as an outdoor laboratory to study snow in all of its phases. The resulting data exposed a link between water content of snow on Mt. Rose and the spring rise of Lake Tahoe. Church realized that by measuring the depth and the weight of a snow sample, he could determine the amount of water contained in the snow. This information was used to end a Lake Tahoe water battle between local land owners and downstream users by providing a forecast to inform water management practices. Today, Church's methods are used at more than 300 snow courses throughout California. The multiple snow cores taken at each site tell a story of the storms that have come and gone. A light, powdery snow layer reflects a cold, drier storm; while a heavy, thick snow layer indicates a warmer, wetter storm. In the winter of 2016-2017, visitors to Lassen Volcanic and nearby residents experienced more rain than in previous years. The wet weather was reflected in the density of Lassen Peaks snowpack, which on April 1 measured 55 percent, the highest on record for the site. More than half of the 253 inches of snow on Lassen Peak was water. If all that snow melted instantaneously, it would create a pool of water 134 inches, or about 11 feet, deep. Data from the Lower Lassen Peak snow course is used to produce monthly forecasts from January to May. Forecasters use average density and depth for each snowpack to estimate spring and summer snowmelt runoff into rivers and reservoirs. The April 1 measurements are generally the most significant as this is when the snowpack is normally at its greatest depth and density. Snow water equivalent forecasts provide valuable information for recreation, agriculture, flood management, and hydroelectric power generation. Companies, like Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) in northern California, use the forecasts to determine what percentage of their electric energy generation will be hydro power. Water storage managers determine how much water can be safely stored in a reservoir while reserving space for predicted inflows, like snowmelt and rainfall. Many of the organizations that use these monthly forecasts also contribute to them. Today in California, more than 50 state, national, and private agencies pool their efforts in collecting snow data. At Lassen Volcanic, park staff and partners work together to record data at Manzanita Lake and Lassen Peak. Visitors to the Lake Helen picnic area may have spotted the 36-foot-tall snow sensor that collects and transmits real-time data to specialists at the California Department of Water Resources. Data from this remote station is manually verified four times each winter by a surveyor, like PG&E hydrographer Ted Baker. This winter Baker will return to the snow-covered slopes of Lassen Peak and collect snow measurements for the course. We will yet again anticipate the April 1 measurements, which will predict whether snowpack run-off levels will be high or low. Will a dense snowpack once again maintain normal reservoir levels restored last winter? Californias precipitation is the most variable in the nation, making forecasting a particular challenge. Numerous years of data across hundreds of sites provide a valuable record of weather and the longer-term pattern of climate. The 2011-2016 California drought highlighted the importance of our mountain snowpacks, just as the water-rich winter of 2016-2017 focused our attention on water storage systems. The data from the snowpack in Lassen Volcanic National Park may be almost as valuable as the water it contains. You can join the effort to collect and record data in the park or even in your own neighborhood. It may sound hard, but measuring precipitation in your backyard or calculating snow density is surprisingly easy. Although, just to make it a little easier, hydrographer Ted Baker recommends starting with a sample a tad smaller than a 25-foot-deep core. You are clearly a super-user of NUVO.net. Thats a good thing. It means you depend on independent and local news sources to keep you informed. You are a smart person. Coincidentally, independent and local news sources depend on you too. Youve read 25 articles this month and now, wed like you to be join our mission and become a NUVO Supporter. For as little as $4 a month, you can keep us alive and fighting -- and can have unlimited access to the independent news that cant be found anywhere else. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York said on Friday that it did not plan to accept future gifts from the family of Mortimer D. Sackler, a philanthropist and former board member whose money has been met with growing unease in the art world as his familys pharmaceutical interests have been linked to the opioid crisis. The Guggenheims decision was announced one day after Tate, which runs some of the most important art museums in Britain, announced a similar move, saying that in the present circumstances we do not think it right to seek or accept further donations from the Sacklers. Earlier this week, Britains National Portrait Gallery also spurned the Sackler family, saying it would not accept a long-discussed $1.3 million donation from one of the familys foundations, the London-based Sackler Trust. The Guggenheim announced its decision on Friday in a brief statement that did not mention the opioid crisis or Mr. Sacklers past on the museums board. A museum spokeswoman declined on Friday night to explain its rationale for the move or its decision-making process. The Federal Emergency Management Agency unnecessarily shared sensitive personal data of more than two million disaster victims with a contractor, subjecting that information to potential identity theft and fraud, a government memo released on Friday said. The memo, known as a management alert and written by the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security, said the data of survivors of the 2017 California wildfires and Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria were released to an unidentified contractor. There were no indications that the data had been compromised, the agency said in a statement on Friday night. The agency said it had worked with the contractor to scrub the unnecessary data from its computer networks. The memo, which was dated March 15 but surfaced on Friday, found that 20 data fields were unnecessarily shared with the contractor, including details about the victims financial institutions, electronic funds transfer numbers and bank transit numbers. Investigators estimated 2.3 million people helped by FEMA might have been affected. 2014: Russia sends troops into Ukraine and occupies the Crimean Peninsula. That helps set in motion a chain of events that brings us to here. I call it the Russian witch hunt. The public release of special counsel Robert Muellers report, the investigation into whether people associated with Donald Trumps campaign Lock him up! conspired with Russia in 2016 Its a whole big fat hoax. and whether Trump or his aides tried to obstruct this investigation. The people doing that investigation, theyre dirty cops. So how did we get here, from this to this? There was no collusion, theres no Russia. O.K., starting with Crimea, Russia enters and eventually annexes the region from Ukraine. The U.S. supports Ukraines government, so the U.S. responds with sanctions. To impose a cost on Russia. Russia decides to strike back to undermine U.S. democracy. Show me what hypocrisy looks like! How? Use Americas polarized politics to turn people against each other. Dont shoot! Perfect timing, because its 2015, and here comes the presidential election. The months tick by. Trump does well. I consider myself the presumptive nominee. Then several members of his campaign get approached by people with ties to Russia. Those people claim to have information that can hurt the Hillary Clinton campaign. See, the Russians dont like Clinton. They dont want her to become president. They say that she meddled in Russian affairs when she was secretary of state. But Trump Wouldnt it be nice if we actually got along with Russia? Then we learned that Russian hackers had infiltrated the Democratic National Committees computer system. And just over a month later, Wikileaks publishes 20,000 hacked Democratic emails. All of this makes the F.B.I. more suspicious of Russian meddling and suspicious of ties between Trump campaign aides and Moscow. Trumps campaign chairman at the time, Paul Manafort, denies this. We have no relationship. The F.B.I. investigates. Then election victory, and the stakes get higher. President Obama gets ready to leave office. But before he does The Russians were responsible for hacking the D.N.C. he announces new sanctions on Russia. Enter Michael Flynn, Trumps soon-to-be national security adviser. He urges Russias U.S. ambassador from Moscow not to retaliate over those Obama sanctions. Russia agrees. Thats a problem because Trump hasnt been inaugurated yet. Flynn isnt part of the U.S. government. He may have broken federal law by doing this. Then So help me God. Soon Flynn has to resign because he misled the vice president and others I was disappointed. about those conversations with the Russian ambassador. These chats become part of the F.B.I. investigation into Russian ties with the Trump campaign. The day after Flynn resigns, Trump meets with F.B.I. Director James Comey. According to Comey, Trump asked him to stop investigating Flynn. I took it as this is what he wants me to do. Three months after that meeting, Trump fires Comey. According to the White House He fired him because he was not fit to do the job. Its that simple. Eight days later, the Justice Department taps former F.B.I. Director Robert Mueller to lead the investigation now that Comey is gone. His inquiry now includes Comeys firing. Did Trump try to obstruct the investigation by asking Comey to stop investigating Flynn? Lets move ahead to five months after Mueller took the job. He begins charging several Trump associates with a variety of crimes, like lying to the F.B.I. and bank fraud. See, thats important because they may have information that helps Muellers investigation. He can offer them lesser punishments in exchange for that information. Now its been almost 11 months since Mueller took over the investigation. And who gets caught up in this? Michael Cohen, Trumps personal lawyer. Hes mostly charged with crimes that arent part of the Mueller investigation. Mr. Cohen will continue to cooperate. But Mueller wants to talk to him to see if he knows anything about Trump business dealings in Russia while Trump was running for president. How do you feel about you may have changed an election? By the time Cohen testifies before Congress, its clear hes done being loyal to Trump. He is a racist. He is a con man. And he is a cheat. And so we come to the present, about five years since Russia annexed Crimea. The investigation You wouldnt oversee a witch hunt, would you? speculation There was no anything, so thats the nice part. and anticipation Robert Mueller may be ready to submit his findings. are all in the past. Only the future will tell us how the Mueller report will go down in American history. michael barbaro So its here. michael schmidt Well, its in the hands of Bill Barr. Its not here in the sense that we can publicly consume it and see what Bob Mueller found. It has just moved from one pocket, which we cant see into, into another pocket that we cant see into. michael barbaro But it has moved pockets, at least, which is something. Something weve been waiting two years for. michael schmidt Correct. Bob Mueller is done with his investigation. michael barbaro From The New York Times, Im Michael Barbaro. This is a special episode of The Daily. Today: The Mueller report has been sent to the attorney general. Its Friday afternoon, March 22. So Mike, talk me through your day today. michael schmidt So knowing it was going to be a big day, I turned on the recorder as soon as I left the house this morning and made my way into the office to hurry up and wait. [music] michael schmidt All right. 10:05 a.m. michael schmidt I left my house at 10:00 a.m. michael schmidt We expect the report to be finished today around noon. michael schmidt Walking down 17th Street, heading to the office. michael schmidt I got a call from the office from my editor wanting to know what I knew. Told her I knew nothing. Last thing an editor wants to hear nothing new. michael schmidt Not a ton of people on the streets. speaker Excuse me. michael schmidt Yes? speaker Do you know where the Jamaican Embassy is? michael schmidt I do not, Im sorry. Do you know what the address is? michael schmidt Was stopped by a woman who couldnt find the Jamaican embassy. michael schmidt O.K., so youre going to want to go this way. Go to DuPont Circle, and make a right. Just keep on following that trail. speaker Oh, O.K., so Im going the wrong way. michael schmidt Well, were all going the wrong way. michael schmidt Come up to Massachusetts Avenue. michael schmidt Cold March day. Fairly cold here in Washington. 45 degrees. michael schmidt Just had a normal sort of walk into the office. michael schmidt [HUMMING] Half a block away, coming up to 17th michael barbaro It doesnt seem like youre in a big hurry to get to the office. michael schmidt Well, all the work has been done. We know whats coming. michael schmidt How are you? speaker Hey, Mike. michael schmidt Whats going on? michael schmidt So come into the building. michael schmidt Big day? No? Not a big day? All right. michael schmidt Get on the elevator. elevator voice announcer Floor seven. michael schmidt Walk into the office. And everyone wants to know speaker 1 What do you got? What do you got? speaker 2 Chasing the report. michael schmidt Whens it going to happen? speaker This is the question I ask him every five michael schmidt Days or speaker Days or weeks. michael schmidt Days or weeks? michael schmidt The whole apparatus of The New York Times is jacked up for this moment. michael schmidt We got Nick here. Were all ready. speaker Gangs all here. michael schmidt Theres been a lot of time and planning thats gone into this. Theres a lot of stories that have been written that are ready to go. speaker Does that seem right? michael schmidt Yep. speaker O.K. michael schmidt Everyones sitting around waiting, and they want answers. dean baquet So whats the latest? michael schmidt Dean Baquet, our executive editor, calls down to Washington to ask Elisabeth Bumiller, our bureau chief, what do you know? elisabeth bumiller Youre not so sure about it? michael schmidt Im less sure about the timing, but michael schmidt Elizabeth calls me over to her desk, puts him on speakerphone. Mikey, what do you know? dean baquet Do you know much of a heads-up we may or may not get? michael schmidt My guess is not a lot because I dont know what there is to get a heads-up on. michael schmidt And I said, I dont know. michael barbaro [LAUGHS] You tell them that you dont know. michael schmidt We dont know! dean baquet O.K. elisabeth bumiller Thats what we got. michael schmidt So thats all we got. elisabeth bumiller And we have stories ready. Once we get the word from Justice, we just push a button. michael schmidt All the work is done. elisabeth bumiller Were just tourists hanging around. michael schmidt Were sort of lemmings at this point. michael schmidt So its sort of just having the same unsatisfying conversation with different people throughout the office for several hours while eating doughnuts. michael barbaro [LAUGHS] michael schmidt And then it happens. archived recording The special counsel investigation is over. Special Counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his investigation into Russian election interference and possible coordination with associates of President Donald Trump. That report has been submitted. Now the question is, what happens to it? How much gets released and when? That is up to the new attorney general, Bill Barr. michael barbaro So what do we know at this stage? It is Friday afternoon. Whats our understanding? michael schmidt Our understanding is that the attorney general and his deputies now have a long weekend of reading ahead of them. They have to go through the report, see whats there, digest it, and then figure out what to do with it. How much of it should be made public, how much of it should be given to Congress, and how much of it should remain secret. michael barbaro Is that really all we know at this point? Is there anything about how this unfolded that tells us anything about the report or what Mueller has found, if hes decided to bring any charges against any figure in the White House, or how hes thinking about this? michael schmidt We just know that Mueller is done. There are no more individuals that will be charged by the special counsels office in the investigation. If anyone else has gotten caught up in this, they will be indicted by other U.S. attorneys across the country who have absorbed investigations from the special counsels office. michael barbaro So the version of the report that will go to Congress and be seen by the public is the version that the attorney general has had a chance to go through and decide which parts should be seen by the larger world and which should not. And thats still going to take a while for him to figure out. michael schmidt Correct. And its a very difficult process, because if there is criminality in regards to the president, its a very tricky issue to navigate. The Justice Department has a policy that says the president cant be indicted. But if the president cant be indicted, Congress should deal with that behavior. How do you give that information to Congress? Its not a snap decision you can make like, O.K., Muellers done, this is what he found. Lets put this in another box and send it to Congress. Its far trickier. michael barbaro So how does the A.G. make the decision about what to include and what not to include in this report? michael schmidt Barr is in this incredibly difficult spot, because he has to figure out how much information to share with the public and Congress in a way that is enough to leave people convinced that this investigation was done thoroughly and based on following the facts. But he has to protect the president from disclosures about him that the public may be interested in, that his political enemies may want to know, but that has no bearing on the actual criminal investigation that was done. michael barbaro And does how the attorney general handles that balance depend, in your mind, Mike, on what the report from Mueller finds and says and recommends? michael schmidt Yes. If Mueller says the president didnt break the law, then Barr has to figure out how much information to give to Congress so that Congress takes those findings seriously. The problem is Barr is in a very difficult spot politically, because the Democrats have already concluded the president did something wrong. So if Barr learns from Mueller that theres no criminality on the president, how does Barr then win over those Democrats and show them that Mueller truly made a decision based on the facts? How much of what the investigation found does he have to give to the Hill? In a normal criminal investigation, all of that information would not become public because the Justice Department would want to protect the individual who they have found did not commit a crime. But this situation is different, because a lot of people do think the president committed a crime. So how do you show the Democrats and the rest of the country that hey, look, this is what Mueller found. He only found X, Y, and Z. And if we wanted to make a case, he would have needed to have uncovered these other things, which he did not. And thats why were confident with his findings. michael barbaro And on the other hand, if Mueller does find criminality and perhaps recommend charges against the president, how does Barr have to proceed? michael schmidt Well, how much of the evidence that Mueller uncovered should go to Congress? What should be told to Congress? Should Congress be told explicitly, look, Mueller believes the president violated these laws, and heres the evidence to back it up? But what if some of that evidence has been obtained from a grand jury? The Justice Department cant just hand over grand jury information to Congress. What if the information is classified? Theyre not going to want to hand over classified information to Congress. They think Congress leaks like a sieve. michael barbaro Is it safe to say though, Mike, that if criminality is found by Mueller, Congress and the public will see more of the Muller report than if that is not found? michael schmidt Maybe. Maybe. But look, this is a highly unusual situation. The person who runs the executive branch, the president, has just been under investigation by folks inside of his own branch for the past 22 months. Very awkward situation. michael barbaro And the person making the decision about what we all will learn about that investigation is a direct appointee of that president. michael schmidt Correct. Has the job because the president put him there. So the perception here is one where the average person looks at this and says, well, how can a guy who was made attorney general by the president look at this situation and make a decision that is free of politics? And how can I have confidence that this was done based on the facts? michael barbaro So when will we know more? When will we know what the attorney general has decided on that front? michael schmidt Oh, now you want to know more. michael barbaro [LAUGHS] Yes, please. michael schmidt The greed of the news business. michael barbaro If youll indulge us. michael schmidt When will we know more? Barr and his deputies will go through this, and I dont know sometime in the next few days, sometime in the next few weeks. It may be a difficult process to unbraid. Mueller has been rummaging around the presidents life for 22 months. We dont have clarity into everything Muellers found. What if Barr looks at it and says, eh, Mueller thinks he violated this law and that law. But actually, I dont think he has it. Maybe theres not enough there. Maybe Barr disagrees with what Mueller has found, simply on a legal basis. The other thing is that Barr only really gets one shot to get it right. Whatever he goes out the door with in terms of handing over information to Congress, hes got to have it right. Hes not going to have a second chance to say, well, you know, I gave you that stuff. But like, meh, maybe its not what I thought it was. Or, oh, lets give you more. He has to get it right the first time. Otherwise, hell look like hes waffling. michael barbaro And how much of how Barr handles this will be with a mind toward the expectation that a Democratically controlled House of Representatives is already into a series of investigations that they only want to redouble once this report is in their hands? michael schmidt Barr clearly knows Congress is going to jump up and down until it is satisfied with the information that it wants about this investigation. He can drag that out and probably lose it one way or another, either in the court of public opinion or in the actual courts. So he probably just wants to get it over with as soon as possible. He knows this has been an enormous weight on the country, and that the sooner it is resolved, the sooner the country can move on. michael barbaro And Mike, what is the likelihood that the way we find out more about the Mueller report is not from the version thats sent to Congress, but from something else? I think were all really mindful of the fact that this is the era of the leak, and that this is the biggest potential leak in recent memory. michael schmidt Yeah. michael barbaro Will it leak? michael schmidt I dont know. I mean, the number of people who will have access to this document will be very small. And they will know that if there are a lot of leaks about this, then the president can start to raise questions about whats really going on. It will look nefarious. The Democrats will get their backs up and say, well, if this stuff is leaking out, why cant we have access to it? They will know that their lives will be much more difficult if there are leaks here. Obviously, you could come up with a scenario where someone working on the investigation is frustrated that the Justice Department has decided to go one way or the other on the report, and they think, ah, screw it, Im going to make this public. But my guess is they have gone to great lengths to ensure that this is heavily protected. michael barbaro So now we wait again. michael schmidt Hurry up and wait. michael barbaro Mike, thank you very much. michael schmidt Thanks for having me. michael barbaro The more serious issue may be not so much that there has been a violation of the Presidential Records Act, but the reason for a decision to circumvent it, said Robert F. Bauer, who served as White House counsel for former President Barack Obama. That is the red flag. A White House official insisted that Mr. Kushner and Ms. Trump had never improperly handled classified material. In the past, Ms. Trump and Mr. Kushner have claimed that they were not familiar with the rules that applied to them. Yet current and former White House officials familiar with the guidance that all aides there are given have said the two were given ample warning. That includes warnings about using chat apps, which are supposed to be prohibited for government business. The couple has continued to balk at the notion that there are similarities in their circumstances with Mrs. Clintons. There are some differences, but there are also a lot of equivalencies, according to lawyer familiar with federal record keeping. Mrs. Clintons case occurred under the Federal Records Act and regulations promulgated by the State Department. Mr. Kushner and Ms. Trumps case, in contrast, concerns the Presidential Records Act, which was passed in 1978 after the Watergate scandal and declares that all presidential records are public property. The most important thing it did, according to attorneys, was prohibit the destruction of records that are described as private. Mr. Lowell said at the time that he did not know if Mr. Kushner had communicated classified information on the messaging service, WhatsApp, telling lawmakers that was above my pay grade. He argued that Mr. Kushner took screenshots of the communications and sent them to his official White House account or the National Security Council and had therefore not violated federal records laws. But Mrs. Clintons former aides said they were not willing to give Mr. Kushner, in particular, the benefit of the doubt. CHARLESTON, S.C. Democratic presidential candidates wasted no time Friday evening demanding the immediate public release of the long-awaited report from Robert S. Mueller III, with several saying that Americans deserved to know any findings about President Trump, Russia and the 2016 election in order to form judgments about Mr. Trump and the 2020 race. Former Representative Beto ORourke, campaigning in South Carolina on Friday night, told reporters that those facts, that truth, needs to be laid out for all Americans to be able to make informed decisions going forward, whether at the ballot box or in their discussions with their senators and representatives. Mr. ORourke, asked if he supported impeaching Mr. Trump, said he believed the president and his 2016 campaign at least sought to collude with the Russian government to undermine our democracy and that Mr. Trump sought to obstruct justice once in office. I think those are grounds enough for members of the House to bring up the issue of impeachment, he said. But whether they do or not, this will ultimately be decided by the American public at the ballot box in South Carolina and in every state of the union. MONTGOMERY, Ala. The president of the Southern Poverty Law Center told staff members on Friday that he would step down from the crusading civil rights nonprofit, which has been roiled by charges of racism and sexual harassment and ousted its co-founder last week. Richard Cohen, the president of the S.P.L.C. since 2003, cited recent events in an email to staff members on Friday, writing that he had asked the centers board to open a search for an interim president in order to give the organization the best chance to heal. Whatever problems exist at the S.P.L.C. happened on my watch, so I take responsibility for them, Mr. Cohen wrote. Mr. Cohens leadership of the center, one of the nations wealthiest and best known nonprofit groups, has been under siege in recent weeks. CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand Hoping to limit the spread of hateful ideas attributed to the suspect accused of the Christchurch killings, New Zealand classified his so-called manifesto as objectionable on Saturday, making it a crime to possess or distribute it anywhere in the country. People who have downloaded this document, or printed it, should destroy any copies, said David Shanks, the chief censor in New Zealands Department of Internal Affairs. There is an important distinction to be made between hate speech, which may be rejected by many right-thinking people but which is legal to express, and this type of publication, which is deliberately constructed to inspire further murder and terrorism, Mr. Shanks said. It crosses the line. The ruling is part of a wider strategy by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to undermine the attempts by the suspect, Brenton Harrison Tarrant, to gain global notoriety. She has pledged never to utter his name publicly, and to press platforms like Facebook to deny access worldwide to the manifesto, which was published just before the slaughter of 50 people in two mosques, as well as the video the gunman apparently livestreamed of part of the attacks. Welcome to the weekend. Robert Mueller has submitted his report! But, believe it or not, there were lots of other news stories this week. You may have missed some great ones, so take some time to read them. Dance: The Tap Wizardry of Michelle Dorrance at City Center March 28-30, nycitycenter.org. Shes not clowning around, but for her return to City Center, Michelle Dorrance has a special guest in the form of one: Bill Irwin. The much-admired clown and actor will perform with Dorrance in the New York premiere of Lessons in Tradition, as well as present the premiere of Harlequin and Pantalone. Throughout his career, Irwin has been captivated by the themes of commedia dellarte; here, he creates a solo for the fantastically lanky hoofer Warren Craft, who dances the title roles. Irwin plays the narrator. With three distinct programs, Dorrance Dance offers other treasures, too. Along with the tap veteran Brenda Bufalinos Jump Monk, an ensemble work for 10 originally created for the North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble where Dorrance performed under Gene Medler there will be a reimagining of SOUNDspace. In 2013, Dorrance turned Danspace Project at St. Marks Church into a sonic playground. Now City Center gets the same treatment. GIA KOURLAS Boeing faced an unthinkable defection in the spring of 2011. American Airlines, an exclusive Boeing customer for more than a decade, was ready to place an order for hundreds of new, fuel-efficient jets from the worlds other major aircraft manufacturer, Airbus. The chief executive of American called Boeings leader, W. James McNerney Jr., to say a deal was close. If Boeing wanted the business, it would need to move aggressively, the airline executive, Gerard Arpey, told Mr. McNerney. To win over American, Boeing ditched the idea of developing a new passenger plane, which would take a decade. Instead, it decided to update its workhorse 737, promising the plane would be done in six years. The 737 Max was born roughly three months later. The competitive pressure to build the jet which permeated the entire design and development now threatens the reputation and profits of Boeing, after two deadly crashes of the 737 Max in less than five months. Prosecutors and regulators are investigating whether the effort to design, produce and certify the Max was rushed, leading Boeing to miss crucial safety risks and to underplay the need for pilot training. For mens wear designer, how do you compare Kerby Jean-Raymond of Pyer Moss who has 10 employees, and Thom Browne, whose company is now owned by the Italian group Ermenegildo Zegna, and for whom this is his 10th mens wear nomination (he has won three times)? Beats me. I have long had an issue with these awards its the same problem in Britain and think perhaps its time we all reconsidered the situation. Why not choose designer of the year every five years? Or just have the special honors that recognize achievement over time? It could still be a glamorous, glitzy fund-raiser, and it wouldnt feel so much like a high school popularity contest. Anyway, well find out the winners in a few months followed by Toms plans. While we all bate our breath, take a moment to read about why your shopping on Instagram is about to get a lot easier, get the inside scoop on the Levis IPO, and delve into the world of watches as, over in Basel, Switzerland, timepieceapalooza gets underway. Have a good weekend. And eat your kale salad. The Mueller report is coming. At some point! Your Style Questions, Answered Every week on Open Thread, Vanessa will answer a readers fashion-related question, which you can send to her anytime via email or Twitter. Questions are edited and condensed. Q: Stories of women and designers of color like Mary Quant and Stephen Burrows are often hidden from the public eye. Who is your favorite fashion designer whose story has been written out of history? Elizabeth, San Francisco A: There are so many! First, though, let me say that while we complain a lot about the revival of old houses, one positive side effect of the trend has been to keep alive names that might otherwise fall into the shadows of history. See, for example, the soon-to-be-revived House of Patou, which LVMH is readying for a comeback. Elizabeth Storm Garner and John Jung Wang were married March 23 at the winter home of the brides family in Borrego Springs, Calif. Susan Hwang, a friend of the bride, officiated through Californias deputy marriage commissioner for a day program. The bride, who is 35 and known as Storm, is studying for a masters degree in oral history at Columbia, from which she graduated with a bachelors degree in creative writing. She was the costume and production designer for the narrative feature film South Mountain, by Hilary Brougher, which had its premiere on March 11 at the South by Southwest film festival in Austin, Tex. She is a daughter of Wendy Feltman Garner and William V. Garner of Washington. Her mother is a landscape painter and muralist whose sky and seascape oil paintings will be on display in April at the Cross MacKenzie Gallery in Washington. The brides father retired as an international political consultant. The groom, 37, operates the Queens International Night Market, an open-air night market in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, featuring vendors selling food and merchandise, as well as cultural performances celebrating the diversity and heritage of Queens and the rest of New York City. He was previously a corporate lawyer with Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, the Manhattan law firm. At the heart of the Medicare for all proposals championed by Senator Bernie Sanders and many Democrats is a revolutionary idea: Abolish private health insurance. Proponents want to sweep away our complex, confusing, profit-driven mess of a health care system and start fresh with a single government-run insurer that would cover everyone. But doing away with an entire industry would also be profoundly disruptive. The private health insurance business employs at least a half a million people, covers about 250 million Americans, and generates roughly a trillion dollars in revenues. Its companies stocks are a staple of the mutual funds that make up millions of Americans retirement savings. Such a change would shake the entire health care system, which makes up a fifth of the United States economy, as hospitals, doctors, nursing homes and pharmaceutical companies would have to adapt to a new set of rules. Most Americans would have a new insurer the federal government and many would find the health insurance stocks in their retirement portfolios much less valuable. Is there a case for a system that sometimes produces undemocratic outcomes? I think so, on two grounds. First, it creates incentives for political parties and candidates to seek supermajorities rather than just playing for 50.1 percent, because the latter play is a losing one more often than in a popular-vote presidential system. Second, it creates incentives for political parties to try to break regional blocs controlled by the opposition, rather than just maximizing turnout in their own areas, because you win the presidency consistently only as a party of multiple regions and you can crack a rival partys narrow majority by flipping a few states. According to this admittedly contrarian theory, the fact that the Electoral College produces chaotic or undemocratic outcomes in moments of ideological or regional polarization is actually a helpful thing, insofar as it drives politicians and political hacks (by nature not the most creative types) to think bigger than regional blocs and 51 percent majorities. Thus the electoral/popular split of 1888 pointed the way to William McKinley and Teddy Roosevelts national Republican majorities, and the near-splits of 1968 and 1976 pushed us toward Reagans nationwide landslides and Bill Clintons successful center-left campaigns. Time and again a close election leads to hand-wringing about the need for Electoral College reform; time and again, politicians and parties respond to the colleges incentives, and more capacious and unifying majorities are born. Does this theory fit our current situation? In a sense, yes. Donald Trump could win the presidency without a popular-vote majority only because both parties have been locked into base-turnout strategies that are partially responsible for our governments ineffectiveness and gridlock. And to the extent that Hillary Clintons campaign leaned into this polarization (writing off many constituencies that her husband competed for), she deserved her electoral-college loss. Thus, notwithstanding the catastrophic military blows the group has suffered and the loss of its territorial rule, the Islamic State has made it unmistakably clear that it will carry on the fight even if the caliphate is militarily incapacitated. In early March, Islamic State fighters released a video from the Syrian town of Baghuz that urged the groups followers to maintain their faith in the caliphate, even as Kurdish forces advanced toward the last of its territory. Unfortunately, it appears that the Islamic State has both the will and limited assets necessary to survive to fight another day. Indeed, before he was killed by an American airstrike in Syria in 2016, Abu Mohammed al-Adnani, the Islamic States second most powerful leader, after Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, prepared followers for the future battles. He said, referring to the groups progenitor, Al Qaeda in Iraq: Do you, O America consider defeat to be the loss of a city or the loss of land? Were we defeated when we lost the cities in Iraq and were in the desert without any city or land? Like Al Qaeda in Iraq, which was declared defeated from 2006 until 2010, the Islamic State is returning to its insurgent roots. And less than a year after its expulsion from major urban centers, the organization now wages a low-intensity guerrilla campaign that has already killed hundreds of Iraqis, including key security personnel and tribal leaders. Designed to terrorize local communities, sow instability and expose the impotency of Iraqs security forces, the Islamic States strategy is paying dividends. The corrupt and dysfunctional Baghdad government has neglected the emaciated Sunni-inhabited cities (such as Mosul) that were liberated from the Islamic States rule. Once again, the extremist organization is appealing to disgruntled Sunnis who feel forsaken by the Shiite-dominated authorities. The recent intensification of the United States rivalry with Iran in Iraq under President Trump has served to only further weaken the central government in Baghdad and embolden the Islamic State. Similarly, in Syria, sleeper cells frequently attack the liberated Raqqa and Deir Ezzor province and inflict heavy casualties on the Syrian Democratic Forces, an American-backed coalition of Kurdish and Arab fighters. Like in Iraq, the Islamic State bides its time in Syria, hoping that Turkeys fixation with the Kurds and Mr. Trumps decision to ultimately withdraw most American troops from the northeast will create a security void that it can fill. Before Mr. Trump takes a victory lap, he should know that the next phase of the struggle against the Islamic State and Al Qaeda will be complex, costly and prolonged. A counterterrorism strategy is not sufficient. Permanently defeating these jihadist groups will require an economic, political and ideological strategy with a long-term focus. You couldnt just casually threaten suicide you had to sound like you meant it, the woman onstage recalled. You have to go and bring a razor, or whatever: If you dont tell me Im going to have an abortion right now, Im going to go out and jump off the Verrazzano Bridge. The woman was speaking in 1969. Legalized abortion nationwide was still four years away; in New York, so-called therapeutic abortions were legal but only if a doctor judged you mentally unfit to have a child. And so, the woman explained, she ended up seeing two psychiatrists who, to her relief, deemed her suicide threats real enough to be granted the procedure. The crowd clapped and roared at the absurdity of it all, until the woman explained that after her abortion, she was stuck in the maternity ward to recover right next to crying babies. The crowd wasnt laughing anymore. The speaker was one of 12 women who talked about their abortions in front of 300 people at Washington Square Methodist Church on March 21, 1969, 50 years ago. The abortion speak-out organized by the socialist-feminist group Redstockings was, according to historians, very likely the first public forum where American women talked about ending their pregnancies. They did so in a raucous, emotionally charged gathering whose legacy looms over the abortion debate today: We still employ personal, sometimes painful stories to demystify abortion. Its still not enough to simply invoke the right to control ones own body. Listening to the thick New York accents and ebullient cheering, you could almost mistake some of the testimony for an episode of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Yet the political intentions of the speak-out were serious. At the time, women didnt talk about their abortions, certainly not in public. But a wave of consciousness-raising groups in the years preceding had allowed women to share details of their sexual and reproductive lives, which they had deemed central to their oppression. The speak-out seemed a logical next step: a way to recognize that the pain and humiliation of trying to get an abortion was a social problem, not a personal one. The Brexiteers arent alone in wanting to turn back time and behave as if certain significant events never happened. A look at the more unequivocal end of the pro-European Union spectrum of British political life the die-hard Remainers finds similar retrospection. The referendum result, they claim, was not a statement but a mistake: the consequence not so much of mass dissatisfaction and a decades-long tabloid project of anti-European propaganda but of a plot to subvert our democracy. Their solution? To hold another referendum, magically erasing both the bitter divisions of the intervening years and the social and political conditions that nurtured anti-European Union rage in the first place. In an age of hidebound regression, moving forward becomes inseparable from looking backward and inward. Frustrated by what they see as the outdated and ineffective deadlock of the two-party political orthodoxy, a shiny new breakaway faction has emerged in Parliament called The Independent Group. Pressed for clarity on such tiresome details as policy, one of its more significant members, the ex-Tory Anna Soubry, defensively claimed that even to ask such a thing was the old way of politics, and that this group is based on shared values. The slightest scratch at the surface of those values, however, reveals nothing new whatsoever, with the No. 1 shared value, as listed on their website, turning out to be the drably predictable assertion that Ours is a great country of which people are rightly proud. Its the same old pillar of jingoism and self-regard to which, it increasingly seems, everyone must genuflect before, or even in place of, saying anything else at all. Here, ultimately, lies the Gordian knot at the heart of Britains predicament: To shape from our current inertia a meaningful future, we need to address the brutal reality of the present. We are not quietly leading any revolutions right now, unless one counts as a revolution our project of self-dismantlement. Were the worlds fifth-largest economy and likely to sink to seventh this year. Industry and finance are falling over themselves to flee. Nor am I convinced that anyone should be rightly proud of a country in which, according to the homelessness charity Crisis, the number of people sleeping on the streets has risen 140 percent since 2010; in which over a million emergency food packages were given to those struggling financially in the 2017-18 financial year; in which over 4 million children are living in poverty; and in which local councils in England face an 8 billion financial black hole by 2025, endangering not only their upkeep of communal spaces, but also their ability to provide adequate care for children, the elderly and people with disabilities. Indeed, when the United Nations special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights visited Britain last year, his verdict was damning, depicting not a nation picking itself up when things get tough and quietly making history but a society in which, as he put it, British compassion for those who are suffering has been replaced by a punitive, meanspirited and often callous approach. We are even, in point of fact, going off tea. Our inability to state difficult truths without first offering some reassuring patriotism accounts, in some ways, for the failure of the Remain argument. In making a negative case against leaving the European Union that it will cause irreparable harm to the economy, that vital flows of food and medicine may be disrupted, that we will consign ourselves to bit-part status on the global stage Remainers concerns have been dismissed as traitorous fantasy, the manipulative catastrophizing of what Brexiteers call Project Fear. Its impossible for me to catalog all the times Ive been in a professional setting when someone thought it appropriate to tell me about my appearance. Most recently, I was at a literary festival in Georgia. I had just talked about my book for a little under an hour: the 10 years of work Id put into it, the research I conducted to feel confident inventing a cult of domestic terrorists, and the personal grief and loss underlying the novel. In the signing line afterward, a woman complimented me on my remarks and said she was excited about my book. Then she added: Youre adorable. I wish I could adopt you. With a big smile, she walked away. There was also the bookstore event at which, during the question-and-answer portion of the evening and in front of a packed crowd with whom Id just been discussing craft, books, literature a woman told me how cute she thought I was. Theres the time I guest-taught at a graduate program, and a fellow professor called me and my friend both of us on the faculty and both of us Asian-American little lambs. There are the innumerable times professional colleagues, people I barely know, strangers even, have told me my skin is alabaster, and my hair silklike and shiny. My skins not especially pale, and even if it were, this would be weird, and diminishing. Its objectifying. Why is it so weird, you might be wondering. Aside from the colorist comments about my skin, some of these words adorable, cute, silky, shiny could be taken, incorrectly, as compliments. I acknowledge that theres luck, and privilege, in inhabiting a body that others might find appealing. But when Im at these events, I am at work. I am talking about my profession, not about my hair or skin or any perceived cuteness. At the beginning of the year, if you told me this is what we were going to be dealing with, I would have called you crazy, said Steve Manos, the mayor of Lake Elsinore, a small town in Southern California. He was taking a brief reprieve from dealing with the biggest crisis of his short term in office yet: an explosion of picture-perfect California poppies in the Temescal Mountains, just northwest of the center of town. The poppy bloom in Lake Elsinore is unlike anything Ive seen in my 32 years living in Lake Elsinore, he said. The flowers are especially vibrant in color, they are numerous and theyre covering the entire mountain. The problem for the mayor isnt the flame-orange poppies themselves, which blossom in the springtime after heavy winter rains follow an extended drought. Its their adoring, smartphone-equipped fans, who have shown up in droves over the past three weeks, bringing with them horrible traffic and occasionally horrible etiquette when they wander off the trail to pose with, trample or even pick the poppies. Wouldnt putting them on an e-reader of some sort make it easier? I have a Kindle, but I am old school. I like the physical contact with the paper. I like the smell of the paper. I like to be able to devour the book, to take notes in the margin. The physical sense of crossing the book is the same as traveling a landscape. What kind of luggage are all those books traveling in a backpack, a duffel, a rolling suitcase or something else? Never a rolling suitcase. I have a feeling that the day someone will see me with rolling luggage it must mean that a bad period is starting for me. Anyone who would see me in the next weeks, months, years, decades, with a rolling suitcase should know that things are not going well for me. Its self indulging. I have two big black leather bags of French design. Louis Vuitton. I can put my books in there and a few shirts in them. I am always dressed the same way you know my white shirts so its easy for me. And I travel with the current manuscript. Carry-on or checked luggage? I never check my luggage. I always have two or three bags on me. At least two. I have them with me because Ive not the patience to wait for them because my books are too precious. I would hate to lose them. Where are your favorite places to travel to? The places I discover. I am really a traveler. I love to move. The biggest excitement for me is to discover a new place, a new country, a new rhythm in the air. The most exciting travel is always the travel of tomorrow. Whats the most exciting trip youve been on in the last year? I went to Brazil after the election of Bolsonaro, who is to me, a fascist. I was happy to be there with the brave citizens of Brazil who were democratically protesting and lamenting against the election of the stupid, brutal man. This interview was condensed and edited slightly for clarity. 52 PLACES AND MUCH, MUCH MORE We have a new 52 Places traveler! Follow Sebastian Modak on Instagram as he travels the world, and discover more Travel coverage by following us on Twitter and Facebook. And sign up for our Travel Dispatch newsletter: Each week youll receive tips on traveling smarter, stories on hot destinations and access to photos from all over the world. These conferences are supposed to be cohesive unity builders, Mr. Miller said. But, he added, rarely has Israeli politics been more divided, and Aipac is going to mirror those divisions. Republicans will almost certainly use the conference to portray their party as the home for Israels supporters. Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky and the majority leader, is expected to talk about legislative efforts to support Israel and to oppose anti-Semitism. Representative Kevin McCarthy, the House Republican leader, will tell conferees that Aipac should not be boycotted. Aipac should be celebrated, said his spokesman, Matt Sparks. For Democrats who for decades have relied on the Jewish vote the task will be trickier. They must reiterate their support for the Jewish state without alienating progressives, including millennials and many young Jews who are increasingly willing to accuse Israel of human rights abuses. It will be interesting to see if Democratic leaders who are going to be speaking at Aipac are going to be speaking about Israeli policy as well, where they see differences with them, said Yousef Munayyer, the executive director of the U.S. Campaign for Palestinian Rights. The applause lines that are going to go over well with Aipac are not going to go over well with the rest of the Democratic Party. That tension will really be on display here. Mr. Hoyer, the Democratic leader, will speak on Sunday evening. He plans to remind his audience that the Jewish state and the United States-Israel relationship have broad, bipartisan support because most Americans see them as integral to standing up for Americas values and our national security and interests, according to a spokeswoman, Annaliese Davis. He will also talk about what Israel and America have in common as fellow democracies, and the threat posed by Iran. Washington, meanwhile, has been gearing up. Mr. Trump announced on Thursday that the United States should recognize Israels authority over the Golan Heights, a reversal of longstanding policy against accepting territorial changes acquired by force. The strategic area was seized from Syria in the Six-Day War of 1967. The policy-by-tweet was a valuable election-eve gift to Mr. Netanyahu. RYE, N.H. For Democratic presidential candidates on Saturday, it wasnt quite campaigning as usual after the delivery of a long-awaited report from the special counsel roiled Washington over the weekend. But it was pretty close. At events across early primary states, voters asked about health care and school shootings and immigration. Questioners were far less likely to address the report by the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III, which was delivered to Attorney General William P. Barr on Friday. Democratic voters said they cared deeply about the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election but werent quite sure what to make of the latest twist, exactly. [Sign up for our politics newsletter and join our conversation about the 2020 presidential race.] We dont know whats in it, said Alane Sullivan, 63, a retired businesswoman, after attending a town hall meeting with Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota in Rye, N.H. One thing about people in New Hampshire: They are looking for answers, and they knew she wouldnt know yet. Gunmen killed at least 110 Fulani herders in central Mali on Saturday, a local mayor said, in one of the deadliest such attacks in a region reeling from worsening ethnic and jihadist violence. The assaults on the villages of Ogossagou and Welingara took place as a United Nations Security Council mission visited Mali to try to find solutions to violence that killed hundreds of civilians last year and is spreading across West Africas Sahel region. Moulaye Guindo, mayor of the nearby town of Bankass, said armed men dressed as traditional Donzo hunters, encircled and attacked Ogossagou, killing about 60 people. The body count continues, Guindo told Reuters by telephone from Ogossagou. He said another nearby Fulani village, Welingara, had also been attacked, causing a number of deaths but that he did not yet know how many. MOGADISHU, Somalia Gunmen from an Islamist militant group stormed a government building in Somalias capital, Mogadishu, after a suicide car bombing on Saturday, killing at least five people, including the countrys deputy labor minister, the police said. Somali security forces fought an hourslong gun battle with at least five assailants to retake control of the building, which houses the ministries of labor and works, a police officer, Capt. Mohamed Hussein, said. The Reuters news agency, citing police sources, put the death toll at the end of the battle at 15. Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, Somalias deputy minister of labor and social affairs, was killed in his ground-floor office shortly after the gunmen stormed the building, Captain Hussein said. Saturday is a working day in Somalia, and dozens of people were believed to be in the building at the time of the attack. MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan After the second firefight in the past 10 days between American soldiers and their Afghan allies, at least 14 civilians, most of them women and children, were killed in an airstrike on Saturday in northern Kunduz province, according to Afghan officials. At least four Afghan soldiers were also killed. A spokeswoman for the American military confirmed the attack, but blamed the outcome on the Taliban. We are fighting in a complex environment and this firefight is a prime example of the challenges Afghan and coalition forces face every day, said Sgt. 1st Class Debra Richardson. The Taliban were hiding in civilian homes and maneuvered in and out of compounds without any concern for the families living inside. The episode on Saturday came a day after two members of an American Special Forces unit and four Afghan Special Forces soldiers were killed during a joint operation in Gul Tepa District, on the outskirts of Kunduz city, and involved some of the same forces, according to Afghan official accounts. The insurgents were reportedly massing on the outskirts of the city, which they have twice overrun, in 2015 and in 2016. SEOUL, South Korea North Korea on Saturday escalated its attempt to create a rift between South Korea and the United States, as Washington sent mixed signals over whether it would tighten or relax sanctions on the North. Ever since the summit meeting between the Norths leader, Kim Jong-un, and President Trump in Hanoi, Vietnam, late last month abruptly ended without a deal, North Korea has ceaselessly urged South Korea to distance itself from the United States and to push ahead with joint economic projects that have been held back by American-led United Nations sanctions. North Koreas official trade has been devastated by international sanctions imposed since 2016. The country has tried to circumvent them by importing refined fuel or exporting coal through ship-to-ship transfers on the high seas, a move banned under United Nations sanctions. It has also sought to undermine the sanctions by boosting economic cooperation with South Korea. President Moon Jae-in of South Korea remains eager to boost inter-Korean economic ties, raising fears at home and abroad that he may steer his government away from international efforts to enforce sanctions against the North. But in reality, Mr. Moons hands are tied unless the United States and North Korea reach an agreement on denuclearizing the North and Washington helps to ease sanctions. BANGKOK Pauline Ngarmpring is running for prime minister of Thailand, one of around 70 candidates for the job. She will not win. One reason is that she was born a he. But a more fundamental explanation is that Thailands elections, scheduled for Sunday, were circumscribed even before campaigning began. For nearly five years since a military coup, Thailand has been ruled by a junta that has suppressed dissent, targeted political parties and, now, orchestrated an election that will give voters only partial franchise. That hasnt stopped around 80 parties from running. Their aims are eclectic. Ms. Paulines party wants to represent not only transgender individuals like herself, but any Thai whose human rights have been compromised. Back when Britain voted to leave, no one was talking about no deal as an outcome, said Asa Bennett, who covered the referendum for The Telegraph, the daily British newspaper. The consensus was that of course wed have a deal. It would be patently obvious. It didnt even come on the radar. The notion that a no-deal exit was an option was powerfully normalized by Mrs. May herself, as negotiations with Brussels bogged down, and the complexities of removal became more obvious. In a tough-talking January 2017 speech at Lancaster House, she adopted a warning that had been used only by a small group of hard-line euroskeptic campaigners. She warned that Europe should not try to corner Britain into accepting a punitive deal, because Britain would walk away. It represented Britains main point of leverage, since Europe would suffer severely from a chaotic separation. While I am confident that this scenario need never arise while I am sure a positive agreement can be reached I am equally clear that no deal for Britain is better than a bad deal for Britain, she said. She followed this up by articulating a series of red lines, promising to exit the customs union, single market and European Court of Justice. Mr. Redwood, an anti-Europe voice in Parliament for decades, said the Lancaster House speech marked the moment when his groups thinking became fully mainstream. That was the point of the slogan that we got her to adopt, Mr. Redwood said. It was very important, and it wasnt one speech; she said it consistently. He added, In those days, she was advised by Nick Timothy, who was very much on our side. Ms. Stuart, the Vote Leave leader, said that phrase, which was later included in the Conservative Party manifesto, set off a significant shift in public perception. It did mean suddenly that talk of no deal was no longer seen as an extreme position, she said. PARIS French security forces fanned out across Paris and other cities on Saturday as the country faced a 19th weekend of Yellow Vest demonstrations, following a surge of violence last week that caught the authorities by surprise after months of dwindling numbers and calmer protests. Though sporadic clashes erupted late in the day, violence dropped on Saturday as protesters marched peacefully in the French capital and elsewhere. Nearly 6,000 police officers were out on the streets of Paris, especially around the Champs-Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe, which have become the focus of protests and where the authorities this past week banned demonstrations. ROME Italy resisted the entreaties and warnings of its European Union and American allies on Saturday by officially joining Chinas vast new Silk Road at a signing ceremony with President Xi Jinping of China, a move that crystallized shifting geopolitical balances and the populist Italian governments willingness to break with its traditional partners. The agreement will build a better relationship between China and Italy, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte of Italy said. Italy became the first of the Group of 7 nations that once dominated the global economy to take part in Chinas One Belt One Road project, which makes enormous infrastructure investments to move Chinese goods and resources throughout Asia, Africa and Europe. The Trump administration, which tried and failed to stop the deal, focused in the days leading up to Mr. Xis visit on blocking any Italian use of 5G wireless networks developed by the Chinese electronics giant Huawei, which Washington warned could be used by Beijing to spy on communications networks. The bodies of 97 people had been found by Saturday, but the morgue director, Dr. Hassan Wafiq, said 60 or more people were most likely still missing. While there is little hope that any will be found alive, their families want to at least give them a proper Islamic burial. Mr. Thanoons family has been rocked by the accident. The body of Omran and Abdullahs brother, 4-year-old Mustapha, was found on Friday; the body of Mr. Thanoons 29-year-old sister was brought to the morgue on Thursday after the boat sank. People had crowded onto the small craft a raft with flimsy railings and a canopy to keep off the sun to make the short journey across an arm of the Tigris to the island, home to a picnic ground and small amusement park. On Thursday, the festive crowd was celebrating Nowruz, the Kurdish and Persian New Year. The river was high and the boat so overloaded it was sitting low in the water as metal cables cranked it across the Tigris. In the middle of the river, one of the cables broke, the raft tipped and the passengers slid in that direction, their weight quickly causing the craft to capsize. Rescue workers continued to find victims through late Friday, some as far as 25 miles downstream, where the swift current had taken them. Though 40 or more people were rescued, many are still unaccounted for. And by all accounts, life in Baghuz as it was besieged these last few weeks was bleak. Ask me, when is the last time I had an egg? One year ago, said Amy, a 34-year-old Canadian woman who fled the village recently and gave only her first name. She had left her job as a graphic designer in Alberta with her two toddlers to join her husband in Syria. I just want to go home and have the biggest Tim Hortons coffee, she said, referring to the Canadian coffee shop chain. But those who have tracked the group since it took root in Iraq in the early 2000s say that even after losing its land, the group is far stronger today than it was the last time it was considered defeated in 2011, the year American troops pulled out of Iraq. The militants were down to their last 700 fighters then. Now, American and Iraqi officials estimate that the group still has thousands of fighters and tens of thousands of adherents dispersed across Iraq and Syria. Signs of the groups resurgence are already visible. In the first 10 months after Iraqs prime minister at the time, Haider al-Abadi, declared victory over the militants in his country, the group carried out 1,271 attacks there, according to Michael Knights of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 23) For Vice President Leni Robredo, the complaint filed against Chinese President Xi Jinping at the International Criminal Court (ICC) brings hope for the Philippines. "Natuwa ako noong nakita ko iyong ginawa, kasi parang dumating kasi tayo sa punto na parang nawawalan tayo ng pag-asa-sinasakop tayo nang sinasakop, tapos nawawalan tayo ng pag-asa, na wala tayong magagawa," Robredo said in a statement Saturday. [Translation: "I was happy with the filing because it seems we have reached a point where we have lost hope - we are being occupied and occupied, then we are losing hope, because we can't do anything."] She lamented that nothing has come out from the country's win at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague in July 2016. Its landmark ruling invalidated China's sweeping claims in the South China Sea and recognized the Philippines' sovereign right in areas within its 200-nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone. China has built artificial islands, prohibited Filipino fishermen from fishing and interfered in petroleum exploration in those areas, as it continues to reject the arbitral ruling. President Rodrigo Duterte, who has sought friendlier ties with China, refused to bring the decision up with China but promised to do so within his term. "At least ito (filing), mayroong mga naglakas ng loob na i-bring to the attention of authorities iyong pagsabi na mali na ba talaga iyong ginagawa o hindi," Robredo said. Translation: "At least with the filing, someone took the courage to bring to the attention of authorities to say if something wrong is being committed or not." Robredo thanked former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales for leading an effort to make Xi and other Chinese officials accountable for their actions in the West Philippine Sea. In a press briefing on Friday, del Rosario and Morales said they are hoping for the arrest of the Chinese officials, whom they said caused significant problems in the West Philippine Sea, including the building and militarization of artificial islands, damage to marine environment, and harassment of Filipino fishermen. READ: Aside from Xi's arrest, ICC complainants eye reparation for Filipino fishermen Morales likened the legal challenge to the biblical story of David who killed the giant named Goliath. "That he (Xi) is powerful does not deter anyone to file a case against him," she added. Robredo on Saturday said, "Parang dinugtungan ulit iyong pag-asa sa ating mga puso, na mayroon pa naman pala tayong lakas na labanan iyong isang malaking entity kagaya ng China." [Translation: "It brought hope to our hearts, that we still have the strength to fight a giant entity like China."] Malacanang, however, said the filing of the complaint, which the ICC calls a communication, may be a "futile exercise" because China is not among the 122 state parties of the international court. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo in a statement on Saturday also maintained that the Philippines was never part of the ICC although the government withdrew from the court on March 17, 2018 a move that took effect this year. The communication at the ICC was filed March 15, two days before the withdrawal took effect. The complainants stressed that the ICC can prosecute China because the Philippines was a state party when the supposed crimes were committed. READ: Ex-PH officials file ICC communication vs. Xi Jinping over actions in South China Sea Scroll down to skip the animation. In the first 3 months of 2017, there were ISIS attacks in Syria. Even as ISIS fought to maintain its shrinking territory two years ago, it continued to attack targets beyond its footprint. The Islamic State lost its last foothold in Syria on Saturday after years of fighting. But the terrorist group remains a serious, violent threat. Many of its top leaders are still alive. And it continues to carry out attacks, including one in January that killed 15 people, including four Americans, outside a shawarma restaurant in the city of Manbij, Syria. After a period of relative calm early last year, the United States-led coalition has ramped up strikes against ISIS in Syria since August. Strikes against ISIS by the U.S.-led coalition in Syria In April, Trump said: I want to bring our troops back home. Its time. We were very successful against ISIS. 1,000 strikes per month 500 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 As of Jan. 26 In April, Trump said: Strikes against ISIS by the U.S.-led coalition in Syria I want to bring our troops back home. Its time. We were very successful against ISIS. 1,000 strikes per month 500 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 As of Jan. 26 Strikes against ISIS by the U.S.-led coalition in Syria In April, Trump said: I want to bring our troops back home. Its time. We were very successful against ISIS. 1,000 strikes per month 500 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 As of Jan. 26 Strikes against ISIS by the U.S.-led coalition in Syria In April, Trump said: I want to bring our troops back home. Its time. We were very successful against ISIS. 1,000 strikes per month 500 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Note: 2019 data is as of Jan. 26 Strikes against ISIS by the U.S.-led coalition in Syria 500 1,000 strikes per month 2015 2016 2017 In April, Trump said: I want to bring our troops back home. Its time. We were very successful against ISIS. 2018 2019 Note: 2019 data is as of Jan. 26 By nearly every metric, the Islamic State is at its lowest point in the almost five years since it declared its caliphate. The group controls no territory in Iraq and Syria, attacks are down and the number of foreign fighters it continues to recruit is a fraction of what it was at its height. But analysts who have studied ISIS since its rise in Iraq more than 15 years ago point out that the group is far more powerful today than it was when American forces pulled out of Iraq in 2011. ISIS has adapted to its losses, returning to the guerilla tactics it used in the past, like targeted assassinations, bombings, ambushes and raids. The group still has tens of thousands of fighters in Iraq and Syria, according to United States Army General Joseph Votel. Territory that has been liberated remains insecure, as sleeper cells take root. Since last summer the group has carried out at least 250 attacks outside its controlled territories in Syria. ISIS attacks outside of its controlled territory (Since July 2018) Aleppo Circles are ISIS attacks Raqqah Deir al-Zour Mediterranean Sea SYRIA Homs Abu Kamal IRAQ Damascus Fatalities 50 10 1 No fatalities 50 miles Deraa ISIS attacks outside of its controlled territory (Since July 2018) Aleppo Circles are ISIS attacks Raqqah Deir al-Zour SYRIA Homs Abu Kamal IRAQ Damascus Fatalities 50 10 1 No fatalities 50 miles ISIS attacks outside of its controlled territory (Since July 2018) Circles are ISIS attacks Aleppo Raqqah Deir al-Zour SYRIA Homs Abu Kamal IRAQ Damascus Fatalities 50 10 1 No fatalities 50 miles ISIS attacks outside of its controlled territory Aleppo Raqqah Deir al-Zour SYRIA Homs Abu Kamal Circles are ISIS attacks since July 2018 IRAQ Damascus Fatalities from ISIS attacks 50 10 1 No fatalities 50 miles The shift toward hit-and-run tactics, which rely on methodical surveillance and clandestine networks to deliver targeted attacks like the one in Manbij, has allowed the group to remain effective in Syria despite its loss of territory. They realized you dont have to mount 6,000 attacks per month. You just have to kill the right 50 people each month, said Michael Knights, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. The groups acolytes continue to carry out attacks beyond the Middle East, claiming responsibility for a Roman Catholic church bombing in the Philippines on Jan. 27 that killed at least 20 people. Since 2017, ISIS and its followers have carried out attacks in at least 25 countries. Oliver Wyman partner Cliff Sheng appeared on CNBC TV to discuss how online brokers are playing a role to support mobile/online trading of offshore securities across all Chinese investors, but especially with millennials. Sheng said, The younger and educated population is clearly the mainstream of online/mobile stock trading. However, we observe the 'less techy' population are quickly shifting away from traditional brokerage model to online/mobile ones." To view the entire segment, please click here. Over Rs 2 crore seized by flying squad in Tamil Nadu Coimbatore pti-PTI Coimbatore, Mar 23: The election flying squad Saturday seized foreign currencies amounting to Rs 43.44 lakh from a motorcyclist here, and Rs 1.83 crore from a van in Salem, official sources said. During a vehicle-check in the area of Singanallur assembly constituency in Coimbatore, the squad stopped the two-wheeler of Jayaraman, and found in it 35,000 USD (Rs 24.29 lakh), Singapore dollars 22,000 (Rs 11.31 lakh) and 10,000 Euros (Rs 7.84 lakh), they said. Jagan Mohan Reddy and family are worth Rs 510 crore The currencies were handed over to the income tax authorities, and Jayaraman, working in a private firm and on his way to airport, produced some documents which were being verified, the sources said. Meanwhile in Salem, a flying squad seized Rs 1.83 crore from a van that was to be deposited in an ATM. Since there were no relevant documents produced by the occupants of the vehicle, the money was handed over to the sub-treasury, the sources said. PTI PM to inaugurate projects worth Rs. 18,000 cr today: Soon, you can reach Delhi from Dehradun in just 2.5 hrs Uttarakhand: Cash worth Rs 27 lakh seized near Dehradun, probe underway Dehradun oi-Vikas SV Dehradun, Mar 23: Amid strict vigilance ahead of the general elections, an Election Commission team has seized cash worth Rs 27 lakh from a car near Uttarakhand's capital Dehradun. The cash was recovered by the Static Surveillance Team of the ECI on Dehradun-Rishikesh highway in Laltappar, said reports. Dehradun-Rishikesh highway is one of the important roads in Uttarakhand as it is used both by pilgrims as well tourists heading for hill station Mussorie. The case would now be handed over to the Income Tax department. J&K: 2 drug peddlers arrested; Poppy, cannabis seized The Election Commission had earlier cautioned people to have valid documents if they are carrying cash above Rs 50,000 and new articles and gifts worth over Rs 10,000. Earlier this week, the Assam Rifles intercepted a person at Dimapur in Nagaland who was carrying an undisclosed cash amounting to Rs 57 lakh. This was the biggest seizure of cash in the Northeast region since the election dates were announced. Yesterday, police, flying squad of election commission and NIB-CID sleuths on Friday conducted surprise checks in several locations in Chennai and recovered 35kg of gold jewellery and 83kg of silver and recovery of 62 lakh unaccounted cash being smuggled by a man on an Omnie bus. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 10:58 [IST] 2 fliers test Covid-19 positive in Tamil Nadu: TN Govt says tests will only ascertain if Omicron variant 111 Tamil Nadu farmers to fight polls against PM from Varanasi India oi-PTI Chennai, Mar 23: After taking their protests to the national capital to highlight their demands, Tamil Nadu's farmers are gearing up for an electoral battle and will file 111 nominations from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is contesting. Tamil Nadu farmers' leader P Ayyakannu said Saturday that 111 farmers from the state will contest against PM Modi from Varanasi. Ayyakannu, who is also president of the National South Indian Rivers Inter-Linking Farmers Association, said the decision to contest the polls from Uttar Pradesh was to urge the BJP to include in their manifesto their demands, including "profitable prices for farm produce," would be fulfilled. Lok Sabha Election 2019: BJP first list out, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi Speaking to PTI, the leader, who spearheaded agitations in Delhi in 2017 for over 100 days, said the "moment they assure in their manifesto that our demands will be fulfilled, we will drop our decision to contest against Modi." In the event of that not happening, he said they would go ahead and contest against PM Modi. The decision to contest polls has the support of farmers everywhere and the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, Ayyakannu said. Asked why they were raising the demand with BJP alone and not other parties like the Congress to include it in their manifestos, he said the BJP was still the ruling party and PM Modi the Prime Minister. Parties like the DMK and the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam have assured full loan waiver, which is also one of the farmers'' demands, in their manifestos, he said. "We are not against the BJP or our PM Modi. Before assuming power, Modi ji promised fulfilling our demands and assured to double our income. Even today he is our Prime Minister and the BJP is the ruling party and that is why we are making this demand to them." The leader wondered as to what stopped the party from giving an assurance. Already, he said, he has booked train tickets for 300 farmers to go to Varanasi. Farmers from districts, including Tiruvannamalai and Tiruchirappalli, will reach Varanasi, he said. The BJP-led government at the centre had promised to fulfill their demands including profitable prices for farm produce, loan waiver from all banks including nationalised, and cooperative and Rs. 5,000 pension for farmers over 60, Ayyakannu said. "At the least, let the lone BJP MP from Tamil Nadu Pon Radhakrishnan commit that our promises will be honoured in the manifesto, we may think about reconsidering our decision," he said. In November 2018, farmers led by Ayyakannu had gone to Delhi with two "skulls," to take part in a kisan rally, saying it belonged to their colleagues who had allegedly committed suicide over debt. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 20:18 [IST] AAP doing the right thing by going solo? Here's what Delhiites have to say India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, Mar 22: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) may not be a force to reckon with in the national politics, but when it comes to Delhi, the Arvind Kejriwal-led party is one of the major contenders. The way Delhi votes is quite interesting. In the last general elections, all seven Lok Sabha seats were won by BJP. The very next in the assembly elections, AAP won 67 out of the 70 seats and formed a government in the national capital. This shows that Delhi voters are conscious and clear whom they want in the Centre and whom to govern the city. Was this a one-off phenomenon, or is this the way Delhi would continue to vote is something that only the time will tell. While there's a general acceptance that the AAP government has done good work - especially in primary education in Delhi schools, and in implementing regular water and electricity supply, there are some complaints and people do feel that the AAP government has not met all the promises yet. Soon after Arvind Kejriwal formed a government in the national capital after winning elections with a thumping majority in 2015, he spoke to several channels, and when asked about stark difference in the way people voted for assembly and general elections, the CM had said, "People know clearly that they want Modi in Centre and AAP in Delhi. They are clear about it." [Sheila Dikshit writes to Rahul Gandhi over alliance with AAP] But will this happen this time around? We spoke to some residents of Delhi about AAP pushing the Congress for an alliance, and finally deciding to go alone after Shiela Dikshit said a firm "No". Alok Paul, a Delhi resident, told OneIndia that the very move by the AAP to seek an alliance from Congress has dented its image. "AAP will lose it's support base further because the only reason people picked them at first place was there anti-corruption motto which after seeking an alliance with Congress will fade away...Kejriwal looks like losing his mind every time during Lok Sabha elections, he should have learned few lessons from last Lok Sabha results ...BJP will have an edge I believe if Congress ties up with AAP in Delhi," he said. [Sheila Dikshit's firm 'NO' to alliance with AAP] The AAP on March 19 shut the door on the alliance with Congress that had lately seemed to consider the idea again. "There will be no alliance with the Congress in Delhi," AAP leader Gopal Rai said. "Talks are still on and I think they'll go into an alliance. Chances are very dim with or without alliance for both Congress and AAP in Delhi," Paul further said. Bhupesh Bisht told OneIndia that may be a tie-up of Congress and AAP may help to thwart the BJP in Lok Sabha polls in the national capital. "I believe alliance will help beat BJP and currently that's the whole story in India. Also, I hope BJP wins the social media battle. I feel they are already ahead in the social media campaigning. But the core voter which doesn't use social media will think otherwise. Outer Delhi might give an edge to AAP, I still feel," he said. "Aana toh Modi ne hi hai (Modi will come to power)," said Rakesh Gulati, an IT professional, to OneIndia. "Some say there is no Modi wave, it is there. Modi is popular among the working class. Those who understand things he has done for the countries, will vote for him," he added. [16th Lok Sabha: This is Report card of four AAP MPs] Vishal Verma, a Delhi resident, said, "Allying with Congress is the only way AAP can stop the BJP from sweeping Delhi. Even then it would be difficult to stop, Delhi voter is very clear who he want in Delhi, and who can do good for India." "I feel BJP will sweep Delhi. Kejriwal has lost his credibility by siding with others. His main USP was that AAP is different from other parties. Now by showing desperation for alliance and hobnobbing with other parties, even he is just another politician. Where is the difference," said Gaurav, an IT professional. We also spoke to several people off the record in Delhi. Some opined that the strong support in Delhi is for Modi and not for the BJP, so to speak. Delhi's autowallahs were one of AAP's earliest and most loyal support bases, but now that support is not as strong as it was in 2015. The BJP won all seven 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Delhi with 46.40 percent vote share, while the Aam Aadmi Party stood second with 32.90 percent vote share. The Congress was a distant third (15.10 percent vote share). In the Delhi assembly elections 2015, AAP swept -- winning 67 of the 70 seats (54.3 percent vote share). The BJP won just three seats with 32.3% vote share, and the Congress failed to win a single seat (9.7% vote share). Advani replaced deliberately, Amit Shah no match for him: Shatrughan Sinha India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 23: Actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha on Saturday in a fresh salvo said he is "able and capable of answering back" to the party "in the same coin" even as he termed the sidelining of party stalwart LK Advani as "worrisome, painful". In a series of tweets, Sinha, said the replacing of Advani for the Gandhinagar seat by party chief Amit Shah "whose image or personality is no match nor a patch on him" was done "deliberately and intentionally" and "hasn't gone down well with the people". He said "no one can approve of such treatment to a father figure". Shiv Sena terms Advani as BJP's 'tallest leader', says 'forced to retire' "Sirji, instead of playing Rafale Baba and Chalis Chowkidar, which has already fallen flat on its face, it's high time and right time to take some corrective measures (if you still can) and go for damage control soon, sooner the better. It's worrisome, painful and according to some people, even shameful what your people have done was the most expected and awaited....orchestrating the departure of a most respected friend, philosopher, guide, father figure and ultimate leader of the party Shri. L.K.Advani, from the political arena/ election (sic)," Shatrughan Sinha said in a series of tweets. Former deputy PM LK Advani was not given a ticket for the upcoming polls, and in his place, BJP chose its party president Amit Shah to fight from the Gandhinagar constituency. Sinha was replaced and the decision to contest Ravi Shankar Prasad from the crucial Bihar seat was taken by the BJP's senior leadership at a meeting held at party's headquarters in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief Amit Shah. Sinha, a two-time MP from Patna Sahib, according to reports, is set to fight the Lok Sabha seat anyway, most likely as a Congress candidate. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 20:01 [IST] 'Vehicle was signalled to stop but it tried to flee': Amit Shah explains how the Nagaland firing unfolded Amit Shah says Rahul Gandhi supports JNU, questions armed forces India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P New Delhi, Mar 23: Continuing tirade against Overseas Congress Chief Sam Pitroda the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanded answers from Congress President Rahul Gandhi over his advisor's controversial statement on Pulwama attack. Amit Shah asked, "Congress President should explain it to the nation- do you consider such heinous attack (Pulwama attack) a routine incident?" "If a country shouldn't be held responsible for deeds of 7-8 people, does Congress believe that Pakistan government and military has a connection with terror attacks here? If there is a connection,who is the culprit, Congress party should answer, " asked Shah. He further said, "If terror attacks shouldn't be responded with surgical strikes and air strikes, and should be dealt with talks, is this Congress' policy to deal with terrorism. Congress President should respond on these." Amit Shah to contest Lok Sabha election from LK Advani's Gandhinagar "Who do you (Rahul Gandhi) support? Doubting the Indian Air Force is not right for the national president of any party. You stand in support when slogans are raised against the country in JNU, and call it the freedom of expression." As per Sam Pitroda, attacks like Pulwama happen all the time and that the air strike on Pakistan was not a right approach on India's part. He also stated that, India can't blame Pakistan for the attack and the Modi Government should reveal the casualties of Balakot Air Strike. In an exclusive interview to ANI, Pitroda said, "If you say 300 people were killed, we all need to know that ,all Indians need to know that. Then comes the global media which says nobody was killed, I look bad as an Indian citizen." Citing International media reports, Pitroda asked credibility of the number of casualties shared by the government. Advani's stature would not be affected by contesting or not contesting elections: Uma Bharti BJP appoints Uma Bharti as party's Vice-president after she 'opts out' of poll fray India pti-PTI New Delhi, Mar 23: The BJP on Saturday appointed Union minister Uma Bharti as the party's vice president. Bharti had decided not to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, saying that she was 'not interested'. The announcement was made by Union health minister JP Nadda while releasing BJP's another list of 48 candidates. Bharti, who represents Jhansi in the Lok Sabha, was brought in as a senior office bearer after she conveyed to the BJP leadership her wish to not contest the coming general elections. "I had announced this way back in 2016. If I had to fight, I would have contested from Jhansi. I can never change my constituency. People there are proud of me, and they consider me like their own daughter," news agency PTI quoted her as saying on Friday. The Union Minister, however, promised to campaign for the BJP until May. Union Minister Sushma Swaraj had also expressed her wish to refrain from contesting the Lok Sabha elections on grounds of ill-health. BJP releases 6th candidate list, fields Jayant Sinha from Hazaribagh The Hindutva leader has said she wants to go on a 18-month-long pilgrimage from May. 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 BJP to support Sumalatha in Mandya Lok Sabha seat India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 23: The Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday declared support to film actress Sumalatha, an Independent candidate from Mandya constituency in Karnataka's old Mysuru region considered a stronghold of JD(S). Sumalatha, wife of late actor M H Ambareesh, decided to contest as an independent after being denied a ticket by the Congress, which is now facing trouble in the district over conceding the seat to it's ruling coalition partner JD(S). BJP's Central Election Committee Secretary Jagat Prakash Nadda announced the partys decision to support Sumalatha, as he read out the list of candidates for various Lok Sabha seats across the country in Delhi. With Congress ruling out fielding Sumalatha for Mandya, saying it would go to JD(S), clamour had grown within BJP to induct her and field her as the candidate, as a section believed it would help the saffron party, which doesn't have much presence in the Vokkaliga bastion. However, BJP's state leadership was one in supporting her as an independent so she could continue to bank on the support of disgruntled Congress leaders in Mandya, who are upset about their party's decision to cede the seat to JD(S). Congress and JD(S) have been arch rivals in old Mysuru region, especially Mandya. Both parties forged an alliance to form the government after the 2018 assembly poll results and are fighting the Lok Sabah polls together, according to the coalition arrangement. Sumalatha's late husband Ambareesh had contested and won from Mandya in the past and enjoys popularity among the masses there. She had filed her nomination as an independent on Wednesday and enjoys the support of many within the Kannada film industry, with film stars Darshan and Yash among others by her side during campaigning. Sumalatha had also sought the support of senior BJP leader and former Karnataka Chief Minster S M Krishna, a prominent Vokkaliga leader from Mandya. Despite losing Mandya Lok Sabha seat in the bypolls in November 2018, BJP had made significant inroads, with party candidate Siddaramaiah, a political greenhorn and former civil servant securing 2,44,404 votes, its best performance there. BJP on Saturday also announced that Muniswamy S, a Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike corporator from Kadugudi, would be its candidate for the Kolar Lok Sabha seat. With the announcement for two seats on Saturday, BJP has so far announced candidates for 23 (including Mandya) out of total of 28 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The first list of 21 candidates was announced on Thursday. The five seats for which the party is yet announce its candidates are Koppal, Raichur, Bangalore South, Bangalore Rural and Chikkodi. Congress and JD(S) that have decided to fight the polls in alliance will contest for 20 and eight seats respectively and are yet to formally announce their list of candidates. Karnataka will go to the polls in two phases, 14 constituencies each, on April 18 and 23. OneIndia News (with PTI inputs) For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 22:45 [IST] Omicron 1st case in Maharashtra: What we know about it so, far? 12 facts Omicron in Maharashtra: State adds 2 more cases on Monday to take total tally to 10 Omicron in Maharashtra: 3-year-old among 7 new cases of Covid, taking total tally to 17 Congress to contest on 24 seats, NCP on 20 seats in Maharashtra India oi-Deepika S Mumbai, Mar 23: After months-long deliberation over the seat-sharing distribution in Maharashtra, the Congress and the NCP on Saturday announced their seat-sharing pact in Maharashtra for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls with the two parties agreeing to contest 26 and 22 seats respectively. Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar said 56 parties and organisations have come together to support the alliance to take on the BJP-Shiv Sena combine. From its share of seats, the Congress will give Palghar seat to the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi and another undeclared seat to Raju Shetti's Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana. Congress gives ticket to Sanatan sympathiser after opposing outfit From its 22 seats, the NCP will leave Hatkanangle seat for Shetti, who is the sitting MP from there, and give another to Independent MLA Ravi Rana's Yuva Swabhiman Party. Without naming any parties, Chavan and Pawar dubbed those who stayed away from the Congress-NCP alliance as the "B team of the BJP". The remarks were an apparent reference to Bharipa Bahujan Mahasangh leader Prakash Ambedkar, who refused to join hands with the alliance. Overcoming their strained ties and grandiose declarations of going solo, the BJP and the Shiv Sena had announced their seat-sharing pact for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls last month. The BJP will contest 25 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra and the Sena 23. OneIndia News (with PTI inputs) For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 19:46 [IST] Omicron 1st case in Maharashtra: What we know about it so, far? 12 facts Omicron in Maharashtra: State adds 2 more cases on Monday to take total tally to 10 Omicron in Maharashtra: 3-year-old among 7 new cases of Covid, taking total tally to 17 'Considering to quit': Maharashtra Congress chiefs audio clip goes viral India oi-Deepika S Mumbai, Mar 23: An audio tape surfaced on Saturday where Maharashtra Congress chief Ashok Chavan is purportedly heard saying that he wanted to resign as his views on candidate selection were not being heeded by the leadership. Chavan expressed displeasure over the selection of the candidate to contest from the Chandrapur Lok Sabha seat and said that no one in the Congress party is listening to him regarding the matter. When asked by reporters, Chavan said he was not aware of such a tape, but conceded that there was discontent in the party regarding the choice of Vinayak Bangade as Congress candidate for the Chandrapur Lok Sabha seat. Congress to contest on 24 seats, NCP on 20 seats in Maharashtra In the audio clip which went viral, a party worker named Rajurkar from Chandrapur is heard complaining about the choice of candidate when the party is sure to win in Chandrapur. Chavan is heard telling him to speak to Mukul Wasnik, the Congress's Central Election Committee head. "Nobody is listening to me and I am in a mood to resign," Chavan is purportedly heard saying further. He is also heard telling Rajurkar to ask Bangade not to contest. In the end he is heard asking Rajurkar to share Bangade's contact number. Meanwhile, the Congress and the NCP announced their coming together with 54 other parties and organisations in Maharashtra. The Congress and NCP will fight on 24 and 20 seats respectively. The remaining four will go to smaller parties including Raju Shetti's farmers' pressure group which was with the BJP in 2014. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 23:49 [IST] Agree with Indian govt on need to safeguard citizens' privacy: WhatsApp State vs national issues: Key lessons for the BJP to learn in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Haryana Deve Gowda to contest from Tumkuru, sitting MP to file nomination as Independent candidate India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Bengaluru, Mar 23: Former PM and JDS National president HD Deve Gowda finally decided contest from Tumkur Parliamentary constituency as JDS- Congress combined candidate. He will file his nomination on 25th Monday at 2 to 3 PM , at DC office, Tumkur. JDS and Congress leaders will join the occasion. According to reports, sitting MP Muddahanume Gowda to file nomination as Independent candidate from Tumkur. Muddahanumegowda's decision goes against the seat sharing arrangement reached between the Congress and JD(S), according to which Tumkur seat has gone to the regional party. On Deve Gowda contesting from Tumkuru, Muddahanumegowda told reporters, "What is coalition, what is coordination? I'm a sitting MP from here & I have delivered at the floor of the house. Why have you denied me the ticket? It is not correct." After Congress alleges huge bribery charge, Yeddyurappa says they are frustrated In the 2014 Indian General Election, he defeated the sitting Bharatiya Janata Party candidate G.S. Basavarajaih by 74,041 votes. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy said that Congress leaders must look into it. He added that his self-respect won't allow him to beg before anybody. Deve Gowda will face BJP's GS Basavaraju, a four time MP from Tumakuru. The constituency is dominated by Vokkaligas, but it has been vacillating between Congress and BJP since 1999. JD(S) has never won the seat. According to the seat sharing arrangement, of the total 28 seats, Congress will contest 20 and JD(S) 8. The JDS supremo has ceded Hassan seat that he had been representing to his grandson Prajwal Revanna. Dharwad building collapse: 7 officers suspended for dereliction of duty India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Dharwad, Mar 23: Urban Development department suspended seven officers for dereliction of duty in connection with 5-storey building collapse in Dhrwad which claimed 16 lives so far. Rescue operations continues for 5th day at building collapse site on Saturday. NDRF and other agencies have rescued total of 61 people and have extracted 16 bodies from the debris. According to reports, it is being suspected that at least seven people are still under the debris. Karnataka: Latest visuals from the site of #DharwadBuildingCollapse where rescue operations have been going on for more than 72 hours. The death toll has risen to 15. pic.twitter.com/Tk0p2GRCmH ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2019 Four owners of the under-construction building that collapsed surrendered to cops on Friday, three days after the tragedy. Former Karnataka minister and Congress leader from the region Vinay Kulkarni had said on Tuesday that one of the partners in the building was his relative and that whoever was involved should face action. Not for fashion but for people: Kumaraswamy on son, nephew contesting polls According to reports, one of the building owner Basavaraj blamed an engineer for the tragedy. Also, police arrested the engineer, Vivek Pawar, from a lodge in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. A case has been filed under section 304 (punishment for culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the IPC against the owners of the building and a special team will be constituted to investigate the case and arrest the culprits. How Indian agencies are hitting anti national Kashmir separatists in a sustained manner India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 23: The Indian agencies have taken some stringent action against the separatists of Kashmir in the past couple of weeks. Be it attaching the properties of the separatists or banning the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front, the action has been constant. The ED said that it was attaching the properties of the Kashmir separatists. The action is being taken following charges of money laundering. The move came just days after the National Investigation Agency carried out searches at premises of separatists, including Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, in connection with a case related to funding to terror and separatists groups in Jammu and Kashmir. The ED has identified properties that are based in Kashmir and New Delhi. In Delhi, the properties identified are at Vasant Kunj, ED sources tell OneIndia. NIA sources say that during the raids, they had seized incriminating material. JKLF was instrumental in killing of Kashmiri Pandits, Govt says while imposing ban JeI banned: Earlier this month, the Centre banned the Jamaat-e-Islami undertaker the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for anti national activities. The Jamaat-e-Islami had come under the radar in Jammu and Kashmir and nearly 150 of its members, including its president and spokesperson were taken into police custody recently in a major crackdown. This was the first major crackdown on the Jamaat, which has been termed as the parent political party of the Hizbul Mujahideen. The crackdown on the outfit is a significant one and it may be recalled that the National Investigation Agency had recently learnt that there was a major plot being hatched to carry out a wave of terror attacks in India ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The plot was unearthed after the NIA busted an Islamic State inspired module that went by the name Harkat-ul-Harb e Islam. The NIA learnt that two calls made by the alleged kingpin of the module were to Pakistan and Bangladesh. The NIA said that the module was being headed by Mufti Suhail, a resident of Amroha in Uttar Pradesh. Geelani penalised: In another development, the Enforcement Directorate penalised S A S Geelani after he was found in possession of foreign exchange. A penalty of Rs 14.40 lakh was levied on him and order of confiscation to the tune of nearly 6.8 lakh was issued. He is being investigated by the ED under the provisions of FEMA or Foreign Exchange Management Act. JKLF banned: The Yasin Malik-led Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) was banned on Friday for "promoting" secession of the militancy-hit state from the Union of India, officials said here. Banning the outfit under various provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act after a high-level meeting on security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said the Government of India (GoI) is of the opinion that the JKLF is "in close touch with militant outfits" and is supporting extremism and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir and elsewhere. They said the outfit claims "secession of a part of the Indian territory from the union and supports terrorist and separatist groups fighting for this purpose". Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said the JKLF has been banned as the government has a "policy of zero tolerance against terrorism". "The JKLF has been at the forefront of separatist activities in J&K and was involved in the killings of Kashmiri Pandits in 1989 leading to their exodus from the valley," he said. The home secretary said the government is committed to relentlessly pursuing a policy of curbing the activities of secessionist groups which are threat to the country. The other reason for banning the outfit was that the cadres of the JKLF were indulging in activities intended to disrupt the territorial integrity of India, the officials said. Malik is at present lodged in Kot Balwal jail in Jammu, and is likely to face trial in the three-decade-old case of kidnapping of Rubaya Sayeed, the daughter of then Home Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, and gunning down of four IAF personnel in Srinagar. IT dept dismisses 'Yeddyurappa diary' as 'forgery document' India pti-PTI Bengaluru, Mar 23: The Income Tax Department on Saturday dismissed as a "forgery document" and a "set of loose papers", the 'Yeddyurappa diary' about alleged bribe payment to top BJP brass that has created a political furore. The Congress, citing a media report, had Friday demanded a Lokpal probe into the charge that the state BJP chief had paid Rs 1,800 crore as bribe to the party top brass, which Yeddyurappa had dismissed as "atrocious and malicious." "Our conclusion after studying it was that it is a forgery document. It is a set of loose papers," principal chief Income Tax Commissioner of Karnataka-Goa Region B R Balakrishnan told reporters. Yeddyurappa Diary charges: Falsehood and forgeries can never influence polls, says Jailtey He said "There was an attempt to just make use of the diary to influence some other investigation, which we have not succumbed to. We have done our job in this case as well." The documents, which were photocopies, were seized from Karnataka water resource minister D K Shivakumar's residence during a raid carried out by the Income Tax department on August 2, 2017, he said. The papers were sent to the forensic science laboratory in Hyderabad, which returned it saying that they need the original papers, Balakrishnan added. He said that whatever came out in the magazine (Caravan) which broke the story was not part of the Income Tax department's seized material. Balakrishnan stated that in view of various Supreme Court decisions on admissible evidence, "this particular diary has no evidentiary value." Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala had said at a press conference in New Delhi that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should come forward and clarify on the matter. Yeddyurappa had said that "all issues raised by Congress leaders are irrelevant and false." "The issue is a closed chapter," he had said, adding that he was consulting legal experts on the issue and thinking about filing a defamation case. Meanwhile, the state BJP demanded that the Congress leaders apologise after Balakrishnan dubbed the alleged diary as loose sheets of papers and a forgery document. "Congress leaders who levelled false allegations against BJP and its leaders stand exposed in public. If Congress leaders have left any sensibility in them and respect for public sentiments, they should immediately apologise," the party said. Regarding the outcome of raids at a Karnataka minister's residence, (apparently referring to Shivakumar), Balakrishnan, without mentioning his name, said the process to confiscate the Benami property worth Rs 75 crore has been initiated. "The immediate consequence of a Benami transaction is that you lose the property. Prosecution is a different thing. We will think about that," Balakrishnan added. Balakrishnan, who called the press conference to give details about the IT department's achievements in the Karnataka-Goa region in the last one year, said the region showed collection of Rs 1.11 lakh crore. It carried out more than 300 surveys, resulting in detection of undisclosed income of Rs 911 crore, he said. PTI It is Jihad says Imran Khan on support for Kashmir issue Call for Jihad against Kashmiris will damage the cause: Imran Khan From land jihad to Islamic jihad: Why we must rejoice the return of illegal Bangladeshis No strikes: Jihad in Kerala is focused more on changing mindset of the local Muslim It is Jahalat not Jihad, villagers tell Pak terrorist who held boy captive India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa Srinagar, Mar 23: This is not "Jihad" (armed crusade) but "Jahalat" (benighted), a village elder pleaded to Pakistani terrorists in North Kashmir's Hajin area while asking them to release a 12-year-old boy who was held captive and subsequently killed on Thursday. Videos of the village elder of Mir Mohalla of Hajin surfaced on social media, showing him asking the two Lashker-e-Toiba terrorists - Ali, alias Furkan, and Hubaib - to release Atif Mir. The incident took place 33 km north of Srinagar, where the terrorists had taken shelter in the boy's house at gunpoint, police officials said on Friday. The terrorists wanted to sexually abuse his sister but the family had helped her escape. This infuriated them and they started beating up the family members, including Atif and his old uncle Hameed Mir, they said. Hearing their cries, other people in the locality informed the police. Plot to kill Modi: Naxals felt targeting PM's road shows was effective strategy After assessing the situation, the police started rescuing the family. They managed to secure the release of the parents and other family members till they were fired upon by the holed-up terrorists. "We knew that the boy and uncle were trapped inside. So, we asked the villagers to appeal to the terrorists to release them," a senior official said. Speaking in Kashmiri, the village head was the first to ask the terrorists to release the innocent boy. "Do whatever you want, but this is not Jihad but Jahalat. Please release the boy," he said. The police also made an appeal through Aqeqa Begum, the wife of Hameed, who was virtually breathless as she asked the terrorists to release her husband and nephew. Simultaneously, the police made a room intervention and brought Hameed out of the house. He told them that he was assaulted by the terrorists who hit him with iron rods and an AK rifle. "I tried my best to get my nephew out of this. I begged them but they remained unmoved," Hameed told the police. As pressure mounted on the terrorists, they killed the helpless Atif, the police said, adding that the security forces later mounted a heightened operation and killed both the Pakistanis. Ali had been active in the area for long and was involved in the killing of a BSF personnel and others, including the death of a man whose throat was slit in front of his son. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 6:22 [IST] JKLF was instrumental in killing of Kashmiri Pandits, Govt says while imposing ban India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 24: The JKLF was instrumental in the killing of Kashmiri Pandits post 1989, the Union Home Ministry said while imposing a ban on the Yasin Malik led outfit. The Government on Friday banned the Yasin Malik-led Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) on charges of promotion of secessionist activities in the state. In a separate action, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) confiscated USD 10,000 and imposed a penalty of Rs 14.4 lakh on hardline Hurriyat faction chief Syed Ali Shah Geelani in a foreign exchange rules violation case. Announcing the ban on JKLF (Y), Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said that the action under Unlawful Activities (Prevention Act) was in accordance with the government's policy of "zero tolerance against terrorism". On February 28, the government had banned Jamaat-e-Islami, saying it was in "close touch" with militant outfits and supporting "claims for secession" of the state from India. "Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front led by Yasin Malik has spearheaded the separatist ideology in the valley and it has been at the forefront of separatist activities and violence since 1988," he told reporters. Yasin Malik led JKLF banned under anti terror law The notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday said the JKLF has been indulging in activities, which are "prejudicial to internal security and public order and have the potential of disrupting the unity and integrity of the country". Citing the reasons for the ban, the notification said that the JKLF-Y was involved in anti-national and subversive activities and that it was in "close touch with militant outfits and is supporting extremism and militancy" in Jammu and Kashmir and elsewhere. "JKLF-Y is supporting and inciting claims for the secession of a part of the Indian territory from the Union and supporting terrorist and separatist groups fighting for this purpose by indulging in activities and articulations intended to disrupt the territorial integrity of India," the notification said. If the "unlawful activities of the JKLF-Y are not curbed and controlled immediately", it said, it is likely to "escalate its subversive activities, including an attempt to carve out a separate State" out of the Indian territory. It is also likely to "continue advocating the secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India while disputing the accession of the State with the Union", it said. Gauba said seven FIRs have been registered by state police against JKLF-Y. He also said JKLF-Y was also responsible for illegal funnelling of funds for fomenting terrorism. He also said that JKLF-Y was instrumental in the killing of Kashmiri Pandit's post-1989. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 5:51 [IST] As Mamata Banerjee takes swipe at Rahul Gandhi, Cong says such posturing for personal ambition will help BJP Rahul Gandhi in centre of Cong posters for Jaipur rally; call for him to become party chief again 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: No appeal in Samjauta Express blast case says Rajnath Singh India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, Mar 24: Union Home Minister, Rajnath Singh has said that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) will not challenge the acquittal of Swami Aseemanand in the Samjauta Express blast case. While speaking to Times Now, Singh said that the court has delivered its verdict and who wants to appeal can appeal. When he was asked if the prosecution would appeal against the verdict, he replied in the negative. Acquittal of Samjhauta blast accused shows India's 'insensitivity': Pak It makes no sense, why should the government file an appeal. There would not be any fresh probe in the case, Singh also said. The NIA had probed the matter. Only after that they filed the chargesheet. Now that the court judgment is out, one has to rely on that, he also said. The BJP, while in the opposition had maintained that Aseemanand and others had been falsely implicated in the case. The BJP had also accused the Congress of appeasement. It was done to appease the minorities, the BJP had also said. Year 2021: How many foreign trips did PM Narendra Modi go in this year? PM Modi is Anil Ambani's 'Chowkidar', not of the poor: Rahul Gandhi India oi-Vikas SV Purnia (Bihar), Mar 23: Scaling up the attack on Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday yet again tried to rake up the link between the Rafale deal and the Prime Minister having allegedly recommended industriallist Anil Ambani as an offset partner. Addressing a rally in Bihar's Purnia, Gandhi said PM Modi is a 'Chowkidar' (Watchman) of Anil Ambani and not the poor. 'BJP Chowkidars thieves': Rahul Gandhi targets PM Modi over Yeddyurappa row Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched the "Main bhi chowkidar" or "I am also a watchman" campaign ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Ever since coming to power, PM Modi has maintained that is the watchman of the country, in a bid to highlight that he would not let any corruption to take place under his regime. The Congress had retorted to this by coining a slogan, "chowkidar chor hai", or the nation's "watchman is a thief", which it began using late last year to refer to Modi in connection with allegations of irregularities in the awarding of a defence contract. "Pehle kehte the mujhe PM banao jo bhi chahte ho mil jaega, ab kehte hain ki hum sab chowkidaar. Chowkidaar gareebon ke ghar main milta hai ya ameeron ke? Vo hain chowkidaar, magar gareebo ke nahi, Anil Ambani ke chowkidaar hain. (Earlier he used to say elect me as PM, and everything owuld be done. Then he said we are all watchmen. Tell me, do poor people have watchmen, or the rich? He (PM Modi) is a watchman, but not of the poor, he is Anil Ambani's watchman)," Rahul said today. The Congress president further said that he is not afraid of the BJP or the RSS. Rahul Gandhi said he believes in truth and added that he is telling people the truth. "Wake up youth of Bihar, money is being robbed from your pockets daily," he added. Rahul Gandhi had on Friday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of not thinking about the welfare of watchmen, "behind whom you are hiding". In a Facebook post, Gandhi tagged a media report about 10,000 watchmen protesting against poor wages. If you say 'Chowkidar' people will respond with 'Chor Hai': Rahul Gandhi "At least, think about those behind whom you are hiding," Gandhi said in the post, attacking the Prime Minister who has launched a campaign 'Main bhi chowkidar' (I too am a watchman). Gandhi has been attacking the Prime Minister accusing him of "theft" in the Rafale deal and has used the slogan "chowkidar chor hai (watchman is thief)" to target him. Raviji, the same thing just happened to me: Shashi Tharoor to seek explanation from Twitter What is itat e-dwar the new e-filing portal of the IT appellate tribunal Social media companies free to do business, but should be accountable to Indian laws: Ravi Shankar Prasad Big step towards transparency: Prasad on first compliance report by Google, FB under new IT rules Rahul should explain how his wealth rose from 55 lakh to 9 crore in 10 years: BJP India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 23: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday asked Congress President Rahul Gandhi to explain increase in his wealth in last ten years. Addressing a press conference RS Prasad wondered what could be the source of income of 48-year-old leader other than being an elected lawmaker that his wealth in 2004 was Rs 55 Lakh which rose to Rs 9 crore in 2014. "Rahul Gandhi is a Member of Parliament, his source of income is salary, there's no other clear source. In 2004 election affidavit, he declared his wealth to be 55,38,123 it came to 2 cr in 2009 and to 9 cr in 2014; we would like to know how your asset grew to 9 cr from 55 lakh," Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters. PM Modi is Anil Ambani's 'Chowkidar', not of the poor: Rahul Gandhi Ravi Shankar Prasad has been given a Lok Sabha ticket from Patna Sahib parliamentary constituency, setting the stage for the most high profile clash in the April-May general election, as sitting lawmaker Shatrughan Sinha is likely to contest on a Congress ticket. Ravi Shankar Prasad is a Rajya Sabha member from Bihar. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 21:35 [IST] Shiv Sena terms Advani as BJP's 'tallest leader', says 'forced to retire' India pti-PTI Mumbai, Mar 23: The Shiv Sena on Saturday said L K Advani would remain the "tallest leader" of the BJP irrespective of his poll presence, two days after the party nominated its chief Amit Shah from Gandhinagar, a seat represented by the BJP patriarch. In an editorial in the party mouthpiece "Saamana", the Sena said Shah contesting in place of Advani is politically translated as the 'Bhishmacharya' of Indian politics being "forced" to retire. "Lal Krishna Advani is known as the 'Bhishmacharya' of Indian politics, but his name does not feature in the list of BJP's candidates for Lok Sabha polls, which is not surprising," the edit said. The Sena said the development underlined that the BJP's Advani era has come to an end. "Advani has been elected from Gujarat's Gandhinagar constituency six times. Now, Amit Shah will be contesting from that seat. This simply means Advani has been forced to retire," the editorial said. Marking a generational shift in the BJP, the party recently announced candidature of Shah, who will be contesting his debut parliamentary election, from Gandhinagar. ['Sharad Pawar, Mayawati not contesting indication of NDA win': Shiv Sena] Advani, 91, had served as Union home minister and deputy prime minister. He won the Gandhinagar seat six times. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the BJP to massive victory in 2014 and Shah was made the party president, Advani was made a member of Margdarshak Mandal (group of mentors). The Sena said, "Advani was one of the founding members of the BJP, who along with former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee steered the rath of the party ahead. "But today, Modi and Shah have taken the place of them (Vajpayee and Advani). An environment has already been created in the party to ensure that seniors do not get any responsibility this time," it stated. [Will Athawale gain from Shiv Sena-Somaiya tussle?] The Sena further said Advani has played a "long innings" in politics and would remain the "tallest leader" of the BJP. The Sena is contesting the next month's Lok Sabha elections in alliance with the BJP. The Sena said it didn't believe that a leader retains his top position only if he continues to be in active politics. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party also attacked the Congress which has said the Gandhinagar seat has been snatched from Advani. "The party (Congress) should not talk about insult to elders. The then prime minister P V Narasimha Rao, who had steered the Congress governments in difficult times, was insulted by the party even after his death," it said. The Sena also referred to the 2013 incident when Rahul Gandhi tore an ordinance (on protecting convicted lawmakers) in the presence of the then prime minister Manmohan Singh. "What happened with Sitaram Kesari (former Congress president who was succeeded by Sonia Gandhi)?....Therefore it does not suit the Congress to talk about respecting elders," the Sena said. Praising Advani, the Sena said he was responsible for expanding the BJP's footprint across the country. "Every shining sun has to set. The BJP could reach the top because of Advani's 'Rath yatra' in Ayodhya in 1990s. The BJP is reaping (dividends) because of Advani's toil," the Sena said. PTI MM NSK CK Sonia ji unwell, Rahul Gandhi should take over as Congress chief: Siddaramaiah as party preps up for CWC meet Sonia camp leaders not happy with Team Rahul's alliance strategy India oi-Hardeep Singh Bedi New Delhi, March 23: The Congress leaders of Sonia Gandhi camp are not happy with Team Rahul 's alliance strategy, say sources. These leaders, most of them in the last stage of their political career, are of the opinion that the Congress should have taken all possible steps to forge a grand alliance at the national level to defeat Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Team Rahul has wronged the equation of many regional parties, and hence not only leaders of Sonia camp but other opposition leaders like Lalu Prasad Yadav, Sharad Yadav, Chandrababu Naidu, and Farooq Abdullah are also depressed, say sources. It's not that Rahul Gandhi and now Congress general secretary, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, did not want to compromise slightly with regional parties. However, the results of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan reminded the Congress leadership is that defeating the BJP does not require regional parties. Confirm if Modi exchanged greetings with Imran Khan on Pakistan National Day: Congress to PMO Sources tell One India that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo carried forward a theory that the entire Opposition should fight Lok Sabha elections against Prime Minister Modi. His suggestion was that all the parties of the alliance should fight the Lok Sabha polls under the leadership of the strong regional party of every state. Pawar had also suggested that under this formula, all the prominent opposition leaders should address joint rallies across India to create an anti-Modi atmosphere. He even discussed this idea with Rahul Gandhi many times but failed to convince the Congress President. For, the Congress found itself out of alliance in many states under this formula. Uttar Pradesh is an example of it where the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) did not include the Congress in the alliance because Rahul was demanding more what was being offered. The Congress faced the humiliation of worst kind when the BSP and the SP gave three seats to another regional party, Rashtriya Lok Dal, and only left two seats - Amethi and Raebareli - for Rahul and Sonia in UP, that too as a goodwill gesture. Unsatisfied Congress announced that it would contest all 80 seats in UP. Another example is the Congress has also rejected the Left Front 's offer of seat sharing in West Bengal and said it would fight in all 42 Lok Sabha seats of the state. It is notable that recently Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee announced at "Save the Constitution" rally at Jantar Mantar that she was willing to work with anyone, including the Congress and the Left Front parties, to defeat the Narendra Modi government. That same day, Banerjee attended a meeting of Opposition leaders at Sharad Pawar's home to chalk out their joint strategy for the general election. Rahul was also present in the meeting. They decided to form a national pre-poll alliance and frame a common minimum programme. Sources say while Banerjee was not ready to give any respectable space to the Congress in her home state, she was very much interested in stitching an alliance between the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi. Sources tell One India that team Rahul did not join hands with the AAP in Delhi because it realized that doing so will strengthen a party that had ousted it from Delhi. AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal was literally begging for an alliance with the Congress in the name of defeating Modi. When he failed then he started accusing that Congress didn't want to defeat Modi. Is Jitin Prasada joining BJP? Congress rubbishes rumours as 'bullshit' "Kejriwal was seeking an alliance with the Congress mainly to prosper his party. In fact, the Congress has realised the agenda of the regional parties and intellectuals who wanted the grand old party to make all sorts of sacrifices in the name of dethroning Narendra Modi in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The Congress has understood that the regional parties want to strengthen themselves and hence is not ready to bow beyond its dignity," says a source. "Team Rahul has realised that strong regional parties will ultimately become a threat for the Congress in the long run instead for the BJP or Narendra Modi," adds the source. The source further says that the Congress also knows that the regional players want that if Rahul becomes Prime Minister then his remote control should be in their hands. "Team Rahul is not ready for this. The priority of the Congress is to become the only alternative of the BJP at the national and state levels. This was evident with what Rahul said while launching his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in active politics," says the source. In January, Rahul told media persons in Amethi that Priyanka and Jyotiraditya Scindia have been given the responsibility of not only 2019 Lok Sabha elections but also of forming a Congress government in UP. The source claims that though the Congress is fighting 2019 Lok Sabha polls but it is actually preparing for 2024 general elections. UP govt beat those seeking employment with sticks, remember this when BJP seeks votes: Rahul Gandhi UP: Stage collapses at a function in Sambhal; BJP's Avdesh Yadav, others injured India oi-Vikas SV Sambhal, Mar 23: A stage came crashing down during a 'Holi milan' function organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal. Several people were injured including BJP Kisan Morcha leader Avdesh Yadav. The stage is said to have collapsed due to weight of too many people who climbed the stage. The incident, which was caught on camera, occurred as several people took to the stage during the event. 'Holi milan' function was organised by the BJP to celebrate the festival of colours as well as to campaign for crucial UP. BJP MLA shot at during Holy festivities in UP, case registered Here is the video of the stage collapsing: #WATCH: Stage collapses during BJP's "holi milan" programme in Sambhal. BJP Kisan Morcha leader Avdesh Yadav & others injured in the incident. (22.03.2019) pic.twitter.com/cBnUvaf2gB ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 23, 2019 A leader was addressing the gathering while several people were initially clapping, but for some reason the people in the gathering decided to go on the stage. The stage was not able to bear the weight, and gave way. Injured were rushed to a nearby hospital. During the campaign for Uttar Pradesh assembly elections 2017, a portion of the stage built for the then CM Akhilesh Yadav and Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi in Allahabad had collapsed. Many leaders were on the stage at the time of the accident but no one was injured. Arun Jaitley framed bill on Art 370 nullification that can withstand legal challenge, says his wife After Arun Jaitley, none in BJP understands psyche of Punjab: Naresh Gujral Jaitley statue at Kotla: Angry Bedi asks DDCA to remove his name from stands, quits membership Yeddyurappa Diary charges: Falsehood and forgeries can never influence polls, says Jailtey India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 23: Union minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday hit out at Congress for "spreading falsehood" through a Caravan report that alleged bribes of Rs 1,800 crore were paid by former Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa to the BJP's top brass. In his blog titled "The Opposition's 'Caravan' Achieves a New Low - From Falsehood to Forgery", the minister also accused some media organisations of endorsing falsehoods. The documents, Jaitley said, appear to be a self-serving forgery of the Congress party and its leader. "Faced with odds on a daily basis, the Congress party needed to distract from the self-goal created by Sam Pitroda. He had questioned the Air Force's targeted attack at Balakot. The 'caravan' of falsehood was ready for a 'Rahul Bailout'," Jaitley wrote. The Congress on Friday sought an investigation by the Lokpal into a media report that alleged bribes of Rs 1,800 crore were paid to BJP's top brass by former Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa. The allegations were based on photocopies of BSY's purported diary which were submitted to the tax department. "Faced with odds on a daily basis, the Congress party needed to distract from the self-goal created by Sam Pitroda. He had questioned the Air Force's targeted attack at Balakot. The 'caravan' of falsehood was ready for a 'Rahul Bailout'," Jaitley wrote. Pitroda, the Indian Overseas Congress chief, Friday questioned the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack. He also sought more facts from the Modi government on Balakot air strikes last month while referring to international media reports questioning claims that over 300 terrorists were killed in the IAF action. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 20:43 [IST] April 12 is new Brexit deadline and PM May has her tasks cut out International oi-Shubham Ghosh London, March 23: The UK has saved its back for the time being. Leaders of the European Union have agreed on a plan to postpone the Article 50 process, delaying Brexit beyond March 29, the date when it was supposed to happen. The EU are pushing the deadline to April 12 without any conditions, and it is much shorter than the June 30 deadline that UK Prime Minister Theresa May had initially sought. The short extension of the deadline will give May a third opportunity to get her Brexit deal through in the UK Parliament. 'Cancel Brexit' petition gains momentum, fetches 1 million signs If the deal is passed, the EU will extend the deadline till May 22 to enable the UK to pass necessary legislation. However, if May's deal is rejected once again (it has already been defeated twice), then the UK will either exit the EU without a deal on April 12 or propose an alternative approach before that date. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 6:55 [IST] Final IS bastion in Syria has fallen, claim White House, Syrian Democratic Forces International oi-Shubham Ghosh Washington, March 23: In a major announcement, the White House has said that all territories held by the Islamic State (IS) in Syria have been eliminated. US President Donald Trump also called the extremist group "losers and barely breathing". "Just over two years ago, ISIS was considered one of the gravest threats to the future of the Middle East-and to the peace and security of the free world. Now, the self-declared caliphate has been obliterated off the map. Literally," the White House said in a tweet on Friday, March 22. Just over two years ago, ISIS was considered one of the gravest threats to the future of the Middle Eastand to the peace and security of the free world. Now, the self-declared caliphate has been obliterated off the map. Literally. 1600 Daily: https://t.co/A68ueVC88u pic.twitter.com/ip3xwESWKi The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 21, 2019 Meanwhile, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) also announced on Saturday, March 23, that the IS has lost its final stronghold in the war-ravaged nation, and that brought to an end the so-called caliphate declared by the outfit five years ago. The SDF also claimed to have fully liberated the town of Baghouz in Syria's eastern part. Syria urges UNSC to uphold resolutions on Golan Heights ISIS uses the internet better than almost anyone, but for all of those susceptible to ISIS propaganda, they are now being beaten badly at every level.... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 ....There is nothing to admire about them, they will always try to show a glimmer of vicious hope, but they are losers and barely breathing. Think about that before you destroy your lives and the lives of your family! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 "Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and 100% territorial defeat of ISIS. On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible," tweeted Mustafa Bali, head of the SDF press office. The IS had controlled huge chunks of territory stretching from western Syria to the outskirts of Baghdad, the capital of Iraq. The IS was on the retreat in Iraq and the final battle took place over the past many weeks around Baghouz on the banks of the Euphrates River. A coalition of Kurdish and Arab soldiers backed by the US-led western forces launched the final assault on the IS stronghold early last month. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 15:33 [IST] Syria urges UNSC to uphold resolutions on Golan Heights International pti-PTI United Nations, Mar 23: Syria on Friday asked the UN Security Council to uphold resolutions declaring that Israel withdraw from the Golan Heights after President Donald Trump said the United States would recognize Israel's annexation of the territory. Syrian Ambassador Bashar Jaafari urged the council to "take practical measures to ensure that the council is fulfilling ... its mandate in the implementation of its resolutions" concerning the Golan, in a letter seen by AFP. The council is scheduled to discuss the Golan on Wednesday during a meeting on renewing the mandate of the UN peacekeeping force deployed between Israel and Syria in the Golan, known as UNDOF. Trump broke with decades of US Middle East policy when he posted a Tweet on Thursday that said it was time to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan. In the letter, the Syrian ambassador also asked Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to reaffirm the UN position on Israel's occupation of the Golan, which it seized from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War. [Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights: Syria, Turkey, Russia blast Donald Trump] Asked about Trump's stance, UN spokesman Farhan Haq said UN policy was based on council resolutions and those of the General Assembly on the status of the Golan. "The resolutions are of course unchanged," said Haq. "Our policies have not changed in that regard." The United States backed Resolution 242 adopted in 1967, which calls on Israel to withdraw from territories it occupied in the Six-Day war and refers to the "inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by war". The council adopted another resolution in 1973 that reaffirmed the demand for a withdrawal and in 1981, backed a separate measure that rejected Israel's annexation of the Golan. After Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a group of Arab countries presented a resolution in 2017 condemning the decision to the General Assembly that won overwhelming support. UN diplomats said it was premature to speculate as to whether there would be a similar measure in the assembly. PTI Collapse of Kabul will go down as one of the greatest defeats in American history: Donald Trump US-Pak ties very good now, says Trump; surprise announcement, says Pak media International oi-Shubham Ghosh Washington, March 23: Their relationship might be far away from what it was during the Cold War days. Apart from the Afghanistan question, relationships between the US and Pakistan have also been affected by the issue of terrorism. Washington has even warned Islamabad recently that another terror attack on India will prove to be "extremely problematic" in the wake of the two neighbours' recent tension following the Pulwama attack. However, the maverick American president, Donald Trump, has also claimed earlier this week that relations between the US and Pakistan are "now very good". Surprise announcement says Pak media The surprising announcement from Trump came at the end of a press conference in the White House last Wednesday, March 20, when a journalist asked his opinion on the current situation between India and Pakistan, Pakistani daily Dawn reported. It was on the same day and hours earlier in the White House that a senior official of the Trump administration had warned Pakistan against more terror attacks. Further terror attack on India will be extremely problematic: US to Pakistan "Pakistan - we'll be meeting with Pakistan [leadership]. I think our relationship right now is very good with Pakistan," Trump was quoted as saying. Trump and Pakistan leadership have been seen speaking in not very favourably about each other in recent times. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 23, 2019, 16:29 [IST] Businessman in Kolkata shot at after his car was stopped by 18 men Protests erupt in West Bengal over BJP's Lok Sabha poll candidate selection Kolkata pti-PTI Kolkata, Mar 23: Protests erupted in various parts of West Bengal after the BJP, in its first list of 28 candidates, nominated its veterans and defectors from the ruling Trinamool Congress to take on Mamata Banerjee's party in the state. With old-timers being overlooked in favour of turncoats and newcomers, protestors gathered outside BJP offices in various parts of the state and, in some places, put up posters of rejected ticket aspirants outside the offices. BJP state vice-president Raj Kamal Pathak submitted his resignation after he was denied a party ticket. The saffron party, which bagged two Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2014 elections, is now targeting 23 of the state's 42 constituencies. Of its 28 candidates, nearly 25 are new faces, with a thrust on active political workers rather than greenhorns from the glamour world. Unlike the TMC which had 18 new faces and a mix of old-timers and greenhorns, hardcore politicians and personalities from the film industry, the BJP has put faith on its own leaders and defectors from other parties. Lok Sabha elections 2019: Grand alliance seals Bihar seat-sharing deal, RJD to contest on 20 "If after serving the party for three decades and holding the post of vice-president do not make me qualified to get a party ticket, it is better to resign from the post," Pathak said. The veteran BJP leader wanted to contest from Hooghly district, but he was overlooked in favour of a newcomer in the party. BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said efforts will be made to pacify the dissidents. "There can be resentment in some places, but everything can be sorted out through discussions," BJP state secretary Rahul Sinha said. This is not the first time the BJP has faced such protests. During the Kolkata Municipal Corporation polls in 2015, several ticket aspirants staged protest rallies outside the party office. Of the candidates, five had recently defected to the saffron party from the Trinamool Congress and one from the CPI(M). Union minister and BJP MP from Asansol Lok Sabha constituency Babul Supriyo has been renominated from the same seat and is pitted against actor Moon Moon Sen of the TMC. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh will contest from Medinipur seat against TMC leader Manas Bhunia. BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha will take on TMC heavyweight Sudip Bandopadhyay in Kolkata North Lok Sabha seat. State BJP vice-president and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's grandnephew, Chandra Kumar Bose will contest from Kolkata South Lok Sabha seat. Former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh, once known to be close to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, will be fighting against TMC candidate and actor Dipak Adhikary, popularly known as 'Dev', from Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency. The BJP has fielded former Trinamool Congress MLA Arjun Singh from Barrackpur Lok Sabha seat. Singh, who had recently joined the saffron party, has been pitted against TMC's Dinesh Trivedi. In Coochbebar Lok Sabha seat, the party has fielded former TMC youth leader Nishith Pramanik, while in Jadavpur, expelled TMC MP Anupam Hazra will contest against TMC's Mimi Chakraborty, an actor by profession. Another former TMC MP Soumitra Khan, who joined the BJP in January, has been given ticket from Bishnupur (SC) Lok Sabha seat. Former CPI(M) MLA Khagen Murmu, who too had switched over to the BJP, will contest from Malda North seat against TMC's Mausam Benazir Noor, who had recently defected to the party from the Congress, in Malda Uttar seat. Former TMC leader Sreerupa Mitra Chowdhury, who had contested elections on a TMC ticket from New Delhi, is the BJP candidate from the neighbouring Malda South seat. There are four women candidates and one Muslim nominee in the first list. The BJP in minority-dominated seats such as Malda South, Malda North and Basirhat did not field any candidate from the community. "We do not believe in giving tickets just on the basis of religion. For us winnability is the biggest criteria," said a state BJP leader. The Lok Sabha elections in the state will be held from April 11 till May 19 in seven phases. PTI Dr. Johan Auwerx to present at the 6th Aging Research for Drug Discovery Forum in Basel Friday, March 22, 2019 - Today Insilico Medicine, an artificial intelligence company developing the end-to-end drug discovery pipeline utilizing the next generation artificial intelligence, and the Scheibye-Knudsen Lab, University of Copenhagen, announce the presentation of Dr. Johan Auwerx, M.D., Ph.D., Professor at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale in Lausanne, Switzerland, at the 6th Aging Research, Drug Discovery, and AI Forum during the Basel Life Congress, September 10-12, 2019, Basel, Switzerland. Dr. Johan Auwerx will give a talk titled "A novel approach for NAD boosting" presenting a new scientific method to boost NAD+ content by stimulating its de novo biosynthesis. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD*) has recently evolved from a single oxidoreductase cofactor to being an essential cosubstrate for a wide range of regulatory proteins including the sirtuins, a family of NAD*-dependent protein deacylases. Beneficial effects of increased NAD+ levels and subsequently enhanced sirtuin activity on mitochondrial homeostasis, organismal metabolism and lifespan have now been well established across different species and thus stimulated the interest in approaches aiming to raise NAD+ content. "We show that the enzyme -amino--carboxymuconate--semialdehyde decarboxylase (ACMSD) plays a crucial role in the control of the intracellular NAD+ levels. By using both genetic and pharmacological tools we found that reduction of ACMSD activity boosts de novo NAD+ synthesis. Through its impact on cellular NAD+ levels and SIRT1 activity, ACMSD inhibition promotes mitochondrial function, but, most importantly, possesses a high therapeutic potential for preservation of hepatic and renal function from injury, given the restricted ACMSD expression to these tissues. As a case in point, we have developed potent and selective ACMSD inhibitors, which provided striking protection against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and acute kidney injury in mice," said Dr. Johan Auwerx, M.D., Ph.D., Professor at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale in Lausanne, Switzerland. "Over the last 5 years, the "Aging & Drug Discovery" and "AI for Healthcare" forums have been leading events at BaselLife, attracting hundreds of delegates from over 50 countries. This year, we are combining the 2 platforms into a 3 day-event titled "the 6th Aging, AI and Drug Discovery Forum" to explore the convergence of these 2 cutting edge disciplines. Under the program leadership of Professor Morten Scheibye-Knudsen and Dr. Alex Zhavoronkov, with distinguished scientists and industry experts in the field, we look forward to exploring breakthroughs for this great healthcare need for the planet," said Dr. Bhupinder Bhullar, Chair, Innovation Forum program committee, Basel Life 2019. "It is our great pleasure to present Professor Johan Auwerx, EPFL Lausanne, as a speaker at the Aging, Drug Discovery and Artificial Intelligence meeting in Basel. Professor Auwerx has been critical for our understanding of aging particularly focusing on NAD metabolism in aging. He is a global leader in the field and has contributed with many seminal discoveries linking loss of NAD to the aging process and has further described how we can target NAD to extend mammalian lifespan. It is therefore an unquestionable honor that Professor Auwerx has chosen to join our meeting and we look forward to his exciting talk," said Morten Scheibye-Knudsen, MD, Ph.D., University of Copenhagen. "The 6th annual Aging Research, Drug Discovery, and AI Forum at Basel Life will have a fresh program featuring some of the most prominent scientists and industry players in aging and longevity research covering the theory, applications and convergence of these three exciting areas," said Alex Zhavoronkov, Ph.D., Founder, and CEO of Insilico Medicine, Inc. The 6th Aging Research for Drug Discovery Forum Basel will bring together leaders in the aging, longevity, and drug discovery field, to describe the latest progress in the molecular, cellular and organismal basis of aging and the search for interventions. Furthermore, the forum will include opinion leaders in AI to discuss the latest advances of this technology in the biopharmaceutical sector and how this can be applied to interventions. This event intends to bridge academic and commercial research and foster collaborations that will result in practical solutions to one of humanity's most challenging problems: aging. The Forum will be held in Basel, Switzerland, September 10-12, 2019. ### Contact: Ola Popova ola@pharma.ai Website: http://insilico. com/ About Insilico Medicine, Inc Insilico Medicine is an artificial intelligence company headquartered in Rockville, with R&D and management resources in Belgium, Russia, UK, Taiwan, and Korea sourced through hackathons and competitions. The company and its scientists are dedicated to extending human productive longevity and transforming every step of the drug discovery and drug development process through excellence in biomarker discovery, drug development, digital medicine, and aging research. Insilico pioneered the applications of the generative adversarial networks (GANs) and reinforcement learning for generation of novel molecular structures for the diseases with a known target and with no known targets. In addition to working collaborations with the large pharmaceutical companies, the company is pursuing internal drug discovery programs in cancer, dermatological diseases, fibrosis, Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, ALS, diabetes, sarcopenia, and aging. Through a partnership with LifeExtension.com, the company launched a range of nutraceutical products compounded using the advanced bioinformatics techniques and deep learning approaches. It also provides a range of consumer-facing applications including Young.AI. In 2017, NVIDIA selected Insilico Medicine as one of the Top 5 AI companies in its potential for social impact. In 2018, the company was named one of the global top 100 AI companies by CB Insights. In 2018 it received the Frost & Sullivan 2018 North American Artificial Intelligence for Aging Research and Drug Development Award accompanied with the industry brief. Brief company video: https:/ / www. youtube. com/ watch?v= l62jlwgL3v8 . http://www. insilico. com About Basel Life 2019 Aging Research for Drug Discovery Forum description In this symposium, leaders in the aging, longevity, and drug discovery field will describe the latest progress in the molecular, cellular and organismal basis of aging and the search for interventions. Furthermore, the forum will include opinion leaders in AI to discuss the latest advances of this technology in the biopharmaceutical sector and how this can be applied to interventions. This event intends to bridge academic and commercial research and foster collaborations that will result in practical solutions to one of humanity's most challenging problems: aging. A panel of thought-leaders will give us their cutting edge reports on the latest progress in our quest to extend the healthy lifespan of everyone on the planet. Conference Official Website: https:/ / www. basellife. org/ 2019. html About EPFL EPFL is Europe's most cosmopolitan technical university. It welcomes students, professors and collaborators of more than 120 nationalities. EPFL has both a Swiss and international vocation and focuses on three missions: teaching, research and innovation. EPFL collaborates with an important network of partners, including other universities and colleges, secondary schools and gymnasiums, political circles and the general public, with the aim of having a real impact on society. EPFL official website: https:/ / www. epfl. ch/ en/ home/ About the Scheibye-Knudsen Laboratory The growing proportion of the elderly population represents an increasing socioeconomic challenge, not least because of age-associated diseases. It is therefore increasingly pertinent to find interventions for age-associated diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and cardiovascular diseases. Although the cause of aging is currently unknown accumulation of damage to our genome, the DNA, may be a contributing factor. In the Scheibye-Knudsen lab we try to understand the cellular and organismal consequences of DNA damage with the aim of developing interventions. We have discovered that DNA damage leads to changes in certain metabolites and that replenishment of these molecules may alter the rate of aging in model organisms. These findings suggest that normal aging and age-associated diseases may be malleable to similar interventions. The hope is to develop interventions that will allow everyone to live healthier, happier and more productive lives. Laboratory website: http://scheibye-knudsen. com/ About the University of Copenhagen With over 40,000 students and more than 9,000 employees, the University of Copenhagen is the largest institution of research and education in Denmark and among the highest ranked universities in Europe. The purpose of the University - to quote the University Statute - is to 'conduct research and provide further education to the highest academic level'. Approximately one hundred different institutes, departments, laboratories, centres, museums, etc., form the nucleus of the University. University Website: http://introduction. ku. dk/ presentation/ This story has been published on: 2019-03-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 23) One person died in a 10-vehicle collision in Lipa City, Batangas Saturday morning. Police said a cargo truck crashed into nine other vehicles when its brakes malfunctioned while traversing the President Jose P. Laurel Highway at around 9 a.m. The driver is now under police custody. The truck hit a tricycle, throwing a woman passenger on the ground. The Lipa City police said she was dragged by the truck, resulting in her death. Authorities are investigating the crash. We're sorry that the ministry you were looking for is no longer available on Oneplace.com. However, below are some great ministries that offer related content. Enjoy the inspiration, encouragement, and Biblical challenge from these Oneplace.com ministry partners! Pediatric Clinical Trials Market: Business Opportunities, Current Trends,Challenges in 2026| Syneos Health, IQVIA Holdings, Charles River Laboratories International, Covance, ICON, Pharmaceutical Product Development Pediatric Clinical Trials https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/397 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-pdf/397 Clinical trials are the gold standard and must for generating evidence-based data and knowledge in medicine. Clinical trials conducted on children (between age group of 0 to 18) for research and development of drugs or formation of new drugs are called as pediatric clinical trials. Pharmaceuticals and biotechnological industries and government regulatory bodies are collectively focused on improving research and development for pediatrics population. A new law in the U.S. and Europe was passed as pediatric regulation 2007 that required new adult drugs to be tested for use in children. This in turn is expected to lead to increasing number of pediatric clinical trials in the U.S. and worldwide.Request Sample Copy Of This Research Report:Robust product pipeline, increasing approval of new pediatric drugs and high outsourcing for drug development are major factors driving pediatric clinical trials market growth. According to Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Association (PHRMA) data in 2018, over 1,300 industry-sponsored pediatric clinical trials are underway across a variety of therapeutic areas, including diseases where there is significant unmet need such as infectious diseases, neurologic conditions, genetic disorders, and several forms of cancer. Similarly, 5 pediatric drugs received U.S. FDA approvals in 2018 and 4 and 7 in 2017 and 2015, respectively.Robust product pipeline, increasing approval of new pediatric drugs and high outsourcing for drug are factors driving growth of the marketIncreasing number of drugs under clinical stage of development in order to cater to unmet medical needs for pediatric patient population is expected to boost the market growth. According to Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Association (PHRMA) data in 2018, over 1,300 industry-sponsored pediatric clinical trials are underway across a variety of therapeutic areas, including diseases where there is significant unmet need such infectious diseases, neurologic conditions, genetic disorders, and several forms of cancer. Furthermore, robust product pipeline and increasing approval of new pediatric drugs is expected to boost the market growth.Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases in pediatric population in North America is expected to bolster the market growthNorth America is expected to hold dominant position in the global pediatric clinical trials market, owing to high prevalence of chronic diseases in pediatric population and increasing number of clinical trials conducted in the U.S. Pediatric population is one of the most vulnerable groups to various diseases such as polio, epilepsy, encephalitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, (COPD) and other respiratory diseases. Other diseases also include, cancer, diabetes, diarrhea, leukemia, anemia, chronic kidney disease, and other rare diseases that result in substantial disease burden worldwide. Increasing demand for new vaccines and other biologic products to tackle various infectious diseases such as measles, mumps, polio, tuberculosis, rubella, influenza, whooping cough, chickenpox, malaria, and streptococcal pharyngitis is also expected to boost the market growth.Key PlayersMajor players operating in the global pediatric clinical trials market include, Syneos Health Inc., IQVIA Holdings, Inc., Charles River Laboratories International Inc., Covance Inc., ICON plc., Pharmaceutical Product Development, LLC, Genentech (F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG), Pfizer, Inc., Bristol - Myers Squibb, GlaxoSmithKline plc., Sanofi S.A., Novartis AG, Johnson & Johnson, Merck & Co., Inc., Shire plc., and Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc.Download The PDF Brochure: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.Mr.ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email:sales@coherentmarketinsights.com Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Systems Market 2025 Global Analysis by Key Players - Carl Zeiss Meditec, IntraOp Medical, iCAD Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Systems Market https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/81872 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/enquiry_before_buying/81872 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/reports/intraoperative-radiation-therapy-systems-market-2019 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/request_for_discount/81872 www.upmarketresearch.com The Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Systems Market 2019 Report provides critical data of Production, Supply, Sales, Demand, Market Status and Industry Development Trend by 2025. 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The analytical studies are conducted ensuring client needs with a thorough understanding of market capacities in the real- time scenario.Key Reasons to Purchase:- To gain insightful analyses of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Systems Market and its commercial landscape.- Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by your competitors and leading organizations.- To understand the future outlook and prospects for Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Systems Market analysis and forecast 2019- 2025.If you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Avail Discount On this Report @Customization of the Report:Up Market Research provides free customization of reports as per your need. This report can be personalized to meet your requirements. Get in touch with our sales team, who will guarantee you to get a report that suits your necessities.About UpMarketResearch:The UpMarketResearch () is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well- defined we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: Alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: UpMarketResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United States. Multislice CT Scanners Global Industry Report - History, Present and Future 2025 Multislice CT Scanners Global Industry 2025 https://www.research2reports.com/report-medical-devices/multislice-ct-scanners-market/72346 https://www.research2reports.com/sample-report-medical-devices/multislice-ct-scanners-market/72346 https://www.research2reports.com/enquiry-before-buy-medical-devices/multislice-ct-scanners-market/72346 https://www.research2reports.com/category-medical-devices The global market size of Multislice CT Scanners is $XX million in 2017 with XX CAGR from 2013 to 2017, and it is expected to reach $XX million by the end of 2023 with a CAGR of XX% from 2018 to 2023.There are 3 key segments covered in this report: geography segment, end use/application segment and competitor segment.For geography segment, regional supply, application-wise and type-wise demand, major players, price is presented from 2013 to 2023. This report coverss following regions:*North America*South America*Asia & Pacific*Europe*MEA (Middle East and Africa)Access more details about this report at:The key countries in each region are taken into consideration as well, such as United States, China, Japan, India, Korea, ASEAN, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, CIS, and Brazil etc.For end use/application segment, this report focuses on the status and outlook for key applications. End users also can be listed.For competitor segment, the report includes global key players of Multislice CT Scanners as well as some small players. The compnaies include:PIE Medical Imaging, Agfa Healthcare, Analogic, Canon U.S.A., Inc., Biosound Esaote, Inc., GE Healthcare, Hologic, Inc., Philips Healthcare, Positron Corporation, Siemens Healthcare, Toshiba Medical S et al.Purchase a copy of this premium research report at:The information for each competitor includes:*Company Profile*Main Business Information*SWOT Analysis*Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin*Market ShareInquire further details about this report at:About Research 2 Reports:Research2Reports Market Research Company offers custom syndicated market research reports with market analysis, consulting services Market research reports by Research2Reports depends on survey analysis covers a magnitude of factors, industry research, market size, forecasts, financial growth, pricing trends, competitive insights of market segmentsContact Us:Organization: Research2reportsOffice No. 212/213, B Block 2nd Floor,Parmar Chambers,Sadhu Vaswani Road, Pune 411001Phone Number: 020 - 2612 6969Email: info@research2reports.comRead More Industry News:Research 2 Reports offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe.Office No. 212/213, B Block 2nd Floor,Parmar Chambers,Sadhu Vaswani Road, Pune 411001 Anticonvulsants Market To Reflect Significant Incremental Opportunity During 2018-2026 With Key Companies Abbott Laboratories, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc Anticonvulsants https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-pdf/2516 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/2516 Anticonvulsants are pharmaceutical agents used for the treatment of epileptic seizures. These are commonly known as anti-epileptic drugs or anti-seizure drugs. Epilepsy is a chronic central nervous system (neurological) disorder, wherein brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations, and sometimes loss of awareness. Anticonvulsant drugs are also used for the treatment of bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. Epilepsy can affect any individual at any age. According to Epilepsy Society of U.K. 2019 data, over 20 drugs are available for the treatment of epilepsy such as barbiturates, carboxamides, carbamates, and GABA analogs and around 25 generics are present in the market.Download Highly Informative PDF Brochure of This Business Report @Global Anticonvulsants Market: DriversThe anticonvulsants market size is expected to increase over the forecast period, owing to rising prevalence of epilepsy globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) January 2019 report, around 50 million people are affected by epilepsy worldwide. Moreover, it is estimated that around 2.4 million new cases of epilepsy are diagnosed every year, globally.Increasing approval of anticonvulsant drugs from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are highly contributing to increase in the anticonvulsants market revenue. There are around 24 anticonvulsants drugs approved by the FDA. In 2018, FDA approved the first drug containing an active ingredient derived from marijuana to treat rare, severe forms of epilepsy such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.Global Anticonvulsants Market: Regional AnalysisNorth America is expected to hold dominant position in the anticonvulsants market during the forecast period, owing to increasing demand for treatment of epilepsy. For instance, according to the WHO 2019 report, in up to 70% of people living with epilepsy globally, seizure is controlled with appropriate diagnosis and use of anti-epileptic medicines. Low-cost treatment is available, with daily medication that costs US$ 5 per year.Asia Pacific anticonvulsants market revenue is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period, owing to increasing prevalence of epilepsy in economies such as India, China, and Japan. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information 2015 report, India has huge patient base of 12 million people affected by epilepsy.Global Anticonvulsants Market: Competitive LandscapeKey players operating in the global anticonvulsants market include Abbott Laboratories, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., Sanofi S.A., UCB Group, Shire Plc., GlaxoSmithKline Plc., Cephalon Inc., and Astrazeneca Plc.Request Customization @Global Anticonvulsants Market: Regional AnalysisNorth America is expected to hold dominant position in the anticonvulsants market during the forecast period, owing to increasing demand for treatment of epilepsy. For instance, according to the WHO 2019 report, in up to 70% of people living with epilepsy globally, seizure is controlled with appropriate diagnosis and use of anti-epileptic medicines. Low-cost treatment is available, with daily medication that costs US$ 5 per year.Asia Pacific anticonvulsants market revenue is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period, owing to increasing prevalence of epilepsy in economies such as India, China, and Japan. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information 2015 report, India has huge patient base of 12 million people affected by epilepsy.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 Digital Transaction Management Market 2019: By Key Players Analysis DocuSign Inc. (U.S.), Insight Enterprises, Inc. (U.S.), Namirial Spa (Italy), ThinkSmart (U.S.), AssureSign LLC (U.S.), EuroNoVate (Switzerland), ZorroSign (U.S.) Digital Transaction Management https://www.reporthive.com/enquiry.php?id=1776781&req_type=smpl&utm_source=SP https://www.reporthive.com/enquiry.php?id=1776781&req_type=purch https://www.reporthive.com Digital Transaction Management Market report provides comprehensive analysis of the industry, with market share, size, future scope, demand and rising opportunity. The global Digital Transaction Management market is observed across foremost global regions. It also covers the all-embracing aspects of the businesses such as sales strategies, planning models to get better insights for the businesses.Digital transaction is the emerging trend in digital market. It is a cloud service which manages document based transactions digitally. With growing advancement in technology, organizations are also rapidly growing and is adopting automation process to increase their operation frequency and efficiency. E-signature, authentication, document archival, workflow automation among others are some of the well-known solution in digital transaction management.Download Sample PDF copy of this report @The key players covered in this study DocuSign Inc. (U.S.) Insight Enterprises Inc. (U.S.) Namirial Spa (Italy) ThinkSmart (U.S.) AssureSign LLC (U.S.) EuroNoVate (Switzerland) ZorroSign (U.S.) eSignLive (U.S.) eORiginal (U.S.) and more.Key Findings The global digital transaction market is expected to reach USD 5,552.91 Million by 2023. By solution, e-signature sub segment in digital transaction market accounts for the largest market share and is growing with approximately 26.47% CAGR during forecast period. By component, hardware sub segment holds the largest market growing with approximately 23.78% CAGR by the end of forecast period. By end user, commercial sub segment holds the largest market share and is growing with approximately 28.58% CAGR by the end of forecast period. Geographically, North America region has been projected to hold the largest market share in global digital transaction market followed by Europe region, while Asia Pacific ranks third in the digital transaction market.The reports also cover country level analysis: North Americao USo Canadao Mexico Europeo UKo Germanyo Franceo Rest of the Europe Asia Pacifico Chinao Indiao Japano Rest of Asia-Pacific Rest of the WorldEnquire before purchase@:Table of Contents1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2 MARKET DYNAMICS2.1 Market Growth Factors2.1.1 High adoption of cloud services by banking sector2.1.2 Growing advancement in digital technology2.2 Market Restraints2.2.1 Cyber threats2.2.2 Lack of technical expertise and trust among consumers2.3 Digital Transaction Management2.3.1 Digital Transaction Process2.3.2 Digital Signature Process2.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis3 GLOBAL DIGITAL TRANSACTION MANAGEMENT MARKET, BY SOLUTIONS3.1 Introduction3.2 Market by Sub-Segment3.2.1 E-Signature3.2.2 Authentication3.2.3 Document Archival3.2.4 Workflow Automation4 GLOBAL DIGITAL TRANSACTION MANAGEMENT MARKET, BY COMPONENT.7 COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE7.1 Introduction7.2 Market Position Analysis7.3 Company Profiles7.3.1 DocuSign Inc.7.3.1.1 Company Overview7.3.1.2 Product/Services Offering7.3.1.3 Business Strategy7.3.1.4 SWOT Analysis7.3.2 Insight Enterprise Inc.7.3.2.1 Company Overview7.3.2.2 Product/Services Offering7.3.2.3 Business Strategy7.3.2.4 SWOT Analysis7.3.3 Namirial SpaTOC continued!About Us:Report Hive Research delivers strategic market research reports, statistical survey, industry analysis & forecast data on products & services, markets and companies. Our clientele ranges mix of global business leaders, government organizations, SMEs, Individual & Start-ups, top management consulting firms, universities etc. Our library of 700,000 + reports targets high growth emerging markets in the USA, Europe Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific covering industries like IT, Telecom, Semiconductor, Chemical, Healthcare, Pharmaceutical, Energy & Power, Manufacturing, Automotive & Transportation, Food & Beverages etc. This large collection of insightful reports assists clients to stay ahead of time & competition. 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 6014Chicago, IL - 60611United StatesContact UsMike RossMarketing Managersales@reporthive.comPhone Number: +1-312 604 7084 Latest Interventional Coronary Guidewire Market Report by Growth, Size, Share and Forecast Research Till2026 - Key Players are Boston Scientific, Abbott Laboratories, Medtronic, Philips, Terumo, ETC. Latest Interventional Coronary Guidewire Market https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/82076 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/enquiry_before_buying/82076 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/82076 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/request_for_discount/82076 www.upmarketresearch.com Up Market Research published a detailed Reports Global Interventional Coronary Guidewire Market Size Status and Forecast 2026. 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The report contains basic, secondary and advanced information pertaining to the Interventional Coronary Guidewire Market global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 20192026.The scope of the report extends from market scenarios to comparative pricing between major players, cost and profit of the specified market regions. The numerical data is backed up by statistical tools such as SWOT analysis, BCG matrix, SCOT analysis, PESTLE analysis and so on. The statistics are represented in graphical format for a clear understanding on facts and figures.For More Information On This Report, Please VisitThe 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 Interventional Coronary Guidewire Market analysis & forecast 2019-2026 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.Global Interventional Coronary Guidewire Market Segmentation Includes:Region-wise Analysis covers:North AmericaEuropeChinaJapanIndiaSoutheast AsiaOther regions (Central & South America, Middle East & Africa)The Major players include:Boston ScientificAbbott LaboratoriesMedtronicPhilipsTerumoCardinal HealthMerit Medical SystemsCook MedicalAsahi InteccTeleflexCardiovascular SystemsGalt MedicalC.R. BardAngiodynamicsACIST Medical SystemsInfraredxTryton MedicalB. 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The analytical studies are conducted ensuring client needs with a thorough understanding of market capacities in the real- time scenario.Key Reasons to Purchase:- To gain insightful analysis of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Global Interventional Coronary Guidewire Market Analysis and Forecast 2019-2026 and its commercial landscape.- Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by your competitors and leading organizations.- To understand the future outlook and prospects for Interventional Coronary Guidewire Market analysis and forecast 2019-2026.Avail Discount On this Report @Customization of the Report:UpMarketResearch provides free customization of reports as per your need. This report can be personalized to meet your requirements. Get in touch with our sales team, who will guarantee you to get a report that suits your necessities.About UpMarketResearch:The UpMarketResearch () is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well- defined we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: Alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: UpMarketResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United States. Portland Trail Blazers All-Star Damian Lillard joined ESPNs The Jump on Friday to discuss his Oakland Raiders, being one of the best players in the NBA, what would make a successful postseason and more in the video above. Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox The Oregon Ducks hope to make a big recruiting splash during this years spring game on April 20, hosting some of the nations top targets. This weekend, one of the nations best safeties locked in his visit plans, as 247Sports four-star safety Myles Slusher confirmed their initial report that he is headed to Eugene in mid-April for a visit: However, that development was far from a surprise. Earlier in the week, the 6-foot, 181-pound defensive back, out of Broken Arrow High School (Broken Arrow, Oklahoma), cut his list to a top 10, and Oregon made the cut. Others on the list included Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia Tech, LSU, Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma State, TCU and Texas A&M. All Glory To God! My Official Top 10 #Blessed pic.twitter.com/OWjABjJp7p Myles Slusher (@mylesslusher) March 22, 2019 Oregon has three commitments in the class of 2020 thus far - consensus four-star athlete/safety Avantae Williams, three-star linebacker Peter Latu and three-star tight end Seth Figgins. But the Ducks expect a few additions before the end of spring practices. Topping last years first-ever No. 1 finish in the Pac-12 Conference, as well as a nationally-ranked top-10 class, may be a tall order. However, Mario Cristobal is off a solid start, generating interest from the nations top players from all around the country. -- Andrew Nemec Oregon State University President Ed Ray announced Friday he will retire in 2020 after 17 years in office. Rays five-year contract expires that year and he will be 75. Oregon State is the largest university in the state with more than 32,000 students. Enrollment stood at less than 19,000 when Ray started at OSU in 2003. Ray has pushed the university toward geographic diversification. It opened a satellite campus in Bend, built up its marine science center in Newport and recently opened an office in Portland. He led a capital campaign that raised more than $1.1 billion. Its a difficult era of financial constraints at Oregons public colleges. They were flat-funded in Gov. Kate Browns proposed 2019-2021 budget. That would be effectively a significant budget cut given increasing public employee pension costs and other expenses. University leaders say that means they will likely have to look to its students and donors to make up the difference. In a stirring, sometimes fiery speech at an OSU alumni lunch in Portland in February, Ray blasted what he called the chronic underfunding of higher education in Oregon and the endless tuition hikes that result. Students and their families face unrelenting financial pressure. Worse, a whole segment of the American population is priced out of higher education, he said, which threatens to create a permanent underclass. Ray also rang the alarm bell over students mental health, which he said should be considered a major public health issue. In a 2016 survey of OSU students, 25 percent reported feeling significant anxiety and 32 percent reported some symptoms of depression. Even more alarming, 11 percent said they had experienced suicidal thoughts, 4 percent reported having a suicide plan and 1 percent had tried to kill themselves. Rays 17 years will make him the longest-tenured public university president in the state. None of Rays peers in Oregon have been in office longer than four years. He oversees more than 7,000 employees. Ed is just a steady, capable guy, said Duncan Wyse, president of the Oregon Business Council and commissioner of the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Committee. In the midst of a lot of change and turmoil, he recognized his job was to run that university and make it better. Ed has been one of the great college presidents in my lifetime. I have had the great honor and joy to serve as Oregon State Universitys president, Ray said in a statement. The timing for this transition is excellent. We have just adopted a new chapter in our strategic plan that will guide the university for the next five years. Portland school district leaders are playing up what they say will be the central theme of their budget-writing for next school year: Cuts. In part to make a statement about how badly they want more state funding, Superintendent Guadalupe Guerrero and school board members said they anticipate cutting four days from the school year and putting employees out on furlough to balance the budget. Portland Public Schools current budget is $655 million and, even if lawmakers approve spending as much on K-12 schools as Gov. Kate Brown proposed, the district expects it would have roughly $690 million, or 5.3 percent more, to spend in 2019-20, said spokesman Harry Esteve. The modest increase would be due in part to a decline in students learning English as a second language and a similar drop in students experiencing poverty. Oregon schools are funded on a per-pupil basis and receive extra money for each English learner and student from a household below the poverty line. At the same time, employee compensation costs will rise next year due to union agreements for cost-of-living raises and the states soaring public employee pension rates. The budget projection would require, district officials said, $4 million in cuts, which would amount to 70 teaching positions or four furlough days across the district. When board members asked for clarification on whether that $4 million was an annual or biennial figure, Chief Financial Officer Cynthia Le said shed have to take a second look at the number. The district has since revised the impact to equal 35 teaching positions, or two furlough days. Guerrero signaled he would prefer the furlough days. That approach, he argues, would prevent the shuttering of whole programs and help the district adhere to its mission of equity. This is never a strategy any superintendent wants to put forward as a recommendation, but we want to continue to be advocates, he said during Tuesdays board meeting. Were wanting to make sure folks are aware of the scale of the negative impact of what we want to accomplish here. Board member Paul Anthony said all of the parents, students and teachers hes conferred with also prefer the furlough approach to cutting teachers. The budget shortfall would also increase class sizes, adding about one student to each teachers roster. The district-wide average teacher-student ratio is 21 to 1, the second lowest among the states largest school districts. Board member Julia Brim-Edwards told district finance officials shes never heard from a parent whose child was in a class of 20. Deputy Superintendent Claire Hertz explained that some programs skew the results. For example, she said, special education classes with 10 students bring down the average. Teachers also dont teach at all times when class is in session. In high schools, for example, one quarter of teachers have a planning period at any given time. To save money, the district will also blend fourth- and fifth-grade classes in 18 more schools. Deputy Superintendent Yvonne Curtis said she believes three or four schools currently blend those classes but didnt have figures readily available. The district would tap into $7 million in reserves to minimize the impact of state revenues that officials say fail to keep pace with rising salary, transportation and pension costs. The central office would cut $9.1 million or 2.5 percent of its total budget by keeping both instructional and operational vacancies open and reducing contracts and services, Hertz said. District officials did not say where some of the proposed staffing cuts would be focused. But among the casualties is the Benson High architecture program, which district officials say has suffered from declining enrollment in recent years and thus will end at the close of this school year. Esteve said nine seniors and nine juniors are currently enrolled in the program, calling it a significant decrease from previous years. While we understand it is disappointing for these students, they will be able to choose among nine other CTE programs at Benson, including ones that have some elements of architecture within them. Our hope is that we can resume the program in future years, Esteve said in a statement. Benson architecture students are planning a Friday walkout to protest the program cut. Board Chair Rita Moore hinted that shed like to see a corporate tax hike to compensate for declining state funding for schools. Gov. Kate Brown and Democratic lawmakers are gunning for just that: A $1 billion a year tax hike on businesses that would be allocated to K-12 schools to decrease class sizes, add career-technical courses, add counselors and mental health supports, improve teacher training and more. Moore brought up the fact that previous shortfalls were due in large part to economic recessions, which depress income tax revenues and other sources of funding. We are in the middle of a boom, she said. We are busted in the middle of a boom, a boom of historic proportions with unprecedented corporate profitability. The problem is the state is not capturing any of that with the tax structure we have. CORVALLIS A former Oregon State University graduate student previously convicted of a hate crime is facing a new, unrelated charge. The Corvallis Gazette-Times reported Wednesday that 28-year-old Andrew Joseph Oswalt has been charged with misdemeanor criminal mischief in the second degree. Oswalt is accused of damaging a sign in July 2017 and is scheduled to be arraigned March 25. Oswalt was found guilty in November of first-degree intimidation and third-degree criminal mischief for placing racist bumper stickers on cars. The newspaper reports that Oswalt served 30 days in jail and was released in January before re-enrolling at the university. An attorney representing Oswalt has filed a notice of intent to appeal the initial conviction, but would not comment on why he was initially denied a defense attorney by the court in February. -- The Associated Press Over the past month, The Oregonian/OregonLive published a groundbreaking series by investigative reporter Rob Davis that examined Oregons lax system of campaign finance. Davis findings were stunning. While Oregon is the 27th largest state by population, were No. 1 in corporate giving per capita. Oregon legislators ranked first in the nation by average amount received from the timber industry, third for contributions by drug companies and fourth for tobacco money. The series, Polluted by Money, reported that Oregon is an outlier, one of just five states with no limits at all on campaign contributions. And Davis meticulously demonstrated how the effects of our loose system played out in weak environmental laws and regulators with an easy tolerance of industry missteps. To do so, he and his editor, Steve Suo, examined millions of contribution records in all 50 states from the National Institute on Money in Politics, plus more than 100,000 expense records filed by campaigns in Oregon. They posted a database online with every Oregon legislators money sources. It was astonishing to us how consistently the Oregon lawmakers ranked alongside those in California, Texas and other huge states for the amount of corporate money they received, Suo said. Davis work wasnt easy, and it wasnt cheap. He devoted 18 months looking deeply into Oregons campaign finance system and compared our laws to those of other states. He interviewed more than 200 lawmakers, residents, regulators, lobbyists and donors. He crowdsourced responses from nearly 500 Oregonians about their perceptions of institutions that are supposed to protect them from pollution. He obtained tens of thousands of records from legislators and regulatory agencies. He also involved readers in shaping his work, asking on our Facebook page whether Oregonians had moved or changed their routines to avoid pollution. The responses pointed us to The Dalles, featured in the second part of the series. The Oregonian/OregonLive is committed to such important investigative work public interest journalism that is at the heart of what local newsrooms are known for. This significant investment in reporting resources is what distinguishes local news organizations focused on what their communities care about most. Based on reader reaction, Oregonians care deeply about having a clean and transparent political system. Hundreds of Oregonians have called and written to offer thanks for our story and to urge us to keep digging, Davis said. People are outraged to learn how state leaders are prioritizing corporate profits over the air they breathe and the water they drink. Some of the best stories are hiding in plain sight. Weve known about, and covered, the states wide-open campaign contribution system. We chronicled the millions spent on elections here. Weve written extensively about the Department of Environmental Qualitys tepid response to environmental problems and its kid-glove treatment of polluters. Many insiders and politicians likely knew how campaign cash had transformed politics here, but until our series the average citizen may not have realized that Oregon had become one of the biggest money states in American politics. Oregon is No. 1 despite the fact the state is No. 27 by population. Davis also focused on the effect the millions of dollars had on the quality of life here. He detailed how the money helped legislators personally. He quoted politicians acknowledging the optics looked bad and the influence of donors hovered constantly. He made the case that the millions of dollars benefited industry, not average Oregonians. An experienced watchdog reporter, Davis decided to tackle campaign financing after a year or so of writing about the environment for The Oregonian/OregonLive. He joined the newsroom in 2013 after working at the Voice of San Diego, a nonprofit dedicated to investigative journalism. At every turn, Davis found Oregon lagged other states in enacting and enforcing tough environmental standards. In 2014, Davis wrote a series of stories exposing dangers related to oil trains increasingly traveling through the state. He reported that lawmakers in California and Washington were addressing the public safety and environmental threats of oil transport, but Oregon was not. Bills introduced to address the types of risks he helped expose quickly passed in those other states. In Oregon, an oil train safety bill is again up for debate this year in Salem for the fifth time. In 2015, he revealed that Oregon had become a dumping ground for diesel trucks that were being regulated out of California. Bills to curtail that practice have repeatedly died. In 2016, a furor erupted in Portland over the discovery of two cadmium pollution hot spots connected to industry. Agencies had known about toxic air in Portland for years, and DEQ had created a work group to look into the problem. Davis looked into it and found the effort was timid, leaderless and consistently influenced by industry interests. What explained this easy tolerance of pollution and environmental dangers? For him, every expose chipped away at Oregons reputation for protecting the environment. Digging for the truth, he began the reporting that resulted in Polluted by Money, the four-part series that ended last week. Teresa Mahoney, leader of our video team, produced the videos; Beth Nakamura captured the photography; and data visualization specialist Mark Friesen developed the online presentation. Investigative reporting, and journalism in the public interest, is at the core of our mission. The Oregonian/OregonLive serves as an important check and balance on the power of government and industry. To that end, we recently launched a Public Interest and Accountability team to focus some of our key beats, such as state government, City Hall and schools, on the issues that matter most to our readers. We are committed to serving the community with accurate, fair, and thorough reporting, exposing wrongdoing and pointing to possible solutions. We hope you support us by reading us online at OregonLive or by signing up for a subscription to The Oregonian or both. You are the reason we do this work. --Therese Bottomly Therese Bottomly is editor and vice president of content for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach her at tbottomly@oregonian.com. The Portland area is in store for a very spring-like weekend. Forecasters predict that the high Saturday will reach 56 degrees, and that the region could be hit by some showers and a thunderstorm or two in the afternoon. But rain accumulations arent expected to be high -- maybe several hundredths of an inch. The low Saturday night into Sunday morning is expected to dip close to 40 degrees. Sunday the sun is expected to shine and highs could climb into the low 60s. Forecasters predict no rain. So get out there and enjoy a glorious start to Spring Break week! Speaking of the week, high temperatures are expected to hover between the mid-50s and about 60 degrees. There could be rain Monday and Thursday. But otherwise, forecasters expect the week to be dry. Headed to the beach? The forecast for the northern Oregon Coast looks very similar to Portlands. Headed to the mountain? Highs during the week are expected to be in the low to mid-30s at Timberline Lodge. Best chances for a few inches of snow are Monday and Wednesday. -- Aimee Green agreen@oregonian.com o_aimee Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Van Pounds, who ran for a seat on the Oregon Supreme Court last year but lost, filed a $1.05 million federal lawsuit against the state Friday. Pounds claims that high-level supervisors at the states Department of Consumer and Business Services, which is where Pounds works, wanted him to lose the race and acted on that desire by releasing a damaging report about him to a Willamette Week reporter. Pounds, who is a licensed lawyer in Oregon, put his name in the running for the seat held by Meagan Flynn. Flynn had been appointed to the high court by Gov. Kate Brown in 2017. Pounds said he entered the 2018 race because he believes the system is flawed: Almost always, the governor appoints judges or justices to their positions during non-election years. And when the next election rolls around, voters blindly elect those incumbents. Pounds lawsuit states that after he announced his candidacy, the governor and all the other Supreme Court justices began circling their wagons by endorsing Flynn. In doing so, they signaled their opposition to Pounds, the suit says. Pounds suit alleges that supervisors at the Department of Consumer and Business Services also were out to derail his campaign -- by releasing an unflattering report from 2015 to reporter Nigel Jaquiss after Pounds entered the Supreme Court race. Jaquiss had sent a public information request to the state -- alleging Pounds had been demoted and received a pay cut, and Jaquiss wanted documentation that explained that, according to the suit. On March 26, 2018, an administrator within the departments Employee Services office, Brian Light, called Pounds to his office, according to the suit. Light then handed Pounds a folder with the report that was written in 2015, when Pounds was the supervisor of the departments Enforcement and Securities unit, the suit states. The lawsuit says Pounds wasnt aware of the existence of the report before that March 2018 meeting, he wasnt given an opportunity to dispute its findings and he objected to its release. The report, according to the lawsuit, stated that "overwhelmingly, employees generally do not trust Van" and that "Van is generally found to be the least credible person in the unit." The suit says two days after meeting with Pounds, Light released the report to Willamette Week. It ended up publishing a story stating that Pounds had shifted jobs since the 2015 report and was making about $5,000 a year less. Pounds lost the election on May 15, 2018. He received about 26 percent of the vote. The Willamette Week article and its progeny continue to hang ominously over Plaintiff's reputation like a dark cloud on the world-wide web, states the lawsuit. The suit claims that Light -- as well as department director Cameron Smith -- used their positions to disclose stigmatizing information to Willamette Week with the knowledge or intent that the information would damage Pounds candidacy. While it was Light who set the wheels of harm in motion in May 2015, it was Smith and Light who made the fateful decision to publicly throw Plaintiff under the bus in March 2018, the lawsuit states. The suit alleges that Light and Smith claimed they were merely responding to a public records request but that claim was patently false. Although a state spokeswoman couldnt be reached for comment about the lawsuit Saturday, the state has a practice of declining to comment on pending litigation. The suit lists Light, Smith and the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services as defendants. Pounds seeks $350,000 in compensatory damages for himself, and $700,000 in punitive damages for himself and the American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon. Pounds is representing himself. He filed the suit Friday in U.S. District Court in Eugene. -- Aimee Green agreen@oregonian.com o_aimee Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- A Senate committee on Friday passed legislation that will allow doctors in Maryland to prescribe a lethal dose of medicine to terminally ill patients who want to end their lives, clearing a hurdle for the bill to advance to the Senate floor next week. But advocates of a national aid-in-dying movement complained that amendments to the Maryland legislation "will make it nearly impossible for patients to access." The Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee voted 8-3, largely along party lines, to allow the bill to move to the full Senate. Sen. Chris West of Baltimore County was the only Republican on the committee to vote for the bill. The committee made significant changes to the bill that were aimed at preventing possible coercion and removing immunity from doctors who participate in the end-of-life option. Advocates say the amendments go too far and hinted at the possibility of withdrawing support for the measure if it remains in its current form. Sen. William Smith, D-Montgomery, the lead sponsor in the Senate, said he thought the bill "struck a balance between the protections and the access." "It was the committee's will to err on the side of extreme caution," he said. "I still think it's a significant step forward and it does represent progress." Kim Callinan, the chief executive of Compassion & Choices, which has led efforts across the country to pass similar legislation, said the Senate version of the bill adds roadblocks not present in any other state. Aid-in-dying laws have been enacted in the District, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Montana, Oregon, Vermont and Washington state. "It does a disservice when the experience that [terminally ill patients] have is roadblocks," Callinan said. "All the things that they did in this bill will just further deter doctors from practicing and put more barriers in place for dying patients." The House version of the bill, which passed after an emotional debate earlier this month, is modeled after Oregon's law and would apply to terminally ill people whose doctors say they have less than six months to live. A patient would have to make three requests, both oral and written, to end his or her life, with waiting periods and the ability to rescind the request at any time. Lawmakers amended the bill late Thursday during a seven-hour discussion in which they went over the 23-page bill line by line and, in some instances, word by word. The committee considered more than 50 amendments and approved 20. The most controversial changes include a requirement that the attending doctor and the consulting doctor are not in the same practice; a mandatory mental health referral from a psychiatrist, psychologist or licensed clinical social worker; a definition of terminal illness that includes descriptions like irreversible and progressive; removal of legal immunity for participating doctors; and a requirement that a consulting physician provide the patient with a list of alternative treatments in writing. Opponents of the bill say the state is going down a slippery slope, one that could lead to poor and vulnerable patients being pressured into a premature death. Joseph Marine, an associate professor at the School of Medicine at Johns Hopkins University and a member of the Maryland Against Physician Assisted Suicide coalition, said he considers the bill "fatally flawed." "This bill strikes at the heart of the medical principle that we do not cause the death of a patient," he said. Sen. Jeff Waldstreicher, a Democrat who voted for the bill, said that he didn't agree with all of the changes the committee made but that he thought they would help ensure the bill passed this session. "I think it makes it a tighter bill," he said. "It also makes it politically palatable on the floor of the Senate." Waldstreicher said he did not see the amendments as "dealing a fatal blow" to access. He said if access turns out to be too limited, the legislature could revisit the issue. He said the General Assembly made a similar move after it initially approved a medical marijuana bill that was too restrictive. In other action, the Senate gave initial approval to a bill that would abolish the state's handgun review board, replacing the citizen-run panel with administrative law judges. The panel, which decides whether to overturn a denial from the state police for a permit to carry a handgun, has come under scrutiny in recent years for increasingly overturning denials for handgun permits. The bill has not been considered by the House. The Senate also advanced legislation that will allow people to register to vote at the polls on Election Day. That bill has already passed the House. Goose Creek, SC (29445) Today Rain likely. Thunder possible. Low 53F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Rain likely. Thunder possible. Low 53F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Business leaders from seven Michigan companies, including Midland's RightAnswer.com, will travel to Brazil and Colombia on Sunday to meet with prospective partners, distributors and customers to increase export opportunities in these markets. The trade mission, taking place next week, is being coordinated by the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corp.'s International Trade Program. MEDC's International Trade Program is committed to increasing Michigan's exporting opportunities by helping businesses identify and enter key emerging foreign markets. Since its inception in 2012, the International Trade Program at the MEDC has worked with Michigan companies to support more than $2.6 billion in export sales and 12,389 jobs across the state. "Michigan's ties with Brazilian and Colombian companies have resulted in good jobs here and we look forward to further strengthening these relationships," said MEDC Chief Executive Officer Jeff Mason. "This South American trade mission will open doors for these companies by helping them identify and enter into new relationships, ultimately growing their businesses and bringing additional jobs to Michigan residents." The participating Michigan companies will receive a customized schedule of business-to-business meetings to meet with prospective customers and business partners. Matchmaking meetings in Brazil were arranged by the Michigan Brazil Center, while Colombia meetings were arranged by the GSGP Affiliate Center in South America. Mission participants will also benefit from networking events and logistical support. RightAnswer.com develops and manages databases and software that are reliable data solutions and cost-effective document support for Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) requirements. This trade mission is the third MEDC-sponsored event in which RightAnswer.com has participated. "As a small Michigan-based business, RightAnswer.com has benefitted significantly from participation in three recent international trade missions sponsored by MEDC/GSGP. This upcoming trade mission to Brazil and Colombia is another wonderful opportunity for our company to expand our business internationally in ways that we would not otherwise be able to do effectively," said RightAnswer.com Corporate Business Development Manager Glen Markham. "These trade missions are helping our company to penetrate markets in new countries and to establish and fortify distribution channels for our information technology services. These new opportunities bring excitement for our company's future growth." Other companies attending include Challenger Communications, LLC (Albion), Littlite LLC (Whitmore Lake), Supply Chain Solutions (Grand Rapids), Thunderbird Aviation, LLC (Harrison Twp.), Corrigan Air and Sea Cargo (Romulus) and eVitamins (Utica). Wanigas Credit Union elected its 2019 Board of Directors at its recent annual meeting at the Horizons Conference Center in Saginaw. The members of the 2019 Board of Directors include: Gerald Little, chairperson; Michael Balls, vice chairperson; Lisa Wilson, treasurer; Valorie Green, secretary; Michael Malmo, director; Gus Alexander, director; and Ja'Lynn Jones, director. Sheriff's deputies across Midland County will soon be operating with an updated camera system thanks to several grants gifted to the Midland County Sheriff's Office. Midland County Sheriff Scott Stephenson announced in a press release Friday that the Sheriff's Office has received two grants to assist in the purchase of new in-car and body-worn cameras to be used by road patrol deputies and correctional deputies working at the Midland County Jail. On Friday, Midland fourth graders were able to take a break from their normal classroom routine and take an educational field trip to Saginaw Valley State University to learn about international cultures. Two fourth-grade classes from -- Chestnut Hill Elementary School and a class from Bangor Township Lincoln Elementary School -- were invited to spend the day on the college campus at "Passports of the World International Fair." The event not only exposed area children to a higher education environment, but also multiple, international cultures, said Kathryn Scott, event coordinator and director of the English language program at SVSU. Scott said the field trip uses a mixture of modalities of learning from hands-on activities, songs and dancing performances, to yoga and writing. "It's international themed, but there's all kinds of ways to experience that," she said. With their "passports" in hand, the children were able to "visit different countries," or activity tables, each with its own theme and craft. Each table was manned by one or more international students that demonstrated a craft or skill. El Salvador, Palestine, Kyrgyzstan, Saudi Arabia and China were among the cultures represented at the event. Kids could try their hand in using chopsticks to pick up cotton balls and pinto beans at the China table or decorate colorful coffee filter skirts at the El Salvador table. Other activities included making Chinese paper lanterns, origami, a Kyrgyzstan hat, bookmarks with Korean and Arabic languages and have their faces painted with one of the world's flags. "Allowing (the children) to experience this when they're young and still forming opinions - sometimes is easier than trying to reach them later on when they have very decided opinions about some things," Scott said. Fourth-grade teacher Christina Blunden of Chestnut Hill agreed that the event helped the children to become more open-minded. "It's been a really great experience," she said. "The kids seem to really be enjoying it and I do think they are getting a lot out of it." Karter Kimbrue, 9, and his friend Michael Marschall, 8, both from Lincoln Elementary, said it was fun to meet people from different countries and learn about their cultures. "I'm just happy we got picked to come," Kimbrue said. "It's exciting." Scott added that it is increasingly important to familiarize young kids with the rest of the world because the world is becoming smaller and more inter-connected. "We're all human," Scott said. "We all live in the same world. So, there might be some things that are different but also a lot of things that are the same." However, the event doesn't just benefit the children -- it's a symbiotic relationship, Scott said. The event is also an opportunity for international students to practice speaking English, as well as interact with younger Americans, which they typically wouldn't have the chance to do while in America. "Kids usually are a little less scary to talk to than adults, so it lowers their anxiety a little bit to be able to talk with children instead of adults," Scott said. "This is honestly a really practical way for them to practice their English in a low-stakes setting, doing something fun with the students." One of the volunteer students taking advantage of the opportunity was William Jia, from Beijing, China. He said he had fun interacting with the children and sharing his culture, while practicing his speaking skills. SVSU graduate student Sandra Lamarche said if there is one thing she hopes the children take away from the event it's that some people are different, but that's OK. "We just kind of want to plant a seed in their head so that they understand there's other things out there," she said. "There's other people and to just open their eyes a little bit." Lamarche's role in the program was to recruit international students as volunteers for the event. "Some of our students have a hard time getting out of their shell but this is an important opportunity for them to do something completely different and kind of ease into becoming more involved on the campus," she said. The Michigan Municipal League has honored State Sen. Jim Stamas, R-Midland, as one of its two 2019 Legislators of the Year. The award was formally presented to Stamas during the League's recent annual Capital Conference Awards Gala in Lansing. Stamas represents Michigan's 36th Senate District, which includes Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Gladwin, Iosco, Midland, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, and Presque Isle counties. "His district is large geographically, but Sen. Stamas takes an interest and is active in each of his communities," said Rogers City Mayor Scott McLennan, who, along with Joe Hefele, city manager for Rogers City, presented Stamas the award. "For example, throughout 2018 Sen. Stamas championed numerous issues that benefitted member communities, including Rogers City. He is a legislator that the League frequently turns to for advice and assistance on issues important to municipalities in Michigan." During 2018, Stamas championed numerous issues that benefitted League member communities, according to the League. It said his work on behalf of the City of Rogers City provided the critical momentum needed to secure passage of the extension and expansion of the pension bonding tool for local units of government. Stamas partnered with the League in negotiating with Treasury and the governor's office throughout the late summer and fall to gain support for that legislation, and he was responsible for ensuring its passage during the last days of the lame duck session. Stamas also partnered with the League and responded to its request for legislation that protected local debt limits from inadvertent negative consequences resulting from the new personal property tax law. Through Stamas' involvement, the new property tax assessing reforms that had been proposed by the State Treasurer were significantly overhauled, with the final product receiving near unanimous support from local government organizations, including the League. Throughout the summer, Stamas met with local government officials through multiple public forums and workgroup sessions to hear and try to address their concerns. His efforts helped produce a compromise where he was also able to insert language promoted by the League that will benefit villages throughout the state. Stamas also worked closely with the League on changes to the state's fireworks law and with the City of Alpena as it sought to resolve a Renaissance Zone issue in that community. "As someone who started in local government, I understand and appreciate the important work being done every day in our communities," Stamas said in the League announcement. "I am honored to be recognized for supporting our local communities and look forward to continuing to work with the Michigan Municipal League to make our state the best place in the country for families, workers and job creators." Rep. Jim Lilly (R-Macatawa) was the other Legislator of the Year. WASHINGTON - House Democrats, concerned that President Donald Trump's attorney general may withhold evidence of wrongdoing uncovered by special counsel Robert Mueller, are preparing for potential battle over access to the full contents of Mueller's newly completed report, vowing to pursue it and any underlying investigative materials in court if necessary. "We will fight" for the full report, said Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, emphasizing that Democrats expect complete transparency from Mueller and the Justice Department, save for redactions of classified information that could jeopardize sensitive law enforcement methods if disclosed publicly. Attorney General William Barr informed the heads of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees in a letter Friday that he might be able to advise them of Mueller's "principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." He noted also that neither Barr nor his predecessors had challenged any actions Mueller took during his probe. But with limited power to compel information from potential witnesses, congressional Democrats are looking to Mueller's findings to inform their investigations of Trump's campaign, businesses and alleged foreign ties - and insist they will be satisfied with nothing short of a complete account of the results and the evidence that informed them. "The Special Counsel's investigation focused on questions that go to the integrity of our democracy itself: whether foreign powers corruptly interfered in our elections, and whether unlawful means were used to hinder that investigation," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a joint statement after Barr announced Mueller had completed his report. "The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency." The stakes are high: If the special counsel found evidence that Trump committed a crime, participated in a coverup, or otherwise engaged in conduct undermining the public trust, it could fuel calls for impeachment, which Democratic leaders have resisted absent proof of wrongdoing. According to the Justice Department, Mueller has not recommended any further indictments - news that Trump's defenders in the GOP took as vindication. "The reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what we've known all along: there was never any collusion with Russia," Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana, the House's second-ranking Republican, said in a statement. Trump's disdain for Mueller's probe, which he has labeled a "witch hunt," and his animus toward congressional oversight, which he considers "presidential harassment," have fed Democrats' suspicion that he might have something to hide and might attempt to force Barr to conceal any unsavory details from public view. As a result, Pelosi and Schumer warned Friday it was "imperative" Barr publicize Mueller's findings no later than the president was made aware of the report's contents. "Attorney General Barr must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of Special Counsel Mueller's findings or evidence," they said. "The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public." Republicans say the full report should be released. But they have stopped short of echoing the Democrats' concerns, expressing faith that Barr will be as transparent as possible - indicating they will defer to Barr, not fight him. "We're jumping about 60 steps too far," said the Judiciary Committee's ranking minority-party member, Rep. Douglas Collins, R-Ga., when asked about Democrats' plans. "At this point in time I'm not going to question my attorney general's veracity or the fact that he's going to do what he says he's going to do. Until he proves me wrong." Regulations governing Mueller's work, which centers on Russia's interference in the 2016 presidential election and whether anyone in the Trump campaign conspired with those efforts, require the special counsel only to provide Barr with a confidential report explaining why he elected to prosecute certain individuals or declined to do so. Barr may release the report publicly, if he deems it "in the public interest." That is not required, though he is under considerable pressure to do so. One key question Democrats have is whether Mueller has concluded that Trump engaged in criminal activities but declined to charge him in deference to Justice Department policy that a sitting president may not be indicted. Such information should be made public, they argue. "If the Special Counsel has reason to believe that the President has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct, then the Justice Department has an obligation not to conceal such information," the Democratic chairs of the six House panels conducting investigations that dovetail with Mueller's probe said in a joint statement Friday night. "Anything less than full transparency would raise serious questions about whether the Department of Justice policy is being used as a pretext for a coverup of misconduct." Compounding Democrats' unease are remarks made in February by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who said the Justice Department should not reveal information about people it does not charge with crimes. That suggests the department will not release interviews, emails or other material concerning the president and others who were not charged, even though such information could be useful to ongoing investigations in the House. "I'm concerned that [DOJ is] signaling they're going to fight the Congress when it comes to [Mueller's] underlying evidence," said Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., who as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee is leading one of six Trump-related probes in the House. The Senate Intelligence Committee is also examining Russia's activities surrounding the 2016 election, a probe that began shortly after Trump's inauguration. "We're going to have to pick and choose our legal battles," Schiff added, but "it seems to me there are few fights as important as this one." To obtain the full report, Democrats will likely first negotiate with the Justice Department. An offer to let members read it in a secure room designed for viewing classified materials would not suffice, Nadler said. "No, no, no," he said. "Information that goes to [intelligence] sources and methods should not be public. But everything else should be." If negotiations fail to produce the complete report and its underlying evidence, then the Democrats will move to more coercive measures such as subpoenas, Nadler said. "The next step after that is to ask Mueller to testify in front of the committee," he said. If the Justice Department resists, Pelosi would have to decide whether to start a political battle by seeking to hold administration officials in contempt of Congress - a decision likely to result in lengthy court fights. The administration could also seek to prevent disclosure of material involving the president by claiming it is subject to executive privilege, but such claims are not absolute. Nadler and Barr met in March for a working lunch, their first face-to-face meeting. Nadler said he conveyed the importance of releasing the full report and underlying materials. Barr, he added, "just repeated that he'd do what he could and wanted to have as much disclosure as possible, period. He wasn't getting specific and couldn't get specific." Nadler cited two instances in which a court found that the executive branch could turn over grand jury material, one during the congressional investigation and impeachment proceedings of President Richard Nixon and the other during the 2010 impeachment trial of Thomas Porteous, a federal judge from Louisiana who was accused of taking bribes from lawyers and lying to lawmakers during their investigation. "It should not be necessary that there be a formal impeachment proceeding for Congress to get that material," Schiff said. "It should be enough that Congress has a public purpose for it." Nadler said it's important for the public to see the full report, whether it implicates or exonerates the president, to begin to restore trust in government. "The reason Mueller was appointed in the first place is there's a crisis of confidence," he said. "To the extent he knows something or reaches a conclusion, the public ought to know it, and ought to know the underlying evidence." The Democrats intend to leverage a precedent set by the Justice Department during the last Congress in connection with Republican-led investigations into Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server, the dismissal of FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe and allegations of bias among law enforcement officials involved in the Russia investigation. In those matters, the department released to Congress hundreds of thousands of internal documents regarding the FBI's decision-making, and all underlying documents involving the surveillance of a former Trump campaign official. Though he warned against the practice then, Schiff said he believes the department should match or outpace that level of compliance with regard to Mueller's work, to avoid the "appearance of being orchestrated" by the president. The chairs of the six House panels investigating Trump, including Oversight, Ways and Means, Financial Services and Foreign Affairs, also plan to issue preservation letters to agencies that have provided information to Mueller, such as the Justice Department, the FBI, the White House Counsel's Office. They want the agencies to retain any memos, correspondence, or other information that could be relevant in their ongoing probes. The CIA, National Security Agency, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Treasury and State departments also will receive letters. Democratic lawmakers issued similar letters last year when Trump fired his first attorney general, Jeff Sessions. Democrats believe that Mueller's report and investigative materials will facilitate their efforts to further scrutinize Trump's campaign and administration, his personal finances and his business operations as they search for evidence of corruption or any effort to obstruct justice. "There may be a lot of useful information in there, even if we think some things are unnecessarily redacted," said Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., a senior member of the Judiciary and Oversight committees. But as a first order of business, when Barr delivers a report on Mueller's probe to Congress, Raskin said: "We plan to read it." 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 James Daniel Grohman, 32, wildlife conservation-unlawfully taking deer/bear/turkeys on Dec. 30, 2019, $125 in costs and fines, five days in jail, $6,500 in restitution at the 75th District Court. (MC) Midland Jacob Allen Cole, 20, Beamish Road, operating impaired on Nov. 24, 2018, $725 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day, nine months probation, may not possess alcohol, illegal drugs, marijuana or mind-altering substances, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars, to pay $81 per month starting on or before April 18, 2019. (MC) Philip Martin Hinson, 37, Gordonville Road, operating while intoxicated on Dec. 4, 2018, $1,100 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day, nine months probation, may not possess alcohol, illegal drugs, marijuana or mind-altering substances, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars, to pay $53 per month starting on or before April 22, 2019. (MC) Kelly Alison Moldovan, 37, Broadhead Drive, third degree retail fraud on Dec. 15, 2018, $775 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day, six months probation, may not enter the Kohl's department store located at 901 Joe Mann Blvd. (MC) Desiree Ann Morse, 20, North Merritt Drive, second degree retail fraud, second offense on Dec. 20, 2018, $525 in costs and fines, $47 in restitution to Walmart, one year in jail with credit for three days, 15 months probation, may do community service in place of costs and fines, must make efforts toward obtaining diploma or GED, shall testify truthfully against co-defendant, may not possess alcohol, illegal drugs, marijuana or mind-altering substances, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars or the Walmart department store located at 910 Joe Mann Blvd. (MC) Renson Moses, 28, Quincy Drive, noise violation on March 9, 2019, $875 in costs and fines, 30 days in jail with credit for 10 days. (MC) Sean Benjamin Thompson, 32, Manor Drive, assault and battery on March 3, 2019, $75 in cost and fines, 30 days in jail with credit seven days, to run concurrent with circuit court case. (MC) Andrew James Wazny, 23, Ashman Street, disorderly person drunk on Jan. 13, 2019, $425 in costs and fines, 90 days in jail with credit for one day, three months of probation, may not possess alcohol, illegal drugs, marijuana or mind-altering substances, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars, must pay $100 per month starting on or before April 27, 2019. (MC) Out-of-State Scott David Hobson, 46, of Urbandale, Iowa, failure to stop after collision and operating with blood alcohol content of 0.17 or higher on Dec. 14, 2018, $1,550 in costs and fines, 15 days in jail with credit for one day. (MC) To the editor: The Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network held a mobile food pantry at Faith United Methodist Church in Coleman on March 13. Seventy-four volunteers served 144 families (399 individuals) with 12,479 pounds of food purchased from the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan with a generous donation from Trinity Lutheran Church in Midland. The distribution included frozen meats, apples, green beans, cereal, canned and boxed foods, milk, bottled and canned beverages, snacks, pastries and breads. The volunteers included 27 fantastic Coleman High School students from the National Honor Society and the Student Council. Kinshasa, DR Congo (PANA) - The government of DR Congo Saturday dismissed allegations by Global Witness concerning its efforts to sustainably manage the countrys forest resources, an official told the media Cairo, Egypt (PANA) - The Arab Republic of Egypt Saturday expressed its sincere condolences to Mali following the armed attack on a military base in the Mopti region in the centre of the country that killed 23 people and wounded several others, including soldiers, an official statement copied to PANA said Gaborone, Botswana (PANA) - The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism Saturday issued a warning to the public over a sulfuric acid spill along the highway road in Nata in the northern part of Botswana, an official source told PANA Tunis, Tunisia (PANA) A joint military exercise between Tunisian armed forces and US naval forces will begin on Monday, a communique issued Saturday by the Tunisian ministry of Defence said I was in Baden-Wurttemburg, Germany. It was weisser spargel season, and every meal was a play on the German fetish-veggie sometimes known as edible ivory. White asparagus soup. White asparagus sauteed in butter. Steamed, roasted, served chilled with vinaigrette or warm with pork and potatoes. Entire meals were beige in homage to the stuff. If you have ever tried to pair a wine with asparagus, you know its not a joking matter-the bizarre aromatics of asparagus throw a middle finger to most wines long before you get to its other aromatic issues. White asparagus, covered in mulch and sequestered from sunlight, develops no chlorophyll and has a milder flavor than its green counterpart, but its still asparagus. So I was enjoying my spargel-zuppe in the front room of a sort of laboratory-tasting room complex in the town of Lauffen. I was wondering how they were going to conduct what was sure to be a robust tasting after having destroyed everyones palates with the soup course. We went into a concrete-clad room full of barrels, some of them impressively carved. One had an intricate relief of a man in profile with long cascading curls. He was a poet named Justinius Kerner, who had, like many of us poets, been fascinated by wine, and who was the namesake of the Kerner grape, which had been bred at that very facility. I suddenly knew what might go with asparagus. We are at that time of year where its not spring, not really, but for a day or two the sun comes out and a bunch of trees bloom and you see butterflies for the first time in months and you are filled with a desire for open toed shoes, bare legs, and light-bodied white wine. You will be faked out immediately if you give in on the shoes: Hail will descend from the heavens. But the wines totally low-risk. I propose, for the beginning of the ephemeral and sometimes rather stinky asparagus season, looking into Kerner and Gruner Veltliner. Kerner and Gruner are not kin but they have certain similarities. Kerner is a go along to get along German grape with pale skinned, medium-berried clusters. Its turn-ons include really cold winters, sub-optimal soils and steep slopes. Gruner Veltliner is an Austrian type whose parentage is complicated enough that you can imagine Diana Rigg describing it in her Olenna Tyrell costume; it has green berries, and appreciates silty soils, so it is often planted near rivers. Gruner is a major player in Austria and Croatia but also has excellent expressions in Italy and Oregon. Kerner is very German but finds itself at home in Alps-adjacent Italy too (not to mention a suspicious number of producers playing with this frost-loving grape in hot, hot Lodi, CA). These unrelated grapes do have things in common. They tend to make wines that can be in the water with a kick range of light-bodied (Im not saying they are uniquely low alcohol, they just feel like it!), and they have ample and beautiful aromatics (Kerner is often appley, though as a descendent of Riesling it can express more tropical notes as well; Gruner generally has a hallmark zingy acidity and favors lime, green herb and orrisroot notes). They are both masterful at pairing with a huge variety of foods including feisty pairing challengers like asparagus. And they both make a lovely choice for happy hour on that first day of fake spring. Abbazia di Novacella Kerner (Italy, $16) Man, I love these guys. So. Much. Oeno-monks in Alto Adige, Italy make this gorgeous Kerner. Tart green apple, kiwi fruit, nutmeg, custard, honeysuckle and if you have ever eaten almonds when they are still green? That. Ultra-suave and not a drop of hauteur. Castelfeder Lahn Kerner (Italy, $18) Lime. Peach. Meadow blossoms. A hint of mango. Grapefruit. Green melon. Ripe yet delicate. Layered yet simple. A certain briskness, but not too much. Brilliant balance. Eisacktaller Kellerei Valle Isarco Alto Adige Kerner (Italy, $16) Is it my imagination? I dont think so. I think you can taste the quartz in the bedrock of Alto Adige when you drink this stuff. It has a particular glinting sort of minerality that just sings. This wine reminds you that Kerner is a progeny of Muscat with its spicy perfume. Nutmeg and apricots, a little apple, peachy finish. Illahe Gruner Veltliner (Oregon, $22) Yum! Feather-light but somehow still substantial. Apple. Peach. Grapefruit. Nectarine. Something almost cedar-like you dont expect from the varietal, but its Oregon so anything can happen (I believe this is aged in acacia barrels, which might impart some unusual notes). It has herb tones and a lightly honeyed character. My synesthetic makes-no-sense descriptor for this wine is dappled. Kramer Gruner Veltliner (Oregon, $24) PS, Kramer also makes a delicious sparkling Gruner, and a still Kerner. This steel-aged Gruner is decidedly citrusy and dancingly light on the palate. Peach, pear, apple, jasmine and freshly mown grass on a warm evening? Yes, that. Flirty acidity, good balance. Loimer Lois Gruner Veltliner (Austria) Light. Savory. Intriguing spiciness and racy acidity. Some vegetal notes (arugula?) and tart apple. Pronounced lemon note. Basic in a good way. Very versatile. Savage Grace Gruner Veltliner (Washington, $22) Michael Savage has an antidote for anyone who has major palate fatigue from punchy, high-extraction, big wines. He specializes in the understated and lean. This Gruner is kind of in the enhanced water spectrum, which I mean as a compliment. It is so restrained and easygoing you can easily put away a whole bottle without blinking. Honey, apples, lime pith, grapefruit, and Washingtons signature basalt minerality. Willamette Valley Vineyards Gruner Veltliner (Oregon, $24) I saw a review of this wine that called it thick? I have to say I didnt experience that at all. This is a skinny little minx of a wine by my lights, with a faint rosiness and a kind of dewy character. Lemon and lime zest, a little dried thyme, wet stone, and a trace of pepper. Delightful. Zocker Gruner Veltliner (California $20) Zocker, which is German for gambler, because no one was planting it in Chardonnay-loving Edna Valley. The gamble paid off. This is some good juice. Bigger and richer than most of the wines listed here, but still with the popping acidity that lets you know what youre drinking. An almost zany panoply of fruit notes including lemon, melon, peach, pineapple and grapefruit, with a white-pepper finish. Imagine if ISIS had posted a threat online about how they were going to cleanse specific public schools of infidels, and the schools threatened found the threat credible enough to shut down for two straight days. That would probably be front page news in America, right? Now replace ISIS with white supremacist, and youre describing a situation happening right now that major media largely ignored until an arrest was made today (prior to the arrest being made, this story was not on the homepages of the New York Times, The Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, or CNN, and only WaPo has it on their homepage nowcredit to NBC News, who had this on their front page before any of those four). Today, police arrested a teenager over the threat. Per NBC News: Charlottesville Chief of Police RaShall Brackney said at a news conference Friday afternoon that the teen, who was not named, identifies as Portuguese and is a resident of Albemarle County. Authorities said during their investigation into the threat, which referred to the ethnic cleansing of black and Hispanic high schools students, they learned who posted the message on 4chan and executed a search warrant for the teens arrest. He faces a felony charge of threats to commit serious bodily harm to persons on school property and a misdemeanor charge of harassment by computer. A lot of people will be quick to dismiss this as just shitposting by someone too naive to understand what they are saying (the latter is likely true), but the mass murder of 50 Muslim worshippers in a mosque in New Zealand is a grim demonstration of how shitposting is only shitposting until it isnt. Plus, this happened in a city where a white supremacist murdered Heather Heyer (pictured in the title photo of this article)and the President of the United States responded by saying there were very fine people on both sides. This is not an isolated incident. Not only is dismissing the ethnic cleansing posted by this teenager downplaying the severity of a historical evil, but it is an ahistorical take. None of this is new. The Nazis did all this before, as Adam Serwer wrote in The Atlantic: Apparently it matters little to his followers what he says, a New York Times reporter wrote of Hitler in 1930. Their chief concern is how he says it. What he says may not be true to those who know better, but to those who like it it is not without its logic. Ultimately, as with the New Zealand shooter, every joke, every pithy reference, every pretend gesture toward the moral standards of liberal democracy has the same punch line: We are going to kill you. There is nothing more profound to unearth from their ideas, or from them. What Charlottesville schools Superintendent Rosa Atkins described to the Richmond Times-Dispatch is the same kind of Nazi/New Zealand shooter terrorism described by Serwer: It affects everyone. ... If we open our schools, how will our teachers and staff be able to operate during the day? How effective will they be during the day, knowing that there is a threat against our school system? From her quote, you cannot tell whether it is white supremacist terrorism, Jihadist terrorism, or the terrorism of some other arcane political ideologywhich is instructive. Terrorism is the same, no matter the rationale behind it. The goal is to frighten and intimidate us while creating a spectacle (typically murderous) that will live on forever in peoples minds. All terrorism is unconscionable, and threatening the lives of children is barbaric. It doesnt matter who did it, this act cannot be dismissed as simple youthful stupidity. This is a hateful ideology responsible for millions (billions?) of deaths across the continents of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and North America, and it must be met with a forceful dismissal at every turn. White supremacy is the most immediate security threat this country faces, and its long past time that we started prioritizing the fight against it. Jacob Weindling is a staff writer for Paste politics. Follow him on Twitter at @Jakeweindling. Prior to Apple's big "Media" event on Monday where they'll be introducing new subscription services, Cook has been touring China meeting with various dignitaries, visiting the Palace Museum and delivering a speech at the Economic Summit of the China Development Forum in Beijing. A Chinese publication noted today that Cook stated that Apple is not worried about short-term prospects. He addressed the challenges at a macro level. In Cook's speech he noted that "In the short run, there are some obvious challenges around the world. The good thing is many of the challenges can be fixed by cooperation ... in the long term, the key to any economy has always been innovation." U.S. News captured Cook's full statement on this as being: "In the long term, I'm extremely bullish. I think the key to the economy, unlocking its potential has always been innovation, and when I travel around the world, I've never seen innovation at a more feverish pace than I do today, so I'm extremely optimistic." The Chinese report added that "Han Wenxiu, executive deputy director of the General Office of the Central Financial and Economic Affairs Commission, vowed that Chinas doors will be more widely opened to foreign investors in the services sector. Support measures will be implemented for the newly passed Foreign Investment Law and the Chinese government will continue to push ahead on free trade zones and free trade ports, according to Han. More than 150 foreign delegates made their presence at this years CDF, and roughly two-thirds of them are chairmen or CEOs of Fortune 500 enterprises or renowned global industry leaders, according to the forum." Below are various tweets about Cook's visit to China. Cook also dropped in on an Apple Store in Beijing Wangfujing and visited an online education company that is incorporating augmented reality into its product and met with a Chinese musician as he touted Apple's streaming service. .@Apple 's @tim_cook showed up at the flagship #applestore in Beijing Wangfujing last night for the #TodayatApple music event. Today, he has met education startup #iHuman and discussed AR with its founder before attending China Development Forum tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/444UyA34tC Yicai Global (@yicaichina) March 22, 2019 About Making Comments on our Site: Patently Apple reserves the right to post, dismiss or edit any comments. Those using abusive language or negative behavior will result in being blacklisted on Disqus. EDDYSTONE A 19-year-old borough man is behind bars, charged with attempted first-degree murder and related offenses after he allegedly stabbed his grandmother in the neck with a kitchen knife. Nathan Anthony Falato, of the 1200 block of Lawrence Avenue, told authorities that before the March 18 assault on his grandmother, he had been having thoughts of harming himself and others, according to the affidavit of probable cause for his arrest, authored by Lt. Joseph Pretti of the Eddystone Police Department and Detective Michael Jay of the Delaware County Criminal Investigation Division. According to the affidavit, Falato noticed his grandmother kneeling on the floor when he went into the kitchen, grabbed a steak knife, went up to her and stabbed her in the back of the neck. He told authorities the handle broke off of the knife, and he subsequently threw the blade and the handle in a trash can in the kitchen. He takes full responsibility for stabbing the victim and has no remorse for what had taken place, the affidavit states. When police responded to a call for an assault at the Lawrence Avenue address shortly after 2 p.m., the grandmother was standing outside, bleeding from the back of her neck. She told the officer that Falato had stabbed her, and that he had possible fled. The officers entered the house and took Falato into custody. I wanted to kill her, Falato blurted. The victim, who was kneeling down and vacuuming in the living room when the assault occurred, told the officers that she had been in fear of her life. The blade and knife handle were recovered from trash can in the kitchen, where Falato had indicated he tossed them. The grandmother was treated at Crozer-Chester Medical Center for a puncture wound to the back of her neck, which required stitches. Additional charges against Falato include aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person and possession of an instrument of crime. His bail was set at 10 percent of $250,000, which he failed to post. A preliminary hearing is listed for April 15 before Magisterial District Judge Philip S. Turner. It was not immediately known if Falato had retained an attorney. Eddystone Officers William Elliott and Shane Laird, CID Lt. William Gordon and CID Detectives Vincent Ficchi, Tim Deery, Dan McFarland assisted in the investigation. Rose Quinn Free Coors Light is coming to Bryn Mawrs Kelly Taproom. The Philadelphia-area bar is one of five bars nationwide thatll have a special tap, dubbed The Coors Light, which will light up every time Bud Light attacks Coors Light in an ad starting on March 22. The taps illumination will signal a free round of Coors Light for those in the bar. The stunt is a retaliation against Bud Lights recent ads calling out Coors Light and Millers Lite for using corn syrup. The ads also highlight Bud Lights new labels that its ingredients: water, barley, rice and hops. Bud Light has been attacking us out of frustration for weeks now, said Ryan Reis, vice president of brand marketing for the Coors Family of Brands in a press release. We believe people just want to move on. So we invented this smart beer tap that does the listening for them and even better, turns Bud Lights negativity into rounds of Coors Light on us. The Coors Light at Kellys Taproom will be active from 10 p.m. to midnight on March 22. Kellys Taproom is located at 1107 E. Lancaster Ave. in Bryn Mawr. You can learn more about the bar at kellystaproom.com. In addition to Kellys Taproom, the Coors Light will also be at Legends bar in New York City, The Silver Bullet Bar at Texas Live in Dallas and Rock and Reillys in Las Vegas. Itll also be available at a bar in Omaha. You can learn more about Coors Light at coorslight.com. A multiple-vehicle crash in Franklin County resulted in one persons death and several others sustaining injuries. State police have not yet identified the person who was killed in the crash. The crash happened at 8:51 p.m. Friday on Molly Pitcher Highway in the area of Interstate 81 southbound. State police said Marc Pittman, 22, of Greencastle, was driving north in the area and approaching the Interstate 81 overpass. At the same time, 44-year-old Jason Eric Piatt, of Waynesboro, was traveling in the merge lane behind Pittman and passed Pittmans vehicle to the right. For some unknown reason, Pittman and Piatts vehicles made contact, causing both vehicles to lose control and travel into the oncoming lane and strike the bridge barrier. Ismael Hernandez, 22, of Greencastle, was driving in the oncoming traffic, and struck Piatts vehicle, causing significant damage to both vehicles, state police said. Pittman and a passenger in his vehicle were taken by EMS to Meritus Hospital in Hagerstown, Maryland, for treatment of their injuries. The passenger was not identified in the police report. Piatt was flown to Hershey Medical Center for treatment of his injuries, and a passenger in his vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene, state police said. That passenger was also not identified. Hernandez, who had front and rear passengers in his vehicle, sustained minor injuries and was taken by a friend to Chambersburg Hospital, according to the release. His passengers also reported minor injuries. A man police searched for at state game lands in Lancaster County last week remains unaccounted for. Police with the Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department have identified the man as 46-year-old Karl Messersmith. Officers learned of Messersmiths disappearance at 2:30 p.m. on March 18, according to a news release. The initial call to state police in Jonestown was that Messersmith was possibly suicidal, and his vehicle was found parked near the intersection of Woodcock and Laurel Lane in Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. It was later determined by police that Messersmiths vehicle had been parked at the location for about four days. Officers met with Pennsylvania Game Commission officials and began to search trails and areas in the immediate vicinity of Messersmiths vehicle. Officers contacted Messersmiths family members in the area, and began the missing persons reporting process, according to police. Family members told police Messersmith had an interest in geocaching, HAM radio, and panoramic views from vantage points on local mountain top vistas. During a search of Messersmiths vehicle, officers found a loaded handgun, a radio, and other equipment for outdoor activities, according to police. Interviews with family members included indications of potential self-harm by the subject, consistent with the specific location where the vehicle was found and matching nearby geographic features, police said. The interviews also provided the specific means and way the threat to self-harm was provided in a vaguely worded conversation. The search concluded on Wednesday, March 20th, after three days. Resources used in the search included drones, horse-mounted search teams, ATVs, and aviation resources from Pennsylvania State Police. Messersmith is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighs 275 pounds, has brown hair and hazel eyes, and wears glasses. Police dont know what he was wearing last, but said his usual attire includes camouflage pants and hoodies. Anyone with information concerning Messersmith is asked to contact the Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department via Crime Watch. We are looking for members of the community, both adults and students, to participate next week in a reader discussion on legalizing recreational marijuana. The event will be held at our offices in Hampden Twp., at 2020 Technology Parkway, on Wednesday, March 27, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. A social hour, with food, will precede it. This is a group discussion directed by a moderator. It will include professionals as well as members from the community. Part of PennLives mission is to promote a dialogue on issues that are important to and affect the community. Its an integral part of the role we play in working through our differences or, at the least, finding common ground. One of the ways weve been able to accomplish this is through these readers panels, which meet monthly. The panel, which has ranged in size from 14 to 18 people, has tackled the political divide, the subject of race and solutions to the opioids crisis. Its a mix of gender, race and age, with readers from throughout the region. Its a panel that has been a bit different every time we have gathered to talk, based on peoples availability. PennLive opinion editor Joyce Davis will be the primary moderator for the hour-long event. We will video the discussion and find the talking points for a followup story. In an attempt to continue to broaden the viewpoints of our group, there are a couple spots that remain open for the meeting on the 27th. If youre interested in joining us, send an email to Paul Vigna at pvigna@pennlive.com. In the hours since a jury found former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld not guilty in the shooting death of 17-year-old Antwon Rose II, protesters have taken to the streets. Rose was fleeing from a traffic stop outside Pittsburgh, but was an unarmed passenger inside a vehicle suspected of involvement with a drive-by shooting, police said. Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot the teen multiple times. Prosecutors argued Rose was no threat to the officer, and that the shooting was not justified. The jury cleared Rosfeld of all possible homicide charges after hours of deliberation Friday night. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that chanting and protests began outside the courthouse, shortly after the the verdict was read. Pittsburghs public safety department released a statement Friday, saying their focus is to keep the city safe, including demonstrators, residences, business owners and visitors. Pittsburgh's public safety department just put out this statement: pic.twitter.com/0b8k6a8gL0 Shelly Bradbury (@ShellyBradbury) March 23, 2019 Heres what reporters are seeing from protesters Friday night: The protesters went down South Whitfield and packed into the Ace Hotel. Bartenders are standing around, watching. pic.twitter.com/FkOPbYR2qB Julian Routh (@julianrouth) March 23, 2019 "They don't lynch us in the trees, they shoot our babies in the streets," the crowd is shouting as it moves through East Liberty. Liz Navratil (@LizNavratil) March 23, 2019 More chanting from protestors inside the Ace Hotel. pic.twitter.com/QmKilmBTx4 Lacretia Wimbley (@WimbleyJourno) March 23, 2019 People are handing out hand warmers and water bottles to protestors. pic.twitter.com/PxZs6FBAoe Lacretia Wimbley (@WimbleyJourno) March 23, 2019 Protesters march in East Liberty in protest of the non guilty verdict of former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld. @PittsburghPG @PGVisuals #AntwonRoseII pic.twitter.com/JXnmA2q3fI Lake Fong (@LakeFong) March 23, 2019 HAPPENING NOW: Protestors block Penn and Centre avenues in East Liberty, Pittsburgh. Protesting the not guilty verdict of Michael Rosfeld in the #AntwonRoseII trial. pic.twitter.com/AMlh5Q2lhr Pittsburgh City Paper (@PGHCityPaper) March 23, 2019 Hundreds of people have criticized a photo of Steelton-HIghspire students taking part in a watermelon-eating contest as perpetuating a racist stereotype, but students at the school say the uproar is an overreaction. Freshman Anthony Johnson said the people condemning the photo which shows African-American students eating watermelon and a white administrator photographing the event werent there, and probably dont know the facts. Although the contest is now a topic of fierce discussion, several minority students who were in the audience watching it said they didnt think twice about it at the time. Junior Natalia Melendrez said her class organized the assembly, which involved the local food bank and other organizations. There was an idea for an eating contest, and the fruit selection was made by a asking the members of the junior class. The class chose watermelon, Melendrez said. On Thursday, during the school-wide assembly, they called into the audience asking for volunteers to compete. Students from different grades raised their hands and were picked at random. All those chosen happened to be African American, said Melendrez and other students interviewed Friday. Sophomore Kiyler Raye was in the audience at the time, and said he didnt see anything wrong with it. Were in Steelton. This is a majority African American community, Raye said. Most of the students that go here are African American. The numbers were just in the favor of the people being picked were African American. Steelton-Highspire School District Superintendent Travis M. Waters addressed this series of events in a letter sent to parents, saying that the assembly was themed Student Painted Palettes, which was designed to highlight healthy eating. The whole message was about eating healthy and giving back to the community through the food bank, Rayes said. And the food bank wouldnt want to give junk to the community. So they wanted to give them fruit, and the biggest possible fruit is a watermelon. I mean, theyre not going to make kids eat pumpkins. Melendrez said they could have consulted the teachers about the fruit selection, but the teachers really werent involved. It was [organized by] the students and about the food bank, Melendrez said. It was a good cause. It wasnt meant to harm anybody. Once the photo was posted to social media, parents and community members lashed out, harkening back to stereotypes that plagued the African American community for decades. The students said they were well aware of the stereotype, but thats just not where their heads were during their assembly. We just thought it was funny, said Johnsons friend and fellow freshman Joshua Hudson. And now, a lot more is at stake. Johnson said some students are circulating petitions urging administrators to realize the criticism is overblown. Its starting to get a little worrying because our art teacher and principal, theyre worried about losing their jobs," Raye said. And thats just cutting off income to their family and food on their table. Its not on the teacher. Raye, Melendrez and the freshman students all said everyone is overreacting. Raye said social media had a lot to do with the story getting so big, and that in 2019, people are more sensitive to these issues than they were in the last few decades. Everybodys talking about it. Some people said it was too much, they should have known, or they say they should have known that it wasnt anything like that, Raye said. It was blown out of proportion. WILLIAMSPORT - A Lycoming County woman has been charged with homicide for providing transportation for two men accused of murdering a Williamsport man, authorities said. Ariel Jane Harlan, 25, of South Williamsport was charged Friday although there is no allegation she was present when Christopher Wilkins, 27, of Philadelphia, was fatally shot Aug. 30, 2016. Her role in the crime, according to the charges, was to drive Joseph Sentore Coleman Jr. and James Calvin Rooks, both 27 of Williamsport, to and from the 500 block of Park Avenue, where Wilkins was shot in an apartment. Coleman, who has ties to Harrisburg, and Rooks were charged in February with killing Wilkins. They are both jailed without bail awaiting trial. Harlan is also jailed without bail. Harlan has admitted being the driver and having a relationship with Coleman around the time of the murder, the arrest affidavit states. She told police Coleman and Rooks got out of the car and she later heard a gunshot, the affidavit states. She said Coleman returned to the vehicle carrying a mask and shoving a revolver into his waistband, the charges state. After Coleman and Rooks jumped into the car, Coleman screamed at her to drive, the affidavit states. A male who has not been charged told investigators Coleman agreed to forget a drug debt if he got him into Wilkins apartment. That individual claimed he was with the other three when they went to Harlans apartment to get a bag containing guns and then to the Park Avenue address, the charges state. After making sure the back door of the apartment house was unlocked, he walked away and heard a gunshot as he did, he told police. Wilkins was selling heroin and cocaine from the apartment and the day he was killed possessed drugs, cash and cellphones, investigators said. Besides homicide, Harlan is charged with conspiracy, robbery and possessing a firearm without a license. Information obtained during the investigation of a 2016 double homicide helped solve the Wilkins murder, Agent Trent Peacock said. Just prior to being charged with Wilkins death, Coleman was found guilty of two counts of second-degree murder and related charges in the double homicide on Halloween 2016. He is awaiting sentencing. Coleman was convicted for his role in the home invasion that resulted in the deaths of Shane Wright, 25, and his mother, Kristine Kibler, 50. The driver in that case, Casey N. Wilson, pleaded guilty to third-degree murder and testified against Coleman. The trial for Jordan Adonis Rawls, who is accused of firing the shots that killed Wright and Kibler, is scheduled the week of April 1. On January 20th, 2017, the Republican Party under Donald Trump took control of the government of the United States of America. One of the stated goals of his administration was to press for the overturn of gay rights legislation. As his first step, Trump has issued a ban on transgender men and women who are currently serving in the military. Trump stated, Our military cannot be burdened with the costs and disruptions that transgenders would entail. Thousands of transgenders have enlisted to serve in our armed forces and by doing so, they have voluntarily placed themselves in harms way. Now they are being told that they are not fit to serve their country, by a person who requested and received five deferments in order to avoid the military. No individual anywhere should be allowed to dictate or influence the personal life choices or decisions made by anyone or penalize them for those decisions. Stand up and let your voice be heard. Together, we can prove that love will always trump hate. Dan Siderio, Mount Pleasant Township, Adams County Landisburg Borough Council on March 11 unanimously approved an ordinance banning businesses from the production or sale of marijuana in the borough. Council proposed the ordinance in February as a way to get ahead of any legalization of recreational marijuana at the state level and has compared the ordinance to similar ones that bar the sale of alcohol in boroughs around the state. Its similar to liquor stores, council President Stephen Kowalewski said. We dont have liquor stores in the borough either. Council members also said the ordinance will not ban the use of marijuana recreational or medicinal if approved by the state. Medicinal marijuana was legalized in 2016 in Pennsylvania. Bills have been floated in the Legislature to legalize recreational uses, but none has yet passed. If people smoke in their own homes, thats fine, Councilman Harold Gilbert said. Im not going in there to take it from them. Kowalewski stayed with the alcohol metaphors. Its no different than someone having a beer in their house, he said. We just dont want it sold here. The ordinance bans establishments from selling or growing marijuana in all forms in the borough, according to its final text. It doesnt bar transport through the borough. It does not specifically mention medical marijuana in its prohibition but includes growers, processors and dispensaries whether or not licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, in the definition of marijuana establishments. Patients with valid medical marijuana prescriptions could still bring in and use marijuana in the borough. The ordinance categorizes violations as a nuisance and a civil infraction. The penalty would be a fine of between $100 and $500 for every day the violation continues. Council members said residents are supportive, but few people came to the meetings. No resident, aside from council members, spoke up during the meetings to support or oppose the ordinance. Kowalewski said not hearing from residents was a silent show of support, according to some interpretations. He noted that a lot of the criticism of the boroughs ordinance has come from people who live outside the borough. Ive had a lot of feedback on this, Councilman Kenneth Morrison said, and it seems people are thankful for our decision. Miriam Briscoe, a Landisburg resident, urged council to put the marijuana ban on an upcoming municipal ballot so residents could vote on it. They did not pursue that option. Council members drew some connections between this and broader substance use issues. Council has been concerned about other potential drug activity in the borough, particularly with the heroin and opioid epidemic that has caused a rise in drug overdoses in Perry County. I think its a good idea. If you dont have alcohol, why would you have pot? Gilbert said. He noted that he had experimented with drugs when he was a young man, starting with alcohol and marijuana, then progressing to psychedelics. He said he is a recovering alcoholic and it all started with those first gateways to substance use. Not everyone goes from weed to shooting up, Gilbert said, but with the other problems, people have told me this (ordinance) is a good idea. In February, Kowalewski also referenced Lt. Gov. John Fettermans listening tour about recreational marijuana legalization as an issue that influenced the ordinance. Fettermans stop in Perry County was rescheduled twice in February due to weather. He is scheduled to come to the New Bloomfield VFW, 71 Soule Road, from 6-7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 25. Perry residents who cant make the Monday event, can submit their feedback online here. Well-oiled machine: Eta Nu's Dress for Chill program continues to provide warmth, smiles Thanks to the Boyne Eta Nu Charities' "Dress for Chill" program, a total of 187 Boyne City students will be dressed warmly this winter season. This undated photo provided by the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art shows a painting of poppies, oil on canvas. The painting at the Connecticut museum that has long been thought to be by Vincent van Gogh has been authenticated as such by Dutch researchers. (Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art via AP) Read more HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) A painting at a Connecticut museum that has long been thought to be by Vincent van Gogh has been authenticated as such by Dutch researchers. The Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford announced Friday that the oil painting Vase with Poppies has been verified by researchers at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam as having been painted by the Dutch artist in 1886, just after he moved to Paris. It has been in the museum's collection since 1957. Its authenticity was called into question in 1990 by art historian and van Gogh expert Walter Feilchenfeldt, who raised concerns about many purported van Goghs around the world, the Hartford Courant reported. The artwork was taken out of museum displays and shelved. Years later, with advances in technology and knowledge of van Gogh, the museum decided to revisit the question. It was examined initially at the Atheneum, where a digital X-ray revealed an underpainting that looked like a self-portrait, which added to confidence about its authenticity. The museum in Amsterdam analyzed the artworks paint, materials. and style to conclude it was indeed done by van Gogh. One can say that slowly but surely, real progress is being made in van Gogh studies. Some of these floaters even turned out to be firmly anchored in van Goghs oeuvre, and Vase with Poppies, I am happy to say, is one of them, said Louis van Tilborgh, a senior researcher at the Van Gogh Museum. The artwork fits stylistically with other floral paintings he made shortly after arriving in Paris. The Atheneum now officially has two van Goghs in its collection. The other is a self-portrait painted in 1887. Vase with Poppies will go back on display in April. These studies have revealed just how much we still need to learn about Vincent and his growth as a painter, new to Paris and exploring new avenues for his art, Wadsworth CEO Thomas Loughman said. Demography is destiny. This old saw for economists means that, try as we might to change our economic future, it is already determined by our population and its makeup. The saying may overstate the case, yet for much of our nations history demographics have been a tailwind to our economy. Our population and workforce grew quickly and the typical American was young, energetic, and entrepreneurial. Not so much today. Our working-age population has all but stopped growing, and the typical American is much older. Baby boomers the largest age group are in their late 50s and 60s and retiring about 10,000 every day. Our demographics have turned into an economic headwind that will blow strong for a long time to come. To get back on course, we need to address our demographic destiny. The most obvious way an older population weighs on the economy is that it means there are fewer potential workers. When the boomers were entering the workforce in the 70s, the working-age population grew by close to 2 percent each year. A dramatic increase in women entering the workforce during this time also fueled growth. With boomers retiring and women now going to work as much as men, the workforce is hardly growing. This is unprecedented for the American economy. Throughout our history we could count on an ample supply of workers to power our growth. So, you ask, what about those millennials, that large age group now in their 20s and 30s? But most of them are already in the workforce, and the opioid crisis and incarceration are hitting this age group hard, making it less likely that those affected will get to work anytime soon. One struggle for an economy with an aging population is that older workers slow productivity growth. Productivity is a measure of how much we produce given how many people are working and the hours they work. It is the key to our standard of living. Strong and growing productivity means we are producing more with less effort. This is obviously a wonderful thing. Equally obvious is that slower productivity growth is not so good. Productivity growth has throttled way back over the last decade. And its no coincidence this happened at the same time the leading edge of the boomers aged into their 60s. In my research with colleagues Adam Ozimek and Dante DeAntonio, we found something astonishing: As much as half of the productivity slowdown over the last decade is due to the aging workforce. I had hoped we would find evidence of what we call the wise man theory. That is, when boomers retire, it hurt the businesses they leave as they take important idiosyncratic knowledge with them things it would take years for younger workers to learn. The businesses are thus diminished when the boomers leave. That was my hope because Im a boomer. I was convinced that when I retire (not happening anytime soon), Moodys would have a tough time adjusting (smiley face). Thats not what we found. An old workforce that dings productivity is explained by what we call the albatross theory: Boomers are hanging on to their jobs, keeping younger colleagues from realizing their fully productive potential. Maybe the younger workers are more energetic and willing to take more risks. The boomers may be less willing to adopt new technologies, or their companies reluctant to invest in tools and training lest the boomers retire before the returns from those investments can be reaped. The reality is that my younger colleagues at Moodys will likely flourish when I finally leave, lifting productivity (very big smiley face). If you buy what Im saying, aging is a big problem for the U.S., but it threatens to be overwhelming for many other countries. The working-age population is already declining quickly in an increasing number of places, including China, Germany, Japan, and Russia. But dont despair. We can change our demographic destiny. We can do this by significantly increasing foreign immigration. Indeed, the reason we are in a better place demographically than much of the rest of the world is that we already allow significant numbers of immigrants into our country. Many other countries dont, and probably never will. President Donald Trump wants to restrict immigration in the U.S., but we need to do the opposite. We should allow many more immigrants. Highly skilled and educated immigrants for sure, but we will also need less skilled and educated immigrants. We must also turn undocumented immigrants into legal workers. More immigrants mean more workers and stronger productivity growth. Immigrants are by definition risk-takers only the most intrepid leave their home country for a strange new one and are more likely to start businesses and innovate. A fundamental pillar of American economic success has been our openness to the rest of world and their peoples. Remember that, and our destiny is bright. __________ Mark Zandi is chief economist at Moodys Analytics. Contact him at help@economy.com As I watched Keira Knightley float through The Aftermath on a cashmere cloud of nice clothes, elegantly attired and showcased in one scene after another, it occurred to me everyone should be photographed like that at least once. Then I remembered Knightley has already been photographed like that. About half a dozen times, no less, which comes from working with directors like Joe Wright (Pride and Prejudice, Atonement, Anna Karenina). So its a high bar for Knightley, who gets a lot of period roles and wears a lot of awesome period outfits. Even by those standards, she looks swell in The Aftermath, playing a British woman living in the chaos of a surly, defeated Germany just after WWII. Its funny you bring that up, because this is the first time that I worked really closely with the director of photography. Like a real, close collaboration. And I think you see that, where the camera, and what its seeing, functions as a character in the film, Knightley said, referring to her partnership with cinematographer Franz Lustig on The Aftermath, directed by James Kent of Testament of Youth. Lustigs camera brings a lush formality to The Aftermath that nods to the classic, high-style movies of the era, and that also feels appropriate to the heightened passions the story invokes. Knightley plays Rachael, the upper-class wife of a British officer (Jason Clarke) in charge of the Allied force occupying Hamburg just after Germanys surrender. He oversees the tense, wary peace between the Germans and the British occupiers, and its part of his job to hunt down former Nazis trying to blend in with civilians. Like, maybe, the handsome German architect (Alexander Skarsgard) who is hosting them in his mansion. Hes lost his wife to the war, and Rachaels lost a son. Their grief eventually becomes the source of mutual understanding, leading to an intimacy that threatens to become perilous. Knightley is now a mum herself, and I asked her whether being a parent affected the way she played a heartsick mother. I think I play everything differently now that Im a parent, said Knightley, who is married to musician James Righton. They have a 3-year-old daughter. Obviously, it just has a impact on everything, your point of view about everything. Certainly, a woman who doesnt have a child could play this part, and do a perfectly good job, but I think there are certainly nuances that the experience brings to you that I might not have thought about before I had a kid. She uses those nuances in The Aftermath to take the place of the extensive study she ordinarily does in gearing up for a role. Im somebody that likes to do a lot of research, but in this case, I didnt. I didnt want to talk to people whod lost children, I didnt want to pry into their grief. I didnt feel comfortable doing that in any way. I read various things. I went online and read very the personal account of a woman whod lost a child, and she made an interesting observation. We have a word in English for a woman whos lost a husband, but no word for a parent whos lost a child. Because its too awful to think about, too awful to even name. Suddenly, in place of this thing that was such a huge and central part of your life, now theres this gaping hole of nothingness. This is the first time Ive interviewed an actor and the phrase gaping hole of nothingness has come up, and it doesnt reflect Knightleys cheerful mood during our conversation. But The Aftermath is serious, and Knightley was seriously keen to appear in the movie, adapted from the novel by Rhidian Brook, who based the story loosely on his grandfathers experiences as an officer in postwar Germany. She thinks the movie, though rooted in history, speaks to the current state of things. Both in the U.K., where citizens are bitterly divided politically, and in the States, where divisions also abound. When I started looking into the history of the Allies in Germany after the war, and how all sides were able to start the process of rebuilding, I wondered, first of all, how the f- did they do that? Knightley said. Youve spent the last six years literally killing each other, and now you are working together to build something. In studying the situation, what I found was that it all starts with everybody learning to see each other as human beings again. She doesnt think the term greatest generation is overused. The real triumph of that generation is what they did after the war. They were able to achieve the longest period of peace that has ever been known in Europe, she said. When you actually think about that, its truly heroic. I ask Knightley, whos played a few heroes in her day, what roles she wants her daughter to see. Oh, god. I dont want her to see anything. Ill be really happy if she reaches age 24 and hasnt seen a one. My aim is never to show her anything. Why? I have no idea. I feel a little embarrassed about it, for some reason. I suppose I could stand to show her Pirates of the Caribbean. And I would be happy that she would take some satisfaction in the fact that mommy was really good at fighting pirates." Imagine you are at lunch with 19 of your former middle school teachers. One shows up with a 1984 grade book with your test scores in it. Another, who helped you make bullets in metal shop, talks about how he used to prank that social studies teacher now holding your grades. The science teacher who made batteries from salt water and tin foil sits genially among them all. It is loud. Orders are flying for French onion soup, chicken dumplings, french fries, apple sauce. Your head is spinning. Are you dreaming? Are you dead? This was my Tuesday. I party-crashed a lunch of teachers from Beverly Hills Middle School. What would they remember of me? Remember of any of the easily 50,000 or more kids theyd taught over decades in one of suburban Phillys grittiest towns, Upper Darby? I knew only this: In the 1980s they had somehow managed to glue together Greek immigrant kids, Vietnamese refugees, kids of Catholic and Protestant-American parents, and sent us off as a hormonal mass of humanity to another grit factory, Upper Darby High. They did so at a place that was so NOT Hollywood: Beverly Hills was a monster of a building. Had a musty auditorium. Faced noisy trolley tracks and drew kids from row houses and twins crammed along the West Philadelphia border. >>READ MORE: My neighbor was a basketball star. Then came ordinary life. | Maria Panaritis I knew at least one teacher remembered me: Joyce Ash (now Hurt) from seventh grade science. She had emailed after recognizing my name in an Inquirer column. She told me about the lunch. I began begging to spy on the monthly reunion bash. The rest is history. >> READ MORE: Yo, Suburbs! All the way from Upper Darby, Im your new columnist. On Tuesday afternoon, I drove to Charlottes Restaurant in Newtown Square, walked inside with sweaty palms, and it began: a march into madness. A man approached with wire-rimmed glasses and a familiar cherubic smile. My brain sorted through a tangle of Air Supply and J. Geils Band lyrics before locating the spot in the cerebral cortex where this persons name had resided, untouched, since 1982. Mr. Schramm! Print shop. He taught 11-year-olds to make business cards, notepads, and the monthly school newspaper, the Junior Post. I once partied over franks and beans at Schramms house. Won a game of Clue against all the other Junior Post nerds. Wouldnt have missed it! Almost did, Mr. Schramm said. I just got out of the hospital last week. I got a pacemaker put in. Lunch organizer and retired foreign language teacher Gay Marshall had warned everyone I was coming. How old are you? I asked Mr. Schramm. Seventy-six, he said. God bless you, I said, and then asked: Its Dave, right? (I called him Dave!) Then Bob Frederick, the assistant principal whose duties the Junior Post in 1981 described thusly: "Mr. Frederick works with disciplinary problems every day, and he has to take care of the school money. As a student who would steer clear of both detention and income growth in the decades ahead, I knew Mr. Frederick only from a distance. He surprised me, though, with this: Hed been the one who launched a weekend Poconos camping trip that gave us poorer kids our first experience with the woods at night. I gave him a high five. That trip killed. Teachers were howling as they circled two banquet tables. I tried to identify them, one by one, but it was like staring at a strobe light. I locked eyes with one across a table. Me: Are ... you ALGEBRA?" She nodded. Me: "MISS BALAWENDER? Karen Balawender: YES! We were shouting like chimpanzees. She told me she has pictures of me at home. That I was a math sleuth who helped run the make-pretend school bank. This was news to me. A boisterous baritone rolled through the room. I turned and there he was: Same grasshopper-like build, same dark hair, brown eyes, wiry energy, and dark-rimmed glasses he wore in class 35 years ago. Mr. Coren. Eighth-grade social studies. I loved this guy. Coren: Somebody said youre gonna be here. Me: You dont even remember me. Coren: I do. And I have my grade book with your grades in it. Me: Oh no. You Do NOT. Coren: I do. I seriously do. Me: THAT IS SO GROSS." Bill Coren plopped down a red, spiral-bound grade book. Told me he has all but two from the 35 years he taught at BHMS, starting in 1972. He flipped it open as I tried not to faint. You got a 100 on your test in the second quarter and you led, he said with the same rapid-fire cadence I remembered. You got the only hundred on the test. Second quarter oh. Whoa! Is that you? YES. Thats a late assignment right there. ... Lets see over here. (Page flips.) Panaritis. ..." So these were the old teachers. This was why they have stuck to the brain, even if only as fuzzy memories. They loved each other, I realized. They loved us just as much, lower-middle-class kids who came from loving families, mostly," as Miss Ash (now Joyce Hurt) so gingerly put it to me. Our diversity forced them to be extra creative in class. They were fearless. >> READ MORE: Where Dreams Began: Upper Darby schools, now cutting costs, launched Tina Fey and others in the arts Principal Mel Brodsky (also at the lunch) had their back. He let them design theme-based weeks where wed come into school in costume: The Roaring Twenties, Mesopotamia, the Civil War. Coren once commandeered the public address system to prank Brodsky - and he didnt get fired for it. Metal shop teacher Jim Doyle and the other shop teachers would torment Coren during parent-teacher meetings. And on and on. You wouldnt believe the stuff we did, Doyle said. I believe. And I cant say thank you enough. For any readers interested in sending a remembrance to Maria or digitally through the Google form embedded in this story, shell be happy to forward them to your old teacher. Here are names of all from Beverly Hills Middle School who gathered for the reunion lunch: Bob Keller, Bob Frederick, Lee Urwiler, Mark Graboyes, Phil Over, Gay Marshall, Dave Schramm, Jim Doyle, Wayne Burns, Barbara Shafer, Karen Balawender, Dan Houck, Bill Elder, Mel Brodsky, Merle Horowitz, Beverly Nicholas, Barbara Mendell, Joyce Ash (Hurt), Bill Coren. People, including Khalil Darden, 18, of Penn Hills, Pa., center, and Pennsylvania State Rep. Summer Lee, right, protest after they learned a not guilty verdict in the homicide trial of former East Pittsburgh police Officer Michael Rosfeld, Friday, March 22, 2019, at the Allegheny County Courthouse in downtown Pittsburgh, Pa. A jury acquitted Rosfeld, a former police officer Friday in the fatal shooting of Antwon Rose II, an unarmed teenager as he was fleeing a high-stakes traffic stop outside Pittsburgh, a confrontation that was captured on video and led to weeks of unrest. Read more PITTSBURGH (AP) Gunshots were fired overnight through the office window of the attorney for a white police officer acquitted in the shooting death of an unarmed black teenager a verdict that left Pittsburgh a city on edge Saturday. The jury's decision late Friday in the killing of 17-year-old Antwon Rose II left his family distraught but not surprised and touched off a nighttime demonstration by about 100 people that led to no arrests or property damage. Pittsburgh police braced for more protests in the coming days, putting officers on 12-hour shifts. Five to eight shots were fired into the building where defense attorney Patrick Thomassey works, police in nearby Monroeville said. Police said they had been staking out the place as a precaution when they left to answer another call around midnight, and that was when bullets hit a window and the front wall. No one was hurt. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld was charged with homicide for shooting Rose in the back as the teenager ran away from a traffic stop last June. Rosfeld walked out of the courtroom a free man Friday after jurors rejected the prosecution's argument that he acted as Rose's "judge, jury and executioner." "I hope that man never sleeps at night," Rose's mother, Michelle Kenney, said of Rosfeld, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none." The verdict leaves Rose's family to pursue the federal civil rights lawsuit they filed last August against Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh, a small municipality about 10 miles (16 kilometers) from downtown Pittsburgh. Rose's death one of many high-profile killings of black men and teens by white officers in recent years spurred angry protests in the Pittsburgh area last year, including a late-night march that shut down a major highway. After the verdict, a group of about 100 protesters headed to the trendy East Liberty neighborhood, a few miles from the downtown Pittsburgh courthouse, where they blocked intersections and briefly entered two hotels, chanting "17" for Rose's age and reading a poem written by Rose. Police said the demonstrations were peaceful and only a few garbage cans and newsstands were kicked over, both of which were quickly picked back up. Rose was riding in an unlicensed taxi that had been involved in a drive-by shooting minutes earlier when Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot the teenager in the back, arm and side of the face as he ran away. The former officer told jurors he thought Rose or another suspect had a gun pointed at him, insisting he fired to protect himself and the community. Neither teen was holding a weapon when Rosfeld opened fire, though two guns were later found in the car. The 12-person jury including three black members saw video of the fatal confrontation. The acquittal came after less than four hours of deliberations on the fourth day of the trial. Rose "posed no threat whatsoever to Rosfeld or others," said the family's lawyer, Fred Rabner. "Make no mistake, there is nothing reasonable or appropriate about the manner Officer Rosfeld took Antwon's life." Thomassey, the defense lawyer, told reporters that Rosfeld is "a good man. He said to me many times, 'Patrick, this has nothing to do with the kid's color. I was doing what I was trained to do.'" Thomassey said he hopes the city remains calm and "everybody takes a deep breath and gets on with their lives." Rosfeld had worked for the East Pittsburgh Police Department for only a few weeks and was sworn in just hours before the shooting. Prosecutor Jonathan Fodi argued that Rosfeld had acted as "judge, jury and executioner" and that the video evidence showed "there was no threat" to the officer. "We don't shoot first and ask questions later," the prosecutor added. But a defense expert testified Rosfeld was within his rights to use deadly force to stop suspects he thought had been involved in a shooting. Prosecutors did not call their own use-of-force expert. "The prosecution's handling of this case, particularly the decision not to call a police expert, raises many questions," said Reggie Shuford, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania. Shortly before the traffic stop, Rose had been riding in the front seat of the cab when another occupant, Zaijuan Hester, in the back, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street, hitting one in the abdomen. Hester, 18, pleaded guilty last week to aggravated assault and firearms violations. He told a judge that he, not Rose, did the shooting. Prosecutors had charged Rosfeld with an open count of homicide, meaning the jury had the option of convicting him of murder or manslaughter. Associated Press writers Michael Rubinkam in northeastern Pennsylvania and Keith Srakocic in Pittsburgh contributed to this story. Rose family attorney S. Lee Merritt (left) and Michelle Kenney, center, mother of Antwon Rose II, walk toward members of the media following the closing arguments in the homicide trial of former East Pittsburgh Police officer Michael Rosfeld, Friday, March 22, 2019. at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. (Nate Smallwood / Pittsburgh Tribune-Review via AP, Pool) Read more Former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld was found not guilty Friday night at the Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh. The verdict ends a contentious case that has divided the region for nine months. It did not end the controversy. The trial began Tuesday morning and the jurors weighed evidence, testimony and arguments for four days. Jurors then had to decide whether Rosfeld was justified when he killed Antwon Rose II, who 13 minutes earlier had been in a car during a drive-by shooting in North Braddock. Minutes after the verdict became known, a crowd gathered on the steps of the courthouse, proclaiming Rose was a freedom fighter. Shortly before 9:30 p.m., people outside the courthouse began singing What side are you on my people? The response: The freedom side. When they left the courthouse, Roses mother and sister showed no emotion as they left on Ross Street. They were escorted by a deputy sheriff and entered a private car to leave the area. As television cameras recorded the family leaving, an unidentified woman bystander said, Its crazy. Youre taking pictures but you can shoot somebody on camera and not be convicted. The verdict was too fast, said Roses aunt, Carolyn Morrison of Rankin, as she entered the courthouse prior to the verdict. The trial was too fast. The verdict was too fast. It was all too fast. Metal barricades lined the sidewalks around the courthouse to keep people out of the street. The city had prepared for the verdict by deploying Public Works snow plows and police officers around the courthouse in the citys downtown. The jury got the case at 4:38 p.m., with the options of a not-guilty verdict, or first-degree and third-degree murder, as well as the lesser charges of voluntary and involuntary manslaughter as part of their deliberations. The verdict came less than five hours later. Under Pennsylvania law, an officer is justified in using force when he believes it is necessary to prevent death or serious injury to himself or others, or if he believes it necessary to prevent a suspects escape from arrest. That suspect, the law continues, must have committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony and pose a danger to human life. The killing of Rose spurred multiple protests over the summer. The week after it occurred, District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala Jr.s office filed a single homicide count against Rosfeld, of Verona, who turns 31 on Sunday. A verdict could bring new disturbances, and local law enforcement and businesses have been planning for that possibility for weeks. Both the jury selection held in Dauphin County because of the cases publicity and the trial moved along briskly. Over 2 days, county Chief Trial Deputy District Attorney Dan Fitzsimmons and Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Fodi put on 21 witnesses. On Thursday afternoon and into Friday morning, defense attorney Patrick Thomassey presented just two: Rosfeld, and a use-of-force expert. Common Pleas Judge Alexander P. Bicket presided. Early Friday, the jury composition shifted when one white woman was dismissed from service and a white man moved from the alternate pool to the panel that went into deliberations. The final 12-member jury seven men and five women, including three black jurors - began its deliberations early Friday evening. After the prosecution closed, Thomassey filed a motion for acquittal, contending that the prosecution had failed to show evidence of malice. We have a police officer who is doing his duty, he said. Its not the hardness of heart and the wickedness thats required for first-degree or third-degree murder. Its just not. He is doing his duty. Bicket, though, denied the motion. Thomassey them presented Rosfeld an unusual move in a murder trial. For just under an hour and a half, the former officer told the jury that he thought Antwon or Hester had pointed a weapon at him. I did it to protect myself and the community, he said. Why three shots? Rosfeld said he has been trained to fire until the threat is eliminated. But when he saw the threat lying on the ground, wounded, trying to breathe, he said, I was upset, shocked. The defenses use-of-force expert, former state trooper Clifford Jobe, said he couldnt find fault in Rosfelds handling of the encounter. In their closings Friday afternoon, the attorneys chose very different pieces of evidence on which to focus. Thomassey zoomed in on the drive-by shooting that preceded the encounter between Rosfeld and Rose, and their reaction to being pulled over. Mr. Rosfeld didnt wake up that day and decide to shoot someone, but Antwon Rose II and Zaijuan Hester did, he told the jury. If Rose and Hester did nothing wrong, why did they run? he asked jurors. You and I wouldnt do that. Then he answered his own question. They knew what they did, and they wanted to get away. He sought to cast doubt on the video evidence in the case, emphasizing that the videos were recorded by witnesses who were some distance from the scene. Rosfeld, by contrast, was about eight yards away from Antwon when he fired, the defense attorney said. At one point, he stood a few feet from the jury and lifted a gun that had been used as evidence in the case, pointing it at the wall beside the jury. About that far, he said over the weapon. About eight yards. Who had a better view of what was happening? Prosecutor Jonathan Fodi countered in closing that Mr. Rosfeld could not have reasonably felt threatened by Antwon. Every single time the defendant pulled the trigger and pointed it at Antwon Roses body, he had the intent to kill. Every one of them is backward to frontward. Every one of them at a time when Antwon Rose posed no risk to Michael Rosfeld, the prosecutor said. When an officer fails to wait for backup; fails to give commands; when they deceive us; when they point a deadly weapon at a 17-year-old running away, that rises to the level of murder, he said. Staff writer Liz Navratil contributed to this article. Springfield High School sophomore Deborah Persico, 16, marches during the March for Our Lives march and rally in Philadelphia on March 24, 2018. Read more Its been one year since droves took to streets across the nation to protest gun violence following the slaying of 17 students and staffers at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla. On the anniversary of the student-led March for Our Lives demonstration Sunday, student activists in Philly are holding A Rally to Remember in LOVE Park as a reminder that theres still work to be done. Philly isnt alone while its not clear exactly how many, a number of similar events are happening nationwide, but this time without one larger march anchoring them, like last years demonstration in Washington. The Philly event, slated for noon to 3 p.m., will feature speeches and performances from students, activists, and artists, as well as a memorial where rally-goers can pay tribute to loved ones lost to gun violence, said Alex Franzino, a 17-year-old junior at Hopewell Valley Central High School in Pennington, N.J., and the director of operations for March for Our Lives Philadelphia. We really try to focus on, I mean, obviously carrying the message from Parkland, but also connecting it back to urban gun violence," Franzino said. READ MORE: Meet the students who helped organize the first Philadelphia March for Our Lives An organizer at last years march told The Inquirer she wasnt sure if there would be a sophomore event. A permit on file for Sunday lists an expected attendance of about 125 people, said Lauren Cox, a spokesperson with the Mayors Office. A police presence will be on site, she said. Even if its, like, just 30 people, were OK with that," Franzino said. "Whoever can come. Hopefully, since its in such a central location, like LOVE Park, people walking by will want to stop by and check it out and just see whats going on. Whats going on across the nation A number of smaller events similar to the Philadelphia rally are happening Sunday in communities around the nation the March for Our Lives Fort Thomas chapter in Kentucky has a march slated, while March for Our Lives Manhattan is hosting an afternoon of performances. Theres an Activism for Our Lives in L.A. and a Looking Back and Moving Forward event in Austin, Texas. Events in places like Sarasota, Fla., and Indianapolis happened earlier this month. There isnt an anniversary march listed on the national organizations website, but something a little different is planned. On Tuesday, the group plans for a pop-up gun-violence-prevention art installation outside the U.S. Capitol, according to an email outlining the organizations plans, while March for Our Lives D.C. will host a Lobby Day Monday, where members will deliver letters demanding lawmakers pass gun-violence reforms. Franzino said she may have been a little surprised when there didnt appear to be an anniversary march planned by the national organization, but she suspected a shift in focus. I think what it is is, we can do a lot of marches or a lot of rallies, but what will really change it is changing the laws," Franzino said. "We love the marching, we love doing events like that, but I know as an organization, we do also like to focus on just changing the gun laws specifically, too. The national organization did not respond to a request for comment. Scott Charles, trauma outreach coordinator at Temple University Hospital and a gun-violence educator, said the organizers efforts were noble and the possibility of smaller attendance this year is unfortunate. Here we are a year later, and we just dont have the appetite for it. We just dont have the stamina," Charles said. "It just doesnt feel the same way. So much has happened in the interim. He said raising awareness is hard work. I and others who are engaged in this work, we just keep putting our heads down, we keep going, and there arent really anniversaries for us, because every day is a new day with sadness in it," he said. READ MORE: Her grandfather survived a mass shooting. Then she did, too. Now shes a House intern during gun background check vote. READ MORE: A year after Parkland, still not enough research into gun violence prevention | Opinion READ MORE: The world is listening to Parkland teens. Some Philly kids wonder: Why not us? READ MORE: Ordinary occurrence of gunfire in Philly should be anything but ordinary | Helen Ubinas The Mariner East 2 pipeline, seen here during its construction in western Pennsylvania in 2017, was recently brought online by Energy Transfer Partners. Read more The embattled Mariner East 2 pipeline set the stage for an obscene war of words between a Chester County resident and a pipeline worker, county District Attorney Thomas P. Hogan said Wednesday. Hogan railed against the out-of-town worker in a statement, calling his use of a demeaning word and a sexist epithet in a social media exchange inappropriate and unprofessional. We will not allow our citizens to be bullied," Hogan said, adding that he had discussed the incident with Sunoco Pipeline LP, the pipelines operator, and Pipeliners Local 798, the union representing the worker. Hogans statement came weeks after he initiated a criminal investigation into Sunoco, which started pumping natural gas liquids through the pipeline last Dec. 29. The incident in December unfolded on Instagram, when the worker posted the slurs in a comment on a post from an outspoken critic of Mariner East 2. She responded by raising concern about welds along the pipeline, specifically mentioning manipulated data and the integrity of the pipes used. The worker sent a second message assuring her his welds were fine. But if my weld was bad, I hope its in your backyard so I can watch your house burn down on the news, he added, apparently referring to when a similar pipeline exploded in Beaver County, Pa., last year. The woman, who spoke with the Inquirer and Daily News on the condition of anonymity because she said she feared retaliation, said this was the second time a pipeline worker had sent her harassing messages, after a similar incident last summer on Twitter. These are the very same workers whom the safety of my family and my community relies on, said the woman, who lives with her children near the pipeline. This type of behavior is unacceptable. These are also the workers whose jobs are being given a priority over our safety and our environment. Local 798 Business Manager Danny Hendrix said the pipeline worker had been admonished and called in by his peers." He said he hoped such trash talk would not be seen again. Were a professional organization here, and we dont act that way, Hendrix said from Oklahoma, where he oversees 8,200 members of his union in 42 states. Its not operable for us to talk to the opposition that way. Were trying to educate people about what we do, and bashing them doesnt help anyone. Late last month, Hogan took the unprecedented step of opening a criminal investigation into Energy Transfer Partners and the Mariner East Project. He appointed Seth Weber, a former assistant U.S. attorney in Philadelphia, to lead the investigation as special prosecutor. In announcing the probe, Hogan accused Gov. Tom Wolf and state agencies of failing to hold Sunoco Pipeline accountable for numerous delays, construction errors, and environmental violations. He has yet to outline which laws he believes Sunoco and its affiliates violated. Sunoco has bristled at the investigation, with a spokesperson promising to aggressively defend against Hogans baseless accusations. Shannon Healy and her fiance Kevin Bullman bought a house on Lenni Road in Middletown Township in early in 2017, only to discover that Sunoco Pipeline LP planned to install twin pipelines in their yard. Read more Two months after Angela and Matthew Cibelli moved into their family's dream home in Uwchlan Township in 2016, a representative of Sunoco Pipeline LP stopped by their house to outline upcoming construction plans for the Mariner East project. "What construction?" replied Angela, unaware that the previous owner had signed an easement allowing Sunoco to occupy their backyard to build two new underground pipelines across their Marchwood property. Shannon Healey experienced a similar sinking feeling when she learned Sunoco planned to dig up the property that she and fiance Kevin Bullman bought last year on Lenni Road in Middletown Township. Sunoco had paid the previous owner for the easement. "We wouldn't have bought here if we had known," said Healy. The $5.1 billion Mariner East project, which aims to deliver 675,000 barrels a day of propane and other highly volatile gas liquids across Pennsylvania to Marcus Hook through three pipelines, has produced considerable anxiety in some neighborhoods in Chester and Delaware Counties, the most densely populated areas along its 350-mile route. The project has unsettled the residential real estate market, as some fearful homeowners sold out ahead of construction, and some buyers moved in unaware of the forthcoming disruption. Many who remained are basically stuck until the dust settles, uncertain of the value of their homes. "I'm scared of it," said Kate White, 57, whose house on Lenni Road in Middletown is less than 10 feet from the pipelines. "I would love to move, but who would buy my house now?" Many homeowners said they were aware their property contained an easement for an 87-year-old Sunoco fuel pipeline, but did not know that it was refurbished in 2014 as the Mariner East 1 to transport gas liquids from the booming Marcellus Shale region. And others said they had no clue that Sunoco planned to build two new Mariner East pipelines to expand the system's capacity from 75,000 barrels a day to 675,000 barrels a day, though the project had received media coverage, and some opposition groups formed to challenge it. "When I found this house, I thought it was perfect," said Ray Magliano, who paid $300,000 at the end of 2015 for a three-bedroom house on Wildwood Avenue in Glen Riddle, not knowing that Sunoco had paid the previous owner to expand its easement. The new pipelines run 36 feet from his front door. "At the end of the day, I don't want to live here anymore," said Magliano. He said a lawyer advised him it would cost more than it was worth to challenge the sale. Zillow, the real estate website, now estimates his home is worth 10 percent less than what he paid for it. Real estate professionals say it is impossible to measure the pipelines' impact on home values until the project is completed and the physical scars on the landscape heal. "After the grass grows back and things settle down, then I'd think you'd have a better sense of the impact on property values," said Noelle Barbone, an agent for Weichert Realtors. But the project's completion is indefinite. The Mariner East 2, the first of the two new pipelines, is nearing completion, though the project has been interrupted and pushed back several times because of regulatory and legal challenges. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission in 2014 affirmed the project as a public utility, allowing it to obtain easements by eminent domain. The PUC is currently reviewing the latest stoppage, which affects construction in West Whiteland Township in Chester County, but also halts operations on the existing Mariner East 1 pipeline. Sunoco is owned by Energy Transfer Partners LP of Dallas. When the Mariner East 2 is completed, Sunoco plans to begin work on its parallel expansion pipeline, called the Mariner East 2X. The company has not announced an expected completion date for the ME2X. With much of Mariner East's pathway currently heaped with pipe and dirt, and shrouded by 25-foot high sound barriers, brokers say it is generally not a good time to sell. "The sites are pretty ugly and invasive," said Clark Kendus, a broker with Patrick Welsh Real Estate in Swarthmore. "If you were backed up against it and tried to sell it while it's going on, that would be a detriment." Brokers cited conflicting anecdotes about recent pipeline sales. Some say the market is so strong for sellers that the short-term visual impact has barely impacted prices. "Currently, there is a shortage of inventory, and I don't think it will affect values significantly," said Joe McArdle, a sales associate at Keller Williams Realty Group in Limerick. He said his firm recently worked with a buyer who expressed concern about a pipeline in the front yard of a property. "The buyer went ahead, and in the market we're in now, there was still a bidding war," said McArdle. "There will be some people who would never purchase property near a pipeline, and there will be others who are perfectly comfortable with it," said Kathy McQuilkin, a RE/Max broker in Exton. "The key is to disclose." Mary Reish spent much of 2015 in a state of anxiety and sleeplessness over the Mariner East project before she and her husband, Robert, decided to sell their Colonial Drive house in Marchwood and retire to Florida. Reish said the real estate agent disclosed Sunoco's pending easement offer to potential buyers, but instructed Reish to keep her fears to herself. "When I sold my house, I wasn't allowed to say anything to anybody," said Reish. "The real estate agent was very careful to do all the talking because she knew I would say the wrong thing." The buyers of her house, who paid the Reish's asking price of $330,000 in early 2016, did not respond to an interview request. Like Reish, Jen Hollywood-Showell and her husband, Charles Showell, were so worried about the pipeline that they decided to move before construction began last year behind their Marchwood house. They disclosed Sunoco's pending offer to potential buyers, and still got the full asking price of $404,900. The family moved within the Downingtown Area School District, but Hollywood-Showell still visits her old neighborhood, where her former house's backyard has been cleared of trees, and covered with a 50-foot wide swath of timber for construction vehicles. "My heart aches for those people who stayed because the construction is just awful," she said. "But once that's done and gone, you've got this kind of bomb running through your backyard." Some buyers, fearful about the long-term safety concerns, are unwilling to pay any price to live near the pipeline. McQuilkin said she represents a buyer who is moving back to the West Chester area from the Midwest and instructed her to steer clear of the Mariner East 2. "It's influencing his consideration of property in that area," she said. One area where the project may have had a measurable real estate impact is in the Middletown catchment area of Glenwood Elementary School, which has become the focus of a well-publicized campaign by fearful parents. A valve station is also located about 1,000 feet from the school, which opponents say puts children at undue risk. Alec Schwartz, a broker with Coldwell Banker Preferred, said that home prices in the Glenwood catchment area have lagged by 7 percent over the last five years compared with prices in the three other elementary schools of the Rose Tree Media school district. Schwartz said that houses in the Glenwood catchment also took two days longer to sell than houses in other parts of the Rose Tree Media district, a reversal from 2012-2013, when Glenwood homes sold seven days more quickly. "There's no other reason than the pipeline to think there should be a difference," said Schwartz. Tom and Diane Smith sold their Middletown house this year near the former Granite Run Mall to get their 8-year-old daughter out of the Glenwood school. "How could I live with sending my child to that school every day?" he said. Though the Smiths lived well outside the half-mile zone on either side of the pipeline that would be evacuated during an emergency opponents have dubbed it the "blast zone" their house did not sell quickly. They knocked down the price from $340,000 to $330,000 and covered the buyer's closing costs, before concluding the sale in March. They moved elsewhere in the Rose Tree Media district, served by another school. Allison Chabot and her husband, Michael, also decided this year to move away to get their two children out of Glenwood school. But they would be unable to recover their investment in their home on Pennell Road, adjacent to the pipeline path. So they left behind their home of nine years to foreclosure and moved into a rental. "People are trapped in their homes until the grass grows back and people forget," said Chabot. Chabot had become an active opponent of the pipeline, but the fight was exhausting and took a toll on her family and her private practice as a clinical psychologist. Many neighbors were resigned to the inevitability of the pipeline's completion, she said. "They say, 'We didn't want the pipeline, either, but please stop protesting it.' " A 2016 national report for the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America, a trade association, examined home sales over an eight-year period at five locations in separate states, including Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and concluded that "the presence of pipelines does not affect the value of a home or its insurability." But the INGAA study looked only at large, federally permitted natural-gas pipelines, some of which had been in service for up to six decades. It also only compared prices of houses next to the pipeline with those of other houses in the same development, a few hundred feet from the pipeline, rather than with a broader market. "I'm not sure these studies are apples-to-apples comparisons," said Eric Friedman, a resident of the Andover development in Thornbury Township, whose homeowner's association currently is fighting Sunoco's project before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Critics say Mariner East is different from a natural-gas pipeline. The Sunoco pipelines are designed to carry natural-gas liquids, such as propane, ethane and butane, which turn into a heavier-than-air vapor when they leak, and collect near the ground. There are few comparable gas-liquid pipelines in operation, but a 2015 explosion of a similar pipeline in West Virginia scorched a house about 700 feet away. "How do you put a price on the real estate negativity this is going to bring about?" said Michael Walsh, a mortgage consultant who bought a house in the Andover development in 2015, only to discover later that Sunoco planned to install the pipelines adjacent to his property. Walsh advises potential buyers to look closely at a seller's disclosure statements, as well as title reports, which may casually mention the presence of easements. "The buyer needs to take the time to look through a title commitment and then do research to find out what each of those easements entails," he said. Frank Wenzel, a sixth-grade math teacher at Tamaqua Area Middle School and head of the teacher's union, opposes arming teachers and school employees. Tamaqua Area School District in Schuylkill County has become the first in the state to pass a policy providing for teachers and other school employees to carry firearms. Read more TAMAQUA, Pa. The school board president said he imagines a sign posted outside each building, something like: "Staff members at this school are armed. If you wish to do harm, enter at your own risk." Others in the Schuylkill County town imagine very different scenes when they think of the Tamaqua Area School District's new policy to arm employees: A student stealing a teacher's gun. An employee accidentally firing a loaded weapon. A chaotic hallway, a stampede of students, a teacher not sure exactly who to aim at. The main drag in this once-thriving coal town alternates between empty storefronts and local businesses. A memorial stands to long-gone anthracite railroad workers. Hills rise around the borough; a train lumbers through carrying a few loads of the still-mined coal. After Columbine, the school district got metal detectors, which are no longer used. Now, students carry transparent backpacks. In the wake of the Parkland, Fla., school shooting, the Tamaqua board decided that wasn't enough. Last month, it unanimously passed a policy allowing teachers and other employees in their four schools to carry firearms, becoming the first in the state to do so. The measure reflects national anxiety about school shootings as well as the sharp disagreements about how to prevent them. "We're not trained law enforcement officers," said Frank Wenzel, head of the teachers' union. Teachers "might target shoot, but that's not the same as someone who's dealt with situations like a police officer would've. We're trained to educate and to teach, not react with a firearm in a dangerous situation." Nicholas Boyle, the 29-year-old school board member who spearheaded the new policy, says it is the best way to stop an active shooter. With enough staffers participating, a shooter wouldn't know who was armed and might be deterred from targeting the campus at all. "This is the end-game policy for, what if the apocalypse happens," Boyle said. "They say 'Our job's to teach,' and I agree with that, but as soon as the gunshots start happening, nobody's going to be teaching anymore." Guns have long been a way of life in this part of the state. Under the policy, administrators, teachers, or other employees of the district could volunteer to carry firearms during the school day. Boyle and school board president Larry Wittig hope to sign up about 20 to 30 staffers for training, then assign them to rotations so about 12 people three per school building are armed at a time. Public worry about school shootings heightened after 17 were killed at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland on Valentine's Day. In that tragedy's wake, gun-control advocates pushed universal background checks and other steps. Gun-rights proponents proposed arming teachers and fortifying schools, ideas supported by the National Rifle Association. At least 15 states already allow school employees to be armed, and 16 others allow school districts to approve armed-staffer policies, according to an early 2018 Vice News analysis. After the December 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, legislation to arm teachers or other school employees was introduced in 33 states, including Pennsylvania. But no law passed in the Keystone State; a proposal this session died in the House without a vote. Current state law does not specifically permit a school board to pass an armed-employee policy, nor does it explicitly prohibit it. Possessing weapons on school grounds is approved for a "lawful purpose," but that purpose is undefined. Tamaqua schools, which have about 2,500 students, have never had a mass shooting. Under the policy, the district's armed school staffers would be required to carry their handguns in holsters on their bodies. They would regularly complete firearms training courses, including instructions on when the use of deadly force is justified, along with lethal weapons training by the state police. Though the policy contains rules for "district-issued weapons," Wittig said they'd like teachers to use their personal firearms. The board also passed a separate policy providing a $2,000 yearly stipend and $250,000 in insurance for each employee who signs up. Boyle, heading the board's security committee, drafted the policy after reading about recent school shooters and examining area school districts that use resource officers, he said. Those designated armed guards would be too expensive for his district, Boyle said, based on a salary estimate of $120,000 per guard with five to 12 guards for the four schools. Some critics of the policy questioned the board's research and cost analysis. Liz Pinkey, a 45-year-old mother of three, said she thought the board should start the conversation over and involve local law enforcement, teaching staff, parents, and other community members. She is among a group of mothers who would prefer school resource officers and mental health services. "I don't think they honestly can say they've explored every other option," Pinkey said. "We do need to have a conversation about how is best to keep our kids safe but the best way to do that isn't two or three people in a room making deals." Boyle said employees would cover more ground than a school resource officer could; he and Wittig said the teachers would be better trained than police officers because their training will be specific to the local school buildings, an assertion critics questioned. Boyle said about 11 people had told him they were interested in carrying. "We will have, in essence, a Tamaqua School District police force," said Wittig, who stepped down last year as chairman of the state Board of Education after Inquirer reports about his past sexual relationships with teens, but remains the local school board president. The policy was passed at a sparsely attended school board meeting in September. After locals found out about it from an article this month in a newspaper, several showed up to a board meeting to protest. "The majority of teachers are against this policy. We do not want it; we do not feel that it is our responsibility to hold a gun and take this under our additional duties as teachers," Wenzel said at the meeting. The board has set a special meeting for Nov. 7 to hear alternative proposals. "I want to have this public discussion," Boyle said. "The policy could be rewritten, it could be changed, it could be thrown out. If somebody has a solution, I want to hear it." Meanwhile, Boyle said, district officials are moving forward, surveying staffers about their interest in participating and setting up training. The board will also work with police to prepare an emergency plan for a mass casualty situation. Blue Mountain School District, about 25 minutes southwest of Tamaqua, passed a confidential policy allowing for armed staffers in 2013, but it does not encourage the training and arming of teachers. The district has four armed custodial employees. "Our philosophy is that teachers' primary responsibility is to secure the safety of the students, not to engage in armed intruders. We do not have any teachers [armed] nor do we have plans to arm any teachers," said superintendent David Helsel. The Pennsylvania State Education Association, like the National Education Association, opposes arming teachers, and is conducting a legal review of the Tamaqua policy, a spokesman said. Three-quarters of American educators oppose the idea, according to a poll of NEA members. "I don't feel that it's the teachers' responsibility to have to carry guns to protect students," said Karen Tharp, 49, a former teacher and mother of Tamaqua graduates, who currently has one child and three grandchildren enrolled in district schools. "There are just hundreds of things that can go wrong in this scenario if this is not what you're trained to do." Tharp and other critics of the policy said they don't view it as a political or gun control issue. "This isn't pro-gun or anti-gun. This has nothing to do with whether I like guns," said Pinkey, who describes her family as gun-loving. "This is just not good, safe gun handling. It has to be loaded and immediately accessible, and that is just not what you want to have in a room full of 5-year-olds." This story has been updated to include information about Blue Mountain School District. Camille Parkinson (L) and Taylor Turner, two West Chester high school seniors who have both been active in politics and the gun control movement since the Parkland shooting, walk in West Chester Friday November 2, 2018. Read more Camille Parkinson won't be old enough to vote Tuesday. But that hasn't stopped the 17-year-old from knocking on doors in Chester County and asking people who can vote to do it. "[One woman] said: You're the first person that has come to my door and has talked to me about any candidates, and you're a high schooler," Parkinson recalled. She figures her voice could turn into someone's vote and she has a lot to say. The Henderson High senior is among a wave of young people mobilizing for the midterm elections whether to turn out voters or register themselves and energized specifically by the issue of gun violence. "What bothers me the most is going to school being safe, that's a human right. And I feel like that's being taken away from our generation," Parkinson said at a September gun-control event in Coatesville. "We're ready to fight and get laws changed." The country saw high school students take the national stage after 17 were killed in a February shooting in Parkland, Fla. The teenage survivors from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School spoke to lawmakers, appeared on news channels, and led a march of more than a million in Washington. Students across the country organized sister marches that March and school walkouts in April. Now, students, adult advocates, and polls alike say more young people are politically engaged. Many say the Parkland movement has stirred higher political engagement among a traditionally low-voting swath. Students in Philadelphia, the suburbs, and Pittsburgh are part of organizing efforts to push stricter gun laws; promote local, state, and federal candidates who support those laws; and register voters. Between 10,000 and 17,000 people attended the March for Our Lives in Philadelphia, said chairwoman Serita Lewis. Her chapter has since coordinated town hall meetings, voter registration, and work focusing on urban gun violence. "You finally see a whole bunch of kids who are mobilizing to say something of value, and also like the world is giving them permission," Lewis said. "Just the idea of people listening to the kids, it was really important." It also stirred discussion in neighborhoods plagued by everyday gun violence. The Philadelphia March for Our Lives chapter has worked on "cross-cultural, cross-community" conversation, and students have also helped their parents and relatives decide to vote, Lewis said. "There have been kids being shot in Philadelphia forever. What I loved was Parkland did not forget about those kids," said Parkinson. She was inspired to act partly by the death of Bianca Roberson, who had just graduated from Bayard Rustin High School in West Chester when she was shot dead in a road rage episode in 2017. Eighty percent of likely young voters indicated support for stricter gun laws; gun control was identified as the most important issue by 14- to 29-year-olds, according to an October poll. A Harvard poll last week indicated that voters under 30 are more likely to vote this year than they were in the 2014 and 2010 midterms. Since Parkland, more than 66,000 Pennsylvanians age 18 to 30 have registered to vote in Philadelphia and its four surrounding counties; while registration has increased overall, the jump among 18- to 30-year-olds increased by 234 percent in the nine months after Parkland compared with the nine months before, registration data shows. "I really think that this wave of activism is going to carry into the polls," said Taylor Turner, 17, another Henderson student who has been canvassing and helping classmates register. "I've just seen a lot more people who I generally didn't think would be involved with politics become especially involved." Turner's connection to the issue is personal: She spent her freshman year at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High. After her family moved back to West Chester, Turner stayed in touch with a group of Florida friends, especially Helena, Em, and Isabela. On Valentine's Day, Turner was shopping in a grocery store when her mother called and told her there been a shooting at her Florida school. Turner frantically texted everyone whose phone number she had. All eventually responded except Helena. The next day Em called. "She was just crying. And I could just tell," Turner recalled. Helena Ramsay, a 17-year-old Turner called "the sweetest person I've ever met," was shot and killed helping one of her best friends shield herself. Turner threw herself into organizing her school's walkout against gun violence, attended the Washington march with Parkinson, and decided to talk at some local events about Ramsay and the shooting. "I realized that I didn't want her death to just become another piece of data in a statistic about mass shootings in schools," Turner said. "I wanted to make sure that if she died because of a student with an AR-15, that her story becomes a piece of the puzzle that will ultimately fix this issue." Two groups Everytown for Gun Safety and one launched by former Arizona Rep. and shooting victim Gabby Giffords have with other organizations registered more than 50,000 youth voters across Pennsylvania and nine other states. March for Our Lives, the national group begun by Parkland students, has been on a voter outreach tour to drive "the largest youth turnout in history." "[It's] a whole generation, the active shooter generation, of kids who are sort of thinking about politics for the very first time. And they're doing it through the lens of gun violence and school shootings," said Peter Ambler, director of Giffords' group. Ritika Bajpai, a 20-year-old from Downingtown, will be voting for the first time. A University of Pittsburgh junior, she helped start a Students Demand Action chapter there after Parkland and has been registering voters and distributing candidate information. Last week, her group held a rally for the victims of the Oct. 27 shooting at Pittsburgh's Tree of Life synagogue. "Gun violence has always been an important issue for me," Bajpai said. "I have a 13-year-old brother and my main concern for him would always be is he going to go to school and get shot today?" Watching the passionate pleas by Parkland students after the shooting changed something for the students speaking out now. "Those Parkland students have created such a platform for other students to be able to talk about this and be respected by adults," Turner said. Now, "we're able to talk about it and be able to hold our own at the table." Staff writer Michele Tranquilli contributed to this article. Prizes Grand Prize Season Overall At the end of the season the overall Fantasy Enduro Champion will win an Enduro World Series ready, Pivot Firebird 29 outfitted with XTR M9100, Fox Suspension, PRO Components including the new 170mm Koryak dropper post and same Stans Flow EX rims that have landed on top of more than one EWS podium! Whether your goal is to conquer the EWS race series or just shred your local trails this bike is up to whatever challenge you give it, so get in the game for your chance to win this epic ride! First Place Prize Round 1: Rotorua, New Zealand Pick the best team for this round and you can walk away with an XTR 4-Piston Brake Set & RT-MT900 Rotors . MSRP of $815. Second Place Prize Round 1: Rotorua, New Zealand Pick the second best scoring team for this round and you can walk away with ME7 Shoes . MSRP of $200. Third Place Prize Round 1: Rotorua, New Zealand Pick the third fastest team for this round and you can walk away with XTR PD-M9120 Pedals . MSRP of $180. Fourth Place Prize Round 1: Rotorua, New Zealand Pick the team that scores enough points for fourth for this round and you can walk away with an XT 11-46T Cassette & Chain . MSRP of $150. Fifth Place Prize Round 1: Rotorua, New Zealand Pick the last team to make it into the top 5 for this round and you can walk away with a Lazer Coyote Helmet . MSRP of $80. Sixth Place Prize Round 1: Rotorua, New Zealand Pick the sixth fastest combination of rider for this round and you can walk away with a Pearl Izumi Versa Hoodie . Men's and women's sizing available. MSRP of $220. 3-Day Blackout Period Unlimited Trades Injury Icon Office Leagues Employees at Pivot, Muc-Off and more are battling it out behind closed doors in their Office Leagues. We're heading into the first round of the Fantasy Enduro Presented by Shimano. So far over 13,500 Pinkbike readers have picked their dream Enduro World Series team to be in the running to walk home with a Pivot Firebird 29er carbon frame kitted out with Shimano XTR and other prizes!Read on to see all the prizes up for grabs during the first round, learn more about how the league works and increase your chances of taking home a prize. See who is racing by checking the live updating and searchable form on the Enduro World Series website . Just scroll down and click on Participating Riders' to see who is entered into the race.There are prizes for each round, but now's the best time to enter a team so that you'll be in the running to win the Grand Prize!In order to avoid players copying each other's teams, all rider selections will be hidden for 72 hours before each race. Start playing mind games with your friends that youare shoulder-hopping your choices.You're allowed unlimited trades after each round. You can stick with what's working,change your whole team out after every race.We've added an injury icon to show high profile athletes who are injured. This is not foolproof or exhaustive, so you'll still need to do your own research into your picks. If you know of riders who are injured, mention them in the comments and well keep this updated.Offices can set up private leagues in addition to playing the main public league. Let the trash talk begin! Authentic Greek Tzatziki recipe from a Greek restaurant in Poros, Greece! SO simple and it tastes amazing! Goes great with lamb, pork, meatballs, gyros, chicken and bread. Greek yogurt, garlic, salt, pepper, cucumber and olive oil. Can make in advance and refrigerate 5 to 7 days. Great for a quick snack or parties! Remember this recipe. Pin this recipe to your favorite board now to remember it later! Pin This Recipe What is Greek Tzatziki Sauce? I got this recipe for Authentic Greek Tzatziki sauce on my trip to Greece. We had an amazing dinner at The Odyssey in Poros, Greece. The owner gave me a small recipe book with some of her traditional Greek recipes. This Tzatziki sauce was in the book and I couldnt wait to give it a try! What is Greek Tzatziki Sauce? Greek Tzatziki Sauce is a greek yogurt based sauce/dip with grated cucumbers, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Some recipes may also contain dill. How Do I Make Greek Tzatziki Sauce? Tzatziki sauce is incredibly easy to make. It took me about 10 minutes from start to finish. Just mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. After everything is mixed well, refrigerate a few hours to allow the flavors to develop. It will keep about 5 to 7 in the refrigerator. The most important aspect of this recipe is squeezing out all of the liquid from the cucumber. I grated the cucumber and then squeezed it with my fist. Once I had squeezed most of the liquid out, I wrapped the cucumber in paper towels and gave it one last squeeze before adding it to the Greek yogurt. Make sure to buy plain Greek yogurt for this recipe. I used full-fat Greek yogurt in my Authentic Greek Tzatziki. I havent tried this with low-fat or fat-free Greek yogurt, but I am sure it would be fine. What to Serve With Tzatziki Sauce? Tzatziki sauce is traditionally served with just about everything in Greece. I think we had it with every meal! Lamb, meatballs, chicken, gyros, bread everything. I made some naan bread to go with our Authentic Greek Tzatziki. I brushed the naan bread with olive oil. Next, I sprinkled it with some garlic and dried oregano. Finally, I drizzled some honey on top of the bread and baked it for about 5 minutes. SO good!! Here are a few recipes from the blog that would be great with this tzatziki sauce: Recipe Print Recipe Authentic Greek Tzatziki Author: Stephanie @ Plain Chicken Yield: 2 cups Prep Time 10 mins Total Time 10 mins Authentic Greek Tzatziki recipe from a Greek restaurant in Poros, Greece! SO simple and it tastes amazing! Goes great with lamb, pork, meatballs, gyros, chicken and bread. Greek yogurt, garlic, salt, pepper, cucumber and olive oil. Can make in advance and refrigerate 5 to 7 days. Great for a quick snack or parties! #greek #tzatziki #greekyogurt #dip Equipment: Box Grater Ingredients: 1 cup plus 2 Tbsp plain Greek yogurt cucumber, grated 2 to 3 garlic cloves pressed 2 Tbsp olive oil salt and pepper, to taste Instructions: Squeeze the water from the grated cucumber with your hands or paper towels. Combine the Greek yogurt, grated and squeezed cucumber, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop. Stir again before serving. Garnish with fresh dill if desired. Notes: Can make tzatziki sauce ahead of time and refrigerate. The tzatziki sauce will last 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Steph By National Review , March . 20, 2019 Kentucky governor Matt Bevin on Tuesday signed a bill that bans abortions chosen on the basis of an unborn childs sex, race, or disability. A court filing in the U.S. District Court in Louisville indicated that the governor has signed the bill, which included an emergency clause stipulating that it would go into effect immediately. 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 If you follow Louisville Ballet on social media, you may have noticed a statement posted to its channels last week. Titled An Open Letter Against Hate and Prejudice, it says we cannot and will not be bystanders to hate and prejudice. As artists we have a duty to challenge preconceptions respectfully and to tell the stories of those individuals and groups who make our city what it is and what it should aspire to become. The letter was posted after the company received hateful emails and phone calls over their upcoming performances of Human Abstract, an evening-length work by Australian choreographer Lucas Jervies that follows the relationship between two openly gay protagonists. Louisville Ballet on Instagram: Our hearts are filled with gratitude for those that have reached out in support. We will always stand for love and acceptance. For In 2017 Jervies staged an earlier version of Human Abstract on the company that explored his identity as a gay man and how societys prevailing view of the LGBTQ community has impacted his life. This 2019 version continues the exploration of the issues facing this community, and continues to push the boundaries of dance-theater and test the limits of dance artists, says Louisville Ballet artistic and executive director Robert Curran. But when the company released the ballets promotional materials, which feature a photo of two men holding hands, it received scathing responses. You should be ashamed of promoting perversion, immorality and filth and I dont want homosexual smut sent to my house are among some of the tamer examples. Louisville Ballet on Instagram: If you love him, let him go. This love story like no other opens in less than two weeks at The Kentucky Center! #HumanAbstract Tickets are I was not expecting the hateful rhetoric, says Curran. A gay man himself, he says he has always remained optimistic about being accepted and loved, although hes often disappointed by prejudicial attitudes towards the LGBTQ community. I have become very accustomed to burying the hatred deep down (hoping that it doesnt evolve into self-hatred), but when I see a young person trying to work out who they are, while facing hate and prejudice, it inspires me to act. The companys letter expresses its commitment to providing a space where everyone feels represented and welcome: We must lift up those around us in positive ways and provide support when needed. We challenge you to do the same, today and every day. Twelve months after clinching the biggest victory of his poker career, Matous Houzvicek will start Day 2 in pole position to defend his title. After just over 18 levels on Day 1c, Houzvicek bagged up 694,000 which is good enough for the overall chip lead with 108 players remaining. Day 1c was by far the biggest starting flight, with its 388 entries eclipsing the 333 entries from the first two flights combined. This ensured that the figure of 705 entries from 2018 was eclipsed by 16 entrants to 721. "I always perform much better in the C flights!" Houzvicek told PokerNews after bagging up at the end of Day 1c. "I always do better in the last flights. It's my third bullet this year, just like last year. I got through Day 1c last year as well! "I really like it here. I feel comfortable in the casino with the players. Some of the players from the final table and others that I played with last year have come up to me and recognized me!" Other big stacks advancing to Day 2 include Daniil Kiselev (664,000), Aidyn Kanabekov (601,000) and Sarkis Karabadzhakyan (595,000). Daniil Kiselev Notables include former EPT final tablist Kiryl Radzivonau (68,000), Aditya Sushant (456,000) and PokerStars Team Online's Mikhail Shalamov (184,000). Several familiar faces were back from Day 1a and 1b, with EPT Prague National winner Boris Mondrus jumping into the field. Mondrus took home 382,750 ($435,705) for winning the EPT National last December but won't be repeating the feat in Sochi as he was eliminated midway through the day. Other notables who failed to make it through include Vadim Lipovka, Viktor Shegay, Gleb Tremzin, Andrey Guliy, Anatoliy Zyrin, Alexander Lakhov, and 2018 EPT Sochi Main Event winner Arsenii Karmatckii. Midway through the day, it was Rachid Amamou, Aditya Sushant and PokerStars Team Online member Mikhail Shalamov who were among the big stacks, and all three made it through to Day 2. Aidyn Kanabekov As the blinds began to steadily increase, Denis Kushnerov and Andrey Danilyuk were the first two players above 200,000 before Aidyn Kanabekov took a chunk from Kushnerov and forged on without him. He moved above 500,000 with the elimination of Meng Wang and looked in pole position to clinch the end of day chip lead. However, defending champion Houzvicek had other ideas, winning two late races with pocket pairs to eliminate first Amani Ezatulla with fours and then Sergey Pustobaev with sixes. This pushed him above 600,000 and he held on to secure the chip lead, almost breaking 700,000 in the process. The players resume tomorrow at 12pm and will play down to a final table. 969 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) said that any counterintelligence info that Mueller has uncovered has to be given to the House Intel committee. Rep. Schiff said in a statement provided to PoliticusUSA: Today, the Attorney General has informed Congress and the public that the Special Counsel has concluded his investigation and submitted a report of his findings. That report needs to be released to the public. Pursuant to the Special Counsel regulations, Muellers report is likely to focus on his prosecutorial decisions and may not shed necessary light on counterintelligence findings of profound significance to our committee and the nation whether the President or others around him have been compromised by a foreign power. The Mueller investigation, like our own probe, began as a counterintelligence inquiry into whether individuals associated with the Trump campaign were compromised by a hostile foreign nation. By law, the evidence he has uncovered on all counterintelligence matters must now be shared with the House Intelligence Committee, whether it resulted in indictment or not. We will insist that the Justice Department meet its statutory obligations and be transparent with our Committee and the public. Anything less would be negligent in the service of our national security. Rep. Schiff may force Trump to release Mueller findings Since the Mueller investigation was focused on the Russian interference in the 2016 election, almost every area of the probe would touch on something that could fall under the jurisdiction of the House Intelligence Committee. Rep. Schiffs point was that a few bullet points or a rewritten report by the attorney general are not going to cut it. Trump is going to have to turn over findings that relate to counterintelligence. Schiff short-circuited any attempt by the administration to hide information. Adam Schiff remains ten steps ahead of Trump, and if the president tries to bury the Mueller report, Rep. Schiff will make him regret it. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 117 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard (Reuters) Police arrested a 17-year-old boy on Friday over a racist threat of violence posted online that prompted authorities to close all the schools in Charlottesville, Virginia, for two days. The boy, who has not been publicly identified, was charged with threatening to cause bodily harm on a school property, a felony, and harassment by computer, a misdemeanor, police said in a statement. City leaders have worked to ease racial tensions in the city since a white nationalist rally in August 2017 descended into violence, with a white nationalist killing a counter-protester and injuring others after he drove into a crowd. The threat against Charlottesville High School was reported to the police on Wednesday afternoon, according to the police department. School officials then quickly decided to close all schools in the city. According to U.S Census Bureau data, African Americans make up around 19 percent of Charlottesvilles population of nearly 50,000 people. We would like to acknowledge and condemn the fact that this threat was racially charged, Charlottesville City Schools said in a letter sent to parents and posted on its website on Thursday evening notifying them of Fridays closures. The entire staff and School Board stand in solidarity with our students of color. The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported that a person claiming to be a student at Charlottesville High School, one of the regions largest schools, warned white students to stay at home so they could shoot dead non-white students in an act of ethnic cleansing. The boy arrested on Friday is not a student at any of the citys schools, the Times-Dispatch reported, citing the schools superintendent. There was widespread condemnation for the white nationalists involved in the violence in Charlottesville in 2017. But U.S. President Donald Trump drew strong criticism in the days after the Charlottesville rally for equating white supremacists with counter-protesters and saying he thought there were fine people on both sides. (Reporting by Jonathan Allen; editing by Nick Carey and Susan Thomas) 102 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard PALM BEACH, Fl./BAGHOUZ, Syria (Reuters) Islamic State militants in eastern Syria still held out late on Friday, the U.S.-backed militia besieging them said, after U.S. President Donald Trump said the jihadist group had lost its last scrap of territory. Heavy fighting continues around mount Baghouz right now to finish off whatever remains of ISIS (Islamic State), said Mustafa Bali, head of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) media office on Twitter. Trump showed a before-and-after map to reporters to demonstrate the extent of jihadist losses during his presidency. He has said several times in recent weeks that Islamic State had lost all its land even though fierce battles persisted. Two hours before Trump gave a statement declaring the groups territorial rule over, a Reuters journalist heard two air strikes and saw smoke at Baghouz, where Islamic State fighters have been waging a last stand. Islamic States loss of Baghouz ends its grip over populated territory in the third of Iraq and Syria it once ruled, but the group remains a threat with fighters operating in cities and remote areas elsewhere and able to mount insurgent attacks. A U.S.-led coalition has helped the SDF drive Islamic State from swathes of northeastern Syria and down the Euphrates since 2015 with air strikes and special forces assistance. An array of local and international forces some of them sworn enemies of each other have conducted different campaigns against Islamic State during that period, inflicting major defeats on it in 2017 with the capture of Mosul and Raqqa. The Syrian Ambassador to the U.N. Bashar Jaafari told reporters that Islamic State was not yet finished in Syria, but that it was the Damascus government backed by Russia and Iran that was genuinely battling it, not the United States. Some Islamic State fighters remain holed up in the central Syrian desert, an area entirely surrounded by the Syrian army. JIHADIST MAP Heres ISIS on Election Day. And heres ISIS right now, Trump said, using the acronym for the group, as he displayed the map with the before portion full of red dots and the after map empty. You guys can have the map. Congratulations, Trump said. I think its about time. The president has previously displayed a map illustrating the diminution of Islamic State. Although he said the before map showed Islamic States presence at his election in 2016, the version given to reporters showed it was dated 2014, when the groups territorial control was at its peak. U.S.-backed forces in Syria and Iraq captured extensive stretches of that territory before Trumps election. The SDF has been battling for weeks to defeat Islamic State in Baghouz on the Euphrates riverside at the Iraqi border. This week it announced it had captured a jihadist encampment that represented most of the remaining enclave. The last small groups of jihadist fighters had been pushed onto a sliver of the riverbank and the cliffs nearby said the SDF, which holds the area at the top of the cliffs. Bali told Reuters earlier on Friday that SDF fighters had clashed overnight with militants in more than two positions where they were refusing to surrender. The jihadists were holed up in what appeared to be caves in a rocky shelf overlooking Baghouz and in trenches by the river, he said. Our forces are trying to force them to surrender, but so far the clashes are continuing. Over the past two months, more than 60,000 people have flooded out of the dwindling pocket on the Euphrates around Baghouz, about half of them civilians including some Islamic State captives, the SDF has said. Of the rest, about 5,000 were surrendering jihadist fighters. The others were supporters or family members of the group. The fighters who refused to surrender to the end were mostly foreigners, the SDF has said. The SDF transported most people who left Baghouz to displacement camps in northeast Syria where aid agencies have warned of dire humanitarian conditions. The number of people inside the enclave when the assault on it began in January was unexpectedly large, adding to the difficulties at the displacement camps and repeatedly delaying a final offensive. (Reporting by Rodi Said in Qamishli, a Reuters journalist in Baghouz, Roberta Rampton in Palm Springs, Idrees Ali in Washington and Michelle Nichols at the United Nations; Writing by Angus McDowall and Mohammad Zargham; Editing by Janet Lawrence) 161 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard By Karen Freifeld and Nathan Layne WASHINGTON (Reuters) When members of Special Counsel Robert Muellers team investigating Russias role in the 2016 U.S. election have arrived for work each day, they have placed their mobile phones in a locker outside of their office suite before entering. Operating in secrecy in a nondescript glass-and-concrete office, the team of prosecutors and investigators since May 2017 has unearthed secrets that have led to bombshell charges against several of President Donald Trumps aides, including his former national security adviser, campaign chairman and personal lawyer, who have pleaded guilty or been convicted by a jury. To protect those secrets from prying ears, the whole of the office suite in southwest Washington has been designated a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF), U.S. spy speak for an area that has restrictions to ensure secret information stays secure. One common restriction in SCIFs is to keep out smartphones and other electronic devices, which can be turned into covert listening devices or spy cameras. Visitors also have been required to turn these over before entering. The restrictions, while not surprising given the team was investigating whether a hostile foreign power tried to help Trump win the 2016 election and whether his campaign conspired in the effort, have not been previously reported. Mueller is widely expected to conclude his work anytime and send a report to the U.S. attorney general. It is unclear how much of the report will be made public. Accounts of witnesses interviewed by the special counsels team, their lawyers and others familiar with the investigation reveal the lengths to which Mueller, a former FBI director, has gone to ensure his high-profile probe safeguarded its secrets. In a city known for its leaks, Mueller has pulled off a rare feat. He has kept a tight lid on both his office and the evidence he was amassing in his highly sensitive investigation that has cast a cloud over Trumps presidency. And he did it even as Trump relentlessly criticized him, calling the probe a witch hunt and the special counsels team thugs. THE ADVISER AND THE DODGE CHARGER When former Trump campaign adviser Michael Caputo agreed to an interview with Mueller in May 2018, he was told he would be picked up at the hotel where he was staying in Washington. On the lookout for a black government SUV, Caputo and his lawyer were surprised when an FBI agent drove up in his personal car, a white Dodge Charger. Then he drove us 15 blocks to their location and we went in through the garage so that nobody would see, Caputo said in an interview. Caputo was questioned about former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, Manaforts aide Rick Gates and longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone. When the interview was over, Muellers team told him they would take him back to his hotel. Caputo said Muellers team was not happy with what he said next. I said Im meeting a TV crew downstairs so I wont need a ride, Caputo said. They werent upset that I was talking to the media, they were disturbed that I was doing it in (front of) the office. They were concerned that would put their agents and attorneys at risk, Caputo said, adding that he agreed to meet the news crew at a different location nearby. Former Trump campaign adviser Sam Nunberg said an FBI agent picked him up at the train station to take him to the office. You put your phone and any electronic devices and leave them in a compartment out front, Nunberg added. It was a very plain office. Nunberg said he went into a conference room with three tables, and prosecutor Aaron Zelinsky, a member of Muellers team, came in with three FBI agents, one female and two males. The offices location was not publicly revealed but was discovered by journalists. Still, it has not been widely publicized. Muellers team has asked media outlets not to publish the exact location for security purposes. We are working in a secure location in Southwest DC, Peter Carr, a spokesman for Mueller, has said. STAYING OUT OF THE NEWS In a town where everybody and their mother is trying to get on the front page, Bob Mueller was always trying to stay out of the news, said Mark Corallo, a former Justice Department spokesman. He wanted to be judged on actions, not press conferences. Corallo, who was briefly a spokesman for Trumps legal team, was interviewed by Muellers team in February 2018. Corallo and other witnesses summoned for interviews by Muellers team said they were picked up from their lawyers offices and taken to a secure parking garage in the building in southwest Washington. The teams office suite was anonymous with no plaque on the door to identify its occupants, said Washington lawyer A. Joseph Jay, who represented a witness he declined to identify. More than once, Jay recalled, members of Muellers team expressed their commitment to confidentiality. They made it clear on a number of occasions, We dont leak. You dont have to worry about that with us.' By keeping to their code of silence, they were professionals, Jay said. They werent reacting to the spin. They were doing their jobs. They spoke through a number of indictments. They spoke through a number of sentencing memos. Mueller has remained silent throughout the investigation and his office has issued only one statement. In that statement, issued this past January, spokesman Carr labeled as not accurate a BuzzFeed News account describing evidence collected by the special counsel that allegedly showed that Trump had directed his former lawyer Michael Cohen to lie to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. BuzzFeed has stood by its story. Trumps lawyer Rudy Giuliani, himself a former federal prosecutor, also remarked on Mueller staying out of sight. Whenever we talk to them, they say, Well take it to Bob. Hes like the Wizard of Oz, Giuliani said. Giuliani said although he was suspicious of leaks to the news media, he acknowledged he knew of none for sure from the special counsels team and that nothing he told Muellers office was leaked. Mueller doesnt talk to us. I dont know why hed talk to the press, the former New York mayor added. Joseph Campbell, a former assistant director of the FBIs Criminal Investigative Division who worked at the agency when Mueller headed it, said the special counsel knows how to handle sensitive investigations and ignores the attacks on him. He went through 12 years starting with 9/11 of extremely critical and sensitive investigations around the world, said Campbell, referring to the 2001 attacks on the United States. This is right in his wheelhouse. He is not affected by external criticism or speculation, Campbell added. Robert Litt, former general counsel for the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, said any leaks about the investigation appeared to have come from witnesses or their lawyers. Theres nothing he can do about that, Litt said, referring to Mueller. Litt said Mueller, the 74-year-old former U.S. Marine Corps officer and architect of the modern FBI, probably cares little about the public perception of him. He cares, Litt said, about doing the job right. (Reporting by Karen Freifeld and Nathan Layne; Additional reporting by Steve Holland; Editing by Will Dunham and Ross Colvin) 3.1k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Many Republicans, along with their supporters on Fox News, started their premature celebrations last night after Attorney General William Barr released a letter saying he had received the final report from special counsel Robert Muller. According to Slate Magazine: Fox News spent most of Friday night taking a victory lap. Well, happy No Collusion Day, Tucker! Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz told Tucker Carlson with a big grin on his face. Happy No Collusion Day! Carlson laughed. Of course, there is no reason for them to be celebrating No Collusion Day. And contrary to many media narratives, there is also no reason to believe that the release of Muellers report means there will be no further indictments. There will almost definitely be more indictments possibly both federal and state and they may include members of Donald Trumps family, and potentially even the president himself. Mueller Just Won Two Victories, With Major Implications Lost in all the premature celebrating (by Republicans) and the hand-wringing (by Democrats) is the fact that Robert Mueller just scored two huge victories. And as a result, it is very likely that the legal peril for President Donald Trump (and at least three of his children) is just beginning. Here are the victories won by Mueller: The special counsel made it all the way to the finish line without being fired. He got to finish his important work of investigating collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. And, after massive amounts of worry and hype, he was allowed to write and submit his final report. There are many people who believed he would never get to this point. So score this a big win for the special counsel. By law William Barr is required to publicly reveal any time that Robert Mueller or Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein asked him to approve something, but he refused. In his announcement letter, Barr says that there were no such instances where he refused a request. This means a lot. It means that Mueller got approval every time he asked Barr to approve something. If Mueller asked for approval to refer criminal cases against Trump and or his children to the U.S. Attorneys office in New York (SDNY) then he got it. Which means that there may be more indictments and prosecutions coming from other places within the Justice Department. The Mueller Report Will Be Made Public, and There Will Be More Indictments We dont know what Mueller asked for from Barr, but we do know that whatever it was, he got his way. Last night both House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff and Senator Richard Blumenthal said that more indictments are likely coming, and they will probably come from the SDNY. This makes it clear that Barr will not bury the Mueller report and go on with business as usual, as if nothing happened. Both Blumenthal and Schiff pointed out that the American public has an overwhelming desire to see the Mueller report. And Democrats also have several ways they can make the report public if Trump or Barr try to play games and withhold it from public view. Trumps Legal Troubles Are Just Beginning The release of Bob Muellers report does not mean that the legal process has ended. In some ways, it is just beginning. And as the investigations of Donald Trump and his family move into a new phase, they will be facing more potential legal trouble than ever before. 1.2k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard The Republican efforts to get Hillary Clinton when they controlled Congress has backfired and will hurt Trumps effort to bury the Mueller report. Republicans will pay the price for their Clinton email investigation Politico reported: Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), a member of the Judiciary Committee, said Republicans efforts over the last two years to force the public release of elements of the Russia probe as well as the investigation of Hillary Clintons email server had armed Democrats with an argument to require significant disclosure of the Mueller findings. Republicans have really shot themselves in the foot with what they approved, Jayapal said. They really undermined any argument Barr might want to make that theres longstanding precedent. House Intelligence Committee chairman Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) made a similar argument on Friday night to Rachel Maddow, In the last Congress, Rachel, the Justice Department provided over 880,000 pages of discovery of evidence to the Republican Congress in the answer to subpoenas that in an investigation that the Clinton e-mail investigation in which no one was indicted. Information about Hillary Clinton, about Bruce Orr and Andy Mccabe and Lisa Page and Peter Strzok. For the department to maintain they never provide information in cases that doesnt result in an indictment is simply not true and 880,000 pages demonstrate that. Republicans screwed themselves when they went after Clintons emails. The bogus Hillary Clinton email investigation is laying the groundwork for the DOJ to be forced to release the Meuller report. Because Republicans got the DOJ to release so much evidentiary material, it will be impossible for Barr to argue in court that the Mueller report must remain classified. It is a bit of poetic justice that the House Republican abuse of power in the Clinton email investigation is about to come back to haunt them and provide the ammo needed to get the Mueller report released. Republicans can thank Paul Ryan, Devin Nunes, and the rest of the Republican House when Muellers report is made public, and voters get to see his findings about Trump. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 933 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Things are getting nasty in Washington, DC. After special counsel Robert Mueller gave his final report to Attorney General William Barr, members of Congress from both parties immediately entered into a war of words. The fights going on now are not legal, but political. Through the spinning of the facts and through a major PR effort both sides hope to win the hearts and minds of the American voting public. Donald Trumps allies last night were all over social media and conservative media outlets, claiming victory for the president. Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.), the chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus and staunch Trump ally, took to Twitter immediately to argue the lack of additional indictments would reveal the investigation was a waste of time and taxpayers money. It would mean we just completed 2 years of investigating Russian collusion without ONE collusion related indictment. Not even one. Why? Because there was no collusion, he tweeted. The Mueller report delivery suggests no more indictments are coming from the Special Counsel. If that's true, it would mean we just completed 2 years of investigating 'Russian collusion' without ONE collusion related indictment. Not even one. Why? Because there was no collusion Mark Meadows (@RepMarkMeadows) March 22, 2019 House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) also issued a statement Friday afternoon saying: The reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what weve known all along: there was never any collusion with Russia. I am glad Attorney General Barr will now be able to review the report, and I look forward to Congress being fully briefed on its findings, including the cost to taxpayers. On Fox News, Scalise told Sean Hannity that the lack of additional indictments does vindicate President Trump and gives credence to those claims that this was a witch hunt. Id like to see not only the report made public but how many tens of millions of taxpayer dollars were spent over nearly two years to meander around and, as you say, bully people, Scalise said. Scalise also demanded that Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, be held accountable for what he called the smearing of good people. Former Trump advisor George Papadopoulos, who was sentenced to jail for lying to the FBI about his contacts with Russians, tweeted on Friday, Time to hit back! Time to hit back! George Papadopoulos (@GeorgePapa19) March 22, 2019 Congressional Democrats are putting great pressure on Barr to make Muellers report public. House Democrats might subpoena the full report or demand Muellers testimony if they are not happy with what they receive from Barr. The attorney general said in his letter notifying Congress of the probes conclusion that he may be in a position to brief lawmakers on the reports overall findings as soon as this weekend. As of this writing, Barr has not yet scheduled a time to brief the committee. But it is expected that the attorney general will soon brief the leaders of the intelligence committees of both the House and the Senate. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr (R-N.C.) said in a statement Friday he was looking forward to reviewing the report. In a joint statement, House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Oversight and Reform Chairman Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) and three other Democratic committee chairs said they will fight hard to make the both the report and Muellers underlying evidence public. The statement from the six House chairs said: Consistent with the Justice Departments past practice and to ensure Congress can discharge its constitutional responsibilities, we expect the underlying evidence uncovered during the course of the Special Counsels investigation will be turned over to the relevant Committees of Congress upon request. To be clear, if the Special Counsel has reason to believe that the President has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct, then the Justice Department has an obligation not to conceal such information. Schiff also issued a separate warning. On CNN he said that if the Justice Department doesnt cooperate willingly the House will have to subpoena the evidence and subpoena Mueller and others to come before the Congress to answer questions. Senate Intelligence Committee Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-Va.) tweeted Friday that nothing short of a declassified version of Muellers report will suffice. Congress and the American people deserve to judge the facts of the Mueller report for themselves. It must be provided to Congress immediately, and the AG should swiftly prepare a declassified version for the public. Nothing short of that will suffice. Mark Warner (@MarkWarner) March 22, 2019 Fellow committee member and 2020 presidential candidate Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) went a step further, calling for Barr to publicly testify about the reports findings. The investigation of special counsel Robert Mueller may be over, but the political battle over his final report has just begun. (CNN) Robert Mueller is done. After a 22-month investigation, charges against 37 defendants, seven guilty pleas and one conviction at trial, the Justice Department announced Friday that the special counsel's office has wrapped up its probe into Russian election interference, possible Trump campaign collusion with Moscow and obstruction of justice. A senior Justice Department official told CNN there are no more indictments coming from special counsel Robert Mueller. Mueller submitted a confidential report to Attorney General William Barr Friday detailing the decisions his team made to prosecute or not prosecute those who were investigated, Barr said in a letter to lawmakers. Barr wrote that he "may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." The expectation is that lawmakers will receive the principal conclusions, in writing, from Barr this weekend, according to a Justice Department official. That distillation from Barr will be made public. President Donald Trump and the White House has not seen Mueller's findings, press secretary Sarah Sanders said. "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsel's report," Sanders said in a statement. The completion of the special counsel's investigation marks the end of one of the most dramatic chapters in Donald Trump's presidency, one that led to numerous criminal charges against and guilty pleas by some of his closest associates. The conclusion of the investigation, however, opens a new chapter into the fallout from the report, a potentially fraught political battle over the extent to which its contents are made public and further investigations from congressional Democrats. It's too soon to say what Mueller's report will ultimately mean for the President, but surviving the investigation without being subpoenaed for a sit down interview with the special counsel's team is a significant triumph for Trump and his legal team. It's not clear what Mueller uncovered about Trump's involvement or advance knowledge, if any, of WikiLeaks release of damaging information about Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign. The special counsel's findings on the question of obstruction of justice are also unknown, but Trump's allies will likely argue anything short of a criminal indictment proves the President did nothing wrong. A looming fight over Mueller's report Barr wrote in his letter that Justice Department leaders never told the special counsel throughout the investigation a proposed action should not be pursued. The fight to make Mueller's report public could be fierce and possibly spark a court battle between Congress and the executive branch. Key House Democrats have said that the full report that Mueller submitted to Barr should be made public, and they intend to subpoena for the document and Mueller's underlying evidence -- if it is not handed over to Congress. White House lawyers, meanwhile, expect to have an opportunity to review whatever Barr intends to submit to Congress and the public. Congressional Democrats and Democratic presidential candidates issued a flurry of statements Friday demanding that Barr make Mueller's full report public, along with Mueller's evidence. "We look forward to getting the full Mueller report and related materials," said House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler, a New York Democrat. "Transparency and the public interest demand nothing less. The need for public faith in the rule of law must be the priority." Republicans also said they wanted to see Mueller's findings made public, though most included the caveat that Barr himself has stated publicly that the attorney general had to follow Justice Department guidelines. "I will work with ranking member (Dianne) Feinstein and our House Judiciary Committee colleagues to ensure as much transparency as possible, consistent with the law," said Senate Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham. Graham, a South Carolina Republican, also noted that Trump did not interfere in Mueller's investigation, something Democrats expressed concerns about throughout the course of the investigation. "I have always believed it was important that Mr. Mueller be allowed to do his job without interference, and that has been accomplished," Graham said. What Mueller found Mueller did not speak publicly during his nearly two-year investigation into Trump and his team. Instead, his prosecutors largely used indictments and court filings to illustrate their sweeping investigation. To announce charges against Russian operatives on two separate occasions in 2018, Mueller relied on Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who appointed Mueller in 2017 and oversaw much of his work. The investigation revealed that Russia's efforts to influence the 2016 election were far more extensive than previously known, and multiple Trump associates lied about their contacts with Russian officials and others with ties to Moscow. The list of officials in Trump's orbit who have pleaded guilty in Mueller's probe is lengthy, including former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, former Trump White House national security adviser Michael Flynn, former Trump personal attorney Michael Cohen, former Trump campaign deputy Rick Gates and former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos. Longtime Trump confidant Roger Stone was charged in January with obstruction, false statements and witness tampering. He has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial. Mueller has not yet alleged a conspiracy to collude with Russians or detailed what he learned about the other key issue he investigated: whether the President obstructed justice, either by pressuring then-FBI Director James Comey in 2017 to go easy on Flynn or by later firing Comey which is what prompted Mueller's appointment in the first place. Trump had repeatedly attacked Mueller's investigation as a "witch hunt" and a "hoax," sending hundreds of tweets that have gone after Mueller and his team of prosecutors, as well as Cohen after he began cooperating with Mueller. Earlier this month, Trump launched into a long broadside against the probe in a two-hour speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference, summing up the criticisms he's launched throughout the Mueller probe. "You put the wrong people in a couple of positions, and they leave people for a long time that shouldn't be there, and all of a sudden, they're trying to take you out with bullshit, OK," Trump said. But Trump has also signaled he isn't opposed to Mueller's report being released publicly. Asked on Wednesday whether the public had a right to see the report, Trump said, "I don't mind. I mean, frankly, I told the House, if you want, let them see it." Other investigations continue As of Friday, Robert Mueller is "still special counsel," according to a Justice Department official. But the investigation is unequivocally "complete," the official said. Special counsel spokesman Peter Carr confirmed there were 10 remaining prosecutors under Mueller in the special counsel's office as of Friday. Carr said Mueller would be "concluding his service in the coming days," and a small number of staff would remain to help close the office. While Mueller's investigation is finished, the investigations into Trump, his business and his administration are far from over. The new Democratic-controlled House has announced multiple investigations into all elements of Trump's life, while Mueller's team has farmed out some cases to other prosecutors across the Justice Department that will continue, such as the probe into the Trump inaugural committee's donations and spending. Gates, a key Mueller witness, continues to cooperate in several ongoing investigations, prosecutors said this month. On Capitol Hill, Cohen testified publicly last month, accusing Trump of directing him to issue hush-money payments to two women alleging affairs, which Trump has denied, and alleging Trump committed financial fraud. Multiple committees are now pursuing other Trump Organization associates for testimony, as well as Trump's family members like Donald Trump Jr. But the biggest question for Congress may ultimately be tied to Mueller's investigation, and whether his findings spark an effort in the House to begin impeachment proceedings against the President. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said earlier this month that impeaching the President was "just not worth it." But Mueller's findings could amplify the liberal voices in the House Democratic caucus already calling for Trump's impeachment. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Special counsel Robert Mueller ends investigation." By ABC News , March . 21, 2019 New Zealand's prime minister announced that assault rifles, such as the ones used last Friday in the massacre at two mosques in Christchurch, will be banned from the country once approved by the parliament. "Today I am announcing that New Zealand will ban all military-style semi-automatic weapons. We will also ban all assault rifles. We will also ban all high capacity magazines," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Thursday local time. "We will ban all parts with the ability to convert semi-automatic or any other type of firearm into a military style semi-automatic weapon." 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 1k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard The husband of one of Donald Trumps top advisers, George Conway, is blasting the President of the United States on Twitter again and for good cause. Today Conways comments deal with the presidents sudden reversal of sanctions on North Korea just one day after his administration made public statements about implementing them. While other members of the GOP kept silent, Conway spoke up. Conways tweetstorm marks the latest escalation in a public feud between the husband of Kellyanne Conway and the president himself. Here is the sequence of tweets posted by Conway this morning telling the truth about Donald Trump: Of course, as usual, Trump is incompetent. His tweet referred to sanctions that had been previously announced. But it turns out, he was referring to sanctions that had yet to be announced. He confused everyone. Apart from his mental instability, he is simply inept. Stupid. But the real story here is, again, pathological narcissism. Why did Trump waive the sanctions? Not to further the national interests of the United Statesno informed person could think that. No, its that he likes KJU, says the WH. He likes this butcher. He likes this man who murders with anti-aircraft batteries, because he writes big, beautifuland most importantly, flatteringletters that play to Trumps ego. Narcissism. Narcissistic whim, trumping the presidential oath, and trumping the national security interests of our country. In our lifetimes there has never been a president who has been so singularly unfit for the presidency, or indeed any public office. Thats remarkable enoughbut whats even more remarkable is that *almost every day* Trump does something new to drive home the point. Of course, as usual, Trump is incompetent. His tweet referred to sanctions that had been previously announced. But it turns out, he was referring to sanctions that had yet to be announced. He confused everyone. Apart from his mental instability, he is simply inept. Stupid. https://t.co/V00AdwPVbx George Conway (@gtconway3d) March 23, 2019 In our lifetimes there has never been a president who has been so singularly unfit for the presidency, or indeed any public office. Thats remarkable enoughbut whats even more remarkable is that *almost every day* Trump does something new to drive home the point. George Conway (@gtconway3d) March 23, 2019 Earlier in the week, Trump tweeted that Conway was the husband from hell after he posted information on narcissistic personality disorder, suggesting that the president suffers from it. You. Are. Nuts. Conway tweeted in response. George Conway Is One of the Few People Who Has the Courage to Speak the Truth About Trump People listen to what George Conway says even Republicans because he is a Republican himself, and he is married to one of Donald Trumps top advisers. Americans owe him a debt of gratitude for having the courage to speak the truth at this time of crisis in our country. When so many within his party remain silent about Donald Trumps attacks on decency and democracy, George Conway is speaking up. We sincerely hope that the voters of America will listen to what he has to say, and take steps to make sure that the presidency of Donald Trump ends as soon as possible. 2.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard If you want to address the growing student debt crisis, one way to do it, recently endorsed by Ivanka Trump and her fathers administration, is to reduce the amount of money students can borrow from the federal government to help them cover the exponentially-increasing costs of a college education. I suppose it makes some sense, in the context of a twisted logic divorced from actual human lives and from studied and sound economic analysis and policy. If people cannot access loans, then they cannot accumulate debt. Of course, this also means, in this case, they likely cannot attend, or else have greatly reduced access to, college as well. Nonetheless, last March 18, Ivanka Trump proudly unveiled a new proposal to set legislative limits on PLUS loans, which a federal loans designated for graduate or professional students as well as for parents of undergraduate students who are dependents to help pay for college or career school. Ms. Trump tweeted enthusiastically about the proposal, Today, @WhiteHouse will be sending Congress our policy priorities to modernize our higher edu system to ensure access to affordable, flexible, demand-driven education for Americans of all ages. We urge comprehensive Higher Edu reform!! It is long overdue! The White House press secretary issued a similar more formal statement, saying Monday, The principles, unveiled this afternoon at a meeting of the National Council for the American Worker, set forth concrete legislative actions that, if enacted into law, would provide more Americans access to affordable and quality education, improve institutional accountability, and help students and families make informed decisions regarding their educational options. The currently realities, beyond just mere logic, call into question the integrity of the claim that this proposal would provide more Americans access to affordable and quality education. Patty Murray, the Democratic Senator from Washington and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, similarly called into question the logic of the claim that limiting loans would increase access to college, insisting it would end up hurting students by reducing the amount of federal aid for students and taking billions out of the pockets of borrowers. This proposal comes on the heels of Trumps proposed 2020 budget, which freezes federal Pell grants, starkly reduces federal work-study funding, and eliminates loan forgiveness programs that make managing student debt much more burdensome. Moreover, the proposal Ms. Trump celebrated and the budget the President proposed, both calling for severe reductions in the funds available to those aspiring to a college education, come at a time when well-qualified students are encountering increasingly formidable financial barriers to attending college, which, by historical standards, are more severe than ever. Andrew Johnson and Brian Kinney, for example, credentialed college and career access advisers at Westinghouse College Prep in East Garfield Park in Chicago, report that even when their students do everything the right way and admissions and financial aid programs work as they are supposed to, these systems are still working against their students. A key factor, they say, remains cost. They write, Over the last few decades, it has become increasingly difficult for academically qualified, low-income students to pay for college. We have worked with countless students who have gained admission to schools of their choice but could not afford to attend them, despite being eligible for maximum financial aid. Another key factor, exacerbated by Trumps proposed budget, is the declining value of the federal Pell grant. They tell the story of one of their students parents who fully funded her college education in 1969 with Pell grants. By 1980, they report, a student could cover only 69 percent of college tuition with a Pell grant, with that percentage sinking in 2017 to only 29 percent of a full years cost of college. The vexed condition of many state budgets only heightens the challenge of affording college. Jonhson and Kinney report, Viable financial aid packages are increasingly uncommon at many state institutions, as state funding for higher education has dwindled. The resulting changes disproportionately affect our students, as selective public universities reduce the share of low-income students they enroll and increase the share of students whose families can pay full price. So while Johnson and Kinney, counselors working on the front lines with largely low-income students of color in Chicago, attest to the daunting obstacles barring well-qualified students trying to afford a college education, Ivanka Trump is proud to propose making these obstacles even more difficult to surmount. Of course, this callous and out-of-touch response is consistent with her recent insistence that Americans dont want help as they struggle for upward mobility in the well-documented unfairness of the U.S. economy. She believes they would prefer to struggle and encounter obstacle upon obstacle. Indeed, when asked recently about her views on the much-touted Green New Deal animating progressive Democratic politics, she responded: I dont think most Americans, in their heart, want to be given something. Ive spent a lot of time traveling around this country over the last 4 years. People want to work for what they get. So, I think that this idea of a guaranteed minimum is not something most people want. They want the ability to be able to secure a job. They want the ability to live in a country wheres theres the potential for upward mobility. One has to wonder to which parts she traveled and whom shes met. And it is a well-researched conclusion that college grads are earning twice as much upon graduation as a high school graduate. The combination of higher-earning tax-payers and better-trained and bettereducated workers would seem to constitute a boon for the U.S. economy, as Ive argued elsewhere in the pages of PoliticusUSA. The Trumps, I guess, arent smart or just dont care. Or both. So whats new? 1.8k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard It was once rumored that Donald Trump would throw Jared Kushner under the bus, but now it appears that the opposite may be happening. According to reports that came out last night, Trumps son-in-law, who is also a senior White House adviser, is now cooperating with the investigations of House Democrats. Jared Kushner is cooperating with the House probe into Trump and possible obstruction of justice and abuse of power, a source says https://t.co/vXa3r0ugMh pic.twitter.com/nQu3D3ZnGv Reuters Top News (@Reuters) March 23, 2019 Working through his legal counsel, Kushner has told the House Judiciary Committee that he will provide documents to them as they have requested. And, according to confidential sources, Kushner has in fact already provided some documents to the committee. The House Judiciary Committee is conducting an extensive inquiry into all facets of Donald Trumps administration, campaign and businesses. They are especially focusing on possible obstruction of justice and abuses of power. Needless to say, the documents and other information provided to Democrats by Jared Kushner could be invaluable to their investigations. Kushners attorney, Abbe Lowell, told the panel, chaired by Rep. Jerry Nadler of New York, that he and his client will continue to provide documents in compliance with their requests for information about the president. By way of contrast, earlier in the day, according to news reports, a lawyer for Trump adviser Roger Stone said in a letter that Stone was not cooperating with the committee, citing his right to avoid self-incrimination under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Documents Kushner Will Give House Democrats The document requests sent to Kushner from the Judiciary Committee relate to the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting in which Kushner, Trumps son Donald Trump Jr., then-campaign manager Paul Manafort and others met with a Kremlin-linked lawyer who they believed had dirt on Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. Kushner also was asked to turn over all records concerning: The Trump Organizations discussions to build a Trump Tower in Moscow during the 2016 campaign. The publishing of hacked Democratic emails by WikiLeaks, The payment of hush money to women alleging affairs with Donald Trump, Any contacts between the Trump campaign and Russia, and Certain events that took place after Trump became president, such as the firing of former FBI Director James Comey. The committee also asked Kushner for information on internal Trump administration affairs, such as Trumps contacts with his former acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker regarding special counsel Robert Muellers investigation or the work of other federal prosecutors. The presidents son-in-law was also asked to provide documents that may discuss possible pardons for Manafort, former White House national security adviser Michael Flynn or former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen. Other Members of Trumps Family Have Been Asked for Documents Kushner is just one of several members of Trumps family who have been asked for documents. Democrats have also asked for documents from Trump Jr. and the presidents other son, Eric Trump. Democrats have not yet asked for documents from Kushners wife, Ivanka Trump, although they did ask many other people for information about her and her possible illegal activities. Jared Kushner May Help Bring Down Donald Trump By being both a member of Donald Trumps family AND a member of his administration, Jared Kushner is in a unique position. He has seen things and been involved in things that could give House investigators unique insights into what exactly happened during Trumps campaign and transition period, as well as during his entire presidency. We dont know that Jared Kushner will be able to give House Democrats a smoking gun to convict Donald Trump of crimes, but we do know that the odds are very high that he will be able to provide some incriminating evidence that could very possibly help take down his father-in-laws presidency. 19.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Now that Bob Mueller has delivered his report to William Barr, the fight against Donald Trump and his criminal family and businesses will move to the U.S. Attorneys office in the Southern District of New York (SDNY). Not coincidentally, the SDNY has just made a major new hire, bringing in one of the top lawyers in the country with experience in prosecuting mob figures and white collar criminals. Yesterday it was announced that the new #2 attorney at SDNY is Audrey Strauss, who has had a legendary career. Many years ago she defeated Donald Trumps mentor Roy Cohn in taking down a mafia leader. Since that time her career has been focused on aggressive white collar criminal enforcement. Democratic Leaders Believe More Indictments Are Coming Mueller reportedly will not issue any more indictments himself, but last night Democratic leaders in Congress made very clear that they are expecting additional indictments from other sources. It is expected that these additional indictments and the subsequent prosecutions will come very soon from federal prosecutors in the SDNY. Since the top U.S. attorney in the SDNY, Geoffrey Berman, recused himself from any investigations that have to do with Donald Trump, Audrey Strauss will now have authority over any Trump-related criminal prosecutions going forward. She was brought in because her experience and her expertise has been in taking down organized crime families and white collar criminals. Which makes her the perfect person to lead the prosecutions against the Trump crime family and their businesses. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff seems to have confirmed this by saying last night: What Mueller is reporting, as best we can tell, are his conclusions on the criminal side of the house, who should be indicted and who shouldnt be indicted, and why he reached those conclusions. Then Schiff added that he thinks its entirely possible if not likely that there will be other indictments forthcoming. The Cohen Case Proves Mueller Refers Criminal Prosecutions to the SDNY When Robert Mueller investigated Michael Cohen he determined that Cohen didnt commit crimes central to the Trump-Russia election scandal, but he did commit other Trump-related crimes. So he then referred the case to the SDNY, which had jurisdiction over those crimes, for prosecution. SDNY then brought the criminal case against Cohen, and now hes going to prison. Nobody believes that Michael Cohen is the only person in Trumps orbit who fit this pattern. Bob Muellers investigation reportedly has uncovered many other crimes involving Donald Trump, his children, and his businesses. And these crimes also were not directly connected to the Trump-Russia election scandal. Which means other SDNY indictments will likely be unsealed and delivered very soon, and they will likely involve the President of the United States, his children, and his entire criminal enterprise. (Editors note: This is an update of our story originally published March 23, with new information from an open source researcher, who disputes some of the U.S. Air Force information, but also the conclusion of the Russian Defense Ministry and particularly TASS, a Russian state media outlet. The additions are in a new section of the article under the heading Open Source Flight Information. We find there is not enough new information to change our verdict). On Thursday, March 21, the Russian state news agency TASS, citing Russias Defense Ministry, reported that two Russian Sukhoi-27 jets had "forced" a U.S. B-52 bomber flying over the Baltic Sea to move away from the Russian border. The article, headlined Two Sukhoi jets chase US B-52 bomber away from Russian border, reported that the strategic bomber, which was flying over international waters, was far away from the border at the time of the incident and put under observation. The report said that after the Sukhoi-27s were scrambled to escort the aircraft, the B-52 changed course to move away from the Russian state border. Afterwards, the Russian jets reportedly returned to base. Meanwhile, a statement posted by the Russian Defense Ministry on Facebook never said the B-52 was forced to move way from Russia, rather claiming that the two Russian fighter jets were scrambled to identify and directly escort the strategic U.S. bomber. The Russian Defense Ministry statement noted the target was detected at a considerable distance from the state border of the Russian Federation. On Twitter, Russias Defense Ministry pinned a Russian-language tweet of the alleged flight escort video to its page, while the clip was tweeted in numerous languages, including Arabic, English, French and Spanish. The date of the encounter is not specified. Lt. Col. Davina Petermann of the U.S. Air Forces in Europe Air Forces Africa Public Affairs Office told Polygraph.info that U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortresses were conducting training flights on March 20 in the Baltics and Poland as a clear and visible demonstration of U.S. commitment to regional security. Petermann said while a U.S. B-52 was exercising its freedom of navigation and overflight in international airspace, it had a routine interaction with a Russian Su-27 while conducting operations over the Baltic Sea. She said the B-52 pilots were using their transponders and operating in line with international law. The Russian aircraft did not chase the B-52 away, and the bomber was able to complete its mission, Petermann said, adding operations and engagements with our allies and partners demonstrate and strengthen our shared commitment to global security and stability. Petermann affirmed the B-52 was not diverted from Russias borders, nor was its course changed, as a result of that "routine interaction," reiterating it was able to complete its mission as scheduled. The B-52s conducted flights from RAF Fairford, England, to Lithuania and Poland for the purposes of interoperability training with NATO Enhanced Forward Presence units, a U.S. Air Force press release read. According to that statement, the B-52s conducted training with NATO Joint Terminal Attack Controllers attached to the multinational battalion battle group in Lithuania and Battle Group Poland. In Lithuania, the B-52s dropped inert munitions and integrated into Close Air Support training alongside Lithuanian L-39 Albatros high-performance training jets, the statement read. The bombers arrived in the area on March 14-16. The statement continued that operating out of forward locations enables collective defense capabilities and provide the U.S. and NATO the strategic and operational breadth needed to deter adversaries and assure our allies and partners. Open Source Flight Information Steffan Watkins, a Canadian IT security consultant and open source intelligence enthusiast, however, disputes portions of the U.S. Air Forces account. He also disputes Russias conclusions. Watkins said that on the day of the intercept, his reading of open source flight trackers indicated that one of the two American planes which flew in formation over the Baltic Sea were using transponders. Watkins said that while the Russian Su-27s photographed the American B-52 numbered 61-0013, there was another with their transponder on, not photographed, that shows up as 60-0061 (which it is not), he told Polygraph.info. The lead plane (60-0061) flew right at the Kaliningrad flight information region and did a 90 degree turn to the right, he said. Watkins claims that as 61-0013 doesnt use a transponder, the Russians were completely justified in intercepting it, just as NATO intercepts (Russian Air Force) flights without transponders (over) the Baltic. Watkins points out that the Russian Su-27 fighter jets did not use transponders, even as the fighters approached U.S. aircraft in international airspace. What I wonder is why the Russians didn't say they intercepted two bombers? Did they miss the other? Was their radar blind? For all we know the U.S. took out the radar with a cyber attack or otherwise blinded them with something sneaky/electronic warfare related, he said, adding those assumptions were highly speculative. That said, Watkins added there is no evidence to support the B-52s were "chased off. The B-52 made a 90 degree right turn right before getting to the Kaliningrad FIR, which, if the Su-27s were headed directly at them, would *sort of* look like they were fleeing... which I'm sure they werent. When contacted regarding Watkins comments, Petermann confirmed to Polygraph.info the plane that had an interaction with the SU-27s was 60-0013. But she dismissed any suggestion that the U.S. Air Force bombers were not using their transponders. All B-52 aircraft are equipped with Mode 3C transponders and they squawk the assigned Air Traffic Control code in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization procedures at all times, Peterman said. Earlier 'Interactions' Between Russian and US Air Forces The March 20 interaction is not the first time disputes have arisen between the Russian and U.S. air forces over international waters. In November, an interaction between a U.S. Navy EP-3E Aries II reconnaissance aircraft flying over the Black Sea in international airspace and a Russian Su-27 fighter jet prompted allegations from the U.S. side of an unsafe flyby. In August 2018, the U.S. Congress and President Donald Trump moved to suspend funding for the Open Skies Treaty after the U.S. accused Russia of not complying with the terms of the international agreement, which allows states to perform a certain number of observation flights over each others territories. And in January 2018, a Su-27 was accused of intimidating a U.S. -3 Aries II in international airspace over the Black Sea after reportedly getting within five feet and crossing directly in front of the U.S. aircraft. The European Leadership Network [ELN], a London-based policy group focusing on defense and security issues, reported that 66 such incidents identifiable from public sources had taken place between March 2014 and March 2015. As for the March 20 incident, the video evidence provided by the Russian Defense Ministry does not corroborate its version of events, while the language used in the Russian state media report appears to sensationalize the Russian government's version of events. The U.S. Air Force information would be dispositive for purposes of this fact check, if it were accompanied by verifiable information, which it is not. As it is, the Air Force statement comports with U.S. and NATO policies regarding operations in the region setting up a verbal disagreement between the two sides. Without additional evidence, Polygraph.info at present finds the Russian claims regarding the incident to be unclear. Should more definitive video, or other information emerge, we will reconsider our verdict. Charleston, SC (29403) Today Partly cloudy skies this evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers late. Thunder possible. Low around 55F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies this evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers late. Thunder possible. Low around 55F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Dr. Douglas Kwazneski was helping a Pittsburgh surgeon remove an appendix when something jarring happened. The surgical stapler meant to cut and seal the tissue around the appendix locked up. Kwazneski later turned to the Food and Drug Administrations public database that tracks medical device failures and "there was nothing," he said. Yet when he surveyed leading surgeons on the matter, he discovered that more than two-thirds had experienced a stapler malfunction, or knew a peer who did. Such failures can have deadly consequences. Kwazneski had no idea the FDA had quietly granted the makers of surgical staplers a special "exemption" allowing them to file reports of malfunctions in a database hidden from doctors and from public view. "I dont want to sound overdramatic here, but it seemed like a cover-up," said Kwazneski, who practiced in Pasco County, Fla., from 2016 through earlier this year. The FDA has built and expanded a vast and hidden repository of reports on device-related injuries and malfunctions, a Kaiser Health News investigation shows. Since 2016, at least 1.1 million incidents have flowed into the internal "alternative summary reporting" repository, instead of being described individually in the widely scrutinized public database known as MAUDE, which medical experts trust to identify problems that could put patients in jeopardy. Deaths must still be reported in MAUDE. But the hidden database has included serious injury and malfunction reports for about 100 medical devices, according to the FDA, many implanted in patients or used in countless surgeries. They have included surgical staplers, balloon pumps snaked into vessels to improve circulation and mechanical breathing machines. An FDA official said that the program is for issues that are "well-known and well-documented with the FDA" and that it was reformed in 2017 as a new voluntary summary reporting program was put in place for up to 5,600 devices. Yet the program, in all its iterations, has been so obscure that it is unknown to many of the doctors and engineers dedicated to improving device safety. Even a former FDA commissioner said he knew nothing of the program. Public has a right to know KHN pored over reams of public records for oblique references to reporting exemptions. After months of questions to the FDA, the agency confirmed the existence of reporting-exemption programs and thousands of never-before-acknowledged instances of malfunctions or harm. Amid the blackout in information about device risks, patients have been injured, hundreds of times in some cases, lawsuits and FDA records show. "The public has a right to know about this," said Dr. S. Lori Brown, a former FDA official who accessed the data for her research. She said doctors relying just on the public reports and unaware that many incidents may be omitted can easily reach the wrong conclusion about the safety record of a particular device. The FDA has also opened additional and equally obscure pathways for device makers to report thousands of injuries brought to light by lawsuits or even deaths that appear in private registries that medical societies use to track patients. Those exemptions apply to risky and controversial products, including pelvic mesh and devices implanted in the heart. FDA spokeswoman Deborah Kotz confirmed that the "registry exemption" was created without any public notice or regulations. "Any device manufacturer can request an exemption from its reporting requirements," she said in an email. Agency records provided to KHN show that more than 480,000 injuries or malfunctions were reported through the alternative summary reporting program in 2017 alone. Alison Hunt, another FDA spokeswoman, said the majority of device makers "exemptions" were revoked that year as a program took shape that requires a "placeholder" report to be filed publicly. More than a million reports of malfunctions or harm spanning about 15 years remain in a database accessible only to the FDA. But with the agencys new transparency push, the public may find a public report and submit a Freedom of Information Act request to get information about incidents. A response can take up to two years. FDA giving away its authority The long-standing exemption program "has allowed the FDA to more efficiently review adverse events and take action when warranted without sacrificing the quality of our review or the information we receive," Hunt said in an email. To those outside the agency, though, the exceptions to the reporting rules are troubling. They strike Madris Tomes, a former FDA manager, as the agency surrendering some of the strongest oversight and transparency powers it wields. "The FDA is basically giving away its authority over device manufacturers," said Tomes, who now runs Device Events, a website that makes FDA device data user-friendly. "If theyve given that up, theyve handed over their ability to oversee the safety and effectiveness of these devices." Doctors, like Kwazneski, who have turned to the public data to gauge the risks of surgical staplers have seen little. He wrote about the "unacknowledged" problem of stapler malfunctions in a 2013 article in the journal Surgical Endoscopy. In 2016, while reports of 84 stapler injuries or malfunctions were openly submitted, nearly 10,000 malfunction reports were included in the hidden database, according to the FDA. Device maker Medtronic, which owns stapler maker Covidien, has been described as the market leader in surgical staplers. A company spokesman said that the firm has used reporting exemptions to file stapler-related reports through July 2017. Ethicon, the other major stapler maker, said it has not. The public database shows that Medtronic has reported more than 250 deaths related to staplers or staples since 2001. Lives are at stake Mark Levering, 62, nearly lost his life after a stapler malfunction early last year, according to a lawsuit filed by his family. His surgeon has testified that a surgical stapler misfired during his liver surgery at ProMedica Toledo Hospital in Ohio. Staff performed CPR for 22 minutes while surgeons rushed to suture the severed vein. He emerged from a coma unable to walk or consistently recognize his wife and son. The surgeon, hospital and device maker Covidien have denied allegations of wrongdoing in an ongoing legal case. Told of the reporting "exemption" for surgical staplers, his wife, Doris Levering, was incredulous. "Why would this information not be made available to doctors? The true information I mean the actual numbers," she said. " Peoples lives are at stake. Marks life will never be the same." The sheer number of malfunctions made surgical staplers an easy pick for the new alternative summary reporting program at its inception nearly 20 years ago, according to Larry Kessler, a former FDA official and now a University of Washington health services professor. Surgical staplers have a unique ability to help or harm patients. The device is designed to cut and seal tissues or vessels quickly, often during minimally invasive surgeries. When it fails to seal a major blood vessel, medical staff can quickly shift into "code blue" mode to rescue a patient from bleeding to death. The severity of some of the injuries caught former FDA official Browns attention in the early years of its reporting exemption. Her 2004 article on stapler mishaps, published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, accounts for one of the few places in public records where an FDA authority mentions the "alternative summary" program. She found that in the first 28 months of filing to the hidden database, stapler makers filed more than 5,100 reports of malfunctions or injuries. She also noted that the publicly reported 112 stapler-related deaths in patients aged 22 to 91 from 1994 to 2001 were a "reason for concern." In the public data filed since, it would appear that the staplers rarely misfire. In 2011, only 18 injury or malfunction reports were filed publicly. Last year, the number was 79. Sudden turnaround Lawsuits detail how quickly a stapler failure can turn a smooth surgery into a catastrophe. In Michigan, Eugene Snooks surgeon was in the process of removing part of his lung when he cut but couldnt seal a major vessel due to a "stapler malfunction," the surgeon said in sworn court testimony. Snook, then 59, had no detectable blood pressure for four minutes during the 2012 surgery. The damage to Snooks artery was so great, his surgeon decided to remove his lung completely, medical records filed in court say. Snook sued stapler maker Covidien, which in court records said there was no proof the stapler was unsafe when it left Covidiens control and also that the surgeon used it improperly. The case reached a confidential settlement in 2017. Another surgeon attempting to remove a benign liver growth from April Strange, 33, in 2013, testified that a stapler malfunction caused the woman to bleed to death. Strange, of central Illinois, left behind a husband and two daughters, then 6 and 8. The stapler was thrown out after surgery, court records say. Covidien argued in court records that Ryan Strange couldnt prove that the stapler had a specific defect. Covidien reached an agreement to settle the familys claims for $250,000, part of a larger settlement in the case. Doctors initially thought Mark Levering had liver cancer. So when the diagnosis came back as an abscess that needed to be surgically removed last February, it came as a relief to his wife, Doris. That relief turned to dread the day of surgery. The procedure was supposed to last two hours, she said. But the surgery hit a snag when the stapler "misfired," according to the surgeon, causing so much bleeding that the minimally invasive procedure was converted to an open procedure so the doctor could suture the vein. Levering underwent CPR for 22 minutes. A code blue was called, a nurse testified. Levering lost 3 quarts of blood about half the blood in his body. He was put on life support and would remain in a coma for weeks. After Levering reopened his eyes, it was clear that the man who used to tend to stray cats and enjoy dinner out with his family was gone. Levering could no longer walk, comb his hair or recognize the letters of the alphabet. Doris and Mark Levering have sued the doctor, hospital and surgical stapler maker, alleging that the device caused Marks bleeding and brain injury. The surgeon has acknowledged in sworn testimony that the stapler malfunctioned, but denied other wrongdoing. The hospital said in a legal filing that its actions were "prudent, proper" and "lawful." Covidien denies any defect with the stapler or that it caused Leverings injuries. A spokesman for parent company Medtronic declined to comment further on any lawsuit but said that "we always make patient safety our top priority" and that the company complies with FDA requirements. The companys reports of stapler problems in the public database remain relatively low. But in 2018, with the reporting exemption gone, a spike of reports emerged for Covidiens staples not to be confused with staplers. While Medtronic reported 1,000 staple malfunctions or injuries in 2015, the number soared to 11,000 for 2018. Paperwork reduction The alternative summary reporting program started two decades ago with a simple goal: to cut down on redundant paperwork, according to officials who were at the FDA at the time. Kessler, the former FDA official, said the program took shape after scandals over under-reporting of device problems spurred changes allowing criminal penalties against device companies. Soon, thousands of injury and malfunction reports poured into the agency each month, with about 15 staff members dedicated to reviewing them, Kessler said. Many reports were so similar that reviewing them individually was "mind-numbing." Kessler went to the FDAs legal department and to device manufacturers to propose a solution. Device makers would be able to seek a special "exemption" to avoid reporting certain complications to the public database. The manufacturers would instead send the FDA a spreadsheet of injury or malfunctions each quarter, half-year or year. That way, Kessler said, reviewers could quickly look for new problems or spikes in known issues. When the program launched in 2000, the list of exempted devices was made public and only a few devices were involved, Kessler said. "I dont know why its not (made public) now," he said. "Im surprised about that." Starting in September, KHN filed Freedom of Information Act requests for "exemption" agreements and reports for several medical devices. Health and Human Services officials denied an appeal to provide some of the records quickly, concluding there was no "compelling need" for haste. For one request, the records were estimated to arrive in 22 months. The FDA did provide some top-level data. It shows that from 2014 through 2017, the overall number of alternative summary reports filed by device makers rose from 431,000 to 481,000. The FDA declined to provide a complete list of "about 100" devices that have been granted reporting exemptions over the years, but confirmed that exemptions have been used for mechanical breathing machines and balloon pumps, known as intra-aortic balloon pumps, inserted in the vessels of people with circulation problems. An FDA spokeswoman said "alternative summary" exemptions remain in place for pacemaker electrodes and implantable defibrillators. Matthew Baretich, a biomedical engineer in the Denver area, said he helps several area health systems analyze device-related patient injuries and make equipment-purchasing decisions. He said he regularly scans the FDAs public device-injury reports. Asked about "alternative summary" reports, he said, "Ive got to tell you, thats a new term to me." Secret program Even Dr. Robert Califf, former FDA deputy commissioner and commissioner from 2015 to 2017, said in an interview that he was unaware of the program. "Never heard anything about it," he said. "Its interesting." Companies that get the exemptions tend to be very "tight-lipped" about them, said Christine Posin, a former device firm manager and consultant to device companies. The relative secrecy around the program can give them an advantage, she said. For instance, sales representatives can print out only the public reports of device problems, ignoring whats buried elsewhere. That creates a business opportunity to persuade a doctor to try a different device. "We have a good product that does the same thing," Posin said a sales representative might tell a physician. The FDA has spent millions, convened experts and pledged to improve its work in device safety in recent years. All the while, it has quietly opened new avenues for the makers of controversial and risky devices to file injury and even death reports with little public review. Pelvic mesh is one example. The fabriclike device has long been used to hold up pelvic organs in women experiencing organ prolapse. In 2011, the FDA issued a "safety communication" saying "serious complications" like pain or infection were "not rare." The agency soon reclassified the device, ordered safety studies and saw most mesh makers remove the device from the market. Behind closed doors, though, the agency has since granted pelvic mesh makers a special exemption from reporting injuries to the public, according to the FDA and mesh makers who were asked about the practices. Under what the FDA calls the "litigation complaint summary reporting" exemption, device makers can file a single placeholder "injury" report. Attached to the summary report, device makers have sent the FDA a spreadsheet with as many as 1,175 reports of patient injuries, based on allegations in lawsuits. To someone tallying the overall number of injuries related to pelvic mesh, the report would appear as a single injury. It would take a sharp eye to find the summary report and a special request taking up to two years to be filled to get the details on the 1,175 cases submitted directly to the FDA. 12,000 reports whisked away According to the FDA, in 2017 alone, eight mesh makers used their exemptions to send nearly 12,000 injury reports to the FDA. Dr. M. Tom Margolis, a urogynecologist in the San Francisco Bay Area and an expert medical witness for those who are suing mesh makers, said a program that might hinder doctors relying on open FDA data to assess the risks of mesh is "horrible" and "unethical." "We need to know the good and the bad," said Margolis, who treats patients in his urogynecology practice. "If youre trying to hide complications from me, well thats wrong, my God, its heinous." The FDA issued the same kind of exemption to the makers of da Vinci surgical robots months after Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine researchers pointed out that the company was filing a notably small number of injury reports in the public database. Johns Hopkins professor Dr. Marty Makary noted in 2013 that the handful of reports sent to the FDA at the time were signs of a "haphazard" system that is "not independent and not transparent." Within months, the FDA allowed the makers of the robots to file a single report, noting that a spreadsheet sent straight to the FDA summarizes about 1,400 injuries alleged in lawsuits, with some injuries dating to 2004. Since then, the device maker has reported smaller batches of 99 and 130 injuries at a time. "This is very frustrating," said Homa Alemzadeh, an assistant professor of computer engineering at the University of Virginia who is working with MAUDE data to create software to identify errors in real time or before they happen in surgeries performed by robots. She said she was not aware of the reporting exemption. Under another reporting exemption, the FDA is allowing device makers to report hundreds of death cases in spreadsheets sent directly to the agency. Under the "registry exemption," device makers can summarize what they learn from registries that tend to be held by specialty medical societies, and track the use of a certain kind of device, according to FDA spokeswoman Kotz. Kotz said the data in registries often falls short of the level of detail that the FDA seeks for the more thorough death reports that device makers are required to file. Last year, the FDA finalized regulations for yet another summary reporting program. Under the newest system, device makers do not have to seek an exemption or notify the FDA that theyll be filing a public summary report in MAUDE. The FDA has deemed the makers of more than 5,600 types of devices eligible to file "voluntary malfunction summary reports." Among them are some of the riskiest devices the agency oversees, including cardiac stents, leadless pacemakers and mechanical heart valves. The growing cadre of exceptions to the injury- and death-reporting rules strikes Dr. Michael Carome, director of the Public Citizen Health Research Group, as a retreat by the FDA from making crucial information available for researchers and patients. "Its just another example of a flawed oversight system," he said, "bent toward making it easier for industry rather than making protection of public health the primary goal." Several people have asked me what effect this winters extreme cold will have on emerald ash borer. This has been a common topic in tree pest publications and conversations among tree care experts. While research does indicate that extreme cold temperatures can cause high mortality in overwinter EAB larva, it will not kill all of the insects. Research shows that temperatures of 20 below zero will kill 79 percent of overwintering larva. Temperatures of 30 below F will kill 98 percent. I guess we can hope for even colder weather in areas where EAB is established. Even though this seems very positive, it will not stop EAB from expanding its range in Minnesota. It just temporarily reduces the population. When one considers that it only takes one piece of infested firewood to be moved to a new area to establish a population of EAB, it becomes clear that killing 80 percent of the insects is just a minor setback in the insects population growth. If we could count on 30 below temperatures every winter, the cold would be an effective control until the insect develops more cold-hardy populations. A reader asked: I have seen articles about a wasp that feeds on emerald ash borer. Will this stop the insect from infesting my trees? A stingless wasp that feeds on EAB larva has been introduced into Minnesota. Hopes are that this wasp will reduce populations of EAB and slow the progression of the EAB population in this region. It will not, however, stop the spread of EAB and entirely protect our ash populations. The wasp is only known to feed on EAB larva, so there must be an established population of EAB for the wasp to survive. Populations of the wasp will fluctuate up and down within an area dictated by the level of EAB that is available as a food source. Regular ongoing treatment of trees with a an insecticide labeled for EAB will still be the only way to protect ash trees once EAB is established in an area. The University of Minnesota and Minnesota Department of Agriculture are still recommending that treatment not be started until EAB is found within a 20-mile radius. The following link is to a current map showing infestation areas in Minnesota: gis.mda.state.mn.us/eab. All quadrants of Rochester and surrounding communities now have established populations. Any homeowner who wants to protect ash trees should already be treating or have their trees evaluated for treatment by this summer. The best defense against EAB? Dont move firewood, which moves infestations to new areas. Once a population is established within 10 miles, shade trees may be treated with registered insecticides, which provide excellent control. Removal of poor-quality ash and replanting with a diverse variety of trees is a good long-term management strategy. PQ During the nearly three years of Japanese occupation, 1,170 Guamanians were killed, with another 14,721 suffering from atrocities of war beatings, forced labor, torture, rape, murder, beheadings, massacres, forced marches and concentration camps, according to Guampedia.com. Charles Greene, 93, and Robert Clemons, 95, are among 14 World War II veterans who traveled to Guam and then to Iwo Jima this week. Ten of the veterans fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945. The veterans, along with family members and guides, are part of a group of tours that visited historical war sites on Saipan, Tinian and Guam. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Clemons, an Arkansas resident, said his son has been "bugging him for 10 years to make the trip to Iwo Jima. So, I finally gave in and said we will do it, he said, speaking to The Guam Daily Post after attending a symposium Friday at the Outrigger Guam Resort in Tumon. Clemons, a Marine Corps veteran, was part of the U.S. military campaign that ended the Japanese occupation of Guam in World War II. He said he met Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero during his recent visit, and he said she gave him a hug and thanked him. While his time on Guam this time around was pleasant, his memories of the war are not. Everything was difficult at the time. Staying alive was difficult, Clemons said. He said he was lucky to survive. I did what I signed up to do. I didnt like it, but thats what I did, he said. Clemons said he now feels great having played a part in liberating Guam from Japanese forces. The full liberation of Guam took three weeks in 1944, with 1,800 U.S. servicemen killed and casualties totaling 7,400, according to Guampedia.com. Japanese casualties reached about 17,500, the website stated. During the nearly three years of Japanese occupation, 1,170 Guamanians were killed, with another 14,721 suffering from atrocities of war beatings, forced labor, torture, rape, murder, beheadings, massacres, forced marches and concentration camps, Guampedia stated. As for Iwo Jima, Clemons said, it will be his first trip back there "and the last. In 36 days of fighting on Iwo Jima in 1945, nearly 7,000 U.S. Marines were killed and 20,000 wounded, the National WWII Museum stated. Traveling from his home in California, Greene, a medical corpsman with the Navy during the war, said he administered medical services to the locals during the liberation of Guam. My memory was that the CHamoru people were all good Catholics and very gracious to us, he said. Greene said he had been looking forward to visiting Guam again. I have always wanted to come back to Guam, Greene said, I have never wanted to go back to Iwo Jima. Officials are concerned that the omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 is already among us - even if official tests havent yet confirmed it. Read more Robert Mueller is closing up shop. He has delivered his report to Attorney General Barr. No more indictments will be secured by his office: CNN hardest hit. What have we learned? Paul comments cautiously here. I throw caution out the window to make these provisional observations and comments. Mueller has secured the indictment of 34 individuals (and three companies). A few of the individuals would have rolled merrily along but for their association with the Trump 2016 presidential campaign or their service in the Trump administration. The lions share of those indicted are Russians who are alleged to have interfered illegally in the campaign from a metaphorical basement in Moscow and one Maria Butina, who did her thing as a Russian agent in the United States. In toto, Mueller indicted 25 or 26 Russian nationals (and the three companies). Muellers indictments of the 13 Muscovites in the basement and 12 Russian GRU officers are of the show-business variety. They will not see the inside of an American courtroom. They will roll merrily along, period. Michael Flynns case deserves a book, a serious one by an honest reporter among the few who remain uncompromised by their coverage of the Mueller investigation. Flynns prosecution appears to be a put-up job by remnants of the Obama administration in the Department of Justice, the FBI, and the intelligence community. Recall that he was investigated for the act of talking to the Russian ambassador during the transition after Trumps election. The Logan Act served as the pretext. Whats law got to do with it? Flynns investigation reeks of bad faith. From it we can derive the sorry lesson never to speak to the FBI if one is under investigation. If only he had declined the FBIs invitation, he might have rolled merrily along. I believe we have yet to see an unredacted copy of Muellers charter. Perhaps now that he is closing up shop we can see the whole thing. Muellers original appointment by Rod Rosenstein triggered by James Comeys firing indirectly specified the counterintelligence investigation by the FBI in which the Trump campaign had been caught up since mid-2016. The regulations nevertheless fail to authorize the appointment of Special Counsel under the circumstances. Picking up on the observations of NRs Andrew McCarthy, Rosenstein promulgated a formal written charter setting out the scope of his investigation even if it still failed to identify the possible crime(s) he was to investigate. We have all operated on the assumption that the gravamen of Muellers investigation was alleged collusion by the Trump presidential campaign with Russians interfering with the election. See, e.g., the FISA warrant taken out on Carter Page. His reputation duly impaired, Carter Page still rolls merrily along. One inference we can draw from the Mueller investigation: Carter Page is the cleanest man in the United States. Perhaps now that the Mueller investigation is closing up shop we can see the whole FISA warrant. The political corruption of the FBI and the intelligence agencies by the Obama administration was to remain a deep, dark secret. If the the American people had not had the temerity to elect Donald Trump along with a Republican Congress in 2016, we would have remained in blissful ignorance. After such knowledge what forgiveness? The corruption wrought appears to extend to the federal courts. The FISA warrant on Carter Page was renewed three times. Four federal judges each one appointed to the FISA court by Chief Justice Roberts signed off on it. They have yet to speak up, but I will say that at the least they were ill-used. Another lesson to be drawn is that the FISA regime needs to be reformed. The Mueller report will undoubtedly speak to President Trumps alleged obstruction of the FBI investigation. Trump fired James Comey, but the investigation too rolled merrily along. Indeed, it roiled the first two years of the Trump administration. No indictment secured by Mueller speaks to collusion. There is a reason for this. Collusion was itself a fabrication of the Clinton presidential campaign courtesy of Glenn Simpson/Fusion GPS and its contractors. The Mueller investigation leaves human wreckage in its wake. Whatever the Mueller report says, it will leave the Clinton campaign untouched and unscathed. The Mueller investigation takes its place as an extended episode of the biggest scandal in American political history. Now what? I agree with Paul and Stanley Kurtz that President Trumps order on campus free speech represents a significant step forward. The Minneapolis Star Tribune, on the other hand, quotes Minnesota education authorities assuring us the order wont change a thing: President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday upholding freedom of speech on college campuses a move some local higher education officials shrugged off as a highly visible case of preaching to the choir. *** The U declined to comment Thursday on the likely impact of the order, instead saying it stands behind a statement from the Association of American Universities, of which it is a member. The statement said member institutions are already fully committed to upholding free speech, making the order a solution in search of a problem. Right. For a contrary view, the Strib turned to my daughter, the go-to conservative student in local media. She has personal experience with the extent to which Minnesotas colleges are fully committed to upholding free speech. Meanwhile, South Dakota has passed the first-ever state law intended to assure free speech in local universities. The text of the bill is here. The law, signed into law on Wednesday by Governor Kristi Noem, is impressive. It applies to the South Dakota Board of Regents and the states six public universities, and reads like a free speech wish list: The Board of Regents shall require each institution under its control to maintain a commitment to the principles of free expression and encourage the timely and rational discussion of topics in an environment that is intellectually and ideologically diverse. Neither the Board of Regents nor any institution under its control may attempt to shield individuals from constitutionally protected speech, including ideas and opinions they find offensive, unwise, immoral, indecent, disagreeable, conservative, liberal, traditional, radical, or wrong-headed. I like the laundry list. No free speech zones in South Dakotas universities: Any outdoor area within the boundaries of a public institution of higher education constitutes a designated public forum for the benefit of students, faculty, administrators, other employees, and their invited guests, to engage in expressive activity, unless access to the area is otherwise properly restricted. *** An institution may not designate any area within its boundaries as a free speech zone or otherwise restrict expressive activities to particular areas within its boundaries in a manner that is inconsistent with this section. Student organizations must be treated equally: A public institution of higher education, its faculty, administrators, and other employees, may not discriminate against any student or student organization based on the content or viewpoint of their expressive activity. Funds allocated to student organizations shall be distributed in a nondiscriminatory manner in accordance with applicable state and federal authority. Access to, and use of, facilities at a public institution of higher education shall be equally available to all student organizations, regardless of the ideological, political, or religious beliefs of the organization. An institution may not prohibit an ideological, political, or religious student organization from requiring that its leaders or members of the organization affirm and adhere to the organizations sincerely held beliefs, comply with the organizations standards of conduct, or further the organizations mission or purpose, as defined by the organization. That last provision is important. Many universities have tried to undermine conservative student groups by requiring them to accept as members and officers students whose views are antithetical to the organizations missionthis in the name of inclusion. And finally: On or before December first of each year, the Board of Regents shall prepare and submit to the Governor and each member of the legislature a report that: (1) Sets forth all actions taken by each institution to promote and ensure intellectual diversity and the free exchange of ideas; and (2) Describes any events or occurrences that impeded intellectual diversity and the free exchange of ideas. Governor Noem issued a statement when she signed the bill: Our university campuses should be places where students leave their comfort zones and learn about competing ideas and perspectives, Noem said in a release. I hope this bill lets the nation know that in South Dakota, we are teaching our next generation to debate important issues, work together to solve problems, and think independently. It would be great if more states would follow South Dakotas lead. I suppose the biggest limitation of such a law is that it takes a state like South Dakota not only to pass it, but to enforce it. And the good news keeps on coming: at Amherst, which has long been considered one of our goofiest liberal campuses, the colleges President revoked an astonishingly ignorant missive from the colleges Office of Diversity and Inclusionas always, an Orwellian name. The good guys College Republicans and everyone else who values the free speech enshrined in the U.S. Constitution notched a victory this week at Amherst College when its president shot down its own Office of Diversity and Inclusions Common Language Guide it emailed to students which laid out PC definitions for everything from capitalism to transgenderism to how to address illegal immigrants, or as they prefer it, undocumented persons. Amherst Colleges PC polemic frowned upon differentiating between legal and illegal immigration status, dont like assimilation and derided capitalism as an economic and political system in which a countrys trade and industry are controlled by private owners for profit rather than by the state. This system leads to exploitative labor practices which affect marginalized groups disproportionately. Those last two sentences are the dumbest I have seen in a long time. Amhersts College Republicans protested, and college president Biddy Martin astonishingly agreed setting herself apart as a flicker of common sense in American academia today issuing a statement saying the document should never have gone out to the student body, as it runs counter to the core academic values of freedom of thought and expression. I was not aware that the document was being produced and I did not approve its circulation. It cuts against our efforts to foster open exchange and independent thinking. There is no shortage of bad news these days. It is good to see advances being made on the free speech front. As Steve notes, special counsel Robert Mueller has submitted his report to attorney general William Barr. This completes the Mueller investigation, though not its outgrowth in the office of the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. Fox News reports that Mueller has not recommended any new indictments. Thus, President Trump will not be indicted based on the Mueller report. What we dont know is why. Is it because Mueller has concluded that the U.S. president cant be indicted while in office? Is it because Mueller has concluded that Trump did not do anything wrong, either by way of colluding with Russia or interfering with the administration of justice? Or is it because Mueller has concluded, James Comey style, that Trump did collude and/or interfere but that his conduct doesnt rise to the level of a crime? I hope well find out which of these conclusions Mueller reached. I think the public has the right to know, especially given all the time, money, and drama associated with Muellers investigation. However, I get the impression that Barr is going to play Muellers report by the book, disclosing only as much as Justice Department rules and protocol call for. Thus, if Mueller concluded that Trump engaged in wrongdoing but not criminality, were unlikely to get a Comey-like performance laying this out. I hope, however, that Barr errs on the side of transparency. PR-Inside.com: 2019-03-23 18:18:15 Press Information Research Report Insights Contact Us: Research Report Insights (RRI) 42 Joseph Street Port carling P0B 1J0 Muskoka, Ontario1 Phone - +1-631-721-4201 Website: https://www.researchreportinsights.com/ Email: sales@researchreportinsights.com BISHU TL +1631721420 email https://www.researchreportinsights.com # 614 Words Contact Us:Research Report Insights (RRI)42 Joseph StreetPort carling P0B 1J0Muskoka, Ontario1Phone - +1-631-721-4201Website: https://www.researchreportinsights.com/Email: sales@researchreportinsights.comTL+1631721420 Liquid Applied Membrane (LAM) is a lowly thickness waterproofing film that is employed in the form of a liquid covering to vertical along with horizontal surfaces. The LAM is, in addition, believed as a cutting-edge waterproofing chemical as well as its solid, consistent property, in addition to the ability to comply with each setup is making its need increase in the worldwide construction industry. 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It can also improve the look and feel of the home with a modern and up to date appearance.Getting new, modern installations can also help to improve the safety of the kitchen, while adding to property value, comfort and appeal.Anyone in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area looking to transform their home with a new installation or new cabinets can get in touch with AV Cabinetry LLC for all their project needs.Those wishing to find out more can visit their website or their Google Business site: https://avcabinetryllc.business.site Contact Info:Name: James KennedyEmail: Send EmailOrganization: AV Cabinetry LLCAddress: 47001 Mona Street #2, Tea, SD 57064, United StatesPhone: +1-605-777-0100Website: https://avcabinetry.com SOURCE: AV Cabinetry About 3,050 young entrepreneurs from 54 African countries were on Friday unveiled as the beneficiaries of the 2019 Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme. The Foundation said in a statement after the unveiling ceremony in Abuja that it would directly fund 1,000 of the entrepreneurs, with an additional 2,050 beneficiaries to be supported by partners. The beneficiaries of the $100 million fund committed to empowering African entrepreneurs emerged after undergoing a selection process by Accenture Development Partners. The foundation said its list of partners has continued to grow over the five years of its existence. The latest partners include the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Federal Republic of Benin (Seme City), the Anambra State Government, Indorama Petrochemical Limited, the Government of Botswana and the African Development Bank (AfDB). This year, the foundation said over 216,000 applications were received, about 43 per cent increase from last years 151,000. From the number of applications, the foundation said almost 90,000 were submitted by female entrepreneurs, an increase of 45 per cent, in line with its strategy to promote greater gender equity. The foundation said each of the selected entrepreneurs will each receive a non- refundable $5,000 (approx N1.7 million) of seed capital, in addition to access to mentors, and a 12-week business training programme directly focused on the needs of African entrepreneurs. On July 26 27 2019, the successful applicants will gather at the TEF Entrepreneurship Forum, the largest annual gathering of African entrepreneurs and the entrepreneurship ecosystem on the continent. TEF Founder, Tony Elumelu, unveiled the beneficiaries as part of his 56th birthday celebration. He said governments, businesses, and indeed the entire African society must harness their resources to transform the economies and peoples livelihoods. Every year, we face an almost impossible task to select 1,000. Our entrepreneurs are hungry to effect change. We know we are only scratching the surface. We see the depth of entrepreneurial talent. We must rally together to empower the people and accelerate the change we want on the continent, Mr Elumelu said. The wife of the president, Aisha Buhari, who attended the event commended the programmes impact on the continent. She charged the selected entrepreneurs to contribute meanifully to the advancement of the African continent. Indeed, I am confident these Tony Elumelu entrepreneurs will inspire deep confidence and be of immense value not just to Nigeria but to the entire continent, she said. The incoming CEO of the Foundation, Ifeyinwa Ugochukwu, said the entrepreneurship programme has successfully empowered 7,520 entrepreneurs in its first five years. The fifth anniversary of the 10-year programme, she said, includes 2,050 entrepreneurs, supported by the foundations partners in addition to 1,000 entrepreneurs it was committed to empower annually. Last year, Mrs Ugochukwu said the foundation launched TEFConnect, the digital networking platform for African entrepreneurs. The platform, she said, was open to all, to further democratise the access to opportunities for the thousands of entrepreneurs that cannot directly benefit from our Entrepreneurship Programme. This further demonstrates our commitment to empowering our entrepreneurs and our belief that entrepreneurship holds the key to unleashing the true potential of the African continent, Mrs Ugochukwu said. The local government collation officer for Gboko Local Government Area, Comfort Dooshima, has been shot by unknown gunmen in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. Ms Doshima, a professor and lecturer at the University of Agriculture was on her way to the INEC headquarters, Makurdi, to present results from the local government. She has been rushed to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital. Benue is one of five states where supplementary governorship elections were held on Saturday. The others are Sokoto, Plateau, Bauchi and Kano. In all the five states, the contest is between the APC and the PDP. Details later.. The final collation of the supplementary election results in Benue State has started. The collation is holding at the INEC state headquarters in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. Before the supplementary election, Governor Samuel Ortom of the PDP, who scored 410,576 votes, had a lead of 81,554 votes over Emmanuel Jime of the APC who scored 329,022 votes. The supplementary election was held in 204 polling units in 22 local governments, with the total number of registered voters being 121,299. Present at the venue of the collation is Festus Okoye, national commissioner in charge of Information and voter education, as well as INEC officials from Kwara and Niger states. Stay on this page for live updates of the Benue results. The federal government has commiserated with the government and people of Ghana over the loss of more than 50 lives resulting from a head on collission involving two public transport buses. The accident occurred in the early hours of Friday. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, said this in a statement by the ministrys spokesperson, George Edokpa, on Friday in Abuja. According to him, the accident, which led to the injury of several others, occurred on the Kintampo Techiman Road, Bono East Region, Ghana. The minister commended the emergency services for their efforts in rescuing passengers trapped in the vehicles. He offered Nigerias fervent prayers for the quick recovery of those injured, condoled those that lost loved ones and convened Nigerias solidarity in their time of grief. (NAN) The European Union (EU) has congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on his re-election. A statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to the president on Saturday, said the Union expressed willingness to work with his administration. Mr Buhari was declared the winner of the February 23 presidential election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Below is the statement: EUROPEAN UNION CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT BUHARI ON RE-ELECTION; SEEKS INCREASED COOPERATION ON BILATERAL AND INTERNATIONAL MATTERS The European Union has congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on his re-election as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and expressed willingness to work with his government. In a letter dated March 22, 2019, and jointly signed by Donald Tusk for the European Council and Jean-Claude Juncker for the European Commission, the Union said. On behalf of the European Union, we would like to congratulate you on your re-election as the President of Nigeria. We look forward to your leadership in strengthening democracy and uniting the country in line with the principles and spirit of the 2019 Abuja Peace Accord, and the EU is willing to work with your government to follow up on the recommendations of our Election Observation Mission. The European Union also reiterated Nigerias important position in world affairs and the Union especially What happens in Nigeria matters to the rest of the world, including to Europe. Your commitment to an inclusive government offers an opportunity to take Nigeria forward in a way that meets your objectives of strengthening the economy, fighting corruption and improving security. The European Union has always partnered with Nigeria and its people. We look forward to continued and increased cooperation on bilateral and international matters, the statement said. The Union wished President Buhari more success in promoting peace and prosperity for all Nigerians as he enters the new mandate. Femi Adesina Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity) March 23, 2019 The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) on Saturday graduated 20, 799 students for the 2019 with 103 of them getting First Class honours in various academic disciplines. Prof. Abdalla Adamu, NOUNs Vice Chancellor, disclosed this during the institutions convocation ceremony in Abuja. According to him, the university has the highest single graduation of students in a single year in Nigeria, urging them to be good ambassadors in the society. The massive increase in the number of graduands this year is a clear indication of increasing confidence reposed by Nigerians. The university in the last three years has continued to grow in leaps and bounds, maintaining e central credo in order to solve its problem. As a weapon of mass instruction, people are now accepting Open Distance Learning (ODL) as a way and system of self-training, he said. Mr Adamu said that the Presidential Assent to the amendment of NOUN Bill would empower the institution to enter into negotiations with the authorities in charge of the Law School and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). He said NOUN also had the same power and functions and the same administrative structures as other universities, thus eliminating discrimination against its products. NOUN together with 44 universities entered the open competition and its proposal on technologically enhanced learning was adjudged winner of the category. In addition, the center will offer six short courses in Leaders and project management, database management, learning technology and enterprise architecture. However, I also congratulate the students who with much dedication made it to this point, I challenge you to remain good ambassadors of the university, he said. (NAN) Iyabo Toluhi (nee Adesanmi), the elder sister of the late Pius Adesanmi, on Saturday described the death of his brother as a great loss to the family and community. Mrs Toluhi, spoke in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the sideline of Memorial Mass held in honour of the deceased at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in his home town in Itedo-Ijowa, Isanlu, Yagba East, LGA, Kogi State. Mr Adesanmi, a professor, and 156 others on board, died in the ill-fated Ethiopian Airlines flight ET302 on March 10. The elder sister to the late professor, with tears rolling down her eyes, told NAN that it was really difficult for her to talk about her younger brother. She said her brothers death was a great loss to the family as he was the only son among three children of their mother. We appreciate the whole world the way they have celebrated our brother, Bola (Pius), the last born and only son among the three siblings of our parent, she said. Pius was a very hard working and a highly intelligent man, right from the nursery, primary, secondary and tertiary schools. He was an excellent child in school. We thank God for the life he lived and that is what we are seeing now, how people all over the world are celebrating him. It shows the kind of life he had lived. He loved and cared for his people including his immediate, nuclear, and extended family including his community, she said. NAN reports that Rev. Fr. (Dr) Kunle James, of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Isanlu, appealed to Kogi Government to pay the gratuity and pension of Adesanmis mothers (Mrs Lois Olufunke Adesanmi), saying it was the greatest tribute and major honour they could give to him. The government has said so many great things about the late professor, but we are appealing to the government to pay his mothers pension and gratuity, Mr James told NAN in an interview. However, Folashade Ayoade, the Secretary to Kogi Government, told NAN that the state government would expedite action on the payment of the late Mr Adesanmis mothers gratuity. We learnt that she retired from Kogi civil service, and her gratuity had not been paid. We will make sure as a government we expedite action on the payment of her gratuity, and we shall be in constant touch with his daughter and the wife, Mrs Ayoade pledged. The delegation from the Kogi State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, led by its Permanent Secretary, Eric Aina, had earlier on Saturday paid a condolence visit to the aged mother of the late scholar. The late Mr Adesanmi was born on February 27, 1972. Before his death, he was the director of the Institute of African Studies at Carleton University, in Ottawa, Canada. He joined the university in 2006 after spending three years at Pennsylvania State University in United States, where he was assistant professor of comparative literature. He was educated at Titcombe College, Egbe, Kogi state, University of Ilorin, University of Ibadan and University of British Columbia. (NAN) The Centre for Democracy and Development(CDD) has warned of severe consequences in the areas of security and the credibility of the ballot if the relevant authorities, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fail to properly tackle the obvious threats. In its preliminary report on the supplementary elections holding across 89 local governments areas in five states on Saturday, the centre noted the desperation of politicians and political parties to win the election with heightened tensions and tendencies to violence. The centre also noted that the respective states had shown signs of possible violence and disruptions following allegations and counter allegations, coupled with statements from the police. Activities of vote buying and vote suppression, according to the centre, had become noticeable in the areas where elections would hold on Saturday. According to CDD, the elections would hold in 201 Registration Areas (RAs) and 324 Polling Units (PUs) across the five states, while there are 362,705 registered voters in the 324 PUs. In the report signed by its Director, Idayat Hassan, the centre said although INEC had made efforts to get materials and ad-hoc staff early to their respective stations, the commission needed to take a further look at the finality of card readers and the welfare of its electoral officers. However, we wish to draw the attention of INEC to the perennial problem of malfunctioning of Smart Card Readers (SCRs) and the challenge of welfare and safety of ad-hoc officials which characterised the general elections, the report stated. INEC should ensure that functional SCRs are available at PUs, re-train ad-hoc to optimise its performance and provide adequate logistics arrangement ahead of the supplementary elections. This is extremely important to building trust and confidence in the electoral process. The centre noted that reports available to it suggested that the political tempo had heightened in the affected states, as politicians had been making unbecoming and provocative statements that could trigger violence in the lead-up and during the elections. Benue state is to be watched closely. APC and PDP have raised an alarm over irregularities, alleging the use of militia in army uniform to intimidate voters during the supplementary election, stated the report. The parties are locked in a battle of survival as the election draws closer. The PDP in the state has deployed its senior party stalwarts to serve as poll agents, possibly to counter any form of manipulations. The Benue Youth Forum (BYF) has alleged the mobilisation of armed thugs from Kogi state to disrupt the process. More so, security agencies must take these allegations seriously and swiftly respond to any potential threats before they escalate. In Kano, the state governor and the APC has alleged that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso paid thousands of yan tauri (hunters), mobilised to cause havoc during the rerun election. According to the allegation, the hunters will be drafted within and outside the state in the pretence of securing leaders of the PDP. The APC says the aim of mobilising these hunters is to subdue the security agencies and oppress their party supporters. In Plateau, Governor Dalung, who is in the clear lead has raised security concerns as the state heads for supplementary election, attributing the killing of about 82 and rustling of about 30 cows as politically motivated, which may have a backlash effect, resulting in the farmers-herdsmen crisis. The police say it has a credible report that some people have finalised plans to disrupt polling during the rerun. But that they are ready, well prepared to provide security during and after the polls. In Sokoto, where the incumbent Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of the PDP leads Alhaji Aliyu Ahmed of the APC with 3,468 votes in the inconclusive election, there is a fifty-fifty chance of any of the two candidates emerging as the winner. The lead margin was lower than the 75,403 votes cancelled in 136 polling units in 22 local government areas of the state. The political gladiators in the state are mobilising for their respective candidates ahead of the supplementary election across the 22 LGAs. The political parties, by all means, will play any role to secure victory for their party. In this case, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko who won his re-election under the APC and orchestrated a big win for the APC in the State is a factor one need to look out for in the supplementary election, while the likes of Attahiru Bafarwa cannot be underestimated in his calculation to get the incumbent secure the ticket. In the state, the police command has assured voters of a peaceful rerun poll, but the Nigerian Army, a few days ago embarked on Show of Force exercise on the streets of the city, outwardly sending a signal to political thugs and trouble makers to stay away from the polling areas. The military says it was ready to confront all security challenges during and after the elections. In Bauchi, the late decision by INEC to go ahead with governorship rerun except in Tafawa Balewa is causing some concern. They would still have to wait for the courts to determine the Tafawa Balewa case before they can declare the governorship result. Security concerns were the lead factor that resulted in the cancellation of elections in many of the affected polling units in the state. The call for calm by elder statesmen in Kano and Benue is a welcome development. Thus, as the politicians slug it out ahead of the elections, politicians and their supporters must desist from disrupting the process, particularly in areas considered a stronghold of opposition, through the use of thugs. CDD further charge the security operatives to adequately deploy its personnel to ensure the safety of voters and election officials in PUs and collation centres. The organisation also raised the alarm over activities of vote trading and vote suppression in the affected areas in the respective states. From the information received from our observers in the states, where rerun elections will hold, the two major political parties are busy sharing gift materials and money to prospective voters and some of the party officials, the report indicated. It said in Kano State, the practice was prevalence in Gama Ward in Nasarawa LGA. Gama ward is strategic to winning the rerun by the candidates of APC and PDP, adding that Its registered voters represent 31.8 per cent40,821) of the 128,324 total registered voters in places where the rerun will be held. This is even important bearing in mind that the total margin between both the APC and the PDP candidates was 26,000, votes from the ward is very significant. A few days ago, the incumbent government started construction of roads and Primary Healthcare Centre in the ward which opposition party has alleged as a form of voter inducement, the report further said. In Plateau State, CDD observed that one of the parties had deployed its voter buying brokers to trade between N6,000 and N7,000 for votes in Naraguta A and B and Tundunwada wards in Jos North LGA. It said this happened simultaneously in Jos South, and Shendam LGAs, while the other is reported to have finalised its plan to buy votes on Election Day. The APC and the PDP in Sokoto are wooing voters with gift items ahead of the supplementary governorship poll in the state, CDD reported. Though both parties have denied this. However, we received a report that potential voters have been approached with cash and gift items. The centre lamented that although vote-buying is punishable by the electoral law in the country and despite its prevalence in the country, hardly had any of its brokers faced the wrath of the law. Security operatives who have the mandate of securing votes should desist from creating an environment where vote buying thrives, it said. Vote buying brokers should be arrested and prosecuted in line with extant laws in the country to discourage the increasing rate of vote buying in elections. Media and privacy rights advocates have offered sharp criticism against President Muhammadu Buharis rejection of the Digital Rights and Freedom Bill, warning the action could portray Nigeria as a country lacking in crucial regulatory framework to protect citizens rights on the Internet. Mr Buhari in a veto message to the National Assembly on Wednesday said the bill covered too many technical subjects yet failed to address any of them extensively. The president said the bill could also prove problematic for current and future legislation around Internet freedom, which he acknowledged had a broadening debate around it. Mr Buhari consequently suggested that the scope of the bill should be limited to the protection of human right within the digital environment to reduce the challenge of duplication and legislative conflict in the future. Lawmakers did not immediately say chart a new course of action around the bill, but proponents have vowed to push on until it becomes a federal law. Media and privacy rights experts who played critical roles in drafting and championing of the disputed legislation contended that it essentially would have engendered better protection of citizens rights amidst an expanding modern communication. The International Press Centre (IPC) in Lagos disagreed with Mr Buharis grounds in a statement to PREMIUM TIMES, saying the bill clearly provides for the protection of human rights online. Lanre Arogundade, IPCs director, said the bill will protect Internet users from infringement of their fundamental freedoms and guarantee the application of human rights for digital platform users. The bill also seeks to guarantee human rights within the context of emerging innovative technologies, security concerns, increasing citizen participation in governance and democratic processes, Mr Arogundade said. The IPC said Mr Buhari should sign the bill as it is, because it holds the potential to revolutionise the state of digital rights in the country for the better and in a manner comparable to international standards. The Director of the IPC, Lanre Arogundade. [Photo credit: Guardian Nigeria] The Institute for Media and Society, IMS, urges President Muhammadu Buhari to reconsider his stance on the Digital Rights and Freedom Bill brought for his assent after its passage by the National Assembly. Concerns around Nigerians rights on the Internet have mounted in recent years, amidst rising cases of a government crackdown on citizens free speech and intrusion into Internet communication. Dozens of Nigerians, including journalists, bloggers and social commentators, have been arrested and their communication controversially intercepted since the adoption of the Cybercrime Act in 2015, which coincided with Mr Buharis assumption of office. Rights advocates regularly hold the government accountable for the infractions, which they see as a credible justification to push for a balanced legal mechanism that would ensure both citizens rights and national security are protected but not at the expense of one another. We are surprised that the president declined assent to this bill, a comprehensive and timely document which conforms to global trends and standards, said the Institute for Media and Society (IMS) in a statement. It is one document which preparation enjoyed the inputs of a wide diversity of stakeholders. Akin Akingbulu, IMS executive director, said the organisation found Mr Buharis reasons difficult to come to terms with. It is difficult to agree with the argument that a bill cannot receive presidential signature because it contains subjects addressed in other bills whose journeys in the legislative processing mill are uncertain, the statement said. The refusal of assent by Mr President will send negative signals to the international community on the governments attitude to freedom of expression and human rights in general as well as its approach to policy-making on issues which are central to building a democracy. We call on the National Assembly and other stakeholders to remain in support of this bill and engage further with the Presidency so that the bill will return to become law in the near future, the IMS said. Some journalists covering the supplementary governorship election in Kano State on Saturday escaped lynching by some suspected thugs at Suntulma Primary School in Gama ward of Nasarawa Local Government Area of the state. NAN reports that the journalists who were in the area to monitor the poll, were chased out of the place by the hoodlums. Trouble began when some of the newsmen tried to interview some voters who were denied access into the classrooms where some of the polling units were stationed. While trying to flee the troubled area, some of the journalists fell on ground and one of them had to take refuge in a nearby Mosque to save his life. NAN also reports that some of the reporters had their clothes torn by the thugs. Speaking to journalists, some voters alleged that they were not allowed to exercise their franchise as they were chased out of the area. One of them, Aminu Tijjani, said he went to the primary school to cast his vote at his polling unit but had to return to escape the hoodlums attack. The situation is very bad and this is not how to conduct an election where people or voters are denied the opportunity to vote, Mr Tijjani said. Another voter, Sani Abdullahi, said he came to vote as early as 8 a.m. but was scared away by the suspected thugs numbering about 10. Meanwhile, voting has commenced in other affected polling units across the 28 local government areas of the state. NAN reports that the re-run election is being conducted to decide the winner between two candidates Abba Kabir-Yusuf of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 1,014,477 votes, and incumbent Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who got 987,810 votes in the first poll conducted on March 9. The margin between the candidates stood at 26,655 votes in favour of Mr Kabir-Yusuf. (NAN) The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in Kano State has rejected the ongoing supplementary governorship election holding in 28 local government areas. Chairman of PDP in the state, Rabiu Bichi, who addressed journalists Saturday in Kano said the party rejects the election because it was characterised by violence and intimidation of voters. Mr Bichi said he had on Friday drawn attention of the Police command in the state accusing the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), of ferrying in armed thugs from neighbouring states. What is happening today is not election. Thugs have taken over most polling units and have been attacking our members and voters. Many have been injured, in fact, a member of the state Assembly representing Gwale, Yusuf Babangida on election duty was attacked and seriously injured. We also have reports of attack on our members in Doguwa, Gwale and Dala, we are collecting the whole list of those attacked, he said. The PDP chairman said the party would seek legal redress. We are going to pursue our right through legal means. Today is a sad day for Nigerian democracy, especially in Kano Recall that governorship elections were held on March 9 not just in Kano but Nigeria as a whole After the election, results from 43 out of 44 local governments were announced and we were leading, it was only the results from Nasarawa local government were pending and that was because the state deputy governor, the commissioner for local government and chairman of Nasarawa local government led some thugs to attack the collation centre and disrupt the process by tearing the result sheet That is why INEC called for this supplementary election. As you all know, the Nigerian constitution doesnt know anything supplementary election; all I know is that we have won our election. What is happening in Kano today is simply foolishness, he said. The police in Sokoto State have apologised after some officers at a polling unit in the state violently charged at a PREMIUM TIMES reporter while he was on election duty. Sokoto is one of the five states where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is holding supplementary elections this Saturday. Taiwo-Hassan Adebayo was amongst the journalists accredited to cover the election by INEC. He was monitoring the exercise shortly after polls opened in Magajin Garri Ward, Sokoto North Local Government Area. He was trying to access one of the polling units under the registration area when he was confronted by a police officer at about 9:30 a.m., Mr Adebayo said in a message to the office in Abuja. When I told him I was not a voter and showed my accreditation tag as a journalist, he still blocked me from passing, Mr Adebayo said. Upon insistence on my right to access, he attacked and broke my phone. Mr Adebayo said he warned the officer to respect his rights and stop acting illegally by denying him access to a polling area. But rather than allow sense to prevail, the officer became even more aggravated, and summon more of his colleagues to join in attacking the journalist. One of the police officers, who was holding a horsewhip, was called in to also attack Mr Adebayo, but persons nearby swiftly intervened and the matter was brought to an amicable end. Sadiq Muhammad, the police spokesperson in Sokoto, called Mr Adebayo to apologise for the incident. He also promised to ensure a thorough investigation that would likely lead to severe disciplinary actions against culpable officers. On behalf of the entire police structure, I sincerely apologise for this unfortunate and unwarranted attack by our men, Mr Muhammad sir. It will not be swept under the carpet, it will be thoroughly investigated and we are ready to punish the officers for their disgraceful and unprofessional conduct. Security agents have repeatedly attacked journalists and observers on election duty throughout this cycle, despite strident demand by INEC that accredited journalists should be allowed to a free movement and inspection during elections. During the first round of governorship elections on March 9, soldiers detained an accredited observer in Lagos after giving a ride to a fellow soldier. The observer sent hours in Nigerian Army detention at Ojoo Cantonment before he was released, a controversial act that added to widespread criticism of the military. But some of the attacks suffered by journalists and observers in this years elections are not linked to security agents. Earlier today in Kano, the News Agency of Nigeria reported that some journalists were attacked in Gama, Nasarawa Local Government Area, where supplementary election has been underway since 8:00 a.m. The news agency said political thugs were responsible for the attack, which the police have intervened to quell. On March 9, a PREMIUM TIMES reporter, Kunle Sanni, was abducted by thugs while taking pictures of underage voters at the polling unit of Governor Samuel Lalong. The reporter was summarily released after being threatened and the multimedia deleted from his devices. The attack on Mr Sanni and other similar acts of aggression against journalists by security agents and political thugs were condemned by the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists. There was jubilation across Osun State on Friday after the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal in Abuja declared Ademola Adeleke the winner of the elections held in September, 2018. The three-member panel at the tribunal, in a split judgment of two-to-one, declared the Peoples Democratic Partys candidate the winner of the September 2018 election. The tribunal, through the majority judgment, nullified the certificate of return issued to Adegboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and ordered the commission to issue a fresh one to Mr Adeleke. The tribunal, which had earlier dismissed the preliminary objection filed against the PDP and Mr Adelekes petition, stated that the petitioners failed to prove the allegations of over-voting in many polling units during the September 22, 2018 election. It also held that the petitioners complaints of corrupt practices and violent disruption of voting and disenfranchisement of voters during the September 27, 2018 run-off were not proved. But the tribunal, in its majority judgment, went ahead to uphold the petition on the grounds that the petitioners successfully proved that there was substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act 2010 in the conduct of the September 27, 2018 run-off in 17 polling units. Dissenting, the Chairman, Ibrahim Sirajo, in his minority judgment dismissed the petition filed by Mr Adeleke and the PDP for lacking in merit. But Peter Obiora, who read the lead majority judgment, and Ayinla Gbolagunte, who agreed, upheld the petition. The judgment lasted for about six hours. The majority judgment nullified the September 27, 2018 supplementary election after declaring it illegal and declared Mr Adeleke the winner of the poll based on the outcome of the September 22, 2018 election. Considering the valid results of the election, the tribunal deducted the votes polled by both the APC and the PDP in the 17 polling units across many local government areas where it held that the election was conducted in substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act. It deducted 2,029 afflicted votes polled by the APC in the 17 polling units from the partys total votes in the September 22, 2018 election, and deducted 1,246 from PDPs votes. According to the tribunal, the PDP won the election with 254,698 votes, while the APC placed second with 253,452 votes. Mr Obiora added that the PDP would still have won the poll even if the tribunal validated the supplementary election. He held that if the afflicted votes of 2,029 were deducted from the 255,505 votes polled by the APC at the end of the September 27, 2018 run-off, the party and its candidate would only have polled 253,476 votes. But according to Mr Obiora, the PDP would have won with 253,777 votes if the afflicted votes of 1,246 votes were deducted from the partys 255,023 votes at the end of the supplementary election. Mr Obiora said, By our earlier calculation, the votes affected by non-compliance are: APC: 2,029; PDP: 1,246 which we hereby nullify. If the above votes are deducted from the scores of the parties as of September 22, 2018 election, the standing of the parties will be as follows: APC: 254,345 votes, minus 2,029 votes equal 252,315 votes. PDP: 254,698 votes, minus 1,246 votes, equal to 253,452 votes. Perchance the rerun is found to be valid, and the final scores of the parties declared after the rerun of September 27, 2018 is allowed to stand, then deducting the votes that were found to be afflicted by non-compliance shall stand the parties in the following scores: APC: 255,505 votes, minus 2,029 votes, equal to 253,476 votes. PDP: 255,023 votes, minus the afflicted votes of non-compliance which is 1,246, will give us 253,777 votes. In both situations, it is obvious that the petitioners won the election to the office of the Governor of Osun State. The tribunal held that the election in 17 polling units was conducted in non-compliance with the Electoral Act by alleged deliberate failure of INEC to fill in eight columns on the result sheets and the number of accredited voters and give an account of usage of ballot papers. We are of the opinion that the non-recording was deliberate and tailored towards achieving an unwholesome result. The tribunal added that aside from the cases of non-compliance, Forms EC8A and the result sheets of polling units were discredited during the trial by virtue of alterations noticed on them. It said the figures on the certified true copies of the forms were different from what was on the pink duplicate copies issued to party agents at the end of the election. Commenting on the conduct of INEC, the tribunal stated, We note that a substantial number of the Certified True Copies of the Forms EC8A either have figures on them altered or have figures entered in them in Columns 1 8 thereof. The alterations in figures and fresh filling in the columns were not on the pink copies of the Forms EC8A distributed to the parties polling unit agents on the day of the election, which were tendered before this honourable tribunal. The obvious implication of this unfortunate development is that the first respondent went to work on the documents after the election, behind the parties. The first respondent (INEC) should realise that it holds an office of public trust and should at all times, strive to maintain the sanctity of the electoral practice. It added that the supplementary poll was illegal because it was a product of an unlawful cancellation of the September 22, 2018 election in seven polling units. It held that the Returning Officer unlawfully cancelled the September 22, 2018 governorship election in the state in seven polling units. It said the unlawful cancellation of the election in the seven polling units by the State Returning Officer informed the INECs decision to declare the results inconclusive and fixed September 27, 2018 for the supplementary election. Mr Obiora also noted that Mr Oyetolas lawyer, Wole Olanipekun, had argued that the tribunal could not nullify his clients certificate of return issued to him by INEC on the grounds that the said certificate was not tendered by the petitioners. But the tribunal held that an order of nullification of the said certificate of return is a mere formality as the foundation of the certificate of return issued to the second respondent has been eroded by the nullification of Mr Oyetolas election. Meanwhile, in his minority judgment, Justice Sirajo, held that the petitioners did not prove that election actually held in the seven polling units where results were cancelled. He added that the petitioners failed to prove who, in fact, cancelled the results. He, therefore, held that the supplementary election of September, 27, 2018 was lawful. According to Mr Sirajo, even if non-substantial compliance had affected the outcome of the election, the tribunal, by virtue of Section 140(2) of the Electoral Act, lacked the power to subtract the votes affected by the non-compliance from the scores of the candidates and announce a winner. The commandant in charge of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abuja, Solomon Iyamu, has appealed to his officers to see the police killing of their colleague as an act of God. The slain NSCDC officer, Ogar Jumbo, was beaten to death on Wednesday in Abuja in the presence of his wife and children by police officers who accused him of violating traffic regulations. Mr Jumbo was an assistant civil defence superintendent. Abuja police commissioner, Bala Ciroma, during a condolence visit to the Civil Defence office this week, said the police have accepted responsibility for the brutal killing of Mr Jumbo. Following the death of Ochigbo Jumbo Ogar (ASCI), an officer formerly serving at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, the commandant in charge of the command, Mr Iyamu, has appealed to his officers and men to take the incident as an act of God, despite the fact that the unjust killing was perpetrated by men of a sister agency, NSCDC said in a statement on the incident. The commandant, Mr Iyamu, is said to have made the appeal while addressing the NSCDC officers at his Wuse Zone 5, Office, Abuja, after receiving the police commissioner, Mr Ciroma. Mr Iyamu commended the police commissioner for his prompt response to the incident which resulted in both men visiting the Asokoro General Hospital to get first-hand information on the incident and the subsequent order for the detention of the police officers who were involved in it. Mr Iyamu told his officers that the leadership of both the police and the NSCDC were looking into the matter. There is no alternative to peace, Mr Iyamu told the officers. Therefore, all of you should continue to see the police as our partners in progress with the mindset for cooperation and synergy towards achieving our common national goal. The Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has ordered a speedy and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the police killing of an officer of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The slain NSCDC officer, Ogar Jumbo, was beaten to death on Wednesday in Abuja in the presence of his wife and children by police officers who accused him of violating traffic regulations. Mr Jumbo was an assistant civil defence superintendent. Abuja police commissioner, Bala Ciroma, during a condolence visit to the Civil Defence office this week, said the police have accepted responsibility for the brutal killing of Mr Jumbo. The IG, Mr Adamu, condoled with the family, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, friends and professional colleagues of the late civil defence officer, and assured them that everything humanly possible will be done to ensure that justice prevails in the case. Mr Adamus remark is contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the force spokesperson, Frank Mba. Mr Adamu asked the NSCDC and the family of the late officer to nominate a medical doctor of their choice to witness the autopsy at the appropriate time and venue. The IGP, therefore, calls for calm from the family and friends of the deceased and the entire public, reiterating that the case will not be swept under the carpet, the police statement said. The Emir of Akira-Uba in Borno State, Abdullahi Ibn-Muhammed, said he slept in tents when he returned home after the liberation of his kingdom from the control of Boko Haram insurgents. Recounting his ordeal, Mr Ibn-Muhammed, said he was voluntarily returned home and slept for several weeks in tents to build confidence and encourage his subjects to also return home. Mr Ibn-Muhammed said this on Saturday when Bulama Biu, a brigadier general and acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, Operation Lafiya Dole, paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Uba. He said when the insurgents sacked the town in 2014, his people ran for safety and became Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in various places. When the town was reclaimed by the military, I took courage to return back to my palace along with the members of my traditional institution. We returned and saw that most of the structures were razed. They burnt my palace; some of the structures that remain standing are the brick fireplaces of homes. Despite all these challenges, we came back and stayed. Some of us were taking shelter in makeshift tents. I slept in my burnt palace. And sometimes when it rained, we have to put ourselves together in one place and cover ourselves, he said. The monarch commended the efforts and sacrifices of the military in safeguarding the peace, security and territorial integrity of the country. It is because of the commitment you have given towards ending the lingering crisis of Boko Haram that we are enjoying relative peace in our community. We in Askira will always thank you for making it possible for us to come back home. It is a well-known fact that fighting insurgency is a difficult task. It is very difficult because you dont always know where the next attack will come from but the army has done tremendously well and lived to the expectation. War cannot be completely won within the short period of time. It requires continuous efforts of mobilisation, fighting, sensistisation, enlightenment and support from all stakeholders. The government needed to continue educating them (insurgents) to drop their arms, embrace peace as well as meaningful reintegration. Those taking arms should understand that they cannot fight the government. The emir lamented that the terrorists had inflicted unprecedented damage to peoples lives and property under the guise of Islam, noting that going by their actions, they have nothing to do with the religion they claimed to be fighting for. The group has nothing to do with Islam because most of their victims are Muslims. The Muslims are the worst affected population of this war. They kill both Muslims and Christians. I therefore want to assure you that we will continue to do our best to support you to succeed. To me, I have that vision of what the army required, he said. Mr Ibn-Muhammed further appealed to the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, to establish and deploy a permanent battalion in Askira-Uba to enhance more security for his people. Mr Biu said he was at the palace to pay homage to the monarch as well as thank him for all the support and cooperation he had been providing to the troops of 28 Task Force Brigade. He said he was on operational trip as part of the effort to boost morale of the fighting troops and to interact with them on some of their concerns. We are in Konduga, Kawuri, Bama, Gwoza, Pulka, Madagali, Michika where we sympathised with the people on the March 14 incident and now we are here. We will be going to Chibok, the Headquarters of the brigade and Damboa all in an effort to support our fighting troops, he said. The GOC said that the recent attacks, which were mostly repelled, amounted to a kick of the dying horse, noting that the Nigerian Army was committed to ensuring lasting peace and sanity in the entire northeast. I will forward the request you made to the Chief of Army Staff for his consideration, he said. (NAN) The supplementary elections being organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 36 polling units across 15 local governments of Bauchi State has so far witnessed large turnout of voters. In some of the polling units visited by our reporter, voters arrived the polling units as early as 7.30 a.m. Polling officials who arrived their respective stations commmenced voting processes as early as 8 a.m. Unlike the previous elections held two weeks ago, the voters turnout was impressive. Most of the polling be units were surrounded by armed police, civil defence and SSS operatives. At Kagadama polling Unit 004 in Dott ward of Dass local government, the electoral officials said they had no issue with their card readers, a reason they cited for the fast accreditation and voting process. Some of the voters on queue informed PREMIUM TIMES that they came out as early as 7a.m. to cast their votes. Many of them said they decided to defy the scorching sun to exercise their franchise. This supplementary elections gave us a rare opportunity to reaffirm our position after some persons robbed us of our ballots, said Hannatu Usman, a resident of Dott village. So we have mobilised ourselves this time around to tell the world that no one can trample on our freewill. This large turnout is a manifestation of our commitment to ensure change in Dass local government and especially, Kagadama polling unit. Observers Commend Security Local observers at the Kagadama polling unit 004 commended security agencies for ensuring a peaceful conduct of the supplementary polls. Suleiman Hassan, a domestic observer, said We were all amazed when we came out here to meet a large turnout of men and women all on queue even before the exercise commenced. The turnout surpassed those of presidential and main governorship elections held weeks ago. It was very orderly and the security have been impressive. Even when some politicians wanted to undermine the process at about 9.30am, the police and SSS were up to their game by effectively controlling the situation and chasing those trying to invade the centre away. There are 872 registered voters in Kagadama polling unit, and going by the turn out, more than 50 percent of the voters had turned out. Dass LG chairman chased out of polling unit The caretaker chairman of Dass local government council, Ado Maigoro, was chased out of the Kagadama polling centre by angry voters as he attempted to invade the voting arena with a large number of persons believed to be political thugs. Mr. Maigoro, a staunch loyalist of the Bauchi state Governor, Muhammed Abubakar, arrived the polling unit alongside some vehicles filled with suspected political thugs. His presence angered the voters who began to protest against his arrival. The situation was almost going out of hand until the security personnel managed to put it under control by ordering him and his crew to leave at once. The local government chairman came with the thugs who are not accredited voters in this polling unit. We dont know them and we immediately insisted they leave. Thank God the police helped us to usher them out, said Hassan, one of the domestic observers. Efforts to get Mr. Maigoro to explain why he was at the polling unit with suspected political thugs was not fruitful, as he hurriedly left the voting centre. Voters in Mallar polling unit of Bogoro LGA refuse to leave after casting their ballots It was also a large voter turnout in Mallar polling unit of Bogoro Local Government area of Bauchi state. Bogoro is the home local government area of the Speaker of House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara. A stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), most of the voters in Mallar, about 85km away from Bauchi, hung around after casting their votes. Electoral officials were seen idling away as most of the voters who sat down in camps under shade of trees after casting their ballots, had all cast their voted as at 12.45pm. We are waiting to hear the results of our votes and no one moved until that is done, said Monday Yusuf. As Plateau records large voter turnout in the Saturdays supplementary elections, crowd control has become a huge challenge in some polling units. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that places like Mangu and Barikin Ladi have recorded serious challenges in crowd control. We did have the challenge of crowd control at Barikin Choji polling unit but thanks to the security operatives who have helped us at controlling it. Things are moving smoothly and peacefully now, Dickson Chollom, a council chairman said. Mr Chollom described the supplementary as very worthy step towards determining the right person that would govern Plateau. Also, Okoro Godwin, an observer with Youth Initiative for Sustainable Human Development in Africa, said: the large turnout is beyond our expectation compared to what we saw on March 9. What we have seen so far in Mangu, Bokkos and Barikin Ladi LGAs is very huge turnout. The crowd control problem at Barikin Choji polling unit in Barikin Ladi LGA is said to be as a result of some intruders. I was happy when the security personnel quickly intervened and brought the situation under control. Its good that there is no sign of apathy, Mr Godwin said. NAN reports that voting began in earnest in most of the polling units, especially at Angwan Hausawa, Chichim, Ranpiya and Madaki I polling units in Mangu ward I and Barikin Choji polling unit in B/Ladi. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that places like Mangu and Barikin Ladi have recorded serious challenges in crowd control. We did have the challenge of crowd control at Barikin Choji polling unit but thanks to the security operatives who have helped us at controlling it. Things are moving smoothly and peacefully now, Dickson Chollom, a council chairman said. Mr Chollom described the supplementary as very worthy step towards determining the right person that would govern Plateau. Also, Okoro Godwin, an observer with Youth Initiative for Sustainable Human Development in Africa, said: the large turnout is beyond our expectation compared to what we saw on March 9. What we have seen so far in Mangu, Bokkos and Barikin Ladi LGAs is very huge turnout. The crowd control problem at Barikin Choji polling unit in Barikin Ladi LGA is said to be as a result of some intruders. I was happy when the security personnel quickly intervened and brought the situation under control. Its good that there is no sign of apathy, Mr Godwin said. NAN reports that voting began in earnest in most of the polling units, especially at Angwan Hausawa, Chichim, Ranpiya and Madaki I polling units in Mangu ward I and Barikin Choji polling unit in B/Ladi. Armed thugs were seen in many polling units visited on Saturday morning during the supplementary governorship election in Kano State. Many voters and supporters of a political party claimed the thugs were there to intimidate them from voting. A PREMIUM TIMES reporter who observed the elections witnessed the presence of the thugs with various weapons such as sticks and knives around some of the polling units visited in Rimin Gado Local Government Area and other parts of Kano. High presence of political thugs with heavy weapons is observed in all the polling units visited so far. However, they stay a distance away from the polling units, said Sani Tukur, a journalist observing the elections. When Mr Tukur and other journalists arrived Rimin Gado, they were confronted by residents who alleged that no election is going on anywhere because all the ballot papers have been pre-thumb printed. Also, a member of the House of Representatives for Gwale constituency, Garba Disu, arrived the Divisional Police Station in Rimin Gado and complained that all the ballot papers have been thumb printed. However, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Zamfara state, Asmau Sani, who is one of three RECs deployed to Kano to help in the conduct of the elections, said everything was going on normally. She spoke in an interview with journalists at Atawa village of Rimin Gado Local Government Area. So far so good, everything is going on smoothly, she said. Before the journalists left Rimin Gado, they observed that the thugs had moved away from the polling booths but were still seen within the voting area, a situation that could intimidate many voters. In Rimin Gado local government, elections are taking place in Attawa, Tammawa, Dika, Gulu, Rimin Gado and Jilli. Apart from Kano State, supplementary governorship elections are also holding in Sokoto, Benue, Bauchi, and Plateau states. Police officers on election duty Saturday arrested Kano State Commissioner for Special Duties, Muktar Yakasai. Mr Yakasai allegedly led some thugs to disrupt ongoing election at Yelwa Secondary School in Dala Local Government Area of the state.. Spokesperson of the Police in the state, Abdullahi Haruna could not be reached but witnesses said Mr Yakasai was arrested alongside some of the thugs he came to the venue with. Also, some witnesses said violence has broken out again in Gama ward and the police were forced to fire tear gas to disperse youth who were becoming agitated. Journalists were earlier chased away by thugs from the area with two being injured. The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Board on Saturday flagged off the Hajj Enlightenment exercise for intending pilgrims across the 23 Local Government Areas of the state. The Director General, Bureau for Religious Affairs, Kaduna State, Namadi Musa, while flagging off the exercise urged the intending pilgrims to give thanks to Allah for chosen them among his guest in 2019. He urged the intending pilgrims to be patient because hajj is a rigorous exercise that requires patience through out the period. From the day you pay for hajj seat you should imbibe the culture of patience. You must have an extra patience to achieve hajj mabrur ( acceptable hajj). I, therefore, on behalf of the state governor, Nasir El- Rufai, flag off this enlightenment program. Our prayers is to achieve a successful hajj, he said. Mr Mamadi also said the baord major challenge are the old timer pilgrims who always mislead the new timer pilgrims. The Board Overseer, Hussaini Sulaiman Tsoho Ikara, while addressing the intending pilgrims charged them to be good ambassadors of the country while in Soudi Arabia. He said the enlightenment exercise is compulsory as only intending pilgrims that have 75 per cent attendance will be allowed to travel. Mr Tsoho said the board had given priority to the sensitisation and enlightenment lectures due to its importance. In his remarks Director of Operations in the board, Sani Dalhatu, said the biometris exercise for intending Pilgrims for this year too is compulsory just as e urged them to be prepared for it. The Kano State Commissioner of Information, Muhammad Garba, has debunked reports that the police have arrested a serving commissioner in the state during Saturdays re-run elections. Mr Garba, a former president of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, also described the reported loss of life due to violence in some polling units as white lies. Witnesses had earlier told journalists that the Commissioner for Special Duties, Muktar Yakasai, was arrested after he allegedly led some thugs to disrupt election at Yelwa Secondary School in Dala Local government area. Also, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had alleged that some of its agents were killed and others injured in various locations in the state. Mr Garba, in a statement, said these negative, false and disturbing reports are nothing but propaganda of the Kwankwasiyya movement of PDP designed and perpetrated to discredit the conduct of the re-run elections in the affected areas as they sense clear defeat. He said the elections were conducted peacefully and smoothly, adding that there was and will not be any infringement of law or wrongdoing from the government side as alleged and mischievously spread by the PDP. The information commissioner, therefore, called on Kano people to disregard these fake news and propaganda and remain calm as the collation of results continues. A coalition has commended the conduct of Saturdays governorship re-run election in Kano State. The observers, numbering 18, addressed the press via a statement read by Chinyere Manukwem, the leader of Global Initiative for Civic Training and Youth Development. Speaking under the aegis of the Coalition of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Accredited Observers for Kano State Supplementary Election, the group commended the electoral umpire for their immeasurable contributions to the success recorded during the just concluded Kano State governorship supplementary election. Ms Manukwem said the distribution of both sensitive and non-sensitive election materials, was done in record time. She said having observed the entire electoral process, her coalition could say there was total adherence to the restriction of both vehicular and commercial activities. She also said in most of the polling units visited, election commenced early enough. There was a massive turn out of voters largely women and there was a heavy presence of security personnel in all the polling units visited. Most of the political parties agents that participated in the election were present at the polling units, she said She also said in most of the polling units visited by the observers, the election was relatively peaceful but for Dala Local Government and Gama in Nasarawa Local Government where the election was disrupted by hoodlums in snatching ballot boxes. The group commended the security agents for their quick response in calming the situation. The observers also commended the media for adequate coverage and reportage of the electoral process. Ms Manukwem said the observers would also like to recommend to all involved in Kano to henceforth educate their electorates on the need for a free and fair election as an election is not a do or die affair. They also commended the voters for coming out en masse to carry out their civic responsibility. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun the collation of results of the supplementary governorship election in Kano State. The collation is holding at the headquarters of INEC in Kano. Already collation officers from some local governments have made their submissions. Results from PU 09 in Gezawa local government shows that the APC scored 167 votes while the PDP scored 27. Also, in Kura local government, APC scored 807 and PDP polled 528. However, APC scored the entire 360 accredited votes from a polling unit in Dawakin Kudu local government. PDP scored 0. Meanwhile, agents of PDP at the collation centre, kept complaining to INEC to address the issue of violence that marred the election. The INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Shehu Riskuwa, said the commission has taken note of their complaints and will address them. Follow our live updates here: A magistrate court in Akwa Ibom on Thursday struck out a criminal defamation charge against a journalist in the state. The journalist, Nsibiet John, was arrested on January 5, 2017, in Uyo and arraigned before a senior magistrate for publishing a story alleging that the deputy governor of Akwa Ibom, Moses Ekpo, pockets N250 million monthly as security votes from the state government. Mr John doubles as the publisher and the editor-in-chief of The Ink, a local newspaper in the state. Mr Johns lawyer, Ekemini Udim, confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES that the charge against the journalist has been struck out. When the matter came up, counsel for the state was not in court. He has been repeatedly absent from court since October last year, and the complainant, that is the deputy governor, was not also in court, Mr Udim told PREMIUM TIMES. The law requires that the complainant must be in court, the prosecution must also be in court. So, when it turned out that none of them was in court today, I had to cite the provision of the law and asked the magistrate to strike out the charge in view of the circumstances. The magistrate agreed with the position of the law and then struck out the charge, the lawyer said. Immediately the case against him was struck out, Mr John took to Facebook to say thank you to the people who stood by him during the trial. The journalist said Michael Bush, a popular broadcaster in the state, helped in bringing about a truce between him and the deputy governor, Mr Ekpo. He said he has learnt every lesson needed to be learnt. The police in Lagos have said that an officer who was responsible for the death of a senior secondary school 1 student in the Ikorodu area would be charged with professional misconduct. Adijat Shakiru, the deceased teenager, was killed by a stray bullet at Adama community during the operation of the cultists, the police said in a statement by its spokesperson, Bala Elkana. The statement said Mudi Emmanuel, a police sergeant who was together with four other officers of the surveillance patrol team in the community, is guilty of misuse of firearms. Due to professional misconduct, he is to face trial at the Commands Provost Marshall Unit, the statement said. His actions fell short of the Rules of Engagement for the Use of Firearms and Professional Standards for Police Officers. He will be charged to Court for murder. Mr Elkana also said the police officer who was severely injured after he was attacked with cutlasses and broken bottles by suspected cultists at Mile 12 has died Damilola Adeoye, a police sergeant, died on March 21, a day after he was attacked during an enforcement operation with the Lagos State Task Force on environmental sanitation and special offences. The police said in addition to the existing charges of the seven suspects arrested over the incident, they would also be charged with murder. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ibeju-Lekki State Constituency I, Fatai Mojeed, winner of the supplementary election in the area. INEC conducted supplementary election in nine polling units of the state constituency on Saturday. The commission had declared the March 9 election in the constituency inconclusive, because of over-voting in the nine polling units, covering two Registration Areas (Ward). Rasheed Ojikutu, a professor and the Returning Officer for the election, announced the result for the election at the Collation Centre located in INEC office in Ibeju-Lekki council at about 6:30 p.m. Mr Ojikutu, of the Department of Actuarial Science and Insurance, Faculty of Business Administration, University of Lagos, first read out scores of each political party on March 9 election, before announcing the total votes in the supplementary poll. According to him, on March 9 election, APC polled 8,525 votes and PDP scored 1, 786, SDP got 63, ADP scored 54 votes, Accord got 50 votes, AD polled 59 votes while other political parties scored less than 40 votes each. He said Mr Mojeed polled a total of votes 9,484 to defeat his closest rival from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Tare Oliver who got 1,901 votes. I, Prof. Rasheed Kola Ojikutu, hereby certify that I am the returning officer for the constituency I of Ibeju-Lekki in the election held on the 23rd Day of March 2019. I declare that Mojeed Fatai Adebola of APC, haven satisfied the requirements of the law and scored the highest number of votes is hereby declared the winner and he is returned elected, Mr Ojikutu said. He added that Accord Party scored 51 votes, AD polled 60 votes, ADC polled 26 votes, SDP got 64 votes, AAC polled 27 votes, ADP got only 55 votes while others got less than 10 votes each. Mr Ojikutu said the total registered voters were 122, 442, while the total accredited voters for the election were 12,245. The party agents took turns to sign the results. Earlier, Adeola Afonja, the Collation Officer for Ibeju Ward I, reeled out the scores obtained by each of the parties in the six polling units where supplementary election was held in the ward. According to Mrs Afonja, APC polled 520, PDP scored 43 votes, ADC got 2 votes, Accord and ADP got one vote each while other parties got no vote. She said the total registered votes of the six polling units where the supplementary election took place were 3,989. Mrs Afonja added that the total accredited voters were 592, total valid votes were 567, rejected votes 22, while the total votes cast were 589. Also, Ijeoma Patience, the Collation Officer for Iwerekun I, reeled out the scores obtained by each of the parties in the three polling units where supplementary election was held in the ward. According to her, APC polled 439, PDP scored 72 votes, while other parties got less than 2 votes. Patience said the registered voters of the three polling units where the supplementary election took place were 8,722 She added that the total accredited voters were 529, total valid votes 521, rejected votes were 8, while the total vote cast were 529. NAN reports that out of 12, 711 registered voters in the nine polling units, only 1,118 voters came out to vote in the supplementary election. Speaking to NAN, Wasiu Elemoro, candidate of PDP for Ibeju-Lekki Federal Constituency described the election as being far better than the previous polls. Mr Elemoro said the supplementary election was free, fair and peaceful. Also speaking, Rasak Alatishe, the APC party agent at the collation centre, commended the peaceful conduct of the voters, expressing satisfaction with the outcome, which Femi Asia, his counterpart from the PDP corroborated. After being declared winner, Mr Mojeed, who could not hide his joy, thanked the people for the trust reposed in him and promised not to disappoint them. (NAN) 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. WADSWORTH, Ohio, March 22, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Cornwell Quality Tools was recently ranked in Entrepreneur magazine's Fastest-Growing Franchises list. This highly competitive list recognizes the 150 companies with the greatest franchise unit growth in North America, based on data submitted for Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 ranking. Thanks to its exceptional growth, Cornwell Quality Tools was ranked #67. "This is an exciting time to join the Cornwell family," said Bob Studenic, Cornwell Quality Tools President and CEO. "We've been growing steadily and firing on all cylinders the past several years. We have a strong business model that supports and backs the dealers. It shows in how we treat and care for dealers. This has brought a lot of attention to Cornwell Quality Tools and has sparked a significant amount of interest about the company from potential franchise owners," said Studenic. "Franchising trends are always changing, and our ranking of the fastest-growing franchises offers crisp insight into what's hot right now," says Jason Feifer, Entrepreneur's editor in chief. "And through this list, we're also able to see the strategies that help newer brands ramp up quickly and that enable older ones to maintain their momentum." Entrepreneur's 2019 Fastest-Growing Franchises ranking is based on each company's net franchise-unit growth in the U.S. and Canada from July 31, 2017, to July 31, 2018, with ties broken based on percentage growth. Cornwell Quality Tools position on the ranking demonstrates the brand's rising popularity with both franchisees and customers. To view Cornwell Quality Tools ranking, visit https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/fastestgrowing. Results can also be seen in the March issue of Entrepreneur, available now on newsstands. About Cornwell Quality Tools: Headquartered in Wadsworth, Ohio, Cornwell Quality Tools is the oldest mobile tool company with a market presence since 1919. A family and employee-owned company, Cornwell is committed to the pride that accompanies the sale of quality materials. With the use of high-grade alloy steel, combined with modern heat-treating methods, Cornwell has continued to produce the finest tools in the world, that have truly been "The Choice of Professionals" for 100 years. Products are sold via 650+ mobile tool dealers across the country. Cornwell has two state-of-the-art distribution centers located in Clearfield, Utah and Wadsworth, Ohio, along with three manufacturing facilities located in Albion, Pennsylvania (Forging Operation), Mogadore, Ohio (Hand Tool Manufacturing), and Van Wert, Ohio (Tool Storage Manufacturing). For more information, please visit www.cornwelltools.com. Or for Franchise information http://franchise.cornwelltools.com. Follow us on social media: Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/CornwellQualityTools or Twitter @CornwellTools. Contact: Anne Elshaw Publications Manager, Cornwell Quality Tools 1-800-321-8356 [email protected] Related Images image1.jpg SOURCE Cornwell Quality Tools Related Links http://www.cornwelltools.com WESTMINSTER, Colo., March 22, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- DSE Digital Signage Expo The Kiosk Manufacturer Association is happy to announce that several of its sponsors will be exhibiting next week at DSE 2019. 191 companies in total will be represented. What began as a digital signage tradeshow seems to be evolving to a large format interactive informational kiosk tradeshow. Sponsors exhibiting include Peerless-AV, 22Miles, Optconnect, Zivelo, MimoMonitors and LG-MRI. Kiosk Manufacturer Association (KMA) Craig Keefner of KMA notes, "Touch is still the key for establishing ROI and digital signage is evolving to interactive. Device interaction currently is mobile phones but that will widen as well in scope." KMA has a preview article with links and next week pictures and comments from the exhibiting sponsors will be added. KMA would like to thank Peerless-AV for the mini lighted display signage they sent US Mail prior to the show. And thanks to LG-MRI. NRF 2019 So what do Walmart, Amazon, Schwarz Group, Carrefour, Costco and Aldi have in common? They attended NRF 2019 and are some of the Top 10 Global Retailers in the world. Companies such as YUM Foods, Tommy Hilfiger, Whole Foods, Apple, T-Mobile and the New York Mets are companies that attended NRF and met with KMA at our booth. KMA has formed a retail advisory group to help solicit opinions and thoughts on Accessibility and ADA which KMA can use with the entire ADA & Accessibility committee and later the U.S. Access Board during their meeting later this year. KMA will exhibit again next year at NRF 2020. If you are a retailer or deployer and are willing to be surveyed from time to time please contact [email protected] and there is no charge for participating. The current group comprises 40 participants. KMA is committed to public outreach via all mechanisms including tradeshows such as NRF. KMA is a member of NRF. In Other New - Features To Contact KMA: Craig Keefner - [email protected] - 720.324.1837 Related Images image1.jpg Related Links Kiosk Industry KMA Related Video https://vimeo.com/306082517 SOURCE Kiosk Manufacturer Association (KMA) NEW ORLEANS, La., March 22, 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 Swedbank AB (OTC: SWDBY). On February 20, 2019, a Swedish television investigative program reported that it had uncovered documents linking the Company to a money laundering scandal with Denmark's Danske Bank involving 40 billion kronor ($4.3 billion) in suspicious transfers between 2007 and 2015. The next day, financial regulators from Sweden and Estonia announced a joint investigation into the matter. On this news, the price of Swedbank's shares plummeted. KSF's investigation is focusing on whether Swedbank and/or its officers and directors violated state or federal securities laws. If you are a Swedbank shareholder and have suffered losses, 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/otc-swdby/ 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 Washington, March 23 : US special counsel Robert Mueller has submitted a confidential report to Attorney General William Barr, marking the end of his nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, media reported. According to The Washington Post, the Justice Department notified Congress late Friday that it had received Mueller's report but did not describe its contents. No details of Mueller's findings have been released. It is not clear how soon they will be made public. Barr reportedly said he could brief Congress as early as this weekend about the findings, Xinhua news agency reported on Friday. The Mueller-led inquiry focused on possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow during the 2016 presidential election and whether the president obstructed justice. The White House said in a statement on Friday that it has not received or been briefed on the special counsel's report. "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course," the statement added. Mueller, who was appointed by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein in May 2017, is required to submit a report to Barr at the conclusion of his investigation. Barr, in turn, is required to notify Congress about Mueller's findings. According to special counsel regulations, the report must explain Mueller's "prosecution or declination decisions." Barr has said he will write his own report summarizing Mueller's findings. The probe, which has shadowed Trump's presidency, has led to felony charges against 34 people, including six Trump associates, and three companies. Trump has repeatedly dismissed any collusion between his campaign and Moscow, while slamming the wide-ranging inquiry as a "hoax" or "witch hunt." Russia has denied any meddling in the 2016 presidential election. Hyderabad, March 23 : Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, the Congress party candidate from Telangana's Chevella Lok Sabha constituency, has declared family assets worth Rs 895 crore, making him the richest politician in both the Telugu states. Vishweshwar Reddy owns movable assets of Rs 223 crore, while the movable assets of his wife K. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals stood at Rs 613 crore. The movable assets of their dependent son were nearly Rs 20 crore. However, none of the family members own a car or any other motor vehicle. Vishweshwar Reddy also has immovable assets of Rs 36 crore while the same of his wife are valued at Rs 1.81 crore. The engineer-turned-politician submitted an affidavit declaring his and family assets while filing nomination on Friday. In 2014, he declared family assets of over Rs 528 crore. He had then contested and won as a Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) candidate. He joined the Congress on the eve of the Assembly elections last December. Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Minister P. Narayana, who owns the Narayana Group of institutions, also declared family assets of Rs 667 crore on Friday while filing nomination for the state Assembly from Nellore constituency. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu declared family assets worth Rs 574 crore while YSR Congress Party chief Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy and his wife own assets worth Rs 538 crore. Wellington, March 23 : New Zealand has banned the possession and distribution of a manifesto believed to be written by the lone gunman who carried out the March 15 Christchurch mosques carnage where 50 people were killed, officials said on Saturday. The Office of Film and Literature Classification announced that the document is objectionable under the law, reports CNN. The so-called "manifesto" of Brenton Tarrant, the 28-year-old Australian charged with the massacre, spans more than 80 pages and is filled with anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim rants. "There is an important distinction to be made between 'hate speech,' which may be rejected by many right-thinking people, but which is legal to express, and this type of publication, which is deliberately constructed to inspire further murder and terrorism," said New Zealand's Chief Censor David Shanks. "It crosses the line." The document was posted on social media and was sent to the office of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern just before the shooting began. On Thursday, Shanks called on the public to delete any copies, as well as online posts or links to the document. People can also report any social media posts, links or websites. "New Zealanders can all play a part in denying those who exhort hatred, killing and terror," Shanks said. "Do not support the murderous objectives of its author by republishing or distributing it." Earlier this week, authorities banned footage of the fatal shootings, including edited clips and still images. Reykjavik, March 23 : Authorities in Iceland has temporarily closed the canyon of Fjaorargljufur, a popular tourist attraction, due to environmental damage caused by an ever-increasing number of visitors, the media reported. Located in southern Iceland about 70 km from Vik, the canyon will be closed until June, despite the early summer start of the country's high tourism season, CNN quoted the Environmental Agency of Iceland as saying on Friday. The canyon was also briefly closed for weather-related maintenance in 2018. While Iceland has many gorgeous natural formations throughout the country, the 100-meter-deep Fjaorargljufur has become very popular for several reasons. Its tall, slender canyon walls are sheer, creating a beautiful effect that photographers love. Inga Hlin Palsdottir, director of the national tourism agency Visit Iceland, told CNN that it was not not fair to blame over-tourism for Fjaorargljufur's closure. "It's just a natural wonder that wasn't meant to be that popular," she said. "We need to build a better infrastructure there so we can invite people all year round. We need paths that can be discovered all year round. It's not only because of nature, it's a safety issue." Iceland's popularity as a tourism destination has skyrocketed in the past decade. Nearly 2.2 million people visited the country in 2017, according to the Icelandic Tourist Board, a figure which was way more that the number of people -- just 350,000 -- who actually live in Iceland. Islamabad, March 23 : The 79th Pakistan Day was celebrated across the country on Saturday with traditional zeal and fervour. The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad while provincial capitals marked the celebration with 21-gun salutes. The change-of-guards ceremony was held at the mausoleum of poet and politician, Allama Iqbal, in Lahore, Dawn news reported. Pakistan Air Force troops took over guard duty at Iqbal's mausoleum where Air Commodore Rizwan Malik was the chief guest. The Pakistan Day military parade will be held at Parade Ground near the Shakarparian hills in Islamabad to mark the day. The parade will be attended by the civil and military leadership as well as foreign dignitaries. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who arrived on a three-day visit to Pakistan on Thursday, will also attend as the guest of honour. According to Radio Pakistan, an award ceremony will also be held at the President House in the evening, where about 171 people, including civilians and foreign citizens will be awarded for achievements in various fields including science and technology, by President Arif Alvi. Prime Minister Imran Khan and President Alvi, in separate messages , stressed the "need to achieve the goal of true Islamic welfare state as envisaged by Muhammad Ali Jinnah". Khan said the government was determined to establish a society where every person can contribute towards socio-economic development to the best of his ability. President Alvi said that Pakistan has overcome the challenges of extremism and terrorism but acknowledged the country was yet to make efforts for excelling on social and economic fronts. Pakistan Day commemorates the passing of the Lahore Resolution on March 23, 1940, when the All-India Muslim League demanded a separate nation for the Muslims of the British Indian Empire. New York, March 23 : Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who delved into the murky depths of the 2016 election looking for links between President Donald Trump's campaign and Russia, has completed his probe and a tense nation awaits his findings that will profoundly affect the future of US politics. Mueller submitted his report on Friday evening to Attorney General William Barr, who wrote to Congressional leaders that he may share its key findings this weekend. He has the prerogative to keep parts of it secret, but the House of Representatives with near unanimity, called for it to be released in full, and Trump has backed it. Even before Mueller completed his inquiry, the probe's tentacles reached deep into Trump's inner circle and led to the conviction of five important members, including former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, his personal lawyer Michael Cohen and former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn on various charges, like lying during investigations and others that were collateral like tax and financial fraud unrelated to the Russian link. After the 2016 election vaulted Trump, an outsider to traditional politics, into the presidency after his unconventional and divisive campaign defeated Hillary Clinton, the Democrats saw the hand of Russia and demanded the probe that coloured US politics for nearly two years. Whether the report produced after 22 months of investigations connects Trump personally to the Russian interference or not, either way it will impact US politics in the short as well as in the long term. And the odds appear to be that it does not signal a criminal, direct Trump-Russia connection because senior Justice Department officials in background briefings to US media said on Friday night that Mueller has not recommended any more prosecutions beyond those that have been launched. Republican Senator Steve Scalise declared that this confirmed that "there was never any collusion with Russia". Trump, who has kept a steady Twitter fire denouncing Mueller's probe as a "witchhunt", can claim vindication and continue in office. But his adversaries are not convinced and the most saw the Mueller probe as the ultimate weapon to drive Trump out of the office. If there is even the slightest hint that Trump willingly collaborated with the Russians or condoned his campaign's links with them, the "I-Word" - impeachment - looms. Whatever the report reveals, Representative Rashida Tlaib has said she will introduce an impeachment resolution while Representative Brad Sherman has already framed the charges for it. But the Democrat leadership and others were wary of such a course because of its impact on the deeply - and dangerously - divided nation. According to a RealClearPolitics aggregation of recent opinion polls, Trump has an approval rating of 42.5 per cent, with one poll by USA Today showing 48 per cent. James Comey, the former Federal Bureau of Investigation who was dismissed by Trump, said that he considered the latter as "morally unfit to be president", but warned in a New York Times op-ed against an impeachment. "If Mr. Trump were removed from office by Congress, a significant portion of this country would see this as a coup, and it would drive those people farther from the common centre of American life, more deeply fracturing our country," he wrote. Impeaching Trump is "just not worth it", Speaker Nancy Pelosi told the Washington Post earlier this month. "Impeachment is so divisive to the country that unless there's something so compelling and overwhelming and bipartisan, I don't think we should go down that path, because it divides the country." Congressional Democrat Hakeem Jeffries said that the vast majority of his party Representatives want to "proceed with caution". But Trump's opposition in the Democratic Party and also among Republicans will seek to find enough ammunition to step up attacks on his fitness for office and his credibility. Whatever the report may say, a "Plan B" is already in operation with several investigations handed off by Mueller to federal prosecutors. Their counterparts in Democratic-controlled states are also targeting Trump associates under state laws and the Mueller findings might give them the ammunition to go after them, and possibly the president himself. According to some reports, New York City prosecutors may take a look at Trump family members. The Democratic Party-controlled House is also ready to launch several investigations against Trump and his inner circle. It is widely accepted that Russians had a hand in leaking to WikiLeaks internal emails of Democrats that exposed internal manipulations that cast them in a negative light and caused divisions within the party ranks that helped Trump. Russians trolls, whether operating on behalf of President Vladimir Putin or financed by others, used social media to boost Trump in innovative ways -- not just through outright propaganda, but by sharpening existing ideological, racial, economic and social divisions to either suppress or increase participation by voter segments. Many Russians have been charged in connection with those campaigns. One of them, lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya, is charged with money laundering and she is alleged to have met Manafort, Donald Trump Jr., and Jared Kushner in New York's Trump Tower in June 2016 offering dirt on Clinton. The picture has been muddied by Trump's real estate company's negotiations with Russians that continued during his campaign and they may lead to further investigations about them. His lawyer Cohen admitted in a federal court that he was guilty of lying when he told Congress that the discussions had ended in January 2016 when they continued through June. The Mueller investigation has been controversial from the start. In May 2017, then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who had been a member of the Trump campaign, recused himself and handed off the issue to his deputy, Rod Rosenstein, who appointed Mueller. Mueller had previously served as the FBI Director under both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama and as assistant attorney general under Presidents George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Trump railed against Sessions for not taking charge of the probe and later dismissed him. Trump also fired Comey, who had been involved in the early Russia probe, reportedly because he would not drop investigations of Flynn. These could be construed as grounds for Congressional investigations of charges of obstruction of justice by Trump, which would be a criminal offence. (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed on Twitter @arulouis) Srinagar, March 23 : Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday hoped that there was equal condemnation against rights violations by militants in the state as when the security forces are accused of it. His remark comes a day after a 12-year-old boy, who was taken hostage, was killed in a gunfight in Bandipora district's Mir Mohalla area along with two other militants. The police however, accused the militants of shooting the boy dead. Taking to Twitter, Omar said: "I wish there was as much outrage in Kashmir against militants when they take a young boy hostage as there is when security forces are accused of human rights violations. "Selective outrage is cowardly and hypocritical." San Francisco, March 23 : Microsoft has confirmed that its old Office assistant Clippy, the animated paper clip character, is not making a comeback, at least not anytime soon. Born in Office 97, Clippy offered hints, helps and shortcuts to Microsoft Office users. Earlier this week, rumours of Clippy's return sparked after it made a one-day appearence as an animated pack of stickers for Microsoft Teams which were released on the Office Developer GitHub page, Engadget reported on Friday. However, the company has dismissed the possibility of Clippy's comeback. "Clippy has been trying to get his job back since 2001, and his brief appearance on GitHub was another attempt," The Verge quoted a Microsoft spokesperson as saying on Friday. "While we appreciate the effort, we have no plans to bring Clippy to Teams." The Windows-maker has now killed the GitHub project associated with Clippy for Microsoft Teams. "A source familiar with the situation at Microsoft tells that the 'brand police' inside the company weren't happy that Clippy had appeared in Microsoft Teams and immediately ordered the brutal firing of the anthropomorphic paperclip," the report said. However, surrendering to the nostalgia of the good old 90s days, fans have filed a user petition, gathering votes to bring Clippy back. Amaravati, March 23 : It's going to be an interesting fight between a veteran tribal leader and his daughter in Araku Lok Sabha constituency in Andhra Pradesh. The father is a seasoned politician and former union minister Vyricherla Kishore Chandra Suryanarayana Deo, who is contesting as a Telugu Desam Party (TDP) candidate while his daughter, New Delhi-based lawyer and social activist V. Shruti Devi, has been fielded by the Congress party. A six-time Parliamentarian and one of the most prominent tribal faces of the Congress, Deo ended his long association with the party last month to join the TDP. The 72-year-old is one of the tallest leaders of north coastal Andhra, where many politicians come from the families of erstwhile rulers of the region. Belonging to the royal tribal family of Kurupam in Vizianagaram district, Deo is popular as a "gentleman politician'. 'Raja of Kurupam', as he is called, is soft-spoken and belongs to the old-school of politicians. Known for his erudition, Deo enjoys good public support in Araku, a constituency reserved for tribals. A graduate in economics and post-graduate in political science, he was first elected to Lok Sabha in 1977 from Parvathipuram and was re-elected in 1980, 1984 and 2004. Deo, who began his political career with the Congress, was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 1977. When there was split in the party, he went with Congress (S). He served as Minister of State for Steel, Mines and Coal in the Charan Singh government in 1979. He returned to Congress in 1993 at the invitation of then Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. He was made a Rajya Sabha member in 1994. After two decades, he was elected to Lok Sabha in 2004 and was made a member of the Congress Working Committee in 2007. Following delimitation, Parvathipuram constituency became Araku and he won it from here in 2009. In 2011, he became the Minister for Tribal Affairs and Panchayati Raj in the Manmohan Singh cabinet. However, Deo lost from Araku in 2014, finishing a distant third as the Congress drew a blank in the state facing severe backlash over bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. Unhappy with the manner in which the Congress was functioning in the state, he finally quit the party and joined the TDP, which is now banking on his popularity to win the seat. He will be facing a tough contest against his daughter and Congress candidate. Shruti, who studied environmental law, actively campaigned for her father during last three elections. She had long been planning to contest from Araku on a Congress ticket. Shruti, also a writer, had exuded confidence she will win with a huge margin, irrespective of whoever pitted against her by the other parties. She joined the Congress in 1998 and ensured her father's victory in Lok Sabha elections after 20 years in 2004, according to information available on her website. She again played a key role in her father's win in 2009. During the campaigning she participated in the rallies and meetings held to oppose bauxite mining in tribal areas. In 2014, Kothapalli Geetha of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) had won from Araku but later defected to TDP. She has now floated a party and plans to enter the fray. YSRCP has this time fielded Goddeti Madhavi, daughter of former MLA Goddeti Demudu of the Communist Party of India. Madhavi works as physical education teacher in a tribal welfare school. Jana Sena party of actor Pawan Kalyan has announced Pangi Raja Rao as its candidate for Araku. (Mohammed Shafeeq can be contacted at m.shafeeq@ians.in) Christchurch, March 23 : Worshippers on Saturday returned to the Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, one of the two mosques where a gunman massacred 50 people on March 15. In a hugely symbolic moment for the mosque's members and the Muslim community, small groups of people were allowed back into the building to pray and pay their respects to the 42 people that lost their lives, The New Zealand Herald reported. Police handed the mosque back to the community and removed a security cordon just after midday. The second mosque in Linwood Avenue remains closed. Fresh white paint was still drying on the walls. The carpet had been ripped out and had not yet been replaced. A few rooms remained locked. Bullet holes had been plastered over and erased. Broken windows had been replaced and painted over with an intricate design. Outside, new roses have been planted. Two men kneeled and prayed on the right hand side of the mosque's main room. Four women prayed on the left. As the Al Noor mosque reopened, some 3,000 people walked through Christchurch on Saturday for a 'march for love' intended to honour victims, the BBC said. Many walked in silence and some carried placards calling for peace and opposing racism. Aden Diriye, who lost his three-year-old son in the attack, returned to the Al-Noor mosque on Saturday. "I am very happy," he said after praying. " I was back as soon as we rebuilt, to pray." Australian Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old self-proclaimed white supremacist, has been charged with one murder in connection with the attacks and he is expected to face further charges. Those who have rushed to psychoanalyze 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant for the outrage in Christchurch, New Zealand, mosques killing 50 people, are concealing the reality, possibly without their knowing it. This line of inquiry will not explain why Christchurch or Pulwama, Utrecht and now Birmingham happened. When Phoolan Devi, the low caste "mallah" (boatwoman) shot dead 22 high caste Rajputs in the village of Behmai, 80 km from Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh on February 4, 1981, she had taken the law into her own hands. This she had done because no law enforcement agency had come to her rescue when the very same men had locked her in a room and taken turns, repeatedly, to rape her over weeks. It was gross injustice she was fighting. During the British mandate over Palestine, Jews formed Haganah, a secret, militant organization - guns, hand grenades et al - to protect Jewish enclaves against "Arab gangs". Why was Haganah formed? Perceived injustice. In 1939, the British produced a White Paper restricting Jewish immigration. That is when the French built ocean liner, Patria, carrying nearly 2,000 Jews to Mauritius was sunk off Haifa killing 267 people. Later, the same group - its offshoot Irgun - bombed the King David hotel in Jerusalem, killing 28 British soldiers. Both were ghoulish acts. But would Menachem Begin, Member of Haganah later Prime Minister have seen it this way? According to their lights, Begin and, indeed, the entire Haganah outfit were fighting British injustice. April 13 will be the centenary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar. Colonel Reginald Dyer's character or a psycho analysis will not shed light on whether or not police action was required on a scale which killed 1,000 people. The official British figure was 379 dead. Lt. Governor of Punjab, Gen. Michael O'Dwyer, justified military action on administrative grounds. This is not the way Udham Singh the nationalist saw the massacre. He turned up in the UK and shot dead Gen. O'Dwyer in March 13, 1940 at the Caxton hall, now Royal Society for Royal Affairs. It was injustice he was fighting. In his trial Udham Singh said: "He wanted to crush the spirit of my people, so I crushed him. For full 21 years I have been trying to wreak vengeance. I am happy that I have done the job." There are series of such incidents which the state would have considered acts of terror. The perpetrators have been celebrated as martyrs and patriots including the great Bhagat Singh. They were fighting an unequal battle against injustice. During a visit to Libya, Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State appeared on global TV making a V sign and blurting out the unforgettable line, "I came, I saw and he died." Even as she spoke this masterpiece of callousness, appeared on the screen images of Qaddafi screaming, being sodomized by a knife. Would this not have made the Libyan blood boil with sheer helplessness? And not just Libya. Imagine the relentless destruction of Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, all the 9/11 wars. Millions are killed. Begins the migrant trek to Europe which all but shuts its doors, forgetting that just the other day it was complicit in destroying their homes, their cities and villages. The samples I have touched upon are of people experiencing injustice, suffocated and, presumably, waiting for their time. But the perpetrator of the Christchurch outrage is in a different category. He experienced no injustice. His phobia, like that of his fellow murderer from Norway, Anders Breivik, derives from the contemporary curse called the global media. They have been fed on the post Soviet Union, post 9/11 wars mentioned above. But they have seen these stories covered by a media which has mysteriously cast victims as villains. Jean Raspail's novel "Camp of the Saints" shows destruction of Western civilization through Third World immigration. This becomes Tarrant's nightmare. I was witness to the launch of the global media in Baghdad on January-February 1991. The Operation Desert Storm was covered live by Peter Arnett of the CNN. Not to comprehend the significance of this event is to miss out on the nature of International Affairs in the post-Soviet period. Remember, the Berlin wall fell in 1989; the Soviet Union came down like melting ice cream in 1991. This was the first time in human history that coverage of a war was brought live into our drawing rooms. The coverage divided the world into two hostile camps - the triumphant West and the defeated, demoralized Muslim nations. This critical division got amplified exponentially as the two Intefadas erupted, followed by the four-year-long Bosnia war bringing, once again the brutalities heaped upon Bosnian Muslims, day after day. The climax came with the 9/11 wars and the unbelievable fireworks over Afghanistan. With each war and accompanying global coverage the West-Muslim divide widened. It was this atmosphere so thoroughly saturated with Islamophobia which shaped the minds of Breivik and Brenton Tarrant. Leaders like George W. Bush, Tony Blair and Australia's John Howard cynically used this "othering" of the world's Muslims as a strategy for western cohesion. Fear of terrorism, real or simulated, resulted in loss of status of foreign offices. Intelligence agencies acquired saliency. In India, the sheer hypocrisy of the elite shrouded and thereby aggravated a corresponding division between non Muslims and Muslims stoked by our anchors. The new liberal economic policies of the 90s demanded a multiplication of TV channels. This coincided with accelerated communalization after the fall of the Babari Masjid in 1992. Capitalism and communalism joined hands and set the national agenda conducive to the consolidation of Hindu nationalism. In the ranks of these nationalists it would not be impossible to find willingness to give a sympathetic quarter to Brenton Tarrant. But to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern goes the credit for having taken the fierce current head on. Do an opinion poll anywhere: she is the compassionate leader the world is looking for. Donald Trump minimized the outrage and all but approved of Tarrant. Thanks to Ardern, New Zealand today feels like a land for pilgrimage to sooth the soul. (Saeed Naqvi is a commentator on political and diplomatic affairs. The views expressed are personal. He can be reached on saeednaqvi@hotmail.com) At the onset of the digital revolution, there was high expectation that digital communication technologies, especially the internet, will prove to be a boon to democracy. It was believed that the internet is a force for good. Its power of setting up a discussion platform which cannot be influenced by authoritarian powers; potential to impact the quality of public deliberation by providing citizens with direct and unfiltered access to information; and ability to provide leaders with an inexpensive platform to engage with citizens, was supposed to drastically alter political participation, democratic governance and lead to growth of democratic regimes. The evolution of these communication tools, as expected, did prove to be a democratising force in some cases. For instance, social media platforms enabled powerful demonstrations that played a major role in the downfall of oppressive regimes in Libya, Tunisia and Egypt. It also helped by providing the disenfranchised a voice and a way to participate in politics without joining a political party, attending meetings or visiting political offices. For instance, citizens all over the world have the power to bring their issues to light by organising online campaigns for policy change. However, during the last decade, the negative aspects of the digital tools have become apparent. There hardly goes a day without the allegations that digital tools are undermining democracy. Research by scholars shows that digital techniques are being used to promote particular candidates or political parties; to enflame social tensions; and to spread fake news. There are three ways in which influencers use digital tools to impact political participation as well as outcomes of democratic decision-making process. First, spreading fake news by conducting active disinformation campaigns. The problem has evolved as greater access to information has not been accompanied by digital literacy programmes to educate citizens how to discern genuine from fake news. The primary digital techniques used to publicise misinformation are "bots" and "sock - puppets." Bots are algorithmically driven computer programmes designed to do specific tasks online. They are used by political parties or campaign teams of candidates to rebroadcast content i.e. dampen or amplify messages. Sock-puppets are human-operated fake accounts used for the same purpose of spreading misinformation. In addition to amplifying messages, they are used to reply to other social media accounts as the credibility of sock-puppets is higher than bots. The gravity of problem of misinformed citizens, is higher than that of uninformed citizens, as the misinformed citizens are committed to their untrue beliefs. The news world is filled with examples of fake news. Second, cyber-attacks on databases. The theft and publication of government's and political party's private data has become a common form of digital interference during elections. These cyberattacks, based on the motive, can be categorised in two groups. One, the attackers, motivated by public interest, leak material that expose wrongdoings of political parties or candidates. Two, the attackers leak information to advance personal interest, rather than public interest. For instance, they publish data about their political opponents or the political parties they oppose. The value of hacked data is very high, given it is only available to police or intelligence agencies and hence such leaks have high political consequences. Examples of such attacks include leaking hacked data of seven key members of Democratic National Party in 2016 that caused reputational harm and leaking of email trails and documents belonging to campaign team of Enamuel Macron two days before 2017 French presidential elections. Apart from data breaches, tampering with voting machines, voters lists and databases that are integral to the voting process also threaten election integrity. Third, using big data and micro targeting techniques. In recent years, the world has experienced an exponential growth in data accumulation and processing. This rise in data accumulation, has made micro-targeting easier, compared to the pre-digital era. The influencers use algorithms to identify their target population and disseminate messages to them by using social media. These messages, that shape the political opinion of target population, have a significant impact on the electoral outcomes. A prime example of the use of big data to influence voters is the Brexit referendum. The 'Leave" party was assisted by companies that helped them micro-target advertisements and manipulate the behaviour of voters. These examples are reflective of the idea that democracy is under digital attack. The digital communication tools, that were once expected to make democracy more resilient, have started to look more like democracy's nemesis. India is no stranger to these issues. Social media has become a hotspot for spread of misinformation and mischief in India as evidenced in infamous episodes of mob lynching across the country. With general elections less than a month away for the world's largest democracy, it is critical that digital mediums are not misused. (Dr Amit Kapoor is chair, Institute for Competitiveness. He can be contacted at Amit.Kapoor@competitiveness.in and tweets @kautiliya. Manisha Kapoor, senior researcher, Institute for Competitiveness has contributed to the article) Kolkata, March 23 : Bolstered by an encouraging trend in the last general elections and subsequent state assembly polls, many tour operators and travel companies are gearing up for poll tourism, mainly targeting foreign tourists as political parties gear up for the April-May Lok Sabha contest. Poll tourism, which is emerging fast as a new segment, is not considered to be leisure travel and many operators are betting on overseas students studying in colleges and universities, media persons, youngsters and researchers keen to witness Indian elections to join their tours. "This new segment is fast emerging in India as overseas students, researchers and youngsters are increasingly taking interest in the world's largest democracy. They are keen to see how the Election Commission of India (ECI) conducts the poll process, which is a humongous exercise," Gujarat-based Akshar Travels chief Manish Sharma told IANS. According to tour and travel operators, poll tourism as a concept was tested in the Gujarat Assembly polls in 2012 and had received "good response" in the 2014 general elections and subsequent state assembly polls, though the scale of operations was on the "lower side". "This time, operators are gearing up and have started getting enquiries. About 5,000 tourists, taking the accumulated data from various operators, had come for the elections in 2014 from the US, the UK, UAE, Japan, Germany, France and many other European countries. Our expectation is that over 10,000 tourists will come this time for the polls," Sharma said. Like last time, the operators are planning to take tourists to public rallies of different political parties and trying to arrange interactions with candidates or ministers of the Central or state governments who are either in the fray or involved in the campaign for their respective parties, Travel Agents Federation of India National Committee Member Hitank Shah said. Asked why foreigners are keen to experience the poll process, he said: "Elections in India are like a festival. The Election Commission, too, calls the parliamentary battle the largest festival of democracy. Even the filing of nominations by the candidates has become colourful. Tourists coming from the UK, the US, Japan and some European countries want to see the political jamboree in India because they do not have the same kind of scenario in their respective countries. Along with witnessing the election process and procedure in India, the poll tourism packages covering 7-8 days tag known tourists destinations of various states so that the heritage, tradition and culture of India can be experienced, operators said. "We are expecting around 8,000-10,000 tourists to come and witness the election carnival in India. About 1,000-1,200 tourists have already made their bookings with various operators," Shah told IANS. Bookings and enquiries are "expected to go up" as political parties come out with full lists of candidates and start campaigning, Sharma said. Foreign tourists are keen to know how the electors choose their representatives in Parliament and how common people and political personalities interact with each other. The elections will be held in seven phases for 543 Lok Sabha constituencies from April 11 to May 19. The votes will be counted on May 23. Tour operators also said states with multiple-phase polls provide them a greater opportunity and flexibility to design the packages, while the 22 states and union territories going to the hustings in a single phase provides less flexibility. (Bappaditya Chatterjee can be contacted at bappaditya.c@ians.in) Mumbai, March 23 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dropped four sitting MPs from Maharashtra while announcing the second list of six nominees for the Lok Sabha elections here on Saturday morning. The candidates are: Maharashtra Minister Girish Bapat (Pune), Bharati Pawar (Dindori), Smita U. Wagh (Jalgaon), Kanchan R. Kul (Baramati) and Jaysidhesvar Swami (Solapur) and Pratap Patil Chikkalikar (Nanded). Those dropped include sitting Members of Parliament (MP) - Anil Shirole (Pune), Sharad Bansode (Solapur), A.T. Patil (Jalgaon) and Harishchandra Chavan (Dindori). Bharati Pawar, who was the state Vice-President of the Nationalist Congress Party, walked over to the BJP on Friday and was rewarded with a ticket. In the first list declared on Thursday, the BJP had announced 16 candidates from Maharashtra, plus six on Saturday, leaving another three names to be declared. The BJP and ally Shiv Sena are contesting 25 and 23 seats respectively of the total 48 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state. From its quota of 23, the Shiv Sena on Friday announced 21 candidates, with two more left to go from Palghar and Satara constituencies. The Sena dumped one sitting MP - Ravindra Gaikwad, who attained notoriety after the March 23, 2017 incident when he assaulted an Air India staffer at New Delhi Airport with slippers for allegedly not allotting him a business class seat. The party is likely to announce the names for the final two seats on Sunday, sources said. Wellington, March 23 : Two petitions were launched calling for New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize for her handling of the March 15 Christchurch mosques carnage, the media reported on Saturday. A Change.org petition, that started four days ago, has garnered more than 3,000 signatures while a petition on French website AVAAZ.org received over 1,000 signatures, The New Zealand Herald reported. "Following the tragic events of Christchurch and the adequate, open and peaceful response of New Zealand Premier Jacinda Ardern, we wish to propose her as the recipient of the upcoming Nobel Peace Prize," the French petition said. Ardern has been praised by the international community for the way she led the country through the carnage where 50 people lost their lives. In recognition of Ardern's work, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with an image of her in a hijab hugging a Muslim woman. Mumbai, March 23 : Changes in the SEBI listing and prevention of insider-trading regulations, revisions in the double-taxation avoidance agreements (DTAAs) with Mauritius and Singapore are set to come into effect from April 1. The changes in DTAAs give India the right to tax capital gains arising on Indian equity shares sold by a Singapore or Mauritian resident All this may also help improve corporate governance standards for the listed companies in India. Indian financial markets recently saw several cases of high volatility in companies, like Sun Pharma, DHFL and IL&FS, which created panic among retail investors. In all these, the role of the board came under lens. The modifications in the listing agreement will improve corporate governance by making relevant changes in the organisation of the board. Among the key regulations, which will come into effect, are that the top 1,000 listed companies will be required to have at least six directors on their board against three, prescribed by the Companies Act 2013. Besides, the top 500 will also need to have at least one independent woman director. Also, a director can hold that position in not more than the eight listed entities, while an individual will not be permitted to be independent director in more than seven companies. A detailed explanation will be required if an independent director resigns before completion of the term. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has also amended insider-trading regulations. As per the amendment, the definition of unpublished price sensitive information (UPSI) has been narrowed, allowing listed companies to share such information for board-determined legitimate purposes, but only if the disclosure is in the best interest of the company. While UPSI will help check insider-trading, the SEBI regulations have permitted flexibility by allowing block trade between insiders or between related parties within a company sharing same UPSI. The changes will also keep transactions undertaken due to a regulatory obligation and exercise of stock option at a pre-determined price out of the ambit of insider-trading. The new requirements with relation to SEBI regulations will also apply to intermediaries like auditors, accountancy firms, law firms, analysts and consultants. They'll have to put in place internal controls to check insider-trading. Additionally, the concessional tax regime for investors under the earlier DTAAs for making investments into India via Singapore and Mauritius will cease to exist from April 1. India amended DTAAs with Singapore and Mauritius in 2016. It gave India the right to collect tax on capital gains arising on Indian equity shares sold by a Singapore or Mauritian resident. New Delhi, March 23 : Rahul Gandhis close confidant Sam Pitroda, who is in the eye of a political storm after his alleged comment questioning the claims about the air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan, said on Saturday that he did not say anything disrespectful of jawans or the armed forces, terming the claims by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other top functionaries of the government and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party on his remarks as a blatant lie. Speaking to IANS in an exclusive interview, Sam Pitroda said that the 40-minute tape of his comments that created a furore is available for everybody, and that if anyone finds anything that "is disrespectful of our jawans or our army, I would be happy to say sorry, if not, then I would challenge them (PM, Jaitley and Amit Shah) for a debate on a public platform". "What nonsense is this... You can do character assassination on somebody. I have spent 30 years working here. I changed my nationality from being an American to Indian and you want to attack me with lies," he said, adding the 40-minute video does not contain anything even remotely close to what the PM or Amit Shah have said. "Opposition insults our forces time and again. I appeal to my fellow Indians: question Opposition leaders on their statements. Tell them 130 crore Indians will not forgive or forget the Opposition for their antics," wrote Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sam Pitroda, saying the Congress' royal courtier admits that what the nation already knew - Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror. When IANS asked Pitroda about his take on Balakot strike, he said that it was hard to say. "I only asked question. You said 300 people were killed. I asked for proof. I am entitled for that as a citizen of the country. I am a scientist. I believe in data. In fact, I am not emotional about these things. I want facts. When I read in The New York Times that nobody got killed, you tell me 300 were killed. I want to know. What is the problem, that does not show any disrespect for anybody," he said, adding "I respect our forces, I applaud their sacrifice but I want to ask a question. Sam Pitroda did not rule out that the entire top BJP machinery's reaction to his comment could be a diversion from the issue of Yeddyurappa diaries. He also said the other reason was that "they (Modi and others) know me well". "Narendra Modi calls me 'Satyan bhai' (his original name is Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda). He is close to my wife, at a personal level, they know who Sam Pitroda is. They are shaken up that he is going to be here and spend two months in campaign," he said, adding "I have skeletons in my closet. I have no bank accounts. No property. Never goofed up on women. I am sort of a Gandhian, never lied on tax, so anybody else they would put screws on, but they can not do anything to me." (Gautam Datt can be contacted at datt.gautam@gmail.com) Srinagar, March 23 : Kashmiri businessmen and civil society members, here on Saturday, expressed anguish at the alleged silence of the world community and rights organisations over the 'repeated brutalisation of Kashmiris'. Addressing a media conference, Sheikh Ashiq, president of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), said: "The business community and the local civil society have organised this press conference to collectively express our anguish at the perennial silence of the world community and human rights organisations over the repeated brutalisation of our community." He said the battered body of Rizwan Asad Pandit, a 29-year-old school teacher, picked up for questioning on March 17, was returned to the family on March 19. According to the family, marks on the body proved that he was subjected to extreme physical violence. The video of his final ablution, shared on social media by his brother, showed torture and burn marks, the KCCI chief said and alleged it was widely believed that Rizwan died in the custody due to physical torture inflicted upon him. On the magisterial inquiry ordered int it, Ashiq said most such inquiries end up without any results. "Such inquiries, suffering from institutional bias and state interference, have rarely served the interests of justice. We have reasons to believe this killing would also see the same fate and killers would roam free, more confident in that their crimes will never be brought to account," he said. Appealing Governor Satya Pal Malik for a time-bound independent special commission of inquiry, the KCCI president said, "Till the time the commission submits report, it would serve the ends of justice if the case is treated to be one of custodial killing and all persons associated with it are put behind bars and kept away from active duty". Astana, March 23 : Kazakhstan's new President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Saturday signed a decree to officially rename the country's capital Astana as Nur-Sultan. The capital is being renamed after former President Nursultan Nazarbayev who suddenly resigned on Wednesday after almost 30 years in power, Efe news reported. As per Kazakhstan's Ministry of Justice, the change is expected to come into effect on Monday. Tokayev proposed Astana's renaming on Wednesday, the same day he was appointed as the new President. The initiative was approved that same day by the Parliament in a fast-track procedure with the approval of the country's Constitutional Council. The decision sparked controversy as many Kazakhs felt it should be brought to a plebiscite. Kazakh police on Friday arrested several people protesting the name change. Guwahati, March 23 : The ruling BJP in Assam has axed five sitting MPs from contesting the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls and selected new faces instead. The BJP's first list of candidates dropped three sitting MPs including Bijoya Chakravarty (Guwahati), Ramen Deka (Mangaldai) and Kamakhya Prasad Tasa (Jorhat). The party has given tickets to Queen Ojah in Guwahati, Dilip Saikia in Mangaldai and State Minister Tapan Gogoi in Jorhat. The second list of the saffron party announced on Friday axed sitting Lok Sabha MP from Tezpur constituency, Ram Prasad Sarmah, and named State Minister Pallab Lochan Das to contest from the constituency. Although the party is yet to name its candidate for the Nowgong Lok Sabha constituency in Central Assam, sources in the party on Saturday confirmed the name of sitting legislator from Nowgong Sadar Assembly constituency Rupak Sarmah to contest the Lok Sabha polls this time from Nowgong. While the party leadership seemed to have axed Chakravarty due to her age, she is 79; Deka and Tasa were replaced due to poor performance. Union Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain withdrew his name from the race due to charges of rape and molestation filed against him by a woman last year. Ram Prasad Sarmah was axed after 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. Ram Prasad Sarmah had allegedly bribed the Chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) along with many others to get his daughter selected for the Assam Police Service Commission -- a major scam unearthed after the BJP-led government in Assam took over in 2016 and got over 30 selected candidates jailed for their involvement in the cash-for-job scam. His daughter is one of them. Gohain lobbied hard in New Delhi to get a ticket for his wife Rita Gohain in Nowgong but to no avail as, according to sources, the party has selected Rupak Sarmah. New Delhi, March 23 : The Delhi Police are scanning CCTV footage to identify four-five accused who robbed Rs 1.40 crore from a businessman here on Friday, said a police officer here on Saturday. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. when Vinod Garg, a grain trader, and his son were returning to their home in Saraswati Vihar of Outer Delhi in a car with Rs 1.40 crore cash in a bag. "When they reached near Kapil Vihar of Rani Bagh, four-five bike-borne men wearing helmets intercepted the car and asked the duo to hand over the bag to them flashing guns. The accused dragged them out of the car and threatened to kill," Deputy Commissioner of Police Seju P. Kuruvilla told IANS. "The accused fled in their (trader's) car with the cash," the DCP said. "The police later found the car abandoned some 400 meters away from the spot," he said. Chennai, March 23 : Construction of the Rs 150 crore solvent extraction plant of the Heavy Water Board's (HWB) in Thoothukudi will begin soon after regulatory approvals, said a top official. "The environmental clearance for the project was obtained form the Environmental Impact Assessment Authority, Tamil Nadu, on December 31, 2018," U. Kamachi Mudali, Chairman and Chief Executive, HWB, told IANS on Saturday. "The engineering part of the project has begun. Site construction work will start shortly after obtaining approval from regulatory authorities," Mudali said. The plant, likely to be commissioned in 2021, will have 25 ton rare material annual production capacity. "The plant will extract rare materials, like yttrium, yetterbium and erbium, from phosphoric acid, which will be used for captive consumption of Department of Atomic Energy," Mudali said. The proposal to set up rare material recovery plants at Haldia and Paradeep has been put on hold, he said. On heavy water production, Mudali said the current production capacity is 423 ton per annum (tpa). The process is on to restart 40 tpa heavy water plant in Thoothukudi by December. The heavy water is used as coolant or moderator in pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWR). "Once the Thoothukudi heavy water plant starts operating, total production will go up to 463 tpa," Mudali said. The Thoothukudi plant was shut for lack of feed material supplies after fertiliser company SPIC Ltd closed its plant in the district. The HWB heavy water plants in Kota, Manuguru, Thal and Hazira operated with more than the full capacity utilisation in 2017-18, Mudali said. Mogadishu, March 23 : As many as six people were killed, including a minister, and 11 others injured in a suicide attack in Somalia capital Mogadishu on Saturday, police said. The suicide car bomb attack was targeted at the Ministry of Labor and Public works building, Xinhua quoted police officer Mohamed Abdulle as saying. Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, member of Parliament and Deputy Minister for Labour and Social Affairs, was among killed in the terror attack, said lawmaker Mohamed Omar Dalha. According to witnesses, the explosions were followed by gunfires. Militant group Al-Shabab has claimed the responsibility for the bombings. Mumbai, March 23 : Sandeep Ssingh, one of the producers of "PM Narendra Modi", says that the makers of the forthcoming film had acquired the rights of a song penned by lyricist Javed Akhtar and that is why he was given a credit. The producer also says Akhtar could have discussed it before commenting on social media. "Javed Akhtar is one of the highly regarded poets and lyricists of our nation and I have grown up watching his films and songs. He knows all of us so, before tweeting on the matter, he could have just made a call. "We bought the copyright of the song before using it in our film. Our music department followed the process," Ssingh told IANS here. Akhtar had tweeted on Friday: "I am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it." He also posted a snapshot of the trailer's video in which his name was mentioned among several other artistes in the lyrics category. But did anyone contact Akhtar? "Even he could have done the same thing. He knows Vivek (Oberoi, the film's lead actor), he knows Bhushan Kumar of T-Series. Before tweeting, he could have contacted us," the producer replied. According to a statement from Ssingh, "T-Series being the official music partner of our film...we have taken the songs 'Ishwar Allah'* from the film '1947: Earth' and the song 'Suno gaur se duniya walon' from the film 'Dus', thus we have given the due credits to respective lyricists Javed Sahab and Sameerji". The film is also involved in controversy because of its trailer. Many claimed that the trailer that was shown to the media earlier this week was different from what is now available on YouTube for public viewing. Are the makers trying to avoid the projection of the 2002 Gujarat riots in the film? Without speaking much about the trailer, Ssingh said: "...people will have to watch the film." The movie is releasing on April 5, a few days before the commencement of the Lok Sabha elections in India. But a leader of the DMK in Pollachi in Tamil Nadu has reportedly written to the Chief Election Commissioner seeking a ban on the release of Modi's biopic till the Lok Sabha polls get over. Asked about it, Ssingh said: "I think whether it is the DMK or (other) political party, instead of talking about the film, they should focus on the work they have done for the state and for their people." London, March 23 : Thousands gathered on Saturday to march through London calling for a second European Union (EU) referendum, as MPs search for a way out of the Brexit impasse. Demonstrators from the "Put It To The People" campaign will march from Park Lane to Parliament Square, followed by a rally in front of the Parliament, the BBC reported. It comes after the EU agreed to delay the UK's departure from the EU. Prime Minister Theresa May has said she will ditch plans for another vote on her Brexit deal if enough MPs don't support it. Unless that deal is passed by the MPs, the UK will have to come up with an alternative plan or else face leaving without a deal in April. Meanwhile, a record-breaking online petition on Parliament's website calling for Brexit to be cancelled by revoking Article 50 has attracted more than 4.18 million signatures. Liberal Democrat MP Layla Moran said the petition could "give oxygen" to the campaign for another Brexit referendum. Speakers at the rally will include Labour party's deputy leader Tom Watson, Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, Independent MP Anna Soubry and former Attorney General Dominic Grieve. Sturgeon said now was "the moment of maximum opportunity" to avoid a no-deal Brexit. Watson is expected to promise to back May's deal if she agrees to hold a referendum on it. Soubry said: "It's intolerable the situation that we're in and I'm afraid Theresa's the problem. "I'm not saying the government should go because that's the last thing we want, but I think she has to go and we need some temporary prime minister who can reach out, put the country first, get this back to the British people - that's what we're all marching for today, a people's vote." If May's deal is approved by MPs next week, the EU has agreed to extend the Brexit deadline until May 22. If it is not - and no alternative plan is put forward - the UK is set to leave the EU on April 12. In a letter to all MPs on Friday evening, May offered to talk to them over the coming days "as Parliament prepares to take momentous decisions". Children's Minister Nadhim Zahawi said that failing to support May's deal would lead to a "meltdown in our politics, not just for the Conservative party but for all parties". The march comes as the pro-Brexit March to Leave, which started in Sunderland a week ago, continues towards London. Mumbai, March 23 : Changes in the SEBI listing and prevention of insider-trading regulations, revisions in the double-taxation avoidance agreements (DTAAs) with Mauritius and Singapore are set to come into effect from April 1. The changes in DTAAs give India the right to tax capital gains arising on Indian equity shares sold by a Singapore or Mauritian resident All this may also help improve corporate governance standards for the listed companies in India. Indian financial markets recently saw several cases of high volatility in companies, like Sun Pharma, DHFL and IL&FS, which created panic among retail investors. In all these, the role of the board came under lens. The modifications in the listing agreement will improve corporate governance by making relevant changes in the organisation of the board. Among the key regulations, which will come into effect, are that the top 1,000 listed companies will be required to have at least six directors on their board against three, prescribed by the Companies Act 2013. Besides, the top 500 will also need to have at least one independent woman director. Also, a director can hold that position in not more than the eight listed entities, while an individual will not be permitted to be independent director in more than seven companies. A detailed explanation will be required if an independent director resigns before completion of the term. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has also amended insider-trading regulations. As per the amendment, the definition of unpublished price sensitive information (UPSI) has been narrowed, allowing listed companies to share such information for board-determined legitimate purposes, but only if the disclosure is in the best interest of the company. While UPSI will help check insider-trading, the SEBI regulations have permitted flexibility by allowing block trade between insiders or between related parties within a company sharing same UPSI. The changes will also keep transactions undertaken due to a regulatory obligation and exercise of stock option at a pre-determined price out of the ambit of insider-trading. The new requirements with relation to SEBI regulations will also apply to intermediaries like auditors, accountancy firms, law firms, analysts and consultants. They'll have to put in place internal controls to check insider-trading. Additionally, the concessional tax regime for investors under the earlier DTAAs for makas "not disgruntled or unhappy with anybody either in the party or the leadership" which could have prompted him to leave the party. "I am very keen to do something for the Muslim community, help solve their problems and achieve their aspirations. I feel it can be done on a larger platform through a Muslim elected to Parliament." He added that members of all communities were keen that he should take the plunge in national politics for the betterment of all the people of Aurangabad and he had decided to bow before their wishes. "Not only will I contest, I will not withdraw and I hope to definitely win the Lok Sabha elections," said Sattar, who is a two-time legislator, adding that he would give a tough fight to all the other candidates in the fray. When contacted, an aide to state Congress President Ashok Chavan said they would await details before commenting on the matter. In July 2018, Sattar was among five legislators from various parties who had resigned from their Maharashtra Legislature seats in support of the Maratha quotas agitation. However, after the state government finally cleared the 16 per cent reservations for Marathas in November, the issue was resolved amicably and their resignation issue also ended. New Delhi, March 23 : Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora (GKPD) on Saturday welcomed Union government's "positive and pathbreaking" decision to ban separatist organization Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) and holding its founder, Yasin Malik, responsible for the "genocide" of Kashmiri Pandits. The GKPD, a joint initiative of Kashmiri Pandit organizations in India and abroad, has been persistently demanding the formal acknowledgement that what the Kashmiri Pandits suffered was nothing but "genocide". "Today, Kashmiri Pandit community has proven to be triumphant in that the sword of their truth has prevailed over the sword of violence. Kashmiri Pandits have been steadfast in their truth, Satyamev Jayate, even in the face of an extremely hostile state administration and a complicit establishment," GKPD said in a statement. They said that the "victory" has been achieved because of the sacrifices and hard work of the entire Kashmiri Pandit community. "It culminated in the trailblazing Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which articulated that the first and foremost demand of the Kashmiri Pandit community was to recognize Kashmiri Pandit Genocide and Ethnic cleansing," the GKPD said. The GKPD MOU was presented to union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in September, 2018. "We thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for recognizing that the militant movement in Kashmir was not about liberation, not about economic suffering, not about justice but a theo-fascist movement which has brought great suffering to the land and its people," the statement added. "After years of waiting while steadfastly vouching for the truth, the community is looking at vindication of that stand." In a recent GKPD Conclave "Right the Wrong" held on February 23, 2019, PDP MP Muzaffar Hussain Baig had also endorsed Kashmiri Pandits' genocide and ethnic cleansing. The GKPD will announce a political steering committee very soon and GKPD will partner with all stakeholders in Jammu and Kashmir and Government so that Kashmiri Pandit demand that the community be declared as Internally Displaced People becomes real and that all reliefs as laid down in the United Nations guiding principles be applied to them. The Indian government on Friday outlawed the JKLF led by Muhammad Yasin Malik, alleging it was responsible for promoting terrorism and secessionism in the state. Bengaluru, March 23 : Defying the pre-poll alliance between the ruling allies in Karnataka, outgoing Congress Lok Sabha member S.P. Muddahanumegowda on Saturday dared to re-contest from Tumkur constituency from where Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) supremo H.D. Deve Gowda is contesting and filing nomination on Monday. "Though my party (Congress) conceded my constituency (Tumkur) to the JD-S as part of the seat-sharing arrangement, I have decided to re-contest in response to the demand from thousands of my supporters and cadre," Muddahanumegowda told reporters in Kannada at Tumkur, about 70km northwest of Bengaluru. As part of the pre-poll tie-up, the Congress is contesting from 20 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats across the southern state, leaving the remaining 8, including Tumkur to the JD-S despite vociferous protests by the party's local leaders and cadres. "I will also file nomination on Monday as a Congress candidate from Tumkur again even if Deve Gowda files nomination as a JD-S candidate. In the event of my party not giving me B-form as its contestant, I will still be in the fray as an Independent," an agitated Muddahanumegowda said, adding he cannot let down his supporters at any cost. Accusing his party high command of going back on its word to allow all its nine outgoing or sitting LoK Sabha members to re-contest, the rebel MP said why he should be made a scapegoat when the party's other MPs were allowed to re-contest from their seats. In fact, with 9 wins in the 2014 parliamentary polls from the state, the Congress had the largest number of Lok Sabha members from Karnataka, accounting for 21 per cent of the 44 seats it won from across the country though lowest ever since the first general elections way back in 1951-52. The BJP won 17 and JD-S only 2 in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections from the state. Ironically, Deputy Chief Minister from the Congress G. Parameshwara, who hails from Tumkur district, is said to be backing Muddahanumegowda unofficially due to mounting pressure from the party's local leaders and cadres. "I hope my party leaders and the JD-S will understand the pulse of the voters and allow me to re-contest from Tumkur and re-allocate another parliamentary seat to the JD-S," said an emotional Muddahanumegowda. Earlier in the evening, JD-S spokesman Ramesh Babu said in a statement that former prime minister Deve Gowda would file his nomination on March 25 at the deputy commissioner's office at Tumkur as a joint candidate of the JD-S-Congress alliance. The 85-year-old Gowda has shifted his parliamentary constituency from Hassan, about 180km from here, after representing it for a record six times since 1991 to pave way for his grandson Prajwal to contest in his place for the first time. Prajwal, the only son of Deve Gowda's second son and state PWD Minister H.D. Revanna, filed his nomination on March 22 from the Hassan parliamentary seat, which is the traditional bastion of the Gowda clan. Polling in Tumkur and Hassan will be held in the first phase on April 18 along with 12 other seats in the central and southern regions of the state. Polling in the remaining 14 seats in the coastal and northern regions will be held in the second phase on April 23. Vote count in all the 28 Lok Sabha seats across the state will be on May 23. Pathanamthitta, March 23 : After weeks of wrangling among senior leaders within the state unit of the party, BJPs fiery leader K Surendran won the partys nomination to contest from the coveted Pathanamthitta constituency. The seat had become a bone of contention with an array of senior leaders staking their claim to the constituency. Pathanamthitta became an attractive proposition for BJP leaders as it was the epicenter of the BJP-RSSs agitation against the supreme court verdict lifting curbs on womens entry to the Sabarimala temple. The BJP Kerala unit believes the agitation would translate into electoral gains for the party. BJP national leadership on Saturday published a third list of candidates for the ensuing general elections, confirming Surendrans candidature from the central Kerala constituency, bringing the curtains down on the tug of war in the state unit over the seat. BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai had staked claim to the Pathanamthitta seat. However, the V Muraleedharan faction threw spanner in the works by canvassing for K Surendran. They argued that Surendran deserved the seat for having been at the forefront of the Sabarimala agitation. Surendran had also put the state leadership in a fix by insisting on contesting from either Pathanamthitta or Thrissur. Accommodating him in Thrissur became out of the question after BJP national president Amit Shah asked Thushar Vellappally, chief of BJPs principal ally BDJS in the NDA in Kerala, to contest from Thrissur. In the event, the biggest loser in the bargaining for seats is proving to be BJP Kerala chief Sreedharan Pillai as all the seats deemed favourable for the BJP in the ensuing polls have slipped out of his hands. He had seen Thiruvananthapuram, another constituency where the BJP is expected to improve its electoral performance, as an alternative if he failed to pin down the Pathanamthitta seat. But that hope too was dashed after the BJP national leadership at the request of a section of the state leaders pressed former party Kerala unit chief Kummanam Rajasekharan to put in his papers as Mizoram governor to seek the peoples mandate from Thiruvananthapuram. Mumbai, March 23 : An off-the-cuff remark by Maharashtra Congress President Ashok Chavan, in an audio-clip that went viral on Saturday, sparked of speculation whether he was going to quit before the 2019 elections. The episode pertained to a conversation between Chavan and a party activist from Chandrapur, identifying himself as Rajurkar, seeking to voice resentment and opposition among party workers to nomination of Vinayak Bangade for the Chandrapur Lok Sabha seat. During the conversation, Chavan is heard saying: "I have also informed the party. Nobody is listening to me. I am also thinking whether to quit." He suggested Rajurkar raise the issue with central party leader Mukul Wasnik, implying he called the shots on candidature. "But, Wasnik is a non-entity before you," the caller replied. Later, when questioned by the media, Chavan - a former Chief Minister - said he had not heard the audio, but denied that he has quit. He also questioned "why a purely private conversation was made public in this manner". Agreeing that there are certain issues on the nomination announced for Chandrapur, he, however, said, "But, it is our internal matter and I would not prefer to discuss it publicly." The party also dismissed the speculation of Chavan quitting. "All these are just mischievous rumours to create confusion. The state party President has not reigned," state spokesperson Sachin Sawant told IANS. Chavan's quitting rumours gained quick credence coming barely hours after the party legislator from Sillod in Aurangabad, Abdul Sattar, suddenly resigned to contest as an independent candidate for the Lok Sabha, challenging Shiv Sena's Chandrakant Khaire and Congress' Subhash Zambad. A former minister and two-time legislator, Sattar took pains to maintain that he has "not rebelled, nor harboured any grievances/complaints against anybody in the party", but had quit on his own initiative. Congress insiders claim that on several occasions, the party has not even taken Chavan into confidence before declaring names of Lok Sabha candidates, even though he is also a sitting MP from Nanded. In fact, in the run-up to the elections in the past few days, there have been several "incomings" to the Bharatiya Janata Party from both the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party. Prominent among them are: Sujay, the son of Leader of Opposition Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil of the Congress and Ranjitsinh, the son of former Deputy Chief Minister Vijaysinh Mohite-Patil of the NCP, and others, who have been promptly rewarded with BJP tickets. Kolkata, March 23 : Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Subramanian Swamy here on Saturday said China's stance on Pakistan would change by September, and added India, China and the US should cooperate with each other by becoming the part of a 'trilateral system'. "China will change. If we tell them that the US, France and Russia have agreed to mark Pakistan a 'terror state' and they should do the same. They will have to change," he said on the sidelines of Annual Calcutta Dialogue 2019 in the West Bengal capital. "Our objective should not be to support the US or China, but to be a part of the trilateral system," he stressed. "Obviously, we would be closer to China as we are neighbours and both of us have influence in south-east Asia, either politically or culturally. Therefore, our objective should be not to involve in any bilateral controversy between these three countries ever," he said. According to him, if the US has a problem with China, India should have nothing to do with it. Same way, if India has a problem with the US, one should not expect China to side with India. On certain issues, China is expected to be with India and that has to be done with discussion as it is also a victim of terrorism. On China's support to Pakistan, he said: "When Chinese make a commitment, they keep it and that is what explains their relationship with Pakistan. I am not happy with their relationship with Pakistan and would like to request them to be with us instead or at least stay neutral." The priority should be to resolve all the tensions between India and China. India must be clear about neighbouring country's objective before promoting the Chinese language, understanding of their culture and so on, the BJP veteran said. Hyderabad, March 23 : Telangana's main opposition Congress urged the state Governor on Saturday to disqualify nine legislators who defected to the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS). A delegation of Congress leaders led by party's central leader and former Union Minister M. Veerappa Moily called on Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan at the Raj Bhavan and submitted him a memorandum. They urged the Governor to direct the Assembly Speaker to disqualify those MLAs who have announced that they were leaving the Congress. The delegation included former Union Minister S. Jaipal Reddy, party Secretary incharge of party affairs in the state R. C. Khuntia, state Congress chief Uttam Kumar Reddy and Congress Legislature Party leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka. The party also resolved to take the up issue of defections at the national level and complain to the Lokpal. Earlier, Moily met senior party leaders and discussed the situation created by the defection of nine MLAs this month. This has reduced Congress party's strength in 119-member Telangana Assembly to 10. Moily told reporters that the TRS was engineering defections in the Congress and warned that Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao would have to pay a price for this. Terming defections a "blood cancer", he said party President Rahul Gandhi was concerned about it. Exuding confidence that Congress would come to power at the Centre, the former Law Minister said it would bring amendments to Anti-Defection Law to provide more teeth to the courts to deal with the problem. Khuntia said the MLAs who were elected on the Congress symbol should resign from the Assembly. Uttam Kumar Reddy alleged that the TRS was indulging horse trading by using the "ill-gotten" money. He claimed that the statements of all defected MLAs were similar and typed in the Chief Minister's office. Chennai, March 23 : Construction of the Heavy Water Board's (HWB) Rs 150 crore solvent extraction plant in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi will begin soon after regulatory approvals, said a top official. "The environmental clearance for the project was obtained from the Environmental Impact Assessment Authority, Tamil Nadu, on December 31, 2018," HWB Chairman and Chief Executive U. Kamachi Mudali told IANS on Saturday. "The engineering part of the project has begun. Site construction work will start shortly after obtaining approval from regulatory authorities," Mudali said. The plant, likely to be commissioned in 2021, will have 25 ton rare material annual production capacity. "The plant will extract rare earth elements, like yttrium, yetterbium and erbium, from phosphoric acid, which will be used for captive consumption of Department of Atomic Energy," Mudali said. The HWB chairman also said that the proposal to set up rare material recovery plants at West Bengal's Haldia and Odisha's Paradeep has been put on hold. On heavy water production, Mudali said the current production capacity is 423 ton per annum (tpa) and work to restart 40 tpa heavy water plant in Thoothukudi is on. Heavy water, a compound of hydrogen's deuterium isotope and oxygen, is used as coolant or moderator in pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWR). "Once the Thoothukudi heavy water plant starts operating, total production will go up to 463 tpa," Mudali said. The Thoothukudi plant was shut for lack of feed material supplies after fertiliser company SPIC Ltd closed its plant in the district. The HWB heavy water plants in Kota, Manuguru, Thal and Hazira operated with more than full capacity utilisation in 2017-18, Mudali said. Apart from nuclear power plants, HWB is supplying heavy water to Indian research/academic organisations and collaborators for non-nuclear applications. "During last fiscal year about Rs 60 lakh worth of heavy water has been supplied to these institutions for their research work," Mudali said. New Delhi, March 23 : As the clamour for Congress President Rahul Gandhi to fight from a seat in southern India grows, Amethi district Congress and its various units on Saturday passed resolutions that he should accept the offer like his mother Sonia Gandhi and grandmother Indira did in the past. It seemed a trifle contrived and perhaps orchestrated in the face of Union minister Smriti Irani rising heft in Amethi. "Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and former President Sonia Gandhi too contested from southern India and represented the country. It will be a sign of respect for Congress workers in south India. A resolution has been passed that Rahul Gandhi should accept this offer. It's a welcome move," a resolution from the Amethi unit of the Congress Seva Dal read. "People of Amethi are excited and have blessed him (Rahul) with their support. He will win from both the seats and become Prime Minister," it added. The two seats referred to are Amethi and the one from southern India. The support for Rahul to contest from a seat in southern India came from Amethi's NSUI, SC department, Youth Congress and All India Kisan Morcha units which adopted such resolutions supporting the demand. All the resolutions have the exactly same wording. This comes in the wake of top Congress leaders in Kerala, including AICC general secretary Oommen Chandy and Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala urging Gandhi to contest from the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala. "Today, we have again put forward our request and I have already spoken to the Wayanad district Congress president, who also evinced huge interest," said Chennithala. The Congress has already nominated Kozhikode district Congress president T. Siddique to contest from the Wayanad seat. The Congress state units in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka had also demanded that the party president contest the Lok Sabha elections from the respective states. Asked about the demands, Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said that Rahul Gandhi will positively consider it. "We thank them for their effort as also expression of their love and affection and Congress President will positively consider it," Surjewala told reporters. The Congress under Rahul Gandhi has tried to develop a convention of picking candidates on the basis of recommendations of local party units. This could be employed in the case of the party president as well. The Congress earlier this month had announced that Rahul Gandhi will contest from his family bastion of Amethi. However, Deepak Singh, Leader of the Congress in Uttar Pradesh legislative council, said that Rahul Gandhi should respect the sentiments of the party's Kerala unit but he is having family relations with Amethi. "Rahul ji is a national leader. Every state wants him to contest. He must respect the feelings of party workers in Kerala but he is having family relationship with Amethi. Rajiv Gandhi won from Amethi and became Prime Minister. Amethi is going to repeat this. Rahul Gandhi, an MP from Amethi, will become Prime Minister," Singh, an MLC from Amethi, tweeted. Meanwhile, Union Minister Smriti Irani took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, saying the people of Amethi had rejected him and he was now creating a drama about demands being raised for him to contest from a southern seat. "Amethi ne bhagaya, jagah-jagah se bulawe ka swang rachaya, kyonki janata ne thukraya. (Amethi forced you to run away, creating drama of demands from different places, because people have rejected you)," Irani tweeted with a hashtag 'Bhag Rahul Bhag'. She used lines from Ramdhari Singh Dinkar's poem to taunt him with the words, "Sinhasan khali karo Rahulji ki janata aati hai (vacate the throne for people, they are coming)" which was also used by Jayaprakash Narayan to attract and encourage lakhs of people at the Ramlila Maidan in Delhi during the Emergency. The BJP has again fielded Irani from Amethi in the upcoming general election. In the last Lok Sabha polls, she challenged Rahul Gandhi in his bastion and was defeated by a margin of over one lakh votes. However, his victory was far less impressive than in most earlier Lok Sabha elections in Amethi. The Congress party's vote share was reduced to 46 per cent in 2014 as against the earlier figures of 71 per cent and 66 per cent in the 2009 and 2004 elections, respectively. The BJP, whose vote share in Amethi remained in the single digits in 2004, garnered 37 per cent of the votes cast in 2014. The seat has long been a stronghold of the Congress, which has not been defeated here in three decades -- barring in 1998, when the BJP's Sanjay Singh defeated Satish Sharma of the Congress by a margin of 23,270 votes. Amethi was regained by the Congress in 1999 when Sonia Gandhi was elected MP from there. New Delhi, March 23 : A buzz is going around about the relative of a popular politician getting detained by the Customs authorities at Kolkata's NSCBI Airport for checking of her baggage, with the incident sparking a stand-off between the Customs authorities and the local police. Days after the "incident" was "reported" by some portals and the Bengali moutpiece of the CPI-M, a copy of a purported police complaint filed by a customs official on March 22 against two women, including the relative of the politician, was prominently carried by a couple of national news channels on Saturday. The "police complaint" filed by the customs official, which he requested be treated as an FIR, alleged "interference, obstruction and criminal intimidation" of Customs officials by the security personnel relating to the examination of baggage of two women passengers who arrived from abroad at Kolkata airport. The five-page "complaint", which on close scrutiny was found to be unsigned, also mentioned that the women finally left the airport via the green channel. The 'complaint' claimed that one of the women also filed a complaint with the police against the Customs authorities alleging "misbehaviour, harassment, undue detention and extortion of money for clearing her baggage". IANS tried to get in touch with the Customs official, whose name appears as the complainant, but he refused to take calls or respond to messages. An officier at the NSCBI airport, where the complaints are said to have been lodged, also refused to speak to IANS on the issue. The Bharatiya Janata Party called a media conference on the issue in the evening, but cancelled it after realising the "copy of the complaint" in its possession was "unsigned". Meanwhile, without mentioning any incident, Trinamool spokesperson and leader in the Rajya Sabha Derek O'Brien said on Twitter: "Expect more of this from BJP-RSS during #elections.How they spread #FakeNews "Step 1: Create a 'false story'; Step 2: Publish the 'false story' on a RW portal; Step 3: Spread story via social media & paid WA; Step 4: Media take notice. Then fave BJP channels run falsehood". Mumbai, March 23 : Actor Vidyut Jammwal, gearing up for the release of his next film 'Junglee', has said Chuck Russell, director of the action-thriller, "brings star value to the film but doesn't behave like a star on the set". Jammwal was interacting with the media, here on Saturday, during the promotion of his movie. He is collaborating with well known Hollywood filmmaker Russell in 'Junglee' for the first time. Sharing his experience with Russell, Jammwal said: "Chuck sir is a known director. He made 'The Mask' with Jim Carrey, launched Dwayne Johnson in 'The Scorpion King' and worked with Arnold Schwarzenegger in 'Eraser'. I was very happy to work with him." Talking about difference between Indian and Hollywood filmmakers, Vidyut said: "There isn't much difference. We have good filmmakers in India too, but Hollywood directors work in a slightly different manner," he said. Hollywood directors were very conscious about punctuality, he said and added, "If they decide to start shooting at 6 a.m. then all have to follow the schedule. If pack up is decided at 6 p.m., you will have to follow that also. I think discipline is biggest difference between Indian and Hollywood directors.". Hailing Russell's behaviour on set, Jammwal said despite being such a well known director, he treated everyone with a lot of respect. "He brings star value to the film, but doesn't behave like a star on a film set," he said. 'Junglee' revolves around a veterinary doctor who upon returning to his father's elephant reserve encounters and fights an international poacher racket. Talking about preparations to play his character in 'Junglee', Jammwal said: "As it is a really different film, I had to prepare differently." "This film is primarily based on forest animals. We had to live in forest and eat whatever was available there. When you do such films, you need to prepare mentally for these things," he said. 'Junglee', an action thriller, is directed by Russell and produced by Junglee Pictures. It features Vidyut Jammwal, Pooja Sawant, Asha Bhat and Atul Kulkarni in lead roles. The movie is set to release on March 29. -IANS iv/rs/pcj Kolkata, March 23 : A controversy erupted over a puja of Lord Krishna in north Kolkata, which depicted the return of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman by installing three life-size statues of the Indian Air Force pilot, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan. The Puja organised by 'Bhai Bhai Sangha' on occasion of Holi in north Kolkata's Kumartuli area, also had a laminated photograph of the Attari border between India and Pakistan with an imaginary conversation between the two Prime Ministers, inscribed on it. "I think the concept is incorrect. The Indian Army or the Air Force will always stand by the country, irrespective of any political party being in power. So why should they be dragged into it? I do not know the intention behind such a theme. If in case somebody has done it with a political intention, then that is something we do not stand by," Bengal Minister for Women and Child Development and local MLA Sashi Panja told IANS. "Because it is a puja theme, we do not expect there is a political intention behind it. We have always said that the party does not endorse politics in the name of patriotism. We all are proud of our country and our army. But to use it for one political party is something that our party has already spoken against," she said. The organisers, however, said they faced criticism from the local activists of Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress for displaying Modi and Vartaman's statues together and the pandal has been dismantled on Friday, a day after the 'Dolyatra', as Holi is known in West Bengal. "We depicted this as our theme as it was a proud moment for the country. Varthaman has become a national icon after his return from Pakistan. But some locals did not like the concept. The puja was a one-day affair. So we have already dismantled the pandals and removed the statues," one of the puja organisers told IANS. New Delhi, March 23 : A 60-year-old former Intelligence Bureau (IB) junior Officer was found dead under mysterious circumstances at his flat in east Delhi, the police said here on Saturday. Narendra Kumar Pal was found dead on Friday by neighbours in Himvarsha Apartments, Madhu Vihara, after they felt foul smell emanating from the flat. The neighbours later informed the local police. "The deceased was staying alone in his flat following a dispute with wife, a few years ago. He worked as a junior officer with the IB before taking voluntary retirement citing personal reasons in 2010," a police officer said. "During investigation, it was found that Pal had died a week ago, but the neighbours came to know about his death only after foul smell from the decomposed body started to come out of the flat. Unfortunately, none of his family members came to visit Pal on Holi," the officer said. "Pal is survived by wife Rajbala (54) and two daughters, Sheetal (27) and Shweta (23), who stayed elsewhere. It is said the deceased suffered from alcohol addiction," he said. The body has been sent for an autopsy. New Delhi, March 23 : As the clamour for Congress President Rahul Gandhi to fight from a seat in southern India grows, Amethi district Congress and its various units on Saturday passed resolutions that he should accept the offer like his mother Sonia Gandhi and grandmother Indira did in the past. It seemed a trifle contrived and perhaps orchestrated in the face of Union minister Smriti Irani's rising heft in Amethi. "Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and former President Sonia Gandhi too contested from southern India and represented the country. It will be a sign of respect for Congress workers in south India. A resolution has been passed that Rahul Gandhi should accept this offer. It's a welcome move," a resolution from the Amethi unit of the Congress Seva Dal read. "People of Amethi are excited and have blessed him (Rahul) with their support. He will win from both the seats and become Prime Minister," it added. The two seats referred to are Amethi and the one from southern India. The support for Rahul to contest from a seat in southern India came from Amethi's NSUI, SC department, Youth Congress and All India Kisan Morcha units which adopted such resolutions supporting the demand. All the resolutions have the exactly same wording. This comes in the wake of top Congress leaders in Kerala, including AICC general secretary Oommen Chandy and Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala urging Gandhi to contest from the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala. "Today, we have again put forward our request and I have already spoken to the Wayanad district Congress president, who also evinced huge interest," said Chennithala. The Congress has already nominated Kozhikode district Congress president T. Siddique to contest from the Wayanad seat. The Congress state units in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka had also demanded that the party president contest the Lok Sabha elections from the respective states. Asked about the demands, Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said that Rahul Gandhi will positively consider it. "We thank them for their effort as also expression of their love and affection and Congress President will positively consider it," Surjewala told reporters. The Congress under Rahul Gandhi has tried to develop a convention of picking candidates on the basis of recommendations of local party units. This could be employed in the case of the party president as well. The Congress earlier this month had announced that Rahul Gandhi will contest from his family bastion of Amethi. However, Deepak Singh, Leader of the Congress in Uttar Pradesh legislative council, said that Rahul Gandhi should respect the sentiments of the party's Kerala unit but he is having family relations with Amethi. "Rahul ji is a national leader. Every state wants him to contest. He must respect the feelings of party workers in Kerala but he is having family relationship with Amethi. Rajiv Gandhi won from Amethi and became Prime Minister. Amethi is going to repeat this. Rahul Gandhi, an MP from Amethi, will become Prime Minister," Singh, an MLC from Amethi, tweeted. Meanwhile, Union Minister Smriti Irani took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, saying the people of Amethi had rejected him and he was now creating a drama about demands being raised for him to contest from a southern seat. "Amethi ne bhagaya, jagah-jagah se bulawe ka swang rachaya, kyonki janata ne thukraya. (Amethi forced you to run away, creating drama of demands from different places, because people have rejected you)," Irani tweeted with a hashtag 'Bhag Rahul Bhag'. She used lines from Ramdhari Singh Dinkar's poem to taunt him with the words, "Sinhasan khali karo Rahulji ki janata aati hai (vacate the throne for people, they are coming)" which was also used by Jayaprakash Narayan to attract and encourage lakhs of people at the Ramlila Maidan in Delhi during the Emergency. The BJP has again fielded Irani from Amethi in the upcoming general election. In the last Lok Sabha polls, she challenged Rahul Gandhi in his bastion and was defeated by a margin of over one lakh votes. However, his victory was far less impressive than in most earlier Lok Sabha elections in Amethi. The Congress party's vote share was reduced to 46 per cent in 2014 as against the earlier figures of 71 per cent and 66 per cent in the 2009 and 2004 elections, respectively. The BJP, whose vote share in Amethi remained in the single digits in 2004, garnered 37 per cent of the votes cast in 2014. The seat has long been a stronghold of the Congress, which has not been defeated here in three decades -- barring in 1998, when the BJP's Sanjay Singh defeated Satish Sharma of the Congress by a margin of 23,270 votes. Amethi was regained by the Congress in 1999 when Sonia Gandhi was elected MP from there. New Delhi, March 23 : Union Minister Uma Bharti, who has decided not to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, was on Saturday appointed the BJP's national Vice President. "Uma Bharti ji had expressed her wish to not contest election and to work for the organization. BJP President has appointed her as the national Vice President of the party," Union Minister J.P. Nadda told reporters. Uma Bharti, who represents Jhansi in the Lok Sabha, had earlier conveyed to the BJP leadership her wish to not contest the elections. After the party formally announced her new responsibility, Uma Bharti said she will campaign for the party till the Lok Sabha polls and then focus on works assigned by the party besides concentrating on her works for river Ganga. "I am happy that party respected my feelings. I will try my best to be an efficient and able worker of the party under Amit Shah," she tweeted. Union Minister Sushma Swaraj had also expressed her wish to refrain from contesting the Lok Sabha elections on grounds of ill-health. The BJP on Saturday released first list of 15 candidates from Madhya Pradesh but didn't announce who will be its candidate from Vidisha, the seat represented by Sushma Swaraj. Los Angeles, March 24 : Reality TV personality Kylie Jenner and her beau and rapper Travis Scott are planning a family trip to focus on their relationship. The pair want a "family trip with no distractions", reports tmz.com. Scott was recently forced to deny claims he had cheated on Kylie, after he axed one of his tour dates due to illness. His representative said: "Travis Scott vehemently denies he cheated on Kylie. It is not true. He did not cheat. He cancelled one show tonight because he is under the weather." Sources close to the pair previously said that Kylie had been having a "rough week" after her former best friend Jordyn Woods was accused of hooking up with Khloe Kardashian's ex-partner Tristan Thompson and she then had an "argument" with Scott. Bengaluru, March 24 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday decided to support multi-lingual actress Sumalatha Ambareesh, who is contesting the Mandya Lok Sabha constituency in south Karnataka as an Independent candidate, instead of fielding its own nominee. "Of the 48 names cleared for contesting in the upcoming general elections, the party's Central Election Committee has decided to support Sumalatha in Mandya and field S. Muniswamy from the Kolar (SC) constituency in the southern state," an official of the party's state unit told IANS. This means the BJP would contest 27 of the 28 parliamentary seats in the state, including the five reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) and two for Scheduled Tribe (ST). Mandya will vote on April 18 along with 13 other seats in the state's central and southern regions in the first phase, while polling in the remaining 14 seats in the state's coastal and northern regions will be on April 23. Vote count for all the 28 seats is on May 23. Sumalatha, 55, filed her nomination from Mandya on March 20 as an Independent after the Congress conceded the seat to its ruling ally Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S), which is fielding Nikhil Gowda, the only son of state Chief Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy, and grandson of JD-S supremo and former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda. Sumalatha is the widow of Kannada rebel star and former Congress leader, lawmaker and Minister, M. H. Ambareesh, who was a three-time Lok Sabha MP from Mandya before becoming a legislator from the Srirangapatna assembly segment near Mysuru. Ambareesh passed away in Bengaluru on November 24, 2018 at the age of 66. "Sumalatha recently met our senior leader and former External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna and sought our party's support after the Congress declined to nominate her from Mandya. "The constituency was represented by JD-S minister C. Puttaraju, whose resignation in May 2018 necessitated the November 6 bye-election, in which JD-S candidate L. Shivaramae Gowda won against the BJP's Siddaramaiah," said the official quoted above. Mumbai, March 24 : Actress Sonam K. Ahuja will be walking for designer duo Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla for a fashion show by the Cancer Patients Aids Association (CPAA) to raise funds for cancer survivors here. She says she is a huge believer in using her voice to support social and health issues. "It is an honour and a privilege to be a part of this show. I am a huge believer in using my voice to support social and health issues. The CPAA does outstanding work in the field of providing holistic care to those affected by Cancer," Sonam said in a statement. The CPAA is completing 50 years on Sunday and to support it a fashion show is being organised. The 33-year-old actress said the battle against cancer must be won. "Battling Cancer is a most worthy fight and one which can and must be won. My every good wish for them as they complete 50 years of exceptional service to the cause," she added. Talking about walking for the designer duo, Sonam said: "I am delighted to walk for Abu and Sandeep. They are (my) favourites. Its always a pleasure to work with them and wear their fabulous clothes." Washington, March 24 : US Attorney General William Barr will not send his summary of special counsel Robert Mueller's report to Congress on Saturday, according to multiple media reports. Media reports were quoting a senior Justice Department official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorised to publicly discuss the review process, reports Xinhua. Mueller has wrapped up his inquiry into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election and possible coordination with US President Donald Trump's campaign by submitting a confidential report to Barr on Friday. Barr is reviewing Mueller's findings and said previously that he may provide Congress with the "principal conclusions" this weekend. 2019 Borrego Wellness Weekend: April 19-21, 2019 An all-inclusive desert retreat for healthful humans Highway West Vacations has announced its first annual Borrego Wellness Weekend for April 19 - 21, 2019. Health and nature enthusiasts will explore guided mindfulness and hiking in the blooming California desert, learn healthy cooking behavior, and enjoy daily yoga. The weekend begins on Friday, April 19 by settling in and unwinding next to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park at Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort or Borrego Valley Inn for guests who choose to stay on location for the weekend. Attendees will begin their retreat with an afternoon of outdoor yoga led by Paul Penners welcoming all skill levels to connect mind, body and spirit with nature. In the evening, Chef Mara Jaffe will welcome healthy appetites with a carefully curated dinner to set the tone for the weekend. On Saturday, April 20, guests will discover peace in a setting surrounded by wide-open spaces with morning yoga, followed by a guided hike in the wildflower blooming Anza-Borrego Desert. In the afternoon, a healthy conscious cooking class awaits where guests are encouraged to explore thoughtfully selected ingredients and techniques led by Chef Mara. The journey of spiritual well-being will continue with keynote speaker Stacey Cargnelutti where she will teach exploration in the practice of mindfulness and living in the present. The evening will conclude with a delectable meal under the starry desert sky. The following day, guests will begin their day with a morning yoga class followed by a naturally derived meal before exploring the Palm Canyon Trail for a guided hike. The retreat concludes with one last thoughtful meal by Chef Mara before returning home. All-inclusive packages start from $699 and include overnight accommodations at Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort or at Borrego Valley Inn. In addition to a two-night stay in peaceful accommodations, the package features six healthy meals personally prepared by Chef Mara Jaffe, three expertly led yoga sessions, two curated desert hikes, one hands-on educational cooking class, one keynote speaker on mindfulness, and all hotel amenities which include pools, hot tubs, laundry facilities and more. For those guests who are only interested in the retreat events, tickets without accommodations are available for $350 per person. For more information on the 2019 Borrego Wellness Weekend and to purchase tickets, please visit borregowellnessweekend.com. ERC's President and CEO, Marty Sarim (front), looks over plans for a new campus that will bring 1,000 new jobs to Santo Domingo. ERC announced the opening of a new campus in the Dominican Republics capital. Scheduled to open April 30, the 52,500 square-foot facility will reside in San Isidro Free Trade Park, one of the most modernized and successful free zones in the Caribbean, and home to 34 multinational companies. The new venture is set to bring 1,000 new jobs to the area and is another example of ERCs continued growth. This is an exciting time for us to double down. We have a high level of confidence in our local management team and have had tremendous success there over the past several years for our clients, said Marty Sarim, ERCs President and CEO. While working in the San Isidro Free Trade Park, ERC employees will have access to an impressive suite of amenities, including: a barber shop and beauty salon, daycare, an on-site hospital, 24/7 private security, access to public transportation, a cafeteria and even private study rooms for students. We want to always do right by our employees and make sure they have everything they need to be successful, added Sarim. This will be ERCs second campus in Santo Domingo. The new location will be approximately 30 minutes away from their current facility and strategically closer to the airport. With the citys ample labor pool and strong infrastructure, Santo Domingo has been an ideal location for ERC, and a key to their global vision. About ERC ERC is an agile, technology-driven company that provides business process outsourcing (BPO) and account recovery services for Fortune 500 companies. ERC leverages the latest innovations in technology while providing extraordinary workforce resources to deliver unparalleled end-toend customer experience solutions, making ERC a top performer for its clients. With offices spanning four continents and the best talent in the business, ERC is dedicated to changing the BPO landscape through its continued investment in artificial intelligence and data analysis, and its commitment to creating a highly trained, empowered workforce. https://www.ercbpo.com Im humbled by this award and grateful for the tremendous field and office staff we have at BrightStar Care Salt Lake City. While we have accomplished a lot, there is more work to do. BrightStar Care Salt Lake City announced today that its Director of Nursing, Deborah Parker, was awarded the Nurse of the Year for the West Region in the BrightStar Care network. The Nurse of the Year award results from hundreds of nominations that pour in from clients, referral sources, and owners for review by a team of judges. In a rigorous selection process, one finalist is selected for each of the four geographic regions across the entire BrightStar Care network of over 300 agencies across the United States. Ms. Parker was selected as one of those four finalists, representing the West region. The Nurse of the Year award is the highest honor a nurse can receive from BrightStar Care and recognizes the nurses who demonstrate the highest level of clinical excellence and compassion for our clients and employees, said Tammara Brown, Owner of BrightStar Care Salt Lake City. We couldnt be happier for Deborah and are so glad that shes being formally recognized for what we knew all along she is fantastic. Ms. Parker was nominated due to her outstanding accomplishments in 2018 including passing of the Joint Commission re-certification survey with flying colors resulting in a BrightStar Care award for clinical excellence; and the second year in a row for Leader in Excellence, Provider of Choice, and Employer of Choice awards from Home Care Pulse. These, plus many other accomplishments, are a direct reflection of the culture that Ms. Parker fosters with our field staff. Im humbled by this award and grateful for the tremendous field and office staff we have at BrightStar Care Salt Lake City. While we have accomplished a lot, there is more work to do, said Ms. Parker. Ms. Parker along with the other three regional Nurse of the Year finalists will be honored at BrightStar Cares annual Branch Leadership Conference in April 2019 and the national winner will be selected. To find out more about Deborah Parkers story as Director of Nursing and BrightStar Care Salt Lake Citys commitment to excellence, please visit http://www.brightstarcare.com/salt-lake-city-east or call 801-559-3999. About BrightStar Care Salt Lake City BrightStar Care Salt Lake City provides quality home care caregivers and medical staffing solutions to families and businesses in the Salt Lake City metro area. Its home care agency services include senior home and pediatric care, Alzheimers and dementia care, skilled nursing care, caregivers and childcare/nanny services, special needs care, infusion pharmacy services and more. For more information, please call (801) 559-3999, or visit http://www.brightstarcare.com/salt-lake-city-east Healthy Neighbors Fest returns to the West Shore Plaza in Lemoyne on Saturday, April 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. "We are proud to partner with some of Pennsylvanias strongest health advocates and fitness enthusiasts as we transform our retail plaza into a community health asset." Smith Land & Improvement Corporation announces the return of Healthy Neighbors Fest to the West Shore Plaza in Lemoyne on Saturday, April 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Nine health and fitness partners will be on-site offering free health screenings, tips for healthy living, fitness sessions, healthy food samples, games, and giveaways for every age. We are proud to partner with some of Pennsylvanias strongest health advocates and fitness enthusiasts as we transform our retail plaza into a community health asset, says Richard E. Jordan III, president and CEO of Smith Land & Improvement Corporation, owner of the West Shore Plaza. Weve been a shopping destination since 1954, and at 98% occupancy, we are proud to be home to small and women-owned businesses that have created strong brand experiences and deep neighborhood relationships. 2019 Healthy Neighbors Fest Community Health participants include: Girls on the Run Capital Area Healthy Kids Running Series UPMC Pinnacle The Peyton Walker Foundation Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank F2 Womens Self Defense PA Breast Cancer Coalition Thrive Fit Co. American Heart Association--Central PA SaraBozich.com Susquehanna Style BOB 94.9 New this year is a Fitness Park in the Goodwill Keystone Area parking lot with fun activities for children and adults featuring Thrive Fit Co., Just Plain Yoga Studio, Healthy Kids Running Series, Girls on the Run Capital Area, and F2 Womens Self Defense. A positive relationship with fitness is the key to sustainable health, and there is no better way to build one than by working with individuals and companies within the surrounding community to provide events like Healthy Neighbors Fest, says Ashley Mentzer, owner, Thrive Fit Co. We hope area residents will join us at Healthy Neighbors Fest and take a few minutes to learn CPR and how to use an AED (defibrillator). Providing community members with these lifesaving skills could be the difference between life and death when faced with a cardiac emergency. Working together, we are protecting hearts and saving lives. Were glad to be a part of this healthy initiative again this year, says Julie Walker, executive director, The Peyton Walker Foundation. Whether its stopping in at True Value to get free health screenings with UPMC Pinnacle, donating blood in the bloodmobile, learning self-defense tips, or trying a yoga session at the Fitness Park, together were taking steps to greater health, says Jordan III. Join the conversation online by following the hashtag #HealthyNeighborsFest, and learn more about this community event on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. ABOUT WEST SHORE PLAZA Celebrating 65 years of retail services to the community, this landmark center sits on two high-traffic corridors connecting Harrisburg to the West Shore. With an attractive facade, convenient parking, and a striking digital sign, the West Shore Plaza continues to maintain high shopper volume and be a recognized shopping destination. A treasured community asset, the 24-store property featuring local and national retailers, as well as family businesses, champions bringing people together with special events like the Wicked Spooky Party and Healthy Neighbors Fest. ABOUT SMITH LAND & IMPROVEMENT CORPORATION Founded in 1961, the company has a 56-year history of responsible and responsive commercial real estate development and land ownership. With a portfolio of nearly 50 properties and over 1 million SF throughout the Mid-Atlantic, the Smith Land team has chosen to concentrate 80 percent of its real estate investments in their own front yard of central Pennsylvania. When Smith Land & Improvement Corporation is the developer, business owners and tenants can expect a productive working relationship, high-caliber site selection, and easy access to business expansion. In Einsteins War (Dutton, May), Stanley discusses how, during WWI, Einstein and his theory of general relativity came under suspicion, both in his native Germany for his antiwar ideals and in Britain for his German citizenship. How has this book changed over the two decades that youve been working on it? It started as a fairly dry history of ideaswho thought of what, when. But I gradually realized how important the social, political, and cultural aspects of the story were. You cant tell the story of relativity without including pacifism and nationalism; you cant understand how Einstein became the icon of genius without talking about the British boycott of German science. Can you expand on your statement that how we think about science, how we link it to the other parts of our lives, changes the way science is done? No one is surprised to hear that the personal experiences and beliefs of an artist or musician affects their work. But people are often uncomfortable thinking about the same thing happening with scientists. Scientists, though, are just as human as any artist. They have to make decisions about what topics to study, how to approach those problems, who to work with, and how to justify their conclusions. The story of relativity shows how dependent science is on personal choices and personalitiesif Archduke Ferdinand had had a better driver, or if Einstein hadnt made friends with some Dutch scientists, relativity would be completely different. How else is science misunderstood? Science is not a plodding, purely rational step-by-step processit is a dynamic, human enterprise that is deeply reliant on politics, religion, creativity, and friendship. A standard way of justifying the importance and power of science is to claim that it is completely different from other human endeavors. If we imagine that science is purely objective, then it gains a privileged position in our society. Science really does help us understand the world and produce amazing achievements, but it requires creativity and personal connections along with rational analysis and mathematics. Scientists arent any less human than the rest of us; the trick is to understand how that humanity is essential to the way science works. How does that connect to the current atmosphere of hostility to science in certain quarters? When people are taught that science is perfect and always objective, and then they see that it is not, their confidence in the whole enterprise is threatened. Insisting on scientific certainty creates a kind of fragilityit is not hard to see that scientists are human and act like it, and if that is not what you expect, then your ideals will be easily shaken. We are better off with an accurate picture of science, even if that sacrifices some of its authority as transcendental truth. In Savage Appetites (Scribner, Aug. 2019), journalist Rachel Monroe examines why so many women find stories of true crime alluring, through the experiences of four individuals, each of whose lives were affected by crime. What drove you to write about the fascination that women, specifically, have with true crime? If you think of it in a demographic way, the world of violent crime is very male, but the true crime genre has a female audience. I became curious about what that stems from, but the answers I found seemed a little shallow. Those answers treat it as a singular phenomenon, in which we all have the same motivations. Some said, Well, women like it, so it must be feminist. That felt reductive and unsatisfying. I wanted to consider it more thoughtfullyin terms of the things I think are compelling and the things that trouble me about my own interest. Why did you choose the four women you profile as your way into the true crime phenomenon? They were so different from each other. Each was drawn to a different archetypal figure in the true crime narrativedetective, victim, lawyer, or killer. Treating womens fascination with crime as this one phenomenon seemed wrong to me; the idea that women fear becoming victims is such a limited way of thinking about it. Crime stories are a way for women to articulate real feelings of vulnerability or to talk about things such as rage or injustice that maybe we arent allowed space for in our daily lives. Part of the reason theyre so compelling is because, to find these stories so fascinating, you have to be vulnerable and you have to have the privilege of safety. It makes sense that were having the true crime boom when the violent crime rate is at historic lows. You have to be both vulnerable and safe, and a lot of women I know who are interested in these stories are both of those things. What role did crime play in the lives of the women you write about? Frances Glessner Lee made crime scene doll houses in the 1940s and was crucial to the development of forensic science. Alisa Statman was drawn into Sharon Tates family after the Manson murders. Lorri Davis became involved with a member of the West Texas Three and married him; she worked tirelessly to get him out and served as his lawyer in a lot of ways, even though she wasnt trained. Lindsay Souvannarath identified with the Columbine shooters; she became involved in the online fandom as a way to manifest her own rage at the world and sense of inferiority, and ended up planning a mass shooting of her own. A lot of discussion about true crime centers on the moral boundaries of the genre. What are your thoughts? We can slip into these tropes that reaffirm old, familiar story lines about bad guys and good guys, that dont linger in that moral gray areathings are oversimplified and reassuring. Am I using these stories for escapism or to think about the world and its complicated questions? Am I using them to turn my brain on or turn my brain off? I came to feel while writing this book that I needed to be really honest about how I consume true crime. I noticed I was using these stories as a form of escapism or numbing. Thats when things become problematic. Return to the main feature. Deal of the Week: Europa Signs a Japanese Literary Star Europa Editions editor Eva Ferri landed North American rights to three novels by Japanese writer Mieko Kawakami, who was selected in 2017 as one of the most exciting global talents in John Freemans Future of New Writing. Amanda Urban and Amelia Atlas at ICM Partners brokered the deal. Haruki Murakami said that the first title, Breast and Eggs (which has sold more than 250,000 copies in Japan), is so amazing it took my breath away. In the novel, which will be released in the U.S. in 2020, Kawakami explores womanhood in contemporary Japan, and, in particular, asks, What does it look like for a woman to have a child outside the framework of heterosexual partnership? Ferri also acquired Italian rights to the trio for Edizioni E/O. U.K. and Commonwealth rights to the three novels were won by Picador in a five-way auction. FROM THE U.S. Hoover Jumps to Montlake Romance For a rumored six figures, Montlake editorial director Anh Schluep snagged Colleen Hoover in a two-book deal for world English rights brokered by Jane Dystel at Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. First up is Regretting You, due in fall 2019. Montlake is thrilled to work with Colleen Hoover, Schluep said. Her novels deeply connect with readers, winning the Goodreads Choice Award in Romance three years in a row. Hoover has been published by Atria. Hanover Square Snares a Killer Debut In a two-book deal, editor John Glynn preempted North American rights to The Jigsaw Man by Nadine Matheson. The deal was announced last week from the London Book Fair by HarperCollinss HQ imprint, where editorial director Manpreet Grewal won a six-publisher auction of Jigsaw for U.K. and Commonwealth rights (excluding Canada). Oli Munson at AM Heath negotiated both deals. Glynn called this serial-killer crime novel an addictive page-turner, adding, The Jigsaw Man elevates the genre with inventive storytelling, complex characters, and an urgent layer of procedural authenticity. Abrams Preempts The Suspect Abramss Garrett McGrath preempted The Suspect: An Olympic Bombing, the FBI, the Media, and Richard Jewell, the Man Caught in the Middle by former U.S. attorney Kent Alexander and Kevin Salwen, a former Wall Street Journal reporter and editor. Drawing on interviews with more than 150 sources and 90,000 pages of documents, the authors dig into the story of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics bombing and Richard Jewell, a security guard whose quick thinking saved hundreds of lives, but who became the FBIs main suspect. Sarah Smith at David Black Literary Agency sold the North American rights, and film rights have been optioned to Twentieth Century Fox, 75 Year Plan, Appian Way, and Misher Films. Debut by Award-winning Cartoonist to Boom! In another preempt, Boom! executive editor Sierra Hahn and president of publishing and marketing Filip Sablik snagged The Man Who Came Down the Attic Stairs by Celine Loup, an illustrator and Ignatz Awardnominated cartoonist whose work has appeared in the New York Times and the New Yorker. Due this fall, the tale of horror and suspense explores the very real fears associated with new motherhood, said the publisher. Meredith Kaffel Simonoff of DeFiore & Company Literary Management negotiated the deal for world English rights. Teen Feminist Guide to Norton Norton Young Readers publishing director Simon Boughton picked up North American rights from Tanya McKinnon of McKinnon McIntyre to Feminist AF: A Guide to Crushing Girlhood by the founding members of Crunk Feminist Collective, Brittney Cooper, Chanel Craft Tanner, and Susana Morris. Due for release in summer 2020the 10th anniversary of the founding of the collectivethe book is a guide for teen girls who want to be unapologetically feminist and living their feminism out loud, said the publisher. Quinoness Follow-up to Bloomsbury Bloomsburys Anton Mueller has acquired world rights to NBCC Awardwinner Sam Quinoness as-yet-untitled follow-up to the acclaimed Dreamland: The True Tale of Americas Opiate Epidemic. Planned for an early 2020 release, it is an exploration of fentanyl and the quiet but groundbreaking steps communities across the nation are taking to end the opioid crisis. Quinones was represented by Stephany Evans at Ayesha Pande Literary. St. Martins executive editor Michael Flamini won at auction Sinclair McKays The Fire and the Darkness: The Bombing of Dresden, 1945, a minute-by-minute account of the devastating aerial bombardment of the German city of Dresden during the final days of WWII. The book is set for publication in February 2020, the 75th anniversary of the bombing. McKay, a literary critic for the Spectator and the Telegraph and author of The Secret Lives of Codebreakers, mined newly opened archives and other sources to take the reader into the heart of the inferno, detailing how the Allies rained fire down on what was left of the city, conjuring a phenomenon of physics that turned the streets into a blast furnace, the shelters into ovens and whipped up a molten hurricane in which the citizens of Dresden were burned, baked, or suffocated to death, said the publisher. Readers will come to know such civilians as Margot Hille, an apprentice brewery worker, and Anita Auerbach, a waitress in the White Riband Cafe, and, of course, the Nazi officers who were in command of Dresden at the time. The North American rights deal was brokered by Sarah Scarlett at Penguin Random House UK. MOVIE DEALS Jennifer Phangs Good Neighbors Media bought film and television rights to Todd Mitchells upcoming YA novel, The Naming Girl, a steampunk fairy tale. Mitchell is repped by Curtis Brown Ltd. In an exclusive submission, Del Rey editorial director Tricia Narwani scooped up North American rights to Josh Malermans Malorie, the sequel to Bird Box, which was adapted into a Netflix film that has been streamed more than 80 million times. Malerman was shortlisted for a 2018 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a Novel for his last work, Unbury Carol. INTERNATIONAL DEALS In the U.K., HarperFictions editorial director, Martha Ashby, preempted The Book of Keys, a debut novel by Holly Dawson, The Bookseller reported.The book is inspired by a situation that Dawson, a freelance writer, tweeted about in October: Just heard about a guy who died in my village left 3 houses to the council, with the stipulation that theyre for young families to rent for a fixed period of 3yrs with rent of 300 pcm (in an area where rent is 1000+). Because we all need to talk more about the good humans. The tweet went viral, and the BBC verified the story in a subsequent article, according to the publisher. Jenny Hewson at Rogers, Coleridge and White negotiated the deal for world English rights. For more childrens and YA book deals, see our latest Rights Report. Correction: This article has been updated to reflect the correct pub date for Regretting You. TV5MONDE USA will broadcast the world television premiere of the Create Louisiana Grant-winning documentary, On Va Continuer, on 23 March. On Va Continuer is the story of passionate dedication to the preservation of Louisiana Cajun French culture and ancestral knowledge through the tale of Louis Michot, a man whose life revolves around the culture he loves so deeply. From his lively on-stage presence in his Cajun rock band Lost Bayou Ramblers, through his life on the bayous and prairies of Louisiana, to the home he built with his own hands, Louis is a modern-day champion set on breathing life into a culture's "dying" language using the one form of communication understood by all: music.The documentary feature film was the winner of the TV5MONDE USA-sponsored French Culture Film Grant programme , designed to support films that showcase both Francophone culture and the talents of Louisiana filmmakers. On Va Continuer! received this years grant (chosen from multiple finalists) in addition to the honour of a USA broadcast premiere on TV5MONDE USA network.TV5MONDE USA and Create Louisiana have chosen a documentary that highlights Louisianas unmistakable, sound and culture, said the network Charged with expanding operations and driving business development, cloud-based video supply chain developer Ownzones has named Robert Cloudt as its new chief commercial officer. In his role which will be effective from 1 April 2019, Cloudt will be responsible for business development and sales within the EMEA and APAC markets, along with the setup and build-out of an Amsterdam office to service the needs of existing and new customers across the regions.Cloudt joins Ownzones from Metrological Group in the Netherlands where he served as the senior vice president of content management and strategy. In this role he was globally responsible for business development focused on premium global OTT partnerships across broadcasters VOD publishing and digital first companies. Prior to that, Cloudt was the director of business development for Philips TV focusing on developing and expanding its smart TV ecosystem . He worked with Phillips TV for six years in a variety of digital TV interactive TV product and marketing roles.Over the course of my career Ive had the opportunity to work with all the different disciplines and practice ranging, from technical to business development and sales, closing premium partnerships and deals with all the leading players in the OTT space , and Im excited to bring my experience to Ownzones, Cloudt remarked. Ownzones is a real pioneer in the media logistics industry and is a front-runner with their cloud-native platform. I see a huge growth path ahead and Im determined to make that growth a big success moving forward. WASHINGTON The Defense Department's inspector general said on Wednesday that it was investigating complaints that the acting defense secretary, Patrick M. Shanahan, had been promoting his former employer, Boeing, and disparaging its military contractor competitors. The investigation will examine complaints filed last week by a watchdog group, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. Dwrena K. Allen, a spokeswoman for the inspector general's office, said that investigators had informed Mr. Shanahan of the inquiry. Mr. Shanahan told lawmakers last week that he supported an investigation. This article appeared originally at European Security & Defense The global rollout of 5G, the replacement for the existing 4G mobile communications network, will cost service providers the enormous sum of $325 billion by 2025. Millions of dollars have already been spent to tout the benefits 5G will deliver to individual and commercial users, but little attention is paid to the role of 5G in the future world of defense and national security. Glimpses of that future are beginning to been seen through the smoke of the conflict between the United States and Huawei, the telecommunications giant created by communist China to dominate manufacturing and implementation of 5G networks. A Keystone of Future Technology Many see 5G as an incremental step in the technical evolution of mobile communications, but its speed and ability to carry much more data, its lower latency (network response time) and its greater stability will fundamentally transform mobile digital communications. 5G data is transmitted at10 gigabytes per second, and latency is less than a millisecond, a hundred times faster than 4G. These attributes will connect multiple sensors and allow unmanned air, sea, subsurface and ground vehicles to become effectively autonomous. Significantly, 5G will also greatly enhance connectivity in the future internet of things (IoT). Internet of things involves close-range telecommunications technology to connect and exchange information between two devices, and 5G is the fastest data transmission method to realise it, said Zhou Zhaoxiong, an engineer at China Mobile IoT Company. He added that military equipment embedded with communication devices can also form an internet of things. With 5G, communication is possible from device to device and platform to platform, without needing satellites or communications relay aircraft. Because of such capabilities, 5G will become a keystone of future military technology. Machine-to-Machine Communication No one describes how 5G would operate in battlespace more dramatically than Liu Zhen, who wrote in the South China Morning Post in January: Imagine a group of skirmishers in a jungle. They are moving forward speedily with a distance from one another of a few hundred metres. Each of them wears a wristwatch that displays fellow members positions. This is not satellite positioning, because reception in the tropical forest is unstable; its machine-to-machine communication. Suddenly one soldier, ambushed by an enemy combatant, is shot and loses consciousness. His smart wearable device detects his condition via sensors, immediately tightens a belt around his wounded thigh, injects an adrenaline shot and sends an emergency alert to the field hospital as well as the entire team. Having received the signal on their wristwatches, the team switch to a coordinated combat formation and encircle the enemy. An ambulance helicopter arrives to evacuate the injured soldier while auto-driven armoured vehicles come to reinforce guided by devices on each soldier and antenna arrays nearby. Artificial Intelligence Or, imagine a street battle with a group of terrorists in a city. There is a power blackout and terrorists hide in an empty office building. A counterterrorism technician hacks into the buildings audio control system and collects high-sensitivity soundwaves using the microphones on surveillance cameras the system is still running thanks to the devices low power consumption and long endurance. After the acoustic data is sent back, artificial intelligence (AI) analysis determines the locations of the terrorists. A drone is called from nearby, enters through a window and fires a mini-gun at them. These are not movie plots, but technologies already or about to be developed, as the internet of things built on 5G and AI technologies reshapes warfare. In her article, Liu Zhen quotes Dr. Clark Shu, AI and telecommunications researcher at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China as saying, The 5G network and the internet of things (IoT) enlarge and deepen the cognition of situations in the battlefield by several orders of magnitude and produce gigantic amounts of data, requiring Artificial Intelligence (AI) to analyse and even issue commands. Dr. Shu is correct, of course, and since the United States is a world leader in the AI sector we are beginning to see IoT scenarios develop. At sea, the U.S. Navy designing and building small armed unmanned autonomous ships. Under the ocean, DARPA and other defense agencies are experimenting with autonomous drone swarms, and in the U.S. Air Force has demonstrated deployment of a swarm of autonomous drones from a fighter aircraft. AI is critical in all of these scenarios because of the extremely high data rate and the need for rapid analyses and commands. Battlespace Scenarios With the advent of 5G technology and advanced AI, it is possible to envision other scenarios in battlespace. For example: The captain of an aircraft carrier is advised an unidentified submarine is in his vicinity just as the Combat Information Center reports detection of a torpedo racing toward the carrier. The captain launches missiles that splash down between the carrier and the torpedo that release swarms of autonomous underwater vehicles (UUVs) that form barriers to intercept and destroy the inbound torpedo. Ashore, a long range ASW patrol plane takes off to drop canisters at the approximate location of the submarine. They release dozens of explosive UUVs that hunt the submarine for days. That night the captain is notified of a missile launched from an island 100 miles distant that is on a high arcing course toward the carrier. An aircraft is launched that climbs to altitude and releases a cloud of drones that form a barrier above the carrier that follows it as it evasively maneuvers below. The incoming missile is deflected and falls into the sea. An Aegis missile defense radar near Hawaii reports an ICBM heading toward the west coast of the United States. A ground-based interceptor missile is launched and, instead of attempting to hit the incoming warhead in midcourse, releases a swarm of maneuvering satellites in near space that form a shield on the warheads course that intercepts and destroys it. These science fiction scenarios in battlespace will be made a reality by 5G, IoT, and AI, and the Peoples Republic of China and Huawei have a deep, detailed, and long time awareness of that reality. In fact, China already aggressively markets armed autonomous drones. A Digital Silk Road While most nations in the west view 5G as a valuable extension of 4G, China sees 5G technology as an adjunct to its belt-and-road initiative (BRI). The BRI is Chinas international infrastructure project designed to expand Beijings interests on a global scale and make China the worlds leading economic power by 2049, the 100th anniversary of the founding of that communist country. Implementing 5G to be part of the BRI is called the Digital Silk Road, Beijings plan to deploy Chinese 5G systems in every country that is now part of that initiative. As part of the digital road, China is also finishing installation of the Big Dipper precision navigation system. It is designed to replace the American GPS system. When the digital road is completed, the BRI will enable Chinas 5G, AI and precision navigation systems to monitor and dominate the IoT, digital communications, and commercial and political developments in every nation in the BRI. The initiative will become Chinas global version of the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Beijing has made it very clear that its economic plans are integrated with its national security plans. In October 2017, at the 19th Congress of the Communist Party of China, President Xi Jinping incorporated his new ideology into the Chinese Constitution. That ideology includes economic initiatives like the belt-and-road project as well as a powerful military to defend territorial claims in the South China Sea. That means the BRI and 5G system are projects of the Communist Party, and indicates how important they are to the communist leadership and its intention to become the leader of a new international order. A New International Order In view of the long history of 5G, the BRI, and Chinese military territorial aggression in the South China Sea, it is disingenuous for any communist official in China to differentiate between a Chinese company like Huawei and the Chinese government. That notion founders on the fact that China has a centrally managed economy like every communist nation, and Huawei is too important to be an independent company. This fact was recognized by the United States as early as 2012, when the U.S. House Intelligence Committee released a report stating that Chinese telecoms equipment makers like Huawei and ZTE posed a threat to Americas national security because of their close relationship with Chinas government. In fact, Chinas 2017 National Intelligence Law requires Chinese companies to cooperate with the government on issues that affect national intelligence matters. Since then, U.S. resistance to Chinese telecom and computer products was conducted quietly, primarily by government agencies like the CIA, FBI, NSA, and the Defense Department. Those agencies do not allow use of computers or digital communications devices that are manufactured in whole or in part by China, or that contain Chinese components. In a congressional hearing last February, intelligence officials, including heads of the CIA, FBI, NSA, and the Director of National Intelligence, stated that they would not advise American citizens to buy Huawei devices or services. Weaponised Cities Subsequently, Bloomberg News acquired a memo by retired Air Force Brigadier General Robert Spalding that noted, The more connected we are, and 5G will make us the most connected by far, the more vulnerable we become. Spalding, who retired after serving on the the National Security Council last year, wrote that once China controls the IoT in America, it will be able to weaponize cities, adding, Think of self-driving cars that suddenly mow down unsuspecting pedestrians. Think of drones that fly into the intakes of airliners. Nevertheless, Spaldings initial NSC plan to ban Chinese telecom equipment was resisted by the U.S. wireless industry. Then came the disruptive pivot to Asia by the Trump administration and the arrest in December 2018 of a senior Huawei executive, chief financial officer Ms. Meng Wanzhou, by Canadian authorities at the request of the United States. Criminal Indictments The U.S. case against Huewei was revealed in criminal indictments that lay out 23 charges alleging that Huawei violated sanctions and stole intellectual property while engaging in a pattern of lies to U.S. authorities and business partners for more than a decade. Prosecutors also alleged that Huawei gave bonuses to employees who stole the most valuable information and posted it on an internal website. Besides the legal battle, Washington is ramping up an international effort to curtail sales of telecom products of Huawei, the worlds largest manufacturer of network infrastructure, the #2 maker of smart phones after Samsung, and the major player in the implementation of 5G networks. Even in the midst of complex trade negotiations with Beijing, the campaign has been remarkably successful. For example: Five Eyes, the intelligence alliance of the U.S., Britain, Australia, Canada and New Zealand, has joined forces with Japan, Germany and France in an agreement to step up countermeasures to cyberattacks by countries like China. Like Australia and New Zealand, all have banned Huawei products or are reviewing whether to do so. The Japanese government has ended procurement of all Chinese telecom products. Britains Vodaphone, the worlds biggest mobile service provider outside China, is halting purchase of Huawei components. Germanys Deutsche Telecom is debating whether to restrict Huawei from its 5G network, and Frances Orange said it would not have Huawei build its 5G network. Canada is studying security risks of 5G networks despite threats from Chinas ambassador, and even after a Chinese court retried a Canadian who had already been jailed for drug smuggling and sentenced him to death. Richard Fadden, former head of Canadas Security Intelligence Service from 2009 to 2013, said there was mounting evidence for blocking Huawei. The Czech Republic Tax Office has banned Huawei products after Czech cybersecurity officials warned for years that Huawei equipment and software could be used to collect data on Czech citizens. Norways intelligence service is saying that Huaweis close ties with Chinas government sparks security concerns and they are exploring ways to limit exposure. Polish authorities arrested a former Polish security official and a Huawei sales director and charged them with spying for China. Warsaw will prohibit Huawei from it 5G network and is asking its NATO allies to join the ban. The Trump administrations message is that China poses a direct threat to the United States national interest economically and militarily. Other nations will soon recognize the security threats posed by 5G systems built by China. It will happen when they realize that the dragon waiting in the digital shadows is Chinas plan for battlespace dominance. A mindblowing haul of fossils that captures the riot of evolution that kickstarted the diversity of life on Earth more than half a billion years ago has been discovered by researchers in China. Paleontologists found thousands of fossils in rocks on the bank of the Danshui river in Hubei province in southern China, where primitive forms of jellyfish, sponges, algae, anemones, worms and arthropods with thin whip-like feelers were entombed in an ancient underwater mudslide. 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 FR Eurojust held the first coordination meeting with West African countries on 21 and 22 March to discuss the judicial follow-up to four terrorist attacks. The attacks took place on 7 March and 20 November 2015 in Bamako (Mali), on 15 January 2016 in Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso), and on 13 March 2016 in Grand Bassam (Ivory Coast), with 74 people killed and many others injured. The meeting was organised at the request of France and gathered, apart from the French judicial authorities, judicial representatives from Mali, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast, as well as other EU Member States and third countries that were affected by the attacks. Representatives from Europol and INTERPOL also participated. This coordination meeting at Eurojust was the first of its kind with West African countries regarding terrorist attacks. As indicated by the French counter-terrorism Investigating Judge, Mr David De Pas, the focus was not only on exchanging operational information on ongoing investigations, but also on sharing information on victims and taking stock of the current terrorist threat in the West African region. The judicial enquiries on terrorism cases rely on efficient multilateral cooperation. As stated by the prosecutor of Abidjan, Mr Richard Christophe Adou: 'If we want to successfully combat a network, we have to work together as a network'. Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. Founded by two cancer survivors, the annual In Their Shoes 10k Run/Walk helps raise money for the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support while also providing hope and support for both victims and their families. The 13th annual In Their Shoes 10K Run/Walk will be hosted by the Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center on March 23. Registration for the event will begin at 6:30 a.m. and the days activities will finish at 11:30 a.m. An award ceremony will begin at 9:30 a.m. It's hard to imagine with all her success, Billie Eilish has only just this year released her first studio album. Although, I guess we should While the University of Georgia owns campuses across the world, none of them compare to Planet UGA-1785. Thanks in part to Roger Hunter, UGA is the first university with a planetary system nicknamed after it from its discovery during the Kepler Mission. Hunter, program manager for NASAs Small Spacecraft Technology Program, spoke about his work with NASA as well as the great potential of students in the UGA Small Satellite Research Laboratory at the Charter Lecture on March 20. Pledge of Support Enables Red Cross to Prepare for and Respond to Disasters Lafayette, Louisiana [March 22, 2019] Today the American Red Cross is recognizing Lafayette, La.-based LHC Group for its support of Red Cross Disaster Relief through the Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP). Thanks to forward-thinking contributions in advance of disasters, the Red Cross is prepared to help meet the needs of people affected by disasters big and small, anytime and anywhere across the U.S. ADGP members along with their employees and customers pledge financial and in-kind donations in advance of disasters, powering the Red Cross with strong infrastructure, trained volunteers, innovative technology, and critical resources necessary to provide relief and support to those in crisis. These annual contributions allow the Red Cross to respond whenever and wherever disasters occur, help families during the recovery process and prepare people for future emergencies. Every day, people turn to the American Red Cross for help in the face of disasters, said Cliff Holtz, chief operating officer at the American Red Cross. We are extremely grateful for ADGP members like LHC Group, because no matter where the emergency occurs, or how large the disaster is, their contribution ensures that we are immediately on the ground to help people in need. We are immensely proud to work with a partner like the American Red Cross an organization as devoted as we are to humanitarian causes and to the health and well-being of families and communities everywhere, said Keith Myers, LHC Group chairman and CEO. The Red Cross is one of the most recognizable organizations in the world, and their culture of service to others aligns perfectly with LHC Groups mission and values. While large disasters like hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and wildfires typically draw national attention, each year, the Red Cross responds to more than 62,000 disasters across the country the majority of which are home fires. Generous contributions from ADGP members enable the Red Cross to provide services to people in need of assistance at no cost and regardless of income. And thanks to ADGP members, Red Cross volunteers are also in their local communities every day, conducting disaster preparedness presentations and giving people the reassurance and confidence to face crises of all kinds. About LHC Group, Inc. LHC Group, Inc. is a national provider of in-home healthcare services and innovations, providing quality, value-based healthcare to patients primarily within the comfort and privacy of their home or place of residence. LHC Groups services cover a wide range of healthcare needs for patients and families dealing with illness, injury, or chronic conditions. The companys 32,000 employees deliver home health, hospice, home and community based services, and facility-based care in 35 states reaching 60 percent of the U.S. population aged 65 and older. LHC Group is the preferred in-home healthcare partner for 340 leading hospitals around the country. For more information, please visit LHCgroup.com. Barely a month after breaking covers, the models -- the Jawa, the Jawa 42 and the Perak -- were sold out, reports Shally Seth Mohile. IMAGE: (From left) The Jawa and the Jawa 42. Photograph: Kind courtesy jawamotorcycles.com Hironmoy Chatterjee, 83, reminisces about his Jawa fondly. "It was like riding a horse. "It would go on and on," says the Kolkata-based octogenarian, who owned the iconic bike in the 1960s. At Rs 3,600, the price tag was a princely sum back then, and he had to borrow from friends and family to buy it. Chatterjee worked at the Bhilai Steel Plant in Madhya Pradesh, but he would often ride his bike to Nagpur -- 250 km each way -- just to meet friends. There is a fair chance that anyone who ever owned a Jawa, regardless of their age, will have a similar story, even though the brand went into oblivion nearly 40 years ago in the country. This is the lingering memory on which Classic Legends, majority owned by Mahindra and Mahindra, is riding as it seeks to revive the brand. It believes stories of the past and those that will be shared by future owners of Jawa are what will resurrect the brand. "We are storytellers," says Anupam Thareja, founder and managing partner of Phi Capital, who is an investor, along with Boman Irani, chairman and managing director of Rustomjee group, in Classic Legends. "We are a high-involvement, emotive automotive brand. "It has to be built on stories, therefore our focus will be user-created content," says he. IMAGE: The Jawa 42. Photograph: Kind courtesy jawamotorcycles.com If the initial euphoria around Jawa's comeback is any indication, the company has hit bulls eye. Barely a month after breaking covers, the models -- the Jawa, the Jawa 42 and the Perak -- were sold out. In December last year, Classic Legends announced the models are booked till September 2019. The initial estimates show the three-year-old firm has garnered bookings in excess of 100,000 units. The deliveries will begin some time later this month. But it is just the start of the journey. Classic Legends now has to deliver the brand promise, and the criticality of living up to the commitment is not lost on Thareja, the founder of Classic Legends. He and his team have been living out of their back-packs, opening five to six dealerships a day to ensure the tally crosses 100 by the time the delivery of the models starts. The number currently stands at 86. "When you buy a brand, it should be about a product that delivers its promise to the consumers," says the venture capitalist-turned-entrepreneur. With prices starting from Rs 1.55 lakh onwards, Jawa Motorcycles are positioned in the so-called middle segment (250cc to 750cc), which accounts for 5 per cent of the motorcycle market in India but is expected to grow at a brisk pace. So far, the segment has been the stronghold of Royal Enfield, which is credited for creating this category. In calendar year 2018, close to 860,000 units were sold in the mid-segment, according to sales forecast and market research firm Emerging Markets Automotive Advisory or EMAA, and it is expected to touch 1.2 million units by 2023. Encouraged by the success of Royal Enfield, several others including Harley Davidson, Triumph, and BMW Motorrad are gunning for a pie in the segment. While BMW Motorrad and Triumph have agreements with homegrown brands TVS Motor and Bajaj Auto, respectively, Harley Davidson plans to develop an India-specific model to address the segment. But even though the market appears to be growing crowded, there will be enough for all the brands given the minor differentiated positioning each will have, says Deepesh Rathor, managing director and co-founder at EMAA. IMAGE: The Jawa. Photograph: Kind courtesy jawamotorcycles.com "For now, everything seems to be working for Jawa Motorcycle. "They have the deep pockets and the backing of Mahindra. "They have a brand which is fondly remembered in parts of India. "The product reviews have been very positive," says Rathor. The only challenge, he points out, is production which is related to the ability of the suppliers to ramp up quickly. It's critical that it happens fast as people are waiting for the bikes to be delivered. "They will have to overcome production quickly as buyers of premium products don't like to wait," he adds. EMAA forecasts that Jawa will deliver close to 45,000 units by the end of the current calendar year. Thareja wouldn't disclose the number of bookings, but says a lot of work went behind the scenes to make the brand a success. "The overnight success," he says, "hasn't come easy and comes on the back of years of hard work and toil." From buying the brand to making the team and defining the design language, all of it was based on extensive market research. Given the importance of design in today's day and age, the design team comprised motley group of people--an architect, a media personality, a TV personality, a watch designer, he says. "Everyone who had a nose for good things in life and was an expert in their field came in and lot of thought went into every aspect, from the fuel cap to chrome and choice of colour. "It was a design-led project with humungous engineering and support from a group like Mahindra," says Thareja. PIT STOPS October 25, 2016: Mahindra notifies exchanges regarding its newly formed subsidiary, Classic Legends Mahindra notifies exchanges regarding its newly formed subsidiary, Classic Legends November 15, 2018: Classic Legends commences booking of Jawa models Classic Legends commences booking of Jawa models December 26, 2018: Bookings close as models sold out till Sep 2019 Bookings close as models sold out till Sep 2019 March 2019: Start of delivery of models Start of delivery of models Current no. of dealerships: 86 Serendipity and paranoia are the operative words for Classic Legends, which owes its genesis to a lunch meeting between Anand Mahindra, chairman Mahindra Group, Pawan Goenka, managing director, M & M and Thareja. Mahindra was keen to re-enter the two-wheeler market after its initial bid failed. When Mahindra sought Thareja's views on what the company should be doing, Thareja said given Mahindra's brand heritage it should have been in a retro classic category that comprises brands like Harley and Royal Enfield. It should get Jawa. The rest, as they say, was history. Thareja bought Jawa and BSA and a new company called Classic Legends that would house the premium brands was floated. As the Jawa story moves forward, Classic Legends hopes it will resonate not only with potential owners but also with erstwhile owners like Chatterjee. After a meeting of banks on Friday on ways to make funds available immediately, a source in the know said lenders other than SBI and Punjab National Bank had not come on board so far to chip in with their funds. Photograph: Punit Paranjpe/Reuters. The lenders to Jet Airways are yet to come to an agreement on firming up a rescue package for the airline, which is left with a skeleton fleet. While State Bank of India, leader of the lenders consortium, is working overtime to arrange emergency funds, many other banks are resisting such a move. After a meeting of banks on Friday on ways to make funds available immediately, a source in the know said lenders other than SBI and Punjab National Bank had not come on board so far to chip in with their funds. A senior executive at SBI said, We have told the government that any rescue plan will have to meet our commercial objectives. In the last few days, it has become more complicated without airline partner Etihads participation. Etihad, which owns 24 per cent in the airline, offered to sell its stake in the ailing airline at Rs 150 a share to SBI on Tuesday. Indicating that a rescue plan is extremely tough at this stage, an official in the civil aviation ministry said one should be ready for a scenario without Jet Airways. At least in the near term, there is no sign of the airline reviving. Hence, we are preparing to redistribute and allocate airport slots held by Jet Airways, he said. Industry executives also suggested that SBI, which is planning to hold a majority stake in Jet, will find it very hard to get a buyer. Banks do not have a good track record of finding buyers for companies in which they have done debt-equity restructuring. That had prompted former SBI chairman Arundhati Bhattacharya to say that banks taking ownership doesnt work out unless they have an immediate plan to transfer ownership and a concrete plan about the roadmap of the company. Jet Airways, on the verge of a shutdown, has been promised an infusion of around Rs 1,500 crore by the lenders provided its chairman Naresh Goyal, who holds 51 per cent in the company, steps down. But that emergency infusion will be barely enough to save Jet, argued a person tracking the developments. Infusion of Rs 1,500 crore will just defer the grounding for two months or so, said an executive opposed to the plan of bankers rescuing the airline. Back of the envelope calculation shows Jet needs an immediate infusion of at least Rs 10,000 crore, said a banker involved in the process. The debt may be converted into equity, but what about the immediate payables and liabilities? he asked. Rs 8,000 crore was the debt as of December 2018; the balloon has certainly grown bigger, another banker said. Payments to vendors itself will amount to several billion dollars, he added. The fact that the airline is operating in losses will further add to the burden of the company, according to the executive. Bankers had drafted a rescue plan in February on the basis of Etihad participating in the rescue plan to the extent of its equity holding. With Etihad out of the picture, the earlier plan does not hold. Lenders in the consortium will need to get more details on the revised plan to take to their boards for approval, which can take time. Lenders are expecting SBI to take a decision on the package. This weekend will be crucial, said a public sector bank executive. Even if emergency funding comes from the lenders, attracting aviation professionals to manage the airline will be a challenge as the companys future is uncertain, according to an analyst. I have a safe job, replied a former airline executive (whose name is doing the rounds as bankers choice), when asked if he would like to manage the carrier. BONE OF CONTENTION The state government says Ola was using its existing cab aggregator licence to promote bike taxi services. The Karnataka government has banned the services of ride-hailing company Ola for six months in the state, after the state transport department found that the firm was operating bike taxis illegally. The order, issued by the department on March 18, said the licence granted to ANI Technologies (Olas parent company) had been suspended for six months, under the provisions of The Karnataka on Demand Transportation Technology Aggregators Rules, 2016. It added that the firm was using its existing cab aggregator licence to promote bike taxi services. After an investigation by the department confirmed this, the government seized some of its bike taxis, the notification added. The state government had sent the notice to Ola on February 15, to which the cab aggregator had replied on March 5. However, the government was not satisfied with the response and suspended the licence as a result. Ola is now barred from operating its aggregator service for any vehicle including cars, autos and bikes, according to the order. This notification is unfortunate, and we look forward to an opportunity to address these concerns directly with state officials, and thus find a solution for our driver-partners and millions of customers, Ola said. The decision comes at a time when the company is engaged in a fierce battle with US rival Uber, which is rapidly gaining market share in India. Ola said that it has been working closely with authorities, responding to queries, and also making proactive representations to the ministry. Despite other firms continuing to operate illegally, we halted our bike taxi experiment weeks ago, it said. The firm has raised $3.5 billion so far from global investors such as SoftBank, Accel and Tiger Global Management. Besides Ola, another start-up, Rapido -- which runs a bike taxi platform -- had come under the radar of the Karnataka transport department. Last month, it was reported that transport officials seized over 200 bike taxis that were being operated by various aggregators, as part of a week-long drive against running bike taxis illegally. Officials pretending to be customers had booked bike taxis through the aggregator platforms and caught the two-wheeler owners. Most of them were unaware they were violating the law but faced action. Earlier this week, Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) and Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) had announced a $300-million investment in Ola. As part of the agreement, the three firms would collaborate on developing unique fleet and mobility solutions, and building India-specific electric vehicles and infrastructure. Ola, which hosts more than 1.3 million driver partners on its platform, claims that its aim is to create over 2 million livelihood opportunities in the mobility ecosystem by 2022. 'They should have offered a ticket for his constituency to Advaniji's daughter Pratibha or son Jayant. But, of course, that is too much to expect.' IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi with L K Advani on the latter's 91st birthday, November 8, 2018. Photograph: @narendramodi/Twitter The irrepressible Shatrughan Sinha may have lost the Patna Saheb seat to Ravi Shankar Prasad. But is he sulking about it? Far from it! Sinha says the move was long due. "The only reason why I stayed on in the BJP in spite of repeated snubs is because of my loyalty," Sinha tells Subhash K Jha. "I had vowed I'd not move until I was told to. The time to make the move is now." Sinha says he is very happy to go. "Or perhaps, 'go' is not the right word. The situation may change. The BJP is fielding a dear friend of mine Ravi Shankar Prasad in my place from my constituency. But I will be contesting the election from my constituency only," he says. "Thanks to the love and support of the Bihar janata for years, I've always emerged victorious from there. Now we will know whom the public voted for -- the party or me. By the grace of God, I will win again from Patna," he adds. IMAGE: Shatrughan Sinha addresses the Opposition rally in Kolkata, January 19, 2018. Photograph: Photograph: PTI Photo "You can take away my seat, but you can't take away the love of my people from me," says Sinha. "Having said that, I must say I have no ill will towards Ravi Shankar Prasad. He is an old friend. And I wish him all the best. May the best man win." While bidding adieu to the Bharatiya Janata Party, Sinha reveals how he has suffered in silence as the current party high command disrespected senior BJP leaders. "Look at how they behaved with the very respected Mr Yashwant Sinha. Virtually pushed him out of the party. And now L K Advaniji who was sidelined for years has retired from elections at the same time when I've finally moved out of the BJP," he says. "The party could have shown some grace towards the great leader by offering a ticket for his electoral constituency to Advaniji's daughter Pratibha or son Jayant. But, of course, that is too much to expect." Sinha refuses to divulge the political party he is joining, but whispers suggest he has been chosen by the Congress. "Let the heat and dust settle down. In a few days you will know. At the moment I want to thank all the leaders of the Opposition -- Mamta Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal -- and my family friend Laloo Yadav for standing by me." Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah on Saturday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on Sam Pitroda's comments questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack, saying the opposition party has "insulted" martyrdom of soldiers and put a question mark on the nation's security. IMAGE: BJP national president Amit Shah addresses the media, in New Delhi. Photograph: Arun Sharma/PTI Photo Launching a fresh offensive against the Congress, Shah said the opposition party is known for its "vote bank" and "appeasement" politics during elections, but Gandhi should answer whether it is above national interest and if such politics can be done over the grief of families of soldiers killed. Speaking to the media, Shah said Congress leader Pitroda's remarks conveyed that the Pulwama terror attack was a "routine" incident carried out by a few people for which Pakistan cannot be blamed. Pitroda, he added, also questioned surgical strikes and air strikes launched by the Indian armed forces. "Does the Congress believe that terror incidents that happen in the country have nothing to do with the Pakistan government or Pakistan army?" Shah asked, seeking Gandhi's response. The BJP chief said the Congress has a habit of playing down such comments of its leaders as their individual opinions, but it never takes any action against them while, many of whom are close to Gandhi, he added. Pitroda, Indian Overseas Congress chief, had told media that one cannot "jump on entire nation" (Pakistan) just because some people from there "came here and attacked". In an apparent reference to the Pulwama terror attack, the Congress leader had said attacks happen all the time and then referred to the Mumbai terror strikes in 2008 when the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance was in power, saying the then government could have sent its planes but that is "not the right approach". Prime Minister Narendra Modi had Friday cited Pitroda's comments to launch an all out attack against the Congress on the issues of terrorism and national security. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has welcomed his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi's greetings on the eve of its National Day, saying time has come to begin a 'comprehensive dialogue' between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including the 'central issue' of Kashmir. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Khan, in a tweet, welcomed Modi's message and said the time has come to begin a comprehensive dialogue between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including Kashmir. 'I welcome PM Modi's message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people (sic),' Khan tweeted on Friday. India has made it clear to Pakistan that cross-border terror attacks and talks cannot go hand in hand. India last year called off a planned meeting of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi on the sidelines of the annual session of the UN General Assembly in New York after blaming Pakistan-based entities for killing of three special police officers in Kashmir. Earlier, Khan also tweeted Modi's message. 'Received msg from PM Modi: 'I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence',' Khan said. Modi's message to Khan came in the midst of severe strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the Pulwama attack and the subsequent air strikes by India on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot. Significantly, India Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi to mark Pakistan's National Day, objecting to invites extended to several separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir for the event. The official sources in New Delhi said the prime minister sends a customary message on National Days to other heads of state and government and added that his message to Khan highlighted the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the Pulwama attack on February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Every year on March 23, Pakistan celebrates its National Day commemorating the Lahore Resolution passed on March 23, 1940 and the adoption of the first constitution of Pakistan on March 23, 1956. The Islamic State has lost its last stronghold, Baghouz, in eastern Syria, the Syrian Democratic Forces announced on Saturday. IMAGE: Smoke rises from the last besieged neighbourhood in the village of Baghouz, Deir Al Zor province, Syria. Photograph: Stringer/Reuters "Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and 100 per cent territorial defeat of IS. On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible," tweeted Mustafa Bali, head of the SDF press office. The terror group had once controlled vast territories of land stretching from western Syria to eastern Iraq. In February this year, head of the United States military's Central Command, General Joseph Votel, said that he disagreed with US President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw troops from Syria. He added that the Caliphate proclaimed in 2014 can be defeated, but the terror group would continue to remain a threat, CNN reported. IMAGE: A fighter of Syrian Democratic Forces carries ammunition in Baghouz, Deir Al Zor province, Syria. Photograph: Rodi Said/Reuters "The caliphate still has leaders, still has fighters, it still has facilitators, it still has resources, so our continued military pressure is necessary to continue to go after that network," the general added. In the wee hours of February 10, the SDF or Kurdish forces, backed by US-led coalition group initiated an attack on the small town of Baghouz Al-Fawqani on the banks of the Euphrates river, considered to be the last bastion of IS in the country. IMAGE: Fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces sit in the bucket of an excavator in the village of Baghouz. Photograph: Rodi Said/Reuters The capture of Baghouz comes almost three months (December 2018) after US President Trump declared that IS had been defeated in Syria and announced for the US troops' withdrawal from the region -- a decision that triggered senior State Department officials, including Defence Secretary James Mattis, to resign from their posts. Earlier this week, US President Trump brandished maps in front of reporters at the White House, claiming to have destroyed the 'IS physical Caliphate' in Syria and Iraq ever since taking office in 2016. IMAGE: A fighter of Syrian Democratic Forces holds two children in the village of Baghouz. Photograph: Issam Abdallah/Reuters The US president further announced that the Islamic State would be "gone by tonight" as fighting continued between the terror group and the US-backed local forces in Syria. Protests erupted in various parts of West Bengal after the Bharatiya Janata Party, in its first list of 28 candidates, nominated its veterans and defectors from the ruling Trinamool Congress to take on Mamata Banerjee's party in the state. With 'old-timers being overlooked in favour of turncoats and newcomers', protesters gathered outside BJP offices in various parts of the state and, in some places, put up posters of rejected ticket aspirants outside the offices. BJP state vice-president Raj Kamal Pathak submitted his resignation after he was denied a party ticket. The saffron party, which bagged two Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2014 elections, is now targeting 23 of the state's 42 constituencies. Of its 28 candidates, nearly 25 are new faces, with a thrust on active political workers rather than greenhorns from the glamour world. Unlike the TMC which had 18 new faces and a mix of old-timers and greenhorns, hardcore politicians and personalities from the film industry, the BJP has put faith on its own leaders and defectors from other parties. "If after serving the party for three decades and holding the post of vice-president do not make me qualified to get a party ticket, it is better to resign from the post," Pathak said. The veteran BJP leader wanted to contest from Hooghly district, but he was overlooked in favour of a newcomer in the party. BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said efforts will be made to pacify the dissidents. "There can be resentment in some places, but everything can be sorted out through discussions," BJP state secretary Rahul Sinha said. This is not the first time the BJP has faced such protests. During the Kolkata Municipal Corporation polls in 2015, several ticket aspirants staged protest rallies outside the party office. Of the candidates, five had recently defected to the saffron party from the TMC and one from the Communist Party of India-Marxist. Union minister and BJP MP from Asansol Lok Sabha constituency Babul Supriyo has been renominated from the same seat and is pitted against actor Moon Moon Sen of the TMC. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh will contest from Medinipur seat against TMC leader Manas Bhunia. BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha will take on TMC heavyweight Sudip Bandopadhyay in Kolkata North Lok Sabha seat. State BJP vice-president and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's grandnephew, Chandra Kumar Bose will contest from Kolkata South Lok Sabha seat. Former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh, once known to be close to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, will be fighting against TMC candidate and actor Dipak Adhikary, popularly known as 'Dev', from Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency. The BJP has fielded former TMC MLA Arjun Singh from Barrackpur Lok Sabha seat. Singh, who had recently joined the saffron party, has been pitted against TMC's Dinesh Trivedi. In Coochbebar Lok Sabha seat, the party has fielded former TMC youth leader Nishith Pramanik, while in Jadavpur, expelled TMC MP Anupam Hazra will contest against TMC's Mimi Chakraborty, an actor by profession. Another former TMC MP Soumitra Khan, who joined the BJP in January, has been given ticket from Bishnupur (SC) Lok Sabha seat. Former CPI-M MLA Khagen Murmu, who too had switched over to the BJP, will contest from Malda North seat against TMC's Mausam Benazir Noor, who had recently defected to the party from the Congress, in Malda Uttar seat. Former TMC leader Sreerupa Mitra Chowdhury, who had contested elections on a TMC ticket from New Delhi, is the BJP candidate from the neighbouring Malda South seat. There are four women candidates and one Muslim nominee in the first list. The BJP in minority-dominated seats such as Malda South, Malda North and Basirhat did not field any candidate from the community. "We do not believe in giving tickets just on the basis of religion. For us winnability is the biggest criteria," said a state BJP leader. The Lok Sabha elections in the state will be held from April 11 till May 19 in seven phases. The actor-turned-politician whose criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has grown progressively sharper, didn't figure on the BJP's list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls. The National Democratic Alliance in a press conference, announced the seat sharing agreement on Saturday for the state of Bihar. Bharatiya Janata Party will contest from 17 seats, Nitish Kumar-led Janta Dal-United will contest from 17 seats and Ram Vilas Paswans Lok Janshakti Party has been given six seats. One of the biggest takeaways from the press conference was that Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will be the BJP's Lok Sabha candidate from Patna Sahib, the parliamentary constituency of Shatrughan Sinha, who has been unhappy with the BJP for past couple of years. In fact, according to reports, the actor-turned-politician may contest for the polls from Congress from Patna Sahib. Sinha has been publicly criticising the party leadership and the prime minister. It was also announced that LJP chief and BJP ally Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan will not contest polls from the Hajipur seat. The party has fielded Paswan's younger brother Pasupati Kumar Paras in his place. Paswan's son -- Chirag -- will contest from the Jamui seat, the one he won in 2014. The BJP has also shifted its firebrand leader Giriraj Singh from the Nawada seat to Begusarai seat. Additionally, Minister of State Rajiv Pratap Rudy has been announced as NDA's Lok Sabha election candidate from Saran constituency while Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh will fight from East Champaran. The list also included the names of Ramkirpal Yadav who will contest from Patliputra, RK Singh from Arrah and Ashwani Choubey from Buxar. However, one name missing from the list was of former Union Minister Shahnawaz Hussain. Bihar is one among those states of the country which will go for polling during all the seven phases of Lok Sabha elections. In Bihar, the different constituencies will see elections on April 11, 18, 23, and 29 and May 6, 12 and 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. -- With inputs from Agencies After taking their protests to the national capital to highlight their demands, Tamil Nadu farmers are gearing up for an electoral battle and will file 111 nominations from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is contesting. Tamil Nadu farmers leader P Ayyakannu said on Saturday that 111 farmers from the state will contest against Modi from Varanasi. Ayyakannu, who is also president of the National South Indian Rivers Inter-Linking Farmers Association, said the decision to contest the polls from Uttar Pradesh was to urge the Bharatiya Janata Party to include in their manifesto that their demands, including "profitable prices for farm produce," would be fulfilled. The farmers leader, who spearheaded agitations in Delhi in 2017 for over 100 days, said the "moment they assure in their manifesto that our demands will be fulfilled, we will drop our decision to contest against Modi." In the event of that not happening, he said they would go ahead and contest against Modi. The decision to contest polls has the support of farmers everywhere and the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, Ayyakannu said. Asked why they were raising the demand with BJP alone and not other parties like the Congress to include it in their manifestos, he said the BJP was still the ruling party and Modi the prime minister. Parties like the Dravida Munnetra Kazagham and the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam have assured full loan waiver, which is also one of the farmers' demands, in their manifestos, he said. "We are not against the BJP or our PM Modi. Before assuming power, Modi ji promised fulfilling our demands and assured to double our income. Even today he is our prime minister and the BJP is the ruling party and that is why we are making this demand to them." The leader wondered as to what stopped the saffron party from giving an assurance. Already, he said, he has booked train tickets for 300 farmers to go to Varanasi. Farmers from districts, including Tiruvannamalai and Tiruchirappalli, will reach Varanasi, he said. The BJP-led government at the Centre had promised to fulfil their demands including profitable prices for farm produce, loan waiver from all banks including nationalised, and cooperative and Rs 5,000 pension for farmers over 60, Ayyakannu said. "At the least, let the lone BJP MP from Tamil Nadu Pon Radhakrishnan commit that our promises will be honoured in the manifesto, we may think about reconsidering our decision," he said. In November 2018, farmers led by Ayyakannu had gone to Delhi with two "skulls," to take part in a kisan rally, saying it belonged to their colleagues who had allegedly committed suicide over debt. WASHINGTON Connecticuts senators joined other Democrats Friday in swiftly demanding the full release of special council Robert Muellers report on Russian interference into U.S. elections. U.S. Attorney General William Barr notified congressional leaders late Friday that Mueller had concluded his 22-month probe and said he might able to advise them of its principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. The special councils investigation examined possible obstruction of justice and Trump campaign collusion with Moscow as part of its probe of Russian interference during the 2016 election. Attorney General Barr should immediately turn over all records to Congress and make the full special counsels report public, Sen. Chris Murphy said. Mueller investigated issues at the very core of our democracyincluding whether a foreign power worked with the president or his campaign to get him elected, and whether (President Donald) Trump and those around him tried to cover it up. The American people deserve to know all the facts now. The future of American democracy depends on it. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the imperative for transparency and full disclosure is immediate and urgent. The public has a right to know all of the findings and evidence that resulted from this investigation, Blumenthal said. The public interest is paramount in disclosing not only conclusions, but the facts that led to them. There is no excuse for concealing any part of this report along with its findings and evidence - it would be tantamount to a cover-up. Blumenthal has said that, if needed, he would push to subpoena the Justice Department for information contained in Muellers report. In his letter to leaders of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees, Barr said he intended to consult with Mueller and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law. I am reviewing the report and anticipate I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, Barr wrote. Muellers probe has already resulted in the indictment of 34 people, including six former Trump aides or confidants. Those swept up in the indictments include Paul Manafort and Roger Stone, as well as Russian military officers and members of a Russian troll farm who tried to sow division among U.S. voters through fake social media accounts. While Muellers probe remained leak-free, public court documents submitted during the investigation revealed how Trump associates like Manafort defrauded banks, cheated on their taxes, and lied repeatedly about their ties to Russia. Trump has repeatedly denounced Muellers investigation as a witch hunt and said the probe has not turned up any evidence of collusion between his re-election campaign and the Kremlin. WASHINGTON Rep. Jahana Hayes has accepted an invitation to meet with former President Barack Obama at a gathering of Democratic House freshmen on Monday evening. Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif, is hosting the reception at a private home in Washington D.C. to celebrate the freshman class of the 116th Congress. Obama has met Hayes before, most notably when he gave her an award for National Teacher of the Year in 2016. Obama also endorsed Hayes when she ran for the 5th District congressional seat last year. While some of the members of the large, 60-plus Democratic freshman class may never have met the former president before, about a dozen of the new lawmakers worked in his administration. Because of their size and diversity - many are women and/or minorities, like Hayes, who never worked in politics before this years freshman class has broken with the tradition that those without much seniority in Congress be seen and not heard. Not yet three months into their congressional careers, the freshman class has made its mark. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has become a high-profile progressive leader with an enormous social media following. She is also a lightning rod for conservative criticism. Fellow freshman Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn, has been embroiled in controversy twice because of comments that some considered anti-Semitic. And Hayes drew attention by questioning Pelosi over the scheduling of a resolution condemning anti-Semitism that was prompted over the furor over Omar comments. Hayes said lawmakers had not had a chance to read the final resolution, which had been amended many times. Hayess profile has also been raised by her appearance alongside Pelosi, Omar and Ocasio-Cortez on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. LITCHFIELD Superintendent of Schools Sherri Turner resigned Friday afternoon, sending a letter to parents explaining her decision to leave the district. After much thought and reflection, I have decided to resign my position as Superintendent of the Litchfield Public Schools effective June 30, 2019, wrote Turner, who has worked in Litchfield since 2012. It has been an honor to serve the students over the past seven years, first as Center School Principal and ultimately as the Superintendent. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such a talented staff and I continue to be impressed with the amazing accomplishments of our students, she wrote. I am grateful for the support you have given me over the years, and for your unwavering dedication to partnering our schools to provide the best education possible for all of our students. School board Chairwoman Gayle Carr heard of Turners decision late Friday. Im so sad that shes leaving, Carr said. Its a loss for the district. But I think its better for her. Its a good thing for her career. But its a real loss to us. School board member Don Falcetti, who has served on the school board for decades, was dismayed by the news of Turners departure. I have been very pleased with her job as superintendent, he said. shes done some wonderful things ... shes done a wonderful job. Im really sorry shes leaving. Carr and Falcetti credited Turner with the schools in the district being named Schools of Distinction by the state Department of Education. The Litchfield public school system was rated as the best among schools with similar socioeconomic status, according to rankings released by the state education department. In addition, each of Litchfields schools, elementary, middle, and high schools, received Schools of Distinction Awards. Litchfield schools topped all comparable school districts in the states District Reference Groups, or DRG, analysis, which ranks student achievement across district income levels. Litchfield scored an 85.7 on the Next Generation Accountability System Results index, which had an average of 77.0 in DRG E, surpassing several other districts with higher income levels. The high score was achieved despite Litchfields relatively modest expenditures. Litchfield public schools spend $20,545 per student. The highest per-pupil expenditure in other districts in the group is over $33,000 per student, and the lowest is slightly more than $13,000. We were named schools of distinction under her leadership, Falcetti said. Thats wonderful. Carr agreed. That was all her doing, she said. She recognized what the schools had to offer and she let people know about it. However, Carr said, Turner enjoyed working with students. She wants to be closer to the kids somehow, she said. Being superintendent kept her away from the kids, and this gets her closer to where she loves to be. Finding a new superintendent will likely be discussed when the school board meets again April 3, during its regular bi-monthly meeting. How a search will be conducted hasnt been decided. Falcetti said the board has used different methods over the years. Everyone does it a different way, he said. Sometimes a search committee is set up ... other times, its in-house people and the school board makes a choice that way. I dont think theres a specific way to (find a new superintendent), and weve done different things to find one. It also depends on the time of year, Falcetti said. Superintendents, in my experience, tend to stay until the end of the year, and so well have to see what happens. Carr said Turners administrative staff thinks the world of her. Shes an unrecognized hero in this town, she said. As far as hiring a new person goes, anyone who comes to us has to be prepared to deal with the long-term planning issues that confront a small district like ours, with declining populations. The population that remains, demands a school with absolute excellence. So whoever comes here will need to be prepared to deal with those issues. Several thousand people have gathered in the Belarusian city of Hrodno to mark the founding of the short-lived first independent Belarusian republic 101 years ago. People gathered in a local park on March 23 for the event that was approved by local authorities, singing patriotic songs and waving flags of the Belarusian Peoples Republic. The republic was proclaimed on March 25, 1918, but lasted less than two years before Soviet forces deposed it. Its leaders were briefly headquartered in Hrodno, near the border with Poland, after being driven out of Minsk. Activists had used social media to organize the event after authorities in Minsk refused to allow them to hold the event there. The commemoration comes amid growing pressure from Moscow for Belarus to further integrate with Russia. The Russian ambassador to Minsk, Mikhail Babich, said on March 15 that billions of dollars in Russian subsidies to Belarus would continue only if Minsk agrees to more closely integrate with Russia. Babich's statement echoed Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent warning to Minsk. Belarusian Foreign Ministry spokesman Anatoly Hlaz fired back, chiding Babich for failing to respect Belarus and talking "like an aspiring bookkeeper." Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka has recently criticized increases in the price of Russian energy as part of Moscow's efforts to persuade his country to abandon its independence. Four Iranian border guards rescued by Pakistani security forces after they were abducted by militants have returned to Tehran, state media report. State television showed a video of the border guards on March 22 stepping off a transport plane to a heros welcome. Their commander, Brigadier-General Mohammad Pakpour, who heads Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), greeted the guards. Pakistani military officials said earlier that their security forces had rescued four Iranian soldiers who were being held by a militant group in the country's Chaghi district of Balochistan Province, near the Afghan border. "Terrorists of a proscribed organization were reported to have entered Pakistan from the Afghanistan side along with abducted Iranian soldiers," the Pakistani military said. "After exchange of fire, four Iranian soldiers [were] recovered," it continued. The Pakistani statement did not say when the abductions took place or which group had taken the guards captive. Based on reporting by AFP and dpa U.S. President Donald Trump has hailed the recapture of the last Islamic State-held territory in Syria, but said the United States would remain vigilant until the extremist group "is finally defeated wherever it operates." We will continue to work with our partners and allies to totally crush radical Islamic terrorists, Trump said in a statement on March 23. U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on March 23 that they had liberated the village of Baghuz, the last area held by Islamic State (IS) in Syria, marking the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate, which the extremist group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. Earlier, Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), tweeted on March 23 that the eastern Syrian village of Baghuz was free, declaring victory over the extremists and the end of their self-declared caliphate. SDF fighters paraded in memory of 11,000 comrades killed in years of fighting against IS. A band played the American national anthem. The SDF has been battling to capture Baghuz at the Iraqi border for weeks. Bali says the so-called caliphate, which once sprawled across much of Syria and neighboring Iraq, is gone, and pledged to continue the fight against remnants of the extremist group until they are completely eradicated. 'Committed To Enduring Defeat' Western officials, including U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, said the United States and coalition partners still had much to do despite the groups territorial defeat in Syria. "We still have work to do to make sure that radical Islamic terrorism doesn't continue to grow," Pompeo said. U.S. acting Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan said the "work is far from complete" and added that the United States remains committed to Islamic State groups "enduring defeat." We will continue our work with the Global Coalition to deny [IS] safe haven anywhere in the world, Shanahan said in a statement on March 23. French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Theresa May welcomed the recapture of Baghuz as a major step. Both France and Britain back the SDF. In a statement, May cautioned that the coalition must not lose sight of the threat IS still poses. Syrian Ambassador to the UN Bashar Jaafari said on March 22 that it was the Syrian government backed by Russia and Iran that was genuinely battling IS, not the United States. The fall of Baghuz marks the end of a nearly five-year campaign by multiple forces against the extremist group, which at one time controlled an area the size of Britain. The Iraqi government declared victory against IS in 2017. The group no longer controls any territory in Syria or Iraq, but continues to carry out attacks in both countries. It also has affiliates in Egypts Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. With reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters Interim Kazakh President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev has signed a decree to rename the capital Astana after former President Nursultan Nazarbaev, who stepped down abruptly earlier in the week. The signed decree to rename the city Nur-Sultan was published on the official Kazakh presidential website on March 23. Toqaev, who will serve as interim president until a presidential election in April 2020, proposed the name change on March 20, one day after the 78-year-old Nazarbaev announced on March 19 he was stepping down as president after ruling the energy-rich Central Asian country for nearly 30 years. He still, however, remains chairman for life of the Kazakh Security Council and chairman of the ruling Nur-Otan party. Parliament quickly approved the change, but members of the public oppose it. Dozens were detained in the Kazakh capital during rallies against the change on March 21 and 22. Rights activists and critics say Nazarbaev persistently suppressed dissent, prolonged his time in office through undemocratic votes or referendums, and used the levers of power to neutralize potential opponents. The city is no stranger to changing its name. It was known as Akmolinsk up till 1961 when it was renamed Tselinograd (meaning "virgin lands city" in Russian). It became Aqmola ("white grave" in Kazakh) after Kazakhstan became independent following the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. After the capital was moved from Almaty in southeastern Kazakhstan to Aqmola in 1997, the city was once again renamed, this time to Astana ("capital" in Kazakh). And now it is known as Nur-Sultan. With reporting by Interfax For months across the United States, lawmakers, activists, journalists, average Americans, and most of all, President Donald Trump, have been waiting anxiously to learn about the outcome of the most politically explosive criminal investigation in a generation. On March 22, Special Counsel Robert Mueller signaled the end of his nearly two-year probe, submitting a final report to the head of the Justice Department, Attorney General William Barr. For the moment, its unknown what the report contains. It could signal new indictments will be forthcoming, though some initial media reports said that didnt appear likely. It could lay out a road map of findings indicating that Trump and his closest associates sought to collude with Russian officials to sway the 2016 presidential election campaign. It could accuse Trump of trying to obstruct an ongoing FBI investigation by firing then-Director James Comey in May 2017 -- an event that led to Mueller's appointment. It could make oblique mentions of actions taken by individuals that may not amount to crimes but lay the groundwork for future cases or investigations by Congress. Or it may contain none of these things. Regardless, though, the findings of the Mueller report will play a big part in determining the fate of the next two years of Trumps administration, and whether he seeks reelection. Heres a quick look at what comes next. Barr Decision The law governing Mueller's work was clear on one point: He was required to submit a final report to the Justice Department at the conclusion of his investigation, something that Barr confirmed had happened on March 22. The law, and Justice Department regulations, were less clear on how much of that report should be made public. In his hearings earlier this year before the Senate on whether he should be confirmed as attorney general, Barr gave a careful answer to questions about his position on sharing the report publicly. "I...believe it is very important that the public and Congress be informed of the results of the special counsel's work. My goal will be to provide as much transparency as I can consistent with the law," he told senators. But theres a lot of room for interpretation in that statement. Barr was also asked about so-called "declination decisions," where Mueller may explain why he and his team chose not to prosecute a person. Mere mention of a person's name in such a report could be damaging politically, or even lay the groundwork for Congress to take up an investigation. "As the rules stand now, the rules I think say the special counsel will prepare a summary report on any prosecutive or declination decisions, and that shall be confidential and be treated as any other declination or prosecutive material within the department," he said. In the letter released by the Justice Department, Barr wrote that he would meet with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Mueller "to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law." Will There Be More Indictments? Since taking over the already existing FBI probe in May 2017, Mueller and his team have brought charges against more than three dozen individuals and entities, including Trump's former campaign chairman, Trumps first national-security adviser, and lower-level campaign officials -- not to mention a dozen agents from the Russian military intelligence agency, the GRU. For the moment, its too early to tell whether the end of Mueller's work will include the release of more indictments. Not long after the report was transmitted to the Justice Department, The New York Times, CNN, and other media quoted a Justice official as saying the report did not contain any new indictments, though there was no official confirmation of that. Mueller has also been investigating whether Trump tried to obstruct justice when he fired FBI Director Comey in May 2017 -- an act that led to Muellers appointment. Trump and his lawyer have argued that as president, he has wide authority to hire and fire cabinet officials; some legal experts have said that if Trump fired Comey specifically to stop him from investigating Trump, that would be a felony. It's also possible that Mueller has already laid the legal groundwork for other prosecutions in other locations, which would continue on even though Mueller has ended his own work. Mueller's earlier efforts, for example, led to the U.S. attorney for Manhattan charging Trump's longtime personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, with various financial crimes. Cohen ultimately pleaded guilty in exchange for his help with other investigations. And some legal experts have pointed to mysterious, sealed filings in various court jurisdictions as possibly an indication that Mueller has already left behind indictments to be revealed at a later date, though there's been no confirmation of that. Then there are the state investigations. In New York state, where Trumps main corporation is headquartered, law enforcement agencies and regulators have already opened investigations into Trumps business practices and those of his charitable foundation. Those probes will continue regardless of Muellers work. What About Congress? After taking control of the House of Representatives in November, congressional Democrats signaled they intended to be far more aggressive in their investigations of the Trump administration on the Russia question, as well as other matters. At least three House committees have already started summoning witnesses and subpoenaing documents. Though the question of how much of the report will be released publicly may largely lay with Barr and the Justice Department, the House of Representatives sent a strong bipartisan signal earlier this month when it voted unanimously -- 420-to-0 -- to demand the report be publicly available. U.S. President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have spoken by phone on issues including NATO funding, Ukraine, and trade, officials from the White House and German government say. The official on March 22 said the call took place shortly after Trump began a weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida. A White House statement said the discussion covered trade, the Brexit debate in Britain, and upcoming meetings. A senior administration official said the conversation also covered funding for the NATO alliance. Trump has long criticized Germany and other NATO allies for not paying enough for their own defense and burdening U.S. taxpayers with too much of the cost. German government spokesman Steffen Seibert said the conversation also covered issues related to Ukraine without being specific. Ukrainian government forces have been fighting against Russia-backed separatists in Ukraines eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk since April 2014 in a conflict that has killed some 13,000 people -- a quarter of them civilians. Moscow has also seized and annexed Ukraine's Crimea region in a move not recognized by the international community. Based on reporting by Reuters and dpa The U.S. Congress, President Donald Trump, and the American public are waiting for details of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russias role in the 2016 U.S. presidential election that was submitted to the Justice Department on March 22. Attorney General William Barr was reviewing the document on March 23, news agencies reported, while Trump, who has relentlessly criticized Mueller's investigation as a "witch hunt," remained silent on the report. Trump was at his golf club in Florida on March 23, and more than 120 House Democrats held a conference call as they waited for Barr's summary, the Associated Press reported. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told House Democrats in the call that the information must be provided to Congress in a way that allows lawmakers to discuss it publicly, AP reported citing an anonymous source. Pelosi she would reject any classified briefing for top lawmakers and congressional intelligence committee members. Barr has said he could inform Congress of its principal conclusions "as soon as this weekend." There were conflicting reports about when the key findings of the report were going to be released to Congress and the public. Fox News quoted an official "familiar with process" as saying on March 23 that Barr "wants to get this out tonight." However, the AP and Reuters cited unnamed officials at the Justice Department as saying that they are not expected to release a summary of findings to Congress and the public on March 23. How much of the report is released publicly is up to Barr, the Justice Department, Congress, and the White House. Mueller was required by law to submit the report at the conclusion of his 22-month investigation, and Barr has he said wants to make much of it public. But the law gives Barr wide discretion on how much of the report to release, and there have been fears in Congress that Trumps White House may seek to hide its most damning contents. U.S. lawmakers have expressed hopes for a quick release of the details of the report, while Democrats in particular demanded that all of it be made public without any editing by the White House. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer reiterated his demand on March 23 that the White House not be given a "sneak peek" at the report. White House spokesman Hogan Gidley, who met up with Trump on the golf course, told journalists on March 23 that the White House had not received and had not been briefed on the report. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (Democrat-California) old House Democrats that even if there are no further prosecutions from Mueller, his full report must be released to Congress. Pelosi said Barr's offer to provide Congress with a summary of conclusions was "insufficient." Pelosi said, "Even if the [Department of Justice] chooses not to prosecute additional individuals, the underlying findings must be provided to Congress and the American people." 'Protecting Our Democracy' Democrat Jerry Nadler, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, said: "Transparency and the public interest demand nothing less. The need for public faith in the rule of law must be the priority." Senator Elizabeth Warren (Democrat-Massachusetts), a presidential candidate, urged "Attorney General Barr -- release the Mueller report to the American public. Now." Senator Kamala Harris (Democrat-California), tweeted on March 23 that "releasing the Mueller report to the public is about protecting our democracy and peoples confidence in our elections and government. Harris urged the White House not to "interfere in any way" and give the information to the American people. Six Democratic congressional committee chairmen wrote to Barr that if the report indicates there is reason to believe Trump "has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct," the Justice Department should not attempt to hide it. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said administration officials had not received the report or been briefed on it. However, one of Trumps personal lawyers, Rudy Giuliani, said the presidents lawyers want to see the report before the findings are made public. The beginning of the end of Muellers investigation that had mesmerized lawmakers, activists, journalists, average Americans, and most of all, Trump, came in the late afternoon on March 22. After 4 p.m., a security officer from the special counsels went to the Justice Department headquarters carrying a letter to inform the attorney general that Mueller had completed his probe. An hour later, the news was delivered to the House and Senate Judiciary committees, and shortly thereafter was made public, leading cable news channels to announce "Breaking News." Trump, spending the weekend at his resort in Florida, spoke at a Republican Party event at the estate but did not mention the report, a senior administration official told AP. Hours earlier, Trump had attacked the investigation, which he has often called a witch hunt and a hoax. "For two years, we've gone through this nonsense, because there's no collusion with Russia," he said. "People will not stand for it." Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he welcomed the announcement that Mueller had completed his investigation. 'A Significant Threat' "Many Republicans have long believed that Russia poses a significant threat to American interests," McConnell said in a statement. "I hope the Special Counsel's report will help inform and improve our efforts to protect our democracy." Steve Scalise, the No. 2 House Republican and a vocal Trump supporter, said he believed the report would back the presidents claim that he did not collude with Russians during the presidential campaign. "The reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what we've known all along: There was never any collusion with Russia. The only collusion was between Democrats and many in the media who peddled this lie because they continue to refuse to accept the results of the 2016 election," Scalise said. Since 2017, Mueller has been examining both Russia's interference in the 2016 campaign and interactions between associates of Trump and Russian officials. Mueller has also been examining whether Trump unlawfully tried to obstruct justice by trying to hinder his investigation. Over the course of his probe, Mueller has indicted more than three dozen people and entities on various charges. To date, however, none of the charges directly address the question of whether there was coordination between Trump officials and Russian officials. Mueller has also targeted a dozen Russian military intelligence officers, as part of a plot to hack into computers of the Democratic political officials, as well as a company known informally as Russias troll factory, for spreading misinformation on social media networks. Russia has also denied the conclusions of the U.S. intelligence community that it engaged in a cyber- and propaganda effort during the 2016 campaign, aimed at undermining the U.S. electoral process, discrediting Democratic Party nominee Hillary Clinton, and bolstering Trumps bid for the presidency. It is too early to tell whether there will be more indictments coming. Shortly after the report was sent to the Justice Department, U.S. media quoted a Justice official as saying it did not contain any new indictments, though there was no official confirmation of that. It is possible Mueller has already laid the legal groundwork for other prosecutions in other locations, which would continue on even though Mueller has ended his own work. Muellers earlier efforts, for example, led to the U.S. attorney for Manhattan charging Trumps longtime personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, with various financial crimes. Cohen ultimately pleaded guilty in exchange for his help with other investigations. With reporting by AP, AFP, Reuters, The New York Times, Fox News Russian tourism to Cancun, Riviera Maya grows by 40 percent Cancun, Q.R. Russian tourism to the state of Quintana Roo has grown by 40 percent over the last two years says Armina Wolpert. Consul Honorario de Federacion de Rusia en Quintana Roo, Armina Wolpert, says that over the past two years, Russian tourists to the state has increase by 40 percent. She explained that one reason for the growth is the direct flights, adding that a majority of Russian visitors do so to Cancun and Riviera Maya. Wolpert says that direct fights such as the one between Moscow and Cancun have helped the more than 49,000 Russian visitors reach the region. Currently there are between four to five weekly flights that are direct, plus obviously the European flights with regular connections from Europe and other flights via Cuba. Photo: Arminas Travel For 2019, we are expecting an increase of at least 15 percent, she says noting they were talking about adding two more weekly flights for this year. Wolpert explained that the regular flights are provided by two charters, Pegas Touristik and Anex Tour, both Russian tour operators. She says with the recovery of Russias economy, Russian tourists began to travel again, resuming trips to Mexico. For travelers from Russia, the Mexican Caribbean has become the most attractive destination since eight out of 10 Russian travelers arrive at the Cancun airport. The records also indicate that arrivals have increase considerably from November to April of each year, since that is when they prefer to travel, staying an average of 10 to 12 nights. Rabb Da Radio - 2 Press Conference Chandigarh 23 March'19: Vehli Janta films and Omjee Group are set to release the sequel to Punjabi industrys classic film Rabb Da Radio that had released in 2017. Titled as Rabb Da Radio 2, this film also stars Tarsem Jassar and Simi Chahal in the lead roles and will release on March 29th, 2019. Apart from Tarsem Jassar and Simi Chahal, the film stars Wamiqa Gabbi, BN Sharma, Avtar Gill, Nirmal Rishi, Jagjeet Sandhu, Harby Sangha, Gurpreet Bhangu, Shivandra Mahal, Sunita Dhir, Tania, and Baljinder Kaur in pivotal roles. Manpreet Johal in association with Ashu Munish Sahni has produced the film under Vehli Janta films and Omjee Group banner respectively. This film is directed by Sharan Art. Jass Grewal has written the story of the film. The music of the film has released under Vehli Janta Records label. This sequel will focus on the story after the marriage of the protagonists, Manjinder and Guddi. Advertisement Simi Chahal Speaking on the film, the lead actor, Tarsem Jassar said, Manjinder had become a part of me when I was shooting for Rabb Da Radio. Thankfully, this character also won the hearts of all with its simplicity and values. It is always a pleasure to recreate the magic of a classic film. Rabb Da Radio 2 will now take the journey we had started in 2017, forward. It will focus on the family values and bonds. Tarsem Singh Jassar Advertisement I just hope that with this sequel will be able to create that same impact again and people will appreciate our efforts once again. Actress Simi Chahal said, Rabb Da Radio was a film that gave me recognition. Every character of that story was significant in taking the whole dynamic forward. The trailer of Rabb Da Radio 2 has already made people curious to know what happens to Manjinder and Guddi after marriage. We have tried our best to take you back to the beauty of the prequel and hope that people will come take this emotional and dramatic ride with us on 29th March at their nearest cinemas. Director of the film, Sharan Art said, I had a huge responsibility to recreate the same ambience and emotions in Rabb Da Radio 2 as its prequel. Tarsem Jassar is true performer and Simi Chahal is so easy in front of the camera. They made the whole filmmaking process easy for me. Now, I am really looking forward to the response from the audience. Trailer of Rabb Da Radio 2 has already made people curious Advertisement The poster, trailer and tracks of film have already created excitement amongst the audience. Considering Rabb Da Radio 2 is a sequel, we have tried our best to keep the essence of previous part alive in this film as well. We promise you that this film will be loved and remembered just like Rabb Da Radio, the producers of the film, Manpreet Johal and Ashu Munish Sahni said. Worldwide distribution of the film is done by Munish Sahnis Omjee Group. Rabb Da Radio 2 will release on 29th March 2019. Yasin Malik New Delhi, Mar 23: The Yasin Malik-led Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) was banned on Friday for "promoting" secession of the militancy-hit state from the Union of India, officials said here. Banning the outfit under various provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act after a high-level meeting on security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said the Centre is of the opinion that the JKLF is "in close touch with militant outfits" and is supporting extremism and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir and elsewhere. They said the outfit claims "secession of a part of the Indian territory from the union" and supports terrorist and separatist groups fighting for this purpose. Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said the JKLF has been banned as the government has a policy of zero tolerance against terrorism. The JKLF has been at the forefront of separatist activities in J-K and was involved in the killings of Kashmiri Pandits in 1989 leading to their exodus from the valley, he said. Advertisement The home secretary said the government is committed to relentlessly pursuing a policy of curbing the activities of secessionist groups which are threat to the country. The other reason for banning the outfit was that the cadres of the JKLF were indulging in activities intended to disrupt the territorial integrity of India, the officials said. Malik is at present lodged in Kot Balwal jail in Jammu, and is likely to face trial in the three-decade-old case of kidnapping of Rubaya Sayeed, the daughter of then Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, and gunning down of four IAF personnel in Srinagar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi The JKLF was founded by Pakistani national Amanullah Khan in mid-1970 at Birmingham in the United Kingdom and came into prominence in 1971 when its member hijacked an Indian Airlines plane flying from Srinagar to Jammu. As many as 37 FIRs have been registered against the JKLF by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Gauba said. The organisation was also involved in the kidnapping and killing of Ravindra Mhatre, an Indian diplomat posted the UK, in 1984. A week later, India executed Maqbool Bhat, a JKLF activist, who had been sentenced to death. Advertisement This is the second organisation in Jammu and Kashmir which has been banned this month. Earlier, the Centre had banned the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir. Gauba said the review of security of Jammu and Kashmir-based separatists would continue. The government withdrew security of several separatist leaders in Jammu and Kashmir following the Pulwama terror attack in February when 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Continental Services, a Troy, Michigan-based food management company, acquired Sterling Services, a Canton, Mich.-based provider of corporate dining, micro markets, vending and office coffee services. Under terms of the deal, the entire Sterling Services leadership team and staff will join the Continental team. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. In business more than three decades, Sterling Services add to Continentals portfolio of dining, refreshment services, and events brands to create Michigans largest founder-owned contract dining management company. A portfolio company of New Heritage Capital, a Boston-based private equity firm that partners with growing, middle market, founder-owned businesses, Continental provides a wide range of custom dining, refreshment, and event services for more than 1,000 signature clients including small and medium-sized businesses, blue-chip corporations, colleges, universities, business and industrial sites, and hospitals and medical centers. The companys custom-tailored services range from on-site corporate cafes, grab-and-go micro markets and traditional vending, to off-premise catering and event services. The company has made five strategic acquisitions in the past 18 months as it works toward achieving its long-term growth and expansion objectives. FinSMEs 23/03/2019 Imran Khan welcomes PM Modi's greetings Islamabad, Mar 23: Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has welcomed his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi's greetings on the eve of its National Day, saying time has come to begin a "comprehensive dialogue" between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including the "central issue" of Kashmir. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Khan, in a tweet, welcomed Modi's message and said the time has come to begin a comprehensive dialogue between the two countries to address and resolve all issues, including Kashmir. Advertisement "I welcome PM Modi's message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people," Khan tweeted on Friday. India has made it clear to Pakistan that cross-border terror attacks and talks cannot go hand in hand. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj India last year called off a planned meeting of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi on the sidelines of the annual session of the UN General Assembly in New York after blaming Pakistan-based entities for killing of three special police officers in Kashmir. Earlier, Khan also tweeted Modi's message. "Received msg from PM Modi: 'I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. Advertisement It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence'," Khan said. Modi's message to Khan came in the midst of severe strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the Pulwama attack and the subsequent air strikes by India on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot. Significantly, India Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission here to mark Pakistan's National Day, objecting to invites extended to several separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir for the event. The official sources in New Delhi said the prime minister sends a customary message on National Days to other heads of state and government and added that his message to Khan highlighted the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Shah Mahmood Qureshi Advertisement Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group JeM killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Every year on March 23, Pakistan celebrates its National Day commemorating the Lahore Resolution passed on March 23, 1940 and the adoption of the first constitution of Pakistan on March 23, 1956. GreenMark Biomedical, Inc., an East Lansing, MI- and Ann Arbor, MI-based developer of patented nanoparticle-based dental technology, secured $670k in equity funding completing a $1.2m seed round. The company intends to use funds to further develop and commercialize its technology. The University of Michigans MINTS program, Invest Michigan and Red Cedar Ventures investments followed earlier funding from Blue Water Angels, Western Michigan Universitys BRCC and Invest Detroit Ventures. GreenMark develops a diagnostic product, which contains fluorescently labeled starch particles that target active caries and illuminate them using a standard curing light found in every dental practice. The identification at early stages before cavitation will allow the use of non-surgical management options, resulting in less discomfort and improved long-term oral health outcomes for patients. It will be used by dental professionals as part of the routine dental exam. FinSMEs 23/03/2019 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. Building from the ground up Alternative spring break allows students to make a difference in Tuscaloosa, Alabama The foundation was laid out for the house on the first day that the Alternative Spring Break team arrived in Alabama. Aditya Vasa gets down to business while using a power saw to cut some plywood for the housing project. The house was almost finished by the last day of the trip. Students did some heavy lifting during construction. Jaclyn Altizio and Abbie Fahey show their Gamecock pride in front of the house. Editor's note: Jaclyn Altizio is a junior majoring in exercise science at the Arnold School of Public Health. This is her second year as a team leader for an Alternative Spring Break Trip to Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This year, her team served with Habitat for Humanity and The Salvation Army. This is her story from the week as told to student e-news editor Mia Grimm. Throughout high school, I was always involved in different service projects and I wanted to continue that involvement during college. But I didnt quite know how to become involved or what service organization I wanted to be a part of until fate intervened. Im from New Jersey and didnt want to spend money to buy a plane ticket home for spring break. Instead, my best friend from freshman year and I decided to sign up for an alternative spring break trip to Florida. Rather than lying on the beach all day, we participated in an environmental service project by building a 300-foot boardwalk on Merritt Island to help preserve land. As soon as we got back to campus, I knew that I wanted to lead my own trip the following year. In particular, I was really interested in picking my own theme. In high school, I had volunteered on a lot of construction mission trips, so thats what I wanted to focus on as a trip leader shelter access. As trip leader, I also had to select the location, create the trips schedule in coordination with the nonprofit, develop a budget, plan meals and submit it all before the end of the summer to the Leadership and Service Center. This year, like my sophomore year, my team and I went to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to help build a house with Habitat for Humanity. In 2011, Tuscaloosa was hit by tornados and the community is still recovering. The womans family whose house we were working on had lost a lot in the storm, but it was an incredible feeling getting to work beside her for two out of the three days we were there. For me, the most awe-inspiring moment during the building process was pulling up the walls of the house because it showed such a physical transformation. At first, all the beams are laid out on the ground and we nail them into place. Then, as a group, we each grabbed a rope and on the count of three we pulled the walls up. Thats when it really sunk in that we were making a difference and actually creating a structure that somebody was going to live in someday. On this years trip, I also added a visit to the local Salvation Army. While we were there, we helped clean the facility and learned about the different programs they offer to the homeless. They provide shelter, meals, GED classes, job hunting assistance and much more. This visit helped communicate to my fellow team members the difference between homelessness and shelter access, which most people think are the same issue. On the way back to campus, I was finally able to sit back and reflect on everything that happened during the trip. I loved getting to know my group better throughout the project. Each night, I would learn a little bit more about them and their opinions during the reflections I led or while cooking dinner and sleeping all together on cots in a church gym. I also thought about how my team leader experience has affected me overall. Its made me more confident in my leadership abilities and organizational skills. My sophomore year was a big deal because I was really in charge for the first time. I was making the decisions for the group and planning things out all on my own. This year, I noticed it was more about me gaining the confidence to do those things more. Next year, I plan to be a team leader again, hopefully for an alternative winter break. I want my theme to match a little bit more with my major this time, so maybe something along the lines of obesity, but nothing is set in stone yet. Until then, I get to look forward to seeing my alternative spring break team again when we reunite for an upcoming Service Saturday. Its only been a week, but I already miss them. Learn more Interested in leading your own Alternative Spring Break Trip? Visit the Leadership and Service Center's website. Share this Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about On March 8, 2019, the Securities and Exchange Commission filed an amended complaint in an ongoing civil action in which the SEC alleges that numerous individuals and associated entities participated in microcap schemes that generated over $27 million from unlawful stock sales. The amended complaint includes additional allegations in support of its claims against thirteen of the original twenty defendants in a civil action. Since the filing of the initial action last September, the SEC has obtained final consent judgments as to six defendants who allegedly had a role in the schemes. On January 10, 2019, the SEC obtained final judgments against Miami-based billionaire investor Phillip Frost; OPKO Health, Inc., a publicly traded company for which Frost serves as Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer; and Frost Gamma Investments Trust, a trust controlled by Frost. On February 6, 2019, the SEC obtained final consent judgements as to Miami-based investor Mark Groussman; Melechdavid Inc., a company of which Groussman is President; and Alpha Capital Anstalt, a Lichtenstein-based hedge fund. The SEC dismissed its charges against Southern Biotech, Inc., a now-defunct entity. According to the SEC's initial complaint, filed on September 7, 2018, the settling defendants failed to disclose that they were members of an investor group with respect to their investments in certain public companies, and in so doing, misled investors, and/or allegedly violated registration provisions of the federal securities in connection with their sales of securities in a penny stock issuer. Without admitting or denying the SEC's allegations, the settling defendants consented to the entry of final judgments permanently enjoining them from future violations of various provisions of the federal securities laws, and cumulatively paid more than $7.8 million in disgorgement of ill-gotten gains together with prejudgment interest thereon and civil penalties. In addition, defendants Frost, Frost Gamma, Groussman and Melechdavid each consented to penny stock bars, and defendants OPKO and Alpha each consented to certain undertakings related to their respective investment policies and procedures. For further information, see Litigation Release No. 24262, September 7, 2018. But the 48 people hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Thursday was down 12 from the 60 that were hospitalized last week. A driver traveling alone through Mount Tamalpais State Park Saturday morning died after his vehicle went off a cliff, California Highway Patrol officials said. Witnesses told responding officers that they saw the vehicle leave the roadway on Ridgecrest Boulevard and crash roughly 500 feet below on a steep hillside sometime before 10:30 a.m. San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi died from a mixture of cocaine and alcohol, which caused his already-damaged heart to stop, the city medical examiner has concluded. The San Francisco Medical Examiners Office released the autopsy report on Adachis death late Friday, one month after the 59-year-old public defender collapsed in an apartment on Telegraph Hill and was later pronounced dead at a hospital. The cause of death is acute mixed drug toxicity with cocaine and ethanol, with hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease as a contributing factor, Assistant Medical Examiner Ellen Moffatt wrote in the report. Based on the history, autopsy, microscopic and toxicology finding, the manner of death is accident. The public defenders office declined to comment on the report. Out of respect for the family, our office is not going to comment on what we believe is a private medical matter, said Katy St. Clair, a spokeswoman for the office. The report sheds new light on the final moments of the public defender, who died on Feb. 22. His unexpected death shocked city officials, who had worked closely with him during his 17 years as public defender. Many city leaders praised his work as a relentless defender of indigent clients, a police watchdog and a criminal justice reformer. Few, though, wanted to comment on Fridays autopsy results. Supervisor Sandra Lee Fewer, who called for a public hearing after a police report was leaked to the media after Adachis death, said Friday, What people do in their personal lives and in their own personal time is private. As a public official, I know that it is hard to have a private life, she said. But the fact that you could not even have privacy after death is also very disturbing. Mayor London Breed, a longtime friend of Adachis, declined to comment. The 25-page autopsy report details Adachis final moments in dispassionate detail. It includes interviews with witnesses and police, details about Adachis anatomy, as well as a toxicology report that found cocaine, alcohol, and benzodiazepines in his system. Benzodiazepines, such as Valium or Xanax, are widely prescribed sedatives. It began when paramedics were called to an apartment at 46 Telegraph Place at the base of Telegraph Hill at about 5:45 p.m. on Feb. 22, where they found Adachi unconscious. Paramedics and Fire Department personnel reported that witnesses at the scene stated that the subject had been acting strange and unlike himself, and grinding his teeth before collapsing, Moffatt wrote. Emergency services found the subject unresponsive on the floor of the bedroom. Paramedics began CPR and twice intubated Adachi to clear his airway, but he remained unconscious, the report states. They also tried unsuccessfully to revive him with electric shocks and administered epinephrine and Narcan, which reverses the effects of opioid-based narcotics. No opiates were found in his system. They rushed Adachi to California Pacific Medical Centers Pacific Campus, where he was pronounced dead at 6:54 p.m. Staff there contacted Adachis cousin, who called his wife, Mutsuko Adachi, who rushed to the hospital, according to the report. Adachis wife told investigators she last saw him around 6 a.m. when he left home that morning to go to the gym, Moffatt said. His wife said he had no known medical problems and was not taking any medications to her knowledge. She said he never used illegal drugs. Investigators from the medical examiners office and Police Department headed to the apartment to collect evidence and try to interview a woman who first called 911 from Adachis phone. According to a police report on the incident previously reviewed by The Chronicle, investigators interviewed a real estate agent, Susan Kurtz, who is a longtime friend of Adachis. She told them she allowed Adachi to use the apartment which is typically unoccupied for a couple of days. The medical examiners office learned Adachi had been with a different woman that night. Kurtz had told police she believed the womans name is Catalina. Sgt. Scott Warnke, an inspector with the homicide unit, later interviewed the woman. She told police she had spent the day with Adachi, starting in the morning and had breakfast about 11 a.m., the report states. Mr. Adachi seemed to be in his usual state of good health and ate well. At some point they consumed some edibles (cannabis). Around 4 p.m., they went to a North Beach restaurant and had dinner. 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. At dinner the two drank a glass or two of Champagne, and Mr. Adachi ate well but complained of upper abdominal pain and began sweating profusely, Moffatt wrote. The two left the restaurant and headed to the Telegraph Hill apartment, where Adachi took an ibuprofen and continued to have severe abdominal pain and sweating and eventually took off his clothes (with the exception of his underwear) and got into bed because he felt ill, the report states. Adachis companion asked if he would like to go to the hospital, but he refused, so the woman then went to a corner store to purchase heartburn relief medication and returned to find Adachi still in pain, investigators said. Adachi then became very confused and shortly after became unresponsive, Moffatt wrote. She called 911 and was instructed to perform CPR. A toxicology report later found small amounts of alcohol, cocaine, as well as benzodiazepines in his system. The levels of these substance in the blood are most consistent with them having been taken at some point during the day, with metabolism occurring over the subsequent hours, Moffatt wrote. The heart, with a significant amount of coronary artery disease and fibrosis already present, would have worked even harder with stimulant substances such as ethanol and cocaine in Mr. Adachis system. Adachis already compromised heart could no longer take the added stress and seized up around the time he was having dinner, Moffatt found. Hours later, he was pronounced dead. Breed has since appointed Mano Raju, a former managing attorney in the public defenders offices felony unit, as the new public defender. Raju told The Chronicle he intends to run for the position in November. San Francisco Chronicle staff writers Trisha Thadani and Lauren Hernandez contributed to this report. Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky Are California voters feeling the Bern this time? Thats the question facing Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont when he arrives in San Francisco on Sunday to stoke support for his renewed run for president. Bernie 2020 is not the same model as the renegade antipolitician who took on Hillary Clinton in 2016. Hes got a new haircut and a new suit. Hes also got a host of mini-Bernies in the Democratic field with him, who have co-opted both his style and his signature issues of health care for all and free tuition at public colleges and universities. Those mini-Bernies, like Kamala Harris, and other newcomers like Beto ORourke are more intriguing than Sanders to many voters simply because theyre largely unknown. In this business, mystery goes a long way. Sanders has had a lot of time to build a winning organization in California. But keep in mind, he had time before the 2016 primary as well, and he lost it by seven points. So he had better have built a better model since then. Because he has yet to come up with any fresh ideas. Falling up: The latest rumor is that former Vice President Joe Biden will join the race in April and that hell tap Stacey Abrams off the bat as his running mate. Abrams is the former minority leader of the Georgia House of Representatives who narrowly lost the governors race last year. I had a feeling that Abrams was on the rise when she was picked to give the Democratic response to President Trumps State of the Union address. But I also know that for all of the hoopla surrounding her, the bottom line is that she lost the race in Georgia. So its quite possible shed make an ideal running mate for Biden, who has lost two races for president. The Democrats seem to have a thing this year for also-rans. Beto ORourke, that celebrated newcomer to Democratic national politics, lost his U.S. Senate race in Texas in November to Ted Cruz, who may be the most hated man in the Capitol. Betting on losers seldom pays off in horse racing. Betting on two losers doesnt double your odds of winning. The Democrats, however, love the purity of convictions. And nothing says purity to them like losing. On the other hand: Keep an eye on Pete Buttigieg, the mayor of South Bend, Ind., who is one of many Democrats running for the White House. His thoughtfulness channels Barack Obama. His delivery is Bill Clinton. He graduated from Harvard and was a Rhodes scholar, so he hits a homer with the overeducated crowd. But hes also a Navy Reserve veteran who served in Afghanistan, which gives him purple-state credibility. And hes not on the socialist bandwagon with so many of the other Democratic hopefuls who want everything to be free. Im also taking a shine to Andrew Yang, who drew an impressive crowd in San Francisco the other day and wants to give every adult whos a U.S. citizen $1,000 a month. Thats a good opening offer. I dont know about you, but I think my vote is worth a bit more. 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. Making the grade: The college admission cheating scandal is a touchy subject for many people. Not because theyre cheaters, but because they know the on-the-level way of getting your kid into a good school requires tutors, consultants, test prep, application advice all of which favors the well-to-do. Thats all legal, but its not fair. And it wont go away, even when the scandal is forgotten. Movie time: The Highwaymen teams Woody Harrelson and Kevin Costner in a remake of Bonnie and Clyde, told from the cops point of view. Its filmed in black and white, with a great supporting cast of classic cars. The Opera Plaza Cinema booked it but no one else did, so I may be the only critic who found it interesting. Happy birthday to me: You treasure any birthday greeting when you hit my age, but here was my favorite: Im 96, and I want you to know that at 85 you are not hot at all. Want to sound off? Email: wbrown@sfchronicle.com As Lyft, Uber, Pinterest and other Bay Area tech companies go public, their employees with stock or options will have to make a potentially life-altering decision: whether to cash in or hold onto company stock. Most financial advisers recommend selling stock after any lockup period expires and using the proceeds to diversify into other assets, pay off high-cost (over 6 or 7 percent) debt, start an emergency or college fund, buy a home or boost retirement savings. Holding any single stock is risky, and if the stock makes up a big chunk of your net worth, its even riskier. If the stock is also the company you work for, its downright treacherous, because if the company fails, you could lose your nest egg and your job. Concentration makes you money, diversification helps you keep it, said Shannon Lynch, a senior adviser with Personal Capital. Yet many employees are reluctant to cash in IPO riches. Some see it as disloyal. Its like cheating on your partner, so to speak, said Hersh Shefrin, professor of behavioral finance at Santa Clara University. Or they think they know the company better than outsiders do, which is usually a mistake. In the late 1990s, Jim Titus was working in Boston for a firm called AdSmart that was acquired by Internet sensation CMGI. It had stakes in dozens of high-flying companies including Alta Vista, Lycos, Geocities, Snapfish and Raging Bull. They were a big deal. Our CEO was on the cover of Barrons, the Wall Street Journal, every week it seemed, he said. Titus got CMGI stock that he was sure would make him a millionaire. He and his colleagues were incredibly optimistic. Im in my 20s, this represents a good portion of my wealth. We were pricing out what new vehicles we were all going to buy, looking at different apartments or homes we were going to buy, he said. Titus held onto about half his CMGI stock and reinvested the rest, mostly in other tech stocks, thinking he was diversified. Then 2000 rolled around, the stock market collapsed, he said. After soaring almost 1,000 percent in 1999, CMGI stock lost 96 percent of its value by the end of 2000. He was in San Francisco by then, and it seemed two out of three of my friends were all unemployed. Experts tips for IPO riches Here are five suggestions for employees with stock or options in their company: Know what you own: Incentive and nonqualified stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units all have different rules and tax consequences. People who don't understand them can wind up with missed opportunities and tax headaches. Mystockoptions.com has a wealth of information on stock compensation. So may the firm that administers your employer's stock plan. Wealthfront has a primer at https://blog.wealthfront.com/equity-ipo-guide. Get professional help: Find a tax or financial adviser familiar with equity compensation who can help you minimize the tax burden and diversify your assets. Many financial advisers will give an initial consultation for free. Ask if your financial adviser will act as your fiduciary in all dealings. If the answer is no, head for the exit. Set a goal: "People who are happiest with their equity compensation have set a goal for those proceeds. When they have that amount of proceeds, they sell the stock to fund that," said Bruce Brumberg, editor of Mystockoptions.com. Review insurance: As your assets grow, you may want extra liability insurance that will protect them if you get sued. An umbrella policy will provide additional coverage beyond the limit on your homeowners, renters or auto policy. "It's generally very inexpensive for the amount of coverage they provide," said Jim Titus, a financial consultant with Charles Schwab. Also ask yourself if you still need life insurance, he said. "If you have a $1 million life insurance policy and your net worth is now $2 million, do you need the $1 million policy?" Share the wealth: If a windfall pushes you into a higher tax bracket, consider making tax-deductible gifts to charity. Not sure which charities? You can set up a donor-advised fund at a public charity and make an irrevocable donation - and get the deduction - in your high-tax year. Then you can recommend which individual charities should get grants from your account over time. For the good of charities, just don't wait forever. See More Collapse In the end, Titus was left with 10 percent of what he initially expected. I never bought a house, never bought the car. Titus vowed that if he came into a windfall again, hed know how to manage it. In 2002, he became a stockbroker at Morgan Stanley, so he could learn about investing while he was getting paid. In 2004, a lot of his clients were asking about Google, the most hotly anticipated IPO since the dot-com debacle. The woman he was dating (now his wife) also worked there and had shares. Google went public in August 2004, and its stock popped 18 percent the first day. By the time her 180-day lockup period expired, the stock had doubled. Its a good thing we couldnt sell on the first day, Titus said. After the lockup, we sold some to cover taxes and put a little nest egg aside, a little emergency money. They made a plan to sell a certain percentage of her holdings every quarter. Although Google has continued to go up, Titus has no regrets. Some got invested in Apple, some in other stocks that have appreciated as much as Google did. We put a down payment on a first house, did some really great things with that money. It paid for our wedding in 2006. Today, Titus is a financial consultant for Charles Schwab in San Francisco, where he often helps clients manage newfound wealth. One thing that worries me ... is that a lot of people havent experienced a downturn like we had in 2000 and 2008, he said. Schwab and other firms generally recommend that investors hold no more than 20 percent of their net worth in a single stock. Titus tries to get clients to agree to sell a certain amount of stock on certain dates, regardless of the price. But many balk. The only clients willing to sell a significant portion are the ones who have been through previous IPOs, Titus said. Andy Rachleff, CEO of Wealthfront, an online money management firm, said that most of his clients with company stock hold it, even though for the vast majority of companies, you would be best served selling as soon as the lockup period ends. He believes employees hold for one of three reasons: They dont know what to do, so they do nothing; they dont want to regret having sold the stock if it goes up; or they feel disloyal. Many employees receive restricted stock units that vest, or become unconditionally owned by the employee, over a number of years. From a tax perspective, this is like getting a cash bonus, Rachleff said. The value of the units on the day they vest is taxable as ordinary income, whether or not the employee can or does sell the stock. If an employee got a $50,000 bonus, I bet less than 10 percent would buy the stock, Rachleff said. But if they get $50,000 in stock, most will hold it, which is the equivalent of buying the stock. Fidelity looked at the selling behavior of employees in stock plans it administers who had restricted stock vest at any time in 2017. On Jan. 1, 2019, about 46 percent still held all of those vested shares, 46 percent had sold them all and 8 percent had sold some. The greater the value of the payout to the employee, the more likely they were to sell, said Fidelitys Emily Cervino. Fidelity didnt break out this data just for newly public companies. My advice to most employees with options or restricted stock is to sell and diversify, said Jay Ritter, a finance professor at the University of Florida who has studied IPO performance. If the company stock or options are a bigger proportion of the employees assets, selling sooner is better. With options, however, the further away the maturity date, the better it is to hold longer. And if the current market price is only a small amount above the exercise price, it is better to wait, since there is more upside potential and relatively little will be lost if the stock price drops. Lauren Kathryn Photography Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes Jamie Still, 40, joined LinkedIn as a web developer in 2007 and was given options to buy stock at a low price. He exercised them and purchased the stock almost immediately, using a strategy known as an 83(b) election that lets you prepay your tax liability on a low valuation. But its not without risk. As LinkedIns IPO in 2011 drew near, Still hired an adviser who helped him with financial and tax advice. They were pretty adamant I diversify, he said. The windfall from LinkedIn dwarfed anything else I had saved up to that point. Still sold all of his LinkedIn stock not long after the lockup period expired. He reinvested in a properly asset-allocated portfolio for my risk profile, he said. He also invested in a local real estate company that was flipping houses, but got out because it was too risky for what I was getting back. He put a large down payment on a condo in San Francisco that he rents out. In 2012, he left LinkedIn to join Lyft, where he got more stock options. In February 2016, Still decided to take a break from Silicon Valley. He bought a catamaran, which he has been sailing around the Caribbean. Lauren Kathryn Photography Hes not sure what hell do when Lyft goes public. I believe in the management, the product, but there are definitely regulatory risks and a colossal competitor, he said. Its the same dilemma I faced before: Do I want all my eggs in one basket? How soon should I liquidate? Looking back, Still says he might have slowly unraveled his LinkedIn position instead of selling all at once. I did quite well, but had I held all the way to the purchase of LinkedIn by Microsoft, I would have done much better, he said. The thing with IPOs, you will never time it quite right. You cant beat yourself up. Still encourages other employees at startups to get tax and financial advice as soon as possible. He was lucky that someone at LinkedIn pulled him aside early on and told him about the 83(b) election, which he also used at Lyft. This can be a good strategy if you join a company when the stock value is very low, but gets riskier as the value goes up. If the company never goes public or gets acquired, you may never be able to sell the stock you have purchased. Not all companies let employees exercise options before they are vested, said Barbara Baksa, executive director of the National Association of Stock Plan Professionals. Employees can also do this with restricted stock but not restricted stock units, she added. Still said hes been very fortunate. If the Lyft IPO is successful, hell keep sailing for a while. If its not, I dont know if I will go back to Silicon Valley or do something completely different. This could all end. I have to keep reminding myself not to depend on Lyfts IPO. Kathleen Pender is a San Francisco Chronicle columnist. Email: kpender@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kathpender 2 1 of 2 Courtesy of San Francisco Police Department Show More Show Less 2 of 2 Courtesy of San Francisco Police Department Show More Show Less A San Francisco man has been arrested in the theft of a case that contained a pistol and ammunition from a baggage claim at San Francisco International Airport in late February, police said Friday. Dermot OSullivan, 48, is accused of swiping a case from the rotating carousel baggage claim at Terminal 3, which was packed with a Glock 9mm pistol, two magazines, 20 rounds of ammunition, two flashlights and a firearm holster on February 17, according to the San Francisco Police Department. Jessica Christian / The Chronicle 2018 A security blunder prompted the delay of more than 20 flights arriving and departing the San Francisco Airport on Saturday morning, after Transportation Security Administration agents mistakenly allowed a bag carrying a loaded gun magazine to pass through security screening. Airport duty manager Chris Morgan said the agents flagged the passengers carry-on as it went through screening, but then they selected the wrong bag for a more thorough search. WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential candidates responded swiftly to the news Friday that special counsel Robert Mueller sent his long-awaited report on the Russia investigation to Attorney General William Barr: Make it public now. Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey, Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts were among the first to urge Barr to release the full findings of Russian interference in the 2016 election and possible obstruction of justice by President Donald Trump. "This report should be made public immediately," Booker said on Twitter. "Attorney General Barr - release the Mueller report to the American public. Now," Warren tweeted. "Special counsel Mueller's report should be made public without any delay. The American people have a right to know its findings," Gillibrand wrote on Twitter. Other congressional Democrats immediately added to the drumbeat of calls for the report to be made available for public consumption. In a joint statement, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., went even further, adding that Barr "must not give President Trump, his lawyers or his staff any 'sneak preview' of special counsel Mueller's findings or evidence, and the White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public." "The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency," they wrote. Republicans, meanwhile, pointed to the development that Mueller had not recommended any further indictments in his final report, according to a senior Justice Department official, as backing up Trump's contention of no collusion. Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., the No. 2 House Republican, said, "the reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what we've known all along: there was never any collusion with Russia." Other congressional Republicans urged patience to allow Barr to digest Mueller's findings and advocated for transparency, but not necessarily a full release. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Barr "needs the time" to review it. "The attorney general has said he intends to provide as much information as possible," McConnell said. "As I have said previously, I sincerely hope he will do so as soon as he can, and with as much openness and transparency as possible." Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said he will work "to ensure as much transparency as possible, consistent with the law." 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. Reactions from other would-be challengers to Trump reiterated calls to publicize the report. Sen. Kamala D. Harris, D-Calif., another presidential candidate, called for Barr to testify "under oath about the investigation and its findings, and provide all underlying materials to the appropriate congressional committees." "This is about securing American democracy and protecting voters' confidence in our elections and our system of government," Harris said. Additionally, Harris's campaign emailed supporters an online petition to "demand" Barr release the report and testify. Beto O'Rourke tweeted: "Release the Mueller report to the American people." And in a statement, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., quoted Trump, who said this week that the public should see the report. "As Donald Trump said, 'Let it come out.' I call on the Trump administration to make Special Counsel Mueller's full report public as soon as possible," Sanders said. "No one, including the president, is above the law." Cologne/Bonn Airport : Motorists overlook and damage new gates Cologne/Bonn Since Friday morning, motorists have had to collect a ticket and pass through gates in front of the terminals at Cologne/Bonn Airport. By Friday afternoon, five gates had already been damaged. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken No more free access to the terminals at Cologne/Bonn Airport. On Friday morning at around 10:15 a.m., a new gate system went into operation to improve traffic flow in front of the terminals. But all did not go smoothly as motorists approached the gates, which can be approached from six lanes. By the afternoon, five drivers had already driven through the gates at the entrance. "I simply didn't notice the barrier," explained one driver, who says he drives passengers to the airport every day. Airport staff, dressed in reflective clothing, were on hand to monitor the functioning of the new gate system and replaced the damaged gates with new ones after a short time. Airport spokesman Alexander Weise said the experience prompted them to improve gate visibility by applying contrasting foil to them. "We are in the start-up phase, there is certainly still room for improvement," he said. In general, however, he was satisfied with the start: "There was no traffic congestion on the access roads or queues at the entrance. The gate barrier system is part of a new traffic concept at the airport. Motorists can now stop directly in front of the terminals for ten minutes free of charge. If they stay in the area for up to 15 minutes longer, they have to pay five euros, or twelve euros for up to 30 minutes - either at one of the new automatic pay stations or directly at the exit. Goal is to improve traffic flow The airport erected the gate system to improve traffic flow and safety for all road users. Weise concluded that this had been achieved on the first day. He explained that motorists had often double parked or blocked restricted areas, lanes and escape routes. Another part of the new concept provides long distance buses with access to Parkhaus 2 (Parking garage 2) so they turn off before the gate system and do not need to use the road passing directly in front of the terminals. Motorists in front of the terminals showed understanding for the new concept: "You have to get used to it," said a man from Euskirchen who dropped off a friend. "It's not terrible and it's not a disadvantage." Like him, another motorist also felt that the ten-minutes of free parking was not too short: "Actually, that's enough to drop someone off or pick them up," he said and drove off. "This is good for us, as fewer private cars are driving here now," said taxi driver Mohsen Masrori. For him and his Cologne counterparts, they dont have to worry about the gate. They are allowed to wait up to two hours for customers in their own holding areas at the terminals. For taxi drivers from surrounding communities and from Bonn, on the other hand, there is a time limit of 15 minutes, in which case they also have to pay five euros for the first quarter of an hour of exceeding the time limit. Claus Lenz, member of the executive board of the Bonn taxi headquarters, was angry about this. "The fees are very hefty", he said in the GA interview. With additional personnel, the airport intends to continue monitoring the new system in the coming days, Weise explained. Further adaptations or improvements will be carried out as necessary. Closures will result in massive disruptions : Work at Bonn Central Station will squeeze out passengers Bonn Bonn Central Station might well be a place to be avoided at the end of June and some passengers will have no choice in the matter. Many trains and trams will be diverted for a week due to ongoing renovations and reconstruction. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken Platform 1 in Bonn's central train station has been closed since November of 2016 due to repair work on the roof of the hall. Now railway customers will face even further disruptions at the end of June. Between June 26 and July 1, the main station will be practically closed altogether. This was announced on Friday by Oliver Krauss, member of the CDU state parliament. According to Krauss, long-distance trains and freight trains will be completely diverted. The construction measures will be carried out in June because extensive construction work is already taking place at Cologne Central Station during the Easter holidays. According to current planning, only the regional express RE 5 (Wesel-Koln-Bonn-Koblenz) will stop in Bonn along with tram line S 23 (Bonn-Rheinbach-Euskirchen) during the construction period. All other local rail lines will only service the stops before and after Bonn. Line RB 48 (Bonn-Koln-Wuppertal) will only run between Cologne and Wuppertal. According to Krauss, the section between Cologne Central Station and Bonn will not be served by RB 48 during that week at the end of June. The RB 26 from Cologne will only go to Roisdorf and coming from Mainz/Koblenz it will only go to Bad Godesberg as will the Ahr Valley railway (RB 30). According to Oliver Krauss, Deutsche Bahn has announced that it will combine several projects in order to minimize disruptions for passengers. In Bonn, work will be done on the platforms at the central station and there will be continued renovations on the roof of the hall. Special Counsel Robert Mueller delivered a long-awaited and reportedly comprehensive final report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election to Attorney General William Barr on Friday. Given the gravity of the questions considered by Muellers team namely, whether Donald Trumps campaign colluded with a foreign government and whether the president obstructed the federal investigation into the matter the report should be made available to Congress and the public in short order. The special counsel regulations give the attorney general broad discretion over how much of the confidential report to reveal, and Barr wrote in a letter to lawmakers Friday that he would advise them only of its principal conclusions in the coming days. In light of Trumps two-year campaign to discredit and undermine the investigation and Barrs documented hostility to crucial aspects of the probe, that wont be enough. Despite the presidents worst efforts, Mueller has a sterling reputation as an impartial law enforcement professional whose judgment can be trusted, hence the former FBI directors appointment to the position by Trumps handpicked Republican deputy attorney general, Rod Rosenstein. Barr, by contrast, volunteered his skepticism about the probe at length before Trump nominated him, particularly as to whether a president can be guilty of obstruction of justice, one of the key questions Mueller investigated. That hardly inspires confidence in his ability to faithfully convey the special counsels conclusions short of disclosing them in full. Barr told senators during his confirmation hearing that he would reveal as much as possible about the special counsels report. Given that the regulations leave that decision largely to the attorney general, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff told The Chronicles editorial board Friday, that means all of it. Schiff, D-Burbank, added that Congress has ample recourse if Barr isnt forthcoming about both the report and the underlying evidence. The attorney general has discretion to do what he wants, he said. Its within our discretion to subpoena the report, subpoena Bob Mueller. As Schiff noted, there is already evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Kremlin representatives as well as an extensive record of efforts to hamper the investigation by Trump and his associates. Muellers report is expected to illuminate the extent of the presidents involvement and whether crimes were committed beyond those already documented by his teams indictments, guilty pleas, and convictions affecting six Trump associates and dozens of Russian nationals. Many more questions about the presidents conduct are the province of other investigations. Federal prosecutors in New York have accused him of orchestrating illegal payoffs to alleged mistresses, for example, while House committees are conducting broader inquiries into his finances and more. Because Muellers investigation goes to the heart of the most troubling possibilities raised by a compromised election, it has been the most closely watched of all. For the same reason, its conclusions must not be hidden from view. 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. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern issued an immediate ban on automatic and semiautomatic weapons like the ones used to senselessly slaughter 50 people in New Zealand. What will it take for leaders in this country to demonstrate the same political courage? Lorne Evje, Hercules The ultimate silence I found a frightening letter in Thursdays Chronicle suggesting a new use for the death penalty. Citing the shooter in New Zealand, the author suggests that the death penalty may be justified to prevent the shooter from sitting in prison, spewing his vitriol to other inmates. Can there be a more frightening use of the death penalty than to shut someone up? By all means, let us oppose hate speech, but please, lets take killing someone off the table as a means of doing so! Charlie Sobeck, San Jose Expandible jeans Concerning Trading again (Daily Briefing, March 21): Now that Levis is being publicly traded on the stock market again, heres a suggestion for a new product that this over-150-year-old company can add to its numbered denim jeans: Levis Multitasker 045. These jeans, with a model number to match that of the current White House occupant, could offer extra-wide waist sizes and stretchable denim for those who like to enjoy junk food while watching endless hours of television and engaging in Twitter storms. Sochi Yamamoto, Redwood City Some omission The word some is missing in todays discussions. Terrorists are streaming over our borders. Capital punishment does not deter crime. Case in point: Some of those streaming across our borders are terrorists. Most, however are not. Some criminals are reluctant to kill because of the death penalty; most are not. Interestingly, if the number of somes exceeds the number of those executed, compassion suggests the death penalty be implemented to keep that small number of crime victims from being killed. Lillian Lee, San Francisco Robot baristas? No! Ever heard of a vending machine? Thats another name for a robot barista. This generation of entrepreneurs all think that their ideas are new. To the Millennials maybe, because they havent seen them before. But to those of us who have tasted vending machine coffee, we say thumbs down! Same goes for Amazons cashier-less stores and online shopping (catalog shopping). Why do Jeff Bezos and tech companies want to eliminate people from the equation? So they can line their pockets with more profits. Even banks have been eliminating human tellers and are gradually forcing customers to use ATMs and computers, sans human contact. Then we wonder why the number of homeless people has multiplied over the years. There comes a point when we should say enough of robots and go back to more personalized services. Lets employ humans and not robots. Angelica Gordon, Vallejo Art of the story Regarding The art of pushing BARTs buttons (Bay Area, March 10): Its always such a pleasure when you realize youre reading a piece by Steve Rubenstein. First, he gets it right. As a former Muni operator, I think I can say that his depiction of the BART drivers workday was spot on. Second, he never fails to crack me up somewhere along the line. His punch line: ... the need that people have to go to work is not BARTs fault. Brilliant. Peter Smalley, Berkeley Sen. Elizabeth Warrens proposal to break up big tech doesnt go far enough. It doesnt deal with the real root of the problem: There is a rottenness in tech such that no matter how much we break it apart, it will still be there. Facebooks inability to take down the horrid 17-minute video of the massacre in New Zealand, which was then picked up by YouTube and run endlessly on other platforms, is stark testimony to the fact that tech is totally out of control. It has demonstrated repeatedly that its lacking in any true sense of social responsibility. Social media companies need to be shut down and totally reconfigured. We need people with a clear sense of social conscience and the appropriate maturity to start new companies and to manage them ethically. If responsibility is not there from the very beginning, then we should have learned by now that it will not somehow emerge miraculously. Ian Mitroff, Berkeley Mystical services Regarding App set to disrupt astrology sector (Business, March 21): According to the article, in 2018, Americans spent $2.2 billion on astrology and related mystical services. Now, those Americans will be able to engage in these activities via an app, proving once again that P.T. Barnum got it right: There is a sucker born every minute. Murray Suid, Inverness Dont plunder the moon Regarding Moon rocks inspire hope for lunar living (Page 1, March 22): So the ultimate goal of examining some nearly 50-year-old moon rocks is to use Earths natural satellite to locate and squeeze out water, mine materials and pave the way for future habitation? Havent we already done that with near disastrous results on our own planet? I hope scientists figure out how to clean up the mess that mankind has made of Earth before we try to plunder and colonize our moon. Julian Grant, Pacifica Meghan McCains retort Regarding President renews attacks on McCain (March 20): An understandable gut response from Meghan McCain might be to call President Trump the lying narcissistic con man that he is. For its restraint, however, Meghans retort No one will ever love you the way they loved my father. may more likely have a sobering impact upon its target because the target knows deep down she speaks truth, an uncomfortable realization, but probably buried too deep under tons of delusion to retrieve. Frank Hochfeld, Albany Hamilton Gate Bridge Can it be true? The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation Districts board of directors voted to raise tolls on this famed expansion to $9.75? If so, lets rename this roadway (while it costs this new amount) for the guy whose face graces the $10 bill and call it the Hamilton Gate Bridge. If that name is good enough for an expensive Broadway show now playing in our city, it will also be good enough for a soon-to-be expensive-to-cross iconic bridge. Hiram Fletcher, San Francisco Effective programs I am a volunteer with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. Im writing in response to your recent series Vanishing Violence (March 22) in which you detail the drop in youth violence while highlighting the fact that our expenses detaining youth offenders have increased between 29 and 214 percent since 2011. Juvenile detention needs to be re-examined, and the funding saved should be spent on community-based violence prevention and intervention strategies, including local programs that receive funding from the California Violence Intervention and Prevention fund. I was in Sacramento on Monday with over 300 volunteers with Moms Demand Action, advocating for increased funding for CalVIP. The contributions of CalVIP grantee YouthAlive! were mentioned in your article. As your series noted, they have made tremendous strides in reducing youth violence. Theyve had such success that they are now reaching beyond youths to young adults. Programs like these save the state substantial money in health care, law enforcement and criminal justice: Its really a no-brainer to expand their funding to reach more communities and demographics. Nichole Hsu, Danville Sen. Bernie Sanders is doing a few things differently in his second run for president. For one, hes talking about himself. The 77-year-old Vermont independent who will hold a rally Sunday at Fort Mason in San Francisco now peppers speeches and fundraising pitches with stories about how his lower-middle-class upbringing in Brooklyn shaped the policies hes championed for decades. He talks about his father, a Polish Jew, who immigrated to America without a nickel in his pocket when he was 17. Sanders rarely mentioned any personal details during his 2016 campaign. His advisers hope the humanizing touches will help, even though this approach is a little outside of his comfort zone, said Fremont Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna, a co-chair of Sanders presidential campaign. Khanna said he and others urged Sanders to include more of his life story because it was really compelling. Its the story of an underdog, Khanna said. He always says, Oh, you guys tell my story. He believes politics should be about ideas. He doesnt want to trade on his biography. But I think it makes him far more relatable to folks. It is one of several differences between Sanders 2016 campaign and this years version. Insiders say this campaign is more organized than the one that sneaked up on Hillary Clinton. Its leadership is more diverse. And Sanders is broadening his 2016 talking points to appeal to voters who think the justice system is stacked against racial minorities. Paul Chinn / The Chronicle 2018 But the electoral landscape has also changed dramatically for Sanders. Hes not facing one competitor for the Democratic nomination there are 14, perhaps with more to come. And hes not the insurgent outsider anymore. Sanders isnt the only candidate supporting ideas like a single-payer health care plan several of his rivals are, too. Changes for Sanders include: His organization: Last time it was a lot of broken field running, said RoseAnn DeMoro, the former head of the National Nurses United union and a longtime Sanders confidant. Bernie took himself by surprise. ... But this time, he is deadly serious he can win. Insiders say there is a more professional air to the campaign. Sanders didnt even have a pollster until a couple of months before the Iowa caucuses in 2016. For this run, hes already got one. Sanders has diversified his staff after criticism that his 2016 organization was too white and male. His top advisers include Khanna, the son of Indian immigrants, and former Ohio legislator Nina Turner, who is African American. His campaign manager is Faiz Shakir, a Pakistani American who most recently was the political director of the American Civil Liberties Union. His political director is Analilia Mejia, a longtime community and labor organizer whose mother was an undocumented immigrant from Colombia. Theres clear difference in his staffing. Hes bringing on many heavy hitters including many women and people of color and thats impacting how hes taking his core economic message and working to make it more inclusive, said Adam Green, co-founder of the million-member Progressive Change Campaign Committee, which has endorsed Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts for president. Paul Chinn / The Chronicle 2018 It wasnt just Sanders staffers who were overwhelmingly white in 2016 so were his voters. The senators failure to connect with African Americans gave Clinton a free ride through Southern states and a huge pile of delegates. In a speech this month in North Charleston, S.C. an early primary state where 60 percent of the Democratic electorate is African American Sanders added something he didnt often say in 2016. Our campaign is about fundamentally ending the disparity of wealth, income and power in this country, he said. But as we do that, we must also address the disparity within the disparity the outrageous levels of racial disparity that currently exist. A different challenge: In 2016, Sanders could portray himself as an underdog taking on Clinton, the establishment candidate who had vastly more name recognition, money and a network of donors and supporters across the country. Now, at least pending former Vice President Joe Bidens expected entry in the race, Sanders is the front-runner. He said he raised more than $5.9 million in the first 24 hours after he announced his candidacy in February, tops in the self-reporting field until former Rep. Beto ORourke claimed a $6.1 million first-day haul this month. Paul Chinn / The Chronicle 2018 This time around, Sanders is the candidate with a 50-state infrastructure of volunteers, small donors and identified supporters, said former San Francisco Supervisor Jane Kim, a Sanders supporter who is not affiliated with the campaign. The downside: Sanders is less of an unknown this time, so its harder for him to campaign as the fresh new face, said Danielle Vinson, a professor of political science at Furman University in South Carolina. The issues: Sanders has company. Several of his new competitors are staking out the positions he had to himself in 2016. Sens. Warren, Kamala Harris of California and Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, among others, support Medicare for All. Harris is among those who back free public college tuition. There are other people who claim the same progressive lane that he did and theyre younger and fresher faces, said Dennis Goldford, a political science professor at Drake University in Iowa. But his core supporters say Sanders strength is that hes held these progressive positions for decades. Its hard not to be a bit wary of people who know how the wind is blowing and now are blowing with it, said Norman Solomon, an author and activist who coordinates the Bernie Delegates Network 1,200 people who served as Sanders delegates to the 2016 Democratic National Convention. Bernie is part of movements that create the wind, Solomon said. Bernie is not a wind sock. Getting personal: At times in 2016, Sanders was so on message that no matter the question, he would respond with something about the millionaires and billionaires who are rigging the system, Goldford said. Now, Sanders recognizes that Americans want to have a sense that they know who the president is, that they can trust this person to speak for who they are, Goldford said. The messenger is at least as important as the message. Beto ORourke may be all messenger and no message. And last time, Sanders was all message. So this time, Sanders is talking about how his family lived paycheck to paycheck. In a speech this month in South Carolina, he took a dig at President Trumps privileged background by pointing out that I did not come from a family that gave me a $200,000 allowance every year beginning at the age of 3. As I recall, my allowance was 25 cents a week, about $12 a year. It is a way for him to keep pace with rival candidates like Harris and Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, who infuse their speeches with autobiographical touches. Hes got to stay afloat with those guys, said Michael Ceraso, who ran Sanders California campaign until shortly before the 2016 primary. And hes got to retail politics. Yes, he can still have his rallies, but Bernie needs to relate to the people, too. Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli Special Counsel Robert Muellers report could affect more than President Trumps re-election it also could reshape the Democratic presidential primary. The still-unknown contents of the report as well as the outcome of several other federal and state investigations into Trump, his family and his campaign staff will go a long way toward determining whether Trump gets four more years in the White House. But there is a political component, too. Key for both Trump and the 2020 Democrats will be how they navigate the political minefield around the expected legal tussles, leaks, revelations, bombshells and exonerations related to the report. The guiding principle is simple: Dont overplay your hand. Ultimately, I think theres a possibility of exhaustion by voters, said Katie Merrill, a veteran Democratic strategist who advised Fight Back California, a super PAC focused on flipping Republican House districts in last years midterm races. Theres a possibility that people dont understand the full story of whats at stake here, especially if the report comes out in dribs and drabs, Merrill said. That is why it is important that the (Mueller) report is released and the House investigations lay it out in a coherent fashion so they can show what actually happened. That could actually help the candidates. That is one reason that every Democrat running for the White House and elected Democrats from Speaker Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco on down are urging Attorney General Robert Barr to release the entire Mueller report. Theyre hoping the report contains new information that may be damaging to Trump, even if Mueller did not recommend indicting the president as part of his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Plus, Democrats could use any hearings to better weave the details from other investigations into a cohesive anti-Trump narrative. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff, D-Burbank, said Muellers report may not contain information about whether the president or those around him were compromised by a foreign power like Russia, with whom Trump had business dealings while he was running for president. The special counsel may take the view that theres no crime in compromising the country, Schiff said Friday on The Chronicles Its All Political podcast. Regardless, it needs to be exposed, because the Congress may need to take action to protect the country. And the American people should certainly know if the president is acting in his financial interests and not in their behalf. Such details could provide fodder for continuing investigations of Trump and his associates in the Democrat-controlled House. It was the nationally televised Watergate hearings that helped to turn public sentiment against President Richard Nixon, who eventually resigned in August 1974. But the Democrats need to be careful, some analysts say. If they lean too hard and too long on Trump without having a lot of new evidence, it could paint Trump as a more sympathetic figure when the 2020 campaign season kicks into gear. One reason Democrats flipped 40 House seats last year is that they focused not on bashing Trump, but on kitchen-table issues that voters cared more about. According to the Wesleyan Media Project, which analyzes political advertising, 55 percent of the pro-Democrat ads that ran last year were about health care. If there are no new bombshells in Muellers report, Democrats would be smart to drop it and move on, because there are a million other things to go after Trump on, said John Thomas, a GOP pollster and consultant in Los Angeles. Whats fascinating about our politics today is that Trump is not a sympathetic character, Thomas said. But if the Dems go down this road, and they dont have anything on him, Trump can play the sympathy card and portray himself as the victim. He could bolster his approval numbers a couple of points. And thats all he might need to get re-elected. Already, the publics appetite for impeachment is waning. A CNN poll released last week found support for impeachment among Democrats had dropped from 80 percent to 68 percent since December, with the national number for all adults falling from 43 percent to 36 percent. Schiff said that absent some new revelation in Muellers report, impeaching Trump should be off the table. Because there probably arent the votes in the GOP-dominated Senate to support impeaching Trump, Schiff said, it is not worth putting the country through a racking impeachment if its not going to be a success. That attitude is wrong, said Allan Lichtman, a professor of history at American University and the author of The Case for Impeachment. It is a complete abdication of responsibility for oversight by the Democrats. Shame. Shame Shame, Lichtman said Saturday. It is not their responsibility to look into a crystal ball and see how many votes are in the Senate. Lichtman said Democratic presidential candidates could benefit from a prolonged investigation of Trump. The White House aspirants could let House Democrats do the grunt work of investigating Trump while they talk about their positive vision for the country, said Lichtman, who has predicted nearly every U.S. president since 1984, including Trump, by applying a set of standards in another one of his books, The Keys to the White House: A Surefire Guide to Predicting the Next President. One of Lichtmans keys is whether the incumbent administration is untainted by major scandal. If Trump were found to be working with Russia to rig the election, that would probably turn the scandal key, Lichtman said. In their investigations, Democrats might have to go beyond the initial conclusions and look deeper into the report to make their points about Trump. Talking about Trump possibly being compromised by Russia is too nuanced an argument to make unless there is direct evidence of it, like an email, said Thomas, the Republican pollster. Democrats can cherry-pick quotes out of the report, but if theres not a story behind it, it fuels Trumps narrative that (the investigation) was a witch hunt, a hoax, he said. Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli An unusually large influx of gray whales into San Francisco Bay this year has thrilled boaters, beachgoers and tourists along Crissy Field, Angel Island and other shoreline locations, but the strange behavior and apparent poor condition of the magnificent sea creatures has marine biologists worried. Four whales, all between 25 and 40 feet long, were spotted in the bay Thursday, a remarkable occurrence in any other year. But this year, it was merely the latest in a constant stream of leviathans entering the estuary since last month. Whales have been seen in the bay every day since Feb. 17 and are hanging out there for long periods of time. The behavior is abnormal for a species that generally makes a beeline from Mexico for Alaska this time of year, and some believe it is indicative of a desperate search for food. Definitely its unusual, said Bill Keener, a marine biologist with Golden Gate Cetacean Research, who identified one whale that has been hanging out in the bay for more than a month. We see two or three a year come into the bay and stay a day or two. All of a sudden we have multiple whales. The whale bonanza isnt necessarily a problem, according to marine biologists, but a major die-off occurred the last time scientists saw this many whales in the bay. There have been other disturbing signs, too. The females arrived later than usual this season to the lagoons in Mexico, where they nested and gave birth to fewer calves than normal. More of them than average also died or appeared emaciated, according to researchers. Then one of two whale carcasses found in the bay last week died of severe malnutrition, the Marine Mammal Center and California Academy of Sciences said. A cause of death could not be determined for the second. Both were 23-year-old females. Researchers are afraid the whales are not finding enough food to sustain them through the year because the retreating ice fields at their feeding grounds in the Arctic are forcing them to swim farther to find prey. This, in turn, means theyre not fully nourished when they head south again, causing a lower birth rate and forcing the famished beasts to stop for snacks as they pass San Francisco again on their way north. In recent years, biologists have observed cases of young gray whales in poor body condition, Dr. Padraig Duignan, the chief research pathologist at the mammal center, said in a statement after the necropsies. This species faces the longest annual migration of any whale on Earth. Its likely that after not feeding this winter, the animals dont have enough reserves built up to survive the journey north. The situation is troubling, but a lot of whales cavorting in the bay doesnt necessarily mean there is an emergency, said Frances Gulland, a marine biologist with the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission. Gulland performed the two necropsies, which she said did not definitively point to a lack of food as the problem. The emaciated whale had entanglement scars, she said, meaning it could have starved as a result of being trapped in fishing gear. The other whale had a large propeller wound, she said. It could be an early warning or it could be a little blip. At this point, its not as if there are hundreds of thin whales dying of starvation, Gulland said. But Im definitely on the alert. All the whale researchers should be paying attention and getting as much data as we can. The cetaceans, known as Eastern North Pacific Gray Whales, generally leave their breeding grounds in Baja California and migrate with their calves from Mexico to the Arctic between February and May. They generally dont eat during the northern migration and then feed in Alaska throughout the summer before turning around for the return voyage between November and January. Gray whales are one of conservations major success stories after being hunted almost to extinction over the past 200 years. A whaling station existed in Point Richmond until the 1960s. There were only about 4,000 gray whales in existence in the 1930s, but, because of bans on whale hunting, the population has steadily rebounded since then. In 1999, there were 26,600, according to the National Marine Mammal Laboratory in Seattle, and then a huge die-off occurred. In 1999 and 2000, the population declined about 20 percent, to 18,000. At least 40 dead gray whales were found on beaches in the Bay Area in those two years. The population has again recovered, and now there are an estimated 25,000 North Pacific grays, which is close to their historic population. 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. What is alarming some scientists is that the last time this many gray whales were seen entering the Golden Gate was in 1999, just when the big die-off was getting under way. John Calambokidis, a senior research biologist with Cascadia Research in Olympia, Wash., said the population may have simply reached carrying capacity. We may be facing another situation where they have reached the limit of their food supply, said Calambokidis, who added that an unusually large number of skinny whales have also been seen in Puget Sound. This is the tail end of their seasonal fast, where they have not been eating for three or four months and they may be desperate. The big mammals clearly face many perils. They are often hit by ships as many as 9,000 large vessels pass through the Golden Gate every year or get entangled in fishing gear. Killer whales also patrol Monterey Bay and ambush mothers and their calves as the leviathans attempt to cross a deep-water canyon there. The question is to what degree are human factors playing a role in limiting their food supply. It has been well-documented that the Arctic ice has been retreating as a result of climate change. Scientists believe gray whales, which feed on the edge of the ice shelf, may have been forced to swim farther and cut short their feeding time because of it, thereby reducing the number of calves born the following year. I absolutely think its something we should be concerned about, Calambokidis said. Whenever you see an increased number of strandings, animals in unusual areas, animals in poor nutritional condition, these are things that we want to investigate. Peter Fimrite is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: pfimrite@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @pfimrite Despite criticisms, Beijing has been steadily gathering support for its Belt and Road initiative, which aims to weave a network of ports, bridges and power plants linking China with Africa, Europe and beyond. Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte signed a memorandum of understanding Saturday supporting the initiative during a visit to Italy by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who has made it a signature policy of his administration. Italys involvement gives China a crucial inroad into western Europe and a symbolic boost in its economic tug-of-war with the United States. Italy is the first member of the G-7, a group of seven major economies that includes the United States, to join Belt and Road, following Portugals embrace of the initiative in December. It appears to be driven partly by hopes that Chinese investment in Italys ports might help revive the countrys traditional role as a key link in trade between the East and West. Conte and Xi were present during a ceremony in Rome where 29 separate protocols of the memorandum were signed by members of both governments, with the flags of China, Italy and the European Union behind them. The Belt and Road program is a loosely defined umbrella for predominantly China-financed and usually China-built projects in more than 60 countries from the South Pacific through Asia to Africa and Europe. As President Trump squares off with China over trade and other issues, gaining Italys support is a coup for Beijing. Its important for the Xi administration to show that you have Portugal and Italy, two well-known countries in western Europe breaking ranks with the western alliance in BRI, said Willy Lam, an adjunct professor of China studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. China says some 150 countries have signed Belt and Road related agreements since the programs launch more than five years ago. A major conference is planned next month in Beijing, marking further expansion of the initiative. Beijing has marketed the initiative as a way to give some of the worlds neediest countries a leg up, helping them gain access to more trade and investment. But it also helps Chinese companies tap new markets for their products while, inevitably, helping Beijing amass greater global influence. Some governments including the United States, Japan and India worry that Beijing is trying to build a China-centered sphere of influence that would undermine their own sway, pulling developing nations into debt traps that would give China ever-more control over their territories and economies. China already has made inroads in Eastern Europe through investments in railways, ports and steel mills. Thats stirred fears of a growing divide within the 28-member European Union between its wealthier and poorer members. Some also worry Chinese-led projects might undercut the blocs standards on transparency. As the U.S. takes on long-standing complaints of Chinese intellectual property theft and unfair trade practices, a Chinese win in Italy could boost Beijings arguments that it is ultimately a force for good in the global economy. 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. Chinas official position is that Belt and Road is solely an economic initiative with no political motives. Xi said in a speech last year that even as China moves closer to the center of the world stage, it will never seek hegemony. The Belt and Road Initiative in nature is an economic strategy, said Chu Yin, a researcher at the Center for China and Globalization, a think tank in Beijing affiliated with the government and with the ruling Communist Party. China has no intention to become a global hegemon and nor does China have such an ability, he said. Launched in 2013, the initiative is at heart a business venture, not aid. China wants to attract non-Chinese investors but that has happened only on a few of the hundreds of projects, which range from oil drilling in Siberia to construction of ports in Southeast Asia, railways in Eastern Europe and power plants in the Middle East. Christopher Bodeen and Ken Moritsugu are Associated Press writers. March Fong Eu, who was the first Asian American in the United States to serve in a state Legislature, will have the secretary of state building in Sacramento named after her. It will be the first state building to be named after an Asian-American woman. After Monday, the secretary of state's office at 1500 11th St. in Sacramento will be housed in the March Fong Eu Secretary of State Building. Eu was a Democrat who served four terms in the state Assembly, from 1966 to 1974. In 1974, she was elected to serve as California's secretary of state, where she served until 1994. She died in 2017 at the age of 95. "When she was secretary, all the divisions of the secretary of state's office hadn't been under the same roof in decades," Caren Daniels Lagomarsino, Eu's longtime press spokesperson, told Berkeley News. Eu studied dentistry at UC Berkeley before earning a master's degree from Mills College. "The building was a longtime goal of March Fong Eu. It's kind of a shame she never got to work in it; during her time, the department was spread out over three different buildings." But Eu had the idea to fund the building that currently houses the California Department of State in her early years as the state's secretary of state. She pushed the strategy of using state bonds to fund the project that eventually led to the state building consolidating to its current location. The building didn't open, though, until Eu had already moved on to her appointment as ambassador to Micronesia under then-President Bill Clinton. "When March was first elected, the office headquarters was located in rented space in old town, then rented space in the public market building," Michael Gagan, who worked for Eu in both the assembly and in the secretary of state's office, told Berkeley News. "At the first budget meeting we had with Jerry, she wanted to fund the state archives, to beef up the elections division and increase the staffing in the business division because we were backlogged there. Jerry was a penny-pincher, of course, and wasn't sympathetic." Eu gained national press coverage in 1974, when she smashed a toilet on the steps of the state Capitol in protest of pay toilets in pubic buildings. She argued at the time that pay toilets "symbolized secondhand status for women when there was no charge at urinals." Eventually, she won that fight when then-Gov. Ronald Reagan signed a bill banning public pay toilets. The push to name the state building after Eu came from Alex Padilla, the current secretary of state, who announced that he would try to get the building named after her at Eu's memorial service in January 2018. He said that Eu was an inspiration to him, the son of Mexican immigrants. "There was an audible gasp," said Gagan, who will emcee Monday's event. "It was such a nice gesture. All of us who worked for March thought it was a fabulous idea." San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi died from a mixture of cocaine and alcohol, which caused his already-damaged heart to stop, the city medical examiner has concluded. The San Francisco Medical Examiners Office released the autopsy report on Adachis death late Friday, one month after the 59-year-old public defender collapsed in an apartment on Telegraph Hill and was later pronounced dead at a hospital. The cause of death is acute mixed drug toxicity with cocaine and ethanol, with hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease as a contributing factor, Assistant Medical Examiner Ellen Moffatt wrote in the report. Based on the history, autopsy, microscopic and toxicology finding, the manner of death is accident. The public defenders office declined to comment on the report. Out of respect for the family, our office is not going to comment on what we believe is a private medical matter, said Katy St. Clair, a spokeswoman for the office. The report sheds new light on the final moments of the public defender, who died on Feb. 22. His unexpected death shocked city officials, who had worked closely with him during his 17 years as public defender. Many city leaders praised his work as a relentless defender of indigent clients, a police watchdog and a criminal justice reformer. Few, though, wanted to comment on Fridays autopsy results. Supervisor Sandra Lee Fewer, who called for a public hearing after a police report was leaked to the media after Adachis death, said Friday, What people do in their personal lives and in their own personal time is private. As a public official, I know that it is hard to have a private life, she said. But the fact that you could not even have privacy after death is also very disturbing. Mayor London Breed, a longtime friend of Adachis, declined to comment. The 25-page autopsy report details Adachis final moments in dispassionate detail. It includes interviews with witnesses and police, details about Adachis anatomy, as well as a toxicology report that found cocaine, alcohol, and benzodiazepines in his system. Benzodiazepines, such as Valium or Xanax, are widely prescribed sedatives. It began when paramedics were called to an apartment at 46 Telegraph Place at the base of Telegraph Hill at about 5:45 p.m. on Feb. 22, where they found Adachi unconscious. Paramedics and Fire Department personnel reported that witnesses at the scene stated that the subject had been acting strange and unlike himself, and grinding his teeth before collapsing, Moffatt wrote. Emergency services found the subject unresponsive on the floor of the bedroom. Paramedics began CPR and twice intubated Adachi to clear his airway, but he remained unconscious, the report states. They also tried unsuccessfully to revive him with electric shocks and administered epinephrine and Narcan, which reverses the effects of opioid-based narcotics. No opiates were found in his system. They rushed Adachi to California Pacific Medical Centers Pacific Campus, where he was pronounced dead at 6:54 p.m. Staff there contacted Adachis cousin, who called his wife, Mutsuko Adachi, who rushed to the hospital, according to the report. Adachis wife told investigators she last saw him around 6 a.m. when he left home that morning to go to the gym, Moffatt said. His wife said he had no known medical problems and was not taking any medications to her knowledge. She said he never used illegal drugs. Investigators from the medical examiners office and Police Department headed to the apartment to collect evidence and try to interview a woman who first called 911 from Adachis phone. According to a police report on the incident previously reviewed by The Chronicle, investigators interviewed a real estate agent, Susan Kurtz, who is a longtime friend of Adachis. She told them she allowed Adachi to use the apartment which is typically unoccupied for a couple of days. The medical examiners office learned Adachi had been with a different woman that night. Kurtz had told police she believed the womans name is Catalina. Sgt. Scott Warnke, an inspector with the homicide unit, later interviewed the woman. She told police she had spent the day with Adachi, starting in the morning and had breakfast about 11 a.m., the report states. Mr. Adachi seemed to be in his usual state of good health and ate well. At some point they consumed some edibles (cannabis). Around 4 p.m., they went to a North Beach restaurant and had dinner. At dinner the two drank a glass or two of Champagne, and Mr. Adachi ate well but complained of upper abdominal pain and began sweating profusely, Moffatt wrote. The two left the restaurant and headed to the Telegraph Hill apartment, where Adachi took an ibuprofen and continued to have severe abdominal pain and sweating and eventually took off his clothes (with the exception of his underwear) and got into bed because he felt ill, the report states. Adachis companion asked if he would like to go to the hospital, but he refused, so the woman then went to a corner store to purchase heartburn relief medication and returned to find Adachi still in pain, investigators said. Adachi then became very confused and shortly after became unresponsive, Moffatt wrote. She called 911 and was instructed to perform CPR. A toxicology report later found small amounts of alcohol, cocaine, as well as benzodiazepines in his system. The levels of these substance in the blood are most consistent with them having been taken at some point during the day, with metabolism occurring over the subsequent hours, Moffatt wrote. The heart, with a significant amount of coronary artery disease and fibrosis already present, would have worked even harder with stimulant substances such as ethanol and cocaine in Mr. Adachis system. Adachis already compromised heart could no longer take the added stress and seized up around the time he was having dinner, Moffatt found. Hours later, he was pronounced dead. Breed has since appointed Mano Raju, a former managing attorney in the public defenders offices felony unit, as the new public defender. Raju told The Chronicle he intends to run for the position in November. San Francisco Chronicle staff writers Trisha Thadani and Lauren Hernandez contributed to this report. Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky A detailed fossil of the newly identified Daihua sanqiong. Credit: Yang Zhao One of the ocean's little known carnivores has been allocated a new place in the evolutionary tree of life after scientists discovered its unmistakable resemblance with other sea-floor dwelling creatures. Comb jellies occupy a pivotal place in the history of animal evolution with some arguing that they were among the first animals to evolve. Now an international team of palaeontologists have found fossil evidence that proves comb jellies are related to ancestors that sat on the sea floor with polyp-like tentacles.As reported today in Current Biology, researchers from the University of Bristol, Yunnan University in China and London's Natural History Museum, compared a 520 million-year-old fossil with fossils of a similar skeletal structure and found that all evolved from the same ancestors.The fossil, set in a yellow and olive coloured mudstone and resembling a flower, was found in outcrops south of Kunming in the Yunnan Province, South China by Professor Hou Xianguang, co-author of the study.Several amazingly preserved fossils have been unearthed from outcrops scattered among rice fields and farmlands in this part of tropical China in the last three decades.It has been named Daihua after the Dai tribe in Yunnan and the Mandarin word for flower 'Hua', a cup-shaped organism with 18 tentacles surrounding its mouth. On the tentacles are fine feather-like branches with rows of large ciliary hairs preserved."When I first saw the fossil, I immediately noticed some features I had seen in comb jellies," said Dr Jakob Vinther, a molecular palaeobiologist from the University of Bristol. "You could see these repeated dark stains along each tentacle that resembles how comb jelly combs fossilise. The fossil also preserves rows of cilia, which can be seen because they are huge. Across the Tree of Life, such large ciliary structures are only found in comb jellies."In today's oceans, comb jellies are swimming carnivores. Some of them have become invasive pests. They swim using bands of iridescent, rainbow coloured comb rows along their body composed of densely packed cellular protrusions, known as cilia. Their hair-like structures are the largest seen anywhere in the tree of life.The researchers noticed that Daihua resembled another fossil, a famous weird wonder from the Burgess Shale (508 million years old) called Dinomischus. This stalked creature also had 18 tentacles and an organic skeleton and was previously assigned to a group called entoprocts."We also realised that a fossil, Xianguangia, that we always thought was a sea anemone is actually part of the comb jelly branch," said co-author Prof Cong Peiyun.This emerging pattern led researchers to see a perfect transition from their fossils all the way up to comb jellies."It was probably one of the most exhilarating moments of my life," said Dr Vinther. "We pulled out a zoology textbook and tried to wrap our head around the various differences and similarities, and then, bam! -- here is another fossil that fills this gap."The study shows how comb jellies evolved from ancestors with an organic skeleton, which some still possessed and swam with during the Cambrian. Their combs evolved from tentacles in polyp-like ancestors that were attached to the seafloor. Their mouths then expanded into balloon-like spheres while their original body reduced in size so that the tentacles that used to surround the mouth now emerges from the back-end of the animal."With such body transformations, I think we have some of the answers to understand why comb jellies are so hard to figure out. It explains why they have lost so many genes and possess a morphology that we see in other animals," added co-author Dr Luke Parry.Until around 150 years ago, zoologists had considered comb jellies and cnidarians to be related. This theory was challenged more recently by new genetic information suggesting comb jellies could be a distant relative to all living animals below the very simple looking sponges.The authors of this new study believe their findings make a strong case for repositioning the comb jelly back alongside corals, sea anemones and jellyfish. A decade ago, when the greed and carelessness of the financial industry came close to destroying the economy, the overwhelming response by politicians and the public was: Meh. Almost instantly, all was forgiven and forgotten. Now the tech industry which, among other impressive innovations, provides the worlds knowledge on demand, lets people freely broadcast their diverse opinions and has made shopping as easy as pushing a button has made some mistakes of its own. It has abused privacy, squeezed the competition and casually spread hate. And thats just the beginning of the list. Google, Facebook, Amazon and Apple might not get away as cleanly as Goldman Sachs and Citigroup. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., who is seeking the Democratic presidential nomination, released proposals this month that would force tech breakups and impose severe restrictions on what remained. Another Democratic presidential candidate, Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, covered more briefly some of the same ground, saying, We have a major monopoly problem. At a moment when nearly everything in America seems wildly contentious, antitrust action against tech is getting a sober look. Antitrust is the nuclear bomb of regulatory policy, but the reaction to Warrens and Klobuchars ideas was surprisingly receptive. Weve got to break these guys apart, Warren said in an interview on Face the Nation. The show could name only one critic of her proposal: Howard Schultz, the Starbucks mogul, who is flirting with an independent run for president to the deep disregard of voters. A billionaire, right? Warren noted. For decades, a politician who mentioned antitrust was essentially arguing for more government oversight, which has been dangerous territory at least since the Ronald Reagan administration. Antitrust was relegated to the shelf with socialism and wealth inequality and higher taxes for higher incomes. It didnt help that what could be called maximum antitrust when the Justice Department decides a company is abusing its monopoly power and should be broken up has a mixed history. The government dropped such a case against IBM in 1982 after more than a decade. It settled its case against Microsoft in 2001. Only AT&T, which agreed in 1982 to dissolve itself into a long-distance company and the seven Baby Bells, could be considered an unqualified success from the governments point of view. The political landscape is shifting, however, at a speed that dumbfounds even antitrust experts. President Barack Obama thought of the tech companies in the way they think of themselves: as progressive, smart entrepreneurs who want whats best for America. His administration declined to pursue Google on antitrust charges and hired from the tech industry for top posts. Top staff members later went to work for the tech industry in top posts, too. It was a cozy relationship. Something has definitely changed, said Geoffrey Manne, founder of the International Center for Law and Economics, a think tank in Portland, Ore. Most voters are very fond of Amazon, Apple, Google and even Facebook. But I think theres also a growing sense of skepticism about all these companies. The shine has come off. Manne, who has been a critic of the antitrust arguments against Google and has received funding from the search giant as well as from some of its competitors, including Comcast and AT&T, eviscerated Warrens proposal with his colleague Alec Stapp in a recent blog post. They wrote that the senators plan to turn the top companies into heavily regulated platform utilities would make them as resistant to improvement as sewer systems or Amtrak. And yet, Manne conceded in an interview, increased regulation is an idea whose time may have come. There is a long history in America just not a recent one of using the power of the state to counteract the economic power of private enterprise, he said. We may be at that moment again. Daniel Crane, an antitrust expert at the University of Michigan, said Warrens proposal might be a hard sell to voters. The median consumer probably feels that she gets lots of free goodies from Big Tech and will worry about what it would mean to go after them, he said. But Crane noted that being broken up was the least of the companies worries. A likelier consequence is that the next acquisition they want to make will be rejected, he said. Even just the rhetoric can complicate their lives and put pressure going forward. That is already happening. One of the anticompetitive complaints about Amazon is that it prohibited its merchants from selling more cheaply elsewhere. That prevented a new service from underselling Amazon and gaining a competitive edge. Amazon ended this practice in Europe six years ago, but it continued in the United States. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., asked for regulators to investigate in December. Amazon confirmed this month that it had dropped the requirement. In this new environment, winning can soon look a lot like losing. Amazon opposed a proposal in Seattle last spring for a corporate tax to help the homeless and succeeded in getting it cut in half. Then the retailer decided it just couldnt live with the measure at all. A repeal effort began. The City Council killed the tax just as it was going into effect. At the time, that looked like another triumph for Amazon. But in the months since, even some of those who thought the tax was a bad idea have found their views evolving. My feelings about Amazon have changed, and not in a good way, said Julie Shapiro, a Seattle University professor of family law. I think they want the ability to be a bully and, once they have it, theyre quite willing to use it. That is the crux of the issue: Can a company be dominant without coming off as a bully? It is no accident that the company that was the subject of the biggest antitrust action in the last quarter-century Microsoft had a terrible reputation in the tech community. Voters love innovation, convenience and entrepreneurs. They dont love bullies. Amazon failed to avoid bullying behavior in its now-abandoned bid to build a headquarters in New York, and Facebook likewise failed this month when it took down Warrens posts about Facebook having too much power. The company, which said the posts had violated the use of its logo, quickly restored them, but the public relations damage had been done. Curious why I think FB has too much power? Warren tweeted. Lets start with their ability to shut down a debate over whether FB has too much power. David Streitfeld is a New York Times writer. Sometimes the tech gods send a sign. This week the sign was very clear its time to review the Samsung Galaxy S10. After the announcement of the Samsung Galaxy S10 phones, I was offered phones to review by Verizon, AT&T and Samsung. I never know when they are coming the emails just ask whether Id be interested in a handset to review. For a phone of this caliber, I just say yes to everyone. As you might guess, I got three S10 phones on the same day. AT&T and Samsung provided an S10 Plus, and Verizon sent the smaller S10. Like Apple did in the fall, Samsung has released three models of the Galaxy S10. The Galaxy S10 is the flagship 6.1-inch phone, the S10 Plus is the 6.4-inch phone, and the S10e is the more affordable 5.8-inch model. I didnt have an S10e to try, so this review will discuss only the S10 and S10 Plus. The S10 phones look like last years S9 phones, but once you light up the screen, youll see the difference. The screen really does go edge to edge. The S10 Plus display takes up more than 93 percent of the front face of the phone. Unlike the iPhone, which uses a notch to house its cameras and sensors, the S10 phones use a hole in the actual LED panel. It looks like someone used a hole punch. I like the design choice. The sleep/wake button is on the right, while volume and a button to invoke Samsungs artificial assistant, Bixby, are on the left side. If you dont want to use it, the button can be programmed to launch other apps. The charge/sync port on the bottom is USB-C, and there is still a headphone jack. What youll get: The S10 and S10 Plus have different size Quad HD-Plus Dynamic AMOLED Infinity-O displays, but they both have a resolution of 3,040 by 1,440 pixels and the displays are HDR10-Plus certified. They both have 8 gigabytes of RAM and are available with 128 GB or 512 GB of internal storage. The S10 Plus also has a model called the Performance Edition with 12 GB of RAM and one terabyte of storage. They also have a microSD card slot for added storage. The phones run Android 9, and they both have a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor. Wireless options include Bluetooth 5.0 and a newer, faster WiFi called 802.11ax. The S10 measures 5.9 by 2.77 by 0.31 inches and weighs 5.54 ounces. The Plus measures 6.20 by 2.92 by 0.31 inches and weighs 6.17 ounces. They are covered with Corning Gorilla Glass 6. The phones are IP68 dust- and water-resistant. They can be submerged in 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. The battery in the Galaxy S10 has 3,400 milliamp hours of power, while the Plus has a whopping 4,100 mAh. They can both charge through their USB-C port or wirelessly (at 15 watts), and they can both wirelessly charge other Qi-compatible devices. Other features: Everyone has seen smartphones with dual cameras on the back, but the S10 and the Plus have three main cameras. The lenses are 26mm (wide), 52mm (telephoto) and 12mm (ultrawide). The phones have a 26mm (wide) selfie camera, but the Plus adds a depth sensor that allows for live focus mode shots. I first saw live focus when it was introduced as portrait mode on the iPhone X. Those shots can be adjusted after the photo is taken to change the amount of blur in the background. Samsung takes that feature and makes it better. S10 Users can see and adjust the amount of blur in portrait mode pictures on the screen before the shot is taken. There are also three other live focus effects called zoom, spin and color point. You can see and adjust the amount of blur in all these effects before or after you shoot. The phones can capture 4K video as well, and both have optical image stabilization. The S10 phones are the first Ive seen with a fingerprint reader under the screen. You set up your fingerprint to unlock the phone, but instead of a physical button or sensor, the screen shows you where to press your finger to register the prints. It works well, but you do have to mash down on the screen with your finger to get it to read. Im spoiled by my experience with Apples home button/fingerprint sensor, which needs only a very light touch to work. I was asked to press my finger down harder more than a few times when I tried to unlock the S10. The S10 phones can also be unlocked by facial recognition. Pricing: The three S10 phones are available from Samsung or from the major carriers. The S10 starts at $899 for the 128 GB model and jumps to $1,149 for 512 GB. The S10 Plus costs $999 for 128 GB and $1,249 for 512 GB. The 1 TB version will set you back $1,599. The S10e starts at $749 for 128 GB and $849 for 256 GB. Pros: Really fast, great display, great cameras. Lots of storage and RAM. Cons: Not much. A little expensive. Bottom line: If youre looking for the best Android phone, you cant go wrong with the S10. Jim Rossman is a Dallas Morning News writer. San Francisco Mayor London Breed has created a panel of officials, criminal justice experts and advocates to examine the countys juvenile justice system, including how to best use its nearly vacant juvenile hall, and make recommendations for potential reforms. The announcement follows a Chronicle report published online Thursday that documented a sharp drop in serious youth crimes that has contributed to reduced populations in juvenile halls across the state. The report found that spending on juvenile halls and camps is as high in some counties as $500,000 a year per youth. The annual cost of locking up a child in San Francisco has nearly doubled since 2011, reaching $266,000 last year. Similar trends have occurred across California, where almost every juvenile hall is operating at or below 50 percent capacity. The Chronicle plans to publish its full series of stories, titled Vanishing Violence, in print editions on Sunday and Monday. In response to The Chronicle report, San Francisco supervisors Hillary Ronen, Shamann Walton and Matt Haney announced they are drafting legislation to shut down the countys 150-bed facility by 2021. The measure would establish a task force to figure out how to close the facility and create secure and supportive settings for young people accused of crimes, including the most serious or violent offenses. Mayor Breeds proposal suggests conducting a thorough review with juvenile justice leaders before committing to any major changes. While we have had success in greatly reducing the number of incarcerated youth in San Francisco, we need to take the next step and reimagine what our system will be in the future, Breed said in a statement. While there has been talk of shutting down our juvenile hall, it is important that before we make any decisions we look at the juvenile justice system as a whole. The panel will include several criminal justice representatives, including Juvenile Probation Chief Allen Nance, as well as youth advocates, community-based service providers and young people with firsthand experience in the juvenile justice system. The panel will begin meeting in April. Among the panels goals will be to reduce the number of young people detained in San Franciscos juvenile hall, and to make recommendations on how to best use the citys existing facilities, including the Log Cabin Ranch, which was recently shuttered, and the juvenile hall, which is about 70 percent empty on an average day. Supervisor Ronen said she plans to move forward with her proposal to close San Franciscos juvenile hall, citing evidence that many youth are detained unnecessarily, and stark racial disparities in who is locked up. Youth advocates have found that last December, roughly one-third of the wards in San Franciscos juvenile hall were held on misdemeanor offenses, and half of the children were there while awaiting a court-ordered placement. Black youth also made up more than half of the people booked into juvenile hall last year, even though theyre just 5 percent of San Franciscos under-18 population, Ronen said. My worry is if theres not a commitment to shutting down juvenile hall, then its going to be a lot of talk without a lot of action, Ronen said. Weve talked about the problem for a long time, we know the system is broken, and now is the time to start making commitments and taking actions toward change, starting with shutting down juvenile hall and designing and creating a truly rehabilitative model. Joaquin Palomino is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jpalomino@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JoaquinPalomino LANSING, Mich. Faith-based adoption agencies that are paid by the state of Michigan will no longer be able to turn away LGBT couples or individuals because of religious objections under a legal settlement. The agreement announced Friday was reached between Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessels office and lawyers for the American Civil Liberties Union, which sued the state in 2017 on behalf of two lesbian couples and a woman who was in foster care in her teens. Discrimination in the provision of foster care case management and adoption services is illegal, no matter the rationale, Nessel, who pursued settlement talks after taking office in January, said in a statement. Limiting the opportunity for a child to be adopted or fostered by a loving home not only goes against the states goal of finding a home for every child, it is a direct violation of the contract every child-placing agency enters into with the state. Michigan, like most states, contracts with private agencies to place children from troubled homes with new families. The lawsuit alleged that the same-sex couples were turned away by Catholic Charities and Bethany Christian Services because they are gay. A 2015 Republican-enacted law says child-placement agencies are not required to provide any services that conflict with their sincerely held religious beliefs. But the definition of services does not include those provided under a contract with the state Department of Health and Human Services, according to the suit and resulting settlement. The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, which intervened in the case on behalf of St. Vincent Catholic Charities and others, accused Nessel and the ACLU of trying to stop the state from working with faith-based adoption agencies. The result of that will be tragic, attorney Lori Windham said. Thousands of children will be kept from finding the loving homes they deserve. This settlement violates the state law protecting religious adoption agencies. But two plaintiffs, Kristy and Dana Dumont of Dimondale near Lansing, issued a statement saying they were so happy for same-sex couples who are interested in fostering or adopting children. We are hopeful that this will mean more families for children, especially those who have been waiting years for a family to adopt them, they said. And we cant wait to welcome one of those children into our family. The ACLU called the settlement a victory for nearly 12,000 children in foster care. Nessel, who is gay, successfully fought as a private attorney to overturn Michigans ban on same-sex marriage. The liberal advocacy group Progress Michigan called the deal a great step toward a more welcoming and inclusive Michigan. But state Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey said he is deeply saddened and outraged, and accused Nessel of furthering her personal political agenda. David Eggert is an Associated Press writer. ATLANTA Amid protests and a heavy police presence, the Georgia Senate passed a bill banning almost all abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected. The bill, backed by Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, passed Friday on a 34-18 party-line vote and would be one of the nations strictest antiabortion measures if it becomes law and is not blocked in court battles. It will now go back to the House to approve Senate changes, where its expected to pass. Women in Georgia can currently seek an abortion during the first 20 weeks of a pregnancy. A heartbeat can be detected in an embryo as early as six weeks into pregnancy, before many women know theyre pregnant. Georgia lawmakers and GOP-led legislatures in several other states have pushed antiabortion measures in hopes of getting a case before the U.S. Supreme Court to challenge its 1973 Roe vs. Wade ruling that legalized abortion. The push comes amid rising optimism among conservatives that the restrictions might prevail in a high court that includes President Trump appointees Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh. Andrea Young, the executive director of the ACLU of Georgia, said in an interview that the group would challenge the heartbeat abortion ban in court if its signed into law. Young called the legislation clearly unconstitutional and said that it flies in the face of 50 years of legal precedent. Several Republican senators, most of them men, spoke in favor of the bill, while several Democratic senators, most of them women, argued against it. God knew us and had a plan for us when we were still in our mothers womb, said Republican Sen. Greg Kirk. The word abortion is not going to be found in the Bible. Democratic Sen. Valencia Seay objected, saying lawmakers were letting their personal religious beliefs dictate everyone elses ability to have a choice. A large group of women at the Georgia Capitol protested the bill dressed as characters from The Handmaids Tale, which depicts a dystopian future where women are controlled by the government and forced to breed. GOP lawmakers in Tennessee, Florida, South Carolina and Ohio are pursuing similar legislation, while Republican governors in Mississippi and Kentucky have recently signed heartbeat abortion bans. Ben Nadler is an Associated Press writer. WASHINGTON Special Counsel Robert Mueller turned in his long-anticipated report on the Russia investigation Friday, but did not recommend any more indictments in the political and legal saga that has threatened President Trumps tenure in the White House and is likely to cloud his legacy. Mueller delivered a confidential report to Attorney General William Barr, the Justice Department announced. A Barr spokeswoman described it as comprehensive but provided no other details. The special counsels decision to wrap up the investigation without further criminal charges probably brings a measure of relief to the president and his inner circle after nearly two years under scrutiny by the former FBI director. Mueller has charged 34 people, the most of any special prosecutor since Watergate. They include more than two dozen Russians and several of Trumps top former aides, including his national security adviser and his campaign chairman. No Americans were charged with conspiring with Moscow to influence the 2016 presidential campaign, the original focus of the criminal and counterintelligence investigation. However, Muellers work spawned a web of other inquiries, most notably from House Democrats and federal prosecutors in New York, that will continue to shadow Trump and may lead to additional charges. In a letter to the leaders of the House and Senate judiciary committees, Barr wrote that Mueller has concluded his investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election and related matters. Barr said he may be able to advise the committees of Muellers principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. He also wrote that other information may be made available to Congress, and he remains committed to as much transparency as possible. There were no instances in which Justice Department leaders overruled a decision by the special counsel, Barr wrote. The White House spokeswoman, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, said in a statement that the next steps are up to Barr and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. Although Muellers report ends his investigation, its filing marks the starting point for waves of legal battles, congressional wrangling and political recriminations in the months ahead and through the 2020 presidential campaign. Democrats and some Republicans quickly demanded that the report be made public as soon as possible, and that all of the material be sent to Congress without redactions. Many of the 2020 presidential contenders tweeted their demand for a full public review minutes after news broke of Barrs notification to Congress. The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a joint statement. Democrats have expressed concern that the Justice Department would release only portions of the report that defend the president and his aides, or that the White House might try to bury damaging material. Congress and the American people deserve to judge the facts for themselves, said Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., the top Democrat on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Any attempt by the Trump administration to cover up the results of this investigation into Russias attack on our democracy would be unacceptable. House Democrats have vowed to issue subpoenas, if necessary, to obtain the complete report as they launch multiple investigations aimed at Trumps businesses, private finances and presidency. Republican leaders said they were eager to see the report as well. The Attorney General has said he intends to provide as much information as possible, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said in a statement. I sincerely hope he will do so as soon as he can, and with as much openness and transparency as possible. I expect DOJ to release the special counsels report to this committee & public w/o delay & to maximum extent permitted by law, Rep. Doug Collins, R-Ga., the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, wrote on Twitter. A security officer working for the special counsels office delivered Muellers report to the Justice Department early Friday afternoon. Stephen Boyd, the assistant attorney general for legislative affairs, then went to Capitol Hill to deliver the letter notifying Congress that Muellers report had been received. Barrs chief of staff, Brian Rabbitt, called Emmet Flood, a member of the White House counsels office, to alert him as well. Flood, who was hired to help the president handle the investigations, traveled with Trump on Friday to Palm Beach, Fla. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who appointed and supervised Mueller, telephoned him to thank him for his service and express his appreciation, according to a senior Justice Department official. Rosenstein has said he plans to leave the department shortly. Mueller was later seen eating dinner at an American-style restaurant that he frequents in northwest Washington. Many of Muellers prosecutors are returning to other positions at the Justice Department, while his top deputy is returning to academia. Mueller has not yet stepped down as special counsel. Hes expected to remain in place as the office wraps up its operations. Even before he filed his report, Mueller had produced a vast public record of crimes, lies and misdeeds, one that is especially alarming because it involves a foreign adversary interfering in a U.S. election. Mueller gave no interviews and issued no public statements apart from a one-sentence statement when he was appointed special counsel in May 2017. That added an unusual degree of mystery to his work and prompted endless speculation about the sprawling investigation. The special counsels office investigated Moscows efforts to sway the 2016 presidential campaign, whether Trumps aides or allies conspired with the Kremlin-backed operation, and whether the president improperly interfered with the investigation. Along the way, Muellers team uncovered and prosecuted numerous other crimes, including an epidemic of lying to lawmakers and federal agents, as well as financial crimes related to an illegal lobbying scheme on behalf of Ukraines pro-Russian government. Other federal prosecutors already have used Muellers work to kick off their own investigations. The U.S. attorneys office in Manhattan has directly implicated Trump in an illegal hush-money scheme allegedly designed to silence his alleged mistresses in the final weeks of the 2016 campaign. Depending on what the report says, Trump is expected to claim full vindication or continue his tirades against a witch hunt that he says was conducted for partisan purposes. He submitted written answers to questions from Muellers team, but despite months of negotiations did not submit to a formal interview. On Wednesday, the president appeared to agree with polls showing widespread public support for releasing the entire report. Let it come out. Let people see it, he told reporters at the White House. Lets see whether or not its legit. Its unclear whether Muellers report includes any major revelations beyond the extensive indictments and court filings hes assembled in the last two years. The special counsels office detailed how Vladimir Putins Russia attempted to influence the last presidential election with a vast disinformation campaign on social media as well as illegal hacks and leaks of Democratic Party emails. Court filings showed that Trumps top lieutenants met or communicated dozens of times with Russian diplomats, suspected intelligence agents or officials during the campaign and the transition that followed and then lied repeatedly about those contacts. In addition, while Trump was running for president, his confidants secretly tried to assemble financial and political support in Moscow to build a luxury Trump Tower condominium and hotel complex potentially worth hundreds of millions of dollars to his business. Mueller and his team ultimately charged 34 individuals, including 25 Russians. Seven people pleaded guilty, including several in Trumps inner orbit. They include Michael Flynn, his former national security adviser; Paul Manafort, his former campaign chairman; Richard Gates, his deputy campaign chairman; and Michael Cohen, his former personal lawyer and a senior executive in the Trump Organization. No Americans were charged with conspiring with the Kremlin-backed operation, however, and Trump has consistently denied any collusion between his campaign and Moscow. On Wednesday, Trump complained that Mueller, unlike him, had never won an election. I got 63 million votes. And now somebody just writes a report? I think its ridiculous, the president said. The Democratic nominee, Hillary Clinton, won more than 65 million votes but lost the Electoral College. Mueller was appointed special counsel by Rosenstein after Trump fired James Comey as FBI director in May 2017. Rosenstein was overseeing the Russia investigation because Jeff Sessions, who was then attorney general, had recused himself because of his role in the campaign. Sessions was forced out in November, and Barr was confirmed as his replacement in February. Chris Megerian and Del Quentin Wilber are Los Angeles Times writers. SAN JOSE (BCN) Mayor Sam Liccardo and San Jose council members threw their support behind homeless students at San Jose State University Thursday, offering to match the university in providing emergency grants. According to the university's Student Homeless Alliance and an audit by the California State University system, 13.2 percent of San Jose State students have experienced homelessness in the last year, amounting to about 4,300 students. The organization released a list of demands in December, asking for a student homelessness resource guide, increased "Safe Parking" for students living in vehicles and temporary dorm beds financed by a one-time, $2,000 grant. The students met with San Jose State President Mary Papazian on March 5, but were unable to secure most of their demands. Mayra Bernabe, Student Housing Alliance president and San Jose State senior, said the administration did, however, commit to housing homeless students and asked that they pass through the "SJSU Cares" system to ensure accurate data. The university also prioritized getting homeless students under a roof, instead of allocating more room for alternate housing, like vehicles, Bernabe said. Liccardo announced in his budget proposal last week that the city could ease the university's financial burden by splitting the cost of emergency grants. In a letter to Papazian on Thursday, council members Chappie Jones, Raul Peralez, Magdalena Carrasco and Maya Esparza emphasized the value of this partnership. "Together, we believe the City and SJSU's administration can work together, support our students, and find tangible avenues to ensure housing for students who are striving to reach their full academic potential at SJSU," the letter said. Bernabe said she's grateful for the city's actions, and believes a matching program could put more pressure on the university to actively provide emergency resources. "We're very excited ... just to know that the city is acknowledging our effort and taking the time to address us ... because it is an issue that is often invisible and unnoticed." 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. BCN -- A male driver was killed Saturday morning when his vehicle plunged off a cliff in Marin County, a fire spokesman said. At about 10:12 a.m., a hiker reported that a four-door sedan had driven off a cliff on Ridgecrest Boulevard in Mt. Tamalpais State Park, Marin County fire battalion chief Bret McTigue said. The Golden Gate Bridge district's board of directors voted Friday morning to raise tolls on the span to nearly $10 over the next five years to help close a $74 million budget shortfall. The Board approved Option Five, expected to raise approximately $100 million over five years. Only one member of board voted against the toll hike, District spokeswoman Priya Clemens said. The FasTrak toll will increase 35 cents a year to $8.50 over five years. The Pay-As-You-Go toll will increase 20 cents a year to $9 and invoice billing toll will increase 35 cents a year to $9.75 over five years. The toll increases start July 1. The Pay-As-You-Go toll is for drivers who register their vehicle's license plate with the district. Under invoice billing, a camera photographs a vehicle license plate and a bill is sent to the registered owner. An Oakland man who was only 16 at the time was sentenced Friday to 25 years to life in state prison for the shooting death of an off-duty paramedic in the Oakland hills six years ago. Christian Burton, now 22, was convicted Oct. 31 of first-degree murder and the special circumstance of committing a murder during a carjacking for the fatal shooting of Santa Clara County paramedic Quinn Boyer, 34, shortly before noon on April 2, 2013. However, jurors didn't find that Burton was the person who shot Boyer, who lived in Dublin and had been married for less than a year. Boyer crashed his car down a ravine in the 5200 block of Keller Avenue after he was shot and died two days later of a single gunshot wound to his head. Boyer grew up in Oakland and had been in the city that day to take his father to a medical appointment. Alameda County prosecutor Jimmie Wilson said after the verdict that he believes Burton was the shooter but jurors had reasonable doubt about that because the only eyewitness in the case, a woman who's now 80 years old, identified another teen, Nazhee Flowers, as the person she thought shot Boyer. Alameda County Superior Court Judge Kevin Murphy said the "ambiguity" about whether Burton, who was with five other teens at the time, was the shooter is one of the reasons he decided to sentence Burton to 25 years to life instead of life in prison without parole. A well-loved resident of the San Francisco Zoo, a blind sea lion named Silent Knight, died overnight while sleeping, zoo officials said Friday. Silent Knight had been receiving cancer treatments but an exact cause of death is unknown. The popular pinniped came to the zoo in 2011 from The Marine Mammal Center, after time spent rehabilitating from a severe gunshot wound to the head that left the animal blinded. "Silent Knight had such a calm and pleasant demeanor, and was so beloved by staff and guests alike," the zoo's CEO and Executive Director Tanya Peterson said in a news release. The adult male sea lion was found on a beach near Sausalito in 2010 with the gunshot wound that had completely destroyed its right eye and left metal fragments in its brain, eyes and mouth and also resulted in a jaw infection, according to zoo officials. Silent Knight was unable to return to the wild due to the severity of the injuries and was brought to live in the zoo with a younger companion, Henry, another blind sea lion. Although Silent Knight's true age is unknown, biologists believe the sea lion was likely born sometime between 2000 and 2006, said zoo spokeswoman Nancy Chan. "During his time here, he touched millions of lives, inspiring us all," Peterson said. One person died Friday morning in a house fire in Bay Point, authorities said. Contra Costa County firefighters responded at 1 a.m. to the 100 block of Loftus Road to a report of a structure fire and found heavy smoke coming from the residence. Fire crews learned a woman was able to get out of the home through a window, but a man was still trapped inside, according to Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Capt. Steve Aubert. Firefighters were able to get the man out of the home and to an ambulance, but the man later died at the hospital. No other information about the blaze was immediately available. Police in South San Francisco are warning residents to be on the lookout for a phone scam in which the call shows up as coming from the police department's phone number. The call uses the spoofed South San Francisco Police Department phone number (650) 877-8900 when it shows up on the victim's caller ID. Spoofing is when a caller deliberately falsifies the information transmitted to a caller ID to disguise the caller's identity. Police said the scam involves someone claiming the victim is under investigation, has an outstanding warrant or is subject to arrest for various reasons including having bad credit or an outstanding parking ticket. The scammer will try to threaten the victim with arrest unless the victim pays fees via MoneyGram or prepaid gift cards. The police department wants to remind residents it does not call private citizens requesting money. Anyone who receives one of these calls is encouraged to end the call immediately. Victims of the scam who suffer a monetary loss are asked to report the incident to police. 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 federal judge in San Francisco heard arguments on Friday challenging a policy by President Donald Trump's administration forcing asylum seekers from Central America to wait in Mexico while their case is being reviewed. The lawsuit was brought on by the American Civil Liberties Union, the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Center for Gender and Refugee Studies and was filed in the federal court in February. The suit is seeking a preliminary injunction to block the policy as the case is being litigated, citing a violation of U.S. and international law that entitles asylum seekers to humanitarian protections. The plaintiffs include 11 asylum seekers from Central America who are alleged to be living in fear as they wait in Mexico for the duration of their asylum proceedings. "By placing them in such danger, and under conditions that make it difficult if not impossible for them to prepare their cases, defendants are depriving them of a meaningful opportunity to seek asylum," according to the suit. The suit names Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen and Director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Lee Cissna, among others, as defendants. The policy, called Migrant Protection Protocols, was first implemented at the San Ysidro Port of Entry just south of Chula Vista on Jan. 28 and since then, the U.S. government has announced that it would like to expand the policy to other locations along the border. "They (defendants) have made it clear that the goal is to use this at a larger level, which is why we feel a preliminary injunction is necessary. We'd like to stop it before it gets even greater," ACLU attorney Judy Rabinovitz said in court. Rabinovitz also doubted the policy would deter future asylum seekers from coming to the U.S. "People make migration decisions based on what they're facing in their home countries and that's why they're coming," she said, adding that the government was "imposing misery on people" by keeping them in Mexico where they could be subjected to torture and abuse because of their migrant status in that country. "The government knows the conditions in Mexico are bad," she said. Furthermore, she said, asylum seekers often have trouble finding adequate attorneys to represent them while they wait in Mexico. Deputy Assistant Attorney General Scott Stewart argued that the policy was put in place to deter baseless asylum claims. Without the policy, he said, asylum seekers with weak asylum claims could potentially be released into the U.S. and then abscond. Stewart also argued that because the migrants are from Central America, releasing them in Mexico would not directly put them in danger. "Of the plaintiffs in this case, only five of them claimed fear in Mexico," he said. After hearing the arguments, U.S. District Judge Richard Seeborg said he'd take the matter into consideration and is expected to make a decision in the coming days on whether he will grant a preliminary injunction, ahead of a full hearing on whether the policy is unlawful. Outside of court, Blaine Bookey, co-legal director for the Center for Gender and Refugee Studies said of the 11 plaintiffs, "They've all experienced extreme violence and persecutions in their home countries on various grounds, including political activism; there are individuals who have been attacked by gang members in Central America; there's a lesbian woman who was threatened with death and forced to leave her country. There are also individuals who have all experienced kidnappings, threats, and physical assaults in Mexico." As the migrants wait in Tijuana for their cases to move forward, which could take months or years, she said, "This is an urgent matter and our clients' lives are at risk, so we hope that it (a temporary injunction) will happen very soon." 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) The judge kept the trial of Ghost Ship warehouse master tenant Derick Almena and creative director Max Harris on track Friday by denying a motion to dismiss the case as well as a motion to postpone the case, which involves the 2016 fire that killed 36 people. Lawyers for Almena, 48, and Harris, 29, who are charged with 36 counts of involuntary manslaughter for the fire during a music party at the warehouse at 1309 31st Ave. on Dec. 2, 2016, argued that the charges should be dismissed because potentially exonerating evidence was destroyed, lost or altered under the watch of prosecutors. But at the end of a lengthy hearing on the issue, Alameda County Superior Court Judge Trina Thompson said, "What I heard does not give rise to having the court dismiss this case." However, Thompson left open the possibility that defense lawyers could ask that jurors be given an instruction that potentially exonerating evidence was lost. Harris' attorney Max Briggs filed a motion earlier this week asking to delay the trial for six months because of newly-discovered evidence and because he has other trials coming up in the near future. But Thompson denied that motion as well, saying that Briggs should have plenty of time to develop that new evidence because Briggs most likely won't begin presenting evidence on behalf of Harris for at least several months. Thompson's ruling means that the trial for Almena and Harris is still scheduled to begin on April 2, the date that was set last September, with hearings to determine what testimony will be allowed in the case followed by jury selection, which is expected to be lengthy. Based on estimates by the attorneys in the case, Thompson said it appears that there will be 12 to 18 weeks of testimony. She said that time period could be increased if the attorneys extensively cross-examine witnesses and if the court accommodates summer vacation requests by the jurors who are selected for the case. In arguing that the charges be dismissed, Almena's lawyer Tony Serra said the way that investigating agencies, including the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oakland Fire Department, handled the evidence in the case "was a disgrace." Serra said, "We (the defense) are deprived of potential and apparent exonerating evidence," as the cause of the fire was never determined. Briggs said the way the evidence was handled "must be the greatest example of investigative incompetence in California history." But Alameda County prosecutor Autrey James told Thompson, "Your honor, there's been no bad faith" in terms of not preserving as much evidence as possible. James said the fire destroyed much of the evidence in the case, which made determining the cause impossible, and the prosecution has given the defense more than 12,000 pages of documents and hundreds of hours of video and audio recordings. 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. WATSONVILLE (BCN) A motorcyclist suffered major injuries after crashing into a parked car in Watsonville on Saturday, police said. Police sent a traffic advisory at 1:18 p.m. asking motorists to avoid Pennsylvania Drive between Main Street and Hammer Drive as officers investigate the accident. "The area will be shut down for hours," police said. The motorcyclist, a man in his 30s, was taken to an out-of-county trauma center. 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) BART's deputy police chief appealed to the public Saturday for help finding the suspect in the Friday stabbing of a man on a BART train in Oakland that sent the victim to the hospital. The man suspected in the stabbing was fighting with another man on a Richmond-bound train just as it was pulling into the Fruitvale station at 2:48 p.m. Friday, said BART Deputy Police Chief Ed Alvarez. The suspect fled the station after the stabbing. "There were several people on the train who saw what happened. Some came forward, and some did not," Alvarez said in a news conference at BART headquarters in Oakland. "We are asking anyone who recognizes the individual to come forward." Earlier Saturday, the agency published a photo of the suspect taken from the agency's surveillance video, asking the public for help in identifying him. The deputy police chief said the victim was stabbed twice, once to the left side of the face and the other to the right side of the neck. The victim was taken to the hospital, underwent surgery and was still hospitalized Saturday morning, according to Alvarez. The victim's injuries are not thought to be life-threatening. "This was not a random attack," Alvarez said. He said a disagreement arose between two individuals, "and it escalated to a physical fight with a knife being used." Witnesses described the suspect as African-American, 30 to 35 years old, 5 feet 6 to 5 feet 8 inches tall with a slender build. He was wearing an Army green-covered jacket and blue jeans, and carrying a light green backpack and black duffel bag. Alvarez said both violent and property crimes are down on BART, though "we are peaking a little bit in the San Francisco area because of cellphone thefts." The agency has beefed up enforcement efforts over the past year, using overtime because "we don't have a lot of the manpower we are in need of right now," Alvarez said. He said BART is recruiting officers. 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. BART's deputy police chief appealed to the public Saturday for help finding the suspect in the Friday stabbing of a man on a BART train in Oakland that sent the victim to the hospital. The man suspected in the stabbing was fighting with another man on a Richmond-bound train just as it was pulling into the Fruitvale station at 2:48 p.m. Friday, said BART Deputy Police Chief Ed Alvarez. The suspect fled the station after the stabbing. Earlier Saturday, the agency published a photo of the suspect taken from the agency's surveillance video, asking the public for help in identifying him. The deputy police chief said the victim was stabbed twice, once to the left side of the face and the other to the right side of the neck. The victim was taken to the hospital, underwent surgery and was still hospitalized Saturday morning, according to Alvarez. The victim's injuries are not thought to be life-threatening. Witnesses described the suspect as African-American, 30 to 35 years old, 5 feet 6 to 5 feet 8 inches tall with a slender build. He was wearing an Army green-covered jacket and blue jeans, and carrying a light green backpack and black duffel bag. A male driver was killed Saturday morning when his vehicle plunged off a cliff in Marin County, a fire spokesman said. At about 10:12 a.m., a hiker reported that a four-door sedan had driven off a cliff on Ridgecrest Boulevard in Mt. Tamalpais State Park, Marin County fire battalion chief Bret McTigue said. The car landed 600 feet below the roadway. A Sonoma County sheriff's helicopter staged a rescue operation along with local fire crews. The victim was airlifted to the roadway and pronounced dead. He was the only occupant of the vehicle. A security threat Saturday morning at San Francisco International Airport led to the closure of some boarding areas and grounding of flights, according to an airport spokesman. The shutdown resulted when a loaded magazine was brought by a passenger through a security checkpoint around 6:35 a.m., airport duty manager Chris Morgan said. As a result, the boarding areas at security checkpoints F1 and F3 in Terminal 3 and checkpoint G in the International Terminal were closed for about an hour until law enforcement agents were able to locate and interview the passenger. Flights that were not already on the taxiway also were grounded while the search was conducted, Morgan said. The affected flights mostly involved United Airlines. Transportation Security Administration agents flagged the suspicious item in the passenger's bag at the security checkpoint but mistakenly pulled the wrong bag for inspection, allowing the passenger to proceed into the terminal with the loaded magazine, Morgan said. As of 9 a.m., airport operations had returned to normal, Morgan said. Firefighters on Friday helped rescue a woman and her dog from a vehicle that had crashed off a bridge and into a waterway near Santa Rosa. The Santa Rosa Fire Department responded Friday at 9:14 p.m. to 3250 Guerneville Road on a report of a vehicle that had driven off a bridge and into a waterway. The initial report indicated that a person was trapped inside the vehicle. Firefighters located a car that had driven off a bridge on private property and into a tributary of the Laguna de Santa Rosa. The vehicle had fallen about 10 feet and was in a near vertical position. A woman and a dog were trapped inside the partially submerged passenger compartment of the vehicle, firefighters said. Firefighters used chains and cable to stabilize and secure the rear of the car to the bridge. The woman requested firefighters remove the uninjured dog from the car first, so the dog was passed along to a friend. Firefighters then helped the woman exit the vehicle and make it to safety. She was taken to the hospital with injuries that were not considered life threatening. Police in Petaluma are investigating an attempted armed robbery that occurred Friday. Officers with the Petaluma Police Department responded Friday at 8:39 p.m. to the 1800 block of Linnet Lane to a report of an assault. Police said the victims, a man and a woman, had pulled up to their home in their vehicle when the man heard a knock on the passenger's door. The suspect then walked around and knocked on the driver's door, and when the woman opened the door, the suspect immediately grabbed the woman by the hair and began to pull her out of the vehicle. The woman grabbed her purse, and once she was outside of the vehicle, the suspect attempted to pull the purse away from her. The man got out of the vehicle, confronted the suspect and pushed the suspect away. The suspect then punched the man and may have hit him with a thin ornamental rod, temporarily knocking the victim out. The suspect then fled the area. The man was transported to the hospital and treated for contusions and a laceration to his head. The woman was not injured. Police described the suspect as a man, about 6 feet tall, with a medium build and wearing a black mask and unknown clothing. An iron bar was found at the scene. Police in Petaluma on Friday arrested a man in connection with a DUI hit-and-run crash. Scott Ingerson, 45, of Petaluma, was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run and DUI. Officers with the Petaluma Police Department responded shortly after 7 p.m. to North McDowell Boulevard and Rainier Avenue on a report of a crash involving three vehicles. Responding officers learned a vehicle involved in the crash had struck a Toyota pickup truck stopped at a traffic light. The pickup truck was pushed into the back of a Volkswagen SUV also stopped at the light. The vehicle that caused the crash had fled the scene, police said. Police said three children and an adult woman in the SUV complained of pain to their shoulders following the crash, but none of the victims were ultimately taken to the hospital. Officers searched the area and found Ingerson's unoccupied Hyundai sedan, which sustained heavy front-end damage, parked blocks away on Lassen Drive. Officers located Ingerson nearby and arrested him after he tried to run away. Police said Ingerson showed signs of being impaired, so they conducted a DUI investigation. A preliminary reading showed he had a blood-alcohol content of .29 percent, well above the legal limit. 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. Cheese enthusiasts can treat their taste buds to artisan cheese on Saturday and Sunday in Sonoma and Marin counties at the California Artisan Cheese Festival. At least part of the event gets underway at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds at 1350 Bennett Valley Road in Santa Rosa. The 13th annual festival includes cheese tastings, pairings, a culinary competition and farm and producer tours. Tickets can be purchased at www.artisancheesefestival.com. One person was killed Friday in a vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 101 near Geyserville Avenue in Sonoma County. Officers with the California Highway Patrol responded Friday at 2:55 p.m. to a report of a traffic collision on northbound U.S. Highway 101 at Geyserville Avenue and learned a woman had been killed in the collision. The preliminary investigation into the collision indicates the woman was driving a blue Nissan south on U.S. Highway 101 when she lost control of her vehicle, traveled across the center median and collided with a 2016 Honda Civic and a 2004 Toyota Tundra traveling north on the highway, according to the CHP. The driver and a passenger in the Toyota were transported to the hospital with moderate injuries, and the driver and a passenger in the Honda were evaluated at the scene and released, according to the CHP. The identity of the woman killed in the collision was not immediately available Friday night. Traffic on northbound U.S. Highway 101 was diverted to the Geyserville Avenue exit as the incident was being investigated. The roadway was reopened at 6:15 p.m. A federal judge in San Francisco heard arguments on Friday challenging a policy by President Donald Trump's administration forcing asylum seekers from Central America to wait in Mexico while their case is being reviewed. The lawsuit was brought on by the American Civil Liberties Union, the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Center for Gender and Refugee Studies and was filed in the federal court in February. The suit is seeking a preliminary injunction to block the policy as the case is being litigated, citing a violation of U.S. and international law that entitles asylum seekers to humanitarian protections. The plaintiffs include 11 asylum seekers from Central America who are alleged to be living in fear as they wait in Mexico for the duration of their asylum proceedings. "By placing them in such danger, and under conditions that make it difficult if not impossible for them to prepare their cases, defendants are depriving them of a meaningful opportunity to seek asylum," according to the suit. BART's Fruitvale station in Oakland is open again following a stabbing Friday afternoon that left one person hospitalized, BART officials said. As of 5:22 p.m. the station had reopened and trains were stopping on both platforms. BART officials said the stabbing occurred just before 3 p.m. on a train as it approached the station. Two people had gotten into a fight on the train, and once it was in the station, the altercation spilled out onto the platform. One person was stabbed and he was taken to a hospital with injuries not considered life-threatening. Police said the suspect is at large. A temporary teacher at Martinez Junior High School was arrested Friday morning on suspicion of misdemeanor battery, police said. Officers responded at 11 a.m. to the school at 1600 Court St. on a report that a battery occurred on campus. Police said officers arrested Alex Aono, a temporary faculty member of the school. Mayor Sam Liccardo and San Jose council members threw their support behind homeless students at San Jose State University Thursday, offering to match the university in providing emergency grants. According to the university's Student Homeless Alliance and an audit by the California State University system, 13.2 percent of San Jose State students have experienced homelessness in the last year, amounting to about 4,300 students. The organization released a list of demands in December, asking for a student homelessness resource guide, increased "Safe Parking" for students living in vehicles and temporary dorm beds financed by a one-time, $2,000 grant. The students met with San Jose State President Mary Papazian on March 5, but were unable to secure most of their demands. Mayra Bernabe, Student Housing Alliance president and San Jose State senior, said the administration did, however, commit to housing homeless students and asked that they pass through the "SJSU Cares" system to ensure accurate data. The university also prioritized getting homeless students under a roof, instead of allocating more room for alternate housing, like vehicles, Bernabe said. San Francisco Supervisors Hillary Ronen and Shamann Walton announced Friday they're working on legislation that would mandate the closure of the city's Juvenile Hall by the end of 2021. The legislation, set to be introduced in April, seeks to close the juvenile jail by December 2021, citing a sharp decline in youth crime. "San Francisco is spending over $13 million a year -- more than $270,000 per child -- to lock kids up in a juvenile hall that is consistently 70 to 75 percent empty. This is a stunning misuse of city funds," Ronen said in a statement. "We need to stop investing in an outdated institution that is expensive, ineffective and traumatic for children, and instead use these funds for rehabilitative programs and services that have a proven track record of helping youth build healthy and stable lives," she said. According to the supervisors, youth crime has steadily decreased across the country over the last decade, resulting in a sharp decrease in young people incarcerated in San Francisco. Saturday will be partly cloudy with highs in the upper 50s. West winds will be 5 to 15 mph, increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Saturday night will mostly clear with lows in the upper 40s. West winds will be 10 to 20 mph before switching to north winds of 5 to 10 mph after midnight. Sunday will be partly cloudy with highs in the lower 60s. East winds will be 5 to 10 mph before becoming south winds in the afternoon. 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 INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (BCN) A San Francisco man was arrested Thursday after police identified him as a suspect in a theft at San Francisco International Airport, police said Friday. Dermot O'Sullivan, 48, was arrested on suspicion of stealing a case from the Terminal 3 baggage claim carousel at 1:40 p.m. on Feb. 17. Police said inside the case was a Glock 9mm pistol, two magazines, 20 rounds of ammunition, a holster and two flashlights. Police developed probable cause to get a warrant to search O'Sullivan's home after officers recognized him from a crime bulletin that was circulated in the Police Department. Officers executed the warrant Thursday morning at O'Sullivan's home in the 300 block of Delano Avenue near Balboa Park. Police said as a result of the search warrant officers discovered evidence linking O'Sullivan to the theft. O'Sullivan was arrested near Ocean and San Jose avenues. O'Sullivan was taken to the San Mateo County jail on suspicion of second degree burglary and grand theft. Police said the investigation is still open and they are asking anyone with information about the theft to get in touch with the department's cargo theft task force at (650) 821-7007 or at sfosfpdcargo@flysfo.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. A temporary teacher at Martinez Junior High School was arrested Friday morning on suspicion of misdemeanor battery, police said. Officers responded at 11 a.m. to the school at 1600 Court St. on a report that a battery occurred on campus. Police said officers arrested Alex Aono, a temporary faculty member of the school. 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) BART's deputy police chief appealed to the public Saturday for help finding the suspect in the Friday stabbing of a man on a BART train in Oakland that sent the victim to the hospital. The man suspected in the stabbing was fighting with another man on a Richmond-bound train just as it was pulling into the Fruitvale station at 2:48 p.m. Friday, said BART Deputy Police Chief Ed Alvarez. The suspect fled the station after the stabbing. "There were several people on the train who saw what happened. Some came forward, and some did not," Alvarez said in a news conference at BART headquarters in Oakland. "We are asking anyone who recognizes the individual to come forward." Earlier Saturday, the agency published a photo of the suspect taken from the agency's surveillance video, asking the public for help in identifying him. The deputy police chief said the victim was stabbed twice, once to the left side of the face and the other to the right side of the neck. The victim was taken to the hospital, underwent surgery and was still hospitalized Saturday morning, according to Alvarez. The victim's injuries are not thought to be life-threatening. "This was not a random attack," Alvarez said. He said a disagreement arose between two individuals, "and it escalated to a physical fight with a knife being used." Witnesses described the suspect as African-American, 30 to 35 years old, 5 feet 6 to 5 feet 8 inches tall with a slender build. He was wearing an Army green-covered jacket and blue jeans, and carrying a light green backpack and black duffel bag. Alvarez said both violent and property crimes are down on BART, though "we are peaking a little bit in the San Francisco area because of cellphone thefts." The agency has beefed up enforcement efforts over the past year, using overtime because "we don't have a lot of the manpower we are in need of right now," Alvarez said. He said BART is recruiting officers. 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. 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 Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) told Bill Maher that the House Intelligence Committee will subpoena special counsel Robert Mueller to testify before Congress and present the findings of his report. Hours after Mueller submitted his report to Attorney General William Barr, Swalwell said during an appearance on Maher's show Real Time that "we're going to subpoena" Robert Mueller. "People are on their way to jail, have gone to jail, there's probably a farming out of other investigations, but yes, if you have a TV or a Twitter account you've already seen obstruction of justice, so I think the team has seen that," Swalwell said. "But here's what's important, it's that the public sees the report contemporaneously with the president, he should not be allowed to edit, he should not be allowed to restrict or sanitize, and Mueller has to come before Congress and tell us its veracity as far as what Barr [releases]." FULL COVERAGE: Mueller concludes Russia-Trump probe with no new indictments "You can make that happen?" Maher asks. "Yeah, we're going to subpoena him and Adam Schiff announced that earlier," Swalwell replied. "You'll subpoena Mueller?" "Yep." On Friday afternoon, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff told CNN that his committee is prepared to subpoena Robert Mueller if they are unsatisfied with what Barr releases to Congress. RELATED: Mueller ends Russia investigation, now what? In a letter to congressional leaders, Barr said that he might be able to brief them on the principal findings of Mueller's report as soon as the weekend. "I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend," Barr wrote. 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. If classic charm, sweeping views and a house with a "storied" background are your thing -- and you have a healthy multimillion dollar budget -- then this Seattle home may be just the ticket. Designed by prominent Seattle architect Ellsworth Storey and completed in north Capitol Hill in 1913, this red brick colonial home at 1649 Federal Avenue is a beautiful mixture of old-world charm and modern luxury. Dudleya farinosa: The name sounds like a Harry Potter spell and, indeed, the native California succulent is nothing short of enchanting, with a lotus shape and waxy mint-colored leaves trimmed in red. A handful of Asian countries predominantly China and Korea appear to be enthralled by the spindly plant, so much so that authorities have identified what looks to be an international conspiracy of Dudleya poaching along the craggy coastline of California. Most Californians -- if they know the plant at all -- recognize Dudleya by a different name: bluff lettuce. The plant, native to coastal Northern California and Oregon, grows predominantly along ocean-facing cliffs, below the shrubbery and above the wave line. Though altogether unremarkable as far as flora goes, Dudleya farinosa has captured the hearts of overseas collectors, some of whom are willing to pay upwards of $50 for a single plant, officials said. Authorities have already prosecuted at least four separate criminal cases related to Dudleya poaching in California; the bulk of convicted individuals traveled from abroad. At least two additional Dudleya poaching cases are still in the courts. ALSO READ: California super bloom visible from 35,000 feet California Fish and Wildlife Warden Pat Freeling is no stranger to poachers attempting to pilfer the fruits of Northern California parklands. "Historically, one of my major areas of concentration has been abalone poaching," he said. That's changed in the last few years. In December of 2017, a tipster alerted Freeling that a man was holding up the line at a neighborhood post office trying to ship dozens of packages, some of which appeared to be leaking dirt. When pressed, the man reportedly told the woman the packages contained something "very valuable," while pointing to the ocean. Suspecting him to be poaching abalone, she alerted authorities. The postal inspector, upon x-raying the boxes, didn't find sea creatures, but dozens of Dudleya. The following month, Freeling met a man stuffing Dudleya into his backpack on a Mendocino cliffside. He told Freeling he'd visited the same location 10 to 12 times before. The incidents continued, and Freeling realized he'd stumbled into something big, and potentially organized. He now regularly scans the bluffs he patrols for suspicious-looking folks, carrying large backpacks or poking their noses around cliff crevices where Dudleya often grow. As recently as February, Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced two Southern California residents -- Guanrong Rivera, 49, and Jose Luis Rivera, 64 were convicted for poaching succulents off the coast of Garrapata State Park after CDFW discovered about 600 Dudleyas inside the couple's garage. At that time, Guanrong Rivera admitted she had pilfered succulents from the Big Sur area on a recent vacation, which she intended to sell to customers in China, according to CDFW. ALSO: 'Unbearable': California town reopens access to super bloom after closure due to massive crowds Mr. Rivera was sentenced to 40 days in county jail, three years of informal probation and fined $4,018. His wife was sentenced to 179 days in county jail, three years formal probation and fined more than $20,000, including making a contribution to CDFW and paying restitution to the California Department of Parks and Recreation. The couple is forbidden from stepping foot on any national or state park in California. The outburst of demand for Dudleya started in the last decade, experts say, coinciding with the sudden global popularity of succulents as the hipster decor du jour. In the U.S., succulents can be found anywhere from grocery stores to trendy clothing shops and everywhere in between. At Urban Outfitters, you can buy a t-shirt with "Don't Be a Prick" scribbled with succulents. Crate and Barrel sells artificial succulents in a pot for $49.95. And Etsy ground zero for trendy crafted goods offers everything from succulent rings to infant onesies reading, "What's up succa?" Dudleya farinosa is easily purchased from a number of native plant sellers in California. At Yerba Buena Nursery in Half Moon Bay, you can buy a gallon yes, a gallon of Dudleya for $20. But that's not what international collectors appear to be after. According to a Press Democrat investigation, "large, wild-harvested Dudleya are considered luxury items ... Imperfections inflicted by the elements are a plus." Many of the specimens poachers are grabbing, said CDFW biologist Michael Van Hattem are "decades old." Van Hattem has led multiple re-planting efforts, in Humboldt and Del Norte counties. "These poachers are basically bypassing the decades that it takes the plants to reach the maturity level they're at," he said. Large-scale poaching of Dudleya can have multiple impacts, he said. For one, tearing the specimens from their cliffside habitats can lead to erosion, endangering hikers and the poachers themselves. The real threat is posed at California biodiversity. Dudleya occupy a "very narrow niche" of the state, Van Hattem said. "They're not everywhere, and there's just not many of them." The plants also face pressure from invasive non-native species, like ice plants and pampus grass, "that are basically kicking the Dudleya out through invasion." "If this goes unchecked, we could be without Dudleya," Van Hattem stressed. For Freeling, the takeaway message is one he's been preaching for decades: "If we had people taking every little pretty critter and plant, we'd have nothing left." "Go to a nursery and buy them." CDFW asks the public reports possible poachers and polluters by calling the anonymous tip line 1-888-334-CalTIP. 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. In route news, United is making some adjustments to its European service from San Francisco next winter; Delta will bring its buzzy new Airbus A220-100s to San Francisco and other western markets in January; travelers to Brazil are getting a break on visas; American's AAdvantage program gets a big new foreign partner; more details emerge on El Al's new service to San Francisco and Chicago; TAP Air Portugal is expected to continue a robust U.S. expansion next year; Delta drops one international route from Detroit and boosts capacity on another; Air India suspends a New York route; Norwegian adopts a bus/fly strategy for some East Coast travelers; and Mexico's Volaris continues its transborder expansion. "In response to customer demand for better connectivity at its European partner hubs," United is switching its nonstop SFO Amsterdam service to summer seasonal operation that will end October 25. The new SFO-AMS nonstops, initially scheduled for year-round, crank up on March 30, 2019, so it seems odd that United is already cutting back on the route before it even begins. At the same time, United is converting SFO-Munich to year-round, with flights continuing after October 26. United uses 787-9s on both routes. Munich is a hub for Star Alliance partner Lufthansa. United will continue winter service to Amsterdam from Chicago O'Hare, Newark, Houston and Washington Dulles; customers holding reservations from SFO to Amsterdam for next winter will be automatically rebooked through one of those other hubs. KLM will then be the only airline flying nonstop between SFO and Amsterdam. We'll be on United's SFO-AMS inaugural flight later this month so stay tuned for our report! Previously, the only Bay Area service announced for Delta's brand-new Airbus A220-100 single-aisle (the one that famously has a window in the lavatory) aircraft was San Jose-Seattle, which begins June 8 for two of its six daily flights in that market. The initial rollout of the plane was on routes out of New York, Dallas and Detroit. But Delta's latest schedule filings show that it plans to bring the A220s to San Francisco and other western U.S. markets next winter. On January 6, it is due to start using the new jets on six daily roundtrips between San Francisco-Seattle and four a day from SFO to Salt Lake City. Currently, Delta uses A319s, 737s and E175s on those routes. On December 21, the A220 will go onto service on one daily Los Angeles-Austin flight and three a day between LAX and Seattle, followed on January 6 by one daily Seattle-Salt Lake City flight. Here's our detailed look at those popular new planes. Or see the slideshow at the top for images. Related: Airlines falling in love with the Airbus A220 Are you planning a trip to Brazil this year? If you go after June 17, you will no longer have to get a visa in advance. Before that, the existing requirement to obtain an e-visa still applies. The Brazilian government said it will start allowing visa-free entry for citizens of the U.S., Canada, Australia and Japan as of mid-June. Visitors from those nations will be able to stay in Brazil for up to 90 days without a visa, and that can be extended to 180 days. Brazil is making the change in an effort to increase the number of foreign visitors it receives. After it adopted its easier e-visa system last year, officials said, arrivals from the four affected countries increased by 35 percent. China Southern Airlines still isn't becoming a member of the Oneworld alliance, but it keeps getting closer and closer to American Airlines, which owns a small equity stake in the Chinese carrier. In recent months, the two airlines greatly expanded their code-sharing partnership to more routes, and now China Southern has joined American's AAdvantage loyalty program. Effective this week, AAdvantage members can earn and burn miles all across China Southern's route network, which includes 2,000 flights a day to 224 cities in 40 countries, and China Southern's Sky Pearl Club members can do the same on American. Award travel can currently be booked only by phone, but it should be offered online later this year. Here are the details from American's website. More details have come out about El Al's plans for increased service to the U.S., including its delayed San Francisco-Tel Aviv route, which was supposed to start late last year. The airline said it will begin flying SFO-TLV on May 13, continuing through August 17. The airline's 787 service will operate three times a week, with SFO departures on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 10:45 p.m. (United also offers nonstop SFO-TLV flights.) El Al will also begin weekly Las Vegas-Tel Aviv flights on Saturdays beginning in June, and in March 2020 it will kick off Chicago-Tel Aviv service three days a week, with departures from O'Hare on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. TAP Air Portugal, which launches SFO-Lisbon nonstops in June, also has big long-term plans for increased service to North America. We've previously reported on its intentions to launch five flights a week to San Francisco from Lisbon on June 10 of this year, and to add Lisbon-Chicago and Lisbon-Washington Dulles service in the same month. And now the airline's chairman said in a recent speech that TAP has its eye on further expansion in 2020 by adding service to Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles and Montreal, although he provided no details. The airline already flies to New York JFK, Newark, Miami, Boston and Toronto. Don't miss a shred of important travel news! Sign up for our FREE bi-weekly email alerts Norwegian has had to adjust its service to the northeastern U.S. as a result of the 737 MAX groundings, and that adjustment will put some of its passengers on a bus. The airline said it has put a 787-9 Dreamliner into service between Dublin and upstate New York's Stewart International Airport in place of the 737 MAX it had been using. That grounded airplane was also on Norwegian's Providence-Dublin route, but now those Providence passengers will have to use Stewart as their gateway. "Arrangements are being made to accommodate passengers booked to travel from Dublin to Stewart and Providence on the new Dreamliner service with plans to bus passengers to Providence upon arrival in New York," the airline said. In other international news, Delta will drop its seasonal Detroit-Sao Paulo service next winter; the current schedule ends March 29. Delta had previously planned to operate three flights a week on the route starting on October 27. Meanwhile, Delta will add a sixth weekly frequency this summer on its Detroit-Nagoya, Japan route, starting April 1. Air India has temporarily suspended its three weekly New York JFK-Mumbai flights from now through June 2, but it still has daily Mumbai service from Newark. And Mexican low-cost carrier Volaris is adding more U.S. service this year, including twice-weekly flights from Chicago Midway to Aguascalientes, Albuquerque to Chihuahua, Phoenix to Puerto Vallarta, and Chicago O'Hare to Queretaro, all starting in mid-June; three flights a week from Dallas/Ft. Worth to Durango beginning June 15; and twice-weekly service from Fresno to Leon/Guanajuato as of October 28. 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. HELSINKI A cruise ship with engine problems sent a mayday call off Norways western coast Saturday as it desperately tried to avoid being grounded on the rocky coast. Rescue workers then began a high-risk evacuation of the ships 1,300 passengers and crew, winching them one by one up to helicopters as heaving waves tossed the ship. MAZAR-E-SHARIF, Afghanistan After the second firefight in the past 10 days between U.S. soldiers and their Afghan allies, at least 14 civilians, most of them women and children, were killed in an air strike Saturday in northern Kunduz province, Afghan officials said. At least four Afghan soldiers were also killed. A spokeswoman for the U.S. military confirmed the attack, but blamed the outcome on the Taliban. We are fighting in a complex environment and this firefight is a prime example of the challenges Afghan and coalition forces face every day, said Sgt. 1st Class Debra Richardson. The Taliban were hiding in civilian homes and maneuvered in and out of compounds without any concern for the families living inside. The incident Saturday came a day after two members of a U.S. Special Forces unit identified as Spc. Joseph Collette, 29, of Lancaster, Ohio, and Sgt. 1st Class Will Lindsay, 33, of Cortez, Colo. and four Afghan Special Forces soldiers were killed during a joint operation in Gul Tepa district, on the outskirts of Kunduz city, and involved some of the same forces, according to Afghan official accounts. The insurgents were reportedly massing on the outskirts of the city. The latest episode began around 3 a.m. Saturday, after a convoy of U.S. and Afghan Special Forces left the area of the previous days combat and an armored vehicle used by the Americans broke down. When the soldiers got out, an Afghan soldier nearby opened fire; Afghan officials described him as a Taliban insider who deliberately provoked the attack. The Americans fired back, and Afghan soldiers stationed nearby returned fire at them, not realizing what had happened, according to Mohammed Ibrahim, the commander of Afghan Local Police in Kunduz province, who described it as an accident set off by the insider who first opened fire. Ibrahim said the two allies exchanged fire for 20 minutes before there were air strikes, which he said had killed 12 civilians and six soldiers. After attempting to find out if any Afghan units in the area were under fire, Richardson said, the Americans called in air strikes, bringing the fighting to an end. The Kunduz fighting brought to four the number of U.S. troops killed this year. Najim Rahim, Rod Nordland and Fahim Abed are New York Times writers. BAGHOUZ, Syria U.S.-backed forces declared military victory over the Islamic State group in Syria on Saturday after liberating the last pocket of territory held by the militants, marking the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. The nearly five-year war that has devastated cities and towns across northern Syria and Iraq ended in Baghouz, a minor border village where the cornered militants made their last stand, under a grueling siege for weeks. On Saturday, the Syrian Democratic Forces raised their bright yellow banner from a shell-pocked house where the militants once flew their notorious black flag. Below it stretched a field shattered by the battle, pitted by trenches and bomb craters and littered with scorched tents, twisted wreckage of burned out vehicles, unspent explosives and a few remaining corpses. Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved, tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF, referring to Islamic State by its Arabic acronym. The fall of Baghouz brings to a close a global campaign against the Islamic State group that raged in two countries, spanned two U.S. presidencies and saw a U.S.-led coalition unleash more than 100,000 strikes. The campaign has left a trail of destruction in cities in Iraq and Syria, likely killed tens of thousands and drove hundreds of thousands from their homes. The campaign put an end to the militants proto-state, which at its height four years ago was the size of Britain and home to some 8 million people. But the extremist group still maintains a scattered presence, with sleeper cells across Syria and Iraq. Its not known whether the groups leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is still alive or where he might be hiding. Islamic State affiliates in Egypts Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan and other countries continue to pose a threat, and the groups ideology has inspired lone-wolf attacks that had little if any connection to its leadership. The end of the caliphate also marks a new phase in Syrias civil war, now in its ninth year. The country is carved up, with the Iranian- and Russian-backed government of President Bashar Assad controlling the west, center and south, the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led forces holding the north and east, and Turkish allies controlling a pocket in the north. The fear now is of new conflict among those players. At a ceremony held later Saturday at the nearby al-Omar oil field base, a senior U.S. diplomat, William Roebuck, said the territorial defeat of the Islamic State group is a critical milestone that delivers a crushing and strategic blow to the extremist group. But he stressed it remains a significant threat. We still have much work to do to achieve an enduring defeat of IS, he said. The commander in chief of the SDF, Gen. Mazloum Abdi, appealed for continued assistance to his group until the full eradication of the extremist group. He spoke at the ceremony during which fighters marched to a military band. The victory declaration sets the stage for President Trump to begin withdrawing most of the 2,000 U.S. troops stationed in northern Syria, as he abruptly announced in December that he would do. Trump, however, later agreed to leave a small peacekeeping force of 200 soldiers in Syria to ensure Turkey will not get into a conflict with the SDF. Turkey views Kurdish members of the SDF as terrorists. The Kurds fear being abandoned by the Americans. They are squeezed between a belligerent Turkey from the north, which regards them as a national threat, and Syrian President Bashar Assads forces from the south. Philip Issa, Andrea Rosa and Maya Alleruzzo are Associated Press writers. In his bid to maintain power over a crumbling nation, President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela has returned to a strategy that has served him well in the past: Hold tight and wait out his opponents. Its what the president did in 2014, when the opposition barricaded streets to try to topple him. He used the same strategy three years later when his effort to nullify the countrys opposition-controlled legislature set off protests that petered out after four months. And now, as the oppositions latest attempt to end his presidency drags into its third month, Maduro appears to be digging in once again weathering sanctions on the countrys oil industry, isolation from more than 50 countries, a parallel government set up to challenge him, a steady trickle of military desertions and a days-long national power failure unlike any the country had seen. At the same time, the United States, which has been pushing to oust Maduro, gambled on a strategy of sanctions and other pressure that it thought would work quickly, but hasnt. Last week, Maduro even took the offensive. On Thursday, Venezuelan intelligence agents stormed the home of Roberto Marrero, chief of staff of opposition leader Juan Guaido, taking him into custody on charges of being part of a terrorist cell. The government is doing everything it can to force a sense of exasperation with Guaido and force people to lose faith in him, said Geoff Ramsey, assistant director for Venezuela at the Washington Office on Latin America, a human rights group. The surge of support for Guaido came within weeks, he continued. They know it can vanish just as quickly. Since Guaido returned to Venezuela on March 4, the two men, who both claim to be the countrys rightful leader, seem to be playing a kind of waiting game. At one point, it seemed as if Guaido had the upper hand; the number of countries recognizing him over Maduro as the countrys rightful president was growing, and the opposition said it was courting the countrys military to take its side. But many believe Guaidos momentum has slowed. Around Caracas, Guaidos message seems to be hitting a wall among many whose main concern is finding food and water amid the countrys continuing economic crisis. Each time they hold another march, theres no transportation, and I have to pay for a taxi or a motorcycle to get to work I lose, said Gabriel Rondon, a 25-year-old in the neighborhood of El Hatillo who has a job in a struggling cafe. In the barrios, no one knows Guaido. I know his name, thats about it. Another problem for Guaido is the strategy of his chief patron, the United States. The Trump administration gambled that a barrage of sanctions in January and February would undermine Maduro so quickly that his armed forces would turn on him and install Guaido as president. In addition to the January oil sanctions, the United States targeted governors, generals, intelligence agency heads, the state oil company and a Russian bank partly owned by Venezuela. It also canceled visas for dozens of friends and relatives of Maduro. On Friday, the United States issued new sanctions targeting the countrys development bank and other institutions it owns. But by using all of its ammunition at once to aid Guaido, the United States has little leverage against Maduro now that the conflict is dragging on. Maduro now realizes the U.S. has played all its big cards and hes started to look into a medium-term strategy, said Christopher Sabatini, a lecturer at Columbia University who studies the region. While the economic sanctions will continue to cripple Venezuelas crumbling economy, Maduro appears to be trying to evade them. And Maduro, so far, has also been able to hold onto his chief diplomatic patrons, China and Russia, both of whom are suspicious of U.S. intentions in the region and are owed billions in debt from Maduro, who pays much of it with barrels of oil. Nicholas Casey is a New York Times writer. HANOI Vietnamese authorities have ordered monks at a popular Buddhist pagoda to stop soul summoning and bad karma eviction ceremonies after an investigation found the rituals were a swindle. Tens of thousands of worshipers have been paying the 18th century Ba Vang pagoda in northern Quang Ninh province between 1 million and several hundred million dong ($45-$13,500) to have their bad karma vanquished, according to the state-run Lao Dong (Labor) newspaper. The Committee for Religious Affairs, a government body, issued a statement on its website saying the ritual goes against Buddhist philosophy and violates Vietnams law on religion and folk beliefs. It has a negative impact on social order and security, it added. Calls to the pagoda were not answered. Monks at the pagoda teach that all illnesses and misfortune result from bad deeds in previous lives. Three times a month, they hold a two-day ceremony to summon wandering souls and remove bad karma, demanding donations, supposedly representing good deeds, to help cure bad karma and make up for supposed bad deeds in previous lives. Such rituals have been going on for years, but the practice has drawn unfavorable attention as the amounts demanded by the monks soared to the point where they began taking payments by bank transfers and by installments. Public outrage flared when an inspirational speaker associated with the pagoda blamed a victim for being gang raped, saying she had committed evil acts in a past life in comments posted on the pagodas website and on social media. The 20-year-old college student was taken hostage and raped by five men for two days before she was killed on the eve of the Feb. 5 Lunar New Year. The teaching was hurtful and disrespectful to the soul of my daughter, Tuoi Tre, another official newspaper, quoted the womans mother as saying. Ba Vang pagoda was built on a mountain slope in Uong Bi district of Quang Ninh province. It was recently renovated and expanded to become one of Vietnams largest pagoda complexes. A man who stole a car in Canada's capital city drives very dangerously in a series of hit and runs at the University of Ottawa Campus. In the video, we can see that the car is severely damaged and drifts erratically, almost knocking pedestrians down. The filmer wrote: "The video was taken the second time he (the driver) went around the block and headed towards the Ottawa University Campus for the second time." Police were called to the campus after several people reported seeing a van speeding dangerously through the streets, hitting multiple vehicles. The driver eventually abandoned the van and was arrested by officers nearby a short time later. The 36-year-old is facing several charges. There were no reports of injuries. 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 Tens of thousands of tourists had their holiday plans scuppered tonight after Thailand's nightlife spots were closed for the country's general elections. Bangkok's famous gogo bars and nightclubs are normally bustling with sex workers entertaining tourists from around the world on a Saturday evening. While the well-known Khao San Road has backpackers drinking until the early hours of the morning. But the country votes for the first time in almost a decade on March 24 and the military rulers banned all sales of booze in the run-up to the controversial ballot. Strip clubs in the Soi Cowboy strip were deserted while bars in the neighbouring Patpong district did not open for the evening. In the Soi 4 'Nana' area, some bars stayed open with signs outside warning tourists that alcohol had been banned for the night. Police patrolled the streets making sure that no holidaymakers were drinking and that supermarkets had stopped selling alcohol until the elections conclude tomorrow evening at 6pm. The elections - widely regarded by critics as being rigged by the military - are the first time the country has went to the polls in since the army seized power in 2011 instilling General Prayut Chan-o-cha as leader. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Todays archive page is from July 8, 1919. Staten Islands Health Department receives complaints from bathers and proprietors of bathing establishments that the beaches waters have been polluted with large amounts of oil and tar. Bathers say they have come out of the water covered with the materials, and have had to scrub themselves with kerosene to get the sticky stuff off. The oil and tar appear at the end of ebb tide and the beginning of flood tide. So the presence of oil may be due to the pumping of the ballast from oil tank steamships into the bay near the docks of the oil companies in New Jersey. This appears to be a violation of federal law. If you have trouble viewing the page below, click here to enlarge it. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A year after calling for better security in the citys public schools, Michael Reilly, now in the state Assembly, is continuing his push to lock front doors of academic buildings and hire retired police officers to supplement security. The retired NYPD lieutenant and former president for the District 31 Community Education Council (CEC), Reilly has been calling for locked doors and retired police officers in schools since the 2012 mass shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. Now as the South Shore assemblyman, Reilly is researching prior pieces of school safety legislation that were introduced and reintroduced -- in the hopes of contributing knowledge from his law enforcement and education backgrounds. Theres a lot of things I came up with as an advocate the last 10 years talking about school safety, and they were introduced into legislation, Reilly said. They may not have all passed, but they still continue to be reintroduced. Theyre repeatedly working on getting that legislation passed and those are the things that Im going to continue looking into and shaping as much as I can now that Im a member as well. SCHOOL SAFETY Under the citys current Department of Education (DOE) policy, all doors in school buildings are locked and alarmed except for the front door, which is monitored by one or more school safety agents. The CEC made a proposal in 2012, titled Comprehensive School Safety and Security, that would call on the DOE, the NYPD and the state legislature to adopt several security measures. Some proposals included: locking all doors; installing security cameras at main entrances to school buildings; and designating retired police officers as special patrolmen to supplement school security. In 2014, the state legislature created grant funding for schools to improve safety, which included cameras and buzzer entry systems for the schools front doors. The grant funding wasnt available to New York City because it excluded any school district with a population of more than 1 million students. New York City adopted some proposals, including updating public address systems and increasing Building Response Team training. The hurdle now is to get the mayors office to adopt these laws into New York City, Reilly said. The laws that were passed already to allow retired police officers to be hired to supplement school security, the locking of the front doors to schools, adding alarms. The assemblyman said he is continuing to research school safety bills already introduced and will focus on expanding communication between agencies during a school emergency, specifically between the DOE and emergency personnel. These options are already there for New York City, he said. The problem is that the current administration doesnt want to implement these common sense solutions for school security. The DOE deferred comment to the mayors office, which said the agency works closely with the NYPD to ensure all school buildings are secure. We trust the NYPD to keep our students safe, said Olivia Lapeyrolerie, a spokeswoman for the mayors office. The mayors office added that it has detailed safety protocols and procedures in place, including instructing all schools to staff the main entrance with a School Safety Agent and locking all other exit doors. INCREASE TRANSPARENCY Earlier this month, Reilly introduced a bill to reform the Panel for Education Policy in a bid to make the panels actions more transparent. The panel has 13 members, with eight being appointed by the mayor and five appointed by each borough president. Under the bill, the mayor would lose one appointment and the public advocate would gain an appointment on the panel. Reillys bill would also prevent members from being removed without cause if they vote against what their appointee wants. It would set a two-year term limit for panel members, and set mayoral control to a term of five years. FOLLOW ANNALISE KNUDSON ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Its been 75 years since 15 brave soldiers paddled their way to an Italian comune known as Ameglia, Liguria, for a covert mission during World War II known as Operation Ginny. The operation was breached and they were executed by the German army on March 26, 1944. Among them was a soldier named Rosario Squatrito, 22, who was a resident of South Beach and a volunteer for the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), a precursor to the Central Intelligence Agency. Joseph Squatrito, a late resident of Great Kills, wrote about his uncle in his book named, Code name: Ginny, which details the failed mission and the sacrifices the squad made together. Operation Ginny had its roots in a decision made by Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower in February 1943. The supreme commander of Allied forces in Europe agreed to allow the OSS, to deploy commando units against German forces occupying Italy, France and other countries. The 2671st Special Reconnaissance Battalion, stationed on Corsica, off the western coast of Italy, was one of those units and Rosario Squatrito was one of its members. A key Allied target in Italy was the Genoa-La Spezia rail line that ran along the western part of the country. Trains operating on this route supplied the Germans at the Anzio and Cassino fronts south of Rome, where Nazi Germanys Wehrmacht was inflicting horrific casualties on American ground troops and their allies. The Allied air forces attempted to cut the rail line by bombing, but their operations were hampered by the areas highly mountainous terrain. Accordingly, the decision was made to sever the line by using a sabotage party in what became Operation Ginny. The highly-trained men were chosen for the job based on their ability to speak fluent Italian. They had embarked on this mission prior, code named Ginny I that February, but were unsuccessful in finding their target. They made landfall on the second attempt the following month. Their objective required them to find the rail line, establish radio communication with PT boats and wait for further orders in rigging and detonating the 650 pounds of dynamite they hauled with them. But they experienced several problems, including the wrong location of the train tunnels, a communication loss with the PT boats, and enemy activity that forced the boats to abandon the troops. A farm that they hid in provided temporary cover; the owner opened his arms up to the Americans. However, a local fisherman soon saw the rubber boats the U.S. troops used washed up along the shoreline and reported it to the authorities. The troop was surrounded by Italian fascist militiamen. They were captured, questioned and soon handed over to the German armys 135th Fortress Brigade in La Spezia. After interrogating the troops, an immediate order from General Anton Dostler, head of the 75th German Army Corps, signed their death warrant and broke the rules of the Hague Convention. Although German troops knew the violation, they swore an oath to Adolf Hitler, who had decreed Allied saboteurs be put to death. While some in the Wehrmacht tried to reverse the order, they were immediately dismissed of their duties. The American troops were brought to Punta Bianca, southeast of La Spezia. There, in a group of eight and then seven, with their boots removed and their hands tied behind their backs, they faced a firing party of 10 men. Their bodies were placed in an unmarked pit, almost 20 feet long by 10 feet wide by 5 feet deep, and covered over. The Allies determined that Dostler had committed a war crime by ordering the summary execution of the Ginny men, who were captured in uniform and received neither trial nor hearing. The general was tried by a military commission in the Palace of Justice, Rome, on Oct. 8-12, 1945. He was executed by a firing squad. He was the first German general brought to trial as a war criminal. The troops were awarded the Silver Star posthumously and their dedication has been a reminder of the sacrifices our troops have made in order to preserve the freedom of this country. In 2001, the names of Squatrito and his troops were etched on a monument that was erected by the Cespino-Russo Post, American Legion, in South Beach. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A seventy-six-year-old resident of the New Lane Senior Center broke her arm, suffered two black eyes and other injuries to her face when she fell on an uneven sidewalk behind a gate that should have been closed. Residents of the Rosebank senior center, one of many New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) buildings across the city, were told that the gate and sidewalk would be fixed more than one year ago. I thought we were allowed back because the gate was open, Ramona Rosa told Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-East Shore/Brooklyn) and Lynn Patton, regional head of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), during a visit to the center on Friday afternoon arranged by the assemblywoman. The front door is not handicap accessible, the building lacks air conditioning and has pest and mold issues, residents said. Seniors make up the majority of NYCHA residents; its heartbreaking, Patton said. Folks need to age in place in a place thats livable. Not only are they suffering from inhumane conditions that face all NYCHA residents, add on to that navigating it while elderly. Its incomprehensible, she said. Patton has called NYCHAs conditions a humanitarian crisis. I think the word is weak compared to what Ive seen over the last month; its a national emergency in my opinion. NYCHA is the largest public housing authority in the western hemisphere, housing more people than the entire city of Miami. If the entire city of Miami was living in squalor, it would be everywhere, she continued. Malliotakis went on to call the city the biggest slumlord in New York. Sonia Diaz Larocca, a resident of 14 years, said seniors deserve to live in livable conditions. We paid our dues, were seniors; we dont deserve this. Ive been fighting longer here than I have my whole life, Larocca said, visibly angered by the situation. Malliotakis and Patton also stopped at the South Beach Houses on Lamport Boulevard in Arrochar. PATTON, DE BLASIO ARGUE BACK AND FORTH OVER BLAME In June 2018, federal prosecutors brought a lawsuit against NYCHA officials alleging they lied for years about falsifying required lead inspections, hiding deteriorating conditions, and failing to provide adequate and safe housing for residents. Earlier this year, HUD Secretary Ben Carson and Mayor Bill de Blasio signed a deal to bring in a federal monitor, chosen by a Manhattan federal judge and HUD, and the city will commit over $2 billion in funding over the next decade. The deal also dictates that de Blasio has until April to select a new NYCHA chair from a list of pre-approved people made by federal prosecutors, HUD and City Hall. Patton and de Blasio have bickered for weeks over the selection, or lack thereof, of a new chair. Hizzoner has repeatedly claimed that Patton has not been in on the conversation, something which she calls ludicrous. For the mayor to say that Im not talking to my own agency about a decision that we are overseeing is the most ludicrous Ive ever heard. If anything, ask him when was the last time I spoke directly to him, Patton said. Malliotakis said de Blasio has no right to criticize Patton. The mayor has the audacity to criticize the woman who is doing the job that he wont do; going to various buildings and meeting the people who live here, Malliotakis said. De Blasio told the Post that his office remains in daily talks with HUD leadership and said the conversations have been extremely productive. Lets just deal with the hypocrisy here; if you are Donald Trumps agent in New York City, and youre taking money away from public housing, its time to stop acting like youre here to help people in public housing, de Blasio told the Post. Patton said his criticism is not warranted because he knows the budget is a draft, as she continued to question NYCHA and the citys actions. NYCHA cant tell me they dont have the money. Why are they sitting on it? Where is it going? Why are so many people at NYCHA making more than $200,000. Why are people not getting the repairs that they need? Why is the mayor spending $400 million on overtime thats not even fixing anything. The city has nothing to show for the money and that is not okay with me. Im not going to keep throwing money at an inept mismanaged incompetent bureaucracy. That doesnt fix anything. The city isnt going to get one penny until the federal monitor figures out where the money is going, Patton said. A spokesman for de Blasio responded: "The only thing Lynne Patton is in a feud with is reality. The Mayor is only focused on helping residents and fixing the public housing Lynne Patton and Donald Trump neglected and underfunded. " STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A Staten Island resident was part of a long-running boiler-room scam that preyed on seniors, bilking clients of more than $9.3 million, authorities said. John DeSantis has since gotten out of the securities business, and hell soon be out of circulation for a while. DeSantis, 42, was recently sentenced in Brooklyn federal court to 30 months behind bars and two years supervised release for his prior plea to securities fraud. In December 2016, authorities announced the arrests of DeSantis, fellow Staten Islander Nicholas Spinelli, and several other defendants in connection with the scheme. An indictment prosecutors filed in Brooklyn federal court said DeSantis owned the Staten Island-based company, Premier Links, where he operated as an unregistered broker-dealer from December 2005 to August 2012. During that time, the company fraudulently solicited more than $9 million from 300 investors in 40 states, said authorities. According to court documents, the defendants targeted seniors, convincing them to invest in a microcap-stock scheme, then used clients money for personal expenses. Investigators said investors lost around $9.3 million. One client from Michigan was swindled of about $165,000, while another from Virginia was duped out of about $100,000, alleged court documents. The defendants persuaded their victims, which they referred to as "the suckers list," to send money via wire transfers and personal checks, authorities said. They then converted the money to cash via ATM and teller withdrawals, said court documents. Spinelli was president of Premier Links for two years from 2005 to 2007 and solicited investments on behalf of the company. In March 2006, the Pennsylvania Securities Commission ordered Premier Links and Spinelli to stop selling unregistered securities in Pennsylvania, according to Advance records. The case against Spinelli is still pending. DeSantis shuttered the business in August 2012 and left the securities trade, Patrick V. Parrotta, his lawyer, said in court filings. In a pre-sentencing memorandum, Parrotta asked District Court Judge Eric N. Vitaliano to sentence DeSantis to less than the recommended guidelines of 41 to 51 months in prison. DeSantis struggled with alcoholism during the time he was involved in the scheme, but has since turned his life around, wrote Parrotta. John DeSantis is a different individual today, Parrotta wrote. (He) had a very challenging childhood history, but in many areas of his social and family life he has overcome his past obstacles and is presently a grounded individual of good moral character. Besides prison time and post-release supervision, an order of forfeiture was entered against DeSantis for $973,000. I am thankful that Judge Vitaliano objectively looked at all the evidence before the court and considered my arguments and sentenced my client to 30 months, which was appropriate, and, in essence, one year below the sentencing guidelines, Parrotta said Friday when reached by phone. DeSantis must report to prison in May. 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! Roxy Jacenko's once loyal brigade of blonde doppelgangers are heading out the door thick and fast. Emerald City understands long-time publicist Grace Garrick finished up at Jacenko's Sweaty Betty PR firm two weeks ago. After five years at the agency, Garrick doesn't have a job lined up, but is doing freelance work. Fellow publicist Daniel Goldstein who started at Sweaty Betty as an intern finished up on the same day. He is also believed to have walked away from his role without a job to go to. Roxy alongside her two former staff members. Credit:Instagram Garrick and Goldstein are tight-lipped about their current relationship with Roxy, 38. However it's understood that the Instagram photo Grace posted announcing her exit from the company caused a stir with Roxy. Nobody can leave on good terms, a former staff member said. The moment you leave she blocks you on Instagram and things turn nasty. Other staffers who have parted ways with Roxy include Gemma Oldfield, who left the PR firm after two years, and longtime employee Holly Asser. Asser made a swift exit from the agency in 2018 after a disagreement with Roxy. But it's not just staff that the PR queen is jettisoning; on Friday Lawsons auctioneers sold off four shipping containers of Roxy's pre-loved belongings, including furniture, jewellery and other designer goods. The ACT government does not intend to introduce compulsory methamphetamine testing for rental properties, despite specialists in decontamination reporting an increased workload as more houses are found to be affected. Western Australia's government is set to consider mandatory testing, in an Australian first that would protect landlords from clean-up costs and prevent new tenants moving into a home that could have negative impacts on their health. BioCleanse director Bryan Norris, who says methamphetamine contamination in homes is a growing problem. Credit:Jamila Toderas An ACT government spokesman said the situation in Western Australia would be monitored "with interest", but the territory government's current priority was reforming residential tenancy laws to provide more security to renters in their tenancies. However, decontamination specialists say the scourge of ice is reaching an ever-increasing number of properties in Canberra and the surrounding region. An expert on memory says ACT Policing should appeal to the public for witnesses or information as soon as possible after crimes are committed, rather than waiting months like in several recent cases. Loading But police say they don't need to ask for public assistance in most cases, and sometimes it can take weeks or months to determine that they need to appeal for help because they don't have enough evidence for a prosecution. In the past six months, ACT Policing has regularly gone public with calls for witnesses or information several months after the incident under investigation took place. Opposition police and emergency services spokeswoman Giulia Jones questioned this practice during annual report hearings in November, after three delayed appeals for help including the release of CCTV from an aggravated robbery that was more than eight months old. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says becoming a parent has "almost certainly" affected her response to the Christchurch terrorist attack. In a preview for Monday nights The Project, Waleed Aly sits down with Ardern to talk about how New Zealand has responded to one of the countrys darkest days. The interview starts with an unexpected request from Ms Ardern, who asks Aly if he'd mind a hug. I know that might seem strange, Ardern says, as the two embrace. The pair then talk about how parenthood has "almost certainly" altered her response to the attack. Climate change is reshaping Australia's economy and financial system, and its consequences will be devastating without urgent action. If that message had not hit home, the Reserve Bank of Australia's intervention last week made it clear. Reserve Bank deputy governor Guy Debelle focused on how climate change can complicate setting interest rates. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen In last week's address to a Centre for Policy Development public forum, RBA Deputy Governor Dr Guy Debelle said climate change will have "first order economic effects" and could have major consequences for financial stability if transitions are disorderly and abrupt. Hot on Debelle's heels, APRA subsequently released its first climate risk stocktake, calling for banks, insurers and superannuation funds to step up their responses. Its survey of 38 large entities suggests many are dragging the chain on climate-related financial analysis and disclosure. The laggards can expect pressure to mount. APRA, its international counterparts and investors have signalled they want a little less conversation and a lot more action. As the sea breeze swept over the marginal seat of Coogee on Saturday, voters made clear their desire for a breath of fresh air. After a long stint at the polling booths from both parties, 32-year-old Labor candidate Marjorie ONeill will likely defeat the Liberal Partys Bruce Notley-Smith and become the first woman in history to hold the coastal electorate. Newly elected Labor MP for Coogee Marjorie O'Neal celebrates at Labors election party. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer The seat was one of the last to be called, with the major parties neck and neck as the numbers trickled in on Saturday night. Fresh-faced and eager to chat, the Waverley councillor and womens rugby coach stood at the entrance of Randwick Public School for hours on Saturday, welcoming each voter who walked through the gates. 'After the Party' author Cassie Hamer at her Queens Park home. Credit:Louise Kennerley Debut author Cassie Hamer knows Sydney's suburbs well. From her childhood home in Balgowlah to the leafy Bondi Junction street where she now lives with her husband, daughters and dog, the "school run in active wear" is well-trodden terrain for the 43-year-old former television journalist. As the mother of three girls ranging in age from six to 10, hosting pink-themed birthday parties with pinatas is also one of her specialities. Which is why a suburban Sydney birthday party provides the setting for Hamer's first published work of fiction, After the Party, complete with cupcake on the cover. Now in its fourth week of sales, according to Nielsen BookScan, the book was ranked number 18 in the Top 20 Australian-authored fiction list last week. Its also in the Booktopia Fiction Top Ten Chart this month. The "suburban noir" story examines what happens when an unexpected gift in the form of a child is left behind at a fifth birthday party - where the whole 32 students in the kindergarten class are invited. It has been described as Liane Moriarty meets Marian Keyes with a touch of Christos Tsiolkass The Slap. The first-time novelist, whose work was plucked from the "slush pile" at publisher Harlequin, best known for its Mills & Boon romances, is thrilled. "I had no real expectation or great hopes this would go anywhere," Hamer said. "For any writer the path to publication is paved with rejection of some kind . . . I'd written two other manuscripts that were very sad and serious and submitted them widely and they were soundly rejected. "In the interim I started reading Liane Moriarty and I just decided to throw off the shackles and write something that had lightness and a bit of humour which more closely reflected my own world view." A former Prime Television reporter, Hamer left journalism and went into corporate public relations, but gave up both for blogging from home when she had children. In 2016 Hamer gave herself a six month deadline for a first draft of a novel, when her youngest daughter went to preschool and her two eldest girls were at primary school. As the wife of Sam Dickerson, who runs the Dickerson Gallery in Queen Street, Woollahra, Hamer knows the eastern suburbs "yummy mummy" cliche well. Although the novel is Sydney-set, with the lead character Lisa living in Randwick and her sister Jamie in Paddington, the story takes some dark plot twists involving Russian mobsters and drug dealers. "There is a bit of a Sydney feel in the school gate culture there are some cultural references Sydney women will recognise from the way some of the mums turn up in active wear to the ridiculous things served in cafes," Hamer said. Loading "My main life story is I don't know who I am, I don't look like anybody, I didn't perform like anyone, I didn't talk like anyone. I was always like the square peg in the round hole," she said. Attempts by Ms Brown, who works in television production, to solve the mystery of her birth have failed. Other than two diary entries by the police she has no clues. The first entry records that she was found and sent to Deniliquin hospital. A second, and more promising lead, on Wednesday 7 March 1973, was about a mysterious young woman who wanted to see the babies in the hospital nursery. Police reported that the young woman, aged about 20 or slightly younger with "long dyed blonde hair", visited the hospital at 2.40pm wanting to visit the nursery. She was "well groomed, about 5' 5" inch high, wearing a green short dress and bone coloured cardigan". "(She) asked to see the babies. When questioned as to the reason she left immediately," reported the police. Others thought the baby girl may have been abandoned by a "carnie" passing through the town on the NSW side of the Victorian border for the annual Deniliquin show. Caron Brown as an infant at her foster home in Sydney in late 1973/early 1974. There is no evidence that police have pursued the case since 1973. "I wish there was a cold case for foundlings," said Ms Brown. Attempts to find relatives on genealogy sites using her DNA have also failed: "There were no green leaves [the symbol for finding a close relative]." When she heard that a newborn baby boy had been abandoned in Perth last Thursday, Ms Brown immediately felt a connection. "Hello my little brother from another mother. I am your sister in spirit," she said, wishing him well. She said with less stigma around children born out of wedlock, and in other situations, there was a better chance of him of finding his parents. Ms Brown was fostered as a temporary, emergency placement when she was five months old by a military family, the Browns, who lived in Sydney's north. Curiously, the Browns' surname was added to her birth certificate, suggesting that they'd promised NSW's Department of Community Services (DOCS) to adopt her. The documents she has sighted from DOCS reveal that her mother was continually asking for additional money to pay for the foster child. Mrs Brown delayed the adoption until Caron Brown was about 18, around the time that payments from the state to foster parents stop. It was a hard childhood, she said, with older siblings who had been formally adopted. Her adopted father died of cancer when she was 10. Very often people like Ms Brown who were adopted as children are told they are lucky to have a new family, said Nikki Hartmann, manager of Post Adoption and Forced Adoption Services for Relationships Australia (SA). Caron Brown's birth certificate has so many unknowns that some people have even thought it was a fake. Credit:Caron Brown supplied When they start searching for their genetic or birth parents they often face resistance. Yet millions of people who know their parents search for details of their family tree every day. "It's so unfair," said Ms Hartmann. She said most people don't understand the loss experienced by anyone who has been abandoned. "What we know now, a lot more than years ago, is about the trauma of that loss." "We know that babies feel that trauma. They have grown inside their mother. They know her smell, sound and movements, then they are taken away. The baby has experienced the first significant loss - also described as 'the primal wound'." "Adoptees tell us they are expected to feel grateful, and often feel like they have to pretend that they don't have another family," she said. For those of us who know our family it is easy to dismiss an adoptees' interest in finding their own, said Ms Hartmann. "People don't understand what it is like to grow up in a family where you don't have any genetic mirrors." That is, family who walk or talk like you. Ms Brown said that growing up she experienced stigma for being an abandoned child. A NSW Department of Community Services officer was in regular contact with her school, which meant teachers knew she had been fostered. "Teachers would tell kids, and parents would tell their children not to play with me. I was always a second class citizen wherever I went." As a ward of the state, she was told by her primary school teachers she'd end up in jail by the time she was 18. Like many adopted children, Ms Brown was hyper-vigilant. "It was like my foot was on the accelerator, and I would think everything in life was a threat." Ms Brown always wanted to find her birth parents, but she also worried about what she would discover. Deniliquin Pastoral Times reported Ms Brown's birth in Tuesday March 6 1973, a day after the premature baby was found on a doorstep. Credit:Deniliquin Pastoral Times "Pandora's box is a bitch ... I always felt like I was a dirty little secret. When you are brought up as a ward of state, people look at you differently," she said. Ms Hartmann said one thing she knows is that in time family secrets will come out, even if it is years or decades later. That was the case this month in the United States when South Dakota police arrested a woman who had abandoned her frozen baby in 1981. Using DNA testing and genealogy databases, police traced the baby's mother - a 57-year-old woman in Sioux Falls named Theresa R. Bentaas - and was expected to charge her with murder, reported The New York Times Cyclone Trevor has made landfall on the Gulf of Carpentaria coast near the border between the Northern Territory and Queensland after more than 2000 people were evacuated from its path. The system began to weaken after hitting the coast between remote Borroloola in the Northern Territory and the border with Queensland about 2.30pm (AEDT) on Saturday as a category 3 cyclone. Tropical Cyclone Trevor has weakened to a category three. Tropical Cyclone Veronica is bearing down on the area near Port Hedland in WA. By 9.30pm, it had been downgraded to a category two and was moving south-west between Cape Crawford in the NT and the border with Queensland. NT police held concerns for about a dozen people who were believed to have remained in the area expected to be affected. If I could ignore the tainted credentials of the messenger, Scott Morrisons post-Christchurch plea against tribalism and an us-and-them culture in public debate would merit attention. If he wasnt, that is, a veteran strategist in one of those tribes, his colleagues partly responsible for the current febrile political climate after nearly 20 years of demonising Muslims and refugees. It hardly matters whether Morrison suggested to the shadow cabinet in 2010 that it exploit the electorates concerns about Muslims for votes. (Morrison denies doing so.) The strategy was obviously employed, regardless of whose idea it was or even if it was explicitly named. Jacinda Ardern has given a masterclass in leadership in the wake of the Christchurch shooting. Credit:The Press After the tsunami of commentary this week, I dont need to list the examples of dog-whistling and race-baiting from within successive Coalition governments. A mash-up will do: We decide who comes to this country, though we decided wrong in the case of Lebanese Muslims, who have some trouble integrating into Team Australia, and who must condemn terrorism, acknowledge Don Bradman and do something about their bad fashion choices at citizenship ceremonies. Still, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has shown the world how cheap politicking and borderline incitement is really done; perhaps he thought himself entitled to extreme obnoxiousness because the alleged Christchurch shooter in his now infamous manifesto expressed a desire to take him out, along with Angela Merkel and London mayor Sadiq Khan. As polls closed on Saturday night, NSW Nationals leader John Barilaro said he was confident he would hold his must-win marginal seat of Monaro and possibly increase his margin. He also predicted the Coalition would be returned to government, saying there was no mood for change. During the final hours of his campaign, Mr Barilaro said was surprised by the positive reaction of constituents at voting booths throughout the electorate he holds on a slim margin of 2.5 per cent. Nationals leader MP, John Barilaro with nieces Gioia 6 and Milana Pavan,4 and holding daughter Sofia Barilaro 3. Credit:Elesa Kurtz "I'm feeling confident not only will I retain [Monaro], maybe [I will] even improve that margin," he said, taking a break from greeting voters at Karabar High School. Gladys Berejiklian conceded the NSW election would be tight as she vied to become the state's first popularly-elected female premier, but would not commit to a full term. Before casting her own vote in her safe Liberal seat of Willoughby, Ms Berejiklian said the result in the knife-edge state poll was "in the hands of the people". NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian began her day voting in Willoughby. Credit:Dean Sewell "We know it will be a tight result and it is up to the people of NSW to decide," she said during a breakfast television appearance on Saturday morning. But when asked if she would stay premier for the full term if the Coalition won, Ms Berejikilian was circumspect. For months, the opinion polls had the Liberals and Labor neck-and-neck, and the leaders were quick to brush them off. But on the night of the only poll that mattered, as results started trickling in, the Liberals were feeling nervous but confident. About 7.30pm on Saturday, Liberal loyalists in the grand ballroom of the Sofitel Wentworth hotel in Sydney's CBD were sharing stories and observations from voting booths and, while cautious, were "quietly confident" that Premier Gladys Berejiklian would seize victory. By 9.30pm, Labor leader Michael Daley had conceded, giving Berejiklian supporters the news they were after. Liberal supporters wait for NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian to enter the ballroom of the Sofitel Wentworth on Saturday night. Credit:James Brickwood Amid supporters wearing clean-cut suits and bright blue T-shirts emblazoned with the Liberals logo (or their boss's name), one person stood out by a mile. Former federal Labor leader Mark Latham looks set to secure a seat for One Nation in the NSW upper house, marking his return to public office after 14 years on the political sidelines. Minor parties including the Greens and the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers polled strongly in early election results as Premier Gladys Berejiklian returned to power with a possible majority in parliament. Mark Latham looks set to return to public life after 14 years on the political sidelines. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer With only a small percentage of upper house votes counted on Saturday, Pauline Hanson's One Nation is on track to secure one seat in the Upper House, which will go to Mr Latham. Mr Latham, the foremer Werriwa MP, has led the revival of One Nation party, which could see it become a powerful force in NSW politics for the first time in two decades. Labor had only claimed one extra seat outright as counting concluded on Saturday night, in a poor result that is expected to trigger questions about Michael Daleys future as leader. The Berejiklian government claimed a third term for the Coalition, with Labor's vote down one per cent across the state on its 2015 result. In conceding defeat, Mr Daley thanked those who had supported him, the party and vowed to stay the NSW Labor leader. Labor leader Michael Daley concedes on Saturday night. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer "You can hold your head high, all of you, as can our party," he told the party faithful. Before he cast his vote, Opposition Leader Michael Daley's first election day commitment was for what he calls his lucky pie - "just a plain pie, no sauce" - and a strawberry milk at a Matraville shop. Before taking a bite, he fired off another shot at the state government on what have become his key talking points. Michael Daley began his day with a pie and a strawberry milk. Credit:Louise Kennerley "We're all about positive policies, with no strings attached," Mr Daley said. "We'll [end] the chaos the Liberals and Nationals have brought you over the last eight years with the light rail, the stadiums, putting a toll on western Sydney for the next 43 years, all the dead fish in the rivers, the chaos of the hospital in the northern beaches." The pie is a tradition dating back to elections over 30 years. There's a particular posture Scott Morrison adopts when he's pushing back in an interview. He leans back in his chair, clasps his hands together and crosses one leg over the other. Often his voice will pitch up in tone or he'll adopt an air of incredulity, as if signalling the question is stupid or the answer obvious. Sometimes he's probably right. I've seen this up close myself and the country saw it in full bloom during his 35-minute interview with Waleed Aly on The Project on Thursday night. Scott Morrison was visibly incensed he had been accused of fostering Islamophobia. Credit:Network 10 The whole occasion was, frankly, bizarre. Morrison was ostensibly drawn to the interview to defend himself against accusations levelled at him in a 2011 news report in The Sydney Morning Herald that he told a shadow cabinet meeting the Coalition should think about exploiting anti-Muslim sentiment for votes. Aly referred to this report in an editorial the night of the Christchurch massacre. The clip has been viewed more than 14 million times. Suddenly, ancient history raised troubling questions about the Prime Minister's character. The report in question may not paint him as prejudiced but it definitely makes him look unscrupulous. The mass mobilisation comes after a week of turmoil and confusion, where seemingly everything and nothing changed. After a summit in Brussels, Britain's Brexit Day was pushed back from March 29 until at least April 12, but it remains unclear whether Britain will truly leave then or at a later deadline of May 22 or if it will leave at all. May could try to muscle her twice-rejected deal through Parliament next week. But if that fails - and the odds are against her - then Britain could be headed for a softer Brexit, or a no-deal Brexit, or a general election or even, yes, a second referendum. Since the Brexit vote in 2016, the prospect of a second referendum has gone from something once barely imaginable to something remotely possible. Critics argue that a second referendum would be deeply damaging to democracy and a betrayal of those who chose to leave. If official estimates match the one-million number, it would make it one of the biggest demonstrations Britain has ever seen. Credit:AP But a no-deal Brexit brings its own unsettling script. Britain has even staged dress rehearsals for some of the scariest scenarios of leaving the European Union without a firm breakup plan: possible medicine shortages and massive traffic jams for Continent-bound trucks now having to deal with customs controls. Supporters of a second plebiscite say that the first referendum was a singular moment in time and point to allegations of rule-breaking by the campaigns for and against. Besides, they argue, shouldn't people be allowed to have a say on the actual Brexit deal on the table isn't that democratic, too? Brexit remains a divisive issue and, at times, the atmosphere has grown overheated and toxic. Anna Soubry, a lawmaker who quit May's Conservative Party to join a new Independent Group, said she has received death threats for her pro-EU position on Brexit. She urged the public who supported a second referendum to come out on Saturday to deflate that kind of abuse. Loading Attitudes on Britain's EU membership have shifted since 2016, when Britons voted 52 per cent to 48 per cent to leave the European Union. For most of the past year, polls have shown a slight majority would now opt to remain in the bloc. Pollsters say that the small but persistent swing is partly down to changing demographics. Younger people are overwhelmingly pro-EU, and those teens who couldn't vote in 2016 are now of voting age. The majority of voters 65 and older voted to leave the bloc, and some of them have since died. "We weren't given a chance to vote even though it's our future," said Amelia Theodorou, 17, who was holding a sign that said "Never Gonna Give EU Up." EU supporters, calling on the government to give Britons a vote on the final Brexit deal, participate in the 'People's Vote' march in central London. But if a do-over is going to happen, then it's not just the people noisily cheering outside of Parliament on Saturday that need to get behind the idea. Only a handful of Conservative MPs are calling for a second referendum, and while the opposition parties back the idea, support from some quarters seems lukewarm. Protestors want another public vote on Brexit. Credit:Bloomberg A second referendum would also take an estimated five months to organise, and there is the vexing issue of what to put on the ballot paper. "It's unlikely at the moment, simply because there just doesn't seem to be support from Parliament," said Anand Menon, a professor of European politics at King's College London. But, he added, that in these febrile times, "anything is a possibility". The British Prime Minister has made it clear she is opposed to a second referendum. If she doesn't pass her withdrawal deal on its third outing, however, then Parliament could start to seize control of the Brexit process. One option is to hold a series of "indicative votes" that would help to sift out what Parliament does want. Loading Some second referendum campaigners say that sequencing is everything and that a new plebiscite has the best shot of becoming a possibility if other options are first disregarded. Of course, Britain could just cancel the whole Brexit mess. A petition to revoke Article 50 - in effect the EU exit papers - is now one of the most popular petitions on the British Parliament's website. But even though Britain can, in theory, pull the plug on Brexit, the more likely route to staying in the European Union would be by putting a vote to the people again. That's what Emma Knuckey, 38, said she wants. She voted to leave in 2016 in part because of the infamous red double-decker bus with its claim that money sent to the European Union could instead be used to fund Britain's national health-care system. Macron said welcoming refugees was a moral duty. He won the election by 66 per cent to 34 per cent. It is not clear if the shooter attended any rallies, but the rhetoric would have been hard to ignore and he was clearly aware of it from his so-called manifesto. France is also the original home of the "identitarian" far-right movement, whose racist policies were extensively echoed in the shooters so-called manifesto. French authorities are investigating whether he contacted any French extremists. He said he had also visited war graves in north-eastern France. The trip may have coincided with the Anzac Day ceremony at Villers-Bretonneux. United Kingdom In April-May 2017 Britain was gearing up for a snap general election. Migration was a major theme of the campaign the Conservatives had pledged to reduce and control migration, while Labour rejected bogus immigration targets. British anti-terror police have warned of a rising wave of far-right terrorism. In June 2016, a white supremacist murdered Labour MP Jo Cox in Yorkshire. The killer had called Cox a traitor to white people and had links to far-right groups including the National Front and English Defence League (EDL), and collected Nazi regalia and clippings about far-right Norwegian terrorist Anders Breivik. The Christchurch shooter reportedly entered Britain from France in 2017. In his so-called manifesto the shooter referred to the Rotherham scandal, a period of 20 years of child sexual abuse in that Yorkshire town by British-Pakistani men that local authorities failed to investigate or prevent. English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson. Credit:PA In May 2017 far-right former EDL founder and leader Tommy Robinson was also active, promoting provocative online videos that saw him convicted of contempt of court. The shooter was thought to have stayed in Britain for a few weeks. British security services are examining whether there were any links or contacts between the shooter and groups or individuals in the UK. Spain Islam has a rich and still-visible heritage in Spain, which was ruled by Muslim sultans from the 8th century until the Reconquista ("reconquest"), driven by Christian kings, finally drove them from their last stronghold in Granada in 1492. The approximately two million Muslims now in Spain arrived mainly in the last two decades from Africa. Santiago Abascal, the national president of Vox, centre, applauds during a rally of the far-right party in Madrid, Spain. Credit:AP Journalist Ignacio Cembrero told Politico that Muslim migrants tended to live in particular areas that can give the feeling like youre somewhere in Morocco or Algeria. He added: I dont think thats necessarily a problem. The far right has been on the rise in Spain in recent years. In 2018 the far-right Vox party in Spain took seats in a southern regional parliament. The partys leader has called for a new Reconquista. Spains government has recently tried to order the removal of hundreds of memorials: statues, street and square names, recalling the fascist Franco regime. At the time the Christchurch shooter claimed to have visited the country in 2017, there were pervasive fears about extremism in the name of Islam, though the terrorist attack in Barcelona that killed 14 and left more than 100 injured was yet to happen. The shooter wrote the name of a Spanish neo-Nazi, jailed for the murder of an anti-fascist protester a decade ago, on his weapons. The shooter claimed to have visited Spain in northern spring 2017. There were media reports speculating he visited Reconquista battle sites. Spanish media reported he visited in February 2018, spending one night in the southern city of Jerez, home to sherry, the famous Andalusian horses and architectural reminders of Moorish Spain. Portugal Portugal shares Spains rich and divisive - Islamic history. The shooter reportedly visited the Convento de Cristo in Tomar, home of the Order of Knights Templar who fought in the Reconquista. This world heritage 12th-century castle resisted a Muslim army for six days and is now a tourist favourite. In April 2017 it was reported the number of refugees taken in by Portugal had doubled though many then sought to move elsewhere in Europe. Portuguese newspaper Diario de Noticias reported at the time that integration difficulties were driving refugees to leave the country. Human rights researcher Margarida Teixeira has written of the problem of ghettoisation of Portuguese Africans one the peripheries of its main cities. However right-wing populism has failed to gain electoral support in Portugal. The far-right Renovador party won just 0.5 per cent of the vote in 2015 and the populist discourse is scarcely found in Portuguese politics', researcher Rodrigo Quintas da Silva wrote in a paper published by Nature in early 2018. He cited low immigration and the fact that most immigration to Portugal comes from countries with Portuguese as their mother tongue. Despite the challenges, this immigration has been well integrated in the Portuguese society, he said. Bulgaria Activist Mustafa Yumer told Reuters in 2009 people were very worried [and] scared by far-right parties who preach and want to see Bulgaria becoming a single ethnic nation. There were repeated acts of vandalism at mosques. Hundreds of Bulgarian nationalists march last month to honour an anti-Semitic World War II general. Credit:AP In 2017 the United Patriots won more than 9 per cent of the vote, enough to give them a part in the ruling coalition government. The parties leaders are notorious for their abusive racist comments and hate speech, historian Tom Junes wrote for Balkan Insight. Hate crimes, targeting members of national minorities like Roma and foreigners alike, have become rampant. Bulgarian authorities said Tarrant had visited the country multiple times. The most recent time he spent around a week there, arriving from Dubai. According to media reports he visited Sofia and Plovdiv, a city liberated from Ottoman rule at the end of the Russo-Turkish War of 1877/8. He reportedly hired a car and visited Pleven, the site of a battle in that war where Russian and local forces besieged the town and then forced the Ottomans into death or captivity. He also visited the scenic Shipka Pass, the site of a series of battles in the same war. A nearby church commemorates soldiers who died liberating Bulgaria from the Ottomans, with the names of Russian regiments and Bulgarian volunteers written on marble plates, and a church bell cast from spent cartridges. A Liberty Memorial at the battle site is a drawcard for nationalists one visitor wrote on TripAdvisor in late 2018 it was built to remember us the glory battle for our liberty from Ottoman yoke. Romania Romania in 2017 was a rare thing: it had no significant far-right political party. However anti-immigrant sentiment was stirred as refugees arrived from the Middle East in 2015. Researchers Georgiana Udrea and Oana Stefanita wrote an academic study in 2017 based on a small focus group that found some particularly older - participants associated asylum seekers with risks of terrorism and immorality. They are very dangerous, more dangerous than our gypsies, one focus group member said. When I think of refugees I think that they are extremists and indoctrinated with their religious beliefs, said another. Their intolerance was fuelled by the perception that Romania was too poor to help others, the researchers found. Peles Castle, Romania. The Christchurch shooter reportedly flew into the capital Bucharest from Bulgaria and hired a car. Romanian police are reportedly working to track his journey. He reportedly visited a monastery built where a Romanian prince once prayed for victory against the Turks, and a castle built around the time of Romanias war of independence from the Ottomans possibly Peles Castle in the Carpathian mountains. Hungary Hungarys Prime Minister Viktor Orban has styled himself the defender of Christian Europe against Muslim invaders. The television network al-Jazeera reported last year that growing numbers of Hungarys youth are joining far-right and neo-Nazi movements such as the Highwayman Army (Betyarsereg). That group supports racial violence and is both anti-Semitic and Islamophobic. Filmmaker Theopi Skarlatos said Orban had created a world ripe for the return of fascism by creating an atmosphere where Hungarians feels they must constantly defend against an invisible evil. The shooter reportedly arrived in Hungary in November 2018 on a train from Romania, travelling on a tourist visa. He spent about a week there. He wrote on his weapons the names of historical Hungarian military leaders who fought the Ottoman Empire in the 17th century. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban waves during the final electoral rally of his Fidesz party last year. Credit:AP In late 2018, around the time of the shooters visit, European leaders were in Marrakesh to sign a global compact on migration a pact that Hungary had led the way in refusing to sign (Australia also refused). The shooter referenced the pact in his so-called manifesto. Bosnia/Montenegro/Serbia/Croatia Islam arrived in this region in the 15th and 16th centuries, leaving a large population of Bosniaks as well as other ethnic and religious groups. After the collapse of Communism, when civil war enveloped the fracturing Yugoslavia, this group was targeted for genocide, as Bosnian Serbs enacted a policy of ethnic cleansing. Far-right groups in the Balkans have reportedly flourished in recent years, turning to the internet to promote the idea of ethnically pure nation states and neo-Nazism. Bosnian Muslims carry one of 127 coffins with identified victims of the Srebrenica massacre in 2016. Credit:AP The 2017 Islamophobia report, published by the Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research in Turkey, found that 2017 saw a rise in anti-Bosnian and anti-Muslim bigotry in Bosnia and a continuation of physical and verbal attacks on mosques and imams. In Serbia it saw the aggressive revival of political parties and individuals linked to the ethnic cleansing of the war with a radical anti-Muslim stance. The Christchurch shooter travelled by bus across Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina in late 2016. He reportedly visited the Museum of Marko Miljanov Popovic at Madun in Montenegro. Popovic was a late-19th-century Montenegrin Serb general and writer, who led fighting against the Ottomans. In Serbia, the shooter reportedly toured battle sites from the countrys war with the Ottoman Empire. Greece In 2016, Greece was reeling from the impact of the flood of refugees from the wars in the Middle East, which had coincided with the near-collapse of the countrys economy. Golden Dawn, the Greek neo-fascist party, had MPs in parliament. Its manifesto explicitly asserted the supremacy of the Greek race, tied to the legacy of ancient Greece and the historical conflict with the Ottoman Empire. Golden Dawn supporters in Greece await national election results in May. Credit:AP The Christchurch shooter visited Greece briefly in late 2016, including two stopovers at a Greek airport and a few days visit to the islands of Crete and Santorini. Officials are investigating his movements during the visit. Austria Centre-right politician Sebastian Kurz, the young chancellor of Austria, ran for office warning those who do not put clear limits on migration will soon start to feel like strangers in their own land. He formed a coalition government in 2017 with the Freedom Party, a movement founded by neo-Nazis, and whose presidential candidate narrowly lost the 2016 election. Austria is home to Martin Sellner, the European far-right group Generation Identitys highest-profile figure. Identitarian tropes were central to the Christchurch shooters so-called manifesto. The countrys domestic intelligence agency has established that the Christchurch shooter visited the country, but did not say when or for how long. An investigation is continuing into where he went and why. Poland Despite having a tiny proportion of immigrants almost none of them Muslim Polands ruling PiS (Law and Justice) party won power in 2015 partly by talking up fears of immigrants. The 'March of Independence' organised by far-right activists to celebrate 100 years of Poland's independence. Credit:AP Party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski told one campaign rally that Muslim immigrants were behind the emergence of very dangerous diseases which havent been seen in Europe for a long time. The anniversary of Polands independence day, in mid-November, is used as a rallying point for international far-right groups according to British anti-extremism group Hope Not Hate. Joe Mulhall, a senior researcher with Hope Not Hate, reported from last years march a sea of skinheads in bomber jackets. Iceland In 2016 a pro-refugee activist told the Iceland Monitor there was a trend of rising extremist forces of nationalism, prejudice and hatred, and Iceland is no exception. But the right-wing nationalist Icelandic National Front, which opposes new mosques and Islamic schools, came 11th in the 2016 national election with just 0.16 per cent of the vote. In 2017 the Foundation for Economic Education reported Iceland was largely immune to nationalist rhetoric and was friendly to foreigners. Ukraine Far-right extremists are active in Ukraine, as ultra-nationalist support was boosted by threats to Ukrainian sovereignty from Russia and elsewhere. Volunteers with the right-wing paramilitary Azov National Corps rally in front of the Ukrainian parliament. Credit:AP Somalia: Gunmen set off a suicide car bombing and then stormed a government building in Somalia's capital on Saturday, killing at least five people including the country's deputy labor minister, police said. It was the latest attack by Islamic extremists in the troubled Horn of Africa nation. After an hours-long gunbattle, Somalia's security forces took back control of the building in Mogadishu on Saturday afternoon from at least five attackers who forced their way into the government building that houses the ministries of labor and public works, police Capt. Mohamed Hussein told The Associated Press. Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, Somalia's deputy minister of labor and social affairs, was killed in his ground-floor office shortly after gunmen entered the building, he said. The scene of the attack on a government building. Credit:AP Hussein said at least 10 other people were wounded in the attack, which the al Qaida-linked al-Shabab extremist group has claimed responsibility for. New York: The end of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation represents a defining moment of Donald Trump's presidency. For almost two years, the investigation has loomed over Trump like a terrifying shadow, distracting and tormenting him. Meanwhile, millions of Democrats have invested enormous hope in the idea that Mueller will unearth something devastating about Trump something capable, perhaps, of ending his presidency prematurely. Mueller was appointed in May 2017 following Trump's explosive decision to fire FBI director James Comey. Barr has said he will draft his report for the chairman and ranking members of the House and Senate Judiciary committees. But here again, the regulations provide little guidance for what such a report would say. The attorney general is required only to say the investigation has concluded and describe or explain any times when he or Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein decided an action Mueller proposed "was so inappropriate or unwarranted" that it should not be pursued. In a letter Barr sent on Friday to the four lawmakers, he said there were "no such instances." He also said he may be in a position to advise them of Mueller's "principal conclusions as soon as this weekend." Barr said he would determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public after speaking with Mueller and Rosenstein. About 3000 people walked through Christchurch in a ''march for love'' early on Saturday, honouring the 50 worshippers massacred in the New Zealand city a week ago, as the mosques where the shooting took place reopened for prayers. Carrying placards with signs such as "He wanted to divide us, he only made us stronger", "Muslims welcome, racists not", and "Kia Kaha" - Maori for "stay strong" - people walked mostly in silence or softly sang a Maori hymn of peace. "We feel like hate has brought a lot of darkness at times like this and love is the strongest cure to light the city out of that darkness," said Manaia Butler, 16, one of the student organisers of the march. With armed police on site, the Al Noor mosque, where more than 40 of the victims were killed by a suspected white supremacist, reopened on Saturday. Police said they were reopening the nearby Linwood mosque as well. Georgetown, SC (29440) Today A few showers early becoming a steady rain overnight. Thunder possible. Low around 50F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight A few showers early becoming a steady rain overnight. Thunder possible. Low around 50F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%. A supernova explosion flung out a super-dense, whirling stellar core, sending it streaking across space at almost 2.5 million mph (4 million km/h) with a glowing trail 13 light-years long in its wake. Researchers tracked the stellar core, called a pulsar , using NASA's Fermi Gamma-Ray Space Telescope and the National Science Foundation's Very Large Array (VLA) astronomical observatory. The pulsar is about 6,500 light-years from Earth and was first discovered in 2017 by a citizen science project, Einstein@Home . It is moving fast enough to travel from Earth to the moon in just 6 minutes 5 times faster than the average pulsar moves, and faster than 99 percent of pulsar speeds previously documented by researchers. Scientists described the pulsar as a cosmic "cannonball" in a NASA statement. "Thanks to its narrow dart-like tail and a fortuitous viewing angle, we can trace this pulsar straight back to its birthplace," Frank Schinzel, a researcher at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in New Mexico, said in the statement . "Further study of this object will help us better understand how these explosions are able to 'kick' neutron stars to such high speed." Related: NASA's Fermi Space Telescope Marks 10 Years of Gamma-Ray Science The pulsar J0002+6216 streaks away from the bubble-like supernova remnant CTB 1. This composite image combines radio, visible light and infrared data. CTB 1, if viewed in the night sky, would appear to be the size of a full moon. (Image credit: Composite by Jayanne English, University of Manitoba, using data from NRAO/F. Schinzel et al., DRAO/Canadian Galactic Plane Survey and NASA/IRAS) Pulsar J0002+6126 was likely flung from the system after its predecessor star's supernova, eventually surpassing the expanding shell of gas and dust also released in the explosion, officials said in the statement. The object's long tail, which can be detected in radio wavelengths, comes from shockwaves as it travels through interstellar gas and dust, called the interstellar medium. The pulsar flashes regularly, its jets of gamma-rays sweeping by Earth 8.7 times per second as it spins. The research team took advantage of its regularity to measure the object's precise speed and direction. "The longer the data set, the more powerful the pulsar timing technique is," Matthew Kerr, a co-collaborator on the discovery and a researcher at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, said in the statement. "Fermi's lovely 10-year data set is essentially what made this measurement possible." The supernova explosion that initially propelled the pulsar likely occurred about 10,000 years ago; the object has travelled 53 light-years away from the epicenter of the blast. After about 5,000 years, the pulsar shot past the shell of gas and debris, which was slowed even more by the interstellar medium. The researchers are unsure how the supernova kickstarted the pulsar's flight; one explanation, officials said in the statement, could be that a dense patch of matter formed during the star's collapse and lasted long enough to tug the stellar core toward it. Future observations with the VLA, the NSF's Very Large Baseline Array and NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory may shed more light on the pulsar's swift exit. The new work was presented at an American Astronomical Society meeting in California and has been accepted for publication in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. A rare navigational tool has snagged a Guinness World Record as the oldest mariner's astrolabe. The astrolabe dates to between 1496 and 1501; it sank to the bottom with a shipwreck in 1503 near the coast of the island of Al-Hallaniyah, in what is now Oman. The find is one of only 104 historical astrolabes in existence. "It is a great privilege to find something so rare, something so historically important," David Mearns, an oceanographer at Blue Water Recovery, said in a 2017 statement after the astrolabe was first analyzed. Mearns, who led the archaeological excavation of the wreck, added, "It was like nothing else we had seen." [The 25 Most Mysterious Archaeological Finds on Earth] A maritime disaster Mariner's astrolabes are circular devices that sailors used to measure the altitude of the sun or stars, which allowed them to calculate their ship's latitude. The instrument that was just inducted into the Guinness World Records was discovered under a layer of sand in the Arabian Sea in 2014. The astrolabe went down with a ship under the command of a Portuguese commander named Vicente Sodre, who was the uncle of the famous explorer Vasco da Gama. Sodre and his brother, Bras Sodre, were commanding a subfleet of five ships in the 4th Portuguese India Armada in 1503. The two men were supposed to be patrolling off southwestern India, protecting a couple of trading outposts. Instead, the commanders went rogue and headed to the Gulf of Aden, where the officers and their men looted several Arab ships. The brothers then headed to Al-Hallaniyah and stopped to make some repairs. In May 1503, an enormous wind blew in, smashing two of the ships, the Esmeralda and the Sao Pedro, into the rocks of the island. Vicente Sodre died in the wreck; Bras Sodre also died on the island although historical records do not provide the cause of death. The disaster was famous because the ships went down laden with cargo and left Portugal's trading outposts open to an attack by Indian forces. In 1998, archaeologists surveyed the area where the ships were thought to have sunk and found what looked to be a wreck site. It wasn't until 2013, however, that the Oman government and researchers could arrange an excavation in the remote area. Over the next two years, archaeologists recovered almost 3,000 artifacts from the site, including a ship's bell inscribed with the year 1498. Navigation by the stars The astrolabe was found under 1.3 feet (0.4 meters) of sand in a natural gully near the wreck site. The artifact measures 6.9 inches (17.5 centimeters) in diameter and is festooned with the Portuguese coat of arms and an armillary sphere a representation of the position of celestial objects around Earth. (The armillary sphere was a common Portuguese emblem and is still part of the country's flag.) The metal used in making the astrolabe is an alloy made mostly of copper, with a little zinc, tin and lead. A 3D-laser scan of the astrolabe reveals tiny, eroded-away etches in the top right quadrant that would have allowed navigators to measure the altitude of the sun or stars to determine their ship's latitude. (Image credit: University of Warwick) Years of damage by saltwater and tides erased most of the other markings on the astrolabe. To uncover what could no longer be seen by the naked eye, researchers at the University of Warwick in England used laser scanning to detect the tiniest grooves and etchings on the disk. Their results, published in the International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, revealed 18 scale marks on the upper right of the disk, which would have allowed the navigator to measure the angle of the sun or stars. The first recorded use of an astrolabe was on an expedition by a Portuguese explorer in 1481, the researchers wrote, but the earliest versions were likely wood and did not survive the ages. The Sodre astrolabe had to be made before February 1502, when the squadron left Lisbon. The armillary sphere was an emblem of Dom Manuel I, the king of Portugal from late 1495 to 1521; the astrolabe was probably manufactured during his reign, at around 1496 at the earliest, the researchers concluded. The 1498 ship's bell and the dates of coins found at the wreck site all support that date range, they wrote. According to the University of Warwick, that ship's bell will also be taking a place of honor in the Guinness World Records as the oldest ship's bell ever discovered. Originally published on Live Science. Bursins (Vaud, Switzerland), March 23, 2019 (SPS) - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ramtane Lamamra hoped on Friday in Bursins that "more concrete" measures and "more significant" progress will support the effort of UN Personal Envoy for Western Sahara Horst Kohler. "This meeting has been useful as it means the continuation of the effort we hope will be accompanied by more concrete measures and significant progress as part of the UN process, which has the support of the international community as a whole," he told APS and the Algerian Television after the 2nd round table on Western Sahara. Next April, the UN Security Council will examine a report by UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres. Moreover, the Security Council has given new guidance, highlighting the need to accelerate efforts as part of the current resolution, the Minister said. This roundtable, convened by the UN Personal Envoy, was held in accordance with last Octobers Security Council Resolution 2440, which seeks a political, just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution providing for Western Sahara people self-determination. The head of the Algerian delegation said that the agenda of this second roundtable has essentially revolved around the need for confidence-building measures between the two parties to the conflict, Morocco and the Polisario Front. "An exchange of views took place on the capital importance of building confidence between the two parties and the specific confidence measures that could be taken," he said, stressing that it is "naturally an important area and the discussions must continue under the supervision of President Kohler." There were also reflection and exchange about the effort "to reach a common understanding of the terms used by the UN Security Council in its last resolution to describe the expected result of this meeting," said Lamamra The discussions were "very interesting," added the Foreign Minister. (SPS) 062/SPS/APS HARTFORD Connecticut lawmakers who support legalized sales of recreational marijuana said they want to destroy the black market for cannabis in the state, and offer communities impacted by 80 years of prohibition an opportunity to get into the business. But lawmakers admitted that the legislation they wrote to regulate commercial sales of cannabis was not perfect, especially when it comes to guaranteeing that minority communities benefit from this legislation. Any ongoing support of the prohibition of cannabis is essentially ongoing support for racism and the disparate practices that have destroyed communities of color, Kebra Smith-Bolden, CEO of CannaHealth in New Haven, told the Legislatures General Law Committee Friday. She said if Connecticut is going to move forward, it needs to create a regulatory structure that includes members of the communities directly impacted by the War on Drugs. Because of disparate policing policies, certain communities should have more applicants than others, she said. Jason Ortiz, executive director of CURE CT, a statewide organization focused on equity in the cannabis industry, said the group supports the spirit of the legislation, but believe it can be improved. He said HB 7371 doesnt specify residency requirements for equity applicants, so its possible someone with a past conviction in another state could apply for an equity license in Connecticut. He said theres also no enforcement mechanism to support the equity initiative in the legislation. How do we ensure a new license holder is going to meet a 20 percent hiring requirement? Ortiz wondered. Its very aspirational language, but without some sort of check or balance from the commission, theres no way to ensure that happens. State Rep. Michael DAgostino, D-Hamden, said he is concerned about some of the large players in the cannabis industry that might offer an equity applicant $100,000 to sell their license to the larger company. Ortiz suggested a watchdog agency that can oversee these equity requirements in the legislation. The bill doesnt contemplate what happens if an equity applicant sells their business to an individual or entity that would not qualify as an equity applicant. It is also unclear whether or not retailers can partially own other business types, Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle Seagull said in her testimony. Attorney Aaron Romano, who represents the Connecticut chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), said they want to make sure communities that were harmed over the past 80 years are given preference and at the moment, under HB 7371, thats not the case. He said maybe creating a time frame that an equity applicant has to hold their license, and not having any caps on the number of licenses would improve the legislation. We know big money is involved here, Romano said. Of the nine recreational stores open so far in Massachusetts, all are affiliated with large medical marijuana companies, according to MassLive.com. Daniel Glissman, an attorney with Prince Lobel who works with companies in Massachusetts, said theres no time restriction on the sale of a license in Massachusetts. Theres no minimum timeline they must hold the license before they can sell it, he said. Massachusetts has not capped the number of licenses, but its still been difficult for equity applicants in that state to get a license. The obstacle for small businesses in Massachusetts has been getting local approval before they move forward with the state regulatory process. Ortiz said the fees that towns are levying on these companies are much higher than the state fees, and act as a barrier to entry. Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin testified that Hartford has already changed its zoning laws to allow dispensaries where retail uses are permitted and grow facilities where industrial uses are permitted. Glissman said in Massachusetts, some towns have banned retail locations and others have established caps on the number of facilities. The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection warned that giving municipalities deference will likely result in a concentration of cannabis facilities in a smaller number of towns. Connecticut is looking to avoid such pitfalls if the prohibition on cannabis is lifted. Under the legislation, the five-member Cannabis Commission must establish an equity applicant status for potential owners of cannabis establishments and then design a licensing application process, which will require creating different licensing fees and establishing criteria for large, medium and small cultivation centers. The legislation envisions that the commissioners would be volunteers, but Seagull said the amount of work might be too much for unpaid volunteers. The Judiciary Committee also heard testimony Friday on a number of cannabis related bills, including bills that seek to expunge past marijuana convictions. Both committees heard testimony from members of the public who are opposed to normalizing access to the drug. They also worried about the impact it would have on children under the age of 21. Rep. Holly Cheeseman, R-Niantic, said if the state is going to legalize marijuana then part of me says, by all means offer the opportunity to those who have been affected, but is that the best we can do? Smith-Bolden suggested some of the tax revenue from legal cannabis could be earmarked for things like afterschool programs in communities with few resources to provide those activities. Senate President Martin Looney, D-New Haven, said legalization will help Connecticuts economy. Colorado has issued 40,334 licenses to individuals to work directly in the cannabis industry, Looney said. Cannabis businesses also retain workers and utilize services from a wide variety of collateral sectors, including construction, engineering, security, legal, insurance and real estate. An economic analysis of the legal cannabis industry found that it generated $2.4 billion in overall economic activity in 2015. And this bill contains specific provisions designed to encourage small business development and promote diversity. Legalization is also supported by Gov. Ned Lamont. The governor believes the legalization bill should automatically expunge criminal charges for simple possession charges and ensure a portion of the proceeds are dedicated to correcting historical wrongs and supporting addiction services, Maribel La Luz, Lamonts communications director, said. Special counsel Robert Mueller's probe has been one of the most prolific special investigations in modern U.S. history, resulting in 199 criminal charges and 37 indictments or guilty pleas, including President Donald Trump's campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, and his personal attorney, Michael Cohen. For nearly two years, a team of veteran prosecutors has worked out of a nondescript building in Washington, their comings and goings documented by a growing number of photographers. But it's the thousands of pages of court documents that have revealed the most about the probe. Mueller has exposed a vast, sophisticated effort by Russia to help elect Trump as president by influencing Americans through the most popular social media platforms and by pretending to be U.S. citizens in a brazen disinformation campaign, along with hacking 20,000 Democratic Party emails. The investigation has charged 26 Russians and three Russian companies. Court documents also say high-level aides in the Trump campaign welcomed Russian help and connections with open arms, both in public and in private, and lied about it repeatedly to the American people and the FBI. So far, no American has been charged with directly conspiring with the Russian government in the 2016 campaign. The Mueller probe has cost more than $25 million, but may break even or make a profit after seizing about $27 million of assets from those convicted. The vast majority from Manafort, who once led the successful campaign of the 45th president of the United States. A new survey has revealed the true price of social media with 19 per cent of influencers admitting they charge more than 250 for a single blog post. The UK Blogger Survey, conducted by software specialist Vuelio alongside Canterbury Christ Church University, also revealed that four per cent of the 534 bloggers questioned charged more than 1,000 per post. Shedding light on a world in which the hashtags #spon and #ad have become commonplace, the results show more than a quarter of all blog content is now compensated in some way. Recent months have seen calls for greater regulation across the paid content industry, as the lines between gifting and sponsored content become increasingly blurred. Joanna Arnold, CEO of Vuelio, says: The influencer marketing industry is still in its infancy, so we expect to see further calls for transparency and regulation as it finds its feet. In line with these calls, the Advertising Standards Agency and the Competition and Markets Authority have collaborated to create the Influencers Guide a handbook on the dos and donts of the advertising industry. "Bloggers and content creators have had a bad press recently, says John Adams, author of fatherhood blog, Dad Blog UK. As a dad blogger operating in a market heavily dominated by women, I was interested to see that female bloggers are three times more likely to charge hard cash for writing blog posts compared to men. The survey also revealed that the notoriously crowded lifestyle, fashion and beauty sectors have seen a 14 per cent drop in blog numbers over the last two years. 25 London lifestyle influencers you should follow on Instagram 1 /33 25 London lifestyle influencers you should follow on Instagram Bonnie Rakhit Followers: 37.1K Follow her on:@bonnierakhit Chris Ison Sandra Hagelstam Followers: 89.1K Follow her on:5inchandup www.5inchandup.com Estee Lalonde Followers: 724K Follow her on:@esteelalonde www.esteelalonde.com Jim Chapman Followers: 2.3M Follow him on:@jimchapman www.jimchapman.co.uk Pandora Sykes Followers: 141K Follow her on:@pandorasykes Frances Davison Lily Pebbles Followers: 373K Follow her on:@lilypebbles Lydia Collins Liv Purvis Followers: 140K Follow her on:@livpurvis Joseph Galvin Kelly Eastwood Followers: 82.9K Follow her on:@thelondonchatter Moeez Ali Peony Lim Followers: 82.3K Follow her on:@peonylim www.peonylim.com Carmen Do Followers: 76.4K Follow her on:@x_carms Jen @xJenn3 Mpho Lebajoa Followers: 69.9K Follow her on:@mpholebajoa mpho.co.uk Kavita Donkersley Followers: 63K Follow her on:@shewearsfashion www.shewearsfashion.com Hannah Desai Followers: 56.6K Follow her on:@cocobeautea cocobeautea.blogspot.co.uk Emily Johnston Emily Johnston Followers: 52.7K Follow her on:@fashionfoiegras www.fashionfoiegras.com Poppy Loves Followers: 49.7K Follow her on:@popy_loves_london www.poppyloves.co.uk Sasha Wilkins Followers: 46.8K Follow her on:@libertylndngirl www.libertylondongirl.com Tania Bunic Followers: 46.5K Follow her on:@taniabdarling thelondonthing.co.uk Scarlett Dixon Followers: 25K Follow her on:@scarlettlondon Alexandra Cameron Laura Hyatt Followers: 22.3K Follow her on:@laurajhyatt www.heroineinheels.com Angie Silver Followers: 22K Follow her on:@angiesilverspoon Hattie West Followers: 17.4K Follow her on:@hattiewesttt www.hattiewest.com Alice Tate Followers: 16.3K Follow her on:@alice_tate Adidas Andrea Cheong Followers: 13.6K Follow her on:@fleurandrea Yusuf Eksik Adam Tanous Followers: 10.1K Follow him on:@thedapperchapper Valentina Valdinoci Faiyaz Kolia Followers: 5,718 Follow him on:@fixated_f Melody Tan Despite these findings, influencers affirm the quality and relevancy of their content remains a top priority. Elle Linton, author of health and fitness blog Keep it simpElle says: First and foremost, it's about the brand; are they a good fit for me and my audience demographic, are they a brand I am happy to be affiliated with and do our values align? The news comes as the number of full-time bloggers citing blogging as their main source of income has risen 50 per cent year-on-year. The survey also shed light on the direction bloggers believe the industry will take. Almost a quarter of bloggers surveyed believe blogs will become driven by advertisers needs, with 42 per cent believing their audiences will become more sceptical of bloggers motives as a result. S hocked witnesses have described the moment a teenager was stabbed to death outside a block of flats in west London. Police were called to reports of a fight in Isleworth at about 10.35pm on Friday. The boy, believed to be 17, was found outside a block of flats in Union Lane. Paramedics battled to save him but he was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later. The boy, believed to be aged 17, was pronounced dead at the scene / PA A couple who called the police described finding the victim on the ground after the fight. They looked out of their flat after hearing shouting and said the teenager was being attacked by two people. The husband and wife, neither of whom wished to be named, said one of the attackers had his face covered. The husband, a 33-year-old engineer, said: "It was one guy who was massive with, like, a mask on his face and another small guy. They were kicking him (the victim), but it was dark so it was hard to see exactly what was happening." By the time the couple went downstairs to the scene they said the two attackers had left. Shocked witnesses have described the moment the teenager was attacked / PA His wife, 35, added: "The boy was bleeding from the mouth. The blood was everywhere." Halima Abubaker, a 22-year-old hairdresser, said she saw two males "running for their lives" around the time of the incident. "I just heard loads of people, then there was seven police cars and two vans," she said. Police say the victim was in nearby Syon Park with a group of other people before the incident. Detective Chief Inspector Richard Leonard from the Metropolitan Police said: "A vehicle has pulled up and a group of males have got out. They have chased the victim and attacked him in Union Lane." He appealed for anyone who was in the park or surrounding area at about 10.30pm and who has information that could help to get in contact with the force. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, described the incident as an "appalling, senseless act of violence". He added on Twitter: "The family and friends of this young man are in my thoughts at this awful time." There have been no arrests, police said. The victim's next of kin have been informed but he has not yet been formally identified. Scotland Yard has launched a murder investigation and is asking anyone with information to contact officers on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. O ne of Britain's most wanted fugitives has been arrested in Romania. Shane O'Brien, 31, is suspected of the murder of 21-year-old Josh Hanson, who was stabbed to death in a bar in Hillingdon, west London, in 2015. He fled in the wake of his death and was put on Interpol's worldwide most wanted list with a 50,000 reward offered for information leading to his arrest and prosecution. Scotland Yard said O'Brien was detained by authorities in Romania on Saturday after the force issued a European arrest warrant. Josh Hanson, 21, was knifed to death Extradition proceedings will begin to bring him back to the UK. T he mother of university student Libby Squire has paid a moving tribute to her daughter in an open letter after her body was found following a seven-week search. Lisa Squire has shared her familys heartbreak after losing their darling daughter. The 21-year-old students body was found in the Humber Estuary on Wednesday afternoon and police have confirmed they are treating her death as a "potential homicide". Libby had been missing since the early hours of Friday February 1 following an night out in Hull and her disappearance sparked an intensive search. In an emotional tribute, her Ms Squire affectionately referred to her daughter as "Pie", and said she had lost "one of the 4 most precious things in my life". A family photo of Libby Squire / PA Writing on Facebook she said: "I cannot thank you enough my darling Pie for making me a mummy. For choosing me to be your mummy. It's an honour, a privilege and a joy. "I kept you safe for as long as I could and I am so sorry I could not keep you safe on that night. I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry. "I love you my beautiful girl with all my being and I always will." Mrs Squire said her "heart is broken" for her daughter's friends, and told of the grief of her other children, her husband, and the rest of the family. She wrote: "No sisters should have that special girl they have known for all their time on this earth taken from her. "No 11 year old brother should have his idol taken from him. "No dad should have his first born little girl, his princess, taken from him." Mrs Squire said her lowest point was having to inform her daughter's boyfriend of her death. "He made her happy. She made him happy. That made me happy," she wrote. In a statement issued on Friday, Detective Superintendent Martin Smalley, of Humberside Police, said: "In regards to our investigation, while we have considered throughout the missing person inquiry that Libby may have come to some harm, Libby's death and the recovery of her body now leads us to solely investigate as a potential homicide." Mr Smalley added: "Libby captured the hearts of not just the people in Hull, but across the country, and as I have said before, the support shown has been overwhelming and my sincerest thanks to absolutely everyone who has been involved." Miss Squire, who has been described as a popular student who studied philosophy at Hull University, vanished after going out with friends on January 31. Libby on Christmas Day in 2018 which she spent with her parents and siblings. / Humberside Police She was dropped off in a taxi near her home on Wellesley Avenue at 11.29pm, and was seen on a bench near Beverley Road around 10 minutes later. She is believed to have remained in this area until around 12.09am the following day, February 1, but was not seen alive after that. Her disappearance prompted a huge search effort, involving more than a hundred officers and a team of volunteers. After her death was confirmed, a wave of tributes poured in for Miss Squire, originally from High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, with a bench on Beverley Road becoming a focus for people to lay flowers at the spot just a few hundreds metres from her student home. An inquest into the death will open at Hull Coroner's Court at 1pm on Monday. During the investigation into the disappearance, 24-year-old Pawel Relowicz, of Raglan Street, Hull, was arrested on suspicion of abduction. A gangs co-ordinator whose brother was hunted and stabbed to death in north London today called for communities to "take responsibility" for the capital's knife crime "disease" after one of his killers was jailed for life. Mark Barton made the plea after Jack Stevens, 19, was sentenced to life with a minimum 23 years after he was found guilty of murdering new father Nashon Esbrand in Islington in August 2017. Stevens was the ringleader of a gang which was captured on CCTV chasing Mr Esbrand, 27, on bicycles. Mr Esbrand was eventually cornered just yards from his parents' house when another teen stabbed him to death with a machete-style blade. Stevens fled the country after the murder but was extradited from Spain last summer and brought to justice at the Old Bailey. Three of his accomplices have already been jailed over the murder. Nashon Esbrand was stabbed to death in August 2017 Gangs co-ordinator Mr Barton told the Standard after the sentencing: "Its pure relief. It took a year to find him and nearly a year to convict. Its satisfying as he was the ringleader. He showed no remorse at all. "There was a lot of family in court. This brought the sadness back again. But we will keep fighting for Nashon by doing something positive. We are going to do a happy Nash day community event every August 25, the day of his death." Jack Stevens was convicted of Nashon Esbrand's murder after he was extradited from Spain / Met Police But Mr Barton added: "Its still raw. I wish I was there to protect him. "And there have been so many murders and stabbings since that day. Nashon Esbrand was stabbed to death yards from his parents' house in Islington / family of Nashon Esbrand These people have no appreciation for life, and no appreciation for themselves. Its a disease in our communities that needs to be sorted. Its not just on the police: communities need to get together and take responsibility. I will continue to support young people. I dont want to see families go through what we went through with Nashon." Four people have now been convicted for Mr Esbrand's murder / family of Nashon Esbrand On August 24, 2017, Mr Esbrand and his girlfriend were walking down Essex Road with their baby, Milla, who was born nine days before. Minutes after they parted company, Mr Esbrand was spotted by Stevens and Dillon Zambon, then aged 18 and 19. They targeted him because Mr Esbrand had previously spoken to police about another incident. Dillon Zambon was sentenced for Mr Esbrand's murder in June last year / Met Police Stevens and Zambon chased Mr Esbrand back up Essex Road and enlisted the help of three other youths: Jhon Berhane, then aged 17, a 15-year-old boy who cannot be named and another male who has not been indentified. They cornered Mr Esbrand in Mitchison Road before the 15-year-old stabbed him in the legs, causing fatal blood loss. One of the wounds was 17.5cm in depth and he died the following day. It happened in a doorway a few doors down from his parents house. Jhon Berhane was sentenced for Mr Esbrand's murder in June last year / Met Police In June last year, Zambon and Berhane were both sentenced to life, with the 15-year-old given 12 years. All three were convicted of murder. Three to four weeks after the murder, Stevens fled the UK in the boot of a car travelling to Belgium, from which he travelled to Spain. He was extradited to the UK in August last year after the Met obtained a European Arrest Warrant. A jury found Stevens guilty of murder earlier this month and he was sentenced on Friday. A n estimated one million people have marched through central London calling for a Peoples Vote on Brexit with eye-catching banners and placards. The march kicked off at 1pm and saw people from up and down the country as well as MPs attending. There were many creative placards and slogans hanging over crowds as people marched from Park Lane to Parliament Square. Rowena Harkeleder, 82, travelled from Grassington in Yorkshire to be at todays march and is representing 81 friends who could not make it. Demonstrators flood London for anti-Brexit march The march saw an estimated one million attend / Katie Walton She told the Standard: I started two weeks ago and told people Im walking on the march and said, I will march for you. She and friends carried a banner which read: Grannies Against Brexit. Rowena Harkeleder at the march on Saturday (Jacob Jarvis) / Jarvis Jacob Images inspired by famous artworks were also carried, including Edvard Munchs The Scream. One picture showing Theresa May as part of the Matrix was also brought along. A Theresa May-related banner / AFP/Getty Images Demonstrators wore blue and yellow berets and flew large EU flags above the crowd as the march slowly made its way to Parliament Square. A n estimated one million people marched through the streets of central London today to demand the public get a final say on Brexit. Staggering footage showed huge crowds making their way through the capital as demonstrators taking part in the Put it to the People march made their way from Hyde Park Corner towards Parliament. Mariella Frostrup and Richard Bacon, who hosted a rally in Parliament Square, claimed that an initial count of demonstrators showed that the amount of people taking part topped one million. Independent Group MP Chuka Umunna also tweeted that an estimated one million attended the march. Marching bands, music, whistles, cheers and chants of "people's vote" provided a noisy backdrop to the march. Demonstrators wore blue and yellow berets and flew large EU flags above the crowd as they slowly made their way to Parliament Square. Placards carried among the crowd called on the Government to "Revoke Article 50". Others read: "We're marching to demand a People's vote" and: "We love EU". The Union flag, the Scottish saltire and flags of other European nations were also flown above marchers. The size of the crowd saw people spill over into the capital's side streets as demonstrators walked from Hyde Park down to Piccadilly. London People's Vote march: In Pictures 1 /50 London People's Vote march: In Pictures EPA An EU supporter with her face painted REUTERS PA AFP/Getty Images REUTERS EPA A demonstrator carries a dog on his shoulders AP An EU supporter carries a child on his shoulders, calling on the government to give Britons a vote on the final Brexit deal REUTERS PA REUTERS EU supporters dressed in costumes REUTERS EPA Sir Vince Cable in attendance PA A demonstrator holds a holds a poster AP EPA An EU supporter with the EU flag painted on her face, REUTERS Getty Images A demonstrator leads a dog wearing a suit in the EU colors during a Peoples Vote AP An EU supporter takes a selfie with a sticker on his nose REUTERS Demonstrators pull a cart with a doll AP Katie Walton Placards stand against a wall Getty Images Anti-Brexit campaigners before they take part in the People's Vote March PA Katie Walton Getty Images Getty Images A demonstrator and her dog wait for the start of a Peoples Vote anti-Brexit march in London AP REUTERS Demonstrators on their way from London Victoria Jacob Jarvis Independent Group MPs Chuka Umunna and Anna Soubry have a selfie taken with Tracey Ullman PA REUTERS The march took place in central London REUTERS An anti-Brexit banner is unfurled from Westminster PA A demonstrator holds a dog on a leash as people start gathering for a Peoples Vote anti-Brexit march in London AP Anti-Brexit campaigners in Park Lane PA Demonstrators carry posters during a Peoples Vote AP nti-Brexit badges are seen Getty Images Getty Images Sadiq Khan tweeted a video of the countdown launching the march, with the London mayor holding up a banner at the front of demonstrators. He wrote: "And we're off! "Here in London, thousands of people from across our city and country have come together with @peoplesvote-uk to send a clear message: Enough is enough - it's time to give the British public the final say on Brexit." Sarah and Andrew Smith, aged 40 and 54, attended the march on their sixth wedding anniversary. Mr Smith said: Its got to be done. Weve got to get our priorities right. You can see by how many people have families here, this is what matters. David Love, 68, travelled from Devon and said he was marching with his grandchildren. He told the Standard: "I think it's terrific to see so many people here. My problem with Mrs May is she is putting party before country." "We're voting for the reality of staying in versus the fantasy of being out," he added. Richard Kaby, dressed in a blue and yellow outfit with a homemade EU hat, said: "It's such a serious thing. "I just feel buoyed by how many people are here. I feel happy that something is being done. I hope it's not too late. Judith Joy, 77, added: "All our grandchildren are going to have to pay for this." Anti-Brexit campaigners take to the streets of London on Saturday / REUTERS In Parliament Square, Labour's deputy leader Tom Watson told the crowds: "We are one million strong. But there's only one reason I'm here today... my 10-year-old daughter. And she has told me to thank you for campaigning for her future. Thank you." He added: "This deal please no one - if you voted remain it's a rubbish deal if you voted leave it's a lousy deal. There are no winners, only losers." Mr Watson said he would help get Theresa May's deal over the line, but only if it is put to a people's vote. Tom Watson speaks at Saturday's rally in Parliament Square / AFP/Getty Images "I will help you get it over the line to prevent a disastrous no-deal Brexit. "But I can only vote for a deal if you let the people vote on it too." Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine and London mayor Sadiq Khan were also expected to take to the stage, as were ex-attorney general Dominic Grieve, former Tory turned independent MP Anna Soubry, Green Party MP Caroline Lucas and SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford. Campaigners arrived in the capital from across the country, with one taking on a 715-mile journey on ferries, trains and buses from Orkney in Scotland. Student Sorcha Kirker, 27, was joined by about 30 other students from the University of the Highlands and Islands. Independent Group MPs Chuka Umunna and Anna Soubry have a selfie taken with Tracey Ullman / PA The London march coincides with pro-Brexit campaigners continuing their long hike from the North East to the capital. Former Ukip leader Nigel Farage re-joined the March to Leave when it set off from Linby, near Nottingham, on Saturday morning. Saturday's demonstrations followed EU leaders agreeing to delay Brexit to give Prime Minister Theresa May a final chance to get her deal through Parliament. Leaders agreed to extend Brexit to May 22 if Mrs May can get MPs to back her deal in the Commons at the third time of asking. But if she fails the UK will have to set out an alternative way forward by April 12, which could mean a much longer delay and require the country to hold elections to the European Parliament, or result in leaving without a deal at all. An online petition demanding the Government stops the Brexit process had topped four million signatures by Saturday morning. H undreds of thousands of people are expected to march on Parliament today to demand another public vote on Brexit. Demonstrators will flood into the capital from across the country for the Put It To The People march in Parliament Square from midday on Saturday. The number of marchers calling for a second referendum could soar towards one million after 700,000 hit the streets at a similar rally in October. Campaigners will march from Park Lane to Parliament Square, followed by a rally in front of Parliament. There, Labour's deputy leader Tom Watson will tell crowds that he has reluctantly come to the view that the only way to resolve the current impasse is "for people themselves to sign it off". Mr Watson will tell the crowds in Westminster: "The current impasse is not working for people who voted to leave or people who voted to stay. I really don't think Parliament will be able to resolve this. "That's why I've come to the reluctant view that the only way to resolve this and have legitimacy in the eyes of the public is for the people themselves to sign it off. "It can only bring closure if we're all involved in making the decision." Donald Tusk: EU is 'prepared for the worst' on Brexit Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine and London mayor Sadiq Khan will also address the protest. Other keynote speakers include former Conservative cabinet minister Justine Greening and former attorney general Dominic Grieve, former Tory turned independent MP Anna Soubry, Lib Dem deputy leader Jo Swinson, Green Party MP Caroline Lucas and SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford. Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker, TV cook Delia Smith and writer and director Armando Iannucci are among those urging people to take part. Theresa May has twice failed to get her Brexit deal through Parliament / AFP/Getty Images Campaigners will pour into London from across the country, with one embarking on a 715-mile journey on ferries, trains and buses from Orkney in Scotland. Student Sorcha Kirker, 27, is the vice president for higher education of the Highlands and Islands Students' Association, and studies archaeology at Orkney College UHI. She said she will be joined by about 30 other students from the University of the Highlands and Islands. She added: "Personally I think it's really unfair because predominantly students and young people don't want Brexit, and many were not old enough to vote in 2016, yet we are the ones whose futures it will affect for the longest." The march comes on the same day pro-Brexit campaigners will continue their long hike from the North East to London, with former Ukip leader Nigel Farage re-joining the March to Leave when it sets off from Linby, near Nottingham, on Saturday morning. The day of Remain and Leave demonstrations come at the end of a week when EU leaders agreed to delay Brexit to give Theresa May a final chance to get her deal through Parliament. Under the plan set out at the EU summit, leaders agreed to extend Brexit to May 22 if the PM can finally get MPs to back her deal in a third meaningful vote in the House of Commons. But if she fails the UK will have to set out an alternative way forward by April 12, which could mean a much longer delay and require the country to hold elections to the European Parliament, or result in leaving without a deal at all. A petition calling on the Government to halt the Brexit process passed four million signatures on Saturday morning. T he family of Mark Duggan are to sue the Metropolitan Police over the father-of-sixs death. Mr Duggans death sparked riots and civil unrest in London and across cities in England in August 2011. The 29-year-old Londoner was shot dead in Tottenham by police who believed he was carrying a gun and posed a threat. No firearm was found on Mr Duggan after he had been shot by an officer - known only as V53 - and his death sparked riots in London, Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester and other English cities for nearly a week. A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said the force had received a civil claim from the Duggan family but would not comment further. Mother Pam Duggan (centre) and aunt Carole Duggan (right) arriving at the Royal Courts of Justice in London in 2017 / Nick Ansell/PA Armed officers intercepted the minicab Mr Duggan was travelling in on the basis of intelligence that he was part of a gang and had collected a gun. He was shot twice by V53 on August 4 2011. One of the hits was fatal. An inquest jury concluded Mr Duggan, who jumped from the taxi, had dropped the firearm on to grass as soon as the car came to a stop - but the officer "honestly believed" Mr Duggan still had a gun at the time he was shot. His family, led by Mr Duggan's mother, Pamela, were outraged at the 2014 inquest verdict that he was "lawfully killed". But they lost a legal challenge in March 2017 when Court of Appeal judges ruled the 8-2 majority verdict was lawful. The armed officers involved in the shooting were cleared of any wrongdoing by the police watchdog in 2015 following a three-and-a-half year investigation. A n estimated one million people descended on central London on Saturday brandishing colourful placards and marching in their thousands in support of a People's Vote. Protesters donned Brexit badges, blue and yellow outfits and flew EU flags as they gathered on Park Lane on Saturday. Staggering footage showed massive crowds of demonstrators making their way from Hyde Park Corner towards Parliament around lunchtime. The "Put It To The People March" takes place today on what was supposed to be six days before the UK was due to leave the EU, before an extension to the departure date was given. Demonstrators flood London for anti-Brexit march The size of the crowd saw people spill over into the capital's side streets and some underground trains were not stopping at Green Park station, as the crowd of demonstrators stretched from Hyde Park down to Piccadilly. Protesters waved flags and banners on the march through London / Getty Images Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable, Green MP Caroline Lucas and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan all joined the march. Sir Vince Cable and Caroline Lucas were seen at the march / PA Mariella Frostrup and Richard Bacon, who hosted a rally in Parliament Square, claimed that an initial count of demonstrators shows that the amount of people taking part topped one million. Independent Group MP Chuka Umunna also tweeted that an estimated one million had attended the march. This dog joined the massive protest bearing a sign / REUTERS Dogs were also seen supporting the cause, sporting an array of pro-EU jumpers. In Parliament Square, Labour's deputy leader Tom Watson was expected to tell marchers the only way to resolve the Brexit impasse is "for people themselves to sign it off". A group of pensioners marched under the banner "Grannies against Brexit" (Jacob Jarvis) / Jarvis Jacob Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine and London mayor Sadiq Khan were also expected to take the stage. F ormer UKIP leader Nigel Farage has hit out at the London Peoples March, claiming we are the majority at a pro-Brexit rally. Mr Farage was speaking as he arrived at the start of the latest stage of the March to Leave, which began a week ago in Sunderland and is aiming to end up in London on the original Brexit day of March 29. He made the comments ahead of Saturdays demonstration in the capital, calling for there to be a Peoples Vote on Brexit. The march, due to start at 1pm, is expected to be attended by hundreds of thousands. Mr Farage arrived on Saturday morning to be greeted with cheers by around 200 marchers, who had gathered in car park of the Horse and Groom pub in the village of Linby, in Nottinghamshire. Nigel Farage / Getty Images Asked about the March to Leave supporters being outnumbered on Saturday by the Peoples Vote March in London, he pointed to the cheering marchers gathered in a pub car park and said: "There are 17.4 million here, can't you see them?" He later told crowds: "Whatever battles we face and have to fight, be confident because we are united. They are in the minority, we are in the majority." Former UKIP leader Nigel Farage addresses marchers from the top of a bus / Getty Images He also said: "What has happened this week is not only a national humiliation but it is an outright betrayal because Mrs May now tells us we're not leaving next Friday despite telling us over a hundred times that we would be, despite putting a piece of law in place supported by 500 MPs. "So there is something going on here that I believe to be one of the saddest chapters in the history of our nation and we will not take this lying down." PA Mr Farage took to the top of a double-decker open-top bus to address the crowds before leading them off on their trek to Beeston, also in Nottinghamshire. He told the marchers: "What a week it's been. I was hoping to spend more time with you on the march this week but I've been in Brussels watching a British Prime Minister reducing our nation in the eyes of the world to the state of humiliation. "Worse than that, the gap that's now opened up between the people and the politicians is such that, despite everything we were told in the referendum, everything we were told in general election manifestos, every promise that was made when 498 MPs voted for article 50 which said we leave on March 29 with or without a deal, the Prime Minister signalled that we will not be leaving this Friday. "And that means this March to Leave could not be better timed." Getty Images Mr Farage was cheered as he said: "Our message is very clear. If they think they can walk all over us, we're going to march back and tell them, no you can't, we will not give in, we will not roll over, we will fight and we know that we will get Brexit whether it's this Friday or at a later date. "Whatever battles we face and have to fight, be confident because we are united. They are in the minority, we are in the majority. "We are going to win this great historic battle and we will become again a self governing, independent, normal country not run by (Jean-Claude) Junker and the gang in Brussels." A n online petition calling on the Government to revoke Article 50 and cancel Brexit has become the most popular petition to be submitted to the Parliament website. It has attracted an influx of signatories in recent days, reaching 4.2 million signatures on Saturday afternoon. Backed by dozens of high profile celebrities, it gained support in the wake of Theresa May's speech on Wednesday night, even crashing the Parliament website several times, and Revoke Article 50 began trending on Twitter. The most popular was previously a 2016 petition calling for a second EU referendum should the winning vote and turnout not reach a certain threshold. The petition calling for Article 50 to be revoked has gathered momentum since Theresa May's speech earlier this week / AFP/Getty Images By contrast, the most popular pro-Brexit petition on the Parliament website, which calls on the Government to "leave the EU without a deal in March 2019", has received almost 455,000 signatories. However, the Prime Minister has ruled out halting the Brexit process, saying: I do not believe that we should be revoking Article 50. Donald Tusk: EU is 'prepared for the worst' on Brexit She told reporters in Brussels on Thursday: If you look back to what happened in the referendum, we saw the biggest democratic exercise in our history. And there was a clear result that we should leave the European Union. We said heres the vote, what is your decision, and we will deliver on it. And I believe its our duty as a Government and as a Parliament to deliver on that vote. When asked for Theresa May's view on the petition, a No 10 spokeswoman said failing to deliver Brexit would cause "potentially irreparable damage to public trust". She said: "The Prime Minister has long been clear that failing to deliver on the referendum result would be a failure of our democracy and something she couldn't countenance." In her Downing Street statement, Mrs May blamed MPs for failing to implement the result of the 2016 EU referendum and told frustrated voters: "I am on your side." Celebrities and MPs have tweeted their support for Parliament to revoke the Treaty of Lisbon clause that deals with leaving the EU. Famous figures including actors Hugh Grant and Jennifer Saunders, TV presenter and author Caitlin Moran, physicist Brian Cox and former Labour press chief Alastair Campbell all urged their followers on social media to sign the petition. W orshippers have returned to Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch for the first time since dozens of people were killed in a deadly terror attack. Hundreds of people visited the mosque to lay flowers and tributes, or pray, after police removed a cordon. It is the first time people have been allowed back into the mosque to visit since 50 people were gunned down while at Friday prayers. Crews had replaced windows that worshippers smashed in a desperate attempt to escape when the attack during Friday prayers. Bullet holes were plastered over and painted. Getty Images Shagat Khan, the president of the Muslim Association of Canterbury, said they had not planned to open the mosque so soon but when they saw the crowds gathering after the police cordon was removed, they decided to allow people to enter in managed groups "so the mosque will be alive again". "Those who lost their families are of course quite emotional," he said. "And those who were present here during the incident, of course the memories come back. The flashbacks." People gather outside Al Noor mosque after it was officially reopened following last week's attack / Getty Images A total of 50 people were killed at two mosques in Christchurch on March 15, in the country's worst terrorist attack. 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 Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, has been charged with murder and is scheduled to make his next court appearance on April 5. Abdullahi Ibrahim Diriye, the uncle of the youngest victim of the shooting, three-year-old Mucaad Ibrahim, visited the mosque with the boy's father. Mr Diriye said: "Always he was a happy boy, and he liked every person he met, not only Muslims. AFP/Getty Images Prince Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, who travelled to New Zealand to pay his respects, hugged a man at the entrance of the mosque and told him to "be patient". He said: He was crying deeply from his heart for a loved one he had lost. P rince Charles and Camilla touched down in the Caribbeans Spice Island Grenada today for the final leg of their Royal tour. Dame Cecile La Grenade, the countrys Governor General, greeted The Prince of Wales with a smile as he met her at the foot of the steps after their RAF State Voyager jet landed in the capital St. Georges. The royal couple were there to cement established relations with the tiny Commonwealth Realm on the last leg of their 12-day tour of the Eastern Caribbean. Dame La Grenade is the Queens representative on the island and will join the couple during their day-long tour. Grenada Governor-General Cecile La Grenade welcomed Charles and Camilla to the country / Getty Images, Charles and Camilla have already visited St Lucia, Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis and St Vincent and the Grenadines during a packed tour on behalf of the British Government. In this post-Brexit era such visits are viewed by the Foreign Office as crucial for the country and aimed at strengthening ties with the Commonwealth nations. First stop was the official welcome ceremony with Grenadas premier Keith Mitchell at the countrys parliament building. The Prince of Wales met Victoria Cross recipient Lance Sergeant Johnson Beharry, an Iraq war veteran, during the visit. The war hero praised The Prince of Wales and his sons Princes William and Harry for the way they are embracing the Commonwealth. Lance Sergeant Johnson Beharry met Prince Charles on the royal's visit to Grenada / REUTERS Lance Sgt Beharry was awarded Britain's highest military honour for twice saving colleagues while under fire during the Iraq war. He said Charles passion for the association of 53 nations was helping to revive the Commonwealth which he claimed many had forgotten. Asked about meeting the Prince, Lance Sgt Beharry said: As you say his name I keep getting goosebumps I never thought in history I would be in Grenada with his royal highness at the same time. The Victoria Cross recipient, of the 1st Battalion, Princess of Waless Royal Regiment, known as the Tigers, spoke of the importance of Harrys 2016 trip to Grenada and now his Charless visit too. Johnson, still serving, added: First we have Prince Harry and now with have His Royal Highness Prince Charles, I cannot really put it together in words how important it is to have the royal family visiting Grenada. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrive in Grenada to attend an official welcome ceremony / Getty Images, With whats going on with Brexit and everything else, to build a relationship with the Commonwealth, to show that there is a Commonwealth and to see the royal familys actually embracing the Commonwealth more or less recreating back the Foreign and Commonwealth. Because for years there was the word Commonwealth and no one knew, even myself, what it meant because there was no relationship and I know the reason why. Now is very important to raise the profile of the Commonwealth and bring the whole of the Commonwealth back together and the UK is showingsupport to the Commonwealth. The Johnson Beharry Victoria Cross Foundation was established by Johnson Beharry VC who received the Victoria Cross - the highest military decoration - for twice saving members of his unit whilst serving in Iraq. His foundation supports our Southwark Through the Gates Project. Established in December 2016, itsupports young men with gang affiliations with a connection to Southwark upon leaving prison to help prevent them drifting back into old lifestyles. The couple watched dancers perform as they did a walkabout of St George's / REUTERS The couple were then shown about the artistry of making chocolate at the House of Chocolate - a thriving new business on the island and meet its manager and other chocolatiers. The Prince and Duchess of Cornwall were greeted by 'chocolate educator,' Magdalena Field. While Charles nodded as they heard the story of how the chocolate is made, Camilla's eyes drifted over to the dozens of bars of chocolate on display and she chose a selection to purchase. Charles had to gently tap his wife on the shoulder to encourage her to move on from browsing to see the next showcase of desserts and carefully crafted truffles. Charles joked: "They are all very good for you, I'm sure! Did you make all these yourselves, even the chocolate gold?" Prince Charles and Camilla visit House of Chocolate with Governor General Cecile La Grenade / REUTERS The couple were then given some cocoa tea to try, but seemed surprised at the bitter taste. Camilla wasn't too keen, but Charles seemed to be a big fan and asked to finish hers as well, which he promptly did. They were then given a whole selection of chocolate samples to try, which they greatly enjoyed. Flavours included charcoal roasted beans, dark with bee pollen, sea salt, nutmeg and spices. Camilla was particularly taken with the bee pollen variety, while Charles was very keen on the spice- filled kind with milk chocolate, claiming the pairing was a particular favourite, according to staff there. The couple also met local cocoa bean farmers. Charles seemed impressed and asked: "You grow all these?" He enquired what time of year was best for growing. The couple were presented with a special chocolate picture book they were told was "for your grandchildren so they can follow" and a colossal hamper full of goodies. The couple met "chocolate educator" Magdalena Field / PA Charles eyed up the chocolate liqueur, joking: "I might have to try some of that on the way back!" The couple were given another huge bag of chocolate to take home for the Queen. The Prince of Wales then attended a blue economy roundtable something which is close to his heart. Countries & Areas Search for country or area A Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan B Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burma Burundi C Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Costa Rica Cote dIvoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia D Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic E Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia F Fiji Finland France G Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana H Haiti Holy See Honduras Hungary I Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy J Jamaica Japan Jordan K Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan L Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg M Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique N Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Korea North Macedonia Norway O Oman P Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territories Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Q Qatar R Republic of the Congo Romania Russia Rwanda S Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syria T Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu U Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom Uruguay Uzbekistan V Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Y Yemen Z Zambia Zimbabwe The North Atlantic Treaty Organization may be headed south, all the way down to Brazil. The President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro, who in order to demonstrate his independent stance in the world decided to stop by CIA headquarters in Washington D.C. before having a chat with President Trump. This is very reminiscent of Ukraines Petro Poroshenko making sure US forces march on their independence day parade or when he has to meet visiting US counterparts on their boat of the coast of his country. Since the CIA is in many ways the king maker of Latin America this seems like an unwise PR choice unless he is very certain that foreign support is vastly more important than seeming to be an independent nationalist Brazilian figure like he claims to be. And speaking of Brazils independence, to the surprise of nearly everyone in the media, punditry and analysis sphere Trump said rather plainly that he is seriously looking at NATO membership or some other formal alliance with Brazil. This could obviously just be Trumps loose lips and desire to be liked by the person sitting next to him and the latter of the two options could mean pretty much anything. Formal alliance is vague at best. The former of the two options, Brazil joining NATO, is much more tangible and thus is a far important undertaking if it were to occur. So what would happen if Brazil joined NATO? From an ideological/philosophical standpoint Brazil joining the security organization would fundamentally shift its purpose and meaning. NATO was formed at the moment the afterglow from an Allied victory in World War II started to fade as a means of ganging up against a Soviet nation that was so destroyed by the war it was still scrambling to get people fed and into living space after most of European Russia was annihilated by the Nazis. Turn the clock some decades forward and a Non-Communist Russia was never allowed into NATO and never will be. NATO is an anti-Russian alliance. Whether this is good or bad is up to the reader but the fact is that it was born for this purpose and continues to exist primarily for this purpose today. NATOs largest military exercises since the end of the Cold War had Russia as the bad guys not random gents in the Arab world. NATO is also the allied armed force of what Russians call the Golden Billion. This implies the roughly one billion people who live in the US/Canada + EU, essentially the wealthy West. If we look at a map of Europe, besides the useful-during-the-Cold-War Turks who technically have territory in Europe, this becomes very clear. NATO is the army of The West. So how would Brazilian membership change these two dynamics? Brazil and Latin America cannot gain anything from NATO in terms of joining up to fight against the Russians because the Russians at present and for the foreseeable future are unable to take back even a marginal percentage of the massive territory that they lost when they choked in the Cold War. Russia is also so vastly far away that preparing for some sort of traditional invasions by Russians in Brazil is insane to say the least. Also, what exactly can Brazil do to help stop a Russian invasion of their former territories from the other side of the world, with no bases in Europe and no means to fight an inter-continental conflict? Can Brazil contribute to fighting Russia? No. If Brazil and Latin America begin to join NATO this means that the focus will no longer be as an anti-Russian organization, but as something with a much more broader focus. Ironically, if NATO had made a major change of focus in the 90s, Russia would have voluntarily joined it long ago during that upbeat naive and submissive time period. Additionally, opening the security organization up beyond the borders of the Golden Billion, if done so honestly, certainly shatters the present image of the force as a method of colonization of the Global South that the SJWs complain about on their misspelled posters. This could put Latin America at the table as equals with Spain, Portugal, France etc. This is a radically different dynamic to say the least. In conclusion, it needs to be stated that this could also be a move to create Trumps supposed plan for a Fortress America by shifting US influence towards Latin America. If there is any truth to this plan, then shifting NATO south makes perfect sense. From a business standpoint if Trump is really going to force NATO member countries to play for upkeep +50% for US bases on their territory, then this could just be expansion of Trumps business into new markets. If NATO does decide to go south then it will never be able to go back. The organization will fundamentally be changed because Latin America cannot be directly attacked by Russia and no one there remotely cares about it and furthermore the organization made specifically to defend the West, would no longer be exclusively Western anymore. In early 2019 Belarus delivered four operational MiG-29 fighters to Serbia. These aircraft had actually become Serbian a year earlier but Belarus had agreed to do some repairs and upgrades to make the aircraft usable. The Serbian air force now has 14 MiG-29s, three MiG-21s and 22 J-22 ground attack aircraft. The J-22 was designed and built in Yugoslavia, which dissolved in the early 1990s. Only about a third of the Serb J-22s are operational because no one is offering upgrades or overhauls. MiG-29s have lots of upgrade and refurbishment options, not all of them favorable. Buyers must study the many terms and conditions in the purchase or transfer agreement. The Belarus MiG-29s are not as up-to-date as the six received from Russia earlier but Belarus had done the upgrades at about a third of what Russia demanded from Serbia. Belarus and Serbia both learned to be wary of free military aircraft from Russia, especially when the gifts came with the stipulation that Russia would provide spare parts and upgrade services at whatever price Russia set. While Russia is still manufacturing and exporting MiG-29s Belarus has retired all its MiG-29s and is selling or giving them away. The four free Belarus MiG-29s going to Serbia were subject to the similar upgrade costs and terms as the six free MiG-29s Serbia already received from Russia but with the understanding that Belarus would provide the repair and upgrade services at reasonable prices. This issue has caused a lot of bad feelings (towards Russia) in Serbia but it was the best deal cash-poor Serbia could obtain in the years before Belarus came along with a better offer. In short, if you get a free MiG-29 from Russia you can only get upgrades, at inflated prices, from Russian firms. Thats the kind of support military aircraft operators try to avoid. The extent of this mess became visible in October 2017 when, after a year of negotiations over terms, Russia began delivering free military equipment to Serbia. The most visible items were the six MiG-29 fighters that were supposed to arrive in March 2017 but delays were experienced. At first, there was no explanation for the delays but it was believed to be all about the terms of the gift (which included 60 armored vehicles and various other items). This deal was meant to save Serbia a lot of money but the Russians wanted the Serbs to pay for upgrades to bring these MiG-29s up to the latest standards. The actual costs for this was not announced but it was later revealed that Russia was financing the upgrade deal and the initial price was over $40 million per aircraft. That was more than Serbia was willing to pay or could afford and the first two MiG-29s did not arrive until 2018. Eventually, Serbia negotiated reductions in the extent and cost of the repairs and upgrades but they were still believed to be over $30 million per aircraft. If this all sounds rather murky and mysterious, that is normal for the Balkans and especially for the many dealings Serbia and Russia have endured since the 19th century. Both countries remain aware that this relationship played a key role in triggering World War I in 1914 and ever since Russian aid and protection has always cost more than Serbia expected. This MiG-29 saga also goes way back. Serbia got its first MiG-29s (four of them) in the early 1990s when Yugoslavia came apart as a side effect of the collapse of communist rule in East Europe and Russia. At the time Russia told Serbia that it would provide more free or cheap MiG-29s but never did. There were always money (Russia was broke) or political (the West objected to sending more weapons to an unstable area) reasons for Russia not sending Serbia the promised military aid. But in 2016 Russia was making a big deal about keeping an old promise. Thats how Russia diplomacy works in the Balkans. This deal was not a sudden decision. In late 2014 the Russian president sent some essential supplies to Serbia, as a personal gift, to put some of Serbias MiG-21 and MiG-29 aircraft back in service. The essential supplies consisted of special batteries the MiGs required to operate. Why did the Serbs lack batteries? Therein lies an interesting tale. Serbian Air Force officials knew in 2013 that they had to obtain additional batteries and asked the Defense Ministry to order them. This was done, but not before someone in the Defense Ministry noted that India offered the same batteries (manufactured for their own MiGs and for export) at a third of what the Russians (the usual supplier) charged. So Serbia ordered from India. Russia found out and demanded that Serbia cancel that order or else Russia would withhold MiG parts and maintenance services only Russia could provide. Serbia protested but was reminded that in 1999 Russia was the only major power that had backed them when they sought, in vain, to prevent their Kosovo province from becoming an independent state (something NATO supported). The Serbs felt they owned their big brother something and gave in. However, the Serbs pointed out that money was short and it would be a while before they could scrape together the funds to pay for the pricey Russian batteries. While all this was going on the Serb air force ran out of batteries. Thus by mid-2014, the Serbian air force revealed that none of its combat aircraft (26 MiG-21s, four MiG-29s and 18 J-22s) were available for duty because the Defense Ministry was having problems finding enough cash to buy batteries and other essential supplies for the aircraft. Serbia never had much of an air force to begin with and the cost of maintenance has been a struggle just to take care of basics. By late 2014 the air force insisted that three MiG-21s and three MiG-29s were available for emergency service but no one had seen any of them flying for months. Some of the older aircraft have been out of action for so long that it would take a major refurbishment to get them back into the air. Most of the non-combat aircraft are also grounded because of maintenance problems also related to procurement costs. At first, it was believed that the battery situation was clearly another example of the Defense Ministry procurement bureaucracy getting in the way. In the past, the procurement bureaucrats had been involved in some situations where the troops complained of a torturous and lengthy process for ordering equipment. There were even cases where the procurement bureaucrats seemed to ignore how delays in obtaining parts or supplies would impact equipment readiness. But in this case, the procurement officials were trying to save some money so that more critical parts or maintenance supplies could also be purchased. Russia, as it has often done to others in the past, gets very disruptive and threatening when anyone seeks to buy MiG parts or services from anyone but Russia. Normally all this procurement politics is classified as state secrets but word of the battery fiasco got out because of the high handed behavior of the Russians. Thus, in that case, there were no calls for an investigation to find and prosecute the spy who made this item public. Russia tried to break the deadlock and portray itself as the good guy by donating some of the needed batteries. But many other batteries must be bought at the usual price, which is three times what the Indians charge. Buy Russian, or else and never forget who your Big Brother is. Mindful of the ill will generated by all this the 2016 MiG-29 deal was accompanied by the donation of 60 used armored vehicles (30 T-72 tanks and 30 BRDM-2 wheeled reconnaissance vehicles). Many Serbs withheld their thanks until Russia actually delivered. Similar situations regularly occur elsewhere in the Balkans. For example in October 2017 Bulgarian pilots refused to fly their MiG-29s because of safety issues. India has had similar problems and in some cases, especially since 1991, some buyers demand, and got, a money back if not satisfied clause in the purchase contract. That clause has been exercised a few times, often in the case of MiG-29s. In early 2018 Russia made another peace offering; providing $2.5 million to pay for MiG-29 flight training. Serbia thanked Russia but has not forgotten. These were not isolated examples of poor Russian support. It even occurs for equipment purchased for the Russian armed forces. Even with the Russian government able to directly threaten managers of Russian firms providing substandard support to Russian customers, there is no quick or easily implemented fix. China has noticed this and has developed a reputation for providing more prompt, affordable and responsive support for equipment similar (or nearly identical to the Russian original) Chinese armored vehicles, aircraft and so on. This has not motivated the Russians to change their ways. China is taking more and more export customers from Russia. Yet China is not totally independent of Russia for some items, like military aircraft engines and a few other military technologies. Year by year China becomes less dependent on Russia and more popular as a supplier than Russia for the same military equipment. Two fire trucks attended the scene after alarms went off about 6pm Saturday evening. "Everyone was evacuated," says a bystander. "Firemen just went in to the Mount Ocean Sports Club. "The fire alarms are going off, and fire crew are still inside. "One fire truck is outside, and the other one is parked further down the road." At the scene? Please phone 0800 SUNLIVE or email newsroom@thesun.co.nz NZ Police have confirmed that there was a vehicle crash on Karewa Parade, Papamoa Beach on Saturday night. This crash occurred at about 11.15pm. According to initial reports, a car collided with a caravan. The driver of the vehicle received an injured leg and was taken to hospital in a stable condition. During war drills as a wee girl, Gwyneth Jones was given a piece of cork to bite down on. The thinking at the time was that it would stop her, and other children, from severing their tongues should Japanese invaders bomb their school. No-one knows that, says Gwyneth, and that really gets up my nose. The author, historian and artist is not easily irritated, but she hears stories coming out of England via movies, TV and books about how they coped and how difficult life was, during the war. If I ever get anyone from England who says how hard it was, I tell them they would be dead if it wasnt for us, she says. Not only did we fight for them, we fed them. No, we werent bombed, and the suffering cant be compared. But we made huge sacrifices, she adds. Men, resources and food. We were rationed so they could eat, and rationing didnt finish til 1952, long after the war. Hers is not an attack on the allied cause - its more about what she believes to be a void in the awareness of New Zealands history. Thats why shes written a book - another book - baked with historical fact and iced with romance. This Same Flower is named after a line from a Robert Herrick poem. And this same flower that smiles today, tomorrow will be dying. Shes drawn on her own childhood for this war-time tale, set against the backdrop of Glen Afton, a coal mining village west of Huntly, during the war. The miners were heroes, she explains. They were very, very brave. They worked 24/7, often back shifting, to keep this country running because it was a coal-fired country. Had the enemy thrust into Raglan, as it was believed they would, the Waikato mines would have been a natural target. They would have been wiped out and the country would have been crippled. It was such information that was thrown up while she was researching her book At the Coalface, a history of Huntlys coal mines and townships. If the well-read author didnt know these things, then others wouldnt either. And they should, says Gwyneth. They converted the old Glen Massey pottery into an air force base, and theres hardly anyone who knows there was an American Air Force base at Glen Massey during the war. Her book puts that right, as it does with many other intriguing historical insights. I drew a lot on my childhood, but its exaggerated, says the author. But not the fact that her father failed his Air Force medical and was man-powered into the pottery at Glen Afton to make toilet bowls and hand basins for a military camp. Well, Dad was an alcoholic, she says, and he did go off on benders. Had he known his excessiveness, his intemperance, would be a thread of a novel one day - one written by his daughter - he may have mended his ways. But its against this backdrop of mines, war and threats of invasion that Gwyneth Jones spins the story of Megan Morgan, or Meggie. That was my wartime childhood, she says. It was black curtains and war drills, because we were a vulnerable school near the mines that the Japanese might just bomb. We each had little bags with sticking plasters, scissors, cotton wool to protect our ears from bomb blasts and cork to stop us biting off our tongues. When the bell rang, they leapt into the trenches behind their school. Theyre the facts, but then theres the slow unravelling romance and the companionship Meggie finds with the handsome Simon Griffith. The author re-iterates her point. People dont know these things and they should. We read how terrible it was in England and Australia, but we went through all those things. A little girl called Meggie, an exaggeration of the author herself, helps us understand some of the unknowns of the New Zealand war effort. Tim Quartier, a Cicero-North Syracuse graduate and Ithaca College alum, is a swing in the U.S. tour of Les Miserables which is coming to Syracuse beginning March 26. Quartier will be offering an audition master class to high school students attending schools participating in the Syracuse High School Theatre Awards this year. The master class will be from 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 29. The class will be held at the Redhouse Arts Center in downtown Syracuse. Registrants are asked to arrive by 3:15 p.m. There is no cost to this class. The space is limited to 30 students. From that group, six students will be randomly chosen to sing a 32-bar audition cut and receive feedback from Quartier. An accompanist will be provided and a Q&A session will follow. Interested parties should email Sara Weiler, Syracuse High School Theatre Awards Co-Adjudicator Coordinator, at sararoseweiler@gmail.com. Registration must be in by Tuesday, March 26 at 4 p.m. Quartier is a 2010 Syracuse Area Live Theater Award nominee for the role of Tony in West Side Story, a role he has gone on to play again in regional theaters around the country. Les Miserables is Quartiers National Tour debut. SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- By the time the meeting started, every seat inside the Syracuse church was taken. Over 50 people crowded into the Fountain of Life Church to show support for Syracuse Police Chief Kenton Buckner. The rally was organized by the Syracuse chapter National Action Network a week after a spat between the police union and the new chief became public. Many officers opted not to march with Buckner during the St. Patricks Parade in downtown Syracuse last week. Officers feel disrespected by Buckner, according to union president Jeff Piedmonte, and are angry the chief wont retract a statement calling some officers rotten to the core. Buckner is working to change use-of-force policies and reduce police overtime. He has called the dispute expected turbulence." The National Action Network organized the rally Saturday, calling for the community to support for the embattled chief. Twiggy Billue, NANs president, told the crowd she stands behind Buckner. She also voiced support for Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens, who led the search process to hire a new police chief, and Mayor Ben Walshs administration. Billue told rally attendees she also unequivocally supports the police department. But it is time, she said, to pursue change in the department. Tension comes with change. It doesnt mean that good work isnt being done," she said. It means that some folks have to get used to not doing the same thing over and over again." Residents -- including a few children who tagged along with their parents -- attended the meeting. So did politicians: Billue thanked Syracuse Common Council Helen Hudson, Onondaga County Legislator Monica Williams and others for attending the meeting. Clifford Ryan, of OGs (Our Generation) Against Violence, attended the meeting and streamed the rally live to Facebook. He said he supports Buckner and encouraged officers to do the same. The union of the Syracuse police needs to respect his decisions, Ryan said. Jeff Piedmonte, president of the Syracuse Police Benevolent Association, stood at the back of Fountain of Life Church during the rally. The union leader said he wanted to listen to the speakers. Piedmonte said he also wanted to let residents know that the union has no problem with the Syracuse community. Its not the police union against the community," he said. "Our issues are with Chief Buckner. SYRACUSE, N.y. -- The annual Syracuse for St. Jude gala Saturday night will honor a 10-year-old boy who battled cancer before dying last year. Colin Hayward Toland, of Ithaca, was 2 years old when doctors discovered he had ependymoma, a malignant brain cancer. He went through multiple brain surgeries, treatments, chemotherapy and radiation. He made headlines in 2016 when the Ithaca police made him an honorary officer. Colin died in March 2018. Organizers of the Syracuse St. Jude event have created a Officer Colin Hayward-Toland Award to honor his legacy and spirit of tenacity, resilience and positivity. The award will be given this year to the president of ElderChoice, Aaron Harris, who organizers said has played an instrumental role in the success of the gala in recent years and is a member of the event committee. ElderChoice is a provider of home health care services for Syracuse, Oneida, Cortland and Auburn areas. Joseph and Amy Rossi organize the annual event to raise money for the St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital. The gala was previously known as the Dominic and Patricia Rossi Memorial Dinner and honors Joseph Rossi parents. This is the 13th year of the event, which has raised about $500,000. Patricia Rossi served as the Cicero town clerk from 1993-1998 and Dominic served as a foreman in the Cicero Highway Department from 1975 to 1995. Joseph Rossi has said his parents were proud supporters of St. Jude. Although they had to fight cancer in their 50s, they reminded all of those around them that children also have to face the same battle. At St. Jude families dont receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food. The hospital has treated children from all 50 states and from around the world. The Syracuse for St. Jude Gala starts at 6 p.m. today at the Nicholas J. Pirro Convention Center, 800 S. Salina St., in Syracuse. Proceeds from the dinner go to St. Jude. Information about the event and donations can be made through the event web site. SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Syracuse police chief Kenton Buckner promised to seek a better relationship with his police department during a promotion ceremony for officers Friday morning, addressing a rift between himself and some officers. Theres been much to do these past couple of weeks, the kind of the elephant in the room, with our police department, Buckner said at the ceremony held in Bethany Baptist Church, I can tell you that I always have opportunity for improvement, and one of those is a stronger connection with our police department, which you will see going forward. Buckners comments came during the ceremony for 14 officers who were being promoted. Five sergeants became lieutenants and nine officers became sergeants. After four months on the job, the police chief has taken heat from the police officers union for comments hes made about officers, for efforts to encourage diversity in department leadership despite seniority, and for snubbing officers in an elevator by not saying hello. PBA president Jeff Piedmonte has said he wants Buckner gone, and is hoping the chief doesnt last until the end of the year. Buckners rift with the union and some officers became public when scores of officers refused to march in the St. Patricks Parade. The police chief said he felt the officers protested because of policy changes hes making. Buckner is rewriting use-of-force policies in the wake of several police brutality lawsuits the city has lost and is reining in officer overtime. Department reorganization is planned to start this weekend, Buckner said at the promotion ceremony. After the ceremony on Friday, Piedmonte said restructuring the department has played a role in frustrations. He said he guessed that 30 to 40 officers would retire by the end of the year, some because of changes in hours and shifts. He expects community policing to be hit hardest by those retirements. In the past, Piedmonte said that Buckners personality was the reason for frustrations, not his policies. On Friday, Buckner talked about a Fortune article that named Wegmans the third-best company to work for in the United States and how it related to the Syracuse Police Department. He says Fortune gave at least five characteristics that made Wegmans a good place to work: its high standards, it empowers employees, making a difference, caring and respect. When Buckner arrived at caring, he paused and said "heres a note to self, to Kenton Buckner. At first, Buckner talked about caring for the community. Then he looked toward the officers gathered for the ceremony and talked about his interactions with his own police officers. ... Its important that we, as leadership, understand that people will follow you, people will be inspired, people will do what you want to do because we give an order, he said. But they come to work with a different attitude, different energy when they know that you care, he said. When we talk about self-improvement and subscribing to the teams improvement, we must first do critical self-assessment to look in the mirror to see what can we do to improve some of these things. WASHINGTON (AP) Special counsel Robert Mueller on Friday turned over his long-awaited final report on the contentious Russia investigation that has cast a dark shadow over Donald Trump's presidency, entangled Trump's family and resulted in criminal charges against some of the president's closest associates. The comprehensive report, still confidential, marks the end of Mueller's probe but sets the stage for big public fights to come. The next steps are up to Trump's attorney general, to Congress and, in all likelihood, federal courts. The Justice Department said the report was delivered by a security officer Friday afternoon to the office of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. Word of the delivery triggered reactions across Washington. Shortly afterward, Attorney General William Barr released a letter noting his plans to write his own account of Mueller's findings. The White House released a statement saying it had not seen or been briefed on the document. Next steps are "up to Attorney General (William) Barr," said White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. Barr said he could send his account to Congress quickly. "I am reviewing the report and anticipate that I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsel's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend," Barr said in his letter the top Republicans and Democrats on the House and Senate Judiciary committees. He pledged a commitment to transparency. He said the Justice Department had not denied any requested action by his office. Barr was required to disclose to Congress any instance in which Mueller asked to take an action during his investigation but was told no by the department. With no details released at this point, it's not known whether Mueller's report answers the core questions of his investigation: Did Trump's campaign collude with the Kremlin to sway the 2016 presidential election in favor of the celebrity businessman? Also, did Trump take steps later, including by firing his FBI director, to obstruct the probe? But the delivery of the report does mean the investigation has concluded without any public charges of a criminal conspiracy between the campaign and Russia, or of obstruction by the president. It's unclear what steps Mueller will take if he uncovered what he believes to be criminal wrongdoing by Trump, in light of Justice Department legal opinions that have held that sitting presidents may not be indicted. The mere delivery of a confidential report will set off immediate demands, including in the Democratic-led House, for full release of Mueller's findings. Barr has said he wants to make as much public as possible, and any efforts to withhold details will prompt a tussle between the Justice Department and lawmakers who may subpoena Mueller and his investigators to testify before Congress. Such a move by Democrats would likely be vigorously contested by the Trump administration. The conclusion of Mueller's investigation does not remove legal peril for the president. Trump faces a separate Justice Department investigation in New York into hush money payments during the campaign to two women who say they had sex with him years before the election. He's also been implicated in a potential campaign finance violation by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who says Trump asked him to arrange the transactions. Federal prosecutors, also in New York, have been investigating foreign contributions made to the president's inaugural committee. No matter the findings in Mueller's report, the investigation has already illuminated Russia's assault on the American political system, painted the Trump campaign as eager to exploit the release of hacked Democratic emails and exposed lies by Trump aides aimed at covering up their Russia-related contacts. Over the 21-month investigation, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including six aides and advisers to the president, and three companies. The special counsel brought a sweeping indictment accusing Russian military intelligence officers of hacking Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign and other Democratic groups during the 2016 election. He charged another group of Russians with carrying out a large-scale social media disinformation campaign against the American political process that also sought to help Trump and hurt Clinton. Closer to the president, Mueller secured convictions against a campaign chairman who cheated banks and dodged his taxes, a national security adviser who lied about his Russian contacts and a campaign aide who misled the FBI about his knowledge of stolen emails. Cohen, the president's former lawyer, pleaded guilty in New York to campaign finance violations arising from the hush money payments and in the Mueller probe to lying to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. Another Trump confidant, Roger Stone, is awaiting trial on charges that he lied about his pursuit of Russian-hacked emails ultimately released by WikiLeaks. It's unclear whether any of the aides who have been convicted, all of whom have pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigators, might angle for a pardon. Trump has left open the idea of pardons. Along the way, Trump lawyers and advisers repeatedly evolved their public defenses to deal with the onslaught of allegations from the investigation. Where once Trump and his aides had maintained that there were no connections between the campaign and Russia, by the end of the probe Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani was routinely making the argument that even if the two sides did collude, it wasn't necessarily a crime. The goalpost shifting reflected the administration's challenge in adopting a singular narrative to fend off allegations. Equally central to Mueller's work is his inquiry into whether the president tried to obstruct the investigation. Since the special counsel's appointment in May 2017, Trump has increasingly tried to undermine the probe by calling it a "witch hunt" and repeatedly proclaiming there was "NO COLLUSION" with Russia. But Trump also took certain acts as president that caught Mueller's attention and have been scrutinized for possible obstruction. One week before Mueller's appointment, Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, later saying he was thinking of "this Russia thing" at the time. He mercilessly harangued Attorney General Jeff Sessions for recusing from the Russia investigation two months before Mueller was named special counsel, a move that left the president without a perceived loyalist atop the probe. And he helped draft a misleading statement on Air Force One as a Trump Tower meeting between his eldest son and a Kremlin-connected lawyer was about to become public. The meeting itself became part of Mueller's investigation, entangling Donald Trump Jr. in the probe. Mueller's team also interviewed the president's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, multiple times. Even as Trump blasted Muellers team, his White House and campaign produced thousands of documents for the special counsel, and dozens of his aides were interviewed. The president submitted written answers to Mueller regarding the Russia investigation, but he refused to be interviewed Thoroughbred trainer Todd Pletcher has compiled $372 million in career earnings, more than any other trainer in the history of U.S. horse racing. He trained two Kentucky Derby winners, three Belmont Stakes winners and won more races at Saratoga Race Course than any other trainer 13 times over the past 20 years. None of those achievements mattered last month when Pletcher was shutout in his bid to bring in 50 seasonal workers from South America to feed, groom and exercise horses. The federal government rejected Pletcher's request for 50 H-2B visas, a critical part of the workforce he employs to care for the 100 thoroughbreds he brings to Saratoga Springs every year. The rejection came after the number of applications for H-2B visas far exceeded the federal cap, leaving hundreds of employers without staff to perform jobs that few Americans want. It is a problem that is impacting hotel operators, landscapers and the horse racing industry. For the handful of horse trainers who missed out, it could be a blow to thoroughbred racing. We are deeply concerned about our ability to participate in the upcoming Belmont and Saratoga race meets without the presence of these 50 seasonal workers, Pletcher wrote in a letter to Congressman Paul Tonko and U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand. Read the full story from Albany Business Review More from the Albany Business Review >> Survey: What would you like to see done with Monument Square in Troy? >> Shuffleboard, hot dogs and classic games: Inside Troys Franklin Alley Social Club (Photos) Reports are circling that a number of Nokia 7 Plus handsets in Norway are sending confidential user data to a server overseas. According to a Norwegian public broadcaster NRK, some of the Finnish-made mobile phones sent sensitive information such as user phone numbers, locations, and even device serial numbers. The report stated that the destination of the said data is a server located in China. Nokia And HMD Global Finnish company HMD Global, which provides royalties to Nokia, reportedly built the mobile phones, and is now under fire for the alleged unauthorized sharing of personal data. Upon questioning, HMD said there was indeed a batch of Nokia 7 Plus smartphones that had an "error," although the company already fixed the problem with an update back in February. HMD also stressed that the information sent to the Chinese server contained nothing to identify the owner's identities. However, HMD declined to comment regarding the owner of the said Chinese server. A report identified the server as "vnet.cn," which reportedly belongs to state-owned carrier China Telecom. Meanwhile, Nokia, which has no direct investment with HMD, refused to comment about the issue. Not So Fast While HMD claims that it already fixed the issue, Finland's data protection ombudsman thinks an investigation is needed. According to reports, Ombudsman Reijo Aarnio would investigate whether HMD and Nokia violated some of the restrictions of Europe's GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) policies. Launched in March last year, the Nokia 7 Plus became widely available in Europe and China, among other countries. While Nokia phones in China are expected to contact a Chinese carrier, European models of the handset should not. This controversy is the latest in a series of accusations involving the misuse of consumer data and trade secrets. Earlier this year, the U.S. government filed charges against Chinese manufacturer Huawei over stealing trade secrets and violating trade sanctions. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The Toyota Tundra earned a "poor" grade from an American highway safety regulator, causing the consumer recommendation rating for the pickup truck to drop. In its latest round of crash tests, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Toyota pickup the lowest possible rating out of the 11 mid-size and full-size trucks it reviewed. Safety Of Pickup Trucks To test the highway safety of pickups, the IIHS put four compacts and seven full-sized trucks through a crash test that simulates when a vehicle's front corner hits a stationary object or another car. The relatively new test involved having the vehicles run at 40 mph. Of all the pickup trucks that were tested, Nissan Titan, the Ram 1500 and the Ford F-150 each received a "good" rating, while the Honda Ridgeline had an "acceptable" grade from the IIHS. The GMC Sierra and the Chevy Silverado 1500 were both given "marginal" rating for its passenger protection following the crash tests. Dan Flores, a representative for General Motors (GM) reaffirms the American automaker's commitment to improve the safety of its vehicles. He said GM designs its cars to keep passengers safe from a broad range of collisions such as front, offset, angle, side and rear impacts. Meanwhile, a Toyota spokesperson told CNBC that the company's main priority is the safety and reliability of its cars. "We'll continue to look for ways to improve in an effort to exceed customers' expectations particularly in new testing such as IIHS' passenger-side front small overlap (tests) for pickup trucks," the spokesperson said. The IIHS said that pickup trucks generally have a problem with keeping their passengers safe from front-end collisions. This could be caused by a lack of emphasis on front-seat passenger protection found in older pickup designs. The regulator believes that if these vehicles were to be redesigned, they will likely include better protection for passengers sitting at front. The new IIHS crash test is expected to impact how consumers buy pickup trucks. Consumer Reports Rating The Toyota Tundra's poor performance at the IIHS testings has caused its Consumer Reports (CR) score to drop below the recommendation threshold. On the other hand, the Ford F-150 is the only full-size pickup that received the consumer website's approval. Jennifer Stockburger from CR's Auto Test Center explains the importance of getting high marks in such vehicle tests. "Pickup trucks are becoming increasingly popular for hauling families as well as cargo," Stockburger said. "That means assessments like this one that look at passenger safety as well as driver safety are just as important for pickups as they are for cars and SUVs." CR scores are used to determine whether a vehicle is fit for consumer use. It factors in the results of various crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the IIHS for its overall grading. CR also considers the vehicles' safety systems, their road-test scores, and the results of website's exclusive Auto Surveys, where car owners are asked about how satisfied they are with the car they bought. Vehicles that notch high CR Overall Scores are given a solid recommendation by Consumer Reports. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Queen guitarist Brian May has released a music video that features the first-ever flyby of NASA mission New Horizons of Ultima Thule. The 49-second time-lapse video was created by New Horizons deputy project scientist John Spencer, a researcher at Southwest Research Institute in Boulder. Ethereal Music Video The video shows the bilobate object against a field of stars in the Sagittarius star cloud. The Ultima Thule was shown growing in size until the flyby on New Years' Eve 2018 coming up to New Years' Day 2019, then showing its dark side as the navigator flew beyond. "We explore because we are human and we want to know," reads the spoken lyrics featured in the video. To create the new music and video, May made use of NASA's visual data from the flyby. "To produce this movie, it took 13 years of space travel, about 700 million dollars, and the expertise of hundreds of NASA engineers, navigators, astrophysicists and rocket scientists," May wrote in an Instagram post. Brian May And Space Science May who has a Ph.D. in astrophysics has been involved in several space exploration programs, including NASA's New Horizons probe of Pluto led by mission principal investigator Alan Stern. The veteran rocker and space enthusiast is working with the New Horizon team's stereo image experts. May previously released the "New Horizons" track to celebrate the January flyby. It premiered on NASA TV and the mission's YouTube channels. Ultima Thule The mission made a flyby of a remote Kuiper Belt Object called Ultima Thule, also officially known as the 2014 MU69 that measures roughly 19 miles from end to end. Scientists revealed the object as a contact binary that consists of two connected spheres. The flyby started on New Year's Eve and culminated on Jan. 1. The mission came within 1 percent of its closest approach aim point or roughly 2,174 miles from the Ultima Thule. The New Horizons team dubbed the two lobes of the bilobate object as "Ultima" for the larger sphere and "Thule" for the smaller sphere. It is regarded as the most distant object seen by a spacecraft from Earth. It has a distance of approximately 4 billion miles from the Earth's sun. "Today I'm proud to reveal this very short movie which depicts completely faithfully the whole approach sequence - plus the glimpse the probe captured looking back towards the Sun at the 'crescent' view of the KBO after the encounter," May said. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. What happened in downtown Los Angeles on March 21 seemed like straight out of a sci-fi movie, except the light streak wasnt a meteor or even an alien invasion. On twilight Wednesday, some LA residents found themselves watching what appeared to be a massive fireball streaking across the skies before it eventually vanished from their eyesight. It turned out to be a new Red Bull stunt to celebrate a phenomenon called a supermoon, which will be the last for 2019. It featured a pair of its winged-suit Air Force jumpers with pyrotechnics, flying at more than 120 miles an hour across the metro. Death-Defying Marketing Stunt The lack of advisory from Red Bull was enough to stir panic and questions among those who saw the streak of light. Social media immediately went abuzz, guessing what it could be. The Los Angeles Police Department also joined the fray perhaps after it had received calls from concerned citizens. PSA: A meteor did not crash into Downtown Los Angeles, and no, it's not an alien invasion...just a film shoot. This is Tinseltown after all, the headquarters said on Twitter. It is unclear whether the Red Bull stunt was a marketing promotion or a commercial shoot, however. "LED lights and sparkling pyrotechnics that lit up the night sky as the sun set and the supermoon rose," said the brand in its statement. Red Bull, though, is known for its advertising campaigns that try to stick to its brand slogan, which is Give You Wings. In 2013, Felix Baumgartner, a daredevil and an Austrian pilot, defied gravity with his supersonic skydiving as part of the companys Stratos campaign. In the project, the Fearless Felix found himself free-falling from a height of 127,000 feet above the Earths surface at a speed of more than 833.9 mph. Thats 140 mph above the speed barrier. Dont Take Meteor Strikes Lightly, Though While LA residents can breathe a sigh of relief, meteor showers and strikes are not uncommon events. In 2017, a meteor strike that went across Lapland lit up the sky, turning the night into daytime for a few seconds. Its passage coincided with at least three more similar events in different areas of the globe. About five years before, a Norwegian man narrowly missed a meteorite as he skydived. The object, which was on its last phases before impact, swooshed past him at 200 mph. Its rare to hear fatalities due to meteor showers or strikes, although it doesnt mean they are harmless. In 2013, a meteorite exploded in Russia, injuring over 1,200 people and destroying 7,200 buildings. The object already weighed around 12,000 tons and had a diameter of at least 17 meters, yet experts believe it was still small compared to possible flying objects that could hit the Earth, such as an asteroid. In the meantime, catch the Red Bull meteor strike in this video: 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. There is an alarming lack of diversity in the genomic study of human diseases and it presents serious consequences to public health. A new paper found that people of European descent make up the majority of the individuals who participate in various research that links genetics and diseases. The researchers argued that the racial bias in the field limits the understanding of how genetic and environmental factors influence health. European Bias In Genomic Research In the study published in the journal Cell on Thursday, March 21, researchers found that 78 percent of all individuals included in genomic studies of human diseases were of European descent. Only 10 percent of the total number of participants were of Asian ancestry, 2 percent were African, 1 percent were Hispanic, and less than 1 percent were from other ethnic groups. Harmful Effects Of Lack Of Diversity The discovery is alarming because Europeans and their offsprings only represent 12 percent of the global population. Ignoring the rest of the world means that scientists could be missing vital information that would advance the study of certain diseases and lead to the development of more effective treatment. Researchers said that the European bias within genomic studies of diseases will harm the public and further exacerbate existing health inequalities. "For example, approaches are being developed to predict a person's risk of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, or diabetes based on their status for multiple genes," explained Scott M. Williams of the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, a co-author of the study. "But such calculations developed based on evidence from primarily European populations may not apply to people of other ethnic backgrounds." People are already feeling the consequences of the lack of diversity in genomic studies of human diseases. PBS noted that in one study, a genotype-guided algorithm prescribed too much medication among African-American patients, leading to an increased risk of uncontrolled bleeding. "The lack of ethnic diversity in human genomic studies means that our ability to translate genetic research into clinical practice or public health policy may be dangerously incomplete, or worse, mistaken," the researchers wrote. In light of the discovery, the researchers are calling for an increase in diversity in genomic studies. They also highlight the need to fund studies and infrastructures that focus on ethnically diverse populations and often neglected groups. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A petition to temporarily close Temple University is gaining support online amid the outbreak of mumps, a highly-contagious disease, among students. Concern Grows Amid Mumps Outbreak At Temple University So far, the petition has received over 10,000 signatures and is on track of reaching its goal of 15,000 signature. "There is a large number of students with autoimmune diseases at Temple who are at a much greater risk of developing the Mumps," the petitioners stated. "Even the slightest exposure to the infection could put students with these compromised immune systems at risk for not only developing the Mumps, but worsening their pre-existing conditions. This outbreak makes Temple an unsafe environment for all students and faculty, but especially students and faculty with autoimmune diseases." Philadelphia public health officials believe that 74 people have contracted the mumps at Temple University as of Wednesday, March 20. The outbreak of mumps has caused serious concern among students. Even those who received the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine are worried that they might catch the disease. "I'm vaccinated but I'm still like scared to get it," said a student from Temple University, "so I'm kind of avoiding going out and stuff." The number of possible mumps cases continues to grow every day and students are afraid that the outbreak might get out of hand. Mumps takes weeks before symptoms appear and people who were exposed could continue to spread the virus without knowing it. Philadelphia public health officials recommend that those who suspect that they caught the highly contagious disease should stay home, avoid contact with other people, and immediately seek medical care. Temple University Responds Due to the growing support for the petition and the fear spreading among students, Temple University said that it will begin offering free vaccines within the campus in an effort to control the mumps outbreak. Students who have not had the shots can avail of the services from March 27 to March 29 at Mitten Hall's Great Court. A spokesperson said, however, that there are currently no plans for a temporary closure. The local health department also does not recommend a temporary closure. Symptoms of mumps include swollen or tender cheeks and jaw, fever, headache, muscle ache, tiredness, and loss of appetite. The disease is transmitted through coughing, sneezing, talking, and direct contact with the infected person. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A geostorm on Friday may give people in the Northern United States and Canada a chance to witness the aurora borealis from where they are. Which places will have this rare opportunity? Geostorm Warning On March 21, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a geostorm warning for March 22 to 24 as a result of a solar flare that erupted last March 20. The geostorm warnings for the said days are as follows: below G1 for March 22, G2 for March 23, and G1 for March 24. This means that on the evening of Friday, March 22, up until early morning on Saturday, March 23, the solar flare will bend around the Earths magnetic field and slam onto the poles. As a result, the northern lights will be supercharged and cause it to go deeper. While this may cause some minor blackouts in some high-frequency radio signals and navigation signals, it may also give some people a chance to see the northern lights. Northern Lights In America With the geostorm warning, people in the Northern United States may be able to see the northern lights should the conditions allow it. With a clear and dark sky, people in Canada, North Dakota, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Montana, Michigan, Vermont, and Maine may be able to watch the northern lights, while those in Detroit and Chicago may be able to see it on the horizon. The light show may be seen best about three or four hours around midnight, but those who live in light-polluted locations may find it harder. Furthermore, the bright moon on Friday may make it a little difficult as well. Northern Lights Typically, the auroras can be seen in the northern and southern hemisphere. In the north, it is called the aurora borealis and can be seen in parts of northwestern Canada, Iceland, Greenland, Alaska, Norway, and Siberia, while the aurora australis in the south are not often seen, as they are concentrated over Antarctica and the southern Indian Ocean. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Distinguishing digital Providing better online user experiences Leveraging modern technologies Deploying iterative project management practices Fixing procurement Recruiting and hiring great people Exponential digital How does it build a more unified, elegant experience for the people of California? How does this scale to other agencies? How will it save money for the state of California? Example digital Mandatory digital Pause innovation Appoint an empowered chief digital officer (and Internet-era CTO) One domain, one directive Use open standards and solutions by default Maximize reuse Enable interoperability Use cloud first Design for performance, availability and scalability Design for security and privacy Control spending or shut it down Measure and publish progress How is it building a more unified, elegant experience for the people of California? How is it scaling to other agencies? How is it saving money for the state of California? Onward digital California is on the cusp of ushering in a new era of government digital services, one that our elected leaders can finally align, prioritize and execute on, and prove to the people of the Golden State that our representatives are ready to innovate just as other industries here have done.The future of the digital government services we deserve is in the hands of Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature, who now must work together and execute on a holistic, forward-thinking plan, with both having a strong understanding and commitment to what this means, so that theres little confusion as to how it will work.Newsom himself authored a book focused on digital public service and the scalable, impactful power of civic technology. He has championed modern technologies from open standards to software-as-a-service throughout his political career. We have a governor who gets digital and technology better than anyone previous, and perhaps more so than any other governor in the United States.This, coupled with the Legislatures understandable frustrations with recurring, failed billion-dollar technology projects and many poorly executed million-dollar ones offers the perfect storm to propel us toward the digital change we need.Newsom has proposed a new Office of Digital Innovation as part of the states 201920 budget, with initial startup costs of $36.2 million and 50 positions. The proposal also includes an innovation academy and $20 million innovation fund.When the official budget is approved in June, well know better what type of commitment will be made to this effort and how far forward-thinking California a state that prides itself on technology innovation will think different.This first $56 million is the seed money we need to create the scalable digital revolution that will change California government services for the better, forever.Built on my recent research on digital government services as well as the book Digital Transformation at Scale , here are thoughts on how we get there.There is typically confusion as to the difference between digital and technology. While digital leverages technology, digital is not purely a technology function. Digital is a scalable, sustainable approach to serving people online.Government technology departments at their core should focus on setting a directive that provides governance and guidelines to all agencies. They also should procure and manage general, multi-use software and platforms at licenses and costs that financially benefit the state. Their core function ensures there is an exponential approach to how the state is leveraging technology, be it bespoke, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) or a combination of both.While an important one, technology is just one component of digital government service delivery.Digital, on the other hand, as elegantly defined by the Canadian Digital Service , is helping government design and build better services.Generally, government service delivery includes:Digital government organizations that have emerged over the past decade at the state and local level nationally include San Francisco Digital Services Digital Services Georgia and Massachusetts Digital Service , to name just a few.Its important for government leaders particularly elected officials responsible for budget allocation to distinguish between digital and technology, so as to not confuse past IT failures and building a future digital government strategy. Our government leaders must understand that the former has often occurred because the lack of the latter.In todays age, knowledge and technology scale and can be deployed and accessed faster and more cheaply than ever before. Examples of this include Wikipedia ( billions of page views per month ), WordPress ( powers 26 percent of the Web ) and the cloud. These technologies have grown in usage because of an open, exponential mindset, the same one the government of today must have. As do technology entrepreneurs, our public-sector leaders must ask this question when thinking exponential government: How do we serve the most people as efficiently and effectively and resourcefully as possible?Incremental government service delivery is the status quo approach responsible for government technology failures in California and globally. Those failures are rooted in a lack of standards or a technology directive that provides guidance as to how all systems should operate.California government leaders must think exponential, enforcing standards and guidance rooted in open and platform-based standards and technologies that empower state public servants to do their jobs the way they intend. Exponential questions state leaders should ask about every digital or technology initiative:The United Kingdoms Government Digital Service was founded in 2011. By 2013, it had 200 employees. Today, it has more than 850, all managing delivery, guidance, a marketplace and multiple platforms and products that uniformly serve the people of the UK.Its genesis came from a 2010 report, Directgov 2010 and beyond: revolution not evolution , that advocated for bold recommendations, including a unified digital presence, a designated team with absolute control of the overall user experience across all digital channels, commissioning all government online information from other departments.It also recommended a CEO for Digital absolute authority over the user experience across all government online services (websites and APls) and the power to direct all government online spending.It has become the blueprint for how governments can elegantly and exponentially execute digital services holistically and sustainably. It has brought respect and pride to the work of public service not just in the UK, but globally.The GDS birth and evolution, including lessons learned and recommendations for how to build a government digital service elsewhere, are well-documented in Digital Transformation at Scale , written by four of its founders and former executive, design and technology leaders. It is a must-read for every public service employee anywhere.Exponential digital will require aspirational and bold leadership from Newsom and the Legislature, some of which may not be popular with status quo thinkers. Following successful digital execution in the UK, California should learn from this and make these tough choices for the sake of the people and the future of state public service.The word "innovation" and general concept evoke a sentiment that those involved with it will not be focused on meaningful, concrete deliverables. The proposed Office of Digital Innovation should be renamed to emphasize actual service delivery and not transcendental technology endeavors that do not involve solving real problems right now. This new organization needs to be taken seriously from the start, and naming it based on function is as important for optics as it is for internal focus.As the GDS founders and former leaders write inNo innovation until things work.The proposed organization should be named Digital California, California Digital Services, or something similar that indicates deliverables at scale is its primary focus.Digital California needs a senior-level executive that holds rank with other cabinet officials and has a mandate to lead comprehensive digital services into the future. If this person is third-tier on the organizational chart, Digital California wont have the political, financial or administrative authority to effectively execute and will potentially devolve into an incremental organization.The time has also come for an Internet-era chief technology officer who either works within Digital California or as the chief executive of the California Department of Technology. California must have a leader with bona fide IT experience and proven leadership one who deeply understands and deploys technology on multiple fronts to establish a proactive technology directive, as well as better vet current projects.California must move all Web operations to its primary domain, ca.gov , and begin consolidating all websites and transactions into a One California user experience. The single domain approach must include a service manual service standard and digital strategy , aligning digital direction forward, much like the technology directive will for IT.In collaboration with Digital California, CDT must develop a technology directive that outlines standards, governance and guidelines for implementing and managing technology used by the state. In 2018, Canada published its Directive on Management of Information Technology , and its a blueprint for how California should proceed. Notable components of the directive include:California has yet to deliver proactive technology leadership such as Canadas, and its imperative going forward that it does. Having a coherent, holistic framework for how the state procures and manages its relationship with technology whether bespoke or through third-party software and platform services is a requisite for the health of future California IT projects and digital delivery.California should never again have to experience billion-dollar IT failures. As the UK government did, there must be spending controls that limit the lifetime value of an IT contract. In the UKs case, it was $100 million.As the authors of Digital Transformation at Scale write: Any large organization with growing IT costs needs to recognize that it is running against market trends; the cost of established technology is falling, and the last thing an organization needs is to buy even more of it. If you want the same outcomes for your business, your IT should get cheaper. If you want outcomes that improve at the same rate as technology evolves, the costs should stay broadly the same. And if you want to be at the bleeding edge, you should make very sure you are making a wise investment.Digital California should establish an assessment team to determine whether projects should be dissolved before they turn into epic failures. Based on objective standards and knowledge of delivery and technology, this team should be empowered to shutter any project that isnt meeting its intended service objective.Again, as the authors of Digital Transformation at Scale write: Those responsible for making decisions over the wisdom of a technology investment or digital service should be people who deeply understand technology or who have built digital services. This sounds obvious, but is often not the case. Rather than clever generalists looking at forms, appraisals and assessments were led by multidisciplinary panels of specialists experts unafraid of putting a few noses out of joint, not generalists with one eye on their career.Digital California must continuously be open about its progress, from delivery status to fiscal impact. There should be reporting that highlights, in the context of digital, how its answering the three questions posed earlier:The UK does this with its performance dashboard andThe U.S. Digital Service does this in an annual report to Congress.In 2017 , USDS reported to Congress that over a five-year period, we project our current projects will save $617 million and redirect 1,475 labor years toward higher-value work.Digital California should provide both a performance dashboard and annual report, in context of deliverables and financial savings, so that progress can be regularly monitored, shared and celebrated. This will ensure there is ongoing insight into progress and less of a potential for failure in the context weve seen in the past.As weve seen with GDS and USDS, Californias potential for financial savings alone is exponential. A deeper dive into the UKs performance dashboard shows equal opportunity for delivering and scaling public digital services.U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris of California raised the bar on digital leadership last week, proposing the Digital Service Act that would allocate increased funding and support to USDS and state and local governments.We must do more to empower our state and local governments to tap into the power of technology to provide seamless, cost-effective services for the 21st century, said Harris. The Digital Service Act will help harness top talent for the government, save taxpayer dollars, and put the power of technology to work on behalf of the American people.As the largest state in America with the fifth-largest economy in the world (larger than the UK), California must take the opportunity it has before us and execute a bold approach by making a GDS-like investment in its digital future. For elected officials who represent innovative constituents and organizations across many industries, doing the same for government is a no-brainer.As our governor and Legislature work to determine the future of the California public services, its people are counting on high aspirations and great courage to lead them into the digital future. The Council for the Development of French in Louisiana wants local businesses to say Oui! to incorporating French into their establishments. CODOFIL launched its Oui! initiative at the Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market Saturday in coordination with Francophonie Week celebrations. Oui! is an online database of businesses that have a French language presence, anything from French speaking staff to French signage. French being visible shows its still here and vibrant. Its our way of trying to combat the misconception that French is dead, or French is dying in Louisiana, said Matt Mick, communications director for CODOFIL. Mick said many French speakers in Louisiana reverted to using the language exclusively in the home after the stigmatization of French in the 1900s, when an Americanization wave swept the country. Its created the perception French has disappeared from Louisianas culture, he said. People still speak French today, and CODOFIL wants to encourage its use in public. Identifying businesses with French elements is good for showing people new ways to use the language locally, Mick said. Maggie Perkins, CODOFILs community development specialist, has spearheaded the Oui! initiative since joining the team in May. She said working with local businesses has been like a treasure hunt; many managers and owners had French speakers on staff but didnt realize it could be a benefit in the workplace. Perkins currently has 81 businesses listed on the online database statewide. Each business is categorized by the type of service it offers, such as a restaurant, physician or hotel, and visitors can search through the businesses in list form or using a map, she said. Each listing includes a description of the French services available, such as whether a fluent staff member is present on certain days or if French pamphlets or menus are available, Perkins said. On Saturday, French speakers flocked to the CODOFIL tent, chatting excitedly in French with CODOFIL staff members and volunteers about the new resource. Now people understand you can be a good American and speak two languages. You dont have a language loyalty problem, Perkins said. 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 In fact, speaking French or offering French services at businesses can be an economic boost, she said. Many tourists from Canada, Belgium and French-speaking Africa come to visit the region, and they appreciate being able to use their own language when visiting America. Promoting the areas dialect is good for the culture and can be good for business, Perkins said. Mark Hernandez, director of the Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market, said hes encouraging more market vendors to consider incorporating French into their customer service. Roughly 20 percent of the markets 150 rotating vendors speak French, Hernandez said, and two of the markets board members are also fluent in French. The market takes pride in exposing people to the culture of the region, and the French language is part of that, he said. Perkins said the next phase of the initiative is to push new businesses to explore the benefits of utilizing French in the workplace. Perkins will be a guest speaker at the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commissions April 10 meeting to promote the business initiative. CODOFILs announcement isnt the only French culture news happening in Acadiana this week. Members of the Congres Mondial Acadien, or World Congress of Acadians, are visiting Lafayette ahead of their 2019 celebration in Prince Edward Island and Southeast New Brunswick. The Congres is an international event held every five years to celebrate Acadian communities around the world and promote the continuation of the culture. Congres executives met with the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission and staff from the lieutenant governors office to discuss the event and experience Louisianas Acadian heritage. State Sen. Karen Carter Peterson of New Orleans almost certainly wont face prosecution for having illegally entered LAuberge Baton Rouge casino last month, Hillar Moore III, the East Baton Rouge Parish district attorney, said Saturday. Moore said he has spoken several times with Peterson over the past couple of weeks since he received the Louisiana State Police misdemeanor summons. Karen Carter Peterson, Louisiana Democratic leader, admits to gambling problem: 'It is a disease' Karen Carter Peterson, who is both a state senator from New Orleans and chair of the state Democratic Party, disclosed in an email Friday nigh Peterson, who also chairs the state Democratic Party, acknowledged that she is a compulsive gambler Friday shortly after news of the summons became public. She said she voluntarily put her name two years ago on a list of people who are banned from visiting Louisiana gambling establishments in an attempt to deal with their problem. Moore said Peterson admitted her gambling addiction to him and has been undergoing counseling. Moore said she has sent him information on the steps she is taking to grapple with the problem, but he declined to provide specifics. We try not to prosecute cases where people make mistakes and take the appropriate steps to address their action, as opposed to people who dont or who commit violent acts, Moore said. This case doesnt affect public safety. The action by the person is sufficient to deal with the issue. Thats how we handle just about all of these kinds of self-exclusion violations. You dont need the criminal justice system to be involved when someone has committed an offense that hasnt affected public safety. Moore said he will probably make a formal decision about Peterson in the next month, but that he would move to prosecute her only if he discovers something that causes him to view her activities more critically. Someone convicted of the misdemeanor of visiting a casino illegally faces up to a $500 fine and six months in prison though its not clear whether anyone has ever been prosecuted for the crime, given that its essentially designed to prevent self-harm. Moore said he receives a referral for such a self-exclusion ban violation every two or three months. How many people are on the banned list is not known. The list is confidential. Peterson, who is also a vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, went public with her gambling problems in an email and Facebook post Friday night, minutes after WWL-TV reported that State Police had issued her a summons. It is a disease, she wrote. From time to time, I have relapsed; I have let myself down as well as family and friends who are near and dear to me. Petersons case shines a light on a little-known program that is common in states that allow gambling. Someone gets on the self-ban list in Louisiana by presenting the proper paperwork at one of five State Police offices. A photograph of the person then is distributed to all Louisiana gambling establishments except for the states three casinos owned by Native American tribes. 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 Those on the list cannot seek to remove themselves from the ban for five years and can do so then only after presenting a letter from a doctor certifying that they can participate in gaming activities without adverse risks or consequences, according to state law. Casino companies wouldnt normally notice that a banned person is gambling in their facility unless the person tries to cash in a jackpot or brings attention to himself or herself. State Police have not disclosed how their trooper identified Peterson. Casinos that knowingly allow self-excluded people to gamble in their facilities face sanctions from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board. The board levied a $100,000 fine against the Belle of Baton Rouge in February for allowing a person on the self-excluded list to gamble at its riverboat casino for more than a year. During that time, the casino signed up the gambler for frequent play cards and promotions. In her statement Friday night, Peterson said her summons became public because of an intentional breach of confidentiality regarding a voluntary state program designed to help individuals avoid the negative effects of gambling. WWL-TV investigative reporter Katie Moore, who broke the story, tweeted on Saturday that she received the information about the summons through a public-records request. The only leak of information that was not public (her addiction, involvement in the self-exclusion list) came from the senator, Moore said. Peterson is a vocal and often outspoken member of the state Senate who has not minded in some instances being the sole senator who votes against a bill. She handled the major piece of gambling legislation that came before lawmakers last year. It would have extended the state license for Harrah's to operate the only land casino in New Orleans for another 30 years. The Canal Street casino is in her legislative district. The controversial measure died on the final day of the session, with the House and Senate deadlocked over competing measures. Peterson was the bill's lead sponsor in the Senate, testifying in favor of it and serving as one of the Senates three negotiators who tried to hash out differences with the House version. Her only effort was to make sure the city of New Orleans got its fair share, said Senate President John Alario, R-Westwego. She never once pushed hard for Harrahs or any other casino." Alario said he didnt know Peterson was on the self-exclusion list. If he had, he said, he wouldnt have named her as one of the three negotiators. But, he added, I have no concerns about her integrity. Gov. John Bel Edwards, the state's highest-ranking Democratic official, released a statement Saturday. Karen has shown strength and contrition in the face of a difficult situation, he said. "Addiction is a terrible disease and I am praying for her, her family and her recovery. Staff writer Jacqueline DeRobertis contributed to this article. Purchases made via links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission A background investigation has been completed on the company LSU contracted with for its medical marijuana program, giving GB Sciences the go-ahead to start full-scale growing operations in its permanent south Baton Rouge facility. Full-scale operations mean a consistent and continuous supply of medical cannabis," John Davis, GB Sciences Louisiana president, said in a statement. Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry Mike Strain announced Friday the completion of the background investigation by Louisiana State Police. The next step is for the ag department, which regulates the state's two marijuana growers, and the Louisiana Department of Health to inspect the marijuana production facility, which is scheduled for Wednesday. LSU claims ag department's accusations over marijuana law-breaking are 'reckless,' 'untrue' LSU is batting back allegations it broke the law when expanding its medical marijuana program, calling Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Comm The company already has produced two successful harvests in a small exterior facility that will allow GB Sciences Louisiana to soon begin the creation of final formulations of nonsmokable medical marijuana. The formulations will be submitted to the agriculture department for final testing and ultimately distributed to nine approved pharmacies around the state. The company needed access to its larger facility to allow for a perpetual harvest cycle, ensuring a continuous supply of medical marijuana for patients with qualifying conditions, such as HIV, cancer, seizures, epilepsy, Crohn's disease and multiple sclerosis. The main production facility in a former Pepsi distribution center in south Baton Rouge has more than five times the production capacity of the exterior facility that GB Sciences Louisiana has been operating. The main facility is equipped with modular clean room technology for use in the production of plants and formulation of final products. Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up "We are thrilled to move into our main facilities, Davis said. This is a great day for patients. The agriculture department proposed a deal in late February that outlined several conditions that would allow LSU and GB Sciences to move into two rooms of their main production facility while the background check continued. LSU rejected terms of the proposal but went forward with the expansion. Soon after, the agriculture department sent an inspector to the facility and accused the school of breaking state law by expanding without signing onto the deal. The agriculture department has battled publicly for months with LSU and GB Sciences over the regulatory process, which has been delayed numerous times. Medical marijuana has still not reached state-approved pharmacies' shelves, years after the program was legalized. The other state-approved grower, Southern University's AgCenter, is lagging behind after delays involving the company it chose for its operations. The LSU AgCenter and GB Sciences Louisiana have worked diligently on this initiative since GBs selection in September 2017. We are very happy to have this milestone completed, and we look forward to getting this much-needed product out to the patients of Louisiana, said William B. Richardson, LSU vice president for agriculture. A black man has asked a state appellate court to reconsider his request for a new trial location because of a Confederate statue outside the East Feliciana courthouse, appealing a November decision from a district court judge that keeps criminal proceedings in Clinton. Ronnie Anderson, a 39-year-old Plaquemine man charged with a felony from a 2017 traffic stop in East Feliciana Parish, has filed with the 1st Circuit Court of Appeal, asking for a new venue for his trial. He also is requesting the appeals court dismiss the entire case against him, alleging it is based on faulty evidence and shoddy police work. "To the Defendant, the monument served as intimidation and a reminder of the way African Americans were treated during slavery and the Jim Crow Era of legal racial discrimination, Niles Haymer, Andersons attorney, wrote in the appeal. Judge denies latest request to move case from Clinton courthouse with Confederate statue CLINTON A state judge on Wednesday again denied a black defendant's request to move his trial from the East Feliciana Parish courthouse beca Haymer alleges the statue is offensive, intimidating and racially insensitive. The appeal also notes the extensive media attention the case has received, which Haymer believes could bias potential jurors, especially in the relatively small and rural parish. He notes the Clinton mayor, the parish president and the district attorney have all commented on the case in different media accounts, sometimes multiple times, which he thinks will make it impossible to find an impartial jury. "The trial court erred in not granting defendant's motion for a change of venue for the alternate reasons of the publicity the defendants controversial stance against the confederate monument has caused, the filing says. Anderson was stopped by a Wilson Police officer in November 2017 for speeding when the officer saw a stolen gun in the front passenger seat. According to the arrest report written by the officer, a passenger in the vehicle identified the gun as Andersons. Anderson was initially charged with illegal possession of a stolen firearm, illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and speeding charges than can carry up to 50 years in prison. But the statements from the traffic stop were suppressed by a state judge in a November hearing because she determined the officer did not properly read Anderson his rights. Now, Anderson faces only a charge of illegal possession of a stolen firearm. His life was on the line, Haymer said in an interview, referencing his clients initial charges. He wants to make sure hes tried in a courthouse thats not revering the Confederacy. And thats the message thats being sent to African Americans when they enter the Clinton courthouse. Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Haymer wanted to be clear that his motion does not ask that the monument be removed from the courthouse grounds as has been the decision made by jurisdictions across the nation. In 2016, the East Feliciana police jury considered relocating the Confederate soldier statue after a resident brought a proposal to the parish governing board, but ultimately they decided not to act. Police Jury eyes removal of statue CLINTON The East Feliciana Parish Police Jury passed two hot topics to a committee Monday, including a proposal to uproot the Confederate so Haymer also requested the appellate court reconsider his motion to dismiss the entire case, which was denied in November, and a motion to suppress evidence, which was partially granted by the district court judge in November. District Judge Kathryn "Betsy" Jones dismissed using statements made at the traffic stop as evidence, but allowed the gun to remain part of the case. Jones denied the change in venue request, explaining how she was worried about what precedent it could send for whenever someone was offended by someone. She also noted that the statue, which she called "just a piece of granite," is outside of the courtroom, and the only symbol in the courtroom is an American flag. But Haymer cited a U.S. Fourth Circuit ruling that found it is not an irrational inference that one who displayed the Confederate flag may harbor racial bias against African Americans and asked the same logic be applied to the 30-foot Confederate statue outside the Clinton courthouse. East Feliciana District Attorney Sam D'Aquilla said this week that his position on the matter has not changed from prior proceedings where he countered Haymers allegations and noted his office will be filing a response to the new appeal. In earlier hearings, D'Aquilla disputed claims that the presence of a Confederate statue outside the courthouse would prevent Anderson from being treated fairly under the law. After one of the hearings in the case, he called justice in his parish "colorblind." Lawyer for black defendant asks town of Clinton to remove Confederate statue from courthouse A black defendant pushing for the removal of a Confederate monument from the grounds of the East Feliciana Parish courthouse in Clinton now wa D'Aquilla said he found Judge Jones' decision in November just and adequate. The First Circuit Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments on the case within the next two months, and a decision from could be made on as early as June 1 the court's next decision date but that will be up to the courts discretion. Attorney General Jeff Landry says Gov. John Bel Edwards' administration has created a "constitutional crisis" by presenting an executive budget proposal last month that exceeds the recognized revenue estimate for the coming year. "The governor failed to fulfill his constitutional and statutory duties," Landry, a Republican who has frequently been at odds with the Democratic governor, wrote in a legal opinion issued Friday. The attorney general's opinion is not legally binding, but it could be used as the basis of a lawsuit challenging the governor. State House Majority Leader Lance Harris, an Alexandria Republican who is on the Appropriations Committee, requested that the attorney general weigh in. Edwards also has frequently feuded with House GOP leaders. Edwards' administration was required to submit a spending proposal for the budget that begins July 1 to the Legislature last month, but because House leadership repeatedly rebuffed attempts to update the state's revenue estimate to meet state economists' better projections, Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne presented an outline of what Edwards' spending priorities would be when the increased revenue is recognized, rather than the lower estimate set a year ago. House Republicans continue to challenge Gov. John Bel Edwards' administration on budget priorities Louisiana lawmakers shored up the states finances during a special session last year, but that doesnt mean budget showdowns are over at the Dardenne on Friday defended the administration's decision, despite the AG's opinion. The scoop on state politics in your inbox Get the Louisiana politics insider details once a week from us. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Hes entitled to his opinion, we just think it happens to be wrong, Dardenne said. He said he expects the issue to be a moot point when the Legislature begins debating the budget and additional revenue is recognized. Were trying to make this as easy as possible on the Legislature and the legislative staff, Dardenne said. The attorney general's opinion is the latest move in a three-year feud that House Republicans have engaged in with Edwards, publicly challenging him on state spending and taxes. The Legislature last year, after seven special sessions, agreed to extend part of an otherwise expiring sales tax hike to shore up the state's finances. Republicans say they have set out on the revenue estimate battle because they want to make sure that the state's finances are sound before appropriating money. The Edwards' administration has accused them of playing a political game to block him from taking credit for his top priority for the session -- pay raises for teachers. A two car crash on I-12 near Airport Road in St. Tammany Parish killed one early Saturday morning. The driver of a tractor trailer reached down to retrieve a dropped cell phone when his vehicle swerved left into a car going the same direction, according to a Louisiana State Police news release. The driver of the car was not wearing a seat belt at the time and was ejected from the vehicle. He sustained fatal injuries. Authorities responded to the accident around 12:23 a.m. The driver of the trailer was transported to the Oschner medical Center-North Shore to be treated for minor injuries. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. Calvin Duncan was soaking in the sun outside the federal courthouse in New Orleans about a year ago when the subject turned to Greek mythology. My middle name should have been Sisyphus, cracked Duncan, who spent 28 years in state prison, most of it as an "inmate lawyer" helping other prisoners with their legal cases. At that point, Duncan had helped 19 Louisiana inmates file nearly identical petitions, each one asking the U.S. Supreme Court to reject the states law allowing divided jury verdicts as unconstitutional. And each time, the high court refused. The question comes up: Why does Sisyphus continue to roll that boulder up the mountain when the gods had condemned him (to have it roll back down each time)? Duncan said. But his attitude was, Yeah, yall have spoken, and yall wrong. And Im gonna keep on trying until that happens. Then last week, the high court finally agreed to revisit split jury verdicts in a New Orleans murder case the 23rd petition that Duncan helped engineer. The courts decision to accept the case of Evangelisto Ramos could mean far more than redemption for Duncan, who went free in 2011. A ruling in Ramos favor could affect thousands of inmates and criminal defendants in Louisiana and Oregon, the only two states to break from a centuries-old tradition of requiring jury unanimity in American courts. Anyone recently found guilty by a split jury in those two states could see their convictions overturned. And the legal playing field would shift for hundreds and perhaps thousands of others now awaiting trial on serious felony charges. Even if it finds split verdicts unconstitutional, as many legal scholars predict, the court is not expected to reverse the fortunes of thousands of other people in Louisiana and Oregon who were convicted by split juries but have exhausted their appeals a process that often takes a couple of years, and sometimes longer. Legal experts say the court is likely to save that thorny question for later. It probably wasnt Duncans persistence that convinced the justices to revisit the courts controversial 1972 decision in Apodaca v. Oregon, a ruling that observers and even the court itself have described as a legal oddball. More likely, court watchers say, at least four justices decided the timing was right to settle a much broader question over the reach of the Bill of Rights the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, which guarantee an array of civil liberties. Before the 14th Amendment was passed in the wake of the Civil War, the Supreme Court viewed the Bill of Rights as applying only to the federal government, not the states in part because this was the only way to accommodate slavery. Even in the years after slavery was abolished, the court initially viewed those rights narrowly when it came to the states. Another New Orleans case set the stage in 1873. In a challenge to a slaughterhouse monopoly granted in the city, the court found that the 14th Amendment extended to the states only in banning them from depriving black people of equal rights. That started to change in the 1920s, as the court began to require the states to recognize, in piecemeal fashion, the individual liberties enumerated in the Bill of Rights, a process known as incorporation. Before 1963, for instance, defendants in state court had no guaranteed right to counsel. The right to a jury trial itself in serious criminal cases didnt come around for state defendants until 1968, in another Louisiana case. Now, very few federal protections remain that the court has not explicitly applied to the states as well: a prohibition against the forced accommodation of soldiers; a requirement for grand jury indictments; a right to a jury trial in civil cases, which no state contests; and a right to unanimous criminal juries that is not spelled out in the Sixth Amendment. Legal scholars see the courts 1972 split decision in Apodaca v. Oregon as an anomaly. Four of the justices thought the Constitution required unanimous juries in both state and federal trials. Four others said it was optional in both. Justice Lewis Powell Jr. broke the tie, holding that federal juries must return unanimous decisions, but that the states were free to adopt different rules. The decision meant that states could allow as few as nine of 12 jurors to agree to convict or acquit a defendant in felony trials. (A year later, Louisiana raised the number of jurors required to reach a valid verdict from nine to 10.) The Supreme Court itself took note of the peculiar outcome of the Apodaca case in a 2010 opinion that incorporated the Second Amendment in a case involving local gun restrictions in Chicago. In that case, Justice Samuel Alito described the Apodaca decision as one exception that does not undermine the well-established rule that incorporated Bill of Rights protections apply identically to the States and the Federal Government. That sentiment seems to extend to both ends of the courts ideological spectrum. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, a notorious liberal justice, echoed the comments of the conservative Alito last month while finding that the Eighth Amendments ban on excessive fines applies equally to the states. 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 Justice Neil Gorsuch, one of the courts newest members, may have telegraphed the courts interest in revisiting the Apodaca decision as he questioned an Indiana state attorney last year in the excessive fines case. And here we are in 2018, still litigating incorporation of the Bill of Rights, Gorsuch said incredulously. Really? Its a different question than the one a Sabine Parish judge answered last year when he found Louisianas split-verdict law to be unconstitutional. In that ruling, which for now appears to affect only cases in that parish, 11th District Judge Stephen Beasley cited the split-verdict laws racist origins in 1898, as well as extensive data gathered by The Advocate that revealed the law continues to have a lopsided impact on black defendants and black jurors. Based on those findings, Beasley found that the law violates the "equal protection clause" of the 14th Amendment. Ramos is taking a different approach, also attacking the split-verdict law as a violation of the Sixth Amendment, but through the "due process clause" of the 14th Amendment a popular vehicle for incorporating rights against the states. His attorney, Ben Cohen, said the evidence that the law has a disparate racial impact is important, because when you try to understand, should this right be fully incorporated, the fact it was done in this way, to silence the voices of African-American jurors, is relevant. Still, the evidence of a racial impact from the law is unlikely to play a leading role as the Supreme Court debates split verdicts, said Loyola law school professor Andrea Armstrong. Its squarely an incorporation question, she said. Aliza Kaplan, a law professor at Lewis & Clark University in Oregon who has advocated against split verdicts, agreed. Even at the time of Apodaca, I dont think anyone felt that secure in the (ruling) because it was such a strange opinion, Kaplan said. What weve seen since then is a louder move toward being very clear about incorporation. Kaplan suspects the courts move in that direction perhaps nudged along by its newest members, Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh spurred the decision to take a fresh look at divided juries. But the justices may also have been persuaded by Louisiana voters resounding decision in November to abolish split jury verdicts, she said. The Supreme Court really does try to be somewhat in step with society, she said. The Louisiana vote sends a message that people dont want this. Justice Antonin Scalia, the conservative legal lion who died in 2016, had some strong words in support of jury unanimity, and his influence may be holding sway among his admirers, Kaplan said. I always thought if Scalia had this, he would do the right thing. And I think thats what we see with a couple of the newer justices. Theyre more in that mold with regard to criminal justice issues, she said. No date for the high court to hear the issue has been set. Arguing against Ramos will be Attorney General Jeff Landrys office, which as the states lawyer opposed Ramos petition. Landrys office has argued that the Sixth Amendment doesnt specify the right to a unanimous jury for a reason: It was debated by the amendment's drafters and rejected. Landrys lawyers also note that, through the Apodaca decision, the Supreme Court has explicitly allowed Louisiana and Oregon to rely on split jury verdicts for nearly a half century. Overruling it now would cause undue havoc, Landrys office argues, particularly if the court were eventually to declare its decision retroactive. Landrys office claimed in its response to Ramos petition that the vote in November considerably lessens the importance of a Supreme Court review. In a few years, Louisiana will no longer have trials with non-unanimous juries, attorneys for Landrys office and Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon Cannizzaros office wrote. Given how many times over the past 46 years this court has refused to review Louisianas non-unanimous jury system, this moment would be an odd one in which to choose to intervene. But thats exactly what the justices are doing, and in the view of several legal scholars, its unlikely they would have agreed to hear Ramos case if they werent inclined to do away with split verdicts. At least four of the nine justices had to agree on Mondays decision to hear the case. It will take five justices for a deciding opinion. Still, Duncan, who was released from prison in a deal with prosecutors over a troubled murder conviction, isnt quite ready to write a new ending to his favorite Greek myth. Its up there, Duncan said of his metaphorical boulder. Which way it comes back down we dont know. But we got it up there. None of Pfizers actions are illegal. But the investigation reveals the enormous influence pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer can have. In 2010, chronic pain wasnt on the agenda in Australia. There were few specialist doctors, no code number for chronic pain in hospitals, and few effective medicines available. Painaustralia was launched to advocate for those affected. Ms Brydon became its founding CEO. Meanwhile, Pfizer had a drug for treating nerve pain: Lyrica. But it was expensive, and according to some experts, not much better than a placebo for some common nerve-pain conditions like sciatica. In 2011, the health department rejected Pfizers application for a taxpayer subsidy for Lyrica because of "uncertain cost effectiveness". Health consumer organisations are meant to represent the interests of patients, lobby for funding for conditions, and fight for new drugs to be made available. But many accept significant donations from pharmaceutical companies, putting them at risk of a conflict of interest. Pfizer gave Painaustralia, the peak body that represents consumers and doctors, $433,175 between 2011 and 2016, according to Pfizer's disclosure records (Painaustralia puts this figure at $247,000). Two other health consumer groups, Chronic Pain Australia and the Australian Pain Management Association, each got hundreds of thousands of dollars, too. Spokespeople for all three groups denied Pfizer's funding - which they said was untied and unconditional - influenced them in any way. The funding was used for newsletters, education, media campaigns and other activities, and they said they never lobbied on Pfizer's behalf. But Ms Brydon, who retired from Painaustralia in 2017, was happy to speak candidly. It was part of their marketing strategy. They wouldnt have done it otherwise. Why would they do it otherwise?" she asked. A Pfizer spokesman said all its relationships were firmly above-board. Health consumer organisations play a vital role in supporting patients, their families and carers living with difficult health conditions, as well as advocating for improved standards of care and access to treatments," the spokesman said. Pfizers relationships with these groups are based on integrity, respect, and transparency, ensuring the independence and credibility of both organisations. We firmly contest any insinuation to the contrary. Pfizer also supported the National Pain Summit at Parliament House in Canberra in 2010, as well as the development of Painaustralias national pain strategy. That strategy with a foreword by a scientist who is a speaker for Pfizer and who took part in a Pfizer-funded trial on Lyrica, alongside Pfizer's employees called for Lyrica and other chronic pain medicines to be subsidised. In 2012, Pfizer applied for subsidy again. When a drug company applies for a subsidy, consumer groups are invited to make submissions. These submissions, which are meant to represent the views of patients, can have enormous influence on subsidy decisions, experts told The Age. The Australian Pain Management Association made a submission to the department, The Age's investigation discovered; Chronic Pain Australia encouraged its members to do the same. Both groups have received funding from Pfizer. By law, these submissions are confidential meaning the media and public cannot see who made submissions, or what was said. The strategy, the summit, the submissions, the consumer group advocacy; "it was like the perfect storm, it was all coming together," Ms Brydon says. And this time, Lyrica was approved for subsidy. Absolutely, the two things are linked. Pfizer was very lucky we were doing what we were doing. The timing was exquisite, really." "Self-interest drives these companies, and profit, let's not kid ourselves." Pfizers spokesman said the company sought subsidy for Lyrica on the request of patients, pain specialists and health consumer organisations. He said Pfizer had no strategy to win consumer groups support. Immediately after approval, Pfizers selling campaign kicked into action. Between April and September 2012, Pfizer ran 91 "education events" for doctors relating to pain almost four a week, according to University of Sydney researchers. Between April 2012 and September 2015, it would run 491 such events, at a cost of almost $3.8 million. US studies have found when a pharma company educates doctors about a drug, they tend to prescribe more of it, and do a worse job of making sure they are giving it for the right indications. We were seeing conferences being organised, bringing all the pain specialists in, says pain doctor Tony Hall, one of the first in the country to prescribe subsidised Lyrica. GPs were prescribing it for every type of pain, not just nerve pain. Thats an indication of just how widely Pfizer were promoting this medicine. In 2012, Pfizer paid a $US1 billion fine after the Department of Justice alleged it promoted four drugs, including Lyrica, for conditions that they were not medically indicated for and paid doctors kickbacks for prescribing them. Pfizer also sponsors major medical societies that represent doctors who prescribe Lyrica. One body that Pfizer supports is the College of Anaesthetists, our peak body for pain medicine. Its most-recent pain management evidence guidance is used by doctors around Australia to help people with acute pain. Pfizer put $25,000 toward the printing of that guidance document, and also supports the societys annual scientific meeting, annual refresher day course and the facultys spring meeting. Including the printing costs, the college has received $199,470 from Pfizer in the last three years. An association between the college and the healthcare industry does not imply endorsement of products or services, a spokeswoman for the society told The Age. All funding was at arm's length. "The college is meticulous in its approach to managing real or perceived conflicts of interest." The lead author of that guidance document has given Pfizer-sponsored speeches about Lyrica, although the company did not directly pay him to speak. The guidelines recommend pregabalin. Pfizers network of sales representatives also swung into action. In LinkedIn posts, several Pfizer sales representatives brag about their successes selling Lyrica and getting it onto hospital "formularies" - the hospital's stock of default drugs. "I successfully achieved Lyrica formulary listings in the following hospitals by getting local Specialists to champion the listing," said one. "I know what it takes to get formulary of your product portfolio." That salesman also boasted that he specialised in "GP surgery lunch meetings". "Lyrica PBS listing March 2012 with growth over 500%," he wrote. In Australia, drug companies are not allowed to directly advertise drugs to consumers a prohibition designed to stop money influencing treatment decisions. Instead, Pfizer rolled out a nerve-pain awareness campaign, suggesting to people with pain that wont go away that it may be something called nerve pain. If this is you, ask your doctor about nerve pain today," the ads said. Pfizer's spokesman categorically denied any link between the nerve-pain awareness campaign and Lyrica. In just six months in 2014, the awareness campaign had 24.1 million impressions, according to Pfizers own data. Display advertising on the web reached another 2.1 million people. In 2012-13, doctors wrote 322,078 pregabalin scripts. In 2014-15, they wrote 2.69 million. Professor Chris Maher. Credit:Janie Barrett They got a direct-to-consumer marketing program. Then you could fill in a form online to check your symptoms, and theyd say youve got neuropathic back pain, go see your doctor for some Lyrica, says Professor Chris Maher, a University of Sydney researcher and one of the worlds top back pain experts. So they created this market for this medication. "The research on effectiveness, and other research on dependence and harms, would suggest if we had our time again we would have been wiser not to go down this path." Doctors consider sudden withdrawal from pregabalin to be unsafe. If you are considering changing your dose, you are advised to see a doctor. The Premier, Ms Berejiklian, campaigned strongly against the Shooters, warning that they were a "dangerous party" that wanted to give weapons to children and weaken gun laws. Loading Dubbo, where former deputy Nationals leader and Police Minister Troy Grant is retiring, was also "extremely tight", according to a senior Nationals source. The independent candidate in Dubbo, Mathew Dickerson, was ahead in the count on Saturday night. The Coalition only held a six-seat majority going into the election, and up until the final published poll of the campaign, it was deadlocked 50:50 with Labor. But Labor sources on Saturday night said that Opposition leader Michael Daley's final campaign week, which saw him having to defend comments he made about Asian students as well as a woeful appearance in a live TV debate, cruelled their chances of winning more seats. A senior Labor source said: "This is disappointing. This is what happens when you have a shocking final week." Another said: "This is bad. No other way to describe it." The Opposition's treasury spokesman, Ryan Park, said the party would need to do some serious soul-searching over the coming weeks. "The result tonight is not as good as what we would have liked. No point sugar-coating it. That's the truth and all of us have a responsibility to have a look at the campaign, what worked well, what we could have done better," Mr Park said. NSW Opposition Leader Michael Daley with his Deputy Penny Sharpe and wife Christina as he concedes the NSW state election. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer Speaking at the Coogee Bay Hotel on Saturday, Mr Daley said he would continue on as leader. He thanked his family, candidates, the party, and the 22,000 volunteers - "you beautiful people in red T-shirts" - for their efforts during the campaign. The result came after early exit polling from the day had the Coalition and Labor at 50:50, with minority government still likely. But as the night unfolded, it became clear that Labor had collapsed. Speaking on the ABC, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the result demonstrated the "positive campaign Gladys Berejiklian has run". "I think what Gladys has been able to successfully do in this election is talking about the other things, the significant infrastructure, that we're building across the state and the importance of that," Mr Perrottet said. "If you look at where the Liberal Party is across the country right now, this appears early on to be a very, very positive result." Trent Zimmerman, the Liberal federal member for North Sydney, said: "After the Victorian election, this will be a huge morale boost, we've turned a corner." Loading In claiming victory in his seat of Monaro, Nationals leader John Barilaro said he was lost for words. "Can I say I am humbled by the people of Monaro to put trust in me again. It's been a mighty effort for the past four years. This electorate, the community I represent, had to share me with the rest of the state and regional NSW," he said. Mr Barilaro's seat is one of the Nationals most marginal and the party feared it could have lost as many four seats. But it has failed to pick up Ballina, which it had its sights on. The Greens retained Ballina. Ms Berejiklian, who took over as premier from Mike Baird in 2017, is the state's second female premier but in retaining government, she becomes the first to win an election. Labor frontbencher Jodi McKay was circumspect as the predictions for the Coalition retaining government became stronger. "It's a disappointing result for us, but I also think this is not a victory that the government can crow without when you ... look at the seats that they are likely to lose," she told ABC TV. Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell of the Cold Case Investigation Team said police were confident the renewed focus could lead to a breakthrough in the case. Despite 40 years passing, we remain committed to solving this case, bringing those responsible to justice and ultimately providing closure to the victims families, she said. We have reviewed thousands of pieces of information provided to police over the years, however, today we are launching a fresh appeal to encourage new witnesses and those who have already spoken to police to make contact with us." Ms Edwards was a trainee medical psychologist from Dandenong in Victoria. Mr Twaddle and Mr Thomson were both New Zealanders who had arrived in Australia less than two years before their murders. The two men had spent the months preceding their deaths, working around Alice Springs, Gordon as a cook and Tim as a teacher in the remote community of Hermannsburg. As their time in the outback was coming to an end, Mr Thomson's girlfriend Ms Edwards, flew up to the Red Centre to meet the pair and embark on a motorcycle adventure to Mount Isa, and then on to the east coast. Karen Edwards and her boyfriend Tim Thompson were holidaying in Mount Isa when they were murdered. The trio booked into the Moondarra Caravan Park on October 4 and the next morning they were seen leaving the site in a brown and white station wagon driven by another man. They had left their campsite intact with Mr Thomson's nine-month old doberman Tristie tied to a tree. The next day the gear and dog were gone. Karen, Gordon and Tim were never seen alive again. Police have never been able to find the car or driver but believe he was a friend or acquaintance of Tim Thompson. The man was described by police at the time as bearded, in his 20s with a medium build. A man of similar description had been seen visiting Mr Thomson at Hermannsburg, where he had been working as a teacher. We are urging anyone who may have seen the group travelling on their two distinct motorcycles through the Northern Territory and in the Mount Isa area in early October, 1978 to come forward," Detective Senior Sergeant Kentwell said. We are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have seen a male motorcyclist who befriended the group and joined them on their travels between Frewena and Mount Isa. Mr Thomson's brother David said he was a "kind and gentle and much loved brother and always obliging when asked for help in any way". "Tim invited me to go on the trip through the centre of Australia with him and Gordon and Karen but I was unable to go otherwise I would probably not be writing this letter," he said. "My parents were shattered by the murders and I still feel a numbness that I dont think will ever disappear." Mr Twaddle's brother John said Gordon was his best friend. "This horrible event has prayed on my mind for 40 years and I feel for the families of these three friends who were cold bloodily murdered," he said. "I feel that a result and conviction of the person (persons) responsible for these murders would bring some peace of mind and form some closure but it will never take away the pain of knowing how their lives ended far too soon in such a horrible way." "Finally, I would like to thank the Australian Police for continuing to investigate this case over such a long period of time." A man was described by police at the time as bearded, in his 20s with a medium build is believed to be the last person to see the trio alive. Credit: North West Star Police at the time had drawn links between the triple homicide and the unsolved murder of John Tzelaidis, 42, who was found dead a few months earlier near Karratha, Western Australia. Mr Tzelaidis was also killed by a .22 calibre bullet to the head. Others believe the crime is linked to the Hughenden disappearance of Tony Jones, presumed murdered, in November 1982. The most recent Victorian crime statistic, released on Thursday, show that stalking, harassment and threatening behaviour make up 15 per cent of "crimes against the person" offences. With every unwanted message, every contact, Jane felt a growing sense of dread and her mental health began to disintegrate. She took time off work, spending time on her familys farm where she felt safe. When she returned to Melbourne after a trip to the farm, her estranged husband, Carl*, called her to say their teenage son was being teased because his friends had found out about Janes fake dating profile. Distressed, Jane told him what had happened and begged for help. Carl suggested he could contact an acquaintance who might be able to pinpoint the sender. In hindsight, eight years on, Jane wishes his uncharacteristic generosity had planted a seed of doubt. But he was the father of their son. She trusted him. During their marriage Carl had never been physically violent towards Jane or their son. But he regularly undermined her and questioned her ability to handle simple daily tasks. Carl told Jane his contact had traced her online stalker and discovered it was someone she had known years earlier. He boasted hed taken care of it and told her not to contact the police, saying they couldnt be trusted. He offered to drive her to the increasing number of appointments she needed to manage her distress, confusion and mental health. One night, Jane heard noises outside her unit. Shaking with terror, she called Carl for help. He came over and reassured her she could depend on him. For their sons sake, he said, they should get back together. But when Jane told Carl she wanted a divorce, his behaviour grew increasingly bizarre. First, he told her he had been confronted by the person responsible for her bogus online profile in a supermarket. The person had allegedly assaulted Carl and claimed Jane was free to date anyone she wanted, he said. Jane, deeply stressed and worried about the safety of their son, went with Carl to the police to report the incident. A few weeks later Carl said he was so upset by the stalking he had quit work and wanted to move in with her. He suggested he could monitor her phone and computer for further emails and protect her from any men who turned up wanting sex. But when Jane told Dr Warren, the forensic psychologist considered Carls behaviour with the expertise of someone familiar with stalking. She urged Jane to be careful of her ex-husband and to go to the police. It wasnt until a police officer told Jane he believed Carl was her stalker that her ex-husbands edifice of deceit the thousands of abusive emails, the terrorism through elaborate pantomimes and fantasies was fully exposed. She realised Carl was the person outside her flat that night when she called him in a panic for help. I had a sense of absolute betrayal. This was a high trust relationship, says Jane. And it was gut-wrenching to think how I supported him when I thought he was a victim. The fear I regularly had when the stalking was happening, the immense terror, was what psychological violence does. Carl was creating scenarios that would mean he could rescue Jane, be the knight in shining armour and create dependency, Dr Warren says. A common motive for stalking by an ex-partner is to try and create reasons for reconciliation. Another motive is to exact revenge for leaving. Its not uncommon for people to oscillate between them. Carl was charged with stalking and breaching a family violence intervention order. He pleaded guilty and served over a year in prison. As part of his sentence Carl received specialist psychological treatment to try and prevent him harassing Jane upon release. For Jane, the emotional and financial burden has often been difficult to bear. She has had to relocate many times, change her name, reduce her work hours and install CCTV cameras. Her son has moved schools as he was unable to cope with the teasing. She has spent thousands of dollars on specialist services. After a quiet period, the emails resumed, though her workplace filters them and she no longer has to see them. Police are investigating. Dr Warren says Janes case highlights how isolated incidents, like sending a terse email, may not seem like a harmful interaction. But when contextualised as a pattern of repeated and unwanted intrusions, the potential for trauma is clear. People in Janes situation can seek a civil intervention, like an intervention order, or criminal charges but neither guarantee the behaviour will stop. In rare cases even prison terms fail to deter the most persistent stalking perpetrators, Dr Warren says. The Catholic Archdiocese of Perth released a lengthy statement on Saturday to the media about the case. In the statement Reverend Timothy Costelloe said on late Thursday evening, he received a text message from the Vicar General of the Archdiocese asking him to contact him urgently. "I rang him immediately. The Vicar General informed me that Fr Tran had died earlier that day and that it appeared he may have taken his own life after being confronted by allegations of the sexual abuse of a young teenage girl," the Archbishop of Perth said. "I did not know at that time who had confronted him - the police, the complainant's family or someone else - but I was informed that the police had been at the Armadale presbytery at some time during the day and had searched Fr Tran's room. "My understanding now is that this took place after Fr Tran's body had been found." Reverend Costelloe said on Friday Auxiliary Bishop Donald Sproxton went to the Armadale parish to provide support to the assistant priest and to the parish and school communities. "After informing the staff in my own office of Fr Tran's death, I went to the Whitford parish to provide what support I could there," he said. "Because the facts surrounding this tragic event were not clear to me at that time, we simply informed people that Fr Tran had died suddenly the day before and that we presumed his death would be investigated by the Coroner, which is the normal practice in these circumstances. "I was not seeking to hide anything. I could not share information which I had not yet been able to verify." Reverend Costelloe said the family of the young girl involved had done the right thing in ensuring the matter was investigated by the police. "Had we been contacted by the police we would have cooperated fully, as we always do," he said. "The Church in the Archdiocese of Perth has very clear protocols and procedures for dealing with these matters, and we follow them. "This news is heart-breaking for everyone involved. The young girl who with her family found the courage to go to the police must be supported in every way, and the Archdiocese stands ready to help in whatever way we can. "The parish communities of Armadale and Whitford, and the school communities with which Fr Tran was involved, will be especially dismayed and disoriented following this news. "The clergy of the Archdiocese, already suffering so much because of the terrible sexual abuse crisis in the Church, will struggle to know how to manage their own shock and disappointment while trying to provide what support they can for their people. "I remain committed to doing everything I can to eradicate this evil from the Church in this Archdiocese." A young woman has told WAtoday that her partner found Father Joseph's body in Southern River about 5pm on Thursday. "He was at the back of our property, his car was there and he was about 20m from his car," she said. "I called triple 000, I reported it and I had to make a statement to the police. "They (the police) blocked my street off for a few hours. Pheu Thai, the party likely to win the highest number of seats and which is aligned with exiled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, urged its supporters to vote for it in a landslide so it can "be the core of the next government". That seemed to be an acknowledgment that unlike in 2001 and 2011, when parties loyal to Thaksin won general elections before being deposed in coups, this time around Pheu Thai won't be able to govern in its own right. Volunteers for the Future Foward party rally in Bangkok. Credit:Amilia Rosa Next door to the Pheu Thai rally, the Future Forward party, which is led by the charismatic, photogenic and social-media-friendly 40-year-old billionaire Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, was hailed by thousands of Thais as the face of democratic change. Thanathorn told the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age he was "very confident" his party would pick up seats across the country, and not just in its base of Bangkok, and set out three key goals. "The first mission is to stop the continuation of the NCPO [the National Council for Peace and Order military junta] regime. Mission number two is to amend the constitution of 2017 and, number three, its about annulling the legacy of the military junta," he said. "These are the three things we wouldnt compromise. Other things we can talk. But these three conditions are our principles. Dont lose your principles when you are talking about forming a government." A total of 52 million Thais are eligible to vote on Sunday, including an estimated 7.1 million people who will be able to vote for the first time. Already there are concerns about how impartial the Electoral Commission has been, and allegations of vote buying have surfaced too. Future Forward is hugely popular with young voters, according to political analysts, and is likely to win between 20 and 30 seats of the 150 proportional representation seats in the lower house. It may also pick up a handful of the 350 constituency seats in the lower house. Even with Pheu Thai expected to win large swaths of seats in its strongholds in the north and north-east of the country - and even if Future Forward and other opposition parties exceed expectations - it's unlikely the opposition parties will be able to combine to claim the majority of 376 seats needed to select the prime minister in a joint, 750-member sitting of the two houses. Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a politics professor at Bangkok's Chulalongkorn University, said the most likely result was a "status quo upgrade". "There will be elections, with some semblance of popular legitimacy. But the realty is the junta regime will likely continue," he said. Prayut's party is expected to win 60 to 80 seats, Thitinan said, but they "should be doing so much better - they have all the organs of the state at their disposal''. Prayut and his Palang Pracharat party will therefore fall short of the 126 seats needed in the lower house to install him as prime minister (assuming the handpicked 250 senators all vote for the regime candidate). Loading That could leave the royalist Democrats playing king maker - though whether that means the Democrats back Prayut to be prime minister or manage to install their own leader, Abhisit, remains to be seen. That also means a situation could emerge where the governing party is in the minority in the lower house, and the opposition parties holds a majority of seats - opening up the prospect of a censure or even no-confidence vote almost immediately. Perhaps 90 per cent of the results will be known within hours of the polls closing on Sunday, though the official results won't be declared until May 9. And with the deck stacked to try to avoid another landslide win for the opposition, the political horse trading over who will emerge as a compromise candidate will be fierce. Deadly Benzene Threatens Houston - Thank Big Oil One Headline Reads: Cancer Causing Cloud Hovers Near 4th-Largest U.S. City Last Sunday, March 17, 2019; a fire broke out at a chemical storage facility in Deer Park, Texas, less than 20 miles southeast of Houston. The facility owned by Intercontinental Terminals is a bulk liquid storage terminal that provides services to the petrochemical industry (the petroleum oil industry). The fire reignited on Thursday, March 21st, and again on Friday, March 22nd. The big concern to the millions of inhabitants in that area of Texas are the chemicals that have been released into the air. Although all of the chemicals are poison, the worst of the chemicals is benzene. Benzene is extremely dangerous. This isn't a situation where some people say it is, and other say it isn't, it is. SEE ALSO: New fire erupts at Deer Park plant as leaking toxins close Ship Channel. In September 1948, the American Petroleum Institute published a "Benzene Toxicology Review" in which they themselves admitted that the amount of benzene that can safely be present in the air we breathe is zero percent (0%). Benzene is in gasoline, it is one of the so-called aromatics that is present in all gasoline (the other two are toluene and xylene, also known poisons). Every gallon of gasoline contains about 25% aromatics. Aromatics are used to raise the octane levels in gasoline and to quiet engine knock. Ethanol also raise octane levels and quiet engine knock, but does not create the same health risks when used as an engine fuel. The oil industry and its supporters would like to remove all ethanol from gasoline sold in America, and add more aromatics to replace the ethanol. Ethanol-free gasoline would contain upwards of 40% aromatics. Some so-called environmentalists also campaign against the use of ethanol in gasoline, but when questioned about the deadly potential from increased aromatics they go silent. All internal combustion engines can be optimized to run on nearly pure ethanol without the need for any gasoline to denaturize it, and without the need of benzene, toluene, or xylene to increase the octane level. Coincidentally, last Sunday, March 17th, a railway tanker car filled with gasoline sprung a leak and exploded into flames in downtown Los Angeles. The black clouds could be seen for miles and miles around the LA basin area. Los Angeles is America's 2nd largest city. TheAutoChannel.com published this story about that incident: Oil Industry Presents Los Angeles with Unique St. Patrick's Day Gift - An Exploding Gasoline Tanker. After three years of providing discount goods to Steinbach and area shoppers, MennoMart is closing up shop. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Stay informed The latest updates on the novel coronavirus and COVID-19 delivered to your inbox every weeknight. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. After three years of providing discount goods to Steinbach and area shoppers, MennoMart is closing up shop. The not-for-profit organization, located at 62 Life Sciences Parkway, was the brainchild of Bob Schinkel who felt that there was need for an outlet where local residents and businesses could donate goods which would be repurposed and put to use instead of going into the landfill and where all the profits would go to support only local charities. The business had hoped to be able to offer donation receipts in exchange for goods and had applied to the Canada Revenue Agency for official charity status. The application process took too long, MennoMart said in a release this week, and was ultimately declined. Without the benefit of charitable status businesses were less inclined to donate product, it said. The business is liquidating all existing stock and fixtures before its lease expires at the end of May. Written by: Diana West On March 19, 2019, James Comey tweeted the message above, harkening to his recent visit to his alma mater for a talk about "integrity and politics" -- as if ... but no, I will not descend into sputtering. On March 21, 2019, Comey published an op-ed in the New York Times in advance of the release of the Mueller Report. He wrote: I have no idea whether the special counsel will conclude that Mr. Trump knowingly conspired with the Russians in connection with the 2016 election or that he obstructed justice with the required corrupt intent. I also dont care. Come again? If the special counsel were to charge that there existed a conspiracy between the sitting president and the Russian government, the former FBI Director doesn't care? Is that law and order and defending the Constitution speaking? Of course not. It's just James Comey. Comey goes on to taunt all readers not impervious to facts and able to make sense of statutes (but long nutsy-cuckoo over the non-relevance of reality and law both when it comes to The Clintons, the Anti-Trump Conspiracy and other Deep State obscenities) by lecturing: The rule of law depends upon fair administration of justice, which is rooted in complete and unbiased investigation. If I were driving, that is where I would run off the road. But on to the point of Comey's piece. Regardless of even the worst case scenario still possibly to unfold -- namely, that the special counsel might present evidence proving the president conspired with the Kremlin to win the White House (pure, Russian-sourced disinformation bought and paid for by Hillary and the DNC) -- Comey declares, special-counsel-report-unseen, that he doesn't want Congress to impeach Trump under any circumstances. Why not? Because if Mr. Trump were removed from office by Congress, a significant portion of this country would see this as a coup... And a significant portion of this country would be right. But angry Deplorables are not what the forces of Comey wish to face as they seek to regain the White House in 2020. Behold the point of political pivot in "Trump-Russia." From 2016-2019, "Trump-Russia" was about weakening Trump; for the balance of his term until Election Day, it's about subduing his base. Always, the ends justify the means, which is Comey's creed. I know this having built an ideological profile of James Comey in my new release, The Red Thread: A Search for Ideological Drivers Inside the Anti-Trump Conspiracy. Below is an excerpt from my book about Comey's views of "the Christian in politics" -- a political actor sans integrity, sans morality, driven to amass power and establish "justice," which in Comey-speak, is regulated, meted out, restricted and controlled by the government. And yes, that sounds a lot more like "socialist legality'" than anything resembling US constitutional law. An orangutan found in a suitcase at Ngurah Rai Airport on March 22. (BKSDA) Air Passenger Caught With Drugged Orangutan in His Suitcase An airline passenger tried to smuggle an orangutan out of Indonesia in a suitcase, but was caught and arrested as he tried to board his flight. Indonesian authorities said that they had stopped Russian Andrei Zhestkov, 27, as tried to get through security with a 2-year-old orangutan drugged on allergy tablets. Zhestkov said that the orangutan had been bought in a street market in Java for $3,000, according to a statement by Bali conservation officials. He had wanted to take it back as a pet. The 2-year-old male sleeping orangutan was revealed at a pre-screening security X-Ray at Ngurah Rai Airports international departure terminal on the evening of March 22, according to officials. At first, we thought it was a monkey, Dewa Delanata, head of the airports quarantine office told the Jakarta Post. The officers were afraid to open the basket, as they thought the monkey would be aggressive and run loose in the departure area. When it was taken to the examination room and we opened it, we were shocked to find an orangutan, he said. The drowsy ape was inside a rattan case inside the suitcase. The also found two live geckos and five lizards. According to authorities, Zhestkova had more antihistamine drugs in his suitcase, which he intended to administer on arrival in Korea before taking a further flight home to Russia. Zhestkov could face a sentence of up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to $7,000. The endangered Sumatran orangutan is a protected species, protected under Indonesian law, which, according to the Tribune, states it is illegal to capture, injure, kill, store, possess, maintain, transport and trade or trade protected animals/animals or other parts in life or death. But orangutans face worse risks than being smuggled in a suitcase as potential pets. As their jungle habitat shrinks across Indonesia, the great apes are increasingly pushed into contact with humans, and sometimes killed by farmers or landowners who say that they ruin their crops. Earlier this month, a 30-year-old orangutan was found severely injured on a farm in Sumatra, Indonesia, according to local reports, together with her month-old baby. She was taken to an animal rescue center where X-rays revealed she had 74 air rifle bullets in her body and multiple fractures. The infant had not suffered any injury but had been unable to breastfeed from his mother, and later died from malnutrition as his mother underwent a series of operations. But his mother, named Hope, is now slowly on the mend. The conservation center said it has treated more than 15 orangutans with a total of nearly 500 air gun pellets in their bodies over the last 10 years. It is unclear exactly the reasons that Hope was shot. Last year four men were arrested over the killing of an orangutan shot some 130 times with an air rifle. They said it ruined their crops at a pineapple and palm oil plantation. Orangutans are also at risk from poachers, with locals taking babies as pets, or selling or eating the older animals. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian speaks to dignitaries and members of the Invictus Team Australia Squad at the official launch at Admiralty House on Jun. 7, 2017 in Sydney, Australia. (Toby Zerna/Getty Images) Berejiklian Government to Return in NSW, Experts Say The coalition government led by Gladys Berejiklian has been returned to power for a third term in NSW following Saturdays state election, Antony Green says. She is the first woman to be popularly elected premier in NSW history. Happy Election Day everyone. This election is a choice between my Lib/Nat team delivering more jobs, infrastructure, hospitals and schools to take the pressure off you or Labor that wants to increase taxes, cancel projects and bring NSW to a standstill like they did last time. pic.twitter.com/8dxKXts3k4 Gladys Berejiklian (@GladysB) March 22, 2019 ABC election analyst Antony Green says Labor cannot win enough seats to force a change in government. On the numbers were seeing, Labor just cant get more seats than the coalition on the numbers weve got, he said. Although the Berejiklian government suffered swing against it at Saturdays NSW state election, it hasnt been enough to force it out of power. ABC election analyst Antony Green is predicting the coalition has won 45 seats, Labor 31, the Greens three, the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party two, with three independents, with nine of the seats still in doubt at 8:30 p.m. All set to go. pic.twitter.com/siPjlBOqQG Antony Green (@AntonyGreenABC) March 23, 2019 On these numbers theres no way Labor will end up with more seats than the coalition, Green said. But the question is whether the coalition get a majority government or not. Labor has claimed a win for sitting MP Jodi McKay in the ultra-marginal seat of Strathfield, while Jenny Leong has held onto the seat of Sydney for the Greens. Some seats have been called early, with the Shooters MP Phil Donato retaining Orange, while independent Greg Piper will return as the MP for Lake Macquarie. The Shooters, Fishers and Farmers vote may also push the Nationals out of Murray, Barwon and Upper Hunter. Nationals leader John Barilaro said he expected some swing to the Shooters, but was confident the coalition partner would hold its seats. When people feel anxious in the regions, theyll look at their vote going elsewhere. The Shooters have been out there as an alternate voice, he told the ABC. Im not sure if weve done enough to hold it, but Im still confident that we went into today and we can hold all our seats. Counting started in the knife-edge NSW election after polls closed at 6pm following a three-week campaign. A Nine/Galaxy exit poll indicates the Berejiklian coalition government will be returned, but in minority. A special Newspoll, published earlier in The Weekend Australian, suggested the coalition is ahead of Labor 51-49 on a two-party preferred basis. Ms Berejiklian and Labor leader Michael Daley spent Saturday blitzing voting booths in Sydney, trying to win over voters. More than four million people were expected to cast their votes on Saturday, at more than 2,200 polling booths around the state. Nearly 1.1 million people took advantage of early voting, with about one-in-five making their decision at pre-poll centres or via the post, internet or telephone. The Liberal-Nationals went into Saturdays election with 52 seats in the lower house but it needs to only lose six seats to relinquish its majority. Labor needed to pick up 13 seats to clinch an outright majority. Casey Anthony leaves the United States Courthouse in Tampa, Fla., with a U.S. Marshal after a bankruptcy hearing, on March 4, 2013. (AP Photo/Brian Blanco) Casey Anthony Allegedly Back to Partying, Report Says Editors note: The original headline described Anthony as an accused child murderer when she was acquitted of the crime in 2011. The Epoch Times regrets this error. Casey Anthony, who was found not guilty in the death of her 2-year-old daughter, is allegedly partying more and is trying to put her past behind her, according to reports. According to People magazine, the 33-year-old is trying to return to her busy social life before she became the target of scorn across the United States about a decade earlier. She was acquitted of murder in 2011 over the death of daughter Caylee, and since then, has tried to stay out of the public eye. Anthony is currently living at the Florida home of a private investigator who had worked as an attorney on her case. A source close to Anthony said, She believes she has done her penance, the magazine reported. And now shes partying. Shes dating around, meeting new people, and finally creating a social life, the unnamed person said. Quoting Anthony, the source said her old life during the trial, her relationship with her parents, and the disappearance of her daughter was a nightmare, and the person said that she lives in denial a lot of the time, pretending that everything that happened, didnt happen. The source told the outlet that she used to avoid people but now she calls them psycho haters, and is defiant about them. She says things like ugh, they just need to get over me. In 2008, Caylee disappeared, going missing for about a month in a widely publicized incident before Anthony reported the toddler missing. Caylees missing, Cindy Anthony, Caseys mother, told a 911 dispatcher in 2008 during a phone call, Reuters reported in 2011. It smells like theres been a dead body in the damn car. Casey also told the dispatcher why the child was not reported missing sooner. Ive been looking for her and just gone through other resources to find her, which was stupid, she said. On the same day of the call, she told detectives her daughter was kidnapped by a babysitter. Her defense lawyer said Caylee drowned in the backyard pool and was discovered by Caseys father. No one reported the toddlers death immediately, according to the Reuters report. The girls remains were discovered in a wooded area about 1,500 feet from Anthonys parents home. She believes she has done her penance. And now shes partying." People 2019322 Several years later, when she went on trial, tens of millions of people watched. Prosecutors could prove that Anthony lied to officials but could not prove she killed her daughter. The government failed to establish the cause of death for the girl, and they could not find Caseys DNA on duct tape that was believed to have suffocated the girl, Fox News reported. Anthony was controversially acquitted of manslaughter and murder charges in July 2011 but still convicted on four counts of lying to law enforcement. Fox also reported she now works for Patrick McKenna, a private investigator who worked on her defense team. Lying About Everything Earlier this year, a former roommate of Anthony claimed the woman is lying about everything regarding her daughter. Clint House, who claimed to be her roommate when the girl went missing, had a different view on Anthonys behavior during and after the girl went missing back in 2008. 'She's lying about everything' Daily Mail 2018128 Shes lying about everything, he said in an episode of Casey Anthony: Her Friends Speak on the Reelz network, reported The Daily Mail. That interview, where she says she sleeps pretty good at night, are you kidding me? If I was put on trial for killing my kid, and I was acquitted because I didnt do it, as soon as I walked out those doors at the courthouse, I would be on a manhunt trying to find out who killed my kid. I wouldnt sleep again until I found out who killed my kid. That says everything you need to know, he added. A vehicle of paramilitary police is seen near smoke following an explosion at a chemical industrial park in Yancheng City, Jiangsu Province, China on March 21, 2019. (Stringer via Reuters) China Chemical Plant Blast Kills 62, Injures 640 YANCHENG, ChinaAn explosion at a pesticide plant in eastern China has killed 62 people, state media said late on March 22, with 34 people critically injured and 28 missing, the latest casualties in a series of industrial accidents that has angered the public. The blast occurred on Thursday at the Chenjiagang Industrial Park in the city of Yancheng, in Jiangsu Province, and the fire was finally brought under control at 3 a.m. local time on Friday, state television said. Survivors were taken to 16 hospitals with 640 people being treated for injuries, state media had said earlier. The fire at a plant owned by the Tianjiayi Chemical Company spread to neighboring factories. Children at a nearby kindergarten were also hurt, media said. The cause of the explosion is being investigated, but the companywhich produces more than 30 organic chemical compounds, some highly flammablehas been cited and fined for work safety violations in the past, the China Daily said. Police, some wearing face masks, sealed off roads to the plant. The blast smashed windows in the village of Wangshang 1.2 miles away, and stunned villagers likened it to an earthquake. There was one loud bang followed by a long rumble, one, who gave his family name as Wang, told Reuters. All the windows were smashed. I went to have a look. Near the site there was blood everywhere. People were crushed. The village stands beside a murky mildewed pond and was built in 2013 for people displaced by the construction of the industrial park where the blast took place. Dozens of Wangshang residents work at the park, and many have not come home. Many buildings had broken windows and further structural damage, but villagers have not been evacuated. Unlike the police on site, none of them wore masks and had not been advised to. The Jiangsu environmental protection bureau said late on Friday that a team of 126 inspectors found various degrees of contamination in local water samples, with nitrobenzene concentrations exceeding standards at one location. Some volatile organic chemical measurements far exceeded surface water standards15 times over in one case. Concentrations of acetone and chloroform outside the blast zone were also within normal limits, it added. Jiangsu will carry out inspections chemical producers and warehouses, an emergency notice said on Friday. The notice, published on the news website of the provinces Communist Party, said the government would shut down chemical firms found not to be complying with regulations on dangerous chemicals. Public anger over safety standards has grown in China over industrial accidents, ranging from mining disasters to factory fires, that have marred three decades of swift economic growth. In 2015, 165 people were killed in explosions at a chemical warehouse in the northern city of Tianjin, one of the worlds busiest ports, which is not far from the capital, Beijing. Those blasts were big enough to be seen by satellites and register on earthquake sensors. Despite repeated government pledges to tighten safety, disasters have hit chemical plants in particular, with 23 people killed in November in a series of blasts during the delivery of a flammable gas at a chemical maker. By David Stanway Eco-Conscious Hawaii Could Become First US State to Ban Plastics at Restaurants The content is not available due to expiration. Federal Judge Blocks Kentucky Law That Banned Abortion on Basis of Sex, Race, Disability A federal judge blocked a Kentucky law shortly after it was signed into law that would have stopped women from getting abortions on the basis of sex, race, or disability of the unborn baby. House Bill 5 was passed by the state Senate 32-4 earlier in March after the House passed it 67-25 in late February. It was signed by Gov. Matt Bevin on March 19. U.S. District Judge David Hale late March 20 ordered Kentucky not to enforce the law. The order came five days after Hale blocked Kentucky from instituting another law it passed, Senate Bill 9 that would have banned abortion once a fetal heartbeat was detected, which is typically about six weeks after conception. Hales orders were reported by the Louisville Courier-Journal. They were not made public and it wasnt clear on what basis he blocked the laws from taking effect. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed challenges to both laws, asking Hale to block them until he decided whether or not they are constitutional. The group claimed that women have a right to have an abortion and that the bills infringed upon that right. In a response filed in the U.S. District Court in Lousiville on Tuesday published by WYMT, Bevins office said that HB 5 bans eugenics-based abortions. Imagine that a woman in Kentucky wants an abortion merely because she wants a girl rather than a boy. Or imagine that the woman wants an abortion because she does not want her child to be a certain race or nationality. Or imagine that the woman wants an abortion because her unborn child has a nonlethal disability like Down syndrome. Until now, abortions like these have been legal in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, wrote Adam Meier, secretary of Health and Family Services in Kentucky, in the filing. EMW [Womens Surgical Center in Louisville] and its abortionists have responded with a novel claim: Women have a constitutional right to undergo race-based abortions, gender-based abortions, and disability-based abortions. In (the) plaintiffs view, somewhere in the Fourteenth Amendments penumbra lies a secret protection of eugenics, Meier added. Eugenics is the practice of attempting to improve the human population by blocking the births of people considered to be inferior, including, historically, certain races. Republican Rep. Melinda Gibbons Prunty, the bills lead sponsor, said after the state House passed the bill that abortions in such cases are reminiscent of the social evil of eugenics. In its filing, the ACLU wrote: Plaintiffs will prevail on their claim that the Bans are unconstitutional under 46 years of Supreme Court precedent, beginning with Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973), which unequivocally holds that the State may not ban abortion before the point of fetal viability, regardless of the womans reason for her decision. The Bans will cause immediate irreparable harm to Plaintiffs and most of their patients by criminalizing abortion, it added. But Kentucky officials said that the plaintiffs were not able to establish House Bill 5 as unconstitutional. Roe protects a womans right at certain stages of pregnancy to choose whether to have a child, not to decide whether to have a child with attributes that the woman finds desirable, Meier said. In light of their weak merits arguments, Plaintiffs also cannot prove irreparable harm, nor can they establish that the public interest favors temporarily enjoining a law overwhelmingly passed in bipartisan fashion by the Peoples representatives. Plaintiffs also cannot overcome the fact that enjoining House Bill 5 will cause substantial harm to othersprimarily unborn children but also the medical profession. From NTD.com with reporting by Zack Stieber. Ghana Bus Collision Kills Dozens: Police DAKARAt least 57 people were killed and dozens of others injured after two buses collided in central Ghana, according to authorities. The crash took place early on Friday morning near the town of Kintampo, around 330 km (205 miles) from the capital Accra, a police officer told Reuters via telephone. Bus disaster in Ghana: At least 60 deaths in frontal collisions after the driver & # 39; fell asleep & # 39; https://t.co/wtNkBQ7DI5 pic.twitter.com/rTZnriCqQL XpressNews (@xpressnewsasia) March 22, 2019 The buses had a combined total of 108 passengers at the point of departure, according to a statement from the National Road Safety Commission (NRSC). The injured are receiving attention at Kintampo South District Hospital, located at Jema, Techiman Holy Family Hospital and Wenchi Methodist Hospital. At least 60 killed in Ghana bus collision https://t.co/FvPJ1GYowa pic.twitter.com/bi90zm3hSh Jepang.net (@jepangnet) March 23, 2019 Footage broadcast by private television station TV3 Ghana showed the charred remains of one bus that caught fire after the collision, and a red VVIP-branded bus strewn on its side. Reports blame the crash on a head-on collision. #Ghana Des dizaines de personnes ont ete tuees apres la collision de deux bus dans le centre du pays pic.twitter.com/lkMdPyBEhQ Rebecca Rambar (@RebeccaRambar) March 23, 2019 Road accidents are common in Ghana. The NRSC recorded more than 12,000 crashes between January and November last year, leading to the loss of around 2,100 lives. Reuters Contributed to this report. General Motors Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra announces a major investment focused on the development of GM future technologies at the GM Orion Assembly Plant in Lake Orion, Michigan on March 22, 2019. (Rebecca Cook/Reuters) GM Confirms Plans to Build New EV, Invest $300 Million in Michigan Plant General Motors Co confirmed on March 22 it will invest $300 million in a suburban Detroit assembly plant, adding 400 jobs to its workforce to build a new Chevrolet electric vehicle. The largest U.S. automaker has come under heavy criticism from President Donald Trump in recent days over its decision to end production at its Lordstown, Ohio, assembly plant earlier this month. GM officials said the announcement was planned well before Trumps series of GM tweets that started on March 16. Trump called GM CEO Mary Barra on March 17 to urge her to reverse the decision to end production at the Ohio plant. He then proceeded to slam the company in a speech in Ohio on March 20. Just spoke to Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors about the Lordstown Ohio plant. I am not happy that it is closed when everything else in our Country is BOOMING. I asked her to sell it or do something quickly. She blamed the UAW Union I dont care, I just want it open! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 17, 2019 Barra, speaking to reporters after an event at the plant in Orion Township, outside Detroit, with Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) announcing the investment, said GM is focused on ensuring that all of the hourly workers at Lordstown find new jobs at other plants but she has shown no indication it will reverse course and reopen the Lordstown plant. She declined to say if she thought there was more tension between GM and Trump. We want to create jobs, good paying jobs, Barra said, saying her talks with Trump had a business focus. She said GM needs to remain strong in order to continue to add jobs. Reuters reported on Thursday about GMs investment plans for the plant. We stand strong in our commitment to an all-electric future and to #USManufacturing. Today, we announced a $300M investment and 400 new jobs for the production of a new @ChevyElectric at our Orion Assembly Plant. https://t.co/qSivM4mZXh pic.twitter.com/LD8YjTLX8b General Motors (@GM) March 22, 2019 GM said in 2018 it would end production at five North American assembly plants and eliminate about 15,000 jobs, prompting outrage and a two-day visit by Barra to Capitol Hill to answer questions about the job cuts. GM did not disclose the name or timing of the new GM EV but said it would be built on the same platform as the existing Chevrolet Bolt EV. GM did not disclose the name of the new EV model or the timing of production. The automaker said it is investing a total of $1.8 billion in its U.S. manufacturing operations this year, creating 700 new jobs, and supporting 28,000 jobs across six states. Additional product information and timing for the new Chevrolet EV will be released closer to production. $GM confirms plans to build new EV, invest $300 million in Michigan plant https://t.co/4qQjIgGnZe Investing.com Stocks (@InvestingStockz) March 22, 2019 Barra said after the event that GM supports the proposed United States, Mexico, and Canada Agreement and is making adjustments because we will comply with new rules requiring additional North American content. Reuters reported on March 21 that GM was initially considering to build the new EV in China. In February, GM disclosed that it had hired Ballard Partners, a lobbying firm run by Brian Ballard, a fundraiser for Trumps presidential campaign. The company has been eager to try to smooth over relations with the White House after Trump first began harshly attacking GM last year. By David Shepardson A man keeps tabs on the financial markets at the TMX Group in Torontos financial district in this file photo. The city is a hotbed for fintech activity that continues to evolve with tools like machine learning. (The Canadian Press/Darren Calabrese) How the Fintech Revolution Could Liberate Us The welfare state will lose to competitive governance Walmarts slogan is save money, live better. The worlds largest retailer, rivaled only by Amazon, does all it can to serve customers and better the competition. If nation-states are to survive amid rising competitive pressures, they will have to do the same: serve people as customers, not as subjects. That means better services at lower prices and not taking peoples money to give it to someone else. The redistributive welfare state is unsustainable and increasingly unenforceable, and not only because of aging populations and irreconcilable unfunded liabilities. It will go the way of the dodo, as voluntary charity rises to assist those with legitimate needs and frustrated taxpayers vote with their feet. The states that survive and thrive will be service providers that confine themselves to the protection of life, liberty, and property. Practically speaking, that means national defense, conflict resolution, police protection in public spaces, and key infrastructure, administered locally. Hans-Adam II, the reigning Prince of Liechtenstein, has foreseen and advocated for this transition in The State in the Third Millennium. Two major trends are facilitating the transition to classical-liberal limited government as we can see in Liechtenstein: (1) increased mobility for living and business and (2) a growing parallel economy that exists online and outside traditional financial institutions. These two trends mean more opportunity for jurisdictional arbitrage and agorism (decentralized disassociation from conventional politics). The Rise of the Digital Nomad Moving to yonder shores for better options is nothing new. However, when Harry Browne wrote the classic How I Found Freedom in an Unfree World in 1973, he could only have dreamed of 21st-century technology such as Airbnb, Turo, and online payments. Not only can we now move more easily, we need not stop. Our parents generation might shake their heads and wonder how a person can make a living through a computer from almost anywhere on earth. In the past two decades, this has become possible for almost anyone who takes the initiative, as has a travel-oriented lifestyle once limited to the most wealthy. The digital-nomad community is rapidly maturing, networking, advocating, and commanding more attention as a consumer base. One digital-nomad Facebook group, for example, has more than 100,000 members and describes itself as the worlds 200th nation. Some members have no tax residency and are permanent travelers. Forward-thinking nations cater to the wave of entrepreneurs and freelancers with convenient incorporation solutions. The Estonian government has e-residency, a new digital nation for online businesses to access EU financial and legal institutions. Even authoritarian regimes such as the United Arab Emirates are making changes and offering tax advantages to attract investors and entrepreneurs. Digital nomads can avoid many taxes outright. In the Americas alone, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama, and Paraguay have no income tax on foreign earnings. The Bahamas and a handful of other Caribbean islands have no income tax at all. You can enjoy such benefits by simply residing in these jurisdictions for a portion of each year, and at least 10 nations allow you to garner citizenship simply through investment. U.S. citizens face the complication of the Internal Revenue Service trying to tax them wherever they go, but even the land of the free is feeling the pinch. Despite a convoluted process, including an exit tax, the number of people renouncing citizenship has burgeoned in recent years. That includes high-profile cases such as Tina Turner, now in Switzerland, and Eduardo Saverin, the billionaire Facebook co-founder now in Singapore. The 2012 Saverin case was revealing because politicos quickly resorted to name calling. Rather than offer a better dealas President Donald Trump has done with companiesincumbents such as Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.) called Saverin a traitor and even sought to tax him more retroactively. This approach reinforced Saverins conviction that he was right to protect his wealth elsewhere. An Agorist Dream In The Social Singularity, Max Borders wrote that cryptocurrency and income tax cannot coexist. He is right: Aside from a few high-profile cases, the IRS has struggled, and largely failed, to tax gains on bitcoin and countless altcoins. Compliance complexity and IRS inability to evolve have led to mass non-reporting. A similar showdown is occurring with the peer-to-peer economy. As more people garner compensation without conventional salaries, they are not subject to direct withholding by conventional employers. A pivotal ingredient for wealth redistribution, tax on labor, is becoming harder to enforce. Even when cities such as Austin, Texas, ban Uber and Lyft, rogue apps and online communities fill the void and take their place. These agorists, who opt out of cartelized taxi services, embarrass inefficient and ineffective police who crack down on people for merely selling a ride. Still in their infancy, cryptocurrencies are here to stayaccepted by 14,000 vendors worldwide, up from 7,000 in 2016. A dozen cryptocurrencies have market capitalizations in excess of $1 billion, and 792 have more than $1 million. Many of these are so-called rubbishcoins in the making and will disappear. However, the array is a testament to innovation and dynamism. The designers are addressing the major shortcomings of bitcoin: price stability and costly transactions. Further, many of these new cryptocurrencies seek to replicate the anonymity of cash, notably monero and dash. This electronic cash, as described by Jerry Brito of the Coin Center, ought to be celebrated. It is a fundamental tool for individual privacy and autonomy; it checks both government overreach and the surveillance economy. These private currencies are just the start of the disruption and creative destruction taking place in finance. Even the CFA Institute and many graduate schools have incorporated distributed ledgerspopularized as blockchainsinto their curriculums. The dreamers pushing the frontiers, such as cybersecurity expert Juraj Bednar of the Institute for Cryptoanarchy, are building their crypto utopia or parallel economy outside legacy institutions. Those who criticize fintech decentralization allege it dislodges regulators and state social services. People can bypass the bureaucracy and demonstrate their case to willing donors through crowdfunding. Likewise, purveyors of new entrepreneurial endeavors can incorporate in financial havens and access major capital from Canada and the United States, without burdensome barriers to entry. The critics are spot on. Fintech advances are rendering the welfare state obsolete, but only because superior options are peacefully taking its place. Defenders of the status quo are lashing out with prohibitions and outlandish punishments, much like the taxi-cartel gangsters that harm Uber drivers and their cars. However, there will only be temporary setbacks, as the long-term trend is clear: meritocratic, competitive governments and laissez-faire economies that serve constituents, rather than the other way around. Fergus Hodgson is the founder and executive editor of Latin American intelligence publication Antigua Report. He is also the roving editor of Gold Newsletter and a research associate with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Introducing the Celestial Melody Collection of Music Scarves and Bookmarks A touch of everyday luxury, inspired by the ancient belief that music has the power to heal and harmonize, uplifting body and soul Remember watching Shen Yun and being transported to the expansive Mongolian grasslands on horseback? Or the delicate scenes of flowing Water Sleeves? Music is a huge part of the Shen Yun experience, and its the original orchestral music you hear in Shen Yuns dance performances that bring the color of ancient Chinese legends to life and transports us to another time and place. Many orchestras have tried to combine the elements of Western and Chinese music, and it almost always fails. What does it take to strike that delicate balance and get each element in the music just right? We might find a greater appreciation for cultural traditions as a whole when we dive into some of the deeper understandings of Chinese music. The ancient Chinese believed in harmony with the heavens, each other, and the world. Their music reflects this view. You might have heard of the Chinese theory of the five elementsnamely Earth, Wood, Metal, Water, and Firebut did you know that they correspond to the five notes on the ancient Chinese pentatonic scale? Traditional Chinese music is based on the concept of five elements and is also connected to the inner workings of our bodies. Each and every tone can positively improve circulation in one of our five internal or five sensory organs. The Chinese character for medicine actually comes from the character for music. The ancients believed that music had the power to harmonize ones soul in ways that medicine could not. Chinese medicine has identified five major soundsgong, shang, jue, zhi, and yueach of which has a different impact on ones internal organs and how they function. There is also a correlation between our organ systems and the five primary colors. Research shows that listening to certain kinds of music has various health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, stabilizing heart rate, relieving depression, and enhancing concentration and creativity, to name just a few. Shen Yuns composers take this ancient wisdom into account when they create each new piece of music. Not only is Shen Yun music a delight to hear, it embodies the ancient Chinese belief in the importance of harmony, and greater connections among mind, body, and everything around us. Having the chance to hear instruments thousands of years old, played in a way that fully celebrates and respects their cultural heritage, creates a profoundly fulfilling and joyful musical experience. An ideal opportunity is the Shen Yun Symphony Orchestra, which is currently touring internationally. Audience members will experience the distinct character of combined Eastern and Western instrumentation as never before, as well as thrilling instrumental and vocal solos. Two instruments regularly featured in Shen Yuns music are the pipa and the erhu. The pipa, or Chinese lute, is known as the king of Chinese instruments. The two-stringed erhu is sometimes called the two-stringed violin. Each is known for its distinctive sound and ability to express a wide array of emotions and colors. Inspired by these majestic instruments and this timeless wisdom, we introduce our Celestial Melody collection. The collection features exclusively designed silk charmeuse scarves and ornate 24-karat gold-plated bookmarksa touch of everyday luxury, and perfect gifts or stylish mementos that carry a harmonious and bright meaning. To learn more about Shen Yuns music, check out shenyun.com/learn DISCOVER THE NEW COLLECTION HERE. By Lin Shao, Contributing Writer Heavy smoke rises above the ISIS' last remaining position in the village of Baghouz, Syria, on March 18, 2019. (Delil Souleiman/AFP/Getty Images) ISIS is 100 Percent Eliminated: White House The territorial caliphate of the ISIS terror group has been 100 percent eliminated, the White House said on March 22. The Islamist caliphate controlled large swaths of land and millions of people in the Middle East during former President Barack Obamas time in office but, after President Donald Trump was sworn in, the military has focused on hammering the group. The White House press secretary made the elimination announcement to reporters flying on Air Force One. She showed two maps, one showing the territory that ISIS controlled several years ago, with the land shaded in red, and a second meant to indicate the present day that showed the region without any red. She announced that the territorial ISIS caliphate has been 100 percent eliminated in Syria, according to a pool reporter. She said that acting Department of Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan was on the plane and briefed the president on the situation. The plane touched down at Palm Beach International Airport in Florida just before noon. Her announcement comes one day after the final ISIS stronghold was reportedly liberated by American and allied forces, including the Syrian Democratic Forces. Ten minutes later, Trump deplaned and greeted supporters. He displayed the same maps, which were combined into a single map, telling them: Heres ISIS on Election Day and heres ISIS right now. .@PressSec says the territorial ISIS caliphate has been 100% eliminated in Syria and provided update version of the before and after maps @POTUS displayed on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/WbuhZCAy5x Mark Knoller (@markknoller) March 22, 2019 On the tarmac at @PBI_Airport, Pres Trump approached press pool to spotlight the maps showing elimination of ISIS caliphate in Syria (bottom), compared to ISIS territory in 2014 (highlighted in red)(top). Gave maps to the press pool, telling them to spread it around. pic.twitter.com/ISF7zaSlvl Mark Knoller (@markknoller) March 22, 2019 Pointing to the bottom of the map, which showed virtually no territory controlled by ISIS, there is no red, the president said. There is a tiny spot which will be gone by tonight, he added. This just came out 20 minutes ago thats the way it goes. Trump took to Twitter on Friday to add some thoughts, saying: ISIS uses the internet better than almost anyone but for all of those susceptible to ISIS propaganda, they are now being beaten badly at every level. There is nothing to admire about them, they will always try to show a glimmer of vicious hope but they are losers and barely breathing, he added. Think about that before you destroy your lives and the lives of your family. A French anti-riot police forces holds a rubber bullets less lethal gun (LBD40), during the 18th consecutive Saturday of demonstrations called by the 'Yellow Vest', movement in Paris, on March 16, 2019. (Thomas Samson/AFP/Getty Images) Judge Blocks Gun Ban in Chicago Suburb A Lake County, IL Circuit Court judge blocked the village of Deerfield from enforcing its ban on assault weapons, striking a legal blow to gun control efforts at the local level. According to The Chicago Tribune, Judge Luis Berrones issued a permanent injunction against the Chicago suburb, writing that the plaintiff firearm owners have a clearly ascertainable right to not be subjected to a preempted and unenforceable ordinance that bans them from having these firearms, mandates monetary fines for possessing them and enables law enforcement to seize these firearms. (RELATED: Kamala Harris Calls For Gun Ban) In April 2018, Deerfield trustees voted to ban the possession of specific semi-automatic guns like the AR-15 and AK-47, as well as magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. The ban came in the wake of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting and violations of the ban carried a fine between $250 and $1,000 per day, The Chicago Tribune reported. Gun rights groups immediately filed a legal challenge to the ban, citing 2013 Illinois state legislature action that gave a 10-day window to local municipalities to ban assault weapons, prior the new concealed carry law, which Deerfield did not take advantage of at the time. Judge Blocks Gun Ban In Chicago Suburb https://t.co/cyGpC2HHMV pic.twitter.com/x9ww4iv8Fg US1ANews (@US1ANews) March 22, 2019 We are very gratified with the judges ruling and we are glad the court recognized the ordinances were unenforceable, David Sigale, a lawyer for one of the plaintiffs told Tribune. As with most cases related to the Second Amendment, it appears another legal round is already brewing. Deerfield officials told The Tribune they are studying the ruling and figuring out their next steps with their legal team which includes an appeal to the Illinois Appellate Court. The NRA is proud to have supported this challenge to Deerfields ban on commonly owned firearms and magazines, said Chris W. Cox, executive director of NRAs Institute for Legislative Action. This ruling affirms that every law-abiding Deerfield resident has the right to protect themselves, their homes, and their loved ones with the firearm that best suits their needs. Judge Blocks Gun Ban In Chicago Suburb, Striking a Legal Blow to Gun Control Efforts at The Local Level. https://t.co/BWOYn8nDHA via @dailycaller merriemarie (@merriemarie) March 23, 2019 The court found that Deerfields attempt to amend an existing firearm ordinance was a violation of state law. The ordinance would have allowed local authorities to confiscate and destroy semi-automatic rifles and standard capacity magazines possessed within village limits. The challenge was originally filed in 2018 by the Illinois State Rifle Association, Second Amendment Foundation, and Daniel Easterday. This unprecedented interpretation of state legislative action and intent make this case ripe for appeal, village officials said in a statement. The NRA is proud to have supported this challenge to Deerfields ban on commonly owned firearms and magazines, said Chris W. Cox, executive director of NRAs Institute for Legislative Action. This ruling affirms that every law-abiding Deerfield resident has the right to protect themselves, their homes, and their loved ones with the firearm that best suits their needs. The court found that Deerfields attempt to amend an existing firearm ordinance was a violation of state law. The ordinance would have allowed local authorities to confiscate and destroy semi-automatic rifles and standard capacity magazines possessed within village limits. (RELATED: Boulder Residents File Lawsuit Against City Over Assault Weapons Ban) Judge blocks assault weapon ban in Chicago suburb after town tried to confiscate guns https://t.co/TMOiGltQRF pic.twitter.com/pBVvYVJSxS Conservative News (@BIZPACReview) June 13, 2018 A similar firearms ban on the same type of semi-automatic rifles went into effect last January in Boulder, Colorado and gun rights groups reacted similarly to those in Deerfield, Illinois. By Kerry Picket NSW Premiere Gladys Berejiklian (C) celebrates her win with sister Mary (L-R), mother Arsha, father Krikorat and sister Rita father in Sydney, Australia, on March 23, 2019. (Brook Mitchell/Getty Images) Liberals Hope NSW Win Could Boost Morrison Gladys Berejiklian says whether or not she ends up winning a majority shell work closely with the three independents in the NSW lower house. The Berejklian government has held on to power in NSW with the coalition hoping the result will prove a boost to Scott Morrison just two months out from the federal election. Gladys Berejiklian on Saturday became the first woman to be popularly elected premier of NSW and shell lead the coalition into a third straight term for the first time in 50-odd years. Its not yet clear if the government will maintain its majority but even if it falls short Berejiklian will be able to rely on the three returning independentsWagga Waggas Joe McGirr, Sydneys Alex Greenwich and Port Macquaries Greg Piper. Berejiklian told the party faithful she was incredibly proud of NSW where someone with a long surnameand a womancan be the premier. With almost 66 per cent of the vote counted the Liberal party and Nationals had won 46 seats in the 93-seat lower house. Labor had 35 seats, the Greens had three and the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party had at least two. Liberals hope the result is an indication NSW voters wont punish the prime minister and the party for the 2018 chaos in Canberra when they cast their ballots in Mays federal election. How good is Gladys Berejiklian and how good is the Liberal Party here in NSW, Morrison told the party faithful at a Sydney hotel. The federal Liberal leader, whos from south Sydney, said in two months time theyd be back here celebrating another Liberal-National government. Berejiklian pledged we will do everything we can to support you and your governments re-election. NSW Labor leader Michael Daley has only been in the top job for four months but after Saturdays poor showing his days could well be numbered. He vowed on Saturday night it is my intention to remain the leader of the party but admitted he was only hopeful of being in the role when parliament returns. Labor frontbencher Jodi McKaya potential leadership contender along with Chris Minnsbacked Daley to stay in the top job before adding: In saying that, last week we had a bad week. We had two incidents there which I think all of us wish hadnt happened, she said, referring to a video of Daley saying Asian migrants were taking local jobs and his inability to recall, during a TV debate, how much the opposition had committed to schools and TAFE. By Julian Drape, Tom Rabe and Dominica Sanda Special Counsel Robert Mueller departs after briefing the U.S. House Intelligence Committee on his investigation of potential collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign on Capitol Hill in Washington, on June 20, 2017. (Aaron P. Bernstein/Reuters) Mainstream Media, Celebrities React to Filing of Mueller Report With No New Indictments After Special Counsel Robert Mueller filed his long-awaited report on its Russia investigation with the attorney general, the mainstream media appeared stunned by the revelation that there would be no further indictments. According to a letter Attorney General William Barr sent to several senators, Mueller had concluded his investigation of the Russian interference in the 2016 election and related matters. And is not recommending any further indictments, a senior DOJ official told multiple news outlets after the report was filed. Attorney General William Barr letter to House & Senate Judiciary Committees Chairs & Ranking Members on Mueller Report pic.twitter.com/2XAlkLnBgT CSPAN (@cspan) March 22, 2019 A number of television personalities across multiple networks and Hollywood weighed in on the breaking news on March 22. MSNBC host Chris Matthews appeared livid upon hearing reports that Mueller had handed his report to the Department of Justice. He said he found it startling that there were no further indictments and was upset that Mueller had never interviewed President Donald Trump in relation to the Russian investigation. Why was there never an interrogation of this president? We were told for weeks by experts, You cannot deal with an obstruction-of-justice charge or investigation without getting the motive. How could they let Trump off the hook? Matthews asked during his show. He will not be charged with obstruction or of collusion without ever having to sit down with the Special Counsel Mueller and answer his damn questions. How could that happen? The liberal cable news host also looked visibly upset that there were no new indictments for Trump and his associates. He said, How can the president be pointed to as leading collusion with Russia, aiding a Russian conspiracy to interfere with our elections if none of his henchmen, none of his children, none of his associates have been indicted? When guest speaker, NBC News national security reporter Ken Dilanian, suggested that the president couldnt be indicted in a criminal sense as Mueller did not have the evidence, Matthews responded saying, Maybe [Mueller] missed the boat here. Because we know about the Trump Tower meeting in June 2016, we know about the meeting at the cigar bar with [Konstantin] Kilimnik. My God, we know about all of those meetings with [Sergey] Kislyak at the Republican convention in Cleveland. All these dots were now to believe dont connect. Dilanian said, Well, thats the conclusion in front of us. All of that stuff was suggestive, it didnt prove anything. CNNs legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin also shared his thoughts on the news. He said the lack of indictments is really good news for a lot of people around Donald Trump. Donald Trump Jr, Jared Kushner, Jerome Corsi, the writer who had a draft indictment presented to him by Muellers office and they decided not to go forward with this. Lets be fair here. There has been a lot of suspicion around certain people. And a lot of negative things have been said and imputation of criminal activity, Toobin said. Mueller has said, I am not proceeding. There is no better news to receive than you are not being indicted by the United States government, he added. Similarly, Jim Acosta, CNNs White House correspondent, reported that the White House was celebrating quietly after learning there were no new indictments. He told AC360 anchors Anderson Cooper that the Trump administration was reacting to the news with a fair amount of glee. "A fair amount of glee." Mediaite 2019322 I talked to a Trump campaign adviser earlier this evening who said, This was a great day for America and we won, Acosta said. Thats how they feel right now. Celebrity Reactions Liberal celebrities have taken to social media to share their reactions on the reports filing. Bill Maher, host of HBOs Real Time, started the conversation about the Russian investigation by asking, Did the Democrats put too much trust in the Mueller report? Because I dont need the Mueller report to know hes a traitor. I have a TV. I dont need the Mueller report to know Trump is a traitor. I have a TV. w/@RepSwalwell #SubpoenaMueller pic.twitter.com/gmaljGGBvn Bill Maher (@billmaher) March 23, 2019 Other stars also appeared surprised and upset by the conclusion of the investigation. It really doesnt matter whats in the Mueller report. If youre waiting on THAT to determine hes a lying, cheating, felon-you havent been paying attention, screenwriter Molly McNearney tweeted. It really doesnt matter whats in the Mueller report. If youre waiting on THAT to determine hes a lying, cheating, felon-you havent been paying attention. Molly McNearney (@mollymcnearney) March 22, 2019 Meanwhile, actor Jim Carrey wrote, The Mueller report is out! The question now ishow low will this Barr go? The Mueller report is out! The question now ishow low will this Barr go? pic.twitter.com/IveGZzlcRo Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) March 22, 2019 The report is confidential and marks the end of Muellers Russia probe. The letter also revealed that Barr intends to consult with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law, including the Special Counsel regulations, and the Departments long-standing practices and policies. I remain committed to as much transparency as possible, Barr said in the letter. And I will keep you informed as to the status of my review. On March 23, a senior Justice Department official told Fox News that Barr will not be sending the conclusion to Congress today. The Attorney General wants to get this out tonight, the source said told the news website. It will hit what is on everyones mindsno parsing of words, no games. Londonderry resident Mark DeAngelis dresses in a bunny costume to propose to wife Joelene for their 21st wedding anniversary at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, on March 19, 2019. (Courtesy of Manchester-Boston Regional Airport) Man Brings Back Bunny Costume Theme For 20th Wedding Anniversary MANCHESTER, N.H.A Londonderry man decided to surprise his loved one by showing up at the airport in a bunny costume to celebrate his wedding anniversary. Mark DeAngelis revealed this was the second time he had worn a bunny suit, having previously worn a similar costume to propose to his wife Jolene during a family Easter egg hunt back in 1998. DeAngelis went to the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport dressed as a bunny on March 19 to meet with Joelene and their daughters Audrey and Amanda, who were returning from a vacation to Florida. That whole thing bought me a lot of points for a lot of years. Now I need to restock those points, DeAngelis told WMUR-TV. So the plan for today is to recreate that moment as best I can. DeAngelis brought a new ring and placed it in a larger silver egg inside an Easter basket for the couples 20th anniversary. Its platinum because its our platinum anniversary, he said. Im going to ask her for another 20 years at least. The moment Jolene saw the 6-foot, 8-inch-tall bunny hop towards her she could not help but laugh as she came down the escalator. Man recreates bunny suit marriage proposal for anniversary #Manchester https://t.co/Uz1544reCj WEZS AM 1350 (@WEZS1350) March 22, 2019 As Joelene approached, the bunny kneeled-down and presented her the basket. Once she realized it was a ring, she shouted Yes! as onlookers realized what was happening and gave a round of applause. Joelene was moved to tears and was completely caught off-guard by the grand gesture. Yeah, Im shocked. I had no clue, she said. Hes a good guy, and hell always, to the end of the earth, protect us. Its not every day you see a 6-foot, 8-inch-tall bunny waiting for arrivals at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport. But Mark DeAngelis wanted to do whatever it took to make his wife smile. https://t.co/rQIfZ0yJZi Monica Hernandez (@MonicaWMUR) March 20, 2019 The daughters were also surprised to see such a tall bunny propose to their mother. Its just my parents and I love them so much and I thought it was so sweet of him to think of her and do this for her, Amanda said. NH man recreates special moment in bunny suit at Manchester airport https://t.co/3Z2FtoeO9l Dan VanOrden (@DanVanOrden) March 22, 2019 Man in bunny suit recreates wedding proposal for 20th anniversaryhttps://t.co/3ARh7mzSpi pic.twitter.com/4caqpVXJ4z FOX 8 New Orleans (@FOX8NOLA) March 20, 2019 DeAngelis credits the well-matched suit for helping him show his romantic side and bring back fond memories from more than 20 years ago. The bunny suit is almost identical, especially the head, he said. The head is perfect. Massachusetts Man Arrested for Keeping a TV Mistakenly Delivered to His Home The content is not available due to expiration. Soldiers from the Kentucky-based 19th Engineer Battalion work in a public park in Laredo, Texas, where they are installing barbed and concertina-wire on Nov. 17, 2018. (Thomas Watkins/AFP/Getty Images) Mexican Nationals Caught Stealing Concertina Wire at US Border Parts of the concertina wire at the San Diego border were stolen and sold by Mexican nationals in March. Mexican authorities seized the military-grade wire and returned it to U.S. authorities. The United States Customs and Border Patrol San Diego Sector (CBP) installed the concertina wire as a preventative effort against the migrant caravans illegal border rush back in November, 2018. Now, with Tijuanas recent spike in crime, pictures of Mexican houses can be seen online reinforced with the stolen wire to keep intruders out. Alambre de puas en la frontera protege casas de mexicanos en #Tijuana? Pobladores estan robando el material para reforzar la seguridad en sus hogares. https://t.co/JaeAAQhfbu pic.twitter.com/zgeAqFkrMf POLITICO Mexico (@politicomx) March 18, 2019 The people arrested were mainly Mexican [citizens], and most were people who have been deported from the United States, and people who have problems with drug addictions and live mostly on the street, Tijuana Border Liaison Director Reynaldo Gonzales Mora told the Washington Examiner. More than 12 people have been arrested. People in Tijuana now stealing concertina wire from the border fence and using it to protect their homes. @CBS8 pic.twitter.com/vjMWd6JfKY Barbara Richards (@sdbrichards) March 19, 2019 High Crime Catalyst In 2018, Tijuana ranked as the number-one most violent city in the world per capita, according to a report from the Mexican civil security organization Seguridad, Justicia, y Paz. The migrant caravan has contributed to the citys severe crime rate. Epoch Times reporter @charlottecuthbo is at the Southern border This video shows the military installing concertina wire on the levee behind Granjeno in Texas, just north of the border, in response to caravans heading for the US. #caravan @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/zhGRM43Y5f The Epoch Times (@EpochTimes) November 9, 2018 Since December when the caravan arrived at Tijuana 280 migrants from the caravan have been arrested, Municipal Delegate Genaro Lopez told Fox News on Dec. 13. They were originally arrested for drug possession and charged with breaking into peoples homes. However, Border Patrol confirmed to NTD News the stolen wire has already been retrieved and returned by Mexican law enforcement officials. We are grateful for this partnership, as it enhances border security efforts for both countries, a CBP spokesperson said in an email. Video captured 3/14 shows an illegal crossing of Central American migrants. None of the 52 people surrendered to the #USBP agent on the beach. All 52 people were eventually arrested after a 2 hour foot chase with multiple agents. Once in custody, everyone claimed asylum. #CBP pic.twitter.com/0gxH2lpNQc CBP San Diego (@CBPSanDiego) March 15, 2019 According to the email, construction of a 14-mile wall began in June 2018, and is nearing completion. Some gaps in the wall were temporarily filled with concertina wire, making it susceptible to damage and theft. The wire was also used to enhance the old wall, while the new barrier was under construction. Construction has begun on a new #BorderWall section, replacing 14 miles of the barrier near #SanDiego, #California. US @CBP: wall panels will replace a steel-mesh fence. The fencing will be replaced with steel bollards up to 30 feet high.https://t.co/NoCfEVH6y1 The Epoch Times (@EpochTimes) February 21, 2019 The Fake News is showing old footage of people climbing over our Ocean Area Fence. This is what it really looks like no climbers anymore under our Administration! pic.twitter.com/CD4ltRePML Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 19, 2018 From NTD.com File photo showing a Delta flight heading from New Jerseys Newark Liberty International Airport to Paris, France, on Sept. 24, 2018. (George Frey/Getty Images) Mother-Daughter Pilot Duo Becomes Famous Overnight, Inspires Internet Users A mother and daughter pilot team has caught the attention of the internet after a passenger snapped a photo of them while in the cockpit of an Atlanta-bound Delta Boeing 757. The passenger Dr. John R. Watret, who is the chancellor of the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, was flying from Los Angeles to Atlanta on March 16. Watret was surprised when he overheard that his flight crew was a mother and daughter duoCapt. Wendy Rexon and her first-officer daughter, Kelly Rexon. Embry-Riddle is a world renown aeronautical university. Just flew from LAX to ATL on Delta piloted by this mother daughter flight crew. Great flight. Inspiring for you women. pic.twitter.com/4Gk1vHCcZ1 John R. Watret (@ERAUWatret) March 17, 2019 I thought that was amazing. I was in awe, Watret said, according to a press release. I asked if I could visit them, too. He then snapped a photo of the pair and posted it on Twitter. Just flew from LAX to ATL on Delta piloted by this mother-daughter flight crew. Great flight. Inspiring for you women, he wrote on his post. The post quickly took off and became an internet sensation, with over 42,000 likes and 17,000 retweets at the time of this publication. I dont tweet a lot, said Watret, who was on a trip home after visiting the Embry-Riddle Asia campus in Singapore. On Sunday morning, my phone was blowing up. Many social media users said they were inspired by the photo while praising the mother-daughter for their cooperation. That is just the most amazing, wonderful news everseriously. My mother and I would never have flown together as crew. We couldnt even agree on having the radio on/off in the car, one social media user wrote. That is just the most amazing, wonderful news ever seriously. My mother and I would never have flown together as crew. We couldnt even agree on having the radio on/off in the car. Sharon Dunn & Gary (@SharonDunn54) March 17, 2019 How about a big congratulations for a mother-daughter team! Thats a great accomplishment, I dont recall many parent descendant ( is that politically correct enough) flight crews. Have tons of fun the both of you and a great career to both of them, another person wrote. Another social media user, who is also a pilot, took the opportunity to share a photo of him and his son flying together. Watret said the viral tweet meant a lot to him as the university was focused on creating more opportunities for women in all areas of the aviation industry. Its crucial and one of the key factors we focus on. When there are more opportunities, everyone wins, he said. Industry research conducted by Boeing forecasts that 790,000 new civil aviation pilots, 754,000 new maintenance technicians, and 890,000 new cabin crew will be needed to fly and maintain the world fleet over the next 20 years. Delta airlines also responded to the photo, saying Family flight crew goals! Just flew with this mother daughter flight crew on Delta from LAX to ATL. Awesome. @Delta @EmbryRiddle #erau pic.twitter.com/HYLl65H5p1 John R. Watret (@ERAUWatret) March 17, 2019 Piloting seems to run in the family with Wendys father, Bill Brown, being a retired pilot with Northwest Airline, her husband Michael Rexon is a pilot with American Airlines, and her other daughter Kate is also a pilot, reported Yahoo. Special Counsel Sends Final Report to DOJ, Appears to Recommend No Further Indictments Special counsel Robert Mueller has sent his long-awaited report to Attorney General William Barr, according to a letter from Barr to several Senators. Special Counsel Robert S. Mueller III has concluded his investigation of the Russian interference in the 2016 election and related matters, the letter said. Mueller is not recommending any further indictments, a senior DOJ official told Fox News. President Donald Trump has not received the report yet, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a March 22 statement. The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course, she said. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. The report is confidential, Barrs letter reads, and marks the end of Muellers Russia probe. Barr said he intends to consult with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law, including the Special Counsel regulations, and the Departments long-standing practices and policies. I remain committed to as much transparency as possible, Barr said. And I will keep you informed as to the status of my review. The letter also stated the attorney general may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. The letter was sent to chairs and ranking members of the judiciary committees in both the Senate and the House: Sen. Lindsay Graham (R-S.C.), Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), and Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) The Special Counsels Office didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Muellers Journey Mueller was appointed in May 2017 to investigate Russian interference in the 2016 election and allegations of collusion between the Trump campaign in such interference, as well as any matters that arose from the probe. The scope of the probe was provided by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and was revised in August 2017, most of which remains heavily redacted (pdf). As a result, the full purpose of this memo remains unknown to the public. The special counsel has secured indictments against some two dozen Russians, who are unlikely to ever appear in court, for alleged election meddling and cyber intrusions. He also indicted several Trump campaign associates for process crimes or violations unrelated to the Russian interference. None of the indictments substantiated the collusion allegations. Several prominent prosecutors left Muellers office in recent months, hinting his final report was about to drop. Former-Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker said on Jan. 28 he thought the probe is close to being completed. President Donald Trump recently said he wouldnt mind having the upcoming Mueller report publicly released. Let it come out, let people see it, Trump told reporters on March 20. Thats up to the Attorney General and well see what happens. The President also said, he look[s] forward to seeing the report. Trump has repeatedly slammed the Mueller probe as a witch hunt. Angry Democrats Of Muellers team, most worked at the Department of Justice or FBI headquarters during the Obama administration. At least 13 are registered Democrats, according to The Daily Caller. Thats why Trump dubbed the Mueller team 13 Angry Democrats. At least 11 of them made campaign contributions to Democratic candidates, mostly Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. None are currently registered as Republican. At least two people were removed from or left the Mueller team due to bias against Trump in their internal communications. One was former FBI Deputy Assistant Director Peter Strzok and the other was identified by Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.) as Kevin Clinesmith, an FBI attorney. Lisa Page, former special counsel to then-FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, left the Mueller probe before texts with Strzok emerged, revealing strong animus against Trump. She was also Strzoks mistress. Trumps new attorney general, William Barr, committed during his Jan. 15 confirmation hearing to releasing as much of the Mueller report as laws and regulations allow. Probe the Probe Barr said he was shocked to see the text messages between Strzok and Page. Upon a request from Justice Committee Chair Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), he committed to find out if the FBIs Russia investigation, which Mueller eventually took over, was conducted appropriately. In 2016, the FBI obtained a FISA warrant to spy on Trump 2016 presidential campaign associate Carter Page, and in the warrant, the FBI used the Steele Dossier, a collection of unsubstantiated claims about Trump-Russia ties compiled by former British spy Christopher Steele, who was commissioned by the Democratic National Committee and the 2016 presidential campaign of former State Secretary Hillary Clinton. Evidence has since emerged that officials were aware the dossier is unverified and its source politically biased. Committee chairman Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) speaks during a hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington, on March 12, 2019. (Alex Wong/Getty Images) Sen. Lindsey Graham Speaks at Mar-a-Lago Dinner As Mueller Probe Ends Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) was the keynote speaker at a closed-door Republican fundraiser at Floridas Mar-a-Lago on March 22, addressing a crowd hours after Special Counsel Robert Mueller filed his Russian investigation report with the Department of Justice (DOJ). Also in attendance was President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, who made a brief appearance to hear Graham deliver his speech and to thank his supporters who attended the event. If Lindseys speaking, I want to come down here, Trump said, according to a video posted to social media. For two reasons. No. 1: hes a great speaker. And No. 2, I know if Im here, hes not going to say anything bad about me. Although news surfaced about the end of the Mueller investigation, Trump did not make a comment about it, reported Politico, citing an attendee of the event. Neither did any of the other speakers. Nobody mentioned anything, other than all of us saw our phones and knew the report dropped, one of the attendees told the news website. In his speech, Graham gave a shout of to former Rep. Trey Gowdy and also recounted his relationship with the president. We found a lot in common. I like him and he likes him, Graham said, referring to how his relationship with Trump evolved over time. Also during his speech, Graham continued his calls for an investigation into Hillary Clinton and the alleged misconduct in the handling of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant process against Mr. Carter Page. This prompted the crowd to enthusiastically chant Lock her up, according to a CNN reporter. A lock her up chant broke out at Mar-a-Lago tonight during Sen. Grahams speech as he called for an investigation into Clinton and the origins of the dossier. Trump watched on from a table in the ballroom, Kevin Liptak wrote. A lock her up chant broke out at Mar-a-Lago tonight during Sen. Grahams speech as he called for an investigation into Clinton and the origins of the dossier. Trump watched on from a table in the ballroom. Kevin Liptak (@Kevinliptakcnn) March 23, 2019 Graham has on numerous occasions called for the appointment of a new special counsel to investigate possible misconduct by the DOJ and the FBI. We let Mueller look at ALL THINGS Trump related to collusion & more. Somebody needs to look at what happened on the other side, find out if the FBI & DOJ had 2 systems 1 supporting person they wanted to win, 1 out to get the person they wanted to lose.https://t.co/D8jVE0e5XZ Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) March 14, 2019 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 told Fox News on March 13. According to Politico, the president and his wife left the room soon after Grahams speech ended. Meanwhile, some of the guests posted photos of the evening on social media. View this post on Instagram The best dinner guests of all time! #TRUMP2020 A post shared by Matt Shields (@mattshieldss) on Mar 22, 2019 at 6:48pm PDT View this post on Instagram #presidenttrump #maga @bridget.heather A post shared by Vicki Vakani (@vickivakani1) on Mar 22, 2019 at 6:14pm PDT The fundraiser was hosted by the Palm Beach County Republican Party for their annual Lincoln Day Dinner. Trump Calls Democrats Anti-Israel For Not Attending Pro-Israel Conference WASHINGTONPresident Donald Trump took aim at Democrats for being anti-Israel on March 21 when asked about his attendance at the annual pro-Israel conference, AIPAC. The Democrats have very much proven to be anti-Israel, theres no question about that, and its a disgrace, Trump said. I mean, I dont know whats happened to them but they are totally anti-Israel. Frankly, I think theyre anti-Jewish. His remarks come after the progressive advocacy group MoveOn urged presidential candidates to boycott the conference, which is being headlined by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. MoveOn said in a Twitter post dated March 20 it is promoting the boycott because AIPAC, which stands for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, lobbied for the United States to withdraw from an Iran Deal, peddled anti-Muslim and anti-Arab rhetoric, and refused to condemn the anti-Semitism of Republicans. It cited a poll of its members in which more than 74 percent agreed any progressive candidate running for the U.S. presidency should skip the conference. Presidential candidates Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), former Rep. Beto ORourke (D-Texas), South Bend, Ind. Mayor Pete Buttigieg, and Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) have all indicated they do not plan to attend. The office of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) did not respond to emailed questions on whether she planned to attend. Democrat congressional leaders Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) are planning to speak at the conference, as is the congressional leadership on the Republican side, Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). Trump, whose son-in-law Jared Kushner and daughter Ivanka Trump are Jewish, is not scheduled to attend the conference. Instead, Vice President Mike Pence (R) will speak, as well as a number of other administration officials. Trump on March 21 said it was time to back Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights that Israel seized from Syria in 1967, noting it is of critical strategic and security importance to the state of Israel and regional stability. After 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israels Sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 21, 2019 Netanyahu thanked Trump for the gesture. At a time when Iran seeks to use Syria as a platform to destroy Israel, President Trump boldly recognizes Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Thank you President Trump! @realDonaldTrump, Netanyahu said in a Twitter post dated March 21. Trumps comments on Democrats came after freshman Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) stirred controversy with Twitter posts and comments widely viewed to be anti-semitic. Omar has since apologized for her comments. Anti-semitism is real and I am grateful for Jewish allies and colleagues who are educating me on the painful history of anti-Semitic tropes, Omar said in a Twitter post dated Feb. 11. Listening and learning, but standing strong ???????? pic.twitter.com/7TSroSf8h1 Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) February 11, 2019 The House has voted twice now on legislation, which is perceived to be targeting Omars comments. However, controversy ensued on how narrowly the second vote focused on anti-semitism. The first vote was on a motion to recommit that said, in part, there has been a significant amount of anti-semitic and anti-Israel hatred that must be most strongly condemned. The second, a resolution, also condemned anti-semitism but focused on Islamaphobia and other forms of bigotry as well. Trump in February called for Omar to step down from the House Foreign Affairs Committee, if not Congress altogether. Anti-semitism has no place in the United States Congress, he said during a cabinet meeting. Omar remains a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Reuters contributed to this report. From NTD.com U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters pose for a photo on a rooftop overlooking Baghouz, Syria, after the SDF declared the area free of ISIS terrorists after months of fighting on March 23, 2019. (Maya Alleruzzo/Photo via AP) US-backed Syrian Force Declares Victory Over ISIS BAGHOUZ, SyriaU.S.-backed forces declared military victory over the ISIS terrorist group in Syria on March 23, after liberating the last pocket of territory held by the extremists, marking the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate, the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. .There is nothing to admire about them, they will always try to show a glimmer of vicious hope, but they are losers and barely breathing. Think about that before you destroy your lives and the lives of your family! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 22, 2019 After weeks of heavy fighting, the tent camp where the terrorists had made their final stand in the village of Baghouz was bombed to shreds. A field pitted with abandoned trenches and bomb craters and littered with scorched tents and the twisted metal carcasses of vehicles, was all that remained. Half buried in the dirt was a tattered shred of ISIS notorious black flag, while a giant yellow flag belonging to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fluttered atop a shell-pocked building. Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved, tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF, referring to ISIS by its Arabic acronym. The elimination of the last ISIS stronghold in Baghouz brings to a close a grueling final battle that stretched across several weeks and saw thousands of people flee the territory and surrender in desperation, and hundreds killed. It spells the end of the terrorist proto-state, which at its height four years ago was the size of Britain and home to some 8 million people, but the extremist group still maintains a scattered presence and sleeper cells across Syria and Iraq. Its not known whether the groups leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is still alive or where he might be hiding. ISIS affiliates in Egypts Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan, and other countries continue to pose a threat, and the groups ideology has inspired so-called lone-wolf attacks that had little if any connection to its leadership. The campaign to take back the territory by the United States and its partners has spanned nearly five years and two U.S. presidencies, unleashed more than 100,000 bombs and killed untold numbers of terrorists. Its about time, Trump exclaimed on an airport tarmac in Florida. He held up maps indicating the territory once held by ISIS in Iraq and Syria had shrunk to nothing. Heres ISIS on Election Day, he said, linking coalition gains since then to his presidency. He pointed to a swath of red signifying the groups previous territorial hold, and then to a version without any red, Heres ISIS right now. Associated Press journalists in Baghouz on Saturday reported hearing mortars and gunfire directed toward a cliff overlooking Baghouz, where U.S.-led coalition airstrikes were carried out a day earlier. SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel said Friday that there were ISIS fighters hiding in caves near Baghouz and that clearing operations were still underway. On Saturday, journalists were taken to the encampment in Baghouz where the group had made its last standa wasteland of wrecked vehicles, torn tents, and scorched trees. Personal belongings and other items including generators, oil barrels, water tanks, and satellite dishes were scattered in the dirt. Cars and motorcycles were turned to rusted, twisted heaps of metal. There were unused rockets, mortars, and grenades, as well as a pile of suicide vests. Amid the empty fox holes and trenches stood a building with a huge yellow SDF flag on top. Ciya Kobani, an SDF commander, announced the end of the operation from the rooftop: We have been victorious against Daesh, he declared. At its height, ISIS ruled a third of both Syria and Iraq, holding millions of people hostage to its harsh and violent interpretation of Islamic law. The group carried out massacres and documented them with slickly produced videos circulated online. It beheaded foreign journalists, aid workers, and burned alive a captured Jordanian pilot. During a rampage through Iraqs Sinjar region in 2014, it captured thousands of women and girls from the Yazidi religious minority and forced them into sexual slavery. Many remain missing to this day. The group also used its caliphate as a launchpad for attacks around the globe, including the assaults in Paris in 2015 that killed more than 130 people. While it imposed an unforgiving version of ISIS through public beheadings and crucifixions, the group also carried out governance in its territories, including regulating prices at markets. Cornered in Baghouz, the group fought fiercely and desperately to hang on to the last shred of territory it controlled, using thousands of civilians, including women and children, as human shields. In the final weeks, they streamed out of Baghouz, bedraggled, angry and hungry, overwhelming Kurdish-run camps in northern Syria where they are being held. Aid organizations say more than 100 people have died in the journey from Baghouz to the al-Hol camp in Hassakeh province, or soon after arriving. By Philip Issa, Andrea Rosa and Maya Alleruzzo Zhen Shan Ren Art Exhibition on Display in Ukraines Capital The international Zhen Shan Ren Art Exhibition has arrived in Ukraines Capital, spotlighting paintings that show the beauty of self-cultivation and the severe persecution that prisoners of conscience face in China. The Art of Truth, Compassion, Tolerance exhibition consists of works from more than 12 artists with diverse backgrounds, in terms of professional experience, artistic styles, and cultural upbringing. What they have in common is their practice of Falun Gong (also called Falun Dafa), a form of spiritual meditation that originated in China, and their united effort to express the experiences theyve had in practicing the spiritual discipline. The works of art, painted in what is called the New Renaissance style, depict photo-realistic scenes and stories of torture and perseverance, often inspiring viewers to consider the role of ethical values in society and their own lives. The exhibition opened in Kiev on March 15. Western and Eastern Styles Meet Alexandra Goncharenko, the organizer of the exhibition, gave details about the style of the paintings in an interview with NTD News Reporter Anna Varavva. The paintings combine western and eastern styles. Western involves the perfection of bodies, the transfer of light and shadow according to the best traditions of the Western school of art, and the oriental style suggests a deep meaning, Goncharenko said. Half of the canvases show the beauty of a person who has taken the path of cultivation by Truth, Compassion, Forbearance, and the second part of the paintings is the persecution that is taking place in China, she added. In China, the creators of many of these paintings were oppressed for their commitment to practicing Falun Gong. The basic principles of this practiceTruth, Compassion, Forbearanceform the name of the exhibition. The Chinese Communist Party began to suppress Falun Gong 20 years ago because of its extreme popularity. Although it is a peaceful practice, the regime saw it as a threat to its power. Painting Virtues After Escape From Persecution It was the release of Professor Kunlun Zhang, arrested for his belief in Falun Gong, from a Chinese brainwashing center in 2001 that spurred communication between the artists, many of whom have never met face to face. In the course of sharing experiences over three years, ideas for the exhibit began to take shape. The exhibit would encompass four main themes: harmony, adversity, courage, and justice. By 2004, works that are part of the present collection began to be produced. Today there are 33 pieces in total. The artists include: Xiaoping Chen, Dr. Xiqiang Dong, Kathy Gillis, Yuan Li, Daci Shen, Weixing Wang, and Dr. Kunlun Zhang. Alexander Dudka, chairman of the supervisory board of the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation, also commented on the inner meaning of the artwork. Apparently, this is the main idea of these works: people are experiencing great horrors but they have faith and this idea of light, kindness on their faces. And this is perhaps the most powerful weapon that humanity can possess in order to truly win, Dudka told NTDTV. The exhibition has traveled the world since 2004. It has already visited more than 50 countries. From NTD.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Editorial Board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 23, 2019 09:15 995 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8359cd5 1 Editorial public-transportation,MRT-Jakarta,Mass-Rapid-Transit,#Editorial,urban-development,Transportation Free Jakarta finally now has its own MRT, something to celebrate after waiting for decades. Thousands of passengers have enjoyed the recent trial runs. The first line, which links the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle in Central Jakarta to Lebak Bulus in South Jakarta, complements the capitals Transjakarta bus service, the Commuter Line railway and other modes of public transportation in the capital, which is among the worlds most congested cities. While we expect to see more smiles from commuters traveling on Sunday, after President Joko Jokowi Widodo officially opens the MRT to the public, disappointment should also be expected as the inauguration is to proceed even as many supporting systems have not been completed. As this went to press, the central government and the Jakarta administration had yet to reveal the MRT fares as city councillors had not made up their minds about the subsidy the administration would provide to ease the burden on commuters a source of contention for some two decades since the MRT was conceived. Last week Jakarta councillors debated how to keep the fares for the MRT and light rapid transit (LRT) affordable for people from all walks of life. For now, Jakarta will have to pay a hefty subsidy to keep the fares between Rp 8,500 (56 US cents) and Rp 12,500 for the MRT and between Rp 5,000 and Rp 7,000 for the LRT. The administration said it would be free of charge until the end of this month, but we still do not know exactly how much the administration will charge passengers after this period. Park and ride facilities to support the 15.7-kilometer route will only be available at two out of 13 stations, namely those at Lebak Bulus and Fatmawati, both at the southern end of the line. The one near Lebak Bulus is progressing better than the parking lot near Fatmawati, which is still a plot of barren land. Even when it is ready, the Lebak Bulus parking lot will only accommodate 150 cars and 500 motorcycles, a small number compared to the thousands of commuters traveling to and from the city every day. Park and ride facilities are more important for middle-upper class MRT users, who will expect convenient public transportation, the most important factor that could persuade them to leave their cars at home. But with the scarce facilities, a drop in private vehicle use is not expected any time soon. Nevertheless, all of these problems should not discourage anyone. When it was first established, Transjakarta, a breakthrough in the citys public transportation in 2004, also hardly attracted the middle class, who first found it hard to imagine riding the buses. Fifteen years later, after the city bus operator gradually improved its network and service, the system has grown to carry more than 500,000 people daily. Sundays inauguration marks another breakthrough in Indonesias transportation history. It is the beginning of a journey of an advanced means of public transportation. Though dreadfully belated, its an exciting one. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Kabul, Afghanistan Sat, March 23, 2019 13:18 994 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8360e01 2 Entertainment Afghan-Star,Zahra-Elham,Afghanistan,Entertainment,talent-show,music Free An Afghan woman has become the first to win a popular singing competition, with her victory coming as fears grow that women could lose hard-won rights if the US does a peace deal with the Taliban. Zahra Elham, in her 20s and from Afghanistan's Hazara ethnic minority, snatched first place from her male runner-up on Afghan Star -- a local version of American Idol -- in which hundreds of men and women have competed for 14 seasons. "I popped the hearts of men out of their chests today," a happy Elham told the audience during the contest's finale late Thursday. "I am so so happy, I cannot even find words to express my feelings... Today, I represent all the girls of Afghanistan. Today not only Zahra Elham but all the girls in Afghanistan have won," she said amid cheers, applause and even tears from the admiring audience. Known for her high pitch and raspy voice, she had previously said she wanted to break the grasp of male winners on the competition, first launched in 2005 and one of Afghanistan's most popular television shows. "Your win is a slap in the face of jealous Afghan men," Sonita Rasa wrote on Zahra's Facebook page. "Hope you don't disappear after this big win and hope the situation allows you to continue to get to your dreams," Tanin, another user, wrote. Read also: Afghan woman seeks to become youngest to make solo round-the-world flight As talks between Washington and the Taliban aimed at ending the long war progress, many Afghans fear a premature US withdrawal could see the Taliban return to some semblance of power. Young women, keenly aware of how their gender was banished behind doors and beneath burkas under Taliban rule, are among the most vocal in warning they will not compromise their hard-won rights if the insurgents return. The Taliban have given few details of what they want in Afghanistan, and it is unclear what a post-conflict government would look like -- but under their strict interpretation of Islam the militants have never been in favour of women, or shows like Afghan Star. "Peace is on its way, hope the future peace has the Afghan Star contest in it," Mustafa Azizyar, the show's presenter said, after presenting the trophy. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Bambang Muryanto (The Jakarta Post) Yogyakarta, Central Java Sat, March 23, 2019 16:10 994 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8366bfd 1 Books Lelaki-di-Tengah-Hujan,Wenri-Wanhar,1998-tragedy,reform-era Free Student activist Bujang Parewa was caught by police following a bomb explosion at his home in Tanah Tinggi low-cost apartment in Jakarta on Jan. 18, 1998. He remained silent despite being tortured by the police. He stayed that way though they had tried to coax him by involving his girlfriend, Sarah. Youre wrong, Sarah, if you come to convince me to fulfill their wish, Bujang said. The scene above is part of Lelaki di Tengah Hujan (Man in the Rain), a novel written by journalist Wenri Wanhar. Published in February, the novel shares a glimpse into the lives of student activists in the 1990s, the movement of which later triggered the beginning of the Reform Era in 1998 and resignation of then-president Soeharto. Its my responsibility to write texts that people think are unimportant and forgotten, said Wenri during his book discussion in Yogyakarta on Friday, March 15. Through 395 pages, the book follows the struggle of Bujang Parewa, a student of Surakarta State University (UNS), who has a crucial role in initiating the student movement in the 1990s. Bujang has been involved in establishing Students Solidarity for Democracy in Indonesia (SMID) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PRD). Members of the organizations were kidnapped and a number of them remain missing until today. Bujang is described as being tenacious in fighting for marginalized people. Romance was not excluded and in fact enlivened the story, especially in the moments when the debate about the strategy of the students movement occurred and how both the military and police violently confronted the activists. Read also: Short film Laut Bercerita preserves the novels humanity Journalist Wenri Wanhar explains his latest book 'Lelaki di Tengah Hujan' in a discussion event in Yogyakarta on Friday, March 15. His novel narrates the story of student activists in 1998. (JP/Bambang Muryanto) Bujang is said to still devote himself in struggling for marginalized people. It was only rain that warmly welcomed him when he was released from Salemba detention center in Central Jakarta in 1998. Wenri said Indonesians need to understand history to be a strong nation. [Our] present comes from [our] past, said the author of 2014 book Jejak Intel Jepang (Traces of Japanese Intel). Lelaki di Tengah Hujan originated from Wenris meeting with Bujang Parewa when he became a student of Bung Karno University in Central Jakarta in 1999. Bujang then told Wenri about his secrets that later became a reference for Wenris 2006 thesis titled The Role of SMID in Resisting Soehartos Capitalist, Authoritarian Regime. As for the book, he had to do more research and his manuscript was not finish until 2010. Meanwhile, poet Joko Pinurbo praised Wenri for his ability to describe Bujang Parewa as a tough character without glorifying him as a flawless hero. The novel is a highly important historical document because we wont get it at school or from the country, said Joko, adding that he hoped young generation will be able to read it while they have the chance. Who knows, perhaps the book will be banned in the future. Several 1998 activists also attended the discussion event, including John Tobing, composer of Darah Juang (Blood of Struggle), a song that was often sung by activists during their rally, and Stone, an activist from Muhammadiyah Surakarta University (UMS). Both were mentioned in Wenris book. Hari Begi, one of the student activists from Yogyakarta, expressed hope that the book could inspire the younger generation. Its about how we revitalize the spirit of struggle 20 years ago for our present day, Hari said. (wir/mut) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Laurence Boutreux (Agence France-Presse) Madrid, Spain Sat, March 23, 2019 19:10 994 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8369ea7 2 Entertainment Pedro-Almodovar,Pain-and-Glory,antonio-banderas,penelope-cruz,movies Free Spanish director Pedro Almodovar's new movie "Pain and Glory" about a melancholic filmmaker played by Antonio Banderas opened in cinemas across Spain on Friday, the most retrospective work in his 40-year career. The Oscar-winning writer and director behind films such as "Women on the Edge of a Nervous Breakdown" and "Julieta" had long vowed never to publish an autobiography, but he admits he is "emotionally naked" in his 21st film which deals with the themes of love, mourning and reconciliation. "I felt the need to provide a very introspective look, including into my darkest parts and to mix that with the brightest memories of my childhood," the 69-year-old said during an interview with Spanish public television TVE on Wednesday. The movie cuts back and forth in time as it follows the filmmaker in his twilight years reflecting on the choices he's made in life. It features scenes of a young boy discovering he is gay in a rural and deeply Catholic Spain and of two mature men who kiss each other tenderly on the mouth. "I am master of my stories and I impose my universe with all the pride and all the arrogance that this allows. And in my universe there are two older gentlemen who kiss with passion, and after one of them returns to his life with his wife and children," Almodovar told online Spanish newspaper eldiario.es. 'My Mastroianni' The movie stars longtime Almodovar favourite Penelope Cruz who plays the main character's young mother, a woman engulfed in sadness who lights up and sings while washing clothes in a river. Spanish actress Julieta Serrano, who appeared in his first feature film, the 1980 camp comedy "Pepi, Luci, Bom", depicts the mother when she is elderly. "I don't want you to put anything about me in your films," Serrano's character says at one point. Almodovar picked Banderas, 58, who rose to Hollywood stardom after starring in his movies, to play his double. Read also: Filmmaker Almodovar walks Cruz, Banderas down memory lane in 'Pain and Glory' The actor sports Almodovar's trademark spiky white hair and bright clothes but does not imitate the director's mannerisms. "It took me time to understand that Antonio was my most legitimate Mastroianni," Almodovar told daily El Mundo in a reference to the role of a depressed film director played by Marcello Mastroianni in Italian director Federico Fellini's "8", which won the best foreign language film Oscar in 1963. Almodovar first cast Banderas in his 1982 film "Labyrinth of Passion". He went on to give him leading roles in six other movies. 'Most sincere' movie While reviews in Spain for Almodovar's recent movies have been mixed, this time around critics have been mostly positive about "Pain and Glory" (Dolor y Gloria). Spanish daily El Mundo said the film "achieves a level of perfection which is difficult to surpass", while online newspaper El Espanol called it Almodovar's "most sincere" movie. Almodovar has stressed in several media interviews ahead of the film's release that it contains many fictional moments which bear no resemblance to his own history. For example, the director in the movie falls in love with a builder as a nine-year-old boy. Almodovar says this never happened to him, though he admits it could have. In the movie the director becomes hooked on heroin. Almodovar said he never touched the drug, preferring instead cocaine in his younger days. The film features a cameo appearance by Latin Grammy winner Rosalia, 25, who is being praised globally for her groundbreaking fusion of flamenco with urban and electronic music. Almodovar has won two Oscars -- for best foreign language film in 2000 with "All About My Mother" and for best original screenplay in 2003 with "Talk to Her". Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 23, 2019 14:22 994 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8361a3e 1 National Lombok,Malaysia,tourists,earthquake,Taufik,hero,disability,deaf Free Global Peace Mission (GPM) Malaysia has said it plans to name a 7-year-old boy with disabilities from Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara, a hero for helping foreign tourists evacuate from the area when an earthquake jolted the island recently. Taufik, a deaf and mute boy from Senaru village, North Lombok regency, assisted Malaysian tourists in finding a route out of Tiu Kelep Waterfall when a 5.4-magnitude earthquake occurred and triggered landslides on Sunday. Insya Allah [God willing] we will name him [] a symbol of heroism and bravery for saving their lives when they needed help the most, said GPM Malaysia chief operation officer Syahrir Azfar bin Saleh as quoted by Antara on Thursday. The earthquake caused landslides in the regency, killing at least two Malaysians and injuring more than 30most of whom were foreign and domestic tourists. Wong Siew Lim, a Malaysian who suffered minor injuries to her arm, said Taufik had helped her and other tourists evacuate from the area safely after the earthquake-triggered landslides occurred around the waterfall area when they were sightseeing. While he was being carried, Taufik assisted us by showing the way out from the location [of the waterfall], she said, adding that she was very thankful to the boy. Syahrir said the GPM was making efforts to gain support from the Malaysian kingdom so that the boy could be named a hero in Malaysia. The boys heroic tale would also be told to the royal family, he added. We also want to create a chance for [Taufik] to live a normal life. Perhaps we can take Taufik to Malaysia, he said, adding that the GPM would carry out efforts to provide Taufik with medical assistance. The organization would also tell Malaysians not to be afraid to visit Lombok, Syahrir said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 23, 2019 18:25 994 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8368eb0 4 City bandung,Depok,Depok-administration,ridwan-kamil,West-Java,tourism,bus Free The Depok transportation agency will soon launch a bus called Oren or cool odong-odong (amusement ride) to boost tourism in the city. The West Java administration handed over one of its double-decker buses to the Depok municipality, the agency head Dadang Wihana said. The bus is an open-top bus like the ones used in the provincial capital of Bandung called Bandros (Bandung Tour on a Bus). I want to encourage residents to take the ride so it can become a good trend [in Depok], he said as reported by kompas.com on Friday. The bus would operate from Grand Depok city to Cilodong Lake up to Jatijajar bus terminal, Dadang added. Although the service would be launched soon, Dadan did not provide details on the exact date as the administration was still decorating the bus. Once operational, its management would be handed over to the Depok Organization of Land Transportation Owners. Depok is among 27 municipalities and regencies in West Java that received the tourism bus from the West Java administration. West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil first launched Bandros as a tourism ride when he served as Bandung mayor in 2014. (ggq) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 23, 2019 15:06 994 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8365b72 4 City Garuda-Indonesia,Jakarta-police,pilot,soekarno-hatta-airport,Airport Free Soekarno-Hatta International Airport Police arrested a man posing as a pilot for national flag carrier Garuda Indonesia at the airports Terminal 3 in Tangerang, Banten, on Friday. The man, identified as Alvin Adithya Darmawan, was wearing a Garuda pilot uniform when he checked in at the Garuda counter at 11:40 a.m. on Friday, Soekarno-Hatta police chief Sr. Comr. Victor Togi Tambunan said. Besides dressing in uniform, Alvin was also reportedly carrying a Garuda air crew ID. Alvin was seen wandering around the terminal before heading to a security check point when a real Garuda pilot named Andre saw him and became suspicious of Alvins behavior. Based on his suspicions, captain [Andre] then talked to the man, but he replied with unclear answers, Victor said as reported by kompas.com on Saturday. Andre then reported Alvin to flight security personnel near the check point. Head of the criminal investigation unit at the airport, Comr. James Hasudungan Hutajulu, said Alvin was a passenger on a Garuda flight to Semarang, Central Java. He reportedly told police that he was obsessed with the idea of becoming a pilot. When he graduated high school he applied to get into a pilot school but he failed, James said as quoted by tribunnews.com. Alvin was still detained for questioning as of Friday evening. (ggq) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Yulia Savitri (The Jakarta Post) Palembang Sat, March 23, 2019 16:59 994 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee836702a 1 National Palembang,South-Sumatra,Musi-River,water-crisis,World-Water-Day Free The Palembang administration has revealed that the number of tributaries flowing into the citys pride, the Musi River, has diminished mainly due to infrastructure development over the years, which may lead to a water crisis. Palembang Mayor Harnojoyo said Palembang used to have more than 300 tributaries flowing into the river. However, the city has lost around 221 tributaries. Now, there are now only around 95 left, he said during a national seminar on 2019 World Water Day on Thursday. He added that during Dutch rule, theTengkuruk River, one of the tributaries, was filled up to build a street, now known as Jl. Sudirman, while, the Kapuran River has become Jl. Merdeka. The remaining tributaries, he said, were experiencing a similar problem coupled with pollution. The regulation relating to illegal rubbish dumping is available, but we havent implemented it yet because it would just fill up our prisons, Harnojoyo said. The local administration, he added, has recorded that at least 11 percent of the citys population of 2 million were still illegally dumping rubbish in the river and its tributaries. The director-general of watershed control at the Environment and Forestry Ministry, Ida Bagus Putera Parthama, said the government should take immediate action with regards to the Musi River because it is in a critical condition. We must take a stern measures. The spatial arrangement mistakes can create disasters," he added. (das) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Panca Nugraha (The Jakarta Post) Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara Sun, March 24, 2019 05:55 994 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee836d6f3 1 News West-Nusa-Tenggara,Tambora-festival,Mount-Tambora,Sumbawa,festival Free Pesona Tambora Festival (FPT) is to return to West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) in April. The main event of the festival that will take place on April 11 will be held on the Doro Ncanga savannah at the foot of Mount Tambora in Dompu regency, NTB. [Festival] activities, slated to start on April 1 and culminate on April 11, will feature 27 tourism attractions to be held in five regencies and cities on Sumbawa island, said the head of the NTB Tourism Agency Lalu Mohammad Faozal to The Jakarta Post on Wednesday, after an event preparation meeting in Mataram. The festival is listed in the Tourism NTB 2019 calendar of events, as well as the agenda of 100 Wonderful Indonesia 2019. This years festival will be its fifth installment after its inauguration in 2015 that commemorated 200 years since a Mount Tambora eruption that took place in April 1815 Tambora festival was officiated by President Joko Jokowi Widodo for the first time in 2015 with the tagline Tambora greets the world, but 'The world greets Tambora' will be our tagline this year, said Faozal. He went on to say that FPT 2019 will be launched in Jakarta at the end of March. Read also: Sail Moyo Tambora 2018 to highlight West Nusa Tenggara tourism Among the activities listed on FPT's agenda is Semalam Dalam Loka, which will be held in Sumbawa regency on April 2 and 3. This is a cultural event held to promote cultural tourism, particularly at the site of a palace that belongs to the former sultan of Sumbawa. There will also be Mantar festival in West Sumbawa regency on April 5 and 6. Mantar is a place often dubbed the village above the clouds, perched at a height of 690 meters above sea level. Lawata festival will follow on April 6 to 8, featuring the city of Bimas Lawata beach where the fishermen will decorate their boats for a contest. Meanwhile, on April 7 to 11, those who love trekking can join the Teka Tambora, a trekking event through Kawinda toi track, starting from the city of Bima. This event includes such activities as Educamp (educational camp) on mountaineering and tourism, a creative economy exhibition and Tambora coffee promotion. The main event will take place at the top of the [Teka Tambora] venue, said Faozal. Tambora I Geopark festival is also scheduled for April 8 to 11 in Bima and Dompu regencies. There are 27 activities spread in five regencies and cities all over Sumbawa. We hope this could boost tourism promotion and creative economy growth on Sumbawa island, said Faozal. Head of NTB Regional Tourism Promotion Agency (BPPD) Anita Ahmad said she is aware that the 2018 Lombok quake still affected tourism in NTB. However, the more events held in the area, the more they can show the world that the province is ready to welcome travelers again. We promote the potential that we have. Apart from Lombok, NTB also has the enchanting Sumbawa, said Anita to the Post, adding that NTB residents must have the strong determination to recover with full energy. (mut) 1+ days ago This Is Why You Gotta Love The Lovesac Company The Lovesac Company Comfortably Beats The Consensus The Lovesac Company (NASDAQ: LOVE) is a story-within-a-story that we see accelerating its hyper-growth over the course of the next year. Not only is the furniture industry benefiting from strong tailwinds put in place by the pandemic but it is a growing concern within the industry. Read Article NEW YORK, March 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Industry titans Michael Bloomberg and Brian Duperreault highlighted Bermudas value to global business and the United States, delivering a dynamic launch yesterday to a full-capacity Bermuda Executive Forum in New York. Both high-profile executives joined Premier David Burt for the events kick-off fireside chat, a casual and wide-ranging discussion that touched on geopolitics, leadership styles, industry trends, and the advantages Bermuda lends to corporations seeking safe, stable, diverse and innovative jurisdictions. Culture attracts capital faster than capital attracts culture, noted Bloomberg, a former three-term mayor of New York City, part-time Bermuda resident, and founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg Philanthropies. We do a lot of business in Bermuda because there are a lot of financial institutions that need Bloomberg terminals, so its a logical place to go. Bermuda is a relatively easy place to do business. And as long as the insurance business keeps growing in Bermuda, I think our business will keep growing there. Bermuda is a great country, a cohesive society. Where else I would I do business on an island? Maybe Manhattan island! he joked. I think Bermudas got a much better hand to play than most. The session was a highlight of a day packed with informative panels showcasing the Bermuda markets expertise across myriad industry sectors and attracting a 350-strong audience of executives and investors to the midtown venue off Times Square. More than 40 speakers from the island, comprising government, industry and regulatory leaders, outlined global trends and the unique combination of factors that set Bermuda apart as a jurisdiction of choice for global business. The forum was the fifth in a successful series hosted in different cities by the Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA). I think we have a great story to tell and getting out in a forum like this, and getting someone like Mike Bloomberg ,whom everybody holds in the highest esteem, and having him talk about how great it is to be in Bermuda, how he feels about Bermuda compared to other placesI think thats valuable, noted Duperreault, the Bermudian market veteran who is currently President and CEO of American International Group (AIG). Bermuda is home to me. My business is also very much involved there, he said, noting AIG is celebrating its centennial this year, including more than 70 years on the island. Bermuda is a great place to work and live and its culture is deep. Its proximity to the US, the business relationships we have, all of these things add up to providing a venue thats the best to me for what I do. The forum featured moderated panels of experts in Bermudas key industriesfrom re/insurance and asset management to trusts, family offices and fintech, as well as networking opportunities. The islands historic and mutually beneficial relationship with the United States was the common theme across all discussions. New York is the most important city worldwide when it comes to capital markets, and its a city we have numerous links to. Thats why were speaking to potential customers and describing why Bermuda is a jurisdiction that can help them return value to their shareholders, said the Premier Burt, who was joined by Finance Minister Curtis Dickinson at the event. Having industry titans with us such as Brian Duperreault and Mike Bloomberg demonstrates how important Bermuda is to America and to American citizens. We must grow and build on those relationships. The forums keynote was TED speaker, entrepreneur, and award-winning author Jared Kleinert, who engaged the crowd with a talk about millennials and how they view careers, risks and achievements. As an American and as a former resident of New York with family ties to this city, it was exciting to see Team Bermuda visit us, he said afterwards. For the BDA and for Bermudians to go out into markets they value building relationships withit speaks volumes. Numerous business development meetings and introductions also took place at the venue during the forum, which concluded with a networking reception. Its been an impressive day, said the BDAs CEO Andy Burrows. The Premiers fireside chat with Mr. Bloomberg and Duperreault highlighted the importance of the USBermuda relationship. It was striking and it was a theme that carried throughout the day. Our relationship with America is old, its still maturing, yet it is also very dynamic. We look to the US as a partner economically and politically. Historically, we have invested in and supported each others economies. Clearly, it is a relationship we must continue to nurture and grow. The bilateral relationship between New York and Bermuda is among the most important in the world, agreed BDA Deputy Chair Steve Weinstein. From our leadership in response to the 9/11 tragedy to the efforts Bermuda made to the rebuilding of lower Manhattan after Superstorm Sandy, New York has been a critical market to Bermuda and an important part of extending the global franchise for Bermuda as the worlds risk management capital. As Bermuda expands into adjacent sectors, Im confident that relationship will only grow. The visit to New York also saw Premier Burt, Minister Dickinson and Burrows meet with major media groups in New York, including Coindesk, Barrons and The Economist, whose journalists were interested to learn details about Bermudas economy and what differentiates it to encourage nascent digital asset, blockchain and fintech companies to set up on the island. The Premier spoke to Yahoo Finance YFI online news programme yesterday morning, when host Dan Roberts described him as the tech Premier. Burt also taped a session with Fortune magazines Balancing the Ledger online video show that airs Monday. MEDIA CONTACT: Rosemary Jones Head of Communications & Marketing rosemary@bda.bm 441 278-6558/441 337-4696 CONNECTING BUSINESS The BDA encourages direct investment and helps companies start up, re-locate or expand their operations in our premier jurisdiction. An independent, public-private partnership, we connect you to industry professionals, regulatory officials, and key contacts in the Bermuda government to assist domicile decisions. Our goal? To make doing business in Bermuda smooth and beneficial. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/02d3359f-abaa-495e-b2cc-687fb1d46e4f A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9e61fbcb-66d2-432a-961a-8a65067e3d3c American drug suspect arrested in Thailand after 25 years on the run CHIANG MAI: Immigration police announced the arrest of an American drug suspect, who had been living under the identity of another person for 25 years. The man was arrested in Chiang Mai where he resided since 2013. By The Phuket News Saturday 23 March 2019, 01:21PM Immigration police announced the arrest of Bruce McIntire who had been on the run for 25 years. Photo: Immigration Bureau Immigration Chief Lt Gen Surachate Hakparn announced the arrest of Bruce McIntire, 67, yesterday (Mar 22). The arrest proper was conducted on Feb 28 in Chiang Mai where Mr McIntire had been living for six years under the name of Mr Thomas. The foreigner's quiet life in Thailand finished when he had to contact the American Embassy to get a new passport. The Embassy check revealed that the man's document was fake and he in fact was a fugitive wanted on drug-related charges in the USA. Further fingerprint check confirmed the real identity of Mr McIntire. Mr McIntire is now facing deportation to the USA, Gen Surachate confirmed. Police warn of election alcohol ban PHUKET: Phuket Provincial Police have cautioned business operators that the national election tomorrow will see a ban on the sale of alcohol starting at 6pm tonight (Mar 23). politicsalcoholcrimepolice By The Phuket News Saturday 23 March 2019, 11:00AM The ban on the sale of alcohol is mandatory by law. Image: The Phuket News / file There will be a 24-hour ban on the sale of alcohol from 6pm on Saturday (Mar 23) until 6pm on Sunday (Mar 24), explained Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Col Sermpan Sirikong. The ban on the sale of alcohol is mandatory by law. Police will enforce it the 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 law must be followed. When people travel to a foreign country, we must comply with the laws of that country, Col Sermpan said. The ban is enacted by Section 147 of the Organic Act on the Election Commission, B.E. 2018, which states that 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 up to six months jail or a fine of up to B10,000, or both. Russian fugitive arrested in Phuket on Interpol notice PHUKET: A Russian fugitive wanted in his home country for extortion has been arrested by Thai police in Phuket. crime By The Phuket News Saturday 23 March 2019, 10:41AM Immigration Chief Maj Gen Surachate Hakparn announced the arrest of Igor Treriakov yesterday (Mar 22). Photo: Immigration Bureau Immigration Chief Lt Gen Surachate Hakparn announced the arrest to press yesterday (Mar 22). The fugitive, Igor Tretiakov, was arrested at his rented apartment in Chalong last Tuesday (Mar 19), Gen Surachate said. The arrest was conducted in cooperation with the Russian Embassy. This man is wanted by Russian authorities for intimidation and extortion. He is a dangerous person, Gen Surachate said. He was part of mafia in Russia, he added. Gen Surachate didn't reveal how long Mr Tretiakov had been living in Thailand. Mr Tretiakov is considered to be a person posing threat to society and being able to inflict serious harm to public safety and national security. We revoked his permission to stay in Thailand, and as a person wanted by a foreign government he will be deported to his home country, Gen Sarachate said. Southern Pines, NC (28387) Today A steady rain this evening. Showers continuing overnight. Thunder possible. Low 41F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%.. Tonight A steady rain this evening. Showers continuing overnight. Thunder possible. Low 41F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Watertown Development Co. executive director resigns Watertown Development Company Executive Director, Mark Vaux, has resigned from his position. Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA (EMGS or the Company) has today received a letter of intent for a fully pre-funded multi-client survey in the Norwegian Barents Sea. The total value of the letter of intent is approximately USD 2.5 million. The Company will mobilise the vessel Atlantic Guardian to carry out the survey, and expects to complete acquisition work within the second quarter of 2019. Contact Hege Veiseth, CFO, +47 992 16 743 About EMGS EMGS, the marine EM market leader, uses its proprietary electromagnetic (EM) technology to support oil and gas companies in their search for offshore hydrocarbons. EMGS supports each stage in the workflow, from survey design and data acquisition to processing and interpretation. The Company's services enable the integration of EM data with seismic and other geophysical and geological information to give explorationists a clearer and more complete understanding of the subsurface. This improves exploration efficiency and reduces risks and the finding costs per barrel. EMGS operates on a worldwide basis with offices in Trondheim, Oslo, Houston, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro and Kuala Lumpur. For more information, visit www.emgs.com This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act MONTREAL - Rothmans, Benson & Hedges has become the third tobacco company to receive a temporary reprieve from compensating 100,000 Quebec smokers after securing creditor protection in an Ontario court on Friday. Imperial Tobacco Canada and JTI-Macdonald Corp. were both granted creditor protection earlier this month. The three companies lost an appeal of a landmark $15-billion class-action lawsuit in the Quebec Court of Appeal on March 1. Rothmans, Benson & Hedges said in a statement that the Ontario Superior Court has stayed legal proceedings against all three companies until April 4-5. The Quebec Council on Tobacco and Health led two class actions against the companies and won in 2015, when Quebec Superior Court Justice Brian Riordan ordered the companies to make payments of more than $15 billion to smokers who either fell ill or were addicted. At the time, the ruling was believed to be the biggest class action award in Canadian history. The tobacco companys managing director said the creditor protection could provide an opportunity for the company to resolve all the pending Canadian litigation against it. While RBH disputes liability in the Canadian litigation given the widespread awareness of the health risks of smoking, we are optimistic about reaching an arrangement that could resolve all pending litigation and allow RBH to focus on the future, Managing Director Peter Luongo said in a statement. A spokesman for the Canadian Cancer Society accused the companies of seeking a sweetheart settlement that would allow them to avoid paying the bulk of the damages. The tobacco industry has engaged in decades of wrongful behaviour that has caused disease and death on a massive scale, Rob Cunningham said in a statement. Court judgments in Quebec have been highly critical of the tobacco industry and have ordered the companies to pay billions of dollars. Now the companies are trying to avoid paying what they have been ordered to pay. Toronto police have charged a man and are looking for another suspect in connection to a robbery at Fairview Mall on Friday. Police responded to a call at approximately 11 a.m., about a robbery at the North York mall. A 37-year-old man was robbed of his Breitling watch valued at over $27,000, police said in a press release. During the robbery, the victim was assaulted with bear repellent spray which resulted in an evacuation of the mall, police said. Police arrested 23-year-old Kyle Eric Fraser, of Guelph, and charged him with one count of robbery with a weapon, assault with a weapon, administering a noxious substance and common nuisance. He is scheduled to appear in court Saturday. Police say they are still looking for another suspect. He is described as approximately five-feet-nine to six-feet tall, 25-35 years-old, heavy-set, short black hair and a black beard. He was wearing a grey-and-white track suit and white sneakers. Police say he was seen arriving and leaving in a white BMW 3-series with a sunroof and damage near the front drivers side headlight. The suspect, police say, struck another vehicle as he was driving out of the mall parking lot in the BMW and as a result, the car will have other damage on the front passenger side. Police are looking for any witnesses to this incident or anyone with information about the whereabouts of the outstanding suspect or the vehicle. They are asked to contact police at 416-808-3300 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477). For four months in 2014, a secret police camera recorded the comings and goings inside a Liberty Village condo building. The camera, which Toronto police installed without a warrant to track gang-related drug dealers, clearly showed the hallway outside two uninvolved units including a partial view into the home of a woman who was not a target of surveillance. In several instances, the camera recorded her wearing a towel or in her underwear reflected in a mirror inside her front door resulting in what lawyers are arguing was a serious violation of privacy. The recordings, which police say were taken with the permission of the condo board, are at the centre of an appeal in a case that exposes the current legal grey zone around warrantless police surveillance in condo buildings. Does, as the appellants argue, allowing cameras to be secretly installed in hallways without a warrant mean Torontos rapidly growing population of condo-dwellers have fewer protections against state surveillance than those who live in a house? Its often said that a mans house is his castle, but what about his or her condominium building? There is uncertainty in the law about whether condominium dwellers enjoy a reasonable expectation of privacy in the common areas of their condominium buildings, said Nader Hasan, a criminal and constitutional lawyer who is not involved in this case. The appeal stems from a large-scale gang investigation that, in part, involved surveillance of the drug trade in condominium buildings around the city. The four men appealing their convictions were all convicted of charges involving gang-related drug-trafficking. In the decision under appeal, R v Brewster, Superior Court Justice Michael Code found that hallways in condo buildings are the equivalent of a sidewalk or street outside a detached house. The fact the suspect was observed in the hallway outside his unit is no different than observations of a homeowner walking along the front yard path leading from the garden gate to the front door of a detached dwelling house, he wrote. The appellants, however, argue that the home of a condo resident doesnt start at the door of their unit, but rather the door of the building. Surveillance of the buildings common areas was an intrusion on peoples homes, they argue in documents filed with the court. Residents do not expect to be recorded by a secret camera when they open the door to their condominium unit clad in a towel. Justice Code found that the privacy violations of third parties, including the woman whose unit was partially visible, were minimal and ruled police did not need a warrant with permission from the property managers or the condo board. Security cameras are common in condo buildings shared spaces, indicating the owners accept this reduction of their privacy interests in these common area that lead to their homes in favour of collective security, he said. But the appellants argue approving building security measures is very different from agreeing to invasive police surveillance. There is also uncertainty about whether condo boards can consent to police surveillance in common areas without seeing a warrant, they say. Its one thing to delegate matters of security to a condominium board but is that really the same thing of delegating the authority to make decisions about your constitutional rights? Hasan said. In a recent case, the Supreme Court found that in the case of a shared computer or shared premises one user cannot waive the rights of the other person by allowing police to do a search. The appellants argue condo boards are not equipped to weigh the privacy interests of condo residents with law enforcement objectives there are no requirements for any members to have legal or formal training. In one case of surveillance, the appellants argue, the condo board seemed more concerned about the cost of camera installation than with the invasion of privacy. The appellants say condo boards should not be able to consent to police-installed cameras without a warrant but if the court finds they can, there should at least be mechanisms in place to ensure consent is obtained, that third parties are informed about the privacy invasion after the fact and that any third-party privacy invasion is minimized. It remains unclear whether any innocent party is aware they were surveilled during the late 2013 and early 2014 period, according to the appellants. The four appellants, Ken Mai, Larry Yu, Dat Quoc Tang and Christopher Saccoccia, are seeking a new trial excluding the warrantless recordings and quashing a later-issued warrant in part because they say police exploited a legal grey area to obtain the footage. Toronto police spokesperson Meaghan Gray could not provide information about the specific case but said without exception police officers are expected to conduct investigations within the confines of the law and in a manner that respects and adheres to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Where judicial authorization is required as part of an investigation, including if it is required for obtaining video-related evidence, there is an express expectation that judicial authorization will be sought, she said. Warrantless requests for access and for surveillance purposes by police are increasingly common, says Mario Deo, a condominium lawyer with Fine and Deo, which represents about 1,000 condo buildings around the GTA and in the province. He says he is informed of one about once a week. His advice to condo boards is to always ask for a warrant, even though they dont need one to give permission. When considering a non-emergency warrantless request, he said, the board should get the badge number of the officer, the request being made, what law is being enforced, the crime under investigation, how long the surveillance will be for, and a statement that the officer has lawful right to come onto the property. People arent trained this much, but this is what you need, he said. Once you have that information, its a judgment call on the part of the condo board. The general test he advises is whether condo board members feel the risk of harm to residents outweighs their privacy interests in the time it would take for police to obtain a warrant. He said ensuring the police get a warrant can benefit condo residents in the long run, because it avoid exactly the issues that are being raised in this appeal but still allows the safety and security of residents to be considered. Deo suggests there should be general notice issued to condo residents informing them that if the police want to covertly record common areas without a warrant, condo boards may grant permission under certain circumstances and would do so if police obtained a warrant. That way at least everyone knows that when you walk out your door there is no expectation of privacy, he said. He notes the use of security cameras in condo buildings is tightly regulated and privacy is considered carefully when that footage is used, for example, to find out if any condo rules are being broken. Its not possible to install cameras to find out who throws cigarette butts off balconies, for example, because those cameras would likely allow a view inside a unit. Brenda McPhail, the Canadian Civil Liberties Associations director of privacy, technology, and surveillance said police should have to get a warrant before covertly recording individuals inside their home or in the shared spaces in a multi-unit building, which she said are an extension of the home. There may be a lesser expectation of privacy in the hall because you expect people to see you as you walk back and forth but there is not no expectation of privacy. The Supreme Court of Canadas recent judgment in R v Jarvis, the case of a teacher who secretly recorded students in a school, rejected the premise that having security cameras present removes a reasonable expectation privacy, McPhail said. Those cameras are installed for a particular purpose. They are known and not covert, she said. There is accountability and transparency. Justice Code noted Toronto police had strong reasonable grounds for their covert surveillance, which was part of a massive joint investigation by the Asian Organized Crime Task Force, the Guns and Gangs Task Force and the Homicide Unit. Project Battery and Project Rx investigated warring rival gangs, including the Asian Assassinz/Project Originals and Chin Pac/Sic Thugz, following a spate of gun violence including a murder at Yorkdale mall in 2013. The secret cameras were installed without a warrant at 38 Joe Shuster Way and 18 Valley Woods Rd. in late 2013 or early 2014. Police, without a warrant, also obtained access to a video feed from a building camera at 1600 Keele St. After warrants were granted, police later installed secret cameras 125 Western Battery Rd., 816 Lansdowne Ave. and 21 Iceboat Terrace, and another camera at 38 Joe Shuster Way. Police also made 90 warrantless entries into various condo buildings between October 2013 and April 2014. Its a little bit shocking, its a little bit alarming, said Mathew Emanuele, a resident in the 125 Western Battery Rd. building, who was not aware that covert cameras could be placed in the building without a warrant. As unit owners, we own a portion of the common elements so you would feel an invasion of privacy ... but its a multi-level issue as well. Its a privacy issue but also a safety issue. While he understands that the police would not want to notify residents during a covert operation, he says there should at least be information shared after the fact so residents know about any safety concerns or risks in the building. Condo residents should also be aware that the condo board they elect may have to make these kinds of decisions, he said. This is totally a grey area, said Leanne Miller, who lives in a unit that was captured on the surveillance tapes, though she did not live there at the time. She said her understanding is her home starts inside her condo door. If the elected condo board gave permission for the police to install covert cameras in hallways without a warrant, then she said that would be acceptable. However, she said, its a responsibility the board should take seriously and is something condo residents should be aware of. Condo hallways are not comparable to a public sidewalk, she said but theyre not exactly part of her home either. The hallways of a condo building are under surveillance of some kind anyway, she said, so she has very little expectation of privacy even from video cameras. It does give her pause that the placement of one of the cameras would have allowed a partial view into her unit. Its a little excessive, she said. You are taking a grey area and making it a little bit darker. The Crown has not yet filed their arguments in response to the appeal. A hearing is set for April 8. LONDONCan Brexit be stopped? A force of exasperated Brits are trying. A petition calling for Prime Minister Theresa May to revoke Article 50 and remain in the European Union surpassed 4,151,000 signatures on Saturday, becoming the most popular petition ever hosted on the British Parliament website. The previous record was held by a 2016 petition calling for a second referendum on Brexit. That one garnered 4,150,262 total signatures. A petition to prevent President Trump from making a state visit to Britain received nearly 1.9 million signatures in 2017. Britains government responds to all petitions that gain more than 10,000 signatures and considers for debate all petitions that receive more than 100,000 signatures. The Stop Brexit petition is also the fastest growing on record. Launched on February 20, it has taken off in recent days. On Thursday morning, the petition had racked up more than 800,000 signatures. By Thursday afternoon, nearly 2,000 signatures being added every minute, according to a House of Commons spokesperson. By Friday, the signatures had risen to 3 million. Because of the sheer volume of traffic to the site and people fighting to add their names, the site went down at least twice drawing comparisons online to the failing British government. Read more: Anti-Brexit marchers swarm London streets, demand new vote The Latest: EU gives UK leader May 2 Brexit deadlines For EU, Brexit has trashed Mays strong and stable image In a speech at Downing Street this past week, May portrayed herself as on the side of the people in wanting to make Brexit happen. Those signing the petition contest that claim. The government repeatedly claims exiting the EU is the will of the people. We need to put a stop to this claim by proving the strength of public support now, for remaining in the EU. A Peoples Vote may not happen so vote now, the petition reads. Incredible. The #RevokeArticle50 petition has now passed 2.5 million signatures in a couple of days. Does Theresa May ever pause to consider that she is risking jobs, the economy, national security, and our global influence for something that the public does not even want? lawmaker David Lammy tweeted Friday. While some have expressed astonishment at the climbing number, others have been more skeptical, suspecting that bots and people using false details to claim British citizenship or residency could be involved. Thats what happened with the 2016 second referendum petition, and thousands of signatures were eventually removed. The surge of signatures comes just days before Brexit was supposed to happen. March 29 was the original departure date. But E.U. leaders granted Britain a reprieve this week, extending the deadline to at least April 12. If Parliament approved Mays withdrawal deal this coming week, that extension could be longer. In another sign of the momentum behind the anti-Brexit movement, thousands of people converged on central London on Saturday for a Peoples Vote march, calling for a second referendum. Read more about: Selene Saavedra Roman was nervous about going to work. Shes been a dreamer since 2012, when the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program first started. Born in Peru, shes lived in the United States for 25 years, but her immigration status has always been in the back of her mind. Which is why, when she got a job as a flight attendant, she decided to work for a regional company, Mesa Airlines, that wouldnt ask her to travel around the world. And its why she told the company she was a DACA recipient and didnt want to fly internationally. Yet, in February, Mesa scheduled her to fly to Mexico anyway, Saavedra Romans attorney said. And when she told them her concerns, the company wrongly assured her that she wouldnt have trouble re-entering the United States. But on Feb. 12, customs officials detained Saavedra Roman shortly after she landed in Houston on her return flight. She would remain in custody for another six weeks. She was released Friday evening, but advocates are pointing to her case as an example of how the Trump administrations attempts to end DACA and the tug-of-war with the courts that followed have confused recipients, their families, government agencies and private employers, muddling an already complex web of immigration policies. Theyve been lost in legal limbo and its getting quite ridiculous, Saavedra Romans attorney, Belinda Arroyo, said in an interview before her client was freed. Her case is basically the poster child for what happens when you leave these people in legal limbo. Read more: Flight attendant detained by immigration on return to US Arroyo acknowledged that Saavedra Roman made a mistake by leaving without seeking the governments permission permission that wouldve been denied anyway, since Trumps DACA order also ended the exemption that allowed recipients to leave and re-enter the country. But, Arroyo said, Saavedra Roman didnt know any of that. She relied on Mesa Airlines to determine whether she was able to leave and come back, and company officials made a mistake, Arroyo said. They could have consulted an immigration lawyer, or recommended Saavedra Roman do so. In a statement, the airliners chairman, Jonathan Ornstein, apologized and said he was asking authorities to drop any charges that stemmed from Saavedra Romans detention. It is patently unfair for someone to be detained for six weeks over something that is nothing more than an administrative error and a misunderstanding, Ornstein said. Saavedra Roman is married to an American citizen, a man she met while they were both in college at Texas A&M. She graduated in 2014, and the couple has been working to get her permanent residency. After her arrest, officials tried to revoke her DACA status, Arroyo said. They considered her an arriving alien, which gave her fewer rights than if she had been apprehended before leaving the country. And, paradoxically, because she has DACA status, it actually prevented authorities from deporting her, and was one of the reasons she was initially taken into custody, Arroyo said. A U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services spokesman, Steve Blando, said the agency doesnt comment on specific cases, but reiterated the Trump-era policy shift that prevents DACA recipients from getting permission to leave the country. In a statement, Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman Tim Oberle acknowledged officers released Saavedra Roman on Friday, pending adjudication of her immigration proceedings, though it wasnt immediately clear why she was released Friday and not six weeks ago. The agency says it makes its custody decisions on a case-by-case basis. David Watkins, Saavedra Romans husband, found out in a text message: Im being detained, please call the lawyer. I called, I texted, I screamed to the sky, he said. I dropped to my knees and screamed as loud as I could. Right then, he said, he knew they were headed for a legal maze he called it a quagmire but he didnt think it would be a month and a half before hed hug his wife again. The weeks that followed, Watkins said, were the hardest of their lives. In custody, Saavedra Roman struggled with anxiety and depression, he said. I think my wife is going to have PTSD for a long, long time, Watkins said in an interview, which he did from his car as he sped from his parents home in San Antonio to the detention centre in Conroe, near Houston. Hed seen her a handful of times since she boarded the flight to Mexico, but they had to look at each other through a thick plastic window, and they spent those visits revisiting the details of the immigration case, almost always through tears. After she got out, Saavedra Roman said she couldnt describe how it felt to be released. I cried and hugged my husband and never wanted to let go, she said in a statement. I am thankful and grateful for the amazing people that came to fight for me, and it fills my heart. Thank you to everyone that has supported. I am just so happy to have my freedom back. Arroyo and Watkins had negotiated with immigration agencies for weeks to get Saavedra Roman out of detention. Then their fears grew that the hearing process could stretch on indefinitely. At that point, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA a union that has sparred with the Trump administration before sounded its own alarms, publicly, Thursday night. In less than a day, Saavedra Roman became a symbol for those who oppose U.S. President Donald Trumps hard-line immigration stance a rule-abiding, tax-paying Texan who made an honest mistake and was paying an outrageous penalty. Major news outlets filed stories, more than 20,000 people signed a petition supporting her and national political figures championed her case. This is an awful story, tweeted Hillary Clinton before Saavedra Roman early Friday afternoon. Heartbreaking stories like Selenes underscore the cruelty of the Trump immigration agenda, said Democratic presidential candidate Julian Castro, a little more than four hours before she was released. The hundreds of thousands of DREAMers whose futures are jeopardized by this administration deserve better. Bernie Sanders celebrated in a tweet when he heard Saavedra Roman would be released Friday evening, but said there is still work to be done. Selene has been released, but the fight is not over! he said. She will be fighting her deportation in the upcoming months. It makes no sense to deport Dreamers like Selene from the only country they have known as home. We must stand with our immigrant sisters and brothers. Watkins said he and Saavedra Roman did not participate in much immigration activism in the past he was afraid what would happen if she marched and drew attention to her status. It was safer to keep their heads down, he said. But after all theyve experienced in the last six weeks, her inside the detention facility and him outside, they might reconsider it. The Washington Posts Maria Sacchetti contributed to this report. Read more about: In late 2015, epidemiologist Steffanie Strathdee and her husband, Tom Patterson, were in Egypt when Patterson came down with a bug. In time, it was diagnosed as a deadly, antibiotic-resistant superbug. As he lay in a California hospital bed, all options seemed to be exhausted. Strathdee, who grew up in Toronto, decided to research alternative ideas, and focused on phage therapy a pre-antibiotic treatment using a virus to kill bacteria. In most countries, phage therapy had fallen out of favour after penicillin came to market in the 1940s. Understandable, since antibiotics were true miracle drugs until antibiotic-resistant bacteria began to surface as a significant concern in 1959. The alarm over a coming pandemic of deadly antibiotic-resistant bacteria threatening human life had been sounded the world over with no apparent effect. Outdated ideas, ignorance, and plain prejudice had hobbled the scientific and medical community. Although phages were studied extensively by basic scientists in molecular biology and genetic engineering experiments, relatively few scientists had persisted to research phage for its therapeutic potential, most of them labouring in obscurity at universities or a few small biotechs. As much as some phage therapy proponents were eager to see it embraced as a potentially new way of treating antibiotic-resistant bacteria, bureaucratic hurdles and the lack of empirical data on efficacy had thwarted attempts to advance its clinical use in the Western world for more than a century, and that muddled past had muddied prospects ever since. Phage therapy clinics in Tbilisi [Georgia] and Wrocaw [Poland] advertised treatment and there were online accounts of some success stories, but few rigorous studies in humans had been published in English journals. I could not find a single article describing phage therapy to treat humans infected with Acinetobacter baumannii. It had been done in Petri dishes. In mice. A few rats. It seemed promising, but could I really justify turning my husband into a guinea pig? If things went sideways, how would I explain my decision to inject him with a legion of viruses to his daughters? Using viruses to chase bacteria reminded me of the childrens song about the old lady who swallows a spider to catch a fly: She swallowed the spider to catch the fly But I dont know why she swallowed the fly Perhaps shell die. It was after 11 p.m. and I was starting to fade, but heard a ping from Facebook messenger my colleague Maria Ekstrand in San Francisco who knew both Tom and me well wrote to tell me about a friend of hers who had flown to Tbilisi to have her MRSA infection treated at the Eliava Phage Therapy Center. It had worked. Another cosmic coincidence? Some might call it a sign, and maybe it was, but I needed more than a sign. I needed a path forward, even if I had to build it myself. I fired off an email to Chip [Dr. Robert Chip Schooley, a friend and infectious-disease specialist] attaching a research paper on A. baumannii phages I had found by Dr. Maia Merabishvili, a phage researcher from the Eliava Center who was now based in Brussels. I could just imagine Chips eyebrows twitching as he read my email. Dear Chip, I know that we are running out of options to save Tom, so I have been exploring alternatives to antibiotics. What do you think about phage therapy? I know it sounds a little woo woo, but it might be worth a shot. If I was going to try to obtain an experimental treatment to save Toms life, it was going to take an act of God, a lot of luck, and more energy than I might be able to muster. But just thinking about phage therapy gave me an adrenaline surge. Id loved my undergrad virology class years ago, and now the challenge was anything but academic. I couldnt help but find it profound that I had to return to my own past, my training, to bring an obscure thread of science forward to find a cure for Tom. And that the potential answer could have been there all along without me or anyone seeing it until now I could feel the excitement building in my gut. And it wasnt the knot of fear that Id been learning to live with since Luxor. Could this really be it? I checked my email again before going to bed. Chip was burning the midnight oil, too. He had already replied to my message. Its an incredibly interesting idea that would be worth thinking about although it might be slightly ahead of its time If you can find some phages with activity against Acinetobacter, I will give the FDA a call to see if they will issue an eIND [Emergency Investigational New Drug Application] for compassionate use. Chips positive response should have been nothing but exciting. But at first, I could only focus on two words: compassionate use. I stared at those words for a full minute. So, there we had it. Even Chip was admitting now that Tom was dying. I could just hear him reviewing Toms situation with Connie through his most objective lens. Chip was deeply empathetic, but hed told me once how, as a physician, you have to compartmentalize. You cant let yourself get so emotionally wound up that you cant function as your patients physician, or it means they dont have a physician, and thats worse. You have to be able to make scientifically and medically sound, pragmatic decisions. And the truth was, despite everyones hard work and hope, there was no way you could convince yourself that Tom was getting better. He was barely communicating. His kidneys were barely holding on. He needed pressors to maintain a livable pulse and he needed the vent to get enough oxygen. And the superbug wasnt the only thing killing him. His underlying issues the pancreatitis foremost and the collateral damage meant that his body was breaking down, bit by bit. His organ systems were failing. Our best hope now was that the FDA would decide that because he was going to die anyway, an experimental therapy was worth the risk. It had been a long-running joke between Tom and me that wherever we travelled, Tom collected local parasites or weird infections, always returning home with some malady or another. Like Cameron and his Pokemon cards. Tom had even quipped once, after our MRSA [infection] experience, that it was his goal to collect all six of those deadly ESKAPE pathogens. It had seemed funny at the time: Gotta catch em all! Now his next acquisition after Acinetobacter could be an entirely new character from a new deck of cards, one with protective powers, maybe the ace up his sleeve. At the hospital the next morning, I strode through the atrium feeling bathed in the light and the energy of possibility. The ride up to the TICU wasnt the usual discouraging descent into fear. And when I reached Bed 11, I was ready for a painful but important conversation. Tom and I needed to have another life or death talk. The first talk wed had like this was in the Frankfurt ICU, more than two months before two months of this near-death experience. Whatever Id said that day had triggered his fight response. Granted, today the trach vent made it a one-way conversation, but we had to do our best. I leaned close and took his hand in mine, hating the gloves I had to wear. I thought I detected Toms lips move at my touch, which was a good sign. Maybe he was just conscious enough to hear me. I told him the truth. The docs were now out of ammunition. They were all out of antibiotics, and he was not a candidate for surgery. So, if he wanted to live, hed need to fight again. This would be a fight for time, while I looked for an alternative treatment I didnt know if I could find. And a fight against the continuing deterioration of his body, beginning to trigger organ shutdowns. No guarantees of anything, except certain death if we both stopped trying. Remember we had that talk back in the Frankfurt ICU, where I told you that if you want to live, you have to fight? I began, and my voice faltered, catching in my throat. I swallowed and tried again. Honey, I know you have been fighting so hard, and youre very tired. The doctors here are doing all they can, but they tell me they cant do anything else. I knew that he knew this. In the still pause, I watched as a single tear welled up in the corner of his eye and spilled across his eyelashes. He blinked, but his eyes stayed closed as another tear trailed down his cheek. I let go of his hand, and wiped his face with a cloth. Later, I realized that Id clenched my other fist when I saw that my nails had a dug four red half-crescent moons into the palm of my hand. I want to grow old with you, Tom. But I dont want you to live just because I want you to. That would be too selfish. This is your life, not mine. I took a deep breath. And the thing is, its OK if you dont want to fight anymore. No clear response, if I was being objective, which admittedly was getting harder. He couldnt see me, but I was pretty sure he heard how my voice wobbled. I held his hand again gently. But if you want to fight, Im going to fight, too. Were in this together. I will leave no stone unturned. In fact, Ive been reading some articles on experimental treatment for multi-drug-resistant infections, and I have an idea I told him about the phages, how theyd evolved over millennia to become the perfect predator of their hosts bacteria. Of course, if he were awake, hed be chomping at the bit, asking a million questions. But I had to cover all the bases, an effort at informed consent, in case he could hear me. So, I laid it out. Longshot as treatments go. Sound science as far as it went but untested on humans infected with a fully antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii strain that had totally colonized the body. Experimental, which meant it could take time to get permission to use on him. And no guarantees that it would work or, even if it did, that hed recover from the damage already done. Im not sure how to do it yet, but maybe we can get you some experimental phage therapy. I squeezed his hand gently. If you want to try it, can you squeeze my hand? He seemed to stiffen but nothing. And then he squeezed back, hard. No retreat. That night, when I went to bed, even looking at the worst-case scenario with clarity, I didnt cry myself to sleep. I dreamed of wading waist-deep in a swamp, hunting for phages as if panning for gold. The water was murky and putrid, swirling with images of alien-looking phages, their heads the shape of microscopic geodesic domes and rocket ship tails trailing long filamentous fibres. When I looked down, I saw that I wasnt holding a miners pan, but the cracked bedpan from the clinic in Luxor. I woke in a panic and rubbed my face with sweaty palms. With relief, I realized it was just a dream. But for the first time waking up to the real-life nightmare of Toms illness, I felt more exhilarated, less hopeless. I leapt out of bed so fast I startled Newt and the kittens, who had curled around my knees while I slept. Now all I needed was to find some phages. How hard could that be? BAMAKO, Mali - Militia fighters descended on a village in central Mali before dawn Saturday, killing at least 115 people in the latest deadly attack blamed on an ethnic militia, local authorities said. The massacre in the village of Ogossogou left the village chief and his grandchildren dead in the ethnic Peulh community, according to a local official who had received detailed accounts from the remote area. The victims included pregnant women, young children and the elderly, according to Abdoul Aziz Diallo, president of a Peulh group known as Tabital Pulaaku. It was not immediately possible to independently corroborate the toll given by those in contact with survivors from the Peulh village. The U.N. mission in Mali confirmed reports of an attack but gave no figures. Militants from a Dogon group known as Dan Na Ambassagou have been blamed for scores of attacks over the past year, according to Human Rights Watch. The umbrella group comprises a number of self-defence groups from the Dogon villages among others. The growing prominence of Islamic extremists in central Mali since 2015 has unraveled relations between the Dogon and Peulh communities. Members of the Dogon group accuse the Peulhs of supporting these jihadists linked to terror groups in the countrys north and beyond. Peulhs have in turn accused the Dogon of supporting the Malian army in its effort to stamp out extremism. In December, Human Rights Watch had warned that militia killings of civilians in central and northern Mali are spiraling out of control. The group said that Dan Na Ambassagou and its leader had been linked to many of the atrocities and called for Malian authorities to prosecute the perpetrators. Malis Dogon country with its dramatic cliff landscapes and world renowned traditional art once drew tourists from Europe and beyond who hiked through the regions villages with local guides. The region, though, has been destabilized in recent years along with much of central Mali. ___ Associated Press writer Krista Larson in Dakar, Senegal, contributed to this story. BANGKOK - Thailand on Sunday held its first general election since the military ousted the elected government in a coup nearly five years ago. Thailand has a long history of cycling through elected governments that are then ousted by the army, which in time allows fresh elections. Heres a look the key political events since Thailands last general election. _____ July 3, 2011: The Pheu Thai Party led by Yingluck Shinawatra, the sister of fugitive former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, wins a landslide majority in the general election. Thaksin was ousted by a 2006 military coup and fled Thailand in 2008 to avoid serving a prison term for a conflict of interest conviction. Aug. 5, 2011: The House of Representatives elects Yingluck to become Thailands first female prime minister. _____ June 2012: Yinglucks ruling party pushes legislation to promote national reconciliation with the stated goal of ending the sometimes violent political conflict that has roiled the country since the 2006 coup. Critics charge it is meant to help Thaksin escape justice and return to Thailand as a free man. _____ April 2013: The constitutional Court rules that Yinglucks government cannot make amendments to the 2007 constitution, which was enacted by an interim government that had been installed by the 2006 coup. Nov. 1, 2013: Mass rally held against bill proposing amnesty for political offences committed since 2006. The protesters claim its main purpose is to vacate the conflict of interest conviction against Thaksin. Nov. 24, 2013: As many as 100,000 anti-government protesters rally in Bangkok, demanding that Yinglucks government step down. Nov. 29, 2014: Veteran Democrat Party politician Suthep Thaugsuban forms the Peoples Democratic Reform Committee to demand the dissolution of Yinglucks government and the establishment of an unelected peoples council to reform the country. Nov. 30, 2013-Jan. 31, 2014: The anti-government protests become increasingly violent, with pitched street battles against the police and forced occupations of government offices and installations that practically immobilized government functions. The army, which used armed force in 2010 to quash aggressive protests by supporters of Thaksin, does not intervene to defend the government. Dec. 9, 2013: Yingluck dissolves the House of Representatives and calls early elections for Feb. 2, 2014. Dec. 21, 2013: The opposition Democrat Party announces it will boycott the elections so that reforms of the sort demanded by the protesters can first be enacted. _____ Feb. 2, 2014: A general election is held but disrupted by anti-government protesters who prevent polling from being held in all areas. March 21, 2014: The constitutional Court rules the February election invalid because voting did not take place on the same day nationwide in violation of a constitutional clause. There had been fresh balloting in March in several provinces where protesters had prevented voting on the original election date. May 7, 2014: The constitutional Court removes Yingluck and several ministers of her caretaker government for abuse of power in connection with the 2011 transfer of a high-ranking civil servant. May 8, 2014: National Anti-Corruption Commission finds Yingluck guilty of criminal negligence for implementing a state rice-buying subsidy scheme. May 22, 2014: Army Commander Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha stages a coup, ousting the government, abrogating the constitution and outlawing political gatherings. He later becomes prime minister in addition to heading the ruling junta. _____ Aug 7, 2016: A national referendum approves a new constitution drafted under the auspices of the ruling junta, along with new rules governing how the prime minister is chosen. Campaigning against the proposed charter had been banned. Oct. 13, 2016: King Bhumibol Adulyadej dies at the age of 88, and a year-long mourning period is declared. He is succeeded by his son, who becomes King Maha Vajiralongkorn. _____ April. 6, 2017: The new constitution takes effect. Oct. 26, 2017: Cremation rites are held for the late king. _____ Jan. 23, 2019: The Election Commission announces the general election will be held on March 24, after several earlier target dates had been pushed back. Feb. 8, 2019: The Thaksin-affiliated Thai Raksa Chart Party registers the kings elder sister, Princess Ubolratana Mahidol, as its candidate for prime minister, breaking with the idea that members of the royal family are above politics. That same day, the king issues a royal order calling her registration inappropriate and contrary to the constitution. March 8, 2019: The constitutional Court dissolves the Thai Raksa Chart Party for registering the princess as its candidate for prime minister. March 24, 2019: Thailand holds general election. CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand - A Jordanian prince and the family of a slain 3-year-old boy and were among those who visited a New Zealand mosque Saturday when it reopened for the first time since a terrorist killed dozens of people there. Hundreds of people stopped at the Al Noor mosque in Christchurch to lay flowers or pray after police removed a cordon and those running the mosque decided to reopen. Inside the mosque, there were few signs of the carnage from eight days earlier. Crews had replaced windows that worshippers smashed in a desperate attempt to escape when the attacker mowed them down during Friday prayers. Bullet holes were plastered over and painted. There wasnt time to replace the carpet, which was pulled out and buried because it was soaked in blood. Shagat Khan, the president of the Muslim Association of Canterbury, said they hadnt planned to open the mosque so soon but when they saw the crowds gathering after the police cordon was removed they decided to allow people to enter in managed groups so the mosque will be alive again. Those who lost their families are of course quite emotional, he said. And those who were present here during the incident, of course the memories come back. The flashbacks. The gunman killed a total of 50 people at two mosques in Christchurch on March 15, in the nations worst terrorist attack. Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, has been charged with murder in the attacks and is scheduled to make his next court appearance on April 5. Abdullahi Ibrahim Diriye, the uncle of the youngest victim of the shooting, 3-year-old Mucaad Ibrahim, visited the mosque with the boys father. Diriye said he helped lift the boys coffin to a gravesite Friday as Mucaads mother wept. The coffin was very light with such a young child inside, he said. Always he was a happy boy, and he liked every person he met, not only Muslims, Diriye said. Prince Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, who travelled to New Zealand to pay his respects, hugged a man at the entrance of the mosque and told him to be patient. He was crying deeply from his heart for a loved one he had lost, the prince later explained. And I was saying, this is Gods will, be patient. Because only through patience can you endure. Prince Hassan said in the Middle East there have been wars every decade. To feel that this form of violence and cruelty is visited on you, living in this idyllic part of the world, is deeply, deeply moving, he said. Human dignity is being assailed on all fronts by extremists, he said, and people need to stand together as human beings. Officials say four Jordanian nationals died in the attack, while a 4-year-old Jordanian girl is also recovering in an Auckland hospital. Jereeth Abdeen, who was visiting from Auckland, said a friend of his escaped the attack. He said he found it hard to walk through the mosque, especially after glimpsing the gunmans livestream of the attack after it was sent to him on social media before quickly closing out of the link. Its terrible, he said. Nobody should do that in this world. Abdeen said he took some comfort that those killed were in a holy place and were about to pray. The sad thing is the way they died, he said. But our belief is they will be in paradise. CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand - Their voices have thundered across this heartsick city, in parks and at flower memorials and schools. Day after day, the students of Christchurch have gathered, feet smashing the ground in unison as they chant the words of their nations indigenous people in an outpouring of grief and love and support. In the aftermath of last weeks deadly shooting spree on two mosques blamed on a white supremacist, the young people of Christchurch have found solace in an old tradition: a Maori ceremonial dance called the haka. To much of the world, the haka is largely associated with New Zealands rugby team, the All Blacks, who perform it before games. That has led to a misconception that it is solely a war dance meant to inspire fear. But though it may have started out that way, the haka has evolved to mean so much more. Whenever I haka, I feel like I am from the tribe, standing with them that all their spirits are with us, said high school student Georgia Horiana Myers Meihana, after she and her classmates finished reciting a karakia, or Maori prayer, at a flower memorial. To us, it doesnt feel like were just shouting words. Millions around the world have viewed videos of the students hakas over the past week, with many people commenting that they have been moved to tears, even if they dont understand what the Maori words mean. Such a reaction is not surprising, says Tapeta Wehi, founder of the New Zealand performance group The Haka Experience. Ive performed haka around the world, and thats normal, Wehi says. I remember performing it in Germany, and I had these big German guys coming up to me with tears in their eyes, wondering why theyre crying. Its the inner spirit that we portray. Though hakas were traditionally performed by the Maori people in preparation for battle, they are not all about war, Wehi says. Hakas are performed to celebrate and to mourn, and are often part of important events such as funerals or 21st birthdays. In the aftermath of the shootings, Wehi says, people across New Zealand have performed hakas to show support and respect for the victims and their families. For the students, the haka has served as a powerful form of healing after a harrowing week in which they lost friends and the sense of safety that came from living in a nation previously largely immune to mass gun violence. Many New Zealand students learn how to perform hakas in school. Some schools have hakas specifically written for them; other schools teach traditional hakas. On Monday, more than a thousand students gathered for a vigil in the park across from one of the mosques that was attacked. White and Maori, Catholic and Muslim, they stood and performed a haka that held a particularly poignant meaning: It is the haka used by Cashmere High School, which lost two students in the attack. This haka, called Tahu Potiki, comes from the South Island Maori tribe Ngai Tahu, said Cashmere High Principal Mark Wilson. Tahu Potiki was an ancestor of Ngai Tahu, and the haka calls for his descendants to rise and claim their place in the new day, Wilson said. Being part of a haka group can be a powerful emotive moment, he said, one in which people are left uplifted and strengthened. In some ways, the students response to the attacks has been similar to the aftermath of last years mass shooting at a school in Parkland, Florida, where it was the voices of the youth that rose above the din. The students of Parkland around 30 of whom actually visited Christchurch last year united to demand gun law reform. In Christchurch, the students have united in an utter rejection of the intolerance spewed by the white supremacist accused of the massacre. It melts my heart, 15-year-old Seraphim Tempest said after joining in Mondays performance of the Tahu Potiki. Its just showing that everyones the same here and we accept everyone. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has encouraged students to turn to the haka in the wake of the attacks, particularly if they are struggling to express themselves. Never underestimate the power of just sending a message, looking out for someone, performing a haka, Ardern told students at Cashmere High after they performed the Tahu Potiki for her during a visit on Wednesday. There is power in that, because in doing that, you are sending a message of solidarity and of support. Fourteen-year-old Rayhan Satriawan was born in Indonesia, but later moved to New Zealand. Two of his friends were killed in the attack, something he is still struggling to understand. He hopes the message behind the students hakas will carry beyond Christchurch to the rest of the world that no matter how different people seem, he says, we are one. I want to stay strong, he says. Everything that I do in my life is going to be on behalf of the people who have died. And when the students stood to perform the Tahu Potiki at their vigil on Monday, their strength was clear in every stamp of their feet, every slap of their chest. Together, they roared: MARAKA! MARAKA! RISE UP! RISE UP! BERLIN - Authorities say one person was killed and a second seriously injured after getting caught in an avalanche in Austria. Police told the Austrian news agency APA on Saturday that the two people were part of a group who were in the Rax mountain range in Austria, near the town of Reichenau, when the avalanche hit in the afternoon. The seriously injured person was flown to a hospital by helicopter. Officials say no other people have been reported missing but that as a precaution the area was searched, and no signs of anyone else hit by the wet snow were found. There were no other immediate details on the two victims. KIEV, Ukraine - About 5,000 nationalist demonstrators have held a protest in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv calling for arrests in a defence industry corruption case. The Saturday protest was the latest in several weeks of demonstrations by supporters of the far-right focusing on corruption. A journalistic investigation in February reported that figures close to President Petro Poroshenko and a factory controlled by him were involved in an embezzlement scheme. It has become a top issue in the heated campaign ahead of Ukraines March 31 presidential election. Poroshenko is trying to get re-elected, but a deep recession, endemic corruption and a war with Russia-backed separatists that has killed some 13,000 people since 2014 are weighing heavily on his ambitions. NICOSIA, Cyprus - Cyprus government spokesman says authorities have arrested a Turkish Kurd against whom Germany has launched criminal proceedings for terrorist activities. Prodromos Prodromou said in a written statement Saturday that the individual had been recognized by Cyprus as a political refugee and had been granted Cypriot travel documents. He said the person was detained on the strength of a European arrest warrant. Prodromou said a court on Saturday ordered the suspect detained. He said the suspect, whose identity was not released, will remain in custody until a court rules whether to extradite him to Germany within 60 days of his arrest. BEIRUT - The announcement of victory over the Islamic State group in Syria marks the end of the extremists self-styled caliphate, a proto-state in which they held millions hostage to their dark and brutal vision. But IS, which traces its roots back to the bloody emergence of al-Qaida in Iraq after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion, has survived past defeats and is already waging a low-level insurgency in areas it was driven from months or even years ago. The grueling 4 1/2-year campaign to drive IS from the territories it once held has left entire towns and neighbourhoods in ruins, in both war-torn Syria and Iraq. If the long-standing grievances of Sunni Muslims in both countries continue to fester, the extremists could rise again. ___ WHAT HAS ENDED EXACTLY? What is over is the Islamic State groups physical caliphate, after the Syrian Democratic Forces, a Kurdish-led group supported by the United States, declared on Saturday the capture of the last tiny patch of territory controlled by the militants, in the eastern Syrian village of Baghouz. That domain once stretched over large parts of Syria and Iraq, which the group conquered in a blitz in the summer of 2014, capturing towns and cities, including Mosul, Iraqs second-largest. The fighters bulldozed berms along the border and proclaimed a contiguous caliphate stretching across a third of both countries. At its height, the territory was the size of Britain, stretching from near the northern Syrian town of Aleppo to the outskirts of the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, and home to 8 million people. The extremists governed under a harsh and violent interpretation of Islam. They massacred those who resisted their rule and beheaded hostages, including Western journalists and foreign aid workers, in gruesome videos circulated online. Alleged adulterers were stoned to death, those believed to be gay were thrown from the tops of buildings, and children were made to watch the atrocities as part of their brainwashing. The group captured thousands of women from Iraqs Yazidi minority, forcing them into sexual slavery. IS also carried out the more mundane actions of a state collecting taxes, printing school textbooks, minting its own currency and restoring public infrastructure. It was an experiment in statehood that not even al-Qaida ever tried on a significant scale. From its de facto capital of Raqqa, in northern Syria, its leaders plotted spectacular attacks abroad, including the 2015 Paris attacks that killed 130 people. As IS began to hemorrhage territory, it began opportunistically claiming attacks without any evidence of its involvement. The self-proclaimed caliphate attracted tens of thousands of people from around the world, lured by the groups online activism and slickly produced propaganda videos. Young, troubled men were eager to wage war against those branded enemies of Islam, while others were drawn to the promise of life in an Islamic state governed by Gods law. That physical caliphate was declared dead, for now. ___ WHAT IS THE COST OF LIBERATION? The grueling four-year air and ground campaign against IS has killed or wounded tens of thousands of people, driven hundreds of thousands from their homes and left a swath of destruction stretching from the suburbs of Damascus to central Iraq. The major cities IS once held Mosul, Raqqa, Fallujah and Ramadi have all seen major devastation. The group put up fierce resistance nearly everywhere, using civilians as human shields and launching waves of car bomb and suicide attacks. As it slowly retreated, it left behind booby traps and explosives that in many areas have yet to be cleared. The U.S.-led coalition dropped tens of thousands of bombs over Syria and Iraq to help its allies on the ground advance, sometimes pulverizing entire city blocks. Syrian government forces backed by Russian air power battled IS in some areas, as did Iraqs state-sanctioned militias, with help from Iran. The death toll from the campaign remains uncounted. In a report released last year, the coalition confirmed the deaths of 1,139 civilians in airstrikes conducted between August 2014 and November 2018. Rights groups say the number is much higher. An Associated Press investigation found at least 9,000 civilians died in the assault to retake Mosul alone. In Raqqa, the U.S.-backed campaign killed hundreds of civilians and caused destruction on a massive scale. Syria is still mired in civil war, and Iraq estimates it will need $100 billion to rebuild. Local leaders in Mosul say they need that much for their city alone. No one has offered to foot the bill, and hard-hit areas remain empty, even years later. ___ WHATS NEXT? The official declaration of victory is of mostly symbolic value. Thousands of IS militants have dispersed and gone to ground, and U.S. defence officials have warned that IS could stage a comeback in Syria within a year if military and counterterrorism pressure is eased. Theyve cut the trunk of this malignant tree, but they havent pulled up its roots, which are still capable of growing and spreading, Hisham al-Hashemi, a researcher in extremism and expert on IS, wrote in a Twitter post. Activists who closely follow the conflict in Syria already point to signs of a growing insurgency and sleeper cells carrying out assassinations, setting up flying checkpoints and claiming roadside bombs in liberated areas across Syria and Iraq. That insurgency could gain strength as President Donald Trump presses ahead with his planned U.S. withdrawal from Syria. The American commander overseeing the fight against IS, Gen. Joseph Votel, has warned that the group is far from being defeated, saying its leaders have dispersed and gone underground. What we are seeing now is not the surrender of ISIS as an organization but a calculated decision to preserve the safety of their families and preservation of their capabilities, he said earlier this month, adding that the insurgents are waiting for the right time to resurge. The withdrawal of American forces from eastern Syria would open the door for major turmoil as various actors including the Syrian government, allied with Russia and Iran race to fill the vacuum. IS was all but defeated once before, when U.S. forces withdrew from Iraq in 2011; experts warn it could stage another devastating comeback. And IS has established affiliates across Asia and Africa, and continues to be active in places like Afghanistan, Libya, Egypts Sinai Peninsula, Yemen and the Philippines. ___ WHAT ABOUT DETAINED FIGHTERS AND THEIR FAMILIES? Another major concern is jihadis finding their way back to Europe. Around 1,000 foreign fighters are currently being held in Kurdish-run prisons in northern Syria. Their wives many of them from Western countries and their children are in camps in northern Syria. Syrian Kurdish authorities are calling on countries to take back their nationals, saying they cannot afford to keep shouldering the burden. Trump has weighed in, calling on Britain, France, Germany and other European allies to repatriate their nationals and put them on trial. The U.S. does not want to watch as these ISIS fighters permeate Europe, which is where they are expected to go, he tweeted in February. But few countries are willing to bring back people they view as a security threat, posing a dilemma for the Kurdish-led forces as the U.S. prepares to withdraw. JERUSALEM - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was glowing as he stepped up to a podium in the backyard of his Jerusalem home to welcome U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to a holiday dinner. Less than an hour earlier, President Donald Trump had surprised the world by announcing that the U.S. would reverse policy and recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, a strategic plateau that Israel seized from Syria after the Six-Day War of 1967. Senior U.S. and Israeli officials had been told privately that such an announcement was in the works, but that it wouldnt come until Netanyahu visited Washington next week. Instead, Trump abruptly tweeted the news, delaying the Thursday dinner celebrating the Jewish holiday of Purim so Netanyahu could call the president to thank him. We have a miracle of Purim, Netanyahu said, beaming broadly at his wife, Sarah, the secretary of state and U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman, as they sat outside on a chilly evening. President Trump has just made history. The effusive praise of Trump by Netanyahu is characteristic of their mutually beneficial relationship, more pronounced than perhaps any previous alliance between leaders of the two countries. The surprise recognition of the Golan was just the most recent of many examples. The Trump-Netanyahu relationship has no precedent, said Alon Pinkas, a former Israeli consul-general in New York. They see eye to eye. Their unusual connection began as soon as Trump took office, when Netanyahu was among the first foreign leaders to visit the White House. Trump appreciates the praise Netanyahu has lavished upon him compared with the more restrained reaction from other foreign leaders. And boosting Israel plays well with his political base, which is heavy with conservative Christians who see it as a top priority. Trump has deputized son-in-law Jared Kushner, whose family has longstanding personal ties to Netanyahu, to work on a Middle East peace plan, though details of that strategy remain unclear. The value of the Golan announcement for Netanyahu appeared obvious at the backyard podium at the Purim dinner. He exuded a confidence that belied whatever concerns he may have about a series of corruption scandals and looming possible criminal charges that have engulfed him in recent months and turned Israels April 9 election into an unexpectedly close race between him and a popular former military chief. Netanyahu has denied all charges. For those on the fence, it will enhance his standing for sure, said Eytan Gilboa, professor of politics at Bar-Ilan University. The Golan Heights recognition, warm White House reception, personal dinner with Trump. It will both divert attention away from his pressing domestic concerns and make him appear as a great world leader. Their relationship will be on display again this coming week. Netanyahu will be in Washington for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee annual conference and will be hosted at the White House for a meeting and a dinner - his third trip there since Trump took over. Even before the Golan move, Trump has repeatedly and radically altered U.S. policies related to Israel, siding with Netanyahu at the expense of the Palestinians and to the dismay of longtime U.S. allies in Europe and others. He recognized Jerusalem as Israels capital, moved the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv, eliminated hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to the Palestinians, closed their representative office in Washington, and ended the decades-long practice of opposing Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank in what would be the core of a future Palestinian state. Trump also withdrew from the landmark 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which Netanyahu had fiercely opposed, and re-imposed stringent new sanctions on the country that Israel regards as an existential threat. And he pulled the U.S. out of several U.N. organizations, the U.N. Human Rights Council and UNESCO, citing anti-Israel bias in their agendas. But their association has not helped Trump win over Jewish American voters, and has complicated Netanyahus relationship with the American Jewish community, who vote overwhelmingly Democratic. Many have expressed dismay over Netanyahus close ties with the president. And Trump has used his Israel policies to needle his Democratic opponents. He routinely cites his support of Israel, not to mention his friendship with Netanyahu, as proof that critics are wrong when they say he fails to denounce white nationalism or anti-Semitism. And, he has used it as a cudgel to bash Democrats who are not in lockstep with his policies. The Democrats have very much proven to be anti-Israel, Trump said Friday. Theres no question about that. And its a disgrace. I mean, I dont know whats happened to them but they are totally anti-Israel. Frankly, I think theyre anti-Jewish. A strong majority of American Jews supported Democrats in the midterms and in 2016, but the party is divided over the U.S.-Israeli relationship. That came to a head last month, when freshman Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, one of the first Muslim women in Congress, insinuated that lobbyists with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, or AIPAC, were paying lawmakers to support Israel, a remark that drew bipartisan criticism. Nearly all of the declared 2020 Democratic presidential candidates, including Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, Beto ORourke and Kamala Harris, have said they wont attend the AIPAC conference this year, though other prominent party officials will be there. Jeremy Ben-Ami, president of J Street, a liberal pro-Israel organization, said the Trump-Netanyahu alliance has tested the committees traditional commitment to bipartisanship. J Street has encouraged Democrats who attend the upcoming AIPAC conference to use the stage to denounce Netanyahus hardline policies. When your role as an organization is to support those in power, you end up getting dragged along, he said. ___ Associated Press writers Josef Federman and Isabel DeBre contributed from Jerusalem; Lucey reported from Washington. WASHINGTON - Congressional Democrats plotted strategy Saturday as they awaited the conclusions of Robert Muellers Russia investigation, with senior lawmakers demanding full transparency and preparing for next steps if the results were favourable to President Donald Trump. House Democrats conferenced by phone to share what they knew about the probe and to discuss how to move forward. It was unclear when they would have more information from Attorney General William Barr, who received the report from Mueller on Friday. Barr was on pace to release his first summary on Sunday, people familiar with the process said. In a call with 120 House Democrats, Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she would reject any kind of classified briefing on the report and that he information must be provided to Congress in a way that would allow lawmakers to discuss it publicly. A person on the call described it on condition of anonymity because the session was private. Pelosi told Democrats that the American people deserve the truth, the person said. She has said that Barrs offer to provide Congress with a summary of conclusions was insufficient. Six committee chairmen also spoke on the call, reiterating the push for releasing the report and underlying documents. The conclusion of Muellers probe comes as House Democrats have launched several of their own into Trump and his personal and political dealings. And no matter what Mueller concludes, they say there is much more investigating to do. Its the end of the beginning but its not the beginning of the end, Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, a Democratic member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said in a Saturday conference call, echoing his partys strategy moving forward. Coons also issued a warning for his fellow Democrats, many of whom have pinned astronomical political hopes on Muellers findings: Once we get the principal conclusions of the report, I think its entirely possible that that will be a good day for the president and his core supporters. Democrats have said they have to see the full report from Mueller, including underlying evidence, before they can assess it. Those demands for information are setting up a potential tug of war between Congress and the Trump administration that federal judges might eventually have to referee. Six Democratic committee chairmen wrote in a letter to Barr on Friday that if Mueller has any reason to believe that Trump has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct, then the Justice Department should not conceal it. The president is not above the law and the need for public faith in our democratic institutions and the rule of law must be the priority, the chairmen wrote. The Democratic leaders asked various agencies including the Justice Department, FBI, National Security Agency, State Department, Treasury Department, CIA, IRS and the White House counsel to preserve the Mueller report, any underlying evidence and all investigatory materials compiled by the special counsel. Its unclear what Mueller has found related to the president, or if any of it would be damning. In his investigation of whether Trumps campaign co-ordinated with Russia to sway the 2016 election, Mueller has already brought charges against 34 people, including six aides and advisers to the president, and three companies. Lawmakers say they need that underlying evidence including interviews, documents and material turned over to the grand jury because the Justice Department has maintained that a president cannot be indicted and also that derogatory information cannot be released about people who have not been charged. So if the investigation did find evidence incriminating Trump, they may not be able to release it, under their own guidelines. The Democrats say it could be tantamount to a coverup if the department did not let Congress and the public know what they found. Barr testified at his confirmation hearings that he wants to release as much information as he can about the inquiry. But the departments regulations require only that the attorney general report to Congress that the investigation has concluded and describe or explain any times when he or Rosenstein decided an action Mueller proposed was so inappropriate or unwarranted that it should not be pursued. Barr said Friday there were no such instances where Mueller was thwarted. But anything less than the full report wont be enough for Democrats. If the AG plays any games, we will subpoena the report, ask Mr. Mueller to testify, and take it all to court if necessary, said Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-N.Y. The people deserve to know. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff told CNN on Friday that hes willing to subpoena Mueller and Barr, if needed, to push for disclosure. Though Trump himself has said the report should be made public, its not clear whether the administration would fight subpoenas for testimony or block the transmission of grand jury material. If the administration decides to fight, lawmakers could ask federal courts to step in and enforce a subpoena. A court fight could, in theory, reach the Supreme Court. But few tussles between Congress and the White House get that far. They often are resolved through negotiation. In both the Clinton and Obama administrations, even when talks failed and courts got involved in assessing claims of executive privilege, the White House decided not to take the fight to the high court and complied with lower court rulings against it. The Democrats, led by Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, could also formally ask Mueller to send his committee evidence that could be used in possible impeachment proceedings against Trump, as suggested by Benjamin Wittes, a senior Brookings Institution fellow and editor-in-chief of the Lawfare blog. Thats the course one of Nadlers predecessors followed during Watergate, although an impeachment inquiry against President Richard Nixon had already started by that point. Grand jury material from special counsel Leon Jaworski, provided through the federal judge who presided over the Watergate trials, became the road map that the House committee used to vote for articles of impeachment. Nixon resigned before the full House acted on his impeachment. Pelosi said recently that shes not for impeaching Trump, at least for now. ___ Associated Press writer Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report. WASHINGTON - The manila envelope in her hand held a single sheet of paper. Wearing a black puffer coat, the woman and her delivery were so unassuming in appearance that she was able to quietly slip past the crowd of reporters gathered in the hallways of the Rayburn House Office Building. Without being noticed, she managed to deliver to Congress the simple envelope that contained a monumental message: Special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into Russias interference into the 2016 election was over. The probe had taken nearly two years and imperiled a presidency. It divided Washington, delivered charges against 34 people and drew the wrath of President Donald Trump. Speculation about its findings, and when they would be delivered, had consumed Washington for weeks. Fittingly for Mueller, who never once spoke publicly about the probe, the investigation concluded in a by-the-book, under-the-radar manner. ___ Before dawn, television crews and photographers began lining the sidewalk outside Muellers Washington office. The stakeout had grown as the week went on and the speculation mounted. The media frenzy only grew after Mueller, who is rarely spotted outside his office, was photographed arriving just after 7 a.m. Thursday with his face hidden underneath a baseball cap as he pulled up to the offices parking garage in a grey Subaru. On Friday, the wind whipped as the journalists kept their eyes peeled on the offices three different garage entrances. Families and tourists visiting Washington stopped over and over to ask the crowd of photographers and videographers what they were waiting for, some amazed they were right in the middle of a story that had dominated news coverage around the world. In suburban Virginia, a crowd of journalists gathered outside Attorney General William Barrs house with their eyes glued on the forest-green front door of his home. As he emerged Friday morning, his keys in one hand and a brown satchel in the other, Barr greeted his security detail and hopped into the back of a waiting SUV in his driveway. He didnt address the group of reporters gathered across the street. ___ As the afternoon dragged on, reporters in newsrooms across Washington and onlookers around the globe furiously refreshed their Twitter feeds and stared at cable channels looking for anything labeled This Just In. Television bookers lined up experts days in advance and told them to be on standby in case the report dropped. Twitter users killed time by musing about Mueller as a man with a crippling case of writers block, just sitting at his computer with a spinning cursor over a blank document titled, simply, The Mueller Report. Its like waiting for a baby to be born, said Rudy Giuliani, who flew to Washington late Wednesday just in case the report was turned over. Ill hand out cigars if its good news. Giuliani may be the presidents attorney but he wasnt given any heads-up on the timing; he simply thought he should be near the White House just in case, he said. Im watching TV just like everyone else, Giuliani said. Even the president was forced to wait without any inside knowledge. As he strode onto the White House South Lawn on his way to Florida on Friday morning, he told waiting reporters that he had no idea about the Mueller report and warned again that the investigation was damaging for the country. As the engines from the idling Marine One helicopter roared, it was hard for reporters to immediately make out everything Trump said, though his repeated declaration of his catchphrase denial of any Russian wrongdoing No collusion was unmistakable. Trump was already at his lush Palm Beach estate, a thousand miles from the White House, when the waiting game finally, mercifully, quietly ended. ___ A security officer from Muellers office walked into the Justice Department headquarters, just steps from the National Mall, carrying a letter. As established by protocol, the document was to inform the attorney general that Muellers work was done. Within minutes, it was sent to Barr. Around 4:40 p.m., the attorney generals chief of staff, Brian Rabbitt, spoke to White House counsel Emmet Flood and told him the report was in and read to him a letter that would soon be distributed to House and Senate leaders. Amid the flurry of activity, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein called Mueller to thank him for his work over the last couple of years and expressed his appreciation for him and the team. At 5 p.m., the woman with the manila envelope arrived on Capitol Hill to deliver the letter to aides on the House and Senate Judiciary committees, which have oversight responsibilities of the department. She delivered the letter to lawyers for Rep. Jerry Nadler, the Democratic chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, and Republican Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia. The lawmakers were back in their home districts. Nadlers counsel scanned the letter and sent it to the congressman in New York. Soon after, staff for Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and California Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the top Democrat on the panel, received the letter. ___ Once the news dropped, and cable news stations splashed Breaking News chyrons across the television screens, elected official after elected official, some more relevant than others, released statements about the report, many calling for it to be made public immediately. Trump huddled with his attorneys at Mar-a-Lago but, for the moment, held his tongue and Twitter feed. Friday night, the president and first lady Melania Trump stopped by a Palm Beach County GOP dinner at his resort. Trump spoke for a few minutes but didnt mention the Mueller report, according to a senior administration official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to share details of the event, which was closed to the press. The official said Trump had a separate dinner with his family. Barr, in a far less glamorous setting, was reviewing Muellers report. In a letter to Congress, he said he may be able to provide some updates about the special counsels findings as soon as this weekend. And the waiting game began again. ___ Associated Press writers Eric Tucker and Catherine Lucey contributed to this report. ___ Follow Lemire on Twitter at http://twitter.com/@JonLemire , Balsamo at http://twitter.com/@MikeBalsamo1 and Jalonick at http://twitter.com/@MCJalonick PHOENIX - Arizona wildlife officials say three endangered Mexican grey wolves, including two in New Mexico, died last month. The Arizona Game and Fish Department said in a news release Friday that the latest incidents means there have been four wolf deaths so far this year. One from a pack in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest died after it was captured to replace a faulty GPS collar. Another from a pack in the north-central area of the Gila National Forest was found dead. The third wolf was a single collared one in New Mexico. Officials did not say in what part of the state it dwelled. All the deaths are under investigation. Efforts to reintroduce the endangered wolves in Arizona and New Mexico have been ongoing for two decades. COLUMBIA, S.C. - Democratic presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg told voters Saturday that his marriage to his husband exists by the grace of a single vote on the U.S. Supreme Court. The South Bend, Indiana, mayor visited South Carolina for the first time since announcing his presidential exploratory committee. The 37-year-old would be the first openly gay presidential nominee from a major political party. Buttigieg referenced the landmark 2015 Supreme Court ruling that granted, in a 5-4 decision, same-sex couples a right to marry. He married his husband, Chasten Glezman, last year. Speaking in Columbia, South Carolina, Buttigieg recalled when his father was undergoing chemotherapy and his mother learned she needed a triple bypass as an example of whats at stake in the 2020 presidential election. Buttigieg said Glezman was able to stay at the hospital with his mother while he went to tell his father because his husband is a member of our family. Other highlights of Saturdays campaigning: BERNIE SANDERS Sen. Bernie Sanders has a message for Kamala Harris: Hes going to win her home state of California. The Vermont senator made the boast during an outdoor rally in downtown Los Angeles that attracted thousands of cheering supporters at a city park and lined the steps of City Hall. Sanders, who finished behind Hillary Clinton in Californias 2016 presidential primary, is on a campaign swing through San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco. His voice echoing off downtown buildings, Sanders told the crowd that our job is to complete the revolution we began in his first campaign. He ticked through now-familiar proposals, including universal health care, bridging the wealth gap and legalizing marijuana at the federal level. He said that while President Donald Trump is dividing the nation, we are going to bring our people together. Sanders early visit to California is a sign that he plans an aggressive campaign in the state, the biggest prize in the 2020 primary. Standing in the crowd, Marcus Mason, 24, a writer from Los Angeles, said he backed Sanders in 2016 and is strongly leaning his way again. With him, Sanders signature proposal, Medicare-for-all, is a personal one: He sometimes lost his insurance moving from job to job. Id rather pay those taxes for a larger, inclusive health care system, Mason said. CORY BOOKER New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said during a stop in South Carolina that he was a little bit worried about how the issue of reparations was being discussed during the presidential campaign. Booker told people crowded into a barbershop in Rock Hill that it was time to discuss the persistent reality of racism in this country, rather than worrying about how to handle a specific plan on reparations. South Carolina holds the first Southern primary and is the first place where candidates are tested by a primarily black Democratic electorate. Several candidates in the sprawling Democratic field have called President Donald Trump as a racist. Some have voiced support for the idea of reparations for the descendants of enslaved black Americans. Booker, who announced his candidacy at the start of Black History Month, has said it is time to recommit to the fight for justice in America. ELIZABETH WARREN Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren confronted the topic of climate change during a campaign stop in Berlin, New Hampshire, saying the government is badly out of sync is with the future of America. Were not spending money on infrastructure right now, were not even repairing whats falling apart in infrastructure, much less building an infrastructure for the 21st century, much less hardening an infrastructure against the kind of change that is coming in our direction, Warren said. The presidential contender railed against giant drug companies and emphasized a message of economic equality during her speech. Warren later praised the idea of the Green New Deal, saying she wanted to make a strong pitch in favour of it to voters. Weve got to have a goal that were headed toward, she said. KAMALA HARRIS California Sen. Kamala Harris introduced her first policy proposal since officially launching her 2020 campaign: a significant federal investment in teacher pay. At a Houston rally, Harris pledged that by the end of her first term she would close a pay gap that she said amounts to teachers making about $13,000 a year less than other college graduates. Her campaign is citing a study from the liberal-leaning Economic Policy Institute that found whats called the teacher pay penalty the difference in compensation for teachers and comparable public workers is larger than ever. The Economic Policy Institute study puts the teacher compensation penalty at a record-high 11.1 per cent in 2017. AMY KLOBUCHAR During a town hall in Rye, New Hampshire, Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar defended John McCain, the deceased military veteran and senator who has been the subject of scorn from President Donald Trump. Klobuchar called McCain her friend and said Trumps ranting and raving about the Arizona Republican led her to remember the last time she had seen the Arizona Republican, who ran for president in 2000 and 2008. Klobuchar and her husband visited McCain and his wife at their ranch. McCain was having trouble speaking, she remembered. He found one of his books and pointed out a quote to Klobuchar. There is nothing more liberating than fighting for a cause larger than yourself, the quote read, she said. Trump, she said, doesnt understand that sentiment. PETE BUTTIGIEG At a stop in Greenville, South Carolina, Buttigieg told a crowd that his candidacy may seem unlikely, but added that maybe it was time the party nominated a millennial from a red state. He acknowledged the more traditional route to the White House is to spend years in Washington before running. But he said the country would be better served if Washington started looking more like our best-run cities. Buttigieg said that as a millennial he has a greater stake in the future of the country and more urgency to tackle issues like climate change. BETO OROURKE ORourke decried the Trump administrations attempt to add a citizenship question to the 2020 census, telling voters packed into the living room of a suburban Las Vegas home Saturday night that people, including those in the citys Latino and immigrant communities, should not live in fear and that everyone should be counted, regardless of status. The former Texas congressman also praised Sanders, telling reporters that hes glad the Vermont senator is also seeking the Democratic nomination. ORourke said the country owes so much to Sanders for his persistence and leadership to move the country closer to embracing universal health care. ORourke, who has called for the legalization of marijuana nationwide, recounted how he drove past the citys legal marijuana dispensaries on the way into down and questioned, Why are we still arresting and jailing people for that substance in other states? ___ Woodall contributed from Littleton, New Hampshire. Associated Press writers Meg Kinnard in Rock Hill, South Carolina; Juana Summers in Washington; Michelle L. Price in Las Vegas and Paul J. Weber in Houston contributed to this report. FAIRBANKS, Alaska - Medical experts will go to the Fort Wainwright Army post in Fairbanks to study suicide. The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reported on Friday that the team is coming at the request of Republican Rep. Don Young and U.S. Army Alaska Maj. Gen. Mark ONeil. The study is in response to a perception that there has been a recent spike in suicides at Fort Wainwright. The exact number of recent suicides at Fort Wainwright is fluid because several deaths remain under investigation. U.S. Army Alaska didnt immediately have statistics available Friday related to past rates of suicide at Fort Wainwright. U.S. Army Alaska spokesman Lt. Col. Martyn Crighton says he believes this is the first time this type of study is being conducted in Alaska. He says the timing of the study has not yet been announced. ___ Information from: Fairbanks (Alaska) Daily News-Miner, http://www.newsminer.com SEATTLE - A Washington state police officer who was wounded in a shootout that killed one of his colleagues has been released from a Seattle hospital. Kittitas police officer Benito Chavez was shot in the leg and suffered a shattered femur Tuesday evening when he and Kittitas County sheriffs deputy Ryan Thompson confronted a road rage suspect who opened fire on them. Thompson, who was 42, was killed, as was the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Juan Manuel Flores Del Toro. KING-TV reported that the 22-year-old Chavez was released from Harborview Medical Center on Saturday afternoon and that his escort back to central Washington included by Seattle and Bellevue police vehicles. Thompson left behind a wife and three children. The county has established memorial funds to support his family, and a memorial is planned for next Thursday at Central Washington University. ___ Information from: KING-TV, http://www.king5.com/ PITTSBURGH - The father of a slain black teenager pleaded for peace Saturday after the acquittal of a white police officer triggered an apparent retaliatory shooting at the defence attorneys office and touched off protests in the streets of Pittsburgh. Police put officers on 12-hour shifts until further notice. The verdict late Friday in the deadly shooting of 17-year-old Antwon Rose II angered his family and civic leaders and prompted hundreds of people to gather Saturday afternoon at an intersection called Freedom Corner in the Hill District neighbourhood, the historic centre of black cultural life in Pittsburgh. One man held a sign with the names of black men killed by police around the U.S. Its very painful to see what happened, to sit there and deal with it, Roses father, Antwon Rose Sr., told the crowd. I just dont want it to happen to our city no more. Afterward, he told reporters: I want peace, period, all the way around. ... Just because there was violence doesnt mean that we counter that with violence. The mostly white crowd then marched through downtown Pittsburgh and other city neighbourhoods, periodically blocking streets as they chanted, Who did this? Police did this! The protest soon moved onto the University of Pittsburgh campus. Police reported no immediate arrests or injuries. Early Saturday, five to eight shots were fired into the building where the officers attorney, Patrick Thomassey, works, police in nearby Monroeville said. No one was hurt. Police said they had been staking out the place as a precaution, and the gunfire erupted after they left to answer another call around midnight. Former East Pittsburgh police Officer Michael Rosfeld had been charged with homicide for shooting Rose as the unarmed teenager ran away from a traffic stop in June. Rosfeld testified that he thought Rose or another suspect had a gun pointed at him and that he fired to protect himself and the community. I hope that man never sleeps at night, Roses mother, Michelle Kenney, said of Rosfeld after the verdict, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none. Roses family is now pressing ahead with a federal civil rights lawsuit filed against Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh, a small municipality about 10 miles (16 kilometres) from downtown Pittsburgh, where the trial was held. Attorney S. Lee Merritt, who represents Roses mother in the litigation, said the verdict was based on Pennsylvania law regarding the use of force that he considers unconstitutional. The protest is an appropriate response to injustice, Merritt said, adding that he believes the state law is why jurors reached their verdict of acquittal. He also called the shots at Rosfelds attorneys office an act of cowardice and barbarism that does nothing but perpetuate the stereotypes often used to justify police brutality. Thomassey told reporters after the verdict that Rosfeld is a good man, he is. The defence attorney said he hopes the city remains calm and everybody takes a deep breath and gets on with their lives. The leaders of two major Pittsburgh charities issued a statement expressing shock and outrage over the verdict. Pittsburgh now sadly joins a disturbing and ever-growing catalogue of cases across the United States where law enforcement or security officials have walked free after the killings of young black men under questionable circumstances, wrote Maxwell King, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Foundation, and Grant Oliphant, president of the Heinz Endowments. We have asked the question, Would Antwon Rose be alive today if he had been white? We, his family and African American community leaders believe that more than likely he would be. Pittsburgh was in the spotlight less than five months ago, when a gunman ranting about Jews killed 11 people at a synagogue. Rose was riding in an unlicensed taxi that had been involved in a drive-by shooting minutes earlier when Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot the teenager in the back, arm and side of the face. Neither Rose nor another teen in the taxi was holding a weapon when the officer opened fire, though two guns were later found in the vehicle. Rosfeld had worked for the East Pittsburgh Police Department for only a few weeks and was sworn in just hours before the shooting. The 12-person jury including three black members saw video of the fatal confrontation. The jury took less than four hours to reach a verdict. Prosecutor Jonathan Fodi argued that the video showed there was no threat to the officer. But a defence expert testified Rosfeld was within his rights to use deadly force to stop suspects he thought had been involved in a shooting. The prosecution did not call its own use-of-force expert, a decision the American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania questioned. But Mike Manko, a spokesman for the district attorneys office, said prosecutors were confident they had what they needed to make their case. Shortly before the traffic stop, another person in the taxi, Zaijuan Hester, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street, hitting one in the abdomen. Hester, 18, pleaded guilty last week to aggravated assault and firearms violations. He said he, not Rose, did the shooting. Prosecutors had charged Rosfeld with an open count of homicide, meaning the jury had the option of convicting him of murder or manslaughter. ___ Associated Press journalists Michael Rubinkam in northeastern Pennsylvania, Ramesh Santanam in Pittsburgh and Keith Srakocic in Pittsburgh contributed to this story. ___ This story has been corrected to show that shots were fired into the lawyers building early Saturday, not early Friday. WASHINGTON - To Democratic supporters, the Green New Deal is a touchstone, a call to arms to combat climate change with the full measure of the nations resources and technological might. A mission to save all of creation, in the words of Massachusetts Sen. Edward Markey, one the plans lead authors. To Republican opponents, the much-hyped plan is a dystopian nightmare, a roadmap to national bankruptcy in pursuit of zealous environmentalism. A big green bomb for the economy, says Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming. Lost in the clamour is the reality that, if passed, the Green New Deal would require the government to do absolutely nothing. It exists only as a nonbinding resolution because Democrats have yet to fill in the potentially treacherous details of how to pay for the Green New Deal, how to carry it out and what, exactly, it will do. Announced to great fanfare in February, the Green New Deal calls for a 10-year national mobilization on the scale of the original New Deal to shift the U.S. economy away from fossil fuels such as oil and coal and replace them with renewable sources such as wind and solar power. It calls for meeting 100 per cent of the power demand in the United States through clean, renewable and zero-emission energy sources, including nuclear power. The plan has broad support among Democratic activists, and all six of the 2020 presidential contenders serving in the Senate have signed on as co-sponsors, putting it at the forefront of the partys sprawling primary race. Republicans have mocked the Green New Deal as a progressive pipedream that would drive the economy off a cliff and lead to a huge tax increase. They call it more evidence of the creep of socialism in the Democratic Party, along with Medicare for All and a sweeping elections reform package that would allow public financing of congressional campaigns. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, who has scheduled a vote on the resolution next week, has led the GOPs assault on the Green New Deal, jabbing at it repeatedly at news conferences and in floor speeches. Just a good old-fashioned, state-planned economy. Garden-variety 20th-century socialism, McConnell said in a recent speech. Our Democratic colleagues have taken all the debunked philosophies of the last hundred years, rolled them into one giant package, and thrown a little green paint on them to make them look new. Utah Rep. Rob Bishop went further, calling the proposal tantamount to genocide for rural America and warning it could outlaw hamburgers, among other things. In truth, the text of the resolution makes no reference to banning cows, but Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York the main Democratic co-sponsor with Markey has said in interviews that the U.S. has got to address factory farming to combat climate change. McConnell and other Republicans frequently cite a whopping $93 trillion price tag for the resolution, a figure derived from a right-leaning think-tank that even its author says is overly precise. President Donald Trump has rounded that up to $100 trillion and warns it would shut down American energy. The attacks have succeeded in putting Democrats on the spot, with some backing the resolution, others downplaying it as aspirational and those in positions of power such as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi calling it one proposal among many to address climate change. Ocasio-Cortez and the other backers are undeterred. They insist the nation can eliminate carbon emissions by 2030 a target most experts call unrealistic and say a transformation of the nations energy use is simply a matter of political will. Leader McConnell thinks the Green New Deal is just a resolution, but the Green New Deal is a revolution, said Markey. The Green New Deal has struck a powerful chord in this country, and it is igniting the movement of young people who are ready to make this the organizing issue for their generation. The plan goes far beyond energy to urge national health care coverage and job guarantees, high-quality education and affordable housing, as well as upgrading all existing buildings in the United States to be energy-efficient. In calling for a vote, McConnell hopes to test how far Senate Democrats including the presidential candidates are willing to go to accede to the partys newly empowered liberal wing, at the risk of leaving moderate voters behind. Major labour unions, traditionally aligned with Democrats, oppose the plan. The AFL-CIO says it makes promises that are not achievable or realistic, adding that the union will not stand by and allow threats to our members jobs and their families standard of living go unanswered. Democrats hope to thwart McConnell by voting present on the resolution. The idea is to signal their disgust at what they call a sham vote that seeks to quash public debate by blocking public hearings or expert testimony about the consequences of inaction on climate change. We know they dont like the Green New Deal, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said of Republicans. But what is their plan then? Jason Grumet, president of the independent Bipartisan Policy Center, said climate change has inspired magical thinking on both sides of the political divide. Most members of the Republican Party believe that climate change is real but tend to avert their eyes when people say its not, because why pick up the fight? Grumet said at a Senate hearing this month. And most Democrats know were not going to eliminate fossil fuels in 10 years or go to 100 per cent renewables as power sources, he said. But they kind of avert their eyes because thats where the energy of the party is and nobody wants to be on the wrong end. And we just end up ceding to the edges of both parties. PITTSBURGH - The Latest on the homicide trial of a white Pennsylvania police officer in the shooting of an unarmed black 17-year-old (all times local): 2:55 p.m. The father of a black teenager shot and killed by a white police officer outside Pittsburgh says its very painful to see what happened, to sit there and deal with it. Antwon Rose spoke to hundreds who gathered in the city Saturday to protest a jurys acquittal of former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld. He had been charged with homicide in the shooting of 17-year-old Antwon Rose II last summer. Roses father says I just dont want it to happen to our city anymore. Protesters chanted protect our sons before marching toward downtown Pittsburgh, blocking a street and yelling no justice, no peace. The presidents of two Pittsburgh-based charities issued a statement Saturday saying they share a sense of shock and outrage at the acquittal. ___ 12:20 p.m. Police say someone fired about five to eight shots at the office of former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfelds attorney after Rosfeld was acquitted of homicide for shooting an unarmed teenager. Authorities say theyre canvassing security cameras for footage. Monroeville Police Chief Doug Cole said Saturday no one was inside the building that houses the office of attorney Patrick Thomassey when shots were fired the night before. Rosfeld, who is white, was acquitted of all charges Friday in the June shooting of Antwon Rose II, a black 17-year-old high school student. Cole said officers had been keeping an eye on the office after the verdict, but the shooting occurred while they were called away on another matter. The chief says a vehicle was involved but they dont have a description yet. ___ 10 a.m. Gunshots were fired into the law office of former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfelds attorney, hours after Rosfeld was acquitted of shooting an unarmed black teenager last year. Lawyer Patrick Thomassey tells WTAE-TV on Saturday he was called after midnight about shots fired into the Monroeville building. Thomassey tells the station he wasnt hurt and found three to four bullet holes. A jury cleared Rosfeld of criminal homicide charges Friday after Rosfeld testified about shooting to death 17-year-old Antwon Rose II. Rose ran from a vehicle Rosfeld had pulled over while investigating a drive-by shooting. Protesters marched through parts of Pittsburgh after the verdict, but the mayors office says they have no reports of arrests or property damage. No protests were seen yet Saturday morning. ___ 1:15 a.m. The family of an unarmed black teenager fatally shot by a white police officer is expressing anger and sadness over a jurys decision to acquit. Pittsburgh is bracing for protests a day after the verdict. Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld was charged with homicide for shooting 17-year-old Antwon Rose II last June. Rosfeld walked out of the courtroom a free man Friday after jurors rejected a prosecutors argument that he acted as Roses judge, jury and executioner. The verdict leaves Roses family to pursue the federal civil rights lawsuit they filed last August against Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh. Thats a small municipality about 10 miles (16 kilometres) from downtown Pittsburgh. Rosfeld says he thought Rose or another suspect had a gun pointed at him. ___ Associated Press writer Michael Rubinkam in northeastern Pennsylvania contributed to this story. WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - The U.S. will host a delegation from China led by Vice Premier Liu He early next month, following a trip by U.S. officials to China in an effort to improve trade relations, the White House said Saturday. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said President Donald Trump is sending U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to Beijing starting next week, joined by deputy U.S. Trade Representative Jeffrey Gerrish and other senior Trump administration officials. Vice Premier Liu He and other Chinese officials meet with officials in Washington starting April 3, Sanders said. The trade dispute began last year after the U.S. made several complaints, including that China was stealing U.S. trade secrets and was forcing companies to give them technology to access its market. Trump imposed tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese imports, about half what the United States buys from that country. China retaliated with tariffs on about $110 billion of U.S. items. Chinas commerce ministry had previously said Lighthizer and Mnuchin would be in China on Thursday and Friday for the eighth round of trade negotiations. The scheduled talks suggest the two sides believe they can make at least some progress. Trump said Thursday at the White House that, Talks with China are going very well. Administration officials say they speak with their Chinese counterparts on a nearly daily basis. Business lobbyists say that a key sticking point is what type of enforcement mechanism will be included in the agreement. The Trump administration, they say, wants to have the option to impose tariffs on Chinese goods if China doesnt abide by the terms of the pact. The U.S. also wants China to promise not to retaliate against those tariffs. Still, business groups say the talks are making progress. Throughout most of the 20th century and beyond, Canadians elsewhere in the country could serenely ignore provincial elections in Alberta, certain that voting day there would produce a walloping Social Credit or Progressive Conservative majority. There were, granted, occasional alarms. Not least of which when the formidable Peter Lougheed put an end to the Socred dynasty in 1971 and in response to PM-Trudeau-the-Elders National Energy Program began flexing Albertas petro-muscle to a chorus of Let the Eastern bastards freeze in the dark. Usually, however, Albertas internal idiosyncracies provided the rest of the country with comic relief from the thunderings of Bible Bill Aberhart, to the bafflements of Socred economics, to the rise of Ralph Klein as an outrageously populist Fordian prototype. No longer can Canadians outside Alberta afford to avert their gaze. Premier Rachel Notley, who this week called an election in Alberta for April 16, pulled off an eye-popping upset four years ago to become head of that provinces first New Democratic Party government. Now she is an endangered species, last of the women premiers of the last two decades. Since Notleys election, much has happened to alter the national and Alberta landscape. The federal Conservatives of dour Stephen Harper were replaced by the sunny-way Liberals of Justin Trudeau. Unite-the-Right, the sequel, saw the Progressive Conservatives merge with the Wildrose Party in July 2017 to become the United Conservative Party led by former Harperite Jason Kenney. Alberta, in the Notley years, has engaged in border skirmishes and trade wars with British Columbia, threatening to turn off the oil taps (and banning B.C. wines) over its western neighbours inhospitality to the Trans Mountain pipeline. In seeking a second mandate, Notley who remains personally popular even as her New Democrats trail the UCP in most polls has commenced a campaign that will have national consequences and from which federal players will draw lessons for the national vote soon to follow. Climate change, the carbon tax, political corruption and racism are among the themes that will play large in both votes. Notley remains committed to a carbon tax. We cant pretend that climate change isnt there, she has said. We have an obligation as a world-leading energy producer to show leadership on it. But in 2018, after a federal court ruling that halted Trans Mountain, Notley withdrew from the federal carbon-pricing plan until shovels were back in the ground on the pipeline. To be sure, she has a more complex message to sell on the file than Kenney just as Trudeau will when he faces off against federal Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer. Any climate change plan that ignores working people is a plan doomed to fail, she once tweeted. Any economic plan that ignores climate change is setting our kids up to fail. We can tackle climate change and still protect our good energy industry jobs and thats exactly what were going to do. For his part, Kenney markets much-easier-to-grasp hard verbs. End, halt, eliminate. He has promised to scrap the carbon tax. In fact, he has said it would be the first act of a UCP government. Hes banking that Albertans, after having grown used to prosperity, are focused in these more trying times on the economy and jobs. There can be little doubt that the hyper-partisanship of a Premier Jason Kenney would impact federal-provincial relations. It would embolden the right-wing Doug Fords and Scott Moes of Canadas premierial class. And it would cause considerable discomfort to Trudeau, should he be re-elected. But Kenney carries his own burdens into the election. In January, a former Alberta MLA quit his local UCP board after complaining of backroom dealing, corruption and top-down control. The 2019 campaign was launched amid allegations that Kenneys camp colluded with another candidate to undercut his chief rival in the UCPs 2017 leadership race. Notley plainly calculated that campaigning against a rival under ethical clouds offered her the best line of ascent on the uphill struggle to re-election. The larger picture is, Notley said, in what she clearly hopes will become that fabled beast, the ballot question: Who can you trust? Justin Trudeau will be watching, too, for fallout from such questions and from the resignation of a star UCP candidate over racist social media posts. Caylan Ford reportedly lamented, in Facebook chat messages obtained by CBC News, that she was saddened by the demographic replacement of white peoples in their homelands. She also reportedly wrote that there was a double standard for white supremacist terrorists and questioned whether LGBTQ parades had redeeming value. Kenney had touted her as a remarkable candidate and the personification of the new generation of leadership. But as the campaign began, Kenney condemned the remarks. Trudeau will surely be gauging the consequence of such views. In recent days, spotting an opportunity, he has attacked Scheer for such missteps as an appearance at a rally also attended by a white supremacist and a failure to immediately denounce the massacre in New Zealand for the anti-Muslim obscenity it was. So stay tuned. In its themes if not its details, the Alberta election will in many ways be a preview for the federal campaign to come. Read more about: Is Ontarios move to mandatory e-learning off the mark? In a massive shift to digital coursework, Ontario will soon require high school students to earn four online credits before they graduate a first in North America. But with few details about the move, which begins in 2020-21, critics are questioning the rapid push to so much virtual learning so soon. Although e-learning classes provide a modernized learning experience for students, these courses are not a good fit for everyone, said Amal Qayum, president of the Ontario Student Trustees Association, which found in a 2017 survey of teens that three-quarters felt online lacked when compared to a regular classroom setting. The group called on the Ford government to reverse the rule mandating that all secondary school students take four e-learning courses out of the 30 required for graduation as different learning styles cannot be accommodated by an all-encompassing change in graduation requirements. The governments plan would see teens earn one e-learning credit a year in online classes with an average of 35 students. Further information will be available at a later date, said Kayla Iafelice, a spokesperson for Education Minister Lisa Thompson. Have your say Speaking in the legislature, Premier Doug Ford said were focusing on technology as well as a package of education reforms that will also see the average secondary school class jump from 22 students to 28 over the next four years. But NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said with larger classes and an estimated loss of 10,000 teaching positions the Ford governments plan for our kids (is) fewer teachers, larger class sizes, more Googling. The premier says he consulted with parents, Horwath said. Can he tell us how many of those parents asked for larger class sizes and learning from YouTube? A handful of American states already require one mandatory online course in high school, while others simply recommend it. In Ontario, about 50,000 high school students took at least one online course in 2018. Clare Brett of the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, who has been researching online learning for 30 years, said on the face of it, its a good idea. Its a good experience for students to get if its a good experience. Shes said quality, however, can be an issue, and shes also not keen on the credits being mandatory. What does it mean? You do not graduate if you dont have four credits? The government has said students with special needs can be exempt. Some U.S. studies have shown online achievement equal to or marginally better than in school, though concerns about higher dropout rates are common. However, Brett said that could be because its the easiest thing for students to drop and pick up later. Harvey Bischof, president of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation, said there is a value in online education in certain cases, especially in remote and rural areas where there is not a broad range of course offerings. For students who are highly motivated, they can work well, but our experience shows that credit delivery through online learning is not very efficient, whatsoever, Bischof said. VANCOUVERThe family of a missing Indigenous woman says a clerical error led police to say she had been found when in fact she had died and her body was decomposing in a downtown Vancouver public housing unit. The body of 34-year-old Lila Moody-Ogilvie was discovered March 10 in the Marble Arch Hotel, the single-room occupancy hotel she lived in. According to her family, she was last seen alive around Feb. 22. For two weeks, Lilas family and friends frantically searched for her, putting up posters around town and knocking on doors. Her father, Bruce Ogilvie, said he reported her missing to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) on Feb. 28. On March 3, Bruce said, a staff member at the VPD told him over the phone that his daughters case had been removed from the missing persons list because an officer would have contacted her. Three days later, he said, a police officer called and apologized for a mistake on her file, saying Lila was still missing and had been put back on the missing persons list. He said this was through a clerical error, shed been taken off and now shes back on and they were doing everything they could to find her, recalled Bruce, 68, a retired federal civil servant. Four days after that, she was found dead in the room next door to hers on the top floor of the Marble Arch Hotel, Bruce said. When Bruce arrived at the hotel, there were two police cars, an ambulance and a fire truck stationed outside. Bruce thought, I have to be the one to tell her mother, so I called her right then, he said. I said ... Whos in the house with you? Grab that person and hold. I said, Our baby girl is gone. Lila leaves behind a five-year-old son who is being looked after by Lilas mother. VPD media relations officer Sgt. Jason Robillard said he could not confirm Bruces account or otherwise speak specifically to Lilas case because the file is now with the provincial coroners office. Asked for information on Lilas death, the BC Coroners Service said it was notified March 10 of the death of a woman in her mid 30s in the 500 block of Richards St., where the Marble Arch Hotel is located. The coroners office confirmed she died some time in February. The hotel is managed by Atira Womens Resource Society, a non-profit that offers services to women struggling with violence, substance use or other problems. Janice Abbott, Atiras executive director, said her organization followed its policies by filing a missing persons report 48 hours after staff last had contact with Lila. She said staff at the Marble Arch Hotel canvased the building looking for her, but Vancouver police did not. Abbott said Atiras policy is to ensure tenants are seen at least every 24 hours. If someone is not seen in that time, staff will do whats called a health and wellness check. This includes knocking on a tenants door and, if no one answers, staff will enter the room. The only time health and wellness checks are not done on a unit is if the tenant has notified staff they will be away, Abbott said. Bruce said he believes someone lived in the room where Lilas body was found but doesnt know whether the occupant was away at the time. Asked why Lilas body was undiscovered for at least 10 days, despite being next door to her own room, Abbott said she could not comment without breaching the privacy of her organizations clients. I can tell you ... this is the first time anything like this has ever happened, Abbott said. Lilas boyfriend, Shane Amendt, was an office co-ordinator at the Marble Arch Hotel. He left the job March 4, saying Atira completely failed her. Lilas cousin Christina Ogilvie has her own beliefs about what happened. The police clearly did not look, Christina said. It should have been a case that was solved in a day. Just go to the places she regularly goes ... They didnt take it seriously. A clerical error? Yeah, right. Sgt. Robillard said that, in general, the decision of whether to canvass a building following a missing persons report is left up to the assigned investigator. He said the VPD receives more than 4,000 missing persons reports every year and only a select few urgent cases go to the specialized missing persons unit. The rest are initially dealt with by patrol sergeants, then an investigator. Bruce says his frustrations with the VPD started the day he tried to report his daughter missing. He went to a police station in person but was told he would have to use a phone in the lobby to call in the report, rather than speak to an officer directly. Sgt. Robillard confirmed that is VPD policy. When Bruce tried to use the phone, he said, his hearing impairment made it difficult. He called back numerous times, sometimes getting a busy signal and other times getting lost in a confusing series of extension numbers. When he went back to the desk clerk a third time, he said, he was told to try to flag down a patrol officer by himself. I said, Ive been here 20 minutes and I just want to talk to someone and report my daughter, Bruce said. Bruce said he has filed two official complaints with the force: the first over how difficult it was to get Lilas missing persons report filed and the second over the clerical error that caused his family so much pain. When Bruce Ogilvie and his former wife married in 1991, they adopted Lila at age six. Lila suffered from severe fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) due to alcohol consumed by her biological mother when she was pregnant, Bruce said, adding that the disorder caused her to have difficulties focusing, controlling her emotions and interacting with others. Lila, who was always an independent spirit, was raised in East Vancouver with two other adopted daughters. When she (Lila) gets into her teens, late teens, she gets very rebellious, she ended up moving out on her own, said Bruce. Christina said that while she and Lila were technically cousins, Salish tradition means they were actually more like sisters. She was such a sweet, kind, beautiful person, Christina said. When they were kids, Christina said Lila was overly trusting and would often be teased about her FASD. She got made fun of a lot, Christina said. I stood up for her as much as I could, but that was really hard for her. Lilas condition presented challenges through to adulthood, Christina said. She had a learning disability. She would say I wish I could go to school, I wish I could get a job, but she couldnt. She felt stuck, Christina said. Lila lived on disabilities assistance. That frustration led her into drug use and ultimately addiction, Christina said. According to Amendt, Lilas boyfriend, there were needles and other drug paraphernalia present in the room when her body was found. Through it all, Christina said, Lila maintained her childhood spark. People are often really judgmental of addicts, but they theyd see Lila and she would pull at your heart strings, she said. A vigil is being organized in Lilas memory for March 30. Christina said the family expects at least 100 people to carry candles and blow bubbles to represent her bubbly personality as they march through the Downtown Eastside, the community where so many knew and loved her. Read more about: SURREY, B.C.An alarm bell ringing in the hospital corridor makes it hard to think, let alone talk. Down the hall a female patient moans in pain, distracting the social worker momentarily. She turns back to the frail woman speaking softly from a hospital bed in front of her. But I dont want to go to Chilliwack, says 64-year-old Melanie Keays, her voice barely audible. I know, but you have to work with us, the social worker replies. We dont want to send you out on the street. Its mid-November, and Melanie has been in this bed at Surrey Memorial Hospital for 10 days. Hospital staff insist there is nothing physically wrong with her unfortunately, she is medically stable, as the nurses keep saying but the hospital doesnt know what to do with her. She has no home, and the shelter she was living in refuses to take her back. She has no bank cards or access to cash. She uses a walker and struggles to climb even small sets of stairs. The pharmacist doesnt know where to send her methadone prescription once she leaves the hospital. Melanie is in recovery from decades of heroin use, and she requires a lot of support. She forgets critical appointments. She needs in-home care to help her bathe and keep her clothes clean. She is frail, and her health is consistently precarious. Her Surrey-based methadone doctor says she should be in an assisted-living care home. But staff at the hospital want to put her in a taxi to the Salvation Army shelter in Chilliwack, more than 70 kilometres away from her friends, her family and her only supports. Melanie is not the only one. In February, an elderly woman was discharged from Abbotsford General Hospital and dropped off by a taxi at the citys Ann Davis Transition House. Missing a shoe, and wearing only a hospital gown, within half an hour she was so violently ill that she collapsed in the bathroom and staff sent her to the Chilliwack General Hospital in an ambulance, according to transition house director Patti MacAhonic. Chilliwack Mayor Ken Popove made headlines in March when he criticized Fraser Health Authority for discharging two other seniors from Surrey Memorial Hospital in February a 76-year-old woman with severe incontinence and mobility challenges, and a wheelchair user with open wounds on his feet to the Chilliwack Salvation Army shelter. Popove says the hospital didnt tell shelter staff what kind of care the patients needed. More than 40 days later, Popove says the woman is still in the shelter, where staff are unable to care for her properly. A homeless shelter is no place for a person with health concerns or special medical needs, Popove wrote in an open letter to Dr. Victoria Lee, president and CEO of the publicly funded health authority that serves 1.8 million people and oversees 12 acute-care hospitals from Burnaby to Hope in the Lower Mainland. Are hospitals regularly discharging patients into homeless shelters? his letter asked. The answer is yes. These stories point to a revolving door that shuffles an increasing number of vulnerable seniors from hospital to shelter, and a health system that struggles to care for them. Debby Byron knows this better than most. A mobile case worker at the Lookout Societys Guildford shelter in Surrey, Byron is one of the first people to help Melanie feel valued and supported. Our seniors are the new face of homelessness, and it hasnt even peaked yet, Byron says. Shayne Williams is the CEO of the Lookout Society. He says people like Melanie are victims of four complex and interrelated social issues: unaffordable housing, the opioid crisis, an aging population and mental health crisis. These problems often overlap in cases like Melanies, compounding the complexity of care. We have a dedicated ministry of mental health and addictions now, the only one in the country, which will help, Williams says, but in terms of the overall ability for the system to care for these vulnerable people, access has been a challenge. Williams says more than 200 people experiencing homelessness go to Fraser Health emergency rooms every day, often becoming part of the never-ending cycle that leads from shelter to hospital to the street and back again. Its a problem across the country and has been for years, particularly where affordable housing is out of the reach of most middle-income people, let alone those of limited means. We need a better overall picture of where people are falling through the cracks of the whole housing support system, Katie Plaizier, project manager for Torontos Centre for Equality Rights in Accommodation, told the Star in a 2017 interview about a report on an emerging crisis in the Greater Toronto Area involving evictions of senior tenants. Since his letter hit the news, Popove learned of several other cases of vulnerable seniors being shipped from hospitals around the Lower Mainland to shelters in Chilliwack. At the end of the day, a shelter is not an appropriate place for these people to be in, Popove says. Thats bottom line, in my opinion. Fraser Health would not comment on specific cases, citing privacy concerns. In a statement, it says these cases were troubling, and Fraser Health takes them very seriously. Finding suitable housing is a challenge across our region, the statement says. A discharge transition from an emergency room to a shelter would only happen when the patient is deemed medically stable and ready to leave the hospital. We make every effort to find them suitable housing if they dont have a home to return to. But Popove says that assertion is bulls--t, and evidence shows people are being discharged when theyre not medically stable, and that shelters often are given no warning. During this investigation, the Star found five other recent cases where seniors experiencing homelessness say they were displaced from their communities to shelters in Chilliwack, Surrey, Delta, and Vancouver. Many of the people the Star spoke to did not want their names or stories told publicly, for fear of being stigmatized further. While landing in a hospital bed is certainly not a good long-term solution, in many cases its better than landing on the street. Thats what happened to Larry McConkey. He was a client at the Hyland House shelter in Surrey until early December. At 70 years old, McConkey uses a wheelchair and has been struggling with alcohol dependency for years. He says he returned to Hyland House one evening in December after having had too much to drink. The shelter says it is low barrier, meaning sobriety isnt a requirement to access its services, but McConkey says that didnt appear to matter. After an altercation with staff, he says he was told to leave. Mark Usher was there when it happened, and corroborates McConkeys account. Now in his 50s, Usher has himself been a shelter client for years. He also sits on Fraser Healths opioid addictions panel in New Westminster, and volunteers with the non-profit Purpose Society for Youth and Families. He has become an unofficial and seemingly tireless advocate for vulnerable people in the system, with his own network of contacts at shelters and service providers across the Lower Mainland. Usher says it was raining and cold the night McConkey was asked to leave Hyland House. With nowhere else to go, Usher took McConkey to the Quibble Creek sobering centre for the night. From there, McConkey bounced between the sobering centre and another nearby shelter for weeks, his health and sobriety continuing to decline. Meanwhile Usher had gotten an apartment at the Ted Kuhn Towers, a supportive housing project in Surrey run by Options Society, the same organization that runs Hyland House. Larry was at the shelter until they kicked him out for drinking, Usher says. Then I got him into an emergency weather response shelter, but nobody wanted to go the extra mile for him, so I took him in with me. Ushers apartment wasnt much a cramped bachelor unit with a tiny kitchen but it was something. Both of them slept on mats on the floor for a while, until Usher could arrange proper beds. He also got McConkeys prescriptions for a heart condition renewed, and made sure he had nutritious food to eat. For about a month, McConkey stayed sober and his health improved. He even started a regimen to build up his strength and become less reliant on his wheelchair. Like McConkey, Melanie has been through the system many times before. Over the summer, her ex-husband Richard Griffin says she spent 66 consecutive days in a hospital bed at the Peace Arch Hospital in White Rock before social workers found her a space at the Hyland House shelter in Surrey. It makes me feel horrible, Richard says of the constant shuffling around. Its painful to see her struggle like this. Though theyve been separated for decades, Richard is one of Melanies only sources of reliable support. A recovering addict himself, who was on the street for years, he now lives in a transitional housing unit and isnt allowed to have roommates. He also sits on a number of drug and alcohol use panels in Surrey, and spends most of his time supporting fellow recovering addicts and marginalized people in the Surrey area. But taking care of Melanie has pushed him to his limit. She became homeless about two years ago, when she broke up with the man she had lived with for 20 years. So it fell to Richard to make sure Melanie got to her appointments on time, to help her sift through pages of Craigslist rental ads neither of them can afford, and to be the bulwark against a Byzantine system of paperwork-filled bureaucracy that he says the shelter staff werent helping with. Melanie says she found living at the Hyland House shelter isolating. Every day I wanted to get out of that place, she says. But I needed someone to help me. So she would call Richard, sometimes as many as seven times a day, to come get her. She keeps getting bounced from agency to agency, Richard says. She is falling through the cracks. Ive been this watchful eagle for so long, and its taking a toll on me. By November, the cycle had started again. Staff at Hyland House sent Melanie to the Surrey hospital in an ambulance on November 7. She was examined and released, but within an hour the shelter sent her back to the hospital again. Richard was out of town, so he called Usher for help, who raced to the hospital to try and figure out what was going on. One nurse told him Melanie had been caught smoking in her room, a charge Melanie denied. Her bed at Hyland House had been given away because she had been discharged, and all the other local shelters were full, the nurse says. A different nurse told Usher, who was also living at Hyland House at the time, that it was because the shelter didnt have the resources to handle someone with Melanies needs. Regardless of the official reason, Hyland House isnt willing to touch this at all, the hospitals social worker told Usher, out of earshot of Melanie. So Usher called his network of contacts in the social services around the Fraser Valley, looking for somewhere that might be willing to take Melanie. Ten days went by before Richard got a call from the hospital. The only solution staff could find was to send Melanie in a cab to the Salvation Army shelter in Chilliwack. Since she became homeless, Richard says Melanies mental health has taken a worrying dive, and he feared the shock of being sent to Chilliwack might be too much. If they send her to Chilliwack, shell be totally isolated, Richard says. I cant believe this s--t. So he called Usher again, and Usher raced back to the hospital to try and negotiate with the staff. The best they could do was keep her for one more night, the social worker says. Usher again called his contacts at shelters as far afield as Vancouver, hoping that would be better than Chilliwack. He also went to Surrey-Newton MLA Harry Bains office and asked for help. By the time he got there, it was past 5 p.m. on a Friday. Staff at Bains office tried to call Fraser Health to ask for a reprieve until Monday morning at the very least, but couldnt get any traction. Options Society, which runs Hyland House, would not discuss Melanies case or that of any of its clients. Deputy executive director Slinder Balaggan says staff work hard to support clients to find permanent housing. But sometimes people are asked to leave when they havent upheld their end of the bargain in terms of searching for housing. There is a lot of support, she says. We have to know that if its a conversation about discharge, we feel that we have really brought everything to the table that we possibly can. Sometimes a client is presenting as just not wanting to leave the shelter. We have a lot of folks who would love to make the shelter (a permanent) home, Balaggan says. Exacerbating the problem is social support agencies and health care providers that operate in silos, making cohesive case management difficult. Were really limited in what we actually know about people, Balaggan says. We have no way of knowing which steps have been tried before. After agreeing to keep Melanie for an extra night and aided by Ushers efforts, the staff at Surrey Memorial discovered Lookout Societys Guildford shelter had an open bed. But when she arrived, Melanies mobility challenges meant she couldnt climb the ladder to a top bunk, so she slept on a mat on the floor for days until the shelter could arrange a lower bunk. Byron, the mobile case worker at the Guildford shelter, says they could take Melanie because a provincially funded pilot program in Surrey called the Health Care to Shelter Working Group keeps dedicated spaces for people like Melanie who are discharged from hospitals and have nowhere to go. Balaggan says Hyland House is also part of the Hospitals to Shelters pilot, although its unclear why they gave away Melanies bed when she was sent to hospital and didnt take her back when she was discharged. Its mid-December. In the month that Melanie has been living at Guildford, Byron has taken over her casework, arranged transportation to and from her methadone and doctors appointments, helped her search for housing, and started the paperwork to get her approved for government-subsidized assisted living. Melanie has been sent back to the Surrey hospital a number of times. But each time, staff at Guildford held her bed for her and checked in on her while she was there, Richard says. Melanie started making friends in the shelter, doing arts and crafts with them and beginning to build a community. Instead of seven or eight calls a day to Richard, she was calling only a couple times a week to go out for coffee. I was almost in tears. It was night and day, he says of the support Melanie was receiving. They really support their people, and they go the extra mile. But theres still a big problem with housing beyond the shelter system. All service providers in the Lower Mainland sit at the same table, Byron explained. In order to choose who gets into an assisted living space, each provider can put forward five names that might be a good fit. Melanie is number one on our list right now, Byron says, but the wait list is up to 100 people at a time. Its five years long right now. That means Melanie could end up spending the next five years living at the Guildford shelter. If thats what it takes to find her a home, Byron says thats what she will fight for. At the same time, shelter and outreach providers across the Lower Mainland say the number of seniors experiencing homelessness is rising. Statistics from the annual Metro Vancouver Homeless Count show the number of homeless seniors tripled from less than 250 people in 2008 to more than 750 in 2017. This year we ran our mobile outreach program five nights a week, says Union Gospel Mission spokesperson Jeremy Hunka. The more we go out, the more need we see, Hunka says. Weve seen a substantial increase in the past few years. Workers from the Salvation Army are seeing the same thing, according to Jim Coggles, executive director of Vancouver Harbour Light. A more disturbing trend for us is that we arent just getting an increase in the number of folks 55 and over, but we were seeing some very senior ages. We had a mother and a daughter come in where the mother was well into her 90s and the daughter was in her 70s, he says. It was a situation where they were really in trouble. Its late February, and a rare ray of sunshine cuts through the clouds as Richard cruises through Surrey in his battered Nissan sedan. Melanie sits beside him, the sun on her face, smiling. As the car rolls through the Whalley neighbourhood, they pass a man asleep on a curbside lawn, a mountain of possessions piled into shopping carts beside him. That was me once upon a time, Richard says. I had a shopping cart like that. We called them Whalley Winnebagos. Richard eases his aging car around the corner and down Surreys 135A street. They drive past empty sidewalks that only a year ago were covered in tents and hung with tarps. Around 200 people lived along the so-called Surrey strip before the province paid to install modular housing on an empty lot nearby. What if we had something like this for our elderly people, Richard says? Wouldnt that work, Melanie? he asks. She nods, and says that it would, but she wants to have a roommate. Melanie isnt the only person Richards put this question to. Hes been sending letters about the idea for months to provincial cabinet ministers, including housing minister Selina Robinson. None of them has responded, and Richard has been too busy to press the point. He came home one night in February to find an eviction notice taped to his apartment door. Hes been in his transitional housing suite for nearly four years, and now hes being told he must move out by the end of May to make space for new tenants. Hes spent the past two years worrying about Melanie and trying to help her navigate the system. Now hes facing a return to homelessness if he cant sort something out in time. I have no idea where Ill go, he says. I wake up every morning wondering whats the plan for today? Where am I going to live? Correction March 25, 2019: This article was edited from a previous version that mistakenly said an elderly woman was initially discharged from Chilliwack General Hospital in February . In fact, the woman was initially discharged from Abbotsford General Hospital. Read more about: Are all leashed animals really welcome at Petco? It was a question raised by a Texas couple and their pet, Oliver, a 1,600-pound Ankole-Watusi steer. So, they figured it was time to get an answer. "We decided to take a chance and call Petco's bluff on the 'ALL LEASHED PETS ARE WELCOME' policy," Vincent Browning, one of Oliver's owners, wrote in a Facebook post. With Browning holding the steer's leash, Oliver, known as "the African Watusi," slowly shuffled his way through a Petco parking lot earlier this week. During his minute-long trek from the parking lot to the store on Monday, a young child awed in amazement of the creature with arresting horns. "Hey, guys, you see the longhorn?" the child said of the creature. The child added, "He's taking him to the Petco!" As Oliver tilted his wide set of horns - measuring nine and a half feet from tip to tip - to the side to avoid hitting the automatic sliding doors, Browning kept repeating, "Easy, easy!" When he made it through the second series of doors, the steer was greeted with pure joy from the patrons and employees, including smiles, laughter and a welcome worthy of any other customer or animal of the pet store retailer: "Welcome to South Texas Petco." "They welcomed Oliver the African Watusi with open arms," Browning wrote. Oliver's field trip to Petco has since gone viral this week, with the Facebook video of his entrance garnering more than 1 million views as of early Friday morning. Many on social media are celebrating the animal's beauty in a setting in which an Ankole-Watusi, regarded as the "cattle of kings" for its majestic horns, very rarely, if ever, finds itself. The steer's path to Petco was easier than expected. Stopping at Petco on the way back from an event with Oliver, a fully trained steer who's available for rodeos and events, Shelly Lumpkin, Browning's fiancee, saw an employee she knew, USA Today reported. The couple are regulars at the Atascocita store, about 25 miles north of Houston, and had previously broached the idea of bringing Oliver in for a visit, according to the Houston Chronicle. Browning, a former world champion bull rider, has raised Oliver since he was 6 months old, traveling with him throughout the South to rodeos and events, according to the Chronicle. But Petco was one place he had yet to visit. "I said we'd love to meet him and that he could come in any time, as long as he's domesticated and on a leash," Chrystal Armour, an employee at the store, recalled to the Chronicle. When Lumpkin asked the employee if Oliver could come say hi, the store was ready for the steer. The answer left Lumpkin a little surprised. "I said, 'Are you serious?' " she said to the Chronicle. "She talked to her manager and her manager said, 'Yeah, bring him in as long as you clean up the mess.' " Upon entrance, customers and employees marveled at the gentle, plodding steer before approaching Oliver to pet him and take pictures. "People couldn't believe it," Lumpkin told USA Today. "The whole staff there was really nice about it and excited." The visit to the Houston-area store got the attention of Petco chief executive Ron Coughlin, who said he wished he could have been there. "So proud [and a little jealous] of our Atascocita team for keeping @Petco's word when we say 'ALL leashed #pets are welcome,'" Coughlin tweeted. "Meeting Oliver, the African Watusi, looks like an incredible experience!" Oliver was already something of a social-media star before he popped up at Petco. His Facebook page, which has more than 40,000 followers as of early Friday, chronicles Oliver's everyday life, such as hanging out with mascots, getting pedicures and napping with his pig friend, Dolly. On Facebook, users took note of how conscious Oliver is of his size when walking into the store. "That amazes me that he tilts his head to get his horns in the door," one user wrote. "I can't believe he fit through the door!" another person remarked. "Coming through the front door he was SO careful," someone observed. "What a good boy." BEARDSTOWN Students at Beardstown High School were on lockdown for just over four hours Friday afternoon after the school found a threat written on a bathroom wall. The threat that prompted the lockdown had not been released Friday evening. Cass County Sheriff Devron Ohrn said the nature of the threat is not yet being released as police continue interviews and the investigation. We still have several people we want to interview and we dont want them to use what theyve read to influence those interviews, Ohrn said. During the lockdown, the building was searched by law enforcement officers and canine units. Students and lockers were searched during the process. The entire grounds were searched, he said. Superintendent Ron Gilbert said the entire district was placed on lockdown at around 11:30 a.m. Friday, shortly after he was informed about the message. When we find those types of messages, we have a lockdown procedure and that went into effect right away, Gilbert said. While the investigation is ongoing, Gilbert said the threat was not deemed credible and no one had been arrested as of Friday evening. Gilbert said police removed a few students from the school after an altercation, but said it was not related to the threat, nor were the students arrested. It was an unfortunate incident and the building principals will be handling the situation, Gilbert said. We have a discipline policy that will be followed. They were removed to prevent any escalation of the situation. Both Gard Elementary School and Grand Avenue pre-kindergarten school were also locked down as a precaution. Officers from the Cass County Sheriffs Department, Beardstown Police Department, Illinois State Police and the Illinois State Bomb Squad responded to the incident. Gilbert said both students and faculty were cooperative during the lockdown. Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree can be reached at 217-245-6121, ext. 1233, or on Twitter @JCNews_samantha. SPRINGFIELD Officials in charge of managing the Illinois Medicaid program told state lawmakers they are focused on improving services and reducing the programs cost to taxpayers, but that will depend on whether lawmakers are willing to impose a new tax on insurance companies. This budget proposal has been referred to technically as a maintenance budget, but to us that means far from business as usual, Theresa Eagleson, the new director at the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, told a Senate appropriations committee Tuesday. The governor has vowed to preserve Medicaid funding, and under this budget not a single person will see their health coverage or their child support assistance reduced in any way. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is proposing a total operating budget for DHFS of $25.1 billion, or about $900 million more than the current years budget. The vast majority of that is for the state Medicaid program, which is jointly funded with state and federal money to provide health coverage to more than 3 million low- and moderate-income people in Illinois. However, under Pritzkers proposal, the cost to Illinois taxpayers would actually be about $700 million less than it is this year. Thats because within the Medicaid program, Pritzker is proposing to levy a host of new taxes that would go into a special fund used to reimburse health care providers while at the same time drawing down additional federal matching funds. Those new taxes include an assessment on certain insurance companies known as managed care organizations, or MCOs, which are the type of companies that now administer most of the states Medicaid program. Pritzker is also seeking a 32-cent per-pack increase in the states cigarette tax as well as new taxes on e-cigarettes. Among the things the new money would pay for would be the hiring of 59 additional staff members to coordinate physical and behavioral health care for Medicaid patients. That new managed care system, however, has been the subject of intense criticism since it was implemented statewide in 2015. Known as Health Choice Illinois, it was intended to improve health outcomes and bring down costs by coordinating each individuals care between their primary care provider and various therapists and specialists. Sen. Heather Steans, a Chicago Democrat who chairs the committee, was among the group of lawmakers who pushed for shifting to a managed-care model for Medicaid. But she said Tuesday that there have been signs the new model isnt working as planned, and that the MCOs have actually been controlling costs by denying claims. The history weve had with the MCOs has been much more (about) denials, not providing care, she said. Eagleson, a former executive director of the Office of Medicaid Innovation at the University of Illinois system, acknowledged earlier in her testimony the agency was deeply aware of concerns about denial rates, late payments and other issues in the program. But she also said there are indications managed care is achieving some of its goals. Were seeing anecdotally things like increased assessments of behavioral health needs, decreased hospital admissions, decreased (emergency room) utilization, she said. So we do think that the statistics are going in the right direction in most cases, but wed like to bring more transparency to you around those issues as well. Sen. Laura Murphy, a Democrat from Des Plaines, meanwhile, said there were concerns that go beyond the managed care system, and thats the difficulty people have getting recertified for Medicaid in order to continue their benefits after their initial period of approval expires. Im sure my office is not unlike most other districts offices, where 90 percent of my staffs time is spent on trying to get people recertified, she said, calling the process the most consumer-unfriendly thing we could possibly do. And the amount of frustration that my constituents, and Im sure everyones experienced, it is beyond unacceptable, Murphy said. Eagleson said the agency was working across the board to find solutions to that problem, including hiring and training new staff at local offices where Medicaid applications are processed. She said the agency was also looking into a more streamlined process for the frail elderly and people with chronic disabilities whose medical conditions that qualify them for Medicaid are unlikely to change. Sen. Dale Righter, a Republican from Mattoon, said his major concern about the budget request was the reliance on new taxes, which the General Assembly has not yet approved. He asked how the agency would make up the difference if lawmakers decline to enact those new taxes. We would have to explore other funding options for the budget, senator, whether that would be (general revenue funds) or other resources, said Mike Casey, DHFS finance director. We would have an issue of funding our budget, to the tune of approximately $400 million, net. The committee took no action Tuesday, but will continue discussing the proposed Medicaid budget as lawmakers work toward passing a final budget later in the session. Reach reporter Peter Hancock at phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com ALTON Police in Alton Friday night were investigating the death of a man killed by apparent gunfire at the Shell station, 2500 Brown St. A possible person of interest was taken into custody a short time later after a vehicle crashed east of Bethalto. The incident occurred at approximately 7:13 p.m. Police and rescue crews were dispatched to the convenience store at the intersection of Washington and Brown for the report of a man shot. Dispatchers said the man was unresponsive. His identity was not released by police Friday night. A suspect was apparently seen running east on Brown, and was tracked by an Alton police K-9 unit. Several minutes later, radio dispatchers reported that police were following a suspect car eastbound on Route 140. The car crashed near the intersection of Route 159 and an individual described as a Hispanic male was taken into custody by Illinois State Police. Several people on the scene of the incident identifying themselves as family and friends of the victim told a Telegraph reporter that the incident was sparked by an apparent argument in the store and the suspect pulled out a gun and fired. I tried to save a life, a clerk at the store who declined to be identified said. I was trying to separate them when a bullet went right past my side. The employee said workers there were in shock. Alton Police spokesperson Pfc. Emily Hejna could not confirm details of the incident Friday night. She said police had taken in the individual involved in the crash to determine if the two were related. She said it was still very early in the investigation and little official information could be shared with media Friday night. Dozens of onlookers mulled around the Shell as investigators processed the scene. The victims body rested near the south entrance inside the convenience store, visible from the outside. He was declared dead at the scene. The Madison County Coroners Office and Illinois State Police crime scene technitions were called in to continue the investigation. "Post Reports" is the daily podcast from The Washington Post. Unparalleled reporting. Expert insight. Clear analysis. Everything you've come to expect from the newsroom of The Post - for your ears. - - - ALTON The victim of a fatal shooting Friday night inside an Alton Shell station has been identified as 22-year-old Austin L. Pierson, of the 2600 block of Ida Street, Alton. Police on Saturday also confirmed that a suspect, also 22 years old, is in custody. He was not identified pending formal charges, expected to come Monday. Police were called to the convenience store at approximately 7:15 p.m. Friday for the report of a man who was shot and unresponsive. The suspect fled on foot east on Brown and was later captured by Illinois State Police after crashing a vehicle near the intersection of Route 140 and 159. Alton Police Department spokesperson Pfc. Emily Hejna said the men, who knew each there, were in an altercation before the suspect allegedly pulled a weapon and shot Pierson. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Hejna did not give details regarding the nature of the fight, but it was not drug related. There were several other people inside the store at the time of the incident. None of them were hurt, but an employee of the Shell said he was nearly struck by the gunfire. I tried to save a life, a clerk at the store, who declined to be identified, told a Telegraph reporter Friday night. I was trying to separate them when a bullet went right past my side. He said everyone in the store when the shooting occurred was in shock. Dozens of family, friends and acquaintances of Pierson appeared at the scene and mourned with each other late into the evening as investigators processed the scene. There's a lot going on as we get closer to the S2 premiere of The Witcher on Netflix . Henry is right in the middle of promoting the se... Kal was definitely ready for his moment in the spotlight, as he joined Henry for his appearance on the Lorraine show in London. Henry was t... About Us We are a fan blog dedicated to bringing you the latest news on Henry's current and future projects. Everything from interviews to appearances, you'll find it all here first. Have tips, pictures, or videos you want to share? email us at henrycavillnews@gmail.com DISCLAIMER This blog is in no way affiliated with Henry Cavill or his representatives. This blog does not claim copyright on any images used in our posts. 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 A new wave of 1,500 mobile handsets is being launched next month but you can snap up a high-tech smartphone for just 99. The Samsung Galaxy Fold comes out in April and although a technological marvel with a folding screen, the phone will carry a hefty 1,515 price tag. This is the price you must pay to buy the phone without a SIM card or mobile contract. Network providers try to lure customers into making such high-cost purchases with a monthly instalment deal which may make it affordable but end up adding hundreds of pounds more before you eventually own the handset outright. The new Samsung Galaxy Fold (left) with a 1,515 price tag, and the Nokia 2.1, which costs 99 Yet for 99 you could buy the sleek Nokia 2.1, a smartphone with enough bells and whistles to compete with most big budget phones. And rather than getting trapped into a lengthy contract, it is possible to opt for a cheaper SIM-only deal, paying perhaps 10 a month for a flexible option where you can later change your calls plan. Matthew Moreton, managing director of phone comparison service Compare and Recycle, says: It is worth looking at cheaper alternatives that offer realistic competition to handsets costing as much as 1,500 often with gimmicks you do not really need. Someone buying a phone outright avoids paying interest. This extra interest gets added to the sums in a lengthy contract deal when you sign up. With a SIM-only option there is no need to be tied into a network deal. Moreton suggests anyone seeking a new handset should consider trading in an old mobile and putting this money towards a new device. Compare and Recycle offers a comparison service that lists the dealers willing to buy old handsets. For example, an iPhone 6 sells for 80 through the trading firm SellMyFone while those trading in a Samsung Galaxy S6 get 65 if using musicMagpie. The best SIM-only contracts can be cancelled after just 30 days. Comparison websites such as broadbandchoices can provide details of the best deals from a range of network providers. The major names include BT Mobile, EE, O2 and Three. But others such as giffgaff, Plusnet, Sky Mobile, Tesco Mobile, Voix and Smarty are also worth considering. Among the most competitive SIM-only deals at the moment is a 10-a-month offer with giffgaff for three gigabytes of data, unlimited texts and phone calls. The three gigabytes allowance is enough to watch 15 hours of movies or listen to 750 songs on Spotify. Samsung Fold PRICE: 1,515. LAUNCH: April 26, 2019 (US); May 3, 2019 (UK). DISPLAY: A 4.6-inch touch screen when the phone is folded and opens up to be a 7.3-inch tablet. CAMERA: A triple lens camera on the back, three lenses on front, including one for selfies. STORAGE: Can surf the net and run apps. Internal storage space of 512 gigabytes. HEADPHONES: No headphone jack. Wireless Samsung Galaxy Buds cost 139. COLOURS: Black, green, blue or silver. BATTERY: Two batteries. Capacity of 4,380mAh. Power-hungry and needs recharging at least once a day. DIMENSIONS: Samsung has yet to reveal full details but believed to be 17mm thick when folded and 6.9mm when opened to a tablet. Complaints about rip-off mobile phone text scams have soared by 44 per cent in just six months, alarming new figures have revealed. Thousands of people are caught out by surprise charges on their mobile phone bills every month. Spurious companies are charging customers up to 4.50 per text message via their mobile phone bills for useless and unsolicited subscriptions to services such as quizzes, competitions or money-saving deals. Companies are charging customers up to 4.50 per text message Victims are supposed to have signed up using their smartphones, but many are in the dark about how the charges have been triggered. The Phone-paid Services Authority the regulator for premium services charged to a phone bill is fielding thousands of complaints a month from angry consumers who say they never gave consent to be charged. The most recent figures show complaints between the first and second half of 2018 soared by more than two-fifths (44 per cent) to 6,700. These figures only relate to those who knew to complain to the regulator and took the time to do so. Many more will have complained to their mobile networks and gone no further. Others may not even know they have been affected until they spot the small, but regular charges on their bills. For more than a year, The Mail on Sunday has repeatedly highlighted the blight of rip-off texts and readers continue to come forward to describe their experiences. They include one person paying for texts from an unknown company based in Cyprus and a grandmother being charged for a text-based subscription service despite never using the internet on her phone. Customers experiences all follow the same pattern. They do not know how they came to receive the messages, deny ever signing up to a service and have no use for the messages. Meanwhile, the companies behind them remain cloaked in secrecy. End nuisance messages - once and for all Dealing with unwanted text messages can be a minefield with the rules for stamping them out varying. Some people recommend sending a stop message, while others say this lets fraudsters know your number is in use and further fuels their efforts. In order to know what action to take, you first need to find out whether you are being charged to receive the unwanted messages. So scrutinise your mobile phone bill. If additional charges are appearing, follow the instructions contained in the text and reply to the number provided with STOP or STOP ALL. Then contact your mobile network to complain and ask for a refund. It should at least provide details of the company that took payment so a direct complaint can be made. If you are not being charged to receive the messages, they are spam messages but could have fraudulent intent behind them. Do not reply, but forward them to your mobile network using the number 7726 (which spells out spam on the handsets keypad). This forwarding service is free. Find more help at Ofcom.org.uk. Mobile networks often allow the charges to be added to bills via the Payforit platform owned by Three, EE, O2 and Vodafone. When customers complain to their mobile networks, they are routinely redirected to contact the service providers. Often these companies are based overseas with contact only possible via a general email address from which replies are not always forthcoming. When a response is generated, customers are usually told no refund will be issued because they willingly signed up and agreed to the terms and conditions. Elaine Cottam, 64, was charged 4.50 each for three texts from a provider she had never heard of. She only noticed the additional payments when querying charges for phone use abroad. The married retiree, from Cleveleys in Lancashire, says she is appalled at how easy it was for the company to take her money. Elaine was unaware what the text service was even for. She contacted her network, Three, which pointed her towards a Cyprus-based company called Panadema. A spokeswoman at Three says Elaine signed up to a money-off alerts service. But the service simply provided links to deals on the popular VoucherCodes website, including money off shoes and pizzas. Deals on the VoucherCodes website, which is not linked to the service, can be accessed and searched easily for free. Threes spokeswoman adds: The online advert clearly stated the service would cost 4.50 per message. The customer contacted us to query the charges, and we were happy to provide a credit of 20 as a goodwill gesture. We also placed a cap on her account so that she would no longer be able to send or receive premium rate text messages. Elaine says: Whatever the advert was I cannot remember seeing it, and no way would I have willingly signed up to this. Meanwhile, 73-year-old grandmother Pauline only spotted charges on her bill after reading about scam texts in The Mail on Sunday. She says: Thank goodness I read the article because I have been charged twice. I did not agree to anything and dont know how they got my number. This is a terrible practice. Pauline has never used the internet on her phone and is on a pay-as-you-go tariff, only using it to stay in touch with her family. She contacted her mobile network, which has now blocked any further charges from premium rate services. Most customers affected by scam texts discover after much frustration that offending companies are not answerable to anyone, unless enough people complain. This then triggers an investigation by the regulator. After raising a dispute with the company and being rejected, customers can only then hope that their mobile phone operator will reimburse them. Unfortunately, mobile networks do not always play ball. As a result of the surge in complaints, the regulator is now looking at tighter rules to tackle the issue. It says more than 95 per cent of complaints it receives are about text subscriptions and that some services are causing significant harm to consumers. Only last week the regulator issued its latest fine a 375,000 penalty to subscription provider Best VIP Games for misleading consumers. Following the surge in complaints, the regulator is looking at tighter rules to tackle the issue Incoming reforms could include a two-factor authentication process before payment is taken. Customers who sign up would have a PIN sent to their mobiles, which they then confirm with the service provider. A spokesman for the Phone-paid Services Authority says: Were proposing new requirements that we hope will make it clearer for consumers what they are paying for and how, and prevent them from being charged without their consent. To find out which company is behind a premium rate text message usually from a five-digit shortcode number use the service checker tool at psauthority.org.uk. From here you can also find further details about the regulators consultation on new rules, which closes on April 16. Have you been charged for a rip-off text? Email personalfinance@mailonsunday.co.uk. Although all personal finance eyes are currently focused on investor-friendly Isas as a result of the impending end of the tax year a use it or lose it annual allowance pensions remain the backbone of most peoples retirement finances. For many, the pension provided by the State, a reward for National Insurance contributions duly paid while working, is an essential part of their retirement armoury. But it is the retirement income resulting from contributing to a works-based or a standalone scheme private pensions that determines whether later life will be underpinned by financial security or undermined by money worries. Lifetime allowance: That's an amount determined by Treasury officials that our pension pots cannot exceed without the taxman taking a slice of any surplus in the form of a tax charge For now, these private pensions remain the best retirement strategy in town because of the generous tax relief boost the Government gives on contributions. Yet there is a pensions time bomb ticking away in the background which at some stage the Government must address. It is (rather misleadingly) called the lifetime allowance, an amount determined by Treasury officials that our pension pots cannot exceed without the taxman taking a slice of any surplus in the form of a tax charge. In recent years, this allowance has come crashing down, from 1.8million (for the tax year ending April 5, 2012) to 1.03million in the current tax year. The result is that more people hard-working, middle-class individuals as opposed to FTSE bosses are being caught out by this nasty tax trap. This can result in up to 55 per cent of any amount above the allowance being grabbed by the taxman. Research released today by financial services group Royal London quantifies the breadth of this pension tax grab. It says that 290,000 non-retired people have already built pension funds in excess of the lifetime allowance. Many continue to add to their pension pots oblivious to the fact they are feeding the tax bill they will eventually have to pay. Royal London also says a further 1.25million workers are expected to see their pensions wealth exceed the lifetime allowance by the time they retire. Long-serving public sector workers in senior positions doctors for example and higher paid workers in the private sector (paying into a works pension where the employer makes generous top-up contributions) are most at risk of falling foul of this allowance trap. While Royal London suggests the Government should do more to alert savers to the tax consequences of exceeding the lifetime allowance, it also argues for more radical reform. It believes it is time to axe the allowance a measure The Mail on Sunday has long called for. It is a view based on utter common sense. After all, the amount we are allowed to put into a private pension each year is curbed by the annual allowance. For most savers, this is capped at 40,000 (less for additional rate taxpayers), an amount that includes any employer contributions. It is outrageous of the Government to then come back for a juicy slice of our pension, just because we have been prudent. Axe the lifetime allowance. The high-tech titans of America must and will be tamed. That is clear. Every time in history an interest group has become too powerful, society has found ways of curbing its power. That has happened to oil companies, banks, telecom giants and trade unions. If market competition cannot do the job, governments step in. The challenge to their dominance is happening right now. Tech giants war: Elizabeth Warren, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for US President Last week, the European Commission fined Google 1.5billion for abusing its dominance of search ads its third such fine in two years. Facebook is under attack for allowing live streaming of the dreadful New Zealand shootings. The most extreme way of hitting the high-tech companies has come from Senator Elizabeth Warren, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for US President. She wants to break them up. That idea is gaining traction in the business community, too, where influential figures such as Sir John Hegarty, the legendary adman who we interview here, are starting to speak out. But there is another aspect of these companies behaviour that will be harder to tackle. It is the way in which they use their market dominance to buy out the competition. A promising smaller company starts biting into a giants business, so the latter makes an offer that the former cannot refuse. You sell, at of course a decent price, or the giant goes all out to compete against you, and in the end you are put out of business. That is not new. Businesses have long sought to preserve their market by buying out potential rivals. But the imbalance of power is particularly acute, and the monopolistic dominance of high-tech America is unprecedented. This is a particular challenge to the UK. Not OK Google: Last week, the European Commission fined Google 1.5billion for abusing its dominance of search ads its third such fine in two years We create lots of new companies. There is no shortage of entrepreneurs. And there is a strong high-tech start-up community. But when a business gets to a certain size, the owners usually sell out. Sir John Hegarty is troubled by this and he is right to be. So whats to be done? You cannot change a culture that encourages people to sell businesses they have built up rather than pass them on to their families assuming the next generation wants to run them. For many people the fun of starting a business is more enticing than the slog of running them year after year. But we can do things to support entrepreneurs more generally. One is to celebrate their achievements. We are a bit better than we used to be when the gongs went to corporate grandees rather than people who created a business out of nothing. But you dont have to listen hard to detect a bias against wealth, particularly if it is self-made. A second area to look at is taxation. Germany has special provisions that allow family businesses to be passed on free of inheritance tax. The UK has that for farm land. There is scope for abuse, but are farms really more important to the country than high-tech start-ups? Surely, no. A third area is support from the financial services industry. The UK is not doing badly. For example, more than 1billion was invested in AI start-ups last year, almost as much as the rest of Europe combined. But while we are number one in Europe, we are way behind the US and China in creating unicorns, new businesses with a $1 billion value. That surely is the great challenge: how do we create the next generation of global giants? By getting todays giants to behave better, we are more likely to create a climate where our own potential high-tech champions can thrive. London Capital & Finance lessons Last week, it emerged several people connected to London Capital & Finance had been arrested by the Serious Fraud Office. More than 11,000 people had invested in the company, and stand to lose up to 236million. The company adverts promised an 8 per cent return on an Isa, and that it was regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. That gave people confidence. The ads did, however, say that your capital was at risk. There may be some funds that can be recovered and some recourse for people who invested through an adviser. But the outlook is not good. Meanwhile, its worth reiterating two golden rules. One is spread risk: never put too much of your money in any one pot. The other: if a proposition looks too good, there is probably something wrong with it. Tony Hetherington is Financial Mail on Sunday's ace investigator, fighting readers corners, revealing the truth that lies behind closed doors and winning victories for those who have been left out-of-pocket. Find out how to contact him below. Row: Housebuilder Persimmon put in an extra home R.M. writes: We purchased a new property off-plan from Persimmon Homes. But when our solicitor heard from the Land Registry he found the plot size had been reduced by about 30 per cent from the original plan. He asked Persimmon for compensation of 19,495 for us, as this was about a third of the value of the land. It is months since we last heard from Persimmon and we cannot keep asking our solicitor to maintain contact. We are pensioners and cannot afford huge legal costs. You signed on the dotted line on April 29, 2016, and the purchase agreement includes estate plans drawn up in 2013, showing plot sizes. On September 30, 2016, the plot was transferred to you by Persimmon, still showing the same plan. But when your solicitor tried to register this, Land Registry officials told him that Persimmon had replaced the layout plan with one showing a smaller plot size. This new plan was dated April 1, 2016, and it did not match the two plans you and your solicitor were given later. Your solicitor took this up with Persimmon. It replied: 'The correct estate layout approval for this plot seems to be that dated September 26, 2013'. Persimmon even supplied a fresh copy. Everything matched your purchase agreement and the transfer yet it was completely wrong. Persimmon had taken a slice of the land you thought you were getting, and a slice of the next door plot, and had squeezed in another new house. Why BA doesn't have a leg to stand on! A.T. writes: I booked a British Airways flight to Thailand. I am over 6ft tall so I paid a further 56 for extra legroom. On boarding the plane, I found I was in a standard seat. A flight attendant apologised, saying all the extra legroom seats were taken. Now, BA refuses to refund the 56. When you complained, BA replied that although its website lets you pick where you sit, you should not rely on this. The airline claimed you had actually been allocated the seat you chose online. Yet nobody seemed to wonder what you got for your extra 56. BA has now told me you originally booked a standard seat and then made a separate payment, assuming it would allocate you a better seat. So BA was right to say you got what you chose and you were right to say you paid extra for nothing. BA has now repaid your 56 and given you 5,000 Avios loyalty points. I put all this to Persimmon. It told me you had known all along that the plans had been changed. Unfortunately this had been explained verbally by the salesman and not in writing. What was in writing was the old plan, attached to all the legal papers. Persimmon told me: 'As a result of human error, the wrong plan was attached to the customer's documents.' So, Persimmon gave you the wrong plan with your purchase agreement. It gave the wrong plan months later when it transferred the land. When your solicitor questioned this, he was reassured that the wrong plan was, in fact, the right plan. Persimmon told me it could not say why this false reassurance was given, because it had 'let go' the employee who gave it. Persimmon would not stand by what its employee had written. Despite all of this, Persimmon insisted that you had not lost a penny, you knew what you were getting and you had got it. The most it would do was pay the small extra fee charged by the Land Registry, leaving you to pick up the legal costs. It even blamed your solicitor for not spotting its mistakes sooner. But here is a funny thing. Persimmon says you knew what you were getting because its salesman had told you verbally about the changes. Yet the sales contract drawn up by Persimmon itself says you must not rely on any verbal representations offered 'by Persimmon or its employees or agents'. You must only rely on information given in writing. In a nutshell, the written contract beats the spoken word. I am not surprised that Persimmon failed to answer your solicitor, or fobbed him off by saying the matter was under consideration. It made a complete mess of the sale and then tried to shrug off its false plans as some sort of minor clerical error. What has been surprising is Persimmon's attempts to fob me off as well. At one stage, Persimmon even told me you really had been warned of the changes in writing before you agreed the purchase. When I asked for a copy, I was given a two-page checklist dealing with such things as the colour of your roof and the type of paving for the driveway. Among all this was a handwritten note saying 'Need new conveyance plan'. This is nothing like the claim to have advised you of the changes. It was meaningless without the plan. When the plan arrived, it was the wrong one. After several weeks, the only concession I have wrung out of Persimmon is that it will grudgingly, I think pay your solicitor's fees, approaching 2,000. It can easily afford this, after squeezing in a whole extra house. A few months ago, Persimmon boss Jeff Fairburn left the company after pocketing what has been described as an 'obscene' 75million bonus. Much of this came from profits made by selling houses under the Government's Help to Buy scheme. No wonder Ministers are said to be having second thoughts about cosying up to Persimmon. Almost half a century ago, Prime Minister Ted Heath condemned one City fat cat as 'the unacceptable face of capitalism'. Today, Persimmon has earned that same title. It gives greed a bad name. If you believe you are the victim of financial wrongdoing, write to Tony Hetherington at Financial Mail, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TS or email tony.hetherington@mailonsunday.co.uk. Because of the high volume of enquiries, personal replies cannot be given. Please send only copies of original documents, which we regret cannot be returned. I am travelling to Europe on 29 March and am worried that we could still go out then with a hard Brexit. I'm hoping for a delay, but what can I do to make sure I'm as prepared as possible for a no-deal exit? There have been plenty of scare stories around about flights grinding to a halt on 29 March 2019 but that's unlikely to happen Sarah Davidson, of This is Money, replies: You are not alone in having this fear. Barely an hour goes by without yet another update, showdown or u-turn on how Government plans to deal with Brexit on 29 March. It looks like Brexit might now be delayed but there is still a possibility that we will tumble out of the EU next week with no deal. Political dilly-dallying aside, there has been considerable preparation done to try to avoid disruption to people travelling between Europe and the UK in the event that Britain exits the European trading bloc with no deal. Some of this preparation should allow you to plan ahead, at least insofar as driving abroad, purchasing euros and making sure your travel insurance is valid are concerned. We asked a travel expert from comparison website MoneySupermarket to give you a run down of what you need to know. Here's what they said. You can still use your passport after Brexit Don't worry you'll still be able to use your current passport after 29 March 2019. But you won't be able to use the EU passport channels at airports so expect bigger queues and factor in more time to get past the border. A bigger issue is that after 29 March 2019, British visitors to the EU will be limited to a stay of 90 days in any 180-day period. Will you need a visa to go to Europe after Brexit? After 29 March 2019, there will be a transition period during which Brits won't need a visa to go to Europe. But that will change when the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is implemented in 2021. From 2021, British travellers will need to complete an online ETIAS application form before going to Europe. It will cost 7 to register for three years and you'll need to do it 72 hours before you want to travel. The ETIAS isn't a visa it's a visa waiver and will work in a similar way to the ESTA visa-waiver scheme in the US. Will flights be grounded on 29 March? There have been plenty of scare stories around about flights grinding to a halt on 29 March 2019 but that's unlikely to happen. In short, airlines need permission to fly over other countries' airspace. The UK government has said it would envisage granting permission to EU airlines to carry on as normal and would expect EU countries to reciprocate. However, experts have warned about flight delays and disruption at airports in the days immediately after 29 March. Can you claim if Brexit derails your plans? PACKAGE HOLIDAYS ARE COVERED Travellers can protect themselves by buying a packaged holiday as package travel regulations will remain in place. These ensure you get a refund if Brexit (or anything else) results in your package holiday being cancelled by the tour operator. Another option is only to book hotels with free cancellation then you won't be liable for your room costs if travel delays result in you abandoning your trip. Under the current EU regulation EC 261, passengers may be entitled to compensation of up to 600 for any flight delay of three or more hours, a cancelled flight or if they're denied boarding. These rules apply if the departure airport is within the EU, or the flight lands in the EU, and is operated by an EU-based carrier. At this stage we don't know if the UK would apply to remain within the EC 261 jurisdiction. Some transport providers have added 'Brexit clauses' to their terms and conditions. These generally state that they will not be liable for 'consequential losses' (such as hotel bookings and car hire) if travel plans are disrupted. Although we still don't know exactly what will happen after 29 March 2019, it's highly likely you will need at least six months validity on your passport to travel to most countries outside of the UK. Can I still drive in Europe? At the moment UK drivers don't need any additional documentation to drive in Europe. But this could change after Brexit. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, motorists driving their own car or a hire car are likely to need an International Driving Permit In the event of a no-deal Brexit, motorists driving their own car or a hire car are likely to need an International Driving Permit (IDP) which costs 5.50 from select Post Offices. There are two different IDPs used in various EU states so check which one you need before you set off and get it organised as far in advance as possible. There might be changes to insurance too. Currently car insurance policies issued in the UK are valid throughout the EU as well as Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Iceland. But post-Brexit motorists are likely to need a 'green card' from their insurance company to prove they have third party insurance (the legal minimum level of cover to drive abroad). There may be an admin charge for green cards we don't know yet and it could vary between insurers. When should I buy my euros? Currency always fluctuates and it's hard to say when the best time is to change up your pounds into euros. If you're worried about rate changes, you could consider buying some currency now and the rest at a later date, or closer to your holiday. A credit card offers great protection for overseas spending, but make sure you choose one that won't charge you for spending abroad The key to cost efficiency is planning ahead. Too many of us leave picking up our currency to the last minute at the airport, where you're likely to get a much poorer exchange rate. Instead, you could pre-order cash online for home delivery or collection at the airport. Another option is a pre-paid currency card, which is safer than carrying cash, can be topped up online and is likely to offer a more competitive exchange rate. Alternatively, a credit card offers great protection for overseas spending, but make sure you choose one that won't charge you for overseas spending and avoid using it for cash withdrawals as you'll be charged interest from day one (even if you pay off the balance). There is no doubt Neil Woodford is one of the countrys few star investment managers. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he has made serious money for thousands of long-term investors who have gone on to enjoy enriched retirements as a result of his prowess. World cruises lapped up, new cars excitedly purchased and investment pots inflated all as a result of this particular fund managers ability to make money for them from the stock market. More profits generated than nearly all his rivals. There is no doubt Neil Woodford is one of the countrys few star investment managers But is the Woodford star that shone so brilliantly in the 2000s at investment house Invesco Perpetual finally on the wane? Has Woodford, in his late 50s and perhaps with more money than sense, finally lost his Midas touch, his investment killer instinct? Is he disappearing down a proverbial black hole? More a case of was a star than is? Although Woodford answers with an emphatic No to each of these four questions and has come out fighting in recent days the charge sheet against the Oxfordshire-based fund manager is building by the month. Poor investment decisions, indifferent performance across his three funds Equity Income, Income Focus and Patient Capital the loss of big fund investors (Jupiter) and a financial kingdom that by his own admission could crumble to ruins in two-and-a-half years unless he quickly turns things around. Just imagine it. The fall of the Woodford investment empire. His flagship fund, the eponymous Woodford Equity Income, is melting faster than Greenlands glaciers as investors flee in search of better investment homes. For the past 21 consecutive months, more investors have pulled their cash from the fund than bought into it although in Woodfords defence, redemptions have slowed this year. From a peak of 10.2billion in May 2017, the funds value has shrunk by more than a half to 4.5billion. It is a downward spiral that will take all of Woodfords skills to arrest, although he argues the funds big positions in housebuilders (the likes of Barratt Developments and Taylor Wimpey) have great potential to grow provided the economy does not slide into recession. No guarantees there. 'I'll come good': What Woodford told Mail on Sunday 'Difficult period': Neil Woodford Speaking to the Mail on Sunday, Neil Woodford said: 'Undoubtedly, this has been a difficult period for investors in Equity Income I understand their disappointment and frustration. 'Ultimately, the criticism I receive is driven by performance and so let me explain what I am doing with your money and why. 'For me, everything in my investment world begins and ends with valuation. 'Although I have experienced some company-specific disappointments, the fund has underperformed because my valuation strategy has been completely out of step with a momentum-driven market. 'This is where market investors ignore valuation and buy stocks that have risen in price and sell those that have fallen. 'When I look at businesses, I judge their success or failure based on what they can control (say, actions of management) and what they cant, such as the economy in which they operate. 'This type of strategy will drive a fund manager towards certain stocks and away from others. 'From time to time, markets become detached from valuation reality and when they do, fund managers like me appear to be incapable of delivering good outcomes. 'I appreciate this can be an uncomfortable journey for investors but valuation is the only reliable predictor of long-term investment returns. 'I believe we are closer to an inflection point. The global economy is increasingly vulnerable. China is visibly slowing and the eurozone has slowed significantly. 'The US looks set to slow as Trumps fiscal stimulus wanes. The UK is one of the few bright spots employment, for instance, is at its highest level since 1971. 'I remain focused on capturing the opportunity that exists in parts of the market that have been left behind since we voted to leave the EU nearly three years ago. 'The result is a fund that has a strong but selective bias towards profoundly undervalued companies, many that are exposed to the UK economy. 'Crucially, the portfolio is positioned how I want it to be and is completely focused on a valuation opportunity, the likes of which I havent seen for 30 years.' Over the past one and three years, the fund has lost investors money registering losses of 5.6 per cent and 7.1 per cent respectively. They are time periods during which the FTSE All Share Index has risen by 7.5 per cent and 32.7 per cent respectively. Since launch in June 2014, Equity Income has been comprehensively outperformed by its peer group and the FTSE All Share Index although returns are positive (plus 9.9 per cent). There is little solace to be found elsewhere in the Woodford ranks. Income Focus, a 573million fund with a mandate to generate a steady income (5p a share), is still in negative territory, with recorded losses since launch in early 2017 of nearly 13 per cent. Over the same period, the average UK equity income fund and the FTSE All Share Index have delivered positive returns. The last piece of the Woodford jigsaw, investment trust Patient Capital, is hardly a picture of rude health. How blunders stacked up at flagship fund Woodford's stock-picking skills have been called into question on numerous occasions since Equity Income was launched in June 2014. Stakes in companies such as doorstep lender Provident Financial currently subject to a takeover approach Stobart Group, Kier Group and Purplebricks have all come under price pressure. These include regulatory issues (Provident), problems in overseas operations (Purplebricks), a cut in dividends and profits dive (Kier) and governance issues at Stobart. Investment specialist Allied Minds, another holding, has also had problems, resulting in management announcing a round of major cost cutting. All these companies remain in Equity Incomes 102-stock portfolio. Provident remains a top five holding, along with Barratt Developments, Imperial Brands, Burford Capital and Theravance Biopharma. This trust, investing in minnow companies, has seen its share price fall by a fifth since launch in April 2015, although Woodford has always maintained that profits will only come to investors who are patient and play the long game (five to ten years). So should investors in flagship Woodford Equity Income now take their losses on the chin and look for an alternative home for their money? Or should they wait in the hope of Woodford coming good as he did at Invesco Perpetual in 2000 when his funds came out of the carnage of the dotcom bubble blowout smelling of roses? Last week, Wealth asked leading investment experts a simple question: should investors in Woodfords flagship fund Equity Income stick or fold? Bar one notable exception Hargreaves Lansdown that still includes the fund in its recommended list of top wealth 50 investment vehicles they advised either folding or at the very least taking a long hard look at whether the fund now remains appropriate in terms of investor risk and objectives. Dzmitry Lipski, investment analyst at Interactive Investor, says Woodfords investment style has changed dramatically since his days at Invesco Perpetual where he built his reputation investing in large cap (essentially FTSE 100) stocks. Now, he says, Equity Income has a heavy small and mid-cap bias which is not an obvious hunting ground for investors looking for income. For this reason alone, he adds, we would look for alternatives. Ryan Hughes of AJ Bell says he has higher conviction in other UK equity investment managers while Ben Yearsley, of Plymouth-based Shore Financial Planning, says investors should switch out of Equity Income although he still likes Income Focus because of its income bent. Justine Fearns, research manager at adviser Chase de Vere, says that if the fund represents a large position in an investors allocation to UK equities, there is a strong argument for selling at least some of it and diversifying into other funds. For those looking to move on from Woodford, there are alternatives. Wealth has come up with a list of other investment gurus worth considering those renowned for generating attractive total returns and those with an income bent. BEST OF THE REST As well as being a fan of Yarrow at Evenlode, Jason Hollands, of fund platform Bestinvest, likes Richard Colwell at Threadneedle UK Equity Income. Top holdings include AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Imperial Brands and WM Morrison. He is also a fan of Ben Whitmore at Jupiter Income, a contrarian renowned for identifying undervalued companies. Yearsley likes Adrian Frost at Artemis Income the grandfather of equity income investing and Clive Beagles at JO Hambro UK Equity Income (an excellent long-term investor). Beagles is also liked by Fund Experts Brian Dennehy. Chases Fearns is a fan of Carl Stick who has run Rathbone Income since 2000 and Daniel Roberts who has managed Fidelity Global Dividend for the past seven years. Laith Khalaf likes Frost and Whitmore while Interactives Lipski opts for Job Curtis (27 years managing income friendly investment trust City of London) and Martin Cholwill, manager of Royal London UK Equity Income for more than a decade. Finally, AJ Bells Hughes likes Henry Dixon at Man GLG UK Income. With a dividend yield in excess of four per cent, his fund pays investors a monthly income. People wanting to invest in a way that will make their grandchildren proud are increasingly turning to ethical Isas. These are plans where money is allocated to shares, funds, bonds or even cash deposits that go towards companies or projects that make a positive impact on society. Those looking at these socially responsible options for their 20,000 Isa allowance this tax year are joining a small but growing band that is burgeoning faster than the market as a whole. Popular: The over-55s are amongst those most passionate about ethical investing According to the Investment Association, sales of ethically minded funds leapt from about 371million to 1.3billion in the three years to 2018 while total fund sales to retail investors fell from 23billion to minus 5.5billion where overall more investments were sold than purchased. The original ethical funds simply shunned 'sinner' shares such as tobacco and firearms manufacturers. But the more modern approach is to back companies that make their money from doing something positive, including doing business in a fair and progressive way. The purist ethical investor might disapprove but an oil company developing renewable energy alternatives would even make the grade in this brave new world of responsible investing. Rebecca Jones, of investment website Good With Money, says the ethical approach can only grow in importance because 'the world's problems are not going to solve themselves'. She says: 'There is a 1.9billion gap to fill to meet the United Nations' sustainable development goals which include the transition to clean, safe energy and water, equality of women and healthcare and education for all.' Altruistic: Meg Blumsom, 68, has been investing ethically on behalf of her three grandchildren Evidence suggests that investors need not sacrifice profit for their principles. Fund analysis firm 3D Investing found that nearly four out of five of the 300 funds that it considers to have good to strong sustainability credentials outperformed their sectors in the three years to the end of February. While the trend for ethical investing is often associated with the altruistic young, a new survey by investment trust Impax Environmental Markets suggests that the over-55s are amongst those most passionate about backing companies that are making a beneficial impact. Among them is Meg Blumsom, 68, a retired probation officer from Cirencester who has three young grandchildren. She has been investing ethically on the youngsters' behalf for several years through Isas with ethical bank Triodos. She says: 'I am concerned for my grandchildren's future not just to help them with university fees or getting on the housing ladder, but what sort of life will be there for them in the future. 'By investing ethically I am able to do something positive, either by supporting renewable energy or through helping to develop sustainable communities.' Prime Minister Theresa May might have bought herself a few more days to avoid a No Deal Brexit, but the prospect of Britain crashing out without an agreement remains a real possibility. And that could have big implications for UK shares. Amid all the noise around Brexit last week, the European Securities and Markets Authority (Esma) chose an odd moment to reveal that EU banks and asset managers would have to trade shares of UK-based firms on Continental exchanges rather than in London if Britain leaves the EU without a deal. Esma said 14 stocks had enough liquidity on Continental exchanges that they did not need to be bought or sold in London, even if that is their main listing. Brexit chaos: Protesters at the 'Put It To The People March' on Saturday in London The 14 are: BHP, G4S, Rio Tinto, BP, Shell (A and B shares), GlaxoSmithKline, Vodafone, AstraZeneca, Relx, Coca-Cola European Partners, TechnipFMC, EnQuest and Dialog Semiconductor. Some of these are among the worlds biggest firms. It means trading volumes of these shares, and therefore the FTSE 100, could tumble if Britain crashes out. Little wonder the Financial Conduct Authority is up in arms about it. The Local Shopping REIT ding-dong A good old-fashioned shareholder ding-dong broke out at The Local Shopping REIT last week. LSR, which owns high street properties, wants to wind down the firm and return cash to shareholders after a poor performance that has left it with a market value of just 23million. But shareholder Thalassa Holdings isnt happy. Its chairman Duncan Soukup has launched a takeover offer for LSR and urged shareholders to consider that instead of listening to the weak and misleading statements of a failed board that has only ever destroyed shareholder value. Punchy! The first closing of Thalassas offer is on Wednesday. Fever-Tree shares could lose more of their fizz Alcoholic mixer maker Fever-Tree could provide some tonic for investors suffering pre-Brexit nerves. The British soft drinks maker, probably best known for its gin accompaniments, is expected to reveal revenues bubbled up 39 per cent to 236 million last year. Earnings will be up by a third to 77.5million, according to forecasts. However, sales and profit growth at these levels would be well below 60 per cent-plus levels of growth achieved in 2017. Any slight disappointment could cause the shares to lose more of their fizz after a 9 per cent fall on Friday. Apple rumours Apple's army of fans will be glued to their screens tomorrow night. The iPhone giant has pencilled in an event in California that is widely expected to see it launch a TV streaming service. Rumours that Apple is set to go after similar Netflix and Amazon services have been floating around for years, but it has yet to make a move into this space. If the launch fails to impress, then the companys shares, which have recovered this year after the tech rout, could take a hit. Apples deep pockets are no guarantee of success. Contributor: William Turvill The new boss of BT, Philip Jansen, has become one of Britain's richest executives after a massive windfall. He is in line for a 43million payout after his former employer Worldpay agreed to a 32billion merger. Jansen quit as co-chief executive of the London-listed payments processor last year to take over from Gavin Patterson at BT. Windfall: Philip Jansen is in line for a 43million payout Now Worldpay Inc has given the nod to a takeover by American financial technology giant FIS. Jansen still holds more than 507,000 shares in the company, meaning he is in line for around 43million based on the takeover price of $112 (85) a share. The deal is mostly in shares, but partly in cash, which means Jansen will immediately pocket 4.3million. Because he is no longer working for Worldpay, he could also sell the remaining shares should he choose to do so. BT, where Jansen began working last month, declined to comment on the windfall or his plans for the shares. The value of Worldpay has soared following a series of transactions. Jansen was chief executive of Worldpay when it was acquired by Vantiv in a 9.3billion takeover in 2017. It was renamed Worldpay Inc and Jansen became co-chief executive of the enlarged group. Jansen defended the large sum he made from the Vantiv takeover at the time, insisting the money 'is not important to me' because he had already made a fortune from floating the company on the London Stock Exchange in 2015. Worldpay was founded in 1997 by entrepreneur Nick Ogden and was owned by Royal Bank of Scotland until it was forced to sell it in 2010 as part of the European Commission's clearance of its taxpayer bailout. The buyers were private equity firms Advent and Bain which then floated the company on the London Stock Exchange in 2015. Jansen had joined as chief executive in 2013 and led the company's float. He was hired by BT's chairman Jan du Plessis last year in an effort to turn around the fortunes of the ailing telecoms giant. Former boss Patterson was sacked after investors lost faith in his revamp and the company's share price collapsed. Marks & Spencer is sizing up ambitious growth targets that could see the company double the amount of food it sells and propel it into the ranks of Britain's biggest supermarkets. The surge would capitalise on the firm's new home delivery deal with Ocado and its plan to offer a full range of food in more stores to attract additional family shoppers. City sources said the newly pencilled targets could see M&S's food sales soar to 12billion over the next five years. That is larger than the company's total sales at present, which include food, clothing and international sales. On the rise: Marks & Spencer's ambitious growth targets could see it eclipse food sales at Waitrose and Co-op Success would result in the firm sailing past arch rivals Waitrose and Co-op and perhaps even start to challenge Morrisons as it seeks to return to its roots as a store with broad appeal. Germans Aldi and Lidl are also growing rapidly. A source told The Mail on Sunday the target reflected an 'aspiration rather than a plan' at present but said it had been discussed at senior levels within the business. The source added: 'This brings everything together and all adds up to a big push.' But it also reflects a new-found optimism in the business which has been slow to react to the massive shifts in the retail market over the past decade. The grand vision for the company's food business follows a 'transformational' agreement last month that will mean the chain replaces supermarket Waitrose as the main partner to 1.5billion delivery service Ocado. The home shopping firm has been growing at 13 per cent a year. A new blueprint for more M&S Food stores to carry the full range of more than 6,500 products was revealed by The Mail on Sunday a week ago and will provide the company with fresh momentum. A spokesman for M&S said the company did not comment on 'speculation'. But another senior source at one City institution, who declined to be named, said he thought the potential to double food sales was 'in the right ball park'. He added: 'Food is now absolutely the engine for growth. M&S needs to focus on growing sales and cannot afford to cut itself profit growth while it executes that. The full range is pretty spectacular when you see it, but it's rare that you do because only a small number of stores carry it.' Only about a dozen shops across the country offer the entire range at present. The company is expected to use parts of shops currently selling clothing to be able to stock the full range of food in more branches. It is understood that out-of-town stores and shops with car parking space will be a priority. The vision for food is likely to be regarded as ambitious by many inside the business. It is not clear if the target will be made public in the short term. Marks & Spencer's current annual sales total about 10.7billion, which includes around 6 billion of food sales and 3.7billion of clothing and home products. Waitrose's sales were 6.4billion last year while Morrisons the smallest of the so-called Big Four grocery chains behind Tesco, Sainsbury's and Asda respectively said its total sales in stores and via online deliveries were in excess of 13billion. Meanwhile, Marks & Spencer is also trying to revitalise its clothing sales. Despite struggling sales in stores the division has recently been enjoying much more flattering online success. British technology tycoon Mike Lynch last night hit out at 'outrageous' new claims in the US that he laundered money, destroyed documents and paid 'hush money' to cover up an alleged fraud. The new criminal charges brought by the US government stunned Lynch and his team of lawyers on the eve of a blockbuster High Court battle in London. The US Department of Justice (DoJ) on Friday night added three counts of conspiracy and securities fraud to its existing charge sheet against Lynch, carrying even heavier potential sentences. Charges: Mike Lynch, who founded Cambridge-based software firm Autonomy Lynch is accused of cooking the books of his Cambridge-based software firm Autonomy before an ill-fated 8.3billion takeover by Californian computer giant Hewlett Packard. The latest set of charges, which carry a maximum 25-year sentence if the Autonomy founder is found guilty, represent a major blow to Lynch as he heads to the High Court in London tomorrow. The $5.1billion trial brought by HP in the UK is one of the most eagerly anticipated cases ever involving a British businessman. Lynch is countersuing for $160million, claiming his reputation has been damaged by the allegations. It means Lynch, once dubbed 'Britain's Bill Gates', now faces an intensifying battle on two fronts. He will hope to clear his name in London over the coming months, but it remains unclear whether he will travel to America to contest the DoJ's charges or fight extradition. In the US, he has now been accused by the DoJ of trying to 'cover up, conceal, influence witnesses to, and otherwise obstruct investigations' into the alleged conspiracy related to the sale of Autonomy to HP in 2011. Lynch is alleged to have fraudulently inflated the accounts at the FTSE 100 software firm before the takeover, causing HP to write down the value of the deal by 6.7 billion shortly after. Lynch strongly denies any wrongdoing and claims the write-downs came from differences between US and UK accounting standards. Lynch is accused of cooking the books of Autonomy before HP's takeover In November last year, the DoJ first filed charges against Lynch and Stephen Chamberlain, Autonomy's former vice president of finance. It has now added a series of new and even more damaging charges and allegations against Lynch. These include claims that he bought a total of $4.2million worth of shares last year in private companies backed by his investment firm Invoke Capital from Sushovan Hussain, Autonomy's former chief financial officer. Hussain was convicted in the US last year for his part in the alleged fraud and is still awaiting sentencing. The new allegations include details of four separate 100million bank transfers made by Lynch into different bank accounts after the Autonomy takeover. Last night, a spokesman for Lynch said: 'These are baseless, egregious charges issued on the eve of the trial in the UK, where this case belongs, and Dr Lynch denies them vigorously.' Lynch's lawyers Chris Morvillo, of Clifford Chance, and Reid Weingarten, of Steptoe & Johnson, called the new charges unveiled in San Francisco 'outrageous' and questioned the timing given the High Court trial tomorrow. They said: 'Something is horribly amiss in San Francisco, where the Wild West 'shoot first, ask questions later' approach to investigations originally deployed by HP in this case is sadly still alive and well.' If Lynch, who lives in a Georgian manor house in Suffolk, does go to America to try to clear his name in court, he risks potential conviction. However, if he refuses to travel, the US could try to extradite him. HP's lawyers will lay out their case against Lynch on Monday and Tuesday. On HP's side is Laurence Rabinowitz QC, of One Essex Court. On Wednesday and Thursday, Lynch will give his defence. Defending the entrepreneur is Robert Miles QC, of 4 Stone Buildings, who has worked on cases involving Robert Maxwell and Bernie Madoff. On the civil case, a spokesman said: 'Mike Lynch is pleased to finally have the opportunity to respond in court to HP's accusations. There was no fraud at Autonomy.' He's the advertising guru behind the famous Levi's launderette commercial, Audi's legendary 'Vorsprung durch Technik' catchphrase and the memorable 'Lynx effect' campaign. Now, Sir John Hegarty, one of Britain's original 'Mad Men' who co-founded agency Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH) in the 1980s, has a new message for the world: the time has come to break up the internet giants, which have strangled the advertising industry online, acted 'irresponsibly' and even held back economic growth in the UK. 'They're sucking money out, not paying tax on it and destroying what they've left behind,' he tells me in a top-floor bar area at the annual Advertising Week Europe event in Central London. Legendary: Sir John Hegarty, one of the co-founders of agency Bartle Bogle Hegarty It's an extraordinary attack particularly given that the crop of start-ups which Hegarty has invested in, housed and nurtured through his Garage Soho business incubator rely heavily on Facebook and Google for advertising. The two web companies have become so powerful that they dominate digital advertising. In the final three months of 2018 alone, Google generated a staggering $32.6billion worldwide revenues from advertising. Facebook made $16.6billion global revenues from advertising in the same period. Google's advertising revenues doubled between 2011 and 2017 and, with Facebook, the two companies scoop up 90 per cent of new digital advertising spending in the UK. 'These companies have turned into monopolies, and when you get a monopoly they eradicate innovation because they want to keep things as they are,' Hegarty says, referring to a 'buy 'em and kill 'em' approach to dealing with competitors. Hegarty's comments come a week after a hard-hitting Government-commissioned report called for tougher competition laws to crack down on the 'bullying tactics' and 'killer' takeover strategies of the US giants. Essentially this is a creative industry... so how come the richest man in it is an accountant? The review revealed that Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Google and Microsoft had swallowed up more than 400 smaller rivals over the past decade with little scrutiny from regulators. In the advertising sector alone, Google bought giant rival DoubleClick for $3.1billion in 2007 (around double the price it paid for YouTube a year earlier) and has subsumed several other major players including Ad Exchange. Just a day before we meet, Google is fined 1.5billion by the European Commission for abusing its dominant digital advertising position. 'Google are making nearly $9billion [profit] a quarter so when you fine them 1.5billion, it's like taking somebody out for lunch...one hell of a lunch,' Hegarty says. Born to Irish parents in North London, the 74-year-old had a working-class upbringing. He went to the London College of Printing [now Communication] and it was there his love of advertising began. Sir John Hegarty, 74, Hates meetings Lives: Clerkenwell, London, but also owns a vineyard in the South of France. Car: Range Rover Sport. Favourite Film: One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest. Favourite film: One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest Favourite Book: Sapiens: A Brief History Of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari. Hobbies: Art. Message for creative people: If you read s***, youll think s*** and create s***. Dislikes: Meetings and brainstorming sessions. If Im in a meeting and it gets boring I just get up and go. He has always gone against the grain. He founded BBH in 1982 with John Bartle and Nigel Bogle and quickly became known for its iconic advertising campaigns. Thirty years later, when BBH was sold to Publicis, Hegarty had become a legend, known for his unconventional ideas. The big ad agencies, including WPP and Publicis, are now all struggling with the challenges of digital advertising and the changing market. Before, they created TV and print ads. Now, it is not quite so simple as Facebook and Google control the online market and take a huge share of spending. Instead of the old-school scattergun approach to advertising, the online industry increasingly involves targeting specific groups of people identified by complex data analysis. This data, ultimately, is held by the likes of Google, which controls a long supply chain where each participant takes a cut. Websites say that whereas in the past they might have received more than 80p for every 1 spent by a company advertising with them, they now receive nearer 30p. Google's dominance means it can keep an iron grip on these prices. Ill never retire. Nobody ever asks David Hockney if he is going to retire. Lifes just too interesting Sir Martin Sorrell, another British ad mogul, believes using this type of new technology and data to target specific audiences online represents the future for the big ad agencies and they must adapt. But Hegarty disagrees. He thinks agencies which are the most creative will be the ones which survive. He bemoans the lack of creative people at the top of these giant agencies and even has a dig at Sorrell for 'stripping creativity out of WPP'. He says Sorrell, who left WPP amid allegations strongly denied by Sorrell that he paid a prostitute using company money, won't have a legacy because he's a 'financial guy' rather than a creative type who has come up with ideas or campaigns that will 'live on'. 'Essentially this is a creative industry. So how come the richest man in it is an accountant?' Hegarty asks. 'He [Sorrell] hasn't created anything, he's just taken other companies and bolted them together. And eventually the bolts rusted and it all fell apart.' Hegarty on WPP founder Sorrell: He won't have a legacy because he's a 'financial guy' rather than a creative type But Hegarty doesn't dispute that the rise of the internet has changed the way the ad industry works and made tighter regulation 'essential'. 'All corporations will want to monopolise,' he explains. 'It's in their nature. They'll grow as fast and as big as they can, exclude competition, dominate the market, keep it where it is.' He believes a break-up is inevitable, raising the prospect of Facebook being forced to sell Instagram as one of the first steps. While the political rhetoric is dominated by Brexit, Hegarty believes the economy has stagnated over the past 15 years and he points the finger at tech companies, partly, for taking far too large a share of advertising spend and not giving enough of the money to the companies which create ads and display them. 'They've been allowed to not just disrupt, but disrupt irresponsibly,' he says. 'They don't pay taxes and things like that. And they're not putting back into the economy. They're sucking all this money out and it's not going back into the economy,' he says. He uses a newspaper analogy to explain. 'If I put more money into newspaper advertising, the newspaper can have more features, employ more journalists, it can have more advertisers in. It's a virtuous circle you're creating. I'm not sure that the tech companies as of yet are creating a virtuous circle.' Before setting up his own agency, Hegarty worked with Charles Saatchi at Cramer Saatchi, which he joined in 1967 Politicians are partly to blame, he says, because they are 'so behind on what's actually going on' and so slow to act. Facebook denies it is a media company and claims it only hosts content from news sites. But it already decides which sites its users should be reading more of. Hegarty says: 'You can't be a platform and/or a media company. 'You've got to be one or the other. So that claim that, 'we're a bit like the telephone companies in that we can't control the conversation' is b******s. BT weren't selling my conversation to somebody else. It was a private conversation.' He is, of course, referring to concerns about data privacy and misuse, which Facebook has been fined over. Hegarty also has 'strong views' about protecting children online. 'You wouldn't allow a child to go into a bar and order a double vodka. You wouldn't allow a child to go into an X-rated movie. We've all these controls on things and yet they can go online and get everything they like. 'The tech companies don't want to stop that because they get more eyeballs.' Before setting up his own agency, Hegarty worked with Charles Saatchi at Cramer Saatchi, which he joined in 1967, before becoming a founding shareholder of the world-renowned Saatchi and Saatchi agency in 1970. With so much change since then, what would Hegarty's strategy be if he were starting out in the industry today? Would he join a big agency or pin his hopes on an innovative digital rival? He says he's drawn to the world of 'influencers', where celebrities and social media stars are paid by brands to post promotional pictures and messages to their followers. 'I might be a creative influencer and join Whalar [one of his start-ups which helps brands work with influencers],' Hegarty enthuses. 'But I love being in a community of creative people too. What an agency can do is create an environment where you bounce off other creative people. I'd probably do both.' Like fellow septuagenarian Sorrell, who has started S4 Capital, Hegarty has no plans to head off into the sunset, even to his vineyard in the South of France. He is revelling in helping creative start-ups make their way, although admits he has called the 'undertaker' for some already. 'I'll never retire. It's like pulling the plug,' he says with a grimace just at the thought of it. 'Nobody ever asks David Hockney if he's going to retire. Life's too interesting,' he adds with a grin. MPs have asked the City watchdog to stop banks hounding indebted business customers after The Mail on Sunday revealed that an entrepreneur was going on hunger strike over the scandal. Tory MP Kevin Hollinrake has written to the Financial Conduct Authority requesting a moratorium that would prevent banks and debt collectors from chasing small firms through the courts if they are waiting for complaints against lenders to be examined. The plea from Hollinrake, who co-chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Fair Business Banking, comes after ruined property investor John Guidi, 63, camped outside the offices of his bank on hunger strike last week. Property investor John Guidi during his protest Guidi, who faces eviction from his home, claims he was mis-sold 10million of loans by Clydesdale Bank. The APPG estimates that Guidi is one of 60,000 entrepreneurs who may have legitimate compensation claims against banks under a dispute resolution scheme that is due to launch in September. The scheme, run by banking industry body UK Finance, will deal with historic cases dating back to 2008 in which entrepreneurs feel they are owed compensation for treatment at the hands of their banks. Hollinrake and other MPs are concerned that potential victims are suffering further damage ahead of their cases being considered because banks and other firms are pursuing their debts. In Guidis case, his debt has been sold by Clydesdale Bank owner CYBG to an arm of Cerberus, a US private equity giant. Guidi blames CYBG for the collapse of his empire which at its peak boasted 150 properties and annual revenues of 800,000 and wants his former bank to step in and help him. He claims Clydesdale bankers mis-sold him 10million worth of loans and then abruptly withdrew funding, leading to a crisis for his business. With Cerberus now chasing his debts, Guidi faces imminent eviction from his home of 30 years. In a bid to persuade CYBG boss David Duffy to intervene, Guidi embarked on his hunger strike outside the banks Glasgow offices last week. He put the protest on hold after four days to travel down to London for a meeting with Duffy. Guidi said: I am convinced that David Duffy is genuinely concerned about my plight. Our negotiations were constructive and I hope they will continue in that way in the next week. As a result I am suspending my hunger strike further to Friday, March 29. Guidis protest led to a Parliamentary debate last Tuesday, when City Minister John Glen was grilled on his plight and the troubles of other entrepreneurs. Angela Crawley, Guidis local MP, said: This tragic case brings attention to the vulnerability of UK businesses to abusive treatment by lenders and vulture funds, and the inadequacy of current regulation in preventing it. Sadly, John is not alone. Hollinrake last night told The Mail on Sunday he was hopeful Guidis case could help persuade the FCA to intervene and stop banks from chasing the debts of entrepreneurs with outstanding complaints. He added: John has done everyone a great service. It shows the desperation and real anger [of entrepreneurs]. As a consequence of Johns particular case, weve been able to highlight issues in Parliament, which has helped escalate the issue to a position where people will start doing something about it. Richard Lefebvre hands BCC President Ellen Kennedy a printing block he was using to machine gild card stock. Michael Sprague, at left in vest, explains how his printing machine works to Adams Selectman Chairman John Duval, Kevin Pink of 1Berkshire, MCLA Associate Dean Paul Petritis, McCann Superintendent James Brosnan, North Adams Superintendent Barbara Malkas and BCC President Ellen Kennedy. Officials representing North Adams and Adams, local schools, state officials and economic development attend Friday's presentation. On the floor of Crane Stationery. The company printed its own picnic invitations to employees. Kathy Reynolds holds a pop-up Christmas card that is assembled and boxed at Crane. Julie Wojcik painstakingly paints borders on stacks of card stock. PreviousNext Crane Stationery Reinvesting in Rebranding, Workforce Bart Robinsoin, left, Paul Thorogood and Dean Daigle speak to local officials on Friday at Crane Stationery. NORTH ADAMS, Mass. The owners of Crane Stationery are doubling down on their commitment to the company and to the community by investing $3 million to $4 million in rebranding and growth over the next few years. The high-end stationery maker on Curran Highway was purchased last year by Mohawk Fine Papers, a family-owned paper company based in Cohoes, N.Y. At the time, Mohawk's officials pledged not only to continue Crane's operations and brand lines but to invest in its products and the workforce. "We're going to double our size, there's no doubt in our mind that we can do that," said Bart Robinson, chief revenue officer. "It's going to take us time, it's not to happen this year or next year but we need to start looking at talent we can tap into as we move forward." Company officials laid out their plans on Friday morning to local officials from Adams and North Adams and educational leaders from area schools and colleges after a tour highlighting the company's workers and processes. 1Berkshire had helped facilitate the presentation. "We really think there is a great opportunity to expand," Robinson said. "We have a rich history but we've been doing the same thing for a long, long time and we think we've been put in a box and we need to get outside that box. "We need to be able to design products for a larger audience and be more inclusive." The brand's been linked for years with an exclusive clientele ranging from the White House to Beyonce to Tiffany & Co. Robinson described it as "affluent country club," West Coast, New England and Texas. It's boxed products have barely been available in its own home county, something Robinson said they're working to change. Paul Thorogood, chief product officer, said the objective was to rebuild the brand to be more in line with contemporary needs while maintaining its luxury cachet. Back in 1801, Crane & Co. had been a disrupter and an innovator in the ways people communicated, he said, and it had the capability to be so again. "We don't want to just redefine Crane, we want to redefine what stationery means, how people act and interact with each other," he said. One factor will be an attempt to bring back the "& Co." to the name, a second will be a completely new website, a third will be to expand the company's products and partnerships. A design team is working on a rebranding scheme that will start rolling out by the end of the year, one that will integrate a focus on services, fashion, design and lifestyle. Thorogood, who spent time in Silicon Valley and seven years at Moo.com, said the company's true competitors are printing businesses like Moo, Shutterfly and Minted easy access online purveyors that have had tremendous growth over the past decade. Both Moo and Minted had revenues north of $100 million and Shutterfly at least three times that. "We can act like a 200-year-old startup, and we can look at what all the other players in the digital market are doing, see what their problems are and leapfrog them," he said. "We don't want to build to get to them, we want to get built to surpass them." The company's customers break down to about equal thirds for wedding invitations, boxed goods and occasional or event products. But barely 20 percent of its orders come from online the bulk are from retailers. Thorogood said the goal is to make that closer to 50/50 through growth. "We want to start comparing ourselves to this and we don't see any reason we can't get there eventually," Thorogood said. "We are behind a firewall of retail we need to connect with our consumers in a faster way. ... "We need to shake off a little bit of the cobwebs to kind of move ourselves out where we are and be more appealing." Officials anticipate buyers will begin to see incremental changes by the end of the year and going into 2020. Some of these changes will be behind the scenes in making the company leaner and more agile: for example, it's simplifying its sample books from 14 to 6 and has already reduced its inventory over the past year by $1.5 million, largely because Mohawk is able to directly produce paper for Crane. Another factor will be investment in equipment and workforce hiring and training. Crane anticipates hiring a director of engineering and several other in-house staff including a photographer to help focus on social media. It's already added an in-house sales team. Its greatest asset is the equipment and its 270 or so skilled workforce ranging from million-dollar ink printers and 50-year-old letter presses to employees who handcraft thousands of items a day. Dean Daigle, chief operating officer, said one order could go through 16 touchpoints before completion. "There's not another print facility that has the unique capabilities that we do under one roof," Robinson said. Crane's also investing in the workforce monetarily, through training and development, and by building an esprit de corps through company picnics, parties and activities. "The one thing that I will glowingly talk about all the time is the pride the people in this facility take in the work that they do," said Robinson. Daigle said he wanted to keep in touch with officials on how to help the community and work with area schools on how to develop future employees. "I want to see the workforce needs that you have filled by people here," said Mayor Thomas Bernard. "And if we can't, that we're bringing people to North Adams, to North Berkshire to live, to work to be part of what you're trying to accomplish." LIMERICK State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-146th., will hold an informational event April 3 to help community members get the information they need on REAL ID. Ciresi has teamed up with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for the event, which will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Limerick Township Building, 646 W. Ridge Pike. REAL IDs are available for Pennsylvanians who want them. They are optional, but starting Oct. 1, 2020, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant drivers license, photo ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification to board a domestic commercial flight or enter a federal building or military installation that requires ID. REAL ID can be confusing, so Im happy to bring resources to my district to help community members navigate the process, said Ciresi. Anyone with questions should contact Ciresis district office at 484-200-8265. What role does faith play in your life, your public life and your private life? This was a question Democratic presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren was asked recently at a CNN town hall. In her reply, she focused on Jesus saying: When you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me. I was hungry and you gave me food, she said, I was thirsty and you gave me water, I was in prison and you visited me, I was naked and you clothed me. That passage is not about you had a good thought and held onto it, she said. Thoughts about good things are not enough. It does not say, you just didnt hurt anybody, and thats good enough. No. It says, you saw something wrong. You saw somebody who was thirsty. You saw somebody who was in prison. You saw their face. You saw somebody who was hungry, and it moved you to act. I believe we are called on to act. This means, she said, there is God. There is value in every single human being. Around the same time, Philadelphia Archbishop Charles J. Chaput was speaking at the University of Mary in North Dakota, at the vocations jamboree. (They are old friends of mine there, and I am on their Board of Regents.) Time is precious, he said. Time matters. It matters because we really have so little of it in any life, and if we misuse it, we never get it back. Ill be 75 this year, so Im old. Many of you here tonight are young. In a sense, Im already the past. Youre the present. Time and experience separate us. But when we listen to and learn from each other, we make a future for the Gospel by using our time well together in the world. We cant be reminded enough of this, can we? Days go by so quickly and how are we using the time? The archbishop also quoted C.S. Lewis describing Christianity as a fighting religion. Chaput explained: Our weapons are very different from the hatred and violence of a battlefield, but the combat is just as real. Spiritual warfare has a long and Biblically rooted tradition in Christian life because Satan is real, evil is real, and theres no neutral ground in the struggle for the soul of the world. In the end, were either with God and for God, or were against him. We need to choose. Also around the same time, I got into an Uber in Manhattan and somewhat mysteriously the driver delivered a discourse on angels and hell. People are lying and cheating and stealing and murdering. It is evil and it is everywhere. My Muslim cab driver named Mohammed continued: The angels are everywhere, too, and only do what God wants. The angels are writing everything down. They are keeping a book. They have the record. God will be the judge. Everything you do matters to you going to heaven or to hell. People do go to hell. People dont want to talk about this. People dont want to know this. We must talk about this. We must know this. This has everything to do with the early presidential season and our political lives, because our political lives cant be separated from our lives. Theres no other way to live that makes sense. And thats why, I cant help but be stuck a wee bit on Elizabeth Warren saying: There is value in every single human being. This is not a Democrat vs. Republican thing. We all have our faults. This is a humanity thing. That there is value in every single human being is a meditation for us all because there is more we all can be doing. And in a particular way, we should be shaken by the ongoing debates about third-term abortion and the survivors of abortion. Presidential candidates (Beto ORourke, the latest, as I write) look like they are set to run with talking points about women making decisions for themselves and their bodies. We need to start honestly looking at the faces of children on sonograms and the adult survivors of botched abortion attempts who have survived. These are humans with value. Every human being includes them. And until we are honest about this until politicians are brave enough to challenge the Planned Parenthood establishment that has a stranglehold in a particular way on the Democratic Party Warrens words will be just words. Dont get me wrong, Republicans and the pro-life movement has miles to go, too on adoption and foster care and helping women get on and stay on their feet. But it is the Democratic Party that has, at times, waged war on womens care centers and some of the other frontline helps to women and children. And which is loyal to an ideology that simply doesnt value all human lives. Right now, they are being fairly open about it in the abortion survivors debate. Elizabeth Warren and I probably agree on very little. But that passage stirs me, too. It makes me think about love and it makes me think about hell and Gods judgment. If this were to be the presidential cycle where we honestly thought about that, what a difference it could make. (Kathryn Jean Lopez is senior fellow at the National Review Institute, editor-at-large of National Review Online and founding director of Catholic Voices USA. She can be contacted at klopez@nationalreview.com.) After weeks of criticism over its U.S. manufacturing cuts, General Motors said Friday it plans to spend $300 million to build a new electric car at its Orion Assembly Plant north of Detroit and provided a vigorous defense of its U.S. manufacturing commitment. GM said it plans to add about 400 workers at the Orion factory, which currently builds the electric Chevrolet Bolt, autonomous vehicles for GM's Cruise unit, and the Chevy Sonic compact car. GM CEO Mary Barra made the announcement at a meeting involving UAW officials and elected officials, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who gathered at the 4.3 million-square foot plant in Lake Orion, Mich., which employs about 1,166 people. "GM is absolutely committed to investing in and growing good-paying manufacturing jobs in the United States," Barra said, part of an implicit response to President Donald Trump's attacks on the company's move to idle its factory in Lordstown, Ohio. Barra said provisions of the proposed new trade agreement among the United States, Mexico and Canada helped persuade GM that the vehicle should be built in the United States. A company statement said the announcement was part of GM's "new commitment to invest a total of $1.8 billion in its United States manufacturing operations, creating 700 new jobs and supporting 28,000 jobs across six states." Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Barra declined to release any details about the new EV or timing on the investment. A GM spokesman said the $1.8 billion investment will unfold over the next two to three years, likewise so will the investment in Orion. Barra vigorously defended GM's U.S. investments during the announcement. The Detroit carmaker has been the target of harsh criticism since Nov. 26, when it announced its plan to idle five plants in North America this year and early next year, affecting some 6,200 jobs. GM has said the cuts will save it $2.5 billion this year. GM has said the ultimate fate of the plants will be determined in contract talks with the UAW this summer. Albany New York state's ban on personal ownership of stun guns is unconstitutional, a federal judge ruled Friday in the latest in a series of court decisions that have led to the loosening of restrictions on the weapons in several states. The decision came in a lawsuit filed by Matthew Avitabile, of Schoharie County, New York, who said he wanted to buy a stun gun for self-defense in his rural upstate home. His lawyers argued that New York's longstanding ban on civilian ownership of stun guns violated the Second Amendment right to bear arms. U.S. District Judge David Hurd agreed. "New York's sweeping prohibition on the possession and use of tasers and stun guns by all citizens for all purposes, even for self-defense in one's own home, must be declared unconstitutional," Hurd wrote in his decision. The lawsuit named the superintendent of the state police, the agency that enforces New York's weapons laws. New York attorney general's office, which defends the state in lawsuits, referred questions to state police or Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office. Cuomo adviser Richard Azzopardi said that state lawyers are reviewing the decision and that the governor is reserving comment. Illinois' Supreme Court made a similar stun gun ruling Thursday, deciding in favor of two men charged with carrying the weapons. In New Jersey, a resident and the New Jersey Second Amendment Society sued the state in 2016 after Taser International declined his order for a Taser Pulse model because the state bans the sale of such merchandise. The following year the state's attorney general conceded the state's ban on electronic arms is unconstitutional. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. A Massachusetts court struck down that state's stun gun ban last year, also ruling that banning civilian possession of the weapons violates the U.S. Constitution's right to bear arms. "After that, the domino fell in the right way, and the rest of these cases became much more likely" to end with state bans overturned, said Alan Beck, of San Diego, one of two attorneys who filed Avitabile's lawsuit. The other, Stephen Stamboulieh, of Madison, Mississippi, said in all the cases the judges ruled that stun guns are "bearable arms" and therefore covered under protections guaranteed by the Second Amendment. "A right's a right," he said. "If it's a Taser, a billy club, a handgun, it's all protected by the Second Amendment." Stamboulieh said he and Beck have also filed lawsuits aiming to overturn stun gun bans in Hawaii and Rhode Island. Now what? Special counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his Trump-Russia investigation and on Friday delivered his final report to Attorney General William Barr. But what the report looks like isn't clear. Justice Department regulations required only that Mueller give the attorney general a confidential report that explains the decisions to pursue or decline prosecutions. It could have been as simple as a bullet point list, but the Justice Department has described it as "comprehensive." Whatever is in the report, we may not get all the juicy details that were uncovered over the past 22 months at least not right away. But this story is far from over. Here's what to expect next: What will the attorney general do? Barr has to decide what should be released to Congress and the public. In a letter to lawmakers Friday, Barr suggested this could come in stages. He said he could release Mueller's principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. He also said that he would consult with Mueller and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein to see what other information could be released "consistent with the law." He said he remains "committed to as much transparency as possible." But Barr has previously said he takes seriously the "shall be confidential" part of the regulations governing Mueller's report. He has noted that department protocol says internal memos explaining charging decisions should not be released. Will Trump be able to see the report? It is unclear whether Trump will ask to see the full report and under what circumstances he or his attorneys might be able to view it, especially because the document is meant to be confidential for Justice Department leadership. Mueller reports to the Justice Department, not the White House. Barr said at his confirmation hearing that he would not permit White House interference in the investigation. But he also has voiced an expansive view of executive power in which the president functions as the country's chief law enforcement officer and has wide latitude in giving directives to the FBI and Justice Department. Democrats could seize on any disclosure to the president to argue that the report really isn't confidential and should be immediately provided to them as well. What will Democrats do? Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Democrats are demanding access to the full Mueller report and the underlying evidence in the investigation and are threatening to issue subpoenas if they don't get them. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said on CNN that Congress needs to know "and so does the country." But Trump, as the leader of the executive branch, could direct the Justice Department to defy the subpoena, setting the stage for a court fight that could go to the Supreme Court. What won't happen now? More indictments. A Justice Department official says Mueller is not recommending any further indictments in the Russia investigation. ALBANY Environmental advocates joined U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko at the state Capitol on Friday to call on President Donald J. Trump to reconsider proposed cuts to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's budget. The event coincided with World Water Day and included advocates from Hoosick Falls and Newburgh, where public water systems have been afflicted with pollution from manufacturing contaminants. Trump's spending plan proposes cutting EPA funding by more than 30 percent, from $8.9 billion to $6.1 billion, according to Tonko, D-Amsterdam. "What's the result with this budget? The president has decided to roll back those funds, so that the progress we made with Republicans and Democrats, senators and members of the House working together ... was disrespected," Tonko said. He added that efforts to regulate and clean up water systems like those in Newburgh and Hoosick Falls, which are polluted with man-made perfluorinated compounds, also may suffer with EPA budget cuts. Tonko chairs the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change. The president's proposal, the advocates said, also would cut funding to the clean-water revolving loan program, a Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, a Long Island Sound environmental program, and the hazardous substance superfund program. A spokesman for the White House declined to comment. The environmental advocates said the revival of the coal-burning industry is also threatening the Adirondacks and the overall health of New York's residents and environment. Tonko characterized the EPA spending plan as "reckless." "It's time for us to move forward and address climate change," he said. "We need real leadership at EPA (and) ... in the White House to make certain we do just that." Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Ophra Wolf, a member of the Newburgh Clean Water Project said the group's efforts to clean up that area's water supply began about 18 months ago "when we realized that no one was coming to save us." "Newburgh has serious environmental issues," Wolf said. "We have some of the highest toxicity in the ground and in the water, according to a recent swath done by New York state. ... We need help. We need any agency that's going to protect us. ... People's lives are at risk." William C. Janeway, executive director of the Adirondack Council, said the proposed cuts would "cripple the EPAs ability to protect the Adirondacks from acid rain and smog coming from outside of New York state. Since the vast majority of our acid rain comes from Midwest smokestacks, the Adirondacks would be left vulnerable." Judith Enck, a former EPA regional administrator and now a visiting professor at Vermont's Bennington College, said the "weakening" of the EPA will have fallout for potentially decades. President Trumps continuing attempts to gut the EPA mean more air pollution and dirtier drinking water that will affect the health of millions of Americans," said Enck, who did not attend Friday's event at the Capitol. "Refusing to let EPA take action to reduce pollutants that cause climate change is the single biggest mistake in the 50-year history of the agency." Washington Special counsel Robert Mueller on Friday delivered a report on his inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 election to Attorney General William Barr, the Justice Department said, bringing to a close an investigation that has consumed the nation and cast a shadow over President Donald Trump for nearly two years. Barr told congressional leaders in a letter that he may brief them on the special counsel's "principal conclusions" as early as this weekend, a surprisingly fast turnaround for a report anticipated for months. The attorney general said he "remained committed to as much transparency as possible." In an apparent endorsement of an investigation that Trump has relentlessly attacked as a "witch hunt," Barr said Justice Department officials never had to intervene to keep him from taking an inappropriate or unwarranted step. The department's regulations would have required Barr to inform the leaders of the House and Senate Judiciary committees about any such interventions in his letter. A senior Justice Department official said Mueller would not recommend new indictments, a statement aimed at ending speculation that Trump or other key figures might be charged down the line. With department officials stressing that Mueller's inquiry was over and his office closing, the question for both Trump's critics and defenders was whether the prosecutors condemned the president's behavior in their report, exonerated him or neither. The president's lawyers were already girding for a possible fight over whether they could assert executive privilege to keep parts of the report secret. Since Mueller's appointment in May 2017, his team has focused on how Russian operatives sought to sway the outcome of the 2016 presidential race and whether anyone tied to the Trump campaign, wittingly or unwittingly, cooperated with them. While the inquiry, started months earlier by the FBI, unearthed a far-ranging Russian influence operation, no public evidence emerged that the president or his aides illegally assisted it. Nonetheless, the damage to Trump and those in his circle has been extensive. A half-dozen former Trump aides were indicted or convicted of crimes, mostly for lying to federal investigators or Congress. Others remain under investigation in cases that Mueller's office handed off to federal prosecutors in New York and elsewhere. Dozens of Russian intelligence officers or citizens, along with three Russian companies, were charged in cases that are likely to languish in court because the defendants cannot be extradited to the United States. Republicans immediately seized upon the news that no more indictments are expected as a vindication of Trump and his campaign. Those reports "confirm what we've known all along: There was never any collusion with Russia," Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana, the second-highest-ranking House Republican, said in a statement. Democrats, including some of those hoping to supplant Trump in the White House in the 2020 election, insisted that Mueller's full report be made public, including the underlying evidence. In a joint statement, Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California and Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, the top Senate Democrat, warned Barr not to allow the White House a "sneak preview" of the document. "The White House must not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts of those findings or evidence are made public," they said. Not since Watergate has a special prosecutor's inquiry so mesmerized the American public. Polls have shown that most Americans want to know its findings, and the House unanimously passed a nonbinding resolution to publicize the report. Barr's letter said he would decide what to release after consulting with Mueller and Rod Rosenstein, the deputy attorney general who has overseen his investigation. Justice Department officials emphasized that the White House had been kept at a distance. Only a handful of law enforcement officials have seen the report, said Kerri Kupec, a department spokeswoman. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Although a White House lawyer was notified that Mueller had delivered it to Barr, no White House official has seen the report or been briefed on it, according to Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the White House press secretary. "The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course," she said. Even though Mueller's report is complete, some aspects of his inquiry remain active and may be overseen by the same prosecutors once they are reassigned to their old jobs in the Justice Department. For instance, recently filed court documents suggest that investigators are still examining why former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort turned over campaign polling data in 2016 to a Russian associate who prosecutors said was tied to Russian intelligence. Mueller looked extensively at whether Trump obstructed justice to protect himself or his associates. But despite months of negotiations, prosecutors were unable to personally interview the president. Trump's lawyers insisted that he respond only to written questions from the special counsel. Even though under Justice Department policy, a sitting president cannot be indicted, Trump's lawyers worried that his responses in an oral interview could bring political repercussions, including impeachment, or put him in legal jeopardy once he is out of office. In court, the evidence amassed by the Mueller team has held up. Every defendant who is not still awaiting trial either pleaded guilty or was convicted by a jury. Although no American has been charged with illegally plotting with the Russians to tilt the election, Mueller uncovered a web of lies by former Trump aides. Five of them were found to have deceived federal investigators or Congress about their interactions with Russians during the campaign or the transition. They include Manafort; Michael Flynn, the president's first national security adviser; and Michael Cohen, Trump's former lawyer and longtime fixer. A sixth former adviser, Roger Stone, is to stand trial in November on charges of lying to Congress. Those who know Mueller, a former FBI director, had predicted a concise, legalistic report devoid of opinions nothing like the 445-page treatise that Ken Starr, who investigated President Bill Clinton, produced in 1998. Operating under a now-defunct statute that governed independent counsels, Starr had far more leeway than Mueller to set his own investigative boundaries and to render judgments. The regulations that governed Mueller, who was under the supervision of the Justice Department, only required him to explain his decisions to either seek or decline to seek criminal charges in a confidential report to the attorney general. The attorney general is then required to notify the leadership of the House and Senate judiciary committees. Despite pledging transparency, Barr may be reluctant to release the part of Mueller's report that may be of most interest: who the special counsel declined to prosecute and why, especially if Trump is on that list. Look, everybody enjoys a little good-natured political satire. Unless, of course, you're the president of the United States, who has gone from hosting "Saturday Night Live" twice most recently in 2015 to suggesting that federal elections and communications agencies should look into whether the venerable comedy show and other late-night yuckfests should be investigated for hitting conservatives too hard. This statement (on Twitter, of course) stood somewhat in contrast to Trump's executive order a few days later predicating the flow of federal educational grants to colleges and universities on their willingness to follow free-speech policies that some worry are chilling the rights of notorious goofs like Milo Yiannopoulos, whose campus appearances now fading in number as his career as a provocateur recedes prompted backlash from opponents of racist bile. But if, to paraphrase Walt Whitman, the president contradicts himself, it is because he contains multitudes all of them devoted to his political and legal survival. But sometimes topical satire can go too far, as we can see in the recent "lawsuit" that was actually filed in Virginia in which someone claiming to be U.S. Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Calif., is seeking $250 million from Twitter, a Virginia-based political consultant named Liz Mair, and two Twitter accounts, @DevinNunesMom and @DevinCow, which purports to be the musing of Devin Nunes' cow. In reality, it is not. I'll admit that whoever pulled the lawsuit together really went whole-hog to dress the thing up in full legalese with footnotes that are often delightful ("The word develop derives from the Old French desveloper, which means, in essence, to unwrap"). These jokesters have apparently even gone to the lengths of hiring an extremely realistic Nunes impersonator and managed to get him booked on several of the more credulous basic-cable news channels to defend "his" legal action. Or at least that's what I thought, until a friend sat me down and over the course of several hours proved to me that the whole thing was not a joke, but an actual lawsuit in which a real live sitting congressman from a developed state electricity, indoor plumbing, the whole deal decided to sue Twitter, a Republican flack who has worked for some of the least successful GOP presidential candidates in modern memory (Rick Perry, Scott Walker) and two fake accounts. If there's a digital-legal version of self-abuse, Nunes is doing it in the public square. While @DevinNunesMom has been defunct since last year, the suit has put @DevinCow into a realm of popularity occupied by only the luckiest bovine aliases: As of Friday, it had more than 618,000 followers (including your humble correspondent); Nunes' official account had less than 400,000. Cue sad trombone. But for me, there will never be a Twitter parody account to compare with Fake Sheldon Silver (@ShellySilver), which was launched in 2010 as the social media platform was exploding in popularity. Sprinkled with just enough Yiddish, the account was hard-boiled yet wry (Gov. Cuomo is referred to throughout as "Mario's kid"), a combo that seemed perfect for the tortoise-like but formidable Assembly Democratic speaker. In 2015 not long after Silver's arrest on corruption charges the New Yorker's Ben McGrath revealed the real fake Shelly was Aaron Naparstek, an advocate and blogger with expertise in transportation and land-use issues. (McGrath is the nephew of the Times Union's legendary editorial writer Jim McGrath, who died in 2013.) Over the phone on Friday, Naparstek recalled how Silver's flunkies tried to get Twitter to shut down the account permanently, to no avail the platform's rules of service allow for parody accounts that are clearly not attempts to steal the identity of public figures. Naparstek said a friend from Ecuador told him, "Oh man, you gotta be careful these people don't fool around, they're going to take you down." Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. He could see the matter from his friend's point of view: "From a Central American perspective, (Silver) was a strongman," Naparstek said. In today's political landscape, "It feels like we're going down that banana republic path." For years, the rumor around the Capitol was that the account was run by Jimmy Vielkind, then a Times Union reporter and my officemate. Naparstek reached out to Vielkind at one point and, in order to prove his Fake Shelly bona fides, asked the reporter to think of something not-Shelly might say on the news of the day. When that line appeared as a Fake Shelly post, Vielkind knew he was dealing with the real imposter. (That was Vielkind's only contribution, albeit inadvertent: In 2017, a weary Naparstek asked Vielkind if he wanted to take over as Fake Shelly, but "he refused he's too good a journalist.") While it was good fun, Naparstek admits to looking back on his career as Fake Shelly with some concern. "Given where we've gone into the realm of Ukrainian trolls deciding our elections, I'm a bit more conflicted about the legacy of Fake Sheldon Silver," he said. "...It's a Pandora's Box." Not long after we spoke, Naparstek emailed me to say he had checked out a few of the Devin Nunes parody accounts. "Very crude," he wrote. "Needs more Yiddish." cseiler@timesunion.com 518-454-5619 Washington Donald Trump has given success a bad name. That is, the president's much-boasted-about wealth has soured many Americans' taste for even the Horatio Alger bootstrapping stories. These days, as income inequality has become a leitmotif of Democratic politics, being rich is a liability. So, who's too rich for democracy these days? Billionaires, obviously. Millionaires are such dimes-a-dozen, they hardly count anymore. Even Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., who has proposed increasing marginal tax rates on the very rich to as high as 70 percent, set the baseline at $10 million. Decamillionaires, beware. This caveat might even extend to former Vice President Joe Biden, whose 2017 purchase of a $2.7 million beach house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is inspiring fresh speculation about his middle-class bona fides. "Middle-Class Joe rakes in millions," read a recent Politico headline. Of course, calling Biden's everyday-Joe-ness into question is ridiculous. He has forever been the workingman's champion. But, apparently, you can't have grown up in a middle-class family only to distinguish yourself as an adult and monetize your success. Isn't that the point of being an American, (she jested)? The fact that Biden now earns $100,000 per speech and landed a handsome, multimillion-dollar book deal hardly negates his lifetime in the Senate advocating for minorities, women and working-class Americans. Besides he's from Scranton! Yes, he is. As Biden accidentally said recently, he has "the most progressive record of anybody running," except that he isn't running yet. Ol' Joe and his tongue have been wrangling for decades, which is why we love him. He's the guy who can't tell a lie or keep his own secrets. Another wealthy possible candidate, former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, recently has been the focus of skepticism and not just because he proposes running as a centrist independent. Schultz, on book tour the past couple of months, has spoken of his childhood growing up in a Brooklyn housing project and his family's dire circumstances. In his book "From the Ground Up," he describes a noisy, smoke-and-alcohol-infused household often filled with poker players who kept him up late and his family afloat during destitute times. The Washington Post tracked down other contemporaries of Schultz's who grew up in the same housing project to report that it was actually a very nice, state-of-the-art complex. This may be so, but Schultz's experience can't be disproved or discredited. When your parents can't make the $96 monthly rent, you're not living in paradise. By the strange political calculus of the income equalizers, Schultz was first too rich and then not poor enough. It would seem that there's no satisfying the left until everyone is equally miserable. Even Beto O'Rourke ran into a bit of trouble when he-of-the-barrio (but not really) was revealed to be a prep-school alumnus with a near-billionaire father-in-law. Uh-oh. Can an upper-middle-class guy relate to the poor and lower-class Americans? Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Of course, he can. As can Schultz and Biden, and other wealthy people, many of whom share their good fortune through philanthropy, without which millions of the world's most impoverished would suffer or die. One problem with this wealth-as-liability perspective is that we risk losing the considerable contributions of the uber-successful. What would this crowd say today to Democrats John Kennedy or Franklin Roosevelt, both of whom enjoyed inherited wealth? You don't have to be poor to want to improve opportunities for the less fortunate. Nor do you always need a government program to create those opportunities. As head of Starbucks, Schultz accomplished through free enterprise what some Democrats want to do through government for "free." He made sure workers, including part-time staffers, had health insurance; he paid college tuition for those who wanted to go; and he made it possible for every employee to be a shareholder in the company. Once upon a time, Americans celebrated others' success and aspired through grit and sacrifice to improve their own circumstances. No more, apparently. The way some Democrats have reacted to candidates running-for-office-while-being-rich merely illustrates the poverty of their ideas. The anti-wealth sentiment currently in vogue isn't, of course, a rational response to challenges. It's an emotional reaction to politicians' barnstorming about inequality that, they say, can only be resolved by punishing the wealthy and subsidizing the rest. If you hear enough times that you deserve to have more, you begin to believe it. Inevitably, this means that others must have less. Thusly, my friends, is socialism born. kathleenparker@washpost. com. An additional 600 calves could be delivered within days to a new lairage at Cherbourg with some co-operation from the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed and the French authorities, according to IFA president Joe Healy. He was speaking following a visit to the Pignet lairage at the Normandy port. Mr Healy said that Minister Creed must request the French authorities to approve an extension which would to add this extra capacity in Cherbourg. With the additional 400 places announced late last week, it could increase capacity by 3,000 per week over three sailings, to 15,000 calves per week, he said. Minister Creed must also allow the use, permitted in previous years, of the facility at Abbeville which can act as an overflow lairage in light of the backlog caused by the exceptional bad sailing weather. Mr Healy said that this could accommodate 5,000 calves. The Minister told everyone that the ferry companies would sail in alternate days, but he was wrong and now we have a capacity problem in Cherbourg, he said Over 400 places came on stream in Cherbourg late last week, and IFA said that another lairage could potentially create another 600 places if approved by the French authorities. Minister Creed must engage with the French authorities to make this happen. Mary Lowry's computer was used to search for Bobby Ryan's name the day before his body was recovered from a tank on her land in County Tipperary, the Central Criminal Court has heard. Ms Lowry gave her computer to gardai investigating Bobby Ryan's death and Detective Garda Paul Fitzpatrick of the Garda Cyber Crime Bureau received it in May 2015. He told Patrick Quirke's defence counsel Bernard Condon SC that when he searched Ms Lowry's computer for key words, he found a search for "trace Ireland Bobby Ryan" carried out at 21.45 on April 29, 2013. Mr Ryan's body was discovered the following day by the accused man. Mr Quirke (50) of Breanshamore, Co Tipperary, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of part-time DJ Bobby Ryan. Mr Ryan went missing on June 3, 2011, after leaving his girlfriend Mary Lowry's home at about 6.30am. His body was found in an underground run-off tank on the farm owned by Ms Lowry and leased by the accused at Fawnagown, Tipperary, 22 months later in April 2013. The prosecution claims Mr Quirke murdered Mr Ryan so he could rekindle an affair with Ms Lowry (52). Mr Condon also asked the witness about a forensic analysis carried out on a computer seized during a search of Mr Quirke's home following the discovery of the body. On Thursday, the jury heard that the computer was used in December 2012 to search for "human body decomposition timeline" and "rate of human decomposition". The witness agreed with Mr Condon that this computer did not have a password and he could not say who was using it at any given time. He further agreed that Google suggests search words when a person starts typing in the search bar and he couldn't say which search terms were input by the user. The trial continues this afternoon in front of Justice Eileen Creedon and a jury of six men and six women. [March 22, 2019] dynaCERT and H2 Tek Nab Top Prize at the 2019 Mining Cleantech Challenge TORONTO, March 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- dynaCERT Inc. (TSX VENTURE: DYA) (OTCQB: DYFSF) (FRA: DMJ) ("dynaCERT" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has won first prize along with its dealer, H2 Tek at the 2019 Mining Cleantech Challenge in Colorado. First place winner dynaCERT Inc./H2 Tek took home the $5,000 prize at the March 21, 2019, Mining Cleantech Challenge in Denver. Their technology was chosen by mining executives and investors in the industry as the best among a competitive field of 12 total companies representing the U.S., Canada and Israel. An international team of judges reviewed and voted on the winners. dynaCERTs HydraGEN Technology turns distilled water into H2 and O2 gases on-demand and introduces these gases directly to diesel engines air intakes. Our technology, HydraGEN, said H2 Tek Vice President of Sales and Marketing, David Van Klaveren, can actually improve significantly those carbon emissions, reduce them, and along the way pay for the capital cost of all this through fuel efficiency savings. We cant ignore the fact that clean technology is an important part of our responsibility as participants and members of this industry, the mining industry, continued Van Klaveren. I think its remarkable that an association considers this a priority: bringing together companies that have innovation for an extremely important cause. Exequiel Rolon from sponsor company Fresnillo, one of the founding sponsors, agreed, saying, Its my third year and its been very surprising to see all the startup companies that come up with very innovative ideas that are actually very beneficial for the mining companies. I think the mining industry as a whole can benefit from these efforts, said Rolon. One of our commitments is to foster and collaborate with entrepreneurs that are developing these kinds of technologies. While the global mining industry navigates an evolving market, certain producers are integrating innovative technology and alternative, less polluting energy sources into mining operations. Incorporating clean energy practices into the industry is a challenge that we see our sponsoring companies tackling head-on, said Shelly Curtiss, Executive Director of Colorado Cleantech Industries Association, which hosts the Mining Cleantech Challenge. Rolon concluded, Somehow this event is unique in the world and provides value that is very complicated to find. Supporters of the day-long program included Newmont Mining, Fresnillo, as well as Jolimont Global, Ausenco, Resource Capital Funds, Consulate General of Canada in Denver, Colorado School of Mines, Rocky Mountain Institute and the Mountain Studies Institute. im Payne, President & CEO of dynaCERT, commented, I congratulate H2 Tek for their commitment and efforts for introducing dynaCERT to the mining industry. This award again demonstrates the positive reception that we are receiving from all over the world and we welcome this one as it relates to another very important industry. On behalf of dynaCERT and H2 Tek, I thank the Mining Cleantech Challenge organizers and participants for honouring us in this most important endeavor to finding a Solution for Pollution. About dynaCERT Inc. dynaCERT Inc. manufactures, distributes, and installs Carbon Emission Reduction Technology for use with internal combustion engines. As part of the growing global hydrogen economy, our patent-pending technology creates hydrogen and oxygen on-demand through electrolysis and supplies these through the air intake to enhance combustion, resulting in lower carbon emissions and greater fuel efficiency. Our technology is designed for use with all types and sizes of diesel engines used in on-road vehicles, reefer trailers, off-road construction, power generation, mining and forestry equipment, marine vessels and railroad locomotives. Website: www. dynaCERT .com READER ADVISORY Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to the potential expansion into new markets, industries and segments, such as diesel- powered use of any the dynaCERT products and sales. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance of achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward- looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: uncertainty as to whether our strategies and business plans will yield the expected benefits; availability and cost of capital; the ability to identify and develop and achieve commercial success for new products and technologies; the level of expenditures necessary to maintain and improve the quality of products and services; changes in technology and changes in laws and regulations; the uncertainty of the emerging hydrogen economy; including the hydrogen economy moving at a pace not anticipated; our ability to secure and maintain strategic relationships and distribution agreements; and the other risk factors disclosed under our profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com . Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. 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 the release. On Behalf of the Board Murray James Payne, CEO For more information, please contact: Jim Payne, CEO & President dynaCERT Inc. #101 501 Alliance Avenue Toronto, Ontario M6N 2J1 (416) 766-9691 x 2 [email protected]dynaCERT.com Investor Relations dynaCERT Inc. Nancy Massicotte (416) 766-9691 x 1 [email protected] dynaCERT .com [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [March 22, 2019] Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP Announces Investigation on Behalf of Avon Products, Inc. Investors (AVP) Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP ("GPM") announces an investigation on behalf of Avon Products, Inc. ("Avon" or the "Company") (NYSE: AVP) investors concerning the Company and its officers' possible violations of federal securities laws. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. If you wish to learn more about this action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Lesley Portnoy, Esquire, at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or by email to [email protected], or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com. On August 3, 2017, Avon issued a press release announcing its second quarter 2017 financial results and held a conference call to discuss the results. The Company reported a net loss of $0.12 per share and a 3% decline in active representatives. Avon also reported that Brazil revenue was "down 2% in constant dollars, primarily driven by a decrease in Active Representatives." On the call, Avon's Chief Financial Officer acknowledged that, despite Avon's earlier representations, the remedial actions in Brazil (i.e., stricter credit terms applied to recruiting new representatives) were negatively impacting active representatives and revenue in Brazil. On this news, shares of Avon fell $0.36, or 10.71%, to close at $3.00 per share on August 3, 2017, thereby injuring investors. If you purchased Avon 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 Lesley Portnoy, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, CA (News - Alert) 90067 at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190322005467/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [March 22, 2019] Global CSR Foundation Promotes Woman's Empowerment at the CSW By Ben Percifield The 63rd session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) was held at the UN Headquarters in New York from March 11 - 22, 2019. Representatives of Members States, UN entities and NGOs from all regions of the world attended the session. The CSW is the United Nations' largest gathering on gender equality and women's rights and is the largest commission for UN Member States (193), civil society organizations, and other international actors to build consensus and commitment on policy actions derived from the UN Beijing Platform for Action (1995) and its 12 Critical Areas of Concern. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190322005495/en/ Delegates at the Opening Session of the CSW Conference (Photo: Business Wire) The CSW focused on social protection systems, access topublic services, sustainable infrastructure for gender equality, and the empowerment of women and girls. The session also reviewed women's empowerment and its link to sustainable development, which was initiated in a previous session. Young Global Leadership Foundation, (YGLF), with granted UN NGO ECOSOC special consultative status, invited 15 delegates, female entrepreneurs from all across China, to participate in the 63rd session of the United Nations CSW. They participated and learned from global leaders during the UN sessions, side events, and parallel events. Global CSR (News - Alert) Foundation (GCSRF) was instrumental in organizing the YGLF Chinese delegates and enhancing their stay in New York City. GCSRF and YGLF have a strong global strategic alliance. The delegation discussed the important roles and responsibilities of women in social development, family life, and children's education, as well as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the Young Global Leadership Foundation's CSW parallel event, speakers shared their expertise and eclectic life experiences to define SDG #4: Quality Education in the 21st century, with a focus on social responsibilities and protection systems. Dr. Linda J Stillman, a member NGO CSW Committee and NGO Education Committee Learning and Literacy, is the founder/chair of YGLF with 25 years of experience at the UN. She said that these professional women from China were "making a positive presence at the CSW. Although this was their first time attending the commission, she hoped it wouldn't be the last, enthusiastic about "more exchanges in the future." Jing Zhao Cesarone, founder of the Global CSR Foundation, presented on building quality education for sustainable development with CSR programs. "The Global CSR Foundation's strength is to talk to the corporations on the educator's behalf," she said, and that "the best branding is to be socially responsible." In addition to UN CSW events all week, the group also attended a women's leadership training program at Columbia University and an impact investment talk at Morgan Stanley among other activities in New York City. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190322005495/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [March 22, 2019] NISOURCE INVESTIGATION INITIATED by Former Louisiana Attorney General: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Investigates the Officers and Directors of NiSource Inc. - NI 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190322005473/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [March 22, 2019] ARLO 72 HOUR DEADLINE ALERT: Approximately 72 Hours Remain; Former Louisiana Attorney General and Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Remind Investors with Losses in Excess of $100,000 of Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against Arlo Technologies, Inc. Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, the former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors with large financial interests that they have only until March 25, 2019 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Arlo Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: ARLO). Investor losses must relate to purchases of the Company's shares issued in connection with its August 3, 2018 initial public offering ("IPO"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. What You May Do If you purchased shares of Arlo 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 (l[email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-arlo/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action by overseeing lead counsel with the goal of obtaining a fair and just resolution, you must request this position by application to the Court by March 25, 2019. About the Lawsuit On December 3, 2018, the Company disclosed that shipments of Arlo Ultra, its recently-announced flagship security camera system, were delayed due to "a quality issue with the battery from one of its suppliers" discovered during the final testing phase, and that as a result it lowered its Q4 2018 financial guidance. On this news, the price of Arlo's shares plummeted. The case is Wong v. Arlo Technologies, Inc. et al, 19-cv-00372. 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/20190322005483/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Zoom security issues: Everything that's gone wrong (so far) Dozens of security and privacy issues have been found in Zoom, though not all are serious and many have been fixed. Here's what you need to know. Samsung's lineup of Galaxy S10 phones delivers a powerful new processor, improved cameras and in the case of the S10 and S10 Plus an in-display fingerprint sensor to what has been the leading flagship Android phone of recent years. Despite all these improvements, though, Samsung's new phone still has more than its share of challengers, including one that's elbowed its way past other more-established phone makers. Samsung Galaxy S10 (left) and OnePlus 6T (right) Are the extra savings worth it with the OnePlus 6T? Or are you better off going with Samsung's latest and greatest phones? To find out, we compared the Galaxy S10 to the OnePlus 6T to see which Android phone comes out on top. Galaxy S10 vs. OnePlus 6T: Specs Compared Galaxy S10e Galaxy S10 Galaxy S10 Plus OnePlus 6T Starting Price $749 $899 $999 $549 Screen Size (Resolution) 5.8 inches (2160 x 1080) 6.1 inches (3040 x 1440) 6.4 inches (3040 x 1440) 6.4 inches (2340 x 1080) CPU Snapdragon 855 Snapdragon 855 Snapdragon 855 Snapdragon 845 RAM 6GB, 8GB 8GB 8GB, 12GB 6GB, 8GB Storage 128GB, 256GB 128GB, 512GB 128GB, 512GB, 1TB 128GB, 256GB microSD? Yes (up to 512GB) Yes (up to 512GB) Yes (up to 512GB) No Rear Camera 16-MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 12-MP dual-pixel wide (f/1.5, f/2.4) 16-MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 12-MP dual-pixel wide (f/1.5, f/2.4), 12-MP telephoto (f/2.4) 16-MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 12-MP dual-pixel wide (f/1.5, f/2.4), 12-MP telephoto (f/2.4) 16-MP (f/1.7), 20-MP (f/1.7) Front Camera 10-MP (f/1.9) 10-MP (f/1.9) 10-MP (f/1.9), 8-MP (f/2.2) 16-MP (f/2.0) Battery 3,100 mAh 3,400 mAh 4,100 mAh 3,700 mAh Battery Life (Hrs:Mins) 9:41 10:19 12:35 10:23 Fingerprint Sensor On power button In-display ultrasonic In-display ultrasonic In-display optical Size 5.6 x 2.75 0.3 inches 5.9 x 2.77 x 0.3 inches 6.2 x 2.91 x 0.3 inches 6.2 x 2.94 x 0.3 inches Weight 5.3 ounces 5.5 ounces 6.17 ounces 6.52 ounces Colors Flamingo Pink, Prism Black, Prism White, Prism Blue, Prism Green, Canary Yellow Flamingo Pink, Prism Black, Prism White, Prism Blue, Prism Green Flamingo Pink, Prism Black, Prism White, Prism Blue, Prism Green, Ceramic White, Ceramic Black Mirror Black, Midnight Black Design There's no doubt that Samsung has set a new standard for "all-screen" smartphone design with the latest Galaxy S10. OnePlus took the iPhone-inspired screen notch and shrank it down to a slick teardrop shape (good enough for an 86.6-percent screen-to-body ratio). But the Galaxy S10 uses Samsung's Infinity O display, highlighted by small in-screen cutouts for its selfie cams to allow for a true edge-to-edge display. The result is a 93.1-percent screen-to-body ratio for the S10. Galaxy S10 You have three sizes to choose from with the Galaxy S10 the 5.8-inch S10e, the 6.1-inch S10 and the 6.4-inch S10 Plus. The latter model matches the screen size of the OnePlus 6T, though Samsung's supersized phone isn't as wide. It measures 6.2 x 2.91 x 0.3 inches, compared with the 6T's 6.2 x 2.94 x 0.3 inches. The 6T is marginally heavier as well 6.25 ounces versus 6.17 ounces for the S10 Plus. OnePlus 6T Both Samsung and OnePlus build fingerprint sensor into their screens, but there's more than one way of pulling off that trick. The OnePlus 6T uses a 2D optical sensor that performed well in our testing, especially when compared with other phones with optical sensors. OnePlus 6T Samsung's S10 lineup uses an ultrasonic sensor, though, that creates a 3D map of your finger so that it's more secure. We also had good luck using the S10's in-screen sensor when our fingers were wet. However, the S10's in-screen sensor can be finicky at times. (Note that the less expensive Galaxy S10e does not have an in-display sensor, but instead puts its fingerprint reader inside the phone's power button.) Galaxy S10e, Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S10 Plus You're likely to get more of a kick out of the glossy and brilliant rear finish of the S10 phones, while the 6T offers a muted matte texture. In the color options department, Samsung wins big, with a total of six choices between the S10 and S10 Plus: Flamingo Pink, Prism Black, Prism White, Prism Blue, Ceramic White, Ceramic Black. (The latter two options are only available on the S10 Plus.) OnePlus keeps it simple with just MIdnight Black and Mirror Black versions. OnePlus 6T For waterproofing, the Galaxy S10 phones' solid IP68 rating beats out OnePlus' light, non-IP-rated resistance. The 6T is OnePlus' first phone to ditch the headphone, which makes for a more seamless body casing. But if you're a fan of the vintage 3.5mm port, the one on Samsung's S10 handsets will give you what you need at little cost to design. Winner: Galaxy S10 Display The Dynamic AMOLED panels on Samsung's new Galaxy phones are the best-looking displays we've seen, while the OnePlus 6T's AMOLED screen comes across as less bright and less rich. Galaxy S10 Measuring the displays with a light meter, all three S10 models hit more than 600 nits. The OnePlus 6T topped out at 405 nits. The gap isn't that surprising since we noticed the 6T's screen is noticeably dimmer than a lot of other OLED panels when we reviewed that phone last year. OnePlus 6T It's a closer match regarding color reproduction, where the OnePlus 6T covers 222.6 percent of the sRGB color gamut, with those colors proving pretty true to life based on the 6T's Delta-E score of 0.36. (A score of 0 is perfect.) That's about equal to the 0.35 Delta-E rating for the Galaxy S10 Plus, which covered only 170.2 percent of sRGB spectrum. (By default, the S10 uses a Natural color setting for its display, though you can amp that up to Vivid if you like.) MORE: Best Android Phones Available Right Now At 2340 x 1080, the OnePlus 6T delivers a good resolution, but things are just sharper on the Galaxy S10. Both the S10 and S10 Plus feature a 3040 x 1440 that just looks better to the eye. Winner: Galaxy S10 Camera If there's one area where you'll make trade-offs for the lower price of a OnePlus phone, it's with the device's camera. The cameras on OnePlus' phones are fully featured and take decent shots, but they don't measure up to what you get from the leading flagships. Galaxy S10 That trend continues here. The OnePlus 6T features a dual-lens setup on the back a 16-megapixel main lens augmented by a 20-MP secondary shooter along with software enhancements designed to help with portrait shots and low-light settings. But the Galaxy S10 ups the ante, with both the S10 and S10 Plus offering three lenses: a 16-MP ultra-wide-angle lens, a 12-MP dual-pixel wide-angle shooter and a 12-MP telephoto lens. Samsung turns to software, too, with Live Focus effects that let you trick out your images, and AI-powered scene recognition to optimize camera settings. The OnePlus 6T holds its own in some circumstances. This shot of challah bread captures the glistening shine on the bread's crust and re-creates the warm colors very nicely. But the S10's shot is just a touch better, with sharper details around the bread's curves. The ultra-wide-angle lens on the phone also lets you see more of the nearby loaves. In the Grand Central Station, with its challenging lighting, the OnePlus 6T does OK at preventing the lighting from the back windows to wash out the scene. You can even see the designs on the ceiling and around the windows, though the S10's camera makes the brickwork on the pillars stand out a little more. Where the 6T falls down is with the passengers in the foreground some look very blurry, while the Galaxy S10 manages to keep everyone in focus. The S10 begins to pull away when the lights are low. You can make out the blue and yellow leaves in the OnePlus 6T's photo, but objects in the foreground aren't in focus. The entire scene also has a yellowish cast over it. The S10's rendition isn't perfect the details on the globe are lost in shadow and the whole scene looks muted. But the details pop out more clearly and the entire scene is in focus. Again, the S10 doesn't nail everything some of Caitlin's hair gets caught up in the background blur but the S10's cameras aren't overwhelmed by the background lighting in the way that the 6T is. Winner: Galaxy S10 Performance OnePlus' penchant for packing its phones full of RAM closes the performance gap somewhat with the S10 and its newer Snapdragon 855 chipset. But there's still a gap, and the new mobile processor from Qualcomm is the reason why. Qualcomm says the 855 benefits from the biggest jump in performance from every Snapdragon upgrade, and that's what we saw when we benchmarked all of the Galaxy S10 models. Galaxy S10 The Galaxy S10 Plus recorded a multi-core score of 10,732, and the other two S10 models weren't far off that pace. (The S10e's Geekbench score was 10,513, despite having only 6GB of RAM, compared with 8GB in the S10 Plus.) The OnePlus 6T, running last year's Snapdragon 845, scored 8,972, even with 8GB of RAM in our review unit. So the S10 improved upon the 6T's performance by 17 to 20 percent, depending on what model you want to compare it with. The gap in graphics testing wasn't as vast, but the Galaxy S10 still enjoyed an edge. Running 3DMark's Slingshot Extreme test, the results from the S10 (5,606) and the S10 Plus (5,648) both topped the OnePlus 6T's 5,183. And the 6T was among the better-performing Snapdragon 845-powered phones we tested in 2018. MORE: Best Smartphones - Here Are the 10 Best Phones Available Real-world tests also show off the Galaxy S10's superiority. We used Adobe Clips to transcode a 4K clip to 1080p, and the Galaxy S10 Plus took 2 minutes and 26 seconds to complete the task, even though Clips isn't optimized for that phone. (The forthcoming Adobe Premiere Rush is designed to work with Samsung's new phones.) That still beat the OnePlus 6T's time of 3:45. It will likely be a different story once OnePlus comes out with its own Snapdragon 855-powered phone most likely the OnePlus 7 later this year. But the S10 uses its newer chipset to race ahead over last year's top-performing flagship. Winner: Galaxy S10 Special Features and Security Samsung likes to add software features to try to keep up with Apple's iPhones, while OnePlus talks up the simplicity of the OS on its phones. Since Samsung's AR Emojis to (a remixed take on Apple's Animojis and Memojis) and its Bixby virtual assistant (made to compete with Siri) haven't been well received, having them on the new S10 phones is hardly an advantage. But, for Android 9.0 Pie loaded on the S10 phones Samsung has debuted its all-new OneUI interface to match OnePlus' tasteful OxygenOS take on the Google OS. Both phone brands now offer experiences closer to what you would find on the Google Pixel, but OnePlus has a better track record of offering Android updates sooner. The S10 family enjoys an edge over the OnePlus 6T all three models support wireless charging, while OnePlus' phone does not. Even better, a Wireless PowerShare feature for the new S10 phones lets you turn them into a wireless charging pad that can top off the batteries of other devices that use the Qi standard. One other feature the S10 phones have over the OnePlus that some pro user will find useful is support for Samsung's DeX, which essentially transforms the phones into desktop computers that can hook up to a keyboard, mouse and monitor. Of course, this kind of smartphone-ing hasn't really caught on in the mainstream yet, and grabbing the phone just for this niche option seems unlikely. We've already talked about the different fingerprint sensors on the S10 and 6T, where Samsung's approach is definitely more secure. But the phones each offer facial recognition as well, where you use front-facing cameras to scan your face. Don't expect Face ID-level security from either the S10 or the 6T you can't confirm mobile payments with your face the way you can on an iPhone. And both phones can be fooled into thinking a photograph is a face. Winner: Galaxy S10 Battery Life and Charging The OnePlus 6T's 3,700 mAh battery is bigger than the power pack inside the Galaxy S10 (3,400 mAh) and the Galaxy S10e (3,100 mAh). But the 4,100 mAh battery inside the Galaxy S10 Plus trumps them all, and that Samsung phone has the battery life to prove it. When we ran the Tom's Guide battery test on the S10 Plus continuous web surfing over T-Mobiles LTE network until the fully charged phone ran out of power Samsung's largest model held out for 12 hours and 35 minutes. That's more than 2 better than the 6T's 10:23 result, though the OnePlus phone did edge out the S10 (10:19). The S10e fared the worst on our battery test, finishing at 9:41. MORE: Smartphones With the Longest Battery Life You may need a cable to charge your OnePlus 6T, but at least the phone powers up quickly, thanks to the phone maker's Dash Charge feature. You can get the 6T's battery to 60 percent after 30 minutes of charging. The Galaxy S10's Quick Charge 2.0 feature isn't as fast. Winner: Galaxy S10 Value One thing OnePlus definitely gets right in its face-off with the new Galaxy models (and most any flagship phone you buy today) is price. As noted, the 6T starts at $549, a full $200 cheaper than the entry-level Galaxy S10e. But even upgrading your 6T won't break the bank. A model with 8GB of memory and 256GB costs $629; the comparable Galaxy S10e model costs $220 more. You'd have to spend $899 or $999 to get an S10 or S10 Plus, and if you upgrade either the RAM or the storage, you're looking at an even bigger price difference. (Both the S10 and S10 Plus offer more extensive memory and storage options, though.) Its easier to get a Galaxy S10 from the carrier you want. All four major carriers sell the S10, and Samsung's phone is also available through Xfinity Mobile and US Cellular. The OnePlus 6T is the first OnePlus device to be sold through a carrier T-Mobile offers the $579 8GB/128GB model. You can also buy the phone unlocked if you want to use it with either AT&T or Verizon. Winner: OnePlus 6T Bottom Line If youve taken interest in FromSoftwares recent endeavor Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and havent been properly groomed for death, Ive drummed up a few tips to give you the edge in surviving these dangerous times. Of course, there are a couple of things you must come to terms with before you set out to rescue your kidnapped lord. First and foremost is death there will be a lot of it. The second is patience; Sekiro arguably requires more patience than its spiritual predecessors due to the precision and faster pace of the combat. Here are some simple but important tips to survive and cheese your way through the Japanese 16th-century Sengoku era. Choose Your Battles Wisely By giving you a grappling hook, FromSoftware has opened up the world for a ton of vertical movement in and out of combat. So, if youre stuck on a section, chances are that you can run or grapple-hook your way past it. Of course, you shouldnt do this too often; otherwise you wont get the proper experience needed to purchase better skills. But its smart to revisit areas youve already beaten or are just not skilled enough to take on. However, there will be sections that you cant simply skip because youll either be facing a boss or mini-boss. In those scenarios (with the exception of Sekiros bosses), you can use the grappling hook to escape the battle if you feel things arent going your way. Guerrilla Warfare A major part of fighting bigger enemies or even just fighting new foes is resisting the urge to spam the attack button, especially if you havent gotten a feel for deflecting and dodging threats. Instead, you should use hit-and-run tactics go for the one-two slice and immediately run backwards. This method will take a lot longer to kill the enemy youre fighting since you wont break their posture and get an instant kill, but its much safer. Also, dont be afraid to abuse your infinite stamina. While youre running backwards, do a lap around your enemy and carefully watch how they react. Do they go for a thrust attack? Or maybe a simple three-slash attack? Keep track of when they stop attacking and take the opportunity to deal some damage. Its also important that you use Sekiros Prosthetic Tools to deal some extra hurt. For example, Loaded Shuriken are a great tool to slowly eat away at your enemys health, and the Loaded Axe is useful beyond breaking shields since it can tear down an enemys posture, which is incredibly helpful against mini-bosses. Farm Like Youre Playing Stardew Valley If youve tried everything to get past that one difficult area and youre at the end of your rope, the best and most simple advice I can give you is to farm. Find a group of enemies that youre comfortable fighting and beat them senseless over and over until you get enough experience to buy some useful skills. Some skills that I suggest purchasing right away for Sekiro are Whirlwind Slash (a strong spinning attack), Emma's Medicine: Potency (increases the effect of healing items) and Suppress Presence (increases your stealth). After that, Id recommend reading about each skill and deciding for yourself which ones would impact combat the most, based on your fighting style. MORE: After 6 Hours With Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, I'm Loving Every Brutal Minute Additionally, use that hard-earned farm money to buy more Spirit Emblems (or other items) that you can put into storage. Its a better use of your money than losing half of it if you're killed. Some merchants actually sell coin purses, which are item versions of money that you wont lose when you die. You Are A Shinobi Before combat even breaks out, abuse the hell out of Sekiros stealth executions. To transition into stealth, you simply crouch, and to execute an enemy, you sneak up behind them and press the attack button. You should execute enemies who are a modest distance away from other enemies, so that you dont alert their buddies. If thats not feasible, you should pull a disappearing act into the shrubs or behind cover immediately after your kill. If worse comes to worst and there is no cover, try to escape the enemys line of sight. Your opponents will only pursue you so far and you can even create a few stragglers to take out while the rest get back to their posts. When you're facing a mini-boss (someone with more than one bar of health), it's important that you start off the fight with an execution so you eliminate one bar of health. However, dont break their line of sight because theyll simply regain the health you've taken from them. Talk To Everyone This may be obvious, but be sure to talk to as many non-playable characters (NPCs) as you possibly can and listen to all of their dialogue until they repeat themselves. Even if the NPC is in an area youd rather just skip, it might be worth your while to seek them out. Some NPCs in Sekiro are pretty easy to spot, but others lie off the beaten path and require some exploration to discover. At some point, youll find an NPC that gives you a bell that you can use to travel to a different area, the Hinata Estate, which you can miss completely if you arent paying attention. MORE: PS4 Games: Our Staff Favorites Theres actually another NPC located along the river of the Hinata Estate that I had missed on my first run. This specific character will sell you useful items like a Withered Red Gourd, which reduces burn buildup and slightly increases burn resistance for a short period. There are a ton of useful resources that NPCs offer, so don't ignore them. Click On Everything A recurring problem in the Souls series is that it inundate players with a ton of quick items. That really hasn't changed with Sekiro, but I strongly advise you to read the description of the items you pick up. There are items like the Bundled Jizo Statue, which restores a node of resurrective power if you don't already have one; it can change the tide of battle entirely. There are also items like Ungo and Gokan's Sugar, which reduce damage (for a limited time) to your vitality and posture, respectively. On top of that, there are some basic combat items, like Ceramic Shards (draws an enemy's attention), Fistful of Ash (distracts enemies) and Oil (causes enemies to take additional damage if set ablaze), all of which can give you the leg up on an enemy. Almost everything is useful for your survival, so read everything! We hope that these tips help you soldier your way through some of Sekiros tough moments. Tell us about some of your personal tips that helped you become the best Shinobi in the land. Credit: FromSoftwar Intel SSD 660p. ( (Image credit: Intel)) Over the past several quarters, SSD prices have been in freefall, and they are expected to continue this trend for at least another few quarters, according to recent reports. Industry watchers reportedly believe that these aggressive price reductions in the SSD market will convince customers to buy higher-capacity or higher-performance SSDs, or both. Downward Pressure On 512GB/1TB SSDs This week, analyst DRAMeXchange released research saying device makers are putting higher downward pricing pressure on 512GB/1TB SSDs, as they try to increase the content-per-box. This should lead to a higher adoption of SSDs in notebooks, as most of them have been stuck with ~256GB SSDs over the past few years, DRAMeXchange believes. DRAMeXchange also said that when it comes to the enterprise SSD market, "demand for server/data centers is the only major demand on the rise in 2019. With a higher gross profit than other products, enterprise SSDs have become the Holy Grail companies vie for." "Suppliers have all set their sights on PCIe products, which have plenty of room for growth and even more opportunities for competition," the analyst said. "Contract prices shall continue to fall in the aftermath." NVMe SSDs to Represent Half of the SSD Market The sales of high-speed NVMe SSDs are expected to reach 50 percent of the total SSD market by the end of 2019, according to a recent DigiTimes report. Unnamed industry experts told the publication that SSDs' fast price decline will lead many consumers to switch to the much higher-performance NVMe SSDs in 2019. The price of NVMe SSDs fell 11 percent in Q1 2019, while the price of SATA SSDs fell by only 9 percent, DigiTimes said, citing its anonymous sources. The price difference per GB was 30 percent on average in 2018 but will continue to shrink throughout the year, it added. Notebook makers are also seen as one of the main customer segments for NVMe SSDs, but these high-performance flash drives are also expected to see adoption for cloud computing, 5G, as well as automotive applications. KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Police in Overland Park, Kansas say a bicyclist has died after being struck by a car Friday. Emergency crews were called out around 9:30 a.m. to near 135th Street and Caenen Street on reports that a car had struck a bicyclist. Daily Caller: Nina Agdal Is Apparently A Fan Of Dogs TKC TOLD YOU SO: The Kansas City Downtown Sammich Compromise KC sandwich shops settle 'turf war' over sidewalk ads KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) - A local restaurant that had only recently opened its doors found a marketing campaign spray painted by a competitor right outside its front door. After two years at 12th and Washington, Spokes Cafe and Cyclery opened a second location in downtown Kansas City. KC According To McTavish 6 Inspiring Spring Things To Do In Kansas City This Weekend Not to knock cold and miserable - everything has its fans - but the differential between soul-sucking winter and inspiring spring is ridiculous. From godforsaken "brr" to giddy "ahh," right? Fortunately, all it takes a warm gust of wind and a bit of hope to turn it all around, including this weekend's cache of fresh springtime events and activities designed to more than mitigate the "meh." NextGen Stands Up For Equality Season Of Local Home Repair Trouble KC woman targeted by bad home repair company gets second dose of kindness KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The good news keeps coming for a Kansas City woman who asked FOX4 Problem Solvers for help with a home repair business that emptied her bank account and left her house a mess. Two metro companies, who initially came to her rescue to fix the problems the other company had caused, are now back -- to do even more. Kansas City Celebrates EPIC Black Bull Rider (Non-Pr0n) Bull rider using fame, skill to drive diversity in sport KANSAS CITY, Mo. - This weekend, PBR fans will pack Sprint Center to see one of the top riders in the sport. who is hoping to make the sport more diverse. But Ezekiel Mitchell, 22, isn't just concerned about winning. He wants to help make the sport more diverse. Fanboys Predict Yet Another Kansas City Sausage Fest Coming Soon Report: the Chiefs will have another helping of Sausage in 2019 During our very first Arrowhead Pride live Q&A on Thursday, we were asked if we thought Kansas City Chiefs free agent fullback Anthony Sherman would be resigned by the team in 2019. Soggy Forecast For Flooded Weekend Rain showers off and on Saturday The Kansas City area will see scattered rain showers Saturday. The highs will be in the mid-50s. First, a consideration of bikini model hotness and the beautiful impact on the culture . . .Closer to home, these news links inspire us tonight . . .And this is the OPEN THREAD for tonight . . . Youve seen them: the folks who cant seem to wrap their heads around the concept of merging or who forget that theres a time for them to be on the left lane and that time isnt all the time. But you arent one of them, and were here to help you choose your next ride on the basis of how well it copes with highway driving. Here are the best highway cars money can buy in the U.S. Highway driving is a big part of your daily routine if you have a longer commute to and from work. There are some 146,000 miles-worth of highway in the U.S. and, with 143 million Americans commuting to and from work, 83% of whom use their personal cars (and most of them take aboard no passengers), millions of cars are utilizing the highway system on a daily basis. Approximately 3.3 million people have a commute thats longer than 50 miles, and about 7% of the working population must tackle a +100-mile commute to get to their jobs. All these people need a car they can depend on during their daily journies, a car thats good on fuel, has enough torque and power to merge adequately, isnt going to leave you with a bent spine when you finally get out of it and isnt too expensive to maintain. When you pick a car, you must also consider if its a great highway cruiser or if it doesnt like highways at all The Audi A6 is representative of the German mid-size luxury sedan. I couldve gone for either the BMW 5 Series or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class but, frankly, I like the A6 the best simply because, in my view, it has the best interior of the three. Not only do you get three digital screens on the dash of the revised 2019 model, but also the quality of the materials all throughout the cabin on top of the fit and finish is superior to what you get in a Merc. And all of this matters since youre going to spend a lot of time driving the A6 down the highway. Then there's the fact that the A6 is packed to the brim with clever tech: you get the car-to-X services, such as traffic sign recognition or hazard information plus lane-keep assist and efficiency assist to keep your mileage in check. Couple that with a punchy 3.0-liter, turbocharged V-6 capable of 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque (with 29 mpg highway) and you end up with a contender for the title of best car for highway driving; all for about $59,000 (a $9,000 increase over the old model). As such, its not as cheap as the next highway cruiser on this list but it doesnt aim to be. 2019 Audi A6 Specifications Engine 3.0-liter, turbocharged V-6 Horsepower 340 horsepower Torque 369 pound-feet Drive AWD 0-60 mph 5.1 seconds Top Speed 155 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Audi A6 My aim with this list is to cover all the bases. You wont only find luxury sedans, nor will you only find a plethora of crossovers or minivans. As such, the Camry deserves a spot for being among the really good highway cars out there that wont break the bank. The Camry is the perfect example. It remains a best-seller in the mid-size sedan class and once you get inside you'll see why: a well-built and intuitive interior welcomes you, one that finally looks modern too. The Human Machine Interface with its 10-inch HUD is standard and, on the technical side of things, the base SE trim level packs a 203 horsepower four-pot mated to an eight-speed automatic. For top fuel economy, go for the LE Hybrid thats good for 53 mpg on the highway. The base gas-powered Camry costs just $23,495 while the LE Hybrid has a price tag of $27,800. 2019 Toyota Camry Specifications Engine 2.5-liter, inline-four Horsepower 203 hp Torque 184 pound-feet Drive FWD 0-60 mph 7.6 seconds Top Speed 115 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Toyota Camry The latest Navigator is a glacier on wheels in terms of size. Youd basically have to have a windowless car to be able to say you hit a Lincoln Navigator because ti was in your blind spot. This translates to a huge seven-seat cabin with enough luxury to justify the Lincoln badge on the hood and enough tech to satisfy the buyer from 2019. Any Navigator is fitted with a 450-horsepower, turbocharged V-6 matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission. It comes with a six-year/70,000-mile warranty and eats a gallon of fuel every 23 miles on the highway, three miles more than in the case of the Escalade. Cadillacs full-size SUV starts at $73,395 while the Navigator starts at $73,205 and youll need to add $2,600 if you want AWD for better pulls aboard this highway cruiser. 2019 Lincoln Navigator Specifications Engine 3.5-liter, turbocharged V-6 Horsepower 450 hp Torque 510 pound-feet Drive RWD 0-60 mph 5.5 seconds Top Speed 115 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Lincoln Navigator. The Stinger has all the ingredients for a surprise. Nobody thought the Korean manufacturer better known for its fleet of economical cars could come up with a four-door grand tourer with cool styling and impressive performance. It's the performance that granted the Stinger a place on this list although Kia's halo model likes bends just as much as highway pulls. A 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine is the base unit available for the Stinger but you should go for the bigger V-6 as you still save a lot of money in comparison to the rivaling BMW or Mercedes-Benz (the base Stinger costs $31,900 while the V-6 variant starts at $38,350, over $3,000 cheaper than anything from the German stables). Granted, you wont get incredible mpg (the base model gets 29 mpg) but, since youll have to spend quite a lot of time commuting on the highway, you might as well have some fun doing it and youll certainly enjoy all of those 365 ponies under your right foot. 2019 Kia Stinger GT Specifications Engine 3.3-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6 Power 365 horsepower Torque 376 pound-feet Drive RWD 0-60 mph 4.7 seconds Top speed 167 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Kia Stinger GT. Hyundais premium brand, Genesis, is growing at an accelerated pace and the compact G80 sedan is proof of just how good a Hyundai-made vehicle can feel. For starters, the base price is just $41,750 and, for that money, you get an eight-inch touchscreen display inside with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto installed from the word go. You also get a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty thats certainly reassuring. The only slightly bad thing about the Genesis is that the base engine, a somewhat big 3.8-liter V-6, isnt as fuel efficient, although you still get 27 mpg highway, as the smaller units from BMW or Mercedes-Benz. But the G80 is a mid-size car with the price of a compact one from either of the two German brands. 2019 Genesis G80 Specifications Engine 3.8-liter, naturally-aspirated V-6 Power 311 horsepower Torque 293 pound-feet Drive RWD 0-60 mph 6.2 seconds Top speed 150 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Genesis G80. The Odyssey is the epitome of the modern people carrier so, if youve got to carry a lot of people as part of your highway commutes, the Odyssey is most likely the best highway cruiser of the lot because of just how practical it is. It can seat up to eight people, but you must remove the back row for maximum cargo space. With this being said, the Odyssey is a genuinely fuel-efficient minivan considering its size with an EPA estimate of 28 mpg highway. As youd expect, the build quality is more than acceptable and the base 3.5-liter V-6 mated to an automatic gearbox has enough oomph to make passing and merging hassle-free. Having said that, you may find the 5.0-inch display (with no Android Auto or Apple Car Play available in standard) a bit lacking given the $30,190 base price tag which is over $3,000 over the cheapest non-hybrid Chrysler Pacifica. 2019 Honda Odyssey Specifications Engine 3.5-liter, V-6 Horsepower 280 horsepower Torque 262 pound-feet Drive FWD 0-60 mph 8.3 seconds Top Speed 116 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Honda Odyssey. The third-generation Cadillac CTS will soon be heading to the retirement home along with its nameplate as Cadillac is now employing a new way of naming its cars, one awkwardly based around how much torque they make - measured in newton-meters, though, not in pound-feet. So, because there isnt much in the way of reviews on the 2019 CT5 (just like we dont know too much about the 2020 Genesis G80), Ive decided to include the CTS here to perform its swan song. But this doesn't mean the CTS is bad on the highway. In fact, if the A6 is Germany's response to the question, 'what is the best highway car?', the CTS is the answer coming from across the pond. Indeed, the mid-size Caddy comes with all the leather and wood youd expect on the inside, an improved CUE infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play already installed and, under the hood, a lively four-pot (with most of the torque available from 2,100 rpm) as the base engine. The catch is that even the four-pot isnt as fuel-efficient as BMWs base mill (30 mpg highway versus 34 mpg) but the CTS is about $6,000 cheaper than a 5 Series at $46,995. Also, the CTS has a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. 2019 Cadillac CTS Specifications Engine 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder Power 268 horsepower Torque 295 pound-feet Drive RWD 0-60 6.3 seconds Top speed 150 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Cadillac CTS. The Mazda CX-5 is undoubtedly a great all-rounder. The Japenese manufacturer added two new trim levels that take the CX-5 places it had never previously been before in terms of luxury as the top-of-the-line Signature model comes with a 360-degree camera, a seven-inch digital screen inside through which to operate the infotainment system (friendly with Android Auto and Apple Car Play from standard only in top trim), and traffic sign recognition among other ubiquitous safety features. The standard engine on a CX-5 is the naturally-aspirated, four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque at its disposal. It sends all the ponies to the front axle and this is why, if you want all that this platform has to offer, youll have to pony up some extra cash and go for a CX-5 Grand Touring or a CX-5 Signature as those come only with AWD and a bigger engine. The 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque 2.5-liter, turbocharged mill gives you all of its power on 93-octane fuel only and thats something to consider when youre already paying almost $37,000 on it (quite a lot in comparison to the $24,350 base MSRP but you do get a lot more car for your money). I picked the CX-5 because its probably the best compact SUV on the market today and its roomier than the CX-3 although cargo space is by no means impressive. The 3.3-liter engine gets 28 mpg on the highway while the base four-pot gets up to 31 mpg, numbers within the limits of the class. 2019 Mazda CX-5 Specifications (Signature) Engine 2.5-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder Power 250 horsepower Torque 310 pound-feet Drive AWD 0-60 mph 6.4 seconds Top Speed 130 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Mazda CX-5. The 300 is, in some ways, an old school car but one thats been getting better with age. As youd expect after glancing at the proportions, the 300 offers a roomy interior and, while it may not feel as premium as, say, an Audi, its still a comfy car to ride in that knows how to absorb bumps and remains one of the best highway cars made in the U.S. The base Touring trim level comes with an automatic from standard and this is a good thing as, a few years ago, you had to pay $1,000 extra to get the automatic over a sluggish five-speed manual. With this engine installed you get 30 mpg on the highway and adequate amounts of power and torque to not have you lag behind traffic. In fact, the 292 horsepower V-6 cradles an extra 51 horsepower in comparison to the base Mercedes-Benz E300. The Chrysler is also cheaper than a Merc with a base price of $29,220 while Stuttgarts sedan starts at just over $53,000, as much as a 5 Series. The 300 is also cheaper than the Genesis G80 and the other less-premium-feeling big sedans like the Kia Cadenza, Toyota Avalon or Nissan Maxima. In fact, the only car that can rival in terms of price is the Buick LaCrosse while the Chevy Impala is cheaper by about $1,000 but you can wholeheartedly feel it. 2019 Chrysler 300 Specifications Engine 3.6-liter V-6 Power 292 horsepower Torque 260 pound-feet Drive RWD 0-60 mph 6.5 seconds Top Speed 155 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Chrysler 300. The Grand Cherokee built its reputation as a more street smart Jeep, the first genuine SUV. Over time, it has become more and more fond of the streets and, as this is the topic of our discussion, the highways. Youre probably a fan of the 707 horsepower Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk but even your average Grand Cherokee will cheerfully eat miles up and down the highway. The infotainment system is intuitive, the cabin looks and feels upmarket, and the Grand Cherokee is affordable with a base price below that of a Mazda CX-9. It starts at just $31,945 which makes it about as expensive as a bare Honda Passport, an SUV that offers more cargo space in comparison. For best fuel efficiency pick the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine with an EPA-estimated economy on the highway of 30 mpg (choosing the diesel adds $4,500 to the price of a Grand Cherokee and is only available from the $39,195 Limited trim level upwards). Nevertheless, that means the diesel Grand Cherokee can traverse some 700 miles-worth of highway on one tank of fuel. Also, in a bid to keep you safe, Jeep made blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert standard for the 2019 model year. 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specifications (Laredo) Engine 3.6-liter V-6 Power 295 horsepower Torque 260 pound-feet Drive RWD 0-60 mph 7.1 seconds Top Speed 118 mph Read our full review on the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Further reading Best new cars for under $25,000 Ken Blocks Ford Escort RS Cosworth rally car must be cursed. A little over a year his first Escort RS Cosworth rally, which after he affectionately calls Cossie, caught fire and burned down, the second Escort RS Cosworth, called Cossie V2, once again came up short at the most inopportune time, conking out in the middle of the Rally in the 100 Acre Wood race. In a span of 20 months, Block has raced in two Escort RS Cosworth rally cars. Neither made it to the finish line. There must be a pattern there. The Ford Escort must not like Ken Block. Thats my takeaway here after Blocks second rally-spec Escort RS Cosworth, called Cossie V2, bailed on him in the middle of the Rally in the 100 Acre Wood race. The accompanying video goes into detail about the race preparations, the actual race, and the subsequent mishap that forced Block to retire from the race while he was running fourth overall. The 6:11 part of the video, we see smoke coming out of the hood of the Escort RS Cosworth and it didnt take long for Block and his navigator to stop the car and have it towed. According to Block, Cossie V2s engine failed in the middle of the rally as oil started to spray into the rally cars windshield. Block tried to ignore it at first, but when smoke started coming out of the hood a sign of oil burning there was no alternative but to stop and call it a race. It was a bitter end to what was supposed to be the start of the Cozzie World Tour. As unfortunate as the engine failure was, Cossie V2 still came out in pretty good shape. Block admitted that there are bigger problems with the car that caused the engine failure, but these are problems that his team is confident will get sorted out, hopefully, sooner rather than later. Still, Cossie V2 is still standing, at least for the most part. The same, sadly, cannot be said for the original Cossie, which burned to a charred crisp back in July 208 while it was competing at the New England Forest Rally in Maine. That incident was brought about by an error in Blocks part. According to reports, Block accidentally hit a rock on the apex of a left-hand corner of the race. The impact was hard enough that it sent the side of the Escort into the air where it flipped numerous time before it came to a crashing stop in the trees. As soon as the rally car landed upright, Block and his navigator, Alex Gelsomino, immediately rushed out of the car and watched as it was inevitably swallowed up by flames, destroying pretty much every bit of the rally-spec Ford racer. Block indicated at the time that the Cossies gearbox was the culprit of behind him messing up a shift as he approached the corner. The error led to the Escort clipping a rock, flipping over, and causing the fire that ultimately turned it into a charred crisp. By my count, thats two rally-spec Ford Escort RS Cosworth models that have crashed in the middle of the race. While the second appears to be in good enough condition to get fixed, the first versions are long gone. In fact, Cossies demise was what led to Cossie V2s creation. Hopefully, the need for a Cossie V3 doesnt occur anytime soon, though considering Blocks luck in driving these rally-spec racers, he might need to have horseshoes and cloves of garlic in his rearview mirror the next time he drives Cossie V2. Its a shame because the Escort RS Cosworth is such a cool rally-spec racer. Back when Block announced that he and his team were building one in 2017, the project took a life of its own. Most people in the U.S. remember the Escort as a bland block of metal on four wheels, but the Euro-spec version had a lot more spice in it, specifically performance-spec versions like the Escort RS1600 and the RS Cosworth. Block wanted to recreate that with Cossie, and, for a time, it worked. Block drove Cossie in a number of rally races, though, more importantly, the rally car played a big role in GymkhanaTEN. Unfortunately, the fiery crash in Maine cut short Cossies life, but it didnt take long for Block and his crew to build a new model that would play the starring role in the Cossie World Tour. The first stop of that tour was the Rally in the 100 Acre Wood here in the U.S. Stops in the U.K., New Zealand, Ireland, Poland, Italy, and Switzerland are also in the calendar, though given what happened to Cossie V2 in the Rally in the 100 Acre Wood race, its safe to say that the Cossie World Tour has gotten off to a rocky start. Theres still time to turn things around, but Im not as excited about as I used to be. Further Reading Ken Block and His 1993 Ford Escort Cosworth Are Officially Returning to American Stage Rally Read more Ken Block news. A new report by the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) says it is urgent for African countries to broaden and deepen their tax and revenue collection bases while leveraging digital technologies to boost collection and compliance, to achieve pressing development goals. Launched today in Marrakech, Morocco, where ECAs 52nd Session is taking place, the 2019 Economic Report on Africa (ERA 2019), regrets the continents weak state revenue-to-GDP ratio which stood at 21.4 per cent in 2018, noting that the continent must significantly augment that figure in a bid to adequately finance crucial development national programs as well as those set out in Agenda 2030 and Agenda 2063. The Report, whose theme is Fiscal Policy for Financing Sustainable Development in Africa, argues that government revenue on the continent can be increased by 12-20 per cent of GDP through the rigorous pursuit of tax and non-tax income collection especially by aligning fiscal policy with the business cycle. It makes a case for states to invest in strong institutions and advanced data collection methods that better monitor non-tax revenue streams while urging them to boldly venture into hard-to-tax areas such as agriculture, the informal sector and the digital economy. Reforming tax administration systems through the use of digitization, refraining from issuing unproductive tax incentives and becoming highly debt-disciplined, are other propositions made for expanding the public purse to finance development in Africa. The continent could increase tax revenue by as much as $99 billion or 4.6 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) annually if it sets out quickly to implement these recommendation, the Report projects. There is much to be achieved by leveraging digital systems for revenue harvesting. For instance, Rwanda increased revenue collection by 6 per cent of GDP by introducing e-taxation and South Africa used online tax payments to reduce compliance cost by a whopping 22.4 per cent while lessening the time to comply with the value-added tax by 21.8 per cent. However, improved tax/revenue performance cannot be hinged on tax efficiency alone but also on the provision of essential public services to reduce inequality and encourage economic growth and compliance, the Report advises. This should go with combating corruption and reinforcing accountability to reduce inefficiencies in tax collection. The Report also notes the importance of multinational and state-owned corporations that are dominant in this sector of natural resource exploitation. However, multinational corporations also have the ability to undertake complex international tax avoidance strategies that shift profits from where the underlying economic activities take place to low- or no-tax jurisdictions, a behavior referred to as base erosion and profit sharing, it says. Closing loopholes in existing agreements with the multinationals could boost tax revenues accruing to concerned governments by about 2.7 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), funds that can be deployed for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Report adds. Africa has a huge financing gap estimated at 11-13 percent of GDP per annum if it must achieve the targets of the UN sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063, but ERA 2019 shows how this gap can be quickly plugged. To achieve these two agendas, Africa needs to increase its domestic investment rate to 30-35 percent of annual GDP and triple its 3.2 percent growth rate to about 10 percent per annum, said Mr. Adam Elhiraika, Head of ECAs Macroeconomics and Governance Division which coordinated work on the Report. ERA 2019 is very timely for Africa as it explores comprehensive ways of financing development at a period when funding resources have been squeezed as fallouts of the global financial meltdown of 2008 and the nose-dive in commodity prices in 2014, said ECAs Executive Secretary Ms. Vera Songwe following the Report-launch. She was upbeat that though these precedents have rendered the task of pursuing the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Development and the AUs Agenda 2063 for a prosperous, integrated and peaceful Africa, difficult, I have no doubt that the imperative of raising additional revenues for financing these development agendas will be much easier for African countries that heed the carefully crafted recommendations in this Report. ECA has done such a good job with the 2019 Economic Report on Africa to the extent that we are asking the Commission to go further, said Mr. Mambury Njie, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs of the Gambia, who added that we now know where the problem [with mobilizing internal resources for development] is. One way of going further resides in the question: How can we make fiscal policy support structural transformation in Africa? quizzed Egypts Deputy Planning Minister Dr Ahmed Kamaly. Debaters at the launch also requested that ECA deepens research on how tax incentives influence investments and revenue collection, though experts tended to agree on growing evidence that incentives did not make a great difference. Others suggested that the Commission undertakes studies on how to mainstream the informal sector into the formal economy for more revenue wins and seeks to start accompanying member States in playing out the findings and recommendations of the Report. A global message to retain from ERA 2109 is that in Africa we have a challenge of financing the SDGs but this challenge is not insurmountable, it can be addressed with serious, focused efforts to mobilize more domestic revenue through fiscal policy, Mr. Elhiraika summed up. Extract from Chapter 7: Fiscal and public debt sustainability Public external debt Africas stock of public external debt averaged about $309bn over 2000-2006 and then rose further to $707bn in 2017 (figure 7.3), with a 15.5% increase from 2016 alone. Most of the rise reflects increased external borrowing by middle-income countries, with five of the six largest economies on the continent accounting for more than half of public external borrowing in 2017. South Africa borrowed $176bn externally, followed by Egypt at $82bn, Morocco at $49bn, Nigeria at $40bn and Angola at $37bn. The total debt stock was lower in some of the frontier markets than in middle-income countries, but the increase over the past few years was nonetheless considerable. For instance, Ethiopias external debt stock rose more than 250%, from $7.3bn in 2010 to $26.5bn in 2017. Kenyas pace of external debt accumulation was similar, with external debt stocks rising from $8.8bn in 2010 to $26.4bn in 2017 (nearly a 200% rise). Ghanas public debt rise was close to 145% between 2010 and 2017 (from $9bn to $22bn). The increase in external debt accumulation raises concerns about debt sustainability in many African countries, especially as external debt stocks have risen much faster than economic growth owing to rising interest rates in international capital markets. While the average ratio of external debt in Africa declined from 119% of GNI in 2003 to 32% in 2012 before rising in 2013 and stabilizing at 46% in 2017, debt ratios are still very high in some countries, mostly low-income economies. Debt ratios in 2017 were high in Djibouti (112%), Mauritius (156%), Mozambique (101%), Mauritania (89%), Sao Tome and Principe (67%) and Zambia (65%). With the high share of external debt to GNI, debt servicing costs have increased. About a third of African countries had debt servicing costs of more than 1015% of exports in 2017 (World Bank, 2018), including Cote dIvoire, with $2.2bn in external debt; Ghana, with $2.1bn; and Kenya and Zambia, both with $1.6bn; and Ethiopia, with $1.4bn. The changing patterns of external borrowing help to explain Africas rising external debt. In recent years African countries began to diversity the source and composition of their external debt (figure 7.4). They have increased their share of external borrowing from non-traditional creditors (non-Paris Club official bilateral creditors, foreign and domestic commercial creditors and other financial institutions) and reduced the share of concessional borrowing. Countries have been relying more on non-concessional sources (both bilateral and commercial creditors) and are increasingly tapping international bond markets. The expansion of non-concessional debt with longer maturity was due partly to enhanced IMF guidelines providing more flexibility in external debt sustainability limits and partly to progress by some countries in developing and deepening their financial sector, enabling them to issue dollar denominated sovereign bonds in international capital markets. While most African countries still rely heavily on financing from official bilateral and multilateral creditors (which together account for about 60% of Africas long-term external debt stock), nontraditional partners are emerging. These include the BRICS countries as well as private creditors, commercial banks and other private entities. The increasing role of China among non-traditional bilateral lenders is especially noteworthy, particularly in external financing for large-scale infrastructure projects. Table of contents Chapter 1: Recent economic and social developments Chapter 2: Fiscal policy and development finance Chapter 3: Tax policy and performance in Africa Chapter 4: Non-tax revenues for financing sustainable development Chapter 5: Tax administration in Africa Chapter 6: Multinational corporations, tax avoidance and evasion and natural resources management Chapter 7: Fiscal and public debt sustainability Chapter 8: Conclusions and policy recommendations Here's good news for travelers looking to visit Brazil in the near future. The Brazilian government has announced that visa-free entry will become available to citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia and Japan. Effective June 17, 2019, residents from those four countries with a valid passport will be permitted to stay in Brazil for 90 days from their date of first entry per day, with the possibility of extending their stay without exceeding 180 days. These citizens will no longer need to apply or pay for a visa. Full Article See Now: The U.S. had the highest number of Most Wanted properties, dominating the Hotels.com Loved By Guests Awards 2018 Ah, spring break -- the time of the year when tens of thousands of college kids head to the beach for fun, sun and shenanigans. But increasingly, these warm-weather locales are giving young partyers a chilly reception. Fed up with years of unruly antics and disturbing headlines, spring break destinations have started cracking down -- hard. Full Article See Now: The U.S. had the highest number of Most Wanted properties, dominating the Hotels.com Loved By Guests Awards 2018 editorial@tribune.com New York, March 22 Boeings 737 MAX aircraft will be outfitted with a warning light for malfunctions in the anti-stall system suspected in Octobers fatal crash in Indonesia, an industry source said on Thursday, standardising a feature previously sold as an optional extra. The development comes as the manufacturer struggles to cope with the fallout from both the Indonesia crash and another in Ethiopia this month, which have cast a spotlight on the safety certification process and shaken confidence in a plane that is crucial to its future plans. Known as a disagree light, this safety feature will become standard and is among the modifications the company will present to US authorities and clients in the coming days, the source said on condition of anonymity. Neither the Lion Air aircraft which crashed in Indonesia, nor the Ethiopian Airlines jet, had the feature, the source said. Modifications are in the final stages but Boeing wants to be certain this meets the expectations of regulators and customers, the industry source said. Neither Boeing nor the Federal Aviation Agency offered any comment. But an industry expert said the system should have already been included. AFP SpiceJet in talks for inducting planes SpiceJet on Friday said it was in discussion with lessors to bring in more planes into its fleet. It has grounded 12 Boeing 737 jet following regulatory directives this month. To cater the gap from the reduced fleet size, the firm is in discussion with various lessors globally to induct aircraft, it said amid reports that it is in talks to lease some grounded Jet planes. PTI monicakchauhan@gmail.com London, March 23 Leading London-based NRI industrial tycoons, the Hinduja family top the Asian Rich List 2019 for the sixth successive year with an estimated net worth of 25.2 billion pounds, an increase of over 3 billion pounds over the previous year. According to the Asian Rich List 2019 released at the Asian Business Awards here on Friday night, Steel magnates Lakshmi Mittal and his son Aditya Mittal remained in second place, with 11.2 billion pounds- down 2.8 billion pounds. India's High Commissioner to the UK Ruchi Ghanashyam released the list which is a compilation of the 101 wealthiest Asians in Britain, highlighting exceptional entrepreneurial achievement over the last 12 months. S P Lohia (Petrochemicals) took the third place with 5.8 billion pounds. The entries of the Asian Rich List 2019 have a combined wealth of more than 85.2 billion pounds. The figure is increasing year on year and this year's overall wealth increases by over 5 billion pounds. The list features seven new entries, including Hotelier Joginder Sanger and his son Girish Sanger who enter at number 40 on the list with an estimated value of 300 million pounds. Leading NRI entrepreneur Lord Swraj Paul and family are 17th in the list with a net worth 900 million pounds- an increase of 100 million pounds over the previous year. Shailesh Solanki, executive editor of Asian Marketing Group (AMG) publisher of the Rich List said, "The Asian Rich List is carefully compiled by a team of experts and it is the definitive guide to Asian wealth in Britain." Gopi Chand Hinduja, Co-Chairman of the Hinduja Group said "our existing portfolio of companies is all in the sunrise sectors. Our focus is on banking and financial services, healthcare and of course, philanthropy." In London, the Hindujas are continuing with the conversion of the Old War Office, on which they have a 250-year lease, into a luxury residential and 125-room Raffles Hotel complex. He said in India, there has been investment worth Rupees 1,000 crore (108 million pounds) in car and bus manufacturers Ashok Leyland, where Gopi's younger son, Dheeraj Hinduja, is chairman. It recently inaugurated a cutting edge electric vehicle facility in its Ennore plant at Chennai. Ashok Leyland is introducing battery-operated technology in its buses. Gopi said "All our businesses are going through a digital transformation journey." For example, "Hinduja Global Solutions (HGS) is ramping up its headcount in the US, with plans to add 600 more people by June 2019 by setting up a new centre in Florida." HGS, rebranded from HTMT Global, has a presence in 12 countries including the Philippines, the US, the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Mauritius, the UAE and Jamaica. In India, it has 68 "delivery centres" in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Mumbai as well as in growing cities such as Mysore, Nagercoil, Durgapur, Siliguri and Guntur. The Hinduja National Power Corp recently acquired Kiran Energy Solar Power for Rs 1,000 crore (108 million) to "augment our presence in the renewable and alternative energy space," Gopi explained. In healthcare, special attention is being devoted to spreading "cancer awareness". In Mumbai, the PD Hinduja Hospital was involved in organising "the cancer is curable ride" on World Cancer Day on February 4. PTI editorial@tribune.com Chandigarh, March 22 A doctor, who was allegedly drunk, created a ruckus at the GMCH-32 here on Holi. Security guards at the hospital told the police that the doctor abused and misbehaved with them. The incident happened near the Serai building when the doctor, who was drunk, abused us in full public view. He also manhandled one of the guards. Under pressure, the police did not take any action against him or got his medical examination done, they alleged. When contacted, the doctor denied the allegations. He said he was neither drunk nor he misbehaved. Baldev Singh, SHO, Sector 34 police station, said, The guards and the doctor have reached a compromise. TNS editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, March 22 The UT police have arrested three thieves, who had recently escaped from a drug de-addiction centre, for stealing Rs 20,000 and important documents from a house in Kajheri village, Sector 52, here, while the owner had gone for a morning walk. According to the police, the accused have been identified as Charan Kamal Singh Saini (29), a resident of Patiala district, and Tajinderpal Singh (29) and Amrinder Singh (28), both residents of Ludhiana. The police said the accused had taken a hotel on rent in Kajheri after which they conducted a recce of the area to locate the house that was found locked. The trio had committed theft at the house of Owais Mushtaq a resident of Kajheri village in Sector 52 here. Mushtaq reported that he had gone for a morning walk on March 20. On returning home, he found locks of the door broken and the house ransacked. The complainants purse containing cash, ATM cards and important documents were stolen from the house. The police were informed following which a case was registered at the Sector 36 police station. Accused are drug addicts The police said the accused were drug addicts and they had recently escaped from a drug de-addiction centre in Patiala. The accused then started committing thefts to purchase drugs. Trio used to stay in hotel The accused used to stay in a hotel and conduct recce of the nearby areas. The accused then targeted locked houses and PGs. Thieves strike at shop in Maloya Chandigarh: A theft incident was reported at a shop in Maloya on the intervening night of March 19 and 20. According to the police, Krishan Kumar Garg reported that an unknown person had stolen cash and other valuables from his shop at Maloya colony. The police were informed about the incident following which a case has been registered at the Maloya police station and an investigation has been initiated. TNS Rajesh Ramachandran Rajesh Ramachandran TODAY is March 23, the death anniversary of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru the greatest youth icons of the national movement. Such occasions always prompt us to ask the what if question: what if the British had been less brutal and had given them a prison sentence instead of death? Even if the three were transported for life to Kalapani, they would only have been in their late forties when India gained freedom. Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev were just 23 and Rajguru 22 when they were hanged for killing Saunders, the Assistant Superintendent of Police of Lahore. They were much younger than Nehru and the rest of his Cabinet and could have lived up till the 1980s. Well, in the real world there are no what if questions. The real world also teaches us that sprays of opportunism often douse the flames of idealism. Unfortunately, since 2004, with our general election scheduled in May, the martyrs anniversary falls in the middle of electioneering every five years. And that is the worst opportunistic context to remember those who epitomised idealism. In fact, election after election, our national politics underscores the primacy of opportunism, falsities, hypocrisy and cynicism. What have Tom Vadakkan and Hindutva in common? All that the BJP wanted was a headline: Senior Congress functionary and close Sonia aide joins BJP. Only those who understand the feudal workings of the Congress organisational hierarchy would know that he was neither a senior functionary nor a close aide of Sonia. The BJP seemed to have merely wanted to embarrass the Congress during elections by luring a spokesman visible across TV channels and that, too, a Catholic. The Congress returned the favour by getting the son of a former BJP chief minister to cross over. What achievements! Worse is the case with pre-poll alliances. For instance, Shiv Sena was vocally abusive of the BJP, the Central government and the Prime Minister, until the dates of elections were announced. Now, they have kissed and made up, clearly indicating that a four-cornered contest as it happened during the Assembly polls may not be a viable proposition (Pawar may not want to play ball again). If this is the chemistry between the Hindutva siblings, what to expect from ideologically contradictory formations? The Left and the Congress had fought each other all these 70-odd years. The Left had no qualms in sharing power with the RSS in the Samyukta Vidhayak Dal governments in Bihar and elsewhere in 1967, just to get the Congress out of power. Anti-Congressism was the only common factor that assumed the proportions of a political ideology. The CPI, the CPI(M) and the BJP joined hands to keep Rajiv Gandhi out of power in 1989 and to make VP Singh the Prime Minister. Now, there is a complete role reversal, a much-reduced Congress is joining hands with all and sundry just to push the BJP out of power. It could have been done as a political programme over the past five years, building a strong Opposition, brick by brick, cementing it with the ethos of our plural polity. But the alliances on either side are only dictated by the compulsions of electoral opportunism. The worst example is the Congress Delhi dilemma: to go with Aam Aadmi Party or not. The essential vote base of the AAP is that of the Congress. In the AAP tsunami of 2015, the Congress vote share shrunk to just 9 per cent when the AAP votes swelled to 54 per cent. In 2008, the Congress had 40 per cent of the popular vote despite ruling the state for two consecutive terms. The BJP's vote share was only marginally affected: from 36 per cent in 2008 and 34 per cent in 2013, it came down to 32 per cent in 2015. Meanwhile, the BSP, too, was decimated with its vote share falling from 14 per cent in 2008 to just 1.31 per cent in 2015. It was very clear that the Dalit, Muslim and floating voters of the Congress and the BJP had gravitated towards the AAP, which won 67 of the 70 seats. But it just took two years for the AAP to lose its lustre and turn into an also-ran in a three-cornered civic body contest in 2017 April. The BJP swept the municipal polls with 181 of 270 wards and 36 per cent votes, with the AAP winning just 26 per cent and a resurgent Congress gaining 21 per cent votes. So, all the talk about a joint fight against the BJPs communal politics in Delhi is nothing but the fear of losing all the seven seats if the AAP and the Congress votes get split down the middle. If they come together, it could be a formidable alliance with a base vote share of over 45 per cent, something akin to the AAP tally in 2015. But a programmatic alliance over politics of diversity in 2017 could have lent a lot of goodwill, which this opportunistic last-minute tie-up lacks. After all, the AAP was born in an anti-Congress, anti-corruption crusade just a few years ago. Similarly the CPI(M) is anxious to have an alliance with the Congress in West Bengal. From 30 per cent in 2011, its vote share dropped to 19 per cent in the 2016 Assembly polls, with merely 26 MLAs in a House of 295. Here, too, the pre-poll alliance is so opportunistic that it cannot sell this idea in Kerala, where the CPI(M)-led government takes on the Congress in a vicious campaign. The Left parties cynically hope that the Sabarimala issue will force Congress voters to move towards the BJP, thereby helping the Left gain the upper hand. The BJPs pre-poll alliances in Tamil Nadu and elsewhere are no different. A national election demands a programmatic political alliance based on a common agenda and a common ideological goal. But in this opportunistic theatre of the power-crazy, voters are mere spectators who get pick-pocketed every time the curtain goes up. Chaman Lal Chaman Lal Former JNU Professor and Honorary advisor to Bhagat Singh Archives and Resource Centre, Delhi A Special Tribunal of three High Court judges was notified by Chief Justice of Punjab High Court Chief Justice Shadi Lal, on May 1, 1930 for the trial of the Lahore Conspiracy case. This tribunal consisted of Justice Coldstream as President and Justice Agha Haider and Justice Hilton as members. While on May 5, five comrades of Bhagat Singh wrote to the tribunal about their decision to boycott the tribunal, 10 other comrades, including Bhagat Singh, wrote on May 8, 1930, their response to avail themselves of legal help for the case. This letter had not been found earlier. But in March 2018, the Punjab Archives, Lahore, for the first time after 1931, put up an exhibition of a few exhibits from the over 100 files related to Bhagat Singh. Ammara Ahmad, a Lahore journalist, was kind enough to send the photographs of a few exhibits, including this letter. The Punjab Archives, Lahore, has claimed that it has now made all records of Bhagat Singh public and probably digitalised them also. It would be good if the Punjab Government in Chandigarh approached the Punjab Government in Lahore to share all records relating to Bhagat Singh and the records are put on display in Khatkar Kalan (Nawanshahr-Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar State Museum on Bhagat Singh). The following is the text of the letter: In the court of the Special Tribunal Lahore Conspiracy case, Lahore Crown vs. Sukhdev & others Charged under secs 302, 120-B+121-A, IPC This humble petition of the accused persons Bhagat Singh & others most respectfully showeth: (1) That the petitioners are charged with most serious offences including sec. 302 with 120B and 109 IPC (2) That the majority of the petitioners have been lodged for the last eight or nine months in jail. (3) That with one exception, all the petitioners as stated below belong to distant provinces and as such have no relative here to look after their defence. 1. Ajay Kumar Ghosh Allahabad, U.P 2. Bejoy Kumar SinhaCawnpore, U.P 3. Prem Dutt Srinagar, Kashmir 4. Kamal Nath TewaryBetiah, Bihar 5. Shiv Verma Hardoi, U.P 6. Jai Dev Kapoor Hardoi, U.P 7. S.N. Pande Cawnpore, U.P. 8. Kishori Lal Quetta, Baluchistan 9. Des Raj Sialkot, guardian outside India (4) That five of the petitioners are unrepresented accused defending their case themselves. (5) That for the reasons stated above in paras 3+4, the petitioners can make arrangement for their defence only through their friends, attorneys and members of defence committee. (6) That it is therefore prayed that in the interest of justice, the learned court be pleased to grant the petitioners following facilities- I. Interviews with friends, attorneys, legal advisors and members of defence committee members and relatives in court during lunch hours or after the rising of the court during the one hour stay... for mutual consultation II. Instructions should be sent to the Supdts of Borstal and Central jails for allowing interviews with the same. III. Subject to accommodation the legal advisors of the unrepresented accused be given seats in the body of the court room. IV. Recognition of the defence committee and permission to two members of committee to sit in the body of the court subject to accommodation. (7) That it is prayed that in view of the large number of prosecution exhibits of this case, one of the days of the week preferably Saturday be set for the examination of the exhibits by the accused and their counsels. Hand written and signed by- 1. Bhagat Singh 2. Bejoy Kumar Sinha 3. Ajay Kumar Ghosh 4. SuPande 5. Jai Deva Kapor 6. Kishori Lal Ratan 7. Prem Datt Varma 8. Shiv Varma 9. Kamalnath Tewari 10. Des Raj 8th May 1930 (Official Stamp Lahore) ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Sushil Manav Tribune news service Chandigarh, March 22 Nearly 48 hours after he fell into a 60-foot-deep borewell at Balsamad village of Hisar, 18-month-old Nadeem was today rescued by National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Army personnel. Edit: No more death traps The child is safe and healthy. The doctors have given him glucose drip and are keeping him under close watch. But there is nothing to worry, as he is hale and hearty, Hisar Deputy Commissioner Ashok Meena said. Nadeem had fallen into the borewell while playing near his house on Wednesday evening. A farmer had got that borewell dug to install the tubewell, but it had been left open for the past some days. The authorities said the rescue operations took long because they did not want to take any risks with the safety of the child. As the rescuers reached close to the spot where the child was trapped, digging by machines was stopped and was carried out manually to ensure that soil did not fall over the infant, they said. Earlier, the rescue teams had started digging a parallel well about 20 feet away from the borewell and later, a tunnel was dug to bring out the child safely. The childs movements were monitored using a night-vision camera which was dropped inside the borewell. Villagers said Nadeem was playing with some friends who were plucking fruits from a tree when he suddenly fell into the borewell. The childs father is a labourer. Earthmovers, drilling machines and other equipment were used to rescue the child, even as oxygen tubes were dropped to help him breathe. Biscuits and juices were supplied to the child. A medical team had also been deployed at the incident site. Yesterday, the child had taken a Frooti drink sent to him in the borewell. Meena said that legal action will be taken against the person who dug the borewell without taking any permission from the government. He said a survey would also be carried out in the district to find out how many borewells had been left open and could pose danger. Past, present danger The accident has again brought into focus the dangers posed by uncovered borewells. A massive operation was launched in 2006 to rescue five-year-old Prince, who had fallen into a borewell in a village in Kurukshetra. He was also pulled out safely after nearly 48 hours. editorial@tribune.com Parveen Arora Tribune News Service Karnal, March 22 Scientists of National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) here have been successful in addressing the challenges to make processed dairy products from goat milk. After extensive research, they have developed the technology to make yoghurt, curd and cheese from goat milk, the composition of which is different from bovine (cow and buffalo) milk and is thus difficult to convert into processed dairy products. The NDRI is now collaborating with entrepreneurs to bring goat milk products into the market. Dr AK Singh, Principal Scientist, Dairy Technology Division of NDRI, along with other scientists Dr Lata Sabiki, Dr Heena Sharma, Dr Sumit Arora, Dr Sanket Borad and Atunu Das has been working on this technology for the last three years. Dr Singh said the common method of making processed dairy products was not applicable to goat milk as it lacked major type of proteins such as alpha s1 casein. Besides, the smaller size of fat globules and higher amount of calcium and phosphate posed a challenge to manufacturing fermented products. At present, the total milk production (from bovine and non-bovine livestock) in the country is 176 million tonne, accounting for about 18 per cent of the global milk pool. India produces 4.85 MT goat milk, which is 29 per cent of the total goat milk production. Dr Singh said goat milk had a composition similar to breast milk and was considered good for people of all age groups. Goat milk and its products are popular in Mediterranean countries and Northern European nations. In our country, some attempts have been made to convert goat milk into value-added dairy products. Our main aim is to make processed products from raw goat milk so that a larger number of people can get its benefits, he said. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Panipat, March 22 Two youths were murdered during Holi celebrations in the district on Thursday. The deceased were identified as Ravi (21) of Pwati village in Samalkha division and Hemant (19) of Imam Bara on the Jatal road in Panipat city. Both were murdered with sharp-edged weapons. The family members of Ravi, along with villagers, on Friday blocked traffic on the National Highway-44 near Samalkha and demanded arrest of the accused. Rinku, brother of the deceased, said some youths had organised a DJ party on the occasion of Holi and his brother went there. He alleged some youths attacked his brother with sharp-edged weapons due to which he died. The accused have been identified as Dalip, Ravi, Praveen, Vijaypal and Mandeep. They have been booked under Sections 302, 120 B and 34 of the IPC. Six teams have been constituted to nab the accused. Besides, a 23-year-old youth was shot in the Shakti Vihar colony in the city while police personnel were beaten in Binjhol village. Meanwhile, in another murder case, Anil Kumar of Imam Bara on the Jatal road, in his complaint to the police, said his son Hemant (19) was stabbed to death on Holi. He alleged that Hemants friend Anurag, alias Suktavi, of Khatik Basti, called his son and attacked him with a sharp-edged weapon in the Imam Bara area. Anurag murdered his son due to some old feud, Anil Kumar alleged. The police have registered a case under Section 302 of the IPC and Sections 25, 54 and 59 of the Arms Act against the accused. monicakchauhan@gmail.com Praveen Arora Tribune News Service Karnal, March 23 Jabra, a wanted gangster was on Saturday killed in an encounter with the Haryana Police near Bada Gaon village. Jabra was a resident of Ladwa village and was wanted in two murders, including of a Dadupur-based resident, Vikas. Vikas was shot dead in his car outside a dhaba near Shamgarh village on the National Highway-44 on January 17. Jabra was also the accused in the murder of Vikass relative Suresh alias Babli, a former sarpanch of Anjanthali village. He too was shot dead last year. editorial@tribune.com Vishal Joshi Tribune News Service Kurukshetra, March 22 After a wait of more than one and a half years, work on Golden Jubilee Brahma Sarovar Community Reserve, a biodiversity site, at Thana village in the district has finally started. The development project is aimed at strengthening the natural environment for a large number of species of migratory birds at the ancient Brahamsar pond. Wildlife experts say Thana is a spot where a wide range of birds from abroad, including northern shovelers, common teals, northern pintails, greylag geese and Brahminy ducks, come in the winter season. The winged population converts the water body to its resting and feeding place from October for nearly four months. Experts say there is no confirmation if migratory birds lay eggs at Thana. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had laid the foundation stone of the conservation project on July 2017, but it failed to move forward due to bureaucratic hurdles. Spread over 100 acres, the natural water body is home to softshell turtles that are among the critically endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list. The pond is also a natural habitat of flapshell turtle and various species of fish. SS Rawat, Divisional Wildlife Forest Officer, told The Tribune on Friday that in the first phase, the wildlife wing of the forest department, had started constructing a bund around the pond. Earthwork has also been started to strengthen scores of ancient jaal trees around the pond. It is important to stop soil erosion that will further check the problem of silt deposit at the pond, he said. Rawat said in the next phase, mounds would be constructed for the avian population that arrived at Thana from Eurasia and the Arctic region. Also, a boundary wall would be erected around the pond to check unrestricted movement of cattle and stray dogs, he said. Dr Chetna Sharma, a birdwatcher, said Thana was a rare and unnoticed spot that was a temporary home to the bird population of more than 55 species. She said the state authorities should make coordinated efforts to complete the work by the next season before the birds started arriving at Thana. Gagan Mittal, a wildlife enthusiast and zoology teacher from Kaithals RKSD College, said there was an urgent need for a soil waste management plan to check the flow of untreated water of the village entering the pond. As the pond will gradually turn dry in the summer, the authorities should rope in villagers to conserve the wetland that is a rare biodiversity hotspot. We are working to start an eco-club for schoolchildren of Thana, he said. Bureaucratic hurdles Chief Minister Manohal Lal Khattar had laid the foundation stone of the conservation project in July 2017, but it failed to move forward due to bureaucratic hurdles The project is aimed at strengthening the natural environment for a large number of species of migratory birds at the ancient Brahamsar pond Bund around Brahamsar pond editorial@tribune.com Pratibha Chauhan Tribune News Service Shimla, March 22 The chances of the BJP fielding a new face from the Kangra Lok Sabha constituency has gained strength with the former Chief Minister Shanta Kumar himself indicating that he was not to keen to contest and search for a formidable candidate is on. BJP sources said that Shanta, who is the sitting Lok Sabha MP from Kangra, has been conveyed the high commands decision of not fielding him, following which he announced that he was not keen to contest. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur met Shanta Kumar at his Delhi residence today to discuss the issue of ticket allotment in wake of Shanta being out of the race. Party sources said names of two Cabinet ministers - Kishan Kapoor, a Gaddi MLA from Dharamsala and Vipin Parmar, Health minister and MLA from Sulah Assembly segment, are under serious consideration. A new name being added to the list of probables is that of Indu Goswami, state Mahila Morcha chief who had lost the last Assembly election from Shantas home town of Palampur. The name of Kripal Parmar, a former Rajya Sabha MP, also figures prominently in the list. Senior BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, state BJP president Satpal Singh Satti, former CM PK Dhumal and Shanta have held a series of meetings in Delhi to forge consensus on selection of candidates for the four Lok Sabha seats. The possibility of Shimla MP Virender Kashyap also being replaced with a new face is also rife in BJP circles. The names of Pachad MLA Suresh Kashyap and HN Kashyap being given the ticket are doing the rounds. The name of the candidate from Kangra will have to be finalised with the consent of Shanta Kumar or else it could lead to problems. The candidate too will have to seek his blessings, admitted a senior party functionary. Speculation about Shanta being replaced had begun last night only after LK Advani had failed to find a place in the BJP list of candidates. A majority of the senior leaders were skeptical over Shantas candidature, considering that in 2014 he had announced that he would not be contesting again. As such, he did not remain very active as an MP. It is only lately that he gave indication of not being averse to taking the electoral plunge once again. Shanta Kumar said he had conveyed his choice for the candidate from Kangra to the the party high command but the final decision would be taken after evolving consensus and finally the stamp of approval of the high command. Who the BJP fields will ultimately depend on the stamp of approval of the BJP Parliamentary Board which is likely to meet tomorrow. editorial@tribune.com Abhinav Vashisht Kullu, MARCH 22 The national carrier Air India has increased the fares for the Kullu-Delhi sector for the upcoming tourist season. While earlier the maximum fare was nearly Rs 20,000 for one-way journey now the fare will be around Rs 23,000 from the month of April. The seats were generally available for the highest fare in the month of April and onwards. Kullu Travel Agents Association patron Bhupinder Thakur said while on the other sectors the fare increases as the date comes nearer as seats fill up, for the Kullu-Delhi sector the airlines was providing only the highest fare, which were sometimes lowered a day or two earlier in case of less bookings. Bhupinder demanded that the Kullu airport should be included in the Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme to provide better facilities and cheaper air fares to commuters. He said the government should rope in other airlines to increase competition and promote the growth of tourism industry. Earlier, the government had announced to put a cap on the fare for flights less than one-hour duration to Rs 2,500. However, the fares for flight of 45-minute duration between Kullu and Chandigarh were not capped and neither was any relief provided for over one-hour duration flights to Delhi.Aviation experts stated that the 70-seater aircraft was permitted to carry only around 35 passengers from Bhuntar airport due to short runway and load stipulations. Thus, the prices had to be kept on the higher side by the airline. They said that new players of the industry would be attracted to carry out operations to Kullu after the expansion of airport, which was under consideration. The hefty airfares charged by the airline would make air travel out of reach of the common masses. Those associated with the tourism industry said that heavy fares charged by the airline were a deterrent for the tourists to opt for air travel. They demanded that the government should intervene and lower the fares of flights operating to Kullu to promote the tourism industry by introducing special scheme for areas not connected by rail. monicakchauhan@gmail.com Vibha Sharma Tribune News Service New Delhi, March 23 The BJP on Saturday dropped two of its four sitting MPs in Himachal Pradesh, including veteran Shanta Kumar, for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. While Hamirpur strongman Anurag Thakur has been repeated, as expected, the BJP also re-fielded Ramswaroop Sharma from Mandi even though speculations were that he could be dropped. Meanwhile, state Cabinet minister and Dharamsala MLA Kishan Kapoor has replaced Shanta Kumar in Kangra, the latters stronghold for decades, while another sitting MLA Suresh Kashyap has replaced sitting MP Virender Kashyap in Shimla Lok Sabha constituency. Sources said the decision was taken on the basis of internal surveys and several rounds of discussions. Senior BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, state BJP president Satpal Singh Satti, former CM PK Dhumal held a series of meetings in Delhi to forge consensus on selection of candidates for the four Lok Sabha seats. The names for the four Lok Sabha constituencies of Himachal Pradesh were announced by senior BJP leader JP Nadda this evening along with candidates for Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat and Karnataka. Sources said Kishan Kapoor had the blessings of senior leader Shanta Kumar, who himself had chosen to opt out of the forthcoming general elections. However, speculation about Shanta being replaced were rife only after LK Advani had failed to find a place in the BJP list of candidates. A majority of the senior leaders were skeptical over Shantas candidature given the age factor. editorial@tribune.com Dipender Manta Tribune News Service Mandi, March 22 Alarmed over the boycott threat of the Lok Sabha elections by the tribals, the Lahaul Spiti district administration has initiated a dialogue with the affected people. The tribals, who had been cut off from the rest of the state due to lack of road connectivity and telecommunication service since December, had threatened to boycott the Lok Sabha elections. Deputy Commissioner Lahaul Spiti Ashwani Kumar Chaudhari assured them today that their demands will be considered on priority and the district administration is working in this direction. The threat has worried the district administration Lahaul Spiti, which is planning to ensure maximum voting percentage in the election scheduled on May 19. There are total 23,407 voters in the district. The tribals are demanding speedy restoration of internal road links of Lahaul Spiti and clearing the 13,050-ft high Rohtang Pass of snow, the gateway to Lahaul, on the Manali-Leh highway to enable transportation facility. Due to heavy snowfall this winter traffic had come to a standstill in Lahaul Spiti for the past three months, which irked the residents. They are dependent on helicopter sorties arranged by the state government to move in and out of the district in emergency cases. Apart from this, telecommunication service is out of order in major parts of the district since December. Around 15 panchayats of the district have threatened to boycott the Lok Sabha elections if the state government and the district administration fails to restore road and telecommunication facilities in time. Kabul, Mar 23 (IBNS): A blast targeted a Farmers Day ceremony at a local stadium in southern city of Lashkargah in Helmand area of Afghanistan and left at least three people killed on Saturday, media reports said. Afghanistan's Ministry of Interior spokesman Nusrat Rahimi told Tolo News that the casualties might increase. He told the news portal that the blast was the result of two mines placed at the stadium. Sources told Tolo News that the explosion happened in an area close to security and local officials, including the provincial governor. A local official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told the news portal that head of Directorate of Economy in Helmand, Mohammad Khan Nusrat, lost his life in the explosion. Taliban has claimed responsibility for the incident. ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Majid Jahangir & Suhail A Shah Tribune News Service Srinagar/Anantnag, March 22 A 12-year-old boy allegedly held hostage by ultras and six militants, including two Pakistanis, were killed in three separate gunfights in Kashmir today. With the killing of six militants, the security forces have eliminated eight militants in the past 24 hours. The police said a cordon-and-search operation was launched in north Kashmirs Hajin area, around 30 km from Srinagar, yesterday. As the searches were going on, the hiding terrorists fired from a house. There were at least eight persons inside the house when the first contact was established, Bandipore SSP Rahul Malik said. The operation, he said, was put on hold and at least six civilians were rescued in the first two hours. Once we rescued them, we came to know that two more persons, including 12-year-old Aatif Mir, had been taken hostage. We tried to rescue them through multiple measures. The family appealed to the militants to release them. Community members were engaged, SSP Malik said. We also involved our team specialising in room intervention and they went to the third floor, but militants fired at them again, he said. They were able to rescue the boys uncle on Thursday afternoon. We waited for nine hours. As the firing from that side intensified, we also retaliated and in the process, two Pakistani militants Ali and Hubaib of Lashkar-e-Toiba were eliminated, he added. Malik said according to those rescued, the boy was kept hostage by Ali. It is he who killed the boy before our team stormed the building, the SSP added. He claimed Ali wanted to marry the childs sister and that was the reason that he kept the boy hostage. The boys mother Shareefa said, I repeatedly pleaded for my sons release, but they did not allow him to leave. A video on social media showed an elderly man appealing to the militants to release the duo, saying it was not jihad. The police claimed the slain militants were involved in a series of killings in the area. The house was razed to rubble during the gunfight and the charred body of the boy recovered. Two AK-47 rifles were also recovered from the spot. Meanwhile, two militants were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Shopian this morning. Two militants were also killed in Sopore. PSO injured amansharma@tribunemail.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, March 23 With the Enforcement Directorate attaching the property of Kashmiri businessman Zahoor Ahmad Shah Watali in Gurugram, crackdown by authorities has begun on people and organisations suspected in activities of terror funding, especially in Jammu and Kashmir. The authorities in multi agencies moving in coordination are on the job after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) identified 12 others in the May 2017 case relating to the J&K terror funding. Watali is in Tihar jail since last year, sources in the government said today. Two other accused, Kamran Yusuf and Javed Ajmed Bhat who have been chargesheeted for their role in stone pelting and anti-India protests, are on bail granted by the trial court, the sources said. The government started seizing properties belonging to terror financers identified by the NIA with the Enforcement Directorate initiating action to freeze and seize such assets. Ongoing investigations in the first phase determined and quantified assets valued over Rs 7 crore as proceeds of terror-funding crimes. Watali, the sources said, is a major conduit for funnelling terror finances in the country and incriminating documents seized by the ED show he was receiving money from Hafiz Saeed, Syed Salahuddin, ISI and Pakistan High Commission at New Delhi and also known to have important sources of Hawala financing operating out of Dubai. Funds, the sources added, were made available to the leadership of Valley-based terrorist groups for providing the means to misguide and recruit local youth to terrorist ranks, including from madarsas and mosques. In addition, operational activities of terror groups were also being financed, including attacks on security forces personnel, their camps and convoys, the sources added. Money obtained through these channels was also being used by major secessionist formations, particularly All Party Hurriyat Conference (APHC), the source said, adding these funds were used to maintain top APHC leadership and to use propaganda machinery to arouse disaffection among people of J&K against the Government of India. In addition, the sources said the funds were used to spread false information through media contacts, newspapers and social media. In turn, these activities were used to instigate and lure misguided youth to resort to anti-India activities, violent street protests, demonstrations and stone pelting on security forces at encounter sites to foment further violence, the sources said. In addition, such funds were used to finance institutions focussed on subverting the local population through selected mosques, madarsas and organisations, including banned Jammat-e-Islami (J&K). The sources said in addition to Watali, 10 others under probe in the NIA case of May 2017 regarding funding include Hafiz Mohammed Saeed, Sayed Salahuddin, Aftab Ahmad Shah, Altf Ahmad Shah, Mohammed Nayeem Khan, Farooq Ahmad Dar, Mohadd Akbar Khanday, Mehrajuddin Kalwal, Bashir Ahmad Bhat and Nawal Kishore Kapoor, who is alleged to have remitted Rs 5.6 crore to Watali. editorial@tribune.com Sumit Hakhoo Tribune News Service Jammu, March 22 After much speculation, the Congress has fielded former minister and senior party leader, Raman Bhalla, from the Jammu-Poonch parliamentary constituency and scion of the Dogra dynasty, Vikramaditya Singh, from the Kathua-Udhampur-Doda seat. Both are joint candidates of the Congress-NC alliance in Jammu and Kashmir for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Sources said Salman Soz, son of former Union minister Saif-ud-Din Soz, would be the candidate from the Baramulla seat, where both parties are in a friendly fight. Although official confirmation is yet come from the Congress, Raman and Vikramaditya were introduced by NC chief Farooq Abdullah at the party office, Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan, where it had organised a campaign meeting. We have come together to save secularism and end divisive politics which is threatening the country today, Farooq said. We will frustrate the nefarious designs of these forces, he vowed and pointed out that his party had decided to support the Congress candidates on two Lok Sabha seats of Jammu province only to strengthen secular forces. The screening committee of the Congress will be meeting in New Delhi to decide the probable candidates for two other seats also which include, Anantnag and Ladakh. The Congress will not field any candidate for the Srinagar parliamentary seat as per the seat sharing agreement with the National Conference. Raman and Vikramaditya are our candidates for the Jammu and Udhampur constituency, respectively. An official announcement will be made also in this regard within a day or two, said Ravinder Kumar Sharma, chief spokesperson, J&K Pradesh Congress Committee. After weeks of closed-door negotiations between senior leaders of both parties, the NC and Congress decided entered into an alliance on three Lok Sabha seats on March 20. The Congress will contest the Jammu-Poonch and Udhampur-Doda seat, with the NC not to filed its candidates. The NC will fight from Srinagar-Budgam, where the Congress will not field any candidate. On other three seats, Baramulla, Anantnag and Ladakh, the two parties have decided to put up friendly candidates. Party needs to be strengthened in J&K: Soz Srinagar: After finalising a pre-poll alliance with the NC for the six Lok Sabha seats in the state, the Congress feels there is scope for its rejuvenation. The Congress can be rejuvenated because it is now seen as a bulwark against the Modi regime. There is scope for making the party stronger in the state, said Saifuddin Soz, senior Congress leader. He said no party in J&K in recent past had been in a position to get a majority like in some other states. He said the coalition had become the order of the day. tns editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, March 22 The Centre on Friday banned the Yasin Malik-led Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)-1967 for allegedly promoting secession of the militancy-hit state from the Union of India. Announcing the decision, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said the Centre had followed the policy of zero tolerance against terrorism and acted strongly against terrorists and in the pursuit of this, it has today declared the JKLF as an unlawful organisation under the provisions of Section 3(1) of the UAPA-1967. Sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs said the decision was arrived at after a high-level security meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as the Centre was of the opinion that the JKLF was in close touch with the militant outfits and was supporting extremism and militancy in J&K and elsewhere. The Home Secretary also contended that only with this objective, the Centre on February 28 this year had declared the Jamaat-e-Islami, J&K, as an unlawful association under the UAPA and it was made clear at that time that the banned organisation was separate from the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind. The Jamaat-e-Islami, J&K, is responsible for the formation of the Hizbul Mujahideen, the biggest terrorist organisation active in the Himalayan state, he added. Gauba said similarly, the JKLF was an organisation that claims secession of a part of the Indian territory from the Union and supports terrorist and separatist groups fighting for this purpose. He said the banned outfit had been at the forefront of the separatist activities in J&K and was involved in the killings of the Kashmiri Pandits in 1989, leading to their exodus from the Valley. At present, Yasin Malik is lodged at the Kot Balwal jail in Jammu and is likely to face trial in the three-decade-old case of kidnapping of Rubaya Sayeed, the daughter of then Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, and gunning down of four Indian Air Force personnel in Srinagar, Gauba added. The JKLF was founded by Pakistani national Amanullah Khan in mid-1970s at Birmingham in the UK and came into prominence in 1971 when its member hijacked an Indian Airlines plane flying from Srinagar to Jammu. In all, 37 FIRs have been registered against the JKLF by the J&K Police, Gauba said, adding that the outfit was also involved in the kidnapping and killing of Ravindra Mhatre, an Indian diplomat posted in the UK, in 1984. The crime was committed a week later India executed Maqbool Bhat, a JKLF activist, who had been sentenced to death. The Home Secretary also said the security review of the J&K-based separatists would continue. In Frebruary, the government withdrew the security of several separatist leaders in the state following the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force were killed. The Home Secretarys order reads... Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said the Centre had followed the policy of zero tolerance against terrorism and acted strongly against terrorists and in the pursuit of this, it has on Friday declared the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front as an unlawful organisation under the provisions of Section 3(1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act-1967. editorial@tribune.com Dinesh Manhotra Tribune News Service Jammu, March 22 Within minutes of filing his nomination papers from the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat, BJP candidate Jugal Kishore Sharma raked up emotive issues to reap the political benefits in the Hindu majority region of the state. The deportation of Rohingya and the citizenship rights to the West Pakistan refugees will be main issues during the campaign, Jugal Kishore Sharma, the BJP candidate from the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat, said after filing his papers. Like other BJP candidates across the country, Sharma is also banking on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to retain the seat which he had won by a huge margin of 2,57,280 votes in the 2014 elections. He, however, made it a point to highlight the emotive issues after filing his nomination papers. In the last five years, we tried our best to solve the issues granting citizenship rights to the West Pakistan refugees and deportation of Rohingya from Jammu, he said. He vowed to solve the issues permanently after his re-election. Interestingly, the BJP and Congress are shifting the blame on each otherfor illegal settlement of Rohingya in Jammu. While BJP leaders have charged the Congress with allowing Rohingya to live in Jammu, the latter has accused the former with doing politics on the issue. What has the BJP done in the last five years to deport the illegal foreigner settlers? asked Congress leader Raman Bhalla. He said there was anger in the West Pakistan refugees as the BJP had adopted deceitful tactics during its five-year rule and had not solved the humanitarian issue. Sharma shifted the blame on the local administration for creating hurdles in addressing the genuine demands of the refugees. Some elements in the state administration are working as stumbling blocks in disbursing the relief sanctioned by the Centre to the West Pakistan refugees, Bhalla added. He promised to remove all hurdles after the elections. According to a rough estimate, there are 60,000 West Pakistan refugee votes in the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat and about 30,000 votes in the Udhampur-Doda seat so the BJP is trying to mollify the community. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the refugees had supported the BJP with a hope that their issues would be solved by the party as it had repeatedly promised them that it would solve their problems once and for all. Earlier, Jugal Kishore Sharma, accompanied by BJP state president Ravinder Raina, Rajya Sabha member Shamsher Singh Manhas and some former ministers, filed his nomination papers here. Unkept promises During the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had promised to grant the citizenship rights to the West Pakistan refugees. During his visit to Jammu in June 2018, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had announced Rs 5.5 lakh compensation for each of the 5,764 refugee families but the promise has remained only on paper. The BJP had also promised to deport Rohingya. rchopra@tribunemail.com Srinagar, March 23 Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have said that the Centres decision to boycott the Pakistan Day function at its High Commission in Delhi was due to the Lok Sabha polls. India had decided to boycott a reception at the Pakistan High Commission to mark that countrys national day as several separatists leaders from the state had been invited to the event, the External Affairs Ministry said on Friday. On one hand, PM sends greetings to Pak for its national day. On another, many invitees to celebrations held at Pak High Comm were harassed outside by cops. This dichotomy & inconsistency is a well thought out strategy dictated entirely by electoral prospects & domestic politics, PDP president Mufti tweeted. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said while the BJP-led government at the Centre had no problems in sending a representative to Pakistan Day event from 2015 to 2018, this year, the decision to boycott was taken as the elections loomed. The Modi Govt/BJP had no problem sending a Minister in 2015, 16, 17 & 18 yet suddenly in 2019 as an election looms a decision is taken to boycott & then we put officers to dissuade other invitees. To think we used to blame Pakistan for having an India centric campaign! he said in a series of tweets. Abdullah said if Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not sent his greetings to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan, there would have been no confusion about Delhis relations with Islamabad. The Prime Minister has sent a letter to his Pakistani counterpart, greeting people of the neighbouring country on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia, official sources said on Friday. Abdullah latched on to the greetings to target Modi. If only the spooks & other interested players stopping people from attending the Pak National Day event had also stopped PM Modi from sending his greeting to PM Khan we wouldnt look so damn confused about our relations with Pakistan, he said. But then if hes only following custom it is also custom to send a minister & it is NOT custom to plant spooks & pliant journalists to bully invited guests to not attend. Cant pick & choose which customs we like & which we dont, he added. Over the years, Indias representation at the annual event has been at the level of a Union minister. The External Affairs Ministry said no Indian representative would attend similar events in Islamabad as well. PTI pardeepdhull@gmail.com Tiruchirappalli, March 23 After taking their protests to the National Capital to highlight their demands, Tamil Nadu farmers are gearing up for an electoral battle and will file 111 nominations from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is contesting. Tamil Nadu farmers leader P Ayyakannu said on Saturday that 111 farmers from the state will contest against Modi from Varanasi. Ayyakannu, who is also president of the National South Indian Rivers Inter-Linking Farmers Association, said the decision to contest the polls from Uttar Pradesh was to urge the BJP to include in their manifesto that their demands, including profitable prices for farm produce, would be fulfilled. Speaking to PTI, the farmers leader, who spearheaded agitations in Delhi in 2017 for over 100 days, said the moment they assure in their manifesto that our demands will be fulfilled, we will drop our decision to contest against Modi. In the event of that not happening, he said they would go ahead and contest against Modi. The decision to contest polls has the support of farmers everywhere and the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, Ayyakannu said. Asked why they were raising the demand with BJP alone and not other parties like the Congress to include it in their manifestos, he said the BJP was still the ruling party and Modi the Prime Minister. Parties like the DMK and the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam have assured full loan waiver, which is also one of the farmers demands, in their manifestos, he said. We are not against the BJP or our PM Modi. Before assuming power, Modi ji promised fulfilling our demands and assured to double our income. Even today he is our Prime Minister and the BJP is the ruling party and that is why we are making this demand to them. The leader wondered as to what stopped the saffron party from giving an assurance. He said he has already booked train tickets for 300 farmers to go to Varanasi. Farmers from districts, including Tiruvannamalai and Tiruchirappalli, will reach Varanasi, he said. The BJP-led government at the Centre had promised to fulfil their demands, including profitable prices for farm produce, loan waiver from all banks including nationalised, and cooperative and Rs 5,000 pension for farmers over 60, Ayyakannu said. At the least, let the lone BJP MP from Tamil Nadu Pon Radhakrishnan commit that our promises will be honoured in the manifesto, we may think about reconsidering our decision, he said. In November 2018, farmers led by Ayyakannu had gone to Delhi with two skulls, to take part in a kisan rally, saying it belonged to their colleagues who had allegedly committed suicide over debt. PTI monicakchauhan@gmail.com New Delhi, March 23 The BJP on Saturday cited the rise in Congress president Rahul Gandhi's income between 2004 and 2014 to question its source, claiming he had no ostensible source of income. There was no immediate response from the Congress. BJP leader and Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told the media that Gandhi's income had risen from over Rs 55 lakh in 2004 to Rs 9 crore in 2014 as per his election affidavits, and asked how can a mere MP witness such a jump in income. In his election affidavit in 2004, his income was Rs 55,38,123 while in 2009, it rose to Rs 2 crore and in 2014 it rose to Rs 9 crore. We know how much an MP earns. We want to ask what is this Rahul Gandhi model of development without an ostensible source of income, he said. He also questioned Gandhi whether he had bought two properties from Unitech which was linked to the 2G spectrum allocation scam. PTI monicakchauhan@gmail.com Itanagar, March 23 The Mukto Assembly seat in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, currently held by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, is set to witness a triangular fight after a gap of 20 years. Since 1999, the MLAs in the constituency, along the India-China border, has been elected without a contest. The Congress has fielded Thupten Kunphen from the seat Lama Lobsang Gyatso this time, while the Janata Dal (Secular) nominated 39-year- old Buddhist monk. Elections to the 60 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh will be held concurrently on April 11. Gyatso, who has been leading movements against mega dam projects in Tawang, will be taking on Khandu, who won unopposed from the seat in 2014 Assembly polls as well 2011 by-election, necessitated by his father and former CM Dorjee Khandu's death in a helicopter crash. Dorjee Khandu, who had contested and won Mukto seat since 1990, had locked horns with Janata Dal candidate Rimchem Dorjee in 1995. Barring the 1995 elections, the seat, dominated by the Monpa community, had been loyal to the Khandu family, which had set the ball rolling for hydroelectric power projects in the district over the years. Gyatso, who has been associated with the Anna Hazare movement against corruption said, "In 2014, too, I had wanted to contest the election, but could not. This year I have planned and decided to contest from the constituency to make people aware about their choices." In April 2016, he was arrested for his opposition to two proposed mega dams in the district. On May 2 the same year, the police opened fire on protesters demanding his release, killing two monks. The 39-year-old monk claimed that the Khandu family has "sold lies" to the people of the district, while promising them upgraded infrastructure. "There has been lot of protests and unrest among the people over dam construction. We have moved several platforms against the projects, which are 'anti-people'. In spite of our legal battle and democratic movements, we have not been able to close the chapter. "I live life like a fugitive, often having to move in disguise to avoid those who have opposed our protests against the dam projects, which have been cleared without abiding by the environmental norms," Gyatso added. PTI amansharma@tribunemail.com New Delhi, March 23 The Congress on Saturday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending best wishes to Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the eve of the countrys National Day, alleging that he had been on good terms with the Pakistani establishment even earlier. Remember Modiji...you embraced (then Pakistani premier) Nawaz Sharif, called him to your inauguration and showed what a change it would be. It was you who shared a birthday bash, gave him gifts. While our PM never visited Pakistan, you gave him gifts and then you are teaching us lessons on Pakistan, senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal asked at a press conference. Official sources said Friday that Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting the people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modis message to Khan came in the midst of a severe strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the Pulwama attack and the subsequent air strikes by India on a JeM terror camp in Pakistans Balakot. Significantly, India Friday boycotted a reception at the Pakistan High Commission here to mark the National Day, objecting to invites extended to several separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir for the event. The Congress leader said soldiers were being killed everyday. He claimed the number of security personnel killed in terrorist attacks was rising ever since the Modi dispensation assumed office, citing strikes in Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Uri and Pulwama. More than 60 security personnel have been martyred since the Pulwama attack. Everyday our soldiers are martyred. Why is the chowkidar asleep during these terror attacks, asked Sibal. He also said it was unfortunate that the many leader of thieves are telling us now that they are guards. Forty CRPF jawans were killed in the Pulwama terror attack in February. Sibal also took a dig at the BJP for calling themselves chowkidars (watchmen) of the nation, claiming the prime minister was only protecting the rich. He claimed that farmers, soldiers, Dalits and minorities were dying and small businesses had been ruined under the watch of the chowkidar. Sibal said as many as 6,351 farmers committed suicide in 2016 while protests by farmers increased from 628 in 2014 to 4,837 in 2016. As many as 52 per cent of farming families are indebted today with an average outstanding loan of Rs 1 lakh. From July to December 2018, the minimum support price (MSP) increase merely covered the input cost and was way below the Swaminathan Commission recommendations, he said. He claimed that between 2010 and January 2019, 123 cases of cow-related violence were reported with over 50 per cent victims and 78 per cent of those killed in these incidents being Muslims. Ninety-eight per cent of these crimes took place after 2014 and in 14 states ruled by the Bharatiya Janata Party, he claimed. Quoting an Amnesty International report, he said that in 2018, there were 218 hate crimes, of which 192 were against Dalits and minorities. He also raised the issue of demonetisation and how people allegedly suffered due to it. Thousands of small businesses had to close down, sowing of crops was delayed and demand collapsed which impacted farmers income. The GDP took a hit of close to 2 per cent in the quarter of demonetisation while 15 lakh jobs were lost in the first four months after demonetisation, he said. Modi ji did chowkidari for Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi, Vijay Mallaya, Smriti Irani over her university degree and for himself over Rafale documents. He also turned chowkidar for those accused of violence, he alleged. PTI shalender@tribune.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, March 22 Media reports on alleged diary entries bearing former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yedyurappas signatures triggered a fresh political row today with the Congress seeking a Lokpal probe into the issue and the BJP trashing the entire matter as a web of lies. After Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala cited 2009 diary entries to allege that top BJP leaders from PM Narendra Modi down to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley received illegal money and the matter needed to be investigated, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Congress was desperate and had lost its balance. BS Yedyurappa was the CM of Karnataka between 2008 and 2011. The diary notings in question relate to Rs 1,800-crore payoffs to BJP central committee and party leaders. The Income Tax Department recovered these diary in raids in 2017, but did nothing based on its contents. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley perhaps did not grant the go-ahead. The diary contents show that PM Modi and other top BJP leaders received money. A case of corruption is prima facie made out. It is a fit case to be investigated as the first test case to find out the truth. Everyone will know chowkidar chor hai. The question is whether the watchman is ready to face the probe, Surjewala said. The BJP fielded Prasad to refute all allegations. Prasad cited documents to say that on August 2, 2014, raids were conducted on the premises of Karnataka Congress strongman DK Sivakumar, who handed over loose sheets of papers to the raiding officers. When Sivakumar was asked to prove the veracity of the loose sheets, he could not. The same loose sheets were flashed in the Congress press conference. Will Congress now base its entire politics on falsehoods and representations? Prasad said. After Congress drew linkages to former head of Central Board of Direct Taxes Sunil Chandra being recently appointed the Election Commissioner, the CBDT today issued a statement saying Search and action under Section 132 of the Income Tax Act (1961) was carried out on DK Shivakumar and his group on August 2, 2017, by the IT Investigation Directorate of Karnataka and Goa. A large body of evidence of incriminating material was found against Sivakumar and his firm. Cong releases 7th list of 35 LS candidates rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, March 23 A Delhi court has ordered attachment of liquor baron Vijay Mallyas properties in Bengaluru in a case relating to FERA violations. Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Deepak Sherawat issued fresh directions after the Bengaluru police, through Enforcement Directorates special public prosecutor NK Matta and advocate Samvedna Verma, sought more time to execute its earlier order in this regard. The court directed the state police to attach the properties by July 10, the next date of hearing. The Bengaluru police had earlier informed the court that it had identified 159 properties belonging to Mallya, but had not been able to attach any of them. Mallya was declared a proclaimed offender by the court on January 4 last year for evading its summons in the case. The court had on May 8 last year directed the attachment of Mallyas properties in the case through the Bengaluru police commissioner and sought a report on it. It had declared Mallya a proclaimed offender for evading summons in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FERA) violation case after noting that he had failed to appear despite repeated summonses. It had on April 12, 2017 issued an open-ended non-bailable warrant (NBW) against the liquor baron. Unlike a non-bailable warrant, an open-ended NBW does not carry a time limit for execution. PTI shalender@tribune.com Manas Dasgupta Ahmedabad, March 22 BJP workers in Gujarat broke into celebrations as soon as party president Amit Shahs candidature was announced for the Gandhinagar constituency last night. The decision means the end of the political road for party veteran LK Advani. Party sources admitted that Advani was not consulted and the decision to drop him was taken by the central parliamentary board headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah. Advani had been contesting successfully from Gandhinagar since 1991. He shifted to Gandhinagar after the massive success of his Ram Rathyatra from Somnath to Ayodhya which, however, was terminated with his arrest in Bihar. The yatra by then had rejuvenated the BJP and brought to the political fore young RSS pracharak Modi, who was picked by Advani as one of the organisers of the yatra. The success of the yatra helped Modi to move from the RSS to the Gujarat unit of the BJP. In 1995, when the BJP for the first time won a clear majority in the Assembly and formed a ministry under Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel, Modi was hand-picked by Patel and Advani to act as the go-between the organisational and the executive wings of the party. Modi was also instrumental in leaving behind Keshubhai Patel and Shankarsinh Vaghela who built the BJP from scratches to become a power to reckon with in the state in just nine years and partner in a coalition government in the state in 1989. As Vaghela later complained, excessive interference by the coordinator in the administrative affairs of the Patel government became a flash point for Vaghela to revolt against his own government. Advani adopted a middle line and agreed to take Modi with him to Delhi. In the 1998 Assembly elections, the BJP returned with a clear majority paving the way for Keshubhai Patel to become the CM second time. Modi got his opportunity when the BJP started losing popularity following the Patel governments alleged failure to handle the 2001 killer earthquake. He was sent by the central leadership in October, 2001, to replace Patel as the CM. ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM TNS & Agencies Patna, March 22 The Opposition mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) in Bihar today announced its seat-sharing formula, under which the RJD will contest 20 of the 40 Lok Sabha seats and the Congress nine, leaving the remaining share for smaller allies. While former Union minister Upendra Kushwahas Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) will field candidates for five seats, Jitan Ram Manjhis HAM(S) and Mukesh Sahnis Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP) will contest three seats each. The Lalu Prasad-led RJD will give one seat out of its quota of 20 to the Communist Party of India-Marxist Leninist (CPI-ML). No seats have been left for the CPI and CPM, making it clear that former JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar, who is contesting from Begusarai, will not be supported by the alliance. The Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD), formed by former JD-U chief and NDA convener Sharad Yadav, will contest from Madhepura on the RJD symbol and merge with Lalus party after the polls. Bihar is going to the polls in all seven phases. The first phase is scheduled for April 11, for which nominations will be filed till March 25. The four constituencies going to the polls in the first phase will see HAM contesting on Gaya and Aurangabad seats, the RJD on Nawada and the RLSP on Jamui. In 2014, the NDA won 31 seats, of which the BJP alone bagged 22. The JD-U contested alone then and won only two seats. The RJD won four seats, the Congress two and NCP 1. But NCPs Tariq Anwar later rejoined the Congress. CPI: unfortunate New Delhi: CPI general secretary Sudhakar Reddy said the failure of the grand alliance to accommodate the Left parties was unfortunate and did not bode well for the Opposition as a whole in the bigger scheme of creating an anti-BJP front. The partys state leadership is scheduled to meet on March 24 to decide on its future course of action. PTI ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM New Delhi, March 22 The Delhi Police have arrested a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) operative suspected to be involved in the Pulwama terror attack conspiracy. The accused, Sajjad Ahmad Khan, a close aide of Pulwama mastermind Mudasir Khan, had been living in Delhi posing as a shawl vendor. The JeM had sent Sajjad to the capital to carry out reconnaissance of key targets and set up a sleeper cell. He was tasked with radicalising and recruiting youths from UP and other states, providing them with weapons training, explosives and field craft, raising funds and collecting weapons, said DCP (Special Cell) PS Kushwah. A central intelligence agency had alerted the police about a JeM operative having shifted to Delhi to set up a sleeper cell, the DCP said. On March 21, the police had received information that a JeM operative was slated to visit the Lal Quila red light area. A team was deployed and Sajjad (27), a resident of Trals Handoora village in Pulwama district of J&K was arrested, he said. Sajjad and his two brothers were engaged in stone-pelting incidents in the Valley. In February 2015, Sajjads brother Ishfaq was arrested under the Public Safety Act for stone-pelting and stayed at a Srinagar jail for nine months. TNS rchopra@tribunemail.com Chennai, March 23 The Madras High Court has set aside the election of ruling AIADMK candidate AK Bose, who died last year, in a 2016 by-election, holding that there was violation of norms in affixing of then party chief Jayalalithaas thumb impression on his nomination papers. The court also came down heavily on the Election Commission observing that it had acted as the AIADMKs mouthpiece and the returning officer of the constituency too did not follow the election laws and had accepted the nomination, knowing full well that it was materially defective. Justice P Velmurugan gave the verdict on Friday allowing the election petition filed by P Saravanan, the losing DMK candidate in Thiruparankundram constituency. He had challenged the victory of Bose in the November 2016 assembly bypoll on the grounds that the thumb impression of Jayalalithaa was not genuine. At the time of filing of the nomination papers for the bypoll, Jayalalithaa, also chief minister of Tamil Nadu then, was hospitalised for various complications. She died in December 2016. Quoting Supreme Court judgments and provisions of the Representation of People Act, the judge said affixing the thumb impression in Form A and B (by which a party authorises the candidature of its nominee) was generally not permissible under law. The Election Commission which had allowed it due to the medical condition of Jayalalithaa should have specified that the thumb impression be obtained in the presence of an officer belonging to an administrative service not below the rank of sub-divisional officer, he said. Also, no medical proof was attached vouching for the illness of Jayalalithaa before the thumb impression was obtained and none of the witnesses had stated about her physical and mental status, the judge said. He said both the Commission as well as the state Chief Electoral Officer had not taken any effective steps to ascertain the physical and mental status of Jayalalitha. Rapping the EC, the judge said the Commission had instead permitted attestation of the thumb impression by a medical officer, which is contrary to the election laws laid down by the Supreme Court. The Election Commission, being an independent body, it is very unfortunate; it was acting as mouthpiece of ruling party. Even, in evidence, no one has stated that they have seen Jayalalitha and no one stated about the treatment, which had been given to her, the judge said, adding that since the former chief minister had died, there was no proof that she was in a conscious state of mind at that time. At least, if she was alive, the court could have extracted truth regarding the thumb impression, he said. The judge also faulted Balaji who was allowed to attest the thumb impression of Jayalalithaa, saying it was not done in the presence of the Returning Officer or the Presiding Officer or such other officer specified by the EC. Also, the attestation should have been videographed and produced before the Returning Officer and before this court. In the absence of any documents showing that Jayalalithaa was in a conscious state and in view of the non-compliance of mandatory provisions, the court was of the view that the Forms A & B are defective and materially affected, the judge said. This court is of the considered view that the Forms A & B are found defective as far as clause 13(c), (d) and (e) of the Election Symbols Reservation and Allotment Order, 1963, the judge held and set aside the election of Bose. With the judge delivering the verdict in the election petition, the decks have been cleared for holding a by-election in the Thiruparankundram constituency. The EC, while scheduling by-elections to 18 vacant assembly seats in Tamil Nadu along with the Lok Sabha polls, had withheld polls in three other segments, including Thiruparankundram, citing pendency of election petitions. PTI amansharma@tribunemail.com Chanchal (West Bengal), March 23 Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday launched a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of running the entire state according to her whims. Bengal is being run by just one person. She neither talks to anyone nor takes anybodys suggestion. She does whatever she feels like, Gandhi said while addressing a rally in this town in Malda district, about 385 km north of Kolkata. Does Bengal not have any voice? Is it not important for Bengal to have its own voice? Should one person be allowed to run an entire state? he asked. Gandhi also accused Banerjee of having done nothing for the states people. Nothing has been done for the farmers, youths here. Unemployment is everywhere. Only Mamata jis speeches go on all day long. Tell me what has she (Banerjee) done for you? Has she revoked the taxes for the farmers? Has she given employment to the youths or helped out the small businessmen? he said while the massive crowd responded with a resounding No. Alleging that the Congress activists face relentless attacks from goons of Bengals ruling Trinamool Congress every day, Gandhi said the situation will soon change. Congress activists are throttled and beaten up every day... I want to congratulate all our party activists who fight for the politics of principle. I want to tell them to keep fighting for Congress and its ideology. Do not be afraid. I am with you. (We will) form government in Delhi. Then you will see what happens, he said. He thanked the people of Malda, a traditional Congress bastion, for always standing by his party and assured he will try to fulfil all their wishes. I want to thank you because you have always stood with Congress. You have always given us love and support no matter what the condition of the party is. I will not forget this in my entire life. I will remember this when our party forms the government in Delhi. I will fulfil all your needs. Be it farmers issue, issues with jobs or land, I will try to help you out so long I am alive. Our relation is of love, not of politics, he said. Comparing the Banerjee government with the erstwhile Left Front regime in the state, Gandhi said both have failed to take Bengal on the path of development and claimed that the state cant progress until the Congress forms the government here. You have seen the rule of CPI-M for years. They could not bring development. Then you chose Mamata Banerjee. But the situation in Bengal is the same. The atrocities that used to happen during the CPI-M rule are still happening under Mamata ji, he alleged. We will try our best to form a Congress government in Bengal. I promise our party activists that Congress will keep fighting to form a Congress government in the state, he added. Gandhi also indirectly targeted Malda North MP Mausam Benazir Noor, who has crossed over from the Congress to the Trinamool, and is now the latters candidate from the same constituency, saying she had deceived the people. She has hoodwinked you by leaving the party under pressure. This is a Congress bastion, and you make her realise that by deceiving the people, one cannot work in Bengal, he said, without taking her name. IANS shalender@tribune.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, March 22 Prime Minister Narendra Modi today slammed the Congress and Samajwadi Party after their leaders questioned the Indian response to February 14 Pulwama terror attack and said people will never forgive the outfits that heap insults on the armed forces again and again. PM Modi was responding to two statements one made by Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda and the other by SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav. Pitroda, like Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu, in an interview today said an entire nation couldnt be blamed for the action of few terrorists and sending planes to attack in another country is not the right approach. Sidhu had earlier said Pakistan as a country could not be blamed for the actions of few terrorists. Recalling the Mumbai attacks, Pitroda said: Eight people come and do something, you dont jump on entire nation (read Pakistan). Its naive to assume that just because some people came here and attacked, every citizen of that nation is to be blamed. I dont believe in that way. While the Congress distanced itself from the remarks, with party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala saying: The Congress has nothing to do with the personal opinion of one individual. The fact is when the watchman is caught stealing, he uses anything he gets to divert national attention. The PM earlier attacked Pitroda on Twitter, saying: Loyal courtier of Congress royal dynasty admits what the nation already knew Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror. This is a New India we will answer terrorists in a language they understand and with interest! Opposition insults our forces time and again. I appeal to my fellow Indians to question Opposition leaders on their statements. Tell them 130 crore Indians will not forgive or forget the Opposition for their antics. India stands firmly with our Forces. #JantaMaafNahiKaregi. Reacting to Yadavs comment that Pulwama attack was stage-managed, PM said: The Opposition is the natural habitat of terror apologists and questioners of our armed forces. This statement by a senior leader like Ram Gopal-ji insults all those who have given their lives in protecting Kashmir. Attacks happen all the time These (attacks) happen all the time. Attack happened in Mumbai also and we could have then reacted and just sent our planes but that is not right approach. Thats not how you deal with world. Sam Pitroda, Cong leader Demeaning armed forces The most trusted adviser and guide of the Congress president has kick-started the Pakistan National Day celebrations on behalf of the Congress, ironically by demeaning Indias armed forces. Shame! Narendra Modi, PM shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com Coimbatore, March 23 The election flying squad on Saturday seized foreign currencies amounting to Rs 43.44 lakh from a motorcyclist here, and Rs 1.83 crore from a van in Salem, official sources said. During a vehicle-check in the area of Singanallur assembly constituency in Coimbatore, the squad stopped the two-wheeler of Jayaraman, and found in it 35,000 USD (Rs 24.29 lakh), Singapore dollars 22,000 (Rs 11.31 lakh) and 10,000 Euros (Rs 7.84 lakh), they said. The currencies were handed over to the income tax authorities, and Jayaraman, working in a private firm and on his way to airport, produced some documents which were being verified, the sources said. Meanwhile in Salem, a flying squad seized Rs 1.83 crore from a van that was to be deposited in an ATM. Since there were no relevant documents produced by the occupants of the vehicle, the money was handed over to the sub-treasury, the sources said. PTI pardeepdhull@gmail.com Purnea (Bihar), March 23 Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday took potshots at Prime Minister Narendra Modis Main Bhi Chowkidar campaign, calling him a gatekeeper who stood guard for the wealth of the rich. Modi and his partymen have launched the Main Bhi Chowkidar (I too am a watchman) campaign to blunt the Oppositions, especially the Congresss, chowkidar chor hai (watchman is a thief) slogan. What type of people employ chowkidars outside their homes? Have you seen a chowkidar deployed at the gates of a common mans house? Gandhi asked the gathering here. Addressing his maiden rally in Bihar upon the announcement of the Lok Sabha polls, Gandhi said Modi treated and addressed Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and others like them as bhai while he calls common people like you as only mitron (friends). He made promises of Rs 15 lakh into the accounts of all the poor, two crore jobs in five years and waiver of loans to the farmers. Did he ever tell you why he failed to deliver on these? Has he done anything for the benefit of farmers, workers and the youth? Gandhi asked. The Congress, on the other hand, promised loan waiver for farmers and did so within a fortnight of its governments being formed in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, he claimed. He also said if the Congress-led alliance came to power in the state, it will draw a minimum income line and a sum of money will be automatically deposited into the accounts of those who were below this line. Referring to demonetisation, the Congress president said if its stated purpose was eradication of black money, why were the common people made to undergo such great difficulties. Why the savings of women made over the years for difficult times were taken away from them in the name of demonetisation? If this government can waive loans worth Rs 3.5 lakh crore of the rich, why can he not provide much-needed relief to farmers? Gandhi asked. PTI harinder@tribunemail.com Sukhpal Khaira inherited politics. His father Sukhjinder Singh was an Akali leader and became Education Minister but died a Congressman. Khaira started his political career as a panchayat member from Ramgarh village in Kapurthala in 1992, but rose to fame when he defeated Akali giant Bibi Jagir Kaur from Bholath in the 2007 Assembly elections. In 2017, he was elected as an AAP candidate. In an interview with The Tribune reporter Vishav Bharti, he says that he formed Punjab Ekta Party (PEP) last year with an aim to give the voters a genuine regional party. Excerpts: You are contesting from Bathinda. By dividing anti-Akali votes, will it not help Harsimrat Kaur Badal against whom you say is the main battle? It is a misconception being propagated by my opponents like Bhagwant Mann. Why did he go to Jalalabad himself? To ensure Sukhbir Badals victory? I feel that Punjabs politics is being controlled by two big families Badal family and Captain Amarinders family. And both these families need to be challenged. Thats what I want to do by contesting from Bathinda. It is a big decision of my life. It can finish my career also. I may win or lose, but Punjab must get rid of the Badal family. In Bathinda, Dera Sacha Sauda yields a lot of influence. Will you approach them for votes? The question doesnt even arise. Instead of going to the dera, I will go for issue-based politics which is going to be decisive in this poll. There is a common view that you are being funded by anti-AAP forces. It is a cock and bull story. Both Badal and Amarinder Singh are on the same page when it comes to hating Sukhpal Khaira. The common perception is that the contest is going to be between the Akalis and Congress? Will your alliance not play spoilsport? You will see the reality once the campaign builds up. It is an argument being fuelled by those who want only Badal and Captain families to rule the state. Just before the election in Pakistan, similar views were expressed that only Sharif and Bhutto families can rule Pakistan. You can see today that Imran Khan stands tall there. Punjab needs a third alternative and that is what we are trying to give. What is the future of PEP? After the crushing defeat of Shiromani Akali Dal, there is a huge vacuum for a genuine regional political party in Punjab. SAD got 26 per cent votes in 2014 and that was before the sacrilege incidents. It will lose more votes in this election. There is strong anti-incumbency against the Congress. We will get a major share from their votes as well. So, we are hoping that this election will be a beginning for us. ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Aman Sood Tribune News Service Patiala, March 22 Five youths, employed with a private company for loading cash in ATMs, hoodwinked banks and siphoned money for well over two years before being nabbed today. They had even planned to fund at least two candidates from Patiala. The modus operandi was simple. Aware that the CCTVs did not work on inverters, they would withdraw cash whenever there was a power outage. They executed more than 19 thefts in this fashion. Before demonetisation, while employed with Cash Management System, Mumbai, they would not enter the entire amount in ATMs. Instead, they would give out loans or use the cash themselves. Before the bank audit, they would siphon the amount from another ATM and deposit the same in the ATM to be audited, explained Patiala SSP Mandeep Singh Sidhu. Rajinder Singh, Balwinder Singh, Dharampal, Deepak Rai and Deepak Tiwari were arrested with Rs 5.16 lakh in cash and tools after an ATM was stolen on March 17 and an FIR lodged. Their interrogation revealed that they began operations in mid-2016. Before demonetisation, they pocketed Rs 20 lakh and divided the same among themselves. Post demonetisation in November 2016, they borrowed money from private lenders and deposited the cash in all 24 ATMs in Patiala that they handled. Within three months, they returned the cash they had borrowed. Thereafter, they did not deposit the entire cash in any ATM. Whenever an audit team was to arrive, they were intimated by the banks. They would quickly reload the amount in the machine to avoid being caught, said Deputy Superintendent of Police Yogesh Sharma. Director General of Police P Dinkar Gupta has announced Rs 50,000 for the police team that uncovered the fraud. HOW THEY WERE CAUGHT editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, March 22 The Punjab governments move to recruit more than 450 stenotypists in the state has hit a roadblock. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed the state not to issue appointment letters in case these were yet to be given out. In case, appointment letters have not yet been issued pursuant to the selection process, issuance thereof shall remain stayed, Justice Rajan Gupta ruled. The Bench also set a 10-day deadline for the government to seek instructions from the state Chief Secretary before specifying whether 10 per cent cap on reservation had been violated during recruitment process in any of its departments or services. The time limit and order by Justice Gupta came on a petition by Sarabpreet Kaur and other petitioners. Describing themselves as general category candidates, they had challenged the process for selecting steno-typists in the state. Appearing before Justice Guptas Bench, their counsel submitted that selection was made in gross violation of the reservation policy. Initially, 421 posts were advertised, out of which 197 were for general category. As reservation exceeded 50 per cent, the petitioners represented to the authorities. Thereafter, the posts were increased. Out of the total, 215 were shown as general category. Even in this case the reservation exceeded 50 per cent. At the time of declaration of result, the petitioners noticed that the state had unilaterally increased the posts to 471, out of which only 218 were left for the general category. He added that the minimum number of posts for the general category ought to have been 235.5, in view of bar on reservation beyond 50 per cent laid down by the apex court. Putting the state on notice, Justice Gupta accepted Punjab Additional Advocate-General Anu Chatraths prayer for time to address the court. editorial@tribune.com Perneet Singh Tribune News Service Bathinda, March 22 Union Food Processing Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal today asked the Congress government not to play politics with the future of the youth by derailing the launch of AIIMS, Bathinda, by stalling initiation of classes of its first batch of MBBS students at the Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot. However, Punjab Health Minister Brahm Mohindra strongly denied her charge and instead accused her of politicising the issue. Releasing a copy of the letter written by the Union Health Ministry to the PGI, Chandigarh, Harsimrat said, Playing politics with the future of our youth simply to deny me credit for the start of this prestigious project is a sin. I strongly condemn it and ask the Congress government to put an end to its politics of lies and deceit and set up the transit campus of AIIMS, Bathinda, at Baba Farid University, Faridkot, as finalised by the PGI, Chandigarh, as well as the Union Health Ministry, immediately. She said the letter made it clear that it was the responsibility of the PGI, Chandigarh, as the mentor body of AIIMS, Bathinda, to finalise the location of its transit campus. She said the letter also asked the PGI, Chandigarh, to take necessary action on priority in consultation with the Punjab government to make the campus functional. The minister said it was strange that despite this evidence on record, the Congress government and its Health Minister were denying these developments. She said such politicisation of a pious cause could endanger the very existence of the transit campus and could also result in cancellation of the seats, which had been approved and were to be filled this year. Asking the Congress government to announce establishment of the AIIMS transit campus at Faridkot immediately, Harsimrat said, It is clear that you have been kept abreast of all details, including the fact that the Union Health Ministry has accepted the recommendations of the expert committee of the PGI, Chandigarh, to start the first batch of MBBS classes (2019-20) for AIIMS, Bathinda, from Baba Farid University, Faridkot. Feigning ignorance of the same as has been done by its Health Minister indicates that the government wants to delay the establishment of the transit campus. This does not behove an elected government. It should not discriminate against its youth by denying them the right to initiate their studies at AIIMS, Bathinda. On the other hand, Punjab Health Minister Brahm Mohindra said, The proverb, Little or half-baked knowledge is always dangerous, goes well on Harsimrat Kaur Badal who has issued an irresponsible statement without checking the facts and figures. Countering her statement, Mohindra said, We have received no official communication either from the PGI or the Union Health Ministry regarding starting the transit campus of AIIMS, Bathinda, at Baba Farid University, Faridkot. The moment the state government gets a letter from the PGI, it will readily accept the Union government decision, which is in larger interest of students of Punjab. He appealed to the Union minister to stop playing politics on such sensitive issues involving the future of Punjabs youth. editorial@tribune.com Saurabh Malik Tribune News Service Chandigarh, March 22 Flooded with petitions filed by employees seeking extension beyond the age of superannuation following amendment to the Service Rules, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has not only questioned the rationale behind the move but also given the state a weeks time to address the Bench on the issue after seeking instructions from the state Chief Secretary. The Bench has also asked the state to specify whether the youth in the state were being deprived of the opportunity of government service due to the amendment carried out in the Punjab Civil Service Rules, 2012. The court queries came after Justice Rajan Gupta of the High Court expanded the scope of a petition filed against the state and other respondents by an employee, Sharanjit Kaur. Schedule to retire on April 30 upon attaining the age of superannuation, she was seeking extension in service on the basis of instructions dated October 8, 2018. On an average, an employee or civil servant gets Rs 30 lakh as gratuity and other benefits upon retirement. Estimates suggest approximately Rs 4,500 crore may be required to fund the retirement benefits to employees superannuating if two-year extension in service policy was scrapped. As the case came up for hearing, her counsel told Justice Guptas Bench that decision had not been taken on her plea for extension. It needs to be noticed that this court has been flooded with cases where the employees have been seeking extension beyond the age of superannuation in view of the amendment carried out in the Punjab Civil Service Rules, 2012, and the instructions issued there under, Justice Gupta asserted. The Bench then asked the state counsel to specify the objective sought to be achieved by such amendment and whether it would result in denial of employment opportunities to the younger generation particularly in government sector. The counsel was also asked to specify the factors that weighed with the government while taking such a sweeping decision. In response to the queries, the state counsel submitted that she required a weeks time to seek instructions from the state Chief Secretary and apprise the court. The case will now come up for further hearing in first week of April. The HC has already made it clear that granting extension in service to an employee after the age of superannuation was the employers prerogative. An employee could be granted extension in service for a year, but denied the same for second year. editorial@tribune.com Ravi Dhaliwal Tribune News Service Gurdaspur, March 22 Kavita Khanna and actor Akshaye Khanna, wife and son of former MP Vinod Khanna, remain frontrunners even as many an eyebrow was raised following the exclusion of Mumbai-based businessman Swaran Salaria by the BJP state election committee (SEC) in its list of probable candidates for the Gurdaspur parliamentary seat. The list has been forwarded to the central election committee (CEC) headed by Amit Shah for the final decision. The SEC has also recommended former Cabinet minister Master Mohan Lal, party state vice-president Narendra Parmar and former state president and Pathankot MLA Ashwani Sharma. Punjab party chief Shwait Malik and Punjab incharge Capt Abhimanyu were among those present when the SEC shortlisted the names. Salarias omission has come as a surprise for political observers. He had financed Narendra Modis January 3 rally in Gurdaspur and it was expected that even if he did not get the nomination, he would at least remain in the fray till the last moment. In the 2014 elections, the CEC was forced to put on hold the name of its candidate from the Gurdaspur seat because of pressure exerted on it by senior leaders and yoga leader Ramdev to name Salaria as the nominee. So much so, of all seats the BJP contested from, nomination from Gurdaspur was the last one to be announced. The party chose Vinod Khanna who defeated Partap Singh Bajwa to be elected for the fourth time. In the 2017 bypoll, Salaria was again in contention. While he had the backing of Ramdev, Kavita Khanna was supported by spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. This time, too, she has his backing. Insiders claim that ever since the Supreme Court nominated him as one of the three mediators to solve the Ayodhya issue, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has become very influential in BJP circles. editorial@tribune.com Deepkamal Kaur Tribune News Service Jalandhar, March 22 The upcoming Lok Sabha polls are going to be much different from 2014 in a number of ways. The difference becomes stark when it is about the involvement of NRIs in electioneering. This time NRIs have become silent on social media unlike the hullabaloo that they had created last time supporting their favourite candidates and parties. No politician has gone abroad and shared any picture of meeting NRIs over fund raiser dinners. They are not even making any calls, sharing any videos or sending WhatsApp messages to voters in Punjab to favour any party or candidate. Leave aside giving any dollar boost or moral support, they now seem to be least interested about the election scenario back home. Further, no party is talking about its overseas units or their activities this time. A cross-section of NRIs whom The Tribune talked to hinted that the unfulfilled dreams shown by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and no combined third front emerging this time were the primary reason that keeps them away. They also opined that the incidents of sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib and killings of youth in police firing and emergence of the alleged link of then ruling Akali Dal in the episode too had turned them away. They shared that only candidates who had NRI support were Punjab Ekta Party leaders Sukhpal Khaira contesting from Bathinda and Paramjit Kaur Khalra from Khadoor Sahib. New York-based hotelier and prominent NRI Manjit Singh Dasuya, who had earlier joined AAP, said, NRIs are clearly not interested in any political development back home. They showed enthusiasm in 2014 as they had then believed in the dreams shown to them by the AAP of bringing in a revolutionary change in the country and putting an end to corruption. Now they have seen where AAP is, especially in Punjab, and how the promises shown to them have fallen flat. So, now they are completely disillusioned and do not want to waste any energy, time and resources on elections here. Prior to joining AAP, Dasuya had for five years been the president of SAD Overseas unit of US. Former NRI Sabha president Pritam Singh Narangpuri too believes that the failure of the expectations of the NRIs of bringing in a change in the system is what makes them completely indifferent. The NRIs were thinking of AAP as a powerful alternative. But they saw it losing steam so fast. If at all they are supporting any candidate today, it is because of their personal relations. All candidates have NRI family members or close friends. It is just the NRIs who are in immediate, close circles, who are helping political leaders at the moment. A researcher on NRIs, Satnam Chana, said, NRIs da tan moh hi bhang ho chukya hai. Hun oh chheti edar munh vi nhi karange (NRIs have lost their love for the state. They will not even turn this way fast). singhking99@yahoo.com Sarika Sharma On April 8, 1931, a meeting chaired by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in Amritsar declared that a mela would be held at the spot of cremation of Bhagat Singh and his comrades and that this would be an annual affair. The mela is held even today at the National Martyrs Memorial at Hussainiwala. Thirty-two years later, his ancestral house in Khatkar Kalan materialised as a memorial site in 1963. Another 45 years later, a statue of him and his comrades was to come up in the grounds of the Lok Sabha, the same building Bhagat Singh had bombed in 1929. It is the relevance of such monumental renditions that British scholar Chris Moffat explores in his book, Indias Revolutionary Inheritance: Politics and the Promise of Bhagat Singh. Right from the first memorial, debate has surrounded memorialisation. Moffat writes that entreated by a newly founded Martyrs Memorial Committee to offer his support for a monument soon after the Lahore executions of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, Mahatma Gandhi immediately distanced himself from the proposal based precisely on an anxiety over the sites declarative potential. In a letter to nationalist campaigner Mehta Anand Kishore, the Mahatma wrote: ...a memorial erected in honour of anybody undoubtedly means that the memorialists would copy the deeds of those in whose memory they erect the memorial. It is also an invitation to posterity to copy such deeds. I am therefore unable to identify myself in any way with the memorial. Moffat says in Gandhis vision, it is as if the monument, by its very existence, would carry on the work of the revolutionaries, giving a new life and legitimising their message. The land in Khatkar Kalan had always been kept by the family to preserve Bhagat Singhs memories and a statue was installed in 1963 after collecting donations from public. Official recognition for the place, however, came when the then home minister Giani Zail Singh erected a bigger bronze statue in the 1970s. In 1980, he also supported the transformation of the Yuvak Kendra hall, a common space for assembly, into the state-funded Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh Museum. The third major tribute, the statue in Lok Sabha, has been mired in controversy. It was a result of a long campaign spearheaded by the then Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, MS Gill, and a parallel plea from CPI (M) MP Mohd Salim. it was condemned by leftist commentators and members of the revolutionarys family for its presentation of the martyr as a portly Sikh in turban, instead of the more familiar figuration of a young man in trilby hat. Moffat says it was accepted as a mistake by the celebrated Parliament sculptor Ram Suthar or derided at worst as a purposeful attempt to subsume a radical, atheist revolutionary into a communal identity. Salim boycotted the unveiling and Urdu poet Fahmida Riaz lamented in Bhagat Singh ki Moorat: There is news from Delhi Alas! Alas! What a mess they have made Of Bhagat Singh In the Parliament Square! For sixty years they petitioned The British rejected him But you, our own government Erect his statue in the Parliament Square. At last the government beat its breast and said why not! and erected the statue in the Parliament Square. But when the veil was lifted You discover it is not Bhagat Singh That 24-year-old beautiful lad Nor his young limbs that they could not properly burn On the fateful night when they hanged him. All debates around these monuments seem like efforts to appropriate Bhagat Singhs personality, a search for ones own Bhagat Singh... Post the memorials comes the commemoration. Every year, on March 23, Bhagat Singhs martyrdom day, and September 28, his birth anniversary, these monuments, characterised by solitude all through the year, come alive. Whether it is the launch of political parties or protest marches, these have often been the starting point for many, for decades. Three of the most important sites dedicated to Bhagat Singh in India are located in the north of the country. Move a little further and in Lahore, a handful of activists and leftists have been trying to earn the atheist his due space in a country built on religious lines. Bhagat Singh was born in a village now in Pakistans Faisalabad, lived his political life in Lahore and died there too. Bhagat Singh is recognised by many in Lahore as someone deeply embedded in the cultural and political traditions of this city. He is celebrated by some as a charismatic, local connection to global histories of twentieth century revolution, and by others as a figure who personifies the traditional characteristics of Punjabi folk heroes. But for many, he is seen as both someone who demonstrates the possibility of a radical Punjabiyat, one that affirms the value of resistance and transcends parochialism in its connection to the wider world and solidarity with other struggles, says Moffat. He credits Lahore-based theatre group Punjab Lok Rahs for actively telling Bhagat Singhs story through street plays in recent years and affirming his importance as part of the long-standing Punjabi traditions of resistance, and Diep Saeeda, director of Institute of Peace and Secular Studies, engaged in the renaming of Shadman Chowk (where the revolutionary was hanged) as Bhagat Singh Chowk. Earlier Saeeda had consulted municipal records to locate the cell where Bhagat Singh was lodged at the Lahore Central Jail which was demolished in the 1960s. The chowk had come up at the same place. Every year, on March 23, activists gather at the spot for remembrance and call for official recognition of the martyr of Lahore, giving, as Moffat writes, the dead Bhagat Singh a visible body in Pakistans national space, positioning him as a hero in its national story... A dream lost, a due tribute The book notes that the first tribute planned for Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev was not a statue or a samadhi. Some weeks after the executions, an All-India Martyrs Memorial Committee was established at Bradlaugh Hall, Lahore, drawing together several prominent public figures in the city, including Bhagat Singhs father Kishan Singh. The committee resolved to raise Rs 10,00,000 to build a workers home and lecture hall, to found a library and reading room, to establish a fund that would ease the suffering of political prisoners and their families, to establish another fund to help conduct the defence of political cases, and, finally, to publish political literature. It is not clear what came of these efforts, Moffat writes. For him, the most politically productive ways to commemorate Bhagat Singh would be memorial activities that bring to light the difficult questions Bhagat Singh asked about freedom, responsibility and political commitment in his time, and which connect these questions to the 21st present. He says statues are often good for promoting reverence for a figure, but they can also silence them, freezing them in bronze or stone. Many people are inspired by Bhagat Singh today because he continues to represent a revolution left unfinished, a struggle for freedom caught halfway. He is a figure who demands active engagement, who asks for something more than the laying of flowers or the saluting of a statue. Machismo overpowers For long, efforts have been made to present Bhagat Singhs intellectual side, but it is his image as a brave, masculine, macho patriot that remains so prominent and popular. Why do people continue to accept him as an icon of youthful self-sacrifice rather than a serious theorist of revolution? To answer this question, he offers a re-reading of Bhagat Singhs life to understand the promise he represents, rather than any particular programme he might have authored. Only in this way, I argue, can we understand the long-term significance of this history and the enduring popularity of the revolutionary today. singhking99@yahoo.com Vishav Bharti The press is ready. A few houses have been rented for accommodation in Lahores Model Town, read Gurbaksh Singh Preelaris letter to novelist Nanak Singh. In the early months of 1938, the letter alerted other prominent writers that they will soon be requested to move in with their families. Two years ago, Gurbaksh Singh, the University of Michigan-trained civil engineer, had left his job as a railway engineer in Naushehra and moved to Lahore. It was here that he began discussing the idea of making an ideal village, where all animals will be equal. He purchased 200 acres of land for Rs 40,000 in the middle of Lahore and Amritsar and the dream to build Punjabs first planned rural socio-cultural township begun to take shape in Lopoke village. He named it Preet Nagar, the town of love. On June 7, 1938, a caravan comprising Gurbaksh Singh, Nanak Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Deen Dayal, Kartar Singh, Piara Singh Siharari and Piara Singh Data moved to this nondescript place. Soon the town started buzzing with community kitchen, collective farming, activity school and open air theatre. Initially eight houses were built, each housed two families. Later, actor Balraj Sahni, painter Sobha Singh, writer Kartar Singh Duggal and publisher Bhapa Pritam made Preet Nagar their home. The great grandmother of Punjabi theatre, Norah Richards and poet Amrita Pritam were frequent visitors here. That moved Pt Jawaharlal Nehru so much that he couldnt hold back his eagerness to see it and visited in 1942. In the past eight decades, the town has born many rough weathers. First, construction was stopped at Preet Nagar due to World War I, then Partition proved fatal, during which even Gurbaksh Singh temporarily moved to Delhi. The hostility on the border and militancy turned the beautiful dream to dust. Punjabs renaissance town was left to fend for itself, but the old and young from the family of the great dreamer have for several years tried to revive it. First step in that direction was The Gurbakhsh Singh Nanak Singh Foundation formed in 1999 and led by his son Hirday Paul Singh. It organises various functions every year. Gurbaksh Singhs grandson Ratikant Singh and his wife, Poonam, (the editor of Preetlari) along with their two daughters have left Chandigarh to stay at Preet Nagar and are making efforts to rejuvenate the town by offering residency programmes for artists and holding various activities like annual melas. These efforts have given hope to many, who were earlier witnessing the demise of this town. Punjabi writer Mukhtiar Gill, who joined as a teacher in school 1968, fell in love with the place and settled here, says that even if it is slow, dawn is breaking. For the writers of my generation, Preet Nagar was just like a pilgrimage site. Activities in the recent years have given hope that that all is not lost. Balbir Parwana, literary editor of Punjabi newspaper Nawan Zamana, says, More than the structures of concrete, Preet Nagar will always be remembered for its glorious past. It will be remembered for the courageous dreams of Gurbaksh Singh who pushed the imagination of an entire generation. He says had the successive governments paid even a little heed to its contribution, the town could have been in a much better shape today. Sukirat Anand, maternal grandson of Gurbaksh Singh, who is member of the foundation, and organises a function at Preet Nagar in the memory of his father, journalist Jagjit Singh Anand, and mother, writer Urmila Anand, says individual efforts to save any heritage will always have some limitations. Institutions like universities should come forward to preserve such places. When I was a student in the erstwhile Soviet Union, I remember universities would organise trips of students to villages of Russian writers like Pushkin, Gogol, and Tolstoy, etc. We, he says, shouldnt forget that Preet Nagar is a town that was inhabited by writers who laid the foundation of modern Punjabi literature. Here, we have three universities. Cant they even hold one function in a year at the town which was inhibited by the father of Punjabi prose and father of Punjabi novel? The teaching of literature even in universities seems to have been reduced to classrooms, he rues. Gurbaksh Singh had started looking the death of his dream town during his life time. After spending two years in Delhi during Partition when he decided to come back Preet Nagar, none except Nanak Singh responded. Hirday Paul Singh recalls that looking at the abandoned Preet Nagar then, he had said: Now only ruins of a dream are left. Will the future be different? It can be. Inside Preet Nagar singhking99@yahoo.com Faiqa Mansab Jehangir in this day and age, its mindboggling that women demanding freedom and equality are treated with contempt and disdain. The participants of Aurat March in Pakistan found it out the hard way. Women in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad took out the march for the third year in a row, carrying placards with messages and jokes ranging from serious to funny to bawdy. It was the largest congregation of women seen yet for this purpose. And when it got over, a massive backlash erupted. Why? What could have possibly threatened the patriarchy so much that trolls on Twitter swarmed the pages of these brave women? After all, women have marched before all over the world demanding same things. They have marched for their rights to inherit property, to vote, to education in the West in the fifties and sixties, and then in the seventies for the right to abortion. And lest we forget, they were opposed too! Patriarchy a mindset Patriarchy is not just about men. Its a mindset, prevalent in women as well. Post the march, the women who posted disparaging posts on Twitter and Facebok about their sisters for being shameless, elitist and liberal are also part of the mindset. Largely, the rage against Aurat March was because they spoke the words they shouldnt have. The participants spoke openly about male genital, the placards showed naked pictures sent by men to women. Basically, the point they wanted to underline was consent; however, it got lost or ignored in the man-made rage that followed. The rage was essentially not about the language used, but the right to use that language. Language is power. Furthermore, the words and images were also about sexual power. One placard read, Warm your own food and your bed. Another read, You do it and youre a stud, I do it and Im a slut. Yet another said, My body, my decision. Probing questions Divorced and happy, read one of the placards. It must have shocked the patriarchy. They must be bad women if they are because which good woman would be happy if divorced. If you are not miserable, you are a terrible woman, especially if go to town with your new husband. And then, this patriarchal coterie, red in the face, will shout its against their religion. And if you argue that Islam gives permission for divorce and re-marriage, they will go purple in the face and blurt out words like culture and society. Aurat March is asking question like, what is more important the monolithic patriarchy, the oppressive concepts of culture and society or the religion which gives women the right to choose their husbands, the right to divorce, the right to property, the right to re-marry. Their answer of course would be anything that keeps women in their place, right under the thumb of patriarchy. Nida Usman, the founder of Lahore Education Research Network and Women in Law, says, "The march was a liberating experience. Ive never felt so safe in a public place. I went with my four-year-old son and my 65-year-old aunt. It was beyond age, gender and class boundaries. There were students, teachers, maids, etc. There was sisterhood and solidarity." Women movements across the globe have earned them the right to vote, inheritance, more opportunities for work, etc. Which of these has been detrimental to societies and men? How have men suffered because of these changes in law? Men, however, continue to feel threatened with women coming into public spaces and uniting against patriarchy. Equal pay is still an issue. Equal opportunities, too. But how can women have equal opportunities when they are still fighting for education, for the right to divorce, for the ownership of their own bodies? Critics said the participants are a privileged lot, so they have no idea about the struggles of the oppressed women. Maybe thats true. But that doesnt disqualify them from supporting those who arent. Theres something called empathy. Men should try it! Between foreign currency fever and political strife stands the human suffering of the Venezuelan people. [pro_ad_display_adzone id=4] [pro_ad_display_adzone id=6] PART I* After some discussions and reflections with my colleague, the Brazilian professor and journalist Cilene Victor, I accepted the challenge to write this article, aware of how much we have to stray from the simplistic view about the actual reality in Venezuela, the country where I was born and lived until 2017. From an external perspective but with the experience of having lived in Venezuela as a person, journalist and militant, the main idea of this text is to reflect about the humanitarian crisis triggered by the unprecedented economic and political crisis, which has made me an asylum seeker in Brazil. It is imperative to highlight the astonishing resistance of worldwide public opinion to understanding the economic and political instability as one of the root causes of the humanitarian crisis. This resistance may be associated with the media coverage that overly reports crises caused by civil wars, armed conflicts and disasters. As a result, the question is often asked in part of the traditional and social media: is there a humanitarian crisis in Venezuela? As I see things, the causes of the humanitarian crisis that does exist in Venezuela can be explained by focusing on the economic, political and social dimensions. It is imperative to highlight the astonishing resistance of worldwide public opinion to understanding the economic and political instability as one of the root causes of the humanitarian crisis. Economic dimension The establishment of a Forex market (foreign exchange parallel market), sustained by more than 10 years of national currency loss of value, was induced by sectors of the business class and the traditional oligarchy in agreement with the military high command, responsible for the National Commission for Administration of Foreign Currency. This resulted in the abandonment of other productive activities, being much more attractive to the national financial operators to buy foreign currency at a preferential price and sell it in a speculative market increasingly rising, led by the website Dollar Today Venezuela. As a consequence, poverty in 2017 reached 87% of the population, placing 61.2% in extreme vulnerability. Political dimension The Venezuelan Opposition has sold Maduro to the international media as the only guilty one of the political crisis. In reality, however, it is a question of shared responsibilities, since the main leaders of the Right and the Left are great financial operators and partners of the military high command in charge of the National Commission for Administration of Foreign Currency. On the other hand, we have seen a government that constantly blames the opposition and the interests of the American Empire, without assuming responsibility for the corruption that is born in the bosom of its leaders. As a result, the polarization built by these two camps, government and opposition forces, has led the population, the international media and global public opinion to a partial vision of chaos. To understand the Venezuelan political scenario, lets review the latest electoral results and their high level of abstention. The country has a population of 32 million people, a total of 20 million of registered voters, of which only about 9 million exercised their right in the presidential election of 20 May 2018. From those who abstained, 3.4 million are immigrants and refugees around the world and 7 million did not vote while inside the country, as the Venezuelan opposition, in the absence of an agreement to propose a candidate, called for non-participation in the elections. This resulted in the highest rate of abstention in Venezuelan history (almost 55%). At the end of the polls Nicolas Maduro won with some 6,3 million votes (approx. 68%), the former leader of the same party, Henri Falcon, got almost 2 million (21%) and the evangelical pastor Javier Bertucci about 1 million votes (11%). Today, the global media refers to Juan Guaido as a great leader, which evidences the coordinated manoeuver Guaido-Trump. When applying critical analysis on the self-appointed presidents speech, it is possible to see a veiled interest in maintaining the humanitarian crisis for an indeterminate period of time. It explains why the banner of the discourse is the transition, which would allow Guaido a hypothetical Transitional Government, making the restoration of democratic process conditional on humanitarian aid. This perception was reaffirmed by US special envoy for Venezuela Elliott Abrams in recent interviews to Venezuelan journalists exiled in Miami. The speculation, the economic polarization and political crisis scenario that is unfolding has triggered a deep social decomposition in Venezuela The main consequence of the polarization in Venezuela is a new era expressed in the dispute between two political parties, the PSUV (United Socialist Party of Venezuela), chaired by Maduro, and the MUD (Democratic Unity Roundtable) represented by Guaido. In fact, it is an attempt to maintain the crisis, which guarantees both sides to grow their private finances. It is also important to note that in Venezuela, as a result of this crisis, there is 5% of the population that has increased its wealth by more than 1,000,000% in 10 years. Social dimension The speculation, the economic polarization and political crisis scenario that is unfolding has triggered a deep social decomposition in Venezuela, where the opposite values mentioned previously began to be part of the Venezuelan culture. A sharp example is the phenomenon Bachaqueo (speculative business), which means buying a product subsidized by the government at a lower price and then selling it 20 times more expensive in the informal market. The Venezuelan society has been losing solidarity as an essential value for survival, which has converted the country into what sociologists call a complicit society. The polarization has resulted in intolerance that has increased the incidence of violence not only regarding common crimes but also political causes. Part II* A third way of understanding the complexity of the crisis All the elements described previously suggest how extremely necessary and imperative it is to find a third way to understand and remedy this complex reality. Such a third way is essential to confront the main impacts of the unfolding political and economic crisis and the highly polarized discourse between left and right. A part of the Latin American left-wing associates the Venezuelan crisis with the United States international politics, while a part of the right attributes the problem to the legacies of Chavismo. The error both sides make is that they underestimate the suffering of millions of Venezuelans that find themselves in a situation of forced migration. They ignore the size of the workforce that had to flee the country, living today under conditions of extreme vulnerability and depending on the humanitarian policies of host countries. The left versus right discourse has been echoed in social media, which, in turn, contribute to amplifying the political-ideological divide and extend the human suffering. It is a prominent example of the use of social media as the thermometer of a new and controversial political governance style, inaugurated and developed with mastery by Trump and copied by the new Brazilian President, Jair Bolsonaro. The humanitarian crisis scenario in Venezuela, therefore, coincides with a social management policy, whose effectiveness is as fleeting as the life cycle of a tweet or posting on Facebook. The left-right polarization not only harms and contaminates the understanding of the causes of Venezuelan economic and political instability, but also delays the acceptance of the existence of a humanitarian crisis in the country. Throughout recent history, other humanitarian crises, initially denied by the main social actors, eventually became even more challenging. The humanitarian crisis scenario in Venezuela coincides with a social management policy, whose effectiveness is as fleeting as the life cycle of a tweet or posting on Facebook In social media, a question has been common: Is there a humanitarian crisis in Venezuela? If we consider the definition of a humanitarian crisis adopted by the UN in the final research-based report of the Human Rights Council Advisory Committee on best practices and main challenges in the promotion and protection of human rights in post-disaster and post-conflict situations, the answer is yes. As this definition goes: [humanitarian crisis is] an event or a series of events representing a critical threat to the health, safety, security and/or well-being of a community or other large group of people, usually over a wide area. Armed conflicts, epidemics, famine, natural disasters and other major emergencies may all involve or lead to a humanitarian crisis that extends beyond the mandate or capacity of any single agency. An emergency is a large-scale crisis that destroys the lives of individuals, wrecks communities and overwhelms their ability to cope. For the Red Cross, a complex emergency is a humanitarian crisis in a country, region or society where there is a total or considerable breakdown of authority resulting from internal or external conflict and requires an international response that goes beyond the mandate or capacity of any single agency and/or the ongoing UN country program (IASC). And to complete that: complex emergencies are typically characterized by: 1. extensive violence and loss of life; 2. displacement of populations; 3. widespread damage to societies and economies; 4. the need for large-scale, multi-faceted humanitarian assistance; 5. the hindrance or prevention of humanitarian assistance by political and military constraints; 6. significant security risks for humanitarian relief workers in some areas. Even though there is a controversy about the factors that triggered the political and economic crisis, this explanation doesnt leave a margin to the international and local political leaders, the worldwide media and public opinion to question the existence of a humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. The crisis being indisputable, we cannot but leave aside the simplistic interpretation, which is insufficient for promoting a humanitarian process at a global and regional scale. Instead, we have to turn to humanitarianism and the solidarity of people to overcome the political and economic interests of nations over human suffering. We have to think about the emergence of a third way of analysing, moving away from the polarization that has muted the Venezuelans human suffering. Humanitarian Journalism is part of this third way, which we will discuss further on. To be continued *These are the first two parts of an article in three parts by the authors on the situation in Venezuela. laxmi@tribune.com THE only feature of the Tilak Chirol case that partially relived the monotony of questions and answers, many of which had no bearing on the case, was the interchange of amenities, sometimes between counsel on both sides, and sometimes between Sir Edward Carson and Mr Tilak, in which the Court itself joined. One notable instance occurred in the course of the proceedings when Sir Carson asked what was meant by being swadeshi in thought, to which Mr Tilak gave the opposite answer that it meant that you ought not to have to be reminded of it: you should have it in your thoughts. Thereupon the Court remarked:- It means that you ought not to eat swadeshi sugar on Monday and British sugar for the rest of the week. I dont know how it is with the jury, but I begin to think that I know what swadeshi is. To which we need only say that his lordship certainly does, so far as English swadeshi is concerned, as all his countrymen do. England would not be the great nation that she is if she did not practise swadeshi to the utmost extent possible. The only difficulty is about other peoples swadeshi. singhking99@yahoo.com Aprajita Monga The Delhi Government recently drafted a policy to check wastage of food at social functions in the NCR. All organisers and caterers will have to register themselves with NGOs to manage the surplus food for distribution among the underprivileged Nitika Saini, Hiteshi Arora and Ishita Choudhary are no ordinary students. The three NSS volunteers and Panjab University students from the Social Works Department were recently awarded by the Mayor of Chandigarh for donating excess food from hostels. The students have started a drive to collect leftover green vegetables from hostel messes and shops at the universitys student centre and donate it to a cow shelter in the city. Their daily collection is more than 150 kg. Dr Gaurav Gaur, assistant professor, Center for Social Work, Panjab University, has been leading the campaign. In a country which has an estimated 195.9 million undernourished people, food wastage remains an issue. Many individuals and organisations have been working to create a balance by feeding the surplus food to the needy. Among these is the Robin Hood Army. The Robins or volunteers of the organisation, which has operations in 103 cities across 12 countries, gather surplus food from restaurants, which is then served to the less fortunate ones. More than nine million people have benefited since the organisation was established in New Delhi in 2014 by Neel Ghose and Anand Sinha. According to Ghose, The problem is not lack of food. Its the lack of access to food. The organisation doesnt accept any monetary donations. We have tie-ups with restaurants all over the Tricity. These include Pal Dhaba, Classic 35, Pik-n-Move, Kelong and Lalit Hotel, says Shibani Verma, head of the Chandigarh chapter of the RHA. Another name that figures among the list of food donors is that of Jagdish Lal Ahuja, popularly known as PGIs Langar Baba. Ahuja, who has been donating food in front of the PGI, Chandigarh, for the past 19 years, says, Main mandir nahin jana, gurdwara nahin jana, ehi mera mandir gurdwara hai (I dont go to temple or gurdwara. This is my place of worship. To follow his calling, he even sold off many of his properties. He brings food for around 700 persons every day. They are served rice, roti, dal and halwa. A long hard battle against cancer, too, didnt come in the way of his calling. Delhi-based Feeding India, too, has been working towards finding an innovative solution to the hunger problem. The initiative was started by Ankit Kawatra when he saw food that could feed 1,000 persons getting wasted after a wedding. The volunteers or hunger heroes collect food from weddings and events and distribute it at various shelter homes. As part of its #FightFoodWaste campaign, the NGO has set up 500 Happy Fridges across 100 cities in the country for the needy. The food collected from public residences is labelled and kept in these fridges. This food can be collected free of cost. Similarly, people who want to donate can put food packets in the fridge. The Delhi Government recently drafted a policy to check wastage of food at social functions in the NCR. All organisers and caterers will now have to register themselves with NGOs to manage the surplus food for distribution among the underprivileged. Rahul Devesh Just Rs 32. This is the number that defines the poverty line in urban India. Over the years, our governments have kept the poverty figures low to hide their inability to provide three basic necessities of food, clothing and shelter to 22 per cent of the population, a modest estimate of the poor living below the divide. There are, however, some Good Samaritans, who have made lives of the poor bearable with their tiny but noble initiatives. One such enterprise is the Roti Bank that feeds hundreds of people each day. An idea mooted by Narwana resident, Balwinder Nain, the initiative feeds a large number of the needy in nine cities, including the City Beautiful. Its specialty is that you need not pay anything for the service, which has been running successfully with the help of city residents and a group of dedicated workers for the past three years. Bishan Singh, along with his colleague, rises early. The two leave their booth, which is behind the GMCH-32 around 8 am, to collect flour and vegetables. From there, the raw material is taken to a kitchen in Ram Darbar, where Balwinder Kaur, a widow, and her two daughters cook food for more than 500 persons every day. They dont charge a penny to do this noble work. Exactly at 12.30 pm, a vehicle carrying cooked food arrives in front of the GMCH-32. Adorned by a banner appealing to people to contribute for the noble cause, the vehicle is soon surrounded by the beneficiaries. The food truck attracts one and all. People from various strata of society can be seen gathered in front of the vehicle. Be it children, women, labourers or those belonging to the lower middle class, all can be seen relishing the hygienically prepared food. Interestingly, to connect with as many people as possible, its managers have devised an idea of celebrating the contributors birthday. According to Vikas Kumar, one of its managers, by contributing just Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000, one can help feed around 500 persons every day. One such contributor was Sheenu Palta, a schoolteacher, who turned up with her aged mother to celebrate her birthday with the needy. She says, I wanted to do this for a long time. I came to know about it at the school. It is a great way to come to the rescue of those left untouched by social handicaps and welfare schemes. Now share medicines too Enlarging their sphere of welfare, Ashwani, one of the managers of Roti Bank, says they have started accepting medicines for distribution among the needy. Any medicine not being used can be given to us and we will provide these to the organisations working for free treatment of patients. Recently, we collected medicines worth around Rs 40,000 from our collection box at Bhavan Vidyalaya School in Sector 27, Chandigarh. One such box has been installed at Paradise Society, Sector 50. Anybody can contact us for the installation of our collection box to contribute to the cause, he added. pardeepdhull@gmail.com Islamabad, March 23 It would be a mistake for India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-Partition and its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness, President Arif Alvi said on Saturday as Islamabad displayed its military might on the National Day. Alvi was addressing the annual Pakistan Day Parade here to commemorate the resolution passed by the All-India Muslim League on the day in 1940 in Lahore demanding a separate country for Muslims. The National Day featured a joint parade by the army, air force and navy, display of military hardware, along with open and veiled anti-India rhetoric. It was the duty and responsibility of Pakistan to respond to the Indian aggression... We responded with better strategy, Alvi said, apparently referring to the downing of an Indian Air Force jet. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group JeM killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmirs Pulwama district in February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation against a JeM training camp in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Alvi said Indias actions jeopardised peace in the region. It would a mistake on part of India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition. Doing so would be very dangerous for the regions stability. India will have to accept Pakistan as a reality, and it must come to the conclusion that dialogue is the only way to resolve issues, Alvi said at the ceremony, where Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was the guest of honour. He said Pakistan wants peaceful co-existence but its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness. We are a peaceful nation, but are not oblivious to our defence, and the same has been proved in the recent demonstration of Pakistans defence capability, he said, adding that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and respects integrity and sovereignty of other states. Alvi said the country is safe and moving on the path of progress and development after effectively combating the menace of terrorism. The president also inspected the parade before his address. Prime Minister Imran Khan, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mehmood Hayat, army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, naval chief Admiral Zafar Mehmood Abbasi and Chief of Air Staff Mujahid Anwar Khan attended the ceremony. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Contingents, paratroopers and fighter jets from Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, China, Bahrain and Sri Lanka also took part in the parade. Shahper and Buraq drones were also displayed in the parade along with different missile systems including Nasr, Babur, Shaheen 1, Ghuri, Shaheen 111 among others, and defence systems as well as tanks. The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were also offered in mosques after morning prayers for the countrys progress and prosperity. PTI pardeepdhull@gmail.com Christchurch, March 23 Smelling of fresh paint, the two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch where a gunman killed 50 worshippers last week reopened their doors on Saturday, with many survivors among the first to walk in and pray for those who died. At the Al Noor mosque, where more than 40 of the victims were killed by a suspected white supremacist, prayers resumed with armed police on site, but no graphic reminders of the mass shooting, New Zealands worst. Aden Diriye, who lost his 3-year-old son, Mucad Ibrahim, in the attack, came back to the mosque with his friends. I am very happy, he said after praying. Allah is great to us. I was back as soon as we rebuilt, to pray. Most victims of the shooting, which New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern quickly denounced as a terrorist attack, were migrants or refugees and their deaths reverberated around the Islamic world. Prince El Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, who visited the Al Noor mosque, said the attack assailed human dignity. This is a moment of deep anguish for all of us, all of humanity, he said. Police said they were reopening the nearby Linwood mosque, the second to be attacked during Friday prayers last week, as well. New Zealand has been under heightened security alert since the attack with Ardern moving quickly with a new tough law banning some of the guns used in the March 15 shooting. [ Ashif Shaikh, who was in the Al Noor mosque on the day of the massacre in which two of his housemates were killed and who came back on Saturday, said he would not be deterred. It is the place where we pray, where we meet, well be back, yeah, he said. MARCH FOR LOVE Earlier on Saturday, about 3,000 people walked through Christchurch in a march for love as the city seeks to heal from its tragedy. Carrying placards with signs such as He wanted to divide us, he only made us stronger, Muslims welcome, racists not, and Kia Kaha - Maori for stay strong, people walked mostly in silence or softly sang a Maori hymn of peace. We feel like hate has brought a lot of darkness at times like this and love is the strongest cure to light the city out of that darkness, said Manaia Butler, 16, one of the student organisers of the march. New Zealand and Ardern have been widely praised for the outpouring of empathy and unity in response to the attacks. Dubais ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, thanked Ardern on Twitter late on Friday. He posted a photo of Dubais Burj Khalifaworld, the worlds tallest building, lit up with an enlarged image of Ardern embracing a woman and the Arabic word salam and the English translation peace above them. Thank you @jacindaardern and New Zealand for your sincere empathy and support that has won the respect of 1.5 billion Muslims after the terrorist attack that shook the Muslim community around the world, he said on Twitter. Muslims account for just over 1 percent of New Zealands 4.8-million population, a 2013 census showed, most of whom were born overseas. On Friday, the Muslim call to prayer was broadcast nationwide on television and radio and about 20,000 people attended a prayer service in the park opposite Al Noor mosque in a show of solidarity. Many women have also donned headscarves to show their support. In Mecca, Islams holiest site, a special prayer was held after the Friday sermon for the victims of the attack, according to the Saudi news website Sabq. Most of the dead were laid to rest at a mass burial in Christchurch on Friday, when 26 victims were interred. Others have been buried at private ceremonies, or repatriated to their home countries for funerals. Shahadat Hossain, whose brother Mojammel Haque was killed in the attack, told Reuters he would bring his body back to Bangladesh. I dont know when our family will be able to come out of this grief, he said. Reuters shalender@tribune.com Islamabad, March 22 Cash-strapped Pakistan will receive over US$ 2 billion loan from its all-weather ally China by Monday to provide a boost to its ailing economy, the Finance Ministry has announced. Ministrys adviser and spokesperson Khaqan Najeeb Khan said all procedural formalities for the transfer of the US$ 2.1 billion (15 billion yuan) loan being provided by the Chinese government have been completed, and the funds will be deposited in the State Bank of Pakistans account by Monday, March 25, the media reported. Pakistan has received US$ 1 billion each from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as part of the bailout packages by the two Gulf nations to help shore up Islamabads dwindling foreign currency reserves. Saudi Arabias assistance was part of the US$ 6 billion bailout package US$ 3 billion balance-of-payments support and another US$ 3 billion in deferred payments on oil imports which Riyadh had agreed in October last year. Islamabad is also in talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package.The loan facility will further strengthen foreign exchange reserves and ensure balance of payment stability, the spokesperson said. Following a meeting in Beijing between Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Prime Minister Imran Khan in November 2018, China said it was willing to offer assistance to Pakistan to help it weather its current fiscal woes, but the terms of such aid were still being discussed. Shortly after, Chinese Consul General Long Dingbin had said during an interview that in order to boost Pakistans economy, Beijing was investing in multiple sectors and launching business ventures instead of providing loans. Earlier, Pakistan officials said Islamabad would seek around US$ 8 billion from the IMF which would be the biggest package by the fund for Islamabad. PTI IMF crucial for more funding Even though the Pakistan government has secured a breathing space from Saudi Arabian and the UAE loans, an IMF programme is essential to unlock access to resources from other multilateral lenders like the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, as well as the global capital markets. amansharma@tribunemail.com Mogadishu, March 23 Five people were killed, including a deputy minister, on Saturday after Al-Shabaab militants stormed government buildings in Somalias capital, a witness and a senator told AFP. I saw the dead bodies of four people, one of them in police uniform, said witness Abdulahi Mohamed. Senator Ilyas Ali Hassan named the deceased minister as Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, who was killed separately. The attack began with twin bombings of the complex housing Somalias ministries of works and labour, which were then stormed by the Shabaab. Police official Ibrahim Mohamed said the attack ended after police killed four gunmen. There were some other casualties including members of the police, he said, without elaborating. The attack also left at least 11 people wounded, according to Abdukadir Abdirahman Adan, director of the Aamin ambulance service in the capital Mogadishu. Shortly after the assault began, Al-Shabaab issued a statement claiming credit. Attacks that combine bombings with gunmen have become a speciality of the Al-Qaeda linked group, which is fighting an armed insurrection in Somalia against what it sees as heretic and foreign influence. Earlier this month, at least 20 people died in an attack in Mogadishu which saw Al-Shabaab jihadists battling security forces for nearly 24 hours. AFP shalender@tribune.com Tehran, March 22 Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif expressed shock on Friday at US President Donald Trumps acceptance of Israeli sovereignty over Syrias Golan Heights. All shocked by @realDonaldTrump continuing to try to give what is not his to racist Israel: first Al-Quds & now Golan Zarif tweeted from Istanbul where he was attending an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Trump said on Thursday the United States should acknowledge Israeli sovereignty over the hotly contested Golan Heights. After 52 years, it is time for the United States to fully recognise Israels Sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Trump said in a tweet. In 2017, Trump also went against decades of practice in recognising the disputed city of Jerusalem, called Al-Quds by the Muslims, as Israels capital, rather than the previously accepted Tel Aviv. Iran has been a key ally of the Syrian government during the devastating civil war that erupted in 2011 and a key player with Russia and Turkey in efforts to bring it to an end. AFP/Agencies Gulf Arab regional group regrets us prez call DUBAI: The Gulf Cooperation Council regional group of six Arab monarchies expressed regret on Friday at U.S. President Donald Trumps call to recognise Israels sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Statements by the American President undermine the chances of achieving a just and comprehensive peace.said Abdul Latif Al Zayani, secretary general, GCC. Damascus vows to get it back BEIRUT: The Syrian government vowed to recover the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights as its allies and enemies alike condemned US President Donald Trump on Friday for moving to recognise Israeli sovereignty over the territory seized in war. Dramatic shift in US policy Trumps statement marked a dramatic shift in the US policy over the status of a disputed area that Israel captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East conflict and annexed in 1981 - a move not recognised internationally. Israeli sovereignty breaks intl law Paris: France does not recognise the Israeli annexation of the Golan Heights and its recognition as called for by US President Donald Trump is contrary to international law, its foreign ministry said on Friday. After 52 years, it is time for the United States to fully recognise Israels sovereignty over the Golan Heights Donald Trump, us president pardeepdhull@gmail.com Washington, March 23 When members of Special Counsel Robert Muellers team investigating Russias role in the 2016 US election have arrived for work each day, they have placed their mobile phones in a locker outside of their office suite before entering. Operating in secrecy in a nondescript glass-and-concrete office, the team of prosecutors and investigators since May 2017 has unearthed secrets that have led to bombshell charges against several of President Donald Trumps aides, including his former national security adviser, campaign chairman and personal lawyer, who have pleaded guilty or been convicted by a jury. To protect those secrets from prying ears, the whole of the office suite in southwest Washington has been designated a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF), US spy speak for an area that has restrictions to ensure secret information stays secure. One common restriction in SCIFs is to keep out smartphones and other electronic devices, which can be turned into covert listening devices or spy cameras. Visitors also have been required to turn these over before entering. The restrictions, while not surprising given the team was investigating whether a hostile foreign power tried to help Trump win the 2016 election and whether his campaign conspired in the effort, have not been previously reported. Mueller on Friday sent his report on his investigation to US Attorney General William Barr, setting off a clamor from lawmakers in both Democratic and Republican parties for the documents public release. Accounts of witnesses interviewed by the special counsels team, their lawyers and others familiar with the investigation reveal the lengths to which Mueller, a former FBI director, has gone to ensure his high-profile probe safeguarded its secrets. In a city known for its leaks, Mueller has pulled off a rare feat. He has kept a tight lid on both his office and the evidence he was amassing in his highly sensitive investigation that has cast a cloud over Trumps presidency. And he did it even as Trump relentlessly criticized him, calling the probe a witch hunt and the special counsels team thugs. THE ADVISER AND THE DODGE CHARGER When former Trump campaign adviser Michael Caputo agreed to an interview with Mueller in May 2018, he was told he would be picked up at the hotel where he was staying in Washington. On the lookout for a black government SUV, Caputo and his lawyer were surprised when an FBI agent drove up in his personal car, a white Dodge Charger. Then he drove us 15 blocks to their location and we went in through the garage so that nobody would see, Caputo said in an interview. Caputo was questioned about former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, Manaforts aide Rick Gates and longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone. When the interview was over, Muellers team told him they would take him back to his hotel. Caputo said Muellers team was not happy with what he said next. I said Im meeting a TV crew downstairs so I wont need a ride, Caputo said. They werent upset that I was talking to the media, they were disturbed that I was doing it in (front of) the office. They were concerned ... that would put their agents and attorneys at risk, Caputo said, adding that he agreed to meet the news crew at a different location nearby. Former Trump campaign adviser Sam Nunberg said an FBI agent picked him up at the train station to take him to the office. You put your phone and any electronic devices and leave them in a compartment out front, Nunberg added. It was a very plain office. Nunberg said he went into a conference room with three tables, and prosecutor Aaron Zelinsky, a member of Muellers team, came in with three FBI agents, one female and two males. The offices location was not publicly revealed but was discovered by journalists. Still, it has not been widely publicized. Muellers team has asked media outlets not to publish the exact location for security purposes. We are working in a secure location in Southwest DC, Peter Carr, a spokesman for Mueller, has said. Staying out of the news In a town where everybody and their mother is trying to get on the front page, Bob Mueller was always trying to stay out of the news, said Mark Corallo, a former Justice Department spokesman. He wanted to be judged on actions, not press conferences. Corallo, who was briefly a spokesman for Trumps legal team, was interviewed by Muellers team in February 2018. Corallo and other witnesses summoned for interviews by Muellers team said they were picked up from their lawyers offices and taken to a secure parking garage in the building in southwest Washington. The teams office suite was anonymous with no plaque on the door to identify its occupants, said Washington lawyer A. Joseph Jay, who represented a witness he declined to identify. More than once, Jay recalled, members of Muellers team expressed their commitment to confidentiality. They made it clear on a number of occasions, We dont leak. You dont have to worry about that with us. By keeping to their code of silence, they were professionals, Jay said. They werent reacting to the spin. They were doing their jobs. They spoke through a number of indictments. They spoke through a number of sentencing memos. Mueller has remained silent throughout the investigation and his office has issued only one statement. In that statement, issued this past January, spokesman Carr labeled as not accurate a BuzzFeed News account describing evidence collected by the special counsel that allegedly showed that Trump had directed his former lawyer Michael Cohen to lie to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. BuzzFeed has stood by its story. Trumps lawyer Rudy Giuliani, himself a former federal prosecutor, also remarked on Mueller staying out of sight. Whenever we talk to them, they say, Well take it to Bob. Hes like the Wizard of Oz, Giuliani said. Giuliani said although he was suspicious of leaks to the news media, he acknowledged he knew of none for sure from the special counsels team and that nothing he told Muellers office was leaked. Mueller doesnt talk to us. I dont know why hed talk to the press, the former New York mayor added. Joseph Campbell, a former assistant director of the FBIs Criminal Investigative Division who worked at the agency when Mueller headed it, said the special counsel knows how to handle sensitive investigations and ignores the attacks on him. He went through 12 years starting with 9/11 of extremely critical and sensitive investigations around the world, said Campbell, referring to the 2001 attacks on the United States. This is right in his wheelhouse. He is not affected by external criticism or speculation, Campbell added. Robert Litt, former general counsel for the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, said any leaks about the investigation appeared to have come from witnesses or their lawyers. Theres nothing he can do about that, Litt said, referring to Mueller. Litt said Mueller, the 74-year-old former US Marine Corps officer and architect of the modern FBI, probably cares little about the public perception of him. He cares, Litt said, about doing the job right. Reuters pardeepdhull@gmail.com Baghouz (Syria), March 23 US-backed forces said they had captured Islamic States last shred of territory in eastern Syria at Baghouz on Saturday, ending the groups self-proclaimed caliphate after years of fighting. Baghouz has been liberated. The military victory against Daesh has been accomplished, Mustafa Bali, a Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) spokesman, wrote on Twitter, declaring the total elimination of (the) so-called caliphate. However, a Reuters journalist at Baghouz said there were still some sounds of shooting and mortar fire. The final battle lasted weeks as huge numbers of civilians poured out, and for many Kurdish fighters in the SDF, victory was sweeter as it coincided with their Now Ruz new year. Though the defeat of Islamic State in Baghouz ends the groups grip over the jihadist quasi-state straddling Syria and Iraq that it declared in 2014, it remains a threat. Some of its fighters still hold out in Syrias remote central desert and in Iraqi cities they have slipped into the shadows, staging sudden shootings or kidnappings and awaiting a chance to rise again. The United States believes the groups leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is in Iraq. He stood at the pulpit of the great medieval mosque in Mosul in 2014 to declare himself caliph, sovereign over all Muslims. Further afield, jihadists in Afghanistan, Nigeria and elsewhere have shown no sign of recanting their allegiance to Islamic State, and intelligence services say its devotees in the West might plot new attacks. Still, the fall of Baghouz is a big milestone in a fight against the jihadist group waged by numerous local and global forces - some of them sworn enemies - over more than four years. It also marks a big moment in Syrias eight-year war, wiping out the territory of one of the main contestants, with the rest split between President Bashar al-Assad, Turkey-backed rebels and the Kurdish-led SDF. Assad and his Iranian allies have sworn to recapture all Syria, and Turkey has threatened to drive out the SDF, which it sees as a terrorist group, by force. The continued presence of U.S. troops in northeast Syria might avert this. Grisly rule Islamic State originated as an al Qaeda faction in Iraq, but it took advantage of Syrias civil war to seize land there and split from the global jihadist organisation. In 2014, it suddenly grabbed Iraqs Mosul, one of the regions great historic cities, as well as Syrias Raqqa, and swathes of land each side of the border. It declared an end to modern countries and called on supporters to leave their homes and join the jihadist utopia it claimed to be erecting, trumpeting its currency, flag, passports and military parades. Oil production, extortion and stolen antiquities financed its agenda, which included slaughtering some minorities, public slave auctions of captured women, grotesque punishments for minor crimes and the choreographed killing of hostages. Those excesses brought an array of forces against it, forcing it from Mosul and Raqqa in a year of heavy defeats in 2017 and driving it, eventually, down the Euphrates to Baghouz. Over the past two months some 60,000 people poured out of that dwindling enclave, fleeing SDF bombardment and a shortage of food so severe that some said they were reduced to cooking grass. Intense air strikes throughout the campaign have levelled entire districts and rights groups have said they killed many civilians, allegations the coalition has often disputed. A mass grave the SDF discovered last month showed there were other dangers in the enclave, though it has released no details on the identities of the victims or how they died. Civilians made up more than half the people leaving Baghouz, the SDF said, including Islamic State victims such as women from the Iraqi Yazidi sect whom the jihadists had sexually enslaved. Thousands of the groups unbending supporters also abandoned the enclave while still vowing their allegiance to a ruined caliphate and showing no remorse for its victims. At displacement camps in northeast Syria where they were sent by the SDF, the hardliners, including many foreign women who came to Syria and Iraq to marry jihadists, had to be kept away from other, often traumatized, residents. Their fate has befuddled foreign governments, who see them as a security threat and are loath to accede to SDF entreaties to take them back home. Defeat As the fighting progressed, the convoys of trucks from Baghouz started to include hundreds, and then thousands, of surrendering jihadist fighters, many hobbling from their wounds. The SDF said it captured hundreds more in recent weeks who tried to slip through its cordon and escape into Iraq or across the Euphrates and into the Syrian desert. At the end, they were besieged in a tiny camp full of rusting vehicles and makeshift shelters, pinned against the Euphrates and overlooked by hills held by the SDF. Islamic State released video from inside that squalid, shell-pounded enclave, showing its last fighters still shooting at the SDF as smoke billowed overhead. It was an attempt to shape the narrative of its defeat, portraying it as a heroic last stand against overwhelming odds and a call to arms for future jihadists. But in Baghouz in recent weeks long lines of abject, surrendering fighters sat or squatted in a desolate landscape, their dream of world domination in tatters. Reuters Study reveals impact of plain cigarette packaging warnings Health warnings on plain-packaged cigarettes have more of an impact on smokers than those on branded packs, according to new research from the University of Stirling. In one of the first studies to explore how smokers responded to standardised (plain) packaging, experts at the Institute of Social Marketing surveyed current smokers in 2017, when both standardised and fully-branded packs were on the market. The team found that smokers using standardised packs were more likely to have noticed the warnings 'often' or 'very often', compared to those who had never used standardised packs. This group also read warnings closely 'often' or 'very often'; thought 'somewhat' or 'a lot' about the health risks of smoking and quitting; and were more likely to have noticed a stop-smoking website on packs. Dr Crawford Moodie led the study - funded by Cancer Research UK and involving King's College London. The Senior Research Fellow said: "We found that UK smokers currently using standardised packs were more likely, than those who had never used standardised packs, to have noticed and read, or looked closely at, the health warnings; thought about the risks; and thought about quitting due to the look of the pack. "They were also more likely to report awareness of a stop-smoking website and cite warnings on packs of cigarettes or rolling tobacco as a source of awareness." The UK became the third country to fully implement standardised tobacco packaging in May 2017, following Australia in December 2012 and France in January 2017. The UK phased in standardised packaging - with companies given 12 months, from May 2016, to implement the policy. The research team investigated whether there was an association between using standardised packs and the health warnings; thoughts about the risks of smoking; thoughts about quitting; and awareness and use of stop-smoking websites. They conducted a cross-sectional online survey with 1,865 current smokers aged 16 and over, living in Yorkshire and Humber and the West Midlands, between February and April 2017, when both standardised and fully-branded packs were on the market. Seventy-six percent of participants reported that they were currently using standardised packs, while nine percent were not currently using them but had previously. Fourteen percent had never used standardised packs. Dr Moodie said: "Consistent with the broad objectives of standardised packaging, our research found that it was associated with increased warning salience, and thoughts about risks and quitting. "The findings provide some support for standardised packaging and are consistent with research in Australia, the first country to introduce the policy." Warnings used on standardised packs were novel and larger than those on fully-branded packs - and displayed pictorial images on both main display areas, rather than just the reverse. The team said that this might help to explain the findings, particularly in relation to warning salience and thoughts about the health risks. Dr Moodie added: "The UK Department of Health estimates that standardised packaging will have a net benefit to government of 25 billion ten years post-implementation. It is critical that countries robustly evaluate the impacts of this measure and do so over the longer term. "While our findings provide support for standardised packaging during the transition period, further research is needed to explore the intended and any unintended consequences of this policy in the UK, and elsewhere, after it has been fully implemented." George Butterworth, Cancer Research UK's senior policy manager, said: "This study adds to the growing body of evidence that standardised packaging reduces the appeal of tobacco products. "It's important to evaluate the impact of this so other countries can follow the UK's lead and protect future generations from the harm of tobacco." ### The paper, How did smokers respond to standardised cigarette packaging with new, larger health warning in the United Kingdom during the transition period? A cross-sectional online survey, is published in Addiction Research and Theory. This story has been published on: 2019-03-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Greedy political leaders and social media giants are shaping the future. Can the human ideal of morality serve as a game-changer? [pro_ad_display_adzone id=4] [pro_ad_display_adzone id=6] I remember the definition of a diplomat when I was studying International Relations as an honest man sent abroad to lie for his country. Somehow this did not make sense for me then, nor does it now. From family, school and Sunday school I grew up thinking that there is one set of ethical rules, which governs all aspects of life, for individuals and the whole society alike. How could such a person man or woman, to bring the definition up-to-date tell lies outside his/her country borders and be honest inside? How could s/he be trusted anywhere? This mystery continues to bother me today and has expanded in my mind to include additional aspects of public life, beyond diplomacy. How could a pious US president, George W. Bush, authorise the illegal according to the UN invasion of Iraq in 2003, which led to the death of hundreds of thousands of innocent people? Interesting that he was supported in this adventure by an equally pious British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, to balance the responsibility between the two sides of the Atlantic, and between the right and the left sides of the political spectrum. Both of the above were leaders of democratic nations and remained leaders despite the disastrous consequences of their actions. Do you think that they cannot sleep at night, at least some nights? Probably not. A lot of ink has been spilt on theories of just war, humanitarian intervention, etc., sometimes funded by such leaders. Even if such theories have failed to protect the lives of numerous innocents, or solve any major global issue, they have no doubt managed to safeguard the quality of sleep, as well as the freedom and the reputation, of the pious and self-righteous leaders who used them to justify their acts. A lot of ink has been spilt on theories of just war, humanitarian intervention, etc., that are often used to justify the acts of reckless leaders. Even more consequential than the decisions of political leaders may be, for billions of people, the decisions made nowadays by internet and social media giants like Facebook and Google. The entrepreneurs behind them operate like leaders with the whole world as their constituency and can locate storage and processing facilities, as well as their tax (non-)payments almost anywhere around the globe. Driven by profit they allow access to their (customers) data at the right price, even if it may not be the right people who get such access, for political or other reasons. The recently released report on Disinformation and fake news of the UK Parliaments Digital, Culture, Media and Sport select committee calls inter alia for a Compulsory Code of Ethics for tech companies overseen by an independent regulator that has the power to launch legal action against companies breaching the Code. CEOs and other senior officials of big financial establishments, banks and investment funds, are another group of leaders that seem to have issues of moral coherence. They shift around the world trillions of dollars and other currencies, a lot more than the actual worth of the real economy and whatever exists on this Earth. They play with these funds, package them in various ways and profit from endless transactions. When the buddle bursts, as it did in 2008, they get protection from central banks and governments, because they are too big to fail. Somebody who steals a few hundred dollars gets punished by the law, but not those who syphon off billions in style; they are too big to be challenged. Somebody who steals a few hundred dollars gets punished by the law, but not those who syphon off billions in style; they are too big to be challenged. What all of the above-mentioned leaders have in common is their relentless pursuit of money and power. The first sooner or later takes the form of greed, a deadly sin of the past that has in recent years been fully rehabilitated. It has become the very respectable end of improving your baseline, creating value for your shareholders, etc. Who would dare argue with that? No matter if in the process the average worker is squeezed, jobs are shifted to ever cheaper places, the Earths resources are extracted in unprecedented quantities, and inequalities grow ever-bigger, with the 26 richest individuals having as much wealth as the poorer half of humanity or 3,8 billion people, according to Oxfam. Returning to political leaders, the pursuit of power is not only something that one finds in authoritarian regimes. Sure, ambition drives people in politics all over the world. It is now becoming the norm even in mature democracies, though, to focus on getting the votes needed to get the leadership position by any means available, legitimate or not. Once you have it you then try to extract as many benefits as possible, undermining institutions and balancing mechanisms, eroding civic and other rights. Mr Trump personifies this today but cannot be held solely responsible for the sad state of affairs globally. The two deadly sins of greed and power lust have become accepted qualities of modern leaders. Even worse, these two have infected each and every person to some extent. The two deadly sins of greed and power lust have become accepted qualities of modern leaders. Even worse, these two have infected each and every person to some extent. It is not only our attitudes but also our thoughts and imagination that are captive of the seductive power of these two. We project ourselves into the future as a successful individual and what we see is that we have lots of money and power. We consider this to be the purpose of life and admire those who achieve it, even if they leave dead bodies, metaphorically or even literally, behind on their path. This does not mean, however, that morality and ethics are irrelevant or obsolete. Ethical behaviour represents the collective wisdom of humanity distilled over millennia of trials and errors; greed and power lust only feed the now and the short-term. There is room for leaders of all kinds, and more than room there is a need for people with vision and organising skills. What there is no need and neither should there be room for is people moved only or primarily by money, power and instant gratification. This does not mean, however, that morality and ethics are irrelevant or obsolete. Lets revive, or create if it was never really there, the ideal of serving the community and the world, a certain sense of decency, proportionality and public service, which is independent of ones being formally a public servant or not. We need leaders that remain connected to the real needs of people and stay close enough to pull everybody up with them, rather than robbing the poor folk and heading for the stars all by themselves. Okay, I am prepared to give the new governor of Tobago one-half an apology for writing last week that he is a fool. Be nice to the young man, nah... he trying to put together an energetic team to first salvage, then turn around the islands economy... - Kenyans in the diaspora complained of delays in issuance of travel documents - The president expected the three Cabinet secretaries to list concerns raised for future deliberations - Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri only bothered to write down what Uhuru said President Uhuru Kenyatta met Kenyans living in Namibia on Saturday, March 23, when he publicly chided three Cabinet secretaries who accompanied him for the three-day official visit. The president who was keenly following and listening to concerns raised by Kenyans in diaspora had observed Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri only bothered to jot down notes when he (Uhuru) stood up to speak. Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens. READ ALSO: Kenyans not amused as Uhuru deletes social media accounts after fiery anti-graft post Foreign Affairs CS Monica Juma in past event. President Uhuru warned to to deal with delays in issuance of travel documents. Photo: Monica Juma/Facebook. Source: Twitter READ ALSO: Polisi Bomet wamkamata baba aliyewaua watoto wake 3 baada ya ugomvi na mke wake I am looking now at my brother Kiunjuri, he has just opened his note pad to write down what I am saying. He was not interested in noting down what these Kenyans are saying maybe because it had nothing to do with Agriculture. "But he forgets he is a minister of the Republic of Kenya and whatever is said he should be interested to know. The same applies to Munya. I have a long-serving PA (Jomo Gecaga), he is just looking at his watch," he said. But it was not Kiunjuri alone who was literally dipped into the frying pan. His Cabinet colleagues including Foreign Affairs' Monica Juma as well as Trade CS Peter Munya also bowed in shame as the Head of State gave them a dress down. READ ALSO: Kenyans slam State House officials for editing Uhuru's video warning corrupt close allies This is not the first time the the Agriculture CS Kiunjuri is at the receiving end of anger and frustration from the Head of State in public. Photo: Mwangi Kiunjuri/Facebook. Source: UGC READ ALSO: State House official hints Uhurus social media pages hacked because of his tough stance on corruption The president's personal aide Jomo Gacage too had his share of troubles. "Its time we started addressing ourselves to realities, Monica I will not say this again, we must agree on a system. We discussed it when we were in France that we will start country by country registering Kenyans in diaspora. We heard it in France, Dubai. Why should these people be made to pay money, to fly to Kenya, just to get a passport in order to get back to work?" an agitated Uhuru posed. Delayed in issuance of vital travel documents featured prominently during the meeting with majority complaining of nauseating government bureaucracy. However, this is not the first time the the Agriculture boss is at the receiving end of anger and frustration from the Head of State in public. During the 2018 Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kakamega, Uhuru warned the CS to deal with maize cartels or face the music. "The ball is in your court Kiunjuri. You need to ensure all those thieves are arrested and prosecuted or else you will pay the price for their sins," the president said. Do you have a life-changing story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. The Man Who Accepted Uhuru Kenyatta's Rejected House - TUKO TV Source: Tuko.co.ke Russian occupation forces violated ceasefire six times, using weapons banned under the Minsk agreements five times, in the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) area in eastern Ukraine over the past day. In the zone of action of tactical force East, the invaders used 120mm mortars and grenade launchers to shell Ukrainian strongholds near Vodiane (16km north-west of Donetsk); sniper's weapon outside Novomykhailivka (28km south-west of Donetsk), the JFO Headquarters press center reports on Facebook. In the zone of action of tactical force North, Russian-led forces fired 82mm and 120mm mortars on Ukrainian troops in the area of Novooleksandrivka (65km west of Luhansk); 120mm mortars outside Novozvanivka (70km west of Luhansk); hand-held anti-tank grenade launchers, heavy machine guns and small arms outside Zolote-1 (60km west of Luhansk). One Ukrainian soldier was killed as a result of the shelling. The Joint Forces returned fire in response to the enemys shelling. Tree invaders were killed and five more were wounded. Today, the Russian-led armed formations have not opened fire yet. The Joint Forces reliably control the enemy on the contact line, adhering to the ceasefire regime. ish In the letter that was addressed to Avakov on March 15, French Ambassador Isabelle Dumont wrote on behalf of her fellow ambassadors that "the G7 group is concerned by extreme political movements in Ukraine, whose violent actions are worrying in themselves." As the Ukrainian presidential election nears, the world's leading industrialized nations have some strong words for Ukraine's top cop amid recent far-right violence in Kyiv and other cities. G7 ambassadors are urging Arsen Avakov, the interior minister, to act against violent political extremist groups who might threaten to disrupt the upcoming vote and usurp the role of the Ukrainian National Police and to consider outlawing them down the road, RFE/RL wrote. Read alsoU.S. Ambassador stresses need to prevent violence by extremist groups during presidential election in Ukraine They are both tricky requests, considering Avakov's personal ties to those same groups and authorities' approval for one of them to monitor the election. But the ambassadors are being more cautious when it comes to concerns over perceived dirty politicking among Ukraine's 39 presidential hopefuls, reportedly rebuffing a U.S. proposal to raise that issue in writing due to a lack of consensus on how to do so without providing campaign ammunition to specific candidates. The abortive appeal emerged after RFE/RL obtained copies of two letters prepared by the G7 Ambassadors' Support Group for Ukraine one sent privately and the other drafted but watered down before being shared publicly. RFE/RL also spoke to three Western diplomats with knowledge of those texts and the related discussions. The ambassadors' group comprises envoys from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In the letter that was addressed to Avakov on March 15, French Ambassador Isabelle Dumont wrote on behalf of her fellow ambassadors that "the G7 group is concerned by extreme political movements in Ukraine, whose violent actions are worrying in themselves." "They intimidate Ukrainian citizens, attempt to usurp the role of the National Police in safeguarding elections, and damage the Ukrainian government's national and international reputation," Dumont continued, in a thinly veiled reference to the National Corps and National Militia, the far-right Azov group's political and vigilante wings, respectively. The letter, in English and Ukrainian, was delivered to Avakov's ministry the same day, according to a Western diplomat. Interior Ministry spokesman Artem Shevchenko confirmed to RFE/RL that Avakov had received it. Boyko said he would like Ukraine to resume gas purchases from Russia, which should lower the skyrocketing utility bills for Ukrainians. A Ukrainian presidential candidate has traveled to Moscow to meet with the Russian prime minister to discuss gas supplies. Read alsoComedian Zelensky remains frontrunner in Ukraine presidential race: Poll Yuri Boyko, a rare openly pro-Russian candidate, trails far behind a comedian, a former premier and the incumbent president in opinion polls ahead of Ukraine's presidential election on March 31, according to The Associated Press. Boyko spoke with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev on Friday in the meeting that was televised live on Ukrainian television. Boyko said he would like Ukraine to resume gas purchases from Russia, which should lower the skyrocketing utility bills for Ukrainians. The very visit is rare for Ukrainian politicians these days, since any connections to Russia are largely regarded as toxic because of Russia's annexation of the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and its ongoing support for separatists in the deadly conflict in Ukraine's east. Poroshenko says his goal of decentralization is a country without a periphery. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has highlighted the importance of the decentralization reform for Ukraine's development. "From the first day on my post, I realized: initiatives are needed that will give a quick and positive result throughout Ukraine. Targeted projects under the patronage of central government will not be enough. Despite the war, people have to see changes everywhere, and even more importantly, people must become the makers of change themselves. And it is despite the fact that the war does not give us the room for mistake. If the initiative does not work, there may not be a second chance to carry out reforms," he said during the participation in the Regional Development Council in Chernivtsi region, according to the president's press service. "My goal of decentralization is a country without a periphery. This is a country of free, happy and prosperous people," Poroshenko said. Read alsoPM Groysman announces second stage of decentralization reform He recalled the adopted law on decentralization, the submitted corresponding constitutional amendments. "I thank that former Prime Minister Yatsenyuk and current Prime Minister Groysman, other members of the government supported this initiative. And most importantly, the initiative of decentralization was supported by the people, who actively embarked on the position of decentralization," Poroshenko said. "We said: now you make your own decisions, protect them in front of the communities when the whole community is discussing them, and report to the people on every hryvnia. And one more, perhaps most important. Decentralization is not when every man is for himself. On the contrary, decentralization is the unity of the state, the unity of all of us for the sake of a common goal," the president said. "Decentralization is now confidently paving its way. This is evidenced by the first results and the readiness of people to work for the sake of changes in the life of communities and the whole of Ukraine," Poroshenko added. The situation in the area of the Joint Forces Operation remains under control of Ukrainian troops. Russia's hybrid military forces mounted one attack on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas on March 23. Read alsoOne Ukrainian soldier killed, one wounded in Donbas in past day "No Ukrainian soldiers were killed or wounded from 00:00 to 18:00 Kyiv time," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) said in an update on Facebook. The enemy opened fire from weapons installed on an infantry fighting vehicle and a tripod-mounted man-portable antitank gun at the Ukrainian positions near the village of Zolote-4. The situation in the area of the Joint Forces Operation remains under control of Ukrainian troops. Though the defeat of Islamic State in Baghouz ends the group's grip over the jihadist quasi-state straddling Syria and Iraq that it declared in 2014, it remains a threat. U.S.-backed forces said they had captured Islamic State's last shred of territory in eastern Syria at Baghouz on Saturday, ending the group's self-proclaimed caliphate after years of fighting. "Baghouz has been liberated. The military victory against Daesh has been accomplished," Mustafa Bali, a Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) spokesman, wrote on Twitter, declaring the "total elimination of (the) so-called caliphate." However, a Reuters journalist at Baghouz said there were still some sounds of shooting and mortar fire. Read alsoIslamic State faces final territorial defeat in eastern Syria battle Reuters The final battle lasted weeks as huge numbers of civilians poured out, and for many Kurdish fighters in the SDF, victory was sweeter as it coincided with their "Now Ruz" new year. Though the defeat of Islamic State in Baghouz ends the group's grip over the jihadist quasi-state straddling Syria and Iraq that it declared in 2014, it remains a threat. Some of its fighters still hold out in Syria's remote central desert and in Iraqi cities they have slipped into the shadows, staging sudden shootings or kidnappings and awaiting a chance to rise again. The United States believes the group's leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is in Iraq. He stood at the pulpit of the great medieval mosque in Mosul in 2014 to declare himself caliph, sovereign over all Muslims. Further afield, jihadists in Afghanistan, Nigeria and elsewhere have shown no sign of recanting their allegiance to Islamic State, and intelligence services say its devotees in the West might plot new attacks. Still, the fall of Baghouz is a big milestone in a fight against the jihadist group waged by numerous local and global forces some of them sworn enemies over more than four years. It also marks a big moment in Syria's eight-year war, wiping out the territory of one of the main contestants, with the rest split between President Bashar al-Assad, Turkey-backed rebels and the Kurdish-led SDF. Assad and his Iranian allies have sworn to recapture all Syria, and Turkey has threatened to drive out the SDF, which it sees as a terrorist group, by force. The continued presence of U.S. troops in northeast Syria might avert this. A White House statement said the discussion covered trade, the Brexit debate in Britain, and upcoming meetings. U.S. President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have spoken by phone on issues including NATO funding, Ukraine, and trade, officials from the White House and German government say. The official on March 22 said the call took place shortly after Trump began a weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, according to Radio Liberty. Read alsoPoroshenko, Merkel in Munich discuss ways to counter Russia's aggression against Ukraine A White House statement said the discussion covered trade, the Brexit debate in Britain, and upcoming meetings. A senior administration official said the conversation also covered funding for the NATO alliance. Trump has long criticized Germany and other NATO allies for not paying enough for their own defense and burdening U.S. taxpayers with too much of the cost. German government spokesman Steffen Seibert said the conversation also covered issues related to Ukraine without being specific. Ukrainian government forces have been fighting against Russia-backed separatists in Ukraine's eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk since April 2014 in a conflict that has killed some 13,000 people a quarter of them civilians. Moscow has also seized and annexed Ukraine's Crimea region in a move not recognized by the international community. The United Arab Emirates has continued to provide aid to the residents of Al Mukalla in Yemen through its humanitarian arm, the Emirates Red Crescent, ERC MUKALLA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 22nd Mar, 2019) The United Arab Emirates has continued to provide aid to the residents of Al Mukalla in Yemen through its humanitarian arm, the Emirates Red Crescent, ERC. The ERC distributed an aid package today to People of Determination registered with Al Tumooh Society. The aid package included 300 food baskets, weighting 23 tonnes in total, to 1,500 individuals, who expressed their thanks and appreciation to the leadership and people of the UAE. The Pakistan International Airline (PIA) has approved a new policy for ground jobs of cabin crew KARACHI (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / NNI - 23rd March, 2019) The Pakistan International Airline (PIA) has approved a new policy for ground jobs of cabin crew. PIA Chief Executive Officer Air Marshal Arshad Malik has given approval for the new policy. The policy would be applicable for permanent and contractual employees, read the notification issued in this regard.Application could only be submitted for ground service on completion of 10 years of service.The airline management would itself decide to appoint cabin crew in any department. Following approval of the management for ground job, the employee would not be allowed for flight service. "Employees will be bound to perform the duty and shift assigned to them on ground service," said the notification.It said they could be called for flight duty, when needed. "Selected and top performer cabin crew may be deputed on ground jobs only within Flight Services Department purely on company requirement with valid justification. They may be called back for flying duties subject to the company requirement," the company circular read."The grounded cabin crew will mark their attendance through TMS and all rules of leave/ promotions etc, shall be applicable to the grounded crew as applicable to admin category employees," it added. NNI Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel attends an event for Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., in Clawson, Mich., Monday, March 18, 2019. The Michigan attorney general's office has settled a lawsuit by same-sex couples who say their rights have been violated by faith-based adoption agencies that don't want to work with gays and lesbians. Under the settlement announced Friday, March 22, 2019 the state says it will enforce non-discrimination provisions in its foster care and adoption agency contracts. Nessel initiated settlement talks. She says discrimination in foster care and adoption services is "illegal." (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) The funeral of the slain Capuchin priest and former Director of Radio Siriri, Fr. Toussaint Zoumalde, has taken place Friday in the Central African Republic (CAR) town of Bouar amidst scenes of pain but unshakable hope. Paul Samasumo Vatican city We all raise our voice to the Lord asking him, How long are we going to walk in this darkness? said the Bishop of Bouar, Mirosaw Gucwa, in his homily based on Psalm 23:4. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me. A Christian community united in grief Bishop Mirosaw began by consoling family members of Fr. Toussaint, friends, Capuchin Friars and the Christian community gathered to mourn a much-loved priest. Some among the faithful carry their own stories of tragic loss. Since receiving the sad news of the tragic death of Father Toussaint, I can say we are walking through the valley of the shadow of death. In particular, we have in mind the family of Father Toussaint, his brothers and sisters, his uncles and aunts, his cousins -some of whom are here present and are going through a difficult and dark time. We also feel with the religious family of Capuchin Fathers who have lost their brother, the Bishop said. The Bishop assured the broken-hearted family and friends: The whole Christian community here is supporting you with prayer during this time of trial. Fr. Toussaint had just concluded a visit to his native country Fr. Toussaint Zoumalde, a native of the Central African Republic was killed in Ngaoundere, Cameroon on his way to Baibokoum, Chad where he was based. The market town of Bouar is in the western part of the country and on the main road leading from Bangui to the border with Cameroon. According to a statement released by the General Custody of the Capuchins for Chad and the Central African Republic, Fr. Toussaint, had just concluded a visit to his native country and was on his way back to Chad. He passed through Cameroon where he made an overnight stop at Ngaoundere (Cameroon). Sometime in the night between 19 and 20 March, unknown people attacked and killed him. In the homily, Bishop Mirosaw said the circumstances of Fr. Toussaints death were still unclear. We still do not know the precise circumstances of his tragic death. We can only imagine and feel in our mind his suffering during his last moments of life, Bishop Mirosaw said. Do not lose hope Amidst the pain, the Bishop told the people not lose hope. Through faith, we are convinced that death does not have the last word, it will be defeated by life, and darkness gives way to the Light. We also pray for the perpetrators of this crime. May justice be done, and this justice help them to change their hearts, he said. Born in 1971, Fr. Toussaint was ordained priest in 2002. During the last 17 years of priestly ministry, he worked in different dioceses, studied in Rome, Italy and taught at Saint Laurent Seminary in CAR. For several years, during a difficult period in the political life of CAR, Fr. Toussaint was the Director of the Diocesan Radio "Siriri." He steered the radio in such a way that it became an instrument of "social cohesion." There was also some small consolation in that Fr Toussaint spent the last few weeks of his life visiting family and friends in CAR. The Bishops of Venezuela have condemned the arrest of the opposition leaders Chief of Staff saying the move violates his fundamental human rights . Marrero's arrest came as the US slapped new sanctions on the country's development bank. By James Blears Venezuela's bishops have issued a statement condemning the arrest of the opposition leaders Chief of Staff. The statement, released on Friday, said Roberto Marreros arrest on Thursday violated his fundamental rights as set forth in the constitution. Meanwhile, as US President Donald Trump met with the leaders of Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Bahamas, St Lucia and Jamaica at his Mar a Lago resort in Florida, the Treasury Department delivered a chilling economic blast to Venezuela. It follows the arrest of Roberto Marrero, the Chief of Staff of self declared Interim President Juan Guaido, on Thursday in the middle of the night, when agents smashed down the door of his Caracas home. The Venezuelan Ministry of Interior accuses him of being part of a terrorist cell and planning acts of sabotage. Guaido says that weapons and foreign currency found at his colleague`s house were planted. The US sanctions are aimed at Venezuela`s National Development Bank and four of its subsidiaries. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has caustically stated: "The regime`s continued use of kidnappings, torture and murder, will not be tolerated by the US nor the International Coalition." Earlier this week UN Human Rights Chief Michelle Bachelet who`s the former President of Chile, said that US sanctions on financial transfers connected to the oil industry would significantly aggravate its already deepening economic crisis, commenting: "Divisions are exacerbating an already critical situation." She also said that Venezuelan Government forces have used excessive force. As usual it`s the Venezuelan people, who`ll be hit hardest by these latest strictures. Today Vegas PBS held a free Women, Leadership and Social Justice screening and town hall event with special guest filmmaker, philanthropist, and producer Abigail Disney. Attendees watched a live recording of Vegas PBS public affairs show Nevada Week followed by a preview screening of the PBS documentary Women, War & Peace II. Vegas PBS Holds Women, War & Peace II Screening and Town Hall Event with Special Guest Abigail Disney httpvh://youtu.be/CptV3zl4LDY The screening was followed by a town hall discussion with panelists who empower and mobilize women and the community to engage and act on social justice issues. The event was held Friday, March 22 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Vegas PBS Educational Technology Campus, 3050 East Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89121. The town hall panel included Abigail Disney and the following: Moderator Rebecca Gill, Director of the Womens Research Institute of Nevada and UNLV political science professor Erika Castro, Organizing Manager of The Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada and leader of the Nevada Immigration Coalition Kelly Smyth-Dent, Director of Scaling Up Elynne Greene, Manager of Southern Nevada Human Trafficking Task Force for Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sybrina Bernabei, Advocacy Services Coordinator for Gender Justice Nevada Jonnette Paddy, UNLV student activist, member of the Dine Nation These powerful leaders discussed how something as simple as telling a story can be the catalyst for change, among other topics. The event included a spoken word performances by Iris Pamela Vargas and Alyssa Cortes. Vegas PBS Holds Women, War & Peace II Screening and Town Hall Event with Special Guest Abigail Disney httpvh://youtu.be/CaumjlGGYpM Women, War & Peace II features an all-female cast of directors presenting four never-before-told stories about the women who risked their lives for peace, changing history in the process. The four-part series airs Monday, March 25 and Tuesday, March 26 from 911 p.m. on Vegas PBS Channel 10. Representatives and resources from the following organizations were available: Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth Refuge for Women PLAN Action Fund Nevada Department of Veteran Services Nevada Chapter, National Organization of Women (NOW) Sierra Club Southern Nevada Group Elder HelpLv ACLU of Nevada CASA Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Las Vegas The event is part of the Women, War & Peace National Community Engagement Initiative and is funded by the Compton Foundation. Michele Rothstein, owner of award-winning Balloons With A Twist, is joining the fight to end cancer by committing to raise funds to be allocated to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Las Vegas, Power In Purple campaign. Rothstein exclaims, I am thrilled to have been nominated for the Power In Purple campaign along with a group of amazing, inspirational women. My mother passed away from Glioblastoma, brain cancer, a few years ago, and I am honored to be part of the Power In Purple campaign in her memory. With nearly half of her goal raised, Rothstein strives to obtain donations to complete her goal by 100 percent. Many friends, colleagues and professionals have answered the call by helping Rothstein reach her personal goal. Michele Rothstein was awarded Best Event Planner for 2017 and 2018 in the Las Vegas Review Journals Best of Las Vegas program. In addition, she was honored in 2018 the Women of Wonder recognition by Deluxe Version Magazinefor her work in the community. In 2018, Rothstein also launched www.mastercalendarlasvegas.com and the ancillary social media channels @mastercalendarL (Twitter) @mastercalendarlv (Facebook and Instagram). Master Calendar Las Vegas lists fundraisers and social gatherings and lets organizations add their own. Future fundraising events will be announced on Master Calendar Las Vegas online for those that would like to support Power In Purple and attend. Rothstein is the Vice President of the Board of Directors for Create a Change Now, a local non-profit fighting childhood obesity. She supports numerous other charities like the Make A Wish Foundation, Aid For AIDS of Nevada, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, St. Judes Ranch for Children and New Vista. The Power In Purple campaign is a group of community leaders who are committed to raising awareness and funds for this years American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Las Vegas. Their mission is to save lives and celebrate life. The communitys support of Power In Purple will help move one step closer toward achieving a world free from the pain and suffering of cancer. Bill English preparing for the 1968 Demo. (SRI International) Bill English and crew preparing for the 1968 Demo, including volunteer Stewart Brand (kneeling). (SRI International) Bill English and crew preparing for the 1968 Demo, including volunteer Stewart Brand (operating camera). (SRI International) A scene from Doug Engelbarts groundbreaking 1968 computer demo. (Doug Engelbart Institute) A prototype of Engelbarts first computer mouse. (APIC/Getty Images) Engelbart promulgated a philosophy of 'bootstrapping', in which each experimental transformation of the socio-technical system that was the NLS would feed back into the system itself, causing it to evolve (and presumably to improve). Herman Miller designers collaborated with Engelbart to create custom office furniture in time for the demo, including this custom swivel keyboard console with space for mouse and keyset, mounted on a Eames-style captains chair. (Arc Bootstrapper) Doug Engelbart presenting the computer mouse at what came to be called the Mother of All Demos in 1968. (APIC/Getty Images) In the America of 1968, computers werent at all personal. They were refrigerator-sized behemoths that hummed and blinked, calculating everything from consumer habits to missile trajectories, cloistered deep within corporate offices, government agencies and university labs. Their secrets were accessible only via punch card and teletype terminals.On December 9, 1968, Doug Engelbart and his Augmentation Research Center (ARC) at SRI staged a 90-minute public multimedia demonstration which presaged many of the technologies we use today.The demonstration is hailed as one of the most significant technological presentations in history, showcasing technologies that have become what we now know as modern computing. He gave the first public demonstration of a computer mouse, a graphical user interface, windowed computing, hypertext, word processing, video conferencing, and much more.During the presentation, Engelbart used his mouse prototype to move around the screen, highlight text, and resize windows. This was the first time that an integrated system for manipulating text onscreen was presented publicly. Engelbart would simultaneously appear on a portion of the projected screen, along with the computers output and then demonstrated collaborative editing and teleconferencing. At separate times, his Augment associates Jeff Rulifson and Bill Paxton appeared in another portion of the screen to help edit the text remotely from ARC. While they were editing they could see each others screen, talk and see each other as well. He further demonstrated that clicking on underlined text would then link to another page of information, demonstrating the concept of hypertext.When he finished the demonstration, the audience gave him a standing ovation. To further demonstrate the system, a separate room was set aside so that attendees could take a closer look at the NLS workstations and ask Engelbart questions. One last notion is that of Engelbarts NLS system. As Fred Turner stated in his bookDouglas Engelbart had assembled a team of computer engineers and programmers at his Augmentation Research Center (ARC) located in Stanford Universitys Stanford Research Institute (SRI) in the early 1960s. His idea was to free computing from merely being about number crunching and for it to become a tool for communications and information-retrieval. He wanted to turn Vannevar Bushs idea for a Memex machine into reality, where a machine used interactively by one person could Augment their intelligence. Over the course of six years, with the funding help of both NASA and ARPA, his team went about putting together all the elements that would make such a computer system a reality. At the urging of ARPAs director, Robert Taylor, the NLS would make its first public appearance at the 1968 Fall Joint Computer Conference in San Franciscos Civic Auditorium.The conference session was presented under the title. Approximately 1,000 computer professionals were in attendance in the auditorium to witness the presentation. Notable attendees in the audience included Alan Kay, Charles Irby and Andy van Dam, as well as Bob Sproull.Engelbart, with the help of his geographically distributed team, and with Bill English directing the presentations technical elements, demonstrated NLSs functions. The presentation used an Eidophor video projector that allowed the video output from the NLS computer to be displayed on a large 6.7 metres (22 ft) high screen so the audience could see what Engelbart was doing. Additionally, live video of him and his associates from ARC in Menlo Park, about 48 kilometers (30 mi) away, was combined with the computers output on the Eidophor. The Augment researchers also created two customized homemade modems at 1200 baud high-speed for 1968 linked via a leased line to transfer data from the computer workstation keyboard and mouse at the Civic Auditorium to their Menlo Park headquarters SDS-940 computer. In order to provide live two-way video between the lab and the conference hall, two microwave links were used. English also commanded a video switcher that controlled what was displayed on the big screen. The camera operator in Menlo Park was Stewart Brandat the time, a non-computer person, best known as the editor of the Whole Earth Catalogwho also advised Engelbart and the team about how to present the demo.The demonstration was highly influential and spawned similar projects at Xerox PARC in the early 1970s. The underlying technologies influenced both the Apple Macintosh and Microsoft Windows graphical user interface operating systems in the 1980s and 1990s. Chinese companies deliver innovative, high-quality devices at a lower cost than their rivals Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi has become one of the fastest-growing brands in Vietnam since its local debut two years ago. Xiaomi first entered Vietnam with its distributor agreement on March 15, 2017. Steven Shi, Xiaomi's head of Southeast Asia, said, We started with nothing here other than some very loyal Mi Fans. In the two years that have passed, we have built a brand that sees us Number 4 in the market, oversees a range of Mi stores spanning the nation, and offers a full ecosystem of products. Xiaomi continues to strike the Vietnamese market with the recent launch of the all-new Redmi Note 7. This stellar new smartphone set a sales record in China, selling over a million units. Set for a similar fate on Vietnamese shores, the device boasts a category-leading 48 MP camera housed inside a stunningly-designed body. The Redmi Note 7 will be available in three configurations, priced between VND3.99 million and VND5.96 million ($171.57-256.28). Meanwhile, Huawei, another Chinese company, made its debut in Vietnam in March 2018 with its Y series and Honor brand. It aims to aggressively expand in the market in the future. Huawei has tied up with one of Vietnams top gaming firms, VNG, to boost growth. Vietnam is one of our key target markets in Southeast Asia, a strategic ground for Honor to continue offering state-of-art products and innovations," said Akin Li, president of Honor in Southeast Asia. Chinese smartphone maker OPPO remains the second-largest brand in Vietnam, trailing behind Samsung. Over the past few years, Samsung and OPPO have been locked in competition to secure even higher market shares. Commenting on the prospects of the smartphone market in 2019, Vo Le Tam Thanh, local analyst at IDC Indochina, said that Xiaomi and Huawei would continue to boost activities to take over the market share of other brands, as the market has become saturated. Meanwhile, Samsung and OPPO also continued to retain their leading positions in revenue and profit. Chinese companies like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Huawei have been expanding aggressively in Vietnam in recent years. Analysts say competitive prices and innovative features in the devices are increasingly appealing to Vietnamese consumers. Gulf needs to compete with other investors for the Ca Na projects (Illustration image, source: PetroVietnam) Gulf Energy Development (Gulf) from Thailand plans to develop a liquefied natural gas (LNG) warehouse and gas-fired power complex with the total capacity of 6,000MW in Ca Na commune, Thuan Nam district. The construction may be implemented under the build-operate-transfer (BOT) model. According to Pham Van Hau, deputy chairman of the Ninh Thuan Peoples Committee, Gulf is seeking approval for the planning of Ca Na power centre. Once the planning is approved, the province will issue criteria to select investors for the project and Gulf is one of the potential investors. It is not the first time that Gulf expressed interest in developing the project. Previously, in November 2018, the group participated in a working session with provincial leaders to discuss a plan to invest in a gas-to-power complex with the capacity of 6,000MWand build a sea port with the capacity of 6 million tonnes per year. In the same month, Total Group from France and representatives of the Ninh Thuan Peoples Committee signed an agreement to study to develop the Ca Na power complex with the total capacity of 4,500MW. Accordingly, Total will co-operate with Siemens, Vovatek (Russia), and Vietnam A&A Technology and Investment Co., Ltd. to invest in the Ca Na power complex with the total investment capital of $1.2 billion. Gulf keeps an eye on numerous projects in Vietnam. Notably, in April 2018, Gulf and TTC Group established the joint venture TTC Green Energy Investment JSC (Gulf holds 49 per cent) to build a solar power plant in Trang Bang district of Tay Ninh province. Covering an area of 78.42 hectares, the projecthas a total investment capital of $66 million and the capacity of 48MW. It is expected to start operations in June this year. Chronology of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft since its certification by the US Federal Aviation Administration in 2017. (Graphic: AFP) The move could spark more cancellations from other major carriers, an aviation analyst said, as Boeing and US federal regulators get set to face their first public grilling by Congress since the deadly incidents. "We have sent a letter to Boeing requesting that the order be cancelled," Garuda spokesman Ikhsan Rosan said. "The reason is that Garuda passengers in Indonesia have lost trust and no longer have the confidence" in the plane, he said, adding that the airline was awaiting a response from Boeing. Boeing officials will visit Indonesia next week to discuss Garuda's plans to call off the order, he told AFP. Garuda had already received one of the planes, Rosan said, part of a 50-aircraft order worth US$4.9 billion at list prices when it was announced in 2014. Garuda is also talking to Boeing about whether or not to return the plane it has in its fleet, the spokesman said. The Indonesian carrier had so far paid Boeing about US$26 million, while the company's head told local media outlet Detik that it would consider switching to a new version of the single-aisle jet. "In principle, it's not that we want to replace Boeing, but maybe we will replace (these planes) with another model," Garuda Indonesia director I Gusti Ngurah Askhara Danadiputra told Detik. A Boeing spokeswoman in Singapore told AFP on Friday (Mar 22): "We do not comment on customer discussions." "PROBABLY NOT THE LAST" Shukor Yusof, head of Malaysia-based aviation consultancy Endau Analytics, said Garuda's announcement appeared to mark the first formal plans by a carrier to cancel an order for the 737 MAX 8. It "will probably not be the last. There is a risk that Garuda's rival Lion Air, which also has many 737 MAX 8 orders, might make the same decision," he said. "That is a risk. This has been made public by the Lion Air CEO. He stated publicly that he is considering" a cancellation. But he added that it was difficult to predict whether more major carriers would follow suit. "There are many unanswered questions and each airline has specific needs," Yusof said. This month, Lion Air said it was postponing delivery of four of the jets after an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 went down minutes into a flight to Nairobi, killing all 157 people on board. The Ethiopian tragedy came after a Lion Air jet of the same model crashed in Indonesia in October, killing all 189 people on board. Budget carrier Lion - Southeast Asia's biggest airline by fleet size and a major Boeing customer - said the now-postponed planes had been on track for delivery this year. Lion did not immediately respond to AFP's request Friday for comment on its current plans following Garuda's announcement. Lion Air operates 10 Max 8 jets, part of a then-record us$22 billion order from Boeing made in 2011. The airlines are the only two that use the Max 8 in Indonesia. Both crashed planes reportedly experienced erratic steep climbs and descents as well as fluctuating airspeeds before crashing shortly after takeoff. Investigators have honed in on an automated anti-stalling system introduced on the plane that is designed to point the nose of the plane downward if it is in danger of stalling. From now on, all Boeing's state-of-the-art model will be outfitted with a warning light for malfunctions in the anti-stall system, an industry source told AFP Thursday, standardising a feature previously sold as an expensive optional extra. The development comes as the US manufacturer struggles to cope with the fallout from the two crashes, which have cast a spotlight on the safety certification process and shaken confidence in a plane that is crucial to its future plans. Boeing and the US Federal Aviation Administration are under investigation by the Transportation Department for how the rollout of the jet was handled, including the anti-stall system. Taiwan, faced with an increase in military spending by its main rival China, is seeking a range of new, advanced weapons systems from the United States, officials in Taipei confirmed this week. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said Tuesday in Taipei that her government had made a formal request to the United States for advanced fighter jets. Local media say she wants 66 American-made F-16 Viper fighter jets, an upgrade over Taiwans existing F-16 fleet. A defense ministry spokesperson reached Wednesday did not rule out that possibility. Taiwans armed forces rank 22nd in the world. China ranks much higher, behind only the United States and Russia, and outspends Taiwan on weaponry. This year Beijing announced a 7.5 percent defense budget increase, compared with Taipeis 5.6 percent hike this year. And with Chinese threats to reunify with the self-ruled island, by force if necessary, regional analysts say Taiwan is keen to boost its military preparedness, with U.S. help, to counter any threat from the mainland. I think its trying to emphasize that Taiwan is a very close U.S. ally and also sending a political message that we are urgently in need of U.S. support, said Andrew Yang, secretary-general of the think tank Chinese Council of Advanced Policy Studies in Taiwan. Chinas modernization Chinas Peoples Liberation Army is restructuring and advancing technologically, the U.S. defense department said in its annual report to Congress last year. Its eyeing Taiwan in particular, the report says. To restructure the armed forces, China has shifted personnel away from the army to its navy and air force to win any local wars characterized by real-time, data-networked command and control, and precision strike, the Pentagon report says. To modernize, China is shifting toward outer space technology and cyber capabilities, the report says. Because for the past few years Chinas investment in defense has been extremely fast, that has caused this severe imbalance. Taiwan basically must arm and defend itself, so we hope that in terms of defense we can achieve a sense of balance and develop what we need to develop, Taiwan ruling party legislator Lee Chun-yi said. For the current arms sale request, he said, thats our initial motivation. Defense analysts have said Taiwan would best resist China through asymmetrical warfare, meaning effective resistance of an enemy with targeted firepower rather than overwhelming force. Informal U.S. alliance U.S. officials will evaluate the purchase request for 120 working days, Taiwan defense ministry spokesman Chen Chung-chi said. They would decide, he said, what exact kinds of aircraft and other weapons systems, such as radars, Taiwan should buy. An arms package would probably include training for Taiwans armed forces, Chen said. Defense officials in Washington declined to comment on the latest request. Although China bristles whenever the U.S. government announces arms sales to Taiwan, Washington cites a 40-year-old congressional act that allows it to defend the island. The United States sees Taiwan as one of several democratic friends in the Western Pacific, valuable as China becomes more powerful militarily and economically. President Donald Trumps administration has particularly favored Taiwan as it pressures China over trade issues. The administration agreed to sell Taiwan $1.42 billion in advanced arms in mid-2017. In October last year, the U.S. Congress approved a $330 million sale of spare parts for military aircraft and other weaponry. Existing Taiwanese air force jets, including older F-16s, Mirage 2000s and domestically produced fighters, are aging after 20 years of use, Chen said. To keep up with Chinas ceaseless military research and development as well as frequent exercises off the coast, Taiwan needs better planes, Chen said. We hope this purchase of advanced fighters will let us improve our air defense safety. Chinas military power after all is always growing, so we need to have some defensive capability, Chen said. This is an extremely important key to maintaining peace in the region. Officials in southern Afghanistan say at least four people have died and more than 30 were wounded in twin blasts Saturday at an agricultural show, held as part of traditional New Year's celebrations. The explosions happened in Lashkar Gah, the capital of volatile Helmand province. Witnesses of the attack said that first, a small explosion happened inside a tent in the stadium. People then started to run toward the gates when a second blast hit the crowd. Helmand Governor Mohammad Yasin reportedly was knocked down by the explosion, but suffered only superficial injuries. There has been no immediate claim of responsibility, although the Taliban frequently carries out similar attacks. Eight children were killed on Saturday in the Sudanese city of Omdurman when an unidentified object they found exploded, a police spokesman told AFP. Seven children were killed on the spot, while the eighth one died of wounds at a hospital, Gen. Hashim Abdelrahim said. He said the children, who were thought to be searching for scrap that they later sell, came across a "strange object" that "exploded" when they handled it. The area where the incident took place in north Omdurman hosted a military facility several years ago. Sudanese state media confirmed that eight children had died in a blast. It did not offer details. Abdelrahim said police were investigating the incident. Many school-age children often have to resort to menial jobs to earn a living amid a worsening economic crisis that has seen food prices soar. The economic crisis has triggered nationwide protests for more than three months against the rule of President Omar al-Bashir. Bashir has remained defiant. He imposed a nationwide state of emergency on Feb. 22 to quell the demonstrations, seen as the biggest challenge to his three-decade rule. As the political and humanitarian tumult in Venezuela unfolds, analysts say illicit activities by Lebanese militant group Hezbollah in the South American country could be disrupted. Since the beginning of the crisis in January, many observers have been wondering about the future of the Lebanese militant group and its activities in Venezuela, particularly with growing U.S. sanctions on the Venezuelan government. For years, the government of embattled President Nicolas Maduro has maintained a close relationship with Hezbollah and its benefactor, Iran, which has empowered Hezbollah financially, analysts say. U.S. officials have been warning about Hezbollah's growing presence in Venezuela and elsewhere in Latin America. "People don't recognize that Hezbollah has active cells the Iranians are impacting the people of Venezuela and throughout South America," U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a recent interview with Fox Business Network. "We have an obligation to take down that risk for America," he said. U.S. sanctions Hezbollah, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, has been increasingly targeted by U.S. sanctions in the past few months. In October 2018, the Department of Justice named Hezbollah as one of the top five transnational criminal organizations in Latin America. In an attempt to step up efforts to prevent Hezbollah's illicit activities in the Western Hemisphere, the U.S. hosted a conference last December. It was attended by senior officials of 13 U.S. partners across the Americas who discussed threats posed by transnational terrorist groups. Analysts charge that recent U.S. sanctions against several key Hezbollah figures could ultimately harm the group's financial operations in Venezuela and elsewhere in Latin America. Hezbollah's financiers "have integrated themselves into [the Venezuelan] government in a variety of different ways," said Phillip Smyth, a research fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. "Everyone is kind of getting a cut from the apparatus. "So, it wouldn't shock me if there are reverberations down to Hezbollah's finance network. The way [the U.S.] Treasury has done this is they've targeted certain individuals that are kind of key brokers of the Hezbollah money, so it will have its effect," he told VOA. Analysts say the relationship between the Venezuelan government and Hezbollah is largely centered on a strategic partnership between Venezuela and Iran, which provides Hezbollah members, facilitators, financiers and fixers with the ability to covertly move people, money and material. Iran's "proxy Lebanese Hezbollah maintains facilitation networks throughout the region that cache weapons and raise funds, often via drug trafficking and money laundering," U.S. Southern Command's Adm. Craig Faller told the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee during a hearing last month. The convergence of Hezbollah's networks in Venezuela has created an environment that enables the Shiite group to move large amounts of money in illicit revenue, using gold refineries in the Middle East and financial hubs in Central and South America and the Caribbean, according to the Center for a Secure Free Society, a Washington-based research organization that has extensively researched Hezbollah's activities in Latin America. Vast network Some experts believe that Hezbollah has built a vast network that is made up of mostly underground Syrian-Venezuelans who facilitate movement for the group's members in the Middle East and Latin America. "Hezbollah is already helping Maduro through an established transregional network between Lebanon, Syria and Venezuela," said Joseph Humire, executive director of the Center for a Secure Free Society. "The main reason for Hezbollah supporting the Maduro regime is the same reason it protects the Bashar al-Assad government in Syria to protect the logistical network Iran needs to export its revolution," he told VOA. Since the outbreak of Syria's civil war in 2011, Iran and Hezbollah have been playing a major role defending the Syrian president against the rebel forces. "In the case of Syria, it's for the land bridge to Lebanon, and in the case of Venezuela, it's the air bridge to Latin America," Humire added. Smyth of the Washington Institute echoed a similar analysis of the entangling relationship between Venezuela and Hezbollah. "If you look at certain representatives that Venezuela has put in the Middle East as diplomatic staff, a lot of them are full-fledged Hezbollah supporters and are linked in a variety of ways to Hezbollah networks," Smith said. The role of Hugo Chavez Hezbollah's activities in Venezuela flourished during the term of former President Hugo Chavez, who died in 2013 and was succeeded by Maduro. "The presence of Hezbollah expanded during the time of [former Iranian President Mahmoud] Ahmadinejad, who opened the doors for Iranian and Lebanese businesses [and] facilitated trade for them in Venezuela through a cemented friendship he developed with Chavez," a Tehran-based journalist, who worked in Latin America for years, told VOA. He requested anonymity for security reasons. He added that many multimillion-dollar business ventures were established in those years. "Lebanese businessmen work with Hezbollah because it's a lucrative business, but some of them do it because their business interests in Lebanon could be under threat if they refuse to cooperate with Hezbollah in Venezuela," the Iranian journalist added. With growing pressures on Maduro's government, some analysts say it is unlikely that he would sever ties with Hezbollah. "Ideologically speaking, [Maduro] has thrown his lot in with groups like Hezbollah and with the Iranians. They have the same motivations, which are anti-American," analyst Smyth said. "These are the allies [Venezuelan government officials] have. I seriously doubt that they would cut [these allies off] as a signal to the U.S. ... I think they're in this for good," he added. The United Nations says the combined death toll in southern African nations affected by Cyclone Idai has exceeded 700. More than 400 of the deaths have occurred in Mozambique were aid groups are struggling to assist tens of thousands of people of the ground. Mozambique Minister of Land and Environment Celso Correia said the situation "is still critical, but it's getting better." He said some 1,500 people were in need of rescue from rooftops and trees and about 89,000 people had packed into displacement camps. Zimbabwe and Malawi are also struggling to deal with the aftermath of the cyclone. Aid workers said that number of dead in the three countries will certainly rise as flood waters continue to recede. Some 1.7 million people were affected by the storm, one of the most powerful to strike the region in decades. As storm victims labored to salvage personal possessions they were able to find, many residents in the affected areas worried about their future and shortages of essentials such as food, water and medicine. International aid efforts are coordinated by the World Food Program, or WFP. The agencys southern Africa director, Lola Castro, told VOA on Friday relief groups are confronted with a humongous logistics challenge to help victims who are extremely stressed. WATCH: Cyclone Idai Victims Appeal to Zimbabwean Government for Fast Relief Castro said problems were compounded by the fact that the stricken areas are located near the mouths of rivers. "Remember, these are deltas and all these deltas are between salt- and freshwater." She said the tidal waves created by Idai might have salinized area waters, adding, "People are drinking this." Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced, most of whom are still in need of shelter. The WHO has warned that squalid conditions could help lead to the spread of infectious diseases. The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said Friday that cases of cholera had been reported in Beira, Mozambique's fourth-largest city. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Friday that the U.N. and its humanitarian partners were "scaling up the response with the initial funding from generous donors." He said the U.N. had already released $20 million but added, "Far greater international support is needed." The WFP's Castro said a "huge" humanitarian response was just the beginning. "The [Mozambique] government is going to need a lot of support on this, and the international community will have to look into a very long-term" humanitarian relief campaign, she said. Victims of Cyclone Idai in Zimbabwe are calling on the government to expedite relief aid. As Columbus Mavhunga reports from the hard-hit city of Chimanimani, the government is appealing to the international community for help with medicine, food and infrastructure. The Zimbabwean government says it is appealing to the international community for help with medicine, food and infrastructure, as victims of Cyclone Idai push for expedited aid. Better Mungana's father died and his cousin went missing when the cyclone hit Zimbabwe, Malawi and Mozambique last week. Mungana, of the hard-hit city of Chimanimani, wants President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government to assist him and his family. WATCH: Cyclone Idai Victims Appeal for Quick Relief "Since Cyclone Idai, we are struggling to have food, our clothes were washed away, so we are wondering what to do," he said. "The government promised to assist us with shelter, but it seems that help will come even to those who never lost anything. I lost my father, we are still looking for my cousin. It is painful. We have no shelter and no food." The body was recovered and buried late Friday, but food and shelter remain scarce. It is the same for the Dube-Magoso family about 500 meters away. Their 83-year-old father died when their house collapsed during the cyclone; their mother escaped, but suffered several injuries. Their son, Musavengana Dube Magoso, says they want the Zimbabwe government chip in. "The government must look for a better place to resettle us so that we can get some income to ensure the remaining get some source of livelihood," he said. "So far, we have no food all we have planted to get food was washed away by the rains. We have been reduced to zero." Emergency workers have described the flooding after Cyclone Idai as the region's most destructive in 20 years. Zimbabwe's government says it is having trouble keeping track of the death toll; it says the number is now "over 100." It also cannot meet the demand for medicine, food and other essentials. Visiting the area, July Moyo, Zimbabwe's minister of local government, says the international community can assist in the areas of need. "The commanders are telling me that they are retrieving people being buried everywhere," July said. "We understand that some of them were swept away into Mozambique. We will be checking to see what we can do to retrieve those. We are dropping medicines so that we do not have more [people] dying. We have moved food that is in Mutare [the region's biggest city] to forward places so that we can start moving along roads that are now passable." Mnangagwa has declared Saturday and Sunday days of mourning for the victims of Cyclone Idai. Thai voters head to the polls Sunday for the first time in nearly five years, and analysts say the results could have an impact on democracy throughout Southeast Asia. Thailand's military junta took power in May 2014, when then-army chief Prayut Chan-ocha led a coup that toppled the government. Observers see the coming elections as a struggle between democracy and military rule. Prayut, now seeking the premiership, has said that if he wins, voters would be returning his junta-led country to a "democracy." Thailand is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and pro-democracy advocates within the trading bloc are paying close attention to the vote, despite its policy of noninterference in members' internal affairs. The ASEAN Post, an independent regional digital media company in Kuala Lumpur, recently noted that freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and press freedom had deteriorated since the junta seized power, initiating the longest period of army rule in modern Thai history. "Several hundred activists and dissidents have since been called national security threats and faced serious criminal charges such as sedition, computer-related crimes and lese majeste [insulting the monarchy] for peaceful expression of their views," it noted in a recent opinion piece. The coup Thailand's 13th since 1932 ousted then-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and caused international outrage. The pending elections, the military hopes, will fix that. Myanmar's experience The election framework echoes the 2015 ballot in neighboring Myanmar, where hopes of democratic freedom were dashed by a military that has maintained an overarching influence on a civilian administration, through its allotted seats in parliament. A more drastic story has unfolded along Thailand's eastern border. Cambodia was returned to a one-party state last year after the main opposition party was banned from competing at elections, media outlets were closed and political dissidents were jailed, raising the prospect of U.S.- and European-imposed sanctions. Elections will also be held in Indonesia in April, and midterm polls are to be held a month later in the Philippines, where the separation of powers a cornerstone in any democracy has foundered amid the government's war on drugs. Singapore has been ruled by the same party since independence in 1965. Of the remaining non-democratic countries, communist Vietnam and Laos have initiated crackdowns on dissent, while Islamic Brunei has instituted sharia. David Welsh, country director in Southeast Asia for the Solidarity Center, a nonprofit that seeks to help build a global labor movement, said human rights were a major concern ahead of looming elections, and that the strong-arm from governments favoring big business were affecting workers and trade union issues. "The prospects for business and trade are probably pretty good. The prospects for labor laws and worker protection aren't, although I've been pleasantly surprised by what's happened in Malaysia, so let's see," Welsh said. Bright spot Malaysia emerged as one the few democratic bright spots among the 10 members of ASEAN after the electorate, which tired of allegations of gross corruption, stunned pollsters and ousted Prime Minister Najib Razak, who is now facing trial. But observers say the chances of the Thai junta losing power at the ballot box appear remote. Under a new constitution, the next Thai prime minister will be elected at a joint sitting of parliament. The 250 members of the Senate will all be appointed by the military, with political parties contesting only the 500 seats in the House of Representatives on Sunday. That heavily favors Prayut, who led the coup and is hoping to legitimize his leadership by standing for prime minister. The Southeast Asian Press Alliance has expressed concerns about his leadership, citing a crackdown on press freedoms, while the Asian Network for Free Elections has warned of "inconsistencies and irregularities" in the lead-up to the election. Those inconsistencies were also noted by Laddawan Tantiyitayapitak, vice president of Poll Watch in Thailand. She said vote buying in the poorer provinces had emerged as an issue in campaigning, but that so far the Election Commission of Thailand had failed to act on complaints. "They start from 100 baht, 200 baht, 300 baht to 500 baht. Now it's 1,000 baht (about U.S. $32) that they are saying they are going to give to the people" for their votes, she said. Transportation, food Laddawan said voters were also being organized into large groups to be trucked to the polling booths, where they have been instructed to vote for the same political party en masse and were offered a free lunch. "The politicians, they do not realize that what they are doing is wrong," she said. "But nowadays, people, they realize, so vote buying may or may not affect the result of the election." Laddawan declined to name the political parties that she said were offering money in return for votes, but said there were "many." The U.S. government has issued an advisory to its citizens, warning that travelers may encounter a heightened police and military presence throughout the country, particularly near polling stations. The U.S. is urging its citizens to abide by Thai laws that prohibit criticism of the monarchy, avoid any election-related large gatherings, and monitor international and Thai media before, during and after the elections. A group of experts meeting for the first time to examine the pros and cons of human genome editing say it would be irresponsible to engage in this procedure at this time. Late last year, a Chinese scientist triggered an international storm when he announced he had created the first gene-edited babies. He said he had edited the DNA of the twin girls to protect them from HIV. Having met at World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva earlier this week, the 18-person panel warned the procedure is too risky and should not be attempted before a system of strong rules governing this technique are established. Co-chair of the advisory committee, Margaret Hamburg, said the group has agreed on a set of core principles. She said the panel recommends the WHO create a registry for human genome editing research. Under this system, she said scientific work in these technologies would be registered in a transparent way. We think it is very important to establish this registry to get a better sense of the research that is going on around the world, greater transparency about it, and in fact greater accountability in terms of assuring that research meets standards in terms of science and ethics, Hamburg said. The experts agree this would preclude the kind of secrecy that surrounded the work of the Chinese scientist. She said the panel would like this transparency to extend to the publication of manuscripts that emerge from important research. Hamburg said publishers will be asked to ensure the research has been registered with the WHO before it is publicized. Hamburg said developing the guidelines on human genome editing is a process that will take about 18 months to complete, noting that it is a difficult, but urgent task that must be carried out in a thoughtful, comprehensive manner. Thousands of people gathered Friday for a mass funeral in a cemetery in New Zealand where 26 of the 50 victims of a mass shooting at two mosques last Friday were buried. The youngest victim buried was 3 years old. Family members used shovels and wheelbarrows to bury their loved ones. Earlier Friday, thousands of New Zealanders gathered in a park across from the Al Noor Mosque, where one of the attacks took place, to observe the Muslim call to prayer, including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who wore a black headscarf. Thousands more watched or listened on television or radio as the event was broadcast live. New Zealand mourns with you. We are one, Ardern said in a short speech, followed by two minutes of silence. Imam Gamil Fouda told the crowd, We are broken-hearted, but we are not broken. He thanked the neighbors who opened their doors to save us from the killer and those who pulled over their cars to help us. Reuters reported that female police officers at the outdoor service donned headscarves and wore red roses on their uniforms. Promise to Muslims Also Friday, New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters traveled to Istanbul for an emergency session of the 57-member Organization of Islamic Cooperations executive committee. The meeting was called by Turkey to fight prejudice against Muslims in the wake of the New Zealand attack. Peters told the assembly that the gunman accused of the killings would spend the rest of his life in isolation in prison and promised that the families of the victims would have justice. The OIC, in a statement, urged all countries to refrain from statements that associate Islam with terror and extremism. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the world must fight against rising Islamophobia in the same determined fashion as humanity fought against anti-Semitism after the Holocaust. Erdogan plays attackers video During his campaign rallies, Turkeys president has been showing video clips of the mosque attacks, which were livestreamed by the shooter, drawing condemnation from New Zealand and Australia. Peters told reporters that he did not ask Erdogan on Friday to stop showing the videos, because I felt that I did not have to ask it, because they are not doing that anymore. However, several hours after the meeting, Erdogan again showed video footage of the shootings during an election rally. Weapons ban New Zealand authorities have charged Australian Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, with murder in connection with the March 15 attacks on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques. The self-proclaimed white nationalist did not enter a plea in his initial court appearance the day after the attack. His next court appearance is April 5. On Thursday, Ardern imposed an immediate ban on all military-style semiautomatic and automatic assault rifles. The ban, which the prime minister announced in Wellington, includes high-capacity magazines, which can hold multiple rounds of ammunition, and accessories that can convert ordinary rifles into fast-acting assault rifles. Ardern said she imposed the sales ban to prevent stockpiling and that a complete ban on the weapons would be implemented after new laws take effect. Ardern also announced a large-scale buyback scheme to encourage owners of such weapons to surrender them to authorities. She said the government could spend up to $140 million to buy back guns from owners who turn them in. The military and police would be exempt, as would pest control businesses. New Zealand police said on their website a transitional period would allow people to turn in their guns without penalty. Parliament is expected to approve the proposed laws when it reconvenes in mid-April. The World Health Organization says that on March 27, India's 1.3 billion people and the entire WHO Southeast Asia region will celebrate five years of being polio-free. Twelve years ago, the WHO said, India alone was responsible for almost 70 percent of all polio cases around the world. It called India's success against polio one of the most significant achievements in public health. WHO officials said India's accomplishment proved the crippling disease could be eliminated in even the most challenging circumstances with a strong political commitment. Worldwide, the number of cases due to wild poliovirus has decreased from an estimated 350,000 a year in 1988, when the WHO launched its global eradication campaign, to 33 in 2018. Trouble spots WHO spokesman Christian Lindemeier told VOA that polio remained endemic in only three countries in two of the organization's six regions: Nigeria in the African region and Pakistan and Afghanistan in the eastern Mediterranean region. "There has been no wild polio virus detected in Africa since 2016, and we are cautiously optimistic that AFRO, our African region, is on the path to certification as well," Lindemeier said. "EMRO, our eastern Mediterranean region, has only those two countries, which have never stopped polio, unfortunately Afghanistan, Pakistan." Lindemeier said the countries are considered a joint reservoir of the virus. Therefore, he said, both are getting most of the focus and support from the WHO's polio eradication program. He said tailored and innovative tactics were being put in place to deal with the challenges in each country. The strategies include identifying, tracking and vaccinating migrant and hard-to-reach populations. Lindemeier said community workers would be trained to go door to door to find children who haven't been vaccinated and immunize them against polio. The WHO said the polio virus does not respect borders. It said polio would not be eradicated until every last child was protected. U.S.-backed forces raised their flag over the northeastern Syrian town of Baghuz and said the self-declared caliphate of the Islamic State terror group was finally dead. The long-anticipated announcement Saturday by the Syrian Democratic Forces followed several waves of coalition airstrikes that repeatedly lit up the night sky. The targets were several hundred hardened IS fighters who had been clinging to scraps of land along the Euphrates River and along a mountainous ridge on the outskirts of the town. And by the time the sun began to illuminate littered and broken landscape, their resistance had been broken. The Bagoz [sic] village has been fully liberated, SDF spokesman Mustafa Bali announced on Twitter. Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and %100 [sic] territorial defeat of ISIS." We congradulate [sic] the world with the elimination of the so called Khalifet [sic]," Bali added. The announcement came almost 12 hours after a similar declaration by U.S. President Donald Trump, who told reporters travelling with him aboard Air Force One that IS had been 100 percent defeated following a briefing from Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan. The territorial caliphate has been eliminated in Syria, added White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. But Trumps announcement was quickly refuted by U.S. defense officials and the SDF. Bali told VOA's Kurdish Service Friday that even as the president was speaking, his forces were still engaged with IS fighters in Baghuz and that additional airstrikes were being carried out. Until now, SDF officials have been wary of declaring victory over IS in Baghuz, pointing to numerous predications of the terror groups ultimate demise over the past several months that all proved to be premature. Coalition officials also warned IS was putting up a hard fight until the very end, while also resorting to what it described as gruesome tactics, including the use of children as human shields. But the very last territory under IS control began to slip through the terror groups grip for good late Thursday into early Friday, after the U.S.-led coalition launched a new wave of airstrikes targeting the remaining IS-held positions. Observers on the ground said the bombardment convinced perhaps a few hundred more IS fighters to surrender, though the rest seemed intent on fighting to the death. At its height in 2014, IS ruled over large swaths of Syria and Iraq, boasting dual capitals in Raqqa, Syria, and Mosul, Iraq. Since then, the U.S.-led international coalition, along with partners on the ground, have rolled back the terror groups hold. But U.S. defense and intelligence officials have long warned that the collapse of the Islamic States caliphate will not be the end of the fight. A senior U.S. defense official said recently that most of the group's senior leadership, including self-declared caliph, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, remain at large, commanding at minimum "tens of thousands" of fighters and supporters across Syria and Iraq. And there are also concerns that IS, which has already been engaged in an active insurgency in parts of Syria and Iraq, has thousands more supporters and sympathizers including upwards of 60,000 people who have surrendered since the SDF and coalition launched their final assault last month. These folks are unrepentant, the official said. The seeds for a future caliphate or certainly a persistent clandestine insurgency exist in these large numbers of people who ... are looking to reposition for future perpetuation of ISIS in some form or fashion." And even in the face of imminent defeat, IS true believers remain defiant. Those who are bewildered and think that our caliphate is over ... we will say that its remaining and expanding, a fighter from Baghuz, identifying himself as Abu al-Harith al-Ansari, said in a video released Thursday and translated by the SITE Intelligence Group. The banner has been elevated, and the Ummah, whose sons are racing to martyrdom, does not know defeat, he said. Fern Robinson and VOA's Kurdish Service contributed to this report. Italy has joined China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), an ambitious trillion-dollar transcontinental trade and infrastructure project, Saturday. Rome's move to become the first G-7 nation to participate in China's so-called New Silk Road has brought divisions within Europe as the European Union weighs a more defensive strategy on China. As State Department correspondent Nike Ching reports, American officials and analysts are cautioning allies about China's approach to investment. Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Mostly clear. Low around 30F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Mostly clear. Low around 30F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. U.S. Special Counsel Robert Muellers completion of a long-awaited report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by President Donald Trump is drawing calls from lawmakers for the reports release. Mueller submitted the report Friday to the Justice Department, headed by Attorney General William Barr, who is now reviewing it before deciding if any of it will become public. The results of the report are still confidential, but the Justice Department confirmed that it includes no new indictments. Barr, the top U.S. law enforcement official, said he could update Congress as early as this weekend about the findings in the report, which concludes Mueller's nearly two-year-long investigation. WATCH: After Months of Anticipation, Mueller Probe Concludes It is not clear how much of the report will be provided to Congress or how much, if any of it, could become public. Top congressional Democrats said it is "imperative" to make the full report public. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senator Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement, "The American people have a right to the truth.'' They also said that Barr must not give Trump any "sneak preview'' of the findings or evidence. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said the White House has not received or been briefed on the report and says "we look forward to the process taking its course.'' She said the next steps are "up to Attorney General Barr." The Associated Press reported that Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani has requested an early look at the findings before they are made public, but has not received any assurances that the Trump legal team will get a preview. Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he hopes that Attorney General Barr will "provide as much information as possible'' on the findings, "with as much openness and transparency as possible.'' Georgia Representative Doug Collins, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, said he expects the Justice Department to release the report to the committee without delay "and to the maximum extent permitted by law." Another top Republican, Senator Chuck Grassley, said the findings must be made public to end the "speculation and innuendo'' that hangs over Trump's administration. It is not known if Mueller found criminal conduct by Trump or any of his staff, beyond the charges already brought against several aides. So far, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people, including Russian intelligence officers, and three Russian companies. Charges have also been filed against Trump's former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn and Trump's personal lawyer, Michael Cohen. The Democratic heads of six House committees wrote a joint letter to Barr Friday, saying, "If the Special Counsel has reason to believe that the president has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct, then the Justice Department has an obligation not to conceal such information. The president must be subject to accountability." Democratic presidential hopefuls also joined the chorus of calls for the reports release. Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, a frequent critic of the president, requested that Barr disclose the report to the American public. Now. Kamala Harris, a senator from California, not only demanded total transparency, but said Barr must publicly testify under oath about the investigations findings. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York said Americans have a right to know its findings. Senator Bernie Sanders, who represents Vermont, circulated a petition calling on Barr to release the full report, saying, The president claims thats what he wants. Pressure for the reports release is also being applied by special interest groups. The American Civil Liberties Union urged the Justice Department to release the report swiftly because Americans have the right to know if President Trump and his associates coordinated with Russia to interfere in our elections, the full extent of Russian efforts to affect our elections, and any attempts to interfere with the investigation. The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights declared, No one, not even the president, is above the law. It added the reports release is about restoring trust in our elections and shining light on potential crimes and corruption that threatens our democracy. The liberal advocacy group, People for the American Way, said, To the greatest extent possible, Americans deserve to see the results of an investigation into the attempts to subvert our democracy. Our elected representatives have a constitutional obligation to review every single aspect of the Mueller investigation and to make sure that the public knows exactly what role the president and his allies played in Russias campaign to meddle in our elections. In a letter to Congress, Barr said that the Justice Department did not block Mueller from taking any action during the investigation. Barr is required to report to Congress any instance in which the Justice Department overruled a requested action by Mueller. Trump's lawyers, Giuliani and Jay Sekulow, issued joint statements Friday saying they are "pleased'' that Mueller has delivered his report on the Russia investigation. A spokesman for Mueller says he will be concluding his services as special counsel in the coming days and says a small number of staff will remain to assist in closing the office's operations. The central questions that Mueller, a former FBI director, have been examining are whether Trump or his aides colluded with the Russians to undermine Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign in 2016 and whether the president attempted to obstruct the subsequent investigation to protect himself and his political advisers and aides. As of Saturday morning, Trump had been notably silent on the reports release. During the course of the probe, he repeatedly denied any collusion and obstruction, and called the investigation a "witch hunt." Russia has denied interfering in the election. Peruvian police said on Friday that they have arrested the leader and two lawyers of an indigenous community, accusing them of trying to extort Chinese miner MMG Ltd by blocking a road it uses to transport copper for the past month. Gregorio Rojas, president of the community Fuerabamba, was arrested in Lima late on Thursday, along with the community's attorneys, brothers Frank and Jorge Chavez, the police said in a statement. It was not immediately clear who the legal representatives were for Rojas and the Chavez brothers. Frank Chavez and Rojas have previously denied allegations by representatives of the mining industry that the road blockade aimed to illegally or unfairly secure money from MMG. Fuerabamba has said MMG built the road on its farmland without its permission, and that the government illegally made it a national highway last year to help MMG, which is controlled by state-owned China Minmetals Corp Ltd. The government and MMG deny the allegations. Rojas told Reuters this month that Fuerabamba asked MMG for 40 million soles ($12 million) for the rights to use the road. The arrests came as talks between the three parties reached a stalemate. The government had demanded an end to the blockade before discussing the community's demands any further. MMG said it respects decisions by Peru's judicial system and was open to dialogue. It reiterated that the road blockade had halted its exports of copper but that production has not yet stopped. Las Bambas is one of Peru's biggest copper mines, with about 385,000 tonnes in output last year. Fuerabamba, a Quechua-speaking community that once farmed and herded animals in Peru's southern Andes, was relocated to a new town near Las Bambas earlier this decade so that the mine could be built. Fuerabamba has repeatedly accused MMG of failing to fulfill its commitments in the relocation agreement. In early February, community members camped out along a stretch of the road on its farmland to block MMG's trucks carrying copper concentrates to the port of Matarani on Peru's Pacific coast. Former Fuerabamba President Alfonso Vargas said by telephone on Friday that the blockade would continue despite the arrests. As part of the same operation, police said they had arrested two others and seized dynamite, guns and bullets from 12 properties in Lima and the region of Apurimac, where Las Bambas is located. The police statement did not specify whose property the weapons were seized from or how they related to the alleged extortion. The president of Mozambique, Filipe Nyusi, has visited the country's coastal Buzi district, one of the areas most damaged by Cyclone Idai. Nyusi flew over the Buzi district Friday afternoon to get a bird's-eye view of what is considered the country's worst natural disaster in the last 50 years. The district is almost entirely under water after Mozambique's coast was slammed last week. Winds of 160 kilometers per hour (100 mph) and floodwaters six meters (10 feet) deep swamped Mozambique's coast, killing hundreds of people and leaving tens of thousands stranded on high ground and rooftops. Nyusi told residents in the area the government was doing everything it could to rescue those trapped and assist those who lost their homes. He said the major concern of the government was to rescue people surrounded by water and to provide food, clean water and shelter. Nyusi said he spoke to Angola's president, Joao Lourenco, who promised to send about 100 doctors to provide medical aid and help avoid the risk of disease outbreaks such as cholera and malaria. Government buildings in the area have been transformed into shelters for Mozambique's flood victims. Nyusi visited some of the evacuation centers to assess conditions, offer condolences and promise more help. The leader called for unity, and urged all Mozambicans to send support. Nyusi offered thanks for the compassion shown by countless countries that have sent support. These include members of the Southern African Development Community and the European Union, as well as Brazil, Britain, China and India, among others. Nyusi thanked those who have saved lives and given food and clothing to cyclone victims. He is scheduled to visit other areas of the country affected by the devastating floods. The death toll from the storm stood at 293 but was expected to increase. A little more than a week after a terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, the places of worship have re-opened. At the Al Noor mosque Saturday, where 40 of the 50 victims were killed, there was very little physical evidence of the horrific event. Fresh paint and plaster covered up signs of gunshots and new windows replaced the ones smashed by worshippers who tried to escape the siege by a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist. To feel that this form of violence and cruelty is visited on you, living in this idyllic part of the world, is deeply, deeply moving, said Prince Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, one among the hundreds who visited Al Noor. Among the mosque visitors Saturday were survivors of the attack and people who knew the victims. Those who lost their families are of course quite emotional, said Shagat Khan, the president of the Muslim Association of Canterbury. And those who were present here during the incident, of course the memories come back. The flashbacks. March for Love Earlier in Christchurch Saturday, there was a March For Love with people walking mostly in silence. One demonstration sign read: Muslims welcome, Racists not. We feel like hate has brought a lot of darkness at times like this and love is the strongest cure to light the city out of that darkness, said Manala Butler, 16, one of the student organizers of the march. Mass funeral On Friday, there was a mass funeral for 26 of the victims. There was also a Muslim call to prayer Friday in a ceremony in a park near the Al Noor mosque that was broadcast on radio and television, followed by two minutes of silence. Officials say at least two people who were related to victims of the attacks have died. One woman who had arrived from Jordan after her son was killed died over night Saturday. And a police official told the French News Agency (AFP) that another relative had also died, but gave no details. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has received wide praise for her support of the Muslim community following the shootings. Ardern donned a headscarf to visit those affected by the shootings, in the tradition of Muslim women, a move that prompted other New Zealand women to do the same thing. The New Zealand government has imposed a ban on all military-style semi-automatic and automatic assault rifles. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktou, Dubais leader, thanked Ardern on Twitter Friday night. He also posted a photo of Ardern imposed on Dubais Burj Khalifaword, the worlds tallest building. The photo shows the prime minister hugging a woman with the Arabic word salam and the English translation peace above them. New Zealand authorities have charged 28-year-old Australian Brenton Harrison Tarrant with murder in connection with the March 15 attacks on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques. The self-proclaimed white nationalist did not enter a plea in his initial court appearance the day after the attack. His next court appearance is April 5. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said Friday that his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, sent him "greetings and best wishes" on the eve of Pakistan's national day. The message came several weeks after the two nuclear-armed rival nations nearly went to another war over the Kashmir territorial dispute. Khan tweeted that the Indian prime minister told him it was time for people of the "subcontinent [to] work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence." The Pakistani leader said he welcomed Modi's message. "I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address and resolve all issues, especially the central issue of Kashmir," Khan said. He added that the two countries "need to forge a new relationship based on peace and prosperity for all our people." Military tensions have been running high in the region since Feb. 14 when a suicide car bomber in Kashmir killed at least 40 Indian security forces. A Pakistan-based outlawed militant group, Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), reportedly claimed responsibility for plotting the attack. Islamabad denied its involvement and offered full cooperation to India in investigating and bringing any Pakistani to justice if found guilty. Instead, New Delhi on Feb. 26 carried out what it described as "non-military, pre-emptive" airstrikes on an alleged JeM-linked terror training camp in Pakistan's Balakot region. Pakistan denied any camps existed at the site and dismissed as baseless Indian claims of killing militants. The following day, Pakistan launched a counterattack before the two countries engaged in aerial combat for the first time in 50 years. Pakistani fighter planes shot down an Indian aircraft and captured its pilot, raising fears of a full-fledged war. Two days later, however, Pakistan freed the Indian pilot, easing fears of a wider conflict. Both countries reportedly had mobilized missiles to target each other's cities, prompting the U.S., China, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia to intervene and persuade India and Pakistan to step back from the brink of war. Islamabad has since intensified its crackdown against JeM and other militant groups outlawed by the United Nations and the United States. Authorities have seized hundreds of facilities, including education institutions and health care units run by JeM and other Pakistan-based militant groups that India blames for plotting cross-border attacks. More than three weeks after India carried out cross-border airstrikes, Pakistan's airspace remains blocked for flights to and from India. Pakistani officials cite the possibility of another "aggression" from the neighboring country for not opening the airspace. Tens of thousands of civilians who fled the South Sudanese city of Malakal during fighting that broke out in 2013 are slowly returning home. The town still bears scars from South Sudan's five years of conflict. Bullet holes litter the walls of the buildings that remain standing. People are starting new businesses in the wrecked shells of shops. Besides restoring the town, residents are trying to rebuild their families and locate people who disappeared during the war. The International Committee of the Red Cross is helping them out with its tracing program. Relatives eager to find news about lost loved ones often stand in line at the ICRC snapshot centers to have their photos taken, or to identify relatives from the photos snapped at U.N. protection-of-civilian sites across the country. Search for a brother Last year, the ICRC, with help from the South Sudan Red Cross, reunited 68 people who had been separated from their families during the conflict. Nyadel Udong Jak, 36, was separated from her brother in 2014 in Luakat village and returned to Malakal from Khartoum last month. "Until now, I don't know his whereabouts, only to hear recently that he is in Akob and he is fishing at the riverbank. That is why I have come to look for him," Jak told VOA's South Sudan in Focus. Nyachangjwok Unak, 30, returned to Malakal about two months ago to find her two children, Sarah and Bullish. Unak said she lost track of them when the fighting erupted in 2013, when the kids were just 4 and 7 years old. Unak said she could not contain her joy when she learned her children had made it out of Malakal alive. "When the war started in Malakal at around 7 a.m., there was bombing and shelling and everybody was frightened. While I was collecting some belongings to flee with, I found that my children had fled with other people to the unknown location. I was sad and thought I would never find them, but I was praying to God to reunite me with them. And when I got them back, I was very happy and excited," Unak told VOA. Snapshots help reunite families The snapshot centers in Malakal give family members the option of either calling or sending messages to lost family members in hopes of tracking them down at other camps across the country. Lisa Pattioon, the ICRC field coordinator in Malakal, said the snapshot program focuses on searching for relatives of minors separated from parents during the conflict. "We see the snapshot as one of the complementary tools to these beneficiaries' individual actions. Many beneficiaries will have challenges in the search, such as economic factors. If they don't have the money to take transport to their former community, perhaps go to Ethiopia, to Sudan, to where they last heard their family member was living, the snapshot is another way of facilitating that search," Pattioon told South Sudan in Focus. There are rewards Despite witnessing all the agony and pain that the South Sudanese people have endured during the war, Pattioon said it was enormously rewarding to see some finding lost loved ones. "They may have lost their home, may have lost their livelihood ... but more often the primary concern is what happened to their family members. Are they well? Are they OK? And being able to have answers to those questions is an enormous relief to the beneficiaries, to know the fate of their loved ones," Pattioon told VOA. Militants stormed Somali government offices in Mogadishu on Saturday after setting off a car bomb, and officials said at least 10 people were killed, including a deputy minister. Authorities of Mogadishu's only free ambulance service said they had collected nearly 10 other wounded civilians. According to eyewitnesses, the attack began when the suicide bomber blew up his explosives-laden car at the front gate of the compound that houses the Labor and Public Works and Reconstruction ministries. "A car bomb hit the main gate of one of the compounds and then extremists armed with assault rifles stormed to the buildings, engaging a fierce battle with security forces," Ahmed Mohamed Iman, director general of Somalia's Ministry of Public Works and Reconstruction, who was present during the attack, told VOA Somalia. Iman said some attackers rampaged through the buildings in an attempt to take some workers hostage, but were shot by the security forces. "A huge blast occurred that forced my car to almost fly. Then I saw at least four gunmen in government uniforms storming into the building. I also saw the dead bodies of four civilians and several others wounded, lying along the road," said Somali lawmaker Mohamud Abdullahi Ahmed. He said the Somali security forces evacuated dozens of government staff members from the buildings immediately after the assault, but during the attack the militants shot Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, the deputy labor minister, who also was a lawmaker in the Somali Parliament. Al-Shabab militants said in a statement that the group was behind the attacks and had killed number of government officials. Separately, at least three other, smaller blasts were reported Saturday in different areas in Mogadishu. Two of those explosions targeted a checkpoint manned by Somali security forces and patroling soldiers, killing four soldiers and wounding 10 civilians. The latest assault and the blasts came days after dozens of Somali National Army soldiers staged a mutiny and left their front-line bases in the Lower and Middle Shabelle regions, complaining for months about the lack of salaries. Analysis during the last six months shows the number of militants coming to and hiding in Mogadishu has increased because they are fleeing from U.S. drone attacks and special operations that target them in their bases outside Mogadishu. Harun Maruf contributed to this report. The European Commission will next week urge EU countries to share more data to tackle cybersecurity risks related to 5G networks but will ignore U.S. calls to ban Huawei Technologies, four people familiar with the matter said Friday. European digital chief Andrus Ansip will present the recommendation Tuesday. While the guidance does not have legal force, it will carry political weight, which can eventually lead to national legislation in European Union countries. The United States has lobbied Europe to shut out Huawei, saying its equipment could be used by the Chinese government for espionage. Huawei has strongly rejected the allegations and earlier this month sued the U.S. government over the issue. Use cybersecurity tools Ansip will tell EU countries to use tools set out under the EU directive on security of network and information systems, or NIS directive, adopted in 2016 and the recently approved Cybersecurity Act, the people said. For example, member states should exchange information and coordinate on impact assessment studies on security risks and on certification for internet-connected devices and 5G equipment. The Commission will not call for a European ban on global market leader Huawei, leaving it to EU countries to decide on national security grounds. It is a recommendation to enhance exchanges on the security assessment of digital critical infrastructure, one of the sources said. The Commission said the recommendation would stress a common EU approach to security risks to 5G networks. Tougher on telecoms equipment The EU executives guidance marks a tougher stance on Chinese investment after years of almost unfettered European openness to China, which controls 70 percent of the global supply of the critical raw materials needed to make high-tech goods. The measures, if taken on board, will be part of what French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday was a European awakening about potential Chinese dominance, after EU leaders held a first-ever discussion about China policy at a summit. Germany this month set tougher criteria for all telecoms equipment vendors, without singling out Huawei and ignoring U.S. pressure. Big telecoms operators oppose a Huawei ban, saying such a move could set back 5G deployment in the bloc by years. In contrast, Australia and New Zealand have stopped operators using Huawei equipment in their networks. The industry sees 5G as the next money spinner, with its promise to link up everything from vehicles to household devices. Alongside the Huawei issue, the bloc also plans to discuss Chinese subsidies, state involvement in the Chinese economy and more access to the Chinese market at an EU-China summit April 9. The nearly 2-year-old probe into potential ties between Donald Trumps presidential campaign and Russian election interference has come to an end. Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday submitted his confidential report to U.S. Attorney General William Barr. But will Muellers report be the end of the story? Hardly. Prosecutors from outside the special counsels office, including the U.S. attorneys offices in New York, Virginia and Washington, D.C., are all pursuing cases that have spun off from the Mueller investigation. State investigators in New York and Maryland have ongoing Trump-related investigations. And in Congress, the House and Senate intelligence and other committees are actively looking into Trumps finances, potential Russia-Trump ties and other matters. Besides Mueller, heres a rundown of whos investigating what: Violations of federal campaign finance law. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York is investigating Trumps role in silencing former Playboy model Karen McDougal and adult-film actress Stormy Daniels with hush payments in August and October 2016, respectively. The two women have previously claimed to have had affairs with President Trump. Inauguration funding. Trumps inaugural committee received a subpoena in February 2019 from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York. Federal prosecutors are looking into where the money raised and spent by the Trump inauguration committee, $107 million, came from and where it went. Paul Manaforts activity. In March, a Manhattan grand jury indicted Trumps former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, on 16 counts of mortgage fraud and conspiracy. The state-level indictment came after Manafort was sentenced in federal court in Alexandria and Washington, D.C., to more than seven years in prison for a host of crimes. Trump Super PAC Funding. Federal prosecutors are examining whether foreigners illegally funneled donations to the pro-Trump super PAC Rebuilding America Now. U.S. law prohibits foreign nationals from giving to federal campaigns, PACs and inaugural funds. Russian Accountant Elena Alekseevna Khusyaynova. The U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia indicted Khusyaynova in October 2018 for conspiracy to defraud the United States by interfering in the 2016 presidential elections and 2018 midterm elections. Turkish Influence. Former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn is cooperating with federal prosecutors in eastern Virginia in a criminal case against two former associates. The two worked on behalf of a Turkish entrepreneur who financed a campaign to discredit Fethullah Gulen, the cleric accused by the Turkish government of helping instigate a failed coup. Flynn pleaded guilty Dec. 1, 2017, to lying to the FBI about his contact with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak, and his plea agreement includes some details of the Turkish case. Trump Foundation Tax Case. The New York Attorney Generals Office is collaborating with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance to look into possible criminal charges against the now-defunct Donald J. Trump Foundation for alleged tax evasion and aggressive pursuit of tax breaks. Trump agreed to dissolve the charity in December 2018. Emoluments Lawsuit. The state of Maryland and the District of Columbia have sued President Trump for allegedly violating two anti-corruption provisions of the U.S. Constitution. The plaintiffs say Trump has violated the so-called Domestic Emoluments Clause, which prohibits the president from accepting gifts from states and the Foreign Emoluments Clause, which bans him from accepting payments from foreign governments. Roger Stone and WikiLeaks. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia and Muellers office are jointly prosecuting the case against Trumps longtime adviser and confidante, Roger Stone. Stone was charged with witness tampering, obstruction of justice, and making false statements to Congress about Democrats emails stolen by Russian hackers and published by the website WikiLeaks before 2016 election. Stone, now under a judges gag order, has pleaded not guilty. Masood Farivar contributed to this report. A student in Pakistan stabbed his professor to death earlier this week after accusing him of committing blasphemy and promoting un-Islamic culture at a college in southern Punjabs Bahawalpur city, according to law enforcement officials. The student, Khateeb Hussain, attacked his English professor, Khalid Hameed, with a knife Wednesday at Government Sadiq Egerton College. The attacker was apparently unhappy about plans for an upcoming farewell party the professor was arranging that would include both male and female students of the college. The attacker allegedly viewed the party as vulgar and against the teachings of Islam. In a video recorded of the attacker after the incident, which went viral on the internet in Pakistan, Hussain can be heard bragging about his crime and saying he has no remorse whatsoever for his action. He (the professor) used to bark a lot against Islam. He would say a lot of things against Islam every day. It is good that he is now dead. Im content and thanks to Allah that the professor is dead now, Hussain says on the video. Law enforcement officials say the student has been taken into custody and charged with murder. Officials say their initial inquiries found no evidence that the suspect has affiliation with any religious or militant group. Growing radicalization The case has generated widespread condemnation across the South Asian country, where growing radicalization among youth and intolerance toward people of other religions has many concerned about the long-term consequences of the trend. Some rights activists say that extremism among youth has become so prevalent that many dont hesitate to take matters into their own hands and to kill anyone over unproven allegations of blasphemy or acts deemed anti-Islamic. It is about the mindset. How can a student gather the courage to come and stab a teacher in the college premises and have no remorse of the act? Mehdi Hassan, a Lahore-based human rights activist, told VOA. This is not the first incident of this kind and yet another proof of educated youths inclination towards extremism. The government must take strict actions against such elements so that no one else would have the courage to do it ever again, Hassan added. Rasul Baksh Raees, an analyst and education activist, echoes Hassans concerns and charges that strict enforcement of the law and engagement of youth in crucial conversations about issues considered taboo in the country is an absolute necessity. Outdated teaching methods, ignorance and lack of dialogue on the matter is promoting radicalization among youth, Raees told VOA. The nation needs to develop a system where the youth is allowed to ask questions in mind regarding Islam. That might help these educated youth to stay away from acts that are totally against the religion, such as murdering someone in the name of religion, he added. Blasphemy Blasphemy remains a sensitive topic in predominantly Sunni Muslim Pakistan, where insulting Islams prophet or the religion is punishable by death. Mere accusations in the past have resulted in mob violence and lynchings of alleged blasphemers. Rights activists have long complained about the misuse of blasphemy laws in the country, where many people have been murdered over unproven allegations of committing blasphemy or anti-Islam acts in recent years. Last year, a student shot and killed his college principal on campus after accusing him of blasphemy in Charsadda city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The principal had scolded the student for missing classes to attend a protest organized by a right-wing Islamist group in Islamabad. In April 2017, Mashal Khan, a student, was beaten to death by his fellow students at his university campus in the Mardan region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Khan was accused of posting blasphemous materials on social media. Vietnamese Ambassador to Chile Nguyen Ngoc Son speaks at opening ceremony (Photo courtesy of Vietnamese Embassy in Chile) Speaking at the exhibitions opening ceremony on March 20th, Vietnamese Ambassador to Chile Nguyen Ngoc Son thanked the Chilean National Congress, the Chile-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentarians Group and the Chile-Vietnam Culture Institute for helping organise the week-long exhibition. He hailed the significance of the event to celebrate the 48th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties (March 25th, 1971) and to mark 50 years since the historic meeting between Chilean President Salvador Allende and Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi in May 1969. According to Son, the photos show the close and profound relationship between the two countries, and promote the image of a peaceful, friendly and hospitable Vietnam. Chilean Congresswoman Karol Cariola, also President of the Chile-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentarians Group, expressed her desire to maintain coordination with the Vietnamese embassy and the Chile-Vietnam Culture Institute in organising people-to-people diplomacy activities. Also at the opening ceremony, participants were treated with Vietnamese cuisine and art performances on Vietnam and late President Ho Chi Minh. After the ceremony, Ambassador Son visited Vice President of the Chilean Senate Alfonso de Urresti to discuss parliamentary cooperation and measures to boost the two countries partnership./. The United Nations reports thousands of people, mainly women and children, are continuing to flee to al-Hol Camp from Baghuz amid reports that U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have seized control of Islamic States last stronghold in eastern Syria. According to the U.N., more than 74,000 people, 90 percent of them women and children, now are residing at the al-Hol Camp. Many are family members of IS fighters. Spokesman for the Office of the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Jens Laerke said many of an estimated 2,000 people who recently arrived were in very poor health. Most of the new arrivals show signs of distress and suffer from malnutrition, fatigue, medical conditions and war injuries, which is caused by months of hostilities and lack of access to food, medical assistance and basic services, Laerke said. Aid workers report shelters for the camp residents are inadequate to protect them from the cold, windy weather. Heating is scarce. Laerke said humanitarian agencies on the ground expect an additional 15,000 people to soon arriving the already crowded camp. The camp has significantly exceeded its capacity and there is an urgent need for additional plots to accommodate those currently being hosted in communal spaces and big size tents and also to expand the camp for the new arrivals, Laerke said. The International Committee of the Red Cross is running a relief operation in the camp together with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent Society. The ICRC notes that not all of the families in al-Hol are Syrian. It says a significant number of foreign nationals, also mainly women and children, have taken refuge there. Red Cross officials say these people are in a particularly precarious situation. They say many want to go home to their countries of origin, but a number of governments do not want them back. The officials say governments have a responsibility to care for their stranded citizens regardless of the reasons why they left for Syria. U.S-backed Syrian Democratic Forces were conducting "clearance operations" Sunday in the last area retaken from Islamic State, a day after declaring the end of the terrorist group's self-declared caliphate. The U.S.-led coalition that has been fighting IS said SDF forces are working to identify any remaining militants previously hidden that might still be in the area and eliminate any remaining Islamic State weapons caches. For consecutive nights, bombs rained down on the last scraps of IS held territory, lighting up the night sky over the northeastern Syrian town of Baghuz. By Saturday morning, all that remained was a landscape littered with burnt-out vehicles, abandoned campsites and other provisions the last of the terror group's fighters and their families left behind. On one of the few buildings that still stood, SDF raised their flag and celebrated the death of a self-declared caliphate that inflicted terror and death on the people it tried to rule. "After five years of fighting, we stand here to declare the physical defeat of ISIS and the end of its public challenge over all humanity," SDF Director General Mazloum Kobani told officials and coalition partners at a ceremony to mark the long-awaited victory, using an acronym for the group. "We announce today the destruction of the so-called Islamic State organization and the end of its ground control in its last pocket in Baghuz region," he said. Yet in between the applause and the music of a marching band, SDF commanders and coalition official paid tribute to the SDF forces, which paid for the victory in blood and treasure an estimated 11,000 killed in the campaign to roll back IS, which at its height controlled nearly a third of Syria and almost as much of Iraq. And even until the end, sometime Friday night into Saturday morning, IS put up a vicious defense, using suicide bombers and even children as human shields in an attempt to cling to one last scrap of land over which they could fly their black flag. The exact fate of the last of the IS fighters, perhaps several hundred of the terror group's most hardened and devoted followers, was not clear Saturday. Observers on the ground said some appeared to have surrendered following the airstrikes that began Thursday night, targeting IS positions along a next to the Euphrates River and another sliver where IS fighters were backed up against a cliff overlooking the town. The first indications the fight against IS in Baghuz had ended came early Saturday, SDF spokesman Mustafa Bali using Twitter to announce the "total elimination of so-called caliphate." Only about 12 hours earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump made a similar declaration, telling reporters traveling with him aboard Air Force One that IS had been "100 percent defeated." But Trump's announcement was quickly refuted by U.S. defense officials and the SDF, who said fighting had not yet ended and more airstrikes were being called in. On Saturday, Trump again hailed the victory over the terror group in Baghuz. "ISIS's loss of territory is further evidence of its false narrative, which tries to legitimize a record of savagery that includes brutal executions, the exploitation of children as soldiers, and the sexual abuse and murder of women and children," he said in a statement. On Saturday, the SDF's Kobani was careful to note that while IS' caliphate had finally been brought down, the danger is far from over, with numerous IS "sleeper cells, which continue to present a great danger in our region and the wider world." Top U.S. defense and intelligence officials repeatedly have warned the terror group had long been planning for the demise of its caliphate, and that a clandestine insurgency already had taken root. "While this is a critical milestone in the fight against ISIS, we understand our work is far from complete,"Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan said in a statement. "We will continue our work with the Global Coalition to deny ISIS safe haven anywhere in the world." One senior defense official warned IS still has, at minimum, "tens of thousands" of fighters and supporters across Syria and Iraq, and that much of the group's senior leadership, including self-declared caliph, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, remain at large. There also are concerns that IS has thousands more supporters and sympathizers including upwards of 60,000 people who have surrendered since the SDF and coalition launched their final assault last month. So, too, there are concerns about more than 1,000 foreign fighters currently being held by the SDF, which has asked repeatedly that they be taken back and prosecuted by their home countries. The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) exposed 2.3 million disaster survivors to possible identity theft and fraud by sharing sensitive personal information with an outside company, according to an internal government watchdog. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General (OIG) said FEMA had shared financial records and other sensitive information of people who had participated in an emergency shelter program after being displaced by hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria and the California wildfires in 2017. The Inspector General's office said FEMA had shared participants' home addresses and bank account information with the contractor, along with necessary information like their names and birthdates. That "has placed approximately 2.3 million disaster survivors at increased risk of identity theft and fraud," the Inspector General's office said in a report. The name of the contactor was redacted. In a statement released on Friday, FEMA spokeswoman Lizzie Litzow said the agency had found no indication to suggest survivor data had been "compromised." She said the agency has removed unnecessary information from the contractor's computer systems. But FEMA's review only found that the contractor's computer systems had not been breached within the past 30 days because it did not keep records beyond that point, OIG said. FEMA told the watchdog it will not be able to completely resolve the problem until June 30. It is not the first time OIG has found that FEMA has mishandled personal information. A 2015 review revealed that agency personnel at a disaster-response center in California stored disaster survivor records in open, unsecured cardboard boxes. Investigators also found the agency mishandled data in 2013. FEMA awarded contracts to 1,660 different entities in the last fiscal year, according to federal contracting data, covering everything from food to construction equipment. The privacy breach is likely to prompt further criticism of an agency that was stretched to its limit in the second half of 2017 as it responded to a string of record-breaking hurricanes, wildfires and other natural disasters. In particular, FEMA struggled to deliver food and water in a timely fashion to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria killed nearly 3,000 people and left the island's 3.7 million residents without electricity for several months. FEMA director Brock Long faced criticism last fall when DHS determined that he had inappropriately used government vehicles to commute between Washington and North Carolina. He resigned in February, capping an 18-month tenure during which the agency responded to more than 220 declared disasters. Harold J. DeBlieck age 64, of Osakis died on Sunday, December 5, 2021, at Alomere Hospital in Alexandria. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, December 10, 2021, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Osakis. Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM on Thursday, Dec Young Adelaide (Madison Curry) in Us. Photo: Universal Pictures Note: This entire piece is filled with major spoilers about Us. If you havent seen the movie, do not read it until after you have seen it unless you want the whole movie to be ruined for you. There are many ways to interpret Jordan Peeles Us and the scissor-wielding doppelgangers who dwell within it. The subterranean shadow people relegated to living in Americas collective basement a basement that has existed for years, as the opening titles proclaim and the final act of the film explains in more detail can be viewed as the lower class that has historically been ignored and stripped of their humanity in this country. The most immediate, obvious take on Us, and one that is completely valid, is to view it through that lens, as a statement on the insidiousness of oppression. But the disturbing beauty of Peeles second big-screen horror project is that its possible to glean more than one meaning from it. Which is why I also view it as a commentary on Generation X, a marginalized group thats long realized the promises made during its youth will never be fulfilled. The main character in Us is Adelaide, played as a child by Madison Curry and as an adult by Lupita Nyongo. We first meet her in 1986, when she is roughly 7 or 8 years old, which means she was likely born in 1978 or 1979, the same year writer-director Peele was born. That puts Adelaide on the latter end of the Xer spectrum. (The Pew Research Center recently defined Gen X as Americans born from 1965 through 1980.) Us is rife with cultural reference that are specific to the X generations coming-of-age years, right from its opening scene in which a television broadcasts a commercial for Hands Across America (more on that later) while Adelaide watches, her reflection faintly visible in the TV screen. The pop culture Adelaide is consuming shes watching the commercial on MTV on a TV flanked by VHS tapes of C.H.U.D., The Goonies, Nightmare on Elm Street, and The Right Stuff takes over the frame, telling Generation Xers that what were looking at is us: kids who grew up in the glow of the television, nurtured by what it fed us, often while our parents werent paying attention. (A few minutes later, when Adelaide and her parents go on their fateful outing to the Santa Cruz boardwalk where Adelaide first comes face-to-face with her double, its clear that Mom and Dad dont get along and that Adelaides dad, in particular, can be negligent and irresponsible.) The 80s and 90s references that pop up like gentle, nostalgia jump scares throughout Us are not just signifiers of an era, or reminders of the touchstones that shaped Adelaide and her husband, Gabe (Winston Duke). They each have been carefully selected and spread out like clues that, in retrospect, hint at the very essential plot of Peeles movie: that Adelaide, and everyone else, has a double thats living life in the Us version of the Upside Down. (The Downstairs?) The VHS tapes I mentioned earlier speak to that upstairs/downstairs duality. Each of those movies centers around things living at the bottom creatures that lurk beneath the sewers (C.H.U.D.), kids that venture into underground tunnels (The Goonies), a child killer burned in a basement boiler room (Nightmare on Elm Street) except for one, The Right Stuff, which is about a group of white men aiming to soar into space, where they can (briefly) exist high above everyone else on Earth. Subsequent pop culture allusions nod to the notion of hidden others. At the beach in Santa Cruz in 1986, when Adelaide arrives with her parents, she notices that a movie is being shot on the other side of the boardwalk. That movie is The Lost Boys, which would have been in production in the spring of 1986 in the Santa Cruz area before its eventual release in summer 1987. Notably, thats a film in which Santa Cruz doubles for the fictional Santa Carla, and in which a bunch of seemingly normal well, normal-ish biker teens are hiding the fact that they are vampires who regularly hang out in an underground cave. Later at the boardwalk, Adelaides dad wins her a prize: a Michael Jacksons Thriller T-shirt, featuring an image from the King of Pops groundbreaking video for his albums title track. Before this night, that video may have been Adelaides first introduction to horror; we hear her mother admonish her father for giving her the shirt and for showing her that video in the first place, because it scared her. (Again, in the Xer experience, parental guidance may have been suggested, but that doesnt mean parents actually provided it.) Jackson and that video loomed large in the childhood of anyone who grew up in the 1980s. But its especially relevant to Us since during that clip, Jackson reveals twice that theres something sinister lurking beneath his surface: first, in the 50s horror movie within the video, when he comes out as a werewolf (Im not like other guys), and later, when he reveals himself to be a zombie with killer dance moves. The fact that, as Leaving Neverland has recently driven home, real-life Jackson may have had another monstrous alter ego adds another, likely unintended, layer to Peeles decision to clothe his heroine in Thriller at the moment when her mischievous other, the so-called Red, succeeds in taking over her identity. Even the throwback references in the present tense of Us are very deliberate. When Gabe and Adelaide mention Home Alone during an argument, theyre acknowledging a work thats, in a way, Us turned inside out. Its a home invasion movie that plays for laughs instead of gasps, and is about a young boy left behind by negligent parents, but in an attic rather than an odd basement laboratory. When the Tylers are killed by their own tethereds, the song Good Vibrations by the Beach Boys, an upbeat baby boomer favorite released in 1966, is playing on their Ophelia, the Us version of an Alexa. When the Wilsons show up at the Tylers home, having narrowly escaped their own murderous copycats, they change the song to 1988s Fuck Tha Police by NWA, a switch that signifies that this black family is about to get to work on these homicidal Xeroxes of white people. But its also an audio marker of generational change: The Beach Boys have been replaced by NWA, and the Xers, not the boomers, are now the grown-ups trying to survive and keep their kids safe. Then theres Hands Across America, which winds up playing a central role in how the real Adelaide plans to reclaim the life that was stolen from her by Red, the clone who left Adelaide many feet underground and assumed her identity. Part one of the plan is, of course, to murder the doubles enjoying all the benefits of earthly life that have been denied to those down below. Part two is to form a human chain of people holding hands from sea to shining sea, akin to what was done on May 25, 1986, when Hands Across America took place. If youre like me, you walked out of the theater post-Us, thinking, among other things: What the hell did Hands Across America have to do with anything? That event, a fund-raiser for Americas hungry and homeless organized by the USA for Africa organization, took a total of 15 minutes to unfold. Fifteen minutes: The same amount of time it took for young Adelaide to go missing, the number of minutes it was supposed to take the police to get to the Wilsons house, an amount very close to the run time of Michael Jacksons video for Thriller, and how long it took in May 1986 to, allegedly, make the world better for the less fortunate. Except Hands Across America didnt make the world better for the less fortunate. There were all kinds of logistical issues associated with organizing it and, ultimately, the 1980s equivalent of holding up one massive Free Hugs sign didnt raise nearly as much money as hoped. (The total came in around $15 million, rather than $50 million.) But Adelaide, whose last memories of life as a normal kid living in a regular house included watching that Hands Across America promo, never knew how the event played out. She was tucked away from the real world by the time that happened. Hands Across America sounds like such a stupid idea now youre just going to get together and hold hands? and admittedly, also sounded pretty stupid at the time. But at that point in the 1980s, after Live-Aid and Farm-Aid and We Are the World, when pop stars from Michael Jackson to U2 were sending messages about aspiring to achieve harmony and strive for social justice, the concept behind Hands Across America made a certain sense. And it looked less silly through the eyes of a child who was accustomed to holding hands to stay linked with classmates on field trips, or watching the Whos down in Whoville singing hand-in-hand every year on How the Grinch Stole Christmas, or cutting out an endless string of hand-interlocked paper dolls. (Certainly the Tethered carry scissors as their weapon of choice because they can be used to create those dolls, as Adelaide does when she confronts Red for the first time since their initial meeting. Also, a single scissors is referred to as a pair, much like each single person is actually a pair in the Us narrative.) Adelaide is part of the Free to Be You and Me generation, a group raised on that progressive, acceptance-preaching book/album/TV special and the ideals it espoused. (Know who participated in the TV incarnation of that famous project, spearheaded by Marlo Thomas? Michael Jackson.) She and her peers were teed up to believe that a better tomorrow one where gender and class and race didnt divide us was possible, even if it hadnt become reality yet. But then Adelaide got older and she realized that life wasnt improving, especially for her, it was just stuck. She had been forgotten, left out, quite literally replaced, and the world kept moving on without her as if she did not exist. Certainly that captures the sentiments of many in the lower and middle classes in this country. But if it doesnt also describe the feelings of the perpetually overlooked Gen Xers and can you blame for feeling overlooked when things like this and this happen constantly? I dont know what does. Generation X has a reputation for being cynical. Certainly the part of Adelaides plan that involves mass murder qualifies as cynical and dark. But theres part of her thats still fixated on the idea of Hands Across America and finally seeing it happen. The closing shots of the film, when we see all those red jumpsuited doppelgangers holding hands as far as the eye can see, suggests the second part of her mission was accomplished. Just as Home Alone can be construed as an inside-out version of Us, this Hands Across America 2.0 is an inside-out version of the real thing: Instead of a bunch of celebrities and suburban-ites intertwining fingers in a showy demonstration of support for those living below the poverty line, Adelaides version actually puts the people from below in the line. Unfortunately, the original Adelaide isnt able to kill the original Red and claim the spot that should have been hers: the independent, strong-willed mother in a relatively affluent family. Red holds on to her role as Adelaide. And that feels right for a film that, on one of its many levels, functions as an allegory for the Generation X experience. The real Adelaide, our Xer heroine, has been edged out of American life. And no one, save for possibly her son, Jason (Evan Alex), the kid who walks around dressed in Gen X clothing (the Jaws T-shirt, the Wookiee mask), even notices shes not there. At least 7 in 10 Democrats and about half of independents have approved of Muellers handling of the investigation in each Post poll since 2017. Trump has actively raged against the investigation, calling it a witch hunt over 100 times, and Republicans seem to have fallen in line. The share of Republicans disapproving of Muellers handling grew from 44 percent in November 2017 to 49 percent in January 2018 and 69 percent this February. Dear Heloise: My precious mother-in-law, who was from Missouri and lived to be 95-plus, rode to church with us. When she would come out of her house, she would say to us with a smile, "Too much health?" Meaning, had she overdone her makeup. What is the story behind the mannequin in the window at 515 N. Washington St. in Alexandria? It has been there for as long as I can remember. The mannequin has remained throughout the years despite changes in the buildings usage and ownership. My father told me it was put there after a night watchman was killed when the building was a warehouse. Its currently an apartment or condo called the Mill. Was my dad right? Until then, Spain had been run by an elected moderate liberal coalition of Republicans, a government known as the Second Republic. But in July 1936, Nationalists staged a military coup that resulted in the civil war, with Franco eventually leading the Nationalist side. He had the support of Nazi Germany and fascist Italy, while the leftists were backed by the Soviet Union and Mexico. In court Friday, Vazquez, through his attorney Robert Bonsib, rejected a plea deal by prosecutors. Prosecutors offered Vazquez a deal that included him pleading guilty to one felony count of second-degree child sexual abuse and two counts of misdemeanor sexual abuse. If he had agreed, prosecutors would have dropped other charges. If you go north of here, theyre only talking about 2020, said Reeves, who said he went to Washington recently for that purpose but declined to say with whom he met. As we get later in the year, theyll start to see 2019 as a bellwether for 2020. . . . They really need to understand the balance is literally two votes and that the Democrats already have national money coming in, and we havent seen anything. It may seem strange that any city needs a day to celebrate residents who grew up on its streets, but this is not just any city. In many hometowns, a corner store can remain a marker for generations. Here, in the nations capital a place that has seen riots, crack wars and white and black flight followed by a resurgence that many could not have imagined you can grow up on a block, leave for several years and barely recognize it (or the people who live on it) when you return. We like what the presidents doing, Sheldon said. As the farmer sees it, weve had times a lot worse for grain prices as weve got right now. We know Chinas been screwing us for years, not only on farm products but on technology. We know we can duck our heads and pull our boots on and get through this, and, in the long run, the whole country is going to be better off. Its results were definitive and explained the reason for Viviennes prolonged voicelessness. She was suffering from a rare disease called recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, which is caused by two strains of the human papilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection that can be acquired at or before birth. The disease is incurable; it can be treated by surgery to remove the tumors which temporarily restores the voice. The goal of treatment is to lengthen the interval between surgeries while preventing permanent damage to the delicate vocal cords. In the Inspector General report, FEMA said that once it became aware of the problem, the agency installed a data filter in December to prevent any unnecessary personal data of survivors from leaving its system. FEMA also said in the report that, since implementing its new procedures, it had twice sent internal security experts to conduct on-site checks of its network. Michigans settlement was between the states attorney general, Dana Nessel, and the American Civil Liberties Union, which sued in 2017 on behalf of two lesbian couples. In the lawsuit, one of the couples Kristy and Dana Dumont of Dimondale alleged that they were turned away from Catholic Charities and Bethany Christian Services because they are gay. Those two agencies, according to the Associated Press, were on average doing 25 to 30 percent of the states foster-care adoptions as of 2015. Hundreds of thousands rally against Bouteflika in Algeria: Hundreds of thousands of Algerians rallied to demand the immediate resignation of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who is fighting for his political survival in the face of unrelenting protests and the desertion of longtime allies. The march in the capital, Algiers, was largely peaceful, with police using tear gas only in isolated cases such as to stop youths approaching the presidential palace, according to a Reuters reporter and state news agency APS. "We stay here until the whole system goes," said Mahmoud Timar, a 37-year-old teacher. Bouteflika, 82, bowed to protesters last week by dropping plans to seek a fifth term. Mr. Trumps decision might be more defensible if it were part of a new and innovative U.S. policy in the region. But, like the move of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, it appears unattached to any strategy other than rewarding Mr. Netanyahu, who has become one of Mr. Trumps most conspicuous international supporters. The presidents tweet came as his ally struggles to fend off pending corruption charges and a stiff challenge in an election due April 9. No one will be surprised if more favors are dispensed when the Israeli leader visits the White House next week. Mr. Trump, like several presidents before him, is trying to sway an Israeli election only unlike Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, he seeks to help rather than hurt Mr. Netanyahu. We are looking for a clean, legal answer and it is something that is rare in these kind of cases, he said. What we have seen so far is already ugly, despicable, unpatriotic and unethical. However, by bluster, lies and attacking the system [Trump] has convinced a large minority of people that anything short of an arrest means that he is totally innocent and nothing happened. Whats known already is quite extraordinary, whether in terms of efforts by Russian intelligence to disrupt and influence the 2016 presidential election or in the number of contacts between associates of the Trump campaign and Russians. To some eyes, what happened adds up to collusion. Yet Muellers legal team ended its investigation without charging anyone with conspiracy against the United States. That will give the president his principal talking point from here forward, regardless of other questions about hush money, business overtures to the Russians and the like. Research suggests that nations with leaders who can reign for decades are less stable: A third of the 18 countries that do not have term limits are tangled in armed conflict, according to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, compared with only two of the 21 countries that do. It will be heartbreaking once we know the full extent, said Sebastian Rhodes Stampa, who is directing the United Nations response, as he has for other massive tropical storms such as Typhoon Haiyan in 2016 in the Philippines, which killed more than 10,000 per his estimate. Most of the bodies were likely swept out to sea and may or may not ever wash ashore. China, with its Belt and Road Initiative a vast multicontinent project of highways, rail lines and energy pipelines has been trying to expand its reach closer to the heart of Europe. Other European Union countries, mostly in the continents east, have already signed on to the project. However, diplomatic analysts say the involvement of Italy, a founding E.U. member, gives the project a particular boost of legitimacy. The deal would open the door for Chinese infrastructure investment in Italian ports, while making it easier for Beijing to gain influence and trade goods in Western Europe. For most of the past year, polls have shown a slight majority would now opt to remain in the bloc. Pollsters say that the small but persistent swing is partly the result of changing demographics. Younger people are overwhelmingly pro-E.U., and teens who couldnt vote in 2016 are now of voting age. The majority of voters 65 and older voted to leave the bloc and some of them have since died. Netanyahu reportedly appealed to Trump on the Golan last year, shortly after the president announced he would move the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. But the campaign did not begin to gain real traction until Bolton, an ardent hawk on Iran, arrived at the White House last spring. Talks underway with Russia to restart the cease-fire agreement negotiating joint drawbacks of U.S. and Iranian forces largely fell apart, according to senior officials involved in the process, when Bolton decreed that no U.S. troops would leave until all Iranian forces were out of Syria. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the Russia talks. The subject has been thornier for Republicans, who have condemned Saudi leaders over Khashoggis killing but wavered on whether to pull support for the military campaign as the president is expected to veto any congressional attempt to do so. Even those critical of the fight in Yemen have balked at endorsing a war-powers resolution because there are no U.S. ground troops there backing Saudi-led efforts against the Houthis and because bipartisan efforts to limit arms sales to Saudi Arabia dont have buy-in from party leaders. Regulations governing Muellers work, which centers on Russias interference in the 2016 presidential election and whether anyone in the Trump campaign conspired with those efforts, require the special counsel only to provide Barr with a confidential report explaining why he elected to prosecute certain individuals or declined to do so. Barr may release the report publicly, if he deems it in the public interest. That is not required, though he is under considerable pressure to do so. Judging by the headlines, youd think Michelle Wolf is an assassin. In 2018, according to some outlets, Wolf burned, bashed and eventually destroyed Donald Trump. This is news to her: the last time she checked, he remained in power. She doubts any humorist can topple a world leader and, despite media pitting her against the President, she rarely mentions him on stage. You can stand up and say, Trump is bad! and everyone claps, which is what a lot of [other comics] are doing right now, Wolf says, ahead of her first Australian performance next week. But youre not doing anything; you didnt make a joke and no one laughed. They just clapped their hands together which is what you do when a toddler does a dance. Michelle Wolf debuts at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival this year. Credit:Craig Blankenhorn Last April, Wolf drew international coverage of her comedic roast at the White House Correspondents Dinner. Republicans, Democrats and media all copped a bollocking. Beijing: A long-term coal supply deal between China and the United States wouldnt represent good commercial value compared to China buying Australian coal, a US energy security expert says. Donald Trumps trade negotiators travel to Beijing next Thursday to try to close a deal to end a damaging trade war with China, and billions of dollars in special energy and agricultural supply contracts are on the table. Australian coal has faced long delays unloading at Chinese ports since January, with Chinese customs stepping up environmental and quality checks. Chinese traders have reported only Australian and Mongolian coal appear to be impacted. China has reportedly slowed down imports of Australian coal through Dalian port. Credit:Phil Hearne It is entirely possible that what we are seeing in the Australian coal delay is due to China's managed trade as China is still a managed economy, says Jane Nakano, a senior fellow in the energy and national security program at Washingtons Center for Strategic and International Studies. Vietnamese products are favored by Cambodian consumers. (Photo: Nhan Dan News) The trade fair features nearly 100 booths by many enterprises of Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand. Vietnam sent 10 enterprises from the Mekong Delta province of Vinh Long to display high-quality products to local consumers, including textiles and garments, handicrafts, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, agricultural materials and plant varieties. Deputy Director of the Vinh Long Department of Industry and Trade Nguyen Van Con said this is the fifth year Vinh Long enterprises joined the trade fair, with the aim of introducing goods and expanding market; helping them further develop. The action aims to consolidate and develop the traditional solidarity between Vinh Long and Kampong Speu. Meanwhile, Governor of Kampong Speu province Vy Som Nang affirmed the participation of Vinh Long enterprises is a specific expression of the traditional solidarity and friendship between the authorities./. STAMFORD Two leading British art institutions said this week that they were turning down donations tied to members of the family who owns OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma, highlighting the growing scrutiny of the Sacklers philanthropy. The Tate group of galleries said the Sacklers had given generously in the past but under the present circumstances we do not think it right to seek or accept further donations. The announcement followed a joint statement by the National Portrait Gallery and the Sackler Trust that an approximately $1.3 million donation would not move forward. Nonprofits in the U.S., U.K., and other countries that have received donations from the Sacklers one of the most-prolific philanthropic families in the U.S., with an estimated net worth of $13 billion have come under mounting pressure in recent months to cut ties with the Sacklers. Lawsuits filed by Connecticut, Massachusetts and other parties allege that the family members who control Purdue have orchestrated deceptive marketing of opioids such as OxyContin that has fueled the U.S. opioid crisis. In the U.K., Sacklers support several dozen museums, hospitals, universities and other institutions. Two charitable funds run by the London-based side of the family have made grants totaling more than $100 million, according to the Evening Standard. In contrast with the Tate and National Portrait Gallery, American nonprofits have been much more reluctant to distance themselves from the family. Some recipients such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art which has a Sackler Wing have said that they would review their gift-acceptance policies, but they have not ruled out accepting more contributions. In Stamford, the company ranks as one of the top corporate donors. It has given between $500,000 and $1 million to the Mill River Park Collaborative, the nonprofit that oversees the downtown park and sponsors the Stamford Downtown Special Services District. It completely undermines the DSSDs mission, in my opinion, said Fernando Luis Alvarez, a DSSD board member and art gallery owner who was arrested last June for his role in a protest last June outside Purdues downtown Stamford headquarters. Organizations that represent the public and community, who are taking money from corporations and governments, should bear the responsibility to play in the best interest and safety of the community rather than their own vested interest. At 61 Atlantic St., The Palace Theatre has an art gallery that is named after Arthur Sackler, who died in 1987. He was a brother of the late Raymond and Mortimer Sackler, who bought Purdues predecessor company in 1952. Other major Connecticut-based beneficiaries include the University of Connecticut, Yale University and Greenwich Hospital. Particularly for the likes of UConn and Yale, but potentially also for others, this debate is more of a public relations and branding question, than one about charitable giving, said Karla Fortunato, president of the Connecticut Council for Philanthropy. From where I sit, charitable giving is always good. But I can see how organizations could decide for PR reasons, organizational values or brand reasons not to take these dollars. At least one Connecticut-based organization has cut ties. Stamford-based hedge fund Hildene Capital Management told investment entities of Sackler family members late last year that the firm was no longer comfortable managing their money. This article contains reporting from the Associated Press. pschott@scni.com; 203-964-2236; twitter: @paulschott With less than three months until a for-profit aquarium opens in Westfield Trumbull Mall, industry peers remain worried about how it will treat its exhibits. We are concerned when we read that SeaQuests operations in other locations not only have fallen short of (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) standards, they have triggered criminal charges and regulatory fines in response to their care of animals and their attempted procuring of species from the marine environment, reads a statement from the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, regarding the incoming 17,000 square-foot SeaQuest Interactive Aquarium. National issues SeaQuest has had its share of negative publicity through the years. The company has operations in Colorado, Nevada, Texas and Utah, with plans to open in other states, including Connecticut. Animal rights groups have accused the company of animal cruelty at several of its six locations. SeaQuest founder Vince Covino has been the target of criticism from animal welfare advocates over the companys stewardship of aquariums in San Antonio and Portland, Ore. His brother Ammon Covino was convicted on a charge of illegally shipping sharks and rays. The brothers have defended their record. Last summer, the state of Colorado issued a cease-and-desist order against a SeaQuest Interactive Aquarium in Littleton after state officials determined the site failed to pass numerous Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act inspections of its bird exhibit. An investigation was also opened in Colorado after reports of animals biting patrons and staff. National sources reported that at least 30 injuries were reported at the aquarium from June 2018 through January of this year. Animal advocates have also criticized the aquariums business in Nevada, citing accusations of neglect and mistreatment of wildlife. SeaQuest has disputed the allegations. Recent news stories have brought to light inaccurate and misleading information about SeaQuest, and how we care for the animals at our facilities, a SeaQuest spokesman wrote in an email to Hearst Connecticut Media. The SeaQuest family is committed to delivering a safe, educational and fun interactive experience at each of our facilities for the animals, our guests and team members. Reassurance Despite ongoing coverage of alleged abuse, mall and town officials have remained tight-lipped about the accusations against the company, not responding to repeated emails and phone calls from Hearst Connecticut Media asking for comment. SeaQuest told Hearst that it has reassured officials that the Trumbull location would be sensitive to the welfare of its exhibits. SeaQuest will never make a decision that will hurt an animal or put money before the health of an animal, read a statement from the company to the Town of Trumbull. In that same statement, the company said that its operations met and exceeded AZA requirements. In the past, SeaQuest has opted out of pursuing AZA accreditation, according to national sources. To say that their exhibits meet AZA standards for aquariums in particular our standards are the same as what USDA or NOAA would require, said Rob Vernon, spokesperson for the AZA. They are performance-based standards, not engineering-based standards. Vernon told Hearst Connecticut Media that none of SeaQuests locations have applied for or received the accreditation. There is certainly a big distinction between an accredited zoo and aquarium and a non-accredited facility, said Barrett Christie, Director of Animal Husbandry for the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, which has expressed concerns over the incoming SeaQuest venue. Lacking governing bodies The Trumbull location touts exhibits featuring sharks and stingrays among more than 300 species. Guests at other SeaQuest facilities are able to purchase snorkeling sessions among rays and fish lasting a half-hour. Depending on the animals that SeaQuest features in the Trumbull location, the company would need to have a license to display certain species to the public, experts said. In most states, there arent any governing bodies that can enforce animal safety and welfare of fish and reptiles Connecticut included. Its a very difficult case to prove, Bartlett said. There arent rigorous standards set for fish the way they way there are for mammals. In many cases, Bartlett said, organizations seek accreditation from third-party organizations to show they are operating at a high standard. The AZA, among others, offers a credential to facilities that meet extensive regulations, though its not mandatory to apply for it. The Norwalk and Mystic aquariums or Connecticuts Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport are AZA accredited. Contributions from Alexander Soule Jordan.grice@hearstmediact.com Julieta Cervantes / Contributed photo The Book of Mormon, which earned nine Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Score is headed to Connecticut. The national touring production will be at The Palace Theater in Waterbury, Tuesday, April 9, through Sunday, April 14. The show features book, music and lyrics by Trey Parker, Matt Stone and Robert Lopez. Parker and Stone are best known for creating the animated comedy, South Park. Lopez is a co-creator of Avenue Q, and has co-written music for films such as Frozen, among others. STAMFORD Packed in a Washington Boulevard mosque, more than 300 gathered Friday to hear a call to prayer and together reflect on last Fridays terror. The prayer hall wasnt busy last Friday, said Imam Nour Aldean. Only half the number of normal worshipers attended, with many afraid to go, he said. It was just hours after the slaughter of 50 Muslims during prayer at mosques half a world away. The blood of these people wasnt lost in vain, Aldean said. Their blood actually waters the seeds of hope. That hope, he said, was that all can learn to live together in peace. Before him Friday afternoon was a fine example. In the crowd sat rabbis and priests, the gray-bearded and young, with little in common beyond a lack of shoes. And that was just the men. Hundreds of women from many backgrounds prayed just up the stairs. The Islamic Cultural Center of NY-Stamford in downtown became a rallying place Friday for residents hoping to show support for the citys Muslim residents after the attacks in New Zealand that killed 50. Prayers facing Mecca came first as congregants intermingled with an outpouring of support that made the large prayer hall feel small. Residents of many faiths shuffled on the green-patterned carpet to form parallel lines of prayer before a rally outside with the mayor. It was good to see the support, said Sufian Hakeem, who has attended Friday prayers there for the last eight years. The rally, too, proved well attended with hundreds huddled in the March chill to hear pastors, rabbis and politicians denounce the hate that prompted the New Zealand killings and called for residents to live in peace. You are welcome in this city, said Mayor David Martin. We will do everything in our power to not only protect you, but to show we are all part of one community. The killings and the divisions that likely fueled them have become sadly common, said Rabbi Jay TelRav of North Stamfords Temple Sinai. I hate that it was so recently that so many of you came to pray with us after the attack in Pittsburg, TelRav said. But we saw you. Aldean and other mosque officials thanked the group which included several city Representatives for showing in force, and welcomed residents to ask questions and attend services. A poor understanding of the religion and tying all Muslims to extremists and terrorists only fuels Islamophobia, Aldean said. Terrorists are terrorists because they are bad people, not because they are Muslim, not because they are Jewish because they are bad people, he said. God did not command us to kill each other ... God commanded us to love each other. barry.lytton@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2263; @bglytton BRIDGEPORT The city school board chairman waited until 4 p.m. on a Friday to announce he was canceling the boards regular business meeting and replacing it with a student showcase on Monday. It is an event Board Chairman John Weldon said has been in the planning stages for the past couple of weeks. Weldon said the move to cancel Fridays meeting and replace it with Mondays showcase was in keeping with new bylaws that put him in charge of meetings and stripped regular meetings of student and staff recognitions and high school student reports. Contrary to what some have said, (the bylaw change) was not a maneuver to silence the voice of our student body, Weldon said. Rather, he said, he wants to keep regular business meetings focused on actionable business items and give school, student and staff recognitions their own dedicated spotlight. I thought doing something like this would give people a breather, something positive, Weldon said. Yet central office staff, he acknowledged, were directed not to talk about the meeting change to the media. Weldon said staff know they are not supposed to talk to the media until its final, final. Weldon said the program was finalized Thursday. It had to be properly noticed and clerked, Weldon said. This is the first time doing this. We didnt want to put it out there until everything was pulled together. The switch was not announced on the school boards website until close to 5 p.m. Friday. Earlier in the day, central office staff said they had no information about it or the status of the board meeting when contacted by Hearst Media. The first spotlight is set for 6 p.m. Monday at Cesar Batalla School, 606 Howard Ave. It will follow a 5:30 p.m. special meeting in the same location to handle to business items punted from what would have been the boards regular business meeting Friday. As a special meeting there can be no public comment. Both were posted on the district website minutes before 5 p.m. on Friday. Student representatives who used to give reports to the board will now give them at spotlight events. In addition, the Roosevelt School drumline, Batalla School modern band and Harding High School Choir will perform. I think it will be a very enjoyable event highlighting many great things that are happening in Bridgeport Public Schools, said Weldon, who promised a quorum of the board would attend. Although Weldon insisted the event was not a secret, not all school board members were apprised of the planned cancellation of the regular meeting or the replacement. Some board members knew, Weldon offered. Board Secretary Joe Sokolovic and board member Maria Pereira didnt know for much of the day Friday. They learned something was up when they did not get their regular board packets on Thursday. Pereira said she called the superintendents office and couldnt get a straight answer. This is a blatant attempt by Chair Weldon and his cohort to deny members of the public an opportunity to speak to the board on issues impacting our 20,400 students, parents and staff, Pereira said. This cancellation of another regular meeting even violates the illegal bylaws passed by Chair Weldon and his cohort. Sokolovic said he did not learn until 3 p.m. Friday the meeting was being replaced with a special one. He in turn was charged with filing a notice with the city clerks office before the end of the business day at 5 p.m. Under Freedom of Information laws, there needs to be a 24 business hour notice of public meetings. It was stamped in the City Clerks office at 4:26 p.m. Since the bylaw change, Weldon has canceled two out of three regularly scheduled business meetings. Pereira, who hopes to launch a legal challenge of the bylaw changes, called the situation war. lclambeck@ctpost.com; twitter/lclambeck Contributed / Contributed Photo WESTPORT A Brooklyn man impersonated a New York doctor in order to call in a prescription at a Westport pharmacy, police said. On Dec. 28, a local pharmacy reported a fraudulent prescription was called in to the store and that three fraudulent prescriptions for promethazine-codeine syrup were called into the pharmacy by the same patient over the previous two months, according to the police report. WESTPORT A Bridgeport woman issued a bad check to Honda of Westport, police said. On Feb. 21, Honda of Westport filed a complaint with the Westport Police Department, alleging Ashley Chestnut, 28, issued a $2,515 check on Jan. 12 as a down payment on a car that was later returned by the bank because it was drawn from a closed account, police said. Attempts to contact Chestnut for payment were unsuccessful. Police submitted a warrant for Chestnuts arrest and on March 19, officers responded to the Bridgeport Police Department where Chestnut was detained on the outstanding warrant. Chestnut was transported to Westport police headquarters and charged with third-degree larceny and issuing a bad check. She was released after posting $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in state Superior Court in Norwalk on March 28. svaughan@hearstmediact.com; 203-842-2638; @SophieCVaughan1 So, Staples High School is looking for a new principal. James DAmico the popular administrator who held the post since 2016 is moving north to his alma mater, New Fairfield High. DAmico succeeded another popular principal. John Dodig, recently retired after a long stint at one of Fairfields high schools, was hired in 2004 as an interim. He liked the school and town so much, he applied for the permanent position. He stayed 10 more years. Overall, Westport has done an excellent job hiring high school principals (no easy task). From Doug Young and Stan Lorenzen firm but fair men, perfect for their 1940s through early 1960s times to Jim Calkins, another interim choice who turned out to be a progressive, modernizing force while shepherding Staples through the turbulent late 1960s and early 1970s our district has, more often than not, put the right people in charge of our flagship school. Of course, hiring practices have changed since Horace Staples founded his school in 1884. The first principal, James Tufts of Amherst College, lasted just one year. He found it difficult to work under Mr. Staples, and developed typhoid fever. In 1885 Wilbur Cross a young man who, upon graduating the previous month from Yale University, planned a literary career, yet understood the necessity for a teaching career so he could support himself heard that Staples needed a principal for his new school 30 miles away. In his autobiography Connecticut Yankee, written 58 years later, Cross recalled calling at Staples office. The young man spoke into the mouthpiece of the older mans ear trumpet. The school benefactor made clear with cold civility that he preferred an Amherst man from Cape Cod for the position. However, the appointment would be made by a committee, comprised largely of clergymen. Cross sought out Rev. Alonzo Lewis, rector of Holy Trinity Church. The reverend was an 1852 Yale graduate and a member of the same Psi Upsilon fraternity to which Cross belonged. The two men talked in Lewiss library, smoking corncob pipes and sipping hard cider until 3 a.m. Cross got the job. When he called on Staples to accept the position, the housekeeper was away. There was nothing in the pantry to eat but bread, butter and fig pie, so they enjoyed a cask of excellent cider instead. As they discussed their impending partnership, an important issue arose: the salary. The founder said he would contribute $600 toward operating expenses of his school, while Cross would receive all tuition fees. With an enrollment of 60 students, that was expected to be $800. However, Cross also had to pay for heating the building ($400), and a part-time janitor ($300). If all went well, there would be left $700 for my services, Cross later recalled. At that point Cross, 23, and Staples, 84, began to dicker. In the end, Cross said, the old Yankee ... promised to pay for the janitor. Cross took the job. He stayed only a year, but it was memorable enough that he devoted seven pages to it in his autobiography. Enrollment increased, which pleased the old man. They developed a close relationship. Cross appreciated some of Staples thrifty quirks. Staples, in return, agreed to pay $300 for chemistry and physics equipment, simply because his principal asked for it. Following the custom of the day, Cross was an active principal (principal, in fact, meant principal teacher. His assistant was simply the second and only other teacher). Cross taught Latin, Greek and geometry, and introduced English literature at a time when the study of English in high schools rarely extended beyond grammar and composition. He recited great passages from Shakespeare, Milton, Wordsworth, Byron, Keats and Shelley, and encouraged his students to memorize something from every poem. At the end of the academic year Cross accepted a fellowship at Yale to study English literature and philosophy. He stayed in New Haven for many years, becoming a professor of English, the first dean of Yales graduate school, and a well-known critic of English literature. In 1930, age 67, he was elected Connecticuts first Democratic governor in 15 years. In 1941, in recognition of the governors support for the Merritt Parkway, its extension toward Hartford was named for him. His name also graces a building at the University of Connecticut, whose growth he supported during his term in office. Apart from Cross autobiography, few records remain of the earliest years. In 1886, he recommended fellow Yale man Thomas C. Stearns to replace him as principal. Nearly 135 years later, were looking again for a new principal. Perhaps another Yale man or woman. Dan Woog is a Westport writer, and his Woogs World appears each Friday. He can be reached at dwoog@optonline.net. His personal blog is danwoog06880.com. 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 In his introduction to Boom X, a play that seeks to encompass the age of Generation X, Rick Miller cites a Wikipedia description of people born from the early-to-mid-'60s to the mid-'80s, characterized as "directionless" and "disaffected." Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. In his introduction to Boom X, a play that seeks to encompass the age of Generation X, Rick Miller cites a Wikipedia description of people born from the early-to-mid-'60s to the mid-'80s, characterized as "directionless" and "disaffected." "So, hey, thanks for coming," Miller quips, in what should be considered a sardonic cautionary note: Not everyone is defined by the era in which they grew up. Like its baby-boomer forerunner Boom (seen at RMTC in 2016), Miller's Boom X strives to tell the story of a generation through a quick tour of its pop-culture highlights, specifically music and movies. Fleshing that out, Miller focuses on five real people, himself included, to act as guides. As in Boom, they are as disparate as train passengers in an Agatha Christie mystery ... until the relationships are revealed. They include Annika, an immigrant from East Germany, Steph, a girl from a hilariously homogenous small-town Ontario, Brandon, a black kid from Toronto, and Howard, a former Winnipegger searching for himself in the realm of Quebec academia. In theatre, Miller made a name for himself for his impersonations, especially in his much-seen fringe production of MacHomer. Since the show includes a boatload of musical samplings from each year between 1969 and 1995, it requires Miller supplies not only the voices of his chosen witnesses, but all the voices of everyone from Jimi Hendrix to Alanis Morissette, and not always especially well. Miller reminds one of a kid thrashing out hit after hit on his guitar in his room ... which, of course, he is. Photo of Rick Miller by Craig Francis. Still, this is not purely an exercise in cheap nostalgia. Miller, through his five characters, really makes an effort to put meat on the musical bones of the show with characters that offer perspective on the events that shape the decades, including Pierre Trudeau's invocation of the War Measures Act, the Live Aid broadcast, the murder of John Lennon, the fall of the Berlin Wall and the widescale devastation of the AIDS crisis. But it doesn't gel as it should. If you've already seen Boom, one may attribute a decline in excitement to exhaustion with the year-by-year format, which is more conducive to a Time-Life Greatest Hits CD library than a living, breathing piece of theatre. Miller is ultimately tethered by the show's format. One doesn't even have to have ventured beyond the two RMTC stages to have seen the one-man family memoir done better this season, most recently in Farren Timoteo's charming Warehouse show Made in Italy and especially in Robert LePage's recent mainstage show 887, which was likewise a Montreal memoir enhanced by high-tech stage trappings, but was still grounded by a compelling narrative through-line. Utilizing an elaborate set of angular screens and projections, Miller's show makes for an impressive spectacle. Alas, on the opening night, Miller's microphone suffered a minor failure that threw a wrench into the show's momentum, which should give Miller a caution: Tech will only take you so far. randall.king@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @FreepKing If you value coverage of Manitobas arts scene, help us do more. Your contribution of $10, $25 or more will allow the Free Press to deepen our reporting on theatre, dance, music and galleries while also ensuring the broadest possible audience can access our arts journalism. BECOME AN ARTS JOURNALISM SUPPORTER Click here to learn more about the project. Catherine Porters compassionate, unsentimental account of a growing friendship between a hard-nosed Canadian reporter (now the Canada bureau chief for the New York Times, based in Toronto) and a family who lost almost everything in Haitis 2010 earthquake began as a series of newspaper articles. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Catherine Porters compassionate, unsentimental account of a growing friendship between a hard-nosed Canadian reporter (now the Canada bureau chief for the New York Times, based in Toronto) and a family who lost almost everything in Haitis 2010 earthquake began as a series of newspaper articles. So much more than strung-together set pieces, Porters memoir, A Girl Named Lovely, allows North American readers insight into individuals whose poverty is as incomprehensible as their love for each other, while also perceptively describing the quagmire that people trying to help in Haiti often find themselves in and even create. The goudougoudou (a word coined by Haitians to describe this quake in particular) pulverized thousands of buildings, killing and maiming on a massive scale. In a country where the mere ability to eat every day put you in the middle class, the ensuing chaos meant life for the poorest inhabitants became even more precarious. Porter was a columnist for the Toronto Star and already a National Newspaper Award winner when her editor asked her to cover the disaster, less than two weeks into the aid effort. She set out with firm journalistic principles, convinced that she could help most by telling the stories of those affected by the quake and not becoming personally involved. Those journalistic principles came under severe fire, however, when Porter heard of a "miracle child" a two-year-old girl found not only alive but without a scratch, after six days under the rubble. Doctors found shed been malnourished for a long time, making her physical survival even more of a wonder. Everyone assumed her parents were dead. Traumatized, the girl cried for days, barely spoke and curled up in a fetal position until a retired nurse took to holding her all hours of the day and night; once her sense of playfulness returned, they knew shed made it through. On a subsequent trip, Porter heard that the girl was named Lovely, and that she had been reunited with her parents. Meeting the girl and her extended family, almost all illiterate and barely surviving, Porter found herself compelled to help forge some kind of future for them, paying school tuition for the children, providing start-up cash for Lovelys mothers business and enrolling her readers back home in a project to fund a school. It was the beginning of a long and bumpy road together. Porters style in A Girl Named Lovely is more straightforward than literary journalism from writers such as Kamal Al-Solaylee (Intolerable) or Nahlah Ayed (A Thousand Farewells), but she has a gift for letting the people she meets tell their own stories in their own words, moving us to feel real joy and real dismay with Lovelys family, and awe at the simple caring so evident in so many. This book is also a wake-up call for those of us lucky enough to live in Canada. Ursula Fuchs is a Winnipeg registered nurse. The film Level 16 is a grim dystopian tale in which girls spend their lives in a barren facility being indoctrinated with lies, until they learn the horrible truth of their existence upon turning 16. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The film Level 16 is a grim dystopian tale in which girls spend their lives in a barren facility being indoctrinated with lies, until they learn the horrible truth of their existence upon turning 16. MOVIE PREVIEW Click to Expand Level 16 Written and directed by Danishka Esterhazy Starting Thursday, March 28 Cinematheque 102 minutes The film, opening Thursday at Cinematheque, has been a critical sensation in some of the genre festivals its played, including Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas. But for Winnipeggers, it may be notable that Level 16 was at least partially inspired by writer-director Danishka Esterhazys experience going to Nelson McIntyre Collegiate. The Edmonton-born, Winnipeg-raised Esterhazy, 49, shot two low-budget independent films in Manitoba, the gothic-frontier romance Black Field (2009) and H & G (2013), a neorealist spin on the Hansel and Gretel fairy tale. But if things had gone according to her plan, Level 16 would have been her debut project after studying film in Toronto. MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Writer-director Danishka Esterhazy had been wanting to make Level 16, her new dystopian sci-fi/horror feature, for years, but struggled to find funding. "I wrote it right after going to the Canadian Film Centre and I was convinced it was going to be my first feature," she says. "But I just couldnt get it funded. I never gave up on it and we were chasing down funding for that. But year after year, I was getting told no." One problem she faced was the absurd notion that women and science fiction dont mix. "When I started pitching this film, I would get these really blank stares and people would say outrageous things like: Women dont like science fiction. Women dont go to science fiction. People who do like science fiction would never want to see a story about women. "The stuff was ridiculous," Esterhazy says. "They had a really narrow understanding of that world and that was a big barrier to raise funding." When I started pitching this film, I would get these really blank stares and people would say outrageous things like: Women dont like science fiction. Women dont go to science fiction. People who do like science fiction would never want to see a story about women. It may be the film was simply ahead of its time. To garner interest, Esterhazy created a "lookbook" designed to give prospective producers an idea of how the film might look using photographs and illustrations. She included a shot of Margaret Atwoods novel The Handmaids Tale and was told she should remove it, because the movie adaptation a 1990 flop starring Natasha Richardson and Faye Dunaway had shown it was not a marketable concept. "They said, Youre going to make yourself look bad if you reference that, and I was like, No, its a really good novel. The successful Hulu TV adaptation of Atwoods book changed that perception in fact, it may have been decisive in getting her film made, Esterhazy says. "People were finding it super-engaging and really well done and very intelligent. And I was saying: Yes thats what were trying to do! So that helped." Vivien (Katie Douglas) is trapped in the Vestalis Academy, a prison-like boarding school. (Raven Banner) The Times Up and #MeToo movements likewise helped get the project on the industry front burner. "It really means the people are suddenly aware of inequality in the film industry, so when we bring it up, were not totally out of left field." Esterhazy felt the time was right for stronger representation from women in the science fiction-horror genre. "Ive been reading science fiction and Im a huge fan of it and I have not seen a lot of science fiction about women, for women, made by women," she says. "So when I became a filmmaker, I thought, Thats one of the things Id like to contribute. " "Ive been reading science fiction and Im a huge fan of it and I have not seen a lot of science fiction about women, for women, made by women. So when I became a filmmaker, I thought, Thats one of the things Id like to contribute. " While science fiction may offer a far-out premise, its always important to base it on real experience. For that, Esterhazy only had to look back on her life in public school. "I thought about my own feelings in high school in Winnipeg at Nelson McIntyre Collegiate," she says, unwistfully. "I thought about how much I hated high school here. "Actually, I thought that the educational systems here were extremely oppressive and didnt encourage free thought or critical thanking and didnt really do anything to challenge or enlarge you intellectually," she says. "Really, they were just kind of schools of conformity (where you) learn how to behave, keep your head down and not challenge authority," she says, adding: "I had green spiky hair and I was one of those kids who got in trouble because I wouldnt stand for God Save the Queen and I was constantly in battle with the authorities." Danishka Esterhazy, right, directs Celina Martin as Sophia in Level 16. (Raven Banner) Esterhazy ultimately ended up making her dream project in Hamilton, Ont., not Manitoba, after failing to get traction in the local industry. "Ive been spending my winters in San Francisco where my husband, Jonathan, works," she says. "We finally sold our house in Winnipeg." MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Writer-director Danishka Esterhazy had been wanting to make Level 16, her new dystopian sci-fi/horror feature, for years, but struggled to find funding. She now lives in Greeley, Ont., near Ottawa, "because we have family there and its very close to Toronto. After sitting here in Manitoba for decades, suddenly I never know where Im going to be from month to month." The filmmaker has another movie shes hoping to shoot in Ontario, a winter thriller for which shes been writing a script for a few years. Shes optimistic it will be green-lit by the end of 2019. Since December, Esterhazy has been in Cape Town, South Africa, shooting her next project, also in the horror genre, for the Syfy Channel. The Banana Splits is an unlikely thriller based on the HR Pufnstuf-like late-60s variety show The Banana Splits Adventure Hour. In the story, a boy goes to a taping of the show for his birthday, and things take a violent, gruesome turn. "Theres lots of blood," Esterhazy said. "Its going to be super fun." randall.king@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @FreepKing 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. If you value coverage of Manitobas arts scene, help us do more. Your contribution of $10, $25 or more will allow the Free Press to deepen our reporting on theatre, dance, music and galleries while also ensuring the broadest possible audience can access our arts journalism. BECOME AN ARTS JOURNALISM SUPPORTER Click here to learn more about the project. For the past decade, the Winnipeg Wine Festivals public tastings have included a theme region. The chosen region is given more space at the public tastings for a wider range of products some new and/or exclusive to the festival to be poured for the thousands of people who every year. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion For the past decade, the Winnipeg Wine Festivals public tastings have included a theme region. The chosen region is given more space at the public tastings for a wider range of products some new and/or exclusive to the festival to be poured for the thousands of people who every year. California, Chile, Australia and Canada have each been in the spotlight twice, Argentina and New Zealand split the bill one year; in 2018, organizers looked across the pond to Europe for the first time, highlighting wines from Italy. This years public tastings (held at the RBC Convention Centre) will once again feature an Old World wine-producing region, with vino from Spain taking centre stage at the May 3 and 4 public tastings. Meanwhile, this years recently announced ancillary tastings leading up to the weekend typically smaller, more manageable affairs at a wide range of venues throughout the city explore all corners of the wine-producing world. Argentina is first out of the gate with its annual Malbec World Day, taking place at the Winnipeg Winter Club (200 River Ave.) from 7 to 9 p.m. on April 17. In addition to a focus on the South American countrys flagship red grape, a handful of sparkling and white wines will also be featured, as all manner of Argentine food (think empanadas and plenty of beef). The week prior to the May 3 and 4 public tastings is when the frequency of ancillary events really picks up. On April 28, the Winnipeg Wine Festival introduces a new event, Brunch and Bubbles, at Blaze Bistro at the Delta Hotel (350 St. Mary Ave.) from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The name of the event pretty much says it all expect plenty of fizzy wines and brunchy bites. Later that night the focus returns to southern hemisphere wine regions as Rudys Eat and Drink (375 Graham Ave.) hosts Australia and New Zealand wineries at the Down Under event from 7 to 9 p.m. There should be lots of Aussie Shiraz and New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, among other sippables. April 29 sees the focus turn back to Europe, with a pair of evening events sure to either up your quota of la dolce vita or joie de vivre. Kitchen Sync (370 Donald St.) plays host to all manner of Italian food and wine with a kitchen party offering regional wine-and-food pairings, while Resto Gare (630 Des Meurons St.) hosts the Vive La France event that focuses on French fare (obviously). Both events run from 7 to 9 p.m. The following night, April 30, features a trio of events sure to please plenty of palates. California producers will kick it old school at Rae & Jerrys Steakhouse (1405 Portage Ave.) from 7 to 9 p.m., with big bold reds, whites and more from the Golden State paired alongside classic cuisine. And while British Columbia and Ontario wines are no laughing matter on the global stage, theyll be poured at the Gas Station Arts Centre (445 River Ave.) from 6 to 7:15 p.m., prior to the Red Carpet Comedy event taking place at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Winnipeg Comedy Festival. Finally, if Spanish wine and food is more your cup of tea, a three-course sit-down meal with wine from 7 to 9 p.m., led by Canadian master of wine Elsa Macdonald, was slated to take place at Fionn MacCools (1582 Regent Ave. W.), which has since closed. Organizers have indicated the event will still take place at a location yet to be determined. May 1, leading up to the public tastings, typically highlights the Winnipeg Wine Festivals feature region, and this year is no exception. The Savour Spain event will see cava, Rioja reds and crisp fresh whites (as well as the odd sherry, perhaps) flowing freely from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Qualico Family Centre in Assiniboine Park. Tickets for the Winnipeg Wine Festivals ancillary events are on sale now, starting at $50. To buy tickets and for more information, visit winnipegwinefestival.com. uncorked@mts.net Twitter: @bensigurdson 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. Wines of the week Bodega Alamos 2017 Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina $15.99, Liquor Marts and beyond) Bright purple in colour, this Argentine red brims with aromas of brambly blackberry, plum, blueberry, cocoa and baking spices. On the jammy, full-bodied palate, theres more of that concentrated dark fruit, with some white pepper and black tea notes, as well as light tannins and a splash of acidity. Its a relatively simple but fun example of Malbec. On sale for $14.39 plus taxes until Sunday. Torres 2015 Celeste Crianza (Ribera del Duero, Spain $22.99, Liquor Marts and beyond) A year in French and American oak barrels has imparted distinct cocoa and vanilla aromas to go along with the soft blueberry and tart raspberry notes of this Spanish red, made from the Tempranillo grape. Its a plush, medium-plus bodied red that sees those notes from the oak flesh out the slightly subdued raspberry and blackberry flavours. Its a little more fruit-forward/New World in style than many other rustic Spanish reds; a newer vintage might help pep things up a bit. On sale for $17.99 until Sunday, so act fast if youre interested. 1/2 Nichol 2017 Pinot Gris (Naramata Bench, B.C. around $22, private wine stores) In appearance, this certainly isnt your typical Pinot Gris rather than being pale straw or gold in colour, its a pale pink that comes from some extended skin contact as the grapes macerate prior to fermentation. Aromatically, it brings plenty of fresh peach, watermelon, pear and sweet apple notes, with some intriguing chalkiness. On the light-bodied palate, those ripe fruit flavours persist, and the underlying chalkiness is helped along by very light tannin (from the skin contact) that brings great texture paired with some modest acidity. A great way to gear up for warmer weather. The Boeing 737 Max passenger jets that crashed in Ethiopia and Indonesia, killing hundreds, reportedly lacked special safety features in their cockpits features Boeing charged extra for. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The Boeing 737 Max passenger jets that crashed in Ethiopia and Indonesia, killing hundreds, reportedly lacked special safety features in their cockpits features Boeing charged extra for. Meanwhile, buyers of new cars have to decide how much extra they want to shell out for add-on safety features, such as lane-departure warnings, technology that could save the lives of drivers and those around them. This raises an intriguing question for the digital age: Should safety be a premium service? Put another way, if a plane, car or other machine can be made demonstrably safer through something as simple as a software upgrade or a mechanical tweak, is there an obligation for manufacturers to ensure that users are protected by the most up-to-date features? Put yet another way, should safety be enjoyed only by those who can afford it? The answers seem obvious. "Consumers shouldnt have to pay extra for safety features, because paying extra means that they are not available to everyone and theyll cost more than they should," said Jack Gillis, executive director of the Consumer Federation of America. "By simply incorporating the latest safety features into a product, two things happen," he said. "They are available to everyone, thus everyone benefits, and they become cheaper due to economies of scale." But theres the rub. If a product can be manufactured and sold more cheaply, yet still have an adequate level of safety, is it truly necessary to require that everything have the latest-and-greatest technological systems? Computers can be designed, for example, that are far more difficult to hack than off-the-shelf laptops you might find at Best Buy. But theyll cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars more. I doubt anyone would argue that the cheaper, run-of-the-mill devices shouldnt be sold. Rather, they should be offered on a buyer-beware basis. Many drivers will say theyre willing to take on a heightened risk with themselves at the wheel. On the other hand, most probably agree that when it comes to aircraft, with strangers at the controls, cutting corners is never a good idea. The New York Times reported Thursday that Boeing and other aircraft manufacturers routinely offer a variety of safety-related features as add-ons for their high-priced jets. For example, a backup fire extinguisher in the cargo hold. That sounds like a good thing to have in the event of a midair blaze. Some countries require that their carriers have such technology. The Federal Aviation Administration doesnt. So Boeing charges extra for the system. The same approach apparently was taken to an early-warning indicator that might have helped prevent the Ethiopian and Indonesian crashes, if it had been installed on the doomed jets, which it was not. I reached out to Boeing for comment. No one got back to me. An FAA investigation is underway. A spokeswoman for the Consumer Product Safety Commission said the agency has no official stand on people paying extra for safety technology. Consumer advocates, meanwhile, are unequivocal in calling for access to the very latest safety measures. "Safety should never be optional, let alone monetized for extra profit," said Emily Rusch, executive director of the California Public Interest Research Group. Gillis at the Consumer Federation of America pointed out that everyone benefits when products and especially modes of transport are the safest they can be. "For example, pedestrian-avoidance technology," he said. "Pedestrians benefit, even though they dont own a car. Furthermore, safer products across the board reduce the enormous societal costs of accidents and injuries." The bottom line is that the greater the risk to peoples lives and well-being, the greater the obligation to ensure that the most current safety features are incorporated. That seems especially true if such features are little more than software upgrades and cockpit indicators, as is the case with the improvements missing from the crashed jets. 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. Its offensive to think that plane manufacturers and automakers see enhanced safety as a privilege only for those who can afford it, whether were talking airlines or car buyers. "Safety technologies cannot be solely for the wealthy," said Sally Greenberg, executive director of the National Consumers League. "If theres a way to save lives and prevent injuries through technology, it should be standard equipment available to all consumers, regardless of income." Boeing apparently agrees. It was reported late Thursday that the company will start including as a standard feature on the 737 Max some of the safety gear that had been optional. But look what it cost to get there. Los Angeles Times Crossing the U.S. border with a Danish visitor in tow a few years back was an ordeal. The youth was taken into an office at the border crossing for more than an hour, during which time she was asked outright whether she was a tourist or a terrorist. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion Crossing the U.S. border with a Danish visitor in tow a few years back was an ordeal. The youth was taken into an office at the border crossing for more than an hour, during which time she was asked outright whether she was a tourist or a terrorist. As she emerged, somewhat dazed, from the experience, she observed the most pressing question shed been asked upon entering Canada was whether shed been on a farm recently. It sounds amusing, but the risk of agricultural threats in the form of invasive species, pests and disease inadvertently breaching our borders is no laughing matter in an export-dependent country like Canada. We only have to think back to 2003 and the havoc created when one cow was identified with the dreaded bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), which had found its way here through breeding stock, to understand that it doesnt take much for major customers to slam their doors to our exports. There are dozens of such threats, but the one keeping Canadas pork producers awake at night these days is African swine fever (ASF), a disease that surfaced last year in China. Official reports are scant, but anecdotal evidence reported by Reuters this week suggests the outbreak is more widespread than previously reported and spreading rapidly. Some estimates say it could reduce the countrys hog herd by as much as 30 to 40 per cent, and there are signs of it spreading throughout Southeast Asia. Pork sector officials estimate if ASF gets into Canada, it could decimate the industry, putting more than 100,000 jobs in jeopardy and costing the Canadian economy $24 billion. Swine fever only affects pigs. That said, it is human activity that spreads it around. It is highly contagious and easily spread through the transport of contaminated animals, meat products and feed ingredients. Infected animals develop a high fever and internal bleeding, and die. One confirmed case is usually a death sentence for any pigs that animal might have come into contact with, as officials move swiftly to contain the potential spread. There is no vaccine or treatment. Canadas best defence is to keep it out. It is no easy task, given the international flow of humans and goods on a daily basis. Thats the backdrop for the recent federal announcement of $31 million to increase the number of detector dogs sniffing out illegally imported meat products in peoples luggage at Canadian airports. Over the next five years, the funds will more than double the number of Animal Detector Dog Service (DDS) teams on the job, from 15 to 39. The threat is real. The International Swine Health Information Center reported in February about two per cent of 928 contraband pork products from China seized by Taiwan officials tested positive for ASF. 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. Its not just suitcase smugglers that have officials worried. Earlier this month, U.S. border agents checking incoming cargoes at the Newark, N.J., port uncovered what theyre calling the biggest agricultural bust in history one million pounds of illegal pork from China in shipping containers that also contained ramen noodle bowls and Tide detergent. In some cases, the pork products were actually hidden in the product packages listed on the manifest. If Canada is successful in maintaining border security, the Canadian pork sector could see an uptick in exports to replace lost meat production in China, says Mike Jubinville, a market analyst with Glacier FarmMedias MarketsFarm. However, a smaller Chinese pig herd also means a decline in demand for imported grains and oilseeds used in feed. The outbreak and its potential implications put a new spin on the long-standing debate over whether China will import more feed grains to support its own meat production, or whether it will import more meat to feed its populations growing demand for animal protein. Of course, the other big "if" in the equation is whether its ongoing diplomatic spat with Canada over the Huawei affair will cause it to shop elsewhere. If its decision to shut out Canadian canola is an indication, short-term prospects are limited. Laura Rance is editorial director at Glacier FarmMedia. She can be reached at lrance@farmmedia.com. OTTAWA Manitoba MPs want to fast-track hearings on Chinas escalating canola spat, while Canadas former ambassador says the Liberals need to push the United States to intervene. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA Manitoba MPs want to fast-track hearings on Chinas escalating canola spat, while Canadas former ambassador says the Liberals need to push the United States to intervene. "Today was a dramatic escalation of a story with respect to canola, thats been going on for some time," said Transcona-Elmwood MP Daniel Blaikie. On Friday, the Canola Council of Canada (CCC) said all its members were having their seeds blocked by China. MPs were supposed to meet Thursday to hear from high-ranking officials on how they've responded to Chinas sudden suspension earlier this month of Winnipeg-based Richardson Internationals canola seed-import licence, on the grounds of "dangerous pests." China's actions are widely viewed as retaliation for Ottawa's arrest last fall of Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. executive Meng Wanzhou at the request of United States tax authorities. Guy Saint-Jacques, who served as Canadas ambassador to China from 2012 to 2016, said the canola spat is clearly linked to Huawei case. JASON FRANSON / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES Guy Saint-Jacques, Canada's former ambassador to China "It's very unfortunate that farmers in Manitoba have to suffer because of a problem that was imposed on us by the U.S.," he told the Free Press. The Liberal chair of the House trade committee cancelled Thursday's scheduled hearings, due to the oppositions 30-hour filibuster over the SNC-Lavailin scandal. CCC head Jim Everson said companies are helping federal inspectors vet for any pests, and that this issue hadn't emerged with any other countries. "We are working closely with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) on a technical level to provide information from our industry about the issues that the Chinese have raised," he said in a Friday interview. Canada exported $2.7 billion in canola seed to China last year, as well as $1.1-billion in oil and $504.4 million of canola meal, according to the CCC. China accounts for 40 per cent of Canadas canola exports. Some shippers have reported a price drop in their exports elsewhere, and difficulty finding new clients in Japan, Europe and South Asia. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gave few details Friday on how Canada would respond, saying he was optimistic Canada could resolve the spat just as it had when China raised concerns about the blackleg pest in canola crops three years ago. TIJANA MARTIN / THE CANADIAN PRESS Prime Minister Justin Trudeau "Were going to roll up our sleeves and work with the Chinese officials to demonstrate that canola should continue to flow safely from Canada to China," Trudeau told reporters in Thunder Bay. "Were optimistic were going to be able to make headway, this year," he said. Saint-Jacques said the Liberals have done a good job of trying not to antagonize China, by focusing on the pest issue instead of making harsh statements. He said Ottawa was smart to convince other countries to speak out about other Huawei-related issues, like the detainment of Canadian citizens, because Canada alone holds minimal clout. Thats why he was surprised Friday morning to see China was lashing out at more canola firms. "I said to myself: Where will this stop? China is really playing hardball." Hes further concerned by the country acting to block a product popular with many of its citizens. "What I fear is that China now seems to be in the mentality that they dont care." That leaves Canada little room for manoeuvre: to get the Trump administration to push China to roll back its canola restrictions, or start a years-long trade lawsuit. Farmers feeling repercussions of trading spat MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Craig Riese Craig Riese, one of the 43,000 Western Canadian farmers who produce about 20 million tonnes of canola every year, can already feel the effects of the news this week that China, Canada's largest canola export customer, has halted Canadian canola imports. "Any time your number one exporting customer tells you they are not interested in your product, you have to be concerned," Riese said. But there are degrees of concern. MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Craig Riese click to read more Craig Riese, one of the 43,000 Western Canadian farmers who produce about 20 million tonnes of canola every year, can already feel the effects of the news this week that China, Canada's largest canola export customer, has halted Canadian canola imports. "Any time your number one exporting customer tells you they are not interested in your product, you have to be concerned," Riese said. But there are degrees of concern. Read the full story here. Close "We have to underline to the U.S. that they have put us in this mess, and this has the risk of translating into billions of dollars of lost sales for Canada companies," he said. Conservative MP Candice Bergen told the Commons about reports that China had expanded its restrictions to all forms of Canadian canola, as well as wheat, peas, linseed and canola meal. "The loss of this market is catastrophic, and it will cost billions of dollars to our economy," said the MP for Portage-Lisgar. Her Tory colleague Randy Hoback told reporters the loss of this market would reverberate across Canada. "The reason were in this quagmire is because our government hasnt done what it needs to do and created a good environment, working relationship with China to keep these markets open. Now Canadian farmers are paying because of that," said Hoback. The Saskatchewan MP added that the Liberal chair ought to not have cancelled Thursdays hearings, and could hold them over the weekend instead of the scheduled date of April 1. He argued that hearing from bureaucrats would reassure the markets and producers. "The instability in the marketplace is huge and farmers dont know where to turn," he said. The chair's office did not reply to an interview request. 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. Blaikie wants the trade committee to hear from officials on "what kinds of contingency plans have departments been working on," so MPs can assess them. "We want to make sure that this government actually has answers to those questions." Blaikie said the Liberals have worsened relations with China due to what he deemed a hypocritical approach to the rule of law. After Canada insisted it would never interfere in the Huawei prosecution, the government admitted to pressuring its former attorney general to allow an effective plea bargain in SNC-Lavalins corruption case, which has raised red flags for bodies like the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca With files from Martin Cash BISMARCK, N.D. - Parties involved in a dispute over whether North Dakota regulators should be involved in the siting of an oil refinery near Theodore Roosevelt National Park have filed their initial legal arguments in state court. Here's a look at the dispute over the $800 million Davis Refinery being built by Meridian Energy. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE--In this June 11, 2014 file photo, longhorn cattle wander through the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in the Badlands of North Dakota. Theodore Roosevelt ranched cattle while he briefly lived in North Dakota, before he was president. Parties involved in a dispute over whether North Dakota regulators should be involved in the siting of a controversial oil refinery near Theodore Roosevelt National Park are battling in state court. The dispute is over whether state regulators should have reviewed the site of the $800 million Davis Refinery. Environmental groups say yes, but developer Meridian Energy and the state Public Service Commission are both urging a judge to rule against a hearing. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File) BISMARCK, N.D. - Parties involved in a dispute over whether North Dakota regulators should be involved in the siting of an oil refinery near Theodore Roosevelt National Park have filed their initial legal arguments in state court. Here's a look at the dispute over the $800 million Davis Refinery being built by Meridian Energy. THE REFINERY Meridian wants to build the project just 3 miles (5 kilometres) from the park that's the state's top tourist attraction, drawing more than 700,000 visitors annually. The company says the facility will be the "cleanest refinery on the planet," a model for future plants and a boost for the area economy. Environmental groups worry pollution will erode air quality at the park and mar its majestic scenery. Meridian began site work last summer and plans to resume construction this spring with a goal of having the refinery fully operating by mid-2021. HOW MUCH OIL? The amount of oil Meridian says it will process at the refinery is central to why North Dakota regulators never considered the appropriateness of the site. Under state law, oil refineries with a capacity of 50,000 or more barrels daily need to obtain a site permit from the Public Service Commission, a process that involves public hearings and can take half a year or longer to complete. Meridian initially told the media, investors and government officials that the refinery would have a capacity of 55,000 barrels, but the company later lowered the figure to 49,500. FILE--This July 19, 2018, file photo, shows the property in southwest Belfield, N.D that is the future home The Davis Refinery near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Parties involved in a dispute over whether North Dakota regulators should be involved in the siting of a controversial oil refinery near Theodore Roosevelt National Park are battling in state court. The dispute is over whether state regulators should have reviewed the site of the $800 million Davis Refinery. Environmental groups say yes, but developer Meridian Energy and the state Public Service Commission are both urging a judge to rule against a hearing. (Tom Stromme/The Bismarck Tribune via AP) THE LEGAL CHALLENGE The Environmental Law and Policy Center and the Dakota Resource Council believe Meridian pulled a fast one. The groups criticized the commission for trusting the company and appealed to district court. WHAT DO THE ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS SAY? In their initial argument filed late last month, the groups say they haven't even been given an opportunity to make their case in a formal hearing. They want a chance to question Meridian CEO William Prentice about an affidavit he signed last August saying the company has "no current plans" for any expansion beyond 49,500 barrels per day. "This statement flatly contradicted all publicly available information," their attorneys wrote. They offer a hypothetical comparison of an assault suspect getting off scot-free simply by signing an affidavit saying, "I didn't touch him." They go on to say, "This isn't a question of jurisdiction; it is a question of disputed material fact." They want a judge to send the case back to the commission with orders for a hearing. WHAT'S THE COMMISSION'S POSITION? The agency contends it's following state law and that "the only disputed fact seems to be over Meridian's sincerity." In her initial court filing this month, Assistant Attorney General Jennifer Verleger turned to the silver screen to bolster her argument. "In the movie 'Minority Report,' police arrest perpetrators before they commit their crimes, based solely on the premonitions of psychics," she wrote. "In this case, the environmental appellants are the psychics asking PSC to take action against Meridian because they allege Meridian 'will soon' violate" the law. 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. Verleger argued that a hearing will not help "predict the future" and that the commission "must take Meridian at its word." WHAT'S MERIDIAN'S TAKE? Meridian has denied trying to skirt state law, and in its initial legal filing accused the environmental groups of yet another effort to "stymie progress" on the refinery. The groups have unsuccessfully sued over the project's county permit and state air quality permit, and now seek to "conduct overly broad and invasive discovery on irrelevant issues," Meridian attorney Lawrence Bender wrote. He argued that granting the environmental groups a PSC hearing "based upon their own speculation" would support their "fishing expedition" and create a giant legal loophole for opponents of future projects. ___ Follow Blake Nicholson on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/NicholsonBlake Craig Riese, one of the 43,000 Western Canadian farmers who produce about 20 million tonnes of canola every year, can already feel the effects of the news this week that China, Canada's largest canola export customer, has halted Canadian canola imports. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Craig Riese, one of the 43,000 Western Canadian farmers who produce about 20 million tonnes of canola every year, can already feel the effects of the news this week that China, Canada's largest canola export customer, has halted Canadian canola imports. "Any time your number one exporting customer tells you they are not interested in your product, you have to be concerned," Riese said. But there are degrees of concern. Riese typically splits his 5,500 acre farm evenly between cereals and oilseeds and while he said he may "tighten up" some of the traditional oilseed acres into cereal, it likely will not be a significant alteration. "We can't really deviate that much from what we do year to year," he said. "I can move a few hundred acres here and there and if we all do it, it will definitely bring the total acres down." 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. Canola prices have come down recently, a price correction, Riese believes, that is at least partially because of an oversupply of the oilseed on the market right now irrespective of the Chinese market issues. Jim Everson, the CEO of the Winnipeg-based Canola Council of Canada, said while he believes China remains a strong and important long-term customer for Canadian canola there are other countries "who value high quality Canadian canola." "But we think the fundamentals of our trade with China are very strong," Everson said. Riese said there are other markets for Canadian canola and he is taking the attitude that the sky is not necessarily falling. "This won't get resolved tomorrow but hopefully it's not a long-term thing," he said. "Things will move. We have a robust crushing industry in the province, thank goodness. I have a lot of canola in my bins, no doubt, but we'll market it." martin.cash@freepress.mb.ca JAKARTA, Indonesia - In a blow for Boeing, Indonesia's flag carrier is seeking the cancellation of a multibillion dollar order for 49 of the manufacturer's 737 Max 8 jets, citing a loss of confidence after two crashes within five months. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this April 28, 2017, file photo, Garuda Indonesia planes are parked on the apron at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Indonesia. Indonesia's flag carrier is seeking the cancellation of a multibillion-dollar order for 49 Boeing 737 Max 8 jets, citing a loss of confidence in the model following two crashes in the space of a few months. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara, File) JAKARTA, Indonesia - In a blow for Boeing, Indonesia's flag carrier is seeking the cancellation of a multibillion dollar order for 49 of the manufacturer's 737 Max 8 jets, citing a loss of confidence after two crashes within five months. It is the first announcement of a cancellation since Boeing's new model aircraft were grounded following fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. PT Garuda Indonesia, which had ordered 50 Max 8 jets in 2014 and had received just one plane last year, sent a letter to Boeing last week requesting to cancel the order worth $4.9 billion, company spokesman Ikhsan Rosan said Friday. The carrier has so far paid Boeing about $26 million for the order. Garuda joined other airlines worldwide in grounding its one Max 8 jet after the crash of an Ethiopian Airlines flight this month which killed all 157 people aboard. It came less than five months after 189 people died in the Oct. 29 crash of another Max 8, operated by Indonesian private carrier Lion Air. "Passengers always ask what type of plane they will fly as they have lost trust and confidence in the Max 8 jet," Rosan told The Associated Press. "This would harm our business." He said that Garuda plans to meet with Boeing representatives next week in Jakarta to discuss details of cancelling the order. "We don't want to use Max jets ... but maybe will consider switching it with another Boeing model of plane," Rosan said. He said Indonesian passengers are afraid to take flights using any Max model, whether it's the 8, 9 or 10 series. A preliminary report from Indonesia's National Transportation Safety Committee in December stopped short of declaring a probable cause of the Oct. 29 crash. Officials have provided scant details since then, saying they are still analyzing data from a cockpit voice recorder that was only recovered from the sea in January. Meanwhile, in Europe, Polish national carrier PLL LOT said it was considering asking for financial compensation from Boeing or even a delay to deliveries of purchased 737 Max 8 aircraft after the planes were grounded globally following the crash in Ethiopia. In a statement to the AP on Friday, LOT said it would wait for communications from Boeing and flight regulators on whether to put the Max 8 planes back into service. LOT has five 737 Max 8 planes and is to receive nine more this year. Its total fleet counts over 80 aircraft. Another Polish carrier, charter airline EnterAir, said Friday it would also seek damages. It has two Max 8 planes and has placed orders for another four. Earlier this month, Norwegian Air Shuttles said it would seek compensation from Boeing. It had grounded its 18 Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft. With Boeing's backlog of 4,600 unfilled orders for Max jets, the loss of the Garuda order figures to have little financial impact on the Chicago-based company. The danger is that other airlines could follow, particularly if investigators fault the plane for the accidents in Indonesia and Ethiopia. "We think other cancellations may follow as global customers remain spooked after two crashes with seemingly similar causes," Jim Corridore, an airline analyst with CFRA Research, said in a note to clients. 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. Corridore said, however, that if Boeing delivers a software patch to a flight-control system suspected in the crashes, and the planes are allowed to resume flying, "most customers will be reassured." He said investors will eventually focus on strong demand for airliners. The Wall Street Journal reported late Friday that federal investigators are looking into whether Boeing gave U.S. regulators and the company's customers incomplete or misleading information about the jets. The report cited people familiar with the matter who were not named. Earlier this week, a person briefed on the matter told The Associated Press that U.S. prosecutors are looking into the development of the 737 Max jets. The Transportation Department's inspector general is also investigating the FAA's approval of jets, a U.S. official told AP. Boeing Co. shares closed Friday down $10.53, or 2.8 per cent, at $362.17 amid a broad stock market decline. Boeing shares have dropped 14 per cent since the Ethiopia Airlines crash. ___ AP Airline Writer David Koenig in Dallas contributed to this report. ROME - Italy signed a memorandum of understanding with China on Saturday supporting Beijing's "Belt and Road" initiative, which aims to weave a network of ports, bridges and power plants linking China with Africa, Europe and beyond. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, and Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte meet at Rome's Villa Madama, Saturday, March 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) ROME - Italy signed a memorandum of understanding with China on Saturday supporting Beijing's "Belt and Road" initiative, which aims to weave a network of ports, bridges and power plants linking China with Africa, Europe and beyond. With the move, Italy becomes the first member of the Group of Seven major economies, which includes the United States, to join the Belt and Road program, following Portugal's embrace of the initiative in December. Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte and Chinese President Xi Jinping attended a ceremony in Rome where 29 separate protocols of the memorandum were signed by both governments in front of the flags of China, Italy and the European Union. Luigi di Maio, the Italian minister of economic development, told reporters afterward that his country's goal is to increase exports to China in order to correct trade imbalances and boost Italian businesses and the country's troubled economy. He said the value of the individual deals signed on Saturday amounts to 2.5 billion euros ($2.8 billion), with the potential to grow to 20 billion euros ($22.6 billion) "Our goal with these accords is to start to rebalance an imbalance for which there is a lot of 'Made in China' coming to Italy and too little 'Made in Italy' that goes to China," Di Maio said. Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte walk past the honor guard during their meeting at Rome's Villa Madama, Saturday, March 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) He said Italy now expects "a substantial and gradual increase of exports and we hope that in the next years we can balance out the trade imbalances." Italy's move appears to also be driven by hopes that Chinese investment in Italy's ports might help revive the country's traditional role as a key link in trade between the East and West. The signed accords are wide-ranging and include co-operation between banks, between a Chinese construction company and Italian ports, and the export of Italian fruit to China. The deals also foresee co-operation in the spheres of science and technology and between media outlets, as well as the return by Italy of hundreds of Chinese cultural treasures. China's Commerce Minister Zhong Shan, left, and Italian Labor Minister Luigi Di Maio sign a memorandum of understanding at Rome's Villa Madama, Saturday, March 23, 2019. Italy signed a memorandum of understanding with China on Saturday in support of Beijing's "Belt and Road" initiative, which aims to weave a network of ports, bridges and power plants linking China with Africa, Europe and beyond. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) The signing ceremony took place at the Villa Madama, a Renaissance villa designed by Raphael, where Xi was greeted with full honours on the second day of his two-day visit to Italy. He then travelled to Sicily, where officials hope to attract more Chinese tourism. Italy's involvement in the Belt and Road program gives China a crucial inroad into Western Europe and a symbolic boost in its economic tug-of-war with Washington, where President Donald Trump is challenging China over trade and other issues. The EU, however, is worried about unfair competition from Chinese companies, which are controlled by the Chinese government and benefit from the state's financial backing. EU leaders in Brussels are preparing a strategy to counter the growing influence of China, which they describe as a "systemic rival." Chinese President Xi Jinping, background left, meet with Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte during the signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding at Rome's Villa Madama, Saturday, March 23, 2019. Italy signed a memorandum of understanding with China on Saturday in support of Beijing's "Belt and Road" initiative, which aims to weave a network of ports, bridges and power plants linking China with Africa, Europe and beyond. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) Some Italian government officials were critical of the deals, worried that Italy might be ceding national sovereignty in key strategic areas to Beijing. In a sign of opposition, Matteo Salvini, the deputy prime minister and interior minister, stayed away from the official ceremonies with the Chinese delegation. Di Maio stressed that Italy remains firmly rooted in its alliance with the United States, NATO and its European partners, but said Italy must also look out for its own economic interests. "Like someone in the United States said 'America first,' I continue to repeat: 'Italy first' in commercial relations," Di Maio said. 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. Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, sits in front of the Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte ahead of the signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding at Rome's Villa Madama, Saturday, March 23, 2019. Italy signed a memorandum of understanding with China on Saturday in support of Beijing's "Belt and Road" initiative, which aims to weave a network of ports, bridges and power plants linking China with Africa, Europe and beyond. (Giuseppe Lami/ANSA Via AP) In response to concerns that the memorandum could open the way to colonization by China, Di Maio countered it would instead help goods manufactured in Italy "to colonize the world." "That is a good colonialization," he said. The Belt and Road project has so far seen investments totalling more than a trillion dollars since its launch more than five years ago, and China says some 150 countries have signed agreements related to the project. Beijing has marketed the initiative as a way to give some of the world's neediest countries a leg up, helping them gain access to more trade and investment. But it also helps Chinese companies tap new markets for their products while helping Beijing amass greater global influence. Some governments including the U.S., Japan and India worry that Beijing is trying to build a China-centred sphere of influence that undermines their own sway, pulling developing nations into infrastructure "debt traps" that would give China ever-more control over their territories and economies. Some say the proposed improvements are too expensive for the impoverished countries. China's official position is that Belt and Road is solely an economic initiative with no political motives. Xi said last year that even as China moves closer to the centre of the world stage, it will never seek hegemony. NEW YORK - A vintage plane that went from flying passengers in the 1950s to running drugs in the 1970s visited Times Square on Saturday before its next transformation into a cocktail lounge at the former TWA terminal at Kennedy Airport. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. CEO and Managing Partner of MCR Tyler Morse, left, and Hotel Trades Council President Peter Ward pose for a photo next to a Lockheed Constellation L-1649A Starliner, known as the "Connie, is parked in New York's Times Square during a promotional event, Saturday, March 23, 2019, in New York. The vintage commercial airplane will serve as the cocktail lounge outside the TWA Hotel at JFK airport, a hotel that promises to bring back "the magic of the Jet Age." (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) NEW YORK - A vintage plane that went from flying passengers in the 1950s to running drugs in the 1970s visited Times Square on Saturday before its next transformation into a cocktail lounge at the former TWA terminal at Kennedy Airport. The fuselage of the 1958 Lockheed Constellation is spending the weekend in Times Square as part of an upcoming documentary about the redevelopment of Eero Saarinen's landmark TWA Flight Center into a hotel. The plane arrived in New York in November from Maine, where it was being restored. It was trucked Friday night from Kennedy Airport to Times Square, where the same model plane was featured in an eight-story billboard in the late 1950s. The Constellation, known as Connie, flew for TWA for three years before it was forced into retirement by the Boeing 707. It was later used as an Alaskan bush plane and then was used as a marijuana dropper by South American drug traffickers. The plane was bought last year by MCR/MORSE Development, the developers of the soon-to-open TWA Hotel. MCR CEO Tyler Morse said the vintage plane will serve as a cocktail lounge at the hotel. 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're trying to recreate the theatre of the hotel and make it a special experience," he said Saturday. The 512-room TWA Hotel is scheduled to open in May and will be the only hotel on the airport's grounds. It is intended as an homage to the era when Saarinen's gull-winged TWA Flight Center opened in 1962. The terminal closed in 2001 when TWA was acquired by American Airlines. Mayor Bill de Blasio, who joined Morse at an event to welcome the vintage plane to Times Square, said the landmark TWA terminal is "going to be a vibrant hotel and conference space, and part of our city again." ___ Associated Press journalist Julie Walker contributed to this report. As Stony Mountain Institution was preparing to release Kane Moar a 21-year-old prisoner with a violent criminal history whod served two-thirds of his sentence a red flag was raised, indicating he was set to be charged in the slaying of a fellow inmate. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. As Stony Mountain Institution was preparing to release Kane Moar a 21-year-old prisoner with a violent criminal history whod served two-thirds of his sentence a red flag was raised, indicating he was set to be charged in the slaying of a fellow inmate. However, that red flag wasnt enough to make Correctional Services Canada recommend his statutory release be denied. Instead, he was allowed to serve the rest of his sentence in the community. Within days, Moar was on the run for an alleged crime spree through Winnipegs streets. WINNIPEG POLICE SERVICE HANDOUT Kane Moar was arrested and charged with second-degree murder in the death of Ricardo Hibi. A week before Christmas 2018, 34-year-old Ricardo Hibi was stabbed to death, leaving behind a fiancee and young son. The man who wielded the knife, according to police, was Moar. Now, Hibis family and friends want answers as to why their loved ones alleged killer was released from prison in the first place. "Ricardo would still be alive today if the parole board had not let (Moar) out of prison. His six-year-old son would still have a father and his soon-to-be wife would become a wife, not a widow," said Agnieszka Piotrowski, one of Hibis closest friends. Moar's initial sentence stemmed from a June 16, 2016, incident in which he confronted a man riding a bike in Winnipeg. Moar swung a hatchet at the man, hitting him in the neck, then stole his bicycle. He was arrested a short time later. It wasn't his first run-in with the law. Moar had previously been found guilty of aggravated assault, after he repeatedly stabbed someone he thought was a rival gang member. FACEBOOK 34-year-old Ricardo Hibi was stabbed to death a week before Christmas 2018 leaving behind a fiancee and young son. While at Stony Mountain, Moar was "institutionally charged a number of times." On Aug. 16, 2018, hes alleged to have participated along with three other accused in a fatal attack on prisoner Adam Kent Monias, 25. While Moar wasnt charged for the slaying until this month, documents obtained by the Free Press reveal the Parole Board of Canada knew the charge was coming when it processed his statutory release. "Recent reports on file indicate on Aug. 24, 2018, security intelligence information was received that you were involved in the murder of an inmate. Reports note you will be charged with second-degree murder," the document reads. Statutory releases which kick in after a federal inmate has served two-thirds of their sentence are legislated. As such, they are processed not granted by the parole board. However, when there are "reasonable grounds" to believe an inmate is likely to reoffend in a way that will cause serious harm or death, among other considerations, a detention order can be issued. The CSC did not recommend a detention order in Moars case, so the PBC of processed his statutory release. STATUTORY RELEASE Click to Expand A statutory release is processed not granted by the Parole Board of Canada. The release allows federally sentenced offenders to serve the final one-third of their sentence, under supervision and conditions, in the community. However, by issuing a detention order, the parole board can keep an offender incarcerated in an institution past their statutory release date if there are reasonable grounds to believe they will: Cause serious harm or death; Commit a sexual offence involving a child; Commit a serious drug offence. Moars parole board documents make clear, in addition to his pending charge for second-degree murder, hed also been identified by officials as a "high risk" to violently reoffend and someone with "low" motivation to change their life. "Your case management team note you have been involved in crime since a young age and that there have been no breaks in your offending behaviour. Your offending has escalated over time," the report reads. Despite all of this, Moar's statutory release was processed Oct. 12, 2018 roughly two months after he was alleged to have killed a fellow inmate. One week later, he skipped out on the halfway house at which he was required to reside. A month after that, Hibi was dead. While few details have been released, Moar is alleged to have stabbed Hibi to death at a McGee Street group home the latter ran for vulnerable, at-risk youth. After experiencing a difficult childhood, Hibi had dedicated his life to helping others going through similar experiences. 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. Moar wasn't taken into custody until Jan. 7. Parole documents reveal since his arrest he's told corrections officials it was the "paranoia" he felt from the murder charge hanging over his head that fuelled his decision to go on the run and allegedly begin a crime spree that culminated in Hibis death. "He never should have been let out if they knew there were going to be charges of second-degree murder. Because of that negligence he murdered another person, an innocent human being. Whos going to be held accountable for that?" Piotrowski said. "We shouldnt be allowing people out of jail before their sentences are up when there is clear evidence theyll hurt people. I want to know from the parole board why a detention order wasnt issued. Ricardo and his family deserve a response and they deserve justice." Moars next court date is Sept. 3. ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @rk_thorpe Manitobas 12,000 civil servants wont miss their next payday at the end of the month, but there are no guarantees the government will make payroll after that. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Manitobas 12,000 civil servants wont miss their next payday at the end of the month, but there are no guarantees the government will make payroll after that. The legislative assembly failed to pass an interim supply bill before MLAs took their annual spring break leave Thursday afternoon. The government and opposition parties blamed each other for the failure. A last-ditch attempt to extend debate beyond normal legislature sitting hours failed to get the unanimous consent of the house when Independent MLA Steven Fletcher dissented. That raised questions about whether certain government bills would get paid and whether civil servants would get their cheques. However, Finance Minister Scott Fielding said in a statement Friday afternoon civil servants will be receiving their next paycheque, which is due March 29. Earlier in the day, civil service commissioner Charlene Paquin said in an email to all government employees the failure to pass the supply bill would not affect next weeks cheques. 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. The interim supply bill was required to allow the government to spend money in the new fiscal year, which begins April 1, Paquin said. MLAs return to the legislature that day. "Although the current situation is unprecedented, finding a solution in time for the new fiscal year is a top priority and the province is committed to finding one that will minimize any impact to staff," Paquin said. "Work is ongoing with the government and the legislative assembly to ensure that necessary funds are available for 2019-20." Michelle Gawronsky, president of the Manitoba Government and General Employees Union, said she spoke Friday with Fielding, expressing concern about the situation. She said the minister assured her the government would try to pass the supply bill April 1, when the legislative sitting resumes. "There are mortgages to pay, groceries to purchase hard-working government employees simply cant go without a paycheque," Gawronsky said. larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca The Manitoba government is getting ready to welcome new players to the retail marijuana game, with a series of random draws to select the operators of seven stores in seven rural communities. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The Manitoba government is getting ready to welcome new players to the retail marijuana game, with a series of random draws to select the operators of seven stores in seven rural communities. Almost 100 applicants have met the provinces requirements, following a request for pre-qualification issued last July. The draws for cannabis stores in Altona, Flin Flon, Lac du Bonnet, Niverville, the Rural Municipality of Russell-Binscarth, Swan River and Virden will take place "sometime this spring," Growth, Enterprise and Trade Minister Blaine Pedersen said Friday. The push for rural stores is part of the Progressive Conservative governments retail cannabis strategy, which aims to give 90 per cent of Manitobas population access to a legal source of marijuana within a 30-minute drive. "So when we look at a map of Manitoba, I sort of call it the holes in the province that dont have that 30-minute-drive availability," Pedersen said. "Thats really how these communities were selected." Even if an applicant wins a draw, a cannabis store licence isnt a done deal. Theyll still have to apply for the licence through the regulator, Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba, and receive the appropriate permits from local governments. To date, LGCA has issued 21 store licences. Those companies will also be eligible to participate in the upcoming rural draws. Pedersen described Manitobas market for legal cannabis as "the envy of other provinces," citing the example of neighbouring Ontario, where government-licensed, brick-and-mortar cannabis stores have yet to open more than five months after legalization. However, Manitobas supply from federally regulated producers still leaves something to be desired, he said, explaining licensed cannabis stores are only receiving about 30 per cent of the product theyd like from the wholesaler, Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Corp. MLL confirmed that figure Friday, and said its only receiving, on average, about 30 per cent of the monthly cannabis shipments it expected from its supply agreements with licensed producers. That figure varies from month to month, MLL spokeswoman Susan Harrison wrote in an emailed statement. "These product shortages are something that all provinces are experiencing, and to address it, we are continuing to add licensed suppliers to our network," Harrison wrote. Pedersen said the government would like to open Manitobas retail cannabis market completely, "but theres no sense opening stores until weve got more product available, and this is the phase-in... Well get these communities set up, and then as supply becomes available, we will open it up to full retail." The minister and MLL both said they have no data that could shed light on whether legal cannabis sales in Manitoba are making a dent in the illicit market. "Apparently there is pent-up demand on the legal side, when were only supplying 30 per cent of what stores would like to have on their shelves," Pedersen said. 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. Head shop chain the Joint is one of the companies pre-approved to take part in the draws for retail cannabis stores. Ariel Glinter, director of business development and regulatory compliance, expects it will take part in all seven draws. "Obviously, we qualified for the (draws) back in August, so its been a bit of a wait, so its nice to see that the province is taking some next steps to increase the availability and access to non-medical cannabis," Glinter said. About 20 Manitoba hoteliers have also been approved to participate in the draws for cannabis stores, said Manitoba Hotel Association president Scott Jocelyn. Since some hotels already sell a controlled substance beer theyd be "quite comfortable" adding cannabis to the mix, he said. "Hotels are looking for new opportunities," Jocelyn said. "Theyre relevant in some of those small towns. We want to make sure theyll continue to be relevant looking for additional revenue streams, and again, cannabis just seemed like a great opportunity to make sure that the hotels had a chance to put their name forward and see what happens." solomon.israel@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @sol_israel University of Winnipeg urban and inner-city students know more about poverty than many Manitobans. Some live it every day. Others have not experienced poverty, but they have been learning about its many layers, the obstacles it creates and how public policy might better respond. They are learning from scholarly content, but also from classmates who share their personal experiences. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. University of Winnipeg urban and inner-city students know more about poverty than many Manitobans. Some live it every day. Others have not experienced poverty, but they have been learning about its many layers, the obstacles it creates and how public policy might better respond. They are learning from scholarly content, but also from classmates who share their personal experiences. The department of urban and inner-city studies, located at Merchants Corner in Winnipegs North End, takes an experiential learning approach to education. So, when our class learned that the provincial government would release its new poverty reduction strategy followed by the 2019 budget, we thought it would be a good opportunity to review the strategy and assess how the budget will contribute to achieving the strategys goals. Students made several observations as they reviewed the 82-page Pathways to a Better Future strategy. They questioned the use of 2015 statistics as a baseline to measure progress if this is a forward-looking strategy, why would the government not use the most recent poverty data? Is it because there was a significant decline in 2016 it could not take credit for? It is unlikely that the current governments policies contributed to the decrease it had been in government less than a year. Using statistics that precede its tenure seems disingenuous. Related to this, we found the table comparing income assistance rates in 2014 and 2018 misleading. It shows a significant increase in income supports ranging from 16.2 per cent to 31 per cent, depending on family size. We looked at Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) dating back to 1990 and found that EIA has been relatively stagnant except for an increase in 2015, which can be attributed to the previous governments Rent Assist program. This led us to question why the government didnt include 2015 in its report given the significant effect of Rent Assist. While far from perfect, Rent Assist has made a difference for many low-income renters and is an example of a program that should be strengthened and expanded. It is especially needed in the absence of a sufficient supply of social housing, which led us to a discussion about the strategys statement on the importance of collaboration at the same time as government refuses to sign a bilateral agreement that would see millions of dollars flow to the province for much-needed affordable housing. After reviewing the strategy, students turned to the budget. We agreed that strategies are important, but the real test of a governments commitment to alleviating poverty is reflected in how revenue is raised and spent. The current government believes the best way to address poverty is to "leave more money on the kitchen table." The Progressive Conservatives campaigned on a promise to decrease the PST by one percentage point and a commitment to raise the basic personal amount (BPA) the income level at which we begin to pay taxes. Students understand that by implementing these measures, the government is making good on its promises, but they wanted to know: how much money is left on kitchen tables in low-income homes? And at what cost to government revenue and the ability to support other important initiatives? Students were surprised by what they learned when comparing the governments claims of "kitchen table savings" with their personal circumstances. For example, some students are single parents who scrape by to make ends meet. We estimated that a reasonable amount they might spend annually on PST taxable goods and services is $3,000. A one-percentage-point cut in the PST will leave $30 on their kitchen table this year a far cry from the $500 the government claims an average family will save. We also looked at the effect of the increase in the BPA. The budget papers show that those in the lowest income bracket will save $16 in 2019 and the second bracket earner will save $83. The budget doesnt go beyond that bracket, which left students wondering how much higher-income earners will save in comparison. While this information is not available to us, we know for certain that high-income earners will benefit far more from the increase in the BPA than low-income earners in greatest need. We agreed this is not equitable. Students then looked at the effect on revenue. In 2019 alone, the government will have $36.4 million less to spend on important services as a result of changes in the BPA plus the loss of an additional $325 million over 12 months as result of the one-percentage-point sales tax reduction. These losses in revenue are offset by an increase in federal transfers of $324 million money that could go a long way to fighting poverty. JOHN WOODS / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister has chosen to fulfil his promise to cut the PST by one percentage point. The measure, which takes effect July 1, was announced in the the provincial budget. Students admitted that they had not previously thought to "do the math" to assess the effects of tax cuts. They wonder if other Manitobans fully understand who benefits and at what cost to the public good. When examining expenditures, students looked at several areas of concern, but here we focus on a few: income, housing, post-secondary education and reconciliation. Aside from the Rent Assist program, the poorest Manitobans have seen an erosion in income supports. Some in our class have had first-hand experience with EIA and remind us that it is extremely difficult to live on an EIA budget and the programs punitive approach makes it near impossible to get off EIA. Safe affordable housing is the foundation of an effective poverty reduction strategy. Students shared many stories about unsafe housing, slum landlords and the challenges that result from the lack of decent housing. There is nothing in Budget 2019 to address these concerns. To our knowledge, the province has not funded the construction of a single new social housing unit since 2016 and the budget for capital borrowing for Manitoba Housing has been cut in half since 2015. The government has sold nearly 1,000 publicly owned housing units, cut investments in the maintenance of its existing stock and made social housing less affordable by increasing rents from 25 per cent of a tenants income to 30 per cent. With more than 50,000 households living in substandard housing and more than 2,000 households on the wait-list for public housing, Budget 2019 fails miserably. One thing students have in common is that they have chosen post-secondary education as their "pathway to a better future." Any small gains made from the PST cut and the BPA changes will be more than offset by increases in tuition. The University of Winnipeg receives a 0.9 per cent cut in funding again this year and full-time students will pay an additional $250 in tuition in 2019-20. Students are told that education is the key to a better future, so making a university education more difficult to attain makes no sense to them. 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. The budget describes a targeted approach to post-secondary accessibility and makes mention of a new Indigenous bursary. But students say accessing bursaries and scholarships is an onerous process. While students dont agree bursaries are the best approach, they suggest access would be improved if discounts were automatically applied when registering for classes. First Nations-funded students reminded us that the increase in tuition may not affect those already approved for funding, but fewer students will receive funding. Decreases in funding to universities and rising tuition contradicts the spirit of a poverty reduction strategy that says it aims to clear a "pathway to a better future." It is no coincidence Indigenous people are overrepresented among those living in poverty. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission clearly describes the damaging effects of colonial policies and programs, including residential schools. The Manitoba poverty reduction strategy acknowledges this as well. Yet there is no significant increase in funding to program areas that would most benefit Indigenous people. Students want to see far more in the budget to demonstrate the government is committed to its Path to Reconciliation Act. Our overall assessment? Budget 2019 will make the "pathway to a better future" more difficult to navigate for people living in poverty. The most encouraging statement we found in the documents we reviewed was made by the co-chairs of the poverty reduction committee, who said: "Reducing and preventing poverty is achievable and essential for a thriving Manitoba." Unfortunately, there is little in the budget that shows the province plans to do much about it. This article was written by Shauna MacKinnon, associate professor and department chair, University of Winnipeg urban and inner-city studies, in collaboration with students in the urban poverty and policy class. The Pallister government has every right to tell a Crown corporation what to do but it must be publicly transparent in doing so. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The Pallister government has every right to tell a Crown corporation what to do but it must be publicly transparent in doing so. Related Items Click to Expand Articles Mar 21, 2019: Provincial government clashes with MPI board over planned online services Larry Kusch And if the government directs a Crown corporation to do something that is not in the company's best interests, directors are obligated to take a stand. According to a legal opinion solicited by the board of Manitoba Public Insurance, and obtained by the Free Press, legislation passed two years ago by the Progressive Conservatives gives the government broad powers to dictate policy to Crown corporations, but it must be open about it. MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Premier Brian Pallister's Progressive Conservatives vowed not to interfere with the operations of Crown corporations when they were sworn into office in May 2016. Much in the way the Trudeau government is legally bound to be transparent if the attorney general were to order the director of public prosecutions to secure a deferred prosecution agreement with SNC-Lavalin, provincial law requires the Pallister government to make directives to a Crown corporation public in Manitoba. This legal requirement gives the MPI board of directors at least one advantage in its dispute with the Pallister government over the company's bid to deliver services, such as driver's licence and auto insurance renewals, online. MPI's online push is running into resistance from the organization representing the province's insurance brokers. And it appears that the brokers have the ear of a premier, who made his fortune in the insurance and wealth management fields. So far, there has been no ministerial directive to block MPI's online plans, a spokesman for Crown Services Minister Colleen Mayer confirmed in an email on Friday. If there had been, it would have to be made public within 30 days, according to the 2017 Crown Corporations Governance and Accountability Act. "The fundamental limitation on government control over MPI is the requirement for transparency," according to the 39-page legal opinion the corporation received from the Winnipeg law firm Thompson Dorfman Sweatman. The Free Press reported Thursday that the MPI board took the extraordinary step of soliciting the legal opinion when directors faced pushback from the Pallister government over its service delivery modernization plans. A source said the board is so concerned that there could be mass resignations from the Progressive Conservative-apppointed body if the situation is not resolved. RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Polly Craik had her term cut short as chair of Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries after she objected to government issuing policy directives directly to MLL management. The Progressive Conservatives vowed not to interfere with the operations of Crown corporations when they were sworn into office in May 2016. That same month, Pallister's first Crown Services minister, Ron Schuler, said, "The political interference in the Crowns has to stop." However, PC political appointee Polly Craik had her term cut short as chair of Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries after she objected to government issuing policy directives directly to MLL management, bypassing the board of directors. And, the current board of MPI is on a collision course with the government over informal pressure directors say they're receiving to alter policies that both management and the board are in agreement with. NDP Leader Wab Kinew says the situation is reminiscent of the pressure senior members of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's administration applied to former justice minister Jody Wilson-Rabould. "As we've seen in that federal case, just because there's nothing in writing doesn't mean there wasn't pressure applied there. You could still have a very similar situation of inappropriate pressure being applied in this example as well," Kinew said. In an appearance before the Public Utilities Board last fall, MPI president and CEO Benjamin Graham said the corporation didn't offer any transactions online. And he said that needed to change. Manitoba Public Insurance's president and CEO Benjamin Graham Graham said 80 per cent of MPI clients would prefer to go online for simple transactions, such as informing the corporation of a change in address. Seventy-five per cent would be comfortable renewing their auto-insurance policies online, while 35 per cent would like to be able to purchase a new policy this way. However, an official with the Insurance Brokers Association of Manitoba said insurance purchases are more complex than they may appear on the surface. His group is arguing that even online transactions should go through a broker. Meanwhile, according to the opinion obtained by the MPI board, there is no legal requirement that the directives and instructions from government be in the best interests of a Crown corporation. On the other hand, it is "solely the responsibility" of the board of directors to determine what is in the best interests of the corporation. 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. "Accordingly, the board of directors must proceed with great caution when implementing directives or instructions issued by government which it feels are not in the best interests of the corporation," the legal opinion says. If directors run up against this issue, they should consult with government representatives and/or obtain legal advice on the matter. If after exhausting all options the board determines that the directive from government conflicts with the board's duties to act in the corporation's best interests it "may have no alternative but to refuse to implement the decision," according to the legal opinion. In carrying out their legal duties, It may not be good enough for directors pressed to act contrary to the best interests of a Crown corporation to have their dissent recorded in the minutes of a meeting, the opinion said. "In some situations the director may have no alternative but to resign." larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca The mother struck by the same vehicle that killed her four-year-old daughter will need multiple surgeries and faces an uncertain future. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The mother struck by the same vehicle that killed her four-year-old daughter will need multiple surgeries and faces an uncertain future. Genet Bruk and daughter Galila were struck Monday at the crosswalk at Isabel Street and Alexander Avenue, on their way to Dufferin School to meet her six-year-old son. IMAGE FROM TWITTER Four-year-old Galila and her mother, Genet, were struck by a vehicle at the crosswalk at Isabel and Alexander, Monday, March 18, 2019. Galila died Tuesday night at the Health Sciences Centre. A prayer vigil was held at the crosswalk Friday evening. A GoFundMe webpage has been set up to provide financial assistance to the newcomer family. "Whether (Bruk) will be able to walk again or have a normal life, no one knows," said Aaron Mehzenta, a friend of the family who spoke at the vigil. "We have to continue to pray for her," he told the crowd of more than 150 people. PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A grieving member of the community, identified as the victim's father Razana, cries into a shawl at the vigil Friday evening. Mehzenta said Bruk doesn't seem to fully understand what has happened, while the funding page says she has "suffered tremendous lower-body injuries that will likely be life-changing." At one point during the vigil, Bruk's husband and Galila's father, Razana Barakiel, weeping into a white scarf around his neck, broke from the crowd and rushed to the crosswalk. He dropped to his knees and fell over, wailing loudly. People rushed to comfort him and led him away. A large stuffed panda bear holding a bouquet of yellow tulips has been stationed at the base of the crosswalk for days. Stuffed teddy bears and bunnies are taped to the metal pole and small toys have been placed at the base. Some people at the vigil brought more offerings. The family arrived in Winnipeg from Eritrea just two months ago. Dorota Blumczynska, executive director of the Immigration and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba, organized the vigil and has stayed close with the family. "This is an impossible tragedy to understand," she told the crowd gathered at the crosswalk. "But with all of you with us, it gives us great strength and courage." Blumczynska revealed more on her Twitter page Friday. "Within 72 hours, I saw the inside of Childrens emergency, pediatric ICU, surgical ICU, spoke with medical examiners and police investigators," Blumczynska wrote. "I held the hand of a beautiful, lifeless child, and embraced weeping family members, colleagues and friends. I refuse to accept inaction." 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. Blumczynska was referring to what she regards as the City of Winnipeg's inaction to make the crosswalk safer. It is the only route to Dufferin School for many children. IRCOM also has transitional housing in the area. IRCOM has been telling the city for years the stretch along Isabel is too dangerous, Blumczynska said on social media. There is another crosswalk within two blocks at Isabel Street and Ross Avenue. She wrote the city has rejected IRCOM's previous petitioning for a traffic signal light at the Ross site, saying the traffic count doesn't warrant it. Galila's funeral is scheduled for March 30 at St. Michael Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church. bill.redekop@freepress.mb.ca The slogans of the Arab Spring are being heard again in the Arab world. The people want the fall of the regime, chant the protesters in Sudan, where almost three months of popular demonstrations challenge the power of long-ruling dictator Omar al-Bashir. He acknowledges the parallels himself, condemning the demonstrations as an attempt to copy the so-called Arab Spring for Sudan. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion The slogans of the "Arab Spring" are being heard again in the Arab world. "The people want the fall of the regime," chant the protesters in Sudan, where almost three months of popular demonstrations challenge the power of long-ruling dictator Omar al-Bashir. He acknowledges the parallels himself, condemning the demonstrations as "an attempt to copy the so-called Arab Spring for Sudan." At the other end of the Arab world, in Algeria, the demos began only last month, when President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, in power for the last 20 years, announced that he would run for a fifth term in the forthcoming elections. He is 82 years old and so badly affected by a stroke six years ago that he can hardly walk or talk. Bouteflikas last public speech was in 2014, and the most common poster in the street protests just shows a wheelchair with a big red X over it. As Algerian writer Kamel Daoud put it, by offering a candidate "who is almost dead," the regime is showing its contempt for the young people in Algeria (where more than 30 per cent of people aged under 30 are unemployed). The real reason for putting up Bouteflika once again is that the various elements of "le pouvoir" (the power), as everybody calls the regime, could not agree on any other candidate. But it is an insult to the public and the regime is frightened by the reaction. Algerian Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia praised the demonstrators for using strictly non-violent tactics (as in the time of the Arab Spring), citing an incident where they gave roses to the security forces policing the protests. But, he pointed out, the non-violent pro-democracy demonstrations in Syria in 2011, which triggered a ghastly civil war, also "started with exchanges of roses." So, is the Arab Spring coming back so soon? Probably not. You couldnt find two Arab countries with much less in common. Algeria is a reasonably well-educated, middle-income country; Sudan is a very poor country where the literacy rate is actually falling. Sudanese are black; Algerians are white. The varieties of popular Arabic spoken in Algeria and Sudan are mutually incomprehensible. But they do have two things in common. They are both dictatorships of very long standing. The National Liberation Front has ruled Algeria since 1962, with Bouteflika as its front man for the past 20 years. Bashir came to power in a military coup 30 years ago. And both countries largely missed out on the original Arab Spring: there were scattered demonstrations, quickly appeased or crushed, but nothing more. As in the Arab Spring, the protests this time are really fuelled by falling living standards. A dictatorship that was tolerated while living standards were rising becomes intolerable when there are not enough jobs and its getting hard to put food on the table. 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. In Sudan this time, it was a cut in the subsidy on bread that set off the protests, but that was the last of many cuts over the past decade. Sudan lost three-quarters of its oil income when South Sudan became a separate country in 2011, and the regime can no longer afford to buy the population off with subsidies of various sorts. Algeria still has its oil, but has been hurt badly by the sustained fall in oil prices since 2014. This doesnt mean that Sudanese and Algerians would love their rulers if there were more money in their pockets. They have never more than tolerated them, but the cost of trying to do something about the situation seemed too high. Now it doesnt seem that high any more, at least not compared to the alternative. The protests in Sudan may actually succeed in unseating Bashir, although not necessarily the military-dominated regime he leads. The regime in Algeria has already made a key concession, with Bouteflika promising to hold a referendum on a new constitution and then call fresh elections (in which he will not run) before the end of his next five-year term. The regime is hoping that will be enough to let it stay in power, and it may be right. Algerians are deeply scarred by the terrible civil war of the 1990s, when Islamists waged a 10-year campaign of terror after their impending victory in a free election was cancelled by the military. People remain frightened of anything that could bring back that time, maybe even including too-free elections. And nobody else in the Arab world is ready to pick up the torch just yet. The Syrian and Yemeni civil wars, both triggered by the popular, initially non-violent revolutions of the Arab Spring, may finally be stumbling towards an end, but the whole tragic sequence of events is still too fresh in peoples minds for them to want to try again. Gwynne Dyers latest book is Growing Pains: The Future of Democracy (and Work). The accused mass murderer of 50 worshippers in New Zealand mosques last week issued a manifesto in which he asked himself this question: Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump? Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion The accused mass murderer of 50 worshippers in New Zealand mosques last week issued a manifesto in which he asked himself this question: "Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump?" His answer: "As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no." In other words, there was no linear connection between Trump and the New Zealand massacre, nor can he be directly blamed for the carnage. Yet U.S. President Donald Trump has become an important symbol for white nationalists and bigots in America, and for autocrats worldwide. The New Zealand tragedy is only the latest illustration. The United States, which inspired would-be democrats abroad for decades, is now led by a president who inspires anti-democratic movements. Look no further than his response to the New Zealand tragedy for the latest illustration of this dangerous trend. When asked if he viewed white nationalism as a rising global threat, Trump replied: "I dont really. I think its a small group of people..." The president studiously ignores statistics from respected U.S. groups that track extremism. According to the New York-based Anti-Defamation League, there was a 182 per cent increase in white supremacist propaganda incidents in the last year, with 1,187 cases reported, compared with 421 in 2017. At least 91 white supremacist rallies were held in 2018, up from 76 the previous year. The league also says that in the U.S. in 2018, "every single extremist killing from Pittsburgh to Parkland had a link to right-wing extremism." There were 50 such murders. Add to that, the Southern Poverty Law Center, a diligent tracker of far-right extremists, says the U.S. had more hate groups last year than at any time in the last two decades, with "a 30 per cent increase with Trumps campaign and presidency." Get the trend? Yet rather than denounce far-right bigotry after the New Zealand slaughter, Trump tweeted a storm of support for Judge Jeanine Pirro, who was briefly suspended by Fox News for anti-Muslim slurs. He retweeted kooky far-right Trumpsters who promote the crazy QAnon conspiracy theory detailing a secret plot by an alleged "deep state" against him. Just before New Zealand, he told far-right Breitbart News that he had "the support of the police, the support of the military, the support of the Bikers for Trump," to play it tough against his opponents if need be, and "then it would be very bad, very bad." His fact-free tweets about "stolen elections" hint at future incitement to violence should he lose in 2020. A further yellow light to violent extremists. Of course, we have become inured to this behaviour from a president who famously insisted some neo-Nazis at the torch-lit parade in Charlottesville, Va., were "fine people." No need to reprise his support of the "birther" lies about former president Barack Obama, or his racist comments about immigrants. But experts on extremism warn against downplaying the impact of the presidents words in egging on extremists. "It modifies what is considered permissible," says Harvards Steven Levitsky, co-author of How Democracies Die. "Trump is defining deviancy down, and things thought unimaginable are suddenly imaginable. A congressman body-slams a reporter, and this is praised by the U.S. president. That shapes opinion." Warns the leagues deputy national director, Kenneth Jacobson: "For a long time, the view was that (right-wing extremists) were a few extreme kooks. Its not clear their numbers are growing substantially, but there is the growing sense that this is their moment and they may be able to act things out." Rather than stem the tides of far-right extremism, Trump drives them higher like a bright new moon. The president has also become a lodestar for anti-democratic leaders and movements in Europe, Latin America and Asia. Weve gotten used to his fulsome praise for Russias Vladimir Putin, Chinas Xi Jinping, and North Koreas Kim Jong Un, accompanied by consistent nastiness to democratic allies. Trump is clearly far more comfortable schmoozing with a clone like Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, an open admirer of his countrys past military dictators, than with democrats such as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. 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. The damage done by Trumps autocrat envy to Americas image and influence cannot be overestimated. "We prided ourselves in the 50s and 60s as a model for democracy," Levitsky says. "If there are ugly folks in the White House, that can have the opposite effect." The anti-democratic example Trump sets worldwide is glaring. Example: his constant denigration of responsible media as "fake news" and the "real enemy of the people." That term has been adopted by autocrats to persecute press critics, from Poland to the Philippines to Moscow (where many journalists have been murdered). Just this week, Trump said he was "very proud" to hear Bolsonaro use the term "fake news." Such language has consequences. It inspires strongmen who jail or murder journalists. Think Jamal Khashoggi. So, when the New Zealand killer cites the U.S. president as a symbol for white supremacists, pay attention. This is how low the presidency has sunk under Trump. Trudy Rubin is a columnist and editorial-board member for the Philadelphia Inquirer. Google should Canadian universities ban student-professor relationships? and youll get over 17 million results, most of them headlines. Its a question that gets asked and considered, pondered, mulled and debated every time a professor is accused of sexual misconduct. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (995 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Google "should Canadian universities ban student-professor relationships?" and youll get over 17 million results, most of them headlines. Its a question that gets asked and considered, pondered, mulled and debated every time a professor is accused of sexual misconduct. Overwhelmingly, however, Canadian universities have decided that the answer to that question is no. And the University of Manitoba is one of them. The U of M introduced last week a pair of policies about how employees should disclose intimate relationships between themselves and students. The three-page "Relationships Between University Employees and Students" document states intimate relationships must be disclosed, and romantic or sexual relationships where there is a power differential i.e. staff and student are "strongly discouraged and should be avoided." But it stops short of banning student-employee relationships all together. The U of M also launched an online course this week about sexual-violence awareness. The course is not mandatory. The policies come in the wake of multiple investigations into inappropriate faculty behaviour, conducted both internally and by police, that have rocked the post-secondary institution. In December 2018, the University of Manitoba Students Union called for restrictions on student-prof relationships after former U of M music professor Steve Kirby was charged with sexual assault. 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. Harvard, Stanford and Yale all prohibit relationships between faculty and undergraduate students. "Strongly discouraged and should be avoided" isnt really a restriction, especially when the policies do not say what the repercussions would be for anyone found breaching them. So, who do these policies really protect? It doesnt seem like its the students. There is precedent for a university-wide ban: Harvard, Stanford and Yale all prohibit relationships between faculty and undergraduate students. U of M is far from the only university wary about an outright ban. Some argue a ban would impinge on the rights and privacy of university employees. Others argue that a ban infantilizes consenting adult students. Theres almost always talk of legal and ethical "grey areas," and concern that a ban steps over the line. But grey areas can lead to loopholes, especially where predation and coercion are concerned. Its worth remembering that students, especially at the undergrad level, are young and impressionable; in fact, they are paying good money to be impressed upon. Schools that allow professors to pursue relationships with students or, at least, look the other way when they do make students vulnerable to professors who abuse and exploit those power imbalances. Mandatory disclosures can help institutions manage ostensibly consensual relationships and conflicts of interest, but what happens if those relationships change or are not, in fact, all that consensual in the first place? The power a professor has isnt limited to the lecture hall. Professors also write recommendations and sit on boards and committees that let them exert influence in and outside of academia. An environment where students believe they need to sleep with a prof to be successful is not a safe one. But perhaps were asking the wrong question when it comes to considering a ban on student-professor relationships. Maybe what we should be asking is, what is the benefit to allowing professor-student relationships? With reputations, careers and, in some cases, the safety of the student body on the line, it seems theres very little. WASHINGTON - Congressional Democrats plotted strategy Saturday as they awaited the conclusions of Robert Mueller's Russia investigation, with senior lawmakers demanding full transparency and preparing for next steps if the results were favourable to President Donald Trump. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this Sept. 19, 2017, file photo, Michael Cohen, President Donald Trump's personal attorney, steps out of a cab during his arrival on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File) WASHINGTON - Congressional Democrats plotted strategy Saturday as they awaited the conclusions of Robert Mueller's Russia investigation, with senior lawmakers demanding full transparency and preparing for next steps if the results were favourable to President Donald Trump. House Democrats conferenced by phone to share what they knew about the probe and to discuss how to move forward. It was unclear when they would have more information from Attorney General William Barr, who received the report from Mueller on Friday. Barr was on pace to release his first summary on Sunday, people familiar with the process said. In a call with 120 House Democrats, Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she would reject any kind of classified briefing on the report and that he information must be provided to Congress in a way that would allow lawmakers to discuss it publicly. A person on the call described it on condition of anonymity because the session was private. Pelosi told Democrats that the American people "deserve the truth," the person said. She has said that Barr's offer to provide Congress with a summary of conclusions was "insufficient." Six committee chairmen also spoke on the call, reiterating the push for releasing the report and underlying documents. The conclusion of Mueller's probe comes as House Democrats have launched several of their own into Trump and his personal and political dealings. And no matter what Mueller concludes, they say there is much more investigating to do. "It's the end of the beginning but it's not the beginning of the end," Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, a Democratic member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said in a Saturday conference call, echoing his party's strategy moving forward. Coons also issued a warning for his fellow Democrats, many of whom have pinned astronomical political hopes on Mueller's findings: "Once we get the principal conclusions of the report, I think it's entirely possible that that will be a good day for the president and his core supporters." The U.S. Capitol is seen at sunrise, Saturday, March 23, 2019, in Washington. Special counsel Robert Mueller closed his long and contentious Russia investigation with no new charges, ending the probe that has cast a dark shadow over Donald Trump's presidency. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Democrats have said they have to see the full report from Mueller, including underlying evidence, before they can assess it. Those demands for information are setting up a potential tug of war between Congress and the Trump administration that federal judges might eventually have to referee. Six Democratic committee chairmen wrote in a letter to Barr on Friday that if Mueller has any reason to believe that Trump "has engaged in criminal or other serious misconduct," then the Justice Department should not conceal it. "The president is not above the law and the need for public faith in our democratic institutions and the rule of law must be the priority," the chairmen wrote. The Democratic leaders asked various agencies including the Justice Department, FBI, National Security Agency, State Department, Treasury Department, CIA, IRS and the White House counsel to preserve the Mueller report, any underlying evidence and all investigatory materials compiled by the special counsel. It's unclear what Mueller has found related to the president, or if any of it would be damning. In his investigation of whether Trump's campaign co-ordinated with Russia to sway the 2016 election, Mueller has already brought charges against 34 people, including six aides and advisers to the president, and three companies. Lawmakers say they need that underlying evidence including interviews, documents and material turned over to the grand jury because the Justice Department has maintained that a president cannot be indicted and also that derogatory information cannot be released about people who have not been charged. So if the investigation did find evidence incriminating Trump, they may not be able to release it, under their own guidelines. The Democrats say it could be tantamount to a coverup if the department did not let Congress and the public know what they found. Barr testified at his confirmation hearings that he wants to release as much information as he can about the inquiry. But the department's regulations require only that the attorney general report to Congress that the investigation has concluded and describe or explain any times when he or Rosenstein decided an action Mueller proposed "was so inappropriate or unwarranted" that it should not be pursued. Barr said Friday there were no such instances where Mueller was thwarted. But anything less than the full report won't be enough for Democrats. "If the AG plays any games, we will subpoena the report, ask Mr. Mueller to testify, and take it all to court if necessary," said Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-N.Y. "The people deserve to know." House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff told CNN on Friday that he's willing to subpoena Mueller and Barr, if needed, to push for disclosure. Though Trump himself has said the report should be made public, it's not clear whether the administration would fight subpoenas for testimony or block the transmission of grand jury material. If the administration decides to fight, lawmakers could ask federal courts to step in and enforce a subpoena. A court fight could, in theory, reach the Supreme Court. But few tussles between Congress and the White House get that far. They often are resolved through negotiation. 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. In both the Clinton and Obama administrations, even when talks failed and courts got involved in assessing claims of executive privilege, the White House decided not to take the fight to the high court and complied with lower court rulings against it. The Democrats, led by Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, could also formally ask Mueller to send his committee evidence that could be used in possible impeachment proceedings against Trump, as suggested by Benjamin Wittes, a senior Brookings Institution fellow and editor-in-chief of the Lawfare blog. That's the course one of Nadler's predecessors followed during Watergate, although an impeachment inquiry against President Richard Nixon had already started by that point. Grand jury material from special counsel Leon Jaworski, provided through the federal judge who presided over the Watergate trials, became the road map that the House committee used to vote for articles of impeachment. Nixon resigned before the full House acted on his impeachment. Pelosi said recently that she's not for impeaching Trump, at least for now. ___ Associated Press writer Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report. PARIS - Scattered yellow vest protesters clashed with French police firing tear gas Saturday after a peaceful march through Paris, but tougher security measures and protest bans in high-risk neighbourhoods prevented the kind of rioting that devastated the capital a week ago. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Outside view of a store vandalized and set on fire the day after riots erupted on the Champs Elysees during the 18th straight weekend of demonstrations by the yellow vests in Paris, France, Sunday, March 17, 2019. Paris cleaned up one of the world's most glamorous avenues Saturday after resurgent rioting by yellow vest protesters angry at President Emmanuel Macron stunned the nation. (AP Photo/Rafael Yaghobzadeh) PARIS - Scattered yellow vest protesters clashed with French police firing tear gas Saturday after a peaceful march through Paris, but tougher security measures and protest bans in high-risk neighbourhoods prevented the kind of rioting that devastated the capital a week ago. The 4-month-old movement drew bigger crowds Saturday than in recent weeks, despite heavy security and even though last weekend's violence dented overall support for the cause. The protesters want more help for struggling French workers and retirees and say President Emmanuel Macron favours the elite. Thousands of demonstrators marched peacefully through Paris - their 19th straight weekend of protests - ending up at the Sacre-Coeur Cathedral overlooking the city from the historic Montmartre neighbourhood. Protesters sprayed yellow flares and unfurled a neon banner from atop the cathedral's white dome. In a relaxed mood, demonstrators and tourists alike took selfies as the march wound down. Later, however, tensions erupted as small clusters of masked protesters set garbage cans on fire and threw projectiles as they moved toward Republique Plaza in eastern Paris. Helmeted riot police fired volleys of tear gas in response. A policeman stands next a car on fire 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) A police officer on the plaza suffered a heart problem, slumping to the ground before being hospitalized in what Paris police described as a "very serious" condition. Associated Press journalists at the scene saw no violence or incidents nearby when he collapsed. At least 2,000 people have been injured in protest violence since the yellow vest movement began in November, and 11 people have been killed in protest-related road accidents. Elsewhere in France on Saturday, small groups of demonstrators and police clashed in the southern French cities of Nice and Montpellier. Nice was placed under high security measures as Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to stay overnight on Sunday as part of his state visit to France. Yellow vest protesters are blocked by police in Paris, Saturday, March 23, 2019. The French government vowed to strengthen security as yellow vest protesters stage a 19th round of demonstrations, in an effort to avoid a repeat of last week's riots in Paris. (AP Photo/Michel Euler) Overall though, Saturday's protests were calmer than a week ago, when resurgent violence reminded France's government that they've failed to quell yellow vest anger. Luxury shops were looted and ransacked last weekend around the Champs-Elysees Avenue in Paris and some were set on fire by protesters. This week, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner estimated that 40,500 people took part in protests around France, up from 32,300 a week ago. This week's protests were more spread out, with just 5,000 estimated in Paris compared to 10,000 last Saturday. Some 233 people were arrested, including people trying to come to Paris to protest with baseball bats, slingshots and other potential weapons, Castaner said. Protesters take part in a rally in Paris, Saturday, March 23, 2019. Yellow vest demonstrators gathered in Paris and other French cities for a 19th round of demonstrations as authorities issued bans on protests in certain areas and enhanced security measures in an effort to avoid a repeat of last week's riots in the capital. (AP Photo/Michel Euler) French authorities banned protests from the Champs-Elysees Avenue in Paris and the central neighbourhoods of several other cities including Bordeaux, Toulouse, Marseille and Nice in the south, and Rouen in western France. The Champs-Elysees was almost empty Saturday except for a huge police presence. Fear of more violence certainly kept tourists away, and police shut down the Champs-Elysees subway stations as a precaution. The new Paris police chief, Didier Lallement, who took charge this week following the destruction wrought by last week's protests, said specific police units were created to react faster to any violence. Teargas is used to disperse demonstrators during minor clashes with police in Paris, Saturday, March 23, 2019. The French government vowed to strengthen security as yellow vest protesters stage a 19th round of demonstrations, in an effort to avoid a repeat of last week's riots in Paris. (AP Photo/Kamil Zihnioglu) About 6,000 police officers were deployed in the capital Saturday and two drones helped monitor the demonstrations. French authorities also deployed soldiers to protect sensitive sites, allowing police to focus on maintaining order. That decision prompted criticism from opposition leaders and some protesters. "Since when do soldiers face a population? We are here in France. You would say that we are here in (North) Korea or in China. I never saw something like this," said Christelle Camus, a protester from a southern suburb of Paris. A police officer is taken away on a stretcher after falling ill while policing a demonstration in Paris, Saturday, March 23, 2019. Paris police say the officer suffered a heart incident during yellow vest protests and is in "very serious" condition. The Paris police headquarters said Saturday that the policeman was hospitalized and that the police chief is following the situation closely. (AP Photo/Kamil Zihnioglu) Polls suggest last week's violence dampened public support for the yellow vests - but that a majority of French people still agree with the protesters' anger over France's tax system and Macron's leadership. Saturday's marchers held signs demanding more say for citizens in public policy. "We come to protest in a calm manner. We have the right to express ourselves, to say that we want to live (decently)," said Celine Dutry, who came to Paris to protest from the northern city of Amiens - Macron's hometown. "We are not jealous of the rich." 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. The protests started in November to oppose fuel tax hikes but have expanded into a broader rejection of Macron's economic policies, which protesters say favour businesses and the wealthy over ordinary French workers. Macron countered by dropping the fuel tax hike and holding months of discussions with the public on France's stagnant wages, high taxes and high unemployment. The yellow vest movement was named after the fluorescent garments that French motorists must carry in their vehicles for emergencies. ___ Milos Krivokapic and Chris den Hond in Paris contributed to this report. ___ This story has been corrected to show that an estimated 32,300 people took in last weekend's protests nationwide. PITTSBURGH - The father of a slain black teenager pleaded for peace Saturday after the acquittal of a white police officer triggered an apparent retaliatory shooting at the defence attorney's office and touched off protests in the streets of Pittsburgh. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Supporters of Antwon Rose II, gather outside the Allegheny County Courthouse after hearing the verdict of not guilty on all charges for Michael Rosfeld, a former police officer in East Pittsburgh, Pa., Friday, March 22, 2019. Rosfeld was charged with homicide in the fatal shooting of Antwon Rose II as he fled during a traffic stop on June 19, 2018. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) PITTSBURGH - The father of a slain black teenager pleaded for peace Saturday after the acquittal of a white police officer triggered an apparent retaliatory shooting at the defence attorney's office and touched off protests in the streets of Pittsburgh. Police put officers on 12-hour shifts until further notice. The verdict late Friday in the deadly shooting of 17-year-old Antwon Rose II angered his family and civic leaders and prompted hundreds of people to gather Saturday afternoon at an intersection called Freedom Corner in the Hill District neighbourhood, the historic centre of black cultural life in Pittsburgh. One man held a sign with the names of black men killed by police around the U.S. "It's very painful to see what happened, to sit there and deal with it," Rose's father, Antwon Rose Sr., told the crowd. "I just don't want it to happen to our city no more." Christian Carter, of Pittsburgh's East Liberty neighborhood, left, is consoled by an unidentified woman after they learned a not guilty verdict in the homicide trial of former East Pittsburgh police Officer Michael Rosfeld, Friday, March 22, 2019, at the Allegheny County Courthouse in downtown Pittsburgh, Pa. A jury acquitted Rosfeld, a former police officer Friday in the fatal shooting of Antwon Rose II, an unarmed teenager as he was fleeing a high-stakes traffic stop outside Pittsburgh, a confrontation that was captured on video and led to weeks of unrest. (Michael M. Santiago/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette via AP) Afterward, he told reporters: "I want peace, period, all the way around. ... Just because there was violence doesn't mean that we counter that with violence." The mostly white crowd then marched through downtown Pittsburgh and other city neighbourhoods, periodically blocking streets as they chanted, "Who did this? Police did this!" The protest soon moved onto the University of Pittsburgh campus. Police reported no immediate arrests or injuries. Early Saturday, five to eight shots were fired into the building where the officer's attorney, Patrick Thomassey, works, police in nearby Monroeville said. No one was hurt. Police said they had been staking out the place as a precaution, and the gunfire erupted after they left to answer another call around midnight. Former East Pittsburgh police Officer Michael Rosfeld had been charged with homicide for shooting Rose as the unarmed teenager ran away from a traffic stop in June. Rosfeld testified that he thought Rose or another suspect had a gun pointed at him and that he fired to protect himself and the community. "I hope that man never sleeps at night," Rose's mother, Michelle Kenney, said of Rosfeld after the verdict, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "I hope he gets as much sleep as I do, which is none." A bullet hole can be seen at the law office of Patrick Thomassey, attorney who represented acquitted former East Pittsburgh police Officer Michael Rosfeld, on Saturday, March 23, 2019 in Pittsburgh. Police around Pittsburgh said there were otherwise no reports of arrests or property damage following the verdict that left Antwon Rose II's family distraught but not surprised at the jury's decision, they said.(Peter Diana/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette via AP) Rose's family is now pressing ahead with a federal civil rights lawsuit filed against Rosfeld and East Pittsburgh, a small municipality about 10 miles (16 kilometres) from downtown Pittsburgh, where the trial was held. Attorney S. Lee Merritt, who represents Rose's mother in the litigation, said the verdict was based on Pennsylvania law regarding the use of force that he considers unconstitutional. "The protest is an appropriate response to injustice," Merritt said, adding that he believes the state law is why jurors reached their verdict of acquittal. He also called the shots at Rosfeld's attorney's office "an act of cowardice and barbarism that does nothing but perpetuate the stereotypes often used to justify police brutality." Thomassey told reporters after the verdict that Rosfeld is "a good man, he is." The defence attorney said he hopes the city remains calm and "everybody takes a deep breath and gets on with their lives." Marchers stop and sit with their hands up in an intersection in the streets Saturday, March 23, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pa. The group was calling for justice the day after former East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld was acquitted in the homicide trial where he was charged with shooting and killing 17-year-old Antwon Rose II in the summer of 2018 near Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic) The leaders of two major Pittsburgh charities issued a statement expressing "shock and outrage" over the verdict. "Pittsburgh now sadly joins a disturbing and ever-growing catalogue of cases across the United States where law enforcement or security officials have walked free after the killings of young black men under questionable circumstances," wrote Maxwell King, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Foundation, and Grant Oliphant, president of the Heinz Endowments. "We have asked the question, 'Would Antwon Rose be alive today if he had been white?' We, his family and African American community leaders believe that more than likely he would be." Pittsburgh was in the spotlight less than five months ago, when a gunman ranting about Jews killed 11 people at a synagogue. Rose was riding in an unlicensed taxi that had been involved in a drive-by shooting minutes earlier when Rosfeld pulled the car over and shot the teenager in the back, arm and side of the face. Neither Rose nor another teen in the taxi was holding a weapon when the officer opened fire, though two guns were later found in the vehicle. Rosfeld had worked for the East Pittsburgh Police Department for only a few weeks and was sworn in just hours before the shooting. The 12-person jury including three black members saw video of the fatal confrontation. The jury took less than four hours to reach a verdict. Prosecutor Jonathan Fodi argued that the video showed there was no threat to the officer. But a defence expert testified Rosfeld was within his rights to use deadly force to stop suspects he thought had been involved in a shooting. The prosecution did not call its own use-of-force expert, a decision the American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania questioned. But Mike Manko, a spokesman for the district attorney's office, said prosecutors were confident they had what they needed to make their case. 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. Shortly before the traffic stop, another person in the taxi, Zaijuan Hester, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street, hitting one in the abdomen. Hester, 18, pleaded guilty last week to aggravated assault and firearms violations. He said he, not Rose, did the shooting. Prosecutors had charged Rosfeld with an open count of homicide, meaning the jury had the option of convicting him of murder or manslaughter. ___ Associated Press journalists Michael Rubinkam in northeastern Pennsylvania, Ramesh Santanam in Pittsburgh and Keith Srakocic in Pittsburgh contributed to this story. ___ This story has been corrected to show that shots were fired into the lawyer's building early Saturday, not early Friday. LONDON - Anti-Brexit protesters flooded into central London by the hundreds of thousands on Saturday, demanding that Britain's Conservative-led government hold a new referendum on whether Britain should leave the European Union. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 23/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. European Council President Donald Tusk, right, and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker participate in a media conference at the conclusion of an EU summit in Brussels, Friday, March 22, 2019. European Union leaders gathered again Friday after deciding that the political crisis in Britain over Brexit poses too great a threat and that action is needed to protect the smooth running of the world's biggest trading bloc. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco) LONDON - Anti-Brexit protesters flooded into central London by the hundreds of thousands on Saturday, demanding that Britain's Conservative-led government hold a new referendum on whether Britain should leave the European Union. The "People's Vote March" snaked from Park Lane and other locations to converge on the U.K. Parliament, where the fate of Brexit will be decided in the coming weeks. Marchers carried European Union flags and signs praising the longstanding ties between Britain and continental Europe. The protest drew people from across Britain who are determined to force Prime Minister Theresa May's government to alter its march toward Brexit. May also is coming under rising pressure from her own Conservative Party to either step down or set a date for her resignation as her political support continues to wilt. The coming week is seen as crucial as political rivals jockey for position to succeed her. Conservative Party legislator George Freeman tweeted that a new leader is needed. "I'm afraid it's all over for the PM. She's done her best. But across the country you can see the anger. Everyone feels betrayed. Government's gridlocked. Trust in democracy collapsing. This can't go on. We need a new PM who can reach out & build some sort of coalition for a Plan B," he tweeted. Demonstrators carry posters and flags during a Peoples Vote anti-Brexit march in London, Saturday, March 23, 2019. The march, organized by the People's Vote campaign is calling for a final vote on any proposed Brexit deal. This week the EU has granted Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May a delay to the Brexit process. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland) Liberal Democrat leader Vince Cable, invited to help lead the march in favour of a second referendum, called the crowd gathered in central London impressive and unified. "There is a huge turnout of people here from all walks of life, of all ages and from all over the country," he tweeted. "We are a Remain country now with 60 per cent wanting to stop the Brexit mess." Police did not provide a crowd estimate. Independent legislator Chuka Umunna and others supporting a second Brexit referendum estimated the crowd at 1 million. More than 4 million people endorsed an electronic petition this week in favour of revoking Article 50, the act that formally triggered the Brexit process. The march comes as May, who opposes a second referendum on Britain's EU membership, is easing away from plans to hold a third vote on her troubled Brexit withdrawal plan, which has been strongly rejected twice by Parliament. In a letter to lawmakers on Friday night, May said she might not seek passage of her Brexit withdrawal plan in Parliament next week. The embattled leader said she would only bring her EU divorce plan back to Parliament if there seems to be enough backing for it to pass. "If it appears that there is not sufficient support to bring the deal back next week, or the House rejects it again, we can ask for another extension before 12 April, but that will involve holding European Parliament elections," she said. Demonstrators pull a cart with a doll resembling British Prime Minister Theresa May during a Peoples Vote anti-Brexit march in London, Saturday, March 23, 2019. The march, organized by the People's Vote campaign is calling for a final vote on any proposed Brexit deal. This week the EU has granted Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May a delay to the Brexit process. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth) May's changing stance reflects the plan's dismal chances in the House of Commons after two prior defeats. She also says she would need the approval of House Speaker John Bercow to bring the plan back for a third time. Bercow has said a third vote would violate parliamentary rules against repeatedly voting on the same thing unless May's Brexit divorce plan is altered. Almost three years after Britons voted to walk away from the EU, the bloc's leaders this week seized control of the Brexit timetable from May to avert a chaotic departure on March 29 that would be disruptive for the world's biggest trading bloc and deeply damaging for Britain. EU leaders at a summit in Brussels set two deadlines for Britain to leave the bloc of nearly half a billion people or to take an entirely new path in considering its EU future. They agreed to extend the Brexit date until May 22, on the eve of the EU Parliament elections, if May can persuade the British Parliament to endorse her Brexit divorce deal. Failing that, they gave May until April 12 to choose between leaving the bloc without a divorce deal or deciding on a radically new path, such as revoking Britain's decision to leave, holding a new referendum on Brexit or finding a cross-party consensus for a very different kind of Brexit. Despite May's letter to lawmakers, it was not clear what path her minority government would take this week. The anti-Brexit marchers on Saturday included 63-year-old Edmund Sides, who spent the last three weeks walking from Wales to London in order to take part. Sides, a geologist, said he wanted to be able to speak to people along the way, encouraging families that have been split between Leave and Remain to mend their fences and talk. "The whole country isn't doing enough of that," he said. 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 is worried about the vicious tone that Brexit arguments have started to take and worries about national cohesion. "People fear the atmosphere is very dangerous in this country," Sides said. ___ Danica Kirka and Jill Lawless in London contributed to this report. ___ Follow AP's full coverage of Brexit at: https://www.apnews.com/Brexit BAGHOUZ, Syria - U.S.-backed forces declared military victory over the Islamic State group in Syria on Saturday after liberating the last pocket of territory held by the militants, marking the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 22/3/2019 (994 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Smoke rises from a strike on Baghouz, Syria, on the Islamic State group's last piece of territory on Friday, March 22, 2019. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo) BAGHOUZ, Syria - U.S.-backed forces declared military victory over the Islamic State group in Syria on Saturday after liberating the last pocket of territory held by the militants, marking the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. The nearly five-year war that has devastated cities and towns across north Syria and Iraq ended in Baghouz, a minor border village where the cornered militants made their last stand, under a grueling siege for weeks. On Saturday, the Syrian Democratic Forces raised their bright yellow banner from a shell-pocked house where the militants once flew their notorious black flag. Below it stretched a field shattered by the battle, pitted by trenches and bomb craters and littered with scorched tents, twisted wreckage of burned out vehicles, unspent explosives and few remaining corpses. "Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved," tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF, referring to IS by its Arabic acronym. The fall of Baghouz brings to a close a nearly 5-year global campaign against the Islamic State group that raged in two countries, spanned two U.S. presidencies and saw a U.S.-led coalition unleash more than 100,000 strikes. The campaign has left a trail of destruction in cities in Iraq and Syria, likely killed tens of thousands and drove hundreds of thousands from their homes. FILE - In this July 11, 2017, file photo, airstrikes target Islamic State positions on the edge of the Old City a day after Iraq's prime minister declared "total victory" in Mosul, Iraq. (AP Photo/Felipe Dana, File) The campaign put an end to the militants' proto-state, which at its height four years ago was the size of Britain and home to some 8 million people. But the extremist group still maintains a scattered presence and sleeper cells across Syria and Iraq. It's not known whether the group's leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is still alive or where he might be hiding. IS affiliates in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan and other countries continue to pose a threat, and the group's ideology has inspired so-called lone-wolf attacks that had little if any connection to its leadership. The "caliphate's" end also marks a new phase in Syria's civil war, now in its ninth year. The country is carved up, with the Iranian- and Russian-backed government of President Bashar Assad controlling the west, centre and south, the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led forces holding the north and east, and Turkish allies controlling a pocket in the north. The fear now is of new conflict among those players. At a ceremony held later Saturday at the nearby al-Omar oil field base, a senior U.S. diplomat, William Roebuck, said the territorial defeat of the Islamic State group is a "critical milestone" that delivers a crushing and strategic blow to the extremist group. But he stressed it remains a significant threat. "We still have much work to do to achieve an enduring defeat of IS," he said. The commander in chief of the SDF, Gen. Mazloum Abdi, appealed for continued assistance to his group until the full eradication of the extremist group. He spoke at the ceremony during which fighters marched to a military band. An Islamic State militant flag lies in a tent encampment after U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters took control of Baghouz, Syria on Saturday, March 23, 2019. The elimination of the last Islamic State stronghold in Baghouz brings to a close a grueling final battle that stretched across several weeks and saw thousands of people flee the territory and surrender in desperation, and hundreds killed. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo) The victory declaration sets the stage for President Donald Trump to begin withdrawing most of the 2,000 U.S. troops stationed in northern Syria, as he abruptly announced in December that he would do. Trump, however, later agreed to leave a small peacekeeping force of 200 soldiers in Syria to ensure Turkey will not get into a conflict with the SDF. Turkey views Kurdish members of the SDF as terrorists. The Kurds fear being abandoned by the Americans. They are squeezed between a belligerent Turkey from the north, which regards them as a national threat and Syrian President Bashar Assad's forces from the south. Saturday's announcement came a day after Trump declared that Islamic State militants no longer control any territory in Syria, a victory he had been teasing for days. Associated Press journalists in Baghouz on Saturday, however, reported hearing mortars and gunfire directed toward a cliff overlooking the village, where U.S.-led coalition airstrikes were carried out a day earlier. SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel said Friday there were IS fighters hiding in caves near Baghouz and that clearing operations were still underway. The site of IS's last stand was centred on a tent encampment in Baghouz where, unknown to the besieging SDF forces, thousands of civilians were holed up. During the weeks-long siege, an estimate 30,000 men, women and children were evacuated from the pocket, most of them IS family members, a mix of Syrians, Iraqis and foreigners. They were exhausted, hungry, many of them wounded and traumatized by the loss of relatives, but some remained die-hard supporters of the "caliphate." On Saturday, journalists were taken to the encampment a wasteland of wrecked vehicles, torn tents and scorched trees. A few bodies could be seen and a faint smell of rotting corpses hung in the air. Scattered across the dirt amid empty foxholes and trenches were personal belongings, blankets, generators, oil barrels, water tanks and satellite dishes. Cars and motorcycles were turned to rusted, twisted heaps of metal. There were unused rockets, mortars and grenades, as well as a pile of suicide vests. Ciya Kobani, an SDF commander, announced the end of the operation from the roof of the building with the SDF flag: "We have been victorious against Daesh," he declared. At its height, the Islamic State group ruled a third of both Syria and Iraq, holding millions hostage to its harsh and violent interpretation of Islamic law. The group carried out massacres and documented them with slickly produced videos circulated online. It beheaded foreign journalists and aid workers and burned alive a captured Jordanian pilot. During a rampage through Iraq's Sinjar region in 2014, it captured thousands of women and girls from the Yazidi religious minority and forced them into sexual slavery. Many remain missing to this day. The group also used its caliphate as a launchpad for attacks around the globe, including the assaults in Paris in 2015 that killed more than 130 people. 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. French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted that "a major danger to our country is now eliminated, yet the threat remains and the fight against terrorist groups must continue." France has been a member of the coalition fighting the IS since 2014. While it imposed its unforgiving interpretation of Islamic law through public beheadings and crucifixions, the group also carried out the mundane duties of governance in its territories, including regulating prices at markets and repairing infrastructure. Cornered in Baghouz, the group fought fiercely and desperately to hang on to the last shred of territory it controlled, using thousands of civilians, including women and children, as human shields. In the final weeks, they streamed out of Baghouz, bedraggled, angry and hungry, overwhelming Kurdish-run camps in northern Syria where they are being held. Aid organizations say more than 100 people have died in the journey from Baghouz to the al-Hol camp in Hassakeh province, or soon after arriving. ___ Associated Press writer Zeina Karam in Beirut contributed to this report. Politburo member and Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Vo Van Thuong (R) and his Singaporean guest Teo Chee Hean (Photo: VNA) Thuong, who is also head of the Party Central Committees Commission for Popularization and Education, spoke highly of the Singaporean guests contribution to promoting the Vietnam-Singapore strategic partnership. He expressed his hope that Teos visit will help tighten the friendship and mutual trust between the two states. Hailing the effective cooperation between the two countries, Thuong suggested further collaboration in the fields of education and training, people-to-people exchange, high-quality human resources development and science development, among others. Teo, for his part, highlighted that as Vietnam and Singapore share remarkable similarities in culture and society, they can share experience during the development and integration process. He said that both sides should maintain cooperation in the training of young officials./. Stantec Inc. provides professional consulting services in the area of infrastructure and facilities in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company provides consulting services in engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, surveying, environmental sciences, project management, and project economics. It also offers water, transportation, and public works; transportation planning and traffic engineering; and resource assessment, mine development, reclamation, hydrology, and geotechnical and infrastructure engineering services, as well as urban planning, traffic assessments and optimization, environmental impact assessments, and public consultation services. In addition, the company provides structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and hydraulics engineering services. 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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 BlackRock: Acero Cooperatief U.A., Acero Holdings I B.V., Amethyst Merger Sub LLC, AnalytX Hosting LLC, AnalytX LLC, AnalytX Software LLC, Aperio, Aperio, Aquila Heywood, Asia-Pacific Private Credit Opportunities Fund I (GenPar) Ltd., BAA Holdings LLC, BFM Holdco LLC, BLK (Gallatin) Holdings LLC, BLK SMI LLC, BR Acquisition Mexico S.A. de C.V., BR Jersey International Holdings L.P., Beijing eFront Software Company Limited, BlackRock (Barbados) Finco 1 SRL, BlackRock (Channel Islands) Limited, BlackRock (Luxembourg) S.A., BlackRock (Netherlands) B.V., BlackRock (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., BlackRock (Singapore) Holdco II Pte. Ltd., BlackRock (Singapore) Holdco Pte. Limited, BlackRock (Singapore) Limited, BlackRock AP Investment Holdco LLC, BlackRock Advisors (UK) Limited, BlackRock Advisors LLC, BlackRock Advisors Singapore Pte. Limited, BlackRock Alternative Advisors GP Holdings LLC, BlackRock Alternatives Management LLC, BlackRock Argentina Asesorias Ltda., BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited, BlackRock Asset Management Deutschland AG, BlackRock Asset Management International Inc., BlackRock Asset Management Investor Services Limited, BlackRock Asset Management Ireland Limited, BlackRock Asset Management North Asia Limited, BlackRock Asset Management Schweiz AG, BlackRock Asset Management UK Limited, BlackRock Australia Holdco Pty. Ltd., BlackRock Brasil Gestora de Investimentos Ltda., BlackRock Cal 1 Investor LLC, BlackRock Canada Holdings LP, BlackRock Canada Holdings ULC, BlackRock Capital Holdings Inc., BlackRock Capital Investment Advisors LLC, BlackRock Capital Management Inc., BlackRock Cayco Limited, BlackRock Cayman 1 LP, BlackRock Cayman Capital Holdings Limited, BlackRock Cayman Finco 2 Limited, BlackRock Cayman Finco 3 Limited, BlackRock Cayman Finco Limited, BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited, BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited, BlackRock Cayman Z Limited, BlackRock Channel Islands Holdco Limited, BlackRock Chile Asesorias Limitada, BlackRock Colombia Holdco LLC, BlackRock Colombia Infraestructura S.A.S., BlackRock Colombia SAS, BlackRock Company Secretarial Services (UK) Limited, BlackRock Corporation US Inc., BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc., BlackRock Enterprise Management Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., BlackRock Europe Development Management Limited, BlackRock Execution Services, BlackRock Finance Europe Limited, BlackRock Financial Management Inc., BlackRock Finco LLC, BlackRock Finco UK Ltd., BlackRock First Partner Limited, BlackRock France SAS, BlackRock Fund Advisors, BlackRock Fund Management Company S.A., BlackRock Fund Managers Limited, BlackRock Funding International Ltd., BlackRock Funds Services Group LLC, BlackRock Germany GmBH, BlackRock Group Limited, BlackRock HK Holdco Limited, BlackRock Holdco 2 Inc., BlackRock Holdco 3 LLC, BlackRock Holdco 4 LLC, BlackRock Holdco 5 LLC, BlackRock Holdco 6 LLC, BlackRock Hungary Kft, BlackRock Index Services LLC, BlackRock Infrastructure Management I LLC, BlackRock Institutional Services Inc., BlackRock Institutional Trust Company National Association, BlackRock International Holdings Inc., BlackRock International Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (Dublin) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (Korea) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., BlackRock Investment Management (Taiwan) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management Ireland Holdings Limited, BlackRock Investment Management LLC, BlackRock Investments LLC, BlackRock Japan Co. Ltd., BlackRock Japan Holdings GK, BlackRock Jersey Finco 2 Limited, BlackRock Latin America Holdco LLC, BlackRock Latin American Holdings B.V., BlackRock Life Limited, BlackRock Lux Finco S.a r.l., BlackRock Luxembourg Holdco S.a r.l., BlackRock Mexican Holdco B.V., BlackRock Mexico Infraestructura I S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Infraestructura II S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Infraestructura III S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Manager II S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Manager III S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Manager S de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Operadora S.A. de C.V. Sociedad Operadora de Fondos de Inversion, BlackRock Mortgage Ventures LLC, BlackRock Niagara LLC, BlackRock Operations (Luxembourg) S.a r.l., BlackRock Overseas Investment Fund Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., BlackRock PC Holdings LLC, BlackRock Pensions Limited, BlackRock Peru Asesorias S.A., BlackRock Property Consulting (Beijing) Co. Ltd., BlackRock Property France S.a.r.l., BlackRock Property Lux S.a.r.l., BlackRock Property Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., BlackRock Realty Advisors Inc., BlackRock Saudi Arabia, BlackRock Scale Holdings LLC, BlackRock Services India Private Limited, BlackRock Singapore III Pte. Ltd., BlackRock Slovakia s.r.o., BlackRock Strategic Investors GP LLC, BlackRock Strategic Investors LP, BlackRock Trident Holding Company Limited, BlackRock UK (Alpha) Limited, BlackRock UK (Beta) Limited, BlackRock UK (Delta) LP, BlackRock UK (Gamma) Limited, BlackRock UK (Sigma) Limited, BlackRock UK 2 LLP, BlackRock UK 3 LLP, BlackRock UK 4 LLP, BlackRock UK A LLP, BlackRock UK Holdco 2 Limited, BlackRock UK Holdco Limited, Blackhawk Investment Holding LLC, CIE Automotive, Cachematrix Holdings, Cachematrix Holdings LLC, Cachematrix Integrations Private Limited, Cachematrix Software Solutions LLC, Cachematrix UK Limited, FutureAdvisor Inc., Glass Mountain Pipeline, Global Energy & Power Infrastructure Advisors LLC, Global Energy & Power Infrastructure II Advisors LLC, Grosvenor Alternate Partner Limited, Grosvenor Ventures Limited, HLX Financial Holdings LLC, MGPA (Bermuda) Limited, MGPA (Exec) Limited, MGPA Limited, Mercury Carry Company Ltd., Mercury Private Equity MUST 3 (Jersey) Limited, Object Capital Technology Inc., Phoenix Acquisition B.V., Phoenix Acquisitions Holdings LLC, Portfolio Administration & Management Ltd., Prestadora de Servicios Integrales BlackRock Mexico S.A. de C.V., SVOF/MM LLC, St. Albans House Nominees (Jersey) Ltd., State Street Research & Management, Tennenbaum Capital Partners LLC, Tennenbaum Capital Partners LLC, Tlali Acero S.A. de C.V. SOFOM ENR, Trident Merger LLC, eFront, eFront, eFront (Jersey) Limited, eFront DMLT Holdings LLC, eFront DMLT Holdings S.R.L, eFront DR S.R.L, eFront Do Brasil Solucoes Informaticas Para Sistemas Financeiros Ltda., eFront FZ-LLC, eFront Financial Solutions Inc., eFront GmbH, eFront Holding II SAS, eFront Holdings SAS, eFront Hong Kong Limited, eFront II SAS, eFront Kabushiki Kaisha, eFront Ltd, eFront SAS, eFront Singapore Pte. Ltd, eFront Software Luxembourg S.a r.l., eFront Solutions Financeieres Inc., eFront d.o.o. Beograd, iShares (DE) I Investmentaktiengesellschaft mit Teilgesellschaftsvermogen, and iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC. The North West Company Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the retail of food and everyday products and services to rural communities and urban neighborhood markets in Canada, Alaska, the South Pacific, and the Caribbean. The company's Canadian operations comprise 118 Northern stores, which offers food, financial services, and general merchandise; 5 NorthMart stores that provides fresh foods, apparel, and health products and services; 25 Quickstop convenience stores that provides ready-to-eat foods, and fuel and related services; 5 Giant Tiger junior discount stores, which offers family fashion, household products, and food; 2 Valu Lots discount center and direct-to-customer food distribution outlet; 2 Pharmacy and Convenience stores; 1 Solo Market store for rural market; and 1 North West Company motorsports dealership offering sales, service, parts and accessories for Ski-doo, Honda, Can-am and other premier brands. The Canadian operations also provides contract tele-pharmacist services to rural hospitals and health centers; water and air-based transportation services; and produce and fresh meats to independent grocery stores. Its International operations include 27 Alaska Commercial Company stores that provides food and general merchandise to remote and rural regions; 12 Cost-U-Less mid-size warehouse stores, which offers discount food and general merchandise; 5 Quickstop convenience stores; 8 Riteway food markets; and 1 Cash and Carry store. The North West Company Inc. was founded in 1668 and is headquartered in Winnipeg, Canada. Read More Bristow Group Inc. provides industrial aviation services to the offshore energy companies in Europe Caspian, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific. The company offers helicopter charter services to transport personnel between onshore bases and offshore production platforms, drilling rigs, and other installations, as well as to transport time-sensitive equipment to these offshore locations. It also provides search and rescue services for the oil and gas industry, and governmental agencies; and aircraft support services. The company was formerly known as Offshore Logistics Inc. and changed its name to Bristow Group Inc. in February 2006. Bristow Group Inc. was founded in 1955 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas. Read More CMC Markets plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides online retail financial services to retail, professional, stockbroking, and institutional clients in Australia, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company provides its clients with the ability to trade contracts for difference and financial spread betting on a range of underlying shares, indices, foreign currencies, commodities, and treasuries through its trading platform. It also offers Australian clients the opportunity to trade Australian and selected international instruments, including shares, options, managed funds, warrants, and exchange traded funds. In addition, the company provides its clients a range of education opportunities through weekly and monthly webinars and seminars, as well as Trader Development programme, which provides a range of in-platform, on-demand education, and tailored market commentary. CMC Markets plc was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft: 87 Leonard Development LLC, ABFS I Incorporated, ABS MB Ltd., Acacia (Luxembourg) S.a r.l., Accounting Solutions Holding Company Inc, Alex. Brown Financial Services Incorporated, Alex. Brown Investments Incorporated, Alfred Herrhausen Gesellschaft mbH, Amber Investments S.a r.l., Ambidexter GmbH, Ambidexter GmbH i.L., Argent Incorporated, BHW - Gesellschaft fur Wohnungswirtschaft mbH, BHW Bausparkasse Aktiengesellschaft, BHW Holding GmbH, BHW Kreditservice GmbH, BNA Nominees Pty Limited, BT Globenet Nominees Limited, BTAS Cayman GP, BTD Nominees Pty Limited, Baincor Nominees Pty Limited, Bainpro Nominees Pty Ltd, Baldur Mortgages Limited, Bankers Trust Investments Limited, Barkly Investments Ltd., Bayan Delinquent Loan Recovery 1 (SPV-AMC) Inc, Bayan Delinquent Loan Recovery 1 (SPV-AMC) Inc., Berkshire Mortgage Finance, Betriebs-Center fur Banken AG, Biomass Holdings S.a r.l., Birch (Luxembourg) S.a r.l., Blue Cork Inc, Blue Cork Inc., Borfield Sociedad Anonima, Breaking Wave DB Limited, Cape Acquisition Corp., CapeSuccess Inc., CapeSuccess LLC, Cardales UK Limited, Cardea Real Estate S.r.l., Career Blazers LLC, Career Blazers Management Company Inc, Career Blazers Management Company Inc., Career Blazers Personnel Services Inc, Career Blazers Personnel Services Inc., Career Blazers Personnel Services of Washington D.C. Inc. Washington D.C., Caribbean Resort Holdings Inc, Caribbean Resort Holdings Inc., Carpathian Investments Designated Activity Company, Cathay Advisory (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Cathay Advisory (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Cathay Asset Management Company Limited, Cathay Capital Company (No 2) Limited, Cedar (Luxembourg) S.a r.l., Centennial River 2 Inc., Centennial River Corporation, Chapel Funding, Charlton (Delaware) Inc, China Recovery Fund LLC, China Recovery Fund LLC, Cinda - DB NPL Securitization Trust 2003-1, City Leasing (Thameside) Limited, City Leasing Limited, Consumo S.p.A., Consumo Srl in Liquidazione, Cyrus J. Lawrence Capital Holdings Inc., Cyrus J. Lawrence Capital Holdings Inc., D B Investments (GB) Limited, D&M Turnaround Partners Godo Kaisha, D.B. International Delaware Inc., D.B. International Delaware Inc., DAHOC (UK) Limited (in members' voluntary liquidation), DAHOC Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, DB (Barbados) SRL, DB (Malaysia) Nominee (Asing) Sdn. Bhd., DB (Malaysia) Nominee (Tempatan) Sendirian Berhad, DB (Pacific) Limited, DB (Pacific) Limited New York, DB (Pacific) Limited New York, DB Abalone LLC, DB Alex. Brown Holdings Incorporated, DB Alps Corporation, DB Aotearoa Investments Limited, DB Asia Pacific Holdings Limited (in voluntary liquidation), DB Asset Finance I S.a r.l., DB Asset Finance II S.a r.l., DB Aster II LLC, DB Aster III LLC, DB Aster Inc., DB Aster LLC, DB Beteiligungs-Holding GmbH, DB Boracay LLC, DB Capital Investments Sarl, DB Capital Markets (Deutschland) GmbH, DB Capital Partners Inc., DB Capital Partners Inc., DB Cartera de Inmuebles 1 S.A.U., DB Cartera de Inmuebles 1 S.A.U., DB Chestnut Holdings Limited, DB Commodity Services LLC, DB Consorzio S. Cons. a r. l., DB Corporate Advisory (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., DB Covered Bond S.r.l., DB Credit Investments S.a r.l., DB Delaware Holdings (Europe) Limited, DB Direkt GmbH, DB Elara LLC, DB Energy Commodities Limited (in members' voluntary liquidation), DB Energy Trading LLC, DB Enfield Infrastructure Holdings Limited, DB Equipment Leasing Inc., DB Equipment Leasing Inc., DB Equity Limited, DB Finance (Delaware) LLC, DB Finance (Delaware) LLC, DB Finance International GmbH, DB Ganymede 2006 L.P., DB Global Markets Multi-Strategy Fund I Ltd., DB Global Technology Inc., DB Global Technology Inc., DB Global Technology SRL, DB Group Services (UK) Limited, DB HR Solutions GmbH, DB Holding Fundo de Investimento Multimercado Investimento no Exterior Credito Privado, DB Holdings (New York) Inc., DB Holdings (New York) Inc., DB Holdings (South America) Limited, DB IROC Leasing Corp., DB Immobilienfonds 1 Wieland KG, DB Immobilienfonds 2 KG i.L., DB Immobilienfonds 4 KG i.L., DB Immobilienfonds 5 Wieland KG, DB Impact Investment (GP) Limited, DB Impact Investment Fund I L.P., DB Impact Investment Fund I L.P., DB Industrial Holdings Beteiligungs GmbH & Co. KG, DB Industrial Holdings GmbH, DB Intermezzo LLC, DB International (Asia) Limited, DB International Investments Limited, DB International Trust (Singapore) Limited, DB Investment Managers Inc., DB Investment Managers Inc., DB Investment Partners Inc., DB Investment Partners Inc., DB Investment Resources (US) Corporation, DB Investment Resources Holdings Corp., DB Investment Services GmbH, DB Io LP, DB Litigation Fee LLC, DB London (Investor Services) Nominees Limited, DB Management Support GmbH, DB Managers LLC, DB Municipal Holdings LLC, DB Nexus American Investments (UK) Limited (in members'voluntary liquidation), DB Nexus Investments (UK) Limited (in members' voluntary liquidation), DB Nominees (Hong Kong) Limited, DB Nominees (Singapore) Pte Ltd, DB Omega BTV S.C.S., DB Omega Holdings LLC, DB Omega Ltd., DB Omega S.C.S., DB Operaciones y Servicios Interactivos Agrupacion de Interes Economico, DB Overseas Finance Delaware Inc., DB Overseas Finance Delaware Inc., DB Overseas Holdings Limited, DB PWM, DB Portfolio Southwest Inc., DB Print GmbH, DB Privat- und Firmenkundenbank AG, DB Private Clients Corp., DB Private Wealth Mortgage Ltd., DB RC Holdings LLC, DB Re S.A., DB Service Centre Limited, DB Service Uruguay S.A., DB Services Americas Inc., DB Services Americas Inc., DB Servizi Amministrativi S.r.l., DB Strategic Advisors Inc., DB Strategic Advisors Inc., DB Structured Derivative Products LLC, DB Structured Derivative Products LLC, DB Structured Finance 1 Designated Activity Company, DB Structured Finance 2 Designated Activity Company, DB Structured Holdings Luxembourg S.a r.l., DB Structured Products Inc., DB Structured Products Inc., DB Trustee Services Limited, DB Trustees (Hong Kong) Limited, DB U.S. Financial Markets Holding Corporation, DB UK Bank Limited, DB UK Holdings Limited, DB UK PCAM Holdings Limited, DB USA Core Corporation, DB USA Corporation, DB Valoren S.a r.l., DB Value S.a r.l., DB VersicherungsManager GmbH, DB Vita S.A., DBAB Wall Street LLC, DBAH Capital LLC, DBAH Capital LLC, DBCIBZ1, DBCIBZ2, DBFIC Inc., DBFIC Inc., DBNZ Overseas Investments (No.1) Limited, DBOI Global Services (UK) Limited, DBOI Global Services Private Limited, DBR Investments Co. Limited, DBRE Global Real Estate Management IA Ltd., DBRE Global Real Estate Management IB Ltd., DBRE Global Real Estate Management IB Ltd., DBRE Global Real Estate Management US IB L.L.C., DBRMS4, DBRMSGP1, DBUK PCAM Limited, DBUKH No. 2 Limited, DBUSBZ1 LLC, DBUSBZ1 LLC, DBUSBZ2 S.a r.l., DBUSBZ2 S.a r.l., DBX Advisors LLC, DBX ETF Trust, DBX Strategic Advisors LLC, DBO Vermogensverwertung GmbH, DEBEKO Immobilien GmbH & Co Grundbesitz OHG, DEE Deutsche Erneuerbare Energien GmbH, DEUFRAN Beteiligungs GmbH, DEUKONA Versicherungs-Vermittlungs-GmbH, DEUTSCHE BANK A.S., DG China Clean Tech Partners, DI Deutsche Immobilien Treuhandgesellschaft mbH, DIB-Consult Deutsche Immobilien- und BeteiligungsBeratungsgesellschaft mbH i.L., DISCA Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, DNU Nominees Pty Limited, DSL Portfolio GmbH & Co. KG, DSL Portfolio Verwaltungs GmbH, DTS Nominees Pty Limited, DWS Alternatives France, DWS Alternatives Global Limited, DWS Alternatives GmbH, DWS Asset Management (Korea) Company Limited, DWS Beteiligungs GmbH, DWS CH AG, DWS Distributors Inc., DWS Distributors Inc., DWS Far Eastern Investments Limited, DWS Group GmbH & Co. KGaA, DWS Group Services UK Limited, DWS Grundbesitz GmbH, DWS International GmbH, DWS Investment GmbH, DWS Investment Management Americas Inc., DWS Investment Management Americas Inc., DWS Investment S.A., DWS Investments Australia Limited, DWS Investments Hong Kong Limited, DWS Investments Japan Limited, DWS Investments Shanghai Limited, DWS Investments Singapore Limited, DWS Investments UK Limited, DWS Management GmbH, DWS Real Estate GmbH, DWS Service Company, DWS Trust Company, DWS USA Corporation, De Heng Asset Management Company Limited, De Meng Innovative (Beijing) Consulting Company Limited, DeAM Infrastructure Limited, Deloraine Spain S.L., Delowrezham de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Deposit Solutions, Deutsche (Aotearoa) Capital Holdings New Zealand, Deutsche (Aotearoa) Foreign Investments New Zealand, Deutsche (Mauritius) Limited Port, Deutsche (New Munster) Holdings New Zealand Limited, Deutsche Access Investments Limited, Deutsche Aeolia Power Production Societe Anonyme, Deutsche Alt-A Securities Inc., Deutsche Alt-A Securities Inc., Deutsche Alternative Asset Management (France) SAS, Deutsche Alternative Asset Management (UK) Limited, Deutsche Asia Pacific Holdings Pte Ltd, Deutsche Asset Management (India) Private Limited, Deutsche Asset Management (Japan) Limited, Deutsche Asset Management (Korea) Company Limited, Deutsche Asset Management S.A., Deutsche Asset Management S.G.I.I.C. S.A., Deutsche Australia Limited, Deutsche Bank (Cayman) Limited, Deutsche Bank (Chile), Deutsche Bank (China) Co. Ltd., Deutsche Bank (China) Co. Ltd., Deutsche Bank (Malaysia) Berhad, Deutsche Bank (Suisse) SA, Deutsche Bank (Uruguay) Sociedad Anonima Institucion Financiera Externa, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, Deutsche Bank Americas Holding Corp., Deutsche Bank Bauspar-Aktiengesellschaft, Deutsche Bank Capital Finance LLC I, Deutsche Bank Capital Finance Trust I, Deutsche Bank Europe GmbH, Deutsche Bank Financial Company, Deutsche Bank Holdings Inc., Deutsche Bank Holdings Inc., Deutsche Bank Insurance Agency Incorporated, Deutsche Bank Insurance Agency of Delaware, Deutsche Bank International Limited, Deutsche Bank Investments (Guernsey) Limited, Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A. - Fiduciary Deposits, Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A. - Fiduciary Note Programme, Deutsche Bank Mutui S.p.A., Deutsche Bank Mexico S.A. Institucion de Banca Multiple, Deutsche Bank Mexico S.A. Institucion de Banca Multiple, Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, Deutsche Bank National Trust Company Los, Deutsche Bank Nominees (Guernsey) Limited, Deutsche Bank Nominees (Jersey) Limited, Deutsche Bank Polska Spolka Akcyjna, Deutsche Bank Representative Office Nigeria Limited, Deutsche Bank S.A. - Banco Alemao, Deutsche Bank S.A. - Banco Alemao Sao, Deutsche Bank SPEARs/LIFERs Series DBE-8011 Trust, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Deutsche Bank Securities Limited, Deutsche Bank Services (Jersey) Limited, Deutsche Bank Sociedad Anonima Espanola, Deutsche Bank Sociedad Anonima Espanola, Deutsche Bank Societa per Azioni, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Delaware, Deutsche Bank Trust Company National Association, Deutsche Bank Trust Company National Association, Deutsche Bank Trust Corporation, Deutsche CIB Centre Private Limited, Deutsche Capital Finance (2000) Limited, Deutsche Capital Hong Kong Limited, Deutsche Capital Management Limited, Deutsche Capital Markets Australia Limited, Deutsche Capital Partners China Limited, Deutsche Cayman Ltd., Deutsche Colombia S.A.S., Deutsche Custody N.V., Deutsche Domus New Zealand Limited, Deutsche Equities India Private Limited, Deutsche Finance Co 1 Pty Limited, Deutsche Finance Co 2 Pty Limited, Deutsche Finance Co 3 Pty Limited, Deutsche Finance Co 4 Pty Limited, Deutsche Finance No. 2 Limited, Deutsche Foras New Zealand Limited, Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Immobilien-Leasing mit beschrankter Haftung, Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Immobilien-Leasing mit beschrankterHaftung, Deutsche Global Markets Limited, Deutsche Group Holdings (SA) Proprietary Limited, Deutsche Group Services Pty Limited, Deutsche Grundbesitz Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Deutsche Grundbesitz Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH i.L., Deutsche Grundbesitz-Anlagegesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Deutsche Holdings (BTI) Limited, Deutsche Holdings (Grand Duchy), Deutsche Holdings (Luxembourg) S.a r.l., Deutsche Holdings (Malta) Ltd., Deutsche Holdings Limited, Deutsche Holdings No. 2 Limited, Deutsche Holdings No. 3 Limited, Deutsche Holdings No. 4 Limited, Deutsche Immobilien Leasing GmbH, Deutsche India Holdings Private Limited, Deutsche International Corporate Services (Ireland) Limited, Deutsche International Corporate Services Limited, Deutsche International Custodial Services Limited, Deutsche Inversiones Dos S.A., Deutsche Inversiones Limitada, Deutsche Investments (Netherlands) N.V., Deutsche Investments India Private Limited, Deutsche Investor Services Private Limited, Deutsche Knowledge Services Pte. Ltd., Deutsche Leasing New York Corp., Deutsche Mandatos S.A., Deutsche Master Funding Corporation, Deutsche Mexico Holdings S.a r.l., Deutsche Morgan Grenfell Group Limited, Deutsche Morgan Grenfell Group Public Limited Company, Deutsche Mortgage & Asset Receiving Corporation, Deutsche Mortgage Securities Inc., Deutsche Mortgage Securities Inc., Deutsche Nederland N.V., Deutsche New Zealand Limited, Deutsche Nominees Limited, Deutsche Oppenheim Family Office AG, Deutsche Overseas Issuance New Zealand Limited, Deutsche Postbank, Deutsche Postbank Finance Center Objekt GmbH, Deutsche Postbank Funding LLC I, Deutsche Postbank Funding LLC II, Deutsche Postbank Funding LLC III, Deutsche Private Asset Management Limited, Deutsche Securities (India) Private Limited, Deutsche Securities (Proprietary) Limited, Deutsche Securities (SA) (Proprietary) Limited, Deutsche Securities Asia Limited, Deutsche Securities Australia Limited, Deutsche Securities Inc., Deutsche Securities Israel Ltd., Deutsche Securities Korea Co., Deutsche Securities Mauritius Limited, Deutsche Securities Menkul Degerler A.S., Deutsche Securities S.A., Deutsche Securities S.A. de C.V. Casa de Bolsa, Deutsche Securities S.A. de C.V. Casa de Bolsa, Deutsche Securities Saudi Arabia, Deutsche Securities SpA, Deutsche Securities Venezuela S.A., Deutsche Securitisation Australia Pty Limited, Deutsche Services Polska Sp. z o.o., Deutsche StiftungsTrust GmbH, Deutsche Strategic Investment Holdings Yugen Kaisha, Deutsche Trust Company Limited Japan, Deutsche Trustee Company Limited, Deutsche Trustee Services (India) Private Limited, Deutsche Trustees Malaysia Berhad, Deutsche Wealth Management S.G.I.I.C. S.A., Deutsches Institut fur Altersvorsorge GmbH, Durian (Luxembourg) S.a r.l., EC EUROPA IMMOBILIEN FONDS NR. 3 GmbH & CO. KG i.I., Elba Finance GmbH, Elizabethan Holdings Limited, Elizabethan Management Limited, Emerald Asset Repackaging Designated Activity Company, Erste Frankfurter Hoist GmbH, European Value Added I (Alternate G.P.) LLP, Exinor SA, FARAMIR Beteiligungs- und Verwaltungs GmbH, FRANKFURT CONSULT GmbH, Fiduciaria Sant' Andrea S.r.L., Finanzberatungsgesellschaft mbH der Deutschen Bank, Franz Urbig- und Oscar Schlitter-Stiftung Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Freddie Mac Class A Taxable Multifamily M Certificates Series M-037, Freddie Mac Class A Taxable Multifamily M Certificates Series M-039, Freddie Mac Class A Taxable Multifamily M Certificates Series M-040, Freddie Mac Class A Taxable Multifamily M Certificates Series M-041, Freddie Mac Class A Taxable Multifamily M Certificates Series M-043, Freddie Mac Class A Taxable Multifamily M Certificates Series M-044, Freddie Mac Class A Taxable Multifamily M Certificates Series M-047, Funfte SAB Treuhand und Verwaltung GmbH & Co. Suhl "Rimbachzentrum" KG, G Finance Holding Corp., G.O. IB-US Management L.L.C., G918 Corp., GAC-HEL Inc., GWC-GAC Corp., Galene S.a r.l., Gemini Technology Services Inc., German American Capital, German American Capital Corporation, Gladyr Spain S.L., Global Markets Fundo de Investimento Multimercado, Global Markets III Fundo de Investimento Multimercado - Credito, Greenwood Properties Corp., Grundstucksgesellschaft Frankfurt Bockenheimer Landstrae GbR, Grundstucksgesellschaft Kerpen-Sindorf Vogelrutherfeld GbR, Grundstucksgesellschaft Leipzig Petersstrae GbR, Grundstucksgesellschaft Wiesbaden Luisenstrae/Kirchgasse GbR, HTB Spezial GmbH & Co. KG, Hollandsche Bank-Unie, IOS Finance EFC S.A., ISTRON Beteiligungs- und Verwaltungs-GmbH, IVAF I Manager S.a r.l., IVAF I Manager S.a r.l., Immobilienfonds Buro-Center Erfurt am Flughafen Bindersleben I GbR, Immobilienfonds Buro-Center Erfurt am Flughafen Bindersleben II GbR, Immobilienfonds Mietwohnhauser Quadrath-Ichendorf GbR, Immobilienfonds Wohn- und Geschaftshaus Koln-Blumenberg V GbR, J R Nominees (Pty) Ltd, Joint Stock Company Deutsche Bank DBU, Jyogashima Godo Kaisha, KEBA Gesellschaft fur interne Services mbH, Kidson Pte Ltd, Konsul Inkasso GmbH, Kradavimd UK Lease Holdings Limited, LA Water Holdings Limited, LAWL Pte. 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. Eastmain Resources Inc., together with its subsidiary, Eastmain Mines Inc., engages in the acquisition and exploration of mineral resource properties in Canada. The company primarily explores for gold, silver, nickel, platinum, and copper deposits. Its flagship project is the Clearwater project, which hosts the Eau Claire gold deposit covering an area of 201 square kilometers located in the central portion of the Eastmain River Greenstone Belt within the James Bay Mining District of QuAbec. The company was incorporated in 1982 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Read More UBS Group AG is a holding company, which engages in the provision of financial management solutions. It operates through the following segments: Global Wealth Management;; Personal and Corporate Banking; Asset Management; Investment Bank, and Corporate Center. The Global Wealth Management segment advises and offers financial services to wealthy private clients except those served by Wealth Management Americas which include banking and lending, wealth planning, and investment management. The Personal and Corporate segment offers financial products and services to private, corporate, and institutional clients in Switzerland. The Asset Management segment consists of investment management products and services; platform solutions and advisory support to institutions; wholesale intermediaries, and wealth management clients. The Investment Bank segment comprises investment advice, financial solutions, and capital markets access among corporate, institutional, and wealth management clients. The Corporate Center segment is involved in the services, group asset and liability management and non-core and legacy portfolio. The company was founded on June 29, 1998 and is headquartered in Zurich Read More Kinder Morgan, Inc. operates as an energy infrastructure company. The firm engages in the operation of pipelines and terminals that transport natural gas, gasoline, crude oil, carbon dioxide (CO2) and other products and stores petroleum products chemicals and handles bulk materials like ethanol, coal, petroleum coke and steel. It operates through the following segments: Natural Gas Pipelines, CO2, Terminals, Product Pipelines and Kinder Morgan Canada. The Natural Gas Pipelines segment engages in the ownership and operation of major interstate and intrastate natural gas pipeline and storage systems, natural gas and crude oil gathering systems and natural gas processing and treating facilities. The CO2 segment focuses on the production, transportation and marketing of CO2 to oil fields that use CO2 as a flooding medium for recovering crude oil from mature oil fields to increase production. The Terminals segment consists of the ownership and operation of liquids and bulk terminal facilities located throughout the U.S. and portions of Canada that trans load and store refined petroleum products, crude oil, chemicals, ethanol and bulk products, including coal, petroleum coke, fertilizer, Read More Captured from Trump's twitter U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday he has ordered the withdrawal of new sanctions on North Korea, possibly signaling an intention to continue denuclearization negotiations with the regime. Trump was initially thought to be referring to sanctions the U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed Thursday on two Chinese shipping companies accused of helping the North evade sanctions. The Washington Post later reported, citing officials familiar with the matter, that Trump was in fact referring to future sanctions that had been scheduled for the coming days. The confusion lay in Trump's announcement on Twitter. "It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea," he wrote, although no new North Korea-related sanctions were announced Friday. "I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" he said. The announcement came as negotiations to dismantle North Korea's nuclear weapons program have hit an impasse following the collapse of last month's summit between Trump and the North's leader, Kim Jong-un. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a message to reporters, "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary." North Korea is under punitive sanctions for its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs and has demanded their removal in exchange for steps toward denuclearization. The U.S. has refused to lift sanctions short of the North's complete denuclearization. Last week, North Korean Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui threatened to abandon the negotiations, saying the regime had no intention to give in to Washington's "gangster-like" demands. She also said Kim would decide soon whether to pursue talks and maintain his moratorium on nuclear and missile tests. Trump's decision could also be related to other events demonstrating North Korea's frustration at the fruitless negotiations, according to Harry Kazianis, director of Korean Studies at the Center for the National Interest. Hours after the sanctions were announced Thursday, North Korea pulled its officials from an inter-Korean liaison office in its border city of Kaesong. "There might be fears in the White House that Chairman Kim might be getting ready to make an announcement that Pyongyang is dropping out of talks with Washington for the foreseeable future," Kazianis said. "Trump's canceling out of sanctions might have been a bid to get North Korea to change its thinking." (Yonhap) 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 innogy SE operates as an energy company in Europe. The company operates in two divisions, Grid & Infrastructure and Retail. The Grid & Infrastructure division is involved in the operation of gas distribution network in Croatia, as well as electricity distribution network in Poland and Hungary; and water business. The Retail division sells electricity and gas. The company serves residential, commercial, industrial, and corporate customers, as well as distributors. innogy SE has a strategic partnership with Nordex. The company was formerly known as RWE International SE and changed its name to innogy SE in September 2016. innogy SE was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Essen, Germany. innogy SE is a subsidiary of E.ON Verwaltungs SE. Read More iShares MSCI Italy ETF shares reverse split on Monday, November 7th 2016. The 1-2 reverse split was announced on Friday, October 14th 2016. The number of shares owned by shareholders was adjusted after the market closes on Friday, November 4th 2016. An investor that had 100 shares of iShares MSCI Italy ETF stock prior to the reverse split would have 50 shares after the split. Just Group plc provides various financial services in the retirement income market in the United Kingdom. It offers de-risking solutions, guaranteed income for life, secure lifetime income, care plans, lifetime mortgages, and protection products. The company also provides professional services, including regulated financial advice and guidance services; and a range of business services, such as consultancy and software development, and outsourced customer service delivery and marketing services. In addition, it engages in writing of insurance products for distribution to the at- or in-retirement market, which is undertaken through the activities of the life company; and provision of licensed software to financial advisers, banks, building societies, life assurance companies, and pension trustees. Further, the company arranges guaranteed income for life contracts; and provides lifetime mortgages through advice and intermediary services. It offers its products and services to trustees and scheme sponsors, individuals, homeowners, and other corporate clients. The company was formerly known as JRP Group plc and changed its name to Just Group plc in May 2017. Just Group plc was founded in 2004 and is based in Reigate, the United Kingdom. Read More North Korea's state-controlled media made no mention of the withdrawal of the staff from a liaison office with South Korea on Saturday, a day after the North's abrupt move that is seen as putting pressure on Seoul over Pyongyang's nuclear program. Weeks after a second summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ended without an agreement, North Korea pulled out of the inter-Korean liaison office in the North's border city of Kaesong on Friday. North Korea's media, including the Rodong Sinmun and Korean Central Television, had kept mum on the withdrawal as of Saturday morning. Some analysts said the North's withdrawal is apparently aimed at intensifying pressure on South Korea, which has been brokering talks between Washington and Pyongyang. "The North's decision basically seems like a protest to urge Seoul to persuade the U.S., as this Washington factor has been an obstacle to carrying out agreements made between the two Korean leaders," Lim Eul-chul, a professor at the Institute for Far East Studies at Kyungnam University, said. The office opened in September last year to facilitate inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation in accordance with an agreement that President Moon Jae-in and the North Korean leader reached at their first summit in April last year. Relations between the South and the North made significant strides last year, with Moon and Kim holding three summits, but the reconciliation process has reached a deadlock as the denuclearization negotiations between the North and the United States have made little progress. (Yonhap) Maxar Technologies Inc. provides earth intelligence and space infrastructure solutions in the United States, Asia, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, Canada, and internationally. It operates through Earth Intelligence and Space Infrastructure segments. The Earth Intelligence segment offers earth imagery products, including orthorectified imagery, imagery basemap, 3D and elevation, and information products; and SecureWatch, a subscription offering that provides online access to imagery and geospatial intelligence platform. This segment also offers geospatial information, application, and analytic services. It serves U.S. and other international government agencies, such as defense and intelligence agencies, as well as commercial customers in various markets. The Space Infrastructure segment provides space based infrastructure, robotics, sub-systems, and information solutions, including communication and imaging satellites and payloads; platforms for space exploration and hosting instruments for earth science; space subsystems for power, propulsion, and communication; satellite ground systems and support services; space-based remote sensory solutions; space robotics; and defense systems. This segment serves government agencies and satellite operators. Maxar Technologies Inc. was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Westminster, Colorado. Read More Nabors Industries Ltd. engages in the provision of platform work over and drilling rigs. It operates through the following segments: U.S. Drilling, Canada Drilling, International Drilling, Drilling Solutions, and Rig Technologies. The U.S. Drilling segment includes land drilling activities in the lower 48 states and Alaska, as well as offshore operations in the Gulf of Mexico. The Canada segment consists of land-based drilling rigs in Canada. The International segment focuses in maintaining a footprint in the oil and gas market, most notably in Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Argentina, Colombia, Kazakhstan, and Venezuela. The Drilling Solutions segment offers drilling technologies, such as patented steering systems and rig instrumentation software systems that enhance drilling performance and wellbore placement. The Rig Technologies segment comprises Canrig, which manufactures and sells top drives, catwalks, wrenches, drawworks, and drilling related equipment, such as robotic systems and downhole tools. The company was founded by Clair Nabors in 1952 and is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Read More New Look Vision Group Inc. provides eye care products and services in Canada and the United States. It offers prescription eyewear and non-prescription eyewear; contact lenses; sunglasses, protective eyewear, and reading glasses; and accessories, such as cleaning products for eyeglasses and contact lenses. As of December 26, 2020, the company operated a network of 402 stores primarily under the New Look Eyewear, Vogue Optical, Greiche & Scaff, Iris, Edward Beiner, and The Vision Clinic banners in Canada and the United States. It also operates lens processing laboratories in Ville St-Laurent, QuAbec. The company was formerly known as New Look Eyewear Inc. and changed its name to New Look Vision Group Inc. in June 2015. New Look Vision Group Inc. was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada. Read More John Wiley & Sons, Inc. operates as a research and learning company worldwide. The company operates in three segments: Research, Publishing, and Solutions. The Research segment offers scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly journals, as well as related content and services. This segment also publishes journals in the areas of physical sciences and engineering, health sciences, social science, and humanities and life sciences; and provides publishing software for scholarly and professional societies to deliver, host, enhance, market, and manage content on the Web. This segment serves academic, corporate, government, and public libraries, funders of research, researchers, scientists, clinicians, engineers and technologists, and students and professors. This segment sells its products in digital and print formats through research libraries and library consortia, and independent subscription agents, as well as directly to professional society members and other customers. The Publishing segment acquires, develops, and publishes scientific, professional, and education books and related content, as well as provides test preparation services and course workflow tools, to libraries, corporations, students, professionals, and researchers. This segment serves business, finance, accounting, workplace learning, management, leadership, technology, behavioral health, engineering/architecture, science and medicine, and education communities. This segment distributes its products in digital and print formats through chain and online booksellers, libraries, colleges and universities, corporations, direct to consumer, Web sites, distributor networks, and other online applications. The Solutions segment provides online program management services for higher education institutions; corporate learning services; and development and assessment services for businesses and professionals. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. was founded in 1807 and is headquartered in Hoboken, New Jersey. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Lennar: 360 Developers LLC, Alliance Financial Services Inc., Ann Arundel Farms Ltd., Aquaterra Utilities Inc., Arbor Mill Veteran Project 2018 LLC, Asbury Woods L.L.C., Astoria Options LLC, Autumn Creek Development Ltd., Aylon LLC, Azusa Associates LLC, B2 Milpitas LLC, BB Investment Holdings LLC, BCI Properties LLC, BMR Communities LLC, BMR Construction Inc., BMTD LLC, BPH I LLC, Bainebridge 249 LLC, Bay Colony Expansion 369 Ltd., Bellagio Lennar LLC, Belle Meade LEN Holdings LLC, Belle Meade Partners LLC, Black Mountain Ranch LLC, Blue Horizons Estates LLC, Bonterra Lennar LLC, Bramalea California Inc., Bressi Gardenlane LLC, Breton Park Lennar LLC, CAP IL 1 LLC, CL Ventures LLC, CML INACTIVE LLC, CML-MO HAF LLC, CML-MO HAF PARKING LLC, CP Block 6aS LLC, CP Block 8aS LLC, CP Block 9aS LLC, CP Center Apartments LLC, CP Center Garage LLC, CP Red Oak Partners Ltd., CP Vertical Development Co. 1 LLC, CP/HPS Development Co. GP LLC, CP/HPS Development Co.-C LLC, CPFE LLC, CPHP Development LLC, CalAtlantic Financial Services Inc., CalAtlantic Group, CalAtlantic Group Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Arizona Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Georgia Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Texas Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Washington Inc., CalAtlantic Mortgage Inc., CalAtlantic National Title Solutions LLC, CalAtlantic Title Agency LLC, CalAtlantic Title Group LLC, CalAtlantic Title Inc., CalAtlantic Title LLC, CalAtlantic Title of Maryland Inc., Camarillo Village Park LLC, Cambria L.L.C., Candlestick Retail Member LLC, Cardiovascular Medical Specialists LLC, Carolina Blue LLC, Carson 175 LLC, Cary Woods LLC, Casa Marina Development LLC, Central Park West Holdings LLC, Cherrytree II LLC, Club Bonterra Lennar LLC, Coco Palm 82 LLC, Colonial Heritage LLC, Columbia National Risk Retention Group Inc., Commonwealth Incentive Fee LLC, Concord Station LLP, Coventry L.L.C., Creekside Crossing L.L.C., Crest at Fondren Investor LLC, DBJ Holdings LLC, DCA Financial LLC, DTC Holdings of Florida LLC, Darcy-Joliet L.L.C., Durrell 33 LLC, EL Ventures LLC, EV LLC, Eagle Bend Commercial LLC, Eagle Home Mortgage LLC, Estates Seven LLC, Evergreen Village LLC, F&R QVI Home Investments USA LLC, FLORDADE LLC, Faria Preserve LLC, Fidelity Guaranty and Acceptance Corp., Fidelity Land LLC, Fox-Maple Associates LLC, Friendswood Development Company LLC, GDI MANAGER LLC, Garco Investments LLC, Greystone Construction Inc., Greystone Homes of Nevada Inc., Greystone Nevada Holdings LLC, Greystone Nevada LLC, Greywall Club L.L.C., HCC Investors LLC, HPS Development Co. LP, HPS Vertical Development Co. LLC, HPS Vertical Development Co.-B LP, HPS Vertical Development Co.-D/E LLC, HPS1 Block 1 LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3B LLC, HPS1 Block 50 LLC, HPS1 Block 51 LLC, HPS1 Block 52 LLC, HPS1 Block 53 LLC, HPS1 Block 54 LLC, HPS1 Block 55 LLC, HPS1 Block 56/57 LLC, HSP Arizona Inc., HTC Golf Club LLC, Hammocks Lennar LLC, Harbor Highlands Group LLC, Harveston LLC, Haverton L.L.C., Heathcote Commons LLC, Heritage Pkwy East Holdings LLC, Heritage of Auburn Hills L.L.C., Hewitts Landing Trustee LLC, Hingham Properties LLC, Huntley Venture L.L.C., Inactive Companies LLC, Independence L.L.C., Independence Orlando LLC, Isles at Bayshore Club LLC, KMC Real Estate Investors LLC, Kendall Hammocks Commercial LLC, Kentuckiana Medical Center LLC, Kingman Lennar LLC, LB/L Duc III Antioch 330 LLC, LCD Asante LLC, LCI Downtown Doral Investor LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor GP LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor LP LLC, LEN - Belle Meade LLC, LEN - OBS Windemere LLC, LEN - Palm Vista LLC, LEN BPT Investor LLC, LEN Mirada Investor LLC, LEN Notarize Investor LLC, LEN OT Holdings LLC, LEN Paradise Cable LLC, LEN Paradise Operating LLC, LEN-CG South LLC, LEN-Cypress Mill LLC, LEN-Ryan 1 LLC, LEN-Touchstone LLC, LENH I LLC, LENNAR HOMES OF TENNESSEE LLC, LFS Holding Company LLC, LH Eastwind LLC, LHI Renaissance LLC, LMC 10th & Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 144th and Grant Investor LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Holdings LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Investor LLC, LMC 360 Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 410 S Wabash Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Investor LLC, LMC 8th Avenue Apartment Investor LLC, LMC 990 Bannock Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Investor LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Holdings LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Investor LLC, LMC Block 42 Holdings LLC, LMC Build to Core III Investor LLC, LMC Build to Core III LLC, LMC Burnside Holdings LLC, LMC Burnside Investor LLC, LMC Chandler and McClintock Holdings LLC, LMC Charlestowne Holdings LLC, LMC Charlotte Ballpark Developer LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Holdings LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Investor LLC, LMC Cobalt Holdings LLC, LMC Costa Mesa Holdings LP, LMC Crest at Park West Holdings LP, LMC Denver Gateway I Investor LLC, LMC Denver Gateway II Holdings LLC, LMC Development LLC, LMC Downtown Doral South Holdings LLC, LMC Durham Gateway Holdings LP, LMC Evans School Holdings LLC, LMC Gateway Investor LLC, LMC Gateway Venture LLC, LMC Gilman Square Investor LLC, LMC Horton Street Holdings LLC, LMC Huntington Crossing Holdings LLC, LMC Inactive Companies LLC, LMC Lakeside Holdings LP, LMC Leya Holdings LLC, LMC Living Illinois LLC, LMC Living Inc., LMC Living LLC, LMC Living TRS LP, LMC Millenia Investor II LLC, LMC NE Minneapolis Lot 2 Holdings LLC, LMC New Bern Investor LLC, LMC North Park Holdings LP, LMC Parkfield Holdings LLC, LMC Parkfield Investor LLC, LMC Righters Ferry Holdings LLC, LMC River North Holdings LLC, LMC Spring Street Investor LLC, LMC Stonewall Station Investor LLC, LMC Triangle Square Investor LLC, LMC Venture Developer LLC, LMC Verbena Holdings LLC, LMC West Loop Investor LLC, LMCFX Investor LLC, LMCPNW Marymoor Holdings LLC, LMI - Jacksonville Investor LLC, LMI - South Kings Development Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle Holdings LLC, LMI - West Seattle Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle LLC, LMI Cell Tower Investors LLC, LMI City Walk Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale LLC, LMI Contractors LLC, LMI Glencoe Dallas Investor LLC, LMI Lakes West Covina Investor LLC, LMI Largo Park Investor LLC, LMI Las Colinas Station LLC, LMI Naperville Investor LLC, LMI Pacific Tower LLC, LMI Park Central Two LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners Investor LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners LLC, LMI-JC Developer LLC, LMI-JC LLC, LMV 1640 Broadway REIT-DC LP, LMV 1701 Ballard REIT-DC LP, LMV 19H REIT-DC LP, LMV 2026 Madison REIT-DC LP, LMV 85 South Union REIT-DC LP, LMV ATown REIT-DC LP, LMV Annapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Apache Terrace REIT-DC LP, LMV Block 42 REIT-DC LP, LMV Bloomington REIT-DC LP, LMV Bolingbrook REIT-DC LP (DE), LMV Central at McDowell REIT-DC LP, LMV East Village I REIT-DC LP, LMV Edina REIT-DC LP, LMV Fremont WS I REIT-DC LP, LMV Glisan REIT-DC LP, LMV Grand Bay REIT-DC LP, LMV II Grand Bay Pod V Holdings LP, LMV II Kierland Holdings LP, LMV II NoMo Holdings LP, LMV II Venture Developer LLC, LMV II Wynwood Holdings LP, LMV Kirkland REIT-DC LP, LMV Little Italy REIT-DC LP, LMV M Tower REIT-DC LP, LMV Millenia II REIT-DC LP, LMV Milpitas REIT-DC LP, LMV NE Minneapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Oak Park REIT-DC LP, LMV One20Fourth REIT-DC LP, LMV QR Build to Core Manager LLC, LMV Rio Bravo REIT-DC LP, LMV Scottsdale Quarter REIT-DC LP, LMV Tysons REIT-DC LP, LMV Vallagio III REIT-DC LP, LMV Victory Block G REIT-DC LP, LMV Warren Street REIT-DC LP, LNC Communities II LLC, LNC Communities IV LLC, LNC Communities V LLC, LNC Communities VI LLC, LNC Communities VII LLC, LNC Communities VIII LLC, LNC Pennsylvania Realty Inc., LNC at Meadowbrook LLC, LNC at Ravenna LLC, LS College Park LLC, LS Terracina LLC, LV Opendoor Investor LLC, LV Opendoor JV LLC, LW D'Andrea LLC, Lagoon Valley Residential LLC, Lakelands at Easton L.L.C., Legends Club LLC, Legends Golf Club LLC, Len - Little Harbor LLC, Len FW Investor LLC, Len Paradise LLC, Len-Angeline LLC, Len-Hawks Point LLC, Len-Land LLC, Len-Land West LLC, Len-MN LLC, Len-Verandahs LLP, LenCom LLC, LenFive LLC, LenFive Opco GP LLC, LenFive Sub III LLC, LenFive Sub LLC, LenFive Sub Opco GP LLC, Lenalto CMBS LLC, Lencraft LLC, Lennar Aircraft I LLC, Lennar Arizona Construction Inc., Lennar Arizona Inc., Lennar Associates Management Holding Company, Lennar Associates Management LLC, Lennar Avenue One LLC, Lennar Berkeley LLC, Lennar Bevard LLC, Lennar Bridges LLC, Lennar Buffington Colorado Crossing L.P., Lennar Buffington Zachary Scott L.P., Lennar Carolinas LLC, Lennar Central Park LLC, Lennar Central Region Sweep Inc., Lennar Chicago Inc., Lennar Cobra LLC, Lennar Colgate Urban Renewal Development LLC, Lennar Colorado LLC, Lennar Colorado Minerals LLC, Lennar Commercial LLC, Lennar Communities Development Inc., Lennar Communities Inc., Lennar Communities Nevada LLC, Lennar Communities of Chicago L.L.C., Lennar Concord LLC, Lennar Construction Inc., Lennar Cory Road LLC, Lennar Courts LLC, Lennar Developers Inc., Lennar Ewing LLC, Lennar Financial Services LLC, Lennar Flamingo LLC, Lennar Fresno Inc., Lennar Gardens LLC, Lennar Georgia Inc., Lennar Greer Ranch Venture LLC, Lennar Heritage Fields LLC, Lennar Hingham Holdings LLC, Lennar Hingham JV LLC, Lennar Homes Holding LLC, Lennar Homes LLC, Lennar Homes NJ LLC, Lennar Homes of Arizona Inc., Lennar Homes of California Inc., Lennar Homes of Indiana Inc., Lennar Homes of Texas Land and Construction Ltd., Lennar Homes of Texas Sales and Marketing Ltd., Lennar Homes of Utah Inc., Lennar International Holding LLC, Lennar International LLC, Lennar Lakeside Investor LLC, Lennar Layton LLC, Lennar Living LLC, Lennar Lytle LLC, Lennar MF Holdings LLC, Lennar MPA LLC, Lennar MPA WIP LLC, Lennar Mare Island LLC, Lennar Marina A Funding LLC, Lennar Massachusetts Properties Inc., Lennar Middletown LLC, Lennar Monmouth Redevelopers LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Victory Block G Mezz LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily Builders LLC, Lennar Multifamily Communities LLC, Lennar Multifamily Venture DC LP, Lennar New Jersey Holdings LLC, Lennar New Jersey Properties Inc., Lennar New York LLC, Lennar Northeast Properties LLC, Lennar Northwest Inc., Lennar OHB LLC, Lennar PI Acquisition LLC, Lennar PI Property Acquisition LLC, Lennar PIS Management Company LLC, Lennar Pacific Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Management Inc., Lennar Plumsted Urban Renewal LLC, Lennar Point LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core GP LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core LP LLC, Lennar Realty Inc., Lennar Reno LLC, Lennar Riverwalk LLC, Lennar Sacramento Inc., Lennar Sales Corp., Lennar Sierra Sunrise LLC, Lennar Spencer's Crossing LLC, Lennar Sun Ridge LLC, Lennar Texas Holding LLC, Lennar Ventures LLC, Lennar West Valley LLC, Lennar Winncrest LLC, Lennar at Franklin LLC, Lennar at Jackson LLC, Lennar at Marlboro 79 LLC, Lennar at Monroe LLC, Lennar.com Inc., Longleaf Acquisition LLC, Lori Gardens Associates II LLC, Lori Gardens Associates III LLC, Lori Gardens Associates L.L.C., Lorton Station LLC, Lyons Lennar Farms LLC, Madrona Ridge L.L.C., Madrona Village L.L.C., Madrona Village Mews L.L.C., Majestic Woods LLC, Maple and Broadway Holdings LLC, Menifee Development LLC, Mid-County Utilities Inc., Miralago West Lennar LLC, Mission Viejo 12S Venture LP, Mission Viejo Holdings Inc., Motomic Diagnostics LLC, Multibank 2009-1 CML-ADC Venture LLC, Multibank 2009-1 RES-ADC Venture LLC, NC Properties I LLC, NC Properties II LLC, North American Asset Development LLC, Northbridge L.L.C., OHC/Ascot Belle Meade LLC, One SR L.P., PD-Len Boca Raton LLC, PG Properties Holding LLC, POMAC LLC, PT Metro LLC, Pace Drive Holdings LLC, Palm Gardens At Doral Clubhouse LLC, Palm Gardens at Doral LLC, Palm Springs Classic LLC, Palm Vista Preserve LLC, Patuxent Infrastructure Inc., Pioneer Meadows Development LLC, Pioneer Meadows Investments LLC, Plaza Condominium Ventures LLC, Portside Marina Developers L.L.C., Portside SM Associates L.L.C., Portside SM Holdings L.L.C., Portside Shipyard Developers L.L.C., Prestonfield L.L.C., Quail Roost Lennar LLC, RCCF GP II LLC, RCCF GP III LLC, RCCF GP IV LLC, RCCF GP LLC, RES-FL EIGHT LLC, RES-FL SEVEN LLC, RES-FL VISION ONE LLC, RES-FL VISION TWO LLC, RES-GA CASCADE LLC, RES-GA DIAMOND MEADOWS LLC, RES-GA KAP LLC, RES-GA SOUTHERN PLANTATION LLC, RES-GA THIRTEEN LLC, RES-GA TWELVE LLC, RES-GA WEST LLC, RES-IL ONE LLC, RES-NC ONE LLC, RES-PA LSJ LLC, RES-PA POM LLC, RES-TX BOULEVARD LLC, RH Insurance Company Inc., RH MOA BBCMS 2017-C1 LLC, RH MOA CF 2017-C8 LLC, RH MOA LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C4 LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C6 LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 CLASS B LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 LLC, RL BB FINANCIAL LLC, RL BB INACTIVE LLC, RL BB-AL LLC, RL BB-FL ALHI LLC, RL BB-GA LLC, RL BB-GA RMH LLC, RL BB-IL LLC, RL BB-IN AA LLC, RL BB-IN KRE LLC, RL BB-IN KRE OP LLC, RL BB-IN KRE RE LLC, RL BB-MS LLC, RL BB-NC LLC, RL BB-OH LLC, RL BB-SC BROOKSA LLC, RL BB-SC CLR II LLC, RL BB-SC CLR III LLC, RL BB-SC CLR IV LLC, RL BB-SC CLR LLC, RL BB-SC CRRC LLC, RL BB-SC RACEDAY LLC, RL BB-TN BRISTOL LLC, RL BB-TN LLC, RL BB-TN RACEDAY TOWER LLC, RL BB-TX LLC, RL BB-WV LLC, RL CMBS Holdings LLC, RL CML 2009-1 Investments LLC, RL REGI ARKANSAS LLC, RL REGI Alabama LLC, RL REGI FINANCIAL LLC, RL REGI Florida LLC, RL REGI GEORGIA LLC, RL REGI INACTIVE LLC, RL REGI KANSAS LLC, RL REGI MISSISSIPPI LLC, RL REGI MISSOURI LLC, RL REGI NORTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI SOUTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI TENNESSEE LLC, RL REGI VIRGINIA LLC, RL REGI-AL HP LLC, RL REGI-AL VRC LLC, RL REGI-FL CRC LLC, RL REGI-FL ESH LLC, RL REGI-FL FT. PIERCE LLC, RL REGI-FL GDL LLC, RL REGI-FL ITALIA LLC, RL REGI-FL MRED LLC, RL REGI-FL RDI LLC, RL REGI-FL SARASOTA LLC, RL REGI-FL TPL LLC, RL REGI-FL VARC LLC, RL REGI-GA DRAD LLC, RL REGI-GA HAY DB LLC, RL REGI-GA MHU LLC, RL REGI-GA MPD LLC, RL REGI-GA RLR LLC, RL REGI-MO GMB LLC, RL REGI-MO MOSCOW MILLS LLC, RL REGI-MS Double H LLC, RL REGI-MS OCEAN SPRINGS LLC, RL REGI-NC CIL LLC, RL REGI-NC LITTLE WING LLC, RL REGI-NC MLD LLC, RL REGI-NC Mland LLC, RL REGI-NC RALEIGH LLC, RL REGI-NC SUGARM LLC, RL REGI-NM LLC, RL REGI-SC CTL LLC, RL REGI-SC LAKE E LLC, RL REGI-SC TDG LLC, RL REGI-SC TIG LLC, RL REGI-TN OAK LLC, RL REGI-TN SEVIERVILLE LLC, RL RES 2009-1 Investments LLC, RMF Alliance LLC, RMF Commercial LLC, RMF PR New York LLC, RMF Partner LLC, RMF SUB 1 LLC, RMF SUB 2 LLC, RMF SUB 3 LLC, RMF SUB 4 LLC, RMF SUB 5 LLC, RMV LLC, Raintree Village II L.L.C., Raintree Village L.L.C., Ral-Len BM LLC, Ral-Len LLC, Rannel Capital WeWork Series D LLC, Rannel Holdings LLC, Rannel Interests LLC, Rannel Investments LLC, Rannel Mortgage Investments LLC, Rannel Proprietary Investments LLC, Renaissance Joint Venture, Reserve @ Pleasant Grove II LLC, Reserve @ Pleasant Grove LLC, Reserve at River Park LLC, Reserve at South Harrison LLC, Rialto Commercial Mortgage Securities LLC, Rialto Credit Partnership GP LLC, Rialto Mezz Partners GP LLC, Rialto Mortgage Finance LLC, Rialto Partners GP II LLC, Rialto Partners GP III - Debt LLC, Rialto Partners GP III - Property LLC, Rialto Partners GP LLC, Rialto RSSF GP LLC, Riverwalk at Lago Mar LLC, Rocking Horse Minerals LLC, Rutenberg Homes Inc. (Florida), Rutenberg Homes of Texas Inc., Rye Hill Company LLC, Ryland Homes Nevada Holdings LLC, Ryland Homes Nevada LLC, Ryland Homes of California Inc., S. Florida Construction II LLC, S. Florida Construction III LLC, S. Florida Construction LLC, SC 521 Indian Land Reserve LLC, SC 521 Indian Land Reserve South LLC, SPIC CPCO Inc., SPIC CPDB Inc., SPIC CPRB Inc., SPIC Del Sur LLC, SPIC Dublin LLC, SPIC Mesa LLC, SPIC NC Fremont LLC, SPIC Otay LLC, SPIC Springs LLC, San Felipe Indemnity Co. Ltd., San Lucia LLC, San Simeon Lennar LLC, Schulz Ranch Developers LLC, Seminole/70th LLC, Siena at Old Orchard L.L.C., Sierra Vista Communities LLC, Silver Springs Lennar LLC, South Development LLC, Southbank Holding LLC, Spanish Springs Development LLC, St. Charles Active Adult Community LLC, St. Charles Community LLC, Standard Pacific 1 Inc., Standard Pacific Investment Corp., Standard Pacific of Colorado Inc., Standard Pacific of Florida, Standard Pacific of Florida GP Inc., Standard Pacific of Las Vegas Inc., Standard Pacific of Orange County Inc., Standard Pacific of Tampa GP, Standard Pacific of Tampa GP Inc., Standard Pacific of Tonner Hills LLC, Standard Pacific of Walnut Hills Inc., Standard Pacific of the Carolinas LLC, Stoney Holdings LLC, Storey Lake Club LLC, Storey Park Club LLC, Strategic Holdings Inc., Strategic Technologies LLC, Summerfield Venture L.L.C., SunStreet Energy Group LLC, SunStreet Manager LLC, TCO QVI LLC, TICD Hold Co. LLC, TIH Hold Co. LLC, Talega Associates LLC, Temecula Valley LLC, Terra Division LLC, Terra/Winding Creek LLC, The Baywinds Land Trust, The Bridges Club at Rancho Santa Fe Inc., The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe Sales Company Inc., The LNC Northeast Group Inc., The Oasis Club at LEN-CG South LLC, The Preserve at Coconut Creek LLC, The Vistas Club at LEN-CG South LLC, Titlezoom Company, Treasure Island Holdings LLC, Treasure Island Member LLC, Treviso Holding LLC, Two Lakes Lennar LLC, U.S. Home Corporation, U.S. Home Realty Inc., U.S. Home of Arizona Construction Co., U.S. Insurors Inc., U.S.H. Realty Inc., UAMC Holding Company LLC, UB 2018C14 MOA LLC, USH - Flag LLC, USH Equity Corporation, USH LEE LLC, USH Leasing II LLC, USH Leasing LLC, UST Lennar HW Scala SF Joint Venture, VII Crown Farm Investor LLC, Venetian Lennar LLC, Vineyard Land LLC, Vineyard Point 2009 LLC, Vista Palms Clubhouse LLC, WCI Communities, WCI Communities Inc., WCI Communities LLC, WCI Towers Northeast USA Inc., WCI Westshore LLC, WCP LLC, WIP Lennar OHB LLC, Waterview at Hanover LLC, West Lake Village LLC, West Seattle Project X LLC, West Van Buren L.L.C., Westchase Inc., Westchase Ltd., Westfield Homes USA Inc., White Course Lennar LLC, Wild Plum JV LLC, Willowbrook Investors LLC, Winncrest Natomas LLC, Woodbridge Multifamily Developer I LLC, Wright Farm L.L.C., and YLRichards4Acres 2015 LLC. North Korea's ambassadors to China and the United Nations arrived in Beijing on Saturday, five days after they returned to Pyongyang. North Korean Ambassador to China Ji Jae-ryong and Ambassador to the U.N. Kim Song were seen at Beijing Capital International Airport earlier in the day after boarding an Air Koryo flight from Pyongyang. Their visit to Pyongyang could have been aimed at attending an annual meeting of the North's overseas diplomatic mission chiefs, a source said. But the North could have used the opportunity to brainstorm ideas about its negotiating strategy with the United States. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and U.S. President Donald Trump met in Hanoi in late February for their second summit but failed to reach a nuclear deal as they were miles apart on how to match Pyongyang's denuclearization steps with sanctions relief from Washington. Washington has been calling for tightened sanctions against Pyongyang ever since, demanding more tangible denuclearization steps. (Yonhap) The following companies are subsidiares of Sealed Air: A.P.S. (Holdings) Limited, AFP Trading (China) Co. Ltd., AFPTOH LTD, APS Automated Packaging Systems GmbH & Co. KG, APS Verwaltungs-GmbH, Air Ride Pallets Hong Kong Limited, Austin Foam Plastics Inc. (dba AFP Inc.), Automated Packaging Systems, Automated Packaging Systems Asia Holding Company Limited, Automated Packaging Systems Comerciale Importacao do Brasil Ltda., Automated Packaging Systems Europe, Automated Packaging Systems LLC, Automated Packaging Systems Limited, Automated Packaging Systems Southeast Asia Co. Ltd., B+ Equipment, B+ Equipment SAS, Beacon Holdings LLC, Biosphere Industries, BluPack (New Zealand), Blue Dot Packaging Pty Ltd., Cactus (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Cryovac (Malaysia) SDN. BHD, Cryovac Brasil Ltda., Cryovac Holdings II LLC, Cryovac International Holdings Inc., Cryovac LLC*, Cryovac Leasing Corporation, Cryovac Londrina Ltda., Cryovac Packaging Portugal Embalagens Ltda., Cryovac-Sealed Air de Costa Rica S.R.L., DELTAPLAM Embalagens Industria e Comercio, Diversey, Diversey J Trustee Limited, Diversey Trustee Limited, Entapack Pty. Ltd., Fagerdala (Chengdu) Packaging Co. Ltd, Fagerdala (Shanghai) Foams Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Shanghai) Polymer Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Suzhou) Packaging Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Thailand) Limited, Fagerdala (Xiamen) Packaging Co. Ltd., Fagerdala Leamchabung Limited, Fagerdala Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Fagerdala Mexico S.A. de C.V., Fagerdala Mexico Supply Chain S.A. de C.V., Fagerdala Packaging Inc. (Indiana), Fagerdala Singapore Pte Ltd, Fagerdala Singapore Pte. Ltd., Getpacking.com GmbH, Invertol S. de R.L. de C.V., JSC Sealed Air Kaustik, KRIS Automated Packaging Systems Holding Company, Kevothermal LLC, Kevothermal Limited, Nelipak Holdings, Pack-Tiger GmbH, Polyrol Limited, Polyrol Packaging Systems LLC, ProAseptic Technologies S.L., Producembal- Producao de Embalagens LTDA, Reflectix Inc., SLD Air Packaging Paketleme Malzemeleri Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Saddle Brook Insurance Company, Sealed Air (Asia) Holdings BV, Sealed Air (Barbados) S.R.L., Sealed Air (Canada) Co./CIE, Sealed Air (Canada) Holdings B.V., Sealed Air (China) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air (China) Limited, Sealed Air (Israel) Ltd., Sealed Air (Korea) Limited, Sealed Air (Latin America) Holdings II LLC, Sealed Air (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Sealed Air (New Zealand), Sealed Air (Philippines) Inc., Sealed Air (Singapore) Pte. Limited, Sealed Air (Ukraine) Limited, Sealed Air Africa (Pty.) Limited, Sealed Air Americas Manufacturing S. de R.L. de C.V., Sealed Air Argentina S.A., Sealed Air Australia (Holdings) Pty. Limited, Sealed Air Australia Pty. Limited, Sealed Air Australia Real Estate Pty Ltd, Sealed Air B.V., Sealed Air Belgium N.V., Sealed Air Central America S.A., Sealed Air Chile SpA, Sealed Air Colombia Ltda., Sealed Air Corporation (US), Sealed Air Cyprus Ltd., Sealed Air Denmark A/S, Sealed Air Finance B.V., Sealed Air Finance II LLC, Sealed Air Finance Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Funding LLC, Sealed Air General Trading LLC, Sealed Air GmbH (Germany), Sealed Air GmbH (Switzerland), Sealed Air Hellas SA, Sealed Air Holding France SAS, Sealed Air Holdings (New Zealand) Pty. Ltd., Sealed Air Holdings South Africa Proprietary Limited, Sealed Air Holdings UK I Limited, Sealed Air Holdings UK Limited, Sealed Air Hong Kong Limited, Sealed Air Hungary Ltd., Sealed Air Investment and Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air Japan G.K., Sealed Air LLC, Sealed Air Limited (Ireland), Sealed Air Limited (UK), Sealed Air Luxembourg (I) S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Luxembourg (II) S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Management Holding Verwaltungs GmbH, Sealed Air Multiflex GmbH, Sealed Air Netherlands (Holdings) I B.V., Sealed Air Netherlands (Holdings) II B.V., Sealed Air Netherlands Holdings V B.V., Sealed Air Norge AS, Sealed Air OY, Sealed Air Packaging (India) Private Limited, Sealed Air Packaging (Shanghai) Co. Limited, Sealed Air Packaging (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air Packaging LLC, Sealed Air Packaging Materials (India) LLP, Sealed Air Packaging S.L.U., Sealed Air Peru S.A.C., Sealed Air Polska Sp. Zoo, Sealed Air Pty Limited, Sealed Air S.A S., Sealed Air S.r.l., Sealed Air South Africa (Pty.) Ltd., Sealed Air Svenska AB, Sealed Air Taiwan Limited, Sealed Air UK Limited Partnership, Sealed Air US Holdings (Thailand) LLC, Sealed Air Uruguay S.A., Sealed Air Verpackungen GmbH, Sealed Air de Mexico Operations S. de RL. de C.V., Sealed Air de Venezuela S.A., Sealed Air s.r.o., Shanklin Corp, Shanklin Corporation, TTS-Ciptec, TXAFP Asia Pacific Ltd., TXAFP GP LLC, and Trigon Industries. 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 Unification minister nominee Kim Yeon-chul on Friday raised the need to seek various ways to facilitate nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang, including sending a special envoy to North Korea. In his written answers to questions from the National Assembly's foreign affairs committee ahead of his confirmation hearing, Kim also said that Seoul's role in diplomacy with Pyongyang has become more important amid concerns about a possible deadlock in the negotiations. On Friday, Pyongyang abruptly pulled out its staff from an inter-Korean liaison office in the North's border city of Kaesong, casting a pall over the prospects of cross-border cooperation projects and the nuclear talks between it and Washington. "In order to stably manage the situation on the peninsula through inter-Korean dialogue and facilitate North Korea-U.S. negotiations, we need to seek various ways," Kim wrote in the document. He refused to mention who should be chosen as the special envoy to the North. "I call for your understanding as it is difficult to talk about the concrete time and person," he said. Commenting on the issue of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's possible visit to Seoul to reciprocate President Moon Jae-in's trip to Pyongyang last September, he said it could serve as an opportunity for a turning point for improvement in inter-Korean relations and the establishment of peace on the peninsula. Kim also cast the pursuit of the resumption of two stalled inter-Korean projects -- the tours to Mount Kumgang and an inter-Korean industrial complex in Kaesong -- as mutually beneficial ones that would facilitate the North's denuclearization by showing the prospects of a bright future. But he said that South Korea should consider the possibility of resuming the projects in close cooperation with the international community, including the United States, within the framework of the global sanctions regime. (Yonhap) White Mountains Insurance Group Ltd. engages in the acquisition of businesses and assets in the insurance, financial services and related sectors. It operates through the following segments: HG Global/BAM, NSM, Kudu, and Other Operations. The HG Global/BAM segment refers to the White Mountains's investment in HG Global Limited, and the consolidated results of Build America Mutual Assurance Company (BAM). The NSM segment comprises of full-service managing general underwriting agency and program administrator for specialty property and casualty insurance. The Kudu Segment provides capital solutions for boutique asset managers for a variety of purposes including generational ownership transfers, management buyouts, acquisition and growth finance and legacy partner liquidity. The Other Operations segment comprises of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiary, WM Capital, its wholly-owned investment management subsidiary, WM Advisors, and its other intermediate holding companies, as well as certain consolidated and unconsolidated private capital and other investments. The company was founded in 1980 and is headquartered in Hanover, NH. Read More Amber Road, Inc. provides cloud-based global trade management (GTM) solutions in the United States and internationally. The company's GTM solutions include modules, such as import management, export management, China trade management, global logistics management, trade agreement management, and supply chain collaboration, as well as professional services, such as assessment, implementation, education and training, and maintenance and support. It provides modules for logistics contract and rate management; supply chain visibility and event management; international trade compliance; and global knowledge trade content database, supply chain collaboration with international factories and vendors, and duty management solutions to importers and exporters, nonvessel owning common carriers (resellers), and ocean carriers. The company offers its solution to various industries comprising chemical/pharmaceutical, high technology/electronics, industrial/manufacturing, logistics, oil and gas, and retail/apparel through a software-as-a-service model. The company was formerly known as Management Dynamics Inc. and changed its name to Amber Road, Inc. in 2011. Amber Road, Inc. was founded in 1990 and is headquartered in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Read More Several Indiana school teachers were shot with projectiles "execution-style" during a recent active shooter drill, leaving welts, drawing blood and frightening the educators, the Indiana State Teachers Association said. "The teachers were terrified, but were told not to tell anyone what happened. Teachers waiting outside that heard the screaming were brought into the room four at a time and the shooting process was repeated," the association said on Twitter. "No one in education takes these drills lightly. The risk of harming someone far outweighs whatever added realism one is trying to convey here." ISTA Executive Director Dan Holub told CNN the incident took place in January at Meadowlawn Elementary in Monticello, which is part of the Twin Lakes District. The drill was part of ALICE training, which helps prepare schools or other organizations for an active shooter event. "During active shooter drill, four teachers at a time were taken into a room, told to crouch down and were shot execution style with some sort of projectiles - resulting in injuries to the extent that welts appeared, and blood was drawn," the ISTA said on Twitter. The White County Sheriff's Department did not respond to CNN's request for comment. White County Sheriff Bill Brooks told the Indy Star that the ALICE training used an airsoft gun, but the department stopped doing so recently after a teacher was upset by it. Holub said the ISTA has not heard an explanation from law enforcement as to why this method was used. "This was the first time and hopefully last" time that law enforcement shoot at teachers as part of the training, Holub said. "Those teachers who went through it were upset and injured. They brought it to the attention of ISTA leadership." The Twin Lakes School Corporation said in a statement that school staff works with the White County Sheriff's Department to conduct ALICE training. The Twin Lakes Classroom Teachers Organization recently "voiced questions" regarding how the Sheriff's Department conducted the training, the corporation said, and Twin Lakes then facilitated a meeting between them to discuss the issue. The teachers association told the startling story on Twitter on Wednesday as part of its recommendations to amend House Bill 1004 concerning school safety. The proposed bill, which has passed the House, requires an annual active shooter drill and provides Indiana schools access to funds for mental health services. Rep. Wendy McNamara, a Republican legislator who authored HB 1004, told CNN that a mock shooting like the one that happened in January was not wise and shouldn't happen again. "I would never have thought in a million years that anybody would have thought that it made sense to use in an active shooter drill where teachers are unaware that they're going to be shot with a pellet gun," she said. "That would have never crossed my mind as something we'd need to legislate." The bill has already passed the House, so McNamara said she hopes the Senate can amend the bill to address the issue. "The bill calls for active shooter training but I want to make sure that it's clear ... that being a part of an active shooter drill, we do not need to be that realistic in shooting pellets at our teachers," she added. Seoul's School of Performing Arts graduates include a diversity of outstanding artists, musicians, dancer and actors. Unsplash By Amanda Price If the Me#Too campaign passed by the Seoul School of Performing Arts, it must have taken a cursory glance and kept on moving. If campaigners had been able to look inside the school, they would have demanded answers, but like other 'closed society' institutions, the school's black-out curtains had been pulled tight. When SBS revealed that the principal of Seoul's School of Performing Arts was allegedly exploiting students, the story gained far less attention than it deserved. The Korea Times, however, covered the story and the article can be read here . In a desperate attempt to expose the behavior of the principal and restore the name of the school, senior students from Seoul's School of Performing Arts (SOPA) risked their futures by posting their concerns on YouTube. The intervention should have been staged by adults, but it seems none were available. The video opens with the subtitle, "This video has been made to give voice to the students." The students' performance may be viewed here . The video begins with a senior student asking forgiveness for "staining the school's name," before going on to explain why the students felt compelled to take such drastic action. As can been seen from the video, these were not students with a vendetta, these were students trying to reclaim their dignity and restore the school's honor. Seoul's School of Performing Arts has an outstanding reputation, but even outstanding reputations are not a guarantee of integrity. Photo from School Facebook page On January 27, the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education (SMOE) investigated SOPA and found 18 noticeable issues, six of which were reported to police for official investigation. According to a JTBS report, the education officers were unable to investigate all potential breaches because the principal and the head of administration (the principal's wife), had shredded documents that may have revealed further wrongdoings. Apart from their treatment of students, the principal and his wife were investigated for misappropriating funds, breaching fair employment procedures, breaching student selection procedures, misuse of government subsidies and abuse of privileges and power. While these findings revealed a wide range of corporate misconduct on the part of the principal and his family, the most disturbing revelations were the findings relating to students. The Education Office was able to confirm that SOPA students were called on to perform in at least 10 private functions held by the principal and his wife. Thirty of the 31 students interviewed claimed the performances were mandatory, and students were not advised of who they were performing for or why. At these events, held for businessmen, alumni or friends of the principal and his family, alcohol was freely available despite the presence of minors. In spite of video evidence, the principal has denied accusations that the events were mandatory, or that alcohol was served. It has also been alleged that "scantily clad" young female students were asked to make "sexier and brighter expressions" at male audiences. At a performance at a military base, students claimed they were told to enter the 'enthusiastic' throng of soldiers to hand out gifts, as well as hugs. The principal has denied allegations that the girls were asked to behave in a sexy manner. School records revealed predominantly female students were sent to performances at military bases and all-boys high schools. The principal, who has not been dismissed, has only spoken to deny all accusation. His stance, however, is explained on the school website. According to the website, the school's education is "Christian-centered" and students are exhorted "to be like Christ." A key educational objective is to "bring up performers who acknowledge God, respect people and practice love and compassion", and the goal is to produce "artists who will lead the new Korean Wave." The word 'inconsistencies' is the least of the terms that can be used to compare the lofty overtures of the principal to the findings of the Office of Education. If the students' claims are true, however, the word 'hypocrisy' may be a much better fit. The senior students who released the YouTube video hope their actions will restore the school to a place of honor. Yonhap To the travelers at the train station in Cologne, Germany, they probably seemed like two old friends embracing after a long time apart. But it was actually a long-awaited meeting between strangers -- a two-time cancer survivor finally seeing the bone marrow donor who saved her life. Beth Wilson, 36, an intensive care nurse, was diagnosed 10 years ago with adenocarcinoma in her small intestine. She went through six months of chemotherapy and beat the cancer, but was then diagnosed with leukemia, one of the risks of chemo. Wilson said she believes the chemo was the likely cause. Wilson then sought treatment at Atlanta's Northside Hospital, where doctors suggested a bone marrow transplant as the best way to treat her leukemia. Since Wilson does not have any siblings, and her parents were only a 50% match, she was put on the donor list. Doctors warned that it could take years before a match was found -- but not only did Wilson end up with two potential donors, but they were both 100% matches, which is extremely rare. A German university student was a match Alina Theine, 24, was one of those matches. The resident of Cologne, Germany, had registered as a stem cell donor as part of a registry drive at her university. She said she thought the chances of being matched were slim. The organization that ran the registry drive, DKMS, matches bone marrow donors with recipients all over the world. About six months after registering, Theine was matched with Wilson through the Be the Match Registry. Theine agreed to donate, even though doctors needed her supply directly from the marrow, the more difficult of donation options. She also agreed to be contacted by her recipient once a two-year required waiting period was up. 'What do you say to the woman who saved your life?' Wilson had the transplant in January 2016. After much difficulty -- Wilson had to undergo several rounds of therapy before the marrow accepted her body -- it was a success. Two years later, Wilson decided to contact the donor. She got in touch with DKMS, which gave her Theine's name and email address. "I waited a day or two, because even after two years, what do you say to the woman who saved your life?" Wilson said. Within those two days, Wilson said, Theine also contacted DKMS to ask whether she could contact her recipient. The two women connected through social media, both agreeing that eventually, at some point, they would meet. 'A trip of a lifetime' Wilson's husband, Robert, was the one who made the meeting happen. For Beth's birthday in October 2018, he surprised his wife with a trip to Germany to meet Theine. He had already contacted Theine and asked her to send a video telling his wife the news. "I thought, no, there's a language barrier she didn't understand, (because) he didn't buy airline tickets," Wilson said, but when she realized the trip was real she broke down in tears. "My husband saw I was crying and said, 'Are those happy tears?' and I said 'YES!'" DKMS arranged for the women to meet at the train station in Cologne on March 14, 2019. The emotional connection between them was immediate. "She ran up to me and she was crying and shaking," Wilson said. "It was so sweet." Wilson and her husband spent a week in the country getting to know Theine's family and culture. "It was incredible. It was a trip of a lifetime," Wilson said. Asked why someone should become a bone marrow or stem cell donor, she said, "It's such a small thing you can do to save someone's life." Athens, NY On March 22, 2019, at approximately 2:29 a.m., State Police stopped a vehicle on I-87 in the town of Athens. The driver, 19 year old Samantha M. Segara of Utica, NY, was found to be in possession of about 3 grams of marijuana. The passenger, 24 year old Xzavier T. Ross of Utica, NY, was found to be in possession of just over 3 pounds of marijuana. Ross was taken into custody and was charged with Criminal Possession of Marijuana 2nd degree; a Class D Felony. Segara was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. State Police did not provide a mugshot for Segara. LITTLE FALLS, N.Y. - Over a dozen local restaurants are participating in the first Restaurant Week in Little Falls. Local restaurant owners and residents of Little Falls say this is what the area needs to bring more people into the community. "It generates wonderful business for the community which we desperately need," Frank Cuda, longtime resident of Little Falls said. From family style, to casual dining, and fine dining, Restaurant Week has a little bit of everything for everyone. Restaurant Week is all apart of Think Local, which is an initiative focused on shining a light on locally owned business and showcasing what Little Falls has to offer. "The opportunity to have an investment made to get more people into the community and see the different businesses and things that are here is nothing but good," Niel Rosenbaum, owner of Canal Side Inn said. This event kicked off Wednesday and restaurant owners say since the event started, business has been great. "We've been basically doubling our business over a normal week during Restaurant Week, so we're excited about that," Rosenbaum said. One of the owners of Italian Feast, Steve Munger, says they have had a lot of business too. "It's been real busy, it just helps bring in and promote business," Munger said. "We're a local restaurant, we want to get new people in, give people a chance, give them a deal." Restaurant Week is not just about the local businesses, it's also about the people in the community. "The more I think the local organizations do to sort of promote the area and get people in, you know, we're excited about." Most people in the area, along with the business owners say they'd love to see Restaurant Week happen more often in Little Falls. "Anything that we can do to develop this community and other upstate communities," Cuda said. Michele Burton, the assistant manager of Travelodge, says this event has been a success, thanks to the community. Weve done very well this week," Burton said. "We have a great community and people that dont usually go out, are going out and trying these different places and its really working out well. The restaurants participating in Restaurant Week are Ann Street Deli, Bonita's Sandwich Chef, II Cafe, The Cafe at the Stone Mill, That Little Place on Main, Ed's Pizza Place, Italian Feast, Copper Moose Ale House, Ruggiero's Trattoria, Travelodge, Beardslee Castle, Bella Vista, and Canal Side Inn. A heavy load of tables circa 1900s. By Robert Neff A Korean coolie circa 1900s. In a "one-party state", only one single political party is allowed to form and run a government. This system is also referred to as a one-party system, a single-party system, a single-party state or a de facto one-party state. The Seven Single-Party States Democratic People's Republic of Korea North Korea is a socialist state that follows the Juche and Songun ideologies. The Juche ideology forms the cornerstone of politics and governance, therefore, it provides a complete answer to all questions that may arise in the struggle during national liberation. The country is governed by Kim dynasty which will rule eternally according to the fundamental principles of the ruling party known as the Workers Party of Korea. The state controls all means and factors of production. Politics are led by the Ten Principles of the Establishment of a Monolithic Ideological System. Lao People's Democratic Republic The Lao People's Democratic Republic is a Southeast Asia country governed the Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party (LPRP). The landlocked country is a socialist state that openly endorses communist ideologies. The president is the General Secretary of LPRP while the prime minister heads the government. The leadership of the party is dominated by military personalities. People's Republic of China China is governed by one party known as the Communist Party of China. The country was declared a de facto one-party state with the president as the General Secretary. He chairs Central Military Commission, therefore, he is the paramount leader of the country. The leader has ultimate unquestionable power and authority and uses the peoples democratic dictatorship system. China follows the Leninist principle which advocates for democratic centralism. Republic of Cuba The sole political party existing in Cuba is the Communist Party of Cuba which is the leading force of society and of the state. As a socialist state, Cuba follows the Marxist-Leninist ideologies. The president is elected to office every five years and there is no limit as to the number of times he can vie for the seat. No political party is allowed to hold campaign meetings. Cuba is generally classified as an authoritarian regime. Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic The Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic is a territory in dispute located in North Africa partially controlled by Morocco and the Polisario Front. Polisario is a nationalistic movement aimed at fighting for the independence of Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic and stop the domination of Morocco. Although not a political party per se, it controls the politics of the country, therefore, it is considered as the single legitimate party that represents the Sahrawi people. Socialist Republic of Vietnam The only legal political party in Vietnam is known as the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV). The party centrally controls state organs, the media, and the military. The Vietnamese Fatherland Front party (VFF) exist without many powers because the constitution of Vietnam gives CPV the supremacy under Article 4. The Trong party is authoritatively headed by Nguyen Phu Trong who is also its General Secretary and the Central Military Commission Secretary. State of Eretria In Eritrea, the only political party that can operate is the People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ). Any other political grouping is illegal. However, the 1997 constitution, which remains unimplemented, had granted multiparty politics. The single-party presidential republic has not held elections since independence. Dangers of One-Party States A one-party state has the monopoly of power, is authoritarian, and will sometimes violently suppress a political party that questions its ideologies. A single political party state lacks can sometimes lead to lack of transparency. The leaders may run amok due to lack of opposition leading to runaway spending, corruption, wastage of resources, and abuse of human rights. California is a state in the United States located on the Pacific coast. California has a population of around 37 million people. Californias population is 12% of the entire US population. According to a study done by American Community Survey, 42.6% of people in California above the age of 5 spoke a language other than English at home. California has over 200 languages spoken in the state. English is the most spoken language with Spanish being the second most spoken. In California there are over 100 indigenous languages which make the state one of the most linguistically diverse regions on the globe. Most Widely Spoken Languages in California English is the most used language in California with an estimate of 20,379,282 speakers which translates to 58.8% of Californias population. English became the official language in California after it was passed in 1989 due to the passage of Proposition 63. English is the language of education, business, and commerce as it is understood and spoken by a large population. Spanish or Spanish Creole is the second most spoken language with 10,672,610 people, which is 28.46% of the whole population. Chinese, including Mandarin and Cantonese, has 1,231,425 speakers which are 2.80% of the whole population. Tagalog, a language native to the Philippines, is the most common language spoken in California after Spanish. Tagalog is spoken by an estimated 796,451 residents who constitute 2.20% of the California population. The Vietnamese language is spoken by over 558,932 which is 1.43% of Californias population. San Jose in California has the highest number of Vietnamese speakers in the US and outside of Vietnam. Korean has around 367,523 speakers which make 1.08% of the whole population according to a study carried out in 2007. Armenian is spoken by about 192,980 people who are 0.52% of Californias population. Persian and Iranian have 203,770 speakers in California. The state of California boasts the largest concentrations of Iranians and Persians in the world outside of Iran. This is due to large numbers immigrating from Iran because of civil wars. Japanese speakers consist of 0.43% of Californias population. Southern California hosts the largest Japanese American population making California have the largest Asian American population after Hawaii. Indigenous Languages in California Unfortunately, all indigenous languages in California are facing extinction. However, some efforts have been put in place to enable language revitalization. Some of the native languages of California include Chukchansi, Luiseno, and Yurok. NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan (right) and Second Vice President of the Cambodian NA Khuon Sudary (Photo: VNA) At a reception for Second Vice President of the Cambodian NA Khuon Sudary in Hanoi on March 22nd, NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan said the two sides will work together to supervise the implementation of international treaties and agreements signed by the two governments to help effectively realise their cooperation deals. The legislatures will exchange experience in gender equality-related affairs, including issues regarding female NA deputies, she said, adding that young parliamentarians will also share their expertise in the time ahead. The NA Chairwoman congratulated Cambodia on its successful organisation of the general election in 2018, and the Cambodian NA on its successful hosting of the 27th Annual Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF-27) in Siem Reap in early 2019, contributing to raising the countrys position in the international arena. Ngan suggested that Vietnam and Cambodia should closely coordinate with each other when Vietnam assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship, and Cambodia hosts the 13th Asia-Europe Meeting in 2020. She stressed that the Vietnamese legislature and people are delighted at the great, comprehensive achievements the Cambodian people have reaped over the past years. In reply, Khuon Sudary said Cambodia is making concerted efforts to step up national development to bring prosperity and wealthy to its people. Cambodia always keeps in mind the great support of the Vietnamese people during the past struggle against the Pol Pot genocidal regime, helping the country revive and develop, she said. She described the state visit to Cambodia by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President Nguyen Phu Trong last month as a manifestation of the continuous development of the traditional bilateral ties. The Cambodian NA will pay more attention to and create more favourable conditions for Vietnamese-Cambodians to live in the country and contribute to local socio-economic development, while ensuring their legal status, she said. Both leaders applauded the outcomes of the border demarcation and marker planting, which have completed about 84 percent of the workload. Ngan said the two sides need to make greater efforts to soon fulfill the task. She also urged competent agencies of the two countries to closely coordinate with each other in order to ensure quality and efficiency of the works which are presented by the Vietnamese Party, State and people to the Cambodian NAs Secretariat and committees./. Major South Korean tech companies are struggling with the flight of talented workers, which can seriously undermine their growth potential, industry sources said Saturday. The outflow of key personnel is fueling concerns of technology leaks and dangerous brain drain. Naver Corp., the country's dominant Internet portal and search engine, earlier announced that its chief technology officer (CTO), Song Chang-hyun, will leave the company. Song, who served as the head of Naver Labs -- the research and development arm of the company -- tendered his resignation following CES 2019. Details of his next destination have not yet been released. The engineer had been cited as the one who led Naver's latest achievements and other breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic technologies. Kim Jun-seok, the man behind the development of translation service Papago at Naver Labs, also moved to the AI-focused R&D center AIR Lab at the country's leading automaker Hyundai Motor Co. The country's tech giant Samsung Electronics Co. has also witnessed a number of executives opting to work for rivals, which have been speeding up their hiring of qualified experts, mostly in the AI sector. Rhee In-jong, who led the development of Bixby voice assistant technology, joined Google Inc. in February. He is to lead the U.S. technology giant's Internet of Things (IoT) business. The expert, who also served as a chief technology officer of Samsung's mobile division, played a significant role in developing Samsung's Knox mobile security system and payment service Samsung Pay. Tim Baxter, who led Samsung's American business, meanwhile, retired from his post as president and CEO earlier this year, with his absence expected to be felt going forward. (Yonhap) The Netherlands is a country located in northwestern Europe. The name Netherlands means a low lying country. The North Sea is found to the west and north of the country, Belgium is found to the south, and Germany to the east. The country is generally low-lying and flat with vast expanses of rivers, lakes, and canals. An estimated 2,500 square miles of the nation's territory is comprised of reclaimed land. Land reclamation in the country's interior involves draining lakes and marshes, and along the coastland, the land is also reclaimed from the sea. Reclaimed land is typically turned into polders and surrounded by dikes. The nation's climate is classified as CFD according to the Koeppen-Geiger classification. The classification has warm temperate, humid climate with the warmest months experiencing temperatures below 71.6 degrees Fahrenheit and four or more months with average temperatures over 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Climate The nation's climate is temperate with cool summers, gentle winters, and rainfall in all seasons. The climate is influenced by both the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. The temperate climate offers distinct winter and summer seasons. The influence of the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean results in winters which are typically not too cold and summers that are not usually too hot. It also results in a lot of showers and plenty of moisture in the air. Southerly and Westerly winds occur, and the sea moderates the climate with onshore winds and the Gulf-Stream effect. The location of the country is between a low-pressure region with its center in Iceland and an area of high-pressure air masses with their center in the Azores. The collision of the air masses results typically in the unsettled weather in the country. The climate in the country is mainly uniform due to the countrys small size and flat relief. The country also experiences greater continentality in the country's inland compared to coastal areas, which are windier. Wind experiences little resistance due to the flat nature of a significant part of the nation's landscape. Considerable resistance is experienced due to the hills to the south of the country which significantly lowers the velocity of winds prevalent along the coast. Frost is experienced for an average of 60 days while there is an average of 25 days of clear weather a year. The average day has a sky that is three-fifths clouded. The prevalent cloud cover translates to a relatively low average number of hours of sunshine experienced. The sunniest months are in May and June. Summers in the Netherlands are generally warm with changeable weather periods. Winters are relatively cold and experience occasional snow. Thick fog is also common during the winter. Winds The country's location often means that it experiences strong gales, winds, and uncomfortable weather due to strong Atlantic low-pressure systems, especially in the winter and autumn months. Easterly winds bring continental weather making the nation warm during summer and cold during the winter with temperatures at times dropping to sub-zero temperatures. Weather The nation's weather is to a great extent unpredictable. The summer could have a month that is hot and sunny while the following month could be cool and rainy. It is therefore common to find the Dutch population which is normally cheerful occasionally complaining about the weather. The weather's unpredictability is attributed to its lack of mountains, seaside location, as well as the fact that the country is found on the border between cold and hot weather regions. Depressions that blow in from the sea experience low resistance are therefore not stopped. The nations unpredictable weather can at times make it seem as if it is always raining. Temperatures The nations average temperatures are about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Average daytime temperatures during the winter vary between 35.6 to 42.8 degrees Fahrenheit while average daytime temperatures during the summer vary between 62.6 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures in January average around 35 degrees Fahrenheit while temperatures in July average at about 63 degrees Fahrenheit. The highest temperature recorded was in 1944 with temperatures peaking at 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit. The lowest temperature recorded also occurred in the same year which hit -17.32 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainfall Rainfall in the country is fairly stable during the year. The driest periods are experienced between April and September. The country experiences average rainfall of 31 inches with the highest rainfall experienced in the summer during August. High rainfall is also experienced in the autumn. The least amount of rainfall is experienced during springtime. The nation has an average of 25 dry days in a year. March is by far the driest month in the year. Adaptation to the Country's Climate The nation's mild, damp climate makes it ideal for dairy farming. The limited hours of sunshine, however, limit the growth of crops. The country is quite windy due to its flat landscape which makes it perfect for wind farms. The possibility of extreme weather is low. The possibility of floods and sea storms is however relatively high. The nation experienced devastating floods in 1287, 1421 and 1953 which resulted in the loss of lives. Measures have since been taken to mitigate the events and protect the land as well as the residents from flooding. Some of the measures include the construction of a dike system and pumping stations located throughout the nation. The following statement is being distributed at todays Peoples Vote march in London. Hundreds of thousands are marching in London today to demand a peoples vote on any deal struck on the terms of Britain leaving the European Union (EU), or before a no-deal Brexit is imposed by Prime Minister Theresa May. Only deeply held fears and concerns about Brexits impact could animate such large numbers to protest, as well as the more than three million signatories to the petition demanding Article 50, initiating Brexit, is revoked. A no-deal Brexit could cost 48 billion in lost income in the UK per year or an average of 750 per capita. EU citizens would lose an additional 40 billion in the event of Britain crashing out of the European Union. Behind these averages is a picture of mounting factory closures and job losses. Many demonstrating will also be deeply hostile towards the Little Englander nationalism and anti-immigrant sentiment whipped up by the Conservative right and xenophobes such as the UK Independence Party and Nigel Farages new Brexit Party. None of this alters the fact that a political campaign based on supporting the EU has nothing genuine to offer workers and young people seeking an end to austerity and right-wing reaction. The Peoples Vote campaign is led by right-wing pro-capitalist politicians and parties with a long history of support for social cuts, anti-immigrant measures and militarism. The unindicted war criminals Tony Blair and Alastair Campbell began the anti-working-class policies that have continued under the age of austerity proclaimed by David Cameron and continued by Theresa May. Michael Heseltine, Oliver Letwin and other pro-Remain Tories all agree with their Brexiteer colleagues that these attacks must be stepped up to ensure British imperialisms ability to compete against its rivals. They only want this to be from within and not outside a European trade bloc. Selling the lie that these scoundrels represent sanity and progress depends above all on their deliberate silence about the reality of social and political relations inside the EU itself. The Brexit vote in 2016 was won, not because of endemic racism among workers but because the Leave campaign exploited legitimate hostility to the EU for the savage austerity it imposed in Greece, Spain, Portugal and throughout the continent. If the EU was the social paradise portrayed by its defenders, then the Brexiteers appeal to nationalism would have fallen on deaf ears. Europe today is in the grip of austerity no less savage than in the UK. Officially, 118 million (23.5 percent) of the EU population are at risk of poverty or social exclusion, with 43 million unable to afford a quality meal every second day. Italy has the most people at risk of poverty in Europe (18 million), with over 4 million in absolute poverty. For children below the age of 18, a staggering 27 percent, or 26 million people across Europe face social deprivation. The Social Europe think tank states that these figures are a massive underestimation, with almost 142 million Europeans at risk of poverty based upon a poverty line of just 10,000 per year. The anti-refugee policies of Fortress Europe have claimed over 34,000 lives in the Mediterranean, with EU member states building over 1,000 kilometres of border walls since 1989equivalent to six Berlin Walls. There are only two million refugees in Europe out of a population of 500 million. Yet the EU is busy building razor wire barriers, concentration camps and deploying an additional 10,000 armed-guards to keep out or deport anyone who makes it to the continent. Everywhere, the far-right is the political beneficiary of the pro-austerity and anti-immigrant agenda championed by Europes mainstream parties. The far-right is either in government or a major opposition tendency in Austria, Italy, Hungary, Poland, Switzerland, Sweden and Finland. In Germany, neo-Nazis sit in the Bundestagas the main opposition partyfor the first time since 1945. A recent poll suggest that far-right parties will likely double their representation in the European elections. The answer of the EU to rising social and political discontent is to double down on austerity while stepping up state repression. Many on todays demonstration will know of the governments intention to implement Operation Yellowhammer on Monday, including the deployment of thousands of troops to deal with social unrest and strikes in the event of a no-deal Brexit. But events across the Channel prove that the turn to police state measures is not conditional on Brexit but is bound up with the acute social polarisation between a super-rich oligarchy and the mass of working people. Today, President Macron is deploying the army on the streets of France against Yellow Vest anti-austerity protests, for the first time in half a century. An Interior Ministry source told Le Parisien that everyone should get used to the idea of the security forces wounding people, or worse, even if there end up being some quadriplegics. Brexit is the product of the descent of British, European and world capitalism ever deeper into crisis. As in the first half of the 20th century, the conflict between the major imperialist powers can no longer be contained by international agreementsheralding a sharp descent into trade war and raising the danger of armed conflict. It is this global shift that has brought an end to the project of the peaceful integration of the European continent, raising tensions between Europe and the US and the UK, Germany, France, Italy and other major European powers to the breaking point. The greatest political danger is that Brexit is being deliberately used by the ruling class and its media to drive a wedge deep into the working class, subordinating workers to contending right-wing capitalist factions and preventing the necessary unified struggle against the common class enemy. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) calls for a conscious political rejection of such well-practiced attempts to divide-and-conquer. But this can only be done by repudiating any and all perspectives based upon capitalism and taking up the struggle for socialism. Workers and young people must adopt the methods of class struggle against all factions of the British ruling elite and all its parties. Far from trusting their fate to Merkel, Macron, Juncker and Tusk, they must ally themselves with the European working class now waging political and social battles against the EU and its member state governments. The perspective must be: Neither Leave nor Remain, but the struggle to replace a capitalist Europe of austerity, militarism and war with a United Socialist States of Europe based on production for social need and not private profit. Such a unified class offensive cannot be mounted under the leadership of the Labour Party and the trade unions. Indeed, the only constant feature of Jeremy Corbyns gyrations on Brexit is his refusal to fight for the independent interests of the working class. Corbyn refuses to break with Blair, Tom Watson and their right-wing ilk, offering by turns an alternative soft-Brexit plan, with possible backing for a second referendum, depending on what big business and the City of London ultimately determines is the best course of action. Should the present crisis bring Labour to power, Corbyn would continue to heed the voice of his political masters. A party of a new type is required, a socialist and internationalist party that conducts the struggle against globally organised capital by mobilising the most powerful social force on the planetthe international working class. The SEP, British section of the International Committee of the Fourth International, and our sister parties in Germany, France and throughout the world offer a new road of revolutionary struggle for the most politically thoughtful workers and youth. On Sunday afternoon, March 17, police in Fall River responded to a report of vandalism at the Hebrew cemetery on McMahon Street in the southeastern Massachusetts city. The discovery was made by a cemetery maintenance worker. It is believed the vandalism occurred either late Saturday night or early Sunday morning. Police originally reported that approximately 25 gravestones were defaced. But following a row-by-row examination of the cemetery on Tuesday, they announced on Wednesday that 59 gravestones had been defaced with anti-Semitic language and swastikas. Some had also been toppled over. Gravestones were defaced with black magic marker. In addition to swastikas, anti-Semitic phrases included Heil Hitler, Expel the Jews and Oy vey! This is MAGA country, a reference to President Donald Trumps 2016 campaign slogan, Make America Great Again. According to the Fall River-based Herald News, the phrase The Day of the Rope was written on at least two gravestones. This appears to refer to a book of fiction about a white nationalist uprising against the United States government. Defaced graves in Fall River, MA (Fall River Police Dept) The anti-Semitic incident in Fall River took place just days after the March 15 fascist terror attack on two Muslim mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, which left 50 dead. It also occurred less than six months after the October 27, 2018 mass shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue that killed 11. The Fall River attack, while claiming no lives, was inspired by the same white nationalist, fascistic views propounded by the Trump administration and right-wing governments in France, Italy, Brazil and elsewhere. These ideologies are openly promoted to incite violence against immigrants and others. In the wake of the New Zealand atrocity, President Trump was asked by a reporter whether he saw white nationalism as a rising threat around the world. He responded. I dont really. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems. If you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. The facts tell another story, however. The shooter, Australian citizen Brenton Tarrant, hailed Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity. His lengthy manifesto called for violence and civil war to force non-European invaders from Europe, the US, Australia and New Zealand. Tarrant was in fact part of an international network of far-right organizations and had been radicalized in Europe, including in Britain. In the days following the Christchurch massacre, a number of far-right attacks on Muslims have taken place in the UK, pointing to the example provided by the horrific event in New Zealand to those inspired by white supremacist and Islamophobic views. In Fall River, the Jewish community has long history. During the 19th century, the city was famous as the leading textile manufacturing center the US. It has always been a city attracting immigrants, many working in the textile mills or providing services supporting the industry. Spindle City, as it was known, was second in the world in textile manufacturing only to Manchester, England. Thousands of workers, mainly of Irish and French-Canadian descent, came to Fall River in the 1860s and 1870s to work in the mills. German Jewish settlers came to Fall River beginning in this same period; Russian Jewish immigrants arrived in the 1880s and 1890s. While World War I provided a general increase in demand for textiles, many mills in Fall River subsequently shut down as a result of the Great Depression, and by the mid-20th century the city was no longer a textile center. The city shrank in population from a high of about 120,000 in the 1920s to about 88,930 today. The Hebrew Cemetery in Fall River is among the oldest Jewish cemeteries in the state, having been established in the late 19th century. Many of the German and Russian Jewish settlers who immigrated to the US in that period are likely buried there. Fall River is still a city of many ethnicities. About half of residents are Luso-American, having their origins somewhere in the former Portuguese Empire. Recent immigrants include those from Cambodia and India. The Jewish population is now under 1,000, down from about 4,000 in 2008, as people have left to seek other livelihoods. Friends and family of those interred at the 300-plot cemetery in Fall River came Wednesday to survey the anti-Semitic vandalism and the check on whether the headstone of one of their loved ones had been damaged. The Herald News reported on Louis Gitlan, who walked through the graveyard row by row with a list of names, taking an occasional photo of a headstone. Seven of his relatives are buried there. The Herald News wrote: Gazing at the headstone of a man who died in 1939, he said every person buried in the Hebrew cemetery faced persecution at one time or had family members who did. Referring to those who had fled Nazi persecution, he told the newspaper, What did they go through to get to this place, and finally be free? Then realize that they cant escape it. Even in death, they have been slandered by anti-Semitic filth. According to the Anti-Defamation League, there were 90 anti-Jewish hate crimes reported in Massachusetts in 2017, a nearly 50 percent increase compared to 2016. Ford plans to cut 5,000 jobs at its plants in Germany. Management announced its plans in a letter sent to the companys workforce on March 15. It has been known since September 2018 that the company was planning to carry out mass lay-offs and shutter plants in Europe. The IG Metall trade union and works councils at Fords German plants support the plan in principle and are attempting to divide and demoralise the workers in order to block the development of any organized opposition. The mass lay-offs are a component of Fords global onslaught on jobs known as the Fitness Programme, which aims to eliminate 25,000 jobs around the world. Ford intends to save $14 billion with the measures in order to double its profit margin and boost share dividend payouts for investors. Last year alone, the company paid out $2.3 billion in dividends. In Europe and Russia, where Ford employs around 52,000 workers, the company is seeking to compensate for the impact of Brexit and the diesel emission scandal by substantially reducing its operations. With regard to the transition to electric vehicles, Ford is pushing ahead with plans to cooperate with VW, while it cuts jobs to save costs where possible. Fords French Blanquefort plant near Bordeaux is scheduled to close in August with the loss of 850 jobs, and 1,600 jobs are threatened, including one of three shifts, at the German plant in Saarlouis. In Russia, the Vsevoloshsk and Nabareshnyje Tchelny plants are under threat of being shuttered, with the loss of 3,000 jobs, and production is also being cut back at the Valencia and Dagenham plants in Spain and Britain. In the March 15 letter, head of Fords operations in Germany, Gunnar Hermann, and business manager Rainer Ludwig demanded at least 500 million in structural cost savings, which is to be achieved through a consolidation of all organisational structures. This includes lay-offs in Germany of more than 5,000 (including short-term contractors). In addition to Fords Cologne plant, which taken together with the research centre in Aachen employs 18,000 workers, Ford Germany also includes the Saarlouis facility with 6,000 jobs. Management is already calling into question the employment guarantees provided to these facilities, which were supposed to run until 2022. Hermann told public broadcaster Saarlandische Rundfunk in December that Brexit has changed everything, stating, You cant rely on contracts any more. We cant do anything about Brexit taking place. How are the IG Metall union and works councils now responding to the renewed declarations of war from the companys board? A revealing interview providing an answer to this question was published by the Kolner Stadt-Anzeiger on January 22 with Martin Hennig, chairman of the joint works council at Ford. I expect a large number of job cuts, he said. When it comes to job cuts, Cologne will certainly be hit the hardest. Asked if he thought the measures were appropriate, the works council chairman answered that he felt it is correct in principle to subject everything to review and deal with the issues that are affecting the entire auto sector. The works council leader speaks like a top manager. He repeatedly makes clear that he considers himself part of company management, thinking and acting in terms of Fords profit margin. In an earlier interview given to the Kolnische Rundschau last summer, he noted (of course in the we form), In Europe, we live on small and medium-sized cars. They run well, and we make good money with them. But nothing is left from the profits. So we have to take a look at costs. This is top managements most important task ... If we have control over costs, then the European business can contribute to Fords profits. Hennig responded to the job cuts by seeking to place the blame on suppliers and sub-contractors. He told the Kolner Stadt-Anzeiger, The overall total of external contracts in Europe amounts to 11 billion. I get the impression that the European headquarters isnt even aware of this figure. If they want support from us in the current situation, company management has to deal with this. Hennig was merely formulating IG Metalls official policy, which generally refuses to defend contract workers, sub-contractors, and the workers at parts suppliers, thus driving a wedge between them and Ford employees. Ford has thousands of short-term contract workers in Cologne and Saarlouis whose contracts have either already expired or will do so in June. Although contract workers pay union dues to IG Metall, the union and works council accepts lower pay and poorer working conditions for them, and are supporting them being laid off. IG Metall also encourages divisions between plants, countries, and continents. Saarlouis works council chairman Markus Thal notes at every opportunity that IG Metall will protect German jobs (with the emphasis on German, and not French, Romanian, or American jobs). And in Cologne, Hennig rails against the advantages enjoyed by the US owner. He told the Kolner Stadt-Anzeiger that in the US, Ford obtains better terms from global suppliers as we do in Europe as a subsidiary, and can thus achieve a higher rate of profit ... This is hard to comprehend and unfair. This was the same policy used by IG Metall five years ago to play one location off against another as Fords plant in Belgium was shuttered virtually simultaneously with VWs Bochum plant. The reality is that Ford Motor Company attacks its workforce just as brutally in the United States as it does in Europe or Latin America. In Brazil, Ford is closing an entire plant in Sao Paolo and withdrawing from truck production in Latin America. At the same time, Ford is eliminating 1,000 production jobs at its Flat Rock plant in Michigan. It is being supported in this by the United Auto Workers, IG Metalls US counterpart. These examples underscore that Ford workers can only defend their jobs if they organise themselves independently of the unions and take the struggle into their own hands, uniting with their brothers and sisters around the world. Autoworkers and parts workers in the supplier industry face the threat of a global jobs massacre. In North America, General Motors is currently closing five plants with the loss of 15,000 jobs, while in Germany, Opel, Audi, and VW are also laying off workers. Things are similar for workers in the parts industry, such as for workers at Bosch. Ford workers must form rank-and-file action committees to organise the defence of jobs and initiate contact with their colleagues at other Ford plants and other sections of the working class. The working class is a powerful social force, with around 800,000 workers in Germany alone employed in the auto industry. But under capitalism, every progressive development is being turned against them. Even tremendous technological advanceselectric vehicles, self-driving cars, and artificial intelligencedo nothing to improve the lives of workers, but are merely used to increase exploitation, intensify surveillance and accelerate rearmament. A socialist programme is required, which aims at confiscating the vast wealth of the banks and super-rich, placing it under workers control, and deploying it for the benefit of humanity as a whole. This is what the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (SGP) and its sister parties in the International Committee of the Fourth International fight for. The SGP is standing in the European elections to call for workers governments and the United Socialist States of Europe. The World Socialist Web Site and WSWS Autoworker Newsletter calls on all workers wishing to take part in this principled campaign in defence of jobs to contact us. Sign up for the WSWS Daily Newsletter Yesterday, the governor of the Paris military district told France Info that soldiers of the Operation Sentinel counter-terror mission had been authorized to fire today on the yellow vests. Asked about whether soldiers were capable of carrying out law enforcement duties, General Bruno Le Ray replied: Our orders are sufficiently clear that we do not need to be worried at all. The soldiers rules of engagement will be fixed very rigorously. They will have different means for action faced with all types of threats, he continued. That can go as far as opening fire. Le Ray added that soldiers will have the same rules of engagement for shooting protesters as those for gunning down terrorism suspects inside France: They will deliver warnings. This has happened in the past, as in (attacks at) the Louvre or at Orly. They are perfectly able to assess the nature of the threat and to respond proportionally. These threats against a protest movement against social inequality that is largely peaceful must be taken as a warning by workers and youth not only in France but internationally. As mass protests and strikes erupting outside the control of the union bureaucracies spread across the world, the military and security agencies of the financial aristocracy are preparing to carry out ruthless repression. Even in countries like France with long bourgeois-democratic traditions, they are rapidly moving towards military-police dictatorship. Since the imposition of a state of emergency suspending basic democratic rights after the 2015 Paris attacks, the armys Operation Sentinel has sent squads of soldiers marching in Frances streets, wearing bulletproof vests and carrying assault rifles. The current crisis vindicates the WSWSs longstanding warnings. In every country, the ruling class has used the war on terror as a pretext to reinforce state repression that is aimed above all at opposition in the working class. Amid yesterdays European Union summit in Brussels, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to downplay the significance of sending the army against the yellow vests. The army is in no way responsible for maintaining order and public order, he claimed, mocking criticisms of his resort to the army as a false debate fueled by those who play at scaring themselves and others. French Defense Minister Florence Parly followed Le Ray onto France Info and also trivialized the decision to send troops to police the protests. Without explicitly contradicting Le Rays report on the orders given to Operation Sentinel forces, she said: The soldiers of the French army never fire on protesters. All those who play around with fantasies, who speak about opening fire, are only sowing confusion. It is impossible to know in advance whether or how many lives will be lost during army operations against the yellow vests today. But the soporific and historically inaccurate statements of Macron and Parly are being openly contradicted by certain soldiers, who are violating military discipline to tell the media about their anger and concern at the orders they are receiving. We have no business interfering in this yellow vest business, one soldier anonymously told France Info. We do not have the necessary equipment, we just have truncheons and little pepper spray bottles like what girls have in their purses. After that, the next thing we have is our assault rifles. So, if we go up against too many protesters, unfortunately we will probably see fatalities. Another soldier stressed his anger at receiving orders from Macron to target the French people: It is absurd, its arbitrary. We are not prepared for this. In technical terms, we fight military enemies. And the enemy cannot be the entire population, that is not possible. That is the situation they are trying to put soldiers in today. General Vincent Desportes, the former head of the War Academy, made clear his skepticism about claims from within the Macron government that riot police will always manage to get between protesters and the soldiers, to ensure that the latter do not fire on the former. He said, Until now the security forces have not shown themselves entirely capable of controlling large crowds of protesters. If violent protesters come into contact with the soldiers, there is a serious risk that blood will be spilt. The last time soldiers were used for law enforcement was in Algeria, more than 50 years ago. As you well know, at that point blood was spent, a lot of blood was spent. The result of the last intervention of the army against workers on what is currently French soil, in the insurrectionary strikes of 1947-8 against the bourgeois Republic established by the Gaullists and Stalinists after World War II and the fall of European fascism, was a massacre. As 350,000 miners went on strike, the army occupied the mines with an authorization to fire on the strikers. The resulting clashes led to six dead, thousands of wounded, and the firing of 3,000 miners, a decision legally recognized as discriminatory in 2011. In Algeria, the use of the army to torture and kill Algerians rising up against French colonialism, barely more than a decade after these same methods were used in France itself by the Nazis and the Nazi-collaborationist Vichy regime, left over 300,000 dead in the 1954-1962 war. These historical events are a warning as to the implications of mobilizing the army against the working class. They vindicate the strategy proposed by the Parti de legalite socialiste (PES) amid the yellow vest movement. Amid widespread hostility of workers internationally against the union bureaucracies and established political parties, the PES called for building independent committees of action and stressed the necessity of transferring state power in France and across Europe to such organizations of the working class. This also requires building the PES as the political alternative to the petty bourgeois political parties, rejected by a broad majority of yellow vests. These parties try to tie the workers to Macron by proposing to negotiate a democratization of society with him and the trade unions. Many of these partiesincluding the French Communist Party, the New Anticapitalist Party, the Greens, Jean-Luc Melenchons Unsubmissive France, and the Independent Democratic Workers Partycame together yesterday to issue a pathetic united appeal to Macron. Criticizing the governments authoritarian excesses, they begged Macron to cease ignoring them and negotiate more with them to try to calm the situation: The sidelining of the social, ecological and trade union movements, contempt for those who speak truth to power, is a way of preventing all dialog, all positive outcomes to the crises of our time. The calming of tensions we desire also requires the state power to respond concretely to the aspirations for social justice that are widely expressed in our country. But there is nothing to negotiate with Macron. By sending the army against the yellow vests, he is sending a clear signal that the financial aristocracy and the state authorities have no intention of realizing the social aspirations of the working class. They want to crush these aspirations, and if necessary to drown them in blood. The current crisis exposes the utter bankruptcy of their strategy of tying the workers to capitalist politicians and the capitalist state. During the 2017 election, all these parties adapted themselves to the official propaganda presenting Macron as a lesser evil than neo-fascist candidate Marine Le Pen. Now that Macron has declared his admiration for fascist dictator Philippe Petain and sent the army against the yellow vests, this propaganda is exposed as an utter fraud. Faced with Macrons historic threat against the workers, the turn is to the construction of independent organizations of the working class and of sections of the International Committee of the Fourth International as their revolutionary vanguard. Several Indiana teachers in the city of Monticello were recently shot execution style with plastic pellets in an active school shooting drill, provoking widespread outrage. The drill was conducted in January by the local sheriffs office in partnership with the school district. The violence meted out against these educators by law enforcement officials took place in the midst of a wave of mass strikes by teachers across the United States and internationally. The Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA), the teachers union that covers more than 40,000 Indiana teachers, posted a Twitter statement earlier this week noting, During active shooter drill, four teachers at a time were taken into a room, told to crouch down and were shot execution style with some sort of projectilesresulting in injuries to the extent that welts appeared, and blood was drawn. The ISTA statement added, The teachers were terrified, but were told not to tell anyone what happened. Teachers waiting outside that heard the screaming were brought into the room four at a time and the shooting process was repeated. The shooting drill took place at Meadowlawn Elementary, which is part of the Twin Lakes School Corporation located in White County, Indiana. The drill was part of a so-called ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) training procedure developed by a private security company. Schools across the country have increasingly become militarized since the Columbine high school massacre in Colorado in 1999, partnering with the political establishment, law enforcement agencies and private security companies. The training protocol for ALICE was developed by security consultant Greg Crane, a former SWAT police officer who entered the education security business to profit from the fear and anxiety over school shootings. ALICE training methods call for students and teachers to fight back against shooters. Cranes company has aggressively pushed for the adoption of such safety training methods by more than 300 schools and universities. Psychologist Dr. Stephen Brock of the National Association of School Psychologists has been a vocal critic of such methods, which he says have not been tested and will instead cause unnecessary anxiety and trauma for educators and students. He deemed the training a potentially dangerous overreaction unsupported by any research which may actually increase danger in the event of an actual shooting. Two elementary school teachers from Monticello testified on Wednesday in front of state lawmakers at the Indiana state Capitol building about the horrific incident. The teachers, who did not want to be named for fear of retaliation, told the Indianapolis Star that law enforcement officials had them kneel against their classroom wall before being shot with the plastic pellets on their back without any warning. One of the teachers said, They told us, this is what happens if you cower and do nothing. She added, They shot all of us across our backs. I was hit four times. It hurt so bad. Another teacher spoke to the New York Times on Friday stating that in addition to execution-style drills the law enforcement trainers fired pellets during multiple training exercises. She was told by the trainers to try to not get hit. White County Sheriff Bill Brooks deflected blame for the incident and said the teachers had agreed to the training. They all knew they could be [shot], he told the Star. Its a shooting exercise. However, teachers were not given any warning that they would be shot, let alone by plastic pellets, and none of them were asked about their medical histories prior to being subjected to physical violence. One teacher was hurt so badly she had bruises, welts and bloody cuts that took two weeks to heal. Speaking of the frightful experience, the teacher added, You dont know who you are shooting and what types of experience those individuals had in the past, whether they had PTSD or anything else. And we didnt know what we were going into. Workers across the country spoke out on social media against the violent drill and psychological abuse by law enforcement officials. Mock executions are literally torture, Leo said on Twitter. Can you imagine what was going through their minds when they heard the gunshots, felt projectiles hit the back of their heads, and started actually bleeding? Anyone would assume that something had gone wrong and they had been shot. I dont think giving your teachers PTSD helps anything, another person commented on Twitter. Another added, What was done to the teachers was criminal assault. It will cause PTSD in some of those teachers and for what? How does pretending to execute teachers make the school safer? HOW? The United States has gone completely batshit crazy! This is psychological abuse and should NEVER happen without preliminary warning and consent given to participate, Jolie noted. We should not be torturing people and putting them through a scenario where they are being fake-shot or being put through the pain of being shot, Jane, an Indiana teacher, told the WSWS. To inflict bodily harm upon anybodya teacher, a student or anybodyis not fair. There should have been a waiver for people signing off before they were physically harmed. We all understand what it means to be shot, or to be killed. Teachers should not be put through the physical violence of this sort. Speaking about recent efforts by lawmakers calling for educators to be armed in the classroom in response to school shootings, Jane added, I dont think we should be carrying guns in our classroom either. On Wednesday, ISTA lobbied in favor of House Bill 1004, which purports to make changes to the Indiana safe schools grants program. According to the union HB 1004 would provide funding for mental health and social and emotional services to students at schools. Referring to their lobbying efforts, the union bragged on Facebook, This is an example of what ISTA does. We speak out for our members and advocate for you at the Statehouse. In fact, ISTA has done little to defend teachers from the violence of such training drills or to protect and defend teachers, students and public education at large. The union has collaborated with Democrats and Republicans to keep teacher pay low and education funding at one of the lowest levels across the country. Teachers in Indiana rallied against low pay and against attacks on public education earlier in March, with many calling for strikes and walkouts which the union has vocally opposed. One worker, Mel, noted the hypocrisy of ISTA on Facebook, Youre doing a pathetically lame job. Instead of just quibbling with the government asking them to please, pretty please, maybe not allow teachers to be shot by out-of-control law enforcement under the guise of training, you should have made national news of this incident the day it happened, and filed a lawsuit on behalf of the teachers. And demand that the people who did the shooting be held criminally responsible. The increasingly regular eruption of incidents of mass violence in the United States is above all a reflection of immense social tensions and a society that has become increasingly militarized. The US is a cauldron of unprecedented social inequality produced by capitalism while the entire political establishment has prosecuted endless militarism and wars for more than two decades. It is impossible to separate incidents of mass violence from its deeper causes. Homicidal acts of violence by individuals from the Columbine shooting to the Parkland massacre last year are above all a reflection of their deep alienation from a society that brutalizes millions every single day. Millions have been killed by US foreign policy abroad and by increasing poverty, drug addiction, rising suicide rates, police killings and workplace deaths at home. The response of the political establishment to school shootings is to further militarize every aspect of life, including schools. The growth of school shootings has spurred on the development of a multi-billion dollar private security industry. According to a report by IHS Markit, the security industry in education produced more than $2.7 billion in revenue in 2017. Many students will find that their school has a police officer on duty but no counselor or nurse. Schools are increasingly under various forms of surveillance, from 20 percent of schools being surveilled in 1999 to more than 70 percent since 2013. Private companies are also being deployed to spy on students social media, according to reports by the ACLU. Just in time for the Leipzig Book Fair, Mehring Verlag has published a new German edition of The Heritage We Defend by David North. It is available for purchase online here (English-language version here). The first edition, published in 1988, has been expanded with a new preface as well as an extensive glossary and photo section. The new edition is now available as a bound hardcover. North will introduce the book today at the Leipzig Book Fair at 3:00 p.m. in Hall 5, Forum Sachbuch F401/G410. The German edition of The Heritage We Defend North is the chairman of the Socialist Equality Party (SEP) in the US and chairman of the International Editorial Board of the World Socialist Web Site. He has played a leading role in the world Trotskyist movement for over 45 years and has authored numerous books on politics, history and Marxist theory. The Heritage We Defend provides a comprehensive account of the history of the Fourth International. It is not only of historical interest, but also of immense contemporary political relevance. It deals with problems of the theory, programme and the strategy of Marxism, which are of vital importance for the construction of the world party of socialist revolution today. At a time when global capitalism confronts a deepening crisis, the imperialist powers are preparing for a new world war, fascist groups are raising their heads, and class struggle is developing throughout the world, a thorough knowledge of the historical experiences of the workers movement is urgent. These experiences find their most conscious expression in the history of the Fourth International. The Heritage We Defend originated in response to the betrayal of Trotskyism by the Workers Revolutionary Party (WRP), which had long played a leading role in the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) as its British section, and with which the ICFI broke in 1985-86. In the struggle against the WRP, the ICFI reaffirmed its continuity with the entire history of the Fourth International and the struggles it had waged against Stalinism, bourgeois nationalism and petty-bourgeois opportunism. The split with the WRP prepared the ICFI for capitalist restoration in Eastern Europe, the Soviet Union and in China, which began only a year after the publication of The Heritage We Defend. It is remarkable with what clarity and precision North uncovered the political factors and objective contradictions that would later lead to the dissolution of the Soviet Union. As an introduction to the history of the Fourth International, The Heritage We Defend is unsurpassed. The present crisis of capitalism and the intensification of the class struggle make the book a must-read for anyone looking to understand the theory and practice of Marxism. Mehring Verlag will also feature the book Why are They Back? Historical Falsification, Political Conspiracy and the Return of Fascism in Germany, by Christoph Vandreier at this years Leipzig Book Fair. In it, Vandreier, the deputy chairman of the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party), analyses the sharp changes in politics, the state apparatus and intellectual life that made possible the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and a revival of fascism seven decades after the fall of the Third Reich. On Saturday evening at 8:00 p.m. there will be a major event hosted by Mehring Verlag entitled The Lessons of the 1930s and the Fight Against the Extreme Right, at which both Vandreier and North will speak. The meeting will be held in the Leipziger Baumwollspinnerei, Hall 18, Spinnereistrasse 7, 04179 Leipzig. * * * The Heritage We Defend and Why are They Back? are available in English from mehring.com and mehringbooks.co.uk. For the last two weeks, members of the Socialist Equality Party (SGP) and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality have been speaking with workers and young people throughout Leipzig about todays public meeting, Lessons of the 1930s and the fight against the extreme right. The speakers will be WSWS Editorial Board Chairman David North and the SGP assistant national chairperson Christoph Vandreier, the author of Why are They Back? The book, published by Merhing Verlag, was presented today at the Leipzig Book Fair. Christopher Khamis, one of the SGPs eleven candidates for the European elections, and a student at the University of Leipzig, said, We have put up around 3,000 posters and handed out 120,000 leaflets around the city, including at this weeks Leipzig Book Fair. We have been talking with students and workers and intellectuals at the university about how, since 2014, there has been an intensive turn towards militarism by the German ruling class, and that this is what is behind the promotion of fascist forces and attempts to justify the crimes of the Nazis at German universities. Christopher speaking with student in west Leipzig The initial reaction among people is often of shock, he said, and people ask us how this is possible, especially in Germany. There is great opposition and many people have supported the fight we are carrying out. It is terrifying that such things can be said today without the authorities and the established parties standing up and saying something against it, a student at the HTWK university in southern Leipzig told Khamis after hearing the statements of Humboldt University professor Jorg Baberowski relativizing the crimes of the Nazis. Im seriously asking myself why. Pascal, 30, spoke to SGP campaigners in western Leipzig. He has worked as an aged care nurse for the past eight years. He said he is extremely concerned about the growth of the far right in Germany. I have read about it in school and I see more and more it is like in the past, he said. There are parallels and maybe the danger is [that] we dont see them. I think its the capitalists, the people up top, who are doing this. They want us to fight each other. For the people below it is easy to think that we are too far below and have no power against it. But I dont think that is true. We are the majority. Pascal said the conditions in his work had greatly deteriorated since he began. All the employees are frustrated about the pressure, he said. We get too little money and too much work. We are scheduled for 18 days without a break. Its horrific for the patients and the employees. I get about 15 Euros per hour. Over 8 years it has gotten worse and worse. When I started we had no temporary workers. Now its the norm. These people we are caring for have worked their whole lives and they should have earned respect, but they get none. It makes me sad when I go there. Yesterday, Khamis and IYSSE members went to an Amazon distribution center and spoke with workers about why the working class is confronted with the fight against fascism, militarism and war. Against the promotion of nationalism by the ruling class, the campaigners raised the need for the working to unify its struggles internationally against giant global corporations like Amazon. The campaign team was met with a warm response by workers who spoke against the growth of nationalism in Europe. Christopher speaking with an Amazon worker Outside the Leipzig Book Fair, an SGP campaign team spoke with Alina a 24-year-old nurse, and her boyfriend Tim, who came to the book fair from northern Germany. I'm extremely disappointed that this is coming through again, Alina said. We have people still who were there under fascism. In school we are taught what happened. Its a big theme in school. When asked what she thought about the official parties, Alina said that sometimes I have the feeling its not important which party you vote for. Theyre all the same. Its not right or left, its just about them getting the money. She added that the political establishment seeks to promote anger in the working class against immigrants as a diversion. Racism is being promoted everywhere, she said. Look in America. The American people are not originally from there. I think it is so stupid that Trump talks about how we are the ones living here and born here, to say that everyone else who is coming is invading. Here they are telling people that the people from Turkey or Syria are taking our jobs, she said. I dont think thats right. I dont believe it. In Europe actually, in Spain, in Italy, in Germany, the people here are not really originally from there; they are from all over. But some people might believe it. And I think when they are having problems with their jobs and losing them that some might believe it. Alina spoke at length about the conditions in her hospital. She works in a rural area in northern Germany. The stress is immense, she said, and all that is holding us together is teamwork. Sometimes we have bad days where you have two nurses with 40 people. In my department these patients are helpless. You have to wash them and help them turn so they dont get wounds. Some are incontinent. With two nurses and 40 patients its not possible. The higher-ups are not interested. Were going under actually. Nursing is not what it was, she said. Its all about money. Get as many operations as you can and get people outthats the point now actually, because thats more money it brings to them. Im extremely disappointed where medicine is about a human being. Here you have capitalism growing through and through everywhere. SGP campaigners spoke with Alina and her boyfriend about the need for the working class to have a socialist perspective to unite internationally on common class interests and provide a means to fight against inequality, unemployment and war. They explained that a fight by the working class was needed. Alina said that in her workplace it was not the managers who organize the hospital, but the health workers, and that they can only maintain it despite the mismanagement of the directors through teamwork. Both Alina and Tim also raised questions about whether socialism could be realizable in practice and expressed interest in attending the SGP meeting. Mark, 21, is working as a waiter in Leipzig. His family moved to Germany from the Czech Republic when he was four. He told SGP campaigners outside Leipzig university he was angered by the growth of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), which he said was only able to win support because of the right-wing policies of the major parties. I think people only vote for the AfD because all the other parties lie, he said. They try to show the other big parties that theyre not the only ones who will stay, and they cant just keep lying to stay in power. It is like Trump in the United States. Even if what he proposed was bad, he was proposing a change. And nothing changes at the moment. Nothing works anymore. We protest and nothing happens. We work so much and get less and less. Then they say maybe you get one euro more per hour and it takes so long before you get it that it doesnt help. Mark described the conditions for young workers in the hospitality industry, which makes up an increasingly large portion of the jobs available for youth. Ive been working as a waiter for two years, he said. I get 13 euros per hour, and others get nine. You couldnt live without tips. I pay half of my wages per month in taxes. But when I retire, I will only get 300 euros a month back. How can an old man or old woman live on that money? Before the German people had to work until they were 65 and now it is 68. Who can work as a waiter to that point? The special counsel Robert Mueller delivered a report late Friday to Attorney General William Barr bringing to a conclusion a 22-month investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US elections. No details of the content of the report have yet been made public. Barr notified the leaders and ranking members of the House and Senate Judiciary committees, Democrats Jerrold Nadler and Dianne Feinstein, and Republicans Lindsey Graham and Doug Collins, in an official Department of Justice letter. Barr wrote that he is reviewing the confidential report and may be in a position to advise you of the Special Counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend. Under the terms of the Special Counsel regulations, the Attorney General is required to notify Congress of any proposed action in Muellers report that he has vetoed because it is so inappropriate or unwarranted under established Departmental practices that it should not be pursued. Barr wrote that there are no such instances in the Special Counsels investigation. The Special Counsel law also gives Attorney General Barr discretion in determining how much of the report will be shared with Congress and the public. He wrote that he is committed to as much transparency as possible and that this determination will be made in the course of his review. Shortly after Mueller made his submission, NBC News reported that an unnamed senior justice department official confirmed that there are no sealed or further criminal indictments coming out of the probe. This means that no one in the Trump campaign has or will be charged with carrying out any criminal act in conjunction with Russia. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) rejected claims that no further indictments would be forthcoming, saying to CNN he would call Mueller before a House panel for questions, indicating that the internecine conflict between different factions of the ruling establishment is not over. Throughout the entirety of the Mueller probe, the Democratic Party has engaged in an unending McCarthy-style campaign of unsubstantiated charges that the Trump campaign colluded with the Russians during the 2016 elections, even suggesting that Russian meddling was responsible for Trumps Electoral College victory. If the end result of the Mueller probe is to confirm Trumps incessant claims of no collusion, it would be a political debacle for the Democratic Party and the faction of the military-intelligence apparatus which is aligned with the Democrats in the campaign against Trump. The individuals closest to Donald Trump that have been indictedsuch as George Papadopoulos, Paul Manafort, Michael Flynn and Michael Cohenwere charged with lying to federal investigators, tax and bank fraud in their personal business dealings and campaign finance violations, not collusion with either the Russian government or Russian businessmen. The indictments from the Mueller probe regarding cyber activities during the 2016 presidential elections have been entirely of Russians, not members of the Trump camp. Even if one accepts the indictments as trueand they have not been tested in any court proceeding and will not bethe 13 Russian nationals and three Russian business entities charged with information warfare during the 2016 US elections were engaged in online activity that had minimal if any impact on voting results. Furthermore, neither the Russian businessmen nor the 12 alleged Russian intelligence officers who were indicted for hacking the servers of the Democratic National Committee before the elections have been directly connected to anyone in the Trump campaign or White House. To the extent that the details of the Special Counsels report are made public, it will no doubt reveal the depth of the attacks on democracy within the American political establishment and the tendencies toward authoritarianism. Among the byproducts of the entire Russian interference campaign at the heart of the Mueller probe has been a steady drive by both capitalist parties, the state intelligence agencies and the internet technology industry toward online censorship under the guise of fighting fake news and misinformation. Over the past week, millions of Australians have sought, via vigils, petitions and social media posts, to voice their revulsion and outrage at the massacre of 50 Muslims at two New Zealand mosques. Adding to the shock and concern is that this terrible crime, one of the worst acts of fascist violence since World War II, was carried out by a young man, Brenton Tarrant, 28, who was born and bred in Australia. By contrast, while feigning sympathy for the victims, the entire political and media establishment is desperately denying any responsibility for creating the social conditions and political climate for such atrocities. In a speech last Monday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison called for an end to mindless tribalism. While appealing for an end to hate, blame and contempt, his sole purpose was to insist that there was no link between the Christchurch attack and Australias notorious record of demonising and incarcerating refugees. Morrison claimed that legitimate policy debates about border policy and slashing the migration intake were being hijacked by tribalists of both the left and the right. Tarrant had rightly been denounced for exploiting concerns about immigration to justify a mass killing, but equally anyone must be denounced if they seek to connect government policy to racial hatred. This attempt to wall off refugee and immigration policy from the murders committed by a self-proclaimed ethno-nationalist is utter hypocrisy. There are palpable connections between Tarrant and the bipartisan regime of stopping the boats, detaining asylum seekers indefinitely and vilifying Muslims, which has been pursued for decades by successive Australian governments, Liberal-National Coalition and Labor alike. Australias anti-refugee model has long been hailed by the far-right networks to which Tarrant proclaimed allegiance in his manifesto, railing against Muslim invaders. Among the most avid admirers of Australias brutal policy have been the far-right Donald Trump and the leaders of fascistic parties across Europe, including the Legas Matteo Salvini, who is now Italys deputy prime minister, Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz, whose Peoples Party attacks Muslims and refugees, and the neo-fascist French National Rallys Marine Le Pen. Tarrant himself was born in 1991, the year that the Hawke-Keating Labor government became the first in the world to mandatorily detain all asylum seekers, a regime now being replicated by the Trump administration and governments all over Europe. The same government, working hand-in-glove with the trade unions, unleashed the global program of deregulation and privatisation that demolished the jobs and conditions of workers across Australia, including in regional towns, such as Grafton, where Tarrant grew up. Labors condemnation of refugees as queue jumpers was part of a conscious policy to divert and divide the working class as this social assault escalated. In the same year, the Labor government also rushed to join the US in its first invasion of Iraq, initiating decades of militarism aimed at reasserting the global hegemony of American capitalism. Australian troops have been on the frontline of every bloody US war since. That is the political climate that shaped Tarrants views. For three decades, Australian governments, Coalition and Labor alike, have stoked nationalism, militarism and xenophobia to divert the rising discontent produced by falling real wages, the destruction of full-time jobs and decaying public services and infrastructure. Morrison himself has been in the forefront of anti-Muslim scapegoating. As immigration minister from 2013 to 2015, he led the military-based Operation Sovereign Borders to repel refugee boats and reinforce the previous Labor governments policy of incarcerating asylum seekers, many of whom have fled the US-led wars in the Middle East. An early fore-warning of this role came in 2010. According to well-substantiated media reports, Morrison urged a Coalition shadow cabinet meeting to whip up concerns about Muslim immigration as a political weapon. This week, he branded these reports a disgraceful smear and an appalling lie, but later admitted he had raised the issue in 2010, supposedly to address but not exploit alleged public concerns about Muslims. Just days after the Christchurch attack, Morrison unveiled a 15 percent cut to the countrys annual migration intake, to 160,000, and a policy to force new arrivals to live and work in rural areas for three years, as a source of cheap labour, in order to qualify for permanent residency. Labor Party leader Bill Shorten immediately agreed with the announcement. In a misguided attempt to voice their political disgust, more than 1.3 million people this week signed an on-line petitionby far the largest in Australian historyto demand the expulsion from parliament of the openly racist Senator Fraser Anning. He had declared that Muslim migration was the real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets. This popular outrage, while justified, is misdirected. Anning simply gave unvarnished expression to the poisonous fumes that saturate the parliament itself. In fact, Anning, who entered parliament as a nominee of Senator Pauline Hansons anti-immigrant One Nation party, espouses the White Australia policy on which the Labor Party and the trade unions were founded in the 1890s. Moreover, the climate of anti-Muslim racism also has been deliberately fomented to justify the US-led war on terror in the resource-rich and strategic Middle East, which successive Australian governments, both Coalition and Labor-led, have supported since 2001. The removal of an MP for his views would set an anti-democratic precedent to be used against left-wing dissent, as Morrisons targeting of the left indicates. The only MP ever expelled from the national parliament, Hugh Mahon, was removed in 1920 for seditious and disloyal utterances at a public meeting, at which he condemned British repression in Ireland and called for a republic. Many questions remain about how Tarrant and his co-thinkers in Australia, New Zealand and Europe were able to prepare his mass murder, supposedly without being detected by the police and intelligence agencies. Nevertheless, the official response has been to exonerate these political surveillance forces and hand them expanded resources and powers. Morrison began by allocating another $55 million for the installation of CCTV cameras and other security systems. Backed by Shorten, he demanded that social media platforms do more to censor postings, and called for this issue to be placed on the agenda of this years G20 summit in Japan. Such measures will not primarily be used to block fascist views, but to undermine democratic rights and the struggles of the working class against social inequality and war. While the events in New Zealand have come as a shock to many people, the record shows that the evolution of an Australian fascist is hardly accidental. The Australian ruling elite has long been in the vanguard of resorting to anti-immigrant and nationalist demagogy to try to divert and divide the working class. Tarrants callous murder of Muslims marks a new stage. The capitalist ruling class internationally, from the Trump administration to the ultra-right governments and parties in Europe, is increasingly promoting fascistic forces to suppress the emerging eruption of working-class struggle against the escalating inequality, social crisis and threat of war. On Thursday evening, the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) announced via Twitter that it is endorsing Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders in the Democratic Party presidential primary. The decision, telegraphed well in advance, became official at Thursdays meeting of the National Political Committee (NPC), a sixteen-person body which functions as the board of directors of the DSA. The vote came after an advisory poll was sent to DSA members a week after Sanders announced his 2020 bid. Just over 13,000 DSA members24 percent of those eligibleparticipated in the survey. About 76 percent of those who responded indicated support for endorsing Sanders campaign, while 24 percent said they were opposed. While there have been some points of debate on various aspects of the endorsement within the leadership of the DSA, the announcement was no surprise. The organization has been planning their role in the Sanders 2020 campaign ever since he lost the Democratic nomination to Hillary Clinton in 2016. Last months edition of Jacobin magazine, which is associated with the DSA, was almost exclusively dedicated to supporting Sanders bid for the Democratic nomination, complete with a front cover title: I, president of the United States, and how I ended poverty next to a picture of Sanders. In the fall of 2018, the DSA National Electoral Committee (NEC) produced a 14-page document in anticipation of Sanders announcement, stating in its opening paragraphs, If DSA is to play an important role in Sanderss campaignboth growing DSA as a serious, independent, socialist pole in the broader Sanders movement, and helping Sanders win the Democratic Party primary and go on to defeat Trump in the general electionthen it is essential that DSA get involved in this campaign as early as possible. The document then spends a page outlining the process by which the DSA would formally endorse the Sanders campaign. A heavy emphasis is put on the need to move quickly, stating that otherwise, We risk starting late and playing only a background role in the larger mobilization behind Sanders and his program. While the DSA had ostensibly not decided to endorse Sanders at the time of publication of its document, the NEC dedicated the following eight pages to outlining the initial campaign plan to support Sanders, and only a few sentences to what the DSA would do if it decided not to make the endorsement. The DSA is eager to play the leading role in channeling social opposition behind the Sanders campaign and the Democratic Party. The leaders of the DSA hope thereby to secure more lucrative positions within the party and its affiliated organizations. It is also playing an assigned role, namely that of seeking to redirect the growing interest among young people in socialism into the safe confinesfrom the standpoint of the ruling classof the Democratic Party. For this reason, the DSA has been promoted by the corporate media and the Democratic Party itself, with Jacobin magazine elevated in Google search rankings. Sanders has been quite open about his intentions. Answering a question at a recent CNN town hall event about why he chose to run as a Democrat, Sanders replied by noting that he is a member of the Democratic leadership of the United States Senate. He added that more and more people are disenchanted with both the Republican and Democratic plank and that his role, as somebody who was an Independent, we can bring them into the Democratic Party. The Democratic Party, as a result of its right-wing policies, has lost significant support among workers, and particularly among young people. Sanders sees his role as utilizing his reputation as an independent to convince workers and young people not to seek an alternative. His left-sounding rhetoric on the campaign trail is intended for this purpose, while he says nothing about the fact that his own party is responsible no less than the Republicans in creating the conditions that he ostensibly opposes. This was Sanders role in 2016, when he directed those who voted for him in the primaries to support Clinton, who he had previously criticized as the candidate of Wall Street, in the general electionsas the only way to defeat Trump. Sanders has already pledged to support whomever is nominated by the Democratsas the only way to get rid of Trump. Whatever comes out of the process, the Democrats will continue their right-wing trajectory. Over the course of the past two years, the Democrats have waged the opposition to Trump on the basis of support for the military and intelligence agencies and demands for a more aggressive line against Russia. If Sanders were to win the nomination and win the presidency, moreover, he would abandon his proposed reforms with extreme rapidity. As for the DSA, it operates one degree, or perhaps a half or a quarter degree, removed from Sanders himself. While speaking about socialism a little more often, or suggesting that they might be called on to pressure Sanders to fight, they lend their services in propping Sanders up, who is propping up the Democratic Party, which is a principal instrument of the political rule of Wall Street and the military. And behind the DSA are innumerable organizationsthe International Socialist Organization, Socialist Alternative, etc.looking for auxiliary roles. None of this has anything to do with socialism. In a series of announcements barely reported in the media, Canadas Liberal government has intensified its right-wing, militarist and anti-refugee policies. The Liberals budget, delivered Tuesday, confirmed that Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) military training operations in the Middle East and Ukraine will be extended, for two and three years respectively. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus Minister for Border Security, Bill Blair, has revealed he is in talks with Washington to fast-track the expulsion of refugee claimants who flee Trumps brutal anti-immigrant crackdown by crossing into Canada. Tuesdays budget commits Ottawa to investing some $1.39 billion over the next two years to maintaining Canadas participation in the US-led war in Iraq and Syria, and in advancing Canadian imperialist interests throughout the oil-rich region. Since Canada joined the latest Iraq-Syria war in 2014 under the previous Conservative government of Stephen Harper, it has played a critical role in facilitating the death and destruction wrought by US-led military operations in both countries. This includes abetting deadly air strikes that claimed the lives of thousands of civilians and the almost total destruction of Mosul, Iraqs third largest city, and Raqqa in Syria. Conscious of the widespread opposition to the Mideast war, the Trudeau government in February 2016 recalibrated the mission, ordering the withdrawal of fighter jets and the deployment of additional Special Forces troops and command personnel. Deployed to northern Iraq in what was ostensibly a training mission, the Special Forces troops provided frontline advice and support to Kurdish peshmerga forces in operations close to Mosul during the ruinous onslaught on that city. The Liberals subsequently expanded Canadas military involvement in Iraq as part of a stepped up Canadian role in NATO that has seen the CAF take the lead role in a new forward deployed NATO battalion in Latvia, on Russias border. At NATOs 2018 annual summit, Canada agreed to take command of a new NATO mission to train Iraqi troops fighting for the central government in Baghdad for one year. This has now been extended until the end of March 2021. The Ukraine mission, which is being promoted by the government and media as the defence of democracy against Russian aggression, is to be extended for a further three years, at a cost of an additional $105 million. Canadian troops were first deployed to Ukraine, with the aim of training Ukrainian Army and National Guard forces to wage war in the east against pro-Russian separatists, by the previous Tory government following the 2014 Western-orchestrated, fascist-led coup in Kiev and Russias subsequent annexation of Crimea. Like the Middle East deployment, Trudeaus Liberals picked up seamlessly from where Harpers Conservatives left off, extending the Ukrainian training mission when it came up for renewal in 2016 and providing full-throated support for NATOs belligerent moves against Russia. In highly-provocative comments made during a 2016 visit to Ukraine, Trudeau said the 200 CAF personnel deployed there are preparing its soldiers to liberate Ukrainian territorya clear reference to Russian-controlled Crimea and other predominantly Russian-speaking areas in eastern Ukraine that have revolted against Kievs ultra-nationalist government. Behind all of the rhetoric about a feminist and humanitarian foreign policy, the Liberals actions in the Middle East and Eastern Europe demonstrate their role as a bludgeon for advancing the Canadian ruling elites global predatory interests. They also underscore Trudeaus commitment to deepening Canadian imperialisms strategic partnership with Washington and Wall Street, even as they pursue incendiary military-strategic offensives in the Middle East, against Russia and China, and threaten Venezuela with invasion. In their 2017 national defence policy Strong, Secure, Engaged, the Liberals committed to hike military spending by more than 70 percent by 2026 to almost $33 billion per year. In preparation for Canadas participation in future major wars, the defence policy calls for the purchase of new warplanes and battleships, armed drones and armored vehicles, and an increase in military personnel. In explaining the policys aims, Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said Canada must do more to supplement a weakened US in maintaining the North American-led world order, and that this will require hard power and a readiness to fight warssomething she emphasized Canada had done repeatedly in the 20th century. In her June 2017 speech, Freeland denounced Russia as a strategic rival and identified China as a global threat. That the corporate-controlled media has said little to nothing about the extension of the Mideast and Ukraine military missions and that the ostensible left New Democratic Party has failed to issue a word of criticism only underscore that Canadian imperialisms expanding global military footprint enjoys universal support within the political establishment. What the media has been full of in recent days are propaganda pieces deploring a reputed Liberal government spending spree ahead of this falls federal election. The measures cited as proof for such claims, including a pitiful $4.5 billion over five years to improve living conditions for Canadas indigenous peoples and a $1.8 billion tax break for low-income seniors who remain in the workforce, are not even a drop in the bucket when set against the fiscal austerity enforced by Liberal, Conservative, NDP and Parti Quebecois federal and provincial governments for decades. Working with Trump to fast-track the expulsion of refugees The true measure of the Trudeau governments progressive posturing is given by its intimate cooperation with the Trump administration on domestic as well as foreign policy issues. Blairs announcement during a Globe and Mail interview that he is seeking to close a loophole in the Canada-US Safe Third Country Agreement is highly significant in this regard. The agreement allows Canada to immediately return refugee claimants arriving at an official entry point from the United States on the grounds that the US is a safe country, whose democratic institutions will ensure they are afforded all the protections of international law. However, a loophole in the agreement means that refugees crossing outside official entry points along the lengthy Canada-US land border can apply for asylum. Under conditions of Trumps vicious crackdown on refugees and immigrantswhich has included the separation of families, abuse of children, and the confining of refugees in concentration camp-like conditionstens of thousands have taken advantage of this loophole during the past two years, crossed into Canada, and applied for asylum. Notwithstanding the official media propaganda, they have been met with cold hostility from the authorities, with many left to languish in poor housing and survive on food-bank handouts. Up until now, the Trudeau government has insisted that there is no need to revise the Safe Third Country Agreement, since, at its orders, Canada Border Services is deporting the vast majority of those seeking asylum back to their impoverished and in many cases war-torn countries. Now the Liberals are seeking to make a deal with Trump that will condemn thousands of desperate men, women, and children to detention, mistreatment and possibly worse at the hands of Trumps thuggish Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection personnel, before ultimately being deported. Blair, who oversaw the brutal repression meted out to thousands of anti-G20 protesters in Toronto in 2010, tried to justify this by denouncing those who have crossed into Canada irregularly for undermining the fairness and effectiveness of Canadas asylum system. In reality, the Liberals are bowing to anti-immigrant chauvinism whipped up by the most reactionary sections of the establishment, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford. The Liberals escalation of their militarist and xenophobic policies comes amid a sharp shift to the right within the Canadian bourgeoisie. Over the past year, it has brought right-wing populist governments to power in Ontario and Quebec, the countrys two most populous provinces. This week there were fresh revelations about the ties of the United Conservative Party, which to the delight of the corporate elite appears poised to win Albertas April election, to far-right and outright fascist forces. One of the partys star candidates, Caylan Ford, was forced to resign after a report revealed she made favorable Facebook comments about fascist protesters in Charlottesville in August 2017, where a neo-Nazi killed a counter-protester by striking her with his car. Within this context, a significant and growing faction of the bourgeoisie is voicing concerns that the Trudeau government is not moving far enough and fast enough in implementing its class war agenda. This faction fears Trudeau is prevaricating in carrying through the ruthless attacks on the working class needed to pay for Canadas rearmament and foreign aggression and enhance the competitive position of Canadian capital. It is considering the possibility of forcing Trudeau to resign in favour of a war-hawk like Freeland or bringing to power the Conservatives after the upcoming election. In recent weeks this faction has stepped up its attacks on Trudeau through the SNC-Lavalin scandal, which has revealed the extent to which the Liberal government acted at the beck-and-call of one of Canadas largest corporate players, rewriting and bending the law to shield it from criminal prosecution. The author also recommends: Canada ever more deeply implicated in US-engineered coup attempt in Venezuela [14 March 2019] Canada: Why is the corporate media in a frenzy over the SNC-Lavalin affair? [12 March 2019] CASPER Wyomings congressional delegation on Thursday slammed a federal decision blocking oil and gas drilling on 500 square miles of Wyoming land pending a climate change impact analysis. The stay on drilling is the result of a lawsuit fi led by the environmental group Wildearth Guardians, which protested the Obama-era Bureau of Land Managements failure to consider the climate cost of leasing federal land for oil and gas drilling. On Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Rudolph Contreras ruled in favor of Wildearth regarding 300,000 acres in Wyoming leased in 2015 and 2016. The suit was originally intended to force the Obama administration to consider the cumulative nature of climate change in developing federal minerals. Now, conservation groups tangled in a number of battles with the Trump administration over its energy dominance agenda see the decision as a precedent they hope can hobble what they argue is irresponsible development of fossil fuels in the West. Wyoming politicians disagreed. Sen. Mike Enzi called the decision short-sighted and said it was a manipulation of the judicial system. Leasing public lands is vital for our continued efforts to keep energy prices low and create energy independence for the nation, he said. Low oil prices had been a goal for the Trump administration, with the president tweeting about the need to keep the price of crude under control. Wyomings economy, however, had been improving thanks to crude prices strengthening throughout late 2017 and much of 2018. During that time Wyoming also benefited from an increase in lease sales and revenue from an industry sector encouraged by price and political support. Between 2016 and 2017, the states revenue from both federal and state sales increased by 800 percent. The price decline of recent months had dampened some of that optimistic outlook. Sen. John Barrasso also criticized the court decision in a statement Thursday, while praising Wyomings environmental record when it comes to energy development. This bad decision will hurt workers in Wyoming, reduce revenue for the state and slow Americas energy production, Barrasso said. Rep. Liz Cheney, meanwhile, said the ruling highlighted the need to overhaul the implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act, which requires federal agencies to evaluate their proposed actions for environmental impacts before rendering decisions. I will continue to work with President Trump to pursue policies that restore the voice of local stakeholders in Wyoming and reduce the serial litigation imposed by radical environmental groups, Cheney said in a statement. Capitol set for grand opening on Statehood Day CHEYENNE (WNE) A grand reopening of the renovated state Capitol is still on schedule to be part of Wyoming statehood celebrations July 10. During a presentation to the Capitol Building Restoration Oversight Group on Thursday, representatives from the project said the Capitol will be ready for the public to see what four years and $300 million can do to revitalize a nearly 130-year-old building. The Statehood Day celebration will include live music and multiple historical presentations from Native American tribes and the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, ODonnell said. The opening will also include a re-dedication of the cornerstone of the Capitol, a possible speech from Gov. Mark Gordon from the Capitols Roosevelt Balcony and a fireworks display. Construction on the Capitol itself will be finished in time for the celebration, including work on the gold dome, ODonnell said. By April, the scaffolding that still surrounds the dome will start to come down as the final improvements are made. But representatives from the Capitol Square Project said there will still be some final work on the Herschler West Building and in the new annex portion of the complex. An update last year assumed the project wouldnt have enough money to fit the Capitol with new furniture and audio/visual equipment, and a follow-up expenditure would have to be made. But on Thursday, members of the project said there was money for some new furniture and state-of-the-art A/V equipment, after all. Those pieces wont be ready for July 10, and instead will be installed throughout the fall and winter, in time for the Legislatures 2020 budget session, set to start in February. Two injured in oil rig explosion GILLETTE (WNE) Two men were taken to Campbell County Memorial Hospital after an explosion at an oil rig early Wednesday morning. Undersheriff Quentin Reynolds said the explosion happened during the loading of a hot oil tanker at a well site on Van Buggenum Road, southwest of the Pumpkin Buttes. A 24-year-old man had burns to his face and hands from a direct blast. A 23-year-old man received the blast to his back and could not stop shaking after the explosion, Reynolds said. Campbell County Fire Department Interim Chief J.R. Fox said that because the fire happened at an oil well location, the department does not have jurisdiction to investigate the cause and origin of the explosion. Fox estimated that it took about four hours to deal with the fire. No firefighters were hurt responding, he said. Both men were taken to the hospital and the extent of their injuries is not known at this time, Reynolds said. WWCC ranked as best online community college in Wyoming ROCK SPRINGS Western Wyoming Community College was recently ranked by SR Education Group as the best online community college in Wyoming. The rankings were posted on Wednesday afternoon. Each community college was ranked by several important factors, including retention rate, graduation rate, percentage of online enrollment data, and the number of online associate degrees offered. SR Education Group also provides a manually researched tuition based on the colleges website. Besides Western, also ranked were Casper College, No. 2; Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington, No. 3; Central Wyoming College in Riverton, No. 4; Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne, No. 5; and Sheridan College, No. 6. Westerns profile on the website reads: Multiple associate degrees and certificates are offered through Western Wyoming Community Colleges distance learning program. All classwork can be done entirely online, with associate degrees averaging two years to complete. Western offers eight online associate degrees including associate of applied science in office information, associate of arts in criminal justice, associate of arts in social science, associate of arts in social work, associate of arts in sociology, associate of science in accounting, associate of science in business administration and associate of science in computer information systems. In addition, Western offers four online certificate programs in accounting, digital design technologies, emergency management, and website development. Out of the six colleges listed, two have an annual tuition above $3,000, WWCC at $7,344 and LCCC at $3,426 Prison recommended for man who served anothers sentence GILLETTE (WNE) A Gillette man who gave a fake name when he was arrested and then served that mans jail time will do his own prison time if a judge follows the recommendation of prosecutors. Hans J. Heller, 30, pleaded guilty March 6 to felony perjury and as part of a plea deal, prosecutors will recommend an imposed 2.5- to five-year prison term, but he can argue for a lesser sentence. The charges came after Heller was stopped Aug. 18 by a sheriffs deputy and said his name was Scotty Knight. Since there was an active Campbell County warrant for Knight for failure to pay on a criminal trespass charge, Heller was arrested. Even after the deputy told Heller about Knights active warrant, Heller continued the impersonation and went to jail, where he signed five documents with Knights name, according to court documents. Two days later, he appeared before Circuit Court Judge Paul S. Phillips and swore under oath that he was Knight. Phillips, thinking he was Knight, sentenced him to two days in jail which he had just served after the traffic stop and reimposed fines for Knights criminal trespass charge. Heller was then released from jail as Knight. A few days later, a deputy was looking through the list of inmates who had been recently released from jail when he noticed that the photo attached to Knights name wasnt Knight, but was Heller, according to court documents. Deputies found and arrested Heller. When he was pulled over, Heller was wanted on arrest warrants of this own, including interference with a peace officer, failure to comply with child support, failure to pay for driving under suspension and a municipal warrant, according to court documents. New superintendent hired for State Hospital EVANSTON (WNE) The Wyoming State Hospital has a new superintendent. Bill Rein comes to Wyoming from Kansas. Rein grew up near Great Bend, Kansas, where his father worked in oil production. He graduated from high school in Stafford, Kansas, and went on to attend Washburn University in Topeka, where he received a bachelors degree in history and political science. He then attended Washburn Law School, and upon completion in 1977, practiced law in Larned, Kansas. One of the states four state psychiatric hospitals, and its only criminal forensic hospital was located there. As the newest attorney in town, Rein was appointed to represent many of the hospitals patients. Rein has an extensive background working with both mental health patients and providers. My career started with a mental health docket so, in 1978, I was asked to be the first in-house counsel at Larned State Hospital and served in that capacity until 1984. Then I was hired to represent the commissioner of Mental Health Services located in Topeka, where I also represented all eight mental health hospitals. I remained in that position until 1990, Rein said. As senior counsel to the commissioner of mental health, Rein worked on changing the rules of commitment, as the law at that time placed almost exclusive emphasis on acts of violence and very little emphasis on the severity of mental illness and its effects on the ability to form rational thought. This made it especially difficult for the parents and loved ones of those who were experiencing a serious mental illness to help before acts of violence or self-injury occurred. This Week's Deals With Gold Include Hitman 2, Injustice 2 and Watch Dogs 2 Breathtaking Northern Lights May Be Visible From Washington to New York This Weekend Northern Lights May Be Visible From Parts of U.S. This Weekend People in the northern part of the United States may be in for quite a nighttime show this weekend. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, sections of the country stretching from New York to Washington may see an aurora borealis starting on Saturday. Thats because the sun released a massive solar flare on Wednesday that created a cloud of slower-moving charged particles called a coronal mass ejection that will hit the planet this weekend, CNET reported. When these charged particles hit Earths atmosphere, they cause electrons to move to a higher energy state, and when they move back to a lower state, they release light, which just so happens to create the beautiful spectacle we have come to know as the Northern and Southern Lights. But if the aurora does hit the Northern U.S., skies will have to be clear for people to see it. The Northern Lights may be visible Saturday night. This will pair with completely clear skies, wrote meteorologist Joe Charlevoix on Twitter. This is not a guarantee but conditions are favorable, he added. RELATED: This Is the Most Magical Christmas Trip! Watch the Northern Lights on a Train Ride Across Alaska Northern lights | JONATHAN NACKSTRAND/AFP/Getty If you want to make the most out of the event, it is suggested you travel as far away from the city as you can to limit light pollutions effect on your view. Typically, people in the mainland U.S. will have to travel hundreds of miles to Alaska or Canada to catch an aurora. Other great places for visibility include Iceland, Norway, Greenland, Tasmania and New Zealand. As CNET notes, one of the most powerful solar storms in history occurred in 1859, and which caused an aurora that could be seen around the world and caused telegraph wires to light aflame. The solar flare that was released this week was reportedly powerful enough to cause disturbances for radio operators in Europe and Africa. Norah ODonnell added an unexpected stop to her spring break trip this week: the hospital. On Friday, the CBS This Morning co-anchor, 45, ended up at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston to have her appendix removed. A hospital spokesperson told the Post and Courier that ODonnell was taken in for an emergency appendectomy and released later in the day after a successful operation. ODonnell shared photos of her experience on her Instagram Story. Not what we planned for spring break, she captioned the first snap of herself in a hospital gown. Operation to remove appendix before it ruptured, she explained with another photo, going on to share a video of her being wheeled into surgery. In a Story of her giving a thumbs-up, the anchor thanked the medical staff who took care of her, writing, Grateful for amazing nurses, surgeons and whole team. RELATED: Appendix Removal Could Lower the Risk of Parkinsons Disease by Nearly 20 Percent Norah O'Donnell/Instagram Norah O'Donnell/Instagram Norah O'Donnell/Instagram Norah O'Donnell/Instagram ODonnells husband, restaurateur Geoff Tracy, also posted on social media to thank the hospital staff and pay tribute to his wife. Next to a thumbs-up emoji, Tracy wrote that his wife is stronger than steel. Marta (Elena Andrada) is 17, from Barcelona and alternately bored and mortified to be on a Christmas vacation to Senegal with her estranged dad, Manel (Sergi Lopez), and annoying little brother, Bruno (Ian Samso). For her, the freedoms of imminent adulthood, such as the occasional poolside mojito, are tantalizing close but still technically forbidden, rather like the employees section of their resort hotel that is quarantined from the guests domain by a doorway marked Staff Only. Catalan director Neus Ballus, in her calm, intelligent second feature after 2013s docudrama The Plague, allows Martas coming of age to sensitively parallel, in unexpected ways, a clear-eyed critique of tourism in post-colonial regions. The film is mediated through a white Westerners experience rather than that of a local, but it is no white-savior narrative; if anything, it is a gentle dismantling of that myth from the inside, revealing the myopia and self-deluding nature of middle-class white package-tourism in Africa. Unlike her protagonist, Ballus doesnt mistake good intentions for an intimate understanding of an experience that is not hers to claim. The form of the movie is generally realist, aided by naturalistic photography from DP Diego Dussuel and impressively unforced performances from the largely first-timer cast. An exception is the shaky-low grade video footage of the family that punctuates the film, shot by local guide and aspiring filmmaker Khouma (Diomaye A. Ngom). Khouma is compiling the footage into a souvenir video that Manel can purchase as a memento of their safaris, bingo nights and trips into the desert to participate in tribal dances all of which Marta endures only reluctantly, one mutinous eye-roll away from all-out rebellion. Rebellion does eventually happen. She strikes up a flirtation with Khouma and a friendship with hotel maid Aissatou (Madeleine C. Ndong) in direct opposition to the wishes of her travel-agent father. Ballus careful script (co-written with Pau Subiros) cleverly leaves the reasons for those wishes ambiguous. Is the somewhat crass Manel forbidding her to hang out with locals because hes overprotective and borderline racist? Or is he simply more realistic, aware in a way she is not, of how Marta gets to move through the world differently because of her white skin, an injustice that may not be her fault but can cause understandable, potentially dangerous, resentment? Whatever the case, with the self-centered assurance of a teenager who believes she has it all figured out, Marta is soon sneaking into town behind Manels back to go clubbing and hanging out with Aissatou behind the Staff Only partition. Its a barrier breach that comes to stand for a whole variety of social, cultural and moral boundaries that she has the unexamined privilege of being able to test. Story continues Embedded in this understated story, which takes a turn for the predictable only in the slightly underwhelming final act, are acute observations about the paradoxical desire of so many First World visitors to developing nations for luxury, comfort and exclusivity even as they demand bite-sized authentic experiences that will sate their cultural curiosity. Martas naive interest in the real lives of her newfound Senegalese friends is genuine, yet its not without an element of self-satisfaction at being singled out as special, different, better than other tourists. The film makes clear that Marta, however personally innocent she may be of these wider injustices, is part of an exploitative system that is far bigger and more insidious than she has ever considered, cuing a rude awakening thats handled deftly, without making anyone a villain. Indeed the films defining strength may be Ballus rare ability to wield compassion for each one of her imperfect characters without making excuses for any of them. It is this sensitivity and generosity that sets the film apart from Ulrich Seidls nominally similar but scathingly misanthropic Paradise: Love, which eviscerates the players on all sides of the African sex tourism industry. In Staff Only, the tone is bittersweet rather than excoriating, and while that may make the film a mite too cozy at times, in the main it illuminates the unusual and valuable idea that discovering how to be a good tourist is a lot like working out how to be a good adult. Both journeys are an ongoing series of learning experiences, disillusionments, mistakes and course-corrections, for which one is provided no road map, just an inner sense of morality to use as an imprecise, and occasionally misleading, compass. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Harvey and Bob Weinstein are being accused of being responsible for the commercial failure of the sequel to the wildly popular movie, Sin City. According to documents obtained by The Blast, a lawsuit was filed against Harvey, Bob and producer David Glasser, by the producers of Sin City: A Dame to Kill For. The producers [] 0322_sin-city-2 Harvey and Bob Weinstein are being accused of being responsible for the commercial failure of the sequel to the wildly popular movie, Sin City. According to documents obtained by The Blast, a lawsuit was filed against Harvey, Bob and producer David Glasser, by the producers of Sin City: A Dame to Kill For. The producers claim way back in 2012 they acquired the rights to make the sequel to Frank Millers gritty comic book-style, neo-noir action flick and made an agreement with The Weinstein Company to handle the distribution. TWC apparently agreed not to promote any other films during the time around the release of Sin City, and also agreed to pump at least $25 million into advertising. The producers, including Sergei and Marina Bespalov, claim during the same time, TWC was actually promoting the sci-fi movie, The Giver, starring Jeff Bridges and Meryl Streep, which they claim the Weinsteins had a financial interest in. Because defendants held a substantial personal interest in The Givers financial success, Defendants took action to make certain The Giver achieved a profitable distribution, even though doing so directly harmed Plaintiffs film Sin City 2; a film in which Defendants had no financial interest, the documents state. The producers claim Sin City eventually went on to become a commercial failure, only grossing $18.5 million domestically and in Canada. Furthermore, they claim TWC stated that over $30 million was spent on marketing the film. The producers now believe TWC was commingling the funds, and actually only spent around $5 million in promotion. According to the documents, the producers believe TWC was in a practice of screwing over movies they did not have a financial interest in, so they took the Weinstein brothers former company to arbitration, and claim to have been awarded $17.4 million in 2018. They now believe there are greater damages, as the movie, which earned a 42% on Rotten Tomatoes, could have grossed many millions worldwide if allegedly marketed correctly. The producers of the film believe they are owed more damages in lost profits and damaged reputation, and are demanding an unspecified amount be determined at a trial. The post Harvey Weinstein & His Brother Accused of Screwing Sin City: A Dame To Kill For appeared first on The Blast. U.S. The Daily Beast Nuccio DiNuzzo/GettyA juror in the Jussie Smollett trial has explained several reasons why the jury felt there was no way they could acquit the star actor in his bombshell trial for staging a fake hate crime attack on himself. The female juror, who declined to be named, told the Chicago Sun-Times that the jury of six women and six men didnt have any major disagreements but they took nine hours to deliberate because they wanted to properly consider all the evidence. Some doubted that prosecutors Two women have been suspended with pay from their jobs at a Head Start program in Illinois, as police investigate allegations that both women abused four of the 20 children left in their care. PEOPLE confirms that charges have not yet been filed against the two educators, who are no longer working for the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, which operated the childcare program out of the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center in East Saint Louis. The two women a 26-year-old teacher and a 41-year-old teaching assistant have not been named. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Police Chief Kevin Schmoll told KTVI his officers worked quickly to address the allegations after they came to light. One of the alleged victims spoke to his mother and she brought the accusations to authorities. Within hours, the teacher and her assistant were removed from the classroom of 20 kids. According to Schmoll, four students were allegedly forced to undress and stand in a dark closet for between 5 and 10 minutes. Those subjected to this discipline were being punished for unspecified bad behaviors. The investigation continues, the chief said. One teacher said she felt it would calm the children down by doing this, Schmoll told the station. But its obviously in no teaching manual anywhere. Its inappropriate and against the law to do this. None of the four children were physically or sexually abused, Schmoll said. He alleged the teacher admitted to the bizarre form of punishment. The assistant, according to Schmoll, is facing scrutiny for failing to do anything to stop the punishments. 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. A spokesperson for the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation provided a statement to KTVI, saying the program is run completely independently from the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center programming and Foundation. It adds: Our staff was in no way involved in this alleged incident and had no knowledge of what happened in this case. As a foundation that dedicates itself to improving the lives of children, we were deeply saddened to hear this alleged incident occurred and know that appropriate legal actions are being taken. FILE PHOTO: Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry the Duke of Sussex visit the Andalusian Gardens in Rabat, Morocco February 25, 2019. Facundo Arrizabalaga/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo By Michael Holden LONDON (Reuters) - Wearing his army fatigues while on tour in Afghanistan in 2013 thousands of miles from home, Britain's Prince Harry cut a relaxed figure as he told journalists: "I am one of the guys, I don't get treated any differently." Now with the birth of his first child expected next month, Queen Elizabeth's grandson and his wife Meghan will have to decide how "normal" a life they want the future seventh-in-line to the British crown to have. "I don't think there's been a member of the royal family that hasn't said they want their children to have a normal upbringing," Ingrid Seward, editor of Majesty Magazine told Reuters. "Even the queen said she wanted her children to have as normal an upbringing as possible. But with the media attention it's actually not possible to have a totally normal upbringing." Harry is all too familiar with the attention that comes with being a British royal. The disintegration of the marriage of his parents - heir-to-the-throne Prince Charles and his late first wife Diana - was played out in the public glare and his mother was killed in a Paris car crash in 1997 as the limousine carrying her and her lover Dodi al-Fayed crashed as it fled chasing paparazzi. In the last two years, Harry has spoken openly of his mental anguish at the loss of his mother when he was just 12 and how in the years that followed he struggled with his royal status. "I didn't want to be in the position I was in, but I eventually pulled my head out of the sand, started listening to people and decided to use my role for good," he said in a 2017 interview with Newsweek. "Is there any one of the royal family who wants to be king or queen? I dont think so, but we will carry out our duties at the right time." Diana had been keen that her two sons should be brought up away from the stuffy confines of royal palaces and their traditions. She took them on trips to the cinema, to McDonald's, and to a theme park. Story continues "Thank goodness Im not completely cut off from reality. I am determined to have a relatively normal life, and if I am lucky enough to have children, they can have one too," said Harry. But how realistic is Harry's wish? Polls suggest he is one of the most popular British royals, vying with the 92-year-old queen and his elder brother William for top spot, and his marriage to a glamorous Hollywood actress has only increased the media and public fascination. "I can't see this child being raised in any other way than pretty traditionally and with a great dollop of privilege," said Robert Jobson, author of "Prince Charles at 70: Our Future King". Meghan, whose rift with members of her own family has provided great fodder for tabloids, giving her a clear insight into the baggage that being a royal brings, has not made any public statement about the possible upbringing for the baby. But, speeches made by Harry since the pregnancy was announced have hinted how they do not want their child not be valued on their royal background. "You don't judge someone based on how they look, where they're from, or how they identify," Harry told 12,000 students at London's Wembley Arena in March. As well as his own upbringing, Harry and Meghan can look to the experiences of other royals. William has fiercely sought to defend the privacy of his children, George, Charlotte and Louis and so far the media have generally abided by requests to leave them alone. "In reality, they can do normal within the royal confines," said Claudia Joseph, author of "How to Dress Like A Princess". "We've seen that William and Kate have brought up George, Charlotte and Louis out of the public eye and both William and Harry were left alone to a certain extent until they left university." Royal author Jobson said whatever Harry and Meghan's aims, it will be almost impossible for their child to completely escape his or her background. "I believe this child probably won't have to serve as a member of the royal family but will certainly be a celebrity for a very, very long time." The special counsels investigation into the connections and possible coordination between the Russian government and President Donald Trump and his aides has been completed, according to CNN and The New York Times. Robert Mueller, the former FBI director leading the probe, has submitted his report to Attorney General William P. Barr, but it remains unclear when and how much of the report will be shared with Congress and the public. That decision is Barrs, the Times reports. I may be in a position to advise you of the special counsels principal conclusions as soon as this weekend, he wrote in a leader to leaders of the House and Senate Judiciary committees, according to the Times. NBC News Tom Winter reports that there will be no additional indictments. American intelligence officials believe that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election in an effort to boost Trumps chances over Democratic challenger Hillary Clinton largely through the Russian hacking of Clinton-related emails and then, via WikiLeaks, their release. Both Trump and the Russian government have always adamantly denied any conspiracy. As part of his investigation, Mueller also investigated whether the president obstructed justice, according to the Washington Post. The president gave written answers to questions from Muellers team but did not sit for an interview. While several Trump campaign and administration officials have been ensnared in Muellers investigation which has tallied some seven guilty pleas and 37 defendants, per CNN there have been no charges that they helped carry out the Russian campaign against Clinton. According to a copy of Barrs letter shared by the Times Katie Benner, Barr said he will discuss next steps on the reports release with his deputy, Rod Rosenstein, and Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law, including the Special Counsel regulations, and the Departments long-standing practices and policies. Story continues I remain committed to as much transparency as possible, Barr wrote to the committees, and I will keep you informed as to the status of my review. In a brief statement, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said, The next steps are up to Attorney General Barr, and we look forward to the process taking its course. The White House has not received or been briefed on the Special Counsels report. In a joint statement, Democratic leaders Nancy Pelosi, the House speaker, and Chuck Schumer, the Senate minority leader, called on Barr to make public the full scope of Muellers findings. Now that Special Counsel Mueller has submitted his report to the Attorney General, it is imperative for Mr. Barr to make the full report public and provide its underlying documentation and findings to Congress, they said, adding, The American people have a right to the truth. The watchword is transparency. An official with the Department of Justice described Muellers report as comprehensive, CNN reports, but its full contents are not yet known. Barrs letter notes only that it explains Muellers various decisions to prosecute or not prosecute. Some Republicans joined the call for the report to swiftly be made public. Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, the ranking Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, tweeted that he expected the Justice Department to release Muellers report to this committee & public w/o delay and to maximum extent permitted by law. Ohio Republican congressman Jim Jordan, perhaps the presidents most aggressive ally on the Judiciary Committee, was silent on Twitter in the immediate aftermath of news that the report had finally been issued to the DOJ. Mueller was authorized from the start to pursue matters that arose from his initial investigation of the president and Russia, and the most significant prosecutions from his work were largely unrelated to the 2016 campaign itself. Michael Flynn, the disgraced general and former Trump national security adviser, admitted lying to the FBI about his contacts with a Russian ambassador after Trump was elected and Paul Manafort, the former Trump campaign chairman, will spend years in prison for financial crimes and conspiracy. Roger Stone, a longtime aide, was the last notable Trump associate targeted by Mueller. He was arrested in January on seven charges, all related to efforts to mislead and obstruct Congressional probes into Russia and the Trump campaign. He has pleaded not guilty. Mueller was named special counsel in the summer of 2017 in the wake of Trumps surprise firing of James Comey, who was then the director of the FBI. This is a breaking news story. Please return for updates. Sydney Aiello, a survivor of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting in Florida, has died by suicide. She was 19. Her mother, Cara Aiello, confirmed the news to local media on Friday, telling CBS4 that her daughter took her own life on March 17, 2019 because of survivors guilt. She added that her daughter had recently been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Cara Aiello went on to tell the news station that her daughter was on campus on the day of the shooting, but not in Freshman Building where the shooting occurred. Aiello said that Sydney struggled to attend her college classes after graduation, because she was afraid of being in a classroom. While mourning the loss of her daughter, Cara Aiello tells the station that she hopes Sydneys story can help save others who are struggling with their mental health in the aftermath of the shooting. As news of Sydneys death spread through the Marjory Stoneman Douglas community, many reacted with shock and sadness. One teacher tells WFLA that Aeillo was a joy to have in class during high school. RELATED: Warning Signs to Look for If You Are Concerned Someone is Suicidal Sydney was reportedly never the same after the February 14, 2018 shooting that killed 17 people and injured 17 others. She had been close friends with one of the victims, Meadow Pollack, who died at the hands of the gunman. My heart goes out to those poor, poor parents, Meadows father, Andrew Pollack, tells the Miami Herald. Its terrible what happened. Meadow and Sydney were friends for a long, long time. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Click here to get breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases in the True Crime Newsletter. The emotional scars from the shooting are still raw for many of the survivors. Shortly after the shooting, PEOPLE spoke with several survivors who described their horror from that day and expressed fears and doubts for their futures. Friends have set up a GoFundMe to raise funds for Aiellos family. Sydney spent 19 years writing her story as a beloved daughter, sister and friend to many, they wrote. She lit up every room she entered. She filled her days cheerleading, doing yoga, and brightening up the days of others. Sydney aspired to work in the medical field helping others in need. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text home to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org. A cruise ship off of the coast of Norway began evacuating more than 1,300 passengers and crew members on Saturday after sending out a distress signal. A spokeswoman for the Joint Rescue Centre for Southern Norway told CNN that the Viking Sky cruise ship sent out the mayday signal due to engine problems in bad weather. The spokesperson added that about 115 people had been airlifted off the ship on Saturday, eight with minor injuries, and that rescue operations would continue through the night and Sunday. In a statement to PEOPLE, a Viking spokesman said the ship was carrying 915 guests and 458 crew when it experienced a loss of engine power off the coast of Norway near Molde. Our first priority was for the safety and wellbeing of our passengers and our crew, and in close cooperation with the Norwegian Coast Guard, the captain decided to evacuate all guests from the vessel by helicopter, the Viking spokesman added, noting that the evacuation is proceeding with all necessary caution despite the injuries. Frank Einar Vatne/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock According to the Associated Press, authorities told Norwegian public broadcaster NRK that the stormy weather was preventing rescue workers from using lifeboats as rescue vehicles. We are working closely with the relevant authorities and all operational procedures were followed in line with international regulations, Viking said, adding that the company has dispatched an operational task force to Molde. The cruise line said anyone with concerns about passengers aboard the ship can look for updates on its website. RELATED: Cruise Passengers Injured After Extreme Gust of Wind Causes Ship to Tilt Sideways Odd Roar Lange/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock CNN reported that the ship was secured with one anchor and workers were attempting to get more than one engine running on Saturday. The outlet added that five helicopters and a number of vessels were helping with rescue efforts. The ship was in the Hustadsvika waters off Norways west coast, an area known for fierce weather and shallow waters dotted with reefs, Reuters reported. Story continues RELATED VIDEO: Cruise Ship Battered by Rough Waters Due to Hurricane Michael The NRK, via the AP, reported that the helicopter evacuation was a dangerous and slow-moving process because the passengers had to be lifted from the ship to the helicopters one by one. Its a demanding exercise, because [the passengers] have to hang in the air under a helicopter and theres a very, very strong wind, witness Odd Roar Lange told NRK at the site. Guests are being accommodated in local hotels when they arrive back on shore, and Viking will arrange for return flights for all guests, Viking said in a statement. Video of the storm could be seen in social media posts from passengers aboard the ship. According to cruisemapper.com, the Viking Sky was in the middle of a 12-day trip. The ship departed from Bergen, Norway on March 14 and was expected to dock at a London port on March 26. Texas attorney general files lawsuit against company where chemicals burned for days originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Texas has filed a lawsuit against a company where petrochemicals burned for days and sent thick, black clouds of smoke wafting over the Houston area. Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the environmental lawsuit against Intercontinental Terminals Company on Friday in order to seek "injunctive relief and civil penalties" in connection with the fire. The fire, which began last weekend, briefly reignited at the same time Paxton was announcing the suit. (MORE: As immediate threat passes, activists say Deer Park chemical fire brings attention to persistent issues) The company is involved in the production of gasoline and the fire released multiple chemicals in the air, including benzene, according to the attorney general. The Environmental Protection Agency said Friday morning there had been no detection of benzene in the air as of Thursday, however, it's unclear if the reignition changed that. "The state of Texas works hard to maintain good air quality and will hold ITC accountable for the damage it has done to our environment," Paxton said in a statement. "ITC has a history of environmental violations, and this latest incident is especially disturbing and frightening. No company can be allowed to disrupt lives and put public health and safety at risk." PHOTO: The petrochemical fire at Intercontinental Terminals Company reignited as crews tried to clean out the chemicals that remained in the tanks Friday, March 22, 2019, in Deer Park, Texas. (AP) Even brief exposure to benzene can cause fatigue, dizziness and headaches. The EPA said Thursday it had not detected any issues with public drinking water from either the chemicals in the fire or the firefighting foam used to fight it. (MORE: Community on edge as responders struggle with fallout from chemical fire) The fire, which began Sunday and was largely put out by Wednesday, caused a number of disruptions to the public. A shelter-in-place order in Deer Park was lifted Thursday morning, but Deer Park Independent School District and La Porte Independent School District both closed schools on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The U.S. Coast Guard also closed the Houston Ship Channel for a period of time on Friday. Story continues PHOTO: Firefighters arrive at the site where the Intercontinental Terminals Company petrochemical fire reignited, Friday, March 22, 2019, in Deer Park, Texas. (AP) PHOTO: Firefighters battle a petrochemical fire at the Intercontinental Terminals Company, March 18, 2019, in Deer Park, Texas. (David J. Phillip/AP) "ITC cares. We care a lot," a teary-eyed Alice Richardson, Intercontinental Terminal Company spokesperson, said Thursday. "We have been good stewards, we've been good neighbors. ... We will fix it and we will make this right." The federal Chemical Safety Board has also opened an investigation into the fire. (MORE: Chemical fire leads to air quality concerns) "Due to the dynamic, ongoing investigation of this incident, only air quality violations have been cited in the state of Texas lawsuit against ICT, LLC," Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Executive Director Toby Baker said in a statement. "Any additional violations, including surface water quality, will be referred to the Office of Attorney General for civil enforcement as part of this action." Penalties could exceed $100,000, according to the lawsuit. ITC is located in Deer Park, Texas, about 20 miles east of downtown Houston. ABC News' Stephanie Ebbs and Matthew Fuhrman contributed to this report. Connecticuts first openly gay kid governor has her eyes on the White House. Ella Briggs, 11, who ran on a pro-LGBTQ platform, was sworn in as kid governor in a January 18th ceremony as part of the states civics program for fifth graders that selects a student candidate in a statewide election. Now, the miniature politician has larger political plans in mind: to become the countrys first lesbian president. When can we start canvassing? Briggs, who attends Ana Grace Academy of the Arts Elementary Magnet School in Avon, Connecticut, was elected by 6,400 fifth graders from 87 schools across the state. During her swearing-in ceremony, she championed LGBTQ inclusion, saying, I will begin important conversations with students and adults all over this great state. We will talk about what it means to be accepting and respectful of everyone, including those of us in the LGBTQ community. At her inauguration, Briggs also announced plans to become the first lesbian president. And while some parents didnt allow their children to attend the ceremony, she remained unfazed, telling the CTPost, Im just so happy that most kids in my class came. There were some kids who pulled out but you cant do anything about that. Haters going to hate. Its just so amazing being in a room full of people who accept me. It feels really good. Learn more about Ellas campaign below. Seriously, though. When can we start canvassing? So technically, there are about 13,876 different skin types. (Super precise, we know.) That said, to help streamline the thousands of products available to our shopping-hungry fingertips, the skincare industry likes to lump us all together into more overarching categoriesoily, combination, dry, sensitive, and normal. Based on the skin type you most identify with (here's a handy guide from one of our fave retailers, Dermstore), you can choose your skincare formulas accordingly. Of course, that all sounds peachy keen until you're faced with 97 pages of face moisturizers while surfing your go-to online beauty retailer. (We wish that was an exaggeration, but unfortunately, 'tis not.) Since the changing of seasons and the recent onset of spring automatically begs the temptation for product switch-ups and skincare routine overhauls, we've been on the hunt for all the best face moisturizers the internet has to offer so that you, dear reader, can avoid a panic attack brought on by product overstimulation. Sorted by oily, combination, normal, sensitive, and dry, we've researched, tried, and scoured the reviews of all of our favorite beauty retailers to ID the best face moisturizers money can buy that will gift you with the bright and healthy result you and your complexion deserve. Curious to see which hydrating formulas made our very discerning cut? Keep scrolling! Oily Renee Rouleau Daily Mattifying Solution ($41) Personally, my skin veers oilycombination on a good day. I also happen to have pores that make a habit of sucking in everything and anything I put on top of them and subsequently clogging. Lovely. Celebrity esthetician Renee Rouleau once recommend this lightweight sebum-controlling face moisturizer to me (like two years ago), and it's pretty much the only formula I've touched since. It keeps bumps and clogged pores on crowd control and my overall complexion bright and healthy-looking. I shout about it to anyone who will listen. Story continues La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer for Oily Skin ($32) We love French drugstore staple brand La Roche-Posay because the quality of its products often feels about 10 times their actual dollar weight. For oily skin types, we recommend this daily face moisturizer, in particular. It keeps skin matte but still radiant thanks to salicylic acid, a rush of antioxidants, and vitamins C and E. Murad Oil-Control Mattifier ($42) If fighting oiliness and blemishes is a daily war you no longer care to wage, we're happy to introduce you to Murad's top-notch grease-patrolling face moisturizer. You still get the essential hydration your skin craves (pro tip: never starve your skin of moisturizer no matter how oily you are!), but the brand's unique formula helps absorb the excess stuff for up to eight hours post-application. Plus, you'll also get a handy dose of sun protection. SkinCeuticals Renew Overnight Oily ($82) Many of our favorite SkinCeuticals formulas pose potential threats to our bank accounts (we're talking over $150 for one product), but this expert face moisturizer comes in at $82especially once you realize how little you need to apply. Fortified with a 10% hydroxy acid complex to lift away dead skin, a botanical medley to treat blemishes and congestion, and lightweight oils that infuse the skin with moisturenot acne this nighttime face cream keeps even the oiliest of skin happy and balanced. Sensitive Bliss Rose Gold Rescue Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin ($20) This ultra-light face moisturizer from Bliss kind of feels like liquid velvet. No added fragrances, no oily aftermath, and no harsh ingredients. Instead, it features super-calming healers like rose flower and colloidal gold to help sensitive skin types feel calm, cool, and collected. Avene Tolerance Extreme Cream ($38) Avene is one of those lesser-known skincare brands that all the best skincare gurus in the business basically fawn over. This fragrance-free, face-healing moisturizer is a perfect example and offers even the most hypersensitive skin with irritation-free skin drench. The secret? The brand's signature ingredient, spring water. Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream ($32) Kiehl's is known as one of the best names in the industry for a reason. Its skin-loving formulas really work. This calming number is a fan favorite and treats sensitive skin with utmost TLC thanks to squalane and glacial glycoprotein, which, according to the brand, hydrates, protects, and discourages unwanted water loss. Oh, and did we mention that this face moisturizer promises 24-hour long nourishment? Just some food for thought. Ren Clean Skincare Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream ($49) Formulated with sensitive skin in mind, this clean pick from Ren is one of our newest fave formulas. It's the brand's top-selling moisturizer and keeps discomfort and discoloration at bay by utilizing strategic ingredients like omega fatty acids, Roman chamomile, green tea, and more. Normal Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer ($68) Tip: Never bring this cult-loved face moisturizer up in conversation during a social gathering, because it generally incites product-obsessing chaos. Great for all skin types, it's a consistent top seller and boasts a nine signal peptide complex, pygmy waterlily stem cell extract, and soybean folic acid ferment extract for improved texture, tone, and firmness. Emma Hardie Moisture Boost Vit+C Cream ($69) Everyone's craving vitamin C serums these days, but why start there? This is by far one of the best under-the-radar face moisturizers on the market, and it's specifically formulated with mega-brightening agents like vitamin C, yes, but also other MVP power players like niacinamide, red algae extract, shea butter, probiotics, peptides, antioxidants, and beautifying herbal extracts. La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream ($510) Yes, this gal is expensive, but if you're into all things ultra luxurious and equally efficacious, it just might be worth busting your bank account. It's made in Switzerland and infused with the brand's holy-grail Cellular Complex, alpha hydroxy acids (for exfoliation), and other mega-watt hydrators enhanced with caviar premier for above-and-beyond suppleness and firmness. La Mer The Concentrate ($370) Newly designed with super-chic packaging, this investment piece is another holy-grail investment that both estheticians and makeup artists practically salivate over in order to give their celeb clientele an otherworldly glow. True to the brand, the concentrate features the cell-renewing Miracle Broth contained in all its potions. This treatment is just a little more restorative and a little more luxurious. Dry Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream ($68) The newest addition to the Tatcha family of skincare covetables, this dreamy face cream is all anybody and everybody is talking about within the skincare community. It's specifically formulated to rehydrate parched skin and uses antioxidant-packed Japanese skincare secrets in the forms of purple rice, Okinawa algae, and botanicals like ginseng, sweet marjoram, and thyme to keep even the most desert-like of complexions on bright, brilliant behavior (no flakes allowed). Glow Recipe Watermelon Pink Juice Moisturizer ($39) Forget green juice, and meet pink juicefor your face. The people love Glow Recipe (as an editor, I receive so many glowing DMsno pun intended), and this top seller from the brand is a home run for those who especially struggle with dryness. Watermelon, obviously, is the formula's hero ingredient, but it's anchored by other juicy sips like hyaluronic acid and botanicals. The effect is further amplified if paired with the Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist ($28), the brand's newest play. Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream ($65) If extreme moisture relief is what you seek, look no further than this water hose of a moisturizer from Sunday Riley. Not only does it hydrate, but it also brightens and refines thanks to two forms of hyaluronic acid (the LeBron of moisture in the league of skincare), tamarind extract, papaya enzymes, and alpha-arbutin. Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream ($13) Makeup artists love, love, love to prep and prime celebrities' faces with this Swiss skin elixir, and even though it's technically labeled as a baby cream, it's magic for the face, too. Plus, it's one of the most affordable in the bunch. Essential fatty acids, vitamin E, organic pansy, and organic calendula flower are there to help with all your dry-skin woes. Combination Dr. Barbara Sturm Darker Skin Tones Face Cream ($230) Super nourishing in formulation, this soft and soothing German-made face moisturizer was specially developed with for women of color with normal to combination skin types. The lusty ingredient roster includes fares like magnolia and Enantia Chlorantha bark to refine the appearance of pores, control sebum, and nourish with hydration. Plus, it will also boost your natural luminosity thanks to the brand's active ingredient, Lumicol. Farmacy Honey Drop Lightweight Moisturizer With Echinacea GreenEnvy ($45) This best-of-the-best face moisturizer is actually well-suited for all skin types, but we especially recommend it for those with combination skin. Its concoction of antioxidant-rich honey, hyaluronic acid, and golden cupuacu butter beads (try saying that five times fast!) keep it lightweight enough to stave off oil and breakouts but hydrating enough to never leave you feeling thirsty. Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Cream ($48) Loaded with skin-boosting superfoods in true Youth to the People fashion, this hydration-rich face moisturizer is heaven-sent for those who can veer either dry or oily. Kale, spinach, green tea, and hyaluronic are our favorite ingredient highlights. Grown Alchemist Matte Balancing Moisturizer ($69) If it's a testament to how much an all-star moisturizer for combination skin this cute cream tube is, I use it regularly and also slather it on my 70-year-old mom and dad whenever I get the chance during visits home. It's so lovely. It's lightweight, it's hydrating, and it's never left me feeling clogged, parched, or with any other icky skin symptoms. Blame the pretty lineup of acai berry, borage oil, fatty acids, and sesame seed oil. Next up: 3 Budgets, 3 Smart Skincare Routines Broken Down by Cost Per Wear This article was originally published at am earlier date and has been updated. This article originally appeared on Who What Wear Read More from Who What Wear U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials detained a 9-year-old girl and U.S. citizen for more than 30 hours because she "provided inconsistent information during her inspection" at a port of entry, NBC7 reports. Julia Isabel Amparo Medina is a Tijuana resident who attends school in the district of San Ysidro in San Diego, CA. The girl was traveling with her mother Thelma Galaxia, her 14-year-old brother Oscar, a family friend, and her two children Monday morning on their way to school. Galaxia told NBC7 that because traffic was moving slowly at the San Ysidro port of entry, the two women told the children to cross on foot instead so she could call them an Uber that would take them to school on time. (An estimated 25,000 people, including U.S.-born students living in Mexico, cross the border between Tijuana and San Ysidro on foot every day. The Medinas' U.S. citizenship allows them the right to public education.) But according to Galaxia, her children never made it across to the U.S. because Border Patrol officials detained them. The family alleges CBP accused the girl of lying about her identity after saying she didn't resemble her passport card picture, which was taken when she was younger. Officials allegedly told the 9-year-old that they believed she was someone else. My daughter told her brother that the officer told her that if she admitted that she was her cousin, she would be released soon so she could see her mom, Galaxia told NBC. Officers allegedly made Oscar sign a document stating this, while the teen says he only agreed to it because he wanted to be reunited with his little sister. Oscar was released later Monday. However, the process of reuniting the girl and her family took a day and a half. Customs and Border Protection stood by its decision to detain Julia. "Its important that CBP officials positively confirm the identity of a child travelling without a parent or legal guardian, CBP Public Affairs officer Jackie Wasiluk said in a statement. But the agency has not explained why the process took 32 hours. Story continues I was scared. I was sad because I didn't have my mom or my brother," Julia told NBC. "I was completely by myself." Photo: Courtesy of NBC. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here? Georgia Senate Passes Bill Banning Abortion Once A Fetal Heartbeat Is Detected New Zealand Women Wear Headscarves To Support Muslims After Christchurch Shooting Parkland Shooting Survivor Sydney Aiello Has Died By Suicide At 19 Shane White/Shutterstock March 22, 2019 Unsafe levels of lead are lurking in the drinking water of schools across the country, according to an alarming report released Thursday. The report, Get the Lead Out, published by the Environment America Research & Policy Center and U.S. Public Research Interest Group Education Fund, reveals water from thousands of faucets and fountains at schools and preschools in America contained more than 1 part per billion (ppb) of lead. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends water lead concentrations don't exceed 1 ppb. Most schools tested had five times that amount. Others had even more, including Leicester Memorial Elementary in Massachusetts which had a tap that tested at 22,400 ppb. Even low levels of lead exposure can affect children's brain development and possibly lower their IQ, says Morri Markowitz, M.D., a pediatrician and director of the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore in the Bronx, New York, who consulted on the report. It has also been linked to learning and behavioral problems. The metal is especially toxic to young children, who absorb up to five times more of the lead they ingest than adults do. It's not news that lead is bad for usthat's why the toxin has been removed from gasoline and paint over the years. And the federal Lead and Copper Rule was passed in 1991, which limits the amount of lead in public drinking water. So why is the toxic metal still so prevalent in schools? A Look at a Widespread Problem According to the new report, school drinking water is picking up the metal from service lines, pipes and plumbing, and lead-lined fountains and faucets. These systems should be regulated by state and local lawsbut those are falling short. "Unfortunately, even with the increase we've seen in school's testing their water for lead over the past few years, our results show a major, extensive problem," says John Rumpler, co-author of the report and senior director of Clean Water for America. "From Washington to Montana to Massachusetts, policymakers aren't doing enough to make sure our kids have safe drinking water every day." Story continues The report graded 31 states and the District of Columbia on their efforts to protect children from lead in school water. It evaluated factors like how and when they require water testing and how much information they share with parents and the public. Twenty-two of the states received a failing grade. "Some of these states have no laws that address lead contamination, while others use unreliable tests to monitor the issue," Rumpler explains. No states received an A grade, but the District of Columbia topped the list with a B+. It's the only area of the country that requires schools and child care centers to install filters at every tap used for drinking or cooking. It also tests school water every year and publishes the testing data online. Illinois got the second-highest mark with a B-. The state's Department of Health requires schools to take action if they detect any level of lead in their drinking water. However, Rumpler says, the state could improve by offering schools clear guidelines on exactly how to fix the problem. A few other states, including Massachusetts, Vermont, Washington, Pennsylvania, and Montana, have taken action by proposing laws that, if and when adopted, could help boost their grades. Rumpler says the remaining 19 states were not included in the report because initial research showed they didn't have any related laws or regulations to evaluate. What Parents Can Do The report includes a host of recommendations for federal lawmakers, such as strengthening rules around drinking water and providing funding to help states remove lead-laden plumbing, but that kind of change will take some time. In the meantime, there are several things parents can do to reduce their children's exposure to the toxin in schools. "Parents shouldn't approach this with hysteria, thinking that their children are damaged," Dr. Markowitz says. "But we know there are no healthy levels of lead, so it's a good idea to take steps to reduce their exposure as much as possible." Rumpler says parents should contact their child's school to find out if the water has been tested for lead, and ask to view the test results. (Some schools are only required to report lead levels above 15 ppb.) "An initial, cost-effective step is to ask your school to put filters on every faucet and drinking fountain," Rumpler says. "Don't forget the cooking water faucets, too. Experts say if there's lead in the water you use to boil pasta for mac and cheese, there's going to be lead in that mac and cheese." A next step would be to ask the school to replace any lead-lined drinking fountains with water bottle filling stations that have built-in filters. And you could also send your child to school with bottled water, Rumpler says, but keep in mind that the standard for lead levels in bottled water is 5 ppb. "It may be an improvement, but it's not the best long-term solution," he says. Or consider splurging on a water bottle with a built-in filter that gets rid of lead, like the Alter Ego Frio from Aquaovo. Concerned parents can also take it a step further and contact their state's governor to urge him or her to take action against lead in drinking water. "As parents, we care deeply about our kids' future," Rumpler says, "and we'd hate to think their health was compromised by something we take for granted, like safe drinking water." We interviewed the family founders of Ormaie Paris about the poetry behind their perfume We talked the mother and son duo behind Ormaie Paris about the stories behind each of their seven non-synthetic perfumes. Sadly, the act of stripping away the poetry of perfuming and pumping formulas full of synthetic ingredients is par for the course. Most companies approach scent from the angle of sales analytics and predictive marketing tactics, rather than bolstering perfuming as an act of storytelling. This is precisely why the mother-and-son duo, Marie-Lise Jonak and Baptiste Bouygues, wanted to go their own way when launching Ormaie Paris. The name itself, Ormaie, is French for a grove of elm trees. All seven of the perfumes are unisex and completely natural (non-synthetic). The founders got the idea to collaborate when Bouygues, who has worked for Louis Vuitton and Givenchy, decided to take the leap to create a luxury fragrance. Since Jonak had already worked as a veteran fragrance consultant for years, the collaboration felt both natural and inevitable. The family collaboration started back in 2016, and the past two years have been spent figuring out how to marry a sustainable business model to the romance of luxury perfume. Through persistence, Bouygues was able to find a handful of perfumers who specialize in working with raw ingredients. They were also able to enlist the only glassmaker in France who recycles their magma to design different sculptural bottles for each fragrance. The tops of the bottles are hand-carved out of beech wood sourced from renewable forests in France, and the labels are printed in gold at the fine art shop, Imprimerie du Marais. Even the manifesto for the brand comes in the shape of a poem written by the photographer and writer Guillaume De Sardes. This attention to detail is very intentionalBouygues and Jonak set out to create perfume that is also an art object, a sculpture you can keep long after the smell is emptied and faded. While the creation process feels imaginative in itself, its the titles of each fragrance that dig in to tell a story. Les Passant, which means the passerby is a scent inspired by the sensation of passing a mysterious attractive person on the street: someone who smells good and gives off a romantic vibe. The lavender-based formula was inspired by a cologne Jonaks husband, Bouyguess late father, wore for years. Similarly, the scent Yvonne is named after Jonaks mother, the matriarch of the family, and while all the perfumes are meant to be unisex, Yvonne gives the wearer a distinctly feminine fragrance full of roses and chypres. Story continues HelloGiggles spoke with Baptiste Bouygues in order to get a deeper sense of the stories behind Ormaie Paris, the process of perfuming, and how different artists inspired the fragrances. HelloGiggles: What is one of your first memories of scent? Did you have a favorite smell as a child? Baptiste Bouygues: Its probably the smell of rain in summer. When the drops of water hit the dry floor, there is a very peculiar smell that everyone knows and that I find very soothing. This smell actually has a beautiful name: petrichor. It is a very interesting scent that humans perceive very quickly, even if there is a very small quantity. It probably dates back to times when humans needed to know in periods of drought where they could find water. HG: What first drew you to become a perfumer? BB: There is something special about smell. It is a direct access to memory and emotion. Scents are unbelievable; they make you travel in space and time; they make you love a person, and at the same time, it is a very primitive idea. HG: Has a movie or piece of music or art ever inspired any of your fragrances? BB: Of course, all forms of art dialogue with one another. When we made Llvree Bleue, for example, that is a very narcotic scent reminiscent of exotic forests. It is hard not to think of the painting of Gauguin, or of the Douanier Rousseau, or of books such as The Heart of Darkness. I think the pieces of art that touched us throughout our lives have definitely inspired us, and you can find hints of them in everything we do: the scents, the bottles, the texts we writeall of it. HG: How does being a family affect the business model of Ormaie Paris? BB: A family business allows for a common vision to be shared. It allows us to put creativity first and to make no concessions on the quality and the beauty of the product. It also allows us to build very special relationships with craftsmen and artists and to take our time. Everything from the names of your perfumes to the shapes of the bottles is very personal. Do you view the process as poetry in a sense?[/subheader] BB: There is definitely an artistic process in what we do. We put a lot of our emotions into the things we create, and a lot of the process is very personal. We try to translate these emotions into beautiful scents, bottles, even pictures. I think all people who create draw inspiration from their lives and have a need to translate those emotions into something tangible. It is a very beautiful compliment to say it is a similar process to poetry because it starts with an emotiona need to createand only takes shape through a lot of iterations and a lot of work. Some poets can work endless hours on one sentence and that is an approach we definitely can relate to closely. HG: What emotions do you hope Ormaie Paris fragrances will evoke? It was important for us to make something happy, inspiring and something that would bring joy to people when it came to the bottle. It is very complex to have a beautiful object full of craftsmanship that makes people happy. After, what is so special about smell, is that it will take you back to a very personal place. I was having coffee yesterday with an artist and when she smelled 28 , it brought her back to her summer holidays as a kid next to the lakes, and you could see in her eyes that she left for just a second. That is a beautiful feeling. HG: What is a current scent you wear near daily? BB: I alternate between Les Brumes and Le Passant. I love the citrus and the woods of Les Brumes; its the idea of the mist on a citrus field. Le Passant was very difficult to make; it was a very important memory for us. We wanted a very elegant lavender that was soft, with vanilla. I love wearing it. BAGHOUZ, Syria (AP) U.S.-backed forces declared military victory over the Islamic State group in Syria on Saturday after liberating the last pocket of territory held by the militants, marking the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. The nearly five-year war that has devastated cities and towns across north Syria and Iraq ended in Baghouz, a minor border village where the cornered militants made their last stand, under a grueling siege for weeks. On Saturday, the Syrian Democratic Forces raised their bright yellow banner from a shell-pocked house where the militants once flew their notorious black flag. Below it stretched a field shattered by the battle, pitted by trenches and bomb craters and littered with scorched tents, twisted wreckage of burned out vehicles, unspent explosives and few remaining corpses. "Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved," tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF, referring to IS by its Arabic acronym. The fall of Baghouz brings to a close a nearly 5-year global campaign against the Islamic State group that raged in two countries, spanned two U.S. presidencies and saw a U.S.-led coalition unleash more than 100,000 strikes. The campaign has left a trail of destruction in cities in Iraq and Syria, likely killed tens of thousands and drove hundreds of thousands from their homes. The campaign put an end to the militants' proto-state, which at its height four years ago was the size of Britain and home to some 8 million people. But the extremist group still maintains a scattered presence and sleeper cells across Syria and Iraq. It's not known whether the group's leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is still alive or where he might be hiding. IS affiliates in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, Afghanistan and other countries continue to pose a threat, and the group's ideology has inspired so-called lone-wolf attacks that had little if any connection to its leadership. Story continues The "caliphate's" end also marks a new phase in Syria's civil war, now in its ninth year. The country is carved up, with the Iranian- and Russian-backed government of President Bashar Assad controlling the west, center and south, the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led forces holding the north and east, and Turkish allies controlling a pocket in the north. The fear now is of new conflict among those players. At a ceremony held later Saturday at the nearby al-Omar oil field base, a senior U.S. diplomat, William Roebuck, said the territorial defeat of the Islamic State group is a "critical milestone" that delivers a crushing and strategic blow to the extremist group. But he stressed it remains a significant threat. "We still have much work to do to achieve an enduring defeat of IS," he said. The commander in chief of the SDF, Gen. Mazloum Abdi, appealed for continued assistance to his group until the full eradication of the extremist group. He spoke at the ceremony during which fighters marched to a military band. The victory declaration sets the stage for President Donald Trump to begin withdrawing most of the 2,000 U.S. troops stationed in northern Syria, as he abruptly announced in December that he would do. Trump, however, later agreed to leave a small peacekeeping force of 200 soldiers in Syria to ensure Turkey will not get into a conflict with the SDF. Turkey views Kurdish members of the SDF as terrorists. The Kurds fear being abandoned by the Americans. They are squeezed between a belligerent Turkey from the north, which regards them as a national threat and Syrian President Bashar Assad's forces from the south. Saturday's announcement came a day after Trump declared that Islamic State militants no longer control any territory in Syria, a victory he had been teasing for days. Associated Press journalists in Baghouz on Saturday, however, reported hearing mortars and gunfire directed toward a cliff overlooking the village, where U.S.-led coalition airstrikes were carried out a day earlier. SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel said Friday there were IS fighters hiding in caves near Baghouz and that clearing operations were still underway. The site of IS's last stand was centered on a tent encampment in Baghouz where, unknown to the besieging SDF forces, thousands of civilians were holed up. During the weeks-long siege, an estimate 30,000 men, women and children were evacuated from the pocket, most of them IS family members, a mix of Syrians, Iraqis and foreigners. They were exhausted, hungry, many of them wounded and traumatized by the loss of relatives, but some remained die-hard supporters of the "caliphate." On Saturday, journalists were taken to the encampment a wasteland of wrecked vehicles, torn tents and scorched trees. A few bodies could be seen and a faint smell of rotting corpses hung in the air. Scattered across the dirt amid empty foxholes and trenches were personal belongings, blankets, generators, oil barrels, water tanks and satellite dishes. Cars and motorcycles were turned to rusted, twisted heaps of metal. There were unused rockets, mortars and grenades, as well as a pile of suicide vests. Ciya Kobani, an SDF commander, announced the end of the operation from the roof of the building with the SDF flag: "We have been victorious against Daesh," he declared. At its height, the Islamic State group ruled a third of both Syria and Iraq, holding millions hostage to its harsh and violent interpretation of Islamic law. The group carried out massacres and documented them with slickly produced videos circulated online. It beheaded foreign journalists and aid workers and burned alive a captured Jordanian pilot. During a rampage through Iraq's Sinjar region in 2014, it captured thousands of women and girls from the Yazidi religious minority and forced them into sexual slavery. Many remain missing to this day. The group also used its caliphate as a launchpad for attacks around the globe, including the assaults in Paris in 2015 that killed more than 130 people. French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted that "a major danger to our country is now eliminated, yet the threat remains and the fight against terrorist groups must continue." France has been a member of the coalition fighting the IS since 2014. While it imposed its unforgiving interpretation of Islamic law through public beheadings and crucifixions, the group also carried out the mundane duties of governance in its territories, including regulating prices at markets and repairing infrastructure. Cornered in Baghouz, the group fought fiercely and desperately to hang on to the last shred of territory it controlled, using thousands of civilians, including women and children, as human shields. In the final weeks, they streamed out of Baghouz, bedraggled, angry and hungry, overwhelming Kurdish-run camps in northern Syria where they are being held. Aid organizations say more than 100 people have died in the journey from Baghouz to the al-Hol camp in Hassakeh province, or soon after arriving. ___ Associated Press writer Zeina Karam in Beirut contributed to this report. Dolly Parton has made it a priority to help those in the Great Smoky Mountains following the devastation of the 2016 wildfires. Not only did she put on a telethon which raised around $9 million, but she also pledged to donate $1,000 each month to Tennessee families who lost their homes for six month following the wildfires. (Thanks to an influx of donations, families wound up getting $10,000 in financial help.) Now, the Queen of Country has made another incredible gesture through The Dollywood Foundation's My People Fund a $200,000 donation to eight Sevier County volunteer fire departments and the training center in Sevier County. Parton made the announcement on her website Monday, sharing that "[it] is only fitting that the last of the My People Fund will go to those who were the first to respond to the fires." Each local volunteer fire department received $20,000 and $40,000 was given to teh area training center. Tim Baker, Chief of Waldens Creek Volunteer Fire Department and current President of the Sevier County Fire Chiefs Association said in the press release, "We are so thankful for this donation to all of the fire departments and for our training center," adding that Waldens Creek would use part of the money to buy gear and replace the firehouse's roof. The money designated for the training center will fund the creation of a new classroom. Read the full announcement here. One great way to help Dolly's hometown area? Plan a trip to the Smokies your dollars and tourism in the region can help this beloved part of the country recover and thrive. Photo credit: Kathryn Wirsing/Danielle Daly From Oprah Magazine Even in the bleakest of settings-like a chilly, dimly-lit studio in Midtown Manhattan-Winston Duke is never without a smile. Its the first thing anyone would notice about him, right after his towering height, fresh haircut, and the faint trace of a Tobagonian accent. Perhaps that's why, even at 6 feet, 5 inches and 230 pounds, the actor seems approachable...despite the fact that hes towering over two publicists and the photographer responsible for capturing every inch of his frame. Or maybe its because the way hes two-stepping to Silk City and Dua Lipas 2017 hit song Electricity would make anyone want to dance alongside him. Every time the camera clicks, Duke tilts his head back and lets out a rich, throaty laugh. Its the same deep, husky sound of merriment he delivered during his portrayal of MBaku, the leader of the mountainous Jabari tribe in the 2018 blockbuster Black Panther. And his gentle giant qualities have certainly served him well. This year, he'd moved from one larger-than-life character to the next: On big screens around the country, moviegoers can now catch Duke as Gabe Wilson, a married father of two in Jordan Peeles new social thriller film, Us. Photo credit: Kathryn Wirsing/Danielle Daly Still, the more Duke rises, the more he is cognizant of Hollywoods propensity to typecast domineering Black actors like himself. But Duke is not interested in simply portraying Black men as intimidating. In fact, in Us, he does just the opposite, reclaiming the narrative around masculinity in a society that tells him that because of his size and skin color he should look, feel, and think a certain way. But in this story, Duke's character is secure enough in his manhood to let the women lead-and in real life, Duke is showing by example that strength comes in all different sizes, packages, and genders. After Black Panther, a lot of the roles that came my way were these tough guy, bruiser types who have a heart of gold, Duke says about the Black-led Marvel film that went on to become the highest-grossing superhero movie in the country. Weve all seen that guy before. I really want to be able to express myself in unconventional ways that pop culture doesnt readily afford. Those are the roles I seek out-like Gabe, because a lot of men live within the spectrum of masculinity. You just dont see it that often on screen. Story continues Without giving too much away, in Us, Gabe embarks on a family getaway to Santa Cruz with his wife, Adelaide, played by the brilliantly frightening Lupita Nyongo, plus their two kids, Zora (Shahadi Wright Joseph) and Jason (Evan Alex). Their vacation quickly turns into a nightmare when eerie dopplegangers who just so happen to look like the Wilsons show up on the doorstep of Adelaides childhood beachfront home. For his part, Duke brings much more to Peeles visceral horror film than a physically imposing presence balanced by warm facial expressions. Theres heft in Dukes depiction of Gabe, who is forced to spring into protective mode for his family. What drew me to the character of Gabe was that he was never any one thing in any moment throughout the film, the 32-year-old says. He changed from being an aloof father who sees the world through a lens of patriarchal manhood, to being a better partner for Adelaide as the movie goes along. He has a really great character arc thats not the classic, stoic cowboy with a hard edge. Gabe is expressive. Hes both sexy and sexual, while also being playful. With Black men on screen, its usually very monolithic; I just had a great time playing the different spectrums of the character. All at once in Us, Duke has to invoke fear and succumb to vulnerability, while deploying comedic one-liners that add just the right amount of levity to the movies scariest moments. Of course, Duke isnt the only actor in Peeles latest who digs deep for their performance. Nyongo, Wright, Alex, Elisabeth Moss, and Tim Heidecker all play dual roles, enrobing themselves in red jumpsuits and leather fingerless gloves to embody the frightening essence of their characters' monstrous twins. The result is a story that will have you on the edge of your seat-yelling run! at the screen-while also questioning your identity and the blurred lines between good and evil. Photo credit: Kathryn Wirsing/Danielle Daly Duke describes the differences between his character, Gabe, and his characters doppelganger as examples of what happens when one person has proximity to privilege, and one doesnt. That nuance is thanks to the direction of Peele, who-just like he did in his Oscar-winning first film Get Out-always finds a way to breathe life into complex characters while placing them in uncomfortable situations. But most importantly, Peele dares viewers to hold a mirror up to themselves, in hopes that they will come to terms with the fact that we can be our own worst enemies when power and wealth go unchecked. Jordan took this ordinary family dynamic and warped it to really make you look at the monsters we create, Duke says. You end up asking yourself whether the violence is perpetrated with scissors as the weapon-or if the violence is rooted in oppression. Its the reflection staring back at us that Duke wants you to pay close attention to when watching this social thriller, in addition to pondering the big questions. These are questions that may not beg for immediate answers, but prompt the kind of dialogue that will have audiences sitting in the theater debating long after the credits have rolled. For starters: What does it mean to finally have an affluent Black family front and center in a scary flick-with a character who doesnt die in the first 15 minutes? And after the inevitable success of Us, will Hollywood finally understand that Black actors and creators can offer more to the horror genre than Blaxploitation movies and creepy hood tales? This is a time in culture when we get to tell these stories, challenge perception, and interrogate Black psychology in film, says Duke. When it comes to films like Us, Get Out, Moonlight, and Sorry to Bother You, there are a lot of strong Black directors interrogating the concept of not being any one thing. Youre a product of your environment, and youre susceptible to environmental forces. That really changes how your mind works. Photo credit: Kathryn Wirsing/Danielle Daly Transformation of the mind is something the actor is intimately familiar with. Around the age of 9, Duke emigrated with his single mother and older sister from Trinidad and Tobagos small village of Argyle to Brooklyn, New York, so his sister could pursue her dreams of becoming a doctor. As an introverted kid, Duke struggled with assimilating to a foreign culture. Still, despite spending his formidable years on the East Coast, he says he now not only understands the significance of having Black representation on the silver screen, but he is also humbled by the weight of carrying the torch of the Caribbean-born artists before him. It feels great to be a footprint of my own people, and to give them a sense of pride in a space where they dont always see themselves, he says. At least now they can say, Hey: Our food, our upbringing, and all those things helped create that guy, and hes sharing our paradigms in a way that affects others-so in some degree, we can also influence others. Driven by a need to tell stories, Duke finally found his footing in high school. At the encouragement of one of his Spanish teachers-who noticed Duke exhibited a certain flair when presenting in front of his peers-he joined the schools theater club, and soon graduated to attend the University of Buffalo and study theater. His enrollment in a master of fine arts program at the Yale School of Drama, however, is when everything came full circle for the budding actor. On his very first day, Duke met a young woman named Lupita Nyongo, who greeted him with a smile and showed him around campus. Duke later joined a theater group for actors of color along with Nyongo, a group that, coincidentally, was co-founded by their future fellow Black Panther star and Yale graduate, Angela Bassett. Nearly a decade later, the pair has shared on-screen moments in both Black Panther and now, Us. And Duke doesnt hesitate to offer up the valuable insight hes gained from the 36-year-old Oscar-winning actress. Lupita leads by example, Duke says. When it comes to the kind of artist and business person that I could be in the industry, I can see that because a friend of mine is doing it, its possible for me too. Shes given me financial advice on how to set up my team and the organization around myself. Its an ongoing relationship of conversation." Photo credit: Kathryn Wirsing/Danielle Daly Before his big break in Black Panther, however, Duke, like most actors, had to take on small roles, starting out with bit parts in series like Person of Interest, Law & Order, and Modern Family. Though his passion for acting never waned, the trying period of constantly auditioning and waiting for his big break tested Duke; he admits to often questioning whether he should give up acting and seek out another profession. When I couldnt understand why I wasnt booking more jobs, the thought of quitting always surfaced, Duke says. But I was being prepared and set up for the hardships to come. It taught me patience, resilience, and how to be steadfast. After enduring that, now, I know that if I keep doing the work, the success will come. And the accolades and opportunities have arrived-suddenly, and at breakneck speed, with no signs of slowing down. Fortunately, Duke says his family and friends have kept him grounded, and his mother and sister often accompany him on whirlwind promotional tours. Crowding his inner circle with those who know him best is a deliberate effort; Duke says its the only way he can maintain any sense of order when it comes to his newfound fame. I keep my family around and the friends whove helped me to grow as a person, because Im interested in growth and process, Duke says. These are the people who have taught me about race, power, privilege, gender, and the LGBTQ community, and helped me to grasp a better understanding around these sensitive subjects. I cant always control the impact of something or the finished product, but I can control the process going around me and the amount of time I give to people who are both healthy and unhealthy to me. Photo credit: Kathryn Wirsing/Danielle Daly And on that note, Duke begins to slouch comfortably into a plush gray chair, yawning after a long day of doing interviews and posing for photos. He says he doesnt have any complaints, though, about his grueling schedule, which most recently included landing in London one night and waking up in Berlin the next day. But instead of succumbing to his fatigue, Duke perks up at the mention of the Us premiere hes headed to that evening. Im excited that people are finally going to meet the film, he says. This movie, largely, talks about power and privilege, and how your privilege affects others you render invisible and silent. You will leave wondering who bears the weight of your decisions. It doesnt let anyone off the hook. For a moment, he is very serious as he ponders the responsibility of challenging the culture's perception of him as a Black man. But after a few moments, he re-positions his tweed coat, and then, it's back: That signature Winston Duke smile. And as he walks out of the studio, his hearty laugh trails behind him. Photography: Kathryn Wirsing assisted by Danielle Daly; Videographer: Rashawn Colton; Groomer: Martyse Lewis; Makeup: Laila Hayani; Stylist: Jenny Ricker. For more ways to live your best life plus all things Oprah, sign up for our newsletter! Photo credit: Design by Erin Lux From Harper's BAZAAR Unless youre a New Zealander, I dont think you can truly understand the sheer disbelief that flooded us, simultaneously, as Kiwis, this time last week. I was in Finland, and when I woke up I rubbed my eyes because I thought Id misread Christchurch on the breaking news alert. In America, your children go through school shooting drills; in New Zealand, parents in Christchurch this week have had to explain to their children why the usually unarmed police officers are carrying assault rifles. We had no playbook for a white supremacist terrorist killing 50 people at two mosques on a Friday afternoon, so we quickly made one: in just six days, politicians on both sides agreed to sweeping gun law reforms, including a ban on semi-automatics, assault rifles, and high capacity magazines. Contrast that to the United States, where there has been 62 mass shootings already this year, and 113 people were shot at school last year. Your politicians, bewilderingly, continue to do nothing except deliver divisive, glib statements scattered with thoughts and prayers. Its made me really proud to be a New Zealander. Proud to be from a country that can quickly recognize the right thing to do (ban assault rifles), and just do it. Kind of like when we, despite being a powerless country at the bottom of the world, stood up to America, France, and other global powers, by deciding to be nuclear free-that was also, incidentally, the cause of our last terror attack, in 1985. And while theres been a lot of praise worldwide for our reaction to Fridays massacre, and for our Prime Minister, Jacinda Arden's reaction, Ive also seen confusion-how can two western democracies react to gun violence so differently? Especially two western democracies that, up until now, have had similarly high gun ownership. Were both outliers in not having a gun register, despite there being more than 1.2 million guns owned by 250,000 New Zealanders, in a country of less than five million. Story continues The glaringly obvious difference is that we, thankfully, dont have an antiquated law that says, or at least has been interpreted as saying, everyone has the right to own a gun. But even if we did, I dont actually think it would matter that much. One hundred and twenty six years ago women did not have the right to vote in New Zealand. We realized that was wrong, so we-the first country in the world to do so-changed it. Because we know that something being enshrined in law doesnt make it above criticism; nor does it mean it should never change. Beyond not having what is arguably a deadly constitution, I believe our swift ban is largely down to our national psyche-who we are, collectively, as a nation. We dont value guns like you do in the U.S. Most New Zealanders either dont care about gun rights ( only 102 people voiced an opinion on a 2017 gun law inquiry), or at least see ownership as a privilege, not a right; our police dont carry guns (theyre locked in the trunk of their cars, for use in moments, sadly, like this one); nobody close to me has ever even held a gun, and for the few acquaintances who have, its been for a non-violent purpose-hunting, killing livestock, etc.-because youre not actually allowed to own guns for the sole purpose of self-defense. Gun-violence is so uncommon in New Zealand that when our armed police are deployed ( our version of SWAT ), it becomes breaking national news. Kiwis, me included, freak out when they see a cop holding a gun. As a country, were big on agriculture (dairy is our biggest export), and we have a lot of land (New Zealand is actually larger than the U.K.), but that land is sparsely populated; around 86 percent of Kiwis live in cities, meaning were basically a very urban, very liberal country when it comes to guns. We recognize that guns kill people, and most Kiwis I know, up until a week ago, didnt even know assault rifles could be purchased in New Zealand. In America, you sell them at Walmart to people who arent even old enough to buy beer. Our lack of a gun culture is, I believe, the beautiful anchor thats kept us level-headed; able to avoid the roadblocks that continue to prevent the U.S. enacting meaningful, positive gun reform. Theres an understanding amongst gun owners in New Zealand that politicians arent trying to take away all of their guns. Most know its a necessary balancing act between gun freedoms and making it hard for terrorists to terrorize. But, just like in the U.S., there are some gun owners who believe any reform is a slippery slope to the banning of all guns. Gun stores in New Zealand sold out of semi-automatics as gun enthusiasts panic - bought in the wake of a ban. And, like the U.S., our gun lobby is also powerful-it was even offered help from your NRA after the attacks. But thankfully, pro-gun advocates are not the majority, so the lobby is forced to operate in silence. Because of our lack of a gun culture, our gun lobby, crucially, is not vocally powerful like your NRA. A necessary but quick lesson in New Zealand politics: Our Government is currently a Labour-led coalition ( Labour is basically New Zealands Democratic Party ), and the National Party ( our version of your Republican Party except much more moderate and centrist ) is in opposition. Most gun owners live in rural areas, have guns for agricultural reasons, and vote National. Unlike in the U.S., New Zealands gun owning voting block just isnt big enough to win an election. Even if, hypothetically, National disagreed with Arden's swift gun reforms, politically, it had no choice but to publicly support them because thats what voters overwhelmingly want. Simply, it would have been political suicide, even for the party that has the support of gun owners, to publicly argue to keep military-style guns that did as they were designed to do: kill many quickly. Analogously, itd be kind-of like if the gun reform movement in the U.S. became loud and large enough that Donald Trump had to support its proposed policies, because he recognized that if he didnt, there was no chance of reelection-no amount of NRA money can silence a vocal voting majority. But were far from perfect; while Im proud to be from a country that only needed one tragedy to fix our gun laws, Im also frustrated we needed a tragedy in the first place. We should have learned from Australia, which 22 years ago , made similar changes to its gun laws. In 1996, after 35 people died at the hands of a gunman with a semi-automatic, Australia banned semi-automatics. They havent had a mass shooting since. But we didnt follow, and despite repeated warnings about the availability and prevalence of semi-automatic guns, the New Zealand government did little. Reform attempts were made in 2005, 2012, and 2017, but nothing really changed, legislatively, in 26 years. The inaction was, I believe, largely down to apathy. Most Kiwis ignorantly assumed we didnt have a gun problem, so most paid little attention to reporting on guns, or politicians actions when it came to gun laws. Then 50 people died, and we collectively demanded change. The final piece of the puzzle, the key reason we took gun reform action, while you still havent, is our Prime Minister. Last weeks horrific, unprecedented, unexpected terrorist attack was obviously the catalyst for our reform, but reform wasnt a given. Jacinda Ardern showed true leadership in recognizing, and acting on, a simple equation: that making semi-automatic guns illegal will make it harder for someone to terrorize our country again. In the U.S. your roadblocks are convoluted; a lot needs to change for your politicians to also recognize, and act on, that simple equation. First and foremost, you need to start treating each other like fellow Americans. Hatred, and what seems to be a pervasive othering of naysayers, is hampering progress. Though there seems to be recognition that divisive politics encourages intolerance, there is little recognition that intolerance enables and encourages divisive politics. In New Zealand we responded to terrorism with cohesive inclusiveness, with love. We dont have openly divisive politicians to the same degree you do in the U.S. because we simply would not stand for that kind of rhetoric. Its cliche, but be the change you want to see. Maybe then you can start to have constructive debates that lead to change. My pride in our quick reforms extends to a hope that we will be the spark that leads to your change. Like how we sparked change when we became the first country to give women the right to vote, or defied the world in shunning nuclear power. Were small and were far away, but that doesnt mean you cant learn from us. ('You Might Also Like',) (Adds comments by U.S. officials, background) By Lesley Wroughton and David Brunnstrom WASHINGTON, March 22 (Reuters) - The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on 14 people and 17 entities connected to an Iranian research organization it said had played a central role in the country's past nuclear weapons effort and which remains active. Among those designated for sanctions was the Shahid Karimi group, which works on missile and explosive-related projects for Irans Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research, and four associated individuals, the U.S. Treasury Department said in a Statement. The United States charges that the organization, known by its Farsi acronym SPND, oversees nuclear-relevant research for Iran and is active in the training of new scientists. It sanctioned SPND's head, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, in 2008. The announcement coincided with a visit on Friday by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Beirut, where he will focus on Lebanon's ties to the heavily armed, Iran-backed Hezbollah. "The U.S. government is taking decisive action against actors at all levels in connection with Iran's Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND) who have supported the Iranian regimes defense sector," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said. An administration official, who spoke on a conference call on condition of anonymity, warned that any association with SPND or its subordinate groups "makes them radioactive" and open to U.S. sanctions. A second official said the sanctions were aimed at trying to pressure Tehran to negotiate a more comprehensive nuclear deal with the United States. "It is not just putting pressure on Iran to reach a diplomatic negotiated solution, we are highlighting continued existence of the SPND," the official said. In his first year in office in 2017, President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) signed in 2015 between Iran and six world powers, which aimed to curb Iran's nuclear program. Story continues France, Britain, Germany, China and Russia remain part of the nuclear agreement, despite the reimposition of sanctions by the United States against Iran. The crux of the deal, negotiated over almost two years by the Obama administration, was that Iran would restrain its nuclear program in return for the relaxation of sanctions that had crippled its economy. Trump considered it flawed because it did not include curbs on ballistic missiles or regional activity. Friday's steps target current SPND subordinate groups, supporters, front companies, and associated officials. The move freezes any U.S. assets of those targeted and bans U.S. dealings with them. "Todays action serves as a warning to individuals and entities considering dealing with the Iranian regimes defense sector in general, and SPND in particular: by engaging in sanctionable activity with designated Iranian persons, you risk professional, personal, and financial isolation," the U.S. Treasury said in a statement. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Thursday that Tehran was determined to boost its defense capabilities despite mounting pressure from the United States and its allies to curb its ballistic missile program. (Reporting by Susan Heavey, Mohammad Zargham, David Brunnstrom and Tim Ahmann in Washington Editing by Susan Thomas and James Dalgleish) Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2019 > Open Letter to the Chief Justice of India Honourable Chief Justice of India, You know more than anyone else in the world that the Indian constitutional polity treats all citizens equally irrespective of their race, creed, religion, language, culture and gender. But the observation of the Bench (consisting Justices S.A. Bobde, D.Y. Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S. Abdul Nazeer) headed by you in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title case that the issue is primarily not about the disputed 2.77 acres of Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site in Ayodhya, but about religious sentiments and thus was looking at a possibility of healing relationships.1 The religions of the parties were not named but it was clear that the Supreme Court Bench meant to heal the relationship between Hindus and Muslims. Such a stand presents serious dangers to the principles of the Rule of Law or Due Process of Law on which the Indian Constitution is based. Sir, the mediation recourse on the plea that religious sentiments are involved would lead India to a theocracy. Fortunately, in the past the Supreme Court never raised this issue while delivering historic judgments in favour of women and punishing perpetrators of carnages in 1984 and 2002. When the victims approach your esteemed highest court of justice in India, they do not approach you as persons of majority or minority but as Indian citizens who have been wronged. Regarding the present case, I would draw your kind attention to the following facts. (1) Ayodhya dispute is not between Hindus and Muslims: The title dispute has been brought before esteemed Supreme Court as the Babri mosque was demolished on December 6, 1992 by an illegal assembly of Hindutva zealots gathered in Ayodhya by the RSS and its fraternal organisations after a long polarising bloody campaign of hatred against Muslims. It was not and is not an issue between Hindus and Muslims. It is between Hindutva organisations and the democratic-secular Indian polity. The mosque was demolished despite orders of the Supreme Court, assurances by the RSS/BJP leaders to Indian Parliament and the then PM Narsimha Rao. Rao gave solemn promise both to the Parliament and Indian nation (from the ramparts of Red Fort on August 15, 1993) that the wrong would be undone and the demolished mosque would be built at its original site. (2) Demolition of the Babri mosque by the Hindutva organisations was not endorsed by the Hindus of India: Sir, I want to draw your attention to the fact that by treating this case as a fight between Hindus and Muslims, the highest court of justice of India is insulting the vast majority of Indian Hindus who did not subscribe to the Hindutva brand of politics and did not join the demolition campaign. The RSS/BJP after demolition of the mosque at Ayodhya believed that their electoral future was secure. However, the enlightened and secular Hindu voters rebuffed the Hindutva politics of hate by defeating the BJP not only in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan even in UP assembly elections but also in the 2004 national elections. (3) Highly retrograde selection of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as a mediator: Sir, under your headship the Supreme Court (SC) appointed three mediators to arrange a compromise between Hindus and Muslims. The penal is headed by Justice (retired) Fakkir Mohammad Ebrahim Kalifulla (one of his landmark judgments related to the ordering of introduction of Vedic astrology as a course of scientific study in Indian universities as a Justice of the Supreme Court) and includes Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (a spiritual guru popular with the Arab rulers) and a legal mediation expert, lawyer Sriram Panchu (President of the Indian Association of Mediators and Director of the International Mediation Institute). There has been no explanation from the Supreme Court Bench regarding the criteria relying on which this selection has been made. It seems that these mediators are not representing religious communities but are neutral persons who are expected to come out with an objective and honest resolution. Respected Sir, let me draw your kind attention to the highly questionable past and present of this spiritual guru, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (not content with having ONE SRI in his name) which makes his selection as a mediator in the Babri mosque/Ram temple conflict a shocking choice. Sir, this baba is not a neutral mediator. He is an old pal of the RSS which was responsible for demolition of the mosque at Ayodhya on December 6, 1992. He has been attending all major programmes of the RSS and Vishwa Hindu Parishad. Sri Sris modus operandi, operations, gimmicks and close connections with the RSS have been recorded by a renowned South Asia expert and journalist in his book, In Spite of the Gods: The Strange Rise of Modern India. According to him: Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has a reputation for being a mystic and liberal. What is less widely known is the gurujis close attachment to the RSS. He has shared platforms with VHP leaders at public meetings. I asked him whether the Ram Temple should be built in Ayodhya. Suppose, he said, that it was the birthplace of Jesus or Mohammed. What would you have done? Would you have tolerated another structure on that site? Let us build a temple to Ram and let the Muslims make this gesture as an act of goodwill and then the temple will also belong to Allah and to all Muslims.2 Respected Sir, this guru is an RSS frontman as would be clear from an anecdote shared by Edward Luce. According to him, when he did a story after visiting this gurus palatial ashram at Bangalore, A few weeks later received a telephone call from Ram Madhav, the national spokesman of the RSS. I am calling about Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, said Madhav. I was talking to him the other day and he said he was disappointed with your article in the Financial Times. You only quoted his views on politics and the Shankaracharya. He said he was hoping you would quote his views on tolerance and spiritualism. It is true my article had lacked space to quote the gurujis opinions on other matters. But I was surprised the guruji should have chosen the RSSof all organisationsto convey his complaint.3 Honourable Chief Justice of India, it was in 2007 when guru Sri Sri took the above stand in favour of building a temple at the place where the mosque stood. With the passage of time this stand got more hardened. In March 2018 in an interview to a leading Indian periodical he demanded that Muslims should give up their claims on Ayodhya and warned that if it was not done it would lead to a situation like Syrian civil war. From his blatant threat it was not difficult to understand who would play the role of defender of religion in India which the Islamic State plays in Syria. Despite sounding as a believer in the negotiated settlement he did not forget to warn the courts, Can any government remove Ram Lala from where he is now, even if the SC says so?4 Honourable Chief Justice Sir, I would beg that please keep away the highest court of Justice of the country from mingling with the communal narrative of the Hindutva gang about the demolition of a mosque at Ayodhya in 1992. It has nothing to do with religion but is a political issue which the ruling parties of India have kept on the burner for electoral gains. It has come to the courts including the Supreme Court for criminal and civil reliefs. The judiciary should decide the issue guided only by the principles enshrined in the democratic-secular Constitution of India. It should not bother to keep any section in good humour. Sir, I hope despite your enormously busy schedule, my request would be taken note of. Yours sincerely, Shamsul Islam (Retired faculty University of Delhi) March 11, 2019 Endnotes 1. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/ayodhya-mediation-supreme-court-verdict-live-updates-5616762/ 2. Luce, Edward, In Spite of the Gods: The Strange Rise of Modern India, Doubleday, New York, 2007, pp. 17 7-178. 3. Ibid., p. 178. 4. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/if-not-resolved-amicably-janmaboomi-dispute-can-turn-india-into-syria-sri-sri-1182073-2018-03-05 Shamsul Islam, a well-known theatre personality, is a former Associate Professor (now retired), Department of Political Science, Satyawati College, University of Delhi. For some of the authors writings in English, Hindi, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, Punjabi, Urdu and Gujarati see the following link: http/du-in.academia.edu/Shamsullslam By Tracy Rucinski CHICAGO (Reuters) - American Airlines pilots will test Boeing Co's 737 MAX software fix on simulators this weekend, the pilots' union told Reuters on Thursday, a key step in restoring confidence in the jet after two fatal crashes. Boeing 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 a fatal Ethiopian Airlines crash on March 10 have raised fresh questions about the system. The two crashes killed a total of 346 people. American is the second-largest U.S. operator of the MAX in the United States with 24 jets, behind Southwest Airlines with 34. "This airplane can be a safe airplane, and there have been great strides on getting a fix in the works, but I'll have a better feel after we can test it out," said Mike Michaelis, safety committee chairman of the Allied Pilots Association (APA), which represents American Airlines pilots. Michaelis said one APA pilot and one pilot from American's management team would test the software fix in Renton, Washington, where Boeing builds the MAX and has two simulators. "We have been engaging with all 737 MAX operators and we are continuing to schedule meetings to share information about our plans for supporting the 737 MAX fleet," Boeing spokesman Paul Bergman said. MAX jets were grounded worldwide in the wake of the Ethiopian crash. Boeing has indicated it would deploy the software update by April or sooner, though it was unclear how long it would take to get the jets flying again. Pilots must complete FAA-approved computer-based training on the changes, followed by a mandatory test, and some pilots have said more may be needed. After Lion Air, American pilots met with Boeing executives in Fort Worth, Texas and demanded to know why the manufacturer had not told them about the new system, known as MCAS. Story continues They also questioned whether a 56-minute iPad course on the MAX had been sufficient. MAX simulator training is not required, partly because few simulators exist. Southwest and American expect to receive MAX simulators later this year. The main simulator producer, Canada's CAE Inc, said it has delivered nine of the simulators, which are now in high demand but take about a year to build. CAE expects to deliver 20 more in 2019. "When it comes to safety issues, it has to be a full-course meal, nothing a la carte," said Dennis Tajer, a spokesman for the American Airlines pilots' union and a 737 pilot. (Reporting by Tracy Rucinski; additional reporting by Allison Lampert in Montreal and Eric M. Johnson in Seattle; editing by Darren Schuettler and Nick Zieminski) By Cindy Silviana and Tracy Rucinski JAKARTA/CHICAGO (Reuters) - Indonesian airline Garuda plans to cancel a $6 billion order for Boeing 737 MAX jets because some passengers say they would be frightened to board the plane after two fatal crashes, although industry analysts said the deal was already in doubt. Still, Garuda is the first airline to publicly announce plans to scrap a 737 MAX order since the world's entire fleet of one of Boeing's signature aircraft was grounded last week. In the United States, American Airlines pilots prepared to test Boeing Co's planned software upgrade for an anti-stall system on MAX simulators this weekend, saying they want their own safety guarantees on the fix. The 737 MAX was Boeing's fastest selling jet before an Ethiopian Airlines crash near Addis Ababa on March 10, five months after a Lion Air jet plunged into the sea in Indonesia. Ethiopia and French investigators have pointed to "clear similarities" between the two crashes, which killed 346 people, putting pressure on Boeing and U.S. regulators to come up with an adequate fix. However, questions have emerged about how much is known about the cause of the Ethiopian crash, 11 days after black box data and voice recorders were found. Ethiopia has shared limited information with foreign investigators, Reuters reported on Thursday, and an industry source said Boeing had not yet received any data. None of the parties agreed to comment. Ethiopia said on Thursday it had started reviewing data with U.S. and French safety investigation authorities. Garuda CEO Ari Askhara told Reuters on Friday: "Many passengers told us they were afraid to get on a MAX 8." However, the airline had been reconsidering its order for 49 of the narrowbody jets before the Ethiopian crash, including potentially swapping some for widebody Boeing models. Southeast Asia faces a glut of narrowbody aircraft like the 737 MAX and rival Airbus A320neo at a time of slowing global economic growth and high fuel costs. Story continues "They have been re-looking at their fleet plan anyway so this is an opportunity to make some changes that otherwise may be difficult to do," CAPA Centre for Aviation Chief Analyst Brendan Sobie said. Indonesia's Lion Air has also said it might cancel 737 MAX aircraft, though industry sources say it is also struggling to absorb the number of planes on order. RETROFITS No direct link has been proven between the crashes, which killed a total of 346 people, but attention has focused on whether pilots had the correct information about the "angle of attack" at which the wing slices through the air. Boeing now plans to make compulsory a light to alert pilots when sensor readings of the angle of attack do not match - meaning at least one must be wrong -, according to two officials briefed on the matter. Investigators suspect a faulty angle-of-attack reading led the doomed Lion Air jet's computer to believe it had stalled, prompting its anti-stall system, called MCAS, repeatedly to push the plane's nose down. Norwegian Air played down the significance of the compulsory light, saying that, according to Boeing, it would not have been able to prevent erroneous signals that Lion Air pilots received before their new 737 MAX plane crashed in October. Boeing must be cautious with how it characterizes the safety alert, risking legal claims by saying it could have made a difference in the crash while not wanting to suggest that the retrofit is meaningless, legal experts said. The Lion Air plane did not have the warning light installed, and Ethiopian Airlines did not immediately comment on whether its crashed plane had the alert. But the Ethiopian carrier, whose reputation along with Boeing's is at stake, issued a statement on Friday emphasizing the modernity of its safety and training systems, with more than $500 million invested in infrastructure in the past five years. The Ethiopian crash has set off one of the widest inquiries in aviation history and cast a shadow over the Boeing 737 MAX model intended to be a standard for decades. Boeing did not comment on the plan to make the safety feature standard, but separately said it was moving quickly to make software changes and expected the upgrade to be approved by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in coming weeks. Chicago-based Boeing will also retrofit older planes with the cockpit warning light, the officials told Reuters. Experts said the change needs regulatory approval and could take weeks or months. Regulators in Europe and Canada have said they will conduct their own reviews of any new systems. Since the Ethiopian crash, Boeing shares have fallen 14 percent. Pressure has mounted on the company from U.S. legislators, who are also expected to question the FAA. The company faces a criminal investigation by the U.S. Justice Department as well. Several lawsuits have already been filed on behalf of victims of the Lion Air crash referring to the Ethiopian accident. Boeing declined to comment on the lawsuits. (Reporting by Cindy Silviana in JAKARTA and Tracy Rucinski in CHICAGO; Additional reporting by Terje Solsvik in Oslo, Jamie Freed in Singapore, Bernadette Christina Munthe in Jakarta, Maggie Fick and Jason Neely in Addis Ababa, Tim Hepher in Paris, and Eric M. Johnson in Seattle; Writing by Sayantani Ghosh, Georgina Prodhan and Tracy Rucinski; Editing by Mark Potter and Grant McCool) Rio de Janeiro (AFP) - Brazil's ex-president Michel Temer was arrested Thursday, an official said, as part of a sprawling anti-corruption probe that has already claimed dozens of political and corporate scalps. Police arrested Temer, the 78-year-old predecessor of current far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, in Sao Paulo, a spokesman for the federal prosecutor's office in Rio de Janeiro told AFP. Former mines and energy minister Moreira Franco was also detained along with six others, including business people, G1 reported. Temer, Brazil's most unpopular leader ever, faced a number of corruption accusations on leaving office last year. Launched in 2014, the Car Wash investigation uncovered a vast graft operation involving Petrobras and major construction companies and bribes to politicians of several parties. Temer is just the latest former president caught up in the probe that has rocked Brazil's business and political elites. The center-right politician took over as a caretaker figure after the last Workers Party president, Dilma Rousseff, was impeached and removed from office in 2016. Former leftist president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is serving a lengthy jail term after being found guilty in two corruption cases. Far-right leader Bolsonaro campaigned on a hard line against corruption and crime and his victory in October's election was in part attributed to the Car Wash investigation. Temer did not contest the ballot. The European Union, a single political and economic bloc, has faced multiple challenges that brought its viability into question, said Stephen Roach, a senior fellow at Yale University. With the U.K. planning to leave the bloc, it remains to be seen whether the EU still has the ability to withstand more shocks, said Roach, who's a former chairman of Morgan Stanley Asia. As United Kingdom Prime Minister Theresa May presses on to take Britain out of the European Union , one leading economist raised questions about the viability of the single political and economic bloc. "You have to wonder about the future of the European Union itself ... this is an imperfect union and the survivability of it is, I think, a serious question," Stephen Roach, a senior fellow at Yale University, told CNBC's Sri Jegarajah on Friday. Even before Brexit came about, the EU faced multiple challenges over the last decade, said Roach, who's a former chairman of Morgan Stanley Asia. Those challenges include a sovereign debt crisis in Greece and a standoff with Italian leaders over the country's spending plans. And with the U.K. one of the largest European economies planning to leave the bloc , it remains to be seen whether the EU has the ability to withstand more pressure coming from member states while still reeling from the shocks of the global financial crisis, said Roach. The EU agreed to postpone the U.K.'s exit from the bloc to May 22 if May can convince the British parliament to accept the existing deal. If May fails to convince parliament, Britain would face a disorderly exit from the EU on April 12. "The idea that one-size-fits-all has been rejected repeatedly over the last 10 years," he said. "In the early days there was some convergence of economic cycles, but then the asymmetric shocks in (2008 and 2009) have continued to ripple through the landscape and really challenge the idea that this is a cohesive economic zone that can be guided by one central bank," he added. Story continues Roach is not the only one who has questioned what the future holds for the EU. Billionaire investor George Soros said last month that the future of the EU was "highly uncertain" and could experience the same fate as the Soviet Union, which collapsed in 1991. 'Toxic cocktail' Even though the circumstances surrounding Brexit are still uncertain and pose a major risk within Europe, Roach said the event itself wouldn't be enough to derail the global economy. What Brexit does accomplish, however, is to add to the "toxic cocktail" that threatens to hit growth, the economist said. "The downward growth pressure is in China , the weakness in Japan , the deceleration in the United States . In conjunction with uncertainties and potential shock coming out of Brexit, it's certainly a potentially toxic cocktail for the global economy," Roach said. More From CNBC Juatuba (Brazil) (AFP) - Brazilian fisherman Jose Geraldo dos Santos uses a long pole to push his boat down the reddish-brown Paraopeba River, taking care not to splash himself with water he says is toxic. Two months after an upstream tailings dam owned by mining giant Vale burst, spewing millions of tons of minerals-laced sludge across the countryside, the 67-year-old says the river is too polluted for fishing or even for his animals to drink. So contaminated is the tributary to the Sao Francisco River -- the second longest in Brazil -- says dos Santos, that he has been advised to not even "step in the mud." "The researchers who came here said it will take eight to 10 years (for the river to recover)," says dos Santos, who lives about 45 kilometers (28 miles) from the village of Brumadinho in the southeastern state of Minas Gerais, which was engulfed by the waste unleashed by the January 25 dam rupture. Emergency crews continue the slow process of picking through the mud looking for bodies -- at least 210 people were killed and 96 are missing. In the meantime, Vale, government agencies and environmental groups are still assessing the impact of one of Brazil's worst industrial disasters on water quality downstream. Some of the findings differ dramatically. "It's so dense and thick that it cannot be called water," says Malu Ribeiro of SOS Mata Atlantica Foundation in a video released by the non-government organization to highlight the damage to the Paraopeba. Before the dam collapsed the water was "crystal clear, full of fish," says Ribeiro. "I've never seen that color." - 'Serious pollutants' - The disaster was the second involving Vale in three years in the mineral-rich region. The company has tried to contain the contamination by installing barriers to stop poisonous material reaching the Sao Francisco, hundreds of kilometers downstream. So far, Vale says, its water quality analysis shows toxicity levels near the dam are "below the legal limits for mining tailings" and are "not harmful to health." Story continues And its technicians predict that sludge from the dam would "not reach the Sao Francisco," Vale said in a statement Friday. But SOS Mata Atlantica's latest data show high levels of toxic waste are already present in the key waterway and that the source is the dam at Brumadinho. Various samples taken from the upper reaches earlier this month show concentrations of copper, iron, manganese and chromium that exceed the maximum limits allowed by Brazilian law. "These are serious pollutants," says Romilda Roncatti of SOS Mata Atlantica. But Brazilian authorities say the tailings have not spread more than one kilometer downstream and blames the increased turbidity on heavy rain. "It's normal at this time of year to find high levels of some elements like iron or manganese -- these two elements always have higher concentrations during floods," says Eduardo Viglio of the Geological Survey of Brazil, which is tasked with collecting data on minerals and water resources in the country. The government agency's own testing shows oxygen and acidity readings are also "normal," he adds. That is cold comfort for dos Santos, who says increased pollution in the Paraopeba has deprived him of an income from fishing. "The people who handle water treatment have said we can't use the water," he says. "This place is no use to me." Jerusalem (AFP) - Former Mossad spy Rafi Eitan, who commanded the audacious 1960 capture of top Nazi Adolf Eichmann, died on Saturday aged 92, Israeli public radio announced. Eitan, the handler for Jonathan Pollard, a US Navy analyst who passed Israel thousands of top secret documents, was himself wanted by American authorities for a time. He died in the afternoon at Tel Aviv's Ichilov hospital, the radio said, without giving further details. "Rafi was one of the heroes of the state of Israel's intelligence service in countless acts for Israel's security," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. "We mourn his passing." Eitan also won a rare eulogy from the Shin Bet domestic security service, for whom he had worked. "Rafi, who was one of the founders of the Shin Bet's operations branch, led and participated in dozens of groundbreaking operations that will remain unknown for many years to come," agency chief Nadav Argaman wrote in a statement. "We grieve at his passing and are proud to continue on his path." Eitan was born on a kibbutz in British-ruled Palestine in November 1926. He was nicknamed "Rafi the Stinker" after he fell into a sewer during a military operation prior to the establishment of Israel in 1948. After his service in the elite Palmach arm of the paramilitary Haganah organisation, the forerunner of the Israeli army, he joined Mossad in the 1950s. He rose to become the agency's operations chief, commanding the operation to snatch Eichmann in the Argentinian capital Buenos Aires and smuggle him to Israel. The mastermind of the Nazis' Final Solution, Eichmann was then tried and hanged. The ability of the security services to bring him to justice was a source of pride for the Jewish state, which President Reuvin Rivlin called a momentous moment in Israel's history. In the 1980s, Eitan's name came into the spotlight in a major crisis between Israel and key ally the United States. Story continues He was the handler for Jonathan Pollard, a US marine analyst who handed thousands of top secret documents over to Israel between May 1984 and his arrest in November 1985. Pollard served 30 years in a US prison. He was freed in November 2015 but given a five-year probation period during which he is barred from travelling. The FBI had also issued an arrest warrant against Eitan, Pollard's handler. In 2006, at the age of 79, he was elected to Israel's parliament as head of the Pensioners' Party and appointed minister for senior citizens. "I had a heart operation a year ago, I can't see anything and I can't hear anything, but I run every morning, I sculpt and my wife says I'm doing well," Eitan said on becoming a lawmaker. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin said in a statement Saturday evening that Eitan "was a born fighter who stuck to his mission and to what he knew to be right." "Our heads are bowed today in his memory," he said. In This View of Life: Completing the Darwinian Revolution, evolutionary biologist David Sloan Wilson continues the project of scientific imperialism that has defined much of the latter part of his career. This View of Life takes as given that humans are shaped by our evolutionary past, and proceeds to show how general principles derived from the discipline can be applied to policy decisions and social problems, guiding our species-wide goals to further our flourishing. Wilson aims to break evolution out of its biological box, offering it as a universal framework for understanding and shaping human phenomena. This is an ambitious program. But first one has to address the historical elephant in the room: the misapplication of evolutionary principles. The prosecution argues that evolution stands of accused of aiding and abetting the abominations that culminated in Nazi Germany. After the defeat of Hitlers regime, evolutionary theory retreated into the redoubt of biology, concerning itself with natural history, laboratory experiments, and abstruse mathematical models. And there it should stay, argue its critics, lest we repeat the mistakes of the past. David Sloan Wilson rejects this argument in totality. He notes that the opprobrium hurled at evolutions application to social problems draws from Richard Hofstadters Social Darwinism in American Thought. Hofstadter was a man of left-wing commitments writing in 1944, as the war against Hitlers regime was still a live concern. His was not a dispassionate scholarly analysis. He aimed to produce something which could be deployed in the fight against racism, nationalism, or competitive strife. This View of Life highlights how men as diverse as Darwin, Herbert Spencer, Francis Galton, and Thomas Malthus were not united in their views, nor were they the cruel anti-humanitarians that their detractors portray them as (Hitlers own views were scientifically inchoate at best, and ignorant at worst). Wilsons arguments are familiar to libertarians in particular, many of whom have long argued that Hofstadter misrepresented classical liberals. Story continues The argument for the defense that one encounters in This View of Life may not entirely convince, at least in the chapter-length treatment Wilson provides. The great evolutionary geneticist R. A. Fishers central work, Genetical Theory of Natural Selection, contains a long exposition of eugenicist thought as applied to humanity. To not put too fine a point on this, contemporary readers invariably find this section quite offensive. And yet Fisher himself was a complicated figure, a patriotic British Tory conservative and Anglican Christian. The past was truly a different age. Most of This View of Life, though, presents a forward-looking positive vision, not a backward-looking apologia. Wilson argues cogently that humanity, both in its biology and its culture, is a product of evolution. The central pillars of his narrative are the four major questions elucidated by the ethologist Niko Tinbergen in the 20th century as essential aspects of any evolutionary analysis. First, what is the function of a trait? Second, what is the history of the trait over many generations? Third, what is the physical mechanism of the trait? Finally, how does the trait develop during the history of the particular organism? At this point you may wonder how Wilson applies these questions outside of biology, in religion for example, thereby completing the Darwinian revolution. Though This View of Life touches upon religion, it is in an earlier book, Darwins Cathedral: Evolution, Religion, and the Nature of Society, that he elaborates in detail how religious belief systems are evolutionarily shaped cultural phenomena. Consider the trait of missionary activity. The function of the trait is to increase the flock and bear witness to the message of salvation. In regards to its history, the earliest records of missions go back to Buddhism, many centuries before Christ, during the reign of the Emperor Ashoka. The trait seems to have become common in many Roman mystery religions, culminating with Christianity, and later adopted by Islam, evolving over time in vigor and centrality to various faiths. The mechanism is straightforward. Believers leave their homelands and propagate their views. Finally, the nature of missionary activity has changed in many religions over time, as aims and methods have been refined changes that develop through selection. A specific religion can be thought of as a cultural organism. Consider the Western Christian tradition the Roman Catholic Church and the eruption of the Reformation. It made forays into organized missionary work under Gregory the Great in the sixth century a.d., but it truly refined the process in the 16th and 17th centuries with the emergence of orders such as Jesuits missionary arms of the Church tasked with countering the spread of Protestantism taking the faith across the oceans to new lands. The application of evolutionary principles to religion illustrates that This View of Life is not wedded to genetics. Genetics revolutionized our understanding of evolution in the 20th century, but in our time Wilson wants to push evolution beyond its genetic basis. All that evolution requires is inheritance of characteristics. This vision is grounded strongly on a multi-level understanding of organismic complexity, extending ideas Wilson developed in the early part of his career. In the biological context, that means viewing organisms from their simplest level that of the gene up to the individual, above that to kin groups, and then to large entities such as tribes and nations. And once you extend your analysis to large groups, cultural processes become much more powerful than biological ones. Due to its ambition, This View of Life takes aim at the incumbent imperium of applied social science: economics. Wilson has no time for the utilitarian individualism of neoclassical economics and its fixation on static equilibria. He rejects Homo economicus as intellectually impoverished, with thin insights not conducive to fostering human flourishing. Just as with the refutation of the arguments popularized by Hofstadter, skeptics may raise their eyebrows at the broad-brush dismissal of economics in Wilsons narrative, but the thing to focus on is the alternative vision he presents. You can set This View of Life next to Tim Harfords The Logic of Life: The Rational Economics of an Irrational World with no guilt. It is simply a fact that humans are fundamentally social animals. Though the liberal vision emphasizes the centrality of the individual in terms of worth, our evolutionary history suggests that human uniqueness lies in our incredible sociality and cultural creativity. Individual human beings exist, but so do a wide range of social organizations. Consider the various city-states of ancient Greece, with their myriad political systems, or the communes of the Burned-over District of upstate New York in the 19th century after the Second Great Awakening. Religions, civic associations, and polities: These are all unique and ubiquitous to our species. Evolution on the individual level favors selfishness, as one might see in Homo economicus. Greed is, on the one level, good. But Wilson shows that in the broader context of animal breeding, maximizing the most fit lineages results in lower overall productivity, as rapacious individuals tear down the social fabrics on which they rely to exist. It is often the case that selection for groups of cooperative organisms, who may on an individual level be less impressive, results in greater yield. Evolution is more than the sum of its parts. And so it is with human societies, as the total drive toward selfishness leads to a war of all against all, and social collapse. Homo economicus may win against other members of their own tribe, but their tribe always loses to Homo sapiens, which is a much less rapacious creature. This View of Life presents a progressive vision of human complexity increasing over the eons, as bands becomes clans, and clans become tribes, and tribes become nations. The ultimate level of organization Wilson envisions is a global one. But here he does not imagine a centralized, top-down leviathan. Rather, he posits iterative experimentation as an essential feature of evolutionary systems, which evolve and change over time. They depend not on eternal equilibriums, but on contemporary responses to current conditions. Wilson inveighs against laissez-faire, but does not offer up as a utopian uniform alternative a centralized command economy. Evolution is not top-down design, as might apply to a physical system, but bottom-up adaptation and experimentation, as is the norm in biological systems. Small businesses, civic associations, localities, and nonprofits will likely drive social change and advancement on a global scale in the view promulgated in Wilsons narrative. They incentivize innovation and promote what works. This View of Life begins with a discussion of the ideas of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, an evolutionary biologist, Jesuit priest, and philosopher, whose impact in the 20th century has been largely forgotten in the 21st century. It concludes with a frank admission that Wilson is aspiring to the same aim of de Chardins work in The Phenomenon of Man, which argued that humanity is pushing forward the project of increased social complexity so that there will evolve a supreme-consciousness, the Omega Point. In a broad sense Wilson too aspires to the Omega Point. He states that the evolutionary worldview in This View of Life is an ethic, while evolutionary theory is simply a description. This is a large step for a scientist so large that it changes his work from that of a scientist to that of a pundit. Most evolutionary biologists would no doubt feel The Phenomenon of Man is a bizarre work. Richard Dawkins has praised sharp critiques of The Phenomenon of Man. In his scientific work Dawkins has suggested that humanity is good not in spite of its nature, but because of it. Similarly, many scientists will look askance at the grand claims Wilson promotes in This View of Life, as he mixes is and ought, jumping from a positive description of reality to normative prescriptions for human happiness and well-being. In contrast, religious conservatives may see Wilsons visions as materialistic and hubristic. Its ultimate evolutionary basis, and nearly messianic aims, ensure that This View of Life will alarm many traditionalists. The fact is, one can argue that Wilsons This View of Life is all of these things, and that the author believes in the importance of his vision to such an extent that he is not particularly concerned with causing alarm. Wilson begins the book as an evolutionary biologist, describing the facts as they are. He ends it like de Chardin, an evolutionary priest, preaching to the unconverted the good news at hand. More from National Review "Game of Thrones" star Emilia Clarke suffered two nearly fatal brain aneurysms in the early years of filming the hit series, she said in an essay published Thursday. The British actress -- who plays Daenerys Targaryen on the blockbuster show about to enter its final season -- wrote that the first aneurysm rupture struck while she was at the gym in February 2011, just after filming the first season. "At some level, I knew what was happening: my brain was damaged," the 32-year-old wrote in The New Yorker magazine in her piece entitled "A Battle For My Life." "For a few moments, I tried to will away the pain and the nausea," she continued. "To keep my memory alive, I tried to recall, among other things, some lines from 'Game of Thrones.'" Clarke was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with a subarachnoid hemorrhage -- a form of stroke triggered by bleeding into areas that surround the brain, which kills about one third of the patients it strikes. She was 24 at the time of her first brain surgery, and said the recovery period in which she could not even recall her own name -- a condition called aphasia -- gave her "a sense of doom." "In my worst moments, I wanted to pull the plug. I asked the medical staff to let me die," Clarke said. "My job -- my entire dream of what my life would be -- centered on language, on communication. Without that, I was lost." The condition passed and Clarke left the hospital one month after her admission -- but doctors had found she had a second aneurysm that could rupture at any moment. "Even before we began filming Season 2, I was deeply unsure of myself. I was often so woozy, so weak, that I thought I was going to die," Clarke wrote, saying she took morphine between interviews while promoting the acclaimed show. During a routine brain scan doctors found her growth had doubled in size and decided to operate -- a seemingly simple procedure that resulted in major complications and another month in the hospital. Today, Clarke says she has "healed beyond my most unreasonable hopes," and helped develop a charity to offer treatment to patients recovering from stroke and brain injuries. "There is something gratifying, and beyond lucky, about coming to the end of 'Thrones,'" Clarke wrote. "I'm so happy to be here to see the end of this story and the beginning of whatever comes next." Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2019 > Peace Conference in Pakistan calls for De-escalation and Nuclear (...) The following is a press release issued on March 9, 2019 by Imtiaz Alam, Secretary-General, South Asia Free Media Association (SAFMA), about a peace conference held in Lahore. Peace activists from across civil society at a peace conference in Lahore, convened by the South Asia Free Media Association (SAFMA), Pakistan-India Peoples Forum for Peace and Democracy (PIPFPD) and Progressive Writers Association, called for strategic restraint, obser-vance of ceasefire across the LoC/international borders, an end to atrocities against Kashmiris, nuclear CBMs, and resumption of an inter-ruptible and comprehensive dialogue between India and Pakistan. While appreciating the efforts of the international community and saner elements of the subcontinent for de-escalation of conflict between the two neighbours, they warned against the provocateurs and warmongers who could push the subcontinent into a dangerous conflict that could spiral into a nuclear catastrophe. They called upon the major political forces and powers that be to not let the subcontinent become a hostage to the whims of terrorists and jingoism of the hyper-nationalists who flourish on hate and mayhem. Reiterating their concerns about militarisation of the region, nuclear proliferation and arms race, the peace activists emphasised the urgency to put in place a nuclear-stabilisation regime, divert resources from arms race to the benfit of hundreds of million people suffering from poverty and impoverishment. Rejecting war as politics by other means to resolve disputes, the peace conference appealed to all who matter to engage in a comprehensive dialogue and resolve all differences through peaceful means. Welcoming the measures towards normali-sation, such as talks on the Kartarpur corridor, they warned against the elements who indulge in brinkmanship and adventurism. The conference rejected all notions of surgical strikes across borders, mini-wars, proxy wars and terrorism to attain any objective. Rejecting terrorism and proxy wars as an instrument of strategy, the conference called upon Pakistan and India to shun such practices that can destabilised the whole region. The participants welcomed the ongoing negotiations between the Taliban and the US and other initiatives and emphasised that the withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan and an end to war should ensure reconciliation and peaceful democratic transition in Afghanistan on a permament basis. The international and regional forces are required to jointly help reconstruction, reconciliation of peace in Afghanistan. Pakistan and Iran should also take measures against cross-border terrorism. The peace activists called upon the two governments to take confidence building measures, activate the diplomatic channels and allow people-to-people contacts. They extended their felicitations to the peace activists of Pakistan and India who kept the banner of peace flying, despite the high fever of war hysteria. The Secretary-General of SAFMA presided over the conference. Senator Pervaiz Rashid (PML-N), Farhatullah Babar (PPP), Farooq Tariq (AWP), Mohammed Tehsheen (PIPFPD), Hussain Naqi, senior journalist, Dr Alim Khan (PWA), addressed the conference. The resolution was adopted by all the participants. Golan Heights (AFP) - Druze on the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights on Saturday took to the streets in protest at US President Donald Trump's pledge to recognise the Jewish state's sovereignty there. Trump broke with decades of US Middle East policy, and longstanding international consensus, when he posted a Tweet on Thursday that said it was time to accept Israel's widely-contested claim to the strategic plateau. Tens of thousands of Syrians fled or were expelled when Israel seized part of the Golan during the 1967 Six-Day War, subsequently annexing it in 1981. Some remained, however, and today around 23,000 Druze -- an offshoot of Shiite Islam who also live in Lebanon -- reside in the Israeli-controlled sector, alongside 25,000 Israeli settlers. The vast majority of these Druze see themselves as Syrians, refusing to take Israeli nationality. On Saturday Druze men, women and children rallied in the town of Majdal Shams, adjacent to the armistice line between the Golan's Israeli and Syrian-controlled sectors. They waved Druze and Syrian flags and carried pictures of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Others carried banners in Arabic reading, "The Golan is Syrian" and "We are the ones who decide Golan's identity". Wasef Khatar, a Druze community representative, said Trump was making commitments on "Arab, Syrian land, not Israeli". "We reject the decision of the American president Trump because he is talking about something he doesn't own," he said in Arabic. Trump's move was hinted at a week ago when the US State Department changed its description of the area from "occupied" to "Israeli-controlled". It is yet to be made operative by an act of Congress or an executive order. By Foo Yun Chee BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Czech search engine Seznam urged Google on Friday to disclose more details about its plan to boost rival search apps in Android smartphones, saying it continued to lose users due to what it said were Google's anti-competitive practices. Seznam, which attracts as much advertising spend as Google in the Czech Republic, took its grievance to the European Commission nearly three years ago. It subsequently joined lobbying group FairSearch whose complaint triggered the European Commission's investigation into Google's mobile operating system Android which ultimately led to a record 4.34 billion euro ($4.9 billion) fine. "Time is running out, every day makes a difference. Seznam is losing market share because of Google's search engine installed by default on mobiles," said Michal Feix, Seznam's former chief executive and now a partner at a consultancy advising the company. EU antitrust enforcers said Google, a unit of Alphabet Inc., had used its Android market power to hinder rivals. Google' senior vice-president of global affairs, Kent Walker, said in a blog this week that his company planned to prompt users to choose their preferred browsers and search apps, but he did not provide details. Feix welcomed that idea in principle. "It is probably the solution we are looking at but it depends on the details. Walker's blog lacked details," he said. Google spokesman Al Verney declined to comment. (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Editing by Edmund Blair) KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) The Latest on flooding in the Midwest (all times local): 8:10 p.m. Figures compiled by the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency put damage statewide from recent flooding at more than $640 million. NEMA says on its website that current county estimates are of damage to public property of $553 million and private property of $89 million. The hardest hit counties are Nance, with more than $230 million in damage, and Sarpy with more than $140 million. Sarpy County is in the southern suburbs of Omaha, while Nance County is about 145 miles (233 kilometers) west of Omaha. Nebraska's governor earlier said the state suffered nearly $1.4 billion in estimated losses and damage, including $840 million in crop and cattle losses. ___ 4:55 p.m. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has added nine counties to the state flash flooding disaster proclamation, bringing the total to 52 out of Iowa's 99 counties. Much of the most serious flooding has been in western Iowa along the Missouri River. But several of the counties added Thursday are in eastern and southeast Iowa, where flooding also has occurred. Flooding began in Iowa on March 13. The surge damaged hundreds of homes in the Midwest and has been blamed for at least three deaths two in Nebraska and one in Iowa. The water is receding in many Iowa locations but has inundated thousands of acres of land, destroyed stockpiled grain and killed livestock. Reynolds is asking President Donald Trump for an expedited federal disaster declaration. ___ 4:40 p.m. President Donald Trump has approved Nebraska's request for federal disaster assistance in response to historic flooding throughout the state. The declaration issued Thursday provides federal aid to supplement state, local and tribal recovery efforts. It also opens the door to grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help affected residents. Gov. Pete Ricketts submitted the request to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency on Tuesday. Ricketts says federal assistance will play a key role in the recovery effort. Story continues ___ 2:45 p.m. Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has declared a state of emergency in response to flooding of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. The action on Thursday will allow state agencies to work directly with local authorities to respond to flooding that's caused widespread property damage. Parson, the state's Emergency Management Agency director and other officials plan to meet with local leaders and survey flood damage Thursday. The Missouri River swelled following heavy rains and snowmelt earlier this month. The flooding has damaged hundreds of homes in Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri, and has been blamed for at least three deaths. Authorities have rescued several people stranded by flooding in northwest Missouri. The flooding has also taken a heavy toll on agriculture, inundating tens of thousands of acres, threatening stockpiled grain and killing livestock. ___ 1:20 p.m. Another levee has breached as high water levels make their way down the flooding Missouri River. Buchanan County, Missouri, Emergency Director Management Bill Brinton says an agriculture levee breached around 11 a.m. Thursday just across the river from Atchison, Kansas, where the river is expected to crest at record levels. The Missouri towns of Winthrop and Lewis and Clark Village are at risk of taking on water as the size of the breach grows. But Brinton says most of the 200 people who live in the area already left. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says the levee is one of about 20 that have breached in Missouri, Iowa and Nebraska. Crests in St. Joseph, Missouri, are expected to be the third-highest on record, although only about half a dozen homes in the city aren't protected by a federal levee. ____ 9 a.m. Authorities have rescued several people stranded by flooding in northwest Missouri. The State Highway Patrol said in a tweet that water patrol troopers worked into the night Wednesday in and around Craig. Four people were pulled from homes, while three were rescued from a boat that ran out of gas. The town of roughly 220 people began flooding after a levee breach, with several homes inundated with water. A local ethanol plant was also shut down amid the flooding. The Missouri River swelled following heavy rains and snowmelt earlier this month. The flooding has damaged hundreds of homes in Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri, and been blamed for at least three deaths. The flooding has also taken a heavy toll on agriculture, inundating tens of thousands of acres, threatening stockpiled grain and killing livestock. BAGHOUZ, Syria (AP) The Latest on the battle against the Islamic State group in Syria (all times local): 10:25 p.m. The U.S.-led coalition in Syria and Iraq says the victory of the Syrian Democratic Forces over the Islamic State's self-declared caliphate does not mean that violent extremism is over. The 74-nation coalition said in a statement Saturday that since the beginning of operations in 2014, 7.7 million people have been liberated from IS control in an area measuring nearly 110,000 square kilometers (42,471 square miles). U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Paul LaCamera is the coalition commander. He said that "the end of the so-called physical caliphate is a historic military accomplishment." But he warned that IS fighters "are preserving their force and are waiting for the right time to re-emerge." LaCamera said the coalition will continue working with its partners to ensure the enduring defeat of IS. ___ 8:50 p.m. President Donald Trump says the U.S. will remain vigilant against the Islamic State militant network and is warning prospective recruits that they will be "dead" if they join it. Trump said in a statement released Saturday that the group's loss of all its territory in Iraq and Syria is evidence of its false narrative, and he called the militants "losers" who will always be "losers." He accused the group of brutal executions, exploiting children as soldiers and sexually abusing and killing women and children. The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces announced Saturday it had liberated the last village held by IS in Syria. That was a day after Trump said the militants no longer control any territory in Syria. Trump is spending the weekend in Florida. ___ 5:05 p.m. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says the United States still has a lot of work to do despite the territorial defeat of the Islamic State group in Syria. Asked by reporters during a visit to Lebanon Saturday whether the U.S. will provide additional funding to prevent a resurgence of the group, Pompeo said "our mission hasn't changed." Story continues "We still have work to do to make sure that radical Islamic terrorism doesn't continue to grow," he added. The U.S.-allied militia known as the Syrian Democratic Forces announced Saturday it had liberated the last village held by IS in Syria, declaring victory over the group. The announcement came a day after Trump said the militants no longer control any territory in Syria, a victory he had been teasing for days. ___ 4:50 p.m. Britain's prime minister has praised the liberation of the last piece of Islamic State-held territory in Syria as a historic milestone. Theresa May said in a statement Saturday that it would not have been possible without the "commitment, professionalism and courage" of British forces and their global coalition partners. She praised their "tireless work and extraordinary courage." May cautions that the coalition must not lose sight of the threat Islamic State poses. She said the government is committed to wiping out the group's "poisonous ideology." Britain says its armed forces had nearly 1,400 personnel in the region providing support to local forces in addition to numerous air strikes carried out by the Royal Air Force. Britain's army has also helped train Iraqi security forces. ___ 3:15 p.m. French President Emmanuel Macron has paid tribute to the international coalition and its allies after U.S.-backed forces declared military victory over the Islamic State group in Syria. Macron tweeted that "a major danger to our country is now eliminated, yet the threat remains and the fight against terrorist groups must continue." He expressed condolences for the victims of IS. France has been a member of the coalition fighting the IS since 2014. IS claimed responsibility for several attacks in France, including assaults in Paris in 2015 that killed more than 130 people. ___ 3 p.m. A senior U.S. diplomat says the territorial defeat of the Islamic State group is a "critical milestone" that delivers a crushing and strategic blow to the extremist group. William Roebuck, the State Department's official in charge of Syria, adds, however, that the campaign against IS is not over, saying the group remains a significant threat in the region. "We still have much work to do to achieve an enduring defeat of IS," Roebuck said Saturday at a ceremony in eastern Syria's al-Omar oil field base, celebrating victory over the group in Baghouz, IS' last stronghold in Syria. Roebuck promised continued support to America's local partners in Syria to continue fighting IS. ___ 2:45 p.m. A Kurdish commander has formally announced the "physical defeat" of the Islamic State group and appealed for continued assistance until the full eradication of the extremist group. General Mazloum Kobani, the commander-in-chief of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, says his forces have destroyed the group's so-called caliphate after liberating their last stronghold in the village of Baghouz. The SDF has been Washington's partner on the ground in Syria, spearheading the fight against the Islamic State group for the past five years. "We are proud of what we have accomplished," Kobani said at a press conference in eastern Syria, citing the sacrifices and bravery of SDF fighters. Kobani spoke Saturday few hours after the group announced the full liberation of Baghouz from IS militants after a grueling weeks-long battle. ___ 8:30 a.m. U.S.-backed forces have declared military victory over the Islamic State group in Syria after liberating the last pocket of territory held by the militants, marking the end of a brutal self-styled caliphate the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. After weeks of heavy fighting, the tent camp where the militants had made their final stand in the village of Baghouz was, by Saturday, bombed to shreds. A field pitted with abandoned trenches and bomb craters, and littered with scorched tents and the twisted metal carcasses of vehicles, was all that remained. Half buried in the dirt was a tattered shred of IS's notorious black flag, while a giant yellow flag belonging to the Syrian Democratic Forces fluttered atop a shell-pocked building. "Baghouz is free and the military victory against Daesh has been achieved," tweeted Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF, referring to IS by its Arabic acronym. People formed a human chain outside the Wellington Islamic Centre during Friday prayers on March 22, one week after the Christchurch mosque shootings that left 50 dead. A vigil in Christchurch on the same day was attended by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Credit: Charlie Dreaver/Radio New Zealand via Storyful BEIRUT (AP) The Islamic State group has lost all the territory it once controlled in Iraq and Syria, but its shadowy leader and self-proclaimed "caliph" is still at large. With a $25 million U.S. bounty on his head, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is the world's most wanted man, responsible for steering his chillingly violent organization into mass slaughter of opponents and directing and inspiring terror attacks across continents and in the heart of Europe. Despite numerous claims about his death in the past few years, al-Baghdadi's whereabouts remain a mystery. He appeared in public only once, in 2014. Since then, many of his top aides have been killed, mostly in U.S.-led coalition airstrikes. He is among the few senior IS commanders still at large after two years of steady battlefield losses that saw the self-styled "caliphate" shrink from an area the size of Britain to a tiny speck in the Euphrates River valley. Although largely seen as a symbolic figurehead of the global terror network he was described as "irrelevant for a long time" by a coalition spokesman in 2017 al-Baghdadi's capture would be a coveted prize for the various players across both Syria and Iraq. But so far, he has eluded the Americans, Russians, Syrians, Iraqis and Kurds. In the last days of IS, as U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces zoned in on the last slice of territory held by the militants in eastern Syria a couple of villages and farmlands near the Iraqi border the possibility remained that al-Baghdadi would turn up there. Several hundred IS leaders and hardcore fighters, many of them Iraqis, made a last stand in the enclave before surrendering. The last pocket, in the eastern village of Baghouz, was declared liberated on Saturday after weeks of fighting. During the siege, civilians streamed out of the pocket and surrendered estimated at more than 30,000, mostly family of IS. But there has been no sign ofal-Baghdadi. Story continues "The Coalition is not holding him nor do we know where he is," U.S.-led coalition spokesman Col. Sean Ryan told The Associated Press. Mohammed Kheder, co-founder of the Sound and Picture group which documents IS, said the last time al-Baghdadi was spotted in the area was about 15 months ago, citing sources on the ground and the testimony of the people who left the area. In Twitter posts, Kheder's group has said it cannot rule out the possibility al-Baghdadi was detained long ago "especially since many of American airdrops and night operations targeting IS leaders along the Iraqi border have not been disclosed by the coalition." Iraqi intelligence officials believe al-Baghdadi is hiding somewhere in the desert stretching across the Syrian-Iraqi border, using tunnels to move around. "He does not use any communication equipment or internet to avoid detection by coalition planes," a senior intelligence official said. "When he wants to see someone from the organization, they are brought to him individually in cars that stop around two hours away from where al-Baghdadi is, and then they are brought to him individually on motorcycles." Another official, a colonel, said the Americans recently targeted some of al-Baghdadi's closest people, including his personal bodyguard Khaled al-Saudi known as Khallad who was killed last week near the area of al-Baaj along the Iraqi-Syrian border. Khallad's wife was arrested. Another close aide to al-Baghdadi was also recently killed and his wife captured, the colonel said, adding that the Americans believe such targets will soon lead them to al-Baghdadi. Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity to share intelligence information. Al-Baghdadi was born Ibrahim Awwad Ibrahim Ali al-Badri al-Samarrai in 1971 in Samarra, Iraq, and adopted his nom de guerre early on. According to IS-affiliated websites, he was detained by U.S. forces in Iraq and sent to Bucca prison in February 2004 for his anti-U.S. militant activity. He was released 10 months later, after which he joined the al-Qaida branch in Iraq of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. He later assumed control of the group, known at the time as the Islamic State of Iraq. After Syria's civil war erupted in 2011, al-Baghdadi dispatched comrades to the neighboring country to create a like-minded Sunni extremist group there. The group, which came to be known as the Nusra Front, initially welcomed moderate Sunni rebels who were part of the uprising against Syrian President Bashar Assad. Over time, more of his fighters and possibly al-Baghdadi himself relocated to Syria, pursuing his plan to restore a medieval Islamic state, or caliphate. In April 2013, al-Baghdadi announced what amounted to a hostile takeover of the Nusra Front, saying he was merging it into a new group known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Nusra Front's leader Abu Mohammad al-Golani refused to accept the takeover as did al-Qaida's central leadership, which broke with al-Baghdadi. Al-Baghdadi's fighters went onto to capture a contiguous stretch of territory across Iraq and Syria, including key cities such as Raqqa in Syria and Mosul in Iraq. In June 2014, the group announced its own state, or caliphate. Al-Baghdadi became the declared caliph of the newly renamed Islamic State group. The group ruled with a virulently extreme interpretation of Islamic law. The atrocities, massacres and beheadings by al-Baghdadi's militants that followed many broadcast in grisly and macabre video postings on militant websites secured IS a spot in some of the darkest, most brutal annals of modern history. Throughout it all, al-Baghdadi was in the shadows. His only known public appearance on video was on June 29, 2014, when he appeared as a black-robed figure to deliver a sermon from the pulpit of Mosul's Great Mosque of al-Nuri in which he urged Muslims around the world to swear allegiance to the caliphate and obey him as its leader. "It is a burden to accept this responsibility to be in charge of you," he says in the video. "I am not better than you or more virtuous than you. If you see me on the right path, help me. If you see me on the wrong path, advise me and halt me. And obey me as far as I obey God." Little is known about al-Baghdadi's family. An ex-wife, Saja al-Dulaimi, and her daughter from al-Baghdadi, were detained in Lebanon in 2014. She was released a year later as part of a swap with al-Qaida in exchange for kidnapped Lebanese soldiers and policemen. In July 2018, IS announced that al-Baghdadi's son, Huthaifa al-Badri, had been killed fighting government forces in central Syria. None of the subsequent reports of al-Baghdadi being killed or wounded were confirmed. In 2017, Russian officials said there was a "high probability" he had been killed in a Russian airstrike on the outskirts of Raqqa, but U.S. officials later said they believed he was still alive. He resurfaced in late September 2017, calling in an audio message on followers to burn their enemies everywhere. Another audio was posted last August in which al-Baghdadi urges followers to "persevere" in fighting IS' enemies the speech was sprinkled with references to current events to show it was recent. Experts tracking militant figures said the voice in the recordings was al-Baghdadi's. It was the last time he was heard of. ___ Associated Press writer Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad contributed to this report. Montreal (AFP) - A man who allegedly stabbed a priest in front of his congregation live on television during mass at Canada's biggest church was charged Saturday with attempted murder and assault with a weapon. Vlad Cristian Eremia, 26, appeared briefly by video link in a Montreal court on Saturday afternoon, sporting a beard and wearing a checked shirt. He will remain in custody, with his next hearing on Monday. The suspect is accused of attacking Claude Grou, the 77-year-old priest of St Joseph's Oratory in Montreal during morning mass on Friday. Grou was left with minor injuries, in an attack that unfolded in front of 60 horrified parishioners as well as viewers of a Catholic television station which was broadcasting the mass live. Police have described the assault as an isolated incident committed by a man known to authorities, though the motive remains unclear. Grou was able to leave hospital Friday and will rest for a few days before resuming his duties, the church said in a statement Saturday, adding that his wounds were "superficial." "My health is good and I am coming to grips with my emotions," Grou said in a message thanking people for their support. "St Joseph's Oratory remains a place of welcome, of prayer and of calm as it has been for more than 100 years," he added. As a precaution, security will be strengthened in the coming weeks at the Oratory, a spokeswoman for the church said. Considered the largest shrine in the world dedicated to St Joseph, the church receives about two million visitors a year. Perched on a hillside, it offers a panoramic view of Montreal. It was founded in 1904 by Andre Bessette, who was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. (Recasts with Missouri state of emergency; changes dateline, previous VALLEY, Neb.) By Karen Dillon KANSAS CITY, Mo., March 21 (Reuters) - Missouri's governor declared a state of emergency on Thursday as floodwaters that left a swath of destruction across Nebraska and Iowa surged downstream, swamping small towns, roads and farmland in the U.S Midwest. Flooding triggered by last week's so-called "bomb cyclone" storm has already inflicted damage estimated at nearly $1.5 billion in Nebraska, killed at least four people in Nebraska and Iowa and left a man missing below Nebraska's collapsed Spencer Dam. "The rising floodwaters are affecting more Missouri communities and farms, closing more roads and threatening levees, water treatment plants and other critical infrastructure," Governor Mike Parson said in issuing his emergency declaration. "We will continue to work closely with our local partners to assess needs and provide resources to help as Missourians continue this flood fight and as we work to assist one another," Parson said. The declaration allows resources and assistance to be provided directly to counties and municipalities that need aid to deal with worsening flood conditions locally. Public safety officials have said continued flooding of the Missouri River in the days ahead is unlikely to reach the widespread, catastrophic scale seen in Nebraska and parts of Iowa - partly because much of the excess flow has dissipated through numerous levee breaches upstream that have left less water in the rivers channel. But the extensive flooding seen in Nebraska and Iowa was forecast to continue in the wider region through May and become more dire in coming weeks as water flows downstream, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officials said on Thursday. "This is shaping up to be a potentially unprecedented flood season, with more than 200 million people at risk," Ed Clark, director of NOAA's National Water Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, said on Thursday in the agency's spring outlook. Story continues TRUMP APPROVES FEDERAL FUNDING Floodwaters have already swamped a large swath of Missouri, Nebraska and Iowa along North America's longest river. A state of emergency has been declared in all or parts of the three Midwestern farm states. U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday approved a disaster declaration for Nebraska, making federal funding available to affected individuals in nine counties in the state, as well as state, local and Native American tribal governments and some private nonprofit organizations. More rain is in the forecast for the coming days, likely exacerbating the situation. "This isn't over," said David Roth, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center. He added that the Missouri River will see several more major flood crests over the next week. The river's next major flood crest is forecast to hit St. Joseph, Missouri, at 6 a.m. CDT (1100 GMT) on Friday and a day later in Kansas City, Missouri, 55 miles (90 km) to the south, according to the Army Corps of Engineers. The Missouri empties into the Mississippi River, potentially threatening several Midwestern and Southern states, including Arkansas and Louisiana. About 200 people voluntarily evacuated from the small city of Winthrop and Lewis and Clark Village in Buchanan County, Missouri, after an area levee was breached on Thursday, said local emergency management coordinator Bill Brinton. "These people may get flooded two or three times over the next month or so," Brinton said. Howard Geib, 54, owns a farm near the town of Craig in Holt County, Missouri, which ordered a mandatory evacuation on Wednesday. Geib said a levee near his farm broke over the weekend, and he saw at least 10 levees in the county that have broken. "They broke," Geib said on Thursday. "There are 600-, 700-, 1,000-foot-long holes in the levees." The deputy commander of the Army Corps' Omaha District, which encompasses the Missouri River watershed downstream to St. Joseph, said on Wednesday there had been more than 30 breaches across the public levee system in the region. More than 2,400 homes and businesses in Nebraska have been destroyed or damaged, with 200 miles (320 km) of roads unusable and 11 bridges wiped out, according to authorities. The state's governor, Pete Ricketts, thanked Trump for his federal disaster declaration as Nebraskans prepared to recover from what he called "the most widespread natural disaster in our state's history." Ricketts estimated the floods caused at least $439 million in damage to public infrastructure and other assets, and $85 million to privately owned assets. He put flood damage for the state's agricultural sector at nearly $1 billion. Mark Hamilton, a 59-year-old retired military officer, has lived in a mobile home in Arlington, Nebraska, for the last 23 years but was forced to flee when it flooded. He said he lost his house, motorcycle and truck at a total cost of about $150,000. "We've had floods nine, 10 years ago but it was nothing like this," Hamilton said. "That entire trailer park needs to be removed now, nobody can live there." (Additional reporting by Rich McKay in Atlanta, Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee and Steve Gorman and Dan Whitcomb in Los Angeles; Writing by Dan Whitcomb Editing by G Crosse, Nick Carey and Jonathan Oatis) Shoes are produced for export to Europe at Hai Duong Shoe Joint Stock Company in Hai Duong provinces Gia Loc District. (Photo: VNA) Diep Thanh Kiet, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Leather and Footwear Association (Lefaso), said Vietnam follows just China in leather and footwear exports with more than 1 billion pairs of shoes each year. From now until 2025, the countrys footwear industry is still competing well in terms of labour costs, per capita income, economic policies and export markets, he said. China has continued its policy on reducing investment incentives in the textiles, garment and footwear sectors to focus on high-tech industries so contracts for processing footwear and bags would continue moving from China to Vietnam, taking advantage of opportunities from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Kiet said. According to experts at the forum, the global demand for leather and footwear in recent years has reached about 23 billion pairs. Shoes are mainly produced in 10 countries, including China, India, Vietnam and Indonesia. The experts said Vietnams leather and footwear industry needs to expand its export markets. The industry must use new technologies and environmentally-friendly materials to increase market shares in fastidious markets. In addition, many global shoe brands have moved their production from China to other countries, mainly Indonesia, due to many reasons, including the US-China trade war, according to the experts. Therefore, Vietnamese enterprises need to understand the Governments support policy and other advantages such as 55 percent of the population in working age, to find opportunities on expanding production of export products. Vietnam has signed many free trade agreements (FTAs) or bilateral and multilateral economic agreements with many CPTPP member countries such as Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei. Meanwhile, the localisation rate in the industry has increased rapidly, reaching 50 percent. With this rate, rules of origin under commitments of the agreements are not a big obstacle to domestic footwear enterprises in enjoying preferential tariffs, according to Lefaso. The local footwear industrys export revenue to CPTPP member markets is expected to increase by 10-15 percent in 2019 because of high reduction in tariffs and other regulations in the CPTPP that became effective in Vietnam earlier this year, Phan Thi Thanh Xuan, Vice Chairwoman and General Secretary of Lefaso, said on the sidelines of the forum. The CPTPP will also help Vietnam attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) to the footwear sector to build a region of producing auxiliary materials in the country and to support domestic enterprises in gradually joining the global supply chain. According to Lefaso, the leather and footwear industry will increase the localisation rate to 60 percent from 50 percent at present. Meanwhile, leather and footwear exports will rank fourth and export bags will stand 10th among the 10 key export categories of the economy. The total export value of the leather and footwear industry in 2018 reached nearly USD20 billion, up 8.3 percent year on year. The industry has targeted to gain a growth rate of 10 percent in the total export value this year to USD21.5-22 billion, according to the association./. Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2019 > Rethinking India - Pakistan Relations The heretical political thinker of our time, Michel Foucault, explored the correlation of modern politics and war in his writings. The editors of a recent book on Foucault argued that in re-making politics, the modern age also re-made war. In interpreting Foucaults writings on war, they observed: The implication is that war is not simply an attribute of the state but related to historical processes of modern identity formation and the modern constitution of political subjectivity as well. (Michael Dillon and Andrew W. Neal, ed., Foucault on Politics, Security and War, Palgrave Macmillan, 2008, p. 9) The recent killing of more than 40 CRPF personnel in terror attack in the Pulwama district of Kashmir on February 14, 2019, created tensions in the India-Pakistan borders. In an appeal for reason, several academicians, activists, journalists, retired bureaucrats, diplomats, judges, veterans and citizens expressed concern in a petition over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. To put it in the words of the petition: Even a limited confrontation would resolve nothingneither the tensions between India and Pakistan, nor the Kashmir dispute. On the contrary, it would aggravate tensions and delay the process of conflict resolution. The principal victims of this conflict are the civilian residents of Kashmir, who have endured immense suffering over the years, including gross human rights violations. In recent days, Kashmiris have also been a target of brutal attacks across the country. (See The Wire, March 1, 2019) But, the state discourse in India immediately after the Pulwama tragedy talked in a different language. While addressing a programme in the Capital to fag off the Vande Bharat Express on February 15, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, said in this connection: The amount of anger that is there in the country, peoples blood is boiling. I can very well understand this. He also warned the terror outfits and their masters, and announced that the government had given full freedom to the security forces to act. After the escalation of India-Pakistan conflict, and with the capture of an Indian Air Force Wing Commander, Abhinandan Varthaman, by Pakistan and his later release, some apparent de-escalation has taken place. But, the future of India-Pakistan relations is still uncertain. According to a report carried in The Economic Times (March 4, 2019): The situation along the India-Pakistan border is de-escalating, but distrust of Pakistan still emanates from the armed forces in light of ongoing tensions between the two countries and the over 100 ceasefire violations since the Pulwama terrorist attack. The dominant media is playing a big role in nurturing and propagating anti-Pakistan feelings in our country. This testifies that war is not simply an attribute of the state but related to ...the modern constitution of political subjectivity as well. Beira (Mozambique) (AFP) - The death toll in Mozambique has climbed to 417 after a cyclone devastated swathes of the southern African country, flooding thousands of square kilometres (miles), the government said Saturday. Cyclone Idai smashed into the coast of central Mozambique on Friday last week, unleashing hurricane-force winds and rains that flooded the hinterland and drenched eastern Zimbabwe. "At this time 417 deaths have been recorded," Lands and Environment Minister Celso Correia told reporters in the port city of Beira. The new numbers take the combined death toll of the two neighbouring countries to 676. Nearly 90,000 Mozambicans have been moved into shelters, while thousands of others are still stranded in floodwaters. The government estimates that around one million people have been affected by the storm. "We are living an unprecedented natural disaster. A disaster that only matches major disasters," the minister said. "Unfortunately no one in the region and in the world could predict a disaster of this size," he said as the UN stepped up calls for aid for the ravaged and impoverished country. By Emma Rumney BEIRA, Mozambique (Reuters) - Rescue workers plucked more survivors to safety from trees and roofs on Thursday, a week after a cyclone ripped through southern Africa and triggered devastating floods that have killed hundreds of people and displaced hundreds of thousands. Helicopters whirred above the turbid, red-brown flood waters searching for people to ferry back to the port city of Beira, headquarters of the huge rescue operation in Mozambique. The death toll in that country was now 242, Land and Environment Minister Celso Correia said, adding that the number of dead was rising as rescue workers found bodies that had been hidden by Cyclone Idai's now-receding floodwaters. Correia told a news conference that around 15,000 people, many of them very ill, still needed to be rescued. "Our biggest fight is against the clock," he said, adding that 3,000 had been rescued so far. In neighboring Zimbabwe, the confirmed death toll jumped to 139. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, declaring two days of national mourning from Saturday, described scenes of "unmitigated despair" in Rusitu, near the border with Mozambique. In Malawi, 56 people were confirmed dead. "This is a human catastrophe of the highest order," businessman Graham Taylor told Reuters, saying he had seen "hundreds of bodies that had been washed up by the floodwater" while trying to return home after visiting his son in Beira. SHOUTING FOR HELP "What struck me first was the number of people on the rooftops and in trees. You could hear communities shouting for help - for hours, for days," said Taylor, who also described meeting people on the badly damaged highways heading towards the devastated areas in search of family members. "It was a humbling experience," he said. "I saw no sign of government assistance." Even when people are safely out of the floods, the situation is dire. Some 30 percent of the 88 centers set up by the Mozambican government for displaced people still have no food, Environment Minister Correia said. Idai lashed Beira with winds of up to 170 km per hour (105 miles per hour) a week ago, then moved inland to Zimbabwe and Malawi, flattening buildings. The storm's torrential rains caused the Buzi and Pungue rivers, whose mouths are in the Beira area, to burst their banks. The United Nations World Food Program (WFP), which is coordinating food drops, said as many as 1.7 million people in Mozambique would need food aid in the next three months. The scale of the flooding is huge - the U.N. satellite agency says floodwaters covered 2,165 sq km (835 sq miles) on March 20. Some 90 percent of the city of Beira was damaged, the WFP said, while aerial assessments over the Buzi valley showed "entire villages wiped out". Mozambique's National Disasters Management Institute (INGC) said some 358,000 hectares (885,000 acres) of crops had been destroyed. Thirty-nine hospitals had been damaged, it said. With more rain forecast for Beira on Thursday, Christian worshippers sang hymns on an empty patch of land where a pulpit was all that remained of their Pentecostal church. "Here in Beira, all the churches have collapsed from this cyclone ... Oh my dear brothers, please pray for us," said Pastor Luis Semente. "Only God can restore this." AIRDROPS STEPPED UP A priority for Thursday was pushing into flooded areas that had not yet been surveyed, said Connor Hartnady, leader of a South African rescue task force. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said it was sending two emergency units to Beira that would provide drinking water for up to 15,000 people and sanitation facilities for 20,000, as well as shelter kits. "More help is needed, and we are continuing to do all we can to bring in more resources and to reach more people," said Jamie LeSueur, the IFRC's operations head in Mozambique. The WFP stepped up airdrops of high-energy biscuits and water purification tablets to isolated pockets of people stranded by the floodwaters. Mnangagwa said in a televised address that in Rusitu he had seen big boulders strewn over what had been a settlement, a banana market and a police post. Floods had washed away police officers and prisoners, he said. The Christian charity Tearfund said the timing of the floods was disastrous, with harvesting due to start in coming weeks. Even before the floods, 5.3 million people had been experiencing food shortages, said its Zimbabwe director, Earnest Maswera. Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi has said the eventual death toll from the cyclone and ensuing floods could be more than 1,000. Mozambique's tiny $13 billion economy is still recovering from a currency collapse and debt default. The cyclone knocked out Mozambican electricity exports to South Africa, exacerbating power cuts that were already straining businesses in Africa's most industrialized economy. (Additional reporting by Nqobile Dludla in Johannesburg, MacDonald Dzirutwe in Harare, Philimon Bulawayo in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe, Manuel Mucari in Maputo, Tom Miles in Geneva and Catarina Demony in Lisbon; Writing by Gareth Jones and Frances Kerry; Editing by Kevin Liffey) Lagos (AFP) - Nigerians returned to vote in governorship and state elections on Saturday after polling a fortnight ago was declared invalid in some areas because of violence. The decision by Nigeria's electoral board to void March 9 elections in six states came two weeks after President Muhammadu Buhari won a second term in a poll denounced by his main rival as fraudulent. The INEC, the National Electoral Commission, said violence and other irregularities had prompted voting to be cancelled in some areas of Kano and Sokoto, in the northwest, Bauchi and Adamawa in the northwest, and the central states of Benue and Plateau. Another poll, in Rivers state, had been suspended. Around half a million registered voters were eligible to cast their ballot Saturday. Results are expected from early next week. The governorship races in the six states are closely fought between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). State parliamentary elections were also taking place across the country. Tempers have been frayed since Buhari's re-election, with the defeated PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar challenging the result in an election tribunal and claiming that results in several states were manipulated. Election observers meanwhile criticised the organisation and running of the governorship and state elections, as well as presidential and parliamentary polls on February 23, citing reports of vote buying and intimidation. Situation Room, an umbrella group of more than 70 civil society organisations monitoring the vote, has called for an independent inquiry into the entire election process. The PDP denounced INEC's decision to halt voting in affected states, claiming it was "clearly leading the (governorship) race," accusing INEC of collusion with the ruling party. INEC was "seeking ways to use the situation to aid the APC to alter the results and announce APC candidates as winners", it said in a statement Monday. Story continues Buhari's APC won 13 states in the governorship elections, with the PDP winning 9. Regional elections are fiercely contested in Nigeria, where governors are powerful and influential figures, controlling state finances and responsible for key areas from education to health. Buhari will hope to consolidate his re-election victory whilst the opposition PDP seeks to claw back power at the state level. Oslo (AFP) - A cruise liner that ran into trouble in rough seas off Norway was being towed to port on Sunday after hundreds of passengers were helicoptered to safety. The Viking Sky lost power and started drifting mid-afternoon Saturday in perilous waters two kilometres (1.2 miles) off More og Romsdal, prompting the captain to send out a distress call. The authorities launched an airlift in very difficult conditions rather than run the risk of leaving people on board. "We would rather have the passengers on land rather than on board the ship," police chief Tor Andre Franck said. By Sunday, the crew had managed to restart three of its four engines and two tugs arrived. Authorities said 460 of the 1,373 people on board had been taken off by five helicopters before the airlift was halted to allow the towing to start. Police said 17 people had been taken to hospital, one in their 90s and two 70-year-olds suffered serious fractures. "The evacuation has been put on pause for now", a spokesman for southern Norway's rescue centre told AFP. "The captain will weigh up the situation" before deciding if the airlift resumes, he added. The vessel was heading for the port of Molde, with 60 kilometres (45 miles) still to go, and about 500 kilometres northwest of Oslo, officials said. Dramatic footage of the passengers' ordeal showed furniture and plants sliding round the lurching vessel as parts of the ceiling came down. Dozens of passengers wearing life jackets were seated around waiting to get off the vessel. "I have never seen anything so frightening," said Janet Jacob, who was rescued. "I started to pray. I prayed for the safety of everyone on board," she told the NRK television channel. "The helicopter trip was terrifying. The winds were like a tornado," she added. "We were sitting down for breakfast when things started to shake... It was just chaos," said another passenger, American John Curry, as quoted in Norwegian by media. Story continues Passenger Rodney Horgan said he had been reminded of the Titanic. "The best word, I guess, is surreal," he said. "Sea water 6-7 feet (about two metres) high just came rushing in, hit the tables, chairs, broken glass and 20-30 people just ... went right in front of me. "I was standing, my wife was sitting in front of me and all of a sudden, she was gone. And I thought this was the end," Horgan said. But it all ended well for Ryan Flynn. "Here's my 83-year-old dad being airlifted from the #vikingsky," he said. "We are all off the ship safely!" - Notorious seas - The Viking Sky sent out a distress signal due to "engine problems in bad weather", the rescue centre tweeted earlier. The ship was sailing south from Tromso to Stavanger when engine trouble struck in an area that has claimed many vessels. "It is dangerous to encounter engine problems in these waters, which hide numerous reefs," said Tor Andre Franck, the head of police operations. A reception centre was set up in a gym on shore to accommodate the evacuees, many of whom are elderly and from the US and Britain. "For the moment everything appears to be going well," said a rescue centre spokesman, Einar Knutsen. The area where the ship got into problems, known as Hustadvika, is notoriously difficult to navigate. The shallow, 10 nautical mile section of coastline is dotted with small islands and reefs. "Hustadvika is one of the most notorious maritime areas that we have," Odd Roar Lange, a journalist specialising in tourism, told NRK. In their time, the Vikings hesitated to venture into the Hustadvika, preferring instead to transport their boats by land from one fjord to another. Operated by the Norwegian firm Viking Ocean Cruises, the Viking Sky was launched in 2017 with a capacity of 930 passengers plus crew. In addition to US and British nationals, there were also passengers from 14 other countries on board, Fjeld said. It never fails. Whenever a Republican president makes a controversial or contentious move to support Israel such as moving the American embassy to Jerusalem, or yesterdays decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights youll see various explainers and other stories that purport to inform progressives why the American Evangelical community is so devoted to the nation of Israel. The explanation goes something like this Evangelicals believe that the rebirth of Israel is hastening not just the second coming of Christ, but a particular kind of second coming, one that includes fire, fury, and war that will consume the Jewish people. The pithy, tweet-length version of this analysis comes from progressive Young Turks host Cenk Uygur: You know what's REAL anti-semitism? Right-wing Evangelical Christians supporting Israel because they think it will bring about the End Times where all of the Jews die. Worst anti-Semitism in the world! Cenk Uygur (@cenkuygur) March 7, 2019 Thus, the political marriage between American Evangelicals and Israelis represents a cynical form of mutual exploitation. Evangelicals support Israel to hasten the apocalypse, while Israelis (who obviously dont believe Christian eschatology) are happy to humor the Evangelical community and milk that support for tourist dollars and political power. But the true narrative of American Christian support for Israel is substantially different. The intellectual and theological roots of Christian Zionism do not rest in end-times prophesies but rather in Old Testament promises. Last month Samuel Goldman at Tablet wrote an outstanding piece explaining the centuries-old history and legacy of Christian support for Jewish claims to the Holy Land. After tracing Christian support for a Jewish Israel to the Reformation, he writes this: Story continues These arguments were products of the emphases on the plain meaning of Scripture and the theological significance of covenants that characterized Calvinism. Before the Reformation, most Christians read prophecies like Ezekiels as allegories for the transformation of the carnal Israel descended from the patriarchs into the spiritual Israel represented by the Church. Calvin and his followers, by contrast, insisted that allegorical interpretations were permitted only when literal ones made no sense. But why was it nonsensical to believe that the Jews might be reconstituted as a nation and return to their own land? In addition, Id argue that Romans 11 has enduring significance in the American Christian mind. It begins, I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! Paul declares that God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew. The chapter continues with the assertion that Gentiles have now been grafted in to the same spiritual tree, and it concludes with the promise not that all Israel will be burned up in the apocalypse, but rather with the statement that all Israel will be saved. Now, the precise theological meaning of these verses has been and will be debated for some time, but the practical impact in contemporary American Christian culture has been to create a bond between American Christians and Jews that would be utterly mystifying to the vicious Christian persecutors of Jews in the not-so-distant European past. The end result is a community including a political community that believes two things with firm conviction. First, God has reserved Israel as the Jewish homeland, and second, that the creation of modern Israel was an act of divine providence. While there are many Christians who believe this act of divine providence may be a prelude to the Second Coming (whenever that may be), that is miles and miles away from the belief that Jews will burn in a fiery apocalypse. These beliefs are then reinforced by experience and basic morality. Its difficult to overstate the profound impact that a visit to the Holy Land has on a believing Christian. Ill never forget my time in Israel. Not only was it moving to stand where Jesus stood and to walk where Jesus walked, other aspects of the visit bring the miracle of Israels rebirth into sharp focus. How can you visit the ruins of the fortress of Masada and not grasp the improbability of the journey from total destruction to diaspora to renaissance? Then theres basic morality. As Ive written before, from the very moment of its founding, Israel has been subject to repeated, genocidal threats to its existence. It has defended itself in the face of overwhelming odds, faced enduring terrorist threats that we in the United States cant imagine, and built an imperfect but well-functioning democracy that grants all its citizens (Jewish and Arab) a greater degree of individual liberty than the citizens of any other Middle Eastern nation. The pernicious persistence of anti-Semitism heightens the moral case for supporting Israel. There is zero justification for the U.N.s obsessive focus on alleged Israeli crimes. Actual genocidal tyrants face less condemnation by the U.N. Human Rights Council than does the state of Israel. The Boycott, Divest, and Sanctions (BDS) movement proudly holds Israel to higher standards than it holds the entire rest of the Middle East and most of the rest of the world. Some of its founders and leaders hope to eradicate Israel as a Jewish state. Finally, the fact that Evangelical support for Israel is rooted in part in Christian biblical interpretation does not mean that it is somehow less legitimate than purely secular support. In a nation full of believers, religious arguments have always been a part of our national life, and they always will be. They should be weighed and measured just like any other belief. Nor are religious arguments a right-wing phenomenon. There are liberal religious arguments for gun control, for laxer immigration policies, and for welcoming refugees, to take just a few, easy examples. And who can forget the mighty power of the Christian argument in the American civil-rights movement? Yes, you can find Christians who obsessively focus on the end times and try to match each and every significant news story in Israel with biblical prophecies. Those people are out there, no question. But the vast bulk of Evangelical support for Israel rests on faith in ancient promises, wonder at modern miracles, and a deep conviction that evil forces must not prevail against the Middle Easts most vibrant democracy. More from National Review WASHINGTON (AP) Democratic presidential candidates Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders and Kamala Harris won't attend the American Israel Public Affairs Committee's annual conference in Washington next week. Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, who is considering an independent bid for president, will also avoid the conference. The moves come as the liberal advocacy group MoveOn has called on Democrats presidential candidates to skip this year's policy conference. Aides to the White House hopefuls confirmed their decisions. All requested anonymity to discuss scheduling. Several Democrats seeking the presidency have spoken at the group's annual conference in the past. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (neh-ten-YAH'-hoo) is to appear at this year's conference, as are a number of Democratic political leaders, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer. Beirut (AFP) - Here are key developments in the final battle by US-backed Kurdish-Arab forces to conquer the jihadist Islamic State group's last redoubt in Deir Ezzor province in eastern Syria. - 'Operation Roundup' - On September 10, 2018, the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) launch the third phase of "Operation Roundup", to clear eastern Syria of its last IS holdouts. Under phase one of the operation launched on May 1, the Kurdish-dominated force drives IS from the area around Baghouz in two weeks. Under phase two, on June 17 it pushes the jihadists from their bastion of Dashisha in Hasakeh province. The village had been one of the last IS-controlled areas in a corridor linking Syria with Iraq. After initial progress, in late October the SDF is forced to retreat after deadly IS counterattacks. They then announce a temporary halt to the offensive due to bombardments by the Turkish army against Kurdish military positions in northern Syria. On November 11 the SDF relaunches its operation to seize the last remnants of IS territory, which once covered vast swathes of Syria and Iraq. - Last IS town taken - On December 14, the SDF takes Hajin near the Iraqi border, the last town of note still under IS control. On January 23, 2019, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor says the SDF has overrun Baghouz, the last IS-held village in Syria. A day later the jihadists carry out a failed counterattack in a bid to retake the village, of which they still hold a small patch, according to an SDF commander. On February 7 the international coalition says IS now controls less than one percent of its self-declared caliphate, confirming comments a day earlier by US President Donald Trump. - 'Decisive battle' begins - On February 9 the SDF says it has begun the "decisive battle" against the remaining pocket of the jihadists. "The SDF are advancing slowly in what remains of the IS pocket," Syrian Observatory for Human Rights chief Rami Abdel Rahman says two days later. Story continues Landmines, IS snipers, and tunnels the extremists have dug out for their defence are hindering the advance, he says. - 'Human shields' - On February 16 an SDF spokesman says his forces have slowed down their advance to protect the "large numbers" of civilians inside. SDF commander Jia Furat says civilians are "trapped there as human shields". On February 22 Human Rights Watch urges the SDF and the US-led coalition to make protecting civilians a priority. "Witnesses described harrowing conditions in the last months," it says. They arrive "extremely hungry and dehydrated" and many of them require urgent medical care, the International Rescue Committee says, pointing to new deaths among children. On February 27 men, women and children packed on trucks leave the last IS patch under the supervision of the SDF, in the fifth evacuation in a week. A day later the SDF says it has discovered a mass grave containing the severed heads of women near Baghouz. - Final assault - On March 1 the SDF launches its final assault against the last IS redoubt, a riverside encampment in the village of Baghouz. A day later the SDF says it has breached the jihadists' perimeter. Artillery fire and airstrikes target jihadist positions. On March 3, the Kurdish-Arab forces slow down its campaign on the last IS pocket to allow tens of thousands of civilians and surrendering jihadists out from their enclave. The alliance on March 10 says a deadline for surrender has passed and the assault has been resumed. - Cornered on Euphrates banks - On March 19 advancing Kurdish-led forces push diehard IS fighters out of their main encampment, cornering them along the banks of the Euphrates. The military campaign resumes on March 22 after a pause of two days. On Saturday, the Kurdish-led forces pronounced the death of the Islamic State's caliphate. "Syrian Democratic Forces declare total elimination of so-called caliphate and 100 percent territorial defeat of ISIS," spokesman Mustefa Bali said in a statement. Omar Oil Field (Syria) (AFP) - The top military commander in Syria's autonomous Kurdish region urged Damascus on Saturday to choose the path of dialogue after his forces sealed a key victory over the Islamic State group. "We call on the central government in Damascus to prefer the process of dialogue," Mazloum Kobane, the overall commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, said in a statement. He read part of the statement at a ceremony to pay homage to his fallen comrades and celebrate the capture of Baghouz, the very last pocket of territory held by IS, which SDF forces took after weeks of fighting. The statement urged the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to "start practical steps to reach a political solution based on the recognition" of autonomous institutions and of the SDF's special status. Syria's eight-year conflict has seen the country's Kurds carve out a large de facto autonomous region in the oil-rich northeast. The Kurdish-dominated SDF has acted as the ground force of the US-led military coalition that intervened in Syria and Iraq in September 2014 to counter the expansion of IS. The following year, a Russian military intervention helped Assad claw back key territories from rebels who had seized them in the country's 2011 uprising. His government now controls about two thirds of Syria, but the northeast remains under the control of US-backed Kurdish-led forces. Washington has however said it would significantly downscale its military footprint after the defeat of IS. That has left the Kurds exposed to threats by the regime and Turkey, which fears its own Kurdish population could be encouraged to seek further autonomy. The Syrian defence minister has issued a clear warning that Damascus had no intention of allowing the United States to maintain its influence over the area. "The only card that remains in the hands of the Americans and their allies is" the SDF, Ali Ayoub said on Monday. Story continues "The Syrian government will deal with this issue in one of two ways: a reconciliation agreement or liberating the territory (controlled by the SDF) by force," he said. The SDF also urged Ankara to seek dialogue. The Turkish government considers the Kurdish component of the SDF a "terrorist" organisation linked to Turkey-based Kurdish militants, and has repeatedly threatened a cross-border military offensive. By Tom Perry BEIRUT (Reuters) - The Syrian government vowed to take back the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights as its allies and enemies alike condemned U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday for moving to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the territory seized in war. Trump's statement on Thursday marked a dramatic shift in U.S. policy over the status of a disputed area that Israel captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East conflict and annexed in 1981 - a move not recognized internationally. Against this backdrop of hostility toward the U.S. move, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited Beirut where he took aim at Israel's main regional foes - Hezbollah and its backer Iran - and declared the success of U.S. sanctions against them. Trump's declaration is the latest U.S. step to fuel anger in the region, both in states that are hostile to Israel and others that have relations with it and are allied to the United States. It follows the U.S. recognition in December 2017 of Jerusalem as Israel's capital - a decision that also stirred international criticism as the city's disputed status remains at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Russia, an ally of President Bashar al-Assad with forces in Syria, said Trump's comments risked seriously destabilizing the region, and it voiced hope the statement was just declaratory. Iran, Assad's main regional ally and which also has forces in Syria, condemned the statement as illegal and unacceptable. "The personal decisions of Trump...will lead to crisis in the region," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman said. Turkey, a U.S. ally and an adversary of Damascus, also said the move had brought the Middle East to the edge of a new crisis and the legitimization of the occupation of the Golan Heights could not be allowed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked Trump for his gesture "at a time when Iran seeks to use Syria as a platform to destroy Israel". It could help Netanyahu in the midst of a tough re-election battle, analysts said. The Syrian government said the Golan was an "indivisible" part of Syrian territory and recovering it "via all means guaranteed by international law is still a priority". It said United States with its "stupidity and arrogance" had no right to decide the fate of the area and any move to recognize Israeli sovereignty over it was "an illegal action with no impact". After remaining calm for decades since a 1974 armistice monitored by U.N. peacekeepers, Golan re-emerged as a flashpoint for regional tensions during the Syrian war. Last May, Israel accused Iran's Revolutionary Guards of launching a rocket salvo into its territory from the Syrian side of the truce line. Israel, which has mounted numerous air strikes against what it has called Iran-backed targets in Syria, has demanded Russia keep forces allied to Tehran away from the boundary. The Syrian side was held by rebel forces for years until pro-government forces recovered it in July. U.S. OFFICIAL: ISRAEL "COULD NOT GIVE UP THE GOLAN" Jason Greenblatt, a senior White House adviser, said on Twitter that "under any conceivable circumstance, Israel could not give up the Golan ... To do so would endanger Israel's very existence". But Fouad Mundhir, a Syrian whose home village is in Israeli-occupied Golan, said Trump was "cancelling the will of an entire nation. "You say you are carrying the flag of democracy. Okay, Mr. Trump, have you taken into account the will of the people of the Golan?" he told Reuters in Jaramana, near Damascus. In the Golan itself, Druze Arabs also rejected the move, while Israeli settlers welcomed it. The European Union said its position on the status of the Golan Heights was unchanged and that it did not recognize Israeli sovereignty over the strategic plateau. Germany said any change in borders should be "done through peaceful means between all those involved", while France said it did not recognize the Israeli annexation of the Golan and any recognition was contrary to international law. The Arab League, which suspended Syria in 2011 after the start of its civil war, said Trump had paved "the way for official American recognition" of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan and called this "completely beyond international law". Egypt, which made peace with Israel in 1979, said it still considers the Golan as occupied Syrian territory. Israel says Syria's civil war has reaffirmed the need to keep the plateau - coveted for its water resources and fertile soil - as a buffer zone between Israeli towns and the instability of its neighbor. In Lebanon, Pompeo said the United States would continue to use "all peaceful means" to choke off funding that "feeds Iran and Hezbollah terror operations". "Lebanon faces a choice: bravely move forward as an independent and proud nation, or allow the dark ambitions of Iran and Hezbollah to dictate your future," he said. Hezbollah-aligned Lebanese leaders including President Michel Aoun told him the group was a Lebanese party with popular support. The group has three cabinet ministers and together with its allies controls more than 70 of parliament's 128 seats. The United States is a major donor to the Lebanese army but its allies, including the Sunni Muslim Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, have been weakened as Iran's role has deepened through Lebanon, Iraq and Syria and Saudi influence has receded. Washington has reintroduced sanctions on Iran and imposed new financial sanctions on Hezbollah which Lebanon's Hezbollah-aligned president, Michel Aoun, said on Thursday were hurting all Lebanese. (Reporting by Ali Abdelaty in Cairo/Tom Perry in Beirut, Maria Kiselyova in Moscow, and Parisa Hafezi in Dubai, Yousef Saba in Cairo, Ezgi Erkoyun and Ali Kucukgocmen in Istanbul, Kinda Makieh in Damascus, Joseph Nasr in Berlin, Robin Emmot in Brussels, Dan Williams in Jerusalem; Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Mark Heinrich) Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2019 > Stocktaking after the Ordeal From N.C.s Writings The following is another piece written by N.C. during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. This constituted the authors New Delhi Skyline written soon after the ceasefire on September 23, 1965. An ordeal by fire is not necessarily the best moment to expect a chastened mood in a nation. The upheaval through which New Delhi has just passed could hardly be expected to restore immediately the balance needed for a sternly objective appraisal of the six stormy weeks that preceded the Cease Fire in the early hours of September 23. For New Delhi as for the entire country, it was an overwhelming experience, the trials and tribulations as also the emotional stresses of a modern war, the first that has come its way since independence. The tragic content of the spectacle of two neighbours, born out of the same parentage, being locked in bloody comabt was almost lost in the sweep of a nationwide fervour that identified what the President had characterised as this wasteful bloodshed, with the crusade in defence of the motherland. What was perhaps missed by many was that on the other side of the front too the common humanity could look upon this very war with the same patriotic tenacity in defence of the soil of Pakistan. One of the main reasons for this demonstration of pride in the performance of the armed forces was the underlying feeling that they could this time redeem the honour that was lost three years ago with the cowardly retreat of the Commanding General in the NEFA against the Chinese Army. The national shame suffered at Sela and Bomdila in November 1962 was wiped off by the valour displayed at Haji Pir and Sialkot in September 1965. Besides, as may of the friendly foreign observers could testify, this brief spell of war almost served, may be unreasonably, as a safety-valve for pent-up frustration in many spheres; while the event is as yet too near for the nation to fully add up the heavy toll that a developing country has to meet on account of a present-day war. Besides, some of the ugly facets of any war can hardly be escaped in our case and those who have visited the frontlines have come back with a realistic understanding of what war means in terms of not only human misery but of its dehumanising compulsions as well. In the emotional upsurge that has swept the country in these few weeks, a sense of oneness has scored over parochialism, and narrow communal fanaticism was, for the time being at least, kept at bay. No small contribution on this score was made by Sri Sadiq and his intrepid band in Kashmir. Perhaps the fact that our armed forces, whether on land or in the sky, united as one unwavering fraternity, could give a good account of themselves staved off the bitter anger out of which communal fury is often begot. How much of this striking secularism of today could stand the strain of any military setback at the front against the Pakistani troops is yet to be tested. From New Delhi one could hardly notice any panic among the common people placed right in the battle zones. Though by the grim standards of twentieth-century war it was brief in duration and limited in extent, the fact that near-normalcy could prevail even in the sensitive areas throughout the time when the battles were on, particularly in the Punjab, is itself ascribed to the complete absence of sagging morale. Rather it one stage, early in the conflict, an amateurish tendency was noticeable, a tendency which, elated by the initial military successes, seemed to take an almost Carthago-delenda-est stand against Pakistan. This cocksure outlook was very correcly scotched by the Defence Minister in Parliament at the height of the operations on September 10a date which roughly marked the point of checkmate in the overall progress of our Army in combat. And in this respect, the Army Chief himself displayed unusual common sense; meeting the press on the morrow of the Cease Fire, he refused to claim that the back of the Pakistan Army had been broken. The Field Commanders have also been remarkably circumspect in listing their own achievements. One is tempted to conclude that the political leadership itself was anxious not to delude the public with an exaggerated picture of military gains, for they have the sagacity to understand that it was the element of surprise in the Indian strategy at the initial stage that mainly ensured in a spectacular way the major operations being conducted mostly on Pakistani soil. Two things however are conceded even by the severest of critical observers as solid Indian achievements: firstly, the Kashmir Valley could be saved from Pakistans military offensive; secondly, the superiority in arms, provided by the Pentagon, could not give Pakistan the run-away victory that the responsible leaders in Rawalpindi were reported to have had braggingly forecast to the Western diplomats just about a week before the full-scale operations started on September 1. The political implications of these two achievements in the field are expected to be far-reaching, according to the New Delhi authorities. In their calculation, the fact that India did not hesitate to face all the hazards of a full-scale war extending from Dwarka in the west to Bagdogra in the east, and actually succeeded in staving off the armed attack on the Kashmir Valley, should open the eyes of Pakistans leaders, and their friends abroad, that no government in India would or could let the Jammu and Kashmir State as it is constituted today, to go out of the Indian Union. Any move for a political settlement of the Kashmir question will thus find it difficult to escape this reality. From New Delhis point of view, the settlement of the Kashmir question has, thanks to this war, been reduced to fringe adjustments to the status quo in Kashmir. Secondly, the psychological complex in favour of having indiscriminate arms aid, noticeable in certain well-known sections of the Right, has been largely removed; and in this way, the Shastri Government finds itself today in a better position to vindicate the Nehru policy of non-alignment in foreign affairs and reasonable self-reliance in defence production. It is not without significance that Smt. Indira Gandhis exhortation that we have to stand on our own feet and to bear the entire burden ourselves, has received wide acclaim even from circles which can hardly be identified with the Left. It is in this context that one cannot escape noticing in New Delhi considerable slump in American prestige particularly with regard to its politics of military alliances. The discredit of the Patton tank in the eyes of the man in the street in India today may have been magnified due to ignorance of technical knowledge; but the discredit of the foreign policy based on the lavish gift of Patton tanks can hardly be concealed despite Mr Chester Bowles frantic lobbying and explanatory campaign in the Capital. The setback for the Patton has helped to lift Sri Krishna Menons standing, for it is Sri Menons tenacious emphasis on self-reliance in Defence during his tenure in the Cabinet which has paid rich dividends in the present military campaign. Many among those who were critical of Sri Menon as the Defence Minister can no longer belittle the long-range importance of his Defence Economics. It is therefore quite on the cards that Sri Menon may be playing a more and more prominent role in the affairs of the Establishment. His trip to Cairo may be the opening of a purposeful phase. Along with Sri Menon, the prestige of the Congress Left, as also of the Left outside the Congress, has, to some extent, been enhanced. The case for building an independent economy has inevitably been strengthened by the positive experience of having indigenously-built defence equipment. The national oil policy of Sri K.D. Malaviya has also got a boost, as much as the Swatantra crusade against the public sector in basic industries is expected to suffer a reverse. But the battle for the Fourth Plan is going to be more difficult. Sri Asoka Mehta will have to cross many more bridges, and even then the top priority for Defence is bound to shrink the Plan budget on other heads. Although public-sector defence production has got the praise due to it, it would however be incorrect to conclude that planning in the new context will automatically set its face against powerful private interests in industry and finance. Rather the present indications in New Delhi suggest that while the government will stress on Defence as top priority, the argument is being sharpened that in order to relieve the burden of development on the taxpayer, the government should allow greater scope for the private sector. The production of basic goods might be stepped up inside the country, but there is no guarantee that it would not pass on, to a large measure, to the Big Business. The battle for the public sector does not seem to be assured of automatic victory: the battle is yet to be fought and won by the Left. The Congress Right is no doubt in disarrary but nobody in New Delhi is naive enough to suggest that it was suffered a defeat. Sri Morarji Desai is in difficulty of finding an issue with which to discredit the Shastri leadership, more firmly entrenched as it is as a result of the present crisis. Sri S.K. Patil is under a cloud as it has come to be known that he could not fall in line with some of the crucial decisions on the present confrontation against Pakistan. His split Swantantraite personality seems to be suffering from the same agonising indecision as Sri Masani himself. At the same time, one has to recognise that the Jan Sangh in this crisis has been most prominently active. The Congress circles however point out that the Jan Sanghs anti-Muslim frenzy has been curbed because the fight against Pakistan has become an issue of national defence and not just a communal crusade. However, careful observers tend to agree that the Jan Sanghs election propspects have been enhanced since it can claim that its uncompromising antipathy to Pakistan has been vindicated. Almost resembling the Swantantra, the Left Communist quandary has been most accentuated by the present developments. Sri Namboodiripads discomfiture is no longer a secret, since he has the unenviable task of reconciling his personal annoyance at the Pakistani and the Chinese actions against India with the unalloyed pro-Peking leanings of some of the ultra-revolutionaries in his newly-found Party. The point of polarisation inside the Left Communist ranks seems to have been reached. What would be the political significance of the nationwide tribute spontaneously showered on the Armed Forces? There is no doubt that the leadership of the Defence forces has not only come to be widely known all over the country but today commands the admiration of all sections of public opinion. This is no doubt in keeping with the present national mood. How far the Armed forces will play a significant part in the political life of the country time alone can show; and that too can be known only in times of crisis. At the moment, the attitude of the bulk of the officer class is echoed by a Field Commander receiving a team of Parliament Members with the words: We are your servants. In the present temper in the Capital this expression of robust loyalty to the sovereign Parliament has not received the publicity it deserves. In the sphere of foreign affairs, the Indo-Pak armed conflict has brought to the fore the question of this countrys future links with the Commonwealth. An outstanding feature of New Delhis political life today is that the Quit-Commonwealth slogan has become widely popular in the Congress circles. Although the Prime Minister disfavoured the presentation of a formal memorandum of protest to the UK High Commissioner by a group of MPs, it is an open secret that Sri Shastri has not in the least discouraged the Congress members coming out sharply against Indias continued association with the Commonwealth on the floor of the House. Sri Bhagwat Jha Azads resolution in the Lok Sabha practically got the green signal when the Prime Minister himself condemned the Whitehall stand at a public meeting in the Capital three days later. While Mr John Freeman has conveyed to Mr Wilson the magnitude of Indian indignation at the British role in the Kashmir dispute, the British circles here seem to be confident that India would have second thoughts on the question of quitting the Commonwealth. Their calculations seem to be based on the assumption that secession from the Commonwealth would hit this countrys foreign trade, and it will take time for India to work out an alternate trade pattern on a global scale. They also pin their hope on the pull of their lobby inside the Secretariat ranging from the External Affairs to the Finance Ministry. The US embarrassment has been most acute over the stark realisation by all sections in India that Pakistan could fight the war against this country almost entirely with the American gifted arms. This is a point which the government spokesmen have been directed to underline in their public pronouncements. The general impression here about Washingtons attitude is that it is opposed to the continuation of the Indo-Pak war as such; at the same time, there is a very strong suspicion that while anxious for a Cease Fire, the US authorities would exert the maximum pressure in the coming weeks for a political decision on Kashmir which will tend to favour Pakistan; although the demand for plebiscite seems to have lost weight in Washington, other proposalsincluding the JP plan for a variant of condominiumseem to be under the State Departments consideration. In other words, the US diplomatic pressure is likely to be stepped up to force New Delhi to modify its present stand of complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the Indian Union. Not only Sri Rajagopalacharis views but even Sri Namboo-diripads declaration that the political status of Kashmir can by no means be regarded as settled has aroused interest in official US circles in the Capital. The report that the Pentagon seems to favour the resumption of US arms aid to Pakistan has not come as a surprise here. Informed quarters in New Delhi have long held the view that the Pntagon and the CIA have never been alienated from President Ayub so long as he permitted the continuation of the U-2 base at Peshawar; on the other hand, the State Department has been annoyed by Pakistans hobnobbing with Peking. Hence the strange spectacle of the Pentagon canvassing for arms for Ayub, while the World Bank repeatedly postponing the Aid-Pak Consortium meeting. The argument trotted out by Mr Bowles men in New Delhi in apologia for the Pentagon move is interesting: So long as the Pakistan Government remained in loyal subservience to the US there was no danger of any attack on India: bellicosity in Rawalpindi came as a consequence of its moorings with Washington getting weakened. If Pakistan coiuld once again be brought within the orbit of total US control, India would not have to fear any fresh armed attack from Pakistan. This is no doubt an extraordinary piece of dollar dialectics by which the US arms gift were supposed to ensure peaceful proclivities in Pakistan, an argument which directly runs counter to New Delhis bitter experience, gained over more than a decade, that it is the large-scale induction of US arms through military alliance that has heightened the danger of the Indo-Pak war. It appears that New Delhis opinion will considerably harden against Washington if the Pentagon proposal to resume arms aid to Pakistan is put through. In contrast to Britains sorry plight and the US disconfiture, Moscow at the moment is enjoying the sunshine of Sri Shastris confidence. Apart from the Soviet Unions traditional stand on Kashmir, which has always been favourable towards India, the Soviet leaders seem to have taken pains to explain to New Delhi that any accretion of the Soviet influence in Rawalpindi through patience and goodwill would in the long run be to this countrys advantage, since it will to that extent neutralise Pakistans leanings towards both Peking and Washington. This rather daring experiment at international diplomacy on the part of Moscow has not created misunderstanding in New Delhi, though some pro-US commentators have started talking about Moscows let-down. The Shastri Govern-ment was known to have decided to accept the Soviet offer of mediation in the very week-end that U Thant was here, that is, long before Mr. Kosygins letter was formally replied to by Sri Shastri. There is however a feeling of pessimism in certain circles here about the prospects of the proposed Tashkent summit, though there is not the least misgivings about the Soviet leaderships objective in promoting Indo-Pak peace. With the regular war brought to an end by an uneasy peace that has accompanied the Security Councils mandate for a Cease Fire, there is speculation in New Delhi about the political crisis that is supposed to be brewing inside the Pakistani leadership. While President Ayubs responsibility for going in for the war is not denied, there is a general understanding here that the reported Ayub-Bhutto tension is a major upshot of the war which may turn out to be the decisive pointer to the future of Indo-Pak relations. Mr Bhutto with his pro-Peking bellicosity is believed to have the support of a good section of the Army leadership: though Mr Bhuttos political prestige may not have been enhanced by the fiasco of the much-proclaimed Chinese support in the war against India, the more truculent among the Generals have felt humiliated that the Cease Fire has come as an obstacle to their throwing Indian troops out of Pakistani soil. On the other hand, President Ayub according to this theory, has gone in for the Cease Fire precisely to prevent the Generals getting too powerful through the continuation of war while the public morale might have been embittered by his own failure to win Kashmir. The defiance of the Security Council Resolution appears to be the impact of the pro-Bhutto Generals veto; both the factions, at the same time, are still hesitating to take the responsibility of going in full steam for a regular war with India. The fact of the Indian Armys presence on the Pakistani soil is for them a humiliating irritant, while the failure to trounce the Indian Armywhich they might have complacently hoped to achieveis acting as a deterrent against the resumption of full-scale war. By this appraisal there seems to be a tug of war going on inside Pakistan between the Washington lobby and the Peking lobby, a tussle which has been accentuated as a result of the war. President Ayub, who has permitted himself the luxury of Mr Chou En-lais friendship as a lever for pressurising the US never abandoned his links with Washington, he himself being the architect of the US-Pak military alliance in the Dulles days. In contrast to this, Mr Bhotto has staked his whole political career on a determined entente with China in common belligerence against India. Whether this theory stems from wishful thinking or is a true indicator of events only the developments unfolding in the next few weeks will prove. The Sino-Pak axis plans against India were believed to have been given the finishing touch when Mr Chen Yi met Mr Bhutto in Karachi after the Pak offensive had been mounted in the Chhamb sector. According to this blueprint, the Indian Army was expected to march into East Pakistan, finding it an easy target. Synchronising with this, Peking hoped to engineer a coup in Bhutan with the help of the disgruntled Dorji clique whose leader, the ousted Premier Lhendup Dorji, now in London, is believed to be in close touch with both Peking and the Whitehall. This projected coup was scheduled to give birth to a Revolutionary Council which would send out an appeal for help to friendly powers in their struggle against the Indian Army which by treaty is to come to the support of the King. Thereupon the Pak troops would try to push towards Bhutan through the narrow 60-mile gap of Indian territory that keeps Bhutan and East Pakistan apart, while the Chinese troops could march down from Bhutan. This way Assam and NEFA could have been sliced off from the rest of India, a geopolitical dream which Peking has long nurtured. Unfortunately for Mr Bhutto and his comrades in Peking, little Lal Bahadur Shastri did not oblige them by walking into their trap and Peking in the hurry had to cook up the complaint about the unused installations beyond Nathu La and of the missing yaks and the sheep. This was indeed poor substitute for the grand design that banked on involving the Indian Army in a war with China via Bhutan and East Pakistan using Pakistan Army as a baffle wall against any possible Seventh Fleet bombing. It was but natural that the fiasco of this meticulously worked-out plan led Peking into a state of frustrated rage whose spit-over could be seen in the famous double-ultimatum and the note of condemnation at the bleating of the eight hundred sheep that turned up at the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi. Perhaps a sense of humour is a revisionist sin. (Mainstream, October 2, 1965) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said trade negotiations with China were progressing and a final agreement "will probably happen," adding that his call for tariffs to remain on Chinese imported goods for some time did not mean talks were in trouble. Trump, in a television interview aired on Friday, also said he expected to keep a 25 percent tariff on European light trucks amid separate ongoing trade talks with the European Union, but that companies could avoid it by building factories in the United States. The Trump administration is engaged in ongoing trade talks with both the European Union and China as part of the Republican president's "America First" agenda. Top U.S. officials are headed to Beijing in coming days, with a summit possible between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to seal any final deal. "The European Union ... frankly, treats us as badly as China," Trump told Fox Business Network. "Our deal is coming along very well. We'll see what happens," Trump said regarding China. "I think the deal will probably happen. I think they need it very badly." Asked about his remarks earlier this week about U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods staying in place for a period of time and whether that meant there was a snag in the negotiations, Trump said, "No, not at all." Trump then segued to the European auto sector, including trucks. "We get a 25 percent tariff on that segment - that's our best segment by far. And yes, we will absolutely be able to keep it - not only keep it going, I really think we have tremendous potential," he told the network in the interview, which was taped on Thursday. "Ill tell you what the end game is. Theyll build their plants in the United States and they have no tariffs," Trump added. Then, asked if he would agree to zero tariffs, he said: "I would do it for certain products, but I wouldnt do it for cars." Story continues Shares of German automaker Daimler jumped briefly after the interview. The United States in July agreed not to hit EU car imports with extra tariffs while the Washington and Brussels sought to improve economic ties, but the U.S. ambassador to the EU on Thursday said Europe was falling short in trade talks. Additionally, the U.S. Commerce Department has given the White House a report regarding the legal basis to impose steep tariffs on cars on national security grounds. Asked if autos and auto parts posed a security risk, Trump said: "well, no." "What poses a national security risk is our balance sheet. We have to have -- we need a strong balance sheet. Otherwise you dont have national security," Trump added. "Were straightening it out." Separately, Trump also told Fox that if U.S. lawmakers do not pass his new deal to supersede the North American Free Trade Agreement trade agreement with Mexico and Canada, he might "go pre-NAFTA" but gave no other details. The leaders of the three countries last year reached a deal to replace NAFTA with the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. But it must be approved by the U.S. Congress, which is split between Trump's fellow Republicans, who control the Senate, and Democrats, who hold the majority in the House of Representatives and have been cool to the new pact. (Reporting by Susan Heavey; Editing by Hugh Lawson and Chizu Nomiyama) Washington (AFP) - President Donald Trump hailed the end of the Islamic State group's "caliphate" Saturday, vowing that the United States would remain "vigilant" against the diehard jihadists. The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces' victory in the remote riverside village of Baghouz, where IS made its last stand, capped a six-month operation against the final remnants of IS-controlled territory that once stretched across a vast swathe of Iraq and Syria, with seven million people in its sway. "We will remain vigilant... until it is finally defeated wherever it operates," Trump said of IS in a statement. "The United States will defend American interests whenever and wherever necessary. We will continue to work with our partners and allies to totally crush radical Islamic terrorists." Trump also had a warning for youths who can easily be swayed. "To all of the young people on the internet believing in ISIS's Propaganda, you will be dead if you join. Think instead about having a great life," he said, using an alternative acronym for the jihadist movement. Acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan welcomed the "critical milestone," but warned that "our work is far from complete." "We will continue our work with the global coalition to deny ISIS safe haven anywhere in the world," he said. "We remain committed to ISIS's enduring defeat and we are confident that we will prevail." Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford, Jr added that "the US military remains committed to working closely with our Coalition and regional partners to ensure the lasting defeat of ISIS." The jihadists retain a presence in eastern Syria's vast Badia desert and various other hideouts from which they could wage the kind of deadly guerrilla insurgency that accompanied the rise of IS. While the geographic caliphate has been dismantled, analysts warn remnants of the group can melt back in to the population while seeking to convert others to their ideology. By Karen Freifeld and Nathan Layne WASHINGTON (Reuters) - When members of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team investigating Russia's role in the 2016 U.S. election have arrived for work each day, they have placed their mobile phones in a locker outside of their office suite before entering. Operating in secrecy in a nondescript glass-and-concrete office, the team of prosecutors and investigators since May 2017 has unearthed secrets that have led to bombshell charges against several of President Donald Trump's aides, including his former national security adviser, campaign chairman and personal lawyer, who have pleaded guilty or been convicted by a jury. To protect those secrets from prying ears, the whole of the office suite in southwest Washington has been designated a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF), U.S. spy speak for an area that has restrictions to ensure secret information stays secure. One common restriction in SCIFs is to keep out smartphones and other electronic devices, which can be turned into covert listening devices or spy cameras. Visitors also have been required to turn these over before entering. The restrictions, while not surprising given the team was investigating whether a hostile foreign power tried to help Trump win the 2016 election and whether his campaign conspired in the effort, have not been previously reported. Mueller on Friday sent his report on his investigation to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both Democratic and Republican parties for the document's public release. Accounts of witnesses interviewed by the special counsel's team, their lawyers and others familiar with the investigation reveal the lengths to which Mueller, a former FBI director, has gone to ensure his high-profile probe safeguarded its secrets. In a city known for its leaks, Mueller has pulled off a rare feat. He has kept a tight lid on both his office and the evidence he was amassing in his highly sensitive investigation that has cast a cloud over Trump's presidency. And he did it even as Trump relentlessly criticized him, calling the probe a "witch hunt" and the special counsel's team "thugs." Story continues THE ADVISER AND THE DODGE CHARGER When former Trump campaign adviser Michael Caputo agreed to an interview with Mueller in May 2018, he was told he would be picked up at the hotel where he was staying in Washington. On the lookout for a black government SUV, Caputo and his lawyer were surprised when an FBI agent drove up in his personal car, a white Dodge Charger. "Then he drove us 15 blocks to their location and we went in through the garage so that nobody would see," Caputo said in an interview. Caputo was questioned about former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, Manafort's aide Rick Gates and longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone. When the interview was over, Mueller's team told him they would take him back to his hotel. Caputo said Mueller's team was not happy with what he said next. "I said I'm meeting a TV crew downstairs so I won't need a ride," Caputo said. "They weren't upset that I was talking to the media, they were disturbed that I was doing it in (front of) the office." "They were concerned ... that would put their agents and attorneys at risk," Caputo said, adding that he agreed to meet the news crew at a different location nearby. Former Trump campaign adviser Sam Nunberg said an FBI agent picked him up at the train station to take him to the office. "You put your phone and any electronic devices and leave them in a compartment out front," Nunberg added. "It was a very plain office." Nunberg said he went into a conference room with three tables, and prosecutor Aaron Zelinsky, a member of Mueller's team, came in with three FBI agents, one female and two males. The office's location was not publicly revealed but was discovered by journalists. Still, it has not been widely publicized. Mueller's team has asked media outlets not to publish the exact location for security purposes. "We are working in a secure location in Southwest DC," Peter Carr, a spokesman for Mueller, has said. STAYING OUT OF THE NEWS "In a town where everybody and their mother is trying to get on the front page, Bob Mueller was always trying to stay out of the news," said Mark Corallo, a former Justice Department spokesman. "He wanted to be judged on actions, not press conferences." Corallo, who was briefly a spokesman for Trump's legal team, was interviewed by Mueller's team in February 2018. Corallo and other witnesses summoned for interviews by Mueller's team said they were picked up from their lawyers' offices and taken to a secure parking garage in the building in southwest Washington. The team's office suite was anonymous with no plaque on the door to identify its occupants, said Washington lawyer A. Joseph Jay, who represented a witness he declined to identify. More than once, Jay recalled, members of Mueller's team expressed their commitment to confidentiality. "They made it clear on a number of occasions, 'We don't leak. You don't have to worry about that with us.'" "By keeping to their code of silence, they were professionals," Jay said. "They weren't reacting to the spin. They were doing their jobs. They spoke through a number of indictments. They spoke through a number of sentencing memos." Mueller has remained silent throughout the investigation and his office has issued only one statement. In that statement, issued this past January, spokesman Carr labelled as "not accurate" a BuzzFeed News account describing evidence collected by the special counsel that allegedly showed that Trump had directed his former lawyer Michael Cohen to lie to Congress about a Moscow real estate deal. BuzzFeed has stood by its story. Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani, himself a former federal prosecutor, also remarked on Mueller staying out of sight. "Whenever we talk to them, they say, 'We'll take it to Bob.' He's like the Wizard of Oz," Giuliani said. Giuliani said although he was suspicious of leaks to the news media, he acknowledged he knew of none for sure from the special counsel's team and that nothing he told Mueller's office was leaked. "Mueller doesn't talk to us. I don't know why he'd talk to the press," the former New York mayor added. Joseph Campbell, a former assistant director of the FBI's Criminal Investigative Division who worked at the agency when Mueller headed it, said the special counsel knows how to handle sensitive investigations and ignores the attacks on him. "He went through 12 years starting with 9/11 of extremely critical and sensitive investigations around the world," said Campbell, referring to the 2001 attacks on the United States. "This is right in his wheelhouse." "He is not affected by external criticism or speculation," Campbell added. Robert Litt, former general counsel for the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, said any leaks about the investigation appeared to have come from witnesses or their lawyers. "There's nothing he can do about that," Litt said, referring to Mueller. Litt said Mueller, the 74-year-old former U.S. Marine Corps officer and architect of the modern FBI, probably "cares little about the public perception of him." "He cares," Litt said, "about doing the job right." (Reporting by Karen Freifeld and Nathan Layne; Additional reporting by Steve Holland; Editing by Will Dunham and Ross Colvin) By Tracy Rucinski and David Shepardson CHICAGO/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Teams from the three U.S. airlines that own 737 MAX jets headed to Boeing Co's factory in Renton, Washington, to review a software upgrade on Saturday, as U.S. regulators prepared to receive and review the fixes in coming weeks. The factory visits indicated Boeing may be near completing a software patch for its newest 737 following a Lion Air crash that killed 189 people in Indonesia last October. This month, a second deadly crash involving an Ethiopian Airlines MAX in Addis Ababa triggered the fleet's worldwide grounding. Timing for when passenger flights will resume remained uncertain. Boeing has come under global scrutiny along with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the agency that must approve the software fix and new training. Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines Co, the world's largest operator of the MAX, began parking its fleet at a facility in Victorville, California, at the southwestern edge of the Mojave Desert, to wait out the global grounding. Southwest has 34 of the jets; United Airlines has 14 and American Airlines has 24. Acting administrator Dan Elwell told lawmakers last week that the FAA expected Boeing would complete its upgrade as early as March 25, kicking off the approval process. An FAA spokesman said Saturday that the agency expects to receive the software fix early next week. A U.S. official briefed on the matter Saturday said the FAA has not yet signed off on the upgrade and training but the goal is to review them in coming weeks and approve them by April. It remained unclear whether the software upgrade, called "design changes" by the FAA, will resolve concerns stemming from the ongoing investigation into the March 10 Ethiopian Airlines crash, which killed all 157 on board. The U.S. official said planned changes included 15 minutes of training to help pilots deactivate the anti-stall system known as MCAS in the event of faulty sensor data or other issues. It also included some self-guided instruction, the official added. Story continues The Allied Pilots Association (APA), which represents American Airlines pilots, said it has been in talks with Boeing, the FAA and airlines to get the airplanes flying again as soon as possible with an acceptable level of safety. "Right now we're in wait-and-see mode to see what Boeing comes up with," said Captain Jason Goldberg, spokesman for the APA, part of a delegation of airline safety experts and pilots set to test the upgrade. "We're hopeful, but at the same time the process can't be rushed." Boeing said on Saturday it was continuing to schedule meetings with all 737 MAX operators. Southwest and United said they would also review documentation and training associated with Boeing's updates on Saturday. (Reporting by Tracy Rucinski and David Shepardson; additional writing by Susan Heavey; editing by Tom Brown and David Gregorio) By William Schomberg LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's economy has struggled beneath the weight of Brexit uncertainty for nearly three years, but many business leaders would probably be relieved just to have more of the same for the next few months. The risk of a damaging no-deal exit by the world's fifth-biggest economy from the European Union on March 29 has been averted by the reprieve granted to Prime Minister Theresa May by other EU leaders on Thursday. But the possibility could return as soon as April 12. Or the delay could stretch into May or beyond, depending on the prime minister's ability to break the Brexit impasse in parliament. Employers took some comfort from the postponement, even if it did little to settle the wide range of Brexit outcomes that has led to many of them putting their expansion plans on hold. "Businesses will accept a short extension because its a better alternative to no deal," Seamus Nevin, chief economist at Make UK, an engineering trade group, said. "But we really need to make decisions soon. Prolonged uncertainty just means the investment decline of recent months will continue and companies will be forced to decide whether to move production elsewhere." Carmakers have reduced expansion plans in Britain and many financial firms have set up operations in other EU countries. Overall business investment fell throughout 2018, the longest such run since the global financial crisis, and another fall is expected in 2019, threatening to worsen the country's weak productivity growth. Britain's economy lost momentum after the 2016 referendum decision to leave the EU. The slowdown deepened last year as the Brexit deadline approached, with no guarantee of a transition to smooth the shock, but also reflecting the weakening of the world economy. While Britain would bear the brunt of a no-deal Brexit hit, U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has said it is a risk for the slowing U.S. economy, along with Washington's trade war with China. Story continues The shock would also be felt in Europe where Britain's closest trading partners are struggling. "It would be a material shock for the EU at a difficult time," Brian Coulton, chief economist at ratings agency Fitch Ratings, said. "Among the things that could tip the euro zone into a recession, it might be a candidate." "NATIONAL EMERGENCY" Even the strongest Brexit supporters say a no-deal divorce would deliver a shock. But they believe the economy would adjust and flourish once it is free of the constraints of EU rules and can strike its own trade deals around the world. Gerard Lyons, a pro-Brexit economist, said weak business investment was a long-standing British problem, not just a Brexit one, and he pointed to strong jobs growth and tax revenues as a sign of underlying resilience in the economy. While his preferred option was for Britain to leave EU with a transition and then hammer out a trade deal, he said a no-deal Brexit would not be a disaster because progress has been made to prepare Britain's finance industry, ports and logistics. "Its like a kick in the groin. It depends how hard the other side wants to kick you, and how well you maneuver yourself," Lyons said. The Bank of England said on Thursday that about 80 percent of almost 300 companies it surveyed felt they were as ready as they could be for a no-deal, no-transition Brexit, up from 50 percent in January. The BoE has said a worst-case no-deal Brexit scenario -- in which Britain loses the confidence of global investors and chaos hits transport and ports -- could mean that the economy is 5 percent smaller in three years' time than if the country stayed in the EU. A more managed no-deal Brexit could reduce the hit to about 2.5 percent, still a material hit at a time when the economy is struggling to grow by more than 1.5 percent a year. Most economists say the higher the barriers for British firms to do business in the EU, the bigger the drag will be on economic growth stretching out into the decades ahead. Any gains from free trade deals with countries such as China or the United States would be "relatively modest", Britain's independent budget forecasters have said. It is small wonder therefore that many employers are hoping for a change of the Brexit plan, even if it means yet more sapping uncertainty. "Our country is facing a national emergency," the Confederation of British Industry, a major employers group, and the Trades Union Congress umbrella group said on Thursday in a rare joint letter to May, urging her to avoid a no-deal Brexit. "The shock to our economy would be felt by generations to come." (Writing by William Schomberg; Editing by Toby Chopra) Tijuana (Mexico) (AFP) - US Border Patrol agents on Thursday fired tear gas at Central American migrants attempting to cross the border from the Mexican city of Tijuana, AFP journalists saw. A group of migrants, including children, used an improvised rope to try to scale fencing installed on the beach between Tijuana and San Diego, California -- but were forced back with tear gas, which agents had not deployed since January 1. An AFP journalist witnessed only one migrant cross the border, where he was immediately detained. It marked the third time in a week that a group of Central Americans had tried to cross the border to ask for asylum on the grounds their lives were threatened by violence at home. On the first occasion, a week ago, around 50 people made it across, with about 10 more crossing on Tuesday. All were detained by authorities. "Someone brought them here, they train them because they know that upon crossing they must ask for asylum and that way they won't be deported and they have to be processed according to US laws," said one Tijuana policeman, who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak. Last November, hundreds of Central Americans that arrived from Honduras as part of a large caravan tried to cross en masse -- but only a few succeeded as the crowd was met with tear gas. In recent months, thousands of Central Americans have arrived in Mexico in several caravans in the hope of finding a better life in the United States. US President Donald Trump has branded such migrants a threat to national security, demanding billions of dollars from Congress to build a wall on the southern US border. Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2019 > Dissecting the Silence: Mahatma Gandhi and Congress on Bhagat Singhs (...) by Saurav Kumar Rai There are several myths pertaining to modern Indian history and Indias struggle for independence. While some of these myths were created by the colonial state itself to weaken the ongoing independence movement, some of them were constructed out of vested political interests in post-independence India. One such powerful myth is regarding Mahatma Gandhis alleged silence on the martyrdom of Bhagat Singh and his comrades. It should be noted that Bhagat Singh and two of his associates, Shivaram Rajguru and Sukhdev Thapar, were sentenced to death by the colonial state in the Lahore conspiracy case and were hanged on March 23, 1931. Now, it is often alleged that Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress could possibly avert this execution. At the same time the silence of prominent Congress leaders following the death of Bhagat Singh is often cited as a glaring example of the Congress insecurity towards the soaring popularity of Bhagat Singh and his associates. Thus, a binary of Mahatma Gandhi/Congress vs. Bhagat Singh/Revolutionaries has been created over a period of time the resonance of which can often be heard in various discussions and debates in the public sphere. However, careful dissection of this alleged silence gives some interesting insight on the whole issue. It should be remembered that the execution of Bhagat Singh and his comrades took place around the same period when the Gandhi-Irwin settlement was in force. Following the conversations that took place between the Viceroy, Lord Irwin, and Mahatma Gandhi, the Congress agreed to temporarily suspend the ongoing Civil Disobedience Movement and to participate in the Second Round Table Conference. Subsequent to this, instructions were issued for the guidance of all the Congressmen carrying on propaganda so that there may be no complaint of breach of understanding arrived at between the Congress and the government. Now, one such instruction stated: If any lawful orders are passed, right or wrong, they should not be disobeyed.1 Further, During the period of truce [our] speeches should not be an attack on Government. There is now no necessity to show past misdeeds of misgovernment.2 Moreover, it was instructed that we should not make any approving references to acts of violence; congratulation of bravery and self-sacrifice on the part of persons committing acts of violence are unnecessary and misleading, except when made by persons pledged to non-violence in thought and deed as Gandhiji.3 These instructions explain the unusual silence of the prominent Congress leaders over the execution of Bhagat Singh which was eventually a lawful order passed by the competent judicial authority. At the same time, bound by the instructions to prevent any breach of under-standing, they could not openly criticise the government for its unforeseen haste in this matter nor could they celebrate the heroics of Bhagat Singh. Nonetheless, it was not that nobody spoke against this brutality of the government. In fact, the very person, Mahatma Gandhi, who is charged of being insecure of Bhagat Singhs popularity and of being guilty of remaining silent in the whole matter, spoke on more than one occasion against the entire logic of hanging Bhagat Singh and his associates. Mahatma Gandhi, on March 23, 1931, made a final appeal to the Viceroy in the interest of peace to commute the sentence of Bhagat Singh and two others. He emphatically argued that popular opinion rightly or wrongly demands commutation; when there is no principle at stake, it is often a duty to respect it.4 Subsequently, Mahatma Gandhi himself penned a moving yet powerful resolution on Bhagat Singh and his comrades adopted by the Indian National Congress on March 29, 1931. The resolution stated as follows: This Congress, while dissociating itself from and disapproving of political violence in any shape or form, places on record its admiration of the bravery and sacrifice of the late Sardar Bhagat Singh and his comrades, Syts. Sukhdev and Rajguru, and mourns with the bereaved families the loss of these lives. The Congress is of opinion that this triple execution is an act of wanton vengeance and is a deliberate flouting of the unanimous demand of the nation for commutation. This Congress is further of opinion that Government have lost the golden opportunity of promoting goodwill between the two nations, admittedly held to be essential at this juncture, and of winning over to the method of peace the party which, being driven to despair, resorts to political violence.5 Thus, contrary to popular myth of unforeseen silence, Mahatma Gandhi did admire the bravery and sacrifice of revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh. The difference between them was basically over the use of violence as a means to attain independence. In fact, people today often fail to fathom the depth of the virtues which drove our leaders to struggle for independence. Political opposition and differences of opinions nowhere stripped them of the warmth which they shared among each other at the personal level. Hence, binaries such as Gandhi vs Bhagat Singh, Gandhi vs Subhas Chandra Bose, Nehru vs Patel, etc. hardly do justice to the cause for which these towering leaders devoted their lives. Endnotes 1. See Circular for Congress Workers in The Selected Works of C. Rajagopalachari, Vol. V, Orient BlackSwan, New Delhi, 2019, p. 7. 2. Ibid., p. 7. 3. Ibid., p. 8. 4. Gandhis Letter to the Viceroy regarding the sentence of death to Bhagat Singh, 23 March 1931 (https://www.mkgandhi.org/faq/q26.htm, accessed on 18.02.2019). 5. See Resolution on Bhagat Singh and Comrades, 29.03.1931 in The Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi, Vol. XLV, Publications Division, New Delhi, 1971, p. 363. Saurav Kumar Rai is a Senior Research Assistant, Nehru Memorial Museum and Library, New Delhi. Members of the 2018-2019 Davis High School wind ensemble pose for this formal portrait on the school's outside steps. Director Brian Beck's group was one of just three bands from a six-state area that was selected to perform at the All-Northwest Conference that was held on Feb. 15 at Portland, Oregon. The annual South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival in Austin, Texas attracts music fans from all over the United States. The Palestinian Electro Arabic Dabke band 47Soul performed this year and they chanted slogans against the Israeli occupation and for the brotherhood of humanity - to cheering crowds. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter In some respects, the four band members personify the contemporary Diaspora Palestinian experience. Darbuka player Tareq Abu Kwaik (El Far3i) and electric guitarist Hamza Arnaout (al-Jehaz) were born in Amman, Jordan, to families from the West Bank; keyboardist Ramzy Suleiman (Z for the People) was born in Washington and moved to Ramallah as an adult; and percussionist Walaa Sbeit was born and raised in Haifa as an artist and social activist. 47SOUL (Photo: Screenshot) They work together in London mixing music from the West Bank, Africa and the West and write universal messages in Arabic and English, occasionally alluding to the plight of the Palestinians living under Israel control. In Austin, the band found a receptive audience for their messages of political protest. When MC Sbeit shouted This is a song against the occupation, against the oppression, against apartheid, this is a freedom song for Palestine, the crowd cheered and grasped the reference without Israel being explicitly referred to. Some members of the audience waved Palestinian flags or wore the traditional Palestinian headscarf, while bearded hipsters, who in the Middle East would appear to be devout Muslims, applauded the music. If anyone didnt failed to grasp the messages being shouted from the stage, they surely took notice of the music lyrics, especially from the bands second album Balfron Promise. In their song Moving Around they sing, My people were moved, other people were moved, soon we will all move, Yalla Yalla move. In the song Locked Up Shop, they warn Even if you subjugate me, you will never get away from it, even if you hide me. 47SOUL (Screenshot) Israel is never mentioned and hateful rhetoric is avoided, perhaps because they find a more liberal message more efficient. They not only engage in protest over the Palestinian plight but also against radical Islam in the Arab world, drawing inspiration from former South African president Nelson Mandela, former Egyptian president and Arab nationalist Gamal Abdel Nasser and Jamaican Reggae star Bob Marley. From Africa to Palestine, weeping and turning over in refugee camps All land is holy land, every nation is the chosen nation. 47Souls first performance was on Thursday, at the same time that rockets were being launched from Gaza into Israel and the IDF was bombing Hamas targets in response. But reports from the front were not present on stage where the band was trying to seamlessly combine messages of protest and hope. 47SOUL (Screenshot) Instead of the gun, they have chosen to wield the guitar; instead of hitting the police they prefer to hit the drum set and instead of burning tires they prefer to smoke a joint. In an interview Kwaik gave to the Egyptian website Cairo Scene, he even expressed reservations regarding the BDS movement which he supported in the past. "I had a BDS sticker on my guitar but then it was scratched and all that is left of it is the Palestinian flag, and it too is fading," said Kwaik, a son of parents from Jenin, who told how the assassination of his uncle shook his family who abandoned their secular lifestyle to became more religiously pious. "To a large extent it represents my thoughts on the situation in Palestine. For a long time, I supported BDS, but then I began to think that maybe this is not the best way to solve the Palestinian problem. It is a very important initiative, but recently I started to think that we did not conceive the Palestinian flag ourselves, the British did. And now, the flag on the sticker has faded and this symbolizes the changes in my world view," he explained. The Trump administration will soon disclose the deal of the century for peace in the Middle East and the presidents adviser (and son-in-law) Jared Kushner has already revealed some economic aspects of the initiative to the wealthy Arab Gulf states that are expected to fund the deal. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Most are pessimistic regarding the deals prospects for success, especially in the Arab world. The history of the Middle East conflict is littered with peace plans that failed to deliver. The present plan that Kushner is presenting as unique, offers the Palestinians even less than previous plans and will not end the conflict. And with that in mind, the time has come to discuss a one-state solution. (Photo: Lance Tramadol) But the success of a one-state solution has a number of obstacles, chiefly the opposition of most Israelis. In addition, there is an expansive web of vested interests among Palestinian Authority officials for a two-state solution and the Palestinian mainstream still insists on a national state based on the 1967 borders. These differences will continue for the foreseeable future. Trump and Netanyahu (Photo: AFP) Israeli Jews fear the demographic threat posed by a one-state solution to the conflict. The ghetto perception is still a decisive factor in Israeli public opinion perhaps stemming from the experiences of the Holocaust. On the other hand, the 1948 Nakba (catastrophe) casts a dense and painful shadow over the Palestinian consciousness and vision. Palestinians deal with issues of identity and symbolism much more than the surrounding populations. The paradox is that the Nakba and the Shoah are separated by only a few years. Kushner meeting Abbas (Photo: Gettyimages) A one-state solution has never been officially proposed as a permanent and fair solution to the conflict. On Israels part, it involved the rejection of Palestinian national identity and the implication has always been one of racism and discriminatory. On the part of the Palestinians, a one-state solution was initially part of a plan to redeem Palestine from the river to the sea and defeat the Zionist project, but has since returned to center stage with the declining likelihood of a two-state solution ever being implemented. The context was always provocative and threatening and rode on the demographic fears of Israelis. Nakba march in West Bank But now, in the context of the internal Palestinian disagreement over reviving and redefining the national Palestinian project, perhaps the time is ripe to unveil for the first time the one-state proposal in a different context. The principles of both sides pose a major obstacle to this question, but it must be examined for the sake of the public narrative. Palestinian nationalism has failed. It has failed to liberate any land as well as in achieving even its minimum goals. Israel, on the other hand, has come to the realization that they cannot erase Palestinian national identity and remove them from the land of their ancestors. So how can a one-state come about? I will present four principles that are crucial for the success of the proposal. Islamic Nakba event (Photo: Mohammad Shinawi) First, such a resolution will require a historic reconciliation between the two sides and mutual recognition of the rights of both sides to historic Palestine. This will be very difficult for the Palestinians, who albeit recognize the historic connection of the Jews to the land, but do not acknowledge their right to establish a state there, certainly not a Jewish state and certainly not the Right of Return for Jews throughout the world. For the Jews, this means reexamining a central tenet of Zionism: A land without a people for a people without a land. A historic reconciliation will not be easy for descendants of the Holocaust or the Nakba, especially for the Palestinians who were not responsible for the Holocaust but suffered a Nakba with the founding of Israel. Second, a one-state solution is predicated upon the idea of equal rights for all citizens: one person, one vote. Rights and obligations will need to be enshrined in stone: freedom of religion, the freedom to work and choose where to live, freedom of movement and the right to health care and education all within the framework of a secular, democratic state. Zionist counterprotest to a Nakba day event (Photo: Motti Kimchi) Alongside that there will need to be national rights for both peoples and religious and cultural rights for all minority communities, two official languages, one capital city and a special administrator for the holy sites, consisting of representatives of the three major religions. Third, the Rights of Return is to be granted to all of the 13 million Palestinians and Jews in the world, even if they dont actually take advantage of this right. Fourth, a solution needs to be found to provide housing for all. In order to address natural growth and ease the overcrowding in the major population centers, new cities should be built in the Negev, for example, by joint teams of Israelis and Palestinians. A one-state solution may seem like a fantasy taken from a childrens film, but decades of futile peace initiatives and the inability to reach an agreement that satisfies both sides for an end to the century-old conflict, requires thinking outside of the box. Ureib al-Rantawi is a Jordanian political analyst and researcher of Palestinian descent. He is the founder and director of the Al-Quds Center for Political Studies in Amman. This article was originally published in the virtual magazine of al-Hura. The concise version is being published under the auspices of the "Horizon for Arab Media" co-authored by the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute and the Ilam Center in Nazareth. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene Monday in a fight over control of the nations oldest synagogue and its religious bells worth millions, leaving in place a ruling that the Rhode Island synagogue will remain the property of a New York congregation. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The Congregation Jeshuat Israel in Newport, Rhode Island, had asked a judge to declare that it owned the more than 250-year-old Touro Synagogue and a set of Colonial-era Torah bells, called rimonim. It had a plan to sell the bells to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston for $7.4 million as a way to shore up its finances. Touro Synagogue Manhattans Congregation Shearith Israel, the nations oldest Jewish congregation, became trustee of Touro after Jews left Newport in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It fought the plan to sell the bells. Congregation Jeshuat Israel has worshipped at Touro since the late 1800s, and the two sides have periodically fought since then over who controls it. Lou Solomon, a lawyer for Congregation Shearith Israel, struck a conciliatory tone, saying he looked forward to a return of harmonious relations between them and Touros congregation. Its a national treasure, its going to remain open for all Jews, Solomon said. But he added a caveat. Were going to go forward with or without them. It is my hope that there will not be any more hostile acts, he said. A trial judge awarded control of the property and the bells to the Newport group, but the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals went the other way, giving them to the group from Manhattan. Gary Naftalis, a lawyer for the Newport congregants, said they were disappointed. Our petition raised significant constitutional issues affecting the survival of Touro Synagogue and the rights of religious organizations in America, he said, adding that they hope the congregations right to continue to pray in the historic Touro Synagogue, as it has for over a century, will be respected. Solomon said the New York congregation plans to reach out to the one in Newport soon with an offer to meet and plan for ways to move forward together. We dont want to be the imperialists that are coming there and kicking people out. What matters is that the synagogue remain a house of worship for all Jews, open to all Jews, he said. Touro Synagogue was dedicated in 1763 and is a national historic site. The synagogue was visited by George Washington in 1790, and he later sent its congregants a letter declaring that the government of the United States gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance. It attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has officially inaugurated Gobekli Tepe, a site dating back to the 10th millennium BCE, in a bid to boost tourism to the region and raise awareness about its historical significance. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter In the presence of officials at a special ceremony last weekend, Erdogan called Turkey an open-air museum, according to the Ankara-based Anadolu Agency, and declared 2019 the Year of Gobekli Tepe in honor of the 12,000-year-old archaeological site. Pillar with the sculpture of a predatory animal Turkish officials hope the site will draw throngs of tourists and provide an economic boost to the country. Believed by some scholars to be the worlds oldest temple, Gobekli Tepe which means Potbelly Hill in Turkish and is located in the southeastern province of Sanlurfa predates Stonehenge by some 6,000 years. The complex features massive pillars, ancient trash pits and fertility figurines made out clay, as well as intricate sculptures depicting animals. The ruins were first unearthed in 1963 following a survey conducted by anthropologists from Istanbul University and the University of Chicago. However, it was not until 1994, when the late German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt examined the site in depth, that its significance began to come to light. Gobekli Tepe is an absolutely amazing site, said Dr. Robert M. Schoch, director of the Institute for the Study of the Origins of Civilization at Boston University. Certainly, it ranks among the top archaeological wonders of the world, and in my assessment is one of the most important archaeological discoveries perhaps the most important of modern times. According to Schoch, the site overturns the standard story which states that civilization first developed a mere 5,000 to 6,000 years ago, and demonstrates the hallmarks of civilization, such as monumental stone architecture that required well-organized social structures, symbolic notation and sophisticated knowledge underlying the orientation and erection of the structures. He added that Gobekli Tepe is making experts rethink the origins of civilization. It is now evident that civilization developed prior to the end of the last Ice Age. However, this early civilization suffered a mighty setback resulting from the severe climatic changes and accompanying havoc. It would take another 6,000 years for humanity to rebuild and regain the level of sophistication that we see at Gobekli Tepe. While many have referred to the temple as the worlds oldest place of worship, Dr. Ted Banning, a professor of anthropology at the University of Toronto, disputes the claim and believes the ancient structures found there might have simply been houses for people rather than gods. Clearly, the Turkish government has taken the view that the temples claim is good for tourism, said Banning, who has conducted research at the site. There is no doubt that that has had great resonance with the public, as dozens of websites with rather outlandish claims about the site attest, he went on. Really, the only aspects of the site that lead people to think these are temples are that, one, the buildings are quite big; two, some of the pillars are quite massive; and three, there is art on many of the pillars. Banning notes that a significant amount of rubbish deposits from food processing and the making of stone tools was discovered at Gobekli Tepe, things archaeologists routinely find at the sites of Neolithic settlements. I think the site demonstrates that the early Neolithic people there (and probably at other nearby sites, such as Karahan Tepe) already had a higher degree of social complexity than archaeologists had suspected, he explained. Despite disagreeing on the area being a temple, he believed the ancient culture there had rich ideology and complex social structure and invested a lot of effort in building monumental houses. Despite ongoing disputes over its original purpose, many local and international tour agencies are including the site in their programming ahead of what is expected to be a spike in visitors. One of the challenges these agencies face is its proximity to Syria and conflict zones. A pillar with what are believed to be reliefs of are believed to be a bull, fox, and crane We cannot say that millions visit this site each year visitor numbers have been relatively modest, said Nicholas Kropacek, the marketing director for the Eastern Turkey Tours travel agency. This has been a function of the fact that the region of Turkey in which Gobekli Tepe is located shares a border with Syria. I should point out that the proximity to the border with Syria has not affected the safety of the site or of the principal city here, Sanlurfa. The area around Sanliurfa has been safe throughout the period of unrest in Syria. Kropacek nevertheless underlined that his agency had witnessed a big increase in inquiries about the site and the region in general, and has already taken hundreds of tourists to see the ruins. Gobekli Tepe is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a key component of the governments strategy to promote tourism, he noted. While traditional beach tourism remains the mainstay of tourism in Turkey, cultural and historical tourism is growing, he continued. Gobekli Tepe is probably the most important archaeological site currently being excavated anywhere in the World. Part of its great appeal is the fact that it is an ongoing excavation and will be ongoing for many years to come. Each excavating season yields more knowledge and reveals more of this extraordinary site. Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2019 > Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh: Concept and Vision of Freedom by Mansavi Patyar India achieved complete emancipation from British rule after a lot of hassle. This struggle for independence was flagged by numerous freedom fighters who not only sacrificed their personal happiness but their precious lives too. They dedicated themselves without even giving a single thought to their personal well-being. Such great leaders not only ensured our freedom but also inspired the youth of the present time. The names of some of such famous leaders are Subhas Chandra Bose, Bipin Chandra Pal, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Ram Prasad Bismil, Jayaprakash Narayan, Chandra Shekhar Azad, Baba Gurdit Singh, Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Jawaharlal Nehru. The list does not end here and all of them are recognised as the brave soldiers of India. All these leaders are worth saluting while men-tioning them, but two iconic leaders whose legacy as legendary figures still continue and who are immensely popular even after their death till date are: Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was the pre-eminent leader of the Indian freedom movement. He opted for the non-violent path of achieving independence as he was a believer of truth and ahimsa. He launched many movements such as the Civil Disobedience Movement, Quit India Movement, Satyagraha, Swadeshi and several other initiatives to drive out the British. All movements had a single motive: to get freedom. Gandhi presented all his demands before the British Government so as to achieve independence. Not only in India but also abroad he came out as a strong force evoking respect and prestige for India and Indians. Apart from this, he educated the masses so that they know their civil rights. Gandhi was 24 when he arrived in South Africa to work as a legal representative for the Muslim Indian traders based in the city of Pretoria. He first employed non-violent civil disobedience as an expatriate lawyer in South Africa in the resident Indian communitys struggle for civil rights. In South Africa, Gandhi faced discrimination based on colour. He was even thrown off a train at Pietermaritzburg after refusing to move from the First Class but Gandhi was not a man to lose. The effect of it all was that he protested, complained. Finally he was allowed on First Class the very next day. But partiality did not end here and he was beaten by a driver for refusing to move to make room for a European passenger. He suffered other hardships on the journey as well, including being barred from several hotels for the sheer reason of not belonging to the white community. In another incident, the Magistrate of a Durban court ordered Gandhi to remove his turban, with which he strongly disagreed and remained as firm as a rock. These events were a turning- point in Gandhis life, shaped his social activism and awakened him to social injustice. After witnessing racism, prejudice and injustice against Indians in South Africa, Gandhi began to question his place in society and his peoples standing in the British Empire. He decided to extend his original period of stay in South Africa to assist Indians in opposing a Bill to deny them their right to vote. In regard to this Bill Gandhi sent out a memorandum to Joseph Chamberlain, the British Colonial Secretary, asking him to reconsider his position on this Bill. Though he was unable to halt the Bills passage, his campaign proved to be a victory for drawing attention to the grievances of Indians in South Africa which Indians either ignored or for which they felt helpless. He helped to found the Natal Indian Congress in 1894 and through this organisation, he moulded the Indian community of South Africa into a unified political force. In 1906, the Transvaal Government promu-lgated a new Act compelling the colonys of Indian population to go for registration. At a mass protest meeting held in Johannesburg on September 11 that year, Gandhi adopted his still evolving methodology of Satyagraha (non-violent protest) for the first time. He urged the Indians to defy the new law and to suffer punishments for doing so. The community favoured this plan in full measure. In the ensuing seven-year struggle, thousands of Indians were jailed, flogged, or shot at for striking, refusing to register, for burning their registration cards or engaging in other forms of non-violent resistance. The government successfully repressed the Indian protesters, but the public outcry over the harsh treatment of peaceful Indian protesters by the South African Govern-ment forced the South African leader, Jan Christiaan Smuts, himself a philosopher, to negotiate a compromise with Gandhi. Gandhis ideas took shape, and the concept of Satyagraha matured during this struggle. He spent 21 years in South Africa, where he developed his political views, ethics and leadership skills which he later applied in India to attain independence. After his return to India in 1915, he set about organising peasants, farmers, and urban labourers to protest against excessive land-tax and discrimination. Ramchandra Guha argues that when he returned to India in 1914, Gandhi was proficient at public speaking, fund-raising, negotiations, media relations, and self-promotion. In 1915, when Gandhi returned to India perma-nently, he brought with him an international reputation of a leading Indian nationalist, theorist and organiser and later joined the Indian National Congress. Gopal Krishna Gokhale introduced Gandhi to the Indian political scenario and asked him to tour India to know the ground realities of the country. Gandhi took Gokhales liberal approach based on British Whiggish traditions and transformed it to make it look wholly Indian. During the latter part of World War I, Gandhi agreed to recruit Indians for the war. Initially many Indians rejected the idea to join the war but when Gandhi convinced them they agreed to do so. Perhaps the motive was to walk shoulder to shoulder with the British Government so that the government also understands their rights and demands for achieving independence and in this he eventually succeeded. Gandhis first major achievement came in 1918 when he decided to launch the Champaran satyagraha and Kheda satyagraha in Bihar and Gujarat respectively. In Champaran, the peasantry was forced to grow Indigo. This system was termed as the Tinkathia system. Unhappy with this, the peasantry appealed to Gandhi at his ashram in Ahmedabad. Pursuing a strategy of non-violent protest, Gandhi took the administration by surprise and won concessions from the autho-rities. During the Khilafat movement, he attracted a strong base of Muslim support with local chapters in all Muslim centres in India. Gandhi became Indias first national leader with a multicultural base. Along with this, Gandhi facilitated his rise to power within the Congress, which had previously been unable to reach out to Muslims. Gandhi took over the leadership of the Congress in 1920. With the Congress now fully behind him Gandhi had the base to carry out non-cooperation, non-violence and peaceful resis-tance as his weapons in the struggle against the British Raj. Nationwide campaigns were launched by him for erasing poverty which he described as a stain on the fabric of society. Against all odds, he also favoured equality and expanded womens rights, building religious and ethnic amity, ending untouchability, but, above, all he fought for achieving Swaraj or self-rule. Gandhi opted the Swadeshi policythe boycott of foreign-made goods, especially British goodswith a view that India had to become self-reliant. Boycott of foreign goods was also a way to show the strong non-dependence side of the Indians. In addition to boycotting British products, Gandhi urged the people to boycott the British educational institutions and law courts, to resign from government employment, and to forsake British titles and honours. All strata of Indian society supported Gandhis Non-cooperation Movement and showed great interest for his way of achieving freedom which was popularly known as Gandhism. Yet, just as the movement reached its apex, it ended abruptly as a result of a violent clash in the town of Chauri-Chaura. Gandhi pushed through a resolution at the Calcutta Congress in December 1928 calling on the British Government to grant freedom to India to which the government did not agree. On January 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress declared the independence of India. The British did not recognise that and more negotiations ensued, with the Congress taking a role in provincial governments in the late 1930s. Gandhi and the Congress withdrew their assistance to British rule when the Viceroy declared war on Germany in September 1939 without consulting anyone. Tensions escalated until Gandhi demanded immediate independence in 1942. In the wake of such a declaration the British Government responded by imprisoning him and tens of thousands of Congress leaders at that point. Earlier Gandhi famously led Indians in challenging the British-imposed salt tax with a 400 km Dandi Salt March in 1930. It was there that he along with other Indians made salt. Later in 1942 Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement so as to live freely. For being so adamant on his demands, he was imprisoned on many occasions in both South Africa and India. Finally in August 1947, India got freedom from British rule, but the British Indian Empire was partitioned into two dominions, a Hindu-majority India and a Muslim-majority Pakistan. In the following months, he undertook several fasts unto death to promote religious harmony. The last of these, undertaken on January 12, 1948 when he was 78, also had the indirect goal of pressuring India to pay out some cash assets owed to Pakistan. Not all people favoured him and some Indians thought Gandhi was too accommodating. Among them was Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist, who assassinated Gandhi on January 30, 1948 by firing three bullets into his chest at point-blank range. Gandhi attempted to practise non-violence and truth in all situations, and preached the same among the people. He was a believer of simple living and high thinking. He spent his entire life in a self-sufficient residential community and wore the traditional Indian dhoti and shawl, woven with hand-spun yarn on a charkha. He used to eat simple vegetarian food, and also undertook long fasts as a means of both self-purification and social protest. Bhagat Singh is considered as one of the most influential revolutionaries of the Indian indepen-dence movement. He was born in Punjab into a Sikh family which had been active in the Indian independence movement against the British Raj. As a teenager Singh studied European revolutionary movements and was attracted to anarchist and Marxist ideologies. He was influenced by a number of incidents during his childhood which instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism to eventually take up the struggle for Indias independence. Independence from British rule was such a dominating concept in his mind that when he was just a kid, he went with his father to a field where he started digging. When his father asked him as to what he was doing, he replied that if he sows bullets, he will be able to reap many bullets like crops thus make India free. In 1919, at the age of 12, Bhagat Singh visited the site of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, where hundreds of people gathered for a peaceful public meeting, were fired upon without warning, as per the order of General Dyer and killed. As a young lad, Bhagat Singh was under the influence of Mahatma Gandhi and actively took part in the non-cooperation movement. He earnestly believed that India would indeed gain freedom under Gandhis leadership. But when Gandhi called off the movement following the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922, he became disenchanted with Gandhism and gradually veered towards armed revolutionary struggle. He joined the young revolutionary movement and began to advocate the violent overthrow of the British in India. He founded the Indian nationalist youth organisation, the Naujawan Bharat Sabha, in March 1926. He also joined the Hindustan Republican Association, that later emerged as the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, which had in it prominent personalities, such as Ram Prasad Bismil, Chandra Shekhar Azad and Ashfaqulla Khan. Due to the widespread popularity of Singh the police became concerned over his influence on the youth and decided to trap Singh so as to divert him from his goal. In May 1927 the police arrested him on the mere pretext of having been involved in a bombing that had taken place at Lahore in October of the previous year. He was released on a surety of Rs 60,000 five weeks after his arrest. He wrote for and edited Urdu and Punjabi newspapers, published from Amritsar, as well as briefly for the Veer Arjun newspaper published from Delhi. He also contributed to Kirti, the journal of the Kirti Kisan Party (Workers and Peasants Party). In September 1928, the HSRA organised an all-India meeting of revolutionaries in Delhi with Singh as its secretary. He later rose to become the HSRAs leader. After Lala Lajpat Rais death during a non-violent protest against the Simon Commissions visit, he was deeply influenced by the development, and vowed to take revenge against the British officials. In this vow he was not alone but was joined by other revolutionaries such as Shivaram Rajguru, Sukhdev Thapar and Chandra Shekhar Azad. They plotted to kill Scott who was responsible for Lajpat Rais death. They did not look back and delved deep into the movement facing all the heinous actions of the British Government and ultimately sacrificed their life. However, in a case of mistaken identity, Singh received a signal to shoot John P. Saunders, an Assistant Superintendent of Police. He was shot by Rajguru and Singh while leaving the District Police Headquarters in Lahore on December 17, 1928. Although the murder of Saunders was condemned as a retrograde action by Mahatma Gandhi, the Congress leader, others were more understanding of the motivation. Within a few months, Bhagat Singh achieved amazing popularity. He eluded efforts by the police to capture him. Together with Batuke-shwar Dutt, he undertook a successful effort to throw two bombs and leaflets inside the Central Legislative Assembly while shouting slogans of revolution. Subsequently they volunteered to surrender and be arrested. Singh and Dutt were sentenced to 14 years of life imprisonment. On April 15, 1929, after the discovery of a bomb factory in Lahore, the police arrested other members of the HSRA, out of which seven turned out to be informants. Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were charged with the murder of Saunders. Singhs life sentence in the Assembly bomb case was deferred till the Saunders case was decided. He was sent to the Mianwali jail from the Delhi jail, where he witnessed discrimi-nation between European and Indian prisoners. Even in prison he did not keep quiet and vehemently opposed all biases. He along with other prisoners decided to declare hunger strike to protest this. They demanded equality in standards of food, clothing, toiletries and other hygienic necessities, as well as availability of books and a daily newspaper for the political prisoners. He also demanded that Indian prisoners should not be forced to do manual labour or any undignified work in the jail as it was also a part of colour prejudice symbolising hatred against Indians. Since the activities of the hunger strikers had gained popularity and attention amongst the people, especially the youth, the government decided to advance the start of the Saunders murder trial, which was henceforth called the Lahore Conspiracy Case. He underwent a 116-day fast in jail and his popularity among the common Indians melted all the geographical boundaries of Punjab. During this time, sufficient evidence was brought against him for a conviction in the Saunders case. After trial by a Special Tribunal. Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev were convicted and subsequently capital punishment was announced against them for the Lahore cons-piracy case on March 24, 1931. In Punjab, a defence committee drew up a plan to appeal to the Privy Council. Singh initially did not favour it, but later agreed to it in the hope that the appeal would popularise the HSRA in Britain. However, the appeal was dismissed. Singh was hanged on March 23, 1931 at 7:30 pm in Lahore jail with his comrades Rajguru and Sukhdev. His death turned out to be an inspiration to thousands of youth, who popularised the dream of Singh. After this incident the youth not only opposed the British Government but fully plunged into the war of independence. In all regions around northern India they came out in protest against the British Raj and Gandhi too as they felt that Singhs hanging could have been revoked if Gandhi had backed the move. In his last letter, Bhagat Singh wrote: I have been arrested while waging a war. For me there can be no gallows. Put me into the mouth of cannon and blow me off. Jawaharlal Nehru acknowledged that the popularity of Bhagat Singh was leading to a new national awakening, and observed: He was a clean fighter who faced his enemy in the open field ... he was like a spark that became a flame in a short time and spread from one end of the country to the other dispelling the prevailing darkness everywhere. Four years after Singhs hanging, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, Sir Horace Williamson, wrote: His photograph was on sale in every city and township and for a time rivalled in popularity even that of Mr Gandhi himself. Singhs legacy prompted the youth in India to begin fighting for Indian independence and achieve freedom by all means. He started being idealised by thousands of youngsters of the time. Both Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh were the two front wheels of the cart of the Indian freedom movement which could not move without them. Both were committed towards achieving the goal of Indias freedom from British rule. However, the means they adopted were distinctly different. Mahatma Gandhi spearheaded a civil disobedience movement founded on the principles of non-violence and satyagraha, while Bhagat Singh waged a revolutionary armed struggle laced with violence against the British regime. Both had their own views and ideologies but the motive was the same. Gandhi inspired all the people not only in India but across the world to join hands to wrest independence from the British empire but Singh, on the other hand, traversed a new path to demand independence. Also Singh turned out to be a great inspiration for the youth to join the freedom movement. Both contributed immensely towards Indian freedom. Bhagat Singh was executed while he was only 24 years old. In contrast, Gandhi lived a long life and India succeeded in gaining freedom under his leadership. Gandhi is affectionately known as Bapu while Bhagat Singh is remembered as Shaheed-e-Azam. The youth of India still idealise Singh as a brave hero, who was voted the Greatest Indian in a poll by the magazine, India Today, in 2008, ahead of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Gandhi. Although Bhagat Singh was quite popular yet history has seen the prominence of Mahatma Gandhi in the Indian freedom movement and he became popular and famous not only in India but overseas too. The pre-eminence of Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh in the Indian freedom movement and their distinctly different approaches have triggered many controversies and even cons-piracy theories. Most of these stem from Gandhi and the Indian National Congresss alleged failure to prevent Bhagat Singhs execution despite the former enjoying substantial clout with the British Government. In fact, in a number of recent Bollywood movies like Shaheed Bhagat Singh it has been shown that Gandhi could have done more to save Bhagat Singhs life. Yet Gandhi was an admirer of Bhagat Singh and publicly acknowledged his patriotism on many occasions. The Mahatma in fact wrote to the Viceroy pleading with him to commute the death sentence of Singh and his accomplices. Bhagat Singhs 404-page jail diary speaks a lot about his ideas, philosophy and his dreams for the country. There are some questions like: What were the reasons behind Mahatma Gandhis success in achieving self-rule in India? What were the major causes behind Bhagat Singh diverting from Mahatma Gandhis path after following that cause for quite sometime? What were the methods of Gandhi and Bhagat Singh to achieve freedom and in what respects were they different? Was Bhagat Singh a terrorist or not? Was he an atheist or not? So, the present study has tried to address the issues like how Gandhi overshadowed Bhagat Singh and emerged as a strong focus of the freedom movement. Was it just the contrasting principles, ideologies and approaches or Gandhis mass appeal, charisma or political strategy? And whether it is actually correct to say that Bhagat Singh was a total contrast to Mahatma Gandhi. Through the current study, an effort has been made to explore the perceptions of both the leaders regarding freedom, regarding each other and Gandhis role in Bhagat Singhs defence. For the purpose of the present research work, various primary as well as secondary sources were used. Conclusion Both Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh are two legendary figures of the Indian freedom movement. Both preferred different strategies and were equally popular among the masses. Among the martyrs who willingly treaded the thorny path with courage and faced the gallows with fortitude, the name of Bhagat Singh shines as a star and is reveredly remembered as Shaheed-e-Azam. So, Bhagat Singh has been ranked as a rival of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi considered satyagraha as a strategic, ethical and pedagogic tool. On the other hand, Bhagat Singh criticised the upliftment of satyagraha from a political strategy to a vague moral appeal. Gandhi was a strict follower of non-violence (ahimsa) while for Bhagat Singh the question of violence or non-violence was merely a question of strategy in the political struggle. Although Bhagat Singhs acts of violence were heroic and truly patriotic, yet they yielded not much success because the masses were not ready for violence, and the political leadership also had opted for another strategy. On the other hand, Gandhian non-violence resonated with the Indian masses and offered them a chance to serve the nation. Gandhis satyagraha involved mass-participation and became quite popular. Due to this popularity, he is affectio-nately remembered as Bapu. Gandhi, despite his disapproval of Bhagat Singhs action, regarded his sacrifice as a patriotic act, and described his death as a great loss to the nation. After studying and comparing the perceptions of Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh, the present study concludes that One of the prime reasons for the success of Mahatma Gandhi was the method deployed by him, that is, satyagraha based on non-violence (harmless methods to present demands). Gandhi had far-sighted goals but the goals of Bhagat Singh could be termed as short- term as the latter opted for the tit for tat theme. And the major causes behind differences between Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh lay in their methods and strategies. Although both aimed to achieve one common goal, yet the methods adopted by them were as different as chalk and cheese. Gandhi believed in the use of non-violent force and was also willing to compromise. Gandhi considered satyagraha and non-violence as two strategic tools for achieving freedom. For Gandhi satyagraha was a form of ethical-political operation to reinforce rationality in an otherwise irrational and inhuman system of oppression and exploitation that denied humanity of its essential dignity. For Bhagat Singh, such a view was at best a naivety that failed to gauge the political task at hand. It could be practised against individualseven the most hideous onesbut not against a system that was much beyond any indivi-dual or group of individuals. Bhagat Singh was not a blind adherent of violence. He differentiated between violence and force, the former being used by the ruling classes, the oppressors or the state to perpetuate exploitation and their rule, while the latter was the resistance put up by the exploited or oppressed people and insisted that what they were resorting to was force and not violence. Singh was not a total contrast to Gandhism as he also adopted various forms of struggle such as hunger strike and satyagraha while in jail. He had also actively participated in the non-cooperation movement. Although Bhagat Singhs acts of violence were heroic and truly patriotic yet they yielded not much success because the masses were not ready for violence, and the political leadership also had opted for another strategy. On the other hand, Gandhian non-violence resonated with the Indian masses and offered them a chance to serve the nation. Gandhi, despite his disapproval of Bhagat Singhs action, made desperate efforts to save Bhagat Singhs life till the end and described his death as a great loss to the nation. References 1. BooksCollected Works forMahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh. 2. Gandhi, M.K., Satyagraha In South Africa (Ahmedabad: Navjivan Publishing House), 1924. 3. Gandhi, M.K., An Autobiography or The Story Of My Experiments With Truth (Ahmedabad: Navajivan Publishing House), 1927. 4. Singh, Bhagat, Why I am an Atheist (Ludhiana:Letters,Writings and Statements of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and his Compatriots. Shaheed Bhagat Singh Research Committee), 1930. 5. Andrews, C.F., M. Gandhis Idea (London: Allen and Unwin), 1931. 6. Gandhi, M.K., Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule (Ahmedabad : Navajivan Publishing House), 1938. 7. Diwaker, R.R., Satyagraha: Its Technique and History (Bombay: Hind Kitans), 1946. 8. Wellock, Wilfred, Gandhi as a Social Revolutionary, Sarvodaya Pracharalayam(Tirupur), 1953. 9. Ashe, Geoffrey, Gandhi (London: Heinemann), 1968. 10. Gandhi, M.K., Harijan, A Journal of Applied Gandhism (New York: Garland) 1973. 11. Bakshi, S.R., Revolutionaries and The British Raj (University of Michigan: Atlantic Publishers and Distributors), 1988. 12. Singh, Sangat, The Sikhs In History (University of Michigan : S. Singh), 1995. 13. Datta, Vishwanath, Gandhi and Bhagat Singh (New Delhi: Rupa and Co), 2000. 14. Nayar, Kuldip, The Martyr: Bhagat Singh Experiments In Revolution (University of Michigan : Har-Anand Publications), 2000. 15. Habib, Irfan S., Singh, Bhagat, To make the deaf hear: Ideology and Programme of Bhagat Singh and His Comrades (University of Michigan: Three Essays Collective Publisher), 2007. 16. Singh, Bhagat, Hooja, Bhupendra, The Jail Note-book and Other Writings (New Delhi: Leftword Books Publishers), 2007. The author belongs to the Department of Gandhian and Peace Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh. She can be contacted at e-mail: mansavipatyar[at]gmail.com Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday he would sue two of his main political rivals for libel over remarks relating to a graft scandal involving a German submarine deal. In a video published on his Facebook page, Netanyahu said he had instructed his attorneys to take legal action against former armed forces chief Benny Gantz and ex-defence minister Moshe Yaalon, both from the centrist Blue and White party which is seeking to unseat the prime minister in an April 9 election. Netanyahu faces no charges over the submarine deal but he faces possible indictment in three other corruption cases. He has denied all wrongdoing. CHRISTCHURCH - Smelling of fresh paint, the two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch where a gunman killed 50 worshippers last week reopened their doors on Saturday, with many survivors among the first to walk in and pray for those who died. At the Al Noor mosque, where more than 40 of the victims were killed by a suspected white supremacist, prayers resumed with armed police on site, but no graphic reminders of the mass shooting, New Zealand's worst. Earlier on Saturday, about 3,000 people walked through Christchurch in a "march for love" as the city seeks to heal from its tragedy. Carrying placards with signs such as "He wanted to divide us, he only made us stronger", "Muslims welcome, racists not", and "Kia Kaha" - Maori for 'stay strong', people walked mostly in silence or softly sang a Maori hymn of peace. Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2019 > Poll Campaign, Parrikar, Christchurch Carnage With the campaign for the 17th Lok Sabha polls in full swing, the parties in the electoral fray, primarily the BJP and Congress, are trading charges against each other with gusto. In the midst of this campaign former Defence Minister and present Goa CM Manohar Parrikar breathed his last on March 16 having lost his year- long battle with pancreatic cancer. He played a major role in building the BJP in the State having been nurtured by the RSS since his youth. And as The Times of India noted, It is a tribute to Parrikars acceptability that parties like the MGP and GFP which campaigned on an anti-BJP platform in the 2017 elections were willing to ally with the BJP after the polls provided Parrikar would become the Chief Minister. While this brings out the personality of Parrikar, it also underlines the importance of the RSS activities and organisational capabilities across the country that must be a cause for concern and worry for all secular democrats; unfortunately the latter are either indifferent to such a development or adopt a cant-care-less attitude. (It must be stressed in this context that the BJPs recent landslide win in the Tripura Assembly polls subjecting the CPM, then ruling the State, to a humiliating defeat was also the consequence of the RSS tireless but silent work at the grassroots.) During the campaign another sad news reached us from distant New Zealand. It is learnt that a 28-year-old White nationalist indulged in mass shooting at two mosques full of worshippers attending Friday prayers at Christchurch on March 15, killing 49 persons and wounding 48. This attack was broadcast in a horrifying, live video by the immigrant-hating White supremacist wielding two assault rifles and a shotgun. What is, however, most encouraging is the approach and stand of the New Zealand PM, Jacinda Ardern, who, in a message after the carnage, declared: We are a proud nation of more than 200 ethnicities, 160 languages. And amongst that diversity we share common values. For this act, she pointed out: We were chosen.... because we represent diversity, kindness, compassion. A home for those who share our values. Refuge for those who need it. And those values will not and cannot be shaken by this attack. She unequivocally stood by the immigrants, insisting: They have chosen to make this their home. They are us. The person who perpetrated this is not us. Even if such a ghastly tragedy as happened in Christchurch has not taken place here, a large number of innocent people have lost their lives due to violent assaults by communal elements nurtured by those currently in power. Yet has our chowkidar or any of his colleagues ever said anything remotely close to what the New Zealand PM asserted after the Christchurch carnage? The answer is an emphatic no. This is precisely why the present dispensation has no moral authority to remain in power. This dispensation must, therefore, be convincingly defeated at the hustings this year. This needs to be highlighted in the midst of the poll campaign by impartial observers who have no axe, political or otherwise, to grind. March 20 S.C. News Las Vegas, Nevada - The leader of a serial robbery crew was sentenced today to 210 months in federal prison for two armed robberies in Las Vegas, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada. Cortez Harris, 29, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, two counts of interference with commerce by robbery, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Richard F. Boulware II sentenced Harris to five years of supervised release. According to court documents, on the morning of July 13, 2017, Harris and co-conspirators Leonard Tremillo Jr., Janellcie Gibbons, and a juvenile robbed a convenience store located on S. Rainbow Blvd. in Las Vegas. Harris pointed a firearm towards the customers in the lobby, then he and the juvenile walked behind the counter. He then pointed the firearm at an employee and told the victim to open the safe. After the victim gave Harris money from the safe, he demanded more money, pointed the gun at her head, and threatened to kill her. Tremillo stayed in the lobby with the customers. They stole approximately $1,626, and fled from the business. Less than one hour later, Harris and his co-conspirators robbed a cash advance business located on E. Bonanza Rd. Harris approached an employee and told her not to call the police while he held a firearm to her head. During the robbery, Harris pistol-whipped the victim. They stole approximately $4,838, and fled in a get-away car driven by co-conspirator, Janellcie Gibbons. Law enforcement identified Harris and his co-conspirators from video surveillance footage at both businesses. The robbery crew was linked to a larger series of armed robberies in Utah, Texas, and Colorado, between July 3 and July 25, 2017. Leonard Tremillo Jr. pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 108 months in prison; Janellcie Gibbons pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 87 months in prison; and the juvenile co-conspirator pleaded guilty and was sentenced in Texas for a related robbery. The case was investigated by the FBI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Michael prosecuted the case. Arizona News Phoenix, Arizona - On Tuesday, March 12, 2019, Elizabeth Ainslie, 56, believed to be the Biddy Bandit, was taken into custody without incident in Phoenix. Ainslie is charged with three bank robberies and two attempted bank robberies which occurred between August 4, 2018, and December 18, 2018. During the robberies, the suspect approached the tellers and presented a robbery demand note, then fled on foot. No one was physically injured. The suspect is believed to be responsible for the following robberies and/or attempted robberies: August 4, 2018 Chase Bank 2950 West Peoria Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona September 10, 2018 Wells Fargo 1901 South Gilbert Road, Mesa, Arizona November 14, 2018 Chase Bank 4714 South Rural Road, Tempe, Arizona November 24, 2018 Chase Bank 2950 West Peoria Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona December 8, 2018 Chase Bank 4250 West Thunderbird Road, Phoenix, Arizona An anonymous tip from the public ultimately led to the identification of the suspect. As a matter of policy, the FBI does not publically release the identity of those who provide tips. The FBIs Violent Crimes Task Force would like to thank the public for their assistance with this case, along with Silent Witness and the media. The FBI would also like to thank the Tempe Police Department for their work on this case. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The suspect has been charged in a complaint, filed in federal court. A complaint is only an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The FBIs Violent Crimes Task Force is comprised of the Phoenix Police Department, Scottsdale Police Department, Maricopa County Sheriffs Office FATE team, Maricopa County Attorneys Office, and the FBI. 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. Cash-starved Jet Airways announced that it has reduced as well as suspended its services on several international routes till April-end, news agency ANI reported on Saturday. The airline reduced its services on the Delhi to Bangkok route, Delhi to Singapore route, Mumbai to Bangkok route, and Mumbai to Singapore route were reduced from three flights daily to one flight per day and services on Mumbai to Doha route and Mumbai to Kuwait route were reduced from two flights daily to one flight daily. On the other hand, services were suspended on the Bangalore to Singapore route, which had two flights daily, Delhi to Abu Dhabi, which had nine flights weekly, Delhi to Dammam, which had 14 flights weekly, Delhi to Dhaka, which had 11 flights weekly, Delhi to Hong Kong, which had seven flights weekly, Delhi to Riyadh, which had 7 flights weekly, and Kolkata to Dhaka which had seven flights weekly. Jet Airways also has suspended its services on these routes--Mumbai to Abu Dhabi (12 flights weekly), Mumbai to Bahrain (4-7 flights weekly), Mumbai to Dammam (14 flights weekly), Mumbai to Hong Kong (7 flights weekly), Pune to Abu Dhabi (7 flights weekly), and Pune to Singapore (7 flights weekly). According to ANI sources, based on the current listing, service reductions and cancellations are listed till April 30. However, certain suspended service until April 30 is currently listed as not available for flights on or after May 12. Various domestic routes also see service reductions. Earlier on Friday evening, the airline had grounded seven more planes due to non-payment of rentals. "... An additional seven aircraft including two planes of JetLite have been grounded due to non-payment of amounts outstanding to lessors under their respective lease agreements," the airline had said in a filing to the stock exchanges late evening on Friday. The company said that as mentioned earlier, it is actively engaged with all its aircraft lessors and is regularly providing them with updates on the efforts taken to improve the liquidity. The Pune-Singapore flight was launched with much fanfare late in December 2019. Jet Airways has already suspended services on the Mumbai-Manchester route. Gasping for funds and no bailout on the horizon, the Naresh Goyal-controlled airline has now reduced its operations to one-fourth from over 600 daily flights earlier, with just one-third of its 119 fleet being operational. New Delhi: Police on Saturday denied permission to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's public rally in Shakurbasti. Police said that the place is congested and so the gathering was cancelled. "Permission not granted as space is very congested. The concerned ACP rejected the proposal on these grounds," police said. Kejriwal later blamed the ruling BJP for the cancellation. He further questioned how many rallies of the saffron party were cancelled in the last five years. "BJP gets my public rally cancelled today through police. Police denies permission. How many BJP rallies were denied permission by police in Delhi in last 5 years?" Kejriwal tweeted. The Delhi Chief Minister, however, is scheduled to address another rally in Timarpur on Saturday. (With inputs from IANS) New Delhi: BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday strongly criticised Congress after Rahul Gandhi's aide Sam Pitroda raised questions on the Indian Air Force-conducted airstrikes in Pakistan's Balakot. Shah said that the Congress president must explain it to the nation if they consider the heinous Pulwama attack a routine incident. Seeking answer from the Congress chief in a press conference, Shah further asked if Pakistan should not be held responsible for the deeds of its seven to eight people, then who is to be blamed for the deadly terror attacks taking place in the country. "If a country shouldn't be held responsible for the deeds of 7 to 8 people, does Congress believe that Pakistan government and military have a connection with the terror attacks in India? If there is a connection, who is the culprit, Congress party should answer," Shah asked. Hitting out at the Congress for questioning the airstrikes, the BJP chief said, "If terror attacks shouldn't be responded with surgical strikes & air strikes, and should be dealt with talks, is this Congress' policy to deal with terrorism. Congress president should respond on these." Shah attacked the Gandhi scion and said that doubting the IAF does not suit the national president of any party. "Who do you support? Doubting the Indian Air Force is not right for the national president of any party. You stand in support when slogans are raised against the country in JNU, and call it the freedom of expression," Shah said. Raking up up the much-talked-about IAF airstrikes on Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot, Rahul Gandhi's close confidant and chief of Indian Overseas Congress Sam Pitroda had asked the Modi government to reveal if the aerial operations were a success and killed as many as 300 terrorists. The Congressman refused to blame Pakistan for terror strikes in India and also brushed aside the Pulwama attack as something that happens all the time. The airstrikes came as a retaliation following the February 14 suicide bombing of the Central Reserve Police Force convoy in which at least 40 paramilitary personnel were killed. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia on his birth anniversary and launched an attack on the Opposition. In his blog titled "Remembering Dr. Lohia", PM Modi asserted that Lohia would have been proud of the NDA governments work as it has made a long-lasting contribution in fulfilling his vision. PM Modi also wrote that whenever Lohia spoke, the Congress would tremble with fear and he knew how disastrous the Congress was. PM Modi recalled a quote of Lohia said in 1962, During the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the army has improved. He added, "these words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored". PM Modi regretted that Lohia would have been horrified at the political developments taking place. "Those parties that claim inspiration from Dr. Lohia have completely abandoned his principles. They are leaving no opportunity to insult him. The veteran socialist leader from Odisha, Surendranath Dwivedy remarked, He (Dr. Lohia) was imprisoned many times more during Congress regime than under the British rule. He slammed the Opposition saying that those parties that "falsely claim to be Lohias followers are desperate to form an opportunistic Maha Milawat or adulteration alliances with the same Congress". The prime minister called it both ironical and reprehensible. Lohia would have been flabbergasted to see his followers think about their own families first instead of the nation as he always believed that dynastic politics was inimical to democracy said the prime minister. "Dr. Lohia stated that one who works with Samta, Samanata and Samatva Bhaav is a Yogi. Sadly, the parties that claim to be his followers forgot this principle. They believe in Satta, Swarth and Shoshan. These parties are experts at grabbing power, looting as much as possible and exploiting others. Poor people, Tribals, Dalits, OBCs and women are not safe in their rule because these parties give a free run to criminals and anti-social elements," said the PM. In strong words, he criticised the Opposition saying, "In his works, Lohia called for complete equality between men and women. But, neck deep in vote bank politics, it was parties that dishonestly claim to be Lohias followers that opposed the NDA Governments move to abolish the inhuman practice of Triple Talaq." PM Modi concluded his blog asking, "Is the commitment to vote bank politics bigger than the commitment to Lohias thoughts?" He rued, "Today they are betraying the principles of Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India." Here is the full blog of PM Modi: Today is a day to honour revolutionaries. We pay tributes to great sons of Mother India - Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru for their ultimate sacrifice. We bow to a prolific thinker, exceptional intellectual, revolutionary and devout patriot, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia on his Jayanti. Dr. Lohia combined a sharp mind and a penchant for mass politics. When top leaders were arrested during the Quit India movement, a young Dr. Lohia remained unfazed, went underground and even started an underground radio station to further the movement. In the history of Goas liberation, the name of Dr. Lohia is etched in golden letters. Wherever the marginalised needed a voice, Dr. Lohia was there. Dr. Lohias thoughts inspire us. He wrote about modernising agriculture and empowering farmers, which the NDA Government is effectively doing through efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and more. Nothing pained Dr. Lohia more than the caste hierarchy and inequality between women and men. Our Mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas as well as our track record in the last five years show that we have made a long-lasting contribution in fulfilling the vision of Dr. Lohia. He would surely have been very proud of the NDA Governments work. Whenever Dr. Lohia spoke, inside or outside Parliament, the Congress trembled with fear. Dr. Lohia knew how disastrous Congress was. In 1962 he said, During the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the army has improved. These words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored. Anti-Congressism was Dr. Lohias heart and soul. His efforts ensured a shock to the then all-powerful Congress in 1967 elections. That time, Atal Ji remarked- Due to Dr. Lohias efforts, one could travel on board the Howrah-Amritsar Mail without having to pass a single Congress state! Unfortunately, today Dr. Lohia would be horrified at the political developments taking place. Those parties that claim inspiration from Dr. Lohia have completely abandoned his principles. They are leaving no opportunity to insult him. The veteran socialist leader from Odisha, Shri Surendranath Dwivedy remarked, He (Dr. Lohia) was imprisoned many times more during Congress regime than under the British rule. Yet, today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr. Lohias followers are desperate to form an opportunistic Maha Milawat or adulteration alliances with the same Congress. It is both ironical and reprehensible. Dr. Lohia always believed that dynastic politics was inimical to democracy. He would have been flabbergasted to see his followers think about their own families first instead of the nation. Dr. Lohia stated that one who works with Samta, Samanata and Samatva Bhaav is a Yogi. Sadly, the parties that claim to be his followers forgot this principle. They believe in Satta, Swarth and Shoshan. These parties are experts at grabbing power, looting as much as possible and exploiting others. Poor people, Tribals, Dalits, OBCs and women are not safe in their rule because these parties give a free run to criminals and anti-social elements. In his works, Dr. Lohia called for complete equality between men and women. But, neck deep in vote bank politics, it was parties that dishonestly claim to be Dr. Lohias followers that opposed the NDA Governments move to abolish the inhuman practice of Triple Talaq. Is the commitment to vote bank politics bigger than the commitment to Dr. Lohias thoughts? Today, a moot question facing 130 crore Indians is: How can those who betrayed Dr. Lohia be expected to serve the nation? Today they are betraying the principles of Dr. Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India. The Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist organisation has been recruiting terrorists by using a mobile application, Textnow, National Investigation Agency (NIA) sources told Zee media on Saturday. This comes a day after the Delhi Police arrested alleged JeM terrorist Sajjad Khan, a close associate of Pulwama attack mastermind Mudassir Ahmed Khan. A Delhi court on Friday had sent Sajjad to NIA custody till March 29. The development comes after the NIA questioned Sajjad. Sajjad revealed that after the Pulwama attack, he was in touch with other terrorists through this app. The investigative agencies had come to know about this app following which they started to keep an eye on Sajjad. Immediately after the Pulwama attack, Sajjad was texted by Mudassir through this app. Sajjad was arrested on Thursday night from Red Fort area in the national capital. He was roaming in Delhi as a trader of shawls. A resident of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, Sajjad had knowledge about the Pulwama attack. He was in contact with Mudasir, who was killed in an encounter. Sajjad was tasked by the terror group of establishing a sleeper cell in the national capital. Muddasir was neutralised during Tral encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. According to reports, Muddasir had provided the van used in the attack and explosives to Pulwama suicide bomber Adil Ahmed Dar. He was also involved in plotting multiple IED blasts in Kashmir valley. At least 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14 after a JeM suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their bus. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan as part of the diplomatic practice of writing to heads of state or government on national days. The letter is sent to all countries with whom India has diplomatic relations. The development comes on the heels of Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan tweeting that he received a message from PM Modi on the occasion of Pakistan National day which is celebrated on March 23. According to Khan, PM Modi in the message said, "I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan." In the letter, PM Modi highlighted the importance of a terror-free south Asia. The unsigned letter was sent to the Pakistani government ahead of Pakistani National Day. India has boycotted Pakistan National Day events in Delhi and Islamabad as Pakistan had invited separatist Hurriyat leadership. No political representative was sent to Pakistan National day reception at Pakistan high commission in the national capital, while in Pakistan, Indian high commission and other Indian diplomats will not be participating in Pakistan national day events on Saturday. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "I can confirm India has decided not to send any representative. This decision was taken after Pakistan HC decided to invite the Hurriyat representative to the reception." He added, "You are aware of about our reaction in the past, most recently in February. We are very clear, any attempt by Pakistan leadership or High Commission to engage with the Hurriyat leadership will not be taken lightly." It is important to note that no Hurriyat leader was seen at Pakistani national day even though they were invited. Pakistan National Day marks the day when Muslim League passed the Lahore resolution calling for the formation of Pakistan on March 23, 1940. The country on March 23, 1956 also adopted its first constitution. Bengaluru: Karnataka government on Saturday suspended seven officials of Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation for negligence in connection with the building collapse that claimed lives of at least 15 people. The four-storeyed under construction building collapsed on Tuesday evening at Dharwad's Kumareshwaranagar. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered by Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy. More than 400 personnel including members of NDRF, SDRF, police and Revenue Department are jointly undertaking the rescue operation. A day after the collapse, an FIR was lodged against five people. The accused include owners of the building Basavraj Nigadi, Ravi Sabrad, Mahabaleshwar Puradgudi and Gangappa Shintre and an engineer Vivek Pawar. The accused engineer was later arrested from Kolhapur in Maharashtra while the four partners of Renuka Construction surrendered before the police. BENGALURU: Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Devegowda will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election from Tumkur parliamentary constituency as the ruling alliance candidate. He'll file the nomination papers on March 25. HD Devegowda will contest from the Tumkur parliamentary constituency as the combined candidate of JDS and Congress, JDS spokesperson Ramesh Babu told media persons. He will file his nomination on 25th Monday at 2 to 3 PM, at DC office, Tumkur. JDS and Congress will join the occasion." However, the decision to field Devegowda as the alliance candidate has not gone down well with the sitting Congress MP from Tumkur, P Muddahanumegowda. What is coalition, what is coordination? I'm a sitting MP from here and I have delivered at the floor of the house. Why have you denied me the ticket? It is not correct, said Muddahanumegowda, adding that he'll file his nomination from Congress party for the seat on Monday. Elected representatives and all local leaders want me to contest. That's why on Monday we will start a procession from BGS circle to DC office and I'll file nomination with the support of all our leaders as the Congress candidate for Tumkur, he added. As per the seat-sharing pact, of the total 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka, Congress will contest 20 and JD (S) on eight. Immediately after the announcement, Muddahanumegowda along with Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara requested the JD (S) to give the seat back to the Congress, amid simmering discontent within the party's local leadership about ceding the seat to the alliance partner, reported news agency PTI. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday will sound the poll bugle by holding a rally in Purnea district of Bihar. This is his first election rally ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha election. In the rally, Bihar Congress chief Madan Mohan Jha, Congress leaders including Sadanand Singh will be present. The leaders of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) have not been invited to attend the rally. No decision could be made by the party about including the leaders of the Mahagathbandhan in the rally. Earlier on Friday, the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) announced its seat-sharing formula for the election. The Rashtriya Janta Dal will contest on 20 seats, Congress on nine seats, Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) on five seats, Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and Vikasheel Insaan Party (VIP) on three seats each and Communist Party of India (MarxistLeninist) Liberation on one seat (from RJD quota). The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has already announced its seat-sharing pact -- the BJP and the JD(U) will contest on 17 seats each and six seats were allotted to the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). Patna: It is not for nothing that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has earned the sobriquet of 'Chanakya' of Bihar politics. Often deprecatively dubbed as 'paltu ram' (turncoat) by RJD boss Lalu Prasad, with whom he has had a love-hate relationship for long, Kumar, a mechanical engineer by training, has outmanoeuvred his rivals, much like the wise and wily advisor to emperor Chandragupta, to stay afloat on the choppy political waters of the Hindi heartland state. Politically debilitated after his JDU was mauled at the hustings in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, barely a year after the party snapped its ties with the BJP at his insistence in the aftermath of Narendra Modi's anointment as the saffron party's prime ministerial face, he made friends with arch-rival Lalu and halted the Modi juggernaut in its tracks in the 2015 Bihar assembly polls. Less than two years down the line, the three-party grand alliance lay in tatters as he bolted out of it over allegations of corruption against Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir apparent of Lalu, and resigned as the chief minister. Twelve hours had not passed when he was back in the chief minister's chair, as sensing an opportunity to return to power in Bihar the BJP offered him support, which Kumar readily accepted despite the RJD crying foul and demanding that he seek a fresh mandate. Kumar, known for his clean image, insisted the decision was in sync with his agenda of development and reflected zero tolerance to corruption. The development proved his survival skills but was reviled by those who saw in him a potential challenger to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The backward class leader, who did not helm the party when it all happened, now faces the challenge of delivering Bihar to Modi at a time when he is the JD(U) president. Though he invited jeers from RJD supremo Lalu Prasad and his son Tejashwi Yadav, who publicly called him "paltu ram", his loyalists hailed him for his personal integrity. JD(U) national general secretary and chief spokesman K C Tyagi disagreed with the negative views of Kumar's rivals about the leader. "Nitish Kumar is the only leader of his generation who has followed in the footsteps of Jayaprakash Narayan, Ram Manohar Lohia and Karpoori Thakur in terms of personal integrity," he said. Kumar's detractors panned him over his return to the NDA, claiming it compromised his self-professed commitment to secularism. Tyagi, however, insisted Kumar's commitment to secularism had not weakened a bit and that it was reflected in the body of work he had done for the minorities in the state. "Besides, he has been able to maintain his independent stance on issues like article 370, Ram temple and uniform civil code," Tyagi said. RJD vice president Shivanand Tiwari, a former associate of Kumar, said the JD(U) leader shirks challenges. "You can point out a challenge to him only at your own peril. In 2009, when Kumar famously cancelled a dinner for BJP leaders including Narendra Modi, who was then the Gujarat Chief Minister, I suggested to him that he should go for fresh elections as his personal popularity was at its peak, but he dithered. After he snapped ties with the BJP four years later, I told him it was not enough and something more will have to be done to surmount the challenge posed by Modi. Instead of paying heed, he unleashed his fury on me and I got expelled from JD(U)," Tiwari said. Under Kumar's stewardship, the JDU will contest 17 Lok Sabha seats, a number equal to what BJP has kept for itself. Kumar's detractors see it as a major climbdown for him as the JDU was the "senior partner" in the NDA in the state before it snapped its 17-year-old alliance with the BJP in 2013. However, his supporters are quick to point out that considering the fact that the JDU had fared miserably in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, winning only two seats compared to BJP's 22, the bargain was no mean achievement, particularly since it required the saffron party to give up some seats it had won. Moreover, unlike the BJP, which had to give up its claim on at least five of its sitting seats, the JDU retained both Nalanda and Purnea, besides securing for itself some prized ones like Munger, compelling the LJP to settle for Nawada. Nawada was represented in the outgoing Lok Sabha by Union minister Giriraj Singh one of the fiercest critics of Kumar in the BJP and a Modi loyalist since the days when bitter rivalry between the Bihar chief minister and his Gujarat counterpart used to make headlines. Singh, an influential upper caste Bhumihar leader, is unhappy at the prospect of having to shift to Begusarai despite the sizeable presence of his castemen in the constituency, saying he had developed an "attachment" to Nawada. Political circles are rife with speculation that the RJD-led grand alliance might field Kanhaiya Kumar, the firebrand former JNU students union leader for the seat on a CPI ticket. The upcoming general elections will also give an opportunity to Kumar to settle scores with friends-turned-foes Upendra Kushwaha of RLSP and HAM's Jitan Ram Manjhi, both of whom had rushed into the BJP's arms after falling out with the JDU boss. The two parties have walked out of the NDA and are now part of the grand alliance. Kushwaha, who heads the RLSP, may seek re-election from Karakat, while HAM president Manjhi is eyeing Gaya. Both these seats have fallen into the JDU's kitty. Another important seat that has come the JDU's way is Madhepura, offering Kumar a chance to get even with Sharad Yadav, the former president of his party who had fruitlessly dissented when the Bihar chief minister led his party out of the NDA in 2013. Yadav, who had bitterly criticised Kumar when he realigned with the BJP, later floated the Loktantrik Janata Dal and is part of the grand alliance. He has represented Madhepura seat several times in the past. A soft-spoken politician who is, nevertheless, known to suffer no fools, Kumar has earned the reputation of being the chief minister under whom an economically laggard Bihar turned the corner, recording double digit growth for several years, something which came in for praise even by the prime minister. The performance of his party in the Lok Sabha polls would also determine, to a large extent, the esteem in which he would be held by political peers and the public when the state elects a new assembly next year. New Delhi: Congress leader Jitin Prasada, who brushed aside speculations of he joining BJP, is expected to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha election from Lucknow against Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. "He may contest the polls against Rajnath Singh from Lucknow," IANS quoted a party source close to Prasada saying. "The party is likely to shift him to Lucknow to give Rajnath Singh a tough fight," the source added. The source also dismissed claims that Prasada may join the BJP ahead of the election. On being asked from where he would contest the poll, Prasada told ANI, "These are all speculation, the party will come out with a list of candidates after the CEC. I don't know anything about differences." The Congress leader has, meanwhile, met party's General Secretary in-charge of UP East Priyanka Gandhi to discuss the matter. Prasada's name figured in Congress' list of 11 candidates released for Uttar Pradesh on March 7. Jitin Prasada lost the 2014 poll from Dhaurahra constituency. He, however, won the 2004 election from Shahjahanpur and the 2009 poll from Dhaurahra. Prasada was a Minister of State in the UPA-I and UPA-II governments led by then prime minister Manmohan Singh. He also contested the 2017 Assembly elections but lost to Roshan Lal Verma of the BJP. (With inputs from IANS and ANI) LUCKNOW: Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Digvijaya Singh will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Election 2019 from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal constituency, considered to be the toughest seat in the state. Bhopal Lok Sabha seat has been held by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) since 1989. Late President Shankar Dayal Sharma was the last Congress winner from the seat in the 1984 Lok Sabha poll. The decision to field Singh from Bhopal was taken by Congress Central Election Committee, state Chief Minister Kamal Nath told media persons during informal discussions. I told him that instead of Rajgarh, contest the polls from Bhopal, Indore or Jabalpur. He'd said that he'll contest the polls from wherever (CEC) decides, Nath told Zee News. Singh, a two-time state Chief Minister and multiple times Lok Sabha MP, had earlier announced that he wanted to contest the upcoming general election from a tough seat. To this, Nath had responded that Singh should then choose the "toughest seat" in the state. "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 news agency PTI on March 16. Apart from Bhopal, the state's Indore Lok Sabha is also considered to be one of the tough seats. This constituency too has been held by the BJP since 1989. The announcement comes a day after Congress released the seventh list of 35 candidates for the Lok Sabha polls on Friday night. The list includes nine seats from Uttar Pradesh, eight from Tamil Nadu, five from Maharashtra, four seats from Chhattisgarh, three from Jammu and Kashmir, two from Odisha and Tripura each, and one seat each from Telangana and Puducherry. The list consisted of several changes including fielding Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee chief Raj Babbar from Fatehpur Sikri constituency. Babbar had earlier declined to contest from Moradabad constituency. Polling will be held in four stages in Madhya Pradesh - on April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. MP has a total of 29 Lok Sabha constituencies. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP had bagged 27 seats and Congress two seats. Shatrughan 'Shotgun' Sinha, one of the tallest Bollywood stars of yesteryears and a political leader in his own right, has finally seen the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) close its doors on him with the ticket of his Patna Sahib seat for Lok Sabha election 2019 going to Ravi Shankar Prasad, the Union Law Minister. The announcement of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidates on Saturday for 39 constituencies of Bihar for the Lok Sabha election would have hardly surprised Shatrughan Sinha, who had adopted an extremely aggressive and rebellious stand against the BJP leadership. Ravi Shankar Prasad has replaced Sinha and will now fight from the Patna Sahib seat. Sinha has been contesting from the Patna Sahib constituency and won during the 2009 and 2014 general elections. Sinha's rebellion had made it clear that BJP was not going to give him the ticket and he is likely to join the Congress and challenge Prasad. Patna Sahib goes to polls in the seventh and last phase of the election on May 19. The list on Saturday comes as a disgruntled Sinha, who has been at loggerheads with the current BJP leadership since the 2015 Bihar election, over several issues, had recently dropped a hint of quitting the party. He had also said that he would not change his constituency "whatever the situation", making clear he would contest again from Patna Sahib seat irrespective of the party decision. Sinha had shared the stage with opposition leaders at an anti-BJP rally in Kolkata in January, where he was projected as the "star speaker". The BJP lawmaker had alleged that he wasn't invited to recently held rallies in the state by the party. "Things would have been different had I attended the rallies. These rallies were not like the previously held rallies of BJP," he had said. The actor-turned-politician also asked the Narendra Modi-led government to clear its stand on the IAF airstrike on Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) training centre in Balakot and said, "Different BJP leaders gave different figures. While Amit Shah claimed 250 Jaish terrorists were killed, Yogi Adityanath and Radhamohan said 350 and 400 respectively. The martyrs' families have also sought information on the airstrikes carried out by IAF on Balakot. The government must clarify the situation," he had said. Recently, Shatrughan held a meeting with Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav at Lucknow, giving rise to speculations that he may contest the general elections on a Samajwadi Party. Reports also did the round that his wife and actress Poonam Sinha may enter politics from Lucknow, a seat which is currently held by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The suspense over BJP's candidate in Pathanamthitta Lok Sabha constituency, where the Sabarimala shrine is located, is continuing as the seat was left out in the party's first list of nominees. BJP Thursday night announced its first list of 184 candidates, including 13 from Kerala, leaving out only the Pathanamthitta constituency. BJP, which is seeking to open its account in Lok Sabha from Kerala in the April 23 polls, is contesting 14 of the 20 seats in the state, leaving five to its allies -- BDJS (Bharat Dharma Jana Sena) and one to Kerala Congress led by P C Thomas The party, which had spearheaded the agitation over the CPI-M led LDF government's decision to implement the Supreme Court's verdict allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine of Lord Ayyappa late last year, is pinning hopes on Pathanamithitta constituency. BJP state President P S Sreedharan Pillai, state General secretaries K Surendran and M T Ramesh and Union minister Alphons Kannanthanam were all keen on the Pathanamthitta seat. However, Kannanthanam has been fielded in Ernakulam. The dice seems to be loaded in favour of Surendran, who was in the forefront of the recent agitation over entry of women in menstrual age into Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala and had been incarcerated for nearly a month over the protest. Mumbai: A group of `upset` leaders from different allies of BJP on Saturday met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and decided to stay with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Sources said that these leaders discussed the issues related to seat sharing in the state. They were not happy with the seat-sharing as finalised by BJP and Shiv Sena. The leaders who met Chief Minister Fadnavis included Ramdas Athawale of the Republican Party of India, Mahadev Jankar of the Rashtriya Samaj Paksha, Sadhabhu Khot of Rayat Kranti Sanghtana, and Vinayak Mete of Shiv Sangram. After meeting the Chief Minister, the leaders agreed to stay with the NDA."We discussed what we can do to bring NDA government back in the country. Chief Minister Fadnavis has assured that no injustice will be done to the alliance," State Cabinet Minister Mahadev Jankar. "All the parties in the alliance will work together to form the government at the Centre. Fadnavis told us that he would accommodate us in the State Assembly. He has also spoken with Uddhav Thackeray on the issue," he said.BJP and Shiv Sena last month finalised seat-sharing under which the BJP will contest 25 seats while the Shiv Sena will contest on 23 seats. The Lok Sabha polls for 48 seats in Maharashtra will be conducted in four phases from April 11 to April 29. The results of the polls will be announced on May 23. BAMAKO: Gunmen killed at least 110 Fulani herders in central Mali on Saturday, a local mayor said, the deadliest such attack in recent times in a region reeling from worsening ethnic and jihadist violence. The assaults on the villages of Ogossagou and Welingara took place as a U.N. Security Council mission visited Mali to try to find solutions to violence that killed hundreds of civilians last year and is spreading across West Africa`s Sahel region. Moulaye Guindo, mayor of the nearby town of Bankass, said armed men, who were dressed as traditional Donzo hunters, encircled and attacked Ogossagou at about 4 a.m. (0400 GMT). "The body count continues by the gendarmes, who have just told me they have found 110 bodies, but the count continues," Guindo told Reuters by telephone from Ogossagou. He said another nearby Fulani village, Welingara, had also been attacked, causing "a number" of deaths, but he did not yet know how many. Security sources said the dead included pregnant women, children and elderly people. One Ogossagou resident, who asked not to be identified, said the attack appeared to be in retaliation for an al Qaeda affiliate`s claim of responsibility on Friday for a raid last week that killed 23 soldiers. The group said the raid was payback for violence by Mali`s army and militiamen against the Fulani. Jihadist groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State have exploited ethnic rivalries in Mali and its neighbours Burkina Faso and Niger in recent years to boost recruitment and render vast swathes of territory virtually ungovernable. French forces intervened in Mali, a former French colony, in 2013 to push back a jihadist advance from the desert north but the militants have since regrouped and expanded their presence into central Mali and the neighbouring countries. Some 4,500 French troops remain based in the wider Sahel, most of them in Mali. The United States also has hundreds of troops in the region. Security Council ambassadors met with Malian president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and other government officials on Friday evening to discuss the violence and the slow implementation of a 2015 peace agreement with non-Islamist armed groups. "Clear sense of frustration among many Security Council members at pace of implementation of Mali Peace Agreement," Britain`s representative on the mission, Stephen Hickey, wrote on Twitter. "Security Council prepared to impose sanctions on those who impede its implementation. WASHINGTON: Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia`s role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by US President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document`s quick release. Marking the end of his nearly two-year investigation that ensnared former Trump aides and Russian intelligence officers and cast a cloud over the Republican businessman`s presidency, Mueller submitted the report to Attorney General William Barr, the Justice Department said. Mueller did not recommend any further indictments, a senior Justice Department official said, in a sign that there might be no more criminal charges against Trump associates arising from the investigation. Throughout his investigation, Mueller has brought charges against 34 people and three companies. The big question now is whether the report contains allegations of wrongdoing by Trump himself or exonerates him. Mueller, a former FBI director, had been examining since May 2017 whether Trump`s campaign conspired with Moscow to try to influence the election and whether the Republican president later unlawfully tried to obstruct his investigation. Trump has denied collusion and obstruction. Russia has denied election interference. Trump has sought to discredit the investigation, calling it a "witch hunt" and accusing Mueller of conflicts of interest. But he said on Wednesday he does not mind if the public is allowed to see the report. The report was not immediately made public. Barr, the top U.S. law enforcement officer and a Trump appointee, will have to decide how much of it to disclose. Barr told lawmakers in a letter he may be able to provide the "principal conclusions" of Mueller`s findings to Congress as soon as this weekend and added that he was "committed to as much transparency as possible." Under regulations governing special counsel investigations, the attorney general must share an outline of Mueller`s report with Democratic and Republican leaders of the judiciary committees in Congress but it is largely up to him what to make public. Key Trump aides, including his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, national security adviser Michael Flynn and personal lawyer Michael Cohen, have already either been convicted or pleaded guilty to charges brought by Mueller. None of those charges, however, directly related to the question of collusion between the campaign and Moscow. The Justice Department has a policy that sitting presidents cannot face criminal charges. Lawmakers from both parties called for prompt release of the report. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer - the two top Democrats in Congress - said it was "imperative" the full report be made public, that Barr not give Trump and his team a "sneak preview" of the findings and that the White House not be allowed to interfere in decisions about what parts are made public. They said the investigation focussed on questions that "go to the integrity of our democracy itself: whether foreign powers corruptly interfered in our elections, and whether unlawful means were used to hinder that investigation." `OPENNESS AND TRANSPARENCY` Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in Congress, said, "The attorney general has said he intends to provide as much information as possible. As I have said previously, I sincerely hope he will do so as soon as he can, and with as much openness and transparency as possible." The White House has not received or been briefed on the report, spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said, adding that "we look forward to the process taking its course." When the Justice Department announced the arrival of the report, Trump was at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where he met on Friday with a group of Caribbean leaders. Staff members at the private club were setting up for a Lincoln Day dinner fundraiser for a local branch of the Republican Party. Programs for the event featured an image of a $5 bill with 19th century President Abraham Lincoln sporting a red Trump campaign hat with the slogan "Keep America Great" on it. Donald Trump Jr., the president`s eldest son, posted a picture on Twitter of his sons on a fishing trip. "Great day on the water with my little men for their spring break," he wrote. Representative Steve Scalise, the No. 2 House Republican and a strong ally of the president, expressed confidence the report would not find collusion with Russia. "The reports that there will be no new indictments confirm what we`ve known all along: there was never any collusion with Russia. The only collusion was between Democrats and many in the media who peddled this lie because they continue to refuse to accept the results of the 2016 election," Scalise said. Even if the Mueller report exonerates Trump, that may not spell the end to his legal troubles. Cohen pleaded guilty in August to campaign finance violations in a case overseen by federal prosecutors in Manhattan, who said in court filings that Cohen carried out the crimes at the direction of Trump. The U.S. Attorney`s Office in Manhattan is also looking at the spending of Trump`s inaugural committee and business practices at the Trump Organization, the family`s company. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that Moscow meddled in the election with a campaign of email hacking and online propaganda aimed at sowing discord in the United States, hurting Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and helping Trump. Mueller`s investigators have looked into a large number of contacts between people associated with Trump`s campaign and Russia such as a meeting in New York`s Trump Tower between members of the president`s inner circle including his eldest son and a Kremlin-linked Russian lawyer five months before the election. Mueller sought to determine whether the campaign coordinated with Moscow, though it was not immediately clear whether the special counsel found evidence of a conspiracy. QUESTIONS ABOUT OBSTRUCTION Mueller also examined whether Trump committed obstruction of justice by trying to hinder the investigation, looking into acts such as urging FBI Director James Comey to drop a probe of Flynn`s contacts with Russia, the subsequent firing of Comey, his attacks on the special counsel, dangling of pardons for former aides and the ouster of former Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Mueller`s team already has signalled the direction of the investigation through indictments and hundreds of related court filings that have offered extensive details about Russian interference in the election. Trump fired Flynn in February 2017 after it emerged he had misled Vice President Mike Pence and the FBI about his dealings with the then-Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergey Kislyak. In May 2017, he ousted Comey, whose agency had been leading the Russia investigation. Comey`s firing led the Justice Department to appoint Mueller to take over the probe. A small number of House Democrats have pushed for Congress to impeach Trump and remove him from office but the party`s leadership including Pelosi has urged caution. No president has every been removed from office via impeachment. Several House committees in the meantime are conducting aggressive investigations of Trump and people around him. The last president to be impeached by the House, Democrat Bill Clinton, was acquitted by the Senate in 1999 on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice, meaning he was not removed from office. In prosecuting Manafort, Mueller showed how the former campaign chairman made millions of dollars working for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine, while also exposing his ties to a consultant who the special counsel said was connected to Russian intelligence. Manafort in the two cases prosecuted by Mueller`s team was sentenced to 7-1/2 years in prison. The special counsel`s case against Cohen revealed that Trump was negotiating to build a skyscraper in Moscow late into the 2016 campaign, contradicting statements from Trump at the time that he had nothing to do with the Russians. The special counsel also indicted longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone, a Republican operative and a self-proclaimed political "dirty trickster." Stone is accused of telling members of Trump`s campaign that he knew in advance of plans by the WikiLeaks website to release emails damaging to Clinton that were stolen by Russia New Delhi : BDJS State President Tushar Vellappally on Saturday has put forwarded some conditions to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from constituency of Thrissur. If the reports are to be believed, Tushar had demanded for a Rajya Sabha seat, if he lose the polls. Tushar who is presently in Delhi will hold discussions with national leaders of BJP regarding the matter. He also clarified that the delay in the announcing BJP candidate for Pathanamthitta seat is not due to the delay in deciding the BDJS candidate. Thiruvananthapuram : Amid the heated reports of Rahul Gandhi's candidature from the constituency of Wayanad, CPM State Secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan has mocked that the Congress president fears huge loss in Ameti. Asserting that the LDF does not fear the candidacy of Rahul, Kodiyeri added that Congress had lost their confidence. That's why Rahul is contesting from Wayanad. he added. T Siddiqu, a former Youth Congress president, who had been named as the partys candidate has already bowed out of the race. At the event (Source: VNA) During a working session in Hanoi on March 22nd with Chairman of the Cambodian National Assemblys Commission on Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, Information and Media Chheang Vun, Giau congratulated the Cambodian parliament on successfully holding the 27th Annual Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF-27) in Siem Reap. Over the past years, the two legislatures have well implemented the cooperation agreement that they signed in April 2012, facilitated regular exchange of high-ranking delegations and worked closely together at regional and global forums to which the two legislatures are members, contributing to fostering cooperation, mutual trust and understanding. Giau suggested that the two sides should improve the efficiency of collaboration at regional and global inter-parliamentary forums for the benefit of the two countries people and for peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world, as well as share experience in the building of institutions and laws and the supervision of law enforcement. Chheang Vun, for his part, said the successful hosting of the APPF-27 is an achievement of not only Cambodia but also member legislatures. He added that the Cambodian parliament wants to learn from Vietnams experience in hosting big events and always supports Vietnams stances at parliamentary forums such as the APPF. Speaking highly of young parliamentarians role and responsibility to the people, the guest proposed strengthening their exchange to help later generations of leadership expand their vision./. Chinese President Xi Jinping (L, front) and his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella (R, front) hold talks in Rome, Italy, March 22, 2019. (Xinhua/Ju Peng) ROME, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Italian counterpart, Sergio Mattarella, held talks here Friday, and agreed to jointly push for greater development of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership in the new era. The two heads of state agreed to guide the direction of bilateral ties from a strategic height and long-term perspective. During their talks, Xi noted that both as countries with an ancient civilization, China and Italy have profound historical relations. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership, and the two countries will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations next year, Xi said. He recalled that for nearly half a century, China and Italy have respected, trusted and helped each other, enhanced high-level exchanges and strategic mutual trust, facilitated communication, cooperation and convergence of interests, and deepened mutual understanding and traditional friendship. As the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, China is willing to carry forward the spirit of cooperation with the Italian side, strengthen strategic communication, encourage the international community to seek common ground while reserving differences and promote development through cooperation, so as to contribute new wisdom and strength to building a better world, Xi said. China stands ready to join hands with Italy to firmly keep the direction of bilateral relations in the new era, carry out r high-level exchanges and upgrade the quality and level of bilateral practical cooperation, he said. Xi said he agrees with Mattarella that Italy and China should be partners with inclusive interests and common development, adding that China is willing to enhance the comprehensive strategic partnership with Italy. The two sides need to strengthen communication on visions, consolidate political mutual trust, continue to extend mutual understanding and support on issues of each other's core interests and major concerns, and strengthen communication and cooperation between their governments, legislative bodies and political parties, Xi said. He encouraged the two sides to create highlights in bilateral cooperation, jointly build the Belt and Road, and promote the synergy of their development strategies and the planning of practical cooperation. China is willing to import more high-quality products from Italy and encourage more capable Chinese enterprises to invest and start business in Italy, Xi said. He also urged the two countries to boost cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and enhance communication and cooperation in such fields as culture, education, film and television, and media, so as to consolidate the popular support for friendship between the two peoples. On China-Europe relations, Xi said his country has always supported the European integration and respected the European Union's efforts in solving its problems. Xi said he hopes that Italy will continue playing a positive role in promoting EU-China partnership for peace, growth, reform and civilization, Xi said. China is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with the Italian side on major issues such as the United Nations affairs, global governance, climate change and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, jointly promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and jointly push economic globalization in the direction of becoming more open, inclusive, balanced, win-win, and beneficial to all, he said. Mattarella warmly welcomed Xi, saying he still has a vivid memory of his visit to China in 2017. The frequent high-level exchanges between Italy and China, especially President Xi's visit this time, demonstrated the high level of bilateral relations, Mattarella said, calling China a and important partner of Italy. Italy admires China's development achievements, appreciates China's adherence to the opening-up strategy, and has confidence in the prospect of Italy-China cooperation, he said. Italy is willing to take the opportunities of the 15th anniversary of the Italy-China comprehensive strategic partnership this year and the 50th anniversary of Italy-China diplomatic relations next year to expand the mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields such as economy and trade, investment, science and technology, and innovation between the two countries, Mattarella said. Italy and China were at the two ends of the ancient Silk Road which had been a bond ly linking the two countries, Mattarella said. Italy supports Xi's initiative on jointly building the Belt and Road and believes that it will be conducive to Eurasian connectivity and common development, as well as to reviving the ancient Silk Road in modern times, Mattarella said. Calling the Belt and Road a cultural exchange road, the Italian president said his country is willing to boost communication and cooperation with China in culture and tourism. Both as countries with an ancient civilization, Mattarella said the peoples of Italy and China have wisdom to address the challenges facing human society today. Italy believes that China's rejuvenation will make new historic contributions to the world's peace and prosperity, he said, adding that Italy is committed to promoting in-depth development of EU-China ties. Italy is willing to enhance communication and coordination with China in multilateral institutions such as the UN and the Group of Twenty, jointly safeguard multilateralism and trade liberalization, and meet challenges such as climate change and international security together, Mattarella said. The two presidents held a joint press conference after the talks. Before their talks, the Italian president held a grand welcoming ceremony for Xi. The Chinese president arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of his three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. 5 1 [ Editor: Zhang Zhou ] Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella meet with representatives attending the meetings of the China-Italy Entrepreneur Committee, China-Italy Third Party Market Cooperation Forum and China-Italy Cultural Cooperation Mechanism in Rome, Italy, March 22, 2019. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) ROME, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday urged personages of business and cultural circles in China and Italy to contribute more wisdom and strength to the cooperation between the two countries. Xi made the remarks when speaking to representatives attending the meetings of the China-Italy Entrepreneur Committee, China-Italy Third Party Market Cooperation Forum and China-Italy Cultural Cooperation Mechanism, which are being held in parallel in Rome. While offering congratulations on the simultaneous convening of the three institutional meetings for the first time that showcases the China-Italy practical cooperation, Xi thanked the personages of business and cultural circles from the two countries for their long-time efforts and contributions to promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation, deepen mutual understanding between the two peoples and enhance the friendship between the two countries. Xi said that China and Italy both boast a time-honored history and highly value carrying forward their own civilization, which lay the foundation for the two countries to enjoy mutual understanding and lasting friendship. He praised the China-Italy relations as being strategic partners featuring mutual respect and trust, cooperative partners featuring mutual benefit and win-win result, and cultural exchange partners featuring mutual learning. China and Italy enjoy a solid political foundation for bilateral exchanges and cooperation, as the two sides can accommodate each other's core interests and major concerns, Xi said. The two-way trade has developed steadily and the bilateral investment has grown rapidly, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples, he said. On cultural front, the two countries have witnessed splendid exchanges, taking the lead in cultural exchanges and cooperation between China and the West, he said. "I am full of confidence in the prospect of the development of China-Italy relations," the Chinese president said. Xi noted that as next year marks the 50th anniversary of China-Italy diplomatic ties, the two sides will hold year of culture and tourism in each other's country, and they will embrace new opportunities in cooperation in various areas. China stands ready to work with all walks of life in Italy to push for a steady and long-term development of the bilateral relations on the path of mutual benefit and win-win result, and to make new contributions to boost the China-Europe connectivity and global development and prosperity at large, Xi said. "I hope that personages of business and cultural circles in China and Italy contribute more wisdom and strength in your own fields to the cooperation between our two countries," he told the representatives. Italian President Sergio Mattarella, who also spoke at the meeting with the representatives, agreed that both Italy and China are countries with an ancient civilization, which is the root of their profound relations. The two countries enjoy a traditional friendship and a long history of trade and cultural exchanges, he said, noting that under the new circumstances, the Italian government supports the business community of the two countries in deepening economic, trade and investment cooperation, and supports cultural circles in carrying out all-ranging exchanges. The two sides should work together to elevate their economic and trade cooperation to a new level, and expand cooperation on cultural Silk Road, in a bid to bring greater benefits to the two peoples, jointly respond to the challenges facing the world today, and lift the bilateral ties to a new height, he added. Xi arrived in Rome Thursday for a state visit to Italy, the first stop of Xi's three-nation Europe tour, which will also take him to Monaco and France. [ Editor: Zhang Zhou ] Li Zhanshu (2nd R), chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), meets with a delegation of the U.S.-China Working Group from the U.S. Congress in Beijing, capital of China, March 22, 2019. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) BEIJING, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Li Zhanshu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), on Friday met with a delegation of the U.S.-China Working Group from the U.S. Congress in Beijing. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the United States. Li said that history has proved that cooperation is the best choice for both China and the U.S. The two sides should promote the stable development of bilateral ties and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, Li said. He said the consensus reached by the two heads of state during their meeting in Argentina has mapped out the direction for the development of China-U.S. ties. The two sides should work together to expand cooperation on the basis of mutual benefit, control their differences on the basis of mutual respect, and actively promote the development of bilateral relations with coordination, cooperation and stability as the defining features. Hailing the contributions the U.S.-China Working Group has made in promoting exchanges between the two countries, Li said the Chinese NPC attaches great importance in strengthening exchanges with the U.S. Congress and hopes the two legislatures will pursue shared goals and contribute to deepening mutual trust and mutually beneficial cooperation. Rick Larsen and other U.S. Congressmen spoke highly of China's foreign investment law and expressed willingness to continue to play a constructive role in promoting bilateral ties. Wang Chen, vice chairperson of the Standing Committee of the NPC, also met with the delegation on Friday. 3 1 [ Editor: Zhang Zhou ] Brookhaven Lab publishes second edition of nuclear nonproliferation textbook UPTON, NY--The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory published the second edition of Deterring Nuclear Proliferation: The Importance of IAEA Safeguards. The textbook provides a history of the origins of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and an introduction to the ways in which IAEA verifies nation states' nuclear nonproliferation commitments. "This book will benefit students studying or professionals working in the field of nuclear nonproliferation, and it will give anyone entering the field a running start," said primary author and Brookhaven Lab contractor Michael Rosenthal, who formerly served as head of Brookhaven's Division of Nonproliferation and Safeguards and as a member of the Senior Executive Service within the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency. Rosenthal and the other co-authors--Leslie Fishbone, Linda Gallini, the late Allan Krass, Myron Kratzer, Jonathan Sanborn, Warren Stern, Barclay Ward, and Norman Wulf--are all experts in nuclear nonproliferation and international security. They have played key nonproliferation roles at the IAEA, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency, Brookhaven, and universities. The new edition describes important changes to the implementation of IAEA safeguards since the first edition was published in 2013. Safeguards are technical measures for verifying that states are honoring their international legal commitments to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Traditionally, the safeguards approach focused primarily on the monitoring of nuclear facilities. Today, the IAEA has adopted a state-level approach, which takes into account a state's nuclear, and nuclear-related, activities and capabilities as a whole. The second edition also chronicles the IAEA's role in implementing safeguards in Iran. The section includes a historical look at the sequence of events that culminated in the negotiation of a multilateral agreement that places strict bounds on Iran's nuclear program. The IAEA continues to verify that Iran is complying with its international and multilateral commitments to limit its nuclear program to peaceful purposes. The book has been praised by several leaders engaged in efforts to ensure the nonproliferation of nuclear weapons. "Today, policymakers and practitioners who lack basic understanding of the history, rationale, and technical details of the complex architecture of the international nuclear nonproliferation regime and the role of the IAEA safeguards system are grappling with urgent proliferation challenges with one arm tied behind their back," said Ambassador Susan Burk, former Special Representative of the President of the United States for Nuclear Nonproliferation. "Fortunately, Deterring Nuclear Proliferation: The Importance of IAEA Safeguards, fills that knowledge gap. It is a unique resource for understanding the IAEA and is a must-read for security professionals developing and implementing U.S. nuclear nonproliferation policy, and for anyone interested in understanding how the nonproliferation regime that we take for granted works to reduce nuclear dangers." According to Daryl G. Kimball, executive director of the Arms Control Association and publisher of the journal Arms Control Today, "The latest edition of Deterring Nuclear Proliferation: The Importance of IAEA Safeguards is an invaluable, comprehensive guide to the evolving nuclear safeguards system that undergirds the international nuclear nonproliferation regime. Whether you are a scholar or researcher, a diplomat, a regulator, a student, or an expert practitioner, you will find this book to be a valuable and authoritative resource." And Christian Kessler, who was a senior U.S. State Department official and nuclear expert, adjunct professor at the University of Washington and Stony Brook University, and member of the U.N. Security Council's Panel of Experts on Iran, wrote, "Deterring Nuclear Proliferation: The Importance of IAEA Safeguards examines the legal, political, and technical factors that shaped evolution of the international system to halt the spread of nuclear weapons, written by a team of experts who helped shape that evolution. Both detailed and comprehensive, it is a unique and uniquely authoritative resource for scholars, educators, and students seeking to learn how we got from Hiroshima to today." ### A pre-release version of the book is available for download as a free e-book by individuals with .gov and .edu email addresses. If you do not have a .gov or .edu email address but intend to use the book for governmental or educational purposes, please request a copy from wstern@bnl.gov. Brookhaven National Laboratory is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy. The Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit science.energy.gov. Follow @BrookhavenLab on Twitter or find us on Facebook. This story has been published on: 2019-03-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters on the South Lawn before departing from the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, March 22, 2019. Donald Trump said Friday he has "no idea" about when Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who's leading the Russia probe, will turn in his report. (Xinhua/Ting Shen) WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday he has "no idea" about when Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who's leading the Russia probe, will turn in his report. "I have no idea about the Mueller report," Trump responded on the White House lawn to the question from reporters if he expected the Mueller report to be submitted on Friday, before he left for meetings at his Florida estate. "We're going to see what happens." Those remarks were made as Washington braces for the highly-anticipated report by Mueller, whose nearly two-year investigation has focused on possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow during the 2016 presidential elections and whether the president obstructed justice. Trump on Friday continued to claim that there was neither collusion nor obstruction, calling the wide-ranging inquiry a "big hoax" and "witch hunt." The president added that Attorney General William Barr, whom he nominated late last year to replace Jeff Sessions, "ultimately will make a decision" about the report's release. The public has been speculating that the Russia probe is coming to an end after several high-profile departures from Mueller's office recently. Mueller, who was appointed by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein in May, 2017, is required to submit a report to Barr at the conclusion of his investigation. Barr, in turn, is required to notify Congress about Mueller's findings. According to the Department of Justice's special counsel regulations, the report must explain Mueller's "prosecution or declination decisions" but may not be comprehensive to lawmakers. Trump has been ramping up efforts to discredit the Mueller report widely believed to be in its final stages. "I have a deputy, appoints a man to write a report on me, to make a determination on my presidency," Trump said in an interview with Fox Business Network aired Friday morning. "People will not stand for it." Earlier this week, Trump told reporters he didn't understand why Mueller was writing a report, but that he wanted the general public to see it anyway. Mueller's team has brought charges against 34 people, including six Trump associates, and three companies. The special counsel hasn't made a direct allegation of collusion. Russia has denied any meddling in the U.S. 2016 presidential election. 6 1 [ Editor: Zhang Zhou ] Location Sciences Hires President for Americas Place data verification specialist Location Sciences has appointed former Havas exec Warren Zenna as President, Americas, based in New York. Headquartered in London, the company operates the a proprietary platform called Verify to analyze the accuracy and quality of location data used in proximity-targeted advertising; and help marketers target real and relevant mobile audiences. The business has recently gone public on the London Stock Exchange, raising $4.4m to support its North American expansion. Zenna (pictured) joins with more than twenty years' global digital marketing experience. Most recently, he worked for Havas Group's mobile unit Mobext as VP, Managing Director US; before which he was Publicis' VP, Mobile Strategy. Earlier he led new business opportunities for online buzz measurement specialist iCrossing, and he held senior roles at data-driven marketing tech firm Zeta Interactive and Nameim2 (now known as MEplusYou). In his new position, Zenna is responsible for market entrance, strategy, partnerships and growth in the US and Canada. CEO Mark Slade comments: 'Our US expansion is central to our overall business strategy and finding the right leader for this critical phase was paramount. Warren's network and his extensive knowledge of both the mobile media buying ecosystem coupled with his success in building new businesses made him the ideal fit for our US expansion efforts'. Web site: www.locationsciences.ai . The North Haven Clean Energy Task Force urges North Haven residents and businesses to support legislative and gubernatorial action to restore funding for energy efficiency and clean energy programs. What does this mean? When Connecticut residents and businesses pay their electricity and gas bills, a small portion goes to the CT Energy Efficiency Fund. This fund supports many programs that provide financial incentives to help Connecticut consumers reduce the amount of energy used in their homes and businesses. These programs include the Home Energy Solutions energy assessments, substantial rebates on insulation and high efficiency products, solar programs and savings programs for businesses and municipalities. In October 2017, the Connecticut legislature diverted $145 million of the energy funds to close the budget gap. These funds were not part of the state budget or collected through taxes but were paid by utility customers for a specific purpose. Our task force, along with the town, has worked hard to encourage residents to make their homes more energy efficient through the HES program and other programs. Using these ratepayer funds through the EnergizeCT Bright Ideas grants, we were able to offer free assessments to 300 residents in North Haven. In addition, we were able to sponsor two Solarize North Haven campaigns to help about 50 residents install solar on their homes. These funds are no longer available because they were not used for their intended purpose. Why is this important? 1. There is growing evidence that the effects of climate change are happening now and at a rate faster than previously thought. Therefore, we must all act now to reduce dependence on fossil fuels by reducing demand (energy efficiency) and using renewable energy sources. 2. Making our homes and businesses more energy efficient through programs like HES and others reduces the need now for fossil fuel burning power plants the cleanest and cheapest energy is the energy you dont consume in the first place. 3. Residents and businesses can save lots of money by having a HES assessment up to 30 percent. 4. Energy Efficiency and clean energy is good for the economy over 34,000 people work in Connecticuts energy efficiency industry, and another 2,000 work in the solar industry. Therefore, it is important that citizens contact the Governors office and our local state representatives to urge that our ratepayer funds are restored. Submitted by the North Haven Clean Energy Task Force The Kampong Speu provincial Trade Fair 2019, held 60 km south-west of Phnom Penh, features nearly 100 booths run by Cambodian, Vietnamese and Thai businesses. Representing Vietnam to participate in the fair this year, roughly 10 enterprises from the Mekong Delta province of Vinh Long are introducing their high-quality products to local consumers, including textiles and garments, handicrafts, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, agricultural materials and plant varieties. Speaking to Nhan Dan Newspapers correspondents in Cambodia, Deputy Head of Vinh Long provincial Industry and Trade Department, Nguyen Van Con, said that this is the fifth time Vinh Long enterprises has attended Kampong Speu province's annual trade fair, aiming to promote their goods and expand markets to facilitate business growth. The activity also aims to strengthen and develop the traditional solidarity relationship between the twinned localities, he added. Governor of Kampong Speu province, Vy Som Nang, affirmed that the participation of enterprises from Vinh Long province is a specific expression of the traditional solidarity and friendship between the authorities and the people of both locales. He also hailed Vietnamese businesses for bringing a variety of goods to the fair, helping local consumers to access quality goods produced in Vietnam. Held from March 21 to 25, the Kampong Speu annual trade fair offers a good opportunity for Cambodian businesses and their peers from neighbouring countries to strengthen cooperation and promote their products to consumers. International British premier may not seek vote on Brexit deal this week LONDON, MAR 23 (AP) | Publish Date: 3/23/2019 12:31:39 PM IST British Prime Minister Theresa May has told lawmakers she may not seek passage of her troubled Brexit withdrawal plan in Parliament next week. The embattled leader, who faces a major protest march in central London on Saturday, wrote to lawmakers Friday night saying she would bring the European Union withdrawal back to Parliament if there seems to be enough backing for it to pass. If it appears that there is not sufficient support to bring the deal back next week, or the House rejects it again, we can ask for another extension before 12 April, but that will involve holding European Parliament elections, she said. Mays changing stance reflects the plans dismal chances in the House of Commons after two prior defeats. She also says she would need the approval of House Speaker John Bercow to bring the plan back for a third time despite his objections. Bercow has said a third vote would violate parliamentary rules unless the plan is altered. May said in her letter to lawmakers that if the deal is approved, Britain will leave the EU on May 22, a date agreed with EU officials. Lawmakers have twice rejected the deal and havent shown any clear swing toward endorsing it in recent days. Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union on April 12 if no deal is approved. Pro-Brexit forces are also girding for the possible political impact of a planned march in central London in support of holding a second referendum that would give British voters the option of remaining in the EU despite the 2016 vote in favor of leaving. The organisers of the Peoples Vote March predict that one of Britains largest-ever protest marches will grip central London. More than 4 million people endorsed an electronic petition this week in favor of revoking Article 50, the act that formally triggered the Brexit process. The march will conclude outside Parliament, which remains divided over Brexit. No consensus on a way forward has emerged despite weeks of extensive debate. National Yasin led JKLF banned for promoting terror, secessionism Yasin Malik (File) New Delhi, Mar 22 (IANS) | Publish Date: 3/22/2019 12:57:14 PM IST The Indian government on Friday outlawed the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) led by Muhammad Yasin Malik, alleging it was responsible for promoting terrorism and secessionism in the state. Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said that in pursuit of its strong action against terrorism, the government had declared the JKLF (Yasin faction), which supposedly advocates independence for Jammu and Kashmir, an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Malik is presently detained in Kot Balwal Jail in Jammu. The JKLF has spearheaded the separatist ideology in the (Kashmir) Valley and has been at the forefront of separatist activities and violence since 1988, Gauba told the media here. Yasin Malik was the mastermind behind the purging of Kashmiri Pundits from the Kashmir Valley and is responsible for their genocide, a Home Ministry notification said. The JKLF was also blamed for the murder of four Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel and the abduction of Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of then Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed who later became the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. The organisation, along side, is also responsible for illegal funnelling of funds for fomenting terrorism. JKFL is actively involved in raising of funds and its distribution to Hurriyat cadres and stone-pelters to fuel unrest in the Kashmir Valley as well as for subversive activities, the notification said. The official said that JKLF cadres posed a serious threat to the security of the country and are prejudicial to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of India. The organisation has been actively and continuously encouraging feeling of enmity and hatred against the lawfully established government and promoting armed rebellion. Noting that the Jammu and Kashmir Police had filed 37 FIRs against the JKLF and the NIA had also registered a case, it is evident that the JKLF continued to be actively engaged in supporting and inciting secessionism and terrorism including terror financing. The JKLF is the second group to be banned in recent times in the Kashmir Valley after the Jamaat-e-Islami (J&k), which the government said was responsible for the formation of Hizbul Mujahideen, the biggest terror organisation active in Jammu and Kashmir. The Jamaat-e-Islami (J&K) was accused of providing all kinds of support to Hizbul Mujahideen in terms of recruits, funding, shelter and logistics. The notification, however, made it clear that the Jamaat-e-Islami (J&K) is separate from the larger and pan-India Jamaat-e-Islami Hind. Mehbooba Mufti objects ban on JKLF The ban on the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) will turn the state into an open air prison, former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said on Friday. Reacting to the central governments ban, Mehbooba Mufti tweeted: Yasin Malik renounced violence as a way of resolving the J&K issue a long time ago. He was treated as a stakeholder in a dialogue initiated by then PM (Atal Bihari) Vajpayeeji. What will a ban on his organisation achieve? Detrimental steps like these will only turn Kashmir into an open air prison. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Budget carrier SpiceJet is holding discussions with lessors globally to induct aircraft in its fleet to fill the gap which had formed after it grounded 12 Boeing 737 MAX 8 planes post the Ethiopian Airlines crash. Share prices of SpiceJet gained as much as 14.24 per cent to Rs 104.70 and closed at 7.04 per cent higher to Rs 98.10 compared to the previous close of Rs 91.65. Earlier this week, there were reports that SpiceJet is in talk with lessors of crisis-hit Jet Airways to induct its Boeing planes. Jet Airways has so far grounded two-thirds (about 80 planes) of its fleet over non-payment of dues to lessors. Bloomberg had reported the government sent out a proposal that SpiceJet could acquire as many as 40 of Jet Airways grounded planes which are owned by lessors. Other reports said aircraft lessors and SpiceJet struck a deal, and it is now only a matter of time that the grounded planes will be delivered to SpiceJet. For passengers, the acquisition of Jets planes by SpiceJet or by any other way in which aircraft count is increased will be a welcome move. It will bridge the gap between the rising demand for air travel and short supply of flight, boosting competition and thereby keeping fares in check Since the suspension of SpiceJets 12 Boeing planes and grounding of numerous Jet Airways aircraft, there has been a significant rise in airfares and flights getting cancelled. Like aircraft, other airlines are trying to poach Jet pilots who gave an ultimatum to the debt-laden company to clear their pending salaries by March end, failing which they would stop flying from April 1. Reports suggest IndiGo is offering jobs to Jet pilots along with compensation for overdue salaries that is with Jet and other perks. The Vietnamese booth near the booths of Cuba, Chile, and Spain, co-organised by Thanh Binh Jeune Company a company that specialises in selling imported goods from Vietnam, and Chef Lam Thanh Kim, who was born and raised in France. The booth introduced Vietnamese foods such as Ben Tre fresh coconut, fresh sugarcane juice, Nutifood coffee, and Hanoi beer, to French and international friends. Vietnamese Ambassador to France Nguyen Thiep (second from right) visited the Vietnamese booth. Chef Lam Thanh Kim said that cooking Vietnamese dishes is his hobby and important passion. I want to introduce Vietnamese cuisine at the "International Cuisine Village" because Vietnamese cuisine is not only famous in France but also around the world. At the event, he introduced specialties of Vietnams three northern, central and southern regions such as bun cha (noodles with grilled pork), nem cuon (spring rolls), goi cuon (rolled shrimp and pork salad), bun bo (beef noodle), my van than (wonton noodles), which are famous Vietnamese foods among the French. Chef Lam Thanh Kim introduced nem cuon (spring rolls) to the journalist and culinary expert Eric Fauguet. "International Cuisine Village" is taking place at the famous tourist destination in Paris and is an opportunity for French people and international visitors to explore diverse cuisine culture. The Philippines pavilion. According to gastronomic expert Eric Fauguet he is "very knowledgeable" on Vietnamese dishes. For him, Vietnamese cuisine is very rich, fresh, low in fat and delicious. Spains space with salt pork thighs. Under the framework of the "International Gastronomy Village", many activities such as concerts, cooking classes, and performances by famous chefs such as Eric Briffard, Gregory Cohen, Ghislaine Arabian, and Thierry Charrier, were organised. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: The Bank of Baroda, which will be merged with Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank, is likely to get Rs 5,000 crore capital infusion from the government this week. The capital will be assigned from the budgetary allocation that the government has already done. The government had already announced to support Bank of Baroda ahead of the merger. So, this week, it will infuse Rs 5,000 crore out of the budgetary allocation, a senior official from the Department of Financial Services told TNIE. After the infusion, the government will meet the recapitalisation targets it had set for this financial year. So far, it has pumped Rs 1.90 lakh crore into PSBs after announcing the recapitalisation plan in October 2017. While the government had earlier announced an infusion of Rs 65,000 crore in PSBs for the financial year 2018-19, it had sought Parliaments approval in December to infuse an additional Rs 41,000 crore in state-owned banks. On February 20, the government had infused Rs 48,239 crore in 12 public sector banks but it had skipped Bank of Baroda. Financial Service Secretary Rajiv Kumar had specified that the pending Rs 5,000 crore may be used for any contingency or for growth capital in banks, including amalgamated entity of Bank of Baroda if it requires. As per the officials, the fresh infusion will help in absorbing the Non-Performing Asset (NPA) of Dena Bank. The merger will create Indias third-largest bank with a total business of over Rs 14.82 lakh crore. When the three banks are merged, the combined entitys capital adequacy ratio will be at 12.25 per cent, with tier-1 capital at 9.32 per cent and net NPAs at 5.71 per cent. The merged entity will have nearly 9,500 branches. Bank of Baroda, Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank have about 85,600 employees between them. By Express News Service BENGALURU: App-based cab aggregator Ola has been banned for six months in Karnataka for operating bike taxis in violation of licence conditions and flouting government rules. The Bengaluru-based company termed the notification unfortunate and said it would evaluate all options to find an amicable solution. Ola did not give a satisfactory answer as to how it had launched bike-taxi services in the city recently without a licence, officials of the transport department said. The dept. summoned ANI Technologies Pvt Ltd to demand a clarification within seven days on 5th March. However, the submission of the aggregator was not justified and satisfactory, under which the existing licence of the app-based aggregator will be suspended for a period of six months and suspension of operations with immediate effect, the suspension order said. Earlier this year, transport officials cracked down on companies operating bike-taxis. While the government has expressed interest in framing rules governing bike taxis, there has been no development so far. By Express News Service BENGALURU: The Karnataka High Court on Friday stayed the state government's proposal to demolish Asiatic Building, which houses Janatha Bazaar in Kempe Gowda Road in the city. Hearing the petition filed by the Indian National Trust for Architectural and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), a division bench of Acting Chief Justice L Narayana Swamy and Justice P S Dinesh Kumar passed the interim order of stay for the proposed demolition. INTACH, who sought directions to the state government to preserve Janatha Bazaar as a heritage building, stated that it was inaugurated on September 11, 1935 by erstwhile Yuvaraja of the State of Mysore, Sri Kantirava Narasimharaja Wodeyar, to house the Asiatic Company. Upon expiry of the tenancy agreement between the PWD and the occupants of the Asiatic Building in 2014, PWD did not renew the agreement and issued eviction notices asking occupants to vacate the building. In the said notice, the Chief Engineer of the PWD made a proposal to the Principal Secretary of the department, proposing to build a 14-floor commercial complex and multi-storey parking complex in place of the building. By Express News Service BENGALURU: Cubbon Park police are probing a case against actor Prakash Raj for allegedly violating the model code of conduct. The cops on Saturday verified video footage to see if he had asked for votes during a public event. Raj who is contesting from Bengaluru Central as an Independent candidate had used a microphone at a public meeting near Mahatma Gandhi Circle on MG Road on March 12. Several writers, artists and activists who attended the programme claimed that the actor began to canvas for votes. D Murthy, an officer with the flying squad told TNIE: "I was informed about the event three hours after it concluded and some of the attendees had made a video recording of Raj and sent it to senior officers of the Election Commission. Then I rushed to the police station and filed a case. Initially, the police took NCR (Non-Cognizable Report) and on March 19, the police filed a FIR based on court order." A Cubbon Park police officer said, "We already verified the video footage and found Raj was not canvassing for votes. However, we have booked two of the organisers Praveen K. and Abhilash C.S. for not taking permission from the police when the event was held and action will be taken against them." The programme was organised under the banner, Media and Freedom of Expression, and was not a political event, Prakash Raj told the police. Harish Murali By Express News Service CHENNAI: The landmark heritage building of the Egmore Metropolitan Magistrate Court will soon sport a fresh look. The renovation of the building, which is, at least, a century-old and built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture during the British rule, is in final stages after two years of hardwork by artisans. Built with grand arches, timber staircases and deep rosewood for the doors and windows that have lost their charm as the grime slowly took over, the Egmore court is possibly one of the oldest courts in the city. This was one of busiest campuses in the city with several courts functioning in this two-storeyed structure that comprises, at least, 15-18 rooms with a total area of 18,000 square feet. In August 2015, the courts were temporarily shifted to Allikulam for renovation of the heritage structure and in December last, the courts were again shifted to a new five-storey building in the same compound. According to historian V Sriram, the building is, at least, over a century old and the first building in the place was actually meant for the Presidency College. He said that in 1841, a preparatory school was constructed in this place for the Presidency College where classes took place. The place was called De Monte House until a permanent campus of the Presidency College was constructed in 1855 located on the Beach Road, he added. However, in 1916 three Municipal Magistrate Courts was established in the city by the British each at Egmore, Saidapet and Georgetown and these buildings were still functional. A senior official in the Public Works Department, which is carrying out the work, said the renovation was being carried out in consultation with the National Centre for Safety of Heritage Structures. The workers on the court premises located at Adhithanar Salai giving last touches with precision say that most of the raw materials procured are all retained in order to provide the same glory. A contractor involved in the renovation said that artisans skilled in restoring heritage buildings in districts such as Virudhunagar and Sivagangai have been brought in to carry out the work that began like a year ago. The wood, hand-made tiles and the roof were all prepared exclusively for the building to retain its old glory, said a PWD official. Toby Antony By Express News Service KOCHI: Kerala tourism is springing back to life, thanks to a steady stream of tourists from China. But, the trend has made the intelligence agencies wary of possible espionage activities, considering the sensitive establishments located in Kochi. Coastal security agencies, including the police, have been directed by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) to take measures to prevent Chinese spies posing as tourists, engaging in intelligence gathering activities in Kochi. It was in February that an intelligence alert was given to all the security and enforcement agencies stationed in Kochi, including SBCID (state intelligence), Customs, CBI, NIA and local police about the intelligence gathering by Chinese spies posing as tourists in Kochi. Though police officials refused to comment on the matter, an officer with SBCID claimed the alert was given considering the fact that indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant is under construction in Kochi. "There is no restriction for Chinese tourist coming in Kerala. They can move around like other foreign nationals. The alert is given only to monitor any possible intelligence-gathering activity. Already, a high-level security arrangement is maintained by national agencies at Shipyard where Vikrant is currently under work," he said. In recent years, China is flexing muscles to increase its influence in the Indian Ocean. China and India are the two Asian countries having a significant presence in the Indian Ocean and countries which actively operate aircraft carriers. Other Asian countries with aircraft carriers are Japan and Thailand. However, Japan's aircraft carriers only operate helicopters and Thailand carrier has limited capabilities. In 2017, as many as 7,113 tourists from China visited Kerala in which 4,328 came to Kochi. In the year 2018, the number of tourist from China increased by 35 per cent and their number rose to close to 10,000. Abraham George, member, National Tourism Advisory Council, said China is one of the largest tourism markets in the world. However, Kerala and India face certain issues that prevent Chinese travellers preferring India over other Asian countries. "Connectivity is one major issue we face in Kerala. There is no direct flight from airports in Kerala to China. Another major issue we face is the lack of guides who know the Chinese language. In recent year, Sri Lanka tourism industry thrives of Chinese travellers," he said. According to him, due to severed ties between India and China, the visa procedures for Chinese traveller to come to India is long. "Due to security issues, Chinese travellers are quizzed at immigration points in airports. Same happens to Indian travellers going to China. If all these barriers are opened, Kerala tourism can greatly benefit from China tourists footfall," he said. By IANS NEW DELHI: Going beyond the usual formulated tales of boy meeting girl, falling in love and running around trees - Indian filmmakers are now taking a step forward focusing on crime scenes and bringing them alive on screens. Filmmakers are researching and are taking extra measures to tell the stories through films such as "India's Most Wanted" or one of the most heinous crimes -- Delhi gang rape -- titled "Delhi Crime". Here are some of them, listed by IANS: Ashameera Aiyappan By Express News Service How often do you watch a film a day after the lead actor files a complaint against the director, claiming that he only shot for five days? Or find that the same actor has filed a petition asking for a stay order on his film? The director, in defense, argues that it was the actor who didnt cooperate and walked out after finishing most of the movie. Irukaradhu vechu mudichom, were the words he used and that shows on screen, disturbingly so. WATCH TRAILER: Im not just talking about the two action sequences where a body double has obviously been used. There are several inexplicable things about Agni Devi. Let me just stick to the ones on screen. For example, Agni Dev (Bobby Simha) deduces that a man and a woman are not siblings because he found contraception in the house. So the presence of a condom automatically indicates that they are having sex with each other? If that seems complicated, take this: why does Assistant Commissioner Agni Dev drive around in a jeep that has Nat Geos symbol? The film starts off saying that it is an adaptation of a Rajesh Kumar novel. Which one? We dont know. Agni Devi doesnt even get the basics right, let alone the nuances. In little over an hour and a half, the film goes from being a whodunnit to a political drama to a social story to a revenge saga, with juvenile crime thrown in for effect. At the end of those 100 minutes, I truly understood what scientists mean when they say time is relative, something that years of education didnt help me understand. I could have sworn I was in that theatre for a hundred hours at least. The performances further aggravate our already tired brains. On the one hand, you have Bobby Simha whose reactions range from scowling at something to.. scowling at someone. And on the other, you have Madhoo who hams to high heaven as the evil, ruthless politician. Of course she needs to hate men and have a love for paan how else can women politicians function? There is a scene or two thrown in at times to prod our tear glands an innocent man is brutally beaten, a witness is poisoned to horrifying effect. And right on cue, we have Jakes Bejoy bringing out the melodramatic music, trying hard to make us feel something. But it does not work. Nothing really does. There are films that infuriate you, ones that irritate. But Agni Devi pushed me into a zone of indifference. I couldnt bring myself to even hate or mock it with a vengeance. All I could do was just wonder how the movie got made in the first place. By IANS 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 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. By IANS NEW YORK: People with diabetes who undergo joint replacement surgery are at higher risk of experiencing elevated blood sugar levels after the operation, increasing their chances of developing infections and other complications, a new study suggested. Patients with insulin-dependent diabetes were more than five times as likely as those without the condition to develop hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, after surgery, said researchers, including Bradford Waddell from the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in the US. "If your patient comes in with diabetes and is dependent on insulin, you need to be more cognizant of controlling their blood sugar in the perioperative period because they're at higher risk," said Waddell. For the study, presented at the 2019 annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the team reviewed medical charts of 773 men and women who had undergone total hip or knee replacement surgeries between 2011 and 2016. Of those, 437 had insulin-dependent diabetes, while 336 had not the condition. It included patients with a diagnosis of diabetes whose blood sugar was being controlled using the hormone insulin and compared them with diabetics who did not require insulin. Patients requiring insulin can be considered to have more severe diabetes and have a greater chance of experiencing elevated blood glucose in the perioperative period, Waddell said. Patients with higher blood glucose over the previous three months -- as measured by Hemoglobin A1c -- were more likely to experience post-operative hyperglycemia regardless of which group they were in. Hemoglobin A1c above 6.59 for people with insulin-dependent diabetes and 6.6 without the condition was associated with an elevated risk for post-operative hyperglycemia. However, despite the increased risk for elevation in blood sugar after surgery, the incidence of post-operative joint infections did not differ between the two groups of patients. The author also noted that a limitation of the study was that it was underpowered to detect the risk of infection. He affirmed that Vietnam values developing the strategic partnership with Singapore, which is among its leading partners in ASEAN and in the region, suggesting that the sides hold regular high-level visits, exchanges and meetings. Deputy PM Binh praised the guests contributions to boosting the Vietnam Singapore strategic partnership in politics, diplomacy, security-defence, trade, economics, and people-to-people exchanges. He said the partnership has grown toward practical outcomes in recent years, with the politics-diplomacy ties deepened based on trust and the maintenance of exchange of visits across all levels and all channels. Cooperation in defence- security has been deepened, while that in culture, science-technology, and education has recorded positive progress. Bilateral trade hit US$7.66 billion last year, making Singapore the 4th biggest trade partner of Vietnam in ASEAN. The country was also the 3rd largest foreign investor in Vietnam with a total capital of US$48 billion. The Vietnam Singapore industrial parks in Vietnam have showed effective operations, creating jobs for locals and bringing mutual benefits to both countries. In term of multilateral relations, the two countries shared similarities in their views on strategic security issues. Both valued the promotion of solidarity, self-reliance, and ASEANs central role in the evolving regional architecture. They prioritised boosting connectivity, narrowing development gaps, and strengthening collaboration regarding the East Sea issue. They have worked closely together at ASEAN and UN forums. The Singaporean Deputy PM said his visit aims to bolster bilateral ties. He took the occasion to congratulate Vietnam on its successful hosting of the second summit between the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea and the US. He said both countries have faith in developing a strong ASEAN Community and expanding the partnership beyond the bloc. He expressed his hope that Vietnam will have a successful ASEAN Chair next year. At the talks, the sides reviewed their past cooperation and discussed in depth bilateral collaboration in trade, investment, environmental protection, justice, cyber security, anti-corruption, fire prevention, and anti-drug crime. Namita Bajpai By Express News Service LUCKNOW: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said that though the sacrifices of armed forces should not be questioned, even the government should also "stop pretending to be the Indian Army". Launching a scathing attack at PM Narendra Modi for targeting rival parties over raising fingers at Pulwama attack and the subsequent IAF strike in Pakistan, the SP chief claimed it was the 'fundamental right' to ask questions to keep the essence of democracy alive. "Politicians who say they cannot be questioned are dangerous," he said. Yadav's remarks assume significance in the light of his party leader and Rajya Sabha member Ram Gopal Yadav's statement that Modi government hatched the Pulwama conspiracy and got so many jawans killed just to muster votes. Ram Gopal happens to be Akhilesh's cousin uncle and his statement drew widespread criticism. On Thursday, referring to the Pulwama attack, Ram Gopal had said: "This was a conspiracy... But, when there will be a change of government, investigations will be done and prominent people will come under the scanner, who had pushed our youth to death to garner votes." Training guns at Ram Gopal, Modi termed the Opposition "the natural habitat of terror apologists." Calling it a reprehensible remark, PM Modi tweeted: "Opposition is the natural habitat of terror apologists and questioners of our armed forces. This reprehensible statement by a senior leader like Ram Gopal Ji insults all those who have given their lives in protecting Kashmir. It humiliates the families of our martyrs." In a series of tweets, the PM also slammed Congress' Sam Pitroda for saying he wanted to "know more" about the Balakot strike and asking as to how many terrorists were killed in the operation. However, Akhilesh Yadav's tweet came an hour after that of PM's. Meanwhile, CM Yogi Adityanath was joined by a number of BJP leaders in condemning the SP leader's diatribe. CM Yogi said Ram Gopal Yadav's comments were "big example of dirty politics" and an "attempt to demoralise" security forces. "He has questioned the sacrifices made by CRPF jawans. He must apologise for these comments." By Express News Service NEW DELHI: In a surprise move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan conveying his greetings on the eve of its National Day. The news was broken by Imran, who tweeted Modis message, I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence. This is a significant development as it comes at a time when relations between the two countries are at an all-time low, following the Pulwama terror attack. Received msg from PM Modi: "I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence" Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 22, 2019 Welcoming Modis gesture, Khan said, I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir. Earlier, Pakistani envoy Sohail Mahmood, in an address at the reception here, said Pakistan and India need to consolidate the process of de-escalation and stabilise the ties against further shocks, hoping that the "long winter" in bilateral relations would come to an early end. He said both the countries should act with "wisdom" to normalise ties, asserting that "coercive measures" have not worked in the past and will not work in the future. ALSO READ | India won't send any representative to Pakistan National Day: MEA The envoy said a key takeaway from recent developments was that a lack of engagement creates "dangerous vacuum and serious risks" for relations between the two neighbours, adding Pakistan has "turned a corner" in its fight against the scourge of terrorism. However, the MEA sought to underplay it, saying, The PM sends a customary message on National Day to other Heads of State or Government. His message to Imran highlighted the importance of a terror-free South Asia. With the MEA deciding to boycott the event at the Pakistan mission in Delhi on Friday, an unnamed official appealed to the conscience of the guests, reminding them about Indias official line. Different strokes While PM greeted Pakistan, the foreign office in India boycotted the National Day celebrations at the Pak High Commission in New Delhi to protest its invite to Hurriyat leaders. Pakistan Day is celebrated to mark the Lahore Resolution on March 23 each year. The Lahore Resolution, which is also called Pakistan Resolution, passed on March 23, 1940, is considered a major milestone in the Muslim struggle for an independent Muslim state which was later called Pakistan. ALSO READ | India bans Yasin Malik's JKLF as Pakistan invites separatists to National Day event (With inputs from online desk) By Online Desk Former Maharashtra chief minister and state Congress chief Ashok Chavan has hinted that he may quit his post after a controversy broke out over the party candidate for the Chandrapur Lok Sabha seat. In a leaked audio clip, Chavan expressed his displeasure over the party decision to field Vishal Muttemwar for the Chandrapur Lok Sabha seat and also said that no one is listening to him. The Congress on Friday postponed the announcement of its Chandrapur nominee following the row over the name of Vishal, son of ex-Nagpur MP Vilas Muttemwar, for the seat. "I tried to explain too. I am also planning to resign," he is heard saying in the audio tape. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Speaking to a news channel, the state Congress chief said it was a private conversation and he did not want to make it public. "It is an internal matter. The person talking to me is a party worker and it is my responsibility to keep his morale high," he said. "I have informed the high command about the differences over the Chandrapur seat," he further said. The Congress on Friday released a list of 35 candidates including five from Maharashtra. However, the party has not yet declared its candidate for Nanded Lok Sabha constituency which is represented by Chavan. By Express News Service BHOPAL: Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh will be the Congress candidate from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, which has been a BJP bastion since 1989. The MP Chief Minister and State Congress Committee chief Kamal Nath confirmed on Saturday that Singh will contest from Bhopal, which goes to poll in the sixth phase (third phase of MP) on May 12 along with seven other seats of Gwalior-Chambal and Central MP. Digvijaya Singh has been a state party president and states CM for many years, but still he wanted to contest from Rajgarh seat (his home constituency). It doesnt befit his persona and political experience. I instead requested and offered him to consider contesting from any of three tough seats, Bhopal, Indore or Jabalpur, said Nath while interacting with journalists in Bhopal on Saturday. Digvijaya took his time and thought over my request, but later asked me, where should he contest from. I told him that he should contest from Bhopal, which he has agreed to, said Nath. Now you have a strong candidate from Bhopal, we should cooperate with him, said Nath amid a bout of laughter at the post Holi lunch with journalists. When queried as to whether Singh was happy over contesting from Bhopal, Nath said, you should ask him about it, but Im happy with it. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE However, when queried by journalists about when the final list of the remaining 28 candidates for MP will be declared, Nath smiled saying, Ive the list in my pocket. However, as per key sources in the state Congress, most of the candidates for the remaining 28 seats will be declared within a day or two. Aged 72, Singh, who was the MP CM from 1993 to 2003 had reportedly taken self-imposed exile from electoral politics after the Congress lost the 2003 assembly polls in MP to Uma Bharti-led BJP. Singh has contested three Lok Sabha polls so far from Rajgarh seat of Central MP, winning in 1984 and 1991, but losing to BJPs Pyarelal Khandelwal in 1989. His brother Laxman Singh too has represented Rajgarh seat four times, including 2004 as a BJP MP. The Rajgarh seat houses Singh familys pocket-borough, the Raghogarh assembly seat, which is presently represented by Singhs MP minister son Jaivardhan Singh. The Bhopal seat, on the other hand, has been a BJP bastion since 1989 and the notable winners from the seat, include Sushil Chandra Verma (1989, 1991, 1996 and 1998) ex-CM Uma Bharti (1999), ex-CM Kailash Joshi (2004 and 2009). The same seat was won by Congress stalwart Shankar Dayal Sharma (who became Indias Ninth President in 1992) in 1971 and 1980. KN Pradhan was the last Congressman to win the seat in 1984. Presently, out of the eight assembly segments of Bhopal and Sehore district that form Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency, five are represented by BJP legislators, while three were won by Congress, which include old Digvijaya Singhs confidants, PC Sharma and Arif Aqeel (both cabinet ministers in Kamal Nath government). Importantly, political watchers were keenly eyeing developments about which seat will Singh contest Lok Sabha polls from. The CM had recently said in Chhindwara that he personally didnt want Singh to contest from any safe seat but instead wished that Singh fought from any of the seats, which the Congress hasnt won for long. Naths standpoint was endorsed by former union minister and Guna MP Jyotiraditya Scindia, who too had said that senior leaders should contest from tough seats. Singh had subsequently tweeted saying, Im habitual of taking up challenges, but the final decision about which seat Ill contest from will be taken by my leader and Congress president Rahul Gandhi. While the MP CM has announced Singhs name from Bhopal (presently represented by BJPs Alok Sanjar), it remains to be seen who will be fielded by BJP from the seat. Several names have been doing rounds of BJP circles, including present MP Alok Sanjar, Bhopal mayor Alok Sharma, state party general secretary VD Sharma, ex-MLA Dhruv Narayan Singh and ex-MLA and former MP minister Umashankar Gupta. But now following the new development, some other names, including ex-CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan, former CM and home minister Babulal Gaur and even Malegaon blast accused firebrand saffron leader Pragya Singh Thakur have started doing rounds of BJP circles as well as social media. Prasanta Mazumdar By Express News Service GUWAHATI: The BJPs face in the Northeast, Himanta Biswa Sarma, will not be in the Lok Sabha poll fray as the partys central leadership wants him to continue to work towards making the party stronger in the region. BJP president Amit Shah on Friday cited the reasons why the partys central leadership is averse to Sarma contesting the polls. The BJPs Assam election committee and the workers of the party had unanimously recommended the name of Himanta Biswa Sarma as a candidate for the Lok Sabha elections. However, in order to ensure that he can continue to serve as the chairman of (non-Congress) North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) for the development of the Northeast and for better coordination between the party and the government, the BJPs central leadership decided that he remains in Assam and keeps fulfilling his responsibilities as a minister and the NEDA chairman to strengthen the party further in Assam and the Northeast, Shah tweeted. Sarma accepted the decision. He tweeted, I am grateful that our party president Amit Shah Ji has reposed faith and trust in me. I consider this as a big recognition and will not forget this for the rest of my life. I accept his decision. The BJPs state leadership had recommended the name of Sarma for the prestigious Tezpur seat. When sitting MP Ram Prasad Sarmah, also of the BJP, got a whiff of it, he sought to resign but it was not accepted by the party. With Sarma out of poll fray, the chances of the sitting MP getting the ticket have now brightened. Tezpur is considered as the safest constituency for the BJP. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE 3 sittings MPs excluded from list Three Assam MPs fell out of the BJPs favour, as the party announced its first list of candidates for Lok Sabha elections. BJP will contest 10 of Assams 14 Lok Sabha seats following its pre-poll alliance with regional forces Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF). The BJPs first list featured names of candidates for 8 seats. The candidates fielded are Queen Ojha (Guwahati), Kripanath Malla (Karimganj), Rajdeep Roy (Silchar), Harensingh Bey (Diphu), Dilip Saikia (Mangaldoi), Tapan Gogoi (Jorhat), Rameswar Teli (Dibrugarh) and Pradan Baruah (Lakhimpur). Teli and Baruah are sitting MPs. The three MPs snubbed are Bijoya Chakraborty (Guwahati), Kamakhya Prasad Tassa (Jorhat) and Ramen Deka (Mangaldoi). Age seems to have gone against 79-year-old Chakraborty, the sitting MP from Guwahati. According to BJP insiders, Tassa was not fielded as he had allegedly remained aloof from voters in the past five years. Party leaders wanted an Ahom face in Jorhat, which Tassa represents. Alisha Rahaman Sarkar By Online Desk The Supreme Court of India stood out in 2018 for several landmark verdicts which included decriminalising homosexuality (certain provisions of 377 were struck down), decriminalising adultery and allowing women's entry into Sabarimala. Although, these verdicts touched upon the "transformative" part of the Constitution, advocate and author Gautam Bhatia argues not only colonial laws, but also post-independence laws that conflict with fundamental rights need to be revoked. In his book "the Transformative Constitution", Bhatia contends that contrary to conventional wisdom the Constitution is an evolving document which must evolve constantly to keep pace with the times. Bhatia, a strong critic of Aadhaar, explores the principle of equality, fraternity and liberty through nine "radical" judgments. In an exclusive interview, he speaks about Aadhaar, Supreme Court, sedition and women's participation in the legal system. Would you like to elaborate for our readers what you mean by the term "Transformative Constitution"? By a Transformative Constitution, I mean a Constitution that set out to transform not merely the political structure (by transferring political power from an alien, colonial regime to an elected government of the people), but also to transform oppressive social practices centred around caste, gender, and religion. A Constitution that set out also to democratise the relationships between individuals and social groups, as well as between individuals themselves. You have reiterated that the Courts over the last seven decades have failed on multiple occasions to fulfil the Constitutions transformative promise. Will you say that in the wake of recent landmark judgements things are getting better? Some recent judgments such as Section 377, the decriminalisation of adultery, and the Sabarimala judgment that specifically invoke transformative constitutionalism give cause to hope. At the same time, judgments such as Aadhaar, or the recent proliferation of sealed covers in high-stakes cases, suggest more of the same old story. In your book you wrote, The Constitution is treated as an evolving document, with judges bearing the responsibility of updating it. Are you happy with the interventions? What more can be done in your opinion? Its important to note that the updation Im talking about is not about judges applying their own personal sense of right or wrong, or contemporary morals; the updation refers to excavating the core values of the Constitution and applying them to an always-changing world. For example, the Constitution is committed to pluralism and tolerance for different ways of life, values that stem from Articles 14 (equality), 15 (non-discrimination), and so on. When you understand these underlying values, it is easy to see how criminalising same-sex relations violate the guarantees of equality and non-discrimination, as understood in the light of these values. So, even though the Constitution makes no specific mention of sexual orientation - because the issue simply wasnt in the mind of the framers - the Court can legitimately hold that criminalising same-sex relations is ruled out by the Constitution. You have also documented the need to repeal colonial laws that contravene with fundamental rights. Parts of Section 377 have now been struck down. What other colonial-era relics should be repealed and why? The issue is not only colonial laws, but also post-independence laws that have been framed directly along the lines of colonial laws. The most glaring example of this which I discuss in the book is national security legislation such as the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), the National Security Act (NSA), the Goonda Acts, and so on. These laws heavily stack the deck against an accused individual, and guarantee that they will spend long years in jail before their trial is even completed. You have been critical about article 19(2) in your book. Will you say that the Narendra Modi government has abused the Sedition law? Every government has abused the law of sedition, something that has been enabled by the Supreme Court choosing to uphold it in 1962. As Aadhaar raises questions on state surveillance, how safe are we as digital citizens? In the absence of strong data protection legislation a lacuna that the Supreme Court has pointed out on more than one occasion we remain vulnerable both to State surveillance, as well as commercial exploitation of data. At present, what pending/ ongoing cases are you looking forward to? Recently, a case was filed challenging the provision of the restitution of conjugal rights, which is something Ive discussed at length in the book, while talking about democratising family relations. It will be interesting to see if the Court reconsiders its original judgment from 1983 that upheld it. Theres also an ongoing case in the Hyderabad High Court against the large-scale deletion of voters from the electoral rolls, by using Aadhaar. Among other things, it demands that the software used for these deletions be made public. This is a very crucial case for the future of our democracy, and Im watching it keenly. The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, introduced in January 2018, failed to get the Parliaments nod. It has been criticised for posing a potential threat to privacy and security, how do you read it? Its a huge threat to privacy as well as equality because DNA databases have been documented to have an adverse effect on the most vulnerable populations and I discuss why in the Epilogue of the book. It allows for widespread DNA collection and storage in a disproportionate manner and lacks adequate safeguards. A dissenting note by Usha Ramanathan, who was on a Committee of Experts that discussed the bill, sums up many of the problems with it. As per a report, only 9 per cent of the High Court judges are women. What do you think led to such gender disparity and what is the need of the hour to fix it? The legal profession is institutionally hostile towards women. This is not simply a function of the widespread sexism at the bar which, unfortunately, exists beyond a shadow of doubt but also a function of structural issues. For example, I have colleagues who need to travel long distances between home and office, and also have to do very long and late working hours. In a city like Delhi, there are serious concerns about physical safety in situations of this kind. But theres pressure upon you not to go home early, for fear of missing out on important matters at the office an absolute Catch-22 situation. Examples of this kind abound, and create an environment where it is significantly more difficult for women to succeed than it is for men. You obviously need to fix an institutional problem by taking institutional measures, but that requires a large-scale overhaul of the workings of the profession. That can only be achieved incrementally, and through spreading awareness; in the meantime, I think there need to be more effective remedies, such as ensuring adequate representation of women on the bench, in terms of numbers. Title: The Transformative Constitution: A Radical Biography in Nine Acts Author: Gautam Bhatia Publisher: HarperCollins India Price: Rs 699 Rajesh Asnani By Express News Service JAIPUR: The BJP seems to have taken a huge risk in Rajasthan, repeating 14 parliamentarians on 16 seats it declared on Sunday, despite its experience of losing the Assembly elections last December in which it could win just 73 of the 200 seats after having swept all 25 Lok Sabha seats in 2014. The 14 include Vasundhara Rajes son Dushyant Singh, Central Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, PP Choudhary, Arjun Ram Meghwal and Gajendra Singh, who the BJP claimed would sail clear on what they expect to be a repeat of the Narendra Modi wave. Rajasthan has had a long trend, historically, of a party doing well in the Assembly doing better in the succeeding Lok Sabha polls-the 2014 results being the latest proof. But the BJP, which won 163 seats in the 2013 Assembly now has just 73 seats. BJP actually trailed badly in the Parliamentary constituencies of five union ministers four of whom have been fielded again. FOLLOW FULL ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Narayan Bareth, a political observer said, The BJP might feel that the narrative has changed since the Assembly elections last year with Modi at the helm and the Pulwama massacre and the air strikes across the international borders in Pakistans Balakot providing it an advantage and restoring BJPs dynamism. But then, he said, the party has to be wary of anger over unemployment and farm crisis. In the Assembly polls, however, the winning margin of Congress was just .50% though it won over 100 seats. This narrow difference, BJP leaders feel, will be bridged with Modi charisma, despite the fact that in 10 LS constituencies- Jaipur rural, Jaipur city, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, Barmer, Tonk Sawai Madhopur, Sikar, Churu, Alwar, Ganganagar and Jhunjhunu-the party suffered massive defeats. The BJP candidates, however, would be up for a serious challenge this time, more so BJPs Gajendra Singh Shekhawat a rival of Vasundhara Raje who would be taking on Ashok Gehlots son Vaibhav in his designated seat. By PTI PATNA: The opposition 'Mahagathbandhan' in Bihar on Friday announced its seat-sharing formula for the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state, half of which will be fought by Lalu Prasad's RJD and nine by the Congress. Former JD(U) president and NDA convener Sharad Yadav will contest on the RJD symbol and merge his party Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) with it after the Lok Sabha polls, RJD national spokesman Manoj Jha and RJD state president Ram Chandra Purve told newsmen. Recent entrants to the 'Grand Alliance' - Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) and Mukesh Sahni's Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP) will field their candidates in five and three seats, respectively, they said. ALSO READ | Lok Sabha Elections 2019: Tejashwi says Bihar grand alliance almost done deal Former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustan Awam Morcha (HAM) has been given three seats. The RJD leaders made the announcement in the presence of representatives from all alliance partners, including Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee president Madan Mohan Jha. Top leaders like Tejashwi Yadav (RJD), Kushwaha (RLSP), Sharad Yadav and Manjhi were conspicuous by their absence though. As per the analysis of the seat-sharing formula, the RJD, which wanted to contest 20, had to part with one seat from its quota to the CPI(ML) Liberation, while the Congress, which had reportedly bargained hard for 11 seats, had to settle for nine with the assurance of a Rajya Sabha berth. Among other constituents, the HAM, which claimed to have a "stronger support base than even of the Congress" and had insisted on more seats than at least the RLSP, had to settle for only three. The RLSP, which had walked out of the NDA following an offer of only two seats, was allotted five. FOLLOW OUR FULL ELECTION COVERAGE HERE The biggest gainer was, surprisingly, the fledgeling Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), which was floated by former Bollywood set designer Mukesh Sahni less than six months ago. It got three seats to contest from which is equal to that of the HAM. Candidates were also announced for the four Lok Sabha seats that will go to polls in the first phase. Filing of nominations for these seats will end on March 25 and votes will be cast on April 11. These candidates include Manjhi himself, who will be contesting from Gaya, and RLSP state president Bhudeo Chaudhary from Jamui which is currently held by LJP's Chirag Paswan. The other prominent candidates in the list are HAM's Upendra Prasad from Aurangabad and RJD's Vibha Devi, whose husband Raj Vallabh Yadav was recently disqualified from the assembly following conviction in a rape case, from Nawada. The RJD leaders also announced that the Nawada assembly seat will be contested by Dhirendra Singh Munna of the HAM. The Dehri assembly seat, where by-election has been necessitated by RJD's Mohd Iliyas Hussain losing the seat on account of conviction in the bitumen scam, has gone to his son Mohd Firoz Husain. By-polls to the two assembly seats will be held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections in Bihar where it will be held in seven phases. When reporters approached Sharad Yadav outside Rabri Devi's residence, where parleys had taken place for several hours before the announcements, he affirmed that he will be fighting on an RJD ticket and merge the LJD, which he had founded after falling out with Nitish Kumar, with the RJD. The RJD leaders also announced that the party would give one seat to CPI(ML) Liberation from its quota but did not specify the constituency. The Congress, they said, will get the first Rajya Sabha seat from the Mahagathbandhan whenever elections are held for the upper house. The seat sharing announcement evoked angry outbursts at Sadaqat Ashram, the Congress headquarters in Bihar, as supporters of former Aurangabad MP, Nikhil Kumar, raised angry slogans in protest against the seat going to the HAM. The agitators alleged that the seat was "sold" by Jha and AICC in-charge for the state, Shaktisinh Gohil. The Aurangabad seat, known as 'mini Chittorgarh' by virtue of the strong presence of the Rajput caste in the area, has been a bastion for Nikhil Kumar's family. His father Satyendra Narayan Singh had represented the seat many times before becoming the state chief minister for a brief period. Shyama Singh, the late wife of Nikhil Kumar, who is a former Delhi Police chief, had also represented the seat. The NDA has been winning the seat since the 2009 Lok Sabha elections. PTI NAC ANW KK AQS AQS 03221942 NNNN Rajesh Kumar Thakur By Express News Service PURNEA: Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday kick-started the partys election campaign in Bihar, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of being the chowkidar (watchman) of only Anil Ambani and a few other rich people. Addressing his maiden election rally in Purnia, he said: Others in world may be afraid of Narendra Modi, the BJP and the RSS, but I am not afraid of anyone of them at all. I talk only truth. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Taking a jibe at the PM, Rahul said while Modi calls common people mitron (friends), he addresses Ambani, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and others like them as bhai (brother). All benefits and cash from the pockets of poor people are being put into the pockets of Anil Ambani and 15-20 other richest of country by the person who calls himself chowkidar of the people, the Congress leader said, urging the youths of Bihar to bid goodbye to the Modi-led government and his ways of chowkidari. ALSO READ | Congress has insulted martyrdom of soldiers, put question mark on national security: Amit Shah He promised that a minimum income line will be fixed and a fixed sum will be deposited into the accounts of those who are below that line if the Congress came to power. Did Narendra Modi waive off the loans of farmers? Did he ever speak to you? Did he give a bonus to farmers reeling under debts? He did not do anything. If my party forms the government, I will waive off the loans of farmers, as our party has done in other states, within 10 days, Rahul said. Accusing the BJP of doing communal politics, the Congress president said, I dont spread hatred as Modi does in the country. I want to make India as a one India with all living together and in harmony with brotherhood. Lets be ready to support me for this kind of new and vibrant India. By PTI KOLKATA: Protests erupted in various parts of West Bengal after the BJP, in its first list of 28 candidates, nominated its veterans and defectors from the ruling Trinamool Congress to take on Mamata Banerjee's party in the state. With old-timers being overlooked in favour of turncoats and newcomers, protestors gathered outside BJP offices in various parts of the state and, in some places, put up posters of rejected ticket aspirants outside the offices. BJP state vice-president Raj Kamal Pathak submitted his resignation after he was denied a party ticket. The saffron party, which bagged two Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2014 elections, is now targeting 23 of the state's 42 constituencies. Of its 28 candidates, nearly 25 are new faces, with a thrust on active political workers rather than greenhorns from the glamour world. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Unlike the TMC which had 18 new faces and a mix of old-timers and greenhorns, hardcore politicians and personalities from the film industry, the BJP has put faith on its own leaders and defectors from other parties. "If after serving the party for three decades and holding the post of vice-president do not make me qualified to get a party ticket, it is better to resign from the post," Pathak said. The veteran BJP leader wanted to contest from Hooghly district, but he was overlooked in favour of a newcomer in the party. BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said efforts will be made to pacify the dissidents. "There can be resentment in some places, but everything can be sorted out through discussions," BJP state secretary Rahul Sinha said. This is not the first time the BJP has faced such protests. During the Kolkata Municipal Corporation polls in 2015, several ticket aspirants staged protest rallies outside the party office. Of the candidates, five had recently defected to the saffron party from the Trinamool Congress and one from the CPI(M). Union minister and BJP MP from Asansol Lok Sabha constituency Babul Supriyo has been renominated from the same seat and is pitted against actor Moon Moon Sen of the TMC. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh will contest from Medinipur seat against TMC leader Manas Bhunia. BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha will take on TMC heavyweight Sudip Bandopadhyay in Kolkata North Lok Sabha seat. State BJP vice-president and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's grandnephew, Chandra Kumar Bose will contest from Kolkata South Lok Sabha seat. Former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh, once known to be close to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, will be fighting against TMC candidate and actor Dipak Adhikary, popularly known as 'Dev', from Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency. The BJP has fielded former Trinamool Congress MLA Arjun Singh from Barrackpur Lok Sabha seat. Singh, who had recently joined the saffron party, has been pitted against TMC's Dinesh Trivedi. In Coochbebar Lok Sabha seat, the party has fielded former TMC youth leader Nishith Pramanik, while in Jadavpur, expelled TMC MP Anupam Hazra will contest against TMC's Mimi Chakraborty, an actor by profession. Another former TMC MP Soumitra Khan, who joined the BJP in January, has been given ticket from Bishnupur (SC) Lok Sabha seat. Former CPI(M) MLA Khagen Murmu, who too had switched over to the BJP, will contest from Malda North seat against TMC's Mausam Benazir Noor, who had recently defected to the party from the Congress, in Malda Uttar seat. Former TMC leader Sreerupa Mitra Chowdhury, who had contested elections on a TMC ticket from New Delhi, is the BJP candidate from the neighbouring Malda South seat. There are four women candidates and one Muslim nominee in the first list. The BJP in minority-dominated seats such as Malda South, Malda North and Basirhat did not field any candidate from the community. "We do not believe in giving tickets just on the basis of religion. For us winnability is the biggest criteria," said a state BJP leader. The Lok Sabha elections in the state will be held from April 11 till May 19 in seven phases. Receiving Second Vice President of the Cambodian National Assembly Khuon Sudary in Hanoi on March 22, Vuong expressed his delight at the sound development of the bilateral relations which have been made in a practical and effective manner in the past time. He congratulated Cambodia on its socio-economic revival, expressing his hope that under the reign of King Norodom Sihamoni and the leadership of the NA and Government, the people of the country will reap more achievements in the national construction and development. Khuon Sudary, for her part, informed the Vietnamese Party official of the outcomes of her talks with representatives of the Vietnamese National Assembly, and spoke highly of the state visit to Cambodia by Party General Secretary and President Nguyen Phu Trong on February 25-26. She affirmed that Cambodia will continue its tight coordination with Vietnam to carry out the agreements and joint statements signed between the high-ranking leaders of the two Parties and States. She took the occasion to thank the Vietnamese Party, Government and people for their support for Cambodia against the Khmer Rouge genocidal regime as well as in its national construction and protection cause. By PTI SRINAGAR: This is not "jihad" (armed crusade) but "jahalat" (benighted), a village elder pleaded to Pakistani terrorists in North Kashmir's Hajin area while asking them to release a 12-year-old boy who was held captive and subsequently killed on Thursday. Videos of the village elder of Mir Mohalla of Hajin surfaced on social media, showing him asking the two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, Ali alias Furkan and Hubaib, to release Atif Mir. The incident took place 33 km north of Srinagar where the terrorists had taken shelter in the boy's house at gunpoint, police officials said on Friday. The terrorists wanted to sexually abuse his sister but the family had helped her escape. This infuriated them and they started beating up the family members, including Atif and his old uncle Hameed Mir, they said. ALSO WATCH: Hearing their cries, other people in the locality informed the police. After assessing the situation, the police started rescuing the family. They managed to secure the release of the parents and other family members until they were fired upon by the holed up terrorists. "We knew that the boy and uncle were trapped inside and, so, we asked the villagers to appeal to the terrorists to release them," a senior official said. Speaking in Kashmiri, the village head was the first to ask the terrorists to release the innocent boy. "Do whatever you want, but this is not Jihad but Jahalat. Please release the boy," he said. Shocking video from Hajin Family members and locals of Hajin appealing the trapped militants to release the hostages including 10 years boy Atif Mir. Militants did not relent & eventually 10 years Atif lost his life. pic.twitter.com/W9ZfB1OYpd Danish Ahmad (@DanishA86632004) March 22, 2019 The police also made an appeal through Aqeqa Begum, the wife of Hameed, who was virtually breathless as she asked the terrorists to release her husband and nephew. Simultaneously, the police made a room intervention and brought Hameed out of the house. He told them that he was assaulted by the terrorists who hit him with iron rods and an AK rifle. "I tried my best to get my nephew out of this. I begged them but they remained unmoved," Hameed told the police. "I lost my best friend, my brother, my secret keeper, my companion, my best man, my childhood, my youth, my innocence, my present, my past, my future, my happiness. I lost. I lost." Friend of Atif Mir who was held hostage by LeT terrorists. pic.twitter.com/Lw8r9xRF0f Khalid Shah (@khalidbshah) March 23, 2019 As pressure mounted on the terrorists, they killed the helpless Atif, the police said, adding that the security forces later mounted a heightened operation and killed both the Pakistanis. Ali had been active in the area for long and was involved in the killing of a BSF personnel and others, including the death of a man whose throat was slit in front of his son. Sthanu R Nair By With the formal launch of arguably the worlds largest farm sector scheme, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) by PM Narendra Modi on February 24, a farmer-centric template has been laid down for the upcoming Lok Sabha election campaign. The scheme is aimed at providing direct assured income support amounting to Rs 6,000 per annum to small and marginal farmer families holding up to two hectares of cultivable land. The opposition parties have termed it a bribe for votes scheme. Those familiar with the Indian agricultural policy scenario know the idea behind this scheme is not new. Telangana introduced a similar kind of scheme in May 2018 called Rythu Bandhu. Under this, every year farmers receive in their bank account Rs 8,000 per acre of land owned by them. This January, Odisha launched the Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA). In this, families of small and marginal farmers and landless agricultural labourers receive income support ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 in their bank account. The main purpose of income transfer under these three schemes is to enable farmers to purchase agricultural inputs such as seeds, equipment and labour (all three schemes) and to venture into allied agricultural activities such as goat rearing, mushroom cultivation and bee-keeping (KALIA). Their launch raises two important questions: What is the economic rationale for such schemes? And what is the best way to implement them? It is well known that in India a major part of the government expenditure on welfare and subsidy schemes fail to reach the beneficiaries due to improper targeting, lack of accountability and weak administrative capacity. According to an estimate by the erstwhile Planning Commission, to transfer Rs 1 worth of food the government has to spend Rs 3.65, indicating high leakage. So, to spend government money on welfare schemes efficiently two mechanisms have been suggested by development policy experts all over the world. They are Direct Cash Transfers (DCT) and Universal Basic Income (UBI). The DCT mechanism involves the transfer of money directly to the beneficiaries of government welfare schemes, instead of offering them goods and services at subsidised rates. The recipients can decide what they want to do with the money. A farmer family receiving money under PM-KISAN can use it to purchase seeds, fertilisers, etc. or use it to meet the immediate needs of the family. UBI is a social security system in which all citizens of a country are entitled to a minimum income from the government without any conditions attached to its use. The spirit behind unconditional money transfer is that the recipient knows how to make the best use of it. But nothing stops a government from imposing conditions. For instance, under a successful cash transfer programme called Bolsa Familia (Family Allowance) implemented in Brazil, the government transfers cash to poor families to help them meet basic needs only if the family agrees to send their children to school and take them to a health care centre for regular check-ups and vaccination. The direct income schemes for farmers have the following key benefits. First, they guarantee a minimum income for the farmers. Second, cash in the hands of farmers would expand their choices which, in turn, could enhance rural economic activity. Third, cash would reduce the dependence of farmers on inefficient and insensitive government machinery for accessing agricultural inputs and on usurious money lenders for meeting their credit requirements. But there are three major concerns. In a system where agri inputs are already supplied at subsidised rates to farmers, cash transfers result in duplication of government expenditure. There is a risk that cash transfers would induce some sections of farmers to reduce their farming activity. The recipients of cash could spend it on non-agricultural purposes. To avoid duplication, public provision of agri inputs should be replaced depending on the extent of cash support received by farmers. The possibilities of misspending could be reduced through a proper programme design. In this regard, Brazils successful experience with the Bolsa Familia programme offers three ideas. First, money could be transferred to women in the family, which is more likely to improve household welfare. Second, in the case of misspending, the beneficiaries can be counselled through institutions at the local government level. The reasons for misuse should be identified. This is needed as the reasons could be legitimate like crop failures, employment loss, illness in the family and indebtedness. Third, some conditions could be imposed to get the cash. For example, the beneficiary farmers could be asked to bring their livestock for regular health check-up or submit original receipts of purchase of agri inputs. But enforcing the conditions would be difficult given our population and also promote corruption and patronage. The only solution then is to legalise misspending. Finally, as a long-term measure, income transfers could be paid out through a magnetic smart-card coded with the entitlement of the beneficiary. The entitlement could include a supplemental income component to help farmers meet basic needs and an agricultural input sourcing component. In this case, transactions can take place through point-of-sale (POS) devices (for agricultural inputs) and ATMs not connected to bank systems (for cash component), with biometric authentication for the identity of the beneficiaries. Sthanu R Nair Associate Professor of Economics, IIM Kozhikode Email: srn@iimk.ac.in By Express News Service BENGALURU: Rejecting all allegations against him levelled by the Congress based on his alleged entries in a diary from 2009, BJP state president BS Yeddyurappa threatened the party of a defamation suit. A day after the BJP announced its first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, Congress Randeep Surjewala at a press conference in New Delhi accused Yeddyurappa of paying Rs 1,800 crore to various leaders of the BJP based on handwritten entries in a diary that the Congress said belonged to the former CM. The 76-year-old BJP leader called the diary and its contents fake. Absolute nonsense, disgusting & desperate efforts by @INCIndia to release such fake diary, prove it at the earliest or face defamation case. (SIC) BS Yeddyurappa said on his twitter handle. He later issued a statement claiming that the diary Congress was referring to had already been found to be forged in an Income Tax department investigation. Calling the issue a closed chapter, Yeddyurappa accused the Congress of planting the story in the media to gain political mileage in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. I-T department officials have already probed the issue to find that the documents and signatures and handwritten notes are forged ones, Yeddyurappa added. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE The Congress on Friday evening released a set of documents claiming to be photocopies of the diary entries allegedly made by Yeddyurappa. The notes show entries of money paid and received from various leaders of the party at the state and national level. Names of those who allegedly received money from Yeddyurappa include Union ministers Arun Jaitley, Nitin Gadkari, Rajnath Singh, Murali Manohar Joshi and L K Advani. The Karnataka BJPs social media team took to their accounts to accuse the Congress of creating and promoting fake documents. The unit even put up documents with Yeddyurappas signatures, drawing comparisons to those in the alleged diary in an attempt to prove that the signatures were not his. By PTI BENGALURU: Miscreants stoned the house of Kannada film actor Darshan and damaged his car Saturday, three days after he started canvassing support for actress Sumalatha, who is contesting from Mandya Lok Sabha constituency against Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's son. Sumalatha, the widow of popular Kannada film actor and three-time Mandya MP Ambareesh,is contesting as an independent against former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda's grandson and Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy. Flanked by an enormous crowd, she filed her nominations on March 20, which was followed by an emotional speech. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Darshan, who too hails from Mandya, is among the many film actors and prominent persons from the Kannada film industry, including Yash and 'Rockline' Venkatesh, who openly came out in support of Sumalatha. According to police, the actor was in Hyderabad for shooting when the incident occurred in the early hours Saturday. Reacting to the incident, Sumalatha said, "Such intimidating tactics will not work. Nobody can dare threaten Darshan and Yash. Our workers need not have to get provoked by such incidents." By Express News Service BENGALURU: In a big boost to independent candidate and actor Sumalatha, the BJP on Saturday announced that it will not field its candidate in Mandya and extend support to her. The party also announced that BBMP corporator S Muniswamy will be its candidate in Kolar to take on seven-time Congress MP K H Muniyappa.The BJP Central Election Committee consisting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah took the decision to support Sumalatha in Mandya. I welcome the decision whole-heartedly, said Sumalatha. The BJP support is likely to make a huge difference to her as she is also hoping to get support from the local rebel Congress workers. We decided to support her and not field a candidate to avoid split in anti-JDS votes, said a senior BJP leader. The party strategy is simple; do everything possible to defeat Congress-JDS candidates, the BJP leader said. Ticket to BBMP corporator surprises many Sumalatha had earlier met senior BJP leaders, including BJP state president B S Yeddyurappa and ex-CM S M Krishna and sought their support to her candidature. In 2018 bypoll, the BJP candidate in Mandya, Dr Siddaramaiah, had secured around 2.65 lakh votes. The BJP is yet to announce its candidates for five LS seats including Bangalore South and Bangalore Rural. It had earlier announced its candidates for 21 seats and accommodated 14 sitting MPs.While the partys decision to give a ticket to first-time Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) corporator Muniswamy has surprised many in Kolar, BJP leaders said it was part of the partys strategy to give the ticket to an outsider, who can give a tough fight to Muniyappa. My hard work has brought me the ticket, said Muniswamy. I am aware of the disarray caused in the constituency by Muniyappas misdeeds. I am confident of winning, he said. Anil S Anilan By Express News Service THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: There are indications that Congress president Rahul Gandhi has agreed to the demand from the party's leadership in Kerala to contest from Wayanad in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has confirmed that the party has put the demand before the AICC leadership. "KPCC has raised the demand before the party leadership. Now the matter is currently under his consideration. The Congress candidate in Wayanad T Siddique has expressed his willingness to stay away for Rahul," Chandy said. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala said the matter has been discussed with KPCC president Mullappally Ramachandran and senior leaders including Congress Working Committee member AK Antony, senior leader Mukul Wasnik and AICC general secretary KC Venugopal. "If he contests from Wayanad Rahul will win with a majority of more than 5 lakh votes," he said. The surprise move by the Congress leadership in the state is part of a move by the UDF to sweep the state in the Lok Sabha polls. The UDF allies have also come out welcoming the move to field Rahul Gandhi from Kerala. By Express News Service SALEM: Terming the upcoming Parliamentary election as a fight between good and the evil, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami stressed the need for a strong political leader to lead the 130-odd crore Indians. Palaniswami was in the town as part of a whirlwind campaign tour on Friday. Before addressing a gathering, he introduced ally DMDKs Kallakurichi Lok Sabha seat candidate L K Sudhish and Salems AIADMK candidate for general election K R S Saravanan. Hitting the campaign trail from Salem, the chief minister said the AIADMK-BJP-PMK-DMDK mega alliance has set its sight on making Narendra Modi the Prime Minister again. Later, the chief minister campaigned for the alliance at Karumandurai, Puthiragoundanpalayam, Vazhapadi and Ayothiyapattinam, before leaving for Dharmapuri district. Meanwhile, during his campaing the Chief Minister stopped and paid respects during the Azaan call in a mosque. Pooja to poll trail Palaniswami sought blessings at the Vettri Vinayakar Temple at Karumandurai in Salem before hitting the campaign trail. Later, while distributing pamphlets to Karumandurai residents, the chief minister said that stability at Centre was imperative to ensure peace and safety of people. Narendra Modi has proven he is capable of ensuring peace and peoples safety. It is all the more important that he remains the prime minister, the chief minister said. Pulwama attack Reminding the electorate of the Pulwama attack and the strong response from the Indian Air Force (Surgical Strike on February 26), the chief minister stressed how India was enveloped by non-friendly neighbours. The chief minister heaped praises on the prime minister for bringing back Wing Commander Abhinandan, held captive by Pakistan. DMK against TNs welfare Training his guns on the DMK, he pointed out that the principal Opposition had squandered its chance of serving people by making false promises. While M K Stalin is hopping from street to street making false promises, did his party do anything for the people when his party was in power? The chief minister said that DMK stalled AIADMKs measures to uplift the people by raking non-issues. Welfare measures Questioning whether the DMK ever allotted the promise two-acre each to farmers, he contrasted his tenure with that of the principal Opposition. He said this was his second visit to Karumandurai as CM. He said the AIADMK government had ensured basic amenities, including road, electricity, a government hospital with 24 beds and schools to the area. He promised that a 900-acre veterinary park would be established on Kootu Road. By Express News Service HYDERABAD: TRS working president KT Rama Rao on Friday said that the foundations of the Congress party are shaking in Nalgonda Lok Sabha constituency, where PCC chief N Uttam Kumar Reddy himself is its candidate in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Addressing a meeting at Telangana Bhavan on Friday, after welcoming a large number of Congress workers from Shadnagar and Huzurnagar Assembly segments into the party, Rama Rao said that around 15 village sarpanches from Huzurnagar have joined TRS. Those who joined TRS on Friday included Shadnagars former MLA and Congress candidate in 2018 Assembly elections Ch Pratap Reddy. Rama Rao said that as the Shadnagar Congress candidate too joined the TRS, now the TRS should get 50,000 votes majority in the Assembly segment, he said, adding that now no one would be available to carry the Congress flag in Shadnagar Assembly segment. Repeating his slogan kaaru (car), saaru (KCR), padaharu (16 Lok Sabha seats) and kendramlo sarkaaru (power at Centre), Rama Rao said: If you elect the Congress candidates, they will act as servants of the Delhi bosses. If you elect the TRS candidates, they will fight with the Central government and bring more funds for the development of the State. By Bloomberg Google has requested a meeting with a top US general as political tension rises over the internet giants artificial intelligence work in China. General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the joint Chiefs of Staff, said on Thursday that Google "indirectly benefits the Chinese military" and is planning to meet with the company over the matter. The Pentagon official cited a Google AI lab that opened in Beijing in 2017 as a cause of concern. "In my judgment, us assisting the Chinese military in advancing technology is not in U.S. national interests," Dunford said on Thursday at an Atlantic Council event. "So its a debate we have to have." READ HERE | US officials blast Google for 'helping' Chinese military, pulling out of state defence contracts Dunford is "tentatively scheduled" to meet next week with a senior Google official in Washington, at Googles request, Colonel Patrick Ryder, a military spokesman, wrote in an email. Googles relationship with the Pentagon has been strained since it retreated from an AI defence contract last year following employee protests. The tech giant has faced criticism in Washington for plans to launch a search engine in China, where Google pulled most of its commercial services in 2010. At a Senate hearing last week, Dunford said Google was indirectly helping Chinas military. Days later, U.S. President Donald Trump repeated the critique in a tweet. In response, Google issued a statement on Sunday denying the claim. "We are not working with the Chinese military," the Alphabet Inc. unit said. "We are working with the U.S. government, including the Department of Defense, in many areas including cybersecurity, recruiting and healthcare. ALSO READ | Clueless US lawmakers wipe smile off Google CEO Sundar Pichai's face - but not for long On Thursday, a Google spokeswoman declined to comment on the tentative meeting with the general. The companys Beijing lab is focused on developing software including TensorFlow, one of the most popular AI tools, along with education initiatives, "research on natural language understanding and market algorithms," the spokeswoman wrote in an email. TensorFlow is a critical part of Googles expansion strategy. TensorFlow has been downloaded 17 million times with more than 2 million of those coming from China-based users, Google engineering director Rajat Monga said at a September conference backed by the Chinese government. TensorFlow is free, open-source software, so Google doesnt control who uses it. By Bloomberg After an investigation into Russias interference in the 2016 election that lasted almost two years, Special Counsel Robert Mueller has filed his final report on the matter to Attorney General William Barr. We now know more than we knew this morning, but it will take days, weeks, months and perhaps years before we learn everything we want to know. What we can say with assurance is that Mueller and his team admirable public servants to the end conducted their probe without leaks, mindful of the law, and with enough resolve to proceed despite unprecedented public and private meddling from President Donald Trump and his cronies in Congress. Mueller also moved along swiftly for an investigation of this scope and gravity (Kenneth Starr, in comparison, spent four years investigating President Bill Clinton). What we cant say yet is what firm and final conclusions Mueller has drawn from his exploration of whether Trump and his presidential team colluded with Russia or its proxies during the 2016 election and whether Trump or anyone else in his orbit obstructed that probe or any investigations preceding or related to it. ALSO READ | Trump's former aide indicted in Mueller probe, held; White House says nothing to do with US President We know now that Mueller, in what can only be construed as institutional deference to the presidency, decided not to subpoena or otherwise compel Trump to testify in person and under oath. That may not be a surprise, given that Mueller is an institutionalist to his core. But it also is a glaring and, in my mind, unfortunate lapse in what otherwise appears to have been a thorough and sophisticated investigation. Trump has provided written answers to Muellers queries, but compelling the president to answer in person would have given the probe and its report more authority and traction especially given how aggressively the president chose to interfere with what he relentlessly described as a witch hunt. We also know that Mueller levelled about 200 criminal charges against 34 people and three Russian companies. Within that group, 26 people were Russian nationals and six were once Trump advisers (Michael Cohen, Michael Flynn, Rick Gates, Paul Manafort, George Papadopoulos and Roger Stone, to jog your memory). Trumps presidential campaign and his transition into the White House were populated by criminals, the facts of which cant be disputed thanks to Muellers investigation. Russians, beyond a doubt, burglarized private computer servers of the Democratic National Committee and Hillary Clintons campaign adviser John Podesta in an effort to tilt the 2016 election in Trumps favor, the facts of which are also indisputable thanks to Muellers investigation. Russian interests also used social media to disseminate fake news and support Trump at the direction of Russias president, Vladimir Putin. Those facts cant be disputed, either, thanks to Muellers investigation. A copy of a letter from Attorney General William Barr advising Congress that Special Counsel Robert Mueller has concluded his investigation, is shown March 22, 2019 in Washington. (Photo | AP) Mueller had a broad investigative mandate when he was authorized to launch his probe on May 17, 2017. That envisioned a full and thorough investigation of the Russian governments efforts to interfere in the 2016 presidential election and any matters that arose or may arise directly from the investigation. We can now reasonably conclude that Mueller chose to dive deeply into probing interference in the election, but chose to interpret any matters arising from that probe more narrowly (perhaps because of political pressure to keep his focus tight, or simply because he interpreted the legal boundaries that way himself). That appears to have meant that Mueller decided to leave an examination of the Trump Organization and the presidents business dealings and finances to other law enforcement officials (best exemplified, perhaps, by his decision to refer the Cohen prosecution to the U.S. Attorneys Office in Manhattan). In that context, we also know now that Muellers team found no reason to indict Donald Trump Jr., Jared Kushner or other members of the Trump family including, of course, the president himself as part of its investigation. That certainly doesnt mean, however, that the president, his family and his company are out of the woods legally. Theyre all being scrutinized by a number of investigators, including federal prosecutors in Manhattan, three state attorneys general and five congressional committees. Parts of those probes could continue for years. In the near term, Muellers report marks the end of the beginning of the Trump investigations. In a letter to senior congressional leaders on Friday evening, Barr said he may be able to inform them of the Mueller reports principal conclusions sometime this weekend. He said he plans to confer with both Mueller and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law and that he is committed to as much transparency as possible. Theres the rub. The actions of the most transparently unethical and lawless president of the modern era are being formally memorialized by law enforcement in a report and through a process that has been largely opaque. We dont know what we dont know, and Barr is about to take the first crack at deciding what we should know. He and Congress may be poised for an epic showdown over transparency and the full contours of Robert Muellers magnum opus. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen and visiting Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou presided over the ceremony in Kampong Speu, which was attended by about 10,000 people. Hun Sen said the 190-km expressway is the first of its kind in Cambodia, saying that the huge project was made possible thanks to the excellent ties between China and Cambodia. He added that the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) invested about US$ 2 billion for the thoroughfare, which will take four years to be constructed, starting from March 2019 to March 2023. "On behalf of the Cambodian government, I'd like to express my profound gratitude to the Chinese government for supporting this project, and to the CRBC for investing in the project," Hun Sen said. The four-lane expressway will be built on the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) form, he said. "This expressway is very important to connect the country's first economic pole, Phnom Penh, to the second economic pole, Sihanoukville," Hun Sen said. "We believe that it will be an importantly strategic road that will contribute to boosting Cambodia's economic growth." Kong Xuanyou said as a good brother, friend, partner, and neighbor of Cambodia, China attached great importance to the development of relations with Cambodia based on the principle of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit. "I believe that the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville expressway will not only provide enormous benefits to the Cambodian people, but also be a road of friendship and cooperation between China and Cambodia," he said. By PTI LONDON: Authorities in Ireland say a parcel bomb found at an Irish postal depot appears identical to a series of devices sent to Britain earlier this month. Irish leader Leo Varadkar said it was found at a return mail office in Limerick. The Irish police, the Garda, called military bomb disposal experts after the package was discovered Friday morning. Irish Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan says a stamp on the package was similar to small letter bombs sent to the UK earlier this month. Those devices had been designed to cause fires at Waterloo rail station in central London, offices at Heathrow and London City airports, and the University of Glasgow. One of the devices partially burned when opened. An Irish dissident group claimed responsibility. By PTI COLOMBO: Sri Lanka's main Tamil party TNA on Friday called for allowing foreign judges and prosecutors to probe the alleged war crimes, a day after the UN Human Rights Council gave Colombo two more years to set up a credible investigation into the country's brutal civil war. Sri Lankan troops are accused of killing at least 40,000 ethnic Tamil civilians during former president Mahinda Rajapaksa's regime that brought an end to the three-decade-long civil war with the LTTE in 2009, according to the UN. According to the government figures, around 20,000 people are missing due to various conflicts including the civil war with Lankan Tamils in the north and east which claimed at least 100,000 lives. The United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on Thursday approved giving two more years to the Sri Lankan government to set up a credible war crimes investigation into the civil war. M A Sumanthiran, the senior Tamil National Alliance (TNA) spokesman, said that they would urge for "a tribunal which is entirely international". "We will take the case to the International Criminal Court," he said while addressing Parliament. Sumanthiran said the official position taken by Foreign Minister Thilak Marapana on Wednesday in Geneva that foreign judges cannot constitutionally operate in Sri Lanka was false. "It is false to say that the constitution does not allow foreign judges to function," he said. Referring to a case precedent in 2001, Sumanthiran, a lawyer, said that the constitutional provisions do not curtail or restrict the operation of foreign judges in Sri Lanka. He said that the UNHRC resolution adopted in October 2015, which was co-sponsored by Sri Lanka, Colombo is bound to allow an international investigation. Sumanthiran said that when the government of Sri Lanka stands on one side with the militant group which fought for a separate state on the other side, only the foreign judges can ensure the impartiality of investigation. "We Tamils have no alternative but to work towards an international judicial process. We prefer a hybrid judicial mechanism," he said. In Geneva on Thursday, the UN's top rights body approved without a vote a resolution to postpone discussing the implementation of an official probe into crimes committed during the civil war. The Sri Lankan government said that the resolution, which was adopted without a vote, had recognised the progressive steps already taken by Sri Lanka since 2015. Its action to co-sponsor the resolution had shown the commitment on Sri Lanka to achieve reconciliation through accountability, the government said in a statement. By AFP THE HAGUE: A Turkish-born suspect has confessed to terrorist charges over a shooting on a tram in the Dutch city of Utrecht which killed three people, prosecutors said Friday. Gokmen Tanis, 37, said he acted alone in Monday's attack which left seven people injured and triggered a huge eight-hour manhunt until he was finally captured. "The 37-year-old suspect confessed this morning to the examining magistrate the criminal offences against him. He also stated that he acted alone," the Dutch prosecution service said in a statement. "Because of the investigation nothing else can be said." Prosecutors said on Thursday that Tanis would be charged with "multiple murders with terrorist aims, as well as attempted murder and a terrorist threat." He appeared before a magistrate behind closed doors and was expected to be remanded in custody for a further two weeks. Police had meanwhile released a 40-year-old man who was arrested on Tuesday because Tanis had been found in his home, the prosecution service said. "An in-depth investigation has been carried out into whether the man was involved in the shooting incident or helped in any way. No evidence was found and the man is therefore no longer a suspect," it said. Two other men were arrested and released earlier in the week after police sniffer dogs followed a trail from Tanis's getaway car to their house. By PTI ISLAMABAD: It would be a "mistake" for India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition and its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness, President Arif Alvi said on Saturday as Islamabad displayed its military might on the National Day. Alvi was addressing the annual Pakistan Day Parade here to commemorate the resolution passed by the All-India Muslim League on the day in 1940 in Lahore demanding a separate country for Muslims. ALSO READ| PM Modi greets Imran Khan; MEA boycotts Pakistan National Day event in Delhi The National Day featured a joint parade by the army, air force and navy, display of military hardware, along with open and veiled anti-India rhetoric. "It was the duty and responsibility of Pakistan to respond to the Indian aggression. We responded with better strategy," Alvi said, apparently referring to the downing of an Indian Air Force jet. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group JeM killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation against a JeM training camp in Balakot. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Alvi said India's actions jeopardised peace in the region. "It would a mistake on part of India to view Pakistan with the eye of pre-partition. Doing so would be very dangerous for the region's stability. India will have to accept Pakistan as a reality, and it must come to the conclusion that dialogue is the only way to resolve issues," Alvi said at the ceremony where Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was the guest of honour. ALSO READ | Stop writing love letters to Imran Khan: Congress on PM Modi's Pakistan Day greetings He said Pakistan wants peaceful co-existence but its "desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness". "We are a peaceful nation, but are not oblivious to our defence, and the same has been proved in the recent demonstration of Pakistan's defence capability," he said, adding that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and respects integrity and sovereignty of other states. Alvi said the country is safe and moving on the path of progress and development after effectively combating the menace of terrorism. The president also inspected the parade before his address. Prime Minister Imran Khan, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mehmood Hayat, army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, naval chief Admiral Zafar Mehmood Abbasi and Chief of Air Staff Mujahid Anwar Khan attended the ceremony. According to official sources in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a letter to Khan, greeting people of Pakistan on the eve of its National Day and highlighting the importance of a terror-free South Asia. Modi, in his message, said it was time for the people of the sub-continent to work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence, they said. Contingents, paratroopers and fighter jets from Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, China, Bahrain and Sri Lanka also took part in the parade. Shahper and Buraq drones were also displayed in the parade along with different missile systems including Nasr, Babur, Shaheen 1, Ghuri, Shaheen 111 among others, and defence systems as well as tanks. The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were also offered in mosques after morning prayers for the country's progress and prosperity. Reporter Mary Schenk is a reporter covering police, courts and breaking news at The News-Gazette. Her email is mschenk@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@schenk). Reporter Debra Pressey is a reporter covering health care at The News-Gazette. Her email is dpressey@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@DLPressey). BEIJING, March 22 -- Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng on Friday called on officials to tackle key issues to win the battle against pollution. Han, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at a symposium held during his inspection at the Ministry of Ecology and Environment. The country should establish and improve the scientific mechanism for finding problems while focusing on the major ones, Han said. Efforts should be made to efficiently implement the action plans on air, water and soil pollution control, he added. The country should continue to push air pollution control in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and surrounding areas while rectifying the ecological and environmental problems in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, he said. Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Edward Yau will travel to Sydney on March 24. Mr Yau will attend the signing ceremony of the Hong Kong-Australia Free Trade Agreement & Investment Agreement in the morning of March 26. On the same day, he will deliver a speech on the two agreements at a luncheon seminar hosted by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, Sydney. He will also have a meeting with Destination NSW to learn about its tourism development strategy, and call on the Chinese Consul General in Sydney. Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong in the evening of March 26. During his absence, Under Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Bernard Chan will be Acting Secretary. I want to thank you all for coming to this service despite it being a Saturday, I know some have set tomorrow as the day they will gather as denominations to mourn, but you have decided to do it today. We are going through a painful phase as a country. There is a dark cloud over us and as human beings we might fail to comprehend it; that is why we need divine intervention now, said the First Lady who was filled with emotion as she encouraged Zimbabweans to continue looking unto God. A ZIMBABWE Revenue Authority (Zimra) official was on Wednesday mauled by dogs at a Chinese-owned warehouse in Southerton during an operation to smoke out smuggling of goods into the country. According to witnesses, the Zimra officials who were driving in a branded car went and parked at the entrance gate and proceeded to knock. A Chinese lady, one Alice Wang reportedly came out and reportedly watched as her dogs jumped on the female Zimra official. Zimra spokesperson Francis Chimanda confirmed the incident and said the matter was reported to Southerton Police Station and investigations are in progress. A team of Zimra employees visited a clients premises on March 20, 2019 to conduct a routine verification, he said. Upon arrival at the premises the proprietor of the premises opened the gate to receive the officers, and two of their guard dogs came out of the premises and attacked one of the officers. The officer suffered injuries on the leg and was taken to the hospital by her colleagues for treatment. However Wang denied reports that she set the dogs on the official, saying she regretted the incident. I didnt set the dogs. We know each other so as I was greeting her, my dogs probably felt jealous and attacked her. That was a mistake and we went to Southerton Police and we also took her to hospital, Wang said. She said they are into the business of making sheets and comforters. Witnesses told NewsDay Weekender that they suspected the mauling was planned because the business people were probably trying to hide something from Zimra officials. They keep dogs at their business premise and on this particular incident; they were trying to avoid being investigated. In these Chinese-owned premises, a lot is happening that must be investigated. They also have some cameras outside the gate and they were sure of what they were doing because they didnt want to be exposed. These people do all they can to cover-up their dealings, a source privy to the matter said. Police at Southerton station confirmed receiving the report on Wednesday and said they later forwarded the matter to Mbare, since it falls in that jurisdiction. Newsday (Newser) The Taliban's founder may have been hiding in plain sightor at least near a US basewhen America thought he was really in Pakistan, the Wall Street Journal reports. A new research-based report says Mullah Mohammad Omar spent his final years in Afghanistan, partly with his driver, and moved only when the US set up a permanent base a few minutes away. Seems Mullah Omar then moved to a more remote mud-brick home where his bodyguard Jabbar Omari tended to him until Omar's 2013 death. Even that location, in Siuray province, was just a few miles from a smaller US base called Forward Operating Base Wolverine. The report contradicts US and Afghan intelligence experts and is vehemently denied by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, per Radio Free Europe. story continues below "We strongly reject this delusional claim and we see it as an effort to create and build an identify [sic] for the Taliban and their foreign backers," tweets a spokesman for the president. "We have sufficient evidence which shows he lived and died in Pakistan. Period!" The Zomia Center reportwhich is based on interviews with members of the Taliban, Afghan government, Afghan intelligence, and Omarisays the one-eyed leader rarely left his Siuray home except for a little sunlight and requested only henna to dye his beard and a local tobacco. "The report shows that the US got one of the biggest claims about the war wrong, and it also shows how little we understand the Taliban movement," says report author Bette Dam. The finding comes amid Taliban peace talks that aren't going too well, the Washington Post reports. (Read more Taliban stories.) (Newser) The treasurer at a charity for fallen New York City police is accused of stealing about $410,000including $1,400 for Barbra Streisand tickets, the New York Times reports. Lorraine Shanley, 68, was arrested Thursday and could face 30 years in prison. A volunteer treasurer at Survivors of the Shield, Shanley is accused of forging signatures, double-endorsing checks, and writing unauthorized checks "to pay for personal expenses and to distribute money to herself and family members," per a criminal complaint quoted by ABC News. She "allegedly capitalized on tragedy and monetized peoples generosity," say federal prosecutors in a statement. Over seven years, they say, she used the money for expenses like dental work and landscaping. She also allegedly spent it on her son's criminal defense. story continues below Her son, Thomas Shanley, is serving time for plowing his SUV into a pole that killed a human-rights activist waiting at a Manhattan bus stop in 2014; Shanley evaded police for two months before being caught. "She betrayed the trust of the organization," says Kathleen Vigiano, the charity's board president. "We have widows who have been on a pension since the Sixties and its not that high. And that money could have gone to the kids educations, the special needs kids, the college kids." Shanley was charged with aggravated identity theft and let go on $100,000 bond. She shook her head and said nothing to reporters when she left court. Her husband, Officer Thomas Shanley, died in 1986 of a heart attack, per the New York Daily News. (Read more fraud stories.) Employees assemble vehicles at an automobile plant in Weifang, Shandong province. [Photo by Wang Jilin/for China Daily] China will take a solid step toward becoming a high-income country this year, creating more space to deepen reform and expand opening-up, economists said on Friday. A more balanced growth pattern will help the world's second-largest economy pass the "middle-income trap", with consumption and high-tech manufacturing leading growth, they said at a Beijing seminar leading up to the 2019 China Development Forum, which starts on Saturday. After decades of rapid GDP growth, China's economy has entered a new era of moderately slowing expansion and a transition to a high-quality growth model. That has pushed economists to reconsider some long-term issues, such as whether the economy would cool down sharply before a considerable rise in wealth, especially after a period of fast growth. "The key method to ensure China's role as a high-income country is to adjust industrial structures and promote productivity," said Zhu Min, an influential Chinese economist and former deputy managing director at the International Monetary Fund. High-tech manufacturing, the service industry and the digital economy will be the new engines for the economy, while some traditional driving forces, such as injecting funds into the market, are losing momentum, Zhu said. China's total GDP exceeded 90 trillion yuan ($13.4 trillion) in 2018, and the per capita GDP was about $9,700. Economists predict that if the country maintains growth of at least 6 percent this year, which is likely given the current momentum, its per capita GDP this year would surpass $10,000. That means China would move closer to the standards for a "high-income country" above $12,736 in per capital GDP set by the World Bank in 2015. However, a productivity slowdown, aging population and unbalanced regional development could be among the "bottlenecks" that constrain China in becoming a high-income country, economists said. Given the pressure of the slowing global economy, a high degree of leveraging maintains the top risk for China's economy, thus measures should continue to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio "in proper order", said Lou Jiwei, chairman of the National Council for Social Security Fund and a former finance minister. It is necessary to build a long-term and efficient mechanism for financial regulation and fiscal supervision, and to prevent potential risks in the property sector, Lou said. The three-day China Development Forum has a guest list of more than 150 international delegates, including global industry leaders. (Newser) As the Brexit imbroglio continues, Theresa May apparently has another issue on her hands: A guy known for bending spoons is planning on using his powers to keep the prime minister from pulling England out of the EU. That would be Israeli-British illusionist Uri Geller, who posted an open letter to May Friday, warning that "I love you very much but I will not allow you to lead Britain into Brexit," per the Guardian. "I feel psychically and very strongly that most British people do not want Brexit," he said in his letter on Facebook. "Although I currently live in Israel I am still a British citizen and feel very passionately about the country." So passionately, in fact, that he's ready to take action if May, whom he says he's known for more than two decades, doesn't acquiesce to his wishes. story continues below "As much as I admire you, I will stop you telepathically from doing this," he notes. "And believe me I am capable of executing this." The Times of Israel notes that Geller has also previously promised to keep Labour chief Jeremy Corbyn from becoming the next prime minister, and Geller mentions that as well in his letter to May. He adds that his telepathic powers have been "validated by the CIA, MI5, and Mossad" and that he has "influenced many high ranking officials around the world"; he also reminds May that he predicted Donald Trump would take the White House in 2016. "Before I take this drastic course of action, I appeal to you to stop the process immediately while you still have a chance," he writes. (Read more Uri Geller stories.) (Newser) The Islamic State caliphate in Syria may finally be toppled after almost five years of battle, at least according to word from US-backed forces there. Per CNN and the Guardian, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces says it has liberated the last ISIS stronghold, the eastern village of Baghouz. The SDF declares "total elimination of so-called caliphate and [100%] territorial defeat of ISIS," SDF spokesman Mustafa Bali tweeted early Saturday. "On this unique day, we commemorate thousands of martyrs whose efforts made the victory possible." SDF members tell CNN that ISIS fighters used women and children as human shields during the final hours of fighting and employed snipers, heat-seeking missiles, and improvised explosive devices to keep SDF forces at bay before their ultimate defeat. story continues below When ISIS was at its peak in Syria, nearly 8 million people were said to have lived under its reign of terror. More than 11,000 SDF fighters are reported to have died during the offensive that started in 2014. CNN asks the question: "Has the battle against ISIS really been won?" The site points out that even though Syria appears to have been set free, ISIS still has roots, via affiliates, in countries like Afghanistan, Libya, the Philippines, and Nigeria, and has been trying to make inroads in remote parts of Iraq. (Read more ISIS stories.) (Newser) The day after Thanksgiving in 2009, James Kahler went to the home of his estranged wife's grandmother, where he shot the two women, along with his two teenage daughters. No onenot even Kahler's attorneysdisputes that he killed the four relatives. Instead, his lawyers argue that he was suffering from depression so severe that he experienced extreme emotional disturbance, dissociating him from reality. What had been an open-and-shut death penalty caseKahler was convicted and sentenced in 2011was upended when the US Supreme Court said this past week that it would consider whether Kansas unconstitutionally abolished his right to use insanity as a defense, the AP reports. A ruling from the nation's highest court could have far-reaching implications for mentally ill defendants across the nation. story continues below Kansas is one of five states where a traditional insanity defense in which a person must understand the difference between right and wrong before being found guilty of a crime isn't allowed. Instead, someone can cite "mental disease or defect" as a partial defense but must prove that he didn't intend to commit the crime. The other states with similar laws are Alaska, Idaho, Montana, and Utah. "A favorable decision in this case would make it clear that the Constitution requires that a defendant be able to understand the difference between right and wrong before being found guilty, and, in cases like Mr. Kahler's, put to death," says his defense attorney, Meryle Carver-Allmond. Kahler's lawyers argue that although Kahler knew he was shooting human beings, his mental state was so disturbed at the time that he was unable to control his actions. (Read more insanity defense stories.) Fairbanks, AK (99707) Today Generally cloudy. High -3F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A few snow showers scattered about the area this evening, otherwise a good deal of clouds. Low -7F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 30%. Barb Ringstad directs residents to the appropriate dumpsters for what they have to dispose of at the Farmers Loop East Transfer Site June 8, 2017. The experimental Peking Opera Turandot is performed in Rome, Italy, February 5, 2019. [Photo/ Xinhua] "Classical stories blending innovative elements provide people a new artistic experience. In the future, I will start to pay more attention to Peking Opera, which is really an ancient and magical stage art, Italian archaeologist Simone said, expressing her love for the Sino-Italian experimental Peking Opera Turandot after its premiere at the Bolzano Theatre in Italy early this year. This new Turandot, adapted from the Italian opera Turandot,is a co-production of the China National Peking Opera Company and the Italian Emilia-Romagna Theater Foundation. Performed by both Chinese and Italian artists, the play incorporates both Chinese and Western drama and music elements, trying to interpret the moving legend of "Chinese Princess" from a new perspective. It toured several Italian cities this year, including Ferrara and Rome. The Peking Opera Turandot serves as another work jointly launched by China and Italy that integrates Chinese and Western art, following the experimental Peking Opera Faust in 2015. It enables Western audiences to appreciate the artistic charm of Chinese Peking Opera in their familiar stories and injects new vitality into Sino-Italian cultural exchanges. Sino-Italian friendship is rooted in the long history of friendly exchanges. In recent years, cultural cooperation between the two countries has maintained a good momentum of development. Especially after the establishment of Sino-Italian cultural cooperation mechanism by the two governments in 2014, the cultural exchanges between the two countries have been gradually enriched, and the fields and levels of cooperation continuously expanded and enhanced. The Daily News-Miner encourages residents to make themselves heard through the Opinion pages. Readers' letters and columns also appear online at newsminer.com. Contact the editor with questions at letters@newsminer.com or call 459-7574. Community Perspective Send Community Perspective submissions by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Submissions must be 500 to 750 words. Columns are welcome on a wide range of issues and should be well-written and well-researched with attribution of sources. Include a full name, email address, daytime telephone number and headshot photograph suitable for publication (email jpg or tiff files at 150 dpi.) You may also schedule a photo to be taken at the News-Miner office. The News-Miner reserves the right to edit submissions or to reject those of poor quality or taste without consulting the writer. Letters to the editor Send letters to the editor by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707), by fax (907-452-7917) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Writers are limited to one letter every two weeks (14 days.) All letters must contain no more than 350 words and include a full name (no abbreviation), daytime and evening phone numbers and physical address. (If no phone, then provide a mailing address or email address.) The Daily News-Miner reserves the right to edit or reject letters without consulting the writer. A member of a sister group of the popular all-girl band AKB48 on Friday criticized the outcome of a probe into an assault against her as "lies," as the group's management company revealed the result. The management company AKS said an investigation launched after Maho Yamaguchi, a 23-year-old member of NGT48, was grabbed by the face by two men at her home in December, found no evidence of the involvement of any member of the group. But Yamaguchi said Friday in a Twitter post that there are members who admitted to having private connections with the attackers. "Why do they continue telling lies," she wrote in the post while company officials were speaking at a press conference for the investigation. "I'm really sad." Maiko Hayakawa, manager of the theater for the Niigata-based group, said at the press conference that Yamaguchi complained about the conclusion of the investigation because it did not reflect her opinions. But AKS will seek to "move forward and continue activities with her for NGT," while it will continue to discuss the matter with her, Hayakawa said. Yamaguchi said in the post that the company had told her that if it found anyone having personal links to fans it would dismiss them all and she had high hopes of the investigation. The number of foreign residents in Japan had risen 6.6 percent at the end of 2018 from a year earlier, to reach a record high of some 2.73 million, Justice Ministry data showed on Friday. The increase in foreign students and technical trainee visa holders, especially from Vietnam, contributed to the overall growth, an official with the ministryas Immigration Bureau said. As of the end of last year, 337,000 non-Japanese were registered as students and another 328,360 were technical interns who had come to Japan under government-sponsored programs a each figure up nearly 20 percent from a year earlier, the official said. Vietnamese, comprising 330,835 residents as of late December, saw the highest growth, up 26.1 percent from a year earlier. aIn case of Vietnamese residents in particular, this tendency is owing to strong growth in the number of technical trainees and those who come to work as engineers or specialists in humanities,a the official said. Of the foreign nationals in the nation, who hail from 195 countries and regions, the Vietnamese community ranked the third-largest group after Chinese residents at 764,720 and South Koreans at 449,634. In addition, Indonesians and Nepalese, also in the top 10, were among the top three strongest growing communities in the past year. As many as 2.4 million foreigners living in Japan were mid- and long-term residents. On November 28, 2018, in Yarong community, Baijin Town of Huishui County, Guizhou Province, Zhao Weiying, the inheritor of the maple scented dyeing technique, was painting the maple scented works.(Photo by Peoples Daily Online) In a dyeing center located in Sanbao Dong stockade of Rongjiang county, Southwest China's Guizhou Province, Lai Lei records various data on a pad including temperature, humidity, air speed, and soaking time. The weaver seems more like a technician conducting a chemical experiment than someone dyeing cloth. Lai was preparing to dye a batch of 24 solar terms cloths. For the last few thousand years, Chinese people have used the 24 solar terms to guide their farming methods. Lai, 46, organizes local women of various ethnic groups in Guizhou to weave traditional Dong cloths with indigo dye. Their products have been exhibited in a number of international fashion shows. I can create 24 different shades of blue corresponding to the 24 solar terms, she told the China Weekly in the dyeing center. The blue appears in various ways in different solar terms under different temperatures and climates. On the first day of the Spring Festival this year, which was the fifth day of the Beginning of Spring, a green nuance can be seen in the indigo cloth, indicating that spring is just around the corner, she said. Lai is the fifth and youngest child of a farmer's family in Sanbao Dong stockade. Lai went to study at Yunnan Arts University then returned to her hometown and became a teacher for the next 15 years. While teaching in a Miao stockade in Rongjiang county, Lai found that her students were particularly good at painting. This was because the stockade still retains traditional wax painting and herb dyeing skills, which astonished her. She decided to learn painting and dyeing from her students mothers. After teaching in the Miao stockade, Lai was transferred to the intangible cultural heritage office of Rongjiang county. Because of her family tradition of weaving Dong cloth, the drawing and dyeing skills learned from the Miao stockade, and her job, Lai decided to be a Dong cloth weaver. Daily living In 2003, Dong cloth weaving skills, wax dyeing and embroidery were included in a list of national-level intangible cultural heritages. When more and more people started coming to Dong stockades in search of the handmade natural cloth that embodied a return to nature and a simple life, Lai realized that it was time to make an effort to hand down the weaving and dyeing skills, otherwise they would be lost. In 2005, Lai and her mother started to learn and improve the traditional weaving and dyeing skills in order to bring the products closer to peoples daily lives. If the cloth we make can only be exhibited in museums, they would not deserve the title of intangible cultural heritage, said Lai. I want it back to peoples daily lives, she said. If they only pursue art, handicraftsmen will starve. Mu Suo Ren Jia is the name of Lais textile workshop. In September, 2012, she established the workshop with a loan of 80,000 yuan ($12,000) from a local rural credit office. Forty local women joined the workshop, using traditional skills to produce cloth, garments, purses, bedding and mats from the cotton planted in the area. The products have been sold outside the mountain in big cities including Beijing and Shanghai, and other countries such as the US and France. In 2013, after being granted 150,000 yuan in subsidies from the local rural credit office for small and micro businesses, Lai decided to let the weavers work at home, occasionally visiting them to collect the products. The move attracted more than 300 women from various local ethnic groups including the Miao, Yao and Dong, since this system allowed them to take care of the elderly and children while working at home. This job helps them grow in confidence and self-esteem, since they become financially independent, said Lai. Passing down tradition Im actually from the first batch of young people to return home to start a business. I came back to repay my family, who had scraped together money to give me a better education, so I wanted to do something to benefit the stockade, said Lai. I had planned to build a road for the village with my savings, and then it occurred to me that organizing them to weave was a better choice. She then thought that with more and more young people working in the city, the precious heritage passed down from their ancestors was in danger of being lost. We were so proud when our cloth first appeared in the Paris Fashion Week in 2013, and people started to noticed that the cloth was from Rongjiang in Guizhou, which is also indigo dyed, said Lai. However, Lai has turned down opportunities to work with top global luxury brands on many occasions, because they wanted her to change the traditional weaving methods, and Lai believed this would not be helpful in preserving Dong cloth weaving skills. I care more about not losing the precious skills from my ancestors, said Lai. Ahead of todays supplementary elections in some states, President Muhammadu Buhari has called on Nigerians to come out en masse and pa... Ahead of todays supplementary elections in some states, President Muhammadu Buhari has called on Nigerians to come out en masse and participate in the exercise. President Buhari, who thanked voters for re-electing him for a second term, said he would never forget their sacrifices in defying harsh weather conditions to vote for him. The president was quoted in a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, as saying: I was deeply overwhelmed by your show of incredible confidence in me, and I will never let you down, thank you for your sincere show of support for me. Buhari appealed to voters not to get tired of coming out to vote in the supplementary elections, adding, These elections are no less important than others before them. He appealed to voters to vote for the candidates they believe will deliver on promises. President Buhari dismissed rumours that he was forcing voters to elect candidates other than those they preferred. He said at no time did he give the instruction that the electorate should vote particular candidates. The president urged INEC and security agencies to ensure that the supplementary elections are conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law and constitution. The Independent National Electoral Commission has put on hold , the supplementary elections in Brass Constituency 1 following a court orde... The Independent National Electoral Commission has put on hold , the supplementary elections in Brass Constituency 1 following a court order.It was gathered that the Federal High Court in Yenagoa had on Friday, ordered the Electoral Commission to include omitted polling units in the supplementary elections in the constituency.In a statement on Saturday, Mr Monday Udoh , the Bayelsa REC , announced that out of the three constituencies earlier scheduled for the polls , election was now holding in two, including Southern - Ijaw IV and Ogbia 11. INEC wishes to inform the good people of Bayelsa that the supplementary polls to conclude results in three constituencies namely: Brass 1, Ogbia 11, and Souther - Ijaw IV , is holding on March 23 with the exception of Brass 1.The conduct of supplementary in Brass 1 , ward 6 polling units 11 - 16 has been put on hold by an interlocutory order of the Federal High Court in Yenagoa in suit No : FHC / YNG /CS /41 / 2019 and dated March 22.The supplementary elections in the other two constituencies are holding as scheduled. We wish to inform that necessary arrangements are already in place for a hitch- free exercise in those two constituencies.As a law - abiding agency , the commission will inform the stakeholders as soon as the court order is dispensed with on Brass constituency 1, the REC explained.( NAN) Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufa, on Friday dismissed the claim by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples ... Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufa, on Friday dismissed the claim by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that he won the presidential election in Kaduna State. President Muhammadu Buhari was declared the winner of the Feb. 23 presidential election by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) having polled 15,191,847 votes, winning in 19 states, to defeat 72 other candidates, including Atiku Abubakar, who scored 11, 255,978 votes. Buhari won in 19 states including Kaduna, Kogi, Niger and Gombe as against Atiku, who won in 17 states and the FCT to occupy the second position. Atiku Abubakar, however, claimed that he won the election in Kogi, Kaduna, Gombe and Niger states that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared were won by President Muhammadu Buhari. Abubakar stated this in his state to state computation contained in his electoral petition filed at the Election Tribunal in Abuja. But, El-Rufai told State House Correspondents that the PDP presidential candidate lost the election in Kaduna state, adding that he will always lose Kaduna, he will lose Kaduna 10 more times because he has never won Kaduna in any presidential election. He said: Let me say this without any fear of contradiction since President Buhari started contesting for the presidency since 2003, he has never lost Kaduna. So, PDP has never won elections in Kaduna from 2003, even with a sitting governor in 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015. It has never happened. I dont know what will happen that Atiku will win Kaduna in these elections this time. He lost Kaduna, he lost very badly, even though about 100,000 votes he claimed to have got were added because elections were conducted without card reader in some parts of the state, thats how he even got up to the 400,000 that he got. The governor, who also dismissed Atikus claim on the result of the presidential election found in INEC server, maintained that the PDP candidate was free to prove his case at the tribunal. `Well, I dont know about INEC server, it must be Atikus server. I dont know about INEC server, we dont know how they had access to it, they will tell us during the tribunal proceedings what is this server and how they got access to it and how they got their numbers. You do not go to court in an election petition by quoting INEC server or any other server. Anyone can create a server, I can go and buy it, it is a piece of equipment and call it INEC server. But that does not mean that it amounts to anything, we are guided by the electoral act and the evidence act and other enabling legislation and he has to prove his case. But anyone can make claims we live in the age of fake news and fake claims. Anyone can make claims but you have to prove it, he added. The governor, who said that he was in the Presidential Villa to inform President Buhari that he was never involved in an accident as being falsely reported, said he also discussed issues relating to his state with the president. He said: I came to see Mr President after my re-election as governor because immediately after the election I took a break. I came back to report to him that I was not involved in an accident, Im alive, I am not in a coma and also to discuss other issues related to my state. El-Rufai advised the citizens to always avoid forwarding stories that had not been verified, saying that he was neither involved in an accident nor went into a coma as being speculated. He disclosed that security personnel had intensified efforts to trace the originators of the fake story with a view to prosecuting them to serve as a deterrent to others. My advice to everyone in Nigeria is to avoid forwarding stories that have not been verified. Social media provides a platform for disseminating information but it is also a platform for dissemination of lies and hatred. We should be very careful that we dont use this platform to advance the cause of the enemies of this country. I was never involved in any accident, I was not near any accident, In fact at a time I was supposed to be involved in an accident, I was in an aircraft going to another country. But somebody sat and concocted this story and we are trying to trace who started it. Because criminal proceedings can be initiated against the person. Sometimes it is very difficult to know who started it but we are on it. My advice is that we should rely on reliable news medium, not just any platform or any blog. Unless we hear something from a very reliable news medium, we should be reluctant to begin sharing it as if it is true, he said. Raymond Dokpesi, founder of DAAR Communications, owners of African Independent television (AIT), has been released. T he media mog... Raymond Dokpesi, founder of DAAR Communications, owners of African Independent television (AIT), has been released. T he media mogul, who was returning to the country, after seeking medical treatment in Dubai, was arrested by security operatives at Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja. he media mogul, who was returning to the country, after seeking medical treatment in Dubai, was arrested by security operatives at Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja. But a tweet on AITs official Twitter handle on Friday evening said the Dokpesi was released after over an hour of detention. The tweet reads, Media magnate, Raymond Dokpesi, has been released after over an hour of detention at the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja, on Friday afternoon. Researchers find method to prioritize treatment strategies in hepatitis C in US prisons Key takeaway: New research identifies guidelines for prioritizing the treatment of hepatitis C infections in the U.S. prison system, resulting in a significant improvement in health outcomes of incarcerated persons while simultaneously reducing new infections in the society. CATONSVILLE, MD, March 21, 2019 - There are currently more than three million people in the United States with hepatitis C, a condition that can lead to serious and even deadly liver complications. In the U.S. prison system, the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is currently 10 times higher than the national average. And while new HCV treatment drugs are very effective, their high cost along with very limited healthcare budget in prisons impedes universal treatment in prisons. However, new research in the INFORMS journal Operations Research, has identified new protocols that could substantially decrease HCV infection in the U.S. prison system. The study, "Prioritizing Hepatitis C Treatment in U.S. Prisons," was conducted by Turgay Ayer of the Georgia Institute of Technology, Can Zhang of Duke University, Anthony Bonifonte of Denison University, Anne C. Spaulding of Emory University, and Jagpreet Chhatwal of Harvard Medical School. While the prevalence of HCV infection in the general population is only 1-2 percent, within the prison system the prevalence of antibodies to hepatitis C jumps to 17 percent. This is primarily due to the fact that many HCV-infected people are current or past injection drug users (IDU). Nearly 80 percent of all HCV transmissions are IDU-related transmissions, and most Americans who inject drugs have been incarcerated at some point during their lives. Currently the biggest barrier to treating persons in prison with HCV is that while the newest medications have a higher than 95 percent cure rate (versus a 50 percent cure rate of previous treatments), the cost of treatment is outrageously high. When the new treatments were approved in 2015, their cost was $84,000 per treatment course. Since then, the prices have come down to around $25,000. However, even at this price, treating incarcerated persons could cost $3.3 billion. Because the healthcare budget is very limited, only 1-13 percent of HCV-infected persons in prison receive treatment currently. Because of the cost/budget constraints, prisons often prioritize patients for HCV treatment. The current approach emphasizes liver stage , and often ignores other factors such as their risk of transmission, age, etc. The study's authors identified a new protocol to prioritize treatment among HCV-infected persons in the prison population to optimize the effect of HCV treatment on overall society's well-being. Their solution systematically considers factors including liver health state, remaining sentence length, propensity to inject drugs, age, disease progression over time, and reinfection rates. "We found that by simultaneously considering health state, remaining sentence length, IDU status, and age in prioritization, decisions can lead to a significant decrease in hepatitis C-caused mortality and infections both in correctional health systems and in the community," said Ayer. This new system offers an alternative to the current controversial patient prioritization protocol, which focuses on liver status, or the level of scarring on the patient's liver. "Ideally, prisons would be allocated enough resources to treat everyone infected," said Spaulding, a public health physician-researcher, who has been working with incarcerated persons living with HCV since 1996. "In the meantime, this algorithm is designed to maximize the public health outcome of treatment." "Due to the simplicity in implementing prioritization policy, our work is appealing to multiple stakeholders within the U.S. prison system, including medical directors and policy makers at the prisons," continued Ayer. "Ultimately, by reducing the prevalence of hepatitis C in the prison population, we are reducing the chances of persons spreading the disease in the general population once they return to society." ### The full study can be found at https:/ / pubsonline. informs. org/ stoken/ default+domain/ OPRE-PR-03-2019/ full/ 10. 1287/ opre. 2018. 1812 . About INFORMS and Operations Research INFORMS is the leading international association for operations research and analytics professionals. Operations Research, one of 16 journals published by INFORMS, is a leading academic journal that presents high-quality papers that represent the true breadth of the methodologies and applications that define O.R. More information is available at http://www. informs. org or @informs. This story has been published on: 2019-03-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The aerial photo shows terraces, new houses as well as new road network of a village in Wusheng county, Guangan, southwest Chinas Sichuan province, March 16, 2019. (Photo: Peoples Daily Online) Southwestern Chinas Chongqing municipality, putting great efforts on attracting talents in rural areas, witnessed huge improvement in its rural revitalization work in recent years. Xiong Xiong, a young designer of Chongqing Planning and Design Institute, was one of the many that are attracted to work in the rural part of the municipality. He is among the first batch of Chongqings village designers, and started working at Huashi village, Jindai township of Chongqings Liangping district since last June. Xiong, born in the urban area, gave all of him to the village in the past 9 months, from village planning, to the renovation of local water supply and lavatories. Though he has caught the sun when working in the village, he is happy about what he has done. Its worthy to do what I can for the villagers, Xiong said. Talent is the key to revitalizing China's rural areas. By thoroughly implements the guidance of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Chongqing takes talent construction as a priority for the work of rural revitalization. It not only attracts professionals from other regions of the country, but also nurtures talents of its own. Guiding talents to the rural areas, Chongqing has created a powerful force to revitalize the countryside. Making full use of related policies such as poverty alleviation, Chongqing attracted over 8,900 rural talents back to their hometown to lead the locals for entrepreneur projects. Meanwhile, Chongqing carried out a series of trainings for the villagers, hoping to turn them into professional farmers, young ranch owners, and e-commerce talents. A batch of rural entrepreneurs are playing their due roles in the countryside. Zhang Youhua is one of the returnees. He rented a 200-hectare farming land and established an ecological agriculture in his hometown Yongchuan district of Chongqing. His business did not go well at the very beginning, as the sales dropped after a peak in August. It even became a headache for him when he settled account at the year end. Fortunately, the agriculture committee of Yongchuan district recommended him to a training course, during which he received expert lectures and attended field investigations. It largely broadened Zhangs horizon. He built a workshop for processing lotus leaves, upgraded his ecological park, and made the park a base for tour study and research. Now Im always kept busy by the business, and I have to recruit more villagers, he said, adding that his gross income hit 20 million yuan last year. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kano State has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the re-... The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kano State has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the re-run governorship election ongoing across the 28 local government areas of the state, alleging that thugs have taken over the process. The Acting Chairman of the party, Rabiu Sulaiman-Bichi, made the call while addressing a news conference in Kano on Saturday. Bichi said there was need for the commission to cancel the election as the process had completely been taken over by armed political thugs. Today this charade called re-run election was slated to hold in Kano and other states but unfortunately, what we have in Kano is nothing but a sham. Reports reaching us since yesterday indicated that thugs have allegedly been mobilised to take over all the 208 polling units,he said. According to him, the thugs were allegedly brought from Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Plateau and other neighbouring states and were armed to the teeth posing as voters in the polling units in the localities. The chairman alleged that the thugs freely voted with the PVCs that did not belong to them, while some posed as INEC staff. A front line contender for the Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan, on Saturday gave reasons why he is most suited to occupy the exa... A front line contender for the Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan, on Saturday gave reasons why he is most suited to occupy the exalted position. Lawan told journalists in Abuja that the Senate under his watch will work in partnership with the executive arm of government to make the country better through legislative engineering. The Yobe North Senator, who spoke in company with some of his colleagues, believed that the All Progressive Congress (APC) by its clear majority in the Senate was positioned to produce the Senate President. Lawan, who is also the Senate Leader, noted that the briefing was essentially to declare that he has something unique to offer as the Senate President of the ninth Session. He said that there is need to emphasise the necessity to make the Senate more productive and more focused in its legislative business. He said, This interaction is important. After the elections, the APC emerged as the party with the majority. We thank God. APC will be in the majority from 2019-2023. In fact, we have made more progress than we did in 2015. We have about 65-66 senators-elect. Just like in 2015 when we sought to lead the Senate, we have come to the conclusion that we have something to offer by leading the Senate and the entire National Assembly. We are not under any illusions. We know that this requires a lot in terms of momentum and work we have to do to make Nigeria better through legislative interventions. Also by working with other arms of the government. You have known us for a long time. You know our strengths and weaknesses. We need to project what we want to offer. We need to tell Nigerians what we can do. We need everyone in this journey of four years we will embark on soon. I am asking for cooperation, support and understanding of everyone. We want to work for everyone to ensure that Nigeria is better and ensure that we receive the fairest deal from government. By the grace of God, we make serious positive changes. Nigerians voted for change. They have renewed their commitment to APC this year. It means that Nigerians have faith in us. I thank Nigerians for keeping faith with us in this dispensation. What we are doing is to reach out to our colleagues, either elected or outgoing. We are talking to them about our mission and why we are campaigning to lead the National Assembly. We are telling them why we need to make the Senate more productive and more focused. APC senators are so critical. We are reaching out to senators from other political parties. We are going to be talking about it much later. Let me say that we are senators who believe in party supremacy. We believe in the leadership of our party. The leadership we are seeking is that of the Senate and the National Assembly. On how to avoid the June 9th, 2015 experience when Bukola Saraki emerged Senate president against the position of the APC that had majority in the Senate he said: APC must have learnt its lessons. The leadership of the party will do something differently. I am sure that our leaders will manage the huge success of APC. The party will find us very compliant and supportive. Asked what in specific terms, Nigerians should expect from him if he emerges the Senate President, he said: This is the most basic issue. Let me say that I believe in what my party does. The current President campaigned on security, anti-corruption and the economy. We have remained consistent as a party and an administration. Our main task will be to support the President and the party to implement the campaign promises. We want an economy that will ensure an all inclusive growth. Our main constituency as a progressive party is the ordinary people. It doesnt means that the elite are not with them. But those who worked for our success are those ordinary people. It is crucial for our administration to come up with programmes that will make life better for us. We will also support those in the private sector so they can create jobs. We have worked hard as a government in the last four years. We want to work harder going forward so that our youths can get jobs that will grow the economy. We have social investment programmes. We will have some reforms in that sector so it can deliver well. Agriculture is one area we have worked on. Today, Nigeria doesnt import rice anymore. What that means is that, the billions of dollars spent on importation are now within this country. In every part of the country, we produce so much rice. That is wealth creation. Even though we have challenges in that area, we have done well. We have areas of concerns in the security sector. We need to support the Executive to always ensure that we improve on it. When we came to government in 2015, so many parts of the country were under the control of Boko Haram insurgents. We want to see a situation where the security architecture of the country can be reformed. I headed the security architecture ad-hoc committee in the Senate. We submitted our report. The report recommended reforms in our armed forces. It is not about giving money. We must have a structure that will utilise monies released prudently. Where the Executive feels they need intervention, we will legislate. It is our mission to ensure that this administration continues to fight against corruption. Most of the things we are suffering in this country, it is because people have stolen public funds. When you are able to curtail the excesses in that regard, we will move forward. We should be proactive. We will legislate to ensure that it will be difficult for people to steal in the public and private sectors. As a country, why cant we have an anti-corruption court? We need to fast track legal processes and ensure that those found guilty of any corruption charges are jailed instead of waiting for up to 10 years. This gives the people the confidence to steal since they know that our anti-corruption laws are weak. These are areas we will focus on. We will focus on our education. We will review it to conform with the current day reality. We will ensure that our graduates get a good deal. We will look at law reforms. Those that require total overhaul will get that. We have to have a bipartisan chamber. We will disagree from time to time because of some issues. But because we are senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we will remain united. I was in the opposition for 16 before we became part of the party in government. Even as an opposition, we knew when to oppose and support the government. Take for instance security. Is there any senator who will oppose the improvement on security? We will work to achieve the desired unity. There will be equity and fairness in the chamber. Once we unit around national interest, we will contribute meaningfully to governance. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to appoint a substa... The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to appoint a substantive minister for the petroleum sector in his second term. Mr. Francis Johnson, PENGASSAN President made the appeal while fielding questions from journalists on Friday in Lagos on the associations National Executive Council (NEC) held on Thursday. According to Johnson, separating both offices will allow for a more efficient and effective management of the oil and gas sector. It will be recalled that in the last four years, President Buhari had combined his position with that of petroleum minister, while Ibe Kachukwu, was appointed minister of state for petroleum. Stakeholders had argued that the combination of the office of the President and minister of petroleum was not in the interest of the economy, as he was bogged down with enormous responsibilities to pay enough attention to a sector that was the main stay of the nations economy. He commended the incumbent administrations efforts to the fight corruption and urged it to sustain the tempo. NEC-in-Session believes that the fight against corruption should not be allowed to shrink but rather sustained to cover all sectors and maintain the gains of the present dispensation. NEC-in-Session demands that government should make all efforts to see that all recovered looted funds are accounted for and re-invested in the economy to reduce unemployment, Johnson said. On human capital development and labour issues, he urged the government to channel the human capital potential of citizens toward optimising productivity and economic growth of a nation that all craved for. He said that the union had vowed to confront all industrial issues with utmost seriousness, as the general elections were over and warned all recalcitrant companies violating the Nigerian laws to brace up for a rude awakening. ROME, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Italy is very important and will boost the two countries' commercial relationship, a senior Italian official said Thursday. In an interview with Xinhua, Michele Geraci, undersecretary of state for economic development, said his country wants to enhance economic ties with China for mutual benefits. During Xi's visit, which started Thursday, the two sides are expected to sign intergovernmental cooperation documents in such fields as diplomacy, economy and trade, and culture, as well as commercial areas concerning infrastructure, machinery and finance, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. "We hope Italian and Chinese companies get to know each other more, and explore more business opportunities for mutual advantages," said Geraci, who heads the Italian government's Task Force China. Launched in October, Task Force China aims to boost economic relations with China by pursuing "more access to the Chinese market, better quality products, and more investment." Geraci said the new body helps Italian firms, particularly small- and medium-sized enterprises, better understand the Chinese market by informing them of new cooperation opportunities as well as changes in Chinese policies and laws. "We will try to organize business meetings for Italian and Chinese companies, so they can go down into more details and explore some opportunities," said the undersecretary, who used to be an investment banker and spent around 10 years in China. The expanding middle class in China wants good-quality food, and "there are good producers of food and agricultural machinery in Italy," which can lead to r cooperation in agricultural business, said Geraci. Meanwhile, "we want to attract investment; that is beneficial to our economy," added the Italian official. "Chinese investments are very much welcome." He stressed that a plan has been made to attract Chinese investments, particularly green-field ones, which will bring much more than just new employment. "Chinese companies may be interested in Italian ports," he said. "We are planning to expand the capacity of existing ports," like Trieste in northeast Italy and Palermo in Sicily. Geraci said similarities in Chinese and Mediterranean culture are good starting to further bilateral economic cooperation. Italy is set to be the first G7 country to join the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by signing on to the initiative with China, a development that is expected to meet the respective needs of both sides. From the perspective of China, promoting the BRI, or expanding China's global economic cooperation, will allow it to build more ports that can handle large-scale container ships. Except for Piraeus Port in Greece, which has been acquired by China's Cosco, there aren't many large-scale container hub ports in Europe. In fact, China's investment interest in European ports is mainly because ports that can accommodate large container ships carrying Chinese goods can not only reduce the costs of trade transactions and logistics but can also help increase Chinese exports to European countries. Against the backdrop of the US-China trade war, the move could be seen as China's attempt to seek diverse export markets. In this sense, Italy's plan of joining the BRI is essential for China. From the Italian side, the country's economy hasn't fundamentally recovered from the 2008 financial crisis and the European debt crisis. Despite some recovery, its overall economic performance has not been very satisfying. Under these circumstances, Italy's new populist government is now committed to improving people's livelihood and boosting economic growth, which is why foreign investment is urgently welcome. Meanwhile, port cooperation with Chinese investors will lead to increased freight volume, bringing substantial economic benefits to its economy. Moreover, with multiple ports, Italy has great geographical advantages in the Mediterranean region. Therefore, port cooperation between Italy and China under the BRI framework is of strategic significance to both sides as it will allow Chinese goods to enter the European market through the ports of Venice and Ravenna, representing a considerable reduction in logistics costs between China and Europe. The big picture that has to be mentioned is that the EU is currently pushing for a harder line on China across the board. A few days ago, the European Commission published a joint communication on the EU-China strategic outlook. In addition to setting out 10 concrete actions for EU leaders to discuss at their next meeting, the communication set a defensive tone toward China by calling it "an economic competitor in pursuit of technological leadership and a systemic rival promoting alternative models of governance." Apparently, the EU is likely to put pressure on China on some trade issues. Nevertheless, Italy seems to have different values and standards from other EU countries as its new populist government sings a different tune on many issues. In fact, the EU is experiencing an internal differentiation due to the rise of populism in some countries, such as Italy. However, Italy's open expression of its willingness to join the BRI indicates that its populist leaders are quite pragmatic and are really concerned about bringing benefits to their people. They are more motivated to boost the country's economy because their power comes from the people. As for how the BRI could boost Italy's exports to China, it is certain that progress will be made in this respect. China has already begun preparations for the second China International Import Expo, a platform representing its welcoming attitude toward high-quality foreign products. Meanwhile, there are already many China-Europe express freight trains running between Chinese and European cities. It is also believed that port construction under the BRI will inject new vitality into the country's export development. Finally, Italy's plan of joining the BRI could be a major example for some pragmatic countries to abandon their ideological thinking. There is no doubt that the move by Italy is bound to add momentum to its economy. If the cooperation could yield some substantial gains in the short term, the BRI will become really attractive to other EU countries - not just those in Central and Eastern Europe, but also Western European countries with interest in the BRI. Of course, the choice to join the BRI is still up to each country. Some countries are more cautious, while others may be more flexible or pragmatic. But since Italy, as a major EU country, is willing to take the first step, it won't be the last one. A Sino-European joint space mission known as SMILE was launched Friday, March 22, 2019. [Photo: nssc.ac.cn] BEIJING, March 22 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) announced that a Sino-European joint space mission known as SMILE was launched Friday. The Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer is a comprehensive collaboration between the CAS and the European Space Agency (ESA). Satellites will be launched by 2023 to study the impact of solar activity on the Earth's environment. Wang Chi, director of National Space Science Center under the CAS, said the SMILE program would create images of interaction between solar winds and the Earth's magnetosphere with innovative X-ray and ultraviolet technologies. It will achieve an overall imaging of large-scale structure of the Earth's space, which plays an important role in predicting and mitigating weather disasters, according to Wang. SMILE has gathered the world's leading resources in space weather. The UK Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency will also participate. China and Europe are responsible for the construction and operation of the application system. The data obtained by satellites in orbit will be available to all participating countries. Apple CEO Tim Cook visits the Palace Museum during his visit to Beijing on Friday, March 22, 2019. [Photo provided to China News by Apple Inc.] China seems to stay on track of its opening-up and promote globalization efforts, Apple CEO Tim Cook said on Saturday at a high-profile forum in Beijing. You have opened doors to us and allowed us to be part of the community here, Cook said while delivering a speech at the Economic Summit of the China Development Forum (CDF) 2019 in Beijing. China will continue its push for opening-up, noted Cook, who has attended the CDF for three years running, an indication of the iPhone makers rising focus on the China market. Now, iPhone sales are facing a fiercer competition with Chinas home brands including Xiaomi and Huawei devices. Cook stated that his company is not worried about short-term prospects. He addressed the challenges at a macro level. In the short run, therere some obvious challenges around the world. The good thing is many of the challenges can be fixed by cooperation ... in the long term, the key to any economy has always been innovation. Meanwhile, Han Wenxiu, executive deputy director of the General Office of the Central Financial and Economic Affairs Commission, vowed that Chinas doors will be more widely opened to foreign investors in the services sector. Support measures will be implemented for the newly passed Foreign Investment Law and the Chinese government will continue to push ahead on free trade zones and free trade ports, according to Han. More than 150 foreign delegates made their presence at this years CDF, and roughly two-thirds of them are chairmen or CEOs of Fortune 500 enterprises or renowned global industry leaders, according to the forum. Rescuers work at the site of an explosion at a chemical industrial park in Xiangshui County of Yancheng, east China's Jiangsu Province, March 22, 2019. The death toll from an explosion in a chemical plant in east China's Jiangsu Province has risen to 64 as of 7 a.m. Saturday, authorities said. (Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng) A chemical explosion in Xiangshui county, East China's Jiangsu Province has claimed 64 lives with dozens critically wounded. The major accident occurred not long after the blast in Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province on November 28, 2018. As of Friday evening, 34 people were still in critical condition and 28 remain missing. Around 640 are receiving medical treatment in hospitals. Chinese President Xi Jinping said all-out efforts must be made to search for those trapped, the injured must be treated immediately, and relief work must be properly done to maintain social stability. The State Council, China's cabinet, formed an investigation team to probe the deadly explosion. Officials from China's emergency management, ecology and environment ministries have sent work teams to the site. The explosion ripped through a factory at the Chenjiagang industrial park at 2:48 pm on Thursday. Beijing Youth Daily reported that benzene was the explosive chemical, and the blast might have been caused by incorrect operations. In 2007, an explosion at the Chenjiagang industrial park killed eight and injured over a dozen others. Fire at three storage tanks and five other places were extinguished by 7 am on Friday. Around 930 firefighters rushed to Xiangshui for rescue work after the explosion. Shockwaves from the explosion smashed windows from nearby buildings and homes, witnesses told the Global Times. A witness, Zhang Weibin, told the Global Times that there was a bad odor close to the explosion site on Friday afternoon. He said the explosion was like an earthquake, saying his car shook when it occurred. Nitrogen oxide levels in the air were double the normal level. Rivers around the explosion were contaminated and have been sealed off, said Jiangsu's environment authorities. Over 3,000 company employees and residents from nearby villages were evacuated. Schools and kindergartens suspended classes after the explosion, according to the website of the Yancheng government, which administers Xiangshui county. Problematic company The plant belongs to Jiangsu Tianjiayi Chemical Company. Established in 2007, it was punished in 2015 for failing to put warning signs on hazard waste. From 2016 to 2018, Tianjiayi received six administrative punishments from Xiangshui's environment bureau for air pollution and discharging waste against rules, news site jiemian.com reported. Information on China's Ministry of Emergency Management's website shows that the company was urged to rectify 13 safety hazards during an inspection in February 2018, including the lack of warning signs and contingency measures for benzene leaks. A local court slapped a fine of 1 million yuan ($149,000) on the company in January 2017 for contaminating the environment. It also sentenced the company's chairman Zhang Qinyue to 18 months in jail with a two-year probation, Beijing Youth Daily reported. The company's problematic history has triggered wide concern and criticism online, with netizens urging stricter management. "Those problematic factories should be shut down immediately until safety hazards are completely cleared. The lives of firefighters, staff and residents are not a joke," wrote Sina Weibo user TheLancet-Vivian. "The pain of losing family members could last a lifetime, and it should be a strong warning that safety always comes first and should not be sacrificed for profits or political progress," said net user "Wangyi." A total of 728 people have died in 620 chemical accidents in China from 2016 to 2018, with the most frequent accidents being explosions and intoxication, The Beijing News reported Friday. "It's not the fault of the chemical factory or the industry, but those who fail to do their job right and ignore safety regulations," said net user "Xianli" from Nantong, Jiangsu. "The management of raw materials, as well as production supervision, storage and transportation of chemical products must be strictly implemented to prevent safety hazards, and people who violate standards should be held accountable. That's what we need to pay attention to, instead of running away from developing industry after the incident," said Zhi Zhenfeng, a legal expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Zhi told the Global Times as society develops, the public cares more about the results and efficiencyof social governance, and is more critical and alert of formalism and bureaucratism. There's no doubt that those responsible for the accident will be held accountable, while the local government's approach to addressing similar emergency cases should be improved and must immediately respond to situations the public cares most about, experts said. 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. The Ghana National Chamber of Licensed Banker to Banker Lotto Operators and Agents(GNCLBBLOA) led by Mr. Frank Adjei would like to state emphatically that, the Chamber has absolutely nothing to do with Kwaku Duah-Tawiah and the Concerned Lotto Agents Association of Ghana (CLAAG). We wish to set the record straight that CLAAG led by kwaku Duah-Tawiah is Not and can never be the mouthpiece of all Private Lotto Operators and Agents across the country. The Chamber does not recognize CLAAG and Kwaku Duah-Tawiah, and we urge the general public to totally ignore his reckless utterances. The Ghana National Chamber of Licensed Banker to Banker Lotto Operators and Agents welcomed the One Million Ghana Cedis License Fee and as a matter of fact, we were the first group in Ghana to pay to the National Lottery Authority the said License Fee as a pre-requisite for the registration, validation and granting of license. We are of the view that such a laudable initiative would help to: 1. Create legitimate lottery businesses. 2. Expand the operations of Lottery industry. 3. Ensure equity and standardization in the lottery operations. 4. Bring sanity to the Lottery Industry. 5. Generate substantial revenue for Government. 6. Create a lot of employment opportunities for the youth. We would like to urge the NLA and Government to cause the arrest and prosecution of illegal Lotto Operators and Agents who refuse to take the advantage of the opportunity that NLA gave in order to serve as a deterrent to all illegal Lotto Operators and Agents. We are there to support any Government to succeed and we will never be an obstacle to any Government. CLAAG is not associated with GNCLBBLOA. We have no affiliation with Kwaku Duah-Tawiah and CLAAG. And the Chamber would like to put it on record that CLAAG and Kwaku Duah-Tawiah do not have any mandate to speak on behalf of Private Lotto Operators and Agents in Ghana. We are on course and patiently waiting for our license from NLA. The Chamber fully supports the License Fee of One Million Ghana Cedis for Private Lotto Operators who want to operate nationwide. ...Signed... Mr. Frank Adjei (Leader/Executive Chairman) Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A week after the flooded Mozambican port of Beira was hit by Cyclone Idai, cases of cholera have been recorded, a humanitarian aid group said on Friday. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) warned of the risk of other outbreaks, already noting an increase in malaria. The storm has so far killed 557 people across Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi, but the death toll is expected to rise. Idai made landfall near Beira with 177km/h (106 mph) winds on 14 March. Aid workers are slowly delivering relief but conditions are said to be extremely difficult, with some areas completely inaccessible and a scarcity of helicopters. Some 1.7 million people are said to be affected across southern Africa, with no electricity or running water in areas where homes have been swept away and roads destroyed by the floods. "There is growing concern among aid groups on the ground of potential disease outbreaks," the IFRC statement said. "Already, some cholera cases have been reported in Beira along with an increasing number of malaria infections among people trapped by the flooding." Cholera, which is endemic in Mozambique, is spread by water contaminated by sewage, and can kill within hours if left untreated. "There's stagnant water, it's not draining, decomposing bodies, lack of good hygiene and sanitation," Henrietta Fore, the head of Unicef who is in Mozambique, told AFP news agency. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), David Asante-Apeatu, on Friday said commanders will soon be posted to the six newly created Regions. This he said was part of the Ghana Police Services initiative to bring policing to the door-step of the ordinary Ghanaian. He said this in his welcome address at the 2018 West Africa Soldiers Social Activity (WASSA) celebration in Accra. Mr Asante-Apeatu said the posting of these new officers would ensure that the arrival of new political appointees to these regions was on a solid security platform. He said the commanders would be assigned with the responsibility to conduct holistic security assessments in collaboration with other sister security agencies within those jurisdictions. He added that the creation of the six new regions by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo had enhanced the decentralization process, which anchored the nations democracy. Mr. AsanteApeatu said, the Police administration was poised to avoid delays in the promotion of police personnel, saying, we will untiringly continue to roll out self-centered policies to ensure that officers who are due for promotion are timeously promoted. The IGP said the advent of social media had led to a better-informed population and improved upon crime reporting statistics, which had resulted in the building of accurate data for planning and operations, and helped reduce crime. He gave the assurance that the police would rid the country of vigilantism and commended what he described as the unwavering political will demonstrated by President Nana Akufo-Addo in support of the polices resolve. Mr. Asante-Apeatu expressed his appreciation to the media for their support in educating the public on police work. President Nana Akufo-Addo; Ministers of state, members of the diplomatic corps and other dignitaries, attended the event. WASSA is celebrated by the Police Administration annually to close off the immediate past year and to welcome the new one. It also serves as a break from hard work during which stock is taken of activities in the preceding year to review lessons learnt and chart a new path into the next year. The occasion is mainly a colourful one with music and lots of fun. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Once again, Atlanta rules the world. At least its airport does. More than 107 million passengers flew through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport last year, making it the busiest passenger airport in the world for the 21st year in a row. Atlanta also saw a 3.3% increase in passenger traffic, according to Airports Council International's preliminary world traffic report, which was released on March 13. Globally, passenger traffic increased to 8.8 billion last year, an estimated 6% increase, while air cargo shipments increased by 3.2%. Passenger traffic at the world's 20 busiest airports grew by 4.7% in 2018 with more than 1.5 billion passengers flying through those airports. "It is heartening to see that global passenger traffic growth has remained resilient in the face of an increasingly tense and challenging geopolitical climate," said ACI World Director General Angela Gittens in a news release. "With the cost of travel decreasing in many markets, and a burgeoning middle class growing in emerging markets, passenger traffic growth has remained irrepressible," said Gittens. "Indeed, ACI's global medium-term forecasts reveal growth in demand for air services between 2018 to 2023 will grow by almost 30%. This means many national governments face the predicament of demand outstripping available airport infrastructure." But Gittens warned of the impact of protectionist policies around the world. "Aviation is strongly linked to the global economy and to local development, however, and the protectionist rhetoric that has swept several Western countries will continue to restrain growth in the efficient flow of people, goods and services," she said. "The ongoing trade war between the United States and several of its closest trade partners was a shock for the industry and global supply chains." Major connecting hub Atlanta continues to dominate the passenger market because of its location as a major connecting hub and port of entry into North America. It's within a two-hour flight of 80% of the United States population of more than 300 million people. The airport could be facing some bumps in the road, however, as the Georgia State senate recently voted to take over control of the airport from the city of Atlanta. It's not clear that the Georgia House of Representatives will follow suit. The CEO of Delta Air Lines, the dominant tenant at the Atlanta airport, which is its hub, has expressed opposition to a state takeover. Coming in second place, Beijing Capital International Airport passed the 100 million passengers mark in 2018, hitting nearly 101 million passengers and growing by 5.4%. Third place Dubai Airport handled 89 million passengers, increasing by only 1%. (Dubai was also the top-ranked airport for international passenger traffic, followed by London's Heathrow Airport and Hong Kong International Airport. Chicago's O'Hare International Airport knocked Atlanta out of the No. 1 spot for most aircraft movements, which is airport language for takeoffs and landings. O'Hare handled nearly 904,000 movements in 2018. Atlanta handled more than 895,000 movements, and Los Angeles International Airport handled nearly 708,000 movements. The top 20 airports for aircraft movements grew by 2.4% in 2018. Hong Kong remains the largest air cargo airport, handling more than 5.1 million metric tonnes of cargo in 2018, a 1.4% increase over the previous year, followed by the Memphis International Airport (Tennessee, US) and China's Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Rapid growth India overtook Japan to become the world's third-largest aviation market in terms of passenger throughput, behind the United States and China, according to a new ACI analysis. Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi is evidence of that trend, leaping from 16th place to 12th place in the latest rankings, with 69.9 million passengers. The world's busiest airports 2018 1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Georgia, US) -- 107.4 million passengers 2. Beijing Capital International Airport (China) -- 101 million 3. Dubai International Airport (United Arab Emirates) -- 89.1 million 4. Los Angeles International Airport (California, US) -- 87.5 million 5. Tokyo's Haneda Airport (Japan) -- 87.1 million 6. Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (Illinois, US) -- 83.3 million 7. London's Heathrow Airport (United Kingdom) -- 80.1 million 8. Hong Kong International Airport (China) -- 74.5 million 9. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (China) -- 74 million 10. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (France) -- 72.2 million 11. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Netherlands) -- 71 million 12. New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (India) -- 69.9 million 13. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (China) -- 69.8 million 14. Frankfurt Airport (Germany) -- 69.5 million 15. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (Texas, US) -- 69.1 million 16. Seoul's Incheon International Airport (South Korea) -- 68.4 million 17. Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport (Turkey) -- 68.2 million 18. Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Indonesia) -- 66.9 million 19. Singapore Changi Airport (Singapore) -- 65.6 million 20. Denver International Airport (Colorado, US) -- 64.5 million Source: CNN 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 XIANGSHUI, Jiangsu, March 23 -- An investigation team of the State Council, China's cabinet, has pledged to leave no stones unturned in the probe of the deadly chemical plant explosion in east China's Jiangsu Province. The team, led by vice emergency management minister Huang Ming, said Saturday at a meeting that authorities will hold all those behind the fatal blast accountable. It urged tougher supervision on the production and storage of hazardous chemical substances and strengthened enforcement of safety regulations. It also ordered a comprehensive check of safety hazards in key sectors including dangerous chemicals, coal mines and road transport and urged solid efforts in preventing major accidents. The explosion happened at about 2:48 p.m. Thursday following a fire that broke out in a plant owned by Jiangsu Tianjiayi Chemical Co. Ltd., in a chemical industrial park in Xiangshui County in the city of Yancheng. The death toll from the explosion has risen to 64 as of 7 a.m. Saturday, authorities said. The chemical plant had a history of safety violations and received repeated punishment, but its management failed to amend the illicit practices, which led to the fatal accident, investigators said. Seven Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining in Ghana have been arrested by the monitoring team of the Inter- MinisterialCommittee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM). Including one female, they were arrested on Friday in the Upper Denkyira West District of the Central Region and Nkasim near Goaso in the Ahafo Region in two separate operations. Three Ghanaians who were supporting their operations have also been arrested. The operation led by the head of the taskforce, Mr Francis Assibi Abu, also seized some equipment after more than three hours haunt for them. They have since been handed over to the Obuasi Police Command in the Ashanti region for action. They are to be processed and sent to the Immigration headquarters in Accra for further action. Mr Assibi Abu, explained that the operation followed a tip-off by some residents. The Chinese were mining between Mfantseman-Takyikrom in the Upper Denkyira West District and at Hwidiem-Nkasim in the Ahafo region respectively. He said his team had to mobilize themselves quickly to clamp them down. Mr Assibi Abu urged the public to volunteer information to help weed such characters from the system. Source: Graphic.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has invited the Parliament of Ghana to the 20 years Anniversary Celebration of his enstoolment that will be climaxed on April 21, Easter Sunday in Kumasi. The anniversary which would be a month-long celebration has various programmes and activities. Nana Susubiribi Krobea Asante, Asokorehene and leader of the delegation informed the Speaker and Leadership of the House of the upcoming anniversary, during a courtesy call on Parliament in Accra. He explained that the major part of the anniversary would be the grand durbar of chiefs and people at Manhyia Palace on Easter Sunday. He said the delegation had informed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former Presidents Jerry John Rawlings, John Agyekum Kufuor and John Dramani Mahama and would also call on the Chief Justice to invite her to the occasion. He said many invited dignitaries such as Ambassadors, High Commissioners among others were expected to attend the event. Mr Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the Majority Leader assured delegation that the leadership of the House would be present to celebrate with the Otumfuo and Asanteman. The Speaker, Professor Mike Oquaye commended the Asantehene for displaying the rich Asante culture on such occasions with pomp and pageantry. He also assured the delegation that the leadership of Parliament would be present to celebrate with Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Ministry of Inner City and Zongo Development, in collaboration with National Board of Small Scale Industries (NBSSI), has organised a nine-day workshop for about 56 women in the North Ayawaso Constituency to upgrade their skills in their culinary businesses, especially in the Zongo cuisine. Dubbed Capacity Building Workshop for Entrepreneurs of Zongo Cuisine, the programme took the participants through topics like food safety, financial literacy, standardization, packaging, among many others. Closing the workshop on Saturday, the Minister of Inner City and Zongo Development, Dr. Mustapha Hamid, indicated that the Akufo-Addo administration would continue to advance the development process in the country irrespective of peoples political affiliations, creed or colour. He charged the participants to put all that they had learnt at the workshop to good use, which would give their culinary business a head start. Dr. Hamid assured them that those who seriously practised what they learnt would attract financial assistance from the government. We shall send our officials onto the field to monitor the activities of the participants and only those found to be practicing what they learnt at the workshop shall be given financial assistance, he stressed. The minister revealed that the same workshop had been held earlier in Tema, which attracted 55 participants, including a man, 77 in Ashaiman, 70 in Adentan, among others. Dr. Hamid announced that the programme would be extended to Fadama, Sukura and other Zongo communities in the Greater Accra and other parts of the country. He wished all the participants well and urged them to remember to keep the environment clean at all times. The Executive Director of NBSSI, Madam Kosi Yankah, expressed her delight with how the women had been exposed to new ideas during the workshop. She promised that her outfit would continue to assist them and entreated them to tell others about the workshop. Miss Edith Dzidzornu, the Metro Director for Cooperatives, took the participants through the formation of cooperatives that would give them a strong front. Source: Daily Guide 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 ISIMBA President Yoweri Museveni on Thursday commissioned a Chinese-built hydro-power dam which is expected to boost the countrys electricity generation capacity. The 183MW Isimba Dam now brings Ugandas national electricity generation to 1,167MW from the current 984MW. Mr. Museveni thanked China for its partnership that made the construction of the dam possible. I thank the Chinese government through their Exim Bank that supported this project. The Chinese government are our and Africas reliable partners. Ugandans can expect more electricity because we still have other dams to build in Ayago, Uhuru and Kiba. I thank you, the 74-year-old said after commissioning the dam. He said the Chinese government funded 85 percent of the project while Uganda covered the remaining 15 percent. Mr. Museveni also urged Ugandas not to sabotage national projects meant to better the lives of Ugandans. Even if it is your land, if a government wants to do something to benefit the rest of the Ugandans, do not frustrate the work. We will pay you your worth, do not try to take advantage of your government, he said. China has funded several mega projects across the continent and is seen as a key player in the continents infrastructural growth. Among some of the Chinese-funded projects in Africa include the Standard Gauge Railway in Kenya, the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia, the new Zimbabwean parliament, the Merowe hydropower dam in Sudan among others. Ugandas growing relationship with China and other non-traditional allies has led to predictions that its long-awaited rise out of extreme poverty, disease, and destitution to become an economic giant is near. Unlike the relationship with western countries such as Britain, Africas relationship with China is untainted by colonialism. Ugandas relationship with China dates back to 1962 when Uganda won independence from the British. Like most new African states eager to fortify their independence, Uganda looked for alternative development partnerships. China was one of the first countries to recognize Ugandas independence and the two countries built a relationship based on non-interference with each others internal affairs. The anti-gay law in Uganda and continued western criticism of President Yoweri Musevenis 32-year-old rule only served to bind the two countries closer. Museveni has repeatedly praised Chinas string free grants for non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. During his swearing-in ceremony in May 2016, Museveni once again praised China; . these people are our genuine friends. They have no arrogance. If a man has his own house and he goes to another mans house . What type of fool are you? Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Okello Oryem has been at the forefront of promoting Chinas interests in Uganda publicly stated thus: This is Chinas time. The USA and European countries had the opportunity to build Africa (but they did not succeed. Now the Chinese are building schools, dams, stadiums, hospitals, roads, etc. Gas, the song about democracy and human rights turned us into a developed country? If I want to give you a chicken or a goat do I first, ask you whether you beat your wife? In 2009 China overtook the US and Britain to become Africas leading trading partner. It is involved in virtually every sector of Ugandas economy including sand mining and fishing. When big donors such as Britain, the US, and the Netherlands slashed aid because of the anti-gay law, the government, in addition to levying new taxes, turned to China, making more investment deals with Beijing. Given the human rights records of both China and Africa, civil society organizations have cautioned that this relationship is monitored lest it becomes one no different from colonialism, with China siphoning off resources, indifferent to Africas poverty. Africans are now starting to question the nature of Chinese investment. In Kampala and upcountry, the Chinese presence is everywhere. From owning shops and hawking merchandise to running hospitals and managing multibillion-dollar projects on which the entire future of Uganda rests, Chinas presence is conspicuous. China National Oil Shore Corporation won the right to develop Ugandas Kingfisher Field for $2bn. The Chinese have further invested in Ugandas $2.5bn oil refinery and a $1.4bn rail construction project across East Africa. I thank the Chinese government through their Exim Bank that supported this project. The Chinese government are our and Africas reliable partners. Ugandans can expect more electricity because we still have other dams to build in Ayago, Uhuru and Kiba. I thank you. pic.twitter.com/dwiE309fUi Yoweri K Museveni (@KagutaMuseveni) March 21, 2019 The Chinese language has been introduced into the educational curriculum with over 20 schools selected including Makerere University to start teaching Chinese. The government also announced plans recently to import Chinese teachers to train Ugandan teachers for the same project coupled with political cadres frequently undergoing ideological training in China. China has so far through Exim Bank financed the construction of two dams and the also financed the recently launched Entebbe express highway. Major government buildings, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Presidents Office, were constructed by the Chinese. By 2011, China had invested $14bn in Africa and offered 75bn in aid. A big chunk of this money comes to Uganda and by 2013 bilateral trade between Uganda and China reached more than $500m. Related KAMPALA State House has rebutted earlier reports that President Paul Kagame is expected in Uganda on Sunday, March 25. Rwandan President Kagame was reportedly expected in Kampala on Sunday morning and that he and President Yoweri Museveni were to hold talks at State House, in Entebbe. However, President Musevenis Press Secretary Mr. Don Wanyama told PML Daily on Saturday night that a meeting with Mr. Kagame was not on the Ugandan President programme. Tensions between Uganda and Rwanda continue to dominate discussions in the region. Kigali accuses Kampala of harassing its nationals through arrests and torture and has been advising Rwandans to restrict their travel to Uganda. On the other hand, Kampala denies, claiming those detained are individuals suspected of spying. Related 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 Pakistan Ambassador to China Masood Khalid and Chinese Minister for Science and Technology Wang Zhigang attend the Pakistan Day Reception in Beijing on March 22. (Peoples Daily Online/Xian Jiangnan) Beijing, March 23 (Peoples Daily Online) - A grand reception was organized by the Embassy of Pakistan in Beijing Friday, to celebrate the 79th National Day of Pakistan on March 23, and 2019 as the year of China-Pakistan friendship sister cities and provinces. Pakistan Ambassador to China Masood Khalid and Chinese Minister for Science and Technology Wang Zhigang attended the program and delivered speeches. Members of the Pakistani community, diplomatic corps, media representatives and Chinese dignitaries were also present. Noting that 2019 is the 68th anniversary of the establishment of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations, Khalid said, Our all-weather strategic cooperative partnership nurtured over all these years is reaching new heights, which serves as a model of inter-state relations. He applauded the continuous momentum of high level interaction, smooth economic and trade cooperation, and stepped up cultural exchange and people-to-people contacts between the two countries, saying about 25,000 students from Pakistan are studying in China. The Ambassador emphasized that China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a model of win-win cooperation for our two countries as well as for the region, adding 22 projects are under implementation and Gwadar International Airport will be inaugurated next week. As China and Pakistan are celebrating 2019 as the year of sister-city relationships, Khalid said both sides would strengthen links in all fields so as to further elevate bilateral relations. Artists perform Chinese folk music at the Pakistan Day Reception in Beijing, on March 22. (Peoples Daily Online/Du Mingming) Wang said that Pakistan is Chinas only all-weather strategic cooperative partner. The friendship between the two countries is well-received by the two peoples and will generate new vigor and vitality, he noted. Wang applauded the prominent accomplishments of CPEC, noting that it not only brings benefits to our two peoples and countries but also provides new opportunities in terms of connectivity and economic integration. Together with Pakistan, China will contribute more to peace, stability, prosperity and development of the region and the world, said Wang. Pakistani music and dance, and Chinese folk music were performed at the reception. A cultural corner was set up to showcase handicrafts of Pakistan. Egypts interior ministry said on Thursday it would release more than 400 prisoners who received a presidential pardon earlier this year. The ministry will release 134 prisoners after an assessment of their cases was made by a special committee, it said in a statement on its official Facebook page. It will grant conditional release to 274 others, it added. Conditional release often includes requirements that prisoners report to a police station on a daily basis, or are subject to police supervision in other ways. In January, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi issued a decree pardoning a number of prisoners on the occasion of the eighth anniversary of the 2011 revolution and of Police Day. The presidential decree instructed the interior ministry to examine the cases of the prisoners to determine those who deserve pardons. President El-Sisi issues pardons several times a year, usually on major national holidays. Search Keywords: Short link: SPC's member al-Houthi congratulates the Yemeni mother who provided lessons in giving [22/March/2019] ANAA, March 22 (Saba) - A member of the Supreme Political Council Mohammad al-Houthi on Friday said that the Yemeni mother offered lessons in giving and proving her faith, which was affirmed through her patience, sacrifice proved through giving for the Homeland all sacrifice, including her children to protect the country with faith, pride and patriotism. Al-Houthi congratulated the Yemeni mother who gave birth to the heroic men who defend the homeland against the coalition aggression of the American-Saudi for her steadfastness, struggle and strength of patience and strong determination. He pointed out that the Yemeni mother has proved the immortality of all noble values and virtuous when she transcend her wounds and stand against the arrogant tyrants. Mohammed Ali al-Houthi stressed that the mother in Yemen is becoming more steadfast, proud, adding that she is offering every day a lesson that will remain forever through generations. The world celebrates on 21 March on the occasion of Mother Day. AA Saba President praises Jawf residents' constructive stances against aggression [23/March/2019] SANAA, March. 23 (Saba) President of the Supreme Political Council Mahdi al-Mashat on Saturday praised the great role and constructive stances playing by residents and sheikhs of Jawf province in Saudi aggression. p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:left;direction:ltr;unicode-bidi:embed"> During his meeting with Jawf governor comet today with Saleh Dorman, the president stressed the Supreme Political Council's readiness to support several projects and services needed by the province to alleviate the suffering of citizens. Al-Mashat stressed on the importance of encouraging and moving towards an agriculture in the province that helps in maintaining the food security and contributing self-sufficiency in Yemen. saba Frankfurt as the European Financial center will become increasingly important for Egyptian and further Arab banks and financial services institutions with business links to Germany and Europe respectively.More than 1.2 trillion dollars in assets will have to be relocated after Brexit. Frankfurt is poised to gain $800 billion. On Monday Frankfurt legal and regulatory experts are set to discuss Egypt's increasing role as a financial hub not just for continental Europe, but the larger MEN region as well, at a Cairo event. With the United Kingdoms coming exit from the European Union, Frankfurt Main Finance, representing Frankfurt Financial Centre with the support of the Central Bank of Egypt, will inform the financial industry in Cairo of the most recent developments at the Diplomatic Club in Cairo. As the financial centre of Europes leading economy Germany and the home of the European Central Bank, Frankfurt is taking the lead to benefit post Brexit. 48 financial institutions, mainly from the US, Europe and Asia decided to relocate whole or part of their European Banking business to Frankfurt, said Hubertus Vath, Managing Director of Frankfurt Main Finance e.V. We see now a second wave coming from the MENA region. Yusef Ahmed, founder and managing director of FIC Frankfurt International, said: As companies and banks finalize their Brexit contingency plans, Germany is committed to supporting Frankfurts key position in the new landscape of Europes financial industry. While from a legal point of view regulatory issues for banks moving into Frankfurt have been most discussed in the face of new political conditions, Brexit also hosts opportunities for Frankfurt to establish itself as not only an M&A centre but also a transaction-financing hub, said Dr. Nicolas Bremer, partner of international law firm Alexander & Partner. Dr. Rudiger Litten, partner of international law firm Fieldfisher, who has supported Kuwait Finance House establishing their fully licensed bank in Frankfurt, adds: In the past months awe see an increasing number of banks and financial institutions from the MENA-region seeking our advice in opening shop in Frankfurt. The event will take place at the historic Diplomatic Club Cairo on 25 March 2019, from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Search Keywords: Short link: Foreign Ministry condemns terrorist attack in Somalia [24/March/2019] SANAA, March. 23 (Saba) Yemen's Foreign Ministry affairs on Saturday strongly condemned the terrorist attack that killed civilians Somalia's capital Mogadishu. p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:left;direction:ltr;unicode-bidi:embed"> The ministry stressed that terrorism does not have a religion, is rejected in all its forms and represents one of the most serious threats against the international peace and security. It expressed the Yemeni people's condolences and the National Salvation Government to the and people of Somalia and its Government in the painful accident. Ali Ahsan saba BJP chief Amit Shah BJP chief Amit Shah on Saturday said that Congress President Rahul Gandhi should apologise for his chief advisor Sam Pitroda's statement on the February 14 Pulwama attack. "I demand from the Congress President that he must apologise to the families of the slain troopers," Shah told the media here. Shah's statement came in response to Pitroda's comments that incidents like the Pulwama suicide bombing that killed 40 CRPF troopers, "happen all the time" and that the UPA government also could have sent planes to Pakistan after the 2008 Mumbai terror attack but "that is not the right approach". Shah questioned whether the Congress considered heinous attacks as a normal phenomenon. "At a time when the country is growing rapidly towards the general election and the issue of national security is important for the voters, the statement of Sam Pitroda is very unfortunate," he said. He slammed the Congress saying that doubting the Indian Air Force was not right for any party's national president. He said that the Bharatiya Janata Party at the Centre has adopted a zero tolerance policy towards terrorism. A persons identity can be suppressed by a basic government document like a drivers license or birth certificate. Before this year, if you were a transgender or nonbinary Californian, you were forced to choose between two options that did not describe you: male or female. Since Jan. 1, state residents have had a third choice: X. X also represents, in Roman numerals, the number of years that plucky chorus Sacra/Profana has produced nontraditional concerts: Season X. Advertisement A program called Gender: X seems like a good fit for Sacra/Profana, but the Friday evening concert at St. Davids Episcopal Church delivered what could be better described as Gender: Female. Featuring only one transgender composer, Mari Valverde, the X in the title apparently applied more to chromosomes. The majority of composers performed were female, including Hildegard of Bingen, Libby Larsen and Caroline Shaw. Sacra/Profana premiered a new work by Sarah Rimkus, the winner of their call for scores. With 14 compositions arranged into sections with headings such as The Sacred Feminine, Agency & Autonomy and Bodies Desired/Bodies Imprisoned, Sacra/Profana celebrated feminism. The evening began, however, with an invocation to God the Lord. Swedish composer Karin Rehnqvists I Himmelen opened with piercing cries from soprano soloists stationed in the corners of the church. Rehnqvist is influenced by Swedish folk music, and I Himmelen incorporates very high, very loud notes sung by female herders to call livestock. From the altar, the rest of the chorus sang in a classical choral style, a striking contrast to the visceral, clarion calls of the soloists. This vision of a holy patriarch was followed by Larsens Womanly Song of God, a rhythmically charged a cappella stunner rejoicing in a singing, dancing Goddess. Most of the works heard were in a contemporary tonal choral style (think of Eric Whitacre). Larsen used this idiom with the greatest success, piling up lush clusters to underscore divine ecstasy. The chorus was principally conducted by guest conductor Emilie Amrein. Sacra/Profana has sounded tighter, but there was a lot unfamiliar music for the concert. Intonation was marvelous, though, and the singing uniformly high spirited. Juan Carlos Acosta, the groups artistic director and choral music instructor, at times stepped in to conduct, including the world premiere of The Devils Tower by Rimkus. The Devils Tower was chosen out of 81 submissions to Sacra/Profanas competition, open to women of all ages. With a text by the composer, it relates the Kiowa origin story of Devils Tower in Wyoming, a remnant of seven sisters escaping from a bear (which was recently their brother). What distinguished this composition was the way it set texts as fragments appearing in different sections of the chorus. At first, we heard one phrase at a time, but as the action of the story increased, so did the density of the fragments. Multiple fragments overlapped, the same words heard earlier or to come, presented all at once. In its ending, the sisters transformed into stars, the text setting became straightforward again, with gentle pentatonic melodies and harmonies. Ive been to a few concerts this year where an announcement is made that the event takes place on land stolen from Native Americans. Gender: X opened with such a verbal proclamation. Rimkus does not seem to be a descendant of Native Americans. Make of this what you will. Hertzog is a freelance writer. Dr. Kazuo Inamori, founder and chairman emeritus of Japans Kyocera Corp. a man whose noteworthy credits exceed the capacity of this humble column established the Kyoto Prize in 1984. His motivations were to serve the greater good of humankind and society, and redress the lack of formal recognition for dedicated but unsung researchers. The prestigious prize honors those who have made extraordinary contributions to science, civilization, and spirituality, motivating them and others like them to reach still greater heights. Consisting of academic honors, a gold medal, and a cash gift of 100 million yen (about $900,000) per category, the Kyoto Prize is Japans highest private award for global achievement and is now recognized as one of the worlds most important international prizes. Presented each November in Japan, there have now been 109 recipients, including 48 Americans, 27 Europeans, 23 Japanese, and one group the Nobel Foundation. And each March (since 2002), with the collaboration of San Diegos top four universities (UCSD, SDSU, USD, and PLNU), the nonprofit Koyoto Prize Symposium Organization holds a three-day event showcasing the achievements of the newest laureates. Masato Miyachi chaired the Symposium gala on Wednesday at the San Diego Intercontinental Hotel, and acted as emcee. Co-chairs were David Doyle, Peter Farrell, and Ray McKewon; Irwin Jacobs was honorary chair. More than 400 guests attended the formal-dress event. After a lavish reception with cocktails and hors doeuvres, dinner and the gala program took place in the ballroom. There, guests were welcomed, and Shinobu Inamori-Kanazawa was introduced and addressed the audience. Shes Dr. Inamoris daughter, and is now the Inamori Foundations executive vice president. After an artfully-prepared three-course dinner featuring citrus herb-crusted salmon, the laureates Dr. Karl Deisseroth (Advanced Technology), Dr. Masaki Kashiwara (Basic Sciences), and Joan Jonas (Arts and Philosophy) were individually introduced and presented onstage. Their outstanding lifetime achievements and notable discoveries were briefly outlined and each spoke, expressing appreciation for the honors they received. Alternating with the laureates appearances on stage were musical performances by exceptionally talented young artists from both Tijuana and southern California. Advertisement Ronak Roy, Anna Anderson, Kate Leonard, Shruti Verma, Delia Aguilar, Victor Castillo (Vincent Andrunas / Photo) Six promising high school seniors from the greater San Diego/Tijuana region received college scholarships for education in the three Kyoto Prize categories, raising the events scholarship funding for area students to more than $1 million. The Inamori Foundation philosophy aims for a future with the proper balance between science, technology, and spiritual maturity, with a goal of contributing to the peace and prosperity of humanity. This is the core meaning of the Kyoto Prize. The Naval command that oversees all of the services shore installations across six states welcomed its new commander to San Diego on Friday as Rear Adm. Bette Bolivar assumed the role of the Navy Mayor at Naval Air Station North Island. Bolivar replaces Rear Adm. Yancy Lindsey, whose next tour will take him to Naples, Italy, where hell lead Navy Region Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia. Before beginning the tour in San Diego, Bolivar was the commander of Navy Region Southeast in Jacksonville, Fla. Bolivar, a Filipino-American born in Hawaii, began her Naval career at the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1985. As a deep-sea diver, Bolivar served on five salvage ships, including a tour as commanding officer. Advertisement She also served on the counter IED task force in Afghanistan as an officer-in-charge. Her other tours include the Navy secretarys Navy White House Liaison staff and commander of Navy Region Northwest and Joint Region Marianas. Although she has been through San Diego on temporary duties, her tour at Navy Region Southwest will be her first time stationed here. Over the past week Ive gained an appreciation for how warm and supportive the San Diego community is to our military people, she said. Im excited. Expect me to come in and be a hard charger. Retired Rear Adm. Len Hering, who served as region commander from 2005-2009, said the relationship between the city and the Navy made this one of the best jobs in the Navy. The coordination between the Navy and community is so different here than it is in other places, he said. Theres no better job. Navy Region Southwest owns and operates all of the Navy bases in the San Diego area Coronado, Point Loma and San Diego as well as the major air stations in Lemoore and in Fallon, Nev. This includes basic services such as trash collection and security, as well as occasionally serving as the convening authority for major military courts martial. Bolivar is the second woman to lead the regions naval installations. The first, Rear Adm. Ronne Froman, held the position from 1997-2000. Contact Andrew Dyer via email or Twitter. A woman who fatally shot a male acquaintance at the victims Alpine-area home pleaded guilty Friday to a voluntary manslaughter charge. Angela Marie Meza, 49, is slated to be sentenced in El Cajon Superior Court next month for the May 2017 killing of 42-year-old Lorenzo Rodriguez, whose death was initially reported as a possible suicide. Meza was set to go to trial on a murder charge early next month in connection with Rodriguezs death, but pleaded guilty Friday morning to voluntary manslaughter, as well as allegations of using a firearm, having a prior strike and having a serious prior felony conviction. Prosecutors have not disclosed a motive for the killing, nor the nature of the suspects relationship to the victim. Advertisement Deputies were dispatched to investigate the fatality in a back-country area just west of Viejas Casino shortly after 6:30 p.m. on May 16, 2017, and found Rodriguez dead from a gunshot wound to his upper body, according to sheriffs officials. Meza was one of several people at the victims home on Viejas Grade Road when authorities arrived. Three months into the Department of Homeland Securitys new program that requires asylum-seeking migrants wait in Mexico until their U.S. immigration hearings, experts said Friday the policy may be encouraging illegal border crossings. This past week, migrants rushed the border at least four times at Playas de Tijuana, many of them claiming they were motivated by not wanting to wait in Mexico. A CBP official said Friday migrants who cross the border illegally are not yet being returned to Mexico while they seek asylum. Instead, they are being processed by CBP and then taken into custody, where they eventually get to wait in the United States, sometimes up to three or four years until their asylum hearings before an American immigration judge. Advertisement Why would I spend three years here in Tijuana when I could be in the United States? asked Jeydi Fuentes Lopez Montes, a 29-year-old mother from Honduras traveling with a 1-year-old baby. I know there is work here in Tijuana, but isnt the work better over there? Fuentes said she came to Tijuana originally planning to wait in line to ask for asylum, but she said when she learned the list to get an initial appointment with U.S. officials could take several months, she decided to try to find another way into the country. Legal experts also say a judge is not allowed to deny a persons asylum request based solely on whether they entered the country legally or illegally. Samuel Rodriguez Guzman from El Salvador arrived in Tijuana last week. He said he came to the beach on Thursday after hearing about more people successfully entering the country illegally, and seeing people get through the border infrastructure at Playas on the news. Im trying whatever way I can to immigrate to the United States, said Rodriguez. I had problems with the gangs in my country and my father did too. They want to kill us. When we get there to the United States, they have to respect our human rights to ask for asylum, right? Alan Bersin, the former commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection said there is no coordinated system between the Mexican government and the U.S. to accept large numbers of migrants returned to Tijuana. So far, fewer than 300 people have been returned to Mexico under the program, named the Migrant Protection Protocols. Its an incompetent program currently, said Bersin, adding that people who cross illegally should be returned to Mexico in the same numbers as those who wait for months in line for their turn to cross legally. This policy has a chance of succeeding as a deterrent, he said. But (Mexican President Andres Manuel) Lopez-Obrador is trying to avoid a fight with Trump so he says yes to everything but does nothing. This week and last week migrants have been climbing through holes in border fencing at Playas or climbing over the 15-foot high fence. Last Wednesday, on March 13, some people slipped through a hole in the border fencing near the beach. One of the men, who was seen in a Union-Tribune video running down the beach carrying a small child while a border agent chased after him, provided updates via WhatsApp to several people in his group and some witnesses. He said he was not apprehended and made it to Los Angeles. Last Thursday, a group of about 60 people who crossed included men, women and children who said they were mostly from Honduras. CBP spokesman Ralph DeSio said 52 people from that group were arrested. Border officials also arrested 23 people from Honduras and one from Guatemala on Tuesday after they scaled the fence near the beach. Then Thursday, activity at the border intensified as border agents and migrants clashed. Two migrants and several witnesses said agents shot pepper spray across the fence and into their eyes. During the incident, one man climbed the fence and dropped into the U.S. before he was detained by border agents. DeSio said CBP is currently averaging 167 arrests per day throughout the San Diego County area of responsibility, which stretches east to past Jacumba. Every arrest in San Diego Sector is investigated. Every breach in San Diego County is a concern whether its near Imperial Beach or in Jacumba, DeSio said in a written statement. Compromises in our fence are common due to our aging infrastructure. Efforts are made to repair breaches or compromises in a timely manner. On Friday, another hole big enough for people to climb through was visible at the base of the border fence at Playas, and migrants said they planned to return Saturday and try to climb through again. Really, were tired of fighting because we just want to cross and ask for asylum inside (the United States.) Were not rude. We are allowed to come here and ask for asylum, said Jose Reinera, a Honduran migrant who climbed up on top of the fence at Las Playas on Thursday. Reinera turned back and climbed back down on the Mexican side of the border when he realized his wife and kids would not be able to make the climb, he said. The 2020 presidential campaign season kicked off in San Diego County Friday evening with a rally downtown featuring Sen. Bernie Sanders. Championing a familiar message of economic and social justice, he made his first local visit since launching his second presidential bid last month. The visit is also the first in a series of California rallies the Vermont senator plans over the next few days, including appearances in Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area. We are not only going to defeat Donald Trump, the most dangerous president in the modern history of our country, said Sanders, but with your help... we are going to transform this country and create a government and an economy that works for all of us and not the 1 percent. Sanders, a self-identified Democratic Socialist, focused his speech on economic justice issues including increasing the minimum wage, addressing student debt, providing universal health care, and closing tax loopholes for billionaires and massive corporations. Advertisement He told the crowd of more than 6,400 that the country needs to address institutional racism and fight tribalism and hate-based attacks, which he said are ring under President Donald Trump. We are going to tell the president, We are no longer going to allow you to divide our nation up, said Sanders. And under our administration we will lead the world in human rights and bringing people together. Sanders also addressed Fridays news that special counsel Robert Mueller had filed his report related to the Russia investigation. I also know it is absolutely imperative the Trump administration make that report available as soon as possible, said Sanders. Nobody, including the president of the United States, is above the law. The American people have a right to know. Sanders last visited San Diego in October to protest alongside striking hotel workers and to rally voters with Rep. Mike Levin, D-San Juan Capistrano. Much like his rallies in San Diego during the 2016 campaign, which frequently drew thousands of guests, Fridays event drew a large, energized and diverse crowd with many arriving hours early. Among them was Stephen Franco, 23, of Los Angeles, who attended the rally with his mom. They were in town visiting his girlfriend, but they also decided to see Sanders. Franco, who volunteered for Sanders campaign in 2016, said the senators ideas and willingness to stand up to corporate money are what drew him. Theyre ideas I see as being the epitome of what health care and education and rights for minorities should look like, Franco said. Kris Balgaard, 54, and Sherri Hensley, 43, of San Diego, who attended four Sanders rallies during his last presidential run, also pointed to Sanders stances on health care accessibility and corporate money. They said the senators stance on economic justice issues, such as a $15 minimum wage, was also important, and they said theyve never seen such crowd energy from other politicians. Referring to healthcare and the minimum wage, Balgaard said: America is a stressed out country, and I think those are two of the biggest problems. Hensely said she has been encouraged that more Democrats are adopting positions similar to Sanders, though shes suspects some are not as sincere as Sanders is. The new Democrats are saying more things like him, but I dont think they mean it, she said. The Sanders rally drew a handful of protesters, among them San Diego County Republican Party Chairman Tony Krvaric. Were here to support our president, and obviously Bernie Sanders is here running against our president, said Krvaric, who criticized Sanders as embracing socialism and not understanding its negative impacts. The Sanders visit is likely to be the first of many from Democratic presidential hopefuls, because California is expected to play a more important role in the selection of the Democratic nominee. The most populous state with a proportionally large amount of delegates, California has traditionally held its primary in June, near the end of the primary cycle. But in 2020 the state will have its primary in early March, making California a likely draw for presidential candidates. Democratic hopefuls will need to distinguish themselves in a crowded field that already includes more than a dozen candidates, including Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, former U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke and California Sen. Kamala Harris. Hong Kong: Edward Yau to visit Australia Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Edward Yau will travel to Sydney on March 24. Mr Yau will attend the signing ceremony of the Hong Kong-Australia Free Trade Agreement & Investment Agreement in the morning of March 26. On the same day, he will deliver a speech on the two agreements at a luncheon seminar hosted by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, Sydney. He will also have a meeting with Destination NSW to learn about its tourism development strategy, and call on the Chinese Consul General in Sydney. Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong in the evening of March 26. During his absence, Under Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Bernard Chan will be Acting Secretary. This story has been published on: 2019-03-23. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi met on Saturday with Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi in Cairo, according to a statement by El-Sisis spokesman Bassam Rady. The pair discussed means to combat terrorism as well as other matters of mutual concerns to deepen relations between the two countries. They are expected to talk to the media following their bilateral talks. Search Keywords: Short link: An 80-year-old driver sustained a serious leg injury Friday morning when he crashed his SUV into a bus parked on the side of the roadway in the Bay Ho neighborhood, police said. The man was in a Hyundai Santa Fe headed north on Moreno Boulevard, near the Costco Wholesale between Avati and Jutland drives, when he crashed about 7:15 a.m., San Diego police Sgt. Robert Hawkins said. For unknown reasons, his SUV veered to the right and struck an unoccupied party bus parked along the curb. Medics took the elderly driver to a hospital for treatment of a compound fracture of his ankle, Hawkins said in a statement. Advertisement The San Diego Police Departments traffic division was investigating the crash. Twitter: @Alex_Riggins (619) 293-1710 alex.riggins@sduniontribune.com Sheriffs deputies arrested 25 adults in a Saturday warrant sweep across South County - in Chula Vista, National City, Imperial Beach, Bonita and Lincoln Acres. The 25 people had a total of 31 misdemeanor warrants and one felony warrant among them. One man, age 23, resisted arrest and was jailed on that additional felony charge, sheriffs Sgt. David Pockington said in a news release. The sweep was conducted by the court services bureaus field division in the incorporated cities as well as the unincorporated communities of Bonita and Lincoln Acres. Deputies fanned out to arrest anyone with a warrant, regardless of the charge or bail amount, Pockington said. Anyone with an outstanding warrant can surrender at any sheriffs court facility, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Advertisement pauline.repard@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @pdrepard A man suspected of sexually assaulting a woman inside her Talmadge neighborhood home was able to flee from officers and elude capture early Friday morning, police said. A neighbor called 911 about 5:35 a.m. after the victim ran to the neighbors home and said shed just been assaulted, San Diego police Lt. Carole Beason said in a statement. It happened inside a residence on 50th Street, just north of El Cajon Boulevard, police said. Investigators later learned that after assaulting the victim, the suspect demanded money and car keys from the woman, and left in her vehicle. After the victim could no longer hear the suspect in her home, she ran to a neighbors home, Beason said in a statement. Advertisement Officers responding to the area spotted a man matching the suspects description running from the area of the victims home, Beason said. The suspect ran toward an alley between 50th Street and Winona Avenue. The officers lost sight of the suspect and were unable to apprehend him, Beason said. ***UPDATE SUSPECT SKETCH*** We need your help identifying and locating a sexual assault suspect. Anyone with information please call @sdcrimestoppers 888-580-8477. Up to $1000 reward being offered. Please see the attached release for details. pic.twitter.com/Q0uvoTAxxd San Diego Police Department (@SanDiegoPD) March 23, 2019 According to a press release from San Diego County Crime Stoppers, the womans stolen car was found abandoned about a mile from the crime scene. Police did not immediately provide an explanation of how the car was moved a mile away and how the suspect was spotted on foot near the crime scene when officers arrived. Police described the suspect as a 6-foot black man weighing between 230 and 250 pounds with a muscular build and a deep voice. Hes believed to be between 25 and 30 years old with a clean-shaven face and short, wavy black hair. He was last seen wearing a black jacket with white along the shoulders and blue jeans. Anyone with information about the assault or the suspects identity was urged to call the San Diego Police Departments sex crimes unit at (619) 531-2210, or San Diego County Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477. Authorities are offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case. Twitter: @Alex_Riggins (619) 293-1710 alex.riggins@sduniontribune.com UPDATES: 7:40 p.m.: This article was updated with a sketch and a description of the suspect. This article was originally published at 4:35 p.m. Sen. Kamala Harris plans to call for a federal effort to boost teachers salaries Saturday, offering up the first new policy proposal of her 2020 presidential campaign on an issue that is roiling school districts across the country and is dear to a powerful Democratic constituency. The plan, which Harris is slated to unveil while addressing a morning rally at Texas Southern University in Houston, would promise an unprecedented federal investment in teacher pay because of widespread concern that teaching, a female-dominated profession, is badly underpaid, according to a campaign aide who was not authorized to discuss the plan on the record. A study by the Economic Policy Institute, a liberal think tank, found that public school teachers in 2017 made 11% less than similar professionals with college degrees, even after taking into account benefits, which are often higher for teachers than many private-sector workers. Harris will commit to closing the teacher pay gap within her first term as president, the campaign aide said. Details of the initiative including the price tag and how the program would be structured will be released in the coming week, the aide said. Advertisement The idea stands to be a major policy departure because setting teacher pay has traditionally been the responsibility of state and local governments, which provide the lions share of money for education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The federal government currently provides less than 10% of total spending for elementary and secondary schools, with most of the money channeled to states and school districts for specific national priorities such as helping cover the cost of educating disabled students. Harris has proposed several policy initiatives, including a large-scale tax-cut plan that would provide up to $6,000 a year to working families. But until now, most of her policy ideas have been drawn from her legislative portfolio in the Senate. By focusing her first new initiative of the campaign on teachers, she is tapping into a politically potent constituency a profession that is heavily unionized, Democratic leaning, and a part of nearly every voters life. The call for greater federal spending on education could also prove popular a new poll released this week by the nonpartisan Pew Research Center found that 54% of American adults, and 66% of Democrats, said that increased spending on education should be a top priority for the U.S. government. The only policy area ranking higher among voters was expanding healthcare, Pew found. The drive to raise teachers salaries has swept across the country in recent years, spotlighted by teacher strikes not just in big cities such as Los Angeles and Denver, but also in more conservative places such as Oklahoma and West Virginia. In Los Angeles in January, a six-day strike ended in a contract that gave teachers a 6% raise 3% retroactive to the 2017-18 school year and another 3% retroactive to July 2018. The issue is front and center in the early voting state of South Carolina, where the state Legislature is currently debating teacher pay. The topic is frequently raised on the campaign trail. At a recent event in Ottumwa, Iowa, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey went into some detail about new investments he wanted to make in public schools and teachers. He called for helping teachers by retiring their college debt, boosting funding special education funding and overhauling the tax system so teachers pay less. Harris campaign appearance in Texas on Friday and Saturday also sends a broader political message for the 2020 primary contest: She is not going to cede the delegate-rich state to its favorite son, Beto ORourke, the former Texas congressman who announced his presidential campaign earlier this month. ORourke is not the only candidate who will face competition in his own backyard: While Harris travels Texas this weekend, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders is campaigning in California. The latest from Washington Once again, in the name of inclusiveness, some well-meaning folks are urging that since women can now serve in combat roles, they should also be required to register for the draft. These people probably never have been in hand-to-hand combat with fixed bayonets in a life or death struggle or in a tank or fighting vehicle in battle. There is little privacy in a small warship or warplane. In a tank or a trench, there is none at all and during battle all bodily functions must be performed in plain sight. This can be traumatic enough for young people of the same gender. For mixed crews it can be traumatizing. As I have written previously, we shouldnt allow inclusiveness to get in the way of common sense. To begin with, there is no immediate need to reinstitute the draft and little likelihood that we will again engage in massive, prolonged expeditionary campaigns that would require drafting large numbers of untrained civilians and integrating them into an all-volunteer force. Nor are the services structured, staffed or organized to process and train large numbers of nonvolunteers who probably would rather not be there. Related: Why women should be eligible for the military draft Military culture and technology have changed greatly since the advent of the all-volunteer force. It is smaller, far more complex and professional. The training is also more complex. Many draftees would not qualify mentally and/or physically today without lowering standards which would impact readiness. Advertisement The services benefit from the synergy that is produced by people who are there by choice, not because they were drafted. In an emergency requiring more people we will rely, not on the draft, but on trained reservists, just as we did during the Gulf wars. By the time we reorganized to deal with large numbers of draftees and trained and integrated them, a future war would most likely be over. Why, then, should we require women to register for the draft when there is no foreseeable need? If such a need arises in the future, we can revisit this issue. I have long been an advocate for women serving in any position in the military for which they are qualified. In 1978, while serving as commanding officer of a guided missile cruiser deployed to the Middle East, I wrote an essay entitled Women in Warships: A Right to Serve. I argued that any woman should be allowed to serve in any position in my ship for which she was qualified. It won me the Naval Institutes Author of the Year Award, but also a lot of criticism from seniors in the all-male seagoing navy of that time. Soon after, however, it became reality and I had the privilege of helping to manage the integration of women in ships of the Pacific Fleet. I also commanded one of the first ships to have women officers on board. Women have since served with distinction in shipboard and aviation roles. But there are differences between seaborne or aerial combat, where one seldom comes face-to-face with an enemy, and hand-to-hand combat in the trenches. Women in the military today have as many opportunities as men to distinguish themselves in battle without having to slug it out alongside men on a battlefield, facing all the horrors that this entails. I dont want my daughters or granddaughter, or anyone elses for that matter, to have to deal with this, except perhaps for the few who volunteer and meet the physical requirements without waivers, especially when there is no foreseeable national need or career enhancement to be gained and the only apparent reason is some notion of fairness to the men. But if women are required to register and in the unlikely event that a draft is someday needed, draftees, given their lack of specialized training, will likely be assigned wherever they can be used immediately, namely to ground combat units. This is a bad idea. Granted, this implies a double standard, but common sense demands it. There are differences between the sexes, if you havent noticed. I see no reason to force women into a combat role for which she may be emotionally very unsuited. Its true that some men arent suited, either, but thats not a valid reason to inflict such trauma on women also unless they volunteer and qualify physically. Thousands of combat veterans, mostly males, suffer from post-traumatic distress syndrome which can affect them for the rest of their lives. Lets not make a decision that could add daughters, sisters, wives and mothers to this list of victims when there is no compelling reason for it. We shouldnt allow inclusiveness to get in the way of common sense. Kelly, a freelance writer based in Coronado, is a retired navy captain who commanded three San Diego-based ships and a naval laboratory. He teaches ship handling and seamanship at Naval Base San Diego. The current Selective Service System is the last vestige of an emotionally driven reluctance to finally accept changing social norms regarding women and military service. Under the current system, men ages 18 to 25 are required to register, women are not. Society no longer tolerates debates about integrating African-Americans into the military; the same should apply to women and military service. The drawn-out debate about women and registering for the draft has little practical value, especially considering the legacy of women in combat. Women like Deborah Sampson who served in combat disguised as a man during the Revolutionary War, or Army Lt. Ashley White, killed in action in 2011 while serving alongside Special Operations Forces in Afghanistan. The resurgence of arguments against women in combat, as stated recently by former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, are not only baseless in fact but are also completely out of touch with the realities of the military today. Related: Why our daughters should not be drafted Draft registration must change to reflect the reality that some women, just as some men, are capable of serving, and just as willing to make the ultimate sacrifice in doing so. A gender-neutral draft registration will help finish this endless debate about women and service. Excluding women from draft registration damages the principle of civic duty, perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes, is impractical and violates the Constitution. Advertisement Providing for the common defense is a burden that should be shared by all. As Gen. James Mattis remarked, military service is a touchstone for patriots of whatever stripe. Excluding women from registration sends a resounding and widespread message to society that gender somehow matters for civic duty in a time of war or national crisis. Forcing gender exclusion reinforces unhealthy and negative stereotypes about the roles of men and women, inevitably forcing young boys and girls to perceive one another differently in terms of civic duty. Arbitrarily dividing civic obligations only ingrains negative stereotypes, which typically form at a young age, and can carry into adulthood. According to the Global Early Adolescent Study, one common negative gender stereotype is that girls are vulnerable and in need of protection while boys are seen as strong and independent. Requiring only boys to register turns this stereotype into a self-fulfilling prophecy. Removing gender distinction from registration can dispel harmful stereotypes and send the message that all citizens, regardless of gender, may be expected to serve in times of need. Moreover, excluding women implies that society cannot rely on women to serve. This is particularly troubling because it undermines and ignores the heroic actions of female service members who have fought and died for this country. In practicality, gender distinction contradicts the drafts purpose. As President Bill Clinton described in 1994, its purpose is to provide a hedge against unforeseen threats and a relatively low-cost insurance policy against our underestimating the maximum level of threat we expect our armed forces to face. Though our all-volunteer military diminishes the drafts need, the Selective Service nevertheless remains a contingency plan. Contingency plans are meant to be sound and reliable; excluding half of the American population from being considered for the registration defies practicality. Widening the candidate pool for the draft registration only builds a stronger contingency plan. From a legal perspective, excluding women from draft registration violates the equal protection component of the Constitution. In 1981 the Supreme Court explored this concept in Rostker v. Goldberg. At that time, the military barred women from thousands of positions, which in the courts view meant men and women were not similarly situated, thus not requiring equal treatment under draft requirements. Anachronistically, we find ourselves in 2019 with the fundamental premise of that 1981 case no longer applicable. In 2013 then-Secretary of Defense Panetta ended gender discrimination in the military when he opened all occupations to qualified women, subsequently invalidating the grounds relied upon in the Goldberg case. The drafts gender exclusion no longer has the same legal basis as it once did. This year, federal Judge Gray Miller reinforced this, stating that while historical restrictions on women in the military may have justified past discrimination, men and women are now similarly situated for purposes of a draft or registration for a draft. Gender discrimination in matters of national security remains inconsistent with the concept of civic duty, is harmful to society, and is both impractical and unlawful. The military rid itself of gender discriminatory policies in 2013; its time for Selective Service requirements to meet the same end. Loya served in the Marine Corps for seven years on active duty, including deployment to Afghanistan in 2010. She is currently a major in the Marine Corps Reserves and is set to graduate from Georgetown Law School this year. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- 3D surgical microscope system is an electrically or mechanically worked optical magnifying instrument intended for use in surgical settings for performing microsurgeries. The mix of focal points give stereoscopic vision, amplification going from 4x 40x, and enlightened picture of the surgical zone. It has replaced the traditional workflow of slides and microscope. By digitizing slides, surgeons are able to examine high resolution digital images with the help of precision tools. Using these system, images can be stored in a computer, send to another person and thus improve the workflow. This technology helps in more precise diagnosis by facilitating accurate and timely diagnosis, patient-centric information, eliminate time consuming analog tasks and enhancing the overall lab performance. These systems helped the patients to receive better care and transforming healthcare organizations. Strain-free procedures, easy sterilization or disinfection to avoid cross infection prove to be helpful in increasing the diagnostic efficacy. With the growing cases of infections and diseases, it has become important to visualize each and every molecular aspect. 3D surgical microscope systems have finds its use in all the phases of drug discovery, education, clinical and research and thus has made the overall surgical workflow more efficient and effective. These 3D surgical microscope systems are instinctive solution that benefits various surgeons, healthcare professionals and entire healthcare enterprise. Shift from glass to the digital system opens the way for next generation tools such as advanced image analysis & algorithms. It also helps in new data integration like genomic and molecular testing thus leading to precise and personalized treatment plans. 3D Surgical Microscope Systems Market: Drivers & Restraints Rising disease incidences, infection rates, increasing demand of improved diagnostic techniques, increasing spending on healthcare, government funding, rising R&D efforts are some of the factors driving the overall market of 3D surgical microscope systems. The creative present-day surgical magnifying instruments can be set on a tabletop, worn by the specialist on the head or mounted on a stand, which empowers the specialist and patient to pick up a superior perspective of the objective site. The 3D surgical microscope systems discovers its applications in dentistry, gynecology, ophthalmology urology, neurosurgery, spine surgery, oncology, reconstructive surgeries, and so on. Likewise, according to WHO insights, growth was the main driver of 8.8 million deaths in 2015. The previously mentioned number is anticipated to ascend by around 70% by 2035, which, thus, is relied upon to increase the interest for 3D surgical microscope systems in the worldwide market. Innovative progressions as far as improved perceivability, compactness, and steadiness are relied upon to be the key variables driving overall growth of the market. Request Sample Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-5499 A portion of the mother factors driving the growth of the 3D surgical microscope systems incorporate the wide utilization of fluorescence picture guided surgery (FIGS), ascend in number of ophthalmic and dental surgeries, progressions in customized microscopy solutions and healthcare facilities. Popularity of 3D surgical microscope systems in hospitals, diagnostic centers and research organizations are surging the market. High capital investment and maintenance cost curbs the growth. Less number of highly skilled operators, stringent regulatory compliance, sampling error also limits its expansion. 3D Surgical Microscope Systems Market: Segmentation Segmentation by Product Type Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT) Microscopes Ophthalmic Microscopes Colposcopy Others Segmentation by Application Neuro and Spine Surgery Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oncology Ophthalmology ENT Surgery Gynecology and Urology Dentistry Segmentation by End Users Hospitals Diagnostic Laboratories Research Organizations Research Institutes Others 3D Surgical Microscope Systems Market: Overview A large number of key players in the market and established brands increasing the competition. New technologies in this sector are cutting edge for the market. Strategic mergers and partnerships between companies and academic institutions are also booming the growth. Significant technology gains led to the adoption of innovative imaging systems technology in the global market. Rising demand by various end users because of increasing adoption of this technology increases its market. Diagnosis applications is accounted to be the largest segment in terms of revenue generating. 3D Surgical Microscope Systems Market: Region-wise Outlook With high technological advancements, and research activities in the molecular diagnostics, North America dominates the world market followed by Western European nations. Quality diagnostics, favourable reimbursement scenario, government funding, established players in the market, availability of trained technicians in these regions creates the established market for 3D surgical microscope systems. . Japan is expected to be the next lucrative market for digital surgical manufacturers. With respect to growth rate, Asia Pacific is leading because of growing economies, increasing advanced surgical procedures & research activities, increasing patient pool and improving healthcare opportunities. Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-5499 3D Surgical Microscope Systems Market: Key Players Some of the key players for 3D surgical microscope systems market include Leica Microsystems, Olympus Corporation, TrueVision 3D Surgical, Inc., Alcon and others. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Growing Exports of Non-Traditional Jamaican Crops Creating Sustained Opportunities The ackee market is likely to grow at a rapid pace with the emerging trend of purchasing local products using traditional trade methods. The buttery and savory flavor of ackees continues to appeal to a wide target audience, making ackee one of the popular products in mainstream supermarkets and gourmet stores internationally. Manufacturers are targeting large consumer bases in foreign markets by offering ackees in new and exciting ways. Leading ackee manufacturers are providing canned ackees that contain less sugar yet taste fresh, in order to meet the dynamic consumer demands. The ackee market is mainly influenced by increasing exports of canned ackee from Jamaica to developed regional markets such as North America and Europe. The total export sales of canned ackees from Jamaica reached over US$ 13 million in 2014 and around US$ 20 million in 2016. With the increasing demand for non-traditional Jamaican crops among consumers across the globe, the Jamaica Promotions Corporation expects the ackee exports to surpass US$ 21 million in 2018 and US$ 29 million by the end of 2020. In addition, the Jamaica Exporters' Association (JEA) predicts that the ackee market will witness excellent growth in the upcoming years with increasing demand for Jamaican crops. Request For Sample @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=828 The ackee market is mainly influenced by increasing exports of canned ackee from Jamaica to developed regional markets such as North America and Europe. The total export sales of canned ackees from Jamaica reached over US$ 13 million in 2014 and around US$ 20 million in 2016. With the increasing demand for non-traditional Jamaican crops among consumers across the globe, the Jamaica Promotions Corporation expects the ackee exports to surpass US$ 21 million in 2018 and US$ 29 million by the end of 2020. In addition, the Jamaica Exporters' Association (JEA) predicts that the ackee market will witness excellent growth in the upcoming years with increasing demand for Jamaican crops. The Caribbean, Canada, and the U.S. remain among the important target markets for manufacturers in the ackee market. Restaurants and hotel sector remains the primary target consumer group for leading manufacturers and distributors in the ackee market. As more than 50% demand for the ethnic food comes from the foodservice industry, established players in the ackee market are making deliberate steps to improve their position in the foodservice industry. Ackees in various forms such as canned and processed continue to gain popularity among the consumers across the globe, which ultimately triggers the growth of the ackee market. FDA Regulations on Fresh, Canned, and Frozen Ackees Impacts the Development of the Ackee Market As the presence of hypoglycin A content of pods and seeds of unripe ackees can lead to cause Jamaican vomiting sickness, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration imposes stringent rules on the imports of ackees in North America. Shipments of ackees in different forms such as raw, canned, frozen, and dried, without a physical examination, are banned in the U.S. The stringent regulations and rule imposed on ackees sold in the U.S. in various forms may impact the growth of the ackee market, as it may compel market players to modify their manufacturing processes and strategies. The section 402(a) (4) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act; 21 U.S.C. 342(a) (4)) states that if canned, frozen, and other forms of ackee products are considered to be adulterated in the U.S. if they contain hypoglycin A at levels higher than 100ppm. Request For Brochure @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=B&rep_id=828 In order to comply with the regulations developed by FDA, manufacturers in the ackee market are adopting innovative strategies to make safer and cost-effective products. Jamaica is the only country where ackee is identified as an edible crop. As a result, Jamaican manufacturers in the ackee market are employing advanced manufacturing processes to consolidate a stronger position in the market with high-quality ackee products. The ackee market is expected to envisage excellent growth as ackee is not part of just Jamaican cuisine, but is witnessing demand across the world as an exotic and delicious fruit. This analytical research study imparts an all-inclusive assessment on the market, while propounding historical intelligence, actionable insights, and industry-validated & statistically-upheld market forecast. Verified and suitable set of assumptions and methodology has been leveraged for developing this comprehensive study. Information and analysis on key market segments incorporated in the report has been delivered in weighted chapters. A thorough analysis has been offered by the report on Report Analysis @ https://www.factmr.com/report/828/ackee-market Compilation of authentic and first-hand intelligence, insights offered in the report are based on quantitative and qualitative assessment by leading industry experts, and inputs from opinion leaders & industry participants around the value chain. Growth determinants, macroeconomic indicators, and parent market trends have been scrutinized and delivered, coupled with the market attractiveness for each market segment encompassed. Qualitative impact of growth influencers on the market segments across regions has also been mapped by the report. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Increase in demand for reliable sensors, low cost along with high performance feature is anticipated to fuel the growth of global air pressure sensor market.Air pressure sensor is a measuring converter of the pressure of a gas or liquid into pneumatic, electric, and other kinds of output signal. It is also used for measuring pressure drops and rarefaction. The demand for air pressure sensors market is rapidly increasing as they are widely used across various applications such as petrochemicals, building, shipbuilding, aircraft, and medical sector, among many others. In building, medical and automotive sector, MEMS-based pressure sensors (technology) are widely used. Additionally, on account of industry shift from analog to digital, air pressure sensors have become smarter in terms of sensing and efficiency performance. Advancements in ICT technology as well as Nanotechnology applications are emerging as new trends for the global air pressure sensor market. Air Pressure Sensor Market: Drivers & Restraints Improved sensitivity in pressure sensors has strongly contributed to the demand of the global air pressure sensor market. Fast growth in Asia-Pacific region, increasing governmental regulation and vehicle production are the key factors driving the growth in the global air pressure sensor market. Advancement in technology is opening new doors to the growth of pressure sensors for medical and automotive applications. In coming years, it is anticipated that penetration of MEMS technology is going to lead the overall global air pressure sensor market. However, higher cost of the investment for production, could act as a major restraint in the global air pressure sensor market. Request Sample Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-600 Air Pressure Sensor Market: Segmentation On the basis of technology, the global air pressure sensor market is segmented as: Electromagnetic Capacitive Piezoresistive Optical Others (Resonant solid-state) On the basis of applications the global air pressure sensor market is segmented as: Automotive Pressure Sensors Medical Sector Industrial Sector Consumer Electronics Others (Refineries, Chemical plant, Pulp & paper, etc) Air Pressure Sensor Market: Region-wise Outlook The global air pressure sensor market is expected to register a favourable growth for the forecast period, 2015?2025. On the basis of region, Asia Pacific, Japan and Latin America are expected to be the growth engines of air pressure sensor market in the near future. Asia-Pacific is anticipated to dominate the global air pressure sensor market. The key countries mentioned in the Asia-Pacific region are India, South Korea, and China as an outcome of growth in application sectors. Also, the region is expected to generate higher revenue as compared to North America (is practically maturing). Japan also contributes to the global air pressure sensor market remarkably. In Latin America, Brazil is expected to be the largest opportunity in terms of revenue of the air pressure sensor market. The remaining regions are expected to grow at a steady rate over the forecast period. Request to View TOC @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-600 Air Pressure Sensor Market: Key Players Some of the key market participants in global air pressure sensor market are ABB Ltd., Analog Devices, Inc., Analog Devices, Inc., Analog Devices, Inc., Emerson Electric, General Electric, Freescale Semiconductor, Honeywell International, Robert Bosch GmbH and others. The joint training by Egyptian-British military forces (Ahmus I) continues in the Mohammed Najib military base, a statement by the Egyptian military spokesman Tamer El-Refai read. The training included many theoretical lectures for the transfer and exchange of various experiences. The training also includes practical training on the discovery, decommissioning and destruction of explosive devices. Other exercises aimed to achieve full control and management of operations through training on land use and individual movements in the field. Commander of British Forces in Cyprus James Illingworth inspected the drills, hailing the greater combat readiness of the UK and Egyptian troops and the harmony between them. The joint Egyptian-British military training exercise Ahmus I started in Egypt on 7 March. British forces and military equipment have been arriving at Egyptian air bases and naval ports to participate in the joint training, which includes counterterrorism training and exercises focused on urban combat. A coordination conference was between leaders of the participating forces to unify concepts and bolster the mission of the training. Search Keywords: Short link: New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- The latest report Ancient Grain Market discusses everything a business owner needs to know about the Ancient Grain market for the forecast period, 2019 to 2026. The document offers an insight into what the target customer's needs and wants. Industry experts have extracted data from various sources on size, share, growth rate, production volume, production capacity, import and export status, distribution channels and more and have analysed it thoroughly. By properly assessing the competitors and their offerings the study aims at empowering business owners to step ahead. Request for Sample Copy of Ancient Grain Market Report @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/sample-enquiry-form/12616 Scope of the Report: The research methodologies used for evaluating the Ancient Grain market are inventive and also provides enough evidence on the demand and supply status, production capability, import and export, supply chain management and investment feasibility. The investigative approach applied for the extensive analysis of the sale, gross margin and profit generated by the industry are presented through resources including tables, charts, and graphic images. Importantly, these resources can be easily integrated or used for preparing business or corporate presentations. Major Players in Ancient Grain market are: The J.M. Smucker Co., Ardent Mills, Bunge Inc., ADM, Healthy Food Ingredients, LLC., Factoria Quinoa Zona Franca S.A.S., Urbane Grain Inc., Nature's Path Foods, FutureCeuticals Inc., Sunnyland Mills, Manini's, LLC Most important types of Ancient Grain products covered in this report are: - Gluten Free Ancient Grain - Gluten Containing Ancient Grain Most widely used downstream fields of Ancient Grain market covered in this report are: - Bakery and Confectionery Products - Snacks - Direct Eating - Others Buy Ancient Grain Market Research Report @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/checkout-form/12616 The market intelligence study for the Ancient Grain market further provides an inside-out overview of necessary aspects associated with the product classification, important definitions, major orders and other industry-centric parameters. An underlying part of the study also maps the important factors associated with the recent events such as mergers and acquisition, collaboration and new product launches. In addition, the research lays down a robust groundwork for obtaining a vast amount of information that potential customers can use to increase their profits and reduce costs. The inclusion of data on market segmentation by type, application, and geography offers clarity presents an analytical picture of, what manufacturers are aiming for. Estimating the potential size of the Ancient Grain industry: Industry experts conducting the study further estimate the potential of the Ancient Grain industry. Such information is important for firms looking to launch an innovative service or product on the market. Industry experts have measured the total volume of the given market. Researchers have calculated the industry in terms of sales by the competitors and end-user customers. Data on the entire size of the Ancient Grain market for a particular product or a service for the forecast period, 2019 to 2026 covered in the report makes it valuable. This information reveals the upper limit of the Ancient Grain industry for a specific product or service. The research provides answers to the following key questions: - What is the estimated growth rate of the Ancient Grain market for the forecast period 2019 - 2026? What will be the market share and size of the industry during the estimated period? - What are prime factors expected to drive the Ancient Grain industry for the estimated period? - What are the major market leaders and what has been their winning strategy for success so far? - What are the significant trends shaping the growth prospects of the Ancient Grain market? - What are the key challenges expected to restrict the progress of the industry for the forecast period, 2019 - 2026? - What the opportunities product owners can bank on to generate high profits? Read More @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/industry-overview/ancient-grain-market There are 14 Chapters to deeply display the global Ancient Grain market. - 1 Ancient Grain Market Overview - 2 Global Ancient Grain Market Competition by Manufacturers - 3 Global Ancient Grain Capacity, Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2013-2019) - 4 Global Ancient Grain Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Region (2013-2019) - 5 Global Ancient Grain Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type - 6 Global Ancient Grain Market Analysis by Application - Continue About MarketExpertz Planning to invest in market intelligence products or offerings on the web? Then marketexpertz has just the thing for you - reports from over 500 prominent publishers and updates on our collection daily to empower companies and individuals catch-up with the vital insights on industries operating across different geography, trends, share, size and growth rate. There's more to what we offer to our customers. With marketexpertz you have the choice to tap into the specialized services without any additional charges. Contact Us: John Watson Head of Business Development 40 Wall St. 28th floor New York City NY 10005 United States Direct Line: +1-800-819-3052 E-mail: sales@marketexpertz.com New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- The latest industry intelligence research on the Animal Antimicrobials market offers a repository of valuable data on the size, share, and growth rate of the Animal Antimicrobials market for the forecast period, 2019 - 2026. Importantly, examination of various facets of the industry including but not limited to production volume, product sales, demand and supply assessment and forecast for the period, 2019 - 2026 aim at offering business owners a competitive edge over their rivals. The study further conducts a qualitative evaluation of various driving forces expected to shape the future of the industry during the estimated period. Request for sample Animal Antimicrobials report in PDF format available now @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/sample-enquiry-form/32313 Major Players in Animal Antimicrobials market are: Zoetis Inc, Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, Eli Lilly and Company, Merck & Co Inc., Bayer AG, Sanofi, Ceva Sante Animale, Virbac, Vetoquinol S.A., Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC Market segment by Region/Country including: - North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) - Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Russia and Spain etc.) - Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia and Southeast Asia etc.) - South America Brazil, Argentina, Colombia and Chile etc.) - Middle East & Africa (South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia etc.) Make an enquire before buying this report@ https://www.marketexpertz.com/make-enquiry-form/32313 Grow with the Animal Antimicrobials Market trend The Animal Antimicrobials helps product owners learn how certain trends will shape the growth of the Animal Antimicrobials industry over a long term. The study closely looks at the historical price pattern of various products and services and empowers entrepreneurs to form the right opinion about the future trends. Accordingly, business owners will be able to decide their course of action and make a wise decision. Market by Type - Premixes - Oral Powders - Oral Solutions - Injections - Others Market by Application - Food-producing Animals - Companion Animals Purchase full Animal Antimicrobials report through this link and get 15% free customization on the report@ https://www.marketexpertz.com/checkout-form/32313 The study objectives of this report are: - To analyze and study the global Animal Antimicrobials capacity, production, value, consumption, status (2014-2019) and forecast (2019-2026); - Focuses on the key Animal Antimicrobials manufacturers, to study the capacity, production, value, market share and development plans in future. - Focuses on the global key manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the market competition landscape, SWOT analysis. - To define, describe and forecast the market by type, application and region. - To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks. - To identify significant trends and factors driving or inhibiting the market growth. - To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high growth segments. - To strategically analyze each submarket with respect to individual growth trend and their contribution to the market - To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market - To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies. Key Points from TOC: Part 1 Market Overview 1.1 Market Definition 1.2 Market Development 1.3 By Type 1.4 By Application 1.5 By Region Part 2 Global Market Status and Future Forecast 2.1 Global Market by Region 2.2 Global Market by Company 2.3 Global Market by Type 2.4 Global Market by Application 2.5 Global Market by Forecast Continue Browse the report description@ https://www.marketexpertz.com/industry-overview/animal-antimicrobials-sales-market About MarketExpertz Planning to invest in market intelligence products or offerings on the web? Then marketexpertz has just the thing for you - reports from over 500 prominent publishers and updates on our collection daily to empower companies and individuals catch-up with the vital insights on industries operating across different geography, trends, share, size and growth rate. There's more to what we offer to our customers. With marketexpertz you have the choice to tap into the specialized services without any additional charges. Contact Us: John Watson Head of Business Development Market Expertz | Web: https://www.marketexpertz.com Direct Line: +1-800-819-3052 E-mail: sales@marketexpertz.com News: https://www.marketexpertz.com/market-news New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/22/2019 -- The latest market intelligence study on Anti-Bumping Granules market applies the best of both primary and secondary research techniques to bring to light the growth rate of the Anti-Bumping Granules market for the forecast period, 2018 - 2026. The comprehensive study covers hard to find facts about the market landscape as well as its growth prospects in the years to come. Most importantly, the research report includes vital statistics about the major vendors occupying a strong foothold in this industry. Besides this, in order to calculate the market share, the study takes a closer look at the selling price of the product across different regions. Request Sample Copy of Report @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/sample-enquiry-form/32298 Scope of the Report: The researcher assessing Anti-Bumping Granules market dive deep to unearth intangible facts related to the key restraints, opportunities, and threats expected to shape the progress of the industry during the forecast period, 2018 - 2026. Significant evaluation of other factors such as demand and supply status, import and export, distribution channel, consumption volume, and production capability play a vital role in offering business owners, stakeholders and field marketing personnel a competitive edge over others operating in the same space. All important data are presented in self-explanatory charts, tables and graphic images that can be incorporated into any business presentation. In market segmentation by manufacturers, the report covers the following companies- - Troemner LLC - Merck - Breckland Scientific Ask for Discount @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/discount-enquiry-form/32298 In market segmentation by geographical regions, the report has analysed the following regions- - North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) - Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Russia and Spain etc.) - Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia and Southeast Asia etc.) - South America Brazil, Argentina, Colombia and Chile etc.) - Middle East & Africa (South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia etc.) Most important types of Anti-Bumping Granules products covered in this report are: - Four Mesh Granules - Ten Mesh Granules - Twelve Mesh Granules Most widely used downstream fields of Anti-Bumping Granules market covered in this report are: - Researche - Industrial The study explores in details about the recent trend fast gaining momentum in Anti-Bumping Granules industry due to factors including but not limited to growing customer preference and a sudden rise in their spending capacity. Aspects attributed to the gross margin, profit, supply chain management and product value and their considerable impact on the development of the Anti-Bumping Granules market during the forecast period, 2018 - 2026 is carefully scrutinized during the research. Buy Full Report@ https://www.marketexpertz.com/checkout-form/32298 The research provides answers to the following key questions: - What is the estimated size of the Anti-Bumping Granules market for the forecast period, 2018 - 2026? What will be the growth rate of the industry during the estimated period? - What are the prominent driving forces likely to impact the progress of the industry across different regions? - Who are the major market players occupying a strong foothold in the Anti-Bumping Granules market? What are the winning strategies adopted by them to stay ahead in the competition? - What are the potential opportunities for the Anti-Bumping Granules market for the forecast period, 2018 - 2026? - What are the key trends expected to shape the development of the industry over the coming years? - What are the key restraints and challenges likely to hinder the growth of the Anti-Bumping Granules market worldwide? Key points from TOC: Part 13 Key Companies 13.1 Troemner LLC 13.2 Merck 13.3 Breckland Scientific Continue Browse report summary @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/industry-overview/anti-bumping-granules-market About MarketExpertz Planning to invest in market intelligence products or offerings on the web? Then marketexpertz has just the thing for you - reports from over 500 prominent publishers and updates on our collection daily to empower companies and individuals catch-up with the vital insights on industries operating across different geography, trends, share, size and growth rate. There's more to what we offer to our customers. With marketexpertz you have the choice to tap into the specialized services without any additional charges. Contact Us: John Watson Head of Business Development Market Expertz | Web: www.marketexpertz.com Direct Line: +1-800-819-3052 E-mail: sales@marketexpertz.com News: www.marketexpertz.com/market-news Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Global Antistaling agent Market Overview Baked products are digestible and nutritious food and in some selected area it is adopted as staple food and is consider as appropriate food. During storage, like many foods made from starch, baked food can be stale easily even in moist and refrigerated environment. The antistaling agents are the substances which are used to retard the staling and to maintain the moisture in the baked goods. The antistaling agent are generally monoglycerides, diglycerides, wheat gluten, glycerolipids, enzymes, and wheat gluten. Owing to transforming food industry and increasing baked food industry the global market for antistaling agent can be foreseen to grow with the significant CAGR over the projection period. Global Antistaling agent Market Dynamics Increasing trend of selling freshly baked food products to fuel the demand of antistaling agent The ever growing number of fresh pizza outlets or pizza delivery chains that provide freshly baked pizzas is making the fresh pizzas available to consumers in larger quantities than frozen pizza products. The number of consumers choosing freshly baked or homemade pizzas and other bakery products is increasing significantly which may fuel the demand if antistaling agent in near future. Request For Sample @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2975 Increasing Demand for Rice Flour & Its Potential Usage in Food Industry can be foreseen to contribute to the demand of antistaling agent Rice flour is one of the most commonly utilized grains since earlier times. The modification of rice flour also benefits in the manufacturing of rice bread along with acceptability and improved quality, compared to production of bread from unmodified rice flour. Breads with higher volume, better taste and softer crumb are manufactured from modified rice flour which will result in increasing demand of antistaling agent in the global market over the projection period. Urbanizations and modernization in emerging economies countries have bolstered the food industry. Improvements in the economic conditions of various countries have led to increased disposable income and higher standard of living, which indirectly has contributing to new opportunity for antistaling agents in baked food industry. With increasing processed & backed industry, the market for antistaling agent is projected to gather better opportunities in global antistaling agent market. Regulatory bodies in different countries have imposed regulations on using food additives for production of food products. Antistaling agent manufacturers have to conform to food safety regulations from associations like FDA and other for ensuring safety of the antistaling agents before distributing products in the global antistaling agent market. Request For Brochure @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=B&rep_id=2975 Antistaling agent market Regional outlook The global Antistaling agent market can be divided into seven regions which includes North America, East Asia (Japan, China, South Korea,), Europe, MEA, , South Asia (India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Rest), Oceania and Latin America. The East Asia and South Asia, collectively is estimated to contribute significantly in global antistaling agent market owing to ever growing baked food industry. The Europe and North America are also estimated to hold significant share in global Antistaling agent market. Latin America and Middle East & Africa are foreseen to witness moderate growth over the forecast period in global antistaling agent market. Overall, the global market for antistaling agent is projected to grow with significant CAGR over the projection period. Global Antistaling agent Market Segmentation The global Antistaling agent market can be divided on the basis of type, by application and region. On the basis of type the global Antistaling agent further incorporates monoglycerides, diglycerides, wheat gluten, glycerolipids, enzymes, and wheat gluten and others. On the basis of application segment the global Antistaling agent market can further segmented as Cakes, pastries, bread & loaves and others. The Bread & Loaves is projected to witness significant market share in global antistaling agents market during the projection period. On the basis of form, antistaling agents can be further segmented as power and paste. On the basis of product form the global antistaling agent market can be segmented as chemical and Enzyme. Global Antistaling agent Regional Outlook and Competition Tracking The global market for antistaling agents is highly competitive and fragmented in nature and incorporates many global and domestic players. Some of the prominent manufacturers of antistaling agent includes Penta Manufacturing Company, Huzhou Nanxun Shengtao Botanical Co., Ltd, Shaanxi TOP Pharm Chemical Co., Ltd. Shaanxi Tianrun Phytochemical Co., Ltd, Zhejiang Yiwan Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Lasenor and others. This analytical research study imparts an all-inclusive assessment on the market, while propounding historical intelligence, actionable insights, and industry-validated & statistically-upheld market forecast. Verified and suitable set of assumptions and methodology has been leveraged for developing this comprehensive study. Information and analysis on key market segments incorporated in the report has been delivered in weighted chapters. A thorough analysis has been offered by the report on Report Analysis @ https://www.factmr.com/report/2975/antistaling-agent-market Compilation of authentic and first-hand intelligence, insights offered in the report are based on quantitative and qualitative assessment by leading industry experts, and inputs from opinion leaders & industry participants around the value chain. Growth determinants, macroeconomic indicators, and parent market trends have been scrutinized and delivered, coupled with the market attractiveness for each market segment encompassed. Qualitative impact of growth influencers on the market segments across regions has also been mapped by the report. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Development of the smart braking systems in automotive brake system market resulted in decreasing number of accidents. Advancement of automotive brake system includes safety systems, which enables speed control as well as prevents vehicle from skidding. This in turn minimizes the risk of potential accidents, thereby driving the growth of automotive brake system market. Rapid increase in the production and sales of vehicles coupled with stringent regulations regarding stopping distances is anticipated to magnanimously contribute further towards growth of automotive brake system market. Growing demand for installation of passive and active safety in vehicles is expected to trend in automotive brake system market. Growing concern over road traffic crashes and increasing number of deaths have influenced the key players in automotive brake system market to integrate robust safety features in developing vehicles. Stringent safety regulations by regulatory bodies and governments will continue to drive the growth of automotive brake system market. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), agency of U.S. DOT (Department of Transportation) has planned to mandate adoption of AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking), nearly from 2022. Request Sample Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-503 Latest technologies in automotive brake system market are creating challenges for automakers owing to their inability to incorporate the high-cost technologies in low-priced vehicles. This in turn is expected to adversely affect the revenue growth of automotive brake system market in the forthcoming years. The developing industry of automotive has largely emphasised on the development of the vehicles that are fast and safe. Brakes have become an important and crucial part of any vehicle so as to ensure the safety which becomes very essential when the demand of speed is increasing steadily. Being commonly used in different automobiles an automotive brake system comprises a brake device having different components (such as brake pads, brake shoes, brake drum, rotor, piston, calliper, master cylinder, and brake booster) which are used for decelerating a vehicle. The growth in automotiveindustry is anticipated to fuel the growth of global automotive brake system market along with the increasing concerns over safety and resulting government pressures that have upturned the OEM's towards the launching of higher technology content, thereby driving the demand for global automotive brake systems across the globe. Automotive Brake System Market: Drivers & Restraints Ever-increasing demand and succeeding vehicle production is considered as one of the biggest driver for the increasing demand of the automotive brakes and global automotive brake system market penetration. Also the increasing governmental mandates for improving the vehicle safety has strongly contributed to the demand of the global automotive brake system market. The major restraint in the global automotive brake system market implies to be the higher cost of the newer technology of Electronic Brake Systems (EBS) when compared to the commonly used Hydraulic Brakes. Automotive Brake System Market: Segmentation On the basis of product type, the global automotive brake system market is segmented as Disc Brakes and Drum Brakes. On the basis of applications the global automotive brake system market is segmented as Two Wheeler Motor Vehicles, Passenger Car Vehicles, and Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV). On the basis of technology the global automotive brake system market is segmented as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that comes under the electronic braking systems (EBS). Automotive Brake System Market: Region-wise Outlook The global automotive brake system market is expected to register a favourable growth for the forecast period, 2015?2025. Asia-Pacific is projected to endure its control on the global automotive brake system market. The key countries in the mentioned region are projected to be India, South Korea, and China as an outcome of the increasing demand for commercial vehicles and passenger cars. Japan also contributes to the global automotive brake system market remarkably. China is expected to be the largest opportunity in terms of revenue of the industry. Europe is expected to be the second largest market in global automotive brake system market followed by North America. Request to View TOC @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-503 Automotive Brake System: Key Players Some of the key market participants in global automotive brake system market are TRW Automotive Holdings Corp., Aisin-Seiki Co. Ltd., Continental AG, Akebono Brake Industry Co. Ltd., Brembo S.P.A., Halla Mando Corp., and others. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Plastic products are supposed to degrade our environment at a rapid rate. Manufacturers are looking forward to sustainable alternatives to plastic. Straws are widely used among people for drinking beverage, juice or other drinks. Consumers all over the world use plastic straws. Nowadays, manufacturers are inclined towards the introduction of sustainable products which reduces the usage of plastic. One such product is bamboo straw, thus preventing plastics from entering and polluting the environment. These bamboo straws are anti-bacterial and reusable. Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on earth, which makes it a sustainable material. Bamboo contains a binding agent, named as 'bamboo kun,' it is found within its fibers. The purpose of bamboo kun is to fight against any parasite or fungus that tries to grow on it, certainly making bamboo a hygienic material to use. Bamboo straws are perfect to use as drinking straws for hot drinks and cold drinks, such as smoothies or hot coffees. Bamboo straws are an environmental-friendly alternative to plastic products. These are expected to fuels the growth of the global bamboo straws market during the forecast period. Request For Report Sample @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-6936 Demand for alternative solutions to Plastic: It is found that about 1 billion plastic straws are used every day worldwide. The government in various nations impose restrictions on plastic straws. Bars and restaurants around the world are finding new ways to replace plastic straws that have become a necessary part of dining, whether a fast food outlet or a restaurant. Bamboo straws provide a sustainable alternative to the plastic straws. Recently, some regions in the United States such as Seattle and California have prohibited restaurants from handing out plastic straws unless requested by a customer. Countries such as Costa Rica, South Africa, and Thailand have also been shifting to straws made of sustainable products such as bamboo, paper or wood instead of plastic. These factors are expected to drive the growth of global bamboo straws market during the next decade. The growing inclination of people towards the use of environment-friendly products is expected to drive the growth of bamboo straws. Bamboo straws are washable and reusable, and these straws can last for years as bamboo straws come with a cleaning brush to wash to wash them out. Bamboo Straws: An alternative to Plastic Straws Why use Bamboo? It is one of the world's fastest growing plants that means it is a sustainable solution for straw manufacturing. Some species of bamboo grow as fast as one meter a day. Also, bamboo has physical and mechanical properties which makes it a perfectly sustainable alternative to plastic. Bamboo is durable and robust, also it has no sharp edges which makes bamboo straws a safe for children to use. The best advantage to use bamboo straw is that it is eco-friendly, natural & organic and reusable. It can be used as a drinking straw for both hot and cold drinks alike, whether it is chilled smoothies or hot coffee. Facts: Need to ban plastic straws The U.S. itself consume 500 million plastic straws per year. It is enough to wrap around Earth's circumference 2.5x a day. Seemingly small and harmless, are an example of massive waste generated for the most non-essential convenience as we come to expect plastic straws in almost all drinks. These straws clog landfills and harm marine life. It can take about 100 years for one straw to decompose, and are difficult products to recycle. These are some liable reason to impose a ban on plastic straws and go for sustainable solutions. Bamboo straws are the most efficient and best alternative to plastic straws in the market due to its multiple advantages over plastic straws. Research Methodology: The sources which have been used to validate the estimated market size include annual reports of key market players, industry journals & magazines, research papers, and other relevant data available in the public domain. Primary sources referred include focused discussions with C level executives, distributors, independent consultants, and key industry experts, among others. bamboo straws market Segmentation: The bamboo straws market has been segmented on the basis of length, application and end use. On the basis of length, the global bamboo straws market has been segmented as: Up to 9 cm 15 cm 20 cm On the basis of application, the global bamboo straws market has been segmented as: Beverages Juices and Drinks Others On the basis of end use industry, the global bamboo straws market has been segmented as: Restaurants Hotels Bars & Cafes Others *The pricing analysis can be done on the basis of length of bamboo straws. Companies operating in global bamboo straws market: Straw Free Buluh Straws Anji Wuyuan Bamboo Products Factory Bamboo Straws Worldwide Zone Bamboo Straws Simply Straws Kimberley-Clarke Corporation Bambu Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-6936 The road ahead: Due to growing awareness among people products and restrictions imposed by the government against the use of plastic straws, the demand for bamboo straws is expected to rise. Although, the availability of other sustainable straw options such as paper straws, stainless steel straws and glass straws in the market is expected to hamper the growth of global bamboo straws market during the forecast period. But due to some exceptional properties of bamboo, the bamboo straws market is anticipated to witness high growth prospects in the near future. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Rising number of research activities related to genomics to study nature of diseases, along with the advancements in biobanking are expected to impact growth of the global biobanking equipment market. This FactMR report analyzes the expansion of global biobanking equipment market till date, and provides key insights on the growth of the market during the forecast period, 2017-2022. The scope of FactMR's report is to analyze the global biobanking equipment market for the forecast period 2017-2022 and provide readers an unbiased and accurate analysis. Medical device manufacturers, research institutes, and raw material suppliers in the global biobanking equipment market can benefit from the analysis offered in this report. Get a Free Sample PDF Illustration Here https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=250 Bio banking equipment are equipment used in the biorepository, which stores biological samples for research purposes. Using biobanking equipment, researchers conduct tests, or perform analysis on specimens stored in a biobank. Along with equipment, consumables, software and services play an important role in helping researchers to study various types of diseases. A major factor driving growth of the biobanking equipment market is growing demand for personalized medicine, which can be attributed to high unmet medical requirements for developing effective therapies. Personalized medicine implies treatments based on preferences, needs, and characteristics of patients. Individuals across the globe have been witnessed to bank their tissues and stem cells, in case any future treatment is required. Development of personalized medicine critically needs individual samples with annotated pathological and clinical data. Several research organizations are focusing on exploring ways for developments in personalized treatments with the help of biological samples. For example, in the previous year, Illumina signed 4 deals, related to biobanking, with the Vanderbilt University, Partners HealthCare, the Montreal Heart Institute, and the University of Colorado, with an aim of developing personalized medicines, and improving the overall healthcare system. This will positively impact growth of the global biobanking equipment market. Other factors influencing the market growth include growing need for discovery and development of cost-effective drugs, rise in private as well as government funding for supporting research on regenerative medicine, surging genomics research activities to study diseases, and advancements in biobanking. A prevalent trend being witnessed in the global biobanking equipment market is conservation of newborns' cord blood stem cells. The market for biobanking is highly fragmented, owing to presence of various small and large vendors. Owing to similarity between products available in the market, vendors are focusing on differentiating their services based on value-added services, and automation of existing technology, for thriving in this highly competitive market. According to FactMR's recent research, the global market for biobanking equipment is expected to exhibit a high-single digit CAGR throughout the forecast period 2017 to 2022. Sales of biobanking equipment worldwide are estimated to surpass US$ 2,000 Mn in revenues by 2022-end. Read Complete Factors about this Report from Here - https://www.factmr.com/report/250/biobanking-equipment-market North America will remain the most attractive market for biobanking equipment, expanding at 7.6% CAGR through 2022. In addition, the markets in Japan and Latin America are estimated to witness a parallel expansion, exhibiting similar CAGRs through 2022. Blood is expected to be the most lucrative sample in the market, with sales expanding at the highest CAGR and accounting for the largest revenues through 2022. In contrast, sales of tissues are anticipated to exhibit the lowest CAGR through 2022, based on sample type. On the basis of product, equipment will remain dominant in the market, with sales poised to exceed US$ 1,300 Mn in revenues by 2022-end. Between consumables, and software & services, the latter is projected to register a comparatively faster expansion through 2022. Competition Tracking The report has profiled key players operating in the global biobanking equipment market, which include Becton, Dickinson and Company, Brooks Automation, Inc., Chart Industries, Inc., Greiner Holding AG, Hamilton Company, Merck KGaA, Panasonic Healthcare Holdings, Promega Corporation, Tecan Trading AG, Qiagen N.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., and VWR Corporation. Table of Contents Global Biobanking Equipment Market - Executive Summary Global Biobanking Equipment Market Overview 2.1. Introduction 2.1.1. Global Biobanking Equipment Market Taxonomy 2.1.2. Global Biobanking Equipment Market Definition 2.2. Global Biobanking Equipment Market Size (US$ Mn) and Forecast, 2012-2022 2.2.1. Global Biobanking Equipment Market Y-o-Y Growth 2.3. Global Biobanking Equipment Market Dynamics 2.3.1. Drivers Continued Buy Full Report with Facts - https://www.factmr.com/checkout/250/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/ Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Biochemicals control market has witnessed significant rise over the decades owing to technological advancement in healthcare industries. In a growing healthcare market where profits and growth prospects run together, many companies are vying to plunge into this untapped market. Though the healthcare industry has seen immense technological innovation over the years, the market is getting complex owing to emergence of critical healthcare illness. One such healthcare illness that has strongly affected the mankind is prostate cancer. Cases has been seen where biochemical recurrence has led to biochemical relapse, thus leading to re-emergence of prostate cancer among survivors. According to a recent study conducted by University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center in Madison, USA, 35% of prostate cancer survivors are susceptible to biochemical relapse within 10 years of receiving treatment. Also, as per the World Cancer Research Fund International, prostate cancer is one of the major cause of concern globally, recording more than 1.1 million cases in 2012. Of these, 68% of the cases are recorded in developed regions. North America is the prominent region where mortality rate from prostate cancer is scaling the peak. Search for effective yet reliable technological innovation for biochemicals control in prostate cancer is offering new business horizons to healthcare industries. Biochemicals Control Market: Drivers & Restraints The biochemicals control market is expected to grow exponentially during the forecast period, primarily due to the changing lifestyle, physical inactivity and prognosis of patients with biochemical relapse of prostate cancer treatment are some of the key drivers of this market. High prevalence of prostate cancer among middle class population is another significant driver for biochemicals control market. Though the market seems optimistic in coming years, preference for alternative treatment, high costs of treatment, along with stringent regulatory procedures in some of the key nations can led to some negative impact on this industry. However, this million dollar industry is expected to witness upward trend during the forecast period 20152025, primarily due to rise in effective prostate cancer treatment. Request Sample Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-804 Biochemicals Control Market: Segmentation Biochemicals market is broadly classified on the basis of therapy and regional prevalence. Various therapies are used depending upon the feasibility of prostatic cancer conditions. Among all types of prostatic cancer, hormone therapy is the widely accepted treatment method. It blocks the testosterone signaling pathway at the androgen receptor. This therapy is followed by adjuvant chemo-hormonal therapy, and combined chemo-hormonal therapy methods. Though these treatment options are viable and has proved effective, companies are emphasizing on R&D to offer innovative and robust healthcare solutions for biochemicals control market. Biochemicals Control Market: Region-wise Outlook Demands for biochemical control market is expected to generate from developed economies including North America and Europe. Increasing prevalence of prostate related cancer, government focus towards providing reliable healthcare solution, increasing healthcare expenditure and key innovations driven by some of the key industry leaders in the region is expected to boost the overall sales of prostate cancer therapies in North America and Europe. More than 40% of the demand for biochemical control is expected to generate from North America and Europe. Asia Pacific and Latin America are next in trail. Increasing healthcare expenditure is one of the key driving factor in Asia Pacific. Around 15% of all prostate cancers diagnosed globally are from Asia Pacific. Increase in irregular lifestyle in most parts of Asia Pacific is expected to entrap more people in coming years. Healthcare solutions to battle prostate cancer is widely needed globally. Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-804 Biochemicals Control Market: Key Players Some of the key market players in prostate cancer treatment and biochemical control are GlaxoSmithKline, Accord Healthcare Inc., Biologics Inc., BioZyme Inc, Juno Therapeutics, etc. Harrisburg, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Global Biological Safety Cabinets Market Insights, Forecast To 2025 This report studies the Global Biological Safety Cabinets market size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. This research report categorizes the global Biological Safety Cabinets market by companies, region, type and end-use industry. The biological safety cabinets market was valued at USD 137.5 Million in 2016 and is projected to reach USD 205.9 Million by 2022 at a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period. Avail a sample 114 pages copy before purchase: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/03191152264/global-biological-safety-cabinets-market-research-report-2019/inquiry?source=releasewire&Mode=21 Biological Safety Cabinets Market by Top Key Players: Global Biological Safety Cabinets Market Analysis Report includes Top manufacturers are: Erlab, Thermo fisher Scientific, Labconco, AirClean Systems , Germfree, Cruma, Azbil Telstar S.L., Polypipe, The Baker Company, ACMAS Technologies Pvt.. Biological Safety Cabinets Market Segment by Type: Class I Class II Class III Biological Safety Cabinets Market Segment by Application: Industrial Academic Research Biological Safety Cabinets Market Segment by Region: North America, United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia-Pacific, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Europe, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe, Central & South America Biological safety cabinet market is extremely fragmented due to the presence of many players across the world, in turn creating a highly competitive environment. Biological safety cabinet market is expected to remain competitive to gain major market share by the players. There are few changes which have taken place in biological safety cabinets such as reduction in noise level, improved designs and Key players of biological safety market include Erlab, Thermo fisher Scientific, Labconco, AirClean Systems etc Browse Full Report at: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/03191152264/global-biological-safety-cabinets-market-research-report-2019?source=releasewire&Mode=21 We Offer 15% free customization on the report covering additional 3 countries or 3 companies in the report Major Highlights of Biological Safety Cabinets Market report: Biological Safety Cabinets Market Overview Market Competition by Manufacturers Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders Market Effect Factors Analysis Global Biological Safety Cabinets Market Forecast (2019-2025) The development of efficient and reliable alternatives to biological safety cabinets such as the compounding isolators pose a major restraint to the growth of the global biological safety cabinets market. In addition, the high cost of the biological safety cabinets limits the uptake of these systems and is likely to restrain the market to a certain extent. Buy Now This Report at: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/report/purchase/03191152264?mode=su?source=releasewire&Mode=21 What this Research Study Offers: -Global Biological Safety Cabinets Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments -Global Biological Safety Cabinets Market share analysis of the top industry players -Strategic recommendations for the new entrants in Global Biological Safety Cabinets market. -Global Biological Safety Cabinets Market forecasts for a minimum of 6 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional Global Biological Safety Cabinets markets -Global Biological Safety Cabinets Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations) -Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations -Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends -Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements This report studies the global Biological Safety Cabinets size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. This research report categorizes the global Biological Safety Cabinets market by companies, region, type and end-use industry. The report lists out several main factors, starting from the basics to advanced Market intelligence which plays an essential part in managing. Focuses on the key global Biological Safety Cabinets players, to define, describe and analyze the value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis, and development plans in the next few years. Target Audience: -Government and private research institutes -Manufacturers and suppliers of biological safety cabinets -Pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies -Academic and research institutes -Venture capitalists -Medical research centers -Research and consulting firms 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. We also offer clients the option to customize every report to suit their specific requirements and offers attractive discounts on all upcoming reports and future purchases. 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 Selbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/21/2019 -- Cable Management System Market research now available at Market Study Report encompasses an exhaustive Study of this business space with regards to pivotal industry drivers, market share analysis, and the latest trends characterizing the Cable Management System industry landscape. This report also covers details of market size, growth spectrum, and the competitive scenario of Cable Management System market in the forecast timeline. The research report on the Cable Management System market provides an in-depth analysis of this business sphere in question, with respect to a plethora of vital factors such as the market size with regards to volume and valuation. The report elucidates, in extensive detail, a concise brief about the industry segmentation as well as a highly dependable evaluation of the present status of this market. The competitive landscape of this industry arena and its regional spectrum have been enumerated in excruciating detail in the study. Request a sample Report of Cable Management System Market at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1735227?utm_source=sbwire.com&utm_medium=PC A precise coverage of the Cable Management System market report: A detailed synopsis of the regional as well as competitive spectrums of the Cable Management System market: - The study enumerates the regional scope of the Cable Management System market, categorized into United States, China, Europe, Japan, Southeast Asia & India. - Details pertaining to the market share amassed by every region as well as growth prospects of the territory have been mentioned in the study. - The growth rate that each region will register over the forecast duration, in conjunction with the production market share as well as the revenue details have been outlined in the study. - The Cable Management System market report includes an in-depth analysis of the competitive landscape of this business vertical, constituting companies like o LegrandSA o HellermannTyton o Eaton o Schneider-Electric o NiedaxGroup o Thomas & Betts o OglaendSystemGroup o UNIVOLT o Hua Wei Industrial o Sirijaya o ChatsworthProduct - Pivotal information with respect to the market share accumulated by each company, registered capacity, and the production have been encompassed in the study. - The research report delivers a gist about the company some generic information, and other details related to its position in the industry such as the present valuation and product description. - A precise SWOT analysis has also been included in the study. Ask for Discount on Cable Management System Market Report at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1735227?utm_source=sbwire.com&utm_medium=PC Pivotal highlights included in the research study: - A brief analysis of the product type spectrum of the Cable Management System market, extensively segregated into o Cable Trays and Ladders o Cable Conduits o Cable Trunking o Cable Connectors and Glands o Cable Raceway o Cable Chain o Other Types (Reels o Cable Tires o etc - Substantial details pertaining to the revenue amassed by each product. - The price trends of each product in tandem with the sales and production volume. - An in-depth analysis of the application spectrum of the Cable Management System market, precisely segmented into o IT and Telecom o Manufacturing o Energy & Utility o Oil and Gas o Mining o Others - Intensive information about the consumption of the products for each application. - The valuation accumulated by every application in question and the consumption market share information. - The growth rate which each application will record over the forecast duration. - The details regarding the raw material production rate and the market concentration rate. - The sales and price trends prevalent in the Cable Management System market and the estimated growth trends for this industry space. - A detailed evaluation of the marketing strategy including the marketing channels adopted by prominent manufacturers to commercialize their products. - The numerous distributors who are a part of the supply chain as well as the important suppliers. - The possible restraints of this industry as well as the growth opportunities prevalent across the Cable Management System market. - A deep evaluation of the downstream customers of the Cable Management System market. For More Details On this Report: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-cable-management-system-market-size-status-and-forecast-2019-2025 Some of the Major Highlights of TOC covers: Executive Summary - Global Cable Management System Production Growth Rate Comparison by Types (2014-2025) - Global Cable Management System Consumption Comparison by Applications (2014-2025) - Global Cable Management System Revenue (2014-2025) - Global Cable Management System Production (2014-2025) - North America Cable Management System Status and Prospect (2014-2025) - Europe Cable Management System Status and Prospect (2014-2025) - China Cable Management System Status and Prospect (2014-2025) - Japan Cable Management System Status and Prospect (2014-2025) - Southeast Asia Cable Management System Status and Prospect (2014-2025) - India Cable Management System Status and Prospect (2014-2025) Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis - Raw Material and Suppliers - Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Cable Management System - Manufacturing Process Analysis of Cable Management System - Industry Chain Structure of Cable Management System Development and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Cable Management System - Capacity and Commercial Production Date - Global Cable Management System Manufacturing Plants Distribution - Major Manufacturers Technology Source and Market Position of Cable Management System - Recent Development and Expansion Plans Key Figures of Major Manufacturers - Cable Management System Production and Capacity Analysis - Cable Management System Revenue Analysis - Cable Management System Price Analysis - Market Concentration Degree Read More Reports at: https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/Farm-Tractors-Market-Size-Detailed-Analysis-of-Current-Industry-Figures-with-Forecasts-Growth-By-2025-2019-03-20 Related Reports: 1. Global Artificial Intelligence Software System Market Size, Status and Forecast 2019-2025 This report includes the assessment of Artificial Intelligence Software System market size for value and volume. Both top-down and bottom-up approaches have been used to estimate and validate the Artificial Intelligence Software System market, to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets in the overall market. Read More: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-artificial-intelligence-software-system-market-size-status-and-forecast-2019-2025 2. Global AI In Telecommunication Market Size, Status and Forecast 2019-2025 AI In Telecommunication Market Report covers a valuable source of perceptive information for business strategists. AI In Telecommunication Industry provides the overview with growth analysis and historical & futuristic cost, revenue, demand and supply data (as applicable). The research analysts provide an elegant description of the value chain and its distributor analysis. Read More: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-ai-in-telecommunication-market-size-status-and-forecast-2019-2025 Contact Us: Corporate Sales, Market Study Report LLC Phone: 1-302-273-0910 Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150 Email: sales@marketstudyreport.com Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi said on Saturday that Egypt would cooperate with Iraq at different levels, especially following the defeat of the so-called Islamic State territories. He was speaking at a joint press conference with Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi of Iraq, following a meeting between the pair and their delegations. The Egyptian president welcomed the Iraqi prime minister on his first visit to Egypt, while offering condolences to those who had drowned in a ferry accident on the Tigris river on Friday. The two leaders discussed matters of mutual concerns in terrorism, and boosting economic and trade relations between both countries. "Your visit is very crucial for all of us to celebrate Iraq's liberation and achievements in its security, stability and the unity of its territory," El-Sisi said. He stressed the importance of continuing to comprehensively work as an Arab and international community towards this threat. "We must firmly confront all sorts of terrorwe must also work on this new phenomenon of the foreign fighters which is considered to be one of the consequences of terrorism," El-Sisi said. Egypts mega-project expertise El-Sisi said that economic cooperation issues have been a high priority, based on the capabilities of the two countries and the desire to benefit from the potential and expertise available on both sides in various fields, especially in the reconstruction of liberated Iraqi areas. The Egyptian president said that his country is willing to share its expertise in the establishment of mega-national projects. He added that Egypt is keen to cooperate with businessmen who have had the experience of working in Iraq in the past. Tripartite meetings: Egypt, Jordan, Iraq A tripartite meeting between El-Sisi, Abdul Mahdi and King Abdullah of Jordan is expected on Sunday. "Our current level of relations with Egypt is far less than what we aspire to as a government and people, thus we are looking forward to meeting tomorrow at the tripartite meetings which will be attended by the Egyptian president and also by the Jordanian king," said Abdul Mahdi. The Iraqi prime minister also stressed that his country is looking forward to partnering with and for the "friendship" of all countries in the Middle East. El-Sisi said that Sunday's meetings are expected to highlight the framework and mechanisms of cooperation. There will also be a tripartite meeting of foreign ministers and intelligence chiefs from Egypt, Jordan, and Iraq on Saturday, a statement by Egypt's foreign ministry read. Search Keywords: Short link: New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- The latest industry intelligence research on the Carbon Fiber Tape market offers a repository of valuable data on the size, share, and growth rate of the Carbon Fiber Tape market for the forecast period, 2019 - 2026. Importantly, examination of various facets of the industry including but not limited to production volume, product sales, demand and supply assessment and forecast for the period, 2019 - 2026 aim at offering business owners a competitive edge over their rivals. The study further conducts a qualitative evaluation of various driving forces expected to shape the future of the industry during the estimated period. Request for sample Carbon Fiber Tape report in PDF format available now @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/sample-enquiry-form/32312 Major Players in Carbon Fiber Tape market are: Zoltek Corporation (US), Teijin Limited (Japan), Hexcel Corporation (US), Royal TenCate (Netherlands), Mitsubishi Rayon Carbon Fibers and Composites (Japan), Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Saudi Arabia), Evonik Industries (Germany), SGL Group (Germany), Royal DSM (Netherlands), Solvay (Belgium), 3M (US), PRF Composite Materials (UK), Park Electrochemicals (US), TCR Composites (US), Victrex (UK), Sigmatex (UK), Rock West Composite (US), Celanese Corporation (US), BASF SE (DE), Cristex (UK), Eurocarbon (NL), Siltex (DE), Hughes Brothers (US) Market segment by Region/Country including: - North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) - Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Russia and Spain etc.) - Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia and Southeast Asia etc.) - South America Brazil, Argentina, Colombia and Chile etc.) - Middle East & Africa (South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia etc.) Make an enquire before buying this report@ https://www.marketexpertz.com/make-enquiry-form/32312 Grow with the Carbon Fiber Tape Market trend The Carbon Fiber Tape helps product owners learn how certain trends will shape the growth of the Carbon Fiber Tape industry over a long term. The study closely looks at the historical price pattern of various products and services and empowers entrepreneurs to form the right opinion about the future trends. Accordingly, business owners will be able to decide their course of action and make a wise decision. Market by Type - Epoxy - Polyamide - Bismaleimide - Thermoplastic - Others Market by Application - Aerospace - Marine - Pipe & Tank - Sporting Goods - Construction & Infrastructure - Others Purchase full Carbon Fiber Tape report through this link and get 15% free customization on the report@ https://www.marketexpertz.com/checkout-form/32312 The study objectives of this report are: - To analyze and study the global Carbon Fiber Tape capacity, production, value, consumption, status (2014-2019) and forecast (2019-2026); - Focuses on the key Carbon Fiber Tape manufacturers, to study the capacity, production, value, market share and development plans in future. - Focuses on the global key manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the market competition landscape, SWOT analysis. - To define, describe and forecast the market by type, application and region. - To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks. - To identify significant trends and factors driving or inhibiting the market growth. - To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high growth segments. - To strategically analyze each submarket with respect to individual growth trend and their contribution to the market - To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market - To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies. Key Points from TOC: Part 1 Market Overview 1.1 Market Definition 1.2 Market Development 1.3 By Type 1.4 By Application 1.5 By Region Part 2 Global Market Status and Future Forecast 2.1 Global Market by Region 2.2 Global Market by Company 2.3 Global Market by Type 2.4 Global Market by Application 2.5 Global Market by Forecast Continue Browse the report description@ https://www.marketexpertz.com/industry-overview/carbon-fiber-tape-market About MarketExpertz Planning to invest in market intelligence products or offerings on the web? Then marketexpertz has just the thing for you - reports from over 500 prominent publishers and updates on our collection daily to empower companies and individuals catch-up with the vital insights on industries operating across different geography, trends, share, size and growth rate. There's more to what we offer to our customers. With marketexpertz you have the choice to tap into the specialized services without any additional charges. Contact Us: John Watson Head of Business Development Market Expertz | Web: https://www.marketexpertz.com Direct Line: +1-800-819-3052 E-mail: sales@marketexpertz.com News: https://www.marketexpertz.com/market-news New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Introduction: Phenolic resins or phenol-formaldehyde resins are the synthetic polymers obtained by the polymerization of phenol and formaldehyde. Phenolic resins possess good physical and chemical properties such as high mechanical strength, low toxicity, good heat resistance, low smoke formation and high thermal stability. Due to such high properties, phenolic resins find their applications in myriad industrial products. From molded products such as billiard balls to coatings and adhesives, phenolic resins are used for different applications across various industries such as automotive, electrical & electronics, construction etc. Besides, by mixing phenolic resins with other polymer, they can also be used in applications like corrosion coating, adhesive, etc. Due to their rising demand from various industries, the global phenolic resins market is expected to register high growth rate over the forecast period of 2016-2026. Global Phenolic Resins Market Dynamics Construction, automotive, furniture and electrical & electronics industry are the major end-use sectors for phenolic resins. The holistic growth in these industries is expected to drive the demand for phenolic resins in the global market. Phenolic resins find their huge application in different wood products, which is majorly driven by the construction industry growth. Construction industry, which slowed down during 2014-2015, is expected to return to its growth phase post 2016. The growing construction industry output is further expected to have a positive impact on the global phenolic resins market through 2026. Moreover, increase in demand for various molded products in automotive and aerospace industry is also expected to contribute to the global phenolic resins demand through the forecast period. Request For Report Sample@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/11146 Volatility in raw material prices is a major challenging factor for the growth of phenolic resins market. With global focus growing towards the development of green and sustainable products, bio-based resins are expected to gain popularity among consumers, which could also hamper the growth of the conventional synthetic phenolic resins market. Global Phenolic resins Market Segmentation Global phenolic resins market is segmented on the basis of type, application, end-use industry and region. On the basis of type, global phenolic resin market is segmented as the following Novolacs (formaldehyde: Phenol < 1) Resoles (formaldehyde: Phenol > 1) Modified Phenolic Resins. On the basis of application, global phenolic resin market is classified as: Wood-adhesives Insulation Lamination Molding compound Others On the basis of end-use industries, global phenolic resin market is segmented as: Furniture Industry Automotive Industry Electrical & Electronics Industry Construction Industry Others Global Phenolic Resins Market: Regional Outlook Regionally, global phenolic resins market is segmented into seven key regions, namely, North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), Middle East & Africa and Japan. APEJ is expected to emerge as one of the fastest growing regions in the global phenolic resins market due to high rise in demand from construction and furniture industry, majorly in China and India. China is expected to remain a prominent consumer of phenolic resins in the global market throughout the forecast period. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC)@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/11146 Global Phenolic Resins Market Players: Some of the key player of global phenolic resins market are Chang Chun Plastics Co. Ltd., Mitsui Chemicals Inc., Georgia Pacific Chemicals LLC, Prefere Resins, Kolon Industries, Inc., Momentive Specialty Chemicals Inc., SI Group, Sumitomo Bakelite Co. Ltd, BASF SE, Hitachi Chemical Co. Ltd., and others. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Chromatography resins are used in purification and separation of proteins and other bio-molecules in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food manufacturing, and environmental analysis. Chromatography resins are of three types, viz., synthetic, natural and inorganic media. Natural and synthetic resins are preferred over inorganic media. Chromatography resins are used in affinity, mixed-mode, ion-exchange, hydrophobic interaction and size exclusion techniques. In terms of revenues, Protein A resins accounted for the highest share of the market. The main driver for the chromatography resins market is huge demand for monoclonal antibodies. Huge demand for monoclonal bodies is on account of the number of growing critical diseases resulting in these types of therapeutics to swiftly gain significance. Biotechnology & pharmaceutical are the leading end-users for chromatography resins and are likely to gain more importance in near future. Food manufacturing was second-largest end-user application for chromatography resins. Chromatography resins are also used in industrial applications, genetic engineering and drug recovery. However, presence of stringent regulations regarding manufacture and usage of this product is expected to hamper the growth of the market over the next few years. Research & development in chromatography resin for various applications is expected to open new opportunities for the growth of the market. A Sample Of This Report Is Available Upon Request @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-274 In technology terms, ion-exchange chromatography had the highest consumption in past few years. Though, affinity chromatography resins hold the key share of the revenue. This is mainly due to the higher selling costs associated with affinity resins. Demand for chromatography resins was highest in North America. However, there is huge demand for chromatography resins from Asia Pacific region due to the growing pharmaceutical industry, particularly in India, China and South Korea. Additionally, the emergence of CMOs and CROs is driving the chromatography resins market in Asia Pacific region. Europe is expected to show steady growth over the forecast period. Read Comprehensive Overview with Methodology of Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-274 Some of the key players in the chromatography resins market are Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc., GE Healthcare Life Sciences, Tosoh Corporation, Merck KGaA, Life Technologies Corporation and Pall Corporation among others. Sellbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/22/2019 -- Latin America Concrete Admixture Market is probable to witness gains close to 8% during the forecast period. Countries including Colombia, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Chile and Uruguay strongly need to improve their infrastructure including roads, houses, bridges, etc. Government in the aforementioned countries are making substantial investment in the construction sector. For instance, in Bolivia, an investment of around USD 588 million has been made for developing a road stretch of 493 km. Several other development projects in the region will advance the concrete admixture market during the forecast timeframe. Concrete Admixture Market is forecast to exceed USD 38 billion. Sturdy rise in the construction sector, mainly in India, China, Indonesia and Malaysia is attributed to industrialization and urbanization in these regions, which is probable to make significant impact on the concrete admixture market during the forecast period. For instance, in India USD 2.4 billion project is currently under progress to build the Navi Mumbai International Airport which commenced in March 2015 and is expected to be completed till 2019. Request for a sample copy of this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1459 Non-residential applications for the concrete admixture market accounted for over 25% of the global industry share in 2016. Non-residential applications include buildings, medical centers, education hubs, retail shopping centers, etc. Rising infrastructure activities primarily in the Asia Pacific will help attain promising gains to concrete additive market over the forecast span. For example, Laos and China signed an agreement in March 2018 for the implementation of building China-aided Mahosot hospital to modernize medical services in the region. Similarly, in China the expansion project of Beijing airport that is expected to be completed by 2025 will surely surpass Dubai's Al Maktoum Airport in total square miles, cost, and plane & passenger capacity. Several other ongoing construction activities globally will drive the concrete admixture market in the forecast span. These products are used in the production of concrete, which helps in improving its properties based on its applications. Several concrete admixtures available in the market are water reducers, air-entraining agents, superplasticizers, fly ash, etc. Concrete admixture market, product by application o Superplasticizer o Accelerator o Retarder o Water reducer o Air entraining mixture o Fly ash o Silicate fume Concrete admixture market by application o Residential o Non-residential o Commercial Make an Inquiry for Purchasing this Report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1459 Revival in construction industry, mainly in Germany and UK for the repair and maintenance of bridges, roads, tunnels, etc. has led to substantial investment in large construction projects, which will have positive impact on concrete admixture market share in the forecast spell. Lack of responsiveness and trained labor, specifically in the disorderly construction sector may prove to be restraining factors for the concrete admixture market in the projected timeframe. Although, projects to build greenhouse gas emission free buildings in Europe and housing projects for low-income group people in India under "Make in India" initiative are sure to bring new and profitable opportunities to the concrete admixtures market in the forecast timespan. Air entraining concrete additive market is projected to witness gains of more than 8.5% by 2024. Air entraining mixture creates air bubble in the concrete which act as rollers and helps in improving the workability. These admixtures are also very effective in freeze thaw cycles and provide cushion effect on the expanding water while concreting in cold climate. The application of this admixture on hardened concrete is quite complex to attain the correct level of air pressure. It improves concrete structure durability by enhancing its firmness and cohesion which will help augment product demand, and subsequently will drive concrete additive market by 2024. Browse Report Summery @ https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/concrete-admixtures-market The major concrete admixture market share is divided among RPM International, BASF, Bostik, CEMEX, CICO Group, MAPEI, Sika, Euclid Chemical, Dow, Cementaid and FOSROC. The abovementioned organizations are spending heavily on their R&D to expand their range of available products. For instance, Sika Group had launched a sustainable admixture named Sika Viscocrete GR 5000 in Qatar in 2016. It is mainly due to the green initiative policies being adopted in Europe to achieve more cost effective and environment friendly construction techniques. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Global Cyclic Olefin Copolymers for Packaging - Market Overview Cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging are increasingly used polymer in the packaging industry. Cyclic Olefin Co-polymers are advanced co-polymers having highest purity and several advantages such as break resistant, lightweight, temperature resistant, chemical resistant, transparent, and have excellent barrier properties. Manufacturers use cyclic olefin co-polymers in packaging of a wide range of products such as medical devices & diagnostic equipment, electronic devices, among others. Cyclic olefin co-polymers for packaging are used as an alternative to glass due to various additional properties such as these are transparent, light in weight, and break resistant. Cyclic Olefins Co-polymers for packaging are commercially used for manufacturing of lenses, reflection films, touch screens, liquid crystal displays, components of mobile devices, and among others. The global market for Cyclic Olefin Co-polymers is expected to grow during the forecast period due to increased use in packaging of various products. Global Cyclic Olefin Copolymers for Packaging Market Drivers & Restraints The global market for cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period due to several reasons. The demand for the Cyclic Olefin Copolymers for packaging market is propelling due to increasing use in the manufacturing of packaging solutions such as vials, bottles, syringes, packaging films, lenses, medical devices, and among others. The primary driving factor for the growth of cyclic olefin co-polymers for packaging market is the increasing demand from the healthcare industry. Moreover, cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging are used in the packaging of electronics, pharmaceuticals, optical, and among other sectors. Cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging are easy to process. In many countries, especially in the Western Europe region, the use of conventional plastic as a raw material has been banned, owing to stringent rules and regulations. For instance, France banned the use of plastic cups. This has led to governments across the world looking to shift their preference towards sustainable alternatives to conventional plastic resins, such as Olefin copolymers, for packaging. Therefore, it is anticipated that the global olefin co-polymers market will face lucrative opportunities for growth in the future as more manufacturers turn towards manufacturing of sustainable resins. Request Sample Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-6031 Despite the positive outlook, the growth of cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging market might be hampered due to the available alternative packaging solutions such as polypropylene, polyethylene films, and among others. Global Cyclic Olefin Copolymers for Packaging - Market Segmentation Globally the cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging market is segmented on the basis of application and on the basis of chemical structure. Application Healthcare Electronics & Electricals Food & Beverages Pharmaceuticals Others Chemical Structure (series) A B C D Global Cyclic Olefin Copolymers for Packaging Market - Regional Outlook Geographically, the global cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging market is divided into North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ), Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle-East & Africa (MEA), and Japan. Some countries in North America and Western Europe regions are witnessed increased growth in recent years. The demand for cyclic olefin copolymers in APEJ and Middle East & Africa market is increasing owing to the increasing disposable incomes and rapid urbanization. The growth of cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging is anticipated to increase in the near future. Global Cyclic Olefin Copolymers for Packaging Market Key Players Some of the key players in the cyclic olefin copolymers for packaging market are Owens Illinois Inc., Polyplastics USA, Inc., The Dow Chemical Company, Stack Plastics, Topas Co. Ltd., among others. Request to View TOC @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-6031 Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- The US$ 3.7 billion decor paper market is likely to witness an uptick by 5.5% in 2019, according to a recent analytical study presented by Future Market Insights (FMI). Print base paper will continue to sell highest, accounting for almost half of the global revenue. Absorbent kraft paper also holds a sizeable share in the market value, however the report foresees a moderate rate of growth in the demand for absorbent kraft paper in coming years. Escalating decor paper consumption by the furniture industry is cited as a preeminent factor determining sales, followed by that in flooring and paneling sectors. Furniture industry prominently boosts sales of low-pressure laminates that are attributed to robust growth of the domestic furniture sector. According to FMI's end use analysis of decor paper market, almost 60% of the total furniture sold is household, which is likely to push demand for low-pressure laminates further. Europe's lead in the decor paper market is strongly backed by the flourishing application scenario for decor, flooring, and paneling. FMI envisages that European consumers will account for more than 30% share in the total market value. However, it also points to the healthy demand growth in developing economies within Asian, African, and Middle Eastern regions. Request Sample Copy of Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-7761 Despite accounting for a mere 4% share in the paper and paperboard production landscape, decor paper market has been observing healthy demand growth recently. FMI attributes this growth to the overall promising trade scenario and mounting consumer preference for aesthetically appealing furniture and decor items. Progressing production scenario of decorative plywood and veneer sheets is benefiting the growth of woodworking sector, thereby favoring sales of decor paper. With visibly improving scope of laminate flooring sector in both developed and developing economies, it is more likely that a range of decor paper will gain ground in coming years. Leading manufacturers of decor paper are currently strategizing on upgrading aesthetics to cater to evolving specification demands from customers. However, the report opines that primary focal point will be on strategic acquisitions and collaborations. Schoeller Technocell GmbH & Co. KG, one of the market leaders, recently announced the acquisition of Calfornia's Alameda Co. The former is also investing efforts in expansion across Chinese market for decor paper by collaborating with China's leading pulp and paper industry operators. Schoeller Technocell recently joined forces with Welbon Group, China's recognized pulp and specialty paper manufacturer. Finland-based Ahlstrom-Munksjo Oyj maintains the strategic focus on M&A, the latest of which is acquisition of Brazilian specialty paper manufacturer, MD Papeis' Caieiras specialty paper mill. As a part of the expansion strategy across North America, the former recently acquired another specialty paper manufacturer Expera Specialty Solutions. Request information about Report Methodology @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/askus/rep-gb-7761 Neodecortech S.p.A. recently completed the acquisition of CORBETTA FIA s.r.l.'s laminate production arm. More recently, Schattdecor Group announced acquisition of the US-based Coating Company of Lexington, SC. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Dry docking coatings are applied during the dry docking of a vessel. These coatings help increase the longevity of the vessel by protecting them from harsh weather conditions, fouling, etc. The marine industry comprises bulk tankers and carriers, cargo ships, cruise ships, and container ships. Dry docking coatings are also considered vital in enhancing the fuel efficiency of a vessel and decreasing the impact on the environment. The new shipbuilding industry is expanding at a sluggish pace. Therefore, demand for dry docking coatings market during ship repair and maintenance activities is likely to boost the market during the forecast period.Based on type of product, the dry docking coatings market can be classified into anti-fouling, anti-corrosion, foul release coatings, self-cleaning coatings, and others. The anti-fouling segment has been dominating the global dry docking coatings market since the last few years. These coatings are primarily consumed during ship repair and maintenance activities. Anti-fouling coatings offer protection to the surface from fouling organisms. Increase in ship repair and maintenance activities in various regions across the globe is projected to boost the demand for anti-fouling coatings during the forecast period. In terms of volume, the anti-corrosion segment also held key share of the market in 2016. Dry Docking Coatings Market offer protection to the surface from abrasion, corrosion, and impact. Foul release coating is one of the popular dry docking coatings in the maritime industry. Foul release coatings are biocide-free and environmentally compatible. Demand for other dry docking coatings market such as self-cleaning and self-polishing coatings is likely to be stable during the forecast period.Read Report Overview @http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/dry-docking-coatings-market.html The dry docking coatings market can also be segmented based on resin into epoxy, silicone, acrylate, and others. Epoxy based coatings are widely used in the manufacture of dry docking coatings. Each of these resins has a particular advantage and specification of use. Silicone resins are largely used to manufacture foul-release coatings as they have the property to create very fine and smooth surface, thus making it difficult for fouling agents to adhere to the hull surface. Deep-sea application accounted for the key share in terms of demand in 2016. Based on application, the market can be divided into coastal, containers, deep sea, leisure boats, offshore vessels, and other applications. Dry docking coatings protect ships and vessels from corrosion and fouling organisms. Deep-sea applications require higher protection during the repair and maintenance stages. Offshore vessels and leisure boats are also among the major applications of dry docking coatings. Demand for dry docking coatings market in containers and deep-sea applications is anticipated to rise due to the increase in marine trading and logistics activities. Deep-sea is anticipated to be among the rapidly growing segments of the dry docking coatings market during the forecast period. Other applications for dry docking coatings comprise icebreakers, research vessels, and riverboats.Request Report Brochure @https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=41072 In terms of demand, Asia Pacific is anticipated to account for a significant share of the global dry docking coatings market. The region is estimated to be followed by Europe. Demand for dry docking coatings market in Europe is rising due to the increase in demand during ship repair and maintenance activities. North America is expected to experience sluggish demand for dry docking coatings market during the forecast period. Latin America is likely to exhibit potential growth for dry docking coatings market in the next few years. Expansion in the maritime industry in Brazil, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa has is a key factor boosting the demand for dry docking coatings market in Latin America and Middle East & Africa.Prominent companies operating in the dry docking coatings market include Akzo Nobel N.V., PPG Industries Inc., Jotun A/S, Hempel A/S, Chugoku Marine Paints Ltd., and Sherwin-Williams Company.The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications. Dallas, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- The Qualitative research study accompanied by ORBIS RESEARCH titled on "Global Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) Market describing the Product / Business Scope, Overview and outlook from 2019 to 2025". In this Research Report provides primary and secondary data for studies, the scope of the product and vendor briefings. The market Study is segmented by key regions which are accelerating the marketization and study is segmented by products type, status, size, trends, key players, market opportunities, application, challenges and forecast to 2025. Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) Market Major Key Players/ Manufacturer included in the Report some of them Huawei, Calix, ZTE, Alcatel-lucent, Cisco, Himachal Futuristic Communications, MACOM, Infiniti Technologies, Zhone Technologies, Fiber Optic Telecom, Adtran, Hitachi Sample Report + All Related Graphs & Charts @: https://www.orbisresearch.com/contacts/request-sample/2412341 The Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) market was valued at Million US$ in 2017 and is projected to reach Million US$ by 2025, at a CAGR of during the forecast period. In this study, 2017 has been considered as the base year and 2018 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON). This report presents the worldwide Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) market size (value, production and consumption), splits the breakdown (data status 2013-2018 and forecast to 2025), by manufacturers, region, type and application. 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 following manufacturers are covered in this report: Huawei, Calix, ZTE, Alcatel-lucent, Cisco, Himachal Futuristic Communications, MACOM, Infiniti Technologies, Zhone Technologies, Fiber Optic Telecom, Adtran, Hitachi Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) Breakdown Data by Type Optical Line Terminal (OLT) Optical Network Terminal (ONT) Passive Optical Splitters Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) Breakdown Data by Application Operators Governments Utilities Office Other Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) Production by Region United States Europe China Japan South Korea Other Regions Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) Consumption by Region North America, United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia-Pacific, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Europe, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe, Central & South America, Brazil, Rest of South America, Middle East & Africa, GCC Countries, Turkey, Egypt, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa Enquire for customization in Report @: https://www.orbisresearch.com/contacts/enquiry-before-buying/2412341 The study objectives are: To analyze and research the global Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) status and future forecast? Involving, production, revenue, consumption, historical and forecast. To present the key Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) manufacturers, production, revenue, market share, and recent development. To split the breakdown data by regions, type, manufacturers and applications. To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks. To identify significant trends, drivers, influence factors in global and regions. To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market. In this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) : History Year: 2013 - 2017 Base Year: 2017 Estimated Year: 2018 Forecast Year: 2018 - 2025 This report includes the estimation of market size for value (million USD) and volume (K Units). Both top-down and bottom-up approaches have been used to estimate and validate the market size of Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) market, to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets in the overall market. Key players in the market have been identified through secondary research, and their market shares have been determined through primary and secondary research. All percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns have been determined using secondary sources and verified primary sources. For the data information by region, company, type and application, 2017 is considered as the base year. Whenever data information was unavailable for the base year, the prior year has been considered. Buy the Latest Report @ https://www.orbisresearch.com/contact/purchase/2412341 Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report versions like North America, Middle East, South Africa, China or Asia-Pacific. About Orbis Research Orbis Research (orbisresearch.com) is a single point aid for all your market research requirements. We have vast database of reports from the leading publishers and authors across the globe. We specialize in delivering customized reports as per the requirements of our clients. We have complete information about our publishers and hence are sure about the accuracy of the industries and verticals of their specialization. This helps our clients to map their needs and we produce the perfect required market research study for our clients. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- The halibut market has witnessed various stages with its demand and relative supply regarding the changing regulations and allowances defined by the regulatory bodies in respective regions. The halibut market is projecting fluctuations in price and regulations, which are expected to impact the demand for halibut fish on a global level. The halibut catch and allowance regulations related to them are major factors influencing this scenario. Halibut Market Scenario in the region of Alaska The increasing prices and declining total allowable catch (TAC) for halibut in the previous decade were hampering the growth of the market, which is now becoming stable compared to the earlier scenario. The halibut market is gaining greater stability owing to the increasing TAC since the year 2017 in the Alaskan region and the increasing demand is resulting in soaring prices with the growing volume of harvest. The halibut market is therefore witnessing changing scenarios with effect to changing regulations and allowances for catching fish. Despite the fluctuating TAC and surging prices, the Alaskan halibuts find their place in the menu of prominent restaurants, whereas the demand for Pacific halibut is soaring in the sea food menu of the fine-dine restaurants. Request For Sample @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=831 Massive Drop in 'Pacific Halibut Catches' Impeding Halibut Market Growth The North Pacific commercial halibut fishery continues to remain lucrative, inducing a momentum in the halibut market around the globe. However, after the recent announcements of a major decline in cod stocks, the halibut market is likely to witness sluggish growth with a significant drop in Pacific halibut catches. At a recent interim meeting for the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) in Seattle, scientists revealed that in 2017, the halibut numbers declined by over 23% as compared to the numbers recorded in 2016. The lack of younger halibut entering the Pacific halibut fishery remains the primary cause behind the sluggish growth of the halibut market. With the fluctuating prices of halibut and decreasing demand among consumers, the halibut market is grappling with some big challenges. Apart from the dynamic prices and decreasing demand for halibut, the negative growth parameters of Alaska's halibut market can be attributed to the increase in Canadian imports of fresh Atlantic halibut. As the halibut catch continues to increase in New England, the Atlantic halibut market may shape up in the upcoming years. However, declining demand for halibut in the seafood industry is still likely to impact the halibut market negatively in the foreseeable future. Also, changing habitat and environmental conditions are among the prominent causes of the significant decline in Pacific halibut catches, which may result in the below-average growth of the halibut market during the assessment period. Request For Brochure @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=B&rep_id=831 Pacific Halibut vs. Atlantic Halibut Fluctuating Supply and Price Fatigue Impact the Market Growth While the total allowable catch (TAC) for Pacific halibut was high in 2016, the catch volumes were observed to be much lower in 2017. Also, following several years of high prices of Pacific halibuts, leading players in the halibut market observe low demand despite the chances of price softening in the upcoming years. Pricing for Pacific halibut is mainly influenced by the increasing availability and strengthening inventories of Atlantic halibut. Also, the International Pacific Halibut Commission could not come to a consensus to set catch limit for halibut, which results in individual countries promulgating catch levels for halibuts themselves. As a result, the halibut market is likely to witness the emerging trend of a marginal drop in prices of Pacific halibut and a rising number of fresh halibut buyers switching their halibut fishery sources. If the trend of fluctuating prices of Pacific halibut recurs, buyers in the halibut market may shift their demand to Atlantic halibut. Even though the prices of Pacific halibut are declining with the increasing availability of Atlantic halibut, it still is a more expensive fish than Atlantic halibut. Higher catches of Atlantic halibut and relatively higher prices of Pacific halibut is causing a fatigue in the halibut market. In addition, anticipating the reduction in spawning biomass stock, the International Pacific Halibut Commission may reduce the commercial Pacific halibut fishery in the upcoming years. However, in mid-2017, Rubio's Restaurants an American brand known for unique coastal cuisines announced the addition of wild Alaskan halibut to its menu. Owing to the sweet, delicate flavor and declining prices of Pacific halibut, it is likely to observe rising demand among fine-dine restaurants as an exotic addition to their seafood menu. Ultimately, leading players in the halibut market are putting efforts in creating a balance between selling Pacific halibut and maintaining value as well as profitability by targeting the seafood industry. Nevertheless, attributing to the tension between the price and demand for Pacific halibut and Atlantic halibut, the halibut market is likely to witness sluggish growth in the near future. This analytical research study imparts an all-inclusive assessment on the market, while propounding historical intelligence, actionable insights, and industry-validated & statistically-upheld market forecast. Verified and suitable set of assumptions and methodology has been leveraged for developing this comprehensive study. Information and analysis on key market segments incorporated in the report has been delivered in weighted chapters. A thorough analysis has been offered by the report on Report Analysis @ https://www.factmr.com/report/831/halibut-market Compilation of authentic and first-hand intelligence, insights offered in the report are based on quantitative and qualitative assessment by leading industry experts, and inputs from opinion leaders & industry participants around the value chain. Growth determinants, macroeconomic indicators, and parent market trends have been scrutinized and delivered, coupled with the market attractiveness for each market segment encompassed. Qualitative impact of growth influencers on the market segments across regions has also been mapped by the report. Egypt extended its condolences to Mali on Saturday after a terrorist attack on a military base in the central Mopti region left scores of people dead and wounded. A statement released by the foreign ministry expressed Egypt's solidarity with the people and government of Mali to combat terrorism and achieve stability in the Sahel region. At least 23 Malian soldiers were killed in the attack. Search Keywords: Short link: Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Induction Furnace Market: Introduction Induction furnace is an electrical furnace in which the heat is generated by induction heat of the metal. Induction capacities range from less than one kilogram to one hundred tonnes, and widely used to melt iron, steel, copper, aluminium and precious metal. The main advantage of the induction furnace is a clean, energy-efficient and well-controllable melting process compared to most other means of metal melting. Induction Furnace Market: Dynamics The key driving factor for the global induction furnace market is persistently developing mining and metallurgy sector, which have resulted in an increased demand for induction furnace across all major developing economies. The macroeconomic factor such as growing industrial activities coupled with up gradation in metal processing & production and an increase in demand for refined metals in many countries is further augmenting the sales for induction furnace. The significant increase in sales of induction furnace due to the growing concerns regarding efficient & effective operations in industrial operations is highly anticipated to drive the global Induction Furnace market. Moreover, considerable growth in the APEJ & Middle East industrial sector and technological advancement in manufacturing of induction furnace is anticipated to create a significant opportunity for the global induction furnace market. Request For Sample @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2974 Additionally, the superior performance characteristics of induction furnace such as fast heating speed, high production efficiency, less decarbonization and decompression, saving materials and forging die costs is highly anticipated to propel the demand for induction furnace. As induction furnace is used to process precious metal, copper, and aluminum melting and also, it is widely used for alloy manufacturing, thus, induction furnace is gaining huge recognition in foundries across all regions. All the above mentioned major influencing features are highly anticipated to drive the global induction furnace market over the forecast period. The key restraining factor such as high cost, need of skilled labor and complex installation process of induction furnace may hinder the global induction furnace market growth over the forecast period. Request For Brochure @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=B&rep_id=2974 Channel induction furnace is anticipated to showcase remarkable growth rate during the forecast period due to its higher electrical efficiency than coreless induction furnaces. On the other hand, among end-use industry segment, the steel segment is anticipated to see gradual market growth over the forecast period, attributed to increasing adoption of processed and refined steel across all major applications. Induction Furnace Market: Regional Outlook Based on geographies, the global induction furnace market is segmented into seven regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, CIS & Russia, Japan, APEJ (the Asia Pacific excluding Japan) and MEA. Among the above-mentioned countries, APEJ is estimated to account for a significant market share due to a rise in the industrial activities in countries such as China, India, Indonesia and Australia. North America is anticipated to witness a high growth in the global Induction Furnace market owing to the rise in mining activities in the region. Moreover, Middle East & Africa is projected to showcase most optimistic growth in the global induction furnace market due to the rise in the construction activities along with an industrial revolution across the region. Europe is one of the key maturing regions that will generate creditable opportunity in the global induction furnace market over the forecast period due to the existence of significant metals. Induction Furnace Market: Prominent players Prominent players for the global induction furnace market are Electrotherm, Danieli, SMS, Meltech, TENOVA, STEEL PLANTECH, Doshi, IHI, DongXong, YUEDA, Nupro Corporation, OTTO JUNKER, ECM Technologies and other key market players. The Induction Furnace market consists of well-diversified global and regional players with the regional vendors ruling their respective regional market. The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the induction furnace market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The induction furnace market report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application and industry. Report Analysis @ https://www.factmr.com/report/2974/induction-furnace-market The induction furnace 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 induction furnace report provides an in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macroeconomic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The induction furnace report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- The latest market intelligence study on the Inert Gas market applies the best of both primary and secondary research techniques to bring to light the growth rate of the Inert Gas market for the forecast period, 2019 - 2026. The comprehensive study covers hard to find facts about the market landscape as well as its growth prospects in the years to come. Most importantly, the research report includes vital statistics about the major vendors occupying a strong foothold in this industry. Besides this, in order to calculate the market share, the study takes a closer look at the selling price of the product across different regions. Request for Sample Copy of Inert Gas Market Report@ https://www.marketexpertz.com/sample-enquiry-form/32383 Scope of the Report: The researcher assessing the Inert Gas market dive deep to unearth intangible facts related to the key restraints, opportunities, and threats expected to shape the progress of the industry during the forecast period, 2019 - 2026. Significant evaluation of other factors such as demand and supply status, import and export, distribution channel, consumption volume, and production capability play a vital role in offering business owners, stakeholders and field marketing personnel a competitive edge over others operating in the same space. All important data are presented in self-explanatory charts, tables and graphic images that can be incorporated into any business presentation. Market Segment on the basis of manufacturers, the report covers: The Linde Group, Air Liquide, Praxair, Air Products and Chemicals, Airgas, Messer Group, Proton Gases, Ellenbarrie Industrial Gases, Air Water, Universal Industrial Gases, Iceblick, Noble Gas Solutions, Noble Energy, Matheson Tri-Gas Most important types of Inert Gas products covered in this report are: - Argon - Helium - Krypton - Neon - Xenon - Others Most widely used downstream fields of Inert Gas market covered in this report are: - Manufacturing & Construction - Electronics - Healthcare - Automotive Buy Inert Gas Market Report @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/checkout-form/32383 The study explores in details about the recent trend fast gaining momentum in the Inert Gas industry due to factors including but not limited to growing customer preference and a sudden rise in their spending capacity. Aspects attributed to the gross margin, profit, supply chain management and product value and their considerable impact on the development of the Inert Gas market during the forecast period, 2019 - 2026 is carefully scrutinized during the research. The research provides answers to the following key questions: - What is the estimated size of the Inert Gas market for the forecast period, 2019 - 2026? What will be the growth rate of the industry during the estimated period? - What are the prominent driving forces likely to impact the progress of the industry across different regions? - Who are the major market players occupying a strong foothold in the Inert Gas market? What are the winning strategies adopted by them to stay ahead in the competition? - What are the potential opportunities for the Inert Gas market for the forecast period, 2019 - 2026? There are 14 Chapters to deeply display the global Inert Gas market. Chapter 1 covers the Inert Gas Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force; Chapter 2 talks about the top manufacturers and analyses their sales, revenue and pricing decisions for the duration 2019 and 2026; Chapter 3 displays the competitive nature of the market by discussing the competition among the top manufacturers. It dissects the market using sales, revenue and market share data for 2019 and 2026; Chapter 4, shows the global market by regions and the proportionate size of each market region based on sales, revenue and market share of Inert Gas, for the period 2019- 2026; Continue Read More @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/industry-overview/inert-gas-market About MarketExpertz Planning to invest in market intelligence products or offerings on the web? Then marketexpertz has just the thing for you - reports from over 500 prominent publishers and updates on our collection daily to empower companies and individuals catch-up with the vital insights on industries operating across different geography, trends, share, size and growth rate. There's more to what we offer to our customers. With marketexpertz you have the choice to tap into the specialized services without any additional charges. Contact Us: John Watson Head of Business Development 40 Wall St. 28th floor New York City NY 10005 United States Direct Line: +1-800-819-3052 E-mail: sales@marketexpertz.com Pune, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Latest Research Report On Satellite Enabled IoT Software Market: Internet of Things is revolutionizing. With IoT, various devices like smartphones and other wearable device are interconnected with homes, cities, and vehicles to collect a huge amount of data, which is to analyzed and processed for even better and enhanced communication. However, devices on ground possess limited capabilities and geographical reach. These devices are confined to a smaller geographical location, and thus, restricts the ability to collect and store a wide area of data. Europe is expected to dominate the global market of satellite-enabled IoT. Global and Regional Satellite Enabled IoT Software Market Research for a Leading company is an intelligent process of gathering and calculating numerical data regarding services and products. This research focuses on the idea to aim at your targeted customer's needs and wants. The report also indicates how effectively a company can meet their requirements. This market research collects data about the customers, marketing strategies and competitors. Avail the inside scoop of the Sample report @ https://bit.ly/2Jj9dDs Some of the key players in the Satellite Enabled IoT Software market are Revlon, Eutelsat S.A (France),Inmarsat Plc (U.K),Maxar Technologies Ltd (Canada),Orbital ATK Inc (U.S.),SES S.A (Luxembourg),Lockheed Martin (U.S.),Space Exploration Technologies Corp (U.S.),Thales Alenia Space (France),Thuraya Telecommunications Company (UAE),. Market forecasts are served for each of the following submarkets, product-type and by application/end-user categories: By Product Types: L Band,Ku-Band,Ka-Band. By Application/ End-user: Military,Aerospace,Telecommunication,Transportation & Logistics,Healthcare,Agriculture. Regional Markets: China, India, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Southeast Asia & Australia. Satellite Enabled IoT Software Market Effect Factors Analysis chapter precisely give emphasis on Technology Progress/Risk, Substitutes Threat, Consumer Needs/Customer Preference Changes, Technology Progress in Related Industry, and Economic/Political Environmental Changes that draws the growth factors of the Market. Any Query or Discount? Ask to our Expert @ https://bit.ly/2Csz8Tl The fastest & slowest growing market segments are pointed out in the study to give out significant insights into each core element of the market. New market players are commencing their trade and are accelerating their transition in Satellite Enabled IoT Software Market. Merger and acquisition activity forecast to change market landscape of this industry. This report comes along with an added Excel data-sheet suite taking quantitative data from all numeric forecasts presented in the report. Research Methodology: The Satellite Enabled IoT Software market has been analyzed using an optimum mix of secondary sources and benchmark methodology besides a unique blend of primary insights. The contemporary valuation of the market is an integral part of our market sizing and forecasting methodology. Our industry experts and panel of primary members have helped in compiling appropriate aspects with realistic parametric assessments for a comprehensive study. What's in the offering: The report provides in-depth knowledge about the utilization and adoption of Satellite Enabled IoT Software Industry in various applications, types, and regions/countries. Furthermore, the key stakeholders can ascertain the major trends, investments, drivers, vertical player's initiatives, government pursuits towards the product acceptance in the upcoming years, and insights of commercial products present in the market. Full Report Link @ https://bit.ly/2TgYPvQ Lastly, the Satellite Enabled IoT Software Market study provides essential information about the major challenges that are going to influence market growth. The report additionally provides overall details about the business opportunities to key stakeholders to expand their business and capture revenues in the precise verticals. The report will help the existing or upcoming companies in this market to examine the various aspects of this domain before investing or expanding their business in the Satellite Enabled IoT Software market. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- According to the latest market report published by Future Market Insights titled 'MRI-Guided Neurosurgical Ablation Market: Global Industry Analysis 20132017 and Opportunity Assessment 20182028', the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period 20182028 and reach US$ 216.3 Mn by the end of 2028. Global MRI-guided Neurosurgical Ablation Market: Dynamics The per capita healthcare expenditure is currently following an uptrend across both developed and developing economies, which has made possible to implement quality patient care treatment options. The growing awareness regarding minimally surgery is expected to fuel the demand for MRI-guided neurosurgical system in the global market. The demand for MRI-guided neurosurgical system is primarily emanating from countries such as the U.S., Germany, the U.K. and Australia due to factors such as enhanced emergency room services coupled with affordability. According to a study published by the Oxford University in 2017, the overall incidence of brain cancer worldwide was 264,241 with prevalence of 5.57 per 100,000 people. The MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation system is more often used for the treatment of brain cancer, hence rising prevalence of brain cancer is expected to boost the growth of the market over the next decade. The MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation system requires a skilled neurosurgeon to perform the surgery efficiently, thereby shortage of neurosurgical workforce is a factor expected to hamper the growth of the MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market. Request a Sample of the Research Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2514 Global MRI-guided Neurosurgical Ablation Market: Forecast The global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market is segmented on the basis of product type, end users and regions. On the basis of product type, the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market has been segmented into MRI-guided laser therapy systems, MRI-guided RF ablation systems, MRI-guided focused ultrasound system and accessories. The MRI-guided ultrasound focused system segment is expected to grow at a significant rate as the use of the system omits the need of an incision, which is required during the surgical procedure. The accessories segment is expected to dominate the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market due to increasing adoption of minimally invasive surgery throughout the globe. The MRI-guided laser therapy systems segment is projected to witness significant growth compared to the MRI-guided RF ablation systems segment, and to reach the market value of US$ 30.9 Mn by 2028 with a CAGR of 4.0% over the forecast period. On the basis of end users, the MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market has been segmented into hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers and research laboratories. The hospitals segment is expected to dominate the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market in 2018 as a large number of patients visit hospitals for the treatment of brain cancer. The ambulatory surgical center segment is estimated to account a high value share of 33.0% of the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market by 2018 end and is expected to account for 30.2% share of the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market by 2028 end. On the basis of region, the MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market has been segmented into North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan, China, Japan and Middle East & Africa. North America dominated the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market with maximum value share in 2017, as MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation system were installed in more than 70 hospitals in the U.S. One-third of MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market share by value is accounted by the U.S. due to increasing prevalence of cancer and rising adoption of minimally invasive surgeries. China and APECJ are the fast-growing regional markets for MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation due to rising prevalence of brain cancer and expansion strategies followed by the key manufacturers in the regions. Latin America and MEA are expected to witness sluggish growth in the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market due to low awareness regarding MRI-guided neurosurgery and lack of medical professionals. Request for a Customization of This Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/customization-available/rep-gb-2514 Global MRI-guided Neurosurgical Ablation Market: Competitive Landscape Examples of some of the top players operating in the global MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation market are Medtronic plc, Boston Scientific Corporation, Insightec Lmt, AngioDynamics Inc, Monteris Medical Inc, and MRI Intervention Inc. Maintaining and expanding international presence is an important long-term growth strategy of the leading manufacturers of MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation system. In addition, the manufacturers of MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation systems are investing in the emerging markets to strengthen their sales and service capabilities and gain maximum market share. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Study papers on Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market and regional forecast Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market top players including are ABNOX, Bosch Industriekessel, EagleBurgmann, FISHER REGULATORS, HYDAC, JORDAN VALVE, Meter Mix Systems, Spartan Controls, Pentair Valves & Controls, Rotork Instruments, Barksdale, Negaban Gas. Download FREE Sample Brochure of Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/sample/19180 The recent report, Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) 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 Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market for the forecast period, 2019 to 2025. To enable firms to understand the Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) industry in various ways the report thoroughly assesses the share, size and growth rate of the business worldwide. The study explores what the future Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) 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 Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market Research Report@ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/checkout/19180 Global Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market Analysis by Application Aerospace Automotive Oil and Gas Mining Industry Others The extensive documentation of the Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) 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 deliverable s 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 customised 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/19180/oil-pressure-regulator-opr-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 Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) 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 Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market across the different regions? 4)What are the challenges faced by the companies operating in the Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market? 5)What are the future prospects for the Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) Market industry in the coming years? 6)Which trends are likely to contribute to the development rate of the Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) industry during the forecast period, 2019 to 2025? 7)What are the future prospects of the Oil Pressure Regulator (OPR) industry for the forecast period, 2019 to 2025? People Also Viewed:- Crude Tall Oil Derivative Market analysis, size, applications, regional outlook, competitive strategies and forecasts 2018 to 2025 @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/37018/crude-tall-oil-derivative-market Flaxseed Oil Market Technology, Specifications, Production, Growth Rate And Forecast To 2025 @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/36664/flaxseed-oil-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+ Maharashtra, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Period Panties Menstrual Underwear Market Summary Panties in American English (typically called knickers in British English) are a form of underwear usually worn by women for Cross-dressing or for other reasons. Most of period panties provide leak-proof protection; some can actually be worn instead of a pad or tampon. Download Research Study With Latest Advancement Trends and Application @ https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request_sample/344285 As of last year, China was home to the world's largest feminine hygiene population of women ages 12-50 at 388,623,200 accounting for about 19% or one in five women in this category worldwide. This population, however, is expected to decline by 15% by 2030 due to China's aging population and relatively low birth rate and is projected to be surpassed by India. The U.S. and Mexico will see modest growth in their populations in this group at 7% and 9% respectively while Europe will see a decline of 9%. North America is the largest consumption place, with a consumption market share nearly 36.6% in 2017. Following Asia Pacific is the second largest consumption place with the consumption market share of about 33%.Average industry gross margin is about 60%, that is to say, Period Panties Project is a good investment choice. However, disadvantage factors and threat such as high price in Period Panties Industry should be considered. According to this study, over the next five years the Period Panties (Menstrual Underwear) market will register a 29.4% CAGR in terms of revenue, the global market size will reach US 370 million by 2024, from US 79 million in 2019. This study considers the Period Panties (Menstrual Underwear) value and volume generated from the sales of the following segments: Segmentation by product type: Women (25-50) Girls (15-24) Segmentation by application: Retail Outlets Online Shop The report also presents the market competition landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the major vendor/manufacturers in the market. The key manufacturers covered in this report: THINX Inc PantyProp Knixwear Lunapads International Modibodi Period Panteez Anigan Uucare DEAR KATE Key Regions for this market: North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Avail up-to 50% discount while purchasing this report @ https://www.reportsmonitor.com/check_discount/344285 Key Benefits: 1.The research report provides a detailed analysis of the Period Panties Menstrual Underwear Market along with the current and future growth prospects so as to shed light on the prominent investment pockets. 2.Information regarding key growth factors, constraints, and opportunities, along with their impact analysis on the Period Panties Menstrual Underwear Market is provided. 3.Porter's fives forces analysis elaborates the effectiveness of buyers and suppliers operating in the market, globally and regionally. 4.The qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market from 2019 to 2022 is provided to put forth the market potential. Have Any Query or Specific Requirement? Ask to Our Industry Expert @ https://www.reportsmonitor.com/report/344285/-Market Overall, this Period Panties Menstrual Underwear market research report depicts thorough overview of the market, which, in turn, will help the industry participants, consultants, equipment manufacturers, as well as the existing key players searching for potential growth opportunities and the stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies in view of the on-going and projected trends in the coming years. Key questions answered in the report include: What will the market size and the growth rate by the end of the forecast period? What are the key industry trends impacting the growth of the market? What are the key factors driving and restraining the Period Panties Menstrual Underwear market? What are the challenges to market growth? What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key players in the market? Who are the leading competitors functioning in the market for Period Panties Menstrual Underwear? What are the key outcomes of Porter's five forces analysis of the Period Panties Menstrual Underwear market? Conclusion: The report concludes with the profiles of major players in the Period Panties Menstrual Underwear Market. The foremost market performers are accessed on the basis of various parameters such as company overview, product portfolio, and do on., as well as the latest development trends 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. 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. Maharashtra, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/22/2019 -- Racing Clutches Market Racing Clutches Market for high-horsepower race track applications and extreme street applications. Carbon/Carbon: Extremely low inertia, high torque capacity, high heat capacity and smooth engagement characteristics. Found in road racing, endurance racing, off-road and high-performance street applications. Cerametallic: Increased clutch modulation through thicker than sintered metallic discs. Provide higher heat capacity through their increased mass. Popular in applications such as rally, hill climb, club racing and street/strip. More Insightful Information | Request a Sample Copy @ https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request_sample/387247 The given Top manufacturers are covered in this report: AP Racing, EXEDY Globalparts, ZF, Schaeffler, Valeo, OS Giken, SPEC, Helix Autosport, Ace Racing Clutches, Advanced Clutch Technology, Tilton Engineering & More... 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 Carbon/Carbon Metallic Cerametallic Market Segment by Applications, can be divided into On-roading Off-roading Enquire Here to Get customization & check discount for report @ https://www.reportsmonitor.com/check_discount/387247 Manufacturing cost structure: The Racing Clutches Market report also studies the manufacturing cost structure and presents the various details such as raw material, overall production process, and the industry chain structure. Every region key factors are provided which is attracting this market towards growth. The report also elaborates on the opportunities the emerging markets of Asia Pacific and Latin America offer and Globally. Important Facts About Racing Clutches Market Report: -This research report reveals Racing Clutches business overview, product overview, market share, supply chain analysis, demand and supply ratio and import/export details. -The Industry report features different approaches and procedures endorsed by the Racing Clutches market key players to make vital business decisions. -Racing Clutches market depicts some parameters such as production value, Racing Clutches marketing strategy analysis, Distributors/Traders and effect factors is also mentioned in this Racing Clutches research report. Key questions answered in the report include: What will the market growth rate of Racing Clutches market in 2024? What are the key factors driving the global Racing Clutches market? Who are the key manufacturers in this market space? What are the market opportunities, market risk and market overview of the Racing Clutches market? What are sales, revenue, and price analysis of top manufacturers of this market? Who are the distributors, traders and dealers of this market? What are the this market opportunities and threats faced by the vendors in the global Racing Clutches market? Access Complete Report with TOC, Tables and Figures and Major Companies Profile: https://www.reportsmonitor.com/report/387247/Racing-Clutches-Market Reasons for Buying this Report: 1.To gain insightful analyses of the Racing Clutches Industry and have comprehensive understanding of the global market and its commercial landscape 2.Assess the production processes, major issues, and solutions. 3.Market strategies that are being adopted by leading respective organizations 4.The report gives specific analysis for rapidly changing dynamics of this Industry. 5.To understand the future outlook and prospects for the this market with Marketing & Price (Price and Margin, Factors of Price Change, Manufacturers Gross Margin Analysis) About Reports Monitor Reports Monitor is a market research and consulting company that provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. To help clients make informed business decisions, we offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across a range of industries including Healthcare, Technology, Chemicals, Materials, and Energy. With an intrinsic understanding of many business environments, Reports Monitor provides strategic objective insights. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer is a vibrational spectroscopic technique used to analyze the crystal structure and molecular vibrations. Real-time Bioprocess Raman analyzers are used to measure metabolic and nutrient concentration in bioprocess in real-time by using the single probe. Raman spectroscopy is most promising real-time process analytical technologies in biopharmaceutical production. It allows measuring both quantity and quality of chemical compounds in the liquid where conventional methods fail to measure. Real-time bioprocess Raman analyzers are used to measure gas, liquid, solids substance and provide real-time quantification measurement for glutamine, glucose, lactate, glutamate, ammonium, viable cell density, osmolality, total cell density and cell viability. Real-time bioprocess Raman analyzers consist of following components: light source, fibre optical Raman probe, spectrograph, detector, optical fibre cable and others. Real-time bioprocess Raman analyzers allow the usage of the optical fibre to measure the distance and immersion probe helps to analyze the liquid medium. This makes real-time bioprocess Raman analyzer more superior in analyzing bioprocess components and concentration changes than MIR and NIR. Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer Market: Drivers and Restraints Raman spectroscopy is used to provide the molecular fingerprint of bioprocessing and biomedical analysis. Along with this, rapid advancement of technologies enabled the usage of Raman spectroscopy in analyzing chemical compounds in biopharmaceutical companies. Other factors like changing government regulations to improve the quality of pharmaceuticals has led to the positive growth of real-time bioprocess Raman analyzers. For example, FDA launched a PAT initiative to encourage the biopharmaceutical manufacturers to adopt the new technologies. Real-time bioprocess Raman analyzers are used to monitor multiple components in cell culture medium and help in the simultaneous prediction of culture parameters. Simultaneous measurement of chemical components in bioprocess solutions, has lead to an increase in the adoption of Raman spectroscopy by the manufacturers. All these factors act as a potential driver in burgeoning growth of real-time bioprocess Raman analyzer market. Request Sample Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-6912 A huge cost is incurred in enabling Raman spectroscopy and it has restrained the growth of real-time bioprocess Raman analyzer market. Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer Market: Segmentation Segmentation based on End User Biopharmaceutical Companies Contract Manufacturing Organizations Research Organizations Others Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer Market: Market Overview Global Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer market has witnessed a robust growth due to increasing demand for Raman spectroscopy in providing real-time data. Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer market has a presence of a few players which have a huge market share in developed countries operating at the country level. There are huge opportunities for the untapped markets across the world due to potential benefits of real-time bioprocess Raman analyzer. The key players in the Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer market are mainly focused on R&D to accelerate the development due to a limited number of manufactures. The future of Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer market anticipated with double CAGR during forecasting period. Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer Market: Region-Wise Overview Global Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer market is segmented into the following regions - North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific Excluding China & Japan, China, Japan and the Middle East & Africa. North America is dominant in the global real-time bioprocess Raman analyzer market mainly due to the high penetration. In North America, particularly the USA is dominating due to the supportive government regulations. Economic conditions in the APAC region are set to drive the real-time bioprocess Raman analyzer market to new heights. European real-time bioprocess Raman analyzer market is fastest growing region due to high R&D investment in the biopharmaceutical sector. Growth in the Middle East and African region is considerably less when compared to the other regions. However, North America would maintain its position in the real-time bioprocess Raman analyzer market, though, we are anticipating developed economies such as Australia to have the highest growth rate in Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer market. Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-6912 Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer Market: Key Participants The key participants in the Real-Time Bioprocess Raman Analyzer market mainly include Kaiser Optical Systems, Inc., Resolution Spectra Systems Inc. and others. Companies are mainly focused on R&D to strengthen product development. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/23/2019 -- Global Sour flavor Ingredient Market Overview Thousands of food products over a wide array of applications from beverages to dairy products from the flavor profile or functional attributes of food products, sour flavor ingredient a family of food additives that gives food products a sour taste. Apart from increasing the shelf-life of food products, sour flavor ingredients are also known to have several health benefits. These benefits of sour flavor ingredient can especially utilized in animal feeds for piglets who lack biological ability to breakdown nutritious food, which, in turn, provide a healthy growth rate for sour flavor ingredient market. In humans, natural acidifier such as citric acid is known for their antimicrobial quality in the gastrointestinal tract. Sour flavor ingredient also helps to lower pH in the intestinal tract and prevent pathogen infection. This, further, improves digestion efficiency and absorption which also fuels the demand of sour flavor ingredient in the market. With increased digestion ability, immunity and health of GI tract increase. These multiple benefits along with the growth in the processed food & beverage industry the global sour flavor ingredient market is anticipated to auger well over the projection period. Request For Sample @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2978 Global Sour flavor ingredient Market Dynamics Urbanizations and modernization in emerging economies have bolstered the food and beverage industry. Changing lifestyle of consumers, especially the millennial generation, is inducing drinking habits to a greater extent. Improvements in the economic conditions of various countries have led to increased disposable income and higher standard of living, which indirectly has contributed to rising trend of premiumization which in turn creating new opportunity for sour flavor ingredients. With increasing processed food & beverage industry, the market for sour flavor ingredient is anticipated to find greater opportunities in ready-to-drink beverages categories. Regulatory bodies in different countries have imposed regulations on using food additives for production of food products. Unless a food component or additive is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), it needs to get approved from the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA). Sour flavor ingredient manufacturers have to conform to food safety regulations for ensuring safety of the sour flavor ingredients and food additives before distributing food products in the global sour flavor ingredient market. Apart from safety regulations, sour flavor ingredient manufacturers have to comply with various other norms such as labeling requirements, services sizes for different packaging sizes, and other packaging regulations, which can curtail growth of sour flavor ingredient in various end use application. Request For Brochure @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=B&rep_id=2978 Sour Flavor Ingredient market Regional outlook The global sour flavor ingredient market can be divided into seven regions which includes North America, Europe, MEA, East Asia (Japan, China, South Korea,), South Asia (India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Rest), Oceania (Australia, New Zealand) and Latin America. Collectively, The East Asia and South Asia is anticipated to witness maximum share in global sour flavor ingredient market owing to increasing proceed food & beverage industry. The North America and Europe have also contributed significantly in global sour flavor ingredient market. Latin America and MEA are anticipated to register significant growth over the projection period. Overall, the global market for sour flavor ingredient is projected to auger well over the forecast period. Global Sour flavor ingredient Market Segmentation The global sour flavor ingredient market can be divided on the basis of type of ingredient, by application and region. On the basis of ingredient type the global sour flavor ingredient further includes Citric Acid, Lactic Acid, Acetic Acid, Phosphoric Acid, Malic Acid and Others. Owing to the wide array of applications citric acid segment is anticipated to register highest market share in global sour flavor ingredients market over the forecast period. On the basis of application segment the global sour flavor ingredient market can further be broken down into four application which are food & beverage, dairy products, bakery and confectionary and others. On the basis of sales channel, sour flavor ingredients can be further segmented as retail pharmacies, specialty stores and e-commerce. Highest growth for e-commerce channel anticipated to be witnessed over the projection period. Global Sour flavor ingredient Regional Outlook and Competition Tracking The global market for sour flavor ingredients is highly fragmented in nature and includes both global and regional level players. Some of the prominent manufacturers of sour flavor ingredient includes Industrial Tecnica Pecuaria, S.A., Tate& Lyle Plc., Brenntag Ingredients Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, Fuerst Day Lawson Ltd., Sab hnub tuaj Foodchem Co., Ltd, Cargill Inc., Batory Foods, Inc., Hawkins Watts Limited and Univar Inc., among various other global and domestic players. This analytical research study imparts an all-inclusive assessment on the market, while propounding historical intelligence, actionable insights, and industry-validated & statistically-upheld market forecast. Verified and suitable set of assumptions and methodology has been leveraged for developing this comprehensive study. Information and analysis on key market segments incorporated in the report has been delivered in weighted chapters. A thorough analysis has been offered by the report on Report Analysis @ https://www.factmr.com/report/2978/sour-flavor-ingredient-market Compilation of authentic and first-hand intelligence, insights offered in the report are based on quantitative and qualitative assessment by leading industry experts, and inputs from opinion leaders & industry participants around the value chain. Growth determinants, macroeconomic indicators, and parent market trends have been scrutinized and delivered, coupled with the market attractiveness for each market segment encompassed. Qualitative impact of growth influencers on the market segments across regions has also been mapped by the report. Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/21/2019 -- This study focuses on the production side and consumption side of Tung Oil, presents the global Tung Oil market size by manufacturers, regions, type and application, history breakdown data from 2013 to 2018, and forecast to 2025. In terms of production side, this report researches the Tung Oil capacity, production, value, ex-factory price, growth rate, market share for major manufacturers, regions (or countries) and product type. In terms of consumption side, this report focuses on the consumption of Tung Oil by regions and application. The key regions like North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Central & South America, Middle East and Africa etc. Access PDF Version of this report at: https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/709461/global-tung-oil-industry Pure Tung Oil is a finishing product that provides a tough, flexible and highly water-resistant coating. It is classed as a drying oil along with linseed, poppy seed, safflower seed, walnut, soybean, oiticica and a few other oils. Although it is relatively new to the Western world, tung oil has been known for centuries to the Chinese, and until this century, China was the main source for the oil. It comes from the seed of the tung trees, Aleurites fordii and Aleurites montana, deciduous trees that are very susceptible to frost damage. This vulnerability has restricted the cultivation of the tung trees to China and South America. Currently, Oleaginosa RAATZ, Wuzhou Oasis Chemicals and Xunyang Mingwen Oil are the leaders of tung oil industry.Oleaginosa RAATZis a global leader. In 2017, the production of Oleaginosa RAATZ was 44489 ton, and the company held a production share of 50.6%. In Europe and the United States, Oleaginosa RAATZ and Wuzhou Oasis Chemicals are the market leader.Downstream customers such as Liberon, AkzoNobel, and American Wood Oil use products from both companies. Tung oil is mainly used for wood finishing, electronic and pesticide. In 2017, wood finishing application held 91% of the consumption market share. Tung oil seeps into the grain of the wood, giving it a perpetual wet look that highly accentualizes the grain of the wood, commonly referred to as "making the grain pop". Because of this, the color of the wood is slightly darkened, giving the wood a rich, warm color that is very pleasing. In the past few years, the production of Chinese tung oil is declining. QYR interviewed the chairman and manager of the major manufacturers. In addition, QYR also interviewed local growers. QYR believes that the industry is not an exciting industry. From 2009 to 2017, China's tung oil production is declining due to the reduction in planting area. For manufacturers, they have spent a lot of time and money for buying raw materials, but the profits are indeed meagre. At the same time, this product is not indispensable for wood finishing protection industry. As growers, they can't get more profits than other jobs .Growers are reluctant to plant tung trees, which makes Chinese tung oil continue to decline. The only benefit is to reduce a large number of competitors. The Tung Oil market was valued at 270 Million US$ in 2017 and is projected to reach 330 Million US$ by 2025, at a CAGR of 2.6% during the forecast period. In this study, 2017 has been considered as the base year and 2018 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Tung Oil. This report includes the following manufacturers; we can also add the other companies as you want. Oleaginosa RAATZ Wuzhou Oasis Chemicals Xunyang Mingwen Oil Qiubei County Shuanglong Oil Jinxing Tung Oil ... Market Segment by Product Type Raw Tung Oil Boiled Tung Oil Market Segment by Application Wood Finishing Electronic Get Full Report Now at USD 5600 at: https://www.qyresearch.com/settlement/pre/40a2b9fd3c4cb585eb66f24d2d5accdd,0,1,Global%20Tung%20Oil%20Industry%20Research%20Report,%20Growth%20Trends%20and%20Competitive%20Analysis%202018-2025 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. Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi affirmed on Saturday his country's support for the World Food Programmes priorities to expand its activities in developing countries, especially in Africa and the Middle East, a statement by Egyptian Presidency spokesman Bassam Rady read. His affirmation came during a meeting with the executive director of the World Food Programme, David Beasley. "The president affirmed Egypt's support for the WFPs priorities to expand its activities in developing countries, especially in Africa and the Middle East, by implementing projects that bear economic and developmental revenue, so as to support economic and social development efforts, maintain security and stability and eliminate hunger and poverty in the world," the statement read, highlighting Egypt's readiness to provide all possible facilitations to strengthen the role of the WFP regional bureau in Cairo. The president welcomed Beasleys first visit to Egypt since assuming his post and hailed the activities of the WFP in support of the government in implementing its developmental priorities in the context of Egypts Vision 2030. El-Sisi confirmed the states commitment to enhance the partnership with the WFP, especially to realise food security and to support smallholder farmers. This is in addition to supporting the National School Feeding Programme, which is considered one of the most successful projects implemented by UN agencies in Egypt. Beasley lauded Egypts diligent efforts to realise food security in the country and confirmed that the WFP would continue to support these efforts by providing all facilitations and expertise to enhance cooperation with Egypt to realise sustainable development and to support the social solidarity programme adopted by the Egyptian government. Search Keywords: Short link: Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/22/2019 -- The extrusion process is used to transform the viscous polymeric media for producing structured products. The twin screw extruders have the capacity to achieve efficient compressing, transporting, mixing, heating, shearing, pumping, cooling, and shaping. The raw materials used in the extrusion may be solids (granulates, powders, flours), slurries, liquids, or possibly gases. Increasing demand from food, rubber and plastic processing products along with emerging pharmaceutical sectors is anticipated to drive the global twin screw extruders market demand over the forecast timeframe. Technological advancements in twin screw extrusion technologies is also supporting the industry demand as majority of the plastic industries are in the phase of replacing their earlier extruders considering 15-18 years of their lifespan. Volume Wise, Demand for Co-rotating Twin Screw Extruder is higher The twin screw extruders market is segmented by product, application and geography. On the basis of product, the industry has been segmented into co-rotating and counter rotating. By application, the industry is classified into plastic, rubber, food and other industries. The demand of co-rotating twin screw extruder is high volume wise as these machineries are majorly used in plastic processing industry. These co-rotating machines are mainly used for the compounding materials where through mixing is the basic requirements. Growing demand from PVC processing products such as profiles, pipes, pallets, film and sheets is expected to support the counter rotating twin screw extruders industry over the forecast timeline. The Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) accounted for the majority of the extruded plastics market amongst Polystyrene and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polypropylene, and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). It has a wide adoption in both packaging and non-packaging segments. Encouraging new product launches in terms of plastics, food or rubber sectors is expected to have staple demand for technological advancements in the twin screw extruders market over the forecast period. Request For Report Brochure https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=40394 Europe Exhibits Second-Largest Installed Base of Twin Screw Extruders North America accounted for majority of the market share volume wise in 2016. The plastic industry in this region dominated the other application segments. According to data published by the Plastics Industry Association's Committee on Equipment Statistics (CES), for the second quarter of 2017, the shipments of plastics equipment which includes extrusion, injection molding, and blow molding equipment was pegged at US$ 335.6 Mn. The region has high consumption of extrusion based food products which includes snacks product, bakery product etc. Processing of such food items in food processing industry requires thermoplastic extrusion which is facilitated by the dynamism of twin screw extruders. Europe region had the second largest installed base of the twin screw extruders amongst other regions in 2016. The demand for co-rotating twin screw extruder is high in terms of volume as it is involved majorly in pharmaceutical, coatings, food and plastic industry. The Germany region is expected to dominate the European industry owing to availability of the manufacturing hubs. Get Table Of Content https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/40394 Amid economic and socio-political challenges, the Middle East & Africa region has witnessed a positive growth in the plastics industry. The World Bank cites surge in industrial output, recovery in oil production and growing exports specifically driven by the GCC countries. The structural reforms implemented by the countries in both middle east and Africa region are expected to produce favorable results for doing business. In East Africa, the plastic demand is expected to grow about twice than the current demand in the next 5 years. The large part of plastics demand is driven by Ethiopia and Uganda as these are the major importers of the machinery and plastics. The west plastics industry imported equipment and machinery was valued at US$ 165 Mn in 2012 and is anticipated to stay firm at the high level. The major competitors in the global twin screw extruder market include Buhler AG, KraussMaffei Group, Leistritz AG, Coperion GmbH, Thermofisher Scientific and Toshiba Machine. The companies are focusing towards achieving long-term growth through innovations in twin screw extruders. An attack involving gunmen and bomb blasts on a complex housing government ministries in Somalia's capital killed at least 11 people on Saturday, including the deputy labour minister, officials said. Claimed by the Al-Shabaab Islamist group, the assault was a sign of the insurgency's continued ability to strike at the heart of Somalia's government, despite years of foreign military support for Mogadishu. The fighting began with two blasts at the gates of the complex housing the labour and works ministries. Police say at least four gunmen then stormed the buildings, leading to a shootout as officers rushed to confront the attackers. "The death toll reached eleven, three of them women, and the number of wounded is 15," said Abdukadir Abdirahman Adan, director of Mogadishu's Aamin ambulance service. Senator Ilyas Ali Hassan confirmed that Saqar Ibrahim Abdalla, the deputy minister for labour and social affairs, was also killed. "I cannot elaborate on how he died but I can confirm that he was killed inside the ministry building," Hassan said. Police official Ibrahim Mohamed said all the gunmen were killed. "There were some other casualties including members of the police," he said, without elaborating. Siege attacks Attacks that combine bombings with gunmen have become a speciality of the Al-Qaeda linked group, which is running an armed insurrection against what it sees as heretic and foreign influence in Somalia. The group emerged from Islamic Courts that once controlled central and southern Somalia and are variously estimated to number between 5,000 and 9,000 men. In 2010 the Shabaab declared their allegiance to Al-Qaeda. The following year, the group were chased out of Mogadishu by the 22,000-strong African Union peace-enforcement mission, AMISOM. They have since lost many of their strongholds but retain control of large rural swathes of the country and continue to wage a guerrilla war, frequently hitting Mogadishu. In October 2017 a truck bombing in a busy neighbourhood of the capital killed over 500 people, the deadliest attack in Somalia to date. Targeting Kenya Among Al-Shabaab's adversaries is the US military, which has killed over 800 people in airstrikes targeting the insurgents over the last two years. This week Amnesty International released a report challening the US's claim that the airtrikes only killed "terrorists." Amnesty researchers say at least 14 civilians were killed in US bombings. The US military denied the report. The Shabaab have also carried out a string of attacks in Kenya since 2011. The deadliest of these took place on April 2, 2015 when 148 people were killed at Garissa University in northeastern Kenya. In 2013, a Shabaab raid on Nairobi's Westgate shopping mall left 67 dead in a siege that unfolded over four days. And in January this year, 14 people were killed in a Shabaab-claimed attack on a luxury hotel complex in Nairobi. Search Keywords: Short link: The two parties will seek opportunities to open ro-pax shipping routes and cruise voyages between Chinas Shandong Peninsula/Liaodong Peninsula and Nampo port in North Korea. The news comes at a time when South Korean ports remain off-limits to cruises from China. New channel for economic, cultural, tourism development In the near future, the opening of the new routes will greatly promote trade and communication between China and North Korea. It will become a new channel for economic, cultural and tourism development of the two countries, Bohai Ferry chairman Yu Xinjian said. According to the letter of intent, Bohai Ferry will also have the exclusive operating rights on the Yantai-Nampo and Dalian-Nampo shipping routes. The city of Nampo will not be allowed to cooperate with other companies on similar businesses. Gateway to Pyongyang Nampo is a cultural and trade port city on the west coast of North Korea and a western gateway to Pyongyang city, the capital. Bohai Ferry currently operates the biggest ro-pax fleet in Asia. It also owns a cruise ship, Chinese Taishan, via its cruise arm in Hong Kong. The ship reportedly sent a mayday call as it drifted toward land, however the crew eventually managed to secure it by anchor, according to the Associated Press. One engine is working, and a tug is on site One engine is reportedly now operational. 'Our first priority was for the safety and wellbeing of our passengers and our crew and In close cooperation with the Norwegian Coast Guard, the captain decided to evacuate all guests from the vessel by helicopter,' Viking Cruises said in a statement. 'The ship is proceeding on its own power and a tugboat is on site.' 1,373 passengers and crew Some 915 passengers and 458 crew were aboard the ship, which is near Molde. People were being hoisted one by one into rescue helicopters. By 8 p.m. local time, 115 had been evacuated, according to Norway's VG newspaper, which said the operation was expected to continue throughout the night. The paper reported winds at 38 knots. 'Small number of non-life-threatening injuries' 'The evacuation is proceeding with all necessary caution,' Viking Cruises' statement continued. 'A small number of non-life-threatening injuries have been reported. Guests are being accommodated in local hotels when they arrive back on shore, and Viking will arrange for return flights for all guests.' Viking has dispatched a team including company owner Torstein Hagen to Molde. The line has posted numbers here where friends and family can call for information. Viking Sky was traveling from Troms to Stavanger when it lost engine power at 2 p.m. Norwegian time. Passengers 'frightened but calm' Evacuated passenger Dereck Browne, interviewed in a VG video, described being frightened and not knowing if the ship would capsize. As for the mood on board: 'People were alarmed. Many were frightened. But they were calm.' He called the helicopter evacuation 'quite exciting,' adding that fortunately, the airport was close. He saw two people taken off by stretcher. Esther Browne described the staff response as 'excellent. They were very good, There were plenty of staff around the whole time, and they really did look after you.' New winter Arctic route The 47,800gt Viking Sky entered service in 2017. It is deployed on a new winter Arctic program, 'In Search of the Northern Lights,' which began in January. See March 24 update, 'Viking Sky has docked at Molde with 20 injuries reported' New Delhi: The fifth tranche of the Central Public Sector Enterprises Exchange Traded Fund (CPSE ETF) has raised more than Rs 20,000 crore over the base issue size of Rs 3,500 crore, and the government may exercise the entire Greenshoe option of Rs 10,000 crore in this current round, sources said. Greenshoe option is a clause used during an initial public offering (IPO) wherein the underwriters get to buy an additional 15 per cent of the company's shares at the offering price. In this case, the government can retain or has the greenshoe option of up to Rs 10,000 crore from the excess subscription received. In the fifth tranche, the CPSE ETF managed by Reliance Nippon Life AMC (RNAM) received subscription of more than Rs 20,000 crore till 5 p.m. against an issue size of Rs 3,500 crore. The CPSE ETF FFO4 was oversubscribed by six times in excess of Rs 20,000 crore. Sources said the government may exercise the entire Greenshoe option of Rs 10,000 crore in the current round of the CPSE ETF. On March 19, the anchor book was oversubscribed by 5.78 times against an anchor base issue size of Rs 1,050 crore and the RNAM had received applications worth Rs 6,072 crore. The CPSE ETF has global and domestic investors such as Merill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Citigroup and ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund. "We are proud to have contributed to the government's disinvestment programme by partnering for the CPSE ETF," said Sundeep Sikka, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Reliance Nippon Life AMC. "The RNAM is delighted with the participation of various foreign and domestic institutional investors such as alternative investment funds (AIFs), foreign portfolio investors, MFs etc., he said. With this revenue generation, the government has surpassed the disinvestment target of Rs 80,000 crore. The order from the Transport Department, dated March 18, issued to Ola operator ANI Technologies on Friday, stated that its licence in Bengaluru was cancelled for six months for violation of conditions under which permission was granted. Bengaluru: The Karnataka Transport Department on Friday suspended the licence of online cab aggregator Ola for six months in Bengaluru for running its bike taxis while possessing a licence for only four-wheelers, an official statement said. The ban order was issued for violating the Karnataka On-Demand Transportation Technology Aggregators Rules, 2016. The Transport Department had impounded several of Ola's bike taxis over the last few months, the order said. With this order, Ola's cabs and autos will have to keep off the roads for six months. Terming the order "unfortunate", Ola said it was evaluating all options to find a solution so that its driver-partners could continue to work in the city. "We have been closely working with the authorities on this topic, responding to queries and making proactive representations to the ministry," Ola said. Armed men killed about 60 Fulani herders in central Mali on Saturday in an apparent ethnically motivated attack, the local mayor said. Moulaye Guindo, the mayor of the town of Bankass, said men dressed as Donzo hunters attacked the nearby village of Ogossagou-Peul at around 4 a.m. (0400 GMT). Search Keywords: Short link: The Islamic State group erupted from the chaos of Syria and Iraq's conflicts and swiftly did what no Islamic militant group had done before, conquering a giant stretch of territory and declaring itself a "caliphate.'' Its territorial rule, which at its height in 2014 stretched across nearly a third of both Syria and Iraq, ended with a last stand by several hundred of its militants at a tiny Syrian village on the banks of the Euphrates near the border with Syria. Here are the key moments in the rise and fall of the Islamic State group: April 2013 _ Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of al-Qaeda's branch in Iraq, announces the merger of his group with al-Qaeda's franchise in Syria, forming the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and expanding his reach into neighboring Syria. -2014- January _ Al-Baghdadi's forces overrun the city of Fallujah in Iraq's western Anbar province and parts of the nearby provincial capital of Ramadi. In Syria, they seize sole control of the city of Raqqa after driving out rival Syrian rebel factions, and it becomes their de facto capital. February _ Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahri disavows al-Baghdadi after the Iraqi militant ignores his demands that IS leave Syria. June _ IS captures Mosul, Iraqi's second-largest city, and pushes south as Iraqi forces crumble, eventually capturing Saddam Hussein's hometown of Tikrit and reaching the outskirts of Baghdad. When they threaten Shia holy sites, Iraq's top Shia cleric issues a call to arms, and masses of volunteers, largely backed and armed by Iran, join militias. June 29 _ The group renames itself the Islamic State and declares the establishment of a self-styled "caliphate,'' a traditional model of Islamic rule, in its territories in Iraq and Syria. Al-Baghdadi is declared the caliph. July 4 _ Al-Baghdadi makes his first public appearance, delivering a Friday sermon in Mosul's historic al-Nuri Mosque. He urges Muslims around the world to swear allegiance to the caliphate and obey him as its leader. August _ IS captures the town of Sinjar west of Mosul and begins a systematic slaughter of the tiny Yazidi religious community. Women and girls are kidnapped as sex slaves; hundreds remain missing to this day. Aug. 8 _ The U.S. launches its campaign of airstrikes against IS in Iraq. Sept. 22 - The U.S.-led coalition begins an aerial campaign against IS in Syria. -2015- January _ Iraqi Kurdish fighters, backed by U.S.-led airstrikes, drive IS out of several towns north of Mosul. In Syria, Kurdish fighters backed by U.S. airstrikes repel an IS onslaught on the town of Kobani on the border with Turkey, the first significant defeat for IS. April 1 _ U.S.-backed Iraqi forces retake Tikrit, their first major victory against IS. May 20 _ IS captures the ancient Syrian town of Palmyra, where the extremists later destroy archaeological treasures. -2016- Feb. 9 _ Iraqi forces recapture Ramadi after months of fighting and at enormous cost, with thousands of buildings destroyed. Almost the entire population fled the city. June 26 _ Fallujah is declared liberated by Iraqi forces after a five-week battle. July 3 _ IS sets off a gigantic suicide truck bomb outside a Baghdad shopping mall, killing almost 300 people, the deadliest attack in Iraq since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion. Oct. 17 _ Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi announces the start of the operation to liberate Mosul. Oct. 21 _ IS militants and sleeper cells stage a wave of attacks with suicide blasts in the central Iraqi city of Kirkuk, killing at least 80 people in an attempt to divert attention from Mosul. Nov. 5 _ The U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces launch Operation Euphrates Wrath, the first of five operations aiming to retake Raqqa, starting with an encircling of the city. -2017- Jan. 24 _ Al-Abadi announces eastern Mosul has been 'fully liberated.'' Feb. 19 _ Iraqi forces begin the assault on western Mosul, taking the city's airport and nearby military base within four days. May 10 _ SDF captures the strategic Tabqa dam after weeks of battles and a major airlift operation that brought SDF fighters and their U.S. advisers to the area. The fall of the dam facilitated the push on Raqqa, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. June 6 _ SDF fighters begin an attack on Raqqa from three sides, backed by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes. June 18 _ Iraqi forces launch battle for Mosul's Old City, the last IS stronghold there. June 21 _ IS destroys Mosul's iconic al-Nuri Mosque and its 12th century leaning minaret as Iraqi forces close in, according to Iraqi and coalition officials. July 10 _ Iraqi prime minister declares victory over IS in Mosul and end of the extremists' caliphate in Iraq. Oct. 17 _ SDF takes full control of Raqqa after months of heavy bombardment that devastates the city. September-December _Syrian government forces, backed by Russian air power and Iranian forces, recapture IS territory on the western bank of the Euphrates River, seizing the cities of Deir el-Zour, Mayadin and Boukamal on the border with Iraq. -2018- Aug. 23 _ IS leader al-Baghdadi resurfaces in his first purported audio recording in almost a year; he urges followers to "persevere'' and continue fighting. Sept. 10 _ SDF launches a ground offensive, backed by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes, to take the last territory held by IS in Syria's eastern province of Deir el-Zour. -2019- February-March _ SDF besiege IS in the village of Baghouz, the last scrap of land the group holds. The advance stalls as some 30,000 civilians, mostly families of IS members, are evacuated from the pocket over the course of weeks. March 23 _ SDF declares the complete capture of Baghouz and the end of the Islamic State group's territorial "caliphate.'' Search Keywords: Short link: 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(0x7f3fe7415d28)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe73302d0)', '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(0x7f3fe7415d28)') 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(0x7f3fe73302d0)') 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(0x7f3fe7420828)') 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(0x7f3fe73302d0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe73302d0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe6f3de90)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe6f3de30)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe6f3de30)') 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(0x7f3fe7836198)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe783b410)', '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(0x7f3fe7836198)') 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(0x7f3fe783b410)') 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(0x7f3fe780c890)') 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(0x7f3fe783b410)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe783b410)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe6f3e6a0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe76bae00)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe76bae00)') 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(0x7f3fe77241f8)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe784e6d8)', '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(0x7f3fe77241f8)') 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(0x7f3fe784e6d8)') 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(0x7f3fe784e6a8)') 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(0x7f3fe784e6d8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe784e6d8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe6f3dd88)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe772dfa0)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe772dfa0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 Prime Minister Theresa May said Saturday the fall of the last bastion held by Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria marked "a historic milestone", paying tribute to British and coalition forces. "The liberation of the last Daesh-held territory is a historic milestone that would not have been possible without their commitment, professionalism and courage," she said in a statement, using an Arabic acronym for IS. "I commend the tireless work and extraordinary courage of the British forces and our global coalition partners that have fought Daesh in Syria and Iraq." Kurdish-led forces among the 79 international partners pronounced the death of the nearly five-year-old "caliphate" Saturday after flushing out IS militants from their last redoubt in Baghouz, eastern Syria. Britain, which has suffered from multiple terrorist attacks in recent years by perpetrators said to have been inspired by IS, has vowed to remain focused on fighting the group and securing the region. "We must not lose sight of the threat Daesh poses and the government remains committed to eradicating their poisonous ideology," May added. "We will continue to do what is necessary to protect the British people and our allies." Britain has committed nearly 1,400 military personnel to the region to support local forces, while the Royal Air Force has conducted more than 1,600 air strikes in Iraq and Syria, according to government figures. Western allies in the US-led coalition are negotiating with Washington on the residual force that will remain after most of the American soldiers are brought home. "We cannot be complacent," British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned Saturday. "Even without territory, Daesh and its poisonous ideology will continue to pose a threat to the people of Iraq and Syria, as well as to the wider world. "The international community must remain firm in its determination to counter and defeat it." Search Keywords: Short link: Macron accuses EU summit of falling short on climate goals Brussels, March 22 (AFP) Mar 22, 2019 European Union leaders failed to do enough Friday to pursue a pledge to achieve zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 under the Paris climate agreement, French President Emmanuel Macron said. The leaders stressed the need for the EU to submit an "ambitious long-term strategy by 2020 striving for climate neutrality" in line with the 2015 Paris deal, which calls for zero net emissions by mid-century. But Macron pointed out the summit conclusions did not explicitly mention the 2050 target. Macron accused his EU counterparts of not only failing to follow through on their pledges under the Paris agreement but also ignoring the demands of thousands of students who have marched in European streets. "I believe today's (summit) conclusions regarding the fight against climate change are clearly insufficient," Macron told a news conference at the end of a two-day summit in Brussels. "We cannot be satisfied with conclusions that do not dare recall that we must achieve carbon neutrality by 2050," Macron said. He added France will "do its part" to achieve the goal as part of upcoming energy legislation. "We are not responding clearly today to the commitments taken in 2015, to the scientific challenges outlined by the best experts, or to the legitimate impatience of our young people who are demonstrating every week in our capitals and elsewhere," Macron said. The summit conclusions said the EU "reiterates its commitment to the Paris Agreement and recognises the need to step up the global efforts to tackle climate change in light of the latest available science." The 195-nation UN pact sealed in Paris calls for capping the rise in Earth's temperature at "well under" two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit), and 1.5C if possible. The summit also pointed to a major recent report by the UN climate body that concluded in October that Earth's rise in temperature must be capped even lower -- at 1.5C -- to avoid the danger of runaway warming. In announcing its bid to strive for climate neutrality, or zero carbon emissions, the leaders also said they were "taking into account member states' specificities and the competitiveness of European industry." This appeared to refer Poland's concerns about protecting an economy heavily reliant on coal and Germany's concerns to keep its economy competitiveness. The leaders stressed the need to reap the "significant opportunities" to create more jobs, become more competitive and develop new technologies in the transition to a green economy. But they added the transition must be fair and socially balanced. Trump drops new N.Korea sanctions because he 'likes' Kim: W.House Washington, March 23 (AFP) Mar 23, 2019 President Donald Trump on Friday abruptly announced the cancellation of sanctions imposed by his own Treasury Department to tighten international pressure on North Korea. "It was announced today by the U.S. Treasury that additional large scale Sanctions would be added to those already existing Sanctions on North Korea. I have today ordered the withdrawal of those additional Sanctions!" Trump said in a tweet. He appeared to be referring to measures unveiled Thursday that targeted two Chinese companies accused of helping North Korea to evade tight international sanctions meant to pressure Pyongyang into ending its nuclear weapons program. But The Washington Post reported, citing Trump administration officials, that the president's tweet referenced future sanctions that had not been announced and were scheduled for "the coming days." The Thursday sanctions were the first new sign of pressure since talks between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un broke down in Hanoi less than a month ago. However, Trump, who has previously spoken of "love" for the totalitarian leader, appears to retain hope that his strong personal relationship will bear fruit. "President Trump likes Chairman Kim and he doesn't think these sanctions will be necessary," the president's spokeswoman, Sarah Sanders, said. Adam Schiff, a Democrat who heads the intelligence committee in the House of Representatives, blasted Trump for cancelling sanctions "imposed only yesterday and championed by his own national security advisor, because he 'loves' Kim." "Foolish naivete is dangerous enough. Gross incompetence and disarray in the White House make it even worse," Schiff tweeted. On Thursday, Trump national security advisor John Bolton had tweeted that the sanctions were meant to put an end to "illicit shipping practices" by North Korea. "Everyone should take notice and review their own activities to ensure they are not involved in North Korea's sanctions evasion," he said. China complained, saying that it did enforce all UN resolutions and opposed "any country imposing unilateral sanctions and taking long-arm jurisdiction against any Chinese entity according to their own domestic laws." This was Trump's second major, unexpected foreign policy announcement by Twitter in two days. On Thursday, he sent a tweet reversing decades of US policy and pledged to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the hotly contested Golan Heights border area with Syria. IS digging roots in Iraq as 'caliphate' crumbles in Syria Baghdad, March 23 (AFP) Mar 23, 2019 With the demise in Syria of the Islamic State's vision of a cross-border "caliphate", jihadists are strengthening their roots in neighbouring Iraq more than a year after Iraqi authorities proclaimed their defeat. In July 2017, then Iraqi prime minister Haider al-Abadi declared victory in the northern metropolis of Mosul after a nearly nine-month offensive. Five months later, he declared IS had been vanquished in Iraq at the end of a three-year war. But security officials say jihadist sleeper cells remain holed up in mountainous or desert regions north of Baghdad or in western Iraq along the border with Syria, still inaccessible to Iraqi forces. These largely rural Sunni-majority areas are located in the provinces of Salaheddin, Kirkuk, Anbar, Diyala and Nineveh -- home to Mosul, once the IS group's de-facto Iraqi capital of the "caliphate". Diehard jihadists continue to carry out bloody attacks against civilian and military targets despite US-led coalition air strikes and efforts by Iraqi security forces to track them down and arrest fighters. "Every day there are operations against the sleeper cells," said Iraqi General Najm al-Juburi, who heads operations in Nineveh province. Iraqi forces regularly issue reports claiming to have killed a number of jihadists during fighting and, since recapturing Mosul, they have arrested "2,500 terrorists", Jubburi said referring to IS fighters. In Kirkuk province also north of Baghdad, jihadists have killed a dozen village leaders just in the past six months, according to local officials. At the same time "they have carried out 55 bomb attacks against the police and on several occasions damaged the electricity infrastructure", General Saker Kawin of Iraq's federal police told AFP. - Inaccessible zones - Now amid the rout of jihadists from their last stand in eastern Syria thanks to a fierce offensive by US-backed Kurdish-led Syrian forces who declared a total victory on Saturday, concerns are mounting that IS fighters will spill across the border back into Iraq. Authorities are desperately trying to secure an area of more than 600 square kilometres (370 sq miles) along the porous frontier between Iraq and Syria riddled with ancient smuggling routes. Iraqi forces have at times managed to repel IS incursions along the border "but in certain areas fighters easily navigate isolated and rugged terrains between Syria and Iraq", a security source said. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the source said these fighters are well armed and use vehicles to move around the desert and mountainous regions along the border. These areas, security officials say, were inaccessible to Iraqi forces well before the rise of IS, and remain so today. - 'Revenge' - After the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein, Al-Qaeda jihadists and other Sunni armed groups dug a warren of tunnels in those areas to serve as hideouts and weapons caches. Such areas are the ancestral homes of Sunni tribes often perceived to be cooperating with IS jihadists by Iraqi paramilitary forces, who have now taken control of the surrounding zones. The continued presence of IS jihadists in Iraq is also taking its toll on some 1.8 million internally displaced people (IDPs), many of whom are tribes from those areas, rights groups said. Driven from their homes by years of fighting and violence, members of these tribes now live in sprawling camps and many are refusing to return home for fear of "revenge" attacks, said Amnesty International. "Revenge is everywhere," said Razaw Salihy, Iraq researcher at Amnesty International. According to her, "the IDPs who are not going home" are doing so because "they fear... their own relatives", family members who either never left or who have chosen to go back to their towns and villages. "They do not believe that their own relatives can be trusted" because in the eyes of some "IS has become a joker card" which can be used by some against others in issues such as land disputes, she said. An April report by Amnesty revealed that women and children perceived of having links to IS and living in IDP camps were denied aid and prevented from returning to their homes. Women were also "subjected to rape and sexual exploitation" by security forces, administrators of camps and local officials, Amnesty said at the time. Salihy said there is concern for the children of these women, describing the youngsters as like "ticking bombs". "The children will not forget that their mothers or families have been humiliated," she said. Human rights groups have also voiced concern about hundreds of quick trials of suspects of links to IS, some of whom they say only testified under torture. Foreign hostages executed under the IS 'caliphate' Beirut, March 23 (AFP) Mar 23, 2019 The Islamic State jihadist group executed a string of foreign hostages under its self-declared "caliphate" in Syria and neighbouring Iraq. Here are some of them: - American journalists - On August 19, 2014, IS posts a video of its militants decapitating US freelance photojournalist James Foley, 40, who was seized in northern Syria in November 2012. He is the first American journalist to be executed by the jihadists. Foley was an experienced correspondent who had covered the war in Libya before heading to Syria to follow the revolt against President Bashar al-Assad's regime for the Global Post, AFP and other outlets. The video of Foley's killing also shows a second US reporter, Steven Sotloff, being paraded by a black-clad IS militant who warns that he too will be killed unless then-president Barack Obama halts air strikes on IS in Iraq. Both Foley and Sotloff wear orange overalls similar to those that were worn by suspected jihadists detained by the US in Guantanamo in Cuba or Abu Ghraib in Iraq. On September 2, 2014, the jihadists claim they have beheaded Sotloff, aged 31. Sotloff had spent years working in Muslim countries before being reportedly kidnapped in northern Syria in August 2013. In the video accompanying the claim, he is shown on his knees in a desert landscape next to a masked man, armed with a knife. The militant condemns the ongoing US strikes against IS and then introduces a second captive, Briton David Haines, and threatens to execute him too. - US and British aid workers - On September 13, 2014, IS says it has beheaded Haines, a 44-year-old aid worker. He had been abducted in Syria in March 2013 while working for a Paris-based non-governmental organisation. The jihadists reproach Britain for having joined the US-led coalition against them, and threaten to execute another British aid volunteer, Alan Henning. On October 3, 2014, the extremist group in a video claims responsibility for 47-year-old Henning's beheading. Henning, a former taxi driver, was abducted in late 2013 after he volunteered to drive into Syria with an unofficial humanitarian aid convoy to help displaced people. IS jihadists then parade another hostage, American Peter Kassig, threatening to make him their next victim. On November 16, 2014, IS says it has beheaded Kassig, 26. A former soldier in Iraq, Kassig had founded an aid organisation in 2012 and taken the name Abdul Rahman after converting to Islam. In a video said to be of his death, IS also says it has beheaded at least 18 men described as Syrian military personnel, the latest in a series of mass executions it has carried out in Syria and Iraq. - Japanese killed - On January 24, 2015, IS in a video claims to have executed Haruna Yukawa, 42. A self-employed security contractor from Japan, he was seized in Syria in August 2014. On January 31, 2015, the jihadist group announces the execution of respected Japanese war correspondent Kenji Goto, 47, abducted while searching for Yukawa in Syria. - Jordanian burnt alive - On February 3, 2015, the group releases a video showing a 26-year-old Jordanian fighter pilot, First Lieutenant Maaz al-Kassasbeh, being burnt alive inside a metal cage. Kassasbeh was captured in December 2014 after his plane crashed in Syria. Jordan, part of the international coalition battling IS, responded by intensifying its strikes against the group. - Norwegian, Chinese victims - On November 18, 2015, IS says it has killed Norwegian hostage Ole-Johan Grimsgaard-Ofstad, 48, and Chinese national Fan Jinghui, 50. The announcement comes two months after the jihadist group demanded a ransom for the pair's release. Grimsgaard-Ofstad was kidnapped shortly after his arrival in Syria in January the same year. IS presented the Chinese hostage as a consultant. In its English-language Dabiq magazine, the IS shows the bodies of two men blindfolded. Chad fire chief of staff after Boko Haram attack kills 23 N'Djamena, March 23 (AFP) Mar 23, 2019 Chad President Idriss Deby has fired his armed forces chief of staff following the latest bout of unrest which culminated in a Boko Haram attack that left 23 dead. Deby fired Brahim Seid Mahamat and his two deputies by presidential decree after six years in the post Friday night just hours after the attack in the southwest of the country. The soldiers were killed after coming under attack from jihadists in the early hours of Friday morning in the deadliest attack on the Chadian military by Boko Haram, which launched an insurgency in Nigeria a decade ago. The unrest has spread to neighbouring Niger and Chad with the Boko Haram revolt to date claiming more than 27,000 lives and uprooting more than 1.7 million people. Friday's attack took place at Dangdala, on the northeastern bank of Lake Chad. Thursday had seen another attack by the group kill eight civilians at Karidi in southeastern Niger in the Diffa region bordering Lake Chad, The area is one of the worst-hit areas for jihadist attacks in Niger. Troops from Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria have been grouped into a multi-national force to fight Boko Haram. Deby's reorganisation of security -- which included the suspension of the air force chief and his deputy -- saw army chief of staff Taher Erda take the top job with a general from the northeastern region of Tibesti made chief advisor on national defence issues. Erda is a Deby loyalist and former police chief who fought alongside the president before he took power in 1990. The air force suspensions followed the discovery of debris from an helicopter which went missing more than a week ago in the north. The sparsely populated, mainly desert region near the border with Sudan, Libya and Niger is volatile prone to attack from Chadian rebel groups based across the Libyan border. In late January, France pounded Chadian rebels who had crossed back into their country from Libya to halt their incursion. EU leaders were poised Thursday to offer Britain a short delay to Brexit but only if MPs back Prime Minister Theresa May's divorce deal next week -- warning that the alternative is a cliff-edge exit in eight days time. Amid deadlock in the British parliament over how to proceed, draft conclusions from a Brussels summit suggest the European Union is prepared to delay Brexit from March 29 to May 22. But the text warns this offer only applies "provided the withdrawal agreement is approved by the House of Commons next week". MPs have already rejected the text twice, most recently last week, plunging Britain into crisis. But both May and the EU insist it is the only option on the table, warning that the alternative is that Britain ends its 46-year-old relationship with the bloc with no plan next Friday. "In the case of a negative British vote then we'd be heading to a no deal," French President Emmanuel Macron told reporters as he arrived at the Brussels talks. May also refused to rule out leaving the EU with no deal, blaming parliament for blocking her plan but saying she was determined to deliver Brexit. She has requested a short delay to allow time for the ratification of her deal if it approved, but said she would not accept a longer postponement. "What matters is that we recognise that Brexit is the decision of the British people and we need to deliver on that," she told reporters. - 'Until the last moment' - May wrote to EU Council President Donald Tusk on Wednesday asking for a delay, to May 30, to allow her to try one more time to get her deal through parliament. But the conclusions state that "no extension is possible" beyond May 22, as that would require Britain to take part in European Parliament elections. May has said it would be "unacceptable" to ask British voters to do this almost three years after they decided in the 2016 referendum to leave the European Union. Speaking before the meeting, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said the EU's offer of a delay would "put it fairly and squarely at the door of the British parliament to make that call". However, there is speculation the EU might still offer a long delay if MPs reject May's deal next week, in a vote expected on Tuesday or Wednesday. EU diplomats previously suggested Britain would either have to leave before the European elections or take part in the vote and stay in the bloc until at least the end of the year. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said on Thursday that if there is another defeat, "then we will have to meet again next week". German Chancellor Angela Merkel added: "We should do everything we can until the last moment to make an orderly Brexit possible." However, there is a chance the decision might be taken out of May's hands. The prime minister had intended to hold a third vote on her deal this week, but the Speaker of the House of Commons blocked it, citing 400-year-old precedent that says the same proposition cannot be put to MPs again and again. May is hoping that the EU summit's approval of fresh guarantees about the agreement will overcome the speaker's objections. - 'National emergency' - A "no deal" next week risks huge disruption on both sides of the Channel, affecting everything from flights, to trade and causing uncertainty to millions of expatriates. In a joint open letter to May on Thursday, British business and union leaders warned: "Our country is facing a national emergency." But May's deal remains hugely unpopular among MPs on all sides of the Brexit debate, with some arguing it keeps Britain too closely to the EU, and others saying it would not keep it close enough. British voters are also sharply divided. More than a million people have signed an online petition in the last 24 hours asking the British government to stop Brexit, and thousands are expected at a march in London this week. Many pro-Europeans support a lengthy delay to Brexit, believing it would increase pressure at home for a general election or for a second referendum that might reverse the decision to leave. But there is huge anger among those who want to leave the EU and do not understand why it is taking so long, while eight of May's senior ministers last week voted against any delay. Search Keywords: Short link: NATO chief hails end of IS 'caliphate' Brussels, March 23 (AFP) Mar 23, 2019 NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Saturday hailed the end of the Islamic State group's nearly five-year-old "caliphate" as a "remarkable achievement". Fighters of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces said they had captured the last piece of territory held by the militants on Saturday. They declared the so-called caliphate which once stretched across swathes of Iraq and Syria to be finished. "The liberation of the last territory held by ISIS/Daesh is a remarkable achievement of the Global @coalition. #NATO remains committed to our common fight against terrorism," Stoltenberg tweeted. While NATO has not had a combat role in the fight against IS, it has provided reconnaissance aircraft to the global coalition to defeat the insurgent group. The state proclaimed in mid-2014 by fugitive IS supremo Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi started collapsing in 2017 when parallel offensives in Iraq and Syria wrested back its main hubs Mosul and Raqa. Trump hails end of IS 'caliphate,' vows to remain 'vigilant' Washington, March 23 (AFP) Mar 23, 2019 President Donald Trump hailed the end of the Islamic State group's "caliphate" Saturday, vowing that the United States would remain "vigilant" against the diehard jihadists. The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces' victory in the remote riverside village of Baghouz, where IS made its last stand, capped a six-month operation against the final remnants of IS-controlled territory that once stretched across a vast swathe of Iraq and Syria, with seven million people in its sway. "We will remain vigilant... until it is finally defeated wherever it operates," Trump said of IS in a statement. "The United States will defend American interests whenever and wherever necessary. We will continue to work with our partners and allies to totally crush radical Islamic terrorists." Trump also had a warning for youths who can easily be swayed. "To all of the young people on the internet believing in ISIS's Propaganda, you will be dead if you join. Think instead about having a great life," he said, using an alternative acronym for the jihadist movement. Acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan welcomed the "critical milestone," but warned that "our work is far from complete." "We will continue our work with the global coalition to deny ISIS safe haven anywhere in the world," he said. "We remain committed to ISIS's enduring defeat and we are confident that we will prevail." Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford, Jr added that "the US military remains committed to working closely with our Coalition and regional partners to ensure the lasting defeat of ISIS." The jihadists retain a presence in eastern Syria's vast Badia desert and various other hideouts from which they could wage the kind of deadly guerrilla insurgency that accompanied the rise of IS. While the geographic caliphate has been dismantled, analysts warn remnants of the group can melt back in to the population while seeking to convert others to their ideology. NATO confirms plans for US military storage in Poland Brussels, March 23 (AFP) Mar 23, 2019 NATO on Saturday confirmed it plans a storage facility for US military equipment in Poland, as the alliance steps up its defences in the face of increased Russian assertiveness. The Wall Street Journal reported that the $260 million facility will be located in Powidz, some 200 km (120 miles) west of Warsaw, and will house armoured vehicles, ammunition and weapons for a brigade. Building work will start later this year and is expected to take two years, alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg told the Journal. A NATO official confirmed the report was accurate. NATO has increased defences along its eastern flank in the wake of Russia's annexation of Crimea and its role in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Battlegroups have been deployed in the three Baltic states as well as Poland and NATO has launched an overhaul of its command structure and is taking steps to improve how quickly it can move troops and equipment around Europe in case of incursion. The practice of "pre-positioning" equipment in strategic locations is also aimed at making it easier to deploy resources quickly in a crisis. Stoltenberg told the Journal the new facility would "underpin the increased US presence in Poland". Poland's government has been beefing up its military ties with the US, last month agreeing to buy American mobile rocket launchers worth $414 million and a year ago signing a $4.75 billion contract for a US-made Patriot anti-missile system. Warsaw has also been pushing for the US to open a permanent military base. Nearly 5,000 American troops are already stationed on a rotational basis as part of NATO operations. Paris, March 23, 2019 (SPS) - Representative of the Polisario Front to France Oubi Boucheraya Bachir affirmed that the progress of the negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario Front, which started Thursday in Geneva, under the aegis of the United Nations on the settlement of the Sahrawi conflict, depends on the willingness of the Moroccan occupation regime to respect the United Nations resolutions guaranteeing the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination. Speaking Thursday evening to the channel France 24, the Sahrawi diplomat said that the new dynamic launched by the UN Secretary Generals Special Envoy for Western Sahara Horst Kohler for the resolution of the Sahrawi conflict is a historic opportunity for the Moroccan regime to advance the negotiations process for a peaceful solution to the conflict, guaranteeing to the Sahrawi people the right to self-determination and will end the sufferings of the Sahrawis who are deprived from their most basic rights. The works of the second round table on occupied Western Sahara, initiated by Horst Kohler, started Thursday near Geneva and will be held on Friday to advance the conflict settlement process opposing Morocco and Polisario Front. Kohler invited the parties to the conflict, Mauritania and Algeria as neighboring countries, to meet at Le Rosey Castle, near Geneva. In this respect, Oubi Boucheraya underlined that during the talks between the Moroccan and Sahrawi delegations several major issues were broached. He notably cited the issues of dismantling the wall of shame erected by the Moroccan occupier to divide Western Sahara into two parts, mine clearance, exchange of family visits between the Sahrawi people living in the refugee camps and those in the occupied Sahrawi territories, as well as the fate of Sahrawi political prisoners in the Moroccan jails. (SPS) 062/SPS/APS The situation regarding human rights violations in Indian Held Kashmir is still the same. Custodial killing of Rizwan Asad is the most recent and most horrible example in this context. by Ali Sukhanver Writing from Islamabad Yes, they proved it by murdering a Chemistry teacher that all is fair in love and war. His name was Rizwan Asad, age 28. He worked at a private school in Awantipora area of the Pulwama district, south Kashmir. The National Investigative Agency of India arrested this young teacher in the second week of March during a so-called crackdown on socio-political and religious organizations. According to media reports, Rizwan was kept at the dreaded anti-insurgency Special Operations Group head-quarter, commonly known as Cargo Camp, in Srinagar. He could not bear brutal violence there and died during the intervening night of 18th and 19th March. Commenting on the brutality committed in the name of investigation and inquiry, a top Kashmiri human rights activist Khurram Parvez said talking to media, There have been several thousand custodial killings and custodial disappearances by Indian forces in Kashmir. None of them has received any justice; it is because of the complete lack of accountability and total lawlessness. The people of Indian Held Kashmir have no trust and no confidence in the investigation agencies and even in the courts. The recent court-verdict in the Samjhauta Express burning case has added a lot of disbelief and suspicions to the self-claimed impartiality of the judicial system in India. According to media reports, a few days back, an Indian court after hearing the case for more than ten years, acquitted four people, including prime accused Swami Aseemanand, in the Samjhauta Express burning case. The court said it could not find any solid proof against the accused ones. It was February 18, 2007 when a train named Samjhauta Express was burnt to ashes along with it passengers when it was on its way to Lahore from New Delhi. More than 70 passengers were killed in that brutality; most of them were Pakistanis, most of them the Muslims. In short, the investigation agencies of India, the courts and above all the government authorities, all have lost peoples trust and confidence. Rizwan Asads brother, Zulqarnain has also expressed his distrust in the concerning authorities regarding investigation of his brothers murder. He said talking to the media-men, My brother has been killed in police custody in cold blood. We want an investigation of it but we know nothing is going to happen. We've all seen investigations for the last 20 years. The Al-Jazeera says, Rizwan's death adds to the more than 70,000 killings, more than 8,000 enforced disappearances, as well as thousands of torture and sexual violence cases in Indian-administered Kashmir over the past three decades. Custodial killings are no doubt a very horrible element making the lives of the helpless Kashmiris more painful and more agonizing. A report published in Greater Kashmir says, There is no record of custodial deaths for 1947-1975.The custodial killings became a routine in 90s. According to human rights defenders around 12000 custodial killings have been reported during the past twenty-six years. According to a data-report prepared by Research Section of Kashmir Media Service, Indian troops in their unabated acts of state terrorism martyred 95,265 innocent Kashmiris during the past 29 years. Of those martyred, 7,120 were killed by the troops in custody. As many as 145,504 people were arrested by Indian forces during the period. The troops destroyed 109,201 residential houses and other structures. The Indian forces personnel molested and gang raped 11,111 women during the period. The situation of atrocities particularly of custodial killings was the same even in 1995. Amnesty International said in a report published twenty-four years back, In the period 1990-1994 more than 715 detainees died in the custody of Indian security forces in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. They were tortured to death or shot outright. In areas where government forces are engaged in counter-insurgency operations against armed groups fighting for independence or for the state to join Pakistan, the entire civilian population is at risk of arbitrary detention, torture, even death. The report further said, Most of the victims are young men, detained during crackdown-operations to identify armed militants. Almost all those detained are tortured: many do not survive; others are left disabled or mutilated. Scores of women in Jammu and Kashmir claim to have been raped by security forces. Now after twenty four years, today in 2019, the situation regarding human rights violations in Indian Held Kashmir is still the same. Custodial killing of Rizwan Asad is the most recent and most horrible example in this context. This all is very much frightening and alarming too. The Kashmirwala said in an analysis recently published on 21st March, After the custodial killing of Awantipora based school principal, Rizwan Asad, his friend, Shahid Manzoor has picked up arms and joined armed-group Hizbul Mujaheddin, fearing physical and mental torture by government forces, as he states, Today, it was Rizwan, tomorrow it could be me. Soon after the JR Constitution was introduced, when progressive forces within the majority Sinhalese and the Tamil minority began agitating to tear up that Constitution, Muslims, instead of joining that movement, took a suicidal path under Ashraf and formed an ethnic party of their own. by Ameer Ali It appears, according to a news report that the leaders of SLMC, ACMC and DPF during a meeting with President Sirisena to discuss constitutional reforms have reneged on their promise to back the ongoing efforts to abolish the executive presidency. Unless these leaders prove the report wrong, their turncoat behaviour tantamount to a betrayal of historic proportion as far as the Muslim community is concerned. Muslim politicians, with rare exceptions, are best known for their opportunistic behaviour. Yet, this act overtakes all previous ones in notoriety. One does not know what personal gains have been promised by the president to these guys. As far as the future of the community is concerned executive presidency will spell disaster when it falls into the hands of a madman or madwoman as warned by Dr. N.M. Perera, one of the most brilliant and farsighted political thinkers the country ever produced. Do these parvenus, masquerading as leaders of Muslims, know why the executive presidency with proportional representation was introduced in the first place by JR, who, after elevating himself to that position, became the midwife of not a revolution, as leftists used to predict, but an ethnic pogrom, which plunged the country into a civil war? The country is still reeling under the economic and human disasters ensued from this foolish war. JR disliked two outcomes in particular of the previous Westminster model. Firstly, a virtual stranglehold that left parties like LSSP and CP had in the Parliament because of their balancing power, and secondly, a decisive voting strength Muslims commanded in about 32 electorates, according to a study by Professor A. J. Wilson. Through the executive presidency he wanted get rid of the power of leftists and with them any voice of sanity in the parliament, and with proportional representation he wanted to electorally disenfranchise the Muslims. JR was so audacious with his newly acquired constitutional power that in one instance, even asked the Muslim MPs in his government to resign and get out if they did not support his decision to invite Israel to open its embassy in Colombo. Soon after the JR Constitution was introduced, when progressive forces within the majority Sinhalese and the Tamil minority began agitating to tear up that Constitution, Muslims, instead of joining that movement, took a suicidal path under Ashraf and formed an ethnic party of their own. The tragic consequences of this move, which has worsened inter-ethnic relations between Muslims and Tamils on the one hand and Muslims and Sinhalese on the other, is now public knowledge. How corrupt, nepotistic and dictatorial that the executive presidency of Mahinda Rajapaksa operated between 2009 and 2015 in particular, and how economically ruinous and politically scandalous that it became under Sirisena is now history. This is hard evidence strengthening the case for its abolition altogether. At last, with JVP taking a lead, supported by TNA and other progressive elements in other parties there is a fresh move to abolish this presidential system. This should be a relief to the Muslim community and even to upcountry Tamils. SLMC and ACMC having declared earlier that they would support that move has now become turncoats. DPF has also joined these turncoats. What made these opportunists cross fence? Obviously, President Sirisena, dreaming that he would be the joint SLPP-SLFP candidate at the next Presidential Election, must have promised something personally very attractive for the leaders of these two rumps of a political party to change minds. When GR topples Sirisena as the preferred JO nominee and gets elected as the new executive president, it will be too late for these opportunists to change their minds again. I am sure they will be too eager to fall on GRs feet begging for positions and perks. Why are they mortgaging the community for personal gains? This demonstrates further how acephalous Muslim politics has become. All but one of the Muslim parliamentarians who are now claiming to be members of SLMC and ACMC entered Parliament through the UNP door. They knew then that their rumps would have been wiped out by Muslim voters had they dared to contest under their respective party labels. As ministers they, their families and cronies have done extremely well in terms of amassing economic and financial fortunes, while poverty, unemployment and homelessness keep majority of Muslims excruciatingly depressed. Nepotism and avarice rule SLMC and ACMC. Even earlier generations of Muslim politicians behaved blatantly opportunistic when it came to party affiliation. At least they did it to win more favours to their community under any regime that ruled the nation. Very few of them were as flagrantly corrupt as the bulk of the current crop of Muslim politicians. Can any of these new bunch list out what they have achieved so far to improve the living conditions of the Muslim community? Any improvement thus achieved is not because of these politicians but in spite of them. It is better for the community to be represented by a patriotic, caring and enlightened Sinhalese or Tamil than by unscrupulous and self-seeking Muslim parliamentarians. It is time the community looks for a new generation of patriotic and farsighted Muslim leadership. (The writer is attached to the School of Business and Governance, Murdoch University, Western Australia.) English22/03/2019 BIH WILL ASK CROATIA NOT TO DISPOSE NUCLEAR WASTE AT BORDER SARAJEVO, March 22 /SRNA/ - The BiH Presidency will ask Croatia to exclude Trgovska Gora in the municipality of Dvor, near the border with BiH, as a location intended for the disposal and storage of radioactive and nuclear waste. Croatia is required to provide another adequate location for the storage of radioactive and nuclear waste in its territory, which is not near the border with BiH, reads the conclusion adopted today by the Presidency of BiH. BiH Presidency Chairman Milorad Dodik will send a letter to the president and prime ministers of Croatia, Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic and Andrej Plenkovic, in order to inform them on the aforementioned BiHs request. With this conclusion, which is submitted to the media, the BiH Presidency entrusts caretaker Ministry of Foreign Affairs of BiH to inform through the diplomatic and consular missions the EU Member States and international organisations dealing with environmental issues, on the above mentioned issue and the BiHs request. Within its competences, the BiH Presidency is going to insist on full protection of all the rights that BiH is entitled to under the rules and norms of international law. According to the National Programme for implementing the strategy for disposal of radioactive waste, used sources and nuclear fuel, adopted by the Government of Croatia, a radioactive waste disposal site is planned to be built on Trgovska Gora in Cerkezovac, the municipality of Dvor, at the very border with BiH. The strategy stipulates disposal of all current and future medical and non-medical radioactive waste in Croatia, including a part of the waste from the Krsko Nuclear Power Plant in Croatia. On May 27, 2016, the House of Peoples of the BiH Parliamentary Assembly adopted the Resolution on non-acceptance of the construction of storage and landfill of radioactive waste, used sources and nuclear fuel and opposing the activities related to the construction of the warehouse and landfill on Trgovska Gora. /end/vos